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S;  '.I  ■  -  "i 


■"'(I 


F«>R  THE 


Farm,  Garden,  and  Household 


“Agriculture  is  the  most  Healthful,  the  most  Useful,  the  most  Noble  Employment  of  Man.”— Washington. 


VOOTME  TWEWTY“F01JR-r0Il  THE  YEAK  18@5. 

SMITHSOMAN  INSTITUmil 

WAsummii  2S.  o.^ 


'  NEW-YORK: 

PUBLISHED  BY  ORANGE "  JUDD  &  CO, 

4  1  2^0  "W* 


JOHN  A.  GRAY  i  GREEN,  PRtNTERS,  16  AND  18  JACOB  STHEST,  NEW-YORK. 


& 


©r  ¥®1L 


lijiri 


j(!ig=2’Ae  stars  (*)  in  the  follow¬ 
ing  Index  show  where  engrav¬ 
ings  occur,  and  Ihe'prejixed figures 
the  number  in  the  article.  Arti¬ 
cles  referring  directl y  or  indirectl y 
to  Bees,  Cattle,  Insects,  Manures, 
Trees,  Weeds,  etc.,  will  be  found 
indexed  udder  these  general  heads. 


Acre— One  Enough . 47 

AdvertiseineiUs-Eiidorsing,  304 
— Interesting,  69 — Noticing, 

333— Wlio  Read? . tiCO 

Advertisers — Note  to.  103 — Re¬ 
liable,  204— Unreliable, . 67 

Advertising — Notes  on . 40 

Advice  asked  and  Given,..  ..310 

Advice — Good . 336 

Ag’l  Colleges  at  South,  303 — 
Departmen  t, 5-71-145-232-303- 
311— Department  Report,  7- 

237— Society,  N.  A' . 69 

Agriculturist — Loaning, . 143 

A griculturist — New  Terms,. .239 

Ammobium — Starling,  . . 71 

Anemone — Wood,  .... _ *..122 

Animals — Well  Bred . 344 

Animals — Traps  for . 365 

Apple  Blossom  Double,  271 — 
Sauce  —  Economy.  54 - 88 — 
Sweet,  Sour,  336 — Tree,  Pro¬ 
lific,  6 —Trees,  Diseased,  142 

Trees,  Trimming . 173 

Apples — Early  Bearing,  84— 
For  Hogs,  36 — For  Iowa,  6 — 
The  Porter,  *  315 — Unstring¬ 
ing .  54 

Articles — Republishing . 204 

Aslies  for  Fruit  Trees . 271 

Asparagus  — Ashes  for  38  — 
Bunches,  6— Culture,  117— 

Planting . 205 

Asphodel  Described . 7 

Autumn  Leaves  and  Fruits. .  .315 
Azalea  —  Fine . 205 

S 

Bachelor  in  the  Household. . .  .87 

Bachelor’s  Wish  Realized _ 158 

Barley  on  Light  Soil . 36 

Barn  Door — Fastening _ *..369 

Barn — Illinois, . *. .  12 

Barn  Plan— Premium . 239 

Barnum's  Museum . 5 

Barnum’s  Museum  Burned... 239 

Barn  ATard — Good . 306 

Basket — Talk  About . 364 

Battle-Field  — Virginia _ 2*.  .207 

Beans— Colored,  143 — Concord 
71 — Culture  of  150 — for  Bak¬ 
ing  0— Varieties, . 4  *. .  154 

Beech  Leaves — Large . 6 

Beef  for  Soldiers  107-142 — Gov¬ 
ernment  Contracts,  206  — 

Price  of . 206 

Bees.  Calendar  for  Jan.,  2 — 
Feb.,  34 — March.  67 — April, 
104— May,  140 — June,  172 — 
July,  204 — Aug.,  336 — Sept., 
*67— Oct.,  29b— Nov.,  331— 

Dec . . 362 

••es— Burying  in  AVinter.*..174 
*<275 — How  to  Hive  144 — Ital¬ 
ian  Hardy  238 — Italian  Prof¬ 
itable  4 — Italianizing  43 — 238 

— Prolific  .Queen . 302 

Beet — Large . 6 

Benne  or  Sesame . * . .  106-348 

Bells  for  Dogs . 339 

Birils  and  Strawberries . 173 

Birds— Snowy  Owl . *..13 

Black  Board — Kitchen  . 88 

Black  Currants— Improving. .  I(t6 

Black  Knot . 156-239 

Blackberry— Cutleaved,7—Kit- 
tatinny  284 — Root  Medicine, 
20fi-Syrup,254 — Vines,  Killing 
301-Wilson’s  Early  237-Winc.251 

Bla{lder  Nut  Tree  . 2  *..153 

Bog  Land — Reclaiming..  76-147 

Bone  Charcoal . 302 

Bones— Breaking  Up  201— Dis¬ 
solving  174— Uses,  174-204-306 

Bonnets- Chapter  on . 3*.. 21 

Books — American  Weecls,  7 — 
Bradbury’s  Golden  Censer, 
365  —  Burr’s  Vegetables, 
174  —  Cotton  Manual,  5  — 
Downing’s,  141  —  17,3  — 
Farmer’s  Manual,  5— Flax 
iind  Hops,  105 — For  House¬ 
keepers,  335— Pood  of  Ani¬ 
mals,  70— Horse  Doctor,  5— 

In  Farmers’  Families,  22— 
Mothers’  Al|)habet,  143— Nur¬ 
sery  Culture,  6 — On  Insects, 
•335 — Rabbit.s.  5— Songs  of 
Seven  365 — S.  S.  Lessons, 
37-307  —  The  Great  AVest, 
.367  —  Wet  Davs  at  Edge- 
wood, 37 — Woodward’s  Coun¬ 
try  Homes,  107— Zoology..  .307 


Boot  Legs— Use,  for. . . . . SIS 

Boots  and  Shoes — Greasing. ..  382 

Bottles— Care  of . 39 

Bottles — Cleaning . 54 

Bovs  AND  Girls’  Columns. 

Accounts— Keeping,25-^S9 — Ad¬ 
vice  for  Boys,  159 — Apples — 
Good  and  Bad,  256 — April— 
Thoughts  on,  125  —  Aik- 
wright’s  Invention,  256 — Bal¬ 
ance,  Keeping,  *160 — Benev¬ 
olence  Defined,  *  250 — Bible 
Questions,  384  —  Birds, 

Friendly,  125-224 — Bragging, 

89 — Bread,  Small  Loaf,  ‘24 — 
Boy  in  a  Predicament,  225 — 
Carlo’s  Portrait,  *24 — Chase, 
Portrait  of,  320  —  Chicken, 
Hurt,  255  —  Cliildren  Left 
Alone,  *  192— Cliild’s  Ques¬ 
tion,  22.3 — Chinese  Story,  351 
— Christmas  Tree  Party,*  384 
— Colored  Men  in  .Army.  55 — 
Customer,  Sliai  p,24 — Di  eam, 
Useful,  90 — Dreams,  Belief 
in,  55 — Dog,  Trustwortliy,3.52 
Drunkard  Cured,  89— Elm, 
Fate  of,  90— Enjoyments  at 
Home,  *319— Feb.  14th,  Wo¬ 
man’s  Day,  191—  Ferment, 
Definition,  191 — Fire,  Ways 
of  Getting,  225— 287— Fisher¬ 
man's  Return,  *  56 — Flag  in 
Baltimore,  250 — Frightened 
Workman,  351 — Frog  Race, 

*  28S — Games,  I'ireside,  56 — 
Glass,  Damaged,  125 — God’s 
Organ,  25 — Good  Boy  Want¬ 
ed,  192 — Good  Nature,  Pre¬ 
serving,  191  —  Hair,  Some¬ 
thing  -About, 159  -Happy  New 
A'ear,  23  — Harry’s  Successful 
ElTort,120 — Hen,  Calculating, 
224 — Hints  for  Boys  and  Girls, 
125— Holiday  In-door  Games, 

383 —  Honesty  the  Best  Policy, 
351— Indian  Tr.aditions,  192— 
Judge’s  Experiment.  288 — 
Keeping  the  Mouth  Shut,  2* 

23 —  Kind  Act  Rewardeil,  320 
—  Laborer,  Witty,  160— Land¬ 
scape,  Curious,  2  *  256-320 — 
Last  Day  of  the  A'ear,  382 — 
Lesson  for  All,  351-Lincoln’s 
Sympathy,  255— Lively  Out¬ 
door  Games,  385 — Locomotive 
The  First,  19'2 — Loving  and 
Leaning,  55 — .Mother,  Cldld’s 
Regard,  159— Mother’s  Hand, 
*126-MusicalIustrument,Pro- 
per,  255 — Names,  Publishing, 

89 —  Neighbors  on  the  Farm, 

159 — NewYork  atNight.lOO — 
Noble  Example,  287 — Organ 
Grinder  and  Pet,*90— Parting 
witli  Old  Friend,  384 — Peach, 
Valuable,  351  —  Petroleum, 
Selling  Farm,  55— Pictures, 
Making,  *  24— Pies,  Tough, 

90—  Play  of  Charades,  12.3 — 
Postage,  Evading.  319— Pre¬ 
miums  for  Children,  351 — 
Prisoner  and  Birds,  '*  288- 
Profanity,  Avoid,  12.5— Puz¬ 
zles,  ■*  23—2  *  55—2  *  89—4* 
125—4  *  159—3  *  191—2  *  223 
3*  255—2  *  287—2  *  319--*351 
3  *  333-384  -Railroail, Under¬ 
ground,  24 — Rat,  Cunnitfg'HaSv''  I 
—Read  with  Profit, SlS-i-dtkid,'  - 
Glorious,  *352 — Rogues  Out- 
wilted,  2S8— School,  Hints»*w 
for, 351 — Selfishness  Reward¬ 
ed,  159— Sewing  Machines. 
Sketch  of  the  Inventor, 

320 — Sheridan  and  his  Sol¬ 
diers,  55 —  Shortening  Tall 
.Man,  *  160 — Signaling  in  the 
Army,  382 — Skaters,  Hints  to 

24 —  Sleep,  Something  About, 

192 — Soldier,  Force  of  Habit, 

384 —  Soldiers’  Return,  *  224 

— Stain  on  the  Carpet,  66 — 
Stitch  in  Time,  *  320 — Stock¬ 
ing  Frame  Invention,  288 — 
Switch  Tender,  Heroic,  90 — 
Telegraphs,  Ancient,  352 — 
Tipsy  Officer,  25— Tr.adition, 
German,  *  256— Traditions, 
Early,  223— Truthfulness  of 
a  Hero, 287— AVall  Street,  Fly 
Market,  192  — War  Ended, 
Good  News,  159  —  Weak 
Points,  126— Weights  and 
Measures,  319 — Wind,  Why 
it  Blows,  89  —  Windmill, 
Amu.sing,  *319— Work,  Mak¬ 
ing  Easy . 223 

Brandy  for  Sorghum . 336 

Breail,  etc.— Wlietiten  Meal, 254 
Good,  53 — Picloruil  History. 
.  3  *. .153-248-376 

Breeding  In-and-in . 279 

Bridges— Rustic . *..185 

Broccoli  Heading . 206 


Broom  Corn  Culture,  113-205— 
Dwarf,  70 — Harvesting,  3o7— 

Planting,  182— Price  . 38 

Bucktliorn  Seeds . 142 

Buckwheat— Cultivation,  183— 
Harvesting,  *  275-310 — Stor¬ 
ing,  343 — Straw  Mulch,  30-2— 

Wild .  6-175 

Buffalo— East  Indian . *..9 

Bulbs — Calaiogues,  303— Culti¬ 
vation,  71— Spring  Flowering 

2  *316— Treatment.* . .....38 

Busliel— Contents  of . 303 

Butter — Preserviiig,  142 — Pure, 

190-Color . 22 

Butternut  Ornaments . *..349 

Buttonwoods — Diseased . 205 

C 

Cabbages  —  Club-fooled,  6  — 
Culture, ISO — Fine. 303 — Notes 
on,  121 — Raising  Seed,  237 — 
Trouble,  .367 — Wintering  ..311 
Camellias — Fine, 71-1 43 — New, 

72 — Management . 7 

Canary  Seed — Growing . 7 

Canada  Tliistles  . 6-7C-205 

Candles — Good . 124 

Candles  — Lighting . 22 

Capers  Described . *..285 

Cardinal  Flower, . *..348 

Carpets — Management  of. ....  124 

Carpets  — Suggestions .  157 

Carrots — Cull ure,179 — for  Hor¬ 
ses,  6— Jlowing  Tops,  141 — 
On  Heavy  Soil,  151 — AVild, 

Subduing . . . 206 

Carving  Instructions..*.  .287-381 

Castrating  Calves,  etc . 178 

Catalogues  Received,  37-69- 

107-174-239-271-299-365 . 

Cattle— Breaking  Steers,  36 — 
Breeders  Ass’n,69 — Bone  Dis¬ 
ease,  174 — Cure  for  Plague, 
270— For  Milk,  42— For  La¬ 
bor,  77 — How  much  Hay,  113 
— Inspecting,  *  344 — Killing, 
Breeding,'!!! — Native  Breed, 

70 — Of  So.  A.sia,*9 — Prevent¬ 
ing  Hoove,  21 1  —  Price  of 
Ayrshiies,  .36 — Russian  Mur¬ 
rain,  267 — Turning  A’'oke,  70 
— Selecting  for  Special  Use, 
1(1- Versus  Hog  Raising,  140 

— Warbles  . 113 

Cauliflowers — AVintering.  .71-311 

Celery  Culture . 3*.. 218 

Cement — Glass  Lamp . 124 

Cemetery — Woodlawn _ ...  37 

Chair — Home-made..  . *.  86 

Cheese — Coloring,  221 — Exhi¬ 
bition,  267 — Factories,  *  340 — 
From  Few  Cows,  189-318 — 
Keeping,  4 — Makers’  Ass’n...  5 

Chemist — Analytical .  271 

Chestnuts — Improved . *.  .377 

Children — Fault-finding . 190 

Chipmucks — Keep’g  fr’mCornl74 

Churn — Best . 237 

Cider — Keeping  Sweet,  106-367 

—.Making,  304— Mill . 206 

Cinnamon  and  Cassia _ 3*.  349 

Cions — Keeping  . 38 

Cions— AVhen  to  Cut . 81 

Cistern — Ice  Water . 38 

Citron  Described  . 2*.. 221 

Clay  Lands — Treatment . 214 

Cl, ay  Soil — Draining . 302 


214 

Cloflies  Wfingei^".'.'.'. .' . 205 

Clover — Curing,  151-214 — Four¬ 
leaved,  39--Raising  Seed,  182 

AVith  Oats  . 39-70 

Coal  Ashe.s — AValks . 48 

Coal  Tar  for  Stakes,  etc . 5 

Codfish — How  to  Cook .  382 

Coffee — M  assacluisetts _ 38-106 

Coleus  Verschafeltii . 377 

Colleges —  Agricultural,  37 — 
Mass.  Ag’l,  7 — Micliigan  Ag’l, 

36— Penn.  ,Ag'l  . 7 

Columbine  Seeds  Poison . 303 

Columbines  Described ....*..  156 

Colls — Halter-breaking . 181 

Complaints  of  Dealers . 173 

Contributions  AVanled . 8 

Conundrum — Original . 5 

Convolvulus  minor . *..188 

Cooking  Academy . .  . 153 

Cooking — Economical  . . ,53 

Cork  Oak  Tree . 100 

Corn  Cribs — Measuring,  330 — 
Fine,  70  —  Fodder,  Binding, 
*343 — Fodder,  Curing,  204- 
278  —  Fodder  —  Cutting  up, 
371-  Fodder  in  Minn.  4 — 
Ground, Plowing.  11.3-  Husks 
AA’anted,  143 — Manuring.  178 
— Marker.  Best,  *  149— Pre¬ 
serving  Green,  286 — Repel¬ 
ling  Clu'prnucUs,  174 — Select¬ 
ing  Seeu.i ’.‘2— Shelling  Green 
318— Small  Variety,  *  51 — 


Syrup,  14'2— Tall,  303— Tar¬ 
ring  Seed,  150— Thinning,178 
— To  Husk  Quickly,  *  338 — 

Wyandot  Drying . 286 

Cornell  University . . . 175 

Colton  Goods  Dear . 304 

Cotton  Alanual  . . 5 

Cows — Alderney  Profitable, 
366 — Caked  Bag  38  —  Calv¬ 
ing  Time,  116— Cleanly  Milk¬ 
ing,  4— Double  Teats,  237 — 
Feeding  for  Milk,  4— Gesta¬ 
tion,  174 — Kicking,  38-142 — 
Leaky  Teats,  238  —  Self¬ 
milking,  *  70-335— Spaying, 
114 — Stripping,  366 — AVarts...4 

Cranberry  Cultivation _ 250-271 

Cranberries — Upland. 6-39-71-121 

Cranberries,  Fine . 367 

Cream — Frozen . 124 

Curious  Growdhs .  3*. .49 

Currant  AVorms,  187-237-303 — 
Black  Naples, 37-71-Dried, 238 
Large,  237 — Planting,  121 — 
Preserving,  222 — Varieties, 

Culture, . 3*. .281 

Cuttings  in  Autumn . 336 

Dahlia  Seeds — Sowing . 303 

Dandelion— Uses  of . *..189 

Daphne  Mezereum. . . *..119 

Datihne —  Non-blooming . 7 

Datura  Arborea . *..313 

Dealers  and  Editors . 13 

Death — .Abraham  Lincoln,  144 
—A.  G.  Hanford,  4 — -A.  0. 
Moore,  239— Large  Farmer, 
143  —  Ezekiel  Holmes,  69 — 
Joseph  Frost,  334 — Professor 
Lindley,  365 — Sir  J.  Paxton, 
237— \V.  Buckminster,  239 — 

AV.  J.  Hooker, . 303 

Deutzia — Double . *..252 

Diarrhoea  Remedy . 206 

Dictionary —  Best . 8 

Ditching  Machines . 270 

Dog  Laws  of  New  Jersey _ 142 

Dogs — Bells  for . 339 

Domestic  Intelligence . 269 

Doors — Sagging  . 254 

Poors—  Self-shutting . 286 

Draining  Hard  Pan . 366 

Drains  of  Plank . 2*.  .308 

Drinks  for  Summer . 221 

Drouth — Severe  . 333 

Ducks  —  Queries . 70 

x; 


Earth  Closets .  . 

. 347 

Editorial  Quarrels . 

Education  for  Farmers. . 

. 374 

Eggs— Keeping . 

. 270 

Elecampane—  Killing.. . 

,106-173 

Embroidery —  Beautiful. 

..  ..318 

Emigrant  Company . 

. 175 

Eucalyptus  resinifera. . . 

. 303 

Evergreens  —  Austrian 

Pine, 

Pimis  Puniilio  2*  17— 

-From 

Cuttings,  18 — Pruning. 

....  186 

Exhibitors— Hints  to... 

. 346 

Exhibition  —  French,  333— In¬ 
ternational,  236 — ’Tables,  at 

this  Office . 3-206-331 

Extravagance  in  Living . 254 

F 

Fair— Agricultural  268  —  Am. 
Institute,  270-366 — New  Eng¬ 
land,  304 — New  Y.  State,  304 

— Illinois  State . 304 

Fairs— Hints  about . 274 

Fallows  for  Wheat . 270 

Falsehood  about  Agriculturist. 36 

Family  Jars . 158 

Farm.  Calendar  for  Jan.  1  — 
Feb.  33 — March  65 — .April  101 
May,  137 — June,  169 — July, 
201— Aug.,  233 — Sept.,  265 — 
Oct.,  297— Nov.,  329— Dec.. 361 

Farm — Clay,  40  Acres . 36 

Farm  Locations . 237 

Farmer  Folks  in  AA’ar  Time*..  15 

Farmers’  Club— Live . 48 

Farmers — Laboring  . 70 

Farms — Southern  —  204 

Fasliions,  Comfort,  Health... 123 
Feed — Box  and  Barrow,  2*  12 — 
Cutting  for  Sfock,  279— Mix¬ 
ing  Cut . 302 

Feeding  loo  Heavy . 366 

Fence  Posts — Concrete,  7 — 
Preserving,  334-.367 — Remov¬ 
ing,  *  77 — Setting . 70 

Fences  along  Higliways,  242 — 
Gates  and  Posts,  142— Infor¬ 
mation  AVanled .  336 

Fertilization  — Insects  &  Wind.  15 

Fetters  for  Cattle,  etc . *.  .213 

Field  Horse  Tail  ...  4  *..250 

Field  AVork— Preparation _ 81 

Files— Sharpening . 38 

Firewood— Preparing . ’2* . .  62 


Fish-Breeding  Trout,  etc.  3* 
312-343— Markets  in  N.  A'  ..370 

Flag  Leek — Use  . 238 

Flannel — Shrinking . 124 

Flavor  of  Fruits . 187 

Flax  Culture— Prize  Essay  13* 

.  107 

Flies — Destroying . 318 

Flower  Beds  -  Form,  20.5 — Col- 
linsia  verna.  *  19— Datura 

Arborea . 313 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn. 
Calendar  for  Jan.  2— Feb.  34 
March  67 — .April,  103— May, 
139-  June,  171— July,  203 — 
Aug.,  235— Sept.,  260- Oct., 

299— Nov.  3,10—1)60., . 362 

Flower — Garden  Hints,  347— 
Gazania  Splendens,  285  — 
Markets,  N.  Y.,  153— Pits,  2* 
314 — Seed,  Prize,  303 — Trilo- 
ma  Uvaria,  37 — Everlasting. 

*  52-106-205 — Fine  Sliow,  143 
—For  Sliade,174 — For  Work¬ 
ing  Men,  15 — Novelties,  71 — 

Preserving,  286 — Useful . 87 

Fly  Poison — Caution . 254 

Foliage— Oinamental . 188 

Food  for  Children . 189 

Food — Variety  in .  88 

Foreign  Intelligence . 237 

Fountain — Drinking . *.  .373 

F ox — The  Red . * . .  209 

Frog  Exhibition . 237 

Frost  in  Pipes . 38 

Fruit— Early  Ripening . .134 

Fruit  Garden.  Calendar  for 
Jan.,  '2— Feb.,  34— March,  67 
— .April,  104 — May, 140 — June, 
171— July.  203— Aug.,  235 — 
Sept..  266— Oct.,  ‘299— Nov., 

3,10-Dec . 362 

Fruit,  vs.  Vegetable,  49 — 
Growers  Ass’n,  174— House 
in  Detroit,  303— In  Bottles, 
206  —  In  Minnesota,  365  — 
Jars,  Good,  237— Lists,  Lo¬ 
cal,  347 — Picking,  3*  305 — 

Prizes,  Greeley . . . 71 

Fruit  Trees— Ashes  for,  271 — 
Cultivation,  120  —  Trees, 
Dwarfing,  3*17— Soda  AVash, 
253— Trimming,  174  —  What 

to  Plant . 14 

Fruits  for  Illinois,  52 — Naming 

New,  19 — Preserving . 1,55 

Fuller — Removal .  71 

Fungi  Abundant . 271 

Furniture— Varnisliing . 157 

Fuchsia— Defective . 205 

Cl 

Garden  Edging,  271-303-313— 
Garden,  Farmers’  US — For 
Cliildren,  51— Herbs,  165— 

Implements . *.  ,219 

Garden,  Kitchen.  Calendar 
for  Jan.,  2— Feb..  34-March 
66— April  103  —  May,  139— 
June,  171 — July,  ‘203 — .Aug., 
234— Sept.,  266-Oct.,  298— 

Nov.,330— Dec., . 302 

Garden  Pit — Cheap,  63— Seeds, 
Secure,  53 — Small,  Profilalde 
6 -Succession  in,  187 — Value 

of . 84 

Gas  Lime — Caution . 366 

Gas  Stoves— Leslie  &Elliot’8.223 

Gas  Tar — Use  and  Value . 150 

Gazania  Splendens . 285 

Geese  Eggs — Keeping .  88 

Gift  Repealed . 304 

Geese— How  to  Pick . 318 

Gladiolus  —  Seedling .  7 

Gladiolus — Small  Bulbs . 106 

Glanders  and  Farcy.  .*.  .309-364 
Glass  Windows— Substitute.  .286 

Gloves — India  Rubber  . 106 

Glycerin  Described . 157 

Goals — Value  of . 43 

Grafting  Defined,  .52— lierba- 
ceous,  *  154  —  AVax— Good 

Substitute  for . 81 

Grain,  Cradles — Best,  2  *  240— 
How  to  Bind,  *  246 — Raking 
and  Binding,  246— Shrinkage. 7 
Grape  Vines.  Cold  Grapery, 
Calendar  for  Marcli.  67 — 
April,  104— May,  140— June, 

171 — July,  204— Aug..  235 — 
Sent.,  267— Ocl.,299— N0V.33I 

—Dec  . 362 

Grape  Vines  —  CnlUire,  19— 
Grafting,  72  -  379  —  Hillside 
Trellises,  271 — In  Pots,  2* ‘205 
■249— Mildew.  2  *  217-237 — 
Moving.  336— New  Disease, 

•  251  —  Planting,  *  85-120  — 
Pruning,  3  *  345— Trellises. .143 
Grapery — Experience  w itii  84-120 

Graperies- Training  in . 239 

Graiies  and  AVino,205 — BeslLo- 
calily,  37 — Delaware  Cut¬ 
tings,  71— Dr.  Grant’s,  8-30— 
Fine  Delawares,  302— Fine 
Show,  239— For  Micliigiin,  71 


INDEX 


III 


v>  <a. 


—  Knox’s  Experience,  368 
— Notes  on, 19-155 — For  New¬ 
ly  Marrietl,  13 — In  Spring, 14S 
-«Iona  and  Israella,  8-15-39 
25fl— Isabella,  1-13 — Keeping, 
sot—  Notes  on,  19-283-311- 
848-379— Rogers’  Hybrids. . .  .85 
Grass  —  China.  33  —  Grama, 
270— Kentucky  Blue,  US- 
Named,  71 — Oroliard,  114-214 
— R.  I.  Bent,  45 — Seed,  Cov¬ 
ering,  142 — Seeding  down  to, 
182 — Seeding  witli  Miliet.  205 
—Top  Dressing,  178 — Des¬ 
cribed,  4  *  45 — Red  Top,  Or- 
cliard,  Kentucky  Blue,  5  *  79 
— Sweet  Scented  Vernal, Vel¬ 
vet  or  Meadow  Soft  ...3*. .115 
Gravel  Wall  Houses. .  .41-78-175 

Greasing  Griddles,  etc . 54 

Greeley  Prizes . 236 

Green  and  Hot  Houses. 
Calendar  for  Jan.,  2 — Feb., 

34 — March,  67 — jVpril,  103 — 
i\Iay,140— June,171— July,  203 
— Aug.,  235— Sept.,  267— Oct., 

£99— Nov.,  330 — Dec . 362 

Green*Houses . 2*.  314 

Greens— Spring . 72 

Ground  Hemlock . *..345 

Groundsel— Common . *.  .220 

Growth — Unseasonable . 375 

Gun  Cleaner — Simple . 11 

H 

Hair  Crimpers . 173 

Harness — Rats  Gnawing...  .37-70 

Hams— Keeping . 158 

Harvest  Prospects . 269 

Harvest  Time . *..247 

Hay  Caps— Wooden . 278 

Hay — Carrying  by  Hand, *244— 
Chaffing,  270 — Curing  Exper¬ 
iments,  211— Drawing  with 
Rope,  *  212— Embargo  on,  42 
—  Fork  Attachment,  2  *  212 — 
Fork,  Horse,  *  177 — Fork, 
Hutchinson’s,  *244— Pitching 
into  Window,  178 — Rigging, 
Wagon.  *  212 — Selling  or 
Feeding,  4- -Stacker,  Horse, 

*  4-177  —  Stacks,  Building 
Round,  *  270 — Stacks,  Lean- 
'  ing,  277 — Timothy  in  Iowa.. 5 

Hearth  Rug — Home-made _ 222 

Hedges  —  Barberry,  6 — Ever- 
.  green,  85 — In  New  Jersey,  37 

Making  Ciose . 183 

Herb — L'Eslragon . 106 

Hoed  Crop.s— (lultivating . 210 

Hoes  -Scuffle  . 178 

Hoes — Sliarpening . 114 

Hog  Disease  in  Virginia . 302 

Hogs — Best  Breed,  112 — Killed 
by  Bean  Pods,  336— Lice  on, 
174— Poisoned  by  Salt,  36 — 
Slaughtering,  2*337 — Slaugh¬ 
tering  at  West,  12— Turnips 
for,  36-174 — Weakly  Pigs.  4 — 

Wintering . . 370 

Hollyhocks — Keeping . 303 

Honeysuckle— Trumpet. . .  .*.  .49 

Hook  for  Buckets . *..72 

Hoop  Skirts — Use  for .  7-39 

Hops— Prize  Essay . 2*.  73 

Horse  Book,  5— Diseased,  141 
— Hitcliing  to  Rope,  177 — 
Power  Defined,  210— Radish, 

Grinding,  6 — $37,500  . 70 

Horses  at  Pasture, 147— Baulky 
270  —  Breaking  Colts,  10 — 
Carrots  for, 6 — Gh’k  Reins, 211 
Draught,  *184— Driving  witli 
Oxen,  44  —  Feeding  Young 
Colts,  366 — Fitting  Collars, 
270— For  Heavy  Work,  183  — 
Glandered, 09— Glanders,  De¬ 
tecting,  *  309 — Glanders,  Pj  e- 
valent,  209-364  —  Halter  for 
I’nlling,  ISl— Heaves,  Rem¬ 
edy,  302  —  Soralciies,  174— 
Slabbering,  366  —  Spavins, 

141 — Tethering  335-Vicious*280 
Ilort.  Exliibition  Am.  Ins.,  334 
Regisler,  237— Soc.  Mass. ,334 
— Soc  Penn.,333 — Soc.  Wor¬ 
cester . 334 

Horticultnre  and  .Matrimony.  .13 

Hot-bed — Double . 39 

House — Clieap . 5*.  .41 

Housekeeping —  Beginning. . .  .53 

Honseliold  Notes . 54 

Hou.«es — Cheap,  Convenient, 

4  *  177— Small  and  Cheap, 

4*  78— Suggestions  about  —  83 
Humbugs  —  Advertising,  106— 
Benefit  .Ass'n,206 — Circulars, 

'  7 — College,  7— Dr.  Andrews, 
lOG —  Earth  Glasses,  143 — 
Farms  in  Iowa, 106— Gipsey’s 
Ciiarms,  106 — Honey  Recipe, 
E04— Horticultural, 237 — How'- 
ard  .4ss’n,  100 — Kosnios,  301 
— Liglitiung  Rod,  7— Mart* 
Qo.,  106 — Medical,  173-335 — 

17  Merchants’  Exchange,  238 
microscope,  200 — “  Oreiiant 
:.Gas,”  7 — Peddler, 37 — Propli- 
ylactioal  Star.  303  — IJuack 
i)5ctors,'  7 — Quack  Medicine, 
.367 — Rev.  E.  Wilson,  367 — 
Wine  Plant,  336— Sundry .  .. 

. 37-141-333 

Jfyaclntlis— Propagating . 53 


Hyacinths— Root  Pruning . 239 

Husk  Tearing  Machine . 37 


1 


Ice  Cream, Freezer .  141 

Ice  Houses — Construction  —  270 

Ice — Removing . 8 

Ice  — Size  of  Blocks  . 8 

Implements — Farm,  Cheaper  .30 

Implements — Price . 141 

Indiana  Agriculture . 277 

Inforinalion  Wanted . 8 

Ink — Preventing  Moulding. . .  335 
Insects -Bean  Maggots,  37 — 
Benzine  for,  188 — Book,  335 
— Borer, 173 — Canker  Worms 
23S-2  *  366  —  Caterpillars,  271 
— Curculio  Remedy,  .271 — 
Currant  Worm,  141-237-^303 — 
Entomological  Journal,  333 — 
Experience  with,  18— Hair 
Worm,  272 — Killing,  271 — 
Killing  Ants, 22-191-238 — Lice 
on  Stock,  112 -On  Slelons,  39 
— Potato  Beetle,  2  *  239— 
Poultry  Lice,  334-33.5- Quas¬ 
sia  for  Ants,  335— Queries, 271 
— Red  Locust,  335  —  Slings, 
Cure,  238 — Soap-Waste  for, 
205— Striped  Bug,  155-173— 
Tent  Caterpillars. 72 — Thrips 
or  Fritters,  237 — Unseasona¬ 
ble, 143 — Upon  Insects . 271 

Inspector  General  . 335 

Invalids — Suggestions  to . 22 

Iron— Galvanized . 175 

Itciiing— Relieving . 54 

Ivy — German . *.  .52 


Jack  Screws,  Uses . *..371 

Kale— How  to  Cook . 37 

Kerosene  Burner . 173 

Knox’s  Farm  and  Festival  .  378 

Kyanizing . 38 


Label — Bliss's . *.  .6 

Labor  Saving,  etc  . 343 

Labor — Skilled  for  Farm  ...144 

Laborers— Supplying . 175 

Lamp  Chimney — Best  . 22 

Land  Advertisements . 5-107 

Lands  on  Atlantic  Coast .  105 

Larkspur — New . 4 

Lavender — Garden  . *..SI3 

Law — Taxing  Bird-killers . 143 

Lawns — Making . 122 

Layering . 187 

Library —Farmers’ . 5 

Lightning  Rods  . 190-205 

Lilacs  Blooming  Twice  . 336 

Lilies — 20,000,  303 — J  acobean, 

*  156 — New  Japanese,  *153-281 

Lime — Burning . 38 

Lime  for  Whitewash . 86 

Live  Oak  in  Iowa  .  233 

Locating — Wliere  ?  . 5 

Locust  Slickers . 205 

Locust — Yellow  for  Timber.  .142 
Lumber — Quanlily  from  Log..  11 

Bi 

Machine — “  Manufacturing”. .  38 

Magazine— Horticulturist . 6 

Magazine — New . 107 

Magnolia — Cliinese. . *. .  86 

Mangoes  Defined . 143 

Manure — Aslies  for  Potatoes, 36 
— Barley  Sprouts  ,174 — Bone- 
dust  for  Wlieat,  334— Coal 
Aslies, 174 — Coarse.  Applying, 
70— Compo.^t,  33-331— Flax 
Slaves, etc., 38— For  Gardens, 
106 — For  Hoii.^e  Plants.  334 — 
For  Onions,  71 — Gas  Lime, 
Caution,  366  —  Green  Clo¬ 
ver,  70 — Green  Crops for,*244 
Hair  for,  270 — How  to  Pitch, 
*149 — Increasing,  306 — Kee))- 
ing,  270— Leatlier  Scraps,  70 
Liquid, 204 — Management, 182 
— Marl  for  Fruit  Trees,  367 
— Marls, 334— iMiick  and  Lime, 
206  —  Phosphatic,  238 — In¬ 
creasing,  306— Guano,  204 — 
Plaster,  142-204— Pump  for 
Liquid,  2*21 3  — Salt  and  Lime, 

334— Sawdust,  334— Slaugh¬ 
ter  House,  4 -Soot,  302— Tan 
Bark,  etc.,  366  .-  Tank  and 
Cesspool,  *  24.5 — Top-dres¬ 
sing,  39— Use  of  Bones,  204 

— Wasted . 334 

Maple  Sugar . *..13  40-09 

Maple — Wliite . *. .  185 

Maps— Lloj’d  &  Go's  . . 144 

Maps — Mounting . 1.57 

Market  Farm— English . 81 

Market  Reports.  Jan.,  3 — 
Feb.,  34— March,  68 — April, 
104— May,  162— June,  194-r 
July,  226 — .Aug.,  25S— Sept., 
208— Oct.,  301-304-Nov.,  332 

Decl . ..363 

Marl  Described . 7-334 

Meadows — Pastming _ ",  JI4J 

Meadow.s — Renovating . 270 


Meals  for  Variety . 88 

Meat,  etc — Tainted . 124 

Meat — Pre.«eiving . 72-143 

Medicine.^ — Quack .  367 

Melons — Training . 205 

Milk — Condensed, 22 — Cooling, 

2.39 — Promoting  Flow . '.243 

Missouri  Land  Co . 204 

Mistakes  ill  Tasle . 187 

Moisliire  in  Air  Needed . 21 

Movements  of  Plants . *..380 

Moles — Castor  Beans . 71 

Money  for  Soldiers . 72-173 

Mortar — Sand  Required...-. _ 7 

Mowers — Trial  of . -  333 

Slowing  Machine  Knives . 211 

Mucilage  and  Ink . 335 

Aliilching  and  Shading . 166 

Mushroom  Culture . 206 

Music— Good . 141 

Musical  Instruments . 365 

Sluttonfor  tlie  Million . 369 

N 

Names — Pronunciation,  etc.  .271 

Newspaper  Box . *  .8 

Newspaper — Newton’s . 72 

Newspapers — 40,000,000  . 143 

O 

Oats— Bad  Management . 77 

Oats  in  .Succession . 70 

Oil,  Gummed — Remedy . 7 

O.  Judd  &  Co . SOI 

Olives  and  Oil . *.  .317 

Onions— Culture,  71-143 — De¬ 
fective,  143 — Good  Crop,  6— 
Manure  for,  71 — Peeling,  22- 
68 — Whereto  Grow . 143 

Orchard  and  Nursery.  Cal¬ 
endar  for  Jan.,  1 — Feb.,  ?4 — 
March,  66— April,  102 — May, 

138 — June,  170 — July,  202— 
Aiig.,  234 — Sept..  266— Oct., 

298— Nov.,  330— Dec . 362 

Orcliard— Pioneer . 48 

Oichard — Treatment . 39 

Organ — Esiey’s  Cottage  . 365 

Osage  Orange  Seed . 303 

Oxen — Management  of . 147 

Oxen  -Profitable  Teams.. — 308 

I” 

Paeoiiies — Cultiv.afion . 156 

Paioiiies— Removing . 7 

Painting  Old  AVood  Work _ 317 

Pansy— Cultivation . 7-284 

Pansies  and  Violets . 38 

Papaw  Bark  for  Tying . 205 

Paper — Higli  Price  of . 314 

Papering  Walls  . 123 

Park  Row  and  Park  Place. ..106 

Park  with  Five  Acres . 374 

Patent  Rights  . 335 

Patterson  &  Bros . 7 

Pea  Bnisli . 39-7 1 

Peaeli— Hale’s  Early,  239  -On 
Willow,  71— Orcliard,  Crop 
for,  37— Spring  Budding,  1T4 
Tree  Layers,  39 — Trees,  In¬ 
jured,  38— Trees  in  Cold  Cli¬ 
mates,  18  —  Trees,  Spring 

Budding . 37 

Pear  Culture  Profitable,  314 — 
Slocks,  Quince,  113—  Tree 
Blight,  2;0— Trees,  Barren, 

6  —  Trees,  Doctoring,  85— 
Trees,  Double  Working,  218 

Trees,  Exposure  . 38 

Pears  on  Thorn . 71 

Pears — Sheldon . 50 

Peas — Harvestiiig,24.3 — Named. 

38— Soaking . 71 

Peat  for  Fuel . 183 

Perennials— Herbaceous..  117-282 

Perfumes — How  made . 190 

Periwinkle— Common . *. .  157 

Persimmon  Seed .  205 

Petroleum  Adverlisements .  .5-69 

Pholograplis — Animal . 141 

Photograplis  of  Lincoln . 206 

Pianos— Sleinway’s . 333 

Pickles— How  to  Make . 253 

Pigeons  on  llie  Farm  . 270 

Planting  Deep  and  Sliallow. .  148 
Plants — Care  of  House.  21-319 
—For  Shade,  205 — Mixing, 

174  —  Named,  7-71-173-206- 

. . 239-271-3,70 

Plaster  and  Bone  Dust  .  70 

Plow  Beams  Length  of,  210 
— Drauglit  of,  145 — Hutchin¬ 
son’s,  2*  245 — Right  or  Left 

Hand,  339 — Subsoil . *. .  ]8I 

Plows — Care  of  Steel . 367 

Plowing— Best  Soil  at  Top.*.  .242 
Plowing  in  Green  Crops,  *  214 
—Notion  about,  33 — Sward 
Ground,  4*145 — Wet  Ground, 
. *..341 

P.  O.  Money  Orders _ 4-236-307 

I'ornological  Society,  Ohio  ..365 
Potatoes  —  Boiling,  38— Bulk- 

ley's,  38-70  —  Cuzco,  38  — 
Dropping,*  MS— Early  Sliaw, 

141  —  Exhibition,  365  —  Ex- 
perimenls,  70-375  —  Fluke, 
6-70 — Good  Yield,  238 — How 
to  Cook,  22— How  to  Dig,307  i 
— How  to  Plant,  146 — Large  i 
or  Small,  ^ — Notes  oh,'  6*  44 
— Productive,  0  — Selecling  / 


Seed,  280 — Size  of  Seed,  *148 
— Tan  Bark  for,  153 — Under 

Straw . 11-342 

Poudrette — Curious  Mixture. .205 
Poultry  —  Bantams,  *  216 — 
Black  Spanish, *4-309 — Bones 
for,  117 — Book,  Saunders  ,215 
Early  Cliickens,4 — Fountain, 

*  174 — French,  *  216 — Hen¬ 
neries,  Light,  4 — House  for 
Prairies,  36 — Large  Indian, 
*241— Lice,  334-335— Market¬ 
ing  Directions,  365 — Preco- 
eioiis,302 — Raising  Chickens, 
113— Report,  142-302 — Show; 
Barniim’s.  141-206 — Sickly .  .366 
Practical  Farmer  Dead .144 
Premiums  for  1865.  .2-34-104-172 
Premiums  for  1866.  ..300-331-363 

Preserving  Fruit . 206 

Primrose— Chinese . 143 

Productive  Plot . 38 

Propagating  Case . 7 

Protecting  Plants . 365 

Prunes— Smoky . 54 

Pulley — Uses . *.  .373 

Pumping  Water .  . 335 

Pumps— Best  Kind . 143 

Piircliasing  Agency . 5 

Putty — Making . 124 

Putty — Softening. . . 124 

Q 

Questions — Difficult . . . 143 

Questions— Sundry . 367 

Quinces — Fine . 367 

Quinces  on  Clay  Soil . 36 

R 

Rabbits  and  Trees . 6 

Radish— Chinese . 84 

Radish  Culture . 303 

Rags  —  Sell  them . 107 

Railway  Accidents . 5 

Rake  Teeth- Form  of . *..210 

Rake— The  Buck . *..213 

Rats— Economy  of . 10 

Rats  Gnawing  llarness . 37-70 

Receipts  not  Given . 364 

Recipes — Bachelor’s  Opinion.. 54 

Record  of  a  "Year . 17 

Refrigerator — ”  Polar  ” . 144 

Report— Resources  of  N.  V' _ 8 

Rhododendron' — Notes  on.  ..220 

Rliubarb  for  Medicine . 37 

Road  Scraper . *,  45 

Roads—  Repairing . 11 

Roofing  Cement — Coal  Tar  ...4 

Roofs — Leaky . 367 

Root  Cutter . *.  .77 

Root  Pruning . 336 

Roots — Burying,  *  342— Use  of 
Surface, 19 — Value  for  Feed.. 6 

Ropes— Splicing' . 4*..  275 

Ropes — Tying  Knots . 6*.  .305 

Roses — Biiclianaii’s  New,  143 — 
Sport  of,  *  220 — Hints  on,  81 
— Manetti  Stock,  143 — Moss, 

*  284— Remontant . 38 

Rural  Einbellislimeiits - *.  .217 

Rustic  Garden  Ornaments. 4*.  .20 

Rustic  Seat . *.  .217 

Rust — Removing . 367 

Rusting — Preventing.  .38-106-255 
Rye — Sowing  Late . 371 


Salting  Stock  and  Hay . 240 

Sand  Box  Tree . *..188 

Sandy  Land. . Improving . 204 

Sanitary  Commission . 253-335 

Sap  Spouts . 173 

Sausage  Meat— Keying . 88 

Sawing  with  Horse  Power..38-71 

Saws — How  to  File . 4*.  .14 

Scales  for  the  Farm . 205 

Scrap  Books  for  Soldiers . 8 

Scythe  Sharpening . 270 

Scythes — Correct  Form . 336 

Seed— Big  Name . 106 

Seed  Time . *..152 

Seeds  —  Evergreen,  etc.,  5— 
Garden,  Raising,  117 — Get¬ 
ting  Early ,75 — None  for  Sale, 
3— Number  per  oz.,  71 — 

Slartiiig  Early . 121 

Selling — Best  Time  for . 366 

Shade  Trees — Size  of . 37 

Shading  and  Mulching . 186 

Shaving  Easy . 22 

Slieep — Am.  Merino  *  75— And 
Fences,  106— At  N.  Y.  Fair, 

335— Beans  for,  M2 — Breed¬ 
er's  Fair,  141 — Care  in  Win¬ 
ter,  9 — Diarrhoea,  334 — Dip¬ 
ping  Compound,  142— Dog 
Laws,  42 — Early  Lambs,  75- 
306 — Graining,  1 53 — Hoof  Rot, 
242 — How  to  Shear,  *  180— 
Laurel  Poisoning,*  249-306 — 
Management,  334 — Mania,  43 
— Old  for  Wool. 142 — Owning 
Lambs,  142 — Profitable,  42- 
142  —  Prolific.  70  —  Pulling 
their  Wool,  142— Racks, Fod¬ 
dering,  3*,  369 — Selection  for 
Breeding,  .-;70  —  Sliearing, 
Canandai.erua,  269— Shearing 
llints.  *  180 — Shears,  Grind¬ 
ing,  *  T60  —  Show,  173— 


Stretches,  142 — Washing,  147 
—Weight  of,  339  —  Winter 

Feeding  . a(!7 

Shelter — Expensive . .46 

Shingles— Fire  Proof . 176 

Sliingles— How  to  Lay  . 23S 

Shoe  String  Tags . 54 

Shoes— Wooden . *.  .350 

Shovels — How  to  Use, . *..340 

Shrub- Daphne  mezereiim*.  .119 
Shrnb-Exochorda  Grandiflora*20 

Shrubbery  in  Spring .  *..119 

Silk.  Worm — Ailanlhiis . 76 

Silk  Worms  in  France . 238 

Sink — Convenient  . *..53 

Sleigh  Ride— Family . *..48 

Slippers — German . 22 

Smoke  House — Good  . 336 

Smoke  Hou.se  In-door . 47 

Snow  Tools . V . 3*.  372 

Soap— Hard . . . 88-335 

Soap  Making . 222 

Socks — Cheap  . *..123 

Soda,  Saleratus,  etc . 124 

Soda  Wash  for  Trees . 253 

Soil — Best  on  Surface,  *  242 — 
Pulverizing,  151 — Renovating 

Sterile . M8-302 

Solanum — Climbing . *.  .380 

Soldering  Iron .  124 

Soldiers’  Claims . 236 

Sorghum  Ass’n  Ohio, 5 — Candy, 

39 — Convention,  Wis.,  36— 
Culture,  37 — Early  Kind;  303 
-  For  Green  Fodder,  240 — 

In  Cliina,  106 — In  Mass., 48 — 

In  New  'York.  4 — Machinery, 
Good,  237 — Planting,  106 — 

Treatment . . . 279 

Sorrel — Red . 39 

Southern  Region — Fine . 366 

Sparrow.' — European . . *.  .209 

Spots  on  Furniture  . 88 

Spring  House — Prairie . 239 

Sqiiash — Custard  Marrow2*.  .317 
Squashes — Large,  367 — Mixing, 
205-367 — Prolific,  6-143 — 'Yo- 

kohama . 82 

S.  S.  Lesson  Books . 8 

S.  S.  Paper,  Good . 72 

Stable  Brush  Broom . *..341 

Stable  Fork — Wooden . *..369 

Slain— Claret  Wine . 4 

Stains — Removing . 124-206 

Stanchions  vs.  Cliains . 366 

Steam  Engine — Glass  _ 107 

Steel  Trap — How  to  Set . 238 

Stockings- Double  Heeling. .  158 

Stoves — Best . 22 

Stoves— Gas . 223 

Straw — Chaffing . 270 

Strawberries  —  Culture,  284— 
First,  173 — For  New  Jersey, 
38-In  England,  237-Notes  on, 
121-219-232 — Premium, 36-14 1 
— Preserving.  173-191— Show 
144-172-232— Propagation,  38 
— Queries,  6-237  — Runners, 

336— In  New  'York,  222 — Tri¬ 
bune  . 71 

Stump  Machine — Clieap...*.  .114 

Subscriber— Smallest . 7 

Subscription — First . 8 

Subscription  Letter— Form. .  .365 

Subsoil  Plow . *181 

Subsoiling  Wet  Ground . 181 

Sugar  from  Corn  . 44 

Summer  Fallows . 211 

Superpliosphate— Plowing  in. .70 
Sweet  Potato  Cullure  — 144-154 
Sweet  Polatoes— Starting  — 107 
Swill  Barrel— Portable,  —  *..80 
Swill— Fermented . . . 239 


Tanning  Fur  Skins . 191 

Tapioca . - . *..381 

Tea — Taking  in  the  Country.. 21 

Teachers'  Agencies . — 72 

Tile  Maci.ii  es . 366 

Tim  Bmikei  on  Pickles,  46-80- 
176-285 — “Striking  He”  116 

—Visit  to  T.  Oakes . 150 

Timber  Felling . ..*..372 

Toad  Flax  . . *.,252 

Tobacco  Culture,  173 — Prepar¬ 
ing  for,  151 — Seed  Beds....  107 
Tomato— Libel  on,  318. -New 
Varieties,  82 — Seed,  Saving, 
237-271— Tilden,  336— Train¬ 
ing  . 154 

Tools— Hanging  up . 39 

Touch-me  not — Jewel  Weed*. 217 

Trailing  Arbutus . *..377 

Tree  Digger — Harkne.'s,  *  119- 
302 — Labels,  Tin,  39— Ped¬ 
dlers  Taxed,209— Protectors, 

. ......203 

Ti-ees  —  Barlc-bonnd,  6 — Fel¬ 
ling,  Problems,  *  2-10 — From 
Layers,  39— Injured  by  Hor¬ 
ses,  3.15— Lard  ami  Tobacco 
on,  302 — Medicated,  6— Upon 

Prairies . 86 

Trumpet  Honeysuckle.*.  .49-143 
Tuberose — Cultivation . .  .3*.  .378 

Tucker,  L.  D -Professor . 303 

Turkeys — F  atteui  ng . 336-338 

Turnip  Seed  per  Acre . 205 

Turnips  —  August,  ‘241 —  For 
Horses,  360— On  Heavy  Soils, 
etc.,  209 — White  French  — 
Turpenlijae— pitch  Pino... 


IV 


INDEX 


u 


Unseasonable  Growth . 375 

U.  S.  Bonds..., . T2 


V 


Varnish — Furniture . 191 

Vegetables — New . 37 

Venus’s  Fly  Trap . *.  .380 

Verbenas— Seedling . 303 

Veterinary  College. .  .14-302 — 365 
Vine — Alleghany  or  Climbing 
Fumitory,*  66 — Climbing  So- 

lanum . *..380 

Vinegar  in  Cement,  106 — From 

Cider,  271 — Making . *..221 

Vineland  Advertisement . 141 

Vineland — Notes  on . 365 

Violet — E  ver-blooming . 367 

Visiting  among  Farmers _ 253 

Volumes — Bound . 364 


W 


Walks — Coal  Aslies  for . 185 

Walks — Coal  Tar . 347 

Warmth  of  Clothing,  elo.350-382 
Wasliing  Machine — Doty’s.,*.  .87 
Washington  Monument .  232 


Waspisli  Item . 173 

Wasps  and  Gas  Tar . 39 

Waste  Ground — Reoiaiming  ’274 


Water  for  Stock.  179  —  Hard 
and  Soft,  8 — Pines,  Iron,  39 — 
Usefut  and  Ornamental,  *.  373 

Weather  Strips — Torrey’s . 4 

Weeding  Hoe— .4dams _ *.  .149 

Weeding  Implements . 3*.  .51 

Weeds— Bladder  Campion,  *6- 
277— Canada  Tliistles,  6-7{.'- 
205 — Charlock  or  Field  .Mus¬ 
tard.  307 — Chickweed.  143— 
Couch  Grass,  *  341 — Elecam¬ 
pane,  106-173 — Field  Horse 
Tail,  4*  250 — Groundsel,  220 
— Horse  Nettle,  *  283 — In 
Fence  Rows,  149  —  Indian 
Mallow,  314— Plants  out  of 
Place,  13 — Red  Sorrel,  39— 
Wild  Morning  Glory,  143 — 

Toad  Flax  . *..252 

Well  Curb— Good . *.  .180 

Wells — Digging,  Stoning. 3*.  .273 

Wells— Side  Hill . 76 

Western  Agriculture _ 215-246- 

.  339-374 

Wheat— Boughton  White,238 — 
Dritling  Profitable,  278  — 
Plant,  Habit  of,  2*  308— Pre¬ 
paring  Soil,  279 — Preparing 
to  Sow,  112  —  Preventing 


Smut.  270— Seed  per  Acre, 
341 — Smut  Remedy,  270 — 335 
Lime  for,  270 — Soring,  Soils 
for,  112 — Winter  Killing,  278 

—Without  Plowing  . 70 

Wheelbarrow  for  Boys . 11 

While  Mountains — Letter..*.  .272 
Whitevr  ashing— Directions  . .  .r23 

Wild  Cherry  Stocks . .  ....302 

Wilder,  M.  P .  37 

Willow  Frauds,  106 — Osier, 106 

-269 — White .  6-76 

Wind  Power — Accumulating. .  .7 

Wine  Making .  304-365 

Wistaria — Chinese  *83 — Flow¬ 
ering  of,  271--Fruiling . 4 

Wolves  and  Gophers . 106 

Woman— Patriotic . 46 

Wood  Anemone . *.  122 

Wood — Splitting  Block,2*  82-372 

Wool-folding  Table . *..181 

Wool  -Greasy  Fleeces  ...*..118 
Wool  Grower’s  Ass’n — N.E.  .304 
Woolens— High  Price . 367 


Y 


Yards— Laying  Out .  4*.. 50 

Yale  College  Ag’l  Dep’t . 236 

Yeast— How  to  Make . 287-350 

Y  e  w— American . .  * . .  345 


Apple  and  Pie  Plant . 158 

Apple  Jonathan . 158 

Apple  Sauce . 382 

Beef— Keeping  . 318 

Bread  at  Sea . 318 

Bread — Steam  Cooked . 287 

Beef— Pickling  for . 54 

Beet  Hash . 223 

Biscuit — Graham . 158 

Blanc  Mange— Chocolate . 88 

Bread,  223 — Rye  and  Indian, 158 

— Unbolted  Wheat . 54 

Breakfast  Dish . 158 


Cake — Breakfast,  158 — Farm¬ 
ers,’  54— Farrners’Fruit,  23 — 
Gingerbread,  254 — Hard  Gin¬ 
gerbread,  318— Jumbles,  2-.:3 
Mock  Sponge.  158— Molas.scs 
Sponge,  318- Nntcakes,  54 — 
Potalo,  158 — Soft  Sorghum. .254 


Carrots— Baked . 55 

Codfish  Balls . 55 

Cooking  without  Milk . 158 

Corn  Bread . 80-381 

Corn  Bread — Steamed . 2't3 

Corn  Cake— Breakfast  . 54 

Crackers,  i’.M— Butler,  223— 

Soda,  55— Tea . 223 

Cream  Suhstilule . 158 

Crust  Porridge .  89 


Egg  Puffs  . 254 

Floating  Island . 223 

Hams— Pickling  for . 54 

Johnny  Cake . 158 

Lime  Spots— Remcving . . .  I . .  255 

Lime  Water  in  Dough .  223 

Meat— Keeping . 318 

Milk  Gruel . 89 

Omelet — Cheese . . . 124 

Omelet — Plain . 223 

Parsnip  Croquettes . 55 

Pie— Cream .  88 


Pudding— Apple,  150  —  Boiled 
Indian,  158  —  Bread,  88  — 
Christmas,  318 — Extra,  254 — 
Green  Corn.  287 — Hasty,  54  - 
Poor  Man’s  158-  Pop-Corn, 159 
— Sauce  for,  382 — Steam.  158 
— Slearaed  Indian,  255 — 'Tap¬ 


ioca . 381 

Pumpkin  Dried . 125 

Rusks . 159 

Sauce  —  Chili . 287 

Sauer  Kraut .  .  .  23 

Soup-  Potato . 124 

Span!  -h  Cream . .88 

Squash — Baked . 125 

Squash— Dried . 124 

Syrup— Sweet  Apple . 124 

Water  Gruel . 89 

Wheat  and  Indian  Cake . 158 

Yeast,  287  — First,  350— Pota¬ 
to .  124 


iroiEX  TO 


lPWMfy-lF®lUK, 


A 

Apple -Porler  . . . — 315 

Austrian  Pine . 17 

B 

Balancing— Children . 160 

Barn  Door  Fastening . 369 

Barn-  Illinois  . 12 

Beans  — Varieiies . (4).  .154 

Barrow  and  Feed  Box. .(2)...  12 
Bellows  for  apidying  Sulph’r..217 

Bees  — Buried  Stocks .  ..275 

Bladder  Nut  Tree . (2)  1.53 

Bonne's  -  Fashions . (3) .  .21 

Bread-  Pictorial  History - .'156 

. -,248—372 

Bridge — Rustic . 185 

Broom— Brush  for  Stables _ 341 

Buckwheat  Stock  . 310 

Buffalo— East  Indian . 9 

Bullock — East  Indian . 9 

Butternut  Ornament . 349 

C 

Caper  Plant . 285 

Carlo’s  Portrait . 24 

Carving  Turkey . ..381 

Catlle  Inspecting . 314 

Celery — Management... .  (3).  .218 

Chair — H  ome-inade . 87 

Cheese  Factory . 340 

Clicslnuts — I  inproved . 377 

Cliild  Being  Washed . 126 

Child— Benevolent  . ’256 

Cliildren  Left  Alone . 192 

Children  Riding  on  Log . 352 

Christmas  Tree . 384 

Cinniitnon  ami  Cassia. .  (3).  .349 
Citron  Flower  and  Fruit.(2).  .221 

Corn— Diminutive  ..  . 51 

Corn  Husking  Pin,  338— Mar¬ 
ker,  149-Shock  Binder, _ 343 

Cow — Yoke  for .  335 

Cradle  Finger— Right  Posit’n.240 
Ciirraul —  Fertile  ile  Paliiau, 
2S2— Versailles,  281  —  Victo¬ 
ria . '282 

D 

Dandelion . 189 

Drains— Plank . (2).  ,308 

K 

Evergreens  —  American  Yew, 


345  —  Austrian  Pino,  17  — 


Pinus  Pumilio . 17 

IP 

Farmers  in  War  Time  . 16 

Farmers’  Study— (Vignettel - 1 

Fire  Wood— Preparing. . .  (.2) . .  82 
Fisherman’s  Return . 56 


Flax — Brush  Harrow,  109 — 
Gavel,  110— Gavel  Holder.lll 
—Hand  Brake,  HI- Plant, 
(3)  108-109- Power  Brake, 
HI — Power  Scutcher,  HI — 
Scutching  Board,  HI — Slack, 
IlO-Stook,  HO— Swingle...  Ill 
Flowers — Cardinal  Flower,  348 
Claytonia,  122  —  Collinsia 
Verna,  19 — Columbine,  156 — 
Common  Periwinkle,  1>7 — 
Convolvulus  Minor,  188 — 
Datura  aiborea,  313 — Grape 
Hyacinth,  316  — Helipterum 
Sanfordii.5’2 — Jacobean  Lily, 
156— Lilinm  Auratum,  281 — 
Spring  Snow  Flake,  316 — 
Trailing  Arbutus, 377 — Trum¬ 
pet  Honeysuckle,  49— Tuber¬ 
ose,  (3)  378-379 — Venus’s  Fly 
Trap,  380  —  Wistaria,  83  — 


Wood  Anemone . 122 

Fountain — Drinking  . 373 

Fox— Red . 209 

Frog  Race .  28? 

Fruit  Picker . 305 

Fruit  Picking  Ladder. . . .  (2).  .305 

O 

Game — Prison  Base .  383 

Grafting— Herbaceous . 154 

Grain  Slieaf . 2-10 

Grape  Vine  in  Border,  249  — 
Vine  iii  Pots.  249  —  Vine 


Planting.  120— Pnining(3).  .310 
Grass  —  Flouer  Dissected, 

(4  |  45— Kentucky  Blue  (2)  79 
—  Meadow,  Soft,  115  —  Or- 
chard.  (2)  79— Red  Top,  79 — 


Sweet  Scented  Vernal,  (2). .  115 
Green-House — Seclion . 315 

B1 

Haller  for  Pulling  Hor.ses _ 181 

Hanow— Brn.^ti . 1U9 

Harvest  Tinre . 248 


Hay — Carrying  by  Hand,  ’244 — 
Drawing  with  Rope,  212 


Fork  Atlacliment,  (2)  212 — 
Fork,Hutcliinson’s. 244— Rig¬ 
ging,  Wagon,  212— Stacker, 

Horse . 177 

Herb — Benne  or  Sesame _ 348 

Hoe.  Adams’  149 — Fork,  219 — 
Missionary,  51 — Scuffle,  51 — 

Wlieel  .  51 

Horse— Detecting  Glanders, 309 
for  Heavy  Dranglit,  184  — 
Head  of  Vicious,  280 — Hitch¬ 
ing  to  Rope ...  177 

Hogs — Manner  of  Killing _ 137 

Hogs — Vat  for  Scalding . ,337 

Hook  for  Buckets . 72 

Hop  “Set” . 74 

Hop  Yard — Collins’ . 73 

Houses — Cheap  (5)  41-(4)  78- 
. (D  177 

I 

Insects— Potalo  Beetle, (2)239 — 
Canker  Worm  Preventive, 
. (2)  366 


Ivy— German . 52 

J 

Jack  Screws . 371 


li 

Landscape — Curious . 256-3’20 

Lavetnier — Garden . 313 


Magnolia— Chinese . 86 

Manure — Pitching . 149 

iilanurn  Tank . 245 

Map— Vie.inity  of  Richmond  207 
Map-Works  around  Petersb’g208 

Maple — Wliite . 185 

Mildew-  Grape . 217 

Mountain—"  Old  Man  oP’  272 
Moullis— Shut  and  Open. .  (4).  .23 

N 

Ncvrspaiicr  Box . 8 


O 


Olive  Tree  Branch . 317 

Orcidd— Bulterfly  Flower...  49 
Organ  Grinder . 90 


Owl — Snowy . 13 

Ox  Yoke  Attachment  . 44 

P 

Pear  Tree— Bush,  18— Dwarf, 

17— Pyramidal .  18 

Pinus  Pumilio . 17 

Plow — Cliain  Atlacliment,  244 
Hutchinson’s,  (2)  245 — Sub¬ 
soil . 181 

Plowing— Best  Soil  at  Top,  242 
— Sward  Ground,  (4)  145 — 

Wet  Ground . 342 

Posts— Removing  . 77 

Potatoes,  (6)  44— Cutting,  148 — 

Dropping . 148 

Poultry — Asiatic  Fowls,  241 — 
Bantam  Fowls,  216 — Black 
Spanisli,  309 — Fountain,  174 

— French  Fowls . 216 

Prisoner  and  Birds . 288 

Pulley — U.se  of . 373 

Pump  for  Liquid  Maniirel2'l.  .213 
Puzzle — Figure. 159-1 91 — Laby- 
rimh,  3S3 —  Planting,  159— 
Wire.  ’255- Rebuses,  23-(2)  ,55 
-(2)  S9-;4)  !25-(2)  !.9-t2)  191- 
(2)  223-(2)  255-(2)  287-(2)  319- 
. . . 351-(2)  362 

It 


Rake— Buck . 213 

Rake  For  Couch  Grass . 341 

Road  Scraper .  45 

Root  Cutter  .  77 

Roots — Pit  for . .  342 

Ropes— Knols . (6)  ...305 

Ropes — Splicing - - - -  (4)  •  •  276 

Rose —  Moss . 284 

Rose— Sport  of . . . 220 

Rustic  Vase . . . (4).. 20 

S 

Sand  Box  Tree  Fruit . ]S8 

Sap  Boiler . 40 

Saw  Filing . . (4)..  14 

Scyllie — Proper  Form . 240 

Seat— Rustic . 217 

Seed  Time . .  152 

Shackles  for  Bulls,  etc .  213 

Sheep— .\m.  Merino,  75— Lau¬ 
rel,  ’240  —  Rack  (3)  369  — 
Shears,  Cirinding,  ISO  — 

Shears.  Holding  . . 180 

Siloes — Wooden  . 350 

Slioi  telling  Tall  Man . 160 


Sliovel — How  to  Hold . 340 

Shrub— Exocliorda  Grandiflora, 
•20— Daphne  Mezereurn,  H9-- 
Double  Deulzia,  252 — Sheep 

Laurel .  249 

Sink — Kitclien .  . 53 

Sleigli  Ride — Family . 48 

Snake  Nut .  . (2).. 49 

Snow  Plow,  373 — Push,  372 — 

Shovel...., . ..373 

Snow  Storm...  ...  (Vignette. .  33 

Socks — Clotli . 123 

Solanurn — Climbing. . 380 

Soldiers’  Return . 224 

Sparrows — European . 209 

Squash— Custard  Marrow.(2).317 

Stable  Fork — Wooden . 369 

Stack— Preventing  Leaning.  .276 

Stilch  in  Time  . 320 

Slump  Machine — Cheap . 114 

Swill  Barrel— Portable . 80 

T 

Tapioca . 381 

Timber — Felling . 372 

Tree  Digger — llarkness.  119— 
Felling.  240— Labels,  Bliss... 6 
Trout  at  Various  Ages. ..(3). .312 

V 


Vine — Alleghany . . . 66 

Vine — Climbing’  Solanurn 360 

Vinegar  Apparalns . 221 

W 

Wasliing  Machine — Doly’s _ 87 


Weeds— Bladrier  Campion,  277 
— Field  Horse  Tail,  (4)  250 — 
Groundsel,  220— Horse  Net¬ 
tle,  283 — Indian  Mallow.  314 
— Toad  Fla.x,  252 —  Toucii- 

me-Nnt . 217 

Weil  Curb,  180  —  Digging, 
Curbing,  273— Digging,  Der¬ 
rick,  etc.,  273  —  Digging, 

Wells . r  ...27-1 

Wlieat  Plant— Gi-ow'lli.  ,.(2)  ,308 

Windmill  -Amusing . . 310 

Wood— Splitting  Block - 82-372 

Wool— Folding  Table. _ _ _ 181 

Wool— Oily  Fleeces . 118 

Y 


Yard  Plans 


(4).. 50 


AMEMGAM  AG-MOELTERIST. 


December^ 


B  o  o  k:  s 


AND  PERIODICALS 


1865. 


OK 


Agriculture,  Horticulture,  Domestic  Economy,  etc., 

PUBC.ISHED  BY 

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An  interesting  work,  giving  new  and  peculiar  directions,  and  many 
illustrative  engravings,  for  determining  by  natural  marks  or  external 
signs,  the  quality  and  quantity  of  milk  a  cow  will  give,  length  of  time 
she  will  continue  in  milk,  etc.,  with  introductory  remarks  of  forty 
pages  on  the  Cow  and  Dairy.  Sixty-third  thousand.  8vo,  88  pp. 

Youatt  and  Martin  on  Cattle, . {New  edition,)  l 

Being  a  treatise  on  their  Breeds,  Management,  Diseases ;  a  full  his¬ 
tory  of  the  various  races  ;  their  origin,  breeding,  and  merits ;  their 
capacity  for  Beef  and  Milk.  By  \Y.  Youatt  and  W.  C.  L.  Martin.  A  *" 
complete  guide  for  the  Farmer,  the  Amateur,  and  Veterinary  Surgeon, 
with  many  Illustrations.  Edited  by  Ambrose  Stevens.  Cloth,  12mo, 
469  pp. 


50 


75 


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American  Farm-Book,  (R-  L-  Allen,) . {New  edition,)  1 

Or  a  Compend  of  American  Agriculture  ;  Being  a  Practical  Treatise 
on  Soils,  Manures,  Draining,  Irrigation,  Grasses,  Grain,  Roots,  Fruits, 
Cotton,  Tobacco,  Sugar-Cane,  Rice,  and  every  Staple  Product  of  the 
United  States ;  with  the  best  methods  of  Planting,  Cultivating,  and 
Preparation  for  Market.  Over  one  hundred  engravings.  Cloth,  12mo, 
325  pp. 

Boussingault’s  Rural  Economy, .  . {New  edition,)  1 

Rural  Economy  in  its  relations  with  Chemistry,  Physics,  and  Meteorol¬ 
ogy ;  or  CiiF-MisTRY  Applied  to  Agriculture  in  the  Principles  of  Farm 
Management,  the  Preservation  and  Use  of  Manures,  the  Nutrition  and 
Food  of  Animals,  and  the  General  Economy  of  Agriculture.  By  J.  B. 
Boussingault,  Member  of  Institute  of  France,  etc.  Translated,  with 
Introduction  and  Notes,  by  George  Law,  Agriculturist.  Cloth,  12mo, 
507  pp. 

French’s  Farm  Drainage, . .  .{New  edition,)  \ 

The  Principles,  Process,  .and  Effects  of  Draining  Land  with  Stones, 
Wood,  Drain-Plows,  Open  Ditches,  and  especially  with  Tiles  ;  includ¬ 
ing  Tables  of  Rainfall,  Evaporation,  Filtration,  Excavation,  Capacity 
of  Pipes,  cost  and  number  to  the  acre.  With  over  100  illustr.ations. 
The  best  work  on  Draining  published.  By  Judge  French,  of  New- 
Hampshire,  President  of  lilass.  Agricultural  College.  Cloth,  12mo, 
384  pp. 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry, . {New  edition,)  i 

Lectures  on  the  Application  op  Chemistry  and  Geology  to  Agri¬ 
culture.  New  edition,  with  an  Appendix,  containing  the  Author’s 
Experiments  in  Practical  Agriculture.  By  the  late  Jas.  F.  W.  John¬ 
ston,  M.A.,  F.R.SS.  L.  and  E.,  etc.,  etc.  This  is  an  American  edition 
of  the  large  and  extensive  English  work.  Cloth,  large  12mo,  709  pp. 

Horton’s  Elements  of  Scientific  Agriculture,  {New  Edition,) 

A  valuable  and  popuLar  treatise  on  the  Connection  between  Science 
and  the  art  of  Practic.al  Farming.  By  the  late  John  P.  Norton,  M.A., 
Professor  of  Scientific  Agriculture  in  Yale  College.  Cloth,  12mo,  218  pp. 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres,  and  the  Money  we  made  by  it. 

From  the  Twelfth  London  Edition,  with  an  Introduction  for  the  Amer¬ 
ican  Edition.  This  work  has  already  had  an  immense  sale,  both  in 
England  and  in  this  country.  It  is  written  by  a  lady,  and  while  con¬ 
veying  many  useful  suggestions,  it  has  almost  the  interest  of  a  romance. 
12mo,  126  pp.  New  Edition.  Price  in  neat  paper  covens,  30c.;  bound,  00c. 

Pedder’s  Land-Measurer  for  Farmers, . {New  edition,) 

A  convenient  Pocket  Companion,  showing  at  once  the  contents  of  any 
piece  of  laud,  when  its  length  and  width  are  known,  up  to  1500  feet 
either  way,  with  various  other  useful  farm  tables.  Cloth,  18mo,  144  pp. 


50 


60 


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75 


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60 


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AMERICAN  AG-RIOULTtJRIST. 


Todd’s  Young  Farmer's  Manual  and  Work-Shop, (-Yew  ec?’K,)$l  50 

Tlio  most  valuable  and  practical  work  before  the  public  as  a  guide  to 
the  various  Farm  Operations,  including  the  mechanical  part  of  agri¬ 
culture,  farm  implements,  edge  tools  and  how  to  put  them  in  order, 
fencing,  gates,  building,  etc.,  etc.  By  S.  Edwards  Todd,  a  practical 
Farmer.  Thoroughly  illustrated  with  engravings.  Cloth,  12mo,  459  pp. 

The  American  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia,  •  •  •  •  . . . . 6  00 

The  only  work  of  the  kind  yet  published  in  this  country  embracing 
every  tiling  connected  with  the  cultivation  of  the  Soil ;  the  Soil,  Man¬ 
ures,  Farm  Operations,  Different  Crops,  Implements,  Animals,  etc.,  etc. 

Upon  the  basis  of  Johnson’s  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia.  With  additions 
amounting  to  nearly  one  third  of  the  whole,  by  the  American  editor, 
Governeuk  Emersojt,  of  Fenn.  338  Illustrations.  Octavo,  118^ pp. 


Flax  Culture.. 


50 


A  new  and  'very  ■val'uahle  worle,  consisting  of  full  directions,  from  selec¬ 
tion  of  ground  and  seed  to  preparation  and  marketing  of  crop,  as  given 
by  a  number  of  experienced  growers.  8vo,  paper. 


Flowers. 


American  E.0se  Culturist,  fincluding  the  Dahlia,).  ..(Aina  edition.)  30 
Being  a  Practical  Treatise  on  the  Propagation,  Cultivation,  and  Man¬ 
agement  of  THE  KOSE,  to  which  are  added  full  directions  for  the  treat¬ 
ment  of  the  Dahlia.  In  neat  paper  covers.  12mo,  96  pp. 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers,  or  Flower-Garden, . 1  50 

In  which  are  described  the  various  Hardy  Herbaceous  Flowers,  An¬ 
nuals,  Shrubby  Plants,  and  Evergreen  Trees,  with  Directions  for  their 
Cultivation.  By  Joseph  Beeck,  Seedsman  and  Florist,  former  editor  of 
Few-England  Farmer,  and  Horticultural  Register.  Cloth,  12mo,  395  pp. 

Buist’s  American  Flo.wer-Garden  Directory, — {New  edition,)  1  50 

Containing  Practical  Directions  for  the  Culture  of  Plants  in  the  Flower- 
Garden,  Hot-House,  Green-House,  Booms  or  Parlor-Windows,  FOR 
EVERY  MONTH  IN  THE  YEAR  ;  with  descriptions  of  most  desirable 
plants,  soils,  transplanting,  erecting  a  Hot-House,  a  Green-House,  lay¬ 
ing  out  a  Flower-Garden,  etc.,  etc.  By  Kobert  Buist,  a  practical  Nur¬ 
seryman  and  Seed-Grower  of  Philadelphia.  Cloth,  12mo,  342  pp. 


Fruits. 


75 


Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide, . ^New  EdUnsm) 

Intended  Especially  for  the  American  Climate  ;  being  a  Practical 
Treatise,  with  Engravings,  on  the  Cultivation  of  the  Grape-Vine  in  each 
Department  of  Hot-House,  Cold  Grapery,  etc.  ;  with  Plans  for  the 
Construction  and  Heating.  By  Wm.  Cuorlton.  Cloth,  12mo,  204  pp. 

Cole’s  American  Fruit  Book, . . .  75 

Containing  Directions  for  Raising,  Propagating,  and  Managing  Fruit- 
Trees,  Shrubs,  and  Plants,  with  descriptions  of  the  best  varieties  of 
fruit,  etc.  18mo,  288  pp.  ' 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit-Grower’s  Guide, . {Hew  edition.)  1  50 

The  previous  Edition  of  this  Work  was  Thoroughly  Revised  ;  embrac¬ 
ing  all  the  new  and  valuable  Fruits,  with  the  latest  improvements  in 
their  Cultivation  ;  especially  adapted  to  the  wants  of  Western  Fruit- 
Growers  ;  full  Illustrations.  By  F.  R.  Elliott,  of  Ohio.  Cloth,  12mo, 

503  pp. 

Field’s  Pear  Culture, . . . {Nevi  edition)  1  25 

The  Pear  Garden  ;  a  Treatise  on  the  Propagation  and  Cultivation  of 
the  Pear  Tree,  with  instructions  for  Management  from  the  Seedling  to 
the  Bearing  Tree.  By  Thomas  W.  Field.  Illustrations.  Cloth,  12mo, 

286  pp. 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist, . (New  edition)  1  50 

This  is  the  latest  and  most  practical  work  issued  on  the  Culture  of  the 
Hardy  Grapes,  with  full  directions  for  all  departments  of  Propagation, 
culture,  etc.,  with  one  hundred  and  five  excellent  engravings,  illustrat¬ 
ing  the  various  operations  of  Planting,  Training,  Grafting,  etc.  By 
Andrew  S.  Fuller,  Practical  Horticulturist.  Cloth,  12mo,  262  pp. 

Fuller’s  Illustrated  Strawberry  Culturist,  {New  edition)  •paper,:  20 

A  new,  practical  little  work,  meeting  with  universal  favor.  It  gives  a  full, 
list  of  varieties,  down  to  the  latest  valuable  seedlings.  Paper,  12mo,  48  pp.  ^ 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture, . {New  edition,}  |  75 

A  Manual  for  the  Cultivation  of  the  Strawberry  ;  with  a  Description  - 
of  the  Best  Varieties.  Also,  Notes  on  the  Raspberry,  Blackberry,  Cur¬ 
rant,  Gooseberry,  and  Grape.  By  R.  G.  Pardee.  Cloth,  12mo,  157  pp. 


Gardening. 

Buist’s  Family  Kitchen-Gardener, . {New  edition)  1  00 

An  excellent  Practical  work.  Containing  Plain  and  Accurate  Descrip¬ 
tions  of  all  the  Different  Species  and  Varieties  o.  Culinary  Veget.ables, 
with  their  Botanical,  English,  French,  and  German  Names,  alphabetic¬ 
ally  arranged  ;  with  full  Directions  for  the  Best  Mode  of  Cultivaling 
i'  them  in  the  Garden  or  under  Glass.  By  Robert  Buist.  Cloth,  12mo, 

216  pp. 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener, . . .  75 

A  Treatise  on  the  Laying  Out  and  Management  of  Gardens.  By  Wil¬ 
liam  CoBBETT.  Though  an  old  work,  it  is  one  which  will  find  a  place 
m  every  considerable  library,  as  the  production  of  a  remarkable  man. 

While  it  is  marked  by  the  author’s  peculiarities,  it  is  so  full  of  plain 
common-sense,  that  it  is  worthy  of  behig  kept  in  print.  Cloth,  12mo, 

230  pp. 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text-Book, . -  —  60 

Directions  for  the  forming  and  management  of  the  Kitchen  Garden,  the 
culture  and  use  of  Vegetables,  Fruits,  and  Medicinal  Herbs.  Cloth, 

18mo,  306  pp. 

Green  and  Hot-Houses. 

Leuchars’  How  to  Build  Hot-Houses, . {New  edition)  I  50 

GREEN-HOUSES,  GRAPERIES,  etc.,  etc.,  and  how  to  Ventilate  them. 
Illustrated  with  numerous  engravings.  By  Robert  B.  Leuchars,  Gar¬ 
den  Arcliitect.  This  is  the  only  work  published  in  this  country,  spe¬ 
cially  devoted  to  this  subject.  Cloth,  12mo,  366  pp. 


Hedges,  Etc. 


Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens, . {New  edition)  1  5o 

This  is  the  only  book  wholly  devoted  to  the  cultivation,  pruning,  and 
management  of  plants  suitable  for  American  hedging,  especially  the 
Madura,  or  OSAGE  ORANGE  ;  illustrated  with  engravings  of  plants, 
implements,  and  processes  ;  to  which  is  added  a  Treatise  on  Evergreens, 
their  varieties,  propagation,  culture,  etc.  By  J.  A.  Warder.  12mo,  291  pp. 

Hogs. 

Youatt  and  Martin  on  the  Hog, . {New  Edition)  \  00 

A  treatise  on  the  breeds,  management,  and  medical  treatment  of 
Swine,  with  directions  for  salting  pork  and  curing  bacon  and  hams. 

By  Wm.  Youatt,  V.S.,  and  W.  C.  L.  Martin.  American  edition,  edited 
by  Ambrose  Stevens.  Illustrated  with  engravings.  Cloth,  12mo,  231pp. 

Hop  Culture, . {New) 

Practical  Details  fully  given,  from  the  Selection  and  Preparation  of 
the  Soil,  Setting  and  Cultivation  of  the  Plants,  to  Picking,  Drying, 
Pressing,  and  Marketing  the  Crop.  Plain  Directions  by  Ten  Experi¬ 
enced  Cultivators.  Illustrated  with  over  forty  engravings.  Edited 
by  Prof.  George  Tuurber,  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 

8vo,  paper. 


40 


Horses. 


Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horse-Keepers,.?'. . {New  Edition)  \  75 

This  is  the  best  practical  work  on  the  Horse,  prepared  in  this  country. 

A  Complete  Manual  for  Horsemen,  embracing  :  How  to  Breed  a 
Horse  ;  How  to  Buy  a  Horse  ;  'How  to  Break  a  Horse ;  How  to  Use  a 
Horse  ;  How  to  Feed  a  Horse ;  How  to  Physic  a  Horse  (Allopathy  or 
Homceopathy  ;)  How  to  Groom  a  Horse  ;  How  to  Drive  a  Horse ;  How 
to  Ride  a  Horse,  etc.,  and  Chapters  on  Mules  and  Ponies,  etc.  By 
the  late  Henry  William  Herbert  (Frank  Forester.)  Beautifully  Il¬ 
lustrated  throughout.  Cloth,  12mo,  425  pp. 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse-Doctor, . .  .{New  Edition)  l  50 

Containing  Practical  Observations  on  tub  Causes,  Nature,  and 
Treatment  of  Diseases  and  Lameness  of  Horses  ;  embracing  the  most 
reeent  and  approved  Methods,  according  to  an  enlightened  system  of 
Veterinary  Pr.actice,  for  Preservation  and  Restoration  of  Health.  Illus¬ 
trated.  By  Geo.  II.  Dadd,  M.D.,  Veterinary  Surgeon.  Cloth,  12mo, 

432  pp. 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  and  Physiology  of  the  Horse, . 3  50 

A  very  large  Octavo,  containing  Twenty  pull-page  Anatomical 
Illustrations  ;  with  Instructions  in  Dissection,  and  mode  of  making 
Anatomical  Preparations,  and  a  Glossary  of  Veterinary  Technical¬ 
ities,  Toxicological  Chart,  and  Dictionary  of  Veterinary  Science. 


Any  of  the  above  books  win  be  sent  ps'e-paid.  to  any  Post-Office  in  the  United  States  on  receipt  of  the  price. 


AMERICAN  AG-RICELTERIST. 


iv 


Judd  S(‘  Co.,  JRgricmltwrml  MooU  Wwhlishers^  41  ^urk  M&w^  JYew-W&rU, 


75 


Stewart’s  Stable  Book, . {N'ew  Edition,)  $i  50 

A  treatise  on  the  management  of  liorses,  in  relation  to  stabling,  groom¬ 
ing,  feeding,  watering,  and  working,  construction  of  stables,  ventila¬ 
tion,  appendages  of  stables,  management  of  the  feet  and  of  diseased 
.and  defective  horses.  By  John  Stewart,  Veterinary  Surgeon.  With 
Iv  oios  and  Additions,  adapting  it  to  American  food  and  climate.  By  A.  B. 

Allen,  former  Editor  of  American  Agriculturist.  Cloth,  12mo,  878  pp. 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse, . {New  Edition,)  1  50 

The  Structure  and  Disesises  of  the  Horse,  Eemedies,  Eules  to  Buyers, 
Breakers,  Slioers,  etc.  Youatt’s  work  somewhat  simplified  and 
brought  down  by  W.  C.  Spooner,  M.R.C.  V.S.  ;  to  which  is  prefixed  an 
account  of  the  Breeds  in  the  United  States  and  Canadas,  by  Hon.  Henry 
S.  E.andall.  Illustrated  with  numerous  Engravings.  Cloth,  12mo,  483  pp. 

Cole’s  American  Veterinarian, . {Eew  Edition,) 

Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals,  showing  the  Causes,  Symptoms,  and  Ee- 
inedies,  and  rules  for  Bestoring  and  Preserving  Health  by  good  manage¬ 
ment,  with  directions  for  Training  and  Breeding.  By  S.  W.  Cole. 

Cloth,  18mo,  288  pp. 

House-Keeping. 

Skillful  Housewife, . {New  Edition,) 

Or,  Complete  Guide  to  Domestic  Cookery,  Taste,  Comfort,  and  Econ¬ 
omy,  embracing  659  Eecipes,  with  many  valuable  hints  pertaining  to 
household  duties,  the  care  of  health.  Education  of  Children,  Gardening, 

Birds.  By  Mrs.  B.  G.  Abell.  Cloth,  12mo,  216  pp. 

Landscape  Gardening. 

Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening  and  Rural  Architecture.  6 

The  most  complete  and  valuable  work  ever  issued  on  Landscajje  Gar¬ 
dening  in  North-America,  for  the  Improvement  of  Country  Eesidences  ; 
containing  full  Directions  for  every  thing  connected  with  Laying  out 
and  adorning  the  Rural  Home,  the  Grounds,  the  Gardens,  the  Build¬ 
ings,  the  Trees  and  Plants,  etc.,  with  principles  of  taste  so  stated  as  to 
ad.apt  the  work  to  all  classes.  Splendidly  Illustrated  with  many  Steel 
and  fine  Wood  Engravings.  By  the  late  A.  J.  Downing.  Kew  Edition, 
Enlarged,  Newly  Illustrated  and  Revised,  with  Supplement,  by  Henry 
Winthrop  Sargent.  Octavo,  534  pp.  Extra  cloth,  gilt,  beveled  bds. 

Smith’s  Landscape  Gardening, . {New  Edition,) 

Practical  Notes  on  Country  Residences,  Vill.as,  Park.s,  Pleasurb- 
Grounds,  Lawns,  Gardens,  etc.,  by  Chas.  H.  J.  Smith,  Landsc.ape  Gar¬ 
dener,  etc.  ;  with  Notes  and  Additions  adapting  it  to  American  Use,  by 
Hon.  Lem'is  F.  Allen,  author  of  Bural  Architecture,  etc.  Cloth,  12mo, 


75 


50 


I  60 


307  pp. 


Manures. 


Dana’s  Muck  Manual, . . . .  .{New  Edition,)  1  25 

A  JIanual  for  Farmers  ;  treating  of  Soils,  Manures,  Composts,  etc.,  and 
especially  of  the  important  subject  of  using  MUCK,  the  great  nat¬ 
ural  fertilizer  of  the  country.  By  Samuel  L.  Dana.  Cloth,  12mo,  312  pp. 


Onion  Culture. 


Onions:  How  to  Raise  them  Profitably, . {New  Edition,) 

Being  the  Practical  Details,  from  Selection  of  Seed  and  Preparation 
of  Ground  to  Harvesting  and  Marketing  the  Crop,  given  very 
plainly  by  Seventeen  PraeticadM  Onion  Growers  of  long  experience, 
residing  in  difierent  parts  of  the  country.  No  more  valuable  work  of 
its  size  was  ever  issued.  Octavo,  32  pp.  Neat  paper  covers. 


20 


Rabbits. 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Pancier, . . . {New  Edition,) 

Breeding,  Rearing,  Feeding,  and  General  Management  of  Babbits  : 
their  Diseases  and  Remedies  ;  Full  Directions  for  the  Construction  of 
Hutolies,  Babbitries,  etc.  ;  Recipes  for  Cooking  and  Dressing  for  the 
Table.  Numerous  Illustrations.  By  C.  N.  Bement,  author  of  Poul¬ 
terer's  Companion,  etc.  12mo,  101  pp.,  in  neat  illustrated  paper  covers. 


30 


Sheep. 


00 


Randall’s  Pine-Wool  Sheep  Husbandry, . {New  Edition,)  1 

Giving  Prominent  Characteristics  of  Different  Breeds ;  Principles  of 
breeding  Correctly ;  practical  and  concise  rules  for  Selecting  the  Best, 
and  making  the  best  Crosses  for  Wool  and  Mutton.  By  Hon.  Henry 
S.  Randall,  LL.D.  12mo,  189  pp. 

Randall’s  Sheep  Husbandry, . {New  Edition,)  \  50 

With  an  account  of  the  different  Breeds  of  Sheep ;  Selecting  the  Best 
for  Wool  and  for  Mutton;  Rules  for  Crossing;  Practical  Details  for 
Rearing;  Summer  and  Winter  Management ;  Treating  Diseases ;  with 
New  Chapters  by  Henry  S.  Randall  and  G.  W.  Kendall  on  Sheep  Hus¬ 
bandry  in  Texas,  with  Portraits  of  different  Breeds,  Illustrations  of 
Sheep  Folds,  and  other  Articles  in  Sheep  Husbandry.  Octavo,  338  pp. 

Youatt  on  Sheep . {New  Edition,)  1  00 

With  details  for  Breeding  and  Bearing  ;  Notes  on  Different  Breeds  ; 
Summer  and  Winter  Management ;  Characteristics  of  different  Kinds 
of  Wool,  with  Portraits  of  different  Breeds  of  Sheep.  Octavo,  160  pp. 

Shepherd’s  Own  Book, . {New  Edition,)  2  25 

A  General  Book  on  Sheep;  Including  (bound  together)  Youatt  on 
Sheep,  and  Sheep  Husbandry  by  Randall,  with  his  Letter  on  Sheep 
Husbandry  in  Texas,  and  Geo.  W.  Kendall’s  Management  of  Sheep  in 
Texas,  witli  Portraits  of  Sheep  and  other  Illustrations.  Octavo,  500  pp. 


Tobacco. 


25 


Tobacco  Culture;  Full  Practical  Details, . {New  Edition,) 

This  is  by  far  the  most  useful  and  valuable  work  ever  issued  on  this 
subject.  It  contains  full  details  of  every  process  from  the  Selection  and 
Preparation  of  the  Seed  and  Soil,  to  tne  Harvesting,  Curing,  and  Mar¬ 
keting  the  Crop,  with  Illustrative  Engravings  of  the  operations.  Tlie 
work  was  prepared  by  Fourteen  Experienced  Tobacco  Growers,  residing 
in  different  parts  of  the  country.  It  also  contains  Notes  on  the  To¬ 
bacco  Worm,  with  Illustrations.  Octavo,  48  pp.,  in  neat  paper  covers. 

Weeds  and  Plants. 

American  Weeds  and  Useful  Plants, . [New  Edition,)  i  75 

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of  the  Structure  of  Plants.  By  Wjr.  Darlington,  M.D.,  and  Prof.  Geo. 
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Bridgeman’s  Kitchen-Gardener’s  Instructor, .  75 

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Harris’  Insects  Injunous  to  Vegetation,  IMain, . 3  50 

Do.  Do.  Do.  Colored,  ....  4  50 

Hints  to  Riflemen  by  Cleveland, .  1  50 

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AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  THE 

ITarm,  Grarcleii,  and.  Honseliold. 


‘•AGRIOUI-TIIRE  18  THE  MOST  IIEAETIIFDL,  MOST  USEFUL,  AN»  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OF  MAN.”  — WaSBIROVOH* 


ORAIVGE  .fUI>I>,  A.M., 

PtTBLISHEK  AND  PROPB.IETOK. 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IH  1842. 

Publiskecl  both  in  Rnglish  and  German. 


f  SI. 50  PER  ANNUM,  IN  ADVANCB 
j  SINGLE  NUMBER,  15  CENTS. 

\  For  Contents,  Terms,  etc,,  see  page  33. 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  1.  NEW-YORK,  JANUARY.  1865.  NEW  SEKIES— No.  216. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1804,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  the  Clerk's  Office  of  tlie  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  tlie  Soutliern  District  of  New-York. 
tW~  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  i/'eacli  article  be  credited  to  Amefican  Agriculturist. 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  January. 


A  new  year  has  come — may  it  be  a  happy  one 
to  all  our  readers,  and  may  all  the  good  plans 
made  for  the  future  be  carried  out.  Our  vig¬ 
nette  is  suggestive  of  the  farmer’s  most  valu¬ 
able  winter  crop — the  crop  of  ideas.  Books  are 
multiplying,  and  so  are  readers.  Cultivators  of 
the  soil  are  every  year  realizing  the  advantages 
of  gathering  from  books  the  views  of  scientific 
men,  and  a  knowledge  of  the  practices  of  other 
farmers,  that  they  may,  by  comparing  them  with 
their  own,  improve  their  theories  and  their  sys¬ 
tems  of  farming.  In  this  most  interesting  period 
of  our  country’s  history,  no  farmer  can  afford 
to  neglect  agricultural  reading.  The  exigencies 
of  the  time  make  new  crops  profitable ;  they 
introduce  new  notions,  open  new  markets,  and 
give  us  new  views  upon  agricultural  as  well 
as  upon  political  and  humanitarian  subjects. 

Farm  Accounts. — No  farmer  is  true  to  his  own 
interests  who  does  not  keep  just  as  accurate 
accounts  of  his  business,  as  the  best  “  business 
man.”  It  is  not  so  easy  to  keep  accounts,  as  where 
every  thing  has  a  definite  money  value,  but  it 
may  and  should  be  done ;  and  after  a  little  prac¬ 
tice  we  may  soon  get  in  the  way  of  placing  a 
just  value  on  the  labor  of  men  and  animals,  our 
own  time,  etc.  One  of  the  most  important 
things  is  a  correct  inventory  of  every  tiling  that 
has  value — of  investments  and  stock  in  trade ; 
of  debts  and  dues ;  of  live  stock  and  imple¬ 
ments;  of  manures  in  the  ground  and  in  the 
compost  heap,  etc.,  etc.  Were  a  farmer  only  to 
take  a  good  inventory  once  a  year,  and  keep  no 
other  accounts,  it  would  be  an  invaluable  aid 
to  him  in  regulating  his  future  management. 

Agricultural  Reading. — I.ook  over  our  book  list. 


Encourage  the  formation  of  an  agricultural  li¬ 
brary  in  your  neighborhood,  where  many  books 
and  periodicals  may  be  kept  for  consultation. 

Building. — Keep  every  thing  neat  and  tid)’’, 
within  and  about  the  buildings ;  tools,  chains, 
etc.,  left  out  may  be  covered  up  in  the  snow, 
and  easily  lost.  Repairing  and  painting  imple¬ 
ments  are  always  in  order  if  the  weather  favors. 

Cellars. — Open  the  windows  and  give  change 
of  air  on  warm,  dry  days ;  remove  any  decaying 
vegetables.  Protect  against  frost  and  vermin. 

Cattle. — Oxen  ought  to  be  shod,  and  kept 
sharp,  whether  the  ground  is  slippery  or  not. 
Feed  in  accordance  with  the  labor  demanded  of 
them,  hut  on  no  account  let  them  fall  off  in 
flesh.  Oxen  low  in  flesh  are  more  liable  to 
meet  with  accidents  than  others,  and  if  a  poor 
lousy  steer  breaks  a  leg,  nobody  wants  the  beef, 
and  it  is  not  fit  to  eat ;  not  so  with  one  in  good 
condition.  Young  cattle  ought  not  to  be  pamp¬ 
ered,  but  well  fed,  and  kept  in  growing  order. 

Cows. — Milk  to  within  about  six  weeks  of 
calving ;  young  cows  certainly  to  that  time,if  pos¬ 
sible,  to  encourage  a  habit  of  holding  out  well. 
In  icy  weather  be  very  careful  of  cows  with  calf. 

Farmers'  Cluhs. — Hold  frequent  meetings. — 
Discuss  the  farming  of  your  own  neighbor¬ 
hood,  and  how  it  may  be  improved.  Find  out 
who  has  got  the  best  seeds  of  various  kinds,  and 
secure  the  advantage  for  the  club.  Make  ob¬ 
servations  on  tlio  care  of  stock,  and  see  whose 
are  wintered  the  best,  and  most  conveniently. 

Fencing  Stuff. — Haul  in  that  cut  in  the  fall,  and 
work  it  out.  Poor  fences  make  bad  neighbors. 

Frost. — Defend  water  pipes  and  pumps  from 
frost.  Horse  dung  packed  round  them  in  barrels 
or  boxes  is  very  good,  if  not  allowed  to  reach 
the  water.  To  clear  a  pipe  from  ice,  see  Basket. 

Grain. — Grind  all  fed  out,  except  for  sheep. 
Sliell  corn  only  as  fast  as  wanted  for  use  or  sale. 
Give  rats  attention,  and  phosphorus  paste. 

Harness  and  Carriage  Tops. — Keep  clean,  and 
after  they  have  been  wet,  oil  them  thoroughly. 

Horses. — Be  very  watchful  of  breeding  mares 
in  icy  weatlier.  Keep  horses  used  on  the  road 
well  calked.  See  page  10  on  breaking  horses. 

Ice. — The  earlier  ice  is  secured,  the  better.  If 
well  put  in,  in  the  coldest  weather,  it  is  a  good 
job,  out  of  the  way.  Use  clear,  good  ice  only. 

Manure. — Use  all  diligence  to  increase  the 
manure  and  compost  heaps.  Gather  the  dung 
in  the  yard,  and  compost  it  with  muck.  Ab¬ 
sorbents  in  the  stables  should  take  up  all  the 
urine,  and  keep  the  air  pure  and  wholesome. 

Markets. — Hold  no  produce  after  a  good  price 
is  offered.  Grain  shrinks,  heats,  or  is  destroyed 
by  vermin  very  often,  and  beeves  and  sheep, 
after  they  are  fit  for  market,  are  seldom  kept 
with  profit  more  than  a  few  weeks  at  most. 

Poultry. — Feed  scraps  of  meat  or  pounded 
bones  frequently.  Give  warm  light  quarters, 


and  dry  ashes  to  dust  themselves  with,  fresh 
water  (but  warm),  daily,  and  keep  the  water 
and  feed  vessels  scrupulously  clean.  Thus  avoid 
disease  among  poultiy;  and  get  plenty  of  eggs. 

Roads  and  Paths. — If  every  one  does  his  full 
share  (and  a  little  more),  towards  breaking 
roads,  and  making  paths  about  the  neighbor¬ 
hood,  general  comfort  will  be  enhanced.  See 
basket  item  about  clearing  ice  from  steps,  etc. 

Roots. — Feed  with  care,  so  as  to  have  some 
always  on  hand  for  animals  with  young,  and  for 
a  change  of  diet  if  an  animal  gets  off  its  feed. 

Seeds. — Look  out  in  advance  for  good  fresh 
seeds  of  all  kinds.  Try  all  that  are  the  least 
doubtful,  in  pots  or  boxes  of  earth,  carefully  at¬ 
tended,  and  neither  too  wet  nor  too  dry.  Never 
keep  seeds  in  air-tight  or  very  close  vessels. 

Sheep  should  not  be  confined  in  close 
stables;  but,  except  during  storms,  should  have 
the  range  of  a  large  stock  yard,  or  lot.  Feed  in 
well-constructed  racks,  and  feeding  troughs. 
Turnips  and  beets,  fed  freely,  are  very  fattening 
and  more  economical  generally  than  corn. 
Whatever  grain  is  fed,  should  be  given  regu¬ 
larly  ;  even  a  very  small  quantity  is  well,  if  it 
can  be  fed  so  that  each  sheep  shall  get  its  share. 
Salt  ought  to  be  kept  constantly  where  the 
sheep  can  get  at  it.  If,  however,  it  has  not  been, 
they  must  be  gradually  accustomed  to  it.  The 
notion  that  sheep  do  not  need  water  in  winter, 
is  a  mistake.  It  is  much  better  for  them  to 
have  access  to  water  which  does  not  freeze. 

Swine. — The  quantity  of  manure  whicli  a  few 
hogs  will  make,  if  plenty  of  muck  and  litter  be 
thrown  from  time  to  time  into  tlieir  pen,  and 
the  whole  be  kept  under  cover,  is  very  great. 
Hogs,  except  for  breeding,  are  of  no  value  to 
Eastern  farmers,  with  few  exceptions,  if  they  be 
not  employed  to  work  over  manure.  Feed  some 
raw  roots,  potatoes,  turnips,etc.,to  breeding  sows. 

Timber  Land. — Clean  the  wood  lots  of  crooked, 
broken  or  hollow  trees,  and  secure  firewood  in 
this  way,  and  do  it  at  the  present  season. 

Tools. — Get  in  your  orders  for  mowers,  and  all 
heavy  implements  early,  so  as  to  be  well  and 
promptly  served ;  and  delay  no  needed  repairs. 


Work  in  tlie  Orchard  and  ]¥ursery 

No  doubt  that  many  new  subscribers  will  tills 
month  read  the  calendar  for  the  first  time,  and 
we  ask  them  if  they  have  all  the  fruit  they  need 
for  their  own  use,  or  all  they  can  market  in  a 
few  years  from  the  present.  If  they  have  not, 
let  them  at  once  resolve  to  plant  trees  the  com- 
in  spring,  and  begin  now  to  make  prepara¬ 
tions  by  deciding  upon  varieties  and  sending 
ing  their  orders  to  some  reliable  nurseryman. 
Get  the  experience  of  the  neighborhood  as  sug¬ 
gested  on  page  14,  or  bring  up  this  subject  in 
your  farmers’  club,  if  you  have  one,  and  take 
votes  of  those  present  on  the  different  varieties. 

Cut  cions  in  mild  weather  and  keep  in  sand  in  a 


2 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


cool  place.  They  should  be  taken  fi'Oin  the  thrifty 
growth  of  last  season,  and  be  carefully  labelled. 

The  trees  already  planted  need  some  care.  The 
young  orchard  should  be  well  fenced  and  cattle 
kept  from  browsing  on  the  young  trees.  If  a  limb  is 
broken  by  accident,  the  wound  is  to  be  neatly  pared 
and  covered  with  grafting  wax  or  shellac  varnish. 

If  the  weather  is  mild,  considerable  preparatory 
work  may  be  done,  such  as  draining  if  the  ground  be 
not  thoroughly  dry,  excavating  holes  for  trees,  etc. 

The  nurseryman  will  find  occupation  in  root  graft¬ 
ing  and  cutting  l)ack  and  shaping  the  stock  grown 
last  year.  He  should  accumulate  a  store  of  labels, 
moss,  and  all  the  needed  packing  materials,  and  get 
thoroughly  ready  to  attend  to  the  spring  trade. 

Kitdicai  €ji:ti’494!ii. — There  is  little  to  do 
here  except  to  take  care  of  the  few  things  wintered 
over,  and  to  pl.au  out  and  prepare  for  spring  work. 

If  water  stands  on  parsnips,  spinach,  and  other 
erops  left  in  the  ground  over  winter,  surface  drains 
may  be  m.ade  to  let  it  off.  Keep  fences  tight  and 
fates  closed,  so  that  no  stray  animals  do  mischief. 

There  is  now  sufficient  leisure  to  review  last  sea¬ 
son’s  work  and  see  what  may  be  improved  upon. 
Map  out  the  garden  and  determine  on  the  location 
of  the  princip.al  crops,  ensuring  proper  rotation. 
Whenever  the  weather  and  state  of  the  soil  are 
favorable,  drains  may  be  laid  and  plowing  be  done. 

Bean  Poles,  Pea  Brush,  and  all  similar  stuff  ai'e 
more  conveniently  cut  during  winter.  If  the  por¬ 
tion  which  enters  the  ground  be  dipped  in  coal  tar, 
or  in  a  solution  of  blue  vitriol  they  will  last  longer. 

Cold  Frames— G'w a  air  on  mild  days,  but  keep 
all  closed  during  severe  weather  and  at  night.  Give 
water  only  when  necessary  to  keep  the  plants 
from  wilting.  Trap  or  poison  mice,  if  troublesome. 

Hot  beds. — Rep.air  and  strengthen  old  frames  ; 
glaze  and  repaint  sash  if  they  need  it,  and  make  new 
ones.  Accumulate  an  abundant  stock  of  manure, 
and  have  a  good  supply  of  rieh  mould  under  shelter. 

Seed.'i. — Keep  nothing  but  good  varieties  and  true 
to  kind.  If  necessary  to  buy  seeds,  do  so  early. 

Frilit  Crai’den. — Things  here  are  at  rest, 
and  there  is  little  to  do  except  to  see  that  no  harm 
comes  to  the  plants.  Those  covered  need  the  pro¬ 
tecting  material  replaced  if  it  blows  or  washes  off. 

Flower  Garden  and  Fawn. — If  the 

tender  plants  are  properly  protected,  the  chief  care 
is  to  look  after  the  injury  done  by  gales  or  heavy 
snow  which  sometimes  break  down  the  limbs ; 
snow  is  troublesome  with  evergreens  and  should  be 
shaken  out  of  the  trees  before  it  becomes  compact. 

Much  can  often  be  done  in  this  month  at  making 
roads  and  paths,  and  other  work  of  construction.  In 
all  projected  improvements  it  will  be  found  much 
more  satisfaetory  to  sketch  the  plans  on  paper  and 
subject  them  to  the  criticism  of  judicious  friends. 
The  present  is  a  good  time  to  decide  where 
evergreens  shall  be  planted  at  the  proper  season. 

Greeii  and  IIot*Iloii$es. — Everything 
should  be  looking  at  its  best  in  the  houses  for  bloom¬ 
ing  plants  ;  and  in  those  where  plants  are  placed 
merely  to  protect  them  from  cold,  and  growth  is  not 
looked  for,  clean  pots,  neatly  trimmed  and  tied  up 
plants  should  be  the  rule. 

Bulbs. — Proper  management  in  bringing  them 
forward  in  suecession,  secures  flowers  all  winter. 

Camellias. — Give  more  water  and  occasionally  sy¬ 
ringe  the  foliage ;  ventilate  freely. 

Cactuses. — Almost  all  of  this  family  need  to  be 
kept  moderately  dry  at  this  season  of  the  year. 

Calceolarias  and  Cinerarias. — Shift  to  the  pots  in 
which  they  are  to  bloom  and  water  moderately. 

Faschias. — Prune  and  repot  them  in  fresh  soil. 

Insects. — Fumigate  before  they  get  the  mastery. 
Use  >*bacco  smoke  for  green  fly,  and  sulphur  fumes 
for  ii-spidcr.  In  fumigating  with  sulphur  it  must 
not  be  ignited  but  simply  laid  upon  the  cooler  part 
of  the  flue  where  its  odor  will  be  slowly  dissipated. 

Htunias  and  Verbenas — m.ay  be  encouraged  to 
grow  and  cuttings  taken  from  them  for  propagating. 

Boses. — Those  coming  into  flower  may  have  some 
liquid  manure  which  should  be  made  very  weak. 

Seeds  of  many  plants  for  spring  blooming  may  be 
»owu  now,  and  be  grown  in  pots. 


Ventilate  whenever  the  weather  will  allow  ;  use 
shutters  at  night  for  the  green-house  ;  during  very 
severe  cold  weather  they  may  be  kept  on  all  day. 

Wafer.— This  when  applied  to  plants,  should  be  of 
the  temperature  of  the  house  or  even  a  little  higher. 
Plants  which  are  not  growing  need  but  very  little. 

Apiary  in  J’annary.-  Preparedly  M.  Quin- 
by. — Bees  must  have  access  to  their  stores  every  few 
days.  In  colonies  that  have  but  little  honey,  it  is 
quite  sure  to  be  further  from  where  they  have  clus¬ 
tered  than  in  those  that  are  well  supplied.  Ice 
among  the  combs  will  prevent  their  reaching  it. 
If  moderate  weather  does  not  occur  sufficient¬ 
ly  often — say  at  intervals  of  two  or  three  weeks 
— to  melt  the  frost,  the  hives  should  be  warmed  ar- 
titicially.  The  hive  may  be  brought  into  a  warm 
room  for  a  few  hours  ;  the  bees  will  then  go  to  their 
sealed  honey  and  remove  into  the  cluster  a  supply 
for  several  d.ays.  Unless  the  room  is  dark,  they 
should  be  brought  iu  at  evening.  It  is  seldom  that 
severe  w'eather  is  sufficiently  protracted  to  make 
this  trouble  necessary  for  strong  heavy  stocks,  but 
if  such  weather  should  oceur,  and  prevent  the 
warmth  of  large  colonies  from  thawing  out  the 
frost  in  their  hives  during  the  month,  it  would  be 
necessary  to  warm  them  also.  In  handling  the 
hives,  avoid  any  jarring  and  any  unnecessary  dis¬ 
turbances.  If  there  is  sufficient  snow  to  cover  the 
hives  entirely,  it  may  remain,  as  it  affords  good  pro¬ 
tection  in  the  coldest  weather.  When  there  is  but 
little  around  the  bottom,  sweep  it  away.  Keep  the 
air  passages  free  from  dead  bees,  etc.  If  the  weather 
be  mild  and  the  sun  warm,  bees  m.ay  be  allowed 
to  fly — unless  there  is  light  snow  on  the  ground, 
in  which  case  the  hive  should  be  shaded  by  setting 
a  board  before  it.  Straw  hives  are  not  readily  af¬ 
fected  by  winter  sunshine,  and  when  the  air  is  suf¬ 
ficiently  warm  to  entice  them  out,  it  will  generally 
do  to  let  them  fly.  If  all  frost  leaves  the  hive  at 
any  time  so  that  it  may  be  raised  without  disturb¬ 
ing  the  bees,  the  filth,  dead  bees,  etc.,  should  be 
swept  out.  See  if  mice  have  not  found  or  made  a 
passage  into  the  hive.  They  sometimes  build  a 
nest  Inside,  and  decide  on  spending  the  winter.  To 
keep  them  out,  cover  all  passages  with  wire  cloth, 
except  a  space  for  the  bees  to  pass.  Bees  that  are 
housed  should  be  disturbed  as  littleas  possible.  Go 
among  them  occasionally  to  see  that  all  is  right. 


Twenty  Good  Premiums 

For  Voluaiie  1865. 

We  can  not  employ  traveling  or  local  Agents  to  solicit 
sobsci'iplions,  as  is  done  by  many  other  journals.  There 
is  no  margin  of  profit  out  of  which  to  pay  commissions. 
Tlie  (new)  terms  are  arranged  to  just  meet  the  present 
cost  of  supplying  tlie  pa[ier.  We  liope  “in  the  good 
time  coming”  to  make  a  reasonable  profit;  but  while 
waiting  for  better  times,  our  chief  aim  is  to  maintain  and 
increase  the  present  circulation.  Even  this  will  require 
some  effort,  for  at  the  usual  rate  of  mortality,  3000  or 
more  out  of  every  100,000  die  annually ;  while  many 
thousands  of  our  subscribers  liave  volunteered  in  the  ser¬ 
vice  of  tlie  country.  The  enterprising  men  who  take 
and  read  journals  of  this  kind  are  foremost  in  every  good 
work.  We  met  many  readers  in  the  camps  in  Virginia, 
and  we  hear  of  and  from  tliem  in  almost  every  part  of 
the  country  wliere  the  Union  armies  have  penetrated. 

We  shall  be  glad  to  send  the  Agriculturist  into  many 
new  families,  believing  that  its  mission  will  be  useful. 
All  who  aid  in  this  will  do  a  good  work. 

To  those  who  take  time  to  collect  clubs  of  subscri¬ 
bers,  we  offer  below  .as  premiums,  some  good  articles 
purchased  witli  funds  derived  from  other  resources  than 
subscription  money,  for  that  will  all  be  required  in  sup¬ 
plying  the  paper,  unless  printing  paper  and  l.abor  decline 

materially. - We  invite  every  subscriber,  everywhere, 

to  make  an  effort  to  obtain  one  of  the  good  articles 
offered  as  premiums.  They  are  alt  worth  securing. 

Send  along  the  names  as  fast  as  obtained,  that  the 
subscribers  may  begin  to  receive  their  papers  promptly. 
Wlicn  any  list  is  completed  notify  us  which  of  the  arti¬ 
cles  is  desired,  and  it  w  ill  be  promptly  forwarded.  To  save 
mistakes  and  the  keetungof  money  accounts,  send  with 
eacli  name  or  list  of  names  tlie  exact  subscription  money. 

To  avoid  errors  atid  save  immeose  labor  ui  looking  over 
our  books,  it  is  absolutely  csseyitial  that  every  name  design- 
edfor  a  premium  list  be  so  marked  when  sent  tn.  (Such 


names  will  be  credited  the  sender  in  a  separate  book,  aa 
fast  as  received — ready  for  instant  reference.) 

Old  and  new  subscribers  will  count  in  premium  lists 
but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
such  that  the  premiums  are  in  part  offered.  Premium, 
clubs  need  not  all  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  cour.se 
only  one  premium  will  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber. 


jc-i eiiiiuiuH  a.iia  j.erms^ 

For  Volume  24.  §  ” 

Open  to  all— No  Competition. 

Names  of  Premium  Arlicles.  ^ _ 

1 — Good  Books— ter7ns  below  * . 

3— Case  ol  Drawing  Instruments... .  ^  00 

3—  Best  Family  Clotlies-W ringer .  4:10  00 

4 —  Doty’s  Washing  Machine .  ..$12  00 

5“'Sewin"  Machine,  (Wheeler  &  Wilson),. OO 

6—  Four  Octave  Melodeon  (best) .  .$67  00 

7—  Five  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $112  00 

8—  Brown’s  Baby  Tender . :*;30  00 

9—  Brown’s  Baby  Tender . $42  00 

l®“J]Joodruft'’s  Mercurial  Barometer . $10  00 

11— Woodruff’s  Mercurial  Barometer . $15  oo 

154— Tlie  Amiarius . $12  oO 

13—  Ladies’ Rosewood  Writing  Desk . $12  00 

14 —  Gentleman’s  do  do  do  .  . $14  oo 

I.*!— Any  b*\ck  Volume  Agriculturist,  )  $1.50 

Two  do  do  do  £  S  $3  00 

17— Any  Three  do  do  do  }  .g-o  $4  .50 

JS-AnyFour  do  do  do  (  S?  $6  00 

J  ‘S'S  $7  50 

540— Strawberry  Plants— iSee  Te^'ms  below** . 


60 

TO 

80 

360 

400 

600 

180 

236 

70 

90 

80 

80 

90 

20 

25 

30 

40 

50 


lEl^iVo  charge  is  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  tht 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Books,  also  Premiums 
2,  15,  16,  17,  18,  19  and  20,  are  delivered  to  any  part 
of  the  United  States  and  Territories,  free  of  all  charges. 
The  other  articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  af¬ 
ter  leaving  the  manufactory  of  each,  Every  articli 

offered  is  new  and  of  the  very  best  manufacture 


notes  on  the  premiu.ms. 


”  Premium  t.—  Good  Books.— Any  person  sending  a 
club  0425  or  more  subscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  list 
on  page  23,  to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  each  subscriber 
sent  at  .$1 :  or  to  tlie  amount  of  60  cents  for  each  name  at  $1 
50.  Ihis  offer  extends  only  to  ciiibs  of  25  or  more  names. 
The  Books  will  be  sent  by  mail  or  express,  prepaid  by  us.— 
This  is  a  good  way  for  the  farmers  of  a  neigeborliood  to  get 
up  an  Agricultural  Library  for  general  use.  Several  Farm¬ 
ers’  Clubs  have  done  so. 


Premium  3.— The  Case  of  Drawing  Instruments  is  a 
Rosewood  Box,  containing  a  dozen  very  excellent  articles, 
of  polished  steel  and  brass— useful  for  sketching,  drawing, 
plotting,  laying  out  plans  of  land,  buildings,  etc.  There  are 
dividers  with  joints,  points,  markers,  pencil  holders,  ruling 
pens,  semicircles,  etc.,  etc.  Each  piece  is  fitted  into  a  velvet 
cusliion.  These  instruments  were  part  of  tiiose  ordered  from 
Paris  for  last  year’s  premiums,  wliich  arrived  too  late.  They 
could  liardly  be  imported  now  for  double  the  money.  AVhile 
useful  to  all,  notliing  better  could  lie  given  to  children  to  de¬ 
velop  their  tact,  taste,  and  mechanical  skill. 


Premium  3.— The  Clothes- Wringer  is  too  well  known 
to  need  description.  No  Iietter  or  more  useful  labor-saving 
and  clothes-sivving  implement  has  ever  been  introduced  into 
tlie  household.  We  give  only  tlie  “Universal  Clotlics- 
Wringer,”  fitted  with  cogs,  which  we  esteem  essential  to 
any  good  wringer.  Tlie  one  we  offer  (No.  2)  is  of  the  riglit 
size  for  general  family  use.  It  is  a  good  Christmas  or  New- 
Tear’s  present  for  your  care-worn  wife. 

l^remiiim  4:.— Doty's  Washing  ALachine  we  liave  tried 
ttiorouglily  for  nearly  a  year  past,  in  competition  witli 
many  otliers  sent  to  us,  and  in  Its  latest  form  tliis  seems  to 
be  an  improvement  upon  every  previous  machine  wc  liave 
tested.  It  is  compact,  and  easily  and  natur.ally  worked. 
Our  “better  half,”  wlio  lias  been  complimented  with  tlie 
gift  of  a  score  or  more  of  different  macliines  for  trial,  says 
tins  is  taken  to  most  kindly  by  the  “  lielp,”  and  that  slie  can 
not  persuade  tliem  to  use  any  otlier  while  tliis  is  at  liand. 
The  machines  sent  to  those  entitled  to  them  as  premiums 
will  be  forwarded  fi'om  Janesville,  Wis.,  to  those  living  in 
Oliio  and  furtlier  west ;  and  fi-ora  the  manufacturers’  New 
York  Warehouse  to  those  living  cast  of  Ohio.  Send  to 
Messrs.  Doty  Brothers,  Janesville,  Wis.,  fora  descriptive  cir¬ 
cular,  wliicli  will  be  supplied  free. 

Premium  .T.— Woman’s  Greatest  Boon.  We  would  ad¬ 
vise  a  man  to  forego  a  tiireslier,  and  tliresli  wheat  witli  a 
flail,  ratlier  tlian  to  see  the  wife  wear  her  healtli,  vigor,  and 
life  away,  in  tlie  everlasting  “stitch,  stitch,  stitch,"  when  a 
Sewing  Macliine  can  be  obtained.  Tlie  Wheeler  &  Wilson,  or 
some  other  good  in.achine,  is  an  Inv.aluable  aid  in  every 
household.  We  liave  liad  several  dift'erent  machines  on  trial, 
and  after  six  years’  service  tlie  Wheeler  &  Wilson  lias  taken 
precedence  as  tlie  best  where  all  kinds  of  sewing  are  to  be 
done  in  tlie  family.  A  large  number  of  persons  have  in  the 
past  years  secured  one  of  these  premium  macliines  as  Clirist- 
mas  or  New  Year’s  presents  for  the  home  circle. 

Premiums  G  tfe  7— We  have  had  one  of  Geo.  A.  Prince 
&  Co.’s  large  Jfelodeons  in  our  Sunday  School  room  for  five 
years,  wliere  it  lias  given  the  liighest  satisfaction,  and  in  all 
tills  time  it  has  not  liad  the  slightestrepair  or  tuning.  We 
can  recommend  tliis  instrument  very  lilglily.  Send  a  P.  O. 
stamp  to  Geo.  A.  Prince  &  Co.,  Buffalo,  N,  Y„  and  get  an 
lllnstrated  descriptive  catalogue,  giving  sizes,  prices,  etc. 
Tlie  Premium  Melodeons  will  be  forwarded  direct  from  the 
manufactory  ready  boxed,  by  railroad,  steamboat  or  ex¬ 
press,  ns  directed  by  the  recipient.  OS'-  It  is  very  easy  for 
the  members  of  a  Congregation  to  make  up  a  club  of  sub¬ 
scribers  to  the  Agriculturist,  and  get  one  of  tliese  Melo¬ 
deons  for  tlie  Church  or  Snnd.ay  Scliool  room.  Many 
cliurches  liave  done  so  since  we  first  oflered  tliis  premium. 

Premium  8  Jiiul  9.— Tlie  Baby  Tender  linppens  to 
be  BO  well  described  in  Dec.  No.,  tliat  we  need  add  nothlnp 
further  liere.  We  select  two  styles  lliat  will  meet  the  wants 
of  the  larger  class.  More  costly  ones,  in  a  liiglier  s'yle  of 
finisli  (tliongh  not  more  effective,)  will  be  supplied  for  a 
proportionably  greater  number  of  names. 

Premiums  10  aiul  11.—  Woodruff's  AtercurUn  Bar 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


3 


t-meters.  These  are  the  best  instruments  we  know  of  for  the 
iirice.  Send  to  tlie  manufacturer,  Cliarles  Wilder,  Peter- 
boro.  New  Hampsliirc,  for  a  circular  giving  engravings  and 
a  full  description  of  tlie  instruments.  They  are  so  portable 
that  tlie  manufacturer  will  warrant  the  safe  deliver//  to  the 
recipients  of  every  instrument  given  by  us  as  a  premium,  if 
not  to  be  seat  beyond  the  Rocky  Mountains.  We  offer  two 
forms,  botli  of  which  are  effective  and  accurate,  differing 
mainly  in  the  style  of  case.  Both  have  a  thermometer  and 
vernier.  The  $15  instrument  Is  of  eourse  the  most  desirable, 
though  either  one  of  them  will  be  highly  useful.  The  bar¬ 
ometer,  as  a  weather  indieator,  is  almost  as  valuable  to  the 
landsman  as  to  the  mariner.  There  are  many  times  in  a  year 
when  the  warning  of  a  barometer  will  save  more  than  its 
cost,  while  the  annual  interest  on  the  price  will  be  only  75 
cents  or  $1  a  year.  The  habit  of  observation,  and  of  scientific 
study,  cultivated  in  cliildren,  well  repay  the  cost  of  such  im¬ 
plements.  A  little  effort  will  secure  a  premium  one. 

Prcmiiim  Aquarim,  or  Water-Thrower,  is  an 

excellent  portable  force-pump,  useful  in  many  ways— to 
water  the  garden  or  plants,  to  wash  windows,  carriages,  etc. 
One  can  catch  up  the  implement,  carry  it  to  any  place,  and 
from  a  pail  throw  a  considerable  stream  of  water  20  to  30 
feet  or  more,  and  tlius  sometimes  put  out  an  incipient  fire 
that  could  not  he  readily  reached  otherwise.  It  hasa.iet- 
pipe,  and  also  a  rose,  or  sprinkler.  An  air-chamber  attached 
keeps  up  a  steady  stream.  Send  to  W.  &  B.  Douglas,  Mid¬ 
dletown,  Conn.,  and  get  a  circular  giving  fail  particuiars. 

Premiums  13  and  14.— These  are  very  neat,  portable 
Jtosewood  Writing  Desks,  which  can  be  closed  up  and  locked 
when  not  in  use.  When  closed.  No.  13  is  12  inches  long,  9  inches 
wide,  and  4  inches  high,  and  wili  hold  ordinary  letter  paper. 
No.  14  is  just  like  No.  13,  but  larger,  and  will  hold  foolscap 
paper.  They  are  both  of  fine  rosewood,  fimslied  with  brass 
corners  and  mountings.  No.  13  is  a  fine  present  for  a  teacher 
or  other  lady,  and  eitlier  one  is  convenient  for  any  person 
both  to  use  as  a  writing  desk  on  the  table  or  even  on 
the  lap,  and  to  keep  documents,  paper,  pens,  ink,  etc., 
safely  and  always  conveniently  at  hand  when  wanted. 

Premiums  15  to  19.— Each  volume  of  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  is,  in  a  certain  sense,  a  Cyclopasdia  of  information  for 
the  Farm,  Garden  and  Houselioid.  Any  volume,  from  16  to 
23  inclusive,  can  be  supplied  in  neat  new  numbers,  freshly 
printed  from  stereotype  plates,  with  Index  and  Title  page 
complete.  They  are  necessarily  sent  post-paid.  If  desired 
bound,  they  will  cost  $1  per  volume  extra  for  the  binding 
and  additional  postage.  A  few  of  these  volumes  will  make 
a  good  addition  to  any  one’s  store  of  reading  matter,  valua¬ 
ble  for  reference  on  every  topic  connected  with  rural  life. 

•*  Premium  aO.— The  “Agriculturist  Strawberry 
PlantsS — Any  person  sending  a  club  of  23  or  more  subscribers 
will  be  presented  with  one  dozen  of  these  plants,  if  applying 
before  our  stoek  is  exhausted.  We  reserved  only  40,000  plants 
for  distribution,  a  part  of  which  have  already  been  called 
for.  These  will  be  sent  out  early  in  spring,  free  of  expense 
to  premium  takers.  Independent  of  the  above,  any  subscriber 
may  call  for  a  plant,  if  he  send  5  cents  for  expense  of  pack¬ 
ing  and  postage— but  only  on  condition  that  the  application 
tomes  with,  the  subscription,  to  save  looking  up  the  name. 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


New-York,  Dec.  16,  1864. 


Iiowever,  very  irregular  prices,  closing  buoyantly.... 
Wool  has  been  in  fair  request,  and  lield  w  ith  much  firm¬ 
ness,  tire  present  tendency  being  strongly  in  favor  of  sel¬ 
lers —  Cotton  opened  heavily,  but  closed  rather  briskly, 
prices  ruling  quite  firm.... Seeds  have  been  held  above 
the  views  of  buyers,  and  trade  inactive ....  Hay,  hops  and 
tobacco  have  been  in  good  demand  and  buoyant  in  price. 

The  following  condensed,  comprehensive  tables,  care¬ 
fully  prepared  specially  for  the  American  Agriculturist, 
show  at  a  glance  the  transactions  for  a  month  ending  De¬ 
cember  16,  with  other  interesting  comparative  figures. 


CCESBNT  WnOLESALK  PRICES. 


Nov.  16. 

Dec.  16. 

Flour— Super  to  Extra  State 

$9  30 

@10  40 

$9  85 

@10  60 

Super,  to  Extra  Southern _ 

10  70 

@15  25 

iO  83 

@15  00 

Extra  Western . 

9  90 

@13  00 

10  25 

@13  50 

Extra  Genesee . 

10  40 

@13  00 

10  60 

@13  25 

Superfine  Western . 

9  40 

®  0  SO 

9  83 

@10  10 

Rye  Flour . 

8  23 

®  9  25 

8  50 

@  9  50 

Corn  Meal . . 

7  50 

@  8  50 

7  75 

®  8  60 

Wheat- All  kinds  of  White. . 

2  45 

@  2  63 

2  50 

®  2  7.1 

All  kinds  of  Ued . . 

2  17M®  2  45 

2  25 

@  2  52K 

Corn— Yellow . 

1  63 

@  1  84 

1  70 

@  ’2  00 

Mixed . . 

1  82 

@  1  84 

1  90 

@  1  91 

Oats— Western . 

93 

®  1  00 

1  06 

@  1  07 

State. . . 

97 

®  99 

1  03 

®  1  04 

Rye . 

1  62 

®  1  65 

1  72 

Barley . 

1  80 

@  2  05 

1  75 

@  2  00 

Cotton— Middlings,  per  Ib... . 

1  40 

®  1  42 

1  32 

®  1  33 

Hops,  crop  ot  1803,  per  lb . 

15 

@  35 

15 

@  35 

Hops,  crop  of  1864,  per  lb . 

30 

@  5114 

30 

@  52K 

Feathers,  Live  Geese,  p.  lb.. 

75 

@  80 

80 

@  82 

Seed— Clover,  per  lb . 

19 

®  20 

24 

@  25 

Timothy,  per  biisliel . 

5  50 

@  6  00 

5  75 

@  6  Vi'A 

Flax,  per  bushel . 

3  55 

@  3  65 

3  43 

@  3  70 

Sugar— Brown,  per  lb . 

18 

@  25 

163f@  24K 

MoLASsEs.New-Orleans,  p.sl.. 

1  00 

®  1  25 

1  10 

@  1  ‘27K 

Coffee.  Rio,  per  lb .  .. 

42X@  47 

44>;@  4S 

Toiiacco— Kentiickv.&c.p.lb.. 

12 

@  48 

Vil4®  40 

Seed  Leaf,  per  lb . 

15 

@  63 

16 

@  65 

Wool— Dohiestic  fleece,  p.  Ib.. 

90 

@  1  05 

90 

@  1  12K 

Domestic,  pulled,  per  lb . 

72>4@  1  00 

70 

@  1  02X 

Calilornia,  unwashed . 

30 

®  70 

25 

@  67M 

Tallow,  per  lb . 

18 

@  19 

17K@  18^ 

Oil  Cake,  per  tun . 

82  50 

@05  00 

so  50 

@92  50 

Pork— Mess,  per  bbl . 

40  50 

@40  75 

37  50 

@41  50 

Prime,  per  bbl . 

37  25 

@38  CO 

35  00 

@36  50 

Beef— Plain  mess . 

14  00 

@22  00 

18  50 

@21  50 

Lard,  in  bbls.,  per  lb  . 

2IK®  24 

21 

@  'ti'/i 

Butter— Western,  per  lb. ... . 

34 

®  46 

35 

@  .iO 

state,  per  lb . 

44 

@  56 

45 

®  58 

Cheese . 

16 

@  25 

15 

@  24 

Beans —  per  bushel . 

1  80 

@  2  50 

2  "lO 

@  2  90 

Peas— Canada,  per  Bushel... 

Nominal. 

Nominal. 

Eggs— Fresh,  per  dozen . 

48 

@  ^0 

37 

@  42 

Poultry — Fowls,  per  lb . 

16 

@  20 

IS 

@  21 

Turkeys,  per  Ib . 

16 

@  24 

■20 

@  23 

Potatoes— Mercers,  p.  bbl.... 

2  50 

@  3  00 

3  00 

@  3  75 

Peach  Blow,  per  bbl . 

2  00 

@  2  50 

2  73 

®  3  00 

Dvkemans.  per  bbl . 

2  00 

@  2  23 

3  00 

@  4  50 

Apples— Western,  per  bbl... 

4  00 

@  5  00 

3  75 

®  5  50 

Apples— Eeastern,  per  bbl  — 

4  00 

@  5  00 

3  73 

@  4  50 

CKANBERRtES,  per  bbl . 

11  00 

@15  00 

22  00 

®2S  00 

I¥ew  Yorlc  S^ive  Stoclc  J^Sarlccts. — The 

average  weekly  receipts  for  a  month  past  have  been  6508— 
about  the  same  as  the  previous  month.  Prices  were  main¬ 
ly  unchanged  until  the  last  general  market,  Dec.  loth  and 
14th,  when  with  6,245  cattle  on  sale,  and  scarcity  of  otlier 
live  stock  prices  advanced  IfaC.  per  lb.,  tlie  best  bringing 
20c.  per  lb.  for  the  estimated  net  or  dressed  weight,  good 
steers  about  18c.,  oxen  and  cows,  12®14c. — the  average 
of  all  sold  being  llj^c.  The  quality  of  stock  is  improving. 


1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  THE  NEW-YORK  MARKETS. 


Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat. 
24  days  this  m’th.4S7.500  1,782,000 
27day3iao’<m'tli.4Sl,000  1,^7,000 


Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 
317,000  63,000683,000  2,613,000 
938,000  239,000  861,000  2,331,000 


Milcli  Cows. — Average  weekly  receipts  93, 
with  a  better  demand.  Poor  cows  bring  $101345,  good 
miikers  $601375,  and  extra  or  fancy  cows  $9013100  each. 


Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn. 

24  days  this  month,  416,000  1,061,000  6.3.3.000 

27  days  last  month,  458,000  1,411,000  1,132,000 


Rye.  Barley. 
104,000  434,000 
174,500  613,000 


2.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 


RRCEIPTS.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

24  days  1864  . 487,300  1,782,000  317,000  63.000  688.000  2,613,000 

24  days  1863 . 573,000  3,159,000  260,000  88,000  563,000  2,741,000 


Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

24  days  1864  .  416,000  1,061,000  635,000  104,000  434,000 

24  days  1863 .  373,000  2,772,000  2,146,000  33,500  330,000 


3.  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  December  15. 


Flour, 

Wheat, 

Corn, 

Rye, 

Oats. 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

1864..., 

...  1,875,807 

12,105,884 

837,208 

588 

41,459 

1863.... 

. . .  2,434,736 

14,867,036 

7,536,149 

416,369 

T2.), 806 

1862.... 

....2,989,619 

24,890,341 

11,531,819 

1,099,656 

172,922 

4.  Receipts  of  Breadstujfs  at  Albany,  by  the  New-York 
Canals  from  the  opening  of  navigation  to  Nov.  30th. 

Flour,  "Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Barley,  Oats, 

bbls.  bus.  bus.  bus.  bus.  bus. 

k»t  ...1,129,200  14,808,700  9,231,900  592,200  2,953,000  11,292,000 

1863  .  .1  410,000  21,078,200  20,.353.400  400,900  2,778,700  11,289,400 

1862  ...1,396,400  32,548,000  21,876,600  750,400  2,019,700  5,317,400 

The  violent  fluctuation  in  gold,  during  the  past  month, 
has  seriouly  checked  operations  in  all  kinds  of  domestic 
produce,  as  well  as  in  foreign  merchandise.  The  receipts 
from  the  interior  have  been  limited  recently  by  the  partial 
suspension  of  inland  navigation.  The  N.  Y.  State  canals 
were  formally  closed  on  the  fith  inst.  The  Hudson  River 
is  still  open,  and  used  by  freight  boats,  but  can  not  long 
remain  so.  The  demand  for  breadstuffs  has  been  fair  for 
home  use,  shipment  and  on  speculation,  but  at  very  va¬ 
riable  prices.  The  market  is  quite  firm  for  flour  and 
wheat,  and  decidedly  heavy  for  corn,  rye,  oats  and  bar¬ 
ley.  The  available  supplies''here  are  deemed  moderate 
for  the  season,  and  the  principal  holders  appear  indis- 
po.sed  or  reluctant  to  force  sales  ahead  of  the  regular 
requirements  of  the  trade _ The  main  busines.s  in  pro¬ 

visions  has  been  in  hog  products  which  have  been  freely 
jrchased  mainly  by  speculators  and  export  buyers,  at. 


Calves. — Rgeeipts  lighter,  amounting  to  1,613 
per  week  for  the  past  month.  Prices  unchanged — 12.'t2l3 
per  lb.  live  weight  for  fat  calves,  and  10(a)llc.for  thin  ones. 

Slieep  aad  Ciamlis. — Arrivals  21,075  per 
week  for  a  month  past,  which  is  a  falling  off  from  the  pre¬ 
vious  month.  The  market  had  fluctuated  very  much. 
With  25,512  the  first  week,  prices  fell  off  more  than  a  cent 
a  pound,  from  which  they  gradually  advanced  until  Dec. 
I3th,  when,  with  about  18,000  for  the  week,  prices  went 
up  2c.  per  ft.,  good  sheep  selling  quick  at  lO'SlOl^c.  per 
lb.  live  weight,  thin  stock  8fa)9c.  Lambs  brought  lOfoillc. 
with  an  insufficient  supply  of  both  to  meet  the  demand. 

Live  Hogs. — Have  also  advanced  to  a  very 
high  figure — 13'a)14c.  per  lb.  live  weight  being  the  prices 
at  the  last  market  for  prime  corn  fed  hogs.  Dressed  hogs 
bringing  17f3l8c.  per  lb.  from  the  boats  and  depots. — 
Weekly  receipts  for  a  month  past  averaged  24,539. 

- - m-t - iiiwB— - - »-• - 

Exhibition  Xnhles  at  tlie  Ollice  oi' 
the  American  Agfriculturist. 

Our  large  office,  very  centrally  located,  affords  unsur¬ 
passed  facilities  for  the  exhibition  of  interesting  Agricul¬ 
tural  and  Horticultural  specimens,  etc.  Large  numbers 
of  these  are  sent  in  by  our  readers  and  inspected  by  thou¬ 
sands  of  visitors.  At  times  the  display  exceeds  that  seen 
in  many  public  fairs.  All  are  invited  to  exhibit  whatever 
of  the  kind  will  be  of  general  interest,  and  also  to  visit 
and  inspect  articles  on  exhibition— the  whole  is  entirely 
free.  The  following  have  been  received  since  last  report : 

Fruits. — Apples  :  Fall  Pippin  ,  Jas.  C.  Valentine, 

Glen  Cove,  N.  Y - White  Bellflower,  Northern  Spy, 

Newtown  Pippin,  Pumpkin,  Swaar,  Baldwin,  and  Fall 
Pippin;  Jacob  Williams,  No.  Hempstead,  L.  I _ New¬ 

town  Pippin,  (pear  shaped),  B.  N.  Ferdon,  Closter,  N.  J. 
....Russet  Apple  torn  Newtown  Pippin  tree  ;  R. 


Anketell,  Oyster  Bay,  L.  I  —  Collection  of  several  varie¬ 
ties  :  Andre  Leroy,  Belgium  . .  Crab  Apple,  “11.  L.,” 
Flushing,  N.  Y. . .  .1  Doz.  Prize  Fall  Pippins,  S.  Williams, 
Mount  Clair,  N.  J.  Pears  :  Lawrence,  Orange,  and  Chi¬ 
nese  Sand  ;  Jacob  Williams,  No.  Hempstead,  L.  I  ... 
Columbia,  excellent  specimens;  M.  Varian,  Jr.,  \Vi! 

liamsbridge,  N.  Y _ White  Doyenne  ;  T.  S.  Gidd,  Wt. 

Cornwall,  Ct _ Grapes:  Seedling  of  Chasselas,  Clin¬ 

ton,  and  Herbemont  ;  G.  H.  Hite,  Morrisania,  N.  Y 

Catawba  ;  J.  Palmer,  Greenpoint.  L.  I _ New  Seediiiig: 

Mr.  Hodges,  N.  Y.  City.  Miscellaneous :  Pine  Peaches  ; 
N.  0.  Randall,  Yaphank,  L.  I  —  Upland  Cranberries  ;  C. 
Dubois,  Lakeland,  L.  I _ Lemon,  superior,  grown  un¬ 
der  glass;  Mrs.  H.  P.  Ayres,  New  Canaan,  Ct _ Pea¬ 

nut  plant  in  fruit  ;  W.  Lord,  Morrisania,  N.  Y..,. Pome¬ 
granates  ;  T.  Holt,  Beaufort,  S.  C. 

Flowers  :  Bloom  of  Hoya  carnosa  and  handsome  cr 
lection  of  Dahlias  ;  C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum. 
Bloom  of  Peristeria  elata  or  Dove  Flower  ;  Wm.  C 
Chorlton,  S.  I  ...Beautiful  collection  of  Cut  Flowers,  as 
usual  (  Miss  M.  A.  Cortelyou,  Westfield,  S.  I _ Collec¬ 

tion  of  Chrysanthemums  ;  Mr.  Max,  9th  st.,  N.  Y  ... 
Sunflowers  ;  Mr.  St.  John,  N.  Y.  City,  and  W.  H.  Biid- 
gens.  Oyster  Bay,  N.  Y. 

■  Vegetables,  Etc.— Po/afoes  ;  Fine  collection  ;  Wm. 
S.  Carpenter,  Rye,  N.  Y.,  and  Reisig  &  Hexamer,  New¬ 
castle,  N.  Y —  Union;  J.  H.  Gilman,  Monroe  Co.,  N. 
Y.... Davis  Seedling;  C.  H.  Wheeler,  New  London, 
Ct.... White  Peach  Blow  ;  P.  C.  Cortelyou,  Westfield, 
N.  Y...  Pinkeyed  Rusty  Coat  ;  Jno.  G.  Hadden,  Mam- 
aroneck,  N.  Y - Peach  Blows,  extra  ;  Mrs.  A.  G.  Bron¬ 
son,  Islip,  N.  Y - Prince  .Vlbert  ;  J.  Husson,  West¬ 

chester,  N.  Y.,  Isaac  L.  Miller,  Richmond,  N.  V.,  and  J. 

H.  Scofield,  Port  Jervis,  N.  Y _ Buckeye,  Isaac  L. 

Miller,  Richmond,  N.  Y...  Garnet  Chili  ;  S.  Van  Dozen, 
Croton  Falls,  N.  Y.,  C.  W.  Dunlap,  Jr.,  English  Neigh- 
borliood.  N.  J.,  and  J.  Husson,  Westchester,  N.  Y.... 

Rocky  Mountain  ;  M.  O.  Whitcomb,  Springfield,  Vt _ 

Sweet  Potatoes,  3,  weighing  6  Ib.s.,  5oz.;  J.  W.  Davis 
Staten  Island,  also  good  samples;  W.  Lord,  Morrisania 
N.  Y.,  S.  W.  Benedict,  Rossville,  Staten  Js.and,  am 

I. saac  Miller,  Richmond,  N.  Y.  Turnips  :  Large,  weigh 
ing  6  to  1}4  lbs.;  L.  Adams.  Irvingi-r,  N.  Y.,  I.  W.  Eng 
land,  Paranus,  N.  J.,  and  Wn. .  P.  Wright,  Weehawken, 
N.  J  —  Aberdeen,  3;^  lbs.,  Asmus  &  Son,  Hoboken,  N. 

J - Curious  growth  ;  Wm.  B.  Bradbury,  Orange,  N  J 

—  Double  growth;  “II.  L.,”  Flushing,  N.  Y.  Beets. 
White  Sugar,  10?^  lbs.;  E.  Chapman,  Perth  Amboy,  N 

J - Red  Turnip;  Dr.  J.  H.  Holden,  Scarboro,  N.  Y., 

and  F.  L.  Allen.  VVoodhaven,  L.  I _ Large  Blood,  Mrs, 

Dean,  New  Rochelle,  N.  Y.  Carrots  :  Long  Oiainge  ;  G. 
W.  Barnes,  Mt.  Vernon,  N.  Y.,  Benjamin  F.  Se;iver,  Et. 
Orange,  N.  J.,  and  Hon.  H.  F.  Clark,  Far  Rockaway,  L. 
I.  Onions  :  Large  Danvers  ;  H.  W.  Tyler,  Caroline,  N. 
Y.  Parsnips :  Very  large,  5  lbs.,  “H.  L.,”  Flushing 
N.  Y.  Radishes:  French;  P.  Fromil.  N.  Y.  City.... 
Chinese  Winter  ;  E.  S.  Allen,  N.  Y.  City,  and  H.  E. 

Richards,  Bloomfield,  N.  J _ Large  growth;  W.  H. 

Bridgens,  Oyster  Bay,  L.  I.,  J.  L.  Quick,  Brooklyn,  L. 
L,  and  G.  H.  Lawrence,  P.alisades,  N.  Y.  Corn  :  White 
Flint  ;  G.  H.  Lawrence,  Palisades,  N.  Y.;  same  variety, 

ears  16  inches  long ;  G.  H.  Zabriskie,  Paranus,  N.  J . 

20-rowed;  G.  Sussdorff,Woodside,  L.  I _ 8-rowed  Flint, 

15  inches  long,  George  II.  Moseman,  Portchester,  N.  Y. 
Western,  fine  samples  ;  Mrs.  Schroeder,  Woodside,  L.  1. 
12- rowed  Flint  ;  I.  L.  Mosher,  Portchester,  N.  Y _ Ho¬ 

miny  ;  F.  Holt,  Beaufort,  S.  C.  Miscellaneous  :  Okra 

I.  E.  Chapman,  Perth  Amboy,  N.  J _ Variegated  Kale 

ofgreat  beauty,  T.  S.  Gold,  Wt.  Cornwall,  Conn  ..  Large 

Pumpkin,  Jas.  McCabe,  Orange,  N.  J _ Winter  Kale 

Peter  Fromier,  N.  Y.  City - Giant  Celery;  Dr.  Wm. 

Coekroft,  Stamford,  Ct _ Liberian  Coffee,  Indigo,  Cot 

ton  and  Peppers  ;  Freedmen’s  Society,  N.  Y.  City _ 

Chicory ;  W.  J.  Spence,  Edenville,  L.  I _ Osage  Orange, 

large  fruit;  W.  M.  Thompson,  N.  Y.  city...  Sweet 
Chestnuts,  E.  Velie's  farm,  near  Newburg,  N.  Y _ Cal¬ 

ifornia  Gourds  ;  O.  R.  Nathasius,  N.  Y.  city,  and  F. 

Heyer,  Melrose,  N.  Y - Fungus  ;  Frederick  W.  Bond, 

Cypress  Hills,  L.  I _ Rice  and  Rice  plant;  David  Wing- 

ton,  St.  Helena  Island,  S.  C.,  and  T.  Holt,  Beaufort,  S.  C. 

Miscellaneous  Articles:  Sorghum  Molasses  ;  Brew 

ster  &  Boak,  Scottstown,  N.  Y _ Bantam  Eggs  ;  E. 

Blois,  N.  Y.  City - Curious  Squirrel’s  Tooth;  H.  Fracks, 

Bristol,  Ind _ Bow  and  Arrows  taken  from  Kioway 

C.hief,  “Big  Wolf,”  A.  Buddee,  Troy,  N.  Y. 


Seeds. — The  numerous  applications  for  seeds 
of  various  kinds  make  it  necessary  to  repeat  the  state 
ment  that  we  keep  no  seeds  for  sale.  All  usually  at 
tainable  varieties  are  kept  by  the  regular  dealers,  most  of 
wliom  advertise  in  the  Agriculturist.  It  is  not  from  any 
unwillingness  to  accommodate  that  we  decline  to  answer 
where  this  or  that  seed  can  be  had,  but  we  can  not  afford 
either  time  or  space  to  reply.  Send  to  any  of  the  prin¬ 
cipal  dealers,  and  they  will  return  the  seeds  by  mail. 
Osage  orange  seed  is  not  to  be  had  at  the  present  time. 


4 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIS  P, 


[Januatit, 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  includir  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  int  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


Tlie  Xerms  Imperative. — Aftera 

full  monlir.s  notice,  oui'  new  terms  went  into  effect  Dec. 
1st.  They  were  fixed  as  low  aspossihle,  and  we  think 
quite  as  1  >w  as  those  of  any  other  journal.  Th.jse 
acquainted  with  the  expenses  of  such  an  establishment, 
wilt  see  the  necessity  of  strictly  adherirrg  to  our  pub¬ 
lished  terms.  Some  continue  to  send  in  subscriptions  at 
the  old  rates.  When  this  is  done,  the  usual  method  will 
be  to  credit  the  sender  with  so  much  time  as  his  money 
will  pay  for  at  the  regular  rates.  2'he  present  terms  are  : 
For  English  Edition,  $1.50  a  year  ;  four  copies  for  $5  ; 
ten  copies,  for  $12  ;  twenty  or  more  copies,  for  $1  each. 
For  German  Edition  $2  a  year  ;  four  copies,  for  §7 ; 
ai.e  copies,  for  $10;  tenor  more  copies,  for  $1.50  each. 

Sorsflium  in  Orange  Co.,  N.  Y. — We' 

have  on  the  Agriculturist  table  a  sample  of  very  good 
syrup  from  Messrs.  Brewster  &  Boak,  of  Scottstown, 
just  north  of  Middletown,  N.  Y.,  where  considerable  ex¬ 
periments  were  made  the  past  season,  and  with  such 
success  as  to  induce  the  further  cultivation  of  this  crop 
next  year.  The  best  cultivated  plots  yielded  about  300 
gallons  of  syrup  per  acre,  worth  now  at  least  $1.25  per 
gallon.  Other  plots  yielded  less  than  50  gallons,  owing 
to  bad  weather,  late  planting,  and  non-attention  to  the 
culture.  Tlie  average  is  estimated  at  about  100  gallons, 
which  Mr.  Brewster  thinks  can  be  easily  doubled  after 
the  past  year’s  experience.  Clark  <fc  Hedge’s  mills, 
and  Cook’s  evaporators  are  established  at  three  points  in 
the  county,  where  the  cane  is  received  from  farmers,  and 
worked  on  shares.  From  what  we  can  gather,  it  seems 
probable  that  Orange  Co.  may  readily  and  profitably 
produce  its  own  sweetening.  It  is  worth  looking  after. 

Blaclc  Spaaiisli  Cowls. — A  very  beauti¬ 
ful  pair  of  these  aristocratic  looking  birds  have  been  re¬ 
ceived  from  Louis  Essig,  poultry  fancier.  Canton,  Ohio. 
He  has  our  thanks.  We  will  take  good  care  of  them. 


Wliy  Henneries  Ite  Xfglat, 

“C.  M.  W.”  does  not  understand.  Fowls  love  warmth  and 
sunshine.  This  they  seek  to  enjoy  whenever  they  can  in 
V  inter,  and  when  confined,  ought  to  have  the  shelter  of 
the  poultry-house,  and  the  warmth  of  the  sunlight  within. 
When  they  have  this  they  do  better,  are  more  active, 
healthier,  and  lay  more.  All  animals  are  liealthler  for 
being  in  the  sunlight  part  of  each  day.  Of  course  the 
hens  will  seek  dark,  secluded  places  for  their  nests. 


“  Early  CliiclceMS,”  says  a  correspondent, 
lay  in  winter,  w'hen  old  hetis  do  not,  because  fowls  will 
not  lay  while  the  new  feathers  are  growing,  after  moult¬ 
ing,  and  with  old  birds  this  period  often  extends  into  the 
winter.  Therefore  lookout  for  a  good  stock  of  early  pul¬ 
lets,  to  furnish  eggs  next  Christmas  and  New  Year’s  time. 

Ceetling'  for  Milk. — “  Beginner”  inquires 
the  very  best  way  to  feed  cows  for  milk.  A  very 
good  method  is  that-  followed  by  some  of  the  dairymen  of 
Middlesex  Co.,  Mass.,  as  detailed  by  Dr.  Reynolds. 
Those  farmers  who  wish  to  sell  milk  the  year  round, 
have  two  sets  of  cows,  one  set  coming  in  early  in  Octo¬ 
ber,  the  other  in  April  or  May.  Those  which  are  dry  in 
winter,  are  fed  on  hay  or  roots,  and  kept  in  warm  stables, 
though  let  out  into  the  yard  twice  a  day  for  airing  and 
drinking.  Care  is  taken  to  keep  them  in  good,  fair  con¬ 
dition,  even  while  they  give  no  milk.  Those  which  are 
milked  in  winter  have  hay,  oats,  corn  fodder,  roots,  with 
meal  and  shorts.  The  grain  is  often  mixed  with  cut 
feed,  and  moistened  before  it  is  fed  out.  The  feeding  is 
done  with  great  regularity  and  system,  and  so  is  the 
milking.  The  stables  are  kept  neat,  the  cows  are  cur¬ 
ried  and  brushed.  As  soon  as  the  summer  cows  come 
in,  they  are  fed  more  than  before.  They  are  turned  out 
to  pasture  in  May,  but  are  stabled  at  night.  In  the  morn¬ 
ing  they  have  cut  feed  and  grain.  In  mid-summer,  when 
the  pastures  dry  up,  they  are  foddered  once  a  day  with 
fresh  cut  corn-stalks.  Sometimes,  newly  cut  grafts  or 
millet  is  given.  This,  with  various  modifications,  is  sub¬ 
stantially  the  practice  of  many  good  dairymen  elsewhere. 

"Warty  Xeats — Cleanliness  in  Milk¬ 
ing.— “S.  G.,”  who  has  lived  in  the  citv  until  lately,  but 
now  is  enjoying  country  life,  thus  gives  his  experience :  “I 
bought  two  fine  young  cows.  One  of  them  had  many 
warts  on  her  teats  and  was  very  unruly  and  hard  to  milk. 
Besides,  the  teats  of  both  cows  were,  at  milking,  often 


dirty— sometimes  very  much  so.  Therefore  my  wife, 
taking  w  ith  her  at  milking  a  little  clean  warm  water, 
washed  the  teats  and  bag  clean  of  all  dirt  before  milking. 
These  good  effects  followed :  We  have  nice  sweet  milk, 
free  of  all  disagreeable  substances,  the  flavor  of  which 
we  sometimes  perceived  in  milk  bought  in  the  city.  The 
warts  on  the  teats  of  the  unruly  cow  disappeared  in  a 
short  time,  the  teats  became  smooth  and  soft,  and  the  cow 
stands  quietly  at  milking.  I  see  some  neighbors  of  mine 
practice  the  washing  too,  but  using  the  milk  of  the  cow 
instead  of  water.’’ 

Pig'S — Sick  iind  Weakly,  and  “  off 
tlieir  Feed.” — “  A.  T..”  of  Amboy,  Ohio,  writes, 
that  if  his  pigs  are  ailing,  and  look  dull  and  stupefied, 
keeping  their  nests  and  not  eating  well,  he  gives  them  a 
good  washing  in  warm  soap  suds,  and  two  table  spoon¬ 
fuls  of  sulphur.  He  takes  particular  pains  to  washout 
the  “  sweat  pores”  of  the  legs.  The  partial  paralysis  of 
the  hind  legs,  which  sometimes  occurs,  he  finds  is  re¬ 
lieved  by  a  “  small”  dose  of  copperas,  (green  vitriol). 
One  of  the  best  things  we  have  found  for  keeping  pigs 
in  good  order  is  a  mixture  of  ciean  charcoal  dust  with 
their  food,  so  that  each  hog  shall  eat  half  a  pint  or  so 
once  a  week  at  least,  especially  if  green  food  is  lacking. 


^latiiglitei'-laoiiiite  Offil. — “  O.  M.”  Ot¬ 
tumwa,  Iowa.  Work  the  offal  up  with  swamp  muck, 
sods,  or  loam,  using  one-fourth  to  one-sixth  offal,  and 
apply  it  after  it  has  come  to  a  good  heat,  or  let  it  lie  in  a 
heap,  covered  with  a  few  inches  of  muck  or  mould,  so 
that  it  shall  lose  nothing.  Employ  it  just  like  barn-yard 
manure,  according  to  its  strength,  using  that  which  is 
most  healing,  that  is  the  strongest,  on  the  heaviest  land. 

ISces — CSootl  BSessilSs. — Bid- 

well  Bros.,  of  Minn.,  send  to  the  American  Agriculturist 
a  statement  showing  what  good  workers  the  Italians 
are.  “  Last  spring  our  apiary  consisted  of  one  Italian, 
and  58  stocks  of  black  bees,  all  in  frame  hives.  We  have 
increased  our  oneTtalian  stock  to  15— our  58  to  181,  prin¬ 
cipally  by  artificial  swarming.  We  have  forced  our 
old  Italian  stock  five  times,  and  the  first  new  one  once. 
The  parent  stock  weighs  to-day  49  lbs.  (less  hive),  and 
we  have  taken  out  one  frame  for  each  new  swarm 
forced  The  first  new  swarm  weighs  (less  hive)  57  lbs., 
its  swarm  54  lbs.,  the  2d  59  lbs.,  3d  61  lbs.,  4th  59  lbs„  51h 
53  lbs.  We  have  taken  from  the  1st  new  swarm,  in  boxes, 
•22  lbs.  honey,  'id  126  lbs.,  3d  88  lbs.,  41h  lbs.,  5th 
lbs.,  making  in  the  whole  7  hives,  3®a  lbs.  hive  honey,  and 
339ji  lbs.  in  boxes.  Total  722j4  lbs.  as  the  products  of 
one  Italian  stock,  and  have  given  8  sealed  queens  to  8 
stocks  of  black  bees  previously  swarmed.  We  shall  Ital¬ 
ianize  our  whole  apiary  next  season.  All  of  our  196 
stocks  have  filled  their  hives,  except  two  very  late  ones 
which  came  out  the  last  of  August  and  1st  of  Septem¬ 
ber.  The  average  weight  of  our  stocks,  less  hives, 
bees.  &c.,  is  about  58  lbs.  of  honey.  We  have  taken  off 
in  glass  boxes  1,208  lbs.,  and  1,301  in  caps.”  Allowing 
30c.  per  lb.  for  hive  honey,  and  35c.  for  cap  and  box 
honey,  the  income  of  this  apiary  amounts  to  $3,261  95. 

“  Vcntiii'e  IVotkiii"’  ISs&ve.” 

— “  H.  A.  T.”  a.sks  whether  he  shall  sell  hay  or  run  in 
debt  for  stock  to  eat  it  up  ?  He  must  of  course  judge  for 
himself  whether  he  can  go  with  profit  into  the  operation. 
Selling  part  of  his  hay,  he  may  be  able  to  buy  stock  to 
eat  the  rest  up.  The  proposition  he  makes  is  of  the  char¬ 
acter  of  perfectly  safe  business  ventures,  which  good 
merchants  make  all  the  time.  It  is  never  best  to  go  into 
such  speculations  to  an  extent  that  will  embarrass  one 
seriously  should  any  thing  go  wrong. 

Ciood  Way  to  Keep  the  Cold  ©at.— 

We  have  been  testing,  anil  are  now  enjoying  the  benefits 
of  an  excellent  invention  for  keeping  the  cold  out,  and 
saving  fuel  in  these  high- priced-coal  times.  The  intro¬ 
duction  of  a  furnace  heater  had  shrunk  the  doors  and 
windows  so  much,  that  for  several  autumns  past  there 
had  been  the  annual  discussion  whether  it  was  test  to 
lay  in  three  or  four  extra  tons  of  coal,  or  have  the  joiners 
and  painters  around  for  a  couple  of  weeks,  piecing  out  the 
doors,  and  re-casing  the  windows— the  discussion  always 
ending  in  favor  of  the  extra  coal,  until  it  got  up  to  $14  a 
ton.  But  the  joiners  and  painters  raised  too,  and  wanted 
$3  to  $3.50  a  day,  and  ever  so  much  more  for  the  rise  in 
paint.  Just  then  an  advertisement  in  the  American 
Agriculturist,  by  E.  S.  &  J.  Toney,  led  us  to  look  into 
the  merits  of  their  “  Weather  Strips,”  and  as  the  result,  we 
ordered  the  whole  house  fitted  up  with  them,  four  weeks 
ago. — Well,  they  are  a  cheap  luxury  that  would  not  be 
spared  to-day  for  five  times  their  cost.  As  we  write,  the 
winter’s  blast  (thermometer  at  '2°),  whistles  shrilly  with¬ 
out,  but  not  a  breath  of  it  penetrates  UTibidden  into  our 
sanctum,  and  not  a  shake  or  )ar  of  the  windows  dis¬ 
turbs  the  train  of  thought.  Of  course  we  have  venti¬ 
lators  to  admit  all  needed  air,  though  a  constant  stream 


of  fresh  air,  warmed  and  properly  moistened  at  the  cel¬ 
lar  furnace,  saves  the  necessity  of  admitting  air  from 
elsewhere.  This  “  weather  strip”  is  simply  a  neat 
beaded  strip  of  wood,  having  a  flexible  narrow  belt 
of  rubber  along  one  edge.  This  is  placed  at  the  top, 
bottom  and  sides  of  the  doors  and  windows,  or  over 
the  casings,  and  projects  far  enough  to  effectually 
close  any  opening.  The  rubber  operates  as  a  cushion 
also,  to  prevent  shaking  of  windows,  and  jarring  of  doors 
in  shutting.  The  cost  is  8  to  12  cents  per  foot  for  win¬ 
dows,  and  somewhat  more  for  bottoms  of  doors.  A  few 
feet  even,  placed  against  the  worst  openings,  will  soon 
save  the  cost  in  fuel,  to  say  nothing  of  health  and  comfort. 

Cam  Morse  Hayforks  l»e  used  in 
Stacking  Hay  ?— No  doubt  of  it,  with  suitable 
cranes,  derricks,  or  shears.  Will  not  some  of  the  readers 
of  the  Agriculturist,  who  have  experience,  report  for  the 
benefit  of  inquiring  readers  in  Minnesota,  where  the 
dry  atmosphere  renders  shelter  for  hay  and  fodder  an 
expensive  luxury,  which  must  needs  be  dispensed  with. 

Corn  Fodder  in  Minnesota. — H.  G.  Dan- 
ver,  Goodhue  Co.,  Minn.,  says  they  make  a  practice  ol 
putting  up  their  cornstalks  in  large  stacks,  as  we  infer, 
without  taking  any  especial  care  to  have  them  very  dry, 
and  he  has  never  yet  seen  them  spoil.  With  the  greatest 
care  to  have  the  stacks  very  dry,  and  well  laid  up  to  stand 
rain,  large  stacks  will  almost  always  heat,  and  mould 
badly  in  other  parts  of  the  country. 

Coal  Xar  vs.  “Criitta  I®ercka  Ce¬ 
ment  IS.oofing.”-Mr.  Urban  Burrows,  of  Susquehan¬ 
na  Co.,  Pa.,  informs  us  that  two  or  Ihree  years  ago  he  pro-, 
cured  from  New-York  City,  four  gallons  of  the  above 
named  “cement”  at  $1  a  gallon,  and  at  the  same  time  a 
barrel  of  coal  or  gas  tar  from  Scranton,  at  2jd  cents  per 
gallon.  The  two  looked  much  alike,  and  when  applied  side 
by  side,  they  operate  exactly  alike  so  far  as  he  could  see. 
No  difference  can  now  be  discovered  in  their  appearance. 

Meeping-  Cheese  in  Wintci*. — J.  8. 

Cox,  who  keeps  a  produce  store  in  Delaware  Co..  0., 
says  in  answer  to  “  Novice,  ”  p.  110,  Vol.  23,  that  he  buys 
his  cheese  in  barrels  in  November  usually,  and  putting 
the  barrels  in  a  dry,  cool  place,  using  them  as  needed, 
sometimes  not  opening  the  last  before  the  1st  of  April. 

Claret  "Wine  Stain. — Mrs.  D.  H.  Jack- 

son,  Worcester  Co.,  Mass.  Javelle  water,  the  recipe 
for  which  was  given  in  the  December  Agriculturist, 
page  348,  is  a  good  application  for  removing  fruit  and 
other  vegetable  stains  from  cotton  or  linen  garments. 


Fruit  of  Wistaria. — English  papers  make 
a  great  talk  about  the  fruiting  of  a  Wistaria  in  that  coun¬ 
try.  There  are  vines  here  which  bear  seeds  every  year. 

A  New  Earkspur,  Delphinium  Brunonia- 
num  has  been  introduced  into  England  from  India.  It  is 
described  as  a  very  ornamental  dwarf  species,  having  a 
powerful  odor  of  musk. 

Heath  of  a  Horticulturist. — A.  G, 

Hanford,  Esq., died  at  Columbia,  O.,  in  September  last. 
Mr.  H.  was  identified  with  western  Horticulture  and  con- 
ti  ibuted  to  the  Wisconsin  Farmer  and  other  periodicals. 

To  Managers  of  Horticultural  anti 
similar  Societies.— When  these  bodies  are  of  suffi¬ 
cient  importance,  we  should  be  glad  to  announce  the  time 
•f  their  meetings,  but  the  notice  should  reach  us  as  early 
as  the  10th  of  the  month  previous  to  that  in  which  the 
meeting  is  to  be  held.  Announcemenls  of  the  recent 
meetings  of  the  Illinois  and  Ohio  Societies  came  too  late. 

Post  Office  Money  Orders. — As  pre¬ 
viously  announced,  this  new  system  has  gone  into  oper 
ation  at  a  limited  number  of  Post  Offices.  Persons  liv 
ing  near  any  post  office  named  below,  can  procure 
money  orders  payable  in  New  York  City,  or  at  any  other 
one  of  the  offices  named,  for  an  amount  not  exceeding 
$30.  More  than  this  can  be  sent  by  getting  two,  three  or 
more  orders  as  needed.  The  charge  is  10  cents  for  an 
order  not  exceeding  $10,  and  20  cents  for  any  amount  be¬ 
tween  $10  and  $30.  The  orders  are  made  payable  to  the 
written  order  of  the  person  to  receive  the  money,  so  that 
this  is  a  safe  mode  of  sending  money — the  same  as  a  draft 
on  a  bank.  Subscribers  remitting  money  can  pay  it  in  to 
any  one  of  the  following  0.^005,  or  to  others  hereafter 
established,  and  send  the  order  to  the  Publisher,  according 
to  the  directions  given  on  blanks  furnished  at  each  money 
order  office.  The  following  is  the  list  of  money  order  offi 
ces  so  far  established,  arranged  alphabetically  in  States 

Illainc  !  Augusta,  Bangor,  Eastport,  Portland. - .\ew- 

Il'ampsllire  :  Concord,  Keene.  Nashua.  Portsmouth. - 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST, 


5 


Veimont :  Burlington,  Montpelier,  Kutland. - 3Ia.ssa.- 

chusetts  s  Boston,  Fall  Kiver,  Lowell,  Lynn.  Pittsfield,  Sa¬ 
lem. - Connecticut :  Bridgeport,  Hartford,  New  Haven, 

New  London. - Rhode  Islund  s  Newport,  Providence. 

- New  York  s  Aibany,  Albion.  Auburn,  Bingliampton, 

Brooklyn,  Bufl'alo,  Elmira,  Hudson,  Lockport,  Newburg. 
New  York  City,  Norwich,  Ogdensburg,  Oswego,  Plattsburg, 
Poughkeepsie,  Rochester,  Saratoga  Springs,  Syracuse,  Troy, 

Utica,  Watertown. - New  Jersey  :  Jersey  City,  Newark, 

Trenton. - Pennsylvania  :  Easton,  Erie,  Harrisburg 

Honesdale,  Johnstown,  Lewiston,  Meadville,  Newcastle, 
Philadelphia,  Pittsburg,  Pottsville,  Reading,  Scranton,  Wil¬ 
liamsport. - Delaware  !  Wilmington. - Maryland  s 

Annapolis,  Baltimore,  Cumberland,  Frederick. - D.  C.  s 

Washington. - South  Carolina!  Port  Royal. - Vir¬ 
ginia  s  Alexandria,  Norfolk,  Old  Point  Comfort. - West 

Virginia !  Wheeling. - Ohio  :  Cliillicothe,  Cincinnati, 

Cleveland,  Columbus,  Dayton,  Lima,  Marietta,  Portsmouth, 

Sandusky,  Toledo,  Urbana,  Wooster,  Xenia,  Zanesville. - 

Indiana :  Evansville,  Fort  Wayne.Indianapolis,  Lafayette, 

Madison,  Terre  Haute,  Vincennes. - Michigan  ;  Detroit, 

Grand  Rapids,  Kalamazoo,  Lansing. - Wisconsin  :  Be¬ 
loit,  La  Crosse,  Madison,  Milwaukee.  Racine,  Sheboygan. - 

Illinois  :  Alton,  Bloomington,  Cairo,  Chicago,  Elgin,  Free¬ 
port,  Galena,  Ottawa,  Peoria,  Quincy,  Rockford,  Rock  Island, 

Springfield. - Kentucky  :  Lexington,  Louisville. - 

Tennessee  !  Chattanooga,  Memphis,  Nashville. - Mis¬ 
sissippi  :  Vicksburg. - houisiana  i  New  Orleans. - 

Missouri  :  St.  Louis. - Iowa  :  Burlington,  Davenport, 

Dosmoines,  Dubuque,  Keokuk,  Muscatine. - Minnesota  : 

Red  Wing,  St.  Paul,  Winona. 

Coal  Tar  ibr  Stakes  and  Isabels. — 

Slakes  used  in  nursery  rows,  or  for  labeling  plants  in 
general,  will  by  clipping  the  portion  which  enters  the  soil 
in  coal  tar,  last  four  times  as  long  as  if  not  so  prepared. 

Where  to  Toeate. — Among  the  difficult 
and  almost  unanswerable  questions  addressed  to  the 
American  Agriculturist,  are  those  of  which  the  following 
is  a  specimen  :  “  Will  you  give  your  opinion  as  to  which 
is  tlie  best  place  for  raising  small  fruit.  New  Jersey  or 
Delaware  ?”  We  have  before  stated  our  inability  to  give 
definite  replies  to  such  questions,  but  they  continue  to 
come.  In  reference  to  the  question  above  quoted,  the 
clioice  would  depend  mainly  upon  one’s  object.  If  he 
wislies  to  raise  early  fruit  for  the  New  York  and  Phila¬ 
delphia  markets,  he  would  naturally  look  towards  Dela- 
There  is  an  abundance  of  land  in  both  Delaware 
od  New  Jersey  adapted  to  small  fruit-growing,  and  one 
should  first  determine  what  market  he  intends  to  supply, 
and  then  locate  with  reference  to  marketing  facilities. 
A  few  days  of  personal  observalion  will  be  of  great 
value  to  a  person  about  to  engage  in  such  an  enterprise. 

Ciand  Advertisements.— This  class  of 
business  notices  we  admit  with  less  strictness  of  investi¬ 
gation  than  almost  any  other,  because  it  is  not  supposed 
that  any  one  will  buy  a  landed  property  without  full  per¬ 
sonal  investigation.  Sometimes  such  .advertisements  may 
lead  to  needless  traveling,  but  we  always  advise  a  man 
seeking  a  permanent  homestead  to  visit  a  number  of 
different  points  before  deciding  where  he  will  finally  settle 
down.  The  time  and  money  thus  exapnded  will  be 
fully  saved  in  the  long  run,  not  only  in  securing  a  belter 
location  and  better  land,  hut  in  acquiring  a  knowledge  of 
soil  culture  generally.  Several  New  Jersey  tracts  are 
from  lime  to  time  advertised.  Concerning  them,  we  have 
received  a  great  variety  of  letters :  some,  who  would 
seem  to  be  good  judges,  speak  of  them  in  high  praise, 
while  others  condemn  them  in  unmeasured  terms.  We 
nave  long  intended  to  give  several  of  these  tracts  a  thor- 
ougli  personal  examination,  but,  so  far,  one  thing  and  an- 
otlier  has  come  up  to  interfere  with  the  project. 

A  Government  Ag-ricnltnra.1  Edi¬ 
tor,— The  wife  of  one  of  a  firm  celebrated  for  black¬ 
ing  making  boasted  of  keeping  a  poet ;  so  may  the  De¬ 
partment  of  Agriculture  pride  itself  on  keeping  an  edi¬ 
tor — or  at  least  some  person  whose  business  it  is  to  en¬ 
gineer  the  agricultural  press  in  its  interests.  We  have  re¬ 
ceived,  under  the  fr.ank  of  the  Department,  a  “notice"’  of 
tlie  Reportof  1863, alt  nicely  made  to  our  hands  by  the  Gov¬ 
ernment  scribe.  As  we  happen  to  prefer  to  write  our  own 
notices— having  one  already  in  type  when  this  official  one 
came — we  decline  the  kind  offer.  Has  the  Department  so 
little  confidence  in  its  claims  upon  the  favorable  consid¬ 
eration  of  the  press,  that  it  must  keep  some  one  on  hand 
to  manufacture  opinions  for  it  ?  As  we  help  pay  for  this 
Agricultural  Department,  we  reserve  to  ourselves  the 
right  to  commend  or  censure,  as  its  acts  may  demand, 
and  as  a  tax  payer,  we  object  to  the  employment  of  a 
Washington  correspondent  at  public  expense.  Judging 
trom  t'ne  signature,  we  find  the  same  ready  writer  ap¬ 
pears  in  the  Prairie  Farmer,  in  an  article  which  sets 
forth  the  wonderful  mental  and  physical  qualities  of  the 
head  of  the  Department,  in  a  style  romantic  and  peculiar. 
The  whole  article  is  so  funny  that  we  regret  we  have 
not  room  for  it.  We  can  give  only  an  extract :  “  At  nine 
A.  M.,  the  Commissioner  and  his  corps  of  clerks  are  at 
their  desks.  A  page  has  placed  before  the  Commissioner 
a  pile  of  five  hundred  letters,  more  or  less  ;  tlieseare  all 
opened  and  read  by  him,  contents  noted  and  immediately 


.sent  to  the  clerk  in  whose  department  they  properly  be¬ 
long.  Half  an  hour  after,  the  string  of  daily  visits  com¬ 
mences — some  to  form  his  agreeable  acquaintance,  others 
for  office,  some  for  employment  at  putting  up  seeds,  again 
a  petition  desiring  his  signature,  then  a  subscription  list 
for  some  charitable  nurpose,  now  an  old  friend  claims  re¬ 
cognition.’’  Now  ji-e  think  we  know  something  about 
opening  letters,  and  have  some  clerks  wlio  are  rather 
quick  at  the  business,  but  500  letters  in  half  an  liour 
is  ratlier  rapid  work.  It  is  over  16  a  minute,  and  gives 
nearly  four  seconds  ,  ch.  This  is  quick  opening,  but 
w  hen  we  consider  that  they  are  at  the  same  time  “  read 
and  the  contents  noted,’’  it  becomes  something  super¬ 
human.  Well  may  tlie  writer  add,  “None  but  one  of 
great  strength  of  both  body  and  mind  could  persevere 
under  such  a  lierculean  task” — to  which  we  say,  “just  so.” 

Original  ConuBKlrmin.— When  is  an  edi¬ 
tor  like  a  greedy  swine?  Ans.  When  he  steals  from  others’ 
pens.  Exchanges  who  take  articles  florn  the  American 
Agriculturist  without  giving  any  credit,  will  please  copy. 

A  Bad  Case. — A  friend  in  Connecticut  has 
sent  us  a  circular  of  a  so-called  “Purchasing  Agency” 
in  New  York,  of  a  cliaracler  loo  indecent  to  particular¬ 
ize.  Were  we  to  expose  the  swindler  by  name  it  would 
only  give  him  a  wide  advertising,  which  would  just  suit 
him.  He  is  lost  to  shame,  and  tlie  best  we  can  do  in  tlie 
case  is  to  hand  the  vile  circular  to  tlie  Chief  of  Police. 

'%VBiat  Is  tlie  Best  Blorse  Boole  ? — 

We  are  often  asked,  and  many  times  have  answered, 
that  for  general  use.  for  indicating  the  principles  which 
should  guide  any  one  in  breeding,  buying,  training  and 
using  horses,  “  Herbert's  Hints  to  Horse-keepers'"  stands 
unrivaled  among  American  books.  “  Mayhem's  Horse 
Management  "  and  “  Doctor."  are  very  English,  but  con¬ 
tain  a  vast  deal  of  value  to  all  horsemen,  mixed  with 
more  or  less  w  hicli  is  of  little  use  to  American  farmers. 

The  BJotton  S®lin,iites*'’s  This 

work,  by  J.  A.  Turner,  was  the  first,  and  we  believe  the 
only  work  published  on  ttie  culture  of  cotton.  In  view 
of  the  fact  lliat  many  persons  w  ho  liave  had  no  previous 
experience  in  cotton  grow  ing,  are  engaging  in  this  branch 
of  Agriculture,  a  new  edition  of  tliis  work  is  publish¬ 
ed  to  meet  a  growing  demand.  Aside  from  tlie 
author’s  ow  n  expel  ienoe,  tlie  work  embodies  essays  and 
letters  from  several  other  cultivators,  and  contaiss  a 
great  deal  of  useful  and  interesting  information. 

Bailway  Accicleaits  im  Great  Brit¬ 
ain.— The  London  Arlizan  states  that  in  1861,  79  pas¬ 
sengers  were  killed  and  789  injured  by  railway  .accidents 
in  the  United  Kingdom  ;  in  1862,  on  an  increased  number 
of  lines,  35  were  killed,  536  injured ;  1863,  with  still  more 
numerous  lines,  35  were  killed,  and  401  injured.  These 
matters  are  managed  differently  in  the  United  State.s, 
where  as  with  other  enterprises  the  slaughter  of  rail¬ 
road  passengers  is  conducted  on  a  magnificent  scale. 

Cheese  Maimlactt»rer’s  Assoeia> 

tion. — The  second  annual  meeting  of  the  New  York 
State  C.  M.  A.  is  announced  to  take  place  at  the  City 
Hall  of  Utica,  January  11th  and  12th  instant.  In  addi¬ 
tion  to  the  regular  business,  it  is  proposed  to  discuss  the 
following  important  topics  : — Improved  Methods  of 
Cheese  Manufacture  ;  Best  Manner  of  Marketing  Cheese, 
wliether  direct  or  through  middle  men  ;  A  Uniform  Rate 
of  Cheese  Manufacture  for  1865 ;  The  Best  Manner  of 
Organizing  Factories,  whether  by  private  enterprise,  by 
corporations,  or  otherwise  :  Best  Breed  of  Cows  for  the 
Dairy  ;  Summer  and  "Winter  Management  of  Milch  Cows, 
etc.,  etc.  There  should  be  a  full  attendance  of  dairymen. 

BRi*nitm^<4  Amci'ican  Mii<«eia.m. — 

Strangers  in  the  city  have  asked  ns  tlie  queslion,  “  Shall 
we  go  to  Barnum’s  ?”  “  Will  it  pay  ?”  Our  answer  has 

been,  and  is,  “Yes.”  The  Museum  contains  a  large 
and  rare  collection  of  curiosities,  to  which  Mr. 
Barnum  is  continually  adding  from  every  quarter  of  the 
globe,  and  from  every  kingdom  of  nature— giants  and 
dwarfs,  fat  people  and  lean  ones,  whales,  minnows,  and 
queer  fish,  birds  of  many  featliers,  animals,  minerals, 
specimens  of  the  oldest,  and  the  most  beautiful  produc¬ 
tions  :  but  it  would  require  a  book  to  enumerate  them. 
There  is  enough  to  please,  instruct,  exercise  and  gratify 
curiosity,  to  repay  for  many  hours  of  careful  examination, 

A  $25  Bollar  Tsirmer’s  lill»rary. — 

We  are  often  asked  to  recommend  a  greater  or  less  num¬ 
ber  of  books,  for  a  Farmer’s  Library.  Our  book  list, 
(page  29,)  is  kept  standing  to  answer  such  queries.  Here 
is  a  list  just  made  up  for  one  who  desires  us  to  select 
from  available  books  an  assortment  for  $25 :  American 
Farm  Book  ;  American  Weeds  and  Plants  :  Allen’s  Rural 
Architecture  ;  Barry’s  Fruit  Garden  ;  Bement’s  Poultry  ; 


Dadd’s  Horse  Doctor  ;  Frencii’s  Farm  Drainage  ;  Flint 
on  Grasses  :  Flint  on  Milcli  Cows;  Fuller's  Grape  Cul- 
turist;  Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culture  ;  Herbert’s  Hints  to 
Horsekeepers  ;  Langstrolli  or  Qninbvon  Bees  ;  Our  Farm 
of  Four  Acres  (bound  edition)  ;  Onion  Culture  :  Tobacco 
Culture  (if  wanted)  ;  Todd’s  Young  Farmer’s  Manual , 
Youatt  on  the  Hog;  Sheplierd’s  Own  Book;  Watson’s 
Home  Garden  ;  Youman’s  Hou.^ehold  Science.  This  list 
comprises  a  variety  on  different  topics,  which  would 
make  a  good  foundation  for  a  library,  and  be  of  far  more 
value  tlian  any  other  permanent  investment  of  $25.  The 
retail  price,  or  if  sent  by  mail,  amounts  to  about  $30;  but 
a  lot  like  this,  taken  togetiier  and  sent  by  express,  could 
be  furnished  for  $25.  Ten  dollars  more  added,  for  Down¬ 
ing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America  ;  Bridgeman’s 
Young  Gardener’s  A.ssislant ;  Buisl’s  Flower  Garden  Di¬ 
rectory  ;  Quinby  or  Langstroth  on  Bees;  Goodale’s  Prin¬ 
ciples  of  Breeding  ;  Youatt  and  Martin  on  Cattle  ;  Thom¬ 
son’s  Food  of  Animals,  and  Tucker’s  Annual  Register, 
would  malte  tlie  list  still  better,  and  more  complete. 
Thirty-five  dollars  in  good  books,  placed  before  a  son, 
would  be  of  infinitely  more  value  to  him.  than  if  laid  up 
to  be  left  to  liim  by  will,  or  put  into  an  extra  acre  of  land 
for  him  in  the  future. 

Badil’s  Horse  B>oct©r. — We  knotv  of 

no  better  book  for  the  price,  as  a  guide  to  anyone  who 
must  himself  treat  his  horses  for  those  ailments  and  acci¬ 
dents  to  which  all  liorses  are  liable.  It  is  adapted  to  pop¬ 
ular  use,  and  lias  given  general  satisfaction.  Price  $1.50. 

Tl»e  B^ar»Bser’s  Bsimial. — We  often  fell 
tlie  need  of  a  hand-book  of  practical  rneclianical  opera¬ 
tions  on  the  farm,  and  in  tlie  tool  shop,  before  “  Todd’s 
Young  Farmer’s  Manual”  supplied  the  want.  Do  you 
want  to  know  liow  to  buy  an  axe  and  hang  it  ?  Would 
you  like  to  “  post”  your.self  as  to  how  to  examine  and 
judge  of  various  kinds  of  tools,  how  to  frame  a  shed  or 
barn,  how  to  select  a  grindstone,  hang  a  gate,  make  a 
fence,  plain  or  ornamental,  of  wood,  stone  or  wire,  temper 
edge  tools,  survey  a  lot,  lay  out  the  site  for  a  house,  or 
plot  a  field  for  plowing  ?  Tliese  tilings  are  all  explained, 
and  a  great  deal  more,  with  numerous  good  illusirations, 
ill  ihe  volume  above  named.  Price  $1.50. 

BSceping"  — This  pleasant  and  in- 

slructive  employment  for  young  folks  may  be  made 
more  agreeable,  perhaps,  more  profitable  too,  by  greatej 
familiarity  with  tlie  principles  of  breeding,  varieties,  dis¬ 
eases,  and  general  management.  “Bement’s  Rabbit  Fan¬ 
cier"  furnislies  mucii  excellent  information.  Price  30  cts. 

Tlie  Oliio  Sorgliitm  Assoeiatiou 

holds  its  annual  meeting  at  Columbus,  in  the  Hall  above 
J.  L.  Gill  &  Son,  Agricultural  warehouse,  on  the  3rd  of 
January.  Samples  of  syrup  and  sugar  will  be  exhibited. 

A  Happy  Group. — The  more  we  study  Mr. 
Nast’s  beautiful  sketch,  on  page  16,  the  more  we  enjoy 
it.  Every  toucli  of  the  pencil  speaks.  The  joyous  greet¬ 
ing  to  the  returning  patriot,  is  not  only  exhibited  by  the 
whole  family  group,  but  the  animals  appear  as  if  partici¬ 
pants— the  dog,  the  poultry,  the  sheep— and  even  the 
sleek  porker  seems  to  be  specially  pleased. 

Evergreen  aii«l  oilier  Tree  Seeds. — 

Those  who  inquire  where  tree  seeds  can  be  had,  will  do 
well  to  notice  that  Mr.  Thomas  Meehan,  of  German¬ 
town,  Pa.,  advertises  several  desirable  sorts.  We  under¬ 
stand  that  Mr.  M.  has  seeds  of  several  of  the  rare  Rocky 
Mt.  evergreens.  We  fear  he  will  not  meet  with  much 
sale  for  these,  as  the  seeds  of  all  such  things  first  go  to 
Europe,  and  the  plants  return  as  high  priced  novelties. 

I®eIroleiiii*  is  a  good  thing.  Its  genera!  in¬ 
troduction  into  com  nerce  just  at  the  outbreak  of  the  war 
may  be  considered  Providential,  as  the  immense  export 
of  the  article  has  saved  many  millions  of  gold,  and  thus 
aided  the  country’s  finances  very  materially.  There  are 
good  companies  in  operation,  but  there  are  also  so  many 
more  bogus  ones,  or  those  without  a  sound  basis,  that  it 
is  not  safe  for  a  man  to  invest  in  them,  unless  lie  can  go  on 
the  ground  in  person,  or  by  a  reliable  proxy,  and  definite¬ 
ly  ascertain  where  his  money  will  be  expended,  and  how. 
This  was  all  we  intended  to  intimaie  last  month — not  to 
discourage  enterprise  in  this  direction,  as  .n  few  seem 
to  suppose.  As  a  rule,  the  most  reliable  companies  say 
little  to  Ihe  public— they  think  too  much  of  their  posses¬ 
sions  to  let  others  come  in  for  a  share  of  the  profits. 

Timofliy  Hay  in  Bo"W'a. — To  show  how 
false  Ihe  notion  is  that  cultivated  grasses  will  not  make 
good  crops  of  hay  in  Iowa,  J.  Rhode-s.  of  Marshall  Co., 
assures  us  that  he  cut  Timothy  hay  at  the  rate  of  3Ji  tone 
per  acre  for  the  fu  st  crop,  and  one  ton  tor  tho  second. 


0 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Jaotakt, 


Apples  ibr  Iowa. — D.  W.  Adams,  Alluma- 
kee  Co.,  Iowa,  gives  the  following  .as  his  experience  with 
apples  in  the  Northwest :  “  I  have  a  young  orchard  of 
about  1,400  trees,  situated  on  a  high  swell  of  prairie,  650 
feet  above  the  Mississippi  River,  latitude  43“  20',  fully 
exposed  to  winds  from  all  quarters.  It  is  composed  main¬ 
ly  of  the  following  varieties,  and  now  after  enduring 
seven  of  our  fierce  northwestern  winters,  I  am  ready  to 
unite  my  opinion  with  the  unanimous  verdict  of  visitors, 
that  it  is  as  promising  an  orchard  of  its  size  as  can  be 
found  East  or  West  :  Summer — Early  Harvest,  Red 
Astrachan,  Red  June,  Sops  of  Wine,  Augustine,  Sweet 
June.  Fall — Duchess  of  Oldenburg,  St.  Lawrence,  Col- 
vert,  Golden  Pippin,  Bailey  Sweet,  Fameuse.  Winter — 
Jonathan,  Yellow  Bellflower,  Wine  Sap,  Northern  Spy, 
English  Golden  Russet,  Talman  Sweet,  Rawle’s  Janette. 
The  above  sorts  give  a  succession  of  fruit  for  the 
entire  year,  of  unexceptionable  quality,  and  thoroughly 
^ried  hardiness,  having  all  (last  winter)  passed  through 
the  ordeal  of — 36“  Farenheit.  If  confined  to  four  sorts, 
take  Red  June,  St.  Lawrence,  Fameuse  and  Jonathan.” 

Ra.1>1>iti>i  and.  Trees. — Various  preventives 
to  keep  rabbits  from  injuring  young  trees,  have  been  from 
time  to  time  suggested  by  correspondents,  and  some  have 
been  published  that  otliers  may  make  a  trial  of  them. 
B.  Sherman  says  that  with  him  the  sulphur  and  soap 
mixture  has  proved  a  failure  ;  but  that  a  composition  of 
two  parts  of  fresh  cow  manure,  and  one  of  wood  ashes, 
mixed  with  water  enough  to  apply  readily  witli  a  stub 
broom  was  successful.  He  says,  if  spread  on  thickly,  it 
will  last  six  months. 


Barlc-bonnd  Clierry  Trees. — J.  L.  Hol¬ 
man,  Dearborn  County,  Indiana,  wishes  to  know  if  it  is 
beneficial  to  slit  the  bark  of  trees,  and  when  to  do  it.  If 
the  tree  is  liable  to  crack  we  should  slit  the  bark  in  the 
growing  season  with  a  sharp  knife.  The  cut  soon  heals, 
wliile  a  ragged  crack  often  makes  an  unsightly  seam. 

Medicated  Trees. — Some  months  ago  we 
published  accounts  from  correspondents  who  claimed 
to  have  prevented  the  attacks  of  insects  by  introducing 
substances  into  the  circulation  of  the  tree.  Although  we 
at  the  time  disclaimed  all  belief  in  the  efficiency  of  this 
treatment,  we  have  had  several  letters  asking  the  best 
time  to  introduce  sulpliur,  etc.,  into  the  trunk  of  the  tree. 
We  refer  to  tlie  matter  to  repeat  that  we  do  not  advise 
the  tiling  at  all.  If  one  has  a  worthless  tree  he  can  amuse 
himself  by  plugging  it  either  before  or  after  it  is  cut  down. 

Kliiiis's  Patent  l.abcl. — This  Label,  which 
was  noticed  some  years  ago,  has,  after  standing  the  test 
oi  exposure  through 
six  or  eight  years, 
proved  itself  “  inde¬ 
structible  ”  for  that 
length  of  time.  Its 
neatness  and  legibil¬ 
ity  will  commend  It 
to  those  amateurs 
who  do  not  mind  the 
slight  expense.  The 
cut  shows  the  label 
of  the  actual  size. 

The  back  is  of  zinc, 
with  an  edge  turned 
over  the  label,  which 
is  clearly  printed  on 
w  hite  paper,  and  has 
over  it  a  sheet  of  transparent  mica.  The  whole  is  w.a- 
ter-proof,  and  with  ordinary  usage  is  likely  to  remain 
perfectly  legible  for  many  years. 

A  Prolific  Apple  Tr«?e.— Mr.  C.  W. 
Wright,  of  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y.,  gives  an  account  of  a 
remarkable  tree  in  his  neighborhood.  It  is  a  greening, 
from  which  26  barrels  of  fruit  have  been  gathered  in  one 
year,  which,  assorted,  gave  20  barrels  of  marketable  fruit. 

IHon-lvearins  Pear  Trees.— Upon  look¬ 
ing  over  a  number  of  letters  complaining  of  a  want  of 
success  with  dwarf  pear  trees,  we  find  the  general  re¬ 
mark  that  the  tree  is  very  tlirifty  but  does  not  bear.  Many 
Kinds  are  a  long  while  before  tliey  fruit,  even  when  on 
quince  roots.  Frequently  the  early  fruiting  tendency 
.vhich  working  on  quince  gives  to  the  pear,  is  counter¬ 
acted  by  setting  tlie  tree  so  low  that  roots  start  from  the 
pear,  and  the  main  object  of  dwarfing  is  thus  neutralized. 
Trees  on  quince  may  be  kept  dwarf  by  proper  treatment 
when  young.  See  page  IT.  The  se  which  have  been  neg¬ 
lected  and  have  become  rampant  may  be  brought  into 
fruiting  by  a  gradual  shortening  of  both  tops  and  roots. 

Wliite  Willow  for  “  lletlgin^. 

Many  inquiries  come  in  regard  to  this  subject.  The  wil¬ 


low  does  not  make  a  proper  “  hedge,  ”  as  the  word  is 
generally  used,  but  a  live  fence,  furnishing  a  considerable 
supply  of  limber  or  fencing  stuff,  either  when  it  attains  its 
full  growth  and  is  cut  down,  or  when  it  is  topped  period¬ 
ically.  We  have  no  doubt  that  there  are  a  great  many 
places  where  the  willow  will  succeed  well,  and  make 
a  very  rapid  growth  and  a  secure  fence.  The  views  of 
one  of  the  editors  who  visited  tlie  most  notable  localities 
where  the  willow  has  been  used  for  live  fences,  wind 
breaks,  etc.,  are  given  at  length  in  the  American  Agri¬ 
culturist  for  December,  1863,  and  for  January,  1864. 

Il8a,rfierry  lle«lg'es. — J.  Schofield,  SnfTolk 
Co.,  Mass.,  observing  that  the  barberry  grows  freely  on 
rocky  soil,  asks  if  it  would  not  be  advisable  to  plant  a 
hedge  in  two  rows  and  place  stones  between  them.  We 
see  no  necessity  for  this,  as  we  have  known  a  fine  hedge 
on  land  where  not  a  stone  was  to  be  found.  It  makes 
a  dense  hedge  if  properly  clipped,  and,  like  all  other 
hedges,  should  be  cut  back  quite  severely  wliile  young. 

liarge  Beecl*  I.eaves. — H.  C.  Sanxay, 
Jefferson  Co.,  Ind.,  sends  specimens  of  remarkably  large 
leaves  from  the  lower  branches  of  a  beech.  They  meas¬ 
ure  a  trifle  over  nine  inches  long  and  six  inches  wide. 

“  Tlie  IIorticiiltMS’ist.” — This  long  es¬ 
tablished  "magazine  is  now  entirely  under  the  control  of 
the  Messrs.  Woodward,  who  have  engaged  a  corps  of 
well  known  contributors,  and  in  other  ways  display  a 
commendable  spirit  of  enterprise.  We  are  assured  that 
its  columns  will  not  be  devoted  to  puffing  the  stock  of 
any  particular  nurserymen,  but  that  they  shall  express 
unbought  opinions.  Under  its  new  management  we  liope 
lliat  lire  Horticulturist  will  regain  tlie  lone  and  spirit 
which  it  lost  with  the  lamented  Downing,  and  that  it  w  ill 
deservedly  receive  the  patronage  due  to  a  well  con¬ 
ducted  Horticultural  monthly  of  high  character. 

Ugiliinil  Cramlicri'ics. — H.  P.  Thornton 
and  other's.  We  have  not  seen  any  very  successful  beds 
upon  upland  or  ordinary  gai'den  soil, but  have  known  cases 
in  which  the  plants  were  a  long  while  I'n  determining 
whether  to  live  or  die.  If  any  of  our  I'eailei'S  have  a  good 
and  profitable  fruiting  bed  upon  any  upland  soil  we  shall 
bt  glad  to  hear  about  it,  and  if  not  too  far  away,  to  visit  it. 

ISoolc  on  Cnlinifo.— W.  R.  Tip- 

ton.  Munroe  Co.,  Ohio.  Barry’s  Fruit  Garden  is  good 
for  a  beginner  with  a  nui'serv  of  fi'uit  ti'ees.  We  do  not 
I'ecall  any  vvoi'k  published  in  English  which  is  wholly  de¬ 
voted  to  the  propagation  of  ornamental  ti'ees  and  shrubs. 


Cri-inrting-  Horse  ISadisIi. — Jessy  A. 
Kelly,  Canada  West,  wishes  to  know'  in  what  kind  of  a 
mill  hoi'se  radish  is  pi'epared.  The  principal  manufac- 
tui'er  in  this  city  uses  a  cylindrical  grater  of  tin,  of 
large  diameter,  which  has  a  balance  wheel  attached, 
and  is  revolved  by  means  of  a  treadle,  in  the  same  man¬ 
ner  as  a  lathe.  This  does  not  prevent  the  pungent  odor 
fr  om  arising  ;  but  the  w  orkman  gets  used  to  it  a.^er  a 
time,  just  as  the  girls  who  peel  onions  in  the  Dessicated 
Vegetable  Establishments  do  not  shed  a  tear,  while  a 
stranger  finds  the  atmosphere  of  the  room  intolerable. 


Can»4la,  Tlaistles  ©nee  More. — About 
every  month  we  are  requested  to  say  how  Canada  tliis- 
tlcs  may  be  killed.  We  know  that  frequent  and  per¬ 
sistent  cutting  down  the  plant  will  kill  it,  for  we  have 
trie.l  it.  We  know  that  in  one  instance  a  few  plants 
were  killed  by  cutting  close  to  the  ground,  and  putting  a 
handful  of  salt  on  the  root.  They  smother  the  thistle  at 
the  West  with  a  heavy  mulching  of  straw  ;  we  once  part¬ 
ly  succeeded  thus.  These  are  all  the  feasible  remedies 
we  know  of.  Good  friends,  if  w'e  learn  anything  new 
about  the  thistle  we  will  tell  it.  but  please  don’t  ask  us 
for  the  next  three  months  “  how  to  kill  Canada  thistles.” 

A  IVew  ■^Tectl. — Mr.  J.  F.  Halstead,  of 
Dutchess  Co.,  N.  Y.,  sends  a  specimen  of  the  Bladder 
Campion,  (Silene  inflata,)  wliich  he  states  is  abundant  as 
a  weed.  We  have  seen  the  plant  frequently,  but  never 
in  sufficient  quantities  to  be  considered  as  troublesome. 
Mr.  H.  says  that  fall  ploughing  will  not  kill  it.  It  has  a 
very  strong  root,  and  if  the  plants  are  not  too  numerous, 
they  might  be  pulled  one  by  one,  and  thus  be  eradicated. 


Is  "Wild  ISuclcwlieat  Poisoiioias  ? — 

C.  E.  Black,  Olmstead  Co.,  Minn.,  wishes  to  know  if 
the  seed  of  the  wild  buckwheat  may  be  fed  to  stock  with 
safety.  Wo  suppose  that  the  Climbing  Polygonum  (P. 
dumetorum),  with  fruit  looking  much  like  buckwheat,  is 
the  plant  referred  to.  Can  any  correspondent  give  the 
information  ?  The  different  species  of  Polygonum  vary 
so  much  in  their  properties,  that  it  is  not  safe  in  this  case 
to  judge  from  its  botanical  relationship. 


Tliirty-nine  Itiisliels  for  One.— W.  H 

Coleman,  Orange  Co.,  says  that  a  neighbor  who  planted 
one  bushel  of  peach-blow  potatoes,  cut  in  very  small 
pieces,  harvested  tlilrty-nine  bushels  of  good  potatoes. 

du1>«fbot  in  Cabfiag'e.— E.  Partridge, 
Waldo  Co.,  Me.  This  most  generally  affects  plants 
grown  on  ground  which  has  borne  the  same  crops  sev 
eral  years  in  succession.  Land  should  not  be  planted 
with  cabbages  oftener  than  once  in  three  or  four  years. 
Plants  on  new  land  are  seldom,  troubled  with  club-foot. 

IIo'»v  Miicli  Asparag'Uj^  in  a  ISnncIiV 

— F.  A  Schultz,  Mo.  The  bunches  are  not  put  up  by 
count,  for  the  New  York  market,  but  by  size.  A  bunch¬ 
ing  box  is  used,  which  is  filled  by  a  few  large  or  many 
small  stalks.  The  bunches  are  6  to  8  inches  in  diameter. 

Tlie  Fliilie  Potato.— T.  F.  S.  The  quality 
of  this  is  excellent,  and  it  is  extensively  grown  in  Western 
New  York.  We  cannot  speak  of  its  productiveness. 

Mamy  Sqiiaslies  from  One  Seed. — Mr. 

C.  S.  Coxhead,  Fort  Lee,  N.  Y.  raised  13  -squashes  on  a 
single  vine  of  the  Yokohama,  the  smallest  of  which  weigh¬ 
ed  8,  the  largest  16  lbs.  The  weight  of  the  w  liole— J4I}j{ 
lbs. — shows  that  this  excellent  variety  is  also  prolific, 

A  Tarft-e  Bassan©  Sleet.— W.  F.  Trues- 
dell,  Pike  Co.,  O.,  has  raised  a  10  lb.  beet,  wliich  is  very 
large  for  the  Bassano.  They  do  big  things  in  Ohio. 

Value  of  Certain  Roots  for  Fectl- 
Ing.— “  J.  W.  P.”  Po’keep.sie,  N.  Y.  The  value  of 
roots  of  the  same  kind,  though  of  different  varieties,  as 
of  the  several  kinds  of  turnips  for  instance,  may  be  ascer  ¬ 
tained  by  comparing  their  specijffc^raiii'riVs.  The  heavier 
they  are  in  proportion  to  the  bulk,  the  belter.  Thus  any 
one  can  tell  without  weighing  that  Frencli  turnips  are 
heavier  than  the  common  w  hite,  and  that  Rutabagas  are 
heavier  than  either.  The  rule  does  not  hold  so  well 
when  applied  to  different  kinds  of  roots.  These  take  rank 
about  as  follows turnips  of  the  English  and  French 
varieties  lowest ;  then  Swedes  and  Russia  turnips  ;  next 
Field  beets,  mangel-wurtzels,  parsnips  and  carrots. 

A  ©ood  Crop  of  Onions, — W.  R.  Tatem, 
formerly  with  a  Shaker  Society  in  Pennsylvania,  gives  an 
account  of  his  success  with  onions.  The  bed,  20x40  feet, 
had  been  plowed  deeply  the  previous  autumn.  In  spring 
it  had  a  shallow  plowing,  after  which  three  horse  loads 
of  fine  old  manure  were  spread  on  and  thoroughly  har¬ 
rowed  in.  Tne  bed  was  then  covered  with  straw,  ten 
inches  deep,  which  was  burned.  The  seed  was  sowed  in 
drills  14  inches  apart  and  rolled.  As  soon  as  the  seed  was 
up,  the  bed  was  sowed  over  with  one  busliel  of  a  mix¬ 
ture  of  %  hen  manure,  and  K  ashes,  w  hich  application 
was  repealed  tl^ree  times  during  the  early  part  of  the 
season.  The  o-nions  'were  carefully  hoed  and  weeded, 
and  when  as  large  as  one’s  thumb,  they  were  thinned  to 
two  inches  in  the  row.  The  result  was  30  bushels  of 
large  onions,  equal  to  about  1,000  bushels  to  the  acre. 

Ilaketl  Beasts. — A.  J.  Aldrich  suggests  that 
the  kidney  bean  is  much  better  when  baked,  than  the 
eommon  white  field  bean.  True,  and  Lima  is  better  still. 

Carrots  for  Horses. — “  J.”  Franklin  Co., 
Mass.  It  is  not  worth  while'to  feed  horses  carrots  in 
very  large  quantity.  The  feed  you  refer  to  (corn  and 
oats  ground  together,  and  used  on  cut  feed  wet  up,)  is  very 
good.  Carrots  produce  good  effects,  wiiich  cannot  be 
attributed  solely  to  their  nutrient  qualities,  but  are  a  little 
similar  to  those  compounds  which  ostlers  give  to  horses, 
called  “  condition  powders,”— mixtures  of  ginger,  gen¬ 
tian,  and  ani.se  seed,  with  a  small  quantity  of  sulphur, 
antimony,  or  aloes.  This  effect  is  noticed  when  the.se 
roots  are  fed  in  small  quantities,  and  does  not  seem  to  be 
increased,  if  they  are  fed  very  freely.  Potatoes,  sugar 
beets,  and  in  fact  any  roots  in  moderate  quantities,  are 
good  for  horses,  but  none  are  equal  to  carrots. 

Even  a  Small  <Sar«len  Fays. — Mrs. 
E.  Ripley,  Crawford  Co.,  Pa.,  gives  us  an  account  of 
the  returns  of  a  lot  of  ground,  20  by  25  feet,  w  hich 
yielded  vegetables  valued  at  $15,  and  she  had  also 
sweet  herbs  and  flowers,  not  included  in  the  estimate. 

Stra'svfiei'i'y  CJnerics, — "M.  R”.,  Cnn.andai- 
gua,  N.  Y.  The  Wilson  is  a  perfect  variely.  The  ques¬ 
tion  if  the  quality  of  the  fruit  of  a  pistillate  variety  is 
affected  by  the  character  of  the  st'aminate  vine  by  which 
it  is  fertilized,  is  yet  an  unsettled  one.  We  can  give 
equally  pood  authority  to  prove  that  it  is,  and  lliat  it  is 
not.  If  M.  R.  would  make  some  careful  experiments  in 
this  direction,  he  would  do  something  towards  settling  a 
disputed  point  in  horticulture,  that  needs  elucidation. 


1866.1 


AMERICAN  ACKICULTURIST. 


7 


Tl»e  Ciit-leaved  BSlacIctoerry.— H.  P. 

rjiornton,  Lawrence  County,  Indiana.  This  is  an  old 
rariety,  concerning  the  value  of  which  there  is  a  difference 
ef  opinion.  It  is  a  great  grower,  and  if  allowed  to  have 
Its  own  way  will  produce  weak  canes  15  or  20  feet  long 
and  but  little  fruit.  It  would  not  answer  your  purpose  as 
a  hedge  plant,  but  if  traineii  upon  a  fence  or  other  sup¬ 
port  would  prove  a  formidable  obstacle  to  trespassers. 
When  kept  cut  back,  it  produces  abundant  crops  of  targe, 
rather  late  fruit,  which  is  by  some  considered  of  fine 
quaiity,  but  to  others  again  it  has  an  unpleasant  flavor. 

Aspliodel.— H.  G.  Tyer,  Essex  Co.,  Mass. 
Asphodel  is  a  genus  of  plants  of  the  lily  family,  some  of 
which  are  occasionally  cultivEited  for  ornament.  Some  of 
the  species  are  emetic,  but  we  doubt  if  rats  are  so  afraid 
of  these  or  any  other  plants,  that  “  they  will  die  rather 
than  pass  over  them.”  All  the  o  d  herbals,  or  works  on 
plants,  are  full  of  such  stories  about  plants,  which  have 
of  later  years  been  proved  to  be  fanciful  or  erroneous. 

Seedling’  Oladiolits. — H.  H.  C.,  Mystic 
Bridge,  Conn.,  planted  some  Gladiolus  seed,  and  wishes 
to  know  if  he  is  likely  to  get  new  varieties,  and  how  to 
treat  his  young  bulbs.  If  the  seed  was  from  good  sorts 
there  will  doubtless  be  a  great  variety,  but  no  one  can 
foretell  whether  there  will  be  any  distinct  from  those 
now  in  cultivation.  Take  up  the  young  bulbs  and  put 
them  in  dry  earth  or  sand,  and  keep  them  in  some  place 
where  they  will  be  dry  and  always  cool,  but  not  freeze. 

Removing  Rjeoiiies. — A.  H.  C.,  Rutland, 
Mich.  Autumn  is  the  best  time  ;  they  may  be  trans¬ 
planted  very  early  in  spring,  but  do  not  flower  so  well. 

Miller’s  Propagating  Case. — This  tvas 
figured  in  the  Agriculturist  last  year,  and  there  have  been 
numerous  inquiries  as  to  where  it  can  be  had.  Mr.  M.  has 
left  the  city  and  we  know  of  none  for  sale.  They  are 
of  too  small  size  for  use  except  by  amateur  cultivators. 

Pansies. — A.  B.  Spaulding,  Windsor  Co.,  Vt. 
Pansies  will  not  do  well  in  the  house,  unless  kept  very 
"ool.  They  are  best  grown  by  sowing  the  seed  soon  after 
nidsummer,  and  setting  the  plants  in  a  cold  frame  to 
winter.  When  the  snow  remains  on  the  ground  all  win¬ 
ter,  plants  from  fall  sown  seed  will  give  a  fine  bloom  in 
early  spring  in  the  open  air. 

Camellias. — S.  H.  Harlan,  Champaign  Co., 
O.  If  a  gardener  told  you  that  camellias  “must  have  a 
peculiar  soil  found  near  Philadelphia,”  he  told  you  a  great 
fiece  of  nonsense.  They  will  do  in  any  light,  loamy 
soil,  rich  in  vegetable  matter.  Sods  from  an  old  pasture, 
allowed  to  decay,  and  then  mixed  with  clean  sand,  or 
good  garden  loam,  with  leaf  mould  from  the  woods,  will 
answer.  The  pots  must  have  ample  drainage. 

Dapline  Oclora. — C.  G.  Thompson  has  one 
that  does  not  bloom.  Cut  it  back  early  next  spring. 

Use  lip  tlie  Hoop  Slcirts. — A  subscri¬ 
ber  says  “  Tell  your  readers  to  throw  ladies’  old  hoops 
into  the  fire,  and  when  taken  out  they  will  be  found  per¬ 
fectly  annealed,  and  will  stay  twisted  in  any  form,  and  be 
extremely  useful  as  a  substitute  for  wire  in  a  thousand 
and  one  instances,”  Pray  use  up  the  old  hoops  in  some 
such  way,  they  are  a  nuisance  if  thrown  out  with  rubbish. 


Canary  Seed. — A  correspondent  states  th.at 
he  successfuliy  raised  a  quantity  of  this,  giving  the  same 
soil  and  treatment  as  oats,  but  does  not  state  the  yield. 


Plants  to  lie  Named. — H.  Goeriug,  Lo¬ 
rain  Co.,  0.  The  very  clever  drawing  is  that  of  Tecoma 
rodreares— sometimes  called  Bignonia — the  Trumpet 
creeper.  It  is  often  cultivated  as  an  ornamental  vine. 
.  ..Adeline  Howard,  Lee  Co.,  Ill., sends  the  fruit  of  the 
Spindle-tree,  also  called  Burning-bush  and  Wahoo — 
(Euonymus  atropurpureus).  It  is  a  fine  shrub,  and  very 
showy  in  autumn  on  account  of  its  brilliant  crimson 
seed  pods  —  D.  B.,  Volga  City,  Iowa,  sends  flowers  and 
roots  of  Mertensia  Virginica,  the  Virginian  Cowslip  or 
Lungroot.  It  is  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens,  a«d  is 
a  very  pretty  spring  flower  —  T.  O.  D.  The  plant  is 
Gentianapuberula — S.  S,  R.  M.,  Lewisburgh,  Pa.  The 
flower  is  Hibiscus  Sinensis,  or  close  to  it.  It  could  be 

propagated  from  cuttings  with  bottom  heat _ Irene  Cole, 

White  Co.,  Ind.  The  climber  is  Quamoclit  coccinea, 
sometimes  called  Ipumea.  figured  in  February  last.  The 
plant  described  is  probably  the  Leucoium  vernum,  the 
Spring  Snowflake— the  bulbs  of  which  are  sold  by 
seedsmen  ...M.  S.  Shaler,  Brown  Co.,  Wis.  The  vine 
is  Virgin’s  Bower,  Clematis  Virginiana.  One  Gerani¬ 
um  is  the  oak-leaved;  the  larger  one  nut  recognised. 
Mr.  R.  Allen,  York  Co.  Me.,  sends  the  Fringed  Gentian, 


Gentiana  crinita.  As  there  are  over  30  species  of  Aster, 

we  cannot  tell  the  one  described  without  a  specimen _ 

N.  Mason  Gates,  Middlesex  Co.  Conn.  Pelemonium 
coeruleum,  or  Greek  Valerian,  a  pretty  spring  bloomer. 

Mai-l. — “Ple.ase  state  wh.at  kind  of  soil  is  most 
benefited  by  the  use  of  mart— the  quantity  used,  and  how 
to  apply  it?”— E.  A.  P.  This  name  covers  a  great  variety 
of  materials  of  variable  fertilizing  value.  It  usually 
means  deposits  in  swamps,  or  former  lake  bottoms,  in 
wiiich  minute  shells  abound,  mixed  with  vegetable  and 
earthy  matter  (calcareous  marls.)  There  is  scarcely 
any  limit  to  the  quantity  which  may  be  used  without 
injury  to  the  soii,  though  a  maxitnum  good  -rllect  is 
often  attained  by  a  dressing  of  a  few  loads.  It  depends 
on  the  needs  of  the  soil  and  the  quality  of  the  marl.  It 
supplies  lime,  and  a  small  quantity  of  phosphoric  acid, 
together  with  the  peaty  substances  usually  found  in 
swamp  mud,  and  sometimes  a  notable  quantity  of  ammo¬ 
nia.  Dig  it  this  winter,expose  it  to  the  action  of  frost,  and 
apply  20  to  50  loatis  per  acre,  on  various  crops.  The  best 
effects  are  on  heavy  soiis,  poor  in  organic  matter  and  lime. 

How  Miicli  B>ocs  drain  Slai-iiilc. — 

A  correspondent  of  the  Prairie  Farmer  states  that  75  lbs. 
of  corn  on  the  ear  weighed  when  dried,  including  the 
cobs,  only  GO  lbs, — a  shrinkage  of  20  per  cent.  The  de¬ 
crease  of  each  separately  is  not  stated.  Definite  knowl¬ 
edge  on  tliis  point  will  enable  producers  to  properly 
graduate  the  price  of  corn  according  to  the  srason  of 
seiling.  Careful  experiments  with  this  and  other  grains 
are  much  needed.  Wlio  will  make  them  and  give  the 
results  for  publication  in  the  American  Agriculturist! 


Blow  Msjoli  ^anil  anti  dfavel  in 
rflortar,  Cojicrete,  etc.— Take  a  box  and  nearly 
fill  it  wiih  coarse  gravel  ;  add  to  this  as  much  of  a 
quality,  the  stones  in  which  will  average  I-8th  to  1-lOth  of 
the  diameter  of  the  coarser  kind,  as  can  be  worked  into 
the  mass  without  materially  increasing  its  bulk  ;  then 
add  all  tile  fine,  dry,  sharp  sand,  free  from  dust  or  dirt, 
that  can  he  worked  into  the  whole.  If  the  exact  quantities 
used  of  each  material  be  known,  you  witl  have  a  means 
of  estimating  the  proportions  you  will  need.  To  make 
such  a  mixture  of  sand  and  gravel  a  perfect  mot  tar,  it 
needs  to  be  mixed  with  lime  slaked  to  a  creamy  consist¬ 
ency,  so  that  each  particle  shall  be  covered  with  the 
lime,  and  the  spaces  between  tliem  filled.  This  is  the 
theory  of  a  perfect  mortar — rarely  reached  in  practice. 

Concrete  Fence  I*osts.— “  If  concrete  is 
strong  enough  for  water  pipes,  w  hy  will  it  not  make  good 
fence  posts?”  This  is  in  effect  the  inquiry  of  a  sub¬ 
scriber  in  Bond  Co.,  Ill,  The  material  has  strength 
enough,  but  would  need  to  be  protected  to  some  extent 
against  the  action  of  frost  on  the  surface;  if  made  hollow, 
posts  might  become  filled  with  water,  and  split  by  freezing. 

Aecnmiilating'  Power. — A  sub¬ 

scriber  writes  that  he  has  an  invention  w  hereby  the  power 
of  a  wind-mill  maybe  accumulated  when  the  wind  blows, 
and  the  power  is  not  in  use,  in  such  a  way  that  it  may 
be  used  w'hen  the  wind  does  not  blow.  There  is  no  rea¬ 
son  why  some  such  thing  should  not  be  successful,  and 
if  so  it  would  be  very  valuable  ;  but  many  inventors  have 
tried  to  do  this  and  failed  to  make  it  practical. 

Uig-latiiing'  ISod  Hitmlmg'. — Perry  W. 
Clark,  Onondaga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  writes  that  the  following 
game  was  played  in  that  vicinity  last  summer,  by  opera¬ 
tors  who  quite  likely  are  now  at  work  in  other  parts : 
An  agent  agrees  to  put  up  lightning  rods  on  buildings  to 
remain  a  year  on  trial.  He  gives  a  written  agreement 
that  if  they  suit  and  are  wanted  at  the  end  of  the  year, 
all  right ;  if  not  he  is  to  remove  them  without  cost  to  the 
parties.  He  takes  what  he  calls  an  “  Order  ”  for  the 
rods,  bu*  what  in  reality  is  a  promissory  note,  which  he 
sells  to  the  first  note  broker  that  will  buy.  In  this  way 
thousands  of  dollars  were  taken  from  the  writer’s  section 
of  country,  and  for  no  really  good  equivalent  returned. 

liOolc  Out  tfbi*  the  “CSas”  Man. — 

There  is  a  chap  out  West  selling  the  right  to  “  make 
and  use  Olefiant  Gas.”  He  charges  only  one  dollar  for 
the  recipe,  which  is  as  follows:  2  quarts  alcohol,  1  pint 
camphene,  2  ounces  of  alum,  1  teaspoonful  of  “  Cucuma  ” 
liquid.  Mix,  let  stand  12  hours,  then  use.— This  is  not 
gas  at  all,  but  only  the  old  and  dangerous  burning  fluid 
with  alum  added,  and  colored  by  “  Cucuma,”  which 
should  be  Curcuma— but  these  humbugs  are  generally  illit¬ 
erate.  At  the  present  price  of  materials,  this  would 
be  a  very  expensive,  as  well  as  a  very  dangerous  light. 

Qiiaclc  Hoctors. — P.  S.  M.,  sends  ns  a  cir¬ 
cular  of  wonderful  cures,  and  asks  if  the  man  is  reliable, 
alleging  as  a  reason  for  his  caution,  that  he  was  once 
humbugged  out  of  $25  by  a  “doctor”  In  New  York. 


Now  if  there  is  one  thing  tiiat  w  e  have  tried  to  set  forth 
in  language  so  plain  that  it  could  not  be  mistaken,  it  is 
that  no  physician  who  advertises  certificates  of  cures  is 
fit  to  be  trusted.  One  lesson  of  experience  ought  to  con¬ 
vince  our  correspondent  of  the  truth  tf  our  position. 

New  Bliimtxig-— latei'iialional  and 

Home  College. — An  enterpri.sing  genius  is  se-nding 
out  circulars  from  New  Vork  City,  to  induce  young  men 
to  enter  his  “  Coliege,”  and  st.ay  at  home  at  the  same 
time.  For  $50  he  promises  a  “  mail  scholarship” — what 
that  means  we  do  not  know,  only  that  $50  will  not  be 
safely  invested  in  any  such  operation.  It  is  nonsense  to 
talk  of  fitting  a  young  man  for  business  by  mail.  No  re¬ 
liable  business  college,  and  many  are  reliable,  professes 
to  do  any  thing  of  the  sort.  Readers  of  the  American 
Agriculturist  will  not  be  caught  bv  such  a  tran.spaient 
swindle.  The  “  Professor”  in  this  enterprise  has  bten 
placed  under  police  surveillance. 

Don’t  l»e  Hiiml»wj»-g-e«l  by  circulars  froa 
Fletcher  Brothers  ;  T.  Sherman  &  Co.  ;  George  P.  Hai 
per;  Cosmopolitan  Art  Union  Association  ;  by  the  mar 
who  wants  to  have  somebody  in  your  neighborhood  draw 
a  lottery  prize  to  help  his  bu.'iness  along;  by  the  mar- 
who  says  “  your  ticket  has  drawn  a  prize,  but  you  mus- 
send  him  ten  dollars,  and  he  will  lie  for  you  ;”  nor  by  any 
other  man  that  wants  to  give  y-ou  ever  so  many  hundred 
cents’  worth  for  a  dollar  paid  him  in  advance. 

AmcrieaM  Weeds  and  Useful 

Plants. — This  is  an  illustrated  treati.'e  upon  those 
plant.'  which  are  interesting  to  the  cultivator,  eitlier  as 
objects-  of  his  care,  or  as  intruders  upon  his  premises. 
The  descriptions  are  both  popular  and  scientific,  and  are 
interspersed  with  many  interesting  observations.  A  con¬ 
densed  account  of  the  structure  of  plants,  which  prefaces 
the  descriptive  portion  of  the  work,  will,  if  carefully- 
studied,  enable  any  intelligent  person  to  refer  a  plant  to 
its  proper  family.  We  commend  this  work  to  those  who 
have  a  desire  to  know  something  of  the  plants  they  daily- 
meet.  A  new  edition  is  to  be  issued  Jan.  15.  Price  $1.50. 

Dili*  8iininllesit  Siilisorilycr. — We  haye 

many  young  subscribers,  little  boys  and  girls,  some  of 
whom  earn  the  money  and  forward  it  them  selves,  but 
here  is  one  not  so  young:  A  man  in  Clark  Co.,  Ohio,  in 
renewing  his  subscription  for  1865,  writes:  “I  suppose  I 
am  the  smallest  subscriber  the  American  Agriculturist 
has  of  my  age.  I  am  thirty-one  years  old,  46  inches  high, 
and  w'eigh  55  pounds.” — About  like  a  6  or  "  year-old  boy. 

Cniimmed  Oil  wbich  has  thickened  on 

wheel  axles  can  be  readily  removed  with  a  little  kerosene. 

Mcssvs.  Fnftersoii  BSro^.,  at  27  Park 
Row',  are  not  only  good  men  and  excellent  neighbors, 
but  they  keep  a  very  convenient  down  town  retail  .and 
wholesale  establishment,  where  we  always  expect  to 
find  anything  and  every  thing  wanted  in  the  Hardware 
line,  from  a  tack  up  to  a  whole  chest  of  tools— not  to 
specify  a  large  assortment  of  skates;  and  we  believe 
their  articles  are  good  and  sold  at  reasonable  rates. 

'File  Fennsylvania  Agfricnltiii-al 
College. — It  will  be  seen  that  the  seventh  session  of 
this  Institution  is  announced  in  our  advertising  columns. 
Dr.  Wm.  H.  Allen,  formerly  president  of  Girard  College, 
has  been  elected  to  fill  the  vacancy  occasioned  by  the 
death  of  Dr.  Pugh,  the  former  president.  We  hope  the 
college  may  have  that  encouragement  and  support  which 
will  ensure  for  it  a  useful  and  successful  career. 

'File  Massacliiisetts  Agricultural 
College. — We  learn  that  Massachusetts  has  sold  a  good 
portion  of  her  land  scrip  and  purchased  400  acres  o.  .tnd 
at  Amherst,  upon  which  it  is  intended  soon  to  erect  the 
necessary  buildings.  Judge  H.  F.  French,  well  known 
as  a  writer  on  agricultural  subjects,  has  been  chosen  as 
President  hy  the  board  of  trustees,  and  is  engaged  in  the 
preparatory  work  of  organization.  An  agricultural  col¬ 
lege  worthy  of  Massachusetts  should  be  entirely  indepen¬ 
dent  of  existing  institutions,  be  endowed  with  abundant 
means,  and  be  able  to  command  the  very  highest  talent. 

Report  of  tlie  Department  of 
culture,  1863. — Now  that  tlie  year ’64  is  just  ex¬ 
piring,  the  report  for  ’63  makes  its  appearance,  a  delay 
said  to  be  caused  in  part  by  the  great  press  ot  public 
printing.  The  work  forms  a  handsome  volume  of  700 
pages,  which  is  about  twice  as  large  as  need  be,  did  the 
writers  exercise  ordinary  conciseness.  The-e  are  arti¬ 
cles  on  a  wide  range  of  agricultural  and  horlicullural 
subjects  from  writers,  some  of  whom  are  well  known, 
and  others  not  known  at  all.  Some  of  the  articles  are 
valuable,  and  others  are  mere  talk,  and  they  are  illus¬ 
trated  hv  numerous  wood  engravings,  paa-t  of  which  are 


8 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Jaiicabt, 


very  good,  and  others  very  wooden.  Upon  the  whole,  it 
Is  the  best  specimen  of  Government  book-making  we 
have  yet  seen  in  the  way  of  an  Agricultural  Report,  and 
will  doubtless  be  very  acceptable  to  members  of  Con¬ 
gress  to  present  to  their  political  adherents.  If  we  were 
not  rapidly  accumulating  an  enormous  public  debt,  it 
might  be  well  to  publisli  volumes  of  essays,  poetical 
quot.ations  and  all,  at  the  expense  of  the  general  treas¬ 
ury,  but  just  at  present  it  does  not  strike  us  as  wise.  We 
would  have  the  Department  of  Agriculture  liberally 
enough  provided  for  to  secure  the  services  of  an  able 
head,  and  to  publish  a  well  digested  account  of  the  ag¬ 
riculture  of  the  country,  but  it  is  quite  time  that  this 
“spinning  of  yarns”  came  to  an  end.  Still,  as  long  as 
the  present  plan  of  publishing  a  book  of  treatises  and 
calling  it  a  report,  is  adhered  to,  we  may  be  thankful  that 
the  work  Is,  upon  the  whole,  so  good.  Mr.  Newton  pre¬ 
faces  the  volume  with  an  account  of  the  operations  of  the 
Department  and  things  in  general,  and  closes  with  the 
following,  which  is  about  as  pretty  a  specimen  of  “  hifa- 
lutin  ”  as  one  would  need  for  a  snapper  to  a  4th  of  July 
oration;  “  A.mighty  giant,  resting  firmly  on  the  soil,  and 
acquiring  development  and  strength  by  toil,  by  thought, 
and  by  equity,  our  republic  will  dominate  the  western 
continent  and  adjacent  seas,  and  command  the  fear  and 
the  respect  of  all  nations.”  Now  we  call  that  good  in  the 
way  of  fine  writing.  It  should  have  been  accompanied 
by  an  illustration  of  the  “  mighty  giant  resting  firmly  on 
the  soil,”  with  “  all  nations  ”  paying  their  respects  to  him. 

The  Great  ITnioit  Victories  are  knock¬ 
ing  down  gold,  and  most  kinds  of  produce  are  falling  with 
It.  Prices  are  considerably  lower  to-day  than  given  in 
our  table  on  page  3,  which  was  stereotyped  last  evening. 

The  Best  Bictiomary.— F.  Smith  and 
others  wish  to  know  whether  we  consider  Worcester’s 
or  Webster’s  the  best  dictionary.  Tlie  war  of  the  dic¬ 
tionaries  is  waged  with  sufficient  vigor  by  their  pub- 
.ishers,  and  it  is  too  pretty  a  fight,  as  it  stands,  lor  the 
Agriculturist  to  throw  its  weight  in  favor  of  either.  We 
keep  both  these  works  standing  side  by  side,  and  find 
that  each  has  some  advantages  over  tlie  other.  The 
editorial  staff  keep  up  a  private  battle  of  their  own  over 
this  question,  and  until  they  can  agree  among  themselves, 
they  will  not  undertake  to  indicate  a  preference. 


Size  of  Blocks  of  Ice  for  Filliiigi  the 
Ice-House.— When  ice  is  packed  solid,  there  is  no 
thawing  except  on  the  outside  of  the  mass,  hence  it  is  best 
to  cut  the  blocks  as  uniformly  as  possible  so  that  they 
will  pack  snugly  and  regularly.  Thus  if  the  house  is  12 
feet  square,  blocks  2x3  would  make  a  layer  having  six 
biocks  one  way  and  four  the  other.  And  the  next  lay¬ 
er  might  be  placed  to  break  joints  with  th6  first,  and  so  on. 

Ice  OM  the  Boor-step. — Many  a  fall  and 
severe  hurt  has  been  occasioned  by  ice  on  the  door-step 
or  in  similar  places.  If  it  is  frozen  fast  it  may  be  covered 
with  a  little  coal  ashes  and  so  made  safe  to  walk  upon,  but 
this  makes  it  dirty  and  the  ashes  are  tracked  into  the 
house.  Many  persons  use  salt  on  such  spots  to  thaw  the 
ice  ;  this  is  well,  if  properly  done.  Remember  that  a 
mixture  of  snow  or  ice  and  salt  produces  at  once  the  tem¬ 
perature  of  zero  of  Fahrenheit.  In  fact,  that  is  the  way 
Fahrenheit  fixed  his  0  point.  Every  person  stepping 
on  the  salted  spots  carries  off  upon  his  feet  more  or  less 
of  the  salt  which  so  long  as  it  remains  on  his  feet  keeps 
the  soles  at  or  near  a  zero  temperature— certainly  much 
colder  than  they  would  be  otherwise.  In  many  towns 
where  it  is  not  forbidden  by  law,  this  salting  the  side¬ 
walks  is  an  Intolerable  nuisance.  Salt  may  be  used  if 
necessary,  but  clear  off  every  particle  of  it  as  soon  as 
it  has  thawed  the  ice,  which  will  be  in  a  few  minutes. 

Suntlay  School  Tesson-Book,  I^'o.  3, 

was  unexpectedly  delayed  until  Dec.  22.  Few  can 
appreciate  the  great  amount  of  labor  in  preparing  this 
book  of  only  112  pages,  and  getting  it  correctly  through 
the  printers’ hands,  w  ith  its  many  thousands  of  reference 
figures,  etc.  Very  few  books  of  any  kind  have  required 
or  received  so  much  mental  labor  as  is  being  expended 
upon  this  series.  Nos.  1,  2,  and  3,  are  now  ready.  No. 

4  is  mainly  written,  but  will  not  be  through  the  printers’ 
hands  in  some  months  yet.  The  four  books,  each  con¬ 
taining  52  exercises,  entitled  “  Lessons  for  every  Sunday 
m  the  year,"  go  over  the  whole  Bible  History— the  lessons 
being  selected  from  nearly  every  book  in  the  Old  and 
New  Testaments,  with  a  running  outline  history  con¬ 
necting  them  all  together.  No  1  extends  from  the  Birth 
of  Christ  to  the  end  of  Acts.  No.  2  embraces  the  whole 
New  Testament,  but  is  mainly  upon  the  books  following 
the  Acts  of  the  Apostles.  No.  3,  upon  the  Old  Testa¬ 
ment,  extends  from  Adam  to  Elijah  ;  and  No.  4  will  con¬ 
tain  the  histoi7  from  Elijah  to  Christ.  Nos.  3  and  4  con¬ 
tain  lessons  selected  from  the  historical  and  prophetical 
books,  the  Psalms,  Proverbs,  etc.,  all  arranged  in  order  I 


of  time  ;  with  a  running  history,  which  presents  a  pano¬ 
ramic  view  of  the  whole  Old  Testament  period — interest¬ 
ing  to  all  classes,  though  expressly  prepared  for  Sabbath 
Schools.  An  examination  of  the  plan,  and  peculiar  fea¬ 
tures  of  these  books,  is  respectfully  suggested.  The 
price  of  each  volume  is  15  cents  for  a  single  copy  ;  $1  50 
per  dozen  ;  $12  per  100.  If  to  go  by  mail,  4  cents  a  copy 
extra,  or  3  cents  each  when  in  a  package  of  10  or  more. 
Single  copies  of  1,  2,  or  3,  for  examination,  will  be 
sent  post-paid,  for  18  cents ;  or  three  copies  for  50  cents. 

Valiiakle  legislative  Boemment. — 

At  the  last  session  of  the  Legislature  of  the  State  of  New- 
York,  the  State  Assessors  made  individual  reports  upon 
the  Resources  of  the  State.  The  report  of  Mr.  Theodore 
C.  Peters  has  recently  come  under  our  particular  notice, 
and  it  is  gratifying  to  find  evidence  of  a  trust  so  faithfully 
executed.  As  an  agricultural  survey  of  the  State,  indi¬ 
cating  the  influences  which  have  been  in  operation  in 
different  parts  of  this  State  (roads,  markets,  manufac- 
uring  interests,  mining,  etc,,)  serving  to  increase  the 
value  of  real  estate  and  personal  wealth,  it  is  most  sug¬ 
gestive  and  important.  Mr.  Peters  has  certainly  given 
an  example  which  the  Assessors  in  other  Stales  will  do 
well  to  imitate.  Since  his  appointment  he  has  personally 
inspected  ever  y  county  and  almost  township  in  the  Stale. 
The  whole  report  is  suggestive  of  grave  faults  in  the  sys¬ 
tems  of  census  taking  employed  by  the  National  and 
State  governments,  and  of  improvements  much  needed. 

I^ewspaper  Box.— Many  of  the  subscribers 

of  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist  receive  their  pa¬ 
pers  by  news-carriers  or 
post-men  who  leave  them 
at  their  doors.  When  a 
house  is  distant  from  the 
highway  it  is  a  common 
practice  to  have  the  pa¬ 
per  thrown  out  near  the 
gate,  or  deposited  in  a  rai¬ 
sin  box  or  similar  con¬ 
trivance  nailed  upon  a 
tree  or  post.  We  have 
sketched  and  engraved  a 
good  substitute — a  post 
with  a  hollow  in  the  top 
and  a  hole  in  the  side, 
as  indicated  by  dotted 
lines,  to  be  set  near  the 
road.  This  will  be  found 
excellent  for  receiving 
papers.  The  post  is  10 
inches  square,  solid,  and 
5  feet  out  of  ground.  The 
opening  should  be  wide 
enough  to  admit  a  man’s 
hand  easily.  Fasten  the 
top  on  with  wooden  pins, 
and  paint  white  or  protect 
w  ith  a  coat  of  iinseedoil. 


llsird  and  Soft  Water  tor  Cooking. 

The  effects  of  hard  and  soft  water  on  different  vegeta¬ 
bles  vary  materially.  Peas  and  beans  cooked  in  hard 
water.contaiidng  lime  or  gypsum,  will  not  boil  tender,  be¬ 
cause  these  substances  harden  vegetable  casein.  In  soft 
water  they  boil  tender  and  lose  a  certain  rank  raw  taste 
wliich  they  retain  in  hard  water.  Many  vegetables  (as 
onions)  boil  nearly  tasteless  in  soft  water  because  all  the 
flavor  is  dissolved  out.  The  addition  of  salt  often  checks 
this,  (as  in  the  case  of  onions,)  causing  the  vegetables  to 
retain  the  peculiar  flavoring  principles,  besides  much  nu¬ 
tritious  matter  which  might  be  lost  in  soft  water.  Thus  it 
appears  that  salt  hardens  the  water  to  a  degree.  For 
extracting  the  juices  of  meat  to  make  broth  or  soup,  soft 
water,  unsalted  and  cold  at  first,  is  best,  for  it  much 
more  readily  penetrates  the  tissues  ;  but  for  boiling  meat 
where  the  juices  should  be  retained,  hard  water  or  soft 
water  salted  is  preferable,  and  the  meat  should  be  put  in 
w  hile  it  is  boiling  so  as  to  seal  up  the  pores  at  once. 

Scrap  Books  for  tlic  Soldiers. — 

Not  long  since  some  unknown  person  left  a  small  pack¬ 
age  at  the  office  of  the  A  merican  Agriculturist  contain¬ 
ing  two  “  Scrap  Books  for  Soldiers.  ”  They  were  neatly 
made  from  sheets  of  paper  stitched  together,  on  which 
were  pasted  all  sorts  of  interesting  reading  cut  from 
newspapers,  and  designed  to  be  sent  to  the  Military  tlos. 
pitals  for  the  use  of  sick  and  wounded  soldiers.  With  a 
very  little  effort  our  young  readers  can,  in  a  short  time, 
make  thousands  of  similar  books,  and  send  them  through 
the  Sanitary  and  Christian  Commissions  to  the  Hospitals 
and  camps,  where  they  will  be  most  welcome.  The  se¬ 
lection  of  pieces  should  include  plenty  of  lively  and 
amusing  articles,  mingled  with  those  of  a  mote  grave 
and  thoughtful  chaiacter.  The  books  will  be  of  more 


service  if  sewed  into  flexible  covets,  made  by  past 
ing  stiff,  heavy  paper  upon  dark  colored  glazed  muslin 

The  First  Subtsci'ipiioit  .at  the  New 

Terms,  was  sent  by  Mr.  John  Rail,  of  Cedar  County, 
Iowa,  Nov.  11th,  with  the  remark  that  if  we  “could  not 
afford  the  paper  next  month  for  $1,  we  could  not  do  it 
then,”  and  that  “if  20,000  others  would  do  the  same,  it 
would  help  out  materially  in  the  expense.” - Such  ex¬ 

pressions  of  appreciation  of  which  many  have  been  re¬ 
ceived,  are  grateful,  and  stimulate  the  editors  to  increased 
exertion.  The  ;new  Terms  were  announced  to  go  into 
effect  a  month  later,  so  as  to  take  no  one  by  surprise, 
though  they  ought  to  have  included  all  subscriptions  re¬ 
ceived,  as  the  present  rates  are  none  too  high  to  meet 
the  increased  expenses.  We  hope  those  who  availed 
themselves  of  the  old  terms,  prior  to  Dec.  1st.  will  each 
send  at  least  one  new  name  at  the  new  terms,  and  thus 
make  the  two  subscriptions  average  $1.25,  the  lowest  rate 
at  which  less  than  20  subscriptions  can  be  well  affoided. 

Plain  nieu  Slioitld  Write  Bore.— 

As  a  rule,  the  best  workers  are  the  poorest  writers.  Those 
who  do  work  the  best  are  the  least  able,  or  rather  the 
least  willing,  to  talk  or  write  about  it.  You.  good  farmer, 
gardener,  fruitgrower,  stock  raiser,  and  you  good  house 
keeper,  please  talk  to  us  on  paper  just  as  you  would  talk 
to  us  byword  of  mouth,  if  we  were  visiting  you.  We 
want  to  gather  some  hint  from  your  successful  mode  of 
operation,  to  tell  to  half  a  million  of  others.  Never  mind 
fixing  up  the  style  of  the  words  and  sentences — it  is  the 
editor’s  business  to  attend  to  that.  Give  us  the  facts,  and 
we  will  take  care  of  the  language  and  the  grammar. 

“Information  Wanted” and  “Giv¬ 
en,”  might  be  the  standing  heading  to  this  journal.  Its 
proper  sphere  is,to  gather  and  communicate  all  the  infor¬ 
mation  possible,  upon  all  topics  apuropriate  to  its 
sphere;  to  examine,  sift,  and  “boil  down  ”  all  the  facts, 
experiences-,  hints  and  suggestions  that  can  be  obtained 
from  observation,  from  reading,  from  conversation,  and 
especially  from  letters  from  our  readers.  We  solicit 
tliese  letters  in  unlimited  number.  No  one  should  write 
merely  for  tlie  sake  of  rvriting  ;  but  every  fact— every 
hint  drawn  from  successful  or  unsuccessful  experience 
in  cultivating  grains,  grasses,  vegetables,  fruits,  flowers, 
etc. ;  in  using  and  caring  for  animals  ;  in  marketing  pro¬ 
ducts  ;  in  conducting  household  labors— should  be  noted 
down,  with  all  necessary  details,  and  reported  for  the 
benefit  of  others.  If  one  has  a  better  implement  than  any 
of  his  neighbors,  or  a  better  or  more  successful  method 
of  conducting  any  operation,  or  of  treating  this,  that,  or 
the  other  thing,  the  chances  are  that  tens  of  thousands  of 
others  elsewhere  will  be  benefited  by  learning  something 
about  it ;  and  an  account  should  be  sent  to  the  Agricul¬ 
turist.  The  letters  may  not  always  be  used,  for  reasons 
which  the  editors  can  not  take  time  or  room  to  exidain  ; 
but  all  these  items  go  to  make  up  a  mass  of  information, 
of  w  hich  every  printed  line  is  read  by  hundreds  of  thou¬ 
sands.  We  solicit  suggestive  queries  from  each  of  oui 
readers  as  a  help  to  our  labors.  Many  questions  go  un¬ 
answered,  because  we  can  not  at  once  give  or  obtain  the 
information  sought.  But  send  along  the  items,  the  ques¬ 
tions,  etc.,  and  we  will  do  the  best  w  e  can  w  ith  them  ; 
always  having  an  eye  to  “  the  greatest  good  of  the  great¬ 
est  number.” 


The  Grape  Controversy— Dr.  Grant  and 
Mr.  Bushnell,  v&rsus  Mr.  H.  P.  Byram. 

Last  month  we  published  a  communication  from  H.  1 
Byram,  Esq.,  in  reference  to  the  Israellaand  Iona  grapes 
This  came  wholly  unsolicited  and  unexpected.  We  hac 
known  Mr.  By  ram  favorably  as  Editor  of  the  Valley  Farm¬ 
er,  and  as  a  Horticultural  writer,  and  from  his  general 
character  and  standing  we  supposed  his  statements  reli¬ 
able.  Had  wc  thought  differently.or  had  we  suspected  him 
to  be  governed  by  any  personal  feelings,  the  communica¬ 
tion  would  have  been  rejected  ;  and  had  we  ourselves  har¬ 
bored  any  ill-feeling  or  had  any  personal  difficulty  with 
Dr.  Grant  we  should  have  been  very  careful  not  to  admit 
into  our  columns  any  thing  which  would  have  even  had  the 
appearance  of  malice.  The  communication  was  printed  as 
one  of  the  items  interesting  in  these  days  when  the  grape 
fever  rages  everywhere.  We  fully  ex[iected  that  any  er¬ 
ror  of  fact  or  observation  would  be  corrected,  and  our 
columns  were  freely  open  for  any  such  corrections.  In 
the  present  paper  Mr.  Bushnell  (Dr.  Grant’s  foreman),  in 
the  reading  columns,  and  Dr.  Grant  himself  in  the  busi¬ 
ness  columns,  flatly  contradicts  Mr.  Byram’s  statements 
and  deductions.  The  question  is  reduced  to  one  of  ve¬ 
racity  between  Mr.  Byram  on  the  one  hand, and  Dr.  Grant 
and  Mr  Bushnell  on  the  other.  We  can  hardly  be  con¬ 
sidered  a  parly  to  the  contest,  further  than  to  publish 
what  may  be  said  on  both  sides,  where  we  judge  the 
public  interest  will  be  subserved  by  such  publication. 


1805.] 


A  M  E  Tl  r  G  A  N  AG-  R I O  U  LT  U  RI  ST. 


9 


The  East  Indian  Buffalo. 

An  agricultural  show  was  held  last  winter  at 
Calcutta,  at  which  prizes  were  awarded  to  ani¬ 
mals  of  the  native  breeds,  and  among  others  to 
the  domestic  buffalo.  We  give  herewith  a  picture 
of  a  prize  buffalo  cow,  and 
as  no  animals  of  this  kind 
have  ever  been  imported  to 
America,  so  far  as  we  are  in¬ 
formed,  certainly  not  for 
economical  purposes,  it  is 
well  to  consider  their  quali¬ 
ties.  The  buffalo  {Bos  buba- 
Itis)  is  a  native  of  India,  and 
is  now  found  wild  in  great 
numbers,  inhabiting  the  low 
grounds  and  swamps  near 
the  river  banks,  on  the  bor¬ 
ders  of  the  great  forests, 
choosing  the  coarse,  rank 
vegetation  of  such  localities 
in  preference  to  other  food. 

The  wild  animals  are  of  im¬ 
mense  size,  sometimes  meas¬ 
uring  101  feet  from  muzzle 
to  rump,  and  standing  G  feet 
to  6i  feet  high.  They  are 
shaped  much  like  oxen,  but 
are  coarse  and  ungainly, 
large-boned,  heavy,  thick 
limbed,  very  po-n'erful  and 
vindictive,  and  do  not  hesi¬ 
tate  to  attack  a  tiger  or  even 
an  elephant,  which  according 
to  reports  they  sometimes  do  with  success.  The 
horns  are  perhaps  the  most  remarkable  feature. 
These  grow  horizontally  from  the  frontal  bone, 
curving  a  little  backward,  and  upward,  and  for¬ 
ward  toward  the  tips.  The  bases  of  the  horns 
are  flattened  and  corrugated,  and  the  distance 
from  tip  to  tip  sometimes  measures  ten  feet. 
This  animal  loves  to  wallow 
m  the  mud,  like  the  swine 
iiid  rhinoceros,  and  in  its 
wild  state  is  never  found  far 
from  water.  In  a  state  of 
domestication,  buffaloes  of 
both  sexes  are  valued  for  the 
yoke  and  for  their  hides,  and 
the  cows  for  yielding  very 
good  milk.  The  beef  is  of 
poor  quality.  It  is  said  that 
the  wild  ones  are  always  fat, 
and  the  domestic  always  lean 
and  skinny.  This  can  only 
be  the  result  of  poor  care,  for 
there  is  scarcely  another  ani¬ 
mal  which  has  changed  so 
.Ittle  after  thousands  of  years 
of  domestication.  The  buf¬ 
falo  is  found  in  Italy,  Greece, 
and  Turkey,  and  is  valued 
for  great  strength  in  the 
yoke  and  ability  to  live  on 
very  coarse  fare.  Tlie  Cape 
buffalo  of  South  Africa  is 
another  species;  the  Ameri¬ 
can  Bison  which  we  com¬ 
monly  call  Buffalo,  is  really 
no  buffalo  at  all.  The 
great  swamps  which  abound 
among  the  lowlands  of  Louisiana,  Florida, 
and  other  parts  of  the  Southern  States,  would 
doubtless  afford  congenial  and  excellent  pas¬ 
turage  for  these  animals,  and  it  has  repeatedly 
occurred  tons  that  they  might  prove  a  valu¬ 
able  kind  of  stock  for  those  extensive  districts, 


which  are  now  inhabited  chiefly  by  alligators, 
turtles,  a  few'  deer,  bears,  opossums  and  copper¬ 
heads.  This  is  the  only  one  of  the  bovine  genus 
(except  its  brother  the  Cape  buffalo)  which 
thrives  in  low  and  marshy  ground.  Cattle  left 
to  their  own  choice  will  seek  their  pasturage 


and  make  their  lairs,  not  for  from  water,  but  in 
dry  meadows,  in  valleys  or  on  the  liiil-sides. 


Heat  Cattle  of  Southern  Asia. 


At  the  Calcutta  cattle  show,  the  same  at 
which  the  buffalo  cow,  mentioned  above,  to  .k 


a  prize,  some  long-horned  oxen  were  exhibit¬ 
ed  from  the  Province  of  Oude.  We  have  had 
several  importations  of  India  cattle  into  this 
country,  attempts  having  been  made  to  test 
their  adaptation  to  the  Southern  Slates — some, 
if  not  all  of  which  experiments  liave  certainly 


been  frustrated  by  the  rebellion.  These,  so 
far  as  we  know,  and  we  have  seen  several  ol 
the  animals,  were  of  tlie  short-horned  breed,  so 
much  esteemed  in  tlie  East  as  saddle  and  car¬ 
riage  beasts.  The  one  here  represeuie'd  was  en¬ 
graved  from  a  photograph,  hence  it  douhilcsg 
represents  the  animal  e.oarsct 
and  heavier  limhed  lhan  it 
is  naturally.  As  a  race,  ih'  \ 
are  not  coarse  legged,  hut 
very  flat-sided — narrow  ik*- 
tween  the  hip  bones  and  nai-- 
row  breasted — long  legged, 
active  and  strong.  Tiie  ears 
are  pendant,  and  they  are 
characterized  by  a  Imiiij)  of 
fat  upon  the  shoulders,  of 
varying  size  in  different  ani¬ 
mals.  They  cross  readily 
with  other  cattle,  and  when 
fat,  the  beef  is  said  to  he 
very  good.  The  y>revai!ing 
color  is  mouse,  inclining  to 
dun  and  gray;  they  are  some¬ 
times  called  blue.  Some 
India  catttle  are  very  diminu¬ 
tive — smaller  even  than  those 
of  Breton,  if  we  are  correct¬ 
ly  informed — and  among 
tlsent  are  some  ])olled  breeds. 
These  are  the  varieties  which 
prevail  throughout  So\iihern 
Asia,  Arabia,  and  more  or 
less  in  Eastern  xlfrica.  We 
learn  from  a  gentleman  in¬ 
terested  in  promoting  the  prosperity  of  the  Re¬ 
public  of  Liberia,  that  an  experiment  is  to  be 
made  to  test  the  value  of  these  cattle  on  the 
west  coast  of  Africa,  where  horses  w'ill  not  live. 
If  they  do  well,  the  result  will  be  of  great  value, 
and  go  far  toward  civilizing  the  whole  coast. 
As  to  their  having  any  especial  value  for  the 
United  States,  we  doubt. 
With  good  care  in  breeding 
and  feeding  our  common 
breeds  do  very  %vell,  even 
in  Louisiana  and  in  Florida. 

Oare  of  Sheep  in  inter. 
— Fattening  sheep  should 
not  be  allowed  much  range, 
in  fact  the  more  closely  thej' 
are  confined  the  better,  so 
long  as  their  good  appetites 
give  indications  of  continued 
health.  Sheep  confined  in 
close,  dark  quarters,  4  to  8 
in  a  pen,  having  nothing  to 
do  but  eat  and  sleep,  lay  on 
fat  much  more  rapidly  and 
economically  than  if  allowed 
even  the  range  of  a  small 
yard.  Breeding  ewes  ought 
to  be  in  the  sunshine  more 
or  less  daily,  and  have  a 
walk  of  considerable  extent. 
The  leaves  and  twigs  of  our 
common  evergreen  trees,  es¬ 
pecially  of  the  hemlock,  are 
palatable  to  sheep,  and  they 
may  very  profitably  be  fed 
frequently.  The  resinous 
and  astringent  substances 
contained  in  this  kind  of  food  appear  to  ex¬ 
ercise  an  excellent  effect,  promoting  the  health 
of  the  flock,  besides  affording  a  relishable  vari¬ 
ety  of  diet,  and  tolerable  substitute  for  roota 
All  sheep  ouglit  to  have  occasional  change  of 
diet  if  possible,  especially  the  breeding  ewea 


1 


BUFFAXO  cow  FROM  EAGOON,  INDIA. 


LONG-nOENED  DULLOCK  OF  OUDE,  INDIA. 


lo 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[Jandaky, 


Milk,  Beef,  and  Labor . I. 


Milk. — We  here  name  the  three  purposes  for 
which  neat  cattle  are  bred,  and  first  we  con¬ 
sider  the  production  of  milk.  The  question  is 
often  asked,  “  How  may  a  man  soonest  estab¬ 
lish  a  good  dairy  herd  ?”  By  purchase  of  cows. 
But  then,  how  to  purchase?  Let  him  go  into 
a  good  dairy  region,  and  buy  the  best  young 
native  or  grade  cows  he  can,  wdthout  reference 
to  any  thing  but  youth,  soundness,  and  the  dairy 
qualities  he  desires.  If  he  wish  quantity  of  milk, 
he  must  look  out  for  that,  taking  testimony  and 
guarantees  in  black  and  white,  in  addition  to 
his  own  best  judgment,  or  that  of  an  expert.  If 
quality  (richness  in  cream  for  butter)  be  the 
mark,  he  should  examine  the  milk,  see  it  set, 
and  examine  the  skim  milk  and  the  cream, 
trusting  no  cow  for  rich  milk  that  is  not  a  good 
“  haudTer  ” — that  is,  having  a  soft,  pliable,  unc¬ 
tuous  hide,  that  can  be  grasped  in  the  full  hand 
over  the  ribs.  Soft,  fine  hair  is  not  essential. 
Parting  the  hair  to  see  the  skin,  it  should  have 
a  buttery  yellow  or  almost  orange  color,  and  in 
the  insides  of  the  ears,  and  about  the  eyes,  and 
under  the  tail,  the  same  color  should  appear 
brightly.  The  buyer  should  never  fail  to  in¬ 
quire  and  receive  definite  assurance  in  regard  to 
the  length  of  time  a  cow  will  hold  out  in  milk ; 
and  whether  marked  diminution  of  flow  takes 
place  after  she  has  come  in  heat  once  or  twice, 
or  after  she  has  been  got  with  calf  again.  A 
good  cow  ought  to  give  an  undiminished  flow 
of  milk  (varying  somewhat  according  to  the 
feed  and  time  of  year,)  for  four  months,  and  a 
gradually  diminishing  flow  for  four  months 
more;  then  (supposing  her  to  have  been  got 
with  calf  three  months  after  calving)  from  one 
fourth  to  one  fifth  the  quantity  given  soon  after 
calving,  for  two  months  more.  The  best  cows 
we  have  ever  known  were  hard  to  “  dry  ofi  ” 
Bi.x  weeks  before  calving,  and  in  careless  hands 
we  have  often  known  them  to  be  milked  till  the 
new  milk  “  sprung,” — showing  as  great  excel¬ 
lence  in  the  cows  as  culpability  on  the  part  of 
their  owners.  These  were  cases  of  noble  cows 
and  prize-takers  at  fairs,  sold  to  city  gentlemen. 
No  man  has  a  right  to  own  a  cow  and  remain 
in  ignorance  of  what  is  her  proper  treatment 
under  all  ordinary  circumstances.  Misther 
Michael  O’Flaherthy  is  too  apt  to  profess  a  wis¬ 
dom  which  he  does  not  possess  upon  these  and 
kindred  subjects,  and  do  much  harm  ignorantly. 

Cows  selected  as  we  have  advised  will  cost  a 
good  deal — not  only  money,  but  care  and  pa¬ 
tient  investigation.  They  will,  however,  repay 
the  cost.  The  herd  will  be  a  motley  one,  unless 
pains  shall  have  been  taken  to  select  the  cows 
with  some  reference  to  similarity  of  color  and 
form.  This  is  seldom  worth  while,  though  we 
would  by  no  means  advise  the  purchase  of  de¬ 
formed  animals,  yet  some  of  the  best  cows  for 
milk  we  have  ever  known,  were  of  very  poor 
shape,  bony,  pot-bellied,  hollow  backed,  crook¬ 
ed  legged,  and  coarse  enough ;  but  some  were 
very  handsome.  It  is  not  best  to  attempt  to 
to  find  among  any  thoroughbred  stock  such  a 
herd  of  cows  as  would  be  considered  very  profit¬ 
able  dairy  animals.  They  would  cost  too  much, 
and  would  disappoint  expectations  besides. 

The  herd  once  established  must  be  maintained. 
To  do  this  a  thoroughbred  bull  of  good  quality 
should  be  used.  Shorthorns  as  a  breed  are  beef 
producers,  and  this  is  not  the  object  in  view. 
Some  families  of  Shorthorns,  however,  are 
famous  for  quantity  of  milk.  A  Shorthorn  bull 
of  such  a  family  would  be  excellent  for  a  milk 
dairy,  but,  on  the  wlnle,  probably  not  superior 


to  an  Ayrshire,  to  which  the  preference  for  a 
cheese  dairy  would  probably  be  justly  given. 
For  a  butter  daii7  an  Alderney  bull  would  be 
the  best.  In  the  choice  of  a  ljull  for  a  sire  of 
dally  cows,  his  dam’s  milking  qualities  should 
be  carefully  ascertained,  as  also  those  of  his 
sire’s  dam.  The  progeny  of  a  thoroughbred 
bull  may  be  calculated  upon  with  considerable 
accuracy ;  not  so  with  a  “  native,”  “  scrub,”  or 
grade  bull.  By  the  use  of  such  sires,  though 
they  may  be  very  handsome,  a  rapid  deteriora¬ 
tion  of  the  herd  is  very  sure  to  follow. 

•»  I  I  m  —I  — 

How  to  Break  a  Colt. 


The  word  “  break  ”  seems  to  imply  that  the 
young  horse  has  a  temper  'which  must  be 
broken,  rather  than  a  will  which  should  be 
trained  to  act  in  unison  with  that  of  his  master. 
The  training  of  a  horse  should  alwa3’s  proceed 
upon  the  principle  that  he  is  a  rational  animal — 
that  is,  that  he  has  a  will,  affection,  love  of  ap¬ 
probation,  of  caresses,  and  of  sugar — intelli¬ 
gence,  ability  to  comprehend  cause  and  effect, 
to  understand  language  and  tones  of  voice, 
quickness  to  detect  the  temper  of  the  man  who 
handles  him,  to  know  if  he  is  kind  and  loves 
him,  or  fretful,  malicious  or  passionate,  and  like- 
I  vtohiirt  liim.  Tlie  Iiorse  is  naturallj’’ timid,  and 
his  fears,  if  aroused,  not  onlj’’  make  him  less  man¬ 
ageable,  but  impair  his  judgment,  making  him 
sec  harm  in  almost  every  thing. 

Tlie  whip  should  be  used  as  a  wand  of  au¬ 
thority,  as  giving  the  trainer’s  arm  a  longer 
reach,  and  as  a  means  of  giving  signals — very 
seldom  as  a  rod  of  correction.  When  it  is  used 
to  chastise,  never  threaten,  or  let  the  horse  know 
he  is  to  be  whippeil,  but,  having  him  perfectly 
under  control,  so  tlat  his  springs  and  struggles 
M’ill  do  no  harm,  give  him  one  or  two  severe, 
quick  cuts.  This  must  be  done  without  the 
least  pile — “more  in  sorrow  than  in  anger” — 
an^  the  training  should  be  resumed  exactly  as 
if  notiling  had  happened.  If  a  man  is  never 
spiteful  and  angry  with  the  colt,  the  home  will 
rarely  or  never  show  any  real  viciousness. 

A  colt,  properly  trained,  comes  to  the  age  of 
3^  or4  vears,  halter  broken,  kind,  fond  of  being 
handled  and  petted,  and  glad  to  see  his  master, 
who  should  have  been  in  the  habit  of  giving 
him  an  ear  of  corn,  a  sweet  apple,  a  carrot,  or 
lump  of  sugar,  so  frequently  that  he  will  follow 
him  like  a  dog  whenever  he  goes  to  the  pasture. 
For  the  good  of  the  horse,  even  unpleasant 
familiarities,  such  as  his  nose  over  one's  should¬ 
er,  or  in  one’s  pocket,  ought  not  to  be  sternly 
rebuked.  Three  ounces  of  sugar  will,  in  our 
opinion,  go  further  towai'ds  breaking  a  colt,  than 
a  day’s  w'ork  with  the  whip,  and  even  at  present 
prices,  sugar  is  a  good  deal  the  most  economical. 
The  colt  being  of  such  a  character,  he  maj’  be 
harnessed,  putting  on  each  piece  of  harness 
carefully,  so  as  not  to  cause  alarm,  taking  care 
always,  should  he  show  any  alai-m,  to  let  him 
smell  the  arliele  and  look  at  it  to  his  heart’s  con¬ 
tent.  The  best  place  to  harness  a  colt  is  a 
loose  box,  9  or  10  feet  square.  The  trainer 
should  be  deliberate,  even  tediously  slow  per¬ 
haps,  if  the  colt  is  high  strung.  If  he  is  very 
fractious,  he  may  be  Rarey-fied,  so  that  he  shall 
know  definitely  who  is  master.  No  person 
who  is  the  least  afraid  of  him,  or  who  would 
jump  or  start  when  an  attempt  to  kick,  bite  or 
strike  might  be  made,  should  be  allowed  to 
h.ave  any  intercourse  with  a  horse  in  training. 
First  put  on  a  strong  bridle,  having  measured 
his  head  and  made  it  fit  beloreliand.  It  sliould 
be  of  a  size  to  be  put  on  and  off  easily,  and  have 


a  smooth  bit,  wound  with  cotton  cloth.  It  is 
well  to  accustom  him  to  take  a  piece  of  wood 
into  his  mouth  like  a  bit,  repeatedly  befoi  c  put¬ 
ting  on  the  bridle.  This  done,  let  him  stand 
an  hour  not  fastened,  or  give  him  a  few  turns 
about  a  circle,  holding  him  by  a  20-foot  rein  or 
rope.  Previous  lessons  should  have  accustomed 
him  to  take  various  paces  at  the  will  of  his. 
trainer  about  such  a  ring,  sugar  or  other  dainty 
having  been  the  reward  of  w'ell-doing.  At  the 
second  lesson  in  harness,  let  an  asssistant  take 
the  line  in  centre  of  the  circle,  while  the  trainer 
takes  the  reins  behind  the  colt,  at  first  merely 
holding  them,  then  letting  him  feel  the  weight 
of  the  hand  on  them,  and  finally  guiding  him, 
little  by  little,  until  he  may  be  driven  indepen¬ 
dently  of  the  assistant,  and  beyond  the  circle. 

"When  accustomed  to  the  harness,  standing 
and  being  exercised  in  it  during  one  or  two 
lessons  each  day  for  two  days  or  a  week,  accord¬ 
ing  to  the  disposition  of  the  animal,  he  may  be 
put  into  the  thills,  but  neither  the  traces  nor 
holdbacks  hitched.  Now  let  an  assistant  rock, 
rattle,  and  move  the  w^agon  a  while,  and  then 
aid  the  trainer  to  move  it  foiward,  w'hile  the 
colt  is  made  to  walk  slowdy,  letting  him  have 
his  head  and  look  at  the  w’agon.  Befoie  at¬ 
taching  the  traces,  at  the  second  lesson  in  har¬ 
ness  perhaps,  the  trainer  on  the  nigh  side,  and 
his  assistant  on  the  other,  may  grasp  the  thills 
each  with  one  hand,  just  in  front  of  the  tuga. 
letting  the  horse  step  forw’ard  and  draw  the 
wagon  by  the  thills,  and  letting  him  feel  its 
weight  as  much  or  little  as  desired.  He  may 
be  backed  somewhat  in  the  same  way.  By  his 
actions,  one  may  easily  judge  when  it  will  be 
safe  to  hitch  him  to  the  wagon.  The  vehicle 
selected  should  be  one  not  heavy  but  strong, 
and  which  w’ill  run  with  little  noise.  One  sim¬ 
ple  thing  should  be  taught  at  a  time,  seldom 
two  distinct  ideas  at  one  lesson.  They  should 
be  daily  repeated  at  each  lesson  until  perfectly 
familiar,  and,  after  each  good  pei-formance,  the 
horse  should  be  caressed  and  rew’arded.  'VVhat 
a  horse  learns  in  this  way  he  remembers,  and 
he  will  quickly  exhibit  a  really  remarkable  con¬ 
fidence  in  his  master  and  alacrity  to  serve  him. 
- - - — .ie— - - - 

Economy  of  Keeping  Hats. 


The  habits  of  vermin  are  almost  if  not  quite 
as  important  subjects  of  study  as  those  of  more 
valued  live  stock;  and  some  statements  de¬ 
rived  in  part  from  a  professional  rat-catcher, 
who  has  made  a  life-b^iness  of  studying  the 
vulnerable  points  of  rats,  so  that  he  can  flank 
the  enemy,  storm  and  take  his  strongholds,  and 
economically  maintain  his  prisoners  alive,  may 
be  of  much  practical  value  to  the  readers  of  the 
Agriadiurist.  The  common  brown  rat  is  the 
Mus  domesticus.  It  appeared  in  this  country 
about  the  period  of  our  Revolutionary  war,  and 
has  increased  with  great  rapidity,  having  almost 
if  not  entirely  exterminated  the  black  rat  (Jf. 
rattus,)  which  was  common  before,  and  which 
is  smaller  and  not  so  sharp  a  fighter.  The 
brown  is  the  only  proper  rat  at  the  North,  but  at 
the  South  two  species  are  not  uncommon 
— the  Florida  or  white  bellied  rat,  and  the  cot¬ 
ton  rat;  and  in  Mexico  and  Texas  we  find  the 
roof  rat  living  in  thatch,  etc.,  and  the  Mexican 
or  bush  r  It.  These  all  breed  very  rapidly,  but 
none  more  so  than  the  common  rat.  They  be¬ 
gin  to  breed  at  two  to  three  months  old,  and 
will  have  six  to  eight  litters  a  year,  of  eight 
j’oung  each  on  an  average  under  favorable  cir¬ 
cumstances,  males  and  females  being  atn'iit 
equally  divided.  Were  there  no  natural  bin- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


11 


drances  to  their  multiplication,  a  single  pair 
would  increase  to  no  less  than  6,000  in  a  single 
year,  and  this,  if  they  breed  only  once  in  two 
mouths.  There  is,  however,  one  way  in  which 
they  are  destroyed  by  wholesale,  for  not  only 
will  rats  devour  the  weakly  and  sick  of  their 
companions  as  soon  as  they  are  unable  to  de¬ 
fend  themselves,  but  if  very  hard  pressed,  as  they 
doubtless  often  are,  they  will  eat  their  young. 
The  destruction  by  cats,  dogs  and  men  is  as  a 
general  thing  inconsiderable.  The  veiy  happy 
results  often  attributed  to  the  use  of  dogs  and 
cats,  are  usually  due  to  the  rats  having  multi¬ 
plied  so  as  to  overstock  the  premises  at  the 
time  their  foes  are  introduced,  when  they  scat¬ 
ter,  emigrating,  as  is  their  instinct,  in  families  to 
other  localities.  The  rat  is  eminently  a  social 
animal,  and  short  commons,  or  any  cause  of 
especial  discomfort,  or  strange  noises,  as  the  cry 
of  Guinea  hens,  perhaps  the  discharge  of  fire 
arms,  or  a  wide-awake  terrier  will  cause  a  stam¬ 
pede.  It  is  this  trait  which  makes  the  effect  of 
the  phosphorus  paste  so  efficient.  Compara¬ 
tively  few  rats  are  poisoned,  but  their  actions 
alarm  the  others,  and  when  the  poisoned  ones 
run  away  it  brings  on  a  general  flight,  so  that 
often  not  a  single  rat  is  left.  The  least  amount 
of  food  which  will  sustain  rats  may  be  very  ac¬ 
curately  estimated,  but  not  so  all  they  will  eat 
if  they  can.  In  this  city  great  numbers  of  rats 
are  kept  for  the  purpose  of  baiting  dogs  in 
“  pits,”  similar  to  those  used  for  cock  and  dog 
fighting.  These  are  fed  only  just  enough  to 
keep  them  from  killing  and  eating  one  another, 
and  it  is  found  that  100  rats  will  live  on  one 
bushel  of  sound  corn  a  week,  if  it  be  fed  with 
great  care  at  two  feedings  a  day.  A  bushel  and 
a  half  of  corn,  fed  once  a  day,  will  bring  them 
through,  and  wheat  or  rye  will  go  further  than 
corn.  When  rats  have  their  “full  swing”  at 
corn  in  the  bin  or  grain  in  the  mow,  then  the 
quantity  they  will  eat  is  limited  by  their  capac¬ 
ity;  yet  they  will  carry  away  a  great  deal,  be¬ 
sides  damaging  and  gnawing  much  more.  Sup¬ 
pose  there  are  1,000  rats  on  a  farm — and  this 
is  no  extravagant  supposition.  During  the  time 
when  they  c.an  not  get  much  in  the  field,  they 
will  consume  10  bushels  of  corn,  or  its  equiva¬ 
lent,  per  week.  Calling  this  period  4  months, 
the  amount  consumed  is  170  bushels,  which, 
even  at  75c.  per  bushel,  comes  to  $1755.  This 
loss  is  not  apparent ;  for  it  is  not  all  corn,  but 
it  is  hay  seed,  buckwheat,  oats,  pig  feed,  eggs, 
chickens,  etc.,  and  thus  divided  around  it  is 
overlooked.  The  number  of  rats  in  any  single 
locality  is  almost  always  under-estimated.  They 
live  in  families,  and  send  out  scouts  and  spies, 
which  are  the  only  rats  seen,  unless  great  pains 
be  taken,  and  a  person  remain  quietly  upon 
the  watch  from  early  in  the  evening,  so  that 
he  is  neither  seen,  nor  heard.  Then  they  are 
often  seen  in  scores,  and  often  fierce  battles  are 
witnessed.  The  rat  does  not  see  very  well  by 
day,  being  a  nocturnal  animal,  but  his  hearing 
and  sense  of  smell  are  very  acute.  A  rat  will 
never  jump  higher  than  about  30  inches,  but 
will  climb  rough  walls,  posts,  etc.,  easily. 


Potatoes  under  a  Straw  Mulch. 


Mr.  H.  Holbrook,  of  St.  Clair  Co.,  Ill.,  has 
practised  raising  potatoes  under  a  covering  of 
straw  for  the  past  six  years,  and  thinks  that  he 
gets  “  from  two  to  four  fold  ”  more  than  is  ob¬ 
tained  from  adjoining  land  on  which  potatoes 
are  grown  in  the  old  way.  The  ground  is  plow¬ 
ed  in  the  usual  manner  and  the  potatoes  are 
olantcd  in  shallow  drills  and  covered  with  an 


inch  of  earth.  The  surface  is  then  covered  with 
straw  to  the  depth  of  a  foot.  The  potato  stem 
readily  penetrates  the  straw  covering,  but  the 
weeds  are  efiTectually  kept  down  and  the  crop  is 
raised  without  hoeing  and  plowing.  Mr.  H. 
has  his  doubts  if  this  plan  will  succeed  in  more 
northern  localities,  but  thinks  it  better  adapted 
to  those  in  which  the  potato  does  not  flourish 
well  in  the  ordinary  method  of  cultivation. 
This  is  not  according  to  our  experience  in  a  sin¬ 
gle  experiment,  as  we  have  been  successful  in 
growing  them  under  straw  in  New  England, 
with  the  result  of  a  crop  fair  in  quantity  and 
excellent  in  quality,  but  with  nothing  like  the 
increase  in  yield  stated  by  our  correspondent. 


How  Much  Lumber  from  a  Log? 

J.  E.  Hardisty,  Harford  Co.,  Md.,  contributes 
to  the  American  Agriculturist  the  following  table 
for  ascertaining  the  amount  of  lumber  which 
can  be  made  by  a  careful  sawyer  from  logs  of 
different  dimensions ; 


Diameter. 

Snuare.  No.  ft. 

Diameter. 

Square. 

No.  ft. 

10  inches. 

7  inches. 

4 

24  inches. 

17  inche.s 

24 

11 

5 

25 

17% 

26 

12 

8^ 

6 

26 

18%  - 

28 

13 

7 

27 

19 

.30 

14 

10 

8 

28 

19% 

32 

1.5 

9 

29 

20% 

35 

16 

nyi 

10% 

30 

21% 

:i7% 

17 

12 

12 

31 

22 

40 

l.« 

12% 

13% 

32 

22% 

42% 

10 

13 ‘4 

15 

33 

23% 

45 

20 

14% 

16% 

34 

24 

48 

21 

15 

18% 

35 

24% 

51 

22 

1-5% 

20 

36 

25% 

53% 

23 

16% 

22 

The  first  column  is  for  diameters  of  logs,  from 
10  inches  to  3  feet.  The  2d  column  shows  the 
number  of  inches  which  each  log  will  square. 
The  3d  column  gives  the  number  of  feet,  board 
measure,  (1  ft.  square,  and  1  inch  thick)  which 
each  foot  in  the  length  of  the  log  will  make. 
Thus:  a  log  10  inches  in  diameter  will  square 
7  Inches,  and  if  1  foot  long,  it  will  make  4  feet ; 
if  10  feet  long,  will  make  40  feet  of  boards. 
Again,  by  the  table,  a  log  36  inches  in  diameter, 
will  square  25f  inches ;  if  1  foot  long,  will  out 
53a  feet  board  measure ;  if  10  feet  long  will  con¬ 
tain  535  ft. — allowing  the  usual  thickness  of  saw. 

If  the  logs  are  to  be  sawed  into  lumber  with 
squared  edges,  of  the  same  width  and  thickness 
at  each  end,  and  no  wane-edged  boards  allowed, 
then  the  logs  will  make  l-9th  part  less  than  the 
amount  named  in  the  table.  If  for  lumber  |  inch 
thick,  add  about  k  part  more.  If  the  log  is 
crooked,  reckon  the  diameter  less  to  allow  for 
straightening.  For  the  calculations  in  the  table, 
measure  the  small  end  clear  of  the  bark,  but  if 
the  log  is  to  be  sawed  tapering  or  as  large  as 
each  end  will  make,  then  measure  for  the  diam¬ 
eter  about  the  distance  from  the  small  end. 


A  Wheelbarrow  for  the  Boys. 


L.  L.  Fairchild,  Dodge  Co.,  Wis.,  writes  to 
the  American  Agriculturist ;  “  A  light  wheelbar¬ 
row  for  the  boys  will  not  only  please  them,  but 
will  be  found  a  very  convenient  and  a  paying 
institution  to  have  about  the  premises.  Lots  of 
little  chores  and  errands  can  easily  be  done  by 
a  boy  with  his  little  wheelbarrow,  which  would 
take  up  the  more  valuable  time  of  older  per¬ 
sons  if  he  did  not  have  this  vehicle  to  assist  him. 
I  made  my  boy  one  in  half  a  day’s  time  that  has 
paid  for  itself  many  times  over  in  gathering 
wood  and  chips  for  the  summer  fire  and  keep¬ 
ing  the  yards  clear  of  rubbish.  It  is  simply  a 
basswood  wheel  made  of  one  and-a-fourth-inch 
plank,  with  a  two-inch  maple  axle-tree  mortised 
through  the  plank  and  cut  down  at  each  end 
for  gudgeons  to  run  in  two  side  pieces  for  han¬ 
dles.  The  wheel  is  secured  in  the  center  of  the 


axletree  by  a  half-inch  pin  driven  through  a 
hole  bored  each  side  snug  up  to  the  wheel  and 
left  to  project  from  the  axle  a  couple  of  inches. 
A  dash  board  and  boards  for  a  bottom  secui-ed 
by  nails,  keep  the  handles  in  place  and  compleie 
the  barrow.  It  has  been  in  almost  constant  use 
for  two  years,  and  is  good  for  two  years  more.” 


How  to  Kepair  a  Eoad. 


The  first  requisite  is  to  have  a  dry  bed  for  the 
road.  Without  this,  the  superstructure  of  what¬ 
ever  material  it  may  be  composed,  will  soon 
become  rough  and  uneven.  Some  soils  are  nat¬ 
urally  drained  and  the  gravelly  subsoil  thrown 
upon  the  surface  and  rounded  a  little,  makes  as 
good  a  path  as  need  be.  Others  need  draining, 
and  no  amount  of  gravel  upon  the  surface  will 
make  a  good  bed  without  it.  We  frequently 
find  bad  places  upon  a  hill-side  where  the  water 
is  always  bursting  out  in  rainy  seasons.  A  three 
inch  tile  drain  four  feet  deep  just  above  these 
wet  places  would  make  them  dry  up  permanent¬ 
ly,  and  save  a  large  expenditure  every  year. 
If  tiles  are  not  available,  stones  or  wood  should 
be  used.  There  is  no  help  for  these  mud  holes 
but  in  draining  the  bed.  A  single  dollar  spent 
at  the  bottom  is  worth  ten  at  the  top  in  gravel. 
Roads  are  so  constantly  in  use  and  the  prosi)er- 
ity  of  the  fiirmer  so  much  depends  upon  them, 
that  no  ])ains  should  be  spared  to  have  them  of 
easy  grade  and  as  smooth  as  possible.  A” 
classes  in  the  community  are  benefited  b3'good 
roads,  but  the  farmer  most.  All  his  surplus 
crops  must  go  over  the  road  to  market,  and  it 
makes  a  great  difference  with  him  in  the  course 
of  the  j’^ear,  whether  he  be  able  to  take  a  ton  and 
a  half  at  a  load,  or  only  half  that  quantitJ^ 
Good  roads  add  to  the  value  of  every  acre  he 
owns  and  of  every  thing  that  he  produces,  to 
say  nothing  of  their  influence  upon  his  manhood. 
They  are  a  mark  of  the  progress  of  civilization, 
and  a  pretty  good  index  of  the  moral  culture  of 
a  people.  A  team  stuck  in  the  mud,  the  snap¬ 
ping  of  whiffietrees  and  braces,  the  cursing  and 
bad  temper  of  the  driver  show  that  “  there  is 
something  rotten  in  Denmark.”  The  mud 
holes  in  the  highway  undo  the  work  of  the 
schoolhouse  and  the  church.  There  is  an  inti¬ 
mate  connexion  between  the  highways  and  the 
moral  ways  of  a  people.  In  mending  either  it  is 
a  very  safe  maxim  to  “  begin  at  the  bottom." 


Hovel  and  Simple  Gun  Cleaner. 

Mr.  I.  W.  'Parmenter,  of  New  York  City,  re¬ 
cently  brought  to  the  office  of  the  American 
Agriculturist  a  simple  and  efficient  gun  cleaner, 
that  he  had  been  using  in  lack  of  tow,  which 
he  could  not  readily  obtain,  and  to  which  it 
proved  superior.  A  bit  of  corn  cob  about  three 
inches  long  w'as  whittled  down  small  enough  to 
enter  the  barrel  readily,  but  not  so  much  as  to  en¬ 
tirely  cut  off  the  rough  projections — these  serve 
admirably  to  scour  the  interior  of  the  barrel. 
The  lower  end  of  the  cob  was  split  up  about 
an  inch,  and  the  two-halves  were  kept  sprung 
apart  to  fill  the  bore,  by  a  small  wedge  across 
the  upper  end  of  the  opening.  The  interstices 
on  the  surface  of  the  cob  may  be  filled  with  ash¬ 
es,  emery  powder,  or  other  scouring  material  to 
remove  rust,  etc.  The  cob  so  prepared  and 
screwed  to  the  wormer  of  the  ramrod  was  used 
as  a  swab,  and  in  a  very  short  time  the  gun  was 
thoroughly  cleansed.  This  is  not  patented. 


Virtues  confessed  by  our  foes,  and  vices  ac¬ 
knowledged  by  our  friends,  are  probably  real 


13 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[JiNtTART, 


lifted  and  the  barrow  rolled  upon  them,  and 
wheeled  easily  about  corners  or  through  doors, 
or  ended  up  as  in  fig.  2,  for  thorough  cleaning 
out,  or  that  it  may  occupy  less  room.  It  will 
run  easily  upon  a  floor,  but  when  it  is  necessary 
to  shove  it  through  a  narrow  passage,  as  in  the 
feedways  between  the  mangers  in  the  barn  just 
described,  it  is  desirable  to  have  rails  laid  to 
guide  the  wheels. 

Simple  strips  of  hard 
wood,  an  inch  high 
and  two  inches  wide, 
one  placed  on  each 
side,  at  such  a  dis¬ 
tance  apart  that  the 
wheels  will  run  out¬ 
side  of  them,  are  all 
that  is  necessary  for 
straight  tracks.  (Such 
a  car  is  technically 
called  a  “  tram,"  and  a 
railway  which  does 
not  requii'e  flanged 
wheels — that  is, where 
the  cars  do  not  run  on 
the  rails — a  tram-way.) 

A  Root  Cutter  may  be  very  conveniently 
made  out  of  this  feed  box,  by  putting  in  a  piece 
of  plank,  as  is  indicated  by  dotted  lines,  at  right 
angles  to  the  sloping  bottom,  and  fastened  in 
that  position  by  strong  pins  or  otherwise.  The 
roots  being  thrown  in,  they  may  be  rapidly  cut 
up  by  shoving  a  sharp  spade  back  and  forth 
upon  the  bottom  against  the  plank  at  the  end. 


A  Western  Way  of  Slaughtering  and 
Cutting  Tip  Hogs  on  the  Farm. 


An  Illinois  Barn. 


The  plan  herewith  presented  was  prepared  by 
Mr.  A.  J.  Aldrich,  of  Worcester  Co.,  Mass.,  for 
his  brother  in  Illinois,  and  as  it  meets  his  re¬ 
quirements  very  well,  we  give  it  for  the  benefit 
of  our  Prairie  readers.  A  large  amount  of  space 
is  devoted  to  horses,  more  than  is  usual  on  other 
farms,  but  the  allotment  of  stable  room  to  differ¬ 
ent  kinds  of  stock  may  of  course  be  made  to  suit 
the  requirements  of  any  particular  farm,  for 
which  a  barn  similar  to  this  may  be  constructed. 

The  main  building  is  40x80  feet,  with  20-feet 
posts,  (this  hight  is  not  objectionable  as  they  use 
horse  pitchforks,)  and  the  whole  of  it  is  devoted 
to  hay,  with  the  exception  of  a  6-feet  way  on  each 
end  to  pass  through  into  the  wings.  The  cattle 
wings  are  30  feet  wide,  and  can  be  made  as 
long  as  is  required  for  the  stock  kept.  In  this 
case,  they  are  each  72  feet  long,  cheaply  built 
with  8-feet  posts,  and  used  only  for  stock,  though 
if  one  chooses,  they  might  be  made  higher  to  get 
room  overhead  for  straw,  corn  fodder,  hay,  etc. 
A  good  grain  room  is  made  on  each  end  of  the 
barn  with  a  roof  of  the  same  pitch  as  the 
.pattle  wings.  A  railway  runs  past  the  grain 
room  doors,  through  each  wing,  to  convey  feed 
easily  to  the  stock.  A  horse-power  is  placed  on 
the  barn  floor,  for  cutting  up  the  hay ;  and  meal 
is  mixed  with  the  hay  before  feeding.  In  Mr. 
A’s  experience  it  pays  well  to  grind  his  grain. 

It  is  obvious  that  the  cattle  stables  may  oe 
mere  close  sheds,  furnished  only  with  feeding 
boxes  and  racks;  or  they  may  be  floored  and 
well  fitted  up.  In  this  case  there  are  cellars 
under  the  whole  barn,  wings  and  all,  those 
under  the  wings  being  used  for  manure,  leaving 
the  one  under  the  main  barn  clear  for  young 
latlle  or  sheep,  or  for  any  other  purpose.  The 


capacitv  of  the  barn  for  hay  is  calculated  to  be 
125  to  150  tons.  The  barn-floor  is  12  feet  wide. 

A  little  different  arrangement  would  make 
room  for  loose  boxes  for  the  horses,  rooms  for 
tools,  carts  and  waggons,  etc.  Western  farm¬ 
ers  do  not  make  much  use  of  nice  carriages  and 
harnesses,  and  space  for  these  things  is  not  pro¬ 
vided.  They  are  however  beginning  to  wake 
up  to  the  importance  of  housing  their  stock  in 
cold  weather,  and  of  saving  their  manure,  to 
keep  their  land  up  in  good  condition,  and  there 
may  be  ideas  in  this  plan  that  will  suit  some 
persons,  should  no  one  adopt  it  as  a  whole. 


The  implement  which  we  figure  is  one  for 
which  almost  every  farmer  may  have  use.  It  is 
simply  a  feed  box,  made  with  a  sloping  bottom, 
and  placed  upon  a  four-wheeled  truck.  When 
one  end  is  turned  down,  as  indicated  by  dotted 
lines  on  the  left  of  the  figure,  the  contents  m.ay 
very  easily  be  taken  out  with  a  shovel.  The 
truck  is  framed  of  oak  stuff,  light  and  strong. 
The  wheels  are  cast  iron,  1  inch  wide,  and 
about  6  inches  in  diameter,  set  fast  or  loose  on 
the  axles,  as  ma}'  be  considered  best.  The  front 
pair  are  so  located  that  the  rear  end  may  be 


Last  month  we  described  the  method  of 
slaughtering  and  cutting  up  hogs  in  vogue  iu 
this  part  of  the  country.  Mr.  G.  W.  Smith, 
writing  from  Kalamazoo  Co.,  Mich.,  describes 
the  following  practice,  which  prevails  in  West¬ 
ern  Missouri  and  Kansas,  and  probably  else¬ 
where  at  the  West:  “They  first  build  a  large 
fire  out-doors,  and  pile  on  a  lot  of  stones  to  heat. 
They  have  a  platform  of  convenient  height,  and 
at  one  end  place  a  trough  six  or  eight  feet 
long,  and  large  enough  to  scald  in,  filling  it 
partly  full  of  water.  The  top  of  the  trough 
should  come  a  few  inches  above  the  platform. 
When  the  stones  are  hot,  they  put  them  into 
the  trough  wiln  a  shovel,  and  when  the  water 
is  hot  enough,  they  shovel  them  out,  and  put 
them  on  the  fire  again.  When  the  water  gets 
too  cool,  all  that  is  needed  is  to  put  in  a  few 
hot  stones.  I  have  tried  both  the  Missouri 
style  and  the  old  way  of  heating  the  water  in  a 
kettle,  and  like  the  former  much  better. 

As  to  the  cutting  up,  the  Western  plan  is  bet¬ 
ter  yet  :  Lay  the  hog  on  his  back,  and  cut  off  the 
head ;  then  turn  him  down  on  the  right  side, 
place  the  left  hand  on  the  hog,  take  a  sharp 
knife  in  the  right  hand,  and  split  him  from  the 
lack  of  the  neck,  strait  as  a  line  to  the  root  of 
the  tail. ,  Then  turn  him  on  his  back,  and  take 
an  axe  or  cleaver,  and  cut  each  side  of  the  back¬ 
bone  as  close  as  convenient,  take  out  the  back¬ 
bone  by  itself,  and  your  hog  is  evenly  cut  in  two. 
You  will  now  find  it  easy  to  take  out  the  ribs, 
and  can  do  it  more  nicely  than  if  the  backbone 
had  been  split  open.  Tim  advantage  is  here : 
a  hog’s  backbone  has  many  short,  flat  bones 
running  up  from  the  central  bone,  and  if  you 
split  through  them  you  have  the  meat  full  of 
fine  bones,  split  bones,  slivers  of  bones,  etc.” 

Our  correspondent  might  have  added  that  this 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURIST. 


13 


method  of  cutting  up  leaves  the  sides  in  the  best 
shape  to  be  cured  as  bacon — a  practice  com¬ 
mon  at  the  West,  seldom  used  at  the  East,  and 
almost  unknown  over  most  of  New-England. 


Maple  Sugar. 


There  is  more  than  usual  profit  to  be  expected 
from  sugar  making  this  year.  The  Sorghum 
growers  have  realized  very  handsomely  for  the 
crop  so  far  as  we  have  learned,  except  in  a  few 
isolated  cases  of  failure  from  late  crops  or  early 
frost,  and  the  letters  of  inquiry  we  receive  indi¬ 
cate  an  interest  on  the  part  of  the  owners  of 
sugar  trees,  which  will  probably  result  in  secur¬ 
ing  a  very  large  crop  of  maple  sugar.  The  sap 
of  trees  grown  upon  different  soils  and  expo¬ 
sures,  is  found  to  vary  considerably  in  the  quan¬ 
tity  of  sugar  it  contains,  and  in  earthy  impurities 
also.  These  impurities  are  not  of  much  impor¬ 
tance.  They  are  salts  of  lime  and  magnesia  for 
the  most  part.  Besides,  the  sap  contains  some 
albuminous  substance,  part  of  which  is  coagu¬ 
lated  by  the  boiling,  and  may  be  skimmed  off 
from  the  boiling  syrup  after  it  becomes  consider¬ 
ably  concentrated,  and  another  portion  w’ith 
some  of  the  earthy  salts  may  be  removed  by 
straining  through  flannel  before  “  sugaring  off.” 
When  the  sap  yields  much  scum,  and  is  seen  to 
be  impure,  it  is  usually  clarified  by  the  addition 
of  a  few  eggs  beaten  together  with  milk,  and 
stirred  into  it,  all  of  which  is  subsequently  re¬ 
moved  by  skimming.  Tin  or  wooden  sap- 
troughs,  buckets  and  spouts,  or  “  spiles”  ought 
to  be  prepared  during  the  present  month.  A 
good  evaporator  is  made  by  riveting  together 
two  or  three  sheets  of  Russia  sheet  iron,  turn¬ 
ing  the  edges  up  so  as  to  make  a  large  flat  pan. 
This  must  be  provided  with  a  large  faucet,  and 
set  nearly  level,  supported  by  bars  of  iron,  to 
prevent  sagging  and  warping.  Some  of  the  eva¬ 
porators  invented  for  making  Sorghum  syrup 
have  been  used,  as  we  learn,  with  very  good 
results.  They  certainly  are  well  adapted  to  the 
purpose.  We  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  some 
of  the  large  maple  sugar  makers,  among  the 
readers  of  the  Agriculturist,  in  regard  to  any 
improvements  in  the  way  of  making  sugar,  re¬ 
cently  introduced,  with  a  p, articular  description 
of  their  app.aratus  of  all  kinds,  for  it  is  some 
years  since  we  have  been  in  the  “  sugar  bush” 
at  sugaring  time.  Letters  received  the  first  week 
in  January,  may  be  in  time  for  February  No. 


Relations  between  Editors  and  Dealers. 


An  editor  of  an  agricultural  journal  has  two 
important  duties  :  he  has  to  urge  his  readers  to 
adopt  such  new  principles,  to  try  such  new  im¬ 
plements,  and  to  test  such  new  fruits,  seeds,  etc., 
as  seem  in  his  judgment  to  be  worthy  of  a  trial. 
On  the  other  hand,  if  faithful  to  the  require¬ 
ments  of  his  position,  he  is  obliged  to  warn  his 
readers  against  the  many  schemes  of  specula¬ 
tors  upon  their  credulity,  and  if  a  thing  is  re¬ 
commended  to  the  agricultural  community  as 
worthy  of  their  adoption  or  purchase,  to  exam¬ 
ine  it,  and  give  his  opinion.  This  latter  course, 
while  it  saves  his  readers  many  thousands  of 
dollars,  makes  the  editor  many  hundreds  of 
enemies,  and  long  lists  of  makers  of  super-hum¬ 
bug  manures  and  unpractical  implements,  of 
nurserymen  who  look  at  their  stock  through 
glorification  spectacles,  and  seedsmen  who  sell 
seeds  or  plants  at  prices  out  of  all  proportion  to 
their  value — in  short,  all  that  class  of  persons 
who  are  included  in  the  very  comprehensive 


term  of  “  humbugs,” 
are  no  friends  to  the 
editor.  The  Agricul¬ 
turist,  having  done  its 
share  in  this  unpleas¬ 
ant  work,  has  made 
hosts  of  friends  on 
one  side,  and  a  cor¬ 
responding  number  of 
enemies  on  the  other, 
as  most  naturally  fol¬ 
lows  from  the  course 
it  has  pursued.  There 
are  two  ways  in 
which  those  having 
ends  to  serve,  attempt 
to  manage  an  editor : 
the  one  is  to  buy  him 
up,  and  the  other  is 
to  frighten  him  down. 

We  do  not  recollect 
that  the  bindng  up 
process  has  been  very 
recentl3'  tried  on  us, 
though  it  has  been 
attempted  with  some 
of  our  neighbors;  but 
the  other  stylo  has 
been  manifested  in 
various  foians,  from 
blowing  up  letters  to 
threats  of  personal  vi¬ 
olence,  and  prosecu¬ 
tion.  In  the  absence  of  positive  law  defining  an 
editor’s  duties  and  responsibilities,  he  is  obliged 
to  be  “  a  law  unto  himself,”  and  in  case  an  ag¬ 
grieved  person  brings  him  before  the  courts,  he 
has  to  rely  upon  the  intelligence  and  discrimina¬ 
tion  of  a  jury  to  sustain  him  in  what  he  conceives 
his  duties  to  the  public.  It  will  be  very  dlflicult 
to  convince  them  that  because  a  nurseryman 
exhibits  a  yellow  apple,  and  calls  it  a  red  one, 
that  the  editor  is  obliged  to  say  that  it  is  red,  or  if 
he  is  presented  with  an  elongated  and  poorly 
filled  bunch  of  grapes  (which  thereby  become 
his  own  property),  that  he  is  precluded  from 
saying  that  the  bunch  is  badl}'  grown.  We  have 
gone  upon  the  principle  that  a  book,  no  matter 
by  whom  written,  or  a  fruit  without  reference 
to  whose  grounds  the  seed  grew  upon,  when 
offered  for  sale,  becomes  public  property,  and 
as  such  is  subject  to  criticism.  If  one  owns 
a  tree  or  vine  which  the  originator  states 
perfects  its  fruit  very  earlj’-,  and  he  finds  that 
it  does  not  ripen  until  late,  it  is  his  duty  to 
say  so,  no  matter  if  the  nurseryman  should  lose 
the  sale  of  the  plants,  and  we  think  it  would 
be  difficult  to  find  any  law  or  court  that  would 
prevent  him  giving  the  results  of  his  experience 
and  observation,  or  knowledge  on  the  subject. 


Horticulture  aud  Matrimony. 

According  to  the  New  York  Observer,  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Aul,  of  Ohio,  believes  in  having 
good  things  go  together.  The  reverend  gentle¬ 
man  is  a  cultivator  of  grapes,  and  alw’aj^s  has  a 
plentiful  stock  of  young  vines  on  hand :  “  He 

said  that  whenever  any  of  his  young  friends 
got  married  and  went  to  housekeeping,  he 
loved  to  give  them  a  grape  vine  to  set  out  at  the 
heginning  of  their  domestic  life.  The  idea  was 
to  me  very  pleasant.  His  pleasure  was  not 
merely  in  raising  fine  grapes,  of  which  he  had 
great  quantities,  but  in  giving  the  blessing  of  a 
vine  to  cover  the  arbor  or  the  door  of  his  neigh¬ 
bors.”  A  pleasant  way  this  parson  has,  and  his 
gifts  more  sensible  than  many  wedding  presents. 


The  Snowy  Owl,  or  Harfang. 


This  large  and  very  showy  bird  is  found 
throughout  northern  portions  of  both  hemi¬ 
spheres.  It  is  a  day'  bird,  but  most  active  at  morn  ■ 
ing  and  evening,  feeding  upon  all  sorts  of 
small  animals  and  birds,  and  taking  unwary 
grouse,  and  sometimes  ducks  aud  chickens, 
much  as  a  hawk  does.  Field  mice,  rabbits,  and 
small  birds  are  their  principal  food,  and  when 
they  are  bold  enough  to  come  in  the  vicinity  of 
barns  .and  grain  stacks,  they  are  among  the 
most  persistent  enemies  of  rats.  The  perfectly 
noiseless  flight  of  the  owl  enables  him  to  drop 
without  warning  upon  his  prey,  if  he  has  not 
been  seen.  In  the  winter,  among  the  snows, 
this  bird  is  particularly  inconspicuous,  on  ac¬ 
count  of  his  color,  which  is  white,  more  or  less 
sprinkled,  particularly  on  the  back  and  breast, 
with  half-moon  shaped,  dark-brown  or  ash-col¬ 
ored  spots.  These  owls  weigh  four  or  five 
pounds,  but  they'  are  so  profusely  covered  with 
feathers  that  they  appear  to  be  much  larger. 


Plants  out  of  Place. 


The  old  definition,  that  a  weed  is  “  a  plant 
out  of  place,”  is  illustrated  in  the  grounds  of  an 
intelligent  correspondent  in  Connecticut,  who 
finds  some  plants  prized  in  the  flower  garden 
to  be  quite  unwelcome  in  his  fields.  There 
are  some  plants  which,  like  fire,  are  excel¬ 
lent  servants,  but  most  deplorable  w'hen  they' 
acquire  the  mastery  over  us.  It  is  notorious 
that  most  of  our  worst  weeds  are  of  foreign 
origin,  which  very  often  make  themselves  more 
at  home  than  the  native  sorts.  We  extract  the 
following  from  a  communication  by  the  gentle¬ 
man  above  alluded  to. 

“  Fumitory  {Fumaria  officinalis). — A  delicate 
garden  flower,  sown  in  the  flower  garden  about 
twenty  years  since.  Though  soon  banished  from 
good  society  for  its  arrogant  claims,  it  holds  on 
so  tenaciously  among  currant  bushes  and  fence 
corners  that  we  have  relinquished  the  hope  of 


14 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Jakttabt, 


extirpating  it  and  accept  it  as  an  evil  in  perpe¬ 
tuity.  Quack  grass,  which  came  in  the  roots  of 
some  shrubs  from  tiie  nursery,  holds  the  same 
ground.  Blumenhachia  and  a  species  of  Catch- 
fly  were  sown  as  flowers  and  destroyed  as  soon 
as  their  worthlessness  was  known,  j-et  they 
give  a  few  specimens  every  year,  as  if  just  to 
keep  up  the  breed  until  some  more  favorable 
opportunity  occurs  to  possess  the  land.  A  spe¬ 
cies  of  Lamtum  (Dead  Nettle),  came  in  seeds 
from  the  Patent  Office.  Tlie  first  year  it  was 
viewed  with  curiosity  as  a  new  plant,  now  we 
have  ten  feet  square  to  watch  and  hoe  often,  as 
it  comes  up  by  hundreds.  A  species  of  liud- 
beckia  or  Cone-flower  {li.  hirta\  appeared  some 
six  years  ago  in  a  field  sown  to  timothy.  It  is 
a  tall  showy  yellow  flower  with  a  purple  cen¬ 
ter.  We  now  find  it  quite  plenty,  having  come 
in  grass  seed  from  Illinois  where  it  is  common. 
Every  one  with  a  quick  eye  will  detect  such  stran¬ 
gers  lurking  about  his  premises  getting  ready  a 
crop  of  seeds  for  a  larger  claim.  Before  the 
seeds  shell  out,  put  them  in  the  stove  or  make  a 
bonfire  of  them,  and  in  destroying  one  plant 

you  prevent  the  growth  of  thousands.” - A 

norticultural  friend  of  ours  was  some  years  ago 
on  business  at  the  Patent  Office,  and  saw  a  box 
labelled  EcMum  vulgare.  Upon  inquiry  he  learn¬ 
ed  that  the  box  contained  seeds,  which  had  been 
imported  from  Russia,  at  a  cost  of  $100,  and 
were  to  be  distributed  over  the  country  as  a 
valuable  plant  for  bee  pasture.  Our  friend  took 
down  a  volume  of  “  Weeds  and  Useful  Plants,” 
and  showed  the  officials  the  description  begin¬ 
ning  “  This  showy  but  vile  weed,”  and  thus 
saved  a  still  greater  dissemination  of  what  is 
already  a  serious  pest  in  some  parts  of  the  coun¬ 
try,  and  at  the  same  time  illustrated  the  import¬ 
ance  of  scientific  knowledge  on  the  part  of  those 
who  have  it  in  their  power  to  do  so  much  good 
or  evil  to  the  agricultural  community. 

■  -«  I  —  a  I  *  ...  - 

A  Veterinary  College  in  New  York. 


The  necessity  of  having  good  veterinary  prac¬ 
titioners  in  this  country  is  every  day  increasing. 
The  immense  draft  of  horses  for  the  army 
has  made  horseflesh  very  valuable  property 
both  in  town  and  country.  Their  term  of  ser¬ 
vice  is  very  short,  as  they  contract  disease  from 
overwork,  and  have  improper  medical  and  sur¬ 
gical  treatment  when  they  are  sick  and  wounded. 
The  war  also  increases  the  value  of  cattle  for 
work,  to  supply  the  labor  of  horses  sold  to  the 
Government,  as  well  as  the  demand  for  beef. 
Never  before  has  there  been  so  general  an  in¬ 
terest  in  sheep  breeding,  and  the  value  of  this 
stock  has  risen  very  much  of  late.  The  diseases 
of  animals  are  increasing  in  number,  in  fact, 
in  proportion  to  the  care  and  “good  treatment” 
that  animals  receive,  beyond  a  certain  point, 
domestic  animals  are  prone  to  contract  disease. 
The  truth  is,  the  most  profitable  systems  of  farm¬ 
ing  require  such  early  maturity  in  animals  used 
for  food,  and  other  conditions  tending  to  secure 
the  most  economical  consumption  of  their  food, 
and  rapid  fattening,  that  they  are  peculiarly  lia¬ 
ble  to  the  attacks  of  disease.  This  makes  it 
very  desirable  that  breeders  and  feeders  in  all 
parts  of  the  country  should  be  able  to  secure  med¬ 
ical  advice,  if  they  would  not  suffer  severe  loss¬ 
es  from  the  sickness  and  death  of  the  stock. 

We  are  gratified  to  know  that  the  Institution 
chartered  as  the  “  New  York  College  of  Veteri¬ 
nary  Surgeons,”  is  in  the  hands  of  earnest,  high- 
minded  scientific  gentlemen  and  physicians, 
some  of  whom  are  devoting  themselves  with 
aeal  to  its  interests.  A  portion  of  the  endow¬ 


ment  required  has  been  already  secured,  and 
the  gentlemen  expect  soon  to  announce  their 
readiness  to  receive  students  and  patients.  Lack 
of  suitable  endowment  is  all  that  prevents  the 
immediate  institution  of  a  course  of  instruction. 
Tlie  faculties  of  the  medical  colleges  of  this  city 
have,  in  the  spirit  of  true  liberality,  offered  to 
establish  the  same  reciprocity  between  their 
own  and  the  Veterinary  College  as  exists  be¬ 
tween  the  medical  colleges  of  the  country. 

We  shall  be  happy  to  give  individuals  any 
further  infoi'ination,  or  facilitate  the  communi¬ 
cation  of  any  persons  with  the  Committee  on 
Subscriptions  to  the  endowment  fund. 

..  ■■  I  ^  .  ■  — 

Saws  and  How  to  File  Them. 


Every  farmer  and  almost  every  man  has  occa¬ 
sion  to  use  a  saw,  and  ought  to  know  how  to 
keep  one  in  good  order,  and  this  can  not  be 
done  without  some  notion  of  the  principles  in¬ 
volved.  Should  we  attempt  to  cut  a  board  in 
two  by  repeatedly  drawing  a  knife-point  across 
it  as  at  a  or  6,  fig.  1,  we  should  be  simply 
using  a  saw  with  one  tooth.  If  the  blade  be  held 
in  the  position  indicated  at  a,  it  may  be  moved 
with  much  less  power,  and  will  cut  deeper  and 
make  a  cleaner  cut  than  if  held  as  at  b.  This 
is  true,  and  it  leads  us  to  the  conclusion  that 
cross-cut  saws,  with  teeth  shaped  as  at  c,  do 
their  work  easier  and  better  than  those  shaped 
as  at  d.  Rip-saws  operate  in  a  different  way, 
which  we  may  illustrate  on  another  occasion. 
Fig.  2  represents  a  good  cross-cut  saw  for  soft 
wood,  the  teeth  being  quite  sharply  beveled  al¬ 
ternately  on  different  sides ;  6  shows  the  broad¬ 
side  view  of  a  single  tooth,  and  c  the  same 
tooth  seen  edgewise,  or  a  perpendicular  section 
of  the  same;  while  at  a  is  represented  the 


Fig.  1.— ACTION  OF  SAW  TEETH. 

proper  position  of  the  file  in  filing  such  a  saw. 
The  filing  should  be  so  done  as  to  leave  the 
edges  of  the  teeth  clean,  sharp  and  good  cutting 
surfaces.  The  next  tooth  will,  of  course,  have 
the  bevels  on  the  other  side,  and  so  on  alter¬ 
nately.  This  brings  the  cutting  points  of  the 


c 


Fig.  2.— CROSS-CUT  SAW  FOR  SOFT  WOOD. 


teeth  on  the  outside  of  the  cut,  on  each  side. 
The  best  saws  are  now  made  thinner  at  the 
back,  so  that  the  cutting  edge  is  always  the 
widest,  and  such  saws  clean  well  and  do  not 
bind  at  all,  without  having  the  teeth  “  set,”  pro¬ 


vided  of  course,  that  the  teeth  are  properly 
filed.  An  irregularly  filed  saw,  or  a  dull  one, 
leaves  the  cut  so  ragged  and  fibry  that  it  will 
bind  frequently,  no  matter  how  much  it  is  set. 
Setting  is  bending  the  teeth  slightly  to  one  side 
and  the  other,  alternately,  so  that  the  cut  shall 
be  made  so  wide  that  the  saw  will  slide  easily 
through  it.  It  is  best  done  by  means  of  a  saw-set. 


Figure  3  represents  a  cross-cut  saw  for  hard 


Fig.  3. — CROSS-CUT  SAW  FOR  HARD  WOOD. 


wood  (a),  the  side  view  (6),  and  the  edge  view 
(c)  of  one  of  the  teeth.  It  will  be  noticed  that 
the  teeth  are  smaller,  having  the  bevel  on  one 
edge  only,  and  the  point  of  the  tooth  less  acute, 
as  more  strength  and  ability  to  stand  harder  wear 
are  needed.  Between  saws  for  soft  wood  and 


Fig.  4.— BADLY  FILED  SAW. 


and  those  for  very  hard,  one  or  two  interme¬ 
diate  grades  are  used.  Filing  should  be  done 
with  a  strong  hand,  guided  by  an  accurate  eye. 
A  poor,  unsteady  filer  will  soon  get  a  saw  into 
the  condition  shown  in  fig.  4.  The  illustrations 
we  have  employed  above  are  from  a  capital  lit¬ 
tle  book,  by  W.  H.  Holley,  “  The  Art  of  Saw 
Filing,”  published  by  Wiley,  price  60  cents, 
and  placed  on  our  list 


What  Fruit  Trees  Shall  I  Plant? 


No  question  is  more  frequently  asked  ol 
the  Editors  of  the  American  Agriculturist.,  than 
the  above,  and  none  more  difficult  to  answer. 
There  are  certain  varieties  which  can  be  recom¬ 
mended  for  a  wide  range,  and  others  which  are 
very  local  in  their  character.  The  transactions 
of  any  State  Society  will  show  that  the  greatest 
diversity  of  opinion  exists  with  regard  to  the  * 
fruits  adapted  to  a  single  State.  The  Illinois 
Horticultural  Society  have  been  obliged  to  dis¬ 
trict  their  State  into  three  different  fruit  regions, 
as  will  be  seen  by  referring  to  page  50  in  the 
Agriculturist  for  February  last.  It  is  evident 
that  it  is  impossible  for  any  one  man,  or  any  as¬ 
sociation  of  men,  to  indicate  the  varieties  of 
fruit  suited  to  each  particular  locality.  Now 
what  is  to  be  done  ?  If  one  has  the  means  he 
can  make  a  series  of  experiments.  If  he  is 
wise  he  will  make  use  of  the  experiments  of 
others.  If  one  wishes  to  set  out  any  consider¬ 
able  plantation  of  fruit  trees,  he  can  not  make 
a  better  investment,  than  to  take  a  week  of  time 
and  the  necessary  money,  and  visit  the  fruit¬ 
growers  of  the  neighborhood.  It  is  one  of  the 
beauties  of  horticulture  that  its  true  disciples 
have  large  and  liberal  views,  and  are  always  glad 
to  communicate  their  experience  to  others.  A 
few  days  spent  among  the  nearest  fruit-growera 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


15 


in  observing  their  trees,  and  discussing  their 
merits,  will  be  of  more  service  to  one  designing 
to  plant  an  orchard  than  all  the  advice  that  dis¬ 
tant  horticulturists  can  give.  One  of  the  most 
distinguished  fruit-growers  in  the  country,  and 
one  who  has  probably  tested  more  varieties  of 
fruits  than  any  other,  recently  said  to  us  that  he 
had  been  all  his  life  in  gathering  information 
and  needed  another  life  to  make  this  knowledge 
useful  to  him.  It  is  not  possible  for  one  who 
wishes  to  grow  fruit  for  profit  to  make  such  ex¬ 
periments  as  these,  but  it  is  in  his  power  to  avail 
himself  of  ihe  results  of  others’  experience. 

—  m  I  I— ^  ■ 

Agency  of  Insects  and  Winds  in  Effecting 
Fertilization. 

In  referring  to  our  staten».ent  that  the  “  Agri¬ 
culturist”  strawberry  did  not  fruit  under  glass, 
B.  C.  Townsend,  Esq.,  of  Long  Island,  writes  : 

“  As  this  is  a  perfect  variety,  there  is  only 
one  cause  which  can  be  fairly  assignable,  pro¬ 
vided  the  blossoms  were  fully  developed  and 
ordinary  care  exercised,  and  that  :3,  the  ab¬ 
sence  of  bees  and  insects  at  the  season  you 
speak  of.  This  is  evident  from  the  perfection 
of  the  same  plant  blossoming  in  the  open  air  at 
the  natural  period  in  early  spring,  when  these 
humble  workers  are  abroad. 

“  It  is  to  these  diligent  seekers  after  nectar  that 
we  are  principally  indebted  for  the  fructification 
of  nearly  all  our  fruit  blossoms ;  and  in  forcing 
fruits  under  glass,  the  process  not  being  natural, 
but  artificial,  it  follows  that  artificial  meaus  of 
impregnation  must  be  resorted  to,  to  scatter  the 
pollen.  Under  glass,  in  severe  weather,  but 
little  ventilation  is  allowed,  and  the  atmosphere 
is  in  some  measure  stagnant ;  while  out  of  doors, 
at  the  natural  season  of  blossoming,  light,  balmy 
breezes  scatter  the  pollen  from  each  blossom, 
even  without  the  aid  of  the  bees.  I  have  found 
it  effectual  to  take  a  light  pair  of  bellows,  and 
when  the  blossoms  in  the  forcing  house  were 
well  matured,  to  blow  gently  among  them, 
creating  a  light  breeze,  and  the  fruit  set  as  well 
in  each  case  as  when  growing  in  the  open  air.” 

Our  correspondent  has  probably  suggested 
the  true  reason  for  the  failure  to  procure  fruit 
from  the  strawberry  in  the  green-house.  Insects 
play  a  much  more  important  part  in  fertilization 
than  is  generally  supposed.  Careful  observa¬ 
tion  has  shown  that  there  are  some  plants,  the 
structure  of  which  is  such,  that  it  is  impossible 
for  the  pollen  to  come  in  contact  with  the  pistil 
of  the  same  flower,  but  it  is  so  arranged  that  an 
insect,  in  going  from  flower  to  flower,  conveys 
the  pollen  from  one  to  another.  This  cross 
fertilization  of  the  pistils  of  one  flower  with  the 
pollen  of  a  different  one,  tends  to  prevent  the 
perpetuation  of  individual  peculiarities,  and  to 
thus  ensure  uniformity  throughout  the  species. 


Flowers  for  Working  Men. 

The  American  Agriculturist  is  a  paper  for 
working  men  and  women,  and  it  takes  special 
pleasure  in  ministering  to  their  wants.  Why 
should  not  our  farmers  aud  mechanics,  with 
their  families,  take  more  interest  in  raising  flow¬ 
ers  ?  In  England,  and  on  the  Continent,  laborers 
ot  all  classes  are  devoted  to  floriculture.  You 
see  pots  and  boxes  of  them  in  their  windows, 
all  ablaze  with  beauty,  and  beds  by  the  door¬ 
step  and  patches  in  the  garden  are  filled  with 
the  flowers  which  all  hearts  love.  Gardening 
as  a  profession  or  calling  is  the  favorite  choice 
of  many.  At  the  agricultural  fairs,  carpenters, 


blacksmiths  and  machinists  often  carry  off  prizes 
for  flowers  and  small  fruits.  We  are  glad  to 
discern  the  beginning  of  such  tastes  here,  and 
are  more  pleased  to  see  the  small  gardens  of 
working  people,  than  the  large  parterres  of  our 
men  of  wealth.  They  send  sunshine  into  many 
hearts.  They  indicate  contentment  and  beget 
it ;  they  indicate  taste  and  an  increase  of  it.  If 
any  of  our  readers,  toiling  hard  for  daily  bread, 
have  no  flower  garden,  not  even  a  flower  pot, 
we  beg  them  in  some  way  to  contrive  a  change 
for  the  better.  Begin  in  a  small  way,  with 
something  cheap  and  common,  and  then  ad¬ 
vance  to  something  rarer  and  better.  The  pas¬ 
sion  will  grow  with  wha.  it  feeds  on. 


The  Iona  and  Israella  Grapes^ 


To  the  Editor  of  the  American  A griculturist. 

In  your  number  for  this  month  I  have  read 
an  article  under  the  above  heading,  the  character 
of  which  not  only  much  surprised  me,  when  I 
saw  it  was  written  by  one  so  generally  well 
informed  as  Mr.  H.  P.  Byram,  but  I  was  also 
astonished  to  find  such  an  array  of  misrepresen¬ 
tations  had  found  their  way  into  the  columns  of 
your  very  valuable  paper,  to  go  forth  with  it 
into  each  fiimily  of  your  one  hundred  thousand 
subscribers,  and  be  perused  by  the  lialf  million 
readers,  over  whom  you  so  justly  exercise  a  great 
influence. 

Now,  Mr.  Editor,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  I 
have  been  employed  as  foreman,  and  general 
agent  for  Dr.  Grant,  during  four  seasons,  and 
have  meanwhile  watched  carefully  the  develop¬ 
ments  of  all  the  fruits  here,  including  particularly 
the  Iona  and  Israella  grapes,  I  feel  called  upon 
to  correct  some  misstatements  made  in  said  ar¬ 
ticle,  and  speak  Mdiat  is  the  truth.  Having  had 
also  the  carrying  out  in  detail  of  all  the  experi¬ 
ments  which  have  been  tried  here  during  that 
time,  and  knowing  how  well  calculated  the  ar¬ 
ticle  to  which  I  refer,  is  to  mislead  the  public,  I 
cannot  believe  my  duty  is  less  than  to  give, 
through  your  paper,  a  statement  of  facts — facts 
which  can  be  substantiated  by  every  one  who 
has  lived  here,  and  by  all  who  have  any  know¬ 
ledge  of  them  whatever. 

Mr.  Byram  hinges  his  article  particularly  upon 
the  merits  of  the  Israella  grape,  and  the  means, 
which  he  claims.  Dr.  Grant  employed  to  secure 
its  early  ripening,  concerning  all  of  which  I 
might  perhaps  be  excused  from  speaking,  were 
I  not  generally  supposed  to  be  one  of  the  “  in¬ 
telligent  persons”  of  whom  he  speaks. 

First,  as  to  his  right  to  express  an  opinion  to 
the  public  concerning  its  quality.  He  first  came 
to  live  at  Iona  in  October,  1863,  which  was  six 
weeks  after  the  fruit  of  the  Israella  became  fully 
ripe,  and  more  than  four  weeks  after  all  the  best 
of  it  had  been  distributed  for  testing  by  fruit 
judges.  Remaining  here  until  some  time  in 
July  last,  he  went  to  Sag  Harbor,  Long  Island, 
and  did  not  return  again  until  nearly  the  first  of 
October.  At  that  time  I  had  been  absent  several 
weeks,  exhibiting  the  fruit  of  this  and  the  Iona, 
and  was  then  in  Ohio.  When  I  returned,  he 
told  me  he  had  never  yet  seen  a  bunch  of  the 
Israella,  and  wished  me  to  show  him  one.  This 
was  fully  six  weeks  after  the  Israella  ripened. 
Not  knowing  the  fruit  had  been  so  nearly  all 
cut  in  my  absence,  I  proposed  to  get  him  a 
bunch  from  the  vine,  but  it  was  found  none  were 
then  remaining,  except  one  or  two  very  imper¬ 
fect  specimens.  He  fairly  admitted  they  were 
improper  specimens  to  judge  from,  and  ex¬ 
pressed  a  regret  that  he  had  not  seen  the  fruit 
in  its  perfection.  That  these  grapes  were  shown 


in  good,  well  ripened  state,  the  first  wees  in 
September,  was  witnessed,  and  the  specimens 
tested  by  more  than  five  hundred  different  indi¬ 
viduals  at  the  New  England  Agricultural  Fail' 
at  Springfield,  Massachusetts,  among  whom  were 
many  of  the  leading  pomologists  in  the  Eastern 
States.  More  than  one  thousand  persons  can 
give  evidence  that  they  were  exhibited,  an<J 
fruit  of  them  distributed  at  the  New  York  State 
Fair,  at  Rochester,  and  all  who  visited  the  grape 
show  at  Cleveland,  Ohio,  were  afforded  speci¬ 
mens  of  each  variety  for  tasting.  At  each  place 
of  exhibition,  the  grapes  received  high  expres- 
siouo  of  merit  from  those  who  had  ample  oppor¬ 
tunity,  and  were  best  qualified  to  judge.  So 
much  for  Mr.  Byram’s  opinion  of  the  Israella, 
and  his  opportunity  of  judging  of  its  merits. 

Second,  as  to  manner  of  producing  said  fruit. 
Mr.  Byram  asserts  that  Dr.  Grant  has  forced 
every  “good  bearing  vine  of  Iona  and  Israeila,” 
and  gives  the  public  to  understand  that  all  ho 
(Dr.  G.)  has  written  concerning  their  time  of 
ripening  has  been  done  with  a  view  to  mislead. 
He  admits  however  the  excellence  of  the  Iona, 
and  concedes  to  it  all  the  merits  of  quality  its 
proprietor  lias  ever  claimed,  giving  other  per¬ 
sons  credit  of  having  raised  finer  specimens 
than  have  been  grown  here. - But  to  his  as¬ 

sertions  regarding  what  he  termed  a  “forcing 
process.”  In  his  article  he  states  that  “  early  in 
the  season  in  front  of  each  good  bearing  vine  of 
both  the  Israella  and  the  Iona,  was  first  placed 
a  large  glazed  sash,  and  then  on  the  back  or 
north  side  and  twelve  or  fifteen  inches  from  the 
vines  was  erected  a  large  wooden  screen  or  wall 
to  break  off  the  wind  on  the  one  side  and  to  re¬ 
flect  the  heat  of  the  sun  upon  the  vine  and  fruit 
on  the  other.”  This  statement  is  incorrect  in 
eveiy  particular,  for  within  the  past  four  years 
no  such  experiment  has  been  tried  upon  any 
one  vine  on  this  Island,  of  any  variety  whatever, 
The  time  of  ripening  of  the  Israella  as  set  down 
in  Dr.  Grant’s  catalogue  is,  as  I  have  observed 
it  here,  standing  unprotected  winter  and  sum¬ 
mer  in  the  open  vineyard. 

Mr.  Byram  does  positively  know  that  numer¬ 
ous  visitors  were  at  Iona  during  all  parts  of  last 
season,  and  that  very  many  made  pilgrimages 
here  for  none  other  than  the  express  purpose  of 
seeing  these  new  grapes.  He  knows  further, 
that  not  only  were  all  who  came  here  shown 
freely  about  by  the  proprietor  and  employees, 
but  that  every  person,  whether  visiting  here,  or 
on  business,  has  had  free  permission  to  walk 
everywhere  about  the  Island,  as  he  chose,  and 
further,  that  the  Iona  and  Israella  vines  in  bear¬ 
ing  were  particularly  pointed  out  to  all. 

It  is  perhaps  generally  known,  but  I  will  brief¬ 
ly  state  that  numerous  experiments  upon  vines 
and  trees  have  been  and  are  being  tried  here 
each  year.  Such  have  embraced  different  meth¬ 
ods  of  training,  pruning,  choice  of  exposure,  va¬ 
rieties  of  shelter,  etc.,  but  in  no  single  case 
within  the  past  four  seasons,  has  there  been  one 
vine  protected  on  two  sides,  nor  has  there  been 
protection  given  any  vines,  equal  in  effect  to  a 
continuous  board  fence  six  feet  high.  The  near¬ 
est  approach  to  this  is  a  shelter  commenced  but 
not  complete  for  a  system  of  vines  mostly  Del¬ 
awares,  on  the  Thomery  plan. 

Iona,  near  I'-.  AlVAH  BuSHNELL. 

Dec*  1 864, 

- - - - 

He  who  admits  that  he  has  a  secret  to  keep 
has,  by  doing  so,  revealed  one-half  of  it,  and 
the  other  will  be  likely  to  very  soon  follow. 

A  physician  is  an  unfortunate  gentleman,  who 
is  eveiy  day  called  upon  to  perform  a  miracle — 
to  reconcile  good  health  with  wrong  living. 


1865. j 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


17 


t— 

The  Eeeord  of  a  Year.— Oar  Picture. 


The  year  1864  was  one  of  great  events 
in  the  history  of  our  country  and  of  the  world. 
Providence  has  wonderfully  sustained  us— our 
armies  have  been  maintained  in  full  numbers, 
and  victorious,  our  crops  have  been  garnered, 
our  manufactures  have  been  flourishing,  the 
markets  good,  domestic  commerce  active,  and 
labor  well  rewarded.  The  earth  has  yielded 
from  the  gulches  of  tbs  mountains  vast  quanti¬ 
ties  of  precious  gold ;  and  the  no  less  precious 
iron,  and  copper,  and  deadly  lead  have  been 
raised  to  the  surface  in  great  measure, — coal, 
also,  more  than  ever  before ;  while  a  new  source 
of  immense  value,  the  wonderful  petroleum, 
comes  welling  up  from  the  depths  of  the  earth, 
pouring  wealth  into  the  hands  of  thousands. 

The  farms  over  the  broad  North  have  parted 
with  their  strong  men,  that  they  might  go  to  do 
battle  for  the  honor  of  the  flag,  the  integrity  of 
the  country,  and  for  the  principles  of  free  gov¬ 
ernment.  There,  far  away  in  the  field,  on  the 
perilous  picket  line,  watching,  scouting,  fight¬ 
ing,  foraging,  or  perhaps  sick,  or  in  prison,  or 
beneath  the  blood-soaked  sod,  are  the  men  who 
wielded  the  axe,  and  swung  the  cradle  and 
scythe — the  heads  that  planned,  and  the  hands 
that  sowed,  and  hoed,  and  harvested.  Re-enlist¬ 
ed  veterans  and  heroes  recovering  from  sickness 
or  wounds,  have  spent  a  few  quiet  weeks  at 
home.  (How  much  those  weeks  were  prized— 
how  long  to  be  remembered!)  Some  things 
change  a  great  deal  in  two  or  three  years— chil¬ 
dren  grow  fast  and  need  a  father’s  care,  and  the 
pets  of  the  stock-yard  and  fruit-garden  grow  too. 
Many  a  farmer,  after  his  years  of  service,  war¬ 
worn,  and  wounded  perhaps,  has  this  autumn 
returned  to  his  home  to  be  gladdened  by  the 
full  barns  and  granaries,  and  the  ample  provi¬ 
sion  of  pork  and  provender  for  the  winter, 
thanking  God  for  an  intelligent  thrifty  wife, 
under  whose  good  management,  with  the  labor 
of  old  men,  women  and  boys,  the  farm  has 
been  worked.  These  are  the  women  who, 
though  bent  upon  giving  a  good  account  of 
their  stewardships,  stand  behind  the  Sanitary 
Commission.  Blessed  women,  they  have  spun 
the  wool,  or  knit  the  stockings,  made  garments, 
stewed  and  canned  the  fruits,  and  sent  off  to 
the  army  stores  of  good  and  useful  things — a 
precious  freight  of  woman’s  labor — a  token  of 
the  sincerity  of  her  prayers  for  the  absent  loved 

ones,  and  the  dear  distracted  land. - Such 

thoughts  are  embodied  in  the  strikingly  beau¬ 
tiful  and  original  picture  with  which  we  embel¬ 
lish  our  New-Year’s  number,  and  seldom,  if 
ever,  has  the  vigorous  pencil  of  our  townsman, 
Mr.  Nast,  more  delicately  and  vividly  illustrated 
any  subject.  These  scenes  with  which  we  are 
now  so  familiar,  will  soon  be  historic,  and  in  fu¬ 
ture  years  this  picture  may  quicken  our  patriot¬ 
ism  by  the  memories  of  the  year  j  ust  past.  Every 
point  of  the  picture  is  suggestive.  The  good 
wife  exhibits  the  result  of  her  management.  An 
ambitious  boy  shows  the  tools  he  has  wrought 
with ;  the  little  girl  pulls  Papa  off  to  see  her 
poultry ;  and  Grandpa  with  two  stout  girls  is 
found  hard  at  work  among  the  turnips.  The 
hay-making  scene  on  the  farm  contrasts  finely 
with  that  of  the  returning  foraging  party  pass¬ 
ing  the  picket  line ;  and  the  two  pictures  of  the 
source  and  use  of  the  Sanitary  stores  are  in  no 
less  beautiful  contrast.  May  the  New  Year  which 
opens  so  brightly,  and  promises  so  soon  an 
honorable  termination  of  the  war,  bring  us  the 
happiness  of  a  united  people,  and  for  farmer 
folks  the  realities  of  peace,  and  not  of  war. 


Some  Hardy  Evergreens. 

In  planting  trees  we  are  apt  to  “  run  to  sorts.” 
If  one  kind  of  tree  is  found  to  do  well,  it  is  com¬ 
mon  to  see  a  whole  neighborhood  planted  with 
the  same  species.  A  maple  is  a  beautiful  tree, 
but  we  have  seen  a  fine  landscape  spoiled  by  a 
constant  succession  of  round  headed  maples. 
This  sameness  is  strongly  manifested  in  the  mat¬ 
ter  of  evergreens.  The  Norway  Spruce  and 
Arbor  Vitae  are  hardy  and  grow  well,  but  that 


Fig.  1. — AUSTKIA.N  PINE. 

is  no  reason  why  we  should  have  nothing  else, 
while  there  are  other  species  which  are  equally 
hardy  and  each  having  a  'character  of  its  own. 
We  hope  to  be  able  to  give  our  readers  from 
time  to  time  engravings  and  descriptions  of 
those  evergreens  which  are  suited  to  general 
culture. — The  Austrian  Pine,  Finns  Austriaca, 
is  a  tree  which  is  worth  growing  for  its  expres¬ 
sion  of  sturdiness  and  vigor.  It  looks  as  if  it 
had  a  right  to  the  soil  and  intended  fo  stay 
there.  It  generally  does  remain  where  it  is  put, 
as  it  is  perfectly  hardy  and  is  not  very  particu¬ 
lar  as  to  the  kind  of  soil,  provided  it  be  not  too 
wet.  The  leaves  are  in  twos,  slender,  straight, 
4  to  5  inches  long,  erect  when  young,  but  spread¬ 
ing  and  curved  toward  the  branch  when  old. 
The  buds  are  large,  being  about  an  inch  long. 
The  branches  are  arranged  in  regular  whorls. 


Fig.  3.— PINUS  PUMILIO. 


spreading,  with  the  ends  curved  upward.  The 
cones  are  3  to  3  inches  long,  an  inch  and  a  quar¬ 
ter  broad  at  the  base,  and  tapering  gradually  to 
the  point.  The  tree  grows  rapidly,  and  in  its 
native  country  reaches  to  the  bight  of  over  100 
feet,  and  when  old  has  a  flat  and  wide  spread¬ 
ing  top.  The  timber  is  tough,  strong  and  resi¬ 
nous,  and  is  highly  valued  for  joiners’  work. 


Tiie  Dwarf  Pine,  Finns  pumilio,  Fig.  2,  ia 
a  native  of  the  Alps  and  other  mountains  of 
Europe,  and  there  prefers  a  somewhat  swampy 
soil.  It  forms  in  cultivation  a  slow  growing, 
compact  bush,  with  its  low’cr  branches  close  to 
the  ground.  The  compact,  vigorous  habit  and 
dark  green  color,  render  it  a  desirable  pine  for 
small  grounds.  The  leaves  are  in  twos,  curved, 
3  inches  or  less  in  length,  very  thickly  set  on 
the  branches.  Cones  1  to  H  inches  long,  pendu¬ 
lous  and  bluntly  egg-shaped.  The  accompany¬ 
ing  engravings  are  from  drawings  taken  from 
specimens  growing  upon  the  N.  Y.  Central  Park. 


Fruit  Trees  as  Dwarf  Pyramids  or  Bushes. 


The  dw'arfing  of  trees  by  a  systematic  course 
of  pruning  both  the  roots  and  branches,  has 
been  practised  by  Thomas  Rivers,  the  venera¬ 
ble  English  Horticulturist,  for  nearly  half  a 
century.  In  a  recent  edition  of  his  “Minia¬ 
ture  Garden,”  he  still  enthusiastically  advocates 
this  method  of  culture  as  peculiarly  suited  to 
those  wdio  wish  to  grow  fruit  in  a  small  space. 
We  are  not  aware  that  his  system  has  been 
fairly  and  thoroughly  tried  in  this  country,  but 
if  all  its  conditions  are  complied  with,  there 
seems  to  he  no  good  reason  why  it  should  not 
be  as  successful  here  as  in  England.  Dwarf 
fruit  trees  do  wmll  in  pots,  and  this  is  onlj^  anoth¬ 
er  method  of  confining  the  roots  within  a  limit¬ 
ed  space  and  furnishing  them  with  an  abund¬ 
ance  of  nutriment.  For  those  who  wish  to  exr 
periment  with  this  mode  of  training,  the  follow'- 
ing  condensed  account  is  given.  For  a  dwarf 
pyramid,  the  young 
tree  must  be  on  a 
dw^arfing  stock,  as 
pear  on  quince,  etc. 

A  tree  one  year  old 
from  the  bud  or  graft, 
with  a  straight  stem, 
w’ell  furnished  with 
buds,  is  selected,  cut 
back  to  18  inches,  and 
planted  in  good  soil. 

Numerous  shoots  will 
start,  and  one,  the  up¬ 
per  one  if  strong, 
must  be  chosen  for  a 
leader,  and  if  it  does 
not  naturally  grow 
upright  it  is  made  to 
do  so  by  tying  to  a 
light  stake,  and  the  side  shoots,  if  neces¬ 
sary,  made  to  assume  a  regular  shape  by  ty¬ 
ing.  When  the  leading  shoot  is  10  inches 
long,  stop  its  grow'th  bj^  pinching  the  growing 
point,  and  if  it  pushes  side  shoots,  pinch  all 
but  the  leader  back  to  one  to  three  leaves. 
At  the  end  of  August  or  early  in  September, 
each  side  branch  isent  back  to  eight  buds  wiiich 
will  leave  the  tree  as  in  fig.  1.  This  ends  the 
treatment  for  the  first  season. — The  second  year 
the  side  branches  will  push  several  vigorous 
shoots,'  which  as  soon  as  they  have  made  four 
leaves  are  to  be  pinched  off  to  three,  and  if  these 
again  throw  out  shoots  they  must  be  pinched 
back  to  one  leaf,  and  this  is  to  be  done  with  all 
but  the  leading  shoot  of  each  side  branch.  The  up¬ 
right  leader  is  to  be  pinched  as  soon  as  it  has 
grown  ten  inches,  and  if  it  throw  off  side  shoots 
pinch  off  all  but  tlic  leading  one  as  directed  for 
the  first  year.  The  tree  as  it  will  appear  m  mia- 
summer  is  showm  at  fig.  3  (next  page),  where 
cross  lines  show  the  places  for  shortening 
the  shoots  about  the  end  of  August,  and  a,  a, 
the  spurs  which  have  been  pinched  back  in 


18 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


tJAjnJABT, 


June,  and  will  form  from  fruit  spurs.  The  same 
system  of  pruning  is  followed  in  subsequent 
years.  Every  young  shoot  when  it  has  made 
four  or  more  leaves  is  pinched  back  to  thi-ee 


leaves  except  the  leading  one  of  the  side  branch 
which  is  to  be  cut  back  in  August.  This  treat¬ 
ment  alone  will  produce  a  well  shaped  pyramid 
tree ;  but  when  it  is  desirable  to  keep  the  tree 
dwarf  and  confine  the  roots  to  a  limited  space, 
root  pruning  is  practised.  When  the  tree  has 
reached  the  bight  of  about  six  feet,  a  trench  is 
dug  around  it  in  autumn,  18  inches  from  the 
stem,  and  all  roots  inclined  to  grow  perpendic 
ularly  are  cut  off  with  a  sharp  spade.  The  hor- 
iaontal  roots  are  cut  with  a  sharp  knife  to  with¬ 
in  a  circle  of  18  inches,  and  the  trench  is  filled 
with  a  mixture  of  equal  parts  of  well  rotted 
manure  and  good  mould.  The  surface  over 
the  roots  is  covered  with  coarse  manure  which 
is  left  to  enrich  the  soil  and  serve  as  a  mulch. 
In  rich  soils  the  root-pruning  is  repeated  annu¬ 
ally,  and  in  poor  ones  once  in  two  years.  The 
result  is  that  in  a  few  years  the  entire  circle  of 
three  feet  around  the  tree  is  filled  with  fibrous 
roots.  If  the  roots  are  found  to  be  too  crowded. 


Fig.  3 —BUSH  PEAR  TREE. 


a  portion  of  them  may  be  thinned  out.  With 
those  varieties  which  naturally  have  a  straggling 
habit,  bush  training  will  answer  iMJtter  than  the 


pyramidal.  In  this,  no  leader  is  preserved  to 
secure  a  pyramidal  form,  but  the  shoots  are  all 
treated  alike  and  pinched  as  above  directed.  A 
bush  pear  tree  is  shown  in  fig.  8.  Root  prun¬ 
ing  is  practised  with  the  bushes  as  well  as  with 
pyramids,  or  the  tree  may  be  removed  every 
second  year  to  a  new  situation  which  has  been  en¬ 
riched  with  well  prepared  compost.  The  advan¬ 
tages  claimed  by  Mr.  R.  for  root-grafted  dwarfs 
are:  1st.  The  rendering  of  the  trees  eligible 
for  the  smallest  gardens.  2d.  The  facility  with 
which  blossom  buds  and  fruit  may  be  thinned 
and  the  fruit  gathered.  With  shy  bearing  sorts 
the  flowers  may  be  artificialiy  fertilized.  3d. 
The  cultivator  can  be  independent  of  the  natur¬ 
al  soil  of  the  garden,  as  with  a  small  quantity 
of  rich  compost  and  surface  manure  the  tree 
can  be  kept  in  full  vigor  in  a  poor  soil.  4th. 
The  ability  to  remove  old  trees  wdth  as  much 
ease  as  furniture — a  great  consideration  with 
tenants.  Of  course  this  system  can  not  be  re¬ 
commended  for  general  culture,  as  it  requires 
that  care  wiiich  can  only  be  given  to  fruit  in 
gardens.  Any  one  making  experiments  in  this 
direction  should  faithfully  carry  out  the  plan 
in  all  its  particulars,  to  secure  full  success. 


Peach  Trees  in  Cold  Climates. 


Some  months  ago  a  western  nurseryman,  who 
had  a  plan  for  protecting  peach  trees  during  se¬ 
vere  winters,  consulted  us  with  reference  to 
patenting  his  process.  Considering  that  patent¬ 
ing  a  mere  process  or  way  of  doing  a  thing  in 
horticulture  was,  to  say  the  least,  inexpedient, 
he  was  advised  to  give  his  simple  discovery  to 
the  general  fund  of  knowledge.  He  had  all 
his  life  profited  by  the  accumulated  experience 
of  thousands  of  others,  and  we  considered  it 
only  right  that  he  should  make  this  small  re¬ 
turn.  The  gentleman  would  not  consent  to 
make  his  discovery  public,  but  wished  us  to  ad¬ 
vertise  that  he  would  communicate  his  secret 
for  a  compensation.  This  proposition  w'as  de¬ 
clined  for  the  reason  that,  while  the  secret  might 
be  worth  the  sum  asked,  most  persons,  when 
they  found  out  how  simple  the  thing  was, 
would  consider  that  they  had  been  “  sold  ”  and 
would  blame  us  according!}’-.  The  process  in 
question  having  been  described  to  us  under  cir¬ 
cumstances  implying  confidence,  it  was  not  giv¬ 
en  publicity  and  the  matter  dropped.  In  a  re¬ 
cent  number  of  the  Country  Gentleman  another 
person,  “  V.  W.  S.,”  has  hit  upon  almost  pre¬ 
cisely  the  same  expedient  as  the  one  alluded  to, 
and  as  every  liberal  horticulturist  should,  he  com¬ 
municates  his  experience  for  the  benefit  of  the 
public.  The  method  is  simply  to  lay  down  the 
trees  and  keep  the  tops  covered  with  snow.  It 
is  done  as  follows:  dig  a  trench  on  one  side  of 
the  tree,  about  a  foot  from  the  trunk  and  suffl- 
cieutly  deep  to  uncover  the  roots.  The  lateral 
roots  on  this  side  are  to  be  cut  oflT  at  12  or  15 
inches  from  the  tree,  and  those  roots  which  run 
downward  are  to  be  severed  by  thrusting  a  sharp 
spade  directly  under  the  tree.  The  tree  may 
now  be  bent  over  and  the  branches  brought 
close  to  the  ground.  The  roots  upon  one  side 
being  severed,  and  the  remaining  ones  being 
undisturbed,  this  can  be  accomplished  without 
difficulty.  It  is  important  to  save  all  the  roots 
possible  and  yet  allow  the  tree  to  be  bent  down, 
and  only  those  should  be  severed  which  inter¬ 
fere  with  this  object.  The  upturned  roots  have 
sufficient  earth  placed  over  them  to  protect  them 
from  frost,  and  the  tops  are  lightly  covered  with 
refuse  vines  from  the  garden  or  similar  litter. 
When  snow  falls,  it  is  heaped  up  over  the  top 


of  the  tree  so  that  it  will  be  covered  to  the 
depth  of  six  inches  or  a  foot,  and  the  covering 
kept  on  all  winter.  In  spring  when  the  buds 
are  about  to  start,  the  tree  is  brought  up  to  its 
natural  position  and  secured  by  pressing  the 
earth  firmly  around  the  roots.  The  work  of 
laying  down  is  done  before  the  ground  freezes, 
and  the  first  snow  is  put  over  the  top,  taking 
care  to  keep  the  covering  repaired  from  time  to 
time.  It  is  advised  that  the  tree  be  pruned  in 
something  of  a  fan  shape,  in  order  to  bring  the 
mass  of  branches  as  near  the  ground  as  possi¬ 
ble.  The  writer  above  alluded  to  states  that 
he  has  followed  this  method  with  five  trees,  for 
two  years,  with  the  most  satisfactory  results. 
The  plan  seems  well  worthy  of  a  trial  in  those 
localities  where  the  limbs  of  peach  trees  are  li* 
able  to  be  winter-killed.  The  experiments 
should  be  made  with  young  trees.  The  in¬ 
cidental  root  pruning  will  promote  fruitfulnesa 


Cone-bearing  Plants  from  Cuttings, 

The  general  interest  now  felt  in  propagating 
evei-greens  of  the  Pine  family  has  led  several  to 
ask  the  method  of  raising  them  from  cuttings. 
With  some,  such  as  the  Arbor  vitees,  plants 
may  be  readily  grown  from  cuttings,  while  the 
Pines  usually  strike  root  with  the  greatest  diffi¬ 
culty,  if  at  all.  Mr.  W.  S.  Carpenter  has  had 
excellent  success  with  both  the  American  and 
Siberian  Arbor  Vitses  in  tlie  open  ground.  He 
makes  the  cuttings  in  May,  taking  twigs  from 
three  to  six  inches  long.  These  are  cut  “  with  a 
heel,”  i.  e.,  with  a  small  portion  of  the  branch 
from  which  they  came  adhering  to  them,  and  are 
set  out  in  well  drained  soil,  in  rows  a  foot  apart 
and  six  inches  distant  in  the  rows.  Most  of  the 
cuttings  root  the  first  season,  while  those  which 
do  not,  usually  survive  the  winter,  and  make 
roots  the  next  year.  Mr.  C.  thinks  that  90  per 
cent,  of  his  cuttings  live  and  make  plants.  The 
usual  way  of  striking  cuttings  in  the  green¬ 
house  is,  to  take  the  points  of  the  same  season’s 
growth  just  as  it  is  ripening,  about  2  or  3  inches 
in  length,  set  thickly  in  pots  of  pure  sand, 
and  cover  with  a  bell  glass  or  glass-top  box. 
They  are  kept  cool  until  spring,  when  they  are 
placed  where  they  will  have  a  very  gentle  bot¬ 
tom  heat.  Most  of  the  Spruces,  Firs,  Junipers, 
Cedars,  and  some  few  of  the  Pines  have  been 
grown  in  this  way.  Some  propagators  have 
excellent  success,  while  others  make  a  total 
failure  with  cuttings  of  the  more  difficult  ones. 


Experience  with  Insects. 


Mr.  David  Lawrence,  Sciota  Co.,  O.,  in  com¬ 
municating  some  of  his  gardening  experience, 
states  that  he  prevents  borers  from  attacking 
his  peach  trees  by  setting  them  about  9  inches 
deeper  than  they  stood  in  the  nursery,  thus 
putting  the  portion  of  the  tree  usually  attacked, 
below  the  reach  of  the  insects.  This  deep  set¬ 
ting  of  trees  is  so  contrary  to  general  practice 
that  we  can  not  advise  it ;  besides,  the  borer, 
though  it  prefers  the  base  of  the  tree,  will  fre¬ 
quently  deposit  its  eggs  several  feet  from  the 
ground ;  but  we  give  the  suggestion  for  those 
who  wish  to  experiment.  Mr.  L.  states  that  the 
trees  do  not  grow  very  vigorously  the  first  year, 
but  do  well  afterward,  and  being  set  so  deep, 
they  are  not  readily  affected  by  drouth.  The 
same  writer  finds  suds,  made  strong  with  soft; 
soap,  and  applied  hot,  to  be  efficacious  in  de¬ 
stroying  all  kinds  of  insects.  Hot  water  for  kill¬ 
ing  the  woolly  aphis  was  noticed  in  December. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


19 


Uaining  of  New  Fruits. 


Now  that  new  varieties  of  fruit  are  rapidly 
coming  into  notice,  it  is  very  desirable  that  care 
be  exercised  in  giving  them  names.  A  pleasant 
Bounding  name,  of  a  .single  word  if  possible,  is 
much  easrer  to  remember  and  less  likely  to  get 
corrupted  into  something  else,  than  long  names, 
of  several  words.  We  are  led  to  notice  this  sub¬ 
ject  from  seeing  in  a  recent  English  journal  a  de¬ 
scription  of  a  new  pear,  which  bears  the  name 
of  Pitmaston  Duchesse  d’  Angouleme.  Now 
Duchesse  d’  Angouleme  is  a  name  already  so 
inconveniently  long  that  popular  usage  has  re¬ 
duced  it  to  Duchess ;  but  to  prefix  a  word  to 
this,  is  simply  intolerable.  It  is  bad  enough  for 
the  French  to  send  us  fruits  burdened  with  such 
labels  as  “  BeurrS  Gris  d’  Hiver  Nouveau,”  and 
the  English  are  following  in  this  polynominal 
style.  We  hope  that  American  horticulturists 
will  not  be  led  to  copy  their  example.  Such 
names  as  Bartlett,  Buffum,  and  Baldwin,  are  in 
much  better  taste  and  more  serviceable  than 
those  we  have  above  quoted.  A  rhyming  cor¬ 
respondent  of  the  Horticulturist,  several  years 
ago,  uttered  his  protest  against  long  names  in 
humorous  verse,  a  portion  of  which  is  as  follows : 
Beuvre  de  Kuc.kingheim  !  Brown  Beurre  ' 

Tis  a  wonderful  jargon,  yes  sir-ree  ! 

Fits  to  utter,  cramps  to  spell, 

Dutch,  English  and  French  in  a  Jargonelle  ! 

Doyenne  d’  Alencon  d’  Hiver  Gris  ! 

Van  Mens  Leon  le  Clerc  !  dear  me  ! 

Bless  the  branches  and  save  the  root. 

If  all  that  talking  should  turn  to  fruit ! 

Elect  me  king,  and  I’ll  make  a  law 
Entitled  “An  act  for  your  lower  jaw;’’ 

Syllables  two  shall  name  a  tree. 

And  the  pear  shall  perish  that  carries  three, 

- - - - - - 

Are  Surface  Roots  of  Any  Use  ? 


A  correspondent  complains  that  when  he  digs 
up  his  garden  he  finds  the  soil  full  of  the  roots 
of  his  pear  trees,  and,  as  they  are  very  much  in 
the  way,  he  is  obliged  to  cut  them  off,  and  he 
asks  “  If  these  surface  roots  are  of  any  use  ?” 
The  inquirer  is,  doubtless  like  many  others,  un¬ 
der  the  impression  that  the  deeper  the  roots  go, 
the  better  the  tree  will  flourish.  In  a  garden 
where  the  ground  is  snaded  over  each  year,  or 
in  an  orchard  that  is  annually  cropped,  these 
surface  roots  have  but  little  chance,  and  roots 
must  be  formed  below  the  reach  of  injury  in 
order  that  the  tree  may  live  at  all.  The  feeding 
iOots  will  grow  where  there  is  the  greatest  sup¬ 
ply  of  nourishment,  and  in  a  soil  annually  ma¬ 
nured  to  no  very  great  depth,  they  will  have  a 
tendency  to  seek  the  richest  portion,  and  the  soil 
near  the  surface  will  be  filled  with  fibrous  roots. 
Surface  manuring,  now  practised  by  good  culti¬ 
vators,  has  the  efi'ect  to  cause  the  roots  to  grow 
near  the  surface.  Where  this  is  done,  coarse 
manure  should  be  used  and  the  litter  left  on  the 
ground  during  the  summer,  or  a  heavy  mulch 
of  some  other  material  must  be  supplied,  oth¬ 
erwise,  the  roots  being  so  near  the  surface,  will 
suffer  from  drouth.  Surface  manuring  and 
mulching  must  go  together. — To  come  back  to 
our  correspondent’s  case.  He  can  not  success¬ 
fully  grow  fruit  trees  and  other  plants  in  the 
same  soil,  and  it  is  much  better  to  give  up  either 
his  fruit  or  his  vegetables  than  to  have  an  indif¬ 
ferent  crop  of  the  two  together.  We  have  fre¬ 
quently  advised  having  the  kitchen  and  fruit 
garden  distinct  when  there  is  sufldcient  land  to 
allow  it.  Where  fruit  trees  must  be  grown  in 
the  general  garden  or  not  at  all,  then  they 
ihould  b«  only  dwarf  trees,  which  must  be  kept 


dwarf  by  proper  pinching ;  as  the  root  growth 
bears  a  direct  relation  to  that  of  the  branches, 
we  have  it  in  our  power  to  control  it  in  good 
measure.  An  article  on  root  pruning  in  another 
place  will  give  some  suggestions  to  those  who 
wish  to  grow  fruit  trees  on  a  small  plot  of  soil. 


The  English  horticultural  papers  have  during 
the  past  year  made  quite  a  talk  over  one  of  our 
wild  plants,  the  Collinsia  verna.  They  consider 
it  valuable  for  massing,  as  it  comes  into  flower 
very  early,  and  when  planted  closely  covers  the 
bed  with  a  sheet  of  lively  blue.  The  plant  was 
first  discovered  by  Nuttall,  on  the  borders  of 
Lake  Erie,  in  1810 ;  but  having  lost  his  speci¬ 
mens  he  in  1816  made  a  journey  of  over  a  hun¬ 
dred  miles  for  the  purpose  of  procuring  it  again. 
He  was  fortunate  enough  to  find  the  plant,  but 
only  in  seeds.  These  he  secured  and  raised  speci¬ 
mens  which  he  described,  dedicating  the  new 
genus  to  Zaccheus  Collins,  Esq.,  a  botanist  of 
Philadelphia.  The  plant  grows  in  rich  and 
rather  shady  places  in  Western  New  York,  and 
further  westward.  It  is  about  a  foot  high,  and 
blooms  in  May.  The  general  appearance  of 
the  plant  is  shown  in  the  figure,  which,  being 
taken  from  a  cultivated  specimen,  is  somewhat 
larger  than  the  plant  appears  in  its  wild  state. 


It  belongs  to  the  Pigwort  fiimily  and  is  closely 
related  to  the  Pentstemons,  though  most  persons 
at  first  sight  mistake  it  for  a  species  of  violet. 
The  lower  lip  of  the  corolla  is  three-cleft,  of  a 
bright,  beautiful  blue,  while  the  upper  lip  is  two- 
cleft  and  somewhat  bent  backward,  white  with 
yellow  markings.  The  capsule  produces  only 
three  or  four  seeds.  The  Collinsia  verna  is  no¬ 
ticed  in  order  that  those  who  live  in  those  States 
where  it  grows  may  be  able  to  recognise  it  and 
introduce  it  into  their  gardens.  The  seeds  ripen 
in  June  and  must  be  sown  in  September;  the 
young  plants  should  have  a  slight  protection  of 
leaves  during  winter.  Collinsia  hicolor,  a  Califor¬ 
nian  species,  is  a  well  known  and  favorite  annual. 
- - - - - 

Notes  on  Grapes  and  Grape  Culture... -I. 


As  a  few  nurserymen  who  have  a  large  stock 
of  some  particular  grape  for  sale,  have  accused 
us  of  being  prejudiced  in  favor  of  some  fruits 
and  against  others,  we  would  remind  them  that 
the  writer  of  these  notes,  though  he  has  bought 
a  good  many  vines,  has  never  sold  one  in  his  life, 
and  has  no  possible  motive  or  interest  to  give 
anything  but  his  unbiassed  opinion.  Our  views 
on  varieties  are  not  expressed  for  the  benefit  of 
those  who  have  vines  to  sell,  but  for  those  who 
wish  to  purchase.  Several  times,  a  half  dozen 
or  so  of  some  new  seedling  or  alleged  hybrid 
have  been  sent  for  an  opinion,  in  some  cases  evi¬ 
dently  with  a  hope  of  getting  an  approval  which 
might  be  used  to  help  the  sale  of  the  variety. 
We  shall  try  not  to  get  caught  in  this  way.  No 
fruit  can  be  fully  recommended  for  general 
culture  until  it  has  been  proved  for  several 
years  and  in  different  locations. 

The  Adirondac. — Tliis  variet}’’  has  fruited  in 
several  localities  this  year.  While  Mr.  Brehm, 
of  Waterloo,  N.  Y.,  unqualifiedly  condemns  the 
Adirondac,  Mr.  Rogers  of  Maryland,  gives  it  un¬ 
reserved  praise.  This  only  shows  that  the  grape 
does  well  near  Baltimore,  and  docs  not  flourish 
near  Seneca  Lake.  Letting  these  two  reports 
neutralize  one  another,  we  add  one  from  a  wide¬ 
ly  different  region.  Mr.  W.  C.  Thurlow,  of 
Newburyport,  Mass.,  planted  several  strong 
vines  of  the  Adirondac,  in  the  spring  of  1863. 
He  says :  “  These  all  grew  well,  ripened  their 
wood  early,  and  appeared  free  from  mildew. 
A  branch  of  one  vine  I  left  tied  to  a  stake,  un¬ 
protected,  last  winter ;  the  others  were  covered 
with  the  soil.  The  exposed  vine  was  not  injured ; 
however,  the  winter  was  not  severe  enough  to 
kill  peach  blossoms.  One  vine  bore  five  bunches 
of  grapes  last  season.  The  vine  was  severely 
taxed — forty  good  layers  having  been  made  from 
it  the  same  s’eason,  still  the  fruit  ripened  very 
early — at  the  same  time  as  the  Hartford 
Prolific,  and  was  of  excellent  quality.” 

Mr.  Walter  Coe,  of  Washington  Co.,  Iowa, 
finds  crushed  corn  stalks  better  than  earth  for 
winter  covering.  He  uses  them  also  to  mulch 
his  entire  vineyard,  thus  keeping  the  ground  in 
fine  condition,  and  saving  much  labor  in  culti¬ 
vation. — A  correspondent  in  Brooklyn,  N.  Y., 
propagates  the  Delaware  in  a  small  way  with¬ 
out  the  aid  of  a  regular  structure  for  the  pur¬ 
pose.  He  says :  “  Over  the  range  in  my  kitch¬ 
en,  the  stone  supporting  the  chimney  breast  pro¬ 
jects  and  forms  a  shelf,  which  is  always  quite 
warm.  On  this  shelf,  last  spring,  I  placed  boxes 
of  clear  sand,  and  in  this  I  planted  cuttings  of 
Delaware  vines,  of  one  e}^  each,  and  covered 
over  the  boxes  with  a  pane  of  glass.  The  sand 
was  kept  damp,  and  in  a  short  time  the  vines 
rooted  and  formed  leaves.  I  then  removed  the 
vines  and  planted  them  in  small  pots  of  rich  earth 


30 


AMERICAN  AORTCURTURIST. 


[Jancabt, 


mixed  with  sand,  aud  placed  them  iu  the  shade. 
When  well  established.  I  planted  them  in  beds, 
and  nearly  every  cutting  lived  and  formed  a  vine.” 
- 


deservedly  popular  plants,  but  for  s<mie  reason 
the  Exochorda,  which  is  in  its  w.ay  equally  beau¬ 
tiful,  seems  to  have  been  very  sparingly  distrib¬ 
uted.  ]\Ir.  F.  at  first  supposed  it  to  be  a  sitecies 
of  Amelanchier,  and  sent  it  as  a  A.  racemona.  Sir 
Wm.  Hooker,  considered  it  as  a  remarkai)le 
Spiroea,  and  described  and  figured  it  as  S.  gra.ndi- 
flora,  but  this  was  before  the  fruit  was  known. 
Later,  the  name  Exochorda  was  given  it  (by  Dr. 
Lindley,  we  think),  as  its  fruit  is  very  different 
from  that  of  Spiraea,  and  has,  when  ripe,  a  pe¬ 
culiar  cord-like  attachment,  which  suggested 
the  new  generic  name.  Though  related  to  the 
Spiraeas,  which  furnish  us  so  many  ornamental 
shrubby  and  herbaceous  species,  this  plant  has 
not  only  a  different  habit,  but  presents  botani¬ 
cal  characters  which  separate  it  from  them. 
While  this  plant  was  formerly  called  Spircea 
grandiflora,  it  must  not  be  confounded  with  one 
commonly  bearing  that  name  in  the  c.atalogues, 
which  is  only  a  large  flowered  variety  of  the 
common  iSl.  salicifolia.  The  Exochorda  seems 
disposed  to  f  row  tree-like,  and  does  not,  like  the 
shrubby  Sfirteas,  throw  up  suckers  from  the 
base.  The  engraving  was  made  by  our  artist 
from  a  specimen  in  the  grounds  of  A.  S.  Fuller,  of 
Brooklyn.  It  shows  a  small  branch  in  flower 


with  the  parts  of  the  natural  size.  The  leaves 
are  of  a  veiy  tender  green,  and  the  flowers  of  a 
pure  white.  When  in  flower  the  bush  appears 
as  if  covered  w'ith  snow'  flakes.  When  first  in¬ 
troduced,  it  w'as  culti¬ 
vated  as  a  green-house 
plant,  but  it  has  been 
found  to  be  perfectly 
hardy  around  New- 
York  and  Boston.  Thus 
far  the  plant  has  been 
found  rather  difflcult  to 
propagate,  but  w'e  be¬ 
lieve  that  it  may  be  had 
of  almost  all  of  the 
principal  nurserymen. 
- o - 

Gannas  in  Groups. 

The  common  Indi.an 
Shot,  Ganna  Indica,  has 
long  been  grown  in  gar¬ 
dens,  and  of  late  years 
many  others  have  been 
introduced,  until  our 
seed  catalogues  enum¬ 
erate  some  two  dozen 
varieties  and  species. 
These  vary  in  height 
from  tw'o  to  six  feet,  and 
have  different  sliaped 
leaves,  which  in  some 
are  tinged  and  striped 
with  red  and  other  col¬ 
ors.  A  slightly  elevated 
mound  in  a  lawn  plant¬ 
ed  with  cannas,  the  tall 
kinds  in  the  centre,  and 
the  lower  growing  ones 
ne.ar  the  circumference, 
produces  a  fine  effect. 
The  foliage  has  a  de¬ 
cidedly  tropical  char.ac- 
ter,  and  the  flowers, 
ranging  in  color  from 
yellow'  to  bright  scarlet, 
are  very  showy.  In 
order  to  get  the  plants 
well  advanced,  the  seed 
should  be  started  in  a 
hot-bed,  after  soaking 
in  warm  water  for  12  hours.  Transplant  in 
May,  or  when  the  soil  is  well  warmed.  The 
roots  may  bo  preserved  overwinter  in  a  dry  cel¬ 
lar,  if  lifted  and  stored  before  they  are  injured 
by  frost,  and  again  planted  the  following  spring. 


Ornaments  for  the  Garden  and  Lawn. 

It  is  rare  that  wm  see  in  gardens  vases,  stat¬ 
ues,  seats,  etc.,  in  good  taste,  and  unless  they 
are  introduced  in  keeping  with  the  surround¬ 
ings,  they  are  better  omitted  altogether.  Stat¬ 
ues  and  artistic  vases  are  only  tolerable  where 
the  house  is  a  fine  specimen  of  architecture,  and 
the  grounds  highly  kept.  On  the  other  hand 
rustic  vases  and  seats  may  be  judiciously  intro¬ 
duced  into  the  most  unpretending  grounds  ivith 
good  effect.  As  the  leisure  and  stormy  days  of 
winter  afford  abundant  opportunities  for  those 
who  are  handy  with  tools  to  contrive  such  arti¬ 
cles  for  use  next  spring,  wm  give  a  few  sugges¬ 
tions  regarding  them.  If  the  grounds  are  small, 
we  must  be  very  sparing  with  ornaments,  or 
they  will  look  over-embellished,  like  a  parlor  we 
once  saw  in  Mexico,  which  contained  half  a 
dozen  Connecticut  clocks  and  more  than  twice 


Notes  on  the  Exochorda  Grandiflora. 


This  plant  was  sent  from  China 
to  England,  about  ten  years  ago, 
by  Mr.  Fortune,  the  traveller,  to 
whom  we  are  indebted  for  so 
many  floral  contributions.  The 
Weigelas,  Dicentr.a,  and  others 
of  his  introductions,  are  now 
among  our  most  common  and 


that  number  of  cheap  looking  glasses.  The 
more  rustic  such  ornaments  are,  the  better ;  we 
have  seen  an  old  and  rough  hollow'  stump 
made  to  serve  as  a  vase  and  clothed  with  vines, 
which  was  a  much  more  pleasing  object  than 
many  that  are  very  costly.  In  the  present 
article  w'e  notice  vases  only,  as  these  seem  to  be 
just  now  very  popular.  One  general  fault  with 
the  attempt  at  building  rustic  vases  is,  that 
the  workman  does  not  consider  the  great  weight 


Fig.  l.~ KCSTIC  VASE. 


they  must  sustain  when  filled  w'ith  earth 
and  plants,  and  in  a  short  time  they  become 
rickety,  out  of  the  perpendicular,  .and  unsightly. 
Strong  w'orkmanship  should  be  a  prime  consid¬ 
eration.  A  rustic  vase  should  be  eilber  circular 
or  octagonal ;  a  square  one  looks  too  angular  and 
box-like.  Tw'o  feet  in  diameter,  wuth  the  sides 
six  inches  higii,  is  a  good  size;  or  if  warned 
larger,  three  feet  across  and  eight  inches  deep 
To  make  a  circular  vase,  cut  out  a  circular  hot 
tom  board,  and  as  it  will  be  in  at  least  tw'C- 
pieces,  batten  it  firmly  togelli(!r,  and  make  the 
sides  of  narrow  stuff,  with  the  edges  bevelled 
inward  to  make  a  better  joint.  The  top  is  to 
be  strengthened  by  nailing  on  a  split  sapling, 
and  one  of  the  same  kind  at  the  bottom  to  make 
a  finish.  The  sides  are  then  ceverad  with  long¬ 
itudinal  strips  of  rough  bark  neatly  nailed  on 
For  an  octagonal  vase,  an  eight-sided  hottom  ii" 
made,  and  the  sides  w’ith  the  coiuiguotts  edgcir 
planed  to  fit  neatly.  This  may  be  covered  with 


Fig.  a.'  Fig.  3. 


bark  as  before  mentioned,  or  be  nuule  rathei 
more  elaboriitc  by  covering  the  sides  with  split 
twigs  so  iis  to  make  a  sort  of  inlaid  w'ork.  Fig¬ 
ures  2,  3  and  4,  w’ill  suggest  some  styles  foi 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


21 


this  ornamentation,  and  a  little  ingenuity  will 
contrive  others.  After  all  is  done,  cover  the 
twigs  with  a  coal  of  boiled  linseed  oil.  The  ped¬ 
estal  should  be  very  firm.  It  often  happens  that 
a  tree  must  be  remov¬ 
ed  from  the  very  place 
where  a  vase  would  be 
desirable.  If  the  tree 
is  sawed  off  at  the  proj)- 
er  hight,  a  very  firm  ped¬ 
estal  will  be  secured,  to 
which  the  vase  can  be 
spiked.  The  design  at 
fig.  1,  was  furnished  by  4. 

“A  Subscriber,”  in  Queens  Co.  He  strengthens 
the  support  by  the  addition  of  brackets  sawed 
out  of  plank.  Ivy  or  Virginia  Creeper,  may  be 
planted  to  climb  upon  the  pedestal.  When  a 
stump  of  this  kind  is  not  available,  a  portion  of 
the  trunk  of  a  tree  can  be  set  firmly  into  the 
ground.  Sometimes  baskets  are  built  around 
the  trunk  of  a  living  tree,  and  filled  with  flower¬ 
ing  plants.  This  we  do  not  consider  in  good 
taste.  A  tree  is  an  object  of  beauty  in  itself,  and 
any  addition  of  this  kind  detracts  from  it,  and 
spoils  its  expression.  The  vase  may  be  filled 
with  earth  and  planted  with  flowering  plants, 
or  pots  may  be  set  within  it  and  covered  with 
moss.  During  hot  weather  care  should  be  taken 
that  the  plants  do  not  suffer  for  lack  of  water. 

- - - - --m. - 

House  Plants  in  Winter. 


The  attempts  to  gi'ow  ]5lants  in  close  rooms, 
overheated  by  hot  air  furnaces,  are  generally 
failures.  The  plants  become  sickly  and  “drawn 
up,”  in  the  parlors  of  our  first-class  houses, 
wliile  in  those  of  less  pretension  we  frequently 
see  them  vigorous  and  flourishing.  In  houses 
without  “  modern  improvements,”  the  air  is  not 
heated  until  its  capacity  for  moisture  is  such 
as  to  greedily  take  it  from  the  plants,  as  well 
as  from  the  persons  who  dwell  tliere,  nor  are 
the  windows  sealed  so  tightly  that  the  plants 
can  not  have  a  breath  of  fresh  air  from  without. 
If  people  will  make  a  climate  in  their  houses 
like  that  of  a  desert,  they  must  content  them¬ 
selves  with  such  plants  as  are  naturally  adapted 
to  arid  regions.  Cactuses,  Crassulas,  Sedums 
and  such  thick-skinned  plants  will  endure  an 
amount  of  roasting  and  drying  which  would 
kill  a  Camellia  or  a  Rose.  Supposing  the  plants 
to  be  well  established  in  good  soil,  the  three 
points  to  be  attended  to  are ;  air,  water  and  clean¬ 
liness.  Plants  need  fresh  air,  and  every  day 
when  the  weather  is  not  too  cold,  the  sash 
should  be  let  down  at  the  top,  and  on  very  mild 
days  kept  open  during  the  warmer  part  of  the 
day.  In  the  first  place,  cleanliness  is  to  be  ob¬ 
served  with  the  pots.  If  they  have  become  cover¬ 
ed  with  a  green  film,  they  are  to  be  set  in  a  pail 
of  water  and  soaked  a  while,  and  the  green  mat¬ 
ter  washed  off  with  a  cloth  or  scrubbing  brush. 
The  inside  of  the  pot  should  be  clean  down  to 
the  earth,  and  the  surface  of  the  soil  free  from 
moss  and  fallen  leaves.  As  to  the  plants  them¬ 
selves,  the  two  great  troubles  are  dust  and  in¬ 
sects.  A  paper  or  light  muslin  screen  laid  over 
them  while  the  room  is  being  swept,  will  keep 
off  a  great  deal  of  dust,  but  even  this  will  not 
obviate  the  necessity  for  washing  and  syringing. 
Broad  and  smooth-leaved  plants  may  be  washed 
with  a  soft  sponge,  or  what  is  better,  placing 
the  hand  over  the  earth,  turn  the  plant  upside 
down,  and  move  it  briskly  about  for  a  few 
■econds  in  a  vessel  of  water.  Then  set  the 
plant  upright,  wash  each  leaf  between  the 


finger  and  thumb,  and  afterwards  give  it  an¬ 
other  rinsing.  A  plant  too  large  to  be  treated  in 
this  way,  may  be  S}U'inged;  or  lay  it  down  and 
let  water  fall  upon  it  from  a  considerable  hight 
from  a  watering  pot.  This  can  be  done  out  of 
doors  in  mild  weather,  and  in  cold  weather  in 
a  sink  or  bathing  tub.  If  plants  are  frequently 
washed,  they  will  be  but  little  troubled  by  in¬ 
sects.  The  red  spider  is  quite  averse  to  mois¬ 
ture;  the  green  fly,  however,  likes  it,  but  may 
be  destroyed  so  readily  by  tobacco  smoke,  that 
only  neglected  plants  will  suffer  from  this 
cause.  The  mealy  bug  is  so  large  that  it  may 
be  easily  picked  off.  Watering  must  be  proi>erly 
attended  to,  and  while  the  plant  must  not  suffer 
from  lack  of  moisture,  the  roots  must  not  be  kept 
saturated  with  water.  The  sound  of  the  pot 
when  struck  by  the  knuckles  is  quite  different, 
when  the  ball  of  earth  is  wet,  from  what  it  is 
when  dry.  This  and  the  lagging  look  of  the 
plant  will  indicate  that  water  is  needed.  A  lit¬ 
tle  practice  will  soon  enable  one  to  anticipate 
the  wants  of  the  plant,  and  to  supply  Avater  at 
the  proper  time.  When  the  ball  of  earth  be¬ 
comes  diy,  it  takes  water  a  Icmg  while  to  pene¬ 
trate  it,  and  surface  waterings  do  not  accom¬ 
plish  the  object.  In  this  case,  set  the  pot  in  a 
pail  of  water,  and  let  it  so  dc  until  the  earth  is 
thoroughly  wetted  through.  If  proper  care  in 
the  respects  above  mentioned  fail  to  induce  a 
healthy  growth,  then  the  plant  must  be  repotted 
with  fresh  eai  th,  and  have  a  portion  of  its  top 
cut  back.  Irregularities  in  shape  must  be  cor¬ 
rected  from  time  to  time  by  pinching  off  the 
shoots  which  may  start  to  grow  out  of  place. 


TMIE  ll'II)I[JgIS]BI®ILB. 


Putting  Moisture  in  the  Air  Important. 


Every  person  should  understand  this  scientific 
fact,  viz. :  that  whenever  air  becomes  warmer,  it 
secretes  or  hides  a  certain  amount  of  moisture.  To 
illustrate:  In  a  room  14  feet  square  and  10  feet 
higli,  tlie  air  will  hold  2^  gills  of  watery  vapor, 
when  it  is  just  at  the  freezing  point  (32^).  But 
heat  the  air  up  to  the  eoniloitalde  warmth  of 
70“,  and  it  will  then  hold  8  sills  of  watery  vapor. 
The  air  will  obtain  this  extra  5}^  gills  of  water 
from  some  source  if  i)ossii>le.  If  not  supplied 
artificially,  it  will  absorb  the  particles  of  moisture 
from  the  furniture,  drying  and  cracking  it,  and  es¬ 
pecially  from  the  skin  and  the  lungs,  causing  one 
to  feel  a  sense  of  husky  dryness,  and  often  faintness 
and  drowsiness  will  be  experienced.  A  room  10 
feet  square  and  10  feet  high  contains  1000  cubic 
feet  of  air.  A  gill  of  water  weighs  1750  grains. 
The  following  table  shows  the  number  of  grains  of 
watery  vapor  required  to  saturate  1000  cubic  feet 
of  air  when  at  the  different  temperatures  named: 

1000  feet  of  air  at  O’,  contains  180  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  32°,  contains  23.10  erains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  40“  contains  30'fiO  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  50“  contains  4240  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  60“,  contains  5820  grains  of  water 

1000  feet  of  air  at  70“,  contains  7940  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  80“  contains  10730  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  90“.  contains  143S0  grains  of  water. 

1000  feet  of  air  at  100“,  contains  19120  grains  of  water. 

The  Practical  Lesson  to  be  learned  from  this  is, 
that  if  we  would  have  the  atmosphere  of  a  warm 
room  pleasant  and  healthful,  and  save  the  furniture 
from  becoming  dry  and  cracked,  we  must  always 
provide  moisture.  A  wide  pan  of  water  should  al¬ 
ways  be  placed  on  the  stove,  or  in  the  heating  fur¬ 
nace,  at  a  point  where  it  will  be  heated  enough  to 
send  off  vapor  into  the  air,  and  it  should  be  kept 
supplied  with  water  at  all  times.  Towels,  napkins, 
or  other  cloths  hung  near  the  fire,  and  wetted  as 
Sften  as  they  become  dry,  will  impart  an  agreeable 
feeling  to  the  air  of  a  warm  room.  Every  lady 
must  hiive  noticed  how  pleasant  the  chiinge  from 
the  dry  sitting  or  dining  room,  to  the  laundry  or 
kitchen  where  damp  clothes  are  hanging  around, 


if  not  in  so  large  quantity  as  to  produce  over¬ 
dampness.  The  objection  to  stoves  and  hot-air 
furnaces  has  no  doubt  resulted  from  the  ahsenca 

of  sufficient  moisture-supplying  apparatus _ The 

above  hints  are  important  for  school-rooms  and 
churches,  and  if  attended  to  will' promote  health 
and  comfort,  and  often  remove  dullness  from  the 
pupils,  and  drowsiness  from  the  worshippers. 


A  Short  Chapter  on  Bonnets,  etc. 


The  Fashion  in  1860.  The  Fashion  in  1863. 

What  Next? 

“  That’s  what  we  have  come  to,”  exclaimed  our 
artist,  as  he  finished  the  “  Fashion  Plate  ”  below. 
He  had  been  walking  through  Broadway  in  this 
city,  noticing  with  more  surprise  than  admiration 
the  fantastic  forms  of  dress,  particularly  of  head- 
gear,  exhibited  by  the  extra  fashionables.  He 
may  have  exaggerated  just  a  little  for  artistic 
effect,  and,  being  a  man,  perhaps  he  does  not  know 
exactly  how  to  view  such  things.  He,  however,  de¬ 
clares  that  ladies  do  wear  large,  stuffed  birds  on 


Our  “  Fashion  Plate,”  for  1665. 

their  “  pork  pie  ”  hats,  bags  of  something  on  their 
shoulders,  and  we  h.avc  been  assured  privately  that 
they  certainly  sometimes  carry  “  rats”  behind  their 
ears.  The  artist  did  not  quite  succeed  in  hiding  tbo 
one  in  the  picture ;  the  ladies  m.anage  to  keep 
them  concealed. — Seriously,  in  some  of  the  recent 
styles  of  dress,  novelty  and  display  are  more  sought 
than  comfort  and  elegance.  Fashion  is  a  powerful 
tyrant,  hut  we  trust  that  the  good  sense  of  free 
American  women  is  stronger  than  any  despot,  and 
that  they  will  leave  absurdities  of  dress  to  those 
have  no  higher  aim  th.an  “  to  be  seen  of  men.’ 


Takings  Tea  in  the  Country. 

We  have  undergone  many  trials  in  our  life,  but 
none  h.ave  more  thoroughly  tc*sted  our  powers  of 
endurance  than  the  attempts  we  have  made  to  do 
full  justice  to  the  hospitality  of  our  country  friends 
— or  rather  to  fulfil  the  expectations  of  our  host¬ 
esses — who  have  invited  us  “  to  tea.”  We  have 
very  vividly  in  memory  certain  tables,  which  would 


22 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[January, 


have  held  more  had  there  only  been  room  for  it. 
So  many  sorts  of  cake  and  varieties  of  sweetmeats, 
such  a  promiscuity  of  pickles,  with  meats,  pics, 
cheese,  crullers,  and  numerous  other  etceteras,  were 
crowded  in  such  profusion,  that  one  was  appailed 
at  the  display  of  the  resources  of  housekeeping. 
There  are,  however,  other  recollections  connected 
with  these  “  teas  they  are  of  hot  yellow  salera- 
tus  biscuits,  uncomfortable  rest,  and  morning  li cad- 
aches.  The  conversation  of  the  guests,  mainly  car¬ 
ried  on  by  the  ladies,  seemed  to  be  a  sort  of  battle 
of  cook  books,  and  may  be  summed  up  in  “  pound 
for  pound,  four  eggs  to  a  quart  of  milk,  and  season 
to  your  taste.”  To  give  one  of  these  set  teas  must 
require  days  of  preparatory  labor  and  needless  ex¬ 
pense.  Each  hostess  strives  to  equal,  or  outdo, 
her  neighbor  in  the  magnificence  of  her  taljle,  and 
thinks  quantity  and  variety  more  necessary  than  qual¬ 
ity,  in  maintaining  a  reputation  as  a  good  house¬ 
keeper.  We  object  to  these  elaborate  teas  altogether. 

“  Spare,  Oh !  spare  your  evening  meal, 

And  sweet  shall  be  your  rest.” 

We  believe  in  these  social  gatherings,  but  do  not 
believe  in  stuffing  the  guests.  It  is  not  hospitality 
to  press  one  to  try  fourteen  kinds  of  cake  after  he 
has  had  enough.  Almost  every  one  who  lives  in 
the  country  can  give  a  tea  which  shall  be  good 
enough  for  the  best  in  the  land,  and  yet  be  so  sim¬ 
ple  that  the  guests  shall  not  go  to  bed  in  fear  of 
nightmare.  The  essentials  are  tea,  bread,  butter, 
cream  and  fruit,  and  the  chiefest  of  these  are  bread 
and  butter.  Whoever  can  give  a  slice  of  liglit, 
white,  sweet  bread,  with  fragrant,  golden,  not  over 
s.altcd  butter,  need  not  trouble  her  head  about 
cake.  Let  whatever  else  be  indifferent,  these  being 
good,  the  meal  is  a  success.  With  these,  and  good 
tea,  some  cold  meat  or  chicken,  and  nicely  canned 
fruit,  with  cream,  all  served  neatly,  every  sensible 
guest  will  be  better  satisfied,  and  the  hostess  will 
not  be  overwhelmed  with  the  labor  of  preparation. 
Who  will  introduce  the  reform  ?  At  the  same 
time  introduce  punctuality — not  invite  to  a  6 
o’clock  tea  which  is  tardily  served  at  8 — and  abol¬ 
ish  all  cooking  talk,  especially  while  at  the  table. 

A  few  Words  to  Pulmonary  Invalids. 

BY  ONE  OF  THE  NUIIBEK. 


Mr.  Editor  : — Our  country  abounds  with  per¬ 
sons  suffering  from  some  disorder  of  the  lungs  or 
respiratory  organs.  In  almost  every  second  family, 
are  those  afiected  more  or  less  seriously.  Some  are 
under  the  care  of  physicians,  going  through  “  reg¬ 
ular  courses  of  medicine others  are  suffering 
from  neglect,  and  others  are  in  despair.  A  few 
words  of  counsel  and  cheer  to  the  many  of  these 
feeble  folk  among  the  readers  of  the  American  Ag¬ 
riculturist,  will  not  come  amiss,  at  this  cold  season 
of  the  year  which  is  so  hard  on  the  lungs.  Here  is 
counsel  of  one  who,  as  you  know,  has  had  long  and 
successful  experience  in  battling  with  this  disease. 

First,  then,  of  certain  things  to  be  avoided.  Avoid 
taking  much  medicine.  If  the  disease  is  recent,  it 
may  yieid  to  medical  treatment.  Give  the  doctor 
a  fair  trial,  but  if  after  a  reasonable  time  medicine 
does  not  reach  the  case,  dismiss  the  physician  until 
wanted,  and  fall  back  upon  the  powers  of  nature 
and  a  good  regimen.  The  long  protracted  tdking 
of  medicine  weakens  and  injures  the  stomach  and 
other  organs,  and  then  it  is  a  hard  matter  to  con¬ 
tend  with  disease  in  the  lungs.  Therefore,  avoid 
taking  much  medicine.  In  acute  attacks,  the  phy¬ 
sician  must  sometimes  be  called  and  his  doses  taken, 
but  when  such  special  demands  for  his  services  are 
past,  let  medicine  alone. 

Avoid  thinking  much  about  your  disease.  Be¬ 
ginners  are  apt  to  watch  their  symptoms  closely, 
to  count  their  pulse  daily,  to  scrutinize  the  charac¬ 
ter  of  their  expectorations,  to  weigh  themselves 
often,  so  as  to  see  whether  they  are  wasting  in 
flesh,  etc.,  etc.  Symptoms  should  be  looked  after, 
enough  to  enable  the  patient  to  take  care  of  him¬ 
self,  but  should  not  be  continually  thought  of.  To 
do  so,  begets  a  morbid,  unhealthy  state  of  mind 
which  will  react  hurtfully  upon  the  body.  Be  as 
self-forgetful  as  possible.  Bear  no  unnecessary 


burdens.  Think  of  anything  but  your  sjunptoms. 
Provide  some  kind  of  pleasant  amusement,  or  have 
some  light  business  which  will  fully  engross  the 
thoughts,  and  keep  the  mind  from  preying  on  itself. 

Avoid  excitement.  Nothing  but  experience  will 
teach  the  importance  of  tliis.  Avoid  all  passions, 
especially  those  which  depress.  The  excitement 
of  political  debates,  of  fashionable  parties,  all  agi¬ 
tations  of  fear,  resentment  and  anger — nothing  can 
be  worse.  Avoid  feelings  of  despondency,  do  not 
look  on  the  dark  side  of  things.  Cherish  an  equa¬ 
ble  frame  of  mind,  not  easily  elated  or  depressed, 
hoping  on,  hoping  ever. 

Avoid  taking  cold.  Of  course,  with  all  our  pre¬ 
cautions,  colds  will  sometimes  come ;  but  much 
can  be  done  to  prevent  them.  Keep  the  skin  clean 
and  vigorous  by  occasional  sponge-baths  and  the 
use  of  the  flesh-brush.  Wear  flannel  next  to  the 
skin  all  the  year  round.  Over  the  chest  ivear  an 
extra  thickness  of  flannel  or  chamois  leather.  (See 
engraving  and  description  in  October  Agriculhirist, 
1863.)  The  feet  should  always  be  kept  dry  and 
warm.  In  wet  weather,  overshoes,  removed  when¬ 
ever  going  in-doors,  are  better  than  thick  soles,  for 
the  latter  will  often  become  damp.  Be  careful  how 
you  cool  off  .after  becoming  overheated.  Beware 
of  damp  beds,  damp  concert  halls,  lecture-rooms 
and  churches,  and  carefully  .avoid  every  place  where 
there  is  direct  exposure  to  currents  of  wind. 

II. — Live  well.  Your  disease,  if  real,  is  draining 
the  fountains  of  strength  :  keep  the  fountain  well 
supplied  by  generous  food.  Use  every  means  to 
build  up  the  system,  and  to  keep  yourself  in  high 
condition.  If  you  can  not  expel  the  intruder  which 
h.as  got  fast  hold  upon  you,  keep  him  in  subjection. 
For  food,  eschew  delicacies,  and  chew  substantials. 
Put  aside  rich  gravies,  sweetmeats,  highly  spiced 
pies  and  cakes,  and  take  to  good  beef,  mutton, 
poultry,  fresh  fish,  oysters,  bread,  and  the  like 
honest  kinds  of  food. 

Exercise  in  the  open  air.  The  tendency  with 
pulmonary  invalids  is  to  yield  to  their  bodily  fee¬ 
bleness  and  their  weakened  resolution,  and  sit 
down  in  the  house.  This  tendency  must  be  resisted, 
or  the  invalid  will  surely  and  speedily  decline. 
Every  day,  exercise  twice  in  the  open  air.  Do  not 
be  afraid  of  the  weather.  Dress  warm,  and  then 
go  out,  rain  or  shine.  In  summer,  the  c.are  of  a 
small  garden  will  afford  pleasant  exercise.  In  win¬ 
ter,  w.alk  or  ride,  and  ride  on  horseback,  if  possible. 
The  saddle  is  better  than  anything  in  a  doctor’s 
saddle-bags ;  at  least,  so  thinks  the  writer,  after 
long  trying.  Agreeable  exercise,  every  day,  will 
be  quite  sure  to  give  you  a  good  appetite,  good  di¬ 
gestion,  and  good  spirits.  And  with  these,  you 
may  hope  to  keep  consumption  at  bay  a  very  long 
time.  Clericus. 

- - — «»«— - - - 

Books  in  Farmers’  Families. 


Many  farmers’  families  in  comfortable  circum¬ 
stances  are  almost  destitute  of  books,  and  the  chil¬ 
dren  .are  growing  up  in  ignorance.  No  one  should 
consider  his  house  furnished  until  it  contains  a 
libr.ary  of  at  least  twenty  to  one  hundred  volumes. 
When  this  is  once  supplied,  let  there  be  yearly  ad¬ 
ditions  to  it.  After  a  niiin  has  secured  his  farm 
and  stock,  why  should  he  not  devote  the  produce 
of  at  least  one  acre  each  year  to  the  purchase  of 
books  and  other  means  of  intellectual  culture  ? 
Let  it  for  the  present  be  an  acre  of  corn  or  wheat, 
and  in  the  mean  time  set  out  an  acre  of  choice  fruit 
for  this  particular  purpose.  Will  not  the  boys  and 
girls  be  very  ready  to  assist  in  the  care  of  the  edu¬ 
cational  acre,  when  they  see  it  really  brings  to  them 
promptly,  books,  pictures,  philosophical  apparatus, 
etc. — The  farmer’s  profession  is  really  suseeptible 
of  being  made  one  of  the  noblest.  Bring  intolli- 
genee  and  culture  to  the  aid  of  the  plow,  and  the 
smart  boys  will  not  all  desire  to  be  doctors,  law¬ 
yers,  and  presidents.  Let  the  God-made  country, 
vie  with  the  man-made  town,  in  the  march  of  mcnj 
tal  improvement,  and  its  superior  physical  attrac¬ 
tions  will  not  only  retain  its  own  best  population, 
but  draw  from  the  cities  many  who  prefer  the  town 
mainly  for  its  intellectual  and  business  advantages. 


German  Slippers  for  the  House. 

L.  L.  Fairchild,  Dodge  Co.,  Wis.,  W'rites  to  the 
American  Agriculturist  :  “  Economy  is  the  order 
of  the  day,  so  I  purchased  me  a  pair  of  wooden 
soled  slips  for  three  shillings,  at  a  “  Dutch  store.” 
The  soles  are  of  basswood,  about  an  inch  thick,  and 
lined  with  leather  and  cloth.  The  fronts  are  of 
calf  skin  secured  to  the  soles  by  a  strait  wire  run¬ 
ning  around  the  margin,  seeured  by  wire  staples 
driven  into  the  wood  sole.  When  I  come  into  the 
house  I  doff  my  boots  and  don  my  slips.  My  feet 
are  well  ventilated  and  kept  from  the  cold  floor  by 
a  good  non-conductor,  basswood.  They  are  easy  to 
my  feet,  easily  slipped  off  if  I  wish  to  take  a  siesta 
on  the  lounge  or  sofa,  and  the  thick  wooden  soles 
keep  my  feet  from  dampness  if  I  am  suddenly  call¬ 
ed  from  the  house.  In  short  they  are  every  way 
convenient.  My  boots  are  not  dried  up  or  burned 
by  trying  to  warm  my  feet  at  a  hot  fire,  so  tiiat 
they  give  a  good  account  of  themselves  by  a  few 
months’  longer  service.  I  recommend  my  econom¬ 
ical  friends  to  try  the  German  slips.” 

Practical  Odds  and  Ends. 

Sent  by  Subscribers  to  the  American  Agricultur¬ 
ist.  Please  send  plenty  more  of  the  same  sort. 

To  Light  a  New  Candle  Quickly.— Dip  the 
wick  in  the  melted  tallow  of  one  already  burning. 

Kerosene  Lamp  Chimneys  wide  .at  the  bulb  or 
lower  part  are  less  liable  to  break  than  if  narrow. 

Shavtng  Hint. — Suspend  the  glass  so  that  only 
the  part  of  the  face  to  be  shaved  will  be  visible : 
there  will  be  less  danger  of  cutting  the  skin. 
Season  :  a  sight  of  one’s  eyes  distracts  attention 
from  the  razor. — Place  the  mirror  where  it  will  not 
reflect  the  light  of  a  window  into  the  eyes.  The 
best  place  is  where  the  light  will  fall  upon  the  face, 
and  not  upon  the  glass. — When  done,  wash  off  all 
soap,  and  finish  with  a  little  diluted  vinegar,  or  al¬ 
cohol,  or  cologne  water.  This  will  neutralize  the 
effects  of  the  alkali,  preventing  it  from  chapping 
the  skin,  or  affecting  the  color  of  the  ivhiskers. 

Repelling  Red  Ants. — Try  setting  the  safes, 
closets,  etc.,  on  new  brieks  ;  a  subscriber  says  this 
proved  effectual. — A  sponge  with  a  little  sugar 
sprinkled  through  it,  will  attract  and  hold  hundreds 
of  the  insects,  which  may  be  killed  with  hot  water. 

Cast  Iron  Stoves  are  prefer.able  to  sheet  iron : 
they  radiate  heat  more  freely  and  equably,  do  not 
cool  off  so  quickly,  and  are  much  more  dur.able. 

Condensed  Milk  is  the  pure  article  made  purer, 
that  is,  with  a  large  proportion  of  its  water  ev.apor- 
ated.  It  is  preferable  to  most  milkmen's  milk. 
Each  consumer  can  add  water  to  his  liking,  grading 
it  from  the  cream  point  down  to  the  “sky  blue.” 

Peeling  Onions  is  tearful  employment.  A  lady 
says  it  will  be  made  less  annoying  by  putting  them 
in  cold  water  and  immersing  often  while  peeling. 

To  Color  Butter. — For  every  4  quarts  of  cream, 
gr.ate  1  middling  sized  carrot,  pour  on  it  pint  of 
boiling  w'ater,  let  it  stand  until  cool  and  strain  the 
liquor  into  the  cream.  It  does  not  hurt  the  flavor. 

Curried  Cabbage. — How  is  it  prepared  ? 

Poultry. — How  can  it  be  cooked,  spiced,  and 
canned  for  sending  to  the  army  or  elsewhere. 
Will  somebody  who  has  done  it  successfully  please 
give  necessary  directions  for  publication  ? 

Ckristoplier  Crowfield  on  Potatoes. 


Mrs.  Harriet  Beecher  Stowe  has  contributed  a 
series  of  “  House  and  Home  Papers,  by  Christo¬ 
pher  Crowfield,”  to  that  excellent  journal,  the  At¬ 
lantic  Monthly.  The  articles,  as  the  title  suggests, 
are  upon  domestic  economy,  and  convey  a  great 
deal  of  sound  common  sense  in  a  pleasing  manner. 
The  paper  for  December  is  upon  cookery,  and  con¬ 
tains  so  much  sound  doctrine  that  ought  to  be  read 
and  pondered  by  every  housekeeper,  that  we  wish 
we  had  room  for  the  whole  of  it,  but  as  we  luave 
not,  we  must  be  content  with  extracting  what  re¬ 
lates  to  the  common,  but  rarely  well  cooked,  potato  i 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


23 


“  A  good  roasted  potato  is  a  delicacy  worth  a 
dozen  compositions  of  the  cook  book;  yet  when 
we  ask  for  it,  what  burnt,  shriveled  abortions  are 
presented  to  us  !  Biddy  rushes  to  her  potato  basket 
and  pours  out  two  dozen  of  different  sizes,  some 
having  in  them  three  times  the  amount  of  matter 
of  others.  These  being  washed,  she  tumbles  them 
into  her  oven  at  a  leisure  interval,  and  there  lets 
them  lie  till  it  is  time  to  serve  breakfast,  whenever 
that  may  be.  As  a  result,  if  the  largest  are  cooked, 
the  smallest  are  presented  in  cinders,  and  the  in¬ 
termediate  sizes  are  withered  and  T.vatery.  Nothing 
is  so  utterly  ruined  by  a  few  moments  of  over¬ 
doing.  That  which  at  the  right  moment  was 
plump  with  mealy  richness,  a  quarter  of  an  hour 
later  shrivels  and  becomes  watery — and  it  is  in  this 
state  that  roast  potatoes  are  most  frequently  served. 

“In  the  same  manner  we  have  seen  boiled  potatoes 
from  an  untaught  cook  coming  upon  the  table  like 
lumps  of  yellow  wax— and  the  same  article,  the 
day  after,  under  the  direction  of  a  skillful  mistress, 
appearing  in  snowy  balls  of  powdery  lightness.  In 
the  one  case,  they  were  thrown  in  their  skins  into 
water,  and  suffered  to  soak  or  boil,  as  the  case 
might  be,  at  the  cook’s  leisure,  and  after  they  were 
boiled,  to  stand  in  the  water  till  she  was  ready  to 
peel  them.  In  the  other  case,  the  potatoes  being 
first  peeled,  were  boiled  as  quickly  as  possible  in 
salted  water,  which,  the  moment  they  were  done 
was  drained  off,  and  then  they  were  gently  shaken 
for  a  minute  or  two  over  the  fire  to  dry  them  still 
more  thoroughly.  We  have  never  yet  seen  the  po¬ 
tato  so  depraved  and  given  over  to  evil  that 
could  not  be  reclaimed  by  this  mode  of  treatment. 
“As  to  fried  potatoes,  who  that  remembers  the  crisp, 
golden  slices  of  the  French  restaurant,  thin  as 
wafws  and  light  as  snow  flakes,  does  not  speak  re¬ 
spectfully  of  them?  What  cousiuship  with  these, 
have  those  coarse,  greasy  masses  of  sliced  potato, 
wholly  sogged  and  partly  burnt,  to  which  we  are 
treated  under  the  name  of  fried  potatoes  a  la  Amer¬ 
ica?  Our  city  restaurants  are  introducing  the 
French  article  to  great  acceptance,  and  to  the  vindi¬ 
cation  of  the  fair  fame  of  this  queen  of  vegetables.” 


F’sjwmers’  Calcc. — Contributed  by 

Mrs.  E.  Smith,  Plymouth  Co.,  Mass.;  Soak  3  cups 
of  dried  apples  over  night  in  warm  water  ;  chop 
(slightly)  in  the  morning  and  then  simmer  2  hours 
in  2  cups  of  mol.asses.  Add  2  eggs,  1  cup  of  sugar, 
1  cup  of  sweet  milk,  %  cup  of  butter,  teaspoon¬ 
fuls  of  soda,  flour  to  make  a  rather  thick  batter  ; 
spice  to  suit  the  taste.  Bake  in  a  quick  oven. 

Saner  Kraut. — Contributed  to  the  Amm-i- 
ean  Agriculturist  by  M.  S.  Baldwin.  Cut  cabbage 
fine,  sprinkle  with  brown  sugar  at  the  rate  of  4  lbs. 
to  the  barrel.  Leave  out  salt,  which  may  be  added 
to  suit  the  taste  when  used.  Place  it  in  a  barrel 
and  pound  down  well  as  the  filling  proceeds.  It 
should  be  pressed  so  tight  that  the  juice  shall  cover 
the  cabbage.  It  will  be  fit  for  use  in  10  to  15  days. 


mY^  ^  ©urns'  '©©iLwniFfSo 

“  A  Happy  IVew  Year  ” 

To  all  the  Girls  and  Boys  of  the  Agriculturist  family. 
Including  the  grown-up  ones.  Hearts  need  not  grow  old, 
though  heads  whiten  and  hands  tremble  wilh  age.  None 
of  us  can  lift  the  curtain  which  hides  the  events  of  the 
year  1865,  but  if  we  start  with  the  purpose,  as  well  as 
the  wish,  that  the  year  shall  be  a  happy  one  to  all,  we 
need  not  fear  what  coming  time  will  bring.  Suppose 
that  every  reader  resolves  to  add  to  the  happiness  of  some 
one,  each  day  of  this  year  ;  there  will  be  not  less  than 
500,000  persons  benefited  daily.  It  need  not  cost  a  great 
effort  to  do  this.  There  is  John,  just  entering  his  fifteenth 
year,  and  grown  almost  as  tall  as  his  mother,  who  is 
p'oiid  of  her  manly  looking  boy.  But  John  begins  to 
think  himself  too  big  to  mind  his  mother,  and  that  it  is 
manly  to  answer  her  rudely ;  sometimes  he  contradicts 
'her,  and  he  is  also  disrespectful  to  ids  father  as  far  as  he 
dares  to  be.  If  he  knew  how  each  unkind  word  wounds 
flke  a  sharp  knife,  culling  down  to  the  very  heart  of  his 
parents,  he  would  here  discover  a  way  to  make  them 
happier  than  though  he  could  bring  them  bags  of  gold  and 


silver.  Will  you  try  it  John?  Resolve  that  from  this 
day  those  who  have  done  so  much  for  you,  who  love  you 
better  than  their  own  lives,  shall  have  only  pleasant 
words  and  ready  obedience.  Perhaps  this  will  be  good 
coun.sel  for  others  besides  John!  Mary,  it  will  please 
your  mother  if  you  will  think  less  of  dress  and  more  of 
duty.  Don’t  let  her  be  a  slave  to  liousework  while  you 
are  displaying  your  finery  at  balls  and  parties.  Perhaps 
your  little  brother  will  be  one  of  the  liappiest  fellows 
alive,  if  you  will  be  more  patient  and  loss  selfish  toward 
him.  In  short,  all,  both  young  and  old,  can  do  something 
toward  making  tills  a  pleasanter  world,  for  themselves  as 
well  as  others.  The  surest  way  to  enjoyment  is  through 
the  joy  made  for  others.  Whoever  has  the  will,  can  find 
many  ways  for  carrying  out  our  New  Veau’s  Rule; 

Make  somebody  happier  every  day  this  year. 

About  Keeping  tbe  Moattli 

Which  is  the  best  looking.  Fig.  1,  or  Fig.  2  ?  It  does  not 
take  long  to  decide.  The  one  with  the  lips  closed  ap¬ 
pears  more  manly,  intelligent  and  every  way  attractive. 
The  other  shows  a  man  who  lias  a  habit  of  keeping 
his  mouth  open,  which  spoils  the  expression  of  the  whole 
face,  and  makes  him  look  inferior.  Even  a  good  horse 
looks  better  with  his  lips  brouglit  together,  as  is 
shown  in  the  engraving  below.  A  ple.asing  counten¬ 
ance  is  a  valuable  card  of  introduction  everywhere,  and 
it  is  worth  some  care  to  keep  all  the  good  features  which 
nature  has  given.  The  habit  of  keeping  the  mouth  open, 
like  most  other  habits,  is  formed  early  in  life,  and  at  that 
period  it  is  easy  to  become  used  to  having  the  lips  closed. 


Fig.  1.  Fig.  2. 

Besides  spoiling  good  looks,  a  constantly  open  mouth  is 
unhcalthful.  The  air,  especially  in  shops,  houses,  and 
the  streets  of  cities,  contains  large  quantities  of  dust  from 
various  substances,  none  of  which  are  fit  to  be  taken  into 
the  lungs.  Fine  particles  of  wood,  charcoal,  cloth,  sand, 
iron,  glass,  and  numerous  other  articles  are  floating  in 
the  atmosphere  and  are  draw  n  in  with  every  breath. 
When  this  is  taken  through  the  nose,  very  tittle  except 
pure  air  goe.s  to  the  lungs.  The  other  matter  is  stopped 
by  the  mucous  lining  of  the  nasal  passages,  and  removed 
by  using  the  handkerchief.  Thro  igh  the  mouth,  the  way 
to  the  lungs  is  more  direct,  and  much  more  foreign  mat¬ 
ter  can  go  in  with  the  air.  Tlmso  who  work  in  manuf.ic- 
tories  where  dust  of  any  kind  abo  inds,  are  very  liable  to 
diseases  of  the  lungs  from  this  cause,  much  of  which 
may  be  prevented  by  the  proper  use  of  the  nose  in  breath¬ 
ing.  The  teeth  also  suffer  by  constant  exposure  to  cur¬ 
rents  of  air.  Observing  men  think  tliat  open-mouthed 
breathing  causes  much  of  the  toothache,  and  decay  of 
the  teeth  found  in  civilized  communities.  The  North 
American  Indians  enjoy  remarkable  health,  much  of  it 
no  doubt  from  living  so  much  in  the  open  air,  and  their 
simple  food  and  dress,  but  it  is  a  remark<able  fact  that 
from  infancy,  the  mother  teaches  her  children  to  keep 
their  mouths  cloEed,especially  in  sleep.  Mr.  George  Gat¬ 
lin,  the  noted  traveller  and  author  observed  that  when 
laying  their  “papooses”  down  to  sleep,  they  always 
drew  the  little  one’s  lips  close  together,  and  placed  their 
heads  in  such  a  position  that  they  would  not  readily  open. 
He  thinks  this  has  much  to  do  with  their  robust  health. 
The  death  of  an  Indian  child  under  ten  years  old,  is  a 
very  rare  occurrence  except  from  accident.  Mr.  John 


■  Wiley,  of  535  Broadway,  N.  Y.  City,  has  published  an  in¬ 
teresting  book  on  this  subject,  full  of  curious  illustrations 
by  Mr.  Gatlin,  from  v^hich  the  above  engr  vingsare  taken. 


Aii.swers  to  I®rol>Eems  and  Puzzlcf-i. 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
December  number,  page  349.— No.  108  :  Illustrated  Rebus 
This  has  been  almost  answered  by  scores,  and  correctly 
by  many.  The  proper  reading  is  ■  The  American  Agri¬ 
culturist, in  twelve  months,  gives  over  1,500  excellent 
and  instructive  articles,  or  more  than  ten  for  one  cent. 
What  can  be  cheaper!  Tens  of  thousands  answer, 
“  Nothing  !”...  .No.  109. — Mathematical  Puzzle. — As  but 
few  have  answered  this  correctly  .(their  names  are  nelo  w), 
we  give  now  only  a  clue  which  will  make  it  easier, 
viz  :  the  different  letters  employed  in  the  problem,  when 
properly  arranged,  give  the  name  of  a  noted  English 
statesman  of  the  present  day..  ..No.  110. — Historical 
Questions — Ansicers ;  1,  New  Albion.  2,  Sir  Francis 
Drake.  3,  in  February,  184S,  at  Columa  (Sutter’s 
Mills.)  4,  Lord  De  la  War.  5,  Verazzano,  who  named 
it  New  France.  6th,  1,670,  at  Detroit.  The  word  English 
should  have  been  European ;  the  French  settled  the 
State  ;  the  English  took  it  from  them,  and  ceded  it  to  the 
United  States  at  the  close  of  the  Revolutionary  war. 
The  following  have  sent  in  correct  answers  up  to  Dec. 
9:  Emma  Foss,  109;  Frank  Robbins,  107;  “  G.  D.  B.,” 
106,  107  ;  Minta  Beyea,  107 ;  Dick  and  Affa,  107  ;  E.  Pre 
vost,  107  i  Margaret  Thompson,  107  ;  William  H.  Jordan, 
107 ;  Ellen  F.  Taber,  107  ;  Elhelbert  Selden,  107,  Lucius 
S.  Keaton,  106  (by  an  original  and  ingenious  method)  ; 
Francis  M.  Priest,  106,  107 ;  G.  G.  Crowley,  106,  107  ; 
Frank  B.  Bourne,  107;  W.  Henry  Yates,  107 ;  Elvin 
Rees,  106,  107 ;  Lear  C.  La  Fetra,  108  ;  John  H.  Peck, 
108 ;  Date  Barrie,  108  ;  J.  C.  B.  Taylor  108  ;  H.  D.  Bar¬ 
tholomew,  109 ;  How'ard  Bowman  and  Earnest  Camp¬ 
bell,  108  ;  Stewart  Farquer,  107  ;  John  Thomas  Phillips, 
108  ;  William  A.  Coliins,  108  ;  Ebenezer  J.  Bridge,  108  ; 
Rebecca  D.  Bengless,  108;  Harry  Granger,  108;  F.  E. 
Milliken,  Harry  J.  Stone,  108 ;  Frank  H.  Willis,  108,  109  ■ 
Louie  R.  Bennett  and  Emily  J.  Beuiiet,  108  ;  R.  W.  Rob¬ 
inson,  108  ;  Thomas  Coulter,  108 ;  Julia  A.  Peabody, 
108 ;  Maggie  N.  Barkalow,  108  ;  George  W.  Peabody, 
108;  Ralph  M.  Mead,  109;  Thomas  Mullen,  108,  109; 
Edward  C.  Woodruff,  108;  Annie  C.  Green,  108;  J.  B. 
Daniel,  108;  Wm.  P.  Jones,  Jr.,  108 ;  John  C.  Welles, 
108  ;  Elma  M.  Faber,  108 ;  Henry  M.  Clayton,  108  ;  Jolin 
W.  Gaston,  108;  M.  B.  Eshleman,  108,  109;  “  S.  W.  P.,” 
109 ;  D.  G.  Jones,  109  ;  George  Mills,  108  ;  W.  M.  Isaac,. 
108,  109  ;  Frank  Hayward,  107  ;  Asahel  C.  Smith,  108  ;  H. 
L.  Hoguet,  108;  P.  Mason,  108;  Francis  M.  Priest,  108, 
109;  George  F.  Forbes,  108,  109;  “George  S.,”  109; 
Louis  A.  Arthur,  108;  Wilhelmina  Burgert,  108;  John 
Atwater,  109;  Wm.  H.  Allison,  108;  Fred.  Johnston,  108 
(read  the  notice  about  strawberry  plants)  ;  Andrew  W. 
Middleness,  109,  wilh  a  clear  explanation  ;  P.  S.  Libido, 
108,  109;  J.  J.  Gactschins,  108;  Hattie  Goffe,  108; 
Thomas  J.  Bead,  108;  “H.  M.  D.,”  ]0S,  110:  Israel 
Camp,  108 ;  William  H.  Jordan,  108,  110 ;  E.  J.  Bentley, 
108,  109  ;  George  M.  Clark,  108;  B.  A.  Root,  108. 


New  Puzzles  to  be  Amswere«l. 


No.  111.  Illustrated  Rebus. — A  beautiful  Sentiment. 

No.  112.  A  Curious  Word. — Try  to  discover  what  it  !•. 
There  is  a  word  of  plural  number 
An  enemy  to  peace  and  slumber  ; 

Now  other  words  you  chance  to  take. 

By  adding  “  S  ”  you  plurai  make. 

But  if  you  add  an  “  S  ”  to  this, 

How  strange  tiie  metamorphosis  ,* 

Plural  is  plural  now  no  more. 

And  sweet  what  bitter  was  before. 

No.  113.  Novel  Subtraction. — Take  three  letters  from 
a  word  containing  five,  and  leave  but  one. 

No.  114.  Question  for  Pla7!ters. — A  gentleman  pro 
poses  to  plant  a  vineyard  of  ten  acres.  How  many  more 
vines  can  he  plant  in  the  “  Quincunx  ”  than  in  the  square 
order,  provided  the  vines  are  set  six  feet  apart,  and  no 
vine  is  set  nearer  than  one  foot  to  the  edge  of  the 
field?  In  each  case  the  plot  is  to  be  square.  Please  give 
the  method  of  finding  tlie  solution,  wilh  the  answer. 

No.  115.  Mathematical  Proifem.— Suppose  a  circular 
field  to  contain  30  acres.  How  wide  a  strip  around  it  must 
be  added  to  enlarge  it  by  10  acres  ?  How  wide  a  stiip 
must  be  taken  to  diminish  it  by  10  acres  ? 


24 


AMKRTCAX  AORTCUT^TURIST, 


[Janttart, 


sexes  an^  all  ages  te 
skate,  anil  ponds  for  this 
purpose  have  been  pre¬ 
pared  near  most  of  our 
large  villages  and  cities. 
We  have  seen  clergymen, 
lawyers,  doctors  and  their 
families  enjoying  this  re¬ 
creation,  and  all  agree 
that  when  properly  in 
dulged  in  it  is  a  most 
healthful  as  well  as  pleas¬ 
ant  exercise.  It  has  11; 
dangers,  however,  against 
which  our  young  readers 
especially  should  guaru. 
Skating  should  not  be  al¬ 
lowed  to  interfere  with 
work  or  study.  Teachers 
often  say  they  dread 
smooth  ice  and  pleasant 
weather  ;  lessons  are  neg¬ 
lected  and  the  minds  of 
their  pupils  go  skating  ofl 
during  school  hours  ;  and 
not  a  few  mothers  have 
had  reason  to  complain 
liiat  their  daughters  found 
the  skating  pond  too  at¬ 
tractive  for  the  perform¬ 
ance  of  home  duties. 
Some  care  is  needed  to 
prevent  injury  to  health 
from  this  exercise.  Phy¬ 
sicians  report  a  large  in¬ 
crease  in  some  diseases 
in  winter,  since  skating 
has  come  into  fasiiion 
Avoid  great  exertion,  at 
in  racing,  by  which  the 
body  becomes  heated,  and 
then  suddenly  cooled  by 
the  keen  air  w  hen  the  ex 
ercise  is  over.  Never  sit 
down  out  of  doors  “to 
cool  off.”  A  friend  of  the 
writer  nearly  lost  his  life 
from  this  cause,  and  is  yet 
subject  to  a  troublesome 
throat  disease.  Keep  the 
mouth  closed  while  skat¬ 
ing.  Cold  air  freely  taken 
into  the  lungs  while  a  per¬ 
son  is  exercising  violeiit- 


I*  OR  TRAIT.  —  Engraved  for  ttie  American  Agriculturist 


TAKING  CARLO’S 

Sr>!SB«-4Jaaia*>-  AImjsiS:  Mts^iSsig-  l®ic;4Jsr«!9, 

As  onr  young  readers  look  at  the  beautiful  engravings 
which  are  |inblished  every  month  in  the  American  Agri¬ 
culturist,  do  they  ever  think  how  much  skill  and  labor 
are  required  tojnake  them  ?  First  the  artist  must  draw 
the  picture.  Usually  he  makes  a  sketch  on  paper,  and 
wiien  satisfied  with  its  looks  there,  he  copies  it  on  a  very 
smooth  block  of  wood.  Box  wood  is  generally  used,  be¬ 
cause  of  its  superior  hardness.  The  block  is  sawed  so 
that  tile  drawing  is  made  on  the  end  of  the  grain.  For 
large,  coarse  pictures,  such  as  you  see  on  handbills,  ma¬ 
ple  or  pine  may  be  employed.  Before  drawing  on  the 
wood,  its  surface  is  whitened  with  “  Paris  white  or  if 
the  block  is  not  large,  a  white  enameled  card  is  moistened 
and  rubbed  over  it ;  this  enables  the  draughtsman  to  make 
the  lines  clearer.  Next  comes  the  engraving.  The 
workman  uses  sharp  tools  like  very  small  chisels  of  dif¬ 
ferent  shapes,  with  which  he  carefully  cuts  out  all  the 
•arts  which  are  to  appear  white  in  the  picture,  leaving 
•  fie  dark  lines  raised  up  like  type,  to  receive  the  ink  and 
.take  the  impression.  When  finished,  the  block  is  put  in 
Ihe  press  and  printed  from,  the  same  as  from  types. 

It  requires  years  of  patient  practice  to  become  expert 
.0  either  drawing  or  engraving.  Some  are  naturally  so 
gifted  that  they  learn  very  easily.  The  boy  in  the  above 
engraving  appears  to  be  one  of  this  class.  lie  is  taking 
his  first  lessons  by  sketching  famiiiar  objects,  which  is 
ihe  best  kind  of  practice.  If  any  of  you  have  a  ta.’te  for 
drawing,  you  may  profitably  imitate  him.  It  wilt  tie  for¬ 
tunate  if  you  have  a  sister  so  willing  to  help  as  tlie  one 
who  is  here  kindly  keeping  Carlo  still  wiiile  his  portrait 
is  being  drawn  ;  but  kind  brothers  make  ple.asa.i  sisters, 
so  that  can  be  easily  managed  by  those  who  ha  »  sisters. 

Xlsi!  of  Ifiread. 

At  a  time  of  great  scarcity,  a  certain  rich  'can  invited 
twenty  poor  children  to  his  house,  and  said  to  them, 

*'  In  this  basket  there  is  a  loaf  of  bread  for  each  of  you  ; 
tjike  it,  HP  1  '•ome  again  every  day  at  this  hour  until  God 


sends  us  better  times.”  The  children  seized  upon  the 
basket,  wrangled  and  fought  for  Ihe  bread,  as  eacli  wish¬ 
ed  to  gel  tlie  best  and  largest  loaf ;  and  at  last  they  went 
away,  without  even  tlianking  him.  Francesca  alone,  a 
poor  but  neatly  dressed  child,  stood  modestly  at  a  dis¬ 
tance,  took  the  smallest  loaf  which  was  left  in  the  bask¬ 
et,  gratefully  kissed  the  gentleman's  hand,  and  then  went 
home  in  a  quiet  and  orderly  manner.  On  the  following 
day  the  children  were  just  as  ill-behaved  ;  and  poor  Fran¬ 
cesca  this  time  received  a  loaf  which  was  scarcely  half 
the  size.of  the  rest.  But  when  she  came  home  and  her 
mother  began  to  cut  the  bread,  there  fell  out  of  it  a  num¬ 
ber  of  bright  new  silver  pieces.  Her  mother  was  per¬ 
plexed,  and  said,  “  Take  back  the  money  this  instant ; 
for  it  has,  no  doubt,  got  Into  the  bread  through  some  mis¬ 
take.”  Francesca  carried  it  back.  But  the  benevolent 
man  said,  “  No.  no  1  it  was  no  mistake.  I  had  the  money 
baked  in  the  smallest  loaf  in  order  to  reward  you,  my 
dear  child.  Always  continue  thus  contented,  peaceable, 
and  unassuming  ;  the  person  who  is  contented  with  Ihe 
smallest  loaf  rather  than  quarrel  for  the  larger  one,  will 
find  blessings  more  valuable  than  money  baked  in  bread.” 

A  Words  to  SIcaters. 

The  word  “skate”  was  imported  from  Holland,  where  the 
schaat,  as  the  Dutch  call  it,  is  almost  a  necessity  in  win¬ 
ter.  In  many  places  there  they  have  canals  instead  of 
roads,  and  when  these  are  frozen,  m.arket-men  and  women 
with  their  loads  of  vegetables,  merchants  transacting 
their  business,  boys  and  girls  going  to  school,  and  almost 
all  foot  passengers  glide  swiftly  along  on  skates.  It  is 
probable  that  the  Dutch  first  learned  the  art  from  their 
more  nortiiern  neighbors  of  Norway  ami  Sweden,  where 
the  first  skates  were  made  of  the  shin  bones  of  the  deer 
or  sheep,  bound  upon  the  foot  witli  strips  of  skin.  This 
must  have  been  hundreds  of  years  ago,  as  mention  is 
made  of  skates  in  one  of  the  oldest  Scandinavian  poems. 
In  Northern  Europe  there  is  less  snow  than  in  this  coun¬ 
try,  and  skating  is  a  universally  popular  amusement.  In 
this  country  it  has  recently  become  fashionable  for  both 


ly,  may  produce  sudden 
and  serious  illness.  No 
sensible  boy  or  girl  will  under  any  circumstances  en¬ 
danger  life  by  venturing  into  known  danger  to  show 
bravery.  It  is  foolhardy,  not  brave,  to  skate  over  thin 
ice,  daring  others  to  follow,  or  to  go  because  others  have 
given  the  challenge.  Keep  your  courage  to  face  neces¬ 
sary  evils  and  be  brave  enough  to  bear  foolish  taunts. 

Umslerg-rosiBidL  IgaiSroacls  are  having 
a  trial  in  England  ;  not  the  sort  known  by  that  name  in 
the  United  States,  but  the  real  article,  with  track  and  cars 
complete.  For  one  without  a  locomotive,  a  brick  tunnel  9 
feet  high,  8  feet  wide,  and  nearly  a  third  of  a  mile  long, 
has  been  made  under  the  surface  near  the  Crystal  Palace, 
in  which  the  track  is  laid.  To  the  rear  of  the  car  is  at¬ 
tached  a  frame  w  ork  of  boards  forming  a  piston  nearly 
filling  the  tunnel.  The  space  between  its  edges  and  the 
brickwork  is  made  partially  air-tight  by  a  thick  fringe  of 
bristles.  Near  the  entrance  of  the  tunnel  a  stationary 
engine  drives  a  fan  wheel  20  feet  in  diameter,  which  forces 
air  into  the  tunnel  and  against  the  piston,  by  which  means 
the  car  is  driven  along  at  the  rate  of  26%  miles  per  hour, 
with  an  atmospheric  pressure  of  only  21  ounces.  A  some¬ 
what  similar  arrangement  is  in  use  in  London,  for  forcing 
packages  through  smaller  tubes,  by  exhausting  the  air  in 
front  of  the  piston.  This  is  the  first  attempt  to  carry 
passengers  underground  by  wind  power.  It  may  be  .suc¬ 
cessful,  but  the  prospect  is  dark,  at  least  to  the  passengers. 

A  Sharp  Customer.— A  teller  in  one  of  the  N. 
Y.  City  Banks  relates  that  one  of  the  depositors  made  a 
practice  of  bringing  considerable  uncurrent  money  on 
which  he  was  charged  one-tenth  of  one  per  cent  discount. 
One  day  he  gravely  informed  the  teller  that  he  had  found 
a  broker  who  changed  his  money  into  bankable  at  a  co.st 
of  only  one  eighth  of  one  per  cent,  and  insisted  that  the 
bank  should  do  as  well  by  him.  The  teller  accordingly 
agreed  to  take  the  money  on  the  same  terms,  and  the 
man  went  away  entirely  satisfied.— How  much  did  he 
lose  on  each  one  thousand  dollars?  He  was  probably 
of  the  boys  who  didn’t  like  his  arithmetic  at  school.  • 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


25 


Boys  a.iia  Chul'Is  in  Business. 

Thousands  of  subscribers  are  sent  to  us  every  year  by 
young  pej  ons,  often  by  very  little  boys  and  girls.  There 
Is  always  j  eculiar  pleasure  in  receiving  names  furnished 
by  these  young  voluntary  “agents.”  We  love  children, 
and  enjoy  talking  with  them  and  having  them  talk  with 
us — by  letter,  when  we  can  not  meet  them.  Our  title 
page  says  “for  the  Farm,  the  Garden,  and  the  House¬ 
hold  what  a  sad  ch.ange  it  would  make  to  strike  off 
the  last  word  ;  how  sober  the  great  Agriculturist  family 
would  be  if  only  grown  persons  weie  aamitted  ;  it  wohid 
be  like  a  field  without  flowers,  or  a  forest  without  birds. 
Our  children  and  their  Department  could  not  be  spared. 

But  there  is  another  good  reason  for  desiring  to  receive 
subscriptions  from  the  young.  We  like  to  see  little  girls 
and  boys  learning  to  do  business.  We  know  families 
where  each  child  old  enough  to  write  is  furnished  with  a 
little  book,  in  which  they  put  down  every  penny  received 
or  spent,  and  what  it  was  for.  This  teaches  them  the  use 
of  figures  and  how  to  keep  accounts.  It  also  makes  them 
more  careful  about  spending  money.  A  cent’s  worth  of 
candy,  etc.,  very  often  written,  does  not  look  well  in  the 
book.  Here  is  a  specimen  from  such  a  cash  account 
which  we  copy  from  a  book  kept  by  a  boy  of  eight  years  : 


1864. 
Dec  1 
Decs 


Mr.  Cash,  Dr. 


To  balance  from 

last  month . 

Money  from  Papa 
for  gathering  16 
bush. leaves.. 
Dec  3  Beating  Papa  in 

dressing . 

Dec  7j4  bushel  leaves  as 

I  above . 

10|  Weekly  allow’nce 


1  Mr.  Cash,  Cr. 

Dec  2  By  money  for  ball 

Dec  5 

Paid  yesterday  to 

Dec  8 

S.  S.  Missionary 

Society . 

Contribution  to 

“  10 

Soldiers  in  Hos¬ 
pital  . 

Admission  to  Mu- 

“  12 

seiim . 

Candy  bought.... 

All  the  money  received  is  put  down  on  the  Dr.  side, 
and  all  the  money  paid  out,  on  the  Cr.  side  ;  then  at  the 
end  of  the  month  these  columns  are  added,  and  the  bal¬ 
ance,  or  what  is  left  on  hand,  is  placed  at  the  beginning 
for  another  month.  It  would  be  of  great  service  to  every 
boy  and  girl  in  the  country  to  keep  such  an  account,even 
though  their  spending  money  were  no  more  than  a  dime 
a  year.  It  is  the  best  practical  way  of  learning  book¬ 
keeping.  And  so  in  soliciting  subscription.  Every  boy 
and  girl  who  engages  in  it  is  commencing  business  ;  is 
learning  the  art  of  persuasion,  of  setting  forth  the  proper 
merits  and  value  of  an  article,  and  these  are  qualifica- 
t'.Dns  for  business  pursuits.  Besides  this,  we  offer  fine 
premiums  for  clubs  of  subscribers,  as  noted  elsewhere  in 
this  paper,  and  some  of  the  articles  can  be  secured  by 
young  girls  and  boys.  We  have  sent  out  thousands  of 
such  premiums.  Look  over  the  list  and  try  to  obtain  one. 
The  effort  will  not  be  useless,  and  one  can  hardly  fail 
who  goes  at  it  with  the  proper  spirit,  determination,  and 
per-severance.  Few  men  will  refuse  the  request  of  a 
child  to  subscribe,  when  they  can  not  only  gratify  the 
young  canvasser,  but  at  the  same  time  get  something 
worth  more  to  them  than  its  cost.  Why,  the  beautiful 
picture  on  page  16  is  worth  more  than  the  cost  of  the  pa¬ 
per  half  a  year  to  those  who  study  it  enough  to  take  in 
all  its  meaning.  Let  our  young  friends  in  getting  sub¬ 
scribers,  take  this  number,  cut  it  open, display  its  beauty, 
its  pictures,  its  multitude  of  valuable  articles  on  various 
subjects,  and  they  will  find  many  who  will  want  this  and 
the  other  good  numbers  of  the  paper  to  come  this  year. 


Was  lie  Tipsy? — .4n  officer  in  Georgia  relates  the 
following  conversation  as  occurring  one  evening  in  the 
army:  (Artillery  Captain,)  “Corporal,  do  you  see 
that  light  yonder  ?  (Corporal,)  “  iTes  sir.  ”  (Captain,) 
“Can’t  you  train  your  gun  to  put  a  hole  through  it?” 
(Corporal,  looking  carefully  through  the  trees  in  the  di¬ 
rection  of  the  light,)  “  Why,  Captain,  that’s  the  moon 
just  rising.”  (Captain,)  “Don’t  make  a  dit  o’  bifference, 
put  a  hole  right  through  it !  ” 


Ood’s  Organ. — During  a  terrible  thunder  storm, 
the  scholars  in  a  country  school-house  gathered  round 
their  lady  teacher,  and  as  many  as  could  do  so,  buried 
their  heads  in  her  lap.  Presently  the  lightning  struck  a 
barn  near  the  school-house.  The  children  all  screamed 
but  little  Hattie,  a  sweet  four-year  old  maiden,  who,  turn¬ 
ing  to  her  sister,  said  in  a  clear  voice,  “  Don’t  be  fright¬ 
ened,  sister  Mary,  it  is  only  God  playing  on  his  organ. 


(Business  Notices,  $1.25  Cents  per  Line  of  Space.) 


From  the  Independent,  Oct.  27,  1864. — “  It  is  no 
part  of  our  business  to  advocate  the  merits  of  advertise¬ 
ments  in  our  paper  ;  but  having  used  Mr.  Pyle's  Salera- 
tus.  Cream  Tartar,  Soap,  Blueing  Powder,  etc.,  for  sev- 
iral  years  incur  families,  with  satisfaction,  we  feel  called 
upon  to  encourage  deserving  enterprise  by  directing  our 
readers  to  the  source  from  whence  we  think  their  house¬ 
hold  interest  may  be  best  served.  A  long  and  tried  ac¬ 
quaintance  with  Mr.  Pyle  gives  us  unqualified  confidence 
In  his  integrity,  as  well  as  in  the  quality  of  his  produc¬ 


tions.  He,  like  scores  of  our  citizens,  came  to  New- 
York  friendless  and  penniless,  and  by  persevering  honest¬ 
ly  has  attained  an  eminent  position  in  his  line  of  business.” 

Fasliions  and.  Firesides. 

A  neat  thing  for  the  ladies  to  look  at  over  the  family 
fireside  is  Demorest’s  “  Illustrated  Monthly  and  Mirror 
of  Fashions,”  containing  a  little  of  everything,  from  the 
latest  novelty  in  New  York  costume  to  the  latest  efl'usion 
of  the  American  Muse.  The  number  for  J.Tnuary  is  issued 
in  the  highest  style  of  pictorial  illustration,  together  with 
valuable  literary  contributions  from  famous  writers,  in¬ 
cluding  a  gem  from  a  popular  living  poet— N.  Y.  Tribune. 

§ometliing:  Wew— F®r  Every  Eady. 

THOSE  WHO  HAVE  TRIED  IT,  SAY  THEY  LIKE  IT. 

THE  SEWING  RIPPER  recently  invented  takes  out  a 
■seam  faster  than  a  sewing  machine  can  make  it,  with  less 
danger  of  cutting  than  by  knife  or  scissors. 

Try  ©ne. 

Price  Fifty  cents,  sent  post-paid  by  mail.  Reasons 
for  advance.  1st,  a  superior  article  is  furnished.  2d — At 
30  cents  they  will  not  pay.  Liberal  discount  by  the  doz¬ 
en.  Address  H.  LEE,  111  Fulton-st.,  New  York  City. 

P.  S. — The  admission  of  this  advertisement  to  the  busi¬ 
ness  columns  of  the  Agriculturist  will,  of  course,  be  con¬ 
sidered  a  sufficient  guaranty  to  the  Public  of  the  advertiser's 
responsibility  and  integrity. 

For  CougUs,  Colds  and  Tliroat  Disorders, 

use  “  Brown's  Bronchial  Troches,"  having  proved  their 


JANlJAlftY  WEMBEKof  the  2()th  Annua] 
Volume  of 

THE  HORTICULTURIST 

Is  Now  Ready,  and  contains  articles  from  the  Author  of 

“  My  Farm  of  Edgewood,” 

From  the  Author  of 

“  Ten  Acres  Enough,” 

From  E.  S.  RAND,  Jr.,  Author  of 

“  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden,’* 

From  A.  S.  FULLER.  Author  of  the 

“  Grape  Culturist,” 

Hon.  JOHN  S.  REID,  of  Indiana,  R.  BUCHANAN,  of  Cincln- 
nati,  and  others  of  the  best  practical  ability,  in  fruit  culture, 
gardening,  and  Rural  Art  pursuits. 

Publislied  monthly  at  TIVO  DOLLARS  per  annum. 
Vols.  1862,  1863  and  1864  bound  and  post-paid,  and  num¬ 
bers  for  1865,  SEVEN  DOLLARS. 

Send  Twenty  Cents  for  Jannary 
IVsimher,  post-paid. 

Geo.  E,  &  F.  IV.  Woodward, 

Publishers,  37  Park  Row,  New  York. 

FAY.” — Agents  Wanted  to 
-**•8611  How  to  Write,  Talk,  Behave  and  do  Business. 
$2.25.  Send  stamp  for  particulars,  to  MESSRS.  FOW¬ 
LER  &  WELLS,  .’<89  Broadway,  New-York. 


efficacy  by  a  test  of  many  years.  The  Troches  are  highly 
recommended  and  prescribed  by  Physicians  and  Sur¬ 
geons  in  the  Army.  Soldiers  and  officers  being  e.xposed 
to  sudden  changes,  should  always  be  supplied  with  "The 
Troches,"  as  they  give  prompt  relief. 

Holiday  Presewts  of  Affection 
and  Charity. 

■WHEELER  &  WILSON’S  HIGHEST  PREMIUM 


SEWING  MACHINES. 

No.  625  Broadway,  New-Yorh. 


See  Wheeler  &  Wilsnn's  Button-hole  Machine. 

PHmcE  &  c®’^ 

Patent  Meloedons  and  Organs, 

at  the  Old  Melodeon  Head  Quarters. 

Price  List  sent  free  on  application.  All  orders  and 
communications  should  be  addressed  to 

F.  P.  WHITING. 

No.  87  Fulton-st..  New-York. 

Rats,  Cockroaches  and  Rugs 

are  infallibly  exterminated  or  driven  away  by  Isaaosen’s 
Remedies,  and  they  leave  no  scent  behind, — so  says  Mr. 
Judd  in  the  American  Agriculturist.  For  rats,  mice  and 
cockroaches,  try  a  box  of  Phosplioric  Paste,  60  cents, 
large  size  $1.25  ;  for  bugs,  ants,  etc.,  use  a  bottle  of  In¬ 
sect  powder,  at  same  prices.  Send  to 

ADOLPH  ISAACSEN  40  Fulton-st,,  New-York. 
Principal  Depot  for  Cliicago  and  the  Northwest  at 
BURNHAMS  &  VAN  SCHAACK,  Wholesale  Drug 
Store,  16  Lake-st.,  Chicago,  Illinois,  Sole  Agents  for 
the  North  West. 


Heury  A.  fileiscr  &  Sous, 

NO.  44  PINE-STREET. 

Dealers  in 

GOVERNMENT  SECURITIES, 

BUY  AND  SELL 

QUARTERMASTERS’  CHECKS  AND  VOUCHERS, 
5-20  BONDS, 

1-YEAR  CERTIFICATES, 

7-30  LOAN,  .AND  EVERY  FORM  OF  U.  S.  SECU¬ 
RITIES. 

We  invite  the  attention  of  Banks  and  parties  desiring 
short  investment  to  oui  assortment  of  United  States  Six 
per  Cent.  Debt  Certificates.  We  have  them  on  hand  due 
in  every  month  of  the  year,  at  rates  that  pay  better  in¬ 
terest  than  any  other  security  in  the  market. 

For  sale — The  undivided  half  of  a  well  estab¬ 
lished  nursery,  near  Rochester,  N.  T.  Capital  required, 
from  $6,000  to  $8,000.  AddessP.O.  Drawer,  96,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

WANTED  1500  to  2000  Am.  Arbor  Vltse  Hedge 
plants,  2>i  to  3  ft.  'WM.  DAY  Morristown,  N.  J. 


INDIA  RUBBER  GLOVES 

Are  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands,  Salt  Rheum,  etc., 
and  an  excellent  protection  for  tlie  hands  in  Housework, 
Gardening,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1.50  for 
Ladies’ sizes,  $1.75  for  Gentlemens’,  by 

GOODYEARS  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 


Further  Contributions  to  the  American 
Agriculturist  Sanitary  Fund  for  Soldiers. 


FOR  U.  S.  SANITARY  COMMISSION. 


Names. 

Tlios.  Rusher . 

A.  Houffli . 

Lewis  Howe . 

Hiram  Schuyler . 

Caleb  H.  Merry . 

Janies  Herrick . 

John  L.  Sweet . 

Anderson  Francisco . 

County. 

State. 
...N.  Y.. 

Wm.  Voorhees . 

Jolin  N,  Vischerr . 

Wm.  Caster . 

U 

41 

Z.  H.  Barnev. . .  “  » 

E.  A.  Brown  .  .  . . 

II 

11 

Mrs.  David  Johnson . 

H.  B.  Brvan . 

James  Burnett..... . 

Mary  G.  M’olls . 

•I 

Lewis  Sheldon . 

1* 

Chas,  O  Newton . 

. Hampden.  ... 

...  Mass. . 

G.  G.  Merrick . 

T.  V.  Nichols . 

*  II 

John  Kuser . 

...  Pa.... 

J.  L.  Uussell . 

Elias  See  . 

....Mo... 

Mrs.  Asenath  See . 

*» 

A.  C.  See  .  “  “ 

E.  D.  Keilev .  ••  .  “ 

Geo.  Jeffries, . 

li 

11 

Jos.  Leyman . 

II 

Lemuel  C.  Lemone . 

II 

*1 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Lavmon. 

“ 

II 

Charles  McCray . 

II 

li 

Ransom  Ridjre . . 

I* 

II 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Kidsre.... 

II 

II 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Jeffries... 

II 

II 

Edwin  Snyder . 

*1 

li 

Mrs.  C.  H.  Balslev . 

•1 

14 

Mrs.  L.  E.  Adams .  •*  ..  •* 

Lucinda  I.  Cole . 

....Ind... 

J.  A.  Espy . 

....  Ill.... 

S.  P.  Mahwaring . 

John  Ollis . 

Henry  A.  Broad . 

. MeLean . 

•  1 

A.  B.  White . 

M.  Hildreth  . 

James  P.  Hebard . 

J.  F.  Hunt.  . 

Oscar  Sheldon . . 

....Wis.., 

And.  Frederickson . 

Alex.  Teller . 

M.  J.  P . 

. Pepin . 

II 

Tlios.  Mallalieu . 

....Md... 

Jarvis  Cable . 

....Cal... 

Mrs.  Veghte . 

...N.  J... 

FOR  U.  S.  CHRISTIAN  COMMISSION. 


..$1  01 
..  1  0« 
..  5  00 
..  S  00 
..  1  00 
..  S  00 
..  1  00 
.  b  00 
..  3  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  2  00 
..  3  00 
..  1  00 
..  3  25 
..  2  00 
..  1  00 
..  7  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  9  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  OC 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  .50 

..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  5  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  50 

..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  100 
..  1  00 
..  2  90 
..  1  00 
..  1  00 
..  50 

..  1  00 
..  1  50 
..  1  00 
..  5  OJ 


Mrs.  Beni.  P.  Stone . 

Michael  Ulrich . 

■Wm,  L.  Patterson . 

Mrs.  Miles  Joy . 

Mrs.  Ad.a  Blake . 

Mrs,  J.  N.  McGifl'ert... 

James  B.McGiffert _ 

IVm.  C.  McGiffert . 

Edgar  N.  McGiffert _ 

Maggie  C.  McCJiffert  .. 

Mrs.  veghte . . . 

Mrs.  Miles  .Joy . 

Geo.  Van  Riper . 

J.  F.  Canfield . 

H.  G.  Harrison . 

Mrs.  A.  M.  Lay . 

Mi.  Brinsmade . 

Myr.  Brinsmade . 

A.  R.  Durlin .  . , . . 


..Merrimack _ 

...N.  H... 

.  2  00 

.Lycoming . 

_ Pa... 

.  1  CO 

.  .Carbon . 

.  . 

.  2  58 

.  .Mercer . 

11 

.  3  15 

.  Litchfield . 

. Ct..  . 

.  5  00 

..Columbia . 

...N.  T... 

.  1  00 

. .  “  . 

1* 

..  1  00 

I* 

•1 

1  00 

II 

II 

.  1  no 

li 

II 

1  no 

..Somerset . . 

....N.  J... 

.  5  00 

.  .Wayne . 

,.  2  00 

..Cass . 

*1 

,.  1  30 

.  .Sangtinion _ 

....HI.... 

,,  2  0(1 

.  .New  Haven.. 

...Ct.... 

..  2  00 

I* 

1  00 

.Fairfield . 

I* 

1  00 

1  nr? 

.3  Sfi 

AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


rjANUAR?, 


Back  VoluMies  &  I^aiml>ers  Supplied. 

We  have  complete  sets  of  Vols.  16, 17, 18, 19,  20,  21,22,  and  23, 
cnbound,  and  bound  in  neat  covers  wUb  gilt  lettered  backs. 

Prices  at  the  office :  bound  f2.00 ;  unbound  $1,50  each. 

Back  Volumes  are  sent  prepaid  by  mail,  (t/iey  can  not 
go  unpaid,)  if  bound,  $2.45  each  ;  if  unbound ;  $1.74  each. 
Single  numbers  of  any  of  the  above  Volumes,  15  cents  each. 

Binding.— Sets  sent  to  the  office  'will  be  bound  up  neatly 
(in  our  regular  style  of  binding)  for  75  cents  a  volume. 

Pespakbd  Coveks.— Covers  for  binding,  neatly  made,  with 
title,  etc.,  gilt  upon  the  back,  ready  for  the  insertion  of  the 
sheets  by  any  bookbinder,  can  be  furnished  for  Vols.  16,  to  2S 
Inclusive,  at  45  cents  per  cover.  Covers  can  not  go  by  mail. 


Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFOKE  the  l®>th  of  the  preceding  month. 


W.  M.—JVo  Advertisement  of  Patent  jredicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parties  unknown  to  the  Editors  personal¬ 
ly  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  will  do  what  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  up  to  these  requirements,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves. 

TERMS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines),  $65  each  insertion. 

One  lohole  column  (14S  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  lino. 


JSaraisim’s  ISrcat  American  MHsemii 

Amiisentieiits  for  Old  and  Young, 

Mokal  and  Instructive,  all  that  is 
WONDEKFUL  AND  CURIOUS  IN  NATURE,  ANIMATE 
and  INANIMATE,  gathered  from  the 

Foer  lliiai’tcrs  of  the  Cclobc, 

MAY  HERE  BE  SEEN. 

In  addition  to  the  other  innumerable  attractions  have  just 
bsen  added 


CABINET  ORGANS 


IWCason  Sc  Hamlin. 

Respectfully  invite  the  attention  of  the  Public  to  the  fact 
that  the 

UWE<|UAI.EI>  KEPUTATIOW 

of  their  instruments  is  attested. 

1.  By  the  almost  ssmanimoas  opin¬ 
ions  of  clistimg'iiislied  Organ¬ 
ists  and  Musicians. 

More  than  fwo  hundred,  including  the  majority  of  the  or¬ 
ganists  of  .greatest  reputation  in  New  York,  Philadelphia, 
Boston,  Baltimore,  Cincinnati,  Chicago,  and  ottier  principal 
cities  of  the  Union,  together  with  nearly  all  the  very  eminent 
Pianists  of  the  country,  as  Gottsohalk,  'Wm.  Mason,  Milus, 
Sanderson,  Strakosch,  &c.,  &c.  ;  also  of  the  most  noted 
Musical  Directors,  as  Maretzkk,  Eichbuko,  Tdojias, 
Ferkahn,  &c.,  the  most  popular  composers,  as  Lowell  Ma¬ 
son,  Bradbury,  Root,  Hastings,  and  others ;  in  short,  in¬ 
cluding  a  great  majority  of  those  in  the  whole  country  whose 
judgment  is  most  valuable  in  such  matters,  have  given  their 
written  testimony  that  the  instruments  made  by 

Mason  & 

Excel  all  others  of  their  class. 

S.  By  tlie  a'W'artl  to  tliein.  of  tliirty 
Gold  and  Silver  medals,  or 
otlier  Pirst  Bremiiims 
witliin  a  ffew  years. 

These  have  been  from  the  principal  industrial  fairs  in  va¬ 
rious  parts  of  the  country,  at  -svliich  these  instruments  have 
been  exhibited  in  competition  with  instruments  from  all  the 


For  Thorough  Instruction  in  Vocal  Music. 

??  Singing :  an  Analytical  and  Prac¬ 
tical  System  for  the  Cultivation  of  tho  Voice.  This  work  is 
fi"  ^'S'diy  scientific  basis,  and  universally  admit¬ 
ted  to  b^e  the  most  desirable  work  for  teachers  and  scholars. 
Fur Abridged,  $8.08. 
snw  ^  post-paid.  OLIVER  DIT- 

SON  &  CO.,  Publishers,  Boston. 


Consisting  of  90 
lieautilul  copies  on 
cardboard  slips,  illus^ 
trated  by  60  cuts  and 
a  chart.  A  skillful 
hand  taiiglit  without 
I  teacliers  or  schools, 
I  Its  success  has  beer 
wonderful.  “Chaste, 
beautiful  and  simple. 
— N.  Y,  Evangelist. 
“  The  most  beautiful 

, -  and  scientific  of  sys- 

eaitor  has  pronounced  it-magnificeut,  and  worHi 
Y’  50.  —Jour,  and  Mess,  Splendid  terms  to 

PH'^iished  by  BABBITT  & 
WILT,  Fimeipals  ol  Miami  Commercial  College,  Dayton,  O 

ll^SHFULNESS,”  “  SENSITIVENESS,'’  and 
“DIFFIDENCE.”— Causes  and  Cure.— How  to  Pr& 
vent  and  ovei-come  them ;  given  in  JAN.  NO.  PHRENO¬ 
LOGICAL  JOURNAL.  20  cts.  by  first  post.  Please 
Address  S.  K.  WELLS,  S89  Broadway,  New  York, 

EstaMisIsed  in  1885. 

Volume  Of  HOVEY’S  MAGAZINE  OF  HOu- 
TICULTURE,  a  monthly  Journal  of  Horticulture,  Fieri- 
?1!  Landscape  Art,  commences  on  the  1st  of  Janu* 

my,  :s6o.  Terms  $‘2  a  year  in  advance.  Four  Copies  $6. 
Specimen  Nos.  iorwarded  on  the  receipt  of  20  cts.  in  stamps. 
■Address  HOVEL”  &  CO.,  Boston; 

MEKRYMAN’S  monthly,  a  large 

Magazine,  devoted  to  fun  and  recreation, 
40  to  90  illustrations  each  niontli.  Acknowl 
edged  to  be  the  best  and  cheapest  publica- 

_ of  the  kind  ever  issued.  gw-  Puzzle 

Department,  Prize  Rebus,  and  Valuable  Prizes  every  month. 

There  is  still  time  to  compete  for  onr  great  prizes.  In 
consequence  of  tlie  great  cost  of  paper,  &c„  and  expeisaive 
improvements,  our  terms  for  1865  will  be  $1  25  a  year,  but  all 
subscriptions  sent  in  this  month  will  be  received  at  $1  a  year. 
Sold  bv  all  ne'ivsdealers.  J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO.,  109  Nassau 
Bt.  N.  Y.  [Editors  ■wishing  to  X  will  please  send  a  paper.] 


Tlirce  Maisonotli  Fat  Girls,  weighing 
One  Tom  -  -  -  -  Boimfis, 

THREE  MONSTROUS  GIANTS 

OVER  24  FEET. 


best  makers. 

MASON  &  HAMLIN’S  instruments  are,  indeed  the  only 
ones  of  this  class  to  -which  a  Gold  Medal  lias  ever  been 
a-warded  in  this  country. 


PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS.—Progeny 
Hogs  that  liave  taken  State  and  United  States  Premlnm* 
sent  Ivy  Express  in  pairs  (not  akin)  to  all  parts  of  the  United 
States,  Canada,  Cuba,  and  South  America.  For  Circulars, 
prices,  &e.,  Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  (joatesville,  Penn. 


Tivo  Dwarfs  -  -  IS  Boiiuds  eacli. 
TO  THE  NATURALIST  THE  MENAGERIE  OF  LIVING 
ANIMALS  EXHIBITS  RARE  SPECIMENS  TO  BE 
SEEN  IN  NO  OTHER  COLLECTION. 

To  amuse  and  delight 
LADIES,  CHILDREN  AND  FAMILIES 
during  the  holiday  season, 

A  splendid  collection  of 

FRENCH  MOVING  FIGURES 


3.  By  the  mimeroiis  Imitations  in 
oilier  Manufacturers 
tlicmselves  liear  witness 
to  tlie  en-^'inlile  reputa¬ 
tion  of  tlie 


PURE  Whitefaced  Black  Spanish  fowls  shipped 

to  order  at  $4.00  a  pair.  Address 

LEWIS  ESSIG,  Canton,  OMo. 


Choice  and  Reliable  Seeds. 
SB.  K.  BMSS, 

SEEDSMAN  AND  FLORIST, 


consisting  of  Musicians,  Birds,  Fountains,  Ships,  Mills,  Rail¬ 
roads,  Steamboats,  Balloons,  Dancing  Ladies,  Performing 
Monkeys  and  a  tliousand  other  curious  Mechanical  Reprk- 
BHKTATtoJts  OF  ANIMATED  NATURE  lias  hecii  exprcssly  im¬ 
ported  at  a  cost  of  several  thousand  Dollars. 

O-KE-trA'-WA-KAS  Tribe  op  Indians  co-Mprisino  Chiefs, 
trABRiORS,  AND  Squaws,  are  engaged  and  represent  their 
habits,  customs.  War  Dances,  Scalping  Scenes,  &c. 

THE  BEAUTIFUL  AftUAKIA, 

or  River  and  Ocean  Gardens,  first  introduced  into  this  coun¬ 
try  by  Mr.  Barnum,  in  which  thousands  of  Rare  Fish  are 
Been  sporting  in  Crystal  Ponds,  aft'ord  an  entirely  new  pleas¬ 
ure,  alone  worth  twice  the  price  of  admission  to  the  Museum. 

Tlie  Dramatic  Eiitcrlaliimciits 

are  always  chosen  with  care. 

The  Advantages  of  Honesty  and  Virtue  are  vivid¬ 
ly  CONTRASTED  WITH  THE  MISERY  ENTAILED  BY  A  LIFE  OP 
Dishonesty  and  Crime. 

To  AFFORD  AN  OPPORTUNITY  FOR  Ladics  and  Children  to 
avoid  the  crowds  at  the  afternoon  and  evening  entertain¬ 
ment,  a  Performance  is  given  every  Morning  at  11 
O’clock,  at  which  time  no  extra  charge  to  Lecture 
Room  will  be  made. 

MoviBig-  Wax  Figures. 

Circassian  Girl,  Albino  Boy,  Living  Otters,  Learn- 


CABIMFT 

A  feiv  years  since  when  M.  &  H.  introduced  tlie  CABINET 
ORGAN,  no  instruments  of  this  class  in  the  country  were 
known  as-  Organs,  though  many  Harmoniums  were  made. 
Since  the  CABINET  ORGAN  lias  attained  so  wide  a  reputa¬ 
tion,  these  Harmoniums  have  nearly  all  changed  tlieir  names, 
and  are  now  presented  as  “Organs”  of  some  sort. 

The  public  are  respectfully  informed  that 

THE  CABIMET  ®KGAM 

Is  essentially  different  In  important  parts  from  all  other  Or¬ 
gans  or  instriiineiits  of  its  class.  Its  superiority,  which  is  so 
evident  to  musical  experts  as  to  elicit  the  almost  unanimous 
testimony  alluded  to,  arises 

1.  From  importa-nt  differeiices  of  construc¬ 
tion  wliicli,  toeing  patented,  can.  not  toe  used 
by  otlier  makers. 

2.  From  excellence  of  materials  and  perfec¬ 
tions  of  -workmansliip  in  every  detail. 

By  neither  of  these  exclusively,  hut  by  both  combined, 
the  excellence  of  the  CABINET  ORGANS  is  secured 


Spi'iiigjfield,  Mass., 

Would  respectfully  Inform  all  who  love  the  culture  ot 
Flowers  and  Vegetables  that  the  Eleventh  Edition  of  Ills 
SEED  CATALOGUE  and  AMATEUR'S  GUIDE  to  the 
FLOWER  AWB  KITCHEN  GARDEN— is  now  in 
press  and  rvill  be  issued  about  the  15th  of  January.  It  will 
contain  nearly  One  Hundred  Pages  of  closely  printed 
matter,  beantifiilly  illHStrnfed  |  with  a  descriptive 
List  of  upward  of  Two  Thousand  Varieties  of  Floiveb 
and  Vegetable  Seeds,  with  explicit  directions  for  their 
culture.  Also  a  list  of  the  choicest  varieties  of  SMALL 
FRUITS  witli  much  otlier  ^useful  information  upon  the 
subject  of  Gardening  generally.  It  will  be  mailed  post¬ 
paid  to  all  applicants  enclosing  25  cents.  Address  as  above. 


Tree  aiid  Fruit  Seeds  toy  Mfiil. 

Postage  1-2  Cent  per  Oz. 

Pear  at  $3  50  ;  Apple  and  Red  Cedar,  50  cents ;  Norway, 
Spruce  and  Yellow  Locust.  $1  50;  Holly,  $1 ;  Scotch  Pine,  $2 
50;  Balsam  Fir,  $3;  White  Pine,  $5  ;  Hemlock,  Spruce  and 
American  Arbor  Vit®,  $6— all  per  a.  Many  others  in  cata¬ 
logue.  THOS.  MEEHAN,  Germantown  Nurseries,  Pa. 


The  TRUE  CAPE  COD  CRANBERRY  for  Octo¬ 
ber  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  culture,  and  for 
swamps.  Under  my  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  bushels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  with  prices  of  plants,  'with  nursery 
catalogue  complete,  •will  be  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON.  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


BD  Seal,  Kangaroos,  a  Menagerie  op  50  other  Living 
Animals,  and  A  Million  of  Curiosities. 

Ailimissimi  30  cts.  Ctoildrcsmmrtci' 10, 1!5  cents. 


IP  KEEN’S  PATENT  ROOFING 

Consists  of  a  stout  Canvass,  impregnated  with  a  per¬ 
fectly  water-proof  and  incorruptible  compound,  covered  on 
both  sides  with  a  stout  fabric  made  water-proof  by  a  solution 
of  INDIA  RUBBER,  and  hardened  by  a  coating  of  PATENT 
JIETALLIC  PAINT. 

It  is  tlioroughly  WATER-PROOF. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  oil-cloth. 

It  makes  the  best  and  most  durable  READY  ROOFING 
ever  introduced. 

It  is  designed  for  DWELLING  HOUSES,  BARNS,  SHEDS, 
STEAMBOATS  and  RAILWAY  CARS. 

It  can  iie  laid  down  hy  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  CHEAPER  tlian  anv  known  ROOFING  OF  EQUAL 
DURABILITY. _ HENRY  SMITH.  No.  129  Pearl  st. 

WANTED  two  or  tlirce  good  Nursery  men.  Ad¬ 
dress  or  call  on  JOHN  WAMPLER.  Dayton,  Ohio. 

Farmer  wanted. — One  capable  of  taking 

charge  of  a  vegetable  farm.  English,  Scotcli  or  Gorman 
Breferrcd.  Address  F.  A.  STOW,  Troy,  New  York. 


Mason  &  Hamlin 

have  from  the  beginning  of  their  career  as  Manufacturers, 
made  it  a-n  invariable  rule  to  aim  at  the 

VERY  HIGHEST  EXCELLENCE 

in  every  respect.  In  their  factory,  economy  of  manufacture 
is  never  consulted  at  the  slightest  expense  of  excellence. 

Circulars  with  full  particulars  as  to  styles  and  prices,  and 
many  particulars  as  to  points  of  excellence  in  this  class  of 
instruments,  and  directions  for  selecting  them,  will  be  sent 
gratuitously  to  any  address. 

Salesrooms  1— No,  7  IfIercer-st.,Ne'w-'SrorIi, 
No.  2T4  Wasliington-st,,  Boston,  Mass, 

MASON  &  HAMLIN. 


CUTTINGS  of  tlie  GE^TJIWE  Wliite 
Willow,  for  sale  at  low  rates  in  large  or  small  quan¬ 
tities.  Address  M.  ALLEN,  “The  Willows," 

Mendota,  Illinois. 


MYWHOLESALE  and  RETAIL  PRICED  LIST 

of  Garden  and  Tree  Seeds  is  now  ready. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


BRUCE'S 

COI^CEMTIEATEO  FEItTIEI25ER, 

The  BRUCE  FERTILIZER  CO.,  under  the 
charge  of  Mr.  Duncan  Bruce,  continue  to  make  this 
valuable  article  for  farmers.  In  addition  to  the  large  per 
centage  of  ammonia,  it  contains  over  forty  per  cent,  of  Solu¬ 
ble  Bbne  Pbospbate  of  Lime,  equivalent  to  sixty  pounds  of 
Bone  to  every  hundred  pounds  of  the  Fertilizer.  Mr.  B.  has 
discontinued  tlie  use  of  gypsum,  as  it  was  found  to  give  too 
ranch  weiglit  without  a  corresponding  -value.  For  sale  by 
leading  dealers  in  Fertilizer  and  Agricultural  Wares.  TIi« 
trade  supplied  by  GEO.  E.  W  HITE  &  CO.,  56  Cliff-st 


1865 


AMERICAN  AGrRICULTURIST. 


37 


Agricailtwrist  Strawtoerry. 

Having  purchased  of  Mr.  Judd  his  entire  stock  of  plants 
for  sale,  of  this  most  remarkable  Strawberry,  we  are  prepared 
to  receive  orders  for  large  or  small  quantities. 

Circulars  issued  this  month  and  sent  to  all  applicants. 

J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


GREAT 

AGRICULTURIST  STRAWBERRY 

I  am  now  prepared  to  take  orders  for  plants  of  this  remark¬ 
able  variety,  to  be  delivered  in  rotation  as  ordered  in  early 
Spring.  One  of  the  original  plants,  from  which  my  stock 
has  all  been  produced,  was  exhibited  at  the  Agriculturist 
Office  loaded  with  enormous  fruit,  some  of  tlie  berries  weigh¬ 
ing  over  one  ounce  each.  Notwithstanding  the  remarkable 
production  of  the  original  plant,  it  last  season  showed  de¬ 
cided  Improvement.  I  exhibited  at  the  Office  of  the  Agri¬ 
culturist  in  June  last,  a  single  plant  but  ten  months  old,  with 
S24  perfect  formed  berries  on  it,  proving  that  it  is  not  only 
the  largest  but  the  most  productive  berry  known.  I  have  a 
large  stock  of  very  fine  plants  at  tiie  following  rates: 
2  plants,  $1.20;  6  plants,  $3.00;  12  plants,  $3.00;  100  plants, 
$23.00 ;  1000  plants,  $200.00. 

All  orders  addressed  to  WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

329  Green wich-st..  New  York. 


Agfricultural  College  of  Pennsylvania. 

The  Session  of  1863  will  open  on  Tuesday,  February  28th, 
and  close  on  the  second  Wednesday  of  December.  Students 
over  fourteen  years  of  age,  from  any  part  of  the  country, 
with  satisfactory  testimonials  of  ciiaracter,  are  admitted  at 
any  time  to  such  classes  of  the  Preparatory  School  or  Col¬ 
lege,  as  they  may  be  qualified  to  enter.  It  will  be  for  their 
advantage  to  arrive  on  the  day  of  opening  or  as  soon  after 
as  possible. 

The  full  course  of  instruction  will  extend  through  four 


FOR  S  A  ffi  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WII.L  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situated  in  tlie  comities  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  the  line  of  the  Raritan  niul  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-York  and  Philadelphia,  at  $10  per  acre. 
In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm,  these  lands 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  swee.t  potatoes,  peach¬ 
es,  grapes,  tobacco  and  hops.  All  crops  ripen  ten  days  ear¬ 
lier  than  on  Long  Island.  Squankum  marl  is  delivered  at 
any  point  on  the  railroad  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per 
ton,  and  fertilizes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  applica¬ 
tion.  The  lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber, 
suitable  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  tlie  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  olf,  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100,  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  qr  antity  of  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  tlie  "manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  witliin 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  The  whole  purchase  money  may  re¬ 
main  on  mortgage  for  a  term  of  years  if  desired,  if  the  pur¬ 
chaser  cultivates  the  land. 

For  furtlier  particulars  applv  to 

F.  B.  CHRTWOOD.  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O.  GILES.  70  &  Franklin-st.,  New-York. 


TO  OWNERS  OF  FARMS  and  country  resi¬ 
dences.  One  of  the  best  plans  to  sell  is  to  register  your 
property  for  sale,  with  the  price,  terms,  how  far  depot,  &c., 
with  J.  Q  .  FOWLER,  No.  77  Cedar  street,  New-Y’ork;  and  if 
you  want  to  purchase,  is  the  very  best  place.  Is  giving  his 
special  attention  to  buying  and  selling  country  property. 
Will  attend  to  the  advertising  and  selling  of  all  property  that 
is  to  be  sold  at  auction.  ♦!.  Q.  FOWLER, 

Auctioneer  and  Real  Estate  Dealer, 

77  Cedar-st.,  New-York. 


“MAMYf.AMP  FAHMS.” 

We  are  agents  for  the  sale  of  nearly 


Arthur's  Jffagnzlne  deservedly  enjoys  the  reputation  of 
being  one  of  the  best  moral  literary  Magazines  published  in 
America.— Coburg  Sentinel,  C.  W. 

Arthur’s  Home  Magazine, 

Edited  by  T.  S.  AKTtiun  and  Vikginia  F.  Townsend. 

The  HOME  MAGAZINE  for  1865  will  be  enlarged  and  im¬ 
proved.  and  made  still  more  worthy  of  tlie  eminent  favor 
with  wliich  it  lias  been  received.  Its  char.acter  as  a  HIGH- 
TONED  PERIODICAL,  claiming  public  favor  on  the  ground 
of  real  merit,  will  be  carefully  maintained;  while  for  variety. 
Interest,  usefulness,  and  all  tlie  .attr.actions  of  literatnre  and 
art  essential  to  a  true  Home  Magazine,  the  publisliers  will 
aim  to  make  it  SUPEItlOR  TO  ALL  OTHERS. 

A  FINE  Steel  Engt.aving.  and  two  pages  of  Music,  will 
appear  in  every  nninher,  besides  ciioice  pictures,  groups  and 
characters,  prevailing  fasliions,  and  a  large  variety  of  pat¬ 
terns  for  garments,  emliroidery,  etc.,  etc.  In  all  respects 
we  shall  give  A  FIRST-CLASS  jlAGAZINE,  at  a  price  with¬ 
in  the  reacli  of  every  intelligent  family  in  the  land. 

A  new  story  by  T.  S.  ARTHUR  will  he  commenced  in  the 
January  number. 

Teap.lt  Tep.ms,  in  Advance.— One  copy,  $2.50;  three  cop¬ 
ies,  $6,00;  five  copies,  and  one  to  the  getter-up  of  club,  $10.00; 
nine  copies,  and  one  to  getter-up  of  clnh,  $1.5.00. 

[5^  A  beautiful  PREMIUM  PLATE,  entitled  “THE  IN¬ 
FANCY  OF  SHAKSPEAKE,”  will  he  mailed  to  each  per.«on 
who  sends  ns  a  ciuh  of  snhscritiers.  It  will  also  lie  mailed 
to  each  single  subscriber  from  whom  we  receive  $2..50. 

ICW"  For  $1.50  rve  will  send  one  copv  eacli  of  Home  Maga¬ 
zine  and  Godey’s  Lady’s  Book  for  a  year. 

Address  T.  S.  APvTHUR  &  CO., 

323  Walnut-street,  Pliiladelphia. 


HUMAN  HEAD.”— A  Poem  by  Wil 
M.  liam  Ross  AVallace.  Phrenology,  in  the  Encyclo¬ 
pedia  Britannica.  Eflects  of  Mind  on  the  l^ody.  “  ilade 
Whole  by  Faith.”  Vagaries  of  Self-Esteem.  Plirenology  in 
Scotland,  in  Jan.— douhle~No.  Phrenological  Journal. 


Messrs,  fowler  &  wells,  No.  389  Broad- 

way,  have  all  works  on  “  Piionogp.apiiy,”  “  Hydro¬ 
pathy,’’  Phrenology,  Physiology,  Anatojiy,  Mcdiciiie- 
Meclianism.  and  the  Natural  Sciences  generallv.  Also,  Plio- 
tographic  Views,  Albums,  I’ortraits.  Busts,  Microscopes,  etc. 


66^0LD  FEET”— HOT  HEADS”— Rules  for 
^  '  regulating  them— Had  Smells— How  to  prevent  tliem. 
Mental  Hvgiene.  Had  Hreatli— Are  we  Deterioriatlng  ?— Tlie 
Wild  or  Wolf  Man  of  tlie  Forest— in  Jan.— double  No. — 
PHRENOLOGICAL  .lOUltNAL— 20  cents,  or  $2  a  year. 


years  and  include  the  English  Language,  and  Literature, 
Military  Tactics,  Logic,  Rhetoric,  History,  Political  Econo¬ 
my,  Mental  and  Moral  Philosophy,  Agricultufel,  Constitu¬ 
tional  and  International  Law,  Natural  Theology.  Evidences 
of  Christianity,  Mathematics,  Mechanics,  Astronomy,  Agri¬ 
cultural  Engineering,  and  Geodesy,  Botany,  Entomology, 
Zoology,  Anatomy,  Animal  and  Vegetable  Physiology,  Vet¬ 
erinary  Practice,  Cliemistry  with  its  Applications  to  Agricul¬ 
ture,  and  the  Meclianic  Arts,  Mineralogy,  Geology,  Pliysical 
Geography,  Scientific  and  Practical  Agriculture,  Horticul¬ 
ture  and  Arboriculture. 

The  College  is  ten  miles  from  Bellefonte,  In  Centre  County, 
and  may  be  reached  by  tlie  Pennsylvania  Railroad  to  Ty 
rone,  or  by  the  Sunbury  and  Erie  to  Lock  Haven,  and  from 
Tyi-one  or  Lock  Haven  by  the  Bald  Eagle  V.alley  Railroad 
•«  Bellefonte,  and  thence  by  stage  or  livery  conveyance. 

The  charge  for  Board,  Washing,  Room  rent.  Fuel,  and 
Tuition  is  $200  for  the  Session  of  ten  montlis,  payable  one 
half  In  advance,  and  the  other  half  on  the  first  of  July. 

Every  Student  is  required  to  work  on  the  farm  tliree  liours 
daily,  and  should  have  an  extra  suit  of  clotliing  adapted  to 
tlie  work. 

Students  are  supplied  by  the  College  witli  single  bedsteads, 
mattresses,  and  bolsters.  They  will  supply  tliemselves  with 
a  pillow  and  bed  clotliing.  ' 

For  further  information,  or  Catalogue  for  1864,  address  the 
undersigned,  or  Prof.  J.  S.  WHITMAN,  Agricirltural  Col¬ 
lege,  Centre  County,  Penn. 

WM.  H.  AI.I.EiV,  President. 


THE 

Reciprocity  Mining  Co., 

Cbaiidicre  District,  Canada  East. 


OFFICEBS; 

«x-Gov.  JAMES  POLLOCK. Director  U.  S.  Mint,  Phila. 

Hon.  W.  G.  MOORHEAD . Prest.  Phila.  &  Erie  R  R.  Co. 

0.  B.  WRIGHT,  Esq, . Of  C.  B.  Wright& Co..  Bankers. 

HENRY  SHELDON,  Esq . Of  Stanton.Sheldon  &  Co.,N.T. 

W.  B.  HATCH,  Esq . Of  Fairbanks  &  Co.,  N.  Y. 

T.  B.  BUNTING.  Esq . Of  T.  B.  Bunting  &  Co.,  N.  Y. 

L.  E.  CHITTENDEN . Late  Register  UT  S.  Treas’y. 

100,000  Shares  Par  Value  $50  each. 
SuhscriptiosiL  Price  $30. 

Property  14,770  Acres,  all  known  to  be 
rich  in  Gold. 

The  present  issue  of  Stock  is  limited  to  Twenty  Thousand 
Shares,  and  will  constitute  a  Preferred  Stock.  All  divi¬ 
dends  are  to  be  declared  and  paid  upon  these  shares  alone, 
until  the  amount  so  divided  sliall  equal  the  full  amount  paid 
In  by  the  subscribers  thereto,  after  wliich  they  will  partici¬ 
pate  In  all  future  profits  equally  with  any  portion  of  the  re- 
maing  shares  that  may  be  issued. 

Thirty  dollars  per  share  entitles  the  snhscribors  to  the  pre¬ 
ferred  stock  to  certificates  for  full  paid  shares  of  $50  each, 
the  balance  of  the  20,000  shares  may  be  subscribed  for  at  the 
Company’s  Office,  or  at  the 

OFFICE  OF  FISK  &  HATCH, 

BANKERS  FOR  THE  COMPANY,  No.  38  WALL-STREET. 

L.  E.  CHITTENDEN,  President. 


Fowr  Miiiidreil  Farms 

in  this  State.  A  printed  list  of  them  can  be  obtained  by 
sending  postage  stamp  to 

II.  W.  TEMPLEMAN  &  CO., 

No.  48  Lexington-st.,  (up  stairs)  Baltimore  City,  Md. 


The  Best  and  Cheapest  Farming 

LANDS  IN  TIIE  WHOLE  WEST,  ARE  THOSE  OF 
NORTHERN  MISSOURI. 

Kebels  are  moving  away  and  are  selling  for  whatever  they 
can  get.  An  extensive' immigration  from  tlie  Nortlicrn 
States  and  from  Europe  already  begun,  will  soon  occupy  that 
part  of  the  State  and  develop*  its  immense  natural  wealth. 
Free  and  full  Information  "iven  on  application  to 

ELI  Til  rVYEll,  1  Park  Place,  New-York. 


For  sale  at  a  bargain— a  farm  con- 

taining  80  Acres.  60  under  fence,  20  Acres  young  Timher, 
Dwelling  Bouse  and  Barn,  H  niile  from  K.  IL  station  and 
Village,  fronting  a  Turnpike,  onlv  50  dollars  per  acre. 

J.  H.  COl'FlN,  Franklinville,  N.  J. 


FARIVl  20,000 

^Acres  at  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms.— Frank- 
linville  Tract. — Gloucester  County,  New.Tersey,  2.7  miles 
soHth  of  Philadelphia,  on  Kailroad  running  from  Philadel¬ 
phia  and  Camden  to  Cape  In  lots  to  suit  purchasers. 

Circulars  with  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  lion.  Wm.  Parry, 
and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  free  hv  addressing 
JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO.,  Franklinville,  New-Jersey.  Also 
Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


THE 

AFO  THEIRS’ 

JOURNAL, 

AND  FAMILY  VISITANT, 


Is  a  Monthly  Magazine  for  Mothers  and  the  Household.  AVith 
notliing  light  or  trashy,  it  is  practical  in  purpose,  substantial 
in  matter,  attractive  in  style.  To  aid  Mothers  in  their  noble 
but  difficult  work,  and  to  make  tlie  household  healthy,  hap¬ 
py,  useful,  and  good,  is  the  object  of  the  Journal.  One 
Dollar  and  a  half  a  year.  P’ivc  copies  $7.  Single  Numbers, 
Fifteen  CentH  eacli.  Sent  free  to  Clergymen  who  circulate 
It  in  their  congregations.  Some  are  wanted  in  every  Church, 
Town,  and  Village,  to  get  up  a  Club.  Direct  to  MOTHERS’ 
JOURNAL,  335  Broadway,  New-lTork. 


Meav  illustrated  annual  of  phre¬ 
nology  AND  PHYSIOGNOMY,  for  1865,  with  “SIGNS 
of  CHARACTER.”  Tlie  Five  Races  of  Man;  Forty  engrav¬ 
ings  and  an  Almanac  for  100  years.  Newsmen  have  it.  By 
first  post,  12  cts.  Address  Messrs.  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389 
Broadway,  New  Y’ork. 


■HJ  ASHFULNESS,  Diffidence,  Sensitiveness. — 
-fi-®Causcs  and  Cure.  Why  arc  vou  timid  and  embarrassed  H 
How  to  acquire  confidence.  Sec  Jan.— double— No.  Illus¬ 
trated  Phrenological  Journal,  only  20  cents,  by  first  post. 
Address  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New  York. 


¥  INELAND  LANDS— TO  ALL  WANTING 

FARMS.— Large  and  thriving  settlement,  mild  andhealtli- 
fill  climate,  30  miles  south  of  Philadelphia  by  railroad.  Rich 
soil  which  produces  large  crops,  which  can  now  he  soon 
growing.  Ten,  twenty  and  fifty  acre  tracts  at  from  $25  to  $35 
per  acre,  pavahle  within  four  years.  Good  business  openings 
for  manufactories  and  others:  cliurches,  schools  and  good 
society.  It  is  now  tlie  most  improving  place  East  or  West. 
Hundreds  are  settling  and  building.  The  beauty  with  whicli 
the  place  is  laid  out  is  unsurpassed.  Letters  answered.  Pa¬ 
pers  containing  reports  and  giving  full  information  will  be 
sent  free  Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  Post-Ofiice, 
Cumberland  Co.,  N.  J.  From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson, 
Agricultural  Editor  of  The  Tribune:  It  is  one  of  the  most 
extensive  fertile  tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suit¬ 
able  condition  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of,  this 
side  of  tlie  Western  Prairies. 


r|iHE  MODEL  MAGAZINE  OF  AMERICA. 

©EMOISEST’S 

ILLUSTRATED  .MONTHLY  and  Mme.  DEMOREST’S 
MIRROR  OF  F.\SHIONS.  25  cents  ;  j'early,  with  valuable 
premiums,  $3.  Novelties  in  every  department,  orijtinal  sto¬ 
ries,  poetry,  fashionable  music,  useful  recipes,  and  the  latest 
fashions.  The  brilliant  January  number  now  ready.  Speci¬ 
men  copies  mailed  free  on  receipt  of  the  price.  Office  39 
Beekman-street. 


|:nREATEST  WARRIORS  of  the  WORLD.— 
Hannibal,  Cassar,  Pizarro,  Charles  XII.,  Frederic  the 
Great,  Cromwell,  Wellinston.  Napoleon.  Scott,  &c.,  in  the 
Jan.  Pictorial  Double  No.  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL. 
20  cents.  Newsmen  have  it.  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  N.  Y. 


fJHTSIOGNOMY  ILLUSTRATED.”— Alex- 
andra,  Princess  of  Wales,  Miss  Sally  Muggins,  Miss 
Fury,  and  Florence  Nightingale— with  “SIGNS  ()FCHAIi- 
ACTER,”  and  how  to  read  them  in  Jan.— double— No.  PHRE¬ 
NOLOGICAL  JOURNAL,  20  cents,  or  $2  a  year.  Address 
Messrs.  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New  York. 


The  franklin  almanac  and  diary  for 

1865,  is  now  ready.  Price  35  cts.  a  copy ;  ten  copies  $3.00, 
eighteen  copies,  $5.  Sent  by  mail  postage  paid  on  re¬ 
ceipt  OP  Price.  Multitudes  who  annually  buy  this  exceed¬ 
ingly  valuable  work,  say  they  would  not  be  without  it  for 
FITB  TIMES  ITS  COST.  Address  all  letters  to  the  Publisher, 
B.  F.  SANFORD,  Cincinnati,  Ohio. 


Marrying  for  show — in  Love  with  the 

Parson— Mrs.  Grundy  and  Our  Girls— American  V.  S.— 
European  Ladies  and  Etiquette- Home  Courtesies— Family 
Intercourse— Hints  to  Husbands  and  Wives,  in  Jan.— double 
No.  Pictorial  rflRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL. 


STRANGE  STORY. 

A  STRANGE  STORY. 

A  STRANGE  STORYL 
BEADLE’S  NEW  DIME  SERIES. 
BEADLE'S  NEW  DIME  SERIES. 
BEADLE’S  NEW  DIME  SERIES. 
LARGE  OCTAVO  FORM-DOUBLE  COLUMNS. 
LARGE  OCT.YVO  FORM-DOUBLE  COLUMNS. 


THE  MARKED  BULLET, 

THE  MARKED  BULLET, 

THE  MARKED  BULLET, 

THE  MARKED  BULLET, 

A  TALE  OF  THE  EARLY  OHIO  SETTLEMENTS. 

A  TALE  OF  THE  EARLY  OHIO  SETTLEMENTS. 
One  of  the  most  c-uptivating  books  of  the  day  is  tiie  first 
issue  of  Beadle’s  new  Dime  Octavo  Series,  viz. : 

THE  MARKED  BULLET, 

A  Romance  of  the  Settlements,  as  full  of  mystery  as  Bulwer’s 
celebrated  “  Strange  Story  ”  itself;  and  so  refreshing  in  its 
delineation  ot  backwoods  life  as  to  reiidei  it  enjoyable  In 
every  line. 

Sold  generally  by  newsdealers,  or  sent,  post-p.aid,  on  re 
ceipt  of  price— TEN  CENTS.  Address 

BEADLE  &  CO.,  Publishers. 

No.  118  William-st.,  New-York. 


SUPERSTITIONS,  SIGNS,  WONDERS  and 

^  TOKENS.— All  the  popular  notions  about  the  Moon, 
Weather.  Itching  Ears,  Hands  and  Feet,  Cutting  Finger 
Nails,  Looking  Glass,  Salt  Cellar,  Dish  Clotli,  Shoes;  Sneez 
Ing,  Bridal  Dresses,  Alarriagc,  Fairie.s,  etc.,  in  ,Tan.— double — 
No.  PICTORIAL  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL.  20  cents, 
by  first  post.  Newsmen  have  it. 

FOWLER  &  WELLS,  N.  Y. 


38 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[  Ianuart, 


New  Work  by  the  Author  of 
‘‘My  Farm  of  Edgewood,”  &c. 

C.  S.  SCRIBNER,  124  Grand  st.,  New  York,  lias  now  ready 

Wet  Days  at  Edgewood. 

1  Vol.  12mo.  Rrice  $2.00. 

This  work  gives  a  brief  survey  of  the  whole  subject  of 
Agricultural  and  Rural  Literature  down  to  the  present 
century,  and  abounds  witli  pastoral  gems  from  the  Poets, 
thrown  in  by  way  of  Interlude. 

By  genial  and  acute  criticism  and  appropriate  extracts, 
the  reader  is  brought  face  to  face  with  tlie  olden  worthies 
of  the  Agricultural  world— smiles  at  their  quaint  pecu¬ 
liarities,  and  learns  to  appreciate  the  practical  wisdom 
they  display,  though,  perchance,  in  an  uncouth  garb. 

The  work  is  unique  in  our  literature,  and  throws  round 
a  familiar  subject  a  halo  of  scholarship  and  poetical  feeling 
with  a  singularly  attractive  result. 

No  country  resident  should  be  without  this  resource 
for  his  “Wet  Days,"  that  the  writer  found  so  efl'ectual  in 
dispelling  the  tedium  of  a  rainy  season. 

It  forms  a  very  natural  complementary  volume  to  the 
“  Farm  of  Edgewood,”  by  the  same  author. 

Also  a  New  lildition  of 

“  My  Farm  of  Edgewood,”  1  Vol.  $2.00. 

Copies  sent  by  Mail  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  price. 

IN  EVERY  COUNTY 

IN  THE 

liOYAL  STATES. 

rwiO  SELL  BY  SUBSCRIPTION  a  work  intenselj- 

interesting  and  very  popular,  entitled  THE  INDIAN 
RACES  OF  NORTH  AND  SOUTH  AMERICA,  including 
an  acount  of  the  Sioux  Massacre  in  Minnesota,  written  by 
Hon.  J.  T.  Headley.  This  work  is  well  adapted  to  the  wants 
of  tlie  masses,  and  is  destined  to  meet  with  a  large  sale.  For 
particulars  apply  to  or  address 

HURLBUT,  SCRANTON  &  CO. 

No.  148  Asylum-st., 

Hartford,  Conn. 

Agents  will  please  state  their  address. 


U 


Books  toy  ISeturn  Mail.” 


Any  Book,  Map,  Chart,  Portrait,  Album,  Magazine,  or  Pa¬ 
per,  sent  “BY  KETUKN  OF  FIRST  POST,”  at  Publisher’s 
Prices.  Editors,  Agents,  Preachers,  Teachers,  and  others 
supplied.  All  works  on  Phonography,  Hydropathy, 
Anatomy,  Medicine,  Mechanics,  Dictionaries,  Gazet- 
EBRS,  Encyclopedias,  and  on  the  Natural  Sciences. 
Address  MESSIiS.  FOWLER  &  WEL1.S,  Purchasing  Agents. 
SS9  Broadway,  New  York.  P.  S.  All  tlie  New-York  Expresses 
call  at  our  House,  339,  daily. 

Agents  wanted  toseii  the  “nurse  and 

SPY,”  a  new,  highly  exciting,  and  richly  embellished 
work,  embracing  the  adventures  and  experience  of  a  woman 
in  Hospitals,  Camps  and  Battle  fields,  as  “FIELD  NURSE” 

and  “SPY.’' - Just  the  book  the  people  want.  Energetic, 

persevering  men,  Tcaclicrs,  Ladies,  and  especially  returned 
SOLDIERS  will  find  a  rare  opportunity  to  make  money 
by  engaging  in  the  sale  of  tliis  thrilling  work. 

For  terms,  wliicli  are  very  liberal,  apply  to  or 
Address  W.  S.  WILLIAMS  &  CO., 

152  Asylum-st.,  Hartford,  Conn. 

December  2d,  1864. 

A  Pictorial  Bosafele  Msimtocr. 

New  Vol.  THE  ILLUSTRATED  PHRENOLOGI¬ 
CAL  JOURNAL  for  Jan.,  contains  portraits  of  Teiini- 
son,  Silliman,  Sheridan,  Cobb,  Phillips,  ihe  motlier  of 
Wesley,  an  Indian  Chief,  Frunze  Muller,  Miss  Muggins, 
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gale.  A  group  of  Warriors,  Hannibal,  Julius  Cmsar,  Pi- 
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mVEiNTORS,  MECHANICS,  AGRICUL¬ 
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ANNUAL  PROSPECTUS 
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A  new  Volume  of  which  commences  January  1, 1865. 

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ATEHT  AGEICI 
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The  Oldest,  Cheapest,  and  Best. 

MEEEY’S  MUSEUM, 

The  Oldest  and  most  F.avorite  Juvenile  Magazine  published. 
Vol.  50  commences  January,  1864.  Full  of  Stories.  Pictures, 
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BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS 


Sorgo  Journal  &,  Farm  Machinist. 

Devoted  to  Northern  Cane  culture.  Improved  Farm  Ma¬ 
chinery  and  progressive  Husbandry.  This  work  affords  the 
latest  and  most  reliable  information  upon  all  matters  relating 
to  the  Northern  cane  enterprise.  Including  the  subjects  of 
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subscribe.  Monthly,  $1.00  a  year.  Liberal  terms  to  agents 
and  Clubs.  Sample  numbers  free.  Address. 

SORGO  JOURNAL  AND  FARM  MACHINIST, 

Cincmnatl,  Ohio. 

eEND  20  CENTS  for  JAN.  No.  ILLUSTRATED 
PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL,  containing  Portraits, 
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[Any  of  the  following  books  can  he  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  Allol 
these  books  may  be  procured  in  making  up  a  library.  We 
indicate  our  opinion  of  their  value  by  one  or  more  Stars.] 
These  prices  are  only  good  for  orders  sent  previously  -tf 
February  Ist. 

Allen's  (L. F.)  Rural  Architecture....* . $  1  5» 

Allen  on  the  Culture  of  the  Grape .  1  51 

Allen’s  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book* .  1  50 

Allen’s  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals .  l  00 

American  Farmer's  Encyclopedia .  6  00 

American  Rose  Culturist,  bound .  50 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holly^ .  60 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden _ »** .  1  50 

Beecher’s  (Hy  Ward)  Fruit  Flowers  and  Farming .  1  25 

Bement’s  Poulterer’s  Companion...  *♦ .  2  00 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Fancier .  SO 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia .  1  50 

Boussingault’s  Rural  Economy .  1  50 

Brldgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . 75 

Bridgeman’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant .  2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor . 75 

Bridgeman’s  Florist’s  Guide .  75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  German) _ * _  50 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers _ * .  I  .50 

Browne’s  American  Poultry  Yard .  J  25 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures  .  1  50 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America _ * .  4  50 

C.arpenters  and  Joiners  Hand  Book.  .(Holly) .  60 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide . .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.-)  American  Fruit  Book _ * .  60 

Cole’s  Veterinarian .  60 

Colman’s  Agrlcnlture .  5  00 

Copeland’s  Country  Life .  S  .50 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper .  75 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor _ • .  1  50 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  of  the  Horse _ (colored) .  5  00 

“  “  “  - (plain) .  3  50 

Domestic  Poultry .  30 

Downing  s  Cottage  Residences . **  . .  2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America _ _  3  00 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  Book .  1  50 

Employment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny _ ♦ .  1  5li 

Every  Lady  tier  own  Flower  Gardener .  31 

Farm  Kecortrfor  3  years .  8  O' 

Fessenden’s  American  Kitchen  Gardener .  fq 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener .  1  56 

French’s  Farm  Dr.ainage _ * . 1  50 

Field's  (Tliom.as  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  25 

Fish  Cultui’e .  1  50 

Flint  (Charles  L.)  on  Grasses _ ** .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming _ •** .  2  00 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist . *** .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist . *. . . .  20 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding. ,  .*♦.. .  100 

Gray’s  Manual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol..***..  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  00 

Guenon  on  Milcli  Cows .  75 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery . 1  25 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  «Si;c . 5  00 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain . ** _  3  50 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.**  4  50 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers — *•* .  ]  50 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  by  Cleveland .  1  50 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One .  1  75 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,  efec . 1  50 

Johnston’s  Catechisms  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  30 

Johnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  25 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

Langstrotli  on  the  Honey  Bee  . .  .*♦ .  1  50 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies' Flower  Garden... 

Leueliar’s  Howto  Build  Hot-houses . 

Liebig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry . 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture 


Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses  . 

Manual  of  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint. 

Mavbcw’s  Illustrated  Horse  Doctor  ..  ♦** . 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management. 


1  75 
1  50 
50 
1  25 
1  50 
1  00 
3  50 

. . .  3.50 

McMalion  s  American  Gardener - * .  2  50 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot . . .  50 

Mistakes  of  Educated  Men _ *» . .  60 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  25 

Munn’s  Land  Drainer .  75 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood _ •* . 2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record — *• .  1  50 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener _ (Pardee) .  1  .50 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee .  1  25 

Onion  Culture  ...*•* .  20 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  GOc _ * . (paper)  SO 

Our  Hardy  Grapes .  25 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . 1  50 

Pedder’s  Farmer’s  Land  Measurer . . . 50 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves .  1  50 

Quinhy’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping  .  ** . . .  150 

Quincy  on  Soiling  Culture.... (paper) .  85 

Rabbit  Fancier .  .80 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden _ ** .  3  00 

Rich’s  American  Architect .  6  00 

Rivers’  Orchard  House .  40 

Rural  Affairs (bound) SVols — each .  1  50 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of  3  Vols.  .moroco .  9  50 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols. .cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book .  60 

Skillful  Housewife  .  50 

Smith’s  Landscape  Gardening .  1  50 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Children** .  1  25 

Stephens’ Book  of  the  Farm _ 2Vols . .  ...  6  00 

Stewart’s  (John)  St.able  Book .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough .  1  50 

Timer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture .  2  50 

Thomas’  Fruit  Culturist .  1  50 

Thomson’s  Food  of  Animals .  1  00 

Tobacco  Culture  ..,***  . 25 

Todd's  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual — ** .  1  50 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Aflairs  — *  .  80 

Vaux's  VilUis  and  Cottages .  3  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture .  1  50 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  1  50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . . .  I  00 

Watson’s  American  Home  Garden — ••* .  2  flO 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) . .  ...  1  50 

Wlicat  Plant  (John  Klippart's) . .  1  50 

Yale  College  Agricultural  Lectures .  60 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Alartin  on  Cattle .  1  50 

Youatt  on  the  Hog. ..  .* .  100 

Youatt  on  Sheep .  1  00 

Youmans’ Household  Science  ...*••  .  1  75 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry — • .  I  75 


1865.1 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


29 


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STAMMERING. — For  a  Physiological  Treatise 
^on  its  “  CAUSE  and  CUKE,”  by  return  post,  send  20 
jents  to  S.  B.  WELLS,  No.  389  Broadway,  New-York. 


Ivin’s  I*atent  Hair  Crimpers. 

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The  Childrens  Ba¬ 
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School,  No.  510  Broadway, 
N,  T.  Holiday  and  Birthday 
gifts  for  tile  young.  Crandall's 
Patent  Spring  Rocldng  Horses, 
McKensie’s  Patent  Cantering 
Horses,  Brown’s  Patent  Baby 
Tenders,  Self-operating  Swings, 
Sleds,  Carriages,  Velocipedes, 
Invalid  Chairs,  Baby  Jumpers, 
Parlor  Skates,  Negro  Dancers, 
Dolls  that  Walk  and  Dolls  tliat  Talk,  and  Toys  in  variety, 
send  stamp  for  Circular  and  Price  List. 

LEWIS  TIBBALS,  510  Bioadway.  New-York. 


Stamm  ERIN  a 

Cured  by  Bates’  Patent  Appliances.  For  (descriptive) 
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SEVEN  OCTAVE. 

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net  Cash.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 


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WHAT  EVERYBODY  KNOWS,  VIZ; 

That  Iron  well  galvanized  will  not  rust; 

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split ; 

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That  all  who  have  tested  it,  pronounce  it  the  best  Wringer 
evci  yet  made ; 

That  it  will  wring  a  Thread  or  a  Bed  Quilt  without 
ALTEUATfON. 

fJORTABLE  PRINTING  OFFICES  !— 
a  For  siile  by  the  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  3G  Ann-st.,  New- 
1  ork.  Circular  sent  free.  Specimen  Sheet  of  TYPE,  CUTS. 
&c„  six  cents.  ■ 

Improved  8taiicliioii 

OPENER  AND  FASTENER  FOR 


PATENTED  MA  V  31,  1864. 

Before  the  cattle  are  let  into  ilie  stable,  tbe  lever  0,ls 
moved  to  the  right,  tiien  the  leve-  F  is  moved  to  the  right; 
then  lever  F  is  thrown  to  tlie  left.  Wlien  the  cattle  have 
taken  tlieir  places,  lever  O  is  moved  to  tlic  left,  which  fastens 
them  all  at  one  time.  To  fasten  ihcm  over  niglit,  a  pin  may 
be  placed  over  the  lever  O,  or  a  iiook  may  be  used.  ’This 
works  at  either  end.  One  or  more  can  be  opened  by  raising 
chain  I.  When  they  are  open,  one  or  more  can  be  sliut  by 
pushing  up  stanchion  B,  as  witliout  it.  Tlie  bar  H,  is  hung 
higher  at  one  end ;  by  this  means  the  cattle  are  let  out  one 
at  a  time  by  moving  lever  H  slowly  to  tlie  riglit.  Pin  E, 
should  be  put  near  the  inner  edge,  so  wlien  block  Krises 
stanchion  B  will  fall  baclt.  Any  girl  or  boy  can  work  this 
and  keep  dry  and  clean.  This  arrangement  can  be  placed  on 
arw  stancliions.  Warranted  to  work  150  feet  long. 

For  further  particulars  or  the  purchase  of  right,  address 
CHARLES  EDWARD  PETRIE,  Patentee. 

Cherry  Valley,  Ashtabula  County,  Oliio. 


Sanford  IM^allory’s 

FI.AX  AMD  HEMP  DHESSERS 

are  no  longer  an  experiment.  Over  200  No.  1  Brakes  have 
been  sold  and  are  in 

PRACTICAL  USE. 

A  pamphlet  will  be  sent  free  of  charge  by  writing. 

JOHN  W.  QUINCY.  AGENT, 

No.  98  Wllliam-st.,  New-York. 

TESTIMONIALS. 

Huntingdon,  Penn.,  March  26'th,  1864. 
Messrs.  Mallory  and  Sanford : 

Gentlemen,— It  gives  me  great  pleasure  to  testify  to  tha 
general  excellency  of  your  Patent  Flax  Brake.  I  have  been 
operating  one  for  the  past  four  montlis.  and  am  satisfied  It 
will  do  all  that  is  claimed  for  it.  They  readily  break  tlie 
number  of  pounds  per  day  which  you  claim  in  your  pain- 
nlilet.  and  the  flax  leaves  the  machine  perfectiv  straight. 
Tlie  Brake  can  readily  be  adjusted  to  hard  or  tender  flax  as 
the  case  may  be,  and  with  ordinary  attention,  I  consider  tlie 
probability  of  the  machine  getting  out  of  order  verv  remote. 

I  am  very  truly  yours,  Hoeatio  G.  Fishke. 


Stittsvills,  N.  T.,  March  2Sth,  1864. 
Messrs.  Mallory  and  Sanford : 

Gentlemen,— Yon  ask  our  opinion  in  regard  to  your  Flax 
Machine ;  we  can  say  with  pleasure  that  we  are  higiily 
pleased  with  it ;  we  find  no  difficulty  in  breaking  for  four 
dressers,  and  they  say  tliey  never  dressed  after  so  perfect  a 
machine  for  breaking.  As  this  is  the  first  season  of  our  expe¬ 
rience  In  the  Flax  business,  we  are  not  qualified  to  speak  of 
our  own  knowledge  of  its  superior  qualities  over  the  old 
machines.  Tours  truly,  &e., 

Atwood  &  Bridenbeokeb. 


Kingwood,  Hunterdon  Co.,  N.  J.,  April  3, 1864. 
Messrs.  Mallory  and  Sanford  : 

Gentlemen, — I  have  been  using  your  valuable  Patent 
Flax  Brake  for  the  last  three  months  to  my  entire  satisfac¬ 
tion.  I  liave  more  tlian  realized  my  expectations  botli  in  re¬ 
gard  to  the  quantity  and  quality  of  work  done.  I  regard  it 
as  one  of  the  greatest  inventions  of  the  present  day.  From 
experiments  made  I  believe  the  saving  to  be  fully  one  fourth 
in  fibre  over  the  old  li.and-brakes  heretofore  in  use  in  this 
part  of  the  country ;  it  not  only  increases  the  quantity  but 
It  greatly  Improves  tlie  quality  of  flax,  wliich  enables  tha 
seller  to  obtain  the  highest  market  rates.  Anotlier  import¬ 
ant  consideration  is  the  small  amount  of  power  it  requirei 
to  break  a  given  amount  in  a  given  time. 

Yours  respectfully,  Wilson  Bray. 


Woodstock  Flax  Factory, 
Milton,  Morris  Co.,  N.  J.,  March  26Ui,  1864. 
Messrs.  Mallory  and  Sanford  : 

Gentlemen,— I  have  used  one  of  your  Patent  Flax  Brakes 
(No.  3)  since  the  first  of  January  last,  and  can  say  that  it  far 
exceeds  my  expectations ;  it  not  only  breaks  the  straw  thor¬ 
oughly  but  it  keeps  it  perfectly  straiglit  without  any  waste. 
Anotlier  great  advantage  it  possesses'is  that  two  boi’s,  11  and 
13  years  old  can  break  as  fast  as  one  man  can  scutch  the 
same.  I  consider  it  one  of  the  greatest  saving  maciiiues  of 
the  age.  Wisliing  you  success  in  this  great  invention. 

I  am  truly  yours,  Elias  C.  Talmadge. 


Office  op  the  Cooesbuegh  Flax  Works, 
John  W.  Quincy,  Esq.  March  26tli,  1864. 

Dear  Sir,— Your  favor  just  received  asking  my  opinion 
of  your  Brake.  It  aft'ords  me  much  pleasure  to  do  tills  fa¬ 
vorably.  After  running  five  of  your  No.  1  Brake  in  the  Flax 
district  of  Ireland  and  successfully  competing  with  sixteen 
different  macliines,  I  returned  to  this  country  and  started  a 
mill  in  Albany  County,  New  York.  We  worked  all  kinds  of 
straw,  rotted,  unrotted,  and  over-rotted,  never  injuring  tlie 
fibre,  giving  the  Flax  a  soft  silky  feel  and  better  spinning 
quality  than  could  be  obtained  on  any  other  Brake.  We 
have  run  our  Brake  nearly  si.x  montlis,  part  of  the  time  night 
and  day,  and  have  liad  no  breakdown  ;  we  consider  the  ma- 
cliine  as  good  to-day  as  when  we  purchased  it.  I  am  confi¬ 
dent  that  there  is  a  large  saving  in  fibre  and  the  value  of  the 
flax  is  very  much  enhanced  by  its  use.  I  think  it  useless  to 
say  more  on  the  subject ;  all  that  is  necessary  is  for  a  man  to 
see  it  work  to  be  convinced  that  it  Is  tlie  best  Brake  in  use. 
Wishing  you  success,  I  remain  yours  truljL 

Edgar  Foivks. 


C©iii§t€ick^s  notary  Spader. 

Having  purchased  the  exclusive  right  to  manufacture  and 
vend  this  great  AgrieTiltraral  wasst  (throughout  the 
United  States,  excepting  the  New  England  and  some  of  the 
Atlantic  and  Pacific  States),  which  has  been  s®  thoroughly 
and  satisfactorily  tested,  I  am  now  prepared  to  receive 
orders  for  them. 

A  boy  15  years  old  with  4  good  horses  can  spade  6  to  8  acres 
per  day,  8  inches  deep,  leaving  the  field  in  the  condition  of  a 
garden  bed  when  forked. 

Depots  will  be  established  at  Chicago,  Milwaukee,  St. 
Louis,  Cincinnati,  Indianapolis,  and  other  Western  and 


Is  the  only  entirely  reliable  Washing  MacMne«lli  existence. 
It  has  been  in  constant  use  in  the  family  of  Mr.  Judd,  the 
Proprietor  of  this  Journal,  and  in  that  of  Mr.  Munn,  proprie¬ 
tor  of  the  Scientific  American,  since  1861.  For  description 
see  advertisement  in  preceding  numbers  of  the  Agriculturist. 
§cii«l  foi"  free  Circular  to 
OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  184  Water-street,  New-York. 


Hay  and  Stalk  Cxxtters, 

Corn  Sltellers,  Hay  Presses,  Cider  Mills,  &c, 
JOHN  VANDERBILT, 

23  Fulton-Bt„  near  FuItonMarket.  N  v 


HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  PRESSES. 

These  machines  have  been  tested  in  the  most  thorough 
manner  throughout  tiiis  and  foreign  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  of  over  1200. 

The  Horse  Power  is  worked  by  either  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  in  many  respects  possesses  unequalled  advantages.  We 
invite  those  wanting  such  machines  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  promptly  attended  to.  by  addressing 
IN (JERSOLL  &  DOUGHERTY,  Groenpoint,  Kings  Co.,L.  I. 


Metallic  Rake  Rods  for  Ike 
Wlieel  Horse  Rake  Teelli. 


ALSO, 

TERRITORIAL.  RIGHTS  EOR  THE  BEST 
and  most  popular  WHEEL  liAKil. 

For  circulars  apply  to 

ELBEIIT  WHITE.  Stamford,  Conn. 


Southern  Cities,  .and  I  shall  endeavor  to  meet  the  demand 
by  manufacturing  extensively,  but  orders  should  be  sent  early 
to  avoid  delay  and  disappointment. 

For  further  information,  price,  &c.,’send  for  circular. 
November,  1864.  J.  C.  BIDWELL, 

Pittsburgh  (Pa.,)  Plow  Works. 


Will.  H.  KAWI.^E'FT,  Arcliitect. 

Holiokns,  Bergen  County,  N.  J. 


Ainmoiiiated  Facilic  tteaiio. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy -to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phospliate  of  Lime ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  cliem- 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
tliat  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superio-  lo 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  nett  ton.  A  liberal  dis- 
count  to  tlie  Trade. 

Pamphlets  with  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
from  scientific  agriculturists,  showing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  O.  BAKER  <fe  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st.,  New-York. 


30 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[JaKUABTj 


BRUCE’S 

CONCEITfiATED  MANURE, 

For  tlie  Fariiif  tlie  Garcleii,  tlie  Vineyard,  and  Lawn. 


Brucfs’s  Concoiitrat©*!  Maniii*©  is 
no  longer  an  experiment.  Three  yeais  tiial 
has  proved  its  superiority  over  all  other  feitil- 
tilizers.  It  is  not  because  of  its 

VAIiUAIlIjE  COMPOUNDS 

alone,  that  we  claim  its 

Oreat  Fertilizieg  Power  5 

it  is  also  in  the  Patent  process  tliroiigli 
wliicli  It  passes  in  its  maimfactiire, 
oy  which  we  are  enabled  to  CONCENTRATE 
the  NECESSARY  FOOD  for  VEGETATION. 

Bruce’s  Concentrated  Manure 
was  first  brought  to  the  notice  of  the  Agricul¬ 
turists  of  this  country  in  the  year  1862.  About 
Fifty  Tons  were  sold  during  the  year,  di¬ 
rect  to  farmers,  with  satisfactory  results.  The 
following  year  (1863)  orders  came  in  to  the 
amount  of  Four  lluiiclretl  TToiis?  only 
irwo  Hundred  of  which  could  be  fur¬ 
nished.  The  past  year  (1864)  we  sold  nearly 
Six  Iliisidred  Tons,  and  notwithstand¬ 
ing  the  severe  drought  it  has  more  than 
met  our  expectations.  In  order  to  supply  the 
demand  the  coming  season,  we  have  been 
obliged  to  enlarge  our  Factory,  and  with  im¬ 
proved  Machinery  and  enlarged  facilities,  we 
hope  to  be  able  to  manufacture. 

Two  Thoixsanci  Tons. 
Those  who  have  already  proved  the  value  of 
Bruce’s  Concentrated  Manure, 
and  those  desirous  of  testing  its 

FertiliyJng  Power, 

are  CAFTIOMED  from  purchasing  an  ar¬ 
ticle  bearing  the  name  of  Bruce’s  fertilizer; 
supposing  it  to  be  simon  pure,  as  sold  by 
us.  The  article  sold  by  us  is  branded  on 
each  barrel, 

Bruce’s  Psiteut  Concentrated 
Manure. 

c.  W.  VAN  DOREN  &  CO., 

GKIFFING  BUOTIIEIt  dc  ۩., 

S8  &  GO  Courtlandt-st.,  N.  Y. 


We  give  below  a  few  of  the  many  testimo¬ 
nials  sent  to  us. 

BEAD  A¥D  BE  COHVmCED : 

Gleks  Falls,  N.  Y., 

Nov.  14th,  1864. 
Messrs.  Griffing  Brother  &  Co. 

Gents, — The  “  ISruce’s  Concentrated 
Maiiare  which  I  purchased  of  you  I 
used  on  corn  in  this  way.  I  mixed  two  bushels 
of  Nova  Scotia  Plaster,  to  one  of  the  manure, 
and  dropped  about  a  tablespoonful  in  the  hill 
before  planting.  Its  effect  was  equal  to  my 
expectation,  and  I  think  added  one-third  to  the 
crop.  I  had  other  corn  raised  in  the  same  field 
upon  shares,  to  which  the  manure  VOT 

APPLIED,  and  the  difference  between  the  two 
crops  was  perceptible  during  the  entire  season. 
I  also  used  the  same  mixture  upon  my  garden. 
It  made  the  cabbages  snap  while  growing,  and 
crack  when  fully  grown.  The  eight  barrels 
you  sent  me  wei’e  burned  in  our  great  fire,  but 
I  saved  the  manure  and  used  it  after  it  had 
passed  through  the  fire.  I  shall  want  Ten 
Tons  for  next  spring’s  use,  and  would  like  to 
know  if  I  can  have  it  on  the  same  terms  as 
last  spring. 

The  corn  I  raised  on  a  light  sandy  soil,  and 
the  crop  manured  with  “  Bruce’s  Concentrated 
Manure,”  was  the  subject  of  wonder  to  every 
one  who  saw  it. 

Yours  truly, 

E.  H.  Eosekeans. 


Nobthfield,  Richmond  Co.,  N.  Y., 

Nov.  9th,  1864. 

Messrs.  Grifiing  Brother  &  Co. 

Gentlemen,— The  two  tons  of  BRUCE’S 
COMCEMTRATEU  MAWIIRE,  which 
I  purchased  of  yon,  I  applied  to  my  oats  last 
spring,  at  the  rate  of  TWO  HUNDRED  POUNDS 
to  the  acre,  on  nine  acres.  The  ground,  having 
previously  produced  a  crop  of  wheat,  was  in 
tolerable  condition.  The  yield  of  grain  and 
straw  exceecietl  anything  of  the  kind  I  hav-e 
ever  seen ;  the  OATS  WEIGHED  THIRTY- 
FOUR  POUNDS  to  the  bushel,  and  the  straw 
was  upon  an  average  five  feet  in  height.  The 
balance  of  the  two  tons  I  have  this  fall  applied 
to  a  portion  of  my  wheat  crops,  the  growth  of 
which  has  been  thus  far,  rapid  and  luxuriant. 
I  also  applied  a  small  quantity  to  corn  and 
beans  in  May  last,  with  satisfactory  results. 
From  my  experience,  I  consider  THIS  MA¬ 
NURE  THE  BEST  AND  CHEAPEST  OF  ALL 
THE  CONCENTRATED  MANURES  IN  THE 
MARKET. 

Very  Respectfully  Yours, 

David  L.  Gaedneb. 


Mount  Lebanon,  Columbia  Co.,'  N.  Y., 

Nov.  2,  1864 

Griffing,  Brothei’s  &  Co, 

Fkiends — Your  favor  asking  our  opinion 
about  “Bruce’s  Concentrated  Manure”  is  receiv¬ 
ed.  I  in  reply  would  say  that  we  have  used  it  the 
past  season  with  the  most  gratifying  results. 
The  season  was  so  dry  that  we  could  not  test  it 
as  we  would  have  wished.  We  used  it  on  our 
potatoes,  hoeing  it  in  after  they  were  up,  and 
the  yield  was  greater  than  by  any  concentrated 
manure  we  have  ever  used.  It  has  well  paid 
the  investment  on  our  gardens.  For  most  crops 
we  prefer  it  to  the  No.  1  Peruvian  Guano.  We 
shall  want  more  of  it  the  coming  season.  Have 
you  it  on  hand  ?  and  what  is  the  lowest  price. 

Respectfully  yours, 

D.  C.  Brainaed. 

Mr.  D.  C.  Brainaed,  the  writer  of  the  above 
letter,  is  one  of  the  New  Lebanon  Shakers — a  prac¬ 
tical  man,  and  one  who  thoroughly  understands 
agriculture  in  all  its  branches,  and  can  appre¬ 
ciate  a  good  fertilizer.  Mr.  Edward  Fowler,  also 
one  of  the  New  Lebanon  Friends,  who  is  known 
throughout  this  country  as  an  expert  in  Agricul¬ 
ture  and  Horticulture,  a  large  producer  of  all 
kinds  of  seeds  for  the  farm  and  garden,  also 
herbs  for  medicinal  purposes,  in  answer  to  our 
enquiries  says,  send  me  another  ton,  and  puts 
down  the  money  to  pay  for  the  same.  Mr.  F. 
had  already  used  several  tons ;  we  want  no  bet¬ 
ter  proof  of  its  value  from  one  so  well  posted. 

Griffing,  Bro.  &  Co. 

Notwithstanding  the  heavy  advance  of  from 
TWENTY-FIVE  TO  FIFTY  PER  CENT, 
in  the  price  of  materials,  we  shall  sell 

BKUCE’S 

CO^'CENTRATED  MAIRB, 

at  the  low  price  of 

^50  per  Ton. 

it  is  packed  in  barrels  weighing  270  lbs.  each. 

ACJEMTS  WAMTED5 

for  all  the  large  Towns  and  Cities  in  the 

,.XJ  IN’  I  O  IV. 

Send  for  Circular, 

SEND  YOUR  ORDERS  DIRECT  TO 

CJRIFFIMG  RISOTIIER  &  CO,, 

§8  Sc  60  Courtland-st., 

New- York. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


31 


NOTICE  TO  I^IIIFPEIIS 

OF 

Tallow,  Lard,  Bacon,  Pork,  Beef 

AND 

GENERAL  WESTERN  PRODUCE. 

The  undersigned  pay  their  particular  attention  to  tlie  sale 
sf  the  above  articles,  and 

Consiafiiineiits  sent  to  tUem  will  ne 

PROMPTLY  DISPOSED  OF 

AND 

QUICK  RETURNS  MADE 

i»n  very  advantageous  terms. 

Orders  for  Soda.  Ash,  Sal-Soda, 
Casistie  Soda,  aucl  all  Icinds  of  A-lhalies, 
Candle  Wicks,  and  all  materi.als  used  by 
Soap  .and  Candle-makers,  promptly  filled,  at  the 

lowest  market  prices. 

We  issne  a  WEEKLY  PRICE  CURRENT  of  the  above  ar¬ 
ticles,  which  we  mail  gratis  to  those  sending  their  address. 

ABRAM  KNICIIIT  &  SO  AS, 

32  Water-st.,  New-York  City. 

A.  M.  HAIiSTEH, 

NTo.  67  Pearl-street,  New-Yorfc, 

Produce  Commission  Mercliant, 

FOR  THE  SALE  OP 

REFERENCES.— Beni.  Loder,  Esq.,  N.  Y.,  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  R.,  Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O.,  Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  ChicrtSTO,  IH.,  Geo.M.  Todd,  Burlington,  la. 

Send  for  weekly  Price  Current  and  Marking  Plate. 

Farmers,  Countrymen,  and 
Country  Merchants 

Can  send  their 

Blitter,  Clieese,  Egg's,  Eard,  Tallow,  Beans, 
Hops,  Flax,  Cotton,  Flour,  Grain,  Meal, 
Green  and  Dried  Fruits,  Furs,  Skins, 
Poultry,  Game,  Provisions,  Seeds, 
Sorg'lium,  Wool,  Potasli,  Tobac¬ 
co,  Oils,  and  other  produce  to 

JOSIAH  CAiSFENTEH, 

COMMISSION  MERCHANT, 


PARSONS  &  CO., 


offer 


TIMES 


of  all  tlie  leading  varieties  of  excellent  quality. 
Among  them  are 


each. 

per  doz.  per  100. 

per  1000. 

Iona . $1.50  $15.00 

$100 

Allen’s  Hybrid. 

75 

7.00 

40 

Concord,  1  year.. 

25 

2.50 

13 

$100 

2  “ 

50 

4.00 

25 

Delaware . 

50 

5.00 

25 

Foreign  Vines  of  ail  the 

sorts  and  finely  grown  at 

1  year,  $5  per  doz. 

;  $83  per 

100. 

2  years,  8  “ 

5U  " 

** 

In  addition  to  tlieir  otlier 

FRUIT  TREES 

They  offer  PEAR  TREES  of  extra  size. 

Tliey  commend  to  tiie  special  attention  of  nurserymen  tlielr 
stock  of  choice 

embracing  nearly  200  varieties,  which  tliey  ofl'er  at  low  rates : 
among  them  are 

CuPKESsus  Lawsoniana . $C  per  doz. 

TnUIOPSIS  BOKEALIS .  G  “  “ 

Junipers . $35  per  100 

Arbor  Vit.^,  Siberian .  10  “  “ 

do  American .  6  “  " 

Pice  A  Noedmania . 50  “  " 

Pines,  Austrian .  20  “  “ 

do  Scotch,  large .  20  "  “ 

Upright  Yew,  quite  liardy . 35  “  “ 

Norway  Spruce .  12  “  “ 

Golden  Yew . 

STREET  TREES,  large  and  liandsome. 

FLOWERING  SHRUBS  in  great  variety. 

ROSES,  Hybrid  Perpetual,  on  tlieir  own  roots,  and  grafted 
or  budded,  $20  per  100. 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  health. 

STOVE  PLANTS  in  variety. 

IvHODODENDRONS,  bctli  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
in  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  tliey  refer  to  tlieir  Catalogues  for 
wliicli  address  tliera  at 

Flusliiiig,  near  Wew  York. 


323  Wasliington-strect,  New-York, 

Near  Erie  Rail  Road  Depet. 

To  he  sold  at  Hie  iiigliest  market  price.  Every  shipper  to 
him  will  receive  liis  valuable  Weekly  Price  Current  of  Hie 
New-York  Market  free. 

S.  B,  CONOVER, 

Commission  Dealer, 

260,  261  &  262  West  Wasliington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Kefers  to  the  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


LANE’S  PURCHASING  AGENCY. 

HARVEY  B.  LANE, 

161  Nassau-street,  New  York. 

FOR  PURCHASING 

Articles  of  Merchandise,  Implements  for  the 
Farm,  Garden  and  Household, 

Seeds,  Trees,  Grape  Vines,  &,c., 


IONA  IBLAMD  VINES. 

Tlie  price  List  for  Spring  of  1805  is  now  ready,  and  will  be 
sent  for  a  two-ceiit  stamp,  eitlier  alone  or  witli  a  proposition 
for  formation  of  clubs,  or  witli  Hie  sixteen  page  pamphlet 
wliicli  gives  .an  account  of  our  four  best  native  kinds,  includ¬ 
ing  a  full  description  of  Hie  Iona  and  Israella. 

In  tills  connection  I  would  call  particul.ar  attention  to  an 
article  in  Hie  December  number  of  American  Agriculturist, 
page  3tl,  signed  II.  P.  Byrani,  in  wliicli  lie  makes  very  grave 
cliarges  against  me,  wliicli,  if  true,  would  not  only  justly  de¬ 
stroy  my  reputation  and  business,  but  render  me  liable  to 
prosecution  by  every  purchaser  of  Israella  Vines. 

He  says  “  I  state  tliese  facts  from  my  own  personal  obser¬ 
vation,  and  they  were  known  to  every  intelligent  cultivator 
on  tlie  place  at  tlie  time.” 

Now  I  would  declare  tliat  all  of  liis  allegations  against  me 
are  utterly  false. 

In  the  first  place  lie  never  saw  an  Israella  vine  in  bearing 
and  never  saw  a  bunch  of  tlie  fruit.  He  never  tasted  any 
except  a  few  very  imperfect  berries  and  long  out  of  season. 

No  such  “forcing  process”  as  he  describes,  or  any  other, 
was  emploved  last  season,  or  li.as  ever  been  employed  lor 
Iiastening  the  maturity  or  improving  tlie  quality  of  tlie  Isra¬ 
ella  Grapes.  Tliese  vines  liave  always  “been  grown  in  the 
open  ground  and  in  tlio  usual  manner,"  except  that  the 
mother  vine  has  been  greatly  exhausted  liy  having  layers 
taken  from  it  tlirougli  a  succession  of  years  for  propagation. 

The  slieltering  process  of  wliicli  H.  P.  Byram  attempts  to 
speak,  has  been  fully  descrilie.d  in  my  Illustrated  Catalogue 
during  tlie  past  five  years,  but  has  never  been  applied  to  one 
Israella  vine. 


DRY  GOODS,  CLOTHING, 

Boots  and  Shoes,  Hardware,  Groceries,  &c.,  &c.. 
Good  Fertilizers,  purchased  of  tUe  most 
reliable  Dealers,  Fruit  and  Ornamental 
Trees  and  Flauts— In  short,  anything  to 
be  procured  in  New  York  City  and  at  other 
accessible  points. 

Special  attention  will  also  he  given  to  procuring  Sewing 
Macliines;  Pianos  and  other  Musical  Instruments:  Pliilo- 
sort-vru'  e-vd  Astronomical  Apparatus;  Books  for  Schools 
and  Colleges,  and  acnoo.  r  ui  mcuik.. 


Our  present  stock  of  plantiiis  the  largest  and  best  we  liave 
ever  offered  for  sale. 

liescriptive  Catalogue  issued  Hiis  month,  and  sent  to  all 
•pplicants  enclosing  stamp.  J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgli,  Pa. 


Buckthorn  seed  wanted— a  few  bushels 

or  less,  by  L.  M.  WALKER.  Olintoii,  Oneida  Co^  N.  Y. 


Now  I  liave  thought  “  it  an  act  of  simple  justice  to  the  pub¬ 
lic  ”  and  ail  concerned,  first  to  ask  Mr.  Byram  to  publish 
a  full  retraction  of  these  and  all  tlie  otlier  false  statements 
wliicli  lie  has  made  concerning  me,  and  on  liis  refusing  to  do 
this  I  liave  thought  in  the  second  place  tliat  justice  require 
tliat  I  should  commence  prosecution  againt  him  and  those 
who  have  uttered  his  statements,  which  has  been  done 
accordingly. 

Tlie  Illustrated  and  Descriptive  Catalogues  are  bound  to- 
gether  in  flexible  paper  covers  and  constitute  Hie  most 
tliorongh  and  complete  treatise  on  the  vine  in  tlie  language. 
Sent  for  fifty  cents.  They  contain  more  tlian  one  hundred 
and  forty  of  the  best  engravings  ever  prepared  for  illustrat¬ 
ing  tlie  treatment  ot  the  vine.  Illustrated  Catalogue,  eighth 
edition  sent  for  twenty-five  eents.  Descriptive  for  ten  cents. 
The  last  contains  more  than  sixty  fine  engravings.  Pam¬ 
phlet  of  sixteen  pages  witli  price  list  sent  for  t  wo-ceiit  stamps. 

Address  C.  W.  GRANT. 

Iona  Island,  near  Peekskill,  'Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y. 

i  :  A  Ti  S  E  E  I>  . 

C.  RAOUX, 

86  Cedar-st.  New-York  City. 

Will  receive  and  transmit  to  Europe,  as  usual,  orders  from 
Americ.an  Nurserymen.  Will,  also,  contract  to  import  nur¬ 
sery  stocks,  at  Ills  cost  and  risk,  and  to  deliver  tliem  safely 
at  specified  prices,  times  and  places.— For  Sale.  A  com¬ 
plete  copy,  14  years,  of  the  Flore  des  Seri  es  et  des  Jardins  de 
I’Europe.  Fresli  Fear  and  Jlalialeb  seeds. 


50,000  CONCORD  VINES. 

5,®®©  RDCmERS’  IIYBRIB’S. 

Send  stamp  for  'Wholesale  or  Iletail  Catalogfue,  containing 
cut  of  Kogers’  No.  19.  The  Spucia.1  Premium  Grape 
of  the  Penn.  Horticultural  Society,  which  is  the  best  new 
hardy  Black  Grape  yet  introduced.  We  have  the  whole 
stock  from  original  vine.  Address 

WM.  PEIiKlT  &  SON,  Bridgeport,  Conn. 


VICK’S 


Jllustuatclr  Annual  Catalogue 

OF 

FLOWER  AND  VEGETABLE  SEEDS, 


AND 

Ciiiide  to  the  Flower  Ccarden, 

FOE  1865;  IS  NOW  PUBLISHED. 

It  Contains  Accurate  Descriptions  of  the 


LEADING  FLORAL  TREASURES  of  the  WORLD 


'WITH  FULL  DIRECTIONS  FOR 

Sowing  Seed,  Transplanting,  Si  After-cnlture. 

This  beautiful  and  useful  FLORAIi  GUIDE  consists 
of  about  70  pages,  beautifully  illustrated  with  over  Thirty 
Engravings  and  Two  COLORED  PLATES. 

It  is  published  for  the  information  and  benefit  of  my 
customers,  and  to  those  it  is  sent  FREE.  To  all  others, 
price  10  cents,  including  postage,  which  is  less  tlian  His 
actual  cost.  Address 

TICK, 

Rocltester,  lY.  Y. 


Hardy  Fruit  for  the  Northwest! 

Would  you  learn  the  hardy,  early  hearing,  most  productive 
sorts  of  fruit,  how  to  plant ;  also  tlie  hardy  Ornamental  Trees 
and  Slirnbs  as  tested  in  23  years’ nnrserying  at  the  West? 
Send  2  red  stamps  for  the  (ISiiS)  Catalogues  of  tlie  Blooming¬ 
ton  Nursery— 13th  year,  220  acres  of  Fruit,  Ornamental  and 
Nursery  Stock— Root  Grafts,  Stocks,  Cuttings,  Scions,  Fresh 
Apple  ($8  .50  bnsh),  and  Pear  Seeds  ($3  50  lb.).  Green-house, 
Garden  and  Bedding  Plants. 

Apple  and  Pear  Trees,  Dwarf  and  Standard,  an  im* 
mense  Stock,  Plum,  Clierry,  Peacli,  Apricot,  Nectarine, 
Small  Fruits. 

Gvapes.—15  acres,  including  Adriondac,  Iona,  Israella, 
Crcveling.  Allen's  Hybrid,  7  of  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Norton’s 
■Virginia,  Union  Village,  Hartford  Prolific,  witli  superb  bear¬ 
ing  layers  of  Delaware  and  Concord,  1  year  Catawb.a  per 
1.000.  Early  Riclimoiul  and  Osage  Orange  in  moderate  sn*. 

ply. 

Evergreens _ -20  acres  mostly  medium  and  small  sizes 

Ornamental  Trees  and  Slirulis.  Roses— Over  4  acres  ol 
over  400  sorts,  many  verv  new- few  better  stocks  and  collec¬ 
tions.  Dahlias,  Plilox,  Clirysanthemums,  Gladiolus.  Lilies, 
&c.  Five  large  Greenliouses  with  frames  covering  over  10.000 
square  feet  of  glass  are  used. 

Packing  by  all  routes  carefully  docs  in  mosa, 

Prices  reasonalile.  Terms  cash. 

Bloomington,  111.  F.  K.  PHOJNIX. 


Knox  Fruit  Farm  and  Nurseries. 

Onr  New  Catalogue  for  Spring  of  1865,  will 
be  issued  this  month,  and  sent  to  all  applicants  enclosing 
stamp.  J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  sale.  Five  of  the 
^best  varieties  of  plants  for  cultivation,  viz. :  Russel’s  Pro¬ 
lific  and  Bufl'alo  Seedling  at  $2  per  100  ;  Frencli’s  Seedling 
at  $5  per  1,000;  Cutters  Seedling  and  Downer’s  Prolific  at  $3 
per  1,000.  Also  other  varieties  at  reduced  prices. 

For  sale  by 

THOS.  C.  ANDREWS, 
Morristown,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J. 


STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  spring  setting  ;  all 
^themostpromising  varieties,  including  FRENCH’S  SEED¬ 
LING,  noted  for  earliness,  vigor  and  productiveness.  Cata¬ 
logues  free  to  all  applicants.  SAML.  L.  ALLEN. 

Cmnaminson  P.  O.,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J. 


g  Oifiion  Seed  &  Onion 

SETTS.  My  Onion  Seed  is  warranted  fresh  and  pure ;  On¬ 
ion  Setts  are  a  fine  sample,  and  in  fine  order  for  shipping. 
Prices  on  application  to 

ROBERT  BUIST,  JR, 
Seed  Waeehouse  922  &  924  Market-st., 

PniLADELPHXA,  PS. 


Garden  Seeds.  Garden  Seeds. 


Tlie  greatest  care  is  taken  that  all  seeds  sold  by  me  shall 
be  pure,  choice  and  reliable.  Dealers  fnrnislied  on  the  most 
favorable  terms.  JOHN  VANDERBILT, 

23  Fulton-st.,  New-York. 
■Wholesale  and  Retail  price  list  furnished  on  applic.ation. 


Agents  wanted  for  sale  of  Trees,  Plants  and 

Seeds,  in  all  the  loyal  States.  B.  M.  WATSON. 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


Mot  Water  Fiirsiaees 

for  Warming  Green-liouscs,  Conservato¬ 
ries.  Graperies,  Ac. 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Prince-st.  New-Toric. 


32 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


Contents  for  January,  1865. 

Barn-Barrow  and  Feed  Box . 2  Illustrations.. 12 

Sai  n— Plan  of  an  Illinois . Illustrated.  .\2 

Bees— Apiary  in  January . 

Bonnets,  elc.,  Short  Chapter  on . 3  Illustrations .  .21 

Books  in  Farmers’  Families . •••• 

Boys  and  Girls’  Columns— “A  Happy  New  Year  — 
About  Keeping  the  Mouth  Shut — Probiems  and  Poz¬ 
zies— Taking  Carlo’s  Portrait— Something  About 
Making  Pictures— The  Small  Loaf  of  Bread— A  few 
Words  to  Skaters— Underground  Railroads— A  Shap 
Customer— Boys  and  Girls  in  Business— Was  he 

Tipsy?— God’s  Organ . b  Illustrations .  .23,  ’24, ’25 

BuffW-East  Indian . Illustrated  9 

Cattle  of  Southern  Asia . Illustrated  9 

Cone-Bearing  Plants  from  Cuttings . 18 

Editors  and  Dealers-Their  Relations.....  •••••■•  ••  2 

Evergreens— Hardy  ;  Austrian  and  Dwarf  Pines, 2  Ulus.  1- 
Exhibilion  Tables  ni  American  Agriculturist  Office...  3 

Farm  Work  in  January . ”  f .i 

Farmer  Folks  in  War  Time  . Illustrated.  .\b 

Fertilization — Agency  of  Vt’indsand  Insects . 15 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  January . 2 

Flowers— Cannas  in  Groups . 20 

Flowers  for  Working  Men . „ 

Flowers— Pretty  Native  Annual . Illustrated.  .I'd 

Fruit  Garden  in  January . . . f 

Fruit  Trees  as  Dwarf  Pyramids,  etc.,  3  Illustrations ..u 

Fruit  Trees— What  to  Plant, .  14 

Fruits — Naming  New . 19 

Garden— Kitchen  in  January .  2 

Gr.ape  Controversy . ” 

Grapes— Iona  and  Israella— Answer  to  H.  P.  Byram..  .15 

Grapes— Notes  on...  I..  . 19 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  January .  2 

Gun  Cleaner— Novel  and  Simple  . 11 

Hogs— Western  Mode  of  Slaughtering  and  Cutting  up,  12 

Horses— How  to  Break  a  Colt . 10 

Horticulture  and  Matrimony.. . .........13 

Insects— Experience  With . ..18 

Lumber — Measurement  of  Saw  Logs . II 

Maple  Sugar— Suggestions  on  Making . 13 

Market  Review,  elc . 3 

Moisture  in  Air  Important . 21 

Milk,  Beef,  and  Labor. .  .1 . 10 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  January . Illustrated.,  i 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  January .  I 

Owl— Snowy,  or  Harfang . Illustrated.  .13 

Plants,  House  in  Winter .  21 

Premiums  Offered  for  1865 .  2 

Peach  Trees  in  Cold  Climates . 18 

Potato  Cooking— Christopher  Crowfield's  Suggestions.  .22 

Potatoes  Grown  Under  Straw . 11 

Practical  Odds  and  Ends  for  Household . 22 

Pulmonary  Invalids— Suggestions  To . 22 

Rats  — Economy  of  Keeping. . 10 

Reel ;>i;s— Farmers’  Fruit  Cake— Sauer  Kraut . .23 

Recordof  a  Year  . 17 

Roads— How  to  Repair . 11 

Roots — Use  of  Surface. . . . 19 

Rustic  Ornaments  for  Gardens,  etc.,  ..4  Illustrations .  .20 

Sanitary  and  Christian  Commission  Contributions  _ _ 25 

Saws,  and  How  to  File  Them,.... - 4  Illustrations.. li 

Sheep— Care  of  in  Winter .  9 

Shrub— Eioc/rorda  Grandijlora . Illustrated.  .20 

Slippers— German,  for  the  House . 22 

Tea— Taking  in  The  Countiw . 21 

Veterinary  College  in  New  York . 14 

Weeds— Plants  Out  of  Place . . 13 

Wheelbarrow  for  Boys . 11 

INDEX  TO  "  BASKET,”  OB  SHOBTEB  ARTICLES. 


Agenev,  Bad . 5 

Agricultural  Report, ’63.  ./ 

Apple  Tree,  Prolific . 6 

Apples  for  Iowa . 6 

A.sparagus  Bunches . 6 

Asphodel  Described . 7 

Beans,  Baked . 6 

Bees,  Italian,  Results.  .  .4 

Beet,  Large  . ...6 

Blackberry,  Cut-Leaved. ..7 

Book,  Colton  Manual . 5 

Buckwheat,  Wild..- . 6 

Camellias,  Treatment . 7 

Canada  Thistles  ...  6 

Carrots  for  Horses . 6 

Cheese  Makers’  Asso’n . 5 

Cheese,  Wintering . 4 

Chickens,  Early  Layers... 4 

Claret  Wine  Stain . 4 

Coal  Tar  and  Roofing . 4 

College,  Ag'l.,  Mass . 7 

College,  Ag’l.,  Pa . ...7 

Concrete  Posts.... . 7 

Conundrum,  Original . 5 

Corn  Fodder  in  Minn . 4 

Cows,  Feeding  for  Milk. ..4 

Cows,  Warty  Teats . 4 

Cranberries,  Upland . 6 

Death  of  Horticulturist.. ..4 

Dictionary,  Best . 8 

Evergreen  Seeds . 5 

Farm,  Locating . 5 

Farmers’  M.anual . 5 

Fowls,  Black  Spanish . 4 

Garden,  Profitable . 6 

Gladiolus.  Seedling. .  7 

Government  Ag’l  Editor.  .5 

Grain  Shrinking . 7 

Hay,  Selling  or  Feeding.. .4 
Hay,  Timothy  in  Iowa. ...5 

Hedges,  Barbery . 6 

Hedges,  White  Willow. ..6 

Henneries,  Light  For . 4 

Hoop  Skirts,  Old . 7 

Horse  Book,  Best . 5 

Hor.se  Forks  for  Slacking,  4 
Horse  Radish.  Grinding... 6 

Horticulturist . 0 

Hum  t  rig  Circulars . 7 

ilumO'-.g  College . 7 

Humbug  Doctors  . 7 


Humbug,  Gas  Man . 7 

Humbug,  Lightning  Rod.. 7 

Ice  on  Door-steps . 8 

Ice,  Size  of  Blocks . 8 

Information  Wanted,  etc.,  8 

Land  Advertisements . 5 

Larkspur,  New . 4 

Leaves,  Large  Beech . 6 

Legislative  Document. ....  8 

Library,  Farmer’s . 5 

Marl,  Treatment . ..7 

Mortar,  Good . 7 

Museum,  Barnum’s.. . 5 

Newspaper  Box . 8 

Offal  for  Manure . 4 

Oil,  Gummed  . 7 

Onions,  Good  Crop........ 6 

Pansies  Indoors . 7 

Pear  Trees,  Barren . fi 

Petroleum  Companies ....  5 

Pig,  Happy . 5 

Pigs,  Remedy  for  Weak.. 4 

Plants  Named . 7 

P.  O.  Money  Orders . 4 

Pceonies,  Removing . 7 

Potatoes,  Fluke  . 6 

Potatoes,  Prolific . 6 

Propagating  Case . 7 

Rabbits  and  Trees . 6 

Rabbits,  Keeping . 5 

Railway  Accidents . 5 

Roots  for  Feeding . 6 

Scrap  Books  for  Soldiers..8 

Sorghum  Ass’n,  Ohio . 5 

iSorghum  in  Orange  Co _ 4 

Squashes,  Prolific . 6 

S.  S.  Lesson  Book . 8 

Stakes,  etc..  Coal  Tar  for.5 

Strawberry  Queries  . 6 

Subscriber,  Smallest . 7 

Subscription,  First . 8 

Terms  of  Subscription.... 4 

Tree  Labels,  Bliss’ . 6 

Trees,  Bark  Bound.  . 6 

Trees,  Medicating . 6 

Water  for  Cooking  . 8 

Weather  Strips,  Torrey’s.4 

Weed.  New . 6 

Weeds,  American,  etc ...  .7 

Wind  Power,  Saving . 7 

Wistaria,  Fruit  . 4 


GJ-  12.  E  E  T  I  IN  GJ- ! 


Now  is  a  time  for  mutual  congratulations,  and  nowhere 
do  kinder  feelings  prompt  these,  than  among  a  company 
associated  for  a  twelve-month.  With  a  full  heart  the 
Publisher  tenders  the  Compliments  of  the  Season  to  each 
and  all  of  his  large  circle  of  patrons.  The  past  year  has 
had  its  serious  drawbacks,  its  struggles  against  advancing 
prices  after  contracts  for  a  year  at  a  fixed  rate  had  been 
entered  into  with  such  a  multitude  of  readers,  and  this 
too  amid  the  calls  of  duty  to  the  field  of  strife,  and  the 
subsequent  bodily  sufferings  experienced.  But  the  year 
closed  witliout  serious  pecuniary  difficulty,  and  indeed 
more  prosperously  than  expected — thanks  to  the  good 
will  of  our  readers  manifested  in  extending  the  circula- 
ation  of  the  Agriculturist  quite  beyond  any  former  limit. 

Our  good  Agricultural  Ship  now  begins  its  Twenty- 
Fourth  Annual  Voyage,  well  refitted,  and  with  more  pas¬ 
sengers,  fuller  freight,  larger  crew,  and  more  complete 
appointments  in  all  respects,  than  ever  before.  May  the 
favoring  gales  of  a  just  public  opinion  waft  it  onward  to 
a  more  tlian  ever  successful  cruise.  No  efforts  are  spar¬ 
ed  by  the  Publisher,  or  by  his  unsurpassed  Editorial  Staff, 
to  make  this  a  first  class  periodical.  That  these  efforts 
have  been  successful  and  duly  appreciated,  is  evidenced 
by  the  fact  that  the  Agriculturist  has  risen  to  a  circulation 
at  least  three-fold  that  of  any  other  agricultural  period¬ 
ical  in  the  world,  and  to  many  thousands  more  than  the 
combined  circulation  of  all  other  similar  journals 
in  this  country.  This  furnishes  tlie  facilities  for  still 
further  improvements,  and  a  wider  field  for  gath¬ 
ering  material  from  the  experience  and  wisdom 
of  our  readers,  who  are  scattered  through  all  parts  ofour 
broad  continent.  We  respectfully  solicit  a  continuation 
of  the  favor  and  support ,  so  generously  bestowed  hith¬ 
erto.  A  feast  of  good  things  is  in  store,  an  instalment  of 
whioJi  is  presented  herewith.  Our  accommodations  are 
ample,  and  every  present  guest  is  invited  to  bring  along 
a  friend  or  two,  to  enjoy  and  to  profit  by  what  may  be 
spread  out  before  them  in  our  pages  during  18G5. 


$200  for  Information  about 

HOES  _A.INI> 

The  great  demand  for  practical  information  upon  the 
culture  of  Flax  and  Hops,  has  induced  the  Publisher  of 
the  Am.  Agriculturist  to  offer  the  following  cash  prizes: 
FLAX  CULTURE. 


For  the  Best  Essay,  as  described  below . $50  DO. 

For  the  second  best  do.  do . .  25  OO. 

For  the  next  best  Jive  Essays,  ($10  each) .  50  00. 

The  essays  should  not  exceed  20  pages  of  foolscap 
each,  and  should  be  written  on  one  side  of  the  paper  only. 
HOP  CULTURE. 

For  the  Best  Essay,  as  described  below . $40  00. 

For  the  second  best  do.  do .  20  00. 

For  the  third  best  do.  do .  15  00. 


The  essays  should  not  exceed  15  pages  of  foolscap 
each,  and  should  be  written  on  one  side  of  the  paper  only. 

Those  will  be  considered  best  which  give  the  greatest 
amount  of  information,  clearly  expressed,  in  the  smallest 
space,  including  all  necessary  items  from  preparing 
the  ground  to  marketing  the  crop  ,  in  short,  such  informa¬ 
tion  as  is  desirable  for  novices  in  the  business.  The 
pamphlets  on  tobacco  .and  onion  culture,  published  at  this 
office,  will  indicate  what  is  wanted.  The  essays  should 
be  accompanied  by  drawings  or  sufficiently  clear  expla¬ 
nations,  so  that  when  published  they  may  be  illustrated 
by  engravings  as  fully  as  can  be  desired. 

The  Essays  must  be  received  at  the  Office  of  the  Ameri¬ 
can  Agriculturist  before  the  15th  day  of  January,  1865  ; 
the  name  and  Post  Office  address  of  the  writer  to  accom¬ 
pany  each  in  a  sealed  envelope.  They  must  be  written 
by  practical  men.  Good  information  from  experienced 
men  will  be  considered  of  more  value  than  mere  literary 
style,  which,  if  necessary,  can  be  amended  by  the  editors. 
All  manuscripts  offered  will  be  considered  the  property 
of  the  publisher,  one  or  more  to  be  printed  in  the  Amer. 
Agriculturist,  and  if  desirable,  in  a  book  or  pamphlet  form. 
If  used  in  the  latter  way,  half  a  dozen  copies  of  the  publi¬ 
cation  will  be  presented  to  the  writer  of  each  essay  con¬ 
tained  therein.  The  essays  will  be  submitted  for  c.are- 
ful  examination  and  for  the  award  of  prizes,  to  the  best 
Committee  of  practical  men  that  can  be  obtained. 


Is  it  Worth  a  “York  Shilling  !” 


The  highest  cost  of  this  number  to  single  .subscribers 
is  a  “York  shilling,”  (12>i  cents),  and  currency  at  that 
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through  the  whole  of  this  January  number,  for  example 
—at  the  scores  of  items  and  articles,  and  at  the  thirty  or 
more  engravings,  and  then  say  whether  the  shilling  or 
less  that  it  cost,  was  well  invested.  We  know  what  tlie 
verdict  will  be.  The  Publisher  would  be  glad  to  have 
each  reader  show  the  paper  to  a  neighbor  who  has  not 
taken  it,  and  explain  to  him  what  the  paper  is,  and  wh.at 
it  costs.  There  are  eleven  numbers  more  to  come  lids 
year,  and  no  one  of  them  to  be  of  less  value  than  (his. 
Please  help  us  roll  up  the  list  of  those  who  wi  ;1  be 
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larger  the  list,  the  better  for  all.  Take  an  illustration  : 
That  beautiful  engraving  on  page  16,  costs  more 
than  all  we  will  receive  for  1,000  copies  ;  yet  we  car. 
afford  such  things,  when  the  cost  can  be  divided  among  a 
hundred  thousand  or  more.  The  more  there  are  to  share 
the  expense,  the  more  can  we  do  for  all,  and  this  is  a 
strong  reason  why  it  is  advantageous  to  concentrate  the 
mass  of  readers  upon  a  few  leading  journals.  Will  the 
reader  please  help  swell  the  list  by  adding  a  name  or  two  ? 


Money  I.etters— Curiosities  of  One 
Bay’s  Mall  . — Allusion  has  frequently  been  made  tc 
the  letters  received  at  the  office  of  the  American  Agricultu¬ 
rist  containing  subscriptions,  without  giving  the  addresses 
of  the  subscribers,  and  to  those  which  ,say  “address  as 
before,”  “as  usual,”  “address  unchanged,”  etc.  A  few 
days  since,  to  satisfy  curiosity,  an  account  was  kept  and 
we  found  32  money  letters  in  which  no  Post-office  ad¬ 
dress  was  given  ;  2  without  signature  ;  1  without  signa¬ 
ture  or  address  (in  this  letter  the  name  of  a  town  was  men¬ 
tioned  but  the  postmark  was  different),  1  unsealed  and 
the  money  safe,  and  1  was  unsealed  but  the  money  gone. 
Such  letters  are  received  by  the  thousand  in  the 
course  of  a  year,  but  an  account  of  those  received  in  any 
one  day  has  never  before  been  taken.  If  the  writers  of 
these  letters  all  receive  their  papers,  they  must  thank  the 
very  persevering  gentlemen  in  charge  of  subscription 
books,  and  the  kindness  of  sundry  postmasters  who  lake 
much  pains  to  ascertain  for  us  the  omitted  information. 


The  Atlvertiseiucnf s— How  far  En¬ 
dorsed.— Our  readers  understand  that  a  considerable 
class  of  advertisements  are  rejected  from  this  paper,  and 
many  have  hence  concluded  that  every  advertisement 
inserted  is  indorsed  by  us.  This  is  partly  tiue  and  partly 
not.  While  we  shut  out  humbugs,  patent  medicines, 
etc.,  we  insert  the  advertisements  of  articles  concerning 
the  utility  of  which  we  differ  in  opinion  with  otliers,  as 
for  example,  books  on  Phrenology  and  other  “ ologies.” 
certain  classes  of  fertilizers,  etc.  Our  rule  amounts 
to  about  this ;  Things  positively  reprehensible  are 
excluded.  Next  we  shut  out  all  parties  whom  we 
have  reason  to  believe  will  not  do  just  what  they  adver¬ 
tise  to  do  ;  in  other  words,  we  admit  only  those  we  would 
be  willing  to  patronize  and  to  forward  money  to  if  we 
wanted  anything  in  their  line,  of  the  kind  and  quality, 
and  at  the  price  advertised. — The  readers  will  find  it  pro¬ 
fitable  to  look  through  all  the  advertisements  carefully, 
and  see  what  is  for  sale,  by  whom,  and  at  what  prices. 
When  ordering,  or  sending  fora  circular  or  catalogue, 
please  always  state  where  the  advertisement  was  seen, 
both  as  a  source  of  gratification  to  the  advertisers  and 
as  an  assurance  to  them  of  confidence  in  their  upright 
dealing  from  the  fact  of  their  advertising  in  this  journal. 
-  ■  - - 

^mtritan  ^grittillurist. 

For  the  Farm,  Garden,  and  Household- 

A  THOROUQH-QOINO,  RELIABLE,  and  PRACTICAL 
Journal,  devoted  ^o  the  different  departments  of  SOIL 
CULTURE— such  as  growing  field  CROPS  ;  orchard 
and  garden  FRUITS;  garden  VEGETABLES  and 
FLOWERS;  trees,  plants,  and  flowers  for  the 
LAWN  or  YARD;  care  of  DOMESTIC  ANIMALS, 
etc.,  and  to  HOUSEHOLD  LABORS,  with  an  interesting, 
instructive  department  for  CHILDREN  and  YOUTH. 

The  Editors  are  all  practical  WORKING  MEN. 

The  teachings  of  the  Agriculturist  are  conjined  to  no 
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country — it  is  for  the  whole  American  Continent. 

TERMS  (in  advance).  $1.50  per  year;  Four 
Copies  one  year  for  $5  ;  Ten  Copies  one  year  for  $12} 
Twenty  or  more  Copies  one  year  for  $1  each. 

[^’’Add  to  the  above  rates:  Postage  to  C.anada,  12  cents; 
to  England  and  France,  24  cents  ;  to  Germany,  36  cents, 

Postage  anywhere  in  the  United  States  and  Territories 
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quarter,  if  paid  in  advance  at  the  office  where  it  is  received. 
Address  communications  to  the  Publisher  and  Proprietor, 
ORANGE  JUDD,  41  Park-Row.  New-York 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  THE 

ITariii,  Grarden,  and.  Honseliold. 

"AORIOULTCUE  18  THE  MOST  IIEAETIIFCL,  MOST  USEFUL,  AJfl»  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OP  MAN.”-W»iBi»oTOK, 


ORAI^O^  A.M., 

PUBLISHES  AND  PBOPBIETOR. 
OJBce,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Bundl»gs.) 


ESTABLISHED  IH  1842, 

Pablished  both  in  Rnslish  and  German. 


SI. 50  PEE  ANNUM,  IN  ADVANCE 
SINGLE  NUMBER,  15  CENTS. 
For  Contents,  Terms,  etc.,  see  page  64. 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  2. 


NEW- YORK,  FEBRUARY,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  217. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1864,  by 
Obangk  Judd,  in  tlie  Clerk’s  Office  of  tlie  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  tlie  Southern  District  of  New-Tork. 
{f3?~  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  i/each  article  be  credited  to  Amey-ican  Agriculturist, 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  February. 


Winter  wanes  slowly.  The  early  riser  finds 
the  dawn  gradually  encroaching  on  the  pro¬ 
longed  darkness ;  here  and  there  an  untimely 
lamb  sends  forth  a  piteous  wail,  and  occasion¬ 
ally  an  hour  of  sunshine  speaks  warmly  of  ad¬ 
vancing  spring;  but  lowering  clouds  and  fitful 
storms  quickly  warn  the  impatient  buds  to  bide 
their  time  and  not  trust  the  apparently  relent¬ 
ing  heart  of  winter.  These  hints  of  the  coming 
season  should  not  be  lost.  If  a  full  plau  of 
operations  for  the  year  be  not  perfected,  lose  no 
time  in  its  completion.  A  map  of  the  farm  will 
be  of  great  assistance  in  this  work.  It  need  not 
be  an  accurate  survey  of  each  lot,  though  this 
would  be  more  satisfactory ;  a  plain  outline  of 
boundaries  and  measurements  taken  with  a 
marked  pole,  will  be  sufficient.  Great  caution 
should  be  exercised  in  making  radical  changes. 
Many  have  been  tempted  by  the  high  price  of 
sheep  to  sell  out  an  established  dairy,  or  to  seed 
down  their  green  fields,  and  are  up  to  their 
eyes  in  wool,  if  indeed  it  has  not  been  pulled 
over  their  eyes.  An  article  on  this  topic  in  the 
present  number  contains  timely  hints.  Equally 
unwise  is  an  immovable  conservatism,  that  can 
not  be  attracted  from  following  the  “  good  old 
ways.”  Many  will  find  sorghum  culture  worth 
a  trial;  an  acre  or  more  of  roots  for  next 
winter’s  feeding  should  not  be  forgotten;  per¬ 
haps  less  grain  and  more  fruit  will  give  better 
returns.  The  most  successful  campaigns  are 
always  first  developed  on  paper  in  good  plans. 

Animals  of  most  kinds  kept  on  farms  at  the 
North  are  in  an  artificial  condition,  to  which 
however  they  have  become  habituated  by  long 
training.  It  should  be  the  aim  of  the  owner  to 
make  their  circumstances  as  nearly  natural  as 
the  case  will  permit.  Thus,  succulent  food,  in 


the  shape  of  roots,  should  accompany  dry  fodder; 
shelter  should  not  preclude  fresh  air;  oppor¬ 
tunities  for  exercise  should  be  allowed  ;  warm 
litter  for  comfortable  rest  is  essential ;  in  short, 
comfort  and  profit  are  almost  inseparable.  The 
morals  of  the  stock  yard  should  be  carefully 
watched.  A  vicious  horse  or  unruly  steer  is 
intolerable.  Prevention  is  easy ;  train  up  young 
animals  with  kindness,  and  they  will  return  it 
with  interest ;  send  to  the  slaughter  pen  incorri¬ 
gible  brutes,  though  made  so  by  bad  managemeut. 

Advertisements  are  profitable  reading.  They 
usually  Indicate  what  progress  the  world  is 
making.  To  farmers  they  are  invaluable. 
Notes  on  tools,  seeds,  stock,  ti’ces,  plants,  etc., 
should  be  made,  and  further  inform.ation  gained 
by  sending  for  circulars  of  trustworthy  parties. 
The  Agriculturist  aims  to  admit  no  otlier  class. 

Ashes,  fresh  from  the  fire,  should  not  he  emp¬ 
tied  into  wooden  smoke-houses.  A  lew  smould¬ 
ering  sparks  may  he  sufficient  to  fire  the  struc¬ 
ture,  destroy  its  contents,  and  cause  great  loss ; 
at  least  the  lower  part  should  be  brick  or  stone. 

Apples. — Sort  over  those  commencing  to  decay 
and  feed,  if  no  better  use  can  be  made  of  them. 

Rags,  Barrels,  Baskets,  etc.,  used  for  marketing, 
or  kept  at  home,  should  be  plainlj’  marked  with 
the  owner’s  name  and  residence.  A  branding- 
iron  or  marking-plate  and  brush,  will  save  much 
loss.  Improve  leisure  by  putting  all  in  repair. 
For  convenient  bag-string,  see  p.  139,  last  }'-ear. 

Buildings. — Clear  roofs  from  too  heavy  snow, 
stop  leaks,  keep  eaves-troughs  free,  paint  wliere 
needed,  fasten  loose  boards,  keep  manure  away 
from  sills,  oil  rusty  hinges,  see  that  fastenings 
are  in  order,  and  all  repairs  promptly  made. 
Get  out  timber  for  sheds  sufficient  to  shelter  all 
stock.  Study  economy  and  convenience  in  plans. 

Birds. — Prepare  neat  houses  for  martins, 
bluebirds,  and  wrens,  to  be  put  up  about  the 
house,  fruit  yard,  and  farm.  The  occupants 
next  season  will  pay  good  rent  by  destroying 
multitudes  of  insects,  and  sing  grateful  thanks. 

Butter  brings  golden  prices;  make  the  pro¬ 
duct  of  the  same  color,  with  carrots  strained 
into  the  milk  through  the  stomach  of  the  cow. 

Calves  dropped  in  February  will  bring  large 
Drices  in  March,  but  at  present  prices  of  butter 
and  milk,  will  cost  largely  to  fat.  If  to  be 
raised,  wean  early,  and  feed  well  with  skimmed 
milk,  clover  tea  and  gruel.  Keep  well  shelter¬ 
ed.  Wheat  flour  boiled  in  milk  checks  scours. 

Cows. — Dry  off  six  to  four  weeks  before  calv¬ 
ing.  Give  generous  feed  of  hay  and  roots,  but 
not  much  grain.  Cut  hay  or  straw  steamed, 
and  a  little  bran  or  meal  added,  is  profitable. 
Keep  the  skin  healthy  by  frequent  carding  and 
brusliing.  Those  about  to  calve  should  be 
turned  loose  into  separate,  roomy  stalls.  Watch 
their  time,  to  give  assistance,  if  needed,  but  do 
not  interfej’e,  unless  absolutely  necessary,  and 
then  use  gentle  means.  Allow  the  calf  to  have 


the  milk  /or  a  day  or  two.  Its  effect  is  medi¬ 
cinal  and  necessary  to  the  new-born  animal. 
After  calving,  give  the  cow  a  warm  bran 
mash,  made  with  scalding  water,  and  afterward 
her  ordinary  feed,  increasing  the  amount  of 
roots  and  grain  to  promote  the  flow  of  milk, 
and  prevent  the  exhaustion  of  the  animal. 

Dehts  contracted  before  the  war  can  now  be 
paid  at  half  price;  that  is,  owing  to  high  prices 
half  the  produce  required  then  will  suffice  now. 
Lift  mortgages  rather  tlian  buy  carriages  or 
other  non-essentials.  A  pinching  lime  will  come. 

Dogs. — Unite  with  j’our  neiglihors  in  urging 
your  representatives  at  the  Legislature  to  pro¬ 
tect  sheep  raising  from  tlie  ravages  of  destruc¬ 
tive  curs,  by  strong  laws.  See  article  on  page  42. 

Farmers'  Clubs. — The  meetings  may  be  rr.ade 
interesting  by  committees  appointed  to  investi¬ 
gate  and  report  on  various  subjects;  as  new 
crops  proposed,  new  implements,  the  conditiim 
of  farms  in  the  vicinity,  etc. ;  by  correspondence 
with  other  similar  associations,  and  occasional 
joint  meetings  of  the  clubs  of  a  township.  New 
facts  and  experience  worthy  of  general  notice, 
should  be  communicated  to  the  public  journals. 

Food  for  cattle  and  hogs  will  be  improved 
and  economized  by  steaming.  A  good  appara¬ 
tus,  especially  for  this  purpose,  will  pay  wliere 
many  animals  are  kept.  A  large  kettle  will  do. 

Grain. — Carefully  study  price  lists,  and  im¬ 
prove  good  weather  for  marketing  produce. 

Horses. — A  few  carrots  with  their  grain  will 
aid  digestion  and  appetite,  and  improve  their 
coats.  Exercise  daily.  Train  colts  so  that  no 
breaking  will  be  needed,  either  of  spirit  or  of 
harness.  Keep  working  and  carriage  horses 
sharp  shod,  well  groomed,  and  blanketed  when 
standing  out,  or  in  cold  stables  after  exercise. 
Ventilate  stables,  and  abolish  high  feeding  racks. 

Ice. — Secure  a  full  supply,  if  not  already 
done.  In  good  weather  an  ice-house  may  be 
made  and  filled  within  a  week.  One  will  pay 
on  a  dairy  farm,  and  be  convenient  everywhere. 

Manure. — Mix  plenty  of  muck,  especially  with 
that  from  the  horse  stable,  to  prevent  fire  fling¬ 
ing  ;  or,  in  absence  of  this,  fork  over  the  pile  to 
prevent  too  great  heat.  All  deposits  now  made 
in  readiness  for  use  in  spring,  will  respond  to 
drafts  to  be  made  for  good  crops  next  fall.  Keep 
a  heavy  balance  in  your  favor  to  draw  upon. 

Money  lent  to  tlie  government  on  its  bonds, 
repays  good  interest,  is  safe,  and  may  be  readily 
called  in  under  any  emergency,  in  addition  to 
furnishing  strength  for  crushing  the  rebellion 
and  securing  permanent  peace  and  prosperity. 

Maple  Sugar. — Tlie  higli  price  of  sugar  should 
stimulate  the  largest  possible  production.  The 
first  flow  of  sap  is  the  ricliest ;  make  prepara¬ 
tion  to  secure  it  during  the  open  weather,  which 
often  occurs  in  February.  See  article  on  p.  40. 

Poultry.  —Insist  on  having  eggs.  W arm,  clean 
quarters,  cooked  grain  and  potatoes,  scrans  of 


S4 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[Feekuart, 


meat,  Dowdercd  bones,  or  lime,  gravel,  ashes  and 
warm  water,  are  the  convincing  arguments. 

Jiovls. — Sort  over,  remove  det-ayed  ones  to  be 
«ooked  and  fed  immediately,  and  keep  a  supply  of 
the  soundest  for  breeding  a»imals,  or  those  failing- 
in  appetite,  as  spring  approaches.  No  decayed 
turnips,  rutabagas,  or  cabbages  should  be  fed  to 
milch  cows, or  bad  flavor  will  be  imparted  to  the  milk. 

Sheep. — Exercise  and  fresh  air  are  essenti-al  to 
tlieir  health.  Shelters  must  be  well  ventilated,  not 
crowded,  and  the  sheep  turned  out  daily,  except  in 
severe  storms.  Roots,  fed  with  grain,  will  be  re¬ 
turned  in  wool  and  mutton.  Pregnant  ewes  should 
have  little  if  any  grain,  but  roots  with  hay.  Those 
yeaning  early  ivill  need  separate,  clean,  not  over¬ 
littered  apartments,  and  careful  attention,  that  the 
lambs  be  not  fatally  chilled.  See  pages  42,  43. 

Swim. — Keep  them  at  work  among  the  muck  and 
manure.  Allow  breeding  sows,  near  farrowing, 
j)otatoes  or  other  succulent  food,  with  bran  or  lin¬ 
seed  meal.  Give  them  clean,  well  littered  sties,  but 
not  straw  enough  to  endanger  the  young  by  over¬ 
laying  of  the  mother.  A  projecting  shelf,  eight 
Inches  high,  on  the  sides  of  the  pen,  will  allow  the 
pigs  to  escape  much  danger  from  this  source. 

Tools  and  Implements. — Have  all  in  repair  and 
readiness  for  spring  w'ork.  In  tlie  end,  buying  is 
cheaper  than  borrowing.  Consult  advertisements, 
send  for  catalogues  and  circulars  for  information 
about  new  implements,  and  always  get  the.  best. 

Wood. — Save  many  late  dinners,  and  much  need¬ 
less  scolding,  and  annoyance  in  the  household,  by 
having  a  year’s  stock  cut  and  stored  under  cover. 


Work  in  tlse  Orclisird  siinl  Mi!rsei’.v. 
— Read  over  the  notes  of  last  month,  and  see  if 
there  is  not  some  hint  there  given  that  may  be  fol¬ 
lowed  with  advantage.  The  season  precludes  much 
in  the  way  of  work,  but  allows  time  for  abundant 
planning.  Do  not  postpone  selecting  fruit  trees, 
and  sending  orders,  beyond  this  month.  Take  ad- 
v.antage  of  a  damp,  warm,  spell,  if  one  occurs  this 
month,  to  give  old  trees  a  good  washing  and  scrap¬ 
ing.  A  thorough  application  of  soft  soap,  made 
thin  enough  with  water  to  work  with  a  broom,  will 
be  death  to  insects  and  moss,  and  vvill  make  the 
old  trunk  look  like  a  new  one.  Continue  root  graft¬ 
ing,  cut  cions,  and  look  after  seeds  stored  in  sand 
for  spring  planting;  sec  that  mice  do  not  trouble 
them.  Among  other  applications  to  prevent  rabbits 
from  gnawing  trees,  we  find  a  wash  made  with 
lime  and  strong  tobacco  water  recommended.  Ap¬ 
ply  a  poultice  of  cow  dung  and  loam  to  barked  trees. 
Do  everything  now  that  will  save  a  day  in  April. 


Kitchen  fSsirdeii. — Generally  the  gard¬ 
ens  are,  during  this  month,  covered  with  snow,  or 
frozen  so  hard  that  nothing  can  be  done.  The 
work  of  preparation  hinted  at  last  month,  ought 
not  to  be  forgotten,  and  everything  that  can  be 
done  in  gettingtools,  seeds,  manures  and  ail  imple¬ 
ments  in  readiness,  should  be  -well  attended  to. 

In  family  gardens  it  is  not  necessary  to  start  the 
hot-bed  until  next  month,  but  where  very  early 
vegetables  are  required  it  may  be  done  sooner. 
The  market  gardeners  around  New  York  start  their 
hot-beds  about  the  middle  or  end  of  February. 
The  plants  are,  however,  transplanted  into  other 
beds,  or  potted  and  kept  under  glass  until  the 
weather  allows  them  to  he  put  into  open  ground. 
Six  weeks  in  advance  of  the  time  at  which  the 
plants  can  be  set  out,  is  a  safe  rule  for  the  hot-bed 
in  the  family  garden.  Stable  manure  is  the  main 
reliance  as  a  heating  material,  but  may  be  mixed 
with  leaves  or  spent  hops  from  the  breweries. 
Sash  6  feet  long  and  about  3  feet  wide,  are  usually 
employed,  but  the  width  is  governed  by  the  size  of 
glass.  The  frame  is  of  stout  boards  or  plank,  1  foot 
high  at  front  and  2  or  2X  feet  at  back,  and  of  a 
sufficient  length  to  accommodate  2,  3,  or  more 
sashes.  A  detailed  description  was  given  in  March 
last.  The  bed  of  manure  should  be  at  least  18 
Inches  wider  and  longer  than  the  frame,  and  built 
up  at  least  2  feet  high,  tlie  manure  being  spread 
evenly,  and  made  compact  by  beating  the  layers 
down  with  the  fork.  Set  on  tlie  frame,  and  put  in 


6  inches  of  rich  earth,  which  should  have  been 
made  ready  last  fall.  The  temperature  of  the  bed 
will  at  first  be  too  violent,  and  the  sash  must  be 
raised  during  the  day  for  several  days.  When  the 
temperature  moderates  to  about  70°  the  seed  may 
be  sown.  The  manure,  by  using  it  for  a  hot-bed, 
is  brought  into  most  excellent  condition  for  appli¬ 
cation  to  the  garden  later  in  the  season. 

Forcing  of  Asparagus  and  Rhubarb  may  be  prac¬ 
ticed  by  those  who  have  the  conveniences.  Roots 
of  eitlier  ma}'  be  placed  in  a  hot-bed,  or  fermenting 
dung  may  be  placed  around  them  where  they  stand 
in  the  beds.  We  have  seen  excellent  rhubarb  stalks 
from  roots  placed  in  a  barrel  in  a  wai-in  cellar. 

Dig  Horseradish,  Parsnips,  and  Salsify  whenever 
the  ground  is  open.  Lay  in  a  stock  of  seeds  for  the 
reason  suggested  on  page  53.  Haul  out  ma¬ 
nure  while  the  ground  is  still  hard. 

Fs’iiit  — The  out-cloor  work  is 

limited  to  few -things.  If  grape  vines  tvere  neglect¬ 
ed  last  autumn,  tisey  may  be  pruned  in  mild  weather 
this  month.  If  any  dwarf  trees  are  of  unsatisfac¬ 
tory  kind.s,  look  out  for  cions  of  choice  varieties  to 
graft  them  with.  Cuttings  of  currants  and  goose¬ 
berries  may  be  made  and  saved  in  the  cellar  until 
planting  time.  Pruning  d-vvarf  trees  may  be  done 
with  the  knife.  See  tliat  the  covering  of  straw¬ 
berry  bods  does  not  get  removed  by  the  storms. 


Flower  Gsircleis  simdi  — Make 

and  perfect  plans  for  the  improvement  of  the 
grounds.  Some  hints  for  front  yards  arc  given  on 
page  50.  Draw  all  plans  to  an  exact  scale.  Give 
air  to  plants  in  cold  frames  on  mild  days.  Prune 
and  thin  out  shrubbery  that  has  become  overgrown. 
Rhododendrons  and  other  broad-leaved  evergreens 
need  protection  from  the  great  alternations  of  tem¬ 
perature  which  occur  as  spring  approaches.  Ever¬ 
greens  must  not  be  allowed  to  break  down  from 
the  weiglit  of  snow.  Trellises,  vases,  and  other 
garden  ornaments  and  appli.ances  can  be  made  at 
leisure.  See  designs  given  last  month.  Hot-beds 
for  starting  annuals,  etc.,  should  be  prepared  for, 
but  next  month  will  be  early  enough  to  start  them. 


Green  and  IloS-IIoiises. — Admit  air 
freely  to  all  hard -wooded  plants,  -whenever  the 
atmosphere  is  clear  and  the  outside  temperature  is 
8  to  10  degrees  above  freezing.  During-  damp, 
foggy  spells,  a  little  fire  should  be  used,  even  if 
the  temperature  does  not  appear  to  require  it. 

Achimenes,  Gesneras  and  Gloxinias. — Place  some 
in  pots,  give  bottom  heat,  and  start  for  early  bloom. 

Azaleas  and  Camellias. — Those  intended  for  late 
blooming  should  be  kept  as  cool  as  possible,  with¬ 
out  injury  by  frost,  and  shaded.  Those  just  open¬ 
ing  their  buds,  put  in  warmer  part  of  the  house, 
and  give  manure  water.  They  repay  any  attention. 

Bulbs. — A  succession  of  flowers  should  be  kept 
up  These  will  like  liquid  manure. 

Cinerarias. — These  bloom  best  in  small  pots. 
Those  intended  to  bloom  later  should  be  kept 
growing,  by  shifting  them  to  larger  pots.  Give 
weak  manure  water  to  those  already  in  bloom. 

Deuizia  gracilis  a?id  Scabra. — These  hardy  shrubs 
make  fine  green-house  plants,  when  forced.  They 
need  a  warm  place  to  start  them. 

Blcenlra. — Plants  of  this  in  pots  may  be  brought 
into  a  warm  part  of  the  house,  and  they  -will  soon 
show  their  beautiful  bloom. 

Fuchsias. — Son-iC  of  these  may  be  started  for 
early  flowering  by  cutting  back  freely,  and  giving 
them  a  little  bottom  heat  at  first.  Do  not  repot 
until  they  have  made  a  new  growth. 

Imects. — Cleanliness  and  cultivation  will  do  much 
towards  keeping  them  down.  Crush  each  one  as 
soon  as  seen.  If  necessary  to  resort  to  fumigation, 
do  not  wait  until  they  have  half  killed  the  plant. 

Manure  Water. — This  is  beneficial  to  growing 
plants,  if  not  used  too  strong.  Half  a  bushel  of 
sheep  or  cow  droppings  to  a  liogshendof  water  will 
b@  strong  enough.  It  should  be  clear  when  used. 

Primulas. — The  Chinese  Primroses,  especially 
the  double  ones,  are  fine  ornaments  to  the  house. 


They  keep  longin  bloom, if  not  exposed  to  extremes 
of  temperature  and  are  benefited  by  manure  water 

Scarlet  Gei'aniums. — Old  plants  tvhich  have  been 
stored  away  for  the  winter  are  apt  to  oecoine  damp 
and  mouldy.  Remove  all  decayed  portions  and 
bring  to  a  drier  and  -warmer  place. 

Succule7its,  Bucli  as  Cactuses  and  Mesembryanthe- 
mums,  need  little  water,  except  they  are  growing. 

Water  only  when  the  soil  is  getting  dry,  and  then 
copiously  with  that  at  the  temperature  of  the  house. 

Apiary  Iia  Jain  iiary.— Prepared  %  M.  Quin- 
by. — If  the  weather  is  sufficiently  warm  for  the  bees 
to  come  out  when  there  is  a  newly  fallen  snow,  the 
directions  for  last  month  should  be  observed. 
Keep  open  the  air  passages.  Sweep  out  dead  bees 
and  filth,  whenever  all  frost  leaves  the  hive.  If  any 
stock  is  to  be  changed  to  a  new  stand,  arrange  it 
now  before  the  bees  fly  out  to  mark  their  present 
locality.  Place  stands  at  least  six  feet  apart  wliere- 
ever  there  is  room.  A  less  distance  is  allowable 
only  for  want  of  room,  or  -ivlsen  a  fertile  queen  can 
be  provided  for  swarming  hives.  Indeed,  orna¬ 
mental  bee-houses,  so  strongly  coveted  by  some, 
in  which  the  hives  are  set  quite  close  together,  can 
be  made  nearl}'-  as  profitable  as  any,  if  queens  are 
furnished  ;  but  the  movable  comb  liive  of  some 
kind  is  required  for  this  purpose.  When  standing 
thus,  the  hive  may  be  allowed  to  swarm,  and  seven 
days  afterward,  before  any  of  the  young  queens 
hatch,  the  royal  cells  should  be  removed,  and  the 
queen  introduced.  If  this  system  of  managenieiit 
is  contemplated  for  the  coming  season,  or  if  the 
Italians  are  to  be  ])ropagated,  the  boxes  for  raising 
queens  should  be  made  now.  Make  a  miniature 
iiive  less  than  six  inches  square,  of  the  pattern  ot 
any  movable  comb  hive  used,  and  containing  cot 
less  than  three  combs.  Fit  clean  worker  combs  in 
the  frames,  and  expose  to  severe  freezing,  to  kill 
all  moth  eggs  that  may  be  in  them.  For  method 
of  Italianizing  bees  in  box  hives,  see  page  43. 


Twenty  Good  Premiums 
For  Volsime  S4.— 1865. 


The  folio-wing  excellent  premiums  are  continued,  They 
are  worthy  of  strong  effort.  For  full  particulars,  see 
page  2nd  of  January  number.  There  is  no  change  in  the 
terms,  except  that  the  Book  list  of  tliis  month  (page  63,) 
is  to  be  referred  to  instead  of  that  of  last  month,  as  prices 
have  changed  somewhat. 


T'aWe  of  Premiums  and  Terms, 

For  Volume  24,  iS 

2.0 

Open  to  all— No  Competition.  S  ^ 

Adames  qf  Premium  ArUcles,  “ 

1—  Good  Books— terms  Ja-it  month. ....... 

2—  Case  of  Drawins  Insti-nments...........  $8  00 

3—  Best  Family  Clollies-Wringer .  $10  00 

4 —  Doty’s  Wasliins  Machine . $12  00 

.'5— Sewing  Machine,  CWheeler  &  Wilson). . $55  00 
B— Four  Octave  Melodeon  (best) .  $(5T  00 

7—  Five  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $112  00 

8—  Brown’s  Baby  Tender . . . $S0  00 

9—  Brown’s  B.aby  Tender . $42  00 

10—  Woodrutf’s  Mercurial  Barometer . $10  00 

11—  Woodruf!'’s  Mercurial  Barometer . $15  00 

Ig— The  Amiarins . $12  00 

13—  Ladies’ Rosewood  Writing  Desk . ....$12  00 

14—  Gentleman’s  do  do  do  .  . . $14  00 

I.’?— Any  back  Volume  Agriculturist,  j  .^'2  $150 
Ifi— Any  Two  do  do  do  g  s  $3  00 

17— Any  Three  do  do  do  !■  v-o  $4  50 

15—  Any  Four  do  do  do  (  ga  $6  00 

19—  Any  Five  do  do  do  J  ft,S  $7  50 

20—  Strawberry  Plants— ,568  Ter^na  last  month _ 


2  3 


eta 

S3 


60 

70 

SO 

S60 

400 

GOO 

m 

236 

70 

00 

SO 

80 

90 

20 

25 

SO 

40 

50 


Commercial  Kotes—Prices  Current. 


New-Yoek,  Jan.  20,  1S65. 

We  give  here-with  seven  very  condensed  and  conveni¬ 
ent  tables,  the  first  two  referring  to  llie  transactions  in 
the  New  York  markets  during  a  month  ending  January 
16,  to  which  date  they  are  made  up.  The.«e  tables  have 
been  carefully  prepared,  specially  for  the  Atnerican  Ag¬ 
riculturist,  from  official  and  other  reliable  sources,  in¬ 
cluding  tlie  note.s  of  onr  own  reporter.  They  will  be 
found  highly  intere.sting,  as  showing  the  cour.se  of  trade 
and  giving  a  general  view  of  tlie  condilion  of  our  bread¬ 
stuff  supplies.  They  will  also  be  valuable  for  reference 

in  after  years - During  the  p-ast  monlh,  tliere  lias  been 

little  noteworthy  in  the  Breadstuff  Markets.  The  prices 
have  varied  from  day  to  day,  with  the  rise  and  fall  ol 
gold.  The  price  table  herewilh,  shows  a  little  decline, 
and  as  gold  is  “  weak  ”  just  now,  rates  are  tending  down 
ward  rapidly.  The  same  is  tlie  case  with  otlier  prod-j  -e, 
cotton,  etc.  If  the  miliSarv  successes  continue  as  the* 


1805.] 


35 


AMERICAN  AGRKRJLTIJRIST. 

Ik  . . .  . . 


Jrromise  to  do,  gold  must  go  down  materially,  and  carry 
down  witli  it  the  prices  of  farm  produce,  dry  goods,  etc. 

1.  TKANSACriONS  AT  THE  NEU'-YORK  MARKETS. 

Keceipts.  Flour.  Wieal.  Corn.  Rue.  Darleij.  Oat's. 

28dayst/(!Sm’tli.231,000  11,000  137,000  10,.i00  24.000  173.000 

24daystotm’tli.4S7.o00  1,732,000  817,000  03,000  683,000  2,643,000 

Salks.  Flour.  Wheat.  Com.  Rye.  Barley. 

28(iays<AtsmontIi,  267.000  461,000  884.000  83,300  141,000 
24  days  iastmonth,  416,000  1,061,000  635,000  104,000  434,000 

ft.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
BSCKiPTs.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats 

28  days  1863..  ..231.000  11,000  137,000  10.500  24,000  178,000 

24  days  1864 . 232,000  11,300  96,000  7,500  58,500  273,000 

Salks.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley 

28  days  1863 .  267.000  461,000  881.000  33,500  141,000 

24  days  1864 .  297,500  2,573,000  1,467,000  29,000  102,700 

3«  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  January  20. 

Flour,  'Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Oats, 

bbls.  bus.  bus.  bus.  bus. 

1865 .  47,742  43,834  5,530  141  1,823 

1864 .  90,384  633,800  4,793  -  047 

4«  Exports  from  New-  York  during  each  of  6  years  past. 
Flour,  Wheat, 
bbls.  bus. 

1864.. .. 1.918.592. 12,193,433 

1803.. .. 2.327.338. 15,424,889 

1802. .  .  .2,961,518  23,564,755 

1861.. .  3,110,346  28,898.314 

1860.. ..  1,926,202  13,338,039 

1859.. ..  038,516  297,587 


Corn, 

bus. 


Rye, 
bus. 
846,831  588 

7,.53:S,431  416,369 
12,020,848  1,041,549 
12,889,850  1,000,403 
4,0&5,082  450 

497,886  - 


Barley, 

bus. 

150 

52,439 

42,061 

3,927 

8,280 

6.550 


Oats, 

bus. 

42,133 

120,556 

210,069 

100,825 

103,070 

2,508 


5. 


Stock  of  Flour  in  New-York  City,  January  I. 

„  1863.  1863.  1864.  1865. 

Western  Canal  Flour,  bbls . 447,036  721,3,83  537,057  463.835 

Canadian  Flour,  bbls .  11,100  2,403  15,100  4,950 

Southern  Flour,  bbls . 36,056  23,500  33,100  37,403 


Total. 


.495,112  732,288  607,257  508,248 


6. 


Stock  of  Grain  in  New-York,  January  !. 

1861.  1863.  1863.  1864.  186,'». 

Wheat,  bushels . 8,535,741  2,046,052  4,734,817  5,540, <444  1,807,356 

Corn,  bushels . 2,712,000  5,373,911  4,223,013  1,731,320  464,414 

Kye,  bushels .  26,400  58,.500  32,270  37,409  212,298 

Barley,  bushels .  109,374  43,5,4T2  99,835  584,700  304,104 

Oats,  busliels .  49-4,790  774.575  531,312  3,541,830  3,018,301 

1,  Receipts  of  Breadstuff's  at  Albany,  hy  the  Erie  and 
Champlain  Canals  in  each  of  the  last  Jive  seasons. 

Flour,  Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Barle}',  Oats, 

bbl.  bush.  bush.  bush.  bush.  bush. 

1860  . 1,149,100  11,176,000  14,1,5,5,500  322,100  2,967,600  6,490,900 

1861  . 1,493,2.38  39,886,687  23,312,334  832,792  2,235,8.50  5,978,333 

1862  . 1,8-26,609  32,067,866  23,809.832  748,897  2,562,639  3,990,0'28 

1863  . 1,560,800  22.206,900  20,603,600  470,500  3,190,500  12,438,500 

1864  . 1,184,300  15,465,600  10,352,400  620,300  2,405,900  12,177,500 

CuKRKMT  Wholesale  Prices. 

Dec.  16. 

Flouk— Super  to  Extra  State  $9  83 

Super,  to  Extra  Southern _ 10  83 

Extra  Western .  10  23 

Extra  Genesee .  10  60 

Superllne  Western .  9  85 

Ryk  Flour .  8  50 

CoR.Y  Meal . 7  75 

WuEAT— All  kinds  of  White. .  2  50 

All  kinds  of  Red .  2  23 

Coen— Yellow .  1  70 

Mixed . . .  190 


30 
80 
24 
5  73 


Gats— Western. 

State . 

Rye . 

Barley . . 

CoTTOk— Middlings,  per  lb... . 

Hops,  crop  of  1864,  per  lb . 

F'eathers,  Live  Geese,  p.  lb.. 

Seed— Clover,  per  lb . 

Timothy,  per  bushel . 

Flax,  per  bushel .  3  43 

Sugar— Brown,  per  lb . 

MoLASsES.New-Orleans,  p.gl.. 

Coffee.  Rio,  per  lb . . 

Tou.acco— Kentuclvy,&c,p.lb.. 

Seed  Leaf,  per  lb .  16 

Wool— Domestic  lleece,p.  lb..  90 

Domestic,  pulled,  per  lb .  70 

California,  unwashed .  23 

Tallow,  per  lb .  17] 

Oil  Cake,  per  tun .  80  50 


@10  60 
@13  00 
@13  50 
@13  23 
@10  10 
@  9  50 
@  8  60 
@  2  75 
@  2  52'A 
®  2  00 
@  1  91 
@  1  07 
@  1  04 
@ 

1  73  @  2  00 
1  32  @1  33 

@  52M 
®  82 
@  23 

®  6  122^ 
@  3  70 
165f@  24>^ 

1  10  @  1  21 A 
44K@  ■ 

12A® 

■"  ® 


1  06 
1  03 
1  72 


Jan.  20. 
50  @10  40 
50  @15  00 
10  @13  00 
50  @13  00 
50  @  9  83 
25  @  9  25 
75  @  9  00 
50  @  2  70 
20  @  2  5224 
80  ®  1  82 
83  ®  1  90 
06  @  1  07 
03  @  1  06 
63  @  I  70 
83  @  2  05 
98  @  1  00 
23  @  5224 

@  80 
23  @  26 

5  75  @  7  00 
3 


48 

40 

65 

1  1'2A 
1  0224 
6724 


@92  50 
@41  50 
@36  50 
@21  30 


Pork— Mess,  per  bbl .  37  50 

Prime,  per  bbl .  35  00 

Beef— Plain  mess .  18  50 

Lard,  in  bbls.,  per  lb  . 

Butter— -Western,  per  lb . 

State,  per  lb . 

Cheese . 

Beans—  per  bushel . 

Peas— Canada,  per  Bushel... 

Eggs— Fresh,  per  dozen . 

Poultry— Fowls,  per  lb . 

Turkeys,  per  lb . 

Potatoes— Mercers,  p.  bbl... . 

Peach  Blow,  per  bbl . 

Apples— per  bbl . 

Apples,  R.  1.  Greenings  per  bbl  3  73  @  5  50 
Apples- Russets,  per  bbl .  3  75  ®  4  50 


@  3  a5 
I’t  @  23 

1  30  @  1  50 
42  @  46 

1224®  40 

16  @  65 

90  @  1  1224 
7224®  1  0224 
25  @  65 

1624®  1724 

3  00  @80  00 
0  50  @41  50 
3  50  @  34  00 


21 

@ 

2424 

20 

® 

24 

35 

@ 

50 

35 

@ 

48 

45 

® 

58 

45 

@ 

60 

15 

@ 

24 

15 

® 

24 

2  75 

@  5 

!  90 

3  00 

®  3  50 

Nominal. 
37  @  42 

18  @  21 


20 
3  00 
2  73 


@  23 

@  3  75 
"  3  00 


2  20  @  2  33 

45  @  50 

15  @  22 

18  @  24 

3  50  ®  3  00 
3  00  @  3  30 

5  00  @  7  00 

6  00  @7  00 
5  00  @  5  50 


i^.  Y.  S.iive  Stocic  Markets. — ISccf 
Cattle  have  been  less  abundant,  averaging  4,942  head 
per  week,  or  1,566  less  than  in  previous  month,  with 
small  supply  Jan.  17.  Prices  range  at  21c.®23c.  per  Ib, 
estimated  dressed  weight,  for  best  or  extras  ;  19c.®20c. 
for  very  good  ;  and  so  down  to  14c.  for  the  poorest. 
Average  of  all  sales  1524c.  or  16c. 

Mild*  Cows. — Averao;e  weekly  receipts  6.3, 
■with  small  demand.  Very  good  milkers  $70®$9o.  Ex¬ 
tras,  $100  and  upwards.  Common  to  poor,  $65®$45  eacli. 

Veal  Cal-vcs  are  in  less  supply,  averaging 
511  per  week,  and  liigliertliis  week.  The  best  I3c.ffll4c. 
&.  live  weight,  and  Ihence  down  to  10c.  for  poor. 

Slteep  come  in  freely  for  the  sea.son,  averatriuo- 
14,594  per  week.  With  a  good  demand  the  last  sales 
were  14c  per  lb.  live  W'eight  for  extras  ;  the  poorest  924c. ; 
otlier  grades  between  these  figures,  according  to  quality. 

B-iive  ISog-s  not  abundant,  receipts  averaging 
•itlv  11.962  pe- week  for  the  month  past.  Last  sales  at 


14g.®  i424c.  per  lb.  live  weiglit  for  best  corn-fed  ;  13®14c. 
for  inferior  to  good  corn-fed;  11c.  for  poorest  still-fed. 


Live  Stock  Trade  in  H.  Y.  City,  for  1864. 


As  a  matter  of  general  interest,  and  for  future  refer¬ 
ence,  we  give  our  ususal  summary  of  the  Live  Stock 
Trade  during  the  past  year,  taken  from  the  records  of 
our  own  reporters  who  have  been  at  the  piincipal  mark¬ 
ets  every  Monday  and  Tuesday,  the  regular  days  of  sale. 
Tliese  figures  we  have  already  furnished  to  otlier  jour¬ 
nals,  but  repeat  tliern  here  for  the  benefit  of  the  readers 
of  tlie  American  A griculturist,  and  to  thus  preserve  ttiem 
in  a  permanent  form.  The  principal  places  of  sale  are 
at  Allerton’s  Yards  on  44th-street,  near  4th  Avenue;  at 
Brownings  and  O’Brien’s,  on  6th-street,  near  3d  Avenue  ; 
at  Chamberlin’s,  on  Robinson-slreet,  -West  of  tlie  City 
Hall;  at  the  Bergen  Yards  just  over  the  Hudson  river, 
wliere  they  are  landed  from  tlie  Erie  Railroad  ;  and  at 
the  Western  Hog  1'ards,  foot  of  40th-street,  on  tlie  Hud¬ 
son.  Our  tables  include  only  the  receipts  at  these  regu¬ 
lar  market  places.  Many  Calves  ami  Slicep  are  sold 
from  barges  at  tlie  wharves,  and  some  animals  of  all 
kinds  are  taken  directly  to  the  butcliers.  These  are 
probably  balanced  by  lliose  taken  out  of  the  city  again 
on  Government  account  and  by  farmers,  and  by  butch¬ 
ers  in  neighboring  towns  and  cities,  so  tliat  our  figures 
below  give  a  fair  stiowing  of  tlie  actual  consumption  for 
food  and  for  packing  purposes,  in  New-York  and  its  sub¬ 
urbs,  Brooklyn,  and  Jersey  City.  First  we  liave  the 


WEEKLY  RECEIPTS  OF  LIVE  ANIMALS  FOR  1864. 


Week 

^efs  of 

Net 

dJilch 

Veal 

Sheep 

1  TAce 

ending 

Ca'tle. 

Price. 

owa. 

Calves. 

<&  L'bs. 

Hogs. 

Jan.  5. . . . 

4,022 

lOi 

115 

621 

9, .561 

9,933 

.Ian.  12. . . 

4,149 

11 

103 

468 

10,473 

6,868 

Jan.  19. . . 

4,845 

101 

150 

40 

15,394 

6, 1 50 

Jan.  *26.. . 

5,3' 3 

10} 

144 

329 

7  7>1 

6,64n 

Feb.  4... 

5,200 

10 

163 

369 

14,979 

1.5,796 

Feb.  9.... 

4,35? 

10} 

143 

49() 

11  13i 

5,o77 

Feb.  16... 

4.679 

1.56 

867 

12,23 1 

6,297 

Keb.  23  .. 

4,845 

m 

140 

3S9 

12,S*>2 

7,6:3 

Mar.  1.  . 

3,291 

13 

212 

499 

11,777 

8,544 

Mar.  8... 

4,5'3 

Ik} 

213 

510 

9,015 

7,226 

Mar.  15. . . 

5.^27 

12} 

264 

598 

14.672 

9,060 

Mar.  22... 

3,  .->59 

13 

237 

508 

.5,511 

6,776 

Mar.  29. . . 

5,0.53 

18} 

179 

884 

12  43  ' 

8,361 

April  5  .. 

3,457 

14 

180 

832 

8,673 

6,862 

April  12. .. 

4,244 

15 

163 

1,872 

9  676 

11,879 

April  19... 

4, .596 

15 

203 

1,732 

7,825 

1 1 ,232 

April  26... 

4,108 

14} 

124 

1,379 

ln.180 

8,814 

May  8... 

3,900 

14 

134 

1,206 

1091T 

13,832 

May  10. . . 

3,917 

15} 

196 

1,270 

7  4<i5 

13,598 

.May  17... 

4,969 

16 

129 

1,‘203 

5.6S7 

12,877 

May  24. , . 

3,314 

16i 

173 

1,000 

5  162 

11,113 

May  31.. . 

8,579 

18 

216 

1,397 

8  043 

ll>,C!4 

June  7... 

4,629 

17} 

ISS 

1,.52I 

8.613 

14,221 

June  14.. . 

4,447 

16} 

229 

1,404 

13,326 

13,512 

June  21 . .. 

4,169 

16 

203 

1,324 

11,9.52 

10,136 

June  28. .. 

4,713 

14} 

143 

1,511 

13,372 

11,364 

July  5.. 

3,51  4 

16 

HO 

1  555 

14.’22H 

14,287 

July  12... 

4,97S 

15} 

163 

2,:  119 

11,134 

18,376 

■July  19. . 

3,765 

16 

162 

2,705 

14,147 

13,360 

July  26  .. 

5,202 

16 

144 

2,312 

19,72.1 

8,894 

Aug.  2... 

5,561 

14} 

158 

2,888 

15,047 

5,550 

Aug.  9... 

4,466 

14} 

184 

2,704 

16,869 

3,920 

Aug.  1&. . . 

5,290 

15 

137 

2,S3G 

15,440 

6,577 

Aug.  28. . 

5,273 

15} 

89 

2,099 

10,640 

6,143 

Aug.  30. . . 

5,714 

15* 

180 

2,948 

21,279 

9,838 

Sept.  6.  . 

5,866 

15 1 

122 

2,018 

16,996 

6,'2S1 

Sept.  13. .. 

7,  "32 

14} 

140 

2,370 

21,118 

8,1  36 

Sept,  20  .. 

5Mt 

15 

149 

2,799 

27,0.51 

11,105 

Sept.  27. .. 

6,395 

14 

127 

2,133 

20,603 

14,240 

Oc%  4... 

6,260 

13) 

101 

2,192 

22,614 

14,585 

Oct,  11... 

6,437 

14} 

lOS 

2,078 

22,247 

14,140 

Oct.  18. ... 

7,6SS 

14 

140 

1,503 

24,707 

11,783 

Oct.  25.... 

6,511 

13 

113 

1,953 

23,840 

19,704 

Nov.  1... 

5,115 

14 

94 

l,n58 

17,062 

23,6.59 

Nov.  8 . . . 

7,134 

13 

97 

1,836 

28,271 

32,335 

Nov.  15. . . 

6,476 

13} 

117 

2,029 

19,482 

28,725 

Nov.  22. . . 

7,413. 

14 

102 

1,965 

25.512 

‘24,973 

Nov.  29.. . 

6,597 

!«} 

98 

1,814 

21,351 

22  479 

Dec.  6... 

5,777 

13} 

93 

1,275 

19,274 

26.436 

Dec.  13,. .. 

6,245 

14} 

80 

1,893 

18,165 

24.267 

Dec.  20 . 

7,02'i 

15 

79 

1,025 

22,637 

15,884 

Dec.  27.... 

4,787 

15} 

73 

844 

16.4S6 

16,4'J6 

Totals . . 

267,068 

7,576 

76,361 

777.990 

657,092 

Weekly  av 

51.36 

14K 

146 

1,469 

14,961 

12,636 

The  second  column  gives  the  average  net  price  of  all 
the  beef  cattle  sold  each  week,  tlie  prices  for  the  dif¬ 
ferent  grades,  running  2  to  5  cents  per  pound  above  and 
below  this  average,  according  to  quality.  The  prices 
here  are  always  based  upon  the  estimated  net  or  dressed 
weight  of  the  four  quarters,  or  the  cost  of  the  dressed 
carcass  to  the  butcher.  The  skin,  head,  feet,  loose  tal¬ 
low,  etc.,  called  the  “  fifth  quarter,”  in  the  market, 
are  reckoned  against  the  expense  of  killing,  dressing,  etc. 


1864  ... 
1863  ... 
1862  ... 
1861  ... 
1860  ... 

Total 

Beeves 

Milch 

Cows 

Veal 

Calves 

Sheep  <& 
Lambs 

Live 

Hogs 

All 

Kinds. 

267.068 

263,229 

23.5,660 

226.1  2.3 
2'26,74-r 

7,576 

6,715 

5,2.53 

5,816 

7,154 

76,351 
36.2 '8 

3  ’.253 
33,333 

4  M  62 

777,990 
522,311 
17.5,722 
.527,35  • 
.514.1'0l 

657,092 
1,006,773 
1,  98,712 
59 1,509 
319,623 

1,786,087 

1,924,598 

1,845,605 

1,.3S7,327 

1,107,832 

Comparative  Receipts. — The  above  table  shows 
the  annual  total  receipts  of  each  kind  of  animals  for 


five  years  past,  and  the  tolal  of  all  kinds  of  animals 
Beef  Cattle  have  increaseii  in  numbers  each  year.— 
Mitch  Cows  decreased  in  supply  after  the  war  upon  llie 
swill-milk  establishments  in  1800-1,  but  during  llie  past 
year  the  receipts  have  exceeded  even  tliose  of  1860.— 
Veal  Calves  were  crowded  in  very  freely  last  summer, 
owing  to  the  high  price  of  beef,  the  short  pasturage,  and 
the  advance  in  dairy  products,  which  led  farmers  to  save 
all  the  milk  possible.  The  receipts  exceeded  those  oi 
1863,  by  over  40,000  head.  This  will  tell  materially  upon 
the  future  supply  of  full-grown  stock,  especially  in  1867-8 
when  these  calves,  if  raised,  would  appear  as  beef  cat¬ 
tle,  working  oxen,  and  milch  cows — 40,000  being  nearly 
one-sixth  of  the  total  number  of  beef  cattle  received  dur¬ 
ing  a  whole  year. — Sheep  and  Jjambs  have  also  been  sent 
to  market  more  largely  than  in  previous  years,  but  Hie 
increase  is  about  in  tlie  ratio  of  the  increased  prodiicl  ot 
sheep  throughout  the  country. — Live  Hogs. —  The  re- 
caipts  for  1864  fell  off  to  less  than  two-thirds  those  of 
each  of  the  two  preceding  years— due  partly  to  the  lack 
of  corn  to  fatten  them,  and  partly  to  the  resumption  of 
pork-packing  in  Western  cities,  especially  along  Die 
Ohio  river  where  the  incursions  of  the  enemy  in 
1861-2-3,  materially  diminished  tills  branch  of  business. 


Beeves 

Cows 

Veals 

Sheep 

Snmie 

All  Kinds 

1864  . 

5,136 

146 

1,469 

14,961 

12,636 

34.348 

1863  . 

5,062 

129 

698 

10.044 

21,092 

37,"17 

1862  . 

4,532 

101 

5' 2 

9,149 

21,120 

35,492 

1861  . 

4,265 

110 

630 

9,9.50 

11,292 

26,176 

1860  . 

4,860 

133 

772 

9,883 

6,147 

21,305 

Average  Weekly  Receipts.— Tills  table  gives  the 
average  weekly  receipts  for  the  whole  of  5  years.  Tlie 
first  table,  above,  shows  tlie  receipis  at  tlie  different  sea¬ 
sons.  It  will  be  seen  that  llie  supply  of  beef  runs  prettj- 
uniform  for  this  standard  meat,  seldom  sinking  below 
4,000,  and  a  few  times  running  up  to  7,000,  but  usually 
running  only  a  liltle  above  or  below  tlic  average  of  aboul 
5,000  liead,  as  given  in  this  table.— Veal  calves  of  cour.se 
came  in  most  freely  when  tliey  had  a  few  weeks’  growth, 
and  especially  when  tlie  dry  pasture  season  arrived.  The 
receipts  of  Sheep  began  to  be  large  soon  after  the  June 
sliearing.  Hogs  were  sent  forward  in  unusual  numbers 
in  May,  June,  and  July,  when  farmers  began  to  fear  the 
failure  of  the  corn  crop — the  largest  receipts  being  of 
course  after  the  cooler  packing  season  opened  in  autumn. 

Prices  of  Beef  Cattle. — Tlie  following  figures  show 
the  average  wholesale  price  of  all  the  Beef  Cattle  sola 
during  eacli  of  the  past  five  years,  the  figures  being  the 
cents  per  pound  for  the  estimated  dressed  weight.  K 

1864.  1863.  1862.  ISGl.  1860> 

14ic,  O^c.  7|c.  7|c.  8ic, 

will  be  noticed  that  during  the  past  year  Hie  price  wat 
fully  50  per  cent  above  the  preceding  year,  and  very  near 
ly  double  that  of  1862.  Ollier  meats  have  advanced  in 
about  Hie  same  proportion,  excepting  swine,  of  which, 
in  1864,  the  average  price  nearly  doubled  that  of  1863. 

Total  Supply  op  Beef.— Estimating  the  cattle  to 
dress  an  average  of  only  700  lbs..  Hie  267,068  head  yield¬ 
ed  over  One  Hundred  and  Eighty-six  million  pounds  of 
beef  (186,047.600  lbs).  This  at  the  average 
wholesale  price  of  1424c.  is  nearly  Twenty  seven  Million 
Dollars  (S26,70S,823) — a  nice  sum  to  go  to  Hie  coun¬ 
try  from  this  city  for  beef  alone — lo  say  noHiing  of  mut¬ 
ton,  veal,  and  pork. 

Where  the  Beep  Comes  From. — Of  the  267,068 
Beef  Cattle  recorded,  185, ,550  were  yarded  at  44Hi-stieet, 
and  of  these  we  have  records  showing  the  States  to 
which  they  were  credited,  thus  : 


From 

So.  of  Cattle 

From  So.  of  Cattle 

Illinois, . 

. 93,210 

Michigan, . 

...  1,280 

New-York,. . 

. 37,774 

Pennsylvania, . 

Ohio, . 

. ....24,215 

Connecticut, . 

New-Jersey, . 

..  858 

Indiana,.... 

. 6,979 

Massachusetts, . 

. . .  292 

Missouri, . . . . 

. 3,351 

Kansas, . 

. . .  149 

Iowa, . 

.  8,232 

Wisconsin, . 

. . ,  126 

Canada,. . . . 

.  8,016 

New  Hampshire,.... 

...  11 

Here  we  have  93,210  set  down  as  coming  from  the  sin¬ 
gle  State  of  Illinois.  Some  of  these  were  doubtless  from 
Wisconsin  and  Iowa,  but  many  more  of  those  credited 
to  New-York,  Ohio,  Indiana,  and  Michigan,  came  orig¬ 
inally  from  Illinois,  and  were  pastured  for  a  season  in  the 
former  States.  Illinois  is  a  great  Slate  in  more  respects 
than  one.  If  any  doubt,  let  them  ride  over  her  magnifi¬ 
cent  lines  of  railway,  running  North  and  South,  East  and 
West,  indeed  in  all  directions,  and  they  -will  see  where 
the  cattle  grow,  and  wliere  Hie  corn  is  raised  to  fatten 
them  with.  Our  citizens  who  learn  where  the  beef  comes 
from,  and  our  Western  farmers  w  ho  see  w  here  it  goes  to 
and  the  money  that  it  returns,  will  know  how  to  appre 
date  the  great  lines  of  railroads  stretching  from  this 
city  away  to  the  Mississippi,  and  beyond,  and  to  be  thank¬ 
ful  to  those  who  have  invested  their  funds,  and  ofle» 
sunk  tliem  in  building  up  tliese  great  public  enterpriSM. 


36 


[February, 


AMERICAN  AG-RICri,TURIS^. 


Cantaining  a  great  varietij  of  Hems,  incittding  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  toe  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form^  for  want  of  space  elsewhere, 

A,  “  WiscoMsiii  Sorg-liMSBi  C«aiv«Hi- 

is  to  be  lield  in  Madison,  Feb.  7,  at  10  A.  M. 

MicSiIgaii  Agriciiltiiral  College. — 
The  announcement  of  this  Coliege  is  given  in  our  ad¬ 
vertising  colums.  This  is  the  oldest  institution  of  lire 
kind  in  tlie  country,  has  an  excellent  corps  of  professors, 
and  ample  means  of  instruction.  To  Western  stu¬ 
dents  it  offers  opportunities  for  acquiring  a  scientific 
and  practical  education,  which  they  should  not  allow  to 
pass  unheeded.  As  compensated  manual  labor  is  a  fea- 
tnre  in  this  college,  a  student  is  able  to  complete  his 
course  with  comparatively  little  expense. 

Ag-ricultiiral  Colleges. — “  Sophomore,” 
i.oiii.<^ville,  Ky.,  asks  how  thesediffer  from  other  colleges 
and  what  are  the  principal  studies  taught  in  them.  The 
course  of  instruction  in  Agricultural  colleges  is  arranged 
wiili  special  reference  to  the  wants  of  the  farming  popu¬ 
lation,  and  will  be  more  or  less  extensive,  according  to 
the  views  prevailing  in  the  community  where  the  college 
is  situated.  Chemistry,  animal  and  vegetable  physiology, 
and  such  other  sciences  as  have  a  relation  to  agriculture, 
are  thoroughly  taught,  while  the  languages  and  the  purely 
literary  studies  receive  less  attention  or  are  altogether 
omitted.  The  only  Agricultural  colleges  yet  in  operation 
as  far  as  we  know,  are  that  of  Pennsylvania,  advertised 
in  the  January  Agriculturist,  and  that  of  Micliigau.  ail- 
vertisedin  the  present  paper.  There  is  also  one  in  Mary¬ 
land,  but.  judging  from  its  catalogue,  its  course  does  not 
esseiiliiiily  differ  from  that  of  other  colleges. 

WS*aft  Constitutes  a  Ciood  Coiaapost 
Besides  Stable  MaMtirc  ?— H.  M.  C.,  Middlesex 
Co.,  Conn.  A  compost  is  a  manure  from  a  mixture  with 
the  excrements  of  other  ingredients  than  the  Htler  bedding 
of  animals.  If  thedung  and  urine  of  animals  is  the  basis 
of  a  compost,  it  will, of  necessity  almost,  be  mixed  with 
the  litter  and  the  waste  of  the  fodder,  etc.  To  this  may 
be  added  three  or  four  times  as  much  dry  swamp  muck 
or  peat  broken  down  quite  fine,  parings  of  roadside  turf 
or  headlands,  or  any  other  vegetable  substances,  as  saw¬ 
dust,  chip  dirt,  etc.  A  smaller  quantity  of  good  soil  does 
very  well,  and  even  sand  is  often  employed  as  an  ab¬ 
sorbent  of  liquid  mannre,  and  as  an  ingredient  of  the 
compost.  Bones  pounded  pretty  fine,  gypsum  (plaster), 
leached  ashes,  leather  scraps,  bone  or  horn  turnings, 
woolen  waste,  hen  manure,  house  slops,  chamber  lye, 
brine,  etc.,  are  all  valuable  additions,  and  make  the 
thorough  working  over  of  the  heap,  and  a  corresponding 
increase  of  more  inert  substances  desirable.  Lime  or  un¬ 
bleached  ashes  are  not  suitable  to  mix  witli  animal  ma¬ 
nures.  but  maybe  previously  mixed  with  the  muck  to  lie 
awhile  before  adding  it  to  the  manure  compost,  etc. 

Editorial  t^iiarrels  —  True 
tlon. — The  long  time  readers  of  the  Agriculturist  will 
bear  witness  that  we  very  seldom  have  any  disputes  with 
our  contemporaries.  We  confess  to  an  ambition,  in  com¬ 
mon  with  otliers,  to  have  our  journal  occupy  the  highest 
rank,  but  we  scorn  to  seek  to  stand  uppermost,  by  pulling 
otliers  down  iieZoio  our  own  standard.  That  is  a  low  am¬ 
bition  which  leads  one  to  carp  at  and  pick  flaws  in  his 
neighbors,  in  order  to  show  off  by  contrast  his  ovr-n  su¬ 
perior  merits.  If  any  one  sees  the  slightest  leaning  in 
tliat  direction  in  this  journal,  he  will  do  us  a  great  favor 
by  pointing  it  out.  The  true  way  to  pre-eminence  is 
through  superior  energy,  enterpri.se,  and  intrinsic  merit. . 
We  repeat  then,  that  we  will  not,  and  can  not  stoop  to 
fault  finding,  to  prying  into  the  concerns  of  our  contem¬ 
poraries,  and  as  a  rule,  only  refer  to  them  and  their  do¬ 
ings  when  some  error  of  statement  or  opinion  is  likely 
to  lead  the  public  astray. 

Stop  That  Falsehood, — We  notice  that  a 
few  jealous  journals,  in  tlie  spirit  referred  to  above,  have 
industriously  circulated  a  falsehood  in  regard  to  tins 
paper,  which  we  have  so  far  passed  by  as  unworthy  of 
notice  ;  but  as  it  is  kept  up,  and  concerns  the  integrity  of 
the  Publisher,  we  notice  it  briefly  now.  It  is  asserted 
that  “  last  winter,  wtien  the  price  of  paper  rose,  this  jour¬ 
nal  was  reduced  to  ‘  half  size.’  ” — Another  .says  “  greatly 
reduced;”  tliat  the  "half  sheet  was  advertised  at  full 
rates  and,  increasing  in  the  boldness  of  the  statement, 
It  is  next  asserted  that  “tlie  half” — “the  reduced”  sheet 
—is  offered  at  an  advanced  price.  -The  truth  is,  no  re¬ 
duction  was  made  “last  winter,”  nor  unlil  Seplem- 
tser,  and  then  but  a  slight  one,  in  three  numbers,  and  it 


was  tlien  stated  that  the  advertising  space  would  be  less¬ 
ened,  and  extra  efforts  be  made  to  condense  the  matter, 
so  as  to  give  about  the  usual  amount  of  information.  So 
little  was  the  contraction,  that  only  two  readers  com¬ 
plained  of  it,  and  one  of  these  said  he  did  not  notice  it 
until  informed  of  it  through  one  of  our  jealous  contempo- 
ries.  The  whole  reduction  of  size  during  the  entire  year 
amounted  to  just  three  fourths  of  one  number.  Second  : 
Wlien  tile  small  advance  in  price  was  made,  it  was  dis¬ 
tinctly  stated  that  it  was  done  in  order  “to  be  able  to 
maintain  the  full  size  of  Ihe  paper,  and  keep  up  its  pro¬ 
gressive  cliaracter,”  and  tliis  size  w  as  restored  before  the 
advanced  price  took  effect,  and  before  any  of  our  jealous 
friends  uttered  their  shirs — or  to  be  plain,  their  falselioods. 
Until  September,  and  since  November,  the  paper  has  been 
as  large  as  it  ever  was.  We  have  no  idea  of  making  it 
smaller,  and  tliiiik  it  is  improving  in  intrinsic  value  willi 
each  number.  We  have  no  hopes  that  the  vilifiers  will 
retract  their  false  statements,  but  we  sliall  not  quarrel 
witli  tliem,  nor.  if  they  behave  civilly,  point  out  tlieir  nu¬ 
merous  deficiencies,  the  kind  of  advertisements  they  ad¬ 
mit,  to  meet  expenses,  etc.  One  of  them  would  better  let 
others  alone,  and  attend  to  liis  own  business,  so  as  not  to 
stop  liis  paper  again  wlien  the  subscription  money  is  ail 
in  for  a  year  aliead,  and  also  settle  up  his  unpatented 
patent  operations,  so  as  to  die  in  peace. — If  our  readers 
are  satisfied,  it  is  enough  for  us.  If  they  are  not,  they 
will  of  course  go  wliere  tliey  are  better  treated,  and  they 
ought  to.  We  shall  not  complain,  and  scold  our  contem¬ 
poraries  for  being  superior,  but  rather  praise  them  for  it. 
Fortunately  for  us,  our  readers  seem  to  be  more  than 
satisfied,  wliicli  tliey  manifest  by  bringing  along  many 
others — for  which  we  tliank  tliem. 


Aslies  on  Fotsatoes.— Hard  wood  ashes 
are  one  of  llte  most  valuable  kinds  of  manure,  especially 
adapted  to  potatoes,  which  nowadays  are  so  sensitive 
to  decaying  manures.  Chester  Belding,  of  Orange  Co., 
N.  Y..  writes  tliat  he  applied  “unleached  ashes  to  the 
potato  liills  after  first  and  second  hoeings,  at  the  rate  al¬ 
together  of  about  15  barrels  per  acre.  Two  rows  through 
tlie  cenler  whicli  were  not  ashed,  yielded  at  tlie  rate  of 
I97j^' bushels  per  acre,  while  the  otliers  produced  at  the 
rate  of  280  busliels  per  acre.  There  was  no  perceptible 
difference  between  rows  ashed  once  and  those  ashed 
twice.  Wil!  ashes  continue  to  be  beneficial  if  applied  ? 
and  liow  many  years  will  one  application  i'e  heneficia!  ? 

A  dressing  of  ashes  will  show  its  good  effects  several 
years  on  grass,  grain,  etc.,  and  marked  good  effects  will 
be  noticed  from  liberal  applications  each  year  on  the 
same  land— but  tins  is  usually  not  an  economical  practice. 

Fsirisi  Inuplemcsits  C/Iteaper  Mow 
Tiian  Tliree  Years  Ago. — The  manufacturers 
of  the  Buckeye  Mower  liave  prepared  a  table  showing 
tliat  their  $175  machine  costs  the  farmer  less  now  titan 
in  1861 ,  wlien  a  similar  mower  was  sold  for  $100.  Taking 
from  tlie  November  Agriculturist  of  1861  and  1864,  Ike 
New  York  prices  of  farm  produce,  they  reckon  tliat  it 
required  to  Iniy  the  mower  in 

lbs.  Hai/.  ineat.  Corn.  Butter.  Cheesg.  Wool. 
1861  ($100). 14.300  77  bush.  ].5‘>  busli.  63,5  fts.  1667  lbs.  223 lbs. 
1804  ($175)  .11,000  69  bush.  93  bush.  MO  lbs.  800  lbs.  175  Bs. 

Similar  figures  a|iply  to  other  produce  and  other  im¬ 
plements.  as  well  as  to  relative  prices  in  oilier  places. — 
They  apply  still  more  forcibly  to  our  own  subscription 
rates.  Wliile  improvements  have  been  made,  and  print¬ 
ing  paper  costs  nearly  three  times  as  much,  the  rates  are 
raised  but  one  quarter  to  clubs,  and  one  half  to  single 
subscribers,  owing  mainly  to  increased  circulation. 
Tims  a  .single  subscription,  cost  (at  N.  Y.  prices)  in 
Hay.  Wheat.  Corn.  Butter.  Cheese,  Wool. 
1861  ($1.00).  .143  »3.  25  quarts  ISquarts  6fts.  16fts.  25!f  lbs. 
1864  ($1.50)..  94 tbs.  18  quarts  25quarts  Slbs.  70)3.  IK  Bs. 

■Blarley  on  Eig'Iaf,  <S'rav«Ily  Soil. — 
“  Subscriber.”  Barley  delights  in  a  gravelly  loam,  not 
very  liglit,  however.  Sow  as  early  as  the  soli  can  be 
worked,  on  ground  manured  last  year  for  some  hoed 
crop,  or  on  a  sod  turned  under  last  fall.  Tlie  crop  will 
not  bear  iieating  manure,  but  on  land  in  poor  heart,  such 
application.s  as  seaweed  or  muck  compost,  marl,  leached 
ashes,  gypsum,  or  lime,  are  useful.  Barley  is  liable  to 
smut  and  rust,  but  less  so  than  most  varieties  of  wheat. 

Apples  Sor  Ilojys. — Daniel  Emerson,  of 
Summit  Co.,  Ohio,  writes  to  the  American  Agriculturist: 
“  In  my  youth,  my  grandfather,  one  autumn  weighed  four 
shoats  and  put  tliem  up  to  fat.  I  gathered  sweet  apples 
and  fed  to  them.  At  killing  time  tlie  hogs  were  again 
weighed  and  were  found  to  have  gained  two  pounds  per 
day  each.  They  were  fatted  only  on  apples,  and  the 
pork  was  very  nine,  sweet,  and  .siifficientlv  firm.  This 
year  I  kept  my  pigs  penned,  and  during  tlie  summer  daily 
gave  them  weed.s  from  the  garden.  From  the  first  of 
August  for  two  months  tliey  liad  notliing  but  sweet  and 
grafted  sour  apples,  and  since  then,  apples  and  corn. 


The  largest  came  to  the  knife  before  the  fir.st  of  Deccm 
ber,  very  fat,  and  made  ino.st  beautiful  and  sweet  pork. 
A  farmer  in  a  neighboring  town  pronounces  an  acre  of 
even  indifferent  orcliard  to  be  equal  in  value  for  hogs  to 
an  acre  of  the  best  corn,  year  by  year.”  Why  not  plant 
sweet  apple  orchards  for  hogs  and  for  cows  also  ? 

ISOS'®  Foisomed  l»y  Salt.— “U.,”  West¬ 
chester  Co.,  N  Y.,  says  many  hogs  have  been  lost  in 
that  County,  through  having  too  much  salt  fed  to  tliem 
ignorantly,  and  asks  a  cure.  Old  brine  is  very  poison¬ 
ous  to  swine.  Salt  can  hardly  be  called  poisonous  un¬ 
less  it  is  taken  in  large  quantities.  In  eitlier  ca.?e,  we 
would  give  the  hog  a  warm  bath,  clean  nest,  and  a  diet  of 
raw  roots,  especially  potatoes,  mashed  to  a  pomace.  If 
any  of  our  readers  have  been  successful  with  any  par¬ 
ticular  treatment,  they  ■will  favor  the  inquirer  and  otliers 
by  communicating  it  to  the  American  Agriculturist. 

Wintering' Hogs  om  “  D. 

D.,”  Lake  Co.,  Ind.,  proposes  wintering  his  iiogs  on  tur¬ 
nips,  and  asks  “  Will  it  do  ?”  We  think  so.  Why  not  ? 

4®  Acre  Clay  Farsn — Ayrslaire  Ksill, 
etc.— C.  A.  Bruce,  Fulton  Co.,  III.,  ■wlio  lias  siicli  a  farm, 
naturally  good  for  fruit  and  wheat  land.asks  :  “Will  it  p-ay 
to  haul  ashes  wliicli  have  been  exposed  to  the  action  of  Ihe 
atmospliere  for  two  or  three  years,  a  mile  and  a  half,  for 
the  purpose  of  enriching  or  iooseiiing  the  land?” — Yes 
“Will  subsoiling  without  uniterdraining  be  of  any  per¬ 
manent  value  ?” — Doubtful — certainly  not  if  tlie  land  is 
%vet....“Can  you  inform  me  at  ■What  price  I  would  be 
likely  to  obtain  a  good  Alderney  or  .4yrsliire  bull  calf, 
or  a  yearling,  next  spring  $25  to  $75,  according  to 
quality I  have  an  interval  of  2  years  in  my  file  of 
tlie  AgTiC'uKurtsr,  at  what  price  can  I  obtain  the  vol¬ 
umes  for  1858  and  KSfl?”  Sent  by  mail,  bound  for  $2.44 
eacli,  unbound,  $1.74  each.  He  adds  :  “  The  December 
and  January  Nos.  of  tlie  Agriculturist  are  splendid,  and 
I  wish  I  could  send  you  a  hundred  subscribers.” 

A  ClaicIceH  IIoMse  for  tlae  Prsairies. 
Mrs.  R.  J.  Trine,  writes  to  the  American  Agriculturist : 
“  A  very  good,  but  cheap  chicken  house  can  be  made 
thus  :  Build  a  rail  pen,  leaving  an  opening  at  one  cor¬ 
ner  for  access  ;  and  cover,  and  stop  the  cracks  with  prai¬ 
rie  hay  or  straw.  With  such  a  hennery,  and  witli  plenty 
of  frest  meat,  vegetables,  grain,  fresh  water,  gravel,  etc.. 
hens  can  be  induced  to  lay  all  througli  the  winter.” 

Mow  to  Break  Steers.— In  ansxver  to 
J.  W.  Brown,  of  Cecil  Co.,  Md.,  and  others;  Steers 
have  by  no  means  so  nervous  a  nature  as  horses.  They 
will  sooner  yield  to  force,  and  accommodate  tliemselves 
to  what  appears  to  them  unavoidable  necessity.  So  they 
do  not  need  so  much  careful  reasoning  with,  so  to  speak 
It  is  best  to  begin  with  them  as  calves,  and  let  the  boys 
play  with  them,  and  drive  tliem  tied  or  yoked  togethei 
taking  oare  that  they  are  not  abused.  When  a  pair  o< 
old  steers  are  to  be  put  togetlier  and  broken  to  the  yoke, 
or  a  pair  of  Bulls,  as  not  unfrequenlly  happens,  it  is  usu¬ 
ally  best  to  yoke  them,  and  tie  their  tails  together,  in  an 
extempore  stall,  in  a  well  fenced  yard,  and  then  turn 
them  .oose  in  the  yard,  which  should  not  be  large  enough 
for  them  to  run  in  -and  get  under  much  headway.  If 
the  tails  are  not  tied  tocellier,  they  will  frequently  turn 
the  yoke,  which  is  a  very  bad  habit.  After  half  a  day’s 
association,  the  lesson  of  “ye  up!”  and  “ -whoha,” 
may  be  inculcated — and  when  well  learned — probably  tlie 
next  day.“  liaw  ”  and  “  gee.”  The  daily  lesson  should  be 
given  after  they  have  stood  yoked  awliile.  They  should 
not  be  taken  from  the  yard  unlil  they  have  become  used 
to  the  yoke,  and  are  no  longer  wild  and  scarey.  ns  they 
are  apt  to  be  at  first.  Each  day  all  previous  lessons 
should  be  repeated.  Put  them  before  an  ox  sled  or  a 
pair  of  cart  wheels  at  first,  rather  than  to  a  stone  boat, 
as  they  are  apt  to  step  on  the  cliain,  and  that  friglitens 
them.  All  treatment  should  be  firm  but  mild,  and  no 
superfluous  words  should  be  employed. 

€|iiiisccs  in  Clay  Soil,  —  C.  Holland, 
Peoria  Co,,  Ill.  A  rich,  deep  loam  is  to  be  preferred,  but 
the  trees  will  doubtless  do  well  on  the  clay,  if  it  is  ameli¬ 
orated  by  draining,  deep  working,  and  by  the  use  of 
coarse  manure.  The  addition  of  salt  would  be  of  doubt- 
fill  utility.  E.xperiment  with  it  in  moderate  quantities. 

Sitra'wlierry  Flants  for  Sii1>scri1>> 
ers— Uxplaoatlon.  — To  the  numerous  inquiries 
from  new  subscribers,  we  answer  generally;  Tlie  “  Agri¬ 
culturist  Strawberry”  was  offered  free,  and  sent  to  all 
subscribers  for  1864,  who  applied  for  it  according  to  the 
rules.  Tliis  done,  the  new  growth  of  autumn  was  sold 
to  Rev.  J.  Knox,  of  Pittsburg,  Pa.,  who.  being  liy  com 
mon  consent  the  “Strawberry  King”  of  the  country, 
was  anxious  to  secure  this  Queen  of  the  straw  berries,  and 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


37 


nave  the  plants  for  s.ale.  All  orders  sent  to  us  are  turned 
over  to  him.  The  plants  remain  in  our  grounds,  whence 
they  will  be  taken  in  spring,  as  called  for  by  customers. 
He  will,  doubtless,  meet  with  ready  sale  for  all  the  plants 
he  will  have,  as,  by  universal  consent,  this  is  the  most 
remarkable  variety  of  this  fruit  that  has  yet  been  pro¬ 
duced.  In  the  sale,  we  reserved  a  limited  number  for 
distribution  among  our  readers  the  coming  spring,  a  large 
portion  of  which  have  already  been  called  for  by  new 
subscribers  and  others.  When  an  application  comes 
along  w’ith  a  subscription  letter,  so  as  to  beenteied  down 
with  it,  and  accompanied  with  five  cents  lor  postage  and 
packing,  the  name  is  recorded.  The  plants  will  be  sent 
in  order  of  application,  as  soon  as  spring  weather  admits, 
until  the  reserved  supply  is  entirely  exhausted.  Rev.  J. 
Knox,  box  155,  Pittsburg,  Pa.,  will  respond  by  circular, 
or  otherwise,  to  all  inquiries  in  regard  to  purchasing 
plants. 

Sprimg  ISiidding'  tlie  Pcacli.— J.  B. 

Richardson,  Ill.,  asks  if  burls  can  be  cut  in  winter  and 
successfully  preserved  and  inserted  in  spring.  Spring 
budding  is  sometimes  practised,  but  we  never  knew  it  to 
be  done  with  the  peach.  The  buds  are  apt  to  remain  un¬ 
til  late  before  they  start,  and  the  wood  does  not  become 
sufficiently  ripened  to  endure  the  following  winter.  If 
any  have  experience,  we  shall  be  glad  to  hear  of  it. 

ISlack  ^’aples  Ciwramt.  —  J.  Grable, 
Buchanan  Co.,  Mo.,  wishes  to  know  if  this  vtiriety  is 
worth  cultivation.  It  depends  upon  whether  one  likes 
black  currants.  While  some  consider  them  a  valuable 
fruit,  others  (including  the  writer),  regard  them  as  dis¬ 
agreeable  and  worthless.  Naples  is  the  best  of  the  black. 

Crop  for  a  Pestcli  ©rcharcl.  —  N.  A. 

Halbert,  Erie  Co.,  N.  Y.  Cultivators  differ  as  to  the 
propriety  of  taking  any  crop  from  the  land  except  peaches. 
In  New  Jersey  it  is  the  general  custom  to  grow  buck  w  heat 
in  the  peach  orchard,  to  keep  down  weeds.  Plowing  It 
in  before  it  matures  would  increase  the  fertility  of  the  soil. 

East-wood  on  the  Cranberry.— This 
is  probably  the  most  complete  work  on  the  subject,  and 
the  Department  of  Agriculture  seem  to  think  so,  as  two 
of  the  engravings  are  taken  from  the  work  to  illustrate 
its  report  for  1863.  This,  considering  that  the  work  is 
copyrighted,  is  rather  cool.  There  is  a  new- edition  now 
in  press,  and  it  will  be  ready  in  a  few  days.  Piico, 75  cts. 

Wlaggots  in.  ISeams.— J.  S.  Brower,  Mon¬ 
mouth  Co.,  N.  J..  It  is  difficult  to  say  why  these  insects 
should  suddenly  appear.  It  is  not  probable  that  anything 
used  upon  the  soil  has  anything  to  do  with  it.  We  know 
of  no  remedy,  except  to  destroy  all  infested  seed  before 
the  grubs  turn  into  beetles,  and  procure  seed  from 
localities  where  the  insect  is  not  known. 

ISbiiharh. — S.  H.  Mitchell,  Perth  Co.,  C.  W., 
asks  what  kind  of  Rhubarb  to  cultivate  for  medicinal 
purposes.  We  doubt  if  it  is  worth  while  to  cultivate  any 
sort  for  its  root.  In  England,  a  cut-leaved  species 
(Rheum  palmatum),  is  grown,  but  it  gives  a  very  indiffer¬ 
ent  product,  and  one  wliich  has  but  little  value,  except 
to  use  in  adulterating  the  powder  of  Asiatic  Rhubarb. 

$^bade  Trees. — It  is  a  great  mistake  to 
choose  large  trees  from  the  forest.  Take,  instead,  small 
trees,  and  those  from  open  fields.  By  careful  treatment, 
they  will  soon  overtop  the  tall  spindling  trees  from  tlie 
woods,  and  will  be  handsomer  and  better  specimens.  It 
would  be  better  still,  for  them  to  have  a  year  or  two  of 
nursery  culture  before  being  set  in  their  final  position. 

Hon.  Marshall  I*.  Wilder. — All  who 

are  interested  in  horticulture  will  be  glad  to  know  that 
this  distinguished  pomologist  still  retains  his  interest  in 
rural  affairs.  In  renewing  his  subscription  to  the  Agri- 
tulturist,  he  says ;  “  My  health  is  slowly,  but  my  physician 
says  surely,  improving.  I  hope  that  it  may  prove  so,  and 
that  my  mission  is  not  yet  ended.” 

Xritoma  E-varia. — This  is  a  very  pretty 
plant,  and  the  Prarie  Fiirmer,  of  January  Tth,  has  a  very 
pretty  picture  of  it,  but  it  would  have  been  pretty  in  the 
Farmer  to  have  said  that  it  was  taken  from  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  of  iiovember  last.  Mr.  Farmer,  it  is’nt  pretty  for 
you  to  gobble  up  our  original  pictures,  and  never  say 
thank  you. 

Eocality  Ibr  CiSrape  Culture. — A  sub¬ 
scriber,  in  Buffalo,  sends  us  a  detailed  description  of  a 
certain  locality,  and  then  asks  us  if  grapes  grown  there 
will  yield  a  juice  which  will  make  wine  wilbout  the  ad¬ 
dition  of  sugar.  It  is  impossible  for  any  one  to  ans-wer 
this,  and  many  othei  similar  questions,  in  any  other  than 


the  most  general  terms.  The  Delaware  and  the  Catnwba, 
where  they  will  ripen,  will  make  wine  without  sugar. 
The  Concord  varies  in  value  as  a  wine  grape,  the  sugar 
seeming  to  increase  the  further  West  it  is  grown. 

Hedges!  in  We-tv  Jersey. — W.  T.,  Mon¬ 
mouth  Co.  We  think  Ihiitthe  Honey  Locust  will  do  best 
in  your  locality.  The  Osage  Orange  would  be  hardy, 
but  it  is  almost  impossible  to  get  either  seed  or  plants. 

Ne-tv  Tegetalfles. — From  inquiries  among 
seedsmen,  there  seems  to  be  an  unusually  small  number 
of  new  varieties  of  vegetables  to  be  brought  out  the 
coming  spring.  Of  course  there  is  the  usiial  assortment 
of  new  Peas— ihose  we  have  in  numbers  every  year — but 
the  only  novelties  we  have  noticed,  thus  far,  are  Ever¬ 
green  Pole  Beans,  said  to  keep  well  in  the  pod  for  use  in 
winter,  and  the  Valencia  Cluster  Tomato,  •.vliich  is  .'aid 
to  be  large,  smooth,  red.  and  very  fine. 

Send  Money  to  Thomas  Boult  & 
Co.,  (an  illegal  lottery  operation) — to  George  C.  Ken¬ 
neth,  (he  promises  to  lie  for  $Ili,  and  no  doubt  will) — to 
S.  B.  Goodrich  (another  lottery  swindle) — toC.  W.  White 
(he  says  he  lias  made  $50,000  by  selling  recipes,  and 
wants  to  sell  more— for  almost  every  thing,  from  yellow 
butter  to  white  brass  and  gold  coins) — to  James  Conway 
(he  lias  a  package  in  his  oare,  for  which  he  wants  48  cts.) — 
to  Hammett  &  Co.,  Seymour  &  Co.,  Brown,  Sherman 
&  Co.,  (professed  lottery  dealers) — to  J.  T.  Small  (Union 
Relief  Association,  with  lots  of  prizes) — to  Charles  A. 
Herbert  (another  $10  liar)--nor  to  any  other  humbug¬ 
ging  sharpers  who  flood  the  mails  with  their  circulars, 
promising  to  give  more  than  a  hundred  cents  worth  for 
a  dollar.  They  can’t  afford  to  do  it,  and  they  will  not  do 
it :  let  no  Agriculturist  reader  be  caught  with  such  chaff. 

¥.ool<  Ibr  tlie  GcBJcroHS  fi*odlcv. 

A  subscriher,  in  Western  New-York,  gives  an  account  of 
bow  some  of  his  neighbors  were  “taken  in  and  done 
for,”  by  a  smart  chap,  who  is  yet  on  his  travels.  He 
drove  into  the  village,  dressed  in  burlesque  Yankee  style, 
and  commenced  selling  worthless  jewelry.  To  each 
purchaser  he  returned  the  money,  and  allow  ed  them  also 
to  keep  the  article  bought.  Presently  he  sold  a  $5  green¬ 
back  (genuine)  for  $4,  then  $1  for  90  cents,  and  50  cents 
for  25.  after  which  he  scattered  a  lot  of  small  clnange 
among  the  crowd,  and  drove  on  slowly.  People  thought 
him  crazy,  and  a  throng  follow  ed  to  watch  his  operations. 
Presently  he  stopped  again,  and  began  selling  gilt  lockets 
for  $5  each,  which  were  rapidly  taken  as  before.  AVhen 
about  forty  were  thus  disposed  of,  he  said  :  “  Gentlemen, 

I  have  sold  you  those  goods  at  my  price  ;  I  am  a  licensed 
pedler  ;  and  now,  if  I  give  you  your  money  back,  you  will 
think  me  a  lunatic ;  I  wish  you  all  success  in  your  ordin¬ 
ary  vocations."  And  away  he  drove,  leaving  his  dupes  in 
doubt  whether  to  rave  at  him,  or  laugh  at  each  other. 
The  lockets  were  worth,  perhaps,  10  cents  each. 

How  to  Coolc  Hale.  —  A  Simple 
Way.— Take  the  leaves  and  the  head  or  heart  (which 
is  the  most  tender  part)  wash  all  sand  or  dust  carefully 
off,  by  using  fresh  water,  three  or  four  times.  Then  put 
in  boiling  water,  with  a  handful  of  salt  to  about  a  pailful 
of  kale,  till  it  is  cooked  perfectly  tender,  place  in  a  cul¬ 
lender,  press  the  water  out,  .and  put  into  a  stewing  pan, 
with  a  piece  of  butter,  gravy,  or  fat,  according  to  the 
quantity  cooked,  or  richness  required  :  let  simmer  for  ten 
minutes,  and  then  serve  for  dinner. 

Hard  Soap. — II  anj-  one  has  a  process  by 
which  good  hard  soap  can  be  easily  and  economically 
made  in  the  family,  he  will  confer  a  favor  on  many 
others  by  communicating  it,  w  ith  full  particulars. 

Catalog-lies  Recei-i-eil. — The  mirserynien 
and  seedsmen  seem  to  be  unusually  late  with  their  cata¬ 
logues  this  season.  James  Vick,  of  Rochester,  N.  Y., 
sends  his  “Illustrated  Catalogue  and  Floral  Guide.” 
which  is  a  work  of  more  importance  than  seed  catalogues 
usually  are.  It  has  two  colored  and  nntnerous  uncolored 
engravings,  with  descriptions  of  the  best  varieties  of 
flowers  and  vegetables,  and  directions  for  their  culture. 

- Peter  Henderson,  of  Jersey  City,  N.  J..  issues  his 

17th  annual  catalogue  of  plants,  which  includes  all  the 
standard  varieties  and  many  novelties.  Mr.  H.  has  re¬ 
cently  succeeded  Mr.  Davidson,  in  the  firm  of  Fleming  & 
Davidson,  and,  as  one  of  the  firm  of  Henderson  &  Flem¬ 
ing,  carries  on  the  business  of  seedsman,  in  addition  to 
that  of  florist. ..-F.  Trowbridge,  Milford,  Conn.,  sends  a 
catalogue  of  trees,  and  a  treatise  on  the  culture  of  the 
cranberry  —  F.  K.  Phoenix,  of  Bloomington,  III.,  is  out 
with  his  catalogue  of  general  nursery  slock.  He  is  very 
much  in  earnest  about  planting  trees  on  the  prairies. 
He  says:  “  Buy  or  not,  but  plant!  O,  Reader!  at  least 
seeds,  cuttings,  or  trees  from  the  forest!  They  grow 
I  while  you  sleep '  ’’....The  old  and  well-known  house  of 


J.  M.  Thorburn  &  Co.,  New-York,  have  published  their 
catalogue  of  vegetable  and  agricultural  seeds.  A  g.ance 
at  it  shows  that  prices  average  about  fifty  percent,  higher 
than  in  former  years,  but  this  was  to  be  expected.  Don’t 
buy  poor  and  old  seeds  at  any  price. 

“  Wet  Hays  at  EdLgjewoodl :  -with  Olo 
Farmeks,  Old  Gardeners,  and  Old  Pastorals,”  Is 
the  title  of  a  work  by  Ike  Marvel  (Donald  G.  Mitchell) 
just  issued  by  Scribner.  Those  who  have  read  the  au¬ 
thor’s  pleasant  account  of  his  "  Farm  of  Edgewood,”  will 
have  a  desire  to  possess  these  gleanings  from  his  rainy- 
day  readings.  The  work  gives  sketches  of  the  writers 
on  rural  allairs,  from  Hesiod  and  Homer  down  to  Cob- 
hett  and  Charles  Lamb,  and  all  told  in  the  charming  style 
so  characteristic  of  the  author. 


“Eessosis  for  Every  Siinilay  in  tlie 

A  series  of  208  lessons  (52  in  each  of  four 
books),  taken  from  the  whole  of  the  Old  and  New  Testa 
ments,  all  arranged  in  order  of  lime,  with  a  brief,  but  com¬ 
prehensive  history  of  the  entire  Bible,  and  accompanied 
by  appropriate  and  suggestive  questions  and  instructive 
rules,  references,  etc.  ;  adapted  to  scholars  ol  all  ages. 
No.  1,  on  the  Foui  Gospels  and  Acts;  No.  2.  from  the 
Birth  of  Christ  to  end  of  Revelations,  mainly  on  the 
second  half  of  the  New  Testament;  No.  3,  the  Perio'* 
from  Adam  to  Elijah  ;  and  No.  4,  from  Elijah  to  Christ. 
The  value  of  these  books  is  indicated  by  the  fact  that 
though  but  recently  published  considerably  over  100,000 
copies  have  been  asked  for.  Nos.  1,2,  and  3,  are  now 
ready.  Price  of  eacli.  15  cts.,  $1  50  per  dozen,  or  $12  per 
100.  If  sent  by  mail,  4c.  per  copy  ex>;a  for  postage, 
or  3  c.  each  in  packages  of  10  or  more.  No.  4  is  not  yet 
in  print.  Superintendents,  teachers  and  parents  are 
invited  to  examine  the  peculiar  plan  and  merits  of  this 
series.  Nos.  1,  2  and  3  will  be  sent  post-paid  for  50  cents. 

WoodlaivM  CeiBiet.ei-y  is  the  latest  born 
of  these  rural  repositories  for  the  dead.  It  is  upon  the 
line  of  the  Harlem  Railroad,  seven  miles  beyond  Harlem 
River,  and  can  be  reached  in  a  half  hour  from  the 
depot  in  Twenty-sixth-street  by  the  cars.  It  is  designed 
to  accommodate  New-York  City  and  the  numerous  vil¬ 
lages  along  the  lines  of  the  Hailem  and  New  Haven 
Railroad.  Facilities  are  furnished  to  attend  fimerals  by 
steam  cars,  which  are  found  to  be  very  much  more  com¬ 
fortable,  as  well  as  more  economical,  than  the  ordinary 
mode.  We  learn  that  the  association  have  already  ex¬ 
pended  some  fifty  thousand  dollars  in  improvements,  be¬ 
sides  the  purchase  price  of  the  land,  of  which  they  have 
over  three  hundred  acres,  with  the  permission  to  hold 
five  hundred.  We  are  specially  interested  in  this  new  en¬ 
terprise  in  our  suburbs,  as  it  is  under  the  supervision  of 
one  of  our  editorial  corps.  Rev.  W.  Clift,  recently  of 
Stoningtnn,  who  has  been  for  many  years  associated  with 
the  Agriculturist.  Onr  readers  will  profit  by  his  re¬ 
moval  to  this  new  field  for  Hie  exercise  of  his  vnral  tastes. 

Worlfs  om  EIsix  am«l  Hoji  Culture. 

— The  offer  of  premiums  for  essays  upon  the  culture  o. 
flax  and  hops  has  been  responded  to  by  a  good  number 
of  writers,  and  the  essays  are  now  being  read.  We  have 
no  doubt  that  we  shall  be  able  to  offer  a  manual  on  each 
of  these  subjects  that  will  be  of  great  practical  value. 

Sorg-liiim  Culture  anil  Profit. — Many 
reports  come  to  us  of  success  with  this  important  crop. 
S.  P.  Jones,  of  Hamilton  Co.,  Ohio,  cultivating  like  corn 
and  using  a  good  dressing  of  stable  manure,  obtained  of 
good  thick  molasses  at  the  rate  of  225  gallons  to  the  acre, 
which  at  the  retail  price  there  (1.50  per  gallon),  would  be 

worth  $337  50 . Another  subscriber  has  made  5,000  or 

6,000  gallons,  much  of  it  from  cane  of  excellent  quality, 
but  some  from  green.-frosted  and  mouldy  lots,  and  all 

purified  wilhoiit  the  addition  of  “  cliemicals.” _ Anothef 

reports  14.000  gallons  made  in  the  town  of  N.  Haven,  Ct. 

_ .5000  gallons  were  made  in  Meriden.  Conn.,  3000  in 

Berlin.  1000  in  Southington,  and  large  quantities  in  New 
Britain,  and  in  other  towns  in  the  same  State. 

Hiislf-Tearing:  Machine  Wanted. — 

Several  subscribers  inquire  if  there  is  any  good  machine 
for  tearing  corn  husks  to  prepare  them  for  bed  mattresses, 
etc.  We  can  not  answer — perhaps  others  can,  and  give 
cost,  etc.  Mr.  Thos.  E.  Pe.arsall,  of  Brooklyn,  L.  I., 
speaks  of  a  contrivance  got  up  by  himself,  and  unpatent¬ 
ed,  which  is  somewhat  similar  to  a  threstiing-machine, 
but  it  does  not  tear  them  quite  fine  enough  for  beds. 

To  Keep  Kats  from  Harness. — E. 

Snow,  Powesliick  Co.,  Iowa,  asks:  “Will  some  reader 
of  the  American  Agriculturist  fell  me  what  to  put  into 
harness  oil  tliat  will  prevent  rats  and  mice  gnawing  the 
harness  ?  ”  Won’t  it  do  foi  the  Editor  to  suggest  the  ad¬ 
mixture  of  a  moderate  quantity  of  good  strong  snuff? 
We  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  our  readers  also. 


38 


1 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[FEBEtTASY, 


Csilcecl  Hags — Garget. — Many  of  the 
applications  which  are  used  effectively  to  relieve  the 
acute  diseases  of  men  and  animals  savor  strongly  of 
quackery  :  yet  they  are  so  efficient  that  the  recipes  are 
treasured  as  of  great  value.  Here  is  one  such  :  “Take 
chamber  lye,  hot  as  hand  can  bear,  and  bathe  the  parts. 
Then  take  a  large,  smooth  stone,  wrap  it  in  flannel,  and 
rub  firmly  all  over  for  ten  minutes.  Then  rub  well  with 
hot  lard  and  molasses.  Do  this  every  hour.  Cows  with 
very  tender  bags  give  every  evidence  of  enjoying  the 
operation.”  We  would  substitute  brine  for  urine,  and 
gentle  rubbing  and  kneading  with  the  hand  for  the  stone, 
and  effect  the  same  results.  Bathing  in  warm  arnica 
water — either  the  aqueous  extract  or  the  tincture  dissolv¬ 
ed  in  water — we  have  found  very  efficacious. 

Kiclciit?!’  Cows. — J.  P.  W.,  Tipton  Co.,  Inti., 
writes:  "A  leather  strap  buckled  tightly  around  the 
loins  of  the  ^kicking  coiv’  succeeded  admirably  with 
me,  and  I  recommend  it  as  simple  and  easily  applied.” 

Flax  Wassfte  of* 

Mills  aild  Gas  Works.— “  Enquirer,”  Livingston 
Co.,  N.  Y.,  asks  the  value  of  lhe.se  articles.  We  advise 
this  experiment.  Takethree-lourthsor  four  fifths  flax 
shive.s,  and  one-fourth  or  one-fifth  lime  of  either  sort,  or 
both  mixed,  and  lay  up  a  compost  heap,  which  open  and 
work  over  after  a  few  weeks,  working  in  more  stiives, 
according  to  your  judgment.  Gas  lime  needs  thorough 
pulverization,  and  months  of  exposure  to  the  air  before 
It  will  do  to  bring  it  in  close  contact  with  gi  owing  crops. 
And  we  presume  bleachers’  waste  needs  similar  exposure. 

Broom  Coria  ISriisla. — C.  G.  E:r<rieston, 
Peoria  Co.,  Ill.,  asks  about  the  price  and  demand  for  tliis 
article  in  our  market.  Thwe  is  a  brisk  demand  for  a 
good  article.  It  should  be  bright,  light  colored,  long  and 
put  up  in  compact,  strongly  wired  bales.  The  prices 
quoted  for  medium  to  prime  are  $16  to  $18  per  cwt. 

Tlae  Cnxco  Potato. — This  one  of  Good¬ 
rich’s  seedlings  seems  to  have  given  large  returns  in 
many  hands.  E.  C.  Allen,  of  New  Haven  Co.,  Conn., 
reports  H  bushels  from  4  quarts,  cut  to  single  eyes  as 
nearly  as  possible— equal  to  an  increase  of  80  from  1.... 
1.  Tracy,  of  Grant  Co.,  Wis.,  received  by  mail  4  potatoes 
of  this  variety,  which  cut  up  into  one-eye  pieces,  yielded 
400  potatoes  averaging  larger  than  the  original  four, 
and  measuring  3  bushels.  This  is  100  for  1. 

Potatoes — Fiarge  or  Small  See«l. — W. 
H.  Cook,  Suffolk  Co.,  N.  Y.,  reports  260  bushels  of  large 
potatoes  to  the  acre,  raised  from  small  seed. 

Bullcley’s  Seetllims’  Potato.  —  J.  T. 
Mapes.  Orange  Co.,  N.  Y.  We  have  not  heard  of  this 
variety  for  the  past  two  years.  Perhaps  some  of  our 
readers  can  tell  about  it. — We  knew  it  by  no  other  name. 


Injured.  Peach  'SVees. — G.  K.,  Berrien 
Co.,  Mich.,  has  bought  a  place,  upon  which  is  an  orchard 
of  peaches,  the  trees  in  which  have  been  injured  by 
cattle,  and  asks  what  he  shall  do  with  them.  Tlie  treat¬ 
ment  will  depend  upon  the  age  of  the  trees,  and  the  ex¬ 
tent  to  which  they  are  injured.  If  they  are  young  and 
vigorous,  and  shoots  can  be  obtained  from  above  the 
junction  of  the  bud  with  the  stock,  they  may  be  headed 
back,  and  one  or  three  shoots  allowed  to  grow  to  renew 
the  head.  It  is  no  objection  that  the  head  is  formed 
close  to  the  ground.  The  work  may  be  done  at  the  time 
the  buds  swell,  as  at  that  time  the  dead  and  living  por¬ 
tions  are  best  distinguished. 

Exposure  f5»r  Pear  Trees.—'' Toting 
Orchard,”  Sandy  Hook,  Conn.  Any  other  than  a  full 
Southern  or  Eastern  exposure  is  to  be  preferred,  it  being 
generally  admitted  that  one  source  of  disease  in  pear 
trees  is  the  sun’s  action  upon  the  naked  and  frozen  limbs. 


A  Productive  Plot  of  Ground.— We 
receive  statements  of  the  great  returns  from  small  parcels 
of  ground,  too  numerous  for  publication,  but  they  are  all 
Interesting  as  showing  how  much  good  management, 
with  high  manuring,  will  produce  from  a  small  area,  and 
leach  a  lesson  tliat  may  be  profitably  considered  by  farm¬ 
ers  as  well  as  gardeners.  One  of  our  correspondents 
forcibly  states  that  “retail  manuring  and  wholesale  crop¬ 
ping  don’t  pay.”  A  subscriber,  in  Westchester  Co.,  obtain¬ 
ed  from  a  plot  of  ground,  12x24.  tomatoes  which  sold  for 
$14.50,  at  which  rate  an  acre  would  yield  over  $2,000.  In 
statements  of  this  kiml,  we  seldom  have  the  cost  of  pro¬ 
duction  given,  nor  any  intimation  whether  the  crop  was 
sold  at  wholesale  or  retail  prices. 


llor.<se-P<»wcr  Suws. — James  A.  Mitchell, 

Park  Co.,  Ind.,  inquires  for  a  horse-power  saw,  for  cross¬ 


cut  %vork,  which  does  not  require  to  have  the  logs  drawn 
to  and  moved  up  to  the  saw,  but  which  may  be  drawn 
to  the  logs  and  will  cut  them  as  they  lie.  It  may  be  there 
are  such  saws.  If  so,  they  should  be  advertised.  At  any 
rate,  here  is  an  opportunity  for  inventors. 

A  Msacliiue  for  grinding  or  tearing  up  clods, 
bogs  and  other  such  like  things,  used  to  increase  and  im¬ 
prove  the  manure  product  of  the  farm,  is  called  for  by  J. 
Hodges.  We  know  of  none  such  in  this  country.  It  is 
not  unusual  to  make  the  compost  heaps  so  large  and  flat 
that  they  may  be  plowed  and  harrowed.  The  advantage 
to  be  gained  by  having  these  materials  made  fine  by  one 
operation,  and  at  once,  as  in  the  way  suggested,  is  a  gain 
of  thne  only  ;  for  in  the  course  of  6  to  12  months  the  use 
of  lime,  or  fermenting  manure,  or  often  by  the  weather 
alone,  tough  bogs  and  sods  may  be  made  fine  and  soft. 

A  MssMiifsi.ctBarissg'  Macliime.  — 
That  is,  a  machine  which  makes  tilings  by  hand  ;  for 
mauM-facturing  means  simply  making  by  hand.  True,  we 
use  tliese  and  similar  words  very  carelessly,  but  really  a 
manufactory  is  a  factory  where  hand  labor  is  chiefly  em¬ 
ployed.  The  above  curious  expression  we  notice  used 
in  a  mechanical  journal  of  wide  circulation,  and  similar 
expressions  are  common,  but  none  the  less  incorrect. 

Bsii'iiiiag;  Hjiime. — “D.  B.”  asks  for  informa¬ 
tion  in  regard  to  the  most  economical  way  he  can  burn 
lime  with  w'ood.  Practical  liints  on  this  subject  will 
doubtless  be  acceptable  to  many. 

Aslies  for  Aspai-agiis. — John  Mill en,  of 
Highland  Co.,  Ohio,  covers  his  beds  with  3  or  4  inches  of 
leaolied  ashes,  and  finds  the  crop  better  than  with  any 
other  manure — weeds  are  completely  suppressed. 

lasi.rmess  ISiiclsles  amd  TriinMiiimg’S, 
— A  subscriber  asks  liow  harness  trimmings  which  have 
lost  their  plating  may  have  their  beauty  easily  renewed. 

Is  it.  a.  False  Wotiom  ? — An  Old  Farmer, 
of  Brady  Co.,  Pa.,  says  he  plants  his  corn  upon  land 
plowed  ,  the  last  lime,  East  and  West  (probably  not  har¬ 
rowed),  and  holds  the  opunion  that  fields  thus  planted 
come  forward  earlier  and  yield  better  than  those  planted 
on  furrows  running  North  and  South.  It  may  be  that 
soil  plowed  thus  receives  more  warmth  from  the  sun. 

Meepisag-  — J.  Woodward,  Wayne 

Co.,  Pa.,  says  that  cions  cut  “  in  the  old  of  the  moon  in 
February,”  put  in  a  large  glass  bottle,  corked  tight,  and 
placed  in  the  cellar,  will  keep  better  than  in  any  other 
way.  Without  any  reference  to  the  age  of  the  moon,  a 
bottle  may  often  be  the  most  convenient  vessel  in  which 
to  put  grafts,  to  keep  tliem  from  drying,  when  it  is  not 
practicable  to  bury  them.  When  sent  by  mail,  cions 
should  be  wrapped  in  oiled  paper  or  cloth,  and  if  packed 
with  a  litlle  damp  moss  there  will  be  less  danger  of 
their  drying.  If  to  go  great  distances,  paek  in  sand  in  a 
tin  case,  which  is  to  be  soldered  up  tiglit.  -Cions  put  up 
in  this  way  usually  come  from  Europe  in  good  condition. 

StrsftwlbeiTies  i®®*  Mew  .ffei'sey. — The 
Fruit  Growers’  Association,  of  West  Jersey,  held  an  ex¬ 
hibition  of  Strawberries,  in  June  last,  at  Morristown,  at 
which  the  value  of  the  different  varieties  for  cultivation 
was  discussed.  Mr.  Clayton  Lippincott,  one  of  the 
officers  of  the  society,  sends  the  following  account  of 
the  vote  taken  to  test  the  estimation  in  wnich  the  varie¬ 
ties  were  held  by  the  members:  Russell’s  Prolific,  11  ; 
French’s  Seedling.  15  ;  Downer’s  Prolific,  15  ;  Wilson’s 
Albany,  4  ;  Cutter’s  Seedling,  14  ;  Lady  Finger,  7  ;  Ilovey, 
7  ;  Feed’s  Prolific,  6.  The  vote  was  taken  by  each  mem¬ 
ber  selecting  the  five  he  considered  best.  There  being  a 
tie  upon  Hovey  and  Lady  Fmger,  another  vote  was  taken 
on  these  two,  w'hich  resulted  in  17  for  Hovey  and  9  for 
the  other.  Russell’s  Prolific,  French’s  Seedling,  Down¬ 
er’s  Prolific,  Cutler’s  Seedling  and  Hovey’s  Seedling  are 
considered  by  the  West  Jersey  Association  as  the  five 
best  market  varieties  for  cultivation  near  Morristown. 

WIsaf.  are  Bemontamt  Boses.— J.  L. 
Remontant  is  a  name  given  to  those  roses  which  bloom 
more  than  once  in  a  season.  They  differ  from  the  per- 
petuals  in  having  several  distinct  periods  of  flowering. 

Cliina  Grass. — A.  J.  Aldrich,  Worcester 
Co.,  Mass.  The  fibre  is  evidently  that  of  China  Grass, 
and  is  from  a  nettle-like  plant,  Boehmeria  nivsa.  It  is 
largely  cultivated  in  India,  but  we  are  not  aware  of  any 
trials  here.  The  fibre  is  from  the  tough  bark  of  the  stem. 


Strsiwl>erry  Bropagsatioiri.  —  T.  K. 
Payne,  of  $cott  Co.,  Iowa,  asks  us  if  it  is  true  that  plants 
from  lateral  runners  will  produce  fruit  inferior  to  those 
from  the  main  runners.  Without  having  tested  this  point 
by  growing  beds  propagated  in  both  ways,  side  by  side. 


we  should,  on  general  principles,  say,  that  one  runner 
was  as  good  as  another,  if  as  strong  and  healthy. 

— W.  H.  Orr  asks  what  he  shall  do  with 
a  lot  of  Hyacinths,  etc.,  which  were  received  too  late  to 
plant  out  of  doors.  Pot  them  and  keep  them  in  a  dark 
and  moderately  warm  place,  until  the  ground  opens, 
and  then  turn  them  out  without  disturbing  their  roots, 

Bausies,  etc.— Francis  W.  B.  Bobbins,  Suf¬ 
folk  Co.,  N.  Y.,  asks  if  Pansies,  Forget-me-nots,  and 
Violets,  are  the  same  plants.  Pansy  is  Viola  tricolor,  and 
the  cultivated  blue  and  fragrant  Violet  is  Viola  odorata. 
They  are  both  violets,  but  different  species.  Forget-me- 
nots  is  Myosotis  palustris,  of  an  entirely  different  family. 

I*ea  for  a  Mamie. — E.  C.  Clark,  Harford 
Co.,  Md.  The  pea  called  “  Coffee”  is  the  old  Chick-pea, 
Cicera  rieiinum.  Though  considered  less  digestible  Ilian 
ordinary  peas,  there  is  nothing  deleterious  about  it,  and 
it  is  largely  used  as  food  in  various  parts  of  the  world. 
It  is  said  to  be  a  good  substitute  for  coffee,  and  as  such 
the  seed  has  been  sold  at  a  high  price.  Wo  have  no  ex¬ 
perience  with  it  as  a  “  coffee”  plant. 

Massacliiisetts  Collee,— J.  L.  has  seen  a 
notice  in  a  Worcester  paper,  that  some  one  in  that  vicin¬ 
ity  had  raised  four  pounds  of  good  coffee,  and  asks  us  how 
to  cultivate  coffee.  The  “coffee”  in  question  cannot  be 
the  true  article,  as  in  our  climate  this  can  only  be  raised 
under  glass.  It  is  impossible  to  guess  which  one  of  the 
many  substitutes  for  coffee  may  have  been  referred  to. 


KyaMizirng:.— “M.  P.,”  Concord,  N.  H.,  write* 
to  the  Amertcare  Agriculturist:  “  My  method  of  “  Ky- 
anizing,”  may  be  more  practicable  for  farmers  or  garden¬ 
ers  who  wish  to  prepare  a  few  stakes,  than  that  given  in 
the  Agriculturist  for  October.  I  dissolve  blue  vitriol  in 
water,  at  the  rate  of  one  pound  to  five  gallons,  in  an  iron 
kettle.  Then  take  well  seasoned  stakes  and  stand  them 
in  the  liquid  for  four  or  five  days,  a  little  deeper  than  they 
are  to  stand  in  the  ground,  and  they  will  come  out  well 
impregnated.  Sometimes,  when  I  have  wished  to  pre¬ 
pare  iong  poles,  I  have  cut  the  trees  when  the  leaves 
were  on,  and  put  them  without  much  trimming,  immedi¬ 
ately  into  the  vitriolized  water.  In  a  few  hours  the  vit¬ 
riol  will  have  colored  the  wood  and  leaves  to  Ihe  top  of 
a  twenty-foot  pole.  The  saturation  of  the  wood  will  of 
course  become  more  perfect  if  it  remains  in  the  solution 
two  or  three  days.  The  poles  should  then  be  allowed 
to  dry  in  the  air  before  setting  them  into  the  ground.” 

ISe»sliai*peB*istg  Files. — V.  V.  Deys,  Jack- 
son  Co.,  III.  The  best  way  is  to  take  the  old  files  to  a 
file-cutter,  and  exchange  them  for  new  ones,  or  let  him 
make  new  files  of  them.  One  will  thus  realize  all  that 
the  worn  files  are  worth.  There  are  a  good  many  file- 
cutters  in  the  country,  but  they  are  found  mainly  in  large 
tow’ns,  and  we  think,  do  not  put  themselves  sufficiently  in 
business  communication  with  their  neighbors  who  use 
files.  There  is  no  acid  or  “solution”  in  which  files  may 
be  dipped  and  re-sharpened.  If  a  file  is  made  very  clean 
with  ley  or  soap,  and  then  dipped  into  nitric  acid,  for  a 
few  seconds,  it  will  appear  to  be  sharper,  but  a  little  use 
very  soon  will  wear  it  down  smoother  than  before. 


Ice  Water  Cisterss. — “  J.  C.  B.,”  Fond  dii 
Lao,  Wis,  writes:  “While  in  Iowa,  last  summer,  1 
drank  cold  cistern  water  which  was  very  acceptable  in 
those  hot  days.  Bye  the  bye,  almost  ail,  or  at  least  a 
great  many  use  cistern  water— one  hundred  feet  not  be¬ 
ing  an  unusual  depth  required  for  wells.  The  cistern 
spoken  of  was  filled  with  snow  last  winter,  and  was  kept 
closed ;  the  family  could  draw  ice  water  at  any  time.” 

Fr«st  In  I*ipes  and  Fsimps  may  be 
removed  by  conducting  hot  water  upon  it,  through  a  rub¬ 
ber  tube,  such  as  is  used  for  gas  tubing  now-a-days.  The 
best  size  is  that  with  about  3-16  bore,  and  K  inch  walls. 
Put  a  funnel  in  one  end,  and  a  piece  of  goose  quill  in  the 
otlier,  (to  prevent  the  pipe  closing),  then  bind  this  end 
to  a  stiff,  but  flexible  wire,  or  piece  of  ralan,  or  willow 
long  enough  to  reach  the  ice.  Pour  in  boiling  water, 
keeping  tlie  lube  close  to  the  ice.  wliicli  will  thaw  most 
rapidly.  Two  pieces  of  rubber  tube  may  be  joined  by 
using  a  goose  quill,  or  short  piece  of  glass  or  tin  tube, 
to  unite  them,  slipping  the  ends  close  together  upon  it. 

Keeping'  Iron  Vessels  fs-nm  Bisst- 
Ing. — “  Subscriber  ”  wishes  to  know  how  culinary  ves¬ 
sels  may 'be  kept  from  rusting  on  the  inside.  It  has  been 
recommended  to  give  them  a  thin  film  of  beeswax.  Heat 
the  vessel  and  rub  on  enough  wax  to  fill  the  pore.s. 

Bolling  Fotsst.oes. — AVliere  does  llie  water 
go  ?  Potatoes  ctmfain  from  70  to  80  per  cent  of  water. 
■We  boil  them  in  water,  and  this  all  disappears.  Does 
water  extract  water  ?  No.  but  the  starch  grains  (which 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


39 


anv  one  can  see  by  rubbing  a  bit  of  raw  potato  on  glass, 
and  lelting  it  dry)  absorb  it,  just  as  when  starch  or  flour 
paste  is  bailed,  only  the  starch  in  the  potato  is  in  cells, 
which,  with  tlie  albumen  also,  prevent  it  forming  a  jelly. 
When  all  the  75  per  cent  of  water  in  the  potato  is  ab¬ 
sorbed  they  boil  dry;  if  some  of  the  cells  burst  they 
are  “  mealy  but  when  all  of  the  water  is  not  absorbed, 
and  the  cells  do  not  burst,  tliey  are  “waxy."  Potatoes 
are  more  digestible  when  boiled,  steamed  or  roasted  than 
when  fried,  which  makes  the  surface  tough,  and  slowly 
permeable  by  water  or  the  fluids  effecting  digestion. 

Candy  from  Sorg’linm.— A  subscriber 
asks  how  to  make  “  Taffy  ”  candy  from  Sorghum  syrup. 
The  method  with  New  Orleans  molasses  is.  to  boil  I  pint 
of  molasses  and  K  lb.  of  butler  together  until  it  hardens 
when  cold.  Those  who  have  experimented  witli  sor¬ 
ghum  molasses  can  say  if  any  different  way  Is  necessary. 


©Id  ISoop  Sliirts.—C.  T.  Starr,  Chester 
Co..  Pa.,  suggests  that  old  hoop  skirts  may  be  used  to 
make  trellises  for  climbing  and  other  plants,  in  the  same 
manner  that  rattan  is  often  used.  Tliat  will  dispose  of  a 
few,  but  what  sliall  be  done  with  the  rest  ? 

Hang-  Up  tlae  Krooms  and  'I'ooSs.— 

“  W.”  says  :  “  Why  do  99  in  every  100  housekeepers  set 
tlieir  brooms  in  the  corner  brush  down  T  Miserably  slack 
practice!  Put  a  half-cent  screw  eye  in  the  h:indle  of 
each  broom,  and  suspend  it  by  a  nail:  and  then  tell  the 
man  to  .serve  every  rake,  hoe,  etc.,  in  the  same  way.” 

Water  Pipes.— W.  B.  IValdo,  Duchess  Co., 
N.  Y.,  does  not  wish  to  use  lead  pipe  through  which  to 
pump  water  from  his  well.  Iron  pipe,  “galvanized,”  as 
it  is  called,  that  is,  coated  inside  and  out  with  zinc,  is 
probably  the  best  pipe  you  can  use.  There  is  a  kind 
of  wooden  tube,  bored  out  of  3x3  or  4x4  joists  which 
might  do  if  coated  inside  and  out  with  paint  or  cement. 


Clean  Kettles  and  Vials.--A  corres¬ 
pondent  writes  to  the  Agriculturist  :  No  vial  or  bottle 
should  ever  be  put  aside,  without  cleansing  it,  ready  for 
use,  and  fitting  it  with  a  cork  to  keep  out  du.st.  Few 
houses  contain  any  convenience  for  draining  bottles,  etc. 
Every  one  should  have  a  board  say  8  inches  wide,  and 
long  enougli  to  reach  across  tlie  sink,  containing  holes 
bored  5  inches  from  centre  to  centre  with  a  1  5-8  inch  bit, 
interspersed  with  smaller  ones,  varying  in  size,  or  with 
upright  hard  wood  pins,  4  or  5  inches  high,  for  vials. 

Tin  Tree  Ualwjlis.— “  A.  M.  W.”  says  be 
uses  them  and  likes  them.  The  names  must  be  scratch¬ 
ed  with  an  awl.  The  weather  rusts  the  iron,  laid  bare 
by  the  scratch,  and  thus  brings  out  the  writing  clearly. 
They  will  no  doubt  last  several  years,  but  the  rust  will 
finally  spread,  and  make  the  inscription  quite  indistinct. 

Peach  Trees  for  Pea  Brush.— D. 

Emerson,  Summit  Co.,  Ohio,  says  that  he  grows  peach 
trees  in  his  garden  for  furnishing  pea  brush.  The  same 
roots  last  for  several  years,  and  throw  up  a  new  crop  of 
shoots  each  year.  In  localities  where  suitable  brush  can 
not  be  obtained,  it  may  pay  to  raise  it  in  this  way.  We 
once  used  a  lot  of  overgrow  n  nursery  stocks  for  peas,  and 
found  them,  as  Mr.  E.  states,  “handy  and  symmetrical.” 

Protection  of  Melon  f^ines  Against 

Bugs. — E.  B.  Ester,  of  Essex  Co.,  N.  Y.,  states  that 
last  spring  he  employed  Benzine,  such  as  is  used  by  paint¬ 
ers  instead  of  turpentine,  dipping  rags  in  it,  and  setting 
them,  held  in  split  sticks,  near  each  hill  of  cucumbers, 
squashes,  melons,  etc.  Before,  the  striped  bugs  or  beetles 
{Galeruca  vitatta)  were  abundant,  and  doing  great  harm. 
Afterwards,  they  all  di.sappeared. 

©as  Tar  for  Wasps  Nests.— A  small 
quantity  of  gas  tar  poured  into  the  nests  after  dark,  is 
said  to  destroy  the  wasps  before  morning.  A  bit  of  turf 
is  laid  over  the  hole  after  pouring  in  the  tar. 

C 

Maple  Trees  and  Peacli  Trees 
Growing  from  Layers.— W.  B.  Waldo  sends  the 
following  statement  to  the  American  Agriculturist: 
“  Years  ago  I  got  maple  trees  for  the  front  of  my  house. 
They  were  quite  large  and  tall.  I  feared  they  would 
lean,  on  account  of  length  and  weight.  My  hired  man 
requested  the  privilege  of  planting,  and  I  consented.  He 
set  them  so  deep  that  the  surface  roots  were  a  foot  or 
two  below  the  surface.  Every  limb  was  pruned  off.  ex¬ 
cept  some  little  watery  sprouts.  The  first  year  these 
leaved  out.  The  second,  again.  So  for  seven  consecu¬ 
tive  years,  T  do  not  believe  these  trees  added  to  their 
weight  three  pounds  apiece.  The  eighth  year  they 
started  and  made  limbs  six  rr  seven  feet  long.  On  ex¬ 
amining  below.  I  found  the  surface  roots  had  started 


very  thriftily.  The  trees  grew  rapidly,  and  are  now 
large,  healthy  trees.  I  do  not  believe  there  is  an  original 
root  about  the  trees,  but  that  every  one  is  a  genuine  layer. 
“  I  once  planted  a  lot  of  peach  pits,  very  carefully. 
Some  in  the  garden  were  six  inches  underground.  On 
taking  these  up,  I  found  roots  protruding  from  the  stem 
several  inches  above  where  they  should  be.  On  split¬ 
ting  them  down  through  the  pith,  I  found  it  dark  yellow, 
rusty,  and  unhealthy  in  appearance.  I  rejected  every  one 
of  these,  for  they  were  layers  too,  if  stems  striking  root 
are  so.  A  peach  pit,  stuck  point  foremost  in  the  ground, 
throws  a  straight,  smooth  stem  up,  and  its  tap  root  down¬ 
ward.  Lay  tiie  pit  on  its  side,  it  forms  a  crook  and  plants 
badly,  exposing  in  the  short  bend  a  convenient  place 
for  the  worm  to  attack.” 

A  Itot-lSeil, — Mr.  J.  McAfee, 

Bristol  Co.,  Mass.,  encloses  his  hot-bed  in  another 
frame.  His  outer  frame  is  fixG  feet,  2j^  feet  high  in  front, 
and  3X  feet  at  rear,  with  sash  in  the  usual  manner. 
About  the  middle  of  Fetn  uary  he  fills  litis  to  within  8 
inches  of  the  top  of  the  front  with  manure  and  leaves. 
When  the  heat  is  up  the  manure  is  covered  with  rich 
loam,  and  aiiother  frame,  about  a  foot  shorter  and  nar¬ 
rower,  is  placed  upon  it.  This  inner  frame  is  covered 
with  sash,  and  has  a  space  of  about  six  inches  all  around 
between  it  and  the  outer  one.  which  may  be  filled  with 
manure,  or  left  as  an  air  chamber.  Mr.  M.  finds  that 
his  seed  bed.  arranged  in  this  way,  is  belter  protected 
from  frost,  require.s  less  frequent  watering,  and  that  the 
plants  are  not  so  liable  to  be  scorched  by  the  sun. 

Top  Brosssiia"'. — A  subscriber  in  Wasliinf'- 
ton  Co.,  0..  exi'resses  concisely  a  principle  which  fann¬ 
ers  are  very  apt  to  overlook,  viz.:  “  In  autumn  the  ground 
takes  up  manure;  in  spring  the  air.”  Top-dressings  of 
solid  manure  are  of  much  greater  value  in  autumn  than 
in  the  spring.  Fermenting  manure  ought  really  to  be 
covered,  at  least  lightly,  vriih  soil  if  we  would  obtain  the 
full  benefit  of  it.  When  top  dressings  with  animal 
manure  are  desirable,  the  loss  may  to  a  great  degree  he 
prevented  or  compensated  by  employing  an  extempora¬ 
neous  compost  of  manure  and  soil  or  muck.  The  kind 
of  top-dressings  which  have  an  equal  or  superior  effect  in 
spring  to  fall,  are,  liquid  manure  and  salts  of  various 
kinds  which  are  readily  dissolved  and  carried  down  into 
the  soil,  such  as  gypsum,  nitre,  soda,  saltpetre,  sulphate 
of  ammonia,  unleaclied  aslies,  etc. 

Clover  Sown  wifli  ©jit.s.— C.  L.  Kin- 
man,  Morgan  Co.,  Ill.,  asks  if  it  will  do  to  sow-  red  clover 
with  oats.  We  have  never  done  it ;  but  ciover  is  some¬ 
times  sowed  with  other  spring  grains,  being  bushed  in 
after  harrowing  in  the  gr:iin,  or  even  left  on  the  surface 
for  the  next  rain  to  cover.  It  may  be  sowed  by  itself  in 
the  spring,  anil  do  well  on  many  soils,  and  we  would  not 
hesitate  to  sow  with  oats  as  above,  if  desirable.  Any 
testimony  on  the  subject  will  be  acceptable. 

Uowr»lcavc«l  Clover. — Mrs.  M.  L.  Strolim 
sending  specimens  of  leaves,  writes  that  she  plucked 
from  a  single  clover  plant  22  leaves  of  4  or  5  leaflets  each. 

Bed  Sorrel. — N.  P.  Mix,  Franklin  Co.,  Ohio, 
imported  some  red  sorrel  in  clover  seeil  a  few  years  since. 
Now  it  covers  more  or  less  a  quarter  of  an  acre,  and  as 
it  is  the  only  locality,  in  his  neighborhood,  of  this  pest  of 
eastern  farms  lie  desires  to  extirpate  it.  Whether  this 
can  be  done  or  not  is  very  doubtful ;  but  the  best  thing  to 
do  is  to  keep  the  patch  in  hoed  crops,  taking  no  grass  or 
small  grains  from  the  ground  for  some  years— nor  re¬ 
moving  the  tops  of  potatoes  or  other  roots  in  which  the 
seeds  might  be  concealed.  This  will  confine  it  to  the 
locality, .and  go  a  good  way  towards  ridding  the  land  of  it. 

Cran'berries. — P.  Birkenmayer.  Cranber¬ 
ries,  from  a  very  wet  bog,  would  probably  be  less  likely 
to  succeed  on  upland  than  those  from  a  drier  locality. 
We  have  heretofore  expressed  our  doubts  that  cranber¬ 
ries  can  be  grown  upon  ordinary  soil  with  certainly  and 
profit.  Mr.  G.  N.  Wright,  of  New  London  Co.,  Conn., 
states  that  from  tw'o  square  rods  of  good  garden  soil  he 
gathered,  in  1863.  four  bushels  and  six  quarts  of  cranber¬ 
ries.  Some  of  his  plants  were  taken  from  upland  and 
others  from  low  ground.  They  increased  rapidly  and 
soon  covered  the  ground.  Last  year  droutli  and  worms 
prevented  a  good  crop  on  his  ground. 

Treatment  of  tlae  Orcliard. — J.  J. 

Richardson.  Bay  Co.,  Mich.,  revives  the  old  question  as 
to  the  cultivation  of  orchar  is.  The  general  practice  of 
good  orchardists  is  to  cultivate  the  ground,  while  the 
trees  are  young,  with  hoed  and  heavily  manured  crops, 
and  when  the  trees  become  large  to  sow  it  to  clover  or 
grass,  leaving  a  clean  circle  around  each  tree.  In  culti¬ 
vating  an  orchard,  every  precaution  should  be  used  to 
prevent  Injury  to  the  trees  from  whiffletrees  or  chains. 


The  Israella  and  Iona  Grapes— An  Ex¬ 
planation,  and  a  Wrong  Righted. 

It  would  be  strange  indeed,  if  in  an  independent  journal 
of  the  character  of  the  Agricu/turixt- discussingas  itdoes 
a  great  variety  of  topics,  and  its  Editors  receiving  every 
year  many  thousands  of  communications — there  siuitild 
not  sometimes  occur  an  error  of  statement  or  opinion. 
It  is  a  source  of  special  gratification  to  us.  tliat  not  hah 
a  dozen  times  in  twice  as  many  years,  has  there  been  any 

retraction  needed. - While  seeking  first  the  public 

good,  we  aim  to  be  always  just  to  individuals,  and  if 
through  oversight,  a  wrong  impression  is  conveyed  to 
our  readers,  no  pride  of  opinion  or  position  will  prevent 
a  proper  correction.  We  liold  that  a  liigher,  nobler  cour¬ 
age  is  indicated  by  a  change  from  false  opinion.-,  or  by 
the  correction  of  one’s  own  errors,  than  by  a  dogged  per¬ 
sistence  in  them.  With  these  views,  we  hasten,  on  un¬ 
derstanding  the  facts,  to  offer  the  following  exrlarvation 

In  the  December  Agriculturist,  appeared  a  communi¬ 
cation  over  the  signature  of  H.  P.  Byram,  tlie  material 
point  of  which  was,  that  Dr.  Grant’s  new  grape,  the  Isra- 
ella,  would  not  prove  elsewhere  so  early  as  had  been 
promised  for  it,  or  as  it  did  .at  Iona  Island,  because,  as 
Mr.  Byram  alleged,  the  vines  were  forced  into  two  or 
three  w  eeks  earlier  ripening  by  the  use  of  glass  in  front, 
and  protecting  and  heat-reflecting  wooden  screens  at 
the  back.  In  the  January  Agriculturist,  both  Dr.  Grant, 
(in  an  advertisement),  and  his  foreman,  Mr.  Bushnell, 
(in  the  reading  columns),  denied  in  toto  Mr.  Byram’s 
statements  and  allegations.  We  had  publislied  Mr.  By¬ 
ram’s  communication  in  good  faith,  supposing  him  to  be 
a  man  of  truth,  as  he  had  for  a  long  time  stood  in  good 
repute  as  an  editor,  and  among  horticulturists  generally. 
He  professed  to  write  only  for  tlie  public  good,  and  ex¬ 
hibited  no  appearance  of  being  governed  by  malice  or 
ill-will.  The  question  of  the  value  of  these  new  candi¬ 
dates  for  public  favor,  the  Iona  and  the  Israella  grapes, 
was  a  pi-oper  subject  for  discussion  pro  and  con.  When 
Mr.  Byram’s  letter  was  received  and  passed  to  the  prin¬ 
ter,  it  did  not  occur  to  us  that  it  contained  statements 
which,  taken  in  connection  with  what  Dr.  Grant  had 
published  elsewhere,  implied  want  of  integrity  or  hon¬ 
esty  on  his  part.  With  his  advertisements.  Catalogues, 
and  other  information  now  before  us,  Mr.  Byram’s  letter 
appears  in  a  very  different  light,  and  we  are  satisfied  that 
its  publication  by  us  was  wrong,  and  are  glad  to  avail 
ourselves  of  this  opportunity  to  make  reparation,  and  to 
set  Dr.  Grant  right  before  the  public. 

After  the  above  positive  denial  of  Mr.  Byram’s  state 
ments  (last  montli.)  we  suspended  judgment,  and  asked 
the  public  to  do  so,  and  we  set  about  an  inquiry  into  the 
facts.  Mr.  Byram  adhered  to  his  former  statements,  and 
referred  us  for  proof  to  persons  employed  at  Iona.  We 
souglit  the  evidence  of  these  persons,  with  that  of  others, 
which  is  given  below  in  a  positive,  verified  form.  We  con¬ 
fess  to  surprise,  mortification,  and  indignation, at  the  result 
of  these  inquiries,  and  at  the  strong  evidence  tliat  Mr. 
Byram  liad  previously  threatened  to  injure  Dr.  Grant 
through  his  own  influence  with  the  press  of  the  coun¬ 
try.  An  attempt  by  any  man  to  covertly  use  our  columns 
for  any  such  ends,  is  a  fraud  and  imposition,  upon  the 
publisher  and  editors,  and  upon  the  readers.  We  leave  Mr. 
Byram,  in  view  of  the  testimony  below,  to  settle  the 
matter  with  his  own  conscience,  and  with  Dr.  Grant. 

We  should  perhaps  add,  th.at  Dr.  Grant,  while  not  ex¬ 
cusing  the  motives  of  Mr.  Byram,  is  yet  charitable 
enough  to  explain  that  sashes  and  screens  were  used  with 
a  few  Delaware  vines  for  experimental  purposes,  but 
none  with  the  Israellas,  and  none  on  any  vines  in  the 
manner  alleged  by  Mr.  Byram.  Poblisher. 

[Copy.] 

Westchester  Co.,  ss.— We,  the  undersigned,  being 
duly  sworn,  do  depose  and  say,  that  we  were  employed 
at  Iona  Island,  through  the  growing  season  of  1864.  and 
daily  saw  the  management  of  the  vines  there;  we  have 
also  read  the  letter  of  Mr.  H.  P.  Byram,  in  the  Dec.  No. 
of  the  American  Agriculturist,  and  declare  all  his  state¬ 
ments  in  regard  to  the  use  of  “glass  and  screens,”  for 
hastening  the  ripening  of  the  Iona  and  Israella  grapes,  to 
be  entirely  false. 

Subscribed  and  swnrn'\  Alvah  Bushnell,  Foreman, 
to  before  me.  this  loth  I  Jacob  Herfeley,  Carpenter, 

day  of  Jan..  1865.  }  Patrick  Savage.  Propagator, 
Thos.  a.  Whitney,  (  Woolsey  Weyakt,  Planter, 

Justice  of  the  Peace.)  Ralph  Isham,  Trainer  of  Vines. 

[Copy.]  New  York,  Jan.  17th,  1865. 

To  whom  it  may  concern : — I  would  slate  that  I  have 
read  the  communication  of  Mr.  Byram,  in  the  Agricultu¬ 
rist  of  December,  and  also  the  one  signed  “  Peconic,”  in 
the  Ohio  Farmer.  I  have  been  at  Iona  Island  from  early 
Spring  to  late  Autumn,  and  during  the  growing  sea.soh 
almost  weekly,  from  two  to  four  days  in  the  week,  en 
gaged  in  the  critical  study  of  the  vines,  making  accurate 
drawings  of  them.  I  know  that  no  such  appliances  as 
M  r.  Byram  asserts  to  have  seen  in  use  there,  were  so.  My 
visits  to  the  vines  have  been  so  frequent,  and  my  observa¬ 
tion  so  thorough,  that  I  could  not  have  overlooked  the 
matter  by  any  possibility.  I  have  read  Dr.  Grant’s  state¬ 
ments  and  know  them,  in  this  respect,  to  be  true. 

Henry  Holtoh. 

Sworn  to  before  me,  this  Ylth  day  of  January,  1865. 

;  Wm.  M.  Martin,  Notary  Public, 


4:0 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Febkuabt, 


About  Advertising  and  Advertisements. 

Some  Hints  to  Business  Blen,  to  Contemporaries, 
and  to  Our  Readers. 

A  man  may  have  good  and  useful  things  to 
eell,  but  of  what  benefit  will  they  be  to  himself 
01  others,  if  he  only  knows  of  it  ?  It  is  a  duty  to 
Himself  to  advertise  his  wares  in  some  way;  and 
if  they  are  specially  useful  to  the  public,  it  is 
his  positive  duty  to  advertise  them  as  widely  as 
possible.  In  illustration,  take  the  history  of 
this  journal.  It  was  one  of  the  first  good 
capers  of  its  class  isssued,  and  had  it  gone  into 
every  family  in  the  land,  it  would  have  awakened 
thought  and  experiment,  and  have  benefited 
the  country  untold  millions.  Yet  for  ten  years, 
comparatively  few  thousands  knew  of  its  exist¬ 
ence,  or  that  it  would  be  beneficial  to  them, 
and  its  influence  was  therefore  limited.  A 
few  years  ago  the  Publisher  concluded  that  if 
patent  medicine  men  could  thrive  by  boldly 
advertising  nostrums,  then  something  really 
worthy  of  public  regard  should  succeed  l)y  the 
same  means.  He  therefore  began  to  advertise 
largely  in  other  journals,  and  by  handbills,  post¬ 
ers,  etc.  To  enlist  others  in  introducing  the 
paper,  desirable  premiums  of  good  kinds  were 
offered.  By  these  various  efforts,  together  with 
the  fact  that  the  journal  itself  has  been  maintain¬ 
ed  and  increased  in  excellence,  it  has  secured 
a  far  larger  circle  of  readers  than  any  other 
similar  journal.  Is  it  too  much  to  claim  that 
this  has  been  a  public  benefit,  as  well  as  to  the 
advantage  of  the  proprietor  ?  The  millions  of 
copies  of  this  paper,  sown  broadcast  over  the 
land,  have  without  doubt  done  much  to  awaken 
interest  and  promote  improvements,  and  thou¬ 
sands  have  actually  thanked  the  publisher  for 
leading  and  almost  compelling  them  to  read, 
and  to  think  about  their  own  calling.  Tims  our 
double  object  is  gained;  we  advertise,  offer  pre¬ 
miums,  etc.,  “  to  do  good  and  make  money.” 

In  further  illustration  of  the  desirableness  of 
advertising,  take  the  case  of  a  good  nurseryman 
— one  who  starts  with  the  determination  to  do  a 
straightforward,  honest  business.  It  may  cost 
him  $10,000  a  j’-eartokeep  up  his  establishment, 
and  he  may  sell  just  enough  to  meet  expenses. 
If  he  had  customers  he  could  produce  and  sell 
$10,000  worth  more  of  trees  wfithout  increasing 
his  annual  expenses  by  $3,000.  Would  it  not 
pay  to  spend  $2,000  or  $3,000,  or  more  even,  in 
making  his  business  widely  known  ?  There  are 
plenty  of  people  already  interested  in  horticul¬ 
ture  who  would  like  to  know  all  about  his 
stock;  others  would  be  led  to  think  about  trees 
and  then  buy  them,  if  our  good  nurserymen 
would  advertise  so  strongly  as  to  compel  atten¬ 
tion.  An  honest  nurseryman  should  above  all 
others  advertise  so  largely  as  to  get  the  start  of 
dishonest  dealers.  So  with  seedsmen,  and  almost 
every  other  class  of  respectable  business  men. 

In  these  remarks  we  have  no  “  ax  to 
grind”.  All  our  available  space  for  advertising 
is  taken  up  early,  frequently  overcrowding  the 
reading  matter  more  than  we  desire.  This 
would  not  be  permitted  were  not  the  advertise¬ 
ments  valuable  to  our  readers.  As  it  is,  we  are 
compelled  to  shut  out  many  for  want  of  room. 

And  now  a  word  to  some  of  our  contempora¬ 
ries.  If  they  would  only  exclude  worthless  ad¬ 
vertisements,  good  dealers  would  more  readily 
patronize  their  columns — those  who  dislike 
to  appear  among  quacks,  “  gift  enterprise  men,” 
etc.  Some  say  they  can  not  live  without  taking 
such  advertisements.  Better  die  at  once  then, 
than  live  as  the  agent  of  such  parties.  Others 


say  they  can  not  decide  between  the  good  and 
the  bad.  If  an  editor  can  not,  with  all  his 
means  of  information,  it  is  hard  for  his  readers. 
But  it  is  not  difficult.  The  editor  in  charge  of 
our  advertising  department  is  instructed  to  ad¬ 
mit  no  person  whom  he  would  not  be  willing  to 
patronize,  if  wanting  the  articles  advertised.  By 
scrupulous  care  in  this  respect,  this  department 
of  the  paper  has  come  to  be  relied  on  by  the  read¬ 
ers  almost  as  much  as  the  reading  columns.  And 
in  this  matter  honesty  has  proved  the  best  pol¬ 
icy.  To  our  agreeable  surprise,  what  we  thought 
at  first  would  be  a  sacrifice,  when  refusing 
advertisements  which  could  pay  us  best,  has 
really  proved  the  most  profitable  course,  for 
reasons  already  set  forth. 

A  word  more  to  the  readers.  At  the  urgent 
request  of  customers  w’e  have  omitted  some 
reading  matter,  to  make  room  for  business  no¬ 
tices.  But  perhaps  the  space  is  best  filled  thus. 
By  this  means  a  great  ‘variety  store’  is  brought 
to  the  door  of  each  reader,  from  which  he  can 
select  what  he  desires,  and  easily  procure  it  by 
sending  according  to  directions  given.  Adver¬ 
tisers  are  always  gratified  to  know  where  their 
advertisement  were  noticed,  and  readers  will 
confer  a  double  favor  by  always  mentioning  the 
name  of  the  paper  that  gave  them  the  informa¬ 
tion  w'hen  addressing  parties  for  circulars,  or 
sending  in  orders. 


Maple  Sugar  Making. 


In  answer  to  a  request  last  month  from  prac¬ 
tical  sugar  makers,  W.  B.  Wentworth,  Allegany 
Co.,  N.  y.,  writes  to  the  American  Agriculturist 
as  follow's:  “I  make  from  1,400  to 2,000  pounds 
of  maple  sugar  per  year,  according  to  the  flow 
of  sap.  First,  for  spouts ;  I  think  the  sumach 
best,  the  pith  of  which  can  easily  be  burned  out 
with  a  piece  of  wire  of  proper  size.  The  spouts 
are  then  sharpened  to  fit  a  4  inch  hole.  I  bore 
the  trees  with  a  i  inch  bit  (a  little  smaller  will 
answer  as  well),  and  put  two  spouts  in  a  tree, 
unless  the  tree  is  quite  small.  When  the  holes 
become  dry,  I  ream  out  the  holes  with  a  pod  bit 
a  little  larger  than  the  first,  and  the  sap  will 
often  flow  as  freely  as  at  first.  The  sap  is 
gathered  and  boiled  in  sheet  iron  evaporators, 
the  best  of  which  I  think  are  made  of  tivo  sheets 
riveted  lengthwise,  and  one  across  the  end. 
This  is  turned  up  six  inches,  and  if  made  of  good 
iron,  with  a  4  inch  wire  put  in  around  the  top, 
or  a  strip  of  band  iron  1  inch  wide  and  4  thick 
riveted  around  in  place  of  the  wire,  it  will  need 
no  other  support.  Bars  of  iron  should  not  be  put 
under  the  pan,  as  they  would  cause  it  to  burn  out 
much  sooner.  An  evaporator  made  in  this  wa}’’, 
of  good  material  and  well  taken  care  of,  will 
last  fifteen  years.  The  syrup  should  be  boiled 
until  it  will  break  in  scales  from  a  sheet  iron 
dipper.  Then  strain  through  flannel  into  a  tub 
largest  at  the  bottom,  and  let  stand  a  few  hours 
to  settle.  Milk  may  be  used  to  clarify  the  s3Tup 
when  sugared  off.  The  milk  should  be  put  in 


when  the  syrup  is  cool,  and  thoroughly  mixed 
with  it.  A  good  vessel  to  finish  off  sugar  in,  is 
made  also  of  sheet  iron,  about  2h  feet  long,  14 
inches  wide  on  the  bottom,  and  1  foot  high— a 
little  larger  at  the  top — with  wire  put  in  to 
strengthen  it,  and  handles  on  the  ends. 

“A  very  nice  way  to  prepare  the  sugar  for 
market  is  to  run  it  in  moulds  made  in  boards  of 
of  cherry  (which  I  think  best),  or  good  pine  will 
do.  They  are  made  witli  a  tapering  center-bit, 
which  makes  them  14  inches  on  the  bottom  and 
enough  larger  at  the  top  to  make  them  come 
out  readily,  and  nearly  one  inch  deep.  It  should 
take  about  twenty  such  cakes  to  weigh  a  pound. 
Pour  hot  water  over  the  boards,  and  then  let 
them  get  nearly  dry.  The  sugar  should  be  done 
quite  dry,  and  then  stirred  until  it  is  just  cool 
enough  enough  to  run  smoothly.  Let  it  stand 
in  the  moulds  until  nearly  cold,  then  turn  them 
over  and  rap  on  the  board,  and  they  will  come 
out  nicely,  and  can  be  packed  in  boxes  for  mar¬ 
ket.  Saleratus  and  candle  boxes  for  packing  in 
can  usually  be  bought  at  the  stores  and  grocer¬ 
ies  cheaper  than  new  boxes  can  be  made.” 

A  Sap  Boiler.— Joel  Page,  Windham  Co., 
Vt.,  in  a  long  and  interesting  letter,  for  which 
we  have  not  room,  sends  a  description  of  an  ar 
rangement  for  boiling  down  sap,  w’hich  he  sa3f3 
is  much  used  and  liked  in  that  vicinity.  The 
engraving  gives  a  side  view.  C,  D  is  an  “  arch  ”  or 
walls  of  brick  work.  C  is  open  within  to  re¬ 
ceive  the  fire,  and  D  is  solid,  except  a  flue  at  the 
top  {F),  to  allow  the  smoke  to  pass  to  the  chim¬ 
ney,  E.  Cast  iron  bars  are  placed  lengthwise  ol 
C,  a  few  inches  fi’om  the  ground,  for  the  wood 
to  lie  upon.  The  fire  box,  C,  is  opened  and 
closed  by  an  iron  door  in  front,  not  shown  in 
the  engraving.  A  sheet  iron  pan.  A,  of  65  to  75 
gallons  capacity,  is  set  with  the  bottom  about 
two  inches  below  the  top  of  Q.  A  second  sheet 
iron  pan,  B,  of  like  capacity,  is  set  on  the  part 
D;  and  back  of  this,  next  to  the  chimne}",  E,  is  a 
heater,  E,  holding  15  or  20  gallons.  LT  rests  in 
the  opening  of  an  iron  plate  made  for  the  pur¬ 
pose,  just  as  a  boiler  is  set  in  a  cook  stove. 
Faucets  in  H  and  B  allow  the  hot  and  partially 
reduced  sap  to  pass  into  A,  where  the  boiling 
is  finished.  The  flow  may  be  regulated  so  that 
a  small,  constant  stream  will  just  supply  the  loss 
from  evaporation.  The  mason  work  of  the  arch 
should  be  carefully  put  up  to  support  the  weight 
of  the  pans,  and  also  to  ensure  a  strong  draft 
through  the  flue.  The  best  situation  to  place 
such  an  apparatus  is  on  a  hill-side,  where  the 
top  of  the  arch  ;nay  be  7  or  8  feet  below  the 
store  tubs  which  receive  the  sap  as  it  is  brought 
from  the  trees.  One  of  these  properly  placed 
may  be  furnished  with  a  faucet,  through  which 
a  regulated  and  continued  stream  may  be  dis¬ 
charged  into  the  heater.  The  whole  should  be 
properlj’’  protected  from  the  weather.  Such  an 
arrangement  wdll  answer  equally  u’ell  for  boil¬ 
ing  sorghum  syrup.  Mr.  Page  says  that  cast- 
iron  pans  require  less  continued  watching  to 
prevent  their  being  spoiled  by  burning,  but  sheet 
iron  are  the  best  evaporators.  The  above  ar¬ 
rangement  is  greatly  superior  to  the  old-fash¬ 
ioned,  huge,  open  kettles,  slung  on  a  slick 
supported  by  crotches,  which  were  formerly 
used ;  probably,  however,  some  of  the  evapor¬ 
ating  pans  introduced  for  sorghum  boiling  are 
better  yet.  Those  wh  >  engage  largely  in  the 
business  of  sugar  making  will  find  it  convenient 
to  study  the  various  plans  offered,  and  adopt 
the  one  best  suited  to  their  circumstances. — At 
the  present  and  prospective  prices  of  sweeten¬ 
ing,  it  is  worth  while  to  provide  in  season  for 
producing  all  the  maple  sugar  possible. 


1865.] 


AMERI  CAN  ACR I C  Ul/r  U  R I  ST. 


41 


Cheap  Frame  House,  with  Specifications. 

Tlie  house  plan  herewith  presented  is  sent  to 
the  American  Agriculturist  by  a  practical  builder, 
Mr.  J.  P.  Hopper,  Godvvinville,  N.  J.,  and  is, 
with  a  few  slight  modifications,  precisely  as  fur¬ 
nished  by  him  for  a  house  in  Hoboken  Town¬ 
ship.  Tlie  specifications  were  caiculated  on 
prices  prevailing  here  a  year  ago,  so  as  to  bring 


all  work  to  be  done  in  a 
good  and  substantial  man¬ 
ner,  and  the  ground  cleared 
of  rubbish  and  left  in  good 
shape,  etc.,  etc. —  Cellar  to 
be  made  4|  feet  deep ; 
foundation  walls  to  be  stone, 
laid  in  lime  and  sand  mor- 
tar,18  inches  thick  and  7  feet 
high,  and  neatly  poi)ited. 
Windows  in  cellar  4,  10  hy 

15  glass,  3  I'ffhts  wide . 

Frame,  26x28  feet,  witli  18 
feet  posts  and  hi|)  roof,  of 
sound,  si')ruce  or  liemlock 
timber;  iiosis  and  sills  4 
by  8  inches;  the  ties  and 
plates  4  by  6;  ratiei's  2  by 
6;  studs  3  by  4,  and  2  by  4;  all  beams  3  by 
8;  second  floor  ceiling  pieces  2  by  6  inches.  The 
whole  to  be  well  fi'amed  and  braced;  all  beams 
and  rafters  24  inches  between  centres;  sludding 
and  second  story  ceiling  i)ieces  10  inches  be¬ 
tween  centers _ Outside,  to  be  of  good  narrow 

siding,  say  5  or  0  inches  to  the  weather,  and 
lapping  1  inch,  with  close  joints,  and  nailed  to 
each  i)ost,  brace  and  stud. — Water-talile,  cor- 


Klg.  2.— First  Floor,  or  ground  Plan.  A.,  Hall :  R.  Sitting 
Room  or  P.arlor;  C.,  Kitchen;  D.,  Bedroom;  E.,  Bed¬ 
room  or  Store  Room ;  jV.,  iV.,  Closets,  sizes  Indicated. 

the  cost  within  §1,600,  which  price  would,  how¬ 
ever,  be  considerably  exceeded  now.  The 
house  fronts  toward  the  north,  having  a  piazza 
on  the  front  and  east  sides,  shown  only  on  the 
front  in  the  plans  (figs.  2  and  3).  The  front 
floor,  4  feet  8  inches  in  width,  opens  into  an 
entry  sufficiently  capacious,  containing  the  stair¬ 
case.  Prom  this  we  enter  the  sitting  room  or 
parlor  on  the  left,  or  pass  through  to  the  kitchen 
in  the  rear.  On  the  right  of  the  passage  is  a 
room  entered  from  the  kitchen,  answering  the 
double  purpose  of  store  room  and  kitchen  closet 
or  buttery.  A  small  bedroom  on  the  same  floor 
communicates  both  with  the  kitchen  and  the 
parlor.  There  is  a  cellar  under  the  xvhole 
bouse,  the  stairs  to  which  descend  just  outside 
the  backdoor.  The  house  is  26  by  28  feet; 
height  between  joints  is  as  follows;  cellar  7 
feel,  first  floor  9  feet,  chamber  floor  8  feet. 

“  SPECIFICATIONS 

of  materials  and  workmanship  required  in  the 
erection  and  completion  of  a  dwelling  house 
to  be  built  according  to  accompanying  plans; 
all  materials  to  be  of  merchantable  quality,  and 


Fig.  3.— Shcond  Floor,  or  Chamber  Plan,  K,  Hall;  J.  K., 
L.,  M.,  Bedrooms  of  tlie  sizes  indicated;  JV.,  M,  Closets. 

ners,  window  and  door  casings,  Ij  inches  thick, 
the  water-table  rabbeted.  The  cellar  stairs  to  be 
inclosed  with  narrow  beaded  ceiling  boards. . . . 
Cornice,  according  to  plan  (fig.  4) ;  that  on  piaz¬ 
za  smaller  than  that  of  main  roof. . . .  Piazza. 
— Rafters  2  by  4,  planed  smooth,  covered  with 
narrow  beaded  ceiling  stulf;  gutter  formed  to 
discharge  the  water  at  two  points.  Columns 

and  caps  according  to  fig.  5 . Roof  am\  back 

stoop  rafters,  covered  with  1  inch  spruce  or 
hemlock  boards,  with  close  joints  and  well 
nailed  on  each  rafter.  Gutters  formed  to  dis- 
chai'ge  the  water  at  two  points  bj^  leaders  to  the 
ground.  Roofing. — Any  good  cement  or  other 
roofing,  the  cost  not  to  exceed  5  cts.  per  square 
foot. . .  .Floors. — 1^  inch  spruce  or  pine,  wedged 
tight  and  well  nailed.  The  divisions  into  rooms, 
etc.,  to  be  according  to  the  plan. . .  .Doors. — All 
1st  story  doors  to  be  in.  thick,  double  faced 
and  moulded,  and  7  feet  high  ;  2d  story  doors, 
single  faced  and  moulded,  6  feet  8  in.  high.  Fixed 
lights  over  front  and  back  doors. . . .  Windows. — 
2  first  story  windows  with  7-inch  mullions, 
lights  10  by  15,  8  in  each  half;  3  windows  with 
12  lights  of  the  same  size  each;  3  second  story 


windows  with  7-inch  mullions,  lights  10x21,  8 
in  each  half,  and  windows  of  12  lights  each,  of 
same  size.  All  14  inch  sashes,  counter  checked. 


hung  with  cord  weights,  and  pio 
vided  with  sash  fastenings.  Gla.ss. 
first  quality  American . . .  .Stairs,  to 
have  14  inch  siring  and  steps,  3 
inch  risers,  wedged,  glued, blocked,  and  sti’ongly 
back  nailed,  with  a  24  b}-  34  moulded  black 
walnut  rail,  6  inch  fancy-turned  newel  post,  and 

14  inch  fancy-turned  baluster _ Trimmings. — 

Parlor  and  front  entry  trim¬ 
med  with  54  inch  casing 
“coved  out”  to  the  bead; 
moulding  and  back  band  7 
inches  wide;  kitchen,  bed¬ 
rooms,  etc.,  with  beaded 
casings  and  back  moulding. 

Base  7  inches  wide,  with 
Grecian  ogee  moulding. 

Closets,  with  plain  casing 
and  base,  shelved  and  fnr- 
nished  with  clothes  liooks, 
as  owner  may  direct.  Steji- 
laddcr  to  scuttle  in  roof. 

. ..  Plostering. — All  the  rooms  and  closets  jilaster- 
ed  throughout;  parlor  and  entry  receiving  a 
good  sand  “skim.”  All  other  rooms,  two  coats, 
even  Va\([  ....  Chimney  carried  up  fi  om  cellar, 
with  two  8-inch  flues,  topping  at  20  by  28  inch¬ 
es,  and  3  feet  8  inches  above  the  roof. . .  .Hard¬ 
ware. — Locks  all  mortise  locks ;  porcelain  knobs 
and  key  plates,  and  34-inch  loose-joint  butts  to 
first  story  doors;  mineral  knobs  and  3-inch 
butts  to  second  stoiy  doors.  Bolts  to  outside 
doors.  Judd’s  axles  and  pulleys,  and  Japan  s.ash 
fasteners.  Five  doz.  clothes  liooks. .  .Painting. — 
Two  coiits  white  lead  and  oil  outside  and  inside.” 

These  particulars  will  be  of  value  and  interest 
to  many  readers,  and  the  technical  expressions 
will  be  easily  understood  by  those  at  all  familiar 
with  building  terms.  The  house  would  be 
made  warmer  were  it  lined  with  brick  between 
the  lathing  and  clapboarding.  This  would  add 
considerably  to  the  expense,  but  more  than 
proportionately  to  comfort.  The  bricks  for  fil¬ 
ling  in  may  be  laid  in  a  clay  or  “  dirt”  moitar. 


Gravel  Wall  Houses  and  Barns,  Etc. 


Winter  is  the  time  when  farmer  folks  discuss 
building,  and  we  have  numerous  letters  asking 
our  opinion  of  gravel  wall  and  concrete  houses. 
The  subject  is  a  very  important  one  to  all  who 
build  dwelling  houses,  or  erect  any  masonry 
structures  in  a  country  where  stones  and  gravel 
are  abundant.  At  sundry  times  we  have  con¬ 
sulted  good  ma.sons  and  house  carpenters  in 
regard  to  the  value  of  concrete  for  house 
walls,  and  invariably  had  assertions  like  the  fol¬ 
lowing  most  authoritatively  made  :  That  the 
whole  thing  was  a  humbug;  that  the  walls 
would  not  stand;  that  they  would  absorb  mois¬ 
ture  like  a  sponge,  and  go  all  to  jiieces  after  a 
severe  freezing  and  thawing;  that,  even  if  they 
stood,  the  houses  would  be  damp,  the  walls 
“  sweating”  on  the  inside ;  that  they  could  not 
be  built  with  any  regularity  or  evenness ;  that 
they  would  always  look  unfinished  and  patchy 
if  indeed,  they  stood  at  all,  and  it  was  clearly 
•proved  (if  we  would  accept  thpir  premises)  tfiat 


Fig.  5— COLUMN. 


42 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Februabt, 


they  would  cost  a  good  deal  more  than  wood — 
fully  as  much  as  well  laid  stone  or  brick,  and 
not  be  nearly  so  comfortable.  This  is,  we  be¬ 
lieve,  the  experience  of  those  wishing  to  employ 
this  material,  who  consult  builders  about  it.  The 
few  who  persevere,  and  because  they  can  not 
get  regular  mechanics  to  do  the  work  at  reason¬ 
able  prices,  do  it  themselves,  often  meet  at  first 
witli  the  accidents  and  mishaps  to  which  all  in¬ 
experienced  persons  are  liable  when  tlioy  un¬ 
dertake  to  do  work  at  which  a  regular  appren¬ 
ticeship  ought  to  be  served.  The  walls  being 
carried  up  too  rapidly,  crush  with  tlieir  own 
weight ;  sufHcieut  care  not  being  taken  in  re¬ 
gard  to  a  dry  foundation,  water  freezes  in  the 
wall  and  makes  trouble ;  and  so  careless  work 
produces  its  legitimate  effects  in  other  respects. 
The  writer’s  knowledge  of  this  mode  of  building 
is  f()unded  upon  the  testimony  of  friends  and  ac¬ 
quaintances  who  have  used  it,  and  now  occupy 
concrete  houses.  We  advise  no  one  to  under¬ 
take  to  build  a  concrete  house  who  can 
not  superintend  it  himself,  and  in  fact  do 
a  good  part  of  the  work,  and  no  one  who  is  in 
a  great  hurry  should  even  think  of  it.  The  work 
should  be  done  in  fine  weather,  and  in  stormy 
weather  the  walls  should  be  well  covered.  The 
lime  used  should  be  uniform  in  quality  and 
fresh ;  the  sand  and  gravel  clean,  and  trials 
should  be  made  beforehand,  to  know  the  most 
desiralde  proportions  of  lime,  sand  and  gravel. 
The  quality  of  lime  varies  very  much,  but  when 
the  best  quality  of  building  lime  is  employed, 
(wliich  is  not  advisable,  because  too  expensive,) 
one  part  (say  a  bushel)  of  uuslacked  lime  is  said 
to  make  25  parts  (bushels)  or  more  of  concrete. 

A  friend  of  large  experience,  whom  we  have 
consulted,  says ;  “  By  all  means  advise  whoever 
wishes  to  build  a  gravel  wall  house  to  put  up 
some  small  building  or  an  L  first,  so  as  to  learn 
all  those  little  matters  of  manipulation  which 
can  not  be  well  described ;  and  fairly  get  his 
hand  in  before  he  undertakes  to  put  up  a  house 
of  considerable  size,”  and  we  entirely  believe  in 
the  wisdom  of  the  suggestion.  The  subject  can 
not  well  be  treated  in  the  limits  of  a  single  arti¬ 
cle  in  our  crowded  columns.  Another  month 
we  may  discuss  some  of  the  methods  of  putting 
up  the  walls,  materials,  etc. ;  adding  here  that 
we  have  rcpeatedlj^  seen  properly  built  houses 
of  this  kind  where  the  objections  specified 
above  were  without  foundation.  Mr.  W.  B. 
Waldo,  one  among  many  witnesses  we  could  cite, 
writes:  “I  have  had  some  experience  with  con¬ 
crete  or  gravel  wall,  having  built  a  small  house 
for  a  tenant,  and  a  fence  around  my  barn  yard. 
I  am  no  mechanic,  but  I  did  the  work  with  the 
help  of  a  young  German  (who  had  never  laid  a 
stone  except  to  repair  an  old  fence),  who  has  since 
occupied  the  house  five  years.  We  did  the  whole, 
wood  work  and  all.  Any  common,  neat  work¬ 
man  can  build  a  very  good-looking  and  desirable 
house  for  himself,  buying  only  a  little  lime, 
some  joists  and  planks,  floor  boards  and  nails. 
The  best  large  barn,  and  the  best  two-story 
dwelling  house  in  our  town  are  built  of  this  ma¬ 
terial.  I  think  you  cannot  better  serve  your 
readers  than  by  instructing  them  in  the  art  of 
gravel  building.  It  is  far  easier  than  to  lay  a 
commonly  good  stone  fence,  which  neither  the 
German  nor  I  could  have  done.” 


Embargo  on  Hay. — The  Maine  Farmer  re¬ 
ports  that  the  War  Department  has  issued 
special  orders  prohibiting  the  exportation  of 
hav  from  that  State,  except  for  Government 
ac  ount.  The  immense  supplies  of  hay  re¬ 
quired  for  forage  in  the  army  makes  this  step 


necessary.  The  Government  will  purchase  all 
hay  not  needed  for  consumption  in  the  State, 
paying  therefor  a  fixed  rate  per  ton.  Several 
large  lots  in  process  of  shipment  for  Europe 
were  recently  taken  possession  of  and  immedi¬ 
ately  forwarded  to  the  army.  The  price  paid  is 
$26  per  ton,  for  common  pressed  hay,  and  $32 
for  Beater-pressed,  the  latter  being  prefeiTed  for 
transportation.  See  last  volume,  page  236. 


Milk— Beef— Labor — II. 


Adaptation  to  the  Land. — For  whatever 
purpose  cattle  are  raised,  regard  should  be  had 
to  the  character  of  the  soil,  the  climate,  and 
the  topography  of  the  country.  Although  the 
various  breeds  of  cattle  will  maintain  their  pe¬ 
culiar  characteristics  for  several  generations, 
whether  they  be  kept  on  the  rich  plains  or 
rough  and  sparsely  grassed  mountains,  yet  as 
we  all  seek  the  greatest  profit,  we  must  know 
the  adaptation  of  each  breed  to  our  own  local¬ 
ity,  and  be  guided  accordingly  in  their  selection. 

The  adjective  lordly  has  been  well  applied  to 
the  Short-horns — the  breed  which  may  be  con¬ 
sidered  as  showing  the  greatest  effects  of  culture. 
They  are  of  the  largest  size,  well  boned,  but  not 
coarse,  with  small  heads,  large  carcasses,  straight 
backs,  wide  in  the  pelvis,  deep  in  the  flank,  ma¬ 
turing  very  early,  laying  on  flesh  and  fat  with 
great  rapiditj',  and  when  slaughtered,  remarka¬ 
ble  for  the  smallness  of  the  offal.  In  order  to 
exhibit  these  qu.alities  in  any  thing  like  perfec¬ 
tion,  they  need  good  feed  and  plenty  of  it,  all  the 
time,  shelter  in  cold  weather — in  fact,  good  sta¬ 
bling — and  the  better  care  they  have,  the  more 
rapidly  will  they  grow  and  fatten.  There  is  no 
reason  why  the  breed  should  not  be  perpetu¬ 
ated  in  perfection  on  the  blue-grass  pastures  of 
the  West,  or  in  the  clover  and  red-top  of  the 
rich  intervals  of  the  Middle  States,  and  in 
other  such  choice  spots  as  occur  in  the  valley  of 
the  Connecticut,  and  elsewhere  in  New-Eng- 
land.  As  it  is,  within  the  past  50  years  the. 
Short-horns  have  been  gradually  disseminated 
more  or  less  all  over  the  United  States  and 
Canada,  producing  a  great  improvement  up¬ 
on  the  common  stock  of  the  country.  The 
“grades,”  that  is,  half-bloods,  quarter-bloods, 
etc.,  being  the  product  of  crossing  the  bulls 
upon  common  or  half-blood  cows,  possess  the 
external  characters  and  feeding  qualities  of  their 
sires  to  a  great  extent. 

Very  different  are  the  characteristics  of  the 
Devons  (sometimes  called  North  Devons,  though 
the  South  Devons  as  such  are  not  known  in  this 
country  nor  bred  distinct  in  England.)  They 
are  much  smaller,  much  more  active,  tougher, 
able  to  get  a  good  living  where  a  Short-horn 
would  almost  starve,  not  so  early  in  coming  to 
maturity,  but  being  serviceable  proportionately 
longer.  The  cows  give  richer  milk  than  the 
Short-horns,  and  a  good  supply ;  they  require 
less  care,  and  with  flxir  treatment  remain  pro¬ 
ductive  and  healthy  to  a  great  age.  This  breed 
adapts  itself  peculiarly  to  the  rough  parts  of 
New  England,  and  many  portions  of  the  Middle 
and  Northwestern  States — especially  where  the 
steers  are  used  in  the  yoke  or  find  a  ready  sale 
as  working  oxen.  Their  qualities  in  the  yoke 
will  be  discussed  in  a  subsequent  article.  When 
put  to  feed,  they  fatten  rapidly,  and  many  con¬ 
noisseurs  think  they  furnish  the  most  delicious 
beef  which  we  ever  have  in  our  markets. 

The  Ayrshires,  Alderneys  and  Dutch  cattle  are 
peculiarly  milk  breeds,  having  been  bred  chiefly 
for  Dairy  purposes  for  many  generations.  The 
Dutch  cattle  are  large,  great  milkers,  slow  and 


logy  in  thei?  motions,  good  feeders,  and  are 
adapted  for  similar  situations  to  the  Short-horns 
The  Ayrshires  are  much  more  active,  smaller, 
not  above  medium  size,  thrive  in  good  pastur¬ 
age,  but  sustain  themselves  very  well  on  “  short 
commons.”  They  give  large  quantities  of  milk, 
but  not  rich  in  quality.  The  Alderneys  are  even 
more  active  than  the  Ayrshires,  but  are  great 
eaters ;  they  need  therefore  good  and  abundant 
pasturage,  not  of  the  juicy  succulent  sort,  but 
sweet  and  fine.  They  are  not  adapted  to  general 
dairy  use,  but  particularly  for  families  keeping 
one,  two,  or  three  cows  fbr  their  own  use,  or  for 
dairies  where  very  choice  butter,  a  “  fancy  ar¬ 
ticle,”  is  made.  The  oxen  of  these  breeds  are  not 
esteemed,  because  too  small  for  heavy  work. 

The  Herefords  are  adapted  to  a  wider  range  of 
pasturage  than  the  Short-horns,  not  so  active 
as  the  Devons,  but  are  large,  excellent  for  beef, 
of  not  much  account  for  the  dairy,  but  good 
workers.  They  mature  early,  and  of  course  like 
the  Short-horns  are  most  profitable  on  fat  past¬ 
ures.  On  good  fair  farming  land,  any  of  tlie 
breeds  will  do  well,  but  as  we  depart  from  this 
toward  either  extreme — toward  the  rich  prairies 
and  intervals,  or  sparse  pasturage — we  must  ex¬ 
ercise  judgment  in  selecting  a  proper  class  of 
cows,  and  suitable  bulls  for  their  improvement. 


Profits  of  Sheep— Dog-laws. 


Sheep  raisers  have  found  the  business  very 
profitable  for  the  past  few  seasons.  Fine  wool 
sheep  have  been  in  great  demand,  and  immense 
numbers  have  gone  westward  from  New-York, 
Pennsylvania,  Ohio,  and  Vermont.  There  has 
been  a  very  nearly  equal  demand  for  mutton 
breeds.  The  markets  for  wool  and  mutton 
have  been  good  and  the  seasons  favorable  on 
the  whole.  A  correspondent  in  Susquehanna 
Co.,  Pa.,  writes  to  the  American  Agriculturist: 

“I  know  a  farmer  in  the  township  of  G,  in 
this  County,  who  had  a  flock  of  twenty-four 
sheep  at  the  setting  in  of  the  winter  of  1863-4 
They  all  lived  through  and  had  a  common  in¬ 
crease  in  the  spring.  Immediately  after  shear¬ 
ing,  a  part  of  the  wool  was  sold  at  what  proved 
to  be  a  low  figure,  but  brought  $37.60,  and  28 
lbs.  was  used  in  the  family,  which  at  the  former 
price  was  worth  $19.60.  During  the  summer 
sheep  and  lambs  were  sold  out  of  the  flock  to 
the  amount  of  $35.00.  All  the  above  amounts  to 
$92.20,  and  the  flock  now  numbers  26.  What  is 
there  that  pays  better  than  sheep?  Yet  the 
damage  done  and  liable  to  be  done  by  dogs  de¬ 
ters  many  farmers  from  entering  extensively  in¬ 
to  sheep  raising.  There  has  been  a  law  passed 
within  a  few  years  past  for  this  and  several  oth¬ 
er  counties  in  this  State,  levying  a  tax  on  dogs ; 
but  the  tax  is  so  low  that  it  has  reduced  the 
number  of  the  dogs  very  little.  The  fund  so 
raised  goes  to  pay  in  whole  or  in  part  for  sheep 
killed  by  dogs,  any  surplus  going  to  the  school 
fund.  Now  if  every  man  who  reads  the  Agri¬ 
culturist  would  interest  himself  in  this  matter 
and  circulate  petitions  to  the  Legislatures  of 
the  several  States  for  laws  levying  a  tax  so 
heavy  that  it  would  materially  reduce  the  num¬ 
ber  of  dogs  it  would  be  far  better  for  our  country.” 

Our  correspondent  subjoins  a  form  of  petition 
which  may  be  used  in  bringing  the  subject  be¬ 
fore  the  law-makers  of  any  of  the  States. 
There  has  not  as  yet  been  a  single  State  through 
out  which  a  good  dog-law  has  been  well  en¬ 
forced.  That  the  thing  is  not  impracticable  has 
been  proved  by  the  enforcement  of  dog-laws  in 
certain  counties,  to  the  great  advantage  of  the 
agricultural  interest.  The  half-way  work  of 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


43 


permitting  towns  or  counties  to  legislate  on  the 
subject  for  themselves — that  is  to  enforce  a  law 
against  dogs,  or  not,  according  to  whether  the 
dog  interest  or  the  sheep  interest  is  strongest, 
is  making  a  farce  of  legislation. 

FORM  OF  PETITION. 

To  (tie  Homralle  Senate  and  House  of  Eq>resenta- 

fives,  of  (he  State  of . 

The  undersigned,  inhabitants  of  the  County  of 
.  ...,  in  the  State  of . . . .  re¬ 
spectfully  represent :  That  many  of  us  suffer  di¬ 
rectly  and  personally,  and  all  of  us  indirectly, 
from  the  destruction  of  sheep  by  dogs,  and  that 
tire  ravages  of  dogs  are  so  great  as  to  be  a  seri¬ 
ous  detriment  to  the  prosperity  of  this  State,  by 
preventing  farmers  from  entering  largely  into 
sheep  raising.  We  therefore  earnestly  request 
your  Honorable  body  to  pass  a  law  for  the  reg¬ 
istration  of  all  dogs,  imposing  a  tax  upon  every 
dog  and  dog  pup  of  not  less  than  one  dollar, 
and  upon  every  slut  and  slut  pup  of  not  less 
than  five  dollars ;  and  at  the  same  time  urge 
that  the  law  be  so  framed  as  not  to  be  easily 
evaded,  and  that  its  accurate  carrying  out  be  se¬ 
cured  by  rigorous  penalties.  To  this  end  your 
petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  will  ever  pray. 

- —I - — — - - 

The  Sheep  Mania. 


For  several  years  there  has  been  a  gradually 
increasing  interest  in  sheep  raising,  which  seems 
now  to  have  reached  nearly  its  height  in  a 
mania  for  paying  most  exti'avagant  priees  for 
fine  wool  sheep  of  different  breeds.  The  rise 
and  course  of  this  mania — for  such  it  now  really 
amounts  to — has  been  marked  by  much  more 
common  sense,  practical  views,  than  those  which 
prevailed  when  the  delicate  little  Saxony  sheep 
sold  for  so  much,  and  infused  their  next  to 
worthless  blood  into  most  of  the  best  flocks  in 
the  country.  The  exquisite  fineness  of  their 
wool  had  been  produced  at  the  expense  of 
the  constitution  of  the  breed,  and  the  result  of 
this  extensive  importation  and  dissemination  of 
the  Saxons  in  this  country  was  to  degrade  the 
vigor  of  our  merino  flocks,  reduce  the  weight  of 
the  fleeces,  not  increasing  the  fineness  in  pro¬ 
portion,  and  on  the  whole  greatly  to  discourage 
the  efforts  making  for  the  improvement  of  our 
fine  wool  flocks.  This  taken  in  connection  with 
the  uncertainty  of  our  tariff  laws,  was  sufficient 
to  bring  the  fine  wool  sheep  into  discredit. 

Now,  however,  it  is  very  different.  A  breed 
of  very  great  excellence  has  been  virtually 
originated  among  us,  and  become  extensively 
disseminated.  This  breed  of  American  merinos 
we  have  before  repeatedly  alluded  to — com¬ 
bining  as  it  does  the  excellences  of  the  Spanish 
merino,  with  larger  size,  better  form,  heavier 
fleece.  It  is  not  remarkable  that  upon  the  in¬ 
creased  demand  for  wool,  and  the  inflation  of 
prices  brought  about  by  the  war,  the  trade  in 
sheep  should  have  received  a  great  impetus.  At 
the  same  time  almost,  one  of  our  enterprising 
breeders  obtained  at  a  World’s  Fair  in  Germany 
the  highest  prizes  for  some  of  these  sam'e  sheep, 
thus  giving  them  a  world-wide  reputation,  which 
brought  to  a  certain  extent  a  foreign  demand,  in 
addition  to  greatly  increasing  the  demand  for 
the  American  Merinos  at  home.  We  hear  of 
sales  of  rams  for  $800,  $1,000,  $2,500,  and  ewes 
and  lambs  in  proportion.  It  is  even  reported 
that  Mr.  Edwin  Hammond,  of  Vermont,  refused 
to  take  $10,000  for  his  ram  “  Golden-drop.” 

jMany  people  have  taken  to  sheep  raising  who 
were  entirely  ignorant  of  the  business,  and 
every  animal  which  had  the  look  of  a  Merino 
and  a  greasy  fleece  has  had  a  ready  market.  If 


a  young  man,  with  a  good  farm,  well  adapted 
to  sheep  culture,  with  a  free  capital  of  $50,000 
to  $200,000  to  start  business,  and  withal  hav¬ 
ing  knowledge  of  farming,  a  good  business  edu¬ 
cation,  and  love  for  animals,  wishes  to  begin  to 
breed  sheep,  with  a  view  to  establishing  a  flock, 
and  making  breeding  and  improvement  of  sheep 
a  life-business,  he  can  afford  to  pay  very  high 
prices  for  his  original  stock,  and  for  such  ani¬ 
mals  as  he  deems,  necessary  to  improve  his 
flock  in  any  important  points.  Others,  who 
breed  for  the  current  profits  less  than  for  ulti¬ 
mate  reputation,  can  not  afford  to  pay  these 
high  prices.  They  will  never  get  their  money 
back,  except  in  the  cases  of  some  owners  of 
extensive  flocks,  upon  which  the  influence  of  a 
few  rams  of  good  quality  may  be  very  great. 

In  view  of  the  fact  that  the  use  of  well-bred 
males  is  the  surest  method  of  improving  any  of 
our  domestic  animals,  it  is  safe  to  assume  that 
there  will  constantly  be  a  demand  for  good 
rams  at  remunerative  prices.  Sheep  raising 
within  easy  reach  of  good  markets  ought  to 
have  reference  to  them,  and  to  the  production  of 
flesh,  rather  than  wool.  The  price  which  the 
coarser  kinds  of  wool  have  brought  the  past 
season  will  impress  this  upon  sheep  breeders. 
So  great  has  been  the  demand  for  certain  grades 
of  coarse  wools  that  they  have  brought  higher 
prices  than  superior  grades  of  Merino  and 
other  fine  wools,  and  have  met  with  a  much 
quicker  and  more  advantageous  market.  Tlie 
price  of  sheep  for  slaughter  has  been  high,  keep¬ 
ing  pace  fully  with  the  cost  of  corn  and  hay. 

- - -  10—  - - - 

What  are  Goats  Good  For  ? 


“  Good  for  nothing !”  exclaims  the  down¬ 
town  citizen,  as  he  takes  his  airing  along  the 
Avenues  leading  to  the  Park,  and  spies  the 
beasts  nibbling  stramonium,  dock,  thistles,  and 
other  coarse  herbs  in  the  vacant  lots.  “A  per¬ 
fect  nuisance  !”  cries  the  up-town  housekeeper 
as  she  ejects  them  forcibly  from  the  front  yard, 
or  snubs  their  noses  with  a  broom  stick,  when 
they  are  poked  through  the  fence.  She  is  about 
half  right.  An  animal  out  of  place  is  a  nui¬ 
sance,  as  a  plant  out  of  place  is  a  weed.  A  pig 
in  a  flower  garden  snuffing  the  perfume  of 
mignonette  and  roses  is  decidedly  objectionable, 
though  he  might  be  a  gem  of  a  brute  thrusting 
his  unjewelled  snout  into  a  muck  heap,  and 
feasting  upon  larvm  and  bugs. 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  thousands  of 
goats  that  roam  unmolested  in  all  the  suburbs 
of  our  cities  are  great  torments  to  all  eivilized, 
orderly  citizens.  They  are  thieves  and  burglars 
breaking  into  your  premises  at  night,  crawling 
through  the  smallest  possible  hole,  and  climb¬ 
ing  over  the  most  exemplary  fences.  You  plant 
a  favorite  shrub  in  your  yard,  the  gate  is  left 
open  by  some  careless  visitor,  the  goat  enters, 
and  your  darling  is  stript  in  an  hour  of  every 
thing  that  made  it  valuable.  If  it  escape  death 
not  a  flower  bud  is  left  upon  it ;  and  hardly  a 
twig  smaller  than  a  pipe  stem.  You  have  goat 
tracks,  filth,  and  destruction,  instead  of  your 
pretty  flowers.  Unless  you  are  a  Christian 
very  much  subdued  and  resigned  to  earthly 
losses,  you  will  have  indignation  and  wrath, 
heart  burning  and  harsh  words  for  the  poor 
Bridgets  who  pasture  their  untidy  flocks  on  your 
green  area.  No  doubt  this  nuisance  ought  to 
be  abated  as  much  as  mad  dogs. 

But  the  question  has  another  aspect  to  the 
Squatter  Sovereigns  who  rule  in  our  suburbs. 
“  In  faith  sir,  the  baste  gives  the  richest  of  milk, 
and  wht^t  d’y®  tbink  is  a  poor  man’s  tay  worth 


widout  a  sup  of  milk  ?  Don’t  ye  see  that  the 
goat  turns  every  praty  peeling  info  milk,  and  it 
don’t  cost  me  a  penny.”  Patrick’s  view  of  the 
case  from  his  side  of  the  question  is  a  very  sen¬ 
sible  one.  These  animals  turn  every  foul  weed, 
and  every  waste  of  the  shanty  into  wholesome 
food  for  his  children,  and  their  chubby  cheeks, 
flaxen  hair,  and  rolling  blue  eyes,  full  of  frolic 
and  fun,  are  a  good  certificate  for  the  alimentary 
value  of  the  article.  What  does  he  care  for  the 
trouble  his  brutes  give  his  rich  neighbors  ? 
Don’t  he  live  in  a  free  country,  and  don’t  tlie 
grass  grow  for  the  good  of  eveiy  body,  and 
wouldn’t  the  grass  and  weeds  run  to  waste  if 
his  goats  didn’t  eat  them  ?  The  goat  is  a  very 
useful  animal  to  the  Squatter  Sovereign,  and  he 
will  not  give  up  his  chattels  until  the  strong 
arm  of  the  law  compels  him  to.  There  ought 
to  be  a  tax  of  ten  dollars  levied  upon  every  goat 
kept  upon  New  York  island.  Perhaps  that 
would  right  this  great  public  wrong.  While 
the  Squatters  can  get  their  three  quarts  of  milk 
a  day  from  each  new  milch  goat,  they  will  not 
be  likely  to  give  up  their  privilege. 

Among  civilized  people  the  goat  is  a  useful 
pet  for  children — a  sensible  substitute  for  a  dog, 
inasnutch  as  he  draws  a  wagon  better  and  don’t 
bite  so  hard.  Ho  does  not  get  rabid  and  impart 
his  virus  to  your  child.  If  he  butts  him  over,  the 
fall  is  not  apt  to  be  dangerous,  and  rarely  conies 
unprovoked.  He  is  also  a  good  substitute  for  a 
grub  hoe  and  bush  scythe.  If  you  want  clean 
work  made  with  a  rockj'-  bush  pasture,  put  in  a 
flock  of  goats.  You  can  sell  your  scythe  for  old 
iron.  But  before  you  make  your  investment  in 
goats,  please  remember  that  they  are  death  on 
fruit  and  ornamental  trees  as  well  as  bushes. 


Italianizing  Bees  in  Box  Hives. 

BY  a.  QUIMBY. 


Many  bee  keepers  would  introduce  the  Ital¬ 
ians  in  their  apiaries,  if  it  could  be  done  with 
the  box  hive.  I  will  give  a  method  by  which, 
with  only  one  movable  comb  hive,  a  small 
apiary  may  be  Italianized  in  a  season.  First, 
introduce  an  Italian  queen  into  a  colony  in  the 
movable  comb  hive.  No  matter  about  the  bees 
being  all  changed ;  if  the  queen  is  inaugurated, 
it  is  all  right.  Drive  out  all  the  bees  of  some 
good  stock  into  an  empty  hive,' and  set  this  on 
the  stand.  Take  the  hive  from  which  the  bees 
were  driven,  with  its  contents,  to  the  stand  of 
the  one  with  the  movable  combs.  Lift  out 
the  combs  and  shake  or  brush  the  bees  down 
by  the  box  hive,  into  which  they  will  enter  im¬ 
mediately.  Now  take  the  movable  comb  hive 
with  contents  to  the  other  stand,  and  shake  that 
colony  into  it,  and  you  have  simply  traded 
hives  for  each  colony,  and  each  will  carry  on 
the  operations  of  the  hive,  the  same  as  if  it  had 
always  been  there.  The  one  in  the  movable 
combs  can  now  be  controlled.  After  a  few 
hours,  when  the  bees  have  become  quiet,  take  out 
the  combs,  find  and  destroy  the  common  queen. 
In  a  week  cut  out  all  the  queen  cells,  and  in¬ 
troduce  an  Italian  queen,  and  when  she  has 
filled  the  comb  with  eggs,  four  or  five  days 
after,  this  colony  may  be  transferred  also.  The 
process  may  be  continued  until  all  are  changed. 
The  cells  cut  out  being  Italian,  may  be  put  into 
the  rearing  boxes  to  hatch.  I  have  given  this 
method — perhaps  unseasonably — that  it  may 
be  understood,  and  one  or  more  movable  comb 
hives  be  prepared  before  the  season  to  operate. 


Make  a  man  think  he  is  more  cunning  than 
you,  and  you  can  very  easily  outwit  him. 


44 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[FEBBtiART, 


Some  Notes  on  Potatoes- 


Fig.  1 — COTTAGE, 
potatoes  as  uuwortliy 


Of  late  years  new  varieties  of  potatoes  have 
multiplied  with  a  rapidity  only  equalled  by 
that  of  new  grapes.  Some  of  tlie  varieties  of 
comparatively  recent  introduction  have  been 
sufBciently  tested  to  sliow  that  they  possess  de¬ 
cided  merit,  and  deserve  to  be  widely  known. 
There  is,  perhaps,  no  crop  more  affected,  in 
both  quality  and  quan¬ 
tity,  by  the  character  of 
the  soil  and  climate 
than  the  potato,  and  no 
kind  can  be  said  to  be 
equally  good  in  all  lo¬ 
calities.  The  first  re¬ 
quisite  in  a  potato  is, 
that  it  should  cook  dry 
and  be  of  good  flavor. 
If  for  marketing,  it 
should  be  white-fleshed. 
There  are  some  who  dis¬ 
card  all  yellow-fleshed 
of  cultivation — a  con¬ 
clusion  with  which  we  cannot  agree.  Though 
potatoes  of  this  character  will  not  bring  the 
highest  price  in  the 
New  York  market,  yet 
there  are  several  hav¬ 
ing  yellow  flesh  which 
are  valuable  for  the 
table,  and  on  account 
of  their  large  yield, 
profitable  varieties.  The 
size  and  depth  of  the 
eyes  are  of  importance, 
as  in  sorts  with  deeply 
set  eyes  there  is  great 
waste  in  peeling.  The 
keeping  qualities  and 
freedom  from  disease, 
as  well  as  the  produc¬ 
tiveness,  are  all  import¬ 
ant,  and  any  variety  Fig.  2— eakly  shaw. 
deficient  in  these  is  unfit  for  a  field  crop,  al¬ 
though  a  moderate  bearer  may  possess  other 
qualities  which  make  it  desirable  as  a  garden 
sort.  With  potatoes, 
as  with  fruits,  there 
is  much  confusion  as 
to  names, — a  very 
widely  disseminated 
variety  often  has  sev¬ 
eral  local  names,  and 
a  well  established 
name  is  frequently 
used  to  aid  the  sale 
of  indiflerent  sorts. 
As  it  is  difficult  to 
describe  varieties  in 
a  way  that  will  allow 
them  to  be  identified  with  any  certainty,  we  have 
had  engravings  made  which  will  give  a  much  bet¬ 
ter  idea  than  could  be  conveyed  by  any  descrip¬ 
tion,  however  carefully  written.  The  figures,from 
average  specimens,  are  one  half  the  natural  size. 

Early  Cottage,  Fig.  1 :  This  is  said  to  have  origi¬ 
nated  in  Albany  County,  about  the  year  1858. 
The  vine  is  very  strong  and  vigorous.  The 
yield  is  large,  early,  and  the  tuber  keeps  well. 

Early  Shaw,  Fig.  2:  This  was  introduced  to 
the  cultivators  around  New  York  by  one  of  our 
editors,  who  obtained  it  in  Michigan.  It  is  said 
to  have  originated  there,  in  Lenawee  county, 
and  to  be  a  seedling  of  the  Mercer.  Perhaps 
some  of  our  Michigan  friemls  can  give  the  true 


Fig.  3— SAMARITAN. 


account  of  its  origin.  From  the  fact  that  there 
is  an  English  potato  known  as  Shaw’s  Early, 
which  is  a  favorite  early  kind  in  the  London 
market,  we  had  sup¬ 
posed  that  the  story 
of  their  Michigan 
origin  was  an  error, 
and  that  the  English 
variety  had  been  in¬ 
troduced  into  that 
State  by  way  of  Can¬ 
ada.  As  two  Eng¬ 
lishmen,  both  of 
whom  were  familiar 
with  the  English 
sort,  assure  us  that 


our  Early  Shaw  is  a 


Fig.  4 — .lACKSON  WHITE. 


very  different  potato  from  theirs,  it  seems  prob¬ 
able  that  the  variety  did  originate  in  Michigan, 
and  that  it  unfortunately  received  a  name  which 
had  already  been  bestowed  upon  another  potato. 
The  vines  are  not  very  vigorous,  nor  is  the  yield 
large,  but  the  tubers  are  very  uniform  in  size. 
For  earliness  and  e.xcellence,  we  have  not  seen 
its  equal.  Even  when  taken  very  young,  the 
potatoes  are  of  good  quality.  The  skin  is 
wholly  or  partially  covered  with  a  characteristic 
roughness.  While  its  moderate  yield  will  pre¬ 
vent  its  being  a  popular  market  sort,  it  is  an  e.x- 
cellent  variety  for  the  family  garden.  Fig.  2 
gives  the  shape  and  also  the  comparative  size. 

Early  Samaritan,  Fig.  3  :  This  originated  in 
the  western  part  of  New  York.  Is  early  and 
of  good  quality  :  does 
not  yield  as  abundantly 
as  the  Early  Cottage. 

Jaclcson  White,  Pig.  4 : 

Supposed  to  be  a  seed¬ 
ling  from  the  Carter, 
and  to  have  origin¬ 
ated  in  Maine.  It  is  one 
of  the  standard  market 
varieties,  and  though 
not  as  early  as  either  of 
the  preceding,  its  good 
quality,  fair  yield,  and 
good  keeping,  make  it 
deservedly  popular.  The 
form  is  more  irregular 
than  in  the  varieties  al¬ 
ready  enumerated,  and 
its  eyes  are  more  deeply 
sunken.  Though  the 
flesh  is  slightly  yellow¬ 
ish  in  the  raw  state,  it 
is  white  -when  cooked. 

Fluke,  Pig.  5:  This 
is  a  remarkably  neat-looking  long  potato,  some¬ 
what  flattened  ;  has  a  smooth  skin,  and  eyes  not 
deeply  set.  It  is  late,  yields  largely,  and  keeps 
well.  A  friend,  who  tries  every  variety  of  po¬ 
tato  he  can  ob¬ 
tain,  says  that  the 
Fluke  “is  the  best 
potato  in  e.xist- 
cnce.”  It  has 
not  been  grown 
as  yet  extensively 
enough  at  the 
East  for  us  to 
recommend  it  for 
general  cultiva¬ 
tion,  but  at  the 
„  „  West  it  is  highly 

Fig.  6 — DOVER.  ,  ,  T,  . 

valued.  It  is  dif¬ 
ficult  to  see  how  any  potato  can  be  better  than 
a  properly  baked  Fluke,  as  we  have  eaten  it  at 
the  West.  All  potatoes  have  their  quality  more 


Fig.  5.— FLUKE. 


or  less  injured  by  exposure  to  the  light  and  air, 
but  this  variety  is  very  delicate  and  more  rapidly 
deteriorates  from  this  cause  than  almost  any 
other.  It  has  been  confounded  with  both  the 
Prince  Albert  and  the  Mexican,  both  of  which 
it  resembles  in  form.  Its  eyes  are  less  prominent 
than  those  of  the  Prince  Albert,  and  the  skin 
smoother  than  in  the  Mexican. 

Bover,  Fig  6 ;  A  very  marked  variety,  its  large 
and  deep-set  eyes  serving  to  distinguish  it  from 
all  others.  Where  several  eyes  come  together 
at  the  “  seed,”  or  “  blossom  end,”  the  depres¬ 
sion  and  irregularity  are  even  more  striking 
than  is  shown  in  the  figure.  The  other  potatoes 
noticed  above  are  white,  while  this  has  a  light 
red  or  pinkish  color.  It  is  of  excellent  quality, 
but  is  late,  though  it  may  be  eaten  whenever 
the  tubers  are  of  sufficient  size.  As  it  is  not  a 
large  cropper,  and  its  form  is  not  pleasing,  it  is 
not  a  good  market  sort,  but  by  many  it  is  pre¬ 
ferred  to  all  others  for  their  own  family  use. 


Driving  Horses  and  Oxen  Together. 


S.  Edwards  Todd,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist: 
“  In  many  parts  of  the  country,  horses  are 
often  hitched  forward  of  oxen,  when  plowing, 
subsoiling,  trenching,  or  performing  many  other 
kinds  of  farm  or  highway  labor.  Whether  the 
driver  be  by  the  side  of  the  oxen,  or  behind 
them,  the  horns  and  head  of  the  ox  on  the 
near  side,  will  often  interfere  with  the  reins ; 
and  if  the  driver  is  small  in  stature,  the  difficul¬ 
ty  is  increased  still  more.  Moreover,  a  man  can 
not  drive  horses  as  well,  while  he  is  traveling  at 
one  side,  as  he  could  if  his  reins  were  to  go  di¬ 
rectly  back  from  the  horse  for  a  few  feet.  Aty 
practice  has  been,  when  accustomed  to  drive  a 
yoke  of  oxen  and  a  span  of  horses  together,  to 
fasten  a  piece  of  board,  to  the  front  of  the  ox- 
yoke,  with  four  wood  screws — as  shown  in  the 
accompanying  engraving — through  the  holes 
near  the  top  of  which,  the  reins  are  allowed 
to  play.  The  board  is  about  one  foot  long, 
and  six  inches  wide;  and  the  holes  for  the  lines 
not  less  than  one  and  a  fourth  inches  diameter, 
and  reamed  out  so  that  the  lines  would  play 
easily  back  and  forth  through  them.  When  a 
man  uses  only  one  horse  in  front  of  a  yoke  of 
oxen — as  many  fiirmers  are  accustomed  to  do — 
this  simple  contrivance  for  holding  the  lines  in 
place,  will  always  be  found  very  convenient ;  it 
can  be  easily  removed,  when  it  is  not  needed. 


“  An  Important  Discovery. 


A  New  Era  in  the  Manufacture  of  Sugar — A  Prom¬ 
ised  Revolution  in  Commerce — A  Golden  Road 
to  Wealth." 

Such  is  the  heading  of  an  article,  which  orig¬ 
inated  in  Buffalo,  and  is  copied  into  papers  in 
various  parts  of  the  country.  The  article  goes 
on  to  tell  how  one  Prof.  F.  W.  Goessling  has 
discovered  a  process  for  obtaining  sugar  and 
syrup  from  Indian  corn,  that  at  least  three  and 
a  half  gallons  of  syrup  are  obtained  from  a  bush¬ 
el  of  corn,  with  “an  equivalent  amount  of  gran¬ 
ulated  first  quality  sugar,” — if  any  one  can  tell 
how  much  this  is.  We  learn  that  a  conqianj 


1865.  f 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


45 


has  been  formed  and  has  purchased  the  patent 
for  $600,000.  There  being  a  “Company,”  there 
■will  be  stock  to  sell  and  many  people  -will  be 
sold.  Starch  sugar  is  an  old  story,— making 
cane  sugar  from  it  is  altogether  another  matter. 


A  Talk  About  Grass.  •  •  •  -Ist  Article. 


Several  requests  have  been  made  for  a  series 
of  articles  upon  the  various  grasses  in  cultivation. 
Although  grasses  are  among  our  most  common 
as  well  as  most  useful  plants,  there  is  a  great 
lack  of  definite  knowledge  concerning  them, 
and  the  same  grass  is  in  different  parts  of  the 
country  known  by  different  names,  or  the 
same  name  is  applied  to  very  different  species. 
The  ordinary  grasses  are  readily  reeognized  by 
farmers,  but  if  asked  to  describe  Red-top  or 
Blue-grass  in  a  way  that  would 
enable  another  to  know  them, 
they  would  find  it  a  rather  diffi¬ 
cult  matter.  The  leaves  and 
stems  ot  the  different  kinds  of 
grass  are  so  mueh  alike,  that  it 
is  very  difficult  to  give  such  de¬ 
scriptions  of  them  as  would  en¬ 
able  a  person  to  reeognize  them  by  any  pe¬ 
culiarities  these  present,  and  we  are  obliged 
to  go  to  the  flowers  to  find  those  distingushing 
marks  which  will  allow  us  to  identify  the  differ¬ 
ent  sorts  with  any  certainty.  Unfortunately,  the 
flowers  of  grasses  are  very  small,  and  so  unlike 
the  flowers  of  other  plants  in  appearance,  that 
they  are  at  first  sight  rather  difficult  to  under¬ 
stand.  Still,  with  the  aid  of  some  enlarged 


Fig.  L 


drawings,  we  hope  to 
show  the  structure  of 
the  grass  flowers,  and 
then  it  will  not  be  diffi¬ 
cult  to  tr.ace  it  out  in  the 
grass  itself.  Let  us  be¬ 
gin  the  study  with  a 
head  of  Timothy,  which 
can  readily  be  pulled 
out  of  almost  any  hay¬ 
mow.  The  head  con¬ 
sists  of  numerous  little 
chaffy  bodies,  closely 
placed  around  the  stalk ; 
these  are  the  flowers. 
Carefully  remove  a  por- 
Fig.  3.  tion  of  them  from  the 

head  and  spread  them  out  on  a  piece  of  white 
paper.  Those  which  have  not  been  broken 
up  in  the  removal  will  appear  like  fig.  1,  and 
consist  of  two  chaffy  scales,  folded  together 
and  very  mueh  compressed  or  flattened,  fur¬ 
nished  upon  the  back  with  bristly  hairs,  and 
each  terminated  by  a 
stiff  bristle  or  awn. 

Fig.  1  is  what  is  cal¬ 
led  a  spikelet;  the  two 
scales  are  glumes.  It 
will  be  notieed  that 
one  of  these  glumes 
is  outside  of,  and  folds 
over  and  covers  the 
edges  of  the  other, 
and  that  the  inner  one 
isattaehed  to  the  min¬ 
ute  stalk  a  little  high¬ 
er  up  than  the  other, 
as  will  be  seen  in  examining  the  real  flow¬ 
er,  though  it  can  not  easily  be  shown  in  the 
drawing.  In  deseribing  a  grass,  the  glumes  are 
spoken  of  as  lower  and  upper.  In  order  to  see 
what  is  inside  of  the  glumes  they  must  be  care¬ 
fully  separated.  This  is  best  done  by  means  of 


two  needles,  fixed  in 
small  wooden  han¬ 
dles,  to  answer  as 
pickers.  In  examin¬ 
ing  a  fresh  grass  it  is 
easy  to  spread  the 
glumes  apart,  but  the 
dried  specimen  must 
be  soaked  awhile  in  a 
little  water ;  this  will 
make  the  glumes  fiex- 
ible  and  allow  them 
to  spread  as  in  o,  i», 
fig.  2.  Within  the 
glumes  are  two  other  smaller  scales,  c,  d,  fig.  2, 
of  a  more  delicate  te.xture,  ■which  are  cal¬ 
led  palecB.  In  the  figure  they  are  shown  de¬ 
tached,  or  lifted  out  of  the  glumes.  The  paleae 
have  the  same  position  with  relation  to  each 
other  as  the  glumes ;  that  is,  one  is  outer  and 
lower,  and  the  other  inner  and  upper.  The 
upper  one  is  almost  always  smaller  than  the 
other,  and  is  usually  marked  with  two  lines 
{nerves)  running  through  it,  while  the  lower  one 
has  from  one  to  several  of  these  nerves.  The 
shape  and  markings  of  the  glumes  and  paleae 
serve  to  distinguish  species.  In  the  case  of  the 
Timothy, the  bristle-pointed  and  flattened  glumes 
and  the  delicate  small  paleae  are  characters  by 
which  it  is  readily  recognized.  Within  the 
paleae  arc  the  pistil  and  stamens,  which  will  be 
described  presentl}'.  Examine  now  a  spikelet 
of  Red-top,  fig.  3.  Here 
we  have  a  similar  ar¬ 
rangement  of  parts, 
though  they  differ  in 
sh.ape  and  relative  size. 

The  lower  and  upper 
glumes,  a,  and  6,  are 
without  the  bristle- 
points  and  hairs  of  the 
Timothy,  while  the  pa¬ 
leae  are  more  unequal  in 
size,  the  lower  one,  c, 
being  much  longer  than 
the  upper  one,  d. — Fig  4 
gives  the  parts  of  a  Red-top  flower  all  separated 
from  one  another;  a,  6,  lo-^verand  upper  glumes; 
c,  d,  lower  and  upper  paleae,  while  the  stamens 
and  pistil  are  shown  above.  In  the  dry  speci¬ 
men  it  will  be  difficult  to  make  out  the  stamens 
as  they  are  delicate  and  readily  broken.  They 
are  shown  in  figs.  2  and  3,  at  e,  e,  and  eonsist 
of  an  oblong  case  or  anther,  supported  by  a 
very  slender  thread  or  filament.  The  anthers 
of  the  Timothy  are  light  purple  and  make  the 
head  quite  showy  when  in  flower.  The  sta¬ 
mens  are  also  shown  in  fig.  4.  The  pistil,  as 
seen  in  fig.  4,  is  a  little  egg-shaped  body,  which 
is  the  ovary  and  will  become  the  grain,  with 
two  feathery  appendages,  the  styles,  proceeding 
from  its  upper  portion.  These  styles  are  also 
seen  in  figs.  2  and  3. — In  fig.  4,  a  couple  of 
small  scales  are  shown  just  below  the  stamens 
and  pistil,  which  in  a  popular  account  of  grass 
structure  may  be  left  out  of  consideration.  The 
examples  here  given  are  among  the  simplest 
forms  of  grass-flowers;  if  the  description  of 
them  seems  dry,  the  looking  out  of  the  parts  in 
the  real  specimen  will  be  found  interesting. 


Eoad  Scraper— R.  I.  Bent  or  Bine  Grass. 

An  active  firrmer  friend  of  ours  in  Rhode  Isl- 
land,  often  urged  to  furnish  for  the  Agriculturist 
some  of  his  practical  notions,  writes :  “  Rather 
than  write,  I  would  like  to  mix  up  a  kettle  of 
hot  paint  and  apply  to  the  wood  work  of  my 


new  road  scraper — or  see  whether  a  pair  of  sled- 
runners  can  be  got  out  of  a  “  crook,”  I  cut 
yesterday — or  rub  over  the  hams  and  shoulders 
again — or  pack  the  sausages  in  snow — or  ride 
up  to  Greene,  the  sawyer,  and  stir  him  up 
about  that  stuff  for  a  portable  fence — or  sharp¬ 
en  the  wood  saws — or  drive  the  oxen  to  the 
village  for  shoes — or  forty  things  beside.  Ac¬ 
tion  forever !  General  Grant  (God  bless  him  I) 
will  find  his  pastime,  after  the  war,  in  clearing 
up  a  stump  or  Canada  thistle  farm.  I’ll  warrant. 
My  mind  will  run  back  in  spite  of  me  to  that 
road  scraper.  Let  us  work  it  out. 

ROAD  SCR.4^PER. 

“There  is  no  patent  upon  this  tool,  I  believe, 
and  it  can  be  built  by  any  one  who  can  make  an 
ox-jmke.  A  chestnut  or  oak  log,  of  2  feet  or  so 
in  diameter  and  6  feet  long,  is  worked  out  in 
the  manner  indicated  in  the  cut,  with  a  twist, 
gaining  about  a  foot  in  the  six  feet  length — so 
that  when  the  tongue,  which  is  inserted  diagon¬ 
ally,  is  in  the  yoke  ring,  the  right-hand  end  will 
meet  the  ground  like  a  plowshare,  while  the 
other  falls  away  to  the  rear  with  a  twist  like  a 
mould  board.  It  is  faced  with  an  old  saw  plate, 
and  is  good  for  raising  the  road  bed  of  a  new 
road,  or  for  smoothing  the  ruts  of  an  old  one. 
Large  staples  are  inserted  on  the  share  or 
tongue  to  receive  handles.  It  is  a  combination 

of  scraper  and  plow . Since  writing  the 

above  I  have  applied  a  hot  coat  of  gummy, 
cheap  linseed  oil  and  redding  to  the  wood 
work,  and  mean  to  give  it  two  more. 

E.  I.  BENT  IDENTICAL  WITH  KT.  BLUE  GRASS. 

“The  fiirras  of  Rhode  Island  have  a  grass 
which  they  call  “R.  I.  Bent.”  It  is  highly 
prized  as  a  pasture  grass  upon  lighter  soils, 
making  a  compact,  permanent  and  productive 
sod,  under  very  ordinary  conditions  of  fertility, 
and  is  used  for  lawns.  I  have  studied  it  among 
Naragansett  fanners  for  four  seasons  past, 
using  my  eyes  and  asking  lots  of  questions. 
Chas.  L.  Flint,  in  his  ‘Grasses  and  Forage 
Plants,’  classes  it  with  Red  top — for  which  I 
can  find  no  foundation.  All  the  information  ! 
can  collect  from  my  neighbors,  points  to  a  very 
common  grass,  of  habits  and  appearance  identi¬ 
cal  with  what  Mr.  Flint  calls  ‘  Green  Meadow 
Gras.s,  June  Grass,  Common  Spear  Grass,  Ken¬ 
tucky  Blue  Grass,  &c.  {Poa pratensis)'  and  says  it 
grows  all  over  the  Northern  States.  This  grass 
is  a  great  favorite  with  me.  I  find  it  in  all  hand¬ 
some  roadside  or  pasture  sod  in  Rhode  Island 
and  Connecticut,  and  during  a  recent  journey 
through  New-York  State  I  found  my  old  ac¬ 
quaintance  in  all  directions.  Near  Canandaigua, 
hearing  a  farmer  boasting  of  a  field  he  had  in 
Blue  Grass,  I  -was  at  some  pains  to  verify  the 
familiar  matted  aftermath  under  this  name.  It 
is  not  easily  eradicated  from  land,  nor  easily  in¬ 
troduced  ;  that  is,  if  you  plow  an  old  pasture 
or  meadow  containing  it,  and  take  off  a  crop  or 
two  of  grain  or  potatoes,  manuring  lightly,  seed 
enough  will  be  left  in  the  land  to  bring  in  the 


46 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Februabt, 


old  sod  again  in  the  course  of  two  or  three  j'ears. 
On  the  other  hand,  if  sowed  on  very  rich  land, 
with  spring  grain  and  other  grass  seed,  it  would 
he  choked  out  by  the  greater  luxuriance  of  the 
other  seed.  I  would  sooner  risk  the  seed 
bushed  in  upon  an  old  meadow  where  Timothy 
and  clover  were  failing,  or  alone  in  September. 
Almost  every  farmer  has  this  grass,  and  such  as 
graze  sandy  and  gravelly  land  can  well  afford 
to  cultivate  it.  I  propose  sending  you  a  sod  of 
“RI.  Bent”  next  summer,  in  bloom.  If  we 
can  drop  some  of  the  above  names  all  the  better. 
- -  ■  - •  ■ 

For  the  American  Agriculturist. 

Expensive  Shelter. 

In  a  recent  trip  over  the  Harlem  Railroad,  I 
saw  sights  that  made  me  feel  quite  at  home,  and 
ashamed  of  my  birth  place.  Connecticut  ideas 
must  have  emigrated  long  ago  across  Byram 
River,  and  established  themselves  in  Westches¬ 
ter,  Putnam,  Dutchess  and  Columbia  coun¬ 
ties,  and  it  had  been  fortunate  for  the  country 
if  they  had  stopped  east  of  the  Hudson.  Snow 
covered  the  ground,  and  a  bleak  northwester 
swept  over  hill  and  valley.  There  stood  the 
cattle  by  the  stack  yard,  working  oxen,  steers, 
cows  heavy  with  calf,  and  heifers ;  their  feet 
drawn  up  close  together ;  their  backs  arched ; 
their  hair  erect— shaking  pictures  of  discomfort 
and  misery.  They  were  not  just  let  out  of  the 
barn  for  an  airing;  for  there  was  the  pitchfork 
sticking  in  the  hay,  showing  that  they  had  been 
foddered  there,  and  the  bare  spots  upon  the 
ground,  where  they  had  lain  down,  melting  the 
snow  under  them.  These  were  unmistakable 
signs  that  these  cattle  took  the  air  for  twenty- 
four  hours  in  the  day,  without  respect  to  ther¬ 
mometer  or  weather  guage. 

I  wanted  to  get  out  of  the  cars,  and  take  the 
owner  by  the  throat,  and  say  to  him,  “You 
miserable  Connecticut  sinner,  what  do  you  mean 
by  tormenting  these  dumb  brutes  in  this  way  ? 
Do  you  ever  go  to  church  ?  Do  you  read  your 
Bible,  touching  the  ‘merciful  man  showing 
mercy  to  his  beast  T  Do  you  ever  read  Shake¬ 
speare  to  learn  that  the  ‘quality  of  mercy  is  not 
strained?’  Yours  is  strained  so  tight  that  it 
never  gets  out  of  you,  and  you  torment  these 
poor  creatures  with  the  slow  tortures  of  frost 
and  tempest.” 

Is  it  not  astonishing  that  farmers  will  prac¬ 
tise  this  barbarity,  after  all  that  has  been  said  in 
the  Agriculturist  and  other  papers  against  it  for 
the  last  dozen  years  and  more?  Is  it  not  a 
marvel  that  close-fisted  farmers,  with  a  keen 
scent  for  the  fraction  of  a  copper  in  trade,  will 
waste  hundreds  of  dollars  in  this  wretched  slip¬ 
shod  custom  ?  If  any  thing  is  demonstrated  in 
the  experience  of  our  enterprising  farmers,  it  is 
the  economy  of  stabling  cattle  in  the  winter, 
from  November  to  April.  At  least  one-third  of 
the  fodder  is  saved  by  it,  and  the  cattle  come 
out  in  much  better  condition. 

What  would  be  thought  of  the  wisdom  of  a 
farmer  who  should  build  a  separate  small  barn 
for  every  animal  upon  his  farm,  instead  of  build¬ 
ing  one  large  one  to  accommodate  the  whole  ? 
It  would  be  a  terrible  waste  of  lumber,  and  a 
monument  of  his  folly.  Yet  he  might  better  do 
this  than  to  attempt  to  shelter  and  warm  each 
by  itself  at  the  stack-yard,  by  superabundant 
}jay.  What  would  be  thought  of  the  man  who, 
instead  of  building  his  little  barns  with  lumber, 
should  make  them  of  the  best  hay,  thatched 
from  top  to  bottom?  Yet  this  is  just  what  the 
farmer  is  doing  who  follows  this  barbarous  cus¬ 
tom.  The  thatch  is  applied  inside  of  the  animal 


in  the  shape  of  fodder,  instead  of  outside  in  the 
shape  of  shelter.  The  hay  is  consumed  by  slow 
combustion  to  keep  up  the  animal  heat,  and 
how  much  of  it  goes,  you  may  judge,  who  have 
watched  the  consumption  of  fuel  on  a  zero 
night  to  keep  up  the  heat  of  a  room.  If  the  an¬ 
imal  does  not  have  hay  enough,  the  flesh  and 
fat  gathered  in  summer,  go  to  make  up  the  de¬ 
ficiency,  and  the  creature  pines,  the  ribs  stick 
out,  the  hide  grows  rough  and  bristling.  The 
brute  is  tortured,  and  the  owner’s  purse  depleted. 

Make  an  estimate  of  the  loss  of  this  barbarism. 
If  it  takes  two  tons  of  good  hay  to  winter  a  cow 
in  a  barn,  it  takes  three  to  carry  her  through  at 
the  stack.  With  hay  at  thirty  dollars  a  ton,  here 
is  a  dead  loss  of  thirty  dollars.  With  ten  cows 
the  loss  is  three  hundred  dollars,  to  say  nothing 
of  the  diminished  milk,  butter  and  cheese  next 
summer.  Is  not  hay  applied  at  the  stack-yard  a 
very  expensive  shelter?  Connecticut. 


What  a  Patriotic  Woman  Can  Do. 


The  beautiful  picture,  '■'•Farmer  Folks  in  War 
Time''  published  last  month,  was  no  mere  fancy 
sketch.  Numerous  letters  received  at  the  Ag¬ 
riculturist  office  show  that  the  women  of  Ameri¬ 
ca  are  worthy  descend.ants  of  their  heroic  grand¬ 
mothers,  who  gave  their  husbands,  sons  and 
brothers  to  their  country,  and  themselves  filled 
the  vacant  places  in  the  more  peaceful,  but  not 
less  important,  fields  at  home.  Below  we  give 
extracts  from  a  beautiful  and  touching  letter  by 
such  a  woman.  The  hand  writing  and  general 
style  evince  high  culture  and  refinement,  but 
these  have  only  brightened,  not  impaired  the 
strength  of  character  exhibited : — “  My  husband 
and  self  were  both  teachers  until  house  duties 
called  me  out  of  the  school  room.  Having  a 
great  taste  for  rural  occupations,  W'e  rented  a 
farm  one  mile  from  town,  and  while  my  hus¬ 
band  pursued  his  school  duties,  I  spent  my  time 
in  farming  on  a  very  small  scale.  Thus  happily 
the  time  wore  on,  until  our  country  was  reeling 
in  the  agonies  of  this  dreadful  I’ebellion.  At  the 
beginning  of  the  war,  we  gave  up  our  only  two 
brothers,  who,  thank  God,  have  lived  through 
the  fearful  three  years  of  service,  and  returned 
home  this  fall  from  Atlanta.  As  the  thousands 
of  men  were  called  out,  the  deep  love  of  my 
husband  for  his  family  held  him  back,  but  pat¬ 
riotism  filled  his  manly  breast  to  overflowing ; 
neither  night  nor  day  could  he  rest  until  he  too 
wmnt  forth  in  answer  to  his  country’s  call.  One 
year  ago  last  August  he  was  commissioned  as 
Captain  of  Co.  E,  Fifth  United  States  Colored 
Infantry.  Through  all  the  hardships  of  their 
vigorous  campaign  he  led  his  men  unshrinking¬ 
ly,  as  his  man}"  fellow  officers  testify,  without 
one  murmur.  After  he  entered  the  army  we 
bought  the  farm  which  we  had  rented,  and  he 
left  me  as  the  manager,  unbiased  and  free  to  do 
as  I  thought  best.  I  hired  a  hand,  and  to  the 
best  of  my  ability,  and  by  the  aid  of  the  Agricul¬ 
turist,  I  succeeded  pretty  well,  considering  the 
terrible  agony  of  suspense  that  racked  my  soul 
through  all  those  days  of  terrible  assaults  upon 
the  works  of  Petersburg,  He  kept  me  up  by 
his  words  of  hope,  love  and  cheer,  and  willingly 
I  labored,  until  my  labor  became  a  ple<asure,  to 
lift  the  heavy  payments  at  the  appointed  time, 
and  make  as  many  improvements  as  possible 
before  his  return.  It  was  joy  to  gather  around 
our  new  house  that  which  I  knew  would  please 
him.  In  the  spring  I  paced  the  long  rows  of 
eight  acres,  dropping  all  the  corn,  in  order  that 
it  might  be  in  season.  To  be  sure  there  were 
frequent  showers,  but  I  managed  to  scare  away 


the  clouds  with  the  ‘family  umbrella,’  and  I 
have  a  nice  little  crop  of  corn  of  ue<ar  200  bush 
els.  My  farm  lies  in  the  edge  of  a  large  white 
oak  swamp,  and  needs  drainage  veiy  much, 
which,  as  yet,  I  have  not  been  able  to  give  it  to 
any  great  extent.  Twelve  acres  of  meadow 
were  cut,  and  two  acres  of  oats.  Last  winter  I 
had  my  ground  put  in  excellent  order,  and 
helped  to  plant  out  a  choice  orchard  of  apple, 
pear— dwarf  and  standard— and  cherry  trees,  laid 
out  in  quincunx  style.  A  new  stable  floor  was 
laid ;  timber  for  a  new  W"Ood-house,  20  by  23 
feet,  was  cut,  hauled  and  sawed,  the  house 
erected  and  nearly  finished.  I  raised  I  acre  of 
sorghum,  stripped  and  cut  it  myself,  and  have 
the  pleasure  of  a  nice  barrel  of  molasses. 
Fences  were  reset,  and  when  I  thought  the 
work  was  going  on  too  slowly,  I  donned  my 
bonnet,  and  tried  my  hand  at  helping  to  set 
stakes  and  build  a  new  fence.  I  do  not  wish  to 
boast  of  my  feeble  efforts,  but  these  were  my 
employments  the  last  year,  xvhile  my  soldier 
Captain  was  risking  his  fife  in  his  country’s 
warfare.  While  digging  my  fifty-two  bush¬ 
els  of  potatoes,  and  gathering  my  pump¬ 
kins,  etc.,  etc.,  my  thoughts  were  far,  far  away! 

. On  the  28th  of  July  my  husband  was 

mortally  wounded.  He  lived  nine  hours,  and  then 
gave  np  his  noble  spirit  to  God,  for  the  sake 
of  our  Country,  Union  and  Liberty.  His  body 
was  embalmed  and  sent  home.  Oh !  that  com¬ 
ing  home — my  heart  is  broken,  but  I  have 
three  little  children,  for  whom  I  know  I  must 
labor  yet  a  little  longer.  My  hopes  are  now  all 
in  Heaven ;  but  although  earth  has  grown  dull 
and  lonely,  I  love  my  country  none  the  less,  but 
all  the  more  for  the  sacrifice  of  all  that  made  life 
dear  to  me.  Heavy  debts  are  hanging  over  me, 
but  patient  creditors  are  favoring  me.  In  doing 
for  my  little  family,  I  hope  I  am  serving  my 
country  as  every  patriotic  woman  should  do,  in 
trying  to  raise  food  for  the  ‘  thousands  in  the 
field,’  and  the  thousands  more  to  go.” 

■  'm  0  ^ 

Tim  Bunker’s  Raid  Among  the  Pickle 
Patches. 

Mr.  Editor; — “  What  is  in  the  wind  now  ?” 
asked  Seth  Twiggs,  as  Mrs.  Bunker  and  I  start¬ 
ed  off  down  the  Shadtown  road. 

“  Smoke,”  said  I,  as  Seth  pulled  out  his  stump 
of  a  pipe,  and  blew  a  puff  into  the  air  like  a 
small  locomotive  just  firing  up.  Old  Black 
Hawk  has  n’t  been  used  much  lately,  and  he  went 
off  considerable  gay,  as  we  struck  the  turnpike 
on  Seth  Twiggs’  corner.  Seth  did  not  follow  his 
big-bellied  Dutch  pipe  a  great  while,  but  fell 
back  upon  his  own  tried  and  trusty  clay  stump. 
It  is  mighty  hard  for  old  dogs  to  learn  new 
tricks,  and  Seth  is  one  of  ’em.  My  letter  agin 
tobacco  didn’t  have  any  more  eflect  on  him, 
than  peas  rattling  on  a  tin  pan. 

“  Well,  I  didn’t  mean  that,”  said  Seth, 
“  Where  are  you  gwine  ?  ” 

“  I  am  going  down  to  Shadtown,  to  take  the 
boat,”  said  I. 

“Then  where?”  asked  Seth,  perseveringly. 

“  And  then  to  New  York,  and  up  into  West¬ 
chester  county,  visiting.  And  if  any  of  the 
neighbors  get  into  a  quarrel,  jest  tell’em  they’d 
better  make  up,  for  I  shan’t  be  back  under  a 
week,  and  there  won’t  be  any  court.” 

You  see  the  way  it  came  about  was  this: — 
Sally  got  a  letter  a  few  weeks  ago  from  her 
cousin,  who  married  Noadiah  Tubbs,  thirty 
years  ago,  and  moved  off  to  Westchester. 
Cousin  Esther  and  Sally  used  to  be  about  as 
thick  as  blackbirds  in  the  pie,  before  they  were 


18C5.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


4^ 


married,  but  haven’t  met  often  of  late.  She 
Hadn’t  more  than  read  the  letter,  when  she  said : 

“  Timothy,  it  is  a  dozen  years  since  I  have 
seen  Esther,  and  she  used  to  be  the  best  friend 
I  had  before  I  found  you.  And  if  you  feel  as 
if  you  could  spare  the  time,  I  should  like  to  go 
down  and  see  her  this  winter  ?  " 

“  Agreed,”  says  I.  And  we  got  ready  and 
started  off  the  next  week. 

Noadiah  Tubbs  (they  call  himDiah,  for  short, 
^nd  sometimes,  Uncle  Di,)  lives  on  the  banks 
of  the  Bronx,  about  a  dozen  miles  from  the 
city.  He  is  what  they  call  in  Hookertown  a 
case,  or  hard  customer.  How  in  this  world 
Estlier  came  to  marry  him  I  never  could  see, 
and  I  am  a  little  more  tlian  ever  in  the  dark  about 
it  since  our  visit.  Perhaps  he’s  grown  worse 
since  he  got  married,  or  else  I’ve  grown  better. 
I  ought  to  be  a  good  deal  better  after  living  so 
many  years  with  Sally  Bunker.  At  any  rate, 
Diah  and  I  seemed  to  be  farther  apart  than 
ever.  Why!  the  creature  don’t  go  to  meeting 
more’n  once  a  year,  and  then  it  is  when  he  is 
going  to  be  put  up  for  representative  or  sheriff, 
when  he  thinks,  may  be,  he’ll  get  a  few  votes 
from  church  people,  if  he  goes  to  meeting.  I 
am  sorry  to  say  there  is  rather  a  bad  state  of 
morals  all  round  Diah’s  neighborhood.  Tiie 
Westchester  sinners,  from  what  I  see  of  ’em,  are 
not  a  bit  better  than  Hookertown  sinners. 
The  folks  don’t  seem  to  have  much  idea  of 
Sunday,  except  as  a  day  of  visiting,  hunting, 
and  fishing.  Rum-holes  are  plenty,  and  I  guess 
this  state  of  morals  accounts  partly  for  the  fiict 
that  Diah  Tubbs  has  so  run  down  to  the  heel. 

But  you  need  not  suppose  that  Uncle  Di  is  a 
fool,  because  he  uses  rather  coarse  language, 
and  goes  to  the  tavern  oftener  than  he  ought  to. 
He  is  a  pretty  fair  farmer,  or  would  have  been 
called  so  a  dozen  years  ago.  He  knows  a  heap 
about  raising  cucumbers,  which  tliey  call  pickles 
in  all  this  region.  Whether  they  have  heard 
that  the  world  uses  any  thing  else  besides 
cucumbers  for  pickles,  I  couldn’t  say.  I  used 
to  think,  before  I  took  to  writing  for  the  paper, 
that  I  had  learned  about  all  I  could  on  farming 
matters,  but  I  find,  as  I  go  about,  that  every 
region  has  some  new  kink  in  farming,  some 
special  crop  that  I’ve  never  paid  much  attention 
to.  All  around  Diah’s  they  grow  cucumbers  by 
the  thousand.  Almost  every  farmer  near  a 
railroad  depot  puts  in  an  acre  or  two,  and  gets 
about  as  much  clean  cash  from  the  patch  as  he 
does  from  the  rest  of  the  farm. 

I  see  very  soon  that  Uncle  Di  knew  some 
things  that  I  did  n’t,  and  as  I  w’anted  to  learn  I 
got  him  started  the  first  evening  after  I  got  to 
his  house,  on  his  favorite  topic,  raising  pickles. 
There  was  a  large  dish  of  apples  on  tlie  table 
when  we  began,  but  not  many  of  ’em  left 
when  we  got  through.  Says  I,  “What  do 
your  folks  call  this  the  pickle  crop  for  ?” 

“Wal,”  said  Diah,  “I don’t  zacktly  know, 
but  guess  it’s  ’cause  its  shorter  tlian  cowcum- 
ber.  May  be  it’s  ’cause  they  grow  ’em  more  for 
the  pickle  factories  than  to  eat  up  fresh.” 

“Do  they  have  factories  for  this  business?” 

“  Sartain,  big  five  story  house  over  the  river, 
where  they  make  ’em  up  by  the  million.” 

“And  how  many  pickles  do  you  suppose 
they  raise  in  your  town  ?” 

“Wal,  I  could  not  tell,  but  it  is  an  awful 
sight — enough  to  sour  the  crop  of  all  creation, 
you’d  think,  if  you  should  happen  to  be  here  in 
August,  and  see  ’em  going  down  to  the  depot. 
Most  every  farmer  goes  into  it  more  or  less,  and 
would  raise  a  great  many  more  if  he  could  get 
telp  just  when  he  wanted  it.” 


“Wal,  there  ain’t  much  of  a  knack  about 
that.  I  fix  it  pretty  much  as  I  would  for  corn, 
only  I  take  more  pains  to  make  it  mellow  and 
light.  If  a  green  sward,  it  must  be  harrowed  thor¬ 
oughly,  and  the  lighter  you  leave  it  the  better.” 

“  Is  there  any  particular  advantage  in  having 
the  land  fresh  ?” 

“  I  never  could  see  as  it  made  much  differ¬ 
ence.  Neighbor  Bussing  has  ’em  on  the  same 
land  sometimes  tliree  years  running.  I  ’spect 
more  ’pends  upon  the  dung  than  any  thing  else, 
and  w'here  you  have  pickles,  you  calculate  to 
manure  pretty  higli,  and  a  good  deal  is  left  over 
for  the  second  year.” 

“  What  kind  of  manure  do  jmu  use  ?” 

“  Any  I  happen  to  have  in  the  yard.  It  wants 
to  be  well  rotted,  and  if  ain’t  fine  I  fork  it  over 
until  I  make  it  so.  Coarse  stuff  won’t  answer.” 

“How  much,  and  how  do  you  apply  it?” 

“If  I  have  plenty  of  manure,  and  I  believe  in 
that  article  if  I  don’t  in  any  thing  else,  I  spread 
on  a  good  lot  broadcast,  and  plow  it  in.  I  don’t 
’spose  the  crop  gets  the  whole  the  first  year. 
Then  I  put  a  good  heapin  shovelFull  in  the  hill.” 

“  And  how  far  apart  are  the  hills?” 

“  I  run  the  furrows  prettj'-  deep,  just  four  and 
ahalf  feet  apart  both  ways,  and  make  the  hill  at 
the  crossing.  One  man  drops  the  manure,  and 
another  follows  with  a  hoe,  mixing  it  a  little 
with  the  soil,  and  covering  it  an  inch  or  two.” 

“What  time  do  you  plant?” 

“When  I  raise  for  nothing  but  pickles,  I  plant 
about  the  last  week  in  June.” 

“  Suppose  it  is  a  dry  time.  What  then  ?” 

“I  give  the  manure  a  good  soaking.  It  is 
pretty  important  to  have  the  seed  come  right 
up.  You  see  the  cowcumber  is  of  such  a  nature 
that  if  it  gets  sot,  it  is  of  no  use  to  try  to  start 
’em.  You  must  push  ’em  right  along.” 

“And  what  variety  do  you  plant?” 

“We  ain’t  got  any  pertikelar  name  for  ’em. 
They  ain’t  Clusters,  nor  London  Greens,  nor 
Russians.  I  guess  they  are  a  sort  of  mixture, 
for  every  man  raises  his  own  seed.” 

“  Is  there  any  particular  knack  in  doing  that?’ 

“  Yes  there  is.  More  ’n  half  the  battle  lies  in 
raising  the  seed.  I  tried  some  seed  I  got  in  the 
city  once,  and  didn’t  have  any  luck  at  all.  It 
won’t  do  to  take  the  odds  and  ends  for  seed.  If 
you  want  a  lot  of  pot-bellies  and  nubbins,  plant 
the  seed  of  such,  and  you’ll  get  ’em.  I  general¬ 
ly  take  the  cucumbers  that  grow  on  the  second 
and  third  joint,  and  let  them  ripen  for  seed,  and 
don’t  allow  any  body  else  to  see  to  ’em.  I  put 
’em  where  I  can  find  ’em  in  the  summer.” 

“How  many  do  you  have  in  a  hill  ?” 

“I  plant  from  five  to  ten,  and  thin  out  at  hoe¬ 
ing  time  to  five  or  six.” 

“  How  many  times  do  you  hoe  ?” 

“I  cultivate  and  hoe  but  once,  and  it  is  pretty 
important  that  that  should  be  done  at  just  the 
right  time.  A  day  too  late  makes  a  great  deal 
of  extra  work.  I  run  a  plow  about  three  times 
between  the  rows  just  before  the  vines  fall  over 
and  begin  to  run,  then  dress  out  with  a  hoe.” 

But  I  see  that  I  can’  tell  you  all  that  Uncle 
Diah  said  in  this  letter,  and  if  your  readers’ 
teeth  are  not  all  set  on  edge,  next  month  I’ll 
give  ’em  some  more  pickles. 

Hookertown,  Conn.,  i  Yours  to  command, 

Jan.  ith,  1865.  j  Timothy  Bunker  Esq. 


An  In-door  Smoke  House. — Whoever  wants 
a  cheap  and  convenient  smoke-house,  let  him 
make  it  while  building  his  kitchen  chimney. 
After  carrying  the  chimney  up  to  the  chamber 
floor,  or  the  garret  if  preferred,  build  a  tight 
closet  of  brick,  well  plastered,  adjoining  the 

chimney  and  connected  with  it  by  openings  at 

v>  ■  .  c  -  .  . 


the  bottom  and  top.  If  the  hight  of  the  kitchen 
is  high  enough  to  cool  off  the  smoke  from  the 
fire  below  before  it  reaches  the  closet  (for  you 
don’t  wish  to  fry  the  hams  just  yet,)  the  smoke 
may  be  diverted  into  the  closet  from  the  flue 
just  above  the  ceiling,  and  then  let  off  into  .the 
chimney  again  through  an  opening  at  the  top. 
Otherwise  a  small  fire  must  be  made  in  the 
closet.  Of  the  material  for  making  the  smoke, 
we  prefer  corn-cobs,  or  maple,  or  hickory  saw¬ 
dust.  Such  a  smoke  chamber  w'ill  not  only  be 
handy  in  all  weathers,  and  safe  from  thieves, 
but  furnish  an  excellent  place  for  keeping 
hams  and  dried  beef  in  summer.  An  occasion¬ 
al  smoke  can  be  made,  or  a  rubbing  over  with 
fine  pepper  may  be  given  to  keep  away  vermin. 


One  Acre  Enough— Sometimes. 

An  “Ex-Market  Gardener”  gives  to  the  Amer¬ 
ican  Agriculturist  tlie  following  illustrations  of 
what  can  be  done  on  a  small  piece  of  land, 
by  hard  work  and  high  manuring.  The  story 
looks  large,  but  we  do  not  doubt  its  truth; 

“  On  a  fertile  acre,  within  sight  of  Trinity 
Church  steeple.  New  York,  but  in  the  ‘be¬ 
nighted  land  of  Jersey,’  lives  a  man  whom, 
not  to  offend  his  modesty,  I  will  call  ‘John 
Smith.’  John’s  neat  cottage  and  acre  cost  him, 
some  eight  years  ago,  $3,000 — now  worth  $6,000, 

“In  the  spring  of  1864,  he  planted  on  his 
acre  12,000  Early  Wakefield  cabbage  plants, 
which,  by  the  first  week  in  July,  were  sold  in 
the  New  York  markets,  at  $8  per  100,  for  $960 
Between  the  rows  of  cabbage  were  planted,  at 
the  same  time,  18,000  Silesia  lettuce  plants, 
which,  at  $1.50  per  100,  brought  $270.  Both 
crops  were  cleared  off  by  12th  July,  the  ground 
again  thoroughly  plowed  and  harrowed,  and 
planted  with  40,000  celery  plants,  which  w’ere 
sold  before  Christmas  of  same  year,  at  $3  per 
100,  for  $1,200,  making  the  total  receipts  $2,430. 

His  expenses  were :  “  Manure  $150 ;  keep  of 
horse,  $300;  interest  on  $6,000,  $420;  hired 
labor,  $400;  incidental  outlay,  $100;  amount¬ 
ing  in  all  to  $1,370,  which  deducted  from  the 
receipts  gave  him  the  net  profit  of  $1,060. 

“John  is  only  a  common-place  man.  Some 
might  call  him  a  clod-hopper.  He  has  no  par¬ 
ticular  skill,  no  great  share  of  “  brains  ” — his 
only  prominent  quality  is  untiring  industry; 
but  it  would  be  difficult  for  any  one,  no  matter 
how  endowed  with  skill  or  brains,  to  make 
more  of  an  acre  than  he  has  done. 

“Another  more  ambitious  friend,  who  thinks 
ten  acres  no  more  than  enough,  has,  with 
nearly  the  same  crop,  laid  himself  liable  to  pay 
Uncle  Sam’s  5  per  cent,  from  his  income  on  his 
‘truck  patch,’  his  profits  having  been  this 
season,  on  ten  acres  of  land,  $5,700,  over  and 
above  household  expenses.  Both  of  the  above 
are  exceptional  cases,  their  grounds  being  in  the 
very  highest  state  of  cultivation.  But  it  is  a 
fact  beyond  all  question,  that  in  what  is  known 
as  the  ‘  Communipaw  district’  the  net  profits  per 
acre,  for  the  past  three  years,  have  averaged  $500. 

“  No  greater  mistake  can  be  made,  either  by 
farmer  or  gardener,  than  spreading  himself 
over  a  large  surface.  The  market  gardeners  of 
New  Jersey,  in  the  vicinity  of  New  York,  cul¬ 
tivate  from  one  to  fifteen  acres  each.  The  most 
successful  are  those  who  have  been  content 
with  six  or  eight  acres.  I  believe  their  success 
will  bear  fixvorable  comparison  with  that  of 
the  Long  Islanders,  whose  farm-gardens  contain 
from  ten  to  one  hundred  acres  each.  As  a 
class,  they  are  hard-working  and  frugal,  and 
all  who  have  weathered  the  storm  during  the 
past  dozen  years  are  now  independent.’^ 


AMKl’.TCA N'  AG-RICUI^TURIST 


[Februaet, 


48 


Thus  far  the  winter  has  been  remarkal)le  for 
the  long  continuance  of  sleighing.  No  un- 
Hsunlly  heavy  snow  storms  have  occurred,  but 
tlie  falls  have  been  so  timed  that  the  winter 
roads  have  mostly  remained  in  admirable  order. 
Family  rides  and  pleasure  parties  have  made 
the  otherwise  dreary  hours  bright  with  enjo}^- 
ment;  it  lias  been  spring  time  in  the  social 
world,  if  not  in  the  almanac.  No  field  repays 
cultivation  better  than  the  home  circle.  It  can 
scarcely  be  too  often  urged  that  the  children 
should  e.xpect  and  find  greater  enjoyment  in 
the  company  of  their  parents  and  each  other, 
than  among  strangers.  The  winter  season  is 
especially  the  time  to  strengthen  home  attach¬ 
ments,  because  so  many  attractions  abroad  are 
offered,  and  the  comparative  leisure  gives  better 
opportunity  for  recreation.  Books,  papers,  and 
games  within  doors,  rides  in  the  family  sleigh, 
and  other  out-door  pleasures,  may  and  should 
leave  memories  so  bright  that,  in  after  years, 
the  hearts  of  the  children  will  ever  turn  with 
strong  yearnings  to  the  old  homestead.  The 
commandment,  “  Honor  thy  father  and  mother,” 
will  be  rendered  easy  of  performance,  if  parents 
do  not  neglect  this  essential  part  of  duty. 


CoAi.  Ashes. — Let  any  one  doubting  the 
value  of  hard  coal  ashes  for  manure,  try  them 
for  walks.  Dig  out  the  soil  Ihree  or  four  inches 
deep,  throw  into  the  bottom  any  coal  cinders, 
oyster  shells,  small  stones,  or  other  rubbish,  for 


a  foundation;  then  put  on  tlie  ashes.  Roll 
them,  and  the  walk  will  be  smooth,  hard,  and 
dry.  If  this  does  not  quite  satisfy  one’s  taste, 
let  him  just  put  an  inch  or  two  of  fine  gravel 
over  the  ashes;  tlien  roll  smooth  and  solid. 
No  wind  will  spoil  such  a  walk,  nor  will  it  be 
muddy.  It  is  the  cheapest  of  good  walks. 


A  Live  Farmers’  Club— Sorghum  in  Mass. 

The  Springfield  Republican  publishes  some 
of  the  doings  of  the  wide-awake  Farmers’  Club, 
of  Wapping,  in  Deerfield,  Mass.  Weekly 
meetings  are  held  at  a  school-house,  which  are 
regularly  attended  during  winter  and  spring, 
by  both  se.xes.  At  a  recent  meeting,  “  Sorghum 
Culture”  was  under  consideration.  Last  year 
sorghum  seed  was  received  by  the  club  from 
the  Department  at  Washington,  and  Mr.  Hiram 
Root  offered  to  be  at  the  e.xpeuse  of  machinery 
for  producing  syrup,  if  some  dozen  others 
would  each  raise  small  plots,  and  give  him  half 
the  product  for  manufacturing.  The  plan  was 
agreed  to,  and  the  machinery,  consisting  of  mill 
and  evaporator,  were  procured  from  Mansfield, 
Ohio.  Five  or  si.x  acres  of  the  cane  were  raised. 
Tl>e  results  of  the  different  plots  were  various, 
but  the  whole  was  sufiiciently  remunerative  to 
encourage  future  trials.  Mr.  Root  produced 
154  gallons  of  thick,  heavy  syrup,  from  three- 
fourths  of  an  acre.  This  account  indicates  the 
value  of  farmers’  clubs,  and  also  shows  the  ad¬ 


vance  being  made  in  Sorghum  culture.  Many 
similar  successful  experiments  were  made  in 
iierv  localities  last  summer,  and  the  day  seems 
not  far  distant  when  the  whole  land  will  be 
sweetened  with  this  northern  home-grown  sjwup. 


How  a  Pioneer  Established  an  Orchard. 


Mr.  1.  W.  Rollins  removed  from  New  Eng¬ 
land  to  Minnesota,  in  1855.  At  that  time  the 
locality  where  he  settled  was  entirely  new, 
there  being  no  land  under  cultivation  in  his 
neighborliood.  He  did  not  wait  until  he  could 
afford  to  invest  in  fruit  trees  before  he  provided 
for  an  orchard,  but  sowed  apple  seeds  the  first 
spring.  In  three  3"ears  he  had  trees  ready  to 
plant  in  the  orchard,  and  in  four  j^ears  more 
gathered  his  first  fruit.  He  has  noiv  a  healthy, 
thrift}’-  orchard  of  300  trees  just  coming  into 
bearing.  Many  persons  after  they  establish  a 
new  farm  wait  more  than  nine  j’-ears  before  they 
are  ready  to  plant  an  orchard  of  young  trees,  and 
then  several  years  more  for  it  to  yield  returns. 
A  little  providence  at  the  beginning  in  starting 
the  seedlings,  a  little  skill  in  budding  or  graft¬ 
ing,  and  care  in  setting  and  protecting  the3’-oung 
trees,  are  all  that  is  needed  to  soon  give  the  poor¬ 
est  settler  in  new  countries  a  vahiable  orchard. 


The  too  frequent  use  of  authority  impairs  it 
If  thunder  were  continuous  it  would  excite  no 
more  sensation  than  the  noise  of  a  grist-milL 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICUETURIST. 


4:9 


Fig.  1.- 


-BUTTERFLY  FLOWER. 


Some  Curious  Vegetable  Forms. 


All  plants  are  engaged  in  performing  the  same 
general  work — that  of  converting  tlie  crude  ele¬ 
ments  of  the  earth  and  air  into  organized  pro¬ 
ducts  fit  for  the  food  of  animals.  This  might 
have  been  done  equally  well  had  the  plants 
been  made  all  of  the  same  form,  instead  of  with 
that  great  variety  which  now  surrounds  ns. 
The  study  of  plants  shows  us  the  wonderfully 
varied  means  employed  to  attain  the  same  end. 
Though  all  the  parts  of  plants  show  great  diver¬ 
sity  in  form,  this  is  most 
strikingly  seen  in  the  flower, 
in  which  every  conceivable 
modification  of  shape  as  well 
as  of  color,  is  wrought. 

Among  the  most  interesting 
flowers  are  those  which  re¬ 
semble  more  or  less  closely 
some  kinds  of  animals.  The 
Calceolarias,  looking  very  like  large  fat  spiders, 
and  the  common  Canary-bird  flower  {Tropaxlum 
veregrinum),  which  by  the  aid  of  a  little  imagi¬ 
nation  looks  like  a  bird,  are 
among  the  more  common  of 
these  curious  forms.  To  see 
the  most  striking  ones  we  must 
go  to  the  rare  collections  of  the 
hot-houses,  where  among  the 
members  of  the  Orchis  Family 
g  will  be  found  flowers  of  strange 
■  shapes  and  brilliant  colors. 
The  Dove-flower  of  Central  America,  which  has 
■what  appears  like  a  beautiful  little  white  dove 
nestling  within  it,  was  figured  in  these  columns 


Fig.  3. 


a  few  years  ago,  and 
we  now  give  a  draw¬ 
ing  of  the  equally  re¬ 
markable  Butterfly- 
flower,  Oncidium  pa- 
pilio.  This  plant  is  a 
nat'lve  of  Trinidad, 
and  like  many  others 
of  the  same  family  it 
is  an  Epiphyte^  i.e.,  it 
grows  upon  other 
plants,  to  which  it  at¬ 
taches  itself  by  closely 
clinging  roots,  and 
draAvs  its  nourish¬ 
ment  from  the  air. 
The  engraving  shows 
a  cluster  of  the  bulbs 
of  the  plant  upon  a 
piece  of  a  limb,  one  of 
them  bearing  leaves. 
On  account  of  the 
great  length  of  its 
stem,  the  flower  can 
not  be  shown  in  its 
proper  position,  but 
is  cut  off  and  shown 
lower.  The  whole  is 
drawn  about  half  the 
natural  size.  There  are 
some  insects  Avhich 
very  closely  resemble 
leaves,  and  it  Avould 
seem  that  to  balance 
the  account.  Nature 
had  made  this  flower 
as  much  like  an  in¬ 
sect  as  possible.  It 
resembles  a  butterfly 
not  only  in  shape,  but 
in  its  brilliant  colors, 
and  the  illusion  is  the  greater  from  its  being 
perched  upon  a  very  slender  stem,  so  that  when 
moved  by  the  wind,  it  has  the  ap¬ 
pearance  of  a  butterfly  hovering 
in  the  air.  This  plant  thrives  only 
in  a  warm  and  moist  atmosphere, 
and  can  not  be  grown  e.xcept  in  a 
hot-house.  It  is  not  flowers  alone 
that  simulate  animal  forms,  but 
fruits  sometimes  put  on  grotesque 
shapes.  The  Snake  cucumber  {Tri- 
cliosantlies  coluhrina),  with  fruit  sev¬ 
eral  feet  iu  length,  and  shaped  like 
a  serpent,  is  frequently  groAvn  in 
green-houses.  A  nut  from  Dema- 
rara,  called  the  Snake-nut,  has  a 
most  curiously  twisted  kernel, 
which  -when  removed  I'rom  the 
shell,  looks  very  much  like  a  small 
serpent.  Figures  2  and  3  give  two 
views  of  this  kernel,  and  show  its 
snake-like  form.  The  tree  which 
produces  it  is  related  to  the  Horse- 
chestnut,  and  bears  the  rather  form¬ 
idable  but  descriptive  botanical 
name  of  OpMocaryon  paradoxum, 

- o - 

The  Difference  between  a 
Fruit  and  a  Vegetable. — A  Lady 
asks  us  how  she  shall  reply  to  the 
question  :  “  What  is  the  difference 
between  a  fruit  and  a  vegetable  ?” 

This  is  a  rather  difficult  question  to 
answer  with  precision.  In  one 
sense,  all  fruits  are  vegetables,  and  all  the 
vegetables  used  as  food  by  men  and  animals 


are  fruits.  Horticulturall}’’,  those  products  in¬ 
tended  for  the  table  which  first  go  through  a 
preparatory  operation  in  the  kitchen,  are  called 
vegetables,  although  many  of  them,  such  as  to¬ 
matoes,  squashes,  etc.,  may  really  be  fruits, 
while  melons,  grapes,  etc.,  eaten  without  prepa¬ 
ration  are  fruits.  Some,  like  the  tomato,  may 
be  eaten  either  as  a  fruit  or  as  a  vegetable.  Bo- 
tanically  theivord  fruit  means  the  ripened  ovary 
and  its  contents,  together  with  whatever  may 
be  connected  with  it,  as  receptacle,  cal3^x,  etc. 

- - - .-€« - 

The  Trumpet  Honeysuckle. 

{Lonicera  sempervirens.) 


Among  the  woody  climbers,  the  different  spe¬ 
cies  of  Lonicera  or  Honeysuckle  occupy  a  prom¬ 
inent  place.  The  Woodbine,  so  woven  into 
English  poetrA:,  is  a  Avell  knoAvn  species  valued 
for  its  fragrance;  and  there  are  several  others, 
the  floAvers  of  Avhich  are  both  beautiful  and 
highlj^  perfumed.  As  a  covering  for  trellises. 
Avails  and  flat  screens,  the  honeysuckle  does  not 
ansAver  as  good  a  purpose  as  several  other  vines. 
Its  nature  is  to  Avind  or  twine  about  some  sup¬ 
port  like  a  pole,  pillar,  or  trunk  of  a  tree.  As 
an  ornament  for  pillars  or  poles,  no  vine  is  moi-e 
suitable.  Tlie  posts  of  a  A'eranda  or  summer¬ 
house  can  be  speedily  covered  by  them.  Sup¬ 
ports  of  an  ornamental  sort  arc  often  made 
of  cedar  or  pine,  the  shaft  being  about  ten  feet 
high,  three  inches  in  diameter  at  the  base  and 
tapering  to  tAVO  at  the  top.  Short,  transvere 
rods  are  run  through  them  at  about  eighteen 
inches  apart,  and  the  honeysuckle  alloAved  to 
tAvine  about  them.  If  one  has  a  heap  of  bould¬ 


TRUMPET  HONEYSUCKLE. 


ers,  or  a  rocky  ledge  in  his  grounds,  fnat  ne 
wishes  to  hide  or  embellish,  let  him  set  a  scarlet 


60 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Febkuabt. 


or  yellow  Trumpet  Honeysuckle  at  the  base, 
and  they  will  trail  over  the  rocks  very  soon. 
The  honeysuckle  may  be  trained  and  kept  as  a 
standard  five  or  six  feet  high,  by  simply  cutting 
oflT  the  leading  shoot  every  year.  It  will  then 
throw  out  laterals  which  will  be  covered  with 
flowers  all  summer.  Set  a  stout  post  of  cedar 
or  other  imperishable  wood  in  the  center,  to 
which  the  main  stem  is  to  be  tied,  and  then  the 
branches  will  hang  down  and  trail  upon  the  lawn 
in  a  beautiful  manner.  The  species  figured 
above,  though  not  fragrant,  is  very  showy,  and 
has  the  merit  of  being  a  native.  It  has  fine  dark 
green  leaves,  the  upper  pairs  being  united  at  the 
base  so  as  to  surround  the  stem.  The  flowers 
are  tubular,  about  two  inches  long,  of  a  fine 
scarlet  outside,  yellow  within  and  very  brilliant. 
The  engraving  shows  a  portion  of  the  plant  of 
the  natural  size.  Though  the  specific  name, 
sempervirens,  would  indicate  that  it  was  an  ever¬ 
green,  it  is  not  so  at  the  North,  but  it  retains  its 
leaves  during  the  mild  winters  of  the  Southern 
States.  The  neighborhood  of  New  York  City 
is  believed  to  be  the  northern  limit  at  which  the 
plant  is  found  growing  wild,  but  it  is  abundant 
farther  South.  Several  varieties  differing  in  the 
size  of  the  leaves  and  size  and  color  of  the  flow¬ 
ers  have  been  obtained  from  seed.  It  may  be 
readily  multiplied  both  by  layers  and  cuttings. 
- - - — «♦  «— - - - 

Laying  Out  the  Front  Yard. 


Fig.  1. 

The  spa-ce  between  the  gate  and  the  dwelling, 
which  in  large  estates  is  termed  the  approach, 
is  in  those  of  moderate  pretensions  popularly 
termed  “the  front  yard.”  There  is  to  most  homes, 
except  in  densely  built  cities,  a  greater  or  less  ex¬ 
tent  of  ground  immediately  in  front  of  the  house 
which  is  not  devoted  to  crops,  but  which  is  usu¬ 
ally  more  or  less  embellished  by  the  occupant — 
though  it  is  sometimes  left  in  a  deplorable  state 
of  neglect.  Those  who  allow  the  grounds  near 
the  house  to  become  a  hospital  for  dilapidated 
vehicles  and  tools,  and  a  ranging  place  for  pigs 
and  poultry,  need  first  to  practise  a  lesson  in  ti¬ 
diness  and  order ;  but  there  are  many  persons 
desiring  to  arrange  the  approach  to  the  dwel¬ 
ling  in  a  neat  and  tasteful  way,  who  apply  to  us 
to  furnish  plans  which  shall  aid  them.  In  sev¬ 
eral  instances  readers  have  sent  us  maps  of  their 
places  as  they  now  are,  with  a  request  that  we 
furnish  them  with  designs  for  their  improve¬ 
ment.  For  obvious  reasons  we  can  not  give 
these  applications  separate  answers.  Those 
who  are  laying  out  new  places,  or  wish  to  make 
extended  improvements  in  old  ones,  should  either 
engage  the  services  of  a  landscape  gardener,  or 
carefully  study  the  works  of  Downing,  Kemp, 
Smith,  or  other  writers  of  acknowledged  au¬ 
thority.  Each  situation  presents  its  own  pecu¬ 
liar  features,  and  the  plan,  especially  if  the  place 
is  a  large  one,  must  be  made  with  regard  to  the 
nature  of  the  surface,  the  views  to  be  secured 
or  shut  out,  the  trees,  rocks  and  other  natural 
objects  to  be  preserved,  and  other  conditions 


which  a  person  of  taste  will  observe,  and  to 
which  he  will  adapt  his  plans.  There  are  some 
suggestions  however,  which  apply  equally  well 
to  large  and  to  small  places,  and  which  should  be 


Fig.  2. 


observed  in  plans  involving  the  expenditure  of 
large  sums,  as  well  as  in  the  more  economical 
ones.  Simplicity,  ease  and  convenience,  are  to 
be  sought,  while  stiffness,  formality  and  intrica¬ 
cy  are  to  be  avoided.  The  prime  essentials  in  a 
front  yard,  approach,  park,  or  whatever  name 
w’c  choose  to  give  it,  are,  a  fine  turf  and  roads  or 
paths.  A  lawn  well  made,  and  densely  turfed  is 
an  object  of  beauty  in  itself,  and  serves  as  the 
setting  for  trees,  clumps  of  shrubs,  and  flower¬ 
beds,  all  of  which  have  their  beauty  enhanced 
by  it.  The  roads  or 
paths  must  be  per¬ 
manent  in  character, 

W'ell  made,  well  drain¬ 
ed,  and  with  their 
edges  well  defined. 

These  two  things  be¬ 
ing  secured,  the  minor 
details  are  easily  ar¬ 
ranged.  A  few  plans 
are  given  as  sugges¬ 
tions  to  those  persons 
who  wish  something 
to  start  from — it  often 
being  easier  to  modify 
a  plan  than  to  orig¬ 
inate  one.  The  most 
difficult  cases  to  man¬ 
age  are  wiiere  the 
house  is  built  so  near  the  road  that  but 
very  little  space  is  given  in  w'hich  to  work. 
In  these  the  path  runs  directly  from  the  gate 
to  the  front  door,  wiiich  gives  a  stiff  and  formal 
appearance  to  the  place,  as  the  path  divides 
what  little  ground  there  is  into  tw'O  equal  blocks. 


Fig.  4. 


Fig.  1,  shows  how  this  formality  may  be 
broken  up  by  placing  the  gate  at  one  side,  instead 
of  directly  opposite  the  entrance  of  the  house, 
and  allowing  the  path  between  the  two  to  take 
an  easy  curve.  This  will  give  an  appearance  of 
greater  extent,  and  it  leaves  the  grass  with  a 
pleasing  outline.  A  path  at  the  left  hand  runs 


to  the  rear  of  the  house.  Where  the  yard  is 
very  narrow,  it  is  sometimes  laid  out  as  in  fig. 
2,  which  requires  two  entrance  gates.  The  walk 
curves  to  the  front  door,  and  paths  reaching  the 
grounds  at  the  rear  may  be  made  as  in  the 
drawing.  This  plan  is  rather  formal,  but  it  has 
the  advantage  that  it  saves  a  considerable  un¬ 
broken  extent  of  lawn  in  front  of  the  house, 
and  there  are  cases  in  which  it  will  be  found  to 
be  the  best  that  can  be  adopted.  The  long  and 
narrow  lots,  common  in  villages,  are  quite  diffi¬ 
cult  to  arrange  in  good  taste  on  account  of 
their  awkward  shape.  In  these  the  house  is 
usually  near  the  front  of  the  lot,  with  kitchen 
and  fruit  gardens  and  stable,  to  wdiich  it  is  neces¬ 
sary  to  have  a  carriage  road  in  the  rear.  One 
method  of  treating  these  badly  shaped  places  is 
given  in  fig.  3,  which  show’s  the  front  portion  of 
such  a  lot.  A  road,  B,  is  run  at  one  side  the 
whole  length  of  the  lot,  or  as  far  to  the  rear  as 
is  necessary,  leaving  a  border  about  6  feet  wide 
between  it  and  the  bonndary.  The  front  por¬ 
tion  of  this  border  may  be  occupied  by  orna¬ 
mental  shrubbery,  while  at  the  rear  of  the 
house  it  will  answer  for  vines  or  dwarf  fruit 
trees.  From  near  the  gate  a  pathw’ay  sweeps 
toward  the  house,  if  the  place  is  small,  or  if  the 
size  will  admit  of  it,  this  may  be  widened  to  a 
carriage  drive.  At  B,  is  a  grass  plot  at  the 
rear  of  the  house  for  drying  clothes,  which  is 
shut  off  by  a  screen  or  hedge  from  the  fruit  and 
kitchen  gardens,  parts  of  which  are  shown  at 
E,  E.  A  place  of  considerably  greater  extent 
is  given  in  fig.  4,  W’here  the  carriage  drive,  B, 
turns  around  an  oval,  E,  and  reaehes  the  stables 
in  the  direction  of  C.  This  plan  is  at  once 
simple  and  convenient,  and  is  capable  of  being 
adapted  to  large  or  small  places.  In  this,  as  in 
the  other  plans,  the  trees  npon  the  lawn  are  put 
in  at  the  fancy  of  the  engraver  rather  than  aa 
indications  where  we  W’ould  plant  them.  We 
have  not  shown  any  flower-beds  cut  into  the 
lawn,  except  in  fig.  2.  A  few  masses  of  flowers 
may  be  introTluced  with  good  effect,  but  w’hert 
there  is  sufficient  land  the  general  flower  gar¬ 
den  should  not  be  at  the  front  of  the  house. 

• - »  I  iiW—  - - - 

The  Sheldon  Pear— Historical. 


In  the  description  of  the  Sheldon  pear,  in  the 
Agriculturist  for  November  last,  w’e  gave  the  Io¬ 
cs, lity  of  its  origin  as  cited  by  Downing.  Since 
then  we  have  had  several  letters  from  different 
parts  of  the  country,  each  claiming  to  give  a 
correct  account  of  the  history  and  origin  of  thix 
pear.  As  these  letters  tell  very  different  stories, 
they  are  quite  amusing  as  illustrations  of  the 
difficulty  in  coming  at  the  actual  facts  in  so 
simple  a  matter  as  the  history  of  a  fruit  which 
originated  within  the  recollection  of  persons 
now  living.  Mr.  P.  B.  Sheldon,  Steuben  Co., 
N.  Y.,  writes  a  very  full  account  of  the  pear, 
and  as  he  is  the  son  of  one  of  the  brothers 
whose  name  is  borne  by  the  fruit,  we  select  his 
narration  as  most  likely  to  be  the  correct  one. 
According  to^Mr.  S.,  the  seeds  whieh  produced 
the  Sheldon  pear  were  brought  from  Connecti¬ 
cut  about  50  years  ago,  and  were  planted  on  two 
separate  but  adjoining  farms  in  Huron,  Wayne 
Co.,  N.  Y.,  by  the  brothers  Wareham  and  Ral- 
seyman  Sheldon.  The  singular  part  of  the  ac¬ 
count  is,  that  from  tliis  seed,  four  trees  (one 
upon  one  farm,  and  three  upon  the  other,)  oi 
the  variety  now  called  Sheldon,  were  produced. 
It  seems  very  strange  that  four  trees  should  be 
produced,  the  fruit  of  which  was  identical  in 
character,  and  it  would  be  interesting  to  know 
if  the  trees  which  have  since  been  propagated  are 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


61 


from  a  single  one  of  these  trees,  or  from  all 
four  indiscriminately.  We  have  heard  only  one 
unfavorable  account  of  this  variety,  and  this 
from  an  experienced  cultivator  in  Conn.  It 
may  be  that  the  progeny  of  the  different  origi¬ 
nal  trees  does  not  prove  equally  good,  and  that 
the  above  exception  the  general  verdict  is 
due  to  the  fact  that  cions  have  been  dissemi¬ 
nated  from  more  than  one  of  the  four  seedlings. 
As  Mr.  S.,  in  his  letter,  speaks  at  one  time  of  the 
“  original  tree,”  and  at  another  of  “  original 
trees,”  we  are  left  in  doubt  on  this  point.  He 
states  that  he  has  had  pears  from  the  original 
tree  that  weighed  18  ounces ;  that  the  tree  is  not 
subject  to  blight,  but  that  in  some  localities  the 
fruit  is,  at  intervals  of  several  years,  of  an  insip¬ 
id  quality,  and  that  this  happens  with  the  origi¬ 
nal  trees.  It  is  singular  that  a  fruit  possessing 
the  marked  high  character  of  the  Sheldon  should 
have  been  before  the  public  for  more  than  a 
quarter  of  a  century  and  been  so  little  dissemi¬ 
nated,  while  during  this  period  many  foreign 
sorts  have  been  generally  distributed  and  culti¬ 
vated,  and  many  of  them  abandoned.  This 
slow  progress  in  popularity  is  attributed  by  Mr. 
Sheldon  to  the  fact  that  it  has  had  no  person 
especially  interested  in  its  sale  to  puff  it,  but 
has  depended  entirely  upon  its  own  merits. 


Some  Weeding  Implements, 


Fig.  1— WHEEL  HOE. 


A  large  share  of  all  the  labor  in  the  garden  is 
devoted  to  the  destruction  of  weeds,  and  any¬ 
thing  that  facilitates  this  work,  is  of  great  im¬ 
portance  to  every  one  who  has  a  garden.  The 
ordinary  hoe  has  been  more  or  less  superseded 
by  weeding  contrivances  in  great  number,  and 
we  give  a  few  of  the  simplest,  such  as  can 
be  made  during  the  winter’s  leisure,  with  the  aid 
of  the  blacksmith.  Mr.  Wm.  R.  Tatem,  Phila, 
Co.,  Pa.,  sends  a  drawing  of  a  Wheel-hoe  which 
he  finds  very  effective  in  working  between  rows 
of  onions,  and  other  crops  sown  in  drills,  as  well 
as  in  cleaning  paths.  It  consists  of  a  V-shaped 
blade  attached  to  a  handle  with  a  wheel  at  one 
end.  The  handle,  the  whole  of  which  is  not 
shown  in  the  engraving,  is  of  Ij  inch  stuff,  4 
feet  9  inches  long,  2  inches  wide  at  the  lower, 
and  li  inch  at  the  upper  end.  A  cross  handle, 
15  inches  long,  is  attached  at  the  upper  end,  to 
allow  the  hoe  to  be  worked  with  both  hands. 
The  wheel  is  of  cast  iron,  10  inches  diameter. 


Fig.  2— MISSIONARY  HOE. 


with  a  rim  IJ  inch  in  width.  It  is  attached  to 
the  handle  by  means  of  a  curved  shank,  having 
two  arms  between  which  the  wheel  revolves. 
The  axle  is  fixed  in  the  shank,  and  the  wheel 
turns  upon  it.  The  upright  of  the  blade  is  of 
i  inch  iron,  I4  inch  wide,  and  12  inches  long ; 
this  is  attached  to  the  handle  at  6  inches  from 
its  lower  end.  It  is  found  convenient  to  have 
some  contrivance  to  alter  the  hight  of  the  hoe 

1.;.  ,  ers  o,;.,  V 


in  order  to  adapt  it  to  the  use  of  a  boy  or  man, 
as  may  be  required.  It  is  used  by  means  of  a 
backward  and  forward  motion  of  the  arms. 

Fig.  2,  the  Missionary-hoe  is  an  implement  on 
a  similar  principle,  though  differing  in  construc¬ 
tion.  A  straight  and  narrow  blade,  about  8 
inches  long,  is  attached  to  a  frame  just  behind 
a  wooden  roller,  which  serves  as  a  wheel  to  reg¬ 
ulate  the  depth  to  which  the  blade  shall  enter 
the  soil.  We  have  used  this  implement  with 
satisfaction,  and  found  it  the  safest  thing  to  put 


in  the  hands  of  an  unskilled  laborer.  It  is  said 
to  have  been  invented  by  a  missiouaiy  to  some 
of  our  western  Indians,  and  in  clean,  mellow  soil 
it  does  good  and  rapid  work. — Fig.  3,  the  Scufile- 
hoe,  also  called  Dutch-hoe,  and  Push-hoe,  is  a 
very  convenient  implement  for  destroying  weeds. 
A  Boston  correspondent,  is  so  much  pleased 
with  it  that  he  is  desirous  that  all  our  readers 
should  become  acquainted  with  it.  We  give  a 
cut  of  one  form  of  the  Scuffle-hoe,  and  let  our 
correspondent  speak  its  praises  as  follov/s ; 

“  Since  I  commenced  its  use  I  have  kept  my 
garden  free  from  weeds  w’ith  so  much  less  lalior, 
that  it  seems  to  make  all  the  difference  between 
weeds  and  no  weeds.  It  should  not  Interfere 
with  the  use  of  the  hoe  in  loosening  the  ground 
around  hills  of  corn,  melons,  etc.,  but  for  clean¬ 
ing  off  weeds  and  breaking  the  crust  after  a  rain, 
for  running  between  i-ows  of  strawberry  plants, 
of  beets,  onions,  and  other  root  crops,  etc.,  it 
saves  much  hoeing  and  hand-pulling  of  weeds. 
A  hoe  must  be  pressed  into  the  ground  with 
considerable  exertion,  which  is  quite  fatiguing 
to  most  of  the  thousands  to  whom  the  posses¬ 
sion  and  care  of  a  kitchen  garden  should  be 
a  luxury  and  a  recreation ;  but  the  Scuffler  slides 
just  under  the  surface,  pushing  out  the  young 
weeds,  while  it  allows  the  body  to  be  maintained 
erect  and  requires  but  little  effort.  It  is  particu¬ 
larly  useful  for  scuffling  close  to  a  fence  about  the 
posts,  under  currant,  and  especially  about  black¬ 
berry,  raspberry,  or  bushes  of  a  briery  nature. 
To  get  the  best  advantages  from  it,  one  needs 
to  be  careful  about  the  pattern,  as  there  are 
many  forms  in  the  tool  stores.  I  think  the 
blade  should  be  just  5J^  inches,  that  is  the  hap¬ 
py  medium  between  too  wide  and  too  narrow ; 
the  handle  should  be  long,  say  six  feet,  and  the 
blade  must  be  set  upon  it  witn  such  a  slant  as 
will  enable  a  cut  to  be  made  s.ther  way,  and  the 
tool  to  be  used  without  leaning  over,  that  is,  so 
that  the  blade  may  be  flat  on  the  ground  when 
the  end  of  the  handle  is  at  the  hight  of  the 
shoulder.  If  the  ground  has  been  adowed  to  get 
packed  hard,  or  the  weeds  become  large,  the 
Scuflier  won’t  answer,  and  one  needs  to  brighten 
his  hoe,  or  turn  all  the  soil  over  with  a  spade.” 

In  July  last  we  figured  and  described  the 
Bayonet-hoe,  and  since  then  several  have  writ¬ 
ten  in  praise  of  this  simple  and  useful  little  im¬ 
plement.  Mr.  C.  B.  Meek,  of  Canandaigua,  N. 
Y.,  states  that  he  brought  one  with  him  from 
England,  28  years  ago,  and  he  has  the  identi¬ 
cal  hoe  in  use  yet,  it  having  been  occasionally 
relaid  with  steel.  He  says :  “  I  make  all  my 
drills  for  seed  with  it,  and  by  working  it  deep 
between  my  growing  crops,  I  can  defy  all 
drouths.”  Mr.  M.  states  that  this  hoe  was  in¬ 
vented  by  the  late  Lord  Vernon  of  Derbyshire, 
Eng.,  and  that  the  proper  name  is  the  Vernon 


Hoe.  We  were  aware  that  it  sometimes  bore 
this  name,  and  as  it  was  earlier  called  the  Span¬ 
ish  Hoe,  we  gave  the  name  by  which  it  is  best 
known  in  this  country.  Whatever  may  be  the 
oldest  and  therefore  most  proper  name,  it  is 
certainly  a  most  valuable  garden  implement. 

-■  -^4 - — <»^ll  - - - 

Gardens  for  the  Children. 


A  Michigan  lady  thus  sensibly  pleads  the 
cause  of  the  young  people :  “  A  great  deal  can 
be  done  to  encourage  horticultural  tastes  and 
industrious  habits  in  children.  Why  don’t 
farmers  fence  off  little  gardens  for  their  larger 
boys  and  girls,  and  allow  them  to  have  all  they 
can  raise  from  them  ?  Put  agricultural  papers  in 
their  hands,  and  encourage  them  to  try  exper¬ 
iments  in  wheat  raising,  cultivating  seedling 
fruits,  etc.  Put  a  good  magnifying  glass  into 
their  hands,  that  they  may  become  acquaintec. 
with  their  insect  friends  and  enemies.  To  those 
old  enough  to  appreciate  and  take  care  of  them, 
give  choice  plants  to  cultivate,  or  what  would 
pei'haps  sometimes  be  better,  let  them  earn 
money  in  some  way  and  purchase  them  for 
themselves.  Don’t  turn  them  off  with  an  Isa¬ 
bella  grape  when  it  will  not  ripen  for  you ;  let 
them  have  a  Delaware  or  a  Concord,  that  they 
may  be  more  sure  of  a  return  for  their  labors. 
So  of  strawberries  and  other  things.  Excite 
in  them  a  desire  of  excelling  in  raising  fine 
fruits  and  vegetables.  Let  them  get  up  chil¬ 
dren’s  agricultural  fairs  and  horticultural  socie¬ 
ties  for  discussion,  etc.  Don’t  you  think  the  Ag¬ 
ricultural  papers  will  be  studied  if  you  do  this, 
and  don’t  you  think  you  will  raise  a  family  of 
intelligent  and  well-informed  men  and  women  ? 

“  So  of  domestie  animals.  If  you  have  a  boy  a 
dozen  years  old,  give  him  a  yoke  of  calves  to 
train ;  give  the  girls  lambs,  and  let  them  have 
the  fleeces  as  a  reward  for  good  care,  or  allow 
them  to  raise  some  fine  cows  for  themselves. 
Children  need  objects  to  love,  and  incentives  to 
faithful  iabor,  and  they  will  love  home  all  the 
more  if  you  attach  them  to  it  by  pleasant  mem¬ 
ories  and  good  kind  instruction.” — Well  said. 


A  Diminutive  Variety  of  Corn. 


There  are  upon  our  Exhibition  Tables  some 
ears  of  corn  about  15  inches  in 
length,  and  we  do  not  know 
how  much  larger  ears  maj'be 
produced ;  but  in  the  opposite 
direction  we  think  that  the  mini¬ 
mum  has  been  reached  in  an  ear 
sent  us  by  Mr.  A.  Berry,  Hamil¬ 
ton  Co.,  O.,  with  the  name  of 
“  Brazilian  Pop  Corn.”  The 
engraving  gives  the  exact  size  and 
shape ;  the  color  is  a  fine  gar¬ 
net  red.  An  experiment  with 
a  few  kernels  shows  it  to  be  of 
excellent  quality  for  popping; 
though  it  does  not  make  as 
large  grains  as  some  other  kinds. 
Mr.  B.  thinks  he  has  acclimated 
the  variety ;  at  all  events  the  ear 
sent  us  seems  to  be  perfectly 
matured.  It  is  recommended  to 
grow  it  in  drills,  leaving  the 
plants  18  inches  apart.  The 
suckers  are  not  removed,  as  they 
bear  as  well  as  the  main  stalk, 
and  each  plant  yields  from  4  to 
10  ears,  or  even  more,  accord¬ 
ing  to  circumstances.  We  are 
not  informed  if  the  variety  is  in  the  market 


53 


[February, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


“  Gei’Hiail  Ivy.” — Senedo  mikanoides. 


Under  tlie  name  of  “  German  Ivy  ”  we  have 
..nltivated  for  several  years  a  very  quick  growing, 
but  rather  tender  climber.  In  shape  its  leaves 
eomewhat  resemble  those  of  the  true  Iv}",  hence 
its  popular  name — but  it  is  really  neither  an  Iv}', 
nor  German.  The  plant  is  from  the  Cape  of  Good 
Hope,  and  belongs  to  the  Composite  fxmily,  one 
which  gives  us  but  few  climbers.  It  has  had  a 
great  variety  of  names — the  correct  one  we  be¬ 
lieve,  being  Senedo  mikanoides.  Senedo  is  a  very 
large  genus,  containing  species  from  all  parts  of 
ihe  world.  The  name  mikanoides  is  given  to  the 
present  one  from  its  resemblance  in  its  climbing 
habit  to  Mikania.  Among  other  names  for  this 
plant  we  find  Senedo  scandens,  Belairea  odorata, 
D.  scandens,  Breonia  palmata,  etc.  When  the  plant 
nas  liberty  to  run  to  an  unlimited  e.vtent,  it  sel¬ 
dom  flowers,  but  sometimes  when  confined,  es¬ 
pecially  if  grown  in  a  pot  where  its  roots  be¬ 
come  crowded,  it  blossoms  freely.  We  are  in¬ 
debted  to  a  friend  in  Lawrence,  Mass.,  for  the 
specimen  from  which  the  engraving  is  made. 
The  flowers  are  of  a  lively  yellow,  and  fragrant ; 
they,  as  well  as  the  leaves,  are  shown  consider¬ 
ably  less  than  the  natural  size.  The  chief  use 
of  the  plant  is  to  form  a  leafy  screen,  a  purpose 
to  which  its  large  foliage  and  rapid  growth  w'cll 
adapt  it.  It  answers  to  cover  unsightly  objects 
in  the  grounds,  and  makes  an  excellent  window 
plant  within  doors.  It  grows  with  the  greatest 
ease  from  cuttings,  every  joint  making  a  plant. 


When  is  a  Tree  Grafted  1 


A  correspondent  in  Whiteside  Co.,  Ill.,  writes 
to  the  Agriculturist :  “We  have  a  few  R.  I.  Green¬ 
ing  trees  which  were  bent  down  when  small, 
and  layers  were  made  of  them  ;  therefore,  the 
trees  we  now  have  are  all  grafted,  roots  and  all. 
1  wish  to  knov/  whether  the  seed  from  the  fruit 
of  these  trees  will  produce  the  same  variety  or 
not.”  The  writer  of  the  above  does  not  seem  to 
h.ave  a  very  distinct  idea  of  what  grafting  is, 
and,  in  common  with  many  others,  supposes  the 
term  grafted  applies  to  a  quality  of  fruit,  instead  of 
to  the  process  by  which  varieties  are  propagated. 


The  trees  he  re¬ 
fers  to,  instead  of 
being  any  more 
completely  graft¬ 
ed  than  trees  usu¬ 
ally  are,  in  fact, 
are  not  grafted  at 
all,  but  are  mere¬ 
ly  R.  I.  Greenings 
“  on  their  owm 
roots,”  as  the  gar¬ 
deners  sa3^  If 
cions  from  a  very 
indifferent  “na¬ 
tural”  tree  were 
to  be  inserted  in¬ 
to  these  Greening 
trees,the  fruit  pro¬ 
duced  by  them 
would  be  “graft¬ 
ed  fruit,”  notwith¬ 
standing  its  infe¬ 
rior  quality.  As 
we  are  in  the  ha¬ 
bit  of  perpetuat¬ 
ing  only  choice 
varieties  of  fruit 
by  grafting,  many 
take  it  as  a  mat¬ 
ter  of  course  that 
fruit  thus  propa¬ 
gated  must  be  of  a  superior  quality,  which  is  in 
some  way  derived  from,  or  imparted  to  it,  by  the 
operation  of  grafting.  This  impression  is  aided 
by  the  fact  that  budding  is  also  called  inocula¬ 
ting,  and  as  this  latter  term  is  also  used  for  vac¬ 
cinating  it  has  probably  given  the  idea  that  the 
character  of  a  tree  is  modified  by  the  introduc¬ 
tion  of  some  virus  or  principle  into  its  system. 
The  error  of  this  impression  will  be  manifest 
when  we  compare  the  operations  of  grafting  and 
budding  with  other  modes  of  propagation.  In 
making  a  layer.,  a  branch  is  partly  buried  in  the  I 
earth,  and  it  remains  more 
or  less  in  union  with  the 
parent  plant  until  it  makes 
roots  of  its  own.  In  propa¬ 
gating  by  cuttings,  the  branch 
is  completely  severed  from 
the  parent,  and  planted  in 
the  ground  to  strike  root  and 
form  a  new  individual.  In 
grafting,  a  cutting  is  planted 
in  another  tree,  with  which 
it  unites,  and  uses  I’oots  al¬ 
ready  provided,  instead  of 
making  roots  of  its  own. 

The  cion  or  cutting  used  in 
grafting  has  several  buds 
upon  it,  while  in  budding  a 
single  bud  is  employed.  The 
future  growth  from  the  cion 
or  bud  partakes  of  the  char¬ 
acter,  good  or  bad,  of  the 
tree  from  which  it  is  taken  ; 
and,  though  the  fruit  may 
be  somewhat  modified  by 
the  character  of  the  stock 
upon  which  it  is  grafted  or 
budded,  we  believe  the  influ¬ 
ence  is  always  confined  with¬ 
in  rather  narrow  limits. 

- o - 

Fruits  for  Illinois. — At 
a  recent  meeting  of  the  Illi¬ 
nois  Horticultural  Soc’y  the 
following  fruits  were  recom¬ 
mended  for  general  cultivation,  without  dividing 
the  State  into  Northern,  Central  and  Southern 


fruit  districts,  as  has  formerly  been  done: 

Early  Harvest,  Red  June,  Sweet 
June,  Early  Pennock,  Maiden’s  Blush,  Rambo, 
Snow  Apple,  Jonathan,  Yellow  Bellflower, 
Talman,  Rawles’  Janet,  Willow  Twig,  Wine 
Sap..  .Pears. — White  Doyenne,  Flemish  Beauty, 
Seckel,  Duchess,  Jersey,  Easter  Beurre,  Bart¬ 
lett,  Osband’s  Summer.  ..GAemes. — Early  Rich¬ 
mond . Grapes. — Concord,  Hartford  Prolific, 

Delaware,  Norton’s  Virginia,  Clinton,  Herbe- 

mont - Quinces. — The  Orange  Quince...  .PtocA:- 

herries. — New  Rochelle.. .Aosji&emes. — Doolittle’s 
Purple  Cane,  Ohio  Ever-bearing... iSfe  awiern’es. — 
Wilson’s  Albany,  Iowa.. . .  Gooseberries. — Hough¬ 
ton,  Upright  Cluster,  or  Pale  Red...  Currants. — 
Red  Dutch,  White  Dutch,  Grape,  Victoria. 


A  new  “  Everlasting  Flower.” 


{Helipterum  Sanfordii.) 

Those  flowers  having  that  peculiar  papery 
texture  which  enables  them  to  preserve  their 
form  and  color  upon  being  dried,  are  de¬ 
servedly  popular.  Besides  being  useful  in  the 
garden,  they  are  valuable  for  dry  bouquets, 
which  make  very  pretty  winter  decorations. 
The  number  of  these  has  been  much  increased 
of  late  years,  and  we  now  have  a  quite  full 
assortment  of  colors,  from  the  pure  white  of  the 
Ammohium  and  AcrocUnium,  to  the  purple  of  some 
of  the  Eelichrysums.  Last  autumn  we  saw  in 
the  collection  of  Mr.  James  Vick,  at  Rochester, 
a  fine  golden  yellow  everlasting  flower,  the  hab¬ 
it  and  color  of  w’hich  were  very  pleasing.  It 
was  the  recently  introduced  Helipterum  Sanfordii, 
which  is  a  very  pretty  border  plant  and  when 
dried,  holds  its  color  remarkably  w'ell.  Like  all 
the  rest,  when  intended  to  be  preserved  in  the 
dry  state,  this  should  be  picked  as  soon  as  the 
flowers  expand,  or  before  they  are  fully  opened. 
Mr.  Vick  has  sent  us  a  specimen  and  we  give 
an  engraving  which  shows  a  cluster  of  the  nat- 


HELIPTEKUM  SANFOBDII. 

uralsize,  and  at  the  left  a  much  reduced  figure 
showing  the  manner  of  growth  of  the  plant 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST, 


63 


Garden  Seeds— Look  Out  for  Them  Now. 

Every  "oocl  gardener  should  now  be  looking 
after  the  seed  that  he  is  to  sow  next  spring.  Of 
the  imported  varieties,  the  supply  will  probably 
be  much  less  than  the  demand,  and  even  of 
home-grown  seeds  the  stock  frequently  gives 
out  by  planting  time,  as  was  the  case  with  onion 
seed  last  year.  It  is  scarcely  necessary  to  in¬ 
sist  upon  the  importance  of  good  seeds — good 
not  only  as  being  of  a  good  sort  or  strain,  but 
good  as  to  their  germinating  power.  Old  seeds 
are  often  a  source  of  great  loss  and  disappoint¬ 
ment,  and  many  are  sold  each  year  which  are 
only  fit  to  be  thrown  into  the  fire.  It  is  espe¬ 
cially  difficult  to  procure  at  a  distance  from 
seedsmen  of  reputation,  seeds  on  which  one  can 
rely  with  confidence.  Seedsmen  put  up  their 
boxes  of  seeds  with  a  flaming  printed  label, 
“Warranted  Fresh.”  All  very  true  and  fair  for 
the  first  year;  but  when  these  boxes  of  seeds 
are  brought  out  year  after  year  for  many  years, 
it  is  neither  true  nor  fair.  Many  kinds  of  seeds 
will  not  vegetate  after  the  first  or  second  jmar. 
The  only  honest  way  is  for  the  dealer  to  label 
his  boxes  with  the  year  in  which  they  were  put 
up,  leaving  it  to  the  purchaser  to  decide  for 
himself  whether  or  no  they  are  “fresh”  enough 
for  his  use.  Test  by  sprouting  a  few  of  each  lot. 


Propagating  Hyacinths. 

Hyacinth  bulbs  are  imported  from  Holland, 
where  large  farms  are  devoted  to  their  propa¬ 
gation.  Our  correspondent,  F.  Scholer,  of  Long 
Island,  states  that  he  can  raise  bulbs  as  good 
as  the  foreign  ones,  and  nearly  as  cheaply  as 
onions.  Having  some  bulbs  in  which  the  heart, 
or  central  bud  had  deca3"ed,  he  planted  then»  in 
autumn,  and  found  in  spring,  that  numerous 
small  bulbs  were  formed  around  each  old  one, 
in  one  case  to  the  number  of  34.  These  when 
taken  up  in  July  were  found  to  be  about  the 
size  of  one’s  thumb;  they  were  planted  again  in 
autumn,  and  the  following  summer  when  tliey 
were  lifted,  were  found  to  be  equal  in  size  and 
quality  to  the  imported  ones.  Acting  on  this 
hint,  he  afterward  removed  the  central  bud  from 
bulbs  by  means  of  a  knife,  and  succeeded  in  get¬ 
ting  a  crop  of  small  bulbs.  The  experiment  is 
easily  tried,  and  we  see  no  reason  why,  if  suffi¬ 
cient  pains  be  taken,  good  bulbs  may  not  be 
as  easily  grown  in  our  own  gardens  as  abroad. 


fME  IEI®lIJgEM®ILID). 


How  to  Begin  Housekeeping 


“  Molly  Homespun  ”  writes  to  the  American  Aej- 
ricuUiiHst ;  “  Something  more  is  required  in  house¬ 
keeping  than  recipes  for  cakes  and  cookies,  though 
these  are  very  good,  but  rather  costly  these  times, 
with  sugar  at  30  cents  a  pound.  I  write  for  young 
housekeepers,  and  commence  with  the  kitchen, 
the  most  necessary  room  in  a  house.  Before  going 
to  housekeeping,  the  young  wife  should  know  just 
how  much  can  be  afforded  to  furnish  the  house  with, 
and  then  commence  at  the  kitchen,  instead  of  the 
parlor;  and  every  married  woman,  rich  or  poor, 
should  know  what  is  needed  there  for  order  and 
despatch.  The  kitchen  should  be  as  large  as  can  be 
afforded.  Next,  have  plenty  of  good  soft  water,  if 
you  can  get  it.  Have  a  pipe  come  up  over  the  top 
of  the  sink,  with  a  faucet  to  draw  the  water  from. 
Let  the  sink  be  barge,  and  on  one  end  have  three  or 
four  slats  nailed  crosswise,  to  set  dishes  in  to  drain. 
This  will  s.ave  many  hours  labor  in  the  course  of  a 
year,  besides  the  wash  and  wear  of  a  dish  wipem, 


A  CONVENIENT  KITCHEN  SINK. 

the  washing  of  which  is  quite  an  item,  if  it  is 
always  kept  clean  ;  and  allo\v  anything  ebse  in  the 
kitchen  rather  than  a  dirti/  dish-wiper.  Have  a 
boai'd  on  one  side  of  the  >in;;  to  juit  the  dishes  on 
aftei’  draining.  This  will  aSo  be  convenient  for 
dishes  while  serving  up  a  dinner,  and  will  answer 
every  purpose  of  a  table  to  mix  and  iron  on,  and 
for  many  other  little  things  which  retpiire  a  table.” 
Onr  artist  has  sketched  such  a  convenient  ar¬ 
rangement,  with  one  or  two  additions.  Two  faucets 
are  represented  above  the  sink.  In  many  dwellings, 
arrangements  are  made  for  a  How  of  either  hot  or 
cold  water,  which  is  greatly  desirable.  A  shelf  un¬ 
der  the  sink  is  convenient  for  [lots  and  kettles,  and 
a  stnall  cupboard  under  the  ilraining  board  will  not 
come  atniss.  The  waste  pi,'e  underneath  has  an 
“8”  curve,  or  trap,  to  prevent  a  draught  of  foul 
air  rising  through  the  drain  The  entrance  to  the 
waste  pipe  in  the  sink  should  be  covered  with 
wire  netting,  or  perforated  metal  not  easily  rusted. 


ridge  before  stirring  the 
pumpkin  into  it.  Custard 
pie  may  be  made  withcf^ 
eggs  also,  from  milk  flour 
porridge,  by  adding  the 
necessary  pastry  and  sea¬ 
soning.  Custards  may  be 
made  in  the  same  way, 
or  with  Irish  moss,  or  ren¬ 
net.  Samp  from  Indian 
meal  makes  a  very  palat¬ 
able  pie  in  imitation  of 
rice.  Baked  apples  are  a 
good  and  most  wholesome 
substitute  for  pies,  and 
they  save  sugar.  Good 
cake  may  be  made  with 
thin  sour  cream  and  soda, 
without  eggs,  or  butter- 
Mince  pies,  to  be  very 
good,  need  not  have  ab 
the  customary  ingredients 
— dried  berries  may  be 
substituted  for  raisins, 
and  if  you  have  blackberry 
pickles,  try  them — they 
are  good.  Green  Hub¬ 


Economical  Cooking. 

How  to  live  cheaply  and  at  ihe  same  time  health¬ 
fully,  is  a  problem  which  many  would  be  glad  to 
solve.  A  few  hints  in  this  diiection  may  be  of  ser¬ 
vice.  Flour  or  some  equival.-nt  is  an  essential,  but 
superfine  wheat  flour,  for  eoif-tant  use,  is  not  essen¬ 
tial,  and  quite  an  item  may  be  saved  by  imrchasing 
wheat, instead  of  barreled  Hour,  and  having  it  ground- 
without  bolting.  The  use  of  this  wheat  meal  a 
portion  of  the  time,  will  eimduco  to  health,  and 
perhaps  save  another  item  in  the  doctor’s  bill. 
Rye  Hour  is  not  near  as  expensive  as  tine  wheat 
flour,  and  corn  meal  is  C'-nsiderably  less  also; 
it  wdll  pay  therefore  to  use  to  some  extent  the  good 
oid  fashioned  rye  and  Indian  bread.  A  very  sweet 
bread  may  be  made  of  corn  meal  alone,  with  no 
addition  but  pure  water,  if  baked  quickly  in  thin 
sheets.  If  you  have  milk  to  use  with  it,  there  are 
many  excellent  ways  of  preparing  corn  and  corn 
meal,  to  accompany  it,  and  this  grain  may  proper¬ 
ly  be  used  largely  in  winter.  Manj"  liave  forgotten 
how  people  used  to  hull  corn  by  the  use  of  weak 
ley,  and  what  an  amount  of  good  solid  food  may 
be  prepared  thus  from  two  or  three  quarts  of  corn. 
New  Dent  corn  makes  excellent  hulled  corn,  and 
eaten  with  cream  and  maple  sugar,  or  with  milk, 
or  milk  and  butter,  or  cream  alone,  is  good  enough, 
and  very  nutritious.  Butter  and  lard  are  very  high  ; 
it  may  interest  some  to  be  reminded  that  butter¬ 
milk  with  a  slight  addition  of  butter  or  other  short¬ 
ening — that  which  comes  from  boiled  beef  should 
not  be  overlooked — makes  a  healthful  and  very 
good  pie-crust.  For  pics,  if  apples  are  scarce,  re¬ 
member  the  pumpkins  and  squashes;  good  pump¬ 
kin  pies  can  be  prepared  without  eggs,  by  making 
the  milk  used,  or  a  portion  of  it,  into  a  flour  por¬ 


bard  squashes  prepared  as  pumpkins  are  fixed 
for  pies,  are  relished  by  some,  and  it  is  a  very 
good  way  to  use  them  up.  Rutabagas  cost  much 
less  than  potatoes,  per  bushel,  and  are  certainly 
good  food.  Beans  are  high,  but  they  give  more 
nutriment  for  the  same  money  than  many  lower 
priced  articles  of  food.  Onions  eaten  with  pota¬ 
toes  are  a  good  sub.stitutc  for  meat.  With  plenty 
of  vegetables,  milk,  and  fruit,  meats  are  not  essen¬ 
tial.  Health  and  strength  can  be  maintained  with¬ 
out  pork,  notwithstanding  the  high  opinion  many 
have  of  its  strength-producing  quality. 


How  to  Make  Good  Bread. 


Tlie  subject  of  making  good  bread  was  pretty 
thoroughly  discussed  in  the  American  Agriculturist 
last  year,  by  various  correspondents.  But  as  we 
can  scarcely  have  too  much  light  on  such  a  subject, 
and  especially  for  the  benefit  of  thousands  of  new 
subscribers,  we  publish  the  following  plain  and 
practical  hints  contributed  by  a  lady  who  has  always 
made  her  own  bread,  and  made  it  good,  for  years  ; 

“  Of  course  we  waut  good  flour  to  begin  with, 
and  1  always  want  some  good  potatoes,  and  hops 
also.  Then  I  make  what  I  call  ‘  stock  yeast  ’  which 
I  always  take  care  to  keep  on  hand,  as  it  will  keep 
good  from  four  to  six  weeks — and  I  have  kept 
it  eight,  but  think  it  better  not  quite  so  old — it  is 
easily  done.  It  is  made  as  follows  :  Boil  two  or 
three  handfuls  of  loose  hops  in  two  quarts  of  water, 
one  and  one  half  hours,  then  strain  the  liquor  on 
two  tablespoonfuls  of  flour  previously  wet  with 
cold  water,  to  prevent  its  lumping ;  stir  well  and 
let  it  stand  until  milk  warm.  Add  two  thirds  of 
a  cup  of  yeast,  let  it  ferment  twelve  or  fifteen  hours 
in  a  warm  room,  then  bottle  for  use.  Any  sweet 
hop  yeast  will  do  to  start  the  above,  after  which 
brew  before  you  are  out,  and  start  from  the  same. 
Shake  this  yeast  well  when  wanted  to  use. 

I  then  make  a  ferment  which  I  use  to  raise  the 
bread,  as  follows :  Wash  clean,  and  boil  soft,  say 
two  quarts  of  potatoes,  mash  fine  with  one  half  the 
quantity  of  flour  while  hot,  reduce  with  cold  water 
so  as  not  to  scald,  add  half  a  cup  of  stock  yeast  and 
let  it  ferment  eight  or  ten  hours  or  until  it  begins 
to  fiill  at  the  top,  when  it  is  ready  for  use.  It  may 
be  strained  before  or  after  fermentation.  I  usually 
strain  it  through  a  colander.  It  will  be  about  as 
thick  before  fermentation  as  dough  prepared  for 
fritters.  We  may  use  any  quantity  of  this  wc  choose, 
as  it  has  no  bitter  or  unpleasant  taste,  of  course 
the  more  we  use,  the  quicker  the  bread  will  l  ise. 
This  will  keep  in  cold  weather  about  two  weeks, 
in  summer  not  as  iong.  Yeast  and  ferment  should 
always  be  kept  in  a  cool  place  ready  for  use  ;  freez¬ 
ing  or  scalding  will  entirely  destroy  their  virtue. 

In  the  evening  I  lay  my  sponge,  using  one  third 


54 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Febiwakt, 


ferment,  one  third  water,  one  third  milk — if  I  have 
It,  if  not,  two  thirds  water — and  a  little  salt.  Cov¬ 
er  with  a  cloth  and  let  it  stand  in  a  warm  place  un¬ 
til  moruinn;,  then  knead  until  it  works  free  of  the 
hands  and  board.  Let  it  rise  again  in  the  pans  and 
bake.  The  sponge  should  be  made  a  little  too  soft 
to  mould,  but  the  more  flour  is  used  the  longer  it 
■will  take  to  rise;  in  summer  it  should  be  made 
quite  stift  It  should  always  rise  until  it  has  a  del¬ 
icate,  silky  touch  to  the  hand,  or  until  it  begins  to 
fall  at  the  top,  which  is  always  a  sure  test.  If 
worked  too  soon,  the  bread  Will  be  tough  and  dark 
colored,  if  baked  without  kneading,  it  will  be  coarse 
grained,  while  that  which  is  thoroughly  kneaded 
has  an  opposite  appearance.  A  good  loaf  will  al¬ 
ways  be  fine  grained,  still  very  light  and  showy.  I 
always  keep  my  bread  when  cold,  in  a  stone  jar, 
then  it  does  not  get  dry. 

I  have  been  married  six  years,  have  always  done 
my  own  work  unless  I  was  sick,  and  during  that 
time  I  can  safely  say  I  have  not  failed  one  time  out 
of  twenty  five  to  have  my  bread  all  right.  I  have 
not  used  the  value  of  half  a  pound  of  saleratus,  and 
have  never  lost  my  stock  yeast. 

Out  of  curiosity  I  tried  the  hot  bricks  as  recom¬ 
mended  by  “  Hatt,”  in  the  July  number  last  year. 
The  bread  was  sweet,  but  not  so  bulky  by  one 
fourth,  coarse  grained,  and  not  as  good  nor  hand¬ 
some— if  I  may  use  the  expression — as  if  kneaded 
the  second  time,  and  I  am  quite  sure  it  did  not  go 
as  far.  I  think  it  better  to  use  a  little  more  ‘leaven’ 
and  not  quite  so  much  force,  at  any  rate  I  felt  near¬ 
er  ‘  Paradise  ’  when  I  had  seen  the  last  of  it  and  re¬ 
placed  one  of  my  loaves  on  the  table.” 


A  Bachelor’s  Opinion  of  “Eecipes.” 


The  editor  who  usually  attends  to  the  House¬ 
hold  department  was  much  occupied  just  as  matter 
was  wanted  to  complete  these  pages  ;  so  he  handed 
a  largo  tile  of  recipes,  which  had  been  contributed 
by  the  kindness  of  onr  readers,  to  one  of  his  asso¬ 
ciate  editors  with  a  request  that  he  would  select 
some  of  the  best  .and  prepare  them  for  publication. 
This  associate  is  a  bachelor,  and  as  a  matter  of 
course,  he  thinks  that  he  knows  more  about  house¬ 
keeping  and  bringing  up  children  than  those  who 
have  tried  both.  He  returned  the  documents  with 
the  following  notes — ;  “  Here  you  have  at  least  a 
hundred  recipes,  and  probably  not  five  things  fit  to 
cat  can  be  made  from  them.  Well,  that  is  proba¬ 
bly  about  the  usual  proportion,  as  one  of  the  best 
housekeepers  in  New  York  told  me  that  she 
bought  ever}’  new  cook  book,  and  felt  quite  con¬ 
tented  if  she  could  find  five  good  things  in  each. 
Some  of  your  recipes  have  been  read,  and  others, 
like  the  bills  in  Congress,  have  been  ‘  read  by  title 
and  passed.’  People  are  puzzled  to  know  what 
shall  be  done  with  the  leading  rebel  when  caught. 
If  it  wouldn’t  be  too  cruel,  I  would  make  him  try 
the  diflferent  recipes  that  come  to  this  office.  He’d 

never  rebel  any  more,  I  guess . Here  is  one  for 

pork  .apple  pie,  and  another  for  apple  pork  pie.  No, 
I  thank  you.  The  sight  of  that  big  hog  exhibited 
in  the  office  of  the  American  Agriculturist  has  been 
pork  enough  for  the  rest  of  my  life.  But,  seriously, 
do  people  ever  eat  pork  in  apple  pies  ? — do  they 
put  in  any  s.aleratus  ? — Here  is  a  woman  who  sends 
a  recipe  for  a  pudding  ‘  which  can’t  be  beaten.’ — 
As  there  are  no  eggs  in  it,  I  don’t  sec  why  it  should 
be.  Soda — soda — cream  of  tartar — saleratus — no,  I 
won’t  publish  any  of  these,  and  induce  people  to 
turn  their  kitchen  into  an  apothecary’s  shop. — Here 
is  a  recipe  to  ‘  keep  sausage  meat.’  The  best  way 
is  to  have  no  saus.age  me.at,  but  if  you  do  happen 
to  have  some  about  the  house,  lock  it  up  in  a  chest 
and  lose  the  key — or  do  any  thing  but  eat  it. — 
‘  Keeping  eggs’— better  keep  hens  and  use  the  eggs, 
— I  never  saw  an  egg  improve  much  by  keeping. — 
Here  is  something  about  ‘bread  making.’ — As  we 
havn’t  said  much  on  that  subjeet,  it  would  be  well 
to  publish  this. — Pshaw!  it  has  ‘salt  r.aising.’ — Now 
how  can  people  spoil  flour  in  this  way,  and  call  it 
bread? — ‘Poor  man’s  fruitcake.’  Pray  what  busi- 
pess  have  poor  folks  with  fruit  c.ake  V— but  let  us 
what  it  is  made  of:  flour,  eggs,  pork  fat  and 


soda.  That  ’ll  do. — If  poor  folks  have  pork  fat  and 
soda,  let  them  make  soap  and  take  in  washing,  and 
then  they  won’t  be  poor.  My  washerwoman  gets 
a  dollar  a  dozen,  and  dresses  better  than  my  wife — 
could  if  I  had  one.  Poor  folks’  cake  indeed ! — ‘  Rhu- 
b.arb  mince  pie’ — This  must  be  a  good  idea.-I  used 
to  be  foolish  enough  to  eat  minee  pie,  and  then  I 
had  to  take  the  rhubarb  the  next  day ;  here  the  two 
are  combined  in  one  dose. — Oh !  it  means  pie-plant, 
and  that  is  out  of  season. — How  can  I  publish  any 
of  these  recipes  ;  eake  I  never  eat,  puddings  I  ab¬ 
hor,  sausages  I  detest,  aud  mince  pies  I  abominate, 
and  you  knew  it  when  you  put  the  job  into  my 
hands — about  as  sensible  as  to  turn  a  bull  into  a 
china  shop.  I  have  looked  over  the  whole 
batch  of  recipes,  and  though  I  don’t  doubt  they 
are  good  of  their  kind,  it  is  the  kind  that  don’t  suit 
me.  The  only  thing  the  title  of  which  tempts  me 
at  all  is  Johnny  eake.  I  open  the  recipe,  and  find 
that  though  the  mixture  may  be  good,  it  is  b.aked 
in  an  oven  !  Shade  of  my  grandmother !  a  Johnny 
cake  in  an  oven  !  Don’t  you  see  that  when  it  is 
baked  in  an  oven,  though  it  may  be  something 
good,  it  isn’t  Johnny  cake.  That  must  be  baked  on 
the  middle  piece  of  the  head  of  a  flour  barrel 
(Beach’s  brand  preferred),  with  a  hole  in  the  north¬ 
east  corner.  The  cake  is  placed  on  this,  and  set 
up  against  a  flat  iron  in  front  of  a  bed  of  hiekory 
co.als,  to  bake,  and  nothing  short  of  this  can  be 
Johnny  cake — but  as  I  sometime  intend  to  make  a 
cook-book,  I  won’t  say  anything  more  about  it. — 
If  I  do  make  a  cook  book,  I  won’t  have  any  mince 
pies,  any  sausages,  nor  cakes,  nor  puddings,  nor 
anything  sweet,  nor  any  saleratus ;  but  just  you 
wait  .and  see  what  I  do  put  in.” 

All  of  which  goes  to  show  how  “  Doctors  dis¬ 
agree,”  especially  bachelors.  Well,  perhaps  food 
that  common  folks  find  agreeable  ought  not  to 
agree  with  a  bachelor.  At  .any  rate,  our  readers  will 
agree  that  our  bachelor  is  spicy  enough,  and  that 
the  best  thing  he  c.an  do  before  writing  his  cook 
book  will  be  to  t.ake  lessons  in  a  few  first  principles 
from  some  competent  lady.  At  present  we  hand 
him  over  to  the  tender  mercies  of  our  fair  corres¬ 
pondents.  When  time  jiermits,  some  of  their  much 
abused  but  good  recipes  will  be  published. — Ed. 
UousEHOLD  Dei’aktment,  (whoever  he  may  be.) 

- - - - - - 

Household  Hotes  for  February. 

Look  to  the  children’s  boots  and  shoes  which  may 
be  wearing  through  by  this  time.  Do  not  allow 
them  to  go  with  damp  feet.  Whole  boots  are  not 
alwa5’s  water-proof. . . .  Prepare  spring  and  summer 
clothing,  before  the  garden  and  dairy  claim  atten¬ 
tion.  Study  what  improvements  can  be  made  in 
the  garden  the  eoming  spring,  and  by  what  means 
the  products  of  the  dairy  can  be  increased  in  this 
time  of  high  prices.  Is  the  dairy  room  suitable? 
Is  the  water  right  ?  Do  you  understand  the  best 
methods  of  making  butter  aud  eheese?  Give  at¬ 
tention  to  the  poultry.  Can  you  not  r.aise  some 
very  early  chickens,  for  the  table,  for  market,  and 
for  next  winter’s  layers?  Do  not  neglect  the  minds 
of  your  children.  What  advancement  are  they 
making  at  school  ?  Give  them  home  instruction. 
A  blackboard  is  a  very  useful  piece  of  household 
furniture,  affording  a  means  of  teaching  children 
many  things,  and  furnishing  them  with  pleasing 
employment.  Teach  them  common  things.  Chil¬ 
dren  are  often  very  eager  to  learn  about  things 
around  them,  and  if  properly  taught,  will  treasure 
up  a  grc.at  deal  of  scientific  knowledge. .. .Take 
the  fresh  air  daily  ;  do  not  let  the  cold  weather  make 
a  dormouse  of  you.... Try  and  get  sometime  to 
brush  up  the  chambers  of  your  own  mind.  Try  to 
keep  the  heart  young,  warm,  and  bright,  and  the 
children  cheerful  by  your  own  sunshiny  presence. 
Do  not  let  the  “  c.ares  of  this  world  ”  or  the  “  de¬ 
ceitfulness  of  riches”  che.at  you  out  of  the  bles¬ 
sings  of  a  glorious  and  eternal  future. 


Smoky  Pkunes  may  be  made  palatable  by  cover¬ 
ing  with  boiling  water,  stirring  them  quickly,  and 
draining  it  off.  Do  this  three  times  in  succession. 


Practical  Odds  and  Ends. 

Sent  by  Subscribers  to  the  American  AgriculluT' 
ist.  Please  send  plenty  more  of  the  same  sort. 

Greasing  Dishes,  griddles,  etc.,  for  cooking  is 
done  most  easily  with  a  swab  made  by  winding  a 
strip  of  clean  cotton  cloth  on  the  end  of  a  stick, 
and  fastening  it  with  twine. 

To  Sate  Sugak  in  Apple  Sauce.— Use  half  sweet 
and  half  sour  apples.  After  washing,  soak  them 
separately  over  night,  then  stew  them  in  the  same 
water  in  which  they  were  soaked.  Put  in  the  sweet 
apples  first,  and  w'hen  they  are  tender  add  the  sour 
ones.  Mem.  Next  fall  dry  plenty  of  sweet  apples. 

To  Clean  Bottles. — Partly  fill  the  bottle  with 
soap  suds,  drop  in  one  or  two  dozen  tacks,  or 
some  small  nails,  and  shake  them  up  briskly. 

Shoe  String  Tags  are  apt  to  come  off  speedily. 
A  blow  or  two  with  a  hammer  to  bring  the  sides 
together  will  keep  them  in  place. 

Buffalo  Robes. — A  subscriber  asks  how  they 
may  be  made  soft  and  pliable  after  being  wet  and 
hardened.  Will  some  one  please  inform  us. 

Itching  from  poisoning  or  other  cause  may  be 
relieved  by  rubbing  with  cloths  dipped  in  water  as 
hot  as  can  be  borne. 

Dried  Apples  may  be  easily  removed  from 
strings  by  cutting  the  knots  at  the  ends,  and  soak¬ 
ing  the  fruit  in  water  a  short  time.  Such  fruit 
should  always  be  washed  clean  before  cooking. 

- - - - 

Hints  on  Cooking",  etc. 


Mrealtfast  Com  Cake. —  Contributed 
by  Mrs.  F.  E.  H.  Kingsbury,  Suffolk  Co.,  Mass. 
Put  2  cups  of  Indian  meal  (or  1  of  Rye  and  1  of 
Indian),  )4  cup  of  flour,  and  cup  of  sugar  into  a 
dish,  and  add  a  good  sized  teaspoonful  of  saleratus. 
Stir  them  together  a  little,  then  stir  in  2  cups  of 
sour  milk,  the  sourer  the  better,  and  bake  in  a 
shallow  tin,  or  one  two  inches  deep.  As  no  eggs 
or  shortening  are  used,  this  is  very  economical, 
and  when  rightly  made,  it  is  also  a  very  nice  cake. 

Oood  “i^Htcalces.”— Contributed  by  Mrs. 
S.  J.Damon,  Plymouth  Co.,  Mass.  Mix  2  eggs,  1  cup 
sugar,  1  cup  sweet  milk,  butter  the  size  of  an  egg, 
2  teaspoonfuls  cream  of  tartar,  1  of  soda,  a  little 
nutmeg,  aud  flour  enough  to  roll  out.  Cut  in 
rounds,  making  a  small  hole  in  each,  then  drop 
them  into  hot  fat  and  fry  to  a  light  brown. 

Fas-niers’  Cake.  —  Contributed  by  L.  J 
Farrand,  Lamoile  Co.,  Vt.  Mix  1  cup  of  cream,  1 
of  sour  milk,  2  of  sugar,  2  eggs,  1  teaspoonful  sal¬ 
eratus,  and  1  of  salt,  with  flour  sufficient  to  make 
a  good  batter.  This  will  make  two  fair  sized  cakes. 

Improved  Hasty  Fadding.— Contrib¬ 
uted  by  “  R.  A.”  Sift  the  meal  and  make  a  bat¬ 
ter  of  meal  and  cold  water.  He.at  water  boiling 
hot,  salted  to  taste,  and  gradually  stir  in  the  batter 
until  just  thick  enough  for  the  mush  to  hop  .and 
sputter  while  boiling  hard.  Let  it  boil  from  one 
to  two  hours  over  a  slow  fire  ;  it  burns  easily,  and 
is  spoiled  if  scorched.  Do  not  add  .any  meal  after 
the  batter  is  all  in.  Make  it  free  from  lumps. 

Unbolted  Wkea,t  Bread.— Contributed 
to  the  American  Agriculturist  by  Mrs.  H.  N.  Low 
Salem  Co.,  N.  J.  Mix  one  quart  of  warm  ivater,  a 
teaspoonful  of  salt,  with  fine  wheat  flour  enough  to 
make  a  thin  batter.  Let  this  stand  uncovered  over 
night.  The  next  morning  stir  in  half  a  teaenpful 
of  molasses,  a  tablespoonful  of  salt,  .and  mix  with 
unbolted  flour  into  a  dough  stiff  enough  to  knead 
without  stickingto  thepan.  Let  it  risemoder.ately, 
mold  it  over,  place  it  in  a  greased  pan,  and  when 
entirely  light,  bake  it  about  three  quarters  of  an 
hour  in  a  moderately  hot  oven. 

Pickling  for  Mams  ©r  Beef.— Con¬ 
tributed  to  the  American  Agrmdturist  by  D.  Nice, 
Bennington  Co.,  Vt.  For  each  100  lbs.  of  meat, 
take  7  lbs.  coarse  salt,  5  lbs.  brown  sugar,  2  ounceg 


1865. 


AMEPwICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


55 


saltpeter,  ounce  soda  or  saleratus,  and  4  gallons 
water.  Boil  and  skim  the  mixture,  let  it  cool,  and 
when  cold  pour  it  upon  the  meat,  which  should  be 
weighted  to  keep  it  down.  Le.ave  common  sized 
hams  in  pickle  4  to  5  weeks.  Beef  can  be  kept  un¬ 
til  used  up,  if  the  brine  be  scalded  occasionally. 

United  Carrots  are  much  sweeter  than 
when  boiled.  A  Hubbard  squash  when  baked  pre- 
aerves  its  peculiar  aroma  and  sweetness  much  bet¬ 
ter  than  when  boiled.  In  northern  latitudes  it 
does  very  well  as  a  substitute  for  sweet  potatoes. 

Soda  Craclcers,  Contributed  by  Mrs.  C.  F. 
Noble,  McHenry  Co.,  Ill.  Flour,  2  quarts  ;  butter, 
1  cup  ;  water,  1  pint ;  cream  of  tartar,  3  teaspoon¬ 
fuls  ;  soda,  1}4  teaspoonfuls.  Mix  the  cream  tartar 
thoroughly  with  the  flour ;  then  rub  in  the  butter, 
and  add  the  water  and  soda  together.  Knead  about 
the  same  as  pastry  for  pie.  Roll  out  a  little  more 
than  an  eighth  of  an  inch  thick,  cut  in  squares,  and 
prick  them  all  over.  Bake  in  a  hot  oven  about 
twenty  minutes  or  till  dry.  Wash  the  oven  bottom 
clean,  and  put  the  crackers  on  it ;  for  they  will  not 
bake  well  on  tins. 

Pa.rs«ii}>  Croquettes.— Boil  the  parsnips 
iintil  tender,  and  mash  them.  Flour  a  dish  thickly, 
drop  a  spoonful  of  the  parsnip  on  the  flour,  and 
roll  it  in  the  flour  with  a  spoon  until  it  is  form¬ 
ed  into  a  ball.  Repe.at  this  process  until  you  have 
used  up  the  parsnips.  Have  a  frying  pan  of  lard 
hot,  drop  the  balls  in,  and  boil  a  light  brown.  The 
.ard  must  be  boiling  hot,  and  enough  of  it  to  float 
the  bails.  This  is  excellent,  and  has  been  eaten  by 
those  who  thought  they  could  not  eat  parsnips. 

Codiisli  Bla.lls. — “  A  Gratified  Reader”  war¬ 
rants  the  following  to  be  superior :  Soak  and  boil 
the  fish,  and  pick  it  into  small  shreds  the  same  as 
for  ordinary  fish  cakes.  This  is  to  be  done  over 
night.  In  the  morning  boil  and  mash  potatoes,  and 
while  warm  mix  well  with  the  fish,  and  mix  into 
balls.  In  the  meantime  have  lard  heating  in  a  fry¬ 
ing  pan,  and  when  this  is  boiling  hot,  drop  in  the 
fish  balls,  and  cook  to  a  light  brown.  The  balls 
should  be  as  hot  as  possible,  or  they  will  cool  and 
then  absorb  the  fat,  which  will  spoil  them.  There 
should  be  suffleient  lard  for  the  balls  to  swim  in. 


Something'  Ahont  SPremn.s. 


The  writet  believes  in  dreams,  that  is  after  his  own 
'ashion.  He  does  not  believe  that  one  can  tell  from 
b  eams  wliat  is  about  to  happen.  Strange  stories  are  told 
of  things  occurring  after  certain  dreams,  but  nobody  knew 
what  the  vision  meant  until  after  the  event  came  to  pass, 
so  that  the  dreamer  was  no  wiser  tlian  tlie  people.  Any 
one  who  should  try  to  do  business  by  following  his 
dreams,  would  soon  have  no  money  to  dream  aliout.  Of 
course  we  do  not  refer  to  the  visions  which  the  prophets 
had  in  olden  times,  but  to  the  ordinary  dreams  which 
every  body  has.  Our  belief  in  dreams  is,  that  pleasant 
ones  are  very  desirable,  that  they  amuse  and  recreate  tlie 
mind  during  the  hours  of  sleep.  The  poorest  man  may 
enjoy  unbounded  wealth  for  eight  hours  out  of  the  twen¬ 
ty  four,  if  he  be  a  good  dreamer,  and  all  things  which  the 
heart  can  desire  may  come  without  an  effort.  Thus  at 
least  one  third  of  life  may  bring  pieasure,  and  this  is  as 
large  a  portion  of  enjoyment  as  most  men  have. 

A  hearty  meal  shortly  before  retiring,  very  great  anxi¬ 
ety,  too  lieavy  press  of  business,  or  whatever  disturbs 
body  or  mind  during  sieep,  will  often  bring  torment  to  the 
dreamer.  He  will  be  attacked  by  wild  beasts,  or  fall 
from  precipices,  or  be  drowning,  or  in  some  other  terri¬ 
ble  situation.  Pleasant  dreams  usually  attend  sound 
health,  a  proper  mode  of  life  and  a  quiet  conscience  ;  all 
of  which  will  add  to  happiness  by  day  as  well  as  at  night. 
The  most  important  dreams  come  when  people  are  wide 
awake.  Columbus  dreamed  in  this  way,  that  there  was 
a  Western  world,  and  then  he  went  to  work  to  find  it. 
Jefferson  Davis  and  otliers  dreamed  that  they  could  have 
greater  power  in  a  Southern  Confederacy,  and  they  are 
endeavoring  to  make  it  come  true.  Thousands  of  boys 
and  girls,  men  and  women,  are  every  day  dreaming  of 
becoming  rich  or  famous,  but,  they  do  not  go  to  work  to 
bring  it  about,  and  so  their  dreams  only  make  them  dis 
contented.  Here  then  are  three  things  to  be  noticed  : 
1st,  daydieam.s  are  useful  if  tliey  are  to  good  purpose. 
3d,  bad  dieatns  can,  and  should  be  dismissed  ;  and  3d,  to 
•ocomplish  anything.dreaming  must  be  followed  by  doing. 


“  If  Aobi  Bjovc  Me,  I^ean  Hard.” 

The  Boston  Recorder  relates  the  following:  “Miss 
Fiske,  while  in  the  Nestorian  Mission,  was  at  one  time 
in  feeble  health,  and  much  depressed  in  spirits.  One  hot 
Sabbath  afternoon,  she  sat  on  her  mat  on  the  chapel 
floor,  longing  for  support  and  I'est,  feeling  unable  to 
maintain  her  trying  position  until  fhe  close  of  worship. 
Presently  she  felt  a  woman’s  form  seated  at  her  back, 
and  heard  the  whisper  ‘  Lean  on  me.’  Scarcely  yielding 
to  the  request,  she  heard  it  repealed,  ‘  Lean  on  me.’ 
Then  she  divided  her  weight  with  the  gentle  pleader,  but 
that  did  not  suffice.  In  earnest,  almost  reproachful  tones 
the  voice  again  urged  ‘  If  you  love  me,  lean  hard.'  ”  This 
incident  is  worth  a  rvhole  voiume  of  commentary  on  the 
nature  of  true  love,  which  is  happiest  when  it  can  do 
most  for  the  loved  one. 


Colored  Mew  in  tlie  Army. 

A  friend  recently  returned  from  service  with  the  Chris¬ 
tian  Commission  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  relates 
several  amusing  incidents  of  the  colored  men  in  and 
around  the  camp.  One  of  them,  a  soldier,  w  as  on  guard 
at  the  City  Point  wharf.  Presently  an  officer  approached, 
smoking  a  cigar.  Politely  giving  the  military  salute  the 
dusky  sentinel  said,  “  Smoking  on  dis  dock  is  forbidden 
sah  1”  Is  that  the  rule,  asked  the  officer  ? — “  Yes  sah.”— 
“  A  very  good  rule,”  replied  General  Grant,  for  it  was  he, 

and  he  immedi.ately  threw  his  cigar  into  the  river, - 

A  happy  darkey  was  enjoyii.g  himself  perched  on  a  high 
fence  when  a  squad  of  rebel  luisoners  passed,  and 
John’s  former  master  was  among  them,  “  Why  John,” 
exclaimed  he  in'  sttrprise,“are  you  up  there  ?”  “  Yes,  inas- 

sah,”  said  John,  “  and  you’s  dow  n  dere,” - One  of  them 

was  heard  earnestly  praying  “  I.ord  bress  Massa  Lin- 
kum,  and  douse  his  head  wid  irisdom." — Another  thus 
gave  the  well  known  passage  “Paul  may  plant  and 
Apollos  water,  but  God  giveth  tlie  increase.  “  Paul  may 
plant  and  polish  wid  water,  but  it  won't  do." 

Sliei'Mlsiw  Amwwg'  liis  l§iold.icrs. 

A  gentleman  recently  from  Winchester,  Va.,  relates 
the  following  incidents  which  he  witnessed  just  after  the 
famous  battle  of  Cedar  Creek,  w  here  Sheridan  had  turned 
disaster  into  an  overwhelrnina  victory.— The  wotinded 
were  being  brought  in  and  attended  to  by  the  surgeons. 
A  soldier  w:is  having  an  arm  amputated  ;  chloroform  had 
been  atiministered  to  render  him  insensible  to  pain,  but 
he  recovered  consciousness  just  as  the  surgeon  was  saw¬ 
ing  through  the  bone.  Yet  without  seeming  to  pay  any 
attention  to  this,  he  looked  around  and  exclaimed,  “  Boys 
isn’t  Phil,  Slieriilan  a  perfect  brick  ?  Didn’t  we  give  it 
to  the  Johnny's  ?’’  and  his  eye  livtited  up  witli  the  fire  of 
victory.  Not  far  from  him  our  f  iend  noticed  two  whose 
wounds  had  been  dres.sed,  (one  had  lost  an  arm,  the  oth¬ 
er  a  leg,)  lying  face  to  face  on  a  Ijoining  cots,  earnestly 
discussing  the  events  of  the  bafic  and  praising  “Phil” 
Sheridan,  with  whom  and  for  whom  they  both  wanted  to 
fight  again.  The  same  enthusiasm  pervaded  the  entire 
hospital,  and  the  groans  of  the  -suffering  were  hushed  by 
the  e.xuiting  shouts  for  their  leader  and  their  success, 

Petroleum— Mow  E'’arm  was  Soldi. 

A  correspondent  of  the  Amenr.an  Agriculturist  gives 
an  account  of  an  instance  of  pretty  “sharp  prac¬ 
tice”  in  the  oil  region  of  Pennsylvania.  A  widow, 
who  owmed  a  farm  in  a  locality  bordering  upon,  or  rather 
within  the  botinds  of  Petrolia.  luoeured  a  barrel  of  the 
genuine  oil,  and  poured  a  ferv  gallons  upon  the  surface 
of  several  small  ponds  of  water  on  her  domain.  The 
barrel  was  then  secreted  in  some  brush  near  a  small  rivu¬ 
let,  and  a  minute  opening  was  made,  so  that  a  few  drops 
constantly  escaped,  and  floated  down  U|ion  the  surface 
of  the  water.  The  bait  soon  took  with  one  of  the  roving 
seekers  after  hidden  wealth,  who  contracted  for  the  farm, 
hastened  East,  raised  a  company,  and  returned  with 
ample  funds  to  pay  $100,000  for  the  farm,  and  to  begin 
operations.  The  widow,  of  course,  found  it  convenient 
to  immediately  change  her  residence  to  an  eastern  city. 
—The  unusual  sequel  of  the  story,  which  we  can  not 
vouch  for,  is,  that  by  chance,  this  turned  out  be  a  capital 
oil  farm,  and  is  yielding  large  returns  to  the  company. 

Answers  to  Problems  and  Puzzles. 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
January  numoer,  page  23.  No.  111.  Illustrated  Rebus. — 
Do  nought  leaves  on  g  two  birds  a  I  one  nor  bee  ewe  t  of  sol 
two  flowers ;  or  Do  not  leave  song  to  birds  alone,  nor 

beauty  of  soul  to  flowers _ No.  Ii2.  A  Curious  Word.— 

Cares ;  add  s,  and  it  makes  caress..  .No.  113.  Novel  Sub¬ 
traction. — Should  have  been  take  tivo  letters  from  a  word 
containing  five,  and  leave  but  one.  The  word  is  stone ; 
take  away  St  and  one  remains  ...No.  111. — Charles  H. 
Thorp,  sends  the  following  solution.  Ten  acres  is  a  plot 
measuring  060  feet  on  a  side.  As  no  vine  is  set  nearer 


than  one  foot  to  the  fence,  they  are  to  occupy  a  plot  638 
feet  square.  658-;-6  gives  109  spaces  between  the 
vines  or  110  vines  on  a  row,  and  110  rows  if  they 
are  set  in  square  form.  110x110  gives  12,100  vines 

for  the  plot  when  planted  in  square  oiJer. - In 

the  Quincunx  order  there  wili  be  110  vines  on  each 
row  one  way.  The  distance  between  the  rews  will  form 
the  perpendicular  of  a  right  angled  triangle  having  a 
base  of  3  ft.,  and  a  hypothenuse  of  6  ft.,  or  3  and  2  tenths 
feet,  nearly.  658-i-5.2  gives  126  spaces  or  127  rows  the 
other  way.  110X127=13,970  vines  in  Quincunx  order, 

or  1870  more  than  in  the  square _ No.  15.  Mathematical 

Problem.— 90  ft.  10  in.  and  118  ft.  5  in . No.  109.— Math¬ 

ematical  Puzzle  (Dec.  No.  page  349). — The  word  is  Palm 
erson ;  the  figures  are  587019x3624=2127356856.  The 
following  have  sent  in  correct  answers  up  to  Jan.  10. 
“Exepo,”108;  David  Dickey,  108 ;  B.  T.  Fisher,  108, 
Flora  .McKay,  108;  Austin  Leonard.  108,  109  ;  “  C.” 
Pliila.,  108  ;  I.  A.  Mitchell,  108 ;  Mary  E.  Graves,  108, 
109;  John  S.  Starbuck,  108:  H.  Hudgens,  108,  109;  Geo. 
W.  Read,  109  ;  H.  G.  Kingsleys,  108,  110 ;  J.  G.  Bunnell, 
108;  Wesley  Harvey,  108;  “R.  N.  M,”  108 ;  Charles  L, 
Gartman,  108  ;  Ezra  M.  Smith,  108,  109  ;  “  H.  P.  S.,” 
109 ;  R.  M.  Leete,  109 ;  Elias  Stevens,  109 ;  Daniel  S. 
Carver,  108  ;  Clarkson  Johnston  109  ;  E.  Bishop,  108, 
109  ;  Eliza  Gillingham,  108;  Augustine  J.  Pocock,  108: 
Philip  Lounsberry,  108  J  Madison  Santee,  108;  O.  B. 
Gibson,  109  ;  Atherton  Sweatt,  109;  H.  P.  Smith,  108; 

A.  S.  D.  Demarest,  108;  MaryLovejoy,  108;  Edward  A. 
Down,  108;  David  H.  Trenlly.  108  :  J.  C.  Browning,  109; 
Mary  N.  Rice,  108,  109;  Samuel  C.  Carter,  109  ;  C.  Ar¬ 
thur  Totten,  108,  109  ;  S.  Farqiter,  109;  Olyvia  Lybarger, 
109  ;  John  N.  McGiffert,  109  ;  F.  H.  Brown,  108 ;  “  X,  L. 
T,,”  109 ;  W.  C.  Sharpe,  109  ;  “  Grace,”  108  :  Laura  Wil¬ 
liams,  108;  Sturges  Green,  109  ;  E.  W.  Miller,  108,  109; 
Susie  Maxwell,  108 ;  R.  F.  Maxwell  and  Zachary  Tay¬ 
lor,  108;  Nellie  Robinson,  108  ;  James  W.  Logan,  108  ; 
Amelia  W.  Thompson,  108;  H,  F.  Brayton,  109;  Joseph 
Holsinger,  109:  E.J.  Davis,  108;  Robert  Schofield,  108, 
S.  H.  Grundy,  109 ;  S.  B.  Earlier,  109 ;  Joseph  Smith, 
109;  George  Tomlinson,  109  ;  Cordelia  Baker,  108 ;  Wm. 
E.  Baldwin,  108;  “  L.  S.  F.,”  108;  Sarah  and  Orpha  B,, 
108;  Clarence  U.  Meigs,  109  ;  Rufus  G.  Fuller,  108 ;  J. 

B.  Burt,  108:  D.  R.  Hosteman.  108;  H.  Zavala,  108;  J. 
S.  Burgess.  112;  Duane  W.  Wilber,  112  ;  Edm’d  P.  Bark* 
er,  109  :  J.  W.  Winans,  109,  114,  115  ;  J.  B,  Hatch,  Jr.,  112. 

New  I*iiz?5les  to  be  Answered, 

No.  116.  Historical  Questions. — 1.  What  General  took 
fhe  City  of  Dublin,  .A,  D.,  1116?  2,  On  what  day  did 
James  lake  possession  of  the  throne  of  England?  3. 
What  was  the  first  name  given  by  Europeans  to  Maine 
and  New  Hampshire  ? 

No.  117.  What  fruit  is  mentioned  in  the  Bible  as  grow¬ 
ing  on  a  stick  without  root  or  branch  ? 


No.  118.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Adapted  to  the  times. 


No.  119.  Mathematical  Problem. — Proposed  by  Chas. 
F.  Erhard,  Queens  Co.,  N.  Y.  A  race  course  forming  a 
perfect  circle  is  just  one  mile  long  along  the  centre  line 
of  the  track,  which  is  20  feet  wide.  The  enclosed  circu¬ 
lar  piece  of  ground  has  a  good  crop  of  grass,  and  this 
has  been  bought  by  3  men  paying  equal  shares.  They 
wish  to  divide  the  land  in  three  equal  parts  by  two  strait 
parallel  lines.  How  is  this  to  be  done  and  how  many 
acres  will  each  part  contain? 


No.  120.  Geographical  Rebus. — What  four  Capital 
Cities  are  represented  in  the  above  engraving? 

No.  121.  Mathematical  Problem. — Suppose  a  heifer,  at 
three  years  old,  produces  a  calf,  and  one  yearly  after¬ 
wards,  till  she  is  twenty  years  old.  Suppose  her  progeny 
to  be  females  (through  all  the  generations),  and  that  each 
imlividual  increases  as  the  mother  did,  that  is,  a  calf 
each  year,  commencing  at  the  third,  what  will  be  the 
number  of  the  herd  when  fhe  old  cow  is  twenty  years  old  ? 

No.  122.  Mathematical  Re6?is.— Contributed  to  the 
American  Agriculturist  by  “  William,”  Kirkland,  N.  Y. 
Please  lead  it  and  find  the  answer  to  the  problem. 

I  O  2  A  A  V  &  000 
OX2B&IXTUn2D 
Now  let  2-|-4=6  scholar  °  &c 
How  THE  7-|-2=9  I  O  un  2  the  3. 

No.  123  Conundrum. — Why  is  Neptune  like  an  Alcli* 
mist?  This  will  loquire  a  good  deal  of  guesslBg. 


56 


[Februahy, 


AMERICAN  AG-RICUT.TURIST. 


THE 


SHERMAN’S  RETURN.-—  Engraved  for  the  American  agriculturist. 


Our  young  friends  at  the  West  may  not  take  in  all  the 
meaning  of  tliis  beautiful  picture,  at  first  sight.  Tlie 
scene  will  be  familiar  to  tlie  boys  and  girls  in  ‘Nantucket, 
Cape  Cod.  and  all  along  shore'  away  up  to  Nova  Scotia, 
Cape  Breton  Island,  and  Newfoundland,  where  thousands 
of  the  Agriculturist  family  live.  Many  of  their  parents 
are  fisliermen.  Instead  of  wheat-fields,  meadows,  pas¬ 
tures  and  woodlands,  rich  in  grain,  cattle  and  game,  they 
love  to  plow  the  blue  fields  of  the  sea,  with  schooner  and 
sloop,  where  the  cod,  mackerel,  herring  and  their  finny 
neighbors  yield  both  sport  and  gain.  But  it  is  not  all  sport. 
No  farm  labor  is  harder  or  more  unpleasant  than  that 
performed  by  the  fisherman.  It  is  no  easy  task  to  pull  up 
a  ten  to  twenty  pound  codfish  from  seventy  feet  below 
the  surface.  The  rxculement  might  make  it  pleasant  for 
a  few  times,  but  to  keep  at  it  all  day  is  harder  than  chop¬ 
ping  wood  or  hoeing  corn  :  neither  is  it  lery  aereeable  to 
pull  the  nets  in  w  hich  the  snudler  fish  are  caught.  .\dd 
to  this  the  frepucnl  (hingers  fioin  storms,  fogs  and  ice¬ 
bergs.  and  most  boys  would  prefer  a  life  of  less  hardship. 


Those  who  are  Drought  up  to  the  business,  grow  strong 
and  hardy  enough  to  bear  the  severe  exposure  and  toil 
witliout  flinching  ;  their  frames  are  tough  as  white  oak, 
and  the  palms  of  their  htinds  as  liard  as  sole  leather. 
But  this  does  not  mtike  them  hard-hearted.  The  picture 
shows  tliis,  and  everybody,  east.  west,  nortli  or  south,  can 
understand  and  enjoy  the  affection  which  sparkles  in  the 
eyes  of  tlie  children,  and  gives  real  beauty  to  the  rugged 
face  of  tlie  fatlier. 


TTlae  Stain  obs  tBac  Cas’jsct. 

Mai-y,  an  orphan,  was  liired  by  a  lady  to  help  do  house¬ 
work.  “  I  pity  you  ”  said  a  girl  whom  she  met  coming 
from  the  door,  as  she  was  going  to  her  new  place.  “Wliy?” 
asked  Mary — “She’s  just  the  most  particular  body  you 
ever  saw.  She  turneil  me  away  only  because  I  spilled  a 
little  oil ;  but  I  wouldn’t  stay  if  I  could.”  Just  then  the 
door  opened,  and  (he  girls  separated,  one  to  look  for  a 
new  situation,  the  other  with  many  forebodings  to  com¬ 
mence  service.  The  parlor  door  was  partly  open  as 


Mary  entered  (lie  hall,  and 
she  overheard  the  lady  of  the 
house  exclaim  “If  it  wasn't 
for  servant  girls  I  might 
have  some  comfort,  I  dc 
believe  they  are  all  alike!' 
The  poor  girl’s  heart  sunk 
within  her,  but  she  immedi¬ 
ately  resolved  that  she  would 
try  and  prove  that  one  at 
least  could  be  faithful.  Dur¬ 
ing  the  morning  she  was 
sent  up  stairs  to  sweep  a 
room.  In  moving  tlie  furni¬ 
ture  she  overset  a  small 
bottle  which  had  been  care¬ 
lessly  left  near  the  edge  of  a 
table ;  it  fell  to  the  fiobr, 
broke,  and  spilled  some  ink 
on  the  carpet.  She  stood  a- 
ghast.  What  could  she  do  ? 
She  hastily  gathered  up  ihe 
pieces,  Uirew  them  out  ol 
the  window,  wiped  up  the 
ink,  and  tiien  stopped  to 
think.  ‘SI  le  won’t  see  it 
very  soon,  and  vvlien  she 
does  slie  may  tliiuk  it  was 
llie  Ollier  giil,”  was  the 
nrst  tliouglit.  “  But  you 
•lid  it,  and  you  ought  to  lell 
her  of  it,”  wlii.epered  con¬ 
science.  “  I'm  sure  slie’ll 
turn  me  away,  what  .■•hall  1 
do  ?”  “  Go  and  lell  her  ;  you 
can’t  help  tlie  slain  on  the 
carpet,  but  you  can  keep  Ihe 
stain  of  a  lie  from  your 
soul,”  said  conscience. 
“  Yes,  and  I  will,”  said  Slary 
aloud,  and  w  itliout  slopping 
to  tliiuk  furtlier,  slie  w  ent  to 
seek  the  lady  whom  slie  met 
coming  up  .stairs,  and  to 
whom  she  relaled  tlie  acci¬ 
dent.  “I  believe  I  can  trust 
you  Mary,”  was  the  reply,  so 
kindly  made,  that  the  girl 
could  not  keep  I'ack  her 
tears.  “  You  are  tlie  first 
girl  I  have  liad,”  continued 
the  lady  “wlio  would  con¬ 
fess  a  fault,  and  I  hate  de¬ 
ceit.  Try  and  be  careful,  but 
above  all,  be  truthful.”  Mary 
did  not  forget  the  lesson  ;  she 
kept  her  place  until  lier  mar¬ 
riage  several  years  after¬ 
ward,  and  found  tliat  though 
her  employer  was  strict,  yet 
she  had  no  better  friend. 
When  templed  to  untnitliful- 
ness  to  liide  a  fault,  let  our 
young  readers  remember  the 
“stain  on  the  soul,”  and 
dread  that  more  than  any 
bodily  punishment  feared. 

I^iresitle  CSames.— 

A  Phonetic  Play. — At  a 
recent  evening  gatliering  we 
saw  an  amusing  illiistialioi) 
of  the  effect  of  a  combination 
of  sounds.  Tlie  company  of 
some  twenty  or  more  was 
To  the  first  section  ■was 


divided  into  three  sections, 
given  the  syllable  Isli ;  to  tlie  second  Ask ;  and  to  ttie 
third  Osk.  At  a  signal,  (the  striking  together  of  the 
hands  of  tlie  leader,  after  counting  three,)  each  division 
pronounced  its  syllable  in  a  loud  voice,  so  tliat  the  tliree 
syllables  were  uttered  at  the  same  instant.  The  result 
was  a  sound  like  a  tremendous  sneeze  by  one  person. 

The  Gossip’s  Surprise. — This  game  is  best  played  by 
a  large  company,  but  it  will  afford  amusement  to  eight  or 
ten.  The  leader  whispers  a  short  story,  in  the  ear  of  his 
next  neighbor,  containing  as  many  different  particulars 
as  possible.  The  one  who  heard  llie  story  now  repeats  it 
(in  a  whisper  as  before,)  to  his  neighboi,  aiming  to 
tell  it  correctly,  but  in  different  words;  and  so  it  Is 
passed  around  the  entire  company.  The  last  one  who 
heard  it  llien  repeats  it  aloud,  after  which  the  leader 
gives  tlie  story  as  he  started  it.  The  strange  differences 
which  sometimes  appe.ar,  sliow  how  careful  every  per¬ 
son  should  be  in  reporting  what  lie  lias  heai'(.l,  particu¬ 
larly  if  it  is  calcuiiucd  to  injure  tlie  cliAroacter  of  anothep. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


57 


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Rocliester.  W.  V. 


saved  by  the  most  successful  European  cultivators,  contain¬ 
ing  only  tlie  most  beautiful  varieties  in  packages,  in  which 
are  enclosed  four,  six,  eight,  ten  or  more  separate  papep, 
c,ach  containing  seeds  of  a  diffeient  color  or  variety  ol  the 
same  plant. 

French  and  German  Asters,  Rose  and  Camellia  flowered 
Balsams,  German,  Ten  Week,  Intermediate  and  Brompton 
Stocks.  Larkspur,  Alpine  Plants,  Diantlius,  Everlasting  Flow¬ 
ers,  Hollvhocks,  Ipomea,  Jacobca,  Lupins,  Marvel  of  Peru, 
Nemonhila,  Ornamental  Grasses,  Ornamental  Gourds,  Portu- 
lacca.  Petunias,  Scliizanthus,  Pansies,  Scahiosa,  Tropoeolura, 
Wallflowers,  &c.,  &c. 

Among  the  improved  varieties  of  Florists’  Flowers,  the 
quality  of  the  following  cannot  be  surpassed :  Auricula,  Cin¬ 
eraria,  Calceolaria,  Cockscomb,  Carnation  and  Picotee 
Pinks,  Fuchsias,  Geraniums,  Gladiolus,  Gloxinia.  Mimulus, 
Englisli  and  New  Fancy  Pansies,  Polyanthus,  Petunias,  Clii- 
nese  Primrose,  Stocks,  Perfection  and  Auricula  flowered 
Sv^eet  Williams.  &c.,  &c. 

All  of  the  seeds  named  In  the  Catalo.gue  will  be  mailed 
post-paid  to  any  address  in  the  loyal  States,  upon  receipt  of 
the  price  affixed. 

The  Eleventh  Edition  of  his  celebrated  Seed  Cata- 
LOOHE  and  Guide  to  the  Flowek  and  Kitchen  Gakden, 
beautifully  illustrated,  will  be  mailed  to  all  applicants  en¬ 
closing  25  cents.  Address  as  above. 


Choice  Seed. 


Witli  the  return  of  another  season  I  would  invite  tlie  at¬ 
tention  of  the  public  to  my  Annual  Catalogue  of  relmble 
Garden  Seed,  including  over  200  varieties,  many  of  whicli  are 
of  my  own  raising.  I  would  call  particular  attention  to  the 
following  list  of  new,  rare  or  very  desirable  vegetables  : 
Cannon  Ball  Cabbage  (new,  early,  the  beads  are  as  round 
and  about  as  hard  as  a  cannon  ball)  ;  Marblehead  .Mammoth 
Drumtiead  Cabbage  (the  largest  in  the  world)— Stone  Mason 
Cabbage  (the  best  of  all  winter  cabbages,  put  up  in  liall  oz. 
packages,  and  sold  by  th®  pound  if  desired)— Learmand’s 
Mammoth  Cauliflower  (the  largest  of  all ;— Mammoth 
Frencli  Squash  (weiglis  from  100  to  260  lbs.)— Mammoth 
Sweet  Corn  (the  largest  sort  known,  selected  from  ears 
weighln"  from  two  to  three  pounds,  very  sweet,  excellent 
for  the  table)— Yokohoma  Squash  (new  from  Japan)— Amer¬ 
ican  Turban  Squash  (new,  the  dryest,  sweetest  and  best  ol  all 
fall  squashes,  first  rate)— Striped  Gaudaloupe  Egg  Phmt 
(quite  oruamental)— New  York  extra  large  purple  Egg 
Plant  (the  largest  of  all  varieties)— Ornamental  Kale  (several 
varieties  in  one  packago  ;  tine  for  either  the  flower  or  kitch¬ 
en  garden)— Pierce’s  Americ<an  CauMllower  (tlie  standard 
-ate  sort  in  Boston  Market)— Early  Paris  Cauliflower  (im¬ 
ported  seed,  tlie  best  early  sort)— Waite’s  New  Alma  Cauli¬ 
flower  (a  popular  new  English  variety)- Early  Wliite  Japan 
Melon  (new,  very  sweet,  tine)— 'Ward’s  Nectar  Melon  (the 
sweetest,  spiciest,  best  of  all  tlie  green  fleslied  varieties)- 
Caterpillar  Plant  (a  curious  vegetable  -,  several  varieties  m 
one  package)— 'Vegetable  Snails  (anotlier  natural  curiosity). 
Each  of  tlic  above  at  25  cents  per  pack, age.  Forty  Days’ 
C®rn  (extra  early,  about  10  days  earlier  than  Darling  s 
Early)— Mexican  Sweet  Corn  (tlie  sweetest  of  all  varieties  of 
table  corn)— Golden  Sweet  Corn  (an  early,  prolific,  sweet 
table  corn,  of  a  briglit  golden  color,  fine)- Hubbard  Squash 

M  .  .....  _  .  X  2 ....... A  .1  f 


Seed  (true ;  1  introduced  this)— Cow  or  Tree  Cabbage  (for 
Btock)—Yard  Long  Bean— Extra  Early  York  Tomato  (very 
earls’,  very  prolific,  of  good  size  and  excellent  quality)- 
Cook's  Favorite  Tomato  (a  very  early  apple  tomato,  prolific, 
of  excellent  quality)- Yellow  Lupins  (the  plant  so  highly  re¬ 
commended  for  subsoiling  in  a  recent  Patent  Office  Report 
—also  liigbly  ornamental)— Tom  Thumb  Pea  (very  early, 
grows  10  inches  high,  very  productive)— Dresv’s  New  Dwarf 


new  variety  which  may  he  relied  upon,  as  both  the  earliest 
and  most  dwarf  Marrowfat  grown ;  very  prollUc)— Improved 
Lon"  Green  Cucumber-Six  finest  varieties  of  Cabbage  Lettuce 
In  one  package.  True  Boston  Curled  Lettuce  (the  most  elegant 
of  all,  quality  good)— Ornamental  Gourds  (many  varieties  in 
one  package— Spotted  Sieva  Bean,  Concord  Bean  (a  new  pole 
bean,  remarkably  early,  quality  first-rate)— Extra  Flat  Beet 
(new  very  early,  about  as  flat  as  a  turnip,  quality  excellent) 
—Chick  Peas  (two  sort  mixed;  extensively  used  in  Europe  as 
a  substitute  for  coU'ee)- Chinese  Sugar  Cane  (imported  seed) 
New  Jersey  Hybrid  Cucumber  (one  of  the  largest  and  best 
varieties  cultivated)— Lester’s  Perfected  Tomato  (very  larjje 
and  thick  meated)— Sutton's  Student  Parsnip  (new,  recently 
originated  in  England,  desirable)— Cliiiiese  Rose  Winter 
Radlsli  (decidedly  tlie  best  of  all  the  winter  sort,  an  acquisi¬ 
tion)— Hood’s  Dwarf  Imperial  Purple  Celery  (new,  superior) 
—Indian  Chief  Bean  (a  pole  bean  ;  can  be  used  as  a  string 
beau  much  better  tlian  any  other  variety ;  very  productive.) 
—Each  of  tlie  above  at  15  cents  per  package.  Catalogues 
Bent  gratis  to  all.  Those  who  received  it  last  season  will  re¬ 
ceive  it  this  without  writing  for  it.  _ „„„„ 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY, 
Marblehead,  Massachusetts. 


WANTED. — A  competent  person  to  take  charge 
of  an  establlslied  nursery.  Must  have  a  thorough 
Knowledge  of  the  business  in  all  its  brandies,  including  man¬ 
agement  of  green  and  propagating  liouses.  Also,  wanted,  a 
responsible  traveling  agent:  one  wlio  lias  Iiad  some  experi¬ 
ence  p  rrferred.  Aflclress  “NURSERY',” 'Wilmington,  Del. 


New- York. 

Trade  Catalogue  lor  B>ealers  only, 

is  also  ready. 


Our  stock  of  plants  this  season  is  the  largest  and  best  we 
have  ever  oifered,  and  includes  the  : 

AGRICULTURIST.  For  which  we  paid  Mr.  Judd  the 
highest  price  ever  paid  for  a  Strawberry. 
GOLDEN  SEEDED.  The  best  early. 

RUSSELL.  Very  good  and  enormously  productive. 
FILLMORE. 

BUFFALO. 

FRENCH’S  SEEDLING.  Very  popular  at  Phllad’a. 
BRITISH  Q,UEE.N.  Large,  and  of  fine  flavor. 
TROLLOPE’S  VICTORIA.  Late,  and  very  good. 
TRIOMPHE  DE  GAND.  Invaluable  with  us. 
"WILSON’S  ALBANY.  The  best  for  canning. 

And  all  the  old  and  new  varieties  of  any  merit. 

Send  for  circular  giving  all  desired  information. 

J.  KNOX. 

Box  155,  Pittshurgli,  Pa. 

CJ  A  P  E  8 .  ' 

"We  have  a  very  large  and  superior  stock  of  vines,  grown  in 
the  open  air  from  the  best  hearing  wood,  mostly  taken  from 
our  own  vineyard,  including  : 

CONCORD.  The  very  best  for  table  and  market. 
DELAWARE.  The  best  for  wine. 

DIANA.  The  best  keeper,  good  for  wine  and  the  table. 
HARTFORD  PROLIFIC.  The  most  profitable, 

very  early. 

CKEVELING.  Early,  and  of  excellent  quality. 
UNIO.V  VILLAGE.  Enormously  large,  oeautifm.  and 
of  Isabella  flavor. 

HERBEMONT.  Wine  and  t.ahle,  very  good. 
ELSINGBURGH. 

ADIRONDAC. 

IONA. 

ISRAELLA. 

And  all  other  desirable  kinds. 

ALSO 

Steawbekut,  Kaspbekky,  Blackbkery,  Cukeant,  and 
Goosebebky  plants,  &c„  &c. 

Send  for  Circular,  enclosing  stamp. 

J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 

GREAT 

AGRICULTURIST  STRAWBERRY 

1  am  now  prepared  to  take  orders  for  this  remarkable  va¬ 
riety,  having  a  large  stock  of  very  fine  plants.  For  further 
particulars  see  January  Agriculturist.  Plants  delivered  in 
rotation  as  ordered,  at  the  following  rates :  2  plants,  $1.20 ; 
6  plants,  $3;  1’2  plants,  $5 ;  100  plants,  $25:  1,000  plants,  $200. 
All  orders  addressed  to  WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

329  Creeuwich-st.,  New  Y'ork. 


Early  Vegetable  Seeds  for 
Mot  Meds. 

The  following  seeds  for  early  sowing  will  be  mailed  post 
paid  to  any  address  in  tlie  Union  upon  receipt  of  tlie  price 
affixed : 

Per  Oz.  4  Oz. 

Cabbage,  Early  York,  Large  York . $  25  $  75 

Cauliflowers.  H.alf  Early  Paris,  packet.  25 .  2  00  6  00 

Cucumber,  Extra  Early  Russian .  ..  .  25  75 

“  English  and  German  Frame  Varieties  p’k’t.  25 

Egg  Plant,  Improved  Large  Purple .  75  2  25 

Lettuce,  Early  Curled  Silesian :  Butter  Salad .  25  75 

Radish,  Early  Scarlet.  Olive  sh.aped .  15  45 

Pepper,  Large  Sweet  Mountain,  Sp.anisii .  50  150 

Tomato,  Extra  Early :  Early  Apple .  30  1  00 

“  Lester’s  Perfected ;  Favorite,  p’k’t. .  W 

“  New  Erect  French,  grows  upright  like  a 
bush :  flue  flavored,  very  oruamental 

p’k’t .  10 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfleld,  Mass. 


Seed  Catalogue  for  1865, 

My  Seed  Catalogue,  embracing  over  '200  varieties  of  fresh 
garden  seed,  many  of  wliicli  are  of  mv  own  growing,  will  bo 
mailed  free  to  ail  applicants.  Tliosewlio  piifchased  seed  last 
season  will  receive  it  this  season  williout  writing  for  it.  As 
tlie  original  introducer  of  the  Hulihard  Squash,  Marblehead 
Mainmotli  Cabbage,  &c.,  &c.,  I  invite  tlie  patronage  of  tha 
public  JAMES  J.  H.  CIIECORY, 

Marblehead,  Mass. 


Vines  al  Wholesale  Mates  to 
Cliibs. 

Propositions  for  the  formation  of  clubs,  by  which  ail  can 
obtain  vines  at  wholesale  prices,  with  other  advantages,  will 
be  sent  for  a  stamp.  The  propositions  may  accompany  tha 
price  list  and  twenty-four  page  pamplilet)  or  any  of  the  cata¬ 
logues,  without  cost  of  stamp;  and  I  would  invite  the  atten¬ 
tion  of  every  purcliascr  to  tliem  for  tlielr  great  advantages. 

The  excellence  and  importance  of  tlie  new  kinds,  Iona  and 
Israella,  are  now  so  well  understood  and  appreciated  thai 
there  is  but  one  voice  in  regard  to  them,  and  tnat  of  earnest, 
entliusiastic  praise  from  airquarters  wliere  they  are  known. 

Tliese  can  lie  very  clieaply  obtained  by  clubs  wlio  buy  not 
less  than  fifty  of  tlie  vines.  Early  orders  are  necessary  to 
secure  the  best  plants. 

ENCllAVINCS  OF  THE  IONA. 

A  limited  number  of  fine  litliograpliic  colored  engraving! 
of  the  Iona  Crape  liave  been  prepared  at  groat  cost,  by  aa 
eminent  artist,  wliicli  exceed  in  trntli  and  beauty  anything 
of  the  kind  tliat  lias  been  produced  williin  our  knowled.ge,  in 
any  country:  greatly  surpassing  tliose  of  the  celebrated 
French  artists,  Crobon  and  Poiteau,  in  tlie  brilliance  and 
delicacy  of  their  coloring,  by  wliich  tlie  transparency  and 
iridescent  play  ofliglit  is  represented.  As  a  work  of  art,  it 
is  wortliy  of  a  place  in  any  portfolio,  or  of  an  elegant  frame 
for  the  walls  of  tlie  library  nr  parlor. 

Tliese  engravings  are  furnislied  onlv  as  premiums  with 
Iona  vines.  For  particulars  see  propositions  to  clubs.  As  our 
artist  was  able  to  complete  but  a  limited  number,  we  can  not 
agree  to  furnish  tliem  tlirongliout  tlie  entire  season.  All  who 
are  desirous  of  seem  ing  tliein  to  aid  in  canvassing  will  do 
well  to  send  an  early  remittance,  according  to  one  of  tlie 
“  special  propositions.” 

Has  the  eai-.ly  kipentnq  of  the  Iona  and  Israella 
Grapes  been  obtai.ned  by  any  forcing  appliances  or 
by  any  other  jiea.ns  than  that  of  ordinary  cultiva¬ 
tion  IN  garden  or  vineyard? 

A  communication  has  appeared  in  the  OhioFarnier,  signed 
“Peeonic,"  but  acknowledged  by  Mr.  H.  P.  Bvrani,  and  an- 
otlier  in  tlie  American  AgricuUnrlst,  in  wliicli  he  states  that 
“to  Ids  own  personal  knowledge  the  early  ripening  of  both 
tliese  kinds  is  obtained  by  a  forcing  process,  by  winch  their 
maturity  is  hastened  by  tliree  weeks.”  After  having  been 
sliown  tliat  his  statements  were  utterly  false  in  every  partic¬ 
ular,  lie  persisted  in  refusing  to  make  any  retraction,  and  I 
found  mj’self  under  the  painful  necessity  of  prosecuting  liim 
for  both  comiminicatioiis.  I  would  liere  state  that  both  ot 
tliese  kinds  have  always  been  grown  in  full  exposure  in  tlie 
open  ground  and  in  the  ordinary  manner,  without  any  forc¬ 
ing  appliances  wliatever.  They  have  always  been  open  a* 
all  seasons,  and  at  every  stage  of  growth,  and  continue  to  be, 
to  the  inspection  of  all  that  desire  to  see  tliem.  For  a  full 
account  of  the  whole  treatment  and  management  of  every 
one  of  tliese  vines  on  tlie  Island,  witli  two  engravings,  send 
stamp. 

For  Club  Propositions  send  two  cent  st.amp. 

For  Price  List  and  accompanying  Twenty-four  page 
Pamphlet  send  two-cent  stamp.  Tliis  contains  a  description 
of  the  stock  of  Vines  for  sale  at  Iona,  with  some  account  of 
our  four  best  liardy  kinds,  witli  a  very  valuable  Cliapter  en¬ 
titled,  “"Wliat  Kinds  to  Plant;  or.  Crapes  for  Family  and 
Dessert,”  by  Mr.  Mead.  It  states  cic.ariy  the  distinctive  ad¬ 
vantages  of  the  Israella,  and  also  those  of  tlie  Iona,  and  its 
superiority  over  every  othar  native  grape,  and  gives  tlie  full 
history  of  the  manner  in  wliich  they  were  produced  ;  in 
wliich  will  be  found  hints  for  tlie  production  of  seedlings  in 
general,  and  of  grapes  in  particular.  It  contains  also  a  fail 
account  of  tlie  management  of  all  of  those  vines  from  their 
first  hearing  to  tlie  present  time,  witli  full  tables  of  contents 
of  the  Descriptive  and  Illustrated  Cat.alogues. 

Tlie  Descriptive  Catalogue  is  sent  for  ten  cents,  and  the 
Illustrated  for  twenty-five  cents. 

These  two  bound  together  in  flexible  paper-covers,  and 
called  “Manual  of  the  Vine.”  are  sent  for  fifty  cents. 

The  Descriptive  exhibits  the  principles  and  general  consid¬ 
erations  which  form  the  basis  upon  which  Cr.ape-cnlture  is 
to  be  successfully  conducted,  and  is  illustrated  with  many 
very  fine  and  life-like  Enaravings.  It  also  contains  full  and 
accurate  descriptions  of  all  our  native  kinds  that  are  worthy 
of  notice,  with  a  clear  representation  of  their  relative  value 
with  a  chapter  ou  “  Wine  Making."  Also  a  lecture  by  Mr. 
Mead. 

The  Illustrated  (eighth  edition)  treats  thoroughly  of  pratr 
tice  and  of  practical  results,  illustrated  with  about  eiglity  en¬ 
gravings.  The  two  togetlier  constitute  tlie  most  tliorougli, 
practical  and  comprehensive  treatise  on  the  Vine  in  tlie  lan¬ 
guage.  The  conditions  of  the  full  measure  of  success  are 
clearly  stated,  and  the  precise  manner  of  performing  every 
operation  is  so  clearly  shown  as  to  he  easily  Intellipble  to 
every  reader.  C.  W.  GRANT, 

Iona  (near  Peekskill),  WesttiMster  Co.  N.  T 


68 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[Februart, 


■DANE’S  PDRCHASISG  AGENCY. 

HARVEY  B.  LANE, 

151  Nassau-street,  New  York. 

Frcsli  Onion  §eed. 

Extra  Conn.  Seed  I.eaf  Tobacco  Seeds. 
Choicest  Garden  and  Flower  Seeds. 


Fainllj'  Size  $12. 


Hi  rdy  Fruit  for  the  North  West ! 

TVi  jld  yon  lenrnthe  hardy,  early  hearins:.  most  prodiietive 
sorts  'f  frnlt,  how  to  plant ;  also  the  hardy  Ornamental  Trees 
andtlrnhs  as  tested  in  23  years’ nnrserymi  at  thettestj' 
Send!'  red  stamps  for  the  n86h)  Catalosnes  of  the  Illoomin^- 
ton  N  irsery— 13th  year,  220  aeres  of  h  rnit,  Ornainental  and 
Nar^ry  Stmtk— Root  Grafts,  Stocks,  Cnttinis,  Scions,  Fresh 
Apple  ($S  nO  hnsh),  and  Pear  Seeds  ($3  50  it.),  Green-house, 
Garden  and  Bedding  Plants. 

Annie  and  Pear  Trees,  Bwarf  and  Standard,  an  jm- 
m^se  Stock,  Plum,  Cherry,  Peach,  Apricot,  Nectarine, 
Small  Fiuits. 

Gravies.— 15  acres,  includink  Adirondac.  Iona,  Israella, 
Crevelirc.  Allen’s  Hybrid,  7  of  Roiers’ Hyhrids,  ^prton3 
Virkinia  Union  Village,  Hartford  Prolific,  with  snperh  hear- 
In"  laveVs  of  DeUirare  and  Concord,  1  year  Catawba  per 
1,000.  'Kntly  l.iclimond  and  Osage  Orange  in  moderate  sup¬ 
ply. 

Eversi.'reens.--20  acres  mostly  medium  and  small  sizes. 
Ornameiitiil  Trees  and  Shrubs.  Roses— Over  4  acres  of 
over  400  sorts,  manv  very  new— few  better  -stoeks  and  collec¬ 
tions.  Dahlias,  Pliiov,  Chrysanthemums.  Gladiolus,  Lilies, 
&c.  Five  large  Green-hoiuios  witli  Iraines  covering  over  10.000 
square  feet  of  glass  are  used 

Packing  by  all  routes  caiefullv  done  m  moss. 

Prices  reasoi.atde.  Termu  casli.  ounrsTr-v 

BLOOMt.VG'roN-,  III. _ F.  K,  PHCEXTX. 

30,000  CONCORD  GRAPE  VINES. 

No.  1,  One  Tear  old,  $10  per  100 ;  or  $90  per  1000. 

“  2,  $S  per  100;  or  $70  per  1000. 

2  Year  old.  $10  per  100;  or  $180  per  1000. 

Delaware  Grape  Vine  Layei  s,  $6  per  doz. 

Union  Village,  $6  per  doz. 

KOGlBItS’  UIYBKttWS. 

No.’s  4,  15  and  19,  we  have  fruited  the  past  3  years,  and 
they  have  done  finely. 

We  have  also  No.’s  1,  3,  33.  SO.  Price  $9  per  doz. 

GEO.  SEYMOUR  &  CO., 

South  Worwalls,  Conn. 


Evergreens!  Evergreens ! 

"We  lihve  an  immense  stock  of  Norway  Spruce,  Balsam 
Firs,  ScoTcn  and  Austrian  Bines,  American  Arbor  Vi- 
(White  Cedar),  Siberian  Arbor  Vital  &g.,  &c.,  from 
email  to  large  sizes.  All  have  been  transplanted  once,  and 
Uie  larger  sizes  two  to  TniiB^E  times  hi  the  nurser)^  so  that 
Buccess  is  ensured  in  planting.  They  are  offered  at  low 
BATES  per  doz.,  per  100,  or  per  1,000,  and  prices  will  be  given, 
packed  in  a  superior  raanucr  delivered  at  Depot  in  Uoches- 
ter,  or  otherwise.  FBOST  &  CO., 

Rochester,  N.  Y. 


CopartiiersMp  Notice. 

The  undersigned,  have  this  day  entered  into  a  Copartner¬ 
ship,  under  the  name  and  firm  of  BliILL  &  IvU.MKRLE,  for 
the  purpose  of  carrying  on  a  Genciu.l  Seed  and  Nursery 
Business,  in  tlie  estahlisiiment  formeily  conducted  by  tlie 
late  Geo.  C.  Tliorbnrn.  Seed  Store  und  'Wareliouse,  153 
Broad-st.,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 

FRiNCIS  BFJLL, 
Seedgrower  i.nd  Nurseryman, 
JOHN  U.  KUMEl.LE.  Seedsman, 
formerly  with  the  hat  J  Geo.  C.  Tliorhurn. 

Address  orders  for  Catalogueii,  S:c.,  ss  above. 


Seeds !  Seeds ! !  Seeds ! ! ! 

Catalogues  of  GEIVUIIVE  Garden,  Field,  and 
Flower  Seeds,  tXlc.,  Fruit  and  Ornamental 
Trees,  Shrubs,  Vines,  STRAWBERRY  Plants, 
&c.,  &o.,  furnislicd  free  to  ail  applicants.  Address 

BHILL  &  KUMKllLE,  Seedsmkn,  &c., 

1.53  Broad-st.,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 

SIHEOJS  FOI?.  1S03. 

Our  stock  of  Seeds  for  1355,  c.arefuny  grown  expressly  for 
our  trade,  embracing  all  the  valuable  varieties  of  Vegetable, 
Flower,  Fruit  and  Ornamental  Tree  Seeds,  is  now  nearly 
complete,  and  all  orders  will  be  promptly  and  faithfully  at¬ 
tended  to.  H.  H,  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  IVatcr-st,  New-York. 

”  SKEOs;: 

The  snhscrlher  has  now  In  store,  his  usual  supply  ol  fresh 
»ad  genuine  GARDEN  VEGETABLE,  FIELD 
AND  FLOWER  SEEDS. 

New  priced  C.atalogues,  on  application. 

ALFItEU  BP.IDGKMAN, 

No  87G  Broadway,  New  York  City. 


20 


BUSHELS  OF  PRIME 

tlie  growtii  of  1854.  for  sale  at  $5  per  liiisliel. 

JAMES  A.  ItOOT,  Skaneatcle.3,  N.  T. 


BEDS  OF  ALL  KINDS  BY  MAIL.  B.  M. 

WATSON,  Old  C(  lony  ti  urscriOB,  Plymouth,  Mase. 


Connecticut  Seed  Leaf  Tobacco  Seed. 

Be  sure  and  get  tlie  Best. 

A  superior  lot  raised  expressly  for  the  suliscriber  by  one 
of  tlie  most  successful  cultivators  in  the  Valley  of  the  Con¬ 
necticut.— Packets  with  fi/H  dlrectiona  for  culture,  curing, 
packing,  <fic.,  will  he  mailed,  post-paid,  to  .all  applicants  at 
tlie  following  rates;  1  ounce,  59  cents;  4  ounces.  $1.50  ;  1 
pound,  $5.  Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


^  Choice  Tomato  §eeds.  g 

’•  The  Cooks  Favokite,”  very  solid,  smooth,  good  for  early 
or  late  use,  25  cts.  per  paper,  also  Extra  Early,  Fejee 
Island  ;  and  Dwarf  or  Tree  Tomato  Seeds,  each  10  cts.  per 

gaper.  For  a  full  list  of  Vegetaule  and  FLOfVER  Seeds, 
ee  Dreek’s  Garden  Calendar  for  1865,  now  published 
and  forwarded  on  receipt  of  a  postage  stamp. 

HENKY  a.  DliEEi:,  Serdsman. 

714  Chestnut-st.,  Pliila.,  Pa. 


<Goodricli’s  Wcw  Seedling  Potatoes. 

I  sh<all  send  ont  In  early  Spring  for  the  late  Rev.  Channeey 
K.  (loodrich’s  family  the  three  new  var.iet.ies.  tlie  Goodrich 
Calico,  the  Earlv  Goodrich,  and  -the  Gleason.  The  first  two 
will  be  sold  at  S1..50  per  peck  each,  or  $5  per  bushel,  while 
the  Gleason  will  he  per  peck.  Cash  orders  will  be  filed 
and  filled  strictly  in  the  order  received  until  the  limited  stock 
of  tubers  is  exhausted,  when  tire  public  will  be  informed. 
No  charge  for  package  nor  cartage. 

D.  S.  HEFFRON,  Agent,  Utica,  N.  Y. 

WANTED— Every  reader  of  this  paper  who 
owns  a  farm  or  garden  to  trv  Goodrich's  Seedling  Po¬ 
tatoes  this  year.  Reports  from  Mafne  to  Wisconsin  this  sea¬ 
son  fully  confirm  all  claimed  for  them  in  last  vol.,  page  100. 
All  who  want  good  table  potatoes,  hardy  and  productive 
sliould  try  them.  4  lb.  jiackages  by  mail.  A  cheap  and 
PAYING  investment;  avoids  exorbitant  express  and  freight 
charges  and  delays.  For  circulars  of  terms,  testimonials, 
&c,,  apply  immediately  to  E.  WILLIAMS,  Mont  Clair,  N.  J. 


Mew  Crop  Seed. 

The  following  varieties  will  be  mailed,  post-paid,  during 
the  month  of  February,  upon  receipt  of  the  price  affixed: 

Per  Oz,  4  Oz.  Pourd. 

Yellow  Danvers  Onion .  50  cts.  $1  75  $0  00 

Yellow  Dutch  Onion  . 45  1  .50  5  00 

Red ‘Wethersfield .  45  1  50  5  00 

Address  D.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Fraiit  and  Tree  Seeds. 

Pear  Seeds  $3.50  per  lb.  Norway  Spruce,  $1.50  per  lb.,  and 
many  others.  See  Catalogue  gratis. 

THOMAS  MEEHAN.  Germantown,  Pa. 

Flower  seeds  by  mail.— The  subscriber 

raises  about  one  lumdred  kinds  of  Flower  Seeds,  select¬ 
ed  from  over  one  tliousand  v.arieties,  of  the  most  sliowy  and 
attractive.  He  will  furnlsli,  neatly  put  up,  any  32  kinds  on 
tlie  list  for  $1,  and  send  hv  mail,  with  postage  prepaid. 

G.  li.  GAIiP.ETSON.  Flushing,  N.  Y. 

By  mail.  Tlic  New  Strawberries,  Grapes, 
Currants,  &e. 

Priced  descriptive  list  fvill  he  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  lilass. 

Five  llisndred  Thousand 

cranberry  plants, 

for  sale  hv  GEO.  A.  BATES,  Bellingham.  Norfolk  Co.,  M.ass. 
Send  for  Ciiculai-  on  the  Cranberry  Culture. 

CtRANBERRY  PLANTS  in  great  variety,  send 

''for  Circular.  2,000  Concord  grape  vines  1  to  4  years, 
strong  bearing  vines.  Grafting  Wax  in  I,  ><  and  K  Ih.  liolls, 
for  retailing."  a  superior  article  prepared  by  F.  TKOW- 
BIIIDGE,  Milford,  Conn. 

The  true  cape  cod  cranberry  for 

Spring  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  culture,  and  for 
swamps.  Linder  niy  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  bushels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  witli  prices  of  plants,  avith  nursery 
catalogue  comiilete,  will  be  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON.  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 

STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  sale.  Five  of  tlie 

'best  varieties  of  plants  for  cultivation,  viz. ;  ItnsselTs  Pro¬ 
lific  and  Bnflalo  Seedling  at  $2  per  100;  French’s  Seedling 
at  $5  per  1,000;  Cutters  Seedling  and  Downer’s  Prolific  at  $3 
per  1,000.  Also  other  varieties  at  reduced  prices. 

For  sale  by 

THOS.  C.  ANDREWS, 
Moore.stown,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J. 

,ft  GENTS  TVANTED  for  sale  of  Trees,  Plants  and 

-r  Ixseeds,  in  all  the  loy.al  States  B.  M.  WATSON, 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 

My  SMALL  FRUIT  CATALOGUE  contains  a 
description  and  price  list  of  varieties,  and  instruction 
for  growing  strawberries,  &e..  &c.  Send  for  a  copy. 

A.  M.  PURDY,  South  Bend,  Indiana. 

^AVEET  POTATO  SEED.— Improved  Nansemond 
i^Seed  potatoes  for  sale  in  lots  to  suit  purchasers.  J.  C. 
THOMPSON,  Tompkinsville,  (Staten  Island)  N.  Y. 


w 


lAVARF  BROOM  CORN  SEED.— I  will  send 

the  genuine  Dwarf  Broom  corn  seed,  post-paid,  at  the 
following  rates.  M  Ih.  50c.,  1'4  Ihs.  $1,  5  Ids.  $3,  10  lbs. 
ELIAS  REED,  Waterville,  Lucas  Co.,  Ohio. 

CtREVELING  VINES!  6000  first  qii.ality,  one 

'year  old,  $5  per  doz.;  $30  per  100,  $250  per  1000  ;  5000  2nd 
qualitv,  $20  per  100 ;  $175  per  1000,  for  spring  of  180.5. 

F.  F.  MEKCERON,  Catawlssa,  Pa. 

Dwarf  broom  corn  seed  for  sale.— 

Warranted  a  pure  article.  Address  W.  HARKER. 

Macomb,  Macdonough  Co.,  lUtnols, 


Onions  and  How  to  Raise  Them. 

What  soil  is  best;  how  to  prepare  it ;  how  to  manure  It ; 
how  to  tell  good  seed  from  had;  liow  to  plant  it ;  how  to 
grow  onions  from  seed,  potato  onions,  onion  setts,  shallots 
and  top  onions  ;  when  to  pull  onions;  how  to  store  them  • 
how  to  prepare  for  market,  and  when  and  where  most  profit¬ 
able  to  market  them  ;  what  onions  to  select  for  seed,  and 
how  to  grow  it,  and  a  hundred  minute  details  so  valuable  to 
beginners,  with  many  facts  relative  to  peculiarities  of  onion 
raising  in  the  Southern,  Eastern  and  Western  States  of  value 
to  old  growers.  Illustrated  with  original  ensrravings  of  the 
“Dave  Warren”  Onion.  Early  Crocker  Onion  (new),  Bed 
Wethersfield  and  Potato  Onion,  Sowing  and  Weeding  ^fa* 
chines.  In  paper  covers,  forwarded  by  mail,  prepaid  by 
tlie  subscriber  at  30  cents  each.  Seedsmen  and  Booksellers 
supplied  at  wholesale  rates,  JAMES  J.  H.  GUEGORY, 
Seedsman,  Marblehead,  Mass. 

STRAWBERRIES. — The  favorable  weather  last 

^  autumn  enables  me  to  offer  plants  of  fine  quality  at 
prices  that  cannot  fail  to  give  satisfaction.  Also  Grapes,  Cur 
rants,  liasphcrries.  &c.  Tlie  Lindlev  Raspberry  is  haudy 
PRODUCTIVE,  EXCELLENT  aiid  VERY  PROMISING.  Fine  plant* 
by  the  dozen  or  100.  For  prices,  etc.,  address 

E.  WILLIAMS,  Montclair,  New  Jersey. 

^TRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  a'cneral  Cultivation. 
^  Ten  of  the  best  varieties  for  sale  at  the  lowest  rates. 
Price  list  sent  free  to  all  applicants.  ‘Varieties  warranted 
true  to  name.  JOHN  S.  COLLINS, 

Moorestown,  Burlington  Co.,  N,  J, 

of  fiSae  Wliite 

Willow,  for  sale  at  low  rates  in  large  or  small  quan¬ 
tities.  Address  M.  ALLEN,  “The  Willows,” 

]\Iendota,  Illinois. 

«>  FiaiJlT  «,;B60WEBaS.— The  Gothic 

Fruit  Box  Company  invite  attention  of  Fruit  growers 
to  their  Patent  Fruit  Box,  on  Exhibition  at  the  Office  of  the 
Agi-iculturist.  For  Circulars,  giving  full  description  and 
prices,  Address  H.  B.  LANE,  151  Nass.au-st., 

New-York  City. 

The  Best  and  Cheapest  Farming 

LANDS  IN  THE  WHOLE  WEST,  ARE  THOSE  OF 
NORTHERN  MISSOURI. 

Rebels  are  moving  away  and  are  selling  for  whatever  they 
can  get.  An  extensive  immigration  from  the  Northern 
States  and  from  Europe  already  begun,  will  soon  occupy  that 
partoftiie  State  and  develop  its'immense  natural  wealth. 
Free  and  full  information  civen  on  application  to 
_ ELI  TH-iYEK,  1  Park  Place,  New-York. 

F  ®  M  S  A  ff J  E .  ■ 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  the  line  of  the  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-York  and  Pliiladelphia,  at  $10  per  acre. 
In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm,  these  lands 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet  potatoes,  peach¬ 
es,  grapes,  tobacco  and  lw)ps.  All  crops  ripen  ten  days  ear¬ 
lier  than  on  Long  Island.  Squankum  marl  is  delivered  at 
any  point  on  the  railroad  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per 
ton,  and  fertilizes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  applica¬ 
tion,  The  lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber, 
suitable  for  lumber  and  cord  wood,  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  off.  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
conta'in  a  large  quantity  of  the  best  potters"  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  the  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  verv  healthy  and 
watcrexcellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfmling streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man 
ufacturing  purposes.  The  whole  purchase  money  may  re¬ 
main  on  mortgage  for  a  term  of  years  if  desired,  if  the  pur¬ 
chaser  cultivates  the  land. 

For  further  particulars  app1v  to 

F.  B.  CHET  WOOD,  Elfzahetli,  N.  J. 

WM,  O.  GILES,  70  &  72  Franklin-st.,  New-York. 

TcT OWNERS  OF  FARMS  and  country  resil 

deuces.  One  of  the  best  plans  to  sell  is  to  register  your 
prepertv  for  sale,  rvitli  the  price,  terms,  how  far  depot,  &e., 
with  J.'Q  .  FOWLER,  No.  77  Cedar  street,  New-York ;  and  if 
you  want  to  purchase,  is  the  very  best  place.  Is  giving  his 
special  attention  to  buying  and  selling  country  property. 
Will  attend  to  the  advertising  and  selling  of  all  property  that 
is  to  be  sold  at  auction.  ,1.  Q,  FOWLER, 

Auctioneer  and  Real  Estate  De.sler, 

77  Cedar-st.,  New-York. 

®UI»EKI®ia  FARM  IL,A?SB>!-30.0«0 

”Aores  at  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms.— Frank- 
linville  Tract. — Gloucester  Conntj5  New  Jersey,  25  miles 
south  of  Philadelphia,  on  Railroad  running  from  Pliiladel- 
pliia  and  Camden  to  Cape  May.  In  lots  to  suit  purchasers. 
Circulars  witli  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  Hon.  5Vm.  Parry, 
and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  free,  by  addressing 
JOHN  IL  COFFIN  &  CO„  Franklinvillc,  Gloucester  Co, 
New- Jersey.  Also  Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


U 


MARYLAND  FARMS.” 


F: 


We  are  agents  for  the  sale  of  nearly 

Foair  Mniidrecl  Farms 

in  this  State.  A  printed  list  of  them  can  be  obtained  by 
sending  postage  stamp  to 

R.  W.  TEMPLEMAN  *  CO., 

No.  48  Lexlngton-st.,  (up  stairs)  Baltimore  City,  Md. 

OR  SALE  AT  A  BARGAIN— A  FARM  CON- 
—  taining  80  Acres.  fiO  nnder  fence,  20  Acres  voting  Timber, 
Dwelling  House  and  Barn,  M  mile  from  R.  R.  station  and 
Village,  fronting  a  Turnpike,  only  50  dollars  per  acre. 

J.  H.  COFFIN,  Franklinville,  Gloucester  (  o.,  N.  J. 

AKMERS  HAVING  FINE  HORSES  to  sell  in 

car 

dre  .  .  „  . „ 

N.  Y.  City.  N.  B.— Only  a  reason.able  commission  chaiged 

PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
For  Circnlars  and  prices,  Address  ‘N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO, 
Gum  Tree.  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


1865, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


69 


THE  IONA  AND  ISEAELLA  VINES, 

And  matters  connected  wit  It  tlieiii  of  Importance  to  Piircliasers 

of  Viness 


(•t«  TUe  cliarges  against  C,  'W.  GItAJrT,  ol 
stupendous  fraud  in  hastening  the  ripening  of  the 
Iona  and  Israella  grapes  by  means  of  “forcing  arrangements 
of  glass,”  etc.,  “  which  hastened  their  maturity  three  weeks 
In  advance  of  those  grown  without  such  arrangements.” 

iSd.  The  publication  of  these  charges  in  the 
Ohio  Parmer,  under  the  signature  of  “Peconic,”  and  in 
the  American  Agriculturist,  by  the  same  party,  over  his  own 
name. 

3d.  The  Greeley  Prizes,  and  the  award  of 
the  One  Hundred  Dollar  Fi'ize  to  the  Iona. 
The  charges,  or,  rather,  insinuations  by  Mr.  Byram  that 
this  award  was  dishonestly  and  corruptly  made,  implicating 
the  Committee,  Mr.  Greeley,  and  C.  W.  Grant,  in  the  perpe¬ 
tration  of  a  gross  fraud. 

Ath.  The  same  charge,  more  covertly  made 
in  the  American  Agriculturist,  when  introducing 
the  accusation  of  Mr.  Byram. 

5th.  The  claim  of  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist  that  it  should  not  be  held  as  a  prin¬ 
cipal  Party  in  the  Libel  against  C.  'W.  Grant,  implying 
its  right  to  publish  accusations  the  most  destructive  to  repu¬ 
tation  and  business,  under  tlie  plea  tliat  it  does  not  know 
tliem  to  be  false,  and  tliat  it  entertains  no  malice  against 
the  aosused. 

6th.  The  fallacy  and  wrong  of  this  Plea, 
and  the  Opinion  of  one  of  tire  most  able  Le¬ 
gal  gentlemen  of  New-Yorh  upon  the  subject. 

7th.  The  accusatijns  of  “  Pij-acy  ”  and 
“Humbugging”  against  C.  W.  GRANT,  for  al¬ 
leged  copying  and  imitating  plates,  and  also  of  using  some 
of  the  identical  plates  of  a  book  Published  by  A.  S.  Fuller, 
on  the  Vine,  in  his  own  (C.  W.  Grant's)  Publications,  named 
severally.  Descriptive  Catalogue,  Illustrated  Catalogue,  and 
Manual  of  the  Vine.  The  truth  shown  to  be  quite  the 
reverse. 

8th.  Charges  of  Deception  and  nnbusiness-like 
conduct  in  claiming  to  produce  better  vines,  by  additional 
care  and  expense  for  garden  and  vineyard,  than  those  ordi¬ 
narily  produced  by  nurserymen. 

9th.  Concerning  the  advocacy  of  new  and 
peculiar  theories,  and  new  and  peculiar  methods  ol 
cultivating  and  training  Vines  in  garden  and  vineyard. 

10th.  Is  the  present  desire  to  plant  the  best 
kinds  for  family  supply  and  for  market,  and 
also  for  wine,  unreasonable,  and  what  will 
be  the  result  of  it  I 

lltli.  Wlicrc  can  be  found,  precise,  accu¬ 
rate  and  intelligible  Descriptions  of  all  of 
our  Native  Grapes,  tliat  are  worthy  of  notice,  so  stated 
that  an  ordinarily  Intelligent  reader  may  learn  their  char¬ 
acter,  quality  and  relative  value. 

Pith.  Upon  what  peculiar  conditions  of 
merit  are  the  claims  to  Public  Attention  of 
the  Dcseriptive  Catalogue,  Illustrated  Catalogue  and  Man¬ 
ual  of  the  Vine  founded,  and  which  are  said  to  constitute 
them  a  thorough  and  cemprehensive  treatise  on  the  vine? 

The  foregoelng  twelve  heads  require  each  an  extended 


chapter  for  the  full  consideration,  which  the  subjects  em¬ 
braced  at  present  demand.  Tiiis  would  require  move  room 
than  the  advertisiug  columns  of  a  periodical  not  specially 
devoted  to  the  Vine,  can  furnish.  There  are  other  heads  of 
equal,  or  even  greater  interest,  not  named.  One  of  which 
is  the  History  and  Management  of  all  of  tlie  Israelha  and 
Iona  Vines,  at  Iona  Island,  showing  fully  and  fairly  their 
deportment  under  given  circumstances,  from  the  beginning, 
up  to  the  present  time.  Another  is,  an  account  of  the  man¬ 
ner  in  which  these  Seedlings  were  produced,  by  which  hints 
will  be  furnished  to  others  of  the  course  ot  proceeding  to 
produce  other  improved  kinds  by  “tliorough  breeding,” 
which  is  undoubtedly  the  only  method  by  which  a  hardy 
stock,  perfectly  adapted  to  this  country  can  be  obtained. 

I  have  prepared  a  pamphlet  of  twenty-four  pages  in  which 
all  of  these  matters  are  briefly,  but  clearly  treated,  and  in  a 
manner  calculated  to  give  a  true  Impression  in  regard  to 
Grape  Culture  in  all  its  aspects,  whether  for  wine  or  for  ta¬ 
ble— for  market  or  for  family  supply. 

In  this  pamphlet,  the  distinctive  characteristics  of  the 
Iona  and  Israella,  in  which  they  greatly  excel  all  other 
grapes  for  market  and  for  table  use,  are  clearly  represent'’d. 
The  Israella  being  the  earliest  grape  of  excellent  quality, 
and  at  the  same  time  a  good  keeper,  producing  abundant 
crops  unfailingly,  as  grown  in  the  open  ground  under  the 
ordinary  circumstances  of  cultivation,  or  rather  undewir- 
cumstances  less  favorable  than  those  of  ordinary  garden  or 
vineyard  culture. 

The  Iona  is  also  represented  as  very  early  in  ripening,  and 
as  the  only  American  Grape  of  large  size  that  is  equal  to  the 
best  European  kinds,  in  sweet,  rich  purity  of  flavor,  and  uni¬ 
form  tenderness  and  excellence  of  flesh  quite  to  the  center, 
and  at  the  same  time  remarkable  for  the  earliness  and  abund¬ 
ance  of  production,  and  its  certainty  of  perfect  ripening  un- 
derthe  conditions  of  ordinary  cultivation  in  full  exposure  in 
open  air.  Mr.  Byram  states  that  “to  his  personal  knowl¬ 
edge”  this  carliness  and  excellence  of  quality  was  produced 
by  “forcing  arrangements  of  glass  and  w.alls,  or  screens 
combined,  by  which  the  quality  of  the  fruit  was  greatly  im¬ 
proved,  and  the  time  of  ripening  hastened  at  least  three 
weeks.” 

These  charges,  if  substantiated,  fix  upon  my  character 
an  accumuiation  of  guilt  that  is  most  painful  to  contemplate, 
combining  falsehood  in  its  most  treacherous  form,  with  clieat- 
ing  that  is  worse  than  robbery.  The  etlect  upon  the  Public 
will  be  to  destroy  gener.al  confidence  in  all  engaged  in  the 
business,  and  upon  myself,  the  ineffaceable  brand  of  infamy 
wiii  be  stamped,  involving  In  lasting  shame  all  tliat  own 
any  connection  with  me. 

These  accusations  were  published  in  the  Ohio  Farmer,  un¬ 
der  the  signature  of  “Peconic,”  and  in  the  .Vinerican  Agricul¬ 
turist  by  the  same  party,  under  his  own  name,  H.  P.  Byram. 

One  of  the  prizes  offered  by  Mr.  Greeley,  under  certain 
conditions  for  the  leading  fruits,  Apples,  Pears  and  Grapes, 
was  awarded  to  the  Iona  Grape,  by  the  Committee  of  the 
Fruit  Department  of  the  American  Institute,  in  Sept.  last. 

The  award  of  this  important  premium  of  One  Hundred 
Dollars  Mr.  Byram  represents  as  having  been  dishonorably 
and  corruptly  made,  implicating  the  Committee,  Mr.  Greeley, 
and  C.  W.  Grant,  in  the  perpetration  of  a  gross  fraud.  Tiie 
charge  is  pointedly  made,  but  the  precise  form  of  the  crime 
is  not  given.  The  same  charge,  more  covertly,  but  not  less 
certainly,  is  made  by  the  American  Agriculturist.  This 
is  also  a  matter  ot  much  Importance,  and  I  would  hereby 
call  upon  the  whole  Committee  to  state  to  the  Public  not 
only  whether  any  dishonorable  or  corrupt  action  or  influence 
was  manifested  by  myself,  or  in  my  behalf,  but  whether  any 
such  influence  came  to  their  knowledge  from  any  quarter, 
and  if  so,  what  was  the  form  and  purport  of  it. 

I  would  here  state,  that  no  such  transaction  as  is  repre¬ 
sented,  ever  took  place  between  Mr.  Greeley  and  myself,  and 
that  I  never  paid,  or  procured  to  be  paid  to  Mr.  Greeley,  or 
to  the  Tribune  Association,  any  money  except  what  was  ap¬ 
plied  for  advertising,  for  which  I  have  sent  several  sums  of 
One  Hundred  Dollars  each,  and  often  much  larger. 

The  claim  of  the  American  Agriculturist,  that  it  should 
not  be  held  as  a  principal  party  in  the  libel  against  C. 
tv.  Grant,  is  not  to  be  entertained  for  one  moment,  and 
the  plea  that  a  character  blighted,  and  a  business  destroy¬ 
ed,  can  be  restored  by  a  discussion  on  equal  terms  with 
the  destroyer,  with  the  Editor's  whole  weight  thrown 
adversely  at  the  beginning,  and  the  calumniator  placed  with 
his  falsehoods  and  wicked  purposes,  not  only  before,  but 
also  above  his  victim,  by  giving  the  presumption  in  favor 
of  the  accuser.  The  Editor  is  forgetfui  of  the  principle 
upon  which  the  proverb  of  acknowledged  wisdom  is 
founded:  “  A  malicious  lie  will  travel  many  leagues,  while 
truth  is  getting  ready  his  sandals,  and  will  be  hospitably 
entertained  where  truth  will  be  shut  out.” 


A  case  In  point  Is  ready  at  hand.  A  few  weeks  since  a 
report  was  published  in  a  leading  paper  representing  me  as 
a  falsifier  and  swindler  on  a  large  scale.  A  full  and  com¬ 
plete  refutation  followed  immediately,  prepared  and  signed 
by  men  disinterest"  !  .ind  of  high  and  weli  known  char.acter. 
Tlie  malignant  part  of  the  report  was  copied  In  all  parts  of 
tlie  country,  with  added  venom,  but  tlie  refutation  not  once. 
Tlie  fallacy  and  injustice  upon  which  the  plea  of  the  Agri¬ 
culturist  is  founded,  are  well  disposed  of  in  the  following 
letter  from  one  of  the  most  eminent  gentlemen  of  the  New- 
York  Bar,  having  this  particular  case  in  mind. 

New-Yoek,  Jan.  12th,  1865,  No.  II  Pino-st. 
Dr.  C.  tv.  Grant. 

Pear  Nir.— Nothing  can  be  better  established  in  law  than 
that  the  Editor  of  a  paper  is  responsible  for  everything  that 
he  admits  into  its  columns,  whether  he  is  the  author  or  not. 
If  he  permits  libellous  matter  to  be  published,  he  must  re¬ 
spond  in  damages  to  tlie  extent  of  the  injury  inflicted,  what 
ever  that  may  be. 

He  is  not  permitted  to  shield  himself  by  the  fact  that  the 
injurious  publication  was  made  without  Iiis  knowledge  or 
consent,  for  the  conductor  of  a  public  paper  is  bound  by  the 
highest  obligarions._  to  see  to  it  that  so  powerful  an  engine  as 
tlie  press  is  not  used  by  others,  for  wicked  purposes.  He  is 
bound  to  know  before  he  suffers  anything  to  be  published 
that  it  is  true,  and  must  answer  for  it  if  it  is  not,  though 
actual  malice  on  his  part,  can  not  be  imputed  to  him.  If  the 
publication  is  .false,  malice  is  always  presumed  from  that  fact, 
and  the  Editor  who  lends  his  columns  to  the  defamer  can 
overcome  that  presumption  only  by  showing  a  degree  ot 
carelessness  on  Ids  part  which  is  equally  obnoxious  to  the  law 

Yours  truly,  IVilliaji  FuLLEKTOir. 

In  defending  myself  against  the  charge  of  unfairness  and 
dishonest}',  under  tlie  Ttli  head,  I  must  necessarily  become  by 
implic.ation  the  accuser  of  A.  S.  Fuller.  My  publications  con¬ 
taining  these  plates  were  chiefly  made  years  before  his 
book  appeared,  and  of  course  could  not  have  been  taken 
from  it.  On  the  contrary,  so  many  of  the  plates  on  the  man¬ 
agement  of  the  vine  were  my  own  (used  without  permission 
or  one  word  of  acknowledgment)— that  if  tliese  were  taken 
from  his  book,  togellier  with  those  copied  or  closely  imi¬ 
tated,  few  of  much  value  would  be  left.  To  my  mind  it  is  a 
flagrant  case  of  violation  of  right,  that  should  liavebeen  pros¬ 
ecuted.  Concerning  the  nuinerous  errors  into  which  he  has 
fallen  through  ignorance  and  inexperience,  i  sliall  speak 
elsewhere. 

In  anstver  to  the  8th  I  would  say  that  I  was  not  only  the 
first  that  practised  the  metliod  of  propagation  tliat  by 
tliorougli  trial  is  proved  and  admitted  to  be  the  best,  but  was 
for  several  vears  alone  in  it,  and  tliat  all  of  the  numerous  im¬ 
itations  now  found  in  different  parts  of  the  country  may  be 
said  to  have  grown  out  of  mine.  I  may  .also  safely  say  that 
no  one  h.as  nearly  equalled  mine  in  extent  and  means  of  pro¬ 
ducing  tlie  best  vines  for  garden  and  viney.ard  planting. 
The  idea  and  purpose  upon  which  I  engaged  in  the  under¬ 
taking,  and  to  whicli  I  have  persistently  adlicred,  was  Tint 

PRODUCTION  OF  TIIE  BEST  I’LANT.S  TO  BE  AFFORDED  AT  THE 

CHEAPEST  rates  to  the  people  generally,  making  the  business 
a  SPECIALTY,  and  giving  abundant  means,  with  my  whole 
care  and  attention  to  thatend. 

When  after  long  study,  careful  observation  and  extensive 
trial,  I  have  learned  what  is  best  for  those  who  wisli  to  plant 
for  anv  given  purpose,  and  have  produced  a  stock  of  surpass¬ 
ing  quality,  there  is  no  way  apparent  to  me  by  wliich  the 
public  may  be  readied  to  enable  it  to  be  benefit'ted  by  them 
except  bv' stating  truly  and  precisely  the  character  of  what  I 
have  to  offer.  I  liave  done  this  so  long  and  so  extensively,  and 
bv  doing  so  have  disseminated  such  a  vast  number  of  vines 
tlirougnout  every  part  of  the  country,  tliat  iiiy  jurors  (the 

tirchasers)  must  now  be  ready  for  rendering  a  verdict. 

have  recommended  first  class  vines  (tliat  have  been 
produced  with  great  care  and  cost,  and  siicli  as  I  felt  assured 
were  of  unequalled  qualitv),  as  tlie  best  and  cheapest  to  pur¬ 
chasers  for  vinevards,  as  well  as  for  gardens.  1  have  produced 
large  stocks  of  Delaware  vines  of  this  class  for  many  years, 
increasing  tlie  number  as  the  demand  consequent  upon  their 
goodness  and  reputation  increased. 

Last  fall  MORE  than  MT  entire  stock  of  DELAWARE  AND 
Diana  vines  for  vineyard  planting  were  ordered  at 
THE  BEGINNING  OF  THE  SEASON.  This  I  accept  as  a  verdict  in 
my  favor,  and  above  all  as  a  good  omen  for  tlie  success  ol 
vine  culture.  The  demand  foFvlnes  of  the  best  class  of  these 
kinds  for  family  supply  has  also  vastly  increased,  as  was  to 
have  been  expected  from  the  education  of  the  public  taste. 
■This  is  not  surprising  to  those  who  have  learned  the  excel¬ 
lence  and  value  of  good  grapes. 

As  to  the  9th  I  can  onlv  say  here  the  subject  of  vine  cul¬ 
ture  has  been  of  exceeding  interest  to  me  from  my  child¬ 
hood,  and  that  I  had  long  been  familiar  with  the  principle* 
and  practice  of  the  cultivation  of  both  native  and  foreign 
kinds  before  saying  one  word  to  the  public  concerning 
eitlier,  and  when  I  spoke  it  was  according  to  my  own  care¬ 
fully  wrougiit  out  experience,  the  reproach  of  which  is  not 
severe  to  bear.  My  publications  have  been  the  outgrowth  of 
my  own  personal  practice,  and  made  because  I  thought  them 
suited  to  the  public  need  at  the  time.  I  have  never  ad¬ 
vocated  any  new  theor}',  nor  have  1  claimed  the  invention 
of  any  new  system  or  methods  of  training.  My  labor  has 
been  to  explain  and  teach  to  beginners  those  which  have 
been  well  known  and  established  for  ages. 

I  have  scarcely  touched  upon  the  subjects  of  the  three  last 
heads  here,  but  the  matter  is  fully  treated  in  the  pamplilet. 
All  of  these  minor  imputations  have  been  in  circulation  a 
long  time,  being  thought  unworthy  of  notice :  but  when  tliey 
culminated  in  charges  of  stupendous  fraud  I  could  no  longer 
forbear.  C.  W.  GRANT. 

Iona,  Jan.  18, 1865. 


60 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[Febuuart, 


50,000  CONCORD  VINES. 

5,000  ROGER§»  HYBRID’S. 

Send  stamp  for  Wholesale  or  Retail  Catalogue,  containing 
cut  of  Rogers’  No.  19.  The  Special  PremiMin  Orapc 
of  the  Penn.  Horticultural  Society,  which  is  the  best  new 
hardy  Black  Grape  yet  introduced.  We  have  the  whole 
stock  from  original  vine.  Address 

WM.  PERRY  &  SON,  Bridgeport,  Conn. 


Onr  Descriptive  Catalogwe 

OF 

Flower  and  Vegetable  Seeds, 

IS  NOW  READY, 

and  will  be  mailed  to  all  applicants. 

PETER  HENDEltSON. )  HENDERSON  &  FLEMING, 
JAMES  FLEMING.  {  67  Nassau-st..  New  Y'ork. 


THE  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKET. 

Patented  3Iay  31st,  ISGA. 

We  offer  to  the  trade 
for  the  year  186.5,  the 
celebrated  Veneer 
Fruit  Basket, 
which  h.as  been  so 
extensively  and  sat¬ 
isfactorily  used  the 
pastseason.  To  those 
who  have  used  it,  it 
recommends  itself ; 
to  others  we  claim 
for  it  superiority 
over  the  many  kinds 
now  in  use  for  the 
following  reasons : 
It  is  broad  at  the  bot¬ 
tom  and  not  easily 


This  Burner  can  be  filled,  trimmed,  and  lighted  without 
removing  the  chimney  or  unscrewing  the  Burner. 

It  is  not  clogged  by  crust.  It  gives  the  be.st  light,  and  pro. 
duces  no  odor.  The  short  chimney  is  seldom  broken  by 
heat,  and  can  be  easily  cleansed.  The  Burner  can  be  fitted 
to  all  ordinary  lamps. 

An  attacliment  of  small  cost  gives  ready  means  of  heating 
water,  making  it  invaluable  in  the  nursery  or  sick  room. 

Send  for  Circular,  and  Address  orders  to 

DIETZ  &  CO.,  13:4  &  131  William-st., 
NewYork  City. 

.A.g'rieu.ltYir'al  Colleg'e 

or  the  state  of  ITIichigan. 

The  classes  for  the  term  of  1805  will  be  organized  on  Wed¬ 
nesday,  March  Ist.  This  Institution  is  supported  by  the  State, 
and  has  a  full  corps  of  Professors,  a  Farm,  Gardens,  Fine 
Stock,  an  excellent  Clieraical  Laboratory,  &c.  Students  are 
received  to  a  full  course  of  four  years,  or  to  a  select  course 
of  any  length.  The  course  of  study  is  intended  to  furnish  a 
thorough  English  and  Scientific  Education. 

Students  are  required  to  work  three  hours  a  day  on  the 
farm,  and  a  moder.ate  compensation  is  allowed  for  each 
hour’s  work. 

Tuition  is  free  to  Students  from  the  State— to  others  $20 
per  Annum.  Board  is  furnished  at  cost :  during  the  last  half 
of  lS6t.  it  was  at  the  rate  of  $‘2  .50  per  week,  nearly  one  half 
of  which  was  in  moat  Instances  paid  by  the  labor  of  the  Stu¬ 
dent.  F  jr  further  information,  or  Catalogue,  Address 

T.  C.  ABBOTT,  President, 
Lansing,  Michigan. 


CJE®.  A.  FiimCE  Sc  CD.’S 
PATENT 

AUTOMATIC  OMANS! 


39  Varieties,  ivith  Patent  Basso  Tenuto  or  Sub  Bass. 


SCHOOL  ORGANS  AND  MELODEONS, 

FINISHED  IN 

Eleg-asit  RD§ewoDil3  Walsssit  or  Oak 
Cases. 

EVERY  INSTRU.MENT  WARRANTED  FOR 
FIVE  YEARS. 

No  Charge  for  Boxing  or  Shipping. 

IM 

AN  ILLUSTR.ATED  CATALOGUE,  CONTAIN- 

■^^ing  full  description  of  stj-le,  and  testimonials  of  the 
mo.st  eminent  Jluslcians,  as  to  tlie  superior  excellence  of  our 
instruments— will  be  sent  free  to  any  address. 

TffiE  AIJT@MATI€ 

In  presenting  the  Automatic  Organ,  we  boldly  announce 
the  greatest  triumpli  in  musical  instruments  of  the  age. 
During  the  past  half  century,  tlie  Frencli  and  Germans  have 
manufactured  reed  instruments  with  double  bellows,  and 
two  pedals  for  the  feet  to  operate,  but  the  want  of  tlie  re¬ 
served  or  Exhaustion  Bellows,  (which  is  tlie  only  bellows 
used  in  our  instruments),  made  it  impossible  for  them  to 
produce  the  mellow,  rich  and  musical  tone  for  wliich  our 
instruments  are  celebrated. 

Another  objection  to  tins  method  of  blowing  was  that, 
both  feet  being  occupied,  no  opportunity  was  offered  for  the 
management  of  the  swell.  5Vitliin  Hie  past  two  years,  instru¬ 
ments  constructed  on  the  European  plan  of  "double  blow¬ 
ers,”  liave  been  manufactured  in  tills  country,  and  to  coun¬ 
teract  this  difficulty  (want  of  a  swell)  a  lever  has  been  pro¬ 
jected  from  Hie  centre  of  Hie  Instrument,  to  act  upon  Hie 
swell,  and  operated  by  Hie  knee.  The  inconvenience  and 
contortion  necessary  to  effect  tliis  object  are  disiigreeahle 
cnoiigli  to  a  geiiHemaii,  but  to  a  lady  Hie  use  of  sucli  an  ap¬ 
pendage  is  nearly  impossilile. 

Our  Aiffomatic  device  obviates  Hie  difficulty  entirely.  Hie 
simple  act  of  lilowing  with  more  or  less  force  giving  Hie  de¬ 
sired  increase  or  decrease  in  the  volume  of  tone.  5Vc  pre- 
liict  for  tills  invention  a  brilliant  future. 

THE  MB’IMDEDM  AMD 
SCIIDDE.  DSt«AM. 

For  seventeen  years  Hie  superior  excellence  of  our  Melo- 
deoiis  lias  not  been  questioned,  and  for  two  years  past  the 
enormous  demand  lias  made  it  impossible  for  us  to  meet  our 
orders  promptly.  5ViHi  our  increased  facilities,  we  feel  ivar- 
ranicd  in  assuring  our  patrons  tliat  their  orders  will  be 
promptly  met,  and  solicit  a  continuance  of  their  patronage. 

Gfljo.  A.  i»figa:^’CE  &  CO. 


CAUTION  TO  PURCHASERS. 

AH  onr  instruments  have  upon  the  name  board,  in  full, 
“GEO.  A.  PRINCE  &  CO.”  5Vhen  a  dealer  represents  any 
other  iiistruineiit  as  “Hie  same  as  ours,”  it  is  usually  a  mere 
attempt  to  sell  an  inferior  instrument,  on  whlcli  he  can  make 
.5  large  profit. 

P.  S.— A  liberal  discount  to  Churches,  Clergjmen,  and 
Schools.  Address 

«EO.  A.  PRAYCE  &,  CO., 
Buinilo,  N.  Y. 

GEO.  A.  PKIIVCE  &  CO., 
Chicag-o,  111. 

Or  CIIABSEES  E.  BACO.Y, 
51»  SBroadway,  l^e'W'-Yorlc  City. 


RSpIey  FcBBiaSe  College. 


Spring  Session  commences  February  8tli,  1865.  Thorough 
drill  in  English  Branches.  Preparatory,  Academic,  and  Col¬ 
legiate  Departments.  Superior  facilities  for  Frencli  and 
Music;  two  Professors  being  exclusively  devoted  to  the 
Piano.  Splendid  brick  buildings,  elegantly  furnished  (whole 
cost,  $75,000) ;  numbers  limited.  Send  for  Catalogue. 

Address  Rev.  JOHN  NEWMAN,  D.  D., 

Poultney,  Vt. 

Educational  AGENCY ;  for  supplying  Teach- 
ere.  Male  and  Female,  for  scliools  and  Famiiies,  with 
best  means  for  judging  of  cliaracter  and  qualiffcalioiis.  All 
books  mailed  free  on  receipt  of  retail  price.  Circulars  at  re¬ 
quest  with  stamp.  Address  J.  A.  NASH,  5  Beekmaii-st.,  N.  Y. 


THE  HNIYEHSAL 


Cog-Whcel  Ciotl.  Wi’Isiger 

was  pronounced  superior  lo  all  others  at 

Tne  World’s  Fair,  in  London,  1862, 

received  tlie  BKONZE  MEDAL  (highest  premium)  at  the 
(ireat  Fair  of  the 

American  Institute,  in  New  York  City,  in  1863. 

It  has  also  received  the 


FIRST  PREMIUMS 

at  the  following  STATE  FAIRS: 

NEW  YOP.K . 1863  1863 

VERMONT. . 1863 

PENNSYLVANIA . 1863  ...  1864 

MICHIGAN, . .  1864 

INDIANA .  1863  ,  .  1864 

ILLINOIS . 1863 . 1864 

I05VA .  1863 . 1864 

WISCONSIN .  1864 

CON N.  RIVER  VALLEY  FAIR .  I8r>4 

CH.\MPLAIN  VALLEY  FAIR . 1864 

and  at  Hie  principal  COUNTY  and  INSTITUTE  FAIRS 
throughout  the  land. 


Opinion  of  Orange  Jinlcl,  EIsq.,  Kditor  Amcr> 
ican  Agricultnrist. 

It  is,  in  reality,  a  Clothee  Saver!  a  Time  Saver!  and  a 
Strength  Saver!  We  think  tlie  macliine  more  Hian  pays  for 
itself  every  year,  in  tlie  saving  of  garments !  Tliere  are  sev¬ 
eral  kinds,  nearly  alike  in  general  construction,  but  we  con¬ 
sider  it  important  that  the  Wringer  be  fitted  witli  COGS, 
otlierwise  a  mass  of  garments  may  clog  Hie  rollers,  and  tlie 
rollers  upon  Hie  crank-shaft  slip,  and  tear  Hie  cloHics.  Our 
own  is  one  of  the  first  made,  and  it  is  as  good  as  new.  after 
nearly  four  years’  constant  use  ! 

See  also  Premium  list  in  this  paper  and  advertisement 
In  hack  numbers  of  the  Agriculturist. 

Prices  for  Hie  best  family  sizes— 5VITH  COGS— No.  3,  $10. 
No.  IK,  $>2.  On  receipt  of  Hie  price  from  places  where  no 
one  is  selling,  we  5vill  send  tlie  U.  C.  W.  free  of  expense. 
SW  EVERY  5VRINGER  5VITH  COGS  IS  5VARRANTED! 

Good  canvassers  can  find  profitable  employment  scllini' 
the  U.  C.  5V.  For  terms  and  Circulars  address 

R.  C.  BROWNING,  Genl.  Ag’t,  347  Broadway,  N.  T. 


Ivin’s  Patent  Hair  Cs’imjiers. 

iMdies  try  Them.  Tliey  will  make  your  hair  wave  beauti¬ 
fully  witliout  beating  it.  Forsale  at  Variety  Stores  through¬ 
out  the  country.  Retail  mercliants  will  be  supplied  by  aliF 
first-class  Joiibcr  of  Notions  in  New-York,  Pliiladelpliia,  Pa'., 
or  Boston,  Mass. 


Cured  by  Bates’  Patent  Appliances.  For  pamphlet,  Ad¬ 
dress  H.  C.  H.  MEARS,  277  5Vest  23d-Bt.,  New  York. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


61 


$1.  FFCsea”¥©  ¥0iar  Eg'gs.  $1. 

Perkins’  Patent  for  Frcserving  Eggs,  Meats, 
&c.,  April  19tli,  1864. 

Individual  Eights  to  Farmers  for  $1.00. 

APPi.T  TO  THE  Agent  inclosing  tue  Above  Sum. 

"Everv  person  having  half  a  dozen  hens  should  nave  the 
right  to  use  tliis  process,  and  thus  always  secure  the  luxury 
of  fresh  e^^s  The  advantages  will  at  once  conimend 
selves  to  efery  one,  as  the  preserving  of  eggs  trom  nlentilul 
to  scarce  seasons  has  been  the 

fore  unsuceesstul)  experiments.  Perkins  PcVUnt  is  tlie^ 
successful  process  yet  known,  eggs  piepared  by  the  patentee 
and  Agent  have  proved  perfectly  sound  w'len  18  nioiitlis  old. 
This  nfocess  has  been  well  and  thorouglilj'  tried  during  the 
las  s'^yea?!,  and  wmie  all  other  means  liave  failed,  this  uni- 
formlv  nrcservcs  the  egg,  and  is  at  once.  Cheap,  Siaiplc 
and  s\rrc  -The  Agent  and  Patentee  have  deteriiiiiie.T  to 
olfer  this  valuable  process  for  preserving  eggs  direct  y  to 
the  Fai-mo.rs,  and  .at  a  price  that  all  can  alloid  to  Intve 
irtrusHn g  they  will  not  be  slow  i" 

the  advantages  otfered.  Apply  to  HIvM.T  T.  lJCtlAUDb, 
Bloomlicld,  S.  ,1.,  inclosing  One  Dollar.  t.ive  Posr  Of¬ 
fice  address  distinctly,  and  in  the  order  ot  application, 
the  ri^'ht  will  be  mailed  with  lull  directions,  and  tlie  method 
of  preparing  the  egg  shown  by  an  engraving. 

HENUT  E.  IIICHARDS,  Bloomfield,  N  J., 
Agent  for  JAMES  PEliKINS,  Patentee. 
Eo’gs  prepared  under  this  Patent  are  on  exhibition  at  the 
office  of  the  American  Agriculturist.  _ ^ 

buy  the  BE8T 


XJIVIOM 

MACIIINE. 


C  C.  AULTMAN  &  CO.,  Canton,  Ohio. 
Manufactured  by  i 

(ADKIANCE,  PLATT  &  CO., 

165  Greenwich-stH  New-Pork. 

In  reply  to  many  inquiries,  we  have  to  announce  that, 
PNTiL  roRTnER  NOTICE,  oi’dcrs  will  be  received  at  the  fol¬ 
lowing  KET  CASH  PRICES  ! 

c.  A'aia.'ffMAjiii'  Sc  CO.’S 

Machines  Delivered  at  Canton,  Ohio. 

Junior  Mower . 4  ft.  1  inch  cut . $115 

Senior  Mower, . 4  “8  “  “  . 200 

Mower  and  IIeaper...  6  “  •“  Hear  Delivery.  230 

“  “  ...  6  “  “  Side  “  230 

“  ...  6  “  “  Dropper  230 

A1>KIA?¥CE,  PA.A'a''!’  &  CO.’S 

Machines  Delivered  at  New  York  or  Po’keepsie. 

No.  2  Mower .  4  ft.  1  inch  cut . . . $175 

No.  1  Mower .  4  ft.  8  inch  cut . 200 

No.  1  Mower  and  Reaper,  D  ft.  cut  iu  Reaping . 240 

A  LESS  AMOUNT  OP  FaRM  PRODUCE  PAYS  FOR  A  Ma- 
SHINE  AT  THESE  PRICES  THAN  WAS  REQUIRED  WHEN 
PRICES  WERE  NOMINALLY  THE  LOWEST. 

By  the  beginning  of  Spring  we  were  obliged  to  stop  receiv¬ 
ing  orders,  last  year,  and  the  demand  is  greater  and  earlier 
this  season. 

By  ordering  at  once  tlie  Farmer  not  only  makes  sure  of  the 
BEST  MACHINE,  hut  avoids  the  risk  of  a  further  ad¬ 
vance  iu  prices. 

Circulars  can  he  obtained  of  any  of  our  Agents,  or  will  he 
forwarded  by  mail. 

Seeds,  Implements,  Fertilizers. 
Plants 

of  every  variety  for  sale  by 

JOHN  VANDERBILT, 

23  Fulton-st.,  New  York. 

■«7ALUABLE  PATENTS  FOPv  SALE.— Case’s 

w  Corn  Husking  Machine,  patented.  Dec.  1864.  Eavhart’s 
American  Bee  Hive,  patented  Nov.,  18(4.  A  good  patent  the 
best  investment  for  capital  and  enterprise.  OKWIG  &  CO., 
Patent  Exchange,  229  Broadway,  N.  Y.  City. 


Tills  Macliine  has  been  in  use  four  successive  harvests,  and 
has  met  witli  the  hearty  approval  and  well  merited  praise  of 
practical  farmers.  7Ve  call  tlie  attention  of  farmers  to  our 
Mower  for  1S65,  of  superior  manufacture,  and  possesing 
new  Sind  v:ilita!>lc  improvements. 

SEND  FOR  A  CIRCULAR. 

AGENTS  WANTED. 

- 0 - 

WMIT€OMIl’§ 
Horse  Hay  Jr2.ake- 

Send  for  Circular.  Agents  Wanted. 

CLEMENT’S 
laaaproved  May  Fork. 


Tlie  LIGHTEST,  SIMPLEST  most  COBIPACT 
and  CONVE.NIENT  PORK  in  use.  Is  made  entirely  of 
Iron  and  Steel,  in  the  most  durable  manner,  having  no 
wooden  liead  to  split  and  allow  the  teeth  to  get  loose. 
Agents  Wanted. 

- 0 - 

SH.ARE’S  Patent  Coulter  Harrow 
“  “  Hoer  and  Hiller. 

H.VDSTED’S  Cultivator  and  Seed  Drill. 

EROWN’-S  Ice  Cream  Freezers. 

Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds.— -Seeds,  Fertilizers,  &c. 

HAINES  &  PELL, 

27  Courtlandt-9t.,  New-York. 


Is  the  only  entirely  reliable  Washing  Machine  In  existence. 
It  has  been  in  constant  use  in  the  family  of  Mr.  Judd,  the 
Proprietor  ot  this  Journal,  and  iu  that  of  Mr.  Munn,  proprie¬ 
tor  of  the  Scientiftc  American,  since  1861.  For  description 
see  advertisement  in  preceding  numbers  of  the  Agriculturist. 
Send  for  free  Circular  to 
OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  181  Water-street,  New-York. 

$275,  SEVEN  OCTAVE.  ^275* 

ROSEWOOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  49!>  Broadway,  N.  Y. 
Now,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latest  improvements. 

Thirty  years’  e.xperieiice,  witli  jrreatly  increased  tacilities 
Tor  manutacturinir,  enable  us  to  sell  for  CA.SH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  instruments  received  the  higliest 
award  at  the  World’s  Fair,  and  for  live  successive  years  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warninted  five  years.  Terms 
uct  Cash.  Call  or  sene!  for  descriptive  circular. 


THE  FAVOISITE  BIIMNEM. 

No  /2:lass  chimneys  needed. 
We  are  now  manufacturing 
our  unrivalled  non-chimney 
liurner  In  such  quantities  as 
to  be  able  to  olfer  it  to  all  who 
USE  lamps.  It  is  the  only  re¬ 
liable  non-chimney  Burner. 
It  makes  a  clear,  soft  and 
steady  light.without  smoke  or 
odor,  consuming  the  carbon 
by  jets  of  air  entering  the 
interior  of  the  flame.  It  holds 
tlie  flame  and  can  be  carried 
about  like  a  candle.  It  saves 
the  eyes,  the  fingers,  half  the  oil,  and  all  the  expense  of 
chimneys.  It  is  the  best  night  lamp,  and  is  perfectlv  safe 
and  reliable  in  every  way.  It  is  simple  in  operation,  ana 
never  gets  out  of  order.  It  will  fit  your  lamps,  as  the  screws 
are  of  uniform  size  in  the  lamps  now  made.  You  can  buv 
directly  of  us,  through  the  mail,  without  regard  to  dealers, 
wlio  make  their  profits  mainly  from  the  sale  of  chimneys. 
Mailed,  postage  paid,  to  any  a’ddress  on  receipt  of  seventy- 
five  cents,  with  wick  ready  for  use. 

B.— For  twenty-five  cents  additional  we  will  mail,  post¬ 
paid,  one  year’s  supply  ofwicks.  Write  to 

HUTCHINSON  &  CO.,  Cayuga,  N.  Y. 


Mallory  &  Hanford’s 

FUAX  BBAME. 


Wlaat  it  will  S>o. 

Kead  tlie  following  Letter  from  a  man¬ 
ufacturer. 

Salem,  N.  Y.,  Nov.  30, 18M. 
John  W.  Quincj',  Treasurer,  &c. 

I  started  a  new  Flax  Mill  this  year,  and  feeling  that  the 
price  of  your  Brakes  was  so  high,  thought  I  would  econo¬ 
mize  by  purchasing  an  improved  old-fasliioned  Brake,  wliich 
I  did,  and  placed  it  in  my  new  mill,  and  run  it  four  days. 
After  running  two  days,  I  was  determined  to  test  it  tlior- 
oughly  with  the  two  Brakes  I  purcliased  of  you,  two  years 
since,  and  have  been  running  in  my  old  mill  at  Lake,  ever 
since.  My  tests  are  as  follows : 

On  average  rotted  straw,  your  Brake  would  give  every 
time  full  100  Bs.  more  of  dressed  flax  to  the  ton  than  I  could 
with  tlie  greatest  care  get  from  the  old  Brake.  On  over¬ 
rotted  straw  I  got  over  200  Bis.  more  tlian  I  could  get  by  the 
old  Brake.  I  stopped  dressing  and  went  to  figuring,  and' 
found  tliat  to  dress  tlie  flax  I  now  liave,  with  tlie  old  Brake, 
would  cost  me  over  $8,000  (loss).  I  therefore  ■want  you  to 
sliip  one  of  your  Improved  No.  1  Brakes  by  Express,  as  my 
men  will  dress  no  more  flax  in  this  mill  nntil  the  new  Brake 
arrives.  ICiiclosed  please  find  ciieck  for  $455. 

Yours  respectfully, 

P.  T.  Burdick, 

For  further  particulars  of  this  case  and  many  similar  ones, 
and  for  full  information  coiiceniiiig  the  BI.  &  S.  FLAX 
BRiYKE,  send  for  Circular  to 

JOHN  W.  Q,UINCY,  Treasurer, 

98  William-sf.,  New-Yorlt  City. 


^KEEN’S  PATENT  ROOFING 

Consists  of  a  stout  Canvas,  impregnated  with  a  per 
fectly  water-proof  and  incorriiptihle  compound,  covered  on 
both  sides  wilha  stout  fabric  made  water-proof  by  a  solution 
of  INDIA  RUBBEl!,  and  liardened  by  a  coaling  of  PATENT 
METALLIC  PAINT. 

It  is  tlioroiighly  WATER-PROOF. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  oil-cloth. 

It  makes  the  best  and  most  durable  READY  ROOFING 
ever  introduced. 

It  is  designed  for  DWELLING  HOUSES,  BARNS,  SHEDS. 
STEAMBOATS  and  RAILWAY  CARS. 

It  c,an  he  laid  down  by  any  sensible  -working  man. 

It  is  CHEAPER  than  anv  known  ROOFING  OF  EQTT.4.L 
DURABILITY.  HUNRY  SMITH,  No.  129  Pearl  st. 

T  EAKY  SHINGLE,  CANVAS  or  FELT  ROOFS 
MJean  be  made  water-tight  by  using  the  GUTTA  PERCHA 
CEMENT.  LEAKY  TIN  ROOFS  will  w'ear  five  time.s  as 
long  if  coated  with  the  GUTTAPERCHA  CEMENT  PAINT, 
the  best  Paint  for  Agricultural  Implements,  out-buildings. 
Fences,  &c..  &c  Manufactured  readv  for  use  bv  the 

JOHNS  &  CROSLEY  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

No.  78  William-st.,  cor.  Liberty,  New- 'York. 

Sole  JIanufacturers  of  the  Gutta  Percha  Cement  Roofing. 


Patent  Gum  Spring  Grain  Drill. 

The  shovels  of  This  Drill  have  a  Patent  Gum  Spring  attach¬ 
ed,  which  enables  the  Drill  to  pass  over  rocks,  stumps  and 
other  obstructions,  without  stoppage  or  breakage.  The  seed¬ 
ing  apparatus  also  consists  simply  of  two  vulcanized  India 
Rubber  Rollers  revolving  together,  and  passing  down  the 
grain  with  perfect  regularity,  and  without  bunching  or  chok¬ 
ing.  Sows  ALL  KINDS  OF  GRAIN.  Hundreds  of  these  Drills 
are  now  in  use  in  Pennsylvania,  where  they  are  preferred  to 
any  other  drill.  Retail  price  $1  00.  Orders  addressed  to  F. 
GARDNER  &  CO..  Carlisle,  Penn.,  Manufacturers.  Local 
Agents  wanted,  and  State  and  County  Rights  for  sale. 


A  Perfect  Willow  Feeler. 

Peels  rapidly.  Runs  easily  by  hand  or  Horse  power,  will 
not  injure  tlie  Willow  in  tlie  least.  A  durable 
and  honest  article.  Send  with  stamp  for  Circular,  with  de¬ 
scription  and  price.  Made  and  sold  by 

EASTERBROOK  &  BRONSON,  Geneva,  N.  Y. 


Hot  Wsiter  Feriinces 

for  AV arming  Greeii-liouses,  Conservato 
ries.  Graperies,  &c. 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Prince-st,,  New-York 


PORTABLE  PRINTING  OFFICES  !- 
For  sale  by  the  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  26  Ann-st.,  Neiv 
York.  Circular  sent  free.  Specimen  Sheet  of  TYPE,  CUT^ 
&C.,  six  cents. 


63 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Febetjaiit, 


Sawisag  MacMsaes  ; 

In  addition  to  tiie  manufacture  of  Steam  and  Horse  Power 
Tlirasluni  Machines,  we  are  buiidins  extensively  Cross¬ 
cut  and  Circular  Saws.  The  Cross-cut  or  Drag  Saw  is  intend¬ 
ed  to  attach  to  Horse  Powers  of  all  kinds,  and  wiil  saw  Irom 
20  to  40  cords  of  stove  wood  in  one  day.  We  huiid  two  sizes 
of  Powers  s  Jitahle  to  run  them.  One  is  a  two-horse  Power, 
W'hile  the  other  is  heavier  and  is  designed  for  either  two  or 
four  horses  as  may  be  desired.  These  machines  are  in  gen¬ 
eral  use  and  every  farmer  should  have  one. 

Our  Circular  Saw  for  cutting  cord  wood,  limbs  and  poles 
into  stove  wood  is  the  best  arranged  and  most  desirable 
style  in  use.  Our  machinery  is  not  only  substantially  built 
out  of  the  best  of  material,  but  is  finished  off  in  a  very  tasty 
manner.  Address  .lONAS  W.  YEO. 

Proprietor  Robinson’s  Machine  Works, 
Richmond,  Ind. 


A.  M.  HALSTED, 

Jfo.  67  Pearl-sfl-ect,  Ncw-Yorlc, 

Produce  Coinmissiou  Mcrclsaut, 


FOB  THK  SALE  OP; 


,  a 

Q;  a 

O 

a 


m  2 

g  a 

^  a 

a  m 


REFERENCES.— Belli.  Loder,  Esq.,  N.  Y.,  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  U..  Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O.,  Cragin  &  Co.,  N. 
and  Cliicago,  Ill.,  Geo.  M.  Todd,  Burlington,  la. 

Send  for  weekly  Price  Current,  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular,  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

S.  B.  COMOfER, 

CoiMiiiisgi®!!  HealeFg 

260,  261  &  262  West  Washingtou  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Refers  to  tiie  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 

Farmers,  Countrymen,  and 
Country  Merchants 


B  III]  €  E  ’  8 


5 

Brjtces’  Conceiitvatcel  Manure  is  no  longer  an 
experiment.  Three  years’  trial  has  proved  its  superiority 
over  all  other  fertilizers.  It  is  not  because  of  its 

VAI.UA1SI.E 

alone,  that  we  claim  its 

Curesit  FertiliKiMg  F©wer  ; 

it  is  also  in  the  Patent  process  tlirongli  wliicli  it 
passes  in  its  mannfactnre,  by  which  we  are  ena- 
Ided  to  concentrate  the  necessary  food  for  vegetation. 

lirucc’s  CosBceiati’iUed  Masaure 

was  first  brought  to  the  notice  of  the  Agriculturists  of  this 
couiUiy  in  the  year  18()2.  About  Fifty  Tons  were  sold 
daring  the  year,  direct  to  farmers,  with  satisfactory  results. 
The  following  year  (1S63)  orders  came  in  to  the  amount  of 
Foitp  Huiidrcd  Tons,  only  Two  Huiiclrccl  of 
wliich  could  be  furnished.  The  past  year  (1864)  we  sold  near¬ 
ly  Six  n«i»(lred  Tosis,  and  notwithstanding  the  severe 
drought  it  has  more  than  met  our  expectations.  In  order 
to  supply  the  demand  the  coming  season,  we  have  been 
obliged  to  enlarge  our  Factory,  and  with  improved  Ma¬ 
chinery  and  enlarged  facilities,  we  hope  to  be  able  to  man¬ 
ufacture, 

Two  Tiioxisaiacl  Tons. 

Those  who  liave  already  proved  the  value  of 

Bruce’s  Ooncentrated  Manure, 

and  those  desirous  of  testing  its 

FeB’SiSaxBBBg-  Powes’, 
are  CAUTIONED  from  purchasing  an  article  bearing 
the  name  of  Ilnice's  fertilizer ;  supposing  it  to  be  siuion 
pure,  as  sold  by  us.  The  article  sold  by  us  is  branded  on 
each  barrel, 

Hraace’s  Fateiat  EoiaceaiS rated 


Can  sent!  their 

Bntter,  Cheese,  Eggs,  Eiird,  Talloiv,  Ecans, 
Hops,  Flax,  Cotton,  Flour,  Grain,  Meal, 
Green  and  Dried  Fruits,  Furs,  Skins, 
Foiiltry,  Game,  Provisions,  Seeds, 
Sorghum,  Wool,  Potasli, 'ffobac- 
co.  Oils,  and  other  produce  to 

J®SIA1S  CASSFEMTS^IS, 

COMMISSION  MERCHANT, 

323  Washington-street,  Nc’iv-York. 

Near  Erie  Rail  Road  Depot. 

To  be  sold  at  the  bigbest  market  price.  Every  shipper  to 
him  will  receive  his  valuable  Weekly  Brice  Current  of  the 
New  York  Market  free. 

I  I 


Lester’s  Pure  G-round  Bone. 
Flare  Fea'aavisMa  €waiaBao. 

E.  F.  COE’S  SUPERPHOSPHATE  OF  LIME. 


Bruce’s  CojBceutratetl  FertiBizers. 

I*laster*9  etc. 


For  sale  In  quantities  to  suit  purchasers.  Send  in  tour 
Orders  early. 


R.  II.  ALLEN  &  CO., 
189  &  191  Water-st.,  New-York. 


Poudrette!  Poudrette! 

The  I.ODI  MANUFACTURING  COMPANY  with 
an  experience  of  Twenty-live  years,  being  the  oldest 
facturers  of  fertilizers  in  the  United  Slates,  again  offer  for 
«ale  a  uniform  article  of  Poudrette  at  low  prices.  While  the 
price  of  other  manures  has  advanced  from  25  to  50  per  cent., 
we  have  only  advanced  our  article  50  cents  per  bbl.,  and  the 
experience  of  thousands  ol  r-ustomers  who  liave  used  it.  at¬ 
tests  the  fact  tliat  it  is  now  by  far  tlie  cheapest  and  very  best 
manure  in  market,  and  particularly  adapted  to  Tobacco, 
Corn,  Potatoes  and  Garden  VegefaMes. 

The  Comnany  manufacture  also  Bone  Tafeu  (a  substitute 
for  Siiperpaosphate  and  Guano)  from  bones,  blood,  offal, 
night  soil,  and  Peruvian  Guano,  ground  fine.  Price  $50  per 
ton. 

A  pamphlet  containing  directions  for  use,  prices,  &c.,  may 
be  had  free  by  addressing  a  letter  to  the  Ofiice  of  the  Com¬ 
pany,  66  Courtlandt-street,  New-York. 


Ammoiiiatcd  Facific  €risano. 


MaiaMa*e. 

C.  W.  VAN  DOREN  &  CO., 

GBIFFIMI5  BBOTMEB  &  CO., 

58  &  60  Coui’tlandt-st.,  N.  Y. 

Mount  Lebanon,  Columbia  Co.,  N.  Y., 

Nov.  2,  1864. 

Crifllng,  Bi-othei'S  &  Co. 

Friends— Your  favor  asking  our  opinion  about  “Bruce's 
Concentrated  Manure  ”  is  received.  I  in  reply  would  say 
that  we  have  used  it  the  past  season  with  the  most  gratify¬ 
ing  results.  The  season  was  so  dry  that  we  could  not  test  it 
as  we  would  have  wished.  M’e  used  it  on  our  potatoes,  hoe¬ 
ing  it  in  after  they  were  up,  and  the  yield  was  greater  than 
by  any  concentrated  manure  we  liave  ever  used.  It  lias  well 
paid  the  investment  on  our  gardens.  For  most  crops  we 
prefer  it  to  the  Xo.  1  Peruvian  Guano.  We  shall  want  more 
of  it  the  coming  season.  Have  you  it  on  hand'i*  and  what 
Is  the  lowest  price.  Respectfully  yours, 

D.  C.  Beainaed. 

Mr.  D.  C.  Brainard.  the  writer  of  the  above  letter,  is  one 
of  the  Xeio  Lebanon  Shakers— o.  practical  man,  and  one  who 
tlioronglily  understands  agriculture  in  all  its  branches,  and 
can  appreciate  a  good  fertilizer. 

Grifflng,  Bro.  &  Co. 

Notwithstanding  the  heavy  advance  oil 
TVVENTY-EIVE  TO  FIFTY  PER  CENT, 
in  the  price  of  materials,  we  shall  sell 

Concenti-atecl  IWan'OLi’e, 

at  the  low  price  of 

^50  per  Ton. 

It  is  packed  in  barrels  weigliing  270  lbs.  each. 

ACCENTS  WANTEB, 

for  all  the  large  Towns  and  Cities  in  the 

XT  IN  I  O  IN. 

AGENTS  FOR  PHILADELPHIA,  PA., 
MICHENER  &  YOUNG, 

206  Market-street. 


A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phosphate  of  Lime ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  the  Trade. 

Pamphlets  wllh-copics  of  analysis  by  Dr.  .lackson.  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  llaltlmore,  and  testimonials 
ft-om  Bcientlflc  agriculturists,  showing  Us  value,  can  be 
ObtsJjied  IVom  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st.,  New-York. 


ORIFFIXO  BKOFMER  &  CO., 
Ocncral  Ag’euts, 
58  &  6©  Coui’tlanclt-st., 

New-York, 

Send  for  Circular. 


mVEKTORS,  MECHANICS,  AGRICUU 
TURISTS, 

ANNUAL  PROSPECTUS 
Of  the  cheapest  and  best  MBCHANICAI.  JOURSAIi 
in  the  World. 

A  new  Volume  of  which  commences  January  1,  1865. 

SCIENTIFIC  AMERICAN 


Thla  is  unquestionably  tbo 
most  popular  and  interesting 
journal  of  its  class  in  tho 
world.  It  has  been  published 
seventeen  years  and  has  a 
larger  circulation  than  any 
similar  journal  in  existence. 
It  is  a  weekly  paper  of  16 
pages,  and  is  devoted  to  Sci¬ 
ence,  Discovery,  Inven¬ 
tion,  Mechanics,  Manufac¬ 
tures,  and  the  whole  rang© 
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1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


63 


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THE  TRIBUNE  New-York. 


w- 


T 


HE  TRIBUNE  FOR  1805. 


PROSPECTUS. 


The  Military  and  Naval  successes  of  13r>4.  with  the  auspi¬ 
cious  result  of  our  Presidential  contest.  Inive  lifted  a  lieavy 
weight  from  the  breasts  of  the  Loyal  Millions  ot  our  coun¬ 
trymen.  It  is  now  felt  even  hy  those  who  have  been  dis- 
trustAil  and  faint-hearted,  that  the  Union  is  to  emerj^e 
triumphant  from  the  deadly  strife  whereinto  she  was  so 
wickedly  precipitated  hy  her  assailants,  and  that  Slavery,  lier 
relentless  foe,  is  to  encounter  the  fate  of  Haman.  The  perils 
of  foreip:n  interventK''n  and  of 'Western  insurrection  are  safe¬ 
ly  passed;  Auraiiam  Lincoln,  no  longer  assailable  as  tl>e 
choice  of  a  minoritv,  holds  tlie  helm  of  State  for  four  years 
louffer;  the  Rebellion,  palpahlv  weakened  by  its  defeats  and 
losses  during  the  year  now  closins:— with  its  credit  so  re¬ 
duced  that  its  purse-bearer  oflicially  declares  that  its  Treas¬ 
ury  Notes  can  only  he  excliamred  forcoin  atthe  rate  oftwen- 
ty-five  for  one,  while  its  bonds  command  but  six  cents  on 
the  dollar— but  awaits  the  blow  which  shall  soon  strike  the 
sword  from  its  parricidal  hand,  and  remit  its  master  spirit  to 
the  Justice,  or  it  may  he  to  the  clemencv.  of  a  sorely  wronired 
and  justly  incensed  but  forbearin'?  ami  magnanimous  Peo¬ 
ple.  Such  are  the  auspices  wliich  justifv  oiir  faith  that  the 
year  soon  to  open  will  see  the  Stars  and‘Strines  float  unchal¬ 
lenged  from  every  battlement  in  the  Repuhne,  and  the  per¬ 
fect  law  of  Liberty  for  All  immovably  imbedded  In  the  Con¬ 
stitution  of  our  Union. 

THE  NEW-YORK  TPJBUNE,  founded  in  1841,  will  enter 
upon  its  twenty-fourth  rear  with  quickened  hopes  and  en¬ 
larged  means  of  usefulness.  Its  principles  need  no  re-state- 
ment;  its  aims  arc  the  diffusion  of  Intelligence  and  the  in¬ 
culcation  of  a  spirit  of  Freedom  and  Humanity.  When  this 
truth  shall  have  been  generally  recognized  and  established 
as  the  basis  of  our  instil  ntions  and  polity,  that  injustice  to  the 
poorest,  the  weakest,  the  most  despised,  is  a  fearful  mistake 
—that  no  community  or  State  can  afford  to  wrong  even  its 
hnmblevSt  member— then  will  our  land  bask  once  more  in  the 
calm  sunshine  of  peace  and  prosperity. 

THE  TRIBUNE  has  for  the  last  year  been  published  with  hut 
small  profit  to  its  prop.dctors.  compared  with  the  vast  outlay 
and  labor  devoted  to  its  publication,  solely  because  of  the  de¬ 
preciation  of  our  CuiTcncv  below  the  siiecie  standard,  com¬ 
pelling  us  to  buy  paper  and  other  materials  at  a  cost  con¬ 
siderably  above  tlie  full  amount  received  from  our  subscri¬ 
bers.  On  our  weekly  edition,  the  net  loss  has  amounted  to 
many  thousands  of  dollars;  while  our  large  receipts  from 
Advertising  have  been  absorbed  by  the  extraordinory  ex¬ 
penses  for  Correspondence,  l  i'legrapliing,  &c.,  devolved  on 
us  by  the  War.  As  we  do  not  suppose  our  patrons  de.-ire  we 
should  work  for  them  at  our  own  cost,  and  prefer  no*  to  be 
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No.  154  Nassau-st.,  New-Yorlc, 

66  rf^HE  HUMAN  FACE  ®BVINE.’>-.4  Neiw 
M.  System  of  Physiot^nomy — Eyes,  Ears,  Nose.  Lips, 
^fouth.  Head,  Hair,  Hands,  Feet,  Skin,  with,  all  “Signs 
OF  (Character.”  a?id  How  to  Read  Them,  s^iven  in 

THE  PHR.ENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL  and  LIFE  ILLUS¬ 
TRATED  for  Jboo.  S.  R.  WELLS.  Editor.  Portraits  of  Re¬ 
markable  ^len,  in  every  calling,  illustrating  difl'erent  phases 
of  Human  Character,  the  sane  and  the  insane,  the  virtuous 
and  the  vicious- Physiognomy.  Ethnology,  Phrenology, 
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BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS 

[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  afr  the  Of 
fice  ot  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  Ail  of 
these  books  maybe  procured  in  making  up  a  library.  We 
Indicate  our  opinion  of  their  value  by  one  or  mort  Stars.] 
These  prices  are  only  good  for  orders  sent  previously  to 
March  1st. 

Allen’s  (L.  P.;  Rural  Architecture....* . $  i  50 

Allen’s  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book* . 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals . 

American  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia . 

American  Rose  Culturist . 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holly) . 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden _ *** . 

Beecher’s  (Hy  Ward)  Fruit  Flowers  and  Farming 


1  50 
1  00 
6  on 

30 
60 
1  50 
1  25 


Bement’s  Poulterer’s  Companion. ..  .** . 2  oo 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Fancier .  30 


.  30 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Encvclopedia .  1  50 

Y. - - VY..-,  r. -  ^ 

75 

2  00 
75 
75 
50 


Bonssingault’s  Rural  Economy. . 

Bridgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manuai . 

Bridgeman’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant . 

Bridgeman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor . 

Bridgeman’s  Florist’s  Guide . 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  (German) . . 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers _ * .  l  50 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures .  1  .50 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America _ * .  450 

Carpenters  and  Joiners'  Hand  Book. .(Holly) .  60 

Ciiorlton’s  Graue-Growei  's  Guide .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book....* .  60 

Cole’s  Veterinarian .  60 

Colman’s  Agriculture .  5  00 

Copeland’s  Countiy  Life .  3  .50 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper  . 75 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  50 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor, . .  .* .  l  50 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  of  the  Horse. ...(colored) .  5  00 

“  “  ”  _ (plain) .  3  50 

Domestic  Poultry  .  30 

Downing  s  Cottage  Residences . **  . 2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America....***.. , .  3  00 

Emplovment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny. . ..* .  1  50 

Every  Lady  her  own  Flower  Gardener .  30 

Farm  Record  for  3  years .  3  00 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener .  1  .50 

French’s  Farm  Drainage  .  ...* .  1  50 

Field’s  (Thomas  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  25 

Fish  Culture . .  l  50 

Flint  (Charles  L.)  on  Grasses....** .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming _ ***.., .  2  00 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist . *** .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist . *...  .  20 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding. .  .**.  .. .  100 

Gray’s >ianual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol..***..  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  00 

Guenon  on  Wliich  Cows .  75 

Hall's  (Miss)  American  Cookery .  l  25 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  &c . .  .5  00 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain . ** _  3  .'^O 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.**  4  50 

Herbert’s  Ilinis  to  Ilorsekeepers....*** .  i 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  hy  Cleveland .  .  1  50 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Wiicre  to  Find  One .  1  75 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,  ifcc .  . .  150 

Johnston's  ('atechism  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  80 

Johnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  23 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

Lani'stroth  on  the  Honev  Bee  ...■** .  2  00 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden _ \...  1  75 

l.enchar’s  Howto  Build  Hot-houscs .  1  50 

Liebig's  Familiar  J.etters  on  Chemistry .  50 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture .  125 

Linslcy’s  (I).  C.)  Morgan  Horses  .  l  50 

Manual  of  Agriculture  hy  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint.  1  ()0 

Mayliew’s  Ill natrated  Horse  Doctor  .  *** .  3  50 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management . ***.  ..  3  50 

McNiahon’s  American  (Jardener  , . .  .* .  2  50 

Mistakes  of  Educared  Men. . .  .** . ^ 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  75 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood _ ** . 2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record _ ** .  1  50 

Neill's  Practical  Gardener... .(Pardee) .  150 

Norton’s  Scientific  Asriculture .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  ana  Imphee . .  1  25 

Onion  Culture  ...*** .  20 

Om  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  COc....* . (papea*)  90 

Our  Hardy  Grapes .  25 

Pardee  oh  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . .  1  50 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves .  1  50 

Qniuby’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping _ *• .  1  50 

f)uincy  on  Soiling  Cattle . (paper) .  33 

Rabbit  Fancier .  30 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden _ ** .  3  00 

Rich’s  American  Architect . . .  6  00 

Rural  Atlairs _ (bound) _ 3  Vols _ each .  1  50 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of  3  Vols.  .morocco .  9  50 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols.. cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book .  60 

Skillful  Housewife  .  50 

Smith’s  Landscape  Gardening  . . .  1  50 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Cliildren** .  3  25 

Stephens’  Book  of  the  Farm.  .  .2  Vols .  6  00 

Stewart’s  (John)  Stable  Book .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough .  1  50 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture .  2  50 

Tobacco  Culture  ...*** .  25 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual _ ** .  1  50 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Affairs _ *  .  30 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages .  8  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture. .  1  50 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  1  ,50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . .  1  00 

Watson's  American  Home  Garden _ *** .  2  00 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) .  1  50 

Wheat  Plant  (John  Klippart’s) . .  1  50 

Yale  College  Agricultural  Lectures .  60 

Youatt  and  Snooner  on  the  Horse .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Martin  on  Cattle .  1  50 

Youatt  on  the  Hog. ...* .  100 

Youatt  on  Sheep .  1  00 

Tollmans’  Household  Science  .  ..***  .  l  75 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry _ * . .  1  75 


W 


»ASHFULNESS,  Diffidence,  Sensitiveness. — 

^C.auses  and  Cure.  Why  .are  you  timid  and  embarrassed  ? 
How  to  acquire  confidence.  See  Jan. — double — No,  Ulus, 
trated  rHRENOLOGTCADJour.NAU,  only  20  cents,  liy  first  iiosk 
Address  FOWLER  *  WELLS.  389  Broadway,  New  York. 

Krfli  Cash  will  be  paid  for  an  Original  Puzzle 
MEIIRYMAN’S  MONTHLY.  For  description 
^wbat  is  wanted  see  present  number  at  all  N^vsdealert 
Terms  $1  a  vear,  until  April  1.  after  that  $1.25.  J.  C.  HANES? 
&  CO..  109  Nassau-st.,  New-Tork. 


64 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


Contents  for  February,  1865. 

Advertisments  and  Advei  tiseis . 40 

Bachelor’s  Opinion  of  Recipes . 

pees— Apiary  in  February.. . 

§ees— Italianizing  in  Box  Hives.  - - .•••••;•• . 

Bovs  and  Girls’  Columns— Something  About  Dreams— 

If  You  Love  -Me,  Lean  Hard  ” — Colored  Men  in  the 
Array— Sheridan  Among  his  Soldiers-Petroieum  ; 
How  a  Farm  was  Soid — Problems  and  Puzzles  The 
Fisherman’s  Return-The  Siam  on  the  Carpet-Fii;e- 

.3  Illustrations .  .b5,  50 


side  Games. 


Bread— How  to  Make  Good.' . 53 

Commercial  Notes — Prices  Cuiient. .  •  .^4 

Cooking  -Economical  .  . . ■■■i. 

Corn— Diminutive  Variety . wyj 

Curious  Vegetable  Forms . 3  Illustrations  49 

Dog  Law— Form  of  Petition .  ■  -4- 

Farmers’  Club— Wapping  . ..  . 40 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  Febiuaiy  .....  .... 

Flower— Tlie  Butterfly. .. .  . . c'  '  V 

Flowers-Everlasting  (Helipterum  Sanfordu).  I llus.. 53 

Flowers— Trumpet  Honeysuc^kle  . I llustrated. 

Fruit  and  Vegetable-Tlie  Dilfereiice . 49 

Fruit  Garden  in  February . ^4 

Fruits  for  Illinois.... . ,, 

Gardens  for  the  Childrem  . 

Garden-Kitchen  in  February  . . . ,)y,tralrd 

German  Ivy  ISenecio  Mijcanoides)  . Illustrated . 

Goats-What  are  thev  Good  For?.. . . . « 

Graftiilg— When  is  a  'Tree  Grafted?... . 

Grapes— Iona  and  Israella— Explariation  . 3 

Grass— R.  L  Bent  and  Kentucky  Blue  _.  .  .  .  ..  .  . 4S 

Grasses— How  to  Distinguish  Species.. 4  Illustrations. Ao 

Gravel  Wall  Houses,  Barns,  etc  . 4i 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  February . ^4 

Hay-  Embargo  by  Governtnent . . . . y.r'rrr  A 

fiorses  and  Oxen-Driving  Together . Illustrated,  .ii 

Household  Notes  for  Februjiry . “4 

Houlfp7ilns"i7d%"edf.Ss:V^^ 

Hyacinths— Pi  op^a^tmg^.  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .^ ...  3  Yl lustrations  ..51 


[Business  Notices.] 


.  Illustrated. .40 
. 42 


Implements  for  VVeeaing. ......  < 

Livx  Stock  Trade  in  Nevv-Vork  foi  1864. 

M.aple  Sugar  Making..... . 

Milk,  Beef,  Labor,  No.  II ...  ■ .  • 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  February . p 

One  Acre  Eiiough-Sometimes . 4i 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  February.  . .  aa 

I'rchard-How  Established  by  a  Pioneer . 48 

Pears  Slieldon— Hi.stnrical  Notes . .  .  . . ; . ■>o 

Potatoes— Notes  on  Varieties.^  . .  ■  .  6  Illustrations .  .44 

Practical  Odds  and  Ends  for  Household . 54 

Premiums  for  Subscribers  in  . .  .  ■ . .  .  •  ■  •  •  ■  •  ■ 

Recipes  — Breakfast  Corn  Cakes — Good  Niitcakes 

F  inner’s  Cake— Improved  Hasty  Pudding— Unbolt¬ 
ed  Bread— Pickling  Hams  or  Beef-Biiked  Carrots— 
Soda  Crackers— Parsnip  Croquelles—Fish  Balls  .54-„5 

Road  Scraper— Convenient. . Illustrated.  .45 

Seeds— Care  in  Selection  Necessary . 54 

Sheep  Mania— Timely  Hints . 4S 

Sheep— Profits  of  . . .• . . 

Shelter  for  Animals— Expensive . .40 

Sink  for  Kitchen— Convenient . Illustrated  .53 

Sleigh  Ride— Family . 1 1  lustrated.. 43 

siiake  Nut . ••■2  Illustrations .  .4J) 

Sorghum  Culture  in  Massachusetts . 4» 

Siumr  from  Corn— Important  Discovery.... . « 

Tim  Blinker’s  Raid  Aniong  the  Pickle  Patches . 46 

VVntnan _ What  Palt'ioiic  Can  Do .  •  •  • 

Yards,  Front— Laying  Out . 4  Illustrations .  .50 

INDEX  TO  “  BASKET.”  OB  SllOBTEB  ARTICLES. 

Agricultural  Colleges. ..  .361  Maggots  in  Beans. . 37 

Am-’i  Cnllene  Midi  . 36  Manures,  Compost  . 06 

Annies  foi  Hoos  .  . 36  Manure,  FlaxShives.  etc.38 

Appiesjoi  noos----  n, m,,r,-,lrPssino.  -..’59 


Ashes  for  Potatoes . 36 

Asparagus  and  Asiies . 38 

Barley  on  Light  Soil . 36 

Bottles,  Cleaning  . 39 

Broom  Corn  Brush  . 08 

Brooms,  etc.,  Hanging  up. 39 

Bulbs,  Late  Planting . 38 

Caked  Bag,  Treatment.  ..38 

Catalogues  Received . 3^ 

Cemetery,  Woodlawii.. .  .3i 

Chick  Pea,Uses . 38 

Cions,  Keeping.. . . . 38 

Clover,  Fotir-leavd. . 39 

Clover  with  Oats . .39 

Coffee,  Massachusetts.... 38 
Cows,  Kicking . 38 

Cranberries, Upland . 

Currants.  Black . 3^ 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry.  .3< 

Editorial  Quarrels. . 36 

Falsehood  Exposed . 36 

Fibre,  China  Grass . 38 

Files.  Re-sharpening . 38 

Flax  and  Hop  Essays.  . .  37 

Frost  in  Pipes,  etc - ...38 

Grapes,  Best  Locality. ...37 

Harness  Buckles,  etc - 38 

Hedges  in  New  Jersey... 37 

Hogs  Poisoned .  36 

Hoop  Skirt  Trellises . 39 

Hot  Bed,  Double . 39 

Humbugs . 3 

Husk-Tearing  Machine.. 3 

Ice  Water  Cistern . 38 

Implements.  Price  of . 36 

Insects  on  Vines . 39 

Kale,  How  to  Cook .  3T 

Kyanizing . 38 

Labels,  Tin . 39 

Machine,  Clod-tearing.  .38 
Machine,  “Manufac.t’ng”.38 


Manure,  Top-dressing.  .-.."9 

Maple  Tree  Layers . 39 

Marshall  P.  Wilder . 37 

Orchards,  Cultivating  ...39 

Pansies,  Violets,  etc . 38 

Peach  Orchard  Crop . 37 

Peach,  Spring  Budding  ..37 

Peach  Tree  Brush . 39 

Peach  Tree  Layers .  39 

Peach  Trees,  Injured - 38 

Pear  Trees,  Exposure..  ,38 

Peddler,  Generous . 37 

Potatoes,  Boiling . 38 

Potatoes,  Bulkley’s . 38 

Potatoes,  Cuzco .  38 

Potatoes,  Small  Seed. ...38 
I’oultry  House,  Cheap... 36 

Productive  Ground. . 38 

Queries,  Sundry . 36 

Quinces  on  Clay . 36 

Rats  and  Harness . 37 

Rhubarb . 37 

Roses,  Remontant . 38 

Rust,  Preventing . 38 

Saws,  Horse-Power . 38 

Sorghum  Candy  — ..  ...39 
Soi  ghuniConvention,  Wis.36 

Sorghum  Culture . 37 

Sorrel,  Destroying . 39 

S.  School  Lessons . 37 

Steers,  Breaking — - - 36 

Strawberry  Distribution.. 37 
Strawberry  Propagation. 38 
Strawberries  for  N.  J  ...38 

Trees,  Best  to  Plant . 36 

Tritoma  Uvaria . 37 

Turnips  for  Hogs . 36 

Vegetables,  New . 37 

Wasps,  Gas  Tar  for . 39 

Water  Pipes,  Best . 39 

Wet  Days  at  Edgewood  37 


BXox*e  INcav  IMiaps,  Cliax’ts  and.  IPrints- 
The  New  maps  are  Ready. 

Andwe  are  ready  to  give  exclusive  County  Rights  to  the  right  men  for  our 

Great  Townshi|j  Maps  of  ]\rew  York  and  New  Jersey. 

These  are  the  largest,  latest,  fullest,  and  in  every  way  by  far  the  best  Maps  of  these  States  extant. 

.A-g-ents  YV^'anted  Everywhere  tor  onr  INew 

PaiioFUiiite  and  Military  Maps  ©f  tlie  U,  8. 

We  think  there  is  no  more  plainly  printed,  ornamental,  useful,  or  accurate  U.  S.  Map  yet  published,  than  this. 

The  U.  S.  and  N.  Y.  Maps  are  each  about  six  ft.  square.  Price  $7  each.  Size  of  N.  J.,  about  5x6  ft.  Price  $6.  Each 
is  mounted  on  muslin,  in  the  best  manner.  Either  Map  sent  by  Express  on  receipt  of  the  price. 

In  addition  to  these  and  other  expensive  Steel  and  Copper  plate  Maps,  we  pledge  ourselves  to  keep  the 
Targ-est,  I^ewest,  Clieapest,  most  attractive  aad  Salable 
ASSORTMENT  OF 

CHEAP,  COLOEED  MAPS,  CHARTS  AND  PRINTS  TO  SHIT  THE  TIMES, 

t.o  be  found  in  tliis  country. 

ITIcii  and  Women  who  want  Good  Work  and  Good  Fay,  should  not  fail  to  see  our  new  Price  List 
and  Circular. 

II.  n.  EEOYI>  CO-9  31  John-st.9  INe w-YTorh. 


P-\RSONS  &  CO., 

offer 

V  I  M  E  8 

o'*  all  the  leading  varieties  of  excellent  quality 
Among  them  are 

each,  per  doz.  per  100.  per  1000, 

Iona . .,..$1.50  $15.00  $100 


Allen’s  Hybrid. 

75 

7.00 

40 

Coiscoi’d,  1  year.. 

25 

2.50 

13  $100 

2  “ 

50 

4.00 

25 

©claware . 

50 

5.00 

25 

Foreign  Vines  of  all  the  sorts  and  finely  grown  at 

1  year.  $5  per  doz. ; 

$35  per  100. 

2  years,  8  “ 

5U  “ 

6k  |T  WILL 


PAY.”— AGENTS  WANTED  to 
sell  How  to  Write,  Talk,  Behave  and  do  Business. 
♦2.25.  Send  stamp  for  particulars,  to  M  ESSRS.  FOW¬ 
LER  &  WEI  LS,  389  Broadway,  New-York. 


In  addition  to  their  otlier 

FRUIT  TREES 

They  offer  PEAR  TREES  of  extra  size. 

They  commend  to  the  special  attention  of  nurserymen  their 
stock  of  choice 

embracing  nearly  200  varieties,  which  they  offer  at  low  rates : 
among  them  are 

CupitEssus  Lawsoniana . $6  per  doz. 

TlIUIOPSIS  nOREALIS .  6  “  “ 

Junipers . $33  per  100 

Aruok  VIT.E,  Siberian .  10  "  “ 

do  American .  6  “  “ 

PiCEA  Nordmaniana . 50  “  “ 

Pines,  Austrian . 20  “  “ 

do  Scotch,  large .  20  "  “ 

Upright  Yew,  quite  hardy . So  “  “ 

Norway  Spruce .  12  “  “ 

Golden  Yew . . . 

STiaSET  TREES,  large  and  liandsome. 

FLOWERING  SHRUBS  in  great  variety. 

ROSES,  Hybrid  Perpetual,  on  their  own  roots,  not  grafted 
or  budded,  $20  per  100. 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  health. 

STOVE  PLANTS  in  variety. 

RHODODENDRONS,  both  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
In  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  they  refer  to  their  Catalogues  for 
which  address  tliem  at 

Flushing,  near  New  York. 
Heury  A.  Heiser  Sons, 

NO.  44  PINE-STREET. 

Dealers  in 

COVERWMEMT  SECURITIES, 

BUY  AND  SELL 

QUARTERMASTERS’  CHECKS  AND  VOUCHERS, 
5-20  BONDS, 

I-YEAR  CERTIFICATES. 

7-30  LOAN,  AND  EVERV  FORM  OF  U.  S.  SECU¬ 
RITIES. 

We  invite  the  attention  of  Banks  and  parties  desiring 
short  investment  to  our  assortment  of  United  Slates  Six 
per  Cent.  Debt  Certificates.  We  have  them  on  hand  due 
in  every  month  of  the  year,  at  rales  that  pay  better  in¬ 
terest  than  any  other  security  in  the  market. 

A  Neglected  Cougli,  Cold,  or  Sore  Throat, 

which  might  be  checked  by  a  simple  remedy,  like 
“  Brown's  Bronchial  Troches,”  if  allowed  to  progress 
may  terminate  seriously.  For  Bronchitis,  Asthma, 
Catarrh,  and  Consumptive  Coughs,  '‘The  Troches”  are 
used  with  advantage,  giving  oftentimes  immediate  relief. 


B.  K.  IBLI^S9 
Seed.  Catalogue  aad 

Guide  to  the  Flower  and  Kitchen  Garden. 

The  Eleventh  Edition  enlarged  and  improved.  Just 
published,  contains  One  Hundred  Pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  with  many  beautiful  illustrations, 
and  a  descriptive  list  of  upward  of  Two  Thousand 
varieties  of  Flower  and  Vegetable  Seeds,  in¬ 
cluding  many  charming  novelties,  now  offered  for 
the  first  time  in  this  country,  with  explicit  directions  lor 
their  culture,  also  a  list  of  upwards  of 
One  Hundred  varieties  of  French  Hybrid 
Gladiolus,  and  other  Summer  Plowei-ing  Bulbs— 
to  which  is  added  a  list  of  a  few  of  the  choicest  varieties  ol 
Grapes,  Strawberries,  Etaspbcri'ies,  and  other 
small  Pi-uits,  Bedding  Plants,  etc.,  etc.,  culti¬ 
vated  at  ills  gardens ;  with  much  other  useful  Information 
upon  the  subject  of  gardening  generally,  which  will  be  found 
useful  to  the  amateurs,  as  well  as  those  who  are  about  to 
commence  the  delightful  occupation  of  gardening.  It  will 
be  mailed  post-paid  to  all  applicants  enclosing  25  cents. 
Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 

The  Fatciit  Sewing  flipper 

Takes  out  n  seam  taster  than  a  sewing  machine  can 
make  it,  witli  less  danger  of  cutting  than  by  knife  or 
scissors.  It  rips  machine  or  hand  sewing  equally  vtell. 
Every  Lady  wants  one.  Great  chance  for  Agents. 

Price  Fifty  Cents,  sent  post  paid,  by  mail.  Lib 
eral  discount  by  the  dozen. 

Address  H.  LEE,  111  Fulton-st.,  New-York  City. 

ISAACSEN’S  PHOSPHOEIC  PASTE, 

For  the  Desti’uctiou  of  Rats,  Mice,  aucl 

Roaches.  Depot  40  Pulton-st,  Neiv  York. 

HE  HERALD  OF  HEALTH  AND  JOURNAL 
OF  FHTSICAL  CULTURE  should  be  in  the  hands  ol 
every  invalid  in  tlie  land,  and  all  who  value  Physical  perfec¬ 
tion  and  bodily  symmetry.  It  treats  on  all  subjects  relating 
to  bodily  development  and  the  laws  of  life.  $1.50  a  vear,  IS 
cts.  a  number.  Send  for  it  for  1SG5,  and  you  will  never  be 
sorry.  Address  MILLER  &  WOOD. 

_ _ 15  Laiglit-st.,  New-York. 

A  SCOTCH  PLOW,  new,  first  premium  taken  at 
World’s  Fair,  for  sale.  Address  J.  McCLEVE,  Hastings- 
upon  Hudson,  N.  Y. 

^.gririilturist. 

For  the  Farm,  Garden,  and  Household. 

A  THOROUOK-ooiNa,  RELIABLE,  and  PRACTICAL 
Journal,  devoted  to  the  different  departments  of  SOIL 
CULTURE— such  as  growing  field  CROPS  ;  orchard 
and  GARDEN  FRUITS;  garden  VEGETABLES  and 
FLOWERS ;  trees,  plants,  and  flowers  for  the 
LAWNorY’ARD;  care  of  DOMESTIC  ANIMALS, 
etc.,  and  to  HOUSEHOLD  LABORS,  with  an  interesling, 
instructive  department  for  CHILDREN  and  YOUTH. 
The  Editors  are  all  practical  WORKING  MEN. 
The  teachings  of  lAe  Agriculturist  are  confined  to  no 
State  or  Territory,  but  are  adapted  to  all  sections  of  the 
country — it  is  for  the  whole  American  Continent, 
TEKMS  (in  advance)  ;  $t,50  per  year  ;  Four 
Copies  one  year  for  S5  ;  Ten  Copies  oneyear  for  $418 1 
Twenty  or  more  Copies  one  year  for  $1  each. 
^^Add  to  the  above  rates:  Postage  to  Canada,  12  cents; 
to  England  and  France,  24  cents  ;  to  Germany,  36  cents. 
Postage  anywhere  in  the  United  States  and  Territories 
must  be  paid  by  the  subscriber,  ami  is  only  three  cents  a 
quarter,  if  paid  in  advance  at  the  office  where  it  is  received. 
Address  communications  to  the  Publisher  and  Proprietor, 
ORANGE  JUDD  41  Park-Row.  New-York  City, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  TUB 


ICarm,  Grardeii,  and.  Honseliold. 


“AGUICIILTCUE  IS  THE  MOST  1IEALTIIF0L,  MOST  USEFUL,  ANI»  MOST  NOBLE  EMFLOVMENT  OF  MAX.”-\V*BHmoTon. 


OKAW«E  .151  DO,  A.M., 

FUBLISHEK  AND  PKOPBIETOB. 
Offic®,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

PoblisliLed.  also  in  Crerman  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


SI. 30  PER  awbtxtm:,  iisr  advance- 

SINGLE  NUMBER,  15  CENTS. 
4Copies  roi-S5;  10  for  Si;?;  20  or  more,  9 1  cacti. 


VOLUME  XXTV— No.  3. 


NEW- YORK,  MAROH,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  218. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Consress  in  tlie  year  1864,  By 
Orakge  .Joni).  in  tlie  Clerk’s  Ottice  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  tlie  Sontliern  District  of  Xew-York. 

other  .lournals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  if  each  article  be  credited  to  American  Agricnlluriit. 


Contents  for  March,  1865. 

Advertisers— Unreliable  Excluded.. . . . ..(57 

ARriciiltiiral  Society— New  York  Slate.... . .69 

Apples— Good  Early  Bearing . .  . . 84 

Bachelor  in  the  Household.... . 8, 

Bees — .\piary  in  March . . . .  . . 67 

Bog  Land — Reclaiming . . . .  . '6 

Book  List  for  Farmers  etc . 68 

Boy.s  and  Girls’  Columns— Wliat  makes  the  Wind  Blow 
— Book-keeping  for  Boys  and  Girls— Cure  of  the 
Drunkard — Bragging — What  Kind  of  Puzzles  to 
Send— About  PviblishingNames— Problems  and  Puz- 
2les— About  Organ  Grinder.'- Tlie  Fate  of  tlie  Elm — 

A  Useful  Dream— The  Heroic  Switch  Tender — 

Tough  Pies . . . 3  I liustrafions.  .8^90 

Cliiiiese  Magnolia . .  Illustrated.  86 

Cions — Best  Time  to  Cut . 81 

Climbing  Fumitory— Alleghany  Wno. .  ...Illustrated. 

Country  Parson  on  Gardening.  . . 84 

Ea.sy  Chair — Home-made . .  ....  Illustrated.. %1 

Evergreen  Hedges — Management . 85 

Farm  Work  in  March.... . 65 

Fence  Posts — Removing . . . Illustrated.  .11 

Fire  Wood— Preparing  for  Year . 2  Illustrations.. S2 

Flax  Culture— New  Work  on...... . .  ..  68 

F’lower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  March........ . 67 

Flovi  ers — Chinese  Wistaria . . . .  / tlustrated.. 83 

Flowers— Making  Hollyhocks  Useful . 87 

Fruit  Garden  in  March . . . 67 

Garden  Frame  or  Pit — How  Made . 83 

Garden— Kitchen  in  Marcli . 66 

Grafting  Wax — Substitute  for .  . . . . 81 

Grape  Planting  this  Spring . 85 

Grapery,  Cold — Experience  with . 84 

Grapery,  Cold — Notes  for  March . . . 67 

Grapes — Rogers’ Hybrids . .  .85 

Grass— Distinguishing  Species.. II — 5  Illustrations.. 19 

Gravel-Wall  or  Concrete  Buildings..... .  ...78 

Green  and  Hot  Houses  in  March . . . 67 

Hop  Culture — Prize  Essay - 2  Illustrations . .IH-IZ-H 

Houses — Cheap  and  Convenient . 4  lllustration.s..1S 

Houses — Suggestions  About.  . . . 88 

Implements,  Seeds,  etc. — Procure  Early . 75 

Market  Farm — Profitable  English..... ........  ......81 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes.... . .....68 

Meals— What  to  Get  for  Variety . . . 88 

Milk,  Labor,  and  Beef,  No.  Ill . . . 77 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  March . . . 65 

Oats — Bad  Management  in  Cultivation . 77 

Orcliard  and  Nursery  in  March.. . . . 66 

Pear  Trees— Doctoring.... . . — . . 85 

Practical  Ollds  and  Ends  for  Household.. . 68 

Preparing  for  Field  Labors . . . .....81 

Recipes — Cream  Pie — Spanish  Cream — Good  Bread 
Pudding — Chocolate  Blanc  Mange — Dishes  for  the 
Sick  Room — Crust  Porridge— Water  Gruel— Corn 

B  read  . . . . .  88-S9 

Root  Cutter — Effective . . . . . Illustrated.  .11 

Roses — Best  Varieties....  . . ..81 

Sheep— Improved  American  Merino. . Illustrated.. 15 

Sheep— March  and  April  Lambs . . . 75 

Silk  Worm — The  Ailanthus  a  Failure . ...76 

Soap,  Hard— How  to  Make . 88 

Squash — Notes  on  Yokohama  . . . 82 

Sw'ill  Barrel— Convenient  Portable . Illustrated.. 80 

Tim  Bunker's  Raid  Among  the  PicklS  Patches.  .II _ 80 

Tomatoes— New  Varieties . .  ..82 

Trees  for  the  Prairies . .  .  . .86 

Washing  Machines — A  Good  One . Illustrated.. 87 

Wells — Horizontal  or  Side-Hill . . . .  76 

Whilewash— Preparing  for  Spring . ...87 

Willow,  White — Success  with.... . . ....76 

INDEX  TO  “  BASKET, 

Advertisements,  Good.. ..69 
Adv’inents,  Petroleum..  69 
Agricultural  Department.71 
Ammobium,  Sowing. ...  .71 

Animals,  Food  of.. . 70 

Beans.  Cloncord.. . . . . 71 

Bee-Keepers’  Book . 72 

Broom  Corn,  Dwarf. . 70 

Brush  for  Peas . 71 

Bulbs,  Cultivation . 71 

Camellia,  New . . . 72 

Camellias,  Fine. . 71 

Canada  Tiii.stles . 70 

Catalogues  Received  ..  69 

Caterpillars,  Tent . 72 

Cattle  Breeders’  Society.. 69 

Cattle,  Native  Breed . 70 

Cauliflowers  in  Winter.. 71 
Christian  Commission.. .72 


'  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


Clover  with  Oats . 70 

Cow  Milking  Herself.... 70 

Cranberry,  Upland.. .....71 

Currant.  Black  Naples... 71 
Death  of  an  Ag’l  Editor.  .69 
Ducks,  Best  Breeds. ....70 

Farmers,  Laboring...... 70 

Fence  Posts.  Setting..... 70 

Flowers,  Novelties . .71 

Fruit  Growers’  Guide... .69 

Fuller’s  Removal . 71 

Grape  Grafting . ..72 

Grapes,  Del.  Cuttings..  .71 

Grapes  for  Michigan . 71 

Grass  Named.. . . 71 

Greeley  Fruit  Prizes _ 71 

Gum  Spring  Drill. . 72 

Horse,  $37,500 . .70 

Horses,  Glandered . .69 


Indian  Corn,  Fine . 701 

Manure,  Applying  Coarse.70 
Manure,  Leather  Scraps..70| 
Manuring  with  Clover... 70j 

Maple  Sugar  Moulds . 69| 

Meats,  Keeping  Smoked. 72 

Mole.s,  Repelling . 71 

A’ewton’s  Newspaper. ..  .72 

Number,  Large . 69 

Oats  in  Succession . 70 

Onion  Culture. . . . . 71 

Onions,  Manure  for . 71 

Peach  on  the  Willow.. .  .71 

Pears  on  Thorn.. . 71 

Peas,  Soaking . ...71 

Plant  Named . .71 

Plaster  and  Bone  Dust... 70 


Potatoes,  Bulkeley’s.. . .  70 
Potatoes,  Experiment.. .  .70 

Potatoes,  Fluke . 70 

Rats  Gnawing  Harness.. TO 

Rose  Cullurist . 69 

Saw,  Horse- Power . 71 

Sap  Bucket  Hook . 72 

Seed,  How  Sluch . 71 

Sheep,  Prolific. . . 70 

Spring  Greens . 72 

S.  S.  Paper.  Good . 72 

Steers  Turning  Yoke . 70 

Strawberry  Prefniums _ 69 

Strawberries,  Tribune _ 71 

Siiperpliosphate,  ApplyingTO 

Teachers’  Agencies . 72 

Wheat  without  Plowing.. 70 


Hotes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

Dreary  -winter  is  passing  away,  and  joyous 
spring  again  comes  to  cheer  and  gladden.  In 
many  localities,  where  the  March  number  of  the 
Agriculturist  will  find  its  way,  the  music  of  the 
groves  and  the  sound  of  lowing  herds  and  bleating 
flocks  may  be  heard,  while  in  other  regions  the 
fields  and  meadows  are  covered  with  snow,  and 
desolation  reigns.  With  March,  farmers  in  some 
of  the  States  commence  farming  operations, 
Avhile  in  others  chilling  winds  and  pelting  storms 
confine  the  husbandman  to  the  in-door  labors 
of  the  farm.  In  one  State  the  soil  will  be  plowed 
and  the  seed  put  in  for  various  crops,  but  in 
some  others  the  fertile  fields  and  the  babbling 
streams  will  still  be  hound  in  icy  fetters.  Every¬ 
thing  should  be  on  the  march  towards  improve¬ 
ment.  Should  the  programme  of  farming  ope¬ 
rations  for  the  season  not  have  been  already  com¬ 
pleted,  let  it  be  done  without  delay.  If  a  good 
system  of  rotation  has  not  been  already  adopt¬ 
ed,  plan  it  at  once.  Where  no  field  labor  can 
yet  be  performed,  put  every  thing  in  order  to 
do  it  as  soon  as  weather  and  soil  are  favorable. 
There  are  hundreds  of  good  farmers  who  do 
not  know  the  great  value  of  a  crop  of  peas.  They 
have  never  raised  a  crop,  and  they  do  not  un¬ 
derstand  how  to  use  them  up  advantageously. 
Procure  good  seed,  in  time  to  have  it  ready  to 
sow  when  the  soil  is  dry  enough  to  plow,  and 
put  in  a  few  acres  of  peas  instead  of  barley, 
oats,  or  Indian  corn.  Peas  will  leave  the  ground 
in  an  excellent  condition  if  the  soil  be  well 
prepared  for  them,  and  if  sowed  at  the  proper 
time.  They  will  be  found  excellent  food  for  all 
kinds  of  stock,  and  there  is  no  better  meal  for 
feeding  milch  cows,  or  sows  that  are  raising 
young  pigs,  for  the  purpose  of  producing  an 
abundant  flow  of  milk,  than  an  equal  quantity  of 
good  peas  and  Indian  corn  ground  into  meal. 

What  Crops  will  you  Raise  f — What  will 
your  soil  produce;  or  what  kinds  of  grain, 
grass,  or  roots  appear  to  be  best  adapted  to 
the  kind  of  soil,  or  what  kinds  of  grain  or 
other  crops  have  grown  for  several  years  past 
on  the  soil  ?  These  are  the  questions  that  every 
farmer  ought  to  consider  before  he  decides  what 
kind  of  crops  he  will  raise  during  the  coming 
season.  A  farmer  should  endeavor,  as  far  as  may 
be  practicable,  to  adapt  the  right  kind  of  crops 
to  his  soil  rather  than  to  adapt  the  soil  to  the 


crops.  If  the  soil  is  not  adapted  to  oil  her  winter 
or  spring  wheat,  do  not  attempt  to  raise  it.  If 
the  soil  is  a  good*wheat  soil  and  it  has  jiroduced 
more  wheat  in  years  past  than  any  other  grain, 
it  may  he  Avell  to  try  some  other  crop  that  is 
also  adapted  to  the  soil,  which  will  return  per¬ 
haps  as  much,  or  more  than  a  crop  of  wheat. 

Draining.— Before  the  soil  is  fit  to  plow,  let  it 
he  examined  for  the  purpose  of  ascertaining 
whether  or  not  some  portions  of  it  may  not  b( 
drained  very  advantageously,  where  it  is  ex¬ 
cessively  wet.  Let  ivet  portions  of  a  field  be 
staked  out  and  drains  cut  for  tile,  stone  or  wood. 
During  the  month  of  March  along  line  of  under- 
drain  may  be  made  before  the  soil  is  fit  to  plow, 
if  the  proprietor  only  has  energy  enough  to  lay 
out  the  work  and  commence  it  at  once.  If  it  he 
delayed  until  the  soil  is  fit  to  be  plowed,  and 
other  work  begun,  the  draining  will  not  be  done. 

Cattle. — Begin  to  increase  the  amount  of  meal 
fed  daily  to  all  fattening  animals.  Bullocks  and 
dry  cows  that  are  designed  for  early  beef  should 
he  well  fed,  watered  and  protected  from  storms 
during  this  month.  Indian  meal  and  oil  meal 
fed  now  to  fattening  animals  will  start  them  right 
and  return  a  good  profit  next  June  in  early  beef. 

Horses. — Give  horses  daily  exercise,  either  by 
turning  them  loose  in  a  yard  for  a  few  hours,  or 
by  driving  them  in  the  harness.  Mares  with 
foal  should  be  handled  with  great  care,  and  if 
there  is  much  snow  and  ice  they  should  be  sharp 
shod  to  prevent  their  slipping  down,  which 
would  be  very  liable  to  cause  slinking.  Feed 
breeding  mares  a  pint  of  unbolted  wheat  flour 
daily  in  connexion  with  their  other  food,  as  a 
small  quantity  of  wheat  flour  is  more  highly  es¬ 
teemed  than  any  other  grain  by  experienced 
horse  breeders  for  developing  the  growing  festus. 

Houses. — Paint  dwelling  houses  and  any  other 
buildings  during  this  month  as  the  pores  of  the 
wood  and  sun-shrinks  are  now  closed  and  the 
paint  will  form  a  more  durable  coating  on  the 
surface  than  if  applied  in  hot  weather. 

Implements  and  Tools. — Begin  in  good  time  to 
procure  new  tools  and  implements  of  husband¬ 
ry,  and  to  repair  old  ones.  Todd’s  Young  Farm¬ 
er’s  Manual  treats  of  the  mechanical  part  of  ag¬ 
riculture  and  edge  tools  and  implements  of  bus 
bandry,  giving  many  useful  hints.  See  book  list. 

Manures. — Spread  horse  manure  over  the 
heap  and  never  allow  it  to  heat  and  become  fire- 
fanged.  Haul  manure  to  distant  fields  while 
there  is  sleighing,  or  before  the  ground  has 
thawed,  when  the  soil  would  be  so  wet  that  it 
would  be  injurious  to  drive  over  it  and  when  a 
team  would  bo  unable  to  haul  off  a  load.  See 
that  the  rain  from  the  eaves  of  buildings  or  from 
any  other  source  does  not  wash  away  the  solu¬ 
ble  portions,  the  best  part  of  barn  yard  manure. 

Peas  and  Oats. — The  oats  keep  the  peas  more 
erect  than  they  would  otherwise  grow,  and 
as  they  both  ripen  at  about  the  same  time, 
the  yield  per  acre  is  usually  much  greater  than 
if  either  were  sowed  alone.  There  is  no  better 


66 


AMERICAN  AG-mCULTUIlIST. 


[Makch, 


feed  for  young  swiue,  horses,  neat  cattle  of 
all  kinds,  and  sheep,  than  peas  and  oats.  Seed 
ma3'  be  obtained  bj'  the  barrel  or  sack  of  seed 
dealers  in  most  cities  and  large  towns. 

Fotatoi's. — Assort  potatoes  and  feed  out  the  small 
ones  to  stock  ;  lay  the  best  aside  for  seed.  See 
some  hints  on  how  to  raise  early  potatoes  under 
the  Kitchen  Garden  Calendar. 

ifoots.— Every  animal  slioukl  be  fed  a  few  roots 
daily.  Save  a  few  of  the  best  to  bo  planted  out 
/or  seed.  If  you  have  never  yet  raised  roots,  pro¬ 
cure  seed  and  make  arrangements  for  an  experi¬ 
ment  with  a  crop  of  them  the  coming  season. 

Stones.— Both  large  and  small  ones  may  be  hauled 
otl'the  Held  as  soon  as  thawed  loose,  before  the  soil 
has  become  soft.  If  the  ground  is  soft,  pry  up  the 
large  stones  on  meadows  and  place  billets  of  wood 
or  small  stones  beneath  them  so  that  they  may  be 
hauled  off  as  soon  as  snow  has  Mien,  or  the  ground 
will  bear  up  a  team.  Remove  brush,  logs,  and 
other  rubbish  from  fields,  if  likely  to  be  in  the  way 
of  the  i)low. 

Sii'hie. — Separate  sows  that  will  farrow  this 
mouth,  from  other  swine.  At  least  two  weeksbe- 
fore  their  time  prepare  a  warm  and  clean  sleeping 
apartment,  and  make  tiie  bed  of  cut  straw,  in  the 
middle  of  the  floor,  to  prevent  overlying  of  the 
young  pigs.  Do  not  feed  too  high  before  the  young 
pigs  are  ten  days  old,  but  give  a  few  feeds  of  raw 
roots  of  some  kind  before  and  after  farrowing. 

Stables.— As  the  warm  weather  comes  on,  see  that 
stables  are  thoroughly  clc.aned  out  and  well  littered 
and  ventilated,  but  horses  should  not  be  exposed 
to  cold  air  currents,  especially  at  night. 

Sheep.— Talie  extra  care  of  sheep  during  this 
month.  Separate  all  feeble  ones  from  the  main 
flock,  so  that  every  one  may  receive  a  little  grain 
and  roots  daily  in  connection  with  other  food. 
See  article  on  page  75.  Remember  that  every  early 
lamb  is  worth  raising  even  at  some  extra  care. 

Trees. — As  soon  as  the  frost  is  out  of  the  ground, 
ornamental  trees  may  be  transplanted,  and  if  the 
soil  is  in  order,  fruit  trees  also.  Drain  the  soil 
thoroughly,  and  pirlvcrize  deeply  for  all  kinds  of 
trees  and  shrubbery;  manure  will  usually  bo  needed. 

Water. — Look  carefully  over  the  farm  when  there 
is  a  great  amount  of  surface  water,  and  see  that  it 
does  not  run  across  recently  plowed  fields,  and 
wash  away  the  soil.  Turn  small  streams  of  muddy 
water  from  highwaj's  upon  meadows  and  pastures  ; 
they  carry  with  them  much  fertilizing  matter,  and 
will  increase  the  crop  of  grass  for  years. 

llVtoat.— Procure  in  time  good  seed  of  spring  wheat, 
of  the  best  farmers.  Get  the  lact  year’s  wheat  flour¬ 
ed  in  order  to  have  bran  for  feeding. 

Hood.— Improve  every  stormy  and  leisure  day  in 
preparing  fire  wood  for  next  summer.  See  page  75. 

Weeds. — Rally  all  the  available  force  of  the  farm, 
and  with  sharp  hoes  cut  all  the  bull  thistles,  tea¬ 
sels,  mullein,  and  other  biennial  plants  that  will 
mature  the  seeds  the  coming  season.  Cut  them 
about  two  inches  below  the  surface  of  the  soil;  the 
surface  water  will  stand  in  the  little  excavations 
and  enter  the  roots  and  destroy  them. 

Work  iiJ  Ike  Orckard  and  STiirscrj’'. 
— Trees  at  planting  time  excite  our  liveliest  sympa¬ 
thies,  for  between  the  hard  usage  they  get  in  being 
taken  up  in  the  nursery  and  the  neglect  they  re¬ 
ceive  at  the  hands  of  many  planters,  they  often 
have  a  hard  struggle  for  existence.  At  the  ordina¬ 
ry  prices  for  trees,  we  can  hardly  expect  of  the  nur¬ 
seryman  more  than  ordinary  care,  and  under  the 
best  circumstances  a  tree  comes  out  of  the  ground 
with  much  fewer  roots  than  it  had  while  it  stood  in 
the  nursery  row.  This  root  pruning  would  not  be 
of  so  much  consequence  if  the  majority  of  people 
did  not  set  it  out  just  as  it  is  received  and  leave  it 
to  survive  or  perish.  When  it  is  considered  that  in 
the  growing  tree  the  absorbing  surface  of  the  roots 
is  in  exact  relation  to  the  evapor.ating  surface  of 
the  leaves,  it  will  be  seen  that,  when  in  taking 
trees  up  w'c  cut  a  part  of  the  roots,  this  balance  is 
destroyed.  When  such  trees  are  planted  out,  the 
the  roots  are  unable  to  supply  the  demand  of  the 
leaves  produced  from  the  numerous  buds  upon  the 


branches.  The  consequence  is,  each  bud  puts  out 
a  few  leaves,  and  though  the  tree  may  retain  its 
vitality  through  the  season,  no  vigorous  growth  is 
made,  and  it  is  often  some  years  before  the  tree 
recovers  from  the  shock  of  removal.  While  we  do 
not  mean  to  say  that  nurserymen  never  send  out 
worthless  stock,  we  believe  that  much  of  the  poor 
growth  of  young  orchards  is  due  to  want  of  care 
and  knowledge  on  the  part  of  the  planter.  Those 
who  buy  trees  are  apt  to  look  more  to  that  which 
is  above  ground  than  to  that  which  goes  below  the 
surface,  and  are  more  taken  with  quantity  of 
branches  than  quantity  and  quality  of  roots.  It  is 
difficult  to  convince  such  persons  that  the  tree  will 
be  all  the  better  at  the  end  of  the  season  if  it  is 
made  to  show  less  of  branches  at  planting  time. 
Get  all  the  roots  possible  from-the  nurseryman,  cut 
off  all  the  bruised  ones  and  smoothly  cut  the  ends 
of  those  severed  in  taking  up.  Then  after  remov¬ 
ing  any  irseless  branches,  cut  back  all  of  last  year’s 
growth,  leaving  only  one-half  to  one-third.  It 
will  come  hard  to  do  this,  but  it  is  necessary  to  get 
a  good  growth.  In  cutting,  have  reference  to  the 
future  shape  of  the  tree,  and  cut  to  a  bud  pointing 
in  the  direction  where  a  branch  will  be  most  desir¬ 
able.  Don’t  buy  cheap  trees;  it  is  poor  economy 
to  save  a  few  dollars  on  an  orchard  by  getting  poor¬ 
ly  grown  trees  to  start  with.  Don’t  believe  the 
large  stories  told  of  new  varieties  by  glib-tongued 
tree  peddlers  who  showa  collection  of  highly  color¬ 
ed  plates  and  talk  fruits  wnsely,  though  they  may 
have  never  planted  a  tree  in  their  lives. 

Cherry  Trees. — Plant' early  if  the  soil  is  open,  and 
attend  to  any  grafting  the  last  of  this  month  or  early 
in  next  month.  The  cions  should  be  freshly  cut. 

Cuttings  from  currants  and  shrubs,  started  thus, 
must  be  made  before  the  buds  start.  Plant  out  those 
made  last  autumn  as  early  as  a  place  can  be  prepared. 

Girdled  Trees. — These  may  often  be  saved  by  the 
use  of  a  plaster  of  cow  dung  and  clay  or  loam  bound 
on  with  a  cloth.  Put  on  a  plenty  to  retain  moisture. 

Grafting. — Root  grafting  should  be  got  out  of  the 
way  as  soon  as  possible,  and  preparations  made  for 
grafting  trees  in  the  ground.  Cut  cions,  and  see 
note  on  cions  and  grafting  clay  given  on  page  81. 

Insects. — If  any  of  the  twigs  appear  as  if  they  had 
a  swollen  place  upon  them,  an  examination  will 
probably  show  that  the  apparent  swelling  is  a  clus¬ 
ter  of  the  eggs  of  the  tent  caterpillar.  This  insect 
glues  its  eggs  to  the  twigs,  in  a  broad  ring.  If  these 
are  found,  remove  at  any  cost  of  time  and  trouble. 

Manure. — Surface  manuring  is  now  practised  by 
our  best  orchardists.  The  manure  may  be  carted 
out  and  applied  while  the  ground  is  frozen. 

Orchards. — Wash  the  trees,  if  the  wmather  is  suit¬ 
able,  as  recommended  last  month.  If  pruning  must 
be  done  before  summer,  do  it  now.  The  weight  of 
authority  is  in  favor  of  summer  pruning. 

Planting. — The  trees  should  have  been  ordered  by 
this  time,  but  if  postponed  until  now,  do  it  at  once. 
In  ordering  apple  trees  it  is  well  to  recollect  the 
value  of  sweet  varieties  as  food  for  stock.  Drain¬ 
ing  will  always  pay  in  the  orchard,  and  the  drains 
should  be  made  before  planting.  The  land  may  be 
staked  out  and  the  holes  made  at  any  time  when 
the  season  is  mild  enough. 

Seeds. — Order  tree  seeds  for  planting  this  spring. 
Those  kept  over  winter  in  boxes  of  earth  should 
not  be  sown  until  the  soil  is  warm. 

Stocks. — Those  budded  last  year  may  be  cut  back 
to  within  three  inches  of  the  bud  where  the  bud  re¬ 
mains  bright  and  appears  to  have  united  or  “taken.” 

Transplanting  of  all  hardy  shrubs  and  trees  may 
be  done  as  soon  as  the  soil  is  in  working  order. 


Kitclsen  Garden. — As  ■we  ■write  the 
calendar  for  March,  there  seems  but  little  prospect 
that  gardening  operations  will  commence  early,  as 
the  weather  is  that  of  mid-winter,  and  we  have  let¬ 
ters  before  us  from  places  where  snow  is  five  feet 
on  the  level.  Our  directions  are  made  to  be  in  or¬ 
der  whenever  winter  breaks  up  and  the  ground 
opens,  and  it  is  not  to  be  supposed  that  the  calen¬ 
dar  will  be  followed  blindly  for  out-of-door  work. 
Usually  there  is  little  gained  by  too  great  a  hurry. 

Artichoke. — Remove  winter  protection  and  fo  'k 


in  manure.  If  mure  plants  arc  wanted,  remove  off¬ 
sets  and  set  in  rich  soil,  4  feet  apart  each  way. 

Asparagus. — Rake  the  eoarsci-  part  of  the  cover¬ 
ing  from  old  beds  ami  carefully  fork  in  the  finer 
portion.  In  making  new  ones  it  is  best  to  plant  in 
narrow  beds  5  feet  wiile  with  two  feet  alleys  be¬ 
tween.  This  enables  the  crop  to  be  taken  and  the 
beds  to  be  cared  for  without  trampling  on  thorn. 
Work  the  soil  18  or  20  inches  deep  and  put  in  an 
abundance  of  manure.  Set  one  or  two-year-old 
roots  one  foot  apart  each  way,  making  three  rows 
to  a  bed.  Set  crowns  4  inches  below  the  surface. 

Beets. — Sow  EarlyTurnip  or  Bassano  in  a  warm  rich 
spot,  as  soon  as  the  season  allows,  in  rows  1  foot 
apart.  It  is  best  to  sprout  the  seed  before  sowing. 

Cabbage. — Sow  in  hot-bed.  The  Early  York  is 
the  common  market  sort,  but  the  Cannon  Ball  is 
highly  recommended.  Winniugstadt  is  fine  for  a 
succession.  Give  young  plants  a  dressing  of  ashes 
and  plaster.  Set  out  cabbage  stumps  for  greens. 

Carrots. — Sow  Early  Horn,  as  directed  for  beets. 

If  some  are  wanted  extra  early,  sow  under  gla,ss. 

Cauliflower. — Sow  Early  Paris  and  Early  Erfurt  in 
hot-bed  to  furnish  plants  for  the  first  or  early  crop. 

Celery. — Plants  for  the  first  crop  should  be  start¬ 
ed  in  a  gentle  heat  or  under  a  cold  frame,  in  light 
rich  soil.  Early  White  Solid  is  the  best  carly^ 

Cold  Frames. — Give  air  on  warm  days  and  cover 
securely  on  cold  nights.  See  article  on  page  83. 

Compost. — The  heap  of  refuse  accumulated  last 
season  will  need  turning  over  and  to  be  made  uni¬ 
form.  Pick  out  sticks  and  other  rubbish,  and  if  not 
■well  decomposed,  mix  with  manure  to  ferment. 

Cress. — Sow  and  cover  lightly. 

Cucumbers. — Sow  under  glass.  If  intended  for 
transplanting,  sow  on  the  under  side  of  pieces  of  sod 
about  3  inches  square,  and  set  in  hot  bed  or  room. 

Brains. — Mostgardens  will  be  all  the  sooner  ready 
totv’orkif  drained.  Drain  the  ■wettest  places  first. 

Egg  Plant. — This  needs  more  heat  than  cabbages 
and  lettuce,  and  should  go  in  a  hot-bed  with  pep¬ 
pers.  The  Long  Purple  is  earliest.  The  N.  Y.  Pur¬ 
ple  largest  and  best  for  main  crop. 

Fences. — Put  in  condition  to  keep  out  all  animals, 
and  hang  gates  so  that  they  cannot  be  left  open. 

Eorscradish. — Make  beds  in  rich  soil  and  lakant 
pieces  of  root  an  inch  long  in  holes  made  a  foot 
deep  with  a  dibble. 

Hot-beds. — Brief  directions  for  making  these  are 
given  in  last  month’s  calendar,  and  an  account  of 
cheap  turf  frames  will  be  found  on  page  83.  In  the 
management,  avoid  sudden  alternations  of  tempera¬ 
ture.  Remove  the  m.ats  or  other  covering  some¬ 
time  before  giving  air,  in  order  not  to  cool  the 
plants  too  suddenly.  Where  many  sorts  are  sown 
in  a  bed,  the  seed  must  be  in  rows,  but  when  a 
whole  bed  or  a  division  is  given  to  one  kind  it  may 
be  sown  broadcast,  and  thinned  out  afterwards. 

Leeks. — Sow  in  rich  soil,  in  rows  a  foot  apart. 

Lettuce. — Sow  under  ghass.  The  Silesian  is  best  to 
sow  thickly  and  pull  when  young.  Butter  lettuce, 
and  other  sorts  are  best  to  transplant  for  heading. 
It  needs  plenty  of  light  if  grown  with  bottom  heat. 

Manure. — Secure  a  good  stock  for  the  garden, 
and  for  later  hot-beds.  Spent  hops  from  the  brew¬ 
ers  are  very  valuable,  either  when  allowed  to  ferment 
alone  or  made  into  compost  with  stable  manure. 
Cart  out  manure  while  the  ground  is  frozen.  Save 
hen  and  pigeon  clroppings  as  something  precious. 

Melons. — Treat  like  cucumbers. 

Onions. — The  potato  variety  is  useful  in  the  gar-  ^ 
den.  The  sets  may  be  put  out  4  inches  apart,  in  15 
inch  rows,  as  soon  the  frost  is  out.  Cover  with  litter. 

Parsley. — Plant  seed  in  a  cold  frame. 

Parsnips. — Dig  wherever  the  ground  is  opicn.  Save 
the  finest  for  seed. 

Peas. — The  early  sorts  may  go  in  soon.  A  row  or 
two  which  can  be  covered  with  a  board  or  other 
cover  at  night  may  be  coaxed  for  extra  early. 

Potatoes. — Get  in  some  early  sort  as  soon  as  the 
ground  serves,  but  pl.ant  deep.  Have  some  litter 
to  cover  over  the  rows  if  it  comes  on  cold  weather. 

Eadishes. — Sow  in  hot-bed,  and  in  a  warm  light 
spot  in  open  ground.  Early  Turnip  is  one  of  the  best. 

Bhnbarb.—'E ovli  in  the  manure  on  the  beds.  Set 
crowns  with  a  yfiece  of  root  in  well  manured  soU. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


G7 


.N'./a.— Si-r  our  lulvurtisumeuts  and  order  an  early 

fc-Uj'j'iy  «»(' llinsc  McuUctt. 

Sjundch. —  L'lK'DVur  llial  started  last  fall  and  stir 
Ibe  .-iiil.  Sow  seed  iii  rieli  ground. 

Tonuilucis. — Sow  ill  liot-l)ed  and  transplant  to  a 
gentle  Liot-bed  wlien  two  inelies  high.  The  plants 
will  be  all  the  better  and  stochier  if  transplanted 
two  or  three  times  tiefore  tlie  final  planting  out. 

Turnips. — Sow  siiring  sorts  early  in  a  warm  spot. 

Winter  Cherry  .—Tvci\.t  in  the  same  way  as  tonnatoes. 

Fj’seil  CSsas-«84!si. — The  advantages  of  hav¬ 
ing  the  fruit  garden  separate  from  the  kitchen  gar¬ 
den  have  been  often  insisted  upon.  Wherever  there 
is  suiUcicut  space,  the  trees  and  shrubs  should  have 
a  place  to  themselves,  and  not  be  subject  to  have 
their  roots  dist  urbed  by  the  frciiuent  si'ading  nec¬ 
essary  to  prepare  the  ground  for  vegetables.  Under 
this  head  we  notice  slirubs  and  dwarf  trees  ;  standard 
trees  are  included  in  the  directions  for  the  orchard. 

Planting  may  be  commenced  as  soon  as  the  frost 
is  well  out.  Thesoil  of  the  fruit  irarden  should  be 
drained,  enriched  and  deeply  plowed  or  spaded. 

Blackberries. — Set  the  improved  kinds  0  fcetajiart 
each  way,  cutting  back  the  canes  to  0  inches. 

Currants. — Prune,  and  make  cuttings  of  last 
year’s  wood.  Transplant  already  rooted  plants. 

Bioarf  Trees.— The  remarks  lu^on  cutting  back  at 
the  time  of  planting,  ajiply  with  even  more  force  to 
dwarfs.  Now  is  a  good  time  to  commence  to  form 
dwarf  pyramids  .as  described  in  January,  jiage  17. 

Guosebe-n-ies. — Treat  as  currants.  The  Houghton 
and  American  seedling  are  the  only  reliable  sorts. 

Grapes. — If  the  vines  were  left  unpruned  last 
autumn,  attend  to  them  eaidy.  Those  which  at  the 
fall  pruning  had  extra  buds  left  on  the  canes  may 
be  now  cut  back  to  the  bud  intended  to  grow. 
Plant  new  vines.  There  is  sc.arcely  a  y.ard  or  gar¬ 
den  that  has  uot  room  for  from  one  to  a  dozen 
vines  which  will  fill  up  spaces  now  unoccupied. 
Recollect  that  a  vine  may  be  grown  to  a  single 
stake,  or  may  be  made  to  spread  over  a  large  space. 

liaspberries.— Do  not  uncover  too  soon.  Plant 
new  vines,  especially  the  Black  Caps,  which  are 
prolific  and  hardy,  and  goodforhomeuse  ormarket. 

Strawberries. — Prepare  ground  for  new  beds  in 
time  for  planting.  Use  old  manure  ;  spade  deeply. 


FSower  Cla.rdem  and  Eiawn — Spring 
work  may  commence  this  month,  or  the  severity  of 
the  season  may  put  it  over  to  April.  The  Calendar 
suggests  the  earliest  work,  but  the  time  of  doing  it 
will  depend  upon  the  character  of  the  season.  It 
is  uot  well  to  be  too  much  in  a  hurry.  The  ground 
must  be  dry  and  warm  before  growth  will  com¬ 
mence.  Much  clearing  up  will  be  required  wher¬ 
ever  this  was  neglected  in  autumn,  and  new  borders 
and  walks  may  be  laid  out  and  prepared. 

Annuals. — While  many  consider  that  the  trouble 
of  raising  annuals  is  all  out  of  proportion  to  their 
value,  yet  there  are  some  which  no  one  would  wil¬ 
lingly  do  without.  Asters,  Balsams,  Double  Zinni¬ 
as  and  Petunias  as  well  as  many  others  are  needed 
in  every  garden.  The  list  of  annuals  is  very  large, 
and  the  best  way  is  to  send  to  a  seedsman  fora  cata¬ 
logue  and  make  a  selection.  Start  those  designed 
for  early  blooming  in  the  green-house  or  hot-bed. 

Cannas.—W  space  permits,  have  a  mound-like  bed 
of  these  in  the  lawn.  They  may  be  started  from 
seed,  but  a  quicker  effect  may  be  had  from  roots. 
Start  the  seeds  in  heat  and  do  not  put  out  plants 
until  settled  warm  weather. 

CTimbers.— Introduce  these  wherever  it  can  be 
be  done  with  good  effect.  The  Honeysuckles, 
Climbing  Roses,  Wistaria  and  Trumpet  Creeper,  are 
good  if  flowers  are  wanted.  If  a  dense  green  screen 
is  needed  to  cover  a  trellis,  nothing  does  better 
than  a  vine  of  Concord,  Hartford  Prolific,  or  some 
other  vigorous  growing  grape.  It  must  be  grown 
without  reference  to  fruit,  but  merely  for  wood. 

Clematis. — This  is  a  most  valuable  genus  of  plants; 
some  of  the  newer  ones,  such  as  Helena,  Sophia, 
and  SieboUli  are  beautiful  low  climbers.  They 
arc  propagated  by  dividing  the  root. 

Edyings. — Reset  box  as  soon  as  the  ground  opens. 

Gravel  Wallis.— Go  over  with  a  heavy  rake  and 


add  fresh  gravel,  if  needed,  and  roll.  Make  new 
walks,  putting  down  coarse  stones  before  adding 
the  gravel,  in  order  to  secure  good  drainage. 

Hedges. — Set  deciduous  hedges,  if  they  are  pre¬ 
ferred  to  evergreen,  which  must  be  deferred  until 
in  growth.  Tamarisk,  Barberry,  Privet,  and  many 
other  shrubs  may  be  made  into  a  garden  hedge. 

Herbaceous  Terennials. — Every  good  garden  should 
have  a  stock  of  these.  The  finer  Phloxes,  Diccn- 
tra.  Columbines,  Herbaceous  Spirreas,  and  many 
others,  give  an  abundance  of  flowers  by  simply  di¬ 
viding  anii  resetting  every  two  or  three  years. 

Hot-beds. — Prepare  for  starting  seeds  of  annuals, 
cuttings  of  bedding  plants,  dahlias,  etc. 

Lawns. — Top  dress  with  wood  ashes  or  nice  com¬ 
post  which  is  free  from  weed  seeds. 

Manure. — For  the  main  purposes  of  horticulture, 
this  must  be  well  decomposed.  Save  the  hot-bed 
materials  for  the  flower  garden.  Decomposed  sods 
or  leaf  mould  from  the  woods  are  always  useful. 

Roses. — Cut  back  the  strong  stems  of  Perpetuals, 
China  and  Tea  roses  severely,  and  they  will  bloom 
all  the  better.  Thin  out  small  and  useless  wood. 
Cut  out  old  wood  from  climbers  and  leave  only 
strong  .and  vigorous  shoots. 

Shrubs. — These  are  so  useful  both  in  large  and 
small  grounds  that  we  cannot  too  often  recommend 
planting  them.  The  volume  for  last  year  contains 
notes  on  many  fine  native  and  foreign  species. 
Prune,  if  it  has  been  left  undone  until  now.  It 
will  not  do  to  cut  back  all  shrubs  indiscriminately. 
The  Lilacs,  Weigelas,  and  many  others,  flower  only 
from  the  buds  formed  last  year,  and  if  these  are 
removed  in  pruning,  no  flowers  will  be  had.  Shrubs 
of  this  kind  need  only  a  judicious  trimming.  On  the 
other  hand  the  difl’erent  species  of  Euonymus,  Hi¬ 
biscus,  (Althea)  etc.,  produce  flowers  on  the  growth 
of  the  present  season  and  may  be  cut  back  closely. 

Trees. — Make  preparation  for  planting  ornamen¬ 
tal  trees,  not  only  upon  the  lawn  but  along  the 
roads.  Nursery  trees  are  better  than  those  from 
the  forest,  as  they  have  better  roots ;  still  trees  from 
the  edge  of  the  woods,  or  from  open  grounds,  and 
the  tops  freely  cut  back,  are  much  better  than  none. 


Grecsi  and  Mot-Iffoiises. —  The  in¬ 
creasing  heat  of  the  sun  will,  on  warm  days,  ren¬ 
der  fire  heat  unnecessary,  but  some  fire  must  be 
kept  at  night.  Sudden  changes  must  be  watched 
and  guarded  against  by  judicious  firing.  Air  freely  in 
fine  w  eather.  Prolong  flowering  by  shading  the  gboss. 

Annuals. — Sow  seeds  in  pots. 

Azaleas  are  now  coming  into  full  bloom,  and  will 
need  free  watering  and  syringing  before  the  buds 
open.  Repot  young  plants. 

Bedding  Plants. — The  stock  of  these  must  now 
be  provided  for,  such  as  Verbenas,  Salvias,  Helio¬ 
tropes  and  all  the  things  so  useful  in  filling  the  bor¬ 
ders.  Put  in  cuttings. 

Begonias. — ^Repot  in  soil  largely  of  leaf  mould. 

Camellias. — Place  in  a  warmer  situation  those  be- 
gining  to  push  a  new  growth ;  syringe  frequently. 

Chrysanthemums. — Propagate  by  cuttings  to  get 
a  stock  for  next  autumn’s  blooming. 

Cinerarias. — These  are  very  subject  to  the  attacks 
of  the  green  fly,  and  will  probably  need  fumigating. 
Keep  rather  cool,  with  plenty  of  light. 

Dahlias. — Those  for  early  blooming  maybe  start¬ 
ed  into  growth,  dividing  the  roots  and  potting 
them  as  soon  as  the  sprouts  show  themselves. 

Fuchsias. — These  may  be  started  into  growth, 
giving  a  moist  atmosphere  and  plenty  of  pot-room. 
Bring  into  good  shape  by  pinching  in  young  growth. 

Japan  Lilies. — These  are  often  grown  in  pots,  but 
may  do  better  in  the  border.  Pot  them  at  once. 

Pelargoniums.. — Give  water  freely,  and  place  as 
near  as  possible  to  the  glass.  Tie  out  the  branches 
so  as  to  give  a  fine  shape  for  blooming. 

Repotting. — Those  plants  about  to  make  a  new 
growth  will  need  to  be  shifted.  If  it  is  not  desired 
to  increase  the  size  of  the  pots,  wash  the  soil  from 
the  old  balls,  and  carefully  repot  with  nearly  dry 
earth,  then  water  freely  and  keep  shaded  a  few  days. 


Cold  Ora'pery. — As  a  general  thing  it  is 
not  best  to  uncover  the  vines  until  April.  Keep 


the  house  cool  by  oi)euing  doors  and  vcnlilators, 
unless  the  weatlicr  be  very  severe.  Tliose  u  isli- 
ing  to  erect  a  cheap  house  are  referred  to  j'age  M. 

Ap« ary  ira  Msai-irSa. — Prepared  by  M.  Qitinby. 
— There  arc  several  things  to  be  ascertabieil  as  soon  a'. 
the  weather  is  sufficieiitiy  mild  for  tlie  bees  u>  fly  lieely. 
See  if  there  are  bees  enougii  in  eacdi  hive  to  reenre  it 
against  robbers,  and  whetlier  tiiey  have  stoies  to  cany 
tiiem  througli  till  flowers  yield  enough;  whether  tliey  liave 
a  queen  ;  w  helher  there  is  any  moldy  comb  ;  w  lietlierany 
bees  have  been  frozen,  or  starved,  and  left  in  tlie  combs 
to  decompose.  When  bees  first  fly  out  in  spring,  it  is  not 
unusual  (especially  with  such  as  have  been  in  tlie  liouse, 
and  are  changed  to  some  new  stand,  wlien  taken  out.)  for 
part  of  the  bees  belonging  to  one  liive  to  desert  and  join 
another.  To  ascertain  the  true  condition  of  tilings,  on  a 
clear  morning  turn  the  hive  over,  and  let  the  sun  among 
the  combs,  and  see  how  far  tlie  cluster  exiends.  Do  not 
mistake  a  cluster  of  dead  bees  for  live  ones.  Enougii  to 
fill  a  pint  measure  would  not  defend  the  hive  against  rob¬ 
bers,  or  warrant  any  expectation  of  a  swarm,  unless  sucli 
hive  can  be  isolated,  and  free  from  all,  molestaiion  by 
others.  If  it  has  a  queen,  it  may  serve  to  furnisli  some 
queenless  colony  wiili  a  niotlier;  or  a  hive  with  more  tlian 
its  share  of  bees  may  be  taken,  and  the  bees  equalized 
by  changing  the  hives  each  to  the  otlier's  stand,  if  tlie 
colony  is  nearly  out  of  stores,  and  you  cannot  tell  by 
lifting  it,  it  is  now  a  good  time  while  ihe  hive  is  inverted 
to  look  for  sealed  honey.  If  there  is  any  it  may  be  seen 
near  the  top  and  outside.  As  long  as  any  can  be  seen, 
they  will  not  be  destitute  in  two  weeks  unless  robbed. 
The  lime  which  it  is  thought  the  honey  will  last  slionki 
be  marked  on  a  label,  and  attached  to  the  hive.  When 
necessary  to  feed,  it  is  safest  for  those  not  familiar  witli 
the  process,  to  take  the  hive  to  some  dark  room  till  all 
that  is  given  them  is  stored.  The  least  trouble  is  to  in¬ 
vert  the  hive,  and  lay  a  piece  of  comb  honey  directly  on 
the  combs ;  if  strained  honey  is  to  be  fed,  set  a  saucer 
on  the  combs,  pressing  it  into  the  combs  till  it  rests  firmly, 
then  pour  in  the  honey,  and  cover  with  short  pieces  of 
cut  straw.  Honey  thus  fed  should  be  scalded  and 
skimmed,  with  the  addition  of  a  little  water.  Nearly  all 
stocks  should  commence  rai.'-in  ;  brood  early  in  Maroh. 
To  ascertain  the  presence  of  a  queen,  look  tiist  for 
Immature  bees  on  the  floor  of  the  hive,  then  for  the  eggs. 
If  none  are  found,  then  with  smoke  drive  the  bees  from 
that  part  of  the  comb  where  they  have  clustered,  and  look 
for  sealed  brood.  If  no  indications  are  discovered,  and 
the  colony  is  weak,  provide  a  queen  by  uniting  w  ith  this 
the  bees  of  some  other  colony  that  Inis  one.  If  the 
movable  comb  hive  is  queenless,  it  is  ascertained  at 
once  by  lifting  out  one  or  tw'o  combs.  While  inspecting 
the  hive,  it  would  be  well  to  look  for  moldy  comb.  When 
very  bad,  cut  it  out,  but  a  slight  affection  may  remain. 
Also,-if  any  of  the  bees  have  been  frozen,  or  starved, 
they  should  be  removed  with  a  coarse  wire  bent  into  a 
hook  at  the  end.  It  is  unnecessary  to  look  for  frozen 
bees  w'hen  they  have  been  wintered  in  a  warm  room. 
Such  are  generally  either  all  dead  or  all  alive.  Those 
that  have  been  housed  should  be  set  out  the  first  tcarai 
clear  day,  even  if  there  is  snow.  If  it  has  lain  a  few  days 
it  will  do  no  harm.  Put  out  only  eight  or  ten  at  once, 
and  two  or  three  hours  afterwards  as  many  more.  Look 
at  the  hives  just  at  sundown,  and  the  loss  of  the  queen  is 
often  indicated  by  the  uneasy  movements  of  the  bees.  If 
the  queenless  colony  be  removed,  save  the  hive  and  con¬ 
tents  undisturbed  for  a  swarm.  Should  worms  hatch  out  in 
the  empty  hive  when  the  weather  becomes  warm,  smoke 
with  brimstone  to  destroy  them.  In  sections  where  the 
bees  do  not  find  plenty  of  pollen,  the  flour  substitute 
should  be  provided.  See  directions  in  March,  1864. 
- - - - 

■5J«&reliiil>le  Advertisers  in  our  Col- 

limns. — We  spare  no  reasonable  effort  to  sift  our  ad¬ 
vertising  columns  from  all  unreliable  parties,  and  gener¬ 
ally  succeed.  There  are,  of  course,  difficulties  in  Ihe 
way, but  we  prefer  to  come  pretty  near  the  standard  rather 
than  open  our  columns  to  all  sorts  of  business  which  w  ill 
pay  for  the  space.  Here  is  an  example  of  one  of  the 
difficulties.  A  commission  house  offers  an  advertise 
ment.  We  inquire  about  the  parties,  and  the  appearances 
and  references  are  all  so  favorable,  that  we  would  our 
selves  employ  them.  We  admit  the  advertisement,  and 
all  goes  on  well  for  one,  two,  or  three  years.  Bye-and- 
bye  a  complaint  comes  of  apparent  wrong  dealing.  We 
make  inquiries,  and  all  is  explained  satisfactorily,  appar¬ 
ently  at  least.  Afterwards,  another  complaint  comes, 
then  another,  and  another.  We  call  on  the  parties,  and 
they  tell  a  different  story,  and  claim  all  to  be  fair.  With¬ 
out  devoting  a  week  to  the  subject,  calling  witnesses,  and 
holding  “court,”  we  cannot  decide  whether  the  parties 
complained  of  are  really  dishonest,  or  the  contrary.  The 
shortest  way  Is,  to  do  as  we  have  lately  done  in  two 
cases,  with  a  commission  house  and  a  tree  seller,  viz., 
erolude  them  from  our  columns,  until  proved  worthy 


68 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


I  March, 


- - —  - 

BOOKS  FOE  FAKMEES  and  OTHERS. 


Important  Work  on  Flax  Culture. 


[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of- 
llce  of  tlie  AgricuUurUt  at  tiie  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  maii,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  tlie  price.  These 


prices  are  positiveiy  good  to  Aprii  1st.] 

Ailen’s  (L.  F.)  Itnr.al  Architecture _ * . % 

•Mien's  (iv.  L.)  American  Farm  Book* . 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals . 

American  Bird  Fancier . 

American  Farmer's  Encyclopedia . . 

■American  Rose  Cnitnrist . 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants . 

Art  of  Saw  Filing  . .  .(Holly) . 

Barry's  Fruit  Garden _ **• . . 

Beecher’s  flly  Ward)  Fruit  Flower.s  and  Fiirming . 

Bement’s  Poulterer’s  Companion. . .  .** . 

Bement’s  I!abl)it  Fancier . 

Blake’s  Fanner’s  Encyclopedia . 

Bonssinganlt’s  Rural  Economy . 

Bridgeinan’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . 

Bridgeman’s  Voung  Gardener’s  Assistant . 

Bridgeman’s  Kitc'hen  Garden  Instructor . 

Bridgeman’s  Florist's  Guide . 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  German) _ * _ 

Brock’s  Book  of  Flowers _ * . 

Browne’s  Field  Bonk  of  Manures . 

Browne's  Poultry  Varfl . 

Bui.st’s  Flower  garden  Directory . 

“  Family  Kitchen  Gardener..... . 

Burr’s  A^egctabics  of  America _ *  . 

Carpenters  and  .Joiners’  Hand  Book.  .(Holly) . 

Cliorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide . 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener . 

Cole’s  fS.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book _ ♦ . 

Colman’s  Agriculture . 

Clopeland’s  Country  Life . . 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper  . 

(lotton  Planters  lilanual  (Turner) . 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor . 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor _ * . 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  of  the  Horse _ (colored) . 

Dana’s  Muck  Alanual . 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) . 

Domestic  Poultry . 

Downing  s  Cottage  Residenc,e.s . **  . 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America _ ***.. . . 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry . 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide . 

Employment  of  'Women— By  'Virginia  Penny....* . 

Every  Lady  her  own  Flower  Gardener . . . 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener . 

Flax  Culture . (Heady  next  month) . 

French’s  Farm  Drainage _ * . 

Field’s  (Thomas  W.)  Pear  (Culture . 

Fish  Culture . . 

Flint  (Charles L.)  on  Grasses.  ..** . 

Flint’s  Milch  Cow's  and  Dairy  Farming _ *** . 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturlst . •** . 

F’uller’s  Strawberry  Cnitnrist . *. . . . 

Good.alc’s  Principles  of  Breeding. .  .**.  . . 

Gray’sMauual  ofBotany  and  Lessons  in  one  Atol..***.. 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow . 

Gne'non  on  Milch  Co^ys . 

lluH's  (Miss)  American  Cookery . 

Harasathy  Grape  Culture,  &c . 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  'Vegetation,  plain . ** _ 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.** 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers _ *** . 

Hints  to  Rillemcn,  b.v  Cleveland . 

Hop  Culture . (Ready  last  of  March) . 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One . 

.Jaques’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees . 

.Jennings  on  Cattle.  Sheep.  &c . 

.Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry . 

.lohnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultur.al  Chembtry . 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening . 

Lant'stroth  on  the  Honey  Bee  ..** . . 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies'  Flower  Garden _ *.... 

Lenchar's  Howto  Build  Hot-houses . 

T.iebig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Cliemistry . 

Liel»ie:’s  Modern  Agriculture . 

I.lnsley’s  (D.  C.)  'Morgan  Horses  . 

Manual  ol  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint. 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Doctor  ..#** . 

M.ayhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management . *** _ 

McMahon’s  American  Gardener . * . 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot . 

Morrell’s  American  Sliepherd . 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood.  ...**.... . . 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record _ ** . 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener _ (Pardee) . 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture . 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  ann  Imphee . 

Onion  Culture  ...*•* . 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  GOc _ * . (p.aper) 

Our  Hardy  Grapes . 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture . 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves . . 

Dodder’s  Land  Measurer . 

(Juinby’s  Mv^teries  of  Bee  keeping _ *• . 

Rabbit  Fan  ■-lor . 

Randall’s  Sneen  Husbandry . 

Randall’?  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husb.andry . 

Rand’s  Fiov  ers  for  Parlor  and  Garden _ *• . 

Rich’n  American  Architect . 

Richardson  on  Dog . 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses . 

Rural  Affairs _ (bound) _ 3  Vols _ ejteh . 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of 3  Vols.  .morocco . 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols.. cloth . 

Schcnck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book . 

Shef  herd’s  own  Book . 

Skil-ful  Housewife  . 

Smith’s  Landscape  G.ardening . 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Children** . 

Stewart’s  (.John)  Stable  Book . . 

Ten  Acres  Enough . 

Thacr’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture . 

Thomas  Fruit  Culturist . 

Thon-.pson’s  Food  of  Animals . 

Tobacco  Culture  . .  .*•* . 

Todd’s  (S.  K.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual _ ** . 

Taker’s  Register  Rural  Affairs _ *  . 

■Vanx’s  Villas  and  Cottages . 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture .  . 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens . 

Wnring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . 

Watson’s  American  Home  Garden _ *** . 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) . 

■Wlieat  Plant  (.John  Klinpart’s) . 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes . 

Vale  College  Agricultural  Lectures . 

Vouatt  and  .Spooner  on  the  Horse . 

Youatt  and  Aiartin  on  Cattle . 

Youatt  on  the  Hog _ * . 

Youatt  on  Sheep . . . 

■Youmans’ Household  Science — ••*  . 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry....* . 


1  1  50 
1  50 
1  00 
30 
6  00 
30 
1  75 
60 
1  75 

1  25 

2  00 
30 

1  50 

1  50 
75 

2  00 


50 
1  50 
1  50 
1  25 
1  50 
1  00 

4  50 
60 
75 

,  75 
60 

5  00 

4  50 
75 

1  50 
1  50 
1  50 

5  00 

1  25 
SO 
30 

2  50 

3  00 
75 

1  50 
1  50 
30 
1  50 

1  50 
1  25 

1  25 

2  00 
2  00 
1  50 

20 
1  00 

4  00 
1  25 

75 
I  25 

5  00 

3  50 

4  50 
1  75 
1  50 

40 
1  73 
60 
1  50 
1  73 

1  23 

2  00 
2  00 
2  00 
1  50 

50 
1  23 

1  50 
1  00 
3  60 

8  50 

2  50 
75 

1  25 

2  00 
1  50 
1  50 

75 
1  25 
20 
30 
25 
73 
1  25 
1  50 
60 
1  75 
30 
1  50 
1  00 

3  DO 

6  00 
30 
50 

1  50 

9  ,50 
8  50 

60 

2  25 
73 

1  50 
1  50 
1  50 

1  50 

2  50 
1  50 
1  00 

25 
1  50 
30 

3  00 
1  50 

1  50 
1  00 

2  00 
1  50 
1  50 
1  50 

60 
1  50 
1  50 
1  00 
1  00 
1  75 
1  ’» 


Tlie  attention  directed  to  these  subjects  by  our  recent 
offer  of  pi'izes  has  called  out  a  great  amount  of  informa¬ 
tion,  in  just  that  form  most  suited  to  the  public  wants,  for 
while  many  are  anxious  to  learn  more  respecting  the  grow¬ 
ing  of  these  important  products,  many  others  desire  to 
know  whether  they  can  profitably  commence  the  culture. 

We  have  the  plain,  full  directions,  given  by  a  large 
number  of  practical  growers  ,  of  long  experience  re¬ 
siding  in  different  parts  of  the  country.  Any  item  omitted 
by  one  is  sure  to  be  brought  out  by  others.  We  give  one 
of  the  Hop-growing  essays  this  month.  Next,  month  we 
shall  give  the  best  one  of  between  thirty  and  forty  good 
Flax  essays.  In  order  to  place  the  mass  of  this  inform 
ation  within  the  reach  of  all,  as  we  cannot  print  a  tenth 
part  of  it  in  the  Agriculturist  we  shall  get  out  as  soon  as 
possible  a  well-printed  but  low-priced  pamphlet  or  book, 
containing  the  essays  on  Hop-culture — costing  about  forty 
cents.  We  hope  to  have  this  ready  as  early  in  klarch 
as  the  15th  or  20th.  A  similar  work  will  be  prepared  from 
the  great  mass  of  information  in  all  departments  of  Flax- 
culture,  and  dressing  it  for  market.  This  will  be  in  simi¬ 
lar  form.  We  shall  try  and  keep  the  price  as  low  as  50 
cents.  This  will  be  ready  in  April  if  not  before. 

U.  ^TirCOAIi. 

By  authority  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  the  un¬ 
dersigned  has  assumed  the  General  Subscription  Agency 
for  the  Sale  of  United  States  Treasury  Notes,  bearing 
seven  and  three-tenths  per  cent,  interest,  per  annum, 
known  as  the 


These  notes  arc  issued  under  date  of  August  15th,  1864, 
and  are  payable  three  years  from  that  time,  in  currency, 
or  are  convertible  at  the  option  of  the  holder  into 


U.  S.  5-20  Six  per  cent. 
GOLD-BEARING  BONDS. 


These  bonds  are  now  worth  a  premium  of  nine  per 
cent.,  including  gold  interest  from  Nov.,  which  makes 
the  actual  profit  on  the  7-30  loan,  at  current  rates,  in¬ 
cluding  interest,  about  ten  per  cent.,  per  annum,  besides 
its  exemption  from  State  and  municipal  taxation,  ■which 
adds  from  one  to  three  per  cent,  more,  according  to  the 
rate  levied  on  other  property.  The  interest  is  payable 
semi-annually  by  coupons  attached  to  each  note,  which 
may  he  cut  off  and  sold  to  any  bank  or  banker. 

The  interest  amounts  to 


One  cent  per  day  on  a  $50  note. 
1’wo  cents  ‘  “  “  8fiOO  “ 

Ten  ‘  *•  “  “  $500  “ 

20  “  “  “  “  $1000 

$1  “  “  “  $5000 


Notes  of  all  the  denominations  named  will  be  prompt¬ 
ly  furnished  upon  receipt  ol  subscriptions.  This  is 


THE  ONLY  LOAN  IN  MARKET 


now  offered  by  the  Government,  and  it  is  confidently  ex¬ 
pected  tliat  its  superior  advantages  will  make  it  the 

GREAT  POPULAR  LOAN  OF  THE  PEOPLE. 

Less  than  $200,000,000  remain  unsold,  which  will  pro¬ 
bably  be  disposed  of  within  the  next  60  or  90  days,  when 
the  notes  will  undoubtedly  command  a  premium,  as  has 
uniformly  been  the  case  on  closing  the  subscriptions  to 
other  Loans. 

In  order  that  citizens  of  every  town  and  section  of  the 
country  may  be  afforded  facilities  for  taking  the  loan, 
the  National  Banks,  State  Banks,  and  Private  Bankers 
throughout  the  country  have  generally  agreed  to  receive 
subscriptions  at  par.  Subscribers  will  select  their  own 
agents,  in  whom  they  have  confidence,  and  who  only  are 
to  be  responsible  for  the  delivery  of  the  notes  for  wliich 
they  receive  orders.  . 

JAY  COOKE, 

Subscription  agent  Philadelphia, 


JSANItEreS, 

AND  DEALERS  IN 

C50YEKNMEKT  SECURITIES.  • 

38  WALL  STREET,  NEW  YOEK,  f 

ARE 

U.  S.  ACSEr«TS, 

FOR  THE  SALE  OF  THE 

PoptllliF  t'-S® 

Under  the  recent  arrangement  of  the  Treasury  Depart 
ment  with  Mr.  JAY  COOKE,  General 
Subscription  Agent. 

Checks  and  Drafts  on  New  York,  Legal  Tender 
Notes  and  National  Bank  Notes  may  be  remitted  in 
payment.  We  also  receive  all  Legal  Tender  Vive  Per 
Cent.  Notes,  and  allow  the  accrued  interest  to  date  of 
subscription. 

The  7-30  Notes  will  be  forwarded  by  Express,  free  of 
charge,  to  all  points  reached  by  the  Express  Companies. 

Orders  may  be  forwarded  to  us  direct,  or  through  your 
nearest  Bank  or  Banker. 

Persons  visiting  the  city  will  find  a  full  assortment  of 
the  Notes  on  hand  at  our  Office  for  immediate  delivery. 

Orders  by  mail  should  be  accompanied  with  the  address 
in  full  to  which  the  Notes  are  to  be  forwarded. 

We  also  keep  on  hand,  and  buy  and  sell  at  market 
rates,  all  kinds  of 

UNITE®  STATES  SEtJUKlTIES. 

Accounts  of  Banks,  Bankers,  and  individuals  received 
on  favorable  terms. 

FISM  &  MATCH, 

^  ISAWKEKS, 

S8  Wall  Street,  Wc’»r  Yorlc. 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


New-York,  Feb.  18. 

We  give  below  condensed  and  convenient  tables  refer¬ 
ring  to  the  transactions  in  the  New  York  Produce  mar¬ 
kets  during  the  month  ending  February  19,  to  which  date 
they  are  made  up.  These  tables  have  been  carefully  pre¬ 
pared  specially  for  the  American  Agriculturist,  from  offi¬ 
cial  and  other  reliable  sources,  including  the  notes  of  our 
own  reporter. 

1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  THB  NKW-TORK  MARKETS, 

Receipts.  Flour.  Wieat.  Corn.  Eye.  Earley.  Oats. 
2tfiaysH«’sm’tli.l07.000  2,100  135,000  6,250  27,000  2.55,000 
23days(astm’tli.231,000  11,000  137,000  10,500  21.000  178,000 

Sales.  Flour,  'niieat.  Corn.  Eye.  Barley. 

24  days  H«'s  month,  221,000  434,000  106,000  31,000  37,000 

28  days  mouth,  267,000  461,000  334,000  33,500  141,000 

3.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
RECEIPTS.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Eye.  Barley.  Oats. 
24  days  1863 . 107,000  2,100  18.5.000  6.‘250  27.000  255,000 

23  days  1864 . 308,000  26,500  191,000  6, .500  68,000  282,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Eye.  Barley 

24  days  1865  .  221,000  434,000  196.000  31,000  37,000 

28  days  1864 .  415,500  3,891,000  1,83'J,000  13,400  98,500 


3.  Exports  from  Neio-York,  January  ]  to  February  18. 


iFlour, 

tviieat, 

Corn, 

liye, 

Oats. 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

1865.... 

...  198,225 

69,444 

6.3.404 

141 

9,293 

1804.... 

...  261,249 

2,115,441 

18,318 

255 

3,142 

The  tables  above  show  the  amount  of  transactions,  and 
the  price  table  below  gives  present  prices  and  changes 
from  last  month.  The  prices  are  mainly  rcgnlaled  by 
the  value  of  gold  ;  breadstuffs,  meats,  etc..,  are  relatively 
higher  than  they  would  be  but  for  the  very  limitoi  sup 
ply  in  the  city,  the  severe  winter  liaving  greally  im¬ 
peded  the  bringing  lorward  of  freiglil. 


CUKP.KNT  IVHOLESALE  PRICKS. 

■Jan.  20.  Feb.  18. 


Flour— Super  to  Extra  State 

$9 

50 

(SllO 

40  .?10 

(0 

@10 

80 

Super,  to  Extra  Soutliern  — 

10 

50 

(rSlS 

00 

n 

10 

@14 

•50 

Extra  AVestern . 

10 

10 

W13 

00 

10 

05 

012 

50 

Extra  Genesee . 

10 

50 

(<«13 

00 

10 

a5 

012 

50 

Superfine  AVestern . 

9 

50 

H  9 

85 

10 

10 

010 

45 

Ryk  Flour . 

8 

25 

(0)  9 

25 

7 

7'5 

0  8 

I.T 

Corn  Meal . 

7 

75 

(<«  9 

00 

7 

75 

0  8 

65 

AVnEAT— All  kinds  of  Ayiilte, . 

2 

50 

®  2 

^0 

2 

45 

0  2 

65 

All  kinds  of  Red. . 

2 

20 

fi)  2 

52K 

2 

10 

0  2 

45 

Corn— Yellow . 

1 

80 

H  1 

82 

1 

72 

0  1 

76 

Mixed . 

1 

88 

(<4  1 

90 

1 

88 

0 

Oats— AVestern . 

1 

06 

W  1 

07 

1 

10 

0  1 

io« 

State . 

1 

06 

(<4  1 

00 

1 

OH 

@  1 

09 

Ryk . . . 

1 

68 

0  1 

70 

1 

60 

0  1 

6,3 

B.vrley . . . 

1 

85 

(<4  2 

05 

1 

K) 

0  2 

0,5 

Cotton— Middlings,  per  lb.... 

98 

0  1 

00 

85 

0 

H7 

Hops,  crop  of  1864,  per  lb . 

23 

52K 

25 

SO 

1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


Featiihrs.  Live  Geese,  p.  lb..  @  801  75  ®  76 

Skkd— Clover,  per  lb .  2.5  ®  26  25  @  26 

Tlmotby.  per  busliel .  5  75  @  7  OO  6  00  ®  6  75 

Flax,  per  bushel .  3  60  @  3  85  3  50  @  3  05 

Sugar— ISrown.  per  11) .  17  @  23  16  @  22 

MoLASSES.New-Orleiuis,  p.sb.  1.30  @  1  50  1  35  @150 

CoFKEK.  Kio.  per  lb .  42  @  46  30  ®  44 

'I'OISAOOO— lventuolcy,&c,p.lb..  12^®  40  10  @  45 

Seed  Leaf,  per  Ib .  16  @  63  0  ®  50 

Wool— Domestic  Ileece,  p.  lb..  90  @  1  12K  87X@  1  16 

Domestic,  pulled,  per  lb .  72K®  1  02X  65  @  1  04 

California,  unwashed .  25  "®  65  22K@  63 

I’ALLOW,  peril) .  16>4@  ITX  153f@  16)i 

On,  Cake,  per  tun .  75  00  @80  00  70  00  @  78  00 

Pork— .Mess,  per  bbl .  40  50  @41  50  34  00  @36  75 

Prime,  per  bbl .  33.50  @  34  00  29  00  @30  00 

llEEF- Plain  mess .  20  00  @22  00  18  00  @22  00 

Lard,  in  bbls.,  per  lb  ... _  20  @  24  19><@  24 

Butter— Western,  per  lb .  35  @  4.8  32>t@  47K 

State,  per  lb .  43  @  60  42>4@  57>^ 

CiiEKSE .  15  @  24  14  @  24 

Beans-  per  bushel .  2  75  @  2  90  3  00  ®  3  55 

Peas— Canada,  per  Bushel...  Nominal.  2  30  @2  35 

Kggs— Fresh,  per  doren .  37  ®  42  45  ®  47 

Poultry— P'owls,  per  lb .  18  @  21  22  @  25 

I'nrlceys,  per  lb-. .  20  ®  23  24  @  35 

Potatoes— Jlercers.  p.  bbl... .  3  00  @  3  75  3  73  ®  4  20 

Peach  Blow,  per  bbl .  2  75  @  3  00  3  75  @  4  00 

Aprles— per  bbl .  6  50  @  7  00 

•Apples- Itussets,  per  bbl .  3  73  @  4  50  5  30  ®  6  00 

'I'lie  N.  Y.  BLiive  Stoclc  Marltets  have 
been  very  lightly  supplied  for  a  month  past,  owing  to  the 
tdockade  of  the  railroad  by  snow.  Beef  Cattle  this 
week  sold  higher  than  ever  before.  Prices  spasmodic 
fanging  from  14c.®lCc.  per  lb.,  estimated  dressed  weight 
for  very  poor  cattle,  to  25c.i327c.  for  extra  animals.  Other 
/‘ve  stock  have  been  almost  as  high  proportionally.  The 
regular  supply  is  so  disturbed  by  the  weather  that  the 
present  rates  are  no  oriterian  for  a  week  or  two  hence. 
Live  Hogs  are  very  scarce,  the  best  bringing  14c.®  14%c. 
per  lb.,  live  weight.  Milch  Cows  have  ranged  all  the 
way  fi'om  $50®$60  for  ordinary  to  $30®$90  for  very  good 
and  even  $100  and  upward  for  extra. 


Containing-  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


'I'Ske  Stra,wl»crry  will  be  sent 

out  to  subscribers  early  in  April  to  the  warmer  sections 
of  the  country,  and  later  to  the  colder  regions.  Par¬ 
ticulars  given  next  month.  For  all  information  about 
purchase  of  plants,  see  Mr.  Knox’s  Advertisement.  The 
Publisher  has  no  plants  of  any  kind  to  sell. 

Cattle  ISrceders  Associatioss. — The 
Annual  meeting  takes  place  on  Wednesday,  March  1st, 
at  the  City  Hall,  Worcester,  Mass.  Numbers  of  repre¬ 
sentative  breeders  of  each  class  of  well  bred  cattle  are 
expected  to  be  present,  the  discussions  will  be  valuable. 

Ebcatli  of  a  Veteran  Agricultaral  liditox’. 
Hon.  Ezekiel  Holmes,  M.  D.,  Editor  cf  the  Maine  Far¬ 
mer,  died  at  his  home  in  Winthrop,  Me.,  on  the  9lh  ull., 
in  the  64th  year  of  his  age.  His  life  has  been  a  very  useful 
one.  He  has  been  the  Editor  of  the  Maine  Farmer  since 
its  commencement  in  1833,  and  identified  with  Agricul¬ 
tural  progress  in  his  own  Stale,  and  throughout  the  coun¬ 
try.  The  loss  of  his  counsels  and  co-operation  will  be 
very  seriously  felt,  especially  by  the  agriculturists  of 
Maine  and  New-England,  and  his  memory  will  be  hon¬ 
ored  by  all  who  have  ever  known  him. 


New  York  State  Agricultural  Society. 

The  Annual  meeting  of  this  Society  was  held  on  the  8th 
and  9lh  ultimo,  at  Albany.  A  severe  snow  storm  delayed' 
the  trains  in  almost  all  directions,  so  that  the  attendance 
was  small,  and  the  exhibition  of  dairy  products,  etc.,  mea¬ 
gre.  The  cordial  greeting  of  the  veteran  Secretary,  Col. 
Johnson,  and  the  pleasure  of  meeting  with  so  many  of 
the  tried  friends  and  officers  of  the  noble  Society,  aside 
from  tlie  interest  attaching  to  the  exercises,  were 
pleasant.  We  ought  to  have  more  farmers’  gatherings. 
Certainly  there  is  no  cla.ss  of  the  community  more  bene- 
fitted  by  a  holiday,  or. who  enjoy  social  intercourse  more 
than  intelligent  farmers.  But  we  heartily  wish  this 
Annual  Meeting,  calculated  as  it  is  to  be  very  interesting 
and  instructive,  could  be  held  at  a  season  of  the  year 
when  farmers  might  risk  a  journey  of  a  hundred  or  two 
miles,  with  bur  ability  to  calculate  within  forty-eight 
hours  when  they  would  get  there,  and  when  home  again, 
and  where  they  couM  get  board  for  less  than  $5  a  day. 

We  had  the  pleasure  of  meeting  several  gentlemen  from 
without  the  State,  distinguished  for  their  writings  or  in¬ 
terest  in  Agriculture.  Among  them  Dr.  J.  A.  Warder, 
of  Cincinnati ;  Col.  Stone,  of  Vermont ;  Col.  Harris,  of 
the  Ohio  Faraner  ;  and  Mr.  Greer  of  Ohio. 

The  officers  elected  for  the  present  year,  are  ;  Pres't. 
Hon.  T.  C.  Peters,  of  Darien,  Genesee  Co.  Vice  Prest's. 
Thos.  H.  Faile,  Jr.,  West  Farms,  Westchester  Co.  Sam’l 
Thorne, W.TShington  Hollow,  Dutchess  Co.,Hon  J.  Staun¬ 
ton  Gould,  Hudson,  Columbia  Co.,  T.  L.  Harrison, 
Morley,  St.  Lawrence  Co.,  John  Butterfield,  Utica,  Onei¬ 
da  Co.,  Wm.  Ely,  Binghamton,  Broome  Co.,  D.  D.  T. 
Moore,  Rochester,  Monroe  Co.,  Homer  S.  Huntley,  Ca- 
taragus  Co.  Cor.  Secretary,  Col.  B.  P.  Johnson,  Albany. 
Rec.  Secretary,  E.  Corning,  Jr.  Treasurer,  Luther  H. 
Tucker ;  Executive  Committee,  Elon  Comstock,  N.  Y., 
Geo.  H.  Brown,  Dutchess  Co.,  Clark  /.  Hayes,  Otsego 
Co..H.  J.  E.  Foster,  Senaca  Co.,  L.  Blakesley,  Oneida  Co. 

Utica  is  proposed  as  the  place  of  holding  the  next  fair, 
but  the  decision  is  with  the  executive  committee.  Dr. 
Fitch  continued  his  reports  on  noxious  insects,  treating 
of  the  hop-louse,  currant  worms,  enemies  of  the  potato, 
and  the  “  bee-killer”  fly.  Dr.  Warder  and  Mr.  Gould  ex¬ 
plained  the  efforts  making  to  prepare  flax  so  that  it  can 
be  worked  on  cotton  machinery.  After  the  evening  meet¬ 
ing  of  the  first  day,  the  members  of  the  Society  attended 
the  reception  of  Gov.  Fenton  by  special  invitation.  On 
the  second  day  a  discussion  was  had  in  the  hall  of  the 
Societv,  in  regard  to  the  best  way  to  establish  a  good  dai¬ 
ry  herd,  at  whichw'as  elicited  interesting  information,  and 
after  which  the  following  resolution  was  passed,  viz.: — 
“That  it  is  both  excellent  and  profitable  for  the  dairymen 
of  the  State  of  New  York  to  pursue  the  policy  as  far  as 
practicable,  of  obtaining  their  cows  by  rearing  their  own 
stock  for  dairy  purposes  :  and  that  heifers  should  be  al¬ 
lowed  to  have  calves  at  two  years  old.”  In  the  evening 
the  retiring  president  gave  the  annual  address. 
- - - - - 

Notice— Increasing  Clubs. 

Any  number  of  subscribers  can  be  added  to  a  Club  al- 

lady  sent  in,  at  the  same  rates  as  the  original  Club,  if 
v.ie  added  subscriptions  begin  at  the  same  time.  Thus, 
U  a  Club  of  four  names  at  $5,  other  names  can  be  added 
at  tl  25  each  ;  and  so  of  other  rates.  Can  not  each  of 
unr  present  Club  subscribers  add  another  name  or  two  ? 
We  have  ste>eotvne  Plate?  to  piint  all  back  Nos.  desired 


Tlais  I^saiBi^Fcr  oTExlra,  Size. — In  order 
to  make  room  for  the  lengthy  and  valuable  article  on 
Hop  Culture,  without  curtailing  other  matter,  we  add  four 
extra  pages  this  month  at  large  expense.  Probably  this 
maybe  done  in  other  numbers,  especially  next  month, 
when  we  shall  give  a  prize  chapter  on  Flax  Culture. 

dsamcleB’cd.  Horses  frojas  tlae  Arssay. 

This  terrible  disease  is  fearfully  prevalent  in  some  of 
the  Government  Horse  Hospitais.  We  have  feared  that 
it  would  spread  from  them,  and  now  publish  a  commu¬ 
nication  from  J.  C.  Meyer,  V.  S.,  Cincinnati,  O.,  which 
asserts  that  it  has  spread  most  alarmingly.  He  writes  us  : 
“I  would  direct  your  attention  to  a  great  evil,  which  by 
your  extended  influence,  you  may  be  able  to  check  some¬ 
what.  Since  the  Government  has  been  selling  its  unser¬ 
viceable  army  horses,  the  glanders  have  made  their  ap¬ 
pearance  in  my  practice,  and  are  extending  to  such  a  de¬ 
gree,  that  I  fear,  if  the  sale  of  such  sick  horses  is  not 
stopped,  not  only  an  immense  loss  will  be  sustained  by 
the  State,  but  also,  that  in  a  short  time  we  may  be  unable 
to  obtain  the  necessary  horses  for  war  purposes.  Some 
regulation  prohibiting  the  sale  of  such  horses,  which 
would  be  respected  by  the  Government  agents,  as  well 
as  by  private  individuals,  is  most  desirable,  as  the  lives 
of  men  as  well  as  horses  are  jeoparded  Ihei  eby.” 

l®etrolcHm  Advei-tiseaaicMts — WSsy 
not  Admitted. — The  newspapers  are  getting  rich  on 
the  broadside  advertisements  of  Petroleum  Companies  ; 
some  of  the  Daily  papers  of  this  City  receive  $1000  to 
$2000  a  day  from  this  source.  We  have  a  full  share  of 
these  offered  at  tempting  prices,  which  we  would  gladly 
accept,  not  only  for  the  profit,  but  because  tlie  discovery 
of  Petroleum  is  a  good  thing — we  may  say  a  providen¬ 
tial  interference  in  behalf  of  the  country,  as  the  heavy 
exports  of  this  article  are  materially  aiding  our  National 
finances  at  this  eventful  period.  But  we  are  not  able  to 
distinguish  the  good  Companies  from  the  bad,  without 
more  personal  investigation  than  we  can  possibly  find 
time  for  at  present.  The  best  Companies  are  usually 
those  which  make  the  least  show  in  the  newspapers ; 
the  operators  who  know  they  have  a  good  foundation 
generally  try  to  keep  the  stock  in  the  hands  of  them¬ 
selves  and  friends.  So,  to  avoid  the  danger  of  leading 
our  readers  into  unprofitable  or  fraudulent  enterprises, 
we  feel  compelled  to  decline  all  these  advertisements. 

An  Interesting  and  YaltsaMe  de¬ 
partment  of  this  paper  the  pre.?ent  month,  is  the  adver¬ 
tising  columns,  which  are  filled  with  the  business  an¬ 
nouncements  of  reliable  dealers.  No  advertiser  is  ad¬ 
mitted  whom  we  would  not  send  an  order  to,  if  wanting 
what  he  advertises,  and  at  the  prices  asked.  Large 
numbers  have  been  excluded,  and  we  are  sorry  to  say 
that  many  columns  from  good  men  were  necessarily  left 
out  because  they  came  after  all  the  space  we  could  pos¬ 
sibly  spare  was  filled  up.  See  what  a  store  of  good 
things  are  offered  to  select  from.  Seeds  and  small  plants 
go  so  cheaply  by  mail  (only  16  cents  per  lb.  to  any  place 
in  the  United  States),  that  one  taking  the  Agriculturist 
in  hand  and  looking  through  the  advertising  pages  will 
find  himself  almost  as  well  accommodated  as  if  most  of 
the  leading  establishments  in  the  country  were  brought 


G<> 


together  at  his  door.  It  is  well  to  look  all  Ihrougli  me 
business  pages  ;  they  ;ire  made  up  at  the  convenieni'c  .d 
the  printer,  so  that  one  place  is  as  valuable  as  :inoUier.— 
When  sending  orders,  or  for  circulars,  cata|og\ic:.  eii-. 
please  remember  the  previous  request  to  state  wheie  the 
advertisement  was  seen.  Several  business  men  have 
expressed  great  pleasure  at  hearing  from  the  A  grim  liar 
ist  subscribers  in  every  part  of  the  country — froj]i  av\:iy 
down  in  Maine  and  Nova  Scotia,  to  the  most  di-i.aiii 
hamlet  in  the  far  West.  Said  one  of  llieso  to  us.  ■■  Umll 
I  heard  from  my  advertisement  in  your  journal.  I  had  nr, 
adequate  conception  of  the  vast  number  (,f  people  ioter- 
ested  in  growing  fruits,  and  planting  see  ls  I  uoer 
before  so  fully  appreciated  the  greatness,  Ihe  boiinilles.* 
extent  of  our  country,  and  the  unity  of  interesis  and  i»ir- 

poses  pervading  the  whole _ I  have  heard  from  thou 

sands  of  individuals  on  a  single  subject,  and  they  all 
unite  and  seem  to  think  alike.  How  in  the  world  the 
Agriculturist  found  its  way  into  so  many  thousanils  of 
the  most  distant  towns,  is  more  than  I  can  imagine  .  ” 
Why,  we  advertised  it  every  where,  just  as  we  should 
advise  any  man  to  do  who  had  an  unlimited  supply  of  a 
good  thing — let  all  the  people  know  it.  It  your  neighbor 
close  at  hand  wants  it,  so  does  your  neighbor  in  Iowa, 
and  Nebraska,  and  way  beyond. 

Msiplc  SlBijs'SkB”. — Mr.  Joel  Page,  West  min 
ster,  Windham  Co.,  Vt.,  sends  us  a  few  more  hints  on 
sugar-making.  He  constructs  his  molds  for  caking  Ihe 
sugar  as  follows  ;  He  takes  a  plate  of  .'heet-iron  or  zinc 
18)^  by  23  inches,  nails  cleats  about  I  inch  wide  and 
inch  thick,  thickest  at  the  bottom,  around  the  edges,  and 
four  lengthwise,  equally  distant,  across  the  plate.  The 
long  divisions  thus  made  he  subdivides  by  zinc  slips 
I  inch  wide  and  3}^  inches  long  into  small  spaces  of  con 
venient  size  for  cakes.  Mr.  P.  has  11  molds  one  way, 
and  5  the  other  on  one  plate.  In  sugaring  off  he  boils, 
stirring  carefully  till  a  drop  on  a  bright  ax-blade,  when 
cold,  will  slide  off  w  ithout  leaving  a  trace  ;  then  sets  the 
vessel  off  the  fire  and  stirs  till  the  sugar  begins  to  granu¬ 
late  finely,  when  it  is  poured  into  the  mold,  which  is  pre¬ 
viously  wetted,  and  set  aside  to  cool.  When  the  molds 
are  inverted  on  a  clean  table  the  cakes  drop  out  easily. 

'Tlsc  Aa3ses*ic;&3i  BSose 
This  little  hanilbook  contains  the  necessary  directions 
for  planting,  pruning  and  propagaling  the  Rose,  and  will 
be  found  convenient  for  the  amateur.  The  list  .  ( 
varieties  is  a  few  years  behind  the  time,  as  is  the  case  it) 
all  works  enumerating  the  sorts  of  those  flowers  which 
are  yearly  changing  and  improving.  The  cultivators' 
annual  catalogues  give  the  newest  varieties. — A  now 
edition,  in  neat  paper  covers,  just  ready.  Price  30  cents. 


EiSiott's  '^Vesters*  Ffsaat  CJE-owes’s' 
Guide. — This  has  long  been  a  favorite  work  of  refer¬ 
ence,  especially  among  Western  fruit  growers.  Its  de¬ 
scriptions  are  brief,  and  it  has  a  list  of  varieties  which 
have  been  found  unworthy  of  cultivation.  A  new  edi 
tionhas  been  prepared  to  meet  the  demand.  Price  $1  5n, 

Catalos'Bies,  etc.,  E£eceiv4'4l.  —  The 
catalogues  of  nurserymen  and  seedsmen  are,  at  present, 
often  more  than  mere  price  lists.  They  frequently  coulain 
descriptions  of  plants,  with  useful  directions  for  culture, 
and  in  many  cases  are  illustrated  Cviili  engravings.  IJ.  K. 
Bliss,  of  Springfiehl,  hits  issued  his  Spring  C;iti)logue  and 
Amateur’s  Guide  to  the  Flower  and  Kitchen  GTirdcn.  it 
contains  the  newest  seeds  and  is  very  full  of  description 
and  illustration.  One  commendable  feature  is,  tluit  it 
tells  the  extent  of  ground  a  given  amount  of  vegetable 

seeds  will  sow . The  catalogue  of  A.  M.  Purdy,  South 

Bend,  Ind.,  contains  a  good  selection  of  small  fruits. 
..The  catalogues  of  Alfred  Briilgeinau  s  well-known 
establishment,  at  876  Broadway,  contain  all  Ihe  standard 
varieties  of  flower  and  vegetable  seeds,  as  well  as  the 
novelties.  ..J.  W.  Cone,  Vineland,  N.  J.,  sends  price 

list  of  grapes . The  different  catiilogues  of  Ellwanger 

and  Barry,  Rochester,  N.  Y.,  wouhl,  if  bound  together, 
make  a  good  sized  volume.  They  seem  to  contain 
everything  in  the  way  of  trees  and  plants . John  Van¬ 

derbilt,  23  Fulton  street,  N.  Y.,  has  a  full  assortment  ol 
agricultural  implements,  and  choice  flower  and  vegetable 

and  tree  seeds,  as  set  forth  in  his  catalogue . J.  M. 

Jordan,  St.  Louis,  Mo.,  offers  a  good  selection  of  nursery 
seeds,  and  in  his  catalogue  sensibly  commends  the  vari¬ 
ous  agricultural  and  horticullural  papers  to  his  custom¬ 
ers . The  Reading,  Mass.,  Nursery  ot  J.  tV.  Manning. 

has  the  usual  viiriety.  together  with  several  Down-eiusl 

specialties . Henry  A.  Dreer,  Philadelphia,  publishes 

his  Garden  Calendar  for  1865,  being  a  catalogue  of  seeds 

and  plants,  with  notes  on  their  cultui'e . Reid's  Nur, 

series.  David  D.  Buchanan  succeeds  Ihe  l;de  William 
Reid  in  the  proprietorshi))  of  these  celebiate.d  nurseries. 
In  his  catalogue,  he  promi-es  to  maintain  their  reputa¬ 
tion  for  accuracy  and  good  stock . J.  M.  Thorburn  d 

Co.,  have  issued  their  catalogue  of  flower  seeds,  and 
spring  hulb-s.  It  oompri.ses  a  full  assortment. 


70 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST 


[Maech, 


"•  J i vi*  ”■  «>r  CsaSSU;. — 

A:  Ihc  Aiiiiiiul  iiici-tui'j  m  Uie  Uln'ese-nutkeis’  Association 
lo-l.l  ai  ItiK-liesier,  tiiis  rosolulion  was  enter- 

laiiic.i.  ■  Hex'i/rfii.  Tliat  Mative  cows  are  the  best  and 
most  proiit.iblc  !or  dairy  |mrposes.”  The  discussion 
uliich  follouei!  was  upon  Durhaiiis,  Devons,  Ayrshires, 
AMerneys,  and  Iheir  grades,  but  lire  so  called  “  natives  ” 
were  not  discussed  at  all.  It  seems  strange  that  an  asso- 
ciaiioti  of  sensible  farmers  should  attempt  to  discuss  a 
resolution  aiUucatiug  the  merits  of  a  breed,  that  not  one 
among  them  could  describe  the  characteristics  of,  and 
tlie  very  name  of  which  conveys  only  an  idea  of  a  class 
of  animals  of  the  bovine  species  with  no  uniformity  of 
cliaracter,  exceiu  general  inferiority,  combined  occasion¬ 
ally  with  special  excellences,  such  as  milking  qualities. 

— The  famous  thorough- 
■  bred  race-hor.se  “  Glair  Athole.”  was  sold  not  long  since 
in  England  for  7, .100  guineas,  which  is  equal  to  the  above 
named  price  in  Federal  currency  (gold). 

B..s»sstiJss  SIC  omc  EBirll*. — E.  F.  Mc- 
tlrea,  Shelby  Co.,  Ind.,  writes  that  a  ewe,  owned  by  a 
neighbor  of  his,  recently  dropped  three  white  lambs  and 
one  that  wa.s  jet  black,  and  that  they  were  .all  living  at 
the  lime  of  writing.  Four  lambs  at  one  birth  is  not  a  very 
great  novelty  howevci.  We  have  seen  five,  and  know 
■)f  seven  having  been  dropped  at  a  yeaning. 

TSac  B'lixtafl  Aes IsbssbS.w. —  The  little  book 

by  Dr.  Tliomson,  of  Glasgow,  on  the  food  of  animals 
r,id  man,  contains  a  great  deal  of  time  philo.sophy,  w  hich 
is  applicable  to  the  every  day  practice  of  American 
farmers.  The  views  expres.sed  are,  to  a  great  extent, 
based  upon  a  ti  series  of  experimental  re.searches  under¬ 
taken  by  order  of  the  British  Government  a  few  years 
ago.  Pi  ice  $1.(10. 

'S'o  S4e4*p  SSssS,.^  fis-wjsa  ISaB'siess. — Iii 
res|,i/,ise  to  a  query  in  the  February  number  of  the  Agri- 
cnltu'isi  we  can  lay  before  our  readers  the  following 
lecipes  and  statements  :  One  corresirondent  says,  “Take 
•about  a  tablespoonful  of  good  cayenne  pepper,  and 
mix  thoroughly  with  every  quart  of  oil  used.  This  will 
in  eveid  the  rats  and  mice  from  gnaw  ing  the  harness,  and 
also  prevent  horses  andcolts  from  chewing  their  halter.” 
■Another  signing  himself  “  SadleF’  writes  :  “Aloes  incor¬ 
porated  in  oil,  will  prevent  rats  and  mice  from  injuring 

harne.ss  ;  4  oz.  to  one  gallon  of  oil  will  suffice” . John 

Grie.st,  of  Jay  Co.  Ind.,  says;  “  Thirty  years  ago  a  Dutch 
neighbor  of  mine  told  me,  I  could  prevent  rats  eating  my 
harness  if  I  would  put  a  small  quantity  of  pine  tar  in  the 
oil.  but  not  much,  as  it  would  cause  dirt  to  collect.  I 
think  1  have  not  used  as  much  as  a  tablespoonful  to  a 
qintrt  of  oil.  When  1  did  so,  my  harness  was  not  trou¬ 
bled,  and  when  I  neglected  it  for  a  year  or  two  they  w'ere 
badly  eaten.”. ...  L.  S.  Lichtenwallner,  of  Lehigh  Co., 
I'a.,  uses  a  gill  of  t.ir  to  the  quart  of  oil  ;  C.  Schutt  puts 
a  teacupful  to  2  quarts  and  “  C.”  has  a  rat-terrier  dog. 

Cow  — “  J.  B.  C.,”  of 

Dover,  Del.,  says  he  trieil  the  tongue-slitting  operation 
de.scribed  in  the  November  Agriculturist,  and  it  did  not 
work.  He  could  not  have  done  the  work  well.  A  split 
tongue  cannot  suck.  .  It  probably  closed  in  healing. 

SSecB'Si  'S'EirBismK'  IToke, — “Sub¬ 

scriber,”  of  Howell,  Mich.,  writes:  “I  take  a  stick  of 
light  wood,  of  sufficient  size  for  strength,  put  two  holes 
near  each  end,  to  correspond  in  distance  with  the  bow- 
holes  in  the  yoke,  then  stnip  it,  not  too  tight,  to  the  fore¬ 
head  of  each  steer.  This  will  not  only  prevent  turning 
the  yoke,  but  effectually  remedy  the  h.abit  of  one  hook¬ 
ing  the  other  while  in  the  yoke.  AVhen  tying  tails  is 
pnielised,  should  they,  by  any  chance,  be  unyoked  with¬ 
out  untying,  any  one  may  Imagine  the  consequences.” 

itclcs— Atlesbuky— Rocen— Catuoa  Bi.,ack. 
— “G.  H.  I.  W.,”  asks  wiilch  are  the  best,  and  who 
has  them  for  sale  at  the  West  ?  We  favor  the  Rouen,  but 
are  not  so  set  in  our  way  as  not  to  admit  good  arguments 
against  our  pets  and  in  favor  of  others.  It  is  not  “  rule 
or  Rouen"  with  us  exactly.  Sellers  unknown. 

,,  SowiEBSi  Clover  witi#  Oats. — A  ctill  for 
-testimony  in  regard  to  the  practice  of  seeding  clover 
with  oats,  made  last  month,  has  elicited  many  responses. 
It  seems  that  in  m.any  parts  of  the  country,  where  winter 
grain  is  constantly  grown,  the  custom  prev,ails  of  sowing 
clover  upon  the  rye  or  wheat,  and  with  barley,  but  not 
oats.  Throughout  the  wheat  regions  of  the  middle 
States,  where  this  grain  is  sowed  upon  a  clover  ley,  turn¬ 
ed  under  in  the  summer,  the  clover  seeding  is  usually 
done  with  oats.  When  clover  is  sowed  on  winter  grain, 
nard  freezing  once  in  a  while,  after  it  has  sprouted,  kills 
it.  Sowed  with  oats,  the  trouble  is.  that  as  the  crop  is 
very  leafy,  it  is  apt  to  choke  the  clover,  .and  make  H 


grow  spindling  ;  then  the  oats  are  inclined  to  shelleand 
the  stubble  fields  often  grow  a  rank  crop  of  young  oats, 
which  seriously  hinder  the  grass  and  clover  stocking. 

BSiillceley’s  Seediissg'  — Mr.  J. 

W.  B.  Manning,  of  Reading,  Mass.,  states  that  he  culti¬ 
vated  this  variety  for  one  year,  and  that  although  the 
yield  was  good,  the  potatoes  were  of  poor  quality,  and 
not  fit  for  the  table  when  many  better  ones  are  to  be  had. 
Mr.  Win.  F.  Barrett,  Atlantic  Co.,  N.  J.,  writes  that  in 
1862  he  planted  Bulkeley’s  seedling,  obtained  from  Mr. 
Bulkeley,  and  Garnet  Chili  from  Mr.  Goodrich,  side  by 
side,  and  that  no  difference  could  be  seen  in  the  vines, 
or  the  resulting  tubers  of  the  two  varieties.  Mr.  Barrett 
states  that  he  wrote  to  Mr.  Goodrich  upon  the  matter, 
and  the  latter  informed  him  that  he  had  given  Mr.  Bulke¬ 
ley,  some  years  previously,  specimens  of  his  seedlings 
—the  Garnet  Chili  among  them.  We  have  before 
had  it  stated  that  the  Garnet  Chili  and  Bulkeley’s  seed¬ 
ling  were  the  same  potato,  and  it  is  very  possible  that 
Air.  Bulkeley  in  cultivating  a  great  many  varieties  mis¬ 
took  the  Garnet  Chili  for  one  of  his  own  seedlings. 

ff'Iss.lte  S®€i>tat<». — We  have  numerous  inquir¬ 
ies  for  this  variety.  It  is  common  about  Rochester. 
Those  who  have  any  for  sale  should  advertise  them. 

Ait  Es|sei*issiesat  Witti 
Isaac  Hicks,  Long  Island,  w'riles  &s  follows :  “  A  neigh¬ 
bor  last  spring  cut  out  all  the  eyes  but  the  strongest  one, 
and  planted  the  potatoes  in  a  row,  giving  them  the  same 
chance  as  others  planted  in  the  usual  way.  When  dug, 
these  potatoes.  Peach  Blows,  yielded  by  weight  double 
the  quantity  of  the  same  variety  growing  adjoining  ihem. 
They  were  also  of  Larger  size.  His  theory  is  that  one 
good  strong  shoot,  taking  its  support  from  a  large  potato 
when  it  begins  to  grow,  will  produce  much  more  than 
when  the  substance,  or  food,  is  divided  among  several 
shoots,  or  even  one  shoot  with  but  a  small  piece  ofpotato 
to  commence  its  growth  with.  As  this  was  the  fact,  will 
it  not  be  a  good  plan  for  others  to  try  the  experiment?” 


WSseat  witlBwmU  5®lo wins;.— John  Ma- 
lony,  Dubuque  Co.,  Iowa,  asks  how  it  will  do  to  put  in 
wheat  on  corn  stubble,  without  plowing  the  ground  in  the 
spring.  If  the  soil  were  light,  friable,  in  a  good  st.ate  of 
fertility,  and  free  from  weeds,  he  could  raise  a  fair  crop. 
But  it  would  pay  w'ell  to  plow  before  sowing,  whatever 
might  be  the  quality  and  condition  of  the  soil.  If  the  soil 
were  rather  heavy,  it  would  probably  not  produce  half 
an  ordinary  crop  without  plowing.  AVe  have  tried  sow¬ 
ing  barley,  wheat  and  oats  in  the  spring,  on  fall-plowed 
ground,  without  plowing  again,  and  we  were  satisfied 
that  if  it  had  been  plowed  again  in  the  spring  the  crop 
of  grain  would  have  been  considerably  larger. 

l®3aster  aiail  Bosae  — “  W.  B.  M.” 

of  Plymouth  (no  State  given),  asks,  “  will  it  answer  to 
sow  plaster  or  any  other  manure  with  bone  dust  ?”  Yes. 
Sow  plaster  with  anything  you  please,  it  will  do  no  harm, 
and  is  an  advantage  with  ammoniacal  manures.  Bone 
dust  may  be  mixed  with  anything  except  ashes  and  time. 
Plaster  and  bone  are  an  excellent  mixture.  It  is  usually 
best  to  apply  plaster  with  guano.  Sprinkle  it  over 
manure  heaps,  and  about  the  stable,  under  cattle  and 
horses.  It  will  repress  an  odor  of  ammonia  at  once. 

Bwarf  ISrooisa  C®ria. — E.  M.  Graves, 
Erie  Co.,  Ohio,  gives  his  experience  with  Dwarf  Broom 
Corn  as  follows:  “One  of  your  subscribers  writes 
that  he  has  raised  Dwarf  Broom  Corn,  and  the  tall 
variety  for  several  years,  that  he  likes  the  Dwarf  much 
the  best.  His  experience  is  different  from  mine.  I  have 
planted  it  and  the  tall  variety  every  year  for  three  years, 
and  like  the  tall  kind  much  better,  and  shall  not  raise  any 
more  of  theD  warf.  The  brush  is  generally  one-third  of  it 
too  limber  to  make  a  good  broom — .about  like  a  mop.  It 
is  about  two  weeks  laterln  getting  ripe,  and  I  cannot  get 
nearly  so  many  brooms  off  an  acre  as  I  can  of  the  tall 
kind.  For  seed,  the  balance  is  in  favor  of  the  tall. 

Fine  Ind-ian  Com. — Mr.  J.  L.  Husted, 
Fairfield  Co.  Conn.,  has  put  on  exhibition  at  this  office 
some  remarkably  fine  corn.  The  ears  average  about  a 
foot  in  length,  and  are  well  filled  with  white  flinty  kernels 
having  a  slight  dent.  In  1839,  Mr.  H.  purchased  an  ear  of 
the  “  China  Tree  Corn,”  a  variety  which  was  highly 
praised  at  that  time,  but  which  has  nearly  passed  out  of 
cultivation,  and  by  each  year  selecting  the  best  for  seed, 
he  has  established  a  variety  which,  with  ordinary  culti 
vation,  gives  him  75  bushels  of  shelled  corn  to  the  acre. 

Manm-iji"'  Witli  4j}reen  Clover. — 
Friend  Preston  Eyre,  of  Beaver  County,  Pa.,  writes;  “  1 
have  never  failed  to  raise  a  heavy  crop  of  India  corn 
when  I  liave  plenty  of  old  clover  stalks  to  plow  under. 
My  plan  is  to  let  the  clover  get  In  bloom  before  turning 


the  cattle  on  it.  They  will  eat  the  finest,  and  tread  the 
rest  down.  Then  if  there  is  40  bushels  of  lime  applied 
per  acre,  the  fertility  of  the  soil  will  be  kept  up,  and  good 
crops  will  be  produced.  I  think  it  a  wrong  practice  for 
farmers  to  put  on  so  much  slock- as  to  eat  all  grass  off 
close  to  the  ground.”— On  some  soils  it  wiii  not  pay  io 
apply  lime.  The  true  way  to  determine  whel  ler  it  will 
pay,  is  to  experiment  with  it  upon  small  plots  of  ground 
where  different  kinds  of  crops  are  grown. 

B-ieatlacr  Sca'aps  as  a  Mast  tai’C.— Mrs. 
E.  J.  McLaughlin,  Clark  Co.,  Ohio.  Leather  scraps, 
composted  with  fermenting  stable  manure,  will  decom¬ 
pose  and  form  a  valuable  manure  for  grapes,  applied  uimn 
the  surface,  and  worked  in  with  the  hoe  or  cultivator. 

Swwiiag-  €>n,t.s  AOei*  Oa.ts. — Preston 
Eyre,  Beaver  County,  Pa.,  inquires  how  it  willdo  “  to 
sow  oats  after  oats?”  and  if  it  will  pay  belter  than  to 
plant  India  corn  after  oats  ?  Oats  will  do  well  after  oats, 
on  good  soils,  for  several  succe.ssive  seasons.  But  it  is 
bad  management  to  grow  the  same  crop  twice  in  close 
succession,  unless  the  land  is  well  manured.  Incase  a 
farmer  htis  little  or  no  manure,  as  Friend  Eyre  suggests, 
instead  of  sowing  oats  after  oats,  we  would  plant  Indian 
corn,  and  manure  it  in  the  hill  with  good  superphos¬ 
phate,  and  it  would  be  much  better  for  the  soil.  In  some 
localities  in  the  Stale  of  New-A'ork  nothing  but  oats  are 
grown  for  six  or  eight  seasons  in  close  succession,  and 
with  apparent  profit  to  the  proprietors  But  it  would  be 
far  better  both  for  Ihem  and  their  farms  to  raise  other 
crops  in  connection,  establishing  a  systematic  rotation. 

S^Sowasag-  eeb  Saipes-pJBOspJsate. — A 
subscriber  inquires  if  “it  will  pay  to  sow  about  three 
hundred  pounds  of  superpho.'phate  per  acre,  broadcast  on 
sod  ground  previous  to  plow  ing  it  for  a  crop  of  Indian 
corn?”  We  would  not,  as  a  general  thing,  apply  super¬ 
phosphate  thus  to  corn,  but  would  rather  put  it  in  the  hill. 
Then  it  will  be  sure  to  benefit  the  young  corn,  and  give  it 
an  early  start,  vAhereas  otherwise  it  would  not  tell  until 
later,  when  the  roots  have  spread  well.  When  it  is  ap¬ 
plied  in  the  hill,  it  is  much  better  to  sprinkle  the 
handful  over  an  area  a  foot  in  diameter,  than  to  throw  it 
in  a  heap  as  most  farmers  usi^ally  do. 

•  Applyisag  Coaitrse  S&tiaasare. — A  cor¬ 
respondent  inquires  “  which  is  the  best  way  to  apply 
manure  to  gravelly  soil— draw  out  the  long  coarse 
manure  in  the  spring,  and  apply  it  directly  to  the  soil,  or 
pile  and  rot  it,  and  apply  it  in  the  fall?”— If  a  crop  of 
Indian  corn  or  potatoes  is  to  be  raised,  apply  the  coarse 
manure  in  the  spring.  For  grow  ing  either  winter  or 
spring  wheat  the  manure  ought  to  be  well  rotted  before 
it  is  applied,  as  coarse  unfermented  manure  is  not  the 
right  kind  of  fertilizer  to  apply  to  wheat,  barley,  oats  and 
flax.  In  case  a  s,andy  soil  is  tube  summer  fallowed,  it 
would  be  better  to  pile  the  coarse  manure,  or  compost  it 
and  apply  it  in  the  fall  to  -winter  wheat,  or  the  following 
spring  to  such  crops  as  are  to  be  raised,  tharf  to  mingle  it 
-  with  the  soil  8  or  12  months  before  the  seed  is  sowed. 

“  ©asg-lat  Fas-merts  to  IjaSsoa" 

Tliis  absurd  question  is  being  seriously  di.scussed  by  the 
contributors  to  some  of  the  agricultural  journals.  The  law- 
regulating  the  reward  of  labor,  viz.,  supply  and  demand, 
seems  to  be  overlooked,  as  well  as  the  principle  which 
underlies  all  just  governments,  that  all  men  have  a  right 
to  amass  property,  seek  their  ewn  happiness,  and  con¬ 
duct  their  own  affairs  in  their  own  w-ay,  provided  they  do 
not  interfere  with  other  people  doing  honestly  the  same 
thing.  If  a  farmer’s  labor  in  the  field  is  w-oi  th  $2  a  day, 
and  if  he  can  earn  three  times  a.s  much,  in  managing  his 
business,  buying  stock,  selling  his  [rrmlucls,  and  over¬ 
seeing  labor,  of  course  he  will  hire  an  extra  man,  put 
him  into  the  field  and  clear  $4  a  ilay  by  (he  operation. 
It  will  almost  always  be  necessary  for  every  farmer  to  do 
some  work— at  any  rate  it  is  a  great  ail  vantage  for  a  farm¬ 
er  to  be  able  to  do  any  kind  of  farm  work,  and  to  do  it  as 
well  or  belter  than  any  man  he  can  hire,  and  to  this  end 
he  should  “  keep  his  hand  in.” 

Csssasida.  'I'liistles. — D.  L.,  of  Wood  Co., 
Ohio,  writes :  “  I  knew  a  man  to  kill  ten  (10)  acres  of 
Canada  Thistles  in  one  summer,  and  the  field  was  so 
covered  with  them  that  a  per.«on  could  scarcely  get 
through.  He  plowed  them  once  each  month  during  the 
growing  season.”  Our  correspondent  adds :  “  This 
plowing  was  done  when  the  sign  was  in  the  heart."  An 
important  (?)  fact— but  these  thistles  were  “heartless 
intruders.” 

Fcaice  I®os4s  'F059  FbuI  U|9.— C.  Fro- 
vines,  Indiana,  writes:  “Some  strange  ideas  prevail 
here  in  regard  to  fence  posts.  Intelligent  farmers  tell  me 
that  posts  will  last  as  long  again  by  being  well  sea.'oned 
before  they  are  set,  and  the  top  ends  being  placed  in  (he 
ground.  And  1  see  all  the  fences  built  in  that  way,”  lie 


1805.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


7i 


a'.'fs.  ■'  Will  some  one  explain  why?” — There  Is  no 
.'-trniig  cvidenoe  that  posts  thus  set  will  last  longer  than 
if  limy  a  ere  set  with  the  top  end  up.  Until  the  evi¬ 
dence  i.s  produced,  no  reason  need  be  sought  why  a  post 
v\  ill  ileciiy  sooner  when  it  is  placed  top  end  up,  than 
when  it  is  set  the  other  way.  To  test  tliis,  we  once 
fence  posts  alternately  top  up  and  top  down,  in  the  same 
fence,  and  there  never  was  any  perceptible  difference  in 
the  time  of  their  decaying. 


^Yootl  waSSa  ESorse 
A  Subscriber  in  Darlington,  Pa.,  writes :  “  I  saw  my 
fire-wood  with  a  circular  saw,  driven  by  a  two-horse 
railway  power,  and  I  find  it  such  an  advantage  that  I 
never  intend  to  saw  any  more  vi^od  by  hand.  It  pleases 
the  women  very  much  to  have  plenty  of  seasoned  wood, 
pai  ticalarly  when  baking  buckwheat  cakes.”  We  are 
acquainted  with  a  young  man  in  Cayuga  Co.,  N.  V.,  who 
was  accustomed  to  do  all  his  threshing  with  a  flail,  and 
sawing  wood  by  hand.  At  our  suggestion,  he  purchased 
a  two-horse  threshing  machine  and  wood  saw.  When 
he  performed  all  this  work  by  hand,  he  was  obliged  to 
labor  very  hard  all  winter.  Now  he  does  his  own 
threshing  and  wood-sawing,  and  threshes  for  some  of 
ills  neighbors.  He  sawed  over  300  cords  of  wood  for 
them  (iuring  the  past  year,  besides  doing  all  his  own 
work.  He  finds  much  more  time  to  rest  and  read,  and 
not  half  the  amount  of  hard  labor  that  was  required 
when  he  threshed  and  sawed  by  hand.  lie  saws,  usu¬ 
ally,  three  cords  of  hard  wood,  twice  in  two,  per  hour 
running  time.  Tliis  practice  of  making  the  horses  do  the 
hard  work,  is  worthy  of  almost  universal  adoption. 

IVSssiasii'c  iba*  OhiIoms. — B.  G.ardner,  natnp- 
den  Co.,  itlass.  If  you  have  plenty  of  night  soil  composted 
with  loam  and  well  rotted  stable  manure,  you  need  not 
buy  either  guano  or  pliosphate.  An  equivalent  to  25  or 
SO  bushels  of  night  soil,  or  20  to  30  loads  of  stable  manure, 
sliould  be  used  to  the  acre.  The  Wethersfield  Red  is 
perhaps  the  best  market  sort.  Tellow  Danvers  is  very 
productive.  The  white  varieties  produce  less,  but  bring 
a  higher  price.  Our  Pamphlet  on  Onion  Culture  is  in¬ 
valuable  to  a  beginner. 

Mow  Moacla  Seed  ? — The  following  table 
is  from  the  new  Seed  Catalogue  of  Henderson  &  Flem¬ 
ing,  N.  Y.  It  will  be  found  useful  in  determining  how 
much  seed  to  order,  making  allowance  for  defects,  etc. 

I  ounce  of  Asiiaragiis  and  Cardoon,  about  600  plants, 
do  Broccoli,  Cabbage,  Cauliflower,  Egg¬ 
plant.  Kale,  Tomato,  Leek,  and  Pepper,  3000  “ 

do  Celery,  Endive,  and  Lettuce,  -  6000  “ 

do  Okra,  and  Spinach,  may  be  allotted  for  ev’y  100  ft.  row 
do  Beet,  do  do  do'  150  “ 

do  Onion,  Radish,  and  Salsify,  do  do  175  “ 

do  Carrot.  Parsley.  Parsnip  and  Turnip,  do  200 
dc  Cucumber,  is  sufficient  for  150  hills 

do  IMnskmelon,  “  I00-I25  “ 

do  Watermelon,  “  40-60  “ 

do  Pumpkin  and  Squash,  “  40-80  _  “ 

!  quart  Field  Pumpkin.  “  400-500  “ 

do  Dwarf  or  Bush  Beans  “  200  ft.  of  row  or  300  “ 

do  Pole  “  200  “  or  200-300  “ 

do  Peas  ”  150-200  ft.  of  row. 

Krsssla  Tor  E*eas. — J.  Cotton  Eastman.  The 
tall  growing  peas  do  better  with  brush.  The  medium 
sorts  wall,  perhaps,  fruit  as  well,  but  are  more  difficult  to 
pick,  if  allowed  to  fall  over.  For  garden  culture  the 
dwarf  sorts,  such  as  Tom  Thumb  and  Bishop’s  Dwarf  are 
convenient.  Drew’s  new  Dwarf,  is  a  new  sort  said  to  be 
very  good.  We  are  always  glad  to  hear  from  young  far¬ 
mers,  and  to  aid  them  when  possible. 

Tlie  lJ)epartmesi4  of 
— If  the  agricultural  community  have  any  Interest  in  the 
appointments  of  the  new  administration,  which  will  be 
inaugurated  on  the  4th  of  this  month,  it  is  in  reference  to 
the  Department  of  Agriculture.  They  expect,  and  justly, 
that  this  Department  shall  have  a  fair  chance  to  show  its 
uselnlness,  and  not  be  a  subject  of  ridicule.  They  ex¬ 
pect  the  appointment  of  a  head  who  is  sought  for  by  the 
pl.ace,  and  who  does  not  seek  the  place.  They  look  for 
a  man  who  stands  in  intimate  relations  to  the  agriculture 
of  the  country,  and  not  one  whose  chief  claim  to  the 
place  is  his  personal  services  to  one  particular  family. 
They  expect  a  Commissioner  of  broad  views  and  execu- 
livc  ability,  who  can  devote  his  time  to  the  interests  of 
the  country,  and  not  to  making  favor  with  members  of 
Congress.  They  expect  to  see  an  experimental  farm, 
which  shall  contain  the  best  kinds  of  stock,  and  where 
tlieir  comparative  value  shall  be  established  by  accurate 
experiments.  They  expect  that  the  mails  will  be  no 
-onger  weighted  down  with  rubbish  from  old  Philadelphia 
seed  stores  ;  that  tropical  seeds  will  not  be  sent  to  Wis¬ 
consin,  and  that  useless  seeds  will  not  be  sent^at  all. 
They  expect  that  reports  shall  be  made  which  shall  not 
be  diluted  by  writers  by  the  page,  but  which  shall  give 
results,  and  be  worth  more  than  a  yearly  volume  of  any 
good  agricultural  paper.  In  short,  theyexpect  that  some 


one  will  be  appointed  to  the  head  of  the  department  who 
will  get  out  of  the  old  ruts,  and  start  on  a  new  track  ;  and 
they  don’t  wish  the  head  of  the  Department  to  have  a 
seat  in  the  Cabinet. 

SoalciiRg-  IPeas. — “  Subscriber”  asks  if  it  is 
well  to  soak  peas.  They  will  come  up  sooner  if  soaked 
a  few  hours  in  warm  water,  and  it  is  quite  an  advantage 
to  treat  them  this  way,  if  the  ground  is  dry.  If  the  peas 
have  bugs  in  them,  pour  on  scalding  water  enough  to 
cover  them,  and  let  them  cool.  This  will  kill  the  bee¬ 
tles,  and  not  hurt  the  peas. 

TlRe  CoiRCOS-il  S®o!lc  SSeaa. — Two  Massa¬ 
chusetts  subscribers  who  have  cultivated  this  new  variety 
have  written  in  praise  of  it.  One  says :  “  It  is  very  ele¬ 
gant  in  appearance,  the  earliest  pole  bean  I  have  yet 
found.  It  is  good  as  a  string  or  shell  bean,  very  pro¬ 
lific,  averaging  a  pint  of  the  dried  beans  to  the  pole.  Mr. 
Burr  (author  of  Garden  Vegetables  of  America),  in  a  re¬ 
cent  article  in  Ilovey’s  Magazine,  gives  a  very  high  rank 
to  this  bean,  and  I  think  justly.”  We  have  received  a 
sample  of  this  bean,  and  it  appears  like  what  it  is  claimed 
to  be,  a  cross  between  the  London  Horticultural  and 
White  Pole  Cranberry,  two  excellent  varieties. 

CiaxiliJIowoi'S  asa  '’SViaotes*. — P.  'W'bilter- 
say.  New  Haven  Co.,  Conn.,  writes  that  he  is  now  en¬ 
joying  fine,  large  canlifiowers,  wliich  came  from  small 
and  poorly  formed  ones  planted  in  the  cellar  last  autumn. 
We  have  often  advised  this  plan. 

©aaioai  Catitaaa'e.  —  Numerous  inquiries 
are  made  about  the  culture  of  onions.  For  all  general 
information  we  refer  to  our  book  on  Onion  Culture,  which 
gives  the  experience  of  numerous  growers.  See  boo’k 
list.  A.  C.  Hayes,  Washington  Co.,  Iowa,  asks  if  we 
would  advise  him  to  try  an  onion  crop.  No  one  should 
undertake  to  raise  onions  who  cannot  command  plenty 
of  help,  as  there  is  a  great  amount  of  hoeing  and  weeding 
to  be  done  in  order  to  succeed.  Better  try  a  moderate 
extent  of  ground  at  first  to  learn  liie  routine  of  culture. 
New  land  is  not  suited  to  onions,  but  they  slio-uld  follow 
roots,  corn  or  otlier  hoed  crops.  Great  quantities  of  ma 
nure  must  be  used,  but  the  same  land  may  be  cropped 
year  after  year.  In  the  warmer  section  of  the  Middle 
States  the  season  is  too  hot  and  dry  for  onions  from  seed, 
and  there,  sets  must  be  grown  in  autumn,  and  kept  through 
tlie  winter  for  early  spring  planting.  Where  onions  hav  e 
not  been  before,  it  is  advised  to  sow  alternate  rows  of  car¬ 
rots,  as  the  onions  are  not  injured,  and  if  they  chance  to 
fail,  a  good  crop  of  carrots  pays  for  the  labor  expended. 

'EJpBamtl  Ci*aii'bcri*y. — R.  Hanford,  Mon¬ 
mouth  Co.,  N.  J.,  has  confounded  two  things  under 
the  name  of  “Upland  Cranberry.”  The  name  is  ap¬ 
plied  by  cultivators  to  a  variety  of  the  common  cran¬ 
berry  which  they  consider  best  adapted  to  dry  localities. 
It  is  also  one  of  the  popular  names  of  Uva  Ursi,  a  Bear- 
berry.  It  is  a  great  misfortune  that  many  of  our  native 
plants  have  several  popular  names. 

Castor  C&il  Beam  for  IVSoScs. — C.  F.  Ray¬ 
mond,  of  Fairfield  Co.,  Conn.,  states  that  a  dozen  castor 
oil  beans  planted  in  his  garden  drove  out  the  moles,  and 
that  they  staid  out  for  some  years.  The  plants  were  al¬ 
lowed  to  grow  during  the  season.  Others  say  the  sumo. 

®rass  for  a  Namte.— J.  Straur,  Tabotville, 
C.  W.,  sends  Phalaris  Canariensis,  or  Canary  grass,  tlie 
seed  of  which  is  used  as  food  for  Canary  birds.  It  is 
often  found  growing  wild  in  waste  places  where  rub¬ 
bish  from  bird  cages  has  been  thrown. 

l*Samt  lor  a  Name. — R.  L.,  Boston,  Mass. 
The  specimen  of  “Fox  plum,”  is  Mitckella  repens,  usually 
called  Partridge  berry, sometimes  Twinberry,  and  Tallow- 
beriy.  Probably  is  of  too  slow  growth  for  a  hanging  bas¬ 
ket,  and  we  doubt  if  it  will  endure  the  dry  heat  of  a  room. 

"File  4«-reeley  Fsaiit  Briztes. — It  ■will  be 
recollected  that  the  Hon.  Horace  Greeley  last  autumn 
offered  a  prize  of  $100  each  for  the  best  variety  of  grape, 
apple  and  pear  for  general  cultivation.  These  prizes 
were  to  be  awarded  by  the  Horticultural  Committee  of 
the  American  Institute.  The  notice  given  having  been 
too  brief  for  general  competition,  the  premiums  are  kept 
open  for  another  year.  At  a  recent  meeting  of  the  Com¬ 
mittee  the  following  judges  were  appointed  for  the  award 
of  these  premiums  :  Doctor  J.  A.  Warder,  Cincinnati, 
Ohio,  Chairman ;  Charles  Dovi-ning,  Newburg,  N.  Y, ; 
Dr.  I.  M.  Ward,  Newark,  N.  J. ;  L.  Ferris,  Throg’s 
Neck,  N.  Y. ;  Dr.  E.  W.  Sylvester,  Lyons,  N.  Y. ;  P.  J. 
Quinn,  Newark,  N.  J. ;  P.  B.  Mead,  and  W.  S.  Carpenter, 
New-York  City.  Three  exhibitions  will  be  held  in 
September,  October  and  November  next,  the  conditions 
of  which  will  liave  timely  publication.  Tliis  arrange¬ 
ment  is  made  with  the  consent  of  Mr.  Greeley,  and  will. 


doubtless,  be  satisfactory  to  fruit-growers  generally 
— In  this  connection  we  add,  that  in  a  recent  commnni 
cation  wliich  we  have  not  room  for,  .Mr.  Byrani  distinct 
iy  disclaims  any  intention  in  anything  he  has  previously 
said  or  written,  of  attrihuting  to  .M  r.  Greelev.  any  bui 
the  most  noble  and  philanlhrnidi-  molires  in  offering 
those  prizes.  Hesayst  “  Jlr.  Greeley  is  too  imiilc 
high-minded  to  lend  ids  aid  to  any  dislionorable  nr  cor 
rupt  measures  to  advance  his  own  interest  or  tlmt  of  his 
best  friend.” 

S^isie  CsaBiRcESisis. — Jlr.  Win.  (Jhoilton,  oi 
Staten  Island,  has  a  way  w  hicli  we  coinincml  to  the  con¬ 
sideration  of  otlier  fiori.sts.  Every  winter  lie  makes  „ 
show  upon  our  tables  of  the  most  beautiful  (huiKlIia-. 
Those  exhibited  this  year  are  of  Die  finest  varietie  s,  and 
beautiful  specimens.  As  Mr.  C.  is  not  a  coiiimcrcial 
florist,  he  does  not  do  this  as  an  advertisement,  but  jiisi 
for  the  love  of  it,  and  in  so  doing  he  gratifies  linndrcds 
witli  a  sight  of  excellent  specimens  of  tiiis  costly  flower. 

©R’japes  flbi*  Micliijjasj. — J.  G.  JI.,  Oak 
land  Co.,  Delaw'are,  is  Die  hardiest  of  the  good  grapc.s. 
Concord  and  Hartford  Prolific  would  doubtless  do  well 
with  you,  and  are  good  market  varieties.  It  makes  but 
little  practical  difference  wlieDier  stakes  or  trellises  are 
used,  provided  Die  training  is  properly  carried  out.  Be¬ 
fore  investing  much  in  a  vineyard  it  will  pay  to  visit 
Kelley’s  Island  or  some  other  locality  where  there  are 
established  vineyards,  and  study  operations  there. 

l>e5K-«'sire  CsattiiHg'fi. 

— J.  M.  Cook,  Ottawa  Co.,  Midi.  Cuttings  of  Die  Dela¬ 
ware  so  seldom  succeed  in  the  open  air,  that  it  is  about 
useless  to  try  them.  If  buried  in  the  fall  below  the  reach, 
of  frost  and  then  put  in  a  ■warm  and  moist  place,  a  few 
may  grow,  blit  more  likely  all  will  fail.  The  nursery¬ 
men  use  single  eyes,  and  start  them  in  sand  by  means  ol 
bottom  heat.  The  details,  wliicli  would  occupy  too 
much  space,  are  fully  given  in  Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist. 

'Flic  BcacSi  oil  tlie  WiSlow. — The  con¬ 
tributor  who  sends  us  a  description  of  Die  manner  in 
which  peach  trees  are  grown  in  Califoi  nia,'_by  grafting 
them  in  a  split  willow,  is  informed  that  lie  lias  been 
iiugely  humbugged  by  some  traveler’s  yarn. 

Tl'Iie  'Fi’l'bsiMe  Stra^^vBies'i'ies. — T.  L. 
Stringer  and  others.  These  were  sent  out  numliercd 
1,  2  and  3,  by  notches  upon  the  tallies,  whicli  were  at¬ 
tached.  The  names  are ;  first.  Col.  Ellsworth;  secDiid 
Monitor ;  third,  Brooklyn  Scarlet. 

lElaclc  Waples  Cas*i*aat. — Several  sub¬ 
scribers  think  tliat  we  did  not  deal  justly  by  the  Blac'K 
Currant  in  last  montli’s  basket.  We  there  expressed 
our  opinion  tliat  it  was  a  disagreeable  and  wortldes.s 
thing,  and  now  we  let  others  say  that  it  “  makes  a  good 
jelly,  fine  jam  and  excellent  wine  :  tlial  it  's  better  foi 
tarts,  pies  and  preserves  than  the  wliile  currant.”  Medi¬ 
cinal  qualities  are  also  ascribed  to  it.  Now  both  sides 
are  given,  and  let  those  who  like  them  grow  them. 

S*ears  on  tSie  ’’FIsoi-k.— .1.  G.  D  ,  McLeur. 
Co.,  III.,  has  tried  grafting  the  pear  on  Die  wild  Diorn 
with  fair  success.  The  trees  produced  moderately,  and 
the  fruit  was  good.  He  thinks  tliat  it  may  be  made  to  an¬ 
swer  a  good  purpose  wliere  other  stocks  cannot  be  had. 
The  grafting  should  be  done  on  Die  root. 

“AsMim©l>i5am”  wishes  to  know  how  to  make 
the  seeds  of  Ammohium  alatum  germinate.  We  never  liad 
any  difficulty  with  it  when  sown  in  the  ordinary  way. 
Probably  the  seeds  were  covered  too  deep — a  common 
cause  of  failure  with  most  flower  and  other  seeds. 

Caalti-yaiioia  of  15Ealli>!5. — C.  C.  Smith, 
JIarshall  Co.,  Iowa ;  Bliss  of  Springfield,  Mass.;  Vick  OJ 
Rochester,  Thoiburn,  and  Bridgeman,  both  of  New 
York  City,  and  others,  publish  special  bulb  catalogues 
which  contain  directions  for  the  culture  of  each  sort 
and  which  will  be  sent  on  application  to  them. 

FaiBler  is  Ooissg’. — A.  S.  Fuller,  the  well- 
known  nurseryman,  finding  lii.s  place  in  Brooklyn  loo 
small,  has  taken  extensive  grounds  in  New  Jersey.  His 
address  until  May  1st,  will  lie  Brooklyn,  and  after  Dial 
date,  Godwinville,  N.  J. 

I^O'4’clties  ABStoBig:  B''lo'*vet-!s. — B.  K. 
Bliss  advertises  a  pure  white  IHcentra  spectabilis,  v.  \\\ch 
by  the  way,  florists  will  persist  in  calling  "  Dielylra." 
Under  either  name  it  will  prove  valuable  if  it  is  as  good 
as  the  original.  Peter  Henderson  comes  out  with  a  new 
Pansy,  which  rejoices  in  Die  name  of  “  Good  Gracious.” 
Despite  the  odd  name  ii  is  very  double  and  very  pretty. 
We  shall  next  have  flowers  labelled  “How  you  talk;” 

••  1  want  to  kii  iw,"  and  ••  Von  ,lou  t  sav  .so,” 


— ^I'liosc  who  prefer  chriide- 

tMijs  |!i  oihcr  "icons  onn  Inke  a  hint  from  Daniel  Emer¬ 
son,  Summit  Co..  Oiiio.  lie  says,  “  1  let  a  few  dozen 
linn  lelioM  roots  grow  in  the  ricliesl  part  of  my  garden, 
and  cultivate  tliem  from  year  to  year.  Very  eaily  in  tlie 
spring,  our  neigidiors  see  witli  amazement  that  we  have 
greens  long  before  they  have  begun  to  tliink  of  them.” 

A  w  CsaBfisellia..— Mr.  Isaac  Buchanan,  of 
.\.s6 ;?  ia,  lias  raised  a  new  red  seedling,  wliicii  is  quite  ve¬ 
rnal  Kable  for  its  size,  and  very  ricit  color,  Tlie  flower 
measures  over  fire  inciies  across,  and  the  petels  are 
over  two  inches  broad.  Mr.  B.  names  it  Camellia 
Tkuibiri;  it  is  a  very  striking  variety. 

Ssjccc.^st'sal  CSs'ajje  Cwi'aftisag*. — Mr.  H. 
Tronsue,  Nortliampton  Co.,  Pa.,  states  that  he  followed 
tlie  instructions  for  grafting  the  grape  given  in  the  AgH- 
citllurist  for  Sept.  1S63.  In  March  1864,  he  set  a  graft  of 
Concord  and  Maxatawney  into  two  common  grape  roots. 
Tlie  Concord  made  35  feet  and  the  Maxat<awney  62  feet 
of  ripened  wood,  and  large  and  vigorous  in  proportion. 
The  process  is  recommended  to  be  done  in  early  winter, 
before  the  ground  freezes,  but  it  may  be  done  very  early 
in  tlie  spring.  Remove  the  earth  for  a  few  inches  around 
tile  worthless  vine,  cut  it  off.  and  put  in  a  graft  of  some 
valuable  sort.  Let  the  cion  be  of  one  good  eye  and  put 
in  like  an  ordinary  cleft  graft.  Tie  the  stock  with  bass 
matting  or  yarn  and  cover  with  earth.  Grafting  is  only  to 
be  recommended  where  there  is  a  valueless  vine.  We 
would  not  set  out  a  vine  for  the  purpose  of  grafting  it. 

'a’4*iat  €t;5tCB"8sillas-s.— An  experteneed  fruit 
flower  on  Long  Island,  sends  tlie  follovi ing  seasonable 
item  :  Last  year  we  had  a  hard  job  to  destroy  all  their 

nests  in  our  orcliard,  but  we  succeeded  witli  tlie  excep¬ 
tion  of  perhaps  lialf  a  dozen.  But  tlie  moths  came  from 
the  wild  clierry  trees  and  otliers’  orcliards  near  by,  and 
iaiil  tlieireggs  on  the  outside  rows.  One  pleasant  day  of 
last  month,  after  a  rain,  we  went  around,  and  in  abont 
tiiree  Innirs  collected  300  nests,  containing  about  100,000 
eggs,  t  took  them  to  the  Farmers’  Club,  gave  a  history  of 
their  habits,  and  presented  tliem  to  tlie  members  to  ex¬ 
amine,  in  order  that  tliey  might  destroy  tlie  eggs  on  their 
trees,  as  it  takes  much  less  time  than  when  hatched.” 

Siees»isE"  Ssaaolcecl  Heats,  —  Philip 
Fisclier,  Clark  Co.,  Ind„  asks :  “  Can  you  not  give  us 
a  good  methoil  for  keeping  smoked  meats  in  summer?” 
(1)  Pack  ill  dry  salt,  (2)  Let  them  hang  in  a  tight  smoke 
house,  and  make  a  smoke  once  in  a  while,  especially  in 
fly  time.  (3)  Pack  in  tight  barrels,  and  fill  up  with 
strong  brine.  The  first  way  named  is  probably  the  best. 

AcisBEowletlg'saieiat. — We  have  received 
and  handed  to  tlie  U.  S.  CHRISTIAN  COMMISSION, 
$78  80,  from  B.  O.  Steplicnson.  the  proceeds  of  a  festival 
in  behalf  of  Sick  and  Wounded  Soldiers,  held  in  Nevins- 
ville,  Adams  Co.,  Iowa:  also  $I  from  J.  H.  Fowler, 
Weslchesler  Co.,  N.  Y. ;  50  cents  from  Francis  Turkel, 
Guernsey  Co.,  O.— For  the  U.  S.  SANITARY  COMMIS¬ 
SION  :  from  “  G,”  Green  Co.,  Wis.,  $3  ;  from  11.  Groen- 
wokl,  Stephenson  Co.,  Ill.,  50  cents  ;  from  W.  G.Talbul, 
Huron  Co.,  Mich.,  $1 ;  Watson  Robinson,  $1  :  Mrs.  G. 
Marsliall,  50  cents;  Easterbrook,  $1;  Thos.  Philip, 
$1;  John  Peacock,  50  cents,  Mr.  Whilelam,  50  cents. 

ISoolc  l®i*  — No  book  that 

we  liave  ever  read  gave  us  so  much  information  in  re¬ 
gard  to  the  habits  and  nature  of  the  honey-bee  as  the 
work  of  Mr.  Langstrotli.  This  book  with  the  monllily 
hint  under  the  liead  “Apiary”  in  each  number  of  the 
Agriculturist  will  furnisli  as  good  a  guide  as  the  bee¬ 
keeper  need  to  have.  See  book-list. 

New-^paper,  or  SJiscle 
Sam’s  Journal,— The  concern  which  under  the 
name  of  the  Department  of  Agriculture,  uses  up  a  goodly 
share  of  the  taxes  paid  by  hard-working  farmers,  has 
resumed  tlie  issue  of  an  Agricultural  paper  under  the 
name  of  Monthly  Report.  We  should  not  so  much  mind 
tills  if  it  went  to  those  wlio  paid  for  it ;  but  as  it  cannot  go 
to  every  farmer,  we  object  to  publishing  a  paper  for  the 
favored  few.  This  monthly  report  is  so  cumbersome, 

^  thill  according  to  the  Commissioner,  “  it  requires  from 
"  fifteen  to  twenty  days  to  have  the  reports  printed,  folded, 
stitcJied  and  trimmed.”  Stop  tliem  altogether,  and  save 
fifteen  to  twenty  days  of  valuable  time,  and  also  of  paper 
w  hich  in  its  white  stale  has  a  decided  market  value,  but 
ill  the  shape  of  a  “  report”  is  of  precious  little  use.  It 
may  interest  the  people  in  Clinton,  III.,  to  know  that 
tliere  was  “  bright  zig-zag  lighlning  in  the  Southeast  at 
7  P.  M.”  on  December  2d,  and  for  the  people  in  Ottawa,  in 
tlie  same  Slate,  to  have  it  recorded  that  on  December 
<lh,  th.erp  were  “  wild  geese  flying  eastward  this  morn¬ 
ing.”  But  faripers  mostprefer  to  wait  until  war  expenses 
abate  before  these  geese  or  any  other  are  brought  be- 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


fore  tlie  public  at  their  expense.  The  report  contains  an 
article  on  hops,  an  excellent  .specimen  of  job  work  made 
up  mainly  from  European  authorities,  and  containing 
much  that  is  incorrect.  New  York  liop  growers  will  be 
glad  to  hear  from  thi.s  paper  that  they  can  learn  the  soil 
and  manure  best  adapted  to  the  growth  of  the  hop  from  its 
analysis,  which  is  all  very  scientific,  but  not  very  prac¬ 
tical.  If  the  Commissioner  must  come  before  the  public 
every  month,  all  that  is  useful  in  his  report  may  be  put 
in  a  single  sheet,  which  might  be  issued  from  any  New- 
York  office  in  a  single  day. 

BIools  for  BSwclcets  otSici* 

purposes, — A  subscriber  in  Otsego  Co.,  N.  Y.,  sends 
one  of  the  hooks  he  uses  to  support  his  wooden  san  buck¬ 
ets.  The  hook  made  twice  the  size  here  shown,  is  driv¬ 
en  inverted  firmly  into  tlie  tree  ;  the  edge  of  the  buck¬ 
et  is  then  placed  between  the  hook  and  the  tree,  and 
pulled  out  slightly  so  that  the  tooth  on  the  hook  shall 
take  ho!d  a  little.  Thus  it 
iiijjMi1Sfi!i’l!i!i|ii||il|||[||{B  will  be  held  perfectly  se- 

'  I  ii  cure.  This  is  probably  the 

I  H  most  convenient  way  to 

1  ffl  suspend  buckets  when  they 

I  W  must  be  hung  liigh  above 
the  reacli  of  cattle,  etc.  Sap 
flows  equally  well  at  a  hight,  as  near  the  ground  This 
contriv.ance  is  applicable  to  hang  buckets  in  other  places. 


“  I’eacSiers’  As'eiicies.” — We  li.ave  oft- 
repeated  inquiries  from  different  parts  of  the  country 
respecting  tlie  value,  the  reliability,  etc.,  of  this,  that, 
and  the  other  “  agency  ”  for  securing  teachers,  which  it 
is  usually  impracticable  to  answer.  We  can  conceive 
of  sucli  an  agency,  conducted  honestly  and  economically, 
as  being  of  material  advantage  to  both  teachers  and  em¬ 
ployers — a  sort  of  Intelligence  office,  wliere  is  kept  a 
record  of  vacancies  and  unemployed  talent.  We  would 
not  advise  a  teacher  to  send  $5  or  $10  to  unknown  par¬ 
ties,  merely  to  have  a  name  recorded  among  a  great 
number  of  others.  Let  the  agency  assume  some  risk ; 
a  nominal  charge  of  50  cents  or  $1,  for  postage,  trouble, 
etc.,  is  all  tliat  should  be  made,  until  something  is 
actually  accomplished  for  the  teacher.  When  a  place  is 
secured,  a  small  percentage  upon  the  salary  obtained 
would  be  proper.  There  are  a  multitude  of  teachers  re¬ 
turned  from  the  South,  who  are  seeking  occupation,  and 
it  is  hard  upon  such  to  send  perhaps  their  last  $5  to 
some  agency,  with  no  certainty  of  having  any  relum.  It 
is  proper  that  we  should  say.  in  this  connection,  tliat  our 
remarks  do  not  apply  to  the  advertisement,  last  month,  of 
the  Educational  Agency  of  Prof.  Nash,  formerly  of  Am¬ 
herst  College.  From  what  we  know  of  him,  we  believe 
he  is  aiming  to  promote  the  best  interests  of  both  teach¬ 
ers  and  employers,  and  at  a  very  moderate  remuneration. 

TIae  Spring’  advertised  in 

last  month’s  Agriculturist,  is  sold  at  $100;  aspreading 
of  the  types  made  the  price  look  like  one  dollar. 

A  Word  to  dorrespoMtleiats. — Very 
many  letters  would  have  been  answered  had  the  basket 
room  been  larger.  Be  patient.  Please  always  give 
full  address,  which  will  be  omitted  if  de.sired.  No 
letters  of  a  merely  personal  nature  are  answered,  un¬ 
less  postage  for  reply  is  inclosed,  and  not  then  if  the 
information  desired  requires  time  for  investigation.  We 
repeat  that  we  cannot  reply  in  “  the  next  Agricultu¬ 
rist"  where  to  gel  a  hundred  different  tilings.  The  seed- 
men,  nurserymen  and  implement-makers,  rvho  adver¬ 
tise  in  our  columns,  all  of  them  have  all  the  usual  articles 
in  their  line.  Those  who  have  specialties  advertise 
them.  Inquiries  about  the  potatoes  figured  in  February 
are  informed  tliat  we  know  of  no  seed  for  sale, 

Amy  ©me  Iiaviisg  Fifty  I>olIars  or  up¬ 
ward,  that  he  can  possibly  spare,  should  put  it  into  one 
of  the  7.30  U.  S.  Bonds,  now  offered.  Not  only  will  it 
help  to  furnish  the  means  of  speedily  finishing  up  the 
war,  but  it  will  be  a  good  investment.  We  urged  oiir 
readers  to  buy  the  old  5.20s,  and  all  who  did  so  have  not 
only  drawn  six  per  cent  in  gold,  but  they  can  sell  the 
bonds  to-day  for  ten  or  twelve  per  cent  advance.  The 
new  bonds  now  offered  bring  7-3-10  per  cent  interest  for 
years,  and  then  every  holder  can  have  his  money 
back,  or  demand  a  5-20,6-per  cent  gold  bond,  which  are 
likely  to  be  quite  as  valuable  as  the  old  ones,  because 
having  longer  to  run.  Some  prefer  railroad  and  other 
securities,  lest  reverses  should  happen  to  the  Govern¬ 
ment  and  depress  its  bonds.  But  should  the  Government 
paper  depreciate,  all  other  values  would  go  down  with  it. 
We  do  not  fear  failure.  Our  cause  is  just,  and  Provi¬ 
dence  will  make  it  wholly  successful,  and  this  year,  too, 
we  believe.  Let  every  one  who  can,  contribute  towards 
it  by  investing  all  the  money  he  can  spare,  in  the  govern¬ 
ment  bonds.  Most  banks  throughoat  the  country  will 
furnish  the  Bonds.  Those  remote  from  banks  can  pro- 


[Maech, 


cure  them  through  tlie  Government  agents,  as  noted  in 
tlie  advertisements  of  Messrs.  Fi.sk  &  Hatch,  and  Jay 
Cooke,  which  from  patriotic  considerations,  we  give  a 
prominent  position  here  in  tlie  reading  columns. 

Am  Excellent  S.  S.  l*a,f»er, — “  The  Hun 
day  School  Times",  edited  by  Joliii  S.  Hart  and  I.  N. 
Baker,  and  published  weekly  by  J.  C.  Garrigues  &,  Co., 
Philadelphia,  at  $1.50  per  year,  is  a  very  valuable  joornm 
for  Superintendents  and  Teachers.  It  contaiii.s  ;i  large 
amount  of  information,  hints,  and  suggestions  highly  use¬ 
ful  not  only  to  Sunday-School  people,  hut  also  lo  teach¬ 
ers  in  secular  schools,  and  to  pateiiis.  We  often  find  in 
it  single  articles,  worth  more  than  the  annual  subscrip¬ 
tion.  Send  to  the  publishers  for  a  specimen  number. 

nm  I 

CUtiTI¥ATI«M  II  ®P^. 

Hop  Essays— Award  of  Prizes. 

A  l.arge  number  ot  responses  have  been  received  tf> 
the  offer  of  prizes  for  the  best  Essays  on  the  Culture  ol 
Hops,  and  their  preparation  for  market.  It  was  very 
difficult  to  find  practical  hop-growers  to  wliom  the  de 
cision  in  regard  lo  relative  value  of  these  essays  could  be 
referred,  and  by  wliom  the  prizes  could  be  awarded,  and 
have  this  Committee  act  in  time  to  enable  us  to  pub- 
lish  the  first  prize  essay  the  presenl  month.  Tlie  sub¬ 
ject  was,  tlierefore,  referred  to  llie  A.ssociate  Editors  of 
tlie  Agriculturist,  who  were  happy  in  receiving  the  as¬ 
sistance  of  Hon.  George  H.  Andrews,  of  the  N,  Y.  State 
Senate,  in  the  decisions,  especialiy  upon  one  very  impor¬ 
tant  point,  viz. :  Wlietiieran  article  advising  tlie  use  of 
certain  patent  riglits  and  methods  depending  on  their 
use  ought  lo  be  entertained  ?  Mr.  Andrews  has  long  been 
a  cultivator  of  tlie  hop.  and  for  many  years  the  editor  and 
publislier  of  “The  Hop  Growers’  Journal”  (now  no 
longer  issued),  and  is  probably  better  qualified  lo 
judge  than  any  one  else  in  this  connti-y'.  Wilh  Ids  ap¬ 
proval,  therefore,  we  feel  warranted  in  awarding  tlie  first 
prize  ($40)  to  the  writer  of  the  essay  below  given.  It  is 
to  be  regretted  tliat  it  is  not  more  fully  illustrated.  Tlie 
author,  however,  is  preparing  other  drawings,  which  will 
appear  in  the  book  or  pamphlet  .«oon  to  be  issued,  em 
bodying  all  tliat  is  valuable  in  these  essays,  with  much 
additional  information.  The  Second  prize  ($20)  is  aw  arded 
to  “  E.  O.  L.,”  Vernon,  Vermont,  an  excellent  arlicle, 
well  illustrated.  The  ff’hird  prize  ($15)  is  awarded  lo 
S.  B.  Ryder,  Coventry,  Vermont. 

Culture,  HryiHg,  and  Haling  of  Hops. 

FIRST  PRIZE  ESSAY. 

BY  HERMAN  C.  COLLINS,  MORRIS,  OT.SEGO  CO.,  K.  Y. 

Varieties.— There  are  many  varieties  of  hops  ciiltivat 
ed  in  this  country,  but  English  Cluster  and  Grape  Hops 
succeed  best.  The  Pompey  Hop  is  very  large,  with 
long  arms,  but  it  is  more  injured  by  rust  and  insects  tliaii 
the  first  mentioned,  on  which  the  hops  liang  in  large 
clusters,  and  both  are  early  varieties. 

Soil  and  Situation.— The  situation  for  a  hop  yard 
should  be  such  that  there  is  a  free  circulation  of  air - 
never  by  thick  woods  in  a  valley,  for  there  rust,  blight, 
mould,  and  lice  most  abound.  They  should  have  plenty 
of  sunshine,  which  is  the  surest  preventive  for  all  tliese. 
The  soil  should  be  dry  in  winter,  and  have  no  water 
on  the  surface  at  any  time.  If  not  naturally  rich  enough 
it  can  be  made  so  by  manuring.  Any  soil  where  good 
crops  of  corn  or  potatoes  can  he  grown  is  suitable,  but 
it  should  be  easily  worked  and  kept  mellow,  as  there  is 
much  cultivation  to  be  done.  Where  wheat  will  not 
grow,  the  soil  must  have  lime,  if  hops  are  planted.  In 
central  New-York,  they  are  raised  on  very  high  land, 
where  none  but  the  smaller  varieties  of  corn  will  grow. 

Planting. — Tlie  best  time  to  plant  a  hop  yard  is  in 
the  spring,  as  early  as  the  ground  can  be  worked.  The 
ground  should  be  plowed  and  made  as  tine  and  mellow  as 
possible  ;  then  slake  it  off,  and  eitlier  mark  it  out  with  a 
plow  or  line  it,  and  plant  wilh  a  “dibble,”  which  is  tire 
surest  way  to  have  the  plants  all  live.  Corn,  potatoes, 
or  any  other  hoed  crop  can  be  raised  tlie  first  year  wilh 
the  hops.  The  rows  should  never  "be  less  Ilian  8  feet 
apart,  and  on  the  rich  bottom  lands  of  the  West  9  or  10 
feet  is  better.  Make  the  hills  the  same  distance  apart 
both  ways,  and  the  rows  perfectly  straight.  It  is  a  great 
mistake  to  have  the  hills  crowded,  as  they  often  are  in 
some  yards,  to  7  feet  each  way,  or  even  less. 

The  sets  for  planting,  are  runners  from  old  vinos, 
which  can  be  had  from  any  old  yard.  Care  must  be  taken 
to  keep  the  sets  from  male  plants  separate  from  the 
others.  The  hop  is  a  diacious  plant,  tliat  is,  having  tlie 
staminate  or  male,  and  pistillate  or  female  flowers,  on 
separate  plants.  There  sliould  be  about  one  male  hill  to 
every  eight  hills,  each  way,  or  one  in  sixty-four,  making 
from  eight  to  twelve  to  the  acre.  These  liills  should  be 


1665.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


73 


rtiiirked  by  a  stake  at  planting,  to  enable  one  to  clis- 
linquisli  them  at  a  glance.  The  sets  should  be  cut  to 
two  pairs  of  eyes  eacli,  (if  very  short  jointed,  three  pairs 
of  eves  may  be  left.)  and  three  to  five  of  these  should  be 
put  in  a  iiill,  according  to  the  condition  they  are  in. 
Thev  are  usually  planted  in  a  furrow  made  by  a  plow, 
whicli  must  be  from  2  to  4  inches  deep,  according  as 
tlie  soil  is  light  or  heavy.  If  planted  too  deep,  they  will 
not  come  up  well.  Sets  are  usually  sold  by  the  bushel ; 
2  to  3  bushels  for  an  acre.  When  yards  are  planted  with 
good,  fresh  sets,  ant  it  is  done  early,  there  is  very  little 
risk  of  failure.  Often  large  yards  are  planted  without 
losing  a  single  hill.  When  the  ground  is  very  mellow, 
■W'ith  but  few  stones,  dibble  the  lioles  just  deep  enough  to 
let  the  sets  be  under  the  ground,  and  3  or  4  inches  apart ; 
press  the  soil  around  them,  and  mark  the  place  with  astick. 

Cultivation  the  First  Year.— The  cultivation  con¬ 
sists  in  keeping  the  weeds  down,  and  the  ground  mel¬ 
low.  One  day’s  work  in  season,  is  better  than  two  later. 
If  good  sets  are  used,  and  they  are  planted  very  early, 
it  will  pay  to  raise  a  crop  the  first  year,  and  the  plants 
will  be  the  better  for  it.  Set  one  stake  to  each  hill,  and 
let  all  the  vines  run  upon  it.  The  stake  sliould  bebut  8  feet 
long,  and  set  1  foot  in  the  ground;  if  longer  than  tliat, 
the  vines  will  not  get  to  the  top  in  season  to  “  hop  ”  well. 
It  is  best  to  stake  the  plants,  because  then  they  are  out 
of  the  w.ay  in  cultivating  the  yard,  and  do  not  get  torn 
off.  We  raise  from  200  to  400  pounds  to  the  acre  the  first 
year,  at  no  cost,  except  picking  and  drying,  besides  the 
eullivation,  whicli  must  be  done  if  even  none  are  raised. 
The  stakes  may  be  pieces  of  old  hop  poles,  or  better,  IK 
inch  square  sawed  stuff,  8  feet  long  (there  is  one  foot 
lioard  measure  in  each  stake).  It  pays  well  to  get  gas 
tar,  which  costs  but  $1  or  $2  per  barrel.  Heat  it  in  a 
pan  made  for  the  purpose,  and  dip  tlie  whole  stake  into 
it  vviiile  it  is  hot.  This  makes  a  firm  coat  of  paint  on  the 
stake,  protects  it  from  the  weather,  and  at  the  same 
time  is  very  offensive  to  insects,  and  plant  lice  ^gjl  not 
lay  tlieir  eggs  on  it  in  the  fall.  In  the  autumn  of 
tlie  first  year,  a  covering  of  two  forkfuls  of  coarse 
manure  sliould  be  given  tlie  hills,  and  if  there  is  any 
chance  of  water  standing  on  the  surface,  furrows  must 
be  plowe  l  for  surface  drains,  for  it  will  kill  the  hills  it 
covers.  Cattle  sliould  never  be  pastured  in  hop  yards 
ill  the  fall,  especially  not  in  young  yards.  There  should 
be  no  grass  for  them  to  eat,  though  there  too  often  is. 

Training. — Throughout  tlie  hop  region  of  New-York, 
young  trees  have  been  cut,  for  many  years,  for  use  as 
hop  poles.  Tliis  has  gone  on  until  the  price  has  risen 
from  2  or  3  cents  to  20  or  30  cents  each,  and  large  quan¬ 
tities  are  brought  from  Canada  and  the  wilderness  of 
Northern  New-York,  by  canal  and  rail,  and  then  drawn 
with  teams  to  tlie  yards,  frequently  from  10  to  25  miles. 
Hardwood  poles  last  from  2  to  5  years,  the  best  cedar 
poles  but  10,  and  many  poles  break  dowm  with  their  load, 
jr  are  broken  down  by  the  wind  every  year,  which 
causes  a  total  loss  of  the  hops  on  them,  and  frequently 
on  one  or  two  adjoining  poles.  The  common  method 
Allows  two  poles,  18  to  30  feet  long,  to  each  hill.  Being 
so  long,  the  wind  whips  them,  breaking  off  many  of  the 
arms,  so  tliat  often  a  considerable  part  of  the  crop  is 
•lesti  oyed  in  this  way.  Wlien  the  crop  grown  upon  the 
poles  is  picked,  many  hills  are  killed,  and  all  are  injured 
by  bleeding  of  the  vines,  which  must  be  cut  off. 

Horizontal  Hop  Yard.— There  is  a  new  method  in 
vogue  in  this  State,  which  has  been  used  in  Otsego  Co. 
to  some  extent  for  three  years  past,  and  the  last  year  it 
w'as  used  all  through  this,  and  in  some  other  States, 
viz.,  “  Collins’  Horizontal  Hop  Yard.”  It  was  describ¬ 
ed  in  the  American  Agriculturist  for  May,  1864,  and 
is  illustrated  in  the  opposite  column.  I  shall  confine 
my  directions  for  raising  hops  mostly  to  this  plan,  as 
I  consider  it  as  far  superior  to  the  common  plan,  with 
long  poles,  as  the  Mower  and  Horse-Rake  are  to  the 
haying  implements  used  by  the  Last  generation.  There 
is  but  one  stake  to  the  hill,  and  this  is  8  or  9  feet  long, 
and  set  1  foot  in  tlie  ground.  The  best  and  cheapest 
stakes  are  IK-inch  square  sticks,  sawed  at  any  saw-mill, 
left  rough,  and  entirely  coated  with  coal  tar.  Where 
this  plan  is  introduced  into  old  yards,  old  poles,  cut  in 
two  are  used  ;  yet  it  is  far  better  to  use  the  square  stuff 
above  described,  than  to  cut  down  a  tree  for  each  stake. 

The  outer  row  of  stakes  should  be  8  or  10  feet  outside 
of  the  outer  row  of  vines,  and  where  next  a  fenee,  put 
them  on  the  line  of  it.  These  should  be  2K  inches  square, 
or  if  round,  about  as  large  as  a  common  hop-pole,  and  set 
a  little  deeper  than  the  others.  For  the  inside  hills, 
round  stakes,  an  inch  through,  are  as  good  as  larger  ones. 
The  tops  of  all  the  stakes  are  connected  by  a  twine 
running  across  the  yard  both  ways — it  is  tied  to  the  outer 
stakes  only,  and  wound  once  around  the  inner  ones. 
TJse  good  twine— wool  or  broom  twine,  made  out  of 
hemp  or  linen.  At  the  present  price  of  twine  it  is  best  to 
raise  the  flax  and  spin  it;  two  or  three  threads  making  a 
small  twine  that  will  measure  about  700  feet  to  the 
pound  ;  this  is  strong  enough,  and  lighter  is  often  used, 
and  if  tarred  with  good  pine  tar  it  wilt  last  several  years. 


Tarred  hemp  twine  at  present  costs  25  to  27  cents  per 
pound  at  wholesale  in  New  York,  and  from  35  to  40  cents 
through  the  country.  A  kind  should  be  used  that  will  not 
weigh  more  than  25  pounds  per  acre  ;  but  I  like  best  a 
good  home-made  twine  at  about  15  pounds  per  acre.  The 
cost  for  twine  is  at  present  from  6  to  10  dollars  for 
an  acre,  but  four  years  ago  it  cost  only  3  or  4  dollars. 

At  the  male  hills,  put  one  tall  pole  about  18  feet  long,  so 
that  the  m;ile  vines  will  run  up  it,  and  the  wind  can  blow 
the  pollen  over  the  yard.  The  string  should  pass  these 
poles  free,  so  that  the  wind  will  not  break  the  twdne. 

The  cost  of  preparing  a  yard  in  this  manner  is  as  follows  : 
750  feet  lumber  for  stakes,  at  $15®$20  ;  gas  tarring  stakes 
$2  ;  25  pounds  twine,  at  30  cents,  $7  50  ;  setting  stakes  $1  ; 
putting  on  twine  50  cents  ;  right  per  acre  $10.  Total  cost 
after  setting  vines  $36.  Cost  of  yard  with  long  poles, 
1,400  poles,  20  cts.  each,  $280  ;  sharpening  $10  ;  setting  $7. 
Total  cost,  not  counting  hauling — after  setting  vines,  $297. 

Second  Year.— In  spring  the  yard,  as  soon  as  v.”y 
enough  to  work,  must  be  grubbed,  Hoe  the  dirt  fn.m  tne 
hill  without  injuring  the  crown  of  the  root.  Wit*'  „  knife, 
cut  off  all  tlie  old  vines  smooth,  and  any  runrie;  s  'hat  are 
seen.  Never  tear  them  off  nor  cut  them  vv  ith  the  hoe. 
At  the  same  time  examine  whether  there  are  any  grubs 
in  the  hill,  and  kill  all  found.  There  are  two  kinds  of 
grub,  one  which  makes  a  beetle,  witb  a  dark  hard  head, 
and  wliite  body,  with  legs  all  on  the  forepart  of  the  body. 
It  is  always  found  doubled  up  like  a  horse  shoe.  The 
other  is  a  cateroillar  which  makes  a  butterfly.  Both  must 
be  killed  wlierever  found.  Leave  the  hill  nearly  bare. 
If  the  stakes  are  in  the  yard  they  must  now  be  set,  but  if 
not,  it  is  best  to  plow  first.  In  setting,  use  a  common 
light  crowbar,  and  set  about  a  foot  deep,  rather  deeper 
for  outside  hills,  and  nearly  twice  as  deep  for  the  long 
pole  at  the  male  hill.  Then  plow  out  the  yard,  and  after 
plowing  take  out  the  runners  or  sets.  These  .are  only 


found  in  a  yard  after  the  second  year,  and  if  well  saved, 
are  worth  from  50  cts.  to  one  dollar  and  a  half  per  bushel. 
Break  them  as  little  as  possible,  and  do  not  let  them  lie 
long  in  the  sunshine,  nor  be  frozen  while  out  of  the 
ground.  In  setting  the  stakes,  all  the  holes  should  be  on 
the  same  side  of  the  hill,  so  that  in  plowing  you  can  tell 
how  to  guide  the  horse  that  he  may  not  step  on  the  crown. 
After  taking  out  the  sets,  hoe  the  dirt  back  upon  the  hills 
so  that  the  ground  will  be  nearly  level,  and  put  on  the 
twine.  When  the  stakes  are  but  seven  feet  liigli,  a  man 
can  easily  put  it  on  from  the  ground,  but  a  boy  or  girl 
can  do  it  with  alight  stool.  The  twine  is  carried  in  a 
basket  slung  over  the  shoulder  out  of  the  way.  Never 
tie  the  twine  except  at  the  end  stakes,  and  only  wind  once 
around  the  others,  passing  at  the  tall  polls  at  the  male 
hills.  Have  all  stakes  the  same  length.  When  the  vines 
get  up  two  or  three  feet  high,  they  must  be  tied.  Tie  four 
to  each  stake  except  in  the  outer  row  of  liills  where  five 
or  six  may  be  tied,  so  as  to  fill  the  strings  to  tiie  outer  row 
of  stakes.  Put  the  vines  around  the  stake  the  way  the  sun 
goes,  or  they  will  not  run,  and  tie  w  ith  soft  bass  malting 
or  old  woolen  yarn. 

Cultivate  often,  for  it  will  save  a  great  deal  of  hoeing. 
The  five-toothed  cultivator  is  best,  but  when  the  yard 
gets  grassy,  the  plow  is  the  only  thing  that  will  do  the 
work ;  never  let  the  weeds  get  the  upper  hand.  The 
vines  will  need  tieing  up  as  often  as  any  leave  the  pole, 
but  it  must  never  be  done  on  a  cold  day,  nor  early  in  the 
morning,  as  then  they  will  break,  and  whenever  one  has 
its  head  broken  off,  it  must,  if  not  up  to  the  strings,  be 
taken  down,  and  another  vine  from  the  ground  be  put  in 
its  place.  When  the  smallest  vines  have  got  a  good 
start,  three  feet  or  more,  bury  the  refuse  vines  at  tlie  foot 
of  the  stake  with  two  inches  of  dirt,  and  never  pull  or  cut 
them  off,  as  is  usually  done.  In  a  few  days  the  leaves 
will  rot,  making  manure,  and  the  vines  will  make  cheap¬ 
er  food  for  the  grubs  than  those  running  up  the  stake. 
These  vines  throw  out  small  roots,  and  help  to  make  the 
crop  for  the  year ;  besides  they  are  the  best  kind  of  sets 
for  a  new  yard  the  next  year.  Mix  air-slacked  lime  and 
unleached  ashes,  and  put  on  about  a  pint  to  each  hill ;  this 
will  help  to  keep  away  grubs,  and  serve  fls  tnanure, 


When  the  tallest  vines  are  up  two  feet  above  Ihe  tops 
of  the  slakes,  go  ilirougli  the  yard  and  lay  them  on  the 
strings,  winding  them  loosely  once  or  twice  anmn.t. 
Put  tlie  vines  on  tiie  strings,  while  they  are  growing 
very  fast,  about  twice  a  week,  or  when  they  are  ivmi  or 
three  feet  long,  letting  them  hang  clown  six  inches.  When 
the  vine  li,as  passed  the  first  space,  let  it  run  past  the 
stake,  on  to  the  string  having  fewest  vines  on  it,  and 
wiien  it  gets  to  the  middle  of  the  second  string,  let  it  lon  g 
down  like  an  arm.  Sometimes  I  have  seen  vines  slopoo  ' 
when  at  the  second  stake,  but  1  do  not  like  the  way  so 
well  as  to  let  them  run  furtlicr. 

Never  put  the  arms  upon  the  sti  ings,  but  let  llicm  hang 
down  or  wind  into  each  other ;  tliey  will  not  break  l.y 
hanging,  and  will  be  more  exposed  to  sunshine  and  air. 
When  they  are  so  long  as  to  brush  the  ground,  lay  them 
up  on  others,  winding  once  around,  and  they  will  stay. 
If  the  vines  have  been  so  planted  that  the  male  vines 
cannot  be  told,  let  tliem  run  up  on  the  strings,  but  mark 
them  in  the  fall,  so  as  to  put  in  a  tall  pole,  for,  if  grown 
in  this  way,  the  pollen  will  be  better  distributed. 

Picking.  — The  hop  is  ripe,  w  hen  on  opening  it  the  seed 
is  hard,  and  of  a  purple  color.  After  that,  they  turn 
brown,  and  the  seeds  drop  out,  and  there  is  a  great  loss 
both  in  quality  and  weight.  Of  course,  in  a  large  yard, 
all  tlie  hops  cannot  be  picked  at  exactly  the  right  lime. 
If  tiie  yard  is  a  large  one,  the  hops  will  be  ripe  sooner  in 
some  parts  of  it  than  in  otliers,  and  should  be  picked  first, 
and  indeed  some  must  be  picked  rather  too  early,  in  order 
that  none  may  be  left  much  too  long.  Commence  when 
the  seed  begins  to  get  hard,  and  but  few  are  yet  purple. 
In  horizontal  yards  tliis  is  about  a  week  earlier  than 
where  long  poles  are  used,  and  as  there  is  no  cutting  off 
vines,  they  do  not  bleed  as  in  the  old  way. 

At  first  do  not  hurry  up  the  picking  too  fast,  as  while 
the  hops  are  rather  green  the  kilns  must  not  be  filled  more 
than  ten  or  twelve  inches  deep, 
and  it  takes  longer  to  dry  them 
than  those  that  are  riper.  A  fter  a 
few  days,  when  the  hops  arc  fully 
ripe,  it  is  best  to  get  one-lialf  more 
pickers  than  at  first,  as  on  a  good 
kiln  the  hops  can  he  dried  from 
sixteen  to  twenty-four  indies 
deep,  and  two  kiins-fuU  can  be 
dried  in  a  day. 

Those  conditions  of  the  air  which 
produce  rust  in  wheat,  seem  to 
liave  the  same  effect  on  bops. 
It  sometimes  comes  on  very  soon 
after  a  warm  shower.  High  land 
is  most  free  from  rust  ;  tlie  worst 
place  is  a  deep  narrow  valley  near 
a  stream,  and  sheltered  by  woods. 

Hops  can  be  picked  from  tlie  strings,  either  in  tlie  com¬ 
mon  way  with  boxes  and  box-tenders,  or  by  girls  with 
baskets  without  help.  I  like  the  latter  way  best,  as  it 
saves  three-fourths  of  tlie  time  usually  spent  in  tending 
box,  and  Ihe  hops  are  picked  cleaner  and  faster,  I  w  ill  de¬ 
scribe  both  ways  ;  First,  with  light  willow  baskets  w  liicli 
will  hold  three  or  four  bushels,  commence  at  tlie  ripC'-t 
part  of  the  yard,  loosen  the  strings  from  the  stakes,  and  let 
them  drop  until  held  by  tlie  vines  ;  they  will  then  be  about 
five  feet  high,  and  can  be  pulled  lower  as  wanted,  A 
large  girl,  or  a  man,  can  take  the  strings  off  the  stake.s. 

Pick  clean  ;  put  the  fingers  tlirough  between  tlie  hops  in 
the  bunch,  instead  of  around  it  and  stripping,  as  is  often 
done.  Put  in  all  the  hops,  but  none  of  tlie  large  leaves, 
and  as  few  of  the  small  ones  as  possible.  Often  there  is 
no  care  t.aken  to  keep  out  small  leaves,  but  for  a  prime 
article  very  few  should  go  in,  and  no  bunches  of  more 
than  three  hops  should  ever  be  allowed  in  Ihe  basket 

The  owner,  or  some  very  careful  man,  shotild  empty 
the  baskets  into  sacks  as  they  are  filled,  and  see  that  ail 
are  picked  well.  Where  any  are  found  with  bunches  of 
hops,  or  any  large  leaves,  the  picker  should  sort  them, 
and  pick  them  all  out.  For  this  the  most  careful  man  is 
required,  and  every  careless  girl  in  the  yard  will  abuse 
him  as  much  as  she  can.  Good  pickers  will  gather  25  to 
30  bushels  per  day  well,  but  wages  should  be  based  on 
about  15  bushels  for  a  day’s  work,  as  many  girls  will  not 
pick  more  than  that. 

Sacks  for  carrying  the  hops  to  Ihe  kiln  should  hold 
about  ten  or  twelve  busliels  without  packing,  as  the  Imps, 
if  pressed  in,  will  soon  heat  and  turn  black.  The  bags 
must  never  be  left  full  of  hops  over  night.  Burlaps  make 
good  cheap  sacks,  and  once  m.ade  they  last  for  man- 
years.  The  vines  are  left  on  the  strings  so  as  to  maiuie 
the  root  for  another  crop,  until  they  are  killed  by  the  frost: 
then  it  is  best  to  lake  them  down,  strip  them  off  tlie 
strings,  and  burn  them.  In  tliis  w  ay  the  eggs  of  the  plant 
lice  are  mostly  destroyed.  Where  the  picking  is  done 
with  boxes,  these  are  made  of  various  sizes— 16,872  cubic 
inches  is  the  size  required  by  a  bill  proposed  in  the  last 
Legislature  of  New  York,  but  the  bill  did  not  pass.  The 
boxes,  usually  holding  frona  seyen  to  ten  bushels,  ar* 


Fig.  1. — HORIZONTAL  HOP  YARD. 


74 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[Maech, 


in  i'  t'  iiliiiiit  tliiee  feet  a  partition  llirongh  the 

niiihhe.  anf)  twii  nf  uiesc  itdiible  boxes,  with  a  platform 
tlifi-c  fei-t  '■■fiuare  heiweeii  tliem,  make  a  “set”  for  four 
piokers.  'I'liey  arc  of  half-inch  basswood,  v\ itli  haiulles 
at  e.udi  end.  A  inaji  (or  a  girl)  called  a  “  box-temler,” 
who  has  a  large  basket,  knife,  and  liglit  stool,  pulls  off 
the  arms  from  the  vines,  (they  break  out  easily  by  a 
pull  towards  the  root  of  the  vine,)  and  with  the  knife 
cuts  off  the  enil  of  tlie  main  vine,  which  hangs  down. 


Fig.  2, — “SET”  FOR  FOUR  PICKERS. 


As  fast  as  he  fills  his  basket,  he  empties  it  on  the  plat¬ 
form,  thus  leaving  the  main  vine  with  most  of  its  foliage 
entire,  and  preventing  any  bleeding. 

When  the  hops  are  good,  and  the  strings  not  more  than 
seven  feet  high,  one  man  can  tend  two  sets  of  pickers, 
eight  boxes,  as  easy  as  he  can  one  where  they  are  nine 
feet  higli.  Tlie  man  who  tends  box  should  never  be 
requii  ed  to  sack  the  hops.  Broken  arms  are  to  be  thrown 
aw  ay  when  the  hops  on  them  have  turned  brown  :  for  if 
put  in,  they  w  ill  injure  the  sale  of  all.  A  man  who  has 
ihe  reputation  of  picking  his  hops  clean,  and  putting  them 
2p  nii-ely,  w  ill  get  a  little  extra  price  for  them,  and  find 
flicker  sale  when  hops  are  low.  Tlie  difference  betw'een 

Fancy”  ho|)s  and  “  Common  sorts”  is  always  enough  to 
pay  tlie  whole  co.'t  of  raising  the  crop.  Only  the  best 
hops  have  the  advantage  of  a  foreign  market.  The  price 
for  picking  varies  from  20  to  50  cents  per  box.  Owners 
asuallv  lioanl  the  pickers,  and  if  they  are  treated  well,  he 
will  find  it  all  the  easier  to  engage  them  another  year. 

Dryino  the  Hops. — The  Kiln  should  be  proportioned 
to  tlie  amount  of  hops  to  be  dried.  It  is  usually  divided 
into  four  rooms.  The  stove  room,  where  fire  is  made, 
should  lie  not  less  than  14  feet  high,  and  16  or  18  feet  is 
better,  with  stone  or  brick  walls  and  no  floor;  if  the  walls 
are  of  wood,  they  must  be  plastered  to  the  top  of  the 
room.  .4t  tlie  bottom  of  the  walls  there  should  be  six 
air  holes,  one  liy  three  feet,  with  doors  to  close  them  tight 
w  hen  necessary,  and  if  the  kiln  is  very  large  there  must  be 
more  than  six.  The  stoves,  usually  two,  are  large  enough 
to  take  in  tliree-feet  wood,  with  grate  bars  at  the  bottom, 
and  very  large  doors  ;  the  pipes  are  carried  once  or  twice 
across  the  room,  as  near  the  level  of  the  top  of  the  stove 
:is  possible,  and  then  go  into  a  chimney  on  the  outside 
of  the  building.  Great  c.are  must  be  taken  not  to  have 
tlie  pipes  touch  the  wood-work,  as  it  is  kept  so  liot  for  a 
long  time,  as  to  set  fire  to  any  wood  work  near  it.  The 
pipe  is  often  run  several  feet  from  the  building  and  turned 
up  like  the  smoke-stack  of  a  steam  boiler,  to  make  a  good 
draft.  Tliere  is  a  door  from  ttie  stove  room  into  the  baling 
room,  w  ith  a  light  of  glass,  so  that  the  man  who  attends 
Ihe  drying  may  see  the  state  of  the  fires  witnout  going  in, 
and  on  the  inside  of  the  glass  is  a  Thermometer  to  show 
the  degree  of  lieat  at  a  glance. 

The  drying  room  is  over  the  stove  room  ;  nsually  there 
are  joists  laid  across  the  top  of  the  stove  room,  and 
wooden  slats,  one  inch  by  two,  are  laid  on  them  on  edge, 
two  and  a  half  inches  apart.  On  this  there  is  laid  a  car¬ 
pel — usually  made  of  flax  or  hemp  with  small  threads, 
twisted  hard  and  wooven  loosely,  so  that  the  spaces  be¬ 
tween  them  are  about  1-16  of  an  inch  or  more,  allowing  air 
to  pass  through  it  freely.  It  should  never  be  of  cotton. 

The  best  kiln  I  have  ever  seen,  is  one  which  has  a  mov¬ 
able  carpet,  invented  by  Edward  France.  Wires,  like 
telegraph  wires,  put  three  or  four  inches  apart,  are  used 
instead  of  slats,  and  no  joists  are  used,  but  the  wires  are 
stretched  tight  by  a  nut  on  the  end.  The  hops  are  put 
on  it  from  a  movable  walk  ;  a  plank  2',i  feet  above  the 
carpet,  supported  from  the  rafters  by  wire  suspension 
rods,  and  when  the  hops  are  on,  the  plank  is  turned  on 
edge.  When  the  hops  are  dry,  tlie  carpet  is  rolled  off  by 
a  sliaft  in  the  store  room,  so  that  all  the  hops  are  taken 
off  in  less  than  five  minutes,  and  the  carpet  put  back 
ready  for  a  new  charge,  without  losing  the  heat  or  let- 
ling  the  fires  go  down.  No  sweeping  is  needed  with  this 
kiln,  nor  does  any  one  step  on  the  carpet. 

The  roof  should  be  carried  up  very  high,  so  as  to  have 
the  ventilator  as  high  as  possible,  and  make  a  better  draft 
^to  the  kiln.  This  Is  made  with  a  cowd  which  turns  by 
tlie  wind,  or  a  slat  ventilator  is  used,  arr.anged  so  as  to 
keep  out  the  rain,  while  the  air  can  pass  up  freely. 

The  store  room  is  next  the  drying  room,  but  the  floor  is 
from  three  to  eight  feet  lower  than  tlie  carpet,  so  as  to 
make  plenty  of  room  to  store  hops  in  bulk  until  they  are 
1  eady  to  press.  It  should  have  but  one  window,  which 
should  have  a  shutter  to  keep  the  room  dark,  while  the 
hops  are  in  it.  They  will  turn  brown  if  exposed  to 
light.  Have  boards  to  set  up,  and  make  the  end  of  the 
store  room  farthest  from  the  drying  room  into  one  or  two 
large  bins,  so  that  any  damaged  hops  can  be  kept  separate, 


Under  the  store  room  is  the  baling  room  ;  it  has  a  tight 
floor,  and  is  used  to  bale  the  liops,  store  the  Imp  press, 
together  with  any  tools  not  in  use  in  the  yard. 

At  first  picking,  put  on  the  Imps  not  more  than  twelve 
inches  deep,  and  start  the  fires.  Use  only  dry  wood,  as 
more  heat  can  be  had  from  dry  than  green  wood,  and 
where  the  stoves  are  large,  the  fires  last  better  if  large 
wood  is  used.  Open  all  the  air  holes,  so  there  will  be  a 
good  draft  through  the  hops.  AVhen  the  fire  is  first  made, 
the  steam  passes  off  from  Ihe  hops  very  fast.  Keep  the 
temperature  as  regular  as  possible.  About  180°  or  as  near 
that  as  may  be,  with  as  good  a  current  of  air  as  you  can 
get,  will  dry  them  rapidly.  After  making  the  second  fire, 
fake  a  pan  of  coals  from  the  stov-e.  and  put  on  a  quantity 
of  sulphur.  If  the  hops  are  nice  and  free  from  rust  or 
mould,  one  pound  is  enough  for  bleaching  a  kiln,  but 
when  very  rusty,  from  two  to  five  pounds  are  sometimes 
used.  Put  the  pan  in  the  centre  of  the  room,  and  shut 
the  door — the  fire  must  be  well  made,  for  it  cannot  be 
mended  for  half  an  hour.  Wlien  litilf  the  stems  will 
break  on  bending  them,  the  hops  are  dry  enough.  This 
will  be  in  from  eight  to  ten  hours. 

In  using  the  common  kiln,  the  doors  are  thrown  open, 
the  fire  goes  down,  and  the  kiln  is  cooled  for  two  hours, 
so  that  a  man  can  go  in  to  shovel  off  the  hops,  wliich  he 
cannot  do  while  it  is  hot.  With  a  r.ake,  shovel  and  broom 
he  throws  the  hops  off  upon  the  cooling  floor  of  the  store 
room,  and  sweeps  the  carpet  off  clean.  He  must 
wear  shoes  without  nails,  or  he  will  tear  the  carpet. 

Much  of  the  flour,  or  Lupulin,  always  falls  through  into 
the  stove-room — sometimes  two  or  three  pounds  from 
each  kiln  full.  Wh. at  falls  on  the  stoves  and  pipe  must 
be  brushed  off  or  it  will  smoke  the  next  cliarge.  With 
the  France  kiln  there  is  no  sweeping  ;  the  hops  are 
taken  off  when  first  dry,  no  flour  falls  through  and  the 
hops  are  left  whole  ;  the  next  charge  of  hops  is  put  oa, 
and  the  heat  is  mostly  saved,  the  fires  not  being  allow  ed 
to  go  down  at  all.  Two  men  have  charge  of  the  drying, 
where  the  kiln  is  run  all  the  lime,  each  working  half  the 
time.  The  hops  should  be  left  on  tlie  cooling  floor,  where 
they  are  throw  n,  until  the  next  charge  is  nearly  done;  they 
are  then  shoved  back  a  little,  to  make  room  for  more, 
and  so  on  until  they  get  into  the  bins  at  tlie  end  of  the 
room,  two  or  three  charges  being  in  this  way  kept 
spread  as  much  as  possible  all  the  lime. 

When  the  hops  have  been  neglected  by  the  dryer  going 
to  sleep,  or  any  other  cause,  they  become  too  dry,  which 
is  known  by  their  feeling  harsh,  and  most  of  the  stems 
snapping.  Shut  the  air  holes,  put  a  quart  or  a  little 
more  of  salt  upon  a  pan  of  coals  in  the  stove  room,  and 
let  the  charge  stand  a  short  time— this  will  toughen  them. 

It  is  best  to  have  pickers  enoiigli  to  keep  the  kiln  run¬ 
ning  all  the  time.  Be  careful  to  get  hops  dry  enough. 

Baling  and  Pressing. — The  baling  should  be  done  in 
from  four  to  six  weeks ;  we  usually  take  a  rainy  time 
when  nothing  else  can  be  done,  as  then  hops  handle  best. 

The  Harris  Press  is  the  best  I  have  ever  seen  for  bal¬ 
ing  hops— it  is  made  by  Seneca  Gilford,  Waterville, 
Oneida  Co.,  New  York.  It  is  cheap  and  good— costing 
now  but  fifty  dollars.  Baling  cloth  is  made  on  purpose 
for  hops.  A  good  quality  should  weigh  about  one  and 
one  half  pounds  per  yard.  Nevei  use  Gunny-clolh  nor 
Burlaps.  Twine  for  sewing  should  be  small,  strong  and 
free  from  bunches. so  as  to  sew  easily;  the  needles  used  are 
common  bent  sail  needles.  A  dozen  pointed  iron  skewers 
are  wanted  to  hold  the  cloth  while  sewing — use  tallow 
instead  of  wax  upon  the  thread,  so  that  it  will  slip  easily. 

Cut  the  sacking  for  the  bottom  piece  one  yard  longer 
than  the  bottom  of  the  press,  and  the  upper  one  six  inches 
shorter ;  save  one  piece  of  each  kind  until  the  last  bale, 
for  a  measure,  so  as  to  have  them  all  uniform.  When  a 
nice  hop  is  grown,  it  should  be  kept  as  whole  as  possible. 
Have  side  boards  to  fit  in  from  the  top  of  the  press  to  a 
trap  door  in  the  floor  of  the  store  room,  and  a  wooden 
box  there  of  the  same  size  to  shovel  them  into.  Tlie 
side  boards  to  come  out  when  the  hops  are  below'  them. 
Take  care  to  fill  the  comers  of  the  bale  full,  so  as  to  make 
a  square  handsome  package.  Bales  are  all  the  same  size, 
weighing  from  150  to  240  pounds,  according  to  the  de¬ 
gree  they  are  pressed  and  how  well  seeded  they  are. 
The  baled  hops,  if  kept  stored  long,  must  be  in  a 
dry  room  set  on  end,  and  a  few  inches  apart,  so  that 
the  air  can  circulate  between  them. 

Selling. — When  hops  are  high,  almost  any  will  sell, 
but  when  they  are  low  only  the  best  sell  readily.  At  two 
years  old  they  are  worth  but  half  price,  and  are  worthless 
at  four  or  five  years.  Always  sell  the  first  year. 
By  keeping  the  run  of  the  market,  both  in  this  country 
and  Europe,  the  grower  can  form  an  intelligent  opinion 
of  what  the  price  should  be.  It  varies  from  eight  cents, 
at  the  lowest,  up  to  fifty  or  sixty  cents,  as  at  present,  for 
very  fine  qualities,  but  the  average  for  the  last  40  years 
has  been  17  to  18  cents.  The  cost  of  raising  in  the  man¬ 
ner  described  is  from  4  to  6  cents  per  pound.  The 
average  crop  all  through  the  country  is  near  1000  pounds 
per  acre  (when  the  work  is  well  done),  but  I  have  seen 
2500  pounds  per  acre  raised  on  a  large  yard.  On  two 


large  yards  in  Morris,  Otsego  Co..  N.  Y.,  the  average  for 
four  years  past  has  been  1700  on  one.  and  1800  on  Ihe 
other,  both  being  trained  on  strings. 

Insects. — For  two -years  past,  the  hop  crop  has  been 
very  much  injured,  even  mined  in  some  jdaccs.  in  New 
York,  by  the  Hop  Louse.  This  comes  early  in  July,  and 
unless  prevented,  it  increases  until  it  ruins  the  crop. 
I  insert  from  Harris’  “  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation  ' 
a  part  of  the  description  :  —  “  The  winged  plant  lice  )iro- 
vide  for  a  succession  of  their  race  by  stocking  the  phant 
with  eggs  in  Die  autumn  ;  these  are  hatched  in  due  time 
in  the  spring,  and  the  young  lice  immediately  bevin  In 
pump  tip  sap  from  the  tender  leaves  and  slioots,  increase 
in  size  and  in  short  time  come  to  matin ity  .  in  tins  slate 
it  is  found  that  the  brood  witliout  a  single  exception  are 
females,  which  are  wingless,  but  are  in  a  condition  to 
continue  their  kind  immediately.  Their  young  Iiowevci 
are  not  hatched  from  eggs,  but  are  produced  alive  ;  ana 
each  female  may  be  the  motlier  of  1-5  or  20  young  lice  in 
a  single  day.  The  p!;int  lice  of  this  second  generation 
are  also  wingless  females,  whieli  grow  tip  and  have  their 
young  in  due  season— ;ird  thus  brood  after  brood  is  pro¬ 
duced  even  to  the  seventh  generation  or  more  witlioul 
the  appearance  or  intervention  of  a  single  male  through 
the  whole  season.  This  extraordinary  kind  of  pro¬ 
pagation  ends  in  the  autumn  witli  tlie  birth  of  a  brood  of 
males  and  females,  which  in  due  time  acquire  wines  and 
pair.  Eggs  are  then  laii!  by  the  females  and  with  the 
death  of  these  winged  individuals,  which  soon  follows, 
the  species  becomes  extinct  for  the  season.” 

The  bark  of  poles,  and  any  oid  rubbish,  vines  etc.,  in 
the  hop  yard,  will  be  covered  with  the  eggs  of  these  plant 
lice.  When  sawed  stakes  are  ii.seil  and  coaled  with  gas 
tar,  not  an  egg  will  be  laid  on  them.  The  old  vines  should 
always  be  burned  up  in  the  fall. 

The  enemie.s  of  the  louse  are  the  Lady  bug  (Coccinclla) 
wliil^n  the  larva  state.  It  is  a  small -flattened  grub,  of 
a  bluWi  color,  usually  spoiled  with  red  or  yellow,  and 
has  six  legs  near  Ihe  fore  part  of  the  body  ;  “  tiiey  are 
hatched  from  yellow  eggs  laid  among  the  lice  in  clus¬ 
ters”.  Another  is  the  grub  of  a  “golden-eyed  lace  winged 
fly”  ;  “  it  is  a  long  slender  grub  with  a  pair  of  large, 
curved,  sharp  teeth”.  Harris  says  it  w  ill  kilt  one  louse  a 
minute- “  its  eggs  are  on  short  hairs  among  the  lice”. 
“  Small  two  wingel  flies,  black,  with  yellow  ti.mds,  lay 
their  eggs  among  the  lice— they  make  maggots  which 
destroy  large  numbers.” 

By  taking  care  lo  save  w  hat  are  found  of  these,  I  think 
the  lice  will  be  kept  down  so  as  not  to  ruin  yards  as  is 
done  in  some  cases  now.  Every  Imp  grower  sliould  have 
Harris’  book.  The  insects  which  prey  on  his  crops  are  de¬ 
scribed  there, with  some  hints  low  arils  their  extermination. 
Ants  should  be  kept  out  of  the  yard  as  much  as  pos¬ 
sible  ;  they  are  said  to  take  care  of  the  lice,  while  they 
are  few,  and  tran.'port  them  lo  vines  where  there  are 
none.  Drive  away  by  coal  oil  or  gas  tar  put  on  their  hills. 
After  the  first  year.  Lady-bugs  and  otlier  enemies  of  I  he  lice 
increase  so  much  as  to  save  the  yard  from  much  damage. 
There  are  several  Caterpillars  which  live  on  the  hop 
vines,  but  I  have  never  seen  them  plenty  enough  to  do 
mnch.damage,  except  the  one  which  lives  in  the  ground 
and  eats  the  roots  and  the  vine  near  Ihe  surface. 

If  the  grower  examines  the  h,op  yard  closely,  he  will 
soon  learn  lo  tell  his  enemies  from  his  friends.  Crows 
and  other  birds  are  of  great  use  in  eating  beetles  and 
grubs,  and  snakes  also  devour  laroe  numbers  of  tliem. 
Last  spring,  I  found  more  than  half  the  iiills  in  our  yard 
dug  into  by  skunks,  searching  for  the  grubs,  and  where 
they  had  been  I  couhl  find  no  grubs.  The  little  harm 
they  do  in  sucking  eggs,  is  far  more  titan  made  up  by  ttieir 
work.  A  family  of  skunks  will  do  as  much  towards  tak¬ 
ing  out  grubs,  if  you  will  protect  them  from  the  dogs,  as 
a  man  can  do.  They  work  in  tlie  night. 

Bam  swallows  were  on  our  yard  la-it  summer  all  the 
time  and  appeared  to  live  Iheie,  going  only  from  the 
barn  to  the  yard,  wliere  they  got  their  whole  living. 

Manuring.— Every  fall  the  yar.l  should  have  two  fork¬ 
fuls  of  coarse  manure  on  top  of  the  hills,  partly  as  a  pro¬ 
tection  lo  the  vine,  and  from  Ihe  first  lo  the  middle  of  July 
it  should  have  as  much,  or,  if  Ihe  ground  is  poor,  more 
well  rotted  fine  manure,  which  has  been  fermented 
enough  to  kill  any  seeds  w  hich  were  in  it.  This  should 
be  put  on,  and  covered  immediately  with  an  inch  or  two 
of  dirt— ashes  are  often  mixed  with  the  manure,  but  I 
prefer  using  them  with  lime  on  the  surface  of  the  ground. 

I  have  seen  plaster  used  with  good  effect.  Old  bones  are 
good  to  bury  in  the  yard,  where  any  amount  of  them  can 
be  had.  So  also  are  the  sweepings  of  black.«milhs’  shops. 
In  this  country  hops  are  now  mostly  raised  in  Central 
New  York,  some  in  New  England,  and  a  few  in  the 
Western  States.  I  have  seen  them  growing  wild  in 
Iowa,  Missouri,  and  Kansas  fully  as  fine  as  the  cultivated 
ones ;  they-  grow  wild  on  all  creek  bottoms,  where  the 
soil  is  not  overflowed  in  the  winter,  and  where  they  me 
not  killed  by  fire,  producing  best  in  those  bottoms  formed 
by  the  wash  of  limestone  hills.  The  few  yards  in  Iowa  and 
Wisconsin  produce  large  crops  of  Ihe  best  quality  of  hops. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST. 


76 


American  Merino  Sheep. 


The  engraving  herewith  presented  is  a  por¬ 
trait  of  a  pair  of  ewes,  bred  and  owned  by  Mr. 
George  Campbell,  of  Westminster,  Vt., — the 
breeder  who  gained  for  American  Merinos  so 
much  credit  at  the  Hamburgh  World’s  Fair,  in 
1863.  Twelve  of  his  sheep,  competing  with 
the  best  flocks  of  Europe,  took  two  first  prizes, 
for  length  of  staple  and  weight  of  fleece,  not- 
witlistanding  the  number  of  entries  in  the  Mer¬ 
ino  class  was  013.  This  breed  of  sheep,  then  for 
the  first  time  brought  prominently  before  the 
public,  have  very  rapidly  risen  in  favor,  and  the 
American  Merinos,  especially  as  bred  in  Ver¬ 
mont,  are  greatly  sought  for  to  improve  flocks 
of  fine  wool  sheep  all  over  the  world.  Among 
the  older  and  most  noted  breeders  are  Mr.  Ham¬ 
mond,  Mr.  Sanford,  the  Messrs.  Cutting,  Mr. 
Wright,  Mr.  Saxton,  and  others,  in  the  Western 
portion  of  the  State,  and  in  the  Eastern  part, 
Messrs.  Campbell,  Cushing,  Bridge,  Perkins, 
Fuller,  and  others — the  great  pioneers  in  the  im¬ 
provement  of  the  original  Spanish  Merino. 
These  flocks  princi pall}' originated  from  the  ear¬ 
ly  importations  of  Col.  David  Humphreys,  of 
Connecticut.  Mr.  Hammond  and  others,  in  Ad¬ 
dison  Co.,  made  their  purchases  of  the  Hum¬ 
phrey’s  stock  of  Mr.  Stephen  Atwood,  of  Con¬ 
necticut,  principally  in  the  years  1844  to  1846. 

These  sheep  have  been  so  much  improved, 
by  Vermont  breeders  chiefly,  that  at  a  late 
meeting,  held  at  White  River  Junction,  for 
the  purpose  of  forming  a  New-England  Wool- 
Growers’  Association,  it  was  thought  proper  to 
give  them  the  name  Improved  American  Meri¬ 
nos,  in  jilace  of  Spanish  Merinos.  This  Con¬ 
vention  passed  the  following  resolution : 

'■'■Resolved — ,  That  in  consideration  of  the  great 
advance  which  has  been  made  in  the  breeding 
of  Merino  sheep,  in  the  United  States,  since 
their  first  introduction  here,  we  hereby  agree 
to  adopt  the  name  of  Improved  American 
jSlerinos,  as  most  appropriate  to  the  thorough¬ 
bred  Spanish  Merino  sheep  of  these  States,  and 
we  recommend  that  this  name  be  adopted  by 
agricultural  societies  in  offering  preuuums.” 


The  improvements  are  in  their  form,  constitu¬ 
tion,  and  fleece.  Formerly  the  wool  on  their 
bellies  was  short  and  thin,  and  there  was  scarcely 
any  on  their  legs.  At  the  present  day,  they  are 
much  stronger  made,  of  better  form  and  pro¬ 
portions,  and  are  thickly  covered  with  wool 
down  to  their  feet.  There  is  one  disadvantage 
in  having  the  sheep  so  thoroughly  clothed  on 
every  part  with  wool,  viz.,  that  before  dropping 
their  lambs  it  is  necessary  for  the  shepherd  to 
cut  away  the  wool  from  the  udder,  so  that  the 
lamb  may  be  able  to  find  the  teats.  If  the  wool 
is  left  on,  and  the  lamb  left  to  take  care  of  itself, 
in  many  instances  it  would  perish.  These  cir¬ 
cumstances  would  not  be  as  liable  to  occni-  in 
summer  as  in  winter,  for  the  reason  that  nature 
has  provided  a  remedy.  After  the  sheep  go  to 
grass,  the  greater  flow  of  milk,  with  the  warm 
weather,  causes  a  little  feverishness  in  the  bag, 
and  the  wool  starts  off,  leaving  the  teats  free. 


March  and  April  Lambs. 

In  order  to  raise  lambs  as  early  as  March  and 
April,  the  ewes  should  be  in  good  condition. 
To  have  the  lambs  dropped  strong  and  healthy, 
the  ewes  should  have  had  plenty’  of  gentle 
exercise.  To  make  them  grow,  good  eai-ly  cut 
hay  should  be  provided, — clover  is  best  for  milk. 
For  grain,  feed  oats,  shorts,  and  oil-meal,  and,  if 
possible,  provide  plenty  of  roots,  of  which  beets 
are  best.  A  warm  barn  or  shed  is  of  importance, 
for  no  prudent  man  wilt  attempt  to  have  early 
lambs  without  a  comfortable  place  for  them. 

A  few  small  pens,  sufficiently  large  for  one 
sheep  and  lamb,  say  3i  by  3  feet,  ought  to  be 
provided,  and  as  soon  as  the  lamb  is  dropped  it 
should  be  put,  with  its  dam,  into  one  of  these 
pens.  If  the  wool  has  not  already  been  cut 
away  from  the  teats,  this  must  be  done  at  once, 
if  necessary,  and  the  shepherd  should  see  that 
the  lamb  sucks.  After  remaining  separate  from 
the  flock  for  a  day  or  two,  if  the  lambs  become 
strong  and  suck  well,  they  can  be  taken  out 
and  put  with  the  flock  of  ewes  with  young 
lambs,  leaving  the  pens  for  younger  ones.  It  is 
not  well  to  allow  ewes  with  lambs  to  run  with 


those  that  have  not  lambed. — To  make  the  small 
pens,  take  sound  boards  and  match  them  to¬ 
gether,  so  as  to  make  the  pen  2  feet  8  inches  high 
7  feet  long,  and  3  j  wide.  Make  a  little  feed  rack, 

1  foot  wide  and  3j  long,  and  set  in  the  center, 
and  you  have  two  good  pens  3  feet  liy  31  each. 
If  the  weather  is  unusually  cold,  make  a  cover 
to  these  pens  and  cover  them  over  when  you 
have  fi'esh  lambs, — they  need  no  bottom. 

After  the  lambs  are  three  weeks  old,  they 
should  be  separated  from  their  dams  a  part  of 
the  time.  This  prevents  the  lambs  from  learn¬ 
ing  to  cat  wool  from  the  sides  and  legs  of  the 
sheep,  as  they  frequently  do  when  left  to  them¬ 
selves.  Another  advantage  in  separating  them 
is,  that  they  can  be  fed  with  a  little  grain  and 
roots  and  a  few  choice  locks  of  hay,  all  of 
which  they  will  soon  learn  to  cat.  The  ewes 
will  also  do  better  when  the  lambs  are  kejit 
away  from  them  a  portion  of  the  time  each  day. 

To  separate  them,  let  the  shepherd  stand  in 
the  doorway,  with  the  door  open  just  enough 
to  let  one  sheep  pass  out  at  a  time;  a  boy  going 
behind  the  sheep  drives  them  out  while  the 
shepherd  keeps  the  lambs  back.  If  the  sheep 
are  well  trained,  they  will  readily  pass  out,  and 
the  Iambs  will  learn  to  stay  back.  If  they  have 
not  been  handled  much,  and  are  inclined  to  be 
timid,  be  gentle  with  them,  and  in  a  short  time 
they  will  learn  their  duty.  Good  lambs  can  bC' 
raised  at  any  time  in  winter,  by  the  above  plan.> 

Look  Out  Early. 

Several  indications  point  to  a  pretty  large 
demand  for  implements,  seeds,  trees,  etc.,  the 
coming  spring  and  summer.  Money  is  more 
abundant  than  labor ;  labor  is  high,  and  imjde- 
ments  have  not  advanced  in  price  so  much  as 
farm  products.  Any  thing  that  will  help  out 
work,  and  increase  the  products  of  the  soil,'  will 
be  eagerly  secured  by  sensible  farmers.  Tlierj 
is  a  possibility,  rather  a  probability,  that  con¬ 
siderable  portions  of  some  Southern  States  may¬ 
be  sending  for  implements  which  they  formerly 
procured  mainly  from  the  north.  So  there  is 
danger  of  a  short  supply.  The  suggestion  we 


76 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


fSlAUCH, 


would  offer  is,  UkU  enlerprising  men  (and  our 
readers  are  all  of  this  kind,  of  course),  should 
be  on  the  lookout  early.  This  month  they  can 
cast  about,  discuss  with  their  neighbors  the 
utility  and  value  of  different  implements  and 
kinds  of  seeds,  correspond  with  dealers  and 
manufacturers,  and  examine  their  advertise¬ 
ments,  catalogues,  and  circulars,  which  are  usu¬ 
ally  furnished  free,  for  a  stamp  or  two,  and  in 
this  way  get  read}'  to  order  early.  The  last 
pages  of  this  paper  probably  offer  the  most 
complete  Directory  to  a  class  of  good  dealers 
that  can  be  anywhere  found. 

Reclaiming  Bog  Land. 


A  correspondent  of  the  Agriculturist,  writes 
over  the  signature  of  “  Hermon,”  communicat¬ 
ing  the  following  practical  hints,  and  promis¬ 
ing  more  on  the  subsequent  treatment  of  the 
reclaimed  bog  land. 

“  Reclaiming  swamp  lands  is  of  importance 
at  all  times,  but  especially  so,  when  the  price  of 
hay  is  such,  as  to  render  the  undertaking  doubly 
remunerative,  especially  as  the  immigration  of 
foreign  laborers  is  greater  now  than  usual,  and 
they  can  be  emplojmd  by  the  month,  to  perform 
the  work,  and  also  be  at  hand,  when  harvest 
or  other  business  requires  a  full  force  of  hands. 

I  propose  to  give  my.  experience  during  a  few 
years  past,  that  others  may  try  what  has  been  a 
benefit  to  me,  and  to  caution  them  to  avoid 
errors  that  I  have  fallen  into.  During  the  winter 
is  the  time  to  make  arrangements,  engage  help, 
survey  the  swamp  to  find  the  full  descent,  de¬ 
termine  the  number  and  location  of  the  principal 
ditches,  and  have  tools  and  every  thing  in  readi¬ 
ness,  so  that  no  time  need  be  lost  after  the 
weather  becomes  fit  to  commence  operations. 
The  prime  requisite  is  a  main  ditch  of  sufficient 
depth  with  a  slight  and  uniform  foil,  to  secure 
which,  it  is  often  necessary  to  begin  the  outlet 
ditch  many  rods  from  the  lower  part  of  the  land 
to  be  drained.  Hence  the  propriety  of  having 
a  competent  man  to  determine  the  actual  descent 
in  the  land  to  be  dug  across,  in  order  to  find 
at  what  distance  it  will  be  requisite  to  com¬ 
mence,  to  obtain  the  desirable  depth  and  fall. 

Cutting  the  main  ditch  is  the  first  business  to 
be  done,  that  tlie  swamp  may  become  dry 
enough  to  admit  of  cutting  and  burning  the 
bogs  before  the  season  is  far  advanced.  Do  not 
be  afraid  to  dig  the  outlet  deep  enough  and  wide 
enough; ^better  begin  a  little  farther  off  than 
appears  right,  thereby  securing  an  extra  depth 
to  compensate  for  the  settling  of  the  land,  as  it 
parts  with  its  water  and  becomes  more  firm  and 
solid.  The  ditch  should  not  be  less  than  four 
feet  deep,  and  if  the  swamp  is  large,  five  would 
Ije  better ;  for  the  water  should  have  greater  fall 
in  ditche-s,  especially  in  blind  ones,  than  the 
general  surface  of  a  swamp  presents,  so  that 
when  the  drains  are  dug  to  their  termini,  they 
will  be  a  little  more  than  three  feet  deep, 
shallower  than  which,  no  blind  ditch  ought  to 
be,  if  a  greater  depth  can  be  obtained.  None 
of  the  earth  thrown  out  of  the  main  ditch  should 
be  left  to  press  upon  the  banks,  making  them 
more  liable  to  fall  in,  but  should  as  soon  as 
practicable  be  moved  back  with  a  team  and 
scraper,  spreading  evenly  as  possible,  for  the 
earth  and  marl  from  the  bottom  frequently 
form  a  valuable  amendment  to  the  surface  soil. 
In  scraping,  try  to  improve  the  shape  of  the 
rianks  bj’’  rounding  off  the  edges ;  this  removes 
a  part  soon  acted  upon  by  the  frost  and  thrown 
into  the  ditch,  adapts  the  surfiice  better  to  the 
scythe,  and  gives  it  a  finished  appearance. 


All  ditches  to  remain  open  should  be  dug 
Avith  very  slanting  banks ;  but  those  to  be  filled 
should  be  dug  square  down,  which  involves  less 
labor.  In  some  places  tiles  are  used  to  form  a 
passage  for  the  rvater  [and  are  generally  to  be 
recommended,  ed.],  but  when  small  stones  are 
abundant,  it  is  customary  to  use  them,  thereby 
clearing  them  from  the  surface  of  neighboring 
fields.  When  stones  are  used,  they  should  be 
put  in  so  carefully,  as  not  to  break  or  jar  down 
fragments  of  the  banks.  Always  begin  to  fill  in 
stones  at  the  highest  point,  that  is  the  upper  end 
of  the  ditch,  and  never  allow  one  larger  than 
one’s  fist  to  be  within  a  foot  and  a  half  of  the 
bottom ;  some  use  a  sledge  to  break  any  that 
are  too  large,  throwing  in  the  pieces.  Two  feet 
is  a  suitable  depth  to  fill  with  stone,  and  the 
best  possible  covering  for  them  is  the  small  bogs 
and  wild  sods  of  the  swamp.  These,  stamped 
down,  will  keep  the  dirt  in  place  and  not  be 
touched  by  the  plow  Avhen  breaking  up  ground. 

If  help  enough  has  been  employed,  the  bogs 
should  be  all  cut  and  burned,  except  those  need¬ 
ed  for  ditches,  and  much  of  the  ground  plowed 
by  the  time  -the  blind  drains  are  completed, 
Avhich  should  be  in  time  to  sow  buckwheat,  and 
before  you  need  the  hands  in  the  hayfield.” 

The  White  Willow. 


The  season  of  the  year  approaches  when 
willow  cuttings  are  best  set.  The  AVhite  Wil¬ 
low  should  not  be  indiscriminately  recommend¬ 
ed  for  all  soils,  nor  at  all  for  hedges,  properly  so 
called.  Its  chief  value,  no'  doubt,  is  upon-  the 
moist,  rich,  naked  prairies,  where  for  shade,  wind¬ 
breaks,  and  wood,  its  rapid,  clean  growth  Avill 
commend  it ;  sometimes,  also,  it  will  be  found 
useful  for  these  purposes  where  timber  abounds. 
On  loAV,  moist  grounds,  common  hedge  frlants 
usually  fail,  and  ordinary  fences  are  often  liable 
to  be  washed  away,  while  the  willow  will  thrive 
and  may  be  so  set  as  to  form,  in  a  few  years,  a 
permanent,  living  tree  fence,  which  will  turn 
cattle,  stop  ice  and  drift  wmod,  and  make  itself 
generally  useful.  The  Yellow,  or  “Golden” 
Willow,  will  grow  equally  well,  but  it  is  less 
hardy,  not  so  erect  in  its  habit  of  growth,  nor 
so  useful  for  timber — that  is,  for  fencing  stuff, 
etc.  The  White  is  more  highly  esteemed  also 
for  basket  making,  though  inferior  to  the  Osier 
Willow  in  this  respect.  It  is  for  the  onen  prai¬ 
rie  country  of  the  West  that  its  good  qualities 
are  most  apparent,  and  our  views,  in  regard  to 
the  value  of  the  White  Willow,  for  live  fence, 
soft  timber,  wind-breaks,  etc.,  as  expressed  more 
than  a  year  ago,  have  only  been  confirmed  as 
testimony  has  accumulated.  There  has  been 
much  disappointment,  it  is  true,  among  those 
who  have  bought  the  cuttings  and  set  them  out 
for  hedges  or  live  fences.  Too  many  small  cut¬ 
tings  have  been  planted,  and  not  unfrequently 
frauds  have  been  practised,  and  cuttings  of 
other  sorts  furnished  for  the  White  Willow ; 
but  the  great  cause  of  disappointment  has  been 
poor  preparation  of  the  ground  before  planting, 
with  poor  care  afterwards.  This,  in  connection 
with  the  dry  springs  and  summers  we  have  had, 
was  enough  to  ruin  the  prospects  of  many  plan¬ 
tations  which  might  have  done  tolerably  well  if 
they  had  had  to  contend  Avith  either  neglect  or 
drouth  singly.  So  far  as  Ave  have  been  able  to 
ascertain,  no  fence  AV’ell  planted  and  attended 
has  failed  to  ansAver  reasonable  expectations,  if 
on  soil  adapted  to  the  White  WilloAA'. 

Good  strong  cuttings,  of  a  foot  long,  ought  to 
be  secured,  and  the  ground  should  be  plowed  at 
least  four  feet  Avide,  turning  the  furrows  together. 


We  Avould  use  a  double  ploAv,  and  put  it  down 
10  inches, — and  it  Avould  be  all  the  better  to 
run  a  sub-soil  pIoAV  10  inches  deeper  through 
the  center  furroAV.  Tlie  cuttings  being  set  as 
early  as  the  ground  can  be  Avorked,  and  cared 
for  as  Avell  as  a  roAV  of  beans,  the  weeds  being 
kept  doAvn,  and  the  ground  open  and  loose,  we 
should  expect  very  foAv  to  miss,  and  fcAV  not  to 
make  a  good  growth.  Our  recommendation  for 
the  willow  is  only  for  locations  and  uses  to 
Avhich  it  is  especially  adapted.  For  our  views 
in  regard  to  other  trees,  and  the  great  import¬ 
ance  of  groAving  some  kind  of  timber  on  the 
prairies,  Ave  refer  to  an  article  on  page  86. 

- ^--4 - *  P - 

Side  Hill  or  Horizontal  Wells. 

The  title  is  strange,  and  the  idea  doubtless  a 
novel  one  to  nrost  of  the  readers  of  the  Agri¬ 
culturist.  It  is  well  Avorthy  their  consideration. 
Mr.  W.  H.  Gardner,  of  Muskegon  Co.,  Mich., 
thus  Avrites :  “  One  Avould  think  from  the  in¬ 
variable  rule  of  digging  down  for  Avater,  that  it 
could  be  found  in  no  other  direction.  In  many 
localities  it  may  as  readily  be  found  by  digging 
up,  as  doAvn,  and  the  labor  of  draAving  Avater 
ever  afteiuvards  saved,  as  well  as  much  of  the 
labor  of  digging  the  Avell.  We  have  seen  many 
wells  in  the  States  of  New  York,  Wisconsin, 
Michigan  etc.,  Avhich  could  have  been  started 
horizontally  into  the  hill-side,  and  reached  Avater 
wuthin  but  little  greater  distance  horizontally, 
than  Avas  dug  down  into  the  earth  perpendicul- 
arily  to  find  it.  A  horizontal  well  has  the  fol- 
loAving  advantages :  It  can  be  dug  at  any  time, 
or  season ;  the  earth  can  all  be  taken  out  in  a 
barroAA',  hoAvever  far  horizontally  the  “level” 
is  driven ;  a  great  saving  of  labor  and  time  ;  by 
keeping  a  gentle  ascent  from  the  opening,  the 
water  Avill  draw  itself,  running  out  as  from  a 
natural  spring  ;  they  are  more  easily  stoned,  less 
dangerous,  and  can  be  deepened  at  any  time. 
The  question*  which  first  suggests  itself  is ; 
where  can  such  a  Avell  be  dug? — We  ansAA’er: 
anyAvhere,  at  the  foot  of  a  hill  of  forty  or  more 
feet  in  hight,  or  on  the  side  of  a  hill.  In  sink¬ 
ing  shafts  in  mining,  or  digging  railroad  tunnels, 
Avater  is  very  readily  and  almost  uniformly 
found,  digging  horizontally,  and  often  in  great 
abundance — the  horizontal  shaft  cutting  off  more 
of  the  veins  of  water  percolating  through  the 
earth,  than  a  perpendicular  one  Avould.”  It  is  a 
matter  of  common  experience  Avhere  extensive 
draining  operations  are  carried  out,  that  living 
springs  are  cut  so  that  water  floAvs  perpetually 
from  the  drain.  When  no  such  permanent 
sources  of  Avater  are  encountered,  the  floAV  from 
drains  may  be  made  to  supply  all  the  needs  of 
a  family  and  stock  yard,  excejAt  for  a  fcAv  months 
in  the  heat  of  summer. 


What  of  the  Ailanthus  Silk-Worm  ? 


A  few  years  since  much  intei'est  was  excited 
in  France,  by  the  introduction  of  a  new  silk¬ 
worm  {Saturnia  Cynthia),  obtained  froiiA  China, 
which  fed  upon  the  Ailanthus,  and  produced  a 
coarse  but  strong  silk.  The  insect  Avas  figured 
and  described  in  the  American  Agriculturist,  Vol. 
XX.,  page  81.  A  few  parties  in  this  countiy 
experimented  with  the  insect,  and  it  was  hoped 
that  their  efforts  would  be  successful.  Such, 
however,  appears  not  to  have  been  the  case,  a? 
Avill  be  seen  by  the  folloAving  communication 
from  Rev.  Jno.  G.  Morris,  D.D.,  Librarian  of 
Peabody  Institute,  Baltimore : 

Bear  Sir:  In  ansAver  to  yours  of  the  19th,  I 
Avould  state  that  I  now  believe  the  cultivation  of 


18G5. 


AMERICAN  AGhRIGULTURIST. 


77 


the  Ailantlius  Silk-wonii  can  not  be  successfully 
pursued  in  this  countiy.  I  have  tried  the  ex- 
Ijeriineiit  for  three  or  four  consecutive  years, 
and,  to  my  chagrin,  discovered  tliat  the  worm 
degenerates;  that  multitudes  perish  without 
any  assignable  cause, — that  they  do  not  copulate 
freely,  and  thus  thousands  of  unimpregnated 
eggs  are  laid.  I  do  not  know  why  it  is,  con¬ 
sidering  that  our  climate  and  that  of  China  are 
so  similar,  but  I  have  abandoned  the  work  in 
despair,  and,  indeed,  I  believe  that  the  whole 
race  is  extinct  in  this  country.  Guerin  de 
Meneville’s  experience  in  France  is  precisely  the 
same.  I  have  a  letter  from  him  stating  that, 
M’hilst  for  the  first  few  years,  the  worm  thrived 
in  Paris,  and  a  gi'eat  deal  of  Frenchy  fuss  was 
made  about  it,  companies  established,  and  whole 
plantations  of  Ailanthus  laid  out,  yet  that  the 
whole  affair. is  “a  failure,”  and  he  could  not 
supply  even  a  few  eggs  and  cocoons.  And  yet, 
I  should  like  to  see  some  one  else  undertake  it, 
and  probably,  b}’'  proper  application  at  the 
Jardin  des  Plantes,  in  Paris,  a  few  cocoons 
might  be  procured.  As  for  myself,  I  have  en¬ 
tirely  given  it  up,  and  think  that  a  good,  sub¬ 
stantial,  though  not  as  glossy  and  fine  a  silk, 
can,  without  any  trouble,  be  raised  from  two  of 
our  native  moths,  viz.,  Attdcus  Cecropia  and  A. 
'Polyphemus. 


Milk.-Lab0r.-Beef.  • . .  .III. 


The  profits  of  raising  neat  cattle  depend  upon 
their  many  different  products,  which  alike  influ¬ 
ence  the  modes  of  farming,  and  are  reciprocally 
influenced  by  them,  as  well  as  by  soil,  climate, 
market,  etc.  The  title  of  these  articles  does  not, 
by  any  means,  express  all  the  sources  of  profit, 
but  only  imperfectly  classifies  them.  Under 
milk  are  included  all  dairy  products,  even 
whey-fed  pork  and  chickens;  and  under  beef, 
of  course,  veal  and  hides,  tallow,  etc.,  etc.,  which 
all  beef  cattle,  sooner  or  later,  come  to.  In  con¬ 
nection  with  all  stall-fed  or  stabled  animals, 
another  product  not  included  in  our  enumera¬ 
tion,  ought  to  be  considered,  viz.,  manure — that 
product  without  which,  in  many  parts  of  this 
country,  and  still  more  in  Europe,  it  is  impos¬ 
sible  to  realize  any  profit  from  keeping  cattle. 
This  most  unportant  problem  is  therefore  pre¬ 
sented  to  the  farmer,  in  connection  with  what¬ 
ever  object  he  feeds  cattle  for; — to  secure  the 
largest  quantity  of  manure,  and  of  the  best 
quality,  consistent  with  the  amount  of  labor 
he  can  afford  to  lay  out  for  this  purpose. 

In  Some  parts  of  South  America,  and  per¬ 
haps  still  in  California,  cattle  are  herded  and 
cared  for,  for  the  sake  of  their  hides  alone,  or  for 
their  hides  and  tallow.  In  Texas,  their  beef 
has  value  also,  and  so  throughout  the  prairie 
States,  at  present,  cattle  are  raised  for  beef— in 
some  districts,  the  chief  business  of  most  of  the 
firrmers  being  to  raise  young  cattle,  which  are 
sold  to  others,  who  fatten  them  for  market. 

Here  it  is  that  some  of  the  steers  must  bear 
the  yoke,  and  cattle  are  worked  two  or  three 
years,  or  until  their  sale  is  likely  to  be  too  much 
affected,  when  they  ai'e  put  off  to  the  feeder. 
As  we  approach  the  longer  settled  States,  or 
come  into  the  neighborhood  of  large  cities,  the 
demand  for  milk,  and  the  improved  modes  of 
farming,  which  render  it  possible  to  make  butter 
and  cheese  with  profit,  lead  farmers  to  value 
the  dairy  qualities  of  cows  in  proportion,  while 
the  feeding  and  fattening  qualities  of  the  differ¬ 
ent  breeds  are  not  less  prized  than  elsewhere, 
nor  is  the  fitness  of  the  males  for  the  yoke 
everlooked  even  in  such  districts. 


There  are  two  classes  of  working  oxen, 
namely,  those  required  and  adapted  to  draw 
heavy  loads,  at  a  slow  pace,  and  those  of  an 
active,  sanguine  nature,  quick  walkers,  and 
fitted  to  draw  moderate  loads,  at  a  brisk  pace, 
and  to  throw  themselves  with  great  vigor  into 
their  w’ork.  Between  the  two  extremes  there  is 
every  variety  of  course.  As  a  type  of  the 
slow,  pow'erful  ox-team,  we  have  the  short¬ 
horns,  or  rather  grade  short-horns, — cattle  of 
magnificent  proportions,  getting  their  full 
growth  and  perfection  at  about  5  to  6  years 
old,  weighing  from  3,000  to  4,000  pounds  per 
pair  in  good  w’orking  order,  and  being  ser¬ 
viceable  5  years  longer,  but  if  worked  much 
more  than  this,  liable  to  be  laid  up  a  good  part 
of  the  time  from  some  ailment  coming  to  one  or 
other  of  a  pair.  The  longer  they  are  worked, 
the  poorer  beef  they  make;  for  though  they 
fatten  readily  enough,  yet  the  beef  is  tallowy, 
and  will  not  bring  so  good  a  price  as  that  of 
younger  animals.  There  is,  indeed,  a  great  dif¬ 
ference  in  oxen,  yet  it  is  especially  true  of  the 
short-horns,  and  their  grades,  that  the  period  of 
making  flesh  and  fat  together  passes  away  at  a 
comparatively  early  age,  leaving  a  capacity  to 
fatten,  but  not  to  make  marbled  beef. 

Among  the  mongrels  which  go  by  the  name 
of  “Natives,”  we  not  unfrequently  find  light 
pairs  of  cattle,  which  for  spring,  quickness,  and 
nerve,  can  hardly  be  excelled,  but  nevertheless, 
the  Devons,  as  a  breed,  are  decidedlysuperior 
to  all  others  in  this  respect,  and  very  handsome. 
They  are  usually  put  to  light  work  at  3  years 
old,  but  do  not  get  their  full  growth  and 
strength  before  they  are  7  or  8.  They  remain 
serviceable  for  many  years — if  well  treated,  may 
be  worked  till  IG  to  20  years  old,  though  this  is 
seldom  done,  because  rvith  age  come  Infirmities 
and  inaptness  to  fatten  readily  and  uniformly. 
For  ordinary  farm  work,  especially  if  they  are 
to  be  used  much  on  the  road,  a  pair  of  red  cat¬ 
tle  three-fourths  .or  seven-eighths  Devon,  and 
weighing  together  2,200  to  2,600  pounds,  is  about 
as  pleasant  a  team  as  a  man  can  have  or  desire. 

The  -white-faced  Ilerefords,  and  their  grades, 
make  powerful  oxen,  not  so  lazy  nor  so  tender 
as  the  short-horns,  nor  possessed  of  anything 
like  the  snap  and  vivacity  of  the  Devons,  but 
excellent  for  common  farm  work.  For  cattle  to 
sell,  large  pairs  of  short-horns,  4  or  5  years  old, 
well  matched,  with  as  much  red  as  possible,  and 
weighing  above  1,500  pounds  apiece,  are  per¬ 
haps  most  profitable,  at  any  rate,  they  bring 
the  highest  prices ;  but  the  smallest  Devon  cat¬ 
tle,  of  bright  but  dark  mahogany  red  color,  with 
long  white  horns,  well  matched  in  looks  and 
weight,  and  turning  the  scale  with  something 
over  a  ton  to  the  pair,  are  the  farmers’  favorites, 
especially  in  the  hilly  sections  of  the  country. 


Bad  Management  in  Cultivating  Oats. 

The  sytem  of  management  which  is  adopted 
very  extensively  in  many  parts  of  the  United 
States,  is  decidedly  bad,  not  only  for  the  imme¬ 
diate  pecuniary  interest  of  farmers,  but  for  the 
productiveness  of  their  farms,  and  for  the  coun¬ 
try.  It  is  bad  for  farmers^  because  they  receive 
only  a  light  crop,  when  their  soil  is  capable  of 
yielding,  in  many  instances,  twice  as  much  as  it 
has  formerly  produced,  with  the  same  amount 
of  cultivation.  It  is  bad  for  the  soil,  because  it 
is  kept  in  a  very  foul  condition,  which,  of  course, 
renders  it  less  productive.  And  it  is  bad  for  the 
country,  because  field  agriculture  is  the  great 
motive  power  of  the  nation,  and  anything  that 
tends  to  diminish  the  quantity  of  grain  will 


tend  to  cripple  the  resources  of  government. 

We  refer,  particularl}'^,  to  the  practice  of 
growing  oats  for  many  3'ears  in  succession  on 
the  same  soil,  by  plowing  it  only  once,  and 
seldom  returning  aitything,  in  the  form  of  fer¬ 
tilizers,  to  compensate  for  the  crops  that  have 
been  removed.  Thousands  of  acres  of  excel¬ 
lent  land  for  agricultural  purposes  are  cultivated 
in  this  way,  until  Canada  thistles,  wild  mustard^ 
horse  dock,  and  many  other  noxious  weeds  have 
taken  almost  entire  possession  of  the  soil;  and 
one  of  the  worst  features  in  this  system  of  man¬ 
agement  with  the  oat  crop  is,  all  the  weeds 
mature  their  seed  before  the  oats  are  ripe  enough 
to  cut,  and  enough  is  shelled  out,  when  the  oats 
are  harvested,  to  seed  the  soil  for  seven  j-ears 
to  come,  and  the  Canada  thistle  seed  is  blown 
all  over  the  country.  In  all  such  localities, 
if  farmers  will  discontinue  oats,  and  raise  a 
crop  of  Indian  corn  one  year,  and  a  crop  of 
buckwheat  the  next  season,  and  apply  all  the, 
manure  they  are  able  to  make,  they  will  soon, 
find  that  it  will  be  far  better,  and  more  profit¬ 
able,  to  adopt  some  short  rotation  system,  even 
where  oats  have  heen  considered  the  most  profit¬ 
able  crop  to  raise,  for  several  j'earsin  succession. 
It  i.s  quite  impracticable  for  a  fanner  to  avail 
himself  of  the  great  benefits  arising  from  clean 
cultivation  of  the  soil,  tvhen  it  is  plowed  only 
once  each  jmar,  and  then  in  the  stn-ing. 


Root  Cutter. — We  advised  the  use  of  a 
spade  to  cut  roots  in  our  last  issue, 
not  because  it  is  the  host  thing,  but 
because  it  is  one  of  the  handiest. 
Here  is  a  very  simple  contriv¬ 
ance  for  cutting  roots  which  can 
be  made  by  any  good  blacksmith. 
It  consists  of  a  knife  in  the  shape 
of  a  letter  S,  (A,  and  B,  in  the  figure), 
a  handle  being  inserted  as  shown 
in  the  accompanying  cut.  At  G, 
is  showm  a  form  of  double  knife 
preferred  by  some,  and  no  doubt 
capable  of  doing  more  rapid  worlc 
^  These  knives  are  much  in  use  in 
filEiJHiQ  Clermany,  and  the  engraving  is  from 
iilPlHlill  ^  made  there  some  j'ears  ago. 

Where  many  roots  are  fed,  it  will 
pay  to  procure  some  one  of  the  machines,  made 
specially  for  this  purpose,  which  cut  beets,  tur¬ 
nips,  or  carrots  in  thin  pieces,  and  very  rapidly. 
They  cost  all  the  w'ay  from  $15  to  $50,  or  more. 


Removing'  Pence  Posts. 


When  posts  have  been  a  long  time  in  the 
ground,  it  is  a  difficult  matter  to  remove  them  in 
the  usual  way,  by  working  with  the  crow’bar  and 
spade,  especially  i: 
largest  at  the  lo' 

Mr.  R.  S.  Hubbard, 
dlesex  Co.,  Conn., 
a  plan  for  removii 
very  easily  with  the 
yoke  of  oxen  anc 
The  chain  is  hitche 
post  close  to  the 
and  passed  over  a 
stout  plank  three  f< 
which  leans  tow 
post  to  be  drawn, 
of  the  cattle  upon  the  other  end  of  the  chain 
will  easily  lift  the  post.  The  drawing  will  show 
the  manner  of  aiTanging  the  chain. 


Most  men  will  have  a  living  if  they  die  for  it 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[ilABCH, 


78 


Fij;.  1. — COTTAGE. 


Small,  Convenient,  Cheap  Houses. 

BY  NAIIIIAGANSET. 


Snug,  conveuient,  and  cheap  cottages,  for 
people  of  small  means,  are  a  great  desideratum. 
They  who  have  wealth  in  abundance,  can  build 
large  houses  and  provide  for  every  luxury.  But 
is  it  impossible  that  the  poor  man  should  have 
a  comfortable,  convenient  home  ?  From  the 
many  ill-contrived,  small  dwellings  that  have 
been  carelessly  thrown  together  for  the  discom¬ 
fort  of  those  who  inhabit  them,  it  might  be  in¬ 
ferred  that,  in  the  poor  man’s  vocabulary,  were 
no  such  words  as  comfort"  vnxdi convenience." 

Because  a  house  is  small,  it  need  not  be  incon¬ 
venient.  But  to  combine  desirable  conveniences 
within  a  limited  and  economical  space,  requires 
more  thoughtful  study  than  where  an  abundance 
of  room  is  at  one’s  command.  And  this 
thoughtful  study  the  poor  man  often  has  not 
time  to  bestow ;  those  he  may  employ  to  con¬ 
struct  his  dwelling  may  be  too  incompetent 
or  indifferent  to  supply  it,  and  the  result  is, 
that  when  the  building  is  completed,  it  is  lack¬ 
ing  in  many  of  those  little  contrivances  which 
so  much  contribute  to  the  comfort  of  a  fomily, 
and  which,  if  seasonably  provided  for,  might 
have  been  enjoyed  without  any  additional  cost- 

There  have  been,  from  time  to  time,  many 
little  bits  of  fanciful  architecture  placed  before 
the  public,  under  the  stjde  of  “  Cottages  for  the 
Poor;”  but,  while  charming  to  look  upon  e.x- 
teriorily,  they  have,  for  the  most  part,  within 
been  destitute  of  those  essential  features  that 
contribute  to  the  real  wants  of  those  who  would 
live  respectably,  but  who  wiwsJ  live  economically. 
With  no  disposition  to  disparage  the  attempts 
to  make  a  house  externally  attractive,  we  deem 
it  of  still  higher  importance  to  provide  for  its 
interior  convenience ;  but  we  believe  that 
neither  point  need  be  sacrificed  to  the  other. 

In  illustration,  we  present  a  plan  for  a  cottage, 
adapted  to  the  wants  of  any  laboring  man,  with 
a  family  of  four  or  five  children.  In  this  plan, 
covering  18x30  feet,  we  have  the  following  ac¬ 
commodations  : — A  large  living  room  (L\  serv¬ 
ing  as  parlor  and  kitchen;  a  good  sized  bed¬ 
room  {B)  opening  from  it,  with  a  clothes-closet 
(C)  of  good  dimensions, — a  convenience  often 
wanting  in  small  houses, — and  a  snug  little 
closet,  with  shelves,  by  the  chimney.  There 
is  a  spacious  pantry  (P),  where  stores  may 
be  deposited,  such  as  flour  and  meal  barrels, 
etc.  On  the  opposite  side  of  the  sitting  room 
is  a  convenient  China  closet  {OG),  wfith  a  slide 
connecting  it  with  the  back  entry,  in  which  a 
sink  (<Si)  is  placed.  The  window  here  may 
be  of  less  dimensions  than  the  others,  only  fur¬ 
nishing  sufficient  light  for  the  sink;  the  space 
beneath  the  sink  should  be  closed  up  as  a 
kettle  closet.  From  the  back  entry  is  a 
descent  to  the  cellar.  From  the  front  entry 
is  the  stairway  to  the  attic  (-4),  closed  from  the 


entry  by  a  door  at  the  foot  of  the  stairs.  Above 
are  two  large  bedrooms  (S,  each  of  which  is 
supplied  with  a  good  closet,  and  each,  when 
necessary,  can  have  the  comfort  of  a  fire.  Over 
the  front  entry  is  a  large  linen  closet  (C),  which 
may  be  supplied  with  shelves,  and  used  for  the 
packing  away  of  bedding,  etc.  In  the  outer  attic 
is  a  space,  such  as  every  house  requires,  for  put¬ 
ting  trunks,  chests,  stoves,  etc.,  when  out  of  use. 

Any  one  who  has  lived  in  a  house,  where,  in 
case  of  sickness,  it  was  impossible  to  kindle  a 
fire  in  a  bedroom,  for  the  want  of  a  chimney, 
will  appreciate  the  conveniences  which  this 
plan  affords.  They,  also,  who  have  been  obliged 
to  garnish  the  walls  of  their  sleeping  rooms 
with  the  various  articles  of  their  wardrobe,  will 
understand  the  comfort  and  great  convenience 
which  the  closets  afford.  And  every  good 
housekeeper,  though  she  be  pecuniarily  poor, 
will  know  how  to  value  the  spacious  pantry 
and  convenient  china  closet.  We  have  made 
no  provision  for  a  parlor,  separate  from  the 
living-room,  for  in  families  whose  wants  this 
plan  was  designed  to  meet,  little  use  is  made  of 
such  a  room.  They  ordinarily  keep  but  one 
fire,  and  live  in  one  room ;  and,  with  the  con¬ 
veniences  furnished  by  closets  and  pantry,  the 
living-room  may  always  be  kept  in  a  present- 


Attic;  B,  JJ,  i>,  Bedrooms;  C,  C,  C,  Closets;  FB, 
Front  Door ;  i,  Living  room ;  F,  Fiintry ;  S,  Sink. 

able  condition.  With  the  convenience  of  a 
back  entrance,  the  front  entry  may  always  be 
kept  clean  and  neat.  It  affords  space  for  cloak- 
hooks  and  umbrella-stand ;  and,  with  a  bit  of 
oilcloth  upon  the  floor,  may  be  as  genteel  as 
many  of  much  larger  dimensions  and  more  am¬ 
bitious  pretension.  Against  the  blind  end  of 
the  house,  (having  only  an  attic  window,)  if  ex¬ 
posed  to  the  south,  a  trellis  might  be  raised, 
and  a  grape  vine  trained,  w'hich  would  be  at 
once  fruitful  and  ornamental  also. 

While  we  have  aimed  mainly  at  internal  con¬ 
venience,  wm  think,  also,  that  the  exterior  of 
our  cottage  is  not  without  attraction.  What 
every  building  requires,  to  give  interest  to  its 
outline,  is  expression^ — something  that  shall  break 
up  the  monotony  of  a  plain,  dead  surface.  This 
we  have  secured  by  the  little  front  gable,  the 
projecting  roof,  and  the  simple  hoods  above  the 
doors  and  windows, — which  are  plain  pieces  of 
2-inch  plank,  supported  by  the  simplest  form 
of  a  bracket  underneath,  as  shown  in  fig.  3. 
These  do  for  the  house  in  regard  to  expres¬ 
sion,  what  the  projecting  lines  of  mouth,  chin, 
nose,  and  eyebrows  do  for  a  man’s  face.  They 
cast  shadows,  and  thus,  though  inexpensive,  give 


character  and  expression  to  the  building,  and  im¬ 
part  an  interest  it  would  not  otherwise  possess. 

A  man’s  face  might  be  as  flat  as  a  board,  and 
his  eyes,  nostrils,  and  mouth  but  so  many  per¬ 
forations  through  it,  and  they  might  still  answer 
every  absolutely  necessary  purpose  of  his  physi¬ 
cal  being.  It  is  the  projecting 
lines  of  his  features,  across 
which  play  the  light  and  shade, 
that  afford  that  variety  of  ex¬ 
pression,  of  the  study  of  which 
we  never  tire.  By  the  applica¬ 
tion  of  this  same  principle,  a 
house  may  be  made  more  in 
„  teresting  than  a  mere  sugar 

box.  In  the  above  design,  the 
posts  should  be  at  least  twelve  feet,  the  lower 
rooms  nine  feet  between  joists,  and  the  roof  be 
pitched  at  a  right  angle, — as  they  sa}--,  at  a 
quarter  pitch. 

- ■  « - 

Gravel-wall,  or  Concrete  Buildings. 


No  one  will  seriously  consider  the  erection  of 
gravel-wall  buildings  for  his  own  use,  who  is 
not  situated  where  saud,  gravel,  and  larger 
stones  may  be  readily  obtained.  Where  these 
are  at  hand,  the  subject  is  well  worth  the  con¬ 
sideration  of  every  one  who  is  going  to  build. 
First,  decide  who  will  do  the  work.  If  yov 
must  trust  it  all,  or  chiefly,  to  a  professional 
stone-mason,  brick-layer,  or  builder  of  any 
kind,  take  his  advice  and  use  stone,  brick,  or 
wood.  If  you  can  attend  to  it  yourself,  and,  at 
least,  sttperintend  the  whole,  you  will  do  well. 

The  materials  requisite  are  sharp  sand  (free  i 
from  dirt),  gravel  (free  from  dirt),  and  well-burn-  ■ 
(id  lime.  The  presence  of  stones,  even  of  the  size  | 
(jf  one’s  fist,  among  the  gravel,  is  no  disadvant-  i 
age,  and,  if  not  present,  they  may  be  added.  If,  j 
however,  no  stones  of  an  intermediate  size  be¬ 
tween  small  gravel  and  large  flat  stones  exist, 
as  is  very  often  the  case,  the  stones  may  be  ; 
broken  up,  or  laid  in  the  wall  with  the  mortar,  j 
Such  a  wall,  however,  is  a  departure  from  the  | 
proper  concrete  wall,  though  perhaps  equally 
good,  if  well  laid.  It  may  be  laid  in  “flasks,”  i 
or  “curbing,”  like  concrete.  The  lime  need  i 
not  be  of  such  quality  as  is  necessary  for  fine 
smooth  mortar;  no  matter  how  coarse  it  is,  if 
it  be  only  freshly  burnt,  and  capable  of  making  ■ 
a  strong  mortar.  If  it  sets  quickly,  so  much 
more  rapidly  the  work  may  be  pusheci  forward.  1 
Oyster-shell  lime  answers  perfectly  well.  It  I 
ought  to  be  thoroughly  burned,  and  unslaked. 

Do  not  buy  and  transport  the  slaked  shell 
lime  with  one-fourth  of  its  weight  of  water. 

When  the  ground  is  dry,  and  well-drained 
naturally,  the  foundation  may  be  of  concrete, 
made  by  using  one-third  good  hydraulic  cement 
with  the  lime.  A  wide  course  of  flat  stones 
is  perhaps  the  best  arrangement  to  base  a 
foundation  wall  upon.  In  case  springs  are  en-  j 
countered,  or  the  ground  is  of  a  wet  nature,  j 
it  is  well  to  lay  a  tile  drain  outside  the  founda-  ; 
tion.  With  proper  care,  even  in  such  a  soil, 
hydraulic  concrete  may  well  be  used,  but  it  is  j 
usually  better  to  lay  a  good  stone  foundation  I 
where  the  soil  is  very  wet. 

There  are  several  methods  of  carrying  up 
the  walls,  which  are  worthy  of  attention.  Tlio 
simplest  consists  in  placing  a  “curbing”  of 
boards  on  each  side  and  putting  in  the  concrete 
thus  formed,  where  it  sets.  With  a  little  con¬ 
trivance,  corners  may  be  turned  very  accurately 
and  well.  The  difficulty  with  this  method  is 
the  care  requisite  to  carry  up  a  smooth,  even 
wall,  with  square  corners.  Another  method, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


79 


niglily  recommended  by  some  who  have  had 
experience  in  this  matter,  is  to  construct  regular 
“  flasks,”  or  moulds,  made,  sa}'  3  feet  long,  14 
inches  high,  as  wide  as  the  wall  is  thick,  and 
made  to  take  apart  easily.  In  these  the  concrete 
is  placed,  and  when  it  has  set,  the  flasks  are  re¬ 
moved,  and  after  a  few  days,  these  artificial 
stones  become  sufficiently  firm  to  be  handled, 
when  they  are  laid  in  the  wall,  in  mortar,  ex¬ 
actly  like  hewn  stones.  One  advantage  claimed 
for  this  method  is,  that  the  work  may  go  on 
during  storms  or  rainy  weather,  as  well  as  at 
any  other  time,  for  it  is  done  under  sheds.  Other 
advantages  are,  that  the  walls  are  evener,  and 
that  they  may  have  more  the  appearance  of 
stone  work — which  is  perhaps  no  recommen¬ 
dation.  The  blocks  may  be  formed  round  a 
“core,”  or  cores,  and  thus  the  benefits  of  a 
hollow  wall  secured,  possessing  the  advantage 
of  flues  for  ventilation,  and  chimney  flues,  in 
any  part  of  the  house.  These,  however,  are 
easily  provided  in  the  common  way  of  mak¬ 
ing  the  concrete  wall,  at  the  time  it  is  laid. 

Yet  another  method  is  to  lay  up  stone  or  brick 
“  piers,”  at  the  corners  at  least,  and  perhaps  at 
other  points  in  the  wall  if  it  have  a  great 
length.  Between  the  piers  the  wall  is  laid  of 
concrete,  the  boards,  or  “  curbing,”  being  kept 
in  place  by  the  piers,  so  that  the  irregularities 
incident  to  careless  work,  when  no  piers  are 
built,  are  avoided.  The  use  of  the  blocks  of 
concrete  above  described,  instead  of  stone  or 
brick,  to  lay  piers,  has  been  recommended,  and 
would,  doubtless,  be  an  excellent  and  very  con¬ 
venientway  to  secure  perpendicular  corners  and 
regular  walls,  without  the  use  of  stone  or  brick. 
We  are  inclined  to  commend  this  idea,  for,  if 
properly  carried  out,  it  will  enable  one  to  finish 
the  wall  very  roughly,  while  the  corners  and 
piers  are  smooth,  the  effect  of  which  is  veiy 
agreeable,  and  the  false  look  of  stucco,  blocked 
off  to  represent  hewn  stone,  is  avoided.  No 
matter  how  simple  or  elaborate  the  structure, 
any  flilse  representation  is  a  fault.  Wood  should 
be  wood,  and  nothing  else,  and  stone,  stone. 
When  we  represent  stone  work  by  wood,  the 
appearance  may  be  good  at  a  distance,  but  the 
near  view  reveals  the  fraud.  It  is  only  the  con¬ 
stant  employment  of  these  architectural  frauds 
that  leads  us  to  tolerate  them.  In  another 
article,  we  purpose  to  consider  the  best  way  to 
make  the  “  curbing,”  how  to  keep  it  in  place,  and 
how  to  make  an  even,  regular,  substantial  wall. 


Talks  About  Grass . 11. 

(Continued  from  page  45.) 


In  an  article  in  last  month’s  Agriculturist,  we 
gave  a  description  of  the  general  structnre  of 
the  flowers  of  grass,  and  took  those  of  Timothy 
and  Red-top  for  illustration,  they  being  of  the 
most  simple  character. 

As  it  is  designed  to 
make  these  articles 
practical,  as  well  as 
partly  botanical  in 
their  character,  no 
particular  order  will 
be  followed,  but  we 
shall  notice  first  those 
about  which  most  in¬ 
quiry  is  made,  and  en- 
Aeavor  to  give  such 
Jescriptions,  divested 
*f  such  technicalities, 
as  far  as  the  nature  of  the  subject  will  admit, 
as  will  enable  one  to  recognize  the  species, 
and  also  some  notes  on  their  uses  and  culture. 


and  stout  stems,  which  grow  about  three  feet 
high,  and  even  five  in  rich  soil.  The  stems,  where 
the  grass  does  not  grow  very  thickly,  are  often 
bent  at  the  base  towards  the  ground,  aud  then 
rise  perpendicularly.  The  leaves  are  from  6  to 
18  inches  long,  broad,  and  rough  on  both  sides. 
The  panicle  or  flower  cluster  is  of  a  bluish 
green,  often  tinged  with  purple,  and  somewhat 
one-sided.  The  general  appearance  of  the  plant 
is  given  in  the  engraving,  wdiere,  to  economize 
space,  the  stem  is  cut  off  and  doubled  up.  In 
order  to  describe  the  structure  of  the  flowers, 
we  must  employ  the  terms  defined  in  the  first 
article,  and,  to  aid  the  description,  the  spike- 
let  of  Red-top  used  there  is  reproduced  here. 

It  will  be  recollected  that  the  parts,  a,  b,  Fig. 
3,  are  glumes.  What  is  within  these  constitute 
the  floret,  which  is  made  up  of  the  two  paleae,  c, 
d,  and  the  stamens  and  pistil  which  they  enclose. 
By  comparing  this  figure  of  the  Red-top  with 
that  of  the  Orchard  grass,  fig.  6,  the  difference 
will,  at  first,  appear  greater  than  it  will  really  be 
fomid  to  be  after  a  careful  examination.  We 
have,  in  the  flower  of  the  Orchard  grass,  the 
pair  of  glumes  at  the  base  of  the  spikelet,  cor¬ 
responding  to  a,  b,  of  fig.  3,  and  inside  of  them, 
instead  of  a  single  floret,  there  are  three,  placed 
upon  opposite  sides  of  a  short  stem  within  the 
glumes.  Each  of  these  florets,  as  in  case  of 
Red-top,  consists  of  the  palese  which  are  shown 
here  as  nearly  closed  together.  The  lower 
palea  has  rough  hairs  upon  the  back,  and  ter¬ 
minates  at  the  apex  in  a  short,  bristle-like  point. 
With  a  magnifier,  five  lines,  or  nerves,  may  be 
seen  upon  the  lower  palea.  Sometimes  the 
spikelets,  instead  of  being  three-flowered,  as 
shown  in  the  engraving,  have  four  flowers  or 
florets.  We  have  been  thus  minute  in  the 
description  of  the  structure  of  the  flowers  of 
these  two  grasses,  as  they  serve  as  types  of  tyrp 
divisions  of  grasses.  The  Red-top  being  an 
example  of  the  general  structure  of  the  one- 


flovjered  grass,  or  those  with  one  floret  within 
the  glumes,  while  the  Orchard  grass  serves  to 
illustrate  the  many-fbwered  species,  or  those 
of  which  the  glumes  enclose  two  or  more  flowers. 
The  generic  name  Dactylis,  is  from  the  Greek, 
meaning  a  finger’s  breadth,  and  is  supposed  tf> 
refer  to  the  size  of  the  clusters  of  spikelets,  and 
glomerata,  its  specific  name,  describes  the  manner 
in  which  the  spikelets  are  glomerated,  or  cjow fl¬ 
ed  together  in  little  bunches.  This  grass  is  a 
native  of  Europe,  aud  was  early  introduced  into 
cultivation  in  this 
country.  There  is 
perhaps  no  grass 
concerning  the  value 
of  which  such  wide- 
1^'^  varying  opinions 
have  been  entertain¬ 
ed,  a  diversity  which 
is  owing  in  good  part 
to  the  fiict  that  the 
grass  takes  on  a 
quite  different  char¬ 
acter  according  as 
it  grows  thickly  or 
thinly.  The  experi¬ 
ence  of  one  of  our  editors  has  been  quite  in 
its  favor,  but  the  remarks  concerning  its  cul¬ 
ture  must  be  deferred  until  another  month. 

Kentucky  Blue  Grass. — Green  Meadow 
Grass. — June  Grass. — Poa  pratensis. — That  this 
grass  should  have  received  several  popular 
names,  shows  that  it  is  widely  known,  and  also 
serves  to  indicate  the  fiict,  which  botanists  have 
long  recognized,  that  it  is  a  species  so  changed 
in  general  appearance,  by  soil  and  situation, 
that  the  grass  growing  in  one  locality  is  regard¬ 
ed  as  a  distinct  species  from  the  same  thing 
growing  in  another.  Indeed,  botanists,  who  are 
supposed  to  be  more  accurate  than  ordinary 


observers,  and  to  be  able  to  give  a  reason  for 
their  views,  have  called  the  same  thing  by  half 


Fig.  6.— orchard  grass. 


[Maech, 


BO 


AMERICAN  AORICULTURIST. 


El  lidzc!!  (’.ifl'cri'n!  n:inies.  The  general  appear- 
;,ncf  dl' UiiE  plant  is  sho>\vn  in  fig.  7.  The  root 
is  pereiiEiiEil,  Etiu!  throws  off  numerous  and  long 
creeping  root  stocks,  which  enable  it  to  form  a 
dense  m;iUed  turf,  and  also  serve  to  distinguish 
it  from  tlie  nearly  rehrted  Rough  Meadow  grass 
[roa  trivial  is).  The  lesives  are  quite  narrow,  but 
their  luxuriance  varies  greatly  with  the  soil  in 
which  they  grow.  The  stems  are  from  1  to  3 
feet  liigh,  slender,  smooth,  and  round.  This 
cylindrical  form  of  the  stem  serves  to  distinguish 
this  from  another  species  often  cal¬ 
led  Blue  grass,  Poa  compressa,  which 
has  a  stem  so  strongly  flattened  as 
to  be  at  once  recognized.  The 
form  of  the  panicle,  or  flower  clus¬ 
ter,  is  shown  in  fig.  7.  Its  branches, 
however,  are  often  five  or  seven 
from  the  same  point.  Thespikelets 
are  one-twelfth  to  one-sixth  of  an 
inch  long,  tliree  to  five-flowered, 
and  of  the  shape  of  the  magnified 
one  shown  in  fig.  8.  The  palea.  Fig.  8 — blue 
in  common  witli  man}' related  gras-  gkass. 
ses,  has  a  tuft  of  cobweb-like  hairs  at  the  base. 
In  addition  to  the  names  for  this  grass  above 
quoted,  an  intelligent  Rhode  Island  correspon¬ 
dent  stales,  in  last  month’s  paper,  that  he  has 
satisfied  himself  that  this  is  the  grass  known  as 
Rhode  Island  Bent,  a  name  which  has  usually 
been  considered  as  a  synonv^,  of  Red-top.  This 
is  a  viiluable  grsiss,  auo,  on  account  of  the 
dense  turf  it  make',,  is  especiiilly  adapted  for 
lawns.  But  our  remarks  on  the  agricultunrl 
value  of  this,  as  well  as  of  Orchard  Grass,  must 
be  reserved  for  another  article. 


I -0-0 


h.  Convenient  Portable  Swill-Barrel. 


The  accompanying  illustration  represents  a 
Portable  Swill-Barrel,  evenly  balanced  on  a 
pair  of  light  wheels,  which  ought  to  be  about  3 
feet  in  diameter.  The  spokes  and  fellies  of  the 
wheels  should  be  made  of  the  best  timber,  in 
order  to  secure  great  strength  and  lightness. 
Dress  out  a  stick  of  tough  wood  for  an  axletree, 
about  2  inches  square,  and  make  an  axle-arm 
on  each  end  of  it,  to  fit  the  wheels.  The  length 
of  the  main  part  of  the  axletree,  between  the 
wheels,  should  be  about  30  inches.  Make  a 
square  mortise  through  two  opposite  sides  of 
the  barrel,  just  large  enough  to  receive  the  axle- 
tree.  Let  the  w’ork  be  done  neatly,  so  as  to 
secure  a  good  fit,  and  calk  the  cracks  with  tow, 
or  with  the  strands  of  a  rope  picked  to  pieces. 
Two  straight  sticks  for  thills,  with  a  cross-piece 
connecting  the  forward  ends,  are  bolted  to  the 
axletree  with  small  carriage  bolts.  The  axle- 
?  tree  should  pass  through  the  barrel,  a  little  be¬ 
low  the  bilge,  provided  the  wheels  are  high 
enough  to  swing  it  clesir  from  the  ground. 

The  advantages  of  such  a  portable  swill- 
barrel  will  be  readily  appreciated  by  every  one 
W'ho  desires  to  keep  the  offensive  odor,  which 
always  arises  from  the  piggery,  at  a  distance 
from  the  dwelling  house.  The  barrel,  wheeled  to 
the  door  of  the  kitchen,  may  receive  the  swill, 
and  can  then  be  trundled  back  to  the  piggery. 


Thus  M'e  dispense  with  all  the  disagreeable 
handling  and  spilling  of  swill,  unavoidable 
when  a  sw'ill-barrel  is  stationary  and  the  swill 
is  carried  in  pails  from  the  kitchen  to  the  sty. 
Another  very  important  consideration  is,  that 
if  !in  inclined  plane  be  made  for  the  wheels  to 
run  upon,  the  contents  of  the  barrel  may  be 
poured  directly  into  another  barrel,  or  into  the 
feeding  trough,  by  simply  elevating  the  shafts 
so  as  to  turn  the  barrel  over  backwards.  A 
barrel  maybe  supported  on  wheels  in. this  man¬ 
ner,  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  water  to  stock 
of  any  kind,  or  for  any  other  purpose  where  it 
is  usual  to  carry  water,  liquid  manure,  etc.,  in 
pails.  A  lid  should  fit  the  top  of  the  barrel 
closely,  to  keep  the  liquid  from  slopping  over. 


Tim  Bunker’s  Raid  Among  tke  Pickle 
Patekes. — {Concluded  from  page  4G.) 

Mr.  Editor. — I  began  to  give  you  some  ac¬ 
count  last  month  about  the  way  Noadiah  Tubbs 
raised  pickles  up  in  'Westchester  County.  I 
W'anted  your  readers  to  hear  him  out,  for  when 
you  get  an  old  farmer  to  talking  on  a  subject 
that  he  feels  at  home  in,  he  ahvays  has  some¬ 
thing  to  say  w'orth  hearing.  Daniel  Webster 
learned  something  about  growing  turnips  from 
the  farmers  of  Old  England,  and  a  very  plain 
boatman  taught  him  in  codfishing.  Diah’s  mor¬ 
als  don’t  exactly  square  with  ray  notions,  but  I 
am  willing  to  own  that  he  knows  more  than  I 
do  about  raising  pickles.  So  you  may  just  im¬ 
agine  that  he  sits  there  cocked  up  in  his  flag- 
bottomed  chair  in  the  corner,  squirting  tobacco 
juice  into  the  sanded  spit  box  and  “pickle  ed- 
dication  ”  into  Tim  Bunker. 

“I  wonder  you  don’t  cultivate  your  crop 
more,  wdiat  is  the  reason  ?”  . 

“  Wal,”  said  Diah,  “  There’s  two  or  three  rea¬ 
sons.  You  see,  you  don’t  plow  the  ground  till 
the  weediest  part  of  the  season  is  over,  about 
July  1st.  Then  the  cultivating  comes  along  the 
last  of  the  month,  and  before  it  is  time  to  culti¬ 
vate  agin,  the  vines  are  in  the  way.  And  be¬ 
sides  I  allers  sow  turnips  at  the  time  of  cultiva¬ 
ting,  to  take  the  ground  when  the  vines  have 
done  bearing.  And  in  this  way  I  often  get  a 
half  crop  of  turnips  and  kill  two  birds  w’ith  one 
stone,  if  not  more ;  for  the  turnips  take  the 
place  of  w'eeds,  don’t  tax  the  ground  any  more 
and  are  a  great  deal  better  for  the  cattle.” 

“  I  hadn’t  thought  of  that,  I  declare.  When 
do  you  begin  to  pick  pickles  ?” 

“  It  won’t  vary  much  from  six  weeks  from  the 
time  of  plantin.” 

“  And  how  long  does  the  season  last  ?” 

“  It  will  hold  on  for  six  weeks  or  more,  until 
frost  comes  sometimes.” 

“What  do  you  do  to  keep  the  bugs  off?  I  am  al¬ 
ways  pestered  to  death  with  bugs  on  my  vines.” 

“  That  is  pretty  easily  managed  where  you 
have  so  many  vines.  Bugs  might  easily  eat  up 
a  dozen  hills  in  a  garden  w'here  they  w’ould 
more’n  have  their  mouths  full  in  a  two  acre  lot. 
I  generally  sprinkle  on  a  little  plaster  as  soon 
as  they  get  up  in  sight,  and  if  this  don’t  stop 
the  bugs  I  go  over  them  once  or  twice  more. 
The  plaster  is  good  manure  for  ’em  any  way, 
and  I  s’pose  a  pinch  of  guaner  in  it  would 
be  better  still.  If  I  had  hen  manure  plenty  I 
should  jest  as  lives  have  that.  I  calculate  to 
keep  the  vines  growing  so  fast  that  the  bugs 
can’t  catch  ’em.” 

“That’s  a  good  idea.  I  s’posc  that  accounts 
for  the  fact  that  we  don’t  see  so  many  vines  de¬ 
stroyed  in  w'et  seasons  as  in  dry.  I  never  thought 
of  that  before.  Now  I  should  like  to  know  a 


little  about  marketing  the  jiickles,  and  as  fEittn 
apples  are  gittin  rather  low  I’ll  let  you  rest.” 

“  I  ginerally  rqake  a  market  for  ’em  with  some 
pickle  maker  in  the  city  or  over  on  North  river. 
He  agrees  to  take  ’em  delivered  at  the  depot  at 
so  much  a  thousand — assorted  in  barrels.  We 
make  three  sizes.  The  big  ones  sire  for  eating 
fresh,  and  I  s’pose  are  sold  in  market  by  the 
pickle  men  for  that  purpose.  The  other  two 
sizes  are  just  the  thing  for  pickles  and  go  the 
factory.  These  are  the  fellers  you  see  in  jars 
in  all  the  corner  grocery  stores.  We  pick  all 
sizes  together,  and  carry  them  to  some  conve¬ 
nient  place  under  a  shed,  at  the  edge  of  tlu! 
pickle  patch,  and  there  they  are  sorted  and  put 
in  barrels  and  sent  off  to  market.” 

“How  often  do  you  have  to  pick  ’em?” 

“  Every  other  day  is  the  rule.  But  sometimes 
a  rainy  day  comes  and  stops  the  picking,  which 
makes  trouble.  The  pickles  git  a  great  deal 
bigger  and  it  takes  about  a  third  more  barrels 
to  hold  ’em,  and  you  don’t  git  anything  extra 
for  your  trouble.  Some  folks  stop  for  Sunday, 
but  that  don’t  make  any  difference  with  me. 
I  never  could  see  but  what  pickles  pick’d  Sun¬ 
day  brought  jest  as  good  money  as  any  other.” 

“  Wal  now  I  don’t  believe  that  suits  Esther.” 

“  No  it  don’t.  She  and  the  parson  and  all  the 
children  have  a  ruunin  fight  with  me  on  that 
subject.” 

“  I  guess  M’hen  you  come  to  foot  the  bills  in 
the  final  account,  you’ll  find  that  all  the  money 
you’ve  made  by  Sunday  work  has  burnt  a  hole 
in  your  pocket  aVid  dropped  out.  But  how  many 
men  does  it  take  to  attend  to  a  pickle  patch  ?” 

“  You  ought  to  have  at  least  four  to  the  acre, 
and  they’ll  have  to  be  pretty  smart  to  keep  up 
with  the  work.  It  is  hard  on  the  back  until 
you  get  used  to  it.  You  can  work  in  boys  pret¬ 
ty  well,  as  they  don’t  have  so  fiir  to  bend.  You 
want  to  pick  one  half  of  the  patch  one  day,  and 
the  other  half  the  next,  and  so  on.” 

“  Wliat  do  you  make  your  shed  out  of?” 

“Most  any  thing  will  do  for  that.  Four 
crotched  sticks  and  two  poles  with  rails  laid 
across,  and  buckwheat  straw  or  any  refuse  hay 
put  on  to  make  a  cover,  and  shed  rain  will 
answer  very  well.” 

“How  many  pickles  can  you  raise  on  an  acre  ?” 

“Well  there  is  about  as  much  difference  in 
pickles  as  there  is  in  any  thing  else.  Your  suc¬ 
cess  depends  some  on  good  seed,  some  on  ma¬ 
nure,  and  some  on  care,  and  a  good  deal  on  luck.” 

“  Just  what  do  you  mean  by  luck  ?” 

“  It’s  what  man  hasn’t  any  thing  to  do  ivith. 
Some  would  call  it  the  season,  and  some  Prov¬ 
idence.  I  call  it  luck.” 

“I  guess  there  is  a  Providence  in  the  pickle 
crop  as  in  everything  else,  and  if  the  Almighty 
don’t  send  rain  you’ll  come  out  at  the  little  end 
of  the  horn.” 

“  Well,  it  may  be  so.  If  every  thing  works  right 
you  may  calculate  on  getting  about  three  hun¬ 
dred  thousand  pickles  to  the  acre.  Sometimes 
I  have  known  ’em  to  get  four,  but  they  must 
manure  high  and  have  uncommon  good  luck 
to  do  that.  A  good  many  fall  short  because 
they  don’t  understand  the  business." 

“  About  what  do  you  get  for  your  crop  taking 
them  by  the  season  ?” 

“  I  sold  them  last  year  for  fourteen  shillings  a 
thousand,  but  some  got  as  high  as  two  dollars. 
I  calculate  I  got  a  thousand  dollars  for  my  two 
acres,  and  the  expenses  were  less  than  four 
hundred,  and  I  had  to  hire  every  bit  of  labor. 
With  good  management  and  luck  I  should  say 
a  man  might  clear  about  three  hundred  dollars 
to  the  acre,  to  say  nothing  of  the  turnips  which 
come  mighty  handy.” 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


81 


“  And  what  is  the  etTect  of  the  crop  on  the 
land  ?  For  I  find  that  is  a  matter  to  be  taken 
into  the  account.  Some  crops  run  the  land  ter¬ 
rible  hard,  and  if  jmu  don’t  manure  high,  they’ll 
make  a  desert  of  it.” 

“  That’s  so.  Tobacco  for  instance.  I’ve  tried 
it  time  and  agin,  and  it  like  to  have  spiled  my 
farm.  It  took  about  all  the  manure  I  could 
rake  and  scrape  for  two  acres  of  tobacco,  and 
the  rest  of  the  land  went  dry.  It  ai’nt  so  with 
pickles.  They  are  prettj''  much  all  water,  and 
a.  good  deal  of  the  strength  of  the  manure  goes 
over  to  the  next  crop.  Then  if  they  are  well 
attended  to,  they  leaye  the  ground  pretty  clean. 
You  see  the  weeds  are  all  turned  under  the  last 
of  June,  and  agin,  when  you  cultivate  the  last 
of  July.  Then  the  turnips  sown  between  the 
.'ows  get  the  start  of  the  weeds,  and  when  these 
are  pulled  in  November,  you  have  a  pretty  clean 
field ;  I  have  allers  noticed  that  grass  and  almost 
other  crop  did  well  after  pickles.” 

Esther’s  apple  dish  got  low  about  this  time 
and  Diah’s  pond  of  pickle  knowledge  was  in 
the  same  condition.  I  pumped  him  dr}^ 
Hookertoivn^  Conn,,  j  Youi's  to  command, 

Feh,  loth,  1865.  i  Timothy  Bunker  Esq. 

-  ^  g—  I  o  — 

Preparing  for  Field  Labors. 

-  During  the  month  of  March,  farmers  should 
make  all  necessary  preparations  for  performing 
the  labors  of  the  field,  as  soon  as  the  soil  has 
become  sufficiently  dry  to  be  plowed,  and  the 
season  is  right.  Even  on  small  farms,  as  well  as 
on  large  ones,  there  is  much  preparation  to  be 
made.  Old  plows  should  be  put  in  order,  and 
new  ones  should  be  purchased ;  and  it  is  im¬ 
portant  that  a  little  effort  be  made  to  secure,  as 
far  as  practicable,  those  plows  that  are  best 
adapted  to  the  kind  of  plowing  to  be  done. 
Harrow  teeth  should  be  sharpened;  rollers, 
cultivators,  seed-drills,  spades,  hand-hoes,  and 
all  tools  and  implements  should  be  put  in  work¬ 
ing  order,  before  the  time  arrives  for  using  them. 

Some  farmers  are  always  behind-hand,  not 
only  during  seed  time,  but  with  their  haying 
and  harvest ;  and  one  prominent  reason  for  it 
is,  their  tools  and  implements  are  not  put  in 
order  in  good  time.  Our  own  practice  always 
was,  to  have  every  tool  and  farm  implement  in 
working  order  several  weeks  previous  to  the 
time  when  it  was  to  be  used. 

- - - 

An  English  Market  Farm. 


The  London  Agricultural  Gazette  gives  an 
account  of  one  of  the  large  farms  which  supply 
that  city  with  food,  from  which  we  condense 
some  interesting  particulars.  The  farm  is  that 
of  IMr.  W.  Adams,  at  East  Ham,  and  comprises 
about  800  acres,  upon  which  he  pays  rents, 
taxes,  and  tithes  to  the  amount  of  some  $25,000 
annually.  Seventy  horses  are  employed,  and 
the  annual  bill  for  labor  exceeds  $30,000.  These 
expenses,  together  with  the  amount  paid  for 
manures  and  commissions  on  sales,  make  up 
the  total  annual  payments  to  about  $100,000  a 
year.  The  above  amounts  are  taken  by  reckon¬ 
ing  the  English  pound  at  $5;  in  our  present 
currency,  they  would,  of  course,  be  more  than 
double.  The  chief  crops  are  cabbages,  carrots, 
potatoes,  and  onions,  of  which,  in  the  mode  of 
culture  followed,  from  six  to  eight  crops  are 
taken  in  four  years.  During  this  four  years,  the 
land  gets  about  120  tons  of  manure  per  acre, 
and  at  least  eight  thorough  plowings.  The  land 
is  kept  continually  at  work,  the  only  “rest”  it 
has  is  being  occasionally  allowed  to  produce  a 


crop  of  grain  or  peas.  Cabbages  are  the  main 
product,  and  of  these  sometimes  three  crops  are 
taken  from  the  land  duilng  the  year.  This 
heliT,^- cropping  demands  heavy  manuring,  and 
80  tons  per  acre  are  not  unfrequently  used 
duriiil§\he  year.  Notwithstanding  the  enormous 
amounts  of  produee  yielded  annually  per  aere, 
a  proportionate  amount  of  fertilizing  material 
being  added,  the  land  actually  improves  under 
the  treatment.  The  instance  given  here,  and 
the  market  gardens  near  our  own  large  cities, 
should  serve  as  a  lesson  to  those  farmers  who 
scatter  a  few  small  loads  of  manure  each  year, 
over  a  great  surface,  and  then  expect  large  crops. 

- - - «eei» - - - 

A  Word  about  Roses. 


A  pleasant  writer  on  rural  affairs,  says; 
“There  are  recipes  in  the  cookciy  books  for 
green-pea  soup  without  peas,  and  turtle  soup 
without  turtle,  but  we  know  of  no  recipe  for  a 
garden  without  roses.”  The  Rose  needs  no  ad- 
voeate,  for  there  is  scarcely  a  person,  who,  if 
limited  to  only  one  plant,  would  not  select  the 
Rose.  The  old  June  Roses  are  being  neglected 
for  the  Hybrid  Perpetuals,  Bourbons,  and  Teas. 
Yet  we  confess  to  a  liking  for  the  old  favorites. 
In  their  season,  they  bloom  in  the  greatest  pro¬ 
fusion,  and  one  has  roses  enough,  and  to  spare. 
Then  they  are  so  sweet,  and  smell  as  roses 
ought  to  smell.  Still  the  others  have  their  ad¬ 
vantages,  and  we  suppose  that  our  old  favorites 
must  stand  aside  for  the  new  sorts.  Whatever 
kind  of  roses  are  planted,  they  should  have  a 
deep,  good,  and  rich  soil,  moist,  but  not  wet. 
In  old  gardens,  it  is  much  better  to  I'emove  the 
soil  to  the  depth  of  a  foot,  and  replace  it  with 
earth  from  an  old  pasture,  working  in  some 
well-rotted  manure.  Cut  the  plants  to  two  or 
three  buds,  at  planting.  The  Hybrid  Perpetu¬ 
als  comprise  some  of  the  finest  roses.  They  are 
not  perpetual,  however,  but  bloom  profusely  in 
June,  and  give  a  smaller  crop  of  flowers  in 
autumn.  The  second  blooming  may  be  render¬ 
ed  more  abundant  by  pieking  off  half  of  the 
buds  formed  in  June,  and  removing  the  flowers 
as  soon  as  they  fade,  in  order  that  the  plant 
may  not  exhaust  itself  in  ripening  useless  seed. 
Among  the  standard  sorts  of  this  class  are. 
Giant  des  Battailles,  General  Jaqueminot,  Baron 
Prevost,  Pius  IX,  Madame  Plantier,  etc.  This 
class  are  hardy,  but  bloom  all  the  better  with  a 
slight  protection.  The  Bourbons  are  tender, 
and  must  be  protected  during  winter,  but  their 
constant  bloom  repays  the  extra  trouble. 
Souvenir  de  Malmaison,  Hermosa,  Souvenir  de 
I’Exposition,  and  George  Peabody,  are  good 
representatives  of  these.  The  China,  or  Bengal 
Roses,  are  also  free  bloomers ;  they  are  adapted 
to  pot  culture,  as  well  as  to  the  garden,  wdiere 
they  will  bloom  all  summer,  and,  after  being  pot¬ 
ted  and  cut  back,  they  will  flower  in  the  house. 
Agrippina,  Louis  Phillippe,  and  Mrs.  Bousan- 
quet,  are  well  known  Chinese  sorts.  The  Tea 
Roses  are  of  great  beauty,  and  of  most  delicate 
perfume,  but  they  are  more  tender  than  the 
others,  and  must  be  housed  in  winter.  Among 
the  choice  kinds,  are  Adam,  Safrano,  La  Pactole. 
Isabella,  Caroline,  Madam  Bravay,  etc.  The 
Moss  Roses  are  a  distinet  class,  and  are  general 
favorites.  The  Climbers  should  not  be  forgot¬ 
ten  ;  of  these  is  a  great  variety  of  Prairie  Roses, 
Ayrshire,  Boursalt,  etc.,  all  good  and  desirable. 
If  but  one  climbing  rose  can  be  had,  the  Balti¬ 
more  Belle  may  be  selected.  In  the  names 
above  given,  we  have  only  indicated  some  old 
and  readily  obtained  sorts.  There  are  many 
others  as  good,  and  new  ones  of  greqt  merit  are 


yearly  added  to  the  list.  "Whatever  roses  are 
planted,  let  them  be  on  their  own  roots.  While 
it  may  be  that  many  sorts  bloom  m.ore  freely 
when  grafted  on  the  Mannetti  slock,  they  are 
only  suited  to  professional  gai’dencrs,  and  ])eop!e, 
in  general,  will  find  them  productive  of  disaji- 
pointment.  Enough  desirable  sorts  may  be  had 
on  their  own  roots,  without  bothering  with  tbo 
grafted  ones. 

Tke  Time  to  Cut  Cions. 

The  question  whether  cions  for  grafting 
should  be  cut  early  or  late  has  been  discussed 
to  some  extent  in  the  agricultural  papers,  and 
was  the  subject  of  a  communication  read  at  a 
recent  Fruit-Growers’  meeting.  The  fact  is, 
that  success  depends  much  more  upon  their 
proper  keeping  than  upon  any  particular  month 
of  cutting.  The  cutting  should  not  be  delayed 
until  the  tree  awakes  from  its  dormant  condition, 
as  then  the  bark  loses  more  or  less  its  adhesion 
to  the  w'ood,  and  is  apt  to  slip  in  working.  The 
present  is  a  favorable  month  for  securing  grafts, 
and  they  may  be  preserved  in  sand,  soil,  or  any 
other  medium  that  will  prevent  them  from  dry¬ 
ing.  The  writer  of  the  letter  above  referred  to 
keeps  his  in  saw-dust  from  green  woo'd.  He 
finds  that  it  contains  just  the  proper  amount  of 
moisture  to  preserve  the  cions  in  good  condition. 

What  shall  we  do  for  Grafting  Wax? 

The  Crimean  war  had  its  influence  upon  horti¬ 
culture;  the  Russian  ports  being  closed,  we  wei'o 
cut  off  from  the  supply  of  bass  matting,  and 
were  obliged  to  look  elsewhere  for  tying  mate¬ 
rials.  In  a  similar  manner  the  war  of  the  rebel 
lion  has  shut  up  the  sources,  from  which  we 
derived  our  rosin,  and  this  essential  ingredient 
of  grafting  wax  has  become  so  enormously  e.\- 
pensive,  that  those  who  have  to  do  much  graft¬ 
ing,  are  looking  for  a  substitute.  In  operating 
on  small  stocks,  a  wax  of  some  kind  is  almost 
indispensable,  but  on  large  ones  the  old  fixshioii; 
ed  grafting  clay  may  be  employed.  This  was 
in  use  centuries  before  grafting  wax  was  invent¬ 
ed,  and  many  old  gardeners  claim  that  it  is 
superior  to  any  of  the  modern  compositions. 
While  it  is  less  pleasant  to  Avork  Avith,  it  has 
the  advantage,  that  it  retains  moisture,  and  the 
cions  are  not  so  readily  injured  by  drying,  and 
the  wood,  to  which  it  is  applied,  is  said  to  heal 
over  more  readily  than  when  Avax  is  used.  To 
make  grafting  clay  or  mortar,  tAvo  parts  of  clay 
or  stiff  clayey  loam  and  one  part  of  coav  dung, 
free  from  litter,  are  thoroughly  mixed  and  beaten 
together,  adding  some  very  fine  hay,  cut  short, 
to  give  toughness  to  the  mixture.  The  mass  is 
to  be  worked  over  and  tempered  in  the  same 
manner  as  mortar,  adding  Avater  if  necessary  to 
bring  it  to  a  proper  consistence.  The  clay 
should  be  prepared  some  weeks  before  it  is 
used,  and  it  will  be  all  the  better  if  it  is  Avorked 
over  several  times.  The  mass  may  be  made  into 
a  compact  heap  and  covered  over  to  prcAmnt 
drying.  If  it  is  disposed  to  become  too  drj’-,  a 
cavity  may  be  made  in  the  top  of  the  heap  and 
filled  with  water.  When  applied  in  grafting, 
the  mass  should  form  a  coating  at  least  an  inch 
in  thickness  and  be  smoothed  off  with  the  hand. 
- - — — - 

When  a  man  chooses  the  rcAvards  of  virtue, 
he  should  rem'ember  that  to  resign  the  pleasures 
of  vice  is  part  of  his  bargain. 

It  is  much  better  to  sleep  in  peace  on  tne 
bare  ground,  than  to  lie  unquiet  on  a  soft  bed, 


82 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[March, 


Preparing  Fire-Wood. 

In  most  parts  of  the  Empire  State,  as  well  as 
in  some  of  the  Eastern  States,  many  farmers  are 
busy  a  portion  of  the  time,  from  January  to 
Apiil,  in  cutting  and  hauling  their  fire-wood 
for  next  5mar.  For  the  most  part,  it  is  sawed, 
split,  and  piled,  during  the  wet  and  stormy 
weather  of  March  and  April,  when  workmen 
cannot  engage  in  field  labors.  This  is  a  good 
liractice,  and  worthy  of  adoption  by  scores  of 
slip-shod  farmers,  who  commence  a  year  before¬ 
hand  to  prepare  their  fire-wood  for  a  year  to 
come,  but  who  are  never  able  to  get  it  split  and 
jiiled  in  lime  to  allow  it  to  become  well  seasoned 
tiefore  it  is  to  be  burned.  There  is  much  bad 
management  with  fire-wood.  Allowing  it  to 
remain  for  several  mouths  eriiosed  to  the 
w'eather,  after  it  has  been  cut  and  split  fine 
enough  for  the  stove,  is  a  very  bad  practice ; 
because  its  quality  will  be  injured,  moi’e  or 
less,  and  it  will  never  make  as  much  heat  as 
though  it  had  been  piled  under  an  open  shed, 
ns  soon  as  split,  and  before  it  was  seasoned. 

The  labor  of  splitting  fire  wood  for  stoves 
may  be  greatly  facilitated  by  using  a  splitting 
bench,  which  is  represented  by  the  accompany¬ 
ing  figure.  It  is  made  in  the  following  man¬ 
ner  :  procure  two 
small  logs,  or  round 
sticks  of  wood,  about 
three,  or  four  feet 
long,  and  six  or  eight 
inches  in  diameter. 
Connect  the  two  logs 
with  a  two-inch 
wooden  round,  near  each  end,  as  shown  by  the 
engraving,  so  as  to  form  an  opening,  about  ten  or 
twelve  inches  square.  Place  this  frame  on  four 
strong  legs,  driven  firmly  into  the  logs,  in  the 
under  side.  Place  billets  of  wood  in  the  bench, 
.standing  on  one  end,  and  app'y  the  axe.  The 
object  of  the  bench  is  to  keep  the  wood  erect, 
while  it  is  being  split.  When  a  splitting  bench 
Is  not  used,  the  workman  is  obliged  to  set  up  the 
bLlJet  every  time  a  stick  is  split  off.  Conse¬ 
quently,  he  \yill  spend  as  much,  or  perhaps 
more  time,  m  simply  seUing  up  his  sticks,  in  a 
proper  position  for  splitting,  than  ho  will  in 
splitting  them.  After  a  billet  of  wood  has  beep 
plHced  in  the  splitting  bench,  a  man  may  split 


three,  or  four  of  them  fine  enough  for  the  stove, 
about  as  soon  as  he  will  be  able  to  split  one 
stick,  without  using  such  a  bench.  The  hight 
of  the  bench  should  be  about  two  thirds  the 
length  of  the  wood  that  is  to  be  split.  A  split¬ 
ting  bench  of  a  different  style  may  be  construct¬ 
ed,  by  using  the  crotch  of  a  tree,  with  a  stick 
fastened  across  the  two  branches.  In  using 
any  kind  of  a  wood  splitting  bench,  care  must 
be  exercised  not  to  allow  the  axe  to  pass 
through  a  stick  so  far,  as  to  permit  the  helve 
to  strike  on  one  of  the  sides  of  the  bench, 
as  one  careless  blow  would  break  it.  Let  the 
blows  be  applied  in  such  a  manner,  that  the 
edge  of  the  axe  will  pass  through  the  upper  end 
of  a  billet  of  wood,  and  strike  the  side  log. 

Tliere  are  many  pleasing  incidents  and  asso¬ 
ciations  connected  with  hauling  wood,  in  the 
manner  represented  by  the  accompanying  illus¬ 
tration.  Our  thoughts  revert  to  the  days  of 
boyhood,  when  we  were  accustomed  to  haul 
fire- wood  with  the  oxen  and  “ox-sled.”  The 
sled  was  made  entirelj^  of  wood,  with  not  a 
single  nail,  bolt,  band,  or  strap  of  iron  about  it ; 
even  the  shoes  were  made  of  some  kind  of  very 
hard  wood,  which  had  been  seasoned  not  less 
than  one  year,  expressly  for  that  purpose. 
These  hard-wood  shoos  were  fitted  neatly  to 
the  runners,  and  fastened  to  them  wfith  wooden 
pins.  In  many  of  our  Northern  States,  we  meet 
occasionally  with  one  of  these  sliding  vehicles, 
in  all  its  primeval  rudeness,  and  it  will  compare 
with  the  strong  and  neat  double  sleighs,  that 
are  now  in  use,  about  as  the  neat  and  effective 
steel  plows  do  with  the  rude  bull  plows  that 
were  in  use  on  many  farms  about  forty  years 
ago.  These  rude  sleds  are  made  by  our  back¬ 
woodsmen  in  the  following  manner: — A  tree, 
which  has  a  suitable  crook  for  the  runners,  is 
cut  down  and  split  into  two  parts,  which  are 
scored  and  hewed,  like  sticks  of  framing  timber. 
Then  the  beams  are  fastened  to  the  runners, 
with  wooden  pins.  All  the  tools  required  are  a 
chopping  axe,  a  carpenter’s  adze,  drawing-knife, 
two  augers,  and  a  hand-saw.  But  improved 
sliding  vehicles  have  nearly  supplanted  the 
“Yankee  ox-sled,”  even  in  the  newly  settled 
portions  of  the  Northern  and  Eastern  States. 


Tricks  and  treachery  are  the  practice  of 
fools  that  have  not  'wit  enough  to  be  honest. 


ITew  Varieties  of  Tomato. 

A  friend  in  Massachusetts,  who 
tries  all  the  new  vegetables,  has 
at  our  request  given  his  expe¬ 
rience  with  some  of  the  new 
Tomatoes.  He  says  of  the 
Valencia  Cluster  Tomato  : 
“A  flat,  smooth  sort,  of  good 
market  size,  growing  in  closely 
jammed  clusters  much  like  tlie 
extra  early  York.  It  is  a  hand¬ 
some  tomato,  but  against  it  lies 
the  fatal  objection  of  being  ter¬ 
ribly  late — the  latest  by  far  of  a 
dozen  varieties  cultivated  last 
season.  Some  of  .the  vines  ex¬ 
hibited  the  peculiarity  of  very 
light  colored  leaves  at  the  ex¬ 
tremities  of  the  shoots,  having 
a  half  bleached  look,  like  the 
head  of  a  Blumenthaler  Savoy 
Cabbage. — The  Cook’s  Favor¬ 
ite.  This  variety  is  a  very 
vigorous  grower,  lipens  veiy 
early,  and  is  prolific.  The  foliage 
is  of  a  handsome  light  green. 
It  is  an  improved  sort  of  the  apple  tomato,  giv¬ 
ing  a  larger  proportion  of  large  handsome  apple¬ 
shaped  fruit,  than  any  of  the  common  sorts ; 
the  fruit  ripening  to  the  stem,  and  being  full 
meated.  The  tomatoes  are  of  fine  size,  and  of 
good  flavor.  On  the  whole  it  is  decidedly  the 
best  variety  of  the  apple  tomato  in  the  market. 

Extra  Early  York  Tomato.  This  is  mostly 
a  flat-round,  slightly  scolloped  form.  It  is  quite 
early,  yields  its  fruits  in  clusters.  It  does  not 
ran  to  vine  so  much  as  most  varieties,  the 
plants  growing  to  about  two-thirds  the  usual 
size.  It  ripens  its  fruit  to  the  veiy  extremity  of 
the  branch.  The  quality  is  excellent,  and  it  very 
seldom  decays  on  the  vine.  I  have  found  no 
tomato,  in  my  testing  of  over  a  dozen  varieties, 
that  will  yield  so  much  ripe  fruit  to  a  given  area 
as  this.  This  and  the  Cook’s  Favorite  will)  some 
large  later  sorts  would  leave  nothing  fuither 
to  be  desired  for  standard  market  tomatoes.” 

- m  %  —  a-*— - - 

The  Yokohama  Squash. 

Mr.  J.  J.  H.  Gregoiy,  of  Marblehead,  Mass., 
to  whom  we  are  indebted  for  the  Hubbard,  and 
who  is  acknowledged  authority  on  squashes, 
sends  us  the  following  notes  of  his  experience 
with  the  new  variety  of  Japan  Squash.  “It  re¬ 
quires  a  larger  season  to  mature  than  any  of  our 
standard  sorts ;  it  should  tlierefore — in  the 
latitude  of  Boston — be  started  under  glass.  It 
is  prolific,  grows  to  an  average  size  of  about  7 
pounds,  is  very  dark  green,  while  growing,  and 
begins  to  assume  a  dull  copper  color  near  the 
stem  and  calyx  end  as  it  ripens,  and  gradually 
turns  wholly  this  color.  It  is  very  flat  in  shape, 
and  remarkably  thick  mealed  latera^J^  The 
outside  of  most  of  them  is  covered  with  small 
blisters,  reminding  one  of  a  toad’s  back;  there 
appears  to  be  another  variety  in  which  these 
blisters  are  wanting.  This  squash  is  deeply 
sutured.  The  shape  of  the  leaf,  the  habit  of 
growth,  the  seed  and  the  quality  of  the  squash 
ally  it  very  evidently  with  the  Crook-neck  familjq 
with  which  I  have  no  doubt  it  will  cross.  The 
quality  of  this  squash,  when  fully  ripe,  is  ex¬ 
cellent,  being  very  fine  grained,  having  a  very 
smooth  taste,  sweet  and  rich,  it  being  like  the 
best  specimens  of  Canada  Crook-neck,  combined 
with  a  nice  marrow.  It  will  doubtless  prove 
a  great  favorite  with  a  large  class  of  persons. 


1865.1 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST. 


83 


How  to  Make  a  Cheap  Garden  Pit  or 
Frame. 


IVliere  aiiyiliing  but  the  iT'-lest  gardening  is 
carried  on,  some  appliances  are  iii  use  to  protect 
tender  plants  during  winter,  as  well  as  to  start 
them  into  growth  earlier  in  spring  than  they 
can  safely  be  exposed  witbout  protection.  Last 
month,  p.  34,  we  described  the  ordinary  hot-bed, 
with  its  plank  frame  to  support  the  sash.  This 
may  be  used,  with  a  bed  of  fermenting  manure, 
to  accelerate  growth,  by  the  artificial  heat  it 
affords ;  or  the  frame  and  glass  may  be  used, 
without  the  heating  material,  when  it  forms 
what  is  called  a  cold  pit.  By  use  of  a  cold  pit, 
seedlings  may  be  advanced  very  materially,  as 
the  heat  of  the  sun,  received  upon  the  soil  w'itli- 
in  it  during  the  day,  is  prevented  from  passing 
OS’  during  the  night,  and  thus  the  average  tem¬ 
perature  greatly  increased.  Those  to  whom  the 
expense  is  no  object,  will  have  regular  hot-bed 
sash,  %vith  a  strong  plank  frame;  but  tliere  are 
many  who,  not  being  able  to  afford  these,  would 
be  glad  of  a  cheap  substitute.  Any  one  who 
can  pick  up  a  few  old  window-sashes  can  have 
a  tolerable  cold  frame,  or  hot-bed,  with  but  little 
cost.  In  tlie  Agriculturist  for  December  last,  we 
gave  an  illustration,  showing  how  channels,  to 
cany  off  water,  could  be  cut  in  the  frames  and 
crossbars  of  a  window  sash,  when  used  for 
garden  purposes.  The  sash  being  procured,  a 
frame  for  it  may  be  built  up  of  turf,  which,  if 
the  sod  is  good,  will  not  only  be  durable,  but 
will  keep  out  frost  better  than  a  wooden  frame. 
The  size  of  such  a  frame  will  depend  upon  the 
number  of  sash  at  command,  and  the  uses  to 
which  it  is  to  be  put.  For  a  simple  cold  frame, 
to  get  cabbage  and  tomato  plants  earlier  than 
they  could  be  had  in  the  open  ground,  a  frame 
of  sods  large  enough  to  accommodate  the  sash 
may  be  built,  the  pieces  six  inches  wide,  neatly 
laid  up,  forming  an  enclosure,  the  walls  of  wdiich 
shall  be  nine  inches  high  in  front  and  eighteen 
inches  at  rear,  the  front  being  to’wards  the 
south.  The  turf  and  sash  being  at  band,  the 
whole  can  be  made  in  a  short  time.  The  frame 
should  he  placed  on  a  well  drained  place,  and 
on  I'ich  soil.  The  earth  being  well  spaded  and 
raked,  the  sashes  are  to  be  put  on,  and  covered 
in  the  afternoon,  by  means  of  board  shutters, 
sti’aw  or  other  mats,  and  uncovered  in  the 
morning.  The  soil  will,  in  a  few  days,  become 
warm  enough  to  receive  the  seeds ;  and  young 
plants,  ready  for  transplanting,  may  be  had  some 
weeks  in  advance  of  those  raised  in  the  open 
ground.  It  will,  however,  generally  be  better 
to  make  a  more  permanent  structure  than  the 
one  just  described,  one  which  will  answer  for 
protecting  half  hardy  plants  during  the  winter, 
as  well  as  for  starting  seeds  in  spring.  As 
before,  the  size  will  depend  upon  that  of  the 
sash,  and  it  will  be  all  the  more  satisfactory  if 
long  sash,  such  as  is  made  for  hot-beds,  can  be 
had.  To  make  a  pit ;  after  having  determined 
upon  its  size,  drive  stakes  at  the  corners,  exca¬ 
vate  the  earth  to  the  depth  of  a  foot,  use  sods 
nine  inches  in  width,  and  lay  them  up  with 
care,  observing  to  “break  joints”  at  the  corners. 
The  walls  may  be  high  enough  to  give  an  inside 
depth  of  two  feet  at  front  and  three  feet  at  the 
rear.  The  walls  should  be  neatly  trimmed,  and 
if  a  coping  of  boards  is  placed  upon  the  top, 
the  structure  will  be  all  the  more  durable. 
Roses,  cabbages,  and  cauliflowers  may  be  win¬ 
tered  in  a  pit  of  this  kind,  and  in  spring  it  may 
be  converted  into  a  hot-bed,  by  nearly  filling  it 
with  fermenting  manure,  upon  which  is  placed 
a  layer  of  six  inches  of  soil  to  receive  the  seeds. 


The  Chinese  Wistaria. —  ( Wistaria  Sinensis.) 


Those  who  live  in  cities,  or  in  those  commu¬ 
nities  where  horticulture  has  made  some  pro¬ 
gress,  may  think  we  are  occupying  space  use¬ 
lessly  in  figuring  and  describing  so  old  and 
well  known  plant  as  the  Chinese  Wistaria.  Al¬ 
though  it  has  been  so  long  in  cultivation,  for 
some  reason  or  other  it  has  become  less  wide¬ 
ly  disseminated  than  one  would  suppose,  and  it 
has  so  much  of  beauty  to  recommend  it,  and  is 
so  easy  to  cultivate,  that  we  wish  it  to  be  more 
generally  introduced.  lu  older  books  it  is  called 
Glycine^  but  Nuttall  found  it  to  be  different  from 
that  genus,  and  he  gave  it  a  new  name,  and 


dedicated  it  to  the  late 
Dr.  Wistar,  of  Philadel¬ 
phia.  The  vine  is  a  rap¬ 
id  grower,  and  with  a 
little  aid  will  climb  al¬ 
most  anywliere.  We 
know  of  a  vine  in  New- 
York  wliicli  readies  to 
the  chimneys  of  a  tliree- 
story  liouse.  The  flow¬ 
ers  are  borne  in  tiie 
greatest  pi’ofiision  in 
May,  before  the  leaves 
are  full}^  developed. 
They  hang  in  large 
clusters,  and  arc  very 
much  in  appearance 
like  those  of  the  Locust, 
except  that  the;)"  are  of  a 
fine  light  purple.  There 
are  a  number  of  old 
vines  in  New-York  Cit}' 
worth  going  far  to  see, 
when  in  bloom.  The 
engraving  shows  the 
shape  of  the  flower.s  and 
young  leaves.  It  will 
be  recognized  as  belong¬ 
ing  to  the  Leguminosce, 
wbicli 

includes  the  Locusts, 
Laburnum,  and  many 
other  ornamental  trees 
and  shrubs.  Though 
beautiful  under  any  cir¬ 
cumstances,  it  shows  at 
its  best  when  trained 
horizontally,  as  along 
the  edge  of  a  balcony 
or  upon  a  horizontal 
trellis.  It  is  well  adapt¬ 
ed  for  training  to  pillars. 
If  allowed  to  run  up  a 
support  of  red  cedar,  up¬ 
on  which  a  foot  or  two 
of  the  limbs  remain,  the 
effect  is  very  fine. 
Though  disposed  to 
ramble,  it  bears  severe 
checking;  we  liave  seen 
it  grown  to  a  stake  6  or 
8  feet  high,  and  kept 
closely  pinched,  show¬ 
ing  a  mass  of  flowers 
from  top  to  bottom. 

The  plant  was  carried 
from  China  to  England 
about  fifty  years  ago, 
and  was  for  some  time 
treated  as  a  greenhouse 
plant.  It  proves  per¬ 
fectly  hardy  in  the  cli¬ 
mate  of  New-York  and  Southern  New-Eng- 
land.  In  those  localities  where  the  winters  are 
very  severe,  it  will  be  necessary  to  protect  it ; 
in  this  case  it*febould  be  trained  in  such  a  man¬ 
ner  that  it  can  be  taken  from  its  support  and 
laid  down  and  covered  with  a  few  inches  of 
earth.  It  grows  readily  from  layers  and  from 
cuttings.  Plants  are  sold  at  the  nurseries  at 
about  fifty  cents  each.  A  white  variety  has  been 
recently  introduced,  but  is  rather  rare  as  yet. 
It  has  long  clusters  of  pure  white  flowers,  and 
will,  in  time,  become  very  popular.  Soma 
other  varieties  are  mentioned  in  the  catalogues, 
A  native  species,  Wistaria  frutescens,  is  found  in 
Illinois,  Virginia,  and  southward.  This  is  also 


84 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[March, 


kept  by  the  nursciyiuen,  and,  though  not  so 
showy  as  the  Chinese,  is  worthy  of  more  notice 
than  it  has  received.  It  has  sliorter  and  compact 
clusters,  aud  often  flowei's  twice  in  the  season. 


Early  Bearing  Apples. 


To  persons  just  planting  orcliarifs,  especially 
in  a  new  countiy,  those  kinds  which  yield  fruit 
soonest  after  planting,  are  very  desirable.  We 
note  the  following: — Kesioich  Codling:  This  is 
not  a  first-rate  apple  for  dessert,  but  is  excellent 
for  pies,  and  is  one  of  the  earliest  bearers  known. 
Tender,  juicy,  sour,  of  medium  size,  ripe  in 
August  and  September. — Sops  of  Wine :  A  good 
apple,  of  middle  size,  dark  crimson,  an  abund¬ 
ant  bearer,  ripe  in  September. — Spice  Sweet: 
Large,  pale  j^ellow,  sweet,  tender,  good  for 
eating  or  baking,  profuse  bearer.  September. — 
Drop  iVOr,  or  Cloth  of  Gold:  Large,  yellow, 
sweet,  with  a  sub-acid  flavor.  Early  and  abund¬ 
ant  yield.  September  and  October.  To  these 
we  may  add  the  Early  Harvest,  excellent  for 
cooking,  and,  when  fully  ripe,  for  eating.  All 
these  are  not  only  earl}^  bearers,  but  good,  sub¬ 
stantial  fruit,  worthy  of  a  place  in  the  orchard. 

• - -^-4 - ^  Wa  »  ^ 

Experience  with  a  Cold  Grapery. 

The  following  description  of  the  erection  and 
working  of  a  cold  grapery,  by  Mr.  Aaron  Low, 
of  Esse.x,  Mass.,  will  be  interesting  to  those 
who  wish  to  erect  structures  of  this  kind.  The 
cost  of  the  house,  based  upon  the  price  of  ma¬ 
terials  and  labor,  in  1862,  was  $160,  but  this 
was  at  a  time  when  prices  were  much  lower 
than  at  present.  Though  a  house  like  the 
one  here  described  would  doubtless  give  paying 
^returns,  the  border  is  too  small  for  the  best 
results.  Our  correspondent  gives  a  sketch  of 
il.e  routine  of  the  care  of  the  house  for  three 
years,  but  as  the  whole  article  is  rather  long,  we 
give,  at  this  time,  his  manner  of  building  his 
liouse,  and  the  operations  of  the  first  year, 
reserving  the  remainder  of  the  account  for 
another  month: 

“After  selecting  the  spot,  and  deciding  that 
my  house  should  be  50  feet  long,  by  13  feet  wide, 
I  took  out  the  soil  to  the  depth  of  two  feet,  with 
a  gradual  slope  from  the  back  to  the  front  of 
the  pit.  I  then  filled  one  foot  in  depth  with 
small  stones,  and  on  them  a  covering  of  leather 
chips  and  clam  shells,  to  keep  the  soil  of  the 
borders  from  working  down  and  obstructing 
the  drainage.  A  two-inch  tile  drain  in  each 
corner,  and  one  in  the  middle  of  the  front  side 
of  the  pit,  running  to  an  outlet  30  or  40  feet 
from  the  house,  render  the  drainage  complete. 

The  House. — For  the  back  of  the  house,  9 
feet  high,  stout  cedar  posts  14  feet  long, 
are  set  about  8  feet  apart,  and  5  feet  in  the 
ground,  so  as  to  be  sure  to  be  out  of  the  influ¬ 
ence  of  frost.  The  4  by  0-inch  plate  is  spiked 
on  to  the  head  of  each  post.  Girts,  2  by  3 
inches,  are  placed  8  feet  apart,  on  the  back  side, 
and  let  in  with  a  shoulder,  and  spiked  on  to 
each  post.  The  covering  consjjts  of  hemlock 
boards,  covered  with  spruce  clapboards;  the 
boards  running  down  to  the  bottom  of  the  pit, 
the  clapboards  extending  to  the  ground  level. 

The  front  is  3  feet  high  ffom  the  ground  level, 
and  has  6  glass  windows,  74  feet  long,  and  2 
feet  wide.  They  are  made  of  2-inch  plank,  for 
the  outside  frame,  with  an  incli  st3de  running 
lengthwise,  taking  two  lights  in  width,  of  8  by 
10  glass.  In  other  respects,  the  front  is  built 
the  same  as  the  back  side. 

The  ends  are  built  the  same,  except  instead  of 


the  cedar  posts,  spruce  joists,  3  inches  by  4,  are 
framed  into  a  sili  at  the  bottom  of  the  pit  and 
the  end  rafters  of  the  roof.  There  is  a  door  in 
each  end.  The  one  next  the  street  is  part  glass, 
the  Other  is  a  common  board  door. 

The  rafters  are  of  white  pine,  15  feet  long,  2  by 
6  inches,  placed  34  feet  apart,  and  matched  to 
front  aud  back  plates  with  a  shoulder,  and  bolted 
on.  Purlins,  2  inches  by  2,  are  mortised  into  each 
rafter,  34  feet  apart.  They  extend  through  14 
inches,  and  are  fastened  by  a  strong  oak  pin,  on 
the  opposite  side.  Four  stiles,  1  inch  thick,  by 
2  deep,  are  placed  between  each  pair  of  rafters, 
each  resting  upon  the  purlins,  being  let  in  with 
a  4  inch  gain,  and  fixstened  in  place  by  a  nail. 
There  are  5  rows  of  8  by  10  glass  to  each  bay. 
All  the  rafters  and  stiles  are  ploughed  I  of  an 
inch  deep,  and  the  glass,  instead  of  lapping,  is 
slid  up  and  butted,  one  pane  against  the  other. 
This  is  much  more  convenient  than  the  old 
method,  and,  where  the  glass  is  true,  it  will  not 
leak  enough  to  do  any  hurt.  To  support  the 
vines,  white  oak  treenails,  10  inches  long,  are 
driven  into  inch  holes,  bored  in  each  rafter,  3 
feet  apart ;  holes  f  of  an  inch  are  bored  in  the 
loxver  end  of  the  treenails,  through  which  com¬ 
mon  sized  telegraph  wii’e  is  run  lengthwise  of 
the  house.  Mo.  19  wire  runs  parallel  xvith  the 
rafters,  to  fasten  the  bearing  spurs  to.  The 
wires  are  14  inches  from  the  glass. 

The  top  ventilators  are  seven  in  number ;  one 
to  every  other  bay,  and  are  made  2  feet  wide, 
and  46  inches  long,  resting  on  the  rafters  on  tlie 
outside,  being  hung  to  the  casing  of  the  plate 
by  butt  hinges.  They  are  raised  by  a  narrow 
strip  of  board  fastened  by  a  hinge  to  the 
lower  inside  edge  of  the  ventilator,  that  being 
fastened  by  another  hinge,  making  a  loose  joint, 
to  a  strip  of  board  sliding  through  two  grooves 
on  the  back  of  the  house,  and  reaching  down 
low  enough  to  be  convenient  in  opening  them. 
The  front  windows  are  opened  when  bottom 
ventilation  is  w’anted.  There  are  two  tanks, 
holding  about  600  gallons,  one  being  inside,  and 
connected  with  the  outside  one  by  a  lead  pipe. 
The  water  from  the  roof  fills  the  outside  tank, 
and  is  drawn  into  the  other  as  wanted. 

The  Borders. — The  borders  are  wholly  on 
the  inside,  and  were  made  of  the  top  soil  taken 
out  of  the  pit,  mixed  with  pasture  turf  and 
muck  that  had  lain  in  heap  six  months,  with 
the  addition  of  about  a  sixth  part  of  fine  old 
manure,  and  a  small  portion  of  air-slackened 
lime  and  ashes.  The  heap  was  dug  over  and 
made  very  fine,  before  putting  it  in  the  bor¬ 
ders,  which  were  but  3  feet  wide,  and  2  deep. 
The  vines,  34  in  number,  there  being  17  on 
the  front  border,  and  the  same  on  the  back,  were 
one  year  old,  and  were  set  out  on  the  4th  day  of 
May,  3  feet  apart,  and  1  foot  from  the  front  of 
the  house.  They  soon  started  growing,  and  as 
soon  as  they  had  made  2  or  3  inches,  all  but  the 
best  shoot  were  rubbed  off.  The  house  was 
kept  quite  moist,  by  syringing  every  night  with 
water  kept  in  a  shallow  tank,  1  foot  wide,  and 
8  inches  deep,  running  the  length  of  the  house. 
One  great  advantage  in  the  shallow  tank  is,  you 
always  have  water  of  the  same  temperature  as 
the  air  in  the  house,  to  syringe  the  vines  with. 

The  top  ventilators  were  opened  every  fair 
day,  as  soon  as  the  temperature  of  the  house 
commenced  rising,  and  were  kept  open  till  the 
latter  part  of  the  afternoon,  thereby  letting  the 
temperature  rise  and  fall  gradually.  The  vines 
grew  rapidly,  and  were  trained  carefully  to  the 
wires,  until  they  had  grown  the  length  of  the 
rafters,  when,  about  the  1st  of  September,  they 
were  stopped,  to  hasten  the  ripening  of  the 
cane,  for  next  year’s  fruiting.  The  borders  were 


watered  once  a  week,  till  September,  when  it 
was  gradually  withheld,  and  the  front  ventilators 
opened  dailj’’,  to  give  a  free  circulation  of  air.” 

9  After  the  leaves  had  fallen  in  November,  the 
vines  were  taken  down,  and  the  strongest  cut 
back  to  5  feet,  the  weaker  to  2  feet.  Thej"  wei  e 
then  laid  down  on  the  borders,  and  covered 
with  forest  leaves  sulficienlly  to  keep  out  the 
frost,  and  remained  undisturbed  till  spring.  The 
house  was  kept  cool  in  the  winter  bj'  leaving 
the  doors  open  in  fair  weather. 


A  Country  Parson  on  the  Chinese  Winter 
Radish,  and  on  the  Value  of  a  Garden. 

The  following,  from  a  “New-York  Dominic.” 
who  lives  in  a  village  near  this  cilj’,  is  given 
as  a  specimen  of  manj’’  letters  we  receive  upon 
the  success  of  small  gardens  and  the  pleasiue 
derived  from  them.  The  Radish,  which  he  docs 
not  too  highly  praise,  was  figured  and  described 
in  September  last.  The  seed  is  sown  in  August 
and  September: — “I  am  a  kind  of  ‘Country 
Parson,’  and  take  great  pleasure  in  cultivating  a 
small  garden.  I  find  it  a  source  of  recreation 
and  of  health,  amid  other  and  weightier  labors. 
On  the  recommendation  of  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist,  I  procured,  last  summer,  a  package  of  the 
new  Rose-colored  Chinese  Radish,  for  fall  and 
winter  use.  They  have  proved  so  good,  and  I 
have  had  such  complete  success  in  keeping  them, 
that  I  want  to  tell  jmu  about  them.  This  radish 
is  so  much  more  sweet  and  tender  than  the  old 
Black  and  AVhite  Spanish  sorts,  that  I  am  sure 
no  one  will  cultivate  either  of  the  latter  after  ho 
has  tried  the  forixxer.  My  family  have  enjoyed 
them  as  a  real  luxury.  They  are  beautiful  to 
look  upon,  and  still  better  to  the  taste.  As  a 
nexv  one  is  cut  open,  revealing  its  beautiful  and 
juicy  surface,  the  frequent  exclamation  is, 
‘What  an  excellent  radish  !’  I  had  a  coiqxle  of 
quite  old  persons,  over  seventy  j-ears  of  age, 
staying  with  me.  One  of  them  without  a  tooth 
in  her  head,  scraped  and  ate  them  with  a 
relish  that  would  have  done  you  good  to  see. 

“Let  me  tell  you  of  the  plan  that  I  hit  upon 
to  keep  them  for  winter  use.  I  have  learned  so 
many  stood  things  from  the  Agriculturist,  that  J 
want  to  tell  you  this  in  return.  I  first  dug  a  hole 
about  two  feet  deep,  and  wide  enough  to  hold 
upright  a  common  flour  barrel.  I  then  took  an 
old  barrel,  with  both  the  head  and  bottom  out, 
and  stood  it  in  the  hole.  I  ptxt  mj^  radishes  into 
the  barrel,  on  the  ground,  and  banked  up 
the  barrel,  on  the  outside,  about  to  the  top.  I 
pushed  a  small  bundle  of  straw  into  tlie  barrel, 
and  down  upon  the  radishes,  and  then  laid  an 
old  door  over  the  top  of  the  barrel,  to  keep  out 
the  rain  aud  snow.  When  wishing  to  get  the 
radishes,  we  have  only  to  push  the  hand  down 
between  the  straw  and  the  side  of  the  barrel. 
We  are  now  in  the  second  week  of  Januaiy, 
and  have  had  some  severe  freezing  weather.  1 
have  not  found  one  frozen,  and  they  are  as  fresh, 
and  crisp>,  and  sweet,  as  xvhen  first  pulled. 

“My  whole  lot,  with  about  one  quarter  of  it 
occupied  by  the  house,  is  75  feet  by  125  feet.  I 
have  a  beautiful  bed  of  Asparagus  aud  anotlior 
of  Strawberries,  of  my  own  planting;  about 
twenty  Grape  vines,  of  seven  different  sorts ; 
Raspberries,  Blackberries,  Currants,  Pea  is. 
Cherries,  Peaches,  almost  all  of  ny  own  i)l:int- 
ing  in  less  than  six  years  past.  Aud  besides 
these,  I  manage  to  get  a  good  many  vegetables 
out  of  my  garden  in  the  spring  and  summer. 
I  have  learned  many  very  important  things  from 
my  garden.  I  have  had  pleasure  and  enjoyment 
from  it,  aud  have,  I  trust,  neglected  no  duty  to 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


85 


others  from  alleiid’mg  to  it.  Perhaps  I  ought  to 
say  that  I  live  in  a  parsonage,  and  so  do  not 
know  how  long  It  may  be  mine.  But  may  not 
we  dominies  practice  wh.at  we  preach  to  our 
people,— to  plant  and  sow  good  seed  for  those 
who  arc  to  come  after  us?” 


Grape  Planting  this  Spring. 


If  the  “grape  mania”  did  not  culminate  last 
autumn,  it  will  certainly  do  so  this  spring ;  and 
the  only  limits  to  the  amount  of  planting  will 
be  the  ability  of  propagators  of  approved  sorts 
to  supply  plants.  Many  vines  are  already  set 
and  many  more  will  be,  and  it  is  all  well.  We 
wish  every  farmer,  and  every  one  who  has  even 
a  good  sized  yard,  to  have  grapes  enough  for  his^ 
family,  and  some  to  give  to  his  less  fortunate 
neighbors.  Grapes  in  many  localities  are  grown 
not  only  at  a  profit,  but  the  land  devoted  to  them 
gives  better  returns  than  any  other  crop  that 
could  be  raised  upon  it.  Knowing  of  these 
successes  in  grape  culture,  several  have  asked 
our  advice  about  entering  into  it  largely  as  an 
investment.  Did  we  look  only  at  the  paying 
vineyards,  there  would  be  no  hesitation  in  en¬ 
couraging  these  enterprises,  but  recollecting 
more  than  one  melancholy  failure,  and  having 
last  summer  seen  the  mowers  among  the  posts 
of  an  abandoned  vineyard,  we  are  obliged  to 
use  a  word  of  caution.  Grape  growing  or  any 
other  culture,  is  a  business  to  be  learned,  and  we 
would  no  more  advise  one  without  experience 
to  go  into  this,  than  we  would  counsel  him  to 
open  a  store  for  the  sale  of  books,  hats  or  any 
other  commodity,  without  first  learning  the 
ways  of  the  trade.  One  of  our  Ohio  friends  has 
a  vineyard,  which,  according  to  all  figuring, 
should  have  given  this  year  a  profitable  crop, 
but  it  did  not  yield  a  bunch.  It  is  easy  to  say 
what  a  vine  ought  to  do  the  third  year  after 
planting,  but  sometimes  it  won’t  do  it.  Capital  is 
not  all  that  is  required  for  success  in  a  vineyard. 
One  great  obstacle  is  the  difficulty  of  procuring 
skilled  labor ;  while  unfavorable  seasons,  insect 
enemies,  rot  and  mildew  often  render  the  most 
carfully  tended  vineyard  unproductive.  “But 
shall  we  not  plant  vines?”  Yes,  by  all  means. 
He  w’ho  has  ten,  and  finds  them  profitable,  will 
not  need  to  be  persuaded  to  plant  fifty,  and  he 
who  already  has  his  acres  will  know  whether  it 
will  pay  to  double  their  number.  To  those  wiio 
have  no  vines  we  say  plant  five,  ten  or  twenty, 
or  even  one,  if  you  can  do  no  better.  These  will 
show  the  adaptability  of  location  and  will  serve 
far  better  to  gain  experience  upon,  than  five  or 
ten  acres  at  the  start.  We  hope  to  see  grapes 
the  cheapest  of  fruits,  but  it  will  not  promote 
this  end  to  advise  those  who  have  never  grown 
vines,  to  plant  extensive  vineyards  at  once. 

With  regard  to  soil,  while  it  seems  to  be  set¬ 
tled  that  the  grape  will  grow  on  any  good  soil, 
there  is  still  much  discussion  as  to  w'hether  cer¬ 
tain  varieties  do  best  on  light  or  heavy  lands. 
While  this  subject  still  remains  unsettled,  there 
is  one  point  upon  which  all  are  agreed,  viz., 
that  whatever  the  nature  of  the  soil,  it  must  be, 
naturally  or  artificially,  well  drained.  The  soil 
should,  of  course,  be  in  good  condition  as  to 
-  fertility,  and  it  must  be  worked  by  the  spade  or 
plow  to  the  depth  of  18  or  20  inches.  Our 
views,  as  to  selection  of  varieties,  have  already 
been  given.  While  we  regard  the  Delaware  as 
the  best  grape  which  has  been  largely  tested, 
tuid  the  hardiness  of  which  has  been  thoroughly 
proved,  its  slow  grow’th,  and  the  care  it  requires, 
have  not  given  it  that  popularity  it  will  in  time 
attain.  The  Concord  has  been  so  often  styled 


“  the  grape  for  the  million,”  tliat  the  phrase  has 
become  hackneyed.  It  seems  to  be  better 
adapted  to  general  culture,  and  such  treatment 
as  nine  out  of  ten  will  give  their  vines,  than 
any  other  sort;  consequently  wm  have  advised 
the  Concord,  if  dependence  is  to  be  placed  upon 
a  single  sort.  It  is  hoped,  however,  that  none 
will  be  contented  with  one  single  kind,  but  that 
the  taste  of  the  readers  of  the  Agriculturist  will 
lead  them  to  plant  several  of  the  established 
varieties.  Where  the  Catawba  will  perfect 
itself,  this  favorite  variety  will  not  be  easily 
supplanted  by  any  other.  At  the  winter  meet¬ 
ing  of  the  Fruit-Growers’  Society  of  Western 
New'-York,  held  in  January  last,  a  vote  wars 
taken  upon  the  best  grapes  for  a  succession, 
which  we  publish  as  showing  the  estimation  in 
w'hich  the  different  kinds  are  held  by  the  horti¬ 
culturists  of  that  part  of  the  country.  Thirty-one 
members  voted,  and  the  result  w'as  as  follows: 

Delaware, . SOiRebecca, . 21 

Diana, . 2G|Concord, . 14 

Isabella,  . 25i'Creveling, . 12 

Hartford  Prolific, _ 23|Catawba, .  0 

Iona,  Perkins,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  To  Kalon, 
and  Northern  Muscadine,  each  2  votes;  and 
Lydia,  Adriondac,  and  Israella,  each  1  vote. 


Rogers’  Hybrid  Grapes. 


In  the  grape  notes  of  last  year,  after  testing 
these  varieties  pretty  thoroughly,  w'e  stated  that 
W’e  had  not  seen  a  first  class  grape  among  them. 
By  this  it  was  meant  that  none  of  them,  in  our 
estimation,  were  equal  to  a  Delaw’are,  Iona,  Al¬ 
len’s  Hybrid,  Diana,  or  even  a  perfect  Cataw'ba. 
Some  have  thought  that  the  opinion  above  quo¬ 
ted  did  not  do  justice  to  these  new  candidates 
for  public  favor.  So  far  from  wishing  to  do 
injustice  to  these  or  any  other  new  grapes,  yva 
should  be  happy  to  be  able  to  say  that  the  whole 
fifty  w'ere  each  and  every  one  an  improvement 
on  any  other  grape  now  in  cultivation,  but  so  far 
our  experience  wdth  them  does  not  warrant  it. 
What  has  ali'eady  been  said  was  not  the  record 
of  the  opinion  of  one  individual  upon  a  sin¬ 
gle  specimen,  but  a  deliberate  judgement  made 
up  after  testing  them  in  company  with  a  num¬ 
ber  of  experienced  horticulturists,  at  different 
times,  both  in  the  vineyard  and  in  the  office. 
Another  season  we  hope  to  make  an  equally 
careful  examination  of  them,  and  shall  be  glad 
if  we  are  able  to  change  our  opinion.  Those 
who  think  our  judgement  unfair  in  this  mat¬ 
ter  are  referred  to  the  following  extract  from 
tlie  proceedings  of  the  Fruit  Growers’  Society 
of  Western  New  York,  held  in  January  last. 
We  quote  from  the  Country  Gentleman :  “Rog¬ 
ers’  Hybrids  had  been  fruited  by  several,  but 
they  were  not  highly  commended.  President 
Barry  doubted  if  any  would  be  superior  to  the 
Concord.  In  reply  to  an  inquiry,  he  said  it  was 
his  opinion  that  the  Rogers’  grapes  were  only 
seedlings  of  the  Fox,  and  not  hybrids.  C.  L. 
Hoag,  of  Lockport,  had  fruited  them  for  two 
years,  and  he  thought  very  highly  of  some  of 
them — while  all  are  strong  growers.” — The 
following  testimony  in  the  case,  is  from  the 
Report  of  the  Fruit  Committee  of  the  Massa¬ 
chusetts  Horticultural  Society,  for  1864 : 

“  Several  of  Rogers’  Hybrids  have  been  seen 
on  our  tables,  such  as  Nos.  1,  4,  15, 19,  43,  and 
others,  but  your  Committee  do  not  feel  disposed 
to  give  a  decided  opinion  on  the  merits  of  any 
of  these.  It  has  already  been  said,  that  some  of 
these  varieties  did  not  ripen  early  enough  to  be 
valuable ;  and  it  may  be  added,  that,  as  tested 
by  us,  they  were  found  to  have  a  hard  pulp,  and 
to  be  of  inferior  quality,  except  No.  4,  a  black 


grape,  of  fair  quality,  which  ripened  well ;  but 
as  the  specimens  we  have  tried  have  been  mostly 
produced  on  young  vines,  it  is  unfair  to  fully 
decide  upon  their  merits.  It  would  be  strange, 
indeed,  if,  among  so  many,  there  were  not  some 
good  ones.  We  would,  however,  advise  the 
public  to  plant  rather  sparingly  of  all  the  num¬ 
bers  until  they  have  been  more  fully  proved.” 

- »  I  — - - 

To  Manage  Evergreen  Hedges. 


The  ground  being  well  prepared  by  digging, 
or  plowing  and  working  it  into  fine  tilth,  the 
plants,  if  of  arbor  vitae,  or  hemlock,  not  more 
than  eighteen  inches  or  two  feet  high,  should  be 
Set  two,  or  two  and  a  half  feet,  apart.  Norway 
Spruce  may  be  three  feet  high,  and  set  three 
feet  apart.  Cut  out  the  leading  shoots,  so  as  to 
make  them  bushy  at  the  base.  Mulch  the  ground 
with  old  Straw  or  leaves,  or  spent  tan  bark,  and 
the  trees  will  take  care  of  themselves  for  the 
first  year.— In  spring  of  second  year,  prune  off 
the  strongest  leading  shoots  on  every  side,  but 
have  the  lower  branches  longer  than  the  upper. 
This  pruning  should  not  be  done  until  after 
severe  frosts  are  past,  say  the  middle  of  April. 
If  grass  or  wmeds  have  encroached  upon  the 
line  of  the  hedge,  clean  them  out,  and  keep  the 
ground  well  worked  through  the  summei', 
though  without  disturbing  the  roots.  In  the 
autumn,  cover  the  soil  around  the  plants  with 
a  light  dressing  of  old  manure.  Every  spring, 
after  this,  prune  the  hedge  into  shape,  keeping 
the  base  about  four  feet  wide,  and  thence 
sloping  up  to  the  top,  which  should  not  be 
thicker  than  one  foot,  if  of  Spruce,  or  six 
inches,  if  of  arbor-vitas  or  hemlock. 

After  the  hedge  has  nearly  reached  its  desired 
height,  its  growth  should  be  checked  by  sum¬ 
mer  pruning.  In  July  or  August,  cut  back  all 
the  strong  growth  to  the  desired  point.  This 
summer  pruning  must  now  be  kept  up  from 
year  to  year.  As  a  further  check  to  strong 
growth,  let  the  grass  grow  around  to  the 
stems  of  the  plants,  and  withhold  all  manure. 

Let  it  always  be  borne  in  mind,  that  the  great 
secret  in  making  a  good  hedge  is,  to  start  it  well 
with  a  strong,  bushy  base,  and  then  to  keep  it 
m  shape  by  pruning  the  upper  branches  shorter 
than  the  lower.  If  the  lower  branches  are  al¬ 
lowed  to  be  overhung  at  all  by  the  upper,  they 
are  then  deprived  of  -the  sunlight,  rain  and  dew. 
The  reason  why  evergreens  in  the  forest  lose 
their  lower  branches,  is  because  they  are  over¬ 
shadowed.  In  the  open  meadow,  or  pasture, 
the  branches  grow  as  low  as  the  “browsing 
line;”  and  in  the  lawn,  where  cattle  do  not 
come,  and  where  the  axe  is  kept  awajq  the 
branches  spread  themselves  luxuriantl}^  upon 
the  grass.  Lank,  lean,  bottomless  hedges,  al¬ 
ways  proclaim  the  neglect  of  their  owners. 
Let  the  rules  wm  have  given  be  observed,  and 
good,  useful,  handsome  hedges  of  hemlock  and 
other  evergreens  will  become  more  common. 
- - - - 

Doctoring  Pear  Trees. — At  the  recent 
meeting  of  the  Ohio  Pomological  Society,  Dr. 
Kirkland  expressed  strong  confidence  that  the 
use  of  a  solution  of  copperas  upon  the  leaves 
and  bark,  and  the  application  of  blacksmiths’ 
sweepings  to  the  roots  of  pear  trees  would  be 
found  a  complete  remedy  for  the  firi  -bligliL 
On  the  other  hand  an  intelligent  friend  Oi  ours 
says  that  he  has  faithfully  doctored  his  trees 
with  iron  but  has  failed  to  see  any  benefit. 
Let  us  have  the  experience  of  others,  whether 
a  success  or  failure.  The  subject  is  one  of 
considerable  importance  to  all  fruit  growers. 


8G 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[March, 


The 


Climbing  Fumitory  or  Alleghany 

Vine. — {Adlumia  cirrhosa.) 


In  most  sections  of  the  country,  but  especially 
at  tlie  AVest,  there  is  found  growing  in  shady 
.places  a  vine  w'hich,  by  its  delicacy  and  grace, 
’attracts  the  attention  of  the  lovers  of  wild 
flowers.  Its  merits  have  long  since  given  it  a 
place  in  our  gardens,  and  we  illustrate  it  here 
to  bring  it  to  the  notice  of  cultivators,  as  well 
as  to  answer  several  who  have  enclosed  us  spe¬ 
cimens,  asking  its  name.  The  plant  is  biennial, 
and,  like  others  of  its  class,  is  neglected  by  those 
who  are  impatient  to  have  flowers  the  first  year. 
It  is  a  very  slender  vine,  climbing  by  means  of 
its  tendril-like  leaves.  What  appear  in  the 
drawing  like  several  small  leaves,  are  really 
parts  of  one  much  divided  leaf.  The  flowers, 
of  the  size  and  shape  shown  in  the  engraving, 
are  white,  more  or  less  tinged  w’ith  rose-color, 
and  are  produced  in  great  profusion.  The 
tender  green,  thin  texture,  and  fine  division  of 
the  leaves,  together  with  the  pendent  clusters 
of  delicate  flowers,  give  the  plant  an  airiness 
and  delicacy  possessed  by  few  climbers.  It  be¬ 
longs  to  the  Fumitory  family,  and  the  resem¬ 
blance  its  flowers  bear,  in  shape,  to  those  of  the 
showy  Diccntra,  will  at  onee  indicate  the  two 
to  be  near  relatives.  The  name  Adlumia  was 
given  in  honor  of  Major  Adlum,  a  botanist  of  a 
past  generation.  In  addition  to  the  common 
names  given  at  the  head  of  the  article,  the  plant 
is  sometimes  called  Mountain  Fringe.  On  ac¬ 
count  of  the  delicacy  of  its  foliage,  the  vine  does 
best  in  a  somewhat  shaded  place.  It  climbs  to 
the  hight  of  10  to  15  feet,  and  should  be  pro¬ 
vided  with  a  trellis,  or  support  of  some  kind. 
The  seed  is  sown  in  the  spring,  where  the 
plants  are  to  stand  ;  the  roots  need  no  protec¬ 
tion  through  the  following  winter.  Sometimes 
the  r'iants  bloom  the  first  year.  In  looking  over 
the  catalogues  for  the  price  of  seeds,  we  find 
that  B.  K.  Bliss,  of  Springfield,  Mass.,  is  the 
only  one  who  announces  it,  at  10  cts.  per  paper. 


ElINGS  ought  to  be  Kings  in  all  things. 


Trees  upon  Prairies* 

A  correspondent  in  Il¬ 
linois  writes:  “You 
can  not  do  your  west¬ 
ern  prairie  readers  so 
great  a  kindness  as  to 
induce  them  this  coming 
spring  to  take  hold  of 
tree-planting  in  earnest^ 
with  w’hatever  of  seeds, 
cuttings  or  trees  most 
convenient.”  This  sug¬ 
gestion  is  a  timely  one, 
and  although  the  matter 
has  been  advocated  by 
us  in  former  years,  the 
subject  is  one  that  can 
not  be  too  frequently  nor 
too  strongly  presented. 
Those  who  live  in  the 
tree-less  parts  of  the 
country  need  not  be 
told  how  neeessary  are 
trees  for  shelter,  timber 
and  fuel.  Even  those 
who  dwell  in  regions 
formerly  well  wooded, 
find  that  the  forests  are 
so  rapidly  disappearing 
that  it  is  time  some  steps 
were  taken  to  replace 
them.  AVith  those  who  wish  to  plant  trees,  the 
questions  of  first  importance  are:  what  kinds 
shall  I  plant,  and  how  shall  I  get  them  ? 
Leaving  the  AVhite  AVillow,  which  is  discussed 
in  another  column,  out  of  the  question,  the  two 
trees  which  seem  best  adapted  by  the  rapidity  of 
their  growth  and  value  of  their  timber,  are  the 
Black  AValnut  {Juglans  nigra),  and  Silver  Maple 
{Acer  dasycarpum).  The  seeds  of  the  former  are  to 
be  planted  where  they  are  to  remain,  but  the  Ma¬ 
ple  may  be  raised  in  nursery  rows  and  trans¬ 
planted.  The  Peach,  is  highly  recommended 
to  grow  for  fuel  even  where  it  will  not  produee 
fruit,  and  would  doubtless  be  found  valuable ; 
it  has  the  advantage  of  rapid  grow'th  and 
the  seeds  are  easily  obtainable.  Black  Cherry, 
Birches,  and  Larches  are  all  hardy  and  desira¬ 
ble.  The  Cucumber-tree  {Magnolia  acuminata), 
AVhite-wood,  Osage  Orange,  Honey  Locust, 
Chestnut  and  deciduous  Cypress,  are  all  suited 
to  mild  climates.  All  the  above  may  be  raised 
from  seed.  The  AVhite  and  other  AVillows  grow 
readily  from  cuttings,  as  do  the  Cottonwood 
and  other  Poplars.  The  Evergreens  are  of 
rather  slow  growth,  but  they  should  not  be  neg¬ 
lected  on  that  aecount.  The  Norway  Spruee 
is  among  the  most  rapid  growers  and  valuable 
for  its  hardiness.  The  Red  Cedar,  Arbor  Vitm, 
and  AVhite  Pine  are  all  desirable  evergreens. 

AVhile  our  AVestern  friends  advocate  the  Cot¬ 
tonwood,  which  is  as  nearly  worthless  as  a  tree 
can  be,  they  quite  ignore  the  Ailanthus,  which 
has  merits  enough  to  outweigh  its  faults.  It 
will  grow  readily  from  seeds,  and  live  where 
another  tree  would  starve.  Give  the  seed  only 
a  little  dust  to  cover  it,  and  it  will  grow.  It  is 
especially  adapted  to  poor  soils,  and  wull  grow 
with  great  vigor  in  rich  ones.  So  abundantly 
does  it  spring  up  between  the  bricks  and  pave¬ 
ments  in  New-York  City,  whenever  anything 
shelters  it  from  injury,  that  it  is  estimated  that, 
should  the  city  become  suddenly  depopulated 
by  a  pestilence,  its  site  would,  in  a  few  years, 
become  an  impenetrable  thicket  of  Ailanthus 
trees.  The  wood  makes  fair  fuel,  when  well 
seasoned,  and  its  timber  would  doubtless  be 


servicable  in  many  ways,  tliough  statistics  are 
wanting  concerning  its  dui'ability.  The  cliief 
objections  to  it  are  the  unpleasant  odor  giv¬ 
en  off  in  flowering  time,  its  tendency  to  suck¬ 
er,  its  lateness  in  pushing  its  leaves,  and  its 
naked  look  in  winter.  Although  all  these,  esi)e- 
cially  the  first,  have  weight  when  the  tree  is 
used  merely  for  ornament,  they,  amount  to  but 
little  "where  utility  is  the  main  consideration. 

Many  others  might  be  added  to  the  list,  but 
those  already  named  inelude  the  more  available 
ones,  and  the  question  now  is :  how  to  begin 
The  easiest  way  will  be  to  procure  a  stock  ol 
young  trees  from  the  nursery,  and  perhaps  thi,« 
is  generally  the  safest  "way  with  evergreens,  Vut 
most  persons  will  find  it  inconvenient  and  ex¬ 
pensive  to  buy  their  stock  and  must  raisv  it. 
Mr.  F.  K.  Phoenix,  a  well  knowm  Illinois  nu”se- 
ryman,  takes  so  much  interest  in  tree  plantiug, 
that  he  devotes  the  cover  of  his  Catalogue  to  an 
essay  on  the  subject.  Although  in  the  trade,  he 
says:  “You  need  not  call  upon  the  nurserj"- 
men — send  to  some  reliable  friend  in  a  timbered 
region  to  get  you  out  such  seeds,  cuttings  or 
forest  seedlings  as  you  may  require.” 

AVe  repeat,  get  trees  or  seeds  somehow ;  if 
seeds  cannot  be  had  this  spring,  make  it  a  point 
to  find  out  where  fruiting  trees  are,  so  that  they 
can  be  collected  as  they  ripen.  Upon  consult¬ 
ing  the  catalogues  of  seedsmen,  we  find  they 
have  the  seeds  of  Ailanth  is,  several  species  of 
Ash,  Honey-Locust,  Cucumber  Magnolia,  sever¬ 
al  Pines  and  Peach  Pits.  Besides  these  the 
seeds  of  many  of  the  slower-growing  and  more 
ornamental  trees  may  be  had  at  once.  AVe  hope 
to  recur  to  this  subject  at  the  proper  season. 


The  Chinese  Magnolias. 


The  city  gardens  of  New-York — there  are 
gardens  here — are  very  gay  in  spring,  and  they 
owe  much  of  their  beauty  to  two  plants  from  the 
Celestial  Empire.  The  AVistaria  is  the  most 
conspicuous  of  climbers, — noticed  in  another 
article — and  the  Chinese  Magnolias  are  among 
the  most  showy  of  shrubs  or  small  trees.  The 
Magnolia  conspicua,  called  the  Chinese  AVhite 
Magnolia,  or  Yulan,  grows  in  its  native  country 
to  the  hight  of  forty  or  fifty  feet,  and  forms  a 
fine  pyramidal  tree.  As  it  flowers  freely,  "udien 
quite  small,  it  is  more  generally  seen  as  a  shrub 
with  us,  but  there  is ,  a  specimen  upon  the 
grounds  of  Charles  Downing,  Esq.,  at  New¬ 
burgh,  which  is  some  thirty  feet  in  bight.  The 
flowers  appear  in  April,  before  the  leaves  unfold, 
and,  from  their  great  size  and  pure  whiteness, 
give  the  plant  such  a  showy  appearance  that  it 
w’ell  merits  the  specific  name — conspicua.  Each 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


87 


flower  is  four  or  five  inches  long,  and  looks  so 
like  a  white  lilj'^  that  it  is  not  strange  that  the 
Chinese  call  itYulan — or  lily-tree.  Not  only 
•ire  the  flowers  beautiful  from  their  brilliant 
a'hiteness,  but  they  have  a  most  delightful 
fragrance.  The  tree  is  also  a  pleasing  object 
after  the  flowers  are  succeeded  by  the  leaves,  as 
its  foliage  has  a  healthy  and  vigorous  look. 
The  shape  of  the  flowers  and  leaves  is  shown 
in  the  engraving.  The  fruit,  for  the  reason  that 
only  a  portion  of  the  seeds  perfect  themselves, 
is  curiously  contorted  and  variable  in  shape. 
The  tree  will  grow  in  any  good  soil,  and  is  per¬ 
fectly  hardy  at  Newburgh,  and  probably  further 
North.  In  the  nurseries  it  is  propagated  by 
grafting  on  Magnolia  acuminata,  one  of  our 
natives  that  grows  readily  from  layers.  It  may 
also  be  grown  from  seeds,  but  grafted  plants  are 
more  readily  transplanted.  Another  Magnolia, 
much  resembling  the  foregoing,  also  frequently 
cultivated,  is  called  Magnolia  Soulangeana.  It  is 
a  variet}’^  of  M.  conspicua,  and  believed  to  be  a 
cross  between  it  and  a  purple  Japanese  species, 
M.  purpurea.  It  gets  its  name  fi'om  having 
originated  on  the  grounds  of  M.  Soulange 
Bodin,  near  Paris.  The  tree  has  almost  pre¬ 
cisely  the  same  appearance  as  the  other,  but  the 
flowers  are  tinged  with  purple  and  bloom  a 
little  later.  Several  other  varieties  of  J/i  coras^i- 
cua  are  to  be  found  in  the  catalogues,  tlie  tree 
ha^^ng  a  tendency  to  sport  when  raised  from 
the  seed.  The  trees  are  to  be  had  in  all  first- 
class  nurseries  at  about  $1.50  or  $3,  v/e  believe. 

- - - - 

Making  Flowers  Useful.— According  to 
La  Belgique  Horticole,  a  new  culture  has  sprung 
up  near  Nuremberg.  The  flowers  of  the  very 
dark  variety  of  hollyhock,  which  appear  nearly 
black,  are  found  to  contain  coloring  matter  in 
such  quantity  as  to  render  them  valuable  as  a 
dye.  The  flowers  are  sent  to  England  where 
they  are  used  in  dyeing  cotton,  and  the  culture 
is  said  to  be  quite  a  profitable  one  in  Belgium. 


TOE  lE[(DinglEM(D]Lm. 

A  Home-made  Easy-Chair. 


A  subscriber  to  the  Agriculturist  describes  an 
easy  chair  which  almost  any  one  can  make  with 
materials  very  easily  procured.  Take  a  good  flour 
barrel,  cut  away  a  few 
staves  at  the  hight  of 
a  common  rocking 
chair,  then  make  a 
deeper  cut  about  a  foot 
higher  to  form  the 
arms,  as  shown  in  the 
engraving.  Nail  in  a 
circular  board  for  the 
bottom ;  then  make  a 
suitable  cover  of  any 
kind  of  cloth,  stuff  it 
well  with  hair,  moss, 
tow,  or  other  proper 
material,  and  it  is  com¬ 
plete.  A  small  open¬ 
ing  or  door  can  be  made  under  the  seat,  which  will 
furnish  a  convenient  work  box.  Before  commenc¬ 
ing  to  make  a  chair  of  this  kind  from  a  barrel,  it  is 
necessary  to  nail  all  the  hoops  securely,  especially 
those  which  are  to  be  cut,  to  each  of  the  staves. 


A.ime  for  Whitewasli  in  the  spring 
should  be  slaked  now.  Take  quick-lime  in  lumps  ; 
.'start  the  slaking  with  hot  water,  and  add  more  as 
needed  to  bring  it  to  a  creamy  consistence.  Bo 
this  in  a  half  barrel  or  similar  vessel ;  stir  it  well, 
cover  and  leave  it  in  a  still  place,  undisturbed  until 


wanted  for  use.  A  crust  of  carbonate  of  lime  will 
form  on  the  surface  ;  this  will  have  to  be  skimmed 
off  Lime  prepared  in  this  way  becomes  smoother 
and  softer,  the  gritty  portions  and  particles  imper¬ 
fectly  burned  settle  to  the  bottom,  and  the  slak¬ 
ing  is  more  complete  than  if  siaked  at  the  time  it 
is  used,  and  for  nice  work  it  is  much  preferable  to 
lime  slaked  at  the  time  it  is  wanted  for  application. 

■■■  ■  I  ■  ■- - - 


The  meshes  of  cloth  catch  and  hold  ma'ny  sub¬ 
stances  which  do  not  belong  there.  These  are  usu¬ 
ally  made  up  of  various  matters  floating  in  the  air, 
or  gathered  by  contact  with  dusty  surfaces,  and  in 
wearing  apparel,  exhalations  from  the  body  help  to 
soil  the  cloth.  Water,  properly  applied,  carries  out 
some  of  the  foreign  particles  mechanically,  others 
are  dissolved,  and  thus  separate  chemically.  Hot 
water  acts  more  readily  than  cold,  but  even  when 
it  is  heated,  some  substances  do  not  yield  to  it,  and 
soap,  or  other  chemical  additions,  are  necessary  to 
prepare  them  for  separation  from  the  cloth.  To 
wash  clothing  effectually,  it  is  necessary  to  bring 
the  water  and  soap,  or  other  detergent,  into  repeat¬ 
ed  contact  with  every  fibre,  and  the  hotter  the  bet¬ 
ter  ;  and  the  process,  or  machine,  which  does  this 
best,  and  with  the  least  labor,  is  first  in  excellence 
and  most  desirable,  provided  it  is  not  too  costly. 

Above  we  have  illustrated  a  Washing  Machine 
invented  by  Mr.  Wm.  M.  Doty,  which,  in  our  judg¬ 
ment,  combines  the  desired  points  in  an  excellent 
manner.  It  consists  of  tub.  A,  nearly  square,  but 
with  the  front  and  rear  ends  sloping  toward  the 
bottom.  A  movable  wash-board,  B,  is  suspended 
within  the  tub,  by  means  of  pins,  on  the  two  up¬ 
right  side-pieces  into  which  the  board  is  mortised. 
The  clothing  is  placed  between  the  wash-board,  B, 
and  the  sloping  side.  A,  and  the  wash-board  is 
swung  against  it  by  means  of  a  frame,  or  handle, 
with  its  lower  ends  entered  into  slots  in  the  upper 
end  of  the  side  pieces.  A  brass  spring  at  (7,  be¬ 
tween  the  side  piece  and  the  side  of  the  tub,  and 
fastened  to  each,  brings  the  board  back  after  it  has 
been  forced  against  the  clothing  by  the  downward 
motion  of  the  arms.  The  wash-board  is  placed  to 
strike  the  clothes,  so  that  they  are  kept  rolling 
over  and  over,  and  a  new  surface  is  presented  for 
each  blow,  thus  operating  on  the  priucipie  of  a 
fulling  mill.  A  cover  for  the  tub  is  provided,  to 
keep  the  water  hot,  which  is  an  important  addition. 
The  tub  is  readily  emptied  by  a  faucet  in  front,  not 
shown  in  the  engraving.  The  family  size  of  this 


machine  will  take  the  bulk  of  six  shirts  at  a  time, 
and  wash  them  in  three  to  five  minutes,  with  much 
less  wear  to  the  clothing  tlian  by  rubbing  over  the 
board.  Our  estimate  of  the  value  of  this  household 
implement  may  be  judged  by  the  fact  tliat,  after 
several  months’  trial  in  the  family  of  the  Proprietor 
of  the  Agriculturist,  by  the  side  of  several  others, 
this  was  finally  selected  to  offer  as  a  premium  to  our 
friends  sending  subscribers.  The  machine  i.s  also 
being  introduced  for  washing  wool,  and 
much  liked  for  this  use  by  those  who  have 
tried  it.  Subscribers  west  of  the  Ohio  rivet 
can  be  supplied  with  these  machines  by 
Messrs.  Doty  Brothers,  Janesville,  Wis., 
others  by  H.  B.  Lane,  Agent,  1.51  Nassau-st., 
New-York  City.  The  arms  and  logs  are 
easily  removed,  and  the  whole  readily  pack¬ 
ed  in  small  compass  for  shipping.  With 
the  handles  slipped  out,  and  a  cover  laid  on 
it  answers  as  a  small  fable  in  the  kitcher.. 
The  price  here  is  813,  at  Janesville,  $10..50. 
This  low  price  is  a  prominent  cousidcr.ation, 
and  recommends  this  machine  to  the  public. 
- 0 - 

Our  Bachelor  in  the  Household. 

The  publication  of  the  Bachelor’s  crusade 
against  the  recipes  we  placed  in  his  hands 
has,  as  we  anticipated  it  would,  brought 
down  upon  him  the  just  indignation  of  sev¬ 
eral  of  our  lady  friends.  This  has  evidently 
had  an  effect,  as  he  is  moved  to  reply  .is 
follows  : — “  Now,  Mr.  Householder,  you 
have  done  it !  and  my  ‘  private  opinion,  pub¬ 
licly  expressed,’  has  gone  forth  in  yonr  soap 

from  the 
mo,  there 

must  have  been  a  tlutter  in  more  than  one 
kitchen,  when  the  last  .igricidturisl  came  to 
hand.  You  seem  to  have  taken  a  malicious 
pleasure  in  setting  forth  and  emphasizing 
the  fact  of  my  singleness,  and  then  have 
done  all  you  can  to  prevent  my  bettering  my  con¬ 
dition  (or  otherwise),  by  making  public  my  views  on 
some  domestic  matters. 

Well,  I  accept  the  situation,  and  take  the  let¬ 
ters  of  indignation  as  the  reward  which  those 
who  try  to  reform  popular  abuses  always  reeeire. 
But  I  am  happy  to  know  that  all  the  housekeepers 
are  not  irate,  and  some  have  written  sensible  lelters, 
which  are  good  to  read,  and  one  lady  has  sent  me 
Aer  cook-book,  with  a  request  to  e.vchangc.  Let  her 
wait  till  mine  is  out,  and  she  shall  have  two  copies. 
As  to  your  fling  at  a  bachelor’s  knowledge  of  cook¬ 
ery,  it  is  merely  a  specimen  of  the  airs  of  supci-ior- 
ity  which  married  jicople  are  apt  to  indulge  in.  A 
man  no  more  need  be  of  the  matrimonial  persua¬ 
sion,  before  he  can  judge  what  is  good  and  whole¬ 
some  food,  than  he  need  be  a  gardener  to  know  a 
good  rose,  a  fiddler  to  judge  of  music,  or  a  painter 
to  be  able  to  appreciate  a  good  picture.  But  I  be¬ 
lieve  that  I  do  know  something  about  culinary  art. 
Once  in  my  life,  I  was  some  years  whei  e  cooks  were 
not  to  be  had,  and  was  obliged  to  investigate  the 
subject  myself,  or  eat  my  food  raw.  I  found  that 
the  great  essentials  were ;  something  to  cook,  some¬ 
thing  to  cook  it  in,  a  fire,  and  common  sense.  The 
first  three  are  easily  obtained  everywhere,  but  tlie 
last  and  greatest  of  these  is  a.s  rare  in  the  kitchen 
as  elsewhere.  .  Now  if  I  could  only  teach  j'eople 
that  fat  pork,  seven  days  in  the  week,  was  neither 
necessary  nor  healthful ;  that  a  good  breakfast  may 
be  made  without  meat ;  that  when  water  boils  it  is 
as  hot  as  it  ever  will  be  ;  that  a  rich  nance  pie  or 
pudding,  after  one  has  eaten  meat  to  the  limit  of 
his  capacity,  is  one  thing  too  much  ;  that  alkalies  — 
soda  and  saleratus — when  they  meet  with  fat— short¬ 
ening — will  form  soap,  which,  though  good  in  its 
place,  is  not  good  in  brc.ad  and  cakes ;  that  peas, 
asparagus,  and  other  delicate  vegetables,  are  ruined 
if  boiled  with  pork,  or  other  meats,  and  a  hundred 
other  such  obvious  and  commonsensic.al  things, 
they  would  be  prepared  for  my  cook-book,  to  which 
I  jocularly  referred.  Seriously,  I  am  glad  that  your 
good  lady  friends  send  in  their  recipes,  for  it  shows 
that  they  think  that  what  we  eat  is  of  some  couso 


Washing  Machines.— A  Good  One. 


88 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[MaivCH, 


quence,  :iiid  though  I  may  let  off  a  little  harmless 
fuu  at  some  of  them,  1  trust  none  will  think  it  ill- 
natured.  One  great  cause  of  our  indifferent  cook¬ 
ery,  as  a  people,  is,  that  we  have  regarded  eating  as 
a  necessity  of  our  nature,  but  something  unworthy 
of  any  serious  thought.  Now,  as  we  are  obliged  to 
have  three  meals  a  day,  I  consider  thatthej’  should 
not  merctly  serve  the  wants  of  the  system  and  ajj- 
pease  hunger,  but  that  they  should  be  made  aetually 
enjoyable.  The  whole  family  are  g.athered  at  the 
table  ;  indeed  in  many  eases  the  hours  spent  there 
are  the  only  ones  of  family  reunion.  Here  is  the 
family  council,  the  place  where  lessons  of  wisdom 
are  taught,  and  all  home  ties  strengthened,  and  it  is 
too  much  to  expect  of  poor  hum.an  nature  to  be 
good,  wise,  or  happy  over  poor  and  indigestible 
food.  If  some  Girard  or  Cooper  would  found  a 
school  for  ladies,  in  which  cookery  should  be  r.aiscd, 
if  not  to  the  dignity  of  an  exact  science,  at  least  to 
that  of  a  useful  art,  it  would  be  a  national  blessing. 
You  ask  me  to  contribute  occasionally  to  the 
columns  of  your  department.  I  make  no  promises, 
but  if  I  do  write  for  you  sometimes,  I  must  have 
leave  to  say  my  say  in  my  own  way,  and  no  lady 
must  be  offended.”  i 

- •-« - — - ►-«. - 

What  Shall  I  get  for  Variety  ? 

“  Are  you  awake  ?”  said  I  to  my  wife,  as  the  clock 
struck  five.  “  Yes,”  she  replied  quickly  ;  and,  “  I 
have  been  thinking  for  nearly  two  hours  what  I  can 
get  up  for  a  variety  on  the  table.  It  is  nothing 
but  beef,  pork,  mutton,  fish,  and  chicken;  and 
then,  chicken,  fish,  mutton,  pork  and  beef.” — “Do 
you  need  a  better  variety  than  that?” — “If  our 
boarders  (two  bachelors)  were  not  so  observing 
and  very  particular  about  every  dish  that  would  do.” 

“  Let  me  give  you  a  programme  for  a  week.  Now, 
if  you  have  beefsteak  and  mutton  for  breakfast, 
make  a  meat  pie,  just  as  a  chicken  pie  is  made,  for 
dinner;  and,  slice  up  some  cold  ham,  or  mutton,  for 
those  who  think  meat  pie  is  not  enough.  For  a 
dessert,  make  apple  dumplings  instead  of  so  much 
pie,  pie,  at  every  meal.  That’s  good  enough 
for  one  day.  To-morrow,  for  breakfast,  cook  fresh 
fish,  and  make  fresh-pork  dumpling,  by  dipjiing 
the  thin  slices  in  a  batter  made  of  eggs  and  flour. 
This  dish  may  be  varied  by  using  salt  pork,  some¬ 
times,  instead  of  fresh.  For  dinner,  have  roast 
beef,  or  mutton,  with  baked  beans,  and  salt  pork. 

“  What  shall  we  have  for  supper  ?” — “  In  addition 
to  good  white  bread,  and  Graham  bread,  have  white 
bisc'jit  one  evening;  Graham  biscuit  the  next 
evening  ;  the  next  evening  make  buckwheat  cakes ; 
the  next,  make  Canaille  cakes.  (Canaille  is  the 
coarse  part  of  wheat  flour.)  At  another  time,  make 
cakes  of  equal  quantities  of  Indian  me.al  and  Gra¬ 
ham  flour,  and  bake  on  a  griddle,  and  serve  with 
butter,  or  cream  and  syrup.  For  variety  in  the  line 
of  sweetening,  dissolve  a  few  pounds  of  maple  su¬ 
gar,  in  hot  water.  These  dishes  w’ill  always  be  ex¬ 
cellent.  One  day  have  apple  pie;  the  next,  mince 
pie ;  the  next,  pumpkin  pie ;  the  next,  custard  pie ; 
and,  for  Sunday,  nothing  will  eat  better  than  a  pie 
made  of  a  Hubbard  squash.  The  next  morning 
fried  chicken,  and  baked  potatoes,  and  pork,  and, 
if  potatoes  will  not  be  enough,  add  turnip,  or 
squash.  At  noon,  make  a  me.at  pie.  It  appears  to 
me,  that  so  many  good  dishes  can  be  varied  so  that 
none  of  us  need  get  tired  of  either  of  them. 

Suggestions  about  Houses. 

Molly  Greenfield  writes  to  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist  :  “  Published  plans  of  houses  .are  all  well 
enough,  as  being  suggestive,  but  a  person  should 
not  follow  them  heedlessly.  A  house  well  adapted 
to  one  situation,  may  be  very  illy  suited  for  another. 
A  house  just  right  on  a  North-and-South  road, 
mignt  be  just  wrong  on  an  East-and-West  one,  or 
even  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  same  road.  One 
tiling,  I  think,  receives  less  attention  than  it  de¬ 
serves,  that  is,  the  lighting  of  various  parts  of  a 
dwelling.  Now  I  want  a  kitchen  with  light  from 
the  East.  I  would  like  it  to  be  bright  and  sunshiny 
to  the  morning,  when  I  have  to  work  there.  I  want 


no  room  that  is  to  be  much  used  for  sitting  or 
sleeping,  to  have  only  North  windows.  A  pantry, 
if  to  be  used  for  milk  in  summer,  should  be  lighted 
from  the  North,  and  the  next  preference  is  from 
the  East.  From  the  South  and  West  the  sun  is 
very  hot  on  summer  afternoons.  If  only  for  a 
W'inter  milk  room,  it  may  be  lighted  from  those 
directions.  I  would  have  opportunity  to  enjoy  the 
glories  of  sunset  from  a  Western  window  in  my 
sitting  room  or  parlor,  and  would  have  the  soft 
dawn  of  morning  enter  my  sleeping  room.  A  little 
right  calculation  will  make  a  great  difference  in  the 
pleasantness  of  a  house. — The  family  sleeping 
room  should  be  large  enough  for  two  beds,  or  have 
a  seeond  bedroom  adjoining,  and  be  arranged  for 
warming.  I  would  prefer  a  fire-place.  It  ought 
also  to  have,  as  adjuncts,  at  least  a  small  dressing 
room,  with  clothes-press,  and  a  bath  closet.  Ad¬ 
joining  the  sitting  room,  I  would  have  a  small  study, 
and  somewhere,  if  I  eould,  a  convenient  place  for 
house  plants,  and,  when  building,  would  get  in  all 
the  closets  possible,  at  least  one  for  every  large  room. 

About  the  wood-house.  My  plan  is  to  have  this 
located  at  a  little  distance  from  the  dwelling,  say 
a  rod  or  tivo,  eonnected,  perhaps,  with  a  dairy,  or 
other  workhouse,  and  with  the  dwelling  by  a 
covered  passage.  The  wood  yard  is  to  be  on  the 
opposite  side,  away  from  the  dwelling,  and  filled 
from  that  side,  but  with  a  door  toward  the  house, 
through  which  to  carry  the  prepared  ivood.  This 
might  take  some  more  steps  than  the  usual  method, 
but  would  they  not  be  fully  repaid  by  the  tidiness 
around  the  dwelling,  and,  perhaps,  its  increased 
healthfulness?  Who  knows  what  disease  m.ay 
not  have  found  its  w.ay  to  the  household  from  the 
decaying  chip  manure,  at  the  very  b.ack  door? 
With  this  iflan,  you  can  have  flowers  and  shrub¬ 
bery,  and  vines,  all  around  your  house.” 

*1  <  »■  n  (P  in —  f  1 

How  to  Make  Hard  Soap. 

The  request  in  the  February  Agriculturist  for 
direetions  to  make  hard  soap,  has  been  answered 
by  a  generous  pile  of  letters,  for  which  our  thanks 
and  those  of  our  readers  are  due.  More  than  a 
dozen  send  No.  1,  following ;  one  sends  a  sample 
of  the  article,  which  is  superior  to  much  that  is 
sold  at  the  stores,  and  is  quite  cheaply  made. 

No.  1.  Pour  4  gallons  of  boiling  water  over  6 
pounds  of  w.ashmg  soda  (sal  soda)  .and  3  pounds  of 
unslacked  lime.  Stir  the  mixture  well,  and  let  it 
settle  until  it  is  perfectly  clear.  It  is  better  to  let 
it  stand  all  night,  as  it  takes  some  time  for  the 
sediment  to  settle.  When  clear,  str.ain  the  water, 
put  6  pounds  of  fat  with  it  and  boil  for  2  hours, 
stirring  it  most  of  the  time.  If  it  does  not  seem 
thin  enough,  put  another  gallon  of  water  on  the 
grounds,  stir  and  drain  oil',  and  add  as  is  wanted  to 
the  boiling  mixture.  Its  thickness  can  be  tried  by 
occasionally  putting  a  little  on  a  plate  to  eool.  Stir 
in  a  h.andful  of  salt  just  before  taking  off  the  fire. 
Have  a  tub  ready  soaked,  to  prevent  the  so.ap  from 
sticking,  pour  it  in,  and  let  it  settle  until  solid, 
when  you  will  have  from  the  above  quantity  of  in¬ 
gredients  about  forty  pounds  of  nice  white  so.ap. 

No.  2.  Dissolve  1  pound  coneentrated  potash, 
in  2  quarts  of  boiling  water,  in  a  small  kettle  by 
itself.  In  another  kettle,  boil  about  5  pounds  of 
clean  fat,  or  tallow,  or  its  equivalent  of  soap  gre.ase, 
with  2  gallons  of  soft  w.ater.  As  soon  as  the  grease 
is  melted,  gradually  add  the  dissolved  lye  from  the 
small  kettle,  about  a  gill  at  a  time,  until  all  the  lye 
is  used,  constantly  boiling  and  stirring  over  a  slow 
fire  until  the  whole  becomes  thick  and  as  trans¬ 
parent  .as  honey.  During  this  process,  sufficient 
w.ater  should  be  added  occasionally  to  replace  what 
has  boiled  out.  If  using  fresh  grease,  add  4  ounces 
of  salt.  Let  it  stand  till  it  gets  cold,  then  cut  into 
bars,  and  put  aw.ay  to  dry.  The  concentrated  pot¬ 
ash,  or  lye,  can  be  obtained  at  any  drug  store,  and 
usually  in  country  stores  where  medicines  are  kept. 

No.  3.  Another  correspondent  writes  :  “Hard 
so.ap  is  m.ade  the  same  as  good  soft  soap,  by  the 
union  of  grease  and  strong  lye;  the  clearer  the 
grease,  the  better  the  soap.  They  are  boiled  up 
together;  when  they  boil  up  thick,  then  add  salt  in 
the  proportion  of  2  quarts  to  8  gallons  of  soap.  Let 


it  boil  up  thoroughl3q  set  it  away  to  cool,  when  it 
can  be  cut  out  and  dried  ready  for  use.” 

No.  4.  Take  about  12  quarts  good  soft  soap, 
add  1  teacupful  of  fine  salt,  bring  it  to  a  boil  while 
stirring,  and  set  away  until  cold;  then  take  off  the 
top,  bring  it  up  to  a  simmer,  then  strain,  jiut  it  on 
a  board  to  dry.  Cut  it  up  and  turn  while  drying. 


Practical  Odds  and  Ends. 


Contributed  by  Subscribers  to  the  American  Agri- 
cultxirist.  Please  send  plenty  more  of  the  same  sort. 

A  Black  Board  should  be  in  every  kitchen, 
not  to  mark  with  chalk,  but  to  place  pots  and  ket¬ 
tles  on  when  removing  them  from  the  fire.  Make 
it  about  a  foot  square,  and  1  inch  thick.  It  need 
not  be  w.ashed  often  merely  for  looks,  as  the  cor¬ 
ners  will  be  unsoiled.  Its  use  will  save  the  ta¬ 
bles,  floor,  sink,  etc.,  from  many  unsightly  marks. 

To  Peel  Onions  Cheerfully. —Sit  before  the 
draft  of  a  fire  on  the  hearth,  or  with  the  pan  on  the 
stove  hearth,  avith  the  front  doors  open,  and  you 
m.ay  peel  any  quantity,  without  shedding  a  tear. 

To  Keep  Sausage  Me.at. — Prepare  it  in  small, 
round  cakes,  fry  them  as  for  the  table,  pack  them 
closely  in  au  earthen  jar,  pour  the  fat  from  frying 
over  them,  .and  put  a  weight  on  them  to  keep  them 
downuutil  cold,  then  remove  the  weight,  and  cover 
the  top  over  with  lard.  Keep  in  a  cool,  dry  place. 

Geese  Eggs  carried  to  the  cellar  as  soon  as  laid, 
and  kept  there,  will  hatch  well.  They  should  be 
turned  over  once  a  day.  Above  stairs,  the  temper¬ 
ature  is  uneven.  Number  the  eggs  as  laid,  that  the 
first  goose  setting  may  have  the  eggs  first  laid. 

Varnished  Furniture  is  sometimes  disfigured 
by  heat,  which  causes  white,  spots  ;  to  remove  these, 
touch  them  with  flannel  slightly  dipped  in  alcohol, 
and  rub  till  the  whole  surface  is  dry  and  warm. 

Apples,  quartered  and  cored,  sprinkled  with 
sugar,  and  cooked  in  a  close  dish,  in  the  oven, 
require  less  sw'eetening,  and  are  preferable  to  those 
stewed  in  the  ordinary  way. 

- - - - - - 

Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 


Cream  Pie. — Contributed  by  A.  M.  Turner, 
Litchfield  Co.,  Conn.  Mix  1  egg  bc.aten,  2  table¬ 
spoonfuls  eorn  starch  (flour  will  answer,)  2  table- 
spoonfuls  sug.ar,  a  little  salt,  a  tcaspoonful  extract 
of  lemon,  and  1  pint  of  milk.  Bake  the  two  crusts 
scpar.atelj' ;  boil  the  custard,  and  when  cold  lay  it 
on  one  crust  and  cover  with  the  other. 

Aaotlaer  Cream  Pie. — Contributed  by 
Mrs.  H.  Drinker,  Susquehanna  Co.,  P.a.  Take  6 
eggs,  two  small  cups  of  sug.ar,  2  cups  of  flour,  1  tea¬ 
spoonful  of  cream  of  tartar,  teaspoonful  ol 
soda.  Dissolve  the  soda  in  a  little  hot  w.ater ;  mix 
the  flour,  sug.ar,  and  cream  of  tartar;  whip  the 
eggs  separately;  mix  all  the  ingredients  w'cll  to¬ 
gether,  and  pour  into  two  plates  of  moderate  size. 

Cream  for  the  Fie. — Take  1  pint  new  milk,  1  small 
cup  of  sug.ar,  2}{  tablespoonfuls  of  flour,  and  2 
eggs.  Beat  the  eggs,  sugar,  and  flour  together; 
stir  them  into  the  milk  when  it  boils  ;  let  it  remain 
over  the  fire  until  it  thickens,  but  do  not  let  it  boil. 
Flavor  with  vanilla.  A  few  minutes  before  dinner, 
split  the  c.ake,  by  cutting  around  the  edge,  .and 
pulling  off  the  upper  half;  pour  the  custard  on  the 
lower  half,  and  cover  with  the  other. 

Spanisli  Cream. — M.ake  a  soft  custard  of  1 
quart  of  new  milk,  and  the  yolks  of  6  eggs,  with  6 
tablespoonfuls  of  sugar.  Dissolve  %  ounce  of  gel¬ 
atine  in  pint  of  water,  add  it  to  the  custard 
when  hot,  flavor  to  the  taste,  jiour  into  moulds, 
and  put  in  n  cold  place. 

Ciood  Bread  Pa<1dSia^,  without  eggs, 
may  be  made  by  stirring  into  it  good,  tart  apples 
(pared  and  quartered,  or  sliced),  when  ready  for 
the  oven. 

Cliocolate  ISlaitc  MaiSR-e.— Take  1  quart 
of  milk,  and  %  pound  of  unsweetened  chocolate 
made  fine;  boil  together  for  a  few- minutes,  and 
sweeten  to  your  taste  while  boiling.  Put  im 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


89 


iS65.] 


■while  hot,  of  a  box  of  prepared  gelatine,  and 
stir  until  dissolved.  Wlicn  cool,  add  a  small  table¬ 
spoonful  of  vanilla  extract,  and  pour  into  moulds 
to  cool.  It  is  better  made  the  day  before  needed. 

Ibi-  tllse  Side  ISoossu— Criist- 
l*ortt-Uls'e. — Contributed  by  Lina  May.  Take  a 
thick  slice  of  bread,  or  what  is  better,  a  light-baked 
crust,  and  boil  it  in  a  quart  of  water  20  minutes, 
adding  a  little  salt*  Season  according  to  the  condi¬ 
tion  of  the  patient ;  butter  will  improve  the  taste. 

Water  «5riael.— Mix  2  tablespoonfuls  of 
wheat  flour,  2  tablespooufuls  of  Indian  meal  and 
1  tsaspoonful  of  salt  with  a  little  cold  water,  care¬ 
fully  mashing  all  lumps.  Pour  this  into  3  quarts 
water,  and  cook  40  minutes,  skimming  it  occasion¬ 
ally.  A  few  raisins  thrown  in  while  boiling  im¬ 
prove  the  flavor,  and  are  usually  harmless. 

Milli  CJracl.— Prepare  the  same  as  water 
gruel,  except  using  only  2  quarts  of  boiling  water. 
Simmer  for  20  minutes,  stirring  it  often  ;  then  add 
I  quart  of  milk  and  let  the  whole  scald  five  min¬ 
utes.  Great  care  must  be  taken  to  prevent  burning. 

Corm  ISreatl.— Stir  well  together  1  pint  each 
of  water,  Indian  meal,  and  wheat  flour,  1  table- 
spoonful  of  sugar  or  molasses,  34  tcaspoonful  each 
of  soda  and  salt,  and  1  teacupful  of  yeast  bread 
sponge.  Place  it  in  a  2-quart  basin  that  has  been 
well  greased,  and  let  it  stand  in  a  warm  place  until 
light.  Then  set  the  basin  in  a  steamer  over  a  ket¬ 
tle  of  boiling  water,  and  let  it  steam  two  hours, 
after  which  put  it  in  the  oven  for  20  or  80  minutes, 
to  brown  over,  and  dry  out  some  of  the  moisture. 


mYB  <k 

WSiat  Malcev  Wind.  ISlow  ? 

If  the  question  were.  “  Who  makes  the  wind  blow,” 
all  our  young  friends  would  have  a  ready  answer  ;  they 
know  tliat  God  controls  all  the  forces  of  nature.  But  he 
uses  means.  The  sun  is  His  great  wind-maker.  To  under¬ 
stand  its  action,  thinlc  of  the  air  as  a  gr  eat  ocean  like  wa¬ 
ter,  but  much  lighter,  entirely  surrounding  the  globe.  The 
sun  shines  upon  this  ocean  of  air,  and  through  it  on  the 
earth,  heating  them  both,  and  imparting  most  heat  at 
the  earth’s  surface.  But  the  sun’s  rays  shine  more  di¬ 
rectly  down  on  some  parts  than  on  otheis,  and  therefore 
heat  them  more.  Thus,  it  is  always  hotter  in  the  re¬ 
gion  of  the  eriuator,  than  at  the  poles.  Now  heat  expands 
a  fluid,  making  it  lighter,  and  when  part  of  the  air  is  ex¬ 
panded  by  heat,  it  rises,  and  the  cooler,  heavier  sur¬ 
rounding  air  rushes  in  to  fill  its  place,  and  thus  wind 
is  produced.  The  foiiowing  simple  experiment  will  show 
just  how  thia  works.  Fill  a  large  tin  paii  with  water  in 
which  scatter  some  fine  bread  crumbs.  Place  a  burning 
lamp  under  the  middle  of  the  pail,  and  the  crumbs  will 
soon  begin  to  rise,  carried  up  by  the  heated  coiumn  of 
water,  and  then  making  a  curve  toward  the  sides,  will 
sink  downward,  and  p-ass  in  a  horizontai  direction  along 
the  bottom,  just  as  wind  drives  along  the  earth’s  surface. 
In  a  room  containing  a  hot  stove,  drop  into  the  air  in  dif¬ 
ferent  places  bits  of  light  cotton,  or  dry  thistle  blossoms, 
and  you  will  see  how  the  air  is  moving  at  each  point. 

If  the  earth  were  all  a  plain,  and  each  part  received  a 
regular  unchanging  amount  of  heat  through  the  year,  the 
currents  of  air  or  winds  would  always  move  in  one  direc¬ 
tion.  But  many  things  prevent  this.  The  land  is  more 
heated  than  the  water  by  the  sun's  rays  ;  some  soils  also 
absorb  beat  more  readily  than  others  ;  then  at  night  and 
during  cloudy  weather  when  the  source  of  heat  is  cut  off, 
the  heat  is  radiated  or  passed  out  unequally  from  different 
localities,  and  this  produces  variations  in  the  currents. 
Mountains,  and  valleys  also,  change  the  courses  of  the 
winds,  and  other  causes,  such  as  the  varying  moisture  in 
the  air,  and  probably  its  electrical  condition,  still  farther 
operate  to  cause  them  to  shift  and  change,  so  that  no  one 
Ban  predict  with  certainty  which  way  the  wind  will 
olow  to-morrow,  and  “  fickle  as  the  wind,”  has  come  to  be 
a  proverb.  On  the  ocean  where  no  mountains  intervene, 
and  where  the  he.at  is  quite  uniform,  currents  of  air 
called  trade  winds  blow  steadily  in  one  direction.  Their 
course  in  the  northern  hemisphere  is  from  north-east  to 
south-west,  in  the  southern  hemisphere  from  south-east 
to  north-west.  These  steady  winds  are  of  great  service 
In  navigation  or  trade,  as  ships  are  some  times  enabled  to 
glide  before  them  for  weeks  without  changing  a  sail. 
New  oisioveries  are  being  made  almost  every  year,  and 
perhaps  at  some  time  in  the  future  men  may  be  able  to 
foretell  the  direction  of  the  wind ;  at  present,  we  can 
only  try  and  make  the  best  of  it  from  whichever  quarter 


it  comes  ;  though  that  is  a  little  difficult  on  some  March 
days,  when  it  seems  to  blow  from  all  quarters  at  once. 

BBooSs-SsecjjiBog'  ior  BSoys  stimsl 

The  boys  and  girls’  Cash  Account  Book  described  in 
the  January  Agriculturist,  has  set  many  readers  to  think¬ 
ing.  It  is  easy  to  tel)  what  subjects  interest  our  readers 
from  the  letters  received.  We  like  to  have  them  express 
their  opinions  fully  in  criticisms  and  suggestions,  as  well 
as  in  praise.  One  gentleman  writes  about  the  Cash 
Account,  “  I  wish  every  boy  and  girl  in  the  land  were 
required  to  keep  a  neat  and  exact  account  of  receipts 
and  expenditures.  It  would  induce  habits  of  careful¬ 
ness,  industry  and  economy,  that  in  a  few  years  w'ould 
tell  on  the  welfare  of  the  nation,  for  its  moral  as  well  as 
its  financial  prosperily.”  He  suggests  the  following 
method  of  keeping  the  ,'\ccount,  which  has  some  advan¬ 
tages,  being  concise  and  economical. 

I  1864. Cush  Account. 1864. 


Dr.  II  December.  n  Cr. 


79 

1 

To  balance  from  last  month . 

2 

By  money  for  ball . 

05. 

32 

3 

Money  from  Papa  for  leaves  gath- 

ered,  16  bushels,  (o>  2o . 

5 

Paid  Sunday  School  Miss.  Society... 

10 

01. 

Beating  Papain  dressing . 

OS. 

T 

Gathering  4  bushels  of  leaves . 

8 

Contributed  to  soldiers  Hospitals _ 

10 

07. 

10 

Weekly  allowance  . 

Admission  to  Museum . 

15 

12 

Candy  bought . 

01. 

31 

Balance  carried  to  January  1865 _ 

41 

86 

$11  27 

$1 

27 

“  The  left  hand  columns  are  for  the  Dr.  account,  or 
money  received,  with  a  column  for  the  date  of  the  entries. 
The  right  hand  for  the  Cr.  account,  or  money  paid  out. 
Supposing  the  account  for  the  month  to  be  completed, 
I  have  struck  the  balance,  which  is  ready  to  be  carried  to 
the  account  for  the  next  month.  In  this  way  each  page 
of  the  account  book  can  be  filled  up.  and  no  b)'oad  spaces 
left  blank.”  The  young  beginner  will  be  more  likely  to 
make  mistakes  by  this  method  than  in  using  the  form 
given  in  January.  This,  however,  will  teach  carefulness, 
and  so  perhaps  in  the  end  be  an  advantage.  Let  no  one 
be  discouraged  by  mistakes  ;  the  fact  that  they  are  made 
is  the  strongest  reason  for  persevering,  so  that  they  may 
finally  be  avoided. 

Tlse  Csare  of  tSie  ©i-tuiilfjin-d. 

A  man  long  noted  for  intemperate  htibits  was  induced 
by  Rev.  John  Abbott,  to  sign  the  pledge  “in  his  own  way,” 
whicn  he  did  in  these  words,  “  I  pledge  myself  to  drink 
no  more  intoxicating  drinks  for  one  year.”  Few  believed 
he  could  keep  it,  but  near  the  end  of  the  year  he  again 
appeared  at  a  temperance  meeting,  without  having  once 
touched  a  drop.  “  Are  you  not  going  to  sign  again  ?” 
asked  Mr.  Abbott.  “  Yes,”  replied  he,  if  1  can  do  it  in  my 
own  way,  and  accordingly  he  wrote  ‘  ‘  I  sign  this  pledge 
for  nine  hundied  and  ninety  nine  years,  and  if  I  live  to 
that  time,  I  intend  to  take  out  a  life  lease  A  few  days 
after  he  called  upon  the  tavei  n  keeper,  who  welcomed 
him  back  to  his  old  haunt.  “  Oh  !  landlord,”  said  he,  as 
if  in  pain,  “I  have  such  a  lump  on  my  side  !”  “  That’s 
because  you’ve  stopped  drinking,”  said  the  landlord,  “you 
won’t  live  long  if  you  keep  on.”— “  Will  drink  take  the 
lump  away?” — “Yes,  and  if  you  don’t  drink  you’ll  soon 
have  a  lump  on  the  other  side.  Come  let’s  drink  togeth¬ 
er,”  and  he  poured  out  two  glasses  of  whiskey. — “  I  guess 
I  won't  drink,”  said  the  former  inebriate,  “  especially  if 
keeping  the  pledge  will  bring  another  lump,  for  it  isn’t 
very  hard  to  bear,  after  all,”  and  with  this  he  drew  the 
lump,  a  roll  of  greenbacks,  from  his  side  pocket,  and 
walked  off  leaving  the  landlord  to  his  sad  reflections. 


Bragging.— A  foreigner  who  had  heard  of  the 
Yankee  propensity  for  bragging,  thought  he  would  beat 
the  natives  at  their  own  game.  Seeing  some  large  wa¬ 
termelons  on  a  market-woman’s  stand  he  exclaimed, 
“What!  don’t  you  raise  larger  apples  than  these  in 
America?”  The  quick-witted  woman  immediately  re¬ 
plied,  “Apples  !  any  body  might  know  you  were  a  for¬ 
eigner  :  them’s  gooseberries 

■Wlaat  Kind  of  S*HzzIes  to  Send. 

Our  young  fr  iends,  and  many  not  young  in  years,  kind¬ 
ly  send  frequent  contributions  to  the  puzzle  department, 
for  which  they  will  please  accept  our  thanks.  Of  course 
all  can  not  be  published,  there  would  not  be  room  for 
half  of  them,  even  if  all  were  suitable,  and  so  the  best 
are  selected  in  addition  to  original  ones  furnished  by  the 
editor  of  this  department.  We  invite  our  friends  to  send 
plenty  more,  to  give  a  full  assortment  from  which  to 
choose.  In  every  case  send  the  correct  solution  with  the 
problem,  or  puzzle.  Let  them  be  original ;  if  a  spice  of 
fun  can  be  worked  in,  all  the  better.  Rebuses  and  char¬ 
ades  are  not  desired  :  enough  are  on  hand  to  last  a  long 


time.  Miithematical,  Grammatical,  Geographical  puz¬ 
zles,  and  others  which  instruct  while  they  amuse,  are 
most  welcome.  They  should  not  be  made  too  difficult, 
but  enough  so  to  require  thought,  piitience  and  persever¬ 
ance.  Puzzles  of  various  kinds,  with  strings,  blocks  ol 
wood,  etc.,  etc.,  are  acceptable,  if  new,  and  will  be 
properly  illustrated,  where  it  is  desirable. 

A'bosiit  E®8ali>iiw3aSiiig' 

Up  to  the  pi'esent  lime  the  names  of  those  correctly 
answering  the  problems,  etc.,  have  been  published  in 
these  columns.  This  gave  pleasure  to  those  who  were 
successful,  and  we  were  happy  thus  to  acknowledge 
their  efforts.  But  recently  the  number  has  increased  so 
much,  that  at  the  present  rate  we  shall  sometimes  have 
to  give  up  a  large  part  of  the  boys  and  girls’  columns 
to  names  alone,  or  not  publish  any.  As  the  greatest 
good  to  the  greatest  number  is  our  rule,  we  fijid  we  can 
not  always  give  the  names.  The  pleasure  and  benefit 
of  studying  out  the  puzzles  will  be  just  as  great,  how 
ever,  and  there  will  also  be  room  for  more  problems, 
stoiies,  etc.,  to  please  all  who  love  to  read  this  part  of 
the  paper,  and  that  we  believe  includes  most  readers. 

Answers  to  l®roll>Scm£s  a.nd  l®tszzles. 

The  following  arc  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
February  number,  page  55.  No.  116.  Historical  Ques¬ 
tions.— I,  Uodevick  •,  2,  May  7th;  3,  Franconia  —  No. 
117.  Aaron’s  Rod  bore  almonds  —  No.  118.  llhistratei 
Rebus. — Warm  a  ruin  thousands  and  yet  [in  the  end  oj 
ten)  ba  b  less  eye  in g  ;  or  War  may  ruin  thousands,  and 
yet  in  the  end  often  be  a  blessing  —  No.  119.  Mathemat¬ 
ical  Problem. — None  have  answered  this  correctly,  and 

it  is  left  open  for  another  month _ No.  1'20.  1,  Dublin  : 

2,  Concord;  3,  Augusta  ;  4,  Hartford - No.  121.  Math¬ 

ematical  Rebus.— I  owe  to  A  a  V  (5)  and  ciphers  three  ; 
Owe  ten  to  B  and  ninety  unto  D  ;  Now  let  some  scholar 
cipher  up  and  see,  how  great  the  sum  I  owe  unto  the 

thi’ee _ No.  122.  Conundrum. — Because  he  is  a  sea  king 

(seeking)  what  never  existed. 


Psazzles  to  l?e  Asas’ivrrrd. 


No.  124.  Illustrated  Rebus. — A  very  common  proveib 


No.  125.  Mathematical  Problem. — A  circus  company 
hired  a  triangular  field  each  of  w  hose  sides  measrired 
300  feet.  1st.  How  large  in  diameter  can  they  make  iheir 
ring  in  the  field  ? — 2nd.  How  many  feet  o:'  ground  in  it  ? 


No.  126.  Curious  Word. — What  is  tlie  only  word  in  the 
English  langu<age  that  can  be  written  without  pen,  ink, 
pencil,  or  any  other  instrument  ? 


No.  127.  Illustrated  Rebus. — What  every  body  hopes  for 


No.  128.  Abbreviation. — How  can  you  inquire  after  a 
person’s  health  with  only  ihree  letters? 

No.  129.  Anagrams. — 1,  Nice  red  hams.  2,  Go  nurse. 
3,  To  sin  far  more.  4,  Cover  not  a  sin.  5,  Move  it  cool. 
6,  Miss  no  trains. 

No.  130.  Conundrum. — What  part  of  a  fish  is  like  the 
end  of  .the  war  ? 

No.  131.  Mathematical  Problem. — .A  garden  lies  in  the 
form  of  an  equilateral  triangle  measuring  100  feet  on 
each  side.  A  tower  25  feet  high  stands  three  feet  from 
the  center  on  a  line  toward  one  coiner.  How  far  is  it 
from  the  top  of  the  tower  to  each  corner? 

No.  132.  Ethical  Mathematics. — Suppose  A,  tells  the 
truth  4  times  out  of  5  ;  B,  5  times  out  of  6  ;  C,  6  times 
out  of  7.  Then  if  A,  and  B,  make  a  statement  which  C 
denies,  in  whose  favor  is  the  preponderance  of  truth  ? 
Please  give  solution  and  reasons  with  the  answer. 

No.  133.  Charade. — My  first  is  insane  ;  my  second  is  a 
vowel ;  my  third  gives  light ;  my  fourth  is  a  carriage , 
mj'  whole  is  an  island. 

No.  134. — Puzzle. — 10015150  is  what  all  young  people 
should  be,  to  gain  the  good  opinion  of  others. 


90 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mauch, 


THE  ORGAN  GRINDER  AND  HER  PET. — Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Organ  grimlers  were  formerly  seen  almost  wholly  in 
large  cities,  but  of  late  years  we  have  met  them  tar  out 
in  tlie  country,  where  they  secmcil  pleased  to  receive  a 
bowl  of  mill;  or  a  plate  of  fooil,  instead  of  the  customary 
penny.  Tliey  are  a  wamlering  race,  somewhat  like  the 
gipsies,  and  are  as  strongly  hound  together  by  ties  of 
clanship,  it  is  said  that  they  never  cheat  each  other,  and 
as  acltiss  they  bear  ;i  good  rcimtation  for  general  honesty. 
Most  organ  grinders  are  natives  of  Italy,  many  of  them 
from  Savoy.  Savoy  you  may  remember  formerly  belonged 
to  Northern  Italy,  but  in  ISftO  was  annexed  to  France. 
A  few  Germans  have  taken  up  the  trade  of  making  chetip 
music  on  hand  organs,  but  the  Italian  members  of  the 
craft  look  upon  them  as  interlopers,  and  will  not  associ¬ 
ate  with  them.  It  is  estimated  that  at  least  three  to  four 
thousand  Italian  organ  grinders  have  emigrated  to  this 
country.  Most  of  them  are  poor,  for  the  business  does 
not  pay  very  well.  Occasionally  one  of  tnem  snows  con¬ 
siderable  enterprise  and  talent  in  bringing  out  new  fea¬ 
tures,  and  is  rewarded  by  quite  a  narvest  of  pennies. 
Some  of  this  class  accumulate  enough  to  buy  several 
instruments  w  iiich  they  let  out  to  their  less  fortunate 
brethren.  Frequently  girls  travel  .about  with  organs, 
often  in  pairs,  one  playing  an  accompaniment  with  a  tam¬ 
bourine.  If  they  are  neatly  dressed  and  attractive  in 
personal  appearance  like  the  one  in  the  picture,  they 
may  earn  large  wages,  A  well  trained  monkey  is  a  great 
addition  to  the  music-maker’s  stock  in  trade,  as  its  comi¬ 
cal  tricks  are  quite  sure  to  attract  a  crowd.  Some  of 
these  animals  educated  for  this  purpose  sell  as  high  as 
fifty  to  a  hundreil  dollars  each. 

The  Italian  organ  grinders  of  New  York  City  live  to¬ 
gether  in  a  block  of  poor  rickety  buildings  in  one  of  the 
filthiest  and  most  poverty  stricken  streets.  They  are 
huddled  logelhei  six  to  twelve  in  a  single  room,  with  lit¬ 


tle  or  no  furniture.  Yet  they  are  not  witnout  their  en¬ 
joyments.  Every  year  they  have  a  grand  ball  to  which 
only  members  of  the  profession  are  admitted,  and  where 
it  is  said  there  is  as  much  pride  of  rank  as  among  the 
most  aristocratic  circles.  Some  of  them  claim  relation¬ 
ship  with  noble  families  in  their  own  country,  and  they 
are  looked  up  to  accordingly  by  their  companions. 

The  few  organ  grinders  who  acquire  competence  usu¬ 
ally  return  to  their  native  land  to  which  they  are  passion¬ 
ately  attached.  All  through  long  years  of  toil  and  priva¬ 
tion  they  are  cheered  by  the  blight  vision  of  home  in  the 
distance.  Although  they  are  vagrants,  let  us  not  judge 
them  too  harshly.  They  bring  much  pmasure  to  the  cnil- 
drcn  of  the  poor  at  least,  and  tne  rneiodies  tney  play  are 
often  the  finest  compositions,  which  in  some  degree  aids 
in  giving  correct  musical  taste  to  the  hearers.  Surely 
they  are  better  thus  employed  than  in  simply  oegging. 

'Ftac  Fate  of  tJae  Flm. 

A  thrifty  young  e.m  sprang  up  near  the  edge  of  a  forest. 
The  surrounding  trees  cared  for  it  tenderly.  They  shaded 
it  from  the  rays  of  tire  burning  sun,  caught  the  heavy  pour¬ 
ing  rains  which  might  have  drowned  it  in  infancy,  and 
gently  b.athed  it  with  careful  drops ;  no  harsh  winds 
could  penetrate  the  kind  shelter  they  gave,  and  when 
winter  came  they  dropped  down  their  leaves  to  protect 
its  roots  from  tire  frost  king.  It  grew  rapidly.  Soon  it 
looked  down  upon  the  ferns  and  azaleas,  then  it  over¬ 
topped  the  hazels,  and  ere  long  it  stood  strong  and  grace¬ 
ful,  its  head  so  high  that  it  could  look  far  out  of  the  forest 
into  the  wide  fields.  Then  it  began  to  complain.  “  Oh, 
that  I  could  see  more  of  the  world  ;  the  flowers  of  the 
plain  are  more  beautiful  than  those  which  grow  here  in 
the  shade ;  I  am  tired  of  (his  dreary  darkness  ;  I  long  to 


play  with  the  free  winds.”  And  thus  it  had  no  pleasure 
in  the  good  things  around  it.  One  day  a  strange  sound 
was  heard  in  the  forest.  Blows  of  the  a.x  fell  thick  and 
fast,  and  tree  after  tree  came  down  with  a  crash  before 
the  industrious  workmen.  ’“We  will  leave  this  hand 
some  elm.”  said  the  owner,  “it  will  ornament  the  field. 
In  a  few  months  it  stood  alone  ;  its  companions  had 
all  been  removed,  and  grass  and  flowers  were  springing 
at  its  feet  Its  wish  was  accomplished  ;  but  a  wise  man 
that  lay  beneath  its  shade  one  hot  day  heard  it  sigh,  as 
the  wind  tossed  its  branches.  “  I  ani  fitted  for  belter  so 
ciety  ;  men  seldom  visit  me  ;  coarse  animals  rub  against 
my  trunk  ,  nothing  but  daisies  and  clover  live  here  ;  by 
the  side  of  yonder  mansion  are  noble  lords  of  the  forest, 
rare  flowers  surround  them,  and  beautiful  ladies  sit  in 
their  shade.”  Thus  the  unhappy  tree  found  no  pleasure 

in  the  beautiful  field. - In  autumn  workmen  removed 

the  graceful  elm  to  the  coveted  place  near  the  owner’s 
dwelling.  It  was  planted  where  the  light  streamed  irpoa 
it  through  the  windows  of  the  kitchen,  from  (he  blaze  in 
a  large  open  fireplace.  For  a  little  season  it  seemed 
content.  But  soon  came  the  murmur,  “  Why  am  I  con¬ 
demned  to  stand  here  like  an  outcast  ?  The  angry  blast 
chillsmy  bare  limbs  ;  all  around  me  is  desolate  ;  I  can  pul 
forth  no  leaves,  while  those  irrsigni (leant  roses,  helio¬ 
tropes  and  ger,aniums  are  tenderly  cared  for.  and  kept 
blooming  in  their  summer  home  within  doors.  Thus  tlm 
tree  moaned  unhappily  through  the  winter.  Spring  came, 
the  trees  awoke  and  put  on  their  new  robes  to  hail  the 
season,  all  but  the  poor  elm,  which  showed  only  here 
and  there  a  feeble  leaf.  Presently  the  owner,  while 
walking  through  his  grounds,  said,  “  See,  this  tree  is 
worthless,  its  heart  is  cankered  ;  it  is  no  longer  an  orna¬ 
ment,  take  it  away.”  Then  it  was  cut  down,  prepared 
for  fuel,  and  when  cold  weather  came,  it  vvas  burned  in 
the  room  which  had  excited  its  last  disconlent.  And  an 
old  man  w  ho  one  night  sat  dreamily  by  the  fire  was  heard 
to  say,  “See  my  fate  in  these  expiring  embers  ;  all  my 
life  I  have  despised  the  good  of  the  present,  and  pined 
for  the  future,  until  now  the  past  years  are  all  a  waste, 
and  consumed  by  discontent,  I  can  only  give  to  others 
the  possessions  which  might  have  brought  joy  to  mvself.” 

A  Useful  l>reniii. 

Some  months  since  a  gentleman  forwarded  a  club  of 
subscribers  to  the  American  Agriculturist  directing  them 
to  be  sent  to  Springfield,  giving  neither  County  nor  State. 
The  clerk  entered  the  names  and  money  on  the  books, 
but  as  there  are  twenty-four  Springfields  in  the  United 
States,  he  thought  possibly  he  might  not  guess  the  right 
one,  and  therefore  waited  for  further  instructions — per¬ 
haps  a  scolding — before  sending  the  papers.  Recently  a 
letter  came  from  the  same  place,  complaining  that  the 
papers  had  not  been  received,  this  time  giving  the  Stale. 

Thousands  of  subscribers  had  been  received  and  enter¬ 
ed  since  the  first  letter,  and  the  clerk  w-as  puzzled  to 
know  where  to  look  for  this  “  needle  in  a  haystack." 
After  some  huntinir,  and  a  good  deal  of  vexatious  think¬ 
ing,  he  left  it  for  the  time.  The  same  night  he  dreamed 
the  whole  thing  over,  remembered  where  the  fir.«t  entrv 
was  made,  and  early  in  the  morning  turned  at  once  to  the 
place  he  had  dreamed  of,  where  sure  enough  every  thing 
was  plainly  recorded.  Subscribers  should  not  be  en¬ 
couraged  in  carelessness  by  this  incident,  as  it  is  hardly 
fair  to  expect  our  clerks  to  work  all  day  and  dream  all 
night,  to  keen  their  books  straight. 

Tlie  Heroic  Switch  Tewder. 

The  following  incident  is  related  in  a  European  paper 
as  having  lately  occurred  in  Prussia.  A  switch  tender 
had  just  taken  his  place  to  change  the  tr.ack.  in  order  to 
turn  a  train  which  was  in  sight,  so  as  to  prevent  a  collis¬ 
ion  with  another  train  from  an  opposite  direction.  At 
this  critical  moment,  on  turning  his  head,  he  discovered 
his  little  boy  playing  on  the  track  of  the  advancing  en¬ 
gine.  He  might  spring  to  his  rescue  and  remove  him 
safely,  but  then  he  would  not  have  time  to  turn  the  switch, 
and  hundreds  of  lives  might  be  lost  by  his  neglect.  In 
an  instant  his  resolution  was  taken.  “  Lie  down  !”  he 
shouted  to  his  boy,  and  the  child  happily  accustomed  to 
obedience,  promptly  threw  himself  on  the  ground,  and 
the  whole  train  thundered  over  him,  the  passengers  little 
dreaming  how  much  their  safety  had  cost  that  father. 
The  trembling  man  rushed  forward,  fearing  to  find  only 
a  mangled  corpse,  but  no  words  can  express  his  joy  at 
seeing  his  child  alive  and  unharmed.  The  next  day,  the 
king  having  heard  of  the  circumstance,  sent  for  the  man 
and  presented  him  the  Medal  of  Honor  for  his  heroism. 

Tougli  Pies.— Army  pies  are  so  terribly  tough  that 
soldiers  call  (hem  leather-pies,  A  poor  fellow  of  Grant’s 
Army,  probably  a  shoemaker  formerly,  whose  arm  had 
just  been  amputated,  was  being  carried  past  a  “stand” 
the  other  day  where  an  old  woman  w.-is  selling  pies,  when 
he  raised  himself  in  the  ambulance  and  called  out, 

“  I  say  old  ladv,  are  those  pies  sewed  or  pegged  ?” 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


91 


(Business  notices  $1  ‘25  per  line  of  space,) 

Advertise  II  tob.i  sure  of  iasertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  lOth  of  the  preceding  month. 

^  iV.  Adverlisiement  of  Patent  Medicines  or  secret 

••cmedie-'^  desired.  Parties  unknown  to  the  Editors  perso7ial- 
fy  or  h//  reputation,  are.  reqne-'ited  to  furnish  good  references. 
ITe?  d^ish'e  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  will  do  what  theg  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  lip  living  up  to  these  requiremenU,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers^ 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves. 

P.  HISSEIiE.  & 

lSa.i*ilbi*4l,  CouM. 

'Oanlsei's  and  I>ealer*s  isn 
GOVERNMENT  SECURITIES. 

U.  S.  5-30  and  other  Bonds  bought  and  sold  on  the  most 
favorable  terms.  7  3-10  Notes  ready  for  delivery,  and  a 
discount  allowed.  Purchasers  are  assured  that  we  will  fur¬ 
nish  Government  Bonds  on  as  favorable  terms  as  they  can 
get  them  from  New  York. 

CONNECTICUT  STATE  BONDS,  HAKTFOnD  CITY 
BONDS,  and  a  laige  assortment  of  first  class  securities  on 
hand  for  sale  at  all  times. 

The  highest  possible  premium  paid  for  Gold  and  Silver  and 
U.  S.  Coupons,  also  for  Coupons  not  yet  due.  We  are  also 
Agents  for  the  Government  for  the  sale  of  Bevenue  Stamps 
of  all  kinds.  Interest  allowed  on  deposits  from  the  date  of 
deposit  till  date  of  witlidrawal. 

Tlie  long  and  successful  Banking  experience  of  the  Senior 
partner  of  our  house  (extending  over  a  period  of  nearly 
twenty  years),  and  our  rigid  adlierence  to  the  principles  of 
Bound  Banking,  enable  us  to  give  the  gre.vtest  facilities  to 
our  customers,  and  warrant  us  in  saying  tliat  it  is  our  aim 
to  Imve  our  House  rank  second  to  no  Banking  establishment 
In  tlie  country  for  soundness  and  stability. 

Business  sent  us  by  mail  will  receive  the  same  prompt  at¬ 
tention  that  is  given  to  tliose  who  come  in  person. 

GBO.  P.  BISSSLIi  &  CO. 

5  KETCHUM  SON  &  CO.,  New-York. 
ueieis  to  j  HAUTFOKD  BANK,  Hartford,  Conn. 

'  15.  Iv-  BLISS, 

Seed.  Oatalogiie  and 

Gaide  to  tUe  Plowcr  and  Kitchen  Garden. 


The  ElevcntU  Edition  enlarged  and  improved,  just 
puhlislied,  contains  One  flundred  Pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  with  many  beautiful  illustrations, 
and  a  descriptive  list  of  upward  of  Two  Thousand 
varieties  of  Flower  and  Vegetable  Seeds,  in¬ 
cluding  many  charming  novelties,  now  offered  for 
the  fli-st  time  in  tliis  country,  with  explicit  directions  for 
their  culture,  also  a  list  of  upwards  of 

One  Hundred  varieties  of  French  Hybrid 
Gladiolus,  and  otlier  Summer  Flowering  Bulbs— 
to  wlilch  is  added  a  list  of  a  few  of  the  choicest  varieties  of 
Grapes,  Strawberries,  Baspberries,  and  other 
small  Fruits,  Bedding  Plants,  etc.,  etc.,  culti¬ 
vated  at  his  gardens ;  with  much  other  useful  information 
upon  tiie  subject  of  gardening  generally,  which  will  be  found 
useful  to  tlie  amateurs,  as  well  as  tiiose  who  are  about  to 
commence  tlie  delightful  occupation  of  gardening.  In  con¬ 
sequence  of  tlie  great  advance  in  the  cost  of  paper,  printing, 
etc.,  we  can  not  offer  it  gratuitously,  excepting  to  our 
REGULAR  cusTO.WERS.  It  Will  be  mailed  post  paid  to  all  ap¬ 
plicants  enclosing  25  cents. 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 

Connecticut  Seed  Leaf  Tobacco  Seed. 

sure  and  get  tlie  Best. 

A  superior  lot  raised  expressly  for  tlie  subscriber  by  one 
of  the  most  successful  cultivators  in  the  Valley  of  the  Con¬ 
necticut.— Packets  with  full  directiOTis  for  culture,  curing, 
packing,  cCc.,  will  be  mailed,  post-paid,  to  all  applicants  at 
the  following  rates:  1  ounce,  50  cents:  4  ounces,  $1.50  ;  1 
pound,  $.5.  Address  15.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Wliat  Every  one  Having  a  Garden  Shonld  Bny. 

One  of  PARR’S  GARDEM  CHESTS,  fitted  with 
Hie  most  approved  gardening  implements  in  ordinary  use. 
The  articles  requiring  a  long  handle  such  as  Grafting  Saw, 
Tree  Scraper,  Hoes,  Kake,  &c.,  are  all  made  to  fit  into  an 
Improved  screw  jointed  handle,  jointed  in  lengths  to  fit  in 
the  Chest. 

Parr’S  Horticultural  Cliest. 

A  larger  size  of  the  above  with  drawers  and  partitions  to 
contain  seeds,  &c. 

Parr’s  Children’s  Garden  Setts. 

Consisting  of  Hoe,  Kake,  Spade  and  Garden  Fork  with 
long  handles  also. 

Tool  Cbests  of  all  sizes,  with  tools  suitable  for  farmers 
use. 

For  sale  by  all  respectable  Dealers  in  Hardware,  Yankee 
Notions  and  Agricultural  Implements  and  seeds  whose  atten¬ 
tion  is  called  to  the  immense  demand  for  these  goods. 

Send  for  Illustrated  Circular  to  the  Manufacturer. 

GEO.  PARK,  Buflalo,  N.  T. 

Economical  Housekeepers  Use 

Pyle’s  Saleratns.  Pyle’s  Cream  Tartar. 
Pyle’s  Baking  Soda.  Pyle’s  O.  K.  Soap. 
Pyle’s  Blueing  Powder.  Pyle’s  Stove  Pol¬ 
ish.  Articles  designed  for  all  who  want  the  best  goods, 
full  weight.  Sold  by  best  Grocers  everywhere.  Each 
package  bears  the  name  of  JAMES  PYLE,  Manufac¬ 
turer,  New-York. 

«EEDS  OF  ALL  KINDS  BY  MAIL.  B.  M. 
^WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass, 


Just  Published. 

WOODWARD’S  COUNTRY  HOMES, 

ANEW,  PRACTICAL  and  ORIGINAL  WORK  ON 
BUBAL  AKCHSTECTUKE, 

BY  GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Architects. 
Elegantly  Illustrated,  with  Designs  and  Plans  of  Houses 
of  moderate  cost,  and  a  full  Illustrated  description  of  the 
manner  of  constructing  Balloon  Frames. 

12  mo.  Price  $l  50,  post-paid  to  any  address. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Publishers, 

37  Park  Row,  New  York, 
Office  of  the  Horticulturist. 


The  March  Number  of  the  Twentieth  Annual  Vol¬ 
ume  of 

«  the  HORTICULTUKBST,” 

Now  Ready,  contains  the  2nd  paper  from  the  Author  of 
“  MY  FARM  OF  EDGEWOOD,”  Illustrated,  and  oth¬ 
er  articles  from  tlie  best  practical  writers.  East  and  West, 
on  Grape  Culture, 

Fruits, 

Flowers,  Gardening, 

Rural  Architecture,  and  Landscape  Adornment.  Two 
Dollars  and  Fifty  cents  per  Annum.  Twenty  five  cents 
per  number.  Volume  1864,  bound  and  post-paid,  and 
numbers  1865,  $4  50.  Volumes  1862,  1863  &  1864,  bound 
and  post-paid,  and  numbers  1865,  $8. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Publislier.s, 

37  Park  Row,  New  York. 


Specimen  Copies  sent  free  of  postage  on  receipt  of  the 
price.  The  AGRICULTURIST  and  DEMOKEST’S  MONTH¬ 
LY  one  year  for  $3  75.  Tlie  Splendid  March  No.  with  Bril¬ 
liant  and  Extraordinary  Novelties,  and  Splendid  Spring 
Fashions  now  Ready.  Back  No.’s  as  specimens  10c.  post  free. 


EVERY  EAMILY 

SHOULD  HAVE 

Web§ter’s  New  Hietionary, 

WITH  3000  ILLUSTRATIONS. 

Call  and  examine,  at  any  Book  Stores. 

The  New  Illustrated  Edition  op  Webster’s  Dic¬ 
tionary. — This  seemingly  dry  and  certainly  ponderous  book 
has  its  peculiar  charms.  Here  is  collected  and  tersely  set 
down,  a  vast  quantity  of  various  and  useful  knowledge,  such 
as  is  indispensable  to  educated  men  and  women.  Here  are 
an  hundred  and  fourteen  thousand  words,  dedined  with  a 
clearness,  fullness,  precision  and  wealth  of  illustration,  that 
denote  the  soundest  scholarship,  and  the  most  entire  fidelity 
to  laborious  details. 

Altogether  the  work  is  a  marvelous  specimen  of  learning, 
taste,  and  thorough  labor.  We  praise  it  heartily,  because 
we  believe  it  deserves  the  heartiest  praise.— At  F.  Albion, 
Published  by  G.  &  C.  MERRIAM,  Springfield,  Mass. 

Sold  by  all  Booksellers. 


Fort  Edward  Collegiate  Institute. 

Send  for  latest  Catalogue  of  the  best  sustained  Boarding 
Seminary  in  the  State  or  Nation.  Superior  accommodations 
at  moderate  rates.  Graduating  Course  for  Ladies  as  well  as 
Gentlemen.  Thorough  Commercial  College  Course,  one, 
two,  or  three  terms  for  $25.  Languages,  Music  and  Painting 
equal  to  the  best.  Spring  Term,  March  23d. 

Address  Rev.  JOSEPH  E.  KING,  D.  D., 

Fort  Edward,  N.  Y. 

Brown’s  Bronebial  Troebes,  for  Pul¬ 
monary  and  Asthmatic  Disorders,  have  proved  their 
efficacy  by  a  test  of  many  years,  and  have  received 
testimonials  from  eminent  men  who  have  used  them. 

Those  who  are  suffering  from  Coughs,  Colds,  Hoarse¬ 
ness,  Sore  Throat,  &c.,  should  try  “  The  Troches,”  a 
simple  remedy  which  is  in  almost  every  case  effectual. 


6b  -JT  WILL  BAT.”— AGENTS  WANTED  to 
•^■sell  How  to  Write,  Talk,  Behave  and  do  Business. 
$2.25.  Send  stamp  for  particulars,  to  MESSRS.  FOW¬ 
LER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New-York, 


H.  II.  LLOYII  ^  CO., 

21  JOHN  STREET,  NEW-YORK., 

Publish  the  Largest,  Latest,  Cheapest,  and  most  At¬ 
tractive  and  Reliable,  salable  Assortment  of  Colored 

MAPS,  CHARTS,  AND  PRINTS, 

To  suit  the  Times,  to  be  had  in  this  Country. 

UNUSUAU  OFFERS  TO  AGENTS. 
SEVERAL  NEW  WORKS  JUST  OUT. 

A  CARD. 

Reasons  which  are  well  known  and  appreciated  a  I  the 
office  of  the  Agriculturist,  compel  us  to  advertise  that 
we  have  no  relationship,  and  never  had  business  connec¬ 
tion  or  acquaintance  of  any  kind  wiialevcr  with  a  person 
vvlio  advertises  maps  under  the  name  “  J.  T.  Lloyd.” 
We  do  not  wisli  sub.soribers  to  pay  for  ouii  maps  before 
receiving  them. 

Editors  who  feel  called  upon  to  notice  him,  as  many 
have  of  late,  will  do  us  only  justice  liy  inserting  after  his 
name  “  (not  H.  H.  Lloyd  &  Co.,  21  Joi^  St.,  N.  Y.)” 
because  mankind  are  prone  lo  forget  initial  letters,  and 
many  old  friends  have  supposed  us  to  be  tlie  party  aimed 
at  by  the  Tribune  and  other  papers.  As  a  partv  well 
known  to  Editors  and  Publisliers,  we  refer  to  Mes.vrs.  S. 
M.  Pettengill  &  Co.,  Newspaper  Advertising  Agents,  37 
Park  Row,  New-York. 


The  Patent  dewing-  Klpiica* 

Takes  out  a  seam  faster  than  a  sew'ing  machine  can 
make  it,  witli  less  danger  of  cutting  than  by  knife  oi 
scissors.  It  rips  machine  or  hand  sewing  equally  well. 
Every  Lady  wants  one.  Great  chance  for  Agents. 

Frice  Fifty  Cents,  sent  post  paid,  by  mail.  Lib¬ 
eral  discount  by  the  dozen. 

Address  H.  LEE,  111  Fulton-st.,  New-York  City. 

YOUNG  MEN  AND  MEN  OP 
MIDDLE  AGE  WANTED. 

By  an  arrangement  witli  gentlemen  at  Washington,  and 
through  agencies  established  in  different  cities,  I  am  now 
prepared  to  furnish  lucrative  and  honorable  situations 
for  every  young  man,  or  man  of  middle  age,  who  com¬ 
pletes,  (in  a  thorougli,  satisfactory  manner,)  the  course  of 
ACTUAL  BUSINESS  TRAINING  at  Eastman  Nation¬ 
al  Business  College,  Poughkeepsie,  N.  Y.  But  a  small 
portion  of  those  who  graduate  desire  the  assistance  of  the 
College  in  this  matter,  and  the  demand  for  Spring  and 
Summer  business  is  greater  than  the  supply.  The  great 
preference  exhibited  by  the  business  community  for  those 
who  qualify  at  this  Institution,  is  owing  to  the  fact  of 
their  being  so  tiioroughly  drilled  in  ACTUAL  BUSI 
NESS  OPERATIONS.  It  is  this  tliat  lias  given  tlie 
College  such  wide  spread  reputation,  and  placed  it  so  far 
in  advance  of  all  the  Commercial  or  Business  Schools. 
Reference  is  given  to  two  hundred  graduates  now  in  the 
Government  Departments  at  Washington,  more  than  four 
hundred  in  banks,  offices,  and  mercantile  establishments 
in  the  city  of  New-York,  and  to  Merchants,  Book-keep¬ 
ers,  Accountants,  Salesmen,  Telegraph  Operators,  and 
Business  Men  in  the  different  Cities,  who  have  been 
PRACTICALLY  educated  here.  Associations  of  the 
graduates  have  been  formed  in  Boston,  Wasliington, 
Chicago,  Philadelphia,  New-York,  and  other  cities.  The 
entire  expense  of  the  Course,  Including  Board,  Tuition 
Fee,  and  incidentals,  is  from  $80  to  $90.  Applicants  are 
admitted  at  any  time.  Full  particulars  m.ay  be  had  by 
addressing.  H.  G.  EASTMAN, 

President  National  Business  College, 

Poughkeepsie,  N.  Y. 

OR  SALE — or  to  let  for  a  terra  of  years — 12 

acres  adapted  to  fruit,  in  the  best  fruit  district  In  New 
Jersey.  House,  commodious  and  genteel,  good  barn  and 
shed,  &c.  Price,  $10,000.  Kent  House  and  K  of  tlie  land  $500. 
Apply  to  “  W.,”  Lane’s  Agency,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York. 


Farm  for  sale. — The  subscriber  offers  for 

sale  his  farm  located  on  the  Amsterdam  and  Galway 
stage  route,  two  miles  ft'om  Amsterdam,  N.  Y.  Containing 
about  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land,  fifteen  of  which 
are  timber.  For  further  particuirrs  inquire  of  tlie  subscri¬ 
ber  on  the  premises.  DAVID  MARSELUS. 

Refers  to  Jno.  McDonald,  Esq.,  Prest.  Bank  of  Amsterdam. 

WATER  POWER  FOR  SALE.— One  of  the  best 

in  Sullivan  Co..  Factory  50x25  feet:  1st  class  Dwelling. 
Blacksmith's  Shop,  about  12  acres  of  land ;  valuable  contract 
for  timber.  Near  Delaware  and  Hudson  Canal,  and  N.  Y, 
and  Erie  K.  R.  Address  O.  E.  CRANDALL,  Monticello,  N.Y. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mabch, 


Alnch  attention  is  diroctect  to  Soiitnern  Illinci'^.  cn 


How  to  Get  a  Farm,  and  Where  to  Find 
One. 

Tlip  following  intrresting  article  on  “  Illinois:,  its  Cli¬ 
mate,  Soil,  ami  Productions",  wliicli  we  take  from  a 
work  just  pultlislied  by  J.  Miller,  and  for  sale  by  D. 
Appleton  <fe  Co.,  entitled.  "How  to  Get  a  Farm,  and 
Wliere  to  Get  One,”  by  the  Author  of  "Ten  Acres  is 
jj  Enongh.”  is  wortliy  of  tlie  careful  perusal  of  tliose  who 
i  are  desirous  of  securing  for  themselves  and  families  a 
'*  lioine  whicli  they  can  call  their  own. 

The  IFfst — Illinois  Central  Railroad  Lands — Climate, 
Soil,  and  Productions.— The  vast  region  popularly  known 
as  "The  West,"  lias  been  so  often  travelled  by  thousands 
from  tile  older  States,  and  so  repeatedly  described  in 
print,  that  all  must  have  a  general  knowledge  of  its  char¬ 
acter  and  capabilities.  Little,  therefore,  remains  for  me 
on  tliese  subjects,  than  a  compilation  of  details  appro- 
pri.ate  to  tlie  matter  in  hand— v\ here  to  find  a. farm. 

In  tlie  very  heart  of  tlie  great  valley,  midway  between 
the  Arctic  and  tlie  Tropic,  tlie  Atlantic  and  the  Rocky 
Mountains,  lies  the  State  of  Illinois,  the  young  Hercules 
of  llie  West,  f^uching  Lake  Michigan  on  the  north,  and 
the  lower  Ohio  on  the  soutli,  with  the  majestic  Mississippi 
wasliing  iter  entire  western  border,  and  the  Wabash  skirt¬ 
ing  lier  for  more  than  half  its  lengtli  on  the  east.  Her 
growth,  during  the  last  decade,  lias  been  really  more 
rapid  and  considerable  tiian  that  of  any  other  State, 
tliougii  some  of  the  newest  have  increased  in  population 
liy  a  larger  percentage  tiian  hers.  Her  population  has 
all  but  doubled  during  the  last  decade,  having  risen  from 
some  900,000  to  about  1.700,000.  *  *  *  *  * 

In  1850  Congress  granted  to  tlic  Illinois  Central  Rail¬ 
road  Company  2,595,000  acres  of  land  to  aid  in  building  a 
railroad,  wliich  would  soon  open  up  for  sale  and  settle- 
inpiit  a  much  greater  adjoining  area  belonging  to  Govern¬ 
ment  ;  the  quality  of  the  land  being  undoubted,  it  being 
prairie  and  rolling  land  of  well  ascertained  fertility.  *  * 
Three  years  after  tlie  Central  Railroad  Company  began 
their  operations,  their  sales  of  land  amounted  to  1.312,373 
acres,  realizing  a  total  sum  of  $1(1,663,823.  The  terms  of 
sale  are  probably  more  liberal  than  are  elsewhere  to  be 
found.  Had  they  been  otherwise,  it  would  have  been 
impossible  to  attract  to  a  new  and  wholly  unsettled 
country  tlie  largest  body  of  settlers  ever  voluntarily  col- 
Iccled  on  one  spot  within  so  short  a  period.  The  buyer 
'  has  ids  clioice  among  a  million  of  acres,  still  unsold,  and 
may  t.ake  land  at  from  $7  to  $12  and  upward  per  acre, 
according  to  location.  He  may  pay  for  it  in  cash,  if  able 
to  do  so,  and  thus  obtain  a  discount  of  twenty  per  cent. ; 
jir  he  may  take  land  and  be  allowed  four,  five,  six,  and 
seven  years  in  which  to  pay  for  it,  but  paying  the  interest 
yearly  in  advance.  He  may  buy  as  small  a  tract  as  forty 
acres,  or  one  as  much  larger  as  his  means  will  justify. 

The  land  grant  to  this  Company  was  the  first  public 
graluity  in  aid  of  railroads.  When  first  made,  tlie  central 
portion  of  Illinois  was  an  unoccupied  prairie,  as  fertile 
as  any  soil  in  the  world,  but  wholly  unavailable.  It  now 
swarms  with  population,  that  along  the  railroad  having 
trebled  within  ten  years.  Great  towns  have  sprung  up 
along  its  track,  and  the  annual  growth  of  population  and 
wealth  is  enormous.  Here  the  enterprising  man  will  be 
sure  to  find  a  farm,  and  tlie  Railroad  Company  will  show 
liim  liow  to  get  it.  Their  road  is  704  miles  in  length,  .and 
extends  from  Cairo,  in  the  extreme  southern  part  of  the 
Slate,  to  Diinleitli,  in  the  northwest,  with  a  branch  from 
Centr.alia,  in  the  centre,  to  Chicago,  on  the  shore  of  Lake 
Michigan.  For  all  the  purposes  of  agriculture,  tliese 
lands  are  equal  to  any  in  the  world,  producing  wheat, 
barley  and  oats  in  the  north  ;  corn  and  wheat  in  the  cen¬ 
tre  ;  and  wheat,  tobacco,  and  cotton  in  the  south.  In 
all  parts  of  the  State  vast  numbers  of  live  stock  are  pro¬ 
duced.  A  healthy  climate,  a  rich  soil,  and  railroads  to 
convey  to  market  the  fulness  of  the  earth— ail  combine 
to  place  in  the  hands  of  the  working  man  the  means  of 
independence.  Nowhere  can  the  farmer,  the  mechanic, 
the  manufacturer,  and  the  laboring  man,  find  surer 
rewards  of  industry.  With  12,000  common  schools,  SI 
colleges,  48  academies,  and  a  liberal  fund  for  the  support 
of  learning,  Illinois  offers  the  means  of  education  such 
as  few  States  can  boast.  All  the  conditions  favorable  to 
prosperity  are  to  be  found  here. 

The  climate  of  Illinois  is  healthy,  and  the  mortality  is 
less  than  in  almost  any  other  part  of  the  country.  The 
immigrant  seeking  a  location  regards  the  healthfulncss 
of  the  district  as  a  matter  of  primary  consideration,  and 
Illinois,  so  far  as  its  sanitary  condition  is  concerned, 
ranks  wilh  tlie  most  favored  States  of  the  Union.  The 
vital  statistics  collected  in  1860  show  tliat  in  this  State 
the  deaths  per  cent,  to  the  population  were  in  that  year 
inly  1.14.  while  the  average  of  the  whoie  country  was 
1.27.  Extending  380  miles  from  north  to  south,  Illinois 
has  all  the  varieties  of  climate  to  be  found  between 
lloston,  in  Massachusetts,  and  Norfolk,  in  Virginia;  in 
the  southern  part,  the  genial  climate  of  Virginia,  Ken¬ 
tucky.  and  Tennessee,  and  in  the  northem  section  more 


nearly  resembling  that  of  Pennsylvania,  Southern  New 
York,  New  Jersey  and  Connecticut. 

The  soil  in  the  different  parts  of  the  State  presents  very 
marked  characteristics.  From  the  latitude  of  Chicago  as 
far  south  as  the  Terre  Haute  and  Alton  Railroad,  the 
country  for  the  most  part  is  open  prairies,  with  here  and 
there  groves  of  timber,  and  timbered  on  the  banks  of  the 
various  streams.  The  soil  in  this  region  consists  of  a 
rich,  black  loam,  and  is  remarkably  adapted  to  the  pro¬ 
duction  of  corn,  sorglium  and  tame  grasses.  For  stock- 
raising  no  better  land  can  be  found.  South  of  this  line 
the  soil  is  lighter,  and  of  a  grayish  tinge— the  country  is 
also  more  broken,  and  the  timber  more. plentiful.  The 
small  prairies  in  this  region  produce  the  best  of  winter 
wheat,  tobacco,  flax,  and  hemp.  From  Centraliato  Cairo, 
in  the  south,  the  country  is  heavily  timbered.  In  this 
district  fruit,  tobacco,  cotton,  and  tlie  different  produc¬ 
tions  of  the  Border  States,  are  largely  cultivated  and 
liighly  remunerative.  A  large  number  of  sawmills  are 
erected  near  the  line  of  the  railroad,  the  lumber  from 
which  commands  at  all  times  a  ready  sale. 

Indian  corn  is,  perhaps,  the  most  important  crop  in  the 
country.  It  is  applied  to  so  great  a  variety  of  purposes, 
and  is  so  indispensable  an  article  for  foreign  consump¬ 
tion,  that  however  abundantly  it  may  be  produced,  the 
constantly  increasing  demand  will  press  heavily  upon 
tlie  supply.  In  1859  the  United  States  yielded  827,694.528 
bushels,  of  which  Illinois  contributed  115,296,779,  about 
fifty  millions  of  bushels  more  than  any  other  Stale.  Illi¬ 
nois  stands  pre-eminently  first  in  the  list  of  corn  pro-  . 
ducing  States. 

For  the  culture  of  wheat,  the  lands  of  tlie  Illinois  Cen¬ 
tral  Railroad  are  in  all  respects  equal  to  any  in  tlie  State. 
One  great  advantage  which  these  lands  have,  is  tlieir 
nearness  to  the  railroad,  by  which  the  purchaser  has  the 
means  of  putting  his  crop  in  the  market  at  the  earliest 
or  most  favorable  time,  and  at  a  cheap  rate  of  transpor¬ 
tation.  During  the  year  1862,  the  stations  on  this  road 
sent  forward  to  market  4,688,755  bushels  of  wheat,  besides 
567,627  barrels  of  flour.  In  Southern  Illinois,  winter 
wheat  is  almost  certain  to  yield  a  good  return  to  the 
grower.  The  reaping,  threshing,  and  cleaning  macliines, 
now  so  generally  in  use,  have  made  wheilt-growing  a 
source  of  great  profit  to  the  farmer. 

It  seems  well  established  that  cotton  is  to  become  a 
remunerative  crop  in  the  southern  part  of  Illinois.  It 
was  cultivated  in  1862  in  almost  every  town  south  of  Cen- 
tralia,  and,  if  we  regard  the  planting  as  an  experiment, 
the  result  is  completely  satisfactory.  It  would  be  a  low 
estimate  to  assume  that  in  that  year  5,000  bales  of  ginned 
cotton  were  grown.  There  was  a  large  demand  made 
upon  the  neighboring  States  (particularly  Tennessee)  for 
cotton  seed,  and  more  than  one  hundred  tons  had  been 
sent  forward  from  Cairo  and  distributed. 

The  rapidly-increasing  cultivation  of  sorghum  in  this 
country  deserves  particular  notice.  In  another  year  Illi¬ 
nois  w  ill  send  to  the  eastern  market  thousands  of  barrels 
of  sorghum  molasses,  besides  retaining  sufficient  for 
home  consumption.  In  1859  this  State  produced  797,096 
gallons,  and  at  that  time  attention  had  only  just  been 
directed  to  sorghum.  Since  then  its  cultivation  has  been 
increased  tenfold.  A  prgminent  sugar  refiner  estimates 
the  annual  consumption  of  molasses  in  the  United  States 
.at  80,000,000  gallons,  and  of  this  vast  quantity  of  sweets, 
it  is  safe  to  say  the  free  States  consume  60,000,000  gallons. 
He  goes  on  to  say :  “This  enormous  and  increasingepn- 
sumption  of  molasses  and  syrups  in  our  Northern  States 
should  encourage  the  western  cane  growers  in  their 
efforts  to  produce  crops  of  western  cane  syrups,  with  the 
certainty  that  they  will  find  a  ready  sale  for  all  that  will 
be  produced  of  mercliantable  quality  and  in  good 
packages.” 

Hemp  and  flax  can  be  produced  in  Illinois  of  as  good  a 
quality  as  any  grown  in  Europe.  Water  rotted  hemp 
from  as  far  north  as  Sangamon  County,  when  submitted 
to  Government  tests,  compared  favorably  wilh  Russian 
hemp,  and  exceeded  in  strength  the  standard  fixed  by 
the  Government,  in  some  instances  as  high  as  twenty  per 
cent.  Good  corn  lands  are  good  hemp  and  flax  lands, 
and,  therefore,  we  may  safely  conclude  lliat  Illinois 
can  produce  these  important  articles  much  cheaper  than 
they  can  be  imported.  If  the  fabrication  of  linen  goods 
lias  made  but  little  progress  in  this  country,  it  is  be¬ 
cause  the  raw  material  has  been  grown  in  but  limited 
quantities.  In  many  parts  of  the  West,  farmers  have 
raised  flax  simply  for  the  seed,  and  thrown  away  the 
fibre  as  valueless,  under  the  mistaken  idea  that  flax 
which  produced  seed  could  not  be  worked  into  fine  linen. 
In  the  Chicago  market,  hemp  and  flaxseed  are  now  sold 
at  from  three  to  five  dollars  per  bushel.  The  Lockport 
(N.  Y.)  Flax  Cotton  Company  have  contracted  with  as 
many  farmers  of  Niagara  County  as  desired  to  do  so, 
for  their  crops  of  flax  straw  at  $10  per  ton.  In  Illinois, 
wilh  heavy  seeding,  twenty  bushels  of  seed  and  three 
tons  of  flax  .straw  have  been  gathered  from  an  acre.  This 
was  an  extraordinary  yield.  Tlie  average  crop  in  Nia¬ 
gara  County.  New-York,  in  1862,  was  one  ton  of  straw 
and  fourteen  bushels  of  seed  to  the  acre. 


count  of  its  peculiar  :idapi:itiioi  (o  fruit  rai>irig.  U  lias  I  ' 
the  advantage  of  early  season,  as  well  as  a  soil  espe¬ 
cially  suited  to  (lie  growing  of  fruits  and  vegetables,  to-  '| 
gether  with  unequalled  railmaxl  facilities,  liy  means  of  ] 
which  the  product  is  brouglil  to  the  very  door  of  ail  tlie 
great  markets  of  tlie  Northwest.  Fruit  placed  upon  tlie 
cars  in  the  evening  will  reacli  Chicago  tlie  next  morning.  ' 
St.  Louis  is  still  nearer  than  Chicago;  and  strawberries,  i 
tomatoes,  &c.,  are  supplied  to  Cincinnati  nearly  a  fort-  1 
night  in  advance  of  the  ripening  of  these  luxuries  in  the 
immediate  neighborhood  of  tliat  city.  It  is  the  early  mar¬ 
ket  that  gives  the  greatest  profit  to  the  fruit  grovser.  | 
Strawberries  from  Cobden  and  Makanda  are  placed  in  I 
Chicago  as  early  as  the  14th  of  May.  The  Railroad  Com-  | 
pany  supply  every  convenience  for  transporting  fruit  to  ; 
market.  Cars  are  run  wilh  especial  reference  to  this 
branch  of  traffic,  and  the  time  of  running  Ihe  trains  is  .sc 
adju.'ted  as  best  to  suit  the  requirements  of  shippers. 
Southern  Illinois  has  become  the  best  fruit-growing  re¬ 
gion  of  America.  While  every  part  of  Illinois  is  to  some  j 

extent  adapted  to  fruit  culture,  it  is  only  in  the  south-  I 

ern  part  of  tlie  Slate  that  all  conditions  are  found  in  the  | 
highest  perfection.  Pears,  apples,  peaches,  grapes  and  [ 

strawberries,  are  produced  in  all  abundance.  During  the  \ 

last  year,  upwards  of  200,000  fruit  frees  were  planted  in  ij 
orchards  south  of  Centralia,  witliin  six  miles  of  tlie  rail-  1 
road  track;  hut  no  matter  to  what  extent  they  may  lie 
multiplied,  the  demand  for  fruit  will  always  be  in  ad-  | 
vance  of  the  capacity  to  furnish  what  is  wanted.  |' 

Pork  packing  has  become  an  immense  business  in  this  ■ 

State,  the  number  of  hogs  packed  in  1S62  amonnling  to  / 

1,484,834  liead,  half  a  million  in  exce^is  of  Oliio,  wtiicti  | 

until  tlie  last  year  or  two  has  stood  first  among  tlie  [lork-  I 

producing  States.  The  following  talile,  giving  the  num¬ 
ber  of  hogs  packed  in  seven  States  in  1862,  shows  a  won¬ 
derful  result ;  , 

Kentucky .  136.920  '' 

Wisconsin...  .  196.745 

Missouri .  284.011 

Total . 4";0C9Tg^  , 

Illinois  is  the  great  stock-rai.'ing  Stale  of  the  country—  ' 
sending  two  thousand  head  of  beef  cattle  a  week  to  the 
New-York  market.  In  the  census  return  of  18.50  tlie  live  ' 

stock  in  Illinois  it  ad  a  valnalion  of  $24,209,258,  and  in  | 

1860  it  had  increased  to  $73,434,621 — only  two  Stales  \ 

(New-York  and  Pennsylvania)  exceeding  tliat  amount  of  ' 

value.  The  raising  of  stock  for  market  has  been  the 
source  of  many  fortunes  in  Illinois.  The  Company  have  ' 
large  tracts  of  land  well  adapted  by  nature  to  the  r.ai.'- 
ing  of  cattle,  sheep,  horses  and  mules— letter  adapted, 
indeed,  than  are  the  lands  <if  almost  any  other  State  of  ' 
the  Union.  During  the  year  1862,  the  Illinois  Centra! 
Railroad  brought  to  Chicago,  from  various  stations  along 
the  line,  upwards  of  30,000  head  of  beef  cattle,  and  about 
10,000  sheep.  Wool-growing  is  a  branch  of  industry  that 
cannot  be  overdone  and  will  inevitably  be  largely  in-  | 
creased.  ! 

The  immense  coal  depo.sils  of  Illinoi.s  are  worked  at 
different  points  near  the  railroad,  and  thus  the  settlers 
are  enabled  to  obtain  fuel  at  the  very  clieapest  rat?. 

Du  Quoin  and  SI.  John,  in  Soiitliern  Illinois,  and  La  .Salle, 
are  the  principal  places  from  wliicli  coal  is  dislritiuted. 

The  statistics  of  coal  produced  in  Ihe  United  Stales 
for  the  year  ending  June  30,  1860,  place  Illinois  tliird  in 
the  list  of  coal  Stales— Pennsylvania  being  first,  and  Ohio 
second.  In  tlie  period  named,  tlie  coal  mined  in  this 
State  amounted  to  14,906,643  busiieis,  valued  at  more  tiian 
a  million  of  dollars.  The  production  at  the  present  time 
is  largely  in  excess  of  this  amount. 

To  whatever  extent  the  resources  of  tills  Slate  are  de¬ 
veloped.  there  can  never  he  any  very  great  accumulation 
of  breadslnffs  in  this  country.  It  is  impossible  for  Eu¬ 
rope  to  yield  enough  wlieat  for  its  three  hundred  mil¬ 
lions  of  people,  and  the  soundest  writers  upon  the  sub¬ 
ject  assert  that  even  with  the  most  favorable  harvests 
three-fourths  of  the  poiiulation  are  inadequately  feti. 

With  cheap  means  of  transportation  to  the  shores  of  the 
Old  World,  it  is  believed  that  five  hundred  million 
busiieis  of  breailstuffs  would  be  annually  purchased 
from  the  United  State.s.  But  it  is  not  alone  to  wlieat  and 
corn  that  the  export  trade  is  confined.  In  Illinois 
almost  everything  that  contributes  to  food  for  man  is 
produced  in  excess  of  the  wants  of  tlie  population,  and 
finds  a  profitable  market  in  the  Eastern  States  and  in 
Europe. 

The  Central  Railroad  Company  have  given  no  rn 
couragement  to  speculators,  few  of  whom  are  either  per¬ 
manent  or  improving  owners.  Their  effort  has  been 
to  secure  the  actual  setller  by  offering  him  extraordi¬ 
nary  inducements,  for  it  is  he  whose  labors  enhance 
the  value  of  the  neighboring  lands,  and  contribute  to  ttie 
traffic  of  the  road.  The  good  effects  of  tliis  policy  have 
long  been  apparent.  More  than  a  hundred  cities  and 
villages  now  line  tiie  railroad,  with  populations  vary¬ 
ing  from  200  to  10,000  or  more,  li.aving  factories,  mills, 
stores,  post-offices,  .schools,  churolies,  and  newspapers. 
They  rapidly  increase  in  numbers  and  wealth,  dis¬ 
tributing  the  comforts  and  luxuries  of  civilized  life  to 
the  settlers,  while  they  open  up  unitmitod  opporliinilie.* 
for  profitable  employment  to  tlie  business  man,  tlie  t?a  ler 
and  mechanic. — Appleton's  Railway  Cxiide. 


Illinois . ..1,484,834  | 

Ohio .  981.683  j 

Indiana .  587„528  | 

Iowa .  403,899  | 


1865  J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


93 


b  b  c  r  t  i  s  e  uu  n  t  s . _ 

TEK-MS—  (c.asli  lierore  insertion) ; 

One  Dnlktr  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  iiicli),  for  each  insertion. 

One  hciif  column  (TMines),  each  insertion. 

One  whole  column  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Doiiar  .and  a  Quarter  periine. 

COIiLEOTIONS  OP  FLOWER 
SEEDS  BY  MAIL. 

Tile  FOLLOWING  ASSor.TJiENTS  Iiavc  been  sent  ont  from 
tliis  Kstabiisliraent  for  the  past  Eleven  Yeaks,  and  are  fa¬ 
vorably  known  in  every  section  of  tiie  country.  They  con¬ 
tain  only  the  most  showy  varieties  of  the  easiest  cnltnre,  and 
arc  well  adapted  for  those  wlio  are  unacquainted  with  the 
different  varieties  of  flowers.  Eull  directions  for  culture 
will  accompany  eacli  package,  wliich  will  be  sent,  post-paid, 
to  any  address  in  tlie  tJnion,  at  the  following  prices: 

No.  1— Contains  twenty  choice  varieties  of  Annuals . $1  00 

No.  2—  “  “  “  of  Biennials  and  Perennials..  1  00 

No.  3— Contains  ten  e.vtra  fine  varieties  of  Annuals  and 
Perennials,  embracing  many  of  tlie  new  and  choicest 

In  cultiv.ation . .  100 

No.  4— Contains  five  very  clioice  varieties  selected  from 
Prize  Flowers  of  English  Pansies,  German  Carna¬ 
tion  and  Picotee  Pinks,  Verbenas,  Truflaut’s  French 
Asters,  Ilonble  Hollyhocks . 1  00 

Any  one  remitting  $3  00  will  receive  the  four  assortments 
postage  free. 

The  following  additional  assortments  will  also  be  sent  at 
the  prices  annexed,  free  of  postage. 

No.  5— Ciontains  fifteen  very  select  varieties  of  Green¬ 
house  Seeds . . . $3  00 

No.  0— Contains  one  hundred  varieties  of  Annuals,  Bien¬ 
nials.  and  Perennials,  including  many  new  and 

choice  varieties .  5  00 

No.  7— Contains  fifty  varieties  of  Annuals,  Biennials, 

and  Perennials .  2  50 

No.  8— Contains  twenty  varieties  of  hardy  Annuals,  Bi¬ 
ennials,  and  Perennials,  for  sowing  in  tlie  autumn. . .  1  00 

Tlie  seeds  contained  in  the  above  assortments  are  of  our 
own  selection.  Pnrcliasers  who  prefer  to  make  tlieir  selec¬ 
tion  from  the  Catalogue,  will  be  entitled  to  a  discount  pro¬ 
portionate  to  the  quantity  ordered. 

Tlie  Eleventh  Edition  of  his  celebrated  Seed  Catalogue 
and  (iuide  to  the  Flower  and  Kitchen  Garden,  containing  a 
descriptive  list  of  upwards  of  2.000  varieties  of  Flower  and 
Vegctahle  Seeds  (witli  full  directions  for  culture,)  beautifully 
Illustrated,  will  be  mailed  to  all  applicants  enclosing  85  cts. 

Address  B.  IS.  BMSS,  sps-iiigfieM,  Mass. 

Bedding  Plants,  &c.,  by  Mail. 

strong  and  healthy  Plants  of  the  following  varieties  will 
be  securely  packed  and  mailed  post-paid,  to  any  address  in 
the  United  States,  upon  receipt  of  tlie  price  affixed. 


12  Hardy  Carnatious  and  Picotees,  in  ditt’erent  varieties. 

2  50 

12  Florists’  Pinks, 

do 

do 

2  50 

12  Pompone  Chrysanthemums, 

do 

do 

2  !)0 

12  Large  Flowering  do 

do 

do 

2  ,50 

12  Double  Feverfews, 

do 

do 

2  00 

12  Fuclisias, 

do 

do 

2  50 

12  Scarlet  Geraniums, 

do 

do 

2  50 

^  Heliotropes, 

do 

do 

2  00 

12  Lantanas, 

do 

do 

2  00 

T2  Petunias, 

do 

do 

2  00 

12  Phloxes, 

do 

do 

2  (K) 

12  Pansies, 

do 

do 

2  50 

6  Salvias, 

do 

do 

1  25 

12  Dalilias,  (Pot  roots,) 

do 

do 

2  ,50 

12  Lilliput  Dahlias,  (Pot  roots,) 

do 

do 

B  00 

12  Verbenas, 

do 

do 

1  50 

25  do 

do 

do 

2  75 

8  do  New  Italian 

do 

do 

3  75 

3  Tritoma  Uvaria, 

do 

do 

1  75 

6  Pot  Hoses, 

do 

do 

2  00 

6  Hardy  Climbins:  Roses, 

do 

do 

B  00 

6  Hybrid  Perpetual, 

do 

do 

2  50 

12  Gladiolus,  finest  varieties,  mixed. , 

2  00 

12  Double  Italian  Tulieroses . 

2  00 

3  Japan  Lilies,  Rubrum,  Roseum,  Album . 

1  50 

1  Liliiim,  Auratum . . 

5  00 

MAIE  MB 


The  selection  of  varieties  to  be  left  with  us.  No  orders  rvlll 
be  filled  for  less  tlian  tlie  amount  specified.  Orders  to  be 
accompanied  witli  cash.  Address  B.  K.  BLISS, 

Springfield,  Mass. 

^plend-id.  Novelties, 

New  Wliite  JJielytrsjb.—iBieli/tra  Spectabilis  alba.) 

■We  take  much  pleasure  in  announcing  to  our  patrons  that 
after  several  ineflectual  attempts,  we  have  succeeded  in  pro¬ 
curing  this  desirable  plant;  a  white  variety  of  the  well 
known  Dielytra  Spectabilis,  wiiicli  it  resembles  in  every  re¬ 
spect,  with  the  exception  of  color  of  the  flower,  wliich  on 
first  expanding,  is  of  pure  white,  afterward  changing  to  a 
very  delicate  shade  of  blush,  forming  a  beautitul  contrast  to 
tile  original  variety.  Plants  ready  for  delivery  the  20tli  of 
April,  at  $3  00  eacli,  or  2  plants  for  §5.00,  mailed  post-paid. 

liilium  Auratum. 

New  Golden  Striped  Lily  from  Japan. 

Thus  described  by  Dr.  Bindley,  in  tlie  London  Gardeners’ 
Chronicle.  “  If  ever  a  flower  merited  the  name  of  glorious, 
it  is  tills,  whicli  stands  far  above  all  other  Lilies,  wliether  we 
regard  its  size,  its  sweetness,  or  its  exquisite  arrangement  of 
color.  From  this  delicious  flower  there  arises  the  perfume 
of  Orange  blossoms  suflicieiit  to  fill  a  largo  room,  but  so  del¬ 
icate  as  to  respect  the  weakest  nerves.”  It  is  ouite  hardy 
and  deserves  a  place  in  every  collection.  Flowering  Bulbs 
mailed  to  any  address  upon  receipt  of  $3  00. 

Address  B.  K.  BBISS,  SprimglieM,  Mass. 

Fotatoes  for  Seed. 

'  per  bush. 

Early  Stevens—A  new  variety  from  Northern  Ver¬ 
mont,  very  early,  excellent  quality,  very  productive.  $2  00 
Early  Sovereign— A  favorite  early  sort,  of  good 

quality,  keeps  well . . .  2  00 

Early  Wesnlell— One  of  the  largest  of  tiie  early  va¬ 
rieties,  very  productive,  and  uniformly  of  good  quality  2  00 
Delmaliey,  a  new  second  early  variety  from  Ireland, 

medium  size,  of  excellent  flavor,  very  productive _ 2  50 

Jackson  'Wkitc — An  excellent  second  early  sort, 
mucli  cultivated  in  NewEngland,  flesh  very  white,  and 

of  fine  flavor . 2  00 

G-ooclrick’s  Garnet  Cliili— Large,  very  productive, 

keeps  well,  fine  for  general  crop . .  2  00 

Gooclrick’s  Cuzco— White  flesh,  of  good  size  and  fla¬ 
vor,  enormously  productive .  2  00 

Packages  containing  A  Pounds  of  either  of  the  above 
rarieties  mailed  post-paid  upon  receipt  of  One  Dollar. 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


WAUfiroiL 

Fi®WEB  SEESi  HAIis  P®ST-PAI®. 

B,  IS.  BIiISS, 

SEEDSMAN  AND  FLORIST,  SPRINGFIELD,  MASS., 


"Would  invite  the  attention  of  all  lovers  ot  Flowers  to  the 
following  list,  comprising  many  of  the  choicest  varieties 
named  in  his  Catalogue,  tlie  quality  of  which  can  not  be 
surpassed.  Novelties  not  before  offered  in  tins  country. 

Agrostemma  coeli  rosa,  dwarf  fringed.  A  tine  pkt. 
variety  of  Agrostemma  coeli  rosa,  of  a  dwarf  com¬ 
pact  growth,  very  graceful  habit .  25 

Antirrliinuin  maju.s  Tom  Tliiimb.— A  very 
liandsome  dwarf  Antirrliinum,  of  compact,  globular 

growtli,  only  4  indies  high . 25 

Asters,  New  liose  Flowered— Flowers  large,  of  line  form 

a  valuable  acquisition,  ei.gbt  varieties  mixed .  25 

Asters,  New  Turban.— Leaves  dark  brown,  flowers  dark 

red  and  white  intersecting . 25 

Asters.— Original  varieties  from  China.  These  varieties 
(live  distinct  colors),  liave  been  grown  from  seed  re¬ 
ceived  direct  from  China,  and  are  very  curious  speci¬ 
mens  of  the  well  known  China  Asters . 25 

Callirlioe  luvolucra-ta.- This  splendid  Malvaceous 
plant  is  remarkable  for  the  deep  crimson  purple  color  of 
■  its  numerous  flowers,  which  are  produced  from  July  to 

October,  until  cliecked  by  frost .  25 

Campanula.  Attica.— A  profuse  flowering  very  hand¬ 
some  Campanula  from  Greece . . . 50 

Clirysaiitlrcmum  carinatiira  atrocoecini- 
um.— Blooming  in  the  most  various  shades  from  light 

scarlet  red  to  dark  blood  red . .  50 

cariiiatum  purpureum.— 

Beautiful  crimson  and  purple  \dolet  blossoms . 50 

Clirysaiitliemum  tricolor  Daimettii,  fl.  pi. — 

Snow  white .  50 

Clai-kia  lutcgripetala,  11.  pi.— The  bloom  is  very 

double,  large,  of  a  rich  magenta  color .  50 

Clarkia  pulelaella  allia,  dwarf  wiiite. — Dwarf  com¬ 
pact  habit,  very  floriferous,  and  will  prove  a  very  valua¬ 
ble  acquisition  for  borders,  etc . 25 

Cleome  Muricata. — A  new  variety  of  tliis  beautiful 

annual,  almost  wliite  blossoms . 50 

Batura  fastuosa  Iluberiaiia.— A  splendid  and 
effective  v.ariety  with  dark  purple  stolk  and  branches. .  25 
Gocletia  Bindleyaua,  11.  pi.— Color  a  rich  rosy  pur¬ 
ple,  blossoms  perfectly  double  and  produced  in  the 

greatest  profusion .  50 

Mimiilns  cupreus  liykriclus. — Flowerslarge,  well 
shaped,  spotted,  stained,  marbled,  speckled,  dotted  and 

blotched  in  the  most  striking  manner . . 50 

Gocletia  rosea  alba  Tom  Thumb.— Pure  white, 
with  a  brilliant  rose  blotch  at  the  base  of  each  petal, 

bight  1  foot,  a  profuse  bloomer . 25 

Besecla  Crystallina,  From  the  North  of  Africa, 

very  peculiar . 50 

Reciiius  nanus  microcarpus. — A  genuine  dwarf 

Recinus,  2  to  3  feet  high . 25 

Tropoeolum,  King  of  Tom  Thumbs  (Nasturti¬ 
um).— Tills  variety  is  by  far  the  finest  of  all . 50 

Tropoeolum  majus  purpureum.— Color,  rich 

plum,  verging  toward  purple .  25 

■Veronica  Glauca.— A  pretty  little  annual.  Speed¬ 
well  from  Greece .  50 

Viola  tricolor  maxima,  Fanst,  large  flowered.  New 
improved  large  flowering  of  tho  variety  Faust  intro¬ 
duced  some  years  ago .  50 

Wallflower — "Young’s  Blood  Bed.- A  charming 
deep  blood  red  variety  of  tliis  favorite  flower,  very  de¬ 
sirable .  15 

Waitegia  Aurea.— A  handsome  yellow  everlasting 

from  Swan  River .  50 

Waitegia  corymbosa.— A  variety  of  the  above,  witli 

flowers  of  reddish  purple . 50 

"Whitlavia  grandiflora  alba  possesses  all  the 
merits  of  the  grandiflora  with  the  additional  value  of 

being  pure  white  in  color . 25 

For  a  more  minute  description  and  metliod  of  culture, 
see  Catalogue.  The  collection  of  87  varieties,  §8.00. 


F5.0KSSTS’  FBOWERS. 

Raised  by  the  most  successful  growers  and  Exliihitors  in 
Europe.  pkt. 

Antirehin'UM  (Snapdragon),  finest  hybridized . 25 

Asters,  Truffaut’s  Peony  flowered,  the  finest  grown...  25 

Auricula,  from  the  finest  prize  varieties . 25 

Balsams,  Glenny’s  and  Smith’s  prize,  unequalled,  each..  25 

Bellis  Perenius,  (Double  Daisy),  a  general  favorite _ 25 

Calceolarias,  Herbaceous  and  Shruuby  varieties  saved 
from  most  beautiful  spotted  and  mottled  flowers,  each..  50 
Cinerarias,  from  the  newest  and  best  named  sorts. .... . .  50 

Cockscombs  producing  Immense  corals .  25 

Carnation  &  Picotee  Pinks,  from  named  varieties,  each  50 

do  perpetual  flowering  for  pot  culture . 50 

Geraniums,  Scarlet,  from  finest  variegated  foliaged  vars.  25 
do  from  finest  English  and  French  prize  flowers.  50 

Gladiolus,  from  a  collection  of  125  varieties . 25 

Gloxinias,  from  the  finest  erect  and  drooping  varieties..  50 
Hollyhocks,  from  our  own  collection  of  75  varieties  pro¬ 
ducing  flowers  fully  doubled  of  every  shade  of  color...  25 

Lantana,  from  named  flowers . 25 

Mimulus,  from  the  finest  new  hybridized  varieties . 25 

Pansies,  from  tlie  finest  English  showy  flowers . 50 

do  New  Fancy,  beautifully  edged  marbled  and  varieg’d.  50 
do  Blue,  Yellow,  "VVliite,  Black,  Bronze,  Striped  yellow 
margined,  Violet,  bordered  with  white,  marbled  pur¬ 
ple,  In  separate  packets . each. .  25 

The  collection  of  11  varieties  of  Pansies . |2  50 


Petunias,  Double,  carefully  Iiybridized  by  a  noted  Ger¬ 
man  Florist . 25 

Petunias,  Buchanan's  Hybrid,  from  tlie  finest  mottled 

and  variegated  varieties .  25 

Portulacca,  New  Double,  in  manv  colors,  producing 
flowers  as  double  as  Roses,  a  most  desirable  acquisilion  50 
Primula  Sinensis  (Cliiiiese  Primrose),  saved  from  tlie 

finest  fringed  varieties.  Rose  and  "White .  .50 

Stocks,  New  German,  large  flowering,  finest  mixed . 25 

do  Scarlet  and  White  Intermediate,  Count  Gasden  va 

riety . each..  25 

do  New  White  Wall-flower  leaved,  fine  for  pots . 25 

Sweet  Williams,  Hunt's  Perfection  and  Auricula 
FLOWERED,  beautifully  margined,  laced  and  mottled, 

unequalled  for  beauty . each...  23 

Tropieolum,  Unest  hybridized  bedding  varieties  of  every 

shade .  25 

Tropoeolusi  Lobbianum,  and  its  liybrids  for  grcen-liouse 

culture,  many  colors  mixed . ‘i> 

Wallflowers,  finest  double,  much  improved.. . .  25 

The  foregoing  collection  of  44:  varieties  for . SID. WO. 

Seeds  for  the  Farm  and  Garden. 

The  following  seeds,  the  purity  and  vitality  of  avliicli  can 
be  confidently  recommended,  will  be  mailed,  posl-pahl,  to 
any  address  in  the  United  States,  upon  receipt  of  tlie  price 
aflixed. 

Beets— Early  Bassano . . 

Early  Blood  Turnip,  Orange  Turnip, 

Long  Blood . 15 

"Wliite  Sugar,  Long  lied.  Yellow  Globe, 

Alangel .  10 

Cabbage— Early  York,  Large  Y"ork,  Drum¬ 
head . 

Sugar  Loaf  Bergen  Drumliead. .. 

Premium  Elat  Dutcli,  Red  Dutch, 

Wakefield..  . 35 

Freiicli  Ox  Heart,  Stone  Mason,  Pome- 

rain . 

Drumhead  Savoy,  Green  Globe  Mason, 

Victoria  Pomerain . 

Improved  American  Drumliead  Savoy, 

extra .  30 

Winiiiiigstadt,  Little  Pixie,  New  Dwarf 

Ulm .  £ 

Marblehead  Mammoth,  very  large  and 

solid . pkt..  23 

Cauliflower. — Early  Paris,  Half  Early 

very  large,  Late,  and  solid . $2 

Early  Dutcli,  Asiatic,  London . 75 

Carter’s  Mammoth,  Early  Erfurt,  Leiier- 

mand . pkt..  25 

Celery— Seymour’s  Wliite, Clirystal  Wliite 

Red,  solid .  35 

Incomparable  Dwarf,  Crimson^Dwarf 

Imperial,  purple . pkt.. 

Carrot.- Improved  Long  Orange,  extra 

deep  color,  r .  25 

French  Long  Orange,  White  Belgian, 

Altriugliam .  35 

Extra  Early  Short,  Early  Horn . 

Cucumber— Extra  Early  Russian,  Lon„ 

Green  Turkey . 2" 

Early  Frame,  White  Spine,  Skirt  Green  15 
Englisli  Frame  varieties  for  forcing. ))A'4  25 
Egg  Plant,  Early  Long,  N.  York  purple.  V 
Kohl  Habi,  Early  Wliite  Vienna.  Large 

Purple .  2; 

Lettuce,  Early  Silesia,  Summer  Calibage  25 
Large  India,  Wlicele.r’s  Tom  Thumb...  40 

Muskm'elon,  Green  Citron,  Nutme.g .  15 

New  Hybrid,  White  Japan . pkt..  1." 

"Watermelon,  Alountaiii  Sweet,  Black 

Spanish . 

Onion,  Yellow  Danvers,  Wliite  Portugal, 

Early  Red . 

Red  Wethersfield,  Yellow  Duteli .  45 

Parsnip,  Long  White,  Hollow  Crown .  15 

Sutton's  Student  . 

Peas,  Extra  Early,  Daii’l  O’Rourke,  Tom 

Thumb,  per  quart . 

Champion  of  Eng.,  Prince  Albert,  pr  qt  05 
Pepper,  Large  Sweet  Alountaln,  ext.  fine. .  50 
Radish,  Frencli  Turnip,  Olive  sliaped, 

Long  Scarlet .  15 

Salsify,  A  Vegetable  Oyster . SO 

Spinach,  Round  and  Prickly .  10 

Squas-h,  Summer  Orookneck,  Early  Bush.  10 

Boston  Alarrow,  Hubbard .  20 

Yokoliama,.Turban . pkt. .  '25 

Tom.ato,  Extra  Early  Red,  Early  Apple...  80 
Large  Red,  Smootli  liouiul  Red,  i  ellow  25 
Tlie  Cook’s  Favorite,  a  new  and  supe¬ 
rior  variety . pkt..  25 

Lester’s  Perfected,  Fejee  Island.  ..pkt. .  10 
New  Erect  Frencli,  grows  upriglit  like 
a  busli,  useful  and  ornamental — pkt..  10 
Turnip,  Early  Flat  Dutcli,  Early  Red  I’op 
Large  Yellow  Globe,  Cow  Ilorn,  Long 

White  French,  Yellow  Aberdeen .  10 

Rutabaga,  Skirving’s  Purple  Top,  Laing’s  10 
Sage,  Summer  Savory,  Sweet  Maijoram, 

Thyme,  Basil,  Lavender,  etc . pkt..  10 

No  order  will  be  executed  at  tlie  above  rates  for  less  than 
the  amount  specified.  "Wlicn  smaller  quantities  are  ordered 
they  will  be  sent  at  packet  prices 

Collections  of  "Vegeta'blo  Seeds  ky  Mail. 

15  Varieties,  our  selection . $1  00 

33  “  “  .  2  00 

The  above  contain  the  leading  varieties  usually  grown  in 
our  gardens.  To  those  who  desire  larger  quantities,  we 
would  recommend  our  collections  at  $20  00;  or  .$15;  or  $10; 
or  $5,  and  $3,  which  can  be  safely  forwarded  by  express  to 
all  parts  of  the  world.  A  list  of  the  contents  of  each  collec¬ 
tion  will  be  found  in  our  New  Catalogue  and  “Guide  to  tlie 
Flower  and  Kitchen  Garden,”  which  will  be  mailed  to  al. 
applicants  upon  receipt  of  twenty ‘five  cents.  In  conse 
qnence  of  the  scarcity  of  many  varieties  of  Seeds,  we  can 
not  be  bound  by  the  above  prices  after  tlie  first  of  AprlL 
Orders  received  after  that  date  will  be  executed  at  the  low¬ 
est  market  prices.  All  orders  to  be  accompanied  with  tli€ 
cash.  Address  B.  K,  BBISS,  Springfield,  Mass. .) 


oz. 

8  oz. 

lb. 

15 

00 

1  00 

15 

45 

80 

10 

40 

75 

25 

1  50 

2  .30 

30 

2  00 

3  30 

35 

2  '25 

4  OC 

40 

2  50 

4  50 

40 

2  25 

4  00 

50 

3  50 

6  00 

50 

2  75 

5  00 

25 

10  00 

18  ro 

75 

5  00 

8  08 

25 

35 

1  75 

3  00 

25 

1  25 

2  00 

15 

80 

1  50 

20 

1  25 

2  OC 

25 

1  25 

2  00 

1  15 

75 

1  25 

5  25 
75 

'  25 

1  75 

3  00 

;  25 

1  75 

3  00 

.  40 

2  23 

4  00 

15 

75 

1  25 

.  15 

'l5 

80 

1  30 

’  50 

3  25 

6  00 

45 

2  75 

5  CO 

15 

50 

80 

30 

85 

1  50 

t  05 
.  50 

3  00 

5  00 

’  15 

73 

1  25 

HO 

1  50 

2  50 

.  10 

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.  10 

GO 

1  00 

■40 

1  25 

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,  BO 

2  25 

4  00 

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1  75 

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GO 

GO 


1  00 
1  00 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[March, 


94: 

eertaisi  6o  Mead. 
J.  M.  THORBURN  &  CO., 

bpg.tocall  tlie  attention  of  Amateurs  and  Market  Garden- 
ei's  to  tlicir  Celel)rated 

NONI’A^SEIIi  CA'tt;iiiaES.<i>WEi&  SEESS. 

25  cts.  per  paper ;  $1  50  per  oz. ;  or  $20  per  ft. 

TT’e  can  confidently  recommend  the  above  as  the  very  beU 
variety  in  culUvalion. 

ALSO 

Extra  Early  Peas. 

Early  Cabbage  Scetl. 

Early  and  Eatc  Celery. 

Englisb  Frame  ami  otlier  Cticambers. 

Early  ajid  Eatc  Eeltiice. 

Wliite  .Japan  and  otlier  Melons, 
lied,  IVliite  and  Yclloxv  Onion. 

Freucli  and  tiliijve.se  Kadisli.i 
Upriglit  and  other  Tomatoes. 

Early  Flat  and  oilier  Turnips. 

Tree  Seeds  in  great  Variety. 

For  Varieties,  Descriptions  and  price  of  ah  Seeds, 

Send  for  the  Catalogue  of  Vegetable  and 
Agricultural  Seeds. 

.f.  m. 

leS  John-street, 

Hew-York. 


J.  M.  THORBURN  &  CO  ’S 
AiiastsaS  ©cscs'ipiive  Catalogue 

OF 


F1L,«>WE3£  §EEI>S  AW© 


SEEP I  SEEP I  SEEP I 

FOR  THE 

1865. 

For  tlie  present  planting  season,  we  offer  a  choice  assort¬ 
ment  of  seeds,  tlie  qualit  of  which  is  very  fine,  and  in  gen¬ 
eral,  the  supply  good,  bit  owing  to  the  very  severe  drouth 
of  the  last  summer,  some  sorts  are  scarce. 

We  have 

Early  and  ©warf  Peas. 

Medium  and  Eate  Peas. 

®warf  Beans,  Pole  Means. 

Extra  Early  Bwarf  Sugar  Corn. 

MammotU  Sugar  Corn. 

All  valuable  sorts  of  Beet,  Cauliflower,  Carrot,  Oucumher, 
Melon,  Lettuce,  Parsnip,  Radish,  Squash,  Pumpkin,  Tomato 
and  Turnip. 

OWIOW  §EE©. 

Early,  Globe  and  Flat  Red,  Globe  Danvers,  and  Yellow 
Flat  Dutch,  Early  White,  and  M'hite  Portugal. 

©wa©w  SETT'S. 

Yellow  and  White. 

IIESaiS  SEEDS. 

Thyme,  Marjoram,  Sage,  Savory,  and  all  other  sorts. 

FMEIT  SEEDS. 

Apple,  Fear,  Quince,  Cherry,  Anricot,  Currant,  Gooseberry, 
Fiaspberry,  Strawberry. 

GISAIW. 

Spring  Wheat,  Spring  Rye,  Barley,  Poland  Oats,  Buck¬ 
wheat,  White  Flint  Corn,  Yellow  Flint  Corn,  Dent  Corn, 
King  Philip  Corn,  Flour  Corn. 

CLDVEia,  ©RASS  SEEDS,  &;c. 

Red  Clover,  White  Clover,  Lncern,  Timothy,  Red  lop. 
Bent,  Kentucky  Blue,  Fowl  Meadow  (this  is  the  true  kind). 
Sweet  Vernal,  Perennial,  Rye,  Italian  Rye,  Italian  Millet, 


And  all  others  who  wish  pure  and  reliable  Seeds,  should 
p  urchase 


which  are  grown  by  the  Subscriber  from  Selected  Stock,  and 
are  always  Warranted  as  Represented.  Price  List, 
with  Bui.st’s  Garden  Manual  for  ’G5,  mailed  to  all 
who  enclose  stamp  for  postage. 

ROBERT  BUIST,  Jn.. 

PHILADELPHIA. 


Garden  Seeds  !  Flower  Seeds  ! 

The  greatest  care  is  taken  that  all  sold  by  me  shall 

be  pure,  choice  and  reliable  (send  for  a  Seed  List). 

FARM  AVD  GARDEN  IMPL.EMEKTS 
of  every  x'ariety. 

Bone  Dust,  Guano,  Poudrette,  Bruce’s  Concentrated 
and  other  manures. 

Plants,  Trees,  &c.  For  sale  at  wholesale  and  retail, 
at  low  prices. 

Orders  by  mail  with  remittance  will  receive  pi-ompt  atten¬ 
tion.  JOII.V  VANDERBILT, 

23  Fultou-st.,  New-Yor.k. 

The  subscriber  has  now  in  store,  his  usual  supply  ol  fieah 
and  genuine  GARDEN  VEGETABLE,  FIEi.D 


BULBS, 

Containing  all  the  desirable  novelties  of  the  season 

for  18©9S, 

has  just  been  published  and  will  he  mailed  free  on  applica¬ 
tion  to 

.T.  M.  TIIORBURN,.&  CO., 

I  Growers  ami  Importers  of  Seed, 

15  Jobn-street,  New- York. 
The  New  Zinnia  M^icana,  25  cts.  per  paper,  by  mail. 

Chalce  ISar©  ^eeds. 

McELWAlN  BISO’S 

Illustrated  Annual  Catalogue  and  Veget¬ 
able  and  Flower  Garden  Manna!  for  1805, 
will  be  published  early  in  Februaiy.  It  contains  a  descrip¬ 
tion  of  the  most  valuable  and  popular  varieties  of  Flowers 
and  Vegetables  in  the  world  with  explicit  directions  for  their 
treatment  and  culture,  comprising  about  75  pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  BEAUTIB'TJLLY  ILLUSTR.ATED. 
It  will  he  forwarded  to  all  applicants  enclosing  15  cts. 

Address  McEDVAIN  BRO’S,  ” 

Springfield,  Mass. 

I  C  Iv  ^  ^ 

Sllustvatcb  Annual  (Ilatalope 

OF 

FLOWER  AKD  VEGETABLE  SEEDS, 

AND 

©aflide  to  the  Flower 

FOIi  1865;  IS  FOW  rUBLlSHED. 

It  Contains  Accurate  Descriptions  of  the 
LEADING  FLORAL  TREASL'RES  OF  the  WORLD, 
WITH  FULL  DIRECTIONS  FOR 
Sowing  Seed,  Transplanting,  &  After-culture. 

This  beautiful  and  useful  FLORAL  GUIDE  consists 
of  .about  70  pages,  beautifully  illustrated  with  over  Thirty 
Engravings  and  Two  COLORED  PLATES, 
It  is  published  for  the  Information  and  heneflt  of  my 
customers,  and  to  those  it  Is  sent  FREE.  To  all  others, 
price  10  cents.  Including  postage,  wliich  is  less  than  the 
Bctnal  cost.  Address 

JAMES  VSCEi, 

Koclscster,  N.  T. 

Drccr’s  Ciiirdcsi  Calendar  for  1§65, 

Contains  practical  directions  for  the  cultivation  and  man¬ 
agement  of  tlie  Kscalent  and  Flower  Garden.  Also  select 
lists  of  Vegetable  and  Flower  Seeds;  witli  recent  introduc¬ 
tions.  New  Roses.  Daldins,  Gladiolus,  etc.,  mailed  to  all 
Who  enclose  a  postage  stamp.  Address 

UENRV  A.  DP.EICR.  Pliiladelphla.  Pa. 


Hungarian  Millet,  Sainfoin,  Spnrry,  Vetches,  Flax,  Chinese 
Sugar  Cane,  Broom  Corn,  Tobacco,  Long  and  Short  Staple 
Cotton,  Grafting  Wax,  Oil  Soap,  etc. 

Catalogues  sent  to  all  wlio  Apply. 

Dealers  supplied  with  assortments  of  packets  for  retailing, 
their  own  selection,  or  in  quantities  in  bulk,  at  lowest 
Wholesale  rates. 

IS.  M.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

BSD  &  lOS  Water-st.,  Nevv-York, 


Choice  Seed. 

Witli  the  return  of  another  season  I  would  Invite  the  at¬ 
tention  of  the  public  to  my  Annual  Catalogue  of  relia'ole 
Garden  Seed,  including  over  200  varieties,  many  of  wliich  are 
of  my  own  raising.  I  would  call  particular  attention  to  the 
following  list  of  new,  rare  or  very  desirable  vegetables : 
Cannon  Ball  Cabbage  (new,  early,  the  heads  are  ns  round 
and  about  as  hard  as  a  cannon  ball) ;  Marhleliead  Mammoth 
Drumhead  Cabbage  (the  largest  in  tlie  world)— Stone  Mason 
Cabbage  (the  best  of  all  winter  cabbages,  put  up  in  half  oz. 
packages,  and  sold  by  the  pound  if  desired)— Learmand’s 
Mamnioth  Cauliflower  (the  largest  of  all ;— -Mammoth 
French  Squash  (weighs  from  100  to  260  lbs.)— Mammoth 
Sweet  Corn  (the  largest  sort  known,  selected  from  ears 
weighing  from  two  to  three  pounds,  very  sweet,  excellent 
for  the  table)— Yokohoma  Squash  (new  from  Japan)— Amer¬ 
ican  Turban  Squash  (new,  the  dryest,  sweetest  and  best  of  all 
fall  squashes,  first  rate)- Striped  Gandaloupe  Egg  Plant 
(quite  ornamental)— New  York  extra  large  purple  Egg 
Plant  (the  largest  of  all  varieties)- Ornamental  Kale  (several 
varieties  in  one  package ;  line  for  either  the  flower  or  kitch¬ 
en  garden)— Pierce’s  American  Cauliflower  (the  standard 
late  sort  in  Boston  Market)— Early  Paris  Cauliflower  (im¬ 
ported  seed,  the  best  early  sort)— IVaite’s  New  Alma  Cauli¬ 
flower  (a  popular  new  English  variety)— Early  IVliite  Japan 
Melon  (new,  very  sweet,  line)— Ward’s  Nectar  Melon  (the 
sweetest,  spiciest,  best  of  all  the  green  fleshed  varieties)— 
Caterpillar  Plant  (a  curious  vegetable ;  several  varieties  in 
one  package)— Vegetable  Snails  (another  natural  curiosity). 
Each  of  the  above  at  25  ce'its  per  package.  Forty  Days’ 
Corn  (extra  early,  ahoV  10  days  earlier  than  Darling’s 
Early)— Mexican  Sweet  Corn  (the  sweetest  of  all  varieties  ot 
table  corn)— Golden  Sweet  Corn  (an  early,  prolific,  sweet 
table  corn,  of  a  bright  golden  color,  fine)— Hubbard  Squash 
Seed  (true ;  I  introduced  this)— Cow  or  Tree  Cabbage  (for 
Btock)—Yard  Long  Bean-Extra  Early  York  Tomato  (very 
early,  very  prolific,  of  good  size  and  excellent  qualitv)— 
Cook’s  Favorite  Tomato  (a  very  early  apple  tomato,  prolific, 
of  excellent  quality)— Yellow  Lupins  (the  plant  so  highly  re¬ 
commended  for  subsoiling  in  a  recent  Patent  Ollice  lieport 
—also  highly  ornamental)- Tom  Thumb  Pea  (very  early, 
grows  10  inches  high,  very  productive)— Drew’s  New  Dwar.f 
Pea  (new,  very  dwarf,  very  prolific,  peas  egg  shaped,  each 
plant  forms  a  'bush,  hut  one  pea  being  required  to  about  one 
foot  of  row)— Brown’s  New  Dwarf  Early  Marrowfat  Pea  (a 
new  variety  which  may  he  relied  upon,  ns  both  the  earliest 
and  most  dwarf  Marrowfat  grown ;  very  prolific)— Improved 
Long  Green  Cucumber-Six  finest  varieties  of  Cabbage  Lettuce 
In  one  package.  True  Boston  Curled  Lettuce  (tlie  most  elegant 
of  all,  quality  good)— Ornamental  Gourds  (many  varieties  in 
one  package— Spotted  Sleva  Bean,  Concord  Bean  (a  new  pole 
bean,  remarkably  early,  quality  first-rate)— Extra  Flat  Beet 
(new,  very  early,  about  as  flat  as  a  turnip,  quality  excellent) 
—Chick  Peas  (two  sort  mixed;  extensively  used  in  Europe  as 
a  substitute  for  coll'oe)— Chinese  Sugar  Cane  (imported  seed) 
New  Jersey  Hybrid  Cucumber  (one  of  the  largest  and  best 
varieties  ciiltivati'd)— Lester’s  Perfected  Tomato  (very  large 
and  thick  ineatedi— Sutton’s  Student  Parsnip  (new,  recently 
originated  In  England,  desirable)- Chinese  Rose  'Winter 
Radish  (decidedly'the  best  of  all  the  winter  sort,  an  acquisi¬ 
tion)— Hood’s  Dwarf  Imperial  Purple  Celery  (new,  superior) 
—Indian  Chief  Bean  (a  pole  bean  ;  can  he  used  as  a  string 
bean  much  better  than  any  other  variety ;  very  productive.) 
—Each  of  the  above  at  15  cents  per  package.  Catalogues 
sent  gratis  to  all.  Those  who  received  it  last  season  will  re¬ 
ceive  it  this  without  writing  for  it. 

JAMES  ,1.  H.  GREGORY, 
Marblehead.  Massachusetts. 


Green  Houses  for  sale  in  a  good  location  with  no  competi¬ 
tion.  A'fllress  G.  E.  ADAMS,  Logansport,  Did..  Box  ‘239  P.  O.  ) 


AND  FLOWER  SEEDS, 

New  priced  Catalogues,  on  application. 

ALFRED  BRIDGEMAN, 

No.  876  Broadway,  New  York  City. 


Garden  Seeds.  Garden  Seeds. 

The  subscriber  has  been  enscasced  over  thirty  years  in  rais¬ 
ins;  all  kinds  of  GrtiMioii,  'Vegelahle  and 
See«ls,  and  having  over  one  hundred  acres  devoted  to  lhar. 
urpose,  is  enabled  to  offer  as  sood  a  sto^k  of  seeds  as  can 
e  found  in  the  country.  Dealers  can  be  siipinied  in  any 
quantity,  either  by  the  pound,  bushel,  or  neatly  put  up  in 
small  papers  suitable  for  retailing.  A  list  of  prices  will  bf5 
sent  to  all  applicants.  G.  11.  GADItKTSON,  Flushing,  K,  Y. 


^eeds.  ^eecls.  Seeclssto 

Fresh  and  reliable- 

At  GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

58  &  60  Conrtlandt-st.,  New-Vork. 


Collection  of  Vegetable  Seeds  by  Mail. 

20  Choice  varieties  for  $1.00;  45  Choice  Varieties  for  $2.00 
Notwithstanding  the  great  advance  in  the  prices  of  most 
kinds  of  seeds  since  last  season,  we  shall  continue  to  furnish 
the  above  collections  at  our  former  liberal  rales.  They  con¬ 
tain  only  those  varieties  that  are  most  valuable,  and  enough 
in  quantity  to  seed  an  ordinary  sized  gulden.  Any  jicrson 
sending  for  these  collections  can  not  hut  be  well  pleased, 
even  though  they  use  less  tlian  half  the  varieties.  Those 
who  de9ire'’larger  quantities  will  find  our  Collections  for  $.5, 
$8,  $15,  $20,  $25,  equally  desirable  and  economical.  P'or  list 
of  the  contents  ot  these,  and  a  great  variety  of  Vcgetahlo 
and  Flower  Seeds,  see  our 

liBessls-aletl  CaSaJogiie 

which  will  he  forwarded  to  all  applicants  enclosing  15  cents. 
.To  our  regular  customers  it  will  he  sent  free.  Address 

McELWAlN  BRO'S,  Springfield,  Mass. 


The  undersigned,  have  this  day  entered  into  a  Copartner¬ 
ship,  under  the  name  and  firm  of  DlifLL  &  KUMEULF.  for 
the  purpose  of  carrying  on  a  General  Seed  and  Nursery 
Business,  in  the  establishment  formerlv  conducted  by  the 
late  Geo.  C.  Thorbuni.  Seed  Store  and  Warehouse,  15$ 
Broad-st.,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 

'  FIIAXCTS  BlilLL, 

Seedgrower  and  Nurseryman, 
JOHN  U.  KUMPHILE,  Seedsman, 
formerly  with  the  late  Geo.  C.  Thorburn. 

Address  orders  for  Catalogues,  &c.,  as  above. 


Seeds !  Seeds  I  t  ^ceds ! 1 1 

Catalogues  of  GKWUIIVE  Garden,  Field,  and 
Flower  Seeds,  &c*,  Fruit  and  Griianicntal 
Trees,  Shrubs,  Vines,  STIl/V^VilEHUY  Plaiats. 
&c.,  &c.,  furnished  free  to  all  applicants.  Address 

BKILL  &  KUMEULE,  Seedsmkx,  &c., 

153  Broad-st.,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 

Seed  Catalogue  for  1865, 

My  Seed  Catalogue,  embracing  over  200  varielie.s  of  fresh 
garden  seed,  many  of  which  are  of  my  own  growing,  will  he 
mailed  free  to  all  applicants.  Those  who  purchased  seed  last 
season  will  receive  it  this  se.ason  wiihont  writing  for  it.  As 
the  original  introducer  of  thmlUibhard  Squash.  Marhlchea.il 
Mammoth  Cabbage,  &c„  invite  the  patronage  of  the 

public.  JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY, 

Marblehend,  Mass. 


ST^LOWER  SEEDS  BY  MAIL.— The  stihscrihor 

■'  raises  about  one  hundred  kinds  of  Flower  Seed.s,  scleer- 
ed  from  over  one  thousand  varieties,  of  the  most  showv  and 
attractive.  He  will  furnish,  neatly  put  up,  any  32  kinds  on 
tbs  list  for  $1,  and  send  by  mail,  with  postage  prepaid. 

G.  H.  GARRETSON.  Flushing,  N.  T 


imi 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


85*i‘«8  ®a’OWliB  of  S864. 

We  have  a  fine  stock  of  Onion  Seeil  which  we  warrant  to 
he  true  10  name  and  sure  to  germinate.  As  the  American 
crop  is  quite  short  it  will  he  necessarj*  for  those  in  want  of 
tlu5  best  seed  to  secure  it  (‘uiiy.  \Vc  will  furnish  at  the  fol¬ 
lowing  rates  until  March  2Ulh. 


oz. 

lb. 

Enrlv  Red . . 

. -IOC. 

$5  50 

Lar^e  “  . . 

. 40c. 

5  00 

Yellow  Danvers . 

C)  00 

White  Portutral . 

C  00 

Orders  for  ><  lb.  sent  at  pound  prices.  The  above  \\in  he 
forwarded  post-paid,  to  any  address,  upon  receipt  of  the  price. 

Addiess  McEL\VAIN  BUG’S,  Springfield,  Mass. 

Garden  Seeds !  Flower  Seeds  ! 

Our  Garden  Seeds  were  mostly  jrrown  by  Francis  Bril), 
and  tltercforewecan  warrant  them  genuine  and  sure  to  grow. 

Our  Flower  Seeds  we  procure  I'rom  tlie  most  reliable 
American  and  European  growers,  and  oiler  a  fine  assortment. 

SEEDS  BY  MAIL.— \?e  send  Seeds  by  mail  pre-paid,  on 
receipt  of  price  for  which  see  Catalogue,  furnislied  tVee  to 
all  applicants.  BHILL  &  KUMEKLE, 

153  Broad-st.,  Newark,  New-Jersey. 

Marblclicjici  ManmiollB  Catofoage. 

JIv  Cabbage  is  the  largest  in  the  world  !  In  favorable  lo¬ 
calities  it  will  grow  to  weigh  from  thirty  to  sixty  pounds  a 
head,  and  wherever  it  has  been  Introduced  it  has  left  all  oth¬ 
er  varieties  far  in  the  bachgronnd.  They  have  been  raised 
in  every  loyal  State  and  in  tlie  Canadas,  weigliing  fi-om  20  to 
60  lbs.  eacli.  Tliey  are  not  only  of  enormous  size,  but  very 
bard  headed,  very  tender  and  sweet.  The  calls  for  seed  have 
been  so  extensive  that  for  the  past  two  years  I  have  been 
unable  to  snpiily  it.  I  can  this  season  supply  packages  con¬ 
taining  seed  snnicient  for  500  plants,  with  lull  directions  for 
cultivation,  sent  by  mail,  post-paid  by  me,  for  25  cts.  each ; 
five  for  $1  00  ;  one  bnndred  for  $15  00.  Also  Caxnox  Ball 
Cabbage,  an  early  sort,  making  the  roundest  and  hardest 
head  of  any  cabbage  grown.  I'er  package  25  cts. ;  five  pack¬ 
ages  $1  00.  Stone  Mason  Cabbage.  This  is  a  very  large 
drumhead,  remarkably  reliable  for  lieading,  and  first  rate  for 
a  general  crop.  X  oz.,  25  cts. :  1  oz.,  50  cts. ;  1  lb.,  $1  25,  post¬ 
paid  to  any  part  of  the  United  States,  or  Canadas. 

JA.MES  J.  H.  GREGOIIY,  Marblehead,  Mass. 


Onions  and  How  to  Raise  Them. 

IVliatsoil  is  best;  bow  to  prepare  it;  bow  to  manure  It; 
bow  to  tell  good  seed  from  bad :  how  to  plant  it ;  how  to 
grow  onions  trom  seed,  potato  onions,  onion  setts,  shallots 
and  top  onions  ;  when  to  pull  onions;  how  to  store  them  ; 
howto  prepare  for  market,  and  when  and  where  most  profit¬ 
able  to  market  them  ;  what  onions  to  select  for  seed,  and 
how  to  grow  it,  and  a  hundred  minute  details  so  valuable  to 
beginners,  with  many  facts  relative  to  peculiarities  of  onion 
raising  in  the  Soutiiern,  Eastern  and  Western  States  of  value 
to  old' growers.  Illustrated  with  original  engravings  of  the 
“Dave  Warren”  Onion,  Early  Crocker  Onion  (new),  lied 
Wethersfield  and  Potato  Onion,  Sowing  and  Weeding  Ma¬ 
chines.  In  paper  covers,  forwarded  by  mail,  prepaid  by 
tlie  subscriber  at  SO  cents  each.  Seedsmen  and  Booksellers 
supplied  at  wholesale  rates,  .TAMES  J.  H.  GUEGOIIY, 
Seedsman,  Marblehead,  Mass. 

liarg’c  Heel  WetiieesfiieM 

SEEU. 

My  Onion  Seed  was  grown  from  Selected  Stock,  and  is 
Waii-aiitecl  fresh  and  pure.  Price  List  on  application. 

ROBERT  BUIST,  JK., 
PHILADELPHIA. 

SiEEDS  BY  MAIL,  PRE-PAID.— All  the  most 

^profitable  and  successful  sorts  of  Onions,  Beet,  Cab- 
BAcft:,  Melons,  Squash,  Turnip,  and  other  seeds,  at  lowest 
rates.  B.  JI.  WATSON,  Plymouth,  Mass. 

BoFgiEtBiEa  asad  Seed. 

We  have  on  hand  a  large  supply  of  Sorghum  and  Imphee 
Seed  of  the  best  varieties,  to  which  we  respectfully  call  the 
attention  of  those  interested  in  the  Cane  culture.  We  luive 
taken  great  pains  to  procure  good  choice  seed ;  and  believe 
wc  have  the  purest  lot  in  the  country.  Those  wishing  seed 
will  do  well  to  order  early  and  thus  guard  against  disap¬ 
pointment  such  as  was  experienced  by  many  last  season. 

Cook’s  Evaporator,  Cano  Mills,  Corn  Crushers,  Sawing  Ma¬ 
chines,  &c.,  &c.,  for  sale.  Seed  Circular  and  Sorgo  Hand- 
Boo'iC  sent  tree.  BLYMYER,  BATES  &  DAT, 

Mansfield,  Ohio. 

Pure  Cane  Seed  for  1865. 

Regular  Sorgo.— By  Mail  (prepaid),  30  cts.  per  lb.  By  Ex¬ 
press,  10  lbs.  or  less,  2'5  cts. ;  10  to  40  lbs.,  20  cts. ;  and  over  40 
lbs.,  15  cts.  per  lb. 

Early  Sorgo,  Oomseeana  and  Neezana.— By  l.lnW  (prepaid), 
40  cts.,  per  lb.  By  Express,  10  lbs.  or  less,  30  cts.;  10  to  40  lbs., 
25  cts.;  and  over  40  lbs.,  20  cts.  per  lb. 

Liberian  (a  newand  Superior  Variety).— By  Mail  (prepaid). 
60  cts.  per  lb.  By  Express,  10  lbs.  or  less,  50  cts.;  10  to  40  lbs., 
40  cts.;  and  over  40  lbs.,  30  cts.  per  lb.  Backage  included. 
The  above  Seed  was  raised  with  special  reference  to  purity. 
Address,  Clark  iSorgo  Macliine  Co., 

Cincinnati,  Ohio. 

Hubbard,  Turban,  Yokohama  ! 

I  am  receiving  letters  daily  from  all  parts  of  the  United 
States,  from  Farmers,  Gardeners,  and  others,  who  pronounce 
my  Turban  to  he  the  dryest,  sweetest,  finest  grained  and 
most  delicious  fall  squash  they  ever  ate.  The  Hubbard  is 
universally  acknowledged  to  ho  the  best  of  all  winter  squash-, 
es,  while  the  new  Japan  Squash,  the  Yokohama,  is  pro¬ 
nounced  the  very  best  of  its  class.  I  was  the  original  intro¬ 
ducer  of  the  Hubbard  and  Turban  squashes.  Packages  of 
seed,  (all  of  my  own  growing,)  sent  by  mail,  with  full  direc¬ 
tions  for  cultivating,  for  25  cents  each  for  Turban  and  Yoko¬ 
hama,  and  15  cents  for  Hubbard.  Five  packages  of  Turban 
or  Y'okoliama,  $1.00.— Hubbard  by  mail,  post  paid  by  me, 
$2  62  per  pound. 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY,  Marblehead,  Mass. 

Chicory  ^eedi. 

Tlie  Great  Substitute  for  Coffee. 

A  supply  of  the  genuine  article  just  received  by  the  Sub¬ 
scriber,  and  will  be  mailed,  post-paid,  to  any  address  upon 
receipt  of  the  price  affixed. 

Packets  containing  1  ounce,  20  cts. ;  8  ounces,  80  cents  ;  1 
pound,  $1  50.  Directions  foi-  culture  and  curing  accompany 
each  package.  Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


To  Msurhet  Gardemers. 

BOO  ISualicls  Imported  Extra  Early  Daniel 
O’Kourkc  Peas,  just  received.  Market  Gardeners  who 
wish  a  pure  Extra  Early  Pea  should  purchase  from  this  lot. 
Pi-lces  on  application  to  ROBERT  BUIST,  Jk., 

_ _ PHILADELPHIA. 

ALSIKE  or  SWEDISH  WHITE  CLOVER.— 
I  can  Birnish  enough  post-paid  by  mail,  to  sow  one 
ROD  of  ground,  for  25  cts,  or  enough  for  four  rods  of  ground, 
for  50  cts.,  enough  for  one-eighth  ol  an  acre,  for  $2.  K.  P. 
KIDDER,  Burlington,  Vermont. 

Conjiecticsat  §cc<i  lecaf  T®bacc«. 

We  have  a  good  supply  of  genuine  Seed  Leaf  Tobacco 
Seed  grown  expressly  for  ns  from  selected  plants,  by  one  of 
the  best  cultivators  in  the  Valley.  Packets  containing  1  oz. 
with  full  directions  for  cultivation  will  he  forwarded  to  any 
address  for  50  cts.  Prices  for  larger  quantities  will  he  given 
on  application.  Address 

McELWAIN  BRO’S,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Tcashro©k,  Fierce  &  €©., 

(Successors  to  John  W.  Tenhrook,)  SWEET  POTATO  CUL- 
TURISTS,  Rockville,  Ind.,  Vincennes,  IiuL,  and  South  Ross, 
Ill.  Nanseiiioiicl  Sweet  Potatoes. 

Our  Stock  of  the  above  named  variety  of  Sweet  Potatoe, 
(in  store  for  this  sining,)  is  unusually  large  and  of  the  best 
qjn.ality.  The  completion  of  onr  JIammoth  Sweet  Potatoe 
House,  at  South  Ross,  Ill.,  on  the  Ill.  Central  Railroad,  will 
enable  us  to  fill  and  forward  promptly  all  Cask  Orders, 
with  which  we  may  be  favored.  Sliipinents  will  be  made 
from  eitlier  of  the  above  named  places,  as  purchasers  may 
desire.  Responsible  Agents  tVanteil  in  every 
County,  Town,  and  Village',  to  sprout  onr  Potatoes  on 
shares.  Address  TENBROOK,  PIERflE  &  CO.,  Rockville, 
Ind.,  or  South  Ross,-  Ill. 

MAJv’SEMOND  sweet  potatoes  for  SEED. 

Price  $6  per  single  bushel,  $15  per  barrel  of  3  bushels. 
Reasonable  discount  on  large  orders.  Plants,  also  in  proper 
season.  This  variety  is  successfully  grown  at  the  north. 
Send  for  circular  of  directions,  etc.  Address 

MURRAY  &  (30.,  Fosters  Crossings,  Warren  Co.,  Ohio. 

^WEET  POTATO  SEED. — Improved  Nansemond 
C-'Seed  potatoes  for  sale  in  lots  to  suit  at  $6  per  bushel ; 
a  Inishel  will  produce  from  3000  to  5000  plants.  J.  C.  THOMP¬ 
SON,  Tompkinsville,  (Staten  Island)  N.  Y'. 

OODRICH  SEEDLING  POTATOES  for  Seed. 
wX  Orders  for  the  Pinkeye  Rusty  Coat,  Cuzco,  and  Garnet 
Chili  varieties,  carefully  selected,  will  be  lilied  by  the  sub¬ 
scriber,  when  the  weather  admits,  at  five  dollars  per  barrel. 
Enclose  the  money  with  order.  E-  C.  ALLEN,  West  Meri¬ 
den,  Ct. 

llfeS  GOODRICH’S  SEEDLING  POTA-^ 

SLP  toes  for  $1,  by  mail  pre-paid.  Garnet 

Chili,  Cuzco,  and  Pink-eye  Rusty-coat,  2  lbs.  of  each  variety. 
800  bushels  Seed  potatoes  for  sale.  I’rice  $3  50  per  hbl.  Cir¬ 
culars  free.  P.  SUTTON,  Ransom,  Susqnehana  Co..  Pa. 

^EED  POTATOES  BY  MAIL,  the  most  popular 
^tiling  out.  A  liberal  postal  law  enables  fiirmers,  however 
distant,  to  try  the  new  varieties  at  trilling  expense.  For  tes¬ 
timonials,  terms,  &c.,  address E.  WILLIAMS,  Mont  Clair,  N.J. 

Dwarf  Broom  Corn  Seed. 

A  genuine  article  sent  by  mail  at  the  foUotving  rates ;  for 
R  tt.,  25  cts.;  KB.,  45  cts.;  1  B„  80  Cts.;  IK  Ihs.,  $1,  by 
D.  REDFIELD,  Scotcbtown,  Orange  Co.,  N.  Y. 

PWARF  BROOM  CORN  SEED.— I  will  send 
the  genuine  Dwarf  Broom  corn  seed,  post-paid,  at  the 
following  rates.  K  lb.  50c.,  IK  Ihs.  $1.  5  lbs.  $o,  10  lbs.  $5 
ELIAS  REED,  Waterville,  Lucas  Co.,  Ohio. 


NEWELL  &  STSLES 


PLANTSVILLE,  CONN. 


All  sizes  of  Cloth,  Paper  Parchment,  and  Manilla  Tags 
made  and  printed  to  order,  at  lowest  prices.  Send  for  Price 
List. 

Oorsa  Flaaitisag’ !  Tissae 

Every  farmer  should  have  one  or  more  of  Thos.  B.  McCon- 
anghey’s  Patent  Corn  Droppers.  They  will  positively  save 
one  half  the  time,  over  the  old  way  of  dropping  corn. 

For  Three  Dollars  I  will  send  one  Dropper  to  any  address 
free  of  E.xpress  charges. 

A  liberal  discount  made  to  them  that  buy  to  sell  again. 
Address  THOS.  B.  McCONAUGHEY, 

Newark,  Delaware. 

M®t  Wnter  FiiFMftC€§ 

for  Warming  Grceii-Uouses,  Conservato¬ 
ries,  Graperies,  &c. 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Prince-st„  New- York 


t  I 

Lester’s  Pure  Ground  Bone. 
Fere  Pereviaii  Geaiao. 

E.  F.  COE’S  SUPERPHOSPHATE  OF  LIME. 

Bruce’s  Concentrated  Fertilisers. 
I^laster,  Foxid-rette,  etc. 

For  sale  in  quantities  to  suit  purchasers.  Send  in  toue 
Oeoees  kaelt 

K.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New  York. 


13-Femt  Ag’F 


It  is  claimed  for  this  New  Seedling  that  it  is  of  unequalled 
size  and  productiveness,  single  plants  producing  as  high  as 
294  berries,  many  of  them  weighing  one  ounce  each,  of  bright 
glossy  crimson  color,  very  firm,  high  llavorud,  and  a  hist 
class  market  berry.  For  an  account  of  Us  origin;  iiitro- 
duction;  purchase  by  ns  ;  character  and  productiveness  of 
the  plant ;  size  and  cliaraoter  of  the  fruit,  and  other  infor¬ 
mation,  see  our  circular.  We  have  bought  of  .Mr.  ,Iudd  his 
entire  stock  of  plants  for  sale,  and  are  now  able  to  furnish 
them  at  the  following  prices : 

1  plant . $  751  50  plants . $  15 

2  plants .  1  20  100  “  25 

6  “  3  00  500  “  I'Y, 

12  “  5  OO'lOOO  “  200 

Our  stock  of  Strawberry  plants  this  season,  including 
Golden  Seeilcd,  the  best  early  ;  Kassel!  and  Fill- 
moi-e,  of  wonderful  size  and  productiveness;  F,-t.„eii’s 
Seedling,  Triomplie  de  Gand,  Wilson’s  .AI- 
kany,  and  all  other  desirable  kinds,  is  the  lai-gef.  ci  A'st 
we  have  ever  oflered. 

Strawberry  Plaut.s  by  Wail. 

We  will  send  safely  packed  and  post-paid  by  mail 
For  $1,  1  Agriculturist,  8  Golden  Seeded. 

For  $2,  2  Agriculturist,  10  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell. 

For  $3,  3  Agriculturist,  10  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell,  13 
Fillmore. 

For  $5,  6  Agricnltnrist,  12  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell.  12 
Fillmore,  12  French’s  Seedling,  6  Kitley’s  Goliah. 

For  $10,  12  .Agriculturist,  2i  Golden  Seeded,  2!  Russell,  21 
Fillmore,  21  French’s  Seedling,  12  Kitley’s  Goliah,  12  Len- 
ning's  White. 

For  description  of  above,  and  many  other  kinds;  onr  se¬ 
lect  lists;  mode  of  culture ;  prices,  &'c.  See  onr  illnstratud 
catalogue. 

Gra|5es. 

Onr  vines  are  grown  in  the  open  air,  Irom  the  best  of  hearing 
wood,  taken  trom  onr  own  vineyards,  and  arc  greatly  supe¬ 
rior  to  those  raised  under  glass  with  their  roots  crampeil  in 
pots.  They  are  healthy  and  vigorous,  have  remarkably  good 
roots,  and  give  entire  .satisfaction  in  their  growtii.  when 
planted,  which  is  the  true  test  of  a  good  vine.  We  oiler  in 
large  quantity  the  following: 

Coiicoi’d.  Montgomery. 

Delaware.  Taylor. 

Hartford.  El.sangkitrg. 

Crevcling.  Hci'beiiiont. 

Diana.  Allen’.s  Hybrid. 

Union  Village.  Rebecca. 

Iona.  Israella. 

Adiroiiilac,  and  other  de.sirable  kinds. 

Raspberries. 

Onr  collection  is  unsurpassed,  if  equalled  anywhere,  and 
includes : 

Hornet.- The  largest  of  all,  and  of  great  excellence. 
Pilate.- Very  early,  and  valuable. 

Imperial.— 'Very  productive  and  fine. 

Souckett.— Very  beautiful  and  good. 

Jonet.  “  “  “ 

Brinclslc’s  Orange.— Finest  flavor. 

Franconia.- One  of  the  very  best. 

Improved  Black  Cap.— Hardy  and  very  profitable. 
Fkiladclpkia,  Allen’s  Hardy,  &c. 

Rlackberrie-s. 

New  Rochelle,  Dorchester,  and  Ncwm;in,  in  any 
quantity. 

Currants. 

We  have  taken  special  pains  to  collect  the  best  varieties  ot 
currants,  and  have  a  very  large  supply  of : 

Cherry,  Largest  and  best  for  Jelly. 

"White  Grape,  Best  White,  very  fine. 

Victoria,  Productive  and  latest. 

Short  Bnncli  Red,  Productive  and  very  good. 
Marsaillaise,  Very  large,  and  best  quality. 
Goseberries,  Asparagus,  Dinnoeus  Rhubarb, 
&c.,  &c.  Send  for  Catalogue  ciaclosing  stamp. 
J.  ICNOX,  Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


90 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST, 


[JMarch, 


A§‘rlctiltMFi§t» 

Another  j’ear's  trial  has  proved  this  Strawberry  to  he  one  of 
the  most  productive  as  well  as  the  largest  in  the  world.  My 
stock  for  the  coming  spring  is  large,  and  the  plants  are  very 
fine.  Delivered  in  rotation  as  ordered.  Two  plants,  $120; 
Six,  $3  00;  Twelve,  $j  00;  100,  $23;  1000,  $200.  The  following 
are  the  great  prize  lierries  in  Kurope  for  18GS.  Lucida  per- 
fecta,  Ilijon,  Haqnin,  and  Souverin  de  Kief,  at  $2  per  dozen, 
or  the  four  for  $0  00. 

Tlie  following  8  varieties  are  the  prize  berries  of  Belgium 
and  France,  for  1862.  Orb,  Lucas,  La  Negress,  Frogmore 
late  Fine,  Exposition  de  Chalons,  Madam  Cologne,  La  De- 
licieuse,  Quinquefolia,  at  $1  per  doz.,  or  the  8  for  $6  00. 

llussell’s  50  cents  per  doz.:  or  $2  per  hundred.  French 
Seedling,  the  best  early  berry,  and  Buffalo  Seedling,  $1  per 
doz.  Lenning's  White,  Deptford  White,  AVhite  Pineappie, 
75  ce  Its  per  doz.;  or  $1  per  hundred. 

All  orders  addressed  to  WM.  §.  CARPENTER, 
339  Greenwicli-st.,  Ncw-York. 

All  persons  desiring  to  purchase  Strawtoerry  Plants 
are  requested  to  seud  for  my  Price  List  of  all  the  new  and 
f  leading  varieties.  Plants  taken  up  and  packed  with  much 
more  than  usual  care,  as  letters  from  my  customers  in  all 
sections  amply  testify.  EDWIN  MARSHALL, 

Po’kecpsie,  N.  T. 

resit 


AGRICULTURIST  STRAWBERRY. 

1  have  a  stock  of  unusually  Strong  Plants  of  this 
celebrated  variety,  which  I  will  send  post-paid  to  any  P.  O. 
address,  packed  with  unusual  care,  as  follows :  2  plants,  $1 ; 
6  plants,  $2  50 ;  12  plants,  $5.  Order  early. 

EDWIN  MARSHALL, 

Po'keepsie,  N.  Y. 

Fruit  aucl 

^Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Vines,  and  a  general  assort¬ 
ment  of  N ursery  Stock.  Catalogues  mailed  to  all  a|)plicants. 

FRANCIS  BRILL, 
Nurseryman  and  Seedgrower, 
Newark,  New. Jersey. 

N.  B.— My  Send  business  will  hereafter  he  conducted  under 
the  name  and  style  of  BRILL  &  KU.MKRLE,  153  Broad-st., 


Newark,  N.  J. 


FRANCIS  BRILL, 


STRAWBEllRY  PLANTS  for  sale.  Five  of  the 

i^hest  varieties  of  plants  for  cultivation,  viz. ;  Knssell’s  Pro¬ 
lific  and  Jluffalo  Seedling  at  $2  per  100  ;  French’s  Seedling 
at  $3  per  1,000;  Cutters  Seedling  and  Downer’s  Prolillc  at  $3 
ner  1,000.  Also  olher  varieties  at  reduced  prices. 

I'or  sale  by, 

THOS.  C.  ANDREWS, 
Moorestowu,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  .1. 

Russell’s  Seedling  Strawberry. 

One  Dollar  per  100  plants. 

Nine  Dollars  per  1,000 

EDWARD  MERRITT,  Poughkeepsie,  N.  T. 
March  1st,  1865, _ 

^fRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  general  Cultivation. 

Ten  of  the  best  varieties  for  sale  at  tlie  lowest  rates. 
Price  list  sent  free  to  all  applicants.  Varieties  w'arrauted 
true  to  name.  JOifN  S.  COLTjINS, 

Moorestowu, .Burlington  Co.,  N.  J. 

■g;<OR  THE  BEST  SELECTED  STRAWBERRIES, 

S’  Raspberries  and  Blackberries,  whicli  yielded  for  me  last 
summer  over  1,500  busliels  of  Fruit  seud  for  Catalogues 
gratis.  WM.  PARRY,  Cinnaminson,  N.  J. 

STRAWBEERY  PLANTS  FOR  SPRING  SET- 

ting ;  most  of  tlie  promising  and  new  varieties,  including 
French’s  Seedling,  T.  de  Cand,  and  others.  Send  for  a  cata¬ 
logue  free  to  all.  SAM’L  L.  ALLEN,  CinnaminsoH,  N.  .1. 

Strawberry  plants  of  best  qimlity  ami  va- 

t^rietles.  For  prices,  etc..  Address  E.  WILLIAMS, 

Alont  Clair,  N.  .1. 


— The  undersigned  begs 
ViSleavc  to  call  tlie  alteution  of  dealers  and  planters  to  ids 
large  and  well  selected  stoede  of  Grape  Viiu'.s.  ;md  feels  fully 
convinced  tlial  he  will  give  salisfaetlou  lo  all  who  favor  him 
•with  their  orders.  Send  for  Price  List. 

1  Vi.NKS.— A  few  lliousaiid  Grape  Vines  ol 
‘  i  per  100;  $15  per  1000.  Address 
iiond  P.  ().  Staten  Island,  N.  Y. 


wun  llieir  orners.  neim  lui 
Clinton  Gkape  Vinks.- 
thl*  variety  for  sale  at  $0 
G.  E.  MEISSENER,  Richaio 


Tines  at  WSaolesalc  Mates  to 
Cleibs. 

Propositions  for  the  formation  of  clubs,  by  which  .all  can 
obtain  vines  at  wholesale  prices,  with  other  advantages,  will 
be  sent  for  a  stamp.  The  propositions  may  accompany  the 
price  list  and  twenty  four  page  pamphlet,  or  any  of  the  cata¬ 
logues,  without  cost  of  stamp  ;  and  I  would  invite  the  atten¬ 
tion  of  every  purchaser  to  them  for  their  great  advantages. 

The  excellence  and  importance  of  the  new  kinds,  Iona  and 
Israell.a,  are  now  so  well  understood  and  appreciated  that 
there  is  but  one  voice  In  regard  to  tlieni,  and  that  of  earnest, 
enthusiastic  pnaise  from  all  quarters  where  they  are  known. 

These  can  be  very  cheaply  obtained  by  clubs  who  buy  not 
less  than  fifty  of  the  vinos.  Early  orders  are  necessary  to 
secure  the  best  plants. 

EHGRAVINGS  OE  THE  IONA. 

A  limited  number  of  fine  lithographic  colored  engravings 
of  the  Iona  Grape  have  been  prepared  at  great  cost,  by  an 
eminent  artist,  which  exceed  in  truth  and  beauty  anything 
of  the  kind  that  has  been  produced  withiu  our  knowledge,  in 
any  country;  greatly  surpassing  tliose  of  the  celebrated 
French  artists,  Grobon  and  Poiteau,  in  the  brilliance  and 
delicacy  of  their  coloring,  by  which  the  transparency  and 
iridescent  play  oflight  is  represented.  As  a  work  of  art,  it 
is  worthy  of  a  place  in  any  portfolio,  or  of  an  elegant  frame 
for  the  walls  of  the  library  or  parlor. 

These  engravings  are  furnished  only  as  premiums  with 
Iona  vines.  For  particulars  see  propositions  to  clubs.  As  our 
artist  was  able  to  complete  but  a  limited  number,  we  can  not 
agree  to  furuish  them  throughout  the  entire  season.  All  who 
are  desirous  of  securing  them  to  aid  in  canvassing  will  do 
well  to  send  an  early  remittance,  according  to  one  of  the 
“  special  propositions.” 

Has  the  eault  kipeninq  of  the  Iona  and  Isp.aella 
Geapes  been  obtained  by  any  pop.cing  appliances  oe 

BY  ANY  OTBEE  MEANS  THAN  THAT  OP  OBDINAKY  CULTIVA¬ 
TION  IN  GAEDEN  OE  YINEYAED  ? 

In  answer,  I  would  say  both  of  tliese  kinds  h.ave  always 
been  grown  under  very  moderate  circumstances  of  cultiva¬ 
tion,  in  full  exposure  in  tlie  open  ground,  and  without  any 
forcing  appliances  whatever.  Their  surpassing  productive¬ 
ness,  as  well  as  unequalled  quality,  are  from  the  excellence 
of  the  kinds  as  may  be  clearly  seen  by  any  one  who  will 
call  and  examine. 

They  have  always  oeen  open  to  the  Inspection  ol  the  pub¬ 
lic  at  all  seasons,  and  will  continue  to  be  so. 

A  Pamplilct  of  Twenty-four  pages  gives  the  full  state¬ 
ment  of  the  manner  iu  which  these  vines  were  produced  ; 
iu  which  will  also  be  found  hints  for  the  production  of 
Seedlings  of  all  kinds,  with  a  view  to  improvement.  It  con¬ 
tains  a  full  account  of  the  management  of  all  of  those  vines 
from  their  production  from  seed  to  the  present  time.  It  is 
sent  for  a  two  cent  stamp,  and  I  commend  it  to  the  attention 
of  all  who  have  any  interest  in  planting  vines  in  garden  or 
vineyard.  It  contains  also,  full  Tables  of  Contents  of  the 
Descriptive  and  Illustrated  Catalogues,  with  Price  List  of 
vines  of  all  kinds. 

The  Descriptive  C.at.alogne  is  sent  for  ten  cents,  and  the 
Illustrated  for  twenty-five  cents. 

These  two  hound  together  In  flexible  paper-covers,  and 
called  “Manual  of  the  Vine,”  are  sent  for  fifty  cents. 

The  Descriptive  exhibits  the  principles  and  general  consid¬ 
erations  which  form  the  basis  upon  which  Grape-culture  is 
to  be  successfully  conducted,  and  Is  illustrated  with  many 
very  fine  and  life-like  Engravings.  It  also  contains  full  and 
accurate  descriptions  of  all  our  native  kinds  that  are  worthy 
of  notice,  with  a  clear  representation  of  their  relative  value 
with  a  chapter  on  “  IVine  Making.”  Also  a  lecture  by  Mr. 
Mead. 

The  Illustrated  (eighth  edition)  treats  thoroughly  of  prac¬ 
tice  and  of  practical  results,  illustrated  with  about  eighty  en¬ 
gravings.  The  two  together  constitute  the  most  thorough, 
practical  and  comprehensive  treatise  on  the  Vine  in  the  lan¬ 
guage.  The  conditions  of  the  full  measure  of  success  are 
clearly  stated,  and  the  precise  manner  of  perlorming  every 
operation  is  so  clearly  shown  as  to  be  easily  intelligible  to 
every  reader. 

P.  S.— — The  supply  of  colored  engravings  of  the  Iona  is 
at  present  exhausted,  but  another  limited  supply  is  in  pre¬ 
paration,  and  will  be  ready  in  a  few  days. 

I  would  call  the  attention  of  all  interested  in  good  grapes 
whetlier  for  family  supply  or  for  market,  to  the  distinctive 
excellence  of  the  Iona  and  Israella. 

The  Iona  as  a  grape  for  late  keeping,  ns  well  as  for  its  eor- 
liness,  and  for  its  quality,  in  which  it  has  no  competition, 
will  soon  render  all  of  the  inferior  kinds  (which  are  now 
recommended  only  for  market,  and  not  for  use),  of  very  lit¬ 
tle  value.  The  vines  are  offered  at  extremely  low  prices,  as 
will  ho  seen  by  consulting  Price  List  and  Club  Propositions. 

I  would  also  call  attention  to  the  advantage  of  obtaining 
vines  grown  from  strong  mature  wood  that  has  been  pre¬ 
pared  for  that  special  purpose. 

C.  W.  GRANT, 

Iona  (near  Peekskill),  Westclicster  Co.,  N.  Y. 


A  CARD. 

We  take  this  metliod  to  intorm  our  friends  and  nisfomcr? 
that  oitr  large  slock  of  grape  vinos  is  entirely  sold,  and  wo 
were  obliged  to  shorten  the  orders  of  nianv  of  our  host  ous 
tomers.  \Ve  sell  only  vines  grown  by  onrselvos,  none  have 
been  sold  at  auction  or  by  agents,  and  we  have  advertisea 
but  little.  Our  plants  are  good,  strong  and  healtliv  enough 
to  sell  without  pufliug.  d.  F.  DELIOT  &  HVD'EK, 

Vine  Growers,  Sing  Sing,  N.  Y, 

N.  B.—I  built  two  green-houses  100  feet  long  last  fall,  and 
expect  to  put  up  two  more  this  spring,  espeoiallv  for  raising 
vines,  to  which  I  devote  invself  wholly,  and  1  Rope  to  have 
a  full  supply  of  fine  vinos  next  fall. 

J.  F.  DELIOT,  Vine  Grower,  Sing  Sing,  N.  Y. 

30,000  CONGO  liD  GRAPE  VINES. 

No.  1,  One  Year  old,  $10  per  100;  or  $90  per  1000. 

“  2,  $8  per  100;  or  $70  per  1000. 

2  Year  old,  $‘20  per  100;  or  $180  per  1000. 

Delaware  Grape  Vine  Layers,  $6  per  doz. 

Union  Village,  $6  per  doz. 

KO«EKS’  IlYfiS8gBI>S. 

No.’s  4,  15  and  19,  we  have  fruited  the  past  3  3'ears,  and 
they  have  done  finely. 

IrVe  have  also  No.’s  1,  3,  33.  30.  Price  $9  per  doz. 

GEO.  SEYMOUR  iSt  CO., 
_ Soutli  Norwiilli,  Cosiu. 

Concoi’d  fSrajee  TiBBes. 

Ozif  vines  are  grown  in  open  -field,  all  over  one  year  are 
transplanted  and  icill  hear  at  once..— Concord  1  to  3  vears  2" 
to  !>0  cts.  each  ;  $10  to  $30  per  100;  $75  to  $175  per  1000  1000 
Roger’s  Hybrid  (mostly  No.  10),  75  cts.  eacii :  .$8  per  doz.  A 
few  hearing  vines,  $1  50  each  ;  $12  per  doz.;  origin,  Salem, 
Mass.,  12  miles  from  us.  Crevellng,  extra  strong  vines.  Diana, 
Delaware,  Hartford  Prolific,  Dracut  Amber,  tins  is  much  llie 
earliest  grape,  of  my  50  liearing  varieties.— Also  Allen’s  Hy¬ 
brid,  Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac. - 30,000  Russell’s  Prolific 

Strawberry  plants,  $2  per  100;  $18  per  1000.  20  oilier  Straw¬ 
berries.— 20,000  Currant  bushes,  new  varieties.  A  new  Goose¬ 
berry  .—Large  and  Small  Fruits  generallv.  Shrubs,  Shade 
Trees,  Evergreens,  &c.  Send  stamp  for  Illnsirated  Catalogue 
J.  W.  MANNING!,  Reading,  Mass. 

50,000  COICOED  VINES. 

5,®©©  It©GEli§’  IIYS5MI0’S. 

Send  stamp  for  7Vlioles,aIe  or  Retail  Catalogue,  containing 
cut  of  Rogers*  No.  19.  Tlie  Speciiil  Ri-eiiiiiaiii  Gi'iiiio 
of  tlie  Penn.  Horticultural  Societj',  whicli  is  the  liest  new 
hardy  Black  Grape  yet  introduced.  IVe  liave  tlie  wlioie 
stock  from  original  vine.  Address 

WM.  PERRY  &  SON,  Bridgeport,  Conn. 


GRAPE  VINES,  &,c. 

Three  good  1  year  old  Delaware  Grape  Vines,  or  2  Crcvel- 
ing,  or  2  Maxatawny,  or  G  Concord,  or  2  Now  .Japan  Varie¬ 
gated  Honeysuckles,  will  be  sent  post-paid  to  the  address  of 
any  one  sending  a  $1  Greenback  to 

MAHLON  MOON,  Morrisville,  Bucks  Co.,  Pa. 


^RAPE  VINES  FOR  SPRING  186.5.— Adii  ondac, 
^^lona,  Israella,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Delaware.  Concord,  Ro"-- 
ers’ Hybrids,  No.  15  and  19,  Hartford  Prolific  and  Clinlon 
For  sale  at  low  prices  by  J.  W.  CONE,  Vineland.  N.  J.  For¬ 
merly  Norfolk,  Conn. 

The  above  vines  are  of  best  quality  and  warranted  true  to 
name.  Samples  sent  on  receipt  of  price  per  dozen.  Vines 
sent  by  mail  post-paid,  when  so  ordered. 


THE  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKE  F. 

Patented  May  31st.,  1SG4. 


We  offer  to  the  trade 
for  the  year  180,5,  tlie 
celebrated  Venker 
Fei'it  B  a  s  k  e  t, 
which  has  been  so 
extensively  and  sat¬ 
isfactorily  used  the 
pastseason.  To  those 
wlio  have  used  it,  it 
recommends  itself; 
to  otliers  we  chum 
for  it  superioriiv 
over  tlie  many  kind's 
now  in  use  for  the 
following  reasons : 
It  is  broad  at  tlie  hot 
tom  and  not  easily 
upset.  Sliallow  anil 
tliercfore  prevents  the  pressure  on  the  lower  tier  of  hei-ries 
when  being  transported  to  market,  nests  closely  together 
when  empty,  and  is  neat,  stvUsh,  duiaible  and  clieap. 

For  Circulars  of  price  and  description,  address  the  Mann- 
actnrers.  A.  BEECHER  &  SONS,  Westville,  Conn. 

By  Mail,  'fflie  Nc'iv  Strawberries,  Grapes, 
Currants,  A:c. 

Priced  descriptive  list  will  he  sent  lo  any  addrcs.s. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymoutli,  Mass. 


Five  IffiBijds’cd  'I'liousand 

(i>®®,®®©.) 

CHANBERRY  PLANTS, 

for  sale  by  GEO.  A.  BATES,  Bellingham,  Norfolk  Co.,  Mass. 
Seud  for  CiA'sular  on  the  Cranberry  Culture. 


ravHE  TRUE  C4.PE  COD  CRANBERRY  for 

-B-  Spring  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  cuUnre,  and  for 
swamps.  Under  my  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  bushels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  witli  prices  of  plants,  with  nursery 
catalogue  complete,  will  he  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON.  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymoutli,  Mass 


CRANBERRY  PLANTS.— The  best  bonrhii--  vines 

and  no  others,  can  be  liad,  not  by  tlie  Tliousand" lint  by 
the  barrel.  Enquire  of  Dock  B.  H.  STEVENS,  Essex,  Conn 

HOICE  CAPE  COD  CHERRY  CRANBERRY 
VINES— famous  bearers— iilnmp.  rich  colored  fi-nit,  for 
sale  by  J.  F.  WOOD,  Middlehoro,  liiass.  Send  for  Circular. 


Agents  wanted  for  sale  of  Trees,  Plants  and 

Seeds,  iu  all  Ihe  loyal  States  B.  M.  WATSON, 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymoutli,  Mass. 


1865 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


97 


PARSONS  &  CO., 


VINES 

of  all  tlio  leadinj:  varieties  of  excellent  quality. 


Among  tliem  are 

each. 

per  doz. 

per  100. 

per  1009. 

Iona . 

$18.00 

$125 

AUen’s  IlySn’id 

.  75 

7.00 

40 

Concoi'd,  1  year. 

.  25 

2.50 

13 

$100 

2  “ 

50 

4.00 

25 

Delaware . 

50 

5.00 

25 

Foreign  Vines  of  all  the  sorts  and  finely  grown  at 

1  j'ear,  Ifo  per  doz. ;  $3j  per  100. 

2  years,  8  “  “  51)  “  “ 

In  addition  to  their  other 

FRUIT  TREES 

They  offer  PEAK  TREES  of  extra  size. 

They  commend  to  the  special  attention  of  nurserymen  their 
stock  of  choice 

embracing  nearly  200  varieties,  which  they  offer  at  tow  rates : 
among  them  are 

CuPRESsus  Lawsoxiana . $6  per  doz. 

TUUIOPSIS  BOREALIS .  6  “  “ 

Junipers . $33  per  100 

Arbor  Vit^,  Siberian .  10  “ 

do  Amoric,an .  6 

PICEA  Nordmaniana . 50  ‘ 

Pines,  Austrian .  20  “ 

do  Scotch,  large .  20  “  “ 

tJpRiGUT  Tew,  quite  hardy . 33  “  '* 

Norway  Spruce .  12  “  “ 

Golden  Tew . 

STREET  TREES,  large  and  handsome. 

FLOWERING  SIlRUIiS  in  great  variety. 

ROSES,  Hybrid  Perpetual,  on  their  own  roots,  not  gratted 
or  budded,  $20  per  100. 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  health. 

STOVE  PLANTS  in  variety. 

UHOIIOHENDRONS,  both  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
in  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  they  refer  to  their  Catalogues  for 
which  address  them  at 

Flushiiii;,  ne.qr  New  York. 

Fruit  and  llriiaiaaentai  Trees 


For  Spring'  of  180o. 

Ellwangei*  Barry 

Respectfully  announce  that  their  stock  of 

Fi-iiiit  anti  Ornamental  Trees 
for  Spring  planting  is  very  large  and  complete  in  every 
Department. 

Planters,  Nurserymen,  and  Dealers  In 

Trees,  are  invited  to  examine  the  following  Catalogues 
which  give  full  particulars,  and  are  sent  pre-paid  to  ap¬ 
plicants  upon  the  receipt  of  postage  stamps  as  follows,  viz.: 
Nos.  1  and  2.  ten  cents  each.  No.  3,  five  cents.  No.  4,  3  cents. 
No.  1.— A  Descriptive  and  Illustr.ated  Catalogue  of  Fruits. 
No.  2.— A  Descriptive  and  Illustrated  Catalogue  of  Orna¬ 
mental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Roses,  &c.,  &c.,  &c. 

No.  3.— A  Catalogue  of  Dahlias,  Verbenas,  Petunias,  and 
select  new  Green-house  and  Bedding  Plants,  published  every 
spring. 

No.  4.--A  Wholesale  Catalogue  or  Trade  List,  published 
every  autumn. 

ES.I.WANGKlft  &  BARRY, 
mount  Slope  Nurseries, 

Docliester,  N.  Y. 


Hardy  Fruit  for  the  Northwest! 

Would  yon  learn  the  hardy,  early  hearing,  most  productive 
sorts  of  fruit,  how  to  plant ;  also  the  hardy  Ornamental  Trees 
and  Shrubs  as  tested  in  23  years' nurseryiug  at  the  West? 
Send  2  red  stamps  for  the  (1865)  Catalogues  of  the  Blooming¬ 
ton  Nursery— 13th  year,  220  acres  of  Fruit,  Ornamental  and 
Nursery  Stock— Root  Grafts,  Stocks,  Cuttings,  Scions,  Fresh 
Apple  ($S  50  bush),  and  Pear  Seeds  ($3  50  ft.),  Greeu-house, 
Garden  and  Bedding  Plants. 

Apple  and  Pear  Trees,  Dwarf  and  Standard,  an  im¬ 
mense  Stock,  Plum,  Cherry,  Peach,  Apricot,  Nectarine, 
Small  Fruits. 

Grajpes.— 13  acres,  including  Adirondac,  Iona,  Israella, 
Creveling,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  7  of  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Norton’s 
Virginia,  Union  Village,  Hartford  Prolific,  with  snperb  hear¬ 
ing  layers  of  Delaware  and  Concord,  1  year  Catawba  per 
1,000.  Early  Richmond  and  Osage  Orange  in  moderate  sup¬ 
ply. 

Evergreens.— 20  acres  mostly  medium  and  small  sizes. 
Ornamental  Trees  and  Shrubs.  Roses— Over  4  acres  of 
over  400  sorts,  many  very  new— few  better  stocks  and  collec¬ 
tions.  Dahlias,  Phlox,  Chrysanthemums,  Gladiolus,  Lilies, 
&c.  Five  large  Green-houses  with  frames  covering  over  10.000 
square  feet  of  glass  are  used. 

Packing  by  all  routes  carefully  done  in  moss. 

Prices  reasonable.  Terms  cash. 

Bloomington,  III.  F.  K.  PHCENIX. 


To  Whom  it  Bna-y  Comcern ! 

The  Subscvlher  desires  to  form  a  partnership  ■with  some 
Nurseryman  who  wishes  to  enlarge  Ins  business,  wlio  oper* 
ates  strictly  for  cash,  who  has  no  debts  hanging  over  him, 
and  is  a  thorough  master  of  his  profession.  State  the  amount 
of  money  required,  location  and  condition  of  business,  and 
submit  references.  All  answers  to  this  advertisement  will  be 
promptly  responded  to.  J.  E.  MEUUIMAN,  Lock  Box  301. 
Memphis.  Teun. 


New  Apples  aii<l  Pejai’S. 

The  constant  Inquiry  after  the  fruit’s  that  I  have  under 
cultivation,  induces  me  to  oiler  cions  to  all  who  desire  new 
and  improved  varieties.  My  collection  consists  of  over  500 
kinds  of  apples  and  pears,  100  of  each  may  he  selected  which 
are  very  beautiful  ami  good.  The  following  12  varieties  of 
apples  and  pears  are  the  most  promising. 

APPLES. 

Topsey,  the  earliest  of  all  apples,  ripe  July  1st:  Vermont 
Beauty  and  Vermont  Strawberry,  these  two  are  very  large 
and  beautilul,  and  of  the  finest  quality.  Sept,  to  December; 
Vermillion,  Washington  Strawberry,  Granite  Beauty,  Kirt- 
land,  P.ark  Apple,  Blooming  Orange,  Fraiikliu,  Juices,  and 
Lincoln. 

PEARS. 

Halstead  Beurre,  equal  to  the  Lawrence,  keeps  until  April, 
Dana’s  Hovey,  Leggett,  Bergan,  Shoemaker,  Beurre  Goit, 
Ropes,  St.  Dorothea,  Detongres,  Wilmington,  Dudley  and 
American  Beauty.  Cions,  2  and  3  buds  to  each,  will  he  fur¬ 
nished  at  the  following  r.ates:  2  vtvrieties,  3  cions  each,  $1 ; 
12  varieties,  $5 ;  25  varieties,  $8 ;  50  varieties,  $15 :  100  varieties 
23  ;  no  orders  received  for  less  than  two  varieties.  Address 
WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

329  Green wich-st..  New  Tor’K. 


Everg'rceR§  I  Everga’ccits ! 

We  have  an  immense  stock  of  Norway  Spruce,  Balsam 
Firs,  Scotch  and  Austrian  Pines,  American  Arbor  Vi- 
T.E  (White  Cedar),  Siberian  Arbor  Vit.e,  &o,  &c.,  from 
small  to  large  sizes.  All  have  been  transplanted  once,  and 
the  larger  sizes  two  to  three  times  in  the  nursery,  so  that 
success  is  ensured  in  planting.  They  are  offered  at  low 
RATES  per  doz.,  per  100,  or  per  1,000,  and  prices  will  be  given, 
packed  in  a  superior  manner,  delivered  at  Depot  in  Roches¬ 
ter,  or  otherwise.  FROST  &  CO., 

Rochester,  N.  Y. 


G.  MARC’S 

Catalogue  of  Choice  Roses,  Pear  Trees, 
Vines,  &c.,  &o., 

Is  now  ready,  and  will  be  sent  free  to  all  who  m.ay  apply. 
150  Varieties  Hardy,  ever  blooming  Roses,  including  Presi¬ 
dent  Lincoln  and  George  AVashington,  and  several 
otlier  new  varieties;  also  Tea  and  Bourbons. 

Standard  Roses,  just  imported,  extra  fine  plants,  among 
which  are  the  two  above  named  sorts.  Moss  Roses,  just  im- 
p^orted,  on  own  roots,  very  fine,  and  of  most  selected  sorts. 
Peak  Trees,  dwarf  and  standard,  2  to  5  years  old,  in  hear¬ 
ing.  Apples,  Cherry,  Peach,  Currants,  Gooseberries, 
&c.  Grapes,  in  best  native  sorts,  such  as  Iona,  Israella, 
Adirondac,  and  other  good  varieties. 

Send  for  Descriptive  Catalogues  to  G.  MARC,  Astoria, 
L.  L,  New-York. 

Reid’s  Nurseries,  Elizabeth,  New  Jersey. 

David  D.  Buclianaii,  successor  to  Wm.  Reid. 

Offers  for  sale  this  Spring  a  large  assortment  of  Dwarf  and 
Standard  Pears,  Apples,  Peaches,  Plums,  Nectarines,  Apri¬ 
cots,  Currants,  Gooseberries,  Raspberries,  Grape  Vines,  &c. 

Also  a  fine  collection  of  Hardy  Evergreens,  consisting  of 
Norway  Spruce,  Arbor  Vitses,  Irish  and  Swedish  Junipers, 
Cypresses,  &c.,  &c. 

The  stock  of  Deciduous  Trees,  such  as  Maples,  Elms,  Lin¬ 
dens,  Oaks,  &c.,  is  fine  and  can  he  furnislied  in  any  quantity. 

Orders  by  mail,  addressed  as  above,  will  meet  with  prompt 
attention. 

N.  B.— Priced  Catalogues  just  published,  forwarded  on  re¬ 
ceipt  of  stamp. 


Van  Bui’cii’s  Cioklcii  Dwart'  Pcacli. 

A  true  Dwarf,  from  23  to  36  inches  liigh,  productive,  and 
good  fruit.  Also  quite  ornamental.  Price  $1  each.  Send 
lor  Circulars.  Address 

HENRY  A.  DREER.  Seedsman  and  Florist, 

714  Cliestnut-st.,  Pliiladelphia,  Pa. 

WHITE  WILLOW. 

Genuine  Cuttings  of  superior  growth,  shipped  to  any  ad¬ 
dress  at  $4  per  thousand.  Address  J.  H.  GRAVES, 

Dement,  Ogle  Co.,  Illinois. 

ATIVE  EVERGREENS  AT  $7  PER  lOOO, 

5  to  12  inches  high,  of  the  following  varieties:  Balsam 
Fir,  White  Spruce,  Hemlock,  Wliite  Pine,  and  Arbor  Vitse. 

Packing  free.  JAMES  A.  ROOT,  Skaneateles,  N.  Y. 


WANTED. — A  competent  person  to  take  charge 
of  an  establislied  nursery.  Must  have  a  thorough 
knowledge  of  the  business  in  all  its  branches,  including  man¬ 
agement  of  green  and  propagating  liouses.  Also,  wanted,  a 
responsible  traveling  agent:  one  wlio  lias  had  some  experi¬ 
ence  preferred.  Address  “NURSERY,”  Wilmington,  Dei. 


WANTED. — By  a  young  man  a  situation  with 
some  good  Nurseryman,  or  stock-raiser,  wliere  a  pre¬ 
vious  literary  education  miglit  be  of  some  advantage.  Satis¬ 
factory  references  given  and  required.  Address  A.  M.,  Box 
159,  Shelbyville,  Ky. 


liOBI  POUBHETTf^. 

THE  tom  JIAIVUPACTURIIVG 

CO.,  with  an  experience  of  24  years,  again 
offer  a  uniform  article  of  Poudrette,  pre¬ 
pared  from  the  night  soil  of  tlie  City  of 
New  York. 

The  experience  of  thousands  of  custom¬ 
ers  attests  to  the  fact  that  it  is  the  cheap¬ 
est  and  the  very  best  fertilizer  in  market. 
It  is  particularly  adapted  for  Tobacco,  Corn,  Potatoes,  and 
Garden  truck.  A  pamphlet  containing  directions  lor  use, 
&c.,  may  be  had  free  by  addressing  a  letter  to  the 

L.ODI  BIAiVTJPACTURIlVG  CO., 

66  Conrtlandt-st.,  New-Yorlc, 

Ammonaated  Facade  Gaiaaao. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phospliate  of  Lime ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  the  Trade. 

Pamphlets  with  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
from  scientific  agriculturists,  sliowing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st„  New-York. 


UNION  MOWING  MACHINE. 


This  Machine  has  been  in  use  four  successive  harvests,  and 
has  met  with  the  liearty  apnroval  and  well  merited  praise  of 
practical  farmers.  We  call  the  attention  of  farmers  to  our 
Mower  for  1S65,  of  superior  manufacture,  and  possessing 

new  and  valuable  improvements* 


Price,  No.  1,  4  feet  6  inches  cut . ^100  00 

“  “  2. 4  feet  “  170  00 

**  “  3,  3  feet  6  inches  “  . IGO  00 

- 0 - 


oi’se  Hay  IHalie. 

Send  for  Circular,  ^  Agents  Wanted, 

iBMisroved  May  Fork. 


Iron  and  Steel,  in  tlic  most  durable  manner,  having  no 
wooden  head  to  split  and  allow  the  teeth  to  get  loose. 

Agents  Wanted.  ^ 

A  new  and  valuable  Farm  Iinplemont.  Somelhing  tliat 
every  farmer  will  appreciate. 

It  will  save  tlie  labor  of  tliree  men  every  day  wlien  work¬ 
ed— and  with  care  will  last  you  many  years.  Wlio  would  he 
without 

Patent  Revolving  Hay  and  Grain  Stacker, 

AND 


CLEMENT’S  IMPROVED  HAY  FORK. 


PRICE,  COBIPI.ETE,  S50. 

Any  Carpenter  with  a  model  and  dimensions,  wiiich  w6 
will  furnish,  can  build  them. 

AGENTS  WANTED 

In  every  town  in  tlie  State  New-York,  to  manufacture  and 
set  up,  to  whom  a  liberal  discount  will  he  made.  Send  foi 
circular,  terms,  etc. 

SHARE’S  Patent  Coulter  Harrow. 

“  “  Hocr  and  Hiller. 

HAIjSTED’S  Cultivator  and  Seed  Drill. 

BROWN’S  Ice  Cream  Freezers. 

Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds.— Seeds,  Fertilizers,  &e 
HAINES  &  PEBI., 

27  Courtlaudt-st.,  New-York. 


98 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[ilARCH, 


THE  UHIYERSAL 

€yS«>Oaes  Ws’Iisger 

was  pronounced  superior  to  all  others  at 

The  World’s  Fair,  in  London,  1802, 

received  the  'RTtONZIC  MKDAL  (highest  premium)  at  the 
(Treat  Fair  of  the 

Amerifait  Institate,  in  New  Y«ik  City,  in  1863. 

It  has  also  received  the 

FIRST  PREMIUMS 

■<it.  the  following  STATU  FAIKS: 

NKW  Y()I:K . IStS 

V'EIiMON'T.  . 

PEN  N S Y L V A X I A . 18153 

. 


Mioinc;? 


1803 
1803 
1864 
186-1 

INDIANA..' .  1803 . ISdt 

ILI.INOIS . 1863 . ISO! 

IOWA . 1863  . 1864 

WISCONSIN . 1864 

CONN.  IIIVEi:  VALLEY  EAll! . '. . 1864 

CHAMPLAIN  VALLEY  KAIK . * . 1864 

and  at  tlie  principal  COUNTY  and  INSTITUTE  FAIIiS 
tliroiigliout  Uio  lantl. 

Opinion  of  Oi  iutge  .Tgidii,  Escj.,  Editor  Amer¬ 
ican  Agricnltnrist. 

Ills,  in  reality,  a  Clothes  Saver  I  a  Tiri\e  Saver!  and  a 
Strength  Saver!  We  tliink  tlie  machine  more  than  page  for 
Itself  even/  gear,  in  tlie  saving  of  garments !  Tliere  are  sev 
era!  kinds,  nearly  alike  in  .general  construction,  but  rve  con 
slderit  important  that  the  Wr.iNGEit  he  fitted  with  COOS, 
otherwise  a  mass  of  garments  may  clog  the  roller.s,  and  the 
rollers  upon  tlie  crank-shaft  slip,  and  tear  the  clothes.  Our 
own  is  one  of  tlie  first  made,  and  it  is  as  good  as  new,  after 
nearly  four  years’  constant  use  ! 

See  also  Premium  list  in  tliis  paper  and  advertisement 
in  back  numhers  of  tlie  Agriculturist. 

Prices  for  tlie  best  family  sizes— AVITII  COGS— No.  2,  $10. 
No.  IK.  SI2.  On  receipt  of  the  price  from  places  wliere  no 
one  is  selling,  we  will  send  tbe  U.  C.  W.  free  of  expense. 

EVERY  WlilNGEIl  WITH  COGS  IS  WAIIKANTED  ! 

Good  canvassers  can  find  profitable  employment  selling 
the  U.  C.  W.  For  terms  and  Circulars  address 

li.  C.  BROWNING,  Genl.  Ag’t,  347  IJroadwaj',  N.  T. 


'Mie  Nonpareil  Wasliing  Jtl.achine, 

Is  the  only  entirely  reliable  Washing  Machine  in  existence. 

Geared  to  run  three  turns  of  the  crank  to  one  turn  of  the 
hand. 

It  has  been  in  constant  use  in  the  family  of  Mr.  Judd,  the 
fh-eprietor  of  this  Journal,  and  in  that  of  Mr.  Munn,  proprie¬ 
tor  of  the  Scieiitific  American,  since  1861.  For  description, 
see  advertisement  in  preceding  numbers  of  the  Agriculturist. 

Send  for  free  Circular  to 
OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  181  AVater-street,  New-Tork. 

$1.00 —Preserve  Your  Ega^s.— $1.00. 

One  Dollar  will  procure  tlie  riglit  to  use  Perkin's  Patent 
for  preserving  Eggs,  Meats.  &c.  For  full  particulars,  see  ad- 
vcrtlBemcnt  in  E'ob.  number  of  American  Agriculturist. 

Apply  to  HENRY  E.  RICHARDS,  Bloomfield.  N.  J 


Thirty  Gold  or  Silver 
Medals,  or  other  first  pre¬ 
miums,  have  been  av^ard- 
ed  to  Mason  &  Hamlin 
within  a  few  years.  Their 
Cabinet  Organs  are  de¬ 
clared  the  best  instru¬ 
ments  of  their  class  in  the 
world  by  over  200  of  the 
most  eminent  musicians 
in  the  country. 

Circulars  with  full  par¬ 
ticulars  free.  Salesrooms, 
274-  Washington  Street, 
Boston ;  7  Mercer  Street, 
New  York. 

S.  D.  &  H.  W.  SMITH’S 

AMEKICAl^T  OM^^AMS. 

Pronounced  by  more  than  One  Hundred  of  the  best  Organ¬ 
ists  of  the  country  to  he  Superior  to  any  other  Reed  In¬ 
strument  yet  proiUtced,  and  have  received  the  First  Pre- 
ntioiii  Avheiiever  exliihited. 

SIBERIA  OTT,  AVliolesale  Agent.  No.  748  Broadway,  N.  T. 


The  First  Premium  was  Awarded  to  the 

aniess-ica:^'  4>a5€.}A:^'s 

At  the  New  York  State  Agricultural  Fair  held  at  Rochester, 
September  1364,  over  the  whole  catalogue  exhibited,  includ¬ 
ing  instruments  from  the  most  celebrated  makers. 

Exclusive  'Territory  secured  to  Dealers  and  large  discounts. 
Send  for  Illustrated  Price  Circulars  and  address  all  orders 
SIBERIA  OTT,  748  Broadway,  New- York. 

I5©AKS>NIAA',  GKAA  &;  C©.,  ' 

PIANO  FORTES. 

Ordei-s  for  these  celebrated  and  Superior  Instruments 
should  be  addressed  to  the  AVlioIesale  Agent. 

SIBERIA  OTT,  748  Broadway,  New  York. 

SEVEN  OCTAVE.  ^275* 

ROSEWOOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  4l»9  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

New.  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latestimprovements. 

Thirty  years’  experience,  with  greatly  increased  lacilities 
for  manufacturing,  enable  us  to  sell  for  CASH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  instruments  received  the  highest 
award  at  tlie  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  years  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Casli.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 

TIbc  Most  Poiiiilar  Piano  Songs. 

’Twas  Evening  at  tlie  Window.  Soffman.  SO 
“  ’Twas  evcniiig,  at  the  window 
Were  we,  my  Love  and  L 

Do  they  Pray  for  me  at  Home.  Eiske.  30 

“  O  oft  in  foreign  lands 

As  I  see  the  bended  knee. 

Comes  the  thought,  at  twilight  hour, 

Do  they  ever  pray  for  me.” 

I’m  lonely  since  my  Motl»er  died.  Thompson.  SO 
“I’m  lonely  since  my  mother  died, 

Tho’  friends  and  kindred  gather  near.” 

I  live  for  tliosc  wlio  love  me.  Clark.  SO 

“  For  the  wrong  that  needs  resistance. 

For  the  cause  that  lacks  assistance, 

For  the  dawning  in,  the  distance. 

And  the  good  that  I  can  do.” 

Tenting  on  tlie  Old  Camp  Ground.  Klttrcdge.  30 
One  of  tho  very  best  soldier’s  songs  published. 

I’d  Choose  to  be  a  Baby.  The  best  Comic  Song  of 
the  Season.  30 

Copies  sent  hv  mall,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  price. 

OBIVER  DITSON  &  CO.,  I’ublishers,  Boston. 


Mosailor  Mower 
siiiel  Mesapes*. 

The  success  of  the  Monitor  is  without  parallel.  Item- 
braces  every  i>oint  necessary  to  make  a  Perfect  Mow¬ 
er  and  Reaper.  It  recommends  itself  to  every  farmer 
for  the  simplicity  of  its  construction,  li  is  proved  to  ho  the 
LigJitest  Draft.  It  takes  Uie  preference  lor  dura¬ 
bility,  ease  of  management  and  good  work. 

Four  different  sizes.  Fully  warranted.  For  circu¬ 
lars  giving  lull  description,  reterences,  &c..  Address 
P.  KISHWITZ,  Manufacturer, 

Williamsburgh,  L.  I.,  N.  T. 

J.  N.  CLOVES, 

(General  Agent,  Central  and  Western  N.  Y.,)  Utica. 
P.  S.  MESEROLE, 

(General  Agent,  111.,  and  the  West,)  ‘201  Lakc-st,  Chicago. 

tJ 
d 

■P 


PAT.  IMPROVED 
HORSE 

Huy  F®Fli 


p 

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After  its  extensive  introduction  and  use  last  vear.  Is  now 
oflered  to  the  public  In  its  improved  form.  Agents  wanted. 
Town,  County,  and  State  Rights  for  sale.  Send  for  acircular. 
Address  A.  M,  HALS'I'ED,  67  Fearl-st.,  New-'York. 

SliBssey’s  Celebratejl  Flows  I 

Manufactory  at  North  BertTick,  Me. 

These  Plows  are  celebrated  for  their  superior  turning  ca¬ 
pacity,  easy  draft,  ease  in  lioldiiig,  steadiness  in  the  ground, 
strength  and  durability. 

“  Having  thoroughly  tested  these  Plows  we  take  pleasure 
In  recommending  them  to  ilie  public.’’— AVilliam  F.  Estes, 
Brest.  N.  H.  State  Ag.  Society,  Dover,  K.  H. 

Meukili,  Bailev,  Trustee  of  Shaker  Society,  Alfired,  Me. 
Circulars,  Price  Cards,  &c.,  sent  gratis  on  application. 
Address  TIMOTHY  B.  HUSSliY, 

North  Berwick,  Me. 

ATTENTION,  DEALERS  In  WHEEL 

STOCK. 

THE  JACOB’S  WHEEL  COMPANY 
are  prepared  to  buy  seasoned  WHEEL  STOCK  OF  PRIME 
QUALITY  FOR  CASH,  in  any  quantity,  such  as  hubs, 
spokes,  felloes,  bent  I'ims,  liickory  plank,  &c.  Address  Hie 
JACOB’S  WHEEL  CO  MEANT,  No.  99  AVall-st.,  or  Nos.  115 
and  147  Bank-st.,  New-York. 


HURD’S  PATENT 

American  Hog  Tamer 

To  Prevent 

HOGS  FROM  ROOTING. 

Every  Farmer  Should  Have  i). 

IT  SAVES  MANY  TIMES  ITS  COST. 

Price,  witli  3  Knives,  delivered  fi-ee  at 
nearest  Express  Office,  S3.00. 

Address  EMERY  &  CO  ,  Chicago,  Ill. 

^awiaas'  Maclaines  : 

In  addition  to  the  m.anufacture  of  Steam  and  Horse  Powei 
Thrashing  Machines,  we  are  building  extensively  Cross¬ 
cut  and  Circular  Saws.  The  Cross-cut  or  Drag  Saw  is  intend¬ 
ed  to  attach  to  Horse  Powers  of  all  kinds,  and  will  saw  Rom 
20  to  40  cords  of  stove  wood  in  one  day.  AVe  build  two  sizes 
of  Powers  suitable  to  run  them.  One  is  a  two-horse  Power, 
wliile  tlie  Ollier  is  heavier  and  is  designed  for  eitlier  two  oi 
four  liorses  as  may  be  desired.  Tliese  macliines  are  in  gen¬ 
eral  use  and  every  farmer  sliould  have  one. 

Our  Circular  Saw  for  cutting  cord  wood,  limbs  an*  poles 
Into  stove  wood  is  tlic  best  arranged  and  most  desirable 
style  in  use.  Our  macliiiiery  is  not  only  substantially  built 
out  of  the  best  of  material,  hut  is  finished  otf  in  a  very  tasty 
manner.  Address  JONAS  W,  YFiO. 

Proprietor  Robinson’s  Machine  AV’orks, 
Riclimond,  Ind. 

Every  Enriner  Sliossid  liavc 

HARRINGTON’S  Combined  Seed  Sower  and  Cultivator. 
BAKER’S  Patent  Weeding  Hoe. 

GRIFFING’S  Steel  Clipper  Plow. 

CAHOON’S  Hand  Broau-Cast  Seed  Sower. 

Send  for  Circular;  Nortli  River  Agricultnral  Warehouse 
GKIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO.,  PROPUtETORS. 

58  &  60  (lourtlaudt-8t..  New-Tork. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


99 


HORSE  AND  HAND  ROWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  PRESSES. 

These  machines  have  been  tested  in  tiie  most  thoronjrh 
manner  tliroucliouc  this  and  Ibreisn  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  of  over  1C?:).  ,  ,  . 

The  House  Tower  is  worked  by  cither  wlieel  or  capstan, 
and  in  maiiv  respects  possesses  unequalled  advantatres.  \Ve 
invite  those’  wantimr  such  machines  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  cull  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  promptlv  attended  to,  oy  addressing  «  ^  t 

X^'GEUSOLL  &  DOUGHEUTY,  Greenpoint,  Km^s  Co.,L.  I. 


TO  WHOM  IT  MAY  CONCERN.” 


A  Fes'fect  Wallow  Feelea*. 

Peels  rapklly,  Kuns  easily  by  hand  or  Horse  power,  will 
siot^  iiijBBi'c  tile  Willow  in  tlie  lesist.  A  durable 
and  honest  .article.  Send  with  stamp  for  Circular,  with  de¬ 
scription  and  price.  Made  and  sold  by 

EASTHIHlltOOK  &  BKOX SON,  Geneva,  N.  T. 

Sorghum  Sugar  and  Syrup. 

The  snhscrihei's  are  Accents  lor  the  sale  of  COOK’S  SIT- 
GAR.  EVAPORATOR  and  CLARK’S  CANE 
MILLS,  tlie  best  in  use,  and  are  also  prepared  to  supply 
farmers  and  otliers  wilh  clioice  selected  varieties  of  SU¬ 
GAR  CANE  SEED.  For  further  particulars  and  de¬ 
scriptive  paraplilets,  address  BHEWSTEU  &  BOAK, 

Scotchtown,  Orange  Co.,  N.  T. 

PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  FOR  Sabe. 

Tlie  Hog  Breeders'  Manual,  .a  book  every  farmer  should 
have,  with  circular  and  prices  of  nigs,  sent  gratis,  please  en¬ 
close  stamps.  Address  N.  P.  BOVEB  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Clies- 
ter  Co.,  Pa.  Photograplis  of  Cliesler  White  pigs  50  cents  each, 
sent  by  mail. 

f^OR  SALE. — A  liure  bred  Alderney  Bull,  3  years 
old  next  ,Jnne.  Price  $300.  For  particulars,  enquire  of 
I.  PENZ,  155  Soutli-st.,  New-York  City. 

ILIAN  QUEENS  FOR  SALE,  from  the 
most  celebrated  importations.  For  p.articulars  address 
K.  P.  KIDBEH,  Burlington,  Vermont. 

rf-iHE  BEST  MOVABLE  CO-MB  BEEHIVE  IN 

-®.  the  WOULD.  Send  stamp  for  Book  Circular.  K.  P. 
KIDDER,  Burlington,  Vermont. 


n 


RAHMA  FOWLS  FOR  SALE.  ADDRESS 

J.  S.  E-AGON,  Rossville,  Staten  Island,  N.  T. 


The  leading  and  far  largest  circulating  Agriciillui’iil, 
IIortiCMltural,  Literary  anti  Family  News¬ 
paper  in  Americn,  lias  become  so  popular  tliat  various 
persons  are  defrauding  the  people  of  several  States  and  Can¬ 
ada  by  pretending  to  be  traveling  agents.  Beware  of  all 
such  strollers,  for  they  are  swindling  sharpers.  The  Kukal 
New-Toekek  has  no  traveling  agents— only  local  Club 
Agents.  The  safest  way  to  secure  the  paper  is  to  remit  di¬ 
rect  to  tlie  Publisher  or  join  a  club  being  formed  by  some 
one  yon  know. 

TnK  Eukai,  New-Yoekee  is  a  large  and  beautiful  Double 
Quarto  Weekly,  printed  and  illustrated  in  superior  style. 
Compare  its  Contents,  Appearance,  &c.,  with  any  other  jour¬ 
nal  of  equal  or  less  price  and  decide  upon  its  meeits.  Vol¬ 
ume  XVI  commences  with  Jan.,  1SC5,  and  hence  Now  is  the 
Time  to  Svbsceibe.  Teems,  in  Advance  Only  5i3  a  year; 
less  to  clubs,  and  liberal  inducements  (including  81,000  IN 
CASH  PRIZES,)  to  Club  Agents.  Specimens,  Show- 
Bills,  Inducements,  &e.,  sent  fi'ee  on  application.  Back 
numbers  of  this  volume  can  still  be  supplied. 

Address  D.  D.  T.  MOORE,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 


RANDALL’S  PRACTICAL  SHEPHERD,  the 
great  American  work  on  Sheep  Husbandry  (of  which  over 
Twenty  Editions  have  been  issued  in  one  year,)  is  published 
by  D.  D.  T.  Mooee,  Rochester,  N.  Y.,  and  sold  only  by  the 
Publisher  and  Club  Agents  of  the  Rueal  New-Yoekee,  (ex¬ 
cept  in  a  few  counties.)  It  is  a  large  12mo.  volume  of  454 
pages,  handsomely  illustrated,  printed  and  bound.  Price  $2, 
on  receipt  of  which  a  copy  will  be  sent  post-paid  to  any  ad¬ 
dress  in  the  Loyal  States  or  Canada.  Fnrnished  to  ■'Club 
Agents  of  the  Eveal  at  wholesale  price. 

Albums  for  tlie  Million. 


Flas  Seed,  Clover  Seed,  &c. 

Consignments  of  Seeds  and  general  merchandise  solicited, 
and  Higliest  Prices  Giiiiraiitecd,  bv  F.  A.  WHIT- 
INC&CO.,  Commission  Merchants,  104  Water-st.,  New  York. 
Sole  Agents  for  Government  White  Lead  and  (jolor  Works. 
Linseed  Oil  and  all  other  Oils,  “Linseed  Oil  Substitute,” 
Paints,  Putty,  Varnishes,  &c.,  &c.,  at  Manufacturers’  lowest 
rates. 


Cured  bv  Bates’  Patent  Ajipliances.  For  descriptive  pam¬ 
phlet,  address  H.  C.  L.  MEARS, '277  West  23d-st.,  N.  Y. 


We  send  our  Ifi  picture 
PtlCKET  ALBUM  by 
mail.  Post  Pairt,  for 
75  cents,  and  our  34 
picture  Album  for  81.00. 

JUST  THE  THING 

SOLDIERS. 

Samuel  Bowles  &  Co., 

ALBUM 
Maniifivcturei'S, 
Sprixgfield,  Mass. 


Bracers  PutCMt 

C^iiceiitritted  Maiinre 

M.ANUFACTURED  FROM 

Animal  fibre,  Blood,  and  Pure  SSone. 

Sold  by  our  Agents. 

JOHN  JI.  RICHARDS,  111  Commercial-st., 

Boston,  Mass. 

MICUENER  &  YOUNG,  20G  Market-st., 

Philadelphia,  Pa. 

SEND  FOR  AGRICULTURAL  ALMANAC. 

GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

58  &  GO  C’ourtlandt-st.,  New  York. 

SOLE  AGENTS  FOR  THE  UNITED  ST4.TES. 

Tlie  33est  T’ertilizei'*. 

FLOUR  OF  BONE,  jcnburned,  contains  more  Ammonia 
and  Phosphate  of  Lime  than  any  otlier  Fertilizer. 

“Bone  dust  is  the  agent  best  adapted  to  supply  Phosphate 
of  Lime  to  tlie  deeper  layers  of  tlie  arable  soil,  for  which 
the  Superphosphates  are  not  suitable. 

One  pound  of  Bone  produces  in  three  seasons,  ten  pounds 
of  corn,  one  pound  of  Guano,  in  the  course  of  five  years, 
makes  five  pounds  of  cova."—Leibig. 

“  I  find  the  Flour  of  Bone,  made  by  the  Boston  Milling  and 
Manufacturing  Co.,  to  contain  41.7-10  per  cent  of  Phosphate 
of  Lime,  and  ;il.5-10  per  cent  of  dry  animal  matter.  The  de¬ 
composition  of  tlie  latter  in  the  soil  furnishes  Ammonia.  It 
also  contains  one  half  more  Pliosphate  than  Guano.” 

Boston,  Jan.  18G5.  A,  A.  HAYES,  M.  D.,  State  Assayer. 

“  I  find  the  Bone  Flour  manufactured  by  the  Boston  Mil¬ 
ling  and  Manufacturing  Co.,  to  contain  41.5-10  per  cent  of 
animal  matter,  and  ■42  per  cent  of  Pliosphate  of  Lime." 

Boston,  Jan.  186,5.  CUAS.  T.  JACKSON,  M.  D., 

State  Assayer. 

Prepared  only  by  the  BOSTON  MILLING  AND  MANU¬ 
FACTURING  CO.,  and  for  sale  hy  their  Agent. 

CHAS.  A.  GARDNER. 

117  Frout-st.,  New-York. 


S.  B,  CONOVER, 

Dealer^ 

260,  281  &  262  West  Wasliington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Partlcnlar  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
oUici;  Farm  Produce. 

Kelcrs  to  Uie  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist 


Excelsior  Photograpli  Establishment. 

Caed  PnoTOGEAPns  of  all  Prominent  Generals,  and  dis¬ 
tinguished  characters,  and  a  laege  vaeiety  of  iniscellaiie- 
ons  subjects.  Sent  post-paid,  at  10  cts.  each.— “  Special¬ 
ties.”— The  finest  card  pictures  in  the  world— at  15  cts.  each. 
Card  Pliotographs  colored,  20  cts.  each.  PHOTO(JRAPH 
ALBUMS,  holding  from  12  to  200  Pictures,  at  C5  cents  to  $18 
each.  Also,  Rustic  Frames  and  oilier  articles  in  tliis  line  at 
low  prices.  Dealers  supplied  at  the  very  lowe.st  rates.  Cat¬ 
alogues  sent  free.  FY  P.  WHITING, 

87Fnlton-st.,  New-York. 

Also,  Agent  for  PRINCE  &  CO.’S  Celebrated  Melodeons, 
Automatic  Organs  and  Scliool  Organs. 

llaljtolttoiBisiBi  FeiiBmaiislilp. 

“Beautiful  copies  for  practice.- American. 

“Besfarranged  and  most  scientific  system  extant.’’— M,  J. 
Feancisco.  JVc-sL  Francisco's  Business  College. 

“Far  in  advance  of  other  systems.’’— K.  M.  Boggs,  Spert- 
cerlan  Penman. 

“Most  beautiful  and  scientific  of  systems.”— JbKrra.  &Mess. 

“Chaste,  beautiful  and  simple.” — 'N.  Y.  Evangelist. 

“  Tlie  superiority  of  this  plan  is,  that  by  a  new  method  of 
models  and  directions,  any  one  twelve  years  old  can  make  a 
first  class  penmanwithout  schools  or  teacliers.”  Chris.  Berald. 

Gold  and  Silver  Medals  ofi'ered  for  tlie  greatest  improve 
ment  from  these  copies.  Splendid  terms  to  Agents.  The  set, 
complete,  consisting  of  90  copies  on  card-board  slips,  illus¬ 
trated  by  60  wood  cuts  and  a  Cliart,  sent  post-paid  for  $1  50. 
The  beautiful  Babbittonian  Extra  Fine  Pens,  or  Business 
Pens,  post-paid  for  $1  50  per  Gross,  or  50c.  for  36  pens.  Tlie 
Penmansliip  and  72  pens  sent  for  $2.  Address  BABBITT  & 
WILT,  87  Park  Row.  N.  Y.,  or  BABBITT  &  WILT,  Miami 
Commercial  College,  Dayton,  Ohio. 


The  Mew  Mork  15ay  Book. 

FOK  WHITE  SUPREMACY,  STATE  SOV- 
EKEIGNTY,  ANSI  FEDERAL  UNION. 

The  only  paper  that  explains  the  Negro  question.  Made 
up  expressly  for  weekly  circulation— not  re-printed  from  a 
daily. 

TERMS  :  $2  50  per  year;  Three  Copies,  $6  00.  Specimen 
Copies,  containing  full  Club  rates,  sent  free. 

Address  VAN  ENKIE  HORTON  &  CO.,  Publishers, 

162  Nassau-st..  New  York. 


January.  February.  Marcli. 

Curing  Colds.  Cold  Feet.  Neuralgia. 

Weak  Eyes.  Costiveness.  Sick  Headache. 

Bodily  Carriage.  Dyspepsia.  Catarrh. 

HALL’S  JOUR.  HEALTH,  N.  Y.,  $1>^  yearly ;  single  15  cts. 


Send  for  Another  Circular 

Of  the  Claeemont  Manwactveixg  Co’s  (Claremont,  N. 
H.,)  Doi.lae  Packages  of  Papeb  axd  Envelopes.  Or 
send  a  dollar  and  try  one  package. 


PC  R  T  A  B  L  E  BHINTTNG  OFFICES  !— 

T'or  snle  hy  lh(!  ADAMS  PUKSS  CO.,  3r>  Ann-Pt..  New- 
York.  Circtilar  eeiiL  Irce.  Specinion  Sheet  of  TYPK^  CUTS. 
&e.,  six  cents. 


ig^END  CENTS  FORA  SPECIMEN  COPY  of 

^Uie  HICJtAI.D  OF  JIEALTII  AND  -lOUiiNAL  OF  PHYS¬ 
ICAL  CULTUKIC,  and  30  cents  for  the  NEW  HYGIENIC 
Cook  Hook,  with  more  than  GOO  receipts  for  Cookina  the  most 
wholesome  food  for  invalids.  fora  Hand  Mill  forprepar- 
ina:  Hominv,  Cracked  Wheat,  etc.,  and  .li:)  for  the  best  syrinjje 
for  preveniine:  and  enrinej  constijiation,  dyspepsia,  ancf  Liver 
Complaint.  \Vc  publish  a  lartce  list  of  Health  hooks  which 
every  invalid  who  would  be  led  away  from  a  constant  de- 
peinfencc  on  dru;rs  and  quack  medicines  to  nature’s  remedies 
should  read.  Send  3  cents  for  Circulars.  Address  MILLED, 
WOOD  CO.,  15  Laight  street.  New  Y’ork. 


QUEEN’S  PATENT  ROOFING 

Consists  of  a  stout  Canvas,  impregnated  with  a  per¬ 
fectly  water-proof  and  incorruptible  compound,  covered  on 
both  sides  with  a  stout  fabric  made  water-iu’oof  bv  a  solution 
of  INDIA  RUBBER,  and  hardened  by  a  coating  of  PATENT 
METALLIC  PAINT. 

It  isthorouglily  WATER-PROOF. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a 'piece  of  oil-clotli. 

It  makes  the  best  and  most  durable  READY  ROOFING 
ever  introduced. 

It  is  designed  for  DWKLLIN(J  HODSES,  BARNS,  SHEDS, 
STEAMBOATS  and  RAILWAY  CARS. 

It  can  be  laid  down  hy  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  CHEAPER  than  aiiv  known  ROOFING  OF  EQUAL 
DURABILITY. _ HENRY  SMITH,  No.  129  Pearl  st. 

in  a 

-B-  mild  and  healthful  clinmte.  Thirty  miles  fioxiih  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  by  Hailroad.  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soil  is  rich  and  varying  from  a  clavtoa 

sandy  loam,  suitable  for  AVheat,  Grass.  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vciretables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vincyevds  and  Orchards  have  been  jilanted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  irnit  growers.  Grapes.  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  pro/luce 
immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  Stales.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  sj'stem  of  improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  iAe  y'eaort  of  people  of  taste.  It  has  in¬ 
creased  five  thousand  people  witliin  the  past  three  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  liave. 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantlv  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  bouses  are  being  constnuitcd',  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  be  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward.  §:25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  rijien  earlier  in  this  district  tlian  in 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  i)laces 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Y'^ards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  tiie  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  henlthfnl  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  iiupi-ovcd,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  other  social  priyileges,  in  the 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  ■worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answ^ered  and  the  Vineland  liural,  a  paper  civing 
full  information,  and  containing  Keports  of  Solon  Hobiuson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Totvnship,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Rohinsoyiy  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  Jt  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi^ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  oj 
the  Western  Prairies, 


F  ®  IS  ^  A  ff.  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKETGARDENIMG 
L  A.  ]M  13  S 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WIl.!,  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  marker  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  sitnatedin  Ihecountiesof  Oceanand BurIingto>n, 
on  the  line  of  the  Karitan  and  Delaware  Bay  Hailroad,  mid- 
■way  between  New-York  and  Philadelphia,  at  $10  per  acre. 
In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm,  these  lands 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet  potatoes,  peach¬ 
es,  grapes,  tobacco  and  hops.  All  crops  ripen  ten  days  ear¬ 
lier  than  on  Long  Island.  Squanknm  marl  is  delivered  at 
any  point  on  the  railroad  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per 
ton,  and  fertilizes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  applica¬ 
tion.  The  lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow’  pine  timber, 
suitable  for  lumber  and  co'rd  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  ofl'.  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi. 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station.  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  quantity  or  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  the  manufacture  of  yellow’ w’are.  Saw  mill  within 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  ofi'ered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  w’pU  w’atered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  w’ater-power  for  man 
ufacturing  purposes.  The  whole  pnrcliase  money  may  re. 
main  on  mortgage  for  a  term  of  years  if  desired,  if  the  pur¬ 
chaser  cultivates  the  land. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHETWOOD.  Elizabeth.  N.  .1. 

WM.  O.  GILES,  70  &  72  Franklin-st.,  New’-York, 


“  MABALAM®  FAltMS  ” 

We  are  agents  for  the  sale  of  nearly 

Fcbbbb*  HiMaclrecI  Farssss 

in  this  State.  A  printed  list  of  them  can  he  obtained  hy 
sending  postage  stamp  to 

R.  "W.  TEMPLEMAN  &  CO., 

No.  43  Lexington-st.,  (up  stairs)  Baltimore  City,  Md. 

'SUPEieiOie  SO.OiSO 

Acres  at  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms.— Frank- 
linvUle  Tract. — Gloucester  County,  New  Jersey,  25  niilea 
south  of  Philadelphia,  on  Itailrond  running  from  Philadel¬ 
phia  and  Camden  to  Cape  May,  In  lots  to  suit  purchasers. 
Circulars  w’ith  reports  of  Solon  Hobinson,  Hon.  Wm.  Parry, 
and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  free  by  addressing 
JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO.,  Franklinville,  Glo’ucester  Co.. 
New-Jei’sey.  Also  Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


For  sale  at  a  bargain— a  farm  con- 

taining  80  Acres.  60  under  fence,  20  Acres  young  Timber, 
Dwelling  House  and  Barn,  mile  from  H.  1*.  station  and 
Village,  ironting  a  Turnpike,  only  50  dollars  per  acre. 

J.  H.  Coffin,  Franklinville,  Gloucester  Co.,  N  J 


too 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


fMAKCH, 


THE  PHOCtESSS  OP  PLAX  CULTTJEE. 
a:j?IFIS€»VEl>  MACffllMESSY- 
SANFORD  &  MALLORY'S 

FI.AX  ISMAKE, 

Tangled  Straw  Made  Valuable. 
IVew  aBE<!  I>esiJ'all>Ie  Implement. 
THE  STRAW  STEAIGHTEHER. 

While  cotton  held  undisputed  sway  at  the 
head  of  textile  materials,  it  was  difldcult  to 
attract  public  attention  to  the  less  apparent  but 
rapidly  increasing  necessity  for  the  more  ex¬ 
tended  culture  of  flax.  For  a  long  period  the 
home-grown  supply  had  each  year  been  less 
adequate  to  meet  the  growing  demand.  Cheap 
cotton  goods  had  supplanted  homespun  linen, 
and  other  crojjs  had  consequently  taken  the 
place  of  the  small  plots  of  flax  which  formerly 
yielded  the  home  supply,  and  gave  a  small  sur¬ 
plus  for  the  flictories.  Although  flax  manufac¬ 
ture  hau  not  at  all  kept  pace  with  other  branches 
of  mechanical  industry,  nor  with  the  require¬ 
ments  of  the  country,  yet  manufacturers  could 
not  procure  enough  of  the  raw  material  for  their 
own  limited  wants ;  so  that,  even  without  the 
extraordinary  demand  created  by  the  shorten¬ 
ing  of  liie  cotton  supply  in  consequence  of  the 
war,  there  was  pressing  need  for  the  extension 
of  flax  culture.  One  great  obstacle  however 
was  to  be  first  overcome.  The  old  methods  of 
prepai'ing  the  fibre  for  market  -were  tedious,  ex¬ 
pensive,  and  unpleasant.  Enterprising  men  ac¬ 
customed  to  mowcr.s,  reapers,  threshing  ma¬ 
chines,  etc.,  could  not  be  prevailed  on  to  adopt 
the  slow  process  of  hand  pulling,  or  to  take  hold 
of  the  antiquated  handbrake  and  swingle,  and 
hence  where  flax  growing  had  been  found  pro¬ 
fitable  for  the  sake  of  the  seed  alone,  the  straw 
was  neglected  and  either  burned,  or  suffered  to 
accumulate  in  unsightly  heaps.  About  the  time 


SANFORD  &  MAIXOnx’S  FLAX  BRAKE. 


the  war  broke  out,  and  just  when  the  need  of 
improved  machinery  began  to  be  most  severely 
felt,  the  new  and  improved  Flax  Brake,  invent¬ 
ed  by  Messrs.  Sanford  and  Mallory,  was  brought 
before  the  public.  Its  importance  justified  the 
favorable  notice  made  of  it  at  the  time  in  the 
Agriculturist  and  other  leading  journals,  and  its 
subsequent  successful  working  has  more  than 
confirmed  the  good  opinion  of  it  then  enter¬ 
tained.  Prominent  manufacturers  who  have 
put  these  brakes  to  practical  test  for  two  or 
three  years,  are  unanimous  in  their  testimony 
to  its  great  superiority  to  the  brakes  formerly  in 
use,  both  in  the  amount  of  work  it  performs, 
and  in  the  saving  of  stock.  Another  feature  of 
hardly  less  importance  is  the  fact,  that  while  the 
use  of  the  old  brake  required  skilled  labor,  and 
that  even  with  this  there  was  danger  to  life  or 
limb  of  the  operator,  the  new  machine  can  be 
run  with  entire  safety  by  any  ordinary  farm 


hand.  In  the  November  Agriculturist  is  an 
account  of  its  being  successfully  worked  by  the 
daughters  of  a  gentleman  who  exhibited  it  at  the 
New  York  State  Fair.  This  enables  the  fai’- 
mers  of  a  neighborhood  who  engage  in  raising 
flax,  to  unite  in  purchasing  a  brake  to  be  run 
with  horse  power  by  themselves,  and  thus  to 
turn  their  straw  as  well  as  seed  to  account.  At 
present  rates,  the  straw  will  give  the  largest  re¬ 
turns,  and  none  can  afford  to  let  it  go  to  waste. 
Enterprising  men  are  entering  the  business  of 
flax  dressing,  contracting  for  the  straw  and  pre¬ 
paring  to  dress  it  for  the  manufacturers’  use, 
and  there  can  be  little  doubt  that  they  will  find 
it  most  profitable.  In  France  this  preparation 
of  fibre  forms  a  distinct  branch  of  labor,  en¬ 
trusted  to  men  called  liniers,  and  by  this  division 
of  labor  the  work  can  be  more  easily  and  suc¬ 
cessfully  conducted.  The  new  machinery  will 
do  much  toward  establishing  such  an  arrange¬ 
ment  in  this  country  to  the  benefit  of  all  parties 
concerned. 

Hardly  second  in  importance  to  the  improved 
brake  is  a  new  machine,  called  the  “  Straw 
Straightener,”  just  brought  out  by  the  same 
inventors,  for  the  purpose  of  preparing  tangled 
straw  for  the  brake,  and  thus  making  available 
the  supply  which  is  raised  only  for  seed  and 
threshed  out  by  horses  or  otherwise.  We  give 
an  illustration  of  the  implement  above.  It  con¬ 
sists  of  a  revolving  skeleton  cylinder,  armed 
with  teeth  set  at  a  proper  angle,  which  take 
hold  of  the  tangled  straw  as  it  leaves  the  feed¬ 
ing  board.  The  top  of  this  cjdinder  is  enclosed 
by  a  concave  cast  iron  cover,  provided  with 
groves  through  which  the  teeth  of  the  cylinder 
run.  At  the  rear  of  the  machine  opposite  the 
middle  of  the  cylinder  and  parallel  with  it,  are 
two  fluted  rollers,  between  which  the  flax  passes 
as  it  leaves  the  cylinder.  These  revolve  a  little 
faster  than  the  cylinder,  so  that  they  slightly 
draw  the  flax  over  the  teeth  and  through  the 
grooves  in  the  cover,  and  by  this  action,  together 
with  the  revolving  of  the  cylinder,  the  tangled 
straw  is  straightened  and  prepared  to  pass  at 
right  angles  over  the  fluted  rollers  of  the  brake, 
so  that  it  may  be  broken  as  perfectly  as  straight 


hand-pulled  straw.  This  machine  was  visited 
by  three  editors  of  the  American  Agriculturist  in 
company  with  several  gentlemen  engaged  in  tlie 
flax  business,  who  examined  it  carefully  while 
in  operation,  and  all  agreed  as  to  its  efficiency 
and  great  value.  Perhaps  the  best  evidence  of 
its  excellence  is  the  fact,  that  fifteen  of  the  ma¬ 
chines  were  at  once  ordered  by  manufacturers 
upon  the  first  inspection,  and  before  any  cir¬ 
cular  or  advertisement  of  it  had  been  issued. 

'  This  implement  is  all  the  more  valuable,  be¬ 
cause  it  can  be  used  as  an  adjunct,  to  prepare 
tangled  straw  for  any  style  of  brake  now  in  use. 

Cotton  was  introduced  because  it  w’as  cheaper 
— not  better — than  flax,  and  now  that  by  the 
aid  of  these  improvements  flax  can  be  produced 
cheaper  than  cotton,  the  scale  must  again  turn, 
and  those  who  engage  in  the  business  will  reap 
the  profits.  Already  since  the  introduction  of 
these  brakes,  the  production  of  dressed  fibre 
has  more  than  quadrupled,  being  30,000,000  lbs. 
now,  against  7,000,000  formerly.  The  seed  alone 
will  handsomelj’’  pay  for  raising  a  crop,  leaving 
the  lint  to  greatly  increase  the  profit.  The 
market  can  not  be  overstocked  for  years,  as 
new  uses  are  constantly  calling  for  increased 
supply.  A  single  India  rubber  belt  manufac¬ 
turing  company,  in  New  York  City,  now  use 
flax  annually  amounting  to  more  than  one 
seventh  of  the  entire  product  of  the  whole 
country  before  the  war ;  they  find  it  better  than 
cotton,  and  will  never  return  to  their  former 
method  of  manufacture.  While  those  who  now 
engage  in  flax  raising  and  flax  breaking,  will 
reap  splendid  profits,  the  return  of  low  prices 
will  not  cause  failure,  as  the  demand  and  price 
will  inevitably  continue  remunerative.  Thus 
a  most  inviting  field  is  open  for  capital  and 
enterprise,  which  for  the  good  of  the  country  as 
well  as  individual  profit  should  be  at  once  en¬ 
tered  upon. 

Full  and  interesting  details  concerning  the 
above  machines  are  given  in  a  pamphlet  issued 
by  the  Sanford  &  Mallory  Flax  Machine  Co., 
which  may  be  obtained  by  addressing 

Mr.  JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 
Treasurer,  98  William  St.,  New  Twk  City. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


FOR  THE 


TTarin,  Grarden,  and  KConseliold. 

“AOKICULTUKE  is  TUE  most  IIEAETUFCI,,  MOST  USEFUL,  AND  MOST  NOHLE  EMl'LOYMENT  OF  MAN.”-W*bb, kotos. 


ORANGE  JUOO,  A.M., 

PtTBLISHEB  AND  PEOPHIETOK. 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

Published  also  in  German  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


$1.50  PER  ANEUM,  IE  ADVANCE, 
SINGLE  NUMBER,  IS  CENTS. 

4  Copies  for  $  5  •  10  for  S 13;  30  or  more,  S 1  each 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  4. 


NEW- YORK,  APRIL.  1805. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  219. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  the  year  1S«.  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  the  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  Comt  of 

the  United  States  for  the  Sontliern  District  ot  New-York 
Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  i/each  article  be  credited  to  A?ngncan  Agriculturist. 


Contents  for  April,  1865. 


.121 

.124 


Advertisers  and  Readers— A  word  to . 

Asparagus — Directions  for  Culture . . 

Bees— Apiary  in  April . 

Books  for  Farmers  and  others ....... ...  •  ..••••  •  •  -  y  •  • 

Bovs  and  Girls’  Columns— About  the  Month  of  Apiil 
Make  Friends  among  the  Birds— Beware  of  a.Ptev- 
alent  Vice-The  Play  of  Charades-A  Go<^  Hint 
for  the  Boys  and  Girls— Damaged  Glass-Puzxles 
and  Problems-No  Hand  Like  a  MothePs-A  Cun¬ 
ning  Old  Rat— Harry’s  most  Successful  Effoit 

out  for  the  Weak  Point  . 5  HZusfrafions.. 125-126 

Broom  Corn-Notes  on  Cultivation... . 

Cabbages— Notes  on  Varieties . 

Carpets— Management  of .........  y  . . 

Cattle-Warbles,  Cause  and  Treatment..  ....... ^ 

Claytoniaor  Spring  Beauty . Illustrated..}^ 

Cold  Grapery— Experience  with . 

Cold  Grapery  in  April . . 

Corn  Ground— How  to  Plow . 

Corn— Selecting  Seed . ' "  "  i  u 

Cows— Direction  for  Spaying . J*’ 

Cows— Treatment  at  Calving  Time . Go 

Cranberries  in  the  Carden . . . . .  •  •  . . ■■■■,; 

Currant  Bushes-Plant  this  Spring . V.'," ’Z ' 'Z  V  .Tn 

Daphne  Mezereum . Illustrated.  .1} 

Farm  Work  in  April . . . 

Fashions,  Comfort  and  Health . ,’1.1  i„ 

Fl.ax  Culture— $50 Prize  Essay..  13  Hfusfrarions. .lOi-lll 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  April........ . 103 

Flowers— Herbaceous  Perennials . IG 

Fruit  Trees— Cultivation  of . . 1-0 

Fruit  Garden  in  April . 104 

Fruit  Growers’  Meetings . 1^ 

Garden*Seeds— Notes  on  Raising . . . Gl 

Gardens  for  Farmers . . . yll® 

Grape  Vines— Directions  for  Planting. ..  .//lMsfrafcd..l20 
Grass — Distinguishing  Species.  .III... 3  Illustrations . .\}b 

Grass,  Kentucky  Blue— Notes  on . ...115 

Grass,  Orchard- Notes  on..... . 114 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  April . Wn'V  i’vTia 

Harkness’ Nursery  Tree  Digger.... .....Iffusfrafed..!  9 

Hav— Amount  Required  by  Cattle . G3 

Hoe.,— Benefit  of  Sharpening.............. . G4 

Household— Practical  Odds  and  Ends  for  the . 124 

..ands  Cheap— on  the  Atlantic  Coast . 105 

Lawn  or  Grass  Plot— Making . 122 

Market  Reports,  etc  . 104 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  April . . . ....... lUI 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  April . 102 

Papering  Walls— Suggestions . ..123 

Poultry— Bones  Useful  for . -Gv 

Ponllry— Preventing  Gapes  in  Chickens . 113 

Premiums  for  1865 . 104 

Recipes— Sweet  Apple  Syrup— Potato  Syrup— Cheese 
Omelet— Crackers— Potato  Yeast— Drying  Squash  or 
Pumpkin — Baked  Hubbard  Squash.... ............ .125 

Seeds— Starting  in  Pots . . . 

Sheep  Raisers  “  Striking  He” . . Illustrated.. \1S 

Shrubbery  in  Spring . -  •  - -  V  ’  ’  ’ 

Socks  Made  of  Cloth . Illustrated.. 

S,oda,  Saleratns,  Quick  Yeast,  etc..... . ..124 

Strawberry  Show  in  June . 104 

Strawberries — Notes  on . . 121 

Stump  Pulling  Apparatus— Cheap . Illustrated .  .IH 

Swine — Best  Large  Breed . 112 

Tainted  Meat,  Fish  etc.— Treatment  of . 124 

Tallow  Candles — Improved. . 124 

Tirn  Bunker  on  “  Striking  lie”. . 116 

Y heat— Preparation  for  Sowing .  112 

Wheat.  Spring— Best  Soils  for . 112 

W hitewasliing — Directions  for . 123 

Wood  Anemone  or  Wind  Flower . Illustrated.  .V21 

Wool— Value  of  Yolk . . Illustrated. .}}% 

INDEX  TO  “^ASKET.”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 

Advertisements,  Land..  1071  Catalogues  Received. . .  107 
Agricnlliiral  Reports. . .  106'  Cider,  Keeping  Sweet. .  106 

Beef  for  Soldiers .  107  Clubs,  Increasing .  105 

Bene  Plant, .  196  Cork  Oak .  106 

Black  Currants .  106  Crowded  Out .  105 

Books  Good .  107  Downing’s  Landscape..  107 


Evei'lasting  Flowers. . .  1061 
Farms  in  Iowa,  etc...  106 
Flax  and  Hop  IBooks.  .  105 

German  Edition .  105 

Gipsies’  Charms . 106 

Gladiolus  bulbs .  106 

Gloves  for  Gardening. .  106 
Howard  Association....  106, 

Humbug .  106' 

Humbug  Advertisem’ts..  106 

L’Estragon . 106 

Magazine— New . 107 

Mails  from  Pacific - ..107 

Manure  fora  Garden  —  106 
Massachusetts  Coffee... .106 
Monstrous  Capacity  ...106 

Name  for  a  Seed . 106 

New  Magazine . 107 

Number  -  Large . 105 

Osier  Willows . 106 


Park  Row.  Park  Place.. 106 

Premiums  for  all . 107 

■Rags,  Sell  Now . 107 

Rust,  Preventing . 106 

Sheep  and  Fences .  106 

Sorghum,  How  to  Plant. 106 

Sorghum  in  China . 106 

Sleam  Engine.  Glass - 107 

Strawberry  Distribution.I07 

Subscriptions—  Date . 105 

Sweet  Potatoes . 107 

Tobacco  Book... . 107 

Tobacco  Seed  Beds ... .  107 

Turpentine  Making - 106 

Vinegar  in  Cement . 106 

Wash  Machine — Doty’s. 107 
Weed.  Elecampane  ..  106 

Willow  Frauds.  . . 106 

Wolves  and  Gophers  — 106 
Woodward’s  Houses. . .  .107 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 


With  the  advent  of  April,  all  animated  nature 
merges  from  the  long  reign  of  winter  and  com¬ 
mences  life  anew.  In  this  latitude  the  tender 
grass  comes  springing  up  everywhere ;  in  seclud¬ 
ed  nooks  of  the  fields  and  on  the  sunny  hill¬ 
side  flowers  are  opening  their  petals  to  catch  the 
sunshine.  The  song  of  the  blue  bird — “There’ll 
be  no  more  winter” — admonishes  us  that  it  is 
time  to  prepare  for  field  operations,  and  all  the 
forces  of  the  farm  have  already  commenced,  or 
are  just  beginning  the  labors  of  the  season. 

Animals. — April  is  one  of  tlie  most  critical  pe¬ 
riods  of  the  year  with  our  domestic  animals,  es¬ 
pecially  with  the  females.  Have  a  care  before¬ 
hand  that  none  suffer  from  lack  of  a  sufficiency 
and  variety  of  feed.  Let  roots  be  fed  at  least  in 
small  quantities  wherever  practicable.  Use  the 
card  and  brush  freely  on  horses  and  neat  stock, 
and  see  to  it  that  the  active  fermentation  which 
the  warm  weather  Avill  cause  in  the  manure  does 
not  affect  the  stock  unfavorably.  See  “Basket” 
item  on  vermin.  Mares,  cows,  ewes  and  sows, 
are  all  liable  to  slink  their  young  at  this  time  of 
the  year,  unless  they  receive  constant  care,  not 
once  a  week,  but  several  times  a  day.  It  is  an 
erroneous  notion  that  the  causes  of  abor¬ 
tion  are  very  obscure.  It  is  unnatural  for  ani¬ 
mals  to  bring  forth  prematurely,  and  the  reason 
for  their  doing  so  is  often  plain.  Sometimes  it 
is  caused  by  lack  of  sufficient  nourishment,  w’ater 
and  feed,  sometimes  by  ergot,  and  perhaps  smut, 
or  poisonous  fungi  in  the  hay ;  sometimes  by 
over-exertion,  by  slipping  down,  or  by  some  act 
of  violence,  such  as  a  kick  in  the  flank  with  a  big 
boot,  a  severe  hooking,  or  worrying,  or  some¬ 
thing  else.  Mares  and  cows  frequently  slink 
their  young  in  April  for  want  of  water  and 
sometimes  from  being  compelled  to  drink  im¬ 
pure  water,  especially  tliat  impregnated  with 
manure — either  upon  the  surface,  or  from 
wells  in  the  barn-yard  into  which  the  leachings 
run.  Feed  v/hole  grain  to  no  animals,  ex¬ 
cept  sheep  having  good  teeth.  See  that  enough 
coarse  grain  is  ground  to  last  teams  and  stock 
until  pasture  time,  so  that  it  will  not  he  neces¬ 
sary  to  go  to  mill  when  teams  should  be  plow¬ 
ing.  As  the  warm  weather  comes  on,  and  ani¬ 


mals  begin  to  shed  their  hair,  they  will  consume 
as  much  feed  as  in  the  winter,  if  it  be  good. 

Barley. — If  the  soil  be  in  a  good  slate,  sow  as 
soon  as  the  ground  will  do  to  plow.  If  possible, 
obtain  seed  free  from  oats,  buckwlieat  and 
spring  wheat,  as  all  such  grain  is  a  nuisance 
when  the  barley  is  malted.  In  the  best  regions 
for  barley,  good  farmers  are  so  careful  to  keep 
the  crop  free  from  oats  that  they  will  not  allow 
unground  oats  to  be  fed  to  their  teams  M’hile 
they  are  preparing  the  ground  or  putting  in  the 
seed.  Always  keep  the  two-rowed,  four-rowed, 
and  six-rowed  barley  separate,  because,  during 
the  malting  process,  different  kinds  will  not 
malt  in  the  same  time.  Old  barley  should  never 
be  mingled  with  new  when  sold,  as  the  two 
will  not  malt  alike,  and  a  loss  must  be  sus¬ 
tained  by  the  brewers  to  the  farmer’s  discredit. 
Birds. — Whatever  havoc  birds  maj’  make  among 
the  fruits  in  summer,  during  April  and  May 
they  live  upon  insects,  and  the  number  tliey  de¬ 
stroy  is  immense.  Happy  is  he  who  has  his 
garden  full  of  them.  Wrens  and  bluebirds 
especially  should  he  courted  and  furnished 
with  houses  of  appropriate  sizes  ;  for  wrens, 
boxes  4x4  with  an  inch  hole  for  entrance  two 
inches  above  the  floor;  for  bluebirds,  Gx6  with 
li  inch  hole.  Colonize  the  different  birds  in 
separate  places,  for  the  wrens  are  quarrelsome. 

Cattle. — Cows  that  have  not  yet  calved  should 
be  allowed  to  stand  several  hours  daily  in  large 
sunny  yards.  If  the  calves  be  removed  from  milch 
cows  as  soon  as  dropped,  the  cow  is  less  wor¬ 
ried  than  if  they  are  taken  away  after  she  has 
become  attached  to  them.  New  milch  cows 
ought  to  have  roots  or  some  green  succulent, 
feed  at  this  season :  ■what  is  called  “slops,”  sup¬ 
plies  the  place  of  more  natural  and  better  thing.s. 
This  is  one  of  the  worst  mouths  for  caked  bag, 
garget,  milk  fever,  etc.;  watch  for  the  first  symp¬ 
toms  and  check  the  disease  if  possible.  Beeves. 
Increase  the  amount  of  meal  fed  to  fattening 
bullocks.  Do  not  require  them  to  eat  too 
much  cut  straw  with  it.  Coarse  meal  will 
digest  more  readily  if  soaked  over  night. 
During  April,  bullocks  three  years  old 
should  receive  from  ten  to  fifteen  pounds 
of  fine  corn  meal  mingled  with  wet  straw 
during  the  dajA  Meal  fed  at  this  season  of  the 
year  will  prepare  them  to  lay  on  fat  and  flesh 
when  they  are  turned  to  grass.  This  is  equally 
true  of  fattening  sheep  designed  for  early  mutton. 
Working  Oxen. — See  that  the  yokes  are  right 
and  bows  are  not  so  short  as  to  choke  them. 
Feed  working  cattle  well  and  handle  them  care¬ 
fully,  and  they  will  grow  fiit  every  day’  and  bo 
worth  more  for  beef  next  summer  than  they 
may  he  bought  for  now.  Oxen  will  endure  the 
heat  nearly  as  well  as  horses  if  fed  as  well  and 
not  abused  and  worried  by  bad  driving.  Always 
allow  them  at  least  two  hours  during  the  mid¬ 
dle  of  the  day  for  rest  and  chewing  the  cud — time 
for  which  is  quite  as  necessary  as  time  to  fec(L 


102 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[ApbUi, 


Carrots — .M:\y  tie  sown  as  early  as  the  ground  can 
be  put  in  irood  order.  Tlio  J.oni;'  Orans^o  is  the 
favorite  field  variety,  tUoug'h  the  White  Belgian  is 
said  to  be  more  prodiietivo;  and,  if  so,  it  is  better 
for  feeding,  but  not  for  market.  Sow  3  pounds  of 
seed  to  the  acre  by  hand,  and  1  to  by  machine. 

Cellars. — Do  not  neglect  to  clean  them  out  tho¬ 
roughly,  removing  all  decaying  vegetables,  wood, 
etc.  Where  cabbages  or  potatoes  have  lain  and 
decayed  in  part,  it  is  well  to  sprinkle  dry  ashes  or 
fresh  loam,  removing  it  after  a  day  or  two.  White¬ 
wash  every  part,  except  the  floor,  which  may  well 
be  sprinkled  with  lime.  See  article  on  page  123. 

Clover. — See  article  in  the  Basket. 

DrainHg. — This  is  the  best  season  to  see  where 
drainage  is  needed,  and  to  appreciate  its  advantages 
as  shown  in  land  well  nuderdrained,  though  the 
maximum  effect  may  not  be  seen  for  a  year  or  two. 
If  there  is  any  time  to  spare  from  other  and  more 
important  work,  push  forward  the  drains.  Round 
tiles  with  collars  are  the  best,  but  not  easy  to  get. 

Fences,  Posts,  and  Oates. — See  article  in  Basket. 

Fowls. — Collect  eggs  of  all  kinds  before  evening, 
lest  they  be  injured  during  cold  nights.  Place 
those  designed  for  setting  in  a  pan  of  bran  or  oats, 
little  end  down,  to  keep  the  yolk  from  the  side  and 
adhering  to  the  shell.  Hens  and  other  female  birds 
turn  over  their  eggs  frequently,  both  before  and 
during  the  period  of  their  incubation.  M.ark 
choice  eggs  with  red  chalk  or  pencil. 

Oram  Fields. — As  soon  as  the  frost  is  out,  and  the 
ground  is  settled,  it  is  well  to  go  over  the  land  and 
pick  off  the  stones  that  have  been  heaved  up.  On 
much  land  the  grain  is  benefited  by  rolling,  espe¬ 
cially  when  it  has  been  thrown  out  by  the  frost.  On 
other  soils  this  is  injurious.  Top  dressings  of  ashes, 
•ashes  and  plaster,  superphosphate,  guano,  ammoni- 
acal  salts  or  similar  substances  which  c.an  be  sowed 
by  hand,  usually  produce  good  results,  especially  if 
the  grain  is  winter  killed  in  spots  or  does  not  look 
thrifty.  Coarse  weeds  may  often  be  pulled  easily 
or  cut  up  with  a  “spud”  at  this  time. 

Hogs. — Secure  a  good  stock  of  pigs  or  shoats  for 
manure  makers.  Give  good  care  to  brood  sows. 
See  hints  in  last  Agricidtarist  .about  flirrowing. 

Horses. — While  they  are  shedding  their  coats  the 
ski*’  makes  heavy  demands  on  the  organs  of  nutri¬ 
tion  ;  it  is  peculiarly  sensitive  to  cold,  to  avet  and 
drafts,  and  horses  are  liable  to  take  cold.  They 
should,  therefore,  be  well  fed,  .and  groomed,  and 
blanketed  avhen  exposed,  quite  .as  well  as  in  mid¬ 
winter.  Be  careful  about  letting  horses  that  are 
shod  get  loose  in  the  lots  together.  They  are  pl.ay- 
ful,  and  in  their  play  often  kick  one  another  severe¬ 
ly.  Horses  intended  for  the  market  should  never 
be  used  before  the  plow  nor  for  hard  labor. 
Neither  should  those  used  for  fast  work  on  the 
road,  nor  showy  carriage  horses  ;  it  makes  them  stiff 
and  awkward  and  will  seriously  affect  their  v.alue. 

Irrigation. — Tons  of  good  fertilizing  matter  are 
c.arried  off  in  small  streams,  which  might  be  con¬ 
ducted  over  our  farms,  especially  grass  lands  with 
great  profit.  Turn  streams  of  mnddy  water  from 
the  highway  on  fields  so  that  it  will  spread  over 
a  large  surface.  Fine  earth,  horse-droppings,  etc., 
washed  from  the  beaten  track  will  increase  the 
quantity  of  gr.ass  quite  as  much  as  a  top-dressing 
of  manure,  and  the  water,  aside  from  what  is  sus¬ 
pended  or  dissolved  in  it,  is  of  great  benefit. 

Implements. — Purchase  no  new  kinds  but  those 
that  have  been  well  tested.  Look  out  for  such  as 
will  require  the  least  force  to  work  them.  If 
possible,  procure  those  made  near  home,  that  in 
case  of  a  break-down  they  may  be  rep.aired  at  the 
least  expense.  If  a  avheel  of  a  reaper  or  mower 
were  to  break,  and  one  avere  obliged  to  send  four 
or  five  hundred  miles  to  the  fixetory  for  a  new  one, 
he  would  probably  sustain  much  loss  before  it 
could  be  put  in  running  order  ag.ain.  Protect  all 
tools  and  implements  from  rain  and  sunshine. 

Improvement. — This  should  be  the  watchword  of 
farmers  during  the  entire  year.  Improve  the  fer¬ 
tility  of  the  soil  by  a  better  system  of  management, 
and  by  making  more  manure.  Improve  stock  by 
disposing  of  inferior  animals,  substituting  better 
one*  :  and  improve  the  man  himself  by  reading  good 


agricultural  papers,  and  in  every  way  gaining  and 
communicating  useful  knowledge. 

Manure. — If  possible  spread  a  good  dressing  of 
barn-yard  manure  upon  corn  ground  unless  you 
have  a  short  supply,  and  it  is  fine  enough  to  be  ap¬ 
plied  in  the  hill.  When  barn-y.ard  manure  is 
hauled  to  the  field  several  weeks  previous  to  being 
plowed  under,  put  it  in  close  heaps  to  prevent  loss 
by  evaporation,  and  if  possible  shovel  a  little  soil 
over  it.  Spread  no  faster  than  it  can  be  plowed  in. 
Make  a  compost  rich  in  manure,  when  fine  muck 
can  be  obtained,  for  manuring  Indian  corn  in  the 
hill.  Where  dung  heaps  heat,  devise  some  means  for 
pumping  the  liquid  over  it,which  leaches  from  it. 

Meadows. — Keep  all  kinds  of  animals  off  meadows 
in  the  Spring  if  you  would  have  a  good  crop  of 
hay.  Better  pay  double  price  for  hay  than  to 
allow  animals  to  graze  on  meadows.  Make  a  light, 
long-handled  mallet,  and  knock  to  pieces  all  the 
droppings  of  animals  on  meadows  and  pastures. 
Pick  up  small  stones  in  heaps,  and  haul  off  as  soon 
as  the  soil  will  bear  up  a  te.am.  If  .ashes,  leached 
or  unleached,  gypsum  or  lime,  or  ground  bone  is  to 
be  sowed,  the  sooner  it  is  done  the  better. 

Oats. — Sow  as  early  as  practicable.  Drill  in  both 
ways  using  half  the  desired  quantity  each  time. 
Sow  not  less  than  three  bushels  per  acre,  with  all 
the  liglit  kernels  .and  foul  seeds  removed. 

Pastures. — Never  allow  animals  to  graze  on  newly- 
seeded  pastures  before  the  gr.ass  has  a  good  start. 
The  feet  of  heavy  animals  destroy  much  grass.  At 
first  let  c.attle  graze  about  two  hours,  then  yard 
them.  On  new  land  where  the  blue  grass  starts 
soon,  feed  it  off  early  in  the  spring,  and  keep  it 
short;  few  anim.als  like  it  after  seed-stalks  appear. 

Plowing. — Never  plow  heavy  soils  when  wet,  be¬ 
cause  .as  soon  as  the  surplus  avater  has  settled  awiiy 
they  will  be  as  comijact  as  before.  Plow  dry  por¬ 
tions  of  a  field  first,  and  aim  to  plow  heavy  soils 
when  they  are  just  moist  enough  to  pulverize  well. 
Never  plow  with  a  dull  share  or  ].ioint;and  grind 
every  part  of  the  plow  until  the  earth  will  slip  off 
readily.  If  earth  adheres,  a  plow  runs  harder, 
holds  harder,  and  does  its  work  imperfectly. 

Potatoes. — If  it  has  not  been  done  already,  select 
the  best  for  seed.  As  the  largest  eyes  are  best  for 
seed,  save  the  seed  ends  of  those  that  are  used 
for  cooking,  and  start  them  in  small  flower  pots,  or 
oyster  kegs,  placed  on  the  shelf  in  the  kitchen. 
They  can  be  turned  out  of  the  pots  .and  trans¬ 
planted  in  drills  as  soon  as  danger  from  frost  is 
passed.  Better  pay  double  price  for  ripe  seed  of 
fair  size  selected  when  dug,  than  to  plant  potatoes 
that  have  not  been  raised  and  assorted  with  care. 

Rrje. — Sow  spring  rye  as  soon  as  the  soil  has  set¬ 
tled  and  is  dry  enough  to  plow.  The  str.aw  will  be 
needed  next  fall  for  binding  corn  stalks,  and  it  is 
considered  better  than  other  6tr.aw  to  cut  for 
horses.  The  grain  m.akes  the  best  kind  of  meal  for 
teams.  Seed  can  be  obtained  in  most  seed  stores. 

Roots. — Every  farmer  ought  to  raise  roots  enough 
to  feed  his  horses  and  neat  stock,  including  calves, 
from  a  peck  to  half  a  bushel  a  day,  on  an  aver.age, 
and  have  enough  for  his  sheep  besides.  Calculate 
to  get,  with  good  cultivation,  800  to  1,000  bush¬ 
els  to  the  acre.  Begin  in  April  to  prepare  the  soil, 
manuring  well,  plowing  deeply.  Harrow  thor¬ 
oughly.  Sow  parsnips  .and  carrots  in  April  and 
mangels  in  May,  rutabagas  in  June  and  sweet 
turnips  in  June  or  July.  Select  a  fexv  of  the  best 
beets,  turnips,  carrots  and  parsnips  before  they 
.are  fed  out,  and  transplant  them  for  raising  seed.  It 
is  quite  as  important  to  raise  and  select  seed  for 
roots  with  care  as  it  is  for  a  crop  of  cereal  grain. 

Sheep. — Keep  their  yard  dry  and  well  littered, 
and  protect  them  from  cold  .and  wet  storms.  Sheep 
dislike  wet  yards  and  leaky  roofs  as  much  .as  a  cat 
hates  a  avet  floor.  Give  them  a  few  hemlock  or 
pine  boughs  to  browse  .at  least  twice  a  week,  even 
when  they  receive  a  daily  allowance  of  roots.  Keep 
a  watchful  eye  on  early  lambs.  When  chilled,warm 
them  thoroughly  by  the  fire.  When  they  cannot 
stand,  put  them  into  a  tub  of  tepid  water  and  rub 
them  with  a  soft  cloth  till  they  revive,  then  rub 
dry  and  feed  with  warm  sweet  milk,  and  put  the 
dam  in  a  comfortable  place.  Itijs  an  erroneous  no- 
,  tion  that  chilled  lambs  must  not  be  near  the  fire. 


Sunshine. — Every  animal  should  have  the  benefit 
of  the  sunshine  as  w'ell  as  light.  Such  as  have  been 
kept  in  close  quarters  all  winter  should  be  allowed 
to  go  out  and  bask  in  the  sunshine  every  day 
Sunshine  in  the  spring  is  a  great  luxury  for  all  kinds 
of  animals,  and  promotes  their  health  and  thrift. 

Wheat. — The  varieties  of  spring  wheat  that  appear 
to  take  the  lead  at  present  are  the  Scotch  Fife, 
Golden  Drop,  the  Canada  Club  and  the  China  Te.a. 
In  different  localities  one  kind  appears  to  suc¬ 
ceed  better  than  another.  When  none  of  these 
kinds  can  be  obtained  in  the  country,  get  them  of 
dealers  in  seed  in  the  large  cities.  Prepare  the  seed 
as  directed  on  page  112,  and  drill  in,  or  sow  in  good 
season.  If  sowed  early,  unless  the  land  is  very 
wet,  the  young  plants  will  root  deeper,  tiller  more, 
.and  the  yield  of  grain  will  be  larger. 

IFood. — Read  remarks  on  fire  wood  and  wood 
houses  in  the  Agriculturist  for  last  month.  Saw, 
split  fine  and  pile  before  both  the  hands  and  the 
teams  are  required  in  the  field. 


Work  Ih  tlic  Oreiisird  and  Knrsery. 

— April  is  usu.ally  a  busy  month  with  the  nursery- 
m<an,  and  he  will  now  appreciate  the  value  of  all 
prepar.ations  made  in  advance  to  meet  the  rush  ot 
business.  The  purchaser  of  trees,  if  he  has  pre¬ 
pared  his  lands,  staked  out  the  places  for  the 
trees,  and  even  made  the  holes  to  receive  them, 
will  find  the  work  of  planting  an  orchard  more  than 
half  done.  The  general  remarks  of  last  month’s 
calendar  should  be  heeded  now.  We  repe.at  the 
caution  to  exercise  the  greatest  care  in  procuring 
trees  from  a  reliable  source.  An  orchard  is  to  last 
for  a  life-time,  and  we  well  know  the  disappoint¬ 
ment  xvhich  is  felt  at  finding  trees  which  have  been 
carefully  planted  and  brought  into  bearing,  untrue 
to  name.  No  honest  nurseryman  will  object  to  this 
advice,  and  we  avish  to  encourage  such  only. 

Almonds. — These  will  grow  and  fruit  wherever 
the  peach  will  do  well.  Plant  early. 

Orafiing.—The  proper  time  is  when  the  buds 
show  signs  of  bursting.  Cions  put  in  too  early 
often  dry  out  before  they  form  a  union  with  the 
stoek.  It  is  not  praeticable  for  us  to  publish  each 
year  full  directions  for  grafting  and  similar  opera¬ 
tions.  A  very  fully  illustrated  article  was  giveu  in 
the  issue  for  March  of  last  year,  which  may  be  pro¬ 
cured  by  those  new  subscribers  avho  have  had  no 
practice  in  grafting.  Directions  for  grafting  clay 
were  given  last  month,  to  be  used  in  place  of  graft¬ 
ing  wax,  now  so  expensive  on  account  of  the  high 
price  of  rosin.  Those  who  live  where  Balsam  Fir 
Trees  grow,  can  make  use  of  the  resinous  exuda¬ 
tion  furnished  by  these,  known  as  C.anada  Balsam. 
A  correspondent  in  Chester  Co.,  Pa.,  uses  four 
parts  of  beeswax  to  one  of  b.alsam,  the  wax  being 
melted  and  the  b.alsam  stirred  in  until  thoroughly 
incorporated.  He  finds  it  to  be  an  excellent  com¬ 
position  to  be  used  by  itself  or  upon  cloth.  In  re¬ 
newing  old  trees  it  is  sometimes  advisable  to  head 
them  back  a  year  or  two  before  grafting,  and  graft 
into  the  the  shoots  which  start. 

Insects. — Look  out  for  eggs,  and  destroy  as  di¬ 
rected  last  month.  A  strong  solution  of  soft  soap, 
as  before  recommended,  will  remove  scale  insects 
and  destroy  parasitic  vegetable  growths. 

Manure  m.ay  still  be  .applied  to  trees.  See  p.  120. 

Planting. — When  trees  are  received  from  the 
nursery,  do  not  hurry  the  planting  any  fastei 
than  it  can  be  done  properly.  Heel  them  in  by 
making  a  trench  deep  enough  to  receive  the  roots, 
and  set  the  trees  in  it  close  together,  .and  cover  the 
roots.  In  this  way  they  may  remain  a  long  time 
avithout  injury.  Presuming  that  the  land  is  drained, 
manured,  and  well  plowed,  the  holes  should  be 
opened  with  a  liberal  hand,  not  a  mere  post  hole 
into  which  the  roots  can  be  crowded,  but  one  large 
enough  to  allow  the  roots  to  be  spread  out  well. 
Make  a  bed  of  good  soil  at.  the  bottom  to  receive 
the  roots,  and  sufficiently  deep  to  bring  the  tree  tu 
the  proper  hight,  then  place  the  tree  with  the  roots 
spread  as  much  as  possible,  h.aving  previously 
pruned  them  if  they  have  been  nfhtilated.  Throu 
on  some  fine  soil  and  work  it  In  between  the 
roots  with  the  fingers,  and  gradually  fill  up  the 
hole,  pressing  the  earth  down  with  the  toot.  The 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


108 


tree  should  stand  a  little  above  the  general  surface, 
to  allow  for  settling.  Put  a  mulch  of  some  kind 
around  the  tree.  If  properly  headed  back,  as  ad¬ 
vised  last  month,  no  staking  will  be  needed. 

Teach  Trees. — These  need  a  well-drained  new  soil. 
Probe  for  borers,  and  put  on  a  paper  or  some  other 
protection.  Ashes  is  a  good  manure  to  apply 
•ver  the  roots  of  unhealthy  trees. 

Seeds. — Those  of  fruit  and  nursery  trees,  includ¬ 
ing  pits  and  nuts  of  all  kinds,  may  be  planted  as 
soon  as  the  ground  is  ready. 

Kitclien  Carden.— As  we  write  by  the 
open  window  the  air  feels  spring-like,  and  every¬ 
thing  betokens  an  early  season.  When  the  ground 
can  be  worked,  the  preparatory  operations  of  clear¬ 
ing  up,  plowing,  and  spading  may  be  pushed.  A 
good  gardener,  whether  he  works  on  the  large  or 
small  scale,  has  his  plans  all  laid  beforehand,  and 
has  made  up  his  mind  what  to  plant  and  where  to 
put  it.  Some  hints  ui)on  the  arrangement  of 
farmers’  gardens  will  be  found  on  page  118. 

Asparagus. — Remove  the  coarser  portion  of  the 
manure,  and  fork  in  the  rest.  See  last  month’s 
calendar,  and  an  article  on  page  117. 

Beans. — In  those  localities  where  there  is  no 
longer  apy  danger  of  frost,  the  early  sorts  may  be 
planted.  Start  Limas  on  pieces  of  sods  in  hot¬ 
beds.  Secure  a  stock  of  poles  for  running  kinds. 

Beets. — Sow  Early  Turnip  or  Bassano,  in  drills, 
12  or  15  inches  apart.  Soak  the  seed  in  warm 
water  for  24  hours,  pour  off  the  water,  and  keep 
covered  in  a  warm  place  until  the  sprouts  just 
show  themselves  ;  roll  the  seed  in  plaster  and  sow. 

Broccoli. — This  is  grown  by  those  who  think 
they  cannot  raise  cauliflower.  Treat  like  cabbage. 

Brussels  Sproxits. — A  variety  of  the  cabbage  with 
small  heads  on  the  stalks,  and  grown  like  cabbage. 

Cabbages. — The  plants  started  in  hot-beds  will 
need  an  occasional  sifting  of  ashes  to  keep  off  in¬ 
sects.  Thin  them,  and  set  the  surplus  plants  in  a 
cold  frame.  Plant  out  where  the  season  will  admit. 
Sow  seed  in  open  ground.  See  article  on  page  121, 
for  early  varieties.  If  we  could  have  but  one  cab¬ 
bage,  for  early  and  late,  it  would  be  Winingstadt. 

Carrot. — Early  Horn  is  the  best  early.  Soak  the 
seeds  as  directed  for  beets,  and  sow  in  15  inch 
drills,  in  a  mellow,  deep,  well-worked  soil. 

Cauliflower. — Attend  to  plants  in  hot-bed  as  di¬ 
rected  for  cabbage.  Sow  Early  Paris  in  open 
ground.  Early  Erfurt  is  said  to  be  very  early. 

Celery. — Plants  in  the  hot-bed  are  often  injured 
by  the  sun.  Shade  the  glass  during  the  heat  of  the 
day,  and  air.  It  may  still  be  sown  in  a  mild  hot-bed 
or  cold  frame.  Do  not  sow  in  open  ground  until  it  is 
well  warmed.  Early  White  Solid  is  best.  Celeriac, 
or  Turnip-rooted  Celery,  is  sown  in  the  same  way. 

Cold  Frames. — In  many  ijlaces  at  the  North  these 
will  still  be  found  useful.  See  page  83  (last  month) 
for  a  cheap  plan.  They  are  very  convenient  as 
places  in  which  to  set  plants  from  the  hot-beds  to 
gradually  harden  them  off.  Most  plants  are  bene- 
fitted  by  this  second  transplanting.  A  frame  which 
can  be  covered  with  boards  at  night  is  better  than 
nothing.  Give  the  plants  free  air  during  the  day 
whenever  the  weather  will  allow. 

Cress,  or  Teppergrass. — Sow  early  and  cover  lightly. 

Cucumbers. — Start  seeds  on  pieces  of  sods,  or  in 
small  pots,  as  recommended  on  page  121.  Early 
Russian  is  earliest ;  White  Spined,  largest  and  best. 

JEgg  Plants. — These  are  provokingly  slow  in  their 
early  growth,  and  need  a  good  deal  of  coaxing. 
When  large  enough  to  handle,  put  them  in  small 
pots,  sir  transplant  to  a  gentle  hot-bed.  Sow  seed 
in  hot-bed,  if  not  already  done. 

Garlic. — Break  up  the  bulb,  and  plant  the  sets  six 
inches  apart,  in  rows  a  foot  apart. 

Hot-beds. — In  the  colder  parts  of  the  country,  the 
present  month  is  quite  early  enough  to  start  the 
hot-bed.  See  calendar  for  previous  months,  and 
page  83  of  last  month.  Those  already  in  operation 
need  care.  Air  should  be  admitted  during  the  day, 
whenever  the  outside  temperature  will  admit,  by 
opening  the  sash  a  few  inches,  or  removing  it  alto¬ 
gether,  according  to  the  activity  of  the  heating 
materials,  and  the  warmth  of  the  sun.  If  neces¬ 


sary  to  keep  the  sash  on,  shade  in  the  middle  of 
the  day.  Weed,  thin  the  plants,  stir  the  soil  among 
them  as  needed,  and  use  water  slightly  warmed. 

Kohl  liabi. — This  is  a  variety  of  the  cabbage, 
with  a  turnip-shaped,  eatable  stem,  and  it  is  sown 
and  treated  afterward  precisely  like  cabbage. 

Leeks. — Sow  in  light,  rich  soil,  in  drills  15  inches 
apart  or  broadcast  in  a  bed,  for  transplanting. 

Manure  and  Compost. — It  is  presumed  that  the 
needs  of  the  garden  have  been  anticipated,  and  that 
a  heap  of  refuse  of  the  g.arden  last  year,  sods, 
ashes,  manure,  and  fertilizing  materials  generally, 
has  accumulated.  The  heap  should  be  looked  to, 
and  if  it  has  not  sufficiently  decomposed,  build  up 
a  new  heap,  using  the  materials  of  the  old  one, 
with  fresh  stable  manure,  to  start  fermentation. 
Brewers’  hops,  and  sprouts  from  the  malters,  are 
valuable  for  the  garden.  Night  soil  should  have 
been  prepared  before.  Even  now,  it  will  pay  to 
prepare  it  with  a  plenty  of  soil  as  heretofore 
directed.  Provide  a  tank  of  some  kind  for  liquid 
manure.  Clean  out  hen  roosts  .and  pigeon-house, 
barn-yard  and  pig  stye,  privy  and  sink  drain ; 
every  deposit  of  fertilizing  material  should  be  used. 

Lettuce. — Transplant  from  hot-bed,  and  sow  seed 
in  open  ground. 

Mustard. — Sow  early  for  salad  or  greens. 

Melons. — A  few  for  early  ma}'  be  sown  on  sods,  or 
in  pots,  as  directed  for  cucumbers. 

Onions. — Potato  Onions,  Sets,  and  Top  Onions 
are  to  be  planted  in  rows,  a  foot  apart,  putting 
only  one  bulb  in  a  place.  Sow  seed  as  early  as  the 
ground  can  be  prepared,  manuring  highly  with 
well  decomposed  manure,  ashes,  hen-manure,  or 
any  strong  fertilizer.  Burn  brush  over  the  bed  to 
destroy  weed  seeds,  and  sow  in  drills,  15  inches 
apart.  Onions  from  seed  do  not  usually  do  well 
much  South  of  the  latitude  of  New-York  City. 

Parsley. — The  seed  is  some  weeks  in  germinating. 
Soaking  for  12  hours  will  help  It  along. 

Pars7iips. — Sow  last  year’s  seed  as  early  as  may 
be,  in  deep,  rich  soil. 

Peas. — Sow  every  tw'O  weeks  for  a  succession, 
first  soaking  the  seed  in  tepid  water.  Daniel 
O’Rourke  is  one  of  the  standard  early  sorts,  and 
several  new  ones  have  appeared  this  year,  with 
great  claims.  The  Dwarfs  are  handy.  Provide 
brush  in  readiness  for  the  tall  growing  sorts. 

Peppers. — Sow  in  hot-bed  or  cold  frame. 

Potatoes. — The  early  sorts  should  be  put  in  the 
ground  as  soon  as  the  frost  is  -well  out  of  it. 

Potting  and  Pricking  Out. — It  is  a  good  practice 
to  transplant  tomatoes,  egg  plants,  cauliflowers, 
etc.,  from  the  hot-bed  to  small  pots.  These  are 
set  in  a  gentle  hot-bed,  and  when  their  roots  fill 
the  earth,  shift  them  to  larger-sized  pots,  and  set 
in  a  cold  frame.  By  the  time  they  can  be  put  out 
with  safety,  they  will  be  stocky  plants,  and  ready 
to  turn  out  without  disturbing  their  roots.  Similar 
advantages  may  be  obtained  by  preparing  a  cold 
frame  over  a  rich  spot,  and  setting,  or  “  pricking 
out”  the  plants  into  it,  at  4  inches  apart.  Both 
these  methods  give  better  results  than  transferring 
plants  directly  from  the  hot-bed  to  the  open  ground. 

Radishes. — Sow  in  any  spare  places  in  the  hot¬ 
beds,  and  in  light  quick  soil  in  the  open  ground. 
A  sandy  soil,  if  rich,  is  best.  Sow  at  intervals  of  a 
week  or  ten  days  for  succession. 

Rhubarb. — Treat  as  directed  last  month. 

Salsify. — Sow  in  the  same  manner  as  parsnips. 

Spinach. — Sow  the  Round-leaved.  Stir  the  soil 
among  the  plants  which  were  wintered  over. 

Sweet  Corn. — Seed  for  a  few  hills  of  Extra  Early 
may  be  placed  in  hot-beds  on  sods.  See  Cucumbers. 

Seeds. — Follow  the  hints  on  raising  given  on  p.  117. 

Swiss  Chard. — Sow  like  beets.  The  leaf  of  this 
variety  of  beet  furnishes  most  excellent  greens. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — When  small  quantities  are  grown, 
it  will  be  cheaper  to  buy  the  sets  of  those  who 
raise  them  for  sale.  The  plants  are  started  this 
month  in  hot-beds.  Cut  the  potatoes  through 
■  lengthwise,  and  lay  them,  cut  side  down,  on  the  bed, 
and  cover  them  with  rich  soil  to  the  depth  of  two 
inches,  when  the  shoots  have  pushed  above  this 
another  inch  is  added.  The  plants  are  to  have  the 
usual  treatment  of  those  in  hot-beds,  being  water¬ 
ed,  aired  and  covered  as  needed.  The  sprouts, 


when  welt  rooted,  are  sliiiped  off  and  the  younger 
ones  allowed  to  remain  until  the}’ are  tit  to  remove. 

Tomatoes.— Tot  or  prick  out  the  plants  when  they 
have  made  three  rough  leaves.  Sow  seed  undei 
glass,  or  in  pots  or  boxes  in  a  sunny  window  in  the 
house.  Give  the  young  plants  plenty  of  light  and  aii-. 

Tools. — Much  of  the  comfort  of  working  in  the 
garden  depends  upon  good  tools.  A  spading-fork 
is  better  than  a  spade  for  preparing  soil.  Thi.s  ami 
a  bayonet-hoe  are  indispensable.  If  the  garden  is  ol 
considerable  extent  it  will  pay  to  get  a  seed-drill  of 
some  kind.  We  have  found  the  Wethersfield  seed- 
sower  to  give  complete  satisfaction. 

Turnips.— ^ovi  the  Dutch  or  some  early  sorts  as 
soon  as  the  frost  is  out,  in  foot-drills.  The  Teltow 
is  a  very  small  early  sort  with  a  high  flavor,  and  is 
prized  by  Germans.  It  is  excellent  to  put  intosoujis. 


Flower  Garden  and  Fawn. 

Have  the  preparatory  woidc  done  up  as  soon  as 
possible.  For  new  lawns,  prepare  the  ground  and 
seed  early  according  to  hints  on  page  122.  Fork 
over  and  manure  the  borders  as  soon  as  the  ground 
will  do  to  work.  Many  hints  in  the  March  Calen¬ 
dar  are  timely  for  this  month. 

Annuals. — Do  not  sow  the  seed  of  tender  sorts 
in  the  open  border  until  the  soil  is  warm.  Start 
seed  in  hot-bed,  cold  frame  or  green-house.  The 
hardier  kinds,  such  as  Gilias,  Whitlavia,  and  the 
California  annuals  generally,  may  be  sown  early. 

Bulbs. — Uncover  those  which  were  protected  by 
manure.  Stake  the  tall-growing  Hyacinth  and 
Crown  Imperials  if  needed  to  prevent  falling  over. 

Climbers. — A  free  introduction  of  these  adds  much 
to  the  beauty  of  a  place,  and  they  can  frequently 
be  made  useful  in  shutting  out  undesirable 
views.  See  notes  given  in  last  month’s  paper. 

Edgings. — Old  Box  edging  needs  to  be  taken  up 
and  reset  every  few  years.  This  will  not  endnre 
very  severe  winters,  and  then  grass.  Dwarf  Flag, 
or  some  other  substitute  must  be  used. 

Fames  and  Pits. — The  plants  in  these  must  be 
gradually  prepared  for  removal  to  the  borders  by 
removing  the  sashes  and  giving  air  every  warm  day. 

Gravel  Beds. — Make  new  and  repair  old  ones. 
Coal  ashes  are  excellent  upon  gravel  that  will  not 
pack,  and  where  gravel  cannot  be  had,  coal  ashes 
make  a  good  walk  by  themselves.  Do  not  forget 
the  notice  of  coal  tar  and  sand  given  last  year. 

Lawns. — Root  out  all  large  weeds  and  give  a  top¬ 
dressing  of  compost,  bone  dust,  or  ashes.  Trimall 
the  margins  along  paths  or  beds  neatly.  If  there  are 
any  depressions  or  unsightly  elevations,  pare  off 
the  turf  and  fill  in  or  remove  earth  as  the  case  may 
be,  and  replace  the  sod.  Sprinkle  seed  on  thin 
places,  and  to  make  smooth  work,  roll  thoroughly. 

Perennials  a?id  Biennials. — Sow  seeds  in  an  outol 
sight  bed  for  a  stock  for  next  }’ear.  Take  np  old 
roots  and  divide ;  transplant  last  year’s  seedlings. 

.Roses.— Prune  the  strong  branches  of  perpetuals 
to  three  or  four  buds.  Thin  out  the  weaker 
branches.  Cut  old  superfluous  wood  from  climbers. 

Shi'ubs. — See  last  mouth’s  Calendar. 

Trees. — Plant  deciduous  sorts  upon  the  lawn  and 
along  the  roadside,  exercising  the  same  care  in 
setting  as  is  indicated  elsewhere  for  fruit  trees. 


Green  anci  IIot>IIoiises. —  The  firea 
in  the  hot-house  may  be  much  diminished,  and  in 
the  green  house  may  be  discontinued  altogether, 
unless  a  cold  snap  comes  on.  Ventilate  freely 
every  pleasant  day  to  harden  the  plants. 

Bedding  Plants. — A  good  stock  of  these  should  be 
coming  forward.  Pot  off  the  rooted  cuttings,  and 
when  they  become  established,  gradually  harden 
them  by  exposure  in  a  eold  fi-ame. 

Bulbs. — Turn  those  which  have  finished  bloom¬ 
ing  in  the  house  into  the  open  border. 

Camellias. — These  are  mostly  through  flowering. 
Prune  into  shape ;  they  bear  cutting  freely  ;  syringe 
and  keep  the  foliage  clean.  Cuttings  may  be  made. 

Fuchsias — Cuttings  of  the  new  growth  will  make 
good  plants  for  summer  blooming.  The  old  plants 
will  need  water  as  they  are  now  growing  rapidly. 

Insects. — Keep  them  in  cheek  by  free  use  of  the  sy« 
ringe  and  occasional  resort  to  tobacco  fumigatiuiu. 


104 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Apru., 


Potting. — Those  pUints  which  are  now  starting 
into  growth  will  need  repotting.  If  not  desired  to 
increase  the  size  of  the  pot,  put  the  ball  of  earth 
into  water  and  wash  the  roots  clean.  Carefullj’  re¬ 
pot  with  dry  earth,  which  is  to  he  well  worked 
among  the  roots.  Water  and  shade  for  a  tew  days. 

P)'wiijig. — Plead  back  those  plants  which  have 
made  a  feeble  growth,  and  thus  induce  the  starting 
of  a  new  top.  Thin  out  all  the  surplus  limbs. 

Seedi.—Thosa  green-house  varieties,  such  as 
Calceolarias,  Lobelias,  etc.,  with  very  small  seeds, 
should  scarcely  be  covered  or  they  will  fail. 


CoSil  drapery. — The  experience  of  Mr. 
Low  given  in  the  last  and  the  present  number,  will 
afford  useful  hints  to  beginners.  Every  one  growing 
grapes  under  glass  should  use  Chorlton’s  Grape 
Growers’  Guide  as  a  hand-book,  as  it  gives  the  re¬ 
sults  of  the  long  experience  of  one  of  our  most  suc¬ 
cessful  horticulturists.  The  vines  are  t  o  be  uncovered 
and  so  attached  to  the  wires  that  they  will  bend  like 
an  arch.  As  the  buds  begin  to  swell,  this  position  may 
be  altered  so  as  to  induce  them  to  break  evenly. 
The  tendency  is,  if  the  vine  be  put  in  place  at  once, 
for  the  upper  buds  to  start  first  and  get  the  ad¬ 
vantage  of  the  lower  ones.  Fork  over  the  border, 
and  syringe  the  interior  of  the  house  to  make  a 
moist  atmosphere.  If  the  vines  have  been  injured 
during  the  winter  they  w’ill  show  it  by  bleeding 
from  cracks  caused  by  excessive  cold.  In  this  ease 
it  is  best  to  cut  the  vine  back  to  one  of  the  lower 
shoots,  which  must  be  trained  to  replace  the  por¬ 
tion  removed.  If  the  vine  is  in  good  condition,  put  it 
up  to  the  wires  after  the  shoots  have  made  a 
growth  of  two  or  three  inches.  Keep  the  tempera¬ 
ture  at  an  average  of  65  o ,  until  toward  the  end  of 
the  month  when  it  may  be  allowed  to  reach  70  o ,  or 
even  to  SO'^.  Avoid  drafts,  and  syringe  the  wood¬ 
work  of  the  house  as  well  as  the  vines,  morning 
and  eveniug  when  the  temperature  increases. 

Fruit  dardcu.— The  notes  of  last  month 
will  in  most  places  be  as  applicable  now  as  then, 
and  the  notes  on  grape-planting  on  page  120,  leave 
but  little  to  be  said  in  this  department.  Dwarf 
trees  may  be  grafted  as  noticed  under  orchard. 
Planting  of  all  kinds  is  to  be  done.  Uncover  rasp¬ 
berries  and  fork  in  manure  around  their  roots.  ,Ke- 
move  the  mulching  from  strawberries,  exposing 
their  foliage  to  the  sun  and  air  but  keeping  the 
ground  covered.  Prepare  beds  for  planting  by 
manuring  well  and  working  deeply.  Beds  four  feet 
wide  with  three  rows  of  plants  eighteen  inches 
apart  each  way  are  best  for  gardens.  Plant  them 
when  practicable  as  soon  as  the  hard  frosts  are  over. 


Apiary  in  April. — This  month  the  bees 
are  usually  very  busy  gathering  pollen.  Sometimes 
severe  weather  temporarily  cuts  off  the  supply,  and 
then  there  is  danger  of  the  ever  busy  bees,  rob¬ 
bing.  Keep  a  watch  upon  them.  Spread  finely 
ground  unbolted  rye  flour  in  the  vicinity  of  the 
hives.  The  bees  will  use  it  iusteiid  of  pollen.  If 
bees  are  suspected  of  robbing,  kill  one  or  two  leav¬ 
ing  the  hive,  and  see  if  their  honey  sacks  are  full — 
if  BO  contract  the  entrance.  If  the  robbers  all  come 
from  one  hive,  it  may  be  ascertained  by  sprink¬ 
ling  flour  on  those  that  are  leaving,  and  then  watch¬ 
ing  the  other  hives  to  see  where  they  enter.  It  is 
sometimes  well  to  change  the  robbed  hive  to  the 
stand  of  the  robbers,  placing  the  latter  upon  the 
stand  of  the  former.  This  will  often  equalize  matters. 
Colonies  short  of  stores  ought  to  be  fed.  If  not  al¬ 
ready  done,  lift  and  clean  out  all  hives.  See  hints  for 
last  mouth.  Employ  spare  time  in  repairing  old 
hives,  cleaning  them  out,  and  making  them,  with 
new  ones  needed,  ready  for  swarming  time. 


Tlie  Fruit,  tSrower.s’  Mcctinjfs,  held  in 
the  Office  of  the  Agriculturist,  at  1}^  o’ciock.  P.  M.,  on 
Thursday.s,  are  increasing  in  interest,  aniltlie  attendance 
of  late  has  been  quite  large.  Persons  interested  in  frnit- 
gjrowing  come  together  ami  have  a  free  familiar  taik 
about  diflerent  fruits,  best  varieties,  modes  of  culture, 
etc.  A  new  Chairman  and  a  new  subject  for  talk,  are 
sfeosen  at  each  meeting,  for  the  next  week,  so  that  there 


is  always  a  freshness  and  familiarity  introduced.  Every¬ 
body  is  invited,  and  all  enjoy  equal  privileges  in  exhibit¬ 
ing  fruits,  and  in  soliciting  and  giving  information. 


Sti’a,wl»erry  Sliow  im  Jitne. — We  pro¬ 
pose  to  have  as  usual  our  “American  Strawberry 
Show”  at  a  favorable  time  in  June,  probably  on  Tlmrs- 
day,  the  15th,  or  the  22d,  accotsding  to  tlie  season.  These 
exlubitions  have  excited  very  much  interest  in  years 
past,  and  have  come  to  be  looked  upon  as  Ike  great 
Strawberry  Shows  of  the  country,  both  in  intrinsic  merit 
and  for  the  influence  exerted  bv  them. 

- - - - - 

Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 

New-York.  March  18. 

The  concensen  ana  convenient  taoies  oe.ow,  snow  tne 
transactions  in  tlie  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
month  past.  They  are  carefully  iirepared  specially  for  the 
American  Agriculturist,  from  official  and  other  reliable 
sources,  including  the  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 


1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  THE  NEW-VORK  MARKETS. 

Ukceipts.  Flour.  Wieat.  Coi'n.  Rue.  Barley.  Oats. 

22  days<//i,9m’t.h ,119.000  15„500  216,000  T.-iOO  2T..600  314.000 
24daysl(t.s-nn’th.l0?.000  2,100  185,000  6,250  27,000  255,000 

Sales,  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

todays  (Ais  month,  191,000  a52,000  195,000  27,000  69,000 
24  days  last  month,  221,000  434,000  196,000  31,000  37,000 

3.  Comparison  toith  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
KECEti-TS,  Flour.  tVheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 
22  days  1863..  ..119,000  13,300  216.000  7.3.000  27,500  314,000 

24  days  1864 . 201,000  46,300  1-17,000  6,100  91,000  222,000 

Sales.  .Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley 

22  days  1865 .  191,000  332,000  193,000  27,000  69,000 

24  days  1864  .  432,000  2,301,000  l.laljOOO  16,500  287,000 

3.  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  March  18. 


Flour, 

Wheat, 

Corn, 

Rye, 

Oats. 

ISG5. . . . 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

. . .  274,759 

128.000 

101,046 

141 

16,043 

1804.... 

...  427, 5vU 

3.319,1.80 

58,519 

405 

9,875 

1803.... 

....514,740 

3,156,800 

1,398,034 

59,106 

96,382 

“Sell  as  soon  as  you  can  get  a  fair  price,”  is  the  standing 
advice  of  this  Journal.  That  it  is  risky  to  “speculate  on 
a  rise,”  is  shown  by  the  present  condition  of  the  markets. 
Since  our  last,  gold  has  slid  down  from  204  to  157  (on 
Marcli,  17tii).  and  Produce  of  course  goes  down  with  it, 
tliough  not  quite  so  rapidly,  except  in  the  article  of  butter. 
A  subscriber  visited  the  city  to  see  about  selling  his 
butter.  He  asked  our  opinion,  and  we  advised  him  to  ac¬ 
cept  the  offer  of  57)rfc  per  ib.,  and  gave  our  reasons;  but 
he  “hoped  it  would  go  higher,”  and  field  on  ;  he  will  be 
lucky  if  he  gets  37>^c.  Prices  of  every  tiling  are  very 
unsettled,  and  we  can  only  give  the  rates  current  now. 
Ttiere  is  an  extensive  effort  now  making  among  hoiders 
of  merchandise  to  run  gold  uji  again,  so  as  to  keep  up 
the  prices  of  their  stocks  until  disposed  of,  and  these 
efforts  may  be  temporarily  successful;  but  if  the  military 
victories  now  looked  for  are  realized,  it  will  be  impos¬ 
sible  to  prevent  a  pretty  heavy  decline  in  gold.  Until  a 
decided  decline  is  establislied,  business  will  be  stagnant, 
for  few  will  dare  to  buy  anytliiiig  beyond  what  is  actually 
needed,  until  people  cease  to  expect  a  furtlier  fall  in  prices. 

Current  Wholesale  Prices. 


M.areh  18. 
$9  80  @10  30 


10  40 
10  30 
10  30 
9  85 
7  30 
7  23 
2  30 
1  95 


„  Feb.  18. 

Flour— Super  to  Extra  Statef  10  CO  @10  SO 

Siqier.  to  Extra  Southern _ 11  10  @14  50 

Extra  Western .  lO  03  @12  30 

Extra  Genesee .  lO  S3  @12  50 

Siiperline  Western.. . lO  10  @10  45 

IlYE  Flour  .  7  73  @  3  73 

Corn  Meat . 7  75  @  8  63 

Wheat— All  kinds  of  White..  2  43  @  2  6.3 

All  kinds  of  Ited .  2  10  @  2  45 

Corn— Yellow .  1  72  @  1  76 

Mixed .  1  88  @ 

Oats— Western .  :  10  @1  loy. 

State .  1  08  @  1  03 

liVE .  1  60  @  1  63 

Barley .  1  85  @  2  05 

Cotton— Middlings,  per  lb....  85  @  87 

Hops,  crop  of  1861,  per  lb .  23  @  ,30 

Feathers,  Live  Geese,  p.  lb..  73  @  76 

Seeb- Clover,  per  lb .  23  @  26 

Timothy,  tier  bushel .  6  00  @  6  75 

Flax,  per  bushel .  350  ©363 

Sugar- Brown,  per  lb .  16  @  22 

MoLASSES.New-Orleans,  p.gl.,  1  35  @  1  .30 

Coffee,  Itio,  per  lb  .  ...  39  @  44 

Tobacco- Kentncky,&c,p.lb..  10  @  43 

Seed  Leaf,  per  lb .  9  @  50 

Wool— Domestic  fleece,  p.  lb..  87X@  1  10 

Domestic,  pulled,  per  lb . .  63  @  1  04 

California,  unwashed .  63 

Tallow,  per  lb .  15^@  16)^ 

Oil  Cake,  per  tun .  70  00  @  78  00 

Fork— -Mess,  per  bbl... .  34  00  @36  73 

Prime,  per  bbl .  29  00  @30  00 

Beef- Plain  mess .  13  00  @22  00 

Laro,  in  bills.,  per  lb  . .  19)2®  24 

BtiTrER- Western,  per  lb .  32)4®  47)2 

State,  per  lb .  42)2®  57)2 

Cheese . . . .  14  @  24 

Beans—  per  bushel . .  3  00  ®  3  53 

Peas— Canada,  per  Bushel...  2  80  @  2  33 

Eogs- Fresh,  per  dozen .  45  @  47 

Poultry— Fowls,  per  lb .  22  @  25 

Turkeys,  per  lb. .  .  24  @  23 

Potatoes— Mercers,  p.  bbl....  3  73  @4  20 

Peach  Blow,  per  libl .  3  75  ®  4  00 

Affles— per  bbl .  6  50  @  7  00 

I^cw-Yorlc  I^ive  UlurUcetfs.— 

Beek  Cattle  have  come  in  much  more  freely  and  uni¬ 
formly  for  four  weeks  past  than  previously,  averaging 


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6,708  head  weekly.  The  snow  and  frost  troubles  on 
railroads  are  over,  ind  Western  animals  now  coma 
directly  tlirougli.  Prices  were  liiglier,  but  range  lliis  week 
at  24c.f325c.  per  pound,  estimated  dressed  weight  for 
extra  beeves;  21c.fa)23c.,  for  first  quality  ;  17c.®20c.,  for 
good  ;  and  down  to  lle.®12c.,  for  tlie  poorest.  See 
“Basket”  note  on  Beef  for  Soldiers. 

Iflilcii  Cows, — -Average  weekly  receipts,  204.  Prices 
have  clianged  but  little  since  last  month.  There  is  little 
call  for  cows,  owing  to  the  high  price  of  city  feed.  Rates 
range  from  $50,  fqr  poor,  to  $80®90,  for  good  milkers, 
and  $100,  and  upward,  for  extra. 

Veal  Calves  come  in  less  freelv  at  this  season,  the 
weekly  average  for  four  weeks  past  being  only  610.  Tlie 
best  bring  14c.ffil5c.  per  pound,  live  vveiglit;  common 
.10  poor,  13c.® lie.,  per  pound. 

Sliecp  arrive  in  quite  large  numbers,  the  weekly  aver¬ 
age  being  13,382.  The  demand  lias  been  quite  large,  ivt 
13Xc.®14)2C.,  per  pound,  live  weiglit,  for  extra,  and 
down  to  10c.®llc..  per  pound,  for  poor  animals. 

IjiveHogs  have  been  in  small  supply,  and  liigli,  but 
liave  arrived  more  fieely  at  lids  week's  iiiaiket.  though 
still  scarce.  They  find  ready  sale,  at  1332c. ®I432e..  per 
pound,  live  weight,  for  prime  corn- fed. 

- - 

Good  Preminms. 

The  following  good  premiums  are  still  open  to  all  wi.sh- 
ing  them.  AVe  desire  those  having  commenced  premium 
lists,  to  fill  them  out  and  receive  llic  articles  offered.  New 
clubs  may  also  be  commenced  at  this  season.  We  are 
con.stantly  increasing  the  value  of  the  paper.  The  prize 
artioles  on  Flax  and  Hops,  the  many  otlier  valuable  liints 
and  suggestions,  the  numerous  engravings,  etc.,  can  but 
commend  the  paper  to  every  one,  and  witli  a  copy  in 
hand  to  sliow,  a  large  number  of  our  readers  can.  in  a 
brief  time  each  collect  names  enough  to  secure  for  liim- 
self  one  of  Itie  desired  premiums. 

Table  of  Premiums  atid  Terms, 

For  t'^olume  24.  |3. 

Open  to  all— No  Competition.  £  ^ 

Names  of  Premium  Articles.  ” 

1—  Good  Books—*  See  terms  below . 

2—  Case  of  Drawing  Instruments.. .  ,$8  00 

3—  Best  Family  Clothes- Wringer .  $10  00 

4: — Doty’s  Washing  Machine . ?12  00 

5—  Sewing  Machine,  (Wlieelcr  &  AVilson)...$.33  00 

6—  Four  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $67  00 

7'— Five  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $112  00 

8—  Brown's  Baby  Tender . .$30  00 

9—  Brown's  Baby  Tender . $42  00 

10—  AVoodrutf’s  AlercuTial  Barometer.. (2) .  $10  00 

11—  AVoodrulTs Mercurial  Barometer.. (1). .$15  00 

1‘4— The  Aquarius . $12  Oil 

13—  Ladies' Rosewood  AVriting  Desk . $12  DO 

14 —  Gentleman’s  do  do  do  . $11-00 

l-'i-Any  back  Volume  Agriculturist,  j  S'?  $150 
IG— Any  Two  do  do  do  g  3  $3  00 

17—  Any  Three  do  do  do  i-  $1  30 

18—  Any  Four  do  do  do  I  g  =:  -$6  00 

ID— Any  Five  do  do  do  J  c,fci  $7  50 

20— Strawberry  Plants—*  See  Terms  below . 

charge  is  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  the 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Books,  also  Premiums 
2,  15,  16,  17,  18,  19  and  20,  are  delivered  to  any  pari 
of  the  United  States  and  Territories,  free  of  all  charges. 
The  other  articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  af¬ 
ter  leaving  the  manufactory  of  each,  Every  article 

offered  is  new  and  of  the  very  best  manufacture. 

Send  along  tlie  names  as  fast  as  obtained,  that  th? 
subscribers  may  begin  to  receive  their  papers  proinpily 
AVhen  any  list  is  completed,  notify  us  whicli  of  Hie  arti¬ 
cles  is  desired,  and  it  will  be  promptly  forwarded.  To  save 
mistakes  and  the  keeping  of  money  accounts,  send  witli 
eacti  name  or  list  of  names  tlie  exact  subscription  money. 

To  avoid  errors  and  save  immense  labor  in  looking  over 
our  books,  it  is  absolutely  essential  that  every  name  design¬ 
ed  for  a  premium  list  be  so  marked  when  sent  in.  (Such 
names  will  be  credited  to  tlie  sender  in  a  separate  book,  as 
fast  as  received — ready  for  instant  reference.) 

Old  and  new  subscribers  will  count  in  premium  lists, 
but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
such  that  the  premiums  are  in  part  offered.  Premium 
clubs  need  not  all  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  course 
only  one  premium  will  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber. 

l^s^For  full  description  of  tlie  other  premiums  see  pages 
2  and  3  of  Janutuy  Agriculturist.  We  have  room  for  only 

*  Pjrcmium  l.—Good  Books.— Any  person  sending 
25  or  more  suliscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  list 
on  page  105,  to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  eaeli  subscribei 
sentat  $l;or  to  the  amount  ofOO  centsfor  each  immeat  $I  30 
The  Books  will  be  sent  by  mail  or  express,  prepaid  by  us.- 
Thisisagood  opportunity  for  the  farmers  of  a  neighbor 
hood  to  unite  their  efforts  and  get  up  an  Agricultural  LI 
brary  for  general  use.  Many  Farmers’  Clubs  have  done  so. 

••  Pfcmtum  ao.— The  “  Agricyjlurtst  Strawberry 
Plants."- Any  person  sending '25  subscribers  at  club  rates  ($1 
each)  will  be  presented  with  one  dozen  of  these  plants. 
For  15  subscribers  at  regular  club  rates  ($1  20  eacli)  we  wilt 
send /iat/’ «  dozen  plants :  and  for  over, 27  names,  plants  at 
the  rate  of  a  dozen  for '25.  Tlie.se  will  be  sent  out  early  this 
spring,  free  of  expense  to  premluiu  lakers.  Imii-iioiideut  ol 


;-w 

■71 »  .77" 


2.^ 

Op 

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LH 

14 

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17 

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80 

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SO 

400 

140 

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ISC 

52 

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80 

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1665.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


105 


the  above,  aoy  new  eubscribei  may  have  a  plant,  If  5  cents 
be  sent  for  expense  of  packing  and  postage— bnt  only  on 
condition  that  the  application  comes  wilh  the  subscription, 
(to  save  looking  up  the  name) 


BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 


[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mall,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  Tiiese 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  Jlay  Ist.] 

Allen’s  (L.  F.)  Rural  Architecture . $  1  ,W 

Allen's  (K.  h.)  American  Farm  liook .  1  50 

Allen’s  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier .  30 

American  Itose  Cultnrist .  30 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants .  1  i5 

Art  of  Saw  Filing — (Holly) .  60 

Harrv’s  Fruit  Garden .  173 

Beecher’s  (Henry  Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming..  1  23 

Uemont’s  Poulterer’s  Companion .  2  00 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Fancier .  SO 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia .  1  .30 

Bridgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  .Manual .  73 

Bridgeman’s  Toung  Gardener’s  Assistant .  2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kitclien  Garden  Instructor .  73 

Bridgeman’s  Florist's  Guide .  75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (Englisli  and  German) .  50 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers . 150 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures .  1  50 

Browne's  Poultry  Yard .  123 

Bnist’s  Flower  garden  Directory .  1  50 

Bulat’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener .  1  00 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America .  4  50 

Carpenters  and  .Joiners’  Hand  Book  ..(Hally) .  60 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide. — .  75 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book .  60 

Colman’s  Agriculture . .  5  00 

Copeland's  Country  Life .  4  .30 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper  .  73 

Cotton  Planters’  Slanual  (Turner) .  .  1  50 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  .30 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor .  1  50 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  of  the  Horse — (colored) .  5  00 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual . 123 

Dog  and  Gnn  (Hooper’s) .  30 

Domestft  Poultry  .  30 

Downing  s  Cottage  Residences. . . .  2  30 

Downing’s  Pl  uits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America .  .  3  00 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry . 73 

Elliott’s  JVestern  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide .  1  30 

Employment  of  Women — By  Virginia  Penny .  1  .30 

Every  Lady  her  own  Flower  Gardener .  30 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener .  1  50 

Elax  Culture . (Ready  next  month) .  50 

French's  Farm  Drainage .  1  50 

Field's  ('f  liomas  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  23 

Fish  Culture . .  123 

Flint  (Charles  L.)  on  Grasses .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming .  .  2  00 

Fuller's  Grape  Cultnrist .  1  30 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Cultnrist . ’20 

(Joodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding .  I  00 

Gray’s  Manual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol .  4  00 

(jray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  23 

Guenon  on  Milch  Cows . 73 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery . .  1  25 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  &c .  5  00 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain .  3  50 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.. .  4  50 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers .  1  75 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  by  Cleveland .  1  .30 

Hop  Culture.. . (Ready  April  15th) .  40 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One .  1  73 

Jaques’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees .  60 

, Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep.  &c .  1  50 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  73 

'ohnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  '2.3 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

Langstroth  on  the  Honey  Bee .  2  00 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden .  2  00 

Lenehar’s  How  to  Build  Hot-houses .  1  50 

Liebig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry .  50 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture . . . .  1  23 

Liitsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses  . . .  1  50 

Manual  ol  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint.  1  00 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Doctor  .  3  6d 

MaVhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management .  3  30 

McNiahon’s  American  Gardener .  2  50 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot .  75 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  25 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood .  .  2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record .  1  50 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener _ (Pardee) .  1  50 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee .  1  25 

Onion  Culture  .  '20 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  60c . (paper)  SO 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . .  1  23 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves.,  . . .  1  50 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer .  60 

Quinby’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping .  1  75 

Rabbit  Fancier .  SO 

Randall’s  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  50 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden .  3  00 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses .  50 

Rural  Atl'airs _ (bound) _ 3  Vols — each .  1  50 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of  3  Vols.  morocco .  9  .30 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols.. cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book .  60 

Sliepherd’s  own  Boot  .  2  25 

Skillful  Housewife  .  75 

Smith’s  Landscape  Gardening .  1  50 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Children .  1  50 

Stewart’s  (John)  Stable  Book .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough .  1  50 

Tliaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture .  2  .30 

Thomas’  Fruit  Cultnrist  .  1  50 

■ntompson’s  Food  of  Animals .  1  00 

Tolnvoco  Culture . 25 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Toung  Farmer’s  Manual .  1  50 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Affairs .  30 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages . .  3  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture .  .  1  50 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  .  1  50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture .  1  00 

3V arson’s  American  Home  Garden .  2  00 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) .  1  50 

Wheat  Plant  (.John  Klippart’s) .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes .  1  50 

Tale  College  Agricultural  Lectures .  60 

Touatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse .  1  50 

Touatt  and  Martin  on  Cattle .  I  50 

Touatt  Oil  the  Hog .  1  00 

Touatt  on  Sheep .  1  00 

Toumans'  Household  Science . .  1  '75 

Toamans’ New  Chemistry . . .  1 '15 


“  Cheap  Lands  on  the  Atlantic  Coast.” 


There  are  consiilerable  tracts  of  uncultivated  lands  on 
the  Atlantic  Coast— in  southwestern  Massachusetts,  on 
Long  Island,  in  New  Jersey,  and  further  southward — 
which  have  never  been  brought  under  cultivation.  Dur¬ 
ing  a  few  years  past  these  have  been  extensively  ad¬ 
vertised,  sometimes  in  large  blocks,  and  at  others  cut  up 
into  small  plots  or  farms.  A  question  naturally  arises, 
why  have  tiiese  lands  lain  so  long  in  a  comparatively 
wild  state,  if  they  are  half  as  valuable  as  now  repre¬ 
sented  by  parties  interested  in  their  sale,  situated  as  they 
are  near  good  markets,  and  surrounded  with  enterprising 
cultivators.  This  is  a  very  reason-able  question,  and 
one  which  properly  places  them  in  the  position  of  a  sus¬ 
pected  man,  w  ho  is  required  to  prove  his  good  character 
before  being  admitted  to  confidence.  There  is  this  to  be 
said,  however,  that  portions  of  them  were  purchased 
cheaply  in  large  tracts,  many  years  ago,  by  foreign  pro¬ 
prietors  who  have  given  little  or  no  attention  to  them  in 
some  cases,  and  in  others  the  titles  have  been  a  long  time 
in  dispute,  and  iti.sonlyon  the  seltlement  of  their  owner¬ 
ship  that  they  can  be  offered  to  the  public.  But  in 
reality,  a  large  proportion  of  them  were  not  worth  culti¬ 
vating,  while  cheap  good  lands  could  be  obtained  by 
going  only  a  moiierate  di.«tance  westward,  and  while 
farm  produce  was  less  valuable  than  now  ;  and,  further,  a 
good  deal  of  this  kind  of  land  is  not  now,  and  never  will 
be,  worth  buying  for  cultiv;ition.  It  matters  not  at  how 
low  a  price  land  maybe  offered,  nor  iiow  favorably  it 
may  be  situated,  if  it  will  not  give  a  reasonable  return 
for  the  money,  labor,  manure,  and  seed  expended  on  it. 

A  prominent  defect  in  these  lands  is  their  light, 
.sandy,character,  not  oniy  upon  the  surface,  but  especially 
in  the  subsoil.  Tlie  whole  region  referred  to.  gooa  and 
had,  rests  upon  a  bed  ot  porous  sea-sand  of  unknown 
depth.  The  top  of  this  underlying  sand  bed  is  very 
uneven,  sometimes  coming  up  to  the  surface,  and  some¬ 
times  five,  ten,  twenty,  a  hiindreil,  a  thousand  feet,  or 
more,  below.  For  example,  we  have  found  it  in  orre  place 
by  digging  10  feet,  while  less  than  a  dozen  rods  dis¬ 
tant,  it  was  not  struck  nearer  than  18  feet  from  the  top. 
A  neighbor  on  one  side,  on  much  higher  ground,  found  it 
within  12  feet  of  the  top  ;  while  one  in  the  opposite  di¬ 
rection,  on  much  lower  ground,  foii-nd  it  27  feet 
down.  Its  surface  forms  fi  equent  basins,  sometimes  half 
a  mile  or  more  across,  and  sometimes  only  a  rod  o-r  two. 
At  different  points  on  Long  Island  and  New  Jersey  we 
have  found  the  sand-bed  running  generally  on  or  near  the 
top,  but  with  frequent  depressions  of  from  one  to  ten  or 
fifteen  feet.  Wherever  there  is  found,  over  this  sand 
iayer,  a  depth  of  five  or  more  feet  of  good,  firm  soil,  it  is 
worthy  of  cultivation.  Three  feet  may  answer  in  an 
ordinary  season,  but  not  in  a  very  dry  one.  The  trouble 
is,  that  this  sand-bed  carries  off  the  water  reaching  it. 
There  must  be  over  it  a  sufficient  depth  of  firm,  water¬ 
holding  soil  to  supply  moisture  to  plants  during  dry  sea¬ 
sons.  It  is  this  lack  of  moisture  that  proiluces  the  growth 
of  shoit,  stunted,  dwarf  forest  trees  and  bushes  on 
much  of  the  land  in  question,  even  where  there  is  a  layer 
of  good  soil  upon  the  surface.  In  examining  these  lands, 
the  only  safe  rule  is,  to  first  find  a  goad  surface  soil,  and 
then  dig  into  it  at  several  points,  or  examine  cellars, 
wells,  and  other  recent  excavations,  to  ascertain  the 
actual  condition  of  the  sub-stratum.  Right  in  the  midst 
of  a  wide  biirren  tract,  one  may  find  a  small  or  large  plot 
having  a  sufficient  depth  of  good  soil  to  make  it  valuable 
for  cultivation.  If  there  is  not  enough  of  this  good  land 
to  make  a  farm,  and  if  not  near  other  good  land,  so  as  to 
form  a  neighborhood,  it  will  be  of  little  value.  We  advise 
any  one  prospecting  or  contemplating  a  purchase  in  any 
part  of  the  regions  leferred  to,  to  make  thorough  ex¬ 
amination  of  the  subsoil  by  digging  into  it  four  or  five  feet 
at  different  points.  If  there  is  found  within  five  feet  of 
Use  surface  a  bed  of  gravel  or  sand,  one  may  be  cautious 
in  making  a  purchase.  It  may  be  well  for  such  persons  to 
consult  an  article  in  the  Agriculturist  for  May,  I860,  re¬ 
ferring  to  Long  Island  lands.  The  statements  there  ap¬ 
ply  to  a  good  deal  of  land  along  the  Mid-Atlantic  coast. 
- - - - - 

To  Advertisers,  and  to  Our  Readers. 


The  business  columns  of  this  journal  have  become  a 
very  important  department,  both  to  the  readers  and  to 
the  advertisers.  But  for  the  additional  income  from  this 
source,  it  would  be  utterly  impossible  to  furnish,  at  the 
present  subscription  rates,  so  large  and  expensive  a 
journal— one  so  carefully  prepared,  so  well  printed,  and 
so  fully  illustrated.  Further,  the  character  of  the  adver¬ 
tisements  makes  them  of  great  value  as  a  reliable  source 
of  information,  in  regard  to  supplies  of  seeds,  plants, 
trees,  imp’ements,  etc.,  etc.  As  our  rules  to  advertisers 
are  quite  strict,  we  like  to  have  our  readers  let  them 
know  that  their  adverusements  are  appreciated  by 
noting  where  they  were  seen,  when  writing  to  them. 


That  tills  medium  is  valued  by  business  men  is  abun¬ 
dantly  shown,  not  only  by  the  crowd  of  unsolicited  good 
business  cards,  especially  from  those  who  have  been  the 
longest  and  largest  advertisers,  but  also  by  numerous 
incidental  statements  that  reach  us.  Here  is  one  ex¬ 
ample ;  Mr.  R.  C.  Browning  writes,  March  14, _ “  The 

$600  paid  the  Agriculturist  in  1864,  brought  me  more  an¬ 
swers  to  the  advertisement  of  the  ‘  Universal  Clothes 
Wringer,'  than  were  received  from  the  $10,000  spent  in  ad¬ 
vertising  the  same  article  itt  other  papers," 

Messrs.  Bliss,  Parsons,  and  many  others,  speak  similar 
ly.  This  is  not  at  all  surprising  to  us,  as  from  the  best 
information  we  could  gather  at  the  close  of  the  year,  the 
circulation  of  the  Agriculturist  prob;ibly  exceeiled  the 
combined  circulation  of  all  other  agricultural  and  hor¬ 
ticultural  papers  in  this  country  ;  vsliile  from  the  censor¬ 
ship  exercised,  the  readers  are  the  more  ready  patrons  of 
those  who  are  admitted  to  our  business  department. 

And  here  let  us  call  the  attention  of  advertisers  to  our 
rules:  I.  We  want  no  patent  medicines,  and  nothing  of 
a  secret  character.  No  remedy,  for  man  or  beast,  or 
other  compound,  can  be  admitted,  until  we  know  and  ap¬ 
prove  the  ingredients. — II.  Doubtful  or  suspicious  enter¬ 
prises,  involving  much  hazard,  cannot  he  admitted.— III. 
Distant  parties,  or  those  unknown  to  the  Editors  per¬ 
sonally,  or  by  good  repute,  are  expected  to  furnish  satis¬ 
factory  references,  or  other  evidence  that  they  will 
honestly  and  promptly  perform  all  they  advertise  to  de. 
We  do  not  of  course  undertake  to  decide  that  anything 
and  every  thing  here  advertised  is  worth  the  price  asked 
for  it,  but  we  desire  to  have  sufficient  well-grounded  con¬ 
fidence  in  every  advertiser  admitted,  to  warrant  us  in 
sending  or  advising  our  friends  to  send  him  orders  or 
money,  if  we  wanted  his  articles  at  the  price  asked. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Hems,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere 


CE,TJBS  c.an  at  any  time  be  increased,  by  remitting, 
for  e.ach  addition,  the  price  paid  by  the  original  members, 
if  the  subscriptions  all  date  at  the  same  starting  point. 
The  back  numbers  will  of  course  be  sent  to  added  names. 

AaiotSacr  Exti-n  — Lest  any  ol 

our  jealous  contemporaries  should  not  be  so  prompt,  as 
they  were  last  year,  to  inform  the  unobserving  readers  of 
any  slight  change  in  size  of  this  journal,  we  would  direct 
their  attention  to  the  fact  that  this  number,  like  the  pre 
vi'Mis  one,  contains  36  pages  !  We  add  these  extra  pages 
in  order  to  give  the  valuable  prize  Essay  on  Flax,  with¬ 
out  curtailing  the  usual  variety.  If  any  other  journal 
furnishes  an  equal  amount  of  valuable,  original  matter, 
lor  the  Siime  money,  we  would  be  glad  to  see  it. 

Cro’%vde4l  Out. — Notwitlistanding  the  in¬ 
creased  size  of  this  number,  the  long  Flax  article  crowds 
out  a  large  number  of  “Basket”  articles,  already  in 
type,  which  we  will  try  to  make  loom  for  soon,  if  paper 
enough  can  be  found  in  the  market  to  print  them  on 

■^Vlien  ? — All  Snijscri ptioaxs  l>ate  a.t 

the  beginning  of  the  volume  (January),  unless  otherw'ise 
specially  ordered,  and  the  back  numbers  are  forwaided. 
These  are  printed  from  stereotype  plates  as  needed. 

Xlie  CjJea"j«aa.aa  Sedition  of  this  Joair- 

nal,  (Der  Amerikanische  Agriculturist,)  contains  all  the 
principal  articles  and  illustrations  of  the  English  edi 
tifMi,  and.  in  addition,  a  Special  Department  edited  by 
Hon.  Frederick  Muench,  of  Missouri,  a  well  known  and 
popular  writer  and  cultivator.  The  paper  ie  of  special 
value  to  all  Germans  who  cannot  read  the  English  Ian 
guage,  and  particularly  so  to  new  comers  from  Germany. 
It  is,  we  believe,  the  only  such  Agricultural  and  Horticul¬ 
tural  paper  published  in  this  country.  We  shall  be  glad 
to  have  our  readers  call  the  attention  of  Germans  to  the 
matter.  Many  take  this  edition  lor  their  German  gar¬ 
deners  and  farmers.  Price  $2  a  year;  four  copies  $7. 

FI-iAX  und  Iso-^v  to 

them  ! — We  have  in  the  printer’s  hands  two  most 
valuable  wo-rks  on  these  subjects,  giving  full  details  of 
every  part  of  the  tieatment,  from  pi  eparing  the  soil  to 
harvesting  and  marketing  the  crop,  being  the  practical 
directions  of  a  large  number  of  experienced  cultiv.ators 
residing  in  different  parts  of  the  country.  No  equal 
works  on  these  subjects  have  ever  been  issued.  They 
will  be  in  cheap  form,  on  large  octavo  pages,  with  many 
illustrative  engravings.  Price  of  Flax  Culture,  50  Cts. 
Hop  Culture,  40.  Cts.  Sent  post-paid,  also,  at  these  price*. 


106 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Aniji, 


Sheep  and  B''eiiees>. — A  “  Connecticut” 
corvespondent  who  approves  of  dog  laws  and  their  rigid 
enforcement,  writes  feeiingiy  in  regard  to  his  neighbors’ 
sheep,  which  range  ids  rye  fieids,  and  feed  down  ids  pas¬ 
tures,  bringing  good  returns  to  tiieir  owners,  but  none  to 
those  who  pasture  them.  This  we  agree  is  not  fair.  In 
fact  the  whole  theory  of  making  farmers  fence  their 
farms,  adjoining  proprietors  doing  half  the  fencing,  is  un¬ 
fair  and  wrong.  Every  man  should  fence  in  ids  own 
animals  or  control  them  in  some  w'ay.  It  is  unjust  to 
make  any  man  fence  out  his  neigiibor’s  cattle  on  tlie 
highway  or  anywiiere  eise.  The  laws  enforcing  it  are 
arbitrary,  not  naturally  right,  and  should  be  changed. 

WoItcs  and  <jJop!icrs. — J.  Molony,  Jr., 
Dubuque  Co.,  Iowa,  finds  tliat  he  does  not  succeed  in 
destroying  these  enemies  by  means  of  stryclinine.  Can 
any  one  give  him  a  better  remedy  ?  Will  the  Kansas 
contributor  send  on  the  drawing  of  his  goplier  trap  ? 

IVImiiire  for  a  ®arden.— “  O.  W.”  and 

several  otliers  ask  about  fertilizers  for  a  garden,  as  lliey 
object  to  stable  manure  on  account  of  the  weeds  it  brings 
in.  Spent  hops  and  the  barley  sprouts  from  breweries 
are  both  good  manures.  Where  circumstances  will  allow, 
home-made  poudrette  sliould  be  made.  Hen  manure 
will  be  useful  for  many  strong  growing  plants.  Bruce’s 
manure  has  a  good  reputation,  but  we  have  not  tried  it, 
and  are  very  cautious  about  recommending  any  fertilizer 
of  this  kind.  Cow  manure  can  be  used  in  the  liquid 
state,  without  danger  of  bringing  in  weeds,  and  ground 
bones  are  always  a  strong  and  valuable  manure. 

Willow  Frauds.— We  continue  to  hear  of 
frauds  practised  upon  farmers  by  selling  common  swamp 
Willows  for  the  White  (or  Gray).  Tlie  fact  tliat  when 
the  cuttings  grow  they  are  recognized  as  a  familiar  kind, 
is  not,  however,  proof  of  fraud,  for  tliis  willovv  is  com¬ 
mon  in  many  parts  of  the  country— not  wild,  but  grown 
in  neglected  and  swampy  pl.aces,  or  for  charcoal. 

Turpentine  from  Fitcli  Fisie. — John 
Haist.  The  Pitch  Pine  does  not  afford  a  resinous  juice 
in  sufficient  quantity  to  pay  to  tap  the  trees.  Some  lime 
•go  a  patent  was  taken  out  for  distilling  the  wood,  but 
we  have  not  heard  of  its  successful  application. 

Sorgliiim  in  Cliina,  —  Mr.  Governcur 
Emerson,  of  Pa.,  stated  in  the  Office  of  the  American 
Agriculturist  last  month  that  Rev.  Mr.  Williams,  a  .Mis 
sionary  in  China,  wrote  in  answer  to  some  inquiries  oi 
hii  own  :  1st,  that  Chinamen  do  not  make  sugar  from  the 
cane  and  do  not  even  make  syrup.  2d,  tliat  it  is  largely 
cultivated,  the  leaves  and  stalks  being  used  for  fodder. 
From  the  seeds  a  kind  of  spirituous  drink  is  made.  The 
•talks  are  also  used  for  thatching  buildings,  and  for  fuel. 
It  is  very  extensively  used  for  these  purposes,  and  in 
•oroe  sections  the  people  could  hardly  live  without  it. 

Reports  of  the  Commissioner  of 
Agriculture. — “  How  can  a  man  who  lias  no  ac¬ 
quaintance  in  Washington  procure  a  copy?  ”  asks  “  W.” 
—Answer:  Write  direct  to  the  Commissioner,  by  his 
title,  and  ask  for  one,  giving  your  own  address  in  full. 


The  Cork  ©ale.— J.  H.  Morris,  Orange  Co., 
N.  Y.  The  tree  is  a  native  of  Southern  Europe  and 
Northern  Africa,  and  it  is  doubtful  if  it  would  be  hardy 
In  the  Northern  Slates.  An  experiment  was  made  with 
It  in  California,  and  the  young  trees  did  well  for  some 
years,  but  we  have  not  heard  about  them  recently.  The 
bark  or  cork  is  taken  from  the  tree  once  in  7  or  8  years. 

Li’Estragon.— “  J.  L.”  wishes  to  know  the 
English  name  of  the  plant  the  French  call  L’Estragon. 
It  is  Tarragon,  a  perennial  herb,  which  has  aromatic 
leaves  used  for  flavoring  salads.  It  is  botanically  Arte¬ 
misia  Dracitncu/us,  and  own  brother  to  the  Wormwood 
and  Soutliern wood,  but  quite  different  from  either  in 
flavor.  Thorburn  advertises  the  seeds  with  a  note  that 
they  are  very  scarce.  The  plant  is  hardy  and  when 
once  obtained  may  be  multiplied  by  dividing  the  stools. 

“Parle  Row  ”  not  “Parle  Place.”— 

Many  persons  address  us  at  41  Park  Place,  and  the  Office 
1$  sometimes  looked  for  on  that  -street,  instead  of  on 
Park  Row.  Park  Row  runs  along  Ihe  southeastern  side 
of  City  Hall  Park,  from  Broadway  at  the  Astor  House 
and  Barnum’s  Museum,  to  the  Times  and  Tribune  offices, 
where  Chatham  street  begins  and  extends  on  to  Bowery 
at  Chatliam  square.  Park  Row  is  one  of  the  busiest  short 
Mreets  in  the  city.  The  Office  of  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist  is  at  No  41,  adjoining  the  Daily  Times  office  on 
Printing  House  .Square,  as  the  triangular  space  is  called 
at  the  junction  of  Park  Row,  Nassau,  Spruce  and  Chat¬ 
ham  streets.  It  is  an  interesting  fact  that  the  first  Office 
of  tka  jouraai  was  opened  23  years  ago  in  the  Basement 


of  the  buildings  occupying  the  very  .site  of  the  present 
magnificent  “  Times  Building,”  the 'first  floor  of  which  is 
now  the  Headquarters  of  our  journal.  The  Office  was 
subsequently  removed  to  189  Water  street,  where  it  re¬ 
mained  until  1860,  when  we  secured  a  ten  years’  lease  of 
the  present  convenient  location.  Our  business  office  ex¬ 
tends  eighty  feet  through  from  Park  Row  to  Nassau 
street,  opposite  the  American  Tract  Society  buildings. 
Our  folding,  stitching  and  mailing  rooms  occupy  the 
whole  basement— a  busy  bee-hive  the  last  half  of  every 
month.  The  composing  (type-setting)  is  done  in  upper 
rooms.  The  stereotyping  and  press-work  are  done  at 
tlie  largest  establishment  of  Ihe  kind  in  the  country,  we 
believe — tliat  of  Messrs.  John  .4.  Gray  &  Green,  corner 
of  Frankfort  and  Jacob  street,  a  fourth  of  a  mile  east¬ 
ward. - Park  Place  is  a  short  street  beginning  at  a 

Point  on  Broadway  across  the  Park,  opposite  oiir  of¬ 
fice,  and  running  westward  towards  the  Hudson  River. 

Small  4^1adioI»s  IBalbs.- Mr.  T.  P. 

Nelson,  Putnam  Co.,  Pa.  The  little  bulbs,  about  the 
size  of  wheat  grains,  will  grow  and  make  large  bulbs,  but 
according  to  Rand,  they  need  to  be  kept  out  of  the 
ground  a  year,  otherwise  they  are  not  apt  to  grow. 

Elecampane  as  a  Weed. — James  Mc¬ 
Clure,  Logan  Co.,  Oliio,  is  troubled  by  Elecampane  inliis 
pasture,  and  wishes  to  know  how  to  eradicate  it.  Does 
any  one  know  any  better  way  than  to  grub  it  up  ? 

Sligf  ]\ame  for  a  Seed. — J.  G.  F.,  Phila., 
has  a  package  of  seed  marked,  “Pied  d’  Alouette  vivace 
a  grand  fleur.”  “  Delphinium  datum  et  grandiflorum,” 
and  wishes  to  know  if  it  is  anything  good  to  eat.  All  of 
tills  French  and  Latin  stands  for  two  very  common  kinds 
of  Larkspur.  Both  are  perennials  for  ordinary  culture. 

Improving’  IBlacSc  Currants. — To  the 

writer's  taste  they  need  it. — Mrs.  C.  E.  Pond,  says  it  is 
done  by  pouring  boiling  water  upon  them,  leaving  until 
coni,  and  then  drying,  whicli  will  remove  the  rank  disa¬ 
greeable  taste. 

Xlie  IScne  Plant.  —  Daniel  Bender,  AVil- 
liarns  Co.,  Oliio,  has  received  from  tlie  U.  S.  Patent  Office 
some  bene  seed,  and  wislies  to  know  what  to  do  witli  it. 
The  seeds  furnisli  oil,  but  at  the  Nortli  the  season  is  not 
long  enough  to  perfect  them.  Tlie  only  use  made  of  tlie 
plant  among  us  is  a  medicinal  one.  The  fresh  leaves 
wlien  placed  in  cold  water,  render  it  very  thick  and  ropy, 
like  gum  water.  Two  or  three  leaves  will  convert  a 
tumblerful  of  water  into  a  mucilaginous  drink,  which  may 
be  used  instead  of  gum-arabic,  or  otlier  bland  drinks,  in 
dysentery  and  otlier  bowel  complaints.  Sow  vvhen  the 
ground  is  warm,  and  tliin  to  about  8  inches  apart. 

Coffee. — A  Boston  friend 
informs  us  that  the  article  called  “  Massachuselt’s  Cof¬ 
fee,”  alluded  toon  page  38,  (February,)  is  the  common 
field  bean,  universally  grown  in  Great  Britain,  and 
known  there  as  the  “  Egyptian”  or  “  horse”  bean.  Our 
informant  last  spring  purchased  a  pint  of  these  beans  for 
half  a  dollar— not  knowing  that  the  bargain  was  to  turn 
out  an  old  acquaintance  with  a  new  name.  Fifty  cents 
would  almost  purchase  a  bushel  of  such  ‘coffee’  in 
any  English  market. 

Everlasting  Flowers.—If  any  one  does 
not  know  how  pretty  these  are,  he  should  see  a  bouquet 
made  from  these  and  ornamental  grasses,  which  iMr. 
James  Vick  of  Rochester  has  sent  us,  and  wliich  now 
adorns  our  new  exhibition  tables.  The  plants  are  all 
hardy  annuals  and  easily  grown,  and  they  make  most 
beautiful  parlor  ornaments. 

A  Monstrous  Capacity  any  one  must 
have  wlio  can  swallow  the  statements  made  in  the  “Good 
Samaritan,”  professedly  published  by  Dr,  E.  Andrews, 
and  sent  out  by  the  tliousand  for  distribution  by  Post¬ 
masters  principally  at  the  West.  The  “  Doctor ’’  ■who 
“edits”  tlie  concern,  offers  to  do  almost  any  thing  for 
money — to  cure  all  disea.ses  ;  tell  how  to  make  soap  ; 
pander  to  licentiousness  ;  make  fraud  easy  by  enabling 
persons  to  remove  ink  and  signatures  from  every  kind  of 
paper  by  invisible  means  ;  to  make  ink  at  one  cent  a 
gallon  ;  to  do  all  sorts  of  impossible  things.  Humbug ! 

**  A  Cat  in  Oloves  Cnf  cites  no 

Mice,”  runs  the  old  adage,  but  that  was  before  India 
rubber  came  into  general  use.  The  “  Goodyear  Rubber 
Glove  Company”  manufacture  gloves,  of  which  some 
are  so  thin  and  elastic  that  they  would  be  no  impediment 
to  feline  hands.  We  have  received  some  samples,  two 
for  gentlemen  and  two  for  ladies,  designed  specially  for 
work  in  the  garden.  They  afford  admirable  protection 
against  wet  and  cold,  and  are  yet  so  pliable  that  one  can 
work  with  them  among  plants  almost  as  dclicatclv  at 


without  anything  upon  the  hands.  One  pair  of  each 
kind  is  lined  with  flannel,  for  cold  weather,  for  driving, 
etc.  These  gloves  will  prove  a  blessing  in  one  respect, 
at  least ;  they  will  induce  ladies  afraid  of  soiling  thalt 
hands  to  engage  more  frequently  in  the  liealthful  and  en¬ 
joyable  exercise  of  working  in  the  garden.  Tliey  are 
sold  at  a  re.asonable  rate,  lower  titan  “  kids”,  we  believe, 
and  can  be  obtained  in  the  usual  places  for  such  articles. 
We  advise  dealers  in  seeds,  implements,  pi, ants,  etc.,  to 
keep  a  supply,  and  induce  thdtr  customers  to  try  them. 

Iliimbiig.— Mart  &  Co.  offer  to  send  for  10 
cents  a  certificate  entitling  the  liolder  to  buy  a  fine  goid 
watch,  a  silk  dress,  a  piano-forte,  a  gent's  vest  chain, 
looket,  pin,  ring,  etc.,  etc.,  for  $1,  i/liis  ticket  draws  tlie 
name  of  such  an  article  from  a  lot  of  envelopes  contain¬ 
ing  them.  One  might  as  soon  expect  to  catch  a  pearl 
oyster  witli  a  pin-hook  in  70  feet  water  on  the  codfish 
banks,  as  to  get  hIs  money’s  wortli  in  such  a  venture. 

Beware  of  tlie  IBipsies’  Cliarms.— 

E.  F.  Mayo  wants  to  humbug  the  public  by  selling  them 
“  Secret  Charms.”  He  says  tliey  are  in  liquid  form,  pre¬ 
pared  from  certain  roots,  and  are  to  be  rubbed  on  the 
hands  and  forehead,  “  as  the  forehead  is  the  grand  cen¬ 
ter  of  thought  and  feeling  together  with  the  five  senses 
of  the  human  system” — including  tasting  and  he.<iring 
of  course  !  These  wonderful  liquids  “  make  you  as  it 
were  a  telegraphic  battery  to  .send  out  and  receive  com¬ 
munications  of  thought”  !  For  all  these  wonderful  pre¬ 
parations  he  wants  fifteen  dollars,  which  fools,  and  fools 
only,  will  perliaps  send  him,  and  buy  hard  experience. 

Howard  Association.— This  a  humbug¬ 
ging  concern.  One  of  the  letters  from  a  so-called  “doc¬ 
tor,”  attached  to  it,  has  been  sent.  Aside  from  the  stupidity 
of  professing  to  cure  diseases  by  letter,  he  recommends 
things  -which  have  no  existence  under  the  names  he  gives 
tliem.  He  repeats  the  old  story,  “  you  will  consult  your 
own  interest  by  obtaining  the  necessary  medicines  from 
the  .4ssocialion,  as  but  few  of  them  are  kept  in  the  common 
drug  stores,  and  I  find  it  impossible  to  administer  them 
successfully  unless  prepared  under  my  directions.”  Of 
course  not — and  he  will  send  the  stuff  by  mail  for  $20. 
Of  course  he  will.  J.  Skillin  Hougliton,  either  drop  your 
“  M.  D.”  or  stop  writing  such  nonsense  and  humbug. 

Earms  In  Iowa,  Rosetvood  Piano  Fortes, 
Gold  Watches,  and  any  quantity  of  Pistols,  Jewelry,  elc,, 
are  to  be  sold  at  $2  to  $5  each,  provided  you  get  one  of  D. 
M’Dowell’s  Business  Cards,  containing  the  right  numbers. 
Of  course  he  wants  the  money  in  advance.  His  circular 
comes  to  us  from  tlie  town  of  Big  Flats,  where,  being  a 
sharper,  he  had  sent  it  hoping  to  fleece  some  of  the  inhab¬ 
itants  ;  they  were  not  tlie  flats  lie  took  tliem  for  ;  tliey  read 
tlie  American  Agriculturist. 

Sorry  to  See  our  neighbors  of  the  Country 
Gentleman  and  Rural  New-Yorker  advertising  a  cheap 
jewelry  establishment,  where  you  pay  for  a  certificate 
enclosed  in  a  blank  envelope  and  then  buy  what  tlie 
certificate  calls  for.  Humbugs  of  this  sort  should  be  ex¬ 
posed,  not  encour.nged,  by  journals  professing  to  give  re¬ 
liable  reading  to  farmers.  They  have  repe.atedly  been 
shown  up  in  this  paper. 

Vinegar  in  Cement  Cisterns.— Geo. 
Nelly,  of  Burlington,  Iowa,  inquires  “  if  common  ce¬ 
ment  cisterns  will  keep  cider  for  vinegar  through  the 
winter  without  damage  to  the  cider  or  cistern  ?”  They 
will  not.  The  lime  in  the  cement  would  unite  with  tlie 
acid  of  the  cider  or  vinegar,  and  destroy  the  solidity  of 
the  cement,  and  also  spoil  the  liquid.  A  large  wooden 
tub,  about  four  feet  high,  and  five  or  six  feet  in  diameter, 
would  be  quite  as  cheap  and  much  better.  The  cider 
needs  exposure  to  the  air  to  change  into  good  vinegar, 
but  it  should  never  freeze. 

Keeping'  Iron  Tessels  from  Rnst.~ 

“  E,  E.  M.,”  writes  that  after  the  vessels  are  clean  and 
dried  while  still  warm,  she  pours  In  a  little  sweet  milk, 
rubs  it  in  well,  then  dries  again,  will)  care  not  to  scorch. 

Sweet  Cider. — A.  M.  Ward,  Hartford  Co., 
Conn.,  writes  :  “  After  ye.ars  of ‘fussing’  with  cider  to 
‘  make  it  good’  I  have  this  season  found  tlie  short  road  to 
perfection.  Took  cider  direct  from  the  press,  heated  it 
nearly  to  a  scald  over  tl>e  fire,  returned  it  to  a  barrel,  and 
have  since  made  daily  use  of  it  with  great  satisfaction.” 

How  to  Flant  Sorghnm. — J.  L.  The 

culture  of  this  may  be  precisely  the  same  as  Indian 
corn.  When  the  plants  first  appear,  Ihe  leaf  is  very 
small,  and  may  be  mistaken  for  that  of  a  coarse  grass. 

Osier  "Willows. — “  Bowring.”  These  arc 
never  raised  from  seed.  Most  nurseries  supply  cutitjig*. 


isas] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


107 


Woodward’s  Country  Hotises.— 

O-eo.  E.  &  F.  W.  Woodward,  Architects  of  tliis  city, 
have  just  issued  a  little  work  very  tastefully  gotten  up,  on 
aounlry  dwellings.  It  contains  thirty  or  more  original 
designs,  including  cottages,  gardens,  houses  and  villas, 
a  country  church,  fences,  gales,  etc.,  with  a  valuable 
chapter  on  balloon  frames,  fully  illustrated.  Price  $1.50. 

^©w  ]JI[iiga*iiie«— Messrs.  Ciias.  Scribner  & 

Co.,  announce  a  new  Magazine,  called  “i/o»r«  at  Home." 
It  is  to  be  distinctively  religious  in  character,  and,  as 
will  be  seen  by  the  advertisement,  many  prominent 
clergymen  and  laymen  are  engaged  as  contributors. 

Staftiiig  Sweet  Potatoes. — “  J.W.  C.,” 
Salem  Co.,  N.  J.,  sends  us  an  account  of  the  method  he 
has  followed  for  the  past  24  years.  He  commences  early 
or  late  in  April,  according  to  the  season.  The  hot-bed  is 
made  by  digging  a  trench  6  feet  wide,  2K  feet  deep,  and 
one  foot  in  length  for  each  bushel  of  potatoes.  The 
trench  is  filled  with  stable  litter,  well  trodden  down, 
and  watered  with  one  bucket  of  warm  water  to  every  2 
feet  of  bed.  A  layer  of  the  best  horse  manure  is  spread 
over  this,  to  the  depth  of  4  or  5  inches,  and  over  this,  4  or 
5  inches  of  light,  rich  soil.  The  potatoes  are  tlien  laid 
upon  the  soil,  nearly  touching  each  other,  and  are  covered 
with  the  same  kind  of  soil,  to  the  depth  of  IX  inch.  The 
whole  is  then  covered  with  hay,  to  tlie  depth  of  a  foot  on 
the  edge,  and  forming  a  heap  5  feet  high  in  the  middle  of 
the  bed.  The  heat  of  the  bed  is  tested  at  the  end  of  three 
days,  by  running  the  arm  tlirough  the  hay,  and  if  llie  soil 
Is  found  to  be  more  than  blood  warm,  the  hole  left  by  tlie 
arm  is  left  open,  and  if  the  heat  continues  to  increase,  the 
hay  is  turned  over  and  shaken  up.  If  the  heat  increases 
too  violently,  take  off  the  hay,  put  some  rails  across  the 
bed,  and  place  the  hay  over  them.  Be  careful  not  to  cool 
the  bed  too  much,  as  it  is  difficult  to  restore  the  heat  if 
once  lost.  In  10  or  15  days  the  bed  is  uncovered,  to  give 
the  plants  air  and  sun.  Leave  it  uncovered  for  two 
hours  daily,  at  first,  gradually  increasing  the  exposure 
until  past  danger  of  frost,  when  they  may  be  left  open 
night  and  day.  The  plants  will  be  ready  by  May  15. 

Mails  from  tSie  Pacific  Coast 
fireatly  Belayed.  —  On  March  Sth,  we  received  a 
very  large  batch  of  letters,  with  money  for  subscriptions 
and  books.  Many  of  these  date  back  as  far  as  Deo.  12. 
This  extraordinary  delay  explains  our  late  responses. 

A  Transparent  Steam  Eng-ime. — 
One  of  the  prettiest  and  most  instructive  things  we  have 
ever  seen  in  Barnum’s  American  Museum,  is  a  late  addi¬ 
tion  in  the  form  of  two  complete  steam-engines  made 
almost  wholly  of  glass,  one  a  high-pressure  and  the  other 
a  low-pressure  engine.  The  formation  of  the  steam 
in  the  glass  boilers,  its  course  in  the  pipes,  steam  chest, 
condensers,  etc.,  as  it  drives  the  wheels,  are  all  visible 
to  the  eye.  It  affords  a  capital  opportunity  for  grown  up 
people,  as  well  as  children,  to  study  and  understand  this 
most  interesting  source  of  power,  in  practical  operation. 

Doty’s  ■^Vasliing’  Maclilne. — The  pro¬ 
prietors  write  that  they  can  supply  orders  west  of  the 
longitude  of  Washington,  most  cheaply  from  their  iiead- 
quarters  at  Janesville,  Wis.  This  includes  part  of  the 
territory  assigned  to  Mr.  Lane,  of  New-York,  in  the 
notice  of  the  Washer  in  March  Agriculturist. 

Eaiid  Advertisements. — This  class  of 
advertisements  we  admit  to  our  columns  without  special 
care  or  examination,  where  no  money  is  asked  of  parties 
at  a  distance,  for  the  reason  that  it  is  not  supposed  that 
any  one  will  buy  a  farm  or  plot  of  land  without  a  per¬ 
sonal  examination  both  of  the  character  of  the  land  and 
the  title,  and  therefore  there  is  no  such  danger  of  parties 
tieing  imposed  upon  as  there  is  when  one  sends  money 
or  orders  for  seeds,  plants,  etc.,  to  unknown  parties. 

Crood  Boolis. — Any  one  desiring  |vood  books 
on  Agriculture,  Horticulture,  and  Domestic  Economy, 
can  receive  a  descriptive  trade  list  with  an  account  of 
some  fifty  different  books,  by  addressing  this  office. 

Catalogues,  &c,,  ISeceivcd. — Transac¬ 
tions  of  the  American  Pomological  Society,  1864.  This 
voli^me  gives  the  revised  list  of  fruits,  as  well  as  the  dis¬ 
cussions  which  took  place  at  the  meeting  held  last 
autumn,  and  is  a  valuable  work  of  reference  to  the  fruit¬ 
grower . The  Transactions  of  the  Massachusetts  Hor¬ 

ticultural  Society  gives,  besides  the  reports  of  the 
thirty-fifth  year  of  this  pioneer  institution,  an  account  of 
the  laying  of  the  corner  stone  of  its  new  Horticultural 
Hall.  —  Brill  &  Kumerle,  a  new  firm  at  Newark,  N.  J., 
tend  their  catalogue  of  vegetable  and  flower  seeds,  and 
Francis  Brill,  of  the  same  firm,  issues  a  catalogue  of 

mall  fruits,  containing  all  the  novelties. ...  F.  K.  PhcB- 

Is,  Bloomington  (Ill.)  Nursery,  is  out  with  a  catalogue 


which,  besides  the  usual  price  lists,  contains  much  lively 
reading.  Our  friend  Pheenix  is  always  very  much  in 
earnest. ... -The  Greenvale  Nurseries  of  W.  D.  Stronger, 
Oswego,  N.  Y.,  offer  a  general  assortment  of  nursery 
stock..... The  seed  list  of  James  J.  H.  Gregory,  Marble¬ 
head,  Mass.,  contains  the  usual  assortment,  besides  a 
number  of  Mr.  G.’s  specialties,  some  of  wliicli  we  have 

already  noticed . McElwain  Bros.,  Springfield,  Mass., 

send  an  illustrated  vegetable  and  flower  seed  catalogue. 
....C.  B.  Scliotte  &  Co.,  Humboldt  Gardens,  Armstrong 
Co.,  Pa.,  offer  a  select  list  of  fruit  and  ornamental  trees. 

_ Yilmorin,  Andrieux  &  Co.,  the  world-renowned 

seedsmen  of  Paris,  send  their  catalogue  of  novelties, 
most  of  which  are  announced  by  our  own  dealers. .... 
J.  Knox,  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  has  issued  his  small  fruit  cata¬ 
logue.  Grapes  and  strawberries  are  specialties  with 
Mr  Knox,  and  his  list  includes  all  the  desirable  sorts. 

Downing’s  Eaaiclscape  <war<l«‘ising’. 
— This  most  valuable  and  beautiful  work  has  been  out  of 
print  for  some  time,  oviing  to  the  burning  of  many  of  the 
engravings,  at  the  great  Frankfort  street  fire.  The  bonk 
has  been  so  scarce,  and  so  liighly  prized,  that  $10  to  $12 
p.er  copy  has  been  readily  paid  for  all  that  could  be  ob¬ 
tained.  The  illustrations  are  nearly  re-engraved,  and  a 
new  edition  is  now  in  press.  It  will  probably  be  ready 
the  last  of  April,  The  price  is  reduced  to  $6  50. 

Beef  for  onr  Soldiers  ! — At  the 
present  time,  a  large  proportion  of  the  fresh  beef  for  our 
principal  armies,  in  Virginia  and  North  Carolina,  can  be 
best  forwarded  from  this  City,  tlie  cattle  being  sent  on 
steamers  (transports).  A  government  contract,  under 
heavy  bonds,  has  been  taken  by  Henry  Westheimer,  to 
furnish  all  the  beef  cattle  required  at  this  point,  from 
M.arch  loth  to  June  15th.  The  cattle  are  to  be  strictly 
first  qualUtj.  rmCi  without  the  slightest  imperfection  or 
blemish  ;  every  lot  is  to  average  1300  lbs.,  live  weisht,  and 
no  single  animal  to  be  taken  weighing  under  1250  lbs. 
on  the  scales,  nor  under  three  years  old.  All  the  animals 
are  to  be  examined  by  the  government  inspector,  and  they 
are  to  be  delivered  at  such  points  in  or  near  New  York 
City,  and  in  such  quantities,  as  may  be  ordered  by  the 
Commissary  of  supplies,  from  time  to  time.  We  notify 
tlie  contractor  and  the  inspector  that  there  are  several 
friends  of  the  soldiers  who  intend  to  watch  over  the 
matter,  and  see  that  the  inspection  be  rigid.  Tlie  price 
will  pay  for  good  cattle.  The  contract  price  of  $13.49 
per  100  lbs.  live  weight  is  equivalent  to  24c/®25c  per  lb. 
for  tlie  dressed  or  net  weight,  as  bullocks  of  the  required 
quality  sliould  dress  full  56  lbs.,  to  100  lbs.  live  weight.  . 

Brcmiiims  for  every  one, — We  invite 
special  attention  to  the  premiums  on  page  104,  which 
have  been  omitted,  but  are  restored  again  this  month. 
The  articles  offered  are  all  very  good,  and  worthy 
of  no  little  effort  to  secure  them.  See  particular  des¬ 
cription  of  each  article,  on  page  2  of  January  number, 
which  we  cannot  spare  room  to  repeat.  Partially  com¬ 
pleted  premium  clubs  can  be  filled  up,  and  new  clubs 
started  now.  The  spring  work  in  field  and  garden,  now 
beginning,  will  lead  many  to  feel  the  want  of  a  journal 
like  this.  There  are  many  thousands  who  would  get 
some  hints  or  suggestions  from  these  pages,  that  would 
in  the  end  be  worth  far  more  than  the  cost  of  the  paper. 
Aside  from  the  premiums,  we  solicit  a  good  word  from 
each  of  our  readers.  An  invitation  to  neighbors  or 
friends,  will  often  lead  them  to  subscribe— to  their  own 
benefit  as  well  as  that  of  the  Publisher. 

Sell  tlie  ISags  Now.— The  papermakers 
don’t  fall  a  peg  on  the  price  of  paper  from  last  December 
rates,  but  rather  go  up  as  gold  goes  down.  They  say 
rags  are  scarcer  and  higher  than  ever.  Better  take  them 
at  their  word,  and  sell  every  wliite  rag  that  can  be 
gleaned  up.  These  prices  can’t  hold  long. 

Tlie  A^riciiItJirist  Strawberry 
Plants  to  go  out  tliis  montli.— With  the  present 
prospect  of  good  weather,  we  hope  to  begin  mailing  the 
Strawberry  Plants  soon  after  April  3d.  They  wil!  be  first 
sent  to  the  more  southern  points,  and  on  northward  as  the 
.season  allows— probably  to  the  most  northern  regions  the 
last  of  April.  Those  to  receive  them,  will  do  well  to  ar¬ 
range  to  get  them  soon  after  their  arrival.  Open  the 
parcel,  and  if  ready,  set  them  out  at  once.  If  not  ready, 
set  the  roots  into  moist  earth.  Have  a  plot  of  ground  for 
each  plant,  lightened  a  little,  if  needed,  by  black  earth 
from  the  woods,  or  rotten  muck,  and  a  little  well-rotted 
manure,  well  mixed  in.  Set  the  plants  nearly  even  with 
the  surface,  but  not  so  that  water  will  wash  in  soil  upon 
the  crown  when  they  settle.  Only  have  the  ground  damp  ; 
too  much  water  is  injurious  to  any  plant.  Spread  out  the 
roots.  This  spring,  we  shall  remove  all  the  foliage.  The 
experience  of  last  fall  was  that  the  attempt  to  send  out 
the  leaves  on,  '’urnished  loo  large  evaporating  surface. 
The  best  planters  always  remove  nearly  or  quite  all  the 


leaves  in  transplanting  strawberries.  The  main  point  is 
to  have  a  supply  of  fibrous  roots,  and  an  uninjured  crown. 
Plants  look  small  witli  the  leaves  off,  but  we  .shall  follow 
our  bast  judgment,  even  if  they  do  not  show  so  well. — 
Many  who  thought  their  plants  dead  last  fall,  simply  be¬ 
cause  the  leaves  did  not  always  come  fresh,  will  find  th« 
plants  alive  this  spring. — We  only  send  the  plants  wher* 
they  were  specifically  asked  for  at  the  time  of  subscrUr- 
ing,  and  the  5  cents  extra  enclosed  for  postage  and  e«- 
pense  of  putting  up.  On  counting  the  applicants  so  far, 
we  find  we  sliall  have  some  more  plants  for  the  first  nevf 
subscribers  applying  for  them.— Aside  from  the  reserva 
tion  made  for  subscribers,  as  previously  announced,  our 
entire  stock  was  sold  to  Mr.  Knox.  (See  his  advertiso- 
ment.)  We  have  no  plants  or  seeds  of  any  kind  to  sell. 

Sti-awS»erry  Blants. — For 
terms  see  last  item  under  “  Good  Premiums,”  page  104. 

Tobacco  —  Scetl  IScds.  —  “  J.  F.”  The 
seed  beds  are  generally  prepared  in  the  warmest,  sunnif 
est  spots,  where  the  ground  is  ricli,  dry,  and  free  from 
weeds.  Its  soil  is  manured  and  well  worked,  by  spade  or 
plow,  then  brush  with  straw  and  other  ligltt  stuff,  is 
burned  upon  it,  which  not  only  gives  a  dressing  of  ashes, 
but  destroys  weed  seeds,  and  warms  the  soil.  Tlie  bed  is 
made  smooth  by  raking  and  rolling,  the  seed  sowed, 
lightly  brushed  in,  and  the  surface  patted  with  a  boarilf 
or  rolled  with  a  hand-roller.  The  .seed  should  be  tested 
beforehand,  and  it  may  be  kept  mixed  with  moist  soil,  in 
a  warm  place,  a  few  days,  till  it  nearly  sprouts.  When 
sowed,  tobacco  seed  ought  to  be  moistened  at  least,  and 
rolled  in  plaster,  so  that  the  sower  may  see  where  it 
falls.  A  table.spoonful  of  seed  to  the  square  rod,  and  a 
rod  of  seed  bed  to  the  acre,  will  furnish  plenty  of  plant*. 

Toljacc*#.— Ilow  to  €Srow  It.— The  beat 
possible  information  on  all  departments,  from  selecting 
seed,  through  the  harvesting,  curing  and  marketing  the 
crop  is  given  in  the  Book  containing  the  practical  direc¬ 
tions  of  fourteen  experienced  growers.  Price  25  Cts. 


ESSAYS  €»W  FEAX  CUI.TIJRE, 


Award  of  Pi-isKcs. 

Tliirty-five  essays  were  presented,  in  response  to  the 
offer  of  prizes  made  in  November  by  the  Publisher  of  the- 
American  Agriculturist.  The  writers  of  the  essays,  as 
well  as  our  readers,  are  equally  fortunate  in  tliat  We  were 
able  lo  avail  ourselves  of  the  services  of  a  Committee  of 
extensive  practical  experience  and  scientific  knowledge. 
The  report  of  the  chairman  (Dr.  Warder,  of  Ohio),  is  a- 
valuable  document,  but  too  extended  for  publication 
here.  We  are  happy  to  have  been  able,  following  a  sug¬ 
gestion  of  Dr.  Warder,  to  secure  the  services  of  the 
writer  of  the  first  prize  essay,  to  assist  in  preparing  the 
other  essays  for  publication  in  book  form,  and  we  have 
also  now  made  arrangements  with  him  to  become  one  of 
the  editorial  corps  of  the  Agriculturist. 

Repobt.— “  The  Committee  award  as  follows  :  For  the- 
best  essay,  No.  33,  by  S.  E.  Todd,  Auburn,  N.  Y.  (now 
of  New-York  City),  $50.  For  the  second  best,  No.  24,  by 
James  Cairns,  Ballydurane,  Cionokitty,  County  Cork. 
Ireland,  $40.  For  next  five  which  were  considered  better 
than  any  of  tlie  remainder,  $10  each  ;  these  are  respec¬ 
tively,  No.  17,  by  G.  S.  Kuester,  Newcastle,  Lawrence 
Co..  Pa. ;  No.  5,  by  Wm.  H.  White,  So.  Windsor,  Hart¬ 
ford  Co.,  Conn.;  No.  18,  by  Hugh  McKee,  Norwich, 
Canada  West;  No.  19,  by  James  Barker,  Hoosick  Falls, 
Rensselaer  Co.,  N.  Y. ;  No.  20,  by  John  E.  Stewart, 
Redding  Ridge,  Fairfield  Co.,  Conn. 

“All  which  is  respectfully  submitted  by  your  Com¬ 
mittee.”  [Signed,]  John  A.  Wardeb,  Cftairmati, 

Cincinnati,  Feb.  12th,  1865. 


First  Brize  Essay. 

The  subject  of  flax  culture  may  be  properly  considered 
under  three  parts  :  1st,  The  preparation  of  the  soil. 
2nd,  The  seed,  the  growth  and  culture  of  the  plant  and 
harvesting.  3d,  The  rotting  and  dressing  for  market. 
The  first  tw'O  parts  belong  particularly  to  the  tiller  of  tha 
soil  ;  -while  the  third  is  more  properly  a  process  of  manu¬ 
facture,  and  though  very  distinct  from  each  other,  they 
are  frequently  performed  by  the  farmer.  Flax  is  grown 
sometimes  for  the  seed  only,  and  sometimes  for  both 
the  seed  and  lint.  The  seed  yields  a  drying  oil  of  the 
best  quality  for  painters’  purposes,  the  residue  being  oil 
cake,  used  for  feeding  stock  :  and  the  straw  yields  lint  of 
two  qualities,  called  flax  and  tow.  Flax  is  the  long, 
straight  fibre,  and  tow  consists  of  the  short  and  tangled 
fibre,  which  separates  in  dressing  the  long  lint.  Some¬ 
times,  however,  tlie  entire  fibre  is  prepared  as  tow.  Th« 
lint  that  is  separated  from  the  long  fibre,  when  the  flas 
is  dressed,  is  called  in  market,  “  fine  tow  ” ;  it  is  man 


108 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Apkil, 


ulactuied  intc^ow-cloth,  or  into  small  ropes  and  cords. 
The  flax  is  made  into  linen  thread,  and  linen  cloth. 
“  Coarse  tow  ”  consists  of  the  entire  fibre  of  flax,  the 
Bhives  having  been  simply  removed.  This  is  pressed 
into  bales,  weighing  300  to  400  pounds  each,  and  is 
sold  in  most  of  our  large  cities,  at  2  to  fi  or  more  cents 
per  pound,  according  to  the  locality  and  the  demand,  for 
stuffing  the  cushions  and  backs  of  carriages,  and  house¬ 
hold  furniture,  for  making  ropes,  coarse  cloth,  etc. 
There  is  always  a  good  demand  for  flax  fibre,  wiiether  it 
is  in  the  long-line  commonly  called  “  flax,”  or  fine  tow,  or 
coarse  fow'.  Consequently,  a  farmer  can  always  dis¬ 
pose  of  his  crop  of  lint  with  a  little  labor,  .at  low  price  ; 
or  he  can  bestow  mucli  labor  in  preparing  it  for  market, 
and  receive  a  proportionately  larger  compensation.  This 
is  one  of  the  excellences  of  the  flax  crop  ;  and  for  this 
reason  there  is  no  other  crop  that  may  be  raised  in  our 
grain-growing  regions — w  here  a  three,  four,  or  five-years 
rotation  of  crops  has  been  adopted— with  more  profit  to 
the  farmer,  and  more  advantage  to  the  soil.  If  a  farmer 
desires  to  raise  it  for  seed  only  and  get  quick  returns,  it 
can  be  done  witli  a  limited  amount  of  labor  ;  but  if  he  de¬ 
sires  to  have  work  for  his  laborers  at  tliose  seasons  of  the 
vear  w  hen  nothing  can  be  done  in  the  field,  lie  w  ill  al¬ 
ways  find  it  profitable,  if  he  is  a  good  manager,  to  grow 
a  crop  of  flax  every  year,  and  prepare  the  fibre  for  market. 

Characteristics  of  the  Plant. — Fiax  has  one  very 
important  cliaracteristic,  an  understanding  of  whicli  is 
of  great  practical  advantage.  When  a  flax  stem  is 
growing  alone,  it  will  throw  out  numerous  oranches, 
many  of  which  will  be  as  large  as  the  main  stem  ;  as 
shown  by  the  accompanying  engraving,  fig.  1  ;  and 
each  of  these  will  produce  other  brandies,  all  of  which 
will  yield  seed.  On  the  contrary,  when  tlie  seed  is  sown 
thickly,  each  seed  will  produce  only  asti  aiglit  stem,  with¬ 
out  any  branches,  witli  but  little  seed.  The  practical 
point  is,  to  decide  before  tlie  seed  is  sowed,  whetlier  the 
purpose  be  to  raise  flax  for  the  seed  chiefly,  with  coarse 
tow  in  connection,  or  principally  for  the  fibre.  See  para¬ 
graph  upon  thick  and  thin  seeding  in  another  place  below'. 

Soils. — Flax  will  flourish  wed  on  any  soil  that  wiil 
yield  good  crops  of  cereal  grain,  and  some  soils  that  do 
not  produce  abundant  crops  of  certain  kinds  of  grain, 
will  produce  an  excellent  crop  of  flax.  Flax  likes  a 
deep,  fertile,  and  mellow  loam,  and  on  such  a  soil  a 
heavy  crop  of  both  seed  and  lint  may  be  produced,  pro¬ 
vided  there  be  not  an  excess  of  water  in  the  soil.  These 
river  bottoms,  and  uplands  where  the  predominating 
characteristic  of  the  soil  is  black  muck,  if  fertile 
enough  to  produce  heavy  grass,  will  yield  a  good 
crop  of  flax  fibre,  and  a  small  crop  of  seed.  But,  if  tlie 
soil  is  in  a  good  stale  of  fertility  for  yielding  potatoes, 
oats,  Indian  corn,  or  rye,  the  yield  of  botli  seed  and  fibre 
will  be  large.  Flax  will  not  flourish  on  wet  soils  of  any 
kind,  and  the  crop  will  be  light  on  heavy,  slippery  clay 
soils,  unless  thoroughly  underdrained,  well  pulverized, 
and  enriched  with  fertilizing  materials.  A  good  crop 
of  flax  can  not  be  produced  on  a  poor,  wet,  and  half- 
pulverized  soil,  any  more  tlian  a  good  crop  of  wheat. 

Preparing  the  Soil. — There  is  no  kind  of  grain, — 
wheat  not  excepted, — for  which  the  soil  needs  as  much 
preparation  as  is  required  for  a  good  crop  of  flax,  and 
there  is  no  crop  that  farmers  are  accustomed  to  raise, 
that  will  pay  better  for  fertilizing  and  pulverizing  the 
soil.  Not  only  will  the  seed  be  better,  but  the  fibre  also, 
when  the  flax  is  grown  on  soil  that  is  very  fertile,  and  has 
been  kept  clean  by  thorough  cultivation.^  Weeds  and 
grass  wiil  not  only  be  a  nuisance  w  hen  the  fibre  comes  to 
be  rotted  and  dressed,  but  they  will  seriously  injure  its 
growth.  And  if  the  dressed  lint,  the  tow  or  the  flax,  have 
grass,  straw  or  weeds  in  it,  the  value  will  be  greatly  reduc¬ 
ed.  My  own  practice  in  getting  the  soil  ready  for  a  crop  of 
flax  has  been,  to  commence  its  preparation  at  least  three 
years  before,  with  especial  reference  to  flax.  I  have  al¬ 
ways  raised  it  in  rotation,  with  Indian  corn,  barley,  oats, 
winter  or  spring  wheat,  and  red  clover.  A  clover  sod, 
well  manured,  would  be  plowed  for  Indian  corn.  If  the 
soil  were  a  lieavy,  slippery  clay,  or  a  graveily,  calcareous 
clay,  it  was  plowed  in  the  fall.  If  there  were  any  wet 
places  in  the  field,  they  at  least  would  always  be  under¬ 
drained.  The  corn  was  kept  clean,  and  no  weeds  allow¬ 
ed  to  go  to  seed.  The  next  year,  a  crop  of  barley  was 
raised,  and  as  soon  as  the  barley  w.ts  harvested,  the 
soil  was  well  harrowed  with  a  heavy  harrow,  or  culti¬ 
vated  with  a  wheel  cultivator,  for  the  purpose  of  covering 
the  seeds  of  all  noxious  weeds,  so  that  they  would  vege¬ 
tate  and  die  before  winter.  In  October,  or  November, 
the  soil  was  well  plowed  ;  and  if  deep,  we  used  a 
double  team,  and  a  Micliigan  double  plow.  The  dead 
furrows  were  cleaned  out,  so  as  to  carry  off  the  sur¬ 
face  water.  If  tlie  soil  were  light  and  porous,  and 
not  disposed  to  bake  in  the  summer,  we  would  never 
plow  it  in  autumn.  Where  black  muck  predominates  in 
the  soil,  or  wliore  it  is  a  very  porous,  sandy,  or  gravely 
’oam,  or  a  liglit  alluvial  deposit,  it  should  not  be  plowed 
in  late  autumn,  but  lailier  in  August,  or  September. 
Then,  if  any  weeds  come  up  before  winter,  use  the  har 


row,  or  the  cultivator  to  de.stroy  them. — In  the  following 
spring,  as  soon  as  the  ground  has  settled  and  become 
sufficiently  dry,  we  plow  it,  cutting  narrow  furrow  slices, 
as  deep  as  it  has  previously  been  plowed  ;  and  always 
take  especial  pains  not  to  have  any  balks  or  holes  between 


the  furrows.  After  the  grounu  is  plowed,  we  harrow  it 
twice,  and  tlien  roll  previous  to  sowing  the  seed. 

The  great  object  in  harrowing  and  rolling  before  sow 
ing  the  seed,  is,  to  have  the  surface  of  the  ground  as 
smootli  and  uniform  as  it  can  be  made,  so  that  the  flax 
may  get  an  even  start,  ana  grow  more  unitorraiy,  ano  tne 
surface  of  the  ground  be  better  to  work  on  when  the 
flax  is  pu/led.  If  the  seed  is  sowed  on  an  uneven  sur¬ 
face,  where  there  are  lumps,  sods,  and  little  furrows  and 
holes,  much  of  it  will  be  buried  too  deep,  and  conse¬ 
quently,  the  growth  of  the  straw  (and  fibre)  will  not  be 
uniform,  and  the  seed  will  not  mature  alike.  In  case 
there  are  no  lumps,  the  roller  should  not  be  used,  but 
the  soil  should  be  gone  over  with  a  harrow  having  nu¬ 
merous  small  teeth.  Where  the  soil  has  been  cuitivatea 
as  it  should  be,  while  a  crop  of  Indian  corn,  or  barley, 
or  potatoes  was  growing,  the  surface  of  it  will  be  as  free 
from  lumps  as  a  neatly  prepared  carrot  bed.  On  such 
soils,  fl.ax  w'ill  often  grow  from  three  to  four  feet  long ; 
the  seed  will  be  of  a  superior  quality,  and  the  lint  will  be 
heavy  and  of  great  length.  Where  the  soil  is  well  adapt¬ 
ed  to  raising  potatoes  and  other  roots,  if  it  is  well  ma¬ 
nured  about  two  years  beforehand,  and  the  weeds  thor¬ 
oughly  eradicated,  the  proprietor  may  be  sure  of  a  heavy 
crop  of  botli  lint  and  seed.  Thoroughly  rotted  manure 
is  quite  as  essential  for  flax,  as  it  is  for  wheat ;  but.  coarse 
unfermented  manure  produces  a  rank  growth  of  straw, 
not  much  seed,  and  the  flax  is  very  liable  to  rust. 


When  there  are  many  stones  in  the  soil,  the  larger  one* 
should  be  removed,  and  the  smaller  ones  may  be  pressed 
down  with  a  heavy  roller,  before  the  seed  is  sowed, 
for  the  purpose  of  making  a  smooth  surface  to  work  on 
at  harvest  time.  In  some  portions  of  the  country,  a  black 
muck  soil  rests  directly  on  a  stratum  of  rich  clayey  loam. 
Now,  by  using  a  double  team  and  a  Michigan  sod  plow, 
or  any  other  plow  turning  a  deep  furrow  well,  and 
by  turning  up  two  or  three  inches  in  depth  of  this  fertile 
subsoil  in  late  autumn  or  winter,  so  tliat  the  rains  and 
frosts  will  thoroughly  pulverize  it  before  the  next  springt 
then  plowing  and  harrowing  as  just  directed,  a  very 
heavy  crop  of  lint,  and  a  fair  crop  of  seed  may  be  raised. 
But  it  must  be  kept  in  mind,  that  a  large  crop  of  seed  can 
not  be  raised  on  an  inferior  soil,  without  good  manure  of 
some  kind.  Clean  culture,  a  deep  soil  thoroughly  pul 
verized  and  in  a  good  state  of  fertility,  will  always  pro* 
duce  a  good  crop  of  both  lint  and  seed,  if  the  season  is 
at  all  favorable  for  other  crops.  Flax  will  do  as  well  as 
oats,  barley,  or  wheat,  when  sowed  on  sod  ground. 

Eradicating  Small  Weeds  Before  Seeding. — After 
the  soil  has  been  well  prepared  for  tlie  seed,  let  it  remain 
about  ten  days,  when  nearly  all  the  seeds  of  noxious 
weeds  will  have  vegetated.  Now,  on  the  day  that  the 
seed  is  to  be  sowed,  give  it  a  thorough  harrowing,  for  the 
purpose  of  destroying  the  little  weeds  that  hare  appeared 
in  the  “seed-leaf.”  In  case  lumps  of  earth,  or  small 
stones  are  harrowed  up,  the  surface  must  be  rolled.  And 
while  the  surface  of  tlie  soil  is  fresh,  let  the  seed  be  put 
in  as  speedily  as  possible,  because  flax  seed,  or  any 
other  seed  will  germinate  much  sooner  thus,  than  if  put 
into  soil  that  has  not  been  disturbed  for  a  number  of  days 

Proper  Selection  of  Seed. — Most  farmers  appear  to 
think  tliat  flax  seed  is  all  of  one  quality,  so  far  as  its  pro¬ 
ductiveness  is  concerned.  There  is  just  as  much  differ¬ 
ence  in  the  productive  quality  of  flax  seed  as  there  is  in 
Indian  corn  ;  and  a  large  proportion  of  that  which  is  sold 
in  market  is  no  more  fit  for  seed,  and  no  more  produc¬ 
tive  than  Indian  corn  would  be,  were  all  the  half-ripe 
ears  shelled  with  the  good  ones  for  seed.  No  good  farm 
er  would  ever  think  of  planting  such  corn,  because,  al¬ 
though  it  might  vegetate,  it  would  not,  and  could  not 
produce  a  good  yield  of  grain.  Half-matured  flax  seed 
cannot  produce  a  good  crop  of  either  lint  or  seed. 

But  unless  farmers  raise  their  own  seed  they  will  be 
obliged  to  take  up  with  such  as  they  are  able  to  find  in 
the  market,  wiiether  good  or  poor.  My  own  practice  has 
been  to  obtain  Hie  plumpest  and  brightest  seed  to  be 
found.  Then  run  it  through  the  fanning  mill  twice  :  and 
blow  out  all  the  light  seed,  by  a  heavy  blast.  Then 
at  harvest  time,  select  those  stooks  of  flax  that  grew 
on  the  best  ground  and  that  ripened  first,  and  keep  them 
separate  from  the  rest.  Thresh  off  only  about  /la/y  of 
the  seed,  and  save  it  for  sowing  the  next  season.  Con¬ 
tinue  this  practice  for  a  few  years,  and  even  on  the  same 
soil,  with  tlie  same  cultivation,  both  the  qu.ality  and 
quantity  of  the  seed  wiil  be  greatly  improved ;  and  the 
length  ann  excellence  of  the  fibre  very  much  increased. 
The  seed  first  matured — which  will  be  the  plumpest,  fair¬ 
est  and  most  productive — will  be  shelled  out  first.  Every 
intelligent  farmer  will  readily  perceive  the  importance  of 
growing  his  own  flax  seed  when  it  can  be  done  with  so 
little  trouble  ana  expense. 

Thick  and  Thin  feeding. — Flax  may  be  sowed  too 
thick  as  well  as  too  thin.  The  correct  quantity  de¬ 
pends  upon  the  object  for  which  the  flax  is  raised. 
If  we  desire  to  obtain  the  largest  yield  of  /ini,  we  must 
sow  the  seed  very  evenly,  .and  as  thinly  on  the  ground  as 
it  will  grow  and  not  throw  out  branches,  as  sliown  in  fig. 
1,  but  having  the  branchless  habit  shown  in  fig.  2.  If  the 
object  is  simply  to  raise  seed  and  coarse  tow,  it  may  be 
sowed  very  thin— say  from  half  a  bushel  to  one  bushel 
per  acre.  The  old  rule  is,  half  a  bushel  per  acre,  but 
in  my  experience  half  a  bushel  is  not  enough,  be 
cause,  when  it  stands  so  thin  on  the  ground,  new  branch¬ 
es,  and  new  bolls  will  continue  to  grow,  and  when  much 
of  the  seed  is  ripe,  many  bolls  will  be  only  half-ripe. 
And  besides  this,  the  fibre  of  such  large  branched  flax 
will  not  make  as  good  lint  as  the  longer  less  branched 
stalks.  It  may  be  worked  into  coarse  tow ;  but  it  is 
not  so  good  for  dressed  lint  as  the  straight  stalks.  There 
IS  aiso  a  difference  in  the  lint  of  the  single  stalks.  If  the 
flax  seed  be  sowed  at  the  rate  of  three  or  four  bushels 
per  acre,  the  stalks  will  be  very  small,  and  the  fibre  fine 
and  thin,  and  very  soft.  But  if  only  one  bushel  and-a-halt 
be  sowed  per  acre— if  it  be  sowed  as  evenly  as  it  should 
be-all  the  stems  will  be  of  a  very  uniform  quality  j  the 
bolls  will  grow  for  the  most  part  near  the  very  top  end 
of  the  stalks  :  and  consequently  the  seed  will  ripen  more 
evenly,  and  the  crop  will  be  better  in  every  respect  than  If 
thicker  or  thinner.  Tlie  habit  of  flax  is  such  that  it  will 
accommodate  itself  to  the  fertility  of  the  soil  better -than 
most  other  plants,  when  the  quantity  of  seed  per  acre  is 
too  small.  If  the  soil  is  in  a  very  good  state  of  fertility, 
and  one  bushel  of  seed  be  sowed  evenly  on  an  acre,  al 
most  every  stem  of  flax  will  throw  out  only  two  or  three 
brandies  close  to  the  ground.  When  flax  forms  branck 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST, 


109 


Cs  we  have  the  assurance  that 
been  towed  a  litlle  thicker  in 


the  seed  ouglit  to  liave 
those  places.  But  wlien 
no  brandies  are  formed 
near  the  roots,  it  is  a  sign 
that  there  was  as  much 
seed  sowed  per  acre  as 
could  grow  profitably ; 
and  if  the  stalks  appear 
small  and  slender,  we 
need  no  better  evidence 
tliat  tile  seed  was  sow¬ 
ed  too  thickly.  My  owm 
practice  has  been  to  sow 
about  one  bushel  and  a 
half  of  seed  per  acre, 
whether  the  chief  object 
was  seed  or  lint,  I  have 
always  thought  that  this 
amount  of  seed  would 
produce  a  better  yield  of 
seed  and  lint  than  any 
other  quantity  per  acre. 

Testing  the  Seed. — 
Many  dealers  in  flax  seed 
will  contend  that,  as  flax 
seed  contains  so  much  oil, 
it  will  not  lose  its  vitality 
in  many  years.  But  my 
long  experience  justifies 
me  in  stating  that  it  will 
sometimes  lose  its  vital¬ 
ity  in  only  a  few  years. 
Several  years  ago,  I  pro¬ 
cured  a  two  bushel  sack 
of  Russian  flax  seed,  at  a 
large  price,  and  not  a 
single  seed  germinated, 
although  the  soil  was  well 
prepared  before  it  was 
sowed,  and  tlie  seed  was 
put  in  when  the  surface 
was  fresh  and  mellow, 
and  the  seed  possessed  all 
the  external  appearances 
of  the  best.  It  was  of  a 
lively,  brownish  color, 
very  plump,  and  heavy, 
but  its  vitality  was  gone. 
To  test  seed,  select  a  few 
grains  and  sprinkle  them 
between  two  thin  pieces 
of  sod  laid  earth  sides  to¬ 
gether,  and  put  them  on 
a  shelf  in  the  kitchen 
where  they  must  be  kept 
warm  and  not  allowed 
to  dry.  In  a  few  days 
every  seed  that  has  not 
lost  its  vitality,  will  ger¬ 
minate.  Then  by  count¬ 
ing  them,  we  readily  as¬ 
certain  about  what  pro- 


Fig.  2.-THICK  SEEDING.  portion  of  them  is  good. 
When  to  Sow.— Almost  all  writers  recommend  put¬ 


ting  in  the  seed  as  early  in  the  season  as  practicable. 
But  my  experience  and  extensive  observation  warrant 
me  in  saying  tliat  flax  seed  is  almost  always  sowed  too 
early.  A  certain  season  of  the  year  that  would  be  con¬ 
sidered  early  in  one  locality,  might  be  very  late,  one  or 
two  hundred  miles  distant  in  either  direction.  Therefore, 
to  fix  a  definite  period  for  every  locality,  I  would  say : 
Sow  when  the  soil  has  settled,  and  is  warmed  by  the  influ¬ 
ence  of  the  sun.  and  weeds  and  grass  have  begun  to 
spring  up,  and  the  leaves  of  trees  begin  to  unfold. 
If  sowed  too  early  in  the  season,  much  of  it  is  liable  to 
be  stunted  ;  late  frosts  are  very  apt  to  injure  it,  more 
ar  less  ;  and  noxious  weeds  are  sure  to  get  the  start  of 
it,  unless  extra  pains  have  been  taken  to  destroy  them. 
The  soil  should  not  be  at  all  adhesive  or  sticky  when 
the  seed  is  sown.  The  very  best  time,  with  reference 
to  the  condition  of  the  soil,  is,  soon  after  a  shower,  when 
the  small  lumps  will  crumble  at  a  very  slight  touch,  and 
the  entire  surface  is  friable  and  “lively.”  Then  it  will 
germinate  in  a  few  days,  get  the  start  of  weeds,  and  keep 
the  ascendency  through  the  season.  By  this  means  a  vast 
amount  of  weeding  will  be  saved,  the  fibre  will  be  more 
abundant,  the  seed  better,  and  the  yield  greater.^ 

How  TO  Sow  Flax— Every  practical  man  knows  that 
flax  seed  is  very  slippery  grain  to  sow  by  hand.  Conse¬ 
quently,  unless  a  man  take  great  care,  the  seed  will  be 
sowed  very  unevenly.  As  it  is  so  very  slippery,  it  is  not 
practicable  to  sow  it  with  a  grain  drill,  nor  witli  any  kind 
of  broad-cast  seed  sower,  that  we  have  ever  met  with. 
The  details  of  my  own  practice,  w  hich  I  have  never  be¬ 
fore  put  on  paper,  are  as  follows :  After  the  soil  has  been 
harrowed  as  directed  above,  mark  out  the  ground  two 


ways,  in  lands  about  18  feet  w  ide  This  breadth  is  wide 
enough  to  sow  at  one  round,  or  at  two  casts.  Let  the 
seed  be  soaked  in  warm  water,  about  two  or  three  hours, 
and  then  rolled  in  plaster  or  gypsum.  Then  count  the 
lands  both  ways,  and  make  calculation  to  sow  a  given 
quantity  of  seed  on  each  land,  each  way.  Take  as  much 
seed  as  you  can  hold  conveniently  with  one  thumb  and 
three  fingers.  If  you  are  liable  to  take  too  much  seed, 
hold  a  small  round  stone  in  the  hand  while  sowing. 
The  object  of  rolling  the  seed  in  gypsum  is,  to  render 
it  less  slippery.  I  could  always  scatter  the  seed  much 
more  evenly  by  sowing  a  few  rods  wide  ail  one  way,  in¬ 
stead  of  going  directly  back  and  forth.  This  I  did,  by 
going  around  a  land  about  five  or  six  rods  in  width,  as  in 
plowing.  The  best  way  to  mark  out  flax  ground  is,  to 
drag  a  log  chain  behind  you  across  tlie  field,  from  one 
stake  to  another.  It  will  pay  well  to  carry  out  all  these 
practical  details  in  full.  As  flax  seed  is  much  more  diffi¬ 
cult  Ito  sow  than  most  otlier  kinds  of  seed,  it  is  very  im¬ 
portant  that  none  but  an  experienced  sower,  one  able 
to  move  with  a  very  steady  and  uniform  gait,  and  to  cast 
every  handful  with  tlie  accuracy  of  machinery,  should  be 
employed  to  sow  flax  seed.  If  the  grounil  be  marked  out, 
the  sower  can  always  see  where  his  seed  falls.  But. 
when  he  sows  by  means  of  stakes,  a  deviation  of  only 
a  few  inches,  to  the  right  or  left,  will  drop  the  seed  too 
tliin  in  some  places,  and  too  thick  in  others.  Tlie  sower 
sliould  always  set  a  small  stake  where  he  commences 
to  sow,  at  both  ends  of  the  plot,  so  that  he  wall  be  sure 
that  no  strip  will  anywhere  be  sow  ed  too  thick  or  too  thin. 

How  TO  Cover  the  Seed. —  I  never  would  allow  a 
team  of  any  kind  to  pass  over  the  field,  after  the  seed  has 
been  sowed,  for  the  following  reasons:  If  the  soil  is  at 
all  light  and  porous,  a  team  would,  with  their  feet,  bury 
much  of  the  seed  so  deeply  that  it  would  be  several  days 
behind,  and  would  never  be  able  to  attain  an  equal 
growth  with  the  rest  of  tlie  field.  Another  reason  is. 
when  the  seed  is  buried  so  deep,  tlie  flax  v\ill  pull  much 
harder.  Flax  seed  requires  but  little  eartli  to  cover  it  deep 
enough  to  vegetate  in  a  short  time,  and  by  depositing  it 
all  on  a  smooth  surface,  where  several  seeds  will  not  be 
gathered  into  depressions  in  the  soil,  it  will  all  vegetate 
alike,  will  stand  evenly  on  the  ground,  and  pull  easily, 
may  be  cut  with  scythes,  cradles,  or  tiorse  mowers,  close 
to  the  ground,  and  the  straw  aird  lint  will  be  of  a  uni¬ 
form  length,  and  quality.  My  practice  has  been  to 
“  bush  in”  the  seed  by  drawing  a  brnsh-liarrow  by  liand. 
With  a  suitable  brush,  one  man  would  bush  in  four  or 
five  acres  per  day,  and  do  the  work  well.  Such  a  har¬ 
row  covers  a  strip  about  five  feet  wide,  and  an  active 


Fig.  3. — BRUSH-HARROW. 


man  or  a  strong  boy  would  cover  the  seed  nearly  as 
fast  as  he  could  do  it  with  a  team,  and  much  better. 

To  Make  a  Hand  Brush-Harrow.-  Procure  a  piece 
of  hard-wood  scantling,  or  a  round  stick,  about  five  feet 
long,  and  three  by  four  inches  square,  for  tlie  brush  head, 
put  two  tliills  into  it,  and  bore  tw'o  sets  of  three-quarter 
inch  lioles  through  it,  for  receiving  the  but-ends  of  brush 
which  are  fastened  in  the  holes  with  nails.  Brush  about 
two  feet  long  should  be  selected,  and  after  the  holes  are 
filled  with  them,  another  course  may  be  nailed  on  each 
side  of  the  brush-head,  if  necessary.  This  will  be  found 
a  most  complete  implement  for  covering  flax  seed. 
The  eflectiveness  of  such  a  brush-harrow  may  be  in¬ 
creased  at  pleasure,  by  lashing  billets  of  wood  to  tlie  up¬ 
per  side  of  it.  The  length  of  the  head  may  be  gre<ater  or 
less,  according  to  the  evenness,  or  the  unevenness  of  the 
surface  of  the  soil.  If  it  should  be  somewhat  uneven,  it 
would  be  better  to  make  two  such  liarrows,  four  feet  long, 
for  two  men  to  use,  than  one  harrow,  eight  feet  long,  to 
be  drawn  by  two  men,  because  a  short  one  would  adapt 
itself  to  the  ineuualities  of  the  surface  of  the  ground, 
and  cover  the  sceii  much  better  than  a  long  one. 


Such  a  brusldharrow  will  always  be  useful  to  have  at 
hand  for  putting  in  many  other  sm.all  seeds. 


Fig.  4. — effect  of  deep  and  shallow  sowing. 


The  .accompanying  illustration  represents  five  young 
plants  of  flax,  three  of  which  are  about  three  or  four 
inches  high,  the  seed  of  which  v\as  covered  about  half 
an  incli  deep.  Tlie  seed  of  the  one  at  the  left  hand  was 
bjiried  nearly  two  inches  deep  :  and  the  one  just  in  the 
seed-leaf  was  buried  still  deeper.  The  illustration  is  de¬ 
signed  to  show  the  importance  of  covering  all  the  seed 
of  a  uniform  depth,  in  order  to  have  all  the  stalks  as 
nearly  of  a  uniform  length  as  practicable.  When  some 
of  the  seed  is  buried  too  deeply,  those  plants  that  spring 
from  such  seed  as  may  be  covered  only  half  an  inch 
deep,  will  get  the  start  of  the  other  by  several  days’ 
growth,  which  will  produce  stalks  of  various  lengths. 
This  ouglit  carefully  to  be  guarded  against  in  putting 
in  the  seed.  Moreover,  wlien  a  flax  seed  germinates, 
the  kernel  is  carried  on  the  end  of  tlie  stem  to  the  sur¬ 
face  of  the  ground,  where  it  forms  two  leaves,  as  shown 
by  the  smallest  plant.  When  seed  vegetates  in  this  man¬ 
ner,  it  is  longer  coming  up  than  when  only  a  spear  is 
I  sent  up,  like  Indian  corn,  wlieat  or  oats.  Tlie  difficulty 
is  greater  on  heavy  than  on  a  light  soil.  And  if  flax  seed 
be  covered  deep  on  a  heavy  soil,  and  the  weatlier  be 
somewliat  dry,  it  will  be  impossible  for  it  to  come  up, 
while  oats  or  wheat  would  come  up  with  no  difficulty. 

Weeding  Flax.— If  the  soil  has  been  prepared,  and 
f'ihe  seed  put  in  at  the  time  and  in  the  manner  directed  in 
foregoing  paragraphs,  very  little  weeding  w'ill  be  re¬ 
quired;  but  if  Canada  thistles,  dock,  wild  mustard 
or  other  noxious  weeds  should  show  their  lieads,  let  a 
careful  man,  shod  with  two  or  three  pairs  of  old  woolen 
;  socks,  remove  them  when  the  flax  is  eight  or  ten 
inches  high.  A  lot  of  boys,  or  heedless  men  should  nev¬ 
er  be  allowed  to  go  among  flax,  unless  when  it  is 
very  young ;  because  if  it  is  trodden  down  after  it  hag 
grown  a  foot  or  more  in  hight,  most  of  it  will  never  re¬ 
cover  its  erect  position.  The  object  of  covering  the  feet 
with  something  soft  is,  that  the  plants  may  be  injured  as 
little  as  possible.  Hard  boots  and  shoes  will  crush  the 
stems  so  badly  that  if  they  should  straighten  up  again, 
there  would  be  a  bad  spot  in  the  fibre.  The  weeds  should 
be  cut  off  close  to  the  surface  of  the  ground,  gathered  in 
the  arms,  and  carried  to  a  pile— not  thrown  down.  If 
pulled  up,  much  of  the  flax  will  be  rooted  up  with  them. 
In  some  parts  of  the  Old  World,  men,  women,  girls 
and  boys  do  the  weeding,  when  the  flax  is  only  a  few 
inches  high  ;  they  sit  flat  on  the  young  flax,  hitch  along, 
and  weed  on  each  side  of  them  as  far  as  they’  can  reach. 
It  is  better  to  destroy  tlie  weeds  before  the  seed  is 
sowed,  and  keep  every  thing  off  the  young  flax. 

When  to  Pull  (or  Cut). — As  the  time  of  ripening 
approaches,  the  observing  farmer  will  appreciate  more 
than  at  any  previous  period,  the  importance  cf  the  de¬ 
tails  heretofore  given.  When  the  seed  has  been  harrow¬ 
ed  in  and  buried  deep  by  the  feet  of  teams,  the  flax  will 


no 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


r  Ai’uft,, 


ripen  very  iinevenly  ;  :iml  a  iiortinn  i>.(  it  «ill  lie  very 
green,  while  llie  remainder  will  sipiicai  fully  riiie.  Un- 
dei  such  e.irciiiiistances  it  will  he  necessary  to  estimate 
what  proportion  of  tlie  lieads  are  fully  ri|ie,  ami  liow 
large  apropoilion  are  still  too  green  to  he  (nilled.  When 
the  bolls  liave  assumed  a  brown  color,  and  the  leaves 
h.ave  died  for  one-fourth  the  length  of  the  stems  at  the 
butt  ends,  and  the  stems  have  changed  from  a  dark 
green  to  a  light  yellowish  color,  then  the  lias  is  lit 
to  pull  or  to  cut.  At  this  stage  of  growth,  it  will  yield 
more  and  belter  fibre  than  if  cut  at  any  other  period. 
In  case  it  is  too  green  when  pulled,  there  will  be  a  great 
loss  both  in  qumitily  and  quality.  If  the  seed  be  put  in 
as  directed,  almost  all  the  bolls  and  stems  will  ripen  iini- 
forndy  ;  and  it  will  be  very  easy  to  decide  as  to  the  best 
time  for  pulling  or  cutting  without  incurring  any  loss. 
When  a  man  has  a  number  of  acres  of  flax  to  be  pulled, 


Fig.  5. — STOOK  OF  FLAX. 

lie  should  not  wait  until  it  is  all  ready  before  he  com¬ 
mences,  lest  much  of  it  become  too  ripe.  Should  the 
soil  be  variable  in  its  character,  the  flax  will  ripen  un¬ 
evenly,  and  the  ripest  portions  may  be  pulled  first. 
When  flax  is  allowed  to  stand  until  it  is  all  dead  ripe, 
the  seed  will  be  of  a  superior  quality,  but  the  fibre  will 
not  be  so  heavy,  strong,  or  soft,  as  if  cut  earlier. 

PuLLiNo  Flax.— When  flax  is  pulled  by  hand,  each 
laborer  takes  a  strip  about  four  feet  wide,  and  either 
spreads  it  in  a  swath  behind  him,  or  throws  it  down  in 
gavels,  or  binds  it  himself,  as  fast  as  lie  pulls  it.  The  flax 
is  grasped  just  below  the  bolls,  with  both  hands,  and  pul¬ 
led  up  with  a  sudden  jerk.  If  it  be  pulled  slowly,  a 
much  larger  quantity  of  earth  will  adhere.  As  soon  as 
one  handful  is  pulled,  it  is  set  on  the  ground  close  to  the 
standing  flax,  and  held  with  one  hand,  while  the  other 
gathers  as  much  as  can  be  held  conveniently  ;  then  both 
hands  grasp  the  whole  and  pull.  When  enough  has  been 
pulled  to  make  a  gave!  as  large  as  the  puller  can  grasp 
with  both  hands,  which  will  make  a  bundle  about  five 
inches  in  diameter,  it  is  “butted”  once  or  twice  on  tlie 
ground,  to  even  it.  Any  scattering  stalks,  standing  or 
lying  on  the  ground,  are  gathered  for  bands,  and  the 
gavels  are  bound  at  once.  This  mode  is  usually  adopted 
in  preference  to  spreading  in  swaths.  If  the  weather  be 
wet  and  lowery,  it  will  be  belter,  at  any  rale,  to  bind  the 
flax  as  fast  as  pulled,  and  to  set  the  gavels  in  long  stocks, 
as  shown  in  fig.  5.  These  should  always  be  set  up  North 
and  South,  so  that  the  sun  may  shine  on  both  sides  of  the 
siook  in  the  course  of  the  day.  Before  the  gavel  leaves 
the  hands  of  the  puller,  he  should  strike  it  once  or  twice 
on  the  ground,  or  on  ids  foot,  to  knock  off  the  dirt.  In 
case  the  weather  is  pleasant,  it  is  always  better  to  spread 
out  each  gavel,  as  it  is  pulled,  about  one  inch  thick,  for 
the  purpose  of  sunning  it.  After  it  has  lain  in  the  sun 
from  half  a  day,  to  a  day,  it  ought  to  be  turned  over,  to 
sun  both  sides.  An  expert  puller  will  throw  every  gavel 
down  in  such  a  manner,  that  they  may  be  readily  taken 
up  w  hen  cured  enough  to  be  bound.  As  flax  will  hang 
together,  if  in  a  continuous  swath,  it  is  better  to  leave  a 
space  of  two  or  three  inches  between  the  spread  gavels, 
and  sometimes  they  are  laid  alternately  heads  and  buts. 
This  is  important,  so  that  they  may  each  be  turned  over 
readily,  or  taken  up  and  bound,  without  tangling.  When 
It  is  bound  as  soon  as  pulled,  and  set  in  stocks,  it  will  re¬ 
quire  from  one  to  two  weeks  to  cure,  before  it  will  be  fit 
to  stack  or  mow.  When  it  is  bound  as  fast  as  it  is  pulled, 
the  outside  of  the  flax  will  all  appear  sufficiently  cured  to 
be  stacked,  in  only  a  few  days,  while  much  of  the  middle 
of  the  bundles  will  be  too  green.  It  is  quite  as  important 
to  cure  all  the  stalks  and  seed  bolls  thoroughly,  before 
stacking,  as  to  cure  hay,  or  any  kind  of  grain.  The  ques¬ 
tion  is  frequently  asked,  why  it  is  not  as  well  to  cut  flax 
as  to  pull  it  ?  The  fibres  of  flax  diminish  in  size,  tapering 
from  a  few  inches  above  the  root  until  they  run  entirely 
out  at  the  root  of  the  plant.  It  will,  therefore,  run  much 
smoother  when  spun,  and  will  form  a  cleaner  and  smooth¬ 
er  thread  than  if  the  fibre  is  cut  in  two.  If  the  stalks  can 
be  cut  within  an  inch  of  the  root,  nearly  tlie  entire 
lengtti  0,  the  fibre  w  ill  be  secured,  as  well  as  a  part  of 
the  advantage  of  this  tapering  of  the  fibre.  In  some 
parts  of  our  country,  dealers  make  a  difference  in  the 
price  between  “reaper-cut”  and  pulled  fiax. 

PuLLiNO  WITH  Machines. — Several  different  machines 
have  tieeii  invented  for  pulling  flax,  which  have  done 
toleiaiily  good  work,  when  the  ground  was  smoolh,  level, 
and  s«  itr  that  but  little  earth  adhered  to  the  roots. 


.Most  of  them  injured  the  fibre  more  or  less,  and  some 
mold  not  be  adjusted  to  pull  short  and  long  flax  equally 
well,  neither  would  they  alw  ays  deliver  it  evenly  ;  and 
when  much  earth  adhered  to  the  roots,  it  would  either 
obstruct  the  machinery,  or  too  much  hand  labor  was  re¬ 
quired  to  remove  the  dirt  before  it  came  dry.  In  some 
instances  where  the  soil  was  prepared  with  much  care 
and  the  seed  put  in  as  previously  directed,  the  writer 
has  seen  flax  puiled  in  a  neat  manner  at  the  rate  of  three 
to  four  acres  per  day,  with  two  hands  and  two  horses. 
But,  flax-pulling  machines  have  not  been  introduced  ex¬ 
cept  to  a  very  limited  extent. 

CiiADLiNG  AND  MowiNo  Flax. — When  the  soil  has 
been  prepared,  as  previously  directed,  and  the  surface 
made  very  smooth,  if  the  flax  stands  up  well,  an  expert 
cradler  will  cut  it  very  close  to  the  ground,  and  lay  it 
evenly  in  a  swath.  But  I  have  always  found  that  1  could 
cut  it  closer  with  a  scythe  than  with  a  cradle,  do  it  with 
less  fatigue,  and  at  the  same  time  lay  it  in  a  swath  quite 
as  evenly  as  it  could  be  done  with  a  cradle.  The  scythe 
must  be  placed  flat  on  the  ground,  and  both  heel  and  point 
kept  well  dow  n,  not  only  when  it  is  set  in,  but  in  pointing 
out.  1  was  always  accustomed  to  cut  a  swath  about 
or  8  feet  wide,  and  to  jerk  the  point  of  the  scythe  towards 
me.  when  pointing  out,  as  soon  as  the  last  stalks  were  cut 
off.  This  motion  of  the  scythe  tended  to  straighten  the 
uniler  side  of  the  swath,  and  by  bringing  the  heel  around 
just  so  far  every  time,  and  giving  the  scythe  just  a  certain 
motion,  1  could  always  lay  the  flax  as  straight  as  if  it  had 
been  imlled,  and,  if  the  ground  was  smooth,  could  shave 
it  within  an  inch  of  the  surface.  The  small  amount  of 
fibre  that  remained  in  the  stubble  would  not  be  an  equiv¬ 
alent  for  the  greater  expense  incurred  by  pulling.  When 
any  of  the  flax  has  grown  so  large  that  it  falls  down,  it 
can  be  cut  with  a  scythe  much  better  than  with  a  cradle. 
If  it  is  very  long  and  heavy,  when  it  is  down  it  will  be 
better  to  pull  such  plots,  than  to  mow  them.  Let  the 
sw  aths  be  turned  over  after  they  have  been  sunned  suffici¬ 
ently.  In  turning  use  a  pole,  let  it  be  tlirust  under  the 
swath,  and  every  time  turn  only  enough  to  make  one 
bundle,  keeping  the  divisions  distinct.  Wliether  the  fiax 
is  pulled,  cradled,  or  mowed,  it  is  important  to  keep  the 
buts  as  even  as  practicable  before  binding  the  gavels. 

Assorting  Flax. — When  flax  of  various  lengths  is 
bound  together,  a  large  portion  of  the  fibre  of  the  short 
stalks  will  be  separated  from  the  long  fibre,  in  the  dress¬ 
ing,  ami  be  wasted  in  the  tow.  Furthermore,  when  the 
seed  is  threshed  off,  if  the  short  stalks  be  bound  up  with 
long  ones,  many  bolls  will  not  be  threshed,  and  all  their 
seed  will  be  lost.  For  these  reasons,  it  ie  important  tiiat 
the  long  flax  should  not  be  bound  In  the  same  bundle 
with  short  flax.  If  it  be  pulled  by  hand,  it  will  be  very 
ea.'iy  to  assort  it,  when  pulling  it,  by  pulling  a  handful  of 
the  long,  and  then  of  the  short,  putting  each  in  separate 
gavels.  When  it  is  mowed,  or  cradled,  by  taking  a  little 
pains,  the  short  stalks  may  be  laid,  for  the  most  part,  in  a 
swath  by  themselves,  and  the  long  ones  in  another  swath. 
Long  bunilles  and  short  ones  need  not  be  kept  separate. 
It  is  only  necessary  to  keep  the  long  stalks  and  the  short 
ones  in  separate  gavels,  in  order  to  dress  those  of  the 
same  length  together. 


Fig.  6.— STACK  OF  FLAX. 


Manner  of  Stacking.— It  is  not  always  convenient 
to  put  flax  in  a  barn,  and  it  is  important  to  keep  it 
where  hay  seed,  chaff,  and  straw  will  not  be  mingled  w  ith 
it,  and  where  mice  and  rats  will  not  work.  The  best 
way  of  stacking  it  is,  to  make  a  long  stack-bottom,  by 
placing  three  poles,  sticks  of  timber,  or  plank,  side  by 
side,  from  two  to  three  feet  apart,  according  to  the  length 
of  the  haulm,  and  one  foot  above  the  ground  ;  and  then 
lay  two  courses  of  sheaves,  with  the  tops  together,  and 
with  one  course  above  another,  as  represented  in  fig.  6. 
As  flax  haulm  will  hang  together  so  well,  the  ends  of  the 
stack  may  be  carried  up  square,  without  any  posts  or 
stakes.  In  order  to  give  the  sheaves  a  good  pitch,  the 
heads  of  a  few  of  the  top  courses  may  be  l.aid  on  each 
other.  Then  cover  it  with  canvas,  or  with,  boards,  as  re¬ 
presented  in  flg.  6.  If  barn  room  can  be  had,  iet  all  chafl 
and  hay  seed  be  swept  away  before  the  flax  is  hauled  in. 


Tangled  Flx. — When  flax  is  mowed  by  hanu.  or  with 
a  mower,  and  the  stalks  are  not  kept  straight,  it  is  called 
tangled  flax.  My  own  practice,  which  coincides  with 
the  practice  of  other  farmers  who  aie  accustomed  to 
raise  flax,  was,  to  cut  it  as  close  to  the  ground  is  possible, 
and  cure  it,  r.ake  it,  cock  it,  and  stack  it,  or  put  it  in  a 
mow,  just  as  if  it  were  hay.  When  it  was  mowed  with 
scythes,  I  let  it  remain  about  one  day  in  the  swath,  and 
then  turned  it  over.  As  soon  as  it  appeared  sufficiently 
cured,  I  raked  it  into  bunches  with  hand  or  horse  rakes. 
If  the  weather  were  favorable,  we  were  always  accus¬ 
tomed  to  let  it  remain  in  bunches  about  as  large  as  a 
man  could  pitch  at  one  forkful.  When  flax  was  man¬ 
aged  in  this  way,  we  were  always  accustomed  to  put 
it  in  the  bam,  in  preference  to  stacking  it.  When  it  is 
stacked,  however,  tlie  top  of  the  stack  should  be  built 
sloping,  instead  of  pointed,  like  a  roof,  and  covered 
with  sound  boards,  or  with  canvas,  as  a  slack  of 
tangled  flax  will  not  turn  rain  so  well  as  hay.  When 
the  flax  was  to  be  cut  with  a  reaper,  and  it  was 
desirable  to  keep  the  stalks  straight,  we  put  on  the  plat 
form  as  for  reaping  grain,  forked  off  the  flax  in  gavels, 
and  let  fliem  be  set  on  the  but-ends,  as  soon  as  cut,  as 
illustrated  by  fig.  7,  which  represents  a  gavel  of  flax 
placed  on  the  end.  Sometimes 
the  flax  is  so  long  and  heavy 
that  it  will  not  be  practicable 
to  rake,  or  fork  it  off,  w  hile  the 
reaper  is  in  motion.  In  such 
a  case,  as  soon  as  enough  for 
a  gavel  has  been  cut,  stop  the 
machine,  remove  it  with  the 
hand,  and  set  it  on  the  buts, 
and  let  another  hand  straighten 
it  up.  A  little  longer  time 
will  be  requiied,  if  the  reaper 
is  stopped  for  every  gavel, 
but  the  work  will  be  done 
enough  better  to  compensate  for  the  extra"  pains  to 
keep  the  stalks  straight,  and  time  will  be  gained  in  the  end. 

Threshing  Flax. — When  flax  is  bound  in  small 
sheaves,  we  used  sometimes  to  take  a  bundle  in  both 
hands  and  strike  the  heads  on  a  large  stone,  or  plow 
turned  upside  down  on  the  barn  floor.  Sometiines  the 
seed  was  threshed  off  with  flails.  If  the  sheaves  are 
not  too  large,  the  best  way  is  to  whip  it  out  on  a  large 
boulder.  Strips  of  canvas,  or  blankets,  should  be  hung 
up  on  three  sides,  to  keep  the  seed  from  flying  beyond 
the  floor.  When  the  seed  is  whipped  out  on  a  stone, 
all  the  loose  seed  will  of  necessity  be  separated  from 
the  haulm  ;  but  when  it  is  threshed  with  flails,  the  sheaves 
lequire  much  shaking  to  separate  the  shelled  seed. 
Moreover,  flails  will  break  the  stalks,  more  or  less,  which 
w  orks  an  injury  to  the  fibre  during  . the  rotting  process. 
When  the  seed  is  whipped  out  on  a  stone,  the  stalks 
will  not  be  broken,  and  a  man  can  thus  whip  out  more 
seed  than  he  can  thresh  with  a  flail.  Another  way  is, 
to  thresh  with  a  common  threshing  machine.  If  the 
cylinder  is  what  is  called  an  “  over-shot  ”  cylinder,  raise 
the  concave  so  that  the  ends  of  the  spikes  in  the  concave 
and  in  the  cylinder  will  just  meet,  but  not  p.ass  between 
each  other.  If  the  concave  is  beneath  the  cylinder,  ami 
can  not  be  lowered,  adjust  the  feeding  table  so  that  a 
bundle  of  flax  may  be  thrust  directly  against  the  iniiidle 
of  tlie  cylinder.  This  done,  thrust  the  top  of  eaidi  bundle 
against  the  cylinder  when  it  is  in  motion,  and  be  careful 
not  to  let  it  be  snatched  out  of  your  hands.  The  bundles 
should  not  be  held  to  the  cylinder,  after  the  bolls  are  re¬ 
moved,  as  the  spikes  would  lacerate  the  fibre.  Thrust 
the  bundle  against  the  cylinder,  and  withdraw  it,  turning 
it  partly  over,  and  give  it  another  thrust,  until  all  the 
bolls  are  removed.  We  never  unbind  our  bundles  of  flax 
to  thresh  them  with  a  machine. 

Tangled  flax  is  sometimes  threshed  with  horses  by 
treading  it  out,  and  sometimes  it  is  run  through  a  thresh 
ing  machine,  as  oats  and  wheat  are  threshed.  But  lha 
concave  must  be  raised,  or  lowered,  as  the  case  may  be, 
from  the  cylinder,  so  as  to  make  as  much  space  as  pos 
sible  between  them,  and  still  thresh  clean.  When  the 
concave  is  not  adjustible,  some  threshers  take  out  half  or 
two-thirds  of  the  spikes  in  the  cylinder.  As  flax  seed 
will  thresh  very  easily,  it  is  not  necessary  to  set  the  con¬ 
cave  as  close  to  the  cylinder  as  to  thresh  cereal  grain, 
and,  furtliermore,  wlien  it  is  set  close  to  the  cylinder  the 
machine  will  not  thresh  one  half  as  fast.  In  case  the 
flax  is  long  and  damp,  the  machine  must  be  fed  with 
care,  or  it  will  wind  up  on  the  cylinder,  and  clioke  the 
machine,  or  damage  tlie  fibre. 

Rippling. — Rippling  and  threshing  are  frequently  used 
in  America,  as  synonymous  terms.  In  the  Old  World,  the 
bolls  are  usually  separated  by  rippling,  which  is  done  as 
soon  as  practicable  after  the  flax  is  pulled,  and  before  it 
has  been  allowed  to  cure.  The  flax  is  pulled  while  a 
portion  of  the  seed  is  yet  in  the  dough  stale,  and  the  tons 
are  drawn  through  a  rippler,  a  coarse  hatchel,  o'-  comb 
witti  long,  sharp-pointed  iron  teeth,  w  hiidi  teai  ofl  all 
tlie  bolls  and  chaff,  whether  green  or  matured  and.the  flax 


Fig.  7. — GAVEL. 


18(?5.j 


AMF.TU^-AX  AOTUC^riFTITRrST 


111 


ts  hiiri  ied  au  ay  to  be  l  otted  as  soon  as  praotinable,  before 
It  lias  been  allowed  to  cure.  Tlie  bolls,  seeil,  and 
chaff  are  all  spread  out  on  a  floor  and  dried,  and  mingled 
with  oats  or  barley,  and  ground  into  meal  for  feed.  Tliis 
constitutes  the  difference  between  rippling  and  threshing. 
Both  green  and  dry  bolls  may  be  separated  from  the 
haulm  by  rippling,  but  green  ones  can  not  be  threshed. 

Rotting  ok  Retting. — After  the  seed  has  been  sepa¬ 
rated  the  stiilks  are  passed  into  the  hands  of  the 
manufacturer,  wliose  business  it  is  to  prepare  the  fibre 
for  market  by  rotting  and  dressing  it.  If  the  producer 
desires  tt>  perform  a  portion  of  tliis  itibor  himself,  lie 
should  understand  what  to  do  and  how  to  do  tlie  work. 
The  stalk  straw  or  haulm  of  flax  consists  of  two  parts, 
the  fibre,  whicli  is  the  inner  bark,  and  the  sliives,  which 
is  the  woody  interior  portion,  and  which  is  tilso  frequent¬ 
ly  called  slioove,  sliove,  boon  and  hurl.  Tiie  fibre  ad¬ 
heres  firmly  to  tlie  stalk  by  means  of  a  glutinous  sub¬ 
stance,  and  the  object  of  rotting  the  stalks  is  to 
dissolve  and  decompose  tlie  mucilage  which  holds  the 
fibre  and  the  woody  parts  so  firmly  together  ,  and  when 
the  flax  is  properly  rotted,  the  shives  will  separate  from 
the  fibre  as  readily  as  bark  wi.,  peel  from  a  young  willow 
sprout  in  early  summer.  There  are  two  ways  of  rot¬ 
ting  flax,  preparatory  to  dressing  it.  One  is  called  aeri¬ 
al  rotting,  and  tlie  other  water  rotting  or  steeping. 

Aerial  or  Dew  Rotting— This  is  accomplished  by 
spreading  the  flax  on  a  smooth  grass  plot  in  long 
straiglit  swaths,  about  half  an  inch  thick.  A  lad  goes 
before  the  man  who  spreads  the  flax  and  divides  the 
bundles  into  handfuls,  throwing  them  down  where  the 
swath  is  to  be  made.  Tlie  spreader  either  bends  his 
body  forward,  or  squats  down  with  the  tops  of  the  stalks 
toward  him  :  and  with  a  quick  motion  spreads  the 
handfuls  as  fast  as  they  can  be  thrown  to  him. 
There  are  only  two  things  to  be  observed  when  spread¬ 
ing  flax,  which  are,  to  keep  the  butts  even,  and  to  spread 
it  of  a  uniform  thickness.  Some  men  spread  tlie  swaths 
so  closely  that  they  touch  each  other.  But  1  alw  ays  pre¬ 
fer  to  leave  a  space  of  a  few  inches  between  the 
swaths  to  [irevent  the  tops  of  one  being  tangled  with  anoth¬ 
er.  After  it  has  lain  a  week  or  ten  days,  it  should  all 
be  turned  upside  dovvn,  by  running  a  long  slim  pole,  say 
twenty  feet  long,  beneath  the  swath,  near  the  top  ends 
of  the  flax,  and  let  a  man  and  a  boy  turn  over  a  section 
of  about  twenty  feet  at  once.  I  have  always  found  that 
two  hands  would  perform  this  part  of  the  work  better 
than  one  man  could  do  it  with  a  .short  pole  ;  because 
every  time  a  portion  of  a  swath  is  raised,  unless  some 
one  stands  on  the  swath  where  the  separation  is  to  be 
made,  it  will  be  more  or  less  tangled. 

The  length  of  time  required  for  rotting  will  depend  en¬ 
tirely  on  the  state  of  the  weatlier.  If  alternate  rains 
and  sunshine  prevail,  two,  three,  or  four  weeks  will  be 
sutfioieut.  The  length  of  time  that  flax  has  been  spread 
must  never  be  relied  on  as  a  correct  guide  for  determin¬ 
ing  whether  or  not  it  is  rotted  enough.  There  are  cer¬ 
tain  rules  which  all  experienced  flax  growers  understand, 
which  will  enable  a  beginner  to  determine  correctly, 
wihen  it  is  sufficiently  rotted.  The  most  reliable  rule  is, 
the  stalks  when  dry  if  bent  with  the  fingers,  will  snap 
like  pieces  of  glass,  and  the  shives  separate  freely  from 
the  fibre.  Beginners  should  watch  their  flax  every  day 
and  apply  this  test,  lest  it  be  rotted  too  much, 
which  will  cause  a  great  waste  of  good  fibre.  When 
flax  has  rotted  loo  mucli  the  fibre  will  separate  from  the 
shives  at  the  junction  of  the  main  stem  and  branches  ; 
and  sometimes  the  fibre  of  the  main  stems  will  separate 
from  the  shive  ;  and  portions  of  the  stem  will  be  seen  in 
the  form  of  an  Inilian’s  bow,  when  adjusted  for  the  ar¬ 
row.  It  needs  a  little  experience  to  determine  the  point 
at  which  flax  is  sufficiently  rotted. 

Steeping  or  W  ater  Rotting.— The  true  way  of  rot¬ 
ting  flax  is  to  steep  i'  in  w  ater,  because  it  cannot  be  well 
done  by  dew  rotting  If  the  weatlier  be  ever  so  favor¬ 
able.  a  good  proportion  of  it  will  be  rotted  too  much  if  it 
be  kept  on  the  ground  until  all  the  stalks  are  rotted 
enough.  But  when  flax  is  steeped  or  water-rotted,  there 
is  greater  uniformity  in  the  process.  In  case  it  is  kept  in 
the  water  just  long  enough,  it  w  ill  all  be  rotted  alike,  and 
it  will  be  done  very  much  better  than  it  can  possibly  be 
accomplished  by  dew  rotting.  Moreover,  flax  can  be 
rotted  very  much  sooner  by  steeping,  than  by  dew  rotting, 
the  object  being  simply  to  dissolve  the  mucilage  that 
holds  the  fibre  and  woody  |iarts  together,  so  that  they 
will  separate  readily  as  soon  as  the  flax  has  been  dried. 

Prepare  a  pond  of  water  in  the  same  way  that  a  mill 
dam  is  constructed,  with  a  waste  gate  in  the  dam,  to  let 
the  wmter  off  at  pleasure.  .A  suitable  place  can  be  pre¬ 
pared  on  almost  every  farm  at  a  trifling  expense.  The 
bundles  are  held  in  an  erect  po.silion,  a  few  inches  from 
the  ground,  so  that  the  water  may  pass  both  beneath  and 
above  them.  For  this  purpose  a  platform  may  be  made 
of  rails  or  boards,  and  fastened  down  with  stones  or 
stakes.  Then  set  up  the  bundles  and  drive  down  stakes, 
•nd  nail  strips  of  boards  from  one  to  the  other,  over  the 


lops  of  the  bundles  to  keep  them  from  rising  out  of  the 
water  which  should  be  a  few  inches  deep  over  the  flax. 
Then  shut  the  waste  gate  and  let  the  pond  fill.  Some¬ 
times  a  orate  is  made,  and  launched  on  a  mill  pond  and 
the  bundles  secured  in  it,  when  it  is  floated  into  deep 
water  and  sunk  sufficiently  with  stones  [ilaced  on 
the  orate.  Soft  rain  water  is  superior  to  spring  water  for 
rotting.  While  it  is  in  the  water  a  partial  fermentation 
commences  which  must  be  arrested  at  the  proper  time, 
or  the  fibre  will  be  damaged  in  proportion  to  the  degree 
of  fermentation  beyond  the  proper  state. 

When  to  Remove  from  the  Steep.— As  the  process 
of  fermentation  will  progress  very  slowly  in  cool  w  eather 
and  rapidly  in  warm,  it  is  impossible  to  state  any  definite 
period  of  lime  for  keeping  it  in  the  water.  If  the  water 
were  of  the  correct  temperature,  the  process  of  rotting 
would  be  completed  in  six  or  seven  days.  The  cooler 
the  water  is  the  longer  the  flax  will  be  in  rottimr.  After 
it  has  been  steeping  about  live  days  it  should  be  examined 
carefully  everyday,  for  the  purpose  of  ascertaining  when 
it  is  rotted  just  enough.  Pull  a  few  stalks  out  of  differ¬ 
ent  bundles  in  several  places  and  break  into  pieces  a 
few  inches  long  and  pull  out  the  sliive.s.  If  they  separ¬ 


ate  very  freely  from  the  fibre,  the  water  should  be  let  off 
without  delay,  and  the  flax  spread  out  on  clean  grass  to 
dry ;  and  as  soon  as  dry  enough,  it  should  be  bound 
in  large  bundles  and  housed. 

Breaking. —  The  Hand-Rrake, — Fig.  S  is  a  cheap  hantl- 
brake.  The  lower  part  consists  of  three  slats  of  hard 
wood.  4  feet  long,  a  inches 
"iile,  IK  inches  thick,  fas¬ 
tened  firmly  into  the  post  of 
a  building,  at  one  enii,  and 
the  other  emls  mortised  in- 
t'l  a  frame.  The  upper  edges 
of  each  slat  should  be  ciress- 
ed  to  an  edge.  Twohladesof 
the  same  form  and  size  are 
bolted  in  long  mortise.s  in 
the  post,  as  shoun,  and  the 
Ollier  ends  of  the-e  slats  are 
fixed  in  a  block.  Set  the  two 
upper  opposite  the  spaces  be- 
tvxeen  the  lower  slats  ;  and  the 
edges  of  all,  when  shut  to- 
Fio-  — gavel  holder,  gelher,  should  be  on  the  same 
level.  A  wooden  pin  in  the  head  above  the  blades  serves 
for  a  handle.  The  slats  in  brakes  of  this  form  are  some¬ 
times  made  to  shut  betvseen  one  another,  as  a  knife  blade 
into  its  handle.  This  is  a  w  rong  construction,  because 
when  tlie  edges  of  the  slats  pass  by  each  other,  they 
stretch  and  tear  much  of  the  fibre,  and  break  out  the 
shives  no  better.  In  using  such  a  brake,  crush  a  handful 
of  straw  between  the  slats,  working  the  upper  part 
up  and  down,  moving  the  handful  along,  and  turning  it 
over,  until  the  shives  are  well  broken  from  end  to  end. 


For  convenience  in  holding  a  handful  while  breaking  it, 
make  two  slicks,  ifig.  9.)  about  a  foot  long,  and  three- 


foiiiths  of  an  inch  in  diameter,  and  tie  them  together, 
about  15  inches  apart,  with  a  small  coid.  The  cord  ii 


Fig.  II. — SCUTCHING  BOARD.  Fig.  12.  SWINQLI. 

passed  around  the  handful  of  flax,  as  shown  by  the  dotted 
line,  and  the  tw  o  sticks  are  grasped  with  one  hand.  By  this 
means  a  man  can  hold  the  flax  firmly  and  keep  it  even, 
which  he  can  not  do  w  ith  his  hand  alone. 

The  Horse-Brake. — Figure  10.  shows  a  cheap  revolving 
break,  w  hich  is  driven  by  horse,  or  water-power.  It  con 
sists  of  two  fluted,  or  corrugated  rollers  between  which 
the  bunches  of  flax  are  passed  repetitedly.  until  the  stalk.' 
are  broken  so  finely  that  the  shives  may  be  readily  separ¬ 
ated  by  shaking  and  w  ith  the  scutcher.  The  rollers  are 
about  two  feet  long,  and  six  inches  in  diameter.  The 
lower  roller  is  stationary,  and  the  bearings  of  the  tippet 
one  play  up  and  down  in  slots  three  inches  long.  This 
roller  i.s  held  down  to  the  other  by  iron  laals,  or  strips  ol 
band  iron,  which  pass  over  the  gudgeons  ami  beneath  a 
stick,  which  hoMs  a  tubful  of  stones.  The  weight  can 
be  increased  tit  pleasure.  A  large  driving  pulley  on  the 
journal  of  the  lower  roller,  gives  them  a  velocity  of  about 
one  hunilred  revidiilions  per  minute.  The  rollers  ma> 
be  made  of  cast  iron,  or  of  wood  covered  with  iron  ridges, 
screwed  firmly  to  its  surface.  A  hamlful  of  flax  is  pl.aceil 
on  the  inclined  feeding  table,  ami  a  man  catches  it  at 
the  rollers  bring  it  through  toward  him.  He  then  places 
it  again  on  the  feeding  table,  and  continues  to  run  it 
through  until  it  is  thoroughly  broken.  A  .'ter  the  flax  is 
broken,  the  loose  shives  are  shaken  out,  and  the  remain 
der  are  scutched  out. 

Scutching.— Figtire  12  represents  a  hand  scutcher,  oi 
swingling  knife.  It  is  of  hard  wood,  2  feet  long,  with  two 
edges.  The  hand  scutching  board  is  about  .2  feet  long,  and 
one  foot  wide,  with  a  notch  ;is  shown  in  the  cut,  and  fa.'ten- 
eil  securely  to  a  heavy  block  as  shown  in  fig.  11.  The 
length  of  the  scutching  botird  is  regulated  by  the  stature  ot 
the  man  who  uses  it.  Ahandfiilof  flaxisheld  by  the  op¬ 
erator  in  one  hand  in  the  notch  of  tlie  scutching  board, 
when  the  knife  is 
struck  on  it  as  if  it 
were  to  be  cut  off 
on  a  line  with  the 
surface  of  the 
board.  The  hand¬ 
fuls  are  turned 
over,  and  both  ends 
are  scutcheti  until 
the  shives  are  re¬ 
moved.  A  revolving 
power  scutcher  is 
shown  in  fig.  13. 

This  consists  of  a 
wooden  shaft,  with 
a  system  of  scutch¬ 
ing  knives  set  in  it, 
like  the  spokes  of  a 
wheel. These  knives 
have  but  one  edge  ; 
and  they  must  re¬ 
volve  as  true  as  a  F>g-  13— power 
mill  stone.  The  shaft  should  make  from  one  hundred 
and  fifty  to  two  hundred  revolutions  per  minute  ;  it  may 
be  of  any  desirable  length,  with  scutching  knives  every 
four  feet.  The  knives  revolve  close  to  a  scutching  board. 
After  the  bunches  have  been  well  scutched,  they  are 
hatcheleil.  The  teeth  of  a  fine  hatchel  are  about  six 
inches  long,  one  eighth  of  an  inch  in  diameter  at  the  large 
end,  and  taper  to  a  sharp  point.  About  10  of  these  are 
set  about  one  fourth  of  an  inch  apart,  in  a  hard  board 
and  the  fibre  is  drawn  through  them  until  it  is  sufficieiitli 
lacerated  and  combed.  The  handfuls  are  then  twisted  a 
little,  and  packed  in  a  clean  box  for  market.  In  some 
markets,  however,  hatcheled  fibre  will  command  no 
larger  price  titan  the  unhatcheled.  because  the  process 
of  hatcheling  is  the  business  of  the  spinner,  and  requires 
skilled  labor  to  do  it  prtqterly.  An  inexperience  hatchel- 
erwill  waste  a  large  percentage  of  good  fibre.  For  this 
reason,  flax  growers  should  aim  simply  to  remove  the 
shives  or  “  boon,”,  and  leave  the  fibre  as  whole  and  long 
as  possible,  and  let  the  spinner  perform  the  hatcheling, 
unless  dealers  make  a  great  difference  in  the  pr’ae 
tween  the  hatcheled  and  unhatcheled  fibre, 


112 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Arim. 


Selecting  Seed  Corn. 


“When  seed  corn  has  not  been  saved  in  autumn,” 
writes  an  experienced  person,  “  it  sliould  be  se¬ 
lected  from  the  crib  with  niiicli  care.  Clioose 
ilie  long  ears,  willi  large  kernels  and  small  cob. 
Let  every  ear  be  broken  in  two,  before  shelling. 
If  the  pith  and  cob  be  bright,  the  seed  will  vege¬ 
tate;  but  if  they  appear  to  have  been  water- 
soaked  and  are  dark-colored  and  somewhat 
mould}’,  the  vitality  of  the  germs  has  been  in¬ 
jured,  if  not  entirely  destroyed.  Then  with  an 
a.x  cut  off  an  inch  of  the  top  end  of  the  ears 
selected,  and  all  the  irregular  kernels  at  the 
large  end.  They  can  be  cut  off  quicker  than 
shelled  off.  The  small  kernels  on  the  tip,  and 
irregular  ones  on  the  butt  of  the  ear  will  not 
produce  as  much,  nor  as  handsome  grain  as 
those  that  grow  in  the  middle  of  the  cob.  By 
continuing  to  plant  the  small  kernels  of  the 
little  end  of  ears,  for  a  few  years  in  succession, 
the  ears  will  be  shorter,  and  the  kernels  small¬ 
er;  and  the  irregular  kernels  of  the  butt  end 
will  produce  ears  destitute  of  kernels  in  rows. 
The  writer  once  planted  irregular  kernels  for 
a  few  successive  years,  and  the  product  was 
short,  thick  ears,  the  kernels  of  irregular  form, 
not  in  rows,  on  large  cobs.  When  seed  corn  is 
obtained  from  another  part  of  the  country,  it 
will  usually  ripen  earlier  when  carried  south  of 
the  locality  where  it  grew.  A  few  miles,  how¬ 
ever,  would  make  no  perceptible  difference. 
The  practice  of  some  farmers  in  Central  New- 
York  is,  to  obtain  seed  that  grew  near 
the  shores  of  lakes  and  rivers,  -which  had 
ripened  ten  to  fourteen  days  before  that  grown 
on  the  upland.  By  this  means  their  corn  is 
usually  fit  to  cut  up  a  few  days  sooner  than 
it  would  have  been,  if  they  had  planted  their 
own  seed,  and  will  often  escape  early  frost.” 


Preparation  of  Wheat  for  Sowing. 


Adjust  the  fanning-mill  to  give  a  light  shake, 
and  heavy  blast,  and  put  in  the  screen-board  to 
carry  the  grain  outward,  to  drop  within  three 
or  four  inches  of  the  end  of  the  coarse  screen, 
which  will  allow  all  the  small  kernels  and  seeds 
of  various  weeds  to  fall  into  the  screen-box. 
The  wheat  sieve  should  be  set  in  the  slanting 
gains,  for  c.arrying  off  the  oats  and  other  foreign 
matters.  Most  of  the  light  wheat  will  also  be 
blown  over  the  screen,  and  the  largest  kernels 
will  run  down  through  the  mill  to  the  floor. 
The  grain  that  is  blown  over,  as  -well  as  that 
which  goes  into  the  screen-box,  will  m.ake  good 
flour,  but  is  not  good  for  seed.  If  the  oats  be 
not  all  blown  out  of  the  seed,  at  first  a  wheat 
sieve  of  perforated  zinc,  or  pressed  wire  cloth, 
must  be  put  in  the  slanting  gains,  the  screen- 
board  removed,  and  the  seed  run  through 
again,  with  light  shake,  and  slow  feed.  The 
holes  of  the  perforated  zinc,  or  meshes  of  wire 
cloth,  should  be  just  large  enough  to  allow  the 
wheat  to  pass  through.  Then,  if  the  shoe  of  the 
mill  be  adjusted  to  shake  level,  the  remaining 
kernels  of  heavy  oats  will  slide  over  the  holes, 
and  fall  beyond  the  sieves.  By  this  means,  all 
the  half-ripe  and  shrunken  kernels,  not  fit  for 
seed,  will  be  separated  from  the  large  ones, 
which  will  produce  earlier  and  better  grain. 
These  directions  are  applicable  only  to  those 
farmers  who  have  nothing  but  an  ordinary  fan¬ 
ning-mill.  In  some  of  the  improved  grain-sepa¬ 
rators,  with  only  once  running  thi’ough,  nearly 
every  kernel  of  oats  will  pass  over  the  screen, 
while  the  wheat  will  be  neatly  assorted  and 
dropped  into  four  different  boxes,  the  largest 


kernels,  most  suitable  for  seed,  being  deposited 
in  the  first  box,  and  the  sm.allest  in  the  fourth 
box.  Before  sowing,  prepare  a  strong  brine. 
Half  a  barrel  will  be  needed  to  pickle  as  little 
as  4  or  5  bushels  of  grain,  but  of  course,  would 
answer  for  much  more,  and  to  this  quantity  add 
half  a  pound  of  blue  vitriol  (sulphate  of  copper). 
A  portion  is  done  at  a  time,  stirring  it  well,  and 
skimming  off  all  that  floats,  dirt,  foul  stuff,  smut¬ 
ty  grains,  etc.  As  fast  as  each  portion  is  soaked, 
throw  it  out  into  a  basket  to  drain.  The  pick¬ 
ling  should  be  done  4  to  12  hours  before  sowing. 
Just  previous  to  sowing,  the  grain  should  be 
spread  out  upon  a  clean  floor  and  rolled  in 
lime  slaked  to  a  dry  powder,  stirring  the  heap 
with  rakes.  Wheat  should  always  be  drill¬ 
ed  in  where  this  is  practicable. 

- - - mWw - - - 

Soils  for  Spring  Wheat. 


Wheat,  whether  winter  or  spring,  does  best 
in  soils  in  which  there  is  a  good  portion  of  clay. 
When  the  soil  is  composed  for  the  most  part  of 
muck,  as  occurs  in  many  places  in  New- York, 
Canada,  and  some  of  the  Western  States,  it  re¬ 
quires  much  preparation  before  it  will  produce 
well,  and  such  soils  can  only  be  made  to  yield 
he.avy  crops  of  wheat,  with  profit,  when  clay, 
in  some  form,  can  be  supplied.  A  firm,  fertile, 
and  dry  soil,  is  particularly  adapted  to  wheat, 
and  such  soils  as  have  been  under-drained  are 
more  productive,  and  require  much  less  manure. 
In  many  places,  where  a  black,  mucky  soil, 
several  inches  deep,  rests  on  a  heavy  sub-soil, 
by  turning  up  two  or  three  inches  of  the  latter 
in  autumn,  and  mingling  it  thoroughly  with  the 
soil,  draining  if  necessary,  and  manuring,  a 
very  good  wheat  soil  may  be  formed  in  a  few 
years.  Where  the  muck  is  so  deep  that  the 
clayey  sub-soil  cannot  be  reached  with  a  plow, 
and  clay  can  be  obtained  within  a  distance  of 
half  a  mile,  it  will  pay  to  apply  eighty  or  a 
hundred  loads  per  acre.  The  best  time  to 
spread  it  is  late  in  autumn,  or  in  -n’inter,  that  it 
may  be  acted  upon  by  rains  and  frosts.  Still,  if 
applied  in  the  spring,  and  plowed  in,  the  effect 
will  be  good  on  the  crop  the  same  year.  Por¬ 
tions  of  fields  frequently  are  very  heavy,  while 
other  portions  are  composed,  for  the  most  part, 
of  vegetable  mould.  The  practice  of  the 
writer  has  been  to  haul  mucky  soil  and  spread 
it  on  the  heavy  clay,  and  in  all  cases  the  applica¬ 
tion  has  produced  an  equal  or  better  effect  for 
wheat  than  a  liberal  application  of  good  barn¬ 
yard  manure.  As  there  is  a  great  difference 
in  muck,  this  might  not  always  be  the  case. 
Such  compact,  heavy  soils  contain  a  large 
amount  of  wheat-producing  material,  but  need 
to  be  made  light  and  porous,  so  that  the  roots 
of  the  wheat  plants  can  permeate  the  entire  soil 
as  deeply  as  it  has  been  pulverized.  The  best 
preparation  of  the  land  for  wheat,  is  a  dressing 
of  well-rotted,  or  composted,  barn-yard  manure. 
Unrotted  manure  tends  to  produce  a  heavy 
growth  of  straw,  which  will  be  liable  to  rust, 
and  yield  less  grain.  The  best  practice  is  to 
apply  it  late  in  autumn,  simply  harrowing  it  in 
after  the  land  has  been  well  plowed.  By  spring 
it  is  -well  decomposed.  Where  it  is  desirable  to 
apply  the  manure  in  the  spring,  scrape  the  hog- 
yard  for  it  with  broad  hoes,  and  use  heaps  of 
fine  manure  previously  collected,  and  if  the  soil 
be  compact  and  heavy,  add  well-rotted  chip 
manure.  On  soils  in  which  there  is  a  great 
amount  of  vegetable  matter,  never  apply  any 
barn-yard  manure,  unless  it  has  been  thoroughly 
composted,  or  rotted.  On  land  where  there  is 
usually  a  great  growth  of  straw,  wood  ashes. 


either  leached  or  unleached,  applied  at  the  rate  | 
of  10  or  12  bushels  per  acre,  of  the  unleached,  | 
or  any  quantity  of  the  leached,  will  go  far  to 
correct  the  evil,  and  the  heads  will  be  belter  ’ 
filled,  and  the  kernels  plumper.  The  writer  1 
has  experienced  great  advantage  from  the  use  j 
of  liquid  manure,  especially  on  light  soil.  It 
was  pumped  into  a  large  hogshead,  on  a  stone- 
boat,  or  on  wheels,  at  the  barn-yard,  and  dis¬ 
tributed  from  a  trough  filled  with  small  holes. 

If  the  hogshead  be  on  wheels,  this  application 
may  be  made  any  time  before  the  grain  is  six 
inches  high,  and  always  gives  greater  stiffness  i 
of  the  straw,  and  increases  the  amount  of  grain. 

- »-• -  aai  - - 

Tie  Best  Large  Breed  of  Swine.  I 


Several  inquiries  have  been  received  from 
subscribers  as  to  what  are  the  best  hogs.  Per¬ 
haps  there  is  no  large  breed  that  will  'be  found 
superior,  or  even  equal  to  the  Chester  White, 
for  general  purposes.  Of  course  when  we  say 
Chester  White  swine,  we  mean  nothing  but 
that  breed  in  its  purity.  There  are  thousands 
of  swine  that  are  sold  at  exorbitant  prices  for 
Chester  Whites,  that  have  only  a  large  infusion 
of  the  Chester  White  blood.  We  would  not  bo 
understood  as  stating  that  such  swine  are  best 
for  farmers,  or  for  any  one.  The  Chester  Whites 
are  often  denounced  as  an  inferior  breed,  and  a 
common  complaint  is,  that  they  do  not  do  as  well 
as  they  did  a  few  years  ago.  The  fault  is  not  in 
the  swine,  but  in  their  management.  For  ex¬ 
ample,  a  man  procures  a  Chester  White  boar 
which  has  proved  himself  to  be  an  excellent 
animal  for  transmitting  his  good  points  to  his 
progeny  with  great  uniformity.  He  serves  a 
large  number  of  sows  which  possess  only  a  limit¬ 
ed  infusion  of  Chester  White  blood.  Their  pro¬ 
geny,  to  appearance,  may  be  in  every  respect 
equal  to  the  full  blood  Chester  Whites ;  and  they 
may  possess  fattening  qualities  quite  equal,  and 
sometimes  a  little  superior  to  the  Chester 
Whites.  Therefore,  as  farmers  reason  that 
“like  will  produce  like,”  they  breed  from  the 
best  specimens  of  this  grade,  and  they  find 
that  all  their  care  and  efforts  to  improve  their 
swine  by  breeding  from  such  animals,  carries 
them  farther  and  farther  every  year  from  the 
point  of  improvement  at  which  they  were  aim¬ 
ing.  This  failure  to  improve  the  breed,  when 
one  has  an  excellent  animal  to  begin  with,  has 
a  great  tendency  to  discourage  farmers  in  their 
efforts  to  render  good  swine  a  little  better. 

Breeding  In-and-in. — Nothing  is  more  common 
than  for  men  of  limited  experience  in  raising 
improved  stock  of  any  kind  to  attribute  every 
failure  to  breeding  in-and-in.  They  guess,  they 
think,  or  they  know,  that  such  a  fiiilure,  or  such 
a  development  of  form  in  a  young  animal,  is  in 
consequence  of  breeding  in-and-in,  when  the 
truth  in  the  fact  is,  they  know  nothing  at  all 
about  it.  Sometimes  the  dam  and  sire  are  both 
good  grade  animals,  but  their  offspring  will  sel¬ 
dom  be  equal  to  either  of  them  for  fattening 
purposes,  and  never  will  they  prove  to  be  as 
good  for  breeders.  Consequently,  the  numerous 
failures  in  raising  improved  stock  are  much 
more  attributable  to  breeding  from  grade  ani¬ 
mals  than  to  breeding  in-and-in.  A  grade  ani¬ 
mal  may  be  quite  as  profit.able  for  beef,  mutton, 
or  pork,  as  a  full-blooded  one,  but  they  are  not 
the  kind  for  breeders.  Those  who  attempt  to 
raise  improved  stock  of  any  kind  should  Ire 
careful  not  to  impute  the  development  of  certain 
bad  points  in  their  animals  to  in-and-in  breed¬ 
ing,  when  it  is  the  natural  and  certain  result  of 
breeding  from  animals  that  are  said  to  be  full- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RTCULTURIST. 


113 


■blooded,  when  really  they  are  nothing  but 
grades.  In-and-in  breeding  may  be  practised 
with  the  best  of  results,  with  proper  care ;  but 
breeding  from  grade  male  animals  never.  When¬ 
ever  possible  always  employ  well-bred  males. 


How  to  Plow  Cora  Groand. 


We  commend  to  onr  readers  a  practice  •which 
we  have  followed  with  great  satisfaction  in 
plowing  com  ground,  "vyhetlier  it  was  sod  or 
Btubble,  namely :  by  what  is  called  “  back-fur¬ 
rowing” — commencing  in  tlie  middle  of  the 
field,  turning  the  furrow’s  inward,  thus  plowing 
the  entire  field  “  geeing  round.”  Find  the  mid¬ 
dle  of  a  field  with  a  measuring  pale  or  tape  and 
set  a  stake.  Then  turn  a  ridge  of  two  furrows 
in  a  straight  line  from  each  corner  of  the  field 
to  the  stake.  These-ridges  %vill  enable  a  plow¬ 
man  to  do  bis  work  well  at  the  turning  points. 
The  advantages  of  plowing  in  this  manner  are, 
there  w'ill  be  no  dead  furrows  in  the  field.  A 
row  of  corn,  if  planted  in  a  dead  furrow  will 
not  amount  to  much,  except  for  fodder.  When 
a  field  is  plowed  in  lands,  the  soil  will  not  be 
thoroughly  broken  up  beneath  llie  ridges.  When 
a  field  is  plowed  by  going  around  the  outside 
and  finishing  in  the  middle,  there  will  be  a 
dead  furrow  from  each  corner  to  the  middle  of 
it.  The  team,  moreover,  must  turn  on  the 
plowed  ground,  which  ti'eads  down  a  wide  strip 
from  the  corners  to  the  middle  of  the  field. 
But  when  a  field  is  plowed  by  beginning  in  the 
middle,  the  entire  team,  whether  double  or  sin¬ 
gle,  always  turns  on  the  unplowed  ground,  and 
it  is  easier  for  the  plowman  to  turn  out  and  set 
in  his  plow  at  the  corners,  than  when  he  turns 
the  furrow  outward.  By  plowing  in  this  way, 
the  surface  will  be  kept  level,  and  the  -work 
performed  in  a  more  workmanlike  manner. 
In  order  to  have  every  side  of  the  field  fin¬ 
ish  alike,  measure  each  side  from  the  plowed 
ground  to  the  outside  of  the  field  every  day. 
Then  the  furrows  may  be  varied  in  width,  or 
omitted  on  one  side,  while  the  plowed  plot  is 
small.  Aim  always  to  keep  the  furrow  slices 
of  a  uniform  width. 

Broom  Corn. 

There  are  two  kinds  of  broom  corn,  dwarf 
and  tall.  Both  kinds  are  good,  but  no  well- 
conducted  experiments  within  our  knowledge 
have  proved  which  is  superior.  Many  think 
that  the  dwarf  is  most  profitable ;  while  others 
prefer  the  tall.  If  proper  care  be  taken  to  se¬ 
cure  good  seed,  there  will  be  but  little  difference 
ill  the  amount  and  quality  of  the  brush.  There 
is  much  bad  management  in  planting  half-ripen¬ 
ed  seed,  which  produces  weak  and  slender  brush 
fit  only  for  small  brooms.  Of  course,  all  such 
brush  will  lessen  the  value  of  the  crop ;  and  if 
the  common  careless  practice  of  saving  seed  be 
pursued  from  year  to  year,  an  increasing  pro¬ 
portion  of  the  brush  will  be  Inferior.  Good 
brush  is  long,  thick  and  uniform.  The  way  to 
secure  good  seed  is  to  tie  a  colored  string  to 
those  long  straight  panicles  that  begin  to  ripen 
first.  The  seed  of  these  should  be  kept  separ¬ 
ate  ;  and  before  planting  run  it  through  a  fan¬ 
ning  mill,  that  all  the  small,  light  seed  may  be 
blown  out.  By  adopting  this  practice  for  a  few 
years,  seed  may  be  obtained  that  will  mature 
earlier,  and  thus  probably  escape  early  frosts ; 
and  the  brush  will  be  prevailingly  thick,  lieavj', 
and  nearly  two  feet  in  length. 

The  soil  for  Broom  corn  should  be  prepared 
l-'jst  as  for  a  crop  of  Indian  corn.  As  the  plant 


is  very  slender,  the  seed  should  not  be  placed  too 
deep ;  the  soil  should  be  made  very  mellow, 
and  the  seed  put  in  freshly  stirred  soil.  The  best 
time  for  planting  is  immediately  after  Indian 
corn,  or  as  soon  as  the  ground  has  become 
thoroughly  warmed  and  trees  are  in  full  leaf. 
If  it  be  planted  too  early,  it  will  be  a  long  time 
coming  up,  and  weeds  and  grass  will  get  the 
start  of  it.  Barn-yard  manure  ought  to  be  ap¬ 
plied  a  year  beforehand,  as  much  rank  manure 
tends  to  make  a  coarse  brush.  The  seed  may 
be  planted  in  shallow  drills,  or  in  hills.  If  the 
soil  be  foul,  it  is  usual  to  plant  in  bills,  so  that 
the  horse-lioe  may  be  worked  both  ways,  to 
save  hand  hoeing.  But  if  the  soil  be  free  from 
weeds,  much  more  broom  corn  will  be  produced 
if  planted  in  drills.  In  bills,  six  stalks  are 
enough,  as  they  will  yield  better  brush  than  a 
larger  number.  If  in  drills,  the  stalks  may  be 
four,  five,  or  si.x  inches  apart.  When  the  dwarf 
broom  corn  is  planted,  the  drills  may  be  about 
two  feet  six  inches  apart.  But  for  the  tall 
kind,  they  should  be  not  less  than  three  feet,  or 
three  and  a  half  feet  apart.  Let  it  receive  the 
same— level — cultivation  as  is  given  to  Indian 
corn.  Directions  for  the  securing  and  manage¬ 
ment  of  the  crop  will  be  given  at  a  future  time. 


Eaising'  Chickens— A  Word  in  Season. 

Last  year  the  subject  of  gapes,  especially  the 
method  of  curing  the  disease  %vas  a  good  deal 
discussed  in  tliis  journal.  There  is  no  doubt 
but  the  ailment  comes  from  little  worms,  the 
larvfE  of  some  fly  or  other  insect,  which  are 
found  in  considerable  numbers  in  the  throats  of 
the  chickens  and  cause  their  death.  These 
flies  or  insects  no  doubt  abound  about  fowl 
bouses  and  yards,  so  that  keeping  the  chickens 
in  places  which  fowls  do  not  frequent,  and  where 
they  have  not  before  been  kept,  goes  far  toward 
protecting  them  from  the  evil.  A  correspondent 
“  Coxsackie,”  writes  as  follows :  “  About  a  year 
ago  I  communicated  to  the  Agriculturist  a  certain 
mode  of  treating  chickens,  to  prevent  gapes. 
Since  that  time  I  have  seen  various  modes  sta¬ 
ted  toatrsthe  ailment.  Now,  Mr.  Editor,  I  in¬ 
sist  upon  it  that  ‘an  ounce  of  prevention  is  bet¬ 
ter  than  a  pound  of  cure.’  There  is  no  need  of 
having  gapes  at  all.  Last  year  I  raised  nearly 
one  hundred  chickens,  and  had  not  a  sign  of 
gapes  among  them.  My  method  is  as  follows ; 
When  the  chickens  are  in  condition  to  take 
from  the  nest,  I  put  them  with  the  hen  in  a  coop 
with  a  board  bottom,  so  as  to  keep  the  young 
ones  from  the  cold  and  damp  ground.  They  are 
fed  with  Indian  meal  on  which  boiling  water 
is  poured  from  the  teakettle,  well  stirred  and  al¬ 
lowed  to  cool.  I  believe  the  whole  secret  is  to 
keep  the  chickens  dry  and  warm  when  quite 
young,  and  give  them  cooked  feed.” 

How  Much  Hay  Will  Cattle  Eat? 


There  has  been  a  vast  amount  written  on  the 
above  subject,  -which  has  tended  to  mislead, 
rather  than  to  instruct.  Some  writers  have  en¬ 
deavored  to  fix  a  certain  number  of  pounds  as 
the  usual  standard  that  a  cow  or  a  bullock  will 
ordinarily  consume.  But  some  cows,  as  well  as 
some  bullocks,  will  require  twice  as  much, 
daily,  as  others.  Ordinarily,  a  good-sized  cow 
will  need  about  twenty  pounds  of  hay  per 
day,  w’hcn  she  has  a  supply  of  roots,  or  is 
“slopped.”  Some  cows  will  consume  thirty 
pounds,  and  some  oxen  will  eat  even  more  than 
that  amount.  With  yearlings  and  calves,  the 
amount  will  vary,  jost  in  proportion  to  the  size 


and  feeding  condition  of  the  animal.  This  is 
the  writer’s  own  experience. 

S.  S.  Whitman  writes  to  the  Country  Gentle¬ 
man  that:  For  several  years  he  kejit  cows,  and 
sold  the  milk ;  and  much  of  the  hay  fed  to 
them  was  purchased  by  the  ton.  He  often  noted 
the  quantity,  and  the  time  of  consuming  it,  and 
it  varied  so  little  from  twenty  pounds  each  j)er 
day,  that  he  fixed  on  that  number  of  pounds  as 
the  necessary  daily  amount  of  hay  for  a  cow, 
in  addition  to  slops  sufficient  to  supply  the 
ordinary  draught  made  upon  them  by  milking. 
John  Johnston — whose  authority  is  often 
quoted  as  final  on  such  subjects — says:  “It  is 
ail  nonsense  to  talk  of  those  Hobenheim  oxen 
eating  sixty-six  pounds  of  hay  per  day!  It 
must  be  different  hay  from  any  that  I  ever  saw, 
if  they  would  eat  half  that  amount.  Twenty 
pounds  per  day  would  satisfy  any  cattle  that  I 
ever  have  fed.” — The  quality  of  the  hay  will 
also  make  a  difference  in  the  amount.  It 
the  grass  were  not  cut  until  the  seed  had  well 
malured,  the  hay  would  not  of  course  be  so 
palatable  as  though  it  had  been  mowed  when  k 
•was  in  full  bloom.  A  cow’,  or  bullock,  tliero- 
fore,  will  consume  several  pounds  more  of  good 
bay  than  of  poor  bay,  on  the  same  principle 
that  a  man  rvill  eat  more  good  beef  than  poor. 
Nevertheless,  the  amount  that  an  animal  needs 
depends  upon  the  demands  made  upon  its  diges¬ 
tive  organs,  dependent  upon  its  size  (weight), 
the  demands  made  upon  it  for  labor,  for  milk, 
in  parturition,  etc.,  and  to  sustain  its  animal 
heat — an  animal  exposed  to  the  weather  eating 
more  than  one  stabled  and  warm. 


WarWes  in  Heat  Cattle. 


Several  subscribers  to  the  Agriculturist  have 
inquired  as  to  the  cause  of,  and  manner  of  treat¬ 
ing  this  affection,  which  is  common  to  neat 
cattle.  When  'we  pass  the  hand  along  the  back 
of  some  cows,  bullocks,  oxen,  and,  in  some  in¬ 
stances,  yearlings,  w’e  feel  numerous  little 
bunches  upon  the  back.  Tliis  is  called  “the 
warbles,”  and  cattle  in  the  best  condition  are  no 
more  exempt  from  it  than  those  that  are  very 
poor.  The  word  “  •ft’arbles”  is  applied  also  to 
hard  lumps  which  form  in  the  skin  under  the 
saddle  of  horses.  A  correspondent,  who  has 
been  familiar  with  the  warbles  for  thirty  years, 
and  says  he  has  never  known  neat  cattle  to  ex 
perience  any  serious  harm  from  them,  writes ; 
“  No  doubt  every  observing  farmer  lias  noticed 
that,  during  the  months  of  July  and  August  in 
our  latitude,  neat  cattle  are  much  annoyed  by 
the  stings  of  a  large,  dark-colored  fly,  called  the 
Gad  Fly  {(Estrus  Bovis),  which  will  often  light 
on  the  backs  of  cattle,  and  put  the  whole  herd 
on  a  gallop ;  and  sometimes  they  will  drop  on 
the  backs  of  oxen  and  horses,  -while  at  work, 
and,  in  a  moment  of  time,  render  them  as  un- 
managable  as  if  they  had  disturbed  a  hornet’s 
nest.  This  Gad  Ply  punctures  the  skin  of  the 
animal — fat  animals  are  better  than  lean  ones — 
and  deposites  an  egg,  which  produces  a  maggot 
that  continues  to  grow  for  nearly  a  year  in 
the  flesh  of  the  animal,  when  it  emerges  through 
the  skin  and  falls  to  the  ground,  secretes  it¬ 
self  beneath  some  protection,  and,  in  a  few 
days,  commences  its  attacks  on  the  cattle. 

During  the  months  of  April,  May,  and  June, 
In  our  latitude,  these  bunches  on  the  backs  of 
cattle  will  continue  to  enlarge,  until  the  black 
liead  of  a  large  grub  will  have  worked  its  way 
through  the  skin  of  the  animal’s  back.  In  this 
condition  they  will  live  and  develope  them¬ 
selves  for  several  weeks,  with  their  black  beadi 


114r 


axvierican  agriculturist. 


fApKn. 


just  protruding  througli  the  skin.  I  have  seen 
hundreds  of  tliem  on  the  back  of  a  single  ani¬ 
mal  ;  and  I  have  seen  leather  that  was  made  of 
the  skin  of  an  animal  that  was  afflicted  with 
the  warbles,  that  appeared  like  perforated  tin. 
My  opinion  always  has  been,  that  such  maggots 
— to  say  nothing  of  the  great  ann03atnce  by  the 
severe  bites  of  the  flies — are  quite  as  injurious 
as  lice.  My  practice  always  was  to  kill  every 
Gad  Fly,  if  possible,  as  soon  as  I  would  a  snake. 
Then,  the  backs  of  my  cattle  were  carded  fre¬ 
quently,  and  as  soon  as  a  maggot’s  head  ap¬ 
peared  through  the  skin,  it  was  drawn  out 
with  a  pair  of  tweezers.  In  warm  weather, 
when  cattle  were  not  handled  much,  we  would 
thrust  a  needle  into  the  heads  of  the  maggots, 
before  they  had  worked  through  the  skin.  Gad 
Flies  are  usually  not  very  numerous;  therefore, 
if  a  little  pains  be  taken  to  kill  every  one,  and 
if  the  maggots  are  all  destroyed  before  they 
leave  the  cattle,  they  will  not  be  a  source  of 
serious  inconvenience  to  them.  In  case  maggots 
are  removed  in  wet  and  cold  weather,  the  ani¬ 
mals  should  be  protected  fi'om  cold  storms,  be¬ 
cause  it  might  prove  injurious,  if  much  rain 
were  to  fall  before  the  deep  holes  close,  from 
which  grubs  had  been  withdrawn.  S.  E.  T. 


Spaying  Cows. 

This  delicate  operation  may  be  successfully 
performed  by  any  man  of  nerve  and  caution. 
The  best  time  is  within  six  weeks  after  calving. 
It  is  necessary  to  study  carefully  the  relation  of 
the  parts,  and  the  feeling  of  the  ovaries  in  place, 
in  a  slaughtered  animal ;  and  well,  also,  to 
practice  the  administration  of  chloroform,  till 
liimiliarily  M’ith  this  desirable  preliminary  is 
jfained.  The  cow  must  be  firmly  held,  so  that 
she  will  stand,  if  possible,  and  should  have  fast¬ 
ed  twenty-four  hours.  The  incision  is  made  in 
the  loin,  just  in  front  of  the  haunch.  Such 
incisions,  where  the  skin  is  loose,  are  made  by 
first  shaving  off  the  hair,  an  inch  or  more  wide, 
on  the  line  of  the  proposed  cut ;  then  making 
a  fold  of  the  skin,  at  right  angles  to  and  across 
the  middle  of  the  shaved  place,  the  operator 
grasps  this  in  his  left  hand,  on  one  side  of  the 
line,  and  gives  into  the  right  hand  of  an  assist¬ 
ant  a  similar  grip  of  the  fold  on  the  other  side, 
leaving  the  shaved  line  exposed.  Then  a  quick, 
strong  stroke  with  a  sharp  knife  across  the  fold 
will,  if  properly  directed,  make  an  opening 
through  the  hide  of  about  the  right  length 
(five  inches),  clean  and  true.  Should  an  arteiy, 
or  large  vein,  be  cut,  it  must  be  taken  up 
(the  end  found,  drawn  out  and  tied  with  a 
thread),  or,  if  a  small  one,  twisted  up  so  as  to 
stop  the  flow  of  blood.  Cutting  through  into 
the  cavity  of  the  abdomen,  the  hand  is  intro¬ 
duced,  and  the  ovaries  felt  for,  found,  and 
worked  off  with  a  strong  thumb  nail.  A  “  steel 
thumb-nail”  is  sometimes  used  to  advantage. 
Care  should  of  course  be  taken  not  to  tear  the 
parts,  nor  to  make  the  incision  too  large,  nor 
too  low.  If  too  low,  the  contents  of  the 
abdomen  will  interfere.  So,  also,  if  the  intes¬ 
tines  are  full,  they  will  fill  up  the  abdominal 
cavity,  and  seriously  embarrass  the  operation. 
When  the  ovaries  are  removed,  the  wound  is 
(viped  with  a  damp  cloth,  and  closed  with 
lutures — which  are  single  tied  stitches.  Stout 
linen  thread  is  used,  well  tallowed,  and  a  curved 
sail-needle,  new  and  bright.  The  sutures  are 
placed  an  inch  and  a  half  to  two  inches  apart, 
and  tied  loosely,  only  so  as  to  bring  the  lips  of 
the  wound  together ;  tin  y  will  swell  so  as  to 
close  perfectl}'.  It  is  well  to  leave  the  lower 


part  of  the  w'ound  sufficiently  open  to  allow 
pus  to  discharge  freely,  and  always  encourage 
the  wound  to  heal  from  the  top  downward,  for 
the  same  reason.  Protect  with  a  greased  linen 
cloth  laid  over  the  wound,  and  a  blanket  or 
sheet,  according  to  the  weather.  The  cow 
should  be  kept  stabled,  and  her  diet  should  be 
simple,  and  loosening  rather  than  heating,  con¬ 
sisting  of  roots,  with  cut  and  soaked  haj’,  or 
cut  grass  in  the  spring,  and  with  a  warm,  thin 
mash  of  wheat  bran  now  and  then,  perhaps. 


A  Cheap  Stump  Machine. 


Inquiries  are  made  for  “  a  cheap  stump  ma¬ 
chine,  such  as  a  farmer  can  make  with  the  ex¬ 
penditure  of  a  few  dollars,  and  with  which  he 
can  extract  stumps  that  a  yoke  of  oxen  can  not 
remove  with  a  straight  pull.”  The  accompany¬ 
ing  illustration  represents  a  very  convenient  and 
efficient  stump  puller,  for  such  stumps  as  are  not 
very  firmly  rooted,  and  especially  for  those  of 
which  the  small  roots  have  decayed.  It  will  be 
seen  by  the  engraving  that  a  strong  chain  is 
first  placed  around  the  stump,  with  a  rolling 
hitch,  and  the  other  end  is  then  fastened  to  the 
lai-ge  end  of  a  stiff  pole,  20  or  30  feet  long,  and 
a  team  is  hitched  to  the  small  end,  and  driven 
in  a  circle  around  the  stump  until  it  is  turned 
or  twisted  entirely  loose.  About  the  only  ex¬ 
pense  of  such  a  stump  puller  will  be  a  strong 
chain,  with  two  very  heavy  hooks.  When  the 
stump  is  a  small  one,  let  the  chain  be  passed 
twice  or  thrice  around  it,  before  it  is  hitched  to 
the  pole.  By  cutting  off  a  portion  of  the  large 
lateral  roots,  a  green  tree  of  large  size  may  be 
uprooted  in  a  short  time,  especially  where  the 
principal  roots  do  not  strike  very  deeply. 

For  such  heavy  work  very  strong  hooks  are 
required,  as  they  will  usually  break  first.  A 
large  hook  of  the  best  form  which  will  be  equal¬ 
ly  as  strong  as  the  chain,  is  shown  in  the  illus¬ 
tration.  But  very  few  blacksmiths  know  how 
to  make  a  good  hook.  Procure  a  bar  of  the 
best  Swede’s  iron,  one  inch  thick  by  two  and 
a  half  inches  wide,  and  draw  the  end  to  as  short 
a  point  as  can  be  made,  and  admit  a  bending 
of  the  right  shape ;  and  make  the  inside  circle 
of  the  hook  just  large  enough  to  hook  on  to  the 
middle  of  the  chain.  Bevel  off  the  back  side 
of  the  hook  at  the  widest  place  so  that  it  will 
be  not  less  than  three  inches  wide  where  the 
greatest  strain  comes.  Hooks  usually  break  a 
little  beyond  the  middle  of  the  turn  towards  the 
eye;  here  they  should  be  wide  and  strong. 


Orchard  Grass. — (DactyUs  glomerata.) 


The  excellence  of  Orchard  Grass,  both  foi 
grazing  and  for  hay,  has  not  only  been  very 
much  underrated,  but  a  gre.at  many  farmers 
do  not  even  know  the  grass  when  they  meet 
with  it.  In  the  Agriculturist  for  March,  figures 
and  descriptions  were  given  which  will  enable 
any  careful  observer  to  recognize  this  species, 
In  some  localities,  good  farmers  esteem  it  as 
superior  to  almost  any  other  grass.  Wherever 
Red  Clover  and  Timothy  flourish  well.  Orchard 
Grass  will  not  fail  to  be  most  luxuriant.  As 
Orchard  Grass  will  mature  about  the  same  time 
with  early  Red  Clover,  we  have  always  fonxid  it 
very  much  superior  to  Timothy  {Phleum  praiense) 
to  sow  with  clover,  whether  for  grazing,  for 
feeding  green  as  soon  as  large  enough  to  mow, 
or  for  early  hay.  For  a  number  of  years  the 
writer  has  tried  various  kinds  of  grasses,  in 
Central  New-York,  to  obtain  such  as  would 
afford  early  pasture,  as  well  as  excellent  hay, 
and  has  found  that  Orchard  Grass  and  early 
Red  Clover,  when  sown  in  about  equal  quanti¬ 
ties,  would  always  be  fit  for  jiasture,  or  for 
mowing,  from  eight  to  twelve  days  earlier  than 
any  other  mixture  experimented  with.  It  is  nu¬ 
tritious,  well  adapted  to  all  soils  that  will  pro¬ 
duce  good  crops  of  cereals,  and  in  orchards,  or 
shaded  fields,  it  is  superior  to  anj'  other  grass 
that  we  are  familiar  with.  When  farmers  wish 
to  feed  a  few  bullocks  for  early  beef  in  spring, 
or  wrethers,  or  dry  ewes,  for  early  mutton,  it 
the  soil  be  not  wet,  and  is  in  a  good  state  of  fer¬ 
tility,  and  the  Orchard  Grass  and  Red  Clover 
have  not  been  eaten  off  late  in  autumn,  it  will 
be  fit  to  graze  very  early,  besides  which,  tw'o 
good  crops  may  be  mowed  in  a  season,  and  it 
will  also  furnish  much  fall  feed  in  addition. 

Another  consideration  in  fixvor  of  Orchard 
Grass  is,  it  will  endure  the  drouth  of  summer 
with  much  less  injury  than  almost  any  other 
kind  of  grass.  When  Timothy  has  ceased  to 
grow,  Orchard  Grass  will  continue  to  send  up 
new  spires  until  the  moisture  of  the  soil  ap¬ 
pears  to  be  entirely  exhausted.  As  Orchard 
Grass  is  disposed  to  grow  in  tussocks,  if  it 
be  sow’ed  alone  there  wdll  often  be  spots  of  bare 
ground  betw'een  the  tussocks.  But,  if  some 
Kentucky  Blue  Grass  seed  and  Red  Clover  be 
sowed,  the  entire  soil  will  soon  be  covered 
with  a  swarth  turf,  and  the  quality  of  the 
Orchard  Grass  will  be  much  better. 

In  some  parts  of  the  country,  there  exists 
more  or  less  prejudice  against  Orchard  grass, 
for  both  pasture  and  hay,  on  account  of  its 
coarseness.  But  this  is  the  fault  of  the  farmer, 
not  of  the  grass.  If  the  soil  is  kept  in  a  go('d 
state  of  fertility,  and  there  is  not  an  excess  of 
water  in  it,  and  Kentucky  Blue  Grass  and  Red 
Clover  be  sowed  with  it,  the  Orchard  Grass  will 
not  grow  so  rank  and  coarse. 


As  Dunn  as  a  Hoe. — Why  should  the  hoe 
be  made  the  whipping  post  for  so  many  blunt- 
edged  scythes,  axes,  knives,  and  other  tools? 
As  dull  as  a  hoe  !  Many  a  farmer  works  the 
j'car  through  with  a  hoe  whose  edge  is  thick<  r 
than  an  old-fashioned  copper,  when  a  few  min¬ 
utes  turning  of  the  grindstone  would  put  it  in 
good  working  order.  A  sharp  hoe  saves  tiiiie 
and  strength,  and  does  one’s  work  better  than  a 
dull  one.  No  farmer  will  mow  ordinarily 
longer  than  a  day,  without  grinding  his  scythe; 
why  not  alwaj's  keep  an  edge  alsf»  upon  the  hoe  ? 

- - - - 

It  behoves  us  to  ever  pay  respect  to  old  age, 
because  we  are  all  desirous  of  attaining  to  it 


1865.1 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


115 


Fig.  9.— SWEET-SCENTED  VERNAL  GRASS. 


Talks  About  Grass . III. 


In  the  article  last  month  upon  Orchard  and 
Kentucky  Blue  Grass,  some  practical  remarks 
upon  their  culture  were  promised.  These  are 
given  elsewhere  in  separate  articles.  One  grass 
chosen  for  description,  at  the  present  time,  is 
the  Sweet-scented  Vernal  Grass — Anthoxanihum 
odoratum.  This  can  hardly  be  called  a  valuable 
grass,  3’^et  it  is  one  wc  would  not  willingly  do 
without,  as  it  is  this  which  fills  the  air  with 
fragrance,  when  “  The  ripe  harvest  of  the  new- 
mown  hay  gives  it  a  sweet  and  wholesome  odor.” 

It  is  a  grass  which  readily  “  comes  in  ”  upon 
meadow's,  and  growing  here  and  there  in  tufts, 
imparts  its  peculiar  odor  to  the  hay  with  which 
it  is  cured.  It  has  a  perennial  root,  and  its 
foliage  appears  very  early  in  spring.  The  en¬ 
graving,  fig.  9,  shows  the  manner  of  flowering, 
the  flow'ers  forming  a  loose  spike,  appearing 
in  May.  When  the  structure  of  tlie  flowers  or 
spikelets  is  exam.ned,  it  will  be  found  to  be 
quite  different  from  that  of  either  of  the  grasses 
already  described  in  these  articles.  In  fig.  10,  a 
magnified  spikelet  is  shown  at  the  top  of  the 
figure,  and  below  its  parts  are  shown  separate 
and  still  more  enlarged.  The  glumes,  a,  h,  are 
as  in  the  other  figures ;  within  these  are  a  couple 
of  empty  palese,  c,  d,  without  any  stamens  or 
pistils  within  them,  and  each  furnished  with  a 
long  bristle  or  awn ;  above  these  are  shown  two 
paleee,  e,  /,  of  a  difiTerent  shape,  which  enclose 
the  stamens  and  pistil,  g,  h.  Comparing  this 
with  the  enlarged  figure  of  the  Orchard  grass 
(fig.  6  of  last  month),  it  will  be  seen  that  it  is  a 
three-flowered  grass,  of  which  only  one  flower, 
the  central  one,  is  perfect,  i.  e.,  bears  stamens, 
and  pistil,  while  the  side  flow'ers,  c,  d,  fig.  10, 
are  abortive,  and  each  reduced  to  a  single  empty 
palea.  This  grass  does  not  find  mueh  favor 
among  our  farmers,  but  in  England  it  is  valued 
to  tdz  with  other  grasses  for  pasturage,  both  on 


account  of  its  earliness  and  the  late  feed  it  fur¬ 
nishes  in  deep,  moist  soils.  It  has  been  asserted 
tliat  the  high  flavor  of  the  butter  produced  in 
certain  locali¬ 
ties  is  due  to 
the  abundance 
of  the  Vernal 
Grass.  The  pe¬ 
culiar  vanilla¬ 
like  odor  is  most 
perceptible  if 
tbe  grass  be  a 
little  wilted.  In 
some  parts  of 
theW est,  where 
this  grass  has 
not  made  its 
way,  we  have 
noticed  that  the 
hay  fields  are 
quite  without 
the  delightful 
fragrance  that 
they  have  in 
older  parts  of 
the  countiy.  It 
is  the  odor,  as 
well  as  the  car-  Fig.  10. — spikelet  of  fig.  9. 
liness  of  the  grass,  which  gives  the  popular 
name  of  Sweet-scented  Vernal  Grass.  The  name 
Anthoxanihum  is  from  the  Greek,  meaning  “flow¬ 
er  of  flowers,”  while  the  application  of  the 
specific  name,  odoratum,  is  sufficiently  obvious. 

•  Another  grass  often  seen  in  our  fields  may  be 
noticed  here,  as,  like  the  Sweet-scented  Vernal 
Grass,  it  becomes  readily  introduced.  It  is  the 
Velvet  Grass,  or  Meadow  Soft-Grass  (Eolcus 
lanatm),  which  is  readily  distinguished  by  the 
velvety  character  of  its  stem  and  leaves,  and 
the  very  pale  and  whitish  color  of  its  flower 


clusters.  The  general  appearance  of  this  grass 
is  shown  in  fig.  H.  When  the  spikelets  are  ex¬ 


amined,  they  are  found  to  be  two-flowered ;  the 
lower  flower  having  both  pistil  and  stamens, 
while  the  upper  one  is  imperfeet,  producing 
stamens  only.  The  lower  palea  of  the  upper 
flower  bears  a  short  arrm  or  bristle.  This  grass 
is  very  little  eaten  by  cattle,  and  it  is  usually 
regarded  as  a  worthless  intruder.  It  is  said  to 
be  valued  in  some  of  the  Southern  States,  where 
good  grasses  are  exceedingly  scarce,  but  no 
Northern  farmer  would  think  of  cultivating  it. 


Kentucky  Blue  Grass.— Culture. 


This  kind  of  grass  flourishes  well  in  all  our 
grain  growing  regions;  and  in  man}'  places 
where  the  soil  is  better  adapted  to  dairying  than 
raising  grain,  Kentucky  Blue  Grass  has  no  suc¬ 
cessful  rival,  except  where  there  is  an  excess  of 
moisture  in  the  soil.  On  tbe  table  lands  and 
river  bottoms  of  Central  and  Western  New- 
York,  and  on  the  wheal  soils  of  Ohio  and  other 
Western  States,  where  the  land  has  been  under¬ 
drained,  or  is  naturally  dry  enough  for  raising 
good  crops  of  grain,  this  grass  grows  luxuriant¬ 
ly.  On  the  slopes  of  the  Lakes  in  the  State  ot 
New  York,  it  grows  well ;  and  where  the  soil  is 
naturally  fertile,  it  will  take  complete  possession 
as  soon  as  the  timber  is  removed.  Where  the  tim¬ 
ber  is  tall,  and  there  is  little  shrubbery  and  under¬ 
brush  in  the  woods,  Kentucky  Blue  Grass  often 
forms  a  beautiful  tender  turf  all  over  the  forest. 
In  those  grain-growing  localities  where  a  crop  of 
Red  Clover  constitutes  one  of  a  four,  or  five  years’ 
rotation,  this  grass  is  sometimes  a  little  trouble¬ 
some,  as  it  will  often  supplant  a  large  proportion 
of  the  Red  Clover;  and  when  Indian  corn,  pota¬ 
toes,  or  other  root  crops  are  grown  in  such 
fields,  the  Kentuckj'  Blue  Grass  will  often  spring 
up  in  a  few  days  and  cover  the  surface  of  the 
ground.  But  if  it  be  not  allowed  to  cast  its  seed, 
and  the  soil  is  cultivated  every  j'ear,  it  will  be 
no  more  troublesome  than  Red-top  or  Timothy. 

The  chief  excellencies  of  the  Kentucky  Blue 
Grass  are ;  it  starts  veiy  early  in  the  spring,  thus 
affording  early  pasture ;  it  will  grow  very  rap¬ 
idly  after  it  has  been  grazed  off ;  it  will  furnish 
more  late  fall  feed  than  most  other  grasses ;  and 
it  is  better  than  almost  any  other  grass  to  sow 
with  either  Red  or  White  Clover  and  Orchard 
Grass,  for  forming  a  good  sod,  which  is  so  desir¬ 
able  in  pasture  fields,  especially  where  heavy 
animals  are  allowed  to  graze.  It  will  not 
flourish  as  luxuriantly  on  our  heavy  clay  soils, 
as  it  will  on  light  soils;  and  we  would  not 
recommend  it  as  a  good  grass  for  heavy  soils, 
except  when  the  object  is  early  pasture  or  early 
hay ;  and  even  then  it  should  be  sowed  with 
clover  and  Orchard  Grass.  When  it  is  de¬ 
signed  for  hay  it  should  always  be  mow¬ 
ed  early  before  the  seed  has  matured,  as  the 
seed  stalks  will  be  very  wiry  and  tough  if  they 
are  not  cut  while  they  are  quite  green.  In  case 
a  field  is  to  be  pastured,  it  is  important  to  graze 
it  off  early  in  the  former  part  of  the  season,  and 
not  allow  it  to  grow  large  before  stock  are  turned 
on  it.  Kentucky  Blue  Grass  is  very  nutritious. 
All  kinds  of  stock  like  it  well,  and  it  will  afford 
a  large  amount  of  good  pasture  if  it  receive 
the  proper  management.  For  hay,  Timothy  is 
much  superior  to  this  grass,  especially  for  mark¬ 
et.  Where  the  soil  is  not  wet,  and  is  in  a  good 
state  of  fertilitj',  and  grass  is  desired  for  dairy 
purposes,  it  is  probable  no  other  pasture  will 
yield  a  larger  quantity  of  butter  and  cheese, 
than  Kentucky  Blue  Grass  and  Red  and  White 
Clover,  with  the  addition  of  Orchard  Grass. 
Thickly  seeded,  and  kept  closely  mowed,  this 
grass  is  almost  unsurpassed  for  the  lawn. 


1  V(> 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[AprUi, 


Tim  Bunker  on  “  Striking  He.” 

“  Have  you  hee’rn  the  news,  ’Squire  Bunker  ?  ” 
asked  Jake  Frink,  as  lie  came  into  our  house 
last  evening,  after  a  long  absence. 

You  see  Jake  has  been  mighty  shy  of  our 
house  ever  since  my  trip  to  Washington,  and  the 
upsetting  of  his  light-house,  etc.  It  took  some 
great  excitement  like  the  present  oil  fever  to 
bring  him  round. 

“  No,  I  haven’t.  It  is  the  latest  news,  neigh¬ 
bor  Frink,  to  see  j'ou  here.  You’re  welcome.” 

“  Wal,”  says  Jake,  “  they  du  say  that  Deacon 
Smith  has  made  five  thousand  dollars  on  ile 
within  the  last  few  weeks.” 

“And  how  did  that  happen?” 

“It  didn’t  happen  at  all.  He  made  it  by 
speculation  in  ile  stocks.  Ye  see,  he  and  a 
few  men  in  Wall-street  bought  a  lot  of  land  for 
forty  thousand  dollars,  and  then  bought  an  ile 
well,  jest  to  sweeten  it,  and  sold  out  sheers  enuff 
to  come  to  a  quarter  of  a  million,  and  talked 
about  a  working  capital  of  a  hundred  thousand 
dollars,  and  all  the  work  that  capital  did  was 
jest  tu  work  money  intu  their  own  pockets, 
and  the  Deacon’s  share  of  the  spiles  was  live 
thousand  dollars.  I  guess  I  shall  want  to  hear 
the  Deacon  pray  arter  this !  ” 

“Hear  him  pray !”  exclamed  Sally,  taking  off 
her  gold-bowed  spectacles.  “Little  chance  of 
that,  Jake,  for  you  haven’t  been  inside  of  a 
meeting  house  in  a  j’-ear.” 

Jake  did  not  heed  that  shot,  but  proceeded. 

“Now  I  should  like  to  know,  Squire  Bunker, 
whether  there  is  anything  in  this  ile  business,  or 
whether  it  is  all  bosh.  Did  you  see  any  ile 
when  you  was  in  the  city  ?  ” 

“  Lots  of  it,  neighbor  Frink,  and  heard  a  great 
deal  more  than  I  saw.  There  is  no  kind  of 
doubt  that  the  bowels  of  the  earth  is  full  of  ile.” 

“  And  do  you  suppose,  Timothy,  it  is  prepared 
for  the  great  conflagration  of  which  the  Bible 
speaks?”  interrupted  Mrs.  Bunker. 

“I  couldn’t  say  as  tc  that.  I  guess  it  will 
light  up  a  good  many  parlors  and  kitchens  be¬ 
fore  :t  will  help  burn  up  the  world.  You’d  be 
astonished  to  see  the  quantity  that  comes  into 
the  city  from  the  West,  and  the  quantity  that 
goes  out  of  it  to  the  East.  Why,  what  a  change 
it  has  made  in  all  our  houses !  Just  think  of 
the  different  sorts  of  lights  we  have  had  since 
we  went  to  housekeeping.  Tallow  candles, 
with  tow  wicks  that  you  used  to  spin  from  the 
tow  from  my  hatchel,  dipped  in  tallow  about 
Christmas;  then  candles  with  cotton  wicks, 
and  run  in  moulds,  six  in  a  bunch ;  then  whale 
oil  lamps;  then  camphene  and  burning  fluid, 
and  lastly,  kerosene,  the  best  of  all.” 

“  Da  tell  if  kerosene  is  the  same  thing  that 
comes  out  of  the  ile  wells?  I  thought  they 
called  it  ketrolum,  or  some  sich  name.” 

“  That  is  it,  neighbor  Frink,  only  kerosene  is 
Petroleum,  after  it  is  purified  at  the  factories.” 

“Wall  neow,  du  ye  think  there  is  any  chance 
tor  me  to  make  money  easy  in  these  ile  compa¬ 
nies?” 

“  I  shall  have  to  say  yes  and  no  according  to 
circumstances;  just  as  I  would  say  about  gold 
mining.  There  is,  no  doubt,  plenty  of  gold  in 
California,  Idaho,  and  the  Rocky  Mountains  in 
general.  But  it  is  my  private  opinion,  that  if 
all  the  money  and  labor  expended  in  those  re¬ 
gions  had  been  applied  to  the  soil  in  regular 
farming,  or  other  common  industrial  pursuits, 
they  would  have  produced  more  property  and 
more  happiness  than  can  be  found  in  those 
countries  now.  A  few  lucky  adventurers  have 
made  fortunes,  but  the  most  who  have  gone 


thither  have  either  failed,  or  got  a  bare  support. 
Thousands  upon  thousands  have  lost  capital 
and  labor,  and  life  itself,  in  the  vain  pursuit  of 
sudden  riches.” 

“  I’m  sorry  to  hear  you  talk  so.  Squire.  Ye 
see  I  have  tried  the  plan  of  slow  riches  for 
more  ’n  forty  years,  and  it’s  no  go.  I’ve  dug 
airly  and  late,  and  stuck  tew  my  business  as 
close  as  the  next  man,  and  I  aint  out  of  debt 
}'it.  And  now  if  you  say  there  is  no  chance 
for  sudden  riches,  I  am  done  for.” 

“Perhaps  if  you  had  stuck  to  the  fiirm  more 
and  to  the  bottle  less,  the  result  might  have  been 
different.” — “  I  don’t  see  that,”  said  Jake,  gruffly. 

“  Well,  your  neighbors  do,  and  it  is  no  use  to 
try  to  shift  off  the  faults  of  the  man  upon  the 
farm,  or  the  business  of  farming.  Nothing  pays 
better  in  the  long  run.  There  is  money  in  ile, 
just  as  there  is  in  gold,  only  the  ile  business  is 
not  quite  so  risky.  To  those  wdio  know  the 
ropes,  I  suppose  there  isn’t  any  risk  at  all.  The 
men  who  buy  the  land,  and  get  up  the  compan¬ 
ies,  as  a  rule,  make  money.  In  the  present 
fever  heat  of  the  business,  there  is  no  trouble 
about  selling  shares,  and  they  mean  to  sell 
enough  to  pay  for  the  land,  and  line  their  own 
pockets,  whether  they  ever  strike  a  drop  of  ile 
or  not.  If  they  are  fortunate  enough  to  strike 
ile,  they  make  a  good  thing  for  their  sharehold¬ 
ers.  If  they  do  not,  their  stock  is  not  worth  a 
chaw  of  tobacco.  They  do  not  tell  that  it  costs 
four  or  five  thousand  dollars  to  sink  a  well,  and 
that  thousands  of  these  wells  are  bored  without 
ever  returning  a  red  cent  for  the  labor.  They 
do  not  tell  how  many  wells  yield  lots  at  first, 
and,  after  a  while,  ‘  kind  o’  gin  out,’  like  the 
Padd3'’s  calf.  And  what  is  a  hundred  acres  of 
land  worth,  with  a  dozen  dry  wells  on  it?” 

It  is  astonishing,  Mr.  Editor,  to  see  how  crazy 
people  are  getting  on  this  subject.  The  Multi- 
caulis  fever,  thirty  years  ago,  wan’t  a  priming  to 
this.  When  I  went  through  your  city  a  few 
weeks  ago,  I  did  not  hear  much  of  any  thing 
else  talked  about.  The  war  was  nowhere; 
dry  goods  didn’t  amount  to  much,  and  I  could’nt 
get  even  a  butcher  to  talk  of  beef  cattle  more 
than  five  minutes.  Every  old  acquaintance  I 
met  offered  me  oil  stocks,  as  if  it  was  a  medi¬ 
cine  and  I  was  ailing  badly.  I  was  told  they 
were  going  to  get  up  an  exchange  on  purpose 
to  sell  ile  stocks.  The  papers  were  all  full  of  it, 
advertising  companies  with  a  capital  anywhere 
from  a  quarter  of  a  million  up  to  ten  millions. 
And  it  is  not  much  better  out  here  in  the  coun- 
tiy.  These  things  are  advertised  in  the  religi¬ 
ous  papers,  holding  out  to  everybody  the  pros¬ 
pect  of  sudden  riches.  The  women  get  hold  of 
the  papers  and  read  these  advertisements  just 
as  if  they  were  law  and  gospel,  being  in  a  re¬ 
ligious  paper,  and  indorsed  by  the  editors,  you 
see.  I  am  afraid  they  read  more  about  ile  than 
they  do  about  religion.  It  does  seem  as  if 
everybody’s  face  was  shining  with  ile.  They 
get  all  stirred  up,  and  half  the  time  forget  to 
wash  the  dishes,  or  get  the  dinner  into  the 
wrong  pot.  They  carry  the  matter  to  the  min¬ 
ister,  as  they  do  all  their  other  troubles,  and  he 
thinks  there  may  be  something  in  it.  Then  they 
tease  their  husbands  to  buy  stock,  and  dream  of 
rivers  of  ile  and  fine  houses.  “  What  is  the  use 
of  scrubbing  away  at  the  wash-tub,  or  grubbing 
with  a  hoe,  when  you  can  have  somebody 
pump  money  into  your  pocket  just  as  easy  as 
you  pump  water  into  a  pail  ?  ” 

Now  you  see,  Mr.  Editor,  this  business  has 
gone  about  far  enough.  It  is  unsettling  the 
foundations,  as  Mr.  Spooner  would  say.  It  is 
well  enough  for  people  who  have  got  money  to 


throw  away,  to  go  into  these  speeulations.  They 
may  make  a  heap  of  money,  and  they  may 
lose  every  cent.  Farmers,  generally,  are  not  of 
this  class.  There  is  nothing  we  want  so  much 
as  more  capital  in  our  business.  If  I  put  a 
hundred  dollars  into  tile  drains,  or  into  a  mow¬ 
ing  machine,  or  a  stone  digger,  I  am  sure  to  get 
a  good  dividend.  If  I  put  it  into  ile  stock,  I 
may  get  three  per  cent,  a  month,  but  more 
likely  I  shall  not  get  three  cents  in  as  many 
years.  Keep  your  capital  where  you  can  watch 
it.  Drive  at  your  business,  if  you  would  prosper. 
In  farming,  there  is  no  ile  like  elbow  grease. 
Hookertown,  Coniu,  i  Yours  to  command, 

March  lOtA,  1865.  j  Timothy  Bunker  Esq. 


Cows— Farmer  “Old  Style’s”  Advice. 

GOOD  RESULTS  AT  CALVUtG-TIMB. 


Mr.  Editor : — I  am  an  enthusiastic  farmer  and 
gardener.  Being  a  reading  man,  in  general  farm 
operations  I  take  the  key-note  from  Solon  Rob¬ 
inson.  I  have  despised  the  antique,  and  hugged 
radical  reforms  to  my  bosom.  “  Dig  Deeply !  ” 
In  trenching  and  buiying  manure,  I  follow 
Downing  and  Grant,  and  Beecher  and  Pardee. 
A  museum  of  broken  ox-yokes  and  plow-beams 
testifies  to  the  depth  of  my  plowing.  “i?ais« 
Roots!"  Havn’t  I — until  my  cellar  was  full, 
and  the  house  dripped  with  moisture,  and  the 
wall-paper  tumbled  about  my  ears,  and  wife’s 
best  gown  got  mould}’^ !  “  Raise  Green  Corn 

Fodder!"  Acres  of  it — so  that  my  cows  needed 
no  water,  nor  did  their  milk.  O,  I  have  re¬ 
sponded  to  the  shouts  of  all  the  banner-bearers 
in  improved  culture,  by  practice.  I  have  echoed 
the  shouts,  too,  and,  thanks  to  patient  Nature, 
have  taken  a  deal  of  comfort  in  my  single  blun¬ 
dering  successes  in  dozens  of  failures.  Before 
my  neighbors,  I  carry  a  “  stiff  upper  lip”  still, 
but  inwardly,  I  am  modesty  itself,  in  view  ol 
my  farming  experience,  and  when  I  advise  as  to 
the  road  to  success,  I  point  out  so  manj^  routes, 
that  I’ll  defy  any  man  to  say  I  sent  him  wrong. 

I  was  pleased  to  observe,  last  spring,  a  slight 
wall  among  our  writing  farmers,  concerning  the 
cows.  Miscarriage — failure  to  deliver  the  pla¬ 
centa,  and  so  on.  It  did  me  a  deal  of  good  to 
have  company  in  my  miserj- — for  that’s  the 
trouble  •with  my  cows.  Fat  and  sleek  cows,  too, 
apparently  •without  blemish,  and  cared  for  ir 
the  full  blaze  of  agricultural  light !  In  my 
desperation,  I  have  thought  of  going  back  to 
the  “barbarous  practices”  of  my  neighbors. 
They  have  no  trouble  with  calves,  or  their 
dams — the  latter  are  lean  and  the  former  are 
fiit;  and  there  is  no  trouble  about  their  cleaning. 
Their  cattle  get  the  range  of  bleak  pastures 
and  mouldy  fodder  from  frozen  stacks. 

It  was  a  little  tough,  but  I  flung  away  pride, 
went  and  told  one  of  my  old  st3de,  skin-flint, 
fanning  neighbors  of  my  difficulties,  and  frankly 
asked  his  opinion  as  to  the  cause. 

“  0, 3mu  nuss  yer  keows  tew  much,  ’Square, — 
mor’u  what’s  nat’ral — with  3'er  tight  stables,  and 
lutes.  Rutes  aint  nat’ral  feed  for  a  keow, — and 
yer  fine  hay  and  meal,  and  warm  slops,  spile 
their  constitooshuns.  Turn  3'er  cattle  cout. 
Square,  ’u’  let  ’em  git  their  liviu  along  under 
the  •walls,  with  a  ’casional  bite  of  suthiu  rough, 
— corn-butts,  or  sich.  Do  3'ou  give  your  keows 
any  nubbins  o’  corn,  just  afore  3'OU  ’spect  ’em  to 
cum  in,  ’Square?” 

“  Why  no.  Why  should  I  give  an  extra  feed 
when  they  are  in  such  good  condition  ?  ” 

“  I  don’t  keer  nothin’  for  condition.  My  father 
alius  gin  his  keows  nubbins  o’  corn  two  or 
three  weeks  afore  he  ’spected  ’em  to  come  in,— 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


117 


V  his  keows  done  well,—’ n’  that’s  the  way  I 
sarve  mine.” 

Drowning  men  catch  at  straws.  I  tried  the 
feed  of  corn  upon  the  ear,  last  spring,  and 
whether  by  chance  or  not,  the  calves  all  drop¬ 
ped  without  any  trouble,  and  I  am  trying  the 
same  “superstition”  this  year.  One  of  my 
finest  cows,  I  will  add,  had  given  me  a  deal  of 
trouble  each  of  the  two  previous  years. 


Raising  Garden  Seeds. 

The  ease  with  which  the  different  vegetable 
seeds  can  be  raised,  varies  considerably.  With 
cucumbers,  tomatoes,  and  many  others,  we  have 
only  to  select  the  earliest  and  finest  specimens, 
and  the  variety  can  be  kept  true  year  after  year 
•with  but  little  trouble.  With  biennial  plants, 
more  care  is  required,  and  unless  especial  pains 
are  taken,  the  sorts  are  apt  to  degenerate  if  pro¬ 
pagated  from  home-grown  seed.  Hence  cab¬ 
bage,  onion,  turnip,  and  many  other  seeds  of 
this  class  are  usually  procured  from  seedsmen, 
who  obtain  them  from  persons  who  make  it  a 
business  to  grow  them  upon  a  large  scale, 
and  who  are  careful  to  produce  a  reliable  article. 
For  those  who  wish  to  grow  their  own  seeds,  a 
few  hints  upon  the  treatment  of  the  leading 
sorts  will  be  timely,  as  the  season  is  now  at  hand 
when  biennial  roots,  bulbs,  etc.,  are  to  be  set 
out  for  seed.  It  must  be  borne  in  mind  that 
all  our  finer  sorts  of  vegetables  are  in  an  unna¬ 
tural  state  of  development.  They  have  been 
brought  to  their  present  excellence  by  carefully 
propagating  from  those  plants  which  present 
the  desirable  qualities  of  size  and  form,  and 
these  peculiarities  can  only  be  continued  by  ob¬ 
serving  the  same  conditions.  Hence  the  plants 
from  which  seeds  are  to  be  raised  must  be  the 
best  of  their  kind,  and  must  be  placed  under 
the  most  favorable  conditions  for  developement. 

Onions. — There  is  no  crop  more  affected  by 
care  in  seed  raising  than  the  onion.  By  a  pro¬ 
per  selection,  the  shape  of  the  bulbs  may  be 
modified  from  very  flat  to  globular,  and  by 
choosing  the  earliest  ripening  bulbs  for  seed, 
the  maturing  of  the  crop  may  be  appreciably 
hastened.  At  the  time  of  ripening  of  the  crop, 
the  earliest,  as  well  as  the  largest  and  best  formed, 
should  be  selected  for  seed-bearing  next  year, 
and  preserved,  with  good  ventilation,  during  the 
winter.  As  early  as  the  ground  can  be  worked, 
a  plot  should  be  prepared,  by  heavy  manuring 
and  deep  plowing.  Drills  are  made  about  three 
feet  apart,  and  five  inches  deep,  into  which  the 
onions  are  set,  at  four  or  five  inches  apart,  cut¬ 
ting  off  any  long  sprouts  at  the  time  of  plant¬ 
ing.  Cover  the  bulbs  with  fine  earth,  which  is 
to  be  gently  pressed  over  them.  When  the 
tops  appear  above  ground,  clean  out  the  weeds 
with  a  hoe,  and  draw  the  earth  towards  the 
onions ;  this  should  be  done  at  each  hoeing,  so 
that  by  blossoming-time  there  will  be  a  hill 
eight  or  ten  inches  high  around  them.  After  the 
onions  blossom,  the  roots  should  not  he  disturb¬ 
ed  by  working  among  them.  If  properly  hilled, 
the  stems  do  not  usually  need  any  support,  but 
if  they  are  inclined  to  fall  over,  a  line,  or  strips 
of  wood,  may  be  placed  at  a  proper  bight  to 
hold  them  up.  When  the  seed  pods  begin  to 
crack,  or  the  stalks  turn  yellow  near  the  ground, 
cut  off  the  heads,  with  about  six  inches  of  stem, 
and  expose  them  on  a  cloth  to  dry.  A  large 
portion  of  the  seed  will  rattle  out,  and  the  rest 
may  be  removed  by  rubbing  with  the  hands,  or 
threshing  with  flail.  By  placing  the  seed  in 
a  vessel  of  water,  the  good  will  sink,  and  the 
imperfect  may  be  separated.  The  seed  which 


sinks  should  be  thoroughly  dried  in  the  sun  be¬ 
fore  packing  it  away,  else  it  will  deteriorate. 

Cabbages. — The  great  difficulty  in  raising 
cabbage  seed  is  in  keeping  the  heads  in  good 
condition  during  the  winter.  The  manner  de¬ 
scribed  in  November  last  (p.  308),  is  the  one 
followed  by  seecl-raisers.  In  .the  spring,  the 
cabbages  are  set  up  to  the  head  in  rows,  in  very 
rich  soil,  and  a  cross-like  incision  made  through 
the  outer  leaves  to  facilitate  the  escape  of  the 
flower  stalks.  All  but  the  strong  central  shoots 
should  be  cut  out,  and  any  of  the  weak  branches 
of  these  must  be  removed. 

Beets,  Turnips,  and  Carrots.— The  best 
developed  specimens  of, these  are  to  be  selected 
in  autumn,  and  not  cut  so  closely  as  to  destroy 
the  terminal  bud,  or  crown.  They  arc  best  pre¬ 
served  in  sand,  but  may  be  kept  in  holes,  in  the 
cellar,  or  in  any  way  which  will  preserve  them 
from  wilting  or  decay.  Set  them  out  in  well 
prepared  soil,  remove  all  secondary  shoots 
which  start  up,  and,  if  need  be,  give  the  stems 
some  kind  of  support  to  keep  them  from  falling 
over.  In  order  to  keep  varieties  pure,  the  dif¬ 
ferent  kinds  should  not  be  set  near  each  other. 

Parsnips  and  Salsify.— In  digging  from 
tlie  bed,  the  best  should  be  preserved  for  seed, 
and  they  may  be  left  to  flower  where  they 
stand,  or  be  removed  to  a  more  coni'euient  spot. 
The  par.snips  should  have  the  later  flower 
bunches  cut  off,  and  only  the  seed  from  a  few 
of  the  earliest  allowed  to  perfect.  The  salsify 
should  be  cut,  with  the  full  length  of  the  stem, 
as  soon  as  the  seeds  are  plump  and  full,  and 
placed  in  an  airy  room.  If  left  until  quite  ripe, 
and  the  involucre  which  surround  the  seeds 
opens,  the  birds  will  take  the  most  of  the  crop. 

Celery. — The  seed  of  this  is  raised  from 
strong  plants,  which  have  been  well  kept 
through  the  winter.  The  stems  usually  need 
stakes  to  prevent  them  from  felling  down. 
- - - 

Asparagus. 


We  cannot  let  the  spring  go  by  without  say¬ 
ing  a  word  for  this  old-fashioned  vegetable.  It 
affords  one  of  the  earliest  products  of  the 
garden,  and  every  family,  large  or  small,  should 
have  a  bed.  The  plants  can  be  raised  from  seed 
sown  in  a  bed  by  itself,  in  the  spring.  The 
seeds  are  slow  to  vegetate,  but  are  quite  sure  to 
come  up  in  three  or  four  weeks.  Plants  one  to 
three  years  old  can  be  had  at  the  nurseries.  In 
making  a  bed  for  the  permanent  occupation  of 
the  roots,  choose  a  dry,  well-drained  spot,  open 
to  the  sun,  and  if  sheltered  on  the  north  side, 
all  the  better.  Suppose  the  plot  is  to  be  four 
feet  wide,  and  sixteen  long — a  good  size  for  a 
small  family — mark  it  off  with  stakes  at  the 
corners.  Remove  tlie  top  earth  to  the  depth 
of  a  spade,  and  lay  it  at  one  side  of  the  bed. 
Wheel  in  coarse  manure,  to  cover  the  bottom, 
three  inches  thick,  and  spade  it  in.  Having 
trodden  this  down  moderately,  to  prevent  much 
settling  afterward,  throw  back  the  top  soil,  and 
spade  three  inches  more  of  fine  old  manure  into 
this.  Work  the  whole  intimately  together.  If 
convenient,  two  or  three  inches  more  of  rich, 
sandy  loam  may  be  spread  over  the  plot,  to  re¬ 
ceive  the  roots,  though  this  is  not  essential. 
The  bed,  when  finished,  should  be  several 
inches  higher  than  the  walk.  Three  rows  of 
plants,  lengthwise  of  the  bed,  and  eighteen 
inches  asunder,  each  way,  is  a  suitable  distance. 
The  common  mistake  is  to  set  the  roots  too 
near  together,  making  them  crowd  one  another, 
and  speedily  exhaust  the  soil.  Cover  the 
crowns  about  four  inches  deep  with  good  soil. 


No  cuttings  should  be  taken  off  the  first  year 
and  never,  until  the  plants  are  three  years  old 
from  the  seed.  Keep  the  beds  clear  of  weeds 
throughout  the  summer,  and  in  the  fall  remove 
the  tops,  spreading  over  the  crowns  about  three 
inches  of  manure.  The  coarse  parts  are  to  be 
raked  off  in  the  spring,  and  the  finer  carefully 
forked  In.  Asparagus  beds  are  benefited  by 
an  annual  coat  of  salt,  just  enough  to  cover  the 
ground  like  a  white  frost.  Soap  suds,  and  other 
slops  from  the  kitchen,  may  be  applied  occa¬ 
sionally  with  profit.  A  bed  well  made  and 
cared  for,  will  produce  well  for  many  years. 


Perennial  Herbaceous  Plants. 


The  growing  fondne.ss  for  “bedding-plants/’^ 
is  somewhat  likely  to  lead  to  neglect  of  the  old- 
fashioned  perennial  flowers.  Surely,  we  are 
not  of  those  wlio  would  disparage  the  first 
named ;  for  wlio  could  get  along  without  the 
Verbena,  Petunia,  Heliotrope,  Lantana,  and  oth¬ 
ers  of  this  sort  ?  But  there  is  one  great  defect 
in  these  “bedders”;  being  tender,  they  cannot 
safely  be  put  out  in  the  border  until,  or  after, 
May  20th,  and  then  it  takes  several  weeks  for 
them,  to  get  established  and  come  into  bloom. 

Now,  every  lover  of  the  garden  wants  a  set  of 
plants  to  supply  this  lack  of  flowers  between 
the  first  of  April  and  the  middle  of  June.  How 
can  he  do  this,  save  by  having  a  good  assort¬ 
ment  of  perennials  ?  And  we  urge  the  cultiva¬ 
tion  of  these  plants,  moreover,  because  they  are 
such  old  friends,  and  because  their  management 
is  so  simple  and  easy.  All  they  require  is  a  lit¬ 
tle  manuring  every  other  season,  and  a  division 
of  the  I’oots,  and  a  re-setting  once  in  two  or  three 
years.  Any  one  wlio  is  unwilling  to  take  this 
little  trouble,  doesn’t  deserve  to  have  a  garden. 
How  different  this  slight  labor  and  care  from 
the  annual  potting  and  re-potting,  the  housing 
in  winter,  and  replanting  every  spring  required 
by  the  tender  bedding  plants !  Leaving  out  of 
question  the  Bulbs,  such  as  Snow  Drops,  Hya¬ 
cinths,  Crown  Imperials,  and  others  which 
should  have  been  planted  last  autumn,  we  give 
a  list  of  common  early  blooming  herbaceous 
perennials,  which,  if  set  this  spring,  -will  give  a 
fair  bloom  that  will  increase  in  beaut}'  and 
abundance  in  following  years :  Violets,  blue  and 
white,  single  and  double,  and  very  fragrant; 
Daisies,  Polyanthus,  Creeping  Phlox,  Colum¬ 
bines,  Pulmonaria,  Lily  of  the  Valley,  Coreop¬ 
sis,  Fraxinella,  Pinks,  Dodecatheon,  Lychnis, 
Oriental  Poppy,  Potentilla,  Ranu-nculus,  Lark¬ 
spurs,  Valerian.  Of  these,  all  come  into  bloom 
between  April  and  June  15th,  and  nearly  all 
have  numerous  varieties.  It  would  be  a  great 
loss  to  our  gardens  to  be  deprived  of  them. 


Bones  For  Poultry. 


Fasten  pieces  of  wide  boards  on  three  sides 
of  a  hard  stone,  and  with  a  hammer  break  the 
bones  from  the  kitchen  in  small  fragments,  not 
larger  than  peas.  Hens  that  are  laying  will  eat 
them  with  avidity.  Bones  from  fresh  meat,  if 
broken  fine  so  that  hens  will  swallow  the  pieces, 
are  excellent  to  make  them  lay.  Poultry  of  all 
kinds  should  be  well  supplied  with  sharp  gra¬ 
vel  also  at  this  season  of  the  year.  Pounded 
oyster  shells,  where  they  can  be  obtained,  afford 
one  of  the  best  means  of  supplying  lime. 


Good  men  have  the  fewest  fears.  He  has  but 
one  who  fears  to  do  wrong.  He  has  a  thousanS 
I  who  has  overcome  that  one. 


118 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Apnit, 


Yolk  of  Wool.— Greasy  Fleeces. 

There  e.\ists  in  all  animals  a  provision  for 
Bofleiiing  and  lubricating  the  hair,  wool,  fui-,  or 
feathers,  without  which  their  coats  would  soon 
become  harsh,  stiff,  and  brittle;  the  skin  would 
become  diy,  and  dust 
and  dirt  easily  working 
through  the  dry  cover¬ 
ing  would  adhere  to 
the  cuticle,  and  disease 
would  ensue.  In  shecji, 
this  oily  and  lubricating 
substance  is  called  the 
yolk;  it  is  possessed  of 
remarkable  qualities, 
and  is  of  inestimable 
value.  It  consists  of  an 
oily  soap,  which  exudes 
pure  and  limpid  like 
oil  from  the  skin,  and 
coats  the  fibres  of  wool. 

As  it  is  drawn  up  by 
capillary  attractimi  to¬ 
wards  the  surface  of  the 
fleece,  it  soon  begins  to 
thicken,  in  some  cases 
quite  uniformly,  until 
it  agglutinates  the  ends 
ol  the  wool  fibres  on 
the  surface;  in  others, 
it  accummulates  in  an 
oily  mass  in  the  wool,  or 
it  fills  the  w’ool  with 
specks  like  gummy, 
greasy  dandruff ;  while 
in  other  cases,  especial¬ 
ly  wMth  the  long-wot'v. 
and  hairy  sheep,  it  is 
never  found  in  consider¬ 
able  quantity,  but  only 
manifests  itself  by  its 
odor,  and  by  giving  a 
greasy  feel  to  the  fleece. 

When  a  mass  of  xvool 
or  fur  is  wet  and  pound¬ 
ed,  or  kneaded  in  the 
hands,  the  fibres  work 
together,  and  finally 
form  a  compact  mass, 
called  felt.  This  felt¬ 
ing  property  is  possessed  by  the  finest  wools 
in  a  much  greater  degree  than  by  coarse  ones, 
and  is  the  property  which  gives  to  broadcloths, 
beavers,  etc.,  the  beautiful  firmness  and  close¬ 
ness  of  texture  w’hich  they  possess,  making  it 
diffleult  to  part  the  threads  of  the  cloth.  The 
preswice  of  the  yolk  in  these  fine  w’ools  entirely 
prevents  the  w’ool  felting  on  the  sheeps’  backs — 
though  occasionally  it  does  so,  to  a  small  extent, 
when  severe  storms  have  washed  it  out  from  the 
surface,  and  the  sheep  have  crowded  and  rub¬ 
bed  against  each  other  while  wet.  The  protec¬ 
tion  the  yolk  affords  to  the  wool  in  this  w'ay,  is 
scarcely  less  than  that  which  it  gives  to  the  skin, 
by  its  forming  a  barrier  which  dust  and  dirt 
cannot  p-ass.  These  substances  being  arrested 
on  the  surface  of  the  fleece,  by  the  yolk,  assist 
in  forming  the  coating  which  the  clotted  yolk 
makes.  It  is  of  no  use  ■whatever  to  the  manu¬ 
facturer,  except  perhaps  as  its  soapy  nature 
may  make  the  yolk  and  gum  of  some  fleeces  aid 
in  W'ashing  others.  The  quantity  of  yolk  found 
in  the  wool  of  some  of  the  Itlerino  family 
amounts,  sometimes,  to  several  pounds  in  a 
single  fleece,  and  such  is  the  heedlcssness  of 
wool-buyers,  that  they  pay  just  as  much,  as  a 


general  rule,  for  wool  thus  overloaded  with 
grease,  if  it  be  onl}'  called  “  washed,”  as  for  that 
which  will  cleanse  with  much  greater  profit  to 
manufacturers.  It  is,  therefore,  an  object  with 
shepherds  and  farmers  to  ivash  their  wool  little, 
and  to  encourage  the  production  of  as  much 


yolk  as  possible.  In  the  earlier  part  of  the 
present  centuiy,  farmers  and  sheep-breeders 
conscientiously  studied  the  interests  of  manu¬ 
facturers,  and  tried  to  produce  fine  fleeces,  and 
to  put  them  into  market  well  washed ;  now, 
however,  the}’  are  driven,  by  a  reasonable  re¬ 
gard  to  their  own  interests,  to  the  opposite 
course.  The  results  are  likely  to  be,  as  we  con¬ 
ceive  it,  most  unfortunate.  Our  breeders  have 
improved  greatly  upon  the  form  of  the  original 
]\Ierino;  the}’  have  increased  the  weight  of  the 
carcass,  and  have  not  suffered  the  fineness  of  the 
wool  to  deteriorate,  but  they  Iiave  increased  the 
weight  of  the  fleece  chiefly  in  the  vast  quantity 
of  oil  the  animals  exude  from  their  skins,  and 
which  dries  in  the  fleece.  We  hear  of  fleeces 
of  18  to  27  pounds  weight,  and  when  we  con¬ 
sider  that  without  doubt  such  fleeces  would 
often  diminish  in  cleaning  to  4  or  5  lbs.  each, 
and  perhaps  less  than  that,  and  that  one-fourth 
part  of  the  yolk  which  so  abounds  in  them 
would  be  abundant  for  the  purposes  for  ■which 
it  is  so  indispensable,  we  must  say  that  there  is 
a  very  considerable  xvaste  of  vital  power  in  the 
production  of  this  article,  which,  by  judicious 
management,  should  be  turned  to  better  account. 


On  this  subject,  Hon.  11.  S.  Randall  writes, 
“  I  esteem  it  particularly  fortunate  for  ths 
preservation  of  the  intrinsic  value  of  our  Merino 
sheep,  and  fortunate  for  the  publie  interest,  that 
it  is  already  incontestibly  ascertained  that  the 
greatest  amount  of  yolk  is  not  consistent  ei¬ 
ther  with  the  greatest 
amount  of  wool,  or  with 
the  greatest  aggregate 
amount  of  both  yolk 
and  wool.  The  black, 
miserably ‘oily,’  ‘gum¬ 
my’  sheep,  looking  as  if 
their  wool  had  been 
soaked  to  saturation  in 
half  inspissated  oil,  and 
then  daubed  over  ex¬ 
ternally  ivith  a  coating 
of  tar  and  lamp-black, 
never  exhibit  that  max¬ 
imum  of  both  length 
and  density  of  wool 
W’hich,  with  a  proper 
degree  of  yolk,  produces 
the  greatest  aggregate 
W’eight.  And  animals 
exhibiting  this  marked 
excess  of  yolk,  are  in¬ 
variably  feebler  in  con¬ 
stitution,  less  easily 
kept,  and  especially 
less  capable  of  with¬ 
standing  severe  cold. 
Such  excessive  secre¬ 
tions  appear,  then,  to 
cause  or  else  to  be  the 
results  of  an  abnormal 
or  defective  organiza¬ 
tion.  For  these  reasons, 
those  comparatively 
worthless  animals,  once 
so  eagerly  sought,  have 
already  gone  out  of  use 
among  the  best  inform¬ 
ed  breeders;  andwhei-e 
they  linger,  it  is,  like 
antiquated  firshions,  in 
regions  where  the  cur¬ 
rent  ideas  of  the  '^^ay 
penetrate  slowly  i  — 
This  w’as  wr  itten  some 
time  ago,  and  now  w’e  really  fear  that  our 
American  Merino  breeders  are  losing  sight  of 
the  truths  inculcated.  In  these  oil  times,  the. 
engraving  our  artist  presents  this  month,  not 
inaptly  institutes  a  comparison  between  fwo 
equally  mad  kinds  of  speeulation.  We  hope 
the  lesson  may  be  heeded  and  praetised  upon. 


Farmers’  Gardens. 


Perhaps  one  reason  why  farmers’  gardens 
are  so  neglected,  is  this :  they  think  they  must 
be  laid  off  into  formal  beds  or  departments,  and 
kept  up  with  a  great  deal  of  system  and  care. 
They  imagine  they  require  much  time  and  skill 
in  sowing  and  planting,  in  weeding  and  training. 
Now’,  of  course,  much  time  may  be  profitably 
spent  in  the  garden,  if  one’s  taste  and  desires 
so  incline  him,  but  this  is  not  necessary  for  rais¬ 
ing  a  large  quantitv  of  good  vegetables.  Let 
us  see  w’hat  can  be  done  in  an  easy  way  :  If  the 
plot  needs  manuring,  no  farmer  w’ill  object  to 
giving  it.  Plowing  it  needs  of  course,  deep 
plowing,  and  then  harrowing.  All  tliis  can  be 
done  in  the  spring,  w'hen  the  team  and  haadi 
are  doing  the  same  kind  of  work  in  the  fieid 


HOW  THE  “INFANTADO”  AND  “  PAULAR  ”  FOLKS  “STRIKE  ILE.” 


Farmer:  Twenty^six  and  three-quarter  pounds,  good  weight  V - New-Yorker:  And  twenty-two  pounds 

of  it  ‘‘dear  He,’'  ThaVs  more  oil  and  less  wool  {to  pull  over  peoples'  eyes,)  than  we  use  in  Wall  street. 


1865,1 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


119 


As  for  planting :  a  part  of  this  can  be  done 
early  before  similar  work  will  begin  on  the 
farm.  For  example :  take  the  driest  end  of  the 
garden  and  plant  it  with  early  peas,  and  early 
potatoes.  In  some  warm  corner,  prepare  a  bed 
for  a  little  lettuce.  This  is  the  first  job,  and  it 
can  all  be  done  up  in  some  odd  half-day  early 
in  April.  After  the  farm  work  has  proceeded  a 
few  days,  give  the  garden  an  hour,  to  put  in 
some  early  sweet  coi’n  and  potatoes.  Plant 
in  drills  about  3  feet  apart.  The  farm  work 
may  now  take  another  jog  of  a  week  or  there¬ 
abouts,  when  the  garden  will  need  a  day’s  work, 
to  finish  up  the  major  part  of  the  planting. 
Mark  off  the  land  in  drills  about  tliree  and  a 
half  feet  apart,  and  plant  more  corn  and  pota¬ 
toes.  Put  in  a  second  crop  of  peas.  A  few 
beds  will  be  needed  for  beets,  onions  and  such 
roots.  Arrange  these  to  occupy  about  the 
width  of  two  drills,  so  that  the  cultivator,  as  it 
goes  among  the  rows  of  corn  and  potatoes, 
may  pass  along  the  alleys  ot  these  beds.  Cu¬ 
cumbers,  squashes,  etc.,  will  require  patches  by 
themselves,  but  the  larger  part  of  the  ground 
can  be  so  planned  as  to  be  tilled  by  the  horse- 
cultivator,  which  will  save  much  time  and  labor. 
Such  a  garden  will  yield  greater  returns  than 
any  corresponding  part  of  the  farm,  and  be  pro¬ 
ductive  of  health  and  comfort  for  the  family. 


DAPHNE  MEZBRHUM. 

The  Shrubbery  in  Spring. 

With  a  little  care,  a  variety  of  shrubs  can  be 
selected,  which  will  give  a  succession  of  bloom 
throughout  the  season.  Early  flowers,  whether 
produced  on  shrubs  or  herbaceous  plants,  have 
a  cliaim  which  is  not  possessed  by  later  bloom¬ 
ing  ones.  We  watch  the  spring  flowers  as  a 
flaral  index  to  learn  how  the  season  is  coming 


HARKNESS’  NUKSERT  TREE  BIGGER. 


on.  The  Chinese  Mag¬ 
nolia  was  noticed  last 
month  as  one  of  our 
early  flowering  favor¬ 
ites,  and  we  are  also 
indebted  to  China  for 
another  hardy  spring 
flowering  shrub,  the 
Forsythia,  which  now 
hangs  out  its  golden 
bells  before  the  leaves 
have  found  out  that 
it  is  spring-time.  We 
have  a  strong  liking 
for  the  floral  friends  of 
our  early  days,  and  though  we  may  much  admire 
new  things,  we  have  not  the  love  for  them  which 
we  feel  for  those  old  and  tried  friends.  Among  the 
old-fashioned  early  spring  shrubs,  we  hold  the 
common  Daphne  {Daphne  Mezereum)  in  especial 
estimation.  It  is  a  low  shrub,  about  four  feet 
high,  and  a  native  of  Northern  Europe.  In 
England  it  flowers  all  winter,  but  in  oaf  colder 
climate  it  awaits  the  first  warm  days  of  spring, 
when  it  suddenly  clothes  its  branches  in  “  blush¬ 
ing  wreaths”  of  small  pinkish  flowers,  which 
are  often  so  thickly  bestowed  as  to  quite  hide 
the  stem.  The  engraving  shows  tlie  summit  of 
a  stem,  with  the  flowers  of  the  natural  size. 
The  flowers  have  a  pleasant  fragrance,  and 
are  succeeded  by  red  berries.  Thus  far,  we 
have  only  spoken  well  of  our  old  friend 
Daphne,  but  to  tell  the  wliole  truth,  it  must 
be  stated  that  its  bark  is  found  in  the  drug 
shops,  and  it  consequently  has  some  bad  quali¬ 
ties.  The  fresh  inner  bark,  when  applied  to 
the  skin,  produces  blistering,  and  if  chewed, 
causes  a  great  irritation  in  the  month  and  tliroat, 
and  if -taken  into  the  stomach,  produces  violent 
effects.  In  England  the  plant  is  sometimes  cal¬ 
led  “  Garland  Tree,”  but  in  this  country  it  is 
usually  known  as  Daphne,  or  Mezereum.  There 
is  a  variety  with  white  flowers,  and  one  with 
purple  foliage.  The  plants  arc  sold  in  the  nur¬ 
series  at  50  cents  each,  and  may  be  raised  from 
seed,  or  by  layers.  So-w  seed  as  soon  as  ripe,  or 
they  will  not  germinate  until  the  second  year. 

Our  native  Splce-busli  {Benzoin  odoriferum), 
which  has  its  slender  twigs  covered  with  small 
yellow  flowers,  is  very  common  in  clamp  woods, 
and  should  be  introduced  into  the  slirubbery 
where  there  is  a  rather  moist  and  shady  locality. 


Harkness’  Nursery  Tree  Digger. 

Mr.  S.  T.  Kelsey,  McLean  Co.,  Ill,  sends  us  a 
drawing  and  description  of  an  implement  used 
in  western  nurseries,  for  digging  up  trees  as 
they  stand  in  nursery  rows.  The  machine  was 
invented  by  Mr.  Edson  Harkness,  was  brought 
into  use  and  improved  by  Mr.  C.  K.  Overman, 
and  furtber  improved  by  Mr.  Kelsey.  We 
allow  Mr.  K.  to  describe  its  merits  in  his  own 
language,  with  the  remark  that  the  machine  is 
not  patented,  and  that,  while  it  is  used  in  some 
large  western  nurseries,  the  eastern  nursery¬ 
men  do  not  think  favorably  of  digging  in  any 
other  way  than  by  the  spade.  The  engraving  re¬ 
presents  the  machine  drawn  to  a  scale.  “  The 
plate,  a,  is  of  steel,  i  inch  thick,  and  bent,  as 
shown  in  the  sketch,  it  being  28  inches  wide  be¬ 
tween  the  upright  portions.  The  point  in  front 
of  the  blade  serves  to  steady  it ;  it  should  be 
bent  a  little  downward.  The  blade  passes 
through  the  earth,  under  and  along  each  side  of 
the  trees,  at  any  desired  depth,  cutting  off  the 
roots  with  a  clean,  smooth  cut,  without  injury 
by  breaking  or  mutilation.  The  iron  bars, 


6,  6,  are  |  inch  thick,  and  3  inches  wide,  and 
bent  outward,  so  that  the  whiffletree  hooks  are 
36  inches  apart.  The  handles  are  set  so  that 
the  bows  are  4  feet  apart.  Two  sharp  knives, 
c,  c,  serve  to  cut  any  rubbish  which  would 
otlierwise  clog  the  digger.  If  kept  sharp,  tlicy 
seldom  pass  over  any  rubbish  without  culting- 
it,  and,  being  placed  obliquelj%  they  never  clog. 
The  whifflctrces  are  15  inches  long,  and  are  the 
same  as  used  for  ordinary  nursery  work.  The 
plate  must  be  polished  smoctli  and  bright,  and 
sharpened  with  a  file.  It  is  well  to  carry  the 
file  along  wbiie  using  the  machine,  so  as  to 
sltarpeii  it  as  needed.  The  machine  is  drawn 
by  four  strong,  steady  horses,  with  a  gait  aa 
nearly  alike  as  possible, — in  heavy  digging,  we 
have  used  six..  The  hind  team  is  hitched  so  that 
a  horse  will  go  each  side  of  the  row.  The  head 
team  is  hitched  to  the  same  whiffletrees,  in  front 
of  the  otlier  by  lengthening  out  the  tugs  by 
means  of  ropes  or  chains,  which  are  kept  out  of 
the  way  by  fastening  them  up  to  the  harness  of 
the  hind  horses.  To  work  the  machine,  a  man,  or 
good  bo}',  is  required  on  each  horse,  and  a  man 
at  each  handle.  The  “  boss  ”  of  the  work  should 
be  a  man  of  good,  practical  common  sense,  and 
have  charge  of  one  of  the  handles  of  the  ma¬ 
chine.  The  digger  is  set  a  few  feet  back  from 
the  end  of  the  row,  in  order  that  it  may  run 
deep  enough  when  it  comes  under  the  trees,  and 
tlie  liorses  should  all  si  art  together,  at  a  steady 
walk.  The  men  at  the  handles  guide  the  digger 
and  see  tliat  all  goes  right.  If  the  blade  runs 
too  deep,  lower  the  front  end  of  the  bars,  and 
raise  lliem  if  it  runs  too  shallow.  This  can  be 
done  by  changing  the  attachment  of  the  bars,?*, 
to  the  upright  portion  of  the  blade  which  has 
several  holes,  to  allow  the  bolts  to  be  placed  at 
different  bights,  as  shown  in  the  engraving.  If 
there  is  not  room  at  the  end  of  the  row  to  allow 
the  team  to  pull  the  digger  through,  the  remain¬ 
ing  trees  must  be  dug  with  a  spade.  With  a 
team  and  men,  as  above  described,  %ve  have  dug 
40,000  heavy  4  year  old  apple  trees  in  a  day,  but 
25,000  is  a  good  average  day’s  work.  We  have 
dug  maples,  3  inches  through,  with  4  horses. 
The  digger  now  costs  $40  or  $50  to  make;  it 
would  probably  wmrk  well  in  sandy  soils,  but 
not  among  gravel  or  stones.  The  advantages 
of  using  the  digger  are;  1st.  The  trees  can  be 
dug  at  one-fourth  the  expense  of  digging  with 
spades,  2d.  They  can  be  dug  in  a  very  short 
time,  and  there  is  no  delay  in  filling  orders. 
3d.  It  does  the  work  better  than  it  can  be  done 
with  spades.  4lh.  The  trees  are  dug  and  heeled 
in  at  the  same  time.  The  roots  being  simply 
cut  at  a  distance  from  the  stem,  the  tree  is  left 
standing,  with  the  earth  undisturbed  around  its 
fibres,  and  may  be  left,  with  perfect  safety,  over 
winter,  or  through  the  next  summer.  Any  tree 
can  be  taken  from  the  row  without  disturbing 
the  others.  5th.  We  can  dig  evergreens,  and  il 
■we  do  not  wish  to  take  them  all  out,  we  cw 


190 


AMEPwICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[APBOi, 


MANNER  OF  PLANTING  A  GISAPE  VINE. 


leave  a  part,  whicli  will  be  finely  root  pruned, 
without  the  expense  of  transplanting  them.” 

- m  t  I  III - 

Experience  with  a  Cold  Grapery. 

{Concluded from  March  Agriculturist,  page  84.) 

Second  Year. — The  last  of  April  the  vines 
were  uncovered  and  fastened  to  the  lower  wire, 
letting  the  top  end  fall  down  in  the  form  of  an 
arch.  The  borders  were  then  cleaned, forked  over 
and  watered.  In  a  few  days  and  after  the  buds 
burst  strong,  the  vines  were  put  up.  As  soon  as 
the  bunches  appeared,  three  of  the  best  were  left 
on  the  strong  vines,  and  one  on  the  weak  vines ; 
all  the  rest  w’ere  taken  oflf.  The  upper  shoot 
was  left  to  grow  for  next  year’s  bearing  cane, 
and  carefully  trained  to  the  wires.  All  the 
other  shoots  were  pinched  when  they  had  form¬ 
ed  the  fifth  leaf.  The  laterals  were  checked 
twice  during  the  season,  always  leaving  one 
leaf  of  the  new  growth.  When  the  grapes 
were  the  size  of  peas,  they  were  thinned,  taking 
out  about  half  on  each  bunch,  leaving  room  for 
the  remainder  to  grow  to  good  size,  without 
becoming  crowded.  During  the  growth  of  the 
grapes,  the  vines  were  syringed  nearly  every 
day,  and  good  air  secured  by  opening  the  top 
ventilators  in  the  day  time,  but  closing  at  night. 

When  the  grapes  commenced  coloring,  syr¬ 
inging  was  discontinued,  and  water  gradually 
withheld  from  the  borders,  as  a  dry  atmos¬ 
phere  hastens  the  ripening  process.  The  grapes 
were  all  ripe  on  the  1st  of  October,  there  being 
GO  lbs.  of  good-sized,  well-colored  grapes,  mostly 
Black  Hamburghs.  After  the  grapes  were  cut, 
the  front  border  was  extended  from  3  to  5  feet, 
with  a  compost  prepared  like  that  used  at  first. 
Tlie  vines  were  then  taken  down,  the  side  spurs 
shortened  to  2  buds,  the  leading  cane  to  10  feet. 
They  were  then  laid  down  on  the  borders,  and 
covered  the  same  as  last  year.  The  house  was 
kept  cool  during  the  winter,  by  leaving  the  doors 
open  in  fair  weather. 

Third  Year. — The  first  of  April  the  vines 
were  uncovered  and  washed  with  a  mixture  of 
soft  soap,  sulphur,  and  warm  water,  to  clean 
and  soften  the  bark.  The  borders  were  then 
cleaned  and  forked  over,  and  watered  with 
liquid  from  the  barn-yard.  As  I  uncovered  the 
vines  sooner  than  usual,  and  fearing  there  might 
be  some  cold,  frosty  nights,  I  put  in  the  house 
a  common  coal  stove,  to  be  ready,  if  occasion 
should  require  it,  to  guard  against  frost.  The 
vines  were  fastened  to  the  lower  wire,  leaving 
the  upper  part  swinging  in  the  form  of  an  arch, 
which  causes  the  buds  to  burst  more  uniform¬ 
ly  than  if  fastened  directly  in  their  place. 

In  a  few  days  the  buds  commenced  swelling, 
and  burst  strong  and  evenly.  The  top  ventila¬ 
tors  were  kept  open  in  fair  weather,  never  let¬ 
ting  the  temperature  get  above  80°,  until  the 
vines  had  made  2  or  3  inches  of  growth,  when 
they  were  fastened  to  tiie  wires,  and  the  tem¬ 
perature  gradually  increased  to  100",  in  the 
middle  of  bright,  sunny  days.  The  vines  were 
syringed  every  warm  day,  until  they  commenced 
blossoming,  when  it  was  withheld.  As  the 
blossoms  expanded,  I  ivent  over  the  house 
every  morning,  and  gave  the  bunches  a  slight 
shake  with  the  finger,  to  assist  in  distributing 
the  pollen,  and  thus  enable  the  grapes  to  set 
with  more  certainty.  After  blossoming  was 
over,  the  vines  were  thoroughly  syringed,  to 
clean  off  any  portion  of  the  flowers  which 
might  cling  to  the  bunches.  As  there  were 
many  more  bunches  on  the  vines  than  they 
ought  to  bear,  I  took  off  all  but  12  or  15  from 
each  vine  on  the  front  border,  and  from  10  to 


12  on  the  back  vines,  leav¬ 
ing  of  the  largest  and  hand¬ 
somest  bunches  one  on  a 
spur.  As  the  house  was 
quite  moist,  with  a  good  de¬ 
gree  of  heat,  the  berries  swel¬ 
led  rapidly.  The  bunches 
were  thinned  twice  during 
the  season,  taking  about  half 
from  each  bunch,  but  I  found 
when  they  commenced  rip¬ 
ening,  if  I  had  taken  out 
more,  the  berries  would  have 
grown  some  larger.  The 
grapes  commenced  coloring 
by  the  middle  of  August,  and 
by  the  second  week,  or  on  the  lOtli  of  September, 
the  grapes  on  the  White  Frontignan  vine  and 
the  Chasselas  Fontainbleau  were  ripe;  the  rest 
being  Black  Hamburghs,  were  not  fully  ripe  tili 
October.  The  treatment  of  the  vines  this  sea¬ 
son  was  the  same  as  last  j'ear,  though  from  a 
half  dozen  of  the  Hamburgh  vines  I  have  raised 
strong  canes  to  fruit  next  year,  cutting  out  the 
old  ones  to  the  base  of  the  new  cane,  at  the  fall 
pruning.  Aside  from  these  six,  the  rest  of  the 
vines  are  pruned  on  the  common  spur  system. 

I  have  not  bad  any  trouble  with  mildew, 
or  the  other  diseases  common  to  grapes  raised 
under  glass,  though,  as  tlie  vines  grow  older,  I 
do  not  always  expect  to  be  as  fortunate  as  now. 
Perhaps  my  taking  the  precaution  to  scatter 
flower  of  sulphur  on  the  borders,  in  July,  may 
be  one  great  reason  of  my  being  entirely  ex¬ 
empted.  After  the  frost  had  bitten  the  leaves 
ill  November,  the  vines  were  taken  down,  prun¬ 
ed,  laid  on  the  borders,  and  covered  as  last  year. 

I  find,  on  referring  to  account  with  grapery, 
the  cost  of  tlie  house  and  fixtures,  with  vines, 
all  planted,  to  be  $160 ;  care  of  house  for  1862- 
3^,  $100 ;  widening  front  border,  in  1863,  $10 ; 
total  cost  to  this  time,  $270.  I  have  receiv¬ 
ed  &r  tomato  plants  raised  in  house,  $55 ; 
grapes  in  1863,  $25 ;  grapes  in  1864,  350  lbs., 
$150 ;  grape  vines  1864,  $50 ;  total,  $280. 

- O  —  - •  m 

Short  Directions  for  Vine  Planters. 


It  is  presumed  that  every  one  who  has  not  a 
vine  but  has  room  to  put  it,  will  plant  one  this 
spring — and  more  if  space  and  means  allow. 
The  following  brief  hints  wilt  answer  for  a  sin¬ 
gle  vine  or  for  an  acre:  Having  determined 
on  the  varieties,  procure  them  from  some  grow¬ 
er  who  has  a  reputation  for  quality  of  stock 
and  correctness  as  to  varieties.  Tlie  soil  must 
be  drained,  if  at  all  disposed  to  be  wet.  More 
failures  result  from  the  neglect  of  this  than  from 
any  other  cause.  The  soil  must  be  enriched  and 
well  worked  to  the  depth  of  20  inches  or  two 
feet.  If  sandy,  the  character  of  the  soil  must 
be  amended  by  the  addition  of  leaf  mould,  or 
other  vegetable  material.  Do  not  over  manure, 
but  enrich  the  ground  with  well  decomposed 
manure  to  give  the  vines  a  good  start.  Vines 
of  tl^c  age  of  two  years  from  the  bud  or  cutting, 
are  old  enough,  and  of  the  quick  growing  sorts, 
those  one  year  old  will  answer.  Vines  are  sent 
out  with  as  long  roots  as  possible.  These  are 
to  be  cut  back  to  about  18  inches  before  plant¬ 
ing,  and  the  top  is  cut  back  to  three  buds,  if  the 
nurseryman  has  not  already  saved  the  trouble. 
Dig  a  circular  hole  large  enough  to  allow  the 
roots,  after  pruning,  to  extend  in  every  direc¬ 
tion,  making  the  surface  of  the  earth  in  the  hole 
convex,  so  that  the  ends  of  the  roots  will  be 
from  six  to  ten  inches  below  the  surface,  while 
the  point  from  which  they  start  will  be  from 


four  to  six  inches  below.  Set  stout  a  6  or  8-fooi 
stake  in  the  center  of  the  hole,  then  place  the 
vine  beside  it,  spreading  out  the  roots  equally  in 
every  direction,  as  in  the  figure.  Cover  the 
roots  carefully  with  fine  soil,  and  then  fill  up  the 
hole  and  press  down  the  earth  with  the  foot. 
In  spring  planting,  it  is  well  to  leave  a  depres¬ 
sion  around  the  vine  to  allow  the  rains  to 
sink  into  the  soil.  When  the  buds  start,  rub 
off  all  but  the  strongest  one,  and  afterward 
keep  the  shoot  from  this  tied  up  to  the  stake. 


The  Cultivation  of  Fruit  Trees. 


In  looking  over  a  file  of  letters  containing 
queries  upon  fruit  culture,  we  find  that  the  ma¬ 
jority  of  them  maybe  summed  up  in  the  ques¬ 
tions  ;  “  What  will  make  my  pear  trees  bear  ?” 
“  What  shall  I  do  with  my  old  apple  orchard  ?” 
The  greater  part  of  these  numerous  inquiries 
may  be  answered  by  commending  the  writers 
to  the  experience  of  two  correspondents  whose 
letters  are  found  in  the  same  file.  As  the  com¬ 
munications  are  rather  long,  we  extract  theii 
essential  points.  Mr.  D.  W.  M.,  of  Adrian, 
Michigan,  planted  some  years  ago  a  number  of 
pear  trees  along  his  garden  fence,  where  the 
ground  soon  became  covered  with  a  tough  sod, 
and  those  trees  which  survived  this  treatment 
at  the  end  of  eight  or  ten  years  were  not  worth 
as  much  as  when  first  taken  from  the  nursery. 
Having  occasion  to  move  the  fence,  it  became 
necessary,  in  order  to  bring  the  ground  into 
better  shape,  to  plow  around  the  pear  trees, 
and  the  space  near  them  was  devoted  to  a  hoed 
garden  crop.  This  treatment  caused  such  a 
marked  improvement  in  the  trees  that  Mr.  M. 
was  encouraged  to  further  efforts.  Accordingly, 
in  the  autumn  he  dug  a  trench  around  each 
tree,  about  two  feet  from  the  trunk,  and  15  to  18 
inches  wide  and  deep.  These  trenches  were 
filled  with  scrapings  of  the  barn-j'ard,  and  as  a 
consequence,  the  trees  were  thrown  into  vigor¬ 
ous  growth.  Ever  since,  the  space  around  the 
trees  has  been  manured  and  occupied  by  some 
light  garden  crop  that  needed  frequent  hoeing, 
and  the  trees  now  bear  an  abundance  of  fruit 
A  good  share  of  the  unsatisfactory  pear  trees 
are  just  in  the  condition  of  those  above  cited — 
that  of  starvation  and  neglect.  Surface  manur¬ 
ing  and  mulching  would  have  produced  the 
same  effect,  and  it  is  not  too  late  to  apply  this 
remedy  now. — Another  matter  of  complaint  is, 
that  dwarf  pear  trees  are  disposed  to  make 
a  too  vigorous  growth  of  wood,  grow  out  of 
bounds,  and  cease  to  be  dwarfs,  while  they  bear 
little  or  no  fruit.  In  many  instances  this  ram¬ 
pant  growth  arises  from  the  fact  that  the  tree  ii 
set  below  the  junction  of  the  quince  and  pear; 
as  roots  strike  from  the  latter,  the  early  bearing 
quality  induced  by  growing  solely  on  quince 
roots,  is  lost.  If  trees  are  wanted  in  miniature, 


less.i 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


121 


they  must  be  kept  dwarf  by  a  persistent  course 
of  summer  pinching,  and  to  this  may  be  added 
root  pruning  as  described  on  pages  17  and  18, 
(Jan.)  of  the  current  volume.  Mr.  L.  B.,  of 
West  Nottingham,  Md.,  some  ten  years  ago 
came  into  possession  of  an  old  and  partly  neg¬ 
lected  orchard.  Since  taking  the  trees,  which 
were  from  20  to  25  years  old,  under  his  care, 
each  one  has  received  a  load  of  manure  yearly. 
Some  rows  of  potatoes  or  other  crop  demanding 
care  are  planted  between  the  trees,  not  for  the 
sake  of  profit,  but  to  ensure  the  cultivation  of 
the  ground.  The  result  is,  from  three  to  seven 
barrels  of  marketable  apples  from  each  tree, 
and  a  large  quantity  of  the  less  handsome 
fruit  is  made  into  cider.  While  all  through  his 
section  of  country  a  good  crop  of  apples  is  the 
exception,  his  crop  is  generally  abundant,  and 
xast  autumn,  which  was  not  generally  a  good 
Iruit  season,  he  gathered  about  1500  bushels  of 
fruit  from  four  acres  of  orchard,  the  trees  of 
•which  were  mostly  planted  40  feet  apart.  The 
necessity  for  manuring  trees  which  afford  a  crop 
year  after  year,  would  seem  to  be  so  obvious  that 
it  is  unnecessJfy  to  insist  upon  it ;  yet  a 
well  cultivated  orchard  of  any  kind  is  the  ex¬ 
ception,  and  not  the  rule  throughout  the  country. 
- —  w— — - - 

Plant  Currant  Bushes  this  Spring. 

1  "  ’ 

Strawberries  and  raspberries,  like  all  delicate 
and  delicious  things,  are  soon  gone  and  then  we 
fall  back  on  the  substantial  and  ever  refreshing 
currant.  This  fruit  is  so  healthful,  so  generally 
liked,  and  so  easily  raised,  that  no  farmer  nor 
any  one  who  has  a  garden  spot,  need  be  without 
it  as  long  as  the  season  lasts  for  it  in  the  fresh 
state,  and  an  abundance  of  preserves  can  be 
made  for  the  winter.  There  is  no  plant  more 
easily  grown  from  cuttings  than  the  currant. 
The  cuttings  are  best  set  in  autumn,  but  m.ay 
be  put  out  now  with  a  prospect  that  a  majority 
will  make  plants.  Six  inches  to  a  foot  of  the 
wood  of  last  year’s  growth  makes  a  cutting. 
Set  them  early  and  leave  one  eye  above  ground. 
Much  of  the  success  with  cuttings  depends  upon 
having  the  earth  closely  in  contact  with  them. 
Open  with  a  spade  a  shallow  trench,  deep 
enough  to  receive  the  cuttings,  set  them  six 
inches  apart,  and  put  on  a  little  soil,  and  then 
with  the  edge  of  a  board,  or  some  similar  im¬ 
plement,  crowd  the  earth  firmly  about  their 
lower  ends.  As  to  the  form  of  bushes,  they 
are  sometimes  grown  in  a  tree  form,  with  a  sin¬ 
gle  stem ;  or  vase  shaped,  with  several  stems 
arising  from  the  ground.  The  latter  form  is 
preferred  by  many  good  cultivators,  as  there  is 
less  difficulty  from  the  breaking  down  of  branch¬ 
es,  and  if  the  bush  is  kept  open  by  pruning,  good 
results  may  be  obtained.  The  subject  of  varie¬ 
ties  was  discussed  at  a  recent  Fruit  Growers’ 
meeting,  and  it  was  the  opinion  that  the  Cherry 
and  Versailles  were  the  best  for  red,  and  the 
White  Grape  the  best  white  variety.  The  Prince 
Albert  was  recommended  for  its  late  bearing. 


Starting  Vegetable  Seeds  in  Pots. — A 
Hundred  or  two  pots  will  cost  but  little.  A 
quantity  of  these,  filled  with  good  surface  soil, 
mixed  with  well-rotted  manure,  may  be  plant¬ 
ed  with  various  kinds  of  vegetable  and  flower 
seeds  some  w'eeks  before  the  open  ground 
is  warm  and  dry,  and  set  together  on  the  south 
or  east  side  of  a  building  or  fence,  where  they 
can  be  watered  a.«  needed,  and  covered  with  a 
blanket,  carpet,  or  straw,  on  cold  nights.  The 
plants  will  be  weii  up,  and  ready  to  plant  out 
as  soon  as  the  ground  will  admit,  and  two  to 


five  weeks  in  time  be  gained.  Small,  cheap 
pots,  with  one  plant  in  each,  are  most  desirable. 


Cranberries  in  the  Garden. 


In  reply  to  inquiries,  it  has  been  more  than 
once  stated  in  these  columns  that  we  had  seen 
no  attempts  at  growing  Cranberries  upon  dry 
soil  which  would  warrant  its  practice  upon  the 
large  scale.  That  Cranberries  will  grow,  and 
sometimes  bear  fairly  in  ordinary  garden  soil, 
we  have  no  doubt,  and  while  we  would  say  noth¬ 
ing  to  deter  those  from  making  the  experiment 
who  have  space  and  means,  we  have  consider¬ 
ed  it  a  duty  to  our  readers  to  caution  them 
against  those  interested  parties  who  would  ad¬ 
vise  them  to  plant  by  the  acre,  as  a  profitable 
investment.  That  some  variety  of  the  Cran¬ 
berry  may  be  so  far  changed  from  its  ordinary 
character  as  to  fruit  with  certainty  in  dry  soil, 
we  hope,  and  even  believe,  may  be  done,  but 
thus  far,  we  have  not  seen  this  desired  result. 
One  of  the  most  favorable  accounts  of  the 
garden  culture  of  the  Cranberry  is  given  by  Mr. 
B.  H.  Stevens,  of  Middlesex  Co.,  Conn.  Some 
years  ago,  he  planted  out  10  square  rods  of 
cranberries  in  his  garden,  where  the  soil  was 
rather  moist,  but  still  such  as  would  grow  corn 
and  potatoes.  The  bed  gave  a  return  of  one 
bushel  of  fruit  the  second  season,  which  increas¬ 
ed  each  year  until  the  crop  harvested  amount¬ 
ed  to  fourteen  bushels.  The  only  failure  was 
last  season,  when  the  drouth  reduced  the  crop 
to  one  bushel.  Mr.  Stevens  has  experimented 
with  many  different  varieties,  and  has  promised 
an  account  of  his  results,  which  we  shall  be  glad 
to  receive.  Those  who  wish  to  make  the  experi¬ 
ment,  should  procure  vines  from  the  drier  part 
of  bogs,  or  those  which  have  become  somewhat 
acclimated  by  cultivation  in  dry  localities.  The 
plants  should  be  set  in  a  moist  place,  about  a  foot 
apart  each  way,  and  kept  carefully  weeded  until 
they  take  complete  possession  of  the  ground. 


Notes  on  Strawberries. 

As  the  season  for  planting  is  now  at  hand, 
and  many  are  still  in  doubt  as  to  what  varieties 
they  shall  select,  we  shall  endeavor  to  aid  them 
by  brief  opinions  of  varieties  condensed  from 
remarks  made  at  some  of  the  recent  Fruit 
Growers’  Meetings.  It  is  to  be  regretted  that 
the  Triomphe  de  Gand,  which  has  so  many  good 
qualities,  has  in  some  localities  proved  a  total 
failure.  In  places  far  inland,  it  seems  to  succeed 
better  than  it  does  near  the  coast.  Mr.  Cavanagh 
places  the  Monitor  and  Brooklyn  Scarlet  very 
high  for  quality  and  productiveness.  The  Brook¬ 
lyn  Scarlet  will  doubtless  prove  a  good  market 
fruit,  as  its  brilliant  color  is  very  attractive. 
Doct.  E.  Ware  Sylvester,  of  Wayne  Co.,  N.  Y., 
regards  Burr’s  New  Pine  as  the  best  amateur 
berry.  This  variety  has  a  remarkably  high 
flavor,  but,  according  to  Dr.  S.,  it  is  very  difficult 
to  procure  true  to  name.  The  Austin  he  re¬ 
gards  as  a  profitable  berry  for  a  near  market, 
but  is  too  soft  for  distant  transportation.  Feast’s 
Fillmore  is  a  fine  variety  in  his  locality. 

Mr.  E.  Williams,  if  confined  to  but  one  vari¬ 
ety,  would  choose  Downer’s  Prolific,  which  is  of 
excellent  quality,  and  an  abundant  bearer,  and  a 
good  market  fruit.  It  continues  a  long  time  in 
bearing.  Judge  Vanderpool,  of  New-York,  ob¬ 
jected  to  Wilson’s  Albany,  at  the  present  price  of 
sugar,  the  fruit  being  so  acid  as  to  require  a 
great  amount  of  sugar  when  eaten.  He  had 
been  better  satisfied  with  the  old  Hovey’s  Seed¬ 
ling  than  with  the  newer  sorts  he  had  tried. 


Mr.  W.  S.  Carpenter  considered  that  the 
Hovey  had  had  its  day,  and  though  in  some 
seasons  it  bore  well,  it  must  give  place  to  better 
sorts.  Russell’s  Prolific  will,  in  his  opinion,  be¬ 
come  very  popular.  It  is  a  great  bearer,  but 
has  the  fault  of  not  holding  up  its  fruit.  He 
had  seen  nothing  among  the  new  varieties  that 
would  compare  with  the  “  Agriculturist,”  it  be 
ing  the  most  beautiful,  hardy,  and  the  greatest 
bearer.  Mr.  C.  thought  that  Lennig’s  White 
had  not  received  the  attention  that  its  good 
qualities  deserve.  It  is  the  best  white  variety 
5''et  introduced.  For  a  selection  for  family  fruit, 
he  would  choose  Wilson’s  Albany,  Russell’s 
Prolific,  Downer’s  Prolific,  and  Lennig’s  White 
from  among  the  generally  known  varieties,  but 
he  believed  the  “  Agriculturist  ”  would  prove 
itself  in  every  respect  superior  to  either  of  these. 

- ^ - - 

Some  Notes  on  Cabbages. 


Noticing  that  Mr.  Gregorj^  of  Marblehead, 
Mass.,  advertised  a  new  early  cabbage,  the  Can¬ 
non  Ball,  we  requested  some  account  of  it.  It 
is  to  Mr.  G.  that  we  are  indebted  for  the  Marble¬ 
head  Drumhead,  and  other  valuable  winter 
varieties,  and  from  the  excellent  qualities  of 
these,  we  look  with  interest  upon  his  attempts 
to  introduce  a  new  early  sort.  Of  the  Cannon 
ball,  he  says :  “  This  matures  about  10  days 
later  than  the  Early  York.  It  is  remarkably 
round,  hard-headed,  and  heavy  for  its  size, 
being  about  as  ‘round  and  hard  as  a  cannon 
ball,’  excelling  in  hardness  every  known  variety 
of  cabbage.  It  is  of  good  qualit}%  and  perfectly 
reliable  in  heading.  The  size  of  the  head  will 
depend  somewhat  on  the  soil,  manuring,  dis¬ 
tance  apart,  and  cultivation.  With  me  it  grows 
from  6  to  8  inches  in  diameter.  It  may  be  pro¬ 
nounced  a  first-class  cabbage,  among  the  early 
sorts,  for  market  purposes.  It  is  somewhat 
singular  that,  with  such  varieties  as  this,  and 
Winningstadt,  Earl}’  Wakefield,  and  Ox-heart, 
the  flabby  trash  called  Early  York  should  be 
cultivated  so  extensively.” — We  hope  that  none 
of  our  cabbage-loving  friends  will  forget  the 
Savoys.  They  are  so  different  from,  and  supe¬ 
rior  to  the  ordinary  cabbages,  that  English 
writers  treat  of  them  under  a  separate  head. 
To  those  who  do  not  know  them,  we  can  say 
that,  next  to  a  cauliflower,  a  Savoy  is  the 
richest  and  most  marrow-like  of  all  the  numer¬ 
ous  sports  of  the  cabbage.  It  is  a  remarkable 
vai'iety  of  the  cabbage,  with  its  leaves  very 
much  wrinkled  and  blistered,  and  in  point  of 
flavor  and  richness  is  vastly  superior  to  any  of 
the  drumhead  kinds,  while  in  hardiness  it  ex¬ 
cels  them.  The  original  Savoy  has  been  much 
improved  upon,  and  has  given  rise  to  many 
sub-varieties.  While  that  was  late,  small,  and 
uncertain  in  heading,  we  have  now  an  Early 
Savoy,  a  Late  Drumhead  Savoy,  and  the  Im¬ 
proved  Green  Globe  Savoy,  extending  the  sea¬ 
son  of  this  choice  class  of  cabbages,  and  giving 
us  all  that  is  desirable  in  regard  to  size  and 
certainty  of  heading.  While  we  would  have  a 
stock  of  the  Drumhead  sorts  for  slicing  raw,  we 
would  not,  for  cooking,  grow  any  for  family 
use  but  Savoys.  Whenever  the  soil  is  in  good 
condition,  the  seed  of  the  early  sorts  maj 
be  sown  this  month,  though  where  there  is  % 
hot-bed  the  plants  should  be  well  along  by  thi|' 
time.  In  garden,  as  well  as  in  fleld  culture,  cat^J 
bages  are  not  likely  to  do  so  well  on  land  thftl 
has  been  cropped  by  them  within  three  or  fotUf' 
years,  as  upon  a  fresh  spot.  Give  an  abundanc0 
of  good,  well-rotted  manure ;  that  from  tho 
hog  pen  answers  well  for  this  crop. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[April, 


The  Claytunia,  or  Spring  Beauty. 


Besides  the  Wood  Anemone,  figured  on  this 
page,  another  favorite  of  our  early  rambles  in 
the  woods  is  the  Spring-Beauty  {Claytonia  Vir- 
ginica).  This  genus  commemorates  the  name 
of  Clayton,  one  of  the  early  American  botanists. 
The  botanical  name  is,  in  this  case,  a  smoothly 
sounding  one,  and  we  wish  it  could  be  generally 
adopted,  as  we  like  to  have  the  memory  of 
those  old  fellows  kept  alive,  and  their  names 
pass  into  the  popular  language.  However,  the 
plant  merits  the  name  of  Spring-Beauty,  as  it  is 
just  as  pretty  as  a  flower  need  be,  and  were  it 
not  to  be  found  so  commonly  in  our  moist  w'oods, 
especially  at  the  West,  our  florists  w'ould  think 
as  much  of  it  as  they  do  of  Cyclamens  and 
other  exotics.  The  engraving  shows  its  under¬ 
ground  tuber,  from  which  arise  the  tw'o  long, 
narrow  leaves  and  slender  stem.  The  flowers 
are  of  a  pale  rose  color,  and  marked  %vith  deli¬ 
cate  veins  of  a  deeper  color.  It  belongs  to  a 
very  hardj^  family,  the  Portulaccas,  and  w'ould 
doubtless  make  itself  at  home  in  the  garden. 


Making  a  Lawn  or  Grass  Plot. 

What  a  carpet  is  to  well-furnished  rooms,  a 
^wn  IS  to  the  grounds,  be  they  large  or  small. 
As  tlie  finest  furniture  looks  finer  upon  a  well- 
bhosen  carpet,  so  every  plant,  whether  the 
l^umble  annual,  or  the  stately  evergreen,  shows 
all  the  neticr  w'hen  it  is  set  off  against  a  well 
kept  t'wf.  To  make  a  good  and  permanent 
lawn,  the  preparation  must  be  thorough. 
Drainage  is  a'l  important,  and  if  needed  for 
the  adjoiniuf  garden,  it  must  be  provided  for 


the  lawn.  The  pre¬ 
paration  of  the  soil 
must  be  as  carefully 
attended  to  as  if  for 
some  garden  crop. 

Trenching  must  be 
practised  on  small 
places,  and  deep  plow'- 
ing  on  larger  ones. 

By  the  use  of  a  sub- 
soiler,  or  by  running 
a  plow  twm  or  three 
times  in  the  same  fur¬ 
row',  sufficiently  deep 
tilth  may  be  secured. 

Manure  will  usually 
be  needed  to  enrich 
the  soil,  and  when  the 
work  of  preparation 
can  be  begun  suffi¬ 
ciently  long  before¬ 
hand,  a  crop  of  oats 
may  be  sowed  in  the 
spring,  and  plow'ed 
in,  to  be  followed  by 
one  of  buckwheat 
which  is  also  to  be 
turned  under.  Thor¬ 
ough  harrowing  is  re¬ 
quired,  and  all  inequalities  of  surface  must  be 
remedied,  by  the  use  of  the  shovel  or  scraper. 
In  small  plots,  the  final  dressing  of  the  surface 
can  be  done  with  the  hoe  and  r.ake.  Sow  the  seed 
as  early  in  spring  as  the  ground  can  be  made 
ready,  and  roll.  Mixtures  of  grass  seeds  are 
sold  by  seedsmen  as  law'n-grass  seed,  but  our 
experience  with  these  has  not  been  favorable. 
Some  consider  that  Red-top  and  White  Clover 
in  the  proportion  of  three  of  the  grass  to  one 
of  clover,  make  the  best  mixture  for  a  lawm. 
but  our  own  experience  agrees  with  those  who 
prefer  a  lawn  of  one  kind  of  grass  only.  Wher¬ 
ever  it  will  flourish  w’cll,  the  Kentucky  Blue 
Grass  (see  page  115)  forms  a  most  perfect  turf. 
Whatever  seed  is  used,  it  should  be  sown  very 
thickhq  as  the  closeness  of  the  sward  depends 
on  thick  seeding.  Three  or  four  bushels  of  seed 
to  the  acre  are  none  too  much.  It  often  helps 
the  grass  much  to  give  it  a  top  dressing  of 
plaster,  when  it  has  made  a  growth  of  one  inch 
or  so.  Weeds  w’ill  make  their  appearance 
from  seeds  already  in  the  soil,  and  from  those 
sow'n  with  the  grass  seed.  It  will  save  much 
after  trouble  to  remove  the  w'eeds  while  3'oung. 
When  the  fine  lawns  on  Central  Park  were 
first  established,  long  lines  of  men  could  be 
seen  upon  their  knees,  removing  every  weed 
that  sprang  up  among  the  young  grass.  When 
the  grass  has  become  well  established  and  of 
sufficient  length,  it  may  be  mowed,  leaving  the 
mowings  as  a  mulch  to  the  roots.  It  is  advis¬ 
able,  whenever  the  lawn  borders  on  a  walk, 
road,  or  flower-bed,  to  lay  down  an  edging  of 
turf,  six  or  eight  inches  in  width,  as  this  gives  a 
much  neater  appearance,  and  enables  us  to 
keep  the  edge  of  the  lawn  well  defined.  Small 
grass  plots  are  more  readily  made  by  laying 
close  and  fine  turf  from  an  old  pasture,  but  the 
same  care  should  be  given  to  preparing  and 
levelling  the  ground,  and  the  sod  should  be  laid 
in  a  neat  and  workmanlike  manner.  If  the 
piece  to  be  covered  is  not  very  large,  strips  may 
be  cut  to  reach  across  it.  Provide  a  board  9  to 
12  inches  wide,  and  with  a  sod-cutter,  or  a  sharp 
sp  ade,  cut  by  each  edge  of  the  board  through 
the  turf.  Then  loosen  the  strip  at  one  end, 
sliding  a  spade  under  it,  and  roll  it  carefully,  and 
convey  it  to  the  place  where  it  is  to  be  laid 


The  Wood  Anemone,  or  Wind-Flower. 


“  Do  tell  us  more  about  wild  flowers,”  writes 
a  correspondent,  who  is  enthusiastic  upon  the 
subject.  If  we  had  unlimited  room,  we  would 
gladly  devote  more  space  to  illustrating  the 
beautiful  natives  of  our  woods  and  fields,  but  as 
it  is,  few  can  be  described  aside  from  those  which 
we  can  recommend  for  cultivation  in  the  garden. 
The  request  shall  be  gratified  so  far  now  as  to  no¬ 
tice  two  of  our  earliest  and  most  beautiful  spring 
flowers.  The  Wind-flower,  or  Wood  Anemone, 
{Anemone  nemorosa),  is  always  a  fitvorite,  both  on 
account  of  its  early  appearance  and  its  delicacy 
and  gracefulness.  Its  name,  Anemone,  refers  to 
the  wind,  from  some  old  notion  that  it  opens 
only  when  the  wind  blows.  However  this  may 
be,  its  slender  habit  and  its  lightness  make  it  the 
sport  of  the  winds  of  spring,  and  it  might,  for 
this  reason,  if  for  no  other,  be  properly  called 
Wind-flower.  A  simple  stem  bears  three  deeply 
cut  leaves,  and  above  these,  on  a  slender  stalk, 
is  the  flower,  which,  before  opening,  is  a 
pretty  white  bell,  often  tinged  with  pink. 
Doubtless  the  flower  might  be  cultivated,  if 
proper  care  were  taken  to  give  it  a  suitable 
place,  but  we  much  prefer  to  leave  it  in  its  na¬ 
tive  -woods,  where  its  wild  look  is  more  in  keej-*- 
ing  with  its  surroundings  than  in  the  garden. 
The  other  flower,  the  Spring-Beauty,  is  figured 
and  noticed  in  the  left  hand  column  of  this  page. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


123 


How  to  Whitewash. 


Procure  fresh-burut  lime,  not  that  partly  .air-slaclc- 
ed.  The  large  lumps  are  best.  The  flue  portions 
and  small  lumps  will  not  make  a  wash  that  will 
stick  well.  For  this  reason,  lime  that  has  been 
burned  several  months  is  not  as  good  as  that  just 
from  the  kiln.  Put  a  pound  or  two  into  a  vessel, 
and  pour  on  boiling  water  slowly,  until  it  is  all 
slacked,  and  is  about  as  thick  as  cream.  Thcu  add 
cold  rain  water  until  it  will  flow  well  from  the 
brush.  Stir  often  when  using  it.  A  few  drops 
of  blueing  added  will  give  it  a  more  lively  color. 
One  or  two  table-spoonfuls  of  cle.an  salt,  and  one- 
fourth  pound  of  clean  sugar  to  a  gallon  of  the  wash, 
will  make  it  more  adhesive.  If  the  walls  have 
been  whitewashed,  let  them  bo  swept  thoroughly, 
and  if  colored  with  smoke,  wash  them  clean  with 
soap  suds.  A  brush  with  long,  thick  hair,  will  hold 
fluid  best,  when  applying  it  overhead.  If  a  person 
has  the  wash  of  the  right  consistence,  and  a  good 
brush,  he  can  whitewash  a  large  parlor  without  al¬ 
lowing  a  drop  to  fall.  When  it  appears  streaked 
after  drying  it  is  too  thick,  and  needs  diluting  with 
cold  water.  Apply  the  wash  back  and  forth 
in  one  direction,  and  then  go  cross-wise,  using  a 
paint-brush  at  tlic  corners,  and  a  thin  piece  of 
board  to  keep  the  brush  from  the  wood  work,  or 
the  border  of  the  paper.  Coloring  matter  may  be 
mingled  with  the  wash,  to  give  it  any  desired  tint. 
To  make  a  light  peach-blow  color,  mingle  a  small 
quantity  of  Venetian-red.  For  a  sk3’-blue,  add  any 
kind  of  diy,  blue  paint,  stirring  it  well  while 
mixing  To  make  a  wash  of  a  light  straw'-color, 
mingle  a  few  ounces  of  yellow  ochre,  or  chrome 
yellow.  The  coloring  matter  should  be  quite  tine 
to  prevent  its  settling  to  the  bottom  of  the  vessel. 


How  to  Paper  a  Wall. 

Hanging  wall-paper  is  light  and  easy  work, 
which  may  be  done  by  females,  as  w'ell  as  males, 
and  as  females  are  usually  neater  than  the  other 
sex  in  performing  such  manipulations,  they  should 
have  the  privilege  of  doi-ng  this  work,  instead  of 
calling  men  from  their  urgent  business.  The 
materials  necessary  for  papering  are  :  a  papering- 
board,  ten  or  twelve  feet  long  and  about  two  feet 
wide,  planed  smooth;  a  large  paste-brush,  a  pan  of 
paste,  a  pair  of  long  shears,  a  light,  straight-edged 
pole,  and  a  soft  brush-broom.  Now  take  a  roll  of 
paper,  and  measure  around  the  room,  to  ascertain 
how  many  whole  strips  are  required  for  the  walls. 
Cut  the  desired  number  of  strips  of  the  right 
length,  so  that  the  edges  will  match,  and  lay  them 
all  on  the  board,  with  the  wrong  side  up.  If  the 
wall  has  been  whitewashed,  sweep  it  thoroughly, 
and  wash  it  with  vinegar  and  water.  If  the  vinegar 
be  strong,  mingle  three  quarts  of  water  with  one 
of  vinegar.  When  the  wall  is  dry,  sweep  it  again. 
Previous  to  putting  on  the  paper,  paste  the  wall. 
Then  apply  paste  to  a  strip  of  paper,  and  turn  up 
the  lower  end  about  two  feet,  the  pasted  sides  to¬ 
gether,  and  hang  the  strip  as  quickly  as  possible. 
As  paste  expands  paper,  and  renders  it  tender,  it 
must  not  be  put  on  until  the  wall  is  re.ady  to  receive 
it.  When  the  paper  is  so  teuder  that  it  will  hardly 
hold  itself  together,  double  the  upper  end  of  a 
strip  over  a  smooth  stick.  Begin  in  one  corner  of 
the  room,  and  let  the  strip  hang  perpendicularly, 
ind  as  soon  as  it  is  right,  stick  the  top  fast  to  the 
w  all.  Instead  of  using  a  bunch  of  cloth  to  rub  it 
on  with,  sweep  it  on  with  a  soft  brush-broom,  by 
commencing  at  the  top,  and  sweep  downwards  and 
outwards  from  the  middle  of  the  strip.  A  bunch 
of  cloth  will  sometimes  blot  the  colors,  but  a  soft 
broom  will  not.  Run  the  back  of  the  shears  along 
the  upper  edge  of  the  base,  or  mop-board,  and  pull 
the  lower  end  of  the  paper  away  from  the  wall,  and 
cut  it  off,  and  afterwards  sweep  it  on.  When  a 
strip  does  not  hang  exactly  plumb,  take  hold  of  the 
bottom  and  pull  it  from  the  wall,  until  it  hangs 


only  by  an  inch  or  so  at  the  top.  Then  adjust  it, 
and  sweep  it  on  again.  When  there  are  uneven 
places  in  the  wall,  so  that  the  paper  will  not  adhere 
without  a  blister,  or  wrinkle,  cut  through  the  long 
way  of  the  blister,  and  sweep  it  on  again.  When 
turning  a  corner  of  a  room,  it  will  be  more  conve¬ 
nient  to  cut  a  sti  ip  of  paper  in  two,  lengthw.a3’s,  so 
that  the  joint  will  come  exactly  in  the  corner,  than 
to  attempt  to  put  on  a  whole  strip  by  bending  it  in 
the  corner.  After  alt  the  whole  strips  have  been 
put  on,  the  piecing  can  be  done  around  the  doors 
and  windows.  New  paper  can  be  pasted  over  the 
old,  if  that  be  on  firmly.  Otherwise,  it  should  be 
pulled  otf.  Sometimes,  by  washing  old  paper  with 
soap  suds,  two  or  three  times,  it  will  peel  off  with 
little  labor.  New  walls  need  not  be  pasted  pre¬ 
vious  to  papering.  It  is  better  to  apply  the  paste 
to  the  paper  than  to  the  wall  only,  as  dry  paper  is 
elastic,  and  will  not  adhere  until  it  has  become  wet. 


For  the  American  Agriculturist. 

Cheap  Socks.— Use  for  Old  Cloth. 


The  time  was  when  the  “  rag  bag”  was  an  insti¬ 
tution  to  be  found  in  every  family.  It  was  the  re¬ 
ceptacle  for  all  odds  and  ends  of  calico  and  other 
cotton  fiibrics.  According  to  my  best  recollection, 
the  rag  bag  was  almost  always  stuffed  full,  with 
the  fragments  of  its  contents  protruding  through 
the  rents  and  holes,  and  once  a  quarter  they  were 
emptied  out,  done  up  in  a  convenient  bundle,  and 
sent  to  the  store  to  be  exchanged  for  goods.  But 
now,  though  it  may  hang  in  its  accustomed  niche,  it 
contains  little  but  dust  and  lint  at  the  bottom,  the 
collections  of  the  last  quadrennium,  with  scarcely 
a  rag  big  enough  to  tie  around  a  sore  finger.  Not 
so  is  it,  however,  with  respect  to  woolen  rags. 
These,  in  the  shape  of  pants,  coats,  cloaks,  and 
“wrap-rascals”  gcner.ally,  being  unsuitable  for  the 
manufacture  of  paper,  and  no  one  feeling  rich 
enough  now-a-days  to  undei’take  a  rag  carpet,  have 
increased  during  the  last  four  years  to  an  alarming 
extent,  and  lie  in  heaps  in  the  kitchen  chamber, 
threatening  to  engross  the  whole  space  to  the  ex¬ 
clusion  of  every  thing  else.  Now  to  what  use  can 
these  garments  be  economically  applied  ?  I  answer, 
for  making  men’s  socks.  Above  is  a  reduced  pat¬ 
tern,  which  the  writer  prc|'ared  for  his  own  use. 
■Jne  pattern  answers  for  t>uth  feet,  1)3-  simpl3'  in¬ 


verting  it.  I  take  an  old  pair  of  pants,  rip  open 
the  two  outside  seams,  spread  out  the  cloth  on  the 
table,  lay  on  the  pattern,  and  cut  out  the  cloth, 
with  or  without  the  lining,  according  as  I  want 
warm  or  cool  socks.  Next  sew  the  two  edges,  a,  a, 
and  a,  a,  by  lapping  one  edge  upon  the  other,  and 
sewing  through  and  through.  This  makes  the  least 
objectionable  seam.  In  like  manner  sew  the  edge, 
b,  to  b  ;  c  ,  c,  to  s,  c  ;  d,  d,  to  d,  d  ;  c,  e,  to  «,  «  ; 

g,  g,  to  g,  g.  The  edges  /,  /,  are  not  sewed, 
but  folded,  one  over  the  other,  and  tied  with  strings. 
I  have  worn  cloth  socks,  made  as  above,  for  several 
weeks.  They  are  rather  light  for  winter  use,  but 
for  spring  and  fall  use  I  prefer  them  to  the  common 
knit  socks.  If  made  by  a  correct  pattern,  they  will 
not  wrinkle  under  the  feet,  .as  other  socks  do, 
especially  if  a  little  too  large.  It  is  not  claimed 
that  they  will  wear  as  long  as  socks  which  have  been 
knit, — though  their  wear  depends  a  good  deal  upon 
the  quality  of  the  cloth,— yet,  as  an  offset  to  this, 
the3'are  made  with  the  greatest  facility.  I  presume 
that  any  woman,  who  is  expert  with  the  needjc,  can 
cut  out  .and  sew  up  twenty,  and  perhaps  thirty 
pair  in  the  time  it  would  require  to  knit  one  pair. 
Knit  socks,  in  these  days  when  wool  is  worth  a 
dollar  a  pound,  cost  money,  but  socks  made  of  old, 
cast-off  garments,  which  have  no  exchangeable 
value,  of  which  a  whole  family  supply  for  a  yeai 
can  be  made  in  a  day,  may  be  considered  the  cheap 
est  article  of  apparel  that  can  be  worn,  es  pceially 
in  hard  times.  To  make  a  correct  pattern  for  a 
given  foot,  is  rather  nice  work,  yet  it  need  be 
made  but  once,  as  it  can  be  preserved.  O.  b. 

- - - - - - 

The  Fashions.— Comfort  and  Health. 


There  arc  happy  people  in  this  world,  living  in 
the  free  country,  so  far  from  busy  cities,  up-start 
villages  and  towns,  dull  and  fashionable  in  stagna¬ 
tion,  who  may  and  do  live  so  independent  of  the 
changes  of  the  fashions,  that,  except  when  they 
make  a  journey  out  of  their  happy  world  into  that 
ruled  by  “shoddy,”  and  Paris  milliners,  they  do  not 
know  or  care  what  the  fashion  is.  The  rest  of  uf 
are  compelled  to  heed  the  laws  of  this  tyranny,  01 
submit  to  the  worse  thraldom  of  the  feeling  th.at 
we  are  dressed  noticeably  unlike  other  respectabh 
people.  All  that  we  car,  do  is,  to  avoid  being  outri' 
in  dress,  and  clothe  01  rsclves  so  as  not  ‘:o  attrac\ 
attention  in  modifying  ihe  fashions.  Wc  may  over 
sometimes  dress  in  an  oid-lashioned  way  till  some 
especially  outrageous  .style  has  passed  avva3'.  Wt 
commend  the  following  sensible  view's  of  a  cor 
respondent  of  the  Independent : 

“The  dress  of  woman  will  never  be  rid  of  it# 
present  absurdities — its  cumbrousuess,  its  extrava¬ 
gances,  its  elaborate  nothings,  its  meaningless 
changes,  and  its  still  more  n.caningiess  attachment 
to  preposterous  styles — uu1;l  the  objects  to  be  se¬ 
cured  in  dressing  are  understood  and  placed  in 
their  proper  order.  These  are  (after  a  mere  protec¬ 
tion  to  the  body):  1st,  health;  2d,  comfort;  8d, 
beauty.  Of  two  styles  equally  healthful,  that 
which  is  the  more  comfortable  is  to  be  preferred; 
of  two  equally  healthful  and  comfirtablc,  the  more 
beautiful  should  have  the  preference;  but  we 
should  never  sacrifice  the  comfortable  to  the 
beautiful,  nor  the  healthful  to  the  apparently 
comfertable.  For,  although  an  unhealthful  dress 
is  never  really  comfortable,  yet  custom,  or  whim, 
will  often  make  a  person  insist  that  it  is  so ;  as  to 
those  unused  to  a  pure  atmosphere,  warm,  vitiated 
air  secerns  more  agreeable  than  cool,  pure  air. 

“These  rules  are  generally  inverted  in  woman’s 
dress,  and  yet  they  are  in  essence  the  same  ns  those 
applied  in  every  department  of  art  and  manufac¬ 
tures.  What  w’ould  be  thought  of  an  architect  w’ho 
should  sit  down  to  plan  a  church  with  but  the  one 
idea  of  beauty  in  his  mind  ?  What  kind  of  a  struc¬ 
ture  would  a  bridge  be,  if  the  primary  regard  were 
paid  to  making  it  agreeable  to  the  eye,  and  only  a 
secondary  or  remote  attention  given  to  the  uses  it 
was  to  subserve?  Yetehurches,  bridges,  furniture, 
machinery  arc  all  made  handsome  when  desired,  by 
adapting  the  ornamentation  to  the  object  orna¬ 
mented,  and  not  the  object  to  the-  ornaments.  8c 


1Q4 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


I  April, 


is  it  in  nature.  Every  blade  of  grass,  every  corolla, 
however  fine  its  texture  and  delicate  its  tint, 
answers  a  purpose,  is  made  for  some  eud,  and  must 
fiillill  that  end.  But  in  the  dress  of  woman,  it  is 
required  that  the  eye  be  satisfied  at  any  cost;  con¬ 
sequently  health  is  disregarded,  comfort  and  use 
unthought  of.  Yet,  notwithstanding  this  supreme 
regard — in  fact,  because  of  it — we  get  not  even 
be.auty  itself ;  for  that  apparel  is  beautiful  which 
sets  off  the  face  and  figure  to  advantage,  and  how 
will  our  common  fashions  stand  this  test  ?  How 
would  they  look  in  sculpture  ?  A  few  persons  have 
features  and  forms  so  fine  that  no  style  of  dress 
could  make  them  look  otherwise  than  attractive, 
while  some  others  have  such  exquisite  taste  that, 
whatever  the  style,  under  their  manipulations,  it 
seems  the  most  graceful  possible  to  be  worn  ;  but 
the  v.ast  majority  of  women  of  all  stations  fail 
utterly  of  grace  in  their  daily  dress,  and,  gaining 
neither  of  the  other  two  desiderata,  they  thus  se¬ 
cure  no  other  end  above  that  of  the  semi-eivilized 
—the  simple  one  of  having  the  body  covered. 

“  One  would  suppose  in  the  oppressive  number  of 
interests  at  the  present  day — amid  all  there  is  to  do 
and  to  learn  ;  all  there  is  to  see  and  to  hear;  all 
the  people  there  are  to  help,  and  all  the  books  to 
read — woman  would  like  that  which  is  so  strictly 
personal  as  their  own  garments,  to  combine  the 
greatest  amount  of  health,  comfort,  and  beauty 
with  the  least  outlay  of  time,  labor,  and  expense. 
Instead  of  that,  they  have  an  attire  which  sacrifices 
health,  is  entirely  inconsistent  with  comfort,  as 
boys  and  men  understand  comfort,  and  at  the  same 
time  requires,  to  make  it  presentable,  the  greatest 
possible  expenditure  of  thought,  work,  and  money. 
Is  this  a  consummation  devoutly  to  be  wished? 

“If  woman  h.ad  alwaj’s  w’orn  a  suitable  dress,  no 
sane  man  would  ever  think  it  worth  his  while  to 
speculate  whether,  such  and  such  alterations  chang¬ 
ing  it  entirely,  it  would  not  look  better.  He  would 
take  it  for  granted  that  an  ideal  dress  might  be  de¬ 
vised  for  some  ideal  being  that  would  show  off 
fabrics  finely,  but  he  would  recognize  that — given 
a  being  with  a  head  and  body,  two  arms  and  two 
legs,  intended  to  talk  and  walk  and  sew ;  to  cook, 
to  wash,  to  sweep ;  to  nurse  the  sick,  to  tend  the 
store,  to  keep  the  house ;  to  go  up  and  down  stairs, 
to  run,  to  sk.ate,  to  walk  out  in  rainy  weather;  in 
short,  in  the  pursuit  of  some  avocation,  to  use 
every  muscle  of  her  body,  and  use  it  to  the  best  ad¬ 
vantage — no  other  style  would  answer  the  purpose, 
and  he  would  never  .ask  for  any  other,  but  would 
rest  content  with  that  forever,  only  requiring  that 
it  should  be  so  modified  as  to  be  made  as  becoming 
as  possible  to  each  wearer.  As  it  is,  no  thought  is 
given  to  the  real  requirements  of  the  case.  Does  a 
milliner  sit  down  and  consider  that,  the  purpose  of 
a  bonnet  being  to  shield  the  head  from  the  elements, 
and  shade  the  eyes  from  too  great  a  glare  of  light, 
she  must  first  devise  a  frame  which  will  accomplish 
these  ends,  and  then  select  such  materials,  such 
colors,  and  such  ornaments  as,  combined,  will  har¬ 
monize  with  each  other,  and  suit  the  complexion, 
figure,  etc.,  of  the  person  for  whom  this  special 
head-gear  is  designed ?  Not  at  all;  but  she  says, 
“  People  are  tired  of  last  year’s  shape,  and  we  must 
have  a  change.”  So  she  pulls  out  here  and  pushes 
in  there,  has  her  cape  twice  as  large,  or  takes  it  off 
altogether ;  makes  the  “  ears  ”  longer  or  shorter, 
and  the  whole  more  distressing  and  useless,  if  pos¬ 
sible,  to  the  head  than  before  ;  and  forthwith  every 
woman  rushes  to  buy  a  bonnet  after  the  new  pat¬ 
tern.  Ex  uno  disee  omTies.  When  women  shall  have 
learned  in  time  to  put  the  objects  of  dress  in  their 
right  order,  there  will  be  seen  a  greater  revolution 
in  the  form  of  their  apparel  than  the  world  has 
yet  dreamt  of  in  its  philosophy.”  g. 

- - - - - - 

Tainted  Meat,  Fish,  or  Poultry. — 

The  following  directions  in  regard  to  the  use  of 
charcoal,  in  cookery,  arc  given  by  “  Perscrutatio” : 
“When  meat,  fish,  etc.,  from  the  heat  of  the 
weather,  or  long  keeping,  are  likely  to  spoil, 
powdered  charcoal,  sprinkled  over  it,  will  not 
only  stop  the  progress  of  putrefaction,  but  it  will 
iweeteu  that  which  has  already  become  tainted. 


If  meat,  or  fish  has  acquired  an  unpleasant  flavor, 
or  docs  not  smell  perfectly  fresh,  when  prepared 
to  boil,  by  tying  up  a  few  pieces  of  charcoal  in  a 
small  cloth,  and  putting  them  into  the  pot  while 
boiling,  it  will  remove  everything  disagreeable. 
The  addition  of  a  teaspoonful  of  saler.atus,  instead 
of  the  charcoal,  will  remove  any  unpleasant  taste 
or  smell,  unless  it  is  very  bad.  Poultry  some¬ 
times  becomes  tainted  by  being  kept  too  long ; 
to  make  it  sweet  and  good,  put  some  powdered 
charcoal  in  a  piece  of  cloth,  and  put  it  in  the  inside 
of  the  fowl  for  sometime  before  cooking:  it  will 
draw  out  all  the  bad  smell,  as  may  be  perceived  by 
smelling  the  cloth,  which  is  often  most  offensive.” 


Management  ot  Carpets. 

All  kinds  of  carpets  will  wear  much  longer  if 
fine  straw  be  spread  evenly  on  the  floor,  about  half 
an  inch  thick,  before  they  are  fastened  down. 
When  they  lie  on  the  bare  floor,  the  gritty  dust 
works  through  them  to  the  floor,  and  as  they  are 
pressed  down  on  and  among  it,  they  will  be  worn 
out  much  more  than  when  kept  up  from  it  by 
straw.  To  aid  in  drawing  carpets  close  up  to  the 
base  board,  preparatory  to  nailing  them,  drive  8  or 
10  sm.all  nails  into  a  piece  of  wood,  allowing  them 
to  extend  .about  three-eighths  of  an  inch  beyond 
the  surface,  similar  to  a  we.aver’s  stretcher,  and  file 
them  to  a  sharp  point.  With  such  an  instrument 
as  this,  having  a  long  handle,  one  person  can  thrust 
the  side  of  a  carpet  up  close  to  the  base  board,  and 
hold  it  with  ease,  till  it  is  nailed.  There  is  some 
scienee  also  in  the  manner  of  sweeping  carpets 
correctly.  Instead  of  inclining  the  handle  of  the 
broom  forward,  and  rolling  the  dirt  along  and 
pressing  it  mto  the  carpet,  by  bearing  down  on  the 
broom,  the  handle  should  be  held  nearly  erect,  and 
the  dirt  brushed  along,  by  touching  the  carpet  very 
lightly.  In  this  way,  both  broom  and  carpet  will 
be  worn  less,  and  the  sweeping  be  done  better. 


Soda,  Saleratus,  Quick  Yeast,  Baking- 
Powders,  etc.,  for  Bread-Making. 

The  question  is  asked  us,  how  one  may  know 
that  too  much  alkali  is  used  in  bread,  rolls,  or 
biscuit,  made  with  soda  and  other  alkaline  car¬ 
bonates.  Bread  which  is  yellow  at  all,  or  has 
that  peculiar  “soda-biscuit  odor”  (to  us  intensely 
disagreeable),  has  either  too  much  alkali,  or  not 
enough  of  acid.  Cream  of  tartar,  buttermilk, 
sour  milk,  molasses,  or  sour  dough,  each  contain 
an  acid  which,  when  it  unites  with  the  carbonate 
of  soda,  sets  carbonic  acid  gas  free ;  and  when  well 
stirred  into  a  dough  of  just  the  right  consistence,  it 
puffs  it  up  uniformly  and  makes  it  light.  The  art 
of  the  cook  is  shown  in  putting  in  just  enough,  and 
never  too  much  soda  for  the  acid  which  she  adds, 
or  which  the  dough  contains.  One  teaspoonful  of 
soda  should,  in  a  fresh  dough  for  bread,  or  a  batter 
for  cakes,  always  be  used  with  two  teaspoonfuls  of 
cream  of  tartar.  When  sour  milk,  or  molasses, 
or  anything  else  of  the  kind  is  used,  the  proportion 
must  be  guessed  at ;  but  always  guess  so  that  the 
soda  will  be  more  than  neutralized,  for  a  little  acid 
will  not  be  perceived,  while  an  excess  of  alkali 
gives  rise  to  dyspepsia  and  indigestion.  The  prin¬ 
ciples  upon  which  depend  the  rising  of  dough  have 
been  often  explained  in  these  pages.  Now,  there¬ 
fore,  we  only  say,  avoid  as  poison  yellow  bread, 
or  that  which  has  the  alkaline  odor.  Even  vinegar 
may  be  used  to  neutralize  soda,  when  other  prefer¬ 
able  acids  can  not  be  readily  obtained. 


Tallow  Candles. —If  people  must  use 
tallow  candles,  in  these  days  (nights  rather)  of 
bright  kerosene,  the  follorying,  from  our  corres¬ 
pondent  “  of  Macoupin  Co.,  Ill.,  may  throw 
some  light  (star-light)  on  how  to  make  good  ones. 
Mr.  Star  writes :  “In  return  for  hints  about  hard 
soap,  I  will  suggest  an  improvement  in  making 
‘tallow  candles.’  Double  the  wicks,  as  is  usually 
done,  and  twist  until  tolerably  tight,  then  w.ax  them 


with  beeswax,  so  they  will  not  untwist.  They  are 
then  ready  for  the  mould.  I  claim  that  the  candles 
will  last  much  longer,  and  will  give  a  brighter  and 
better  light,  resembling  sperm  candles.  Impurities 
in  the  tallow  will  not  affect  the  light,  as  is  usual.’’ 


Practical  Odds  and  Ends. 


Contributed  by  Subscribers  to  the  American  Agri- 
euUurist.  Please  send  plenty  more  of  the  same  sort, 

Hard  Pdttt  around  broken  window  panes  is 
quickly  softened  by  pouring  kerosene  oil  on  it. 

Putty  is  made  by  mixing  “  whiting”  with  linseed 
oil,  to  the  consistence  of  dough.  Every  farmer 
should  keep  a  supply. 

The  Cement  used  to  fasten  glass  lamp  burners 
in  place,  is  made  of  calcined  plaster  and  water. 
Mix  them  thin  and  apply  quickly,  as  it  “  sets  ”  soon. 
This  plaster  is  the  same  as  used  by  masons,  stereo- 
typers,  etc. 

A  Soldering  Iron,  which  is  not  iron  but  copper, 
is  a  convenient  money-saving  implement.  Practi¬ 
cal  instructions  for  its  use  were  given  in  the  Agri¬ 
culturist,  Vol.  18,  page  342.  (Nov.  number,  1859.) 

Frozen  Cream  should  be  placed  near  the  fire, 
gradually  thawed  and  then  allowed  to  become  very 
warm,  not  hot,  then  churn  it,  and  bring  the  butter 
easily.  The  churn  should  be  warmed  to  prevent 
chilling  the  warm  cream. 

To  Prevent  Flannel  Shrinking. — Put  it  into 
cold  water,  place  over  the  fire,  and  boil  half  an  hour. 

To  Remove  Fruit  Stains.— Dip  the  st.ained  part 
into  boiling  water,  and  hold  it  over  the  fumes  of 
burning  sulphur,  until  the  stain  changes  color,  then 
wash  in  clear  water.  Boiling  water  alone  will  re¬ 
move  many  fresh  stains,  especially  of  cooked  fruit. 


Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 


Sweet  A5>ple  Syrup. — Contributed  by 
Elizabeth  Carlton.  Nicely  wash  a  quantity’  ol 
sound  sweet  apples,  put  them  in  a  steamer  and 
cook  until  tender.  Then  press  out  the  juice  and 
boil  it  until  quite  thick.  For  many  uses  it  will  be 
found  greatly  preferable  to  New  Orleans  molasses. 

Potato  Soup. — Peel  and  slice  6  large  pota¬ 
toes,  boil  them  20  minutes  in  2  qu.arts  of  water. 
Then  mash  them  finely  in  the  water,  salt  to  the 
taste,  stir  in  a  heaping  tablespoonful  of  flour,  well 
beaten  in  a  tcacupful  of  cream,  and  add  about  2 
ounces  butter.  Let  it  cook  until  the  ingredients 
are  well  incorporated  together. 

Clieese  Omelet. — Butter  the  sides  of  a  deep 
dish,  cover  the  bottom  with  thin  slices  of  cheese 
place  upon  this  very  thin  slices  of  bread,  well  but¬ 
tered,  a  little  red  pepper  and  mustard,  another  layer 
of  cheese,  and,  just  before  put  in  the  oven,  beat  the 
yolk  of  an  egg  in  a  cup  of  cream  and  pour  into  the 
dish.  Bake  half  an  hour,  or  until  nicely  browned. 

Craclcers. — Contributed  by  E.  Allen,  Lake 
Co.,  O.  Take  3  teacupfuls  of  sweet  milk,  1  of  but 
ter,  13  of  flour,  4  teaspoonfuls  of  cream  of  tartar, 
2  teaspoonfuls  of  soda.  Dissolve  the  soda  and  a 
little  salt  in  the  milk,  put  the  cream  of  tartar  into 
the  flour,  and  also  rub  the  butter  into  the  flour, 
then  mix  with  the  milk.  Roll  very  thin,  prick  very 
thickly,  cut  into  squares,  and  bake  in  a  quick  oven. 

Potato  Yeast. — Contributed  by  a  subscriber, 
who  says  she  “  can  safely  recommend  it,  as  she 
never  uses  saleratus  for  raising  bread,  nor  has  any 
sour To  %  of  a  cup  of  hops,  add  1  quart  of 
water ;  when  boiling,  pour  it  on  one  cup  of  raw 
potato,  grated;  to  that  add  }4  cup  of  sugar,  cup 
of  salt,  and  when  cool  add  1  cup  of  yeast  to  raise 
it.  The  salt  in  the  yeast  seasons  the  bread  enough. 

Prying  Sqnasli  or  Pumpkin.— If 

squashes  are  wasting  by  dec.ay,  remove  the  seeds, 
pare,  slice,  and  put  in  a  kettle  with  a  little  water. 
Boil  until  the  water  is  out,  then  slowly  simmer 
and  stir  to  remove  all  the  moisture  possible 
without  burning,  and  spread  the  paste  half  an 
inch  thick  on  buttered  plates.  At  first  these  can 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


125 


be  set  in  tlie  stove  oven  with  the  doors  open,  tak¬ 
ing  care  when  it  is  almost  dry  not  to  let  it  burn. 
If  dried  too  slowly  it  may  sour.  Next  spring  or 
summer  this  will  make  as  good  pies  as  fresh  squash 
if  prepared  as  follows  :  Kinse  the  dried  squash  in 
cold  water  at  night,  pour  on  suftlcient  boiling  wa¬ 
ter  to  cover.  In  tlie  morning  simmer  a  few  min¬ 
utes  and  stir  until  all  seems  softened,  then  sift  and 
proceed  as  with  fresh  squash. 

Ualceil  SlDtI»1>nr«l  Squasl*. — Contributed 
by  T.  H.askell,  Essex  Co.,  Mass.  Cut  off  a  piece  at 
one  end,  sufficient  to  make  an  opening  to  admit  a 
spoon,  and  scrape  out  the  seeds  and  tlie  libers  sur¬ 
rounding  them.  Pour  h.alf  a  teacupful  of  water  in 
a  spider,  put  the  squash  in  open  side  down,  and 
bake  one  hour  in  an  oven  rather  hotter  than  is 
needed  for  loaf  bread.  Remove  from  the  oven, 
scrape  the  squash  out  of  the  shell  with  a  spoon,  and 
all  will  like  it  who  are  fond  of  sweet  potatoes. 


iB(DYS  <k 


About  tUc  MoBitb  of*  April. 


The  month  of  April  was  represented  by  the  ancients  as 
a  playful  dancing  boy  with  a  rattle  in  Ids  hand.  Chil¬ 
dren  are  easily  made  to  smile  or  to  cry,  and  the  figure 
was  therefore  quite  appropriate,  as  we  expect  sunshine 
and  rain  to  follow  each  other  in  quick  succession  during 
the  present  month.  The  name  April,  it  is  said,  is  derived 
from  the  Latin  word  aperire,  which  means  to  open,  and 
at  this  season  the  buds  and  blossoms  are  opening  under 
the  warm  sunshine  and  frequent  showers.  The  Dutch 
call  it  the  Grass  month.  It  will  be  interesting  to  our 
young  friends  to  observe  each  year  at  what  time  the  va¬ 
rious  trees  and  plants  in  their  neighborhood  first  open 
their  bnds,  and  to  write  down  the  dates.  See  how  much 
earlier  the  lilac  bush  in  the  front  yard  puts  forth  leaves, 
than  does  the  apple  tree  in  the  orchard  ;  .and  so  with  oth¬ 
er  shrubs,  trees  and  plants.  Such  a  record  kept  from 
year  to  year  will  sliow  the  comparative  earliness  of 
the  diffeent  seasons.  It  will  also  lead  the  observer  to 
notice  otlier  facts  about  vegetation,  all  of  which  will 
furnish  most  agreeable  employment  for  leisure  hours. 

The  first  day  of  April  is  known  as  April  Fools’  day.  and 
all  over  Europe,  as  well  as  in  America,  the  custom  pre¬ 
vails  of  sending  people  on  foolish  errands  or  playing  oth¬ 
er  practical  jokes,  an, I  then  laughing  at  the  viclims. 
How  this  singular  practice  originated  is  not  certainly 
known.  Some  think  it  first  prevailed  among  the  Hin¬ 
doos,  who  keep  up  similar  performances  .at  a  feast  called 
huli  ;  this  however  does  not  account  for  the  origin  of  the 
custom.  Others,  perhaps  with  more  truth,  say  it  is  kept 
up  in  commemoration  of  our  Saviour  being  sent  back  and 
forth  between  Herod  and  Pilate  at  the  time  of  his  trial. 
Whoever  attempts  to  play  a  trick  upon  another  sliould 
make  it  a  pleasant  one  ;  such  for  instance  as  was  carried 
Dut  by  a  party  of  young  men  on  a  poor  neighbor,  whose 
corn  needed  hoeing  badly,  while  he  was  sick.  Some 
twenty  of  tliem  assembled  one  fine  moonlight  evening 
and  by  10  o’clock  had  it  all  in  prime  order.  You  can 
Imagine  the  poor  man’s  feelings  a  few  days  after  when  he 
crawled  out  to  try  and  do  a  little  for  his  suffering  crop. 

Iflalcc  Friends  Amongj  the  Birds. 

Birds  can  provide  quite  well  for  themselves,  but  they 
are  very  thankful  for  any  assistance.  The  robin  asks 
only  to  be  let  alone  and  he  will  be  likely  to  choose 
some  snug  covert  in  the  branches  of  an  evergreen,  or 
other  thick  foliaged  tree  near  the  house  in  which  to  com¬ 
mence  housekeeping.  He  and  his  mate  may  be  made 
very  tame  by  frequently  scattering  bread  crumbs  and 
other  dainties  near  their  haunts.  They  have  been  ren¬ 
dered  so  familiar  by  such  means,  that  they  would  come 
when  called  and  feed  at  the  feet  and  in  some  cases 
from  the  hands  of  their  friends.  The  blue  birds  will  hunt 
all  about  the  premises  for  some  suitable  hollow  with  a 
narrow  opening  in  which  to  build  their  nests.  They 
some  times  choose  very  singular  dwellings.  An  old  boot 
jung  in  the  wood-house  was  for  years  a  favorite  nesting 
place  for  a  pair  of  these  birds.  A  workman  once  left 
his  coat  hanging  on  the  fence  in  a  back  lot.  Several 
weeks  after,  he  remembered  it,  but  found  other  claimants 
in  possession,  two  blue  birds  being  very  busy  rearing  a 
family  in  one  of  the  sleeves.  A  few  plain  boxes  with  en¬ 
trance  holes  just  large  enough,  placed  in  trees  or  on  the 
buildings,  will  attract  these  pleasant  visitors.  The  pert 
and  lively  wrens,  will  quickly  occupy  similar  accomma 
dations,  and  give  much  pleasure  with  their  sprightly 
songs  and  noisy  chatterings.  The  martins  go  in  flo^s 
and  will  require  larger  accommodations.  A  box  three 
leet  long,  six  to  nine  inches  wi.le  and  a  foot  high,  with 
openings  six  inches  apart  wil'  suffice  for  a  small 


colony.  The  barn  swallows  will  find  quarters  in  the  barn, 
if  openings  be  left  in  the  gable  end,  and  the  mud  swal¬ 
lows  if  undisturbed  will  make  quite  a  cornice  under  the 
eaves.  All  these  birds  will  work  faithfully  for  the  neigh¬ 
borhood  where  they  are  encouraged.  Moths,  caterpil¬ 
lars  and  worms  will  be  devoured  by  wholesale  where 
birds  abound,  and  the  music  they  make  will  certainly 
afford  more  pleasure  than  can  be  derived  from  shooting 
or  stoning  such  innocent  creatures.  If  our  young  read¬ 
ers  desire  feathered  pets  in  a  cage,  let  them  procure  a 
pair  of  Canaries,  which  have  always  been  accustomed 
to  such  a  life,  and  not  rob  the  free  field  birds  of  liberty. 
Perhaps  before  the  summer  is  over,  some  of  the  boys  or 
girls  will  have  plerrsant  stories  to  tell  of  their  success  in 
making  friends  with  the  birds  ;  we  should  be  pleased  to 
hear  and  if  of  enough  interest  to  publish  them. 

ISewati-e  of  a  Frevaleiit  Vice. 

Boys,  if  by  a  few  earnest  heartfelt  words  you  maybe 
induced  to  keep  clear  of  a  vice  now  fearfully  prevalent 
in  this  country,  it  will  be  worth  more  to  you  than  a  large 
present  in  money.  We  refer  to  the  iise  of  profane  lan¬ 
guage.  It  is  almost  the  only  sin  that  has  neither  excuse, 
pleasure,  or  profit.  Offensive  alike  to  God  and  good  men, 
it  marks  a  vitiated  taste,  a  want  of  refinement,  and  a  dis¬ 
regard  both  of  virtue  and  the  feelings  of  others.  Instead 
of  relieving  the  passion  of  anger  as  some  declare,  it  only 
strengthens  it  by  giving  it  expression.  If  it  be  urged  that 
it  is  a  habit  difficult  to  be  broken,  this  is  a  confession  that 
disregard  of  right  has  become  a  settled  part  of  the  char¬ 
acter.  No  boy  old  enough  to  know  the  meaning  of 
words,  utters  his  first  oath  without  a  shudder;  if  by  rep¬ 
etition  lie  is  able  to  swear  without  compunction,  it  is  not 
that  the  sin  is  less,  but  because  his  own  sense  of  right  has 
been  blunted;  the  crime  and  its  penalties  are  the  seme. 
Cut  the  habit  can  be  subdued.  Scarcely  a  boy  or  man 
will  use  profanity  in  presence  of  his  mother  ;  then,  if  he 
will,  he  can  restrain  it  at  other  times.  Let  every  boy  re¬ 
spect  himself  too  mucli  to  yield  to  this  habit,  but  rebuke 
profanity  wherever  heard,  by  expressive  silence  and 
a  good  example,  if  not  by  words. 

'B’liie  I5*liiy  ©f  ChariMlcs. 

This  amusement  is  quite  common  in  many  localities, 
but  may  be  new  to  some.  A  director  is  chosen  who  may 
employ  as  many  assistants  as  he  needs.  They  retire 
from  tlip  room,  and  select  some  word  w  hich  is  to  be  acted 
out.  part  at  a  time,  or  otherwise,  in  presence  of  Hie  com¬ 
pany.  and  the  spectalors  are  to  discover  the  word  from 
the  acting.  Thus,  suppose  the  word  “Alternate”  be 
chosen.  The  director  may  come  in  and  make  on  a  slate 
or  paper  a  large  figure  8;  then  each  of  his  assistants 
turns  eight  over  :  that  is  all  turn  eight  (alternate).  The 
word  "Intemperance"  may  be  divided  into  four  parts 
or  acts.  The  first  to  represent  a  scene  .at  an  inn  ;  next  a 
display  of  temper,  then  a  meeting  of  aunts,  and  finally 
a  representation  of  the  whole  word,  by  a  person  feigning 
intoxication,  etc.  If  the  words  are  well  chosen.  :tnd  the 
actors  ready  with  suitable  impromptu  dialogues,  tins  play 
may  be  made  very  entertaining,  and  often  instructive. 

A  4jSood  Hint  tor  tlie  Boysnnd  Cnirls. 

.M  iss  “Hattie”  W'rites  to  the  American  Agriculturist . 
“Sweeping  is  unpleasant  and  unhealthful  work.  Dust 
was  not  made  to  be  breathe. I.  Now,  nearly  or  quite  half 
the  usual  amount  of  sweeping  can  be  avoided.  How? 
Keep  tlie  litter  and  mud  out  of  the  house.  Do  not  bring 
it  in  on  your  shoes  :  then  it  will  not  have  to  be  pushed 
out  with  a  broom.  The  next  time  you  go  to  a  neighbor’s 
keep  your  shoes  as  clean  as  possible,  but  if  you  get  them 
muddy,  look  for  a  scraper  and  mat  to  wipe  them,  and 
if  you  can  find  none,  don't  go  into  the  liouse  unless  it  is 
necessary  ;  do  your  errand  at  the  door,  and  say,  “  my 
shoes  are  muddy,  I  will  not  go  in  ?”  If  you  are  particu¬ 
lar  to  clean  your  shoes,  other  boys  and  men  will  be  so, 
when  they  come  to  your  house.  Anl  as  the  price  of 
brooms  is  now  very  high,  you  may  save  as  much  as  three 
cents  a  week  on  the  wear  of  them,  just  by  keeping  your 
shoesclean  ;  I  think  you  will  save  more  tlian  thaton  your 
shoes,  for  the  cleaner  they  are  kept  the  longer  they  last. 
The  mud  takes  the  oil  from  them,  renders  them  very 
hard  and  unpleasant  to  the  wearer,  they  will  soon  crack, 
and  vou  must  have  a  new  pair.  Now,  instead  of  all  this 
trouble  you  cause  your  mother,  in  removing  dirt  by 
sweeping  show  her  that  you  can  do  something  to  lessen 
her  labors  by  learning  to  be  always  neat  and  tidy.” 

Damaged  Glass. — F.  S.  Mitchell,  sends  the  fol¬ 
lowing  to  the  American  Agriculturist,  His  man  Sam 
and  wife  were  unpacking  a  box  of  glass  fruit  jars.  While 
taking  them  out  one  by  one,  Sam  would  say,  “  Here  is 
a  good  one,”  or  “  This  one  is  broken,  or  cracked,”  as  it 
happened  to  be.  He  found  one  that  had  been  somewhat 
flattened  on  one  side  in  making  it.  He  says,  “Here  is 
one  that  is  not  cracked,  but  is  badly  bruised,"  He  evi¬ 
dently  dill  not  understand  the  nature  of  glass. 


An.S'wers  to  Problems  aud  Pazzlet*. 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
Mareh  number,  page  89.  No.  12i,  Illustrated  Rebus, — 
Awls  weal  th  at  ends  well,  or  “  All’s  well  that  ends  well.” 
No.  125.  Mathematical  Problem, — Diameter,  173.2  ft.  , 
Whole  area,  985.8  ft. ...No.  126.  Curious  Word, — The 
word  "  Written," ....'No.  127.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Rebel 
lion  will  B  over  throne  and  piece  re  T  urn  two  cheer 
our  country  ;  or  Rebellion  will  be  overthrown,  and  peace 

return  to  cheer  our  country _ No.  128.  Abbreviation. — 

R.  U.  L No.  129.  Anagrams. — \,  Merchandise ;  2,  Sur¬ 
geon  ;  3,  Reformations  ;  4,  Conversation  ;  5,  Locomotive  ; 

6,  Transmission _ No.  130.  Conundrum. — The  Jin  it 

(finis) _ No.  131.  Mathematical  Problem. — 60.16  ft.  to 

one  corner,  64.34  ft.  to  each  of  the  others  —  No.  132. 
Ethical  Mathematics. — The  preponderance  of  truth  is  in 
C’s  favor. ...No.  133.  Charade. — Mad-a-gas-car. .  ..No. 
134.  Puzzle.— C  (lOO)-I  (1)-V  (5)-I  (D-L  (50).=Civil..  .. 
The  following  sent  correct  answers  up  to  March  10th  : 
E.  Prevost,  124 ;  R.  H.  Wilson,  jr.,  127  ;  Harry,  132  ;  M. 
E.  Waring,  124,  127, 145  ;  Eddie  Shelden,  128  ;  Augusta 
Brigham,  117.  128,  133  ;  Arthur  Shriver,  124,  127,  128,  130, 
132,  133,  134  ;  “Subscriber,”  124,  127,  128,  130,133,  134  ; 
Lucy  R.  Weeks,  124,  125,  127,  128,  130,  133,  134  ;  Robt.  G. 
Weeks,  127,  12S,  130,  133  ;  George  F.  Weeks,  127,  128  , 
Budgar,  124,127,  128,  130,  133,134;  Jas.  H.  Chidlaw,  12-7 
D.  Sheaffer,  124,  126,  127,  128,  129, 130,  131,  134  (well  done). 

New  Puzzles  to  be  Answered. 


No.  135.  Illustrated  Reiuj.— Something  to  remember. 


No.  136.  French  Riddle. — Je  suis  capitaine,  de  vingt- 
quatre  soldats.  Sans  moi  Paris  serait  pris. 


No.  137.  Latin  Sentences  for  translation. — 1,  Equus  est 
in  stabulo,  sed  non  est.  2,  Mea  mater  sus  mala  est.  3, 
Pugno  pugnas  nugnat. 


Fig.  1.  Fig.  2. 


No.  138.  Illustrated  Rebuses. — Fig.  1,  A  French  sen¬ 
tence.  Fig.  2,  Advice  for  business  men.  What  are  they  ? 

No.  139.  Charade. — My  first  denotes  company  ,  my 
second  shuns  company  ;  my  third  calls  company,  and  my 
whole  delights  company.  What  is  it  ? 

No.  140.  Conundrum. — What  light  is  most  generally 
diffused  throughout  the  world? 


No.  141.  Word  Puzzle. — Behead  a  small  wild  animal, 
and  leave  a  large,  strong  useful  domestic  one. 


No.  142.  Illustrated  Rebus. — An  important  truth. 

No.  143.  Geographical  Names. — 1,  Part  of  the  body  and 
a  small  pond.  2,  Men  of  high  rank  and  a  weight.  3, 
Strife  and  a  tool.  4,  A  lady,  a  taste,  and  a  pie. 

No.  144.  Philosophical  Question. — Suppose  the  earth 
to  cease  its  annual  motion  around  the  sun,  but  continue 
its  daily  revolution.  Would  it  be  necessary  to  lengthen 
or  shorten  the  pendulum  of  our  clocks  to  make  them  keep 
correct  time?  Why? 

No.  145.  Geographical  Question. — At  what  line  on  tha 
earth  does  the  Christian  Sabbath  begin  ? 

No  146.  Planting  Problem. — How  may  twenty-four  tree* 
be  planted  in  eighteen  rows,  with  four  trees  in  each  row  T 


130 


1  Afkii,, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


“DON’T  LIKE  TO  BE  WASHED!  ” — 'Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


i^'o  Eliiucl  fi.ike  sv 


This  [)ic-tuie  ceiluinly  speaks  for  itself;  at  le;ist  the 
little  fellow  wlio  is  v:uiily  stniggliiig  to  esc;ipe  liis  iiiorii- 
Ing  bath  is  S(ie:ikiiig  for  himself  most  lostily.  It  looks 
like  ;i  little  thijig  to  make  such  a  fuss  about,  but  to  him  it 
Is  a  serious  matter.  The  water  is  cold,  he  dreads  the 
shock  it  will  give  him,  but  that  is  not  all ;  he  is  not  in  the 
hands  of  his  mother.  She  would  manage  it  so  gently  and 
pleasantly,  that  it  \\oi:ld  almost  be  a  frolic  for  him  ;  but 
the  servtmtgirl  is  rough  and  careless,  and  seems  to  enjoy 
nis  struggles.  There  is  no  h;ind  like  a  m  ither’s.  A  story 
is  told  of  a  youiig  soldier  who  lay  sick  in  one  of  the  hos¬ 
pitals.  Ills  mother  lefi  her  distant  home  to  nurse  him, 
and  arrived  at  the  hospital  at  night.  She  was  told  that 
her  boy  was  sleeiiing.  that  she  must  not  disturb  him.  “Let 
me  only  sit  by  him  and  watch  him,”  she  pleaded.  The 
request  was  granted.  The  boy  lay  in  a  feverish,  une<asy 
slumber,  and  the  mother  gently  passed  her  hand  over  his 
forehead.  “  Whose  liand  is  that?”  he  eagerly  exclaimed  ; 
“it  feels  like  my  mother's.”  He  knew  the  touch  of  affec¬ 
tion  that  had  often  before  soothed  liim.  It  was  better  than 
medicine  and  aided  in  bringing  back  his  wonted  health. 

A  tlitnniii^  Oltl  ISat. 

A  Connecticut  subscriber,  “  F.  G.  II.,”  sends  to  the 
American  Agriculturist  an  extended  account  of  tlie  art¬ 
ful  proceedings  of  a  rat,  the  substance  of  w  hich  we  give 
below.  lie  first  attracted  notice  by  diving  through  the 
wall  paper  with  wliich  an  opening  had  been  covered.  A 
trap  was  set  at  night  to  capture  him.  It  was  of  the  kind 
in  which  a  stout  wire  moved  by  a  spring,  flies  down  upon 
the  animal  and  drives  him  upon  sharp  spikes.  It  was 
carefully  baited  with  a  kernel  of  corn,  so  that  a  slight 
touch  would  spring  it.  The  rat.  however,  succeeded  in 
removing  the  <-orn,  leaving  the  spring  undistuibed.  The 
next  nieht  several  kernels  were  strung  upon  strong  linen 
twine.  ;in'i  tied  to  the  catch.  In  the  morning,  the  siring 
w;is  cut,  the  corn  gone,  and  the  rat  loo.  A  piece  ol  cat¬ 
gut  wans  substituted  for  the  sti  ing,  but  with  the  same  re¬ 
mit.  Then  a  bit  of  copiier  wire  was  used,  and  the  shrewd 


old  fellow  wouldn't  meddle  with  it  at  all.  Finally  the 
trap  was  baited  w  ith  a  keinel  of  corn,  and  a  shingle  laid 
with  one  end  resting  on  the  catch, so  that  the  rat  must  step 
U|ion  it  to  reach  the  bait,  which  would  let  the  spring  go. 
This  proved  too  much  for  his  cunning,  and  the  next 
mortung  lie  was  found  caught  by  the  neck,  having  paid 
the  penalty  of  his  numerous  offences.”— There  are  other 
recorded  instances  of  intelligence  and  cunning  on  the 
part  of  rats  that  would  almost  seem  to  indicate  the  pos¬ 
session  of  reasoning  powers.  Our  young  friends  will 
find  both  interest  and  instruction  in  studying  the  acts  and 
habits,  not  only  of  rats  but  of  many  other  familiar  animals. 

Blarry’s  Most  Sueccsslitl  Eflbrt. 

Contributed  to  the  American  Agriculturist  hx  "Lizzie 
Nevins  :  All  through  one  fine  October  day,  Harry  Nash 
had  followed  the  plow  up  the  lot,  and  down  the  lot,  be¬ 
hind  the  old  farm  horses,  and  now  as  the  sun  was  setting 
he  was  getting  so  foot-sore  and  weary  that  several  times 
he  nearly  fell  asleep  in  his  monotonous  walk.  “  There 
goes  the  liorn  at  last,”  he  exclaimed,  as  the  welcome 
sound  broke  the  stillness.  Harry  did  not  wait  to  listen  to 
its  echoes,  but  quickly  “  turning  out”  he  soon  presented 
himself  at  the  supper  table,  looking  tired,  it  is  true,  but 
with  a  cheerful  face,  made  more  bi  ight  and  shining  from 
an  intimate  acquaintance  with  soap  and  water,  and  a 
coarse  towel.  “  You  have  got  over  quite  a  large  strip 
to-day,  my  son,”  said  Mr.  N.  kindly,  as  he  helped  Harry 
to  the  plain  but  wholesome  fare  with  w  hich  the  table  was 
spread.  The  boy  looked  pleased  w  ith  this  commendation, 
but  said  ingenuously,  “  I’m  afraid  I  haven’t  accomplished 
much  for  the  last  hour  or  two  ;  I  was  so  tired  I  could 
scarcely  walk.”  “  On  the  contrary,”  said  his  father,  “  I 
think  you  acccomplished  more  in  the  last  two  hours,  than 
during  all  the  rest  of  the  day.”  Harry  opened  his  eyes 
in  astonishment,  as  he  called  to  mind  the  straight,  neat 
furrows  of  which  he  was  so  justly  proud  in  the  early 
morning  hours,  and  contrasted  them  silently  with  the 
shallow  and  uneven  track  he  was  leaving  behind  him 
when  called  to  supper.  Mr.  Nash  enjoyed  his  son’s  per¬ 
plexity  for  a  while  and  then  said,  “  I  will  tell  you  a  short 


story  to  illustrste  my  mean 
ing.”  Harry  brightened  up 
“  Not  long  since.”  conlim.etj 
his  father,  “a  gentleman 
bought  a  book,  feeling  sure 
it  would  be  both  interesiinf 
and  useful  to  his  son  am 
daughter  at  home.”— Harrj 
moved  a  little  uneasily  oa 
his  seat. — “  Carrying  it  hom« 
he  presented  it  to  them  with 
the  remark,  ‘Read  this  my 
children,  and  give  me  your 
opinion  of  it.’  ‘  0  yes  father, 
thank  you,’  they  both  ex¬ 
claimed,  ‘  We  shall  surely 
be  delighted  w  ith  it.’  A.ud  so 
they  were.  Now  the  young 
lady  was  passionately  fend 
of  reading  ;  it  was  ther-fore 
but  a  pleasure  to  her  to  sit 
down  and  read  the  book  be¬ 
fore  she  slept,  and  she  gave 
her  father  her  opinion  of  the 
work  next  morning  in  glow¬ 
ing  terms.’  Harry  glanced 
at  his  sister  and  laughed. 
“  The  son,  on  the  other  hand, 
though  always  pleased  to 
listen  to  reading.w  as  seldom 
ready  to  take  a  book  and 
master  its  contents  for  him¬ 
self.  I  suspect  he  was  natur¬ 
ally  a  little  indolent.  But 
now  he  said  to  himself  '  my 
father  has  kindly  given  me 
this  nice  book,  and  wishes 
me  to  read  it,  and  I  will—’ 
am  determined  I  will.’  A 
duty  attempted  in  earnest, 
brings  its  sure  reward,  and 
this  boy,  although  he  fell 
asleep  over  the  first  chapter 
once  or  twice,  soon  became 
interested,  and  actually  fin¬ 
ished  the  book  in  a  week, 
well  pleased  with  his  suc¬ 
cess.  Now  my  son,”  contin¬ 
ued  Mr.  Nash,  “wherein 
lies  the  greater  virtue,  in  the 
act  of  the  young  lady,  who 
swallowed  the  interesting 
volume  at  one  silling,  or  in 
that  of  the  boy  w  ho  conquer¬ 
ed  his  natural  indolence,  and  laboriously  mastered  the 
book  recommended  by  his  father?”  It  was  amusing 
to  witness  the  various  changes  which  passed  rapidly 
over  Ilarrv's  face  during  this  recital.  At  the  closing 
question,  he  looked  up  quickly  and  exclaimed  “I  haven’t 
read  the  book  yet.”  “  0 1”  said  Mr.  Nash,  “  Wife, 
where  is  the  milk  pail  ?”  and  rising  he  took  the  pail 
from  that  lady’s  hands,  and  went  to  milk  the  cows. 

IjOoIc  OhS  loi*  tlse  IPoiiif. 

The  old  fable  of  Achilles  should  be  remembered  by 
every  boy  and  girl  of  whatever  age.  The  ancients  said 
that  w  hen  he  was  a  babe,  his  mother  held  him  by  one 
heel  and  plunged  him  into  the  river  Styx,  which  made 
liiin  invulnerable,  except  the  small  place  on  his  heel 
w  hich  her  hand  kept  from  being  wet.  He  became  a  noted 
warrior,  and  as  no  weapon  could  wound  his  body,  he 
made  great  havoc  among  his  enemies  ;  no  one  could  stand 
before  him.  But  at  last  one  of  his  foes  finding  out  his 
weak  point,  shot  him  in  the  heel  with  a  poisoned  arrow, 
which  caused  his  death.  If  Achilles  had  properly 
guarded  his  heel,  he  might  have  escaped  such  a  fate. 
Every  person  has  some  weak  point,  very  few  have  only 
one.  Here  are  two  illustrations.  Thomas  is  a  cheerful, 
sprightly,  wide  awake  boy,  ready  for  any  kind  of  work 
or  play,  a  favorite  with  all  his  companions  ;  but  he  is 
fond  of  change.  He  does  not  stick  to  a  thing  until  it  is 
finished.  He  is  ready  to  run  after  every  novelty.  This 
is  his  weak  point  which  will  prevent  him  from  ever  hav¬ 
ing  much  success  in  life.  Susan  is  very  pretty,  very 
pleasant,  neat  as  a  pink,  and  a  great  help  to  Irer  mother; 
yet  she  has  a  very  weak  place  in  her  character.  She  is 
vain  :  she  loves  to  display  her  good  looks  and  accom¬ 
plishments,  and  is  always  seeking  a  compliment.  She 
is  fond  of  showy  dress  and  jewelry,  and  of  w  hatever  will 
attract  attention  to  herself.  This  feeling  may  prove  her 
ruin  ;  thousands  have  lost  honor  and  happiness  by  such 
a  weakness.  What  is  yotir  weak  point?  Impatience? 
Angry  passion?  Indolence?  Exaggeration?  Stub- 
borness  ?  Negligence?  Whalever  it  may  be,  give  II 
especial  attention  at  once  and  try  to  correct  the  falling. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


197 


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APSa>  FlSailT  in  a 

mild  and  healtiiful  climate.  Tlilrty  miles  south  of  Phlla. 
delpliia  liy  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soil  is  i-icli  and  productive,  varying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wheat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orcliards  have  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
Immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  improvements.  Tlie  land  is  only  sold  tc 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  th£  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  has  in¬ 
creased  live  tliousand  people  within  the  past  three  yeara. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamics,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
It  is  estimated  that  five  liundred  will  be  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  in 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business,  I.uralier  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  tlie  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  Iiealtlifiil  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  heautifnlly  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  otlier  social  privileges,  in  tho 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  tlie  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we.  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies, 


1Q8 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[APHlIi, 


A  Novel  Enterprise. 


Upon  the  line  of  the  Cape  May  Railroad  one  of  the 
largest  enterprises  of  this  most  active  period  is  thus  re¬ 
ferred  in  a  new  work— “  How  to  Get  a  Farm  and  Where 
to  Find  One,”  by  the  author  of  “  Ten  Acres  Enough.” 

As  it  has  uniformly  been  in  the  West,  on  the  opening 
cf  a  new  railroad,  so  it  was  in  New  Jersey  on  the  open¬ 
ing  of  that  from  Camden  to  Atlantic  City.  Enterprising 
men  were  drawn  to  the  region  thus  inviting  specuiation, 
investment  and  improvement.  They  brought  capital, 
skill  and  energy,  and  quickly  made  an  impression.  Among 
the  earliest  and  most  thorougii  going  of  these  was  Mr. 
Charles  K.  Landis,  of  Lancaster,  Pennsylvania.  This 
gentleman  was  impressed  with  the  great  value  and  avail¬ 
ability  of  organized  colonization.  He  secured  five  thous¬ 
and  acres  on  the  railroad  at  Hammonton,  and  in  1838  his 
colony  was  fairly  under  way.  His  ideas  w  itli  lespect  to 
colonization  appear  to  have  outstripped  all  others  for 
comprehensiveness,  whilst  his  plans  weie  definite,  prac¬ 
tical  and  liberal.  He  sold  to  none  but  actual  settlers, 
telling  the  mere  speculators  to  go  elsewhere,  and  gave 
special  encouragement  to  fruit  growing.  He  introduced 
the  New  England  School  system,  and  kept  out  the  sale 
of  liquor. 

He  laid  out  streets  and  roads,  and  in  other  ways  ex¬ 
pended  money  liberally  in  promoting  the  welfare  of  the 
settlers.  These  were  of  the  best  class,  principally  from 
New-England ;  Intelligent,^  tasteful  and  industrious. 
Home  manufactures  of  various  kinds  were  introduced, 
churches  and  scliool-houses  were  built,  good  crops  were 
yielded  to  the  farmer,  and  a  general  prosperity  prevailed 
which  astonished  all  who  witnessed  it.  The  settlement 
speedily  numbered  two  thousand  persons,  who  now  pro¬ 
duce  more  food  than  they  need,  and  ship  large  quantities 
to  New-York  and  Philadelphia. 

The  experience  acquired  in  settling  Hammonton  en¬ 
larged  tlie  views  of  Mr.  Landis,  showed  him  his  omis¬ 
sions  and  mistakes,  and  gave  him  ideas  which  he  consid¬ 
ered  so  valuable  that  he  determined  to  carry  them  out 
on  a  wider  field.  Accordingly,  in  1861  he  secured  25.000 
acres  in  one  body  in  Cumberland  county,  all  in  the  same 
wild  and  uncultivated  condition.  This  tract  of  waste 
land  lay  on  the  then  newly  opened  railroad  from  Camden 
to  Cape  May,  passing  through  Milville  and  Glassboro’. 
It  covered  an  area  of  forty-five  square  miles,  with  the 
lailroad  passing  tlirough  it,  and  was  within  thirty-five 
miles  of  Philadelphia.  This  settlement  he  named 

VINELAND. 

In  this  great  undertaking  his  plan  was  to  establish  a 
perfect,  regular  and  comprehensive  system  of  public  im¬ 
provement,  for  the  benefit  of  the  community  to  be  tliere 
located  ;  to  found  a  town  in  connection  with  and  as  an 
adjunct  to  an  agricultural  settlement ;  to  develop  therein 
a  system  of  home  manufactures  and  industry  ;  to  promote 
religion,  morals  and  a  higli  standard  of  education,  and  to 
provide  homes  for  intelligent  and  worthy  families  who 
might  be  seeking  them. 

It  was  a  gigantic  project,  such  as  no  other  individual 
in  this  country  had  ever  undertaken  to  carry  out.  It  re¬ 
quired  experience,  incessant  personal  attention,  great 
admimstrative  and  engineering  ability  and  the  expendi¬ 
ture  of  a  large  capital.  There  have  been  owners  of 
tracts  as  large,  but  none  who  undertook  to  transform  them 
from  a  desolation  into  a  populous  community.  The  lay 
of  this  land  was  such  as  to  admit  of  its  being  plotted  out 
as  the  owner  desired.  There  were  no  rocks  to  blast,  no 
mountains  to  remove,  no  unwholesome  swamps  to  drain 
or  to  fill  up.  He  began  the  enterprise  amid  the  gloom 
which  overspread  the  public  mind  immediately  after  tlie 
outbreak  of  the  slaveholders’  Rebellion.  His  friends 
predicted  difficulties  and  discouragements,  while  all  ad¬ 
vised  him  to  wait  before  commencing  such  an  undertak¬ 
ing. 

But  his  confidence  was  not  to  be  shaken  ;  he  knew 
that  the  very  convulsion  against  which  his  friends  were 
warning  him,  was  one  of  those  wliich,  of  all  others,  in¬ 
duce  men  to  look  for  pecuniary  safety  by  purchasing 
land. 

In  August,  1861,  Mr.  Landis  went  upon  his  new  pur¬ 
chase  with  a  surveyor,  for  the  purpose  of  locating  the 
first  street  that  was  to  cross  the  railroad,  since  called 
Landis  Avenue.  As  there  was  no  carriage  road  either  to 
or  through  the  woods,  they  traversed  the  narrow  cow- 
paths  afoot  until  they  reached  the  spot  where  the  sur¬ 
veyor  was  to  plant  his  first  stake.  A  profound  stillness 
reigned  around  them  ;  nothing  could  be  heard  beyond  the 
rustling  of  the  leaves  ,  there  was  not  a  house  within 
several  miles.  While  the  surveyor  w.as  planting  his 
stakes,  an  old  dweller  among  the  pines  and  scrub  oaks 
of  that  region  came  up  to  tliem,  looked  at  the  instruments, 
and  inquired  of  Mr.  Landis  wliat  they  were  doing.  He  re¬ 
plied  that  tliey  were  locating  an  avenue  a  hundred  feet 
wide  for  a  new  town,  and  lliat  within  two  years  he  would 
see  tlie  spot  tliey  tlien  stood  on,  surrounded  vvith  build¬ 
ings  for  miles,  witli  farms  and  orchards  where  now  the 
forest  alone  coiibl  he  seen. 


The  man  turned  away  incredulous,  and  pitying  the  in¬ 
fatuation  of  tlie  projector.  No  wonder ,  he  had  lived 
seventy  years  in  mat  particular  locality  as  a  wood-chop¬ 
per,  had  never  been  to  Philadelpliia,  did  not  know  how  a 
city  looked,  and  considered  the  idea  of  building  one  in  that 
wilderness  as  the  dream  of  a  lunatic.  But  the  town  was 
laid  out,  with  many  five  and  ten  acre  lots,  and  many 
farms.  Miles  of  spacious  streets  and  roads  were  open¬ 
ed,  public  squares  and  a  park.  Every  purchaser  was  re¬ 
quired  to  plant  the  front  of  his  property  with  shade  trees, 
to  build  a  house  within  a  year,  at  a  certain  distance  from 
the  roadside,  and  affording  room  in  front  for  shrubbery 
and  flowers.  Unity  of  plan  was  tlius  secured,  insuring 
the  utmost  neatness  and  the  highest  embellishment.  It 
was  to  be,  in  fact,  a  vast  assemblage  of  betiuliful  cottage 
residences. 

Mr.  Landis  lias  already,  at  his  own  expense,  opened 
nearly  eighty  miles  of  streets  and  roads,  building  bridges 
wherever  needed,  cleared  out  acres  of  stumps  and  rub¬ 
bish,  established  the  grade,  and  on  many  otlier  improve¬ 
ments  expended  thousands  of  dollars  in  making  his  great 
enterprise  acceptable  to  the  numerous  families  who  have 
located  on  ids  property. 

I  visited  tills  remarkable  spot  in  the  summer  of  1864,  to 
examine  its  condition  and  surroundings.  I  had  known 
and  passed  over  the  spot  years  before,  when  it  was  a 
perfect  solitude,  with  neither  hut  nor  clearing.  It  would 
be  impossible  within  these  limits  to  specify  the  marvelous 
clianges  that  had  been  made.  The  forest  had  disappear¬ 
ed,  and  in  its  place  was  to  be  seen  a  settlement  contain¬ 
ing  some  six  hundred  and  fifty  houses  and  four  thousand 
inhabitants.  There  was  a  rapidly  grow  ing  town,  having 
churches,  schools,  stores,  mills,  and  other  conveniences. 
I  conversed  vvith  numerous  settlers  as  to  whence  they 
came,  and  how  they  fared  in  their  new  location.  As  a 
body  they  belong  to  tlie  better  class  of  citizens,  are  edu¬ 
cated,  intelligent,  moral  and  enterprising.  The  drones 
whicli  infest  other  communities  are  never  found  in  hives 
like  this.  Great  numbers  of  them  are  from  New-Eng¬ 
land,  while  the  neighboring  States  and  even  the  West 
are  largely  represented  in  this  common  centre.  Many 
have  built  costly  and  elegant  houses.  Many  are  profes¬ 
sional  fruit-growers  and  gardeners.  Those  who  buy 
farms  are  practical  farmers.  Tliere  arc  wealthy  families 
in  Vineland  who  remain  there  because  of  the  mildness 
of  the  climate  and  healthfulness  ol  the  place.  Taken 
altogether  the  settlement  has  an  old  and  cultivated  look 
already. 

The  soil  of  this  great  tract  varies  from  a  sandy  to  clay 
loam,  is  retentive  of  manures  and  abundantly  produc¬ 
tive.  It  produces  from  100  to  250  bushels  of  potatoes  per 
acre:  15  to  25  of  wheat,  though  the  premium  crop  for 
wheat  in  Cumberland  county,  in  1855,  was  44  bushels  per 
acre.  Of  shelled  corn,  50  to  75  bushels  is  the  ordinary 
crop,  and  two  tons  of  grass. 

Fruit  trees  and  vines  bear  abundantly.  I  saw  new- 
peach  orchards  of  thrifty  growih,  some  trees  sliowing 
fruit,  and  grape  vines  giving  promise  of  abundant  crops. 
The  winters  are  so  mild  as  to  allow  of  out-of-door  work 
nearly  all  through  them.  Mr.  Landis  told  me  that  for 
seven  years  he  had  not  known  the  ploughing  to  be  inter¬ 
rupted  by  reason  of  frost,  for  five  days  in  anyone  winter. 
All  kinds  of  fruit  are  cultivated,  the  five  and  ten  acre 
lots  being  mostly  devoted  to  the  smaller  descriptions. 
All  such  are  planted  so  that  the  picking  will  come  in  suc¬ 
cession;  thus,  strawberries,  raspberries,  blackberries, 
peaches,  grapes,  apples,  etc. 

In  driving  many  miles  over  Vineland,  I  entered  into 
conversation  with  numerous  settlers  at  work  by  the  road¬ 
side.  Most  of  these  happened  to  be  farmers  from  the 
West,  New-England,  and  Western  New-York.  All  were 
busy  on  their  growing  crops,  sometimes  in  groups  of  two 
or  three,  in  the  cornfield.  Not  one  of  them  but  exj>ressed 
his  preference  for  his  new  location  over  the  bleak  climate 
he  had  left.  I  saw  but  one  desirous  of  selling  and  re¬ 
moving,  and  but  one  house  having  on  it  a  handbill  as 
being  in  market.  Most  of  these  farms  were  just  carved 
out  of  the  woods,  sliowing  piles  of  roots  that  had  been 
grubbed  up.  They  are,  of  course,  rough  looking,  like  all 
new  clearings  in  a  new  country ;  but  the  hand  of  industry 
was  rapidly  taming  their  wildness,  and  bringing  them  in¬ 
to  prime  condition.  The  general  testimony  was,  that 
one  day’s  labor  on  this  soil  would  accomplish  twice  as 
much  work  as  if  expended  on  the  heavy  or  strong  soil 
from  which  they  had  migrated. 

Such  was  the  condition  of  the  farms  bought  within  six 
months  or  a  year.  Those  which  had  been  taken  up  by 
the  first  settlers,  those  of  two  and  a  half  years  ago,  pre¬ 
sented  a  very  different  appearance.  The  genial  and 
tractable  soil  had  enabled  tlieir  owners  to  work  a  great 
transformation,  even  in  that  brief  period.  From  most  of 
these  the  stumps  had  disappeared.  Gre.at  fields  of  grain 
were  whitening  to  the  harvest ;  many  acres  of  peach  and 
apple  orchards  were  to  be  seen,  the  former  promising  to 
yield  a  crop  the  coming  season.  Gardens  were  full  of 
fine  vegetables.  The  front  upon  the  ro.ad  had  been 
trimmed  up  and  seeded  to  grass,  while  shrubbery  and 
flowers  were  visible  on  many  of  the  lawns. 


Of  the  thirty-acre  farm  of  Mr.  William  0.  H.  Guynnetb 
a  brief  notice  may  seri*  as  an  illustration.  This  gentlemar 
is  from  Boston,  and  was  among  the  earliest  of  the  settlers 
He  bought  thirty  acres,  then  utterly  wild,  now  complete!} 
tamed.  His  dwelling  house  is  so  beautiful  a  structure  as 
to  command  admiration  anywhere.  He  has  planted  or¬ 
chards,  now  growing  finely,  and  has  acres  of  excellen 
wheat.  His  large  corn  field  showed  as  fine  a  growth  as 
farmer  could  desire,  and  so  atso  did  his  clover  crop.  1 
w-alked  over  his  ample  garden,  vineyard,  and  friii* 
grounds.  Every  kind  of  ordinary  garden  truck  wa.« 
growing  with  a  luxuriance  altogether  unexpected,  ami 
fully  equal  to  the  average  of  that  on  lands  that  sell  read 
ily  at  seven  times  the  cost  of  his. 

Several  hundred  grape  vines.  Concord,  Isabella,  and 
Catawba,  tw-o  years  planted,  showed  such  an  excess  of 
fruit  as  to  compel  Mr.  Guynneth  to  remove  at  least  half. 
In  no  section  of  New-Jersey  have  I  seen  the  grape  vine 
grow  so  rampantly  as  in  this  ground.  Cherry  trees, 
pears,  and  other  fruits  flourished  equally  w-ell.  It  was 
the  same  with  strawberries,  gooseberries,  and  blackber 
ries.  This  ground  had  not  received  a  particle  of  ma¬ 
nure.  What  it  now  is,  affords  a  practical  illustration  of  the 
real  value  of  this  section  of  New-Jersey.  Three  years 
ago  a  forest,  now-  the  productive  and  really  elegant  home 
of  an  intelligent  and  accomplished  family. 

On  reaching  the  extreme  boundary  of  the  Vineland 
tract,  I  called  on  Mr.  Robert  G.  Brandriff,  who  has 
here  cultivated  a  farm  of  ninety  acres  during  the  last 
eleven  years.  This  length  of  tillage  I  judged  likely  lo 
show  what  w-as  the  real  stamina  of  this  soil,  whether  it 
had  any  enduring  heart  in  it,  or  whether  it  would  speed¬ 
ily  run  down  to  barrenness. 

As  Mr.  Brandriff’s  land  w  as  of  even  lighter  character 
than  that  of  Vineland,  its  behavior  under  long  cropping 
would  afford  a  favorable  test  for  the  whole  neighbor¬ 
hood.  He  gave  me,  without  reserve,  all  the  particulars 
of  a  truly  remarkable  history,  with  permission  to  use 
them.  Eleven  years  ago  this  farm  was  covered  with 
forest.  The  owner  offered  it  to  Mr.  Brandriff  for  four 
hundred  dollars  for  the  ninety  acres,  and  an  ample  time 
for  payment,  and  being  a  storekeeper,  a  few  miles  off, 
added  the  important  help  of  a  credit  on  his  books  for  sup 
plies  for  family  use,  and  materials  for  building  to  the 
amount  of  six  hundred  dollars.  At  this  time  Mr.  Brand¬ 
riff  was  not  possessed  of  a  dollar,  but  he  w-ent  to  work, 
cleared  up  his  land  little  by  little,  a  few  acres  yearly,  and 
thus  conquered  all  difficulties,  until  now  he  has  sixty 
acres  in  cultivation,  from  which  his  receipts  in  1863  were 
two  thousand  dollars. 

His  family  consists  of  six  persons,  who  have  lived  well 
during  this  time.  His  fences  and  buildings  cost  him  some 
$1600.  He  keeps  four  cows,  pigs,  and  one  horse,  by 
w  hich  all  the  work  on  the  easily  tilled  soil  of  the  farm  is 
done.  He  hires  but  one  man,  except  in  busy  limes.  For 
tlie  w  ants  of  his  family,  and  the  prosecution  of  other  im¬ 
provements,  his  annual  outlay  is  $1,000. 

Mr.  Brandriff  showed  me  his  account-book  for  the 
eleven  years  he  had  been  at  work,  in  which  all  his  re¬ 
ceipts  and  expenditures  were  clearly  entered,  with  the 
balance  accurately  struck  at  each  year’s  end.  His  farm 
is  now  worth  $6,000.  and  he  has  abundant  property-  out¬ 
side  of  it  to  represent  any  debt  he  owes.  His  residence 
here  has  not  been  the  humdrum  existence  of  a  mere 
sandpiper  or  woodchuck.  He  is  a  keen  sportsman  w  ith 
line  and  gun.  At  the  proper  season,  he  plunges  into  the 
forest  that  covers  much  of  this  section  of  New-Jersey, 
camps  out  at  night  as  naturally  as  an  Indian,  considers 
sleep  of  no  consequence  when  compared  with  a  coon 
hunt,  and  is  a  dead  shot  at  any  unlucky  deer  that  crosses 
his  path.  The  huge  antlers  hanging  up  in  his  shed  afford 
evidence  of  his  skill  with  the  rifle.  At  other  limes,  he 
visits  the  neighboring  waters  of  Delaware  Bay,  where 
.squadrons  of  w-ild  ducks  make  generous  contributions  to 
his  fondness  for  the  gun. 

Mr.  Brandriff  sells  his  crops  at  Milville,  two  miles 
from  his  farm.  His  wheat  crop  has  been  tw-enty  bushels 
pei  acre,  seventy-five  of  shelled  corn,  two  hundred  of 
round  potatoes,  one  hundred  of  sw  eet,  five  hundred  and 
sixty  of  carrots,  six  hundred  and  twenty  of  turnips,  w  hile 
his  cabbages  pay  one  hundred  dollars  per  acre,  and  of 
grass  the  yield  is  two  to  three  tons.  For  manure,  his 
main  dependence  is  on  the  home  product,  sometimes 
using  the  fertilizers.  The  particulars  of  his  expwience 
have  been  thus  recited  as  affording  unanswerable  evi¬ 
dence  of  the  character  of  nearly  all  the  land  in  this  here¬ 
tofore  neglected  region  of  New-Jersey.  Much  of  it  is 
superior  to  this  particular  farm. 

The  visitor  to  Vineland  cannot  fail  to  notice  the  absence 
of  fences,  even  in  a  ride  of  fifty  miles.  No  farms  have 
been  fenced  in,  and  not  a  dozen  town  lots.  It  had  been 
calculated  that  five  million  dollars  would  be  required  to 
do  the  fencing  of  the  whole  tract.  To  save  the  settle¬ 
ment  from  this  useless  tax,  Mr.  Landis  invoked  the  aid 
of  the  Legislature.  A  new  township  w  as  erected  bearing 
his  name,  in  which  the  running  at  large  or  cattle  and 
swine  was  prohibited,  thus  each  settler  fences  in  his  ow-n 
stock  only,  and  is  saved  the  great  cost  cf  fepring  out  th» 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST. 


129 


THE 

NE¥-rORK  WEEKLY  HEMLD 

Only  Tw©  tor  One  Year. 

ADDRESS  WEEKLY  HERALD. 

MEW  «  YORK  CITY 


18S5.] 


vicious  road  thieves  of  his  neighbors.  No  other  town¬ 
ship  in  New-Jersey  is  found  with  a  similar  regulation. 

Another  peculiarity  will  be  noticed,  the  total  absence 
of  grog-shops,  with  gangs  of  loafers  congregated  about 
their  doors.  The  law  erecting  Landis  township  gave  to 
the  people  the  power  of  saying  whether  rum  should  be 
sold  or  not.  So  far,  tliey  have  rigidly  refused  to  have  it 
among  them,  and  the  character  of  the  settlers  coming  in 
will  guarantee  exclusion  in  future.  The  fine  hotel  which 
accommodates  strangers,  has  been  at  no  expense  for 
either  bar  or  toddy-stick.  These  two  enactments  were 
portions  of  Mr.  Landis’  original  plan,  and  afford  satis¬ 
factory  evidence  of  the  sound  morals  and  practical  good 
iense  which  he  has  brought  to  bear  in  carrying  it  out. 

No  one  can  spend  a  day  at  this  place  without  being 
strongly  impressed  in  its  favor,  nor  converse  with  its 
proprietor  without  being  struck  with  his  remarkable  ex¬ 
ecutive  capacity.  His  whole  enterprise  of  settling  a 
tract  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  wild  land  has  been 
conceived  and  carried  out  on  the  most  comprehensive 
scale.  It  is  now  successfully  established  on  what  was 
three  .years  ago  a  perfect  solitude,  by  the  energy  of  a 
single  capacious  mind.  I  have  seen  much  of  the  process 
of  making  new  settlements  on  the  waste  places  of  the 
earth,  but  no  instance  of  methodical  planning,  of  far-see¬ 
ing  judgment,  of  just  calculation,  of  greater  ends  from  a 
great  beginning,  than  is  here  exhibited.  The  original 
plan,  as  it  was  transferred  from  the  projector’s  mind  to 
paper,  can  now  be  seen  unfolded  in  all  its  symmetrical 
vastness.  Even  the  details  are  everywhere  visible,  all  of 
them  in  harmony  with  the  whole. 

That  these  results  have  been  actually  realized,  is  shown 
by  the  rapid  and  astonishing  success  of  the  settlement. 
Families  are  daily  coming  in  from  a  distance,  and  select¬ 
ing  homes  wherever  they  think  best.  As  at  the  begin¬ 
ning,  the  proprietor  continues  to  convey  these  locations 
at  low  prices  and  on  liberal  credit.  Mere  idle  specula¬ 
tors,  the  men  who  buy  but  do  not  improve,  were  not 
wanted,  and  have  been  kept  out.  Many  purchasers,  be¬ 
ing  well  supplied  with  means,  paid  cash  for  what  they 
bought ;  but  to  many  worthy  families  the  credit  given  has 
proved  extremely  useful. 

The  railroad  from  Camden  through  Milville  and  Glass- 
Doro’,  to  Cape  May,  renders  the  spot  accessible  to  all. 

Vineland  is  probably  increasing  as  rapidly  as  any  new 
town  in  the  West.  In  March  last  lots  were  selling  so 
rapidly  as  to  insure  the  erection  of  forty  new  houses 
every  month,  or  four  hundred  and  eighty  per  annum.  No 
such  annual  growth  as  this  was  realized  by  William 
Pehn  in  the  early  history  of  Philadelphia.  These  new 
buildings  are  not  ephemeral  structures,  mere  shanties  to 
keep  off  sun  and  rain,  such  as  one  connects  with  the  idea 
of  a  new  settlement,  but  substantial  and  durable  houses. 
Some  of  them  are  truly  elegant,  such  only  as  would  be 
built  by  men  possessing  means  and  taste.  When  the 
whole  tract  has  been  disposed  of,  the  population  of  Vine- 
land  will  be  15,000.  Now,  the  population  of  the  entire 
county  of  Cumberland,  in  1860,  was  only  22,605,  so  that  in 
a  few  years  more  it  will  have  been  nearly  doubled  by  the 
energy  and  enterprise  of  a  single  individual. 

Whichever  way  you  turn,  progress  and  improvement 
of  some  kind  are, visible.  Here  a  new  house  is  going  up, 
there  a  new  farm  is  being  cleared.  The  settlement  must 
become  in  the  end  an  immense  fruit  garden.  Its  pro¬ 
ducts  reach  the  two  great  cities,  over  cheap  and  rapid 
railroads,  and  command  cash  at  generous  prices.  Its 
history  shows  the  great  public  benefit  that  can  be  realized 
from  the  ownership  of  a  va.st  tract  by  one  man,  when  the 
man  uses  it  and  handles  it  as  this  tract  has  been  managed. 
Such  wholesale  colonization  may  have  been  attempted 
by  others,  out  it  lias  nowhere  been  so  successful  as  here. 

No  ducal  owner  of  hereditary  acres,  either  in  England 
or  on  ihe  Continent,  with  an  annual  income  greater  than 
the  value  of  the  fee  of  all  Vineland,  has  ever  undertaken 
a  similar  scheme  of  colonization.  Such  men  devote  their 
enormous  wealth  to  acquiring  more  land,  not  to  sharing 
their  acquisitions  with  their  less  fortunate  neighbors. 

Instead  of  clearing  forests  and  letting  in  population  to 
improve  and  beautify,  and  acquire  permanent  and  happy 
homes,  they  plant  the  already  cleared  ground  with  trees, 
and  shut  p’opulation  out,  increasing  the  difficulty  of  the 
masses  for  acquiring  even  the  smallest  freehold. 

It  has  been  left  to  a  single  American  citizen  to  set  before 
all  others  thus  extensively  endowed  with  land,  an  ex¬ 
ample  which  will  add  more  largely  to  the  sum  of  human 
happiness,  the  oftener  it  may  be  imitated. 

As  may  be  supposed,  such  a  transformation  as  Mr. 
Landis  has  thus  effected  has  powerfully  affected  the  con¬ 
dition  and  value  of  thousands  of  acres  within  miles 
around  Vineland.  Prices  have  risen,  settlers  are  corning 
in  from  abroad,  and  the  area  of  the  great  body  of  waste 
land  is  annually  becoming  lessened  by  the  creation  of 
new  farms.  The  cloud  of  prejudice  which  overhung 
this  portion  of  New-Jorsey  has  been  effectually  dis¬ 
persed,  Railroads  have  made  it  as  accessible  as  any 
other  region.  Within  two  hours’  ride  of  it  there  is  a 
population  of  a  million  of  consumers,  whose  consump¬ 
tion  of  Its  products  must  annually  increase.  Within 
such  an  atmosphere,  these  lands,  which  now  sell  at  from 
$20  to  $30  per  acre,  must  rapidly  rise  in  value  until  they 
reach  the  prices  commanded  north  of  Camden,  where 
naving  enjoyed  railroad  facilities  for  a  longer  period,  they 
Bring  from  $100  to  $300  per  acre. 


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It  has  all  the  News  of  the  Week  up  to  the  Latest 
date. 

It  contains  the  only  Maps  Illustrating  the  Movements^ 
of  our  Armies. 

It  is  alive  to  all  the  Great  Interests  of  the  Country. 

It  embraces  everything  that  a  flrsLclass  Weekly  should 
contain,  and  all  for  Two  Dollars. 

Wlaite  all  tSie  otiaer  Weelcly  pa¬ 
pers  have  increased  their  siihscrip- 
tion  price  from  Twenty-live  to  Two 
Himdred  per  cent*,  the  WEEKliY 
IIEKAE®  is  mailed  at  the  old  rates. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ADDRESS 

ff.  Y,  WEEKLY  HEKAE®, 
New  York  City. 


rjiHE  NEW  YORK  WEEKLY  HERALD. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR, 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAK. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

The  WEEKLY  HEKALD  contains  the  Best  Articles  oil 
every  subject  of  any  Journal  in  the  Country. 

It  has  the  most  comprehensive  Eevlew  of  Literary  Mati- 
tors— Domestic  and  Foreign. 

It  has  the  Fullest  and  Most  Impartial  Musical  and  Theatrl. 
cal  Criticisms. 

It  has  the  Most  Accurate  Notices  on  Art. 

It  has  the  Blost  Eeiiablo  Market  Eeports. 

It  contains  the  Beat  Articles  on  Agricultural  Matters. 

It  lias  full  Notices  of  all  the  Latest  Scientific  Dicover- 
ies  and  Inventions. 

It  contains  one  or  more  Admirably  Written  Stories. 

It  has  all  the  News  of  the  Week  up  to  the  Latest 
date. 

It  contains  the  only  Maps  Illustrating  the  Movement! 
of  our  Armies. 

It  is  alive  to  all  the  Great  Interests  of  the  Country. 

It  embraces  everything  that  a  first-class  Weekly  should 
contain,  and  ail  for  Two  Dollars. 

While  all  the  other  IVeclcly  pa¬ 
pers  have  increased  their  snbscrip- 
tion.  pi-lce  from  'Twenty-live  to  “Two 
Hundred  per  cent.,  the  WEEKLY 
1IEI£AE1>  is  mailed  at  the  old  ratest 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOB  ONE  TEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ONLY  TWO  DOLLARS  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

ADDRESS 

N.  Y.  WEEKLY  HEISALD, 
New  Yorli  City. 


130 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Apbil, 


^Uertisements. 

TERMS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  Insertion, 
One  half  column  (74  lines),  $6.7  each  insertion. 

One  wliole  column  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Kotices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  line. 

Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  lOth  of  the  preceding  month. 

Seeds  that  can  lie  Be- 
peiided  upon. 

lovers  of  Flowers,  Lovers  of  Vegetables, 

and  all  who  are  Interested  in  the  culture  of  the  Farm 
or  Garden,  in  want  of  RELiIABLE  SEEDS,  will 
please  refer  to  the  advertisements  of  B.  K.  BLISS,  in  the 
March  No.  of  the  Agriculturist,  where  may  he  found  a 
PKICE  LIST  of  many  of  the  most  desirable  varieties  of 

'Vegetal>le  and  Flower  Seeds. 

For  a  more  extended  list  send  for 


K.  BLISS’ 

Seed.  Catalog-tie  and 


Guide  to  the  Flower  and  Kitchen  Garden. 

The  Eleventh  Edition,  enlarged  and  improved,  just 
published,  containing  One  Hundred  Pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  with  many  heautiful  illustrations, 
and  a  descriptive  list  of  upward  of  Two  Thousand 
varieties  of  Piower  and  Vegetable  Seed.s,  in¬ 
cluding  many  eharining  novelties,  now  offered  for 
the  first  time  in  this  country,  with  explicit  directions  lor 
their  culture.  Also  a  list  of  upwards  of 

One  Hundred  varieties  of  French  Hybrid 
Gladiolus,  and  other  Summer  Flowering  Bulbs— 
to  which  is  added  a  list  of  a  few  of  the  choicest  varieties  of 
Grapes,  Str,awbci-rie.s,  Raspberries,  and  other 
Small  Fruits,  Bedding  Plants,  ete.,  etc.,  culti¬ 
vated  at  his  gardens ;  with  much  other  useful  Information 
upon  the  subject  of  gardening  generally,  which  will  be  found 
useful  to  the  experienced  amateur,  as  well  as  those  about  to 
commence  the  delightful  occupation  of  gardening.  In  con¬ 
sequence  of  the  very  great  advance  in  the  cost  of  paper, 
printing,  &c.,  we  cannot  afford  it  gratuitously,  (as  we 
have  heretofore  done)  excepting  to  our  regular  customers. 

A  copy  will  be  mailed,  post-paid,  to  all  applicants  enclos¬ 
ing  25  cents.  Address 

B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Connecticut  Seed  Leaf  Tobacco  Seed. 


JBc  sure  and  Huy  the  Rest. 

A  superior  lot  raised  expressly  for  the  subscriber  by  one 
of  the  most  successful  cultivators  in  the  Valley  of  the  Con- 
imcticut.— Packets  with  full  directions  for  culture,  curing, 
backing,  <tc.,  will  be  mailed  to  all  applic.ants  at  the  fol¬ 
lowing  rates:  1  ounce,  50  cents;  4  ounces.  $1.50  ;  1  pound, 
$5.  Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Maas. 

Chicory  Seed. 

The  Great  Substitute  for  Coflfee. 

A  supply  of  the  genuine  article  just  received  from  Ger¬ 
many  by  the  Subscriber,  and  will  be  sent  by  mail  to  any  ad¬ 
dress  upon  receipt  of  prices  affixed.  Packets  containing 
1  ounce,  20  cts. ;  8  ounces,  80  cents  ;  1  pound,  $1  50.  Direc¬ 
tions  for  culture  and  curing  accompanv  each  package. 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


THE  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKET. 

BEECIIEK'S  PATENT  May  31st,  1861. 

All  Fruit  Growers  and  Dealers  who  have  small  fruits  that 
they  wish  to  put  into  market  economically,  and  in  the  best 
condition,  and  most  saleable  manner,  should  use  the  cele¬ 
brated  VKNEKR  P'KQIT  BASKET.  For  cut  and  descrip¬ 
tion  of  Basket,  see  February  and  March  numbers  of  Ameri¬ 
can  Agriculturist.  Circulars  of  Basket  and  Crates  sent  on 
application  to  us.  A.  BEECHER  &  SONS, 

Westville,  Conn. 


Choice  aster  plants  by  man  in  May  and 

June.  Twenty-six  (26)  plants  from  choicest  imnorted 
Beeds  post-paid.  $1.00.  Every  plant  has  been  transplanted 
and  will  bear  removal  well.  Orders  solicited  early.  “Mr. 
T.  is  iustly  celebrated  for  the  excellent  plants  he  fiirnislies.” 
Greenfield  paper.  JOSHUA  THORNILEY,  Greenfield,  Mass. 


Imported  I^iirsery  iStocks. 

Jnst  received  per  Steamer,  in  prime  condition,  to  be  sold 
bv  the  package  only,  and  for  cash.— Also  a  lew  boxes 
li'Homme  Lefort  Mastic,  for  Cold  grafting. 

For  a  list  of  Sorts,  quantities  and  prices.  Address 

C.  RAOUX,  86  Cedar  St.,  New  York  City. 


Seeds.  Seeds-  Seeds. 


Fresh  and  reliahle 


At  GPJFFING  BROTIIEU  &  CO., 

,53  &  60  Courtlandt  st.,  New-Tork. 


^EEDS  BY  MAIL,  PRE-FAID.— All  the  most 

profitable  and  snceesaful  sorts  of  Onions,  Bickt,  Cab- 
BAOE,  Melons,  Squabh,  Tuunip,  and  other  seeds,  at  lowest 
rates.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


Peach  Trees.  Sweet  Potato  Seed. 

Sweet  Potato  PInnt.s,  and  other  IIot-Bcd  I’lants. 

I.  J.  SIMONSON,  at  GUIFFING  BBOTHEK  &  Co.. 

Seed  Warehouse,  60  CourMand-st„  New  York. 


Green  Houses  for  sale  in  a  good  location  with  no  coninetl- 
Hod.  Address  G.  E.  ADAMS,  Logansport,  Ind.,  Box  239P.O. 


^EE©  I  ^EE©  S  ^EE© : 

FOR  THE 

1865. 

For  the  present  planting  season,  we  offer  a  choice  assort¬ 
ment  of  seeds,  the  quality  of  wliich  is  very  flue,  and  in  gen¬ 
eral,  tlie  supply  good,  hut  owing  to  the  very  severe  drouth 
of  the  last  summer,  some  sorts  are  scarce. 

We  Iiave 

Early  and  Dwarf  Peas, 
medium  and  Late  Peas. 

Dwarf  Reans,  Pole  Reans. 

Extra  Early  Dwarf  Sugar  Corn. 

MCamniotli  Sugar  Corn, 

AH  valuable  sorts  of  Beet,  Cauliflower,  Carrot,  Cucumber, 
Melon,  Lettuce,  Parsnip,  Iladisli,  Squash,  Pumpkin,  Tomato 
and  Turnip. 

§EEI>. 

Early  Globe  and  Flat  Red,  Globe,  Danvers,  and  Tellow 
Flat  Dutch,  Early  White,  and  White  Portugal, 

©NaOM  §F.TT§. 

Yellow  and  White. 

iicaais 

Thyme,  Marjoram,  Sage,  Savory,  and  all  other  sorts. 

FISUIT  §EEI>§. 

Apple,  Pear,  Quince,  Cherry,  Apricot,  Currant,  Gooseberry, 
Kaspherry,  Strawberry. 

©SiAIW. 

Spring  Wheat,  Spring  Kye,  Barlej',  Poland  Oats,  Buck- 
wheat.  White  Flint  Corn,  Yellow  Flint  Corn,  Dent  Corn, 
King  Philip  Corn,  Flour  Corn. 

CLOYEIS,  ©ISASS  SEED§,  &c. 

Red  Clover,  White  Clover,  Lucern,  Timotliy,  Red  Top, 
Bent,  Kentucky  Blue,  Fowl  Meadow  (this  is  the  true  kind), 
Sweet  Vernal,  Perennial,  Kye,  Italian  Rye,  Italian  Millet, 
Hungarian  Millet,  Sainfoin,  Spuny,  Vetches,  Flax,  Chinese 
Sugar  Cane,  Broom  Corn,  Tobacco,  Long  and  Short  Staple 
Cotton,  Grafting  Wax,  Oil  Soap,  etc. 

Catalbgnes  sent  to  all  wLo  Apply. 

Dealers  supplied  witli  assortments  of  packets  for  retailing, 
their  own  selection,  or  in  quantities  in  bulk,  at  lowest 
Wholesale  rates. 


Marblehead  Mammoth  Cabbage. 

My  Cabba.ge  is  the  largest  in  the  world  !  In  favorable  lo- 
caMties  it  will  grow  to  weigh  from  thirty  to  sixty  pounds  a 
head,  and  wherever  it  has  been  introduced  it  has  leit  all  oth- 
er  varieties  far  in  the  background.  They  have  been  raised 
in  every  loyal  State  and  in  the  Canadas,  weighing  from  20  to 
60  lbs.  each.  They  are  not  only  of  enormous  size,  but  very 
hard  headed,  very  tender  and  sweet.  The  calls  for  seed  have 
been  so  extensive  that  for  the  past  two  years  I  have  been 
unable  to  supply  it.  I  can  this  season  supply  packatres  con¬ 
taining  seed  sufilcient  for  500  plaiits,  wUli  full  directions  for 
cultivation,  sent  by  mail,  post-paid  by  me,  for  25  cts.  each  • 
five  for  $1  00  ;  one  hundred  for  $15  00,  Also  Cannon  Ball 
Cabbage,  an  early  sort,  making  the  roundest  and  hardest 
head  of  any  cabbage  grown.  Per  package  25  cts. ;  five  pack¬ 
ages  $1  00.  Stone  Mason  Cabbage.  This  is  a  very  large 
drumhead,  remarkably  reliable  for  heading,  and  first  rate  for 
a  general  crop,  K  oz.,  25  cts. ;  1  oz.,  50  cts! ;  1  Jb.,  $4  25,  post¬ 
paid  to  any  part  of  the  United  States,  or  Canadas. 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY,  Marblehead.  Mass. 


Ilubhard,  Ttirhan,  Yokohama  ! 

I  am  receiving  lettera  daily  from  all  parts  of  the  United 
States,  from  Farmers,  Gardeners,  and  others,  who  pronounce 
my  Turban  to  he  the  dryest,  sweetest,  finest  grained  and 
most  delicious  fall  squadi  they  ever  ate.  The  Hubbard  is 
universally  acknowledged  to  he  the  best  of  all  winter  squash¬ 
es,  while  the  new  Japan  Squash,  tlie  Yokoliama,  is  pro¬ 
nounced  the  very  best  of  its  class.  I  was  the  original  intro 
ducer  of  the  Hubbard  and  Turban  squashes.  Packages  ol 
seed,  (all  of  my  own  growing,)  sent  by  mail,  witli  full  direc¬ 
tions  for  cultivating,  for  25  cents  each  for  Turban  and  Yoko¬ 
hama,  and  15  cents  for  Hubbard.  Five  packages  of  Turban 
or  Yokoluama,  .$1.00.— Hubbard  by  mail,  post  paid  by  me. 
$2  62  per  pound. 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY,  Marblehead,  Maas. 


Garden  Seeds  !  Flower  Seeds  ! 

Of  every  variety,  the  utmost  care  is  taken  to  have  them 
pure,  choice,  and  reliable. 

FIELD  AND  GRASS  SEED— SEED  POTA¬ 
TOES,  &c. 

FARM  AND  GARDEN  TOOLS,  of  most  approved 
patterns. 

GUANO,  BONE  DUST,  PHOSPHATE, 
BRUCE’S  FERTILIZER,  made  under  Mr.  Bruce’s 
personal  supervision. 

PLANTS,  TREES,  ROOTS,  &c,,  for  sale  at  whole¬ 
sale  or  retail,  at  low  Prices.  JOHN  VANDERBILT, 

23  Fulton-st.,  New-York. 


Choice  and  Fare  Melon  Seeds. 

Mountain  Sweet  Water  Melon.. per  oz.,  10c.  and  per  Ib  $1  00 
Jenny  Lind  Canteloupe  “  “  10c.  “  "  1  00 

Netted  Citron  “  “  “  10c.  “  “  1  00 

Pine  Apple  “  “  “  20c.  “  “  2  00 

Apple  Pie  and  Green  Citron  preserving  Melons,  20c  per  oz. 
HENRY'  A.  DliEER,  Seed  and  Horticultural  Warehouse, 
714  Chestnut-st.,  Philadelphia,  Pa. 


R.  H.  ALLEN  Sc  CO.., 

189  Sc  191  'Water-st.,  New-York, 

Choice  Seed. 

With  the  return  ot  another  season  I  would  invite  the  at¬ 
tention  of  tlie  public  to  my  Annual  Catalogue  of  reliahle 
Garden  Seed,  including  over  200  varieties,  many  of  whicli  are 
of  my  own  raising.  I  would  c.all  particular  attention  to  the 
following  list  ol  new,  rare  or  very  desirable  vegetables  : 
Cannon  Ball  Cabbage  (new,  earlv,  the  heads  are  as  round 
and  about  asliard  as  a  cannon  ball)  ;  Marblehead  Mammoth 
Drumliead  Cabbage  (the  largest  in  the  world)— Stone  Mason 
Cabbage  (the  best  of  a'.i  winter  cabbages,  put  up  in  lialf  oz. 
packages,  and  sold  by  tlie  pound  if  desired'— Learmand’s 
klammoth  Caulitlower  (tlie  largest  of  all ;— Mammotli 
French  Squash  (weighs  from  100  to  260  Ihs.)— Mammoth 
Sweet  Corn  (the  largest  sort  known,  selected  from  ears 
weighing  from  two  to  three  pounds,  very  sweet,  excellent 
for  the  table)- Y'okohoma  Squasli  (new  from  Japan)— Amer¬ 
ican  Turban  Squash  (new,  the  dryest,  sweetest  and  best  of  all 
fall  squashes,  first  rate)— Sfriped  Gaudaloupe  Egg  Plant 
Wuite  ornamental)— New  'iork  extra  large  purple  Egg 
Plant  (llie  largestof  all  varieties)— Ornamental  Kale  (several 
varieties  in  one  package  ;  fine  for  either  tlie  flower  or  kitcli- 
en  garden)- Pierce's  American  Cauliflower  (tlie  standard 
late  sort  in  Boston  Market)— Early  Paris  Cauliflower  (im¬ 
ported  seed,  the  best  early  sort)— Waite’s  New  Alma  Cauli¬ 
flower  (a  popular  new  Englisli  variety)— Early  White  Japan 
Melon  (new,  very  sweet,  fine)— Ward's  Nectar  Melon  (the 
sweetest,  spiciest,  best  of  all  tlie  green  fleslicd  varieties)— 
Caterpillar  Plant  (a  curious  vegetable  ;  several  varieties  in 
one  package)— Vegetable  Snails  (anotlier  natural  curiosity). 
Each  of  the  above  at  25  cents  per  package.  Forty  Days’ 
Corn  (extra  early,  about  10  days  earlier  than  Darling’s 
Early)— Mexican  Sweet  Corn  (tlie  sweetest  of  all  v.arieties  ol 
table  corn)— Golden  Sweet  Corn  (an  early,  prolific,  sweet 
table  corn,  of  a  hriglW:  golden  color,  fine)— Hubbard  Squash 
Seed  (true ;  I  introduced  tills)- Cow  or  Tree  Cabbage  (for 
stock)— Y’ard  Long  Bean— Extra  Early  Y'ork  Tomato  (very 
early,  very  prolific,  of  good  size  and  excellent  quality) — 
Cook’s  Favorite  Tomato  (a  very  early  apple  tomato,  prolific, 
of  excellent  quality)— Y'ellow  Lupins  (tlie  plant  so  highly  re¬ 
commended  for  suosoiling  in  a  recent  Patent  Oflice  Report 
— also  liiglily  ornamental)— Tom  Thumb  Pea  (very  early, 
grows  10  inches  higli,  very  productive) — Drew’s  New  Dwarf 
Pea  (new,  very  dwarf,  very  prolific,  peas  egg  shaped,  each 
plant  forms  a  hush,  blit  one  pea  being  required  to  about  one 
foot  of  row)— Brown’s  New  Dwarf  Early  Marrowfat  Pea  (a 
new  variety  avliieli  may  be  relied  upon,  as  both  the  earliest 
iflici  most-dwarf  Marrowfat  grown ;  very  prolific)— Inmroved 
Long  Green  Cucumber-Six  finest  varieties  of  Cabbage  Lettuce 
in  one  paelmge.  True  Boston  Curled  Lettuce  (the  most  elegant 
of  all,  quality  good)— Oniamental  Gourds  (m.any  varieties  lii 
one  package— Spotted  Sieva  Bean,  Concord  Bean  (a  new  pole 
bean,  rcniarkahly  early,  quality  first-rate)— Extra  Flat  Beet 
(new,  very  early,  about  .as  flat  as  a  turnip,  quality  excellent) 
— Cliick  Peas  (two  sort  mixed;  extenslveVy  used  fn  Europe  as 
a  substitute  for  coffee)— Cl’inese  Sugar  Cane  (Imported  seed) 
New  jersev  liyhrid  Cucumber  (one  of  the  largest  and  best 
varieties cnltivateM)— Lester’s  Icrfected  Tomato  (very  large 
and  tliick  meated)— Sutton’s  Student  P.arsnip  (new,  recently 
originated  in  England,  desirable)— Chinese  Rose  Winter 
Radish  (decidedly  tlie  best  of  all  tlie  winter  sort,  an  acquisi¬ 
tion)— Hood’s  Dwarf  Imperial  Purple  Celery  (new,  superior) 
—Indian  Cliief  Bean  (a  pole  bean  ;  can  be  used  asastring 
bean  much  better  than  any  other  variety ;  very  productive.) 
— Knell  of  tlie  aliove  at  15  cents  per  package.  Catalogues 
sent  gratis  to  all.  Those  who  received  it  last  season  will  re¬ 
ceive  it  this  without  writing  for  it. 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY, 
Marblehead,  Massachusetts. 


Pure  Sorghum  Seed. 

Grown  expressly  for  Seed,  and  warranted  genuine.  Prict 
25c.  per  ft.  A  liberal  discount  bv  the  quantity. 

HENRY  A.  DREEK,  714  (jhestnnt-st., 
Pliiladelphla,  Pa. 


Turnip  Seed. 

New  Sweet  German  (best  late  keeping  winter,  trnc,)  and  al 
other  best  early  and  late  Turnips,  by  mail  or  Express.  Prlccf. 
catalogues  to  any  address.  B.  M.  WATSON, 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth.  Mass. 


Garden  Seeds!  Flower  Seeds 

Our  Garden  Seeds  were  mostly  trrown  l>y  Francis  Brill 
and  therefore  we  can  warrant  them  genuine  and  sure  to  grow 
Our  Flower  Seeds  we  procure  from  the  most  reiiabU 
American  and  European  growers,  and  offer  a  fine  assortment 
SEEDS  BY  MAIL.— We  send  Seeds  by  mail  prepaid^ot 
receipt  of  price  for  which  see  Catalogue,  furnished  free  U 
all  applicants.  BUILD  &  KUMERLE, 

153  Broad-st.,  Newark,  Kew*Jersey. 


Seed  Catalogue  for  1865, 


Mv  Seed  Catalogue,  embracing  over  200  varieties  of  fresh 
garden  seed,  many  of  which  are  of  my  own  growing,  will  be 
mailed  free  lo  all  applicants.  Tliosewlio  purchased  seed  last 
season  will  receive  it  this  season  without  writing  for  it.  A» 
the  original  introducer  of  the  Hubbard  Squash,  Marblehead 
Mammoth  Cabbage,  &c„  &c.,  I  invite  the  patronage  of  the 
public.  JAMES  J.  H.  G  KEG  Oil  Y, 

Marblehead,  Mass. 


SEEI>  BY  MAIE. 

YF  Fresh  nnd  Reliahle  American  Seed. 

Red  and  Yellow . per  lb . $5  00 

White  Sdver  Skin .  “  .  6  00 

In  quantities  of  not  less  than  ft. 

JAMES  SHEPPARD  &  CO.,  214  Pearl-st.,  New-York. 


PWAKF  BROOM  CORN  SEED.— I  will  send 
the  genuine  Dwarf  Broom  corn  seed,  post-paid,  at  the 
following  rates.  K  lb.  50c.,  lbs.  $1,  5  lbs.  $3,  10  lbs.  $5 
ELIAS  REED,  Waterville,  Lucas  Co.,  Ohio. 


iP  OODRICH  SEEDLING  POTATOES  for  Seed. 
YW  Orders  for  the  Pinkeye  Rusty  Coat,  Cuzco,  and  Garnet 
Chill  varieties,  carefully  selected,  will  be  filled  by  the  sub¬ 
scriber,  when  the  weather  admits,  at  five  dollars  per  b,arrcl. 
Enclose  the  money  with  order.  E.  C.  ALLEN,  West  Meri¬ 
den,  Ct. 


English  fluke  potatoes  for  sale.— 

200  Bushels  of  tlie  above  named  popular  variety.  The 
seed  was  imported  from  England.  Warranted  pure  and 
very  fine.  Price  $3  per  bushel.  All  cash  orders  promptly 
attended  to.  Address 

BENJ.  W.  VALENTINE,  South  Amenia. 

Dutchess  Co.,  N.  Y. 


^EED  SWEET  POTATOES.— For  sale  at  $5  50 

^per  bushel,  and  the  sprouts  after  May  1st,  at  $5  00  per 
thousand,  safely  packed  and  delivered  in  New  York  free  of 
charge.  Address  P.  PHILLIPS, 

Middletown  Point,  New  Jersey. 


BUSHELS  FLUKE  POTATOES  will  be 
"sent  by  Express  or  mall  to  any  poini  J,  B.  WIL¬ 
SON,  Washington.  Pennsylvania. 


American  arbor  vit^  plants,  o  to  lo 

inches  high,  for  sale  at  $5.00  per  1000.  For  particulars. 
Address  L.  B.  CHAPMAN,  133  Fulton-st.,  (Dp  stairs)  N.  T 


186d.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


131 


New  Sfrawljcri'ies. 

GREAT  AGRICULTURIST. 

Tlie  largest  Strawberry  in  tbc^World. 

,  I  exhibited  in  June  last  at  tiie  Offlee  of  the  Agriculturist, 
41  Park  Row,  N.  T.,  at  tlie  great  Strawberry  Show,  a  plant 
less  than  10  months  old,  witli  291  perfect  berries  on  it:  this  is 
abont  twice  as  many  as  lias  yet  been  produced  from  the  'Wil¬ 
son,  Kussell,  or  any  otlier  variety  from  a  plant  of  the  same 
«ge.  The  plant  exhibited  was  no  more  remarkable  in  pro- 
dnctlveness  than  a  Imndred  otliers  in  my  garden,  which  were 
examined  by  Charles  Downing,  W.  F.  Heins,  Prof.  Tlmrber, 
•nd  P.  B.  Mead.  The  berry  is  a  bright,  glossy  crimson,  the 
size  is  enormous,  the  average  berries  exceeding  anything 
ever  before  seen  in  the  Strawberry  line. 

The  plant  from  which  my  stock  has  been  produced,  exhib- 
Sted  remarkable  bearing  properties ;  nearly  all  the  young 
plants  bore  fruit  from  June  to  October,  the  first  season.  Last 
season  the  young  plants  were  constantly  fruiting  every 
month  until  frost.  1  liave  a  large  stock  of  prime  plants  at 
the  following  rates:  2  plants  $1.20;  6  plants  $3,00 ;  12  plants 
$5.00 ;  100  plants  $25.00 ;  1000  plants  $200. 

The  following  four  Belgian  Seedlings  took  the  first  prizes 
at  the  great  Belgian  Show  of  1864. 

Bijou . Raised  bydeJonghe. 

Lucida  Ferfecta .  “  “  Ulade. 

Haquin .  ‘‘  Haqum. 

Souvenier  de  Kieff. .  “  Jonghe. 

Plants  of  the  above,  $2.00  per  dozen,  or  the  four  varieties, 
one  dozen  each,  $6.00. 

Also  the  following  8  varieties  from  France  and  Belgium, 
all  of  which  took  prizes  in  1863  and  1864. 

Exposition  Chalons,  Lucas,  La  Delicieuse,  Frogmere  late. 
Pine,  Madame  Cologne,  Orb,  La  Negress,  and  Quinquefolia. 
Plants  $1.00  per  doz.,  or  the  8  varieties,  one  dozen  each,  $6. 
Russell's  Prolific,  SO  cts.  per  doz.,  or  $2.00  per  hundred. 
Fronoh’s  Seedling,  tlie  best  early  berry  in  cultivation,  50 
cts.  per  dozen,  or  $2-00  per  hundred. 

Lenning’s  White,  the  best  White  berry,  fruit  very  large,  a 
great  bearer,  and  fine  flavored,  one  of  tlie  most  beautiful 
berries  in  cultivation,  73c.  per  dozen,  $3.00  per  hundred. 

Deptford  White,  White  Pineapple,  and  White  Albion,  these 
are  all  very  large  and  valuable,  75  cts.  per  doz.,  or  $3  per  100. 
All  orders  addressed  to  WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

329  Green wich-st ,  New-York. 

TME 

GREAT  BUFFALO  STRAWBERRY 


SMITH’S  BUFFALO  SEEDLING-. 

Originated  in  1857,  in  ISuffalo,  N.  Y. 

ABNXIR  H.  ERTAlVT,....Sole  Owner  and  Proprietor. 

Tnis  Strawbebry  is  destined  to  take  the  lead  of 

ALL  OTHER  VARIETIES  YET  BROUGHT  TO  PUBLIC  NOTICE.  IT 
COJiBINES  IN  ITSELF  AND  DISTINCTLY  AND  PERFECTLY  DE- 
VELOPES  EVERY  ESSENTIAL  QUALITY  THAT  CAN  BE  FOUND 
IN  ALL  THE  BEST  VARIETIES ;  IN  FACT,  IT  IS  NOT  DEFICIENT 
IN  ANYTHING  ESSENTIAL  TO  A  SUPERIOR  AND  UNIVERSAL¬ 
LY  POPULAR  STRAIVBEKRY. 

Having  carefully  tested  its  merits  for  seven  vears.  I  know 
whereof  I  speak  and  am  ready  to  defend  tlie  BTJPPAIjO 
STRAtVBERRY  from  any  attacks  made  upon  it. 

It’s  great  productiveness,  size,  flavor,  and  firmness,  and  its 
wonderful  vitality  and  hardiness,  perfecting  its  fruit  even  in 
extreme  drought,  and  enduring  tiie  wintef' without  protec¬ 
tion,  make  it  the  best  Strawberry  ever  introduced,  and  I 
challenge  the  world  to  produce  its  equal. 

(Extract  from  “Moore’s  Rural  New-Yorker,”  July  16th, 
1864.  Mr.  Bragdon  having  previously  visited  my  grounds  in 
Buffalo.) 

“The  plant  is  evidently  a  strong  grower,  haidy,  and  has 
vitality  enough  to  perfect  all  its  fruit.”  “The  fruit  is  more 
acid  than  the  Trioinplie,  and  less  than  the  Russell.  It  is 
both  firm  and  solid.  It  is  a  firmer  fruit  tiian  tlie  Russell.  It  is 
remarkably  solid.  We  cut  open  a  liiiiidred  berries  and  failed 
to  find  one  tliat  was  not  perfect  In  tliis  respect.  And  tliis  is 
Important  to  consumers.  “It  is  a  very  attractive  berry- 
far  more  so  tlian  tlie  Wilson,  and  not  inferior  to  the  Triom- 
plie.  In  beauty  and  regularity  of  form  and  brilliancy  of  col¬ 
or,  it  excels  tlie  Russell,  as  we  liave  seen  tlie  latter.” 

(Extract  from  testimonial  of  Benj’n  Hodge,  Esq.,  Buffalo, 
one  of  the  oldest  and  most  experienced  fruit  growers  in  the 
State.) 

“  Its  combination  of  superior  qualities  renders  the  ‘  Buffa¬ 
lo  Seedling,’  in  my  opinion,  the  best  Strawberry  that  has  yet 
oeen  introduced  to  tiie  American  public.” 

From  Lewis  F.  Allen,  Esq.,  Black  Rock.  N.  Y. 

“After  making  thorough  trial  of  the  best  of  oiir  popular 
varieties,  I  do  not  hesitate  to  pronounce  the  ‘Buffalo  Seed¬ 
ling  ’  the  best  I  have  known.  I  know  of  no  strawberry 
which  in  all  its  combinations  of  excellence  is  equal  to  tliis.” 

Lewis  F.  Allen. 

As  some  parties  have  advertised  plants  purporting  to  be 
“Buffalo  Seedling,”  at  a  reduced  price,  to  whom  I  never  sold 
any,  and  as  others  from  either  ignorance  or  interested  mo¬ 
tives  are  endeavoring  to  make  it  appear  tliat  the  “  Buffalo  ” 
Is  identical  with  tlie  “  Russell  ”  (which  is  absurd,  there  being 
no  similarity  in  character  and  appearance  of  the  fruit).  1 
advise  all  who  want  tlie  genuine  article  to  send  direct  to  me 
for  it,  thus  avoiding  all  danger  of  imposition. 

Lithographs  of  Fruit  and  Descriptive  Circulars  containing 
testimonials  sent  to  all  who  request  them. 

I  have  a  large  stock  of  Plants  for  Fall  and  Spring  sales, 
and  will  fill  orders  for  any  quantity.  100  plants  or  less  sent 
by  mail  free  on  receipt  of  price. 

$3  00  for .  20  Plants. 

$6  00  “  .  50  “ 

$10.00  “  . 100  “ 

Agents  and  Agricultural  Houses  tliat  purchase  to  sell 
again,  will  be  allowed  a  liberal  discount. 

ABNER  H.  BRYANT.  Box  2759  P.  O.,  Buffalo,  N.  Y. 

CITEAWBERKY  Fruit  and 

i^Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Vines,  and  a  pjeneral  assort- 
Blent  of  Nursery  Stock.  Catalogues  mailed  to  all  applicants 
FRANCIS  BRILL, 
Nurseryman  and  Seedgrower, 

„  T>  j ,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 

N.  B.— My  Need  business  wi.,  hereafter  be  conducted  under 
Uie  name  and  style  of  BRILL  &  KDMERLE,  153  Broad-st , 
Newark,  N.  J.  FRANCIS  BRILL, 


CSEEAT 

Agricitlliirist  Strawberry. 

I  have  a  stock  of  unusually  Strong  Plants  of  this 
celebrated  variety, warranted  true  to  name  which  I  will  send 
post  paid  to  any  P.  O.  address,  packed  with  unusual  care,  as 
follows :  2  plants,  $1 ;  6  plants,  $2  50 ;  12  plants,  $5. 

ALSO 

RtJSSEr.Ii’S  GREAT  PROLIFIC,  SO  plants  hy 
mall,  $1.  By  Express.  $2  per  100 ;  $15  per  1000 ;  $.")0  lor  5000. 
Send  for  my  Price  List,  embracing  all  the  very  choicest  and 
newest  varieties  of  STKA'WBERRIES  and  SMALL 
FRUITS.  Plants  taken  up  and  packed  with  much  more 
tlian  usual  care,  as  letters  from  my  customers  in  all  sections 
amply  testify.  EDWIN  MARSHALL, 

Po’keepsie,  N.  Y. 

STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  for  sale.  Five  of  the 

^best  varieties  of  plants  for  cultivation,  viz. :  Russell’s  Pro¬ 
lific  and  Biifl'alo  Seedling  at  $2  per  100  :  French’s  Seedling 
at  $3  per  1,000 ;  Cutter’s  Seedling  and  Downer’s  Prolific  at  $3 
per  1,000.  Also  other  varieties  at  reduced  prices. 

For  sale  by 

THOS.  C.  ANDREWS, 
Moorestowii,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J. 


Hy  Mfill. 

G  U  A  F  E  ^ 

CHEAPER  THAN  THE  CHEAPEST.  First 
quality  of  Plants,  One  Year  Old.  Single  Eye 
Plants  grown  in  tlie  open  ground. 

PRICES-POST-PAID,  BY  MAIL. 


One. 

Two.  Three. 

Six.  Twelve 

Adirondac . 

$3  00 

$6  00 

$9  00 

Concord . 

30 

55 

75 

$1  80 

$2  40 

Creveling  . 

90 

1  75 

Cuvah02:a . 

90 

1  75 

Delaware . 

50 

1  00 

1  50 

3  00 

5  .50 

Diana . 

40 

75 

1  10 

2  10 

4  00 

Elsineburs: . 

40 

75 

Hartford  Prolific . 

50 

1  00 

Herhemout . 

50 

Rebecca . 

50 

Tavior  . 

50 

Union  Village . 

DO 

1  75 

6 

12 

23 

50 

100 

Russell . 

.  30 

45 

80  $1  50 

$2  75 

Fillmore. . . . 

.  25 

40 

70 

1  25 

2  2.5 

Golden  Seeded . 

30 

50 

90 

1  CO 

3  00 

Triomplie  de  Gaud  &  Wilson 

.  20 

35 

60 

95 

1  40 

Three.  Six.  Twelve 

Brinkle’s  Orange .  40  60  $1  00 

Franconia . .  50  90  1  50 

Improved  Black  Cap  and  Fastolff .  30  50  80 

By  mail,  postage  paid.  No  order  for  less  than  .$!  received. 
Descriptive  catalogue  of  Grapes  sent  free. 

Address  J.  H.  FOSTER,  Jr., 

Box  660,  West  Newton  P.  O.,  West’d  Co.,  Pa. 


AcSirondac  CJrape  Vines. 

eaeft.  dos.  Min'd. 

1  year.  No.  3,  layers  from  small  wood .  $IC0 

1  “  No.  2,  Strong,  pot  vines  and  layers$2  00  $18  00  140 

1  '  No.  1, 'Very  Strong— layers .  3  00  30  00  210 

2  ‘  No.  2,  Strong  'Vines .  4  00  36  00  280 

2  “  No.  1,  Very  Strong  Vines  . 5  00  48  00  350 

Also,  Iona,  Israella,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Creveling,  Concord, 
Delaware,  Diana,  Hartford  Prolific,  Northern  Muscadine, 
Rebecca,  Rogers’  Hybrid,  and  To  Kalon. 

Priced  Circulars  will  be  sent  on  application. 

Will  be  forwarded,  securely  packed  in  lioxes,  without 
charge,  or  small  packages  by  mail,  pro-paid,  ifsoordered. 

The  discovery  and  introduction  of  the  Adirondac  Grape  is 
an  event  of  the  higliest  Impcn-tance  to  fruit  growers,  and  tlie 
greatest  advance  yet  attained  in  Native  grapes. 

Its  peculiarities  are,  extreme  earlir.ess,  large  berries  and 
clusters,  tender  and  thin  skin,  melting  witliont  any  pereep- 
tihle  pulp,  and  of  the  most  delicious  and  delic.ate  flavor, 
reminding  one  of  that  splendid  IIot-House  Grape,  the 
Black  Hamburg.”  Address  JOHN  W.  BAILEY, 

Plattsburgh,  Clinton  Co.,  N.  Y. 


Hale’s  Early  Peach. 

This  new  peach  stands  unrivalled  for  its  earliness,  produc¬ 
tiveness  and  early  hearing  qualities. 

The  fruit  resem'bles  the  “Large  Early  York,”  and  ripens  6 
to  10  days  earlier  tlian  “Troth’s  Early  Red,”  hitherto  the 
best  very  early  variety. 

Price  of  good  size  yearlings,  50  cts. ;  small  yearlings,  42  cts. 

AUSTIN  J.  ROBERT’S, 
“Peach  Orchards,”  Lakeville,  Mass. 


ijO. RAPE  VINES  FOR  SPRING  1865.— Adirondac, 

wJffiona,  Israella.  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Del.aware,  Concord,  Rog- 
ere’  Hybrids,  No.  15  and  19,  Hartford  Prolific  and  Clinton. 
For  .sale  at  low  prices  by  J.  W.  CONE,  Vineland,  N.  J.  For¬ 
merly  Norfolk,  Conn. 

The  aliove  vines  are  of  best  quality  and  warranted  true  to 
name.  Samples  sent  on  receipt  of  price  per  dozen.  Vines 
sent  by  mail  post-paid,  when  so  ordered. 


The  HOLCOMB  BLACKBERRY.— “  A  very  fine 
fruit  indeed:  in  fact  the  finest  of  the  three  blackberries.” 
Hovey.— “Tlie  Chair  concurs.”— Prest.  Wilder.  Now  offer¬ 
ed  to  the  public,  for  the  first  time.  Four  for  $1.00:  Ten  for 
$2.00.  Conn.  Hort.  Agency ;  Hartford,  Conn.  D.  S.  DEWEY. 


The  true  cape  cod  cranberry  for 

Spring  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  culture,  and  for 
swamps.  Under  my  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  husbels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  with  prices  of  plants,  with  nursery 
catalogue  complete,  will  be  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON.  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 

Buy  the  Iiig:hte§t— -Malsted’s. 


PARSONS  &  CO., 

Offer 

¥  I  M  E  ^ 

of  all  the  leading  varieties  of  excellent  quality. 

Among  them  are 

each,  per  doz.  per  100.  per  1000. 

Iona . . . $2.00  $18.00  $125 

Allen’s  Hybrid.  75  7.00  40 

Concord,  1  year..  25  2.50  13  $100 

2  “  50  4.00  25 

Delaware .  50  5.00  25 

Foreigu  Vines  of  all  the  sorts  and  finely  grown  at 

1  year,  $5  per  doz. ;  $3.5  per  100 

2  years,  8  “  “  50  “ 

In  addition  to  their  other 

FRUIT  TREES 

Tliey  offer  PEAR  TREES  of  extra  size. 

Tliey  commend  to  the  special  attention  of  nurserymen  thel* 
stock  of  clioice 

embracing  nearly  200  varieties,  which  they  offer  at  low  rates  , 
among  them  are 

CupRESsus  Law-soxiana . $6  per  doz. 

THUIOPSIS  BOREALIS .  6  "  “ 

Junipers . $35  per  100 

Arbor  Vita;,  Siberian .  lO  “  " 

do  American .  6  “  “ 

PiCEA  Nordmaniana . 50  “  “ 

Pines,  Austrian . 20  “  “ 

do  Scotch,  large .  20  "  “ 

Upright  Yew,  quite  hardy . 85  “  “ 

Norway  Spruce . 12  “  “ 

Golden  Yew . 

STREET  TREES.  large  and  liandsome. 

FLOWERING  SHRUBS  in  great  variety. 

HOSES,  Hybrid  Perpetual,  on  their  own  roots,  not  grafted 
or  budded,  $20  per  100. 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  he.alth. 

STOVE  PLANTS  in  variety. 

RHODODENDRONS,  botli  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
in  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  they  refer  to  their  Catalogues  fos 
which  address  them  at 

_ FlMslaing,  near  gJew  York. 

^  Trees  hhcI  Tines,  g 

The  undersigned,  having  entered  into  a  cop.artnership  with 
Lindley  M.  Ferris,  Nurserym.an  of  Poughkeepsie,  N.  Y., 
to  which  place  he  will  remove  ids  Nursery  Stock  at  the  open¬ 
ing  of  the  Spring,  would  call  the  attention  of  his  customers 
and  the  public  to  tlieir  extensive  stock  of  Evergreens, 
Deciduous  and  Ornamental  Trees  ;  Apple,  Pear,  Cheb- 
ey.  Plum,  and  all  the  smaller  Fruits. 

Witli  our  .ample  propagating  .and  growing  houses,  we  hope 
to  ofl’er  as  large  a  supply  of  the  best  and  most  rare  varieties 
of  Grape  Vines,  as  well  as  the  leading  kinds  now  cultivated, 
at  as  reasonable  prices  as  they  can  be  obtained  elsewliere. 

As  it  is  necessary  to  clear  a  portion  of  oiir  Nursery  grounds 
this  spring  for  otiier  purposes,  on  wliich  are  Apple,  Pear, 
Deciduous,  and  Evergreen  Trees,  inducements  will  be  ofl'er- 
ed  to  those  who  wish  to  purchase.  A.  J.  CAT  WOOD. 
Modena,  Ulster  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Feb.  1. 1865. 

Address  FERRIS  &  CATWOOD, 

“  Dutchess  Nursery,”  Pouglikeepsie,  N.  Y. 

Evergreens  !  Evergreens! 

We  have  an  immense  stock  of  Norway  Spruce,  Balsam 
Firs,  Scotch  and  Austrian  Pines,  American  Arbor  Vr- 
TvK  (White  Cedar),  Siberian  Arbor  Vitje,  i-c.,  &o.,  from 
small  to  large  sizes.  AH  liave  been  transplanted  once,  and 
the  larger  sizes  two  to  three  times  in  the  nursery,  so  that 
success  is  ensured  in  planting.  They  are  offered  at  low 
rates  per  doz.,  per  100,  or  per  1,000,  and  prices  will  be  given, 
packed  in  a  superior  manner,  delivered  at  Depot  in  Roches¬ 
ter,  or  otherwise.  FROST  &  CO., 

Rochester,  N.  T. 

Reid’s  Nurseries,  Elizabeth,  New  Jersey. 

David  D.  Bncliaiian,  successor  to  IVin.  Retd. 

Offers  for  sale  this  Spring  a  large  assortment  of  Dwarf  and 
Standard  Pears.  Apples,  Peaches,  Plums.  Nectarines,  Apri¬ 
cots,  Currants,  Gooseberries.  Raspberries.  Grape  Vines,  &c. 

Also  a  fine  collection  of  Hardy  Evergreens,  consisting  of 
Norway  Spruce,  Arbor  Vitaes.  Irish  and  Swedish  Junipers, 
Cypresses,  &c.,  &c. 

'The  stock  of  Deciduous  Trees,  such  as  Maples,  Elms,  Lin- 
dens.  Oaks,  &c.,  is  fine  and  can  be  furnished  in  any  quantity. 

Orders  by  mail,  addressed  as  above,  will  meet  with  prompt 
attention. 

N.  B.— Priced  Catalogues  just  published,  forwarded  on  re¬ 
ceipt  of  stamp. 

Onions  and  How  to  E.aise  Them. 

'What  soil  is  best;  how  to  prepare  it ;  how  to  manure  it ; 
how  to  tell  good  seed  from  bad:  how  to  plant  it ;  how  to 
grow  onions  trom  seed,  potato  onions,  onion  setts,  shallots 
and  top  onions  ;  when  to  pull  onions;  how  to  store  tliem  ; 
how  to  prepare  for  market,  and  when  and  where  most  nrofiU 
able  to  market  them  ;  wliat  onions  to  select  for  seed,  and 
how  to  grow  it,  and  a  hundred  minute  details  so  valiiabic  to 
beginners,  with  many  facts  relative  to  peculiarities  of  onion 
raising  in  the  Southern,  Eastern  and  Western  States  of  value 
to  old  growers.  Illustrated  witli  original  engravings  of  the 
“Dave  Warren”  Onion.  Early  Croclcer  Onion  (new).  Red 
Wethersfield  and  Potato  Onion,  Sowing  and  Weeding  Ma¬ 
chines.  In  paper  covers,  forwarded  by  mail,  prepaid  by 
the  subscriber  at  SO  cents  each.  Seedsmen  and  Booksellers 
supplied  at  wholesale  rates,  JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY, 
Seedsman,  Marblehead,  Mass. 


13S 


AMERICAN  AGRTCIJETURIST, 


[Aprii,, 


IMP®MTANT  FAKMEMS. 


Tills  Maclaisie  is 
as  Perfect  a  Mow¬ 
er  as  any  Single 
Mower  mow  oiler- 
ed  for  1S65. 


We  admit  many  good  Machines  were  made  before,  but  tiie  combination  so  tli.at  sinalv  tliev  slioii 
cellent,  liavin^l?oi;w:ir<l  Cut  in  Mowim;  and  Bar  off  tlie  avoiiniJ,  and  tlie  Reaper  witli  Ilea 
delivery  and  Self  llaUiiig,  and  then  an  arranprement  by  wlii'cli  the  Machine  mieht  wear  out  bc 

\i  A  r?  IT  T  "V  If  T?  V  ITf  Ot'rt  _ _  .  -  .  ^  ^  ^ s  • 


’  slioiild  be  bofli  cx- 

lear  Cut  and  Side 

Warrant  tbe  in  1  to  do  all  t bis,  making  it  worth 
poHBLB  Price,  and  yet  we  can  atlord  Jt  tlie  sa.me  as  tlie  best  lirst  class  Machines.  Cash  price,  $175  lor  No.  1  Mower;  $200 
for  Mower  No.  2 ;  $240^1or  Mower  with  lland-liake ;  but  tlie  best  oi‘  all,  the  cheapest  ol‘  all,  and  err  ‘  .  ~  - 


H.aker,  only  Sfd65« 

SMALLEY’S  CORN  PLOW  AND  CULTIYATOR 


embracing;  all,  is  the  Self 


J.  tv.  ISAIIV,  B'rest.  Ainei-icaii  AaricultJiral  WorJtN, 

,  *'3'  Coiirtlaiidt-st,,  New  York  Citv 

All  kinds  of  Implements  and  Machinery  at  Mannfactnrers’  prices.  Self-Acting  Gas  Macliines  for  from  10  to  300  Buniers 
Warranted  entirely  satisfactory. — Preserve  this  advertisement.  Duineis. 


Fiiiosi  Mowisag-  Maelatsae.  ■ 

Tills  Machine  li.as  been  in  use  four  successive  harvests,  and 
has  met  witli  the  hearty  approval  and  well  merited  praise  of 
practical  li-rmers.  We  call  the  attention  of  farmers 
to  our  Mower  ,  1800,  of  superior  manufacture,  and  pos- 

Bessliig  new  i.nd  valuaitle  improvements. 

Price,  No.  .,  4  feet  G  inches  cut . $190  00 

“  “  2, 4  feet  “  170  00 

“  “  3,  3  feet  6  inches  “  100  00 

AGE.\T.S  WANTED. 

WBSITCOMB’S 
HOKSE  IffAY  lEAKE. 


FRIGE. 


.840.00. 


AGENT.S  WANTED. 

We  call  attention  to 

HAIjSTED’S  Patent  Hand  Cultivator  and  Seed  Drill 
comhlned 

SHAREl’S  Patent  Coulter  Harrow. 

“  Hoer  and  Hiller. 

BROWN’S  lee  (h’eiim  Freezers. 

NEW  WORIAI  WRINGING  niACIIINE. 
Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds.— Seeds,  Fertilizers,  &c. 

HAINE.S  &  PEI.L, 

27  Courtlaiidt-st.,  New-Tork. 


liB4!>RWB':  B6ABaES, 

»»  qu.vllty,  at  lowest  rates.  For  Sale  hv 


best 


.JOHN'W.  orjIN'CY 
98  IVUllam-st,  New  York  City. 


Tlse  Clipper  oeb©  Horse  Mowei 

is  adapted  to  every  variety  of  surface,  and  to  cutting  ever 
kind  of  grass. 

This  Machine  is  cap.able  of  cutting  three-fourths  toon 
acre  of  the  heaviest  grass  per  liour.  and  can  be  drawn  t 
easily  by  one  horse  as  ordinary  two-horse  Mowers  by  tw 
horses. 

The  height  of  cut  can  he  varied  by  the  driver  while  th 
Machine  is  in  motion,  and  without  leaving  his  seat.  It 
simple,  durable,  and  not  likely  to  get  out  of  order. 

Two-Horse  Mowers  and  combined  Macliines  of  the  sam 
pattern.  i;.  h.  ALLEN  &  CO„ 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New  York. 

Clemieast’s  iBBapi-ovod  Hay  Fork. 

This  Fork,  liaving  been  thoroughly  tested.  Is  now  recon 
mended  to  Farmers  in  its  IMPROVED  form  as  th 
SIMPLEST  and  MOST  DURABLeT  as  well  as  th 
Mt)ST  COMPACT  and  CONVENIENT  PORK  i 
use.  It  is  so  balanced  that  It  CANNOT  DRIBBLE  th 
Hay  from  tlie  point  of  the  tines  as  is  tlie  case  with  almo< 
every  other  Fork  In  use.  It  is  made  of  Iron  and  Sfrei 
in  the  most  DURABLE  manner,  having  no  wooden  hea 
to  split  and  allow  llic  teeth  to  get  loose. 

Price,  Two  Tined,  with  Pulleys  and  Hooks,  $14  00 
“  ;;  “  ••  16  00 
Four  >•  17  00 

AGENTS  WANTED.  SEND  for  a  CIRCULAJJ 

Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds.— Seeds,  Fertilizer 
*c.,  &c.  HAINES  &  PELL, 

27  (fcurtlandt-st.,  Now  York. 


W.  &,  B.  DOUGLAS’ 

PATENT  ROTARY  BARREL  PUMR. 

Aiianged  with  the  Patent  Barrel  Attachment,  the  most 
complete  and  perfect  article  ever  invented  for  uumpiko  oh, 
and  ALL  KINDS  OF  LIQUIDS  from  baekels  and  other  casks 
up  into  CANS,  TANKS,  &c.  A  most  invaluable  Fixture  for  oil 
STOKES,  oil  KKFINEEIES,  DKDG  STOKES,  PAINT  MANUFAOTO- 
KIES,  &c„  &c.  We  make  two  regular  sizes  of  this  Barrel 
Pump,  viz.:  Nos.  1  and  2.  No.  1  will  pump  from  8  to  10  gal- 
Ions,  and  No.  2,  from  16  to  20  gallons  per  minute.  Orders  re¬ 
spectfully  solicited  byl 

W.  &  B.  DOUGLAS. 

MIDDLETOWN,  CONN. 

Sole  Proprietors  and  Manufacturers  of  the  article. 

Branch  Ware  House,  87  John-st.,  N.  Y.,  where  samples  of 
these  and  our  various  other  kinds  of  Pumps,  Hydraulic 
Hams,  Garden  Engines,  Sliip  Pumps,  Oil  IVell  Pumps,  Power 
Pumps,  Chain  Pumps,  Iron  IVell  Curbs,  Iron  Horee  Posts, 
Grindstone  Trimmings,  M^ronght  Iron  Butts  and  nin<>-es 
&c.,  can  be  seen.  ” 

All  the  principal  Haedwake  Mekchants,  Plumdees, 
Tinners,  and  Ageiccltcral  Dealers  in  this  and  other 
Countries,  keep  our  Manufactuees,  or  will  order  tlicra 
from  us  wlien  called  for 


MaSIory  &  8siiidf©rd’§ 


PIiAX  BRAKE. 

^Yliat  it  will  ®o. 

Read  tlie  following  Interesting  Letter 
from  a  Mannfactnrer, 

Saleh,  N.  Y.;  Nov.  SO,  1864. 
Mr.  ,Iohn  W.  Quincy.  Treasurer,  &c. 

I  started  a  new  Flax  Mill  this  year,  and  feeling  that  the 
price  of  your  Brakes  was  so  high,  thought  I  would  econo¬ 
mize  by  purchasing  an  improved  old-fashioned  Brake,  which 
I  did,  and  placed  it  in  my  new  mill,  and  run  it  four  days. 
After  running  two  days,  I  was  determined  to  test  it  thor- 
ouglily  witli  tlie  two  Brakes  I  piircliased  of  you,  two  years 
since,  and  liave  been  running  in  my  old  mill  at  Lake,  ever 
since.  My  tests  are  as  follows:  ' 

On  average  rotted  straw,  your  Brake  would  give  every 
time  full  100  lbs.  more  of  dressed  flax  to  the  ton  than  I  could 
with  the  greatest  care  get  from  tlie  old  Brake.  On  over- 
rotted  straw  I  got  over  200  tbs.  more  than  I  could’ get  by  the 
old  Brake.  I  stopped  dressing  and  went  to  flguring,  and 
found  that  to  dress  the  flax  I  now  have,  with  the  old  Brake 
would  cost  me  over  $8,000  (loss).  I  therefore  want  yon  to 
ship  one  of  your  Improved  No.  1  Brakes  by  Express,  as  my 
men  will  dress  no  more  flax  in  this  mill  until  the  new'Braka 
arrives.  Enclosed  please  find  check  for  $455. 

Toms  respectfully, 

P.  T.  Burdick. 

For  further  particulars  of  this  case  and  many  similar  ones, 
and  tor  full  miormatlon  concerniug  the  M.  &  S.  FLAX 
BRAKE,  send  for  a  circular. 

N.  B.— Head  last  hontii’s  Agriculturist  foe  descrip¬ 
tion  OP  A  NEW  AND  VALUABLE  FLAS  MACHINE,  AND  NEST 
month’s  POE  ANOTHER. 

Send  for  Circular  to 

JOHN  W.  Q,UINCY,  Trc.asurcr, 

98  TVilliam-st.,  New-York  City. 


To  FarBBiCB’s  aisd  llai«cSfiers. 


r.  Conn 


The  following,  from  H.S.  Ward,  Esq.,  of  Deep  Kiver  < 
explains  Itself:— "  Messrs.  Goldsmith  &  Gregory  Sirs  •' PlensH 
find  enclosed  .$2  for  two  ol  your  Hog-Catchim'’-’ implcmcntK 
for  my  neighbors.  The  one  I  received  from  you  works  to  a 
giarm-a  decided  success.”  Flvery  farmer  should  have  one. 
Price  $1 ;  6  for  $4.  IlUistratcd  circulars  sent.  A"-ents  want 
ed.  GOLDSMITH  &  GKEGOHY,  GoSien,  N  Y 


Every  Farsfifier  sIjosbM  Jaave 
oue  of  Ilalstcfl’8  Horse  Hay  Forks, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


133 


MEKCflAMT  TAIEOKIMG 
A.mjy 

CLOTHING  "ESTABLISH MBIT. 

ABB  ATT  &  BJOOKE, having  for  many  years  paid 
particular  attention  to  the  manufacture  of  Boys’ 
Clotlting  and  attained  a  degrse  of  excellence 
rarely  equalled,  would  call  the  attention  of  Pa¬ 
re  i»ts  and  Giiar«lia«is  to  the  large  and  attractive 
stock  they  are  now  offering  for  the  Spring  and  Sum¬ 
mer  Trade.  The  CUSTOM  Department  is  sup¬ 
plied  with  Choice  Goods  for  those  who  prefer  to 
have  tlieir  Clothing  BIADE  TO  ORDER. 

READY  MADE 
AND  MADS  TO  ORDER. 

PARTICULAR  ATTENTION  IS  PAID 
to  Mil^ITAKY  CI.OTMING 
am€l  lor 

FURNISHING  GOODS 
m  GREAT  VARIETY 
alwjijb  on  hand. 

ABBATT  &  M©®IM3 
No.  507  BROADWAY, 
Under  St.  Nicholas  Hotel, 

YOI^K, 

W.  IJ.— .Persons  in  the  country,  hy  sending  to  us, 
will  be  furnished  with  plain  directions  for  taking 
sucli  measures,  as  are  necessary  to  insure  a  good  lit, 
and  the  article  will  he  sent  by  Express.  Samples  of 
goods  also  sent  on  apiilication. 


Msliwifs^s  lloiait®!*  Mower 
asid  Keaper. 

The  success  of  the  Monitor  is  without  parallel.  It  em¬ 
braces  every  point  necessary  to  make  a  Perfect  Mow¬ 
er  a.iMl  Reaper.  It  recommends  itself  to  every  farmer 
for  the  simplicity  of  its  construction.  It  Is  proved  to  be  the 
I.ightest  Draft.  It  takes  the  preference  for  rtiira- 
bilit.y,  ease  of  management  and  good  work. 

Four  different  sizes.  Fnlly  warranted.  For  circu¬ 
lars  giving  full  description,  references,  &c.,  Address 

P.  NISHWITZ,  Manufacturer, 

'Williamsburgh,  L.  I.,  N.  Y. 

J.  N.  CIjOYBS, 

(General  Agent,  Centra,  and  'Western  N.  T.,)  Utica. 

P.  S.  MESEKOBK, 

(General  Agent,  Ill.,  and  Ihe  West,)  204  Lake-st.,  Chicago. 


I>raEce’s  Sliie  Qtasi  K©ii  Evaporator. 

The  uiulersigned  desires  to  call  the  attention  of  tlie  Grow¬ 
ers  and  .Manufacturers  of  Sorghum  Syrup  to  the  F.  I).  Drake 
Evaporator,  feeling  lullv  assured  by  six  years’  experience  in 
the  business  tliat  it  is  to  tbeir  interest  to  investigate  its  merits 
before  adopting  anv  otlier. 

Anv  one  desiring  information  on  the  subject  will  be  iur- 
nislie’d  witli  circular  containing  cenifleates  from  many  per¬ 
sons  who  have  fully  tested  them  to  their  entire  satisfaction. 
Address  -  .JAMES  CI-OUD. 

Cochranville,  Chester  Co.,  Fa. 

NATIONAL 

AGHICULTUIIAIi  W®KKS 
27  Courtlandt  Street,  Hew-York, 

SEND  FOR  A  CIRCULAR  OF  THE 

PATENT 

EEVOLfIKG  HAY  STACKING  HICHINE, 

AKD 

OLBMBNT’S  IMPEOVKD  HAY  FOEK. 


After  its  extensive  introduction  and  use  last  year,  is  now 


offered  to  tlie  [tablic  in  its  improved  form.  Agents  wanted. 
Town,  County,  and  State  liiglits  for  sale.  Send  for  a  circular. 


Town,  County, 
Address 


A.  M.  HALSTED,  (57  Pearl-8t.,  New-Tork. 


A  new  and  va-lnsible  Farm  Implement.  Something 
the  farmer  will  appreciate.  It  will  save  tlie  labor  of  tliree 
men  every  day  wiien  worked,  and,  ivitli  care,  will  last  many 
years. 

Agents  'Wanted  in  every  town  in  the  State  of  New- 
Tork,  to  manufacture  and  sot  up,  to  whom  a  Uiberal  Dis¬ 
count  will  be  made.— Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds. 

HAINES  &  FELL,  27  Courtlandt-st.,  New  York. 


Great  Ag'rictiltiirigt* 

It  is  claimed  for  this  New  Seedling  that  it  is  of  unequalled 
size  and  productiveness,  single  plants  producing  as  high  as 
294  berries,  many  of  them  weighing  one  ounce  each,  of  briglit 
glossy  crimson  color,  very  Arm,  liigli  flavored,  and  a  first 
class  market  berry.  For  an  account  of  its  origin  ;  intro¬ 
duction  ;  purchase  by  us  ;  character  and  productiveness  of 
the  plant ;  sl-ze  and  character  of  the  fruit,  and  other  infor¬ 
mation,  see  our  circular.  We  have  bought  of  Mr.  Judd  ids 
entire  stock  of  plants  for  sale,  and  are  now  able  to  furnish 
them  at  the  folloiying  prices : 

1  plant . . .  . . $  731  50  plants . ?  13 

2  plants .  1  20  100  “  .  '23 

G  “  .  3  00  300  “  . .  125 

1‘2  “  . ...SOO'lOOO  “  . .  200 

Our  stock  of  Strawberry  plants  tins  season,  including 
Golden  Seeded, .tko  best  early;  Russell  and  Pill- 
more,  of  wonderful  size  and  productiveness;  Prcnclt’s 
Seedling,  Triomplse  do  Gansl,  'Wilson’s  Al¬ 
bany,  and  all  otlier  desirable  kinds,  is  tlie  largest  and  best 
we  have  ever  offered. 

Strawberry  Plants  by  Mall. 

We  win  send  safely  packed  and  post-paid  by  mail 
For  $1,  1  Agriculturist,  8  Golden  Seeded. 

For  $2,  2  Agriculturist,  10  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell. 

For  $3,  3  Agriculturist,  10  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell,  12 
Fillmore. 

For  $5,  6  Agriculturist,  12  Golden  Seeded,  12  Russell,  IS 
Fillmore,  1-2  French's  Seedling,  6  Kitley’s  Goliah. 

For  $10,  12  Agriculturist,  24  Golden  Seeded,  24  Russell,  24 
Fillmore,  34  French’s  Seedling,  12  Kitley’s  Goliah,  12  Len- 
ning’s  White. 

For  description  of  above,  and  many  other  kinds ;  our  se¬ 
lect  lists;  mode  of  culture;  prices,  &c.  See  our  illustrated 
catalogue. 

Send  for  Catalogue  enclosiisg  stamp, 

J.  KNOX,  Box  155,  Pittsburgli,  Pa. 

""gMOVER  &  BAKERS 

HIGHEST  PKEMIUm 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  BOCK  STITCH 

SEWING  MACHINES, 

4S5  BKOAHWAY,  NEW  YOKK. 

F RUE’S  POTATO  PLANTER  SAVES  THE  LA- 

bor  of  twelve  men.  Send  for  circulars. 

J.  L.  TRUE,  Garland,  Maine. 


134 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[April, 


Com  PlaBalsBig  !  Tiaiie  Saved. 

Every  farmer  should  have  oneoa-  more  of  Thos.  B.  McCon- 
aushey’s  Batmt  Corn  Droppers.  They  will  positively  save 
one  half  the  time,  over  the  old  way  of  dropping  corn. 

For  Three  Dollars  I  will  send  one  Dropper  to  any  address 
free  of  Express  charges. 

A  liberal  discount  made  to  them  that  bny  to  sell  again, 
vtddress  THOS.  B.  JIcCONAUGHEl, 

Newark,  Delaware. 


Wbat  Every  one  Having  a  Garden  Slionld  Bny. 

One  of  PARR’S  GARDEN  CHESTS,  fitted  with 
the  most  approved  gardening  implements  in  ordinary  use. 
The  articles  requiring  a  long  handle  sucli  as  Grafting  Saw, 
Tree  Scraper,  Ilo&s.ltake.  &c.,  are  all  made  to  fit  into  an 
Improved  screw  jointed  handle,  jointed  in  lengths  to  lit  In 
the  Chest. 

Parr’s  Horticultural  Chest. 

A  larger  size  of  the  above  with  drawers  and  partitions  to 
contain  seeds,  &c. 

Parr’s  Children’s  CJarden  §etts. 

Consisting  of  Hoe,  Rake,  Spade  and  Garden  Fork  with 
long  handles  also. 

Tool  CUests  of  all  sizes,  with  tools  suitable  for  farmers 
use. 

For  sale  by  all  respectable  Dealers  in  Hardware,  Yankee 
Notions  and  Agricultural  implements  and  seeds,  whose  aiten* 
lion  is  called  to  the  immense  demand  for  these  goods. 

Send  for  Illustrated  Circular  to  Manufacturer. 

OKO.  PARK,  BuUalo.  N.  Y. 


THE  UIIVERSAL 


Cog-Wheel  Clothes  Wi’isiger 


was  pronounced  superior  to  all  others  at 

The  World’s  Fair,  in  London,  1862, 

received  tlie  BRONZE  MEDAL  (higliest  premium)  at  the 
(freat  Fair  of  the 

American  Institute,  in  New  York  City,  in  1863, 

It  lias  also  received  the 


FIRST  PREMIUMS 


at  the  following  STATE  FAIRS: 

NEW  YORK . 1802 . 1803 

VERMONT, . 1803 

PENNSYLVANIA, . 1863 . 1864 

MICHIGAN . IS&t 

INDIANA . 1863 . 1864 

ILLINOIS . 1863 . 1831 

IOWA . .1863 . 1864 

WISCONSIN . 1864 

CONN.  RIVER  VALLEY  FAIR . 1864 

CHAMPLAIN  VALLEY  FAIR . 1861 

and  at  the  principal  COUNTY  and  INSTITUTE  FAIRS 
throughout  the  land. 


Opinion  of  Orange  Judd,  Esq.,  Editor  Amer¬ 
ican  Agriculturist. 

It  Is,  In  reality,  a  Clothes  Saver  I  a  Tune  Saver  /  and  a 
Strength  Saver!  We  tliink  the  macliine  more  limn  page  for 
itself 'every  year,  in  tlie  saving  of  garments !  Tliere  are  sev¬ 
eral  kinds,  nearly  alike  in  general  construction,  hut  we  con¬ 
sider  it  Important  tliat  tlie  Wringer  be  fitted  with  COGS, 
otherwise  a  mass  of  garments  may  clog  the  rollers,  and  tlie 
rollers  upon  thecranic-sliaft  slip,  and  tear  ttie  clotlies.  Our 
own  is  one  of  the  fii-st  made,  and  it  is  as  good  as  new,  after 
nearly  four  years’  constant  use  ! 

tW  See  also  Premium  list  in  tliis  paper  and  advertisement 
In  back  numbers  of  the  Agricnlturi.st. 

Prices  for  the  best  family  sizes— WITH  COGS— No.  2,  $10. 
No.  IK,  $12.  On  receipt  of  tlie  price  from  places  wliere  no 
one  Is  selling,  we  will  send  the  U.  C.  W.  free  of  exnense. 
iS-  EVERY  WRINGER  WITH  COGS  IS  WARRANTED! 

Good  canvassers  can  find  profitable  employment  selling 
the  U.  C.  W.  For  terms  and  Girculars  address 

K.  C.  BROWNING,  Genl.  Ag't,  347  Broadwv.y,  N.  T. 


The  Nonpareil  'Washing  Machine, 

Is  the  only  entirely  reliable  Washing  Machine  in  existence. 

Oeared  to  run  three  turns  of  the  crank  to  one  turn  of  the 
kand. 

It  has  been  in  constant  use  in  the  family  of  Mr.  Judd,  the 
Proprietor  of  this  Journal,  and  In  that  of  Mr.  Munn,  proprle- 
ter  of  tlie  geicntlfic  American,  since  1861.  For  description, 
lee  advertisement  in  preceding  nunibers  of  tlie  Agriculturist. 

|3f*  Send  for  free  Circular  to 

OAKLEY  &  KEATING.  1S4  Water-street,  New-Tork. 


“  A  Capital  Little  Present  to  a  Friend  in  the 
.4i-iiiy.”--Jtn>D’s  American  Agricutlurist. 


Farmer’s  “  Your  Boy’s  Army  outfit  is  not 
Complete  without  it.” 

“  It  contains  a  compl.ete  assortment  (over  twenty)  of  Wri¬ 
ting,  Sewing  and  Toilet  Articles. 

“It  will  be  in  great  demand  wlien  once  its  real  merits  are 
known.”— TV.  Y.  Evangelist. 

“  It  is  brimfullof  jnst  tlie  articles  a  soldier  or  traveler  needs 
for  daily  wse."— Boston  Congregaiionalist. 

“  Liglit,  compact,  and  elegant,  can  be  carried  in  the  coat 
pocket,  and  is  not  aflecled  by  rain  or  dampness.”— PAilad’a. 
Jnquirer. 

Price  $2.2.5.  Sent  to  Army  of  Potomac  free  of  postage. 

Agents  Wanted.— Send  Stamp  for  Circulars. 

D.  B.  BROOKS  &  BROTHER,  Salem,  Mass. 


FORTABIiE 

For  sale  by  the  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  86  Ann-street, 
New  York.  Circular  sent  free.  Specimen  Slieet  of  TYPE, 
CL'TS,  &c.,  six  cents. 


MilistoiBC  l>pcssing'  diamonds 

Set  in  Patent  Protector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  JOHN 
DICKENSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  of  Diamonds  for  all  Meclianical  purposes.  Also  Man¬ 
ufacturer  of  Glaziers’  Diamonds,  No.  64  Nassau-st.,  New- 
York  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  postage 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  tlie  Diamond  Dresser. 


Perkins’  Patent  for  Preserving  Eggs. 


Agents  wanted  in  every  town  to  sell  Rights.  Send  stamp 
for  circular  to  HENRY  E.  RICHARDS,  Bloomfield,  N.  J. 


Cured  by  Bates’  Patent  Appliances.  For  descriptive  pam- 
plilet,  address  H.  C.  L.  MEARS,  277  West  23d-st.,  N.  Y. 


Albums  for  tlie  Million. 

We  send  our  16  picture 
POCKET  album  by 
mail.  Post  Pair!,  for 
75  cents,  and  our  24 
picture  Al’jum  for  Sl.OO. 

JUST  THE  THING 

FOR  SOLDIERS. 


Samnel  Bowles  &  Co., 

ALBUM 
Manufacturers 
Springfield,  Mass. 


EXCEIiSIOH 

Photographic  Establishment. 

C.XRTi  PnOTOQRAPns  of  all  Prominent  Generals,  and  dis- 
tinguislied  cliaracters,  and  a  large  variety  of  miscellane¬ 
ous  subjects.  Sent  post-paid,  at  10  cfs.  eacli. — “Special¬ 
ties.”— Tlie  finest  card  pictures  in  tlie  world— at  15  cts.  each. 
Card  Pliotograplis  colored,  20  cts.  eacli.  PHOTOCiRAPH 
ALBUMS,  holding  from  12  to  200  Pictures,  at  65  cents  to  $18 
eacli.  Also,  Rustic  Frames  and  other  articles  in  tins  line  at 
low  prices.  Dealers  supplied  at  the  very  lowest  rates.  Cat¬ 
alogues  sent  free.  F.  P.  WHITING, 

87  Fulton-st.,  Neiv-York. 

Also,  Agent  for  PRINCE  &  CO.’S  Celebrated  Melodeons, 
Automatic  Organs  and  Scliool  Organs. 


FOR  THE  MEIiODEON 

AND  ALL 

Instruments  of  the  Organ  Class.’ 

Znn<lel’.<»  Mcloclcon  In.striictor,  Containing:  the 
Elements  of  Music,  Progressive  Finger  Exercises,  and  a  large 
collection  of  Choice  Music.  $2  50 

New  Method  for  1  he  Melodcon.  Selected  mainly 
from  “  Zundell’s  Instructor,”  and  containin'";  in  addition  to 
Lessons  and  Exercises,  a  collection  of  Popular  Songs,  and  a 
variety  of  Psalm  and  Hymn  Tunes.  $1  50 

Carhai-t’s  Melodcon.  Elementary  and  Progressive 
Studies,  with  a  collection  of  Choice  Vocal  and  Instrumental 
Music.  $1  .50 

Winner’s  Perfect  Gnide  for  the  Melodcon. 
Designed  as  a  Self-Instructor,  with  Clioice  Music.  75 

Melodcon  without  n  Master.  75 

Howe’s  Seraphinc  and  Melodcon  Instrnctor.  50 
The  instructions  in  each  of  tiie  above  books  are  suited  not 
only  to  the  Melodcon,  but  to  all  instruments  of  similar  con¬ 
struction.  Sent  post  paid  on  receipt  of  price.  OLIVER 
DITSON  &  CO„  Publishers,  Boston. 


SEVEN  OCTAVE. 

ROSEWOOD  PIAWO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  49»  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latest  improvements. 

Thirty  years’ experience,  witli  greatly  increased  facilities 
for  manufacturing,  enable  us  to  sell  for  CASH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  once.  Our  instruments  received  the  highest 
award  at  tlie  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  jroars  at 
tlie  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Cash.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 


Hot  Witter  Fumaces 

for  Warming  Oreen-liouses,  Couservato- 
rles.  Graperies,  &.e, 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Prlnce-st,,  New-York 


The  Best  Piano-Forte, 

one  that  will  last  a  lifetime. 
WM.  B.  BRADBURY’S  New 
Scale  Piano-Forte  is  pronounced 
such  by  the  best  judges  in  the 
musical  profession.  They  “  Ex¬ 
cel  all  others  in  the  Essentials 
of  a  perfect  Piano-Forte,”  viz. : 
in  Tone,  Touch,  Power,  and 
thorough  Workmanship.  Call 
or  send  for  Circulars  with  Illus¬ 
trations  and  Testimonials  of  the 
most  eminent  artists  and  ama¬ 
teurs.  WM.  B.  BRADBURY, 
427  Broome  St.,  New  ‘S'ork, 

Iviu’s  Patent  Hair  Crimpei'$i. 

Ladies  try  Them  They  will  make  your  hair  wave  beautl- 
fully  Without  heating  it.  For  sale  at  Variety  Stores  through 
out  the  country.  Retail  merchants  will  be  supplied  by  any 
first-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New-Y'ork,  Philadelphia.  Pal 
or  Boston,  Mass,  i  .  m 


Sl.OO-— Preserve  Your  Eggs.— $1.00. 

One  Dollar  will  procure  the  right  to  use  Perkin’s  Patent 
for  preserving  Eggs,  Meats,  &c.  For  full  particulars,  see  ad¬ 
vertisement  in  Feb.  number  of  American  Agriculturist. 

Apply  to  HENRY  E.  RICHARDS,  Bloomfield,  N.  J. 

FERTILIZER§  !  J 

Lester’s  Pure  Ground  Bone. 
Peare  Fertaviaii  Criiaii©. 

E.  F.  COE’S  SUPERPHOSPIIATEOFLIME. 

I5ruee’§  Coiicentrated  FcrtiBizer§. 
I^lastex-,  e'tc. 


For  sale  in  quantities  to  suit  purchasers.  Send  in  your 
Orders  early. 


R.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New-York. 

Hrtice^iS  Fitteiit 
Conceal  tFuted  Maamre 


MANUFACTURED  FROM 

Animal  fibre,  Blood,  and  Pure  Bone. 

Sold  by  our  Agents. 

JOHN  M.  RICHARDS,  IH  Commercial-st.. 

Boston,  Mass. 

MICHENER  &  YOUNG,  206  Market-st., 

Pliiladelphia,  Pa. 

SEND  FOR  AGRICULTURAL  ALJIANAC. 

GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

58  &  60  Courtlaudt-st.,  New  York. 
SOLE  AGENTS  FOR  THE  UNITED  STATES. 

liOBI  POUBHETTE. 

THE  LODI  MANUFACTURING 
CO.,  with  an  experience  of  24  years,  again 
offer  a  uniform  article  of  Poiidrette,  pre¬ 
pared  from  the  night  soil  of  the  City  of 
New  York. 

The  experience  of  thousands  of  custom¬ 
ers  attests  to  the  fact  tliat  it  Is  the  clieap- 
cst  and  the  very  best  fertilizer  in  market. 
It  is  particularly  adapted  for  Tobacco,  Corn,  Potatoes,  and 
Garden  truck.  A  pamphlet  containing  directions  lor  use, 
&c.,  may  be  had  free  by  addressing  a  letter  to  the 

■LODI  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

66  Courtlandt-st.,  Ney,v-York. 

To  Farmers  and  Others. 

We  continue  to  manufacture  as  usual, 

Ground  Bone,  Pure  and  Fine. 

Also  the  Genuine  Fresh  Bone  Superphosphate 
of  Lime. 

Address  A.  LISTER  &  BRO., 

Newark,  New  Jersey. 

Liberal  discount  to  the  Trade. 

Aminoniatcd  Pacific  ^aiiano. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phospliate  of  Lime ;  to  which  lias  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  tlie  Trade. 

Pamplilets  witli  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer.  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
from  scientific  agriculturists,  sliowing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO..  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st.,  New-York. 


Buy  the  Best-— Malsted’s. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST. 


135 


imm  PURCHASING  AGENCY. 


w®m  s  A  r.  E . 

■FARMING  AND 


HARVEY  B.  LANE, 

151  Nassau-street,  New  Iforlc. 
CJardeii,  Field  and  Flower  Seeds. 
Fresli  €lm®ii  Seed. 

Extra  Conn.  Seed  Eeaf  Tobacco  Seed. 
Trees— Fruit  and  Sliade. 

IONA  AND  ISKAES.i:.A  GKAFE  VINES. 
Strawberries— Agriculturist  and  otliers, 
Wetliersfleld  Seed  Sower.  Frlce  f  8.00. 
Sole  Agent  in  N.  Y.  for  Moty’s  Wasliers. 
Aquarius,  A  Hand  Force  Fuinp, 
Price  $13.00, 

WoodriifPs  Portable  ISarometer,  etc.,  etc. 

A.  M.  HALSTED, 

IGI"  Pearl-st.,  New-Yorlc, 

Produce  Commission  Mercliaiit, 

FOK  THE  SALE  OF 


KEFEBESCES.— Beni.  Loder,  Esq..  N.  T„  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  K..  Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O..  Crasin  &  Co.,N.Y., 
»ud  Cliicago,  Ill.,  Geo.  M.  Todd,  Burlington,  Iowa. 

Send  for  Weekly  Price  Current,  Marking  Plate  and 
circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 


S.  B,  CODJOVER, 

Healer^ 

260,  261  &  362  West  Wasliington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Kefers  to  tlie  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


MARKET  GARDENING 
IN  NEW  JERSEY 

THE  SUnSCRIBEBS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  the  line  of  the  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid- 
wav  between  New-York  and  Philadelphia,  at  $10  per  acre. 
In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm,  these  lands 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet  potatoes,  peach¬ 
es,  grapes,  tobacco  and  nops.  All  crops  ripen  ten  days  ear¬ 
lier  than  on  Long  Island.  Squanknm  marl  is  delivered  at 
any  point  on  the  railroad  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per 
ton,  and  fertilizes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  applica¬ 
tion.  The  lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber, 
suitable  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  limber 
has  been  recently  cut  off.  leaving  tlie  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100,  Cord  wood, 
at  anv  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
conta'in  a  large  qi  antity  of  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  the  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station,  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  we^l  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  Tlie  whole  purchase  money  may  re¬ 
main  on  niortgage  for  a  term  oi  years  if  desired,  if  the  pur¬ 
chaser  cultivates  tUe  land. 

For  fiirtlver  particulars  apply  to 

F.  U.  CH'KTWOOl),  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O.  G^LES,  70  &  72  Franklin-st.,  New-York. 


THE 

Published  Monthly. 

Price  of  Subscription  for  One  Year, 

ONILY  si.as. 

The  Northern  Magazine  contains  the  prettiest  pictures,  the 
best  portraits,  Uie  niost  instructive  designs,  and  the  funniest 
caricatures  to  be  found  anywhere. 

The  Northern  Magazine  contains  the  most  able  leading 
articles,  the  most  interesting  sketches  of  natural  history,  the 
most  valuable  biographies,  the  most  beautiful  poems,  the 
most  funny  stories^  the  most  thiilling  adventures,  the  most 
valuable  information,  the  most  onrions  novelties,  the  most 
pleasing  lamily  articles,  and  the  funniest  jests  to  be  found  in 
any  Magazine'in  Europe  or  America. 

the'  celebrated  PlilVATE  JVflLES  O’REILLY, 
writes  tor  each  number.  Address  FRANK  BELLEW, 
NORTHERN  MAGAZINE,  No.  39  Park  Row,  N.  Y. 

P.  S.— Persons  can  have  three  specimen  numbers  by  sending 
30  cents  to  the  Ottice  by  mail.  Or  may  date  their  subscrip¬ 
tions  from  the  first  of  Jaiiuar3L 


A  Series  of  One  Hundred  Dollar  Prize  Puzzles  are  uoir  la 
coarse  of  publication  in 

MEKRVMAN’S  M®NTm.Y, 
the  best,  cheapest,  most  amusing  and  highest  toned  Comic 
Magazine  ever  issued.  Each  rairaber  contains  3‘i  mammoth 
pages  of  liumorous  stories,  jokes,  wit,  humor,  &c.,  beside  an 
Innumerable  number  of  funny  pictures,  all  by  the  best  artists. 
One  of  the  most  popular  features  of  our  Magazine  is  tlie  Puz¬ 
zle  Department,  where  every  month  will  be  found  a  clioice 
collection  of  Puzzles,  F.nigmas,  Rebuses,  Conundrums,  Rid¬ 
dles,  &c.,  which  will  cause  an  immense  amount  of  amuse¬ 
ment.  In  addition  to  onr  regular  montlily  Prize  Puzzles,  a 
prize  is  given  eacli  montli  to  tlie  person  sending  the  largest 
number  of  correct  answers  to  our  miscellaneons  puzzles. 
We  are  constantly  giving  in  this  department,  novel  tilings  in 
the  way  of  puzzles  that  will  he  found  in  no  other  puhlication. 

Tlie  other  departments  of  Merktman  are  ably  edited  and 
will  comp, are  favorably  with  anyotberperiodicalof  thekind. 
The  latest  tilings  in  the  funny  world  tvill  always  be  found 
here,  and  wliile  we  give  our  readers  the  very  cream  of  cur¬ 
rent  Fun,  we  are  careful  to  exclude  every  thing  tliat  can 
have  tlie  least  immoral  tendency.  Our  original  articles  are 
from  the  pens  of  our  most  famous  funny  men,  including  Bel- 
lew,  Artemas  Ward,  Quills,  author  of  tlie  “  Harp  of  a  Thou¬ 
sand  Strings,”  Josh  liiUings,  and,  in  short,  nearly  all  who 
are  really  talented  in  the  Funny  Way.  Our  illustrations  are 
unsurpassed  and  we  give  as  many,  if  not  more  than  any  sim¬ 
ilar  publication.  We  can  not  give  a  fair  idea  of  the  attrac¬ 
tions  of  Mekkyman  in  an  advertisement- it  must  be  seen  to 
be  appreciated,  and  those  who  fail  to  secure  ft,  will  miss  an 
intellectual  treat  bi*  seldom  furnished.  Call  at  any  neivs- 
dealers  and  take  a  look  at  it.  Specimen  copies  sent  free  of 

gostage,  for  ten  cents  each.  No  gratuitous  copies  f'irnishcd. 

ent  by  mail  to  any  address  for  $1  25  per  annum  •  two  cc#- 
tes  for  $2  25 ;  3  copies  for  $3  00.  Any  one  sending  five  sub¬ 
scriptions  and  $5  at  one  time  will  receive  a  copy  one  year 
free.  Address  all  business  letters  to  J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO., 
Publishers,  109  Nassau-st,,  Neiv-York. 

Mebkyman’s  Monthly.— The  lovers  of  fun  should  h.ave 
Merryman’s  fund  of  immor  always  at  liand  for  ready  refer¬ 
ence.  The  January  number  contains  a  $100  Prize  Puzzle, 
and  every  issue  is  filled  with  wit,  humor  and  oddities,  enig¬ 
mas,  riddles  and  puzzles,  such  as  would  serre  for  pleas.ant 
recreation  and  useful  study  in  many  a  leisure  hour.— Canton, 
Mo..  Press. 


Perclia^iiig*  Agency* 

The  undersigned  will  Purchase  to  Order,  on  favor.able 
terms,  and  at  a  moderate  commission,  any  articles  of  neces¬ 
sity  or  lu.xury,  of  small  or  large  value,  such  as  Supplies  for 
Families,  Goods  for  Mercliants,  Farmers,  Meclianics,  &e. 
Money  .sent  by  mail  or  otlierwise,  will  be  immediately  ac- 
Kiiowledged,  and  goods  promptly  forwarded  as  directed. 
Letters  ol'  Inquiry  will  receive  immediate  attention. 

S.  CONOVER,  Jr.,  160  Fulton-st.,  New  York. 
Refers  by  permission  to  Opposite  St.  Paul’s  Cliureli. 
Wm.  E.  Dodge,  Jr.,  Esq. ;  A.  D.  F.  Kandolpli,  Esq. 


American  roofing  company. 

GISEEN’S  PATENT. 

This  Company  is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  the  best 
articles  of  ROOFING  ever  introduced,  consisting  of  a  STOUT 
MATERIAL  made  WATER-PROOF  by  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  RUBBER,  hardened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  expressly. 

The  WHOLE  FABRIC  has  been  thoroughly  tested,  is 
WATER-PROOF,  and  unaflected  by  changes  of  weather. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Cloth. 

It  is  designed  for  covering  RAILWAY  CARS,  STEAM¬ 
BOATS,  DWELLINGS,  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  olieaper  than  any  known  roofing  of  equal  duraliility. 
It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samples  liad  by  applying  at  the 
Office  of  the  Company.  No.  94  Wall-st.,  New  York. 

HENRY  SMITH,  Agent. 


The  Best  and  Cheapest  Fanning 

LANDS  IN  THE  'WHOLE  WEST,  ARE  THOSE 
OF  NORTHERN  MISSOURI. 

Rebels  are  moving  away  and  are  selling  for  whatever  they 
can  get.  An  extensive  immigration  from  the  Northern 
States  and  from  Europe  already  begun,  will  soon  occupy  tliat 
part  of  the  State  and  develop  its  immense  natural  wealtli. 
Free  and  full  information  given  on  application  to 

ELI  THAYER,  1  Park  Place,  New-Tork. 


^ECURE  A  HOME. — Lands  for  sale  in  tlie  Cele- 
C3brated  I'rnit  Settlement  of  Hamraonton,  New  Jersey.  30 
miles  from  Philadelpliia,  on  Railroad,  and  ne.ar  tlie  New 
York  Railroad.- No  better  soil  in  the  State.— For  Fruits, 
Vegetables  and  Early  Gardening,  is  the  best  in  tlie  Union.— 
Hundreds  of  Acres  now  producing  to  be  seen,  on  whicli  is 
made  from  $‘200  to  $600  per  acre.  Slild  and  liealtliy  climate. 
Soft  Water,  Churches,  Schools,  Mills,  Stores,  &c.  Price  from 
$80  to  $2.5  per  acre,  for  20  acres  and  upward.  10-acre  fruit 
farms,  $:!00.  Terms  easy.  Title  perfect.  For  full  inibrniation 
Address  R,  J.  BYRNES,  Haiiinionton,  N.  J.  Letters  answered 


Maryland  liaitds  for  Sale. 

Northern  men  can  secure  in  mild  climate  and  healthy  loca¬ 
tions,  Market  Farms,  Elegant  Homesteads,  and  Fine  Planta¬ 
tions  on  the  Cliesapeake  Bay  and  Potomac  liiver,  near  tlieir 
celebrated  Oyster  Beds  and  Fislieries.  Adapted  to  tlie  cul¬ 
ture  of  all  Grains,  Tobacco,  Fruits  and  tlie  Vine.  Direct 
Water  Communication  with  great  Central  Markets. 

Free  Maryliiiid  surpasses  the  West  in  climate  and 
Productions. 

Correspondence  solicited  and  information  prompty  fur¬ 
nished.  H.  L.  HASKELL,  Real  Estate  Broker, 

Upper  Marlboro,  Prince  Georges  Co.,  Maryland. 


FARM 

•C^Acresat  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms,— Frank- 
.Inville'  Tract. — Glciieesl.or  Comity,  New.lersey,  25  miles 
louth  of  Pliiladelpiiia.  on  Railroad  running  froiii  Pliiladel- 
B^hia  and  Camden  to  Cape  May.  in  lots  to  suit  purchasers. 
Circulars  with  reportsol'  Soioii  Robinson,  Hon.  Wm.  Parry, 
and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  free  liy  addressing 
JOHN  H.  CUFI'TN  &  CO.,  Praiiklinville,  Gloucester  Co„, 
Sew-Jersey.  Also  Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


FJ1IIREE  REMARKABLE  BOOKS. 

Ju.st  Published  hy  arrangement  with  the  Autlior, 
DIARY  OF  MRS.  KITTY  TREVYLYAN. 

A  Storv  of  the  Times  of  Whitelield  and  the  Wesleys.  By 
the  Author  of  the  "  Sehoenherg-Cotta  Family  ■”  with  a  Pre¬ 
face  by  tlie  Autlior  for  our  Edition. 

One  Volume.  I2mo.  433  pp 
II. 

THE  EAHl.T  DAWN, 

Or  CHRISTIAN  LIFE  IN  ENGLAND  IN  THE  OLDEN 
TIME.  By  tlie  Autiior  of  “The  Schceuberg-Cotta  Family.” 

That  Wonderful  Book, 

CHltONICLKS  OF 

THE  SCHCENBERG-COTTA  FAMILY. 

Each  of  tlie  above  Works  1  Vol.  large  12  mo.  Price,  73. 
■M.  W.  DODD.  No.  .’508  Broadway,  New  York. 

Fine  Editions  on  tinted  paper,  beveled  boards.  Each  $2.50. 


WAMTEro  I 

AGENTS  for  onr  new  and  important  work.  “EiroMSH 
AND  French  Nkutraiuty  and  the  Anglo-French  Alli¬ 
ance  IN  THEIR  Relations  to  the  United  States  and 
Russia,”  By  Rev.  C.  B.  Boynton,  D.  D.  One  Vol.  Royal 
octavo.  576  pages.  Price  $3  .59.  Sample  copies  sent  free  by 
mail  on  receipt  of  price.  Tlie  main  oliject  of  this  work  is  to 
show  tlie  true  meaning  of  tlie  duplicity  of  France  and  Eng¬ 
land,  in  tlieir  Foreign  Relations.  More  especially  of  tlieir 
liostile  attitude  toward  our  own  country  during  tlie  struggle 
in  wliicli  we  are  noweifgaged.  It  is  a  "Book  born  of  the 
times  in  wliieli  it  was  writfen.  and  is  beginning  to  receive 
the  attention  its  true  merits  deserve.”  For  terms  with  full 
information.  Address 

C.  F.  VENT  &  CO.,  Publishers, 

33  West  Fourth-st,,  Cincinnati,  Ohio. 

Or  91  Dearborn-st.,  Chicago,  Ill. 


Spring  Fashions.  Spring  PasMong. 

DEMOREST’S  ILLUSTRATED  MONTHLY,  and  MME. 
DEMOHEST’S  MIRROR  OF  FASHIONS,  with  extraordina¬ 
ry  attractions  in  the  April  No.,  now  ready,  including  a  Gor¬ 
geous  colored  Engraving,  witli  Elegant  Fasliion  Plates,  orig¬ 
inal  Music  and  entertaining  Literary  matter.  Sin.gle  copies 
25  cts.  Mailed  free  on  receipt  of  tlie  price.  Yearly  $3.00,  with 
s  valuable  Premium.  Address 

W.  JENNINGS  DEMOEEST, 

89  Beekman-st.,  New-York. 

The  Agriculturist  and  the  Monthly  both  for  one  year, 
for  Tliree  Dollars  and  Seventy-five  cents. 


Sorgo  Josinial  &  Farm 

This  work  affords  the  latest  and  most  reliable  information 
upon  all  matters  relating  to  tlie  Northern  Cane  Enter¬ 
prise.  Marcli  number  contains  an  account  of  tlie  repeal  of 
the  Tax  on  Sorghum,  and  the  proceedings  in  Congress  upon 
the  motion  to  refund  the  duties  collecied  from  operators, 
also  proceedingsof  Sorgo  Conventions  and  much  interesting 
matter.  MONTHLY,  $l  A  YEAR.— Sample  Numbers  free. 

Addiess  SORGO  JOUPJIAL  &  FARM  MACHINIST,’ 

Cincinnati,  Ohio. 


AWE1.L.  PAYING  BUSINESS  in  their  own 
townships,  and  free  from  ri.sk,  is  oU'ered  by  the 
Pulillsliliis  Co.,  to  1000  Booh  Agents.  Please 
send  foi  a  circular,  &c.,  to  E.  G.  STOKlCE,  Auburn, 
K.  Y.,  without  delay. 


Agents  wanted — in  eveiw  city  :ind  town  in 

the  United  States.  Fift.v  cents  cash  will  be  paid  for 
every  suliscriber  obtained.  Sample  nunihers  free  to  any  ad- 
di’css.  Address,  enclosing  stamp,  “Publisher  CHRISTIAN 
USlONIS’l’.”  Detroit,  Miehigau. 


A  Cwrious  Puzzle. 

Above  we  give  a  little  diagram  which  doesn’t  appear  very 
wonderful,  hut  which  represents  a  feat  which  we  challenge 
the  readers  of  tlie  Agriculturist  (“  or  any  other  man  ’’)  to 
perform.  The  thing  to  do  is  to  draw  the  above  figure  with 
tliree  strokes  of  tlie  pencil,  without  erasing  any  lines  or  go¬ 
ing  over  tlie  same  line  twice.  Try  it  and  see  If  you  can  do 
it.  If  you  know  of  anybody  who  considers  liimself  pretty 
good  at  puzzles,  just  sliow  liim  tins,  and  our  word  for  it,  he 
will  give  it  up.  See  solution  in  Merryman’s  Monthly. 

A  man  was  recently  arrested  for  .attempting  to  steal  apack- 
age  of  Merkyman’s  Monthly  from  the  American  News 
Co.  in  New  York.  He  stated  in  explanation  that  he  had 
seen  advertisements  asking  people  to  "take  Merryman’s 
Monthly,”  and  that  he  was  merely  trying  to  comply  with 
the  request. 

Merrysiaw  in  the  Army.— One  of  the  greatest  treate  our 
brave  soldier  hoys  enjoy  is  an  occasionaicopy  of  Merry- 
man,  ivhicli  tliey  are  sometimes  so  fortunate  as  to  secure. 
Siittlers  easily  get  twenty-five  cents  a  co.py,  and  even  at  this 
price  tlie  soldiers  are  glad  to  olitain  it.  Tiie  pleasant  stories, 
comical  pictures,  and  side-splitting  jokes,  help  to  keep  up 
their  spirits  rvliile  far  from  home  and  friends.  Many  weary 
hours  of  camp-life  are  lightened  by  our  puzzles,  and  none  of 
our  readers  take  more  interest  in  this  department  of  our 
journal  tlian  “  the  boys  in  blue.”  Have  you  a  brother  or 
friend  in  tlie  army  ?  If  so,  just  send  liim  a  copy  of  Merky- 
BIAN ;  it  will  serve  to  while  away  an  idle  hour,  and  serve  to 
sliow  that  he  is  not  forgotten  by  the  loved  ones  at  horns. 

S^Wehave  some  novel  things  in  the  way  of  puzzles,  &c.. 
which  will  prove  a  treat  to  tliose  fond  of  tliese  things.  Just 
keep  your  eyes  open,  and  look  out  for  Merrysian  when  the 
hell  rings— and  when  it  don’t  too. 

The  Army  versus  the  Navy.- There  is  no  distribution 
of  prize  money  to  the  Army,  altliough  the  sacrifices  and  en¬ 
durance  of  the  soldiers  are  often  greater  tlian  those  of  sail¬ 
ors.  But  this  is  partially  equalized  by  tlie  publishers  of 
Merryman,  who  propose  giving,  every  now  and  then,  a 
liundred  dollar  prize  puzzle,  competition  free  to  all,  hy  solv¬ 
ing  which,  the  soldier  will  have  an  equal  chance  with  the 
sailor  for  prize  money. 

Draft.— Nobody  wants  to  he  drafted.  There  is  one  ex¬ 
ception,  however,  In  tlie  case  of  those  “drafted  for  the  dollar- 
ous  squad”  for  prizes  in  the  Puzzle  Department  of  merry- 
man’s  ,  Monthly. 

CJFeenljaclcs  for  AH-I 

A  series  of  S10O  Prize  Puzzles  are  now  in  course  of  pub¬ 
lication  In  Meeryman’s  Monthly,  for  correct  solutions  to 
each  of  which  $100  in  Greenbacks  is  offered.  See  present 
number  of  tliis  .great  comic  Magazine,  full  of  Fnn,  and  every 
thing  to  amuse  yon.  Splendid  Puzzle  Department,  witli  puz¬ 
zles,  enigmas,  riddles,  oonuiidrnms,  &c.,  and  a  Prize  Puzzle 
every  month.  Don’t  fail  to  secure  this  splendid  publication, 
it  is  the  best  of  the  kind  ever  issued,  to  say  nothing  of  tlie 
valuable  cash  prises  in  tlie  Puzzle  Department.  Tliere  Is  no 
deception  about  the  prizes,  as  tliey  are  paid  in  mone.v,  and 
the  names  and  addresses  of  the  winners  pnlillsiied  fn  I  lie 
succeeding  number  so  that  any  one  can  write  or  apply  to 
them.  Letters  of  acknowledgement  from  wdnners  of  prizes 
will  be  cheerfully  shown  on  a'ppUcation.  A  prize  of  $50  will 
be  paid  for  the  best  puzzle  ;  see  present  immlier.  Specimens 
free  for  10  cents  only,  $1  23  a  year.  Get  it  of  Neiosdeale.r^i  it 
there  are  any  in  your  town.  All  Newsdealers  and  Book¬ 
sellers  have  it,  or  will  procure  it  .for  you.  Write  plain- 
ly,  giving  name  and  address  in  full,  and  Address 

J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO.,  Publishers. 
liW  Nassau  street,  New  York. 

Burlesque  Lives  of  Lincoln  and  McClellan  (Old  Abe  ant 
Little  Mac),  Illustrated  with  32  very  funny  pictures,  liim- 
nlest  thing  out.  Both  in  one  volume  at  the  trifling  expense 
of  10  cents.  Free  of  po.stiyie.  Every  one  who  rellshea  fan 
should  get  this  book  J  G.lIANEY  &CO.,  109Nascau-st.,N.  j(. 


136 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


(Business  notices  :  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 

Moasrs  at  lloniiie. 

A  New  Religious  and  Literary  Monthly,  by  this  name, 
edited  by  J.  M.  Sherwood,  aided  by  a  large  number  of  our 
most  eminent  writers,  among  which  are  Drs.  Hunting- 
ton,  Sprague,  Thompson,  Scliaff,  Adams,  Bacon,  Good¬ 
win,  S'tevens,  Gillett,  Porter,  Prentiss,  P.-ilmer,  Ander¬ 
son,  Profs.  H.  B.  Smith,  Porter,  Liniman,  Stoever,  Prests. 
Woolsey,  Wayland,  Tayler,  Lewis,  L.  L.  D.,  and  several 
of  the  best  female  writers.  It  wilt  contain  also  choice 
selections  from  the  English,  French  and  German  period¬ 
icals.  No  pains  or  expense  will  be  spared  to  make 
“  Hours  at  Ho.me  ”  the  best  (as  it  will  be  the  cheapest) 
Family  Monthly  in  the  land.  It  will  steadily  aim  to  pro¬ 
mote  a  pure  and, healthy  literature.and  an  Evangelical  and 
I'atholic  Christianity.  The  1st  No.  ready  April  1st. 
Subscription  price,  $3  ;  Club,  S2  50  .  25  cents  a  number. 
_ CHARLES  SCRIBNER  &  CO.,  New  York. 

ScHiool  SHpei'isatemtleiits 
and  Teacliers  will  be  interested  in  the  series  of 
small,  cheap,  but  comprehensive  Lesson  Books,  on  a 
new  plan,  entitled  “  Lessons  for  Every  Sunday  in  the 
Year.”  They  are  arranged  in  series  of  52  lessons  each, 
with  many  notes,  references,  etc.  These  are  selected 
so  that  with  the  “  Connecting  History”  they  give  a  com¬ 
prehensive  and  connected  view  of  the  whole  Bible. 
No,  1  embraces  the  period  from  the  Birth  of  Christ  to 
the  end  of  Acts.  No.  2  embraces  the  whole  New  Testa¬ 
ment  in  its  connecting  history,  but  is  mainly  upon  the 
second  part  of  the  book.  No.  3  extends  from  Adam  to 
Elijah  ;  and  No.  4  (not  yet  ready)  will  extend  from 
Elijah  to  Christ.  They  are  approved  and  used  by  all  de 
nominations  ;  and  are  adapted  to  scholars  of  all  ages, 
able  to  read  the  Bible.  Nos.  1,  2,  and  3,  are  now 
ready.  As  an  evidence  of  their  value,  it  may  be  slated 
that  of  No.  1.  the  first  issued,  about  150,000  copies 
have  already  been  called  for.  Price  of  each  series,  15 
cents  each  ;  $1  50  per  dozen  ;  $12  per  100.  If  to  go  by 
mail,  4  cents  each  extra  for  postage;  or,  if  in  packages  of 
ten  or  more  3  cents  each.  As  specimens.  Nos.  1,  2,  and  3 
will  be  sent  post-paid  for  50  cents.  Address  Publisher  of 
American  Agriculturist,  New  Yoik. 

The  Pictorial  Phrenological  Journal 

Contains  Portraits  of  Tennyson.  Sheridan,  Cobb.  Phil¬ 
lips,  Susanna  V/esley — Mother  of  John — an  Indian  Chief, 
Franz  Muller,  Miss  Muggins,  Miss  Fury,  the  Princess  of 
Wales,  Florence  Nightingale.  A  Group  of  Warriors — 
Hannibal,  Julius  Caesar,  Pizarro,  Cromwell,  Charles 
XII,  Frederick  the  Great,  Scott,  Wellington,  and  Napo¬ 
leon.  Great  Surgeons — Harvey,  Abernethy,  Jenner, 
Hunter,  Cooper,  Mott,  and  Carnochan.  Also  Landor, 
Mrs.  Farnham,  Clark,  Kilbourn,  Morrill.  The  Human 
Face  ;  with  Ethnology,  Phrenology,  Physiology,  Physi¬ 
ognomy,  and  Psychology.  Gov.  Fenton,  Everett,  Aris  • 
tolle.  Major  Davidson,  Charles  Fourier,  W.  H.  Fry; 
The  Races  of  Men  :  Caucasians.  Mongolians,  Ethiopians, 
American  Indians,  .Malays  with  Grouped  Portraits  of 
each,  and  a  map  showing  the  Geographical  distribution 
of  the  Races.  All  Double  Numbers  for  Jan.,  Feb.,  Mch., 
April,  and  May,  with  numerous  Illustrations,  sent  by 
first  post,  for  $1,  or  $2  per  year.  Address  Messrs.  Fowler 
A  Wells,  389  Broadway,  New-York. 

Wlieeler  &  Wilson’s 

Sewing  Macluines. 

Woman's  Greatest  Boon.— We  would  advise  a  man  to  fore¬ 
go  a  tliresher  and  thresh  wheat  with  a  flail  rather  than  to 
see  the  wife  wear  her  health,  vigor  and  life  away  in  the  ever¬ 
lasting  “stitch,  stitch,  stitch,”  when  a  sewing  machine  can 
be  obtained.  The  Wheeler  &  Wilson  is  an  Invaluable  aid  in 
every  household.  Wo  have  had  several  different  kinds  on 
trial,  and  after  six  years’  service  the  Wheeler  &  Wilson  has 
taken  the  precedence  as  the  best,  where  all  kinds  of  sewing 
are  to  be  done  in  a  family.— American  Agriculturist,  Jan  1865. 

India  S5,ail$l}cr  Crloves 

Are  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands,  Salt  Itheum,  etc., 
and  an  excellent  protection  for  the  hands  in  Housework, 
Gardening,  ete.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  Ot  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  sizes,  $1.75  for  Gentlemens’,  by 

GOODYEARS  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-Tork. 

The  “PRINCE  OF  WALES.”— THE  SUBSCRI- 
ber  having  sold  his  farm,  otters  the  above-named  splendid 
Black  Hawk  stallion  for  sale.  He  is  five  years  old,  sired  by 
Vergennes  Black  Hawk,  by  Hilt’s  old  horse,  d.am  an  Piclipse 
blood  mare.  In  color  a  jet  black,  and  unsurpassed  in  beauty 
of  form,  elegance  of  style,  docility  of  temper  and  tine  action. 

His  stock,  yearling,  and  two-vear-olds  re.mark.ably  exhibit 
the  striking  traits  of  the  sire,  ills  entire  get  have  been  males 
and  in  color  black. 

The  owner  would  prefer  to  retain  a  part  interest  if  sold  to 
a  responsible  party.  Address  A.  P.  CU.MMINGS, 

Mamaroneck,  N.  Y. 

ra^HOROUGH  BRED  AYRSHIKES.— Bulls  .and 
-B-  Heifers  for  Sale  by  ALFliED  M.  TKEDWELL,  Madison, 
Morris  County,  Ne.v  .Icrsey. 

F^OR  sale. — A  pure  bred  Ayrshire  Bull,  one 

year  old.  and  two  bull  calves.  Also  a  pure  bred  Jersey 
Bull,  two  years  old.  W.  STANLEY,  No.  IG  Wall-st.,  N.  Y. 

STALIAN  (iUEEN  15EKS,  from  our  rcceiit  im¬ 
portations:  I'liuiTV  and  safe  arrival  by  Express  gnai- 
antecd.  Send  for  (!ircular  to  L.  1..  LANOSTROTH  &  SON, 
Oxford,  Butler  County,  Oliio. 

Buy  the  Sianplcst--- filalsted’s. 


Ays’sSiires  sit  Aaaetioai. 

Will  be  sold  on  Tuesday,  April  11th,  at  Southboro,  Wor¬ 
cester  Co.,  Mass.,  my  entire  herd  of  pure-bred  Ayrshire  Cat¬ 
tle,  comprising  sixty-llve  head  of  Cows,  Heifers  and  Bulls, 
including  several  valuable  imported  animals,  and  the 
choicest  stock  of  my  own  breeding. 

My  farm  is  located  three  miles  from  £<.x,lf.boro  Station,  on 
the  Boston  and  Worcester  R.  R. 

Sale  to  commence  at  10  A.  M.  Catalogues  ready  March  10th 
will  be  sent  on  application.  HENRY  H.  PETERS. 

Bwchamaefi’s  Mew  Mellow  Tea 

HOSE— Catherine  Spriint. 

A  constant  and  abundant  bloomer,  with  the  habit  and 
growth  of  Tea  Saffrons,  of  wliich  it  is  a  seedling,  and  difl'er- 
ing  only  in  the  color  of  Jiower  so  far  as  1  have  been  able  to 
Judge  from  four  years’  cultivation. 

The  flowers  are  invariably  oi  a  pure  deep  sulphur  yellow, 
and  contrast  admirably  with  ths  Saffron  buff  of  the  parent. 
Tills  I  consider  the  best  Yellow  Tea  Rose  yet  offered  to  the 
Public.  Strong  one-year-old  plants  grown  in  pots  will  be 
sent  out  at  two  dollars  (.$2)  oach;  2  year-old  plants,  strong, 
$;!.00  to  $5.00  dollars  each,  'as  soon  as  subscriptions  for 
one  thousand  plants  are  received.  Orders  booked  and  sent 
strictly  in  rotation.  ISAAC  BUCHANAN,  Florist, 

9  West  17th  street.  New  York. 


U 


€)J€>©4I  Cwi’acioaas.” 


The  new  DOUBLE  PANSY,  mailed  free  on  receipt  of  $1, 
toirether  with  my  Descriptive  Catalogue  of  new  and  rare 
plants.  PETEU  HENDERSON,  Jersey  City,  N.  J. 

Sample  Depot,  and  Seed  Store,  Nassau-st.,  New-York. 

CO., 

Geiieseo  Valley  Nurseries,  Roeiicster,  N.  Y., 

Have  nearly  401)  ACRES  occupied  in  the  cultivation 
of  gtaiida-rd  and  Dwarf  Fruit  Trees,  Small 
Fruits,  Grapes,  Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs, 
Roses,  Plants,  &c.,  which  are  packed  and  forwarded 
to  all  parts  of  our  country  re.aching  their  destination  in  per¬ 
fect  condition.  Orders  for  small  quantities  have  careful 
attention  as  well  as  tliose  for  larger  amounts. 

Priced  Catalogues  descriptive  retail  and  wholesale, 
sent  on  application,  for  five  cents  for  each. 

PEAR  TREES.  GRAPE  VINES. 
S’ursery  Stock  Generally. 

Cromwell’s  Patapsco  Nurseries,  one  mile  south  of  Balti¬ 
more,  Md,  Richard  Vincent,  Superintendent,  otters  for  sale 
tills  spring,  a  superior  lot  of  two  year-old  Standard  and 
Dwarf  Pear  Trees  of  all  the  leading  varieties;  budded  from 
tlieir  own  specimen  bearing  trees.  Also  Grape  Vines  of 
tlie  following  kinds,  by  the  thousand,  lumdred,  or  dozen, 
viz.:  Delaware,  Diana,  Concord,  Rebecca,  Union  Village, 
Logan,  Catawba,  Isabella,  Alvey,  Hartford  Prolific,  Early 
Amber,  Rogers’  Seedlings,  and  many  otliers  in  smaller  quan¬ 
tities.  Also  Exotic  Grape  Vines,  one  and  two  yeai-s.  most 
all  from  their  own  Fruiting  Specimen  Vinery.  Tliese  roots 
are  all  single  pot  grown.  Tlirifty,  well  rooted  and  true  to 
name.  For  Prices  and  furtlier  information,  Address 

RICHARD  CROMWELL,  Agriculturist  and  Seedsman, 

4G  &  48  Liglit-st.,  Baltimore,  Md. 

iDeiiR  and  Isi’aclia  C^rapes. 

II0VEM  &  ۩., 

Offer  for  sale  fine  strong  vines  of  tliese  two  new  grapes, 
also  Adirondac,  Creveling,  Delaware,  Dians,  and  other 
grapes  by  the  quantity.  5,0o0  foreign  grape  vines  of  all  tlie 
popular  and  choice  lots,  suitable  for  Graperies,  raised  from 
bearing  vines.  Address  HOVEY  &  CO., 

53  North  Market  street,  Boston. 

CRANBERRY  PLANTS. — The  best  bearing  vines 
and  no  others,  can  be  liad,  not  by  tlie  Tliousand  hut  by 
the  barrel.  Enquire  of  Doct.  B.  H.  STEVENS,  Essex,  Coim. 

Five  Hundred  'Tliousand 

CEANBEERY  PLANTS, 

for  sale  by  GEO.  A.  BATES,  Bellingham,  Norfolk  Co.,  Mass. 
Send  for  Circular  on  the  Cranberry  Culture. 

f^OBACCO  DUST  FOR  SALE,  an  excellent  arti- 
.SL  cle  for  destroying  vermin  and  insects,  affecting  vegeta¬ 
bles,  fruits  and  flowers.  Price  $3.00  per  barrel, 

P.  LOKILLARD,  IG  &  18  Cliaiubers-st.,  New-York. 

SEEDS  BY  MAIL. 

Offered  by  JAMES  SHEPPARD  &  CO 
214  Pearl-street,  New  York.. 

Per  Pound.  Per  Pound. 

Beet.— Early  Bassano. . .  $  75  CncuMBER.- 

Early  Blood  Turnip...  .  75  Plarly  Frame . $120 

Long  Smooth  Blood .  75  Early  White  Spine . 1  2u 

AVbi'te  Sugar .  70  London  Long  Green _ 1  75 

Red  and  Yellow  Mangel  Glierkin  for  Pickling... 3  00 

Wurtzel .  70  Lettuce.— Drumhead _ 2  00 

Caubage.— Early  York...  2  25  Early  Curled  Silesia _ 2  75 

Early  Large  York .  2  25  Royal  Cabbage . 2  50 

“  Battersea .  2  50  Melon,  Musk 

"  Sugar  Loaf .  2  50  Sklllmaii’s  Fine  Netted. 1  00 

“  Wakefleld .  2  50  Melon,  Water 

Green  Globe  Savoy .  2  50  Mountain  Sweet . 1  00 

Drumliead  Savoy .  2  25  Citron  for  Preserves _ 3  00 

Large  Late  Dramliead. .  2  CO  Parsley.— Plain .  60 

Red  Dutch  Pickling....  3  00  Curled . 75 

Carrot.— Long  Orange..  1  50 Radish.- Long  Scarlet... 1  00 

White  Belgian .  1  25  Scarlet  Turnip . i  00 

Altrlngliani .  1  50  Spin Acu.— Round .  GO 

CAULiFLOwEn.  Prickl  V .  50 

Half  Early  Paris . IG  00  New  Zealand . 2  00 

Celery.- Wlilte  Solid  ..  2  75Squasu.— Boston  Marrow2  50 

Turnip  Rooted .  2  00  Summer  and  Winter 

Chicory  for  Coflee .  80  Crookneck . ..1  00 

Corn  Salad  or  Fetticus.  90  Tobacco.— Havana . 10  00 

Lhkk.— Large  Flag .  2  00  Connecticut  Seed  Leaf.  .3  50 

Not  less  tuan  M  lb  put  up  at  above  prices. 


J^LUTING — FLUTING. — The  best  and  lowest 
price.  Fluting  done  at  MME.  DEMOREST’S  Em 
poriiim  of  F.asliions,  473  Broadway,  at  the  shortest  pos 
sible  notice.  Fluting  Machines  for  Sale.  Orders  for 
Machines  or  Fluting  attended  to  with  promptness  and 
fidelity. 


liSito®!’  for  Faraiaers. 

The  American  Exiiqrant  Company  is  now  prepared  tc 
receive  orders  to  import  through  its  extensive  European 
Agencies,  Gardeners,  Shepherds  and  Farm  Laliorers,  eitliei 
from  Great  Britain,  Germany,  Sweden,  Belgium 
Franck,  or  Switzerland.  Sucli  orders  will  b»  promptly 
and  satisfactorily  executed  under  the  provisions  ot  tne  law 
“  To  encourage  Immigration.” 

Farmers  in  all  directions  of  the  country  are  afforded  also 
tlie  opportunity  of  liaving  newly  arrived  Emigrants  carefully 
selected  and  duly  forwarded  by  tlie  Company's  Agency  at 
New  York.  Orders  or  letters  of  inquiry  sliould  be  addressed 
to  JOHN  WILLIAMS, 

.  .  General  Agent  for  Emigration. 

Office  of  the  American  Emigrant  Company, 

3  Bowling  Green,  New  York. 

Swedish  Farm  Laborers. 

The  American  Emigrant  Company  is  prepared  to  re¬ 
ceive  orders  for  a  few  tliousand  Swedisli  farm  laborers  to  be 
(urnislied  during  tlie  monttis  of  June,  July  and  August. 
E'armers  in  the  interior  who  desire  to  avail  tliemselves  of  this 
opportunity  of  supplying  themselves  with  these  desifahlL 
men  should  at  once  make  application  to 

JOHN  WILLIAMS. 

General  Agent  of  Emigration. 

 3  Bowling  Green,  New  York. 


Sawiiu^ 


MaelsiBses 


In  addition  to  the  manufacture  of  Steam  and  Horse  Powei 
Tlirasliiim  Macliines,  we  are  building  exteiFsivcly  Cross 
cut  and  Circular  Saws,  Tlie  Cross-cut  or  Drag  Saw  is  intend¬ 
ed  to  attacli  to  Horse  Powers  of  all  kinds,  and  will  saw  from 
20  to  40  cords  of  stove  wood  in  one  day.  We  build  two  sizes 
of  Powers  suitable  to  run  tliem.  One  is  a  two-liorse  Power, 
wliile  the  otlier  is  lieavier  and  is  designed  for  either  two  or 
four  horses  as  may  be  desired.  Tliese  macliines  are  in  gen 
cral  use  and  every  farmer  sliould  liave  one 
Our  Circular  Saw  for  cutting  cord  wood,  limbs  and  poles 
into  stove  wood  is  the  best  arranged  and  most  desirable 
style  in  use.  Our  machinery  is  not  only  substantially  built 
out  of  tlie  best  of  material,  but  is  flnislied  oil'  iii  a  very  tasty 
manner.  Address  JONAS  W.  YEO. 

Proprietor  Robinson’s  Macliine  Works, 
Riclunoud,  Ind. 

Every  Farmea*  Slaoiild  laave 

HARRINGTON’S  Combined  Seed  Sower  and  Cultivator. 
BAKER’S  Patent  Weeding  Hoe. 

GllIFFING’S  Steel  Clipper  Plow. 

OAHOON'S  Hand  Broau-Cast  Seed  Sower. 

Scud  for  Circular;  North  River  Agricultural  Wareliouse. 
GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO.,  PnoPRiETORS. 

53  &  60  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York. 

O  AGRICULTURAL  IMPLEMENT  MANU- 
FACTURERS !— The  subscribei-s  wish  to  contract  for  tlie 
manufacturing  of  two  hundred  (or  more)  of  BULLARD’S 
PATENT  HAY  TEDDER,  tlie  subscribers  to  furnisli  Hie 
castings.  A  sample  Machine  can  be  seen  at  tlie  OREGON 
IKON  FOUNDRY  of  HERRING  &  FLOYD, 

740,  742  &  741  Greenwicli-st.,  New  York  City. 

Sorghum  Sugar  and  Syrup. 

The  subscribers  are  Agents  lor  the  sale  of  COOK’S  SD- 
G.AR.  EVAPORATOR  and  CLARK’S  CANE 
MILLS,  the  best  in  use,  and  are  also  prepared  to  supply 
fanners  and  others  with  choice  selected  varieties  of  SU- 
G.4.R  CANE  -SEED.  For  further  particulars  and  de¬ 
scriptive  pamphlets,  address  BREWSTER  &  BOAIL 

Scotchtown,  Orange  Co.,  N.  Y. 

4.^11  MARYLAND  FARMS.— GEGGRAPUI- 
iCF cal  description  of  Maryland,  with  Catalogue  of 
Maryland  Lands,  for  sale  by 

R.  W.  TEMPLEMAN  &  CO., 

Land  Agents, 

48  Lexingtou-street,  (Up  stairs,) 
Baltimore  City, 

Embracing  a  description  of  the  Soil  and  Products  of 
Maryland. 

Send  Twenty-five  Cents  for  a  Copy. 

NORWAY  MAPLE,  1  year.  ’ 

a  ”  “  8  to  12  feet. 

Eor  sale  low  by  J.  A.  LEWIS,  Willimantic,  Conn. 

Agents  wanted  for  sale  of  Trees,  Plants  and 

Seeds,  in  all  the  loyal  States.  B.  M.  WATSON, 
_ Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth;  Mass 

GENUINE  WHITE  WILLOW  CUTTINGS.- 
^^100  pre-paid  by  mail,  for  $1.  1000  boxed  and  delivered 
on  cars,  $3.  5000  for  $13  73,  or  10,000  for  $25.  Also  the  Frencli 
Ozier  or  Basket  Willow  at  same  price.  Address  MARTIN 
ALLEN,  “Tub  Willows,”  Mendota,  Illinois. 

l>e§troy  Rats  aiB.cl  Roaches 

with  ISAACSEN’S  Phosphoric  Paste.  Depot  40  Fulton 
street.  New  York  City. 

■§:»RAHMA  FOWL  AND  EGGS  FOR  SETTING 

-fl-Bfor  sale  by  B.  W.  PERSONS,  Providence,  R.  I. 


w 


ANTED,  e<rgs  of  the  Silkworm  {Bomhyx  More). 

Parties  keeping  any  please  ofler.  Box  5602  P.  O.,  N.  V 


Catarrh.  Rheumatism.  Sick  Headache. 

Neuralgia.  Premonitions  Three  Health  Items. 

Nursing.  Erysipelas.  Presence  of  iMind. 

Eating.  Air  and  Health. In  Maroli  No.  (loc.)  of 

Poisons.  Vice  of  Youtli.Hall’s  Journal  of  Health, 

Apples.  Follies,  15.  $1>^  yearly,  New  York 

Three  P’s.  Diet  for  Sick.  12  tfnion  Square, 

Catarrh  and  effects, Ap’l  No. by  Prof.  Daiiiels. 

^RAND  OPENING  OF  THE  SPRING  PAT 
^TERNS  at  MME.  DEMOREST’S  Emporium  o{ 
Fashions,  473  Broadway,  New  York.  Plain  and  ele¬ 
gantly  trimmed  Patterns  of  the  most  recherche  style 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  THE 

ITami,  G-arden,  and  Honseliold. 

“AGKICULTUltE  18  THE  MOST  HEALTHFUL,  3I08T  USEFUL,  AKH  MOST  NOHLE  EMPLOYMENT  OF  MAN.”-VViBaisoTOK. 


ORARr<GE  JU®©,  ) 

PUBLISHER  AND  PROPRIETOR.  > 

Office,  41  Parit  Row,  (Times  Buildings, 

VOLUME  XXIV— No.  5. 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

Publislied  also  in  German  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


NEW-YOPdC,  MAY,  1865. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1864,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  tlie  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  tlie  Southern  District  of  New-York. 
B®’"  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  i/'each  article  be  credited  to  American  Agriculturist. 

Contents  for  May,  1865. 

Advertising  Tribune,  Herald,  etc . . . 162 

Agricultural  Departmental  Washington . H5 

Beans— Culture  of . .  •  - . .  . 

Beans— Varieties  of  White . . 4  Illustrations .  .Isi 

Bees — Apiary  in  May .  |40 

Black  Knot  on  Plum  Trees . .  . . . . 166 

Bladder  Nut  Tree . 2  Illustrations .  Ao3 

Bog  Land— Reclaiming. .II . .  •  . . . 14/ 

Boys  and  Girls’  Columns— The  Good  News— Some¬ 
thing  about  the  Hair— Be  Acquainted  with  your 
Neiglibors— Selfishness  Properly  Rewarded— Ad¬ 
vice  for  Boys— My  Mother- Problems  and  Puzzles 
—The  Young  Performers— About  Keeping  the  Bal¬ 
ance-New  York  Cityat  Night— Making  a  Tall  Man 

. . 6  Illustrations .  .159 — 160 

Bread— pictorial  History  of  a  Wheaten  Loaf... /Hus. ,  153 

Carpets— Suggestions  about . 16" 

Carrots— Field  Culture  on  Heavy  Soils . 151 

Clover  Hay — Good  Way  to  Cure . .151 

Columbines — Notes  on . Illustrated. .  156 

Cooking  School— Baclielor’s  Wish  Realized . . .  158 

Corn  Marker— A  Good  One . Illustrated.  .U9 

Corn  Seed-Method  of  Tarring . 150 

Death  of  President  Lincoln . 144 

Farm  Work  in  May . 13/ 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  May . 139 

Flower  Markets  in  New  York  City . 153 

Fruit  Garden  in  May . 140 

Fruits — Nyce’s  Method  of  Keeping . 155 

Furniture— Hints  on  Varnishing . . . 157 

Garden— Kitclien  in  May . 139 

Garden— Little  Things  in .  •••U? 

Gas  Tar — Uses  and  Value . . . . . . .  .150 

Glycerin — Nature  and  Uses . 157 

Grafting-Herbaceous . Illustrated.  .I5i 

Grapery— Cold  in  May . 140 

Grapes— Notes  on  Culture— Care  of  Vines— Mission— 

For  Cold  Climates— New  Varieties— Jlildew . 155 

Grapes — Training  on  Ledges . 151 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  May . . 140 

Hog  and  Cattle  Raising— Relative  Profits . 146 

Horses— Turning  out  to  Pasture . 147 

Insects- Repelling  Striped  Bug .  .  -  ISS 

Lily— Jacobean . Illustrated. .  156 

Lily — Lilium  auratum . 153 

Manure — How  to  Pitcli . Illustrated.  .149 

Maps  and  Pictures — Mounting. . ..157 

Market  Reports  and  Commercial  Notes . 162 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  May . 137 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  May . 138 

Orchard  upon  a  Gravel  Bed . 151 

Oxen,  Working — Managemeiit  of, . . 147 

Pasonies — Varieties  and  Cultivation . 156 

Periwinkle,  {.Vinca  minor) . .  Illustrated,. 157 

Planting — Deep  and  Shallow . 148 

Plowing  Sward  Ground . 4  Illustrations.. U5 

Plows— Draught  of  Light  and  Hettvy . 145 

Potatoes— How  to  Drop . ..Illustrated.  .U% 

Potatoes — How  to  Plant . 146 

Potatoes— Planting  Large  and  Small. .../Huslrated.. 148 

Potatoes- Tan  Bark  for . ....  155 

Recipes — Unleavened  Rye  and  Indian  Bread — Boiled 
Indian  Pudding— Scalded  Meal  Johnny  Cake — 
Wheat  and  Indian  Cake — Apple  and  Pie  Plant — Rye 
and  Indian  Apple  Pudding— Cooking  without  Milk 
— Pumpkin  Pies— Custard  Pies — Graham  Biscuit — 
Poor  Man's  Pudding— Steam  Pudding— Mock 
Sponge  Cake — Apple  Jonatlian— Potato  Cake — 
Breakfast  Cake-Nice  Breakfast  Dish— Substitute 

for  Cream— Rusks— Pop-Corn  Pudding . 1.58-159 

Seed  Time . Illustrated.  .151 

Slieep— Evils  of  Washing  . 147 

Sheep— Feeding  with  Grain  . 153 

Soils — Pulverization  of  Heavy.  . 151 

Soils — Renovating  Sterile  . . . . 148 

Strawberry  Show  at  Agriculturist  Office . 144 

Strawberries — New  Mulch  for .  ...151 

Sweet  Potatoes — How  to  Cultivate . 154 

Tim  Bunker's  Visit  to  Titus  Oaks,  Esq.,... . 150 

Tobacco— Care  of  Seed  Beds  .  151 

Tomatoes — Method  of  Training .  1.54 

Trees— How  Nature  Plants . 151 

Weeding  Hoe — Adams’  Patent . Illustrated.  .145 

Weeds — Eradicating  from  Fence  Rows . 149 

INDEX  TO  “  BASKET,”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES, 


Cows,  Kicking . . . 142 

Currant  Worm . 141 

Dogs  in  New  Jersey  ....142 

Downing’s  Book.. . 141 

Earth  Glasses . 143 

Farmer,  Extensive . 143 

Farmers’  Manual . 143 

Fences,  Gates  and  Posts.i42 
Flax  and  Hop  Books. . .  .144 

Grape  Trellises . 143 

Grapes  in  Spring . 143 

Grapes,  Isabella. . 143 

Glass  Seed,  Covering.. .  142 

Hard  Soap  . 143 

Horse,  Diseased . .  .141 

Ice  Cream  Freezer . 141 

Insects,  Unseasonable.  .143 

Laborers,  Farm . 144 

Law  Needed . 143 

Lice  on  Cattle . 142 

Locust  for  Timber.  ...142 

Manelli  Stock .  143 

Mangoes  Described  . . .  .143 
Maps.  Lloy<l  &  Co’s.  . . .  144 
Meadow.s,  Pasturing. ...  141 
Meat.  Keeping  Smoked.  143 

Music,  Good . 141 

Newspapers,  Many _ 143 

Onion  Growing . 143 


Onion  Sower  Wanted. .  .143 

Onions,  Poor . 143 

Photographs,  Animal...  .141 

Picture  Alphabet . 143 

Plaster  or  Gypsum . 142 

Potato,  Early  Shaw....  141 

Poultry  Show . 141 

Poultry  Statement ...  ...  142 

Primrose,  Chinese . 143 

Pumps,  Best  Kind . 143 

Quince  for  Stocks . 143 

Rose,  Buchanan’s _ ...143 

Sheep,  Beans  for . 142 

Sheep  Convention . 141 

Sheep  Dipp’g  Compoundl42 

Sheep,  Old  for  Wool - 142 

Sheep  Owning  Lambs.. .142 

Sheep,  Profitable. . 142 

Sheep  Pulling  Wool....  142 

Sheep,  Stretches . 142 

Spavin  in  Horses . 141 

Squash,  Large  Yield _ 143 

Strawberries  Sent  out.. 144 

Sweet  Potatoes . 144 

Syrup  from  Corn . 142 

Trees,  Diseased  Apple.. 142 
Trumpet  Honeysuckle. .143 

Vineland  Lands . 141 

Wild  Morning  Glory....  143 


Advertisement,  Free _ 141 

Agricultural  Implements  141 
Agriculturist,  Loaning.. 143 

Beans,  Coloied . 143 

Beef  for  Soldiers . 142 

Bees,  How  to  Hive . 144 


Buckthorn  Seeds . 142  | 

Butter,  Preserving.. . .  142 

Camellias.  Fine . 143  | 

Carrots,  Mowing  Tops  .141 

Chickweed  . . 143  | 

Corn  Husks  Wanted ...  143  I 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

In  our  latitude,  May  is  the  month  of  toil  and 
care  ■with  fanners.  The  weather  is  variable,  and 
they  are  in  the  midst  of  seed  time.  In  addition  to 
the  labors  of  tlie  field,  stock  of  all  kinds  require 
more  personal  attention  than  at  any  other  time. 
From  the  early  dawn  of  day  till  night,  good 
farmers  find  enough  to  do,  in  planting  corn, 
potatoes,  sorghum,  roots,  etc.,  and  preparing 
the  ground  for  other  crops.  Besides,  grass 
seed,  gypsum,  lime  and  ashes  are  to  he  sowed 
this  month;  and  the  farmer  must  bestir  himself 
and  see  that  nothing  is  neglected.  “  What¬ 
ever  is  worth  doing  at  all  is  worth  doing 
well.”  If  you  slight  plowing,  harrowing,  or 
any  kind  of  preparation  of  the  soil,  failure  or 
partial  success  may  be  expected.  Farmers  are 
co-workers  with  Nature,  and  must  do  tlieir  own 
part  well ;  and  they  can  not  do  their  work  over 
again,  if  it  is  has  been  poorly  done.  The  soil 
must  be  properly  prepared,  and  good  seed  must 
be  put  in,  for  the  best  treatment  that  the  crops 
can  have  will  not  make  up  for  negligence  and 
inattention  to  these  preliminary  operations. 

Animals. — Every  animal  needs  as  much  at¬ 
tention  and  as  good  care  this  month,  as  during 
the  winter.  See  that  they  all  have  a  good  sup¬ 
ply  of  feed  regularly,  at  least  twice  a  day,  ac¬ 
cess  to  clean  water  and  salt,  and  a  comfortable 
place  to  stand  and  lie  in.  Cold,  wet  ground  at 
this  season  of  the  year  often  produces  colic, 
scours,  or  some  other  disease,  which  might  he 
prevented  by  keeping  stock  in  comfortable 
quarters,  until  the  ground  becomes  quite  warm. 
Ewes  will  be  yeaning  this  month,  and  should 
receive  personal  attention — not  of  heedless 
boj’s,  but  of  careful  men,  and  there  is  no  eye 
like  that  of  the  owner.  Watch  breeding  animals 
closely,  whose  time  is  near,  visiting  them  late 
at  night  and  early  in  the  morning.  A  little 
timely  aid  will  often  save  a  valuable  animal. 
It  is  bad  policy  to  feed  cows  short  just  before 
they  are  turned  to  grass.  If  possible,  feed  some 


SI. 50  PER  ANNUM,  IN  ADVANCE. 

SINGLE  NUMBER,  15  CENTS. 

4  Copies!  for  $5;  10  for  S 12;  20  or  more,  $  1  each. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  220. 


cut  roots  daily,  to  prepare  them  for  green  feed, 
and  to  keep  up  the  flow  of  millc 

Beeves. — Increase  the  quantity  of  meal  a  few 
pounds  per  he^d,  every  day.  If  the  weather  be 
pleasant,  allow  fattening  bullocks  or  dry  cows 
to  exercise  in  a  small  yard,  several  hours  daily. 
As  the  warm  weather  comes  on,  their  thrift 
will  he  promoted  by  carding,  as  often  as  once  a 
day.  As  soon  as  grass  is  large  enough,  let  them 
graze  about  an  hour  daily ;  then  return  them 
to  the  yard;  but  do  not  diminish  the  quantity 
■of  meal.  At  this  period,  beeves  will  fatten 
very  fast,  if  managed  rightly.  If  meal  he  dis¬ 
continued  they  will  not  fatten  much,  till  their 
bowels  become  accommodated  to  green  feed. 

Buildings. — Remove  earth  and  manure  from 
sills,  or  other  wood  work  of  buildings.  Paint 
in  cool  damp  weather,  so  that  the  oil  will  re¬ 
main  on  the  surfiice,  and  not  be  absorbed  by  the 
dry  and  porous  wood.  When  buildings  settle 
unevenly,  let  them  he  levelled  up  at  once,  as 
standing  on  an  uneven  foundation  strains  every 
part  and  breaks  the  nails  and  cracks  the  walls. 

Birds. — Spare  the  birds,  for  they  are  great 
benefactors  to  farmers  and  gardeners.  l)o 
nothing  to  frighten  them  from  your  grounds ; 
they  destroy  legions  of  insects  that  are  ready 
to  injure  your  fruit  and  fruit  trees, 

Bees.— The  profits  attending  bee-keeping, 
ought  not  to  be  disregarded.  Abundant  direc¬ 
tions  are  given  in  “  The  Apia.ry”  every  month. 

Bones. — Collect  every  hone  possible;  pay 
poor  children  for  collecting  them  in  the  village; 
(25  cents  per  bushel  will  pay  them  well,  and 
you  too;  and  they  will  be  glad  to  do  it  for  less). 

Valves. — Give  calves  a  comfortable  yard  or 
pen,  whether  raised  by  hand  or  the  cow.  Con¬ 
fined  in  close  quarters,  the  floor  beneath  should 
be  cleaned  often  and  littered  abundantly.  It 
is  as  cruel  as  unprofitable  to  keep  them  tied 
in  cold,  filthy  places.  Two  calves  may  often  be 
profitably  raised  on  one  cow.  Always  scald  or 
cook  meal  for  young  calves,  before  mingling  it 
with  any  kind  of  milk  or  feed,  as  raw  meal  is 
very  liable  to  produce  scours. 

Carrots. — Do  not  fail  to  sow  early,  some  long 
Orange  or  white  Belgian  in  well  prepared  soil. 
Put  in  at  least  a  quarter  of  an  acre,  and  better 
all  you  can  take  care  of. 

Cranberries. — If  swamp  land  has  been  “  pared 
and  burnt,”  the  present  is  the  best  time  to 
plant  cranberi’ies.  Obtain  the  plants,  free  from 
weeds,  in  any  productive  cranberry  swamp,  and 
set  them  uniformly  all  over  the  land,  from  14  to 
18  inches  apart.  The  land  should  be  so  located 
that  it  may  be  flowed  in  winter. 

Corn. — The  season  at  the  East  is  early.  There 
is  danger  of  a  cold  May.  Have  at  hand  early 
maturing  seed,  to  plant  in  case  that  first  planted 
fails.  It  is  poor  policy  to  be  in  haste  about 
planting  corn.  It  comes  up  much  surer  and 
does  better,  planted  after  the  ground  is  warm, 
when  hot  weather  is  not  far  in  the  future. 


133 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


Brai-M. — Examine  under-drains  all  over  tbe  farm 
in  wet  weather,  and  see  that  surface  water  does  not 
work  in  and  displace  the  tiles  or  fill  the  channels 
with  earth.  Shovel  away  all  sediment  at  the  out¬ 
lets,  so  that  the  water  will  flow  out  freely.  A  h.alf 
day’s  work  cleaning  out  ditches  and  surface  water 
channels,  may  be  very  profitably  laid  out  on  every 
farm.  Mark  the  spots  which  need  draining  most, 
and  lay  outwork  for  next  fall. 

Knx.— See  article  in  April  number,  and  “  Prize 
Essay  pamphlet  ”  for  full  directions  for  culture,  etc. 

Fence-rows  and  Hedge-rows. — See  page  149. 

Grain  Fields. — Top-dressings  of  “  hand-manures” 
(plaster,  ashes,  guano,  nitrate  of  soda,  superphos¬ 
phate,  etc.,)  may  often  be  applied  early  in  this  month 
to  good  advantage. 

Grass  Seed  may  be  sown  upon  grain  or  alone,  if 
it  be  done  early,  but  much  seed  must  be  used. 

Hemp. — Sow  on  good  soil,  in  drills  or  broad-cast, 
1  or  IX  bushels  per  acre,  if  broad-ijast — in  drills  less. 

Hwses. — Look  to  having  well  fitting  harness, 
sponge  the  shoulders,  legs  and  feet  of  hard  work¬ 
ing  horses,  nights  and  mornings. 

Hoes. — See  that  every  laborer  has  a  good  one.  A 
poor  hoe  is  like  a  poor  ax.  A  man  who  attempts 
to  work  with  either,  will,  in  a  short  time,  expend 
time  and  strength  enough  to  no  good  purpose,  to 
purchase  a  new  one.  See  that  they  hang  correctly, 
are  made  of  good  material ;  that  they  are  kept 
sharp,  the  surfaces  bright,  that  they  may  be  applied 
with  skill  and  efficiency. 

Horse-Hoes,  etc. — Select  good,  well  made,  strong 
implements,  of  a  pattern  which  you  are  certain 
about.  Run  no  risks.  There  are  many  good  ones. 
Some  which  we  like,  will  finish  both  sides  of  the 
same  row  at  once,  which  has  several  advantages. 

Lime. — It  is  well  to  keep  a  supply  of  lime  on 
hand,  but  not  much  at  a  time.  It  assists  greatly  in 
ameliorating  stiff  clays,  in  composting  muck  and 
weeds,  etc.,  and  checks  the  ravages  of  insects. 

Machines. — Decide  at  once,  what  kind  of  ma¬ 
chines  and  implements  will  be  needed  the  present 
season.  Reapers  and  mowers,  threshing  maehines, 
cider  and  wine  mills,  should  be  ordered  in  time,  so 
that  there  need  be  no  delay.  A  long  time  often 
elapses  after  such  machines  are  ordered,  before 
iney  can  be  forwarded.  It  is  far  better  to  receive 
mem  before  they  are  needed,  than  to  be  obliged  to 
wait  for  them.  Mowers  especially  should  be  or¬ 
dered  without  delay,  as  early  grass  will  be  fit  to 
cut  next  month.  See  item  on  prices  in  “  Basket." 

Mangels.— 'Y'hXs  variety  of  beet  is  one  of  the  most 
productive  and  valuable  to  the  farmer,  as  food  for 
stock ;  it  keeps  well  until  grass.  Sow  in  deep  mel¬ 
low  land,  in  rows,  2  feet  or  2  feet  6  inches  apart,  to 
be  thinned  to  8  to  12  inches  in  the  rows,  accord¬ 
ing  to  vigor  of  the  plants  and  strength  of  soil. 

Manure  is  like  money.  No  farmer  ever  has 
too  much  of  it,  who  appreciates  in  what  his  we.alth 
lies.  The  days  of  prollig.ate  waste  of  manure, 
even  on  the  prairies,  are  fast  coming  to  an  end. 
Manure  hoed  crops  heavily,  especially  corn.  Sor¬ 
ghum  should  have  a  similar  preparation  of  the 
soil.  It  is  better  to  use  a  fine  manure  for  roots,  and 
potatoes  in  localities  where  the  rot  is  feared,  will 
not  bear  that  in  a  state  of  active  fermentation. 
Superphosphate,  ashes,  etc.,  are  good  substitutes 
on  the  last  named  crops.  Make  a  tank  for  liquid 
manure,  to  save  all  that  leaks  from  the  dung  heaps 
and  all  the  urine  of  animals,  to  be  pumped  over 
the  heaps  again,  or  used  in  the  liquid  state  diluted 
with  water,  being  applied  by  the  field  sprinkler. 

Jlfwiinsrs'.— Buy  hay,  rather  than  pasture  the  mow¬ 
ing  lands.  Top-dressings  of  soluble  fertilizers  such 
as  gypsum,  guano,  ammonia  salts,  ashes  or  liquid 
manures,  are  effectively  applied  now,  much  more 
so  than  stable  manures,  or  vegetable  and  animal 
composts.  Irrigated  meadows  may  be  manured 
by  putting  well  rotted  m.anure  (dung  and  straw) 
into  a  pool  from  which  the  water,  after  becoming 
charged  with  its  soluble  portions,  may  be  spread 
over  the  field— the  best  method  of  manuring  grass. 

Oat*.— If  oats  cannot  be  gotten  in  before  the  cold 
rains  and  wet  weather  we  usually  have  in  May,  it 


is  often  best  to  devote  the  land  to  corn  or  roots. 
Oats  sown  late  make  good  hay,  and  the  grass  seed¬ 
ing  does  better  than  if  they  ripen. 

Onions. — Take  pains  to  get  good  seed,  the  supply 
is  very  limited.  Sow  early,  4  lb.?,  of  seed  to  the 
acre,  in  drills  14  inches  apart.  If  the  land  is  now 
first  used  for  onions,  sow  carrots  in  alternate  rows. 

Feas  or  Peas  and  Oats. — It  is  best  to  plow  in  the 
peas,  and  harrow  in  the  oats  lightly.  Sow  before 
the  middle  of  the  month.  Peas  alone  may  be  sown 
later  on  good  soil.  The  mixed  crop  is  satisfactor)'. 

Potatoes. — Plant  early — use  no  heating  manure. 

Pmiltry. — Confine  as  soon  as  the  garden  is  sown, 
or  keep  them  out  of  it.  Put  hens  (in  coops)  and 
young  chickens  in  the  garden.  Turkeys’  eggs  ought 
not  to  be  set  before  the  first  of  May  ;  when  hatched, 
put  the  brood  in  a  dry,  warm  shed,  where  no  other 
poultry  have  been  in  the  habit  of  frequenting,  and 
keep  them  out  of  dewy  .grass  for  a  week. 

Pumpkins. — On  under  dr.ained  manured  land, 
pumpkins  do  not  interfere  with  the  corn  coips. 
They  do  better  alone.  Probably  the  cheese  pump¬ 
kin  is  the  most  marketable  and  best. 

Bakes. — Do  you  own  a  horse  rake  ?  If  not,  it  is 
time  to  procure  one  for  raking  hay  and  grain  stub¬ 
ble.  There  ere  a  large  number  of  wheel  rakes, 
with  a  seat  for  the  driver,  most  of  which  will  do 
good  work.  As  a  horse  r.ake  is  used  only  a  few 
d.ays  in  a  ye.ar,  it  will  be  a  matter  of  economy  to 
employ  a  pair  of  light  buggy  or  carriage  wheels 
for  carrying  the  rake,  and  the  axle  arms  may  be  or¬ 
dered  to  fit  such  as  you  have.  By  procuring  a  good 
wlieel  rake,  a  lame  man,  or  an  active  young  woman 
can  do  all  the  raking.  No  wire  rakes  do  the  work 
so  well  .as  the  wooden  toothed  ones. 

Backs. — As  soon  as  the  foddering  season  is  over, 
remove  the  feeding  racks  from  the  y.ard  to  some 
place  where  they  will  not  be  damaged  during  sum¬ 
mer.  Stored  under  shelter,  they  will  last  years. 

Boads. — Level  down  the  sides  of  the  beaten  track 
of  the  highway,  and  sow  grass  seed.  In  many 
loc£ilities  the  sides  of  the  highway  are  mowed,  and 
the  grtiss  yields  a  good  burden  of  hay.  Where  the 
earth  is  liable  to  be  washed  away  during  heavy 
showers,  sow  Kentucky  blue  grass  or  red  top  and 
form  a  sod,  so  that  transient  streams  of  water  will 
not  wash  gullies  in  it. 

Sheep. — Make  timely  and  suitable  preparations 
for  protecting  all  kinds  of  sheep  from  the  cold 
storms  of  rain  and  snow,  which  are  usu.ally  called 
“  May  Lamb  Killers.”  If  sheep  have  been  turned 
to  grass,  they  ought  to  be  .allowed  access  to  a  good 
shed,  during  most  of  the  time,  while  such  storms 
prevail.  Also,  to  prevent  scours,  caused  by  chang¬ 
ing  from  dry  feed  to  grass,  let  them  h.ave  only  a 
small  quantity  of  grass  daily  for  several  days,  at  the 
close  of  the  foddering  season.  See  grain  for  sheep, 
page  153.  Shear  early,  and  without  washing. 

Tobacco. — Weed  plants  in  seed  beds.  Sprinkle 
with  liquid  manure  in  showery  weather,  with  pure 
water  in  dry  weather.  Plow  and  harrow  the  field. 


Work  in  the  Orchard  and  Miir§ery. 
— The  very  open  spring  has  caused  the  press  of 
work  to  come  earlier  than  usual  in  the  nursery. 
It  is  not  altogether  to  the  advantage  of  the  pur¬ 
chaser  of  trees  to  have  a  forward  season,  and  we 
have  already,  in  the  middle  of  April,  seen  trees  sent 
out  with  their  buds  well  advanced.  The  present 
uncertainty  in  forw.arding  freight,  owing  to  the 
crowded  condition  of  the  railro<ads,  will  doubtless 
cause  many  lots  of  nursery  trees  to  be  injured  by 
long  delay  in  reaching  their  destination.  By  prop¬ 
er  management,  trees  that  appear  to  be  ruined,  m.ay 
be  saved.  If  the  trees  have  become  so  dried  th.at 
the  bark  is  at  all  shrivelled,  we  repeat  the  advice 
to  bury  them  for  a  few  d.ays  ;  light  sandy  soil  is 
best,  as  they  can  be  removed  more  easily.  Dig  a 
trench,  lay  the  trees  in  with  the  roots  all  one  way, 
and  gradu.ally  cover  them  so  that  the  soil  will  sift 
in  among  the  br.anches  and  come  in  contact  with 
them.  Place  a  stake  to  mark  the  position  of  the 
roots  as  a  guide  in  removing  them.  Allow  the 
trees  to  remain  thus  buried  for  three  or  four  days, 


or  a  week,  according  to  their  dryness,  when  they 
may  be  taken  up,  pruned,  and  planted.  It  some¬ 
times  happens,  that  trees  during  their  transporta¬ 
tion  push  out  a  growth  of  several  inches  from  their 
upper  buds.  In  this  case  eut  baek  to  a  bud  that 
has  not  started,  before  planting.  The  suggestions 
about  planting,  given  last  month,  will  stili  be  time¬ 
ly  in  cold  localities.  In  planting  do  not  .allow  the 
roots  to  become  dry,  but  cover  them  with  earth  if 
only  half  an  hour  is  to  elapse  before  they  go  into 
the  ground,  and  do  not  be  afraid  to  cut  back  freely. 

Budded  Stocks. — Those  stocks  which  were  work¬ 
ed  last  year,  upon  which  the  buds  have  “  taken,” 
are  to  be  cut  b.ack  to  within  a  few  inches  of  the  bud, 
leaving  a  support  to  which  to  tie  the  growingshoot. 

Cuttings.— Any  cuttings,  the  planting  of  which 
had  been  delayed,  should  be  put  in  at  once.  See 
article  on  currants  on  page  121,  last  month. 

Hjergreens.— These  are  not  only  valu.able  for 
ornament,  but  of  increasing  importance  as  shelter. 
People  are  beginning  to  learn  that  they  csin,  within 
certain  limits,  modify  their  climate,  .aud  that  they 
can,  by  the  aid  of  a  belt  of  evergreens,  not  only  help 
their  orchards  and  gardens,  but  that  the  protection 
they  afford  is  of  essential  comfort  to  the  inhabi¬ 
tants  of  the  house  and  barn.  May  is  the  month  for 
transplanting.  We  repeat  the  caution  to  protect  the 
roots,  for  if  once  dried,  no  subsequent  wetting  will 
ever  soften  their  resinous  juice.  In  sandy  soils  it 
is  well  to  enrich  the  holes  with  peaty  earth  or  muck. 
With  large  evergreens,  which  are  planted  singly,  it 
is  better  to  anchor  them,  by  me.ans  of  large  stones 
placed  on  the  ground,  than  to  stake  them.  Stones 
placed  in  this  manner,  besides  the  mechanical  sup¬ 
port  they  give  to  the  tree,  are  useful  inasmuch  as 
they  cover  the  ground  and  serve  as  a  mulch.  The 
Hemlock  is  growing  more  into  favor  as  a  hedge 
plant.  The  proper  time  to  remove  this  is  when  the 
new  growth  is  well  started.  The  Hemlock,  Norway 
Spruce,  and  Arbor  Vit®  are  the  three  favorite  ever¬ 
greens  for  hedges  and  screens  ;  they  all  bear  cutting 
to  any  extent,  and  are  perfectly  hardy.  The  Arbor 
Vit®,  when  planted  closely,  will  sometimes  die 
out  and  leave  a  gap  which  is  difficult  to  fill.  Surface 
manuring  is  beneficial  to  established  evergreens. 

Grafting.— This  m.ay  still  be  done  if  the  cions 
have  been  well  kept.  See  previous  numbers  for 
hints  upon  grafting  and  substitutes  for  grafting 
wax.  Root  grafts  should  have  been  put  out  as  soon 
as  the  ground  was  ready.  If  it  has  been  delayed 
until  now,  lose  no  time,  but  get  them  out  at  once. 
Recollect  that  much  of  the  success  depends  upon 
proper  planting.  The  roots  which  have  been  graft¬ 
ed  have  usually  very  few  fibres,  and  it  is  necessary 
to  press  the  soil  closely  around  them. 

Drainage. — Many  orchards,  the  unproductiveness 
of  which  is  ascribed  to  disease,  are  only  troubled 
with  wet  feet,  and  would  be  brought  into  fruitful¬ 
ness  if  drains  were  laid  midway  between  the  rows 
of  trees.  There  need  be  no  fear  of  injuring  the 
roots  in  laying  the  drains.  The  slight  root  prun¬ 
ing  would  be  beneficial  rather  than  otherwise. 

Insects. — All  the  directions  for  destroying  these 
are  summed  up  in  “kill  them.”  When  first  hatched, 
one  of  the  most  destructive,  the  tent  caterpillar,  is 
very  inconspicuous,  but  a  practised  eye  will  detect 
their  small  web,  and  with  one  operation  of  the  hand 
a  whole  colony  m.ay  be  crushed.  Apply  strong  soft 
soap  w'ash  to  the  trunks  if  it  is  not  already  done. 

Layers  of  quince,  grape  vines,  and  of  many  orn¬ 
amental  shrubs  may  now  be  made. 

Mulchmg. — Cover  the  ground  around  newly  plant¬ 
ed  trees  with  some  kind  of  litter,  it  does  not  matter 
much  what  it  is,  provided  it  prevents  evaporation. 
Orchards. — Any  hoed  crop  that  will  leave  the  soil 
In  better  condition  than  it  was  before,  may  be 
planted  in  a  young  orch.ard,  alwjiys  keeping  in  mind 
that  the  cultivation  is  done  for  the  ultimate  beneflt 
of  the  orchard.  Do  not  plant  too  near  the  trees. 

Peach  a7id  Apricot  Trees. — Probe  for  borers  and 
put  a  band  of  tarred  paper  around  the  trank  ne<ar 
the  ground.  Ashes  will  be  found  beneficial. 

Plow  between  nursery  rows  and  keep  weeds  down. 
Seeds. — Sow  if  not  already  done,  in  rich  and  well 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


139 


worked  eoil.  Peach  and  other  pits  buried  last  year 
will  proba-bly  have  started,  and  in  planting  them, 
care  must  be  taken  not  to  break  the  germinating 
plant.  Plant  such  singly.  Seedling  evergreens  and 
most  young  forest  trees  need  shading. 


Kitchen  Garden. — May  is  the  busy 
month  in  the  family  garden  With  the  exception 
of  a  few  very  early  things,  it  is  better  to  wait  till 
the  ground  becomes  warm  before  putting  in  the 
main  crops.  Thorough  preparation  of  the  soil  will 
pay,  even  if  it  is  secured  at  the  expense  of  a  few  days’ 
delay  in  sowing  the  seeds.  In  many  localities  the 
hints  of  the  April  calendar  will  be  timely. 

Asparagus. — Cut  with  care,  taking  care  not  to  in¬ 
jure  the  buds  which  have  not  yet  pushed.  If  there 
is  any  to  send  to  market,  wash  it,  and  put  it  in 
neat  bunches  4  to  6  Inches  in  diameter,  and  tie  with 
a  string  at  each  end,  and  cut  the  but-ends  square. 

.Raws.—Early  Valentine  and  Early  Rachel  are 
among  the  earliest  sorts.  If  early  plantings  have 
been  destroyed  by  frost,  renew  them.  Set  poles 
for  running  kinds,  and  if  danger  of  frost  is  over, 
plant  Limas.  Frames  of  lath,  with  the  laths  run¬ 
ning  lengthwise,  and  two  of  these  set  together  like 
a  steep  roof,  form  a  very  convenient  support  for 
Lima  beans  and  tall  growing  peas. 

Beets. — Sow  early  sorts  and  thin  the  plantings 
already  up.  Try  the  Swiss  Chard  beet  for  greens. 
It  is  the  next  best  thing  to  spinach,  grows  well  in 
hot  weather,  and  yields  all  summer 

Boreeole,  Broccoli,  and  Brussels  Sprouts. — Sow  and 
cultivate  in  the  same  way  as  cabbages. 

Cabbages. — Those  who  live  near  cities,  and  have 
no  hot  beds,  will  find  it  best  to  buy  plants  of  some 
of  the  early  sorts.  Sow  Winningstadt  for  succession 
and  some  of  the  Savoys  and  Drumheads  for  late. 
See  notes  given  last  month.  Set  plants  in  rich  soil 
and  cultivate  well  from  the  beginning. 

Capsicums,  or  Peppers. — When  cool  nights  are 
over,  the  plants  may  be  set  out.  Seed  may  be  sown. 

Carrots. — Sow  if  not  already  done.  As  soon  as 
the  plants  are  up  and  the  position  of  the  rows  can 
be  made  out,  pass  some  kind  of  a  weeding  im¬ 
plement  between  them.  When  large  enough,  thin 
out  the  plants  to  4  or  6  inches  in  the  rows. 

Cauliflowers. — Seeds  may  be  sown  for  the  second 
crop.  Set  out  plants  in  rich  soil.  Hoe  often,  and 
when  growing  rapidly,  give  them  liquid  manure. 

Cfefejv/.— Seed  maybe  sown  as  directed  last  month. 

Cold  Frames. — If  any  plants  remain,  see  that  they 
do  not  suffer  from  lack  of  water.  Remove  the 
Bashes  during  the  day. 

Cress,  or  Peppergi'ass.—So-w  for  succession,  and  if 
troubled  by  insects,  sift  on  ashes  and  plaster. 

Compost. — Begin  a  heap  with  the  earliest  garden 
refuse.  If  there  are  any  damaged  potatoes,  turnips, 
and  the  like,  add  them  to  the  heap,  and  add  ref¬ 
use  animal  and  vegetable  matter  all  summer. 

Corn. — ^Plant  as  soon  as  cool  nights  are  over, 
there  are  so  many  local  varieties  that  we  are  at 
loss  to  say  which  is  the  best  early  sort.  Darling’s 
is  early  and  reliable,  but  Dwarf  Sugar  is  sweetest. 

Cucumbers. — Set  out  plants  which  have  been  start¬ 
ed  under  cover,  and  sow  seed  when  the  ground  is 
•warm.  See  note  on  the  striped  bug  on  page  155. 
If  there  is  likely  to  be  frost  after  the  plants  are  out, 
provide  a  shelter  of  some  kind.  A  newspaper 
will  afford  protection  against  a  quite  hard  frost. 

Egg  Plants. — It  is  best  to  keep  these  under  glass 
until  quite  warm  weather.  If  the  plants  are  grow¬ 
ing  too  large  in  the  hot-bed,  pot  them  or  prick 
them  out  in  a  cold  frame.  Rich  soil  and  thorough 
culture  and  liquid  manure  are  needed. 

Garlic. — Set  as  directed  last  month. 

Herbs. — ^Make  provisions  for  a  good  supply  of 
plants  used  for  seasoning.  See  article  on  page  155. 

Hot-beds. — Plants  often  get  overgro'wn  before  they 
can  be  set  out  with  safety.  Guard  against  this  in 
time  by  transplanting  or  pricking  out  to  a  cold 
frame.  If  no  frame  is  at  hand,  set  them  in  a  rich 
tpot  and  contrive  to  cover  the  plants  at  night.  See 


that  plants  do  not  get  burned  during  the  middle  of 
the  day.  If  the  weather  will  not  allow  of  remov¬ 
ing  the  sash,  lift  it  and  shade  the  glass. 

Insects. — Young  plants  of  cabbages  and  others  of 
the  same  family,  as  well  as  many  others,  are  very 
apt  to  be  attacked  by  insects,  and  have  their  early 
growth  seriously  checked.  A  free  sifting  of  a 
mixture  of  ashes  and  plaster  will  help  protect  them, 
at  the  same  time  it  is  beneficial  as  a  fertilizer. 

Kohl  Rabi. — This  is  grown  in  the  same  manner  as 
cabbages,  and  would  be  more  popular  but  for  the 
reason  that  it  is  generally  allowed  to  get  too  large 
before  it  is  eaten.  When  well  grown  and  taken  at 
the  size  of  a  teacup,  they  are  very  tender  and  de¬ 
licious,  if  boiled  and  dressed  like  turnips. 

Leeks. — Sow  as  directed  last  month. 

Lettuce. — Sow  in  open  ground  and  transplant  from 
hot  bed  or  frame.  Set  the  plants  a  foot  apart  each 
way  in  good  soil  and  hoe  frequently.  The  two  va¬ 
rieties  which  have  proved  best  with  us  were  the 
Ice  Drumhead  and  Butter,  though  there  are  other 
fine  sorts.  The  Boston  Curled  is  a  very  showy  kind. 

Liquid  Manure. — Remarkable  results  in  the  way 
of  vegetables  may  be  obtained,  even  in  poor  soil,  by 
a  free  use  of  liquid  manure.  Save  the  slop  water 
from  the  kitchen,  and  use  it  to  make  an  infusion 
of  any  kind  of  animal  manure. 

Martynia  or  Martinoes. — The  tender  green  pods 
of  these  are  used  for  pickles  and  are  highly  esteem¬ 
ed  by  all  who  have  tried  them.  Sow  in  rich  soil, 
in  hills  three  feet  apart  and  leave  but  one  or  two 
plants  to  a  hill,  as  they  spread  widely. 

Melons. — Treat  as  directed  for  cucumbers.  In  field 
culture  the  hills  are  put  8  feet  apart  and  manured 
in  the  hili.  Put  in  plenty  of  seed  to  guard  against 
accidents.  See  article  on  Striped  bug,  on  page  155. 

Mushrooms. — Prepare  manure  and  start  beds. 

Mustard. — Sow  for  succession. 

Nasturtium  or  Indian  Cress. — Sow  near  a  fence 
and  train  them  up  on  strings,  or  supply  them  with 
brush  to  climb  upon. 

Okra. — Sow  the  tall  kind  in  a  warm  spot,  in  rows 
3  feet  apart,  or  the  dwarf  sort  two  feet  apart.  The 
dwarf  is  best  suited  to  short  seasons. 

Onions. — If  the  sowing  is  not  already  done,  no 
time  should  be  lost.  See  last  month’s  calendar. 

Parsley. — Sow  in  drills  a  foot  apart,  and  soak  the 
seeds  before  sowing  in  ground  free  from  weeds. 

Parsnips. — Be  sure  to  get  fresh  seed.  A  deep 
mellow  soil  is  needed.  Roll  the  bed  after  sow¬ 
ing,  or  tread  the  soil  firmly  over  the  seeds. 

Peas. — Hoe  those  already  up  and  draw  a  little 
earth  to  the  stems,  to  prevent  falling  over.  Pro¬ 
vide  the  tall  sorts  with  brush.  Sow  Champion  of 
England,  or  some  other  of  the  wrinkled  marrow 
sorts  for  late.  Sow  dwarfs  for  succession. 

Potatoes. — Finish  planting  the  early  soi'ts.  Hoe 
and  give  the  hills  a  dressing  of  ashes  and  plaster. 

Radishes. — Sow  at  intervals  of  a  week  or  two ; 
when  the  plants  are  well  up,  give  a  dressing  of  ash¬ 
es.  A  radish  to  be  good  must  be  grown  r.apidly,  and 
an  occassional  watering  of  liquid  manure  will  help. 
If  the  roots  become  infested  with  small  worms, 
destroy  the  crop  at  once. 

Rhubarb. — Plants  may  be  set,  if  they  can  be  had 
not  too  much  advanced.  Established  plants  will 
now  afford  leaves.  Never  cut  the  leaves,  but  re¬ 
move  them  with  a  sidewise  pull.  Do  not  take  any 
leaves  from  plants  set  this  spring  or  last  fall. 

Salsify. — Sow  in  the  same  manner  as  carrots  and 
give  the  same  culture.  To  get  the  best  results,  the 
ground  should  be  deeply  worked  and  manured. 

Seeds. — Roots  aud  bulbs  kept  for  seed  are  to  be 
put  out.  See  article  on  page  117,  last  month. 

Spinach. — That  which  was  protected  last  winter 
should  now  give  an  abundant  supply  Leave  some 
of  the  best  for  seed.  The  staminate  and  pistillate 
flowers  are  on  separate  plants,  and  after  the  seed  is 
set,  the  staminate  or  male  plants  may  be  pulled  up. 
Sow  the  round-leaved  for  succession,  and  hoe,  weed 
and  thin  that  which  is  pp.  The  plants  should  stand 
at  a  distance  qf  ^  qr  6  inches  in  rows  a  fpot  apart. 


Squashes. — The  early  kinds  started  under  glass 
may  be  i)ut  out  and  seed  sown  in  open  ground  in 
well  manured  hills.  The  late  sorts  which  run  and 
root  at  the  joints,  need  a  well  manured  soil.  Keep 
off  the  striped  bug  by  the  use  of  boxes.  A  dusting 
of  plaster  or  air-slacked  lime  will  serve  in  some 
degree  as  a  protection.  After  the  plants  have  made  5 
or  6  le.aves,  they  are  too  strong  to  be  much  injured 
by  the  striped  bug,  but  the  black  squash  bug  must 
be  looked  for  and  killed.  They  are  found  in  the 
morning  on  the  underside  of  the  leaves. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — Sufficient  directions  for  the  cul¬ 
ture  of  them  are  given  on  page  154,  and  an  ap¬ 
proved  method  is  described  in  a  “  Basket”  item. 

Tomatoes. — Sow  seed  for  the  late  crop  in  the  open 
ground.  As  soon  as  cold  night  s  are  over,  set  out 
plants  from  the  frame.  See  article  on  a  convenient 
method  of  training  upon  frames  on  page  154. 

Turnips. — Continue  to  sow  eai'ly  sorts  and  dress 
with  ashes  as  soon  as  up.  Hoe  and  thin,  and  for¬ 
ward  their  growth  as  rapidly  as  possible. 

Watermelons. — Treat  the  same  as  melons.  Sow 
when  the  soil  gets  warmed  and  put  plenty  of  seed 
in  each  hill,  as  much  of  it  fails  to  come  up.  A 
warm,  light  soil,  well  manured,  is  best  for  them. 

Winter  Cherry. — This  is  much  prized  for  pre¬ 
serves,  and  is  grown  in  the  same  way  as  tomatoes. 

Weeds. — The  hoe  or  cultivator  should  be  set  in 
motion  as  soon  as  a  weed  shows  itself.  They  are 
hints  that  the  soil  needs  working. 


Flower  Garden  and  Fawn.— The 

early  spring  has  hurried  the  transplanting  of  trees 
and  shrubs,  and  the  heavier  work  should  be  well 
out  of  the  way.  It  is  well  not  to  be  too  much  in  a 
hurry  with  the  tender  bedding  plants,  and  those 
which  have  been  started  under  glass,  as  a  cold 
night  will  give  them  a  severe  check. 

Annuals. — Sow  the  seed  whenever  the  soil  is  warm, 
and  the  heavy  rains  are  over.  Cold  and  wet  ground 
is  not  favorable  to  the  germination  of  delicate 
seeds.  Some  new  annuals  are  introduced  this  year,  ^ 
for  which  we  refer  to  the  seed  c.atalogues.  The  fol¬ 
lowing  list  gives  some  of  the  most  satisfactory  and 
reliable  annuals  :  Sweet  Alyssum,  Antirrhinum  or 
Snap  Dragon,  Asters,  Clarkias,  Couvoltuilus  minor, 
Dianthus  or  Pink,  of  the  Chinese  and  Heddewigii 
sorts,  Gilias,  Leptosiphons,  Martynias,  Marigolds, 
Mignonette,  Nemophilas,  Pansy,  Phlox  Drum- 
mondii,  Portulaccas,  Petunias,  Stocks,  Tropoeo- 
lums,  dwarf  and  climbing,  Whitiavia,  Double 
Zinnias,  Candytufts,  etc.  It  is  well  not  to  use  all 
the  seed  at  once,  but  to  reserve  a  part  to  be  sown 
later,  to  guard  against  failures,  and  prolong  the 
time  of  blooming. 

Bedding  Plants. — These,  unless  one  has  a  green¬ 
house,  are  usually  obtained  from  the  florists.  The 
leading  ones  are  :  Geraniums,  Verbenas,  Lamtanas, 
Fuchsias,  Salvias,  Ageratum,  Cuphea,  Neircmbergia, 
Gazania,  etc.,  and  many  others  can  be  had  of  the 
dealers,  who  advertise  in  this  sheet. 

Bulbs. — As  these  pass  out  of  flower,  do  not  re¬ 
move  the  leaves,  as  upon  the  nourishment  afforded 
by  the  growth  of  these  depends  the  flowering 
of  next  year.  The  flowers  of  Hyacinths,  Tulips, 
etc.,  may  be  retained  much  longer,  if  they  are 
shaded  during  the  middle  of  the  day. 

Box  Edging. — Propagate  from  cuttings  set  in  a 
shaded  place.  Clip  old  into  shape  and  set  new. 

Carnations. — Set  out  from  the  cold  frame  or 
green-house ;  tie  flower-stalks  to  stakes ;  sow  seeds. 

Climbers. — See  that  the  woody  ones  are  properly 
secured  to  their  supports.  Provide  for  a  supply  of 
the  annual  ones,  by  sowing  the  seeds:  M.aurandias, 
Coboea,  Sweet  Pea,  Canary-bird  Flower,  Morning 
Glories,  and  Cypress  Vines,  are  among  the  well 
known  and  satisfactory  annuals. 

Dahlias. — Set  the  roots  in  a  gentle  hot  bed,  or  a 
cold  frame,  and  cover  with  rich  earth.  Or  if  these 
conveniences  are  wanting,  put  them  in  a  warm 
border,  and  cover  them  at  night.  Remove  and  pot 
the  shoots  from  those  already  started. 

Dicentra. — Every  garden  should  have  a  clump  of 
this.  It  is  the  most  beautiful  of  our  herbaccouf 


140 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[May, 


perennials,  pcrfectlj'  hardy  and  easily  propagated  by 
dividing  the  roots. 

Evergreens.— V\mi  those  of  the  pine  family,  as  di¬ 
rected  under  notes  for  orchard  and  nursery. 

Frames  and  Fiis.—U  any  plants  remain,  do  not 
let  them  suffer  from  heat  and  dryuess. 

Fuchsias. — These  make  good  border  plants,  if 
not  exposed  to  too  much  sun.  Tie  them  to  slakes. 

Geraniums.— K  the  plants  have  been  properly 
hardened  off,  these  may  be  set  out.  A  fine  effect 
is  produced  by  making  a  raised  bed  in  the  lawn, 
and  putting  a  row  of  the  variegated  leaved  ones 
around  the  margin,  and  filling  the  center  with  the 
dark  leaved  sorts,  planted  rather  c.osel”. 

Cannas. — These  are  fine  plants  for  a  mouc  '  upon 
a  lawn.  Seeds  may  be  started  in  boat,  or  roots 
may  be  had  of  the  florists  at  a  moderate  price. 

Glacliolns.—Sct  the  bulbs  about  a  foot  apart,  and 
two  inches  deep.  Tie  the  flower  stems  to  stakes. 

Gra.ss  Edgings. — Clip  as  soon  as  the  grass  is  long 
enough  to  cut,  uproot  all  coarse  weeds,  and 
keep  the  margins  neatly  trimmed. 

Oravel  Wallis. — Keep  free  of  weeds,  and  roll  often. 

Japan  Lilies. — Those  most  beautiful  and  hardy 
lilies  are  now  cheap  enough  to  be  in  every  garden. 
Set  the  bulbs  early. 

Labels. — Have  a  supply  to  mark  sowings  of  seeds, 
and  all  other  things,  where  it  is  desirable  to  record 
the.  names  of  varieties.  A  smooth  pine  stick 
smeared  with  a  little  white  paint,  and  written  with 
a  pencil  before  it  dries,  makes  a  very  good  label 
which  lasts  well  enough  for  a  single  season. 

Lawns. — Mow  evenly,  as  soon  as  the  grass  is  long 
enough  to  cut.  Where  the  lawn  is  of  much  ex¬ 
tent,  it  will  pay  to  get  a  machine  for  the  purpose. 

Mulch. — Give  a  covering  of  some  kind  of  litter 
around  newly  planted  treesand  shrubs.  The  mo.w- 
ings  of  the  lawn  may  be  used  for  this  purpose. 

Mignonette. — Sow  where  it  is  to  grow,  as  it  does 
not  transplant  easily.  It  mixes  well  with  candytuft. 

FeUmias. — Sow  seed,  and  get  plants  of  the  finer 
sorts  from  the  florists. 

Roses. — Turn  those  in  pots  into  the  border. 
Keep  the  climbers  well  tied  up.  Remove  layers 
made  last  year.  If  slugs  appear,  give  them  a 
syringing  with  solution  of  whale  oil  soap. 

Tuberoses. — Plant  the  bulbs  in  rich  soil.  It  is 
better  to  get  those  which  have  been  started  iu  pots, 
as  they  are  more  sure  to  bloom  before  frost. 

Verbenas. — These  give  the  best  effect  of  color 
when  planted  rather  closely  in  masses. 

Weeds. — Keep  them  out  of  the  borders  and  from 
beneath  shrubs  by  free  use  of  the  hoe,  and  rake. 

CSi'cesi  asacl  Ilot-SIoiises. — This  month 
tlie  houses  are  usually  emptied  of  all  but  the  most 
tender  plants.  The  time  for  bringing  them  out  will 
be  fixed  by  the  warmth  of  the  weather.  Give  the 
house  free  ventilation  to  harden  the  plants  and 
prepare  them  for  the  cliange.  Roses,  verbenas, 
geraniums  and  other  hardier  border  plants  are  the 
first  to  be  removed.  Those  which  are  to  remain  in 
pots,  are  to  be  placed  where  they  will  be  sheltered 
from  high  winds.  The  tropical  plants  which  re¬ 
main  in  the  hot  house,  will  need  a  little  fire  heat 
and  should  have  all  the  ventilation  possible,  with¬ 
out  too  much  reducing  the  temperature. 

Cactuses. — These  make  a  flue  show  iu  the  border 
or  upon  a  rock  work.  Plunge  the  pots  in  earth  up 
to  their  rims.  Make  cuttings,  allowing  them  to 
dry  a  few  weeks  before  potting. 

CameZna.?.— Syringe  freely.  When  placed  out  of 
doors  they  should  have  partial  shade.  Some  florists 
make  a  large  arbor  of  lattice  work 'for  them. 

Cuttings. — Provide  for  next  winter’s  stock  of  plants 
by  making  cuttings.  Many  things  difficult  to  strike 
from  hard  wood  do  so  readily  from  the  newly  form¬ 
ed  growth  Ordinarily  they  are  struck  In  damp 
Baud  ill  partial  sliade,  and  the  air  around  them  kept 
close  by  a  bell-glass.  The  plan  of  putting  them  in 
Band  kept  very  wet,  and  exposing  them  to  full  sun¬ 
light  is  very  successful,  and  it  is  easily  done. 


Fuchsias. — Turn  out  the  hardy  sorts  into  the 
borders  and  make  cuttings  of  the  new  growth. 

Insects. — It  will  not  do  to  allow  the  press  of  out¬ 
door  work  to  cause  any  relaxation  of  the  war  against 
insects.  Syringe  frequently  and  use  sulphur  and 
tob.acco  fumigations. 

Oranges  and  Lemons. — Give  the  stems  a  brushing 
of  strong  solution  of  soft  soap  to  remove  the  scale 
before  they  go  out  of  doors. 

Pelargonmrm. — Cut  back  into  good  shape  before 
they  are  put  into  the  borders  and  use  tlie  prunings 
for  cuttings  to  make  plants  for  winter. 

Water. — The  house  should  be  syringed  frequently 
and  the  plants  ought  not  to  suffer  for  water. 


Frsait  Garden. —Whatever  planting  has 
been  delayed,  should  be  done  as  soon  as  possible, 
as  the  season  is  already  quite  advanced. 

Blackberries. — Tie  up  to  stakes  or  trellises.  Cut 
back  to  near  the  root  any  plants  to  be  set  out. 

Currants. — These  may  be  removed  with  safety 
even  after  the  buds  have  started.  Set  out  cuttings. 
Cultivate  around  established  bushes.  Watch  for 
and  destroy’  the  currant  worm. 

Grapes. — If  the  vines  were 'taken  up  in  season 
and  have  been  kept  in  a  cool  place,  they  may  still 
be  planted.  Directions  for  planting  were  given 
last  month  on  page  120.  Set  out  cuttings  of  those 
kinds  which  can  be  propagated  without  heat.  Put 
up  vines  to  the  trellis,  and  if  the  buds  have  push¬ 
ed,  use  great  care  in  handling.  Keep  the  new 
growth  of  young  or  old  vines  carefully  tied  up  to 
the  trellis  or  stakes,  using  some  soft  string.  Bass, 
old  yarn  or  rye  straw  are  used  for  tying.  See  note 
on  mildew  on  page  115. 

Insects. — The  rose  bug  is  one  of  the  great  pests 
of  the  fruit  grower.  When  grapes  are  in  flower 
they  do  much  injury.  Hand  picking  is  the  only 
remedy.  See  note  in  Basket  on  currant  worm. 

Layering. — In  propagating  grapes  in  this  manner, 
prepare  a  trench  about  6  inches  deep,  and  put  the 
branch  to  be  layered  in  it  and  fasten  it  there.  The 
branch  should  have  been  shortened  at  pruning  time 
to  about  6  feet.  When  the  shoots  have  made  a 
growth  of  3  or  4  inches,  remove  all  but  the  strong¬ 
est,  leaving  them  about  a  foot  apart,  and  put  a  stake 
6  or  8  feet  high  to  each.  When  the  shoots  have 
made  a  growth  of  .about  a  foot,  tie  them  to  stakes, 
and  continue  to  tie  them  as  they  grow.  Now 
cover  the  layered  vine  In  the  trench  with  about  an 
inch  of  soil  and  at  the  Interval  of  a  week  or  so,  add 
another  inch  and  so  an  until  the  trench  is  filled. 

Raspberries. — Manure  the  vines  if  it  has  not  been 
done, cut  out  weak  canes  and  tie  the  others  to  stakes. 

Strawberries. — Finish  planting  of  beds.  Remove 
the  runners  from  those  cultivated  in  hills.  Pull 
out  the  weeds  that  come  up  through  the  mulch, 
and  if  there  is  no  mulch,  keep  the  plants  well  hoed. 

Water. — If  a  dry  spell  occurs,  ivater  newly  plant¬ 
ed  trees  and  shrubs  and  mulch  them.  Strawberries, 
as  they  are  swelling  their  fruit,  will  need  watering. 

Weeds. — Use  the  hoe  freely  to  keep  weeds  out  of 
sight,  and  stir  the  soil  around  the  plants. 


Cold  Grapery. — Last  month’s  calendar 
gave  the  treatment  of  the  vines  after  uncovering 
them.  The  vines  may  be  forced  or  retarded,  ac¬ 
cording  to  the  season  and  climate.  Where  late 
frosts  occur,  keep  the  house  cool,  as  it  is  not  desira¬ 
ble  to  start  the  growth  until  it  can  be  pushed  with¬ 
out  interruption.  Keep  the  air  moist  by  syringing 
over  the  vines  every  mild  morning,  and  sprinkling 
the  floor  every  morning.  The  manure  placed  on 
the  outside  borders  last  fall  is  to  be  forked  in,  or 
if  it  was  neglected,  fork  over  the  bed  and  give  a 
dressing  of  manure.  When  danger  of  frosts  is 
over,  the  temperature  of  the  house  may  be  gradu¬ 
ally  increased  until  it  reaches  85°  at  mid-day,  open¬ 
ing  only  the  upper  ventilators.  When  the  shoots 
have  sufficiently  advanced  to  show  their  character, 
select  the  best  for  fruiting  and  for  next  year’s 
wood,  rubbing  out  all  the  others.  The  shoots  are 
very  tender  and  great  care  must  be  exercised  in 
handling  the  vines. 


Tlse  Apiary  for  May. — Prepared  by  M. 
Quinby  by  request. — The  prospect  of  early  swarms 
was  never  better  than  this  season,  where  the  weath¬ 
er  has  been  uniform  during  the  winter  and  the 
ground  well  covered  with  snow.  So  little  of  the 
clover  has  been  winter-killed,  that  the  flowers  will 
appear  several  days  earlier,  and  there  will  be  little 
interval  between  fruit  and  clover  blossoms.  Swarms 
may  be  expected  as  early  as  the  last  of  the  month 
where  this  state  of  things  obtains.  Should  the  sup¬ 
ply  of  honey  from  fruit  blossoms  be  scant  through 
■wet  and  cold  weather,  inferior  stocks  with  little 
honey  may  overtake  and  throw  out  swarms  before 
those  which  had  a  full  supply ;  they  having  econ¬ 
omised  their  stores,  while  the  strong  stocks  con¬ 
sumed  their  honey  by  raising  drones.  If  then  there 
should  occur  a  dearth  of  honey,  the  drones  may  be 
killed  to  save  the  rest,  and  where  this  occurs  in  any 
hive,  swarming  is  indefinitely  postponed — but  it  by 
no  means  follows  that  any  such  droneless  colony 
will  not  swarm  at  all.  Should  swarms  issue  just 
previous  to  a  period  of  wet  and  cold,  they  should 
be  fed,  and  it  will  be  -well  also  to  have  a  care  that 
light  hives  do  not  suffer  for  a  lack  of  honey  when 
a  few  days  feeding  will  keep  them  in  good  condi- 
tion.  Few  swarms  may  be  looked  for  before  white 
clover  is  in  full  blossom. 

Before  a  swarm  can  be  reasonably  expected  we 
usually  observe  an  increase  of  bees,  both  of  work¬ 
ers  and  drones.  The  colony  makes  preparation  to 
provide  a  queen  to  take  the  place  of  the  one  which 
%vill  leave  with  the  swarm,  and  builds  queen  cells. 
These  may  be  seen  usually  witiiout  difficulty  by 
blowing  in  a  little  smoke,  invrrting  the  hive  and 
examining  the  edges  of  the  combs.  When  a  queen 
cell  is  discovered  sealed  up,  a  swarm  may  he  looked 
for  at  once,  and  will  be  very  likely  to  occur  the  first 
bright  day.  There  are  usually  several  queen  cells 
started  as  swarming  time  approaches,  and  should 
one  or  more  be  found  nearly  closed,  it  is  fair  to  in¬ 
fer  that  there  may  be  others  quite  sealed.  Swarms 
usually  issue  between  10  and  3  o’clock.  Italians, 
however,  may  be  expected  both  earlier  and  later, 
but  never  before  the  bees  get  well  engaged  at  their 
day’s  work.  W'heu  the  queen  leaves  she  takes  with 
her  almost  all  the  bees  that  are  left  in  the  hive, 
except  the  very  young  ones,  trusting  to  the  absent 
ones  to  maintain  the  old  colony.  The  bees  depart 
loaded  with  as  much  honey  as  each  can  fly  with. 
The  swarm  usually  settles  on  some  tree  or  bush 
not  far  from  the  hive,  where  they  will  stay  usually  | 
more  than  an  hour  (sometimes  more  than  24  hours), 
though  iu  case  the  sun  comes  to  shine  very  full 
upon  them  they  may  move  very  soon.  The  noise  j 
of  tin  pans  and  bells  does  no  good  whatever  in  in-  ( 
ducing  the  swarm  to  alight,  though  should  a  swarm  j 
move  to  fly  away  from  its  first  settling  place,  the  i 
throwing  of  dirt  into  it  often  apparently  confuses 
the  beos,  so  as  to  induce  them  to  settle  again  at  ' 
once.  Paint  no  hives  at  this  season.  A  hive  should 
contain  about  2000  cubic  inches  of  clear  comb  space, 
(this  is  the  entire  space  in  a  box  hive,  but  iu  a 
movable  comb  hive  it  includes  only  the  space  inside 
the  frames,)  and  should  be  scrupulously  clean  and 
sweet,  or  the  bees  may  not  stay  when  hived,  and 
moreover,  it  ought  to  be  cool  when  the  bees  are 
put  into  it.  It  is  immaterial  how  the  bees  get  into 
the  hive  provided  they  are  put  in  or  induced  to  go. 
They  may  be  jarred  into  a  bag  held  under  them,  or  | 
into  the  hive,  or  any  box,  or  the  branch  may  be  cut 
off  and  the  bees  laid  upon  a  sheet  on  which  the  \ 
hive  is  placed,  into  which  they  may  be  directed  by 
the  bauds.  They  are  so  full  of  honey  that  they  can 
hardly  sting  if  they  would  (except  the  Italians). 
Blauagc  to  get  every  small  cluster  outside  the  hive 
to  go  iu  by  some  means,  lest  the  queen  be  left  out, 
and  subsequently  depart  with  the  swarm.  When 
the  swarm  is  hived,  place  it  on  its  stand  and  keep  it 
shaded;  in  fact  all  hives  ought  to  be  roofed  or 
protected  from  the  sun  in  some  wa}'. 

It  is  seldom  worth  while  to  put  on  surplus  boxes 
till  dandelions  are  out  of  bloom,  as  tlie  honey  stored 
at  this  time  is  of  poor  color,  if  not  bad  flavor,  yet  it 
is  well  to  put  on  a  single  box  to  give  the  bees  a  I 
place  to  work.  Immediately  after, — certainly  as 
soon  as  white  clover  begins  to  bloom  generally, — 
put  on  as  many  boxes  as  the  bees  will  work  in. 


1805.] 


AMERICAN’  AGRTCTJT.TURIST 


141 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


I>elayed. — This  number  is  issued  later  than 
usual.  Just  as  we  were  preparing  to  go  to  press,  the 
aew's  of  the  terrible  assassination  came  to  hand,  and  as  a 
mark  of  respect,  business  was  nearly  suspended  for  more 
than  a  week  in  this  City.  Even  had  we  notconsultedour 
own  feelings,  the  delay  would  have  been  unavoidable. 

Am  Usamsmal  Variety  and  amount  of  im¬ 
portant  business  items  are  found  in  our  advertising  col¬ 
umns.  which  will  well  repay  examination  by  all  readers. 

Annual  Fair  of  Slae  N.  Y.  SIteei»- 
Breeders’  Association.— This  first  Fair  of  the 
society  is  announced  for  the  9lh,  10th,  and  llth  of  May, 
at  Canandaigua,  N.  Y.  Liberal  prizes  are  offered  in 
five  classes,  for  I.  American  Merinos;  II.  Fine  Merinos; 
III.  Delaine  Merinos;  IV.  Long-Wools;  and  V.  Middle- 
Wools.  We  hope  our  Eastern  mutton  sheep-breeders 
will  be  present  in  force  (as  it  will  be  to  their  advantage), 
that  the  Merinos  may  be  convinced  that  Southdowns, 
Cheviots,  Oxfords,  Cotswolds,  Leicesters,  etc.,  still  live 
and  are  worthy  of  consideration.  D.  D.  T.  Moore,  of 
the  Rural  New-Yorker,  offers  a  prize  of  $5P  for  the 
heaviest  fleece  sheared  and  cleajised  on  the  ground,  the 
age  of  the  fleece,  which  must  be  of  about  one  year’s 
growth,  and  the  weight  of  tne  animal,  both  being  taken 
into  consideration.  A  very  important  premium. 

I>owniBiR-’s  Landscape  <«ardemimg'. 

— We  are  gratified  to  be  able  to  announce  that  the  prom¬ 
ised  new  edition  of  this  work  is  at  length  ready.  The 
delay  has  been  occasioned  by  the  necessity  for  re-engrav¬ 
ing  the  greater  part  of  the  illustrations.  The  work  upon 
its  first  appearance,  immediately  took  rank  as  the  stand¬ 
ard  work  on  the  subject  upon  which  it  treats,  it  has 
that  happy  blending  of  pleasant  writing  with  practical 
hints  that  characterize  its  author’s  productions,  and  its 
reissue  will  be  welcomed  by  all  interested  in  rural 
affairs.  Its  illustrations,  by  Steel  plate.  Lithograph,  and 
Wood-cut,  are  numerous,  and  the  work  will  be  an  orna¬ 
ment  to  the  table  or  Library  of  every  possessor.  The 
binding  is  superior  to  the  previous  edition.  Price  $6  50. 
-Sent  by  mail,  post-paid,  at  this  price. 

Vimclaiid.— To  several  inquirers.  The  “Novel 
Enterprise”  published  last  month,  was  not  an  “editorial” 
irticle,  but  simply  an  advertisement,  as  we  supposed  all 
■•ould  understand  from  its  position  in  the  paper.  We 
neither  endorsed  nor  condemned  it.  As  stated  elsewhere 
In  the  same  paper  we  do  not  scrutinize  farm  or  land  ad¬ 
vertisements  very  closely,  because  no  man  would  be  fool¬ 
ish  enough  to  buy  a  farm  without  seeing  it  for  himself. 
“Vineland”  has  some  good  features  doubtless,  but  we 
are  not  prepared  from  personal  knowledge  to  endorse 
or  condemn  it.  (See  Agriculturist,  for  May  1863,  p.  153). 
We  intended  to  return  that  way  last  year,  for  a  thorough 
personal  examination,  but  were  prevented  by  illness. 

VTnfair— I*rice  ©f  AgTicielttiral  Im¬ 
plements.— It  strikes  us  that  the  prices  of  farm  im¬ 
plements,  are  very  high  when  we  first  hear  them,  and  in 
fact  they  are  when  counted  in  dollars  :  but  we  urge  farm¬ 
ers  not  to  refrain  from  purchasing,  with  the  expectation 
that  they  will  be  lower.  Let  us  consider  rather,  the 
prices  we  have,  as  a  class,  been  getting  for  what  we  have 
had  to  sell,  and  how  easily  we  have  earned  the  green¬ 
backs  which  we  must  now  pay  out.  Compare  the  prices 
of  all  these  things,  and  of  books  and  agricultural  papers 
too,  with  the  prices  which  corn,  wheat,  beef,  butter,  poul¬ 
try,  etc.,  have  been  selling  for  all  winter,  and  the  prices 
which  are  likely  to  prevail,  at  least  if  the  hopes  of  the 
farmers  are  realized.  No  man  now-a-days  can  afford  to 
use  poor  implements.  It  is  unfair  to  apply  a  measure  to 
others’ prices,  with  which  we  will  not  measure  our  gains. 

Blood  and  Bone  Si»avin  are  very  dif¬ 
ferent  pathological  conditions  of  the  hock  Joint ;  the 
former  is  a  distension  of  the  membranous  sack  which 
surrounds  and  connects  the  bones  forming  the  hock  joint, 
occasioned  by  an  excessive  accumulation  of  the  fluid 
(Synovia),  by  which  the  joint  is  lubricated.  It  takes  its 
name  Blood  Spavin,  because  a  large  vein  passes  over 
the  sack  on  the  inside  of  the  hock  ;  the  vein  has  nothing 
to  do  in  producing  the  disease,  but  it  sometimes  suffers 
and  becomes  enlarged  by  pressure  from  the  sack.  The 
treatment  for  Blood  or  Bog  Spavin,  as  it  is  also  some¬ 
times  called,  is  to  allay  acute  inflammation  by  cooling 
•pplicatiouA.  If  this  fails,  stimulating  liniments,  and 


the  various  compounds  of  iodine,  with  continued  pres¬ 
sure,  may  succeed.  The  disease  is,  however,  apt  to  re¬ 
turn.  Hone  Spavin  is  caused  by  an  inflammatory  condi¬ 
tion  of  the  periosteum,  bones,  and  ligaments  of  the  hock 
joint,  producing  more  or  less  disorganization,  and  gener¬ 
ally  terminating  in  a  union  of  the  bones,  and  an  enlarge¬ 
ment  of  bone.  It  is  generally  caused  by  violence  and 
over-exertion.  The  treatment  is,  in  the  early  stages,  to 
check  inflammation,  by  cooling  appliances  to  the  joint, 
and  oy  rest ;  this  failing,  repeated  blisters,  followed  by 
an  ointment  of  the  hiniodide  of  mercury,  and  other  com¬ 
pounds  of  iodine,  and,  as  a  last  resort,  the  actual  cautery. 
We  are  led  to  this  discussion  of  Spavin  by  the  receipt  ot 
a  recipe  for  its  cure,  sent  by  Harriet  Garloclt,  w  ith  an 
interesting  account  of  her  horse  and  her  management. 
She  will  observe  from  the  above,  that  the  apothecary  ad¬ 
vised  judiciously  when  he  recommended  the  iodine.  He 
can  also  supply,  when  you  again  require  it,  as  you  prob¬ 
ably  will,  a  much  safer  and  better  blister  than  the  one 
you  have  named,  if  you  ask  for  the  Ointment  of  Can- 
tharides.  If  this  be  found  too  hard  for  application,  add 
a  little  sweet  oil.  The  swelling  left  after  the  acute  in¬ 
flammation  subsided  in  your  horse,  was  fibro-plastic 
matter.  The  iodine  assisted  nature  in  its  absorption. 

Wliat  Ailed  ilSy  Iloi-se  ?  —  Geo.  Lusk 

describes  minutely  the  disease  by  which  his  horse  died. 
It  was  characterized  by  dullness,  stiffness,  and  swellings 
of  the  legs,  formation  of  pus  in  the  neck,  ulcers  on  the 
body — up  to  which  time  his  appetite  was  quite  good. 
After  some  time  this  changed,  and  he  ate  little  or  nothing 
— labored  heavily  in  breathing,  and  shortly  after  died. 
A  gentleman,  on  whose  veterinary  knowledge  we  place 
great  reliance,  says  of  that  case  ;  “  After  a  careful  «on- 
sideration  of  the  case  described  by  your  correspondent, 
I  consider  it  an  analogous  type  to  these  diseases  known 
as  glanders  and  farcy.  These  diseases,  spoken  of  as 
separate,  are  really  one  and  the  same.  The  disease  may 
remain  in  a  latent  state  for  some  time,  but  little  affecting 
the  animal,  until  excited  into  an  active  condition  by  some 
unknown  influences.  The  tr  eatment  must  be  stiengthen- 
ing— not  depletive.  Tonics  and  diffusible  stimulants, 
witli  generous  and  nutritive  diet.  Such  cases  are  gener¬ 
ally  ftital,  and  are  also  dangerous  to  man.  In  all 
suspected  cases  of  glanders,  the  animal  ought  to  be  iso¬ 
lated,  and.  if  the  suspicions  are  confirmed,  destroyed.” 

Animal  Fliotograplis. — There  are  many 
difficulties  in  photographing  airimals  so  that  a  correct  and 
agr  eeable  likeness  can  be  obtained.  We  all  want  to  see 
the  good  points,  and  are  only  too  willing  to  have  faults, 
though  characteristic,  extenuated,  even  out  of  sight.  The 
result  of  this  is  that  animal  portrait  painters  have  pand¬ 
ered  to  the  wishes  01  (wners  till  the  public  is  in  a  mea¬ 
sure  satisfieil  with  littie  headed,  big  square  bodied,  slim 
shanked  diminutive  hoofed  car  icatures  of  horses,  cattle 
and  sheep,  which  are  absolutely  hideous  to  anybody  who 
knows  not  what  points  a  breeder  values,  and  to  what  he 
would  be  happy  to  have  his  stock  approximate,  but  who 
only  knows  animals  as  the  creator  made  them.  The 
photographer  of  animats  labors  with  many  difficulties. 
They  do  not  stand  still  long.  It  his  hard  to  give  them 
pleasing  and  natural  backgrounds,  to  make  them  assrrme 
agreeable,  spirited  attitudes,  and  especially  difficult  to 
place  them  in  such  lights,  that  their  best  points  will  come 
out.  Gr  eat  success  in  this  way  has  been  attained  by 
Ridgeway  Glover,  of  Philadelphia,  whose  card  is  in  our 
advertising  pages.  He  has  made  the  subject  one  of 
especial  study,  and  specimens  of  his  wor  k  in  our  office 
wiil  go  far  towards  convincing  breeders  of  improved 
stock  that  sun-light  well  managed  will  almost  “  flatter.” 

Carrots. — Sow  so  as  to  Mow  the  Tops. — 
Lyman  Harrington,  of  Bennington  Co.,  Vt.,  writes  to 
the  Agriculturist :  “  Many  who  r  aise  carr  ots  errt  the  tops 
off  with  a  knife,  which  takes  much  time.  To  avoid 
this,  the  grorrnd  should  be  made  very  smooth  when 
sown,  and  kept  so,  and  no  stones  left  on  it.  When  ready 
to  dig,  let  a  good  mower  cut  one  swath  (say  4  to  6  rows), 
rake  off  the  lops,  bearing  heavily  on  the  rake.  All  r  e¬ 
maining  uncut  will  be  drawn,  or  leaned,  one  way.  Then 
‘having  his  scythe  very  sharp,  he  can  easily  errt  what  re¬ 
mains,  by  sliding  the  point  of  the  scythe  close  to  the 
ground  by  the  side  of  each  row.  A  skillful  man,  used  to 
it,  can  cut  and  dig  from  50  to  100  bushels  per  ilay.  I  have 
practised  it  for  many  years,  with  much  saving  of  time.” 

Should  nicadows  be  Pastured  ? — 

The  temptation  to  a  farmer  to  turn  his  stock  into  his 
meadows  both  in  fall  and  spring  is  great.  But  is  it  not  a 
mistaken  policy?  If  the  grass  could  be  allowed  to  grow 
after  haying  time  until  winter,  and  then  lie  and  protect 
its  own  roots  in  winter,  and,  at  the  same  time,  slowly 
rot,  the  annual  crop  of  hay  would  be  much  incr  eased. 
If  the  regular  pastures  give  out.  provide  some  fresh  cut 
feed  for  the  stock.  The  best  thing  for  spring  feed  is 
roots  ;  for  summer  and  fall,  corn  sown  broadcast  at  in¬ 


tervals  through  the  summer,  and  errt  up  gr  een,  as  wanted. 
Sow  a  qrrarter’,  or  half  an  acre  at  a  time,  at  intervals  of 
ten  days  or  a  fortnight.  Grass  lands  so  favored,  would 
require  less  top-dressing,  and  less  fr'eqrrent  plowing  and 
re-seeding,  and  the  hay  cr  op  would  be  largely  augmented. 

The  Early  Shaw  Potato. — Mr.  J.  W. 
Helme,  of  Lenawee  Co.,  Mich.,  furnishes  us  with  the 
history  of  this  valuable  early  variety.  It  is  a  seedling  of 
the  Mercer,  and  was  raised  by  Mr.  Bradly  Shaw,  of  the 
township  of  Dover  rn  Lenawee  Co.  According  to  .Mr. 
IL,  it  yields  eqrral  to  the  Peach  Blow,  if  gr'own  in  rich 
soil,  and  is  prefer  red  by  him  both  for  quality  atrd  yield 
to  any  variety  with  which  Ire  is  acqrrainted. 

Tlse  Eurraut  Woi-Bsi. — Mr.  Otis  Bigelow, 
of  Onondaga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  gives  the  following  account  of 
the  appearance  of  this  pest,  and  tire  manner  of  combating 
it.  It  is  likely  that  this  scour  ge  will  increase  the  area  of 
its  desolation  each  year,  and  all  growers  of  currants 
should  be  on  the  lookorrt  for  its  first  appearance.  “  About 
three  year’s  since,  people  in  this  vicinity  were  surpr’ised 
to  find  their  currant  and  gooseberry  bushes  suddenly  de- 
pr’ived  of  their  leaves.  On  examination  we  fotrnd  the 
bushes  covered  with  a  myriad  of  green  worms,  speckled 
with  black  spots  on  the  back  and  sides,  and  aborrt  %  of 
an  inch  long  when  full  grown.  As  soon  as  the  leaves 
start  in  the  Spring,  a  fly  appears  and  lays  its  eggs  along 
the  stems  on  the  under  side  of  the  leaf,  or  some  of  the 
leaves  in  the  middle  of  the  bush  ;  these  soon  hatch  and 
devour  all  the  leaves  clean,  for  about  a  week,  when  they 
change  their  skins  to  a  pale  green,  and  falling  to  the 
gr’ouna  disappea..  By  sifting  the  earth  trnder  the  bushes, 
they  will  be  found  enclosed  in  little  balls  of  it.  In  three 
weeks  they  come  out  as  flies;  the  size  of  a  common  fly, 
which  they  nearly  resemble,  excepting  that  they  ar’e  more 
slim  and  have  a  yellow  abdomen.  The  reproduction 
of  these  worms  is  continued  until  all  the  leaves  are  de¬ 
stroyed.— Remedy. — Dig  rtp  all  the  bushes  that  cannot  be 
personally  attended,  and  trim  the  remainder  so  as  to 
leave  them  open  and  accessible.  Visit  them  at  least  once 
every  day.  Look  for  leavc.v  with  little  holes  in  them. 
The  litlle  holes  indicate  the  presence  of  the  newly 
hatched  worms,  which  are  not  seen  unless  the  leaf  is 
turned  up,  as  they  always  begin  on  the  under  side.  By 
destr’oying  four  or  five  leaves  on  each  bush  per  day  the 
whole  may  be  saved,  as  only  a  few  leaves  are  selected 
by  the  fly  to  deposit  her  eggs.  The  worms  never  touch 
the  fruit,  and  the  stripping  of  the  leaves  does  not  prevent 
a  new  growth  the  same  seasorr,  but  these  will  no  sooirer 
appear  than  they  are  destroyed.  ’ 

A  ®reat  B*OMll?*y  Slaow. — Mi’.  Bai’num 
(of  the  Museum)  announce'  a  great  Poultry,  Pigeon, 
and  Rabbit  Show  to  t.akc  ruace  at  the  Museum  the  last  of 
April.  We  go  to  pr  ess  too  early  to  do  mor  e  than  slate 
the  fact.  Liber  al  prizes  are  offered,  under  the  auspices 
of  the  “National  Poultry  Society.” 


A  Free  Adveflisement. — M.any  of  ou. 
subscribers  may  receive  circulars  from  the  parties 
named  below,  who  are  doing  a  large  business  appar¬ 
ently,  judging  from  the  great  number  of  documents  they 
send  out  through  the  mails.  Those  who  p’dtronize  them 
may  be  sure  of  not  getting  their  money’s  worth.  Ther  e¬ 
fore,  bew’aie  of  Kendrick,  Harmon  &  Co.,  P.  Hoffman 
&  Co.,  J.  M.  Pei’cival,  Thomas  Boult  <fc  Co.,  Hammett 
&  Co.,  Fletcher  Biotheis,  Fletcher  &  Co.,  Ego’ton 
Brothers — all  professed  lottery  dealers.  Most  -’if  these 
promise  that,  if  the  fii’st  package  of  tickets  i.s  not  sue 
cessful,  they  will  send  another  package  in  their  lotteries 
for  nothing.  No  doubt  of  it ;  a  ticket  in  a  lottery  for 
nothing  would  be  as  valuable  as  most  of  them  are. 
Look  out  also  for  the  following  dealers  in  “  Jeweli’y,” 
on  the  prize,  or  “  grab’’  system  :  Marriott  &  Co.,  King- 
horn  &  Co.,  McConnell  &  Co.,  A.  P.  Coburn,  etc.,  etc., 
and  all  who  promise  to  give  mor’e  than  a  dollar’s  worth 
of  any  commodity  for  a  hundred  cents. 

Tlie  Arctic  Freasn  Freezer. — By  re¬ 
quest,  Mr.  Torrey  brorrght  in  one  of  these,  at  the  close  of 
the  Fruit  Growers’  meeting,  April  12th,  and  before  a 
large  company,  r’epeatedly  demonstrated  its  ability  to 
reduce  cream  of  or  dinary  temperature  to  a  fr  ozen  state 
in  less  than  four  minirtes.  The  society  unanimously 
testified  by  a  formal  resolution  to  the  smoothness  riml  ex¬ 
cellence  of  the  cream,  and  the  efficacy  of  the  Freezer. 
For  particulars  see  advertisement  in  this  number. 

Good  Music.— Messi’s.  O.  Ditson  &  Co.,  who 
advertise  r  egularly  in  the  Agriculturist,  r  ightly  enjoy  the 
reputation  of  sending  oirt  first  class  music  of  every  de¬ 
scription.  Some  of  the  most  poprtlar  songs  and  melodies, 
have  emanated  from  their  establishment,  and  our  musical 
readers  who  patr  onize  them  may  rely  on  havirrg  their 
orders  by  maU  promptly  and  satisfoctor  ily  filled. 


143 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Mat, 


Kemedy  for  Kiclcing'  Cows. — Cows 
t«Uom  kick  witliout  some  good  reason  for  it.  Teats  are 
sometimes  chapped  or  the  udder  tender,  harsh  handling 
hurts  them,  and  they  kick.  Sometimes  long  and  sharp 
finger  nails  cut  their  teats,  and  sometimes  the  milker 
pulls  the  long  hairs  on  the  udder,  while  milking.  Shear 
off  the  long  hairs,  cut  long  linger  nails  close,  bathe 
chapped  teats  with  warm  water,  and  grease  them  well 
with  lard,  and  always  treat  a  cow  gently.  She  will  never 
kick  unless  something  hurts  her,  or  she  fears  a  repetition 
of  former  hurts.  When  handled  gently,  cows  like  to  be 
milked.  When  treated  otherwise,  they  will  kick  and 
hold  up  their  milk.  It  is  quite  as  consistent  to  whip  a 
sick  child  to  stop  its  crying,  as  to  whip  or  kick  a  cow,  to 
prevent  her  kicking  while  being  milked. 

Cure  fbr  Lice  on  Stock. — 1.  Wash  thor¬ 
oughly  with  strong  soap  suds.  2,  Wet  every  part  of  the 
animal  with  a  strong  solution  of  alum  in  water,  well 
sopped  in.  3.  Take  of  mercurial  ointment  ( Unguentum 
Hydrargyri)  a  portion  as  large  as  a  filbert,  mix  it  with  five 
times  as  much  lard,  or  more,  apply  it  rubbing  it  in  behind 
the  horns  on  the  neck  and  dewlap  and  along  the  spine 
till  all  disappears.  Keepthe  animalhousedduringstorms 
or  cold  weather,  and  apply  again  at  the  end  of  a  week. 
The  last  is  a  very  dangerous  remedy  if  not  used  with  care. 

Skeep  Palling  tlieir  Wool. — A  sub- 
icriber  inquires:  “What  causes  sheep  to  pull  their 
wool  ?  ”  It  is  often  attributed  to  high  feeding,  and  as 
often  to  keeping  poorly.  It  is  a  skin  disease,  probably 
oaused  by  some  parasite,  like  the  itch,  or  mange  insect, 
■nd  developed  by  too  much  exposure  to  cold  and  wet 
storms,  foul  yards  and  sheds,  a  lack  of  succulent  food, 
and  the  want  of  a  good  supply  of  water  and  salt.  There 
are  remedies  for  the  disease,  such  as  a  decoction  of  to¬ 
bacco  water,  or  mercurial  ointment,  applied  to  the  skin. 
But  there  is  some  danger  in  applying  it  to  breeding  ewes. 
A  sure  preventive  is  clean  apartments  well  littered 
with  straw,  two  or  three  feedings  of  roots  every  week, 
access  to  clean  water  and  salt,  and  hemlock  or  pine 
boughs,  fed  occasionally  during  the  winter. 

To  llalce  a,  Ewe  €>wm  a  Strange 
kamb. — Ewes  recognize  their  own  lambs  by  a  peculiar 
odor,  and  by  their  voice,  color,  and  form.  Sometimes  a 
good  ewe  loses  her  lamb,  while  another  one  has  two.  In 
such  instances,  it  is  much  better  to  let  the  ewe  that  has 
lost  her  lamb  have  one  of  the  twins  to  rear,  instead  of 
allowing  them  to  suck  their  own  dam,  while  a  good  ewe 
has  no  lamb.  To  make  a  ewe  own  the  lamb  of  another, 
fie  her  in  a  close  pen  and  put  the  lamb  with  her.  If  she 
is  inclined  to  butt,  or  kick  it,  tie  her  head  to  the  rack, 
'and  her  hind  feet  about  four  inches  apart.  If  she  will 
not  butt  the  lamb,  her  head  need  not  be  tied.  In  a  few 
days  she  will  own  it,  and  it  will  forget  its  own  <lam.  By 
putting  one  of  a  pair  of  twins  on  a  ewe  that  has  lost  her 
lamb,  she  may  be  saved  serious  injury  from  garget. 
A  plan  often  successful  is  to  remove  tlie  skin  from  the 
dead  Iamb,  and  place  the  whole,  or  part  of  it,  upon  the 
Jamb  to  be  introduced  in  its  place. 

Dipping'  Sli©ep-  Laloi-’s  Contipnniid. 
— A  most  important  operation  for  the  health  of  the  sheep 
and  their  freedom  from  vermin.  Where  there  is  the  least 
tendency  or  cause  to  fear  such,  or  where  sheep  have  been 
pulling  their  wool,  make  preparations  to  dip  the  whole 
flock.  When  the  sheep  have  ticks  only,  within  a  few 
weeks  after  shearing,  they  will  all,  or  nearly  all,  be  found 
on  the  Iambs,  and  these  should  be  dipped,  though  the 
entire  flock  ought  to  undergo  the  operation  as  often  as 
once  in  two  years.  The  dipping  liquors  used  are  tobacco 
water,  arsenic  water,  and  sundry  other  violent  poisons. 
Into  which  the  sheep,  especially  the  heavy  ones,  must  be 
dipped  with  great  care.  We  have  abundant  testimony 
from  those  who  have  used  the  sheep-dipping  compound 
advertised  by  Lalor  Brothers,  of  its  great  efficacy,  and  of 
the  excellent  condition  of  their  flocks.  Mr.  Lalor  in¬ 
formed  us  of  its  composition  before  we  took  the  adver¬ 
tisement,  It  is,  of  course,  poisonous,  taken  internally, 
and  painfuUn  the  eyes  or  mouth.  Used  with  the  cautions 
enjoined,  It  will,  we  doubt  not,  remove  scab,  lice,  ticks, 
etc.,  thoroughly,  without  hurting  the  fleece. 

Old  Slteep  for  Wool. — W.  Farmer,  Jef¬ 
ferson  Co.,  Ind.,  inquires  if  old  sheep  will  yield  as  much 
wool  as  younger  ones,  how  many  years  they  may  be  kept 
for  wool  with  profit,  and  if  their  age  can  be  determined 
by  their  teeth  ?  Young  sheep  that  have  attained  their 
growth,  will  yield  more  wool  than  old  sheep  that  have 
lost  a  portion  of  their  teeth.  The  front  teeth  are  a  very 
certain  index  to  the  age  of  sheep,  until  they  are  eight  to 
twelve  years  old.  As  soon  as  the  front  teeth  begin  to 
fall,  It  is  more  profitable  to  fatten  the  older  ones  and 
keep  younger  ones  for  wool. 


Stretekes  in  Skeep.— When  sheep  are 
fed  no  roots,  apples,  or  evergreen  boughs,  they  are  very 
liable  to  costiveness,  and  -when  this  is  extreme,  it  In¬ 
duces  cholic,  or  “  the  stretches.”  A  prevention  is  much 
better  than  a  remedy.  Fattening  wethers  and  ewes  that 
are  kept,  for  the  most  part,  on  straw  and  corn,  and  oil 
meal,  ought  to  have  a  feed  of  roots,  at  least  two  or  three 
times  a  week,  as  a  preventive,  and  hemlock  boughs 
may  be  fed  freely  to  advantage— and  the  same  things  are 
curative,  if  the  disease  is  already  apparent.  Two  or  three 
tablespoonfuls  of  raw  linseed  oil,  given  clear,  relieve 
ordinary  oases.  More  active  purgatives  are  often  used. 

Beans  fbr  Skeep. — “  Subscriber,”  Portage 
Co.,  O.,  asks  :  “  Are  beans  good  for  sheep — for  wool,  for 
fattening,  and  for  breeding  ewes  ?  ”  There  is  no  better 
feed  for  any  kind  of  sheep  than  beans,  and  they  are  even 
superior  to  peas  for  producing  a  large  flow  of  milk.  Fed 
to  fattening  ewes  and  wethers,  one  pound  each  daily, 
with  some  hay,  corn  stalks,  and  bright  straw — or  nothing 
but  beans  and  straw — they  will  make  good  mutton  in  a 
short  time.  After  ewes  have  dropped  their  lambs,  feed  half 
a  pound  of  beans  daily.  Breeding  ewes,  however,  should 
not  be  fed  with  beans  until  after  they  have  yeaned,  as 
such  feed,  by  producing  a  great  flow  of  milk  pre\  'ous  to 
parturition,  may  induce  garget.  Beans  should  a 'ways 
be  steeped  ten  or  twelve  hours  before  feeding,  especially 
if  sheep  are  aged  or  have  poor  teeth. 

Dog  Laws  of  New««¥ersey.~“  J.  O.” 
writes :  “  By  the  laws  of  New-Jersey  the  assessors  en¬ 
roll  all  tlie  dogs  ;  the  bills  for  sheep  bitten  by  dogs  are 
brought  in  the  first  Monday  in  October,  and  the  amount 
is  assessed  on  dog-owners”— as  it  ought  to  be. 

Profit  of  Skeep  in  1864.  — “J.  O.,” 
Somerset  County,  N.  J.,  writes :  “  In  the  fall  of  1863,  I 
bought  28  sheep  out  of  a  drove,  at  $4.25  a  piece ;  kept  a 
ram  lamb  of  ray  own,  worth  $6,  which  made  the  cost  of 
flock  $125.  Sold  to  tlie  butcher  25  lambs,  for  $143  ;  4  old 
sheep,  for  $32,  and  the  buck  for  $13.  Killed  1  lamb,  $6, 
and  sold  84  pounds  of  wool  for  $64.68,  (which  was  sold 
too  soon,  as  it  advanced  30  cents  per  pound)  making  in 
all  $253.08,  which  is  gross  profits,  cost  of  keeping  not  be¬ 
ing  deducted.  I  now  have  left  24  ewes,  which  last  fall 
were  woi'th  as  much  as  the  28  were  the  year  before,  and 
81  Iambs,  which  I  expect  to  sell  by  the  first  of  May  for 
$8  or  $10  a  piece,  which  will  bring  the  receipts  on  account 
of  the  flock  up  to  $326,  or  more. 

Syrup  from  Com.— J.  H.  S.,  Stillwater, 
Minn.,  writes  that  some  one  advertises  to  send  a  receipt 
for  one  dollar  which  will  instruct  one  to  make  syrup  from 
corn. — Don’t  do  it.  If  any  one  has  a  process  of  any  value 
he  will  go  into  the  manufacture  himself  and  not  peddle 
his  process  for  a  low  price.  There  are  only  two  ways  in 
which  corn  syrup  can  be  made.  One  from  the  stalks 
before  the  giain  is  ripe,  by  expressing  the  juice  and  treat¬ 
ing  like  sorghum  ;  and  the  other,  from  the  starch  in  the 
grain  itself,  which  Is  a  chemical  process  requiring  a  large 
outlay  for  apparatus  to  get  a  product  of  doubtful  value. 

Preserving  Baitter.— J.  H.  Becktel  in¬ 
quires  for  “the  best  method  of  preserving  butter  made  in 
June  or  July  for  winter  use  ?”  When  butter  comes  hard 
and  yellow,  and  is  well  worked,  salted,  and  packed  In 
stone  pots,  and  covered  with  a  wet  cloth  with  a  layer  of 
clean  salt  over  it  half  an  inch  thick,  and  kept  in  a  cool 
cellar,  where  the  air  is  pure,  it  will  be  first  rate  tlie  next 
winter.  If  it  comes  soft,  as  it  sometimes  does  in  hot 
weather,  and  the  buttermilk  Is  not  all  worked  out,  or  if 
it  be  not  well  salted,  it  will  not  keep  well,  and  if  packed 
with  good  butter  the  whole  will  probably  be  tainted  be¬ 
fore  the  hot  weather  is  over. 

H«iv  ®nr  Soldiers  get  Fresli  Beef. 
Comical  ExliIbitiOBi.s.— Among  other  supplies,  a 
drove  of  beef  cattle  is  usually  kept  near  each  army  or 
division  of  the  army,  from  which  the  requisite  number  is 
dra-wn  for  slaughter,  from  time  to  time,  and  served  out 
in  rations.  These  droves  accompany  moving  bodies  of 
troops,  on  foot.  When  there  is  a  “  water  base  of  supplies” 
the  animals  are  taken  on  transports,  usually  large  steam 
propellers.  The  transports  are  anchored  in  ten  or  twenty 
feet  of  water,  a  little  distance  from  the  shore;  a  side-door 
or  gangway  is  opened,  from  the  main  cattle  deck,  usually 
five  or  ten  feet  above  the  water.  The  animals  are  then 
crowded  against  this,  and  they  plunge  into  tlie  water  one 
by  one,  often  two  or  three  or  more  at  a  time,  and 
usually  head  forward  but  not  unfrequently  sidewise  or 
backward.  The  animals  disappear  for  a  moment,  but 
always  come  up  head  first,  and  at  once  strike  out  for  the 
shore,  where  they  land  well  washed  from  filth,  and  re¬ 
freshed  by  the  ducking,  especially  in  w.nrm  weather. 
Though  they  look  down  very  wistfully,  when  about  to 
plunge,  they  always  seem  to  enjoy  it  afterwards.  The 
whole  performance  is  very  comical  and  always  attracts 


crowds  of  officers,  soldiers,  and  others  if  near,  who  look 
on  by  the  hour.  At  City  Point  we  more  than  once  saw 
Gen.  Grant  among  the  interested  spectators— especially 
toward  evening.  Sometimes  two  or  three  steamers  were 
unloading  at  a  time,  and  half  an  acre  or  so  of  well  wash¬ 
ed  cattle  accumulated  on  the  shore,  before  they  -wer* 
started  for  the  herd  grounds.  Though  the  tide  often  run 
very  strong,  we  never  heard  of  a  bullock  being  lost. 
Cattle  are  good  swimmers. 

Covering-  Grass  Seed.— W.  R.  Rough, 
Mich.,  inquires  whether  the  grass  seed  attachment  to 
grain  drills  should  be  behind,  or  before  the  drill  ?  Always 
behind,  and  never  forward  of  the  tubes,  or  teeth.  If  for 
ward  of  the  teeth,  a  large  proportion  of  the  seed  will  be 
covered  too  deep.  The  rain  'will  always  cover  it  deep 
enough.  Such  small  seeds  should  never  be  covered 
more  than  one-fourth  of  an  inch.  The  seed  has  not 
strength  to  throw  up  a  stem  through  much  depth  of  soil. 

Plaster,  ®r  Gypsmn.— It  requires  four 
hundred  and  sixty  pounds  of  water  to  dissolve  one 
hundred  pounds  of  gypsum.  It  must  be  dissolved  before 
it  can  be  of  any  service  in  promoting  the  growth  of 
plants.  Therefore,  see  that  it  is  ground  as  fine  as  prac¬ 
ticable,  and  sowed  early  in  the  season.  If  ground  coarse, 
and  sowed  after  spring  rains  have  fallen,  only  a  portion 
of  it  will  be  dissolved  in  time  to  benefit  the  young  plants. 
Sow  from  one  to  three  bashels  per  acre  on  young  clover. 
There  is  no  danger  from  sowing  it  too  thick.  On  some 
soils,  two  bushels  of  gypsum  per  acre,  and  a  half  a 
bushel  of  salt,  sowed  immediately  after  spring  wheat  has 
been  put  in,  have  a  good  effect  on  the  crop. 

Poi&ltry  Statement.— J.  S.  Watkins, 
Bergen  Co.,  N.  J,,  says  he  keeps  fowls  for  his  own  use 
solely.  He  began  in  1864,  with  82  hens  and  2  cocks,  and 
lost  8  by  disease.  “  They  laid  8,793  eggs,  which,  at  the 
aver.age  18  hens,  was  165  eggs  each.  They  raised  100 
chickens,  which  were  hatched  from  110  of  the  eggs, 
The  fowls  are  a  cross  between  the  Black  Spanish  and 
the  White  Leghorn,  and  the  hens  will  weigh  about 
pounds’  each.  Every  hen  wanted  to  sit  at  least  once, 
and  some  hatched  two  broods  during  the  season.” 

Eemces,  Gates,  and  Posts.— A  lawful 
fence  in  New-York  is  4X  feet  high.  When  repairing  rail 
fences,  keep  new  rails  together.  If  not  peeled,  always 
put  the  bark  side  down,  as  they  will  la.st  much  longer 
than  with  the  bark  up.  A  cheap  board  fence  may  be 
made  with  three  boards,  six  inches  wide,  with  a  ridge  of 
earth  in  place  of  the  bottom  boai'd.  Improve  rainy  days 
in  making  gates.  A  laborer  who  receives  thirty  dollars 
per  montii,  and  board,  ought  to  be  able  to  make  a  good 
gate  in  a  day,  and  set  the  posts  and  hang  it.  It  will  re¬ 
quire  not  more  than  two  hours  longer  to  make  a  good 
gate  than  a  pair  of  bars.  By  making  the  gate  to  turn  on 
the  heel  stile,  instead  of  iron  hinges,  the  expense  will  be 
only  a  little  more  than  for  a  pair  of  bars...  ..Posts  and 
stakes  will  last  many  years  longer,  if  well  seasoned  be¬ 
fore  they  are  set  in  the  ground.  Charred  posts  will  not 
last  as  long  as  those  not  charred.  The  bark  should  al¬ 
ways  be  removed,  as  it  hastens  their  decay.  A  heavy 
coat  of  coal  tar  applied  to  posts  a  foot  below  and  a  few 
inches  above  the  surface  of  the  ground,  will  keep  them 
from  rotting  longer  than  anything  else,  except  thorough 
kyanizing.  Posts  or  stakes  made  out  of  the  but  logs 
will  last  much  longer  than  the  top  logs.  But-end  or  top 
end  down,  will  make  no  difference  in  durability. 

Biicfetliorn  Seeds.— “W.  A.,”  Marlboro, 
Mass.— We  have  no  doubt  that  the  seeds  from  the  berries 
that  have  remained  since  autumn  upon  the  bushes  will 
germinate,  as  they  will  do  so  when  exposed  all  winter 
to  the  weather  in  a  box  of  earth. 

Diseased  Apple  Trees.— J.  H.  Taylor, 
Siskyou  Co.,  Cal.,  says  that  his  apple  trees  are  attacked 
by  a  peculiar  disease.  The  bark  splits  a  few  inches 
above  the  ground,  separates  from  the  wood,  and  ulti¬ 
mately  the  tree  is  girdled.  It  is  impossible  to  tell  the  cause 
of  this  without  examining  the  specimens.  As  to  treat¬ 
ment,  we  should  try  heroic  surgery.  On  the  first  appear¬ 
ance  of  the  trouble,  cut  out  the  affected  part  down  to 
sound  wood  and  bark,  and  put  on  a  liberal  plaster  ol 
grafting  clay.  This  would  probably  be  an  effectual 
remedy,  if  the  trouble  were  caused  by  insects  or  fungi. 

Yellow  Locust  for  Tiinl>er.— Yellow 
locust  grows  very  rapidly,  and  the  limber  is  valuable  for 
carriage  hubs,  for  pins  and  wedges  in  building  ships,  for 
fence  posts,  etc.  It  is  often  planted  in  vacant  places  in 
the  woods,  and  along  the  highways.  When  planted  close 
together  they  grow  tall  and  straight.  When  standing 
alone  too  much  of  their  growth  goes  to  branches.  If 
the  seeds  were  not  planted  last  fall,  they  must  be  put  into 
scalding  hot  water  to  soften  the  tough  skin,  otherwis» 


1866.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICTJETURIST, 


148 


they  will  not  germinate  the  present  year.  Where  the 
whole  ground  Is  planted  to  locusts,  they  should  be  in  drills 
about  twelve  feet  apart,  potatoes,  beans,  or  turnips  being 
cultivated  between  the  rows  for  a  few  seasons,  then  thin 
out  the  young  trees  to  about  thirty  inches  apart,  and 
prune  off  the  lower  branches  to  make  them  grow  tall.  The 
ravages  of  the  borer  have  been  such  in  many  parts  of  the 
country  as  entirely  to  discourage  the  planting  of  locusts, 
line  plantations  of  young  trees  having  been  destroyed. 

Quince  lor  Stocks. — W.  B.  Dayton,  Ham¬ 
ilton  Co.,  Ohio.— The  Angers  quince  is  a  variety  which 
originated  in  a  French  town  of  that  name.  It  is  distin¬ 
guished  by  its  rapid  growth  and  better  suited  for  a 
stock  than  the  slower  growing  kinds.  Any  free  growing 
variety  will  probably  answer  as  good  a  purpose,  and  there 
are  those  which  are  preferred  by  some  nurserymen  to  the 
Angers.  We  have  not  heard  that  Rea’s  Seedling  has 
been  tried  as  a  stock.  It  is  valued  for  the  large  size  and 
fine  quality  of  its  fruit,  but  is  rather  scarce  as  yet. 

nianetti  Stock.— The  Manetti  rose,  now  so 
largely  used  as  a  stock  upon  which  to  bud  the  finer  sorts 
of  roses,  is  a  seedling  variety,  raised  by  a  Signor  Crevelli, 
and  named  after  Signor  Manetti,  the  director  of  a  botan¬ 
ical  garden,  near  Lake  Como,  in  Italy. 

Orapes  in  Spring’. — In  the  middle  of  last 
March,  there  were  very  perfect  Isabella  Grapes,  as  fresh 
as  if  just  picked,  upon  our  exhibition  tables.  The  speci¬ 
mens  are  from  Mr.  John  Cole,  Staten  Island,  who  states 
his  process  as  follows:  “Select  a  clear  day  to  cut  the 
fruit,  when  every  berry  is  perfect.  Provide  a  box  made 
water  tight,  with  the  top  lid  to  project  over  one  inch  all 
around  to  keep  water  out,  then  lay  in  the  bunches  care¬ 
fully  so  that  they  will  not  touch  one  another,  until  the  bot¬ 
tom  of  the  box  is  filled;  then  place  some  strips  across 
the  box  so  as  to  just  clear  the  bunches,  and  thus  fill  up 
the  box.  Put  the  cover  on  tight  to  prevent  the  water 
from  getting  in,  and  place  the  box  in  the  driest  part  of  the 
garden,  down  below  tlie  frost.”  Mr.  Cole  tried  stone  jars 
but  did  not  find  them  to  answer  as  well  as  wooden  boxes. 
The  grapes  would  doufetless  have  kept  much  longer. 

The  Isabella  Grape. — “A  Reader,”  Bris¬ 
tol,  Penn. — There  is  probably  no  help  for  an  Isabella  vine 
which  will  not  perfect  its  fruit.  If  it  has  failed  for  seve¬ 
ral  years  in  succession,  it  is  best  to  put  a  more  reliable 
variety,  such  as  the  Delaware  or  Concord,  in  its  place. 

Orape  Trellises. — A.  Kerl,  Illinois. — No 
doubt  that  the  cheapest  vine  trellis  is  that  described  in 
Fuller’s  Grape  Guitarist  and  in  the  Agriculturist  for 
August,  1863.  Ifthe  facilities  are  greater  for  making  it 
entirely  of  wood,  the  excellent  plan  of  Mr.  Knox  will 
he  found  in  the  April  number  of  the  same  year. 

Keans. — S.  D.  Rodman,  Niagara  Co. :  The 
Early  Rachel  and  Refugee  are  neither  of  them  valued 
when  ripe,  and  would  not  meet  with  a  ready  sale.  The 
only  colored  beans  we  have  seen  in  the  New  York  mar¬ 
kets  are  a  black  variety,  known  as  the  “  Turtle  Soup 
Bean,”  which  is  sparingly  used  for  bean  soup,  and  a 
brownish  sort  known  as  French  Beans,  The  demand  for 
either  sort,  as  compared  with  that  for  the  white  beans,  is 
very  limited,  and  confined  to  the  seed  dealers. 

Onions  again.-G.  A.  Harpinger,  Snyder 
Co.,  Pa.— Generally  onions  cannot  be  raised  from  seed  in 
localities  much  south  of  New  York  City,  but  we  are  un¬ 
able  to  designate  the  southern  limits  of  successful  onion 
culture.  In  this  vicinity  and  northward,  large  onions  are 
obtained  the  first  year  from  seed.  Where  they  will  not 
perfect,  sets  must  be  grown.  In  this  case  it  takes  two 
years  to  raise  the  crop.  The  seeds  are  early  sown 
thickly  in  shallow  drills  about  10  indies  apart,  and  when 
the  crop  matures,  in  July,  the  little  bulbs  are  spread  in  an 
airy  room  to  keep  until  the  next  spring. 

His  Onions  Stopped  Growing.— A. 

Pratt,  Norfolk  Co.,  Mass.,  had  the  growth  of  his  crop  of 
onions  checked  by  drouth,  and  has  a  lot  of  small  bulbs, 
as  well  as  a  quantity  of  “bull-necks,”  or  scallions. 
The  well  developed  bulbs  may  be  planted  as  sets,  and  if 
any  of  them  throw  up  flower  stems,  they  must  be  re¬ 
moved  as  soon  as  they  appear.  A  scallion  will  probably 
never  form  a  good  bulb.  It  may  be  well  enough  to  set 
them  out  to  pull  for  young  onions,  or  “  rare-ripes.” 

A  Tine  Tloral  Show. — Mr.  Wm.  Chorl- 
ton,  of  Staten  Island,  has  another  splendid  show  of  Camel¬ 
lias  at  our  office.  The  collection  includes  Prince  Albert, 
Dunlap’s  White,  Binneyi,  Candidissima,  Imbrioata, 
Mrs.  Abby  Wilder,  Landrethii,  Speciosissima,  Fordii,’ 
Myrtifolla,  Fimbriata,  Wra.  Penn,  Alba  plena,  Wilderii, 
lormosa,  etc.,  and  other  fine  varieties. 


The  Trumpet  Honeynttckle. — “  E.  E. 
M.,”  Minneapolis,  Minn.,  in  reference  to  the  range  of  this 
plant  in  the  wild  state  says  :  “It  is  found  here  quite  abun¬ 
dantly  in  three  varieties,  yellow,  scarlet,  and  dark  crim¬ 
son.”  As  there  are  other  species  of  Lonicera  besides 
the  sempervirens,  it  will  be  necessary  for  us  to  see 
specimens  before  the  fact  of  the  far  northern  locality  for 
this  plant  can  be  considered  established. 

Knclmnsin’s  New  Hose. — This  new  rose 
which  bears  the  name  of  Catherine  Sprunt,  has  been 
cultivated  by  Mr.  Buchanan  for  several  years  and  is 
now  to  be  sent  out  as  advertised  last  month.  Rose 
fanciers  will  value  this  as  a  welcome  addition  to  the  list 
of  yellow  Tea  roses,  as  it  has  all  the  good  qualities 
of  its  parent,  tlie  Safrano,  with  a  much  belter  color. 

The  Cliinese  Trimrose. — Eliza  Preston. 
This  is  a  biennial  and  suited  only  to  green  house  culture. 
It  is  usually  raised  from  the  seed. 

Txtermination  of  the  YFild  Horn¬ 
ing  Glory, — R.  J.  Kelly,  Clark  Co.,  O.,  says,  that  this, 
which  is  a  troublesome  weed  in  some  parts  of  the  West, 
may  be  exterminated  by  turning  liogs  into  the  field.  He 
had  a  lot  badly  infested  and  the  hogs  rooted  them  out. 

Chickweed. — Miss  M.  E.  Coolidge.  This  oc¬ 
curs  “as  a  nuisance”  only  in  cold  and  wet  soil,  and  its 
presence  is  a  pretty  sure  indication  tliat  draining  is  need¬ 
ed.  In  old  gardens  it  will  frequently  form  a  complete 
mat  over  the  surface  in  spring  and  fall,  and  is  so  tena¬ 
cious  of  life  that  it  will  flourish  when  every  other  plant 
is  dead  from  the  cold. 

Unsicasonahle  Insects. — Mr.  A.  T.  Fry- 
lick  of  Hackensack,  N.  J.,  brought  to  our  office  in  Feb¬ 
ruary,  a  box  containing  grasshoppers,  all  “  alive  and 
kicking.”  He  states  that  although  there  w.as  snow  upon 
the  ground  these  insects  were  around  his  house  in 
myriads.  Tlie  question  is :  where  did  they  come  from, 
and  what  becomes  of  them  ? 

I.arge  Yield  of  Sqnasli. — S.  T.  W.nrd, 

Middlesex  Co.,  raised  from  two  seeds  of  Honolulu  va¬ 
riety  1,055  lbs.  of  squashes,  and  asks  who  can  beat  this. 

Keatli  of  an  Txtent^ive  Tarmer. — 

William  Wickham  Mills,  of  Smithtown,  Suffolk  Co., 
L.  I.,  died  on  the  6th  of  January,  in  the  69th  year  of  his 
age.  He  was  one  of  the  largest  and  most  prosperous 
farmers  on  the  Island,  having  inherited  the  family  estate 
of  1500  acres,  which  had  never  been  deeded.  This  he 
Increased  to  over  3000  acres.  Mr.  Mills  was  successful  as 
a  stock  breeder,  famous  for  his  fine  horses  and  neat 
cattle,  and,  we  believe,  was  once  President  of  the  old 
Suffolk  County  Agricultural  Society. 

Didicnlt  to  Answer.— A  gentleman  in 
Ohio  writes:  “  Please  inform  me  how,  at  the  present 
prices  of  produce  we  can  realize  the  largest  profit  next 
fall  from  one  acre”  a  description  of  which  follows.  This 
is  a  specimen  of  the  many  unanswerable  questions  which 
come  to  us.  Aside  from  the  difficulty  of  seeing  how  the 
present  prices  of  produce  are  to  be  a  guide  to  con¬ 
clusions,  there  are  many  others  in  the  way.  If  there  is 
but  one  acre,  it  will  of  course  yield  the  most  as  a  market 
garden,  and  the  articles  to  be  grown  will  depend  upon 
the  facilities  for  disposing  of  the  product.  The  most 
profitable  piece  of  land  we  ever  knew  of,  bore  three  crops 
the  same  season  ;  lettuce  in  the  spring,  wliich  was  out 
of  the  way  in  time  for  tomatoes  and  celery.  An  acre  of 
land  devoted  to  any  of  the  field  crops  will  not  amount  to 
much  at  any  rate,  but  if  one  has  the  time  to  make  a 
garden  of  it,  it  can  usually  be  made  profitable.  Cabbages 
might  pay  better  for  either  feeding  or  marketing  titan 
anything  else,  and  peas  or  lettuce  miglit  be  taken  off  first. 

Tioanlngr  tke  AgriCMlturist.— A  sub. 
scriber  in  Charlestown,  Ind.,  asks  if  it  is  right  to  loan 
his  paper  to  his  neighbors,  and  complains  that  his  numbers 
get  worn  out,  while  those  who  borrow  them  receive  for 
nothing  all  the  benefit  which  he  pays  for.  This  is  a  ques¬ 
tion  which  every  one  must  decide  for  himself,  as  in  all 
other  cases  of  bestowing  charity.  If  alms-giving  en¬ 
courages  laziness  it  becomes  wrong,  while  properly  exer¬ 
cised  it  does  great  good.  We  should  cheerfully  loan  the 
paper  to  worthy  people  who  were  unable  to  pay  for  it, 
and  to  those  who  were  able  to  take  it  and  did  not,  we 
should  loan  this  copy  with  this  article  marked,  and 
probably  the  trouble  will  cease. 

Todd’s  Yoims  Tarmer’s  manual. 

—The  2d  and  3d  volumes  of  The  Young  Farmer’s  Manual 
are  now  in  the  printer’s  hands,  and  will  be  given  to  the 
public  before  long,  uniform  with  what  must  now  be 
called  Vol.  1.  The  2d  is  on— How  to  Make  Farming 
Pay.  The  3d — On  The  Cultivation  of  Various  Crops. 


A  Hint  to  fl.a’W'-Makcrs.— W.  G.  G. 

Gratacap  sensibly  suggests  a  source  which  has  been 
overlooked  in  the  framing  of  our  revenue  laws.  A* 
numerous  two-legged  marauders,  without  feathers,  per¬ 
sist  in  killing  his  two-legged  feathered  friends  who  de¬ 
stroy  the  insects  which  prey  upon  liis  fruit,  he  asks  that 
there  be  a  taxon  promiscuous  shooting,  as  well  as  upon 
useful  employments,  and  suggests  that  the  place  for 
those  who  are  so  fond  of  pulling  the  trigger  is  at  the 
army  front.  Farmers,  doctors,  picklers,  and  all  the 
curing  professions  are  taxed,  and  we  do  not  see  why  the 
killers  should  go  free.  Tax  the  bird  destroyers. 

About  “  Ea-rtli  Glasses.” — A  “Dr.” 
Andrews  sends  out  circulars  offering  for  $10  and  25  three 
cent  stamps,  to  send  a  pair  of  “  Earth  Glasses,”  by  wear¬ 
ing  which  he  says  one  “can  see  into  the  ground  and 
through  rocks,  rubbish,  water,  &c.,  just  the  same  as  we 
usually  see  objects  on  the  lop  of  the  earth,  or  as  Owls, 
Bats,  &c.,  see  at  night.”  The  Agriculturist  is  furnished 
for  $1.50  per  year,  and  with  it  any  one  can  see  through 
this  and  many  other  similar  humbugs.  Don’t  be  swin¬ 
dled  by  “Dr.”  Andrews,  or  any  of  his  class. 

Mungoes. — “  Subscriber,”  Delaware  Countv, 
Pa.— The  pickles  called  mangoes  are  unripe  m’usk- 
melons,  about  the  size  of  a  large  orange,  stuffed  with 
chopped  cabbage,  horseradish,  mustard  seed,  allspice, 
and  any  other  condiments  that  may  be  fancied. 

Hard  Soap.  —  Several  contributors  write 
that  having  tried  the  recipe  (N  1)  for  making  hard  soap 
published  in  the  March  Agricu'turist,  they  found  it  t* 
produce  a  good  article,  but  not  in  aj  large  quantity  as 
there  represented.  Instead  of  40  lbs.,  July  from  9  to  15 
pounds  are  reported. 

Onion  Sower  Wanted.— W.  Jackson, 
Oneida  Co.,  N.  Y.,  inquires  for  an  onion  seed  drill  as 
scribed  by  J.  Dennis,  writer  of  Essay  No.  3,  in  Uie  pam¬ 
phlet  on  Onion  Culture.  Those  having  the  article  for 
sale  should  advertise  it. 

Smolced  Meat  Packed  in  Salt. — 

“  S.  W.,”  of  Oyster  Bay,  writes;  “In  the  March 
‘Basket’  you  recommend  packing  smoked  meat  in  dry 
salt.  I  tried  it  one  year ;  the  salt  attracted  moisture, 
and  kept  the  meat  soft ;  hence,  when  exposed,  the  flies 
troubled  it.  Since  then,  I  have  hung  it  in  a  perfectly 
dark,  dry  room,  and  it  has  kept  satisfactorily.” 

Forty  Million  Newspapers.— The 

“American  News  Company,”  of  this  city,  which  supplies 
dealers  throughout  the  country  with  newspapers,  maga¬ 
zines,  books  and  stationery,  reports  about  forty  million 
newspapers  as  having  been  distributed  by  the  70  employ¬ 
ees  of  the  Company  during  eleven  months  of  last  year. 
In  that  time  the  receipts  amounted  to  $2,226,372,  and  the 
packing  paper  and  twine  cost  $12,000  ! 

Kest  Kind  of  Pumps.  —  Several  sub¬ 
scribers  have  inquired  for  “the  best  kind  of  pumps?” 
For  a  pump  out  of  doors,  the  common  clitiin  pump  suits 
us  belter  than  any  of  the  same  price,  for  wells  of  moder¬ 
ate  depth,  as  water  will  not  freeze  np  in  it.  When  th* 
combined  suction  and  lifting  pump  is  used  where  water 
will  freeze,  careless  people  will  not  always  raise  the 
handle  to  let  the  water  down.  For  this  reason,  tlie 
pump  is  often  frozen  up  and  the  pipe  bursts.  If  a  well  be 
deep,  and  a  small  vent  hole  be  made  in  the  pipe  of  a 
lifting  pump,  above  the  piston,  the  water  will  run  out 
sufficiently  before  it  freezes. 

Motlicr’s  Picture  Alplmbet. — Messrs. 
Carteton  &  Porter  have  issued  a  most  beautiful  volume, 
designed  for  small  children  just  beginning  to  learn  to  read. 
It  contains  56  pages  considerably  larger  than  a  large 
school  atlas,  with  a  splendid  full  page  engraving  for  each 
letter  of  the  alphabet,  and  a  page  of  simple  words  in 
rhyme  opposite — the  whole  well  calculated  to  “  stimulate 
investigation,  improve  the  taste,  and  give  pleasant  and 
Instructive  employment.”  It  is  superior  to  any  thing  of 
the  kind  we  have  seen  in  this  country.  It  has  been  about 
a  year  in  preparation,  and  the  engravings  alone  cost 
nearly  $2000.  The  price  is  $2. 

Cornllnslcs  WamtetS. — Some  of  the  pub¬ 
lishers  of  newspapers  in  New-York  City  intend  to  test 
the  feasibility  of  making  paper  from  corn  husks  or 
shucks,  and  they  advertise  for  a  supply  of  the  material. 
A  notice  given  in  the  daily  papers  says  they  wish  “  pro¬ 
posals  from  every  town,  county  and  State  in  the  United 
States  for  supplying  clean,  sound  and  well  dried  husks, 
as  the  same  are  stripped  from  the  ripe  corn — the  liusks  to 
be  baled  in  even  hundreds  of  pounds,  and  delivered  at 
railroad  stations.”  Proposals  to  be  addressed  to  Mr.  D. 
H.  Craig,  Agent  of  the  Associated  Frese,  N.  Y.  Cltj, 


144 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


How  to  Cwitivate  Sweet  I®otatoes. 
— The  following,  flora  Mr.  J.  C.  Thompson,  Staten 
Island,  came  too  late  to  be  used  in  the  notes  on  page 
154,  and  we  give  it  here.  Mr.  T.  is  one  of  the  most 
successful  growers  in  the  vicinity  of  New-York.  He 
requests  us  to  say  that  he  has  no  plants  for  sale  :  “For 
garden  culture,  fine,  well-rotted  manure  is  deposited  in 
strips  three  feet  apart,  upon  undug  ground.  Make  the 
ground  fine  between  the  rows  of  manure,  and  throw  the 
pulverized  earth  upon  the  manure,  thus  forming  sharp 
ridges  about  ten  inches  high.  This  should  be  d(  ne  in 
April,  or  early  in  May,  when  the  ground  is  in  good  work¬ 
ing  order.  Let  it  stand  till  planting  time, — from  May 
loth  to  June  10th,— then  rake  off  the  sharp  edge  of  the 
ridge,  so  that  it  is  a  little  fiat  on  top.  Set  the  plants  12  to 
15  inches  apart.  When  they  have  run  10  to  12  inches, 
break  down  the  ridges.  Use  a  fork,  and  run  it  down  quite 
close  to  the  plants,  throwing  the  earth  into  the  furrow. 
This  leaves  the  plants  standing  on  a  thin  ridge  of  earth. 
I'her,  with  the  edge  of  Ihe  fork,  knock  out  the  earth  be¬ 
tween  each  plant.  Each  plant  will  now  stand  upon  a 
separate  mound.  This  process  cleans  them  thoroughly, 
and  should  be  performed  in  dry,  hot  weather.  Make  the 
earth  which  has  been  removed  as  fine  as  possible,  and  re¬ 
form  the  ridges  in  an  oval,  or  crowning  shape,  on  top. 
This  moving  and  fineing  the  earth  the  second  time  pre¬ 
vents  its  caking,  and  gives  just  the  condition  required, — 
soft  soil  at  the  sides.  As  the  vines  run,  lay  them  on  top 
of  the  ridges  once  or  twice,  and  keep  out  weeds,  and 
they  will  soon  cover  the  ground.  Treated  in  this  way, 
dry  weather  does  not  affect  them.  I  grew  them  at  the 
rate  of  over  400  bushels  to  the  acre  last  summer.” 

Xo  Hire  a  Swarm  o4’  ISees. — Mr.  Jones 
of  Dutchess  Co.,  N.  Y.,  communicates  a  convenient  way 
of  hiving  a  swarm  of  bees.  He  says  :  “  Take  a  long  pole 
and  make  the  small  end  bulky  by  wrapping  paper  around 
it,  making  it  about  as  thick  as  a  man's  arm,  and  half  as 
long;  then  bind  a  black  cloth  around  it,  (I  draw  an  old 
woolen  stocking  over  it,)  and  secure  it  with  a  cord,  then 
when  the  bees  are  swarming,  as  soon  as  they  attempt  to 
settle,  put  that  end  of  the  pole  in  the  place  where  they 
are  about  lighting,  and  usually  they  settle  on  it  immedi¬ 
ately,  but  should  they  persist  In  settling  on  the  limb,  or 
whatever  it  is,  jar  it,  so  as  to  disturb  them,  and  they  will 
leave  it  for  the  pole;  then  lay  it  gently  down  and  set  the 
hive  over  them.  Sometimes  when  fastened  pretty  firmly 
on  the  pole  It  is  expedient  to  shake  It  a  little  to  make 
them  leave  it  for  the  hive.  We  have  tried  this  plan  for 
years,  and  have  seldom  failed  in  bringing  them  down.” 

Skilled  ibr  tlie  Xarm  or 

Garden. — American  farmers  need  labor,  and  pay  a 
high  price  for  it.  They  are  obliged  to  put  up  with  a  very 
poor  kind,  and  almost  all  of  this  foreign.  We  have  long 
needed  the  ability  to  select  from  the  crowded  labor 
market  of  Europe  just  such  men  and  women  as  we 
want,  without  going  there.  There  are  thousands  of 
good  farm  hands,  shepherds,  herdsmen,  etc.,  gardeners, 
and  young  men,  with  or  without  families,  of  every  craft, 
ready  and  anxious  to  come  to  free  .America,  and  would, 
did  they  know  that  homes,  with  steady  employment,  are 
sure  when  they  arrive.  A  company  has  been  formed  to 
do  this  really  benevolent  work,  which  bids  fair  to  be 
profitable  to  the  company,  and  of  great  benefit  to  all 
who  import  labor  through  its  agency.  We  have 
watched  this  matter  with  interest  from  its  inception, 
and  know  it  to  be  in  responsible  and  excellent  hands. 
Persons  who  have  been  brought  out  to  this  country, 
selected  by  the  workingmen’s  committees  and  agencies, 
with  which  the  company  is  in  connection,  have  given 
great  satisfaction.  See  last  page  of  the  April  number. 

Refrigerators. — Housekeepers  who  do  not 
have  a  constant  supply  of  ice  on  hand  during  warm 
weather,  are  at  their  wits’ end  to  preserve  meats,  fruits, 
etc.  Those  who  use  ice,  and  keep  It  in  home-made  con- 
•rivances,  are  still  very  far  from  enjoying  all  its  conveni¬ 
ences  and  advantages.  A  good  refrigerator  is  essential, 
for  convenience,  for  economy  of  ice,  for  security  in  many 
ways.  There  are  many  forms,  but  none  more  philoso¬ 
phical  or  handy  than  the  one  advertised  by  Lesley  & 
EllioU,— the  “  Polar  Refrigerator.”  This  maintains  a 
dry  and  cold  atmosphere,  preserves  the  ice  from  contact 
even  with  impure  air,  the  w.ater  from  the  ice  collecting 
in  a  reservoir,  while  the  situation  of  the  ice-holder  in 
the  middle  divides  the  space  into  two  chambers,  which 
are  each  fuinishod  with  locks.  One  side  may  thus  be 
opened  without  affecting  the  temperature  of  the  other. 
We  speak  from  a  year’s  experience  in  using  one. 

liloyd  Haps. — H.  II.  Loyd  &  Co.  have  sent 
us  a  number  of  excellent  and  well-finished  large  maps, 
including  those  of  the  United  States,  of  .New-York,  of 
New  Jersey,  etc.  We  have  already  spoken  favorably  of 
the  reliable  character  of  this  house.  .'fee  their  ad¬ 
vertisement.  (Note  the  initial  letters  H.  u,} 


The  dreat  Bereavement. 


Before  these  words  reach  the  eye  of  the  read¬ 
er,  all  that  was  mortal  of  Abraham  Lincoln, 
will  have  been  laid  in  the  earth.  We  do  not 
propose  to  write  his  eulogy,  for  it  has  been 
spoken  in  every  loyal  dwelling  throughout  the 
land,  and  the  private  grief  in  every  household, 
not  less  than  the  ostentatious  mourning  of  this 
great  City,  with  its  drapery  of  black,  and  the 
almost  total  suspension  of  its  traffic  for  many 
days,  tell  how  universal  and  sincere  is  the  sor¬ 
row  of  the  people.  Probably  never  did  the 
death  of  any  one  man  come  to  the  hearts  of  so 
many  as  a  personal  bereavement.  Without 
brilliant  gifts  or  great  acquirements,  of  humble 
birth,  and  no  greater  opportunities  than  are 
open  to  every  farmer  boy  who  reads  this  no¬ 
tice,  he  had  a  greater  share  of  the  love  and  trust 
of  the  people,  than  was  ever  possessed  by  any 
single  individual.  The  general  deep  grief  at  his 
death  enables  us  to  see  the  great  lesson  of  his 
life :  that  sincerity  of  purpose,  a  determination 
to  do  right,  and  a  kindliness  of  heart,  ennoble  the 
highest  as  well  as  the  humblest.  Without  these, 
ABRAmvM  Lincoln  would  have  been  officially 
mourned  as  the  President,  hut  being  true, 
just  and  kind,  all  good  people  grieve.  We 
cau  not  better  express  our  estimate  of  the  Na¬ 
tion’s  loss,  than  by  recording  the  just  portrait¬ 
ure  of  this  greatest  and  best  of  American  citi¬ 
zens,  in  the  words  of  a  distinguished  clergyman : 

“  Our  beloved  President,  who  had  enshrined 
himself  not  merely  in  the  confidence,  the  re¬ 
spect  and  gratitude  of  the  people,  but  in  their 
very  hearts,  as  their  true  friend,  adviser,  repre¬ 
sentative  and  brother;  whom  the  nation  loved 
as  much  as  it  revered;  who  had  soothed  our 
angry  impatience  in  this  fearful  struggle  with 
his  gentle  moderation  and  passionless  calm ; 
who  had  been  the  head  of  the  nation,  and  not 
chief  of  a  successful  party ;  and  had  treated 
our  enemies  like  rebellious  children,  and  not  as 
foreign  foes,  providing  even  in  their  chastise¬ 
ment  for  mercy  and  penitent  restoration;  our 
prudent,  firm,  humble,  reverential.  God-fearing 
President  is  dead ! 

The  assassin’s  hand  has  reached  him  who 
was  belted  round  with  a  nation’s  devotion,  and 
whom  a  million  soldiers  have  hitherto  encircled 
with  their  watchful  guardiaushlp.  Panoplied 
in  honesty  and  simplicity  of  purpose,  too  uni¬ 
versally  well-disposed  to  believe  in  danger  to 
himself,  free  from  ambition,  self-consequence 
and  show,  he  has  always  shown  a  fearless 
heart,  gone  often  to  the  front,  made  himself  ac¬ 
cessible  to  all  at  home,  trusted  the  people, 
joined  their  amusements,  answered  their  sum¬ 
mons,  and  laid  himself  open  every  day  to  the 
malice  and  murderous  chances  of  domestic 
foes.  It  seemed  as  if  no  man  could  raise  his 
hand  against  that  meek  ruler,  or  confront  with 
purpose  of  injury  that  loving  eye,  that  sorrow- 
stricken  face,  ploughed  with  care,  and  watch¬ 
ings  and  tears!  So  marked  with  upright  patient 
purposes  of  good  to  all,  of  justice  and  mercy, 
of  sagacious,  roundabout  wisdom,  was  his 
homely  paternal  countenance,  that  I  do  not 
wonder  that  his  murderer  killed  him  from  be¬ 
hind,  and  could  not  face  the  look  that  would 
have  disarmed  him  in  the  very  moment  of  his 
criminal  madness.” 


Fourth  Annual  Strawberry  Show. 


The  success  of  former  Exhibitions  has  induced  the 
Proprietor  of  the  Agriculturist  to  hold  another  Show  of 
Strawberries  the  coming  season,  under  the  auspices 
and  direction  of  the  Fruit-Growers’  Meeting.  At  a  re¬ 
cent  meeting,  a  Committee,  consisting  of  R.  G.  Par¬ 
dee,  Wm.  S.  Carpenter,  C.  Taber,  T.  Cavanagli,  and 
G.  W.  Huntsman,  was  appointed,  to  make  arrange¬ 
ments  for  the  Exhibition.  The  Committee,  in  order  to  ac 
commodate  early  and  late  varieties,  decided  to  hold  Ex¬ 
hibitions  on  June  8th,  and  on  June  15th,  the  two  days 
forming  one  Exhibitihn.  The  fruit  must  all  be  on  the 
tables  by  one  o’clock  on  the  days  above  mentioned.  The 
Secretary  of  the  Fruit-Growers’  Meeting  will  be  in  at¬ 
tendance  to  take  charge  of  the  fruit.  At  one  o’clock  the 
doors  will  be  closed  to  allow  the  Jtliges  to  make  theii 
examination,  after  which  they  will  be  thrown  open  to  the 
public.  The  Judges  will  report  afterthe  second  Exhibi¬ 
tion,  and  will  make  the  awards  to  the  best  fruit  shown  on 
both  occasions.  The  following  gentlemen  have  been 
selected  as  Judges:  S.  B.  Parsons,  Chas.  Downing, 
B.  C.  Townsend,  S.  B.  Conover,  J.  W.  Degraw. 

SCISED17I.E  OF  FRIZES. 

L— Best  Strawberry,  new  or  old,  size,  beauty  and  ex¬ 
cellence.  consideied . 55 

0.— Best  12  approved  varieties— (1  pint  each)....'. _  S 

3.  — Second  do . .  do . .  3 

4. — Largest  and  best  collection  of  Strawberries. ... !!  5 

— Best  show  of  Strawberries  in  bearing  (on  plants).  5 

6.— Best  market  variety— (two  quarts) .  3 

I. — Heaviest  three  berries  of  one  variety .  a 

8. — Best  pint  White  Strawberries . . . t. 

9. — Best  pint  Alpines .  f 

10. — Best  new  seedling,  fruited  at  least  two  years,  but 

never  offered  for  sale  or  exhibition,  a  bearing  plant 
to  be  shown .  5 

11.  — Best  collection  of  the  newer  imported  varieties..'  2 

12.  — Best  show  of  Strawberries  grown  on  a  city  or 

village  lot  (25x100  feet) . . 3 

13.  — For  the  best  pint  of  Agriculturist,  Russell’s  Pro¬ 

lific,  Brooklyn  Scarlet,  Monitor,  Col.  Ellsworth, 
Triomphe  de  Gand,  Wilson,  Hovey,  Buffalo, 

Burr’s  New  Pine,  and  Hooker,  $1  each . fl 

C.  TABER,  Sec.  of  Com, 

Xlie  Strawberry  Plants  Sent. — The 

distribution  of  these  by  mail  began  April  3d,  and  to-day 
(April  21)  we  have  sent  off  the  last  applied  for  to  this 
date— a  little  sooner  than  we  expected,  as  the  season  is 
fully  a  week  earlier  than  usual.  Above  20,000  of  these 
have  been  mailed  In  turned  wooden  boxes,  made  for  us 
by  New'ton  &  Thompson,  of  Brandon,  Vt.  The  others, 
going  to  clubs,  or  in  parcels  of  four  or  more  plants,  have 
mostly  gone  in  paper  packages.  In  both  cases,  the 
plants  were  first  enveloped  in  damp  mo-cs,  and  then 
wrapped  in  oil-cloth.  Those  sent  this  spring,  are,  of 
course,  smaller  than  those  distributed  in  autumn,  as 
those  had  a  longer  growth,  but  these  now  sent  are  vigor¬ 
ous  and  well-rooted.  The  boxes  are  partially  an  experi¬ 
ment,  but  from  our  trials  of  keeping  plants  in  them  in 
warm  localities,  and  for  several*  days,  and  even  weeks, 
we  have  great  hopes  of  perfect  success.  If  those  thus 
packed  now  all  go  in  good  order,  the  plan  will  be  an  ex¬ 
cellent  one,  and  must  come  into  general  use.  We  have 
sent  plants  to  all  new  subscribers  (and  those  failing  last 
autumn)  who  have  applied  for  them,  and  forwarded  the 
five  cents  for  postage,  packing,  etc.  Further  applications 

now  coming  in  will  te  filled  daily. - N.  H.— A  plant 

will  be  sent  to  every  new  subscriber  now  received  before 
the  plants  become  too  far  advanced  to  take  up,  if  the  ap 
plication  be  made,  and  the  usual  five  cents  be  forwarded 
with  the  subscription.  These  plants,  thus  offered,  arc 
each  worth,  at  the  market  rates,  half  the  subscription 
price.  Any  person  forming  a  club,  or  filling  up  a  pre¬ 
vious  club  to  twenty  subscribers,  will-  receive  a  dozen 
plants,  sent  post  paid. 

IPIsix  aii«l  Hops— Tery  XaltiaMc  In- 
formation.— These  Manuals  have  been  prepared  from 
the  Essays  on  these  subjects,  with  many  instructive  en 
gravings.  Th.at  on  the  Culture  and  Management  01 
Hops  is  ready  for  delivery.  It  contains  the  recorded 
experience  of  eleven  practical  hop-growers,  to  three  or 
whom  the  prizes  were  awarded.  The  Flax-Book,  con¬ 
taining  about  64  pages,  will  consist  of  the  seven 
Prize  Essays,  and  the  gist  of  some  twenty  more ; 
the  amount  of  labor  required  in  its  preparation  has 
delayed  it  a  little,  but  it  will  be  ready  for  delivery  soon 
after  the  1st  of  May.  These  pamphlets  will  each  con 
stitute  the  most  complete  hand-books  for  the  American 
farmer  ever  published  on  the  subjects  of  which  they 
treat  respectively.  They  are  fully  illustrated.  Price  o. 
the  Hop  Culture,  40  cents  ;  of  the  Flax  Culture,  50  cents. 
They  will  be  sent  by  mail  post-paid,  at  this  price. 

.  Xlie  Practical  Fariaer.— J.  T.  Mapea 
and  others,  ask  what  h.as  become  of  the  Practical  Farmer 
It  died  months  ago,  there  not  being  a  demand  for  tha 
particular  style  of  journal. 


18C5.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICUETURIST. 


145 


Fig.  1.— LAPPED  FUREOW  SLICES. 


Plowing  Sward  Ground. 


There  are  three  ways  of  turning  under  a 
sward  in  common  use,  which  we  propose  to  con¬ 
sider  briefly.  They  are  known  as  “lapped- 
furrow  plowing,”  “  flat-furrow  plowing,”  and 
**  plowing  with  the  sod-and-subsoil  plow,”  which 
ought  to  be  called  “  sod-and-(feejp-so4^  plow,”  for 
they  are  not  subsoil  plows  in  any  sense  in 
which  that  term  is  properly  used. 

HOW  TO  PLOW  WITH  LAPPED  PUKROW  SLICES. 

This  operation  is  illustrated  by  figure  1,  in 
whicli  the  slice  is  shown  as  it  would  appear  if 
tiie  plow  were  withdrawn  from  the  furrow.  Tlie 
slices  being  about  12  inches  wide,  7  deep,  and 
lapping  about  3  inches.  8,  8,  8,  are  the  slices ; 
G,  G,  G,  the  grass  sides;  F,  the  old  furrow,  F‘, 
the  new  furrow.  To  turn  lapped  furrow  slices, 
if  the  team  be  horses,  adjust  the  traces  so 
that  the  whiffletrees  will  just  clear  their  heels 
when  the  team  is  turning  round.  Cliange  the 
laud  pin,  dial  clevis,  or  the  index  at  the  hind 
end  of  the  plow  beam,  whichever  may  be  attach¬ 
ed,  until  the  plow  will  run  level  and  true  di¬ 
rectly  after  the  team.  The  first  furrow  will 
necessarily  be  turiwid  flat.  In  turning  the 
second,  drive  the  team  close  to  the  last  furrow 
slice  and  lean  the  plow  handles  to  the  left  until 
the  furrow  slice  will  just  lap  a  little,  say  not 
more  than  an  inch  on  the  one  turned  first.  If 
the  double  whifiletree,  or  “evener”  be  more 
than  thirty  two  inches  from  the  middle  to  the 
point  where  the  whjflietrees  are  attached  to 
it,  it  will  be  better  to  shorten  it,  as  it  is  impos¬ 
sible  to  make  some  plows  run  right  by  adjust¬ 
ing  the  clevis,  if  the  double  whifiletree  is  a  little 
too  long.  If  it  is  so,  and  the  plow  is  adjusted  to 
cut  a  furrow  slice  eleven  or  twelve  inches  wide, 
the  plow  must  move  more  or  less  sidewise, 
which  makes  it  hold  harder  and  draw  harder. 


After  one  round  has  been  plowed,  the  plow 
must  be  adjusted  very  gradually  to  cut  a  little 


Fig.  3. — FLAT  FURROW  SLICES. 


wider  or  narrower,  deeper  or  more  shallow, 
as  may  be  required  to  lap  the  last  turned  fur¬ 
row  slice  about  three  inches  on  the  other.  The 
plow  should  always  be  held  as  erect  as  practi¬ 
cable.  If  the  furrow  slice  be  left  standing  too 
much  on  its  lower  edge,  the  plow  must  be  ad¬ 
justed  to  riui  more  shallow  until  it  will  turn  the 


slice  just  right,  or  it  must  be  made  to  cut  a 
wider  slice  and  of  the  same  depth,  in  order  to 
turn  well.  The  form  of  the  plow  will  always 
determine  which  of  these  ways  may  be  adopted. 
If  the  mold-board  be  of  such  a  form  as  is  not 
calculated  for  turning  deep  furrows,  the  plow 
must  be  adjusted  to  run  more  shallow  and  to 
cut  narrower  until  it  will  turn  the  slices  in  the 
desired  position.  It  is  alwa3'S  essential  when 
plowing  sod  ground  either  with  lapped  or  flat 
furrow  slices,  to  have  the  plow  cut  a  certain 
depth  and  width  in  order  to  turn  well,  which 
must  be  determined  by  the  form  of  the  mold 
board.  The  most  desirable  form  of  a  plow  for 
turning  lapped  furrow  slices  is  wide  at  the  base, 
and  proportionably  narrow  at  the  top  of  the 
mold  board,  with  a  sharp  coulter  or  a  broad 
and  sharp  wing  on  the  point,  for  cutting  the 
furrow  slices  entirely  loose. 

HOW  TO  TURN  FLAT  FURROW  SLICES. 

The  “  flat  furrow  ”  involves  a  complete  inver¬ 
sion  of  the  sod,  as  shown  in  fig.  3,  which  is  par¬ 
ticularly  desirable  on  light  loamy  soils,  where 
very  rapid  decomposition  of  the  sod  is  not  sought. 

For  turning  flat  furrow  slices,  the  plow  should 
be  adjusted  as  for  any  other  plowing,  except 
the  coulter  should  be  set  so  as  to  cut  under  a 
little  instead  of  straight  down ;  and  the  clevis 
must  be  set  so  that  the  plow  will  cut  not  quite 
wide  enough  when  the  handles  are  held  straight. 
In  plowing,  the  handles  must  be  inclined  more 
or  less  to  the  right.  A  plow  having  a  narrow 


Fig.  3.— DOUBLE  FURROW  SLICES. 


base  and  broad  at  the  top  of  the  mold  board, 
is  desirable.  The  width  of  the  furrow  slices 
must  be  greater  in  proportion  to  the  depth,  es¬ 
pecially  when  turned  with  certain  plows.  With 
some  plows  it  is  quite  difficult  to  turn  a  flat  fur¬ 
row,  while  with  others,  either  flat  or  lapped 
slices  may  be  turned  as  described.  W^hen  a 
plow  runs  seven  or  eight  inches  deep  in  order 
to  turn  the  slices  flat,  it  must  cut  from  fourteen 
to  sixteen  inches  wide.  A  skillful  plowman 
will  soon  learn  how  to  adjust  to  turn  a  flat  slice. 
But,  where  it  is  desirable  to  plow  much  land 
with  flat  furrow  slices,  a  plow  should  be  obtain¬ 
ed  that  is  better  adapted  to  turning  flat,  than 
lapped  furrows. 

PLOWING  WITH  THE  SOD-AND-DEEP-SOIL  PLOW. 

These  plows  are  familiarly  known  as  Michi¬ 
gan,  or  Double  plows.  They  include  all  those 
plows  which  have  a  small  plow  attached  to  the 
beam  in  front  of  a  large  one,  and  are  or  should 
be  used  only  in  deep  soil.  The  engravings  (figs. 
3  and  4,)  illustrate  the  working  of  these  plows 
when  cutting  a  slice  about  as  deep  as  wide. 
The  little  plow,  or  “  skimmer,”  as  it  is  appropri¬ 
ately  termed,  cuts  a  slice  of  turf  about  half  the 
width  of  the  furrow  and  turns  it  over  flat,  laying 
two  grass  sides  together  as  in  G,  fig.  4.  Then 


the  big  plow  follows,  turning  this  doubled  up 
sod  into  the  bottom  of  the  furrow  and  burying 
it  (D)  under  the  loam  (E).  Wlien  a  propor¬ 
tionally  wider  furrow  is  plowed,  the  same  effect 


takes  place,  but  with  less  regularity.  If,  how¬ 
ever,  the  slice  cut  is  so  narrow  that  the  skim¬ 
mer  slice  is  turned  off  into  the  furrow,  F,  then 
the  sod  is  buried  flat  in  the  bottom  of  the  fur¬ 
row.  Thus  used  these  plows  are  very  useful  in 
a  sort  of  trench-plowing,  where  it  is  desirable 
to  bury  the  top  soil,  or  a  dressing  of  manure, 
13  inches  or  more  beneath  the  surface.  The 
top  soil  may  be  quite  deeply  and  thoroughly 
worked  without  stirring  the  sods  or  manure. 

Braught  of  Heavy  and  Light  Plows. 

The  momentum  of  a  plow  in  its  passage 
through  the  soil  is  not  an  appreciable  force. 
There  is  no  advantage  arising  from  the  use 
of  a  heavy  plow,  from  its  relieving  the  team 
in  ovei'coming  obstacles.  On  the  contrary, 
there  is  considerable  disadvantage  in  the 
draught  of  a  heavy  ploiv,  as  every  unnecessary 
pound  absorbs  a  certain  proportion  of  the  effec¬ 
tive  muscular  force  of  the  team.  If  a  plow 
weighing  one  hundred  pounds,  which  is  heavier 
than  many  good  plows,  be  sufficiently  strong, 
the  addition  to  its  weight  of  tliirty  or  more 
pounds  will  tax  the  team  to  haul  that  unneces¬ 
sary  weight  from  day  to  dajq  to  no  purpose. 
A  dynamometer  (or  draft-measurer)  is  not  deli¬ 
cate  enough  to  indicate  the  difference  which 
there  actually  is  between  the  draught  of  light 
and  heavy  plows.  If  a  plow  cuts  a  furrow  slice 
one  foot  M'ide,  then  in  plowing  one  acre,  if  it 
weigh  thirty  pounds  more  than  is  necessary,  it 
will  absorb  an  amount  of  the  effective  force  of 
a  team  sufficient  to  move  1,980  lbs.,  a  distance 
of  one  eighth  of  a  mile,  dragging  it  along  on 
the  ground.  These  facts  lead  us  to  discourage 
the  use  of  unnecessarily  heavy  plows,  out  of 
regard  to  the  teams,  if  not  to  the  plowmen. 

.  m  1  miM  @  Bill  - - 

The  Agricultural  Department. 


This  concern,  which  seems  to  be  a  nonde¬ 
script  hybrid  between  a  newspaper  office  and  a 
seed  shop,  still  manifests  its  tenacity  of  life.  It 
still  performs  its  functions  as  they  are  under¬ 
stood  by  the  individual  at  the  head  of  the 
establishment,  and  its  monthly  reports  and 
packages  of  seeds  are  persistently  issued.  The 
“monthly  report”  for  March  is  before  us,  and 
taken  as  a  specimen  of  a  Government  Agricul¬ 
tural  paper,  which  is  printed  out  of  the  taxes 
of  farmers  and  others,  and  sent  “  free, gratis,  for 
nothing”  to  the  friends  of  Members  of  Congress, 
it  is  as  good  as  could  be  expected.  The  spirit 
of  “hifalutin”  still  lives  and  spi  eads  itself  in  an 
article  on  the  grasses,  where  we  have  quotations 
from  the  Bible,  Ilnskin,  and  the  Highland  Agri. 
cultural  Society  of  Scotland,  strung  together  by 
the  finest  kind  of  writing.  In  proof  of  which 
see  the  following  specimen  : 

“What  country  is  more  adorned  tlmn  that 
which  is  covered  with  the  grasses;  the  nlll-sidea 
clothed  in  their  green  vestment,  and  the  more 


14G 


AMKRTCAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


level  meadows  of  mingled  grass  and  flowers, 
givinf  promise  of  the  abundant  hay  harvests, 
whilst  the  wooded  crests  rustle  their  leaves  to 
the  passing  breezes,  and  protect  the  farm  stock, 
with  their  deep  shades,  from  the  mid-day  sul¬ 
triness  ?  And  what  man  fitted  for  country  life 
but  finds  one  of  his  highest  and  purest  pleasure 
wlien,  of  a  Sabbath  day,  he  walks  among  his 
sto(;k  grazing  on  sunny  slopes  covered  with 
green  carpets,  and  adorned  with  the  flowers  of 
May  and  the  yellow  dandelion?  His  cows, 
fragrant  with  the  grasses  they  have  eaten,  re- 
l  K)se  beneath  the  shade  of  the  trees,  and  his 
fleecv  sheep  gather  around  him,  testifying  their 
afl’cetion  for^^him  who  provides  these  pastures 
and  guards  them  from  danger.  Well  indeed 
might  the  angels  reioice,  as,  contemplating  the 
Almighty  power,  they  beheld  the  dark  land 
clothed  in  living  green,  when  the  Creator  com¬ 
manded  it  to  bring  forth  grass,  the  food  ot  the 
nobler  and  more  useful  animals  that  were  to 
folh>w.” 

Now  that  is  what  we  call  “pooty  tasted.” 
This  is  not  a  country  newspaper  nor  a  school¬ 
girl’s  composition  wm  quote,  hut  an  official  do¬ 
cument,  emanating  from  a  Department  of  our 
Government,  printed  on  government  paper  at 
government  e.vpense — or  rather,  reader,  at  your 
expense.  When  some  future  D’Israeli  makes 
up  the  “  Curiosities  of  American  Literature”  he 
must  not  overlook  the  publications  of  the  De¬ 
partment  of  Agriculture.  The  attempt  to  issue 
an  agricultural  paper  at  Washington  being  a 
failure,  its  efforts  at  conducting  a  government 
seed  business  are  not  the  less  so.  While  we 
frankly  admit  that  the  seed  shop  is  a  decided 
benefit  to  those  wdio  have  gardens  and  truck 
patches  around  Washington,  as  the  proprietors 
of  these  can  get  seed  without  cost  to  themselves, 
the  concern  is  to  other  people  a  nuisance.  A 
gentleman  of  our  acquaintance  was  informed  by 
the  Department  that  it  had  sent  him  a  valuable 
collection  of  seeds.  Being  on  the  lookout  for 
novelties,  we  requested  him  to  show  us  the 
parcel  when  it  arrived.  The  “valuable  package 
of  seeds”  came  and  here  is  a  list  of  its  contents : 
Double  Curled  Parsley,  Tuscarora  Corn,  Apple 
Pie  Melon,  Flack’s  Victory  Pea,  Long  Red 
Mangel-Wurzel,  Tuscarora  Corn  (this  being  so 
“valuable”  it  was  duplicated).  Improved  Long 
Orange  Carrot,  Large  White  Lima  Beans, 
White  Turnip  Radish,  Mountain  Sweet  Water¬ 
melon.  Now,  with  the  exception  of  Flack’s 
Victory  Pea — which  by  the  way  is  the  wrong 
name — there  is  not  a  thing  which  may  not  be 
bought  at  any  country  store,  out  of  the  most 
meagre  assortment  of  Shaker  garden  seeds. 
This  is  a  fair  specimen  of  what  the  Department 
does  in  the  seed  business.  The  Department 
knows  that  it  does  not  meet  the  expectations  of 
the  agricultural  community,  and  it  tries  to  make 
capital  among  agriculturists  by  this  kind  of 
seed  distribution.  Knowing  the  influence  of  the 
local  agricultural  societies,  the  Department 
makes  them  the  special  recipients  of  these  “valu¬ 
able  seeds.”  We  have  in  mind  the  experience 
of  a  friend,  who  was  Secretary  of  one  of  these 
societies,  in  one  of  our  best  agricultural  com¬ 
munities.  From  his  official  position,  our  friend 
■was  inundated  with  these  “  valuable  seeds”  by 
the  wheelbarrow  load,  and  finding  that  he  could 
not  get  the  members  of  the  society  to  take  the 
old  stuff  from  that  Philadelphia  Seed  store  off 
his  hands,  he  had  to  take  some  trouble  to  get  rid 
of  it.  A  place  was  hii'ed  in  a  store  in  a  neigh¬ 
boring  town  and  stocked  with  these  “  valuable 
seeds”  which  were  sold  for  the  benefit  of  the 
society,  while  the  grain  seeds  he  used  to  feed 
his  chickens,  and  very  fat  chickens  he  made  at 
Uncle  Sam’s  expense.  A  system  so  useless,  so 
stupid,  and  so  injurious  to  the  seed  dealers  of 
the  country  could  not  be  persisted  in,  by  any 


one  but  the  present  head  of  the  Department. 
We  can  scarcely  take  up  an  agricultural  paper 
without  finding  expressions  of  disapprobation 
in  regard  to  the  mismanagement  of  its  affairs. 
The  Prairie  Farmer,  whose  editor  has  recently 
passed  some  time  at  the  Capital,  says ;  “Not 
fully  knowing  the  facts  of  the  case,  and  wishing 
to  do  no  harm  from  over-zeal,  we  have  waited 
until  now  for  our  say,  and  after  a  week  spent 
in  Washington,  in  free  intercourse  with  many 
who  are  familiar  with  the  institution,  among 
them  many  members  of  Congress  (who  would 
demand  the  removal  of  the  Commissioner,  if 
they  thought  such  a  demand  would  avail  any¬ 
thing),  and  from  personal  observations,  we  have 
been  compelled  to  the  conclusion  that  the  De¬ 
partment  can  and  ought  to  have  a  more  com¬ 
petent  Commissioner,  and  one  more  acceptable 
to  the  agricultural  people  of  the  country.”  The 
agricultural  press  throughout  the  country  has 
expressed  the  wish  of  the  agricultural  people 
that  this  thing  shall  be  reformed  altogether. 
Eminent  and  scientific  men  and  influential  mem¬ 
bers  of  Congress  are  with  the  agricultural  com¬ 
munity  in  this  matter,  and  we  doubt  not  that 
when  the  weightier  national  matters  have  ceased 
to  occupy  the  attention  of  the  Executive  that  he 
will  give  heed  to  their  remonstrances,  and  a 
person  who  is  not  suited  to  the  position  w^ill  be 
no  longer  kept  as  an  encumbrance  on  the  work¬ 
ing  of  the  Department.  Should  all  these  fail  it 
only  remains  for  the  people  to  take  the  mat¬ 
ter  in  hand  and  demand  of  their  represen¬ 
tatives  that  the  Department  shall  have  no 
funds  to  squander,  or  that  it  be  abolished. 
Congress  has  given  money  enough  and  the 
Depm-tment  has  an  efficient  corps  of  subordi¬ 
nates,  all  that  is  needed  is  a  head. 

- mm  O  mm  I  - 

How  to  Plant  Potatoes. 


Potatoes  require  different  management  on 
different  soils.  If  planted  as  deeply  on  heavy 
soils  as  on  those  light  or  sandy  soils  where  pota¬ 
toes  are  often  made  the  staple  crop,  the  yield 
would  not  be  so  great,  and  much  more  labor 
would  be  required  to  dig  them.  When  potatoes 
are  planted  on  heavy  soils  in  sod,  it  is  a  good 
way  to  plow  the  ground  with  lapped  furrow 
slices,  and  to  drop  the  sets  in  the  channels 
formed  by  the  lapping  of  one  slice  on  another, 
which  will  be  equivalent  to  planting  the  pota¬ 
toes  2  or  3  inches  deep.  The  plowing  must  be 
performed  in  a  workmanlike  manner,  with 
straight  furrows,  6  or  7  inches  deep.  This  will 
require  a  good  plow  with  a  sharp  point,  a  sharp 
and  well-adjusted  coulter,  and  a  good  plowman. 
With  a  reversible  mold  board  plow,  one  should 
begin  at  the  side  of  the  field  and  plow  back 
and  forth  until  it  is  finished.  With  a  common 
plow  it  is  best  to  strike  out  lands  six  or  eight 
rods  wide,  to  have  few  dead  furrows,  leaving 
the  headland  about  ten  or  twelve  feet  wide. 

If  it  be  desirable  to  have  the  rows  30  inches 
apart,  which  is  far  enough  for  potatoes,  adjust 
the  plow  to  cut  a  furrow  slice  ten  inches  wide 
and  five  or  six  inches  deep.  This  size  of  furi'ow 
slice  wdll  be  of  good  proportion  to  turn  well. 
The  ground  should  not  be  harrowed  after  plow¬ 
ing.  If  it  be  desirable  to  have  the  rows  two 
ways,  the  ground  may  be  marked  across  the 
furrows  with  a  light  horse-marker,  or  with  a 
log  chain.  A  skillful  workman  will  drop  them 
in  straight  rows  without  a  mark,  walking  across 
the  furrows.  When  the  ground  is  not  in  sod, 
plow  with  narrow  furrow  slices,  harrow,  roll  if 
there  be  lumps,  mark  out  with  a  small  plow, 
and  drop  the  sets  as  directed  for  sod  ground. 


Whenever  the  place  for  a  hill  is  not  deep  enough, 
the  man  who  drops  the  sets  may  press  each 
one  deeper  into  the  soil  with  his  foot.  When 
the  drills  are  not  too  deep  it  is  well  to  al- 
■wa3’'S  step  on  the  sets  as  they  are  dropped. 

How  to  Cover  Them. — When  the  sets  are  drop¬ 
ped  as  directed,  they  may  be  covered  expedi¬ 
tiously  with  hand  hoes.  But  the  covering  may 
be  done  very  much  faster  and  easier  with  a 
horse  and  rude  contrivance  made  in  the  follow¬ 
ing  manner:  Fasten  a  chain  to  each  end  of  a 
piece  of  plank  about  four  feet  long  and  eight 
or  ten  inches  wide;  hitch  a  horse  one  side  of 
the  middle  of  the  chain,  and  drive  him  between 
two  rows,  drawing  the  plank  sidewise  after 
him,  with  a  man  standing  on  it.  This  will  cov¬ 
er  two  rows  at  a  time  verj'  well.  Where  the 
ground  is  moderately  mellow,  and  not  stony 
we  sometimes  turn  a  harrow  upside  down,  using 
two  horses  to  cover  three  rows  at  once.  The 
crotch  of  a  tree  drawn  either  end  foremost, 
makes  an  excellent  implement  for  covering  pota¬ 
toes,  as  it  may  be  made  large  enough  to  cover 
four  rows  at  once,  if  the  soil  is  not  too  hard. 
But  on  heavy  sod  ground  just  plowed,  the  plank 
above  described  will  be  found  most  effective. 

- -  I  li^  ^ 

Eelative  Profits  of  Hog  and  Cattle  Eaising. 

The  constant  sale  off  the  farm  of  animals 
which  were  grown  upon  it  is  one  of  the  most 
surely  and  thoroughly  exhausting  practices, 
for  farmers  thus  remove  just  those  elements  of 
fertility  most  readily  exhausted  and  most  ex¬ 
pensive  to  replace.  A  correspondent,  “J.  S.  B.,” 
of  M’Henry  Count}’’,  Ind.,  wu'ites  in  regard  to 
the  so-called  “hogging”  system  of  the  West, 
as  follows  below.  At  the  East  hogs  occupy  a 
very  different  position,  being  emphatically  ma¬ 
nure  makers,  and  converting  more  inert  vege¬ 
table  matter  into  good  manure,  than  any  other 
kind  of  stock. 

“  It  appeals  to  me  that  the  comparative  ad¬ 
vantages  of  hog-raising  and  cattle  raising  are 
not  fully  understood,  out  here  in  the  West.  Our 
farmers  are  looking  to  immediate  results — to  the 
amount  of  money  put  into  their  pockets,  rather 
than  to  the  condition  of  their  fiirms,  and  the  im¬ 
provement  of  their  lands.  My  observation  is, 
that  although  hog-raising  puts  money  into 
the  pocket  of  the  farmer  for  the  present,  it  per¬ 
manently  damages  him  more  than  enough  to 
cover  all  his  present  profits.  Dr.  Franklin’s 
maxim,  that  continual  taking  out  and  never 
putting  in  will  soon  find  the  bottom  of  the  meal 
tub,  is  applicable  to  the  land,  which  must  nec¬ 
essarily  be  run  down  by  continual  cropping, 
without  making  proper  returns.  The  hog  con¬ 
sumes  next  to  none  of  the  rough  feed  of  the 
farm;  must  have  the  grain,  the  corn  in  the 
ear;  he  eats  neither  the  stalks  of  the  corn,  the 
straw  of  the  wheat,  nor  hay,  but  he  must  have 
the  best  of  every  thing.  A  farmer  in  this  vicin¬ 
ity,  who  is  a  great  hog-raiser,  when  asked  by  a 
neighbor  how  he  always  had  such  good  hogs, 
replied  that  he  always  fed  his  hogs  with  a  “corn 
shovel'' — that  is,  he  gave  them  plenty  of  grain. 
Another  who  is  equally  famous  for  fine  horses 
and  cattle,  gave  as  the  reason  of  his  success, 
that  he  always  rubbed  his  horses  off  in  the 
morning  with  locks  of  hay  left  in  their  man¬ 
gers.  Generous  feeding  in  both  cases.  The 
cattle  and  the  horses  consume  the  rougli  mate¬ 
rial  raised  upon  the  farm,  converting  it  into  ma¬ 
nure  to  be  returned  to  replenish  the  exhausted 
soil,  while  the  hogs,  as  treated  in  the  West,  make 
little  or  no  manure,  and  consume  a  greater  and 
more  important  and  valuable  part  of  the  crops 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


147 


Thus  it  is  that  our  western  farms  are  fast  being 
depleted,  losing  all  of  their  virgin  richness  by 
our  persistent  “  hogging.”  The  land  of  the 
above  mentioned  hog-breeder,  is  a  fit  illustra¬ 
tion  of  this.  Upon  three  farms  he  owns,  there 
is  but  one  gate  and  not  a  single  pair  of  bars. 
His  land  is  exhausted  so  it  will  not  bring  half 
a  crop  of  corn.  Year  after  year  the  same  fields 
have  been  worn,  and  now  they  look  white  and 
barren;  yet  he  is  said  to  make  money.  His 
neighbor,  the  cattle  breeder,  can  at  any  time  get 
double  the  price  for  his  land,  simply  because  he 
has  not  “  hogged”  his  farm.  Is  not  the  conclu¬ 
sion  just  that  hog-raising,  although  it  may  bring 
present  gain,  will  result  in  permanent  injury, 
and  that  the  western  farmer  through  sheer  ex¬ 
haustion  of  his  lands,  will  be  compelled  to  re¬ 
sort  to  cattle  and  sheep  raising  in  imitation  of 
his  eastern  neighbors,  to  recuperate  the  exhaust¬ 
ed  energies  of  his  naturally  fertile  soil  ?” 

[Note. — The  least  exhausting  system  of  farming 
is,  buying  animals  which  have  their  growth  and 
fattening  them  for  market.  The  most  exhaust¬ 
ing  is  selling  grain  and  hay,  without  buying  fer¬ 
tilizers.  “  Hogging,”  as  practised  in  many  parts 
of  the  West,  approaches  very  nearly  to  this  lat¬ 
ter  course ;  and  even  were  the  manure  all  saved 
and  made  the  most  of,  the  draught  upon  the 
phosphates  of  the  soil  would  be  immense.] 

■  m  I  I  i«> 

Horses  at  Pasture. 


Every  horse  in  the  country  ought,  if  possible, 
to  have  at  least  a  few  weeks  run  in  the  pasture. 
It  will  do  for  him  what  no  kind  of  medicine  or 
nursing  can  do  as  well.  It  will  improve  his 
hoofs,  his  hair  and  skin,  his  wind,  digestion, 
and  blood,  will  take  out  stiffness  and  lameness, 
and  put  on  flesh,  and  infuse  new  life  generally. 

Before  turning  horses  out,  it  is  well  to  accus¬ 
tom  them  gradually  to  that  kind  of  food,  by  cut¬ 
ting  a  little  grass  for  them  each  day,  or  allowing 
them  to  “  bait  ”  for  an  hour  or  so  daily  in  the 
back-yard.  And  when  let  out,  they  should  not 
have  “  flush”  feed  at  first,  as  they  will  be  likely 
to  over-eat,  and  injure  themselves  both  in  their 
looks  and  their  wind.  The  best  grass  for 
a  horse  pasture  is  a  mixture  of  Timothy, 
Blue  grass,  and  Red  Top.  Horses  relish  this 
feed  better  w’hen  it  is  moderately  short.  When 
they  are  to  be  turned  out  for  any  length  of 
time,  and  not  to  be  used  much  in  the  mean¬ 
while,  they  should  have  on  only  a  light  pair  of 
shoes.  This  will  allow  the  hoofs  to  come  in 
close  contact  with  the  soft  earth,  and  will  pre¬ 
vent  contraction.  Where  horses  can  not  enjoy 
pasturage,  they  should  have  fresh  cut  grass  as 
often  as  convenient,  and  should  have  their  stall 
floors  covered  with  tan  bark,  or  better,  have 
the  planks  taken  up  and  clay  floors  laid. 


Management  of  Working  Oxen. 

It  is  not  so  much  hard  labor  that  heats  oxen 
end  makes  them  loll  in  warm  weather,  as  the 
ill  treatment  of  rough  and  abusive  drivers. 
Treat  them  with  gentleness  when  at  work ;  feed 
them  well  and  regularly  three  times  a  day,  with 
cut  hay  and  straw  wet  with  water,  sprinkled 
with  oat  and  Indian  corn  meal,  at  least  twelve 
quarts,  besides  some  roots  daily ;  let  them  have 
clean  water  as  often  as  they  are  fed,  and  not 
require  them  to  drink  that  which  is  impure, 
or  stagnant ;  give  them  at  least  two  hours  after 
feeding  to  chew  the  cud  and  rest,  and  they  will 
perform  a  vast  amount  of  hard  work,  and  in¬ 
crease  in  flesh  at  the  same  time,  and  will  usu¬ 
ally  he  found  to  be  more  convenient  for  many 


purposes  than  horses.  Let  it  be  reiterated  that 
it  is  not  the  hard  labor  that  oxen  perform  that 
exhausts  their  energies.  Oxen  were  made  for 
hard  service:  and  if  treated  kindly  and  care¬ 
fully,  they  will  labor  hard  every  day,  and  still 
grow  fat.  But  when  fed  a  stinted  allowance  of 
poor  hay  and  meal,  worried  and  abused  by  a 
bawling,  ill-natured  driver,  who  incessantly  ap¬ 
plies  the  lash  or  goad,  and  dragged  out  by 
carrying  on  their  necks  a  huge  cart  tongue, 
from  morning  till  night,  their  strength  fails,  and 
sensible  people  are  lead  to  conclude  that  they 
cannot  endure  the  heat  like  a  horse. 

- - —  —aw.  — - - 

Eeclaiming  Bog  land..... II. 

PRACTIOAI.  NOTES  BT  “  HEEMON.” 


If  the  operations  recommended  in  a  previous 
number  have  been  carried  out,  the  subduing 
effects  of  the  buckwheat  crop,  together  with  the 
atmospheric  influence  upon  the  upturned  soil, 
will  have  produced  a  great  change  in  the  fria¬ 
bility  of  it,  by  the  time  the  crop  is  ready  to  har¬ 
vest.  A  piece  of  swamp  treated  in  this  manner 
by  me  some  years  since,  was  planted  the  next 
spring  with  early  potatoes,  and  the  crop  dug  in 
time  to  sow  Timothy  and  flat  turnips — of  the 
former  six  quarts,  of  the  latter  one  gill  to  the 
acre — put  in  about  the  10th  of  August.  The 
ground  being  in  fine  condition,  both  grew  vig¬ 
orously,  and  presented  from  the  road  a  beauti¬ 
ful  and  rather  uncommon  appearance,  and  elic¬ 
ited  numerous  inquiries  respecting  what  was 
sown.  The  result  was,  there  grew  a  fine  crop 
of  very  sweet  tender  turnips,  which,  at  pul¬ 
ling,  appeared  to  be  doing  damage  to  the  grass, 
but  the  next  spring  those  places  all  filled  in, 
leaving  no  vacancies  to  show  where  the  turnips 
grew,  and  a  stouter  piece  of  Timothy  I  never  saw. 

Another  piece  of  land  treated  as  before,  was 
planted  with  late  potatoes,  yielding  finely  but 
rotting  somewhat ;  followed  the  next  year  with 
carrots  in  drills  about  twenty  inches  apart,  and 
the  mold  pressed  upon  the  seed  by  running  a 
wheelbarrow  lengthwise  over  each  row,  so  that 
the  seed  sprouted  quickly  and  uniformly.  Before 
the  plants  made  their  appearance,  a  liberal  dres¬ 
sing  of  ashes  was  sown  broadcast  In  the  after 
treatment  I  followed  the  American  Agriculturist, 
and  obtained  a  yield  at  the  rate  of  one  thousand 
and  fifty  bushels  per  acre.  They  were  pulled 
with  less  than  half  the  labor  required  on  upland. 

An  experiment  was  tried,  viz. :  drawing  the 
logs  when  cut,  and  heaping  them  to  rot  on  a 
knoll,  in  place  of  burning  them  and  spreading 
the  ashes  over  the  mucky  soil.  The  seeding 
stood  much  better  where  the  ashes  were  spread, 
and  the  yield  of  hay  was  fully  double. 

The  tendency  of  Timothy  grass  on  all  peaty 
lands,  so  far  as  I  am  acquainted,  is  to  run  out 
after  the  third  year,  but  where  the  bank  of 
earth  scraped  from  the  open  ditches  contained 
gravel,  the  grass  has  stood  well  for  ten  years. 
This  suggested  an  experiment  I  am  now  watch¬ 
ing  :  Immediately  after  haying  in  1863,  I  had 
about  two  acres  of  this  run-out  meadow  hand¬ 
somely  turned  over,  and  shortly  after  harrowed 
smooth ;  then  before  the  fall  rains  set  in,  I 
covered  it  evenly,  with  850  loads  of  gravel  from 
an  adjacent  knoll,  plowed  it  before  winter  and 
left,  it  in  rough  furrows.  As  soon  as  the 
ground  dried  a  little  in  the  spring  (April  6th), 
I  sowed  with  barley  and  haiTOwed  well.  The 
expense  of  the  job  was  $85.00,  and  as  the  crop 
of  barley  was  sold  at  $2.20  per  bushel  in  Sept., 
it  more  than  paid.  Now  the  land  is  sowed  with 
rye  and  seeded  to  Timothy,  both  of  which  look 
very  finely.  As  a  rule,  hpwever,  I  prefer  sowing 


the  grass  seed  alone  on  such  land  and  doing  it 
in  August,  when  a  good  crop  of  hay  may  be 
looked  for  the  next  season.” 

- - - - - 

Washing  Sheep 

It  may  be  for  the  interests  of  dealers  in  wool, 
and  manufacturers,  to  have  sheep  washed  pre¬ 
vious  to  shearing.  But  the  welfare  of  the  flocks 
and  the  interests  of  the  owners  of  valuable 
sheep,  which  are  considerations  of  paramount 
importance  to  everything  else,  are  promoted  by 
not  washing.  The  farmers’  only  reason  for 
washing  sheep  is,  that,  if  the  wool  be  thoroughly 
washed,  a  man  can  shear  a  sheep  sooner  than  if 
it  were  not  washed.  Sheep  hate  wet  in  every 
form.  They  dislike  wet  pastures,  wet  yards, 
leaky  sheds,  and,  more  than  all  else,  wet  fleeces. 
When  they  are  washed,  the  water  and  the 
weather  are  frequently  quite  cold,  and  as  they 
often  become  uncomfortably  warm  while  being 
driven  to  the  water,  and  are  plunged  immedi¬ 
ately  into  it,  and  kept  there  until  quite  chilled 
through ;  they  are  quite  liable  to  contract 
more  or  less  cold,  which  will  many  times  super¬ 
induce  some  other  disease.  This  is  particularly 
true  if  the  weather  continue  wet  and  cold  for 
several  successive  days  after  washing.  This  is 
the  great  argument  against  the  practice  of 
washing  sheep  in  our  changeable  climate. 
Every  practice  that  endangers  the  health  of 
sheep  ought,  if  possible,  to  be  abandoned,  and 
not  be  made  subservient  to  ordinary  pecuniary 
considerations. 

Another  thing  against  washing  sheep  is,  that 
cleansing  of  wool  in  this  manner  is  often 
of  little  real  advantage,  and  frequently  of  none 
at  all,  as  it  often  becomes  quite  as  dirty  be¬ 
fore  shearing,  as  it  was  before  the  sheep  were 
washed.  This  is  particularly  true  when  sheep 
are  not  kept  in  clean  pastures  after  they  have 
been  washed.  Many  times  it  is  quite  imprac¬ 
ticable  to  confine  every  flock  in  pastures  where 
they  cannot  find  some  dirty  places  to  roll  in. 
Sometimes  shearers  cannot  be  obtained  at  the 
desired  time,  or  the  weather  is  too  unfavorable 
to  allow  the  wool  to  dry  sufliciently  to  be 
sheared,  and  sometimes  the  labors  of  the  field 
are  so  urgent  that  shearing  must  be  deferred  for 
a  number  of  days.  All  these  considerations  are 
in  favor  of  abandoning  entirely  the  practice  of 
washing  sheep.  Admitting  that  it  costs  more 
per  head  for  shearing  unwashed  sheep,  the  ex¬ 
pense  of  washing  will  exceed  the  extra  cost  for 
shearing  without  washing.  Therefore,  these 
two  items  will  balance  each  other.  Then,  when 
the  difference  between  the  prices  of  unwashed 
and  washed  wool,  which  is  not  definite,  even 
when  the  absurd  one-third  rate  is  insisted  upon 
by  buyers,  is  contrasted  with  the  injury  which 
may  follow  washing  valuable  sheep,  it  is  safe 
to  assume  that  it  is  better  to  shear  them  un¬ 
washed.  Moreover,  when  flocks  from  various 
parts  of  the  country  are  driven  to  the  same 
washing-place,  there  is  great  danger  that  sound 
and  healthy  flocks  will  come  in  contact  with 
the  contagion  of  diseased  sheep  that  have  been 
in  the  pens  to  be  washed.  Many  an  excellent 
flock  of  sheep,  which  has  been  guarded  with 
vigilance  by  its  proprietor,  has  been  well  nigh 
ruined,  simply  by  being  yarded  where  sheep 
having  the  foot-rot  had  recently  been  confined. 
What  is  needed  at  the  present  time  is,  an  un¬ 
derstanding  between  wool  growers  that  all  will 
shear  their  sheep  without  washing;  then  the 
practice  will  soon  be  abandoned,  as  neither  pro¬ 
motive  of  the  welfare  of  the  sheep  nor  of  the  in¬ 
terests  of  the  shepherds  nor  of  manufactvjrers. 


148 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


How  to  Drop  Potatoes. 


For  the  purpose  of  facilitating  the  hard  labor 
required  in  cariying  and  dropping  potatoes, 
■\ve  have  prepared  the  accompanying  illustra¬ 
tion  of  a  man  in  the  act  of  dropping  them.  A 
wide  leather  strap,  or  what  is  better,  a  strip  of 
M'ebbing,  with  a  hook  attached  to  each  end,  is 
thrown  over  the  neck,  and  the  basket  of  pota¬ 
toes  hung  on  the  hooks.  A  basket  or  pail  that 
will  hold  half  a  bushel  is  suOiciently  large  to 
contain  as  many  as  a  laborer  will  desire  to  carry 
at  once.  The  top  of  the  basket  should  be  about 
even  with  one’s  lower  ribs.  When  a  basket  is 
carried  in  this  manner,  both  hands  are  free  to 
be  used  in  dropping  a  row  on  each  side,  which 
can  be  done  about  as  quickly  as  one  row  when 
tlie  basket  is  carried  on  one  arm  according  to 
the  usual  custom.  By  this  manner  of  carrying 
a  basket  all  the  severe  fatigue  of  the  arm  and 
shoulder  is  avoided,  and  a  laborer  can  always 
walk  erect,  Avhich  is  much  easier  than  to  sup¬ 
port  a  weight  on  one  side.  When  potatoes 
bound  from  their  proper  places  they  may  either 
he  put  in  place  with  the  foot  of  the  man  who 
drops  them,  or  with  the  hoe  when  covering. 
- - - — - - - 

Deep  and  Shallow  Planting. 

Some  good  farmers  advocate  deep  planting 
by  far  too  indiscriminately,  and  they  refer  to 
the  result  of  well-conducted  experiments  to 
prove  that  it  is  much  better  than  shallow  plant¬ 
ing.  On  the  contrary,  other  men  will  show  by 
experiments  conducted  with  great  care  and  im¬ 
partiality,  that  very  shallow  planting  is  best,  and 
the  success  of  their  crops  appears  to  depend 
upon  it.  The  theory  and  practice  of  the  latter 
is  quite  as  correct  as  the  former,  notwithstand¬ 
ing  they  are  directly  opposed  to  each  other. 
But  let  those  farmers  change  places,  and  they 
will  change  views  with  their  farms,  and  still  be  as 
opposed  to  each  other  as  before,  yet  both  be 
right.  When  the  soil  is  friable,  sandy,  or  very 
light,  it  is  best  to  plant  seeds  deep,  especially  in 
dry  weather,  unless  they  are  so  small  that 
tliey  would  not  be  able  to  reach  the  surface. 
This  applies  particularly  to  warm,  light,  sandy, 
gravelly  loams,  which  dry  out  readily  after 
heavy  rains.  If  Indian  corn,  potatoes,  and 
peas  be  planted  from  four  to  six  inches  deep, 
where  the  soil  is  pulverized  to  a  good  depth, 
the  roots  being  deep  in  the  ground  will  absorb 
moisture  while  the  surface  is  quite  dry.  The 
young  plants  find  but  little  difficulty  in  coming 
up  through  light  porous  soils.  But  where  there 


is  an  excess  of  water  in  a  heavy  soil,  if  seeds 
be  planted  deep,  it  is  frequently  impossible  for 
the  little  plants  to  force  their  way  to  the  surface. 
This  is  especially  true  of  those  plants  of  which 
the  cotyledons  are  carried  up  to  the  surface 
of  the  soil,  as  beans,  cucumbers,  flax,  and 
many  other  plants.  On  many  light,  mellow 
soils  there  is  little  danger  of  covering  potatoes, 
p^eas,  corn  and  other  cereals  too  deeply ;  while 
if  covered  shallow,  unless  the  season  be  favora¬ 
ble,  and  not  too  dry,  the  results  will  be  less  satis¬ 
factory.  On  the  contrary,  if  such  seed  be  cov¬ 
ered  deeply  in  heavy  soils  where  a  crust  often 
forms  soon  after  a  heavy  rain,  many  of  them 
could  never  force  a  passage  to  the  surface.  For 
this  reason,  it  is  important  on  heavy  soils  to 
cover  the  seed  shallow,  and  still  have  it  deep 
enough  to  germinate. 

- - -  — - - - 

Planting  Large  and  Small  Potatoes. 


The  writer  has  planted  small  potatoes,  from 
half  an  inch  to  an  inch  in  diameter,  which  yield¬ 
ed  apparently  as  well  as  large  ones  for  only  one 
season.  He  also  planted  small  tubers  of  the  size 
mentioned,  for  five  successive  years,  selecting 
the  smallest  each  year ;  and  the  fifth  crop  was 
not  worth  digging,  as  the  greater  proportion 
consisted  of  tubers  no  larger  than  those  planted ; 
many  were  no  larger  than  marrowflvt  peas. 
The  conclusion  was  that  small  potatoes  may  be 
used  for  seed  a  single  season,  with  good  results ; 
but,  if  planted  for  sev¬ 
eral  years  in  succes¬ 
sion,  they  will  degen¬ 
erate  even  with  good 
cultivation.  On  the 
contrary,  he  has  prac¬ 
ticed  cutting  tubers 
of  the  most  desirable 
form  and  size  into 
small  pieces,  with  one 
eye  on  each  piece, 
with  two  or  three 
pieces  in  each  hill,  or 
if  in  drills,  one  piece 
in  a  place,  about  six 
or  eight  inches  apart; 
and  the  result  has 
been  invariably  a 
good  yield  of  large 
tubers,  with  no  signs 
ofdegenerac}''.  When 
seed  was  scarce,  the 
tubers  were  always 
cut  as  shown  in  the 
accompanying  illustration :  Beginning  at  the 
root  end,  and  cutting  off  a  chip  with  one  eye, 
then,  turning  the  tuber,  others  were  cut  off 
until  about  half  of  it  was  used.  These  were 
kept  by  themselves,  and  also  those  of  the  seed 
end,  and  each  kind  planted  separately.  The  sets 
near  the  seed  end  will  produce  new  potatoes  at 
least  six  or  eight  days,  some  say  a  fortnight,  ear¬ 
lier  than  the  sets  from  the  root  end.  If  the  eyes 
are  very  close  together,  it  will  be  better  to  leave 
two  on  a  piece  as  large  as  the  first  joint  of  a 
man’s  finger,  than  to  cut  the  pieces  too  small. 

This  is  the  most  economical  mode  of  cutting 
seed  tubers;  and  the  writer  has  never  been  able 
to  discover  any  difference  in  the  size  of  the  new 
crop,  when  the  seed  was  cut  in  this  way,  or 
when  cut  into  quartern,  or  when  planted  whole. 
More  good  potatoes  can  be  raised  from  a  bushel 
of  tubers  by  cutting  them  as  shown  by  the  illus¬ 
tration  and  planting  in  drills  about  30  inches 
apart,  and  eight  inches  apart  in  the  drills,  than 
in  any  other  manner.  When  planted  in  tjus 


MANNER  OP  CUTTING. 


way,  a  little  more  labor  will  be  required  to  hoe 
them,  unless  the  ground  is  free  from  weeds. 
This  manner  of  cutting  seed  potatoes  is  not  re¬ 
commended  as  the  best  way  of  preparing  tubers 
for  planting.  The  design  is  simply  to  show  how 
they  may  be  cut  economically,  with  good  results. 
Any  one  can  try  the  experiment  of  planting  a 
few  whole  potatoes,  a  few  others  cut  into  four 
equal  parts  directly  through  the  tubers  from 
one  end  to  the  other,  and  an  equal  number  chip¬ 
ped  off  as  shown  by  the  illustration,  without 
any  apprehensions  that  the  new  potatoes  will 
not  be  as  good  as  if  the  sets  were  larger.  The 
only  good  objection  to  cutting  seed  so  small  is,  the 
plants  do  not  grow  as  luxuriantly  when  small, 
especially  when  the  weather  is  cold  and  wet,  as 
if  the  sets  were  larger.  The  substance  in  a 
small  piece  is  soon  exhausted,  after  which  the 
young  plant  must  draw  its  nourishment  from 
the  soil  and  atmosphere ;  whereas,  if  the  sets  be 
larger,  the  substance  in  them  furnishes  the  best 
kind  of  nourishment  for  promoting  the  growth 
of  the  young  plants.  Probably  tlie  best  and 
safest  way  is,  to  plant  uncut  those  tubers  as 
large  as  hen’s  eggs  of  an  ordinary  size;  and  to 
cut  larger  ones  into  pieces  about  the  size  of  eggs. 

- -  I  - 

Renovating'  Sterile  Soils. 


In  many  parts  of  the  country  soils  are  found 
naturally  so  sterile,  that  it  is  difficult  to  grow 
even  a  small  crop  of  any  kind  of  grain  or  grass. 
When  there  are  no  beds  of  muck  or  peat  with¬ 
in  convenient  hauling  distance,  and  no  foreign 
manure  is  used,  it  is  a  tedious  task  to  render 
such  a  soil  even  moderately  productive.  Still, 
it  can  often  be  done  with  no  other  fertilizing 
material  than  the  farm  affords.  Take  for  exam¬ 
ple,  a  shallow',  calcareous,  or  silicious  loam,  in 
which  there  is  little  or  no  humus  or  vegeta¬ 
ble  mold,  and  which  has  never  produced  much 
except  weeds.  Soils  of  this  description  can  sel¬ 
dom  be  benefited  by  underdraining,  because  the 
subsoil  is  usually  so  porous  that  the  large 
amount  of  water  falling  in  the  spring  and  autumn 
leaches  through  the  soil  in  a  short  time.  If 
there  is  surface  water  in  certain  places,  of  course 
the  first  step  will  be  to  render  it  dry  by  thorough 
draining.  The  next  operation  will  be  to  obtain 
a  little  mold,  or  humus,  of  which  such  soils  are 
destitute.  If  barn-yard  manure,  mellow  earth 
from  the  highways,  or  pond  beds  can  be  obtain¬ 
ed,  a  thin  layer  over  the  suiface  wull  enable  a 
farmer  to  bring  a  sterile  soil  into  a  good  state  ol 
productiveness  in  a  few'  3'ears.  Where  nothing 
of  the  kind  is  at  hand,  proceed  as  follows : 

Plow'  in  autumn  if  possible,  not  more  than  six 
inches  deep,  and  plow  again  in  the  spring  no 
deeper  than  before,  as  soon  as  the  frost  is  out 
and  it  is  sufficient!}'  dry.  The  surface  soil  is 
superior  to  that  which  is  seven  or  eight  inches 
below,  even  wliere  it  is  very  sterile;  and  it  is 
important  to  keep  the  best  on  the  surface.  As 
soon  as  the  ground  is  sufficiently  warm  to  plant 
Indian  corn,  plow  again  in  narrow  furrow 
slices,  and  sow  broadcast,  or  drill  in,  three  and  a 
half  or  four  bushels  of  good  grain  per  acre.  It 
is  better  to  di  ill  in  two  bushels  per  acre  each 
way,  than  to  sow'  it  broadcast,  as  it  will  be  cov¬ 
ered  of  a  more  uniform  depth,  and  vill  grow 
more  uniformly.  Now,  sow  three  or  four  bush¬ 
els  of  gypsum  per  acre,  and  the  more  w'ood 
ashes  the  better,  even  to  one  hundred  bushels 
per  acre.  If  the  work  be  well  done,  and  the 
soil  unusually  sterile,  all  that  can  be  expected 
will  be  a  growth  of  green  corn,  from  one  to  two 
feet  high.  As  soon  as  the  tassels  have  appeared 
which  will  be  in  about  seventy  days,  plow  it  un 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


149 


der,  sow  five  to  ten  bushels  of  quick  lime, 
and  harrow  it  in ;  then  drill  in  another  four  bush¬ 
els  of  corn  per  acre  to  plow  under  just  before 
frost.  By  this  means  two  coats  of  green  manure 
will  be  plowed  under,  which  will  furnish  more 
humus,  or  vegetable  mold,  than  any  other  plants 
will  supply  in  one  season.  The  spring  follow¬ 
ing,  plow  with  narrow  furrow  slices,  as  soon  as 
the  soil  is  dry,  but  no  deeper  than  usual,  sow 
five  or  eight  bushels  of  quick  lime  per  acre, 
harrow  it  in,  and  drill  in  one  bushel  of  spring 
rve  per  acre.  Then  sow  eight  pounds  of  Early 
Red  Clover  seed  and  half  a  bushel,  or  seven 
pounds,  of  Orchard  Grass  seed  per  acre.  If  the 
ground  be  at  all  lumpy,  roll  it  before  sowing 
the  grass  seed.  As  soon  as  the  rye  has  come 
np,  sow  two  or  three  bushels  of  gypsum  per 
acre.  The  chief  object  of  the  rye  is  to  shade 
the  young  grass,  should  there  be  much  hot 
weather.  As  soon  as  the  rye  begins  to  head, 
mow  it  all  off  with  grass  scythes,  a  foot  or  more 
high,  letting  it  remain  wdiere  it  falls.  If  the 
rye  be  allowed  to  go  to  seed  it  will  exhaust  the 
fertility  of  the  soil.  Keep  all  stock  olF  the  grass 
that  it  may  become  well  rooted.  Should  it  at¬ 
tain  a  large  growth  by  autumn,  it  may  be  fed 
off  in  part ;  but  in  general  it  is  best  not  to  do  so. 

The  next  spring  sow  three  or  four  bushels  of 
gypsum  per  acre,  and  all  the  wood  ashes  leached 
or  unleached  that  can  be  obtained,  unless  pre¬ 
viously  applied.  If  the  grass  be  grazed  off,  it 
should  not  be  fed  very  close  to  the  ground.  It 
is  better  to  mow  it,  make  hay,  feed  it  to  sheep 
or  neat  cattle,  and  return  the  manure  as  a  top¬ 
dressing  for  two  years.  Then  plow  the  usual 
depth  with  a  common  plow,  following  with  the 
subsoil  plow,  and  plant  Indian  corn  one  season, 
sow  peas  the  next,  and  feed  out  most  or  all  the 
crops  to  swine,  sheep,  or  neat  cattle,  and  make 
as  much  manure  as  practicable  to  return  to  the 
soil.  The  next  season,  if  the  soil  be  adapted  to 
w'heat,  -winter  wheat  may  be  sowed  after  peas, 
and  the  ground  stocked  down  in  autumn  with 
Timothy  and  the  late  kind  of  Red  Clover ;  the 
next  spring,  there  will  be  a  sufficient  quantity 
of  mold  in  the  soil  to  commence  a  system  of 
rotation  of  crops.  The  best  soil  should  be  kept 
near  the  surface.  It  would  be  bad  manage¬ 
ment  to  plow  such  soil  deep  with  a  common 
plow,  though  the  subsoil  plow  may  in  very 
many  instances  be  used  to  advantage. 


Adams’  Patent  Weeding  Hoe. 


In  the  Agriculturist  for  February  we  gave 
illustrations  of  several  unpatented  weeding  im¬ 
plements,  and  we  now  give  one  which  is  patent¬ 
ed  and  therefore  likely  to  get  into  the  market. 
Some  of  our  correspondents  were  disposed  to 
blame  those  who  patent  simple  contrivances, 
but  it  is  to  be  considered  that  one  who  patents 
an  article,  usually  takes  pains  to  introduce  it, 
to  manufacture  it  cheaply  on  a  large  scale,  and  to 
inform  the  public  where  it  may  be  had.  When 
an  unpatented  contrivance  is  published  in  the 
papers,  but  few  persons  are  willing  to  go  to  the 
trouble  of  having  a  single  implement  made,  and 
the  thing  does  not  become  generally  introduced. 
It  is  with  these  views  that  we  notice  a  simple 
■weeder  made  by  Wm,  C.  Street,  of  Norwalk, 


Conn.,  of  which  the  essential  parts  are  shown 
in  the  engraving.  It  consists  of  a  straight  bladed 
hoe,  fastened  to  a  shaft,  to  one  end  of  which 
a  wheel  is  attached,  and  at  the  other  end  is  a 
handle,  not  shown  in  the  engraving,  for  push¬ 
ing  it.  The  shank  of  the  hoe  is  adjustable  by 
means  of  screws  to  allow  it  to  be  set  at  a  proper 
hight.  It  is  used  by  a  pushing  motion  and  will 
be  found  very  useful  in  weeding  onions,  carrots, 
and  similar  crops.  A  stouter  pattern  is  made 
for  use  upon  garden  walks,  and  carriage  roads. 


How  to  Pitch  Manure. 


As  pitching  manure  is  laborious  work,  it  is 
important  to  render  the  labor  as  easy  as  possi¬ 
ble  by  the  exercise  of  skill  in  handling  the  fork, 
or  shovel.  The  accompanying  illustration  of  a 
laborer  pitching  manure  with  a  long-handled 
fork,  will  illustrate  the  manner  of  performing 
easily  with  skill  Avhat  is  usually  done  by 
main  strength.  To  pitch  easily,  thrust  the  fork 
into  the  manure,  and  make  a  fulcrum  of  one 
knee  for  the  handle  to  rest  on.  Then  a  thrust 
downw'ard  with  the  right  arm  will  detach  the 
forkful  from  the  mass  of  manure  and  elevate  it 
from  one  to  two  feet  high,  by  the  expenditure  of 
little  muscular  force.  By  using  a  fork  like 
a  lever,  as  here  represented,  a  man  can  pitch 
larger  forkfuls,  and  more  of  them  with  far  less 
fatigue,  than  he  can  -ndthout  resting  the  handle 
across  his  knee.  When  manure  is  pitched  with 
a  short-handled  fork,  the  force  required  to  sep¬ 
arate  the  forkfuls  from  the  mass,  as  well  as  for 
lifting  it  on  the  cart,  must  be  applied  by  the 
muscles  alone.  This  often  renders  it  fatiguing 
and  back-aching  labor.  Moreover,  when  a  man 
pitches  with  a  short-handled  fork,  he  applies  his 
force  at  a  very  great  disadvantage,  as  he  is  re¬ 
quired  not  only  to  lift  the  entire  forkful  with 
one  hand,  but  to  thrust  downward  with  the 
other  one  sufficiently  hard  to  balance  the  force 
expended  in  detaching  and  elevating  the  forkful 
of  manure.  Consequently  the  arm  nearest  the 
manure  must  expend  muscular  force  sufficient 
to  raise  the  weight,  say,  of  two  forkfuls.  This 
principle  is  quite  as  applicable  in  using  the 
shovel  as  the  fork.  By  resting  the  long-handle 
across  one  knee  when  shoveling,  keeping  the 
arms  stiff,  the  body  erect  and  straight,  a  slight 
thrust  of  the  body  and  knee  will  force  the  shov¬ 
el  into  the  earth  with  the  expenditure  of  little 
force.  These  suggestions,  and  the  illustration, 
will  enable  any  one  to  expend  his  muscular 
force  to  the  best  possible  advantage  in  using 
both  manure-forks  and  shovels. 

It  is  better  to  suffer  the  worst  that  may  hap¬ 
pen  at  once,  than  to  live  in  perpetual  fear  of  it. 

In  childhood  always  be  modest,  in  youth 
temperate,  in  manhood  just,  in  old  age  prudent 


The  Best  Corn-marker  Yet. 


Corn,  potatoes,  sorghum,  etc.,  in  straight  rows, 
not  only  look  well  and  show  careful  work,  but 
are  much  more  easily  hoed  and  cultivated.  A 
good  marker  therefore  is  a  very  desirable  im¬ 
plement  The  one  figured  below  is  of  an  ex¬ 
cellent  form.  It  consists  of  three  runners,  R, 
four  feet  long,  two  inches  thiek,  and  eight  inch¬ 
es  wide.  The  three  runners  are  held  together 
by  two  hard  wood  bars,  a,  a,  eight  feet  long, 
four  inches  wide,  and  one  inch  thick.  Mortises 
are  made  in  all  the  runners,  two  inches  from  the 
top  edges,  through  which  the  bars  run.  They 
are  pinned  fast  in  the  middle  runner;  but  the 
side  runners  are  fixstened  with  loose  pins,  so  as 
to  be  shifted  and  make  marks  at  any  desired 
distance,  from  two  to  four  feet  apart.  B,  B,  re¬ 
present  two  strips  of  hard  tough  wood  an 
inch  and  a  half  thick,  and  three  inches  wide, 
bolted  firmly  to  the  bars  passing  through  the 
runners.  These  strips  receive  the  coupling  irons 
of  a  light  carriage  pole.  A  seat,  S,  is  fastened  on 
these  strips,  bolted  to  which  are  stout  ash 
handles  connected  by  two  “  rounds”  near  the 
upper  ends.  A  gauge  pole  (G)  is  hinged  by  a 
staple  to  the  middle  runner  in  front  of  the  .seat, 
so  that  it  may  be  turned  on  either  side,  and  a 
chain  attached  to  it  at  the  proper  distance  drags 
in  the  last  made  drill.  This  marker  may  be 
drawn  by  one  stout  horse  if  desired ;  it  is  easy 
to  make,  and  has  points  of  superiority  to  many 
other  forms.  The  marking  may  begin  at  the 
side  of  the  field  or  in  the  middle,  following 


a  row  of  stakes;  and  after  the  first  marking, 
the  driver  should  keep  an  eye  on  the  gauge 
chain,  to  see  that  it  is  drawn  directly  in  the  last 
mark.  At  the  same  time  he  should  cast  his 
eyes  forward  to  see  that  his  team  is  moving  in 
the  right  direction.  It  is  important  to  keep  a 
steady  rein  on  the  team,  and  not  guide  them  ab¬ 
ruptly,  to  the  right  and  left.  A  good  driver  lets 
the  horses  move  along  with  a  slack  rein,  instead 
of  driving  them  with  a  taut  line;  and  one 
who  is  accustomed  to  hold  a  slack,  and  appa¬ 
rently  careless  rein,  will  usually  mark  ground 
in  straight  rows  without  worrying  a  team. 


Weeds  in  the  Fence-hows. — A  fire  will 
often  run  very  well  in  the  old  weeds  and  grass  of 
the  fence-rows  and  along  the  walls,  and  at  any 
rate  the  bush-hook,  or  brush-scythe  may  be  used 
to  advantage  in  cutting  every  thing  close  to  the 
ground,  so  that  the  operation  of  mowing  the 
weeds  off  may  be  repeated  as  often  during  the 
summer  as  the  weeds  make  a  good  growth.  The 
burning  is  very  desirable  to  kill  the  seeds,  and 
if  w’atched,  will  not  damage  the  fence.  With  a 
stout  team  and  plow  the  fenee-strip  may  be  torn 
up,  where  the  land  is  not  too  stony,  turning  the 
fuiTow  outward,  often  better  at  this  season  than 
at  any  other.  Buckwheat  sown  in  such  ground 
is  one  of  the  most  effectual  means  of  killing 
weeds.  It  may  be  sowed  early,  cut  when  ripe, 
and  sowed  again,  or  left  to  sow  itself,  the  old 
haulms  being  raked  off.  Shrubs,  blackberry 
vines,  etc.,  are  eradicated  by  the  same  means. 


150 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


PlAT, 


Tarring  Seed  Corn. 


Winnow  the  grain  to  remove  all  the  heavy 
chaff,  and  steep  it  in  warm  rain  water  about 
twelve  hours.  If  kept  in  the  steep  much  longer 
than  this  time,  there  is  danger  of  injuring  the 
germs.  Keep  the  vessel  containing  it  in  a  warm 
place,  as  the  kernels  will  imbibe  moistui-e  much 
sooner  if  the  steep  be  warm.  Then  pour  it  into 
a  basket  to  drain  for  fifteen  minutes.  For  half  a 
bushel  of  seed,  use  about  a  teacupful  of  warm, 
but  not  hot  gas  tar,  and  stir  with  a  smooth 
stick,  until  every  kernel  is  covered  with  a  thin 
coating  of  tar.  By  pouring  the  seed  from  one 
vessel  to  another  a  few  times,  the  tarring  will 
be  facilitated.  As  gas  tar  will  spread  over  a 
much  larger  surface  than  pine  tar,  there  is 
danger  of  applying  so  much  as  to  make  it  dis¬ 
agreeable  to  handle,  though  it  will  not  injure 
the  corn.  Now  roll  it  in  gypsum,  and  plant  as 
soon  as  practicable.  When  the  seed  is  in  the 
field,  it  should  always  be  kept  covered  in  a  close 
vessel,  instead  of  a  basket,  to  prevent  it  drying. 
The  object  in  tarring  is  to  prevent  the  seed  be¬ 
ing  pulled  by  crows,  blackbirds,  doves,  and 
domestic  fowls.  The  tar  appears  also  to  repel 
wire  worms,  until  the  corn  is  about  a  foot 
high.  By  this  time,  the  influence  of  the  tar 
becomes  inoperative  in  repelling  wire  worms. 

When  seed  of  any  kind  is  coated  with  tar  be¬ 
fore  it  has  been  steeped,  it  will  be  a  long  lime  in 
absorbing  sufficient  moisture  to  make  it  germi¬ 
nate.  But  when  the  seed  is  steeped  previous  to 
tarring,  germination  is  not  seriously  retarded. 
Where  birds,  domestic  fowls,  or  squirrels,  do 
not  pull  or  dig  up  the  corn,  nothing  is  gained 
by  steeping  and  tarring.  We  once  planted  some 
corn  which  had  been  well  prepared  by  steep¬ 
ing  and  tarring,  most  of  which  came  up  in  ten 
days.  Four  days  after  this  was  planted,  we 
sowed  a  plot  of  corn  broadcast,  in  the  same 
field,  and  the  dry,  untarred,  corn  came  up 
well  in  five  days.  The  soil  was  warm  and 
moist  when  the  seed  was  harrowed  in,  and 
had  just  been  plowed  the  second  time. 

- - - - - - 

Use  and  Value  of  Gas  Tar. 


Gas  or  Coal  Tar  is  a  product  accompanying 
the  making  of  gas  from  coal,  and  can  usually 
be  obtained  wherever  gas  is  made,  at  f  1  to  $2 
per  barrel,  or  by  the  gallon.  As  mechanics 
and  farmers  are  beginning  to  learn  its  value  for 
preserving  wood-work  of  various  kinds  and  for 
painting  iron  that  is  exposed  to  the  influences 
of  the  weather,  the  price  has  been  for  some 
time  gradually  advancing.  We  have  been  ac¬ 
customed  to  use  it  for  twenty  years  past  with 
most  satisfactory  results.  It  is  an  excellent  paint 
for  shingle  roofe  but  should  become  thorough¬ 
ly  dry  before  water  is  collected,  as  it  not  only 
colors  the  water,  but  makes  it  taste  veiy  disa¬ 
greeably.  It  is  very  useful  applied  to  fence 
posts  to  render  them  durable.  Some  men  make 
a  deep  box  and  dip  the  ends  of  the  posts  in  it, 
so  as  to  smear  the  lower  ends  three  feet  or  more 
in  length.  But  we  have  found  it  is  quite  as  well 
to  tar  the  post  about  one  foot  below  the  surface 
of  the  ground  and  a  few  inches  above  it,  as  to 
tar  the  entire  end,  for  posts  always  decay  first, 
near  the  surface  of  the  ground.  Our  way  to 
apply  it  is,  to  set  the  posts  and  fill  the  holes  with¬ 
in  a  foot  of  the  surface.  Then  with  a  whitewash 
brush  give  each  post  a  good  coat,  the  thicker  the 
better,  and  then  fill  the  hole  with  earth.  The 
writer  has  always  found  it  an  excellent  material 
for  painting  the  joints  of  gates,  and  board  and 


picket  fence,  where  two  surfaces  come  together, 
as  well  as  for  smearing  timber  of  bridges  and 
buildings,  where  they  are  exposed  to  wet  and 
dry  weather,  as  it  excludes  water  more  effectu¬ 
ally  than  the  best  oil  paint.  The  sills  and  under 
sides  of  plank  walks,  if  smeared  with  a  heavy 
coat  of  coai  tar,  will  last  more  than  twice  as 
long  as  if  not  tarred.  The  upper  side  of  timbers 
and  joists  on  which  stable  floors  rest  if  tarred, 
will  exclude  wet,  and  keep  them  in  a  good  state 
of  preservation  for  many  years.  In  some  in¬ 
stances  wooden  pipe  for  conducting  gas  is  sat¬ 
urated  with  gas  tar  previous  to  being  laid  in  the 
ground,  and  such  pipe  has  been  examined  after 
having  been  in  the  ground  22  years,  and  there 
were  no  signs  of  decay.  There  are  many  other 
uses  for  this  material  which  renders  it  valuable 
to  the  farmer.  It  is  a  dangerous  substance  to 
apply  to  fruit  trees.  The  writer  once  applied  a 
small  quantity  to  a  valuable  apple  tree,  where 
two  limbs  had  been  sawed  off,  and  the  tree  was 
killed  effectually  in  a  few  months,  by  the  poi¬ 
sonous  influence  of  the  tar. 


Cultiire  of  White  Beaus. 


Several  subscribers  of  the  Agriculturist  have 
inquired  for  information  on  the  culture  of  field 
beans.  If  the  soil  be  light,  plow  it  when  apple 
trees  are  in  blossom  ;  and  in  about  two  weeks 
afterward  harrow  thoroughly  and  put  in  the 
seed.  If  the  soil  be  rather  heavy,  plow  it  twice, 
once  at  the  time  mentioned,  and  again  two  weeks 
after.  Harrow  and  roll,  if  there  are  lumps,  and 
put  in  the  seed  as  soon  as  practicable  after  har¬ 
rowing.  Beans,  as  well  as  other  seed,  will  vege¬ 
tate  much  sooner  when  planted  in  fresh  soil, 
than  when  it  has  been  plowed  several  days.  If 
the  ground  be  in  sod,  and  a  light  open  soil,  plow 
with  a  flat  furrow  slice,  harrow,  plant,  and  roll. 
But  where  the  soil  is  heavy,  disposed  to  bake,  a 
little  wet,  and  in  sod,  defer  plowing  until  the 
soil  is  in  the  best  condition  to  pulverize  well. 
Then  plow  with  lapped  furrow  slices,  but  not 
deep  enough  to  turn  up  any  of  the  compact 
subsoil.  Harrow  thoroughly,  and  put  in  the 
beans  the  same  day  the  land  is  plowed,  if  prac¬ 
ticable.  By  putting  off  the  planting  until  wet 
ground  has  become  warm,  settled,  and  dry 
enough  to  pulverize  well,  and  planting  as  soon  as 
the  ground  is  plowed,  the  beans  will  vegetate 
in  a  short  time,  get  the  start  of  weeds,  and  thus 
save  much  labor  in  hoeing. 

There  are  several  ways  of  planting  beans. 
One  is  to  plant  in  hills,  about  two  feet  apart  each 
■way.  Another  is  in  hills  with  rows  only  one 
way.  Still  another  is  to  put  in  the  seed  with  a 
single  drill,  or  scatter  the  beans  along  in  a  shal¬ 
low  furrow  a  few  inches  apart.  If  the  soil  be 
deep  and  mellow,  and  weeds  have  been  pretty 
thoroughly  exterminated  in  previous  years,  they 
may  be  sowed  broadcast  and  harrowed  in,  if  it 
be  done  as  soon  as  the  ground  is  plowed.  But, 
if  there  he  many  weeds,  it  would  not  be  well  to 
put  them  in  broadcast,  as  weeds  injure  their 
growth.  The  most  expeditious  way  of  planting 
beans  is,  to  put  them  in  with  a  two-horse  grain 
drill,  adjusting  it  so  that  every  third  tube  or 
tooth  will  plant  a  row.  By  this  arrangement 
the  rows  will  be  about  two  feet,  or  two  feet  and 
a  few  inches  apart,  which  will  allow  a  horse 
and  cultivator  to  pass  between  them.  The  drill 
should  be  adjusted  to  scatter  the  beans  about 
two  inches  apart.  A  greater  crop  can  be  pro¬ 
duced  in  this  way  than  to  plant  in  hills,  be¬ 
cause  the  seed  is  distributed  more  evenly  over 
the  entire  ground.  There  is  nothing  gained  by 


planting  beans  too  thickly,  as  four  or  five  stalks 
in  a  hill  will  yield  a  maximum  product.  The 
quantity  of  seed  per  acre  will  depend  entirely 
on  the  size  of  the  beans  and  the  distance  apart. 
Usually,  2  to  4  bushels  are  required  per  acre. 


Tim  Bunker’s  Visit  to  Titus  Oaks,  Esq. 

Mk.  Editor:— You  see  I  hadn’t  more  than 
got  done  with  Diah  Tubbs,  and  his  pickle  patch, 
when  I  begun  to  grow  uneasy  for  something 
else  to  talk  about.  Some  folks  can  set  round 
the  fire  and  talk  with  the  women  all  day,  but  I 
never  could  do  up  my  visiting  in  that  way.  I 
knew  I  had  got  about  all  out  of  Uncle  Di  in  one 
evening  that  I  should  get  out  of  him  if  I  pump  ¬ 
ed  him  till  doomsday.  So  the  next  morning, 
after  breakfast,  I  begun  to  inquire  about  the 
neighboring  country  and  farmers.  Says  I, 

“Uncle  Di,  your  Westchester  county  is  a 
great  country.  I  have  heard  of  it  clear  up  in 
Connecticut.  You  ought  to  have  some  smart 
farmers  round  here  that  go  in  for  fancy  stock. 

“Jest  so.  We  have  lots  on  ’em.  Fellers 
that  got  rich  in  the  city,  and  come  out  here  and 
spend  their  money  and  call  it  high  farming. 
I’ll  bet  you  a  shad,  every  potato  they  raise  costs 
’em  a  dollar.” 

“How  do  you  make  that  out?” 

“  Wal,  ye  see,  they  take  perticuler  pains  to 
buy  the  roughest,  stoniest  place  they  can  find> 
and  next  see  how  much  money  they  can  bury 
up  in  it.  They  blow  rocks,  tear  down  hills, 
drain  swamps,  fill  up  ponds  that  is,  and  dig 
ponds  that  ain’t,  and  call  ’em  lakes ;  cut  down 
trees  that  are  stannin,  and  plant  trees  where 
there  aint  none ;  put  the  surface  sile  down  to 
the  bottom,  and  bring  up  the  yaller  dirt  for  the 
sake  of  making  it  black,  and  raise  Hob  gener¬ 
ally  with  the  land  before  they  plant  it.  Here  is 
Squire  Oaks,  jest  above  me,  that  has  been  rip- 
pin  and  tearin  with  his  land  for  a  dozen  years 
and  more,  and  I  guess  every  acre  he’s  got  has 
cost  him  tew  hundred  dollars,  if  not  more,  and 
I  can  beat  him  on  pickles,  with  all  his  manure 
and  sub-soiling,” 

“Well,  now,  ’spose  we  hitch  up  and  go  over 
and  see  Squire  Oaks’  place  this  morning.  I 
want  to  learn  something  to  carry  back  to  Hook- 
ertown  ?” 

“  What  do  you  say,  Esther  ?  ”  inquired  Uncle 
Di,  looking  up  to  headquarters. 

“  I  think,”  said  Mrs.  Tubbs,  “  that  Sally 
would  like  to  see  one  of  our  country  seats.  Mr. 
Oaks  has  a  fine  conservatoiy,  and  the  flowers 
are  very  attractive  this  winter.”  So  it  was  ar¬ 
ranged  that  we  should  visit  the  country  seat  ol 
Titus  Oaks,  Esq.,  in  full  force. 

I  expected  to  find  a  man,  city  bred,  with 
gloves  on,  and  stove-pipe  hat,  and  gold-headed 
cane,  ordering  men  round,  right  and  left.  In¬ 
stead  of  that,  I  found  a  man  that  might  have 
been  taken  for  a  native  of  Hookertown,  any 
where  on  Connecticut  soil,  and  driving  away  at 
the  dirt  and  stone,  as  if  he  wan’t  afraid  of  them, 

“Good  morning,”  said  I,  “Squire  Oaks.  I  am 
glad  to  find  a  Justice  of  the  Peace  in  these 
'parts.  I  have  thought  that  such  an  officer  must 
have  a  good  deal  to  do  in  this  region.” 

“You  were  never  more  mistaken  in  your 
life,”  he  replied.  “  They  call  me  Squire,  but  I 
have  no  more  claim  to  the  title  than  my  Alder¬ 
ney  bull.  The  office  must  have  been  abolished 
some  time  ago  around  here.  Every  man  does 
about  what  Is  right  in  his  own  eyes.” 

“  Excuse  me,  sir,  I  do  not  like  to  hear  a  man 
speak  evil  of  his  birth-place.” 

“  Praise  the  Lord,  I  was  born  In  New-Eng- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURlST. 


151 


land,  where  a  ‘  Squire’  meant  something,  and — 
scoundrels  got  their  dues.” 

“  Now,  Squire,”  said  I,  “  what  have  you  got 
to  show  us.  Any  new  notions  around  ?  ” 

“I  tried  an  e.xperiment  last  year  on 
CUKING  CLOVER  HAY, 
and  I  would  like  to  show  you  the  result.” 

He  took  us  out  to  the  barn  and  showed  us  a 
bay,  perhaps  twelve  by  thirty  feet,  from  which 
he  was  feeding  his  Alderney  herd.  It  was  well 
filled  with  as  handsome  clover  as  I  ever  saw. 
If  I  was  not  afraid  of  having  my  word  doubted, 
I  should  say  the  handsomest.  It  was  cut  down 
in  the  middle  with  a  hay  knife,  and  you  could 
see  just  how  it  was  managed.  There  "was 
about  ten  inches  of  clover,  and  then  about  two 
inches  of  old  salt  hay,  in  alternate  layers.  The 
clover  had  all  the  leaves  on,  nearly,  and  was  as 
bright  and  green  as  on  the  day  it  was  put  in  the 
barn.  To  show  that  the  hay  was  as  good  as  it 
looked,  Sqinre  Oaks  pulled  out  a  lock  of  it,  and 
also  a  handful  of  Timothy  from  the  opposite 
mow,  and  presented  both  to  an  old  cow.  She 
smelled  of  the  Timothy  first,  and  then  opened 
her  mouth  for  the  clover,  without  stopping  to 
take  a  second  sniff.  The  same  was  done  to  an 
Alderney  heifer,  who  might  not  be  supposed  to 
be  so  well  versed  in  hay  lore,  with  a  like  result. 
There  was  no  mistake.  It  was  tip-top  clover. 

“  Now,”  says  I,  “  Squire,  how  did  you  cure 
it?  for  this  will  do  to  tell  in  Hookertown.” 

“  It  is  the  easiest  thing  in  the  world,”  says  he. 
“  I  cut  the  clover  with  a  mower,  when  it  was 
lust  in  blossom,  and  let  it  lie  in  the  sun  till 
wilted.  I  then  put  it  in  cocks,  and  let  it  stand 
until  the  next  day,  when  I  put  it  into  the  barn. 
There  was  first  a  layer  of  salt  hay,  rather  thin, 
then  a  thick  layer  of  clover.  It  comes  out  just 
as  you  see  it.  I  think  one  (on  of  that  clover  is 
worth  two  of  hay,  as  it  is  usually  cured.  All 
the  leaves  and  all  the  juices  are  there.  The 
salt  bay,  somehow',  helps  cure  it.  I  do  not  at¬ 
tempt  to  explain  the  philosophy  of  it.” 

Farmers  wdio  have  old  stacks  of  this  hay,  and 
heaps  of  refuse  straw  about  the  barn,  should 
save  them,  and  try  Squire  Oaks’  experiment.  I 
guess  there  is  more  virtue  in  the  dry  hay  than 
in  the  salt.  It  helps  the  ventilation,  and  makes 
the  curing  complete. 

A  New  Mulch  for  STR.4.WRERRrES  was 
shown  us  in  the  garden.  This  consisted  of  sods 
from  a  brake  swamp,  cut  an  inch  or  two  thick, 
with  a  spade,  so  that  they  could  be  laid  between 
the  rows.  He  had  been  draining  a  piece  of  wet 
land,  and  had  a  plenty  of  these  on  hand. 
When  fresh  cut,  they  are  free  from  seeds  of 
W'eeds,  and  so  sour  that  nothing  wdll  grow  on 
them  the  first  season.  They  are  easily  handled, 
keep  the  ground  moist,  and  the  berries  clean. 
After  a  year’s  exposure,  they  may  be  spaded  in, 
or  removed  to  the  manure  heap. 

Trellis  for  Grapes. — Mr.  Oaks  has  turned 
his  ledges  to  good  account  in  training  grape 
vines  all  over  them,  by  means  of  wires.  These 
ledges,  some  of  them,  present  a  bare  surface, 
of  twenty  or  thirty  feet,  and  as  he  could  not 
very  well  remove  them,  he  covers  them  with  a 
mantle  of  green  in  summer,  and  has  the  purple 
clusters  in  autumn.  This  is  a  timely  hint  for 
the  multitude  of  improvers  in  Westchester 
county  and  elsewdiere,  W’ho  are  troubled  with 
ledges.  They  were  made  on  purpose  for  grapes. 

How  Nature  Plants  a  Tree. — He  showed 
us  an  apple  tree  planted  on  Nature’s  plan — i.  e., 
as  near  to  the  surface  as  you  can  get  it,  and  a 
spot  where  a  tree  was  planted  on  some  garden¬ 
er’s  plan — burying  the  roots  in  a  deep  hole. 
The  latter  spot  was  vacant,  while  the  tree  was 


flourishing,  and  had  made  a  very  broad  collar 
just  above  the  surface  of  the  soil.  Titus  Oaks, 
Esq.,  laid  very  great  stress  upon  this  mode  of 
planting.  “  Nature,”  says  he,  “  in  growing  an 
apple  tree,  first  runs  the  seed  through  a  cow’s 
stomach,  and  deposits  it  in  a  thick  vegetable 
paste,  upon  the  surface  of  the  earth,  or  a  little 
above  it.  The  following  spring  the  seed  sprouts 
and  the  roots  find  their  way  into  the  earth. 
Such  trees  make  the  hardiest  stocks,  and  are 
the  longest  lived.” 

An  Orchard  upon  a  Gravel  Bed.— This 
he  regarded  as  one  of  the  triumphs  of  his  art. 
There  was  no  mistake  about  the  poverty  of  the 
soil,  for  it  was  made  up  of  sand  and  gravel,  as 
the  adjoining  bank  showed.  No  one  had  ever 
got  a  crop  from  it  before.  There  was  just  as 
little  mistake  about  the  apple  trees.  They 
were  very  thrifty,  well  grown  trees,  and  fruitful. 
The  gravel  bed  had  been  treated  with  muck 
from  an  adjoining  pond.  That  was  the  secret. 

We  left,  highly  pleased  with  Titus  Oaks,  Esq., 
and  his  notions.  He  made  us  promise  that  %ve 
would  not  mention  his  name  in  connection  with 
his  improvements,  a  promise  which  we  keep  by 
taking  his  light  out  from  under  his  bushel,  and 
putting  it  upon  your  candlestick. 

Hookertown^  Conn»^  )  Yours  to  command, 

Ajfril  Uf,  1865.  j  Timothy  Bunker  Esq, 

m  I  ■  i 

Pulverization  of  Heavy  Soils  Impracti¬ 
cable  if  too  Wet. 

When  there  is  an  excess  of  water  in  heavy 
soils  it  is  utterly  impracticable  to  reduce  them 
to  fine  tilth  w'ith  plows  and  harrows.  They 
may  be  renderetl  somewhat  fine  by  cutting  and 
tearing  them  to  pieces ;  but  they  can  not  be 
pulverized  any  more  than  one  can  pulverize  a 
batch  of  dough.  When  a  heavy  soil  is  filled 
with  water  instead  of  air,  the  more  it  is  plowed 
or  harrowed  the  more  compact  it  will  be,  when 
the  surplus  water  has  dried  out.  Sandy  soils 
maybe  plowed  and  harrowed  in  some  instances 
without  injury,  when  they  are  quite  wet;  but 
heavy  soils  must  be  sufficiently  dry  to  crumble 
readily  when  worked,  or  it  will  be  impossible 
to  reduce  them  to  that  degree  of  fineness,  which 
is  essential  for  the  roots  of  plants  to  spread 
through  them.  If  a  handful  of  heavy  soil,  in 
which  there  is  not  an  excess  of  water,  be  work¬ 
ed  with  the  hands,  it  will  crumble,  but  when 
so  wet  that  it  will  knead  like  dough,  the  more 
it  is  worked  the  harder  it  will  be,  when  it 
comes  to  dry,  and  the  less  suitable  its  condition 
to  promote  the  growth  of  plants.  When  a 
heavy  soil  just  dry  enough  to  crumble  well,  is 
plowed  with  narrow  furrow  slices,  or  spaded 
finely,  it  will  be  about  one  fourth  deeper  than  it 
was  before  it  was  plowed.  On  the  contrary,  if 
plowed  when  so  wet  as  to  knead  and  not  crum¬ 
ble,  it  will  settle  down  at  once  to  the  same  bulk 
or  depth  that  it  had  before  it  was  worked. 

The  first  thing  to  be  done  then  toward  a  thor¬ 
ough  pulverization  of  heavy  soils  is,  to  drain 
them.  The  next  is  to  plow  in  autumn  and  ap¬ 
ply  bam-yard  manure ;  then,  in  order  to  increase 
the  quantity  of  vegetable  mold,  and  keep  them 
light  and  friable,  to  raise  crops  of  Red  Clover 
or  Indian  corn  to  be  plowed  under  when  green. 


Tobacco. — Those  who  will  cultivate  the  weed 
should,  at  this  season,  not  only  prepare  the  field 
with  care,  much  as  advised  for  carrots  in  another 
article,  but  particularly  look  to  the  seed  beds, 
directions  for  which  are  given  on  page  107.  It 
is  not  now  too  late  to  make  them.  Watering 
with  diluted  manure  water,  or  gas-liquor,  and 


sprinkling  with  wood  and  plaster,  are  very  bene¬ 
ficial.  As  to  the  profit  of  tobacco  culture  in  the 
Northern  States,  we  believe  the  majority  of  far¬ 
mers  would  do  better  to  put  in  roots  or  sorghum. 


Field  Culture  of  Carrots  on  Heavy  Soils. 


Farmers  generally  do  not  know  the  true 
value  of  a  crop  of  roots  of  any  kind,  and  in 
many  parts  of  our  country  the  soil  is  in  a  state 
of  cultivation  quite  too  poor  to  produce  good 
crops.  The  soil  for  beets,  rutabagas,  parsnips, 
and  carrots  must  necessarily  be  in  a  good  state 
of  fertility,  well  pulverized,  and  not  excessively 
moist.  This  is  more  particularly  true  of  heavy 
than  of  light  soils.  It  is  no  difficult  task  to 
raise  carrots  on  loamy  soOs,  if  one  has  a  good 
supply  of  manure,  but  on  heavy  soils,  a  deal  of 
good  management  is  essential.  It  will  be  almost 
useless  to  attempt  to  grow  carrots  on  a  heavy 
soil  where  there  is  an  excess  of  water,  or  that  is 
in  poor  condition,  or  overrun  w'ith  weeds.  It 
would  be  equally  unwise  to  attempt  to  grow 
roots  on  a  poor,  light  soil,  without  a  good 
manuring.  On  those  farms  where  the  soil  is  for 
the  most  part  heavy,  there  are  places  in  almost 
every  field  where  an  acre,  or  half  an  acre,  can 
be  selected,  which  will  yield  a  fair  crop  of 
roots,  with  but  little  labor.  The  great  dilficnlty 
in  growing  roots  on  many  heavy  soils  is  in  get¬ 
ting  the  seed  started.  If  such  small  seed  be 
covered  with  heavy  soil,  unless  the  w'eather  be 
very  favorable,  it  will  not  come  up  well;  be¬ 
cause  it  cannot  force  its  way  up  through  the 
crust  of  compact  earth.  Consequently,  if  the 
seed  be  checked  in  its  growth,  for  a  day  or  two, 
just  as  it  is  about  to  appear  on  the  surface,  the 
young  plants  fail  to  come  up  at  all.  But,  when 
the  soil  is  light  and  mellow,  it  is  not  necessary 
to  guard  against  any  such  difficulty. 

We  have  been  accustomed  to  grow  roots  for 
all  kinds  of  farm  stock,  on  heavy  soils,  where  it 
W'as  often  difficult  to  obtain  mellow  earth  suf- 
fieient  to  cover  the  seed.  The  practice  is  to 
plow  the  ground  in  autumn,  and  apply  a  good 
coat  of  manure,  when  it  can  be  obtained  in 
the  fall,  and  harrow  it  in;  otherwise,  in  the 
spring,  when  the  ground  is  plowed  the  second 
time.  The  first  plowing  is  done  with  narrow 
furrow  slices,  when  we  plow  for  corn.  The 
second,  about  two  weeks  after  corn-planting. 
The  best  kinds  for  field  culture  are  Long 
Orange  and  White  Belgian.  After  harrowing 
and  rolling  the  ground,  where  the  soil  is  suf¬ 
ficiently  mellow  for  covering  the  seed,  it  is 
sowed  and  covered  with  a  seed  drill.  Some¬ 
times,  on  very  hard  soil,  we  have  hauled  earth 
from  some  other  part  of  the  field,  which  was 
carried  along  in  baskets,  or  on  wheelbarrows, 
and  sprinkled  about  half  an  inch  thick  over  the 
seed.  In  some  instances,  sods  from  the  high¬ 
way,  well  decayed  and  pulverized,  were  used  as 
covering  for  the  seed.  On  light,  loamy,  sandy, 
and  mucky  soils,  all  this  is  not  necessary. 
When  praelicable,  procure  seed  free  from  burrs. 
We  prefer  much  to  soak  the  carrot  seed  nearly 
to  sprouting  before  sowing.  This  is  done  in  a 
bag  kept  moist  and  warm.  Just  before  sowing, 
it  should  be  rolled  in  plaster,  and  it  ma}'  be 
sowed  with  a  good  drill— equally  well  by  hand, 
and  very  conveniently  through  a  tin  horn. 
With  good  weather,  it  will  come  up  so  as  to 
show  the  rows  plainly  before  the  weeds  get  a 
start.  The  rows  are  close  enough,  if  two  feet 
apart,  and  many  good  farmers  put  them  thirty 
inches,  for  greater  convenience  in  cultivation. 
These  directions  apply  equally  to  the  other 
root  crops  above  mentioned. 


18G5.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


153 


The  Wheaten  Loaf. 


There  is  probably  no  part  of  the  United  States 
where  general  farming  can  be  profitably  con- 
clnctecl,  in  which  the  farmers  may  not  raise  their 
own  wheat.  Much  as  we  may  rejoice  in  our 
golden  harvests  of  beautiful  maize,  and  in  the 
liomely  lu.xuries  of  corn  bread,  Johnny  cake, 
and  classical  “Hasty  pudding,”  or  delight  in  rye, 
both  in  the  field  and  upon  the  table,  as  associa¬ 
ted  with  ideas  of  frugality  and  economic  thrift— 
we  must  still  give  to  wheat  the  first  place  among 
the  cereals,  as  the  exponent  in  agriculture  of 
fertile  soils,  good  fiirming,  and  prosperity,  and 
in  housekeeping  of  good,  and  even  luxurious 
living.  Wheat  is  indeed  the  basis  of  all  our 
most  delicate  and  nutritious  articles  of  farinace¬ 
ous  food,  but  among  the  long  list,  wholesome  and 
palatable  as  they  are,  first  and  last  is  the  Wheat¬ 
en  Loaf.— Bread,  tender  and  white,  light  and 
spongy,  full  of  nutriment,  and  full  of  flavor, 
is  indeed  the  staff  of  life. 

We  have  long  had  in  contemplation  to  pre¬ 
sent  to  our  readers  the  pictorial  history  of  a  loaf 
of  bread.  On  the  adjoining  page,  is  the  first 
chapter  of  this  history  in  the  three  landscape 
views  entitled  “Seed  Time,”  representing  the 
operations  attending  the  preparation  of  the  soil 
and  sowing  the  seed.  The  deep  loam  is  'well 
manured,  plowed,  subsoiled,  and  harrowed; 
then  the  grain  is  sowed  by  hand,  and  harrowed 
in,  or  drilled  in,  and  rolled.  Our  artist  gives 
the  drilled  field  especial  prominence,  that  we 
may  direct  attention  to  the  thousands  of  bushels 
of  grain  annually  wasted  in  the  heavier  seeding, 
when  it  is  sown  broadcast,  and  to  the  fact  that 
the  crop  of  the  country  numbers  hundreds  of 
thousands  of  bushels  less  every  year  than  it 
would  were  all  the  wheat  possible  sowed  in 
drills.  Next  to  rye,  wheat  is  perhaps  the  best 
of  grains  with  which  to  seed  down  to  grass. 
So  behind  the  harrow  will  be  noticed  a  man 
sowing  grass  seed,  which  falling  among  the  still 
moving  earth  is  only  slightl}'’  covered.  The 
wheat  which  is  subjected  to  the  whole  operation 
of  the  harrow  being  covered  much  deeper. 


Grain  for  Sheep. 


If  there  is  one  period  more  than  another  at 
which  sheep  should  have  a  little  grain  daily, 
that  time  is  in  the  spring,  a  few  weeks  previous 
to  being  turned  to  grass.  A  small  quantity  is 
good  for  them  during  the  entire  foddering  sea¬ 
son.  Some  farmers  reverse  this  order,  by  feed¬ 
ing  grain  every  day,  as  soon  as  they  commence 
foddering,  and  then  discontinue  the  grain  a  short 
time  before  grass  is  large  enough  for  pasturing. 
As  the  warm  weather  comes  on,  sheep  need  a 
little  better  feed  than  when  the  weather  was 
pinching  cold.  The  appetite  is  not  so  sharp  at 
this  season  of  the  year;  but  a  little  grain  if 
not  more  than  five  or  six  ounces  for  each  sheep, 
will  give  an  appetite  and  induce  them  to  con¬ 
sume  more  hay,  straw  and  corn  stalks  than 
would  be  eaten  if  no  grain  were  fed.  If  “wet” 
ewes  be  daily  fed  half  a  pound  each  of  some 
kind  of  grain  in  connection  with  hay,  straw  and 
other  feed,  it  will  make  their  wool  grow,  fatten 
their  lambs,  and  keep  them  in  a  strong,  thrifty 
condition.  Grain  will  not  be  thrown  away 
when  properly  fed  to  sheep,  even  if  it  com¬ 
mands  a  high  price  in  market.  A  certain 
amount  of  fat  is  essential  to  good  health  in  all 
kinds  of  animals.  It  is  exceedingly  undesirable 
and  most  unprofitable  to  have  sheep  or  any 
stock  grow  poor  just  before  being  turned  to 


grass,  and  this 
they  are  apt  to  do, 
unless  they  are 
fed  grain  or  roots 
or  both,  during 
the  warm  period 
in  the  spring  with 
its  consequent 
lassitude,  before 
grazing  time.  The 
farmer  who  with¬ 
holds  a  few  bush¬ 
els  of  grain  from 
his  sheep,  because 
it  commands  a 
high  price  in  mar¬ 
ket,  may  rest  as¬ 
sured  that  he  will 
lose  more  in  wool, 
fat  and  flesh,  and 
in  the  size  of 
lambs  than  the 
grain  would  be 
worth.  Even  after 
sheep  have  been 
turned  to  grass, 
it  is  well  to  feed 
a  little  grain  dai¬ 
ly  until  they  have  become  accustomed  to 
green  feed.  If  the  hay  be  all  fed  out,  feed  half 
a  pound  of  grain  per  head,  and  let  them  have 
constant  access  to  good  straw,  and  to  grass  for 
about  one  hour  daily.  When  managed  thus 
they  will  not  grow  poor,  nor  have  the  scours. 

- - - - - - - - 

The  New  York  Flower  Markets. 


Though  New  York  has  not,  like  Paris,  a  sep¬ 
arate  market  for  the  sale  of  flowers,  yet  the 
number  of  plants  sold  every  spring  is  enormous. 
In  each  of  the  principal  markets  there  are  sev¬ 
eral  dealers  in  plants,  and  during  the  season 
there  are  venders  at  the  corners  of  the  streets, 
besides  frequent  auctions  in  the  business  part  of 
the  city.  When  we  see  plants  offered  for  sale 
at  any  of  these  places,  we  are  both  glad  and 
sorry ;  glad  to  see  that  even  in  a  crowded  city 
like  this  there  is  a  demand  for  plants  with  which 
to  beautify  the  small  space  3^et  uncovered  by 
buildings ;  sorry  to  think  that  nine  out  of  ten 
who  purchase  the  plants  will  be  sorely  disap¬ 
pointed.  The  majority  of  those  who  buy  at 
these  flower  markets  are  tenants,  who  wish  to 
have  something  to  beautify  their  yards  for  the 
present  year,  without  much  regard  to  the  future, 
and  they  get  that  which  gives  them  very  little 
satisfaction.  This  is  in  part  the  fault  of  the 
purchasers  who,  having  but  little  experience 
in  such  matters,  will  only  purchase  plants  in 
flower,  and  to  comply  with  this  prejudice  the 
gardeners  force  a  great  variety  of  plants  into 
premature  bloom  and  send  them  to  the  spring 
sales.  We  find  Deutzia  gracilis,  Dicentras, 
Iris,  Pansies,  and  numerous  other  things  all  in 
full  bloom,  in  which  condition  they  meet  with 
ready  sale.  These  plants,  when  set  out,  soon 
pass  out  of  flower  and  spend  all  the  rest  of  the 
season  in  recovering  from  the  effects  of  the 
forcing  process  to  which  they  have  been  sub¬ 
jected,  and  the  purchaser  is,  most  generally 
disappointed.  To  those  who  live  in  towns 
where  flowers  are  sold  in  the  way  we  have  de¬ 
scribed,  we  say,  if  you  buy  plants  in  bloom, 
make  up  your  minds  that  you  see  them  at  their 
best,  and  though  the  plant  is  often  worth  the 
price  asked,  merely  for  tne  present  enjoyment  it 
affords,  it  will  in  the  majority  of  cases  fail  to 
bloom  any  more  until  another  year. 


The  Bladder-nut  TxeQ.—{Staphylea  trifolia.) 


Along  the  edges  of  woods  there  is  occasional¬ 
ly  found,  in  most  parts  of  the  country,  a  small 
tree  which  has  some  qualities  that  adapt  it  to 
the  purposes  of  ornamentation.  It  grows  only 
to  the  hight  of  about  15  feet,  but  is  quite  tree¬ 
like  in  its  habit  and  may  be  considered  as  a 
small  tree  or  a  large  shrub.  The  trunk  is  of  a 
grayish  color,  marked  in  a  characteristic  man¬ 
ner  with  white  lines.  The  leaves  are  three 
parted;  the  shape  of  the  young  ones,  and  a 

flower  cluster  of 
the  natural  size, 
are  shown  in  the 
engraving.  The 
flowers  are  pretty, 
though  not  very 
showy.  They  are 
borne  in  pendent 
graceful  clusters 
and  are  of  a 
greenish  white 
color,  often  tinged 
with  a  pale  rose 
color.  The  most 
noticable  thing 
about  the  tree  is 
the  fruit,  which  is 
shown  of  the  na¬ 
tural  size  in  fig.  2. 
It  appears  like 
three  pea  pods 
grown  together.  The  texture  of  the  pods  is  thin 
and  bladder-like,  whence  the  popular  name. 
Bladder-nut.  The  pods  bear  but  few  seeds,  which 
are  about  the  size  of  duck  shot,  hard  .and  polish¬ 
ed.  The  seeds  of  a  related  species  in  Europe,  are 
strung  and  worn  as  beads.  The  tree  is  readily 
transplanted  from  its  native  localities  and  may 
be  propagated  from  both  seeds  and  cuttings. 

- - -  iii*P^  - *  ^ - - 

Lilium  auratum. — This  splendid  lily  from 
Japan,  which  only  a  year  or  two  ago  was  so 
great  a  rarity  that  the  bulbs  sold  at  $40  each, 
is  now  offered  by  florists  at  $5.  It  will  doubt¬ 
less  soon  beeome  as  abundant  as  the  LiliumlaTi- 
cifolium,  now  so  generally  known  and  admired 
as  the  Japan  Lily.  This  last,  formerly  held  at 
a  high  price,  may  now  be  had  for  50  cents. 


154 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


Some  Varieties  of  White  Beans. 


The  knowledge  of  beans  is  generally  supposed 
to  be  so  easily  acquired  that  it  has  passed 
into  a  proverb  that  one  who  does  not  “  know 


beans”  must  be  of  limited  capacity.  The 
trouble  experienced  in  procuring  reliable  speci¬ 
mens  of  the  leading  field  varieties  has  convinced 
us  that  it  takes  some  lalior  even  to  properly 
“know  beans.”  Beans  not  only  difter  in  size 
and  productiveness,  but  there  is  also  a  difiference 
in  the  quality  and  the  rapidity  with  ■which  they 
mature,  the  latter  often  an  important  considera¬ 
tion  in  cold  climates.  The  engraving  gives  the 
four  kinds  sold  in  the  New  York  market,  and 
shows  their  natural  as  well  as  their  relative  size. 
The  White  Kidney,  fig.  1,  is  larger  than  the  oth¬ 
ers,  being  about  three  fourths  of  an  inch  long, 
and  kidney  shaped.  It  is  a  good  variety  to  use 
green  or  dry.  Next  in  size  is  the  White  Mar¬ 
row,  also  called  Dwarf  White  Cranberry,  and 
White  Marrowfat,  fig.  2.  It  is  of  a  pure  white, 
and  of  a  very  regular  rounded  egg-shape.  This 
is  a  valuable  kind  for  the  garden  as  well  as  for 
field  culture.  Another  variety  known  in  this 
market  as  the  Dumpling,  is  highly  prized  for 
the  excellent  quality  of  the  beans.  As  'we  do 
not  find  it  described  in  any  of  the  standard 
works,  it  is  probably  a  local  name.  The  Pea- 
bean,  fig.  4,  is  the  smallest  of  the  maiket  varie¬ 
ties  and  is  by  many  considered  the  best  bean 
for  cooking.  The  seeds,  though  white,  are  des¬ 
titute  of  the  glossy  surfiice  possessed  by  the 
above  mentioned  sorts.  In  New  England  a  va¬ 
riety  c.alled  the  Blue  Pod,  is  extensively  grown, 
but  it  is  not  to  be  found  among  our  seed  dealers. 
Its  chief  merit  is  its  earliuess,  it  maturing  a 
week  or  ten  days  sooner  than  those  we  have 
figured.  In  quality  it  is  considered  inferior  to 
any  of  the  varieties  above  mentioned.  Colored 
beans  do  not  find  a  ready  sale  in  the  market. 


- w  - - >  <»■ 

Training  the  Tomato. 


In  cultivating  the  tomato  in  large  market  gar¬ 
dens,  the  plants  are  usually  pinched  before  their 
final  transplanting,  and  they  are  then  left  to 
grow  without  any  support ;  but  in  small  gar¬ 
dens,  not  only  is  greater  neatness  observed  by 
taking  some  pains  to  train  the  plants,  but  the 
fruit  is  improved  both  in  quantity  and  quality. 
There  are  several  methods  of  training.  One 
which,  if  not  altogether  the  simplest,  is  one  of 
tlie  neatest,  is  described  by  Mr.  G.  M.  Childs, 
of  Hancock  Co.,  Ill.  “  As  soon  as  the  plants 
are  large  enough,  transplant  to  rich,  light  soil, 
one  in  a  bill,  and  at  least  five  feet  apart  each 
way.  At  least  once  a  week,  scoop  the  earth 
away  from  around  the  plant  and  pour  on  a 
quart  or  more  of  soap  suds.  When  the  plant 
commences  to  branch,  cut  off  the  outer  branch¬ 


es  ;  this  will  have  a  tendency  to  increase  the 
size  of  the  stock  and  cause  it  to  grow  bushy. 
After  the  plants  are  16  or  18  inches  high,  they 
should  be  provided  with  frames.  I  make  mine 
by  splitting  standards  from  pine  boards,  5i  feet 
long,  and  sharpen  their  lower  ends.  To  these 
standards  are  nailed  slats  made  by  sawing  4  feet 
laths  into  three  pieces.  The  frames  are  made  16 
inches  square,  nailing  the  lower  slats  at  15  inch¬ 
es  from  the  bottom  of  the  standards,  the  upper 
ones  at  the  top,  •wdth  others  mid  way  between 
the  two.  Frames  made  in  this  way  have  been 
in  use  five  years,  and  with  a  little  repairing  will 
last  some  years  longer.  When  the  branches  ex¬ 
tend  be3’'ond  the  slats  and  over  the  top  of  the 
frame,  clip  them,  leaving  one  leaf  above  the 
fruit  stems,  and  continue  to  do  this  throughout 
the  season.  The  plant  trained  thus  and  show¬ 
ing  its  ripe  and  ripening  fruit,  forms  a  most 
beautiful  object,  and  one  tomato  grown  in  this 
way  is  ■worth  a  dozen  as  usually  cultivated. 
Last  year  I  had  21  plants,  from  which  I  gathered 
an  abundance  of  fruit  for  table  use  and  canning, 
for  a  family  of  five  persons,  besides  distributing 
from  five  to  six  bushels  among  my  friends.  No 
one  need  to  be  afraid  of  using  the  knife  freely, 
as  there  is  no  danger  that  the  plant  will  not 
fruit  abundantly ;  in  mv'  experience  the  difficul¬ 
ty  has  been  to  keep  it  from  fruiting  too  much.” 

Cultivating  S'weet  Potatoes. 

The  many  inquiries  concerning  the  culture  of 
the  Sweet  Potato  shows  that  there  is  an  increas¬ 
ing  interest  in  this  crop.  There  seems  to  be  no 
doubt  that  in  favorable  seasons,  with  proper  cul¬ 
ture,  a  good  crop  may  be  growm  as  firr  north  as 
Wisconsin.  The  land  should  be  warm  and 
light,  and  a  plenty  of  manure  supplied.  In  last 
month’s  basket  and  calendar,  directions  were 
given  for  starting  the  plants.  Those  who  have 
no  seed  potatoes  from  which  to  obtain  plants 
may  procure  them  from  persons  in  N.  Y.  State, 
Ohio,  and  else^udiere,  who  raise  them  in  large 
quantities.  Tlie  plants  will  go  a  long  distance 
by  express  without  injury.  There  are  two  ways 
of  planting:  in  rows  and  in  hills.  The  ground 
being  in  good  condition,  mark  it  off  in  three 
feet  rows  and  spread  a  good  dressing  of  manure 
along  the  marks;  then  form  ridges  by  turning 
two  furrows  together  over  the  manure.  The 
ridges  should  be  10  inches  high,  a  foot  ■wide,  and 
3  or  4  inches  wide  at  top.  Set  the  plants  16 
inches  apart  in  the  ridges.  In  planting  in  hills 
the  following  directions  are  by  J.  W.  C.,  whose 
method  of  starting  the  plants  was  given  in  last 
month’s  basket.  The  manure,  about  12  loads 
to  the  acre,  is  turned  over  two  or  three  times 
before  using,  ■w'orking  in  good  soil  so  that  at  the 
final  turning  the  manure  will  be  about  one 
third  soil.  The  ground  is  plowed  and  harrowed 
and  marked  out  2h  feet  each  way.  About  two 
quarts  of  manure  are  put  at  the  crossings  of 
the  marks,  and  a  half  hill  formed  with  the  hoe. 
He  prefers  to  delay  finishing  the  hill  until  just 
at  the  time  of  setting  the  plants,  as  they  then 
have  the  benefit  of  freshly  stirred  earth.  The 
plants  are  set  from  Slay  10th  to  June  20th,  ac¬ 
cording  to  the  season.  After  the  plants  are 
set,  the  ground  is  kept  clean  by  the  horse  and 
hand  hoe.  In  setting  the  plants  in  hills  or  on 
ridges,  they  should  be  put  in  with  a  dibble  or 
trowel,  and  if  the  soil  is  at  all  dry,  the  holes 
should  be  filled  with  water  before  putting  in  the 
plants.  Set  them  as  deep  as  the  first  leaf  and 
press  the  soil  firmly  around  the  roots. — Sir.  li. 
S.  Smith,  Ashtabula  Co.,  O.,  applies  well  rotted 
manure  and  ashes,  harrowing-in  in  autumn,  and 


lets  the  land  lie  until  ready  to  transplant,  when 
he  turns  up  the  ridges  as  before  described  but 
■without  manuring  bene.ath  them.  His  rows  are 
dh  feet  apart,  and  the  plants  are  set  12  inches 
distant  in  the  rows.  He  makes  holes  an  inch 
in  diameter,  and  4  inches  deep,  fills  the  hole 
with  water  and  makes  a  mud  around  the  plant, 
but  never  presses  the  earth  against  it. — Mr.  E. 
Latham,  of  Long  Island,  recommends  cutting 
off  the  vines  when  thej'  have  reached  the  length 
of  2  feet,  and  says  he  gets  a  good  crop.  This 
practice  is  condemned  by  others,  and  our  expe¬ 
rience  has  been  that  the  most  luxuriant  vines 
yield  the  largest  potatoes  and  the  most  of  them. 
A  bushel  of  seed  w'ill  produce  from  3,000  to 
5,000  sets,  and  an  acre  requires  6,000  to  12,000 
plants,  according  to  the  manner  of  planting. 


Herbaceous  Grafting. 


In  ordinary  grafting  w’e  use  cions  of  ripe 
tvood,  of  the  previous  year’s  growth,  in  a  dor¬ 
mant  condition,  which  are  inserted  in  a  stock  of 
one  or  several  years’  growth,  and  make  the  union, 
either  when  both  stock  and  graft  are  dormant, 
or  when  the  growing  process  in  the  stock  has 
already  commenced.  In  herbaceous  grafting, 
both  stock  and  graft  are  not  only  in  the  gro^wing 
state,  but  they  are  both  of  the  present  season. 
Ordinary  grafting  is  not  successful  when  prac¬ 
tised  upon  Chestnuts,  Hickories,  and  other  hard- 
wooded  forest  trees,  and  as  herbaceous  grafting 
is  followed  in  Europe  in  propagating  these,  ■wc 
give  Du  Breuil’s  description  of  the  process,  in 
order  that  those  w'ho  wish  to  experiment  with 
it,  may  practise  it.  For  the  stock,  the  shoot  from 
a  terminal  bud  is  selected,  before  the  ■Rmod  has 
become  much  hardened.  This  is  cut  off  just 
below  the  third  or  fourth  leaf,  according  to  the 
strength  of  the  shoot.  The  cut  to  receive  the 
cion  is  made  as  shown  in  the  figure,  at  the  base 
of  the  leaf  A.  If,  as  is  often  the  case,  there  are 
three  buds  or  eyes  at  the  base  of  the  leaf,  the 
cut  is  made  between  the  central  bud  and  one  of 
the  lateral  ones.  The  cion  B,  is  cut  from  a 
shoot  of  the  same  size  as  the  stock ;  it  is  in  fact, 
a  bud  with  a  large  quantity  of  wood  and  bark 
attached,  rather  than  a  cion.  It  bears  a  leaf, 
C,  with  a  good  eye  or  bud  at  its  base.  The  cut 
surface  of  this  graft  is  carefully  applied  against 
the  cut  surface  of  the  stock,  tied  with  a  woolen 
thread,  and  shaded  from  the  sun  bj'  a  paper 
shield.  Five  daj'S  after  the  operation,  the  cen¬ 
tral  bud  at  the  base  of  the  leaf  A,  is  rubbed  out, 
and  five  days  after  this,  the  blades  of  the  two 
leaves  below  the  graft  are  cut  away,  leaving 
onl}’’  their  mid  ribs,  and  at  the  same  time  the 
buds  at  their  axils  are  removed.  If  other  buds 
appear  at  the  bases  of  these  leaves,  they  are  to 
be  removed,  and  at  twenty  days  after  the  graft 
is  inserted,  the  blade  of  the  leaf  A,  is  cut  away. 
The  graft  will  commence  to  grow  about  the  30th 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


155 


day,  when  the  tying  is  loosened,  hut  the  paper 
shelter  is  continued  for  a  week  or  two  longer. 


Hotes  on  Grapes  and  Grape  Culture. 

The  vine  has  become  so  important  as  to  de¬ 
mand  a  special  department,  and  under  this  head¬ 
ing  we  give,  from  time  to  time,  notes  of  our  own 
observations,  and  such  correspondence  on  the 
subject  as  we  think  will  interest  our  readers. 

Care  op  Vines  the  first  Season. — J.  M. 
Jordon,  nurseryman  and  vineyardist  of  St. 
Louis,  Mo.,  sends  the  following  timely  hints: 
“  Keep  the  vines  tied  up  the  first  season,  as  it  takes 
two  years  to  correct  one  year’s  neglect.  Set 
strong  stakes,  6  feet  high,  to  tie  the  vines  to,  and 
let  but  one  cane  grow.  Pinch  in  its  laterals, 
and  it  will  make  a  growth  of  4  to  8  feet,  and 
the  second  year  after  planting,  will  bear  half  a 
crop.  On  bearing  spurs,  leave  three  1  eaves  be¬ 
yond  the  last  bunch  of  grapes.  Two  bunches 
are  better  than  three  on  each  lateral.  Never 
disturb  the  inferior  roots  nor  grow  any  other 
crops  in  the  vineyard.  Stir  the  ground  frequent¬ 
ly  in  dry  weather. 

The  Mission  Grape.— A.  Taylor,  Calaveras 
Co.,  Cal.  It  will  be  of  no  use  to  send  the 
“  Mission”  or  any  other  Californian  grape  to  the 
Atlantic  States.  All  those  varieties  which  suc¬ 
ceed  so  finely  there,  are  of  European  origin, 
and  are  entirely  unsuited  to  our  climate. 

Grapes  for  Cold  Climates.— Several  cor¬ 
respondents  ask  what  grapes  they  can  raise  in 
“  this  cold  part  of  the  country.”  Doctor  J.  D. 
Newbro,  Ingham  Co.,  Mich.,  which  is  about  as 
untavorable  a  locality  for  the -grape  as  any  in 
that  State,  succeeds  well  with  the  Hartford 
Prolific,  Concord  and  Clinton.  He  says:  “the 
Clinton  is  as  hardy  as  an  oak,  bears  well  every 
year,  is  liked  by  most  people,  especially  after 
one  or  two  frosts.”  The  Clinton  we  think  has 
not  met  with  the  attention  it  deserves.  There 
is  no  doubt  about  its  great  hardiness,  and  to 
those  who  do  not  care  for  an  over-sweet  fruit, 
it  will  prove  acceptable.  The  Delaware  is  per¬ 
fectly  hardy,  but  it  is  of  rather  slow  growth 
when  young,  and  will  not  generally  give  fruit 
60  soon  as  the  varieties  above  named. 

New  Varieties. — The  attention  now  given 
to  the  production  of  new  seedlings  will  doubt¬ 
less,  in  a  few  years,  result  in  giving  us  varieties 
superior  to  any  we  now  have,  though  with  the 
Delaware,  Iona,  and  Allen’s  Hybrid  in  mind,  it 
is  difficult  to  conceive  what  direction  the  im¬ 
provements  will  take.  While  we  record  the  ac¬ 
cessions  to  the  list  of  grapes,  our  readers  are  well 
aware  that  we  exercise  great  caution  in  recom¬ 
mending  them.  In  the  last  report  of  the  Mas¬ 
sachusetts  Horticultural  Society,  the  Dana  is 
described  as  a  new  seedling,  so  nearly  resembling 
the  Rose  Chasselas  that  it  was  mistaken  for  that 
variety.  The  report  says:  “The  bunch  was 
medium  size,  shouldered,  rather  compact,  with 
a  peculiar  red  stem,  the  berries  of  rather  large 
size,  nearly  round,  red,  with  a  rich,  heavy  bloom, 
so  that  when  fully  ripe  they  appear  almost 
black ;  as  free  from  pulp  as  the  Delaware ;  not 
so  sweet,  but  more  spirited  and  vinous,  and  yet 
ffiot  an  acid  grape.”  Ripe  20th  to  25th  of  Sep¬ 
tember,  and  keeps  till  December.  This  variety 
was  raised  by  Francis  Dana,  who  also  presented 
the  Novantum,  which  is  a  black  grape  resemb¬ 
ling  the  Isabella,  but  quite  free  from  pulp.  The 
Miles  grape  is  an  early  variety  which  received 
favorable  notice  at  the  last  meeting  of  the  Amer¬ 
ican  Pomological  Society.  It  was  commended 
by  Chas.  Downing  and  others  as  a  good  grow¬ 
er,  hardy,  early,  productive  and  of  good  flavor. 


Mildew.— Dr.  Siedlioff,  an  experienced  grape 
grower  in  New  Jersey,  informs  us  that  he  com¬ 
pletely  prevents  mildew  by  a  free  use  of  sulphur, 
and  that  he  even  succeeds  in  preventing  injury 
to  the  foreign  varieties  by  this  treatment.  The 
sulphur  is  blown  over  the  vines,  three  or  four 
times  during  the  season,  by  means  of  a  bellows 
which  will  allow  the  application  of  the  sulphur 
to  the  under  side  of  the  leaves.  Dr.  S.  applies 
the  sulphur  as  soon  as  the  leaves  appear;  when 
they  are  in  blossom ;  when  the  berries  are  the 
size  of  peas,  and  as  soon  as  they  commence  to 
color.  The  same  remedy  is  said  to  drive  away 
the  thrips,  which  in  some  localities  are  very  de¬ 
structive. 


Little  Things  in  the  Garden. 


In  planting  the  family  garden,  all  the  stand¬ 
ard  vegetables  will  suggest  themselves  as  things 
necessary  to  be  provided  for,  but  much  of  the 
comfort  afforded  by  the  garden  consists  of  the 
numerous  little  things  it  affords — things  which 
in  themselves  can  hardly  be  considered  as  food, 
but  which  add  to  the  attraction  of  the  table  by 
rendering  other  food  more  palatable.  Those 
who  are  fond  of  pickles  will  in  time  provide  for 
Cucumbers,  Martynias,  Peppers,  Green  Musk 
Melons,  Refugee  Beans,  and  all  those  things 
which  are  used  for  pickling,'  not  forgetting  the 
spicy  Nasturtium.  Parsley  is  valued  by  most 
people  as  a  flavoring  herb,  and  it  is  very  handy 
to  dress  a  dish  of  cold  meat.  The  seeds  are 
very  slow  in  germinating,  and  should  be  sowed 
early.  Marjoram,  Savory  and  Thyme,  are  the 
popular  flavorings  for  soups  and  stuifings,  and 
when  cut  in  flower  and  carefully  dried,  and 
then  rubbed  up  and  put  into  an  air-tight  box  or 
bottle,  may  be  had  in  greater  perfection  than 
any  that  can  be  bought  at  the  stores.  The  first 
two  are  annuals :  sow  the  seeds  in  drills  a  foot 
apart  and  thin  or  transplant  to  six  inches  in 
the  rows.  Thyme  is  a  small  shrubby  perennial 
which  may  be  raised  from  seed  or  propagated 
by  dividing  old  plants.  There  are  very  few 
who  know  what  an  excellent  flavor  a  pinch  of 
Spearmint  gives  to  soup,  or  it  would  be  more 
generally  grown.  In  the  older  parts  of  the  coun¬ 
try  it  is  found  naturalized  in  wet  places,  but  it 
will  do  perfectly  well  in  the  garden  and  then 
we  always  know  where  to  find  it,  as  once  es¬ 
tablished  it  will  remain  for  years.  Sage  is  al¬ 
ways  in  demand  in  the  family  for  culinary  or 
medicinal  uses,  and  can  be  had  in  the  garden 
with  but  little  trouble.  Seeds  sown  this  spring 
will  give  a  fair  cutting  by  autumn.  It  is  very 
readily  raised  from  cuttings  of  old  plants.  Slip 
off  the  young  shoots  which  start  this  spring 
from  near  the  base  of  the  plant,  and  set  them  in 
sandy  soil  and  put  over  them  a  frame  covered 
with  common  muslin ;  they  will  thus  be  kept 
moist  and  shady  and  will  strike  root  readily. 


The  Preservation  of  Fruits, 


Various  plans  have  been  proposed  for  pro¬ 
longing  the  time  to  which  fruits  can  be  kept, 
but  the  only  one  which,  as  far  as  we  have  heard, 
has  been  successful  on  the  large  scale,  is  that  of 
Prof.  Nyce,  of  Cleveland,  O.  After  many  ex¬ 
periments,  he  has  settled  upon  a  preserving 
house  which  seems  to  combine  all  the  requisites 
for  keeping  fruit,  viz.,  a  low  temperature,  a  dry 
atmosphere,  and  exclusion  of  oxygen.  The 
house  is  constructed  of  double  air-tight  walls  of 
galvanized  iron,  three  feet  apart,  and  filled  in 
with  sawdust,  or  other  non-conducting  mate-  1 


rial.  The  ice  is  placed  in  a  second  story,  in  a 
mass  five  or  six  feet  thick,  and  the  fruit  is 
stored  in  the  room  below.  A  uniform  tem¬ 
perature  of  34®  is  kept  in  the  fruit  room,  and 
the  air  is  kept  dry  by  the  introduction  of  chloride 
of  calcium,  which  completely  absorbs  the  mois¬ 
ture  given  off  by  the  fruit.  This  absorbing 
material  is  not,  as  some  have  supposed,  the 
article  commonly  known  as  chloride  of  lime, 
but  is  quite  different  in  constitution  and  proper¬ 
ties.  The  chloride  of  calcium  is  a  waste  pro¬ 
duct  of  the  salt  works,  and  is  remarkable  for  the 
readiness  with  which  it  takes  up  water.  When 
the  fruit  room  is  closed,  the  fruit  absorbs 
oxygen  from  the  air,  and  gives  off  carbonic 
acid  (as  always  occurs  in  the  ripening  of  fruits), 
and  in  a  short  time  the  atmosphere  is  completely 
deprived  of  oxygen,  an  important  agent  in 
hastening  decay.  We  have  the  best  evidence 
that  apples,  pears,  and  grapes  are  kept  in  Prof. 
Nyce’s  house  with  complete  success.  Some 
grapes  -wmre  exhibited  at  the  Fruit  Growers’ 
Meeting  in  April,  which  had  been  several  days 
on  the  journey,  yet  were  as  perfect  in  flavor 
and  their  stems  were  as  green  as  if  just  removed 
from  the  vine.  We  understand  that  tomatoes, 
peaches,  and  berries  of  various  kinds  are  pre¬ 
served  in  large  cans  and  the  fruit  is  sold  out  in 
the  stores  by  the  quart.  The  subject  has  much 
interest  for  both  consumers  and  growers  of  fruit. 


The  Striped  Bug. 


This  little  beetle,  Galerwea  vittata,  is  one  of 
the  annoying  pests  of  the  garden.  It  attacks 
cucumbers,  melons,  and  all  plants  of  the  squash 
family  during  their  early  growth,  often  causing 
a  total  failure  of  the  crop.  V/e  have  publish¬ 
ed  many  of  the  “  sure  preventives”  which  have 
been  communicated  and  have  several  yet  un¬ 
published  ;  these  range  from  soaking  the  seeds 
in  turpentine,  to  sprinkling  Indian  meal  around 
the  plants.  All  the  applications  we  have  ever 
made  of  various  powders,  varying  in  potency  from 
black  pepper  to  plaster,  seem  to  have  had  only 
a  mechanical  effect.  If  the  plants  are  kept 
covered  with  any  powder,  the  insects  seem  to 
find  it  disagreeable,  and  one  powder  seems  just 
as  good  as  another.  Mr.  S.  H.  Marrows,  of 
Androscoggin  Co.,  Me.,  surrounds  his  plants  by 
boxes  or  frames,  8  inches  square  and  6  inches 
high,  and  keeps  them  there  until  the  plants 
reach  above  the  tops  of  the  boxes.  They  are 
put  on  when  the  seeds  are  planted.  Mr.  M.  at¬ 
tributes  the  failure  of  those  who  have  been  un¬ 
successful  with  this  plan,  to  the  fact  that  they 
make  their  boxes  too  large  and  put  them  on  too 
late.  With  him  “it  works  to  a  charm.”  We 
have  successfully  used  boxes  a  foot  square  and 
covered  with  some  kind  of  gauze  or  Open  fabric, 
and  found  it  the  only  effectual  method  of  keep¬ 
ing  off  the  bugs.  The  correspondent  above 
quoted  finds  it  unnecessary  to  cover  them,  and 
states  that  few  insects  get  over  the  barrier. 


Tan  B4RK  for  Potatoes. — Tan  Bark  is 
worth  hauling  three  or  four  miles  for  covering 
potatoes,  particularly  when  the  previously 
sprouted  sets  are  planted  on  heav}'-  soils.  After 
putting  the  sets  in  the  drills,  sprinkle  a  quart  or 
so  of  tan  on,  and  around  each,  and  cover  with 
earth.  This  will  keep  the  soil  loose,  and  the 
tubers  will  grow  larger  and  less  liable  to  rot. 
Sawdust  is  also  good.  On  light  soils  sawdust 
might  work  more  injury  than  benefit.  We  re¬ 
commend  a  trial  of  this  plan  in  localities  where 
potatoes  are  usually  apt  to  rot  badly. 


156 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat. 


Something^  about  Columbines, 

Every  one  knows  our  common  Columbine, 
which  delights  to  grow  on  rocky  ledges  where 
its  delicate  foliage,  and  its  slender  stems  sup¬ 
porting  the  nodding  flowers,  present  an  air  of 
grace  equalled  by  few  of  our  garden  flowers. 
The  flower  of  our  native  species,  Aquilegia  Can¬ 
adensis  is  given  in  the  engraving,  and  serves  to 
show  the  general  shape  of  the  flowers  of  all  the 
species.  The  petals  are  singularly  formed  into 
a  long  tube  which  is  usually  curved,  something 
like  the  talon  of  a  bird  of  prey,  a  peculiarity 
which  suggested  the  name  Aquilegia^  derived 
from  the  Latin  Aquila,  an  Eagle.  Our  native 
Columbine  makes  itself  quite  at  home  in  the 
garden,  and  though  the  orange  scarlet  color  of 
its  flowers  is  not  as  delicate  as  that  of  some  oth¬ 
er  species,  it  excels  them  all  in  gracefulness. 
Most  of  our  garden  Columbines  are  varieties  of 
the  European  Aquilegia  vulgaris,  and  they  pre¬ 
sent  a  great  variety  in  color  and  marking. 
Some  of  them  are  very  double,  though  to  our 
taste  the  strongly  marked  single  ones  are  m-ore 
pleasing  than  most  of  the  double  kinds.  A  v.a- 
riety  called  Jucunda  is  very  showy,  its  petals 
being  of  the  darkest  blue,  tipped  with  pure 
white.  A  striped  variety,  called  Striata,  is  cu¬ 
riously  variegated  with  stripes  and  spots.  The 
Siberian  Columbine,  Aquilegia  Siberica,  is  anoth¬ 
er  species,  and  has  vciy  dark  flowers,  erect  on 
stems  about  a  foot  high.  Tlie  seeds  of  many 
sorts  are  sold  by  tlie  seedsmen ;  they  are  to  be 
planted  in  an  out-of-the-way  bed,  and  the  plants 


transferred  to  the  borders 
in  autumn,  will  where  they 
bloom  the  following  spring. 
Plants  of  the  leading  varie¬ 
ties  can  be  obtained  from  the 
florists.  The  Columbines  are 
among  our  most  reliable  and 
attractive  herbaceous  peren¬ 
nials,  and  have  not  received 
the  attention  they  deserve. 

Pseonies. 

An  old-fashioned  flower, 
the  newer  varieties  of  which 
are  very  beautiful.  A  mass 
of  them,  of  different  colors, 
on  a  raised,  oval  bed,  is  one 
of  the  most  splendid  sights 
which  the  garden  affords. 
They  are  so  hardy,  so  afflu¬ 
ent  in  leaf  and  flower,  so 
brilliant  and  luxuriant,  that 
it  is  a  delight  to  look  upon 
them.  No  plant  is  more  easi¬ 
ly  propagated.  Divide  the 
roots  with  a  sharp  spade.  A 
single  bud,  wuth  a  piece  of 
root  attached,  will  make  a 
plant.  It  is  best  to  set  them 
out  in  the  fall,  as  they  start 
quite  early  in  the  spring. 
Give  them  a  deep,  rich  soil, 
with  a  plenty  of  room  on 
every  side.  The  different 
kinds  bloom  along  through 
May  and  June.  There  are 
two  principal  sorts,  the  herba¬ 
ceous  and  shrubby.  The  first 
includes  the  more  common 
kinds,  which  die  to  the 
ground  in  the  flill ;  the  second 
includes  the  Moutans,  or 
Tree  Paeon ies,  which  have 
woody  stalks,  often  two  or 
three  feet  high.  Of  the  herbaceons  paeonies, 
the  old  double  crimson  should  never  be  omitted 
in  a  collection.  In  color,  nothing  can  surpass 
it.  Rosea,  blanda,  and  rubra,  are  varieties  of  the 
above,  with  different  colors,  flowering  the  last 
of  May.  Tenuifolia,  or  Fennel-leaved,  is  very 
pretty,  though  not  double,  blooming  early  in 
May.  The  Chinese  Paeonies  are  another  class, 
among  which  are  some  splendid  flowers.  The 
best  of  them,  in  our  acquaintance,  are  P.  Whitleyi, 
with  large,  double  white  flowers ;  P.  Humeii, 
double,  lilac  red ;  P.  rosea,  double  rose-colored ; 
P.  Reevsii,  semi-double,  purple ;  P.  Potsii,  semi- 
double,  lilac  rose ;  P.  sulplmrea,  pale  yellow.  Of 
the  Tree  Paeonies,  the  varieties  are  many.  The 
Banhsia  is  a  general  favorite,  with  its  numerous 
large,  double  pink  flowers,  varying  on  tlie  same 
bush  to  crimson.  P. papa.veracea  has  large,  white, 
single  flowers.  Then  there  are  Alba  variegata, 
Arethusa,  Globosa,  Mirabilis,  Rosea  odorata,  and 
many  others,  which  we  cannot  now  enumerate. 


The  Black  Knot  on  Plum  Trees.— Some 
agricultural  papers,  who  ought  to  know  better, 
persist  in  stating  that  the  cause  of  this  is  not 
known,  and  others  attribute  it  to  insects,  dis¬ 
eased  sap,  and  every  cause  but  the  right  one. 
It  was  shown  very  plainly  in  the  Agriculturist 
for  April  1863,  that  this  is  a  parasitic  fungus, 
and  magnified  drawings  were  given  showing 
the  plant  and  its  method  of  reproduction.  Its 
fungoid  character  was  made  out  many  years 
ago,  but  we  believe  that  Mr.  Austin,  in  the  ar¬ 


ticle  above  quoted,  was  the  first  to  figure  the  j 
plant.  From  the  presence  of  this  parasite  the  ^ 
wood  becomes  diseased,  and  the  trouble  goes 
on  from  bad  to  worse.  Cut  out  the  knot  on  its  i 
first  appearane  down  to  the  sound  wood  and 
burn  the  qwrtion  removed. 

- «>-» — -  I 

The  Jacobean  Lily. — Amaryllis  formesissima, 

Tliis  is  one  of  our  oldest  spring  bulbs,  it  hav-  i 
ing  been  brought  from  Guatemala,  over  two  }i 
hundred  years  ago,  j'et  it  is  seldom  seen  in  cul-  i 
tivation,  though  wherever  it  finds  a  place  in  the  Ij 
garden,  it  is  always  an  object  of  well  merited  fl 
admiration.  The  bulbs  are  sold  each  spring  by  ' 
the  florists,  and  when  planted  in  pots  or  in  a  , 
rich  border  they  throw  up  a  stem  which  bears 
a  single  lily-like  flower  of  the  richest  crimson 
color.  The  engraving  shows  the  form  of  the  i 
flower  very  much  reduced  in  size.  The  flower  1 
is  bent  to  one  side ;  three  of  its  divisions  are 
curved  upward  while  the  other  three  are  bent  j 
downward,  and  near  their  base  they  are  curved  1 
inward  so  as  to  surround  tlie  pistil.  The  flow¬ 
ers  appear  in  June,  after  which  the  leaves  in-  j 
crease  in  size,  and  the  plant  should  have  good  | 
culture  until  the  leaves  wither.  Tlie  want  of  ' 
success  with  this  plant  which  is  sometimes  com-  | 
plained  of,  and  which  is  one  of  the  reasons  why  1 
we  do  not  see  it  oftener  in  our  gardens,  is  due 
to  neglect  to  provide  for  the  next  3'ear’s  bloom-  : 


Jacobean  lilt. — Amaryllis formosissima. 

ing  by  securing  a  vigorous  growth  of  leaf.  The 
bulb  will  bloom  in  poor  soil  or  even  in  sand  or 
wet  moss,  the  first  year  after  purchasing  it,  and 
will  fail  to  flower  the  following  year  for  the  rea¬ 
son  that  it  has  not  recovered  from  the  exhaust¬ 
ing  effects  of  flowering.  Give  the  bulbs  a  plen¬ 
ty  of  well  rotted  manure,  not  so  much  as  to  se¬ 
cure  a  strong  bloom,  but  to  induce  the  leaves  to 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


157 


grow  witli  vigor,  and  prepare  the  bulb  for  anoth¬ 
er  effort,  and  cultivate  and  water  in  such  a  man¬ 
ner  as  will  conduce  to  this  end.  Bulbs  are  sold 
by  the  florists  for  about  thirty  cents  each. 

- - - - - t-m - 


The  Common  Periwinkle.— (f^^cawizwo?-). 

Scarcely  any  plant  now  cultivated  in  our 
gardens  has  been  longer  known  than  the 
Periwinkle.  It  is  the  Vmca  Fervinca  of  Pliny, 
which  Latin  name  has  been  converted  into  Peri¬ 
winkle.  In  this  countiy,  the  jflaut  is  commonly 
called  Myrtle  and  Running  Myrtle,  names  which 
are  incorrect  and  should  be  dropped.  The 
plant  has  nothing  in  common  with  the  true 
Myrtle,  except  both  have  smooth,  thick,  dark 
green  leaves.  The  figure  represents  the  Small 
Periwinkle,  Vinca  minor,  which  is  much  more 
common  in  our  gardens  than  the  Greater  Peri¬ 
winkle,  Vinca  major.  The  two  resemble  one 
another  iu  general  appearance,  but  the  last 
named  has  much  larger  leaves  and  a  more 
erect  growth.  They  both  produce  au  abund¬ 
ance  of  pretty  blue  flowers.  On  account  of 
their  long,  flexible  stems,  and  bright  green  leaves, 
they  are  very  useful  in  making  up  wreaths.  In 
Italy,  the  large  species  is  called  “  flower  of  the 
dead,”  on  account  of  its  being  used  as  garlands 
at  funerals.  Both  species  are  natives  of  Europe, 
and  are  quite  hardy  iu  this  country.  Tliey  are 
evergreens,  trailing  on  the  ground,  where  the 
prostrate  stems  strike  root,  and  form  a  dense 
mat,  the  foliage  completely  concealing  the  stems 
and  the  ground.  The  plant  is  generally  put  iu 
some  out  of  the  way  corner,  and  left  to  itself, 
but  it  is  pretty  enough  to  deserve  more  care 
than  it  usually  receives.  A  mound  irlanted 
with  the  small  Periwinkle,  is  soon  covered  with 
its  rich,  dark  green  foliage,  and  forms  a  pleasing 
object.  The  plant  is  adapted  to  trail  upon  rock 
work,  and  over  the  edge  of  a  rustic  basket.  Its 
greatest  utility,  however,  is  found  in  the  fact 
that  it  flourishes  in  the  shade,  and  under  the  drip 
of  other  plants,  and  it  is  often  the  most  avail¬ 
able  thing  to  cover  bare  spots  in  those  places 
where  it  is  difficult  to  make  grass  grow.  There 
are  variegated  sorts,  of  both  species,  which  have 
their  leaves  edged  and  marked  with  white  or 
yellow.  One  of  the  best  of  these  is  called  by 
the  florists  Vinca  elcgantismna.  A  bed  of  it 
upon  a  lawn  or  elsewhere,  produces  a  fine  effect. 


TEE  E(D)UgEE(i])]L®. 


What  is  Glycerin? 


The  above  question  Is  asked  by  a  correspondent, 
and  as  its  answer  may  interest  more  than  one  read¬ 
er,  we  give  it  in  the  household  columns.  Glycerin 
is  a  remarkable  contribution  of  modern  science 
to  the  arts,  and  as  its  utility  for  different  purposes 
has  been  manifested,  corresponding  improvements 
have  taken  place  in  its  manufacture,  and  it  i!B  now 
produced  in  great  purity  and  at  moder.ate  price. 
But  this  is  not  telling  what  glycerin  is.  It  is  a 
principle  which  exists  in  fats,  and  all  fats  arc  a 
combination  of  glycerin  and  some  acid.  Lard,  after 
the  lard  oil  has  been  pressed  out,  is  mainly  a  com¬ 
pound  of  stearic  acid  and  glycerin.  In  the  process 
of  manufacturing  the  finer  kinds  of  candles,  this 
compound  is  broken  up  and  the  stearic  acid  is  used 
for  candles,  while  the  glycerin  is  purified  and  put 
into  the  market.  Glycerin  is  a  thick,  colorless 
liquid,  of  a  syrupy  consistence,  and  when  well  made 
has  no  odor.  Its  name  is  from  the  Greek  word, 
meaning  sweet,  and  indicates  one  of  its  prominent 
characters — its  sweetness.  It  is  remarkable  for  its 
undrying  qualities ;  when  spread  out  and  exposed  to 
the  air  it  remains  for  a  long  while  unchanged.  It 
mixes  readily  with  water  and  with  alcohol,  but  not 
with  oils,  and  has  a  remarkable  solvent  power  for 
man}'  substances.  It  is  largely  used  in  medicine  as 
a  solvent  for  various  drugs,  and  is  also  employed  as 
a  substitute  for  sugar  in  medicinal  preparations. 
In  domestic  use  it  forms  a  most  excellent  applica¬ 
tion  to  chapped  or  inllamed  surfaces,  as  it  keeps 
the  parts  from  the  air,  and  is  free  from  the  incon¬ 
venience  which  attends  the  use  of  oily  matters. 
Properly  diluted  with  water,  it  forms  a  popular  hair 
dressing  wliich  keeps  the  hair  moist,  and  is  much 
less  objectionable  than  many  of  the  preparations 
sold  for  the  purpose.  As  glycerin  docs  not  readily 
evaporate  nor  freeze  it  is  used  in  cities  to  put  into 
gas  meters.  It  is  also  largely  used  in  the  place  of 
mola.sses  to  mix  with  giue  to  form  the  rolls  by 
whicli  ink  is  applied  to  type.  These  are  among  the 
more  common  uses — others,  such  as  in  mounting 
microscopic  preparations,  are  of  less  genei'.al  inter¬ 
est.  Doubtless  many  other  useful  applications  will 
be  found  for  this  interesting  chemical  product. 


Mounting  Maps  and  Pictures. 


Maps  or  any  drawings  on  paper  are  rendered 
much  more  durable  if  the\’  have  a  mounting  or 
backing  of  some  kind  of  cloth.  The  operation  is  a 
very  simple  one.  The  cloth,  some  inches  larger  each 
way  than  the  p.aper,  is  tacked  upon  an  ironing  ta¬ 
ble  or  some  smooth  surface.  The  success  of  the 
operation  depends  mainly  upon  the  care  with  which 
the  cloth  is  tacked.  It  sliould  lay  square,  and  the 
tacks  be  put  iu  very  closely  along  the  edges,  not  far¬ 
ther  than  an  inch  apart.  The  selvage  will  give  but 
little  trouble,  but  the  raw  edges  will  need  to  be 
doubled  over  where  the  tacks  are  isut  in,  to  prevent 
them  from  tearing  out.  The  tacks  are  not  driven 
home,  but  are  left  with  the  heads  high  enough  to 
allow  them  to  be  removed  by  means  of  a  tack  lifter 
or  strong  knife.  The  cloth,  which  may  be  any  kind 
of  strong  cotton  fabric,  being  ready,  lay  the  map  or 
whatever  paper  is  to  be  mounted,  face  down,  on  a 
clean  surface,  and  give  its  back  a  good  coat  of  stiff 
flour  paste,  evenly  applied.  The  paste  should  be 
as  stiff  as  will  work  with  a  brush,  and  be  perfectly 
free  from  lumps.  In  applying  the  paste,  be  sure  to 
get  the  edges  well  covered,  and  if  any  lumps,  or 
hairs  from  the  brush  are  left  upon  the  surface,  re¬ 
move  them  c.arefully  by  means  of  a  case  knife  or  pa¬ 
per  folder.  The  p.aper  being  thoroughly  pasted,  let 
two  persons  take  it  by  the  four  corners  and  place 
it,  pasted  side  down,  upon  the  cloth.  With  a  little 
care  it  can  be  laid  quite  smoothly.  If  tlie  paper  is 
very  long,  let  the  centre  touch  the  cloth  first,  and 
gradually  let  the  whole  down  on  to  the  cloth. 
Then  take  a  perfectly  clean  liandkercbief  or  soft 
napkin  and  by  a  sweeping  motion  from  the  center 


to  the  edges,  press  out  any  air  bubbles  that  may 
appear,  and  see  that  the  edges  of  the  paper  are  in 
close  contact  with  the  cloth.  As  it  dries,  the  pa. 
per  will  appear  b.adly  wrinkled,  and  the  job  will 
look  like  a  failure,  but  wait  until  it  is  thouroughly 
dry,  and  if  the  tacking  has  been  well  done  and  the 
paste  good,  the  paper  will  be  perfectly  smooth. 
We  have  laid  considerable  stress  upon  the  tacking 
for  this  reason  :  When  the  p.aper  is  pasted,  it 
stretches,  and  in  this  condition  it  is  applied  t(>  the 
cloth.  As  it  dries,  it  contracts  with  a  great  deal  of 
power,  and  the  cloth  must  be  thoroughly  tacked  to 
resist  this  force.  We  have  in  this  way  mounted  a 
number  of  sheets  9  feet  long,  and  5  feet  wide,  with 
perfect  success.  When  all  is  dry,  remove  tlie  tacks 
and  cut  the  cloth  down  to  the  size  of  the  paper. 


Varnishing  Furniture. 


The  appearance  of  furniture  may  be  greatly  im¬ 
proved  by  a  coat  of  good  varnish,  which  n  skillful 
housekeeper  may  lay  on  quite  as  well  as  some 
m.anufacturers  of  furniture.  The  proper  tools  and 
materials  are  quite  as  essential  as  skill  in  order  to 
varnish  neatly.  A  clean,  light  .and  warm  room  is 
indispensable,  unless  it  can  be  done  in  the  open 
air,  in  warm  weather.  When  varnish  is  exposed 
to  sunshine  it  is  apt  to  blister.  If  applied  to 
cold  or  greasy  furniture  sometimes  it  “  crawls,” 
and  settles  down  in  ridges.  When  furniture  does 
not  take  varnish  well,  rub  it  thoroughly  with  a 
cloth  dipped  in  alcohol,  or  benzine.  Then  keep  it 
in  a  warm  room  until  all  the  wood  has  been  well 
warmed  through.  When  the  varnish  is  being  laid 
on,  let  it  be  kept  warm,  by  standing  in  a  kettle  of 
water  nearly  boiling  hot. 

Procure  a  sm.all  varniah  brush,  not  a  paint  brush, 
for  varnishing  chairs,  and  take  only  a  small  quan¬ 
tity  of  varnish  on  the  brush  at  once.  Spre.ad  it 
evenly  and  thin,  and  work  it  well  with  the  brush 
When  entirely  dry,  apply  another  thin  coat.  A  be¬ 
ginner  can  do  a  much  better  job  by  laying  on 
two  tliin  coats  than  only  one  heavy  coat. 

There  is  great  difference  in  varnish  that  is  sold 
for  a  given  kind.  Unless  one  has  tested  its  drying 
quality,  it  well  be  well  to  try  it  on  a  piece  of  cheap 
furniture,  to  ascertain  whctlicr  it  will  dry  well. 
Varnish  that  will  stick  to  every  thing  that  touches 
it,  is  a  vexatious  nuisance.  Let  such  varnish  or 
paint  be  rubbed  thoroughly  with  good  benzine, 
and  afterwards  two  coats  of  good  varni.-^h  ajiplicd. 

Walls  that  have  been  papered,  may  be  varnished 
after  a  thin  coat  of  glue-watcr  has  licen  aiiplied  to 
keep  the  varnish  from  striking  into  the  paper. 
When  varnisii  is  laid  directly  on  the  paper,  most  of 
it  will  be  absorbed,  and  there  will  be  little  gloss. 

- - - - -at  - - 

Suggestions  About  Carpets. 


Our  correspondent  “T.  G.,”  speaks  of  carpets  as 
follows:  “Carpets  are  a  nuisance  as  they  arc  or¬ 
dinarily  managed.  They  are  tacked  down  at  spring 
cleaning  and  serve  as  filters  through  which  all  the 
fine  dirt  passes  and  remains  as  a  subsoil  of  impal¬ 
pable  powder.  At  every  sweeping  some  of  the  su;-- 
face  dirt  goes  down  through  the  carpet,  and  a  por¬ 
tion  of  that  which  was  below  is  worked  up  through 
it  and  diffused  through  the  room,  and  finally  set¬ 
tles  on  the  furniture  and  iu  the  air  passages  of  the 
occupants  of  the  room.  Let  any  housekeeper — 
even  the  most  serupulously  neat,  take  up  her  car¬ 
pets  after  they  have  been  down  for  the  winter  and 
see  what  a  stratum  of  dirt  she  h.is  hem  living 
over.  It  is  a  peculiar  Americ.anism  to  have  every 
room  carpeted  ail  over.  The  carpet  is  c'  nsidered 
as  a  mark  of  respectability,  and  it  will  l  eqnire  a 
courageous  disregard  for  JIi's.  Grundy  t:,  receive 
her  in  an  uucarpeted  room.  Yet  I  believe,  that  the 
reform  will  come  at  length,  and  instead  ol  putting 
a  carpet  over  the  floor  to  cover  unsightly  carpen¬ 
ters’  work,  wo  shall  have  neatly  inlaid  floors  of  col¬ 
ored  wood,  which  c.an  be  kept  perfectly  clean  and 
look  well.  If  a  warm  place  is  needed  for  the  feet 
In  winter,  several  large  rugs  may  be  provided.  In 
one  of  the  most  cosy,  best  furnished  rooms,  i 


158 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


have  lately  seen,  the  carpet  did  not  reach  within 
two  or  three  feet  of  the  sides  of  the  room.  A  car¬ 
pet  like  this  can  be  frequently  taken  up  and  shaken, 
and  much  of  the  dust  which  annoys  the  house¬ 
keeper  be  avoided.  Who  will  inaugurate  an  eco¬ 
nomical  and  healthful  reform  and  abolish  the 
slavery  to  carpets  ?” 

Our  Bachelor’s  Wish  Realized. 

Our  bachelor’s  desire,  expressed  in  April,  that 
some  one  would  found  a  school  of  cookery,  is  at 
length  realized,  and  he  expresses  himself  as  follows  : 
“  Blessed  be  Blot,  (pronounce  that  Blow,  if  you 
please,)  for  he  has  opened  a  Cooking  Academy,  and 
some  sixty  of  the  ladies  of  New  York  attend  his 
lectures.  Now  I  find  by  accurate  computation, 
that  there  arc  to  beat  least  one  hundred  and  twenty 
people  made  happy — CO  ladies  will  gratify  CO  lords 
— by  presenting  them  with  something  eatable.  The 
thing  will  spread,  these  ladies  will  each  show  their 
friends,  and  from  this  time  we  have  hope  for  the 
American  stomach.  For  this  select  sixty  and  their 
disciples  there  will  be  no  more  beef-steaks  Biddy- 
fied  in  the  frying  pan,  and  that  which  goes  on  to 
the  fire  as  mutton,  will  not  be  leather,  when  it  comes 
to  the  table.  No  more  “  one  hundred  creeds  and 
only  one  sauce,”  for  Mr.  Blot  is  great  on  sauces. 
There  is  a  popular  erroneous  idea  in  regard  to 
French  cookery,  that  ought  to  be  dispelled.  The 
general  notion  is,  that  French  dishes  are  of  course 
complicated,  elaborate,  and  highly  seasoned ;  never 
was  a  greater  mistake.  The  French  excel  simply 
in  this  :  they  study  the  best  way  to  cook  each  thing, 
and  do  not  cook  every  thing  in  one  way.  No  more 
plain,  healthful,  and  eatable  cooking  can  be  found 
than  that  of  the  French.  They  bring  thought  and 
experience  to  the  subject,  and  the  result  is  palat¬ 
able  and  economical  food.  The  d.aily  papers  give 
accounts  of  Mr.  Blot’s  lectures,  and  I  wish  him 
much  success  in  his  enterprise,” 


Valuable  Plain  Eecipes. 

Since  the  Bachelor’s  onslaught  upon  Recipes,  in 
the  February  No.,  he  has  been  receiving  especial 
attention  from  the  ladies,  as  w-as  expected,  and  as 
he  deserved.  The  following  from  “Nymphea,” 
will  interest  the  readers  as  well  as  the  offender. 
“  I,  too,  pity  your  Bachelor  editor  of  the  House¬ 
hold  Department.  I  always  do  pity  the  bachelors 
a  little  (on  paper,),  and  to  show  the  sincerity  of  my 
commiseration  I  have  written  out  some  recipes  so 
carefully  that  I  doubt  whether  even  he  can  find 
much  in  them  to  grumble  at.  (I  am  not  certain, 
though,  that  he  will  consider  that  any  charity,  for 
I  am  privately  of  the  opinion  that  he  likes  to  grum¬ 
ble.)  First  of  all  I  would  like  to  find  fault  with 
the  millers.  I  think  they  are  about  as  blameworthy 
as  the  bakers.  For  my  part,  I  find  it  almost  impos¬ 
sible  to  get  hold  of  any  good  Corn  Meal.  This 
article  should  be  about  half  way  between  the  or¬ 
dinary  fine  meal  and  that  cal'ed  "Horse  feed,”  so 
coarse  that  when  pressed  between  the  thumb  and 
finger,  it  will  not  retain  the  impression.  Only  the 
coarsest  part  of  the  bran  should  be  removed.  This 
article  retains  its  sweetness  longer,  makes  lighter 
bread,  and  is  in  every  way  more  wholesome.  When 
I  can  not  have  my  corn  ground  to  order,  I  get  the 
best  ‘  feed  ’  and  run  it  through  a  large  iron  coffee 
mill,  or  grind  up  whole  corn  and  mix  this  co.arse 
meal  in  cqu.al  quantities  with  the  fine  meal.  This 
is  the  kind  used  in  the  following  recipes. 

UnlcaTencd  ISyc  nnal  Iiidinn  lSrea.(l. 
Take  2  parts  coarse  corn  meal,  scald  thoroughly 
with  boiling  water;  add  1  part  rye  meal  or  rye  flour, 
and  more  water  if  necessary  to  moisten  it.  Stir 
thoroughly  together.  It  should  be  made  as  stiff  as 
it  can  be  managed  with  a  large  iron  spoon.  Make 
it  into  a  loaf  three  or  four  inches  deep  and  set  it 
upon  a  stove  or  range  hot  enough  to  cook  it  slowly 
upon  the  bottom.  In  an  hour  or  more  it  will  rise 
some  and  crack  the  upper  surface  slightly.  Then 
bake  in  a  slow  oven  three  or  four  houre.  I  usually 
put  it  in  about  7  P.  M.,  let  it  acquire  a  rich  brown 
crust  by  10  o’clock,  then  cover  up  the  fire  so  that 


it  will  keep  all  night  .and  in  the  morning  1  takeout 
a  nice  warm  breakfast  loaf.  It  usually  improves  by 
keeping  three  or  four  days,  when  it  is  delicious 
sliced  and  toasted.  Many  prefer  to  have  this  bread 
sweetened  with  molasses  stirred  in  with  rye  flour. 
Well  boiled  white  beans  make  a  very  wholesome 
addition.  Even  without  these  improvements  the 
bread  is  far  better  than  the  Boston  brown  bread  of 
the  shops.  No  one  who  tries  this  recipe  thor¬ 
oughly  will  ever  again  put  in  yeast,  which  always 
sours  and  spoils  com  meal. 

BSoiJed  Iiadiasi  B*widdliiig.— (Good 
enough  for  a  bachelor.)  Scald  half  the  meal  and  add 
the  other  half,  with  cool  water  enough  to  reduce  the 
whole  to  quite  a  thick  batter.  Don’t  put  in  too 
much  salt.  Add  fruit,  dried  or  fresh,  whortleber¬ 
ries,  or  curr.auts,  or  cherries,  or  best  of  all,  dried 
pears.  Put  into  a  bag  with  room  to  swell,  drop 
into  hot  water  .and  boil  2  or  3  hours.  It  is  well  to 
put  some  bits  of  crockery  under  it  to  prevent  its 
sticking  lo  the  pot.  Then  turn  it  out  and  eat  with 
cream,  or  maple  molasses,  or  a  dressing  made  of 
the  thickened  liquor  in  which  it  was  boiled,  sweet¬ 
ened,  and  seasoned  with  a  dash  of  cinnamon.  If 
no  fruit  was  put  into  the  pudding  it  can  be  eaten 
with  a  fruit  syrup. 

Scalded  Meal  ^©lastBsy  Calse.— Scald 
half  the  meal  and  add  the  other  half  "with  cold  wa¬ 
ter  sufficient  to  make  a  b.atter,  the  required  con¬ 
sistence  of  which  will  vary  with  different  kinds  of 
me.al.  “  Bake  before  the  fire  on  the  middle  piece 
of  the  head  of  a  particukar  kind  of  flour  barrel.” 
Or  if  th.at  can  not  be  obtained  ladies  may  try  it  on 
shallow  tins  in  a  quick  oven. 

Wlaeatt  aaad  Imdiaii  Cake. — Scald  one 
part  Indian  meal  as  above,  add  one  part  wheat 
meal  (Graham  flour)  with  water  sufficient  to  make 
a  thick  batter.  Drop  by  the  spoonful  on  a  large 
p.an,  or  into  muffin  rings,  and  bake  in  a  quick  oven. 
When  taken  out,  cover  close  for  20  or  30  minutes. 
This  makes  a  most  wholesome  and  pal.at.able  bread, 
much  fighter  than  the  Johnny  cake,  and  much  bet¬ 
ter  when  cold.  It  is  also  very  nice  when  rye  is 
substituted  for  wheat  me.aL 

Apple  asad  fi®ie  Stewed  dried 

apples,  especially  sweet  apples,  are  greatly  improved 
by  the  addition  of  or  of  the  quantity  of  pie¬ 
plant,  either  fresh,  dried  or  canned.  {Mem.  Be  sure 
to  put  up  a  few  cans  of  pie-plant  in  its  season.) 

IBye  aiad  iBadiani  Apple  l®sid«liiis;. — 
Take  the  crusts  of  your  rye  and  Indkan  loaf  and 
steep  them  slowly  in  apple  sauce  until  thoroughly 
softened.  This  makes  a  delicious  side  dish  to  eat 
with  beans,  or  it  may  serve  as  a  dessert  to  a  hearty 
farmer’s  dinner. 

- »  »■ 

ISags  for  Keepiaag  Manas.— T.  R.ay- 
mond  of  Fairfield  County,  Ct.,  writes:  “  In  the 
March  number  of  the  Agriculturist  I  find  three 
ways  for  ‘  keeping  smoked  meats  in  Summer;’  lot 
me  add  a  fourth.  Take  old  muslin  or  any  kind  of 
fabric,  make  a  bag  sufficiently  large  to  admit  the 
ham  easily,  wet  it  thoroughly  in  pork  or  other 
strong  brine,  wring  and  dry  it ;  repeat  this  once  or 
twice,  then  when  it  is  dry,  drop  the  ham,  (which 
must  have  a  cord  attached  to  hang  it  by)  into  the 
bag,  tie  the  mouth  closely  around  the  cord,  and 
hang  in  a  dry  place.  If  the  meat  does  not  come 
out  all  right,  do  not  charge  it  to  the  flies.”  An  ad¬ 
ditional  precaution  practised  by  some  is  to  wrap 
the  meat  in  brown  paper  before  inclosing  in  the  b.ag. 


Double  Heeling  a  Stocking.— Knit  the  first 
stitch,  slip  off  the  next  without  knitting,  knitting 
every  alternate  stitch  on  the  right  side  of  heel,  and 
every  stitch  when  knitting  on  the  wrong  side. 
This  makes  the  heel  very  thick. 

■  ■  ■  ■  »  I  —  I  ' 

Family  Jars. — “Jars  of  jelly,  jars  of  j.am,  jars 
of  potted  beef  and  ham,  jars  of  early  gooseberry, 
nice  jars  of  mince-meat,  jars  of  spice,  jars  of 
orange  marmalade,  jars  of  pickles,  all  home-m.ade, 
jars  of  cordial,  home-made  wine,  jars  of  honey 
superfine — would  the  only  jars  were  these,  that 
were  found  in  families.” 


Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 

Cooking  wajHaoMt  MilSs. — A  Califoniia 
subscriber  “Aunt  Lina,”  who  lives  where  milk  is 
scarce,  contributes  the  following  to  the  Agricultur¬ 
ist.  “  Tea  Cakes. — Stir  to  a  cream  teacupfuls  of 
sugar,  teacupful  butter,  half  a  nutmeg.  Then 
add  1  teacupful  of  water,  2  teaspoonfuls  of  cream 
of  tartar,  1  teaspoonful  of  soda,  to  1  quart  of  flour, 
which  should  be  put  through  a  seive.  Add  flour 
till  stiff  enough  to  roll  thin  ;  cut  into  cakes,  bake 
in  buttered  pans,  in  a  quick  oven.  This  is  econom¬ 
ical,  at  least  in  California,  where  eggs  are  from  75 
cents  to  $1  per  dozen,  and  milk  scarce. 

“  Pum'KiN  Am>  Squash  Pies,  c.an  be  prepared  also 
without  milk  by  using  water  and  corn  starch,  say 
for  3  pies,  2  teacupfuls  of  pumpkin,  2  eggs,  2  table¬ 
spoonfuls  of  corn  starch,  allspice,  and  sugar  to  taste, 

“  Custard  Pies,  4  eggs,  4  tablespoonfuls  corn 
starch,  2  teacups  water,  sugar  and  nutmeg  to  taste : 
this  will  make  2  pies.  Mix  the  starch  with  a  small 
quantity  of  the  water.  Custards  may  be  made  in 
the  same  way.  I  use  Oswego  corn  starch.  Ruta¬ 
bagas  cost  less  per  lb.  than  pumpkins  or  squashes, 
with  us,  and  make  good  pies,  .also  carrots  and  pars¬ 
nips,  by  using  the  s.ame  as  pumpkin,  with  the  ad¬ 
dition  of  a  little  flour,  molasses  and  ginger.” 

CBraliam  ISiscusit. — “  Lizzie”  writes  that 
these  arc  recommended  by  a  bachelor,  and,  there¬ 
fore,  must  be  good.  Wet  up  Graham  flour  with 
cold  water,  adding  a  little  salt,  knead  as  stiff  as 
possible,  make  into  small  biscuits,  and  bake  in  a 
very  hot  oven. 

E*o©i"  Mam’s  I*ei«l4lisiig. — Three  teacup¬ 
fuls  flour,  one  teacupful  milk,  one  of  chopped 
r.aisins,  one  of  suet,  one  of  molasses,  one  teaspoon¬ 
ful  saleratus,  nutmeg.  Put  in  a  bag  and  boil  an 
hour  and  a  half.  Serve  with  sauce  to  taste. 

SteasM  l®M«ldiBiig. — Two  cups  flour,  one  of 
milk,  one-half  cup  each  of  molasses,  chopped 
raisins  and  suet,  one  egg,  one  teaspoonful  saleratus, 
one-half  teaspoonful  soda.  Steam  one  hour. 

Mock  Spomg’c  Calce. — Two  cups  flour, 
one  of  sugar,  one  of  milk,  one  egg,  one  teaspoonful 
saleratus,  two  teaspoonfuls  cream  of  tartar. 

Ajjple  oBonatlBam. — Fill  a  baking  dish  % 
full  of  sliced  tart  apples,  sweeten  to  taste;  mix 
wheat  meal  with  water  and  milk  (a  little  cream  will 
m.ake  it  more  tender)  into  a  b.atter,  pour  over  the 
fruit  until  the  dish  is  full.  Bake  until  the  crust  is 
of  a  h.andsome  brown  color. 

B®o4a4;o  Cake. — Contributed  by  Miss  Loui¬ 
sa  J.  Wilson.  Take  a  dozen  of  cold  boiled  potatoes 
and  mash  them,  add  a  small  piece  of  dough,  one  egg, 
and  a  little  salt.  Work  it  well  with  flour,  cut  iu 
squares,  let  it  stand  to  rise,  and  bake  half  an  hour 
in  moderate  oven. 

Ilreakfast  Calse. — Contributed  by  Mrs. 
A.  H.  Bryant.  Take  1  quart  sifted  flour,  1  table¬ 
spoonful  of  butter,  8  teaspoonfuls  of  baking  pow¬ 
der  (which  is  soda  and  cream  of  tartar  properly 
combined),  mix  these  thoroughly  into  the  flour 
with  a  tablesj)oonful  of  6ug.ar,  then  add  2  well  beat¬ 
en  eggs,  .and  sweet  milk  sufficient  to  form  a  thin 
batter.  Bake  in  a  moderately  hot  oven  ;  and  with 
a  cup  of  coffee  or  cocoa  and  a  boiled  egg  you  will 
find  you  have  made  a  good  breakfast. 

I^'ice  BSi-cakfast  Slice  a  few  cold 

biscuit,  or  some  dry  light  bread,  fry  them  slightly, 
in  a  little  butter,  or  nice  gr.avy.  Beat  3  or  4  eggs, 
with  half  a  teacupful  of  new  milk,  and  a  pinch  of 
salt.  When  the  bread  is  hot,  pour  the  eggs  over  it, 
and  cover  fora  few  minutes,  stir  slightly,  so  that  .all 
the  eggs  may  be  cooked.  This  is  a  nice  dish,  be¬ 
sides  saving  the  dry  bread. 

Substitute  for  Cream,  for  puddings, 
cold  rice,  etc.  Boil  %  of  a  pint  of  sweet  milk, 
new  milk  is  best.  Beat  the  yolk  of  1  egg,  and  a  lev¬ 
el  teaspoonful  of  flour,  with  sugar  enough  to  make 
the  cream  very  sweet.  When  the  milk  boils,  stir 
this  into  it,  and  let  it  begin  to  simmer,  stirring  it, 
let  it  cool  and  flavor  to  taste.  For  any  pudding  in 
which  eggs  are  used,  this  is  almost  as  good  as  rich 
cream  (which  many  prefer  to  any  other  dressing), 
and  much  better  than  thin  cream. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


159 


9&u.sl<is. — One  pint  milk,  one  enp  yeast,  one 
Clip  sugar,  one  cup  lard,  one  egg.  Add  the  egg 
and  sugar  after  raising  once. 

S*op-C!orii  F'oitltlimg'. — Soak  2  quarts  of 
pop-corn,  broken  fine,  in  3  pints  of  milk  over  night ; 
in  the  morning  add  3  beaten  eggs  and  a  little  salt 
and  nutmeg.  Bake  the  same  as  a  custard. 


'JTSie  dood  News. 


“Richmond  Is  Ours!” — “Lee  has  Surrendered!” — 
“  Peace  is  Near  !”  These  welcome  words  still  ring  in 
the  ears  and  gladden  tlie  hearts  of  all  men,  vromen,  and 
children.  April  will  henceforth  be  more  than  ever  a  his¬ 
toric  month  in  the  Republic.  It  saw  the  fall  of  Sumter, 
it  now  hails  the  fall  of  the  Confederacy.  The  “boys” 
will  come  home  again,  and  many  a  household  will  be 
made  happy.  These  war-worn  veterans  will  everywhere 
be  honored  ;  under  God  they  have  saved  the  country  from 
Rebellion  and  anarchy.  What  stories  thev  will  have  to 
tell  of  camp  life,  of  weary  marches,  fierce  battles,  and 
glorious  victories.  Tens  of  thousands  of  our  young 
readers  will  share  the  joy  which  our  heroes  will  bring 
home.  “  Father  is  aw.ay  at  the  war,”  has  often  been 
noticed  in  the  letters  sent  to  the  Agriculturist,  and  we 
rejoice  in  the  happiness  in  store  for  those  who  will  ere 
long  receive  their  loved  ones.  Some,  alas  !  will  not  re¬ 
turn.  They  sleep  in  southern  soil,  martyrs  to  their 
country’s  cause.  A  terrible  price  has  been  paid  for  Union 
and  Liberty,  but  the  blessings  bequeathed  to  their  country 
by  those  who  have  fallen,  are  beyond  price.  All  honor 
to  those  who  have  suffered  more  than  death  in  the  loss 
of  their  heart’s  treasures.  None  love  their  country  better 
than  those  who  have  given  most  for  it.  and  they  too  re¬ 
joice  to  know  that  the  sacrifice  has  not  been  in  vain. 
Shall  these  be  forgotten  ?  If  there  be  a  soldier’s  widow 
or  orphan  in  your  neighborhood,  see  to  it  that  they  ever 
have  special  regard.  We  shall  not  deserve  the  blessings 
of  peace,  if  we  forget  to  care  for  those  by  whose  anguish 
it  was  won.  And  let  none  neglect  to  praise  the  Ruler  of 
Nations,  for  these  days  of  joy.  We  can  never  forget  the 
scene  when  news  of  the  fall  of  Richmond  was  received 
in  New-York,  and  thousands  were  g.athered  in  Wall 
Street,  the  great  commercial  heart  of  the  nation.  After 
singing  patriotic  songs,  listening  to  stirring  speeches  and 
cheering  for  hours,  the  whoie  assembly  reverently  remov¬ 
ed  their  hats,  and  joined  in  singing  again  and  again 
“  Praise  God  from  whom  all  blessings  flow.”  It  was  a 
fitting  key  note  for  the  songs  of  the  nation. 

tlie 

How  many  hairs  on  your  head  ?  The  number  varies 
with  different  persons  ;  the  average  is  stated  on  good  au¬ 
thority  to  be  293  hairs  to  every  quarter  of  a  square  inch  ; 
fi  om  this  each  can  calculate  somewhere  near  the  sum  of 
his  own.  Flaxen  hairs  are  finest,  browm  and  red  next, 
and  black  the  coarsest.  A  space  containing  147  black 
would  be  occupied  by  162  brown,  or  182  flaxen  hairs. 
Each  hairsprings  from  a  root  imbedded  in  the  skin.  The 
outside  is  composed  of  horny  scales  overlapping  each 
other  tike  shingles  on  a  roof,  though  not  with  the  same 
regularity,  and  these  scales  form  a  tube  enclosing  a  mar¬ 
rowy  pith.  The  hair  of  different  races  of  men,  varies  in 
structure  as  well  as  in  color  ;  thus  that  of  the  negro  may 
be  felted,  that  is,  formed  into  a  solid  compact  mass  like 
cloth.  This  property  is  owing  to  the  prominence  of  the 
scales  composing  it.  Straight  hair  is  nearly  round,  curly 
hair  is  more  flattened,  the  most  so  in  the  negro,  whose 
hairs  are  nearly  flat  ribbons.  The  different  colors  de¬ 
pend  on  minute  particles  of  coloring  matter  within  the 
hair ;  age,  sickness,  severe  mentai  exercise,  or  sudden 
fright  may  destroy  the  coloring  matter,  and  cause  the 
hair  to  turn  gray.  In  animals  having  “  whiskers.”  as  the 
cat,  tiger,  rat,  etc.,  the  hairs  are,  supplied  with  nerves, 
which  render  them  very  delicate  “  feelers,”  by  which 
they  are  aided  in  stealing  on  their  prey.  In  passing 
through  narrow  spaces,  these  give  notice  if  the  opening 
be  not  large  enough  to  admit  the  animal’s  body.  In  some 
forms  of  disease  the  human  hair  becomes  extremeiy  sen¬ 
sitive  at  the  roots,  and  liable  to  bleed.  Frequent  cutting 
causes  it  to  grow  coarser,  but  not  more  thickly,  and 
those  who  desire  to  retain  soft  silky  beards  should  not 
shave  at  all.  Oils,  pomades,  and  such  pr  eparations  clog 
the  pores  of  the  scalp  and  prevent  the  healthy  growth  of 
the  hair;  washing  the  scalp  with  water  and  thoroughly 
drying  with  a  towel,  will  keep  it  in  excellent  condition. 
Human  hair  is  an  important  article  of  trade,  tons  of  it 
being  sold  every  year.  In  large  districts  of  Europe  the 
peasant  girls  are  shorn  of  their  locks  annually,  receiving 
from  two  to  twenty  dollars  each  for  the  crop.  Most  of 
this  is  used  by  those  who  can  not  grow  enough  of  their 
own,  some  of  it  for  making  jewelry  and  other  ornaments. 


ISe  Acquainted  witli  yonr  Neiglibors. 

Thousands  of  carpenters,  tailors,  masons,  spinners  and 
weavers,  diggers,  and  other  mechanics  are  at  work  In  the 
country,  with  whom  only  a  few  persons  are  well  ac¬ 
quainted,  yet  they  are  next  door  neighbors  to  most  of  our 
young  readers.  This  is  the  more  strange  because  many 
of  them  have  very  mischievous  habits.  We  have  known 
a  company  of  them  enter  an  orchard,  attack  the  best 
trees,  bore  them  full  of  holes  and  entirely  destroy  them. 
Others  dig  around  the  choicest  vegetables  and  so  mutilate 
the  roots  that  they  are  made  worthless.  Fruit,  vegetables 
and  flowers  of  every  kind  suffer  from  their  operations ; 
whole  fields  of  wheat  are  stolen,  and  extensive  forests 
are  ruined  by  these  marauders.  Of  course,  insects  are 
the  neighbors  we  are  writing  about.  Every  one  of  them 
is  a  most  interesting  object  of  study,  and  if  our  young 
readers  will  take  pains  enough  they  may  find  almost  all 
trades  represented  among  these  tiny  creatures.  One  kind 
of  wasp  is  a  mason,  that  builds  a  very  complete  mud  cell 
for  its  young,  lays  its  eggs,  and  then  packs  it  with  spiders 
which  it  has  stung  enough  to  benumb  but  not  kill  them ; 
so  that  they  remain  torpid  until  the  following  year,  when 
the  young  wasps  hatch  out  and  find  an  abundant  supply 
of  ready  prepared  fresh  spiders’  meat,— just  the  food  they 
like.  Another  species  of  wasp  is  a  paper  maker  ;  so  is 
the  hornet.  A  kind  of  bee  with  its  tiny  shears  cuts  out 
circular  bits  of  leaves  as  true  as  though  they  were  mark¬ 
ed  with  a  pair  of  compasses,  and  uses  them  in  construct¬ 
ing  its  nest.  Thousands  of  worms  and  caterpillars  spin 
curious  bed  clothing  in  which  they  tuck  themselves  snug¬ 
ly  and  sleep  through  the  coldest  winters.  The  common¬ 
est  insect,  if  watched  day  by  day,  will  do  many  things  that 
will  surprise  and  interest  the  observer.  Some  repulsive 
looking  bugs,  that  giris  and  boys  would  either  kill  outright 
or  run  away  from,  are  real  friends  in  the  garden,  where 
they  feed  upon  other  insects  that  would  destroy  plants. 
Begin  with  some  one  common  insect,  watch  it  through 
all  its  changes  from  craw'ling  caterpillar  to  butterfly ; 
notice  what  it  eats,  study  its  habits,  and  if  possible  at  the 
same  lime  read  some  book  describing  what  others  have 
observed  about  it,  and  you  may  not  only  find  great  pleas¬ 
ure,  but  perhaps  be  able  to  tell  the  world  something  new. 


ScSIisSamcss  B^voperly  BEewarfled. 

It  is  related  of  an  English  Judge  that  being  about  to 
hold  his  court  at  a  distant  point,  his  wife  desired  to  ac¬ 
company  him.  He  gave  permission,  provided  she  would 
carry  no  band-boxes  in  the  carriage,  as  he  greatly  disliked 
them.  The  day  after  starting,  happening  to  place  his 
foot  under  the  opposite  seat,  it  struck  against  one  of  the 
forbidden  articles  stowed  there.  Without  a  word  the 
judge  seized  the  offending  bandbox  and  threw-  it  out  of 
the  window.  The  coachman  seeing  it  fall,  stopped,  and 
the  footman  started  to  pick  it  up.  “  Drive  on”  '  furiously 
shouted  the  judge,  and  the  box  was  left  by  the  roadside. 
When  at  their  destination,  the  judge  proceeded  to  array 
himself  in  his  robes  of  office,  and  when  nearly  ready 
called  out,  impatiently,  “Now  then  where’s  my  wig?” 
“  Your  lordship  threw  it  out  of  the  window,”  was  the  re¬ 
ply.  Probably  he  was  a  little  less  hasty,  if  not  less  self¬ 
ish  after  this  occurrence. 

Advice  for  Bovs. — “You  are  made  to  be  kind,  gener¬ 
ous  and  magnanimous,”  says  Horace  Mann.  “  If  there 
is  a  boy  in  school  who  has  a  club-foot,  don’t  let  him  know 
you  ever  saw  it.  If  there  is  a  boy  with  ragged  clothes, 
don’t  talk  about  rags  in  his  hearing.  If  there  is  a  lame 
boy  assign  him  some  part  of  the  game  which  does  not 
require  much  running  If  there  is  a  dull  one,  help  him 
to  get  his  lesson.” 

My  Mother. — A  Sunday-school  teacher,  speaking  one 
day  to  his  children  upon  the  depravity  of  the  human 
heart,  asked  them  if  they  knew  any  one  who  was  always 
good.  One  of  the  class,  prompted  by  simple  and  child¬ 
like  affection,  instantly  replied,  “Yes,  sir, — my  mother.” 

Answers  to  ProlKlems  nnsl  I*nz*Ies. 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
April  number,  page  125.  No.  135.  Illustrated  Rebus.-~ 
Play  in  D  eel  in  g  eyes  a  jew  well ;  or.  Plain  dealing  is  a 
jewel. ...  No.  136.  French  Riddle, — The  translation  is,  I 
am  captain  of  twenty  four  soldiers.  Without  me  Paris 
would  be  taken.  Answer,  the  letter  A :  without  which 
Ports  would  be  pris  (taken). ...No.  137.  Latin  Sentences, 
—I,  The  horse  is  in  the  stable,  but  he  does  not  eat.  2, 
Hasten  mother,  the  sow  is  eating  apples.  3,  He  fights 

battles  with  the  fist _ No.  138.  Illusdrated  Rebuses, — 

Fig.  1,  J'aime  in  six  lances,  or  J'aime  in  silence,  which 
signifies,  I  love  in  silence.  Fig.  2,  Little  and  often  fills 

the  purse _ No.  139.  C'Aorode.^The  word  co-nun-drum. 

No.  140.  Conundrum, — The  Israelite .No.  141.  Word 

Puzzle. — Pox  beheaded  leaves  ox _ No.  142.  Illustrated 

Rebus. — He  hoo  swim  e  in  s  in  will  s  ink  in  s  or  row  ;  or 


He  who  swims  in  sin,  will  sink  in  sorrow _ No.  143. 

Geographical  Names. — 1,  Liverpool ;  2,  Kingston  ;  3, 

Warsaw ;  d,  Mississippi _ No.  144  and  145. — No  answers 

received  ;  try  again - No.  146.  Planting  Problem.— The 

accompanying  figure  gives 
the  method  of  placing  the 
trees.  The  following  sent 
correct  answers  up  to  April 
10th.  Samuel  M.  Hender¬ 
son,  124,  127,  128,  133,  134 ; 

George  H.  Ensign,  128,  130; 

“  P.  J.  E.,”  124,  127  (the  sap 
runs  up) ;  C.  J.  Darrah,  125, 

131 ;  W’m.  Dale,  125,  131 ; 

M.  E.  Dale,  124,  127  ;  Charles  L.  Spooner,  124,  126, 127, 
128,  131,  132,  133;  Wm.  R.  Butler,  124,  127,  128,  133,  134 
John  J.  Collins,  124,  127,  128  ;  Fleming  Ratcliff,  124,  127, 
128;  “Harry,”  132;  “  P.  B.  P.  &  Co.,”  124,  127,  128, 
Coidelia  Baker,  126,  127 ;  George  Streunnell,  124,  127 
J.  H.  Getty,  119,  I3I ;  Bernard  McGinity,  127,  128,  133  , 
“  L.  G.  IL,”  124,  127,  128,  129,  130,  131 ;  Royal  S.  Owen, 
127;  D.  Griffith,  117,  119,  125,  126,  128 ;  L.  F.  Beard,  121  , 
Wm.  F.  Harvey,  124, 126,  127,  128,  133,  134  ;  “  Boy  Farm¬ 
er,”  124;  “Wilkie,”  1.36;  E.  Prevost,  136,  138;  Annette 
B.  P.  Taylor,  127  ;  “  Little  Boy,”  121,  137  ;  Isaac  C.  Mar- 
tiiidale,  135,  137,  138,  141.  142,  143,  146  ;  Herbert  Walker, 
124,  128,  130  ;  W.  S.  Scott,  139,  141  ;  Wm.  Nicholson,  141 ; 
Albert  Whitehead,  135,  142,  143;  “J.  D.  R.,”  136,  141: 
Hasty,  141,  143 ;  Luman  Sloan,  121  ;  Capt.  S.  Whiting, 
27  C.  B.  Watson,  136  ;  Henry  Wheeler,  139,  141. 

New  I^uzzle.s  to  Ije  Aiaswei*e«l. 

No.  147.  ProWem.— Proposed  by  A.  S.  Weeks.  Draw  a 

- - -  figure  like  the  illustration, 

each  division  to  be  square, 
and  the  side  of  the  smaller 
part  to  be  just  half  the  side 

-  of  the  larger  portion.  How 

ean  this  figure  be  cut  into  3 

_  pieces,  which  can  be  placed 

to  form  an  exact  square  ? 

No.  148.  Curious  Sentences. — Construct  a  question  and 
answer  which  together  will  contain  thirty  words,  more 
than  half  of  which  shall  be  the  same  word  repeated,  and 
half  the  remainder,  another  word  repeated. 


No.  149.  Illustrated  Rebus, — Good  advice  for  all. 


No.  150.  Word  Puzzles. — 1,  Behead  every  thing,  and 
leave  nothing.  2,  Behead  a  weapon,  and  leave  a  fruit. 
3,  Behead  a  perfume,  and  leave  a  coin.  4.  Behead  a  seed, 
and  leave  a  grain. 

No.  151.  Anagrams. — 1,A  dry  toil.  2,  To  gain  rules. 
8,  I  call  my  gin  tea.  4,  Lo  !  I  read  it. 

No.  152.  French  Riddle. — Je  suis  la  chose  du  monde 
la  plus  sainte  ;  otez  inon  cceur,  et  je  suis  le  plus  amere. 


No.  153.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Suited  to  the  times. 


No.  154.  Mathematical  Problem. — Contributed  by  “  H. 
N.  B.”  A  tin  pail  with  sloping  sides  measures  14  inches 
in  diameter  across  the  top,  10  inches  across  the  bottom, 
and  is  12  inches  deep  (perpendicularly).  If  2  gallons  of 
water  be  poured  into  this  pail,  what  will  be  the  depth  of 
the  water? 

No.  155.  Mathematical  Problem. — At  the  beginning  of 
winter  a  man’s  stock  of  animals  and  his  hay  were  of 
equal  value.  When  two  sevenths  of  the  winter  were 
gone,  thiee-elghths  of  the  hay  were  consumed.  What 
portion  of  his  stock  should  have  been  exchanged  for  hay 
at  the  commencement  of  winter,  so  that  the  increased 
hay  would  last  the  diminished  stock  the  whole  winter. 


160 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


THE  YOUNG  PERFORMERS.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Al»OMt  lAeeiDiies:  fllic  BBaBssaace. 

The  lad  in  tlie  pioliire  is  trying  an  experiment  in  Nat¬ 
ural  Philosophy,  though  perliaps  he  is  only  thinking  of 
playing.  He  is  showing  his  younger  brollier  and  sisters 
now  he  can  make  things  slanil  up,  as  he  saw  a  man  do  at  an 
exhibition.  His  brother  has  just  had  ?  olovv  from  the 
falling  umbreila,  not  hard  enough  to  hin  iiim  much,  but 
it  makes  him  scratch  his  head  as  thou  ,  he  liad  a  new 
idea  about  science.  The  little  sister  as  been  training 
her  doll  to  do  the  same  thing,  but  she  ,ould  only  make  it 
sit  up  and  hold  the  sun-shade,  and  now  she  is  trying  the 
experiment  for  herself.— It  is  easy  to  learn  to  balance 
things  on  the  liaml,  or  on  the  chin  as  this  boy  is  doing. 
The  one  thing  necessary  is  to  keep  the  cenler  of  weight, 
usually  called  the  center  of  gravity,  directly  over  the 
base  or  part  on  which  the  balanced  article  rests.  The 
umbrella  is  held  upright  more  easily  when  open,  because 
the  wide-spread  top  is  partly  supported  by  the  air.  It  is 
more  difficult  to  learn  to  balance  one's  sell,  yet  by  prac¬ 
tice,  men  are  finally  able  to  walk  on  very  narrow  places, 
such  as  the  edge  of  a  thin  board  or  rope.  Some  of  our 
young  readers  may  remember  the  foolish  perfoi'mances  of 
Blondin,  who  perilled  his  life  by  crossing  Niagara  on  a 
rope.  He  carried  with  him  a  long  heavy  poI"".  which  he 
moved  from  side  to  side  as  it  became  jiecessary  to  keep 
the  center  of  gravity  directly  above  his  feet. 

The  hardest  task  of  all  is  for  a  child  or  man  to  keep 
the  character  rightly  balanced.  Selfishness,  pride,  vanity, 
anger,  or  any  other  passion,  if  not  kept  in  proper  bounds, 
will  Xe-p  a  man  from  being  upright.  If  a  boy  learns  to 


walk  fearlessly  and  safely  upon  a  narrow  footing,  it  may 
possibly  be  of  service  to  him  a  very  few  times  in  life  j 
but  almost  every  day  there  will  come  temptations  to 
wrong-doing,  the  path  will  be  very  narrow,  and  unless 
one  learns  and  practices  walking  straight  ahead  with  a 
firm  step,  lie  will  meet  with  many  ruinous  falls. 

New  Yorls:  City  «t  NigBat. 

New  York  never  sleeps.  It  is  less  noisy,  and  in  most 
parts  less  busy  at  night  than  by  daylight,  but  at  no  hour 
of  the  twenty  four  is  there  the  quiet  hush  w  hich  in  the 
country  tells  that  man  and  beast  are  resting.  All  through 
the  many  miles  of  streets  gas  lamps  are  blinking,  like 
eyes  weary  with  watching,  but  w  hich  must  rot  close,  and 
there  is  light  enough  for  those  who  will  or  who  must 
work  while  others  sleep.  These  lights,  seen  from  some 
point  where  the  eye  can  take  in  one  or  more  long  rows 
of  them,  are  a  fine  display  of  fireworks.  They  appear 
very  beautiful  to  a  person  sailing  past  the  city  on  the  Hud¬ 
son,  or  the  East  River  ;  line  after  line  of  them  seem  to  be 
marching  and  wheeling,  like  some  vast  army  with  torch¬ 
es,  out  on  a  night  expedition.  Viewed  from  a  hight  like 
Trinity  Church  steeple.  New  York  at  night  seems  to  be 
mapped  out  with  boundaries  and  divisions  of  fire,  or  as  a 
poetic  friend  says,  like  the  Queen  of  America  blazing 
with  jewels. — Until  near  midnight,  the  streets  having 
places  of  amusement  are  very  lively.  Carriages  roll  to 
and  fro,  or  stop  to  leave  or  take  up  their  g.ay  occupants. 
Often  at  the  opening  or  near  the  close  of  some  speci.al 
entertainment,  hundreds  of  coaches  extend  for  several 


blocks  up  and  down  the  adjoining  streets,  the  drivers, 
joking,  laughing,  shouting  and  quarreling.  Thousands 
of  old  and  young  seek  pleasure  at  the  numberless  places 
opened  for  their  gratification  and  their  money.  From 
eight  to  eleven  o’clock,  gaiety  is  at  its  hight.  Begin¬ 
ning  at  Barnum’s  Museum,  the  great  attraction  in  the 
lower  part  of  the  city,  and  walking  up  Broadway  two 
miles,  scarcely  a  block,  but  has  some  place  for  pleas 
ure  seeking.  Most  of  these  are  drinking  saloons,  some 
of  them  of  the  vilest  kind.  It  is  sad  to  see  the  throngs  of 
young  men  here  bartering  away  their  characters  and 
future  prospects,  for  a  few  brief  moments  of  hilarity. 

Toward  midnight  the  pleasure  seekers  in  the  streets 
decrease,  although  hundreds  yet  linger  around  the  sa¬ 
loons,  many  of  which  do  not  close  until  one  or  two 
o’clock  in  the  morning.  But  these  are  not  the  only  ones 
astir  at  the  late  hours  of  night.  Bright  lights  stream  from 
the  upper  windows  where  printers  are  busy  preparing  the 
morning  papers  j  gangs  of  sweepers  are  at  work  in  the 
streets  ;  policemen  and  private  watchmen  are  pacing 
back  and  forth  to  look  out  for  fires,  thieves,  and  dis¬ 
turbers  of  the  peace  ;  cars  o.i  the  street  railroads  are 
running,  and  thus  all  night  long  tt.c.e  is  moving  life  in 
the  streets.  Some  are  willing  and  many  are  compelled 
to  turn  night  into  day  to  get  a  living,  but  few  can  do  so 
without  shortening  their  lives.  N’"^  .c  was  made  for  rest, 
but  “  man  made  the  town,”  and  night  and  many  other 
wise  arrangements  of  Providence  are  set  aside,  and  will 
be,  while  so  many  prefer  the  excitements  of  city  life  to 
the  healthful  quiet  of  the  country. 

Maltcisig  a  T'all  Maa  Slaort. 

This  very  laughable  performance  was  i-ecently  de¬ 
scribed  in  that  entertaining  Monthly,  the  Northern  Maga¬ 
zine,  from  which  the  accompanying  illustration  is  taken. 
The  man  or  boy  to  be  dwarfed  leaves  the  room  with  two 
assistants.  The  trick  requires  two  light  poles  about  six 
feet  long,  two  pillows,  a  sheet,  and  a  pair  of  boots.  The 
dwarf  (to  be,)  first  thrusts  each  arm  into  one  of  the  boots, 
then  one  of  the  poles  is  laid  on  each  of  his  shoulders  and 
also  on  the  shoulders  of  an  assistant.  A  pillow  is  placed 
across  the  poles  close  behind  the  neck  of  the  dwarf,  who 
throws  his  head  back  upon  it,  and  brings  each  arm  with 
the  boots  on,  up  over  the  poles,  and  resting  on  them,  as 
shown  in  the  engraving.  Then  a  pillow  is  placed  on  the 
poles  between  the  two  performers  and  near  the  chin  of 
the  dwarf ;  this  is  to  form  the  body.  Finaliy  a  sheet  prop¬ 
erly  folded  is  thrown  over  the  pillow  to  hide  it  and  all 
but  the  feet  of  the  boots,  and  brought  well  up  under  the 
chin  of  the  dwarf,  as  shown  below.  The  two  then  keep 
step  and  walk  in  before  the  company.  The  third  one 
may  remain  outside  to  convey  the  impnession  that  he  is 
one  of  the  bearers  of  the  dwarf,  with  his  head  under¬ 
neath  the  pillow.  The  effect  will  be  better  if  the  dwarf¬ 


ing  is  done  on  some  very  tail  person,  and  if  the  parties 
are  dressed  alike.  In  a  similar  way  a  boy  or  short  man 
may  be  apparently  stretched  out,  by  having  long  poles, 
fastening  the  boots  where  the  feet  should  come,  and  prop¬ 
erly  building  a  body  of  pillows  between  them  and  the 
head  resting  on  the  pillow  as  before.  Properly  tnanaged 
the  illusion  will  be  very  complete  and  amusing. 

A  Farmeb  last  summer  required  a  number  of  reapers. 
Several  presented  themselves  and  all  were  engaged  with 
one  exception.  The  poor  man  thus  omitted  said  :  “M.as- 
ter,  w  on’t  you  hire  me  1”  “  No,”  said  the  farmer.  “  Why 
not?”  “Because  you  are  too  little.”  “Too  little  1”  ex¬ 
claimed  the  .astonished  Irishman  ;  “does  yer  honor  reap 
your  crop  at  the  top?”  What  could  the  farmer  do  but 
laugh,  and  send  the  little  man  to  join  his  comrades  in  the 
I  field  ?  lie  proved  to  be  one  of  the  best  woriiinen. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


161 


n.  S.  7-30  LOAl 


(Business  notices  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 

Do  not  Waste  Yonr  Money  buying  any  of  the 
numerous  worthiess  articles  called  Gold  Pens  which 
have  flooded  the  market  for  the  last  few  years,  when  at 
lower  prices  you  can  get  pens  which  are  acknowledged 
to  be  the  Best  in  the  Wonto. 

Avoid  the  shameless  Upstarts  whose  lack  of  brains 
compels  them  to  attempt  imitation,  even  to  the  adver¬ 
tisement.  If  you  want  the  full  value  of  your  money,  see  in 
another  column  ;  “  The  Pen  is  Mightier  than  the  Sword.” 

GE®.  F.  mSSEIili  €0. 

ISiarttord,  Cosiis. 

Baiils:ex*s  axid.  iOea.leii’S  in 
GOVERNMEHT  SECURITIES. 

tJ.  S.  5-30  and  other  Bonds  bought  and  sold  on  the  most 
favorable  terms.  7  3-10  Notes  ready  for  delivery,  and  a 
discount  allowed.  Purchasers  are  assured  that  we  will  fur¬ 
nish  Government  Bonds  on  as  favorable  terms  as  they  can 


By  authority  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  tlie 
undersigned  has  assumed  tlie  General  Subscription 
Agency  for  the  sale  of  the  United  Stales  Treasury  Notes, 
bearing  seven  and  three-tenths  per  cent,  interest,  per 
annum,  known  as  the 

SEVEN-THIRTY  LOAN. 

These  Notes  are  issued  under  date  of  June  I5th,  1865, 
and  are  payable  three  years  from  that  time,  in  currency, 
or  are  convertible  at  the  option  of  the  holder  into 

U.  S.  5-20  Six  per  cent. 

GOIiD-BEARIHG  BONDS. 

These  bonds  are  worth  a  premium  W'hich  increases  the 


How  to  make  the  above  with  many  more  Pireside  Trickj 
and  Parlor  Games,  see  FIllESIDIC  A.MUSEMENTS  in  the 


NORTHERN  MAGAZINE. 

The  best  and  cheapest  Illustrated  magazine  in  the  world. 
tUVLY  Sl-35  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

Amusement  and  instruction  combined. 

Eq^ually  interesting  to  the  grandfather  and  to  the  grand¬ 
child.  Address  FRANK  BELLEW, 

39  Park  Row,  New  York, 

N.  B.— We  will  checrfiilly  give  any  one  a  year’s  subscription 
gratis,  who  will  show  us  as  good  a  magazine  at  double  tha 
price. 

THE  llOirnCUETIJEIIST,  I §65. 

Monthly,  Two  Dollars  and  Fifty  Cents  per  annum. 

Two  specimen  copies  sent,  post  paid,  for  Twenty-five 
Cents. 


get  them  from  New  York. 

CONNECTICUT  STATE  BONDS,  HARTFORD  CITY 
BONDS,  and  a  large  assortment  of  first  class  securities  on 
hand  for  sale  at  all  times. 


The  highest  possible  premium  paid  for  Gold  and  Silver  and 
U.  S.  Coupons,  also  for  Coupons  not  yet  due.  We  are  also 
Agents  for  the  Government  for  the  sale  of  Revenue  Stamps 
of  all  kinds.  Interest  allowed  on  deposits  from  the  date  of 
deposit  till  date  of  withdrawal. 

The  long  and  successful  Banking  experience  of  the  Senior 
partner  of  our  house  (extending  over  a  period  of  nearly 
twenty  years),  and  our  rigid  adherence  to  the  principles  of 
sound  Banking,  enable  us  to  give  the  greatest  facilities  to 
our  customers,  and  warrant  us  In  saying  that  it  is  our  aim 
to  have  our  House  rank  second  to  no  Banking  establishment 
In  the  country  for  soundness  and  stability. 

Business  sent  us  by  mail  will  receive  the  same  prompt  at¬ 
tention  that  is  given  to  those  who  come  in  person. 

GEO.  P.  BISSEL.I.  &  CO. 
(KETCHUM  SON  &  CO.,  New-York. 

1  HARTFORD  BANK,  Hartford,  Conn. 


Refer  to 


actual  profit  on  the  7-30  loan,  and  its  exemption  from 
State  and  municipal  taxation  adds  from  one  to  three  per 
cent,  more,  according  to  the  rate  levied  on  other  property. 
The  interest  is  payable  in  ciiriency  semi-annually  by- 
coupons  attached  to  each  note,  which  may  be  cut  off 
and  sold  to  any  bank  or  banker. 


The  interest  amounts  to 


One  cent  per  day  on  a 


Two  cents  “ 
Ten  ”  “ 

20 

$S  “  “ 


"  -  $50  note. 
$8  00 
$.500  •• 

$1000 

$5000  “ 


Notes  of  all  the  denominations  named  will  be  promptly 
furnislied  upon  receipt  of  subscriptions,  and  the  notes 


Woocl’tYiM’d’s  Coainlry  Homes, 

I2mo.  cloth.  122  Engravings.  $1.50.  post  paid. 

Woodward’s  Graperies  and  Horticultural 
Buildings, 

12mo,  cloth.  60  Engravings.  $1.50,  post  paid. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD, 
PnblisliRrs.  .^7  Park  Row,  New-York. 

THE  CHART, 

containing  a  truthful 
LIFE  SIZE  LIKENESS 

with  a  highly  finished  pictorial  border,  showing  the  chie. 
scenes  of  the  eventful 

LIFE  AND  DEATH 
of 


TBE  fflilH  NATIOML  BM 


forwarded  at  once.  The  interest  to  15th  June  next  will 
be  paid  in  advance.  This  is 

THE  OHLY  LOAH  IH  MARKET 


TME  MAM  WE  M®tJRM. 

II. 

Another  new  Chart  called 


OF  THE  CITY  OF  NEW  YORK. 


now  offered  by  the  Government,  and  it  is  confidently 


THE  EIEE  a>EATII 

of 


CAEITAE,  $a,®OO,©0®,  I»AI1> 
FISCAL  AGENT  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES, 
And  Speciaj.  Agent  for  Jay  Cooke,  Subscrip¬ 
tion  Agent, 

Will  Deliver  T-30  Notes,  Free  of  charge, 

by  Express,  in  all  parts  of  the  country,  and  receive  in 
payment  Checks  on  New  York,  Philadelphia,  and  Boston, 
Current  Bills,  and  all  five  per  cent,  interest  Notes,  with 
interest  to  date  of  subscription.  Orders  sent  by  mail 
will  be  promptly  filled. 

This  Bank  receives  the  accounts  of  Banks  and  Bank¬ 
ers  on  favorable  terms ;  also  of  individuals  keeping 
New  York  accounts. 


expected  that  its  superior  advantages  will  make  it  the 

GREAT  POPULAR  LOAN  OF  THE  PEOPLE. 

Less  than  $300,000,000  of  the  Loan  authorized  by  the 
last  Congress  are  now  on  the  market.  This  amount,  at 
the  rate  at  which  it  is  being  absorbed,  will  all  be  sub¬ 
scribed  for  within  four  months,  when  the  notes  will  un¬ 
doubtedly  command  a  premium,  as  has  uniformly  been 
the  case  on  closing  the  subscriptions  to  other  Loans. 

In  order  that  citizens  of  every  town  and  section  of 
the  country  may  be  afforded  facilities  for  taking  the  loan, 
the  National  Banks,  State  Banks,  and  Private  Bankers 


AHIBSAMAM 

wherein  will  be  preserved  in  elegant  form,  the  most  glo¬ 
rious  and  tremendous  events  of  Ids  Life  and  Death. 

Also  Tw  o  Lithographic  Prints— one  sliow  ing  his  Assas¬ 
sination — the  oilier  the  Catafalque  and  Funeral. — Also  an 
excellent  Crayon  Lithograph  Likeness.— Charts  mailed 
for  40  cents  each  ;  the  iwo  for  75  cents. — Prints  20  cents 
each  ;  the  two  for  35  cents.  Crayon  Likeness  25  cents. 
These  works  wiih  others  will  be  ready  about  May  1st. 
CweBierosis  Terms  to  Ag’cnts. 


Orders  filled  in  the  order  received.  Address 


J.  T.  HILL,  Cashier.  J.  U.  ORVIS,  President. 

Fourteenth  Annual  iteport 

OF  THE 

MANHATTAN 


throughout  the  country  have  generally  agreed  to  receive 
subscriptions  at  par.  Subscribers  will  select  their  own 
agents,  in  whom  they  have  confidence,  and  who  only  are 
to  be  responsible  for  the  delivery  of  the  notes  for  which 
they  receive  orders. 


LIFE  INSURANCE  COMPANY, 

Nos,  156  and  158  Broadtvay, 

NEW  YORK, 

JANUARY  1,  1865. 


Vet  Assets,  January  1,  1864... . $1,478,968  59 

leceipts  during  the  year.. . .  973,534  02 


$2,452,502  61 

Oisburseraents .  461,277  38 


$1,991,225  23 

Assets....'. . $1,991,225  23 


Life  policies  are  issued,  payable  in  annual,  or  in  one, 
five,  or  ten  annual  installments  ;  also  non-forfeiture  en¬ 
dowment  policie.s,  payable  in  ten  annual  payments, 
which  are  paid  at  death,  or  on  arriving  at  any  particular 
age.  Life  insurance  as  an  investment  has  no  superior, 
as  It  has  saved  millions  of  dollars  to  the  insured,  and 
thousands  of  families  from  ruin.  Dividends  are  paid  to 
policy  holders,  thus  enabling  them  to  continue  their 
policies,  if  otherwise  unable  to  do  so. 

HENRY  STOKES,  President. 

C.  Y.  WEMPLE,  Secretary, 

J.  S.  HALSEY,  Assistant  Secretary. 

S.  N.  STEBBINS,  Actuary. 

ABRAM  DU  BOIS,  M.  D.,  Medical  Examiner, 


JAY  COOKE, 

Subscription  Aoeni,  Philadelphia. 


Yl^ANTED.— EVERYBODY  SEEKING  PRO- 
w  V  fitable  employment,  to  introduce  Popular  Biogra¬ 
phies  and  Standard  Historical  Work,  written  by  the  well- 
known  and  popular  author,  J.  T.  Headley.  Just  the 
books  for  the  times.  Sold  only  by  Agents.  To  energetic 
men  and  women,  a  rare  chance  is  offered  to  make  from 
$50  to  $150  per  month. 

For  terms  and  territory,  address 

E.  B.  "TREAT,  Publisher,  124  Grand  St., 

Three  doors  East  of  Broadway,  New-York. 

“  Signs  of  Cliaracter,”  and  How  to  Read 
Tliem. — Physiognomy,  Phrenology,  Psychology,  Eth¬ 
nology,  with  Portraits  and  Biography,  given  in  the 
ILLUSTRATED  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL. 
Only  20  cents  a  number,  or  $2  a  year.  The  Pictorial 
Double  Numbers  for  Jan..  Feb.,  March  and  April  sent  by 
return  post,  for  $1.00.  Plea.se  address  MESSRS.  FOW¬ 
LER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New  York. 

miniature  Farming— *‘Our  Farm  of  Two 
Acres.” — By  Harriet  Mabtineau.  48  pp.  16  mo. 
Price  20  cents.  Very  entertaining  and  full  of  valuable 
suggestions.  Mailed  post  free  on  receipt  of  price. 
BUNGE  &  HUNTINGTON,  Publishers,  540  Broadway 
New-York 


About  Four  Thousand  of  these  Great  Clothes  and  Labor 
Savers  have  been  sold  within  the  past  and  present  years,  all 
with  the  privilege  of  returning  and  having  the  Pur.cnASK 
MONEY  KEFUNnED,  if,  after  three  weeks’  fair  trial,  according 
to  the  directions,  tlie  tVasher  proves  unsatisfactorj’,  yet  not 
ONE  IN  FIVE  iiuNDKKD  liits  ever  been  returned. 

The  Proprietors  continue  to  cuakantt  satisfaction, 
therefore  there  Is  no  reason  why  every  Family  should  not 
have  one.  Send  $10.50  to  DOTY  BROTHERS, 
Janesville,  Wis.,  and  get  a  Machine  that  is  warranted  to 
save  from  $10  to  $100  worth  of  clothing  yearly,  besides  mak¬ 
ing  Washing  three  times  as  easy.  (See  Editorial  Illustration 
and  description  In  March  Agriculturist.)  Circulars  free,  on 
application.  Agencies  established  at  New  York,  Philadel¬ 
phia,  Chicago,  St.  Louis,  Butfaio,  and  other  large  cities. 

GREAT 

ABVEISTISIM®  MEBIUM. 

The  Dollar  Weekly  Mirror  ano  Journal  of 
Agriculture  published  at  Manchester,  New  Hamp¬ 
shire,  has  a  larger  circulation  tlian  any  olher  paper  north 
of  Boston.  One  quarter  of  the  paper  is  devolecl  to  Agri¬ 
culture,  wholly,  and  is  edited  by  Hon.  Chanoler  E. 
Potter.  The  rest  is  devoted  to  news.  Politics  and  Edu¬ 
cation,  and  is  edited  by  John  B.  Clarke,  the  propietor. 
U  is  not  only  a  great  nimily  and  farming  paper,  but,  be¬ 
ing  published  in  a  oily  only  second  in  notion  and  wool¬ 
en  manufacturing  interests  in  the  United  States,  it  has  a 
wide  circulation  in  all  other  manufacturing  cities  and 
villages  in  the  United  States.  Subscriptions  $1,50  a  year 
in  advance. 

Only  a  small  space  is  devoted  to  advertising.  Terms  ; 
Ten  cents  a  line  for  e.ach  insertion.  One  column,  22)^ 
Inches  long,  one  time,  twenty-five  dollars. 

Refers  to  New  York  Times.  Tribune.  Wilke’s  Spirit 
ana  the  Agriculturist;  to  Gov.  Fenton  of  New  York,  and 
General  Bruce,  State  Canal  Commissioner. 

Address  JOHN  B.  CLARKE, 

Manclieste*,  New  Hampshire 


163 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


CMat, 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


Nkw-Yobk,  April  20. 

The  condensed  and  convenient  tables  below,  show  the 
transactions  in  the  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
month  past.  They  are  carefully  prepared  specially  for  the 
American  Agriculturist,  from  official  and  other  reliable 
sources,  including  the  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 

1.  TKANSAOTIONS  AT  THS  NKW-TOBK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  tlTieat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 
24day8«/i!.9m’tti.l97,n00  9,200  173,000  3,100  94,000  286,000 
22  days  tost  m’th.119.000  15,500  216,000  7,500  27,500  314,000 

Sales,  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

24  days  «*!«  month,  194,000  528,000  318,000  46,000 

22  days  last  month,  191,000  352,000  195,000  27,000  69,000 

13.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts,  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

24  days  1865 . 197,000  9,200  173,000  3,100  91,000  286,000 

27  days  1864 . 209,000  156,000  285,000  7,500  126,000  353,000 


Sales,  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

24  days  1863 .  194,000  628,000  318,000  -  46,000 

27  days  1864  .  379,000  784,000  836,000  46,500  410,500 


3«  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  April  19. 


Flour, 

Wheat, 

Corn, 

Rve, 

Oats. 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

1863.... 

...  376,573 

169,5a5 

138,287 

141 

24,302 

1864.... 

4,095.375 

90.684 

403 

12,643 

1863... 

3,860,161 

2,251,870 

127,270 

100.707 

Influenced  by  the  recent  decisive  successes  of  the 
national  arms  in  Virginia  and  elsewhere,  gold  receded 
from  157,  at  the  date  of  our  last,  to  143^,  rallying  since 
only  to  146^13147.  With  the  fall  in  gold,  prices  of  all 
kinds  of  produce  and  merchandise  declined  materially, 
especially  those  of  flour,  grain,  provisions,  wool,  and 
cotton.  At  the  reduced  figures,  a  light  business  has 
been  transacted,  buyers  having  been  quite  reluctant  to 
purchase  freely,  as  they  have  been  anticipating  further 
concessions  from  holders.  The  receipts  of  produce 
have  been  moderate,  but  receivers  have  been  eager  sel¬ 
lers.  The  available  supplies  of  the  leading  articles  here 
are  not  heavy,  but  are  in  excess  of  the  pressing  wants  of 
purchasers.  Within  the  past  week  there  has  been  a  par¬ 
tial  suspension  of  all  commerci.al  operations,  in  honor  of 
the  memory  of  our  lamented  President ;  and  the  markets 
have  been  generally  very  dull  and  heavy,  particularly  for 
flour  and  grain, — holders  of  which  have  been  anxious  to 
realize,  apprehending  still  more  serious  depression  on 
the  resumption  of  canal  and  river  navigation,  and  the 
impending  capitulation  of  all  the  organized  forces  of  the 
rebels,  which  will  virtually  close  the  war  for  the  restora¬ 
tion  of  the  Union  and  the  vindication  of  the  national 
authority.  The  canals  of  this  Stale  will  be  opened  for 
the  season  by  about  the  15th  of  May,  and  will  greatly 
facilitate  the  transportation  of  supplies  of  all  kinds  of 
produce  to  markets  on  the  sea-board. 


Current  WnoLKSALE  Prices. 


Flour— Super  to  Extra  State 
Super  to  Extra  Southern.. . . 

Extra  Western . 

Extra  Genesee . 

Superfine  IVestern . 

Bye  Flour . 

Corn  Meal . 

Wheat— All  kinds  of  White. 

All  kinds  of  Red . . 

Corn— Yellow . 

Mixed  . . 

Oats— Western . 

State . 

Rye . 

Barley . 

Cotton— Middlings,  ^  ft _ 

Hops- Crop  of  1864,  ft . 

Fbathers— Live  Geese,  ft. 

Seed- Clover,  ft  . 

Timothy,  ft  bnshel . 

Flax.  W  bnshel . 

SroAE— Brown,  ft  . 

Molasses.  New-Orleans,?lgl. 

Coffee— Klo,  ft . 

Tobacco,  Kentucky,  &c..  ^ft. 

Seed  Leaf,  ft . 

W ooL— Domestic  FI  eece,  ft. 

Domestic,  pulled,  ft . 

California,  unwashed, . 

Tallow.  ft  . 

Oil  Cake— ^  ton . 

Pork— Mess,  barrel . 

Prime,  ft  barrel . 

Beef- Plain  mess . 

Lard,  In  barrels,  ft  ft . 

Butter- Western,  ft . 

State,  ft . 

Cheese . . 

Beans- ^  bushel . 

Peas- Canada.  ¥<  bushel . 

Eggs— Fresh,  ^  dozen . 

Poultry- Fowls,  ft . 

Turkeys,  ft  . 

Potatoes— Mereers,  V  bbl.. . 

Peach  Blows,  ^  barrel . 

Apples—?!  barrel . 


March  IS. 

April 

20. 

$9 

80 

@10 

50 

$7 

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8 

10 

10 

40 

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50 

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NeW"YorIc  Live  Stoclc  Markets. — 

Beef  Cattle.— The  average  supply  of  animals  for  the 
month  past  is  much  lighter  than  during  the  previous  one. 
The  receipts  average  4,071  head  weekly.  The  cattle 
have  come  in  very  irregularly,  on  account  of  the  damage 
done  to  railroads  by  the  destructive  freshets.  The 
scarcity  of  cattle  caused  prices  again  to  reach  the  high 
figures  of  last  winter,  but  they  have  now  receded  by  the 
retralaiity  of  arrivals,  and  at  the  last  market  were  about 


as  follows:  First  quality,  22c.(a)24e,  per  ft.,  dressed 
weight ;  good,  19c.®21c. ;  fair,  17c.(®19c.  ;  and  poor  to 
common,  14c.ta)16o. 

ITIilcli  Cows. — The  weekly  average  of  cows  for  the 
past  month  is  163.  The  demand  is  light,  and  prices  have 
declined  considerably.  Rates  range  from  $75®$80  each 
for  good  milkers,  and  down  to  $40  for  poor. 

Veal  Calves  are  coming  in  much  more  freely  this 
month  than  last.  The  average  weekly  receipts  are  1,907, 
compared  with  610,  the  average  weekly  arrivals  for  the 
previous  four  weeks.  Prices  range  from  10c.  to  13Xc., 
per  lb.,  live  weight,  according  to  quality. 

Slieep  come  in  much  less  freely  than  last  month. 
The  number  of  shorn  sheep  are  increasing  each  w'eek. 
Prices  (for  unshorn)  .are  about  Ic.  per  lb.,  live  weight, 
below  last  month.  Good  sheep  sell  at  12>^c.®13c.,  per 
lb.  ;  fair,  at  Ul^c.®12c.  ;  and  common,  10c.®llc. 

Idive  Hogs  are  still  in  small  supply,  the  average 
weekly  receipts  being  only  3,764,  hardly  enough  to  supply 
the  regular  city  demand.  Prices  range  from  llMc.  to  13c., 
per  lb.,  live  weight,  for  fair  to  good. 

- - - - 

Xl»e  N.  Y.  Xribsane,  Herald,  and 
Day-Hook. — A  few  have  protested  against  our  adver¬ 
tising  these  papers, — some  objecting  to  one  and  approv¬ 
ing  another.  We  suppose  the  Tribune  and  Herald  too 
well  known  to  need  our  special  endorsement,  or -reproba¬ 
tion.  The  TriiMiie,  while  professedly  a  newspaper,  tries 
also  to  lead  public  opinion,  to  bring  others  to  adopt  the 
views  which  its  editors  believe  to  be  right.  The  Herald, 
professedly  guided  by  no  high  moral  principle,  floats 
upon  the  ever-changing  current  of  popular  impulses, 
and  is  mainly  a  nries-paper.  As  for  the  “Day-Book,” 
we  remember  too  well  its  articles  abusing  and  misrepre¬ 
senting  the  North — which  greatly  aided  to  stir  up  bitter¬ 
ness  and  rebellion  at  the  South — to  willingly  give  it  any 
space  even  in  our  advertising  columns.  The  advertise¬ 
ment  recently  admitted  was  inserted  by  an  assistant,  who 
did  not  fully  know  the  character  of  the  paper. 


Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  lOth  of  the  preceding  month. 

N*  B.— iVo  Advertisement  of  Patent  Medicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parties  unknowii  to  the  Editors  personal' 
Ixj  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  will  do  what  they  prom’ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  up  to  these  requirements,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves, 

TERMS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines),  $65  each  insertion. 

One  whole  column  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  line. 


Hdncationnl  Agency— Supplies  educated,  skillful 
Teachers  for  all  branches,  to  schools  and  families.  Circulars 
for  stamp.  Address  J.  A,  NASH,  5  Beekman*st.,  Nevv-York. 


Flax  Seed,  Clover  Seed,  Ac. 

Consi«:nments  of  Seeds  and  general  merchandise  solicited, 
and  FlighCzSt  Prices  Guaranteed,  by  F,  A,  WHITING 
&  CO.,  commission  Merchants,  104  Water  st..  New  York. 
Sole  Agents  for  Government  White  Lend  and  Color  Works, 
Linseed  Oil  and  all  other  Oils,  “Linseed  Oil  Substitute,” 
Paints,  Putty,  Varnishes,  &c„  &c.,  at  Manufacturers’  lowest 
rates. 


Evergreens,  Arbor  Vlt®,  Hemlock,  &c.,  Cat- 

alogues  ready.  J.  W.  ADAMS,  Portland,  Me. 


New  StrawSjerries. 

GREAT  AGRICULTURIST. 

The  largest  Strawberry  in  the  World,  fine 
flavored,  and  wonderfully  productive.  1  have  a  large  stock 
of  very  fine  plants,  at  the  following  rates:  2  plants,  20; 
6  plants,  $3  00;  12  plants,  $5;  100  plants,  $'25 ;  1000  plants,  $'200. 

I  have  several  thousand  second  size  plants,  of  the  Great 
Agriculturist,  at  the  following  rates:  6  plants,  $1.00 ;  12 
plants,  $2.00;  100  plants,  $10;  1000  plants,  $75.  1  shall  plant 
the  second  size  plants. 

Also  the  following  splendid  varieties,  Russell’s  Prolific,  50 
cents  per  dozen,  $2  per  hundred. 

Buffalo  Seedling,  a  very  fine  new  kind,  $1  pr  doz..  $5  pr  100 
French  Seedling,  the  best  early  berry  known,  $1  per  doz.: 
$1  per  hnndred.  Lennlng’s  'White,  a  splendid,  large,  white 
berry,  a  great  acquisition,  75  cts.  per  doz.;  $4  per  hundred. 
Strawberry  plants  may  be  sncccssfnlly  planted  up  to  the  first 
of  June.  May  Is  probably  the  very  best  time. 

All  orders  addressed  to  WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

329  Green wich-st ,  New-Tork. 

5”  TALIAN  QUKENS  FOR  SALE,  FROM  THE 

most  celebrated  Importations.  For  particulars  address 
K.  F.  KIDDEU,  Burlington,  Vermont. 

HE  BEST  MOVABLE  COMB  BEE-HIVE  IN 
the  WORLD.  Send  stamp  for  Book  Circular,  K.  P. 
KIDDER,  Burlington,  'Vermont. 


“  The  Peaa  is  Mig'htier  than 
tiae  Swos’d.” 

THE  GOLD  PEN— THE  BEST  OF  ALL  PENS. 

MORTON'S  GOLD  PENS, 

THE  BEST  IPENS  IN  THE  WORLD. 

On  receipt  of  any  of  the  following  sums  in  Cash,  the  sub¬ 
scriber  will  send  by  return  mall,  or  otherwise,  as  directed,  a 
Gold  Pen  or  Bens— selecting  Ike  same  sstcording  to  descrip¬ 
tion,  viz.: 

Pens  vritlioiit  Cases. 

For  50  cents,  the  Magic  Pen ;  for  75  cents,  the  Lucky  Pen ; 
for  $1,  the  AIways-Ready  Pen ;  for  $1.25,  the  Elegant  Pen; 
and  lor  $1.50,  the  Excelsior  Pen.— These  Pens  are  not  num¬ 
bered,  but  correspond  in  sizes  to  Numbers  2,  3,  4,  5  and  6,  re¬ 
spectively. 

The  same  B*ems  in  Silver-Plated  Ex¬ 
tension  Cases  with  Pencils. 

For  $1,  the  ilagic  Pen ;  for  $1  25,  the  Lucky  Pen ;  for  $1.50, 
the  Always-Keady  Pen ;  for  $'2,  the  Elegant  Pen ;  and  for 
$2  25,  the  Excelsior  Pen. 

These  are  Well-Finished,  Good-Writing  Gold  Pens,  ■with 
Iridosmin  Points,  the  average  wear  of  every  one  of  which 
will  far  outlast  a  gross  of  the  best  Steel  Pens :  although  they 
are  unwarranted,  and,  therefore,  not  exchangeable. 

MOKTOM’S  WARMAMTEO  PEIXS. 

The  name  ‘‘A.  Morton,”  “Number,”  and  “Quality,”  are 
stamped  on  the  following  Pens,  and  the  points  are  warranted 
for  six  months,  except  against  accident. 

The  numbers  indicate  size  only;  No.  1  being  the  smallest. 
No.  6,  the  largest,  adapted  for  tlie  pocket,  No.  4,  the  smallest, 
and  No.  10,  the  largest  Mammoth  Gold  Pen,  for  the  desk. 

^Hold  Pens,  witltont  Cases. 

For  $1  25  a  No.  1  Pen,  1st  quality ;  or  a  No.  3  Pen,  3d  quality. 
For  $1  50aNo.2Pen,  Istqu.ality;  or  a  No.  3  Pen,  2d  quality; 
or  a  No.  4  Fen,  3d  quality. 

For  $2  a  No.  3  Pen,  let  quality;  or  a  No.  4  Pen,  2d  quality; 
or  a  No.  5  Pen,  3d  quality. 

For  $2  25  a  No.  4  Pen,  1st  quality;  or  a  No.  5  Pen,  2d  quality 
or  a  No.  6  Pen,  3d  quality. 

For  $2  75  a  No.  5  Pen,  1st  quality;  or  a  No.  6  Pen,  2d  quality. 
For  $3  50  a  No.  6  Pen  ;  $4  50  a  No.  7  Pen ;  $5  75  a  No.  8  Pen ; 
$6  50  a  No.  9  Pen ;  $7  50  a  No.  10  Pen-all  1st  quality. 

Tlie  same  Ciold  Pens,  in  Silver  Ex¬ 
tension  Cases  vvitSi  Pencils. 

For  $2  a  No.  1  Pen,  Ist  quality ;  or  a  No.  3  Pen,  3d  qnallty. 
For  $2  50  a  No.  2  Pen,  Ist  quality ;  or  a  No.  3  Pen,  2d  quality  7 
or  a  No.  4  Pen,  3d  quality. 

For  $3  a  No.  3  Pen,  1st  quality;  or  a  No.  4  Fen,  2d  quality; 
or  a  No.  5  Pen,  3d  quality. 

For  $3  75  a  No.  s  Pen,  1st  quality ;  or  a  No.  5  Pen,  2d  quality ; 
or  a  No.  6  Pen,  3d  quality. 

For  $4  60  a  No.  5  Pen,  1st  quality ;  or  a  No,  6  Pen,  2d  quality. 
For  $5  75  a  No.  6  Pen,  1st  quality. 

^old  Pens,  all  first  quality,  in  Sil¬ 
ver-Mounted  JDesk  Holders. 

For  $2  75  a  No.  4  Pen ;  for  $3  25  a  No.  5  Pen  ;  for  $4  a  No.  6 
Pen;  for  $5  75  a  No.  7  Pen. 

For  $7  a  No.  8  Pen  ;  for  $3  a  No.  9  Pen ;  and  for  $9  a  No.  10 
Pen. 

The  “1st  Quality”  are  pointed  with  the  very  best  Iridos¬ 
min  Points,  carefully  selected,  and  none  of  this  quality  are 
sold  with  the  slightest  imperfection  which  skill  and  the 
closest  scrutiny  can  detect. 

The  “2d  Quality"  are  superior  to  any  Pens  made  by  him 
previous  to  the  year  1860. 

The  “Sd  Quality”  he  intends  shall  equal  In  respect  to  Du¬ 
rability.  Elasticity,  and  Good  Writing  Qualities  (the  only 
true  considerations)  any  Gold  Pena  made  elsewhere. 

In  regard  to  the  Cheap  Gold  Pens,  he  begs  leave  to  say  that 
previous  to  operating  his  New  and  Patented  Machines,  he 
could  not  have  made  as  Good  Writing  and  durable  Pens,  for 
the  price,  had  the  Gold  been  furnished  gratuitously. 

Parties  ordering  must  in  all  instances  spccity  the  “  Name" 
or  the  " Number”  and  “  Quality  "  of  the  Pens  wmnted,  and 
be  particular  to  describe  the  kind  they  prefer— whether  stiff 
or  limber,  coarse  or  fine. 

All  remittances  sent  by  mall  in  registered  letters  are  at  my 
risk  ;  and  to  all  who  send  twenty-cents  (charge  for  register¬ 
ing),  In  addition  the  price  of  goods  ordered,  I  will  guaranty 
their  safe  delivery. 

Parties  sending  Gold  or  Silver  will  be  allowed  the  frill  pre¬ 
mium  on  the  day  received. 

TO  CLUBS.— A  discount  of  10  per  cent  will  be  allowed  on 
sums  of  $12,  and  15  per  cent  on  $24,  and  of  20  per  cent  on  $40s 
if  sent  to  one  address  at  one  time.  Address 

A.  MORTON, 

No.  25  Maiden-lane,  New  York. 


168 


186§.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


GARDEN  &  CEMETERY 

ADORNMENTS. 


ig  WASESf  &®a 

S-o.mmer  Houses^ 
ARBORS,  CHAIRS,  SETTEES,  &o. 

WmVj  TRELLISES  AND  ARCHES, 

FOR  VINES,  FLOWERS,  &c. 


IRON  FUMITUEE, 

Bedsteads  of  Every  Description 

For  Dwellings,  Public  Institutions,  Hospitals, 
Prisons,  &c. 

Patent  §priiig  IBeds,  Mattresses,  &c. 

STABLE  "fixtures 

Hay  Racks,  Mangers,  Stall  Divisions,  &c. 


IROH  RAILING*, 

For  enclosing  Cemetery  Plots,  Offices,  Dwellings, 
Public  Squares,  &c. 


Having  purchased  the  business  of  the  Kew  York  Wire 
Railing  Company,  Hutchinson  .SWickersham  late  Agents, 
we  are  now  the  exclusive  Owners  and  Manufacturers  of 

Patent  Wire  Railing  and  Farm 
Fencingj  Window  Guards,  &o. 

And  we  offer  to  the  public  the  largest  variety  of  ORNA¬ 
MENTAL  IKON  GOODS  to  be  found  In  the  United  States. 
Particular  attention  given  to  Export  trade. 

CHASE  &  CO. 

Warerooms  524  Broadway^ 

Opposite  St.  Nicholas  Hotel,  NEW  YORK. 

American  roofing  company. 

GREEN’S  PATENT. 

This  Company  is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  the  best 
articles  of  ROOFING  ever  introduced,  consisting  of  a  STOUT 
MATERIAL  made  WATER-PROOF  by  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  RUBBER,  hardened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  expressly. 

The  WHOLE  FABRIC  has  been  thoroughly  tested,  is 
WATER-PROOF,  and  unaffected  by  changes  of  weather. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Cloth. 

It  is  designed  for  covering  RAILWAY  CARS,  STEAM¬ 
BOATS,  DWELLINGS,  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  cheaper  thjm  any  known  roofing  of  equal  durability. 
It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samples  had  by  applying  at  the 
Office  of  the  Company.  No.  94  Wall-st.,  New  York. 

HENRY  SMITH,  Agent. 

T  EAKY  SHINGLE,  CANVAS  or  FELT  ROOFS 
A^ican  be  made  water-tight  by  using  the  GUTTA  PERCHA 
CEMENT.  LEAKY  TIN  ROOFS  will  wear  five  times  as 
lo«g  if  coated  with  the  GUTTA  PERCHA  CEMENT  PAINT, 
the  best  Paint  for  Agricultural  Implements,  out-buildings, 
Fences,  &c..  &o.  Manufactured  ready  for  use  by  the 

JOHNS  &  CROSLEY  MANUFACTUIilNG  CO., 

No.  73  William-st.,  cor.  Liberty,  New-Tork. 
Sole  Manufacturers  of  the  Gutta  Percha  Cement  Roofing. 

millstone  Dressing  Diamonds 

Set  in  Patent  Protector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  JOHN 
DICKENSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  of  Diamonds  for  all  Mechanical  purposes.  Also  Man¬ 
ufacturer  of  Glaziers’  Diamonds,  No.  64  Nassau-st.,  New- 
York  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  postage 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  the  Diamond  Dresser. 

HoDsekeepers  Take  M®tice ! 

D.  LAKE’S  FLY  TRAP 

Patented  June  21, 1864,  and  Jan.  10, 1865.  Sent  Iw  express, 
on  receipt  of  Address  DAVID  LAK^E, 

Smith's  Landing,  New  Jersey. 

Malsters,  Brewers  and  Distillers 

should  nse  Stewart’s  Patent  Wrought  Iron  Tiles,  manufac¬ 
tured  by  T.  G.  AltNOLD,  224  &  226  West  21st..  New  York. 
Flat  Sheet  Iron  for  kilns  perforated  to  order. 

False  bottoms  for  Mash  Tubs. 

Ivin’s  Patent  Hair  Crimpers. 

Ladies  try  Thtm.  They  will  make  your  hair  wave  beauti¬ 
fully  without  heating  It.  For  sale  at  Variety  Stores  through¬ 
out  the  country.  Retail  merchants  will  be  supplied  by  any 
flrst-olass  Jobber  of  Notions  In  New-York,  Philadelphia,  Pa., 
or  BoitoD,  Maes. 


W.  &  B.  DOUGLAS’ 

PATENT  ROTARY  BARREL  PUMP 

Arranged  with  the  Patent  Barrel  AUacliment,  the  most 
complete  and  perfect  article  ever  invented  for  pumpino  oil 
and  ALL  KINDS  OP  liquids  from  bakrels  and  other  casks 
np  into  CAKs,  tanks,  &c.  A  most  invaluable  Fixture  for  oil 
STOEKS,  OIL  BKFINEEIE8,  DRUG  STORES,  PAINT  MANUFAOTO- 
EIKS,  &c.,  &c.  We  make  two  regular  sizes  of  this  Barrel 
Pump,  viz.:  Nos.  1  and  2.  No.  1  will  pump  from  8  to  10  gal¬ 
lons,  and  No.  2,  from  16  to  20  gallons  per  minute.  Orders  re¬ 
spectfully  solicited  by 

W.  &  B.  DOUGLAS, 
MIBDDETOWW,  CONHT. 

Sole  Proprietors  and  Manufacturers  of  the  article. 

Branch  Warehouse,  87  John-st.,  N.  Y.,  where  samples  of 
these  and  our  various  other  kinds  of  Pumps,  Hydraulic 
Rams,  Garden  Engines,  Ship  Pumps,  Oil  Well  Pumps,  Power 
Pumps,  Chain  Pumps,  Iron  Well  Curbs,  Iron  Horse  Posts, 
Grindstone  Trimmings,  Wrought  Iron  Butts  and  Hinges, 
&c.,  can  be  seen. 

All  the  principal  Hardware  Merchants,  Plumbers, 
Tinners,  and  Agricultural  Dealers  in  thU  and  other 
Countries,  keep  our  Manupaoturks,  or  will  order  them 
from  ns  when  called  for. 


Misliwitas’s  Mower 

anil  Reaper. 

The  success  of  the  Monitor  is  without  parallel.  It  em¬ 
braces  every  point  necessary  to  make  a  Perfect  Mow¬ 
er  nnd  Reaper,  It  recommends  itself  to  every  farmer 
for  the  simplicity  of  Its  construction.  It  is  proved  to  be  the 
Ijightest  Draft.  It  takes  tlie  preference  for  dura¬ 
bility,  ease  of  management  and  good  work. 

Four  different  sizes.  Pnlly  warranted.  For  circu¬ 
lars  giving  full  description,  references,  &c.,  Address 

P.  miSHWITZ,  Manufacturer, 

Williamsburgh,  L.  I.,  N.  Y. 

J.  N.  CLiOYES, 

(General  Agent,  Central  and  Western  N.  Y.,)  Utica. 

P.  S.  MKSEKOI.E, 

(General  Agent,  Ill.,  and  the  West,)  204  Lake-st.,  Chicago. 

Bullard’s  Patent  Hay  Tedder. 

The  attention  of  New  York  farmers  is  called  to  this  new 
invention  for  spreading  and  turning  Hay;  second  only  to  the 
Mower,  in  practical  usefulness  on  the  farm.  It  Is  simple  in 
its  construction,  effectual  in  its  operation,  and  wonderfully 
labor-saving.  It  has  been  thoroughly  tested  and  has  never 
failed  to  give  satisfaction.  No  farmer  who  wishes  to  have 
well-cured  hay  can  afford  to  do  without  it.  Price  for  8  Fork 
Machine  with  Pole  or  Thills,  $100.  6  Fork  ones  with  Thills 
$ffi,  deliverable  in  Syracuse,  N.  Y.,  or  in  New  York  City. 

SILAS  C.  HERRING,  251  Broadway, 

Sole  Proprietor  and  Manufacturer  for  the  State  of  NewYork. 


UHIOK  MOWING  MACHINE. 


Swift^s  Tawn  Mowers, 

R.  H.  AUDEN  &  CO., 

189  «&  191  Water-st.,  New-York. 
SOLE  AGENTS. 


Bwy  tlie  Simplest—Halsted^s, 


wiifiTctiim’s 
Hoy  •se  Hay  iRake. 

Send  for  Circular.  Agents  Wanted, 

CMMEWT5S 

Impi’oved.  HLay  Fork. 

PI 

•i 

a 

.1 


a 

I 


8SS 

Patent  Revolving 

MAY  &  «RA1N  STACKER, 


7r««7V.4'f(hY' 


SHARE’S  Patent  Coulter  Harrow. 

“  “  Hoer  and  Hiller. 

HAUSTED’S  Cultivator  and  Seed  Drill. 

BRCWN’S  Ice  Cream  Freezers. 

Agricultural  Implements  of  all  kinds.— Seeds,  Fertilizers,  &ffi. 

HAYNES  &  FEUD, 

27  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York. 

IMPROVED 

HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTOI  PRESSES. 

These  machines  have  been  tested  in  the  most  thorough 
manner  throughout  this  and  foreign  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  of  over  r200. 

The  Horse  Power  is  worked  by  either  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  in  many  respects  possesses  unequalled  advantages.  We 
invite  those  wanting  such  machines  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  Information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  promptly  attended  to,  by  addressing 
INGKKSOLL  &  COUGHF.RTY,  Greenpoint,  Kings  Co.,L.  L 


THE  BE^T  PEi®W  OUT 

WITHOUT  A  DOUBT, 

IS  MEAD’S  CONICAL  PLOW. 

For  particulars,  send  for  a  circular  to  the  manufactursr, 
SOLOMON  MEAD,  New  Haven,  Conn. 


164 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Mat, 


BUY  THE  BE^TI 


In  excellence  of  material  and  workmanship,  as  well  as  in 
perfection  of  principle,  the  BUCKEYE  is  universally 
recognized  as 

THE  STAWPAl^lS. 

Orders  will  now  he  filled  at  the  following 

NET  CASH  PR5CES ; 

Machines  delivered  at  Kero  York  or  Po'keepsie. 


No.  2  Mower,  4  ft.  1  inch  Cut . $175  00 

No.  1  “  4  “  8  “  “  .  200  00 


No.  1  Motver  &  Reaper,  5  ft.  Cut  in  Reaping.  240  00 
Computed  in  Farm  Produce,  or  contrasted 
witH  the  cost  of  Labor,  our  Machines  are 
cheaper  than  when  prices  were  nominally 
the  lowest.  The  great  scarcity  and  high  price  of  labor 
will  compel  farmers  to  rely  almost  entirely  upon  Machinery 
In  gathering  their  hay  and  grain  crops.  As  the  Buckeye 
has  always  been  sold  out  of  the  market  greatly  in  advance 
of  all  other  Machines,  those  farmers  who  mean  to  secure  the 
BEST,  should  order  at  once. 

Circulars  can  be  obtained  of  any  of  our  Agents,  or  will 
be  forwarded  by  mail. 

ADRIANCE,  PLATT  &  CO., 

Manufactureivs  and  Proprietors. 

MANUFACTORY,  IVkeepsie,  N.  T. 

OFFICE  AND  WAREHOUSE,  1G5  Greenwich-st.,  New  York 


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After  extensive  introductien  nnd  thoroujrh  trial,  Is  now 
offered  to  the  public  in  its  improved  form.  Agents  wanted. 
Town,  County,  and  State  IJigiits  for  sale.  Send  for  a  circular. 
Address  A.  M.  HALSTED,  67  Pearl-st.,  Kcw-Yorlw. 


CHAMPION  SEED  SOWER. 

PlaiBtcr  and  Cultivator  Couibincd! 

Drops  and  covers  all  kinds  of  seeds,  from  Corn  and  Heans 
down  to  the  smallest  seeds,  in  hills  or  drills,  at  any  desirable 
distance  apart,  viz.:  7,  14,  21,  28.  and  42  inches,  in  tlie  most 
perfect  and  even  manner.  Is  adapted  to  both  Garden  and 
Farm  purposes. 

We  also  invite  attention  to  our  superior  Changeable  End¬ 
less  Cliain  Railway 


Tile  Horse  Power  is  unequalled  for  ease  of  te.am  and 
amount  of  power,  and  has  never  failed  to  take  the  First 
Premium  over  all  competitors,  wlierever  tested.  Tlie 
Combined  Tliresiier  and  Cleaner  cleans  equal  to  the  best  of 
Fanning  Mills,  fit  for  Mill  or  market.  Threhiiers,  Separ¬ 
ators,  Fanning  Mills,  Wood  Saws,  &o.,  the  best  in  mark¬ 
et.  Send  in  orders  early,  as  we  are  governed  by  “  first  come, 
first  served.” 

For  further  information  send  for  Circular. 

Address  R.  &  M.  HARDER, 

CoblcsUill,  Schoharie  Co.,  N.  Y. 


Coa*si  FlaafilSfiig' !  Tiasie  Saved. 

Every  farmer  should  h^ave  one  or  more  of  Thos.  B.  McCon* 
augliey’s  Patent  Corn  Droppers.  They  will  positively  save 
one  half  the  time,  over  the  old  way  of  dropping  corn. 

For  Three  Dollars  I  will  scud  oiic  Dropper  to  any  address 
free  of  Express  charges. 

A  liberal  discount  made  to  them  that  bny  to  sell  again. 

Address  THOS.  B.  ^CONAUGHEy, 

JNewark,  Daiaware. 


Fi©iieer  Sorg-o  Maclamery. 


COOK’S  EVAPORATOE. 


S  © 

s 

3  5 


ff'ia'st  l®i-cEB£iii0.DEis  sat  Pairs* 

“Simple  affair.  Operates  admirably.  The  best  apparatus.” 
— A merica n  A  cfy'iculL urii^t. 

“  Of  all  the  Evaporators  we  have  seen,  the  most  satisfacto¬ 
ry  results  arc  from  Cook’s. ’’—7-^mine  Farmer. 

“The  only  one  which  attained  general  success  last  year.”— 
Ohio  Farmer. 

“  Six  years’  thorough  trial  demonstrates  that  It  is  without 
a  rival  either  in  the  eenuomy  of  its  use,  or  the  excellence  of 
its  work.”— Farmer, 


We  manufacture  a  Pan  for  Brick  Arch  on  the  same  princi¬ 
ple  at  about  half  the  price  of  the  Evaporator. 

SOKGO  Hand  Book  sent  free. 

BLY.MVEIl,  BATES  <fe  DAT, 
Manufacturers  of  Evaporators,  Cane  Mills,  &C., 
Mansfield,  Oliio, 


THE  YICTOH.  CANE  MSEE. 


“  Our  attention  was  arrested  bytlic  performances  ofa  Xew 
Sorgo  Mill.slunvn  by  the  inventor,  Mr.  Clark,  of  the  Clark 
Sorgo  Macliine  Coinpanj',  of  Cincinnati.  Every  efiort  was 
made  to  choke  the  null,  by  crowding  it  to  exce.ss  with  cane, 
bagasse,  limbfi  of  tj'ees,  nearly  the  size  of  a  man’s  wrist,  etc.  • 
but  its  motion  was  as  steady  and  Inexorable  as  the  wheel  of 
fate.  The  striking  feature  in  the  mill  is  tlie  rejection  of  the 
scraper,  or  ‘Dumb  Heturn,’  by  which  a  saving  of  at  lea.sl  one 
thira  of  the  power  was  efi'ected.  There  is  not  a  key  in  the 
whole  mill :  so  that  it  can*be  taken  to  pieces  and  set  up  again 
in  a  few  minutes.  The  lower-journals  rest  in  oil-tight  boxes, 
and  the  oiling  arrangement  is  perfect.  Spring  scrapers  clean 
the  back  rolls,  and  a  perforate(l  plate  or  oridge  prevents  the 
bagasse  from  ‘mopping  up’  the  juice  as  it  leaves  the  mill. 
Nearly  two  thousand  mills  have  been  put  out  bv  tlie  Clark 
Sorgo  Machine  Co.  during  the  last  season.  Such'is  the  pop¬ 
ularity  with  wliich  the  new  mill  has  been  received.  It  merits 
the  attention  of  every  Sorgocultivator.”—/udia;irt;5oZw  Jour¬ 
nal.  (At  the  Indiana  State  Fair.) 

Our  Mills  embrace  no  less  than  11  difl'erent  patents,  which 
cover  about  every  excellence  attainable  iu  a  mill.  Send  for 
Sorgo  Hand  Book. 

CLAF.K  SOHGO  MACHINE  CO., 
Manufacturers  of  Cane  Mills.  Sawing  Machines,  &c.,  &c. 

116  Main-st.,  Cincinnati,  Ohio, 

The  Clipper  oiae  Ilwrse  M®wer 

l8  adapted  to  every  variety  of  surface,  and  to  cutting  every 
kind  of  gnass. 

This  Machine  is  capable  of  cutting  lliree-fourtbs  to  one 
acre  of  tlie  heaviest  grass  per  hour,  andean  be  drawn  .as 
easily  by  one  horse  as  ordinary  two-lior.se  Mowers  by  two 
liorses. 

Tlie  height  of  ent  can  be  varied  liy  tlie  driver  while  tlie 
Machine  is  in  motion,  and  wltbont  leaving  bis  seat.  It  is 
simple,  dnralile,  and  not  likely  to  get  out  of  order. 

Two-Horse  Mowers  and  combined  Macliines  of  tlie  same 
pattern.  R.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New  York. 


B  .A.  la  s  L  E 

PATENT 

STEP  LADDER. 

manufactured  IIT 

■W,  T.  &  J.  MEESEREAU, 

ITo.  59  Duane  Street,  New  Tori. 


Strong,  Light,  and  Ornamental. 
^^Sold  by  all  IIousc-Furnisbing  Agents 


'laW'HreSi  BBHKSE  BtAKES,  best 

»  w  quality,  at  lowest  rates.  For  Sale  by 


Nciu  bork  Slate  ^tjrtcultural  lUovkE 
WHEELER,  MELIGK  &  CO.,  Proprietors. 
ALBANY,  N.  Y., 

Patentees  .ynd  Manufacturers  op 

RAILWAY  AND  LEVER  HORSE  POWERS. 

ConabisBcd  'S'lareslaei's  sand  "^Viniiowers, 
Clover  Mullcr-s  Feed  Cutters,  Sa%v  IW.ills, 
Sliiitgle  UBid  FSeadtaig  Macliines,  Iforse 
Pitclalbrks,  iaor.se  Bakes,  &c. 

{See  cuts  below,) 


SMITHES  GREEN  MOUNTAIN 

SHINGLE  AND  HEADING  MACHINE 


WBIlEKI.Eig,  MELtCM  CO. 

state  and  County  Rights,  address 

F.  KRUM  &  CO., 

Albany,  N.  Y. 


S  1?  “tj 

p3  2  ft 

E3  ^  ^ 

n  ►sj 

,  /7^  MW 

1  hM  ifM 

wM 

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Hit 

OPS 

3  §:  £ 

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a  Ve-  cr  s 

H  •  O  ♦ 

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\  i  ?  S' 

JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 
98  ■Wllllam  st.,  New  York  City. 


Circnlars  and  Price  List  sent  free,  on  application. 

American  Agricultural  tVorki 
No.  17  Conrtland-st..  N.  Y.  Exclu¬ 
sive  Mannfactors  of  the  new  2  in  I 
Reaper  cfc  Mower  with  Seif-Rake. 
'I'bis  Machine  gives  double  ser¬ 
vice  amt  lias  a  forioard  cut  -in 
mowing,  and  rear  cut  and  side 
de/iMiv/ in  reaping,  nnd  price  no 
liigber  than  first  class  Machines 
Also  Smalley’.s  ComljinccJ 
Corn  Plow  ami  Cniliva* 
tor  on  wlieels,  drive 's  seat,  tends 
all  crops,  lias  7  Stee.  Cultivato' 
teetli,  and  4  cast  plows.  $68.00 
Works  t’oire  as  fast  nnd  better  than  any  instrnniect  non 
used.  tVitli  4  Steel  Plows,  $72.  Cheap  instrument.  Il'Ht 
trated  in  April  number  of  tiiis  paper. 

J.  W.  BAIN,  Prest.  Am.  Agricultural  Works, 

No.  17  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York. 


The  IIYDROPULT,  for  snle  at  254  Broadway 
New  York,  nnd  old  ones  made  new  by  repacking  and 
attaching  new  liose.  By 


by  repacking  and 
L.  ROOD,  GenariU  Agcnk 


1865.] 


AMKRTCAX  AG-RICtJI.TURIST, 


165 


im 

& 

c 


«« 

g 

« 


Geared  to  give  tliree  turns  of  tlie  Crank,  or  six 
strokes  of  the  plungers,  for  one  turn  of  tke  hand. 

Two-thirds  the  labor  and  time  required  in  wasliing  by  liand 
and  all  tlie  wear  and  tear  of  tlie  garments  are  saved  by  the 
use  of  the  Nonpareil ;  and  it  may  be  relied  on  to  finish 
the  tcork  without  hand-rubbing.  It  is  simple  in  all  its  parts 
and  strongly  made ;  and  by  its  snperior  mechanical  construc¬ 
tion,  SPEED  and  POWER  are  secured  with  the  least  possible 
expenditure  of  labor. 

For  free  Circular,  and  Terms  to  Dealers,  Address 

OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  1S4  Water-st.,  New-York. 


THE  UIIVEHSAL 

Cog-Whe€5l  CS©tla€§  Wriiig'er 

was  pronounced  superior  to  all  others  at 

The  World’s  Fair,  in  London,  1862, 

received  the  BUONZE  MEDAL  (IiigUcst  premium)  at  tlie 
Great  Fair  of  the 

Amei’ican  Institute,  in  New  York  City,  in  1863. 

It  has  also  received  the 

FIRST  PREMIUMS 

at  the  following  STATE  FAIItS: 

NEW  YO  it K . . . 1S62 . 18C3 

VEKMONT .  18113 

PENNSYLVANIA, . 1803 . 1861 

MICHIGAN, . 1861 

INDIANA .  1863  18M 

ILLINOIS . 1863 . 1881 

IOWA  .  1863  1861 

WISCONSIN . 1861 

CONN.  P.IVER  VALLEY  FAIR . 1861 

CHAMPLAIN  VALLEY  FAIR . 1861 

and  at  tlie  principal  COUNTY  and  INSTITUTE  FAIRS 
throughout  the  land. 

Opinion  of  Orange  Judd,  Esq.,  Editor  Amer¬ 
ican  Agriculturist. 

It  Is,  in  reality,  a  Clothes  Saver !  a  Time  Saver!  and  a 
Streyigth  Saver  !  We  think  the  machine  more  tlian  pays  for 
itself  every  year,  in  tne  saving  of  garments !  There  ai'e  sev- 
erai  kinds',  nearly  alike  in  general  construction,  but  we  con¬ 
sider  it  important  that  tlfe  Wuinger  be  litted  witli  COGS, 
otlierwise  a  mass  of  garments  may  clog  tlie  rollers,  and  the 
rollers  upon  the  crank-sliaft  Slip,  and  tear  the  clothes.  Our 
own  is  one  of  tlie  lirst  made,  and  it  is  as  good  as  new,  after 
nearly  four  years’  constant  use  ! 

JSf  See  also  Premium  list  in  tliis  paper  and  advertisement 
in  back  numbers  of  tlie  Agriculturist. 

Prices  for  the  best  family  sizes— WITH  COGS— No.  2,  $10. 
No.  IK,  •‘f'13.  receipt  of  tlie  price  from  places  where  no 
one  is'  sening,  we  will  send  the  U.  C.  W.  free  of  expense. 
EVERY  WRINGER  WITH  COGS  IS  AVARRANTED! 
Good  canvassers  can  lind  prolitahle  employment  selling 
the  U.  C.  AV.  For  terms  and  Circulars  address 

R.  C.  BROAVNING,  Genl.  Ag't,  317  Broadway.  N.  Y. 

MEM  PiL:Mia  AEiL’S 
PATENT  HAND  LOOM, 

For  weaving  Flax,  "Wool,  Hemp,  Cotton,  and  Silk.  Be¬ 
ing  the  only  complete  Loom  ever  invented.  For  particulars 
enclose  stamp  for  Circular,  lo  the  Manufacturer  for  the 
Kastern  States.  K.  P.  KIDDKK,  Burlington,  Vt. 

Bread  pans  for  making  Sweet,  Light, 

wholesome  bread  without  Yeast  or  Soda,  or  anv  dele¬ 
terious  Ingredient,  for  $1.2o.  Sent  by  Express  by  MlLLFli, 
“WOOD  &  CO.,  15  Laight-st.,  Kew  York. 


BY  JO 

GINGER  SNAPS.  A  collection  of  Two  Thousand 
Scintillations  OF  “Wit.  Tlie  Material  Gathered  and  the 
Whole  Batch  Baked  by  JO  COSE. 

This  new  book  contains  the  Merriest  Thoughts  of  the 
Merriest  Men— sliort,  crispy,  pungent^all  selected  with 
care  so  that  tliey  may  be  read  i)y  Men  and  Women,  Boys  and 
Girls,  at  any  time  and  place.  It  is  a  book  for  Farmers  at 
their  Noonings  under  the  Trees;  for  Folks  at  Home, 
Travelers  in  Cars  and  Steamboats,  Uamblers  at  the 
Seaside  and  in  the  Woods.  Take  it  up  at  any  time  you 
will  iincl  sometliing  you  have  never  seen  before  that  will 
make  you  shake  witli  honest  laugliter.  It  contains  160  pages, 
nearly  2000  Snaps.  Price  m  f<i7icy  paper,  illmh'ated  cotter^ 
red  edge,  only  cts.;  in  boards,  illiistiuited  cover,  red  edge, 
38  cts.:  in  extra  cloth,  embossed  and  lettered,  red  edge,  50 
CTS.  (a  choice  gift  hook).  Wliich  will  you  liave?  Send  your 
money  and  you  sliall  have  your  “SNAPS.”  A  very  salable 
book  for  Agents,  Railway  Booksellers,  and  others,  to  whom 
a  discount  on  quantities  will  be  made.  Address 

AMSDEN  &  CO.,  Publishers, 
Boston,  Mass. 

Children’s  Oar- 

BIA6E9,  SPRIXQ  KOCKIXO 
Homes,  Cantering  Horses, 
Brown's  Baby  Tenders,  Self- 
Operating  Swings  and  Toys. 
S.  TIBBALS, 

510  Broadway,  opposite  St- 
Nicholas  Hotel. 

Send  stamp  for  Circular. 


Woodruff’s  Patent  Portable 

MAiimmTmi. 


SEVEN  OCTAVE. 

ROSEV/OOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  40»-  Broudwuj’,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latest  improvements. 

Tliirty  years'  experience,  with  greatly  increased  facilities 
for  mami'factnring,  enable  ns  to  sell  for  CASH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  instruments  receive<i  tlie  highest 
award  at  the  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  years  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Cask.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 

Poisultir  ISand  &,  Orclacstra  MǤic. 

NATIONAL  ORCHESTRA.- 1st  and  2nd  Violins,  Fintes, 
Clarionet,  Cornet  and  Bass.  33  Nos.  Price  of  each,  60  cents. 
DITSON’S  SELECT  BRASS  BAND  MUSIC.  Printed  on 
Cards,  for  14  or  less  number  of  instruments.  47  Nos.  Price 
of  each,  $1.00.  TERPSICHORE,  for  5  to  18  instruments. 
Price  for  small  orchestra,  60  cts. ;  for  large  orchestra,  $1.00. 
A  complete  list  of  the  pieces  comprised  in  the  above  sets, 
sent  ou  application. 

THE  NEW  GERMANIA:  A  collection  of  Operatic  Airs, 
Marches,  Polkas,  Waltzes,  Quadrilles,  &c.;  for  5  and  6  instru¬ 
ments,  by  Burditr,  $1.50. 

STAR  COLLECTION  OF  MUSIC,  for  Wind  and  Stringed 
Instruments,  by  J.  W,  MOORE.  Price  $2.00. 

Published  by  OLIVER  DITSON  &  CO.,  277  Washington 
street,  Boston. 

MME.  DEMOREST^S  exquisite  and  UN- 

equalled  Toilet  Preparations. — Lily  Bloom,  forimparL 
ing  a  pearly  whiteness  and  beautifying  the  complexion; 
price  50  cents.  Roseate  Bloom,  innocent  as  a  rose,  and  im¬ 
parting  to  the  complexion  tlie  charms  of  youth  and  health  ; 
oO  cents.  Curling  Cream,  an  exquisite  hair  dressing  for  fix¬ 
ing  curls  and  beautifying  the  hair ;  50  cents.  Everlastin.g 
Perfume  Packets— all  the  popular  odors;  price  50  cents 
each.  Sold  by  all  druggists  and  perfumers,  or  mailed  free  oc 
receipt  of  the  price,  at  Mine.  I)Ei\iOREST’S  Emporium  of 
Fashions.  473  Broadway,  New-York.  Dealers  supplied  on 
liberal  terms. 

Evcfi’y  "FsiriBBer  glsosald  leave 

one  or  IfiafisSOirs  ESorse  Elijy  Foa'ks. 


No 

Price 


It  will  not  be  necessary 
to  point  out  to  tlie  readers 
of  the  Agriculturist  tlie 
merits  of  this  valuable  in¬ 
strument.  Having  enlarged 
our  facilities  for  manufac¬ 
turing,  we  are  enabled  to 
meet  promptly  the  very 
rapidly  increasing  demand 
for  these  Barometers  at  a 
small  advance  upon  former 
prices.  Circulars  giving 
full  particulars  sent  free  on 
application  by  mall.  In¬ 
stances  have  occurred, 
wliere  farmers  have  saved 
hundreds  of  dollars  annu¬ 
ally  by  its  use,  often  more 
than  its  cost  in  a  single  in¬ 
stance,  and  Bcientifie  men 
have  estimated  a  total  sav¬ 
ing  of  FITE  PEK  CENT.  On 
all  crops  by  the  use  of  a 
reliahiu  Barometer  to  fore¬ 
tell  impending  changes  in 
the  weather. 

Four  years’  experience 
has  Incontestibly  proved 
this  to  he  the  most  reliable, 
durable,  cbeapest,  .and  only 
Porta  ni.E  Bakometer. 
Independently  of  its  prac¬ 
tical  value,  it  is  well  worth 
its  cost  as  an  ornamental 
article  of  furniture. 

“We  recommend  it  above 
all  others  for  general  use." 
—American  A.griculturist. 

"It  is  really  a  good,  prac¬ 
tical  portable  Barometer.” 
— Scienlifle  American. 

“  I  would  not  be  without 
mine  for  $100.”— O.  JUDD. 


No.  2 
Price  $10. 


AGENTS  WANTED  EVERYWHERE. 
Thermometers  of  all  kinds  and  sizes  and  of  superior  ao 
curacy  and  finish  constantly  on  hand. 

Send  Stamp  for  Circulars. 

CHARLES  WILDER,  Peterhoro.  N.  H. 


Sure  Pop  on  Rats  and  Roaches. 

Druggists,  Merchants  and  Peddlers  find  ready  sale  for 
I£aC  Pai^te  a.nd  Insect  Powder* 
Retail  prices,  30  cents,  60  cents,  and  $1  25.  Orders  for  ^ 
gross  or  more  at  lihenil  discount,  and  sent  free  of  express. 
Address  ADOLPH  ISAACSEN,  46  Fulton-st.,  New  York  City, 
or  BURNHAMS  &  VAN  SCHAAGK,  16  Lake-st.  Chicago,  111. 

0E.OVER  BAKER’S 

HSGMfiiST  S*KI5MSVItt 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  DOCK  STITCH 

SEWING  MACHINES, 

459  BSROAH'^’VA'V,  NEIV  IfOieK. 

I^aaSsSscF  laloves 

Are  a  certain  cure  for  Cliapped  Hands,  S.alt  Rheum,  etc, 
and  an  excellent  protection  for  me  hands  in  Housework 
Gardening,  ete.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1.50  foi 
Ladies’  sizes,  $1.75  for  Gentlemens’,  by 

GOODYEAR  1.  R.  GLOVE  MF’Q  CO, 

205  Broadvray,  New-TorK. 


166 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[May, 


A.  M.  HALSTED,  Laloi*s’  ^lieep  &  LaraU 


G7  Pearl-s4.,  Ncw-York, 

Produce  Coiiimis§ion  Merchant, 

FOS  THE  SALK  OF 

M  t«  b  H  ^ 

s!  Q  g  a  S 

H  ^  g  r 

S  S  ^  ^  » 

^  S  V 

REFEKENCES.— Beni.  Loder,  Esa.,  N.  Y„  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  R.,  Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O.,  Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Chicago.  Ill.,  Geo.  SI.  Todd,  Burlington,  Iowa. 

Send  for  Weeklt  Price  Current,  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

S.  B.  CONOVER, 


Dipping  Composition, 

Cares  Scab,  Ticks  and  Lice  on  Sheep  or  Cattle,  adds 
over  a  pound  of  wool  to  the  fleece.  Improves  its  quality,  and 
adds  to  the  general  health  of  the  sheep,  without  danger 
from  taking  cold. 

For  particulars  apply  to 


Healer, 

260,  261  &  262  West  Wasliington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FCLTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Refers  to  tlie  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


SWIFT  Si,  DEZENDORP, 

Produce  Commission  Merchants,  No.  4  Broadway,  New  York. 
REFER,  BY  PERMISSION,  TO 

H.  D.  Walbridge  &  Co.,  N.  Y.|  King  Brotliers,  Toledo,  Ohio. 
Bllven,  Mead  &  Co.,  “  Kraus  &  Smith,  “  “ 

E.  Bliss,  Esq.,  “  V.  H.  Ketcham,  Esq.,  “  “ 

John  A.  Gilbert,  Esq.  “  '  G.  P.  Smith,  Esq.,Clevel’d  " 

W.  G.  Hibbard,  Esq.,  Chicago,  Illinois. 


Sent  Free. 

The  large  Illustrated 
circular  of  The  Bee  Keep¬ 
ers’  Text  Book  (just  pub¬ 
lished.  Price  in  paper 
covers,  40  cents.  Muslin, 
75).  Also  of  Italian  Bees 
and 

The  American 
Nncleus  Swarming 
lUovabie  Comb 
Bee-IIive. 

Agents  Wanted. 
Terms  Liberal. 

Address 

H.  A.  King  &  Bro., 
Nevada,  Ohio, 


ITALIAN  QUEEN  BEES,  from  our  recent  im¬ 
portations  ;  PURITY  and  SAFE  ARRIVAL  bv  Expiess  guar¬ 
anteed.  Send  for  circular  to  L.  L.  LANGS'fROTH  &  SON, 
Oxford,  Butler  County,  Oliio. 


Fancy  Fowls  for  Sale. 

I  can  furnisli  eggs  or  the  Fowls  of  tlie  following  varieties. 
White,  Dominique  and  Silver  Leghorns,  Wliite  and  Grey 
Dorkings,  Black  Spanish,  Game(Cui)an,  Canada  and  Derby), 
Bramah  Pootras,  Silver  Spangled  llamburgs,  Sehriglit  Ban¬ 
tams  (Golden  and  Silver),  Black  African,  Nankin  and  Game 
Bantams,  Rouen,  Aylsburv,  and  Crested  Ducks,  Cliina  Geese, 
White  Turkeys,  Bronze  Wing  Turkevs,  Fancy  Pigeons. 

Address  "E.  W.  HAINES, 

Elizabetli,  New  Jersey. 


Mew  Foiilts’y 

BOOK,  tells  liowto  have  fresh  eggs  every  week 
in  the  year.  Beantifully  illustrated  with  70  en¬ 
gravings.  Every  body  owning  a  pair  of  Fowls 
oiiglit  to  Iiave  a  copy.  Agents  Wanted. 

Sent  posLpald  for  50  cents.  Address 

L.  B.  SILVER,  Salem,  Ohio. 


■JJOUEA’  B&IJCMS. — Pure  Rouen  Duck  eggs 
-■■•'Will  be  sent  to  order  until  the  first  of  August,  at  S3  00 
per  dozen.  FRANK  CAYtVOOD,  Po’keepsie,  N.  Y. 


Brahma  Pootra  Hens. — Eggs  of  this  superior 
breed  of  Fowls  carefully  packed  and  sent  to  any  address 
on  receipt  of  $1  per  doz.  A.  RANKIN,  Kocliester,  Mass. 


LALOR  BROTHERS.  Utica,  N.  Y. 
Agents  wanted  for  every  State. 

Also  for  sale,  wholesale  and  retail  by 

GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

60  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York, 
and  H.  B.  LANE,  151  N-assan-st.  New-York. 


WlatttcBii®Fc’s  Fere  tbr 

FOOT  ROT  IN  SHEEP,  has  been  thoroughly  test- 
ed  and  when  applied  correctly,  has  not  failed  of  a 
cure.  Has  been  extensively  used  in  Vermont  with  entire 
success.— This  Medicine  is  for  sale  by  all  Druggists  and  by 
the  following  Wljolesale  Agents: 

M.  S.  Durr  &  Co.,  Boston ;  Tarrand  &  Sheely,  Detroit,  Mich.; 
Jolin  F.  Henry  &  Co.,  Waterbary,  Vt. ;  N.  K.  Brown,  Mont¬ 
pelier,  Vt. :  Post  &  Bruff,  Rochester,  N.  Y. ;  Gale  &  Robin¬ 
son,  New  York ;  Eberback  &  Co.,  Ann  Arbor,  Mich. ;  B.  F. 
Vandevort,  Pittsburgh,  Pa.;  J.  G.  Wood  &  Co.,  Poughkeep¬ 
sie,  N.  Y.  And  by  the  Proprietor  and  sole  Manufacturer, 

F.  W.  WHITTEMORE, 

Chatham  Four  Corners,  Columbia  County,  N.  y. 


^ave  yotsr  Fraatt  Trees. 

To  do  tills  effectually,  and  protect  them  from  Insects  of  all 
kinds,  wash  and  scrub  them  witli 

L.  M.  &  C.  ELKINTON’S 
SUPERIOR  SOFT  TREE  SOAP, 
made  expressly  for  tlie  purpose. 

Particular  directions  furnished  to  each  purchaser.  Price 
15  00  per  barrel.  E.  B.  HAYWARD, 

General  Commission  Mercliant, 
Sole  Agent, 

No.  67  Murray-st.,  New-York. 


THE  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKET. 

BEECHER’S  PATENT  May  SJst,  1864. 

All  Fruit  Growers  and  Dealers  who  have  small  fruits  that 
they  wish  to  put  into  market  economically,  and  in  the  best 
condition,  and  most  salable  manner,  should  use  tlie  cele¬ 
brated  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKET.  For  cut  and  descrip¬ 
tion  of  Basket,  see  February  and  March  numbers  of  Ameri¬ 
can  Agriculturist.  Circulars  of  Basket  and  Crates  sent  on 
application  to  A.  BEECHER  &  SONS,  Westville,  Conn. 

Baskets  and  Crates  for  sale  by  W.  H.  CARPENTER, 
90  Vesey-st.,  New-York,  and  otlier  dealers. 


^  ENUINE  STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  by  Mail, 

'U^of  best  quality  and  kinds  put  up  in  best  manner,  safe  ar¬ 
rival  guaranteed,  at  tlie  following  low  rates;  Downer  (ear¬ 
liest),  Cutter  (e-xcellent),  Vicomptesse  (delicious).  Ward’s 
Favorite  (very  fine).  Ilovey  (an  old  friend),  Triompiie  de 
Gand  (very  populan.  30  cts.  per  doz.,  $1  per  100.  Neio  Varie¬ 
ties— ji3  for  6 :  $.)  per  doz.  Buli'alo,  Garahaldi, 
Monitor,  $1  pr  doz.,  $5  pr  100.  French's,  50c.  pr  doz.  $2  pr  100. 
White  Vars  75c.  pr  doz  ;  $3  pr  100.  Sent  nost-iiaid  at  the  doz. 
price,  at  the  100  price  add  20c.  nr  100.  Address 

E.  WILLIAMS,  Mont  Clair,  N.  J, 


H ED-ROOT  OR  LIE  TEA,  OR  NEW  JERSEY 
TEA  (Ceanothus  Americamts).— For  particular  descrip¬ 
tion  see  page  205  and  369  of  tlie  Agriculturist  for  1863.  From 
one  ton  to  fifty  tons  of  fhe  green  leaves  of  this  plant  are 
wanted.  Also  the  Zed«?n  inti'/offwm  or  Labrador  Tea.  I  re¬ 
fer  to  P.  T,  Barnum,  Proprietor  of  the  American  Museum, 
New  York,  for  my  responsibility  and  good  faith.  Send  pro¬ 
posals  to  A.  B.  SUMilEKFIELD,  8  Aun-st.,  New  York. 


Choice  aster  plants  by  man  in  May  and 

June.  Twenty-six  (26)  plants  from  choicest  imported 
seeds  post-paid,  $1.00.  Every  plant  h.as  been  transplanted 
and  will  bear  removal  well.  Orders  solicited  early.  “Mr. 
T.  is  justly  celebrated  for  the  excellent  plants  lie  furnishes.” 
Greenfield  paper.  JOSHUA  THOKNILEY,  Greenfield,  Mass. 


Photographs  of  animals  of  aii  styles 

and  sizes,  plain,  or  flnislied  in  Oil  Colors,  taken  in  tlie 
best  manner  by  RIDGWAY  GLOVER,  818  Arch  st.,  Phila.Pa. 


I  ['OR  SALE. — A  full  blood  young  Alderney  Bull. 

Perfectly  gentle.  For  particulars  inquire  ol  E.  H. 
REEVES  &  CO.,  Agricultural  and  Seed  Store,  185  Water-st., 
N-  Y.  City,  or  at  Hugh  Sutlieilaiid’s,  wliere  tlie  hull  can  he 
ieen,  foot  of  Cereret  Av.,  on  Bergen  Point  Plank  Road, 
Claremont,  13f  miles  from  Jersey  City,  Hudson  Co. 


PURE  ALDERNEY  STOCK  FOR  SALE.  Four 

very  superior  cows  with  calves. 

THOS.  W.  SATTERTH  WAITE,  61  Willlam-st.,  New  York. 


Splendid  GIndioliis. 

French  Hybrids,  various  colors.  A  fine  assortment,  from 
25  cts.  to  50  cts.  eacli.  Sent  by  mall,  prepaid,  on  receipt  of 
remittance.  Catalogues  on  application. 

'  BRILL  &  KUMEULE,  153  Broad-st., 
Newark,  New  Jersey. 


Triomphe  de  CwBintl  Strawberry 

Plants,  very  fine,  75  cts.  per  100 :  $5  per  1,000  :  $40  per  10,000 

G.  E.  MEISSNER,  Richmond,  S.  I.,  N.  Y. 


Sweet  Potato  Plants. 


Thorough  bred  ayrshires.— buiis  and 

Heifers  for  Sale  by  ALFRED  M.  TREDWELL,  Madison, 
Morris  County,  New  .lersey. 

For  sale. — 2-year-oId  thorougli-bred  Alderney 

Bull,  a  superior  animal.  3  three  months  calves,  y  blood. 
For  particulars  apply  to.  or  address  GEO.  E.  LOCK  WOOD. 
Morocco  Factory  cor.  Flushing  &  Classon  Av’s,  Brooklyn.L.I. 


Agents  wanted  lor  sale  of  Trees,  Plants  and 

Seeds,  In  all  the  loyal  States  ]J.  M.  WATSON, 
_ Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 

Buy  the  Best-— Ilalsted’s. 


At  50  cts.  per  100  ;  $3  00  per  1000,  for  sale  by 

FRANCIS  BRILL,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 


Tujmip  Seed. 

New'Sweet  German  (beat  late  keeping  winter,  true,)  and  all 
other  best  early  and  late  Turnips,  by  mail  or  Express.  Priced 
catalogues  to  any  address.  B.  M.  AVATSON, 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


i^EEDS  BY  mail,  PRE-PAID.— All  the  most 
fSprofitablo  and  successful  sorts  of  Onions,  Bekt,  Cab- 
UAOE,  Melons,  SqUASu,  Tuenip,  and  other  seeds,  at  lowest 
rates.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Plymouth.  Mass. 


PARSONS  &  CO., 

at  FIiisbliBg,  near  New  York. 

Call  attention  to  the  planting  of  EVERGREENS  for 
which  this  month  is  the  time. 

No  class  of  trees  will  so  enliven  the  lawn  or  pleasure 
grounds  during  the  winter  season. 

They  offer  nearly  200  varieties  of  fine  size  and  form  with 
good  roots.  Among  them  are 

Nokway  Spkdok. 

Scotch  Fib. 

Austkian  Pine. 

Hemlock  Spkuoe. 

CUPEESSUS  LaWSOKIANA. 
lEISn  JUNIPEB. 

Swedish  Jhnipbb. 

Pyp.amidal  Jdnipsb. 

Bhotan  Pine. 

Dwarf  Pine. 

Erect  Yew. 

American  Arbor  ViT.a. 

Siberian  do  do 

Also  of  small  size  the  following  more  rare  varletlea. 

Dwarf  Norway  Spruce. 

Weeping  do  do 

Oriental  Spruce. 

Conical  do 

Cephalotaxus. 

Cunninghamia. 

Chamaecyparis  VARIEGATA. 

Jdnipeeus  oblonga  pendula, 
do  squamata. 

PiCEA  NOEDMAKIANA. 
do  CEPIIALONIOA. 
do  PICHTA. 
do  FIRMA. 
do  GRAKDIS. 

do  kobilis. 

Finus  uncinata. 

do  STROEUS  COMPAOTA. 
do  SIONTICOLA. 

PODOCARPUS.  • 

Retikospora  pisifeka. 

Taxus  adpressa. 

do  ELEGANTISSniA. 
do  AURKA. 
do  ERIC01DK8. 

Thuja  aukea. 
do  pendula. 
do  Hoveyi. 

do  occidentalis  cojipacta. 

-  do  PLICATA. 

THUJIOPSIS  BOREALIS. 

Torkeya  taxifolia. 

ALSO 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  health. 

STOVE  PLANTS  In  variety. 

RHODODENDKONS,  both  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
in  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  they  refer  to  their  Catalogues  for 
which  address  them  at 

Flusbin^,  near  Nfew-Yorlc. 


Agriculturist  strawberry,  25  cts.  each. 

Osage  Plants,  1000,  $15  and  $12.  Grapes,  largest,  best, 
cheapest  stock  we  know,  Iona,  Adirondac,  Israella,  Dela¬ 
ware.  Concord.  Hartford,  Norton’s  Virginia.  Creveling,  Dla- 
na,  Itogers’  Hybrids,  &c.,  &c..  Catawlia,  1  and  2  year,  per  1000, 
$i0  to  $iK).  Koses,  600  varieties,  many  very  new  and  choice. 
Lilies,  Gladiolus,  Dahlias,  Tiger  Flowers,  Tuberoses,  100  $2 
to  $6.  Green-House  and  Bedding  Plants,  an  immense 
stock ;  74  fine  licdders,  our  clioice,  packed,  $10.  Garden 
Plants.— Sweet  Potato,  Nanseniond,  5000  packed,  $15,  Cab¬ 
bage,  Tomato,  Peppers,  Egg  Plants.  &c.,  &c.  Good  Agents 
wanted  by  the  mouth.  Address  F.  K.  PHCENIX, 

Bloomington  Nurseiy,  McLean  Co.,  Ill. 


Hubbard,  Turban,  Yokohama  ! 

lam  receiving  letters  dally  from  all  parts  of  the  United 
States,  Irom  Farmers,  Gardeners,  and  others,  wlio  pronounce 
my  Turiian  to  be  tlie  di  vest,  sweetest,  finest  grained  and 
most  delicious  fall  squash  tliov  ever  ate.  The  Hubbard  is 
universnlU/  acknowledged  to  be  the  bestof  all  winter  squash¬ 
es,  wliile  the  new  Japan  Squash,  the  Yokohama,  is  pro¬ 
nounced  tlie  very  best  of  its  class.  I  teas  the  original  intro¬ 
ducer  of  the  Hubbard  and  Turban  squashes.  Packages  of 
seed,  (all  of  my  own  growing.)  sent  by  mail,  with  full  direc¬ 
tions  for  cultivating,  for  25  cents  eacli  for  Turban  and  Yoko¬ 
hama,  and  15  cents  for  Hulihi  rd.  Five  packages  ef  Turban 
or  Yokoliania,  $1.00.— Hubbard  by  mail,  post  paid  by  me. 
$2  62  per  pound. 

JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY,  Marblehead,  Mass. 


The  true  cape  cod  cranberry  for 

Spring  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  culture,  and  for 
swamps.  Under  my  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  busliels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  with  prices  of  plants,  with  nursery 
catalogue  complete,  will  be  sent  to  any  address. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  PIjTuonth,  Mass. 


rf^RANBERRY  PLANTS. — The  best  bearing  vines 
'U^and  no  others,  can  be  had,  not  by  the  Thousand  but  by 
the  barrel.  Enquire  of  Poet.  B,  H.  STEVENS,  Essex,  Conn. 


MANSEMOND  sweet  POTATO  PLANTS.— 
Of  best  quality,  during  May  and  June.  Put  up  to 
carry  safely  long  distances.  Prices,  200,  $1 ;  1,000,  $3;  5000, 
$13 ;  10,000,  $25.  This  variety  is  liardy,  prolific,  and  profitably 
grown  at  tlie  North.  Send  for  our  circular  of  instructions, 
and  experience  of  those  growing  tliem.  Address, 

Murray  &  CO.,  Foster’s  Crossings,  IVarren  Co.,  O. 


PLANTS,  PLANTS,  PLANTS: 

Sweet  Potato,  Tomato,  Egg,  Pepper,  Cauliflower,  Cabbage, 
and  every  variety  of  Green-House,  and  Hot-House  I’lants. 
Sold  by  I.  J.  Simonson,  at 

GRIPPING  BRO.  &  CO’S.,  Seed  Store, 

60  Courtlandt-st.,  New  York. 


Hot  Water  Fiirnaces 

for  Warming  Grccn-liouses,  Conservato¬ 
ries,  Graperies,  Jkc. 

WEATHERED  &  CUEUEVOY,  117  Prince-st,,  New- York 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


167 


BEST  FARi^iiiC  LA^OS  In  the  WORLD 


FOR.  S.i%JC„E  BY  THE 

ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  CO., 

Xn  Tracts  to  suit  Furchaeers,  AT  LOW  FEICBO. 


THE  UiLTNOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  COMPANY  HAVE  FOR  SALE, 

600,000  ACRES  of  the  best  Farming  Lands  in  the  Country. 

The  road  extends  from  Dunteith,  in  the  north-western  part  of  the  State,  to  Cairo,  in  the  extreme  southern 
part,  with  a  branch  from  Centraiia,  one  hundred  and  thirteen  miles  north  of  Cairo,  to  Chicago,  on  the  shore  of 

Lake  Michigan _ altogether  a  length  of  704  miles — and  the  land  which  is  offered  for  sale  is  situated  upon  either 

side  of  the  track,  in  no  instance  at  a  greater  distauce  than  fifteen  miles. 

State  of  Illinois. 

The  rapid  development  of  Illinois,  its  steady  increase  in  population  and  wealth,  and  its  capacity  to  produce 
cheap  food,  are  matters  for  wonder  and  admiration.  The  United  States  Commissioner  of  Agriculture  estimates 
the  amounts  of  the  principal  crops  of  1864,  for  the  whole  country,  as  follows:  Indian  corn,  530,581 ,403  bushels; 
wheat,  160,695,823  bushels;  oats,  176,690,064  bushels;  of  which  the  farms  of  Illinois  yielded  138,356,135  bushels 
of  Indian  corn;  33,371,173  bushels  of  wheat;  and  24,273,751  bushels  of  oats — in  reality  more  than  one-fourth  of 
the  corn,  more  than  one-fifth  of  the  wheat,  and  almost  one-seventh  of  the  oats  produced  in  all  the  United  States. 

Grain— Stock  Raising. 

Pre-eminently  the  first  in  the  list  of  grain-exporting  States,  Illinois  is  also  the  great  cattle  State  of  the 
Union.  Its  fertile  prairies  are  well  adapted  by  nature  to  the  raising  of  cattle,  sheep,  horses  and  mules;  and  in 
the  Important  interest  of  pork  packing,  it  is  far  in  advance  of  every  other  State.  The  seeding  of  these  prairie 
lands  to  tame  grasses  for  pasturage  or  hay,  offers  to  farmers  with  capital  the  most  profitable  results.  The 
hay  crop  of  Illinois  in  1864  is  estimated  at  2,166,725  tons,  which  is  more  than  half  a  million  tons  larger  than  the 
crop  of  any  other  State,  excepting  only  New  York. 

Inducements  to  Settlers. 

The  attention  of  persons,  whose  limited  means  forbid  the  purchase  of  a  homestead  in  the  older  States,  is 
particularly  invited  to  these  lands.  Within  ten  years  tho  Illiuois  Central  Railroad  Comp.any  has  sold  1,400,000 
acres,  to  more  than  20,000  actual  settlers:  and  during  Uie  last  year  264,422  acres — a  larger  aggregate  of  sales 
than  in  any  one  year  since  the  opening  of  the  road,  llie  farms  are  sold  in  tracts  of  forty  or  eighty  acres, 
suited  to  the  settler  with  limited  capital,  or  in  larger  tracts,  as  may  bo  required  by  the  capitalist  and  stock 
raiser.  The  soil  is  of  unsurpassed  fertility  ;  the  climate  is  healthy  ;  taxes  aro  low  ;  churches  and  schools 
are  becoming  abundant  throughout  the  length  and  breadth  of  the  State  ;  and  communic:i4ion  with  all  tho  great 
markets  is  made  easy  through  railroads,  canals  and  rivers. 

PRICES  AND  TERMS  OP  PAYMENT. 

Tho  price  of  lands  varies  from  $9  to  $15  and  upwards  per  acre,  and  they  are  sold  on  short  credit,  or  for 
cash.  A  deduction  of  len  per  cent,  from  the  short  credit  price  is  made  to  those  who  buy  for  cash. 

E  X  .A.  M  B  E  E  : 

Forty  acres  at  $10  per  acre,  on  credit;  tho  principal  one-quarter  cash  down — balance  one,  two  and  three 
years,  at  six  per  cent,  interest,  in  advance,  each  year. 

INTEUEST.  PKINCIPAl..  1NTXHE5T.  PBIIVCIPAI.. 

Cash  Pftrmant, . $18  00  $100  00  |  Payment  In  two  years, . $6  00  100  00 

PajmontlnoBe  year, . it  OO  100  00  |  "  three  years, .  100  00 

’X'he  Same  I.and  muy  be  Parchased  for  S3GO  dash. 

Full  information  on  all  points,  together  with  maps,  showing  tho  exact  location  of  Lands,  will  be  furnished 
on  application,  in  person  or  by  letter,  lo 

LAND  COMMISSIONER,  Illinois  Central  R.  R.  Co.,  Chicago,  Illinois. 


MARYLAND  FARMS,— GEOGRAPHI- 
“iVvcal  description  of  Maryland,  with  Catalogue  of 
Maryland  Lands,  for  sale  by 

R.  W.  TEMPt.EM.AlV  &  CO., 

Laiid  Agents, 

48  Lexlngtou-strecl,  (Up  stairs,) 
Baltimore  City, 

Embracing  a  description  of  the  Soil  autl  Products  of 
Maryland. 

Send  Twenty-five  Cents  for  a  Copy. 


FOR  ^  A  ff.  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 

L  I>  ^ 

IN  NEW  JERSEY. 


ECWKE  A  HOME. — Lands  for  sale  in  the  Cele¬ 
brated  Fruit  Settlement  of  Hammonton,  New  Jersey,  80 
miles  from  Philadelphia,  on  Railroad,  and  near  the  5iew 
York  Railroad.— No  better  soil  in  the  State.— For  Fruits, 
Vegetables  and  Early  Gardening,  is  the  best  in  the  Union.— 
Hundreds  of  Acres  now  producing  to  be  seen,  on  which  is 
made  from  $200  to  $G00  per  acre.  Mild  and  healthy  climate. 
Soft  Water,  Churches,  Schools,  Mills,  Stores,  &c.  Price  from 
$20  to  $2.5  per  acre,  for  20  acres  and  upward.  10-acre  fruit 
^rms,  $300.  Terms  easy.  Title  perfect.  For  full  information 
Address  R.  J.  15VUNES,  Haminonton,  N.  J.  Letters  answered. 


Cheap  Maryland  Farms. 

$40  to  $:40  per  acre,  convenient  to  Eailroad,  Navigation, 
Cliurdlies,  Schools,  &c.,  &c.,  situated  on  the  Eastern  Sliore. 
Many  northern  families  are  settling  liere.  Descriptive  circu¬ 
lars  giving  all  information  sent  Tree  to  all  applicants. 
Address  H.  P.  CHAMBEKS,  Farm  Agent, 

Federalsburg,  Md. 


Farms  for  SAlE  of  40  to  iso  acres  each,  of 

the  richest  ag" .cultural  land  in  Bock  Co.,  Wis.,  near 
Janesville  Oily,  well  timbered.  The  Madison  railway  runs 
through,  and  Uie  Southern  Wisconsin  on  their  border.  Apply 
to  J.  f.  K.  PF.ASE,  Janesville,  or  to  B.  F.  DAWSON,  9  East 
Bth-street,  New  York. 


THE  SUBSCRIBEKS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purciiasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  tlie  line  of  the  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-Tork  and  Pliiladelphia,  at  $10  per  acre. 
In  addition  to  ail  the  common  products  of  a  farm,  these  lands 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet  potatoes,  peach¬ 
es,  grapes,  tobacco  and  hops.  All  crops  ripen  ten  days  ear¬ 
lier  than  on  Long  Island.  Squankum  marl  is  delivered  at 
any  point  on  the  railroad  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per 
ton,  and  fertilizes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  applica¬ 
tion.  The  lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber, 
suitable  for  lumber  and  cord  W’ood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  off,  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cnltlvation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100.  Cord  w'ood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  quantity  ot  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  the  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  witliin 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  Tlie  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  e.\'cellent.  Lands  well  w.atered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  The  whole  purchase  money  may  re¬ 
main  on  mortgage  for  a  terra  of  years  if  desired,  if  the  pur¬ 
chaser  cultivates  tlie  land. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHET  WOOD,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O  GILES.  70  &  TZ  Franklln-st.,  New- York. 


so.ooo 

I^Acres  at  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms.— Fran k- 
linville  Tract. — Gloucester  County,  New  Jersey,  25  miles 
south  of  Pliiladelphia,  on  Railroad  running  from  Philadel" 
phia  and  Camden  to  Cape  May.  in  lots  to  suit- purciiasers 
Circulars  witli  reports  of  Solou  Robinson,  Hon.  Wra.  Parry, 
and  otliers,  witli  full  Information,  sent  free  by  addressing 
JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO„  Franklinvillc,  Gloucester  Co. 
New-Jersey.  Also  Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


J^RUCE’S  PATENT 

€4>BtccBafrated  Manure 

Is  no  longer  an  experiment.  Three  years*  trial  has  proved 
Its  SUPERIORITY  over  all  other  MANURES.  It  &  com¬ 
posed  of 

Animal  Fibre,  Blood  and  Pnre  Ground  Bone. 

It  is  not  because  of  these  VALUABLE  INGItEDLENTS 
alone  that  we  claim  its 

GREAT  FERTILIZING  POWER. 

It  Is  also  in  the  Patest  process  thkough  -which  it  pass¬ 
es  in  its  manufacture,  by  which  we  are  enabled  to 

CONCENTRATE  THE  NECESSARY  FOOD  FOR 
VEGETATION. 


C^ITTIOIN'. 

There  Is  a  new  fertilizer  in  market  called  by  a  similar 
name,  the  agents  of  wliich  have  taken  from  our  Circular  of 
1804,  testimonials  in  regard  to  BRUCE'S  CONCENTRATED 
MANURE,  and  are  using  them  to  sell  their  article. 

ORDER  DIRECT  FROM  US. 

We  have  no  Agents  in  IVe-»v  York  City,  and  see 

that  the  barrels  are  branded 

BRUCE'S  PATENT  CONCENTRATED 
MANURE. 

C.  W.  VAN  DOREN  &  CO., 
GRIFFING  BROXYIEK  A  CO., 

58  &  60  Courtlandt-strcet,  New-Tork. 


We  also  sell  at  Wholesale  and  Retail 

LODI  CO.’S  Pondrette. 

EXCELSIOR  CO.’S  Pondrette. 

HOVT’S  Superphosphate  of  Dime. 
PLASTER  &  Pure  Ground  Bone. 

GRIFPINGS  BRO.  &  CO., 

58  &60  Courtland-st.,  N.  Y.  City. 


AfiSBiBiosaiatcd  Faeiiic  Cruaiao. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phosphate  of  Lime  ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  It  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Frice  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  the  Trade. 

Pamphlets  with  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
from  scientific  agriculturists,  showing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st.,  New- York. 

The  Crcuaaasae 
iSESUCE  FEIFITM^EH. 

The  best  as  well  as  the  cheapest  m.anure  in  the  market, 
made  by  Mr.  Duncan  Bruce,  is  for  sale  by 

GEO.  E.  WHITE  CO.,  55  Cliff-st., 
and  by  the  principal  dealers  in  Agricultural  wares. 


Another  of  our  regular  Series  of  Great 

$10©  Prize  Puzzles 

appears,  with  numerous  attractions,  in  the  May  number  of 
MERKTMAN’S  MONTHLY. 

the  Great  N  ational  Comic  Magazine.  $100  Prizes !  $30  Prizes ! 
$.3  Prizes !  $1  Prizes !  iW  Prizes  are  paid  in  greenbacks,  so 
there  can  be  no  humbug.  Names  and  addresses  of  winners 
are  published  in  the  next  number.  Don’t  fail  to  get  tlie  MAT 
number  of  MEllKYMAN.  Price  15  cents.  Sold  by  News 
Agents,  Booksellers,  Sutlers  and  all  dealers.  Sent  post-paid 
on  receipt  of  price. 

Make  this. - j - [figure  with  three 

strokes  of  the  pen-  cit,  without  eras¬ 
ing  any  lines,  or  go-] _ | _ |lng  over  tlie  same 

lines  twice.  Averyi  i  i  icurious  thing.  Try 

it,  and  if  you  fall  (as  you  surely  will), 

see  the  full  and  corn! _ L_ _ ' _ l-plete  solution  in 

MEliKYMAN.  US’”  Tlirce  different  numbers,  as  samples, 
sent  to  any  address  post-paid  for  tliirty  cents.  A  rare 
chance  to  procure  a  good  magazine  very  clieap. 

Address  J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO., 

lOONassau-street,  Mew  York. 


The  Herald  of  Health 

AND 

JOURNAL  OF  PHYSICAL  CULTURE  is  just  the  tiling  for 
every  invalid,  for  parents  who  would  bring  up  their  children 
in  health  with  be.autiful  forms  and  elastic  steps.  Jan.,  Feb,, 
March  and  April  Nos.  for  60  cts.  post  free.  15  cents  a  number, 

SI  50  a  year.  First  six  Nos.  tor  1865,  and  tlie  New  Hygiene 
ook  Book,  by  Mattie  M.  Jones,  M.  D.,  all  for  $1  00.  Cook 
Book  alone  for  30  cts.  Every  person  who  would  know  how 
to  cook  healthful  food  for  sick  or  well  should  have  it. 
Address  MILLEU,  WOOD  &  CO.,  15  Laight-st.,  N.  T. 


Love  on  the  brain.— a  rollicking  and 

mirth-provoking  Song  that  pleases  everybody,  both 
young  and  old.  Kisses,  Blisses,  Hearts,  Darts,  Aromatic 
Pain  Everybody’s  troubled  once  with  Love  on  the  BKAIN. 
Price  30  cents.  Published  by  W.  Jennings  Demorest,  No. 
39  Beekman  street,  and  sold  by  all  Music  Dealers.  Mailed 
free  on  receipt  of  the  price. 


Huy  the  Eiglitest-- -Halsted’s. 


168 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


(Business  notices  :  $1  25  pei  agate  line  of  space.) 

BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 


[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  AgricuUnrCst  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  Jane  1st.] 

Allen’s  (L.  F.)  Rural  Architectnre . $  1  50  B 

Allen’s  fU.  L.)  American  Farm  Hook .  1  50 

Allen’s  Dise.ases  of  Domestic  Animals . .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier .  SO 

American  Rose  Cnltnrist .  30  „ 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants .  1  75  g 

Art  of  Saw  Filing — (Holly) .  60  J 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden .  1  75  g 

Beecher’s  (Henry  Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming..  1  25  > 

Benreiit’s  Poulterer’s  Companion .  2  00  j 

Beinent’s  Rabbit  Fancier . . .  30  i 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia .  1  50  i 

Bonssingault’s  Rural  Economy .  1  60  i 

Hrldgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual .  i3  j 

Bridgem.an’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant .  2  00  j 

Brldueman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor. .  75  j 

Bridgeman’s  Florist's  Guide .  .  75  i 

Brandt's  Aee  of  Horses  (English  and  German) .  50 

Brock’s  Book  of  Flowers .  1  50 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures .  1  50  j 

Bulst’s  Flower  garden  Directory .  1  50 

Bulst’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener .  1  00  j 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America .  4  50  ! 

Carpenters  and  Joiners’  Hand  Book. . (Holly). . . .  60 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide .  75 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book .  60 

Colman’s  Agriculture . 5  0.1 

Copeland’s  Country  Life .  4  50 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper .  <■? 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  (Turner) . 1  aO 

Dadd's  Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  .50 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor .  1  5(1 

Dadd’s  Anatomy  of  the  Horse.... (colored) .  5  (10 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual .  1  ‘2-5 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) . . . oO 


Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening  (new  Edition) .  6  50 

Downing’s  Cottage  Kesidence.s . .  . . . .  2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America .  3  00 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry .  75 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide .  f  50 

Emplovmeiit  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny .  1  .50 

Every  Ijady  tier  own  Flower  Gardener .  30 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener .  1  50 


2  23 


1  50 
1  50 


new  plan,  entitled  “  Lessons  for  Every  Sunday  in  the 
■Year.”  They  are  arranged  in  series  of  52  lessons  each, 
with  many  notes,  references,  etc.  These  are  selected 
so  that  with  the  “  Connecting  History”  they  give  a  com¬ 
prehensive  and  connected  view  of  the  whole  Bible. 
No.  1  embraces  the  period  from  the  Birth  of  Christ  to 
the  end  of  Acts.  No.  2  embraces  the  whole  New  Testa¬ 
ment  in  its  connecting  history,  but  is  mainiy  upon  the 
second  part  of  the  book.  No.  3  extends  from  .4 dam  to 
Elijah  ;  and  No.  4  (not  yet  ready)  will  extend  from 
Elijah  to  Christ.  They  are  approved  and  used  byfcll  de¬ 
nominations  ;  and  are  adapted  to  scholars  of  all  ages, 
able  to  read  the  Bible.  Nos.  1,2,  and  3,  are  noiv 
ready.  As  an  evidence  of  their  value,  it  may  be  stated 
that  of  No.  I,  the  first  issued,  about  150,000  copies 
have  already  been  called  for.  Price  of  each  series,  15 
cents  e.ach  ;  $1  50  per  dozen  ;  $12  per  100.  If  to  go  by 
mail,  4  cents  each  extra  for  postage;  or,  if  in  packages  of 
ten  or  more  3  cents  each.  As  specimens,  Nos.  I,  2,  and  3 
will  be  sent  post-paid  for  50  cents.  Address  Publisher  of 
American  A griculturist.  New  York. 


EXTRACTS. 

These  Extracts  are  prepared  from  selected  materials, 
and  perfectly  represent  the  articles  whose  name  they 
bear,  and  are  superior  to  any  similar  preparations.  The 
following  are  put  up  in  two-ounce  bottles,  and  packed  in 
boxes,  to  go  by  express :  'Vanilla,  liemon,  Urange, 
Nectarine,  ISosc,  Bitter  Almond,  Mace, 
Nutmeg,  Allspice,  Clinger,  and  Celery. 

Vanilla  and  Rose,  50  cents  per  bottle,  $5.50  per  doz. 

All  otliers.  -  35  “  “  $4.00  ” 

Assorted  to  order  at  these  prices. 

Liquid  Rennet,  for  making  Curds  and  'Wbey,  Junket, 
and  other  delightful  luxuries  for  the  summer  season  or 
tlie  sick  room.  Put  up  in  four-ounce  bottles,  at  35  cents 
each,  or  $4  per  doz.  Address,  P.  W.  BEDFORD, 

Pliarmacentist,  769  Sixtli  Avenue,  New-York. 


Flax  Culture . (Ready  this  month) .  50 

Frencli’s  Farm  Drainage .  1  50 

Field's  (Thomas  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  '23 

Fish  Culture . . .  123 

Flint  (Charles  L.)  on  Grasses .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming .  2  00 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturlst .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturlst .  20 

Goodalc’s  Principles  of  Breeding .  . .  1  00 

Grav’sManual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  iQ  one  Vol .  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  ^ 

Guenon  on  Milcli  Cows .  la 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery .  1  ’2.;) 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  &c  . . . .  5  00 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain .  3  50 

<10  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates...  4  50 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers .  1  75 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  bv  Cleveland .  1  oO 

Hop  Culture . (Ready  April  25tli)..... .  40 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One .  1  la 

Jaques’  ITuits  and  Fruit  Trees .  60 

Jennings  OA  Cattle,  Sheep.  &c .  1  »0 

Johnston’s  Agrirultural  Chemistry.  . .  1  la 

Johnston’s  Kle.iients  of  Agricultural  Cheniijtry .  1  2a 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

l.aiigstroth  on  the  Honey  Bee  . . . .  2  00 

London’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies  Flower  Garden .  2  03 

Lenchar’s  Howto  BuiUl  Hot-lioiises .  1  50 

Liehig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry .  aO 

Liebig’s  MoSern  Agilciilture .  1  2a 

Llnsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses  .  .........  1  .>0 

Manual  ot  Agriciilttre  by  G.  Itmersoii  and  C.  L.  Flint.  1  00 

Mavliew’s  Illuiitrated  Horse  Doctor .  3  5U 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management .  3  50 

McMahon’s  Amerlcun  Gardener .  2  50 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot..... .  <a 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  7a 

My  Farm  of  Edgevrood . .  . .  2  OJ 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record. ...  .  1  aO 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener — (Pardee) .  1  50 

Norton’s  Ocicntlfic  Agriculture .  '5 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Iniphee .  1  25 

Giilon  Culture  . . . ••••-■ . .  " 

Our  Farm  of  F’oiir  Acres  (hound)  60c . (paper)  aO 

Pardee  on  Stiawberry  Culture .  i5 

Parsons  en  the  Rose  . . .  j 

Plian tom  Bouqnel,  or  Skeleton  Leaves  .  1  aO 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer . w 

Quinby’B  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping .  1  la 

Rabbit  Fancier...  ........ .  ”1 

Randall’s  Sheep  Husbandry  . . . . .  l  50 

RandivlTs  Flue  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry. ..  .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden .  a  W 

Rivers’ Orchard  Houses . . . 50 

Rural  Affairs. . . . (bound) . . . .3  Vols^  .  each .  1  aO 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of  3  Vpls  iiiorpcco .  9  aO 

do  do  do  do  S  Vols.. cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book . 

Shepherd’s  own  Book . 

Skillful  Housewife  . 

Smith’s  Laiidscaiie  Gardening  . . . 

Spencer’s  Ldncalioii  of  Children . . 

Stew.art's  (.’olmi  Stable  Book . .  4  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough . v."  ;  .  i '-n 

Thaer’s.  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture .  2  oO 

Thomas’ Fruit  Culturlst  . .  150 

Thomr-son’s  Food  of  Animals .  l  oo 

TobaccTr Culture  . .  . .  . .  « 

Todd’r,  Co.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual .  1  50 

Tucker's  Register  Rural  All'airs .  SO 

Vaux’a  Villas  and  Cottages. .  S  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture .  1  50 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  1  50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture .  1  00 

Watson’s  American  Iloiiie  (lardeti .  2  oo 

Wax  F’lowers  (Art  of  Making) .  1  aO 

■Wheat  Plant  (John  Klippart’s) .  1  aO 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes. .  l  aO 

Yoiiatt  and  .Spooner  on  the  Horse .  ;  I 

Youatt  and  5fartin  on  Cattle .  1  50 

Yonatt  on  the  Hog .  *  oo 

Youatt  on  Sheep .  i  oo  , 

Youmans’  Household  Science .  2  to 

Youinans’  New  Cliemistiy .  2  on 

f^ctnooS  SaBporimtfl-JKlvBats  | 
and  'ffeacUers  will  be  interested  in  Hie  series  of 
small,  clieap,  but  rompreliensive  Lesson  Books,  on  a 


Ecoisomicai  Monsdceepers  Ese 

Pyle’s  Saleratus.  I  Pyle’s  O.  K.  Soap. 

Pyle’s  Cream  Tartar.  |  Pyle’s  Blueing  Powder. 

Arlicles  designed  for  all  wlio  want  the  best  goods,  full 
weight.  Sold  by  be't  Grocers  everywhere.  Each  pack¬ 
age  bears  the  name  of  JAMES  PYLE,  Manufacturer, 
New  York. 

RIF  !  ISIF  !  RIF  !  RIF  ! 

THE  PATENT  SEWING  RIPPER  has  proved  one 
of  the  most  acceptable  new  inventions.  It  takes  out  a 
seam  more  rapidly  and  safely  tlian  knife  or  scissors: 
being  used  for  that  only,  is  always  in  order;  is  small  and 
neat ;  is  indispensable  for  the  work  basket  and  especially 
where  a  sewing  machine  is  used. 

Price  50  cents.  Sent  post-paid  by  mail.  Liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  dealers.  Agents  wanted  everywliere.  Address 
II.  LEE,  No.  ill  Fulton  street.  New  York  City. 


AAS>  I.AAT>S.  in  a 


F 


mild  and  licaltlifiil  climate.  Thirty  miles  south  of  Pliila" 
delpliia  by  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore.  Md 

The  soil  is  rich  and  productive,  varying  from  a  claytoa 
sandy  loam,  suitalile  for  Wlieat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  Tliis  is  a  great  fruit  country.  F'ive  liun- 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orcliards  have  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaclies,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con. 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual' settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  Tlie 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan^ 
tages  has  become  the  resort  of  people  gf  taste.  It  lias  in 
creased  five  thousand  people  within  the  past  three  years. 
Churclies,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  he  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  IMce  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  In 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  ail  kinds  of  business,  Lumber  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  F'oundries,  Stores,  and  the  like. 

F'or  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  healthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  heantifiilly  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  other  social  privileges,  in  the 
lieart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  the  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson.  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies.  » 

Polar  Refrigerator. 

The  BEST,  therefore  the  cnEAPEST. 

LESLEY  &  ELLIOTT,  4D4  Broadway. 


T  EWIS  EA©MUS,  IFIAMOND 
dealer  and  JEWELER,  802 
Chestnut  street,  Phil;idelphia,  Pa.,  has 
always  on  hand  a  magnificent  assort¬ 
ment  of  DIAMONDS,  WATCHES, 
JEWELRY.  AND  SILVER  WARE,  at 
moderate  prices.  Old  Gold  and  Silver,  also  Diamonds, 
bought  for  casli.  Watches  repaired  and  warranted. 
Watches  and  Jewelry  can  be  sent  by  mail  witli  safety. 


Enng,  Female  and  Cliroiiic  Diseases 

treated  successfully  at  Drs.  S.  S.  &  S.  E.  STRONG’S 
Remedial  Institute,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y.  See  last 
month’s  No.  of  Agriculturist.  For  full  information  send 
for  a  Circular. 

gpriiag-  ClolliiasgfoB’  M«‘bs  iassd  Boys. 
EARGE  STOCK. 

PRICES  REDUCED. 

ARB  ATT  &  MOORE,  No,  507  Broad  waj’. 
Under  St.  Nicholas  Hotel. 


HO!  FOR  RICHMOMD! 

ARTICLES  FOR  SOLDIERS 

AT 

Rfelunond,  'Wilmiiigton,  Cliaricston, 
Savannah,  and  other  Places  should 
toe  sent  toy 

THE  Mimm  EXPRESS, 

No.  65  Ba’oadtvay. 

Arctic  Cream  Freezer. 

These  Freezers  have  now  been  four  years  before  tlie  Pub¬ 
lic,  and  altliough  nearly  fifty  thousand  have  been  sold  under 
the  guarantee  that  the  four  smallest  sizes  will  actually  freeze 
cream  iu  four  minutes,  we  do  not  know  of  a  single  instance 
where  they  have  not  given  entire  satisfaction. 

SIZES  AND  PRICES.— 1  qt.  $3.00—2  qts.  $4.00—3  qts.  $5.00— 
4  qts.  $6.00—6  qts.  $8.00—8  qts.  $10.00—14  qts.  $15.00—23  qts.  $20. 

A  liberal  discount  to  the  Trade. 

E.  S.  &  I.  TOKREY,  72  Maiden  Lane,  New-York, 

.  Sole  Manufacturers. 


B 


ASHFULNESS.— HOW  TO  OVERCOME  IT. 

See  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOUItNAL.  Jan.  No.  20  cts. 
FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway.  New-York. 


Boys  and  Girls!— Barents! 

THE  YOUTH’S  TEMPERANCE  VISITOR  is  the 
best  Cliildren’s  Temperance  Paper  in  the  World! 
Monlhly,  8  pages,  uiili  Pictures,  Stories,  Music,  Dia¬ 
logues,  Puzzle.s,  etc.  Premiums  offered.  50  cents  a 
year.  An  agent  uauled  in  every  town, 

Z.  POPE  VOSE,  Publisher,  Rockland,  Maine. 

BSiaeSc  Toliiiae.s  Jk.  Xsiiuhci's  Supplied. 

We  liavc  complete  sets  of  Vols.  16, 17, 18, 19,  20,  21, 22,  and  23, 
unbound,  and  bound  in  neat  covers  willi  gilt  lettered  hacks. 
Prices  at  tlie  office:  bound  $2.00;  unbound  $1,50  each. 
Back  Volumes  are  sent  prepaid  by  mail,  (.they  can  not 
go  unpaid.)  if  bound,  $2.45  each  ;  if  unbound ;  $1.74  each. 
Single  numbers  of  any  of  tlie  .above  Volumes,  15  cents  each. 
For  German  Edition,  add  50  cts.  per  volume  to  all  the  above. 

Binding.— Sets  sent  to  the  office  will  be  hound  up  neatly 
(in  our  regular  style  of  binding)  for  75  cents  a  volume. 

PiiKPARED  CovEKS.— Covers  for  binding,  neatly  made,  with 
title,  etc.,  gilt  upon  the  back,  ready  for  the  insertion  of  the 
sheets  by  any  hookhiiidor,  can  be  furnished  for  Vols.  16,  to  23 
inclusive,  at  45  cents  per  cover.  Covers  can  not  go  by  mail. 


^gritulturist. 

For  tlic  Farm,  Garden,  and  ISoiiMeliold. 

A  TiioitouGH-GOiNG,  RELIABLE,  and  PRACTICAL 
Journal,  devoted  to  Hie  different  departments  of  SOIL 
CULTURE— such  as  growing  fiei.d  CROPS  ;  ouchabd 
and  GARDEN  FRUITS;  garden  VEGETABLES  and 
FLOWERS:  TUBES,  plants,  and  flowers  for  Hie 
LAWNorYARO;  care  of  DOAIESTIC  ANIMALS, 
etc.,  and  to  HOUSEHOLD  LABORS,  with  an  inleresling, 
instructive  department  for  CHILDREN  and  YOUTH. 

Tlie  Editors  are  all  puactical  WORKING  JIEN. 

The  teachings  of  the  Agriculturist  are  confined  to  no 
State  or  Territory,  but  are  adapted  to  all  sections  of  the 
country — It  is  for  the  whole  A.merican  Continent. 

TEKMS  (in  advance);  SS-SO  per  year;  Four 
Copies  one  year  for  $5  ;  Ten  Copies  one  year  for  §185 
Twenty  or  more  Copies  one  year  for  SI  each. 

IJT^Add  to  Hie  above  rates;  Postage  to  Can:idH,  12  cents; 
to  England  and  Fr:ince,  '24  cents  ;  to  Germany,  36  cents. 

Post:ige  anywiiere  in  Hie  United  St.ates  and  Territories 
must  be  paid  by  the  .sub.scriher,  and  is  only  three  cents  a 
quarter,  if  paid  ill  advance  at  Hie  office  where  it  is  received. 
Address  coiiimiinications  to  tlie  Publisher  and  Proprietor, 

ORANGE  JlfOD,  41  Park-Row,  New-York  City. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  THE 

H'arm,  GrarcTen,  and.  Honseliold. 


“AGRIOtriiTURE  IS  TIIK  MOST  HEARTHFUI.,  MOST  ESEFUR,  ANM  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOTMENT  OP  MAN.w-Wiiinmofc ' 


ORAIVOJG  JUDD,  A.M., 

PUBLISHER  AND  PROPRIETOR. 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

Fabllshd  also  in  German  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


t  «1.50  PER  annum,  in  advance 

j  SmOLB  number,  is  cents. 

(  4  Copies  for  S  5 ;  10  for  S 13  j  30  or  more,  $1  eacb. 


.VOLUME  XXIV— No.  6. 


NEW- YORK,  JUNE,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  221. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1861,  by 
Orangk  Jodd,  In  the  Clerk’s  Ofllce  of  Uie  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  the  Southern  District  of  New-Tork. 

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Contents  for  June,  1865. 


Ants— Howto  Exterminate..... . 191 

Ashes,  Coal  for  Walks  and  Roads . 185 

Bees — Apiary  in  June . 1-2 

Boys  and  Girls'Coluinns- How  to  Keep  Good  Natured 

_ Feb.  14th — Woman’s  Day— Problems  and  Puzzles 

—Left  at  Home  Alone—”  A  Good  Boy  Wanted”— 
About  Sleep— The  First  Locomotive -Puffing  Billy 

_ Indian  Tradition— Rocks  in  Connecticut — Wall 

Street  and  Fly  Market  . .  . 4  Illustrations  .  191-192 

Bridges— Rustic . . . .  . . Illustrated. .  185 

Broom  Corn — How  to  Plant . 182 

Buckwheat— Cultivation  of. .  ....183 

Butter— How  to  Make  and  Keep . 190 

Cabbage  Culture— Notes  on . .186 

Castration  of  Calves  and  Colts . 178 

Cheese  Making  from  Few  Cows . 189 

Clover,  Red — Management  for  Seed . 182 

Colts — Halter-breaking  Young . 181 

Corn — Maniuing  When  Growing . 178 

Corn — Thinning  in  the  Hills  . 178 

Currant  Worms — How  to  Kill . 187 

Dandelion, and  its  Uses . . Illustrated.  .189 

Evergreens— Pruning  and  Shaping  . 186 

Farm  Work  in  June .  169 

Fault-finding  with  Children . 190 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawns  in  June . . . 171 

Financial  Wonder . 194 

Flowers — Convolvulus  minor . Illustrated. .  188 

Food  for  Children— Liebig’s .  189 

Fruit  Garden  In  June . . 171 

Garden— Kitchen  in  June . 179 

Grapes-Cold  Grapery  in  June . 171 

Grass  Land— Top-dressing  . 178 

Grass  Seed— Sowing  with  or  without  Grain . 182 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  June . 171 

Hay  Fork  and  Stacker — Horse  Power. ../f/uslroted..  177 

Hay— Pitching  into  Windows  with  Horse  Fork . 178 

Hedge -How  to  Make  Close . 183 

Horses— Breeding  for  Heavy  Work . 183 

Horses,  Pulling — Halter  for . Illustrated.  .ISl 

Horses— Sires  for  Heavy  Draught . Illustrated.. ISi 

Houses — Small  (Convenient  &  Cheap. 4  Illustrations.  .177 

Insects  Destroyed  ^  Benzine .  188 

Labels  for  Trees— Zinc . . 186 

Layers — How  to  Propagate  from . 187 

Lightning  Rods — How  to  Put  up . . . 190 

Live  Stock  Market  Report . ....172 

Manure- Management  of  Barn  Yard . 182 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  June . 169 

Orchard  and  Nursei7  in  June . 170 

Peat — Preparation  for  Fuel . ..183 

Perfumes — Method  of  Preparing .  . ..190 

Plants  with  Ornamental  Foliage  . 188 

Plow— Lifting  Subsoil .  . Illustrated.  .\8l 

Premiums  for  Obtaining  Subscribers . 172 

Rope— Hitching  Horse  to . Illustrated. .  177 

Scuffle  Hoes,  Hoeing  and  Carrots . 179 

Shading  and  Mulching . 186 

Sheep— A  rt  of  Shearing . 180 

Shears— How  to  Grind . Illustrated.  .189 

Sheep — How  to  Hold  for  Shearing..  . 180 

Sheep  Shears— How  to  Hold . .  IllustraM . .  180 


Strawberry  Premium . 194 

Strawberry  Show  at  Agriculturist  Office . 172 

Strawberries— Method  of  Preserving . 191 

Strawberries  Sent  to  Subscribers . 194 

Subsoiling  Wet  Ground . 181 

Tanning  Fur  Skins . 191 

Taste.s — A  Frequent  Mistake . 187 

Tim  Bunker  on  the  Pickle  Fever . 176 

Tree,  Remarkable — The  Sand  Box . Illustrated .  .188 

Trees  for  Prairies — White  Maple . Illustrated.. \8b 

Varnish  for  Furniture . 191 

Vegetables— Sowing  for  Succession . 187 

Water — Pure  Needed  for  Stock . 179 

Well  Curb  and  Friction  Brake . .Illustrated.  .180 

Wool— Fleece  Folding  Tab.e . Illustrated.. 181 


INBEX  TO  “BASKET,”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


Barley,  Sprout  Manure. .174 

Bees,  Burying . 174 

Birds  and  Strawberries.  .173 

Bones,  Dissolving . 174 

Bones,  Use  for . 174 

Borer  Remedies . 173 

Buckwheat,  Wild.. .172 
Catalogues  Received. .  ..174 
Cattle  Gnawing  Bones.  ..174 
Chipmucks.  Repelling..  .174 

Coal  Aslies,  Use . 174 

Cornell  University  .. .  .175 

Cows,  Gestation  . 174 

DonationsAoknowledgedl73 
Downing’s  Landscapes.  .173 
Elecampane,  Killing.  ..173 

Farm  Laborers . 175 

Fountain,  Regulating.. ..174 
Flowers  for  Shade  ...174 

Galvanized  Iron . 175 

Hair  Crimpers,  Ivins’..  ..173 
Humbug  Doctors . 173 


Kerosene  Burner,  Good 

Lice  on  Hogs.. . 

Live  Stock  Markets . 

Peaches,  Budding . 

Plants,  Mixing . . 

Plants  Named . 

Pruning  Apple  Trees.. . 
Purchasers.  Word  to.... 
Report.  Fruit  Growers’. 

Sap  Spouts . . 

Scratches  and  Grease.., 

Sheep  Shearings . 

Sheep  Show . . 

Shingles,  Fire  Proof..... 
Str.Twberry  Preserves. . . 
Striped  Bug  Preventives 

Strawberries,  First . 

Tobacco  Culture . 

Turnips  for  Hogs . 

Trees,  Trimming . 

Vegetables  of  America.. 
Waspish  Item . 


.173 

174 

173 

174 
174 
173 
,173 

173 

174 

173 

174 

174 
173 

175 
173 
173 
173 

173 

174 
174 
174 
173 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 


June  is  the  month  of  most  rapid  growth  and 
the  Maize  fields,  which  have  looked  yellow  and 
poor  during  May,  under  the  hot  suns  of  this 
month  unfold  their  leaves  like  armies  with 
banners,  and  so  other  crops,  if  they  are  in 
open  and  well-worked  soils,  push  forward  into 
leaf,  and  blossom,  and  fruit.  We  liave  work 
enough  to  finish  planting,  to  keep  down  the 
weeds,  and  to  work  the  surface,  so  that  the  air 
may  always  have  free  access  to  the  roots  of  the 
crops.  Tlie  grass  has  made  a  great  growth  in 
many  localities  during  the  past  month,  and 
where  mowing  ground  has  been  well  prepared 
for  irrigation,  the  second  heavy  crop  of  hay  is  by 
this  time  ready  for  the  scythe.  The  forward¬ 
ness  of  tlie  season  has  enabled  farmers  to  get 
well  aliead  with  much  of  their  work,  and  there 
is  less  excuse  than  usual  for  lack  of  thorough¬ 
ness  of  culture.  The  powerful  rains  which  may 
have  hindered  farm  work  somewhat,  are  very 
likely  to  be  followed  by  dry  weather  in  June, 
for  which  deep  tillage  and  frequently  working 
the  soil  are  the  only  remedies. 

Barns  and  STieds. — Sweep  thoroughly  and  put 
in  order  for  hay  and  other  crops.  Where  a 
small  quantity  of  hay  or  straw  remains  in  the 
bottom  of  the  mow,  pitch  it  up  aloft,  where  it 
may  be  used  in  the  former  part  of  the  foddering 
season.  Remove  manure  wherever  it  is  in  con¬ 
tact  with  wood-work,  and  see  that  driving  storms 
do  not  wet  the  frame  timbers.  Clean  and  paint 
eaves  troughs,  and  remove  limbs  of  trees  with¬ 
in  a  yard  of  the  sides  or  roofs  of  buildings. 

Bam-yard. — Turn  all  water  from  the  roofs  of 
buildings  or  other  sources  away  from  the  barn¬ 
yard.  If  the  ground  be  wet,  make  a  good  under¬ 


drain  entirely  aroUnd,  and  excavate  the  middle, 
puddling  it  with  clay  protected  by  cobble  stones, 
so  as  to  retain  all  the  liquid  manure. 

Barley.— Send,  a  carefbl  man  and  pull  all  dock, 
winter  cress,  wild  mustard,  etc.,  from  the  grow¬ 
ing  grain.  If  land  is  in  good  heart  where  winter 
wheat  has  failed,  barley  may  be  sowed  even  in 
June,  and  will  yield  a  fair  crop. 

Beans. — Where  a  hill  of  Indian  corn  has  failed, 
plant  three  hills  of  early  beans.  If  rows  be  far 
apart,  a  row  of  beans  is  often  planted  between 
them  at  the  last  dressing  with  a  liorse  hoe. 

Beets. — Mash  lumps  in  the  soil  with  a  wood¬ 
en  mallet,  a  few  hours  after  a  shower — this 
will  be  almost  equal  to  a  hoeing — pull  up  all 
weeds  near  the  young  plants.  Good  crops  may 
be  raised  even  when  planted  in  June,  if  the  soil 
and  cultivation  be  good. 

Butter. — Give  cows  an  abundance  of  sweet 
grass  and  clean  water,  and  access  to  salt;  see 
that  boys  and  dogs  do  not  worry  them ;  milk 
regularly  with  clean  hands ;  keep  milk  in  clean 
and  sweet  vessels,  and  in  a  cool,  pure  apart¬ 
ment;  churn  often;  work  the  butter  well  with 
anything  but  the  bare  hands ;  use  only  the 
purest  and  best  salt;  pack  in  clean  jars  or 
tubs ;  keep  cool,  and  the  butter  will  be  equal 
to  prime  “  Orange  County.” 

Cafibages. — Put  out  the  plants  in  good  season ; 
apply  a  heavy  dressing  of  horse  manure,  well 
worked  into  the  soil;  hoe  mornings  while  the 
dew  is  on,  working  over  the  earth  a  few  inches 
deep ;  and  we  will  almost  guarantee  large,  hard 
heads.  Insects  may  make  the  result  doubtful. 

Carrots. — Pull  all  weeds  near  the  young 
plants  when  the  soil  is  wet.  Carrots  require 
clean  cultivation.  Where  the  seed  failed  to 
come  up,  put  in  turnips  or  onions.  See  “  How  to 
Raise  Carrots”  in  May  number. 

Cheese. — Read  article  on  Cheese,  page  189. 

Com. — Keep  cultivators  and  horse  hoes  in 
operation  until  the  corn  becomes  large  enough 
to  shade  the  ground.  Hot  and  dry  weather  is 
the  best  time  to  subdue  grass  and  weeds. 
Read  article  on  cultivating  corn  on  page  178. 

Clover  Seed. — Read  the  article  on  the  manage¬ 
ment  of  Clover  Seed  on  page  182. 

Cattle. — See  that  all  cattle  have  access  to  pure 
water.  Where  they  drink  at  a  pond,  large  poles 
or  sticks  of  timber  should  keep  them  from  going 
into  the  water  to  stand,  as  they  usually  dung 
immediately  after  drinking.  Do  not  feed  too 
many  animals  on  the  same  ground.  One  good 
cow,  well  fed,  will  yield  more  milk  than  two 
cows  on  short  pasture. 

Calves. — Keep  calves  in  clean  and  dry  yards 
or  pens,  and  mow  a  little  grass  daily  for  them. 
June  is  one  of  the  best  months  to  commence 
improvements  in  neat  cattle.  Where  calves  are 
allowed  to  suck,  put  a  little  wheat  flour  in  one 
end  of  a  small  trough  and  salt  in  the  other  end, 
where  calves  can  reach  it  They  soon  eat  meaL 


170 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


Cellars. — Clean  house  and  barn  cellars  ;  wash  the 
windows  ;  whitewash  the  walls,  and  sprinkle  quick¬ 
lime  where  there  is  dampness  or  impurity. 

Dairy. — Look  out  for  improvements  in  selecting 
cows  for  the  dairy  as  well  as  making  butter  and 
cheese.  Make  a  horse  or  sheep  do  the  churning. 

Flo.x. — See  that  water  does  not  stand  at  all  on 
any  part  of  the  field.  Pull  large  weeds  while  the 
plants  are  small.  Review  the  article  on  Flax  Cul¬ 
ture  in  the  April  number. 

Grain  Fields. — Keep  fences  in  good  repair  around 
them,  and  confine  turkeys  and  all  other  fowls  that 
persist  in  going  on  the  grass,  as  they  will  break 
down  and  destroy  more  than  they  are  worth. 

O^'oss  ^eed. — Fields  may  be  plowed  and  sowed 
with  grass  seed  this  month,  without  any  kind  of 
grain.  Still  it  is  better  to  sow  two  or  three  pecks 
of  rye  per  acre,  to  partially  shade  the  young  grass. 

Faying. — Commence  haying  in  good  time.  Where 
there  is  much  grass  to  cut,  some  of  it  must  be 
mowed  before  it  is  really  fit ;  otherwise  a  good  pro¬ 
portion  will  become  too  ripe.  Grass  will  make  the 
best  hay  if  cut  when  the  stalks  are  full  grown 
and  the  heads  are  in  full  bloom.  When  there  are 
weeds  among  the  grass,  cut  it  before  their  seeds 
are  formed.  Grass  is  much  less  liable  to  be  injured 
by  hot  and  dry  weather  if  cut  when  quite  green. 

Hoove. — Watch  all  animals  that  feed  on  red  clover, 
and  prevent  this  dangerous  disease  which  comes 
from  over-feeding.  “  See  Basket.” 

Implements. — During  rainy  and  leisure  days  ex¬ 
amine  mowers  and  reapers  to  see  if  they  are  in 
running  order.  Take  them  apart ;  remove  gum  and 
dirt  from  the  journals  and  boxes  ;  oil  afresh,  and 
screw  up  all  nuts  and  tighten  loose  rivets.  The  effi¬ 
ciency  of  tools  and  implements  depends  almost 
altogether  on  their  condition. 

Manure. — ^Prepare  compost  for  winter  grain  and 
top-dressing  for  grass  land.  Collect  barnyard  ma¬ 
nure  into  covered  quarters,  or  protect  as  much  as 
practicable  from  alternate  rain  and  sunshine.  Barn¬ 
yard  manure  should  be  forked  over  to  fiicilitate  rot¬ 
ting  ;  and  where  it  is  so  deep  as  to  fire-fang,  water 
or  liquid  from  some  part  of  the  yard,  pumped  upon  it. 

Millet. — Whore  the  soil  is  moderately  fertile,  sow 
millet  at  any  time  previous  to  the  25th  of  the 
month  in  our  latitude.  From  8  to  12  quarts  per 
acre  is  sufficient  unless  the  seed  be  large.  Millet, 
grows  r.apidly  in  mellow  soil  and  bears  drouth  well. 

Oats. — Mow  off  Canada  thistles,  and  any  other 
weeds  that  appear  above  the  oats.  This  so  checks 
their  growth  that  they  injure  the  crop' but  little. 

Oxen. — Feed  workers  a  few  quarts  of  meal  every 
day,  whether  they  labor  or  not,  as  it  will  give  them 
strength,  make  them  endure  the  heat  better  and 
increase  their  market  value  more  than  the  worth  of 
the  meal.  Never  allow  ill-natured  drivers  to  worry 
and  beat  oxen  while  at  work.  Provide  such  te.ams- 
ters  with  a  soft  leather  lash  and  limber  stock,  with 
which  they  cannot  strike  a  hard  blow. 

Pastures. — Do  not  feed  off  permanent  pastures 
too  closely  the  former  part  of  the  season,  unless 
there  is  a  large  proportion  of  Kentucky  blue  grass, 
which  is  better  to  be  kept  short.  If  grass  gets 
the  start  of  stock,  and  begins  to  head  out,  it  will 
make  much  better  pasture  to  mow  off  all  the  seed 
stems,  as  animals  will  not  relish  them;  andwhen  seed 
is  allowed  to  form,  a  large  portion  of  the  vital  ener¬ 
gies  of  the  plant,  which  are  exhausted  in  produc¬ 
ing  the  seed  and  stems,  would  make  excellent  grass. 

,  FUatoes. — Cultivate  thoroughly  and  hoe  well  be¬ 
fore  the  tops  begin  to  fall  over,  and  sprinkle  a 
handful  of  wood  ashes  around  the  stems  of  every 
hill.  Never  allow  careless  laborers  to  strike  their 
hOes  into  the  ground  near  the  hills,  as  roots  that 
would  bear  tubers,  may  be  cut  off.  Potatoes  do 
not  need  root  pruning  If  weeds  close  to  the  hills 
are  too  large  to  be  covered  with  earth,  ijull  them. 

Poidtr-y.—llo  gratify  the  secretiveness  of  hens, 
make  nests  where  they  can  not  be  seen  by  other 
fowls,  when  they  are  laying  or  sitting.  If  nests 
be  too  deep,  eggs  will  rest  on  each  other,  which 
should  never  occur.  See  “Basket.” 

i%as.— Sow  apart  of  an  acre  the  last  of  the  month 


for  seed.  If  sowed  soon  enough  to  mature  before 
early  frost,  they  will  be  free  from  bugs. 

Poultry. — Feed  well ;  let  them  out  of  the  yard 
before  sunset  daily ;  supply  them  with  a  box  of 
sharp  gravel,  where  there  is  none  in  the  soil.  Whole 
grain  should  be  soaked  at  least  twenty  hours  for 
them ;  and  if  ground,  it  will  go  much  farther. 

Ruta-Bayas. — Do  not  fail  to  raise  a  few  square  rods 
of  them  for  stock  next  winter.  Pulverize  the  soil 
thoroughly,  manure  it  well,  and  sow  the  seed  in 
drills  two  feet  apart,  as  soon  as  the  ground  is  dry 
enough  to  work  after  a  good  shower.  Then  a  crust 
of  earth  will  not  prevent  them  from  coming  up. 

Roofs. — Examine  roofs  of  out-buildings  when  it 
rains.  Leaky  places  will  usually  be  found  where  a 
shingle  has  been  split  directly  over  a  joint  of  the 
next  course  below.  In  such  a  case  another  shingle 
may  be  driven  beneath  the  split  one. 

Rye. — Spring  rye,  two  bushels  per  acre,  may  be 
sowed  during  this  month,  to  be  cut  for  horse-feed 
before  early  frosts. 

Rotation  of  Crops. — Raise  crops  that  are  best 
adapted  to  the  soil,  rather  than  attempt  to  adapt 
the  soil  to  the  crops.  Every  farmer  should  adopt 
some  kind  of  a  rotation,  if  he  has  not  already  done 
so,  as  this  is  one  of  the  fundamental  principles  of 
scientific  agriculture.  See  “  Basket.” 

Sheep. — Let  sheep  have  access  to  salt  in  a  water¬ 
tight  tub,  or  trough.  When  salted  only  occasional¬ 
ly,  they  consume  too  miieh  for  their  health.  Protect 
from  cold  storms  for  some  weeks  after  shearing. 
Apply  a  little  pine  tar  to  their  noses  to  repel  the 
fly.  Separate  bucks  from  ewes,  or  fetter  their  fore¬ 
legs,  about  five  or  six  inches  apart,  that  they  may 
be  impotent  to  harm.  Designate  the  age  and  char¬ 
acter  of  each  sheep  by  significant  marks  on  the 
rumps  or  shoulders.  A  figure  (1,  2  or  3,  etc.)  on 
the  shoulder  may  signify  a  ewe  and  her  age,  and 
one  on  the  rump,  a  wether  and  its  age. 

Swine. — Pigs  designed  for  pork  next  fall  should 
be  separated  from  the  sows  as  soon  as  they  will  eat 
readily.  Keep  them  in  moderately  close  quarters  ; 
as,  when  running  about  in  large  enclosures,  they 
will  expend  a  great  deal  of  material,  without  adding 
proportionately  to  their  growth.  There  is  nothing 
better  than  milk,  oat  and  barley  meal  and  wheat 
flour  unbolted,  to  make  pigs  grow.  It  is  sometimes 
more  economical  to  feed  wheat  flour  than  oat  meal 
to  pigs.  Where  pigs  are  chiefly  valuable  as  ma¬ 
nure  makers,  see  that  they  have  enough  muck,  sods, 
weeds,  etc.,  to  work  over. 

SorgJmm. — When  the  plants  are  young  they  are 
very  tender.  They  need  dressing  and  hoeing  with 
care.  Careless  men  and  boys  will  often  retard  their 
growth  by  cutting  off  the  roots,  and  burying  the 
leaves.  If  the  ends  of  the  leaves  be  covered  with 
earth  the  growth  will  be  checked. 

Weeds. — Wage  an  unceasing  warfare  against  weeds 
and  bushes  this  month.  Mow  them  close  to  the 
ground ;  cut  them  with  hoes,  or  pull  them.  It 
injures  Canada  thistles,  ox-eye  daisies,  and  other 
perennials  materially  to  cut  them  close  to  the 
ground  just  before  they  blossom.  We  tell  work¬ 
men  in  our  employ  that  a  sharp,  steel  hoe  is  poison¬ 
ous  to  weeds,  when  it  cuts  them  off  below  the  sur¬ 
face  of  the  ground. 

Wagons — Keep  them  well  protected  from  rains 
and  sunshine,  as  the  continued  influence  of  these 
injures  vehicles  more  than  the  ordinary  use.  Rain 
will  hurt  them  but  little  if  they  are  kept  in  the 
shade.  A  liberal  coat  of  linseed  oil  on  the  wheels 
will  often  save  dollars  for  resetting  the  tire. 

Wool. — Keep  the  floor  clean  while  shearing  ;  tie 
it  up  neatly ;  arrange  the  fleeces  to  show  advanta¬ 
geously  ;  and,  keep  it  in  a  clean  apartment  where 
mice  or  rats  will  not  carry  chaff  and  straw  among  it. 

Work. — Keep  in  advance  rather  than  behind  your 
work.  Perform  every  operation  in  good  time  and 
in  a  thorough  manner. 

Wood. — Split  and  pile  whatever  firewood  is  ex¬ 
posed  to  the  weather,  so  that  it  may  dry  out  before 
it  becomes  water-soaked. 

Wheat.— Cni  off  all  heads  of  rye,  cockle,  chess, 
and  pull  gromwell  (incorrectly  called  pigeon-weed), 
from  the  growing  crop. 


[June, 


Work  ill  tlie  Orchard  and  Nursery. 

It  seldom  happens  that  the  nurseryman'is  tdore  'j 
crowded  than  he  has  been  the  present  season.  The  ' 
sales  were  unusually  large,  and  the  time  for  filling  | 
orders  was,  by  the  forwardness  of  the  season,  I 
rendered  very  brief.  The  benefit  of  providing  all  j 
possible  appliances  for  facilitating  work,  on  the  [' 
part  of  the  nurseryman,  and  the  early  sending  in 
of  orders,  on  that  of  the  purchaser,  were  never 
more  strikingly  manifest  than  they  were  this  spring,  j, 
and  those  who  have  suffered  from  past  neglect  !' 
of  either  precaution,  should  profit  hy  the  lesson. 

Birds. — Encourage  the  visits  of  insect-eating  : 
birds,  and  destroy  sap-suckers  and  birds  of  prey.  I 

-  Black  Knot. — The  only  remedy  is  the  knife.  If  j; 

it  occurs  on  large  limbs,  cut  it  out  when  it  first  j; 
appears,  down  to  perfectly  sound  wood,  and  cover  P 
the  wound  with  grafting  wax.  If  the  trouble  is 
too  deep  for  this,  or  is  upon  small  limbs,  off  with 
the  limb  and  burn  it  at  once,  to  keep  the  spores  ' 

from  propagating.  The  knot  is  a  minute  fungus,  ; 

and  all  the  talk  about  diseased  sap  and  curculios,  ; 
as  the  cause,  is  fancy,  opposed  to  established  fact. 

-  Budded  Stocks. — These  will  need  looking  to,  not  I 
only  to  remove  the  suckers  which  spring  from  the  '■ 
stock,  but  to  see  that  the  rapidly  growing  shoot  is 
properly  secured  against  breaking  by  wind,  or  from  I 
its  own  weight.  The  portion  of  the  stock  left  ' 
above  the  bud  is  usually  sufficient  to  tie  the  shoot 
to,  but  where  it  is  not,  place  a  stake  for  tying.  ^ 

Evergreens. — In  ordinary  seasons,  these  may  be  ' 
removed  this  month,  but  at  the  present  time  they 
will  probably  be  too  far  adv.anced.  If  the  attempt 
is  made,  the  precautions  given  last  month  should  ! 
be  followed.  Keep  the  grass  away  from  around  the 
newly  planted  ones.  Trim  and  shape  trees  and  ■ 
hedges  as  recommended  on  page  186.  -  .  i 

Oh-afts. — Those  inserted  this  spring  will  need  at¬ 
tention,  to  replace  the  covering,  if  removed,  and 
support  or  check  very  rampant  growing  shoots. 
Rub  off  any  buds  that  shoot  up  near  the  graft.  •  ; 

Insects. — These  are  now  making  havoc  with  the 
foliage.  If  a  caterpillar’s  tent  is  observed,  do  not 
rest  until  it  and  its  builders  are  destroyed.  Pulling 
the  nest  off  with  the  hand,  and  trampling  under 
foot,  is  quite  as  effeetive  as  the  use  of  the  many 
contrivances  recommended.  A  swab,  wet  with  ' 
some  disagreeable  liquid,  may  often  be  used  to  ad¬ 
vantage.  See  article  elsewhere  on  the  use  of  ben¬ 
zine,  and  on  the  use  of  white  hellebore  upon  the  : 
currant  worm.  Moths,  which  are  about  looking 
for  a  place  to  lay  their  eggs,  may  be  killed  in  gi'eat 
numbers  by  setting  a  lighted  lamp  in  a  large  pan  of  | 
water  at  night.  Jar  the  plum  trees  daily,  and  catch 
the  curculios  on  a  sheet  and  kill  them. 

Layers. — The  new  growth  of  shrubs  may  be  treat-  | 
ed  as  directed  on  page  187. 

Labels. — Trees  when  sent  from  the  nursery  fre-  j 
quently  have  the  labels  secured  so  firmly  that  I 
whenever  the  limb  increases  slightly  in  size,  a  ' 
troublesome  stricture  is  made  by  the  wire  cutting 
into  the  bark.  It  is  well  to  look  at  once  to  the 
labels  of  newly  set  and  all  other  trees,  and  see  that  ; 
no  trouble  can  arise  from  this  cause.  1 

Manure. — A  top-dressing  of  manure,  spread  over  1 
the  roots  of  fruit  trees,  will  help  the  growth  of  I 
the  wood  and  the  developement  of  the  fruit. 

Mulch. — Newly  planted  trees,  especially,  need  it.  | 
Sufficient  is  said  on  page  186. 

Pinching. — The  shape  of  a  tree  is  easily  modified 
by  a  little  care  when  it  is  jmung.  By  removing 
those  young  shoots  not  needed,  and  stopping  the 
growth  of  those  disposed  to  grow  too  long,  by 
pinching  off  the  end,  the  form  of  the  tree  is  quite 
under  control,  and  much  pruning  is  avoided. 

Seedlings. — Young  seedlings  of  forest  trees,  and 
evergreens  especially,  need  shading  by  some  of 
the  methods  mentioned  on  page  186.  The  little 
evergreens  will  be  benefited  by  sifting  a  layer  of 
sand,  or  light  earth,  over  them,  to  cover  the  stems 
up  as  far  as  the  seed-leaves. 

Thinning. — Do  not  allow  any  fruit  tree  to  be  in. 
jured  by  over-bearing.  It  will  pay  besides,  in  the 
increased  size  and  beauty  of  the  remaining  fruit. 


171 


1865.]  AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


T'Feerfs.— Nothing  looks  worse  than  neglected 
nursery  rows.  Use  the  plow  and  cultivator  so 
rigged  that  no  injury  can  be  done  to  the  stock  by 
the  horse  or  whiffletrees. 


KitcliCBi  Garden. — Everything,  weeds 
included,  is  now  growing  as  if  for  the  fun  of  the 
tiling.  The  very  early  start,  in  this  neighborhood 
about  two  weeks,  rather  disarranges  our  calcula¬ 
tions  in  preparing  the  calendar,  and  could  we 
have  known  that  the  season  would  have  got  so  far 
ahead  of  time,  our  May  directions  would  have  been 
rather  more  in  accordance  with  it.  '  Even  in  this 
forward  season,  it  is  not  too  late  to  sow,  okra, 
melons,  and  those  things  which  grow  all  the  better 
if  they  have  a  warm  soil  from  the  start.  An  article 
on  sowing  for  succession,  on  page  187,  may  afford 
some  useful  hints. 

•  Asparagus. — The  cutting  ought  not  to  be  con¬ 
tinued  much  after  the  first  of  June,  the  present  year. 
It  is  a  mistake  to  exhaust  the  roots  by  excessive 
cropping.  Keep  the  bed  free  of  weeds  until  the 
tops  shade  it. 

■  Beans. — Sow  for  a  succession  for  stringing  and 
shelling.  The  main  crop  for  dry  beans  may  be  put. 
in.  Limas  may  still  be  planted. 

Cabbages,  CauUJloioer,  and  Broccoli. — Set  out  as 
directed  on  page  186.  Forward  the  growing  crop 
by  frequent  hoeing  and  liquid  manure.  Destroy 
caterpillars  when  young. 

Carrots  may  still  be  sown.  Hoe  between  the 
rows  as  soon  as  the  plants  can  be  seen,  and  when 
sufBciently  large,  thin  to  from  3  to  6  inches  in  the 
row.  See  article  on  page  179. 

Cilery. — The  earliest  crop  may  be  set  in  trenches 
2  feet  deep  and  one  foot  wide,  with  the  soil  at  the 
bottom  well  enriched.  Water  in  dry  weather. 

Corn. — Plant  every  two  weeks  for  a  succession. 

Capsicums,  or  Peppers. — Set  in  a  warm,  rich  spot. 

Cucumbers. — Plant  the  main  crop  for  pickles  the 
middle  or  last  of  the  month,  putting  in  plenty  of 
seed  to  guard  against  loss  from  insects.  Surround 
the  young  plants  by  frames,  as  recommended  last 
month,  page  155.  Hoe  until  the  vines  are  too  large. 

Egg  Plants. — These  need  the  best  of  soil  and  cul¬ 
ture,  in  cold  climates,  to  forward  them  so  th.at  the 
fruit  will  perfect  in  season.  Hoe  the  earth  to¬ 
wards  the  plant.  Set  at  least  two  feet  apart. 

Endive. — Sow  in  the  same  manner  as  lettuce,  and 
thin  or  set  out  the  pl.ants  so  that  they  will  be  a 
foot  apart  each  way. 

Zeffifce.— Transplant  to  good  soil,  and  sow  seed 
frequently  in  a  cool  pl.ace  to  keep  up  a  succession. 

Melons. — Treat  as  directed  above  for  cucumbers. 

Onions. — Thin  to  3  or  4  inches,  and  keep  all  weeds 
from  the  bed.  Watering  with  hot  water  and 
with  gas  liquor,  as  well  as  heavy  mulching  with 
sawdust,  and  sprinkling  with  salt  and  ashes,  have 
each  been  claimed  as  a  “  sure  cure  ”  for  the  mag¬ 
got.  If  the  potato,  or  other  e.arly  sorts,  show  a 
wilting  of  their  leaves,  it  is  an  indication  that  they 
are  ready  to  pull. 

Parsnips. — As  soon  as  the  plants  are  large  enough 
to  see  the  rows,  the  soil  should  be  stirred,  and 
when  large  enough  to  handle,  weeded  and  thinned. 

Peas. — Sow  for  the  late  crop  in  deeply  worked 
soil.  Set  brush  before  the  vines  fall  over.  Save 
tlie  earliest  and  best  of  the  early  sorts  for  seed. 

Potatoes. — Hoe  and  give  a  dressing  of  plaster. 

Radishes. — Sow  at  intervals  for  succession. 

Keep  the  beds  clean,  and  cut  off  the 
flower  stalks  as  soon  as  they  show  themselves. 
Dry  or  preserve  a  supply  for  winter. 

Ruta-Baga.—Soyr  in  well  manured  ground,  the 
latter  part  of  June.  Bone  dust  is  good  for  them. 

Salsify. — Treat  the  same  as  carrots. 

Spinach. — Sow  for  succession.  The  New-Zealand 
is  best  for  summer- use. 

Squashes. — Plant  in  manured  soil,  as  last  month. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — ^Prepare  the  ground  and  set  the 
plants  according  to  the  methods  given  last  month 
on  pages  144  and  154. 


Tomatoes. — Transplant  and  pinch  in  the  rampant 
br.anches.  See  method  of  training  described  last 
month  on  page  154. 

Watering. — Do  not  water  unless  the  plants  are 
suffering,  except  it  can  be  continued  until  rain 
comes.  The  proper  use  of  the  hoe  will  help  plants 
through  a  drouth  in  a  wonderful  manner.  In 
watering  with  liqnid  manure,  have  it  weak  enough 
and  apply  frequently. 

Weeds. — These  are  blessings  if  hoed  up,  but  they 
punish  the  lazy  and  careless  by  condemning  them 
to  eat  poorly  grown  vegetables.  Hoe  if  the  ground 
is  weedy;  hoe  if  the  soil  bakes  after  a  shower,  and 
if  neither  of  these  re.asons  present  themselves — 
hoe  for  the  sake  of  the  hoeing. 


Flower  Garden  and  Fawn.— Vege¬ 
tation  in  this  as  in  all  other  departments  is  advan¬ 
ced  beyond  ordinary  seasons,  and  the  work  must  be 
pushed  accordingly.  Grass  has  grown  at  a  pro¬ 
digious  rate,  and  the  cutting  should  be  more  fre¬ 
quent,  in  order  to  secure  a  close  and  velvety  turf. 

Annuals. — Sow  the  tender  ones  and  transplant 
those  large  enough.  The  bloom  of  many  kinds 
may  be  much  prolonged  by  cutting  off  the  flowers 
as  soon  as  they  have  passed  their  prime,  and  allow¬ 
ing  no  seed  to  be  produced. 

Bulbs. — Continue  the  foliage  of  the  spring  bloom¬ 
ing  kinds  in  a  growing  state  as  long  as  possible  by 
good  cultivation,  and  when  it  withers  take  up  the 
bulbs,  dry  them  and  put  them  away  in  papers  in  a 
dry  place,  free  from  mice,  until  fall  planting. 

Carnations. — Propagate  by  layers,  as  noted  on 
page  187,  and  by  cuttings.  Keep  flowering  plants 
well  tied  up.  Sow  seeds. 

Climbers. — See  that  those  which  do  not  cling  of 
themselves,  are  properly  tied,  to  prevent  being 
thrown  down  by  winds,  but  avoid  all  stiffness  in 
training  them.  Sow  seeds  of  annual  ones.  Bec.are- 
ful  to  have  the  supports  of  all  climbers  strong 
enough  for  the  weight  of  foliage,  and  to  resist  winds. 

Dahlias. — Plant  in  rich  soil.  It  is  not  well  for 
them  to  flower  early,  as  they  should  be  kept  grow¬ 
ing  all  summer,  in  order  to  secure  a  fine  show  of 
flowers  in  fall.  Water  in  dry  weather. 

Geraniums. — Set  out  .and  keep  them  in  good  shape 
by  cutting. 

Gladiolus. — These  are  often  thrown  down  by  the 
weight  of  the  flower  cluster.  Stake  the  tall  growers. 

Grass,  whether  upon  the  lawn  or  in  edging, 
needs  frequent  elipping,  and  all  margins  neat  trim¬ 
ming.  Root  out  all  coarse  weeds. 

Ch'avel. — Hoe,  rake  and  roll  when  weeds  appear. 

Ebe  and  Rake. — Use  these  implements,  not  only 
to  kill  weeds,  but  to  loosen  the  soil,  .and  thus 
obviate  the  necessity  for  mueli  w.atering.  If  the 
soil  is  disposed  to  b.ake  on  the  surface  after  a  rain, 
loosen  it  up  with  the  rake. 

Layering. — This  may  be  done  on  shrubs  and 
herbaceous  plants  at  any  time,  when  there  are  suit¬ 
able  shoots.  The  layer  should  be  put  in  good  rich 
soil.  See  remarks  on  page  187. 

Potted  Plants. — These  need  shelter  from  the  winds 
and  burning  sun,  as  noted  on  page  186.  Pots  not 
plunged  must  have  regular  waterings,  or  the  roots 
will  get  dry  .and  the  plants  suffer. 

Phloxes. — Multiply  the  finer  herbaceous  sorts  by 
making  cuttings  of  the  stems  before  flowering. 

ifoses.— Shorten  stems  of  perpetuals  after  flower¬ 
ing  several  inches,  and  new  shoots  will  start  for 
late  bearing.  Kill  insects  as  heretofore  directed. 

Transplanting. — In  dry  weather  it  is  necessary  to 
fill  the  holes  with  water  before  setting  the  plants, 
and  to  shade  for  a  few  days,  but  uncover  at  night. 


Green  and  Hot-Houses.— Everything 
that  is  to  be  put  out  of  doors,  will  probably  bo  out 
by  this  time.  The  house  should  be  put  in  complete 
order  and  the  plants  that  are  left  inside  receive  the 
best  attention. 

Azaleas. — The  new  growth  should  be  forwarded 
by  syringing  and  very  weak  liquid  manure.  Shape 
the  plants  by  pinching,  and  shade  from  hot  sun. 


Camellias.— to  a  partial  shade.  See  p.age 
186.  Syringe  frequently.  Lookout  for  and  destroy 
mealy  bug.  Inarch  when  the  wood  hardens. 

Cidtings. — Provide  for  a  stock  of  geraniums  and 
such  things  by  making  cuttings. 

Chinese  Primroses.— Sow  seeds,  divide  roots,  and 
put  established  plants  in  a  shady  frame. 

Potting. — When  slmibs  make  a  sickly  growth,  re¬ 
move  the  plant  from  the  pot  and  wash  all  the  earth 
from  the  roots,  and  repot  with  fresh  soil.  Secure 
a  good  stock  of  sods  and  stack  them  up  to  decom¬ 
pose  for  potting  soil. 

Seedlings-. — Pot  off  any  that  are  large  enough. 

Water. — Keep  the  air  of  the  house  properly  moist 
by  using  the  syringe.  Small  pots  dry  out  quickly. 


Fruit  Gar€leii.-“Prom  present  prospects 
there  will  be  an  abundance  of  fruit  of  most  kinds, 
to  repay  the  Labor  of  the  cultivator. 

Currants.— By  removing  superfluous  growth  as 
it  starts,  much  pruning  will  be  s.aved.  Take  off 
useless  suckers.  If,  as  is  often  the  case,  green  fruit 
will  bring  more  than  ripe,  it  is  best  to  market  it 
early.  See  article  on  the  currant  worm  on  page 
187.  Keep  the  soil  around  the  bushes  well  hoed. 

Uoo.teftejTies.— These  do  better  where  they  are 
partially  shaded.  A  free  application  of  sulphur,  or 
water  as  hot  as  the  hand  can  bear,  to  which  wood 
ashes  have  been  added,  in  the  proportion  of  a  quart 
to  a  pailful,  may  be  tried,  if  mildew  appears. 

Gi-apes.—U  vines  set  this  year  show  fruit,  remove 
it,  however  reluctant  you  may  be  to  do  so.  All  the 
energies  of  the  vine  are  needed  to  form  wood  and 
roots  for  next  year.  Seedlings,  young  vines  from 
cuttings,  and  layers  are  to  be  kept  tied  up,  and  the 
growth  of  the  laterals  kept  pinched  back  to  one 
leaf.  Vines  fruiting  for  the  first  time,  ought  not 
to  be  allowed  to  overbear.  One  bunch  to  the  shoot 
is  better  than  more.  Fill  up  the  trench  over  lay¬ 
ers,  made  as  directed  last  month.  Insects  will  need 
killing,  and  use  sulphur  freely  upon  all  vines 
where  mildew  appears.  A  bellows  is  made  for  the 
purpose,  like  a  common  kitchen  bellows,  with  a 
hole  for  the  introduction  of  the  sulphur,  and  with¬ 
out  a  valve.  The  nozzle  is  of  tin,  and  quite  wide, 
and  the  end  is  curved  to  facilitate  the  application 
to  the  under  side  of  the  leaves.  By  me.ans  of  this 
implement,  and  any  one  can  contrive  to  make  a 
substitute,  a  properly  trained  vine  can  be  com¬ 
pletely  dusted  in  a  very  short  time. 

Pears. — The  shaping  of  the  tree,  as  well  as  its 
preparation  for  future  fruitfulness,  is  secured  by 
proper  summer  pinching.  Sufficient  directions 
were  given  in  January,  on  page  17.  The  slug 
usually  appears  this  month.  A  dusting  of  dry  air- 
slaked  lime  will  kill  them,  or  the  powdered  white 
hellebore  may  be  tried. 

Strawberries. — Plantations  set  this  spring  should 
be  kept  cle.an  of  weeds.  The  treatment  will  depend 
upon  whether  fruit  or  an  increase  in  the  number  of 
plants  is  most  desired.  If  the  greatest  amount 
of  fruit  be  the  object,  the  runners  should  not  be 
allowed  to  grow,  but  if  more  plants  are  required, 
give  the  runners  good  soil  to  strike  in.  If  the 
mulch  is  not  already  on,  put  on  straw,  tan,  corn 
stalks,  or  other  material,  to  keep  the  fruit  clean. 
Have  all  boxes,  crates,  etc.,  plainly  marked,  and  in 
filling  the  boxes,  do  not  put  all  the  best  berries  on 
top.  Those  who  are  near  enough  to  do  so,  should 
exhibit  at  our  Strawberry  Show. 


Cold  Grapery. — Open  the  house  early 
in  the  morning,  shut  up  early,  and  endeavor  to 
keep  the  temperature  at  about  SS'*  or  90®  at  mid¬ 
day,  allowing  the  change  from  the  night  tempera¬ 
ture  to  this  to  be  very  gradu.al.  Avoid  sudden 
changes.  While  the  vines  are  in  flower,  the  syring¬ 
ing  overhead  should  be  discontinued.  The  distribu¬ 
tion  of  the  pollen  is  aided,  and  more  thorough 
fertilization  secured  by  giving  the  bunches  a  shake 
every  morning  by  means  of  the  finger.  After  the 
berries  are  set,  give  a  good  syringing  to  remove  the 
remains  of  the  flowers.  Water  freely.  The  number 
of  bunches  to  be  left  upon  the  vine  will  depend 


173 


[June, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


upon  its  strength,  but  one  is  sufficient  upon  each 
spur.  The  end  of  the  shoot  is  stopped  by  pinch¬ 
ing  it  off  at  the  third  or  fourth  leaf  beyond  the 
bunch.  The  fruit  is  to  be  thinned  when  it  is  about 
the  size  of  peas,  removing  half  or  more  according 
to  the  variety.  Tie  up  the  branches. 

Tlie  Apiary  for  Junc.—Pr^ared  by  M. 

Qiiiiiby,  hy  request. — When  surplus  honey  is  desir¬ 
able,  the  boxes  should,  be  added  to  all  good  colo¬ 
nies  early  in  this  month.  At  this  season,  when  the 
flowers  of  the  white  clover  appear,  there  can  be 
no  harm  if  the  boxes  are  on  a  few  days  before  they 
are  really  needed.  Do  not  neglect  to  stick  some 
nice  pieces  of  clean,  white  comb  in  the  top,  as  an 
encouragement  for  the  bees  to  begin.  As  fast  as 
filled,  they  should  be  replaced  with  empty  ones. 
As  long  as  honey  is  collected  plentifully,  full  boxes 
takeu  out  may  be  set  by  the  side  of  the  hive  for 
the  bees  to  leave ;  but  it  will  not  do  when  it  begins 
to  be  scarce.  They  must  not  stand  in  the  sun. 
Most  of  the  swarms  may  also  be  expected  this 
month.  Small  apiaries  swarm  more,  in  proportion 
to  the  number  of  hives,  than  large  ones.  Many 
persons  hesitate  about  putting  on  the  boxes  before 
swarming,  fearing  that  it  will  delay,  if  not  alto¬ 
gether  prevent  it.  There  are  cases  when  it  may 
have  that  effect,  but  when  it  does,  it  is  not  very 
disastrous.  A  strong  stock  that  casts  no  swarm, 
will  store  much  more  honey  than  a  swarming 
hive.  The  honey,  put  in  market  and  sold,  will 
often  bring  sufficient  money  to  buy  two  or  three 
stocks.  I  advise  putting  on  the  boxes ;  if  they 
6wai-m,  it  is  well — there  may  be  some  honey  also ; 
if  they  do  not,  it  is  probably  better.  But  do  not 
expect  both,  to  any  great  extent.  Stocks  that  do 
not  swarm,  and  remain  weak  till  this  time,  should 
be  examiued.  They  may  be  so  from  diseased 
brood,  loss,  or  barrenness  of  queen.  If  queenless, 
supply  a  laying  queen.  If  barren,  remove,  and 
supply  another  a  few  days  afterwards.  When  dis¬ 
eased,  drive  out  to  begin  anew,  or  put  into  a  hive 
partly  filled  with  combs  of  last  year,  such  a  one 
as  wm  suggested  should  be  saved  last  fall  for  the 
new  swarms.  But  it  would  be  well  first,  to  keep 
the  bees,  at  least  forty-eight  hours  after  driving  out, 
in  an  empty  box  or  hive,  to  digest  the  honey  taken 
with  them,  before  putting  them  among  the  pure 
combs.  Bees  should  on  no  account  be  driven  out 
of  a  hive  within  less  than  eight  or  ten  days  after 
the  first  sw'arm,  or  before  the  young  queen  hatches. 
Unless  some  emergency  demands  it,  twenty  days 
should  intervene. 

After  Swarms  are  those  which  issue  with  young 
queens.  Two  or  more  arc  required  to  make  a 
colony  as  large  as  a  first  swarm.  When  they  issue 
near  together,  unite  them,  till  a  good  swarm  is 
hived.  When  two  or  more  after-swarms  are  united, 
they  are  not  always  as  quiet  as  others.  The  queen 
of  each  swarm  is  a  stranger  to  some  of  the  bees, 
and  is  imprisoned  by  their  clustering  around  her. 
In  a  short  time,  the  bees  not  having  access  to 
their  own  queen,  become  very  much  dissatisfied, 
and,  after  looking  throughout  the  new  hive,  leave 
for  some  other  new  swarm,  or  perhaps  return  to 
the  old  stock,  attracting  all  the  bees,  except  the 
few  that  are  holding  the  queens.  Five  or  six,  or  a 
dozen,  may  go  at  once,  flying  about  considerably ; 
and  a  steady  stream,  at  that  rate,  will  soon  take  out 
all  the  bees,  and  a  careless  observer  will  not  know 
when  nor  where  they  are  gone,  and  may  not  miss 
them  until  evening.  The  hive  to  which  they  are 
attracted  may  be  generally  known  by  the  bees 
stopping  about  the  entrance,  and  buzzing  a  mo¬ 
ment  before  they  enter.  When  this  state  of  things 
occurs,  and  while  there  is  yet  enough  for  a  good 
swarm  left,  the  hive  should  be  closed  with  wire 
ciotn,  if  possible,  or  something  that  will  admit 
sufficient  air,  as  a  swarm  of  bees  is  easily  smother¬ 
ed  in  hot  weather.  It  is  a  good  way  to  turn  the 
hive  on  its  side,  after  fastening  in  the  bees  ;  carry 
to  a  cool  cellar  for  a  day,  when  they  will  usually 
become  reconciled.  Should  they  have  destroyed 
their  last  queen,  it  will  be  manifested  by  uneasy 
movements,  when  another  may  be  provided.  Such 
Bwarms,  when  they  go  to  work,  are  liable  to  lose 


their  queen,  on  account  of  her  being  unable  to  fly, 
from  injuries  received  while  imprisoned  by  the 
bees.  If  the  first  combs  that  they  build  are  for 
drones,  it  proves  they  have  no  queen.  They  will 
accept  another  at  once.  When  two  large  first 
swarms  get  together,  and  you  have  the  movable 
comb  hive,  it  is  about  as  well,  and  much  the  least 
trouble,  to  hive  them  together,  and  when  the  hive 
is  nearly  full,  if  you  want  two  colonies  instead  of 
one,  and  the  extra  surplus  honey,  you  may  divide. 
Secure  straight  combs,  by  elevating  one  end  of  the 
hive  at  least  30  degrees.  Have  it  level  the  other 
way,  and  make  the  other  edge  of  the  guide  bar,  at 
the  top,  smooth. 


General  Premium  List. 

LAST  CALL. 

This  paper  completes  half  of  Volume  24j  and  we  re¬ 
publish,  for  the  last  time,  the  General  Premiums  offered 
for  obtaining  subscribers  this  year.  A  large  number,  in 
different  parts  of  the  country,  have  already  secured  one, 
often  more  than  one,  of  the  premiums.  We  invite  the 
immediate  filling  up  of  partly  completed  lists,  and  the 
calling  for  the  premiums,  that  we  may  as  far  as  possible 
finish  the  distribution  of  the  articles  by  July  1st. 


NOTE  the  good  kind  and  desirableness  of  the  pre¬ 
mium  articles  offered  ;  tliey  will  each  repay  the  effort 
required  to  get  them.  A  great  number  of  persons  can 
readily  make  up  a  new  premium  club  this  month.  Every 
now  and  then  some  one  sends  in  a  large  club,  stating 
that  it  was  gathered  in  a  few  hours  by  calling  upon  ac¬ 
quaintances,  showing  a  copy  of  the  paper,  and  explaining 


its  character  and  value. 
TableofPremiams  and  Terms, 

For  Volume  24.  |g. 

Open  to  all— No  Competition. 

Names  of  Premium  Articles.  J _ 

1— Good  Books—*  See  terms  belotc . 

a— Case  of  Drawing  Instruments.., .  $8  00 

3—  Best  Family  Clothes-Vf  ringer .  $10  00 

4 —  Doty’s  Washing  Machine . $12  00 

.'5— Sewing  Machine,  (Wheeler  &  Wilson).. $55  00 

6—  Four  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $67  00 

7—  Five  Octave  Melodeon  (best) . $112  00 

8—  Brown’s  Baby  Tender . $30  00 

9—  Brown’s  Baby  Tender . $42  00 

10—  Woodruff’s  Mercurial  Barometer. .(2).. $10  00 

11—  Woodruff’s  Mercurial  Barometer.. (1).. $15  00 

1/J— The  Aquarius . $12  00 

13— Ladies’ Rosewood  Writing  Desk . $12  00 

14:— Gentleman’s  do  do  do . . — $14  00 

l.’j— Any  back  Volume  Agriculturist,  )  IS '2  $1  50 
IG— Any  Two  do  do  do  g  s  P  00 

17—  Any  Three  do  do  do  >  xo  $4  50 

18—  Any  Four  do  do  do  I  §  s  $6  00 

19—  Any  Five  do  do  do  J  a,lS  $7  50 


ns® 

3 

§  s 

o  p 
a-rt 


14 

17 

19 

70 


140 

37 

52 

17 
21 

18 
18 
21 


11 

13 


*3 

rti  a> 


60 

70 

80 

360 

400 

600 

180 

236 

70 

90 

80 

80 

90 

20 

25 

30 

40 

50 


charge  is  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  the 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Books,  also  Premiums 
2,  15,  16,  17,  18  and  19,  are  DELivEiiED  to  any  part 
of  the  United  States  and  Territories,  free  of  all  charges. 
The  other  articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  af¬ 
ter  leaving  the  manufactory  of  each.  Every  article 
offered  is  new  and  of  the  very  best  manufacture. 


See  full  description  of  the  Premiums,  on  pages  2 
and  3  of  January  Agriculturist. 

The  Books  offered  are  worth  far  more  than  their 
mere  money  value.  (See  terms  below.) 


The  Case  of  Drawing  Instruments  is  a  neat 
and  valuable  affair  that  will  be  found  very  convenient  in 
many  ways,  especially  in  cultivating  in  children  a  habit 
of  sketching  and  making  plans. 

The  Clothcs-Wringer,  ‘Washing-Machine, 
and  Sewing-Machine  should  be  in  every  family 
where  they  are  not  already. 

The  Melodeons  offered  are  the  best,  and  are  orna¬ 
mental  as  well  as  desirable  in  a  majority  of  families. 

The  Bahy-Tcndcr  is  of  course  wanted  wherever 
there  is  a  baby. 

A  good  Barometer  is  as  highly  useful  to  everv 
farmer  as  to  Sea  Captains. 

The  Aquarius  is  'good  in  every  Garden,  and  to 
wash  Windows,  Carriages,  etc.,  and  as  an  ever  ready 
hand-tre  engine. 

The  'Writing  Desks  keep  the  stationery  and  wri¬ 
ting  materials  always  togcllier,  and  those  offered  are  or¬ 
namental  also. 

The  Complete  Volumes  of  the  Agriculturist, 
bound  or  unbound,  are  the  best  and  most  useful  works  on 
matters  pertaining  to  the  Farm,  Garden,  and  Household. 

<1®,  We  wish  every  one  of  our  readers  could  get 
each  of  the  above  articles.  Many  can  get  one  with  only  the 
cost  of  a  little  time.  TBY  IT  this  month.  The 
readers  thus  secured  will  in  the  end  thank  those  who 

persuade  them  to  subscribe. - It  is  hardly  possible  for 

any  one  to  fail  to  receive  Hints,  Suggestions,  and  practi¬ 


cal  directions  worth  more  than  a  York  Shilling  a  month, 
while  the  engravings  alone  are  worth  this  amount. 

When  any  list  is  completed,  notify  us  which  of  the  j 

articles  is  desired,  and  it  will  be  promptly  forwarded.  I 

To  avoid  errors  and  save  immense  labor  in  looking  over  j 

our  books,  it  is  absolutely  essential  that  every  name  design¬ 
ed  for  a  premium  list  be  so  marked  when  sent  in. 

Old  and  new  subscribers  will  count  in  premium  lists,  , 
but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
such,  that  the  premiums  are  in  part  offered.  Premium 
clubs  need  not  alt  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  course  ' 

only  one  premium  will  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber.  1 

*  Pi’cmiiini  1.— (?ood  Books.— Nay  person  sending  1 
25  or  more  subscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  list  [ 
on  page  199,  to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  each  subscriber 
sent  at  |l:or  to  the  amount  of  60  cents  for  each  name  at  $1  50. 

The  Books  will  be  sent  by  mail  or  express,  prepaid  by  us.— 
This  is  a  good  opportunity  for  the  farmers  of  a  neighbor¬ 
hood  to  unite  their  efforts  and  get  up  an  Agricultural  Ll- 
br.ary  for  general  use.  Many  Farmers’  Clubs  have  done  so. 

■*  «  W*!*’ - -  «• 

Fourth  Annual  Strawberry  Show. 

The  success  of  former  Exhibitions  has  induced  the  i 
Proprietor  of  the  Agriculturist  to  hold  another  Show  of  j 
Strawberries  the  coming  season,  under  the  auspices  | 
and  direction  of  the  Fruit-Grow'ers’  Meeting.  At  a  re-  ! 
cent  meeting,  a  Committee,  consisting  of  R,  G,  Par¬ 
dee,  Wm.  S,  Carpenter,  C.  Taber,  T.  Cavanagli,  and  j 
G.  W.  Huntsman,  was  appointed,  to  make  arrange¬ 
ments  for  the  Exhibition.  The  Committee,  in  order  to  ac-  ! 
commodate  early  and  late  varieties,  decided  to  hold  Ex-  | 
hibitions  on  June  8th,  and  on  June  15th,  the  two  days  j 

forming  one  Exhibition.  The  fruit  must  all  be  on  the  i 

tables  by  one  o’clock  on  the  days  above  mentioned.  The 
Secretary  of  the  Fruit-Growers’  Meeting  will  be  in  at-  1 
tendance  to  take  charge  of  the  fruit.  At  one  o’clock  the  I 

doors  will  be  closed  to  allow  the  Judges  to  make  their  t 

examination,  after  which  they  will  be  thrown  open  to  the  . 

public.  The  Judges  will  report  after  the  second  Exhibi-  [ 
tion,  and  w'ill  make  the  awards  to  the  best  fruit  shown  on  ' 

both  occasions.  The  following  gentlemen  have  been  ] 

selected  as  Judges :  S.  B.  Parsons,  Chas.  Downing, 

B.  C.  Townsend,  S.  B.  Conover,  J.  W.  Degraw.  j 

SCHEDULE  OF  PRIZES. 

1. — Best  Strawberry,  new  or  old,  size,  beauty  and  ex-  i 

cellence  considered . $5 

2. — Best  12  approved  varieties — (1  pint  each) .  5 

3.  — Second  do .  do .  3 

4.  — Largest  and  best  collection  of  Strawberries .  5 

5.  — Best  show  of  Strawberries  in  bearing  (on  plants).  5 

6. — Best  maraet  variety— (two  quarts) .  3 

7.  — Heaviest  three  berries  of  one  variety .  8 


8. — Best  pint  White  Strawberries .  I 

9.  — Best  pint  Alpines .  1 

10.  — Best  new  seedling,  fruited  at  least  two  years,  but 

never  offered  for  sale  or  exhibition,  a  be.aring  plant 
to  be  shown .  5 

11.  — Best  collection  of  the  newer  imported  varieties. .'  2 

12.  — Best  show  of  Strawberries  grown  on  a  city  or 

village  lot  (25x100  feet) . -.  2 

13.  — For  the  best  pint  of  Agriculturist,  Russell’s  Pro¬ 

lific,  Brooklyn  Scai'let,  Monitor,  Col.  Ellsworth, 
Triomphe  de  Gand,  Wilson,  Hovey,  Buffalo, 


Burr’s  New  Pine,  or  Hooker,  $1  each . 11 

C.  TABER,  Sec.  of  Com. 


New-A^orlc  Live  Stock  Marlcefs.— 

Beef  Cattle  have  come  in  pretty  uniformly  during  the 
past  few  weeks,  the  average  weekly  receipts  being  4,310 
head— an  increase  of  about  250  over  the  average  for  the 
previous  month.  The  impression  that  drovers  during 
the  past  winter  have  sought  to  make  universal,  namely, 
that  there  were’no  cattle  in  the  West  for  the  spring  trade, 
and  that  prices  of  beef  must  be  enormously  high,  has 
failed  to  be  confirmed.  The  supply  of  bullocks  is  ampie, 
and  the  quality  has  run  better  thus  far  this  spring  than 
during  the  winter,  and  present  appe.arances  indicate  a 
stiil  heavier  decline  in  prices.  Cattle  which  were  re¬ 
ported  last  month  at  22(S)23c.  per  ft,  dressed  weight,  now 
sell  at  18®I9c. ;  good  sell  at  16(3)17c. ;  fair  at,15@16o.. 
and  common  at  13(314c. 

Mtlcli  Cows  have  averaged  108  during  the  last  four 
weeks.  The  light  demand  has  prevented  owners  bringing 
In  as  freely  as  last  month.  Rates  range  at  $40(®$76  for 
poor  to  good  milkers. 

Veal  Calves.— The  receipts  are  much  heavier  than 
reported  last  month,  averaging  2,549  weekly.  Good  veals 
sell  at  9|®llc.  per  lb.,  live  weight. 

Sliecp  have  come  In  pretty  freely,  the  supply  aver¬ 
aging  8,448  weekly.  The  numbers  of  sheared  sheep 
equalled  the  wooled.  Prices  of  good  sheep  range  at  lOM 
(®ll}ic.per  lb.  for  unshorn,  and  9®10c.  per  ft.  for  shorn. 

liive  Hogs  have  'arrived'  in  comparatively  large 
supplies,  the  weekly  average  being  6,822,  compared  with 
3,764,  the  average  last  month.  Sales  for  good  light  hogs 
range  at  10(®I0Xc,  per  lb.,  live  Weight. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


173 


Sontnining  a  gnat  variety  of  Items,  msluding  many 
food  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


Fire  l>ollar  Clulis. — This  is  a  convenient 
season  to  make  up  Clubs  of  four  subscribers  which  are 
sent  for  $5.— A  present  of  Strawberry  plants  is  offered 
elsewhere  in  this  paper.  See  page  194. 

TIic  Fast  oilfer  of  Fremiiims,  for  this 
year,  is  printed  on  page  172.  It  is  worth  looking  into. 

Oar  Strawberry  Flants.— All  queries 
in  regard  to  these,  are  answered  in  two  items  elsewhere. 
Some  premium  plants  are  offered.  See  page  194. 

Sbeep  Show  at  Canandaigua,  N.  1^. 

The  “  N.  Y.  State  Sheep  Breeders’  Association”  held  its 
first  exhibition,  on  the  grounds  of  the  Ontario  Agricultural 
Society,  on  the  9th,  10th  and  11th  of  May.  These  grounds 
contain  an  amphitheatre  capable  of  seating  12,000  persons, 
and  were  well  adapted  to  the  purpose  for  which  they 
were  used.  The  show  of  sheep  was  very  large  and  fine, 
as  regards  Merinos  ;  mutton  sheep,  however,  were  not 
well  represented.  There  were  near  600  sheep  of  all 
kinds,  the  most  valuable  collection  of  sheep  ever  brought 
together  in  this  country,  or,  probably,  in  any  other.  The 
attendance  was  not  large,  chiefly  consisting  of  farmers, 
and  those  much  interested  in  sheep  raising.  We  have  no 
room  now  for  the  list  of  premiums.  The  shearing  in 
competition  for  Mr.  Moore’s  prizes  excited  much  interest. 
There  were  26  sheep  sheared.  The  lightest  fleece  was 
one  of  7  lbs.,  K  oz.,  taken  from  a  33-lb.  yearling  ewe 
lamb,  11  months,  1  day  old.  The  heaviest  was  from  221- 
lb.,  2-year  old  buck,  the  fleece  being  11  months,  26  days 
old,  and  weighing  29  lbs.,  21  oz.  One  135-lb  ,  2-year  old 
buck  sheared  24  lbs.,  and  one  118K-lb.,  3-year  old  buck 
sheared  22  lbs.  The  heaviest  ewe’s  fleece  was  14  lbs.,  8 
oz.,  from  a  77-lb.  3-year  old  ewe.  The  lightest  bucks 
fleece  10  lbs.,  13  oz.,  from  a  61  lb.,  2-year  old  buck.  The 
weight  of  fleeces  after  cleansing  will  be  given  when 
reported. 

Sap  Spoats.— C.  Sweet,  Saratoga  Co.,  N.  Y., 
used,  last  year,  pieces  of  hoop-iron,  bent  into  a  groove 
form,  instead  of  tubular  spiles,  and  recommends  them 
to  the  sugar-boilers  of  the  '' Agriculturist  family.” 

Folyacco. — (Omitted  under  “Work  for  the 
Month.”)— Have  the  ground  thoroughly  enriched  and  mel¬ 
low  ;  set  out  plants  from  the  1st  to  the  20th  of  the  month. 
Lift  the  most  forward  plants,  after  thoroughly  watering 
the  seed-bed.  Move  to  the  field  in  baskets,  keeping  the 
earth  as  much  as  possible  on  the  roots.  Set  rather  low 
but  do  not  cover  the  plant  with  much,  if  anymore  soil, 
than  it  had  originally,  putting  the  plants  2K  feet  apart 
in  rows  3  feet  apart.  Tobacco  plants  may  be  transplanted 
as  soon  as  they  are.  large  enough,  say,  when  the  leaves 
are  3  inches  long ;  and  the  planting  may  be  continued 
until  the  10th  of  July.  Select  if  possible  a  rainy  day  after 
the  ground  is  well  soaked.  Should  the  sun  come  out  hot, 
cover  the  plants  with  a  handful  of  fresh  cut  grass,  and 
remove  it  .toward  night. 

Adcaowledg'ement.— We  have  received 
and  handed  to  the  U.  S.  Christian  Commission  from 
Jas.  Rice,  Fort  Ann,  N.  Y.,  $27 ;  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Feath¬ 
ers,  Scio,  $10 ;  A  Friend,  do.,  50c.  ;  Sarah  Carmalo, 
Susquehanna  Co.,  Pa.,  $5.45 ;  Mrs.  Miles  Joy,  Ridgeway, 
do.,  $3  ;  H.  C.  Sigler,  Oceola,  Iowa,  $16.06  ;  A.  R.  Durlin, 
Westminster,  Md.,  $3.50;  District  No.  2,  Adams,  Wis., 
$4.55 ;  S.  Harrison,  Camp  Creek,  N.  Y.,  $1.75  ;  J.  Harri¬ 
son,  do.,  50c. - For  the  U.  S.  Sanitary  Commission  : 

From  John  Gilman,  Rosemount,  Minn.,  $4  ;  A  Lady  in 
Yorkville,  N.  Y.,  $4  ;  J.  L.  Russell,  Erie,  Pa'.,  $9 ;  Thos. 
A.  Haggerty,  Warren  Co.,  N.  J.,  $2.80 ;  E.  W.  Slaters, 
Orville,  Cal.,  50c. ,  H.  P.  Byrara,  Sag  Harbor,  $3.12. 

A.  Word  to  Fiircliasers  of*  Seeds  ; 
Nursery  Stock,  etc.— A  number  of  complaints  of 
failures  of  different  dealers  to  respond  to  orders,  have 
been  sent  to  this  office.  These  have  been  forwarded  to 
the  dealers,  and  the  trouble  doubtless  rectified  as  far  as  it 
can  be.  It  is  not  altogether  fair,  because  no  retuiii  is  re¬ 
ceived  from  an  order,  enclosing  money,  to  set  the  dealer 
down  at  once  as  a  humbug  and  a  swindler.  It  should  be 
considered,  that  there  has  been  an  unprecedented  de¬ 
mand  this  spring  for  all  kinds  of  horticultural  and  agri¬ 
cultural  stock- so  great  that  there  has  been  unavoidable 
delay  in  filling  orders.  Moreover,  in  any  large  establish¬ 
ment,  wliere  the  business  is  done  by  correspondence, 
many_  letters  will  be  received,  to  which  there  is  no  pos¬ 


sible  clue.  We  get  letters  without  signature,  as  well  as 
those  from  which  the  Post  Office  or  State  has  been  omit¬ 
ted.  One  of  the  difficulties  arises  from  the  growing 
custom  of  giving  names  to  estates,  and  the  use  of  these 
in  correspondence,  instead  of  the  proper  P.  O.  address. 
One  may  call  his  place  Clovernook,  Hardscrabble,  or  any 
other  fancy  or  eccentric  name,  and  have  it  well  known 
to  a  whole  neighborhood,  while  people  a  thousand  miles 
away  may  be  quite  ignorant  of  the  location,  to  which  also 
the  P.  0.  Directory  will  give  no  clue.  We  believe,  that 
the  seedsmen,  nurserymen,  and  others  who  advertise 
with  us,  do  the  right  thing,  and  when  we  have  good  evi¬ 
dence  that  they  will  not,  their  advertisements  will  not  be 
admitted.  Before  charging  them  with  dishonesty,  it  is 
well  to  recollect,  that  there  is  a  chance  for  mistakes  on 
both  sides,  and  it  is  only  fair  to  give  them  an  opportunity 
to  rectify  and  explain. 

A  Splendid  Boole.— The  new  edition  of 

“Downing's  Landscape  Gardening  and  Rural  Architec¬ 
ture,"  which  has  just  been  issued,  is  one  of  the  most 
attractive  books  of  the  season,  and  will  be  a  highly  orna¬ 
mental  as  well  as  useful  book  on  every  table  where  it 
finds  a  place.  It  is  on  extra  paper,  is  superbly  bound,, 
and  contains  over  one  hundred  steel,  lithograph  and  wood 
engravings,  many  of  them  full  page.  It  is  large  octavo, 
contains  576  pages  besides  the  tinted  sheets  of  engravings. 
Price  $6.50.  Sent  by  mail  at  the  same  price. 

Time  to  Trim  Apple  Trees.— S.  A. 
Morrison  and  others.  If  the  limbs  are  small,  they  may 
be  removed  at  any  time,  but  large  wounds  heal  best  in 
July.  The  place  may  be  covered  with  grafting  wax 
melted  and  put  on  with  a  brush,  or  grafting  clay.  There 
is  no  better  wash  for  the  trunks  than  soft  soap,  thinned 
with  water  to  work  with  a  brush.  Lime  is  objectionable. 

Tlie  First  Strawberries. — The  earliest 
fruit  shown  at  this  office  was  a  pot  of  the  “  Agriculturist” 
from  Messrs.  L.  Pullen  &  Son,  Hightstown,  N.  J.  The 
plant  was  a  runner  of  last  fall,  potted  and  grown  in  the 
green-house,  and  though  so  young  a  plant  it  made  a 
goodly  show  of  fruit  on  May  15th. 

Birds  and  Strawberries. — Several  have 
complained  that  though  their  straw'berry  beds  bear  good 
crops,  the  birds  get  all  the  fruit.  'Where  birds  are  so 
numerous  as  to  be  very  troublesome,  we  know  of  no 
other  way  then  to  cover  the  bed  with  a  net.  One  sub¬ 
scriber  asks,  if  a  stuffed  cat  skin  would  not  scare  the 
birds  away.  A  similar  proposition  was  made  at  the 
Farmers’  Club  a  short  time  ago,  and  it  was  suggested  that 
the  skin  should  contain  a  live  cat,  which  would  stuff  it¬ 
self  with  birds.  If  any  one  has  a  ready  means  of  keep¬ 
ing  the  biids  away,  they  should  communicate  it. 

Protection  ag^ainst  Striped  Bags. 

—Dr.  J.  D.  Newbro,  Ingham  Co.,  Mich.,  uses  tarred 
roofing  paper  to  make  boxes  or  frames  to  keep  the  strip¬ 
ed  bug  from  cucumber,  squash,  and  similar  vines.  The 
frames  are  made  slightly  tapering,  so  as  to  pack  together 
when  not  in  use.  They  are  made  10  or  12  inches  in  dia¬ 
meter,  and  12  or  15  inches  high.  They  are  prevented 
from  blowing  over  by  means  of  three  stakes  driven  in¬ 
side,  and  the  paper  tacked  to  the  stakes.  The  doctor 
thinks  that  the  odor  of  the  tar,  with  which  the  paper  is 
covered,  helps  repel  the  insects. 

The  Striped  Bug)  ag-ain.- A.  Quinby, 
Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y.,  has  had  no  trouble  with  them 
for  the  last  ten  years.  He  dusts  the  plants  with  dry 
earth,  while  the  dew  is  on  them,  and  if  the  plants  are 
dry,  he  wets  them  and  applies  the  dust.  He  says  that 
the  bugs  w  ill  not  feed  on  leaves,  that  are  covered  with 
grit.  E.  Humphrey  states,  that  he  has  grown  cucumbers 
for  several  years  upon  sod  ground  manured  with  hen 
manure,  and  has  never  seen  a  oug  on  the  vines. 

Plants  Named. — As  the  season  of  flowers 
is  at  hand,  we  get  specimens  of  wild  flowers  for  names. 
If  the  specimens  are  sent  in  good  condition,  we  are  very 
willing  to  name  them,  but  we  have  no  time  to  give  to 
making  out  badly  dried  specimens,  or  those  which  are 
put  in  a  letter  in  a  green  state,  and  “  all  of  a  heap.” 
We  should  be  glad  if  those.who  take  interest  enough  in 
flowers  to  wish  to  know  what  they  are,  could  be  induced 
to  study  botany  and  look  them  out  themselves.  At  all 
events,  we  ask  our  friends  to  either  press  the  specimens 
before  sending,  which  may  be  done  in  some  books  of  little 
value,  or  between  folds  of  soft  paper  with  a  weight  upon 
it,  or  send  them  fresh  in  some  kind  of  box  that  will  not 
get  crushed  in  the  mail.  Mr.  R.  Allen,  York  Co.,  Me. : 
Coptis  trifolia,  very  nicely  dried  specimens.  This  is  call¬ 
ed  Gold-Thread,  on  account  of  the  bright  yellow  color  of 
its  roots,  01-  rather  underground  stems.  It  is  a  very  pure 
bitter  and  is  used  in  medicine  and  domestic  practice... 
J.  H.  Parsons.  Some  kind  of  Smilax,  which  cannot  be 


told  without  the  leaves... E.  G.  Topping,  Whiteside  Co., 
Ill.  Probably  White  Cedar,  but  specimens  too  small. ..J. 
C.  Martindale,  Phila.  Co.,  Pa.  The  grass  is  Crypsis 
schcenoides,  the  Rush-like  Crypsis,  a  European  species 
which  has  become  naturalized  in  some  parts  of  Peno. 
The  other  is  a  species  of  Muscari,  or  Grape-Hyacinfll, 
but  too  old  to  say  which  one...R.  R,  Alleghany.  The 
Dutchman’s  breeches,  Dicentra  cucullaria... 'EiWa.s  Jones. 
Stellaria  media,  the  common  Chickweed.  It  will  flower 
whenever  not  actually  frozen.  It  is  most  troublesome  in 
wet  soils,  and  drainage  is  the  best  remedy.. .Emily  C. 
Day.  Hepatica  triloba,  or  Liver-leaf.  The  young  leaf 
not  recognized. ..  .J.  M.  Shaw.  Bastard  Pennyroyal, 
sometimes  called  Blue-curls,  Trichostema  dichotomum... 
J.  E.  Fuller.  DiUzxiy ,  Cunila  Mariana,  It  may  be  liked 
by  some  as  a  substitute  for  tea,  but  it  smells  too  much 
like  medicine  to  suit  us. 

Tlie  Borer.— F.  D.  Loy,  Lyon  Co.,  Kansas. 
The  only  sure  remedy  for  the  apple  tree  borer,  is  purely 
mechanical.  Probe  the  holes  with  a  wire  or  whalebone, 
and  crush  the  maggot ;  then  wrap  the  lower  part  of 
the  trunk  for  a  foot  or  more  with  tarred  paper,  first  re¬ 
moving  the  earth,  so  that  the  lower  edge  of  the  paper 
will  be  near  the  roots,  and  draw  the  earth  back  again. 


Anotlier  Borer  Remedy.— A  subscriber 
finds,  that  an  occasional  application  of  urine  around  the 
trunks  of  peach  trees,  is  offensive  to  the  borer,  and  con¬ 
ducive  to  the  health  of  the  tree. 

Again  and  Again  'we  are  obliged  in  self- 
defence  to  repeat  that  we  know  nothing  about  and  wish 
to  know  nothing  about  any  quack  doctors  in  New  York 
or  any  other  city.  We  have  repeated  so  often  the  state¬ 
ment  that  no  one  who  advertises  his  cures  is,  in  our  opin¬ 
ion,  worthy  of  confidence,  that  it  ought  by  this  time  to  be 
generally  understood  by  our  readers.  Notwithstanding 
the  frequent  expression  of  this  opinion  we  are  still  very 
often  appealed  to  by  parties  who  wish  to  know  if  such  or 
such  an  one  is  not  an  exception  to  this  rule.  These 
questions  are  generally  asked  about  persons  of  w’hom  we 
have  never  before  heard,  and  the  supposition  is  that  they 
advertise  only  in  the  country  papers.  Sometimes  these 
inquirers  say,  that  they  saw  the  advertisement  of  the  so- 
called  doctor  in  some  particular  paper,  and  think  that  it 
would  not  be  admitted  there  if  the  advertiser  was  a  quack. 
The  fact  is  that  tfle  general,  as  well  as  the  religious  and, 
agricultural  papers  (except  our  own),  exercise  but  very 
little  censorship  over  what  appears  in  their  advertising 
columns,  and  the  most  outrageous  and  obscene  things  ap¬ 
pear  under  the  head  of  “  medical  advertisements”  in  the 
best  of  them.  As  a  general  rule,  the  longer  a  man’s  ad¬ 
vertisement,  the  worse  quack  he  is.  Physicians  of  proper 
standing  if  they  advertise  at  all,  at  most  state  their  ad¬ 
dress  and  the  fact  that  they  give  their  attention  to  par¬ 
ticular  diseases.  Beware  of  the  man  who  does  more  than 
this.  We  hope  that  our  friends  will  not  put  themselves 
to  the  trouble  of  making  inquires  about  advertising 
“  doctors,”  for  the  only  answer  we  can  make  is:  “We 
know  nothing  of  the  persons.” 

■  Killing  Flecampane.— “F.  F.”  says, 

that  tlie  roots  will  be  destroyed  by  fall -plowing  the  land. 

Strawberry  Freserves— Note.— Since 
the  page  (191)  containing  “Mrs.  F’s  way  of  preserving 
strawberries,”  went  to  press,  Mr.  F.  informs  us  that  the 
bottles  containing  the  selected  fruit,  are  to  be  kept  in  hot 
water  until  the  fruit  is  thoroughly  heated  through,  so  as  to 
expel  the  air  completely,  before  the  flavoring  syrup  from 
the  other  berries  is  added. 

New  Kerosene  Burner. — The  new  kero-  ^ 
sene  burner  without  chimney,  with  which  a  challenge  is 
made  in  our  advertising  columns,  combines  some  ad¬ 
vantages  we  have  never  before  seen  so  fully  attained. 
The  light  is  clear,  free  from  smoke,  and  although  not 
equal  to  a  chimney  burner,  will  answer  well  for  or¬ 
dinary  use.  A  great  point  gained  is,  it  is  not  easily  blown 
out ;  it  may  be  carried  up  and  down  stairs  rapidly  with¬ 
out  being  extinguished. 

Iviu’s  Hair  Crimpers— Several  inquir¬ 
ers.  Ladies  who  have  used  these,  report  that  they  like 
them  much.  They  are  in  the  form  of  a  hair  pin,  are 
easily  applied,  require  no  heat,  and  therefore  do  not  in¬ 
jure  the  hair  as  some  other  appliances  used  to  crimp  the 
hair,  and  give  it  the  wavy  appearance  admired  by  some, 

A  Waspish  Item. — A  correspondent  asks,' 
why  wasps  cannot  sting  a  person  while  he  continues  to 
hold  his  breath.  Let  the  inquirer  when  he  finds  a  Yellow- 
jacket’s  nest,  hold  his  breath  good  and  tight,  and  break  up 
the  nest,  and  if  he  does  not  get  sj,ung,  we  shall  conclude 
it  was— because  he  held  his  breath. 


AMERICAN  AGRIOTJLTURIST. 


[June, 


174 


ftSestatioaa  o4’  Cows.  —  Two  iieighbors 
)iave  gone  to  law  about  the  damage  arising  from  a  bull 
running  at  large,  contrary  to  tlie  laws  of  the  Slate  of 
Iowa.  Tlie  animal  ran  witli  four  cows  of  the  plaintiff. 
One  of  them  calved  vvilliin  40  weeks,  the  others  were  ex¬ 
pected  to,  at  furthest,  within  43  weeks.  To  decide  the 
length  of  time  a  cow  may  go  witn  calf,  is  of  interest  to 
all  parlies  concerned.  The  period  of  gestation  varies, 
more  or  less,  in  all  animals.  The  average  period  in  the 
cow  is  considered  40  weeks.  Tlie  late  Eari  Spencer 
kept  a  record  of  764  cows ;  they  averaged  between  284 
and  285  days.  Blane  says  he  kept  an  account  of  160 
cases,  wliicii  varied  from  241  to  308  days.  'I'essier  says 
he  found  it  to  vary  from  240  to  331  days,  in  570  cases. 
Bergen  considers  the  average  period  280  days.  Youatt 
makes  tlie  average  270  ;  (tliis  is  probably  an  error).  Man- 
vie  records  a  case  of  a  cow  going  16  months;  tlie  calf 
died.  There  is  a  case  recorded  in  1831,  in  the  Veterinary 
School  of  Utrecht,  of  a  cow  carrying  her  calf  15  months, 
less  2  days ;  tlie  calf  lived.  ■  Tlie  sliortest  period  of 
gestation  that  we  find  recorded,  wliere  tlie  calf  lived, 
was  220  days.  Tlie  autliorities  cited  are  reliable. 

asitl  are  scarcely 

known  in  well  ventilated  stables,  where  cleanliness  and 
care  are  exercised  in  managing  liorses’  feet.  J.  B. 
Gheeseman  sends  his  method  of  treatment,  wliich  is  as 
follows:  “  Cleanse  the  heels  with  soap  suds,  and,  when 
dry,  apply  hot  tallow  with  a  swab.  One  application  is 
sufficient.  Fish  brine,  or  a  coaling  of  common  white 
lead  paint,  are  equally  efficacious.”  We  approve  of  your 
application  of  warm  water  and  soap,  and  rubbing  the 
parts  dry,  after  which  the  white  oxide  of  zinc  ointment, 
or  a  little  glycerine,  will  be  found  excellent  applications 
for  these  diseases.  They  can  be  obtained  of  any  good 
apothecary,  are  easily  applied,  and  free  from  danger ; 
which  is  not  the  case  with  the  remedies  you  mention. 

Hjicc  OM.  Hiwgjsi. — “K.  J.  D,”  Mercer  Co.,  O. 
— The  Swine  Louse  (Hainatopinus  Suis)  is  readily  de¬ 
stroyed  by  a  strong  decoction  of  quassia  wood  ;  tobacco 
water  is  also  used,  but  requires  especial  caution  in  its 
application.  A  little  benzine,  dissolved  in  alcoliol,  ap¬ 
plied  with  a  shaving  brush,  or  piece  of  sponge,  is  said  to 
be  a  certain  cure,  but,  like  tobacco  water,  requires  care 
in  its  use.  The  pen  should  be  kept  clean,  occasionally 
whitewashed,  and  tlie  bedding  changed  frequently. 

’SVisstcriiis'  Mog-s  ou  H'wrnips.— S.  M. 

d  liurston,  Dacota  Co.,  Wis.,  writes  :  “I  have  wintered 
niy  hogs  on  raw  rula-bagas  for  two  winters,  and  think 
them  better  than  potatoes.”  Sow  ruta-bagas  on  good 
deep  soil  in  June,  tlie  earlier  the  better.. 

'I'lie  Siseep  §4iesaifistg>>.  —  There  are  a 
number  of  shearine  festivals  appointed  in  various  parts 
of  tlie  country.  Tliey  are  of  local  interest,  and  we  hope 
will  be  well  managed  and  well  attended.  In  rapid  and 
close  shearing,  humane  care  for  the  comfort  of  the 
sheep,  rather,  we  might  say,  care  not  to  torture  the  poor 
animals,  is  not  given  sufficient  weight  in  deciding  the 
merit  of  the  shearers.  Should  occurrences  of  particular 
interest  transpire,  we  hope  to  receive  reports. 

Meat  ISoHC-s— E>oia.’t  IBnru  'a'hem.— 

Make  soup  from  them,  then  sledge  them  up  fine,  and  feed 
them  to  the  hens,  or  hogs,  saving  the  manure  of  these 
animals.  Or  throw  them  broken  fine  into  a  heap  with 
horse  manure,  pei  liaps  making  a  regular  compost,  after¬ 
wards  of  the  manure.  Thus  you  save,  and  utilize  on  the 
farm  or  garden  all  the  nitrogen  (as  ammonia).  When 
they  are  burnt,  even  if  the  ashes  be  saved,  all  this  is  lost. 

j!$olittioi&  of  ISoueai  l>y  Aei«l. — “Verd¬ 
ant  Farmer”  asks  how  to  dissolve  in  oil  of  vitriol.  It  is 
rattier  a  difficult  thing  to  dissolve  bones  well.  It  is  best 
not  to  do  it  in  a  hurry.  Sledge  up  (down  ?)  the  bones  as 
smalt  as  you  can  conveniently,  put  them  into  a  half¬ 
hogshead  tub  (made  of  an  oil  cask),  filling  it  half  full  ; 
wet  them  with  water,  so  as  to  moisten  the  whole  mass, 
and  leave  it  a  day  or  twm,  stirring  to  make  all  moist. 
Then  take  of  oil  of  vitriol,  about  iialf  the  weight  of  the 
bones,  dilute  It  by  pouring  it  carefully  into  an  equal 
quantity  of  water,  or  more— (it  will  become  very  hot,  and 
may  spatter),  and  pour  this  upon  the  bones.  Stir  tlior- 
oughly  and  often — daily,  for  a  week,  mashing  and  break¬ 
ing  the  lumps.  Add  more  water,  if  necessary,  to  be  able 
to  stir  tlie  mass,  and  finally  dry  off  by  addition  of  bone 
dust,  saw  dust,  coal  ashes,  dry  leaclied  ashes,  plaster,  or 
muck.  If  big  pieces  of  undecomposed  bone  bo  found, 
rake  them  out.  This  drying  operation  is  best  done 
on  an  eartli  floor. 

Wliy  «lo  Ciitlle  iiSsiaw  Oid  Bones  ?— 
“II.  H.,”  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y.,  asks;  “What  is  the 
cause  of  cattle  wanting  to  be  cliewing  pieces  of  old 
bones,  as  is  the  case  witli  mine?  I  give  them  salt,  but 


tliey  refuse  it,  and  if  they  can  find  an  old  bone  they  would 
chew  it  all  day  if  I  would  let  them.  Can  you  tell  the 
cause?”  You  have  sold  corn,  hay,  milk,  veal,  young 
cattle,  cows,  etc.,  off  your  place,  until  the  bone-material 
phosphate  of  lime  is  so  nearly  exhausted  that  tlie  animals 
have  got  tlie  “  bone  disease.”  Feed  them  a  little  bone 
meal  daily,  for  some  time,  and  sow  bone  dust  on  your  pas¬ 
tures,  and  mowing  land.  It  will  greatly  increase  your  crops 
besides.  This  advice  is  good  for  tiiousands  besides  you. 

Barley  Sjn'onfs  as  Manure. — “  J.  S.,” 

Tamaqua  Co.,  Pa.,  has  used  the  barley  sprouts  of  tlie 
breweries,  with  very  good  results  on  potatoes  and  otlier 
vegetables,  (two  liandfuls  to  the  hill  of  potatoes),  and 
asks,  if  it  can  be  regarded  as  a  substitute  for  stable  ma¬ 
nure  ?  No,  not  by  itself.  Composted  with  swamp  muck, 
and  adding  lime,  ashes,  plaster  etc.,  to  the  soil,  in  mod¬ 
erate  quantities,  it  may  substitute  stable  manure. 

Antlirncite  Ooal  Aslies. — “New  Sub¬ 
scriber”  writes:  “An  English  writer  states  that  tlie 
ashes  of  English  (bituminous)  coal  are  good  to  mix  with 
animal  manures,  to  absorb  or  retain,  till  needed  by  vege¬ 
tation— those  good  qualities  of  the  manure  which  might 
be  lost ;  or  as  I  understand  it,  that  they  might  have  the 
same  effect,  in  some  degree,  as  plaster,”  and  asks  :  “  Are 
the  ashes  of  anthracite  coal  of  any  value  for  tlie  same 
purpose?” — Yes— but  not  of  uniform  value.  Screened 
free  from  clinkers,  they  make  a  good  addition  to  dung 
composts,  or  may  be  used  alone  on  grass  in  autumn. 

Buried  a.iid  Ex» 
posed.— Bidwell  Bros.,  Ramsey  Co.,  Min.,  send  us  the 
following  communication,  wliich  has  special  interest  for 
bee-keepers.  We  print  it,  hoping  to  receive  from  our 
correspondents  a  statement  of  tlieir  method  of  burying 
tlieir  bees.  Tliey  write “  On  tlie  26th  of  October  last 
we  selected  ten  stocks  of  bees  to  winter  out  of  doors, 
and  weighed  each.  On  March  25th  (nearly  five  months) 
we  weighed  them  again,  and  found  the  following  result,: 


Oct.  26. 

March  25. 

Loss. 

Oct.  26. 

March  25. 

Loss. 

75  lbs. 

55%  lbs. 

PJ%lbs. 

74  lbs. 

41%  lbs. 

3-2%  lbs 

Slif  “ 

53%  ■“ 

27%  “ 

77%  “ 

49%  “ 

28  “ 

73%  “ 

47  “ 

26%  “ 

79%  “ 

53%  “ 

26  “ 

73%  “ 

48%  “ 

25%  “ 

77%  “ 

51  “ 

26%  “ 

73%  “ 

47%  “ 

26  “ 

70  “ 

46‘i  “ 

23%  “ 

Wliole  number  of  pounds  of  honey  consumed . 265 


Average  consumption  in  each  hive . 26K 

The  thermometer  ranged  from  68  above  to  33  below  zero. 
We  buried  in  the  ground  eighteen  miscellaneous  stocks, 
October  26th,  and  re-weighed  tliem  the  27lh  of  March, 
with  the  following  result.  There  were  eight  hives  in  the 
bottom  tier,  six  in  the  middle,  and  four  in  the  top  tier. 


Oct.  26. 

March  27. 

Loss. 

92%  lbs 

....  78%  lbs;  . . 

92%  “ 

....  79%  “  .. 

..  13%  “  .. 

. .  top  tier. 

92  “ 

....  79%  “  .. 

..  12%  “  . 

. .  top  tier. 

91%  “ 

....  79%  “  . 

..  11%  “  . 

. .  top  tier. 

90%  “ 

....  80%  “  . . 

..  9%  “  . 

. .  middle  tier. 

87%  “ 

....  78%  “  .. 

..  8%  “  . 

. .  middle  tier. 

72%  “ 

....  65%  “  .. 

. .  middle  tier. 

87  “ 

....  80  “  . 

-.7  “  . 

. .  middle  tier. 

82  “ 

....  75%  “  . 

..  6%  “  . 

..  middle  tier. 

87  “ 

....  78%  “  . 

..  8%  “  . 

. .  middle  tier. 

93  “ 

....  85%  “  . 

..  7%  “  . 

. .  bottom  tier. 

90  “ 

....83  “  . 

..7  “  . 

. .  bottom  tier. 

90%  “ 

....  83%  “  . 

..7  “  . 

. .  bottom  tier. 

78  “ 

....  72%  “  . 

..  5%  “  . 

. .  bottom  tier. 

69%  “ 

....  6.5%  “  . 

..4  “ 

. .  bottom  tier. 

63%  “ 

....  60%  “  . 

...3  “  . 

. .  bottom  tier. 

67  “ 

....  64%  “  . 

...  2%  “  . 

..  bottom  tier. 

56%  “ 

....  54%  “  . 

..2  “  , 

. .  bottom  tier. 

Total  amount  of  honey  consumed,.. 
Average, . . 

.  . .  136%  lbs. 

“We  miglit  remark  that  the  greatest  stocks  out  of  doors, 
and  the  strongest  in  the  ground,  consumed  proportion¬ 
ately  the  most  honey.  Those  at  the  bottom  of  the  pit 
less  than  those  at  the  top.  The  dirt  was  four  feet  through 
at  the  bottom,  and  only  one  at  the  top.  The  stocks  that 
wintered  in  the  open  air  lost  about  half  of  their  numbers, 
while  those  buried  increased  some,  and  came  out  bright. 
We  shall  bury  all  our  bees  next  winter.” 

'I'o  ^top  C!iij»iii«iclcs  Bulliug"  Com. 

— S.  M.  T.  says  his  neighbors  “  soak  their  corn  in  a  decoc¬ 
tion  of  tobacco,  and  it  has  invariably  put  a  stop  to  the 
depredations  of  tlie  Chipmucks.”  Still,  he  asks  for  a  bet¬ 
ter  remedy.  Why  is  not  this  good  enough  ? 

Mixing-  of  Blnints. — G.  Paul,  St.  Louis, 
Co.,  Mo.,  and  others.  According  to  the  laws  of  plant  life, 
as  we  now  understand  them,  admixture  of  different  kinds 
of  nearly  related  plants,  can  only  take  place  through  the 
seed.  That  the  fruit  which  encloses  the  seed  may  be 
changed  by  cross  impregnation  is  quite  probable,  but  it 
is  not  proven.  Carrots  and  beets  may  be  raised  for  seed 
in  close  proximity  to  ruta-bagas,  or  any  other  turnips, 
without  the  slightest  clianoe  of  any  change  from  this- 
cause,  although  the  turnips  or  the  other  vegetables  may 
deteriorate,  for  the  reason  that  the  plants  were  not  well 
grown.  As  to  the  question  of  potatoes  mixing  in  the 
hill,  we  have  many  assertions  that  they  will  do  so,  but 
1  no  proof,  and  we  should  require  evidence,  such  as  would 


convict  a  man  of  murder,  before  we  could  be  convinced 
of  the  truth  of  the  statement.  That  potatoes  may  vary, 
and  that  a  colored  variety  may  produce  tubers  partly  ; 
white,  or  a  white  variety  yield  tliose  liaving  colored 
markings,  we  can  readily  admit,  but  instead  of  attribut-  ] 
ing-  it  to  any  influence  of  mingling  sorts,  we  should 
rather  ascribe  it  to  the  breaking  out  of  some  latent  pecu¬ 
liarity.  We  have  seen  one  brancli  of  a  grape  vine  pro-  i 
duce  leaves  mottled,  and  margitied  with  white,  and  so 
with  other  plants,  and  see  no  reason  why,  under  favoring  , 
circumstances,  potatoes,  which  are  merely  branches  pe¬ 
culiarly  developed,  sliould  not  sport  as  well.  || 

^el4-ISeg'iilatiiig-  IFountaiii.  —  S.  1). 

Newbro,  of  Ingham  County,  Michigan,  writes  that  he 
employs  for  securing  a  small  but  regular  discharge  of  1 1 
cider  into  the  sawdust  leach  box,  in  the’ process  of  l] 
making  vinegar  in  the  quick  vvay,  an  apparatus  similar  !' 
to  tlie  one  liere  figured,  in  which  R  is  a  reservoir,  T  a  :i 
trough  connected  with  R  by 
a  pipe,  the  pipe  entering 
first  a  box  below,  from 
which  the  flow  into  the 
trough  is  regulated  by  a 
valve  attached  to  the  float 
F.  When  the  float  rises  to 
a  certain  hight,  tlie  valve 
closes,  but  re-opens  again 
when  the  cider  is  drawn 
down.  The  spiggot,  S,  is  inserted  at  any  convenient 
place  in  tlie  trough.  Mr.  N.  suggests  the  value  of  this  i 
contrivance  for  maintaining  a  regular  flow  of  sap  into  1 
the  evaporating  pans  in  maple  sugar  making,  and  also  its 
application  as  a  fountain  of  fresh  water  for  poultry,— for 
which  purposes  it  is  available,  if  the  valve  close  lightly.  ) 

West  Jersey  Pruit  Gro-wers’  Asso= 

ciatioii. — The  second  annual  Report  of  this  Society  is 
at  hand.  It  is  a  modest  little  pamphlet,  but  much  more  I 
valuable  than  some  of  greater  pretension,  as  it  records 
the  experience  of  its  members  with  certain  varieties  of  • 
fruits,  in  a  concise  and  definite  manner.  Any  one  living  i 
in  Burlington  Co.,  and  w  ishing  to  know  what  fruits  suc¬ 
ceed  there,  can  find  in  this  little  report  just  the  informa¬ 
tion  he  needs.  We  have  looked  over  its  contents  witli 
interest,  and  commend  the  example  of  the  West  Jersey 
Association  to  other  Horticultural  Societies. 

Ca.talog'iies,  etc.,  ISeceivetl. — John 
Vanderbilt,  23  Fulton  street,  has  issued  a  new  illustrated 
catalogue,  full  of  cngr.avings  of  everything  in  the  way 
of  agrieultural  and  horticultural  implements,  from  a 
threshing  machine  to  a  garden  rake,  with  descriptions  in 

both  Englisli  and  Spanish . The  Report  of  the  State 

Board  of  Agriculture  of  California  is  at  hand.  Though 
it  treats  mainly  of  local  matters,  it  abundantly  shows 
that  the  people  of  that  Slate  fully  appreciate  their  wond-  i 
erful  natural  facilities  for  making  California  a  leading 
agricultural  State,  and  mean  to  improve  them. 

The  Veg'ei.ahle.s  oif  AaiiB.erica. — A  new 
edition  of  this  work,  by  Fearing  Burr,J  r.,  has  been  publish¬ 
ed  by  J.  E.  Tilton  &  Co.,  of  Boston ,  and  is  a  most  elegant 
specimen  of  book-making.  The  letter-press,  engravings, 
and  paper  are  of  a  character  not  often  seen  in  books  of 
tliis  class.  With  regard  to  the  matter,  it  is  a  most  useful 
compendium  of  tlie  cultivated  vegetables,  giving  descrip¬ 
tions  of  varieties,  with  interesting  notes  concerning  their  ' 
origin  and  history.  Altliough  it  was  not  within  the  inten¬ 
tion  of  the  author  to  write  a  hand-book  of  practical  i 
gardening,  he  has  given  brief  directions  for  the  cultiva¬ 
tion  of  the  different  varieties  of  vegetables.  Both  author  \ 
and  publishers  can  congratulate  themselves  upon  having  ; 
produced  a  work  that  is  both  useful  and  elegant.  i 

Trimraing'  Trsiit  Ti*ce.<s.  If  “  young 
Farmer”  had  read  the  calendar  carefully,  he  would  have 
learned  that  fruit  trees  may  be  “  trimmed”  at  any  con¬ 
venient  season  with  the  knife,  but  that  limbs  large  enoiigli 
to  require  the  saw  are  best  removed  in  summer  or  later. 

Spring-  Bud«liiig-  tl»e  fl®curli. — Several  | 
correspondents  stale  that  they  have  been  more  success¬ 
ful  in  budding  the  peach  in  spring  than  at  any  other  lime.  ■ 
The  twigs  containing  buds  should  be  cut  before  vegeta-  , 
tion  starts,  and  preserved  in  the  same  manner  as  cions.  ! 

Tlo-wers  foi,*  Slundy  SitHations. — 

The  Pansy  and  the  Forget-Me-Not,  the  Primroses  and 
Nemophilas,  all  do  well.  For  tlieso  last,  we  wish  to 
speak  a  special  kind  word.  The  N.  maculata  is  one  of 
the  largest,  white,  and  blotched  with  violet.  N.  insignis, 
is  sky  blue,  small,  but  a  great  bloomer.  N.  discoidalis, 
is  a  rich  maroon,  bordered  with  white.  They  are  all 
Californian  annuals  of  the  easiest  culture,  and  if  they 
have  a  partial  shade,  will  bloom  freely. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


1863,] 


Svipply  of  Farm  l.al>or.— We  agaiu 
take  occaMon  to  direct  attention  to  the  advertisement 
of  the  American  Emigrant  Company.  It  contains  a 
well  timed  proposition  for  supplying  farmers  in  all  sec¬ 
tions  of  the  country  with  labor,  in  a  feasible  and  prac¬ 
tical  manner.  The  object  of  the  company  is  to  disperse 
ail  through  the  interior  of  the  country  the  laboring 
people  who  are  constantly  arriving  at  New  York,  and  in 
order  to  accomplish  this,  it  sends  under  the  care  of  a  con¬ 
ductor,  companies  of  newly  arrived  immigrants,  varying 
from  20  to  50  in  number,  to  designated  localities.  These 
companies  are  composed  of  men  and  women  of  such 
description  and  qualification  as  are  required,  and  pre¬ 
viously  ordered  by  persons  living  in  the  neighborhoods 
to  which  they  are  sent.  The  immigrants  so  sent  out  are 
delivered  at  any  specified  point  to  a  person  appointed  to 
receive  them  on  behalf  of  those  who  have  ordered  them, 
and  will  have  contracts  made  with  them  either  to  work 
for  a  specified  term  (if  that  be  desirable),  or  at  all  events 
for  a  sufficient  length  of  time  to  repay  all  the  cost  attend¬ 
ing  their  transportation.  Thus  every  section  of  the 
country  can  be  supplied  promptly  and  certainly  with 
labor  just  as  cheap  as  it  is  to  be  had  at  the  sea-coast. 
The  company  has  established  a  widely  ramified  system 
of  agencies  in  Europe  and  is  exporting  large  numbers 
of  German,  Swiss,  Swedish,  and  Danish  laborers  as  well 
as  British,  and  is  thus  prepared  to  furnish  help  of  almost 
any  nationality  that  may  be  desired.  It  is  also  engaged 
now  in  the  work  of  establishing  agencies  through  the 
various  States  of  the  West  to  facilitate  the  dissemination 
of  workmen  in  the  interior.  It  is  of  the  greatest  prac¬ 
tical  importance  that  some  such  plan  should  succeed, 
and  as  we  know  the  company  is  one  of  character  and 
capacity,  we  have  satisfaction  in  commending  its  opera¬ 
tions  to  the  farmers  of  our  great  land, 

Fire-Proof*  Sliingles.— A  writer  iu  the 
Boston  Cultivator  says  he  had  always  noticed  that  the 
staves  of  an  old  soap  barrel,  or  pork  tub,  made  very 
poor  kindling-wood,  and  so  he  argued  that  potash  and 
salt  would  tend  to  keep  his  roof  from  kindling.  Being  a 
blacksmith,  this  was  a  matter  of  some  importance.  So, 
in  preparing  his  shingles,  he  took  half  a  bushel  of  lime, 
half  a  bushel  of  refuse  salt,  and  five  pounds  of  potash, 
and  water  enough  to  slake  the  lime  and  dissolve  the 
alkali  and  salt.  He  mixed  these  up  in  an  old  trough,  or 
box.  Then  he  set  a  bundle  of  shingles  into  the  mixture, 
nearly  up  to  the  bands,  leaving  them  soaking  for  full  two 
hours.  Then  he  turned  over  the  bunch,  and  put  in  the 
other  side,  for  the  same  length  of  time.  As  exposure  to 
rain  and  sunsiiine  will,  in  time,  take  out  the  strength  of  this 
mixture,  it  should  be  applied,  fresh,  once  in  3  or  4  years. 

The  Cornell  University.— Hon.  Ezra 
Cornell,  of  Ithica,  has  offered  to  the  State  of  New 
York,  to  endow  an  institution  of  learning,  to  be  called 
by  his  name,  with  $500,000,  and  200  acres  of  land  on  cer¬ 
tain  conditions,  the  principal  of  which  is,  that  the  grant 
of  land  made  by  the  United  States,  for  fhe  benefit  of 
agricultural  and  technical  education,  be  given  to  this 
University.  This  very  munificient  proposition  has  been 
accepted  by  the  Legislature,  subject  to  the  condition  that 
the  People’s  College  to  which  the  U.  S.  fund  was  origi¬ 
nally,  but  conditionally  given,  complied  with  conditions 
then  imposed  within  thirty  days,  a  result  which  has  not 
been  attained.  Mr.  Cornell  is  widely  known  for  his  busi¬ 
ness  ability,  for  his  liberality,  and  as  an  ardent  friend  of 
agriculture  and  education.  The  trustees  named  in  the 
bill,  are  men  who  will  carry  out  his  views,  and  accom¬ 
plish  the  objects  of  the  endowment,  which  are  as  stated  in 
the  bill,  “  the  cultivation  of  the  arts  and  sciences  and  of 
literature,  and  the  Instruction  in  agriculture,  the  me¬ 
chanic  arts  and  military  tactics,  and  in  all  knowledge.” 


Wild  liiiclcwlieat. — In  January  the  ques¬ 
tion  was  asked,  if  the  wild  buckwheat  was  poisonous. 
N.  Engle,  of  Wabasha  Co.,  Minn.,  says,  it  is  not,  but  if 
ground,  “is  worth  about  as  much  as  the  same  weight  of 
oats  as  food  for  cattle.  Mine  fatten  on  it.”  On  the  other 
hand,  J.  R.  Comstock,  Clayton  Co.,  Iowa,  says,  that  he 
once  fed  four  horses  on  oats,  which  were  mixed  with 
wild  buckwheat  in  the  proportion  of  about  one-third  of 
the  whole.  One  horse  was  killed,  another  made  sick, 
and  the  other  two  did  not  eat  up  their  feed.  These  two 
accounts  differ  so  widely,  that  we  must  conclude,  that 
they  either  do  not  refer  to  the  same  thing,  or  that,  while 
cattle  may  eat  it,  horses  are  injured  by  it. 

Ci}a.lva.nized  Iron. — L.  A.  Leland,  St.  Jo¬ 
seph  Co.,  Mich.  The  term  “galvanized”  is  a  technical 
term,  applied  to  iron  that  has  been  coated  by  a  film  of 
zinc.  Treated  in  this  way,  wire,  and  other  articles  made 
of  Iron,  are  in  no  respect  altered,  save  that  the  thin  cov¬ 
ering  of  zinc  effectually  prevents  them  from  rusting. 
The  suggestion  of  using  galvanized  iron  wire  for  a  cloth¬ 
es  line,  was  first  made  in  the  Agriculturist  long  ago,  and 
has  been  copied  by  various  papers  without  credit. 


Erecting' Gravel  Wall  Houses. 

The  delay  in  fulfilling  a  promise  ■which  we 
made  some  months  since  has  caused  no  little 
inquiry  among  our  readers  iu  regard  to  the 
details  of  building  gravel-wall  houses.  As  we 
then  said,  we  have  no  personal  experience  in 
building  concrete  walls,  and  so  tve  have  applied 
to  an  old  friend  and  staunch  farmer  who  has. 
He  sends  us  the  following  minute  instructions. 
Which  come  in  good  time  for  those  whose  plans 
are  formed  and  who  can  give  their  own  personal 
supervision  to  the  work  during  the  dry  weather 
between  June  and  October.  Mr.  Edwin  Hoyt, 
of  Fairfield  Co.,  Conn.,  writes: 

The  Plan. — The  first  thing  is  the  plan  of  the 
house.  This  should  have  been  well  studied, 
and  every  thing  definitely  decided  upon.  Plain 
working  drawings  must  be  made  of  cellar,  ground 
and  chamber  floors,  with  elevations  of  the  sides. 
Every  door,  chimney,  and  window  should  be 
positively  located  before  any  of  the  wall  is  laid, 
for  it  is  essential  in  making  the  “  curbing”  that 
the  bolts,  cleats,  etc.,  are  so  arranged  as  not  to 
interfere  with  the  window  and  door  frames.  It 
will  be  found,  moreover,  a  great  convenience  if 
the  windows  in  one  story  correspond  in  size  and 
position  exactly  with  those  in  the  other,  espe¬ 
cially  where  stone  window  caps  are  used,  so 
that  the  curbing,  which  must  be  cut  to  let  the 
caps  project,  will  not  need  to  be  altered. 

It  will  be  observed  that  the  system  of  building 
which  Mr.  Hoyt  uses,  and  considers  superior  to 
every  other,  is  that  of  laying  the  concrete  between 
curbing  boards  in  place,  that  is,  where  it  is  to 
remain — the  curbing  being  lifted,  as  soon  as  one 
course  hardens,  and  set  for  an  other. 

The  Curbing. — This  consists  of  an  inside  and 
an  outside  board  for  each  side  of  the  house — 
that  is  four  pairs,  for  common  square  houses. 
Each  board  is  20  inches  wide — and  the  full 
length  of  the  wall,  of  li  inch  stuff,  and  is 
composed  of  strips,  5  inches  wide,  fastened  to¬ 
gether  so  as  to  break  joints. 

Care  should  be  taken  that  joints  do  not  break, 
in  contiguous  strips,  at  or  near  the  same  place, 
and  that  no  moi’e  than  two  strips  should  break 
joints  at  the  same  section  of  the  curb-boards. 
Cleats  should  be  put  wherever  joints  break,  and 
nailed  with  wrought  nails,  well  clinched,  put¬ 
ting  two  nails  in  each  strip. 

It  will  be  no  disadvantage  to  make  the  boards 
very  stiff,  and  it  may  even  be  necessary  to  put 
cleats  thicker  than  specified.  They  should  be 
from  five  to  six  feet  apart,  just  as  it  happens. 
Care  should  be  taken  not  to  have  a  cleat  come 
where  a  window,  or  chimney  comes.  The  ends 
of  each  curb  should  be  perfectly  square,  and  the 
outer  curbs  exactly  H  inches  longer  than  the 
length  of  the  wall.  The  cleat,  at  one  end  of 
each,  should  extend  one  inch  beyond  the  end, 
and  at  the  other,  it  should  be  flush  with  the 
end.  These  end  cleats  are  10  inches  wide,  to 
give  requisite  stiffness.  When  the  curbing  is 
put  up  all  around,  the  projecting  cleats  will 
form  “  gains,”  into  which  the  plain  ends  of  the 
other  boards  will  fit,  forming  tight  square 
corners.  The  inside  curbing  should  be  ar¬ 
ranged  as  follows: — Two  of  the  curb-boards 
should  be  li  inches  shorter  than  the  inner  face 
of  the  wall,  and  the  other  two  should  be  3 
inches  shorter  (that  is  if  the  curbs  are  of  1^ 
inch  stuff),  and  the  end  cleats  should  be  about 
6  inches  from  the  ends.  The  cleats  next  to  the 
end  ones,  on  the  outside  boards,  must  come  op¬ 
posite  these,  and  all  the  other  cleats  opposite. 
The  outside  and  inside  curbs  must  correspond 
in  pau’s — and  be  so  marked.  If  the  inside  curb¬ 
ings  be  made  accurately  of  the  length  prescrib¬ 


175 


ed,  when  put  together,  two  opposite  corners  w'ill 
be  short,  just  the  thickness  of  the  curb-boards. 
This  square  space  must  be  filled  by  a  stick,  1^- 
inches  square  and  two  feet  long,  which,  when 
the  curbing  comes  to  be  moved,  may  be  drawn 
or  driven  out,  to  enable  the  boards  to  be  slipped. 

Having  the  curbing  cleated  and  nailed  to¬ 
gether,  bore  holes  |  inch  in  diameter  through 
the  cleats,  exactly  5  inches  from  the  bottom. 
The  holes  are  for  the  rods  which  connect  the 
inside  and  outside  curbing,  and  are  of  i-iucli, 
or  l-iuch  iron.  They  should  each  have  an  eye 
of  I5  inches  inside  diametei’,  turned  on  one  end, 
and  a  thread  for  a  nut  cut  on  the  other.  The 
nut  should  have  a  “tail”  to  it,  to  turn  by  hand. 
Bore  a  |-hole  into  the  upper  end  of  each  cleat, 
to  receive  a  spike-nail.  A  2  x  2  stud  is  cut  iu 
pieces,  8  inches  longer  than  the  width  of  the 
wall.  Through  these  pieces  spikes  should  be 
driven,  so  that  when  placed  on  the  tops  of 
the  curbs,  and  nails  inserted  in  the  holes 
before  mentioned,  the  curbs  will  be  exactly  the 
right  distance  apart. 

If  the  rods,  and  cleats  at  the  top,  are  four 
feet,  or  moi'e  apart,  there  should  be  clamps 
between,  to  keep  the  boards  in  place.  For  this 
purpose,  take  3x3  inch  studs,  and  saw  into 
pieces  of  suitable  length,  and  into  each  end 
frame  side  pieces,  just  as  for  a  “bolster”  to  a 
lumber  wagon.  They  must  be  one  inch  further 
apart  than  the  width  of  the  wall  and  curbing. 
Oak  boards,  one  inch  in  thickness,  will  be 
sufficient,  if  they  have  a  good  shoulder  ou  the 
outside.  The  side  pieces  should  be  long  enough 
to  pass  two  of  the  5  five-inch  strips,  and  well  on 
to  the  third.  The  clamps  will,  wdien  put  on, 
have  a  play  of  one  inch.  This  is  to  receive  an 
inch  piece,  say  15  inches  long  and  5  wide, 
made  necessary  by  the  fact  that  when  the  curb¬ 
ing  is  filled,  the  pressure  is  so  great,  that  the 
clamp  cannot  be  lifted  up,  when  you  wish  to  re¬ 
move  the  boards ;  but  by  taking  a  hammer  and 
driving  out  the  inch  piece,  it  at  once  relieves 
the  clamp.  It  is  best  to  have  enough  of  these 
rods,  cleats,  etc.,  that  the  wall  may  be  kept  in 
its  place.  The  corners  of  the  outside  boards 
should  be  held  by  two  iron  clasps,  one  at  the 
top  and  one  at  the  bottom,  say  two  to  three 
inches  from  either  edge.  They  should  be  made 
of  ox-shoe  iron,  (and  heavier  would  be  better,) 
and  should  be  made  exactly  at  right  angles. 
One  end  should  be  fastened  to  the  board  with  a 
staple,  the  other  end  should  be  made  with  a 
hole,  so  as  to  receive  an  iron  pin.  If  these  iron 
clasps  are  made  an  exact  right  angle,  and  the 
curbing  boards  made  square  at  the  ends,  when 
the  corners  are  brought  together,  they  will  fit 
snug,  and  cannot  get  away.  If  the  corners 
are  snug,  rest  assured,  the  curbing  boards  are 
level  or  plumb.  If  the  joint  at  the  corner  is  not 
a  fit,  then  some  thing  is  out  of  true  somewhere. 

The  Cellar  walls  should  be  built  of  stone. 
Do  not  build  any  “  gravel  wall”  below  the  sur¬ 
face  of  the  ground.  It  is  better  to  have  a  good 
foundation  and  water  table.  There  are  many 
cheap  houses  of  this  material,  with  brick  founda¬ 
tions  ;  but  it  is  best  to  build  well.  Do  not  spoil 
the  house  to  save  a  few  dollars. 

It  is  not  necessary  to  use  cement  in  building 
the  walls.  Use  good  lime,  and  not  too  much.  (I 
used  16  of  sand  to  1  of  lime.)  With  good  gravel 
and  care,  the  material  will  give  satisfaction. 

Having  the  curbing  ready,  set  the  floor  joists 
and  fill  up  between  them  with  concrete.  The 
outside  boards  may  be  used  for  this  purpose,  but 
will  require  some  care  to  keep  them  in  place,  and 
this  must  be  done  by  outside  braces.  The  inside 
must  be  built  up  as  one  would  lay  a  walk 
Having  leveled  up  to  top  of  the  floor  timber,  set 


176 


AMEBICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[JXJNE, 


the  window  and  door  frames.  These  should  be 
nailed  to  studs,  which  should  he  nailed  to  the 
floor  timbers,  and  placed  plumb.  When  plumb, 
the  top  should  be  staj'ed  to  the  floor  joist,  by  a 
good  stiff  stay  at  each  side  of  the  frame.  Where 
the  space,  from  window  to  window,  or  door,  is 
too  long,  place  in  a  stud  with  a  straight  edge, 
exactly  flush  with  the  inside  of  the  wall. 
These  sticks  are  of  great  use  to  keep  the 
wall  plumb  and  to  nail  the  mop-board, 
pictures,  etc.,  to.  It  will  not  do  any  injury  to 
put  in  straight  edges,  as  many  as  you  choose, 
on  the  inside  of  the  wall,  but  none  outside. 
The  window  and  door  frames  should  be  set  in 
1  §  inches  from  the  front  face  of  the  wall,  and  a 
beveled  strip  should  be  sawed  out  and  nailed  on, 
so  as  to  come  out  flush  with  the  outside,  and  give 
a  beveled  corner,  instead  of  a  square  one  to  the 
concrete.  This,  also,  is  a  guide  for  the  outside 
curbing,  which  can  be  tacked  to  the  frame. 

Having  the  windows  and  doors  set,  make 
moulds  for  the  chimney  flues ;  they  may  be  14 
inches  wide  and  4  inches  thick.  Take  two- 
inch  strips  for  the  sides,  and  nail  on  inch  boards. 
Let  the  strips  be  24  feet  long,  and  bore  a  hole 
at  the  top  of  each,  through  which  an  old  broom 
handle  may  be  run,  to  draw  up  the  mould  by. 
The  moulds  should  be  about  22  or  23  inches 
long.  They  are  drawn  up  each  time  before  the 
curbing  is  loosened  for  the  next  course. 

The  first  course  will  be  20  inches  high,  or  the 
whole  width  of  the  curbing  boards.  The  mortar 
should  be  made  thin,  so  as  to  pour  from  a  pail, 
and  all  the  stones  possible  worked  in.  It  is 
better  to  lay  the  stones  in,  in  some  order.  After 
the  first  course,  the  boards  should  be  raised  but 
15  inches,  letting  the  rods  rest  on  the  top  of  the 
last  course.  The  inside  board  can  be  tacked  to 
the  window  studs,  pieces  in  the  wall,  etc.,  as 
above  stated.  When  the  boards  are  raised,  turn 
up  the  nuts,  having  a  stick  in  one  hand  just  the 
length  your  -wall  is  thick,  place  this  in  between 
the  boards  and  turn  up  the  nuts.  Five  inches  of 
the  board  must  remain  lapping  on  the  last  course. 
A  good  plumb  and  level  should  always  be  at 
hand.  Three  or  four  courses  per  week  will  be  all 
that  it  is  advisable  to  lay.  Never  loosen  up  the 
curbing  when  there  is  appearance  of  rain.  If  you 
wish  to  use  stone  window  sills,  leave  a  place,  and 
put  them  in  afterward.  The  caps  should  be  put 
in  when  you  come  to  them.  The  curbing  board 
can  be  cut  out,  so  as  to  let  them  project  out,  far 
enough  to  receive  the  stucco.  After  you  have 
passed  the  window,  nail  the  pieces  in  again. 

Make  the  staging  strong,  and  fill  the  first  story 
from  the  outside.  It  will  be  necessary  to  have 
a  scaffold  on  the  outside  to  raise  and  adjust  the 
boards.  The  scaffold  poles  will  require  to  be 
well  stayed.  Drive  stakes  into  the  ground  to 
fasten  the  stays  to.  This  scaffold  can  be  used 
by  the  carpenters,  to  cornice,  &c.  Also  for  the 
masons,  to  put  on  the  stucco. 

The  Stucco  should  be  put  on  by  some  per¬ 
son  who  understands  the  business.  This  is  one 
of  the  most  important  things,  for  the  good  looks 
of  the  house.  It  is  not  necessary  to  ‘  fur  ’  out  for 
the  wall.  Plaster  directly  upon  the  ‘  gravel  wall.’ 
Pains  should  be  taken  to  “  anchor”  the  timbers 
the  same  as  in  brick  houses.  Do  not  hurry 
too  fast,  and  work  only  in  fair  weather.  A  wall, 
twenty-five  or  six  feet  high,  can  be  built  in  two 
months.  Use  care  in  moving  the  curbing 
boards,  and  be  exact  with  each  course.  Those 
studs,  or  straight  edges,  put  into  the  inside  of 
the  wall,  should  be  “  anchored.”  This  can  be 
done  by  nailing  on  pieces  of  boards,  to  run  back 
into  the  wall,  8  or  10  inches;  make  the  ending  in 
the  wall  the  largest.  A  person  with  ingenuity 
will  take  my  ideas,  and  go  on  with  little  trouble. 


Tim  Bunker  on  the  Pickle  Fever  in 
Hookertown. 

Mb.  Editor  : — “  I  knew  it  would  be  so,”  said 
Mrs.  Bunker,  raising  the  gold-bowed  spectacles 
from  her  e5'es,  as  I  came  home  from  holding 
court  one  night,  “  I  knew  it  would  be  so.  That 
paper  is  just  like  a  whispering  gallery,  Timothy. 
Every  thing  you  do  and  say  in  Hookertown  is 
echoed  from  one  end  of  the  land  to  the  other. 
Since  you  have  been  gone,  three  letters  have 
come  about  pickles,  and  Seth  Twiggs  and  Jake 
Frink  have  been  in,  and  I  guess  Mr.  Spooner 
has  a  touch  of  the  fever,  for  he  preached  Sun¬ 
day  about  the  ‘  Lodge  in  a  Garden  of  Cucum¬ 
bers.’  ” 

I  had  not  more  than  got  done  supper  when 
Seth  Twiggs  made  his  appearance  in  a  cloud  of 
very  blue  smoke,  and  he  hadn’t  got  the  first 
question  fairly  out  before  Jake  Frink  and  Kier 
from  the  White  Oaks,  knocked  at  the  door,  and 
Dea.  Smith  and  Jeremiah  Sparrowgrass  fol¬ 
lowed.  Think’s  I  to  myself,  I  guess  I  shall 
have  a  meetin’  to-night,  whether  the  minister 
does  or  not.  It  was  lecture  night,  and  I  sup¬ 
pose  the  deacon  stopt  in  on  his  way.  I  am 
afraid  he  didn’t  hear  the  bell,  for  he  didn’t 
start  when  it  had  done  tolling. 

“  Now,”  said  Seth  Twiggs,  bringing  his  pipe 
down  on  his  knee  with  an  emphasis  that  would 
have  smashed  it  if  it  had  been  worth  anything, 
“Du  ye  really  think  three  hundred  dollars  can 
be  made  on  an  acre  of  good  Hookertown  mea¬ 
dow,  in  pickles  ?” 

“ Is  it  clean  cash?”  asked  Jake  Frink  with  a 
dubious  look.  “  Them  fellers  as  deals  in  pickles 
is  apt  to  be  kind  of  sharp.” 

“  Du  ye  think  there  is  any  chance  for  us  up  in 
White  Oaks,  ’Squire,  to  go  into  pickle  business?” 
inquired  Kier  Frink,  the  hopeful  son  of  Jake. 

“  Fellow-citizens,”  says  I,  “  don’t  all  talk  at 
once,  and  I’ll  try  and  answer  your  questions. 
“  I’ve  got  three  letters  come  in  to-day’s  mail,  on 
the  pickle  business,  and  I  haven’t  had  time  to 
digest  them  yet.  The  policy  of  going  into  the 
cucumber  trade  depends  altogether  upon  the 
facility  of  a  market.  You  might  grow  cucum¬ 
bers  well  enough  in  Iowa,  but  if  you  had  to 
send  them  to  New-York  to  market,  it  wouldn’t 
pay  very  well  even  at  two  dollars  a  hundred. 
A  man  must  be  within  a  short  distance  of  a 
pickle  factory  if  he  purposes  to  deliver  his  crop 
from  his  own  market  wagon,  or  within  easy 
reach  of  the  factory  by  rail  or  steamer.  Steam¬ 
boat  carriage  is  better  and  cheaper  than  railroad. 
Twenty-five  cents  freight  on  a  barrel,  probably, 
would  not  interfere  with  reasonable  profits. 
The  pay  of  the  pickle  men  is  as  good  as  that  of 
any  other  class  of  manufacturers.  There  are 
few  in  the  business ;  their  profits  are  supposed 
to  be  large.  It  is  ready  pay  and  clean  cash,  if 
you  make  that  bargain  with  them.  Pay  as  you 
go  is  the  rule  in  pretty  much  all  kinds  of  busi¬ 
ness  now.  That  is  one  of  the  advantages  of  the 
war.  A  good  many  other  folks  besides  the 
rebels  have  found  out  just  where  they  stand.” 

“  Where  can  we  get  seed  ?”  asked  Dea.  Smith. 

“  That  is  one  of  the  most  important  things  in 
the  business.  I  do  not  know  of  any  one  who 
makes  a  business  of  growing  the  seed  to  sell, 
but  almost  every  farmer  who  has  a  pickle  patch 
grows  his  own  seed,  and  thinks  it  a  little  better 
than  any  thing  else.  If  a  man  is  going  into  the 
pickle  business,  it  will  pay  him  to  visit  West¬ 
chester  County.  He  can  hardly  go  amiss  of 
farmers  who  have  pickle  patches  in  Yonkers, 
East  Cliffiter,  West  Chester,  West  Farms,  and 


other  towns.  He  can  inquire  for  Noadiah 
Tubbs,  who  will  tell  him  all  about  it.  If  he 
does  not  want  to  be  at  that  trouble,  he  should 
send  to  the  nearest  good  seed  store.  I  have 
raised  fine  cucumbers  from  just  such  seed.” 

“  Do  you  salt  the  cucumbers  before  you  sell 
them  ?”  inquired  Sparrowgrass,  with  a  refresh¬ 
ing  greenness. 

“No,  Sir.  That  is  the  manufacturer’s  busi¬ 
ness.  He  wants  fresh  picked  cucumbers  to 
make  pickles  out  of.  Of  course  you  do  not 
want  tight  oak  barrels,  like  whiskey  casks,  to 
pack  your  cucumbers  in.  The  farmer  generally 
buys  up  a  lot  of  cheap  flour  bari'els,  when  he  is 
in  town,  at  the  baker’s  or  grocer’s,  or  at  the 
hotel,  and  these,  with  a  little  coopering,  will 
answer  his  purpose  for  a  single  season.  They 
are  sent  to  the  purchaser  or  consignee,  by  rail  or 
boat,  full  of  cucumbers,  and  sent  back  empty 
by  the  same  conveyance.  The  owner’s  name 
or  initials  should  be  put  upon  them.” 

“  What  sort  of  a  bargain  docs  the  farmer  make 
with  the  pickle  man  ?”  asked  Seth  Twiggs. 

“That  is  just  as  he  can  light  upon  chances. 
If  he  is  near  the  factory,  he  agrees  to  deliver  at 
so  much  per  thousand.  If  he  sends  by  other 
conveyance,  he  agrees  to  deliver  them  at  the 
nearest  depot,  or  landing,  or  to  pay  the  freight 
clear  through,  as  the  case  may  be.  The  terms 
will  vary  according  to  circumstances.  Some 
prefer  to  send  their  crop  to  a  commission  mer¬ 
chant  and  run  the  risk  of  the  markets.” 

“  How  about  sorting  ?”  asked  Kier  Frink. 

“  They  commonly  have  a  shed  or  hovel  for 
this  purpose  where  all  the  cucumbers  are  brought 
as  fast  as  picked,  and  are  assorted  into  three 
sizes,  the  largest  for  eating,  and  the  two  smaller 
for  pickles.  The  ‘  nubbins  ’  and  ‘  yellow  boys  ’ 
will  have  to  be  thrown  away  or  the  pickle  man 
will  do  it  for  you.  If  picked  regularly,  however, 
there  will  not  be  many  unmerchantable.” 

One  of  my  correspondents  wants  to  know  if 
night  soil  is  good  manure  for  this  crop.  He 
says:  “ I  have  got  261  one-horse  loads  of  night 
soil,  about  three-fourths  of  it  is  composted  with 
muck,  the  other  fourth  is  almost  the  pure  article. 
Shall  I  plow  in  the  former  and  put  half  a  shovel 
full  of  the  latter  into  the  hill.  My  land  is  a 
clay  loam — is  that  right  ?” 

The  trouble  with  the  pure  article  is  that  it  is 
quite  too  strong,  and  would  be  likely  to  rot  the 
seed  unless  great  pains  were,  taken  to  mix  it 
with  the  soil  at  the  time  of  planting.  I  should 
prefer  the  compost  in  the  hill,  and  either  com¬ 
post  the  rest  or  spread  it,  and  plow  it  in.  Such 
a  quantity  of  night  soil  ought  to  put  four  acres 
in  good  condition.  As  to  the  preparation  of  land, 
look  at  Diah  Tubbs’  views  in  back  numbers  of 
the  Agnculturist.  A  sandy  loam  is  considered 
the  best  for  all  kinds  of  vines,  but  heavy  crops 
are  grown  on  clay  lands.  With  night  soil  good 
pickles  can  be  raised  on  any  well  drained  land. 

He  also  wants  to  know  who  are  reliable  men 
engaged  in  this  business.  In  Wilson’s  Business 
Directory  he  will  find  a  list  of  pickle  dealers, 
the  most  of  whom  have  factories  either  in  the 
city  or  out  of  town.  Provost  &  Wells  have  a 
factory  at  West  Mt.  Vernon,  and  Broadmeadow 
&  Stout  at  Dobbs’  Ferry.  The  business  is  in 
very  few  hands,  and  judging  from  the  large  ad¬ 
vance  made  upon  the  raw  article,  must  yield  a 
fair  profit.  Probably  there  is  room  for  the  en¬ 
largement  of  the  business  and  for  nerv  men  to 
make  a  living.  Every  man  must  judge  for  him¬ 
self  whom  to  deal  with,  and  whether  the  pickle 
business  will  pay. 

Hookerlownt  Conn.,  )  Yours  to  command, 

3/ay  lOt/i,  1885.  j  Timothv  Bvnkes  Esq. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


177 


1865.] 


Horse-Fork  Hay-Stacker. 


H.  M.  Deming,  Kansas,  sends  to  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  a  sketch  and  description  of  a  Hay-Stacker, 
which,  he  writes,  he  has  used  with  much  satis¬ 
faction.  He  describes  it  thus :  “  Set  a  stiff  pole, 
(H,)  25  or  80  feet  long,  firmly  in  the  ground, 
and  about  8  feet  from  the  top,  bolt  on  a  block, 
which  has  a  socket  made  with  a  two-inch  auger. 
Fit  to  the  socket  one  end  of  another  light  pole, 
{B,)  about  11  feet  long,  and  shave  the  upper  end 
so  that  it  will  go  into  a  link  of  a  chain  extend¬ 
ing  from  the  top  of  the  main  pole  to  the  small 
one.  Pins  may  be  inserted  in  the  main  pole,  on 
which  a  man  can  ascend  to  the  top  to  adjust  the 
length  of  the  chain.  The  tops  of  the  poles 
should  be  about  5  to  8  feet  apart.  The  upper 
end  of  the  small  pole  should  receive  the  end 
link  of  the  chain,  and  a  pulley  can  be  hung  on 
the  hook.  The  main  pole  should  bear  a  very 
little  towards  the  staek,  so  that  the  forkful  of 
hay  will  swing  clear  over  the  stack  as  it  rises. 
Guy  ropes  extend  from  the  top  of  the  pole  to 
stakes  driven  firmly  in  the  ground  to  keep  it 
upright.  These  should  be  attached  so  as  not  to 
interfere  with  the  swinging  of  the  crane.”  It 
will  be  perceived  that  the  draw-rope,  to  which 
the  horse  is  attached,  passes  from  the  upper 
pulley  beneath  the  lower  one,  thence  over  the 
upper  one,  then  through  a  block  fastened  at  the 
base  of  the  large  pole.  By  this  arrangement, 
the  horse  is  required  to  travel  about  twice  as 
fast  as  the  fork  rises.  The  more  common  way 
of  using  a  fork  is  to  dispense  with  the  pulley  at 
the  fork,  and  hitch  one  end  of  the  rope  to  the 
bail,  and  the  horse  to  the  other  end,  by  simply 
passing  the  rope  over  a  single  pulley  at  the  top 
of  the  small  pole.  In  this  case,  the  fork  rises 
as  fast  as  the  horse  moves.  When  only  one 
pulley  is  used,  the  work  is  done  much  faster 
than  with  two,  and  it  will  not  require  so  much 
force  to  haul  the  fork  back  to  the  load.  But,  if 
a  horse  will  not  draw  steadily,  or  is  disposed  to 
start  suddenly,  it  is  better  to  have  a  pulley  at  the 
bail  of  the  fork.  The  manner  of  pitching  hay, 
with  such  an  apparatus,  is  to  hold  on  to  the 
forkftil  until  it  rises  clear  from  the  load,  when  a 
side  thrust  swings  it  over  the  stack.  Then  the 
stacker  pushes  it  where  he  wants  it,  as  nearly 
as  practicable,  and  gives  the  pitcher  a  signal  to 
drop  it.  But  this  cannot  be  done  with  long- 
handled  forks,  which  must  be  balanced  by  a 
cord  at  the  end  of  the  handle.  Sometimes  a 
man,  or  boy,  on  the  stack,  hauls  the  forkful 
£i-om  the  load  over  the  stack,  by  a  cord. 


To  Hitch  a  Horse  to 
the  End  of  a  Hope. 

The  usual  way  of  hitch¬ 
ing  a  horse  to  the  end  of 
a  rope  when  pitching  hay 
with  a  horse  hay-fork  is, 
to  use  a  whiflEletree.  But 
as  the  horse  is  required 
to  back  up  at  every  fork¬ 
ful,  he  is  liable  to  step  on 
the  whiffletree,  or  outside^ 
of  the  traces,  unless  much 
care  is  exercised  in  draw¬ 
ing  the  whiffletree  back 
as  fast  as  the  horse  moves. 
The  accompanying  illu¬ 
stration  represents  the 
manner  of  hitching  a 
horse  to  a  rope,  so  that  he 
can  not  get  his  feet  out 
of  the  traces,  even  if  he 
is  backed  rapidly,  or 
turned  around  carelessly. 
The  end  of  the  rope  is  fastened  in  a  ring  -^hich 
holds  a  hook  for  securing  the  cockeyes  of  the 
traces.  A  wooden  stretcher  two  feet  long,  and 
an  inch-and-a-half  in  diameter,  shaved  or  turned 
round,  having  a  small  iron  gudgeon  driven  into 
each  end,  and  extending  half  an  inch  beyond 
the  wood,  is  put  between  the  traces,  so  that  it 
rests  against  the  hams  of  the  horse,  when  he  is 
not  drawing.  A  hole  about  one  fourth  of  an 
inch  in  diameter  is  punched  or  bored  through 
each  trace,  for  receiving  the  gudgeons  of  the 
stretcher,  which  is  suspended  by  two  straps  fast¬ 
ened  near  its  ends,  and  rein  snaps  are  sewed  to 
the  other  end  of  the  straps,  which  are  hooked 
into  a  ring  in  the  back  strap  of  the  harness,  as 
shown  by  the  illustration.  If  chain  traces  be 


used,  the  gudgeons  may  enter  the  links.  If  the 
traces  are  to  be  released,  they  drop  from  the 
stretcher,  when  the  straps  may  be  unhooked. 

Another  great  advantage  of  hitching  a  horse 
in  this  manner  is,  a  boy  may  be  put  on  him 
when  pitching ;  and  instead  of  backing  the  horse 
at  every  forkful,  he  can  turn  him  directly  around, 
and  let  him  walk  or  trot  back  to  the  starting 
place,  much  sooner  than  he  could  be  backed. 
This  arrangement  renders  it  easier  for  the  man 
who  pitches,  as  he  is  not  required  to  draw  back 
so  much  rope  and  the  fork  besides.  If  the  horse, 
in  turning,  gees  around  over  the  rope,  he  will 
soon  untwist  and  spoil  it.  When  he  comes 
around  in  the  opposite  direction,  he  twists  it 
once  at  every  round,  making  it  harder  and 
hag:der.  It  is  better  to  twist  than  to  untwist  it, 
aa  the  twist  can  be  easily  taken  out. 


Fig.  1.— ELKVATION. 

Small,  CoEvenient,  Cheap  Houses. 

BY  KAKBAGANSETT. 


The  cottage  plan  presented  herewith,  is  de¬ 
signed  for  a  family  of  two  or  three  persons,  who 
desire  to  live  in  a  very  snug,  but  at  the  same 
time,  respectable  way.  The  main  part  covers 
18  ft.x25  ft.,  with  an  addition  of  one  story  in  the 


30  /fr 


Fig.  2— ¥I.AN  OF  FIKST  STORY. 


rear,  of  5  ft.xl6  ft.  Many  conveniences  will  be 
found  compressed  within  this  space. — Tlie  prin¬ 
cipal  rooms  upon  the  ground  floor  (fig.  2,)  are 
a  parlor  (P,)  and  kitchen,  (A,)  connecting  with 
each  other  and  witli  tlie  front  entry.  The 
kitchen  has,  adjoining  it,  a  sink  room,  (.S',)  pan¬ 
try,  (p,)  and  back  entry  (E).  From  the  front 
entry  is  a  way  to  the  cellar.  At  the  turn  in  the 
cellar  stairway  there  should  be  a  broad  landing, 
making  it  much  more  easy  of  descent.  A  china 
closet  (c,  c,)  opens  into  tlie  parlor  and  connects 
with  the  kitchen  by  a  slide.  The  parlor  is  pro¬ 
vided  with  a  bay  window  l!hich  gives  it  char¬ 
acter  and  adds  much  to  the  pleasantness  of  the 
apartment.  From  the  side  of  the  parlor  a  little 
room,  or  closet,  opens,  which,  by  persons  of 
some  literary  taste,  will  be  highly  appreciated. 
We  dignify  it  with  the  name  of  library.  Fur¬ 
nished  with  shelves  and  a  little  desk,  with  books 
and  writing  materials,  it  will  be  found  a  great 
convenience — a  most  desirable  appendage  to 
the  parlor.  The  window  in  the  library,  and  the 
corresponding  one  in  the  hall,  should  be  nar- 


Fig.  3— FRAN  OF  SECOND  STORY. 


row,  not  more  than  two  feet  wide. — The  upper 
floor  (fig.  3),  comprises  two  bedrooms  with  a 
closet  from  each,  and  a  large  store  closet  for 
clothing,  etc.,  opening  from  the  chamber  entry. 


178 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[J 


This  plan  is  designed  for  a  situation  upon  the 
jWTtli  side  of  a  I'oad  running  east  and  west,  and 
for  placing  tlie  cud  of  tlie  house  to  the  load, 
bringing  the  kitchen  upon  the  east  side  of  the 
house  and  the  parlor  to  the  east  and  south.  The 
bay  window  would  also  give 
a  western  view.  The  plan 
would  answer  well  also,  with 
slight  modifications,  for  a 
situation  upon  the  east  side 
of  a  road  running  north  and 
south.  In  that  case  the  en¬ 
trance  should  be  toward  the 
road,  the  kitchen  and  parlor 
retaining  their  positions  to 
the  east  and  south,  and'  a  transposition  should 
be  made  of  the  back  entrance  and  pantry  af  in 
fig.  4,  bringing  the  entry  more  to  the  rear.  The 
hood  over  the  main  entrance  may  be  supported 
by  brackets,  from  three-inch  plank,  seen  distinct¬ 
ly  in  the  engraving,  fig.  1.  The  posts  of  the 
house  should  be  fourteen  feet,  the  roof  project¬ 
ing  at  least  twenty  inches,  with  a  sharp  pitch. 


Thinning  Corn  in  the  Hills. 


Thinning  should  alwaj'^s  be  done  as  soon  as 
practicable  after  the  corn  has  come  up.  This 
is  usually  done  at  the  first  hoeing,  but  should 
be  delayed  till  danger  from  the  grub,  oi  cut¬ 
worm,  is  over.  Unless  careful  laborers  are  em 
ployed,  many  hills  will  be  neglected.  Super¬ 
fluous  stalks  may  be  removed  at  any  conve¬ 
nient  time,  even  in  lowery  weather,  when  the 
soil  is  too  wet  to  be  w’orked  with  cultivators  or 
hoes.  The  best  manner  of  doing  this  is  to  cut 
them  off  close  to  the  ground,  with  a  sharp 
knife,  and  drop  them  near  the  standing  corn. 
The  stalks  should  be  removed  from  the  middle 
of  the  hill,  that  the  remaining  plants  may  stand 
as  far  from  each  other  as  possible ;  the  farther 
they  stand  apart  the  larger  the  ears  will  grow. 
When  the  stalks  are  pulled  up,  they  will  often 
loosen  and  break  the  roots  of  those  that  are  left, 
but,  if  cut  off  as  directed,  the  roots  soon  die. 
If  care  be  not  exercised  in  dropping  only  a  pro¬ 
per  number  of  kernels  in  a  hill,  much  labor 
will  be  required  to  thin  out  a  large  field.  Still 
it  is  better  to  do  so  than  to  allow  five  or  six 
stalks  to  grow  where  there  should  be  only  three, 
or  at  most  four.  There  will  be  more  and  better 
grain  on  four  stalks  than  on  a  larger  number. 


Top-Dressing  Grass  Land. 

The  practice  of  burying  organic  manure 
deep  in  the  soil  is  fast  passing  away.  The  air 
cannot  readily  reach  it  to  decompose  and  render 
it  available  for  the  food  of  plants,  and  if  it  did, 
the  great  mass  of  the  roots  of  grasses  would 
not  penetrate  to  find  it.  They  prefer  the  first 
few  inches  of  soil  near  the  surface,  where  they 
get  the  benefit  of  the  rain  and  air,  and  the  well 
prepared  food  which  abounds  there.  The  plow 
and  the  spade  should  indeed  be  thrust  down 
deep,  but  the  fresh  manure  should  not  be  de¬ 
posited  below  the  deep-turned  furrow  slice,  but 
nearer  the  surface,  to  enrich  the  soil  only  as  the 
rains  carry  it  down,  or  as  it  becomes  thoroughly 
incorporated  with  the  soil.  The  letters  of  our 
subscribers  continually  testify  to  the  benefits  of 
top-dressing  meadows  and  pastures.  One  de¬ 
clares  that  though  the  farmers  in  his  section 
suffered  from  drouth  last  season,  yet  those 
fields  which  had  been  dressed  early  in  the  pre¬ 
vious  autumn  with  muck,  or  muck  and  manure 
composted,  or  even  strawy  manure,  suffered 
little  and  bore  handsome  crops.  It  is  a  grow¬ 


ing  practice  of  many  good  farmers  to  apply 
manure  over  their  meadows  immediately  after 
haying.  They  hold  that  it  protects  the  newly- 
exposed  roots  from  the  scorching  sun,  and 
brings  up  the  aftermath  vigorous  and  abundant. 
The  loss  of  volatile  matter  which  probably 
takes  place  is  not  so  bad  as  the  effect  of  a 
parching  heat  on  the  exposed  green  roots. 

When  the  land  is  rolling,  the  knolls  should 
receive  heavier  dressings  than  the  low  and  level 
land.  If  carted  out  and  spread  after  mowings 
or  in  autumn,  it  acts  as  a  mulch,  protecting  the. 
^•oots  of  the  grasses,  and  preventing  their  being 
thrown  out  by  the  frost.  This  work  can  genetT- 
ally  be  done  cheaper  in  autumn  than  spring,  and? 
with  less  injury  to  the  land  from  the  trampling, 
of  teams.  For  lawns,  fall  dressing  is  always' 
preferable  to  spring,  because  the.  manure  gpts 
washed  down  close  to  the  ground  and  out  oC 
sight  during  the  winter,  and  so  does,  not  inter¬ 
fere  with  the  close  cutting  in  summer. 


Manuring  Corn  after  it  is  Dp. 

Cii«umstauces  sometimes  render  it  impossi¬ 
ble  to  thoroughly  prepare  corn  ground  before 
planting,  and  it  is  often  advantageous  to  ma¬ 
nure  it  after  it  is  up.  This  must  be  done  at  the 
time  of  the  first  hoeing.  Along  the  seaboard 
where  the  Moss-bunkers  or  Menhaden  are  taken 
in  such  great  numbers,  they  are  much  used.  A 
shallow  furrow  is  made  with  a  small  plow, 
on  each  side  of  every  row,  a  few  inches  from 
the  hills,  turning  the  earth  away  from  the  row ; 
then  one  fish  is  placed  in  the  furrow  on  each 
side  of  every  hill.  Should  the  furrows  be  too 
shallow  in  some  places,  the  earth  is  worked  out 
a  little  with  the  foot  or  hand-hoe,  so  that  the 
fish  may  be  placed  below  the  surface  of  the  soil. 
Then  the  earth  is  turned  toward  the  hills,  and 
the  corn  hoed.  If  the  fish  should  be  displaced, 
the  workmen  bury  them  again  close  to  the  hill. 
By  the  time  of  the  second  hoeing,  they  will 
be  pretty  thoroughly  decomposed.  Where  there 
is  not  an  excess  of  water  in  the  soil,  this  kind  of 
manure  produces  a  very  luxuriant  and  rapid 
growth,  as  well  as  good  yield.  A  similar  method 
is  sometimes  practised  with  barn-yard  manure, 
the  eartli  being  turned  from  the  rows  as  pre¬ 
viously  directed,  a  small  shovelful  of  manure  is 
placed  on  each  side  of  every  hill  and  covered. 
The  manner  of  distributing  this  kind  of  manure 
is,  to  drive  a  loaded  wagon  astride  of  one  row, 
so  that  two  hands  can  each  apply  the  manure 
to  two  or  three  rows  on  each  side.  When  turn¬ 
ing  a  wagon  around  over  the  young  corn,  if  a 
wheel  is  liable  to  run  directly  on  a  hill,  place 
short  pieces  of  plank  or  rails  on  each  side  of  it, 
which  will  lift  the  wagon  over  without  injuring 
the  corn.  Lime,  gypsum,  ashes,  guano,  hen 
manure,  or  any  other  similar  materials  may 
often  be  very  profitably  applied,  at  the  first  hoe¬ 
ing.  They  should  always  be  sprinkled  over  an 
area  of  several  inches  in  diameter,  all  around 
the  hill,  and  covered  and  mingled  with  the  earth 
in  hoeing.  Guano,  or  strong  hen  manure,  if  ap¬ 
plied  in  this  manner,  will  never  work  injury  to 
the  young  plants,  unless  they  come  in  direct  con¬ 
tact  with  them,  or  an  inordinate  quantity  be  used. 


To  Pitcli  Hay  into  a  Window  with  a 
Horse-Fork. 

To  bo  able  to  use  the  horse-fork  in  pitching 
hay  into  a  window,  set  a  pole,  in  front,  as  high 
as  the  top  of  the  window,  and  distant  the  width 
of  a  load  of  hay — say  14  feet.  Fasten  a  pulley 
at  the  top  of  the  pole,  and  one  at  the  bottom  of 


it.  Nail  on  two  braces,  or  stay-pieces,  from  the 
top  to  the  side  of  the  building,  to  keep  the  post 
erect  and  firm.  Now  let  the  rope  pass  around 
the  pulley,  at  the  bottom  of  the  post,  thence 
over  the  pulley  at  the  top,  thence  under  a  pulley 
at  the  bail  of  the  fork,  thence  in  at  the  window 
and  over  a  pulley  at  the  opposite  end  of  the 
loft,  thence  back  to  the  bail  of  the  fork,  where 
it  is  made  fast.  The  fork,  with  its  load,  will 
ris&as  high  as  the  window,  and  then  move  off 
horizontally,  to  the  other  side,  or  end  of  the  loft ; 
or  its  load  may  be  dropped  at  pleasure.  It 
will  make  no  difierence  -where  the  inside  pulley 
iSj.  if  it.be  only  placed  higher  than  the  window, 
ami  several  feet  directly  back  from  it,  so  that  the 
rope  will  not  draw  into  one  corner.  When  the 
window  is  in  the  end  of  a  barn,  let  the  pulley 
in  the  barn  bn  attached  as-far  back  as  it  can  be 
conveniently,  and  considerably  higher  than  the 
top  of  the?  windowi;  Windows  should  be  not 
less  than  4^  feet  square,  in  order  to  admit  a 
Lorkful  freely.  Let  these  directions  be  followed 
out  to  the  letter,  and  any  one  can  put  up  this 
arrangement  correctly,  even  if  he  has  never 
seen  it  done  before.  We  once  put  up  a  horse- 
fork  rigging,  with  which  hay  was  carried  hori¬ 
zontally  20  feet,  and  then  after  rising  10  feet 
over  a  beam,  was  carried  onward  40  feet  further! 

Castration  of  Calves  and  Colts. 


Every  farmer  who  raises  domestic  animals 
ought  to  understand  what  effect  castration  of  a 
young  male  animal  is  likely  to  have  on  the  prop¬ 
er  development  of  certain  good  points,  as  well 
as  what  the  effect  will  be  on  other  points  if  he 
is- not  castrated.  By  performing  this  operation 
at  a  certain  period,  or  by  delaying  it  for  a  few 
months,  or  a  year  or  more,  results  can  be  se¬ 
cured  in  developing  a  good  form  and  sym¬ 
metry  in  some  animals,  which  never  could  be 
effected  by  any  other  means.  Take  for  exam¬ 
ple  a  bull  calf  having  a  large  head  and  neck, 
and  deeper  and  heavier  forward  than  behind, 
in  short,  bull-shaped :  if  altered  when  only  a 
few  weeks  old,  as  he  grows  he  will  retain  in  a 
measure  the  same  form,  looking  like  a  so-called 
stag.  On  the  contrar}?,  if  castrated  when  only 
a  few  days  old,  his  hind-quarters  will  be  much 
better  developed;  and  his  head,  neck,  and 
shoulders  will  be  in  much  better  proportion  to 
the  other  parts  of  his  body,  as  an  ox’s  should  be. 
On  the  contrary,  if  a  bull  calf  be  very  broad  and 
heavy  behind,  and  have  a  cow’s  head  and  neck, 
castration  should  be  deferred  for  several  months, 
in  case  he  is  to  be  raised  for  the  yoke.  It 
is  O';  well-established  rule,  that  the  earlier  a 
calf  is  castrated,  the  better  will  be  the  beef; 
while  the  longer  he  is  allowed  to  go,  the  coarser 
it  will  be,  and  often  the  worse  his  form. 

Farmers  do  no, t  generally  pay  sufficient  regard 
to  the  fact,  that  the.-  time  of  gelding  the  colt 
makes  a  great  difference  in  the  shape  of  the  ma¬ 
ture,  horse.-  The  usual  time  is  when  the  colts 
are  a  year  old,  without  reference  to  their  points. 
There  are  at  least  some  views,  in  which  all  good 
horsemen  agree,  as  to  the  effects  on  the  develop¬ 
ment  of  certain  points  of  the  colt,  as  well  as 
on  \\\s,  disposition.  In  some  special  cases  the 
castration  of  colts-  should  be  deferred  until 
they  are  three  years  old ;  while  others  should 
be  gelded  at  that  particular  period  in  their 
growth,  which  will  favor  the  more  perfect  de¬ 
velopment  of  certain  points  of  form  and  sym¬ 
metry.  This  occurs  sometimes  at  the  age  of  a 
few  months,  a  year,  two  years,  or  more.  It  is 
quite  difficult  to  lay  down  practical  directions 
on  this .  point.  To  be  able  to  decide  when  a 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


179 


colt  should  be  castrated,  requires  observation 
on  the  subject  for  many  years. 

Gelding  renders  colts  heavier  behind,  and 
narrower  and  lighter  forward.  When  a  colt  is 
so  fearless  and  willful  that  there  arc  fears  of  his 
becoming  vicious,  immediate  castration  will 
check  the  farther  development  of  such  disposi¬ 
tion.  When  a  colt  is  very  narrow  across  the 
breast,  and  has  a  small  neck  and  head,  unless 
he  manifest  a  very  refractory  disposition,  it  may 
be  w'ell  to  defer  gelding  until  he  is  even  three 
years  old,  in  order  to  improve  his  form  and 
style.  Colts  usually  make  faster  travellers  for 
short  distances,  if  gelded  when  not  more  than  a 
year  old,  than  if  it  be  deferred ;  but  their  pow¬ 
ers  of  endurance  are  less!  Stallions  that  have 
been  kept  for  service  for  several  years,  and  then 
altered,  are  rendered  much  slower  in  gait ;  and 
those  that  were  difScult  to  manage,  are  usually 
rendered  much  more  tractable.  Entire  horses  are 
usually  fearless,  and  not  apt  to  be  shy  at  rust¬ 
ling  sounds  or  strange  objects;  but  colts  that  are 
gelded  very  young,  if  their  dams  shy  at  un¬ 
familiar  objects,  will  be  liable  to  lack  courage, 
and  be  always  ready  to  sheer  off  at  the  sight  of 
black  stumps  aud  such  things,  or  to  rnr  "way 
whenever  any  part  of  the  harness  or  carriage  be¬ 
comes  deranged,  which  tendency  can  rarely  be 
counteracted,  except  by  the  most  careful  and 
patient  training.  Colts  should  never  be  castrat¬ 
ed  when  poor  or  sickly,  nor  in  stormy  weather, 
unless  they  are  kept  in  a  comfortable  stable 
until  they  are  entirely  healed,  as  danger  of 
inflammation  arises  from  being  exposed  to  cold 
storms  and  chilling  winds.  Many  times  when 
the  wound  appears  nearly  healed,  a  colt  will 
swell  up  and  die,  in  spite  of  all  efforts  to  save 
him.  Farmers  cannot  be  too  careful  in  keep¬ 
keeping  horses,  after  castration,  in  warm  stables. 


Scuffle  Hoes,  Hoeing,  and  Carrots. 


A  Rhode  Island  correspondent  is  enthusiastic 
on  Scuffle  Hoes,  and  inspired  by  the  article  on 
page  51  (February),  sends  to  the  American  Ag¬ 
riculturist  a  long  and  interesting  letter  on  the 
subject,  from  which  we  condense  the  following : 

“I  have  several  Scuffle  Hoes  in  running  or¬ 
der — all  handled  with  old  rakestales.  The  nar¬ 
rowest,  which  I  use  but  little,  is  7  inches  long. 
In  early  spring  and  after  rains,  we  run  them  9 
inches,  and  for  general  use,  in  good  hoeing 
weather,  we  use  four  14  inch  hoes.  In  my  work, 
which  is  more  gardening  than  farming,  they 
saved  more  money  last  year  than  a  mowing, 
machine  would  upon  50  tons  of  hay.  But  any 
one  with  a  garden  needs  a  set  of  Scuffle  Hoes. 
I  use  them  upon  gravel  walks  and  roads,  plan¬ 
tations  of  trees  and  shrubs,  and  all  sorts  of  gar¬ 
den  crops.  In  field  root  crops,  such  as  carrots, 
beets,  turnips,  onions,  and  parsnips,  they  are  in¬ 
valuable,  as  also  to  cut  up  weeds  among  young 
corn  and  potatoes.  Among  carrots  and  man¬ 
golds  last  year,  I  had  no  ‘  thumb  and  finger 
work,’  except  thinning  mangolds.  Soil  sandy, 
with  plenty  of  gravel,  pebbles  and  cobble  stone 
even  after  a  pretty  close  picking..  With  this 
hoe  one  can  loosen  the  surface,  cut  up  weeds, 
and  give  a  uniform  crumbly  appearance  to  the 
soil — far  better  looking  to  my  eye  than  if  work¬ 
ed  with  a  rake,  and  more  lasting,  and  leave  no 
foot  track  upon  the  ground,  the  pressure  of  the 
foot  being,  as  every  observant  gardener  knows, 
all  that  many  weeds  need  to  plant  them  again. 
The  power  is  applied  to  the  object  resisting  the 
edge  of  the  hoe — a  root  of  grass,  or  bit  of  ma¬ 
nure,  com  stalk,  or  cobble  stone— from 


the  shoulder.  My  handles  are  about  seven  feet 
long.  In  light  hoeing  where  the  ground  has 
been  properly  plowed  and  harrowed,  I  grasp  the 
end  of  the  handle  (which  should  be  a  little  en¬ 
larged)  in  the  hollow  of  my  right  hand,  and  do 
the  cutting  almost  entirely /rom  me.  The  edge 
toward  me,  in  the  short  and  quick  succession  of 
from  3  to  6-inch  thrusts,  necessary  to  complete 
a  stroke,  is  chieffy  useful  in  breaking  the  surface 
and  jerking  the  weed-roots  to  the  sun  and  air. 

If  the  edge  is  hung  properly  to  cut  with  a  mo¬ 
tion /rom  the  body,  it  will  be  necessary  to  stoop 
to  bring  the'near  edge  to  bear  upon  the  ground 
for  the  drawing  cuts.  These  tools  can  be 
used  either  walking  backward  or  forward.  In 
the  garden,  I  often  walk  backward ;  in  the  field 
forward,  making  a  succession  of  short  thrusts. 
In  dressing  a  walk,  or  a  plantation  of  shrubs 
and  trees,  beaten  down  hard  by  rains,  it  will  be 
found  convenient  to  shorten  the  hold  upon  the 
hoe  handle,  letting  the  end  play  under  the  arm 
— a  change  which  often  gives  ease  and  rest — as 
also  does  changing  hands  entirely. 

The  early  clearing  of  carrots  and  other  small 
plants  is  apt  to  be  troublesome.  I  always  en¬ 
deavor  to  plow  early — generally,  in  the  field,  to 
plow  twice — which  gives  me  a  chance  to  kill 
one  or  two  crops  of  weeds.  The  single  form  of 
Share’s  Coulter  Harrow  is  a  most  admirable 
tool  for  ■working  the  surface  and  killing  weeds 
upon  a  large  scale.  The  surface  should  be  rich, 
too,  and  the  seed  put  in  as  late  as  will  do,  and 
immediately  after  a  working  of  the  ground.  If 
the  seed-barrow  is  run  crosswise  of  the  harrow 
marks,  or  if  the  ground  is  bushed,  the  barrow 
will  leave  a  mark  easily  seen  before  and  after 
the  plants  are  up.  I  start  the  Scuffle  Hoe  when 
carrots  are  about  half  up.  The  hoe  can  be  run 
in  a  careless  manner  through  between  the  rows, 
leaving  a  strip  three  or  four  inches  wide  con¬ 
taining  the  drill  mark — in  reality  leaving  all  the 
real  work  yet  to  be  done.  I  know  of  no  time 
■u’hen  weeds  can  be  destroyed  so  easily  as  when 
they  are  still  in  the  seed  leaf— or  better  yet,  like 
threads  of  silk,  before  they  get  to  the  surface. 

I  think  there  is,  easily  enough,  a  difference  of 
$10  per  acre  of  carrots,  between  an  early  attack 
upon  weeds  and  a  late  one.  I  plant  some  18, 
20,  or  22  inches  apart,  and  at  the  first  hoeing 
take  my  position  between  the  outside  and  second 
drill,  reaching  over  a  little  and  hoeing  the  out¬ 
side  of  the  outside  drill,  running  my  hoe  quite 
shoal,  with  short,  quick  strokes,  and  cutting  as 
close  to  the  drill  as  possible,  If  the  row  is  a 
long  one,  I  have  no  doubt  but  the  position  and 
W'ork  will  be  tiresome,  but  turning  at  the  end 
gives  an  entirely  new  position — and  the  work¬ 
man  can  change  hands  if  he  likes — walking 
back  in  the  same  alley,  but  close  to  the  second 
row,  and  hoeing  the  inside  of  the  first — thus 
going  round  each  row  and  leaving  no  tracks 
but  the  ‘  wake  ’  of  the  hoe.  If  the  ground  is  in 
fair  condition,  what  with  the  close  work  and 
the  little  roll  of  light  earth  moved  by  the  side 
of  the  hoe,  the  ground  up  to  the  drill  will  look 
as  if  it  had  been  entirely  worked.  The  hoe 
turned  up  corner-wise  will  pick  a  weed  out  of 
the  drill  or  knock  the  soil  from  a  tuft  of  grass 
or  weeds  very  deftly.  By  this  process  the  space 
between  the  drill-marks  which  is  of  very  little 
importance  will  be  worked  doubly  in  parts — 
allowing  all  the  attention  to  be  concentrated 
upon  the  drill  and  the  side  of  the  hoe. 

The  dextrous  use  of  an  ordinary  hoe  is  a  mat¬ 
ter  of  early  training  and  use,  which  the  mass  of 
our  laborers  never  get.  It  is  quite  as  difficult 
to  learn  as  the  use  of  a  scythe.  The  use  of  the 
Scuffle  hoe  can  be  far  more  readily  learned,  and  J 


if  it  become  rightly  understood  and  appreci¬ 
ated,  all  the  tribes  of  wheel  hoes  and  hand 
cultivators  will  be  sold  for  old  iron.” 

Pure  Water— Health  of  Stock. 


Our  con’espondent,  “N.  8.  T.,”  Essex  Co., 
Mass.,  in  the  following  communication,  directs 
the  attention  of  the  readers  of  the.  Agrmilturist 
to  an  important  subject.  Foul  water  is  the  fruit¬ 
ful  source  of  unthrift  and  disease  in  animals, 
besides, 'it  is  almost  constantly  operating,  and  in 
time  will  produce  effects  not  perceptible  at  first. 

“  That  farmer  who  has  provided  for  his  barn¬ 
yard  a  never  fiiiling  supply  of  good  water,  and 
an  arrangement  by  which  it  is  brought  into  the 
troughs  or  tubs  without  pumping  or  drawing, 
has  a  convenience,  the  value  of  which  is  not 
likely  to  be  over-estimated  ;  but  it  is  a  matter  of 
no  small  importance  that  it  be  given  to  the  stock 
fresh  and  pure.  Because  animals  drink  from  a 
filthy  trough  or  a  muddy  and  stagnant  pool  with 
apparent  relish,  it  does  not  follow  that  their 
sense  of  taste  is  of  a  low  order  and  can  not  ap¬ 
preciate  good  feeding.  Necessity  too  often  com¬ 
pels  them  to  drink  anywhere,  and  whatever  they 
can  find.  Long  continued  habit  deadens  or  per¬ 
verts  the  taste.  But  animals  with  unvitiated 
taste  left  free  to  choose  for  themselves,  will  find 
the  purest  water  as  quickly  as  the  sweetest 
grass ;  especially  is  this  true  of  the  horse.  Some 
are  naturally  very  fastidious  about  both  food 
and  drink,  and  they  often  suffer  from  thirst 
rather  than  drink  from  a  vessel  or  at  a  well  they 
dislike.  Some  men  entrusted  with  the  care  of 
stock,  seeing  a  horse  tasting  and  sipping,  or 
playing,  as  they  imagine,  say  he  is  not  dry,  or 
is  whimsical,  and  bring  him  back  to  his  stall, 
there  to  remain  till  thirst  compels  him  to  drink. 
Thus  a  real  cruelty  is  ignorantly  practised 
against  a  dumb  beast,  when  a  few  moments’  at¬ 
tention  would  discover  and  remove  the  trouble. 
Fresh,  pure  ■u'ator  means  more  than  simply 
water  free  from  sticks,  dirt,  or  substances  which 
are  readily  detected  by  the  eye.  Water  exposed 
in  shallow  vessels  to  the  atmosphere  during  warm 
weather,  quickly  loses  its  fresh  and  sweet 
taste.  Should  it  remain  in  a  stable  twenty  four 
hours,  it  becomes  undrinkable  from  having  ab¬ 
sorbed  the  impurities  of  the  air.  Ammonia, 
carbonic  acid,  and  all  the  gases  escaping  in  the 
stable  are  absorbed  rapidly  and  in  large  quanti¬ 
ties  by  water.  During  hot  weather  tliese  gases 
are  always  largely  present,  even  in  well  regu¬ 
lated  barns,  and  a  tub  of  water  exposed  to  the 
air  in  the  stable  yard,  or  cellar,  soon  becomes 
charged  with  them,  and  is  unfit  for  any  animal 
to  drink.  Besides  being  of  a  disagreeable  taste, 
it  becomes  slightly  aperient. 

“  A  cover  that  fits  closely  to  the  trough  or  tub 
is  of  some  service  in  keeping  out  dust  and  dirt, 
and  preventing  contact  with  impure  air,  but  it  is 
impossible  to  keep  water  in  shallow  vessels 
about  a  barnyard  and  have  it  absolutely  pure. 
The  safest  plan  of  ensuring  purity  is  to  draw 
from  the  fountain  head  as  often  as  wanted  aud 
when  the  animals  have  drunk,  throw  the  re¬ 
mainder  away.  It  is  a  common  practice  in  sum¬ 
mer  to  keep  'U'ater  in  the  trough  to  prevent  its 
drying  and  falling  into  pieces.  The  more  shal¬ 
low  a  trough  is  made  the  less  liable  it  is  to  dry 
up;  but  it  is  better  to  lose  one  occasionally 
than  always  give  impure  water  to  the  stock. 
Scrupulous  cleanliness  in  the  care  of  all  the  ar¬ 
rangements  for  furnishing  water  commends  it¬ 
self  to  every  thinking  man  who  is  the  owner 
and  lover  of  animals,  in  proportion  as  the  ill 
efi’ects  of  neglecting  them  are  understood.” 


180 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[June, 


A  Good  Well  Curb  and  Friction  Brake. 

A  great  deal  of  time  and  labor  are  saved  in  the 
aggregate  by  having  a  convenient  way  of  draw¬ 
ing  water.  In  deep  wells,  iron-bound  oaken 
buckets  are  used,  and  will  continue  to  furnish  the 
most  economical  and  agreeable  way  of  getting 
the  water,  and  it  is  very  important  to  be  able  to 
let  the  bucket  down  into  such  a  well  rapidly 
and  safely.  A  correspondent  in  West  Edmes- 
ton,  Otsego  Co.,  N.  Y.,  furnished  a  description 
and  drawing  of  Brown’s  Friction  Brake.  It  is 
a  lever,  made  of  hard  wood,  2k  feet  long, 
inches  thick,  and  6  inches  wide,  shaped  as  seen 
in  the  engraving.  One  end  is  shaved  down  for 
a  handle,  and  near  the  other  a  circular  section 
is  cut  out,  which  is  the  place  that  bears  against 
the  windlass.  It  is  hung  on  a  strong  pin, 
braced  by  iron  rods,  and  in  such  a  way  that 
the  broad  end  shall  fall  quickly  away  from 
the  windlass  when  the  hand  is  taken  off. 

The  well  curb  is  made  2  feet  wide,  3  long,  and 
3  high,  boarded  up  two  feet.  The  posts  are  2 
inches  square,  and  the  end  ones  framed  together 
by  strong  cross-pieces,  on  which  the  windlass, 
or  roller  rests,  having  its  bearing  about  8  inches 
from  the  back  ends.  The  crank,  gudgeons  rat¬ 
chet,  etc.,  do  not  differ  from  those  of  ordinary  well 
curbs.  Tlie  bucket  is  suspended  by  two  ropes, 
the  effect  of  which  is  to  cause  it  to  come  up 
with  the  same  side  to  the  front  every  time.  If 
on  this  front  edge  of  the  bucket  a  little  iron 
horn,  or  spur,  be  placed,  and  a  bail  of  stout 
wire  be  fixed  upon  the  curb,  so  as  to  catch  in 
the  spur  when  it  comes  up,  the  bucket  may  be 
emptied  easily  into  the  spout  -without  the  neces- 
•sity  of  handling  it  at  all.  (Our  artist  has  repre¬ 
sented  the  bucket  too  small,  and  the  horn  too 
large  in  proportion.) 

A  very  convenient  kind  of  bucket  is  that 
made  with  a  cast-iron  bottom,  in  which  there  is 
a  valve,  which  opens  and  allows  the  bucket  to 
fill  instantly,  as  soon  as  it  reaches  the  water. 

- - - ■  - - 

The  Art  of  Shearing  Sheep. 


It  is  essential  to  good  shearing  to  cut  the 
wool  but  once,  to  shear  smoothly  and  very 
close,  to  keep  the  fleeces  whole,  and  to  avoid 
cutting  the  sheep.  When  a  shearer  does  not 
shear  smoothly,  but  cuts  a  portion  of  the  wool 
two  or  three  times,  there  is  not  only  a  loss  in 
the  weight  of  the  fleece,  or  if  the  clippings  be 
included  in  the  fleece,  a  loss  in  its  value  to  the 
manufacturer,  but  much  time  is  consumed  in 
making  the  sheep  look  smooth.  When  the 
fleeces  are  torn  to  pieces  by  unskillfhl  handling 
or  the  floundering  of  the  sheep,  it  is  impossible 
to  do  them  up  neatly  and  show  the  wool  to  ad¬ 
vantage.  The  chief  difficulty  in  shearing  sheep 


arises  from  their  struggling.  To  prevent  this, 
some  tie  their  legs ;  but  this  practice  is  quite 
objectionable,  and  no  good  shearer  will  adopt 
it.  Sheep  will  kick  and  flounder  but  little  if 
they  be  managed  gently  and  carefully.  Every 
shearer  should  have  a  mattress  of  straw,  at  least 
five  feet  square,  and  so  thick  that  his  knees  will 
not  feel  the  floor  while  shearing  a  sheep.  The 
object  of  the  mattress  is  also  to  make  it  easier 
for  the  sheep.  Laid  on  a  hard  floor  sheep  will 
make  desperate  efforts  to  gain  their  natural  po¬ 
sition,  and  if  jammed  down  violently  on  the  floor, 
or  boxed,  or  held  uncomfortably  beneath  the 
knees,  as  they  often  are  by  unskillful  shearers, 
instead  of  keeping  quiet  they  flounder  and 
kick  worse  and  worse.  Placed  on  a  mattrass, 
their  position  is  comparatively  easy;  and  if 
handled  gently,  the  fleeces  will  be  torn  but  lit¬ 
tle.  The  sheep  pen  should  be  well  littered  with 
straw  to  prevent  carrying  much  dirt  on  the 
shearing  floor ;  and  sheep  always  shear  better 
if  they  are  full  and  round  than  when  empty. 
Even  expert  shearers  are  very  liable  to  cut  the 
skin  of  poor  thin  sheep.  No  man  can  shear  a 
sheep  well,  unless  he  have  good  shears  and  keep 
them  in  good  cutting  order.  See  remarks  on 
shears  under  another  head. 

Grinding  Shears— Sheep-Shears. 


The  accompanying  illustration  represents  a 
transverse  section  of  a  grindstone,  Q,  and  one 
of  the  blades  of  a  pair  of  shears  with  the  edge 
resting  on  the  periphery  of  the  grindstone  at  the 
proper  angle  for  grinding  sheep-shears,  or  tail¬ 
or’s  shears.  The  “  basil,”  or  angle  at  which  the 

cutting  edge 
is  ground,  va¬ 
ries  in  shears 
for  different 
purposes. 
When  shears 
are  designed 
for  cutting  tin, 
sheet  .iron, 
copper,or  any 
other  metal, 
grind  the  ba¬ 
sil  at  a  more 
obtuse  angle 
than  is  here 
represented, 
in  fact,  nearly  at  a  right  angle  to  the  face  (F,). 
When  the  basil  is  ground  too  beveling,  the  edge 
of  the  shears  is  so  thin  that  the  steel  will  crumble 
off,  or  bend  over,  and  thus  effectually  prevent 
the  shears  holding  a  good  keen  cutting  edge. 

The  correct  way  to  grind  shears  is  to  hold  the 
blades  directly  across  the  face  of  the  grind¬ 
stone,  with  the  face  of  the  blade  (FO  turned 
from  the  operator,  while  the  stone  ((?)  revolves 
toward  him.  Thus  the  steel  is  swept  clear  from 
the  cutting  edge ;  and  the  operator  can  always 
see  at  a  glance  when  the  blade  is  ground  just 
enough.  On  the  contrary,  when  the  stone  re¬ 
volves  in  the  reverse  direction,  a  thin  curl  of 
steel  will  gather  on  the  cutting  edge,  unless  the 
shears  are  tempered  highly,  and  are  too  hard  to 
retain  a  good  edge.  This  will  be  likely  to  de¬ 
ceive  the  operator  who  will  probably  grind 
away  even  after  the  blade  has  been  ground 
enough.  This  is  equally  true  in  grinding  edge 
tools  of  every  description.  The  grindstone 
should  run  very  true,  in  order  to  grind  shears 
well,  and  the  cutting  edge  should  be  afterward 
whetted  on  an  oil-stone  of  very  fine  grit.  Shears 
should  never  be  ground  on  the  face.  Always 
hold  the  blade  to  be  jtiround  finniy  and  at  Iho 


angle  represented.  When  the  blades  are  ground 
on  a  stone  of  coarse  grit,  and  are  not  held  firm¬ 
ly,  but  allowed  to  rock  back  and  forth,  it  will 
be  impossible  to  grind  them  so  that  they  will 
cut  well.  It  requires  much  more  skill  to  put 
sheep  shears  in  order,  than  to  use  them,  and 
without  sharp  shears,  no  man  can  shear  a  sheep 
in  a  workmanlike  manner.  Another  important 
consideration  in  sharpening  sheep-shears  is, 
to  grind  the  points  of  the  blades  pointed,  but 
a  little  rounded  and  smooth,  so  that  they  will  en¬ 
ter  the  wool  readily,  but  will  not  jnick  the  sheep, 
or  scratch  the  skin  as  they  are  thrust  forward. 


How  to  .Hold  a  Sheep  for  Shearing. 

Throw  the  right  arm  over  the  sheep,  and 
grasping  the  brisket  with  the  hand,  raise  it  from 
the  floor;  remove  all  litter  from  the  feet;  then 
with  the  left  hand  take  hold  of  one  hind  leg 
above  the  gambrel  joint,  and  place  the  sheep 


HOW  TO  HOLD  SHEEP-SHEARS. 


carefully  on  the  mattress,  in  a  sitting  posture, 
resting  against  the  shearer.  Raise  the  forelegs 
putting  them  under  the  left  arm,  and  shear  the 
brisket  downward,  dividing  the  wool  in  the 
middle,  as  it  is  sheared.  Then  elevate  the  head 
and  shear  the  under  jaw,  and  a  narrow  strip 
along  the  underside  of  the  neck  to  the  brisket. 
Now,  stand  in  front  of  the  sheep,  and  begin  at 
its  foretop,  and  continue  to  shear  from  right  to 
left,  until  the  neck  is  sheared.  Then,  step  be¬ 
hind  the  sheep,  letting  it  lean  against  your 
knees,  and  shear  the  forelegs.  Now,  drop  on 
one  knee  before  the  sheep,  and  let  its  body  rest 
against  your  other  leg  until  you  have  sheared 
one  side,  and  one  hind  leg.  Then  change  your 
position  by  resting  on  the  other  knee,  while  the 
position  of  the  sheep  is  reversed,  and  shear  the 
other  side.  Some  shearers  prefer  to  shear  direct¬ 
ly  around  the  body  of  the  sheep,  and  finish  at 
the  tail.  Both  ways  have  their  advocates 
among  good  shearers,  and  beginners  may  adopt 
the  one  that  suits  them  best. 

The  shears  should  always  be  placed  flat 
against  the  side  of  the  sheep,  so  that  the  points 
and  heels  of  the  blade  will  cut  equally  close 
to  the  skin.  Never  push  the  wool  back,  or  take 
hold  of  it  with  the  other  hand  while  shearing, 
as  you  can  not  shear  so  evenly,  and  will  be  more 
liable  to  cut  the  sheep.  The  shearer  may  often 
use  one  hand  to  advantage  in  crowding  or 
drawing  the  skin  in  such  a  manner  as  to 
make  a  smooth  surface  where  the  shears  are 
about  to  cut.  Every  shearer  should  have  two 
pairs  of  shears ;  one  to  cut  the  hard,  gritty  locks 
and  another  for  shearing  the  clean  wool.  Some 
shearers  can  shear  more  advantageously  and 
easier  by  having  a  table  about  18  inches  high 
covered  with  a  mattress.  Beginners  should  im¬ 
itate  the  manipulations  of  expert  shearers,  and 
observe  closely  how  they  hold  their  sheep,  their 
shears,  etc.  The  correct  way  to  hold  a  pair  of 
shears  is,  to  place  the  thumb  lengthwise  on  the 
back  of  one  of  the  blades,  as  in  the  engraving. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST 


181 


SUBSOIL  PLOW. 


Fleece-folding  Table. 


A  lot  of  wool  wejl  folded  and  neatly  tied  up, 
all  the  fleeces  being  of  about  the  same  size  and 
shape,  has  a  great  advantage  in  market  over 
that  which  is  carelessly  and  irregularly  done 
up.  To  secure  this  uniformity  and  neatness, 
folding  tables,  or  wool-boxes,  are  used,  and  are, 
in  fact,  indispensable.  We  present  below  a  plan 
for  one  forwarded  to  the  American  Agricultur¬ 
ist,  by  “  J.  C.  V.,”  of  Orleans  Co.,  N.  Y.,  “in 
the  hope  that  it  may  be  of  use  to  some  of  its 
readers,”  as  it  doubtless  will  be.  He  thus  de¬ 
scribes  it :  “  It  is  made  of  3  boards,  6  feet  long, 
the  middle  one  8  inches  wide,  and  the  others 
12  inches.  The  middle  board  is  sawed  into  4 
pieces,  12, 8, 12,  and  40  inches  long  respectively, 
which  are  connected  together,  and  with  the 
sides,  by  6  pairs  of  hinges  as  shown  in  the  en¬ 
graving.  When  used,  the  twine,  in  6  pieces,  is 


FLEECE-FOLDING  TABLE. 

drawn  between  the  notches  (m)  in  the  sides  and 
end  pieces  {A,  G,  E,  and  F,) ;  then  the  fleece  is 
laid  on  the  table,  the  shoulders  being  placed  on 
the  centre  piece  {B).  The  sides  of  the  fleece 
are  then  folded  in,  and  the  side  pieces  {E,  and  F^ 
raised  and  made  fast  in  a  perpendicular  posi¬ 
tion  by  the  hook  (g)  and  staple  {Ti).  Next  com¬ 
mence  at  the  tail  end  and  roll  up  the  fleece 
without  slipping  it ;  then  raise  up  the  piece  (7, 
which  will  be  held  upright  by  the  steel  springs 
(i,  i,),  on  the  sides,  then  raise  the  piece  A.  [It 
strikes  us  that  this  should  be  held  in  a 'perpen¬ 
dicular  position  by  springs  or  pins,  but  this  is 
not  specified  by  our  correspondent]  Now  take 
two  small  round  levers,  and  putting  them  into 
the  holes  in  A,  press  them  down  into  the  slots 
in  G,  and  fasten  them  down  by  putting  a  pin 
through  holes  in  the  edges  at  convenient  places. 
The  fleece  may  now  be  tied ;  then  unhook  the 
sides  and  the  box  falls  down,  leaving  the  fleece 
as  hard  as  a  cheese  and  as  white  as  a  snow¬ 
ball.  One  man  will  easily  do  up  the  wool  as 
fast  as  three  or  four  will  shear.” 


The  Subsoil  Plow. 


The  accompanying  figure  represents  an  im¬ 
plement  called  the  “Lifting  Sub-soil  Plow.” 
The  standard  consists  of  a  flat  piece  of  iron 
an  inch  or  more  in  thickness,  with  two  heads 
on  the  upper  part,  by  which  it  is  bolted  to  the 
underside  of  the  beam.  The  point  or  share 
is  made  either  with  a  wing  on  both  sides,  like 
a  spear  placed  flat  on  the  ground,  or  with  the 
wing  only  on  one  side.  On  one  or  on  each 
side  of  the  standard  there  is  an  adjustable  flange 
about  three  inches  wide,  over  which  the  soil  rises 
and  drops  back  crumbled  into  the  bottom  of  the 
furrow.  The  share  and  these  flanges  form  an  in¬ 
clined  plane.  If  it  be  desirable  to  elevate  the 
soil  much  or  only  a  little,  the  rear  ends  of  the 
flanges  may  be  adjusted  to  the  desired  hight  by 
means  of  bolts  passing  through  the  standard. 
The  higher  the  rear  ends  of  the  flanges,  the  hard¬ 


er  a  plow  will  draw,  and  the  more  thoroughly 
it  will  pulverize  the  soil.  A  draft  rod  and  dial 
clevis  attached  to  the  beam,  enable  the  plow¬ 
man  to  so  adjust  it  as  to  run  directly  in  the 
furrow  made  by  the  common  plow,  thus  break¬ 
ing  up  the  compact  subsoil,  and  leaving  it  in 
the  furrow.  When  a  farmer  has  but  one  team, 
he  plows  one  furrow  round  the  field  or  land, 
and  then  hitching  to  the  subsoil  plow  goes 
round  again  in  the  same  track.  In  order  to  pul¬ 
verize  the  subsoil  very  thoroughly,  it  is  necessa¬ 
ry  to  cut  narrow  furrow  slices,  and  to  use  the 
subsoil  plow  when  the  ground  is  cross-plowed 
as  well  as  at  the  first  plowing.  Subsoiling  thus 
for  two  or  three  years,  the  ground  will  be  pretty 
well  pulverized  to  the  full  depth  the  subsoil 
plow  reaches.  When  the  plow  cuts  wide  fui*- 
row  slices  the  subsoil  plow  may  be  run  twice  in 
the  furrow.  When  this  is  not  done,  and  especi¬ 
ally  if  the  field  be  subsoiled  only  one  way,  the 
subsoil  will  not  be  more  than  one  third  or  one 
half  broken  up.  A  span  of  horses,  or  yoke  of 
oxen  will  draw  a  two-horse  subsoil  plow  ten  to 
fourteen  inches  deeper  than  the  first  cut  through 
a  pretty  compact  subsoil.  When  run  deeper  the 
draft  increases  very  rapidly,  and  the  pulveriza¬ 
tion  is  not  so  complete.  Two  or  three  spans  of 
horses  or  yokes  of  oxen  are  usually  required  if 
the  subsoil  plow  be  put  down  18  or  20  inches 
deep,  as  is  not  unfrequently  done  in  preparing 
ground  fbr  orchards,  vineyards,  hop-yards,  etc. 


Subsoiling  Wet  Ground. 


When  any  kind  of  subsoil  is  not  dry  enough 
to  crumble  readily,  running  the  subsoil  plow 
through  it  will  have  little  good  efiect,  because 
it  is  pressed  by  the  passage  of  the  plow  into  a 
smaller  compass,  and  as  it  does  not  crumble, 
it  settles  back  very  much  to  its  former  bed,  oc¬ 
cupies  less  space,  and,  when  the  surface  water 
is  dried  out,  it  becomes  more  compact  than 
it  was  before  the  plow  disturbed  it.  If  the 
land  be  thoroughly  underdrained,  before  the 
subsoil  is  broken  up,  it  will  be  crumbled  and 
lightened  up.  Months  must  pass  before  the 
lumps  will  wash  down  so  as  to  materially  fill 
the  interstices,  and  the  subsoil  will  not  become 
so  compact  in  several  years  as  it  was  before 
subsoiling.  It  is,  therefore,  of  little  or  no  use 
to  subsoil  wet,  heavy  soils,  before  they  have 
been  well  underdrained.  For  this  reason, 
many  farmers,  on  soil  which  is  exceedingly 
wet,  with  the  subsoil  compact  and  retentive, 
have  experimented  with  and  condemned  the 
subsoil  plow.  We  have  known  subsoiling  to 
be  done  when  the  water  would  be  driven  along 
in  the  furrows  before  the  plow,  by  the  turning 
over  of  the  furrow  slice.  The  consequence  was 
that  the  more  the  subsoil  was  worked,  the 
harder  and  more  compact  it  became,  as  soon  as 
the  water  had  dried  away,  and  the  more  diffi¬ 
cult  it  was  for  roots  of  plants  to  spread  in  it. 
As  a  natural  consequence,  such  poor  results 
had  a  tendency  to  bring  subsoiling  into  disre¬ 
pute.  If  the  wet  and  heavy  soils  be  well 


underdrained,  and  sub¬ 
soiled  when  just,  dry 
enough  to  crumble, 
good  results  will  invari¬ 
ably  follow,  if  the  work 
be  thoroughly  done. 
Tills  process  on  many 
faiTiis  would  add  several 
acres  of  ground  avail¬ 
able  for  increase  of  crops 
as  certainly  and  with 
less  cost  than  buying 
additional  land.  Better  grow  80  bushels  of 
corn  on  one  acre,  than  to  plant  and  cultivate 
one  and  a  half  acres  for  the  same  crop. 


Halter-breaking  Young  Colts. 


Young  colts,  when  their  dams  are  used  in  a 
harness,  are  frequently  troublesome  about  fol¬ 
lowing,  especially  when  traveling  on  the  high¬ 
way,  where  they  are  liable  to  meet  other  horses. 
It  is  common  to  see  a  young  colt  run  directly 
away  from  its  dam,  when  on  the  road,  and  be¬ 
coming  bewildered,  no  little  trouble  is  required 
to  bring  it  back.  To  avoid  all  annoyance  from 
this  source,  make  a  soft  lialter  suitable  for  the 
colt’s  head,  and  hitch  it  to  a  strong  fence,  or  some 
other  place,  where  it  can  not  run  around  a  post 
and  wind  the  rope  up.  It  may  pull  for  several 
hours,  but  will  soon  learn  to  stand.  As  soon 
as  accustomed  to  the  halter,  the  colt  may 
be  taught  to  lead,  by  placing  the  dam  a  few 
rods  distant  from  where  it  is  hitched,  and  lead¬ 
ing  it  toward  her.  It  will  be  impossible  to  lead 
a  colt  away  from  its  dam,  until  it  has  become 
well  accustomed  to  the  halter.  By  spending  a 
little  time  with  a  colt,  treating  it  with  the  great¬ 
est  gentleness,  it  may  be  taught  to  travel  by  the 
side  of  its  dam,  wherever  she  goes. 

Tie  the  colt’s  halter  to  the  backhand  of  the 
dam’s  harness,  so  that  it  can  just  reach  her  ud¬ 
der.  This  length  of  halter  will  prevent  the  colt 
running  forward  of  the  mare  when  she  is  tr.av- 
eling.  In  a  few  days  it  will  become  so  gentle, 
that  any  one  can  put  on  the  halter  and  handle  it. 
When  colts  are  not  accustomed  to  the  halter 
until  they  are  two  or  more  years  old,  they  are 
frequently  very  difficult  to  manage.  But  if 
taught  to  lead  when  quite  young,  they  can  often 
be  changed  from  one  place  to  another,  with  lit¬ 
tle  difficulty,  and  will  be  much  more  manageable. 
"» « —  — - •-» - 

Halter  for  Horses  that  Pull  at  the  Post. 


A  correspondent  responds  to  an  inquiry  for  a 
way  to  manage  horses  that  pull  at  the  halter, 
by  sending  the  accom¬ 
panying  drawing  of  a  hal¬ 
ter  which  he  has  been  in 
the  habit  of  making  and 
using  for  many  years.  The 
construction  as  may  be 
seen  from  the  engraving, 
is  very  simple.  It  is  held 
upon  the  head  by  a  throat- 
latch  like  a  bridle,  and  the 
end  of  the  leading  strap 
passes  through  the  ring 
on  each  side,  and  is  sewed 
strongly  to  the  strap  aoout 
14  to  18  inches  from  the 
end.  When  the  horse 
pulls,  this  loop  in  the 
strap  tightens  powerful¬ 
ly,  drawing  the  muzzle 
piece,  and  pressing  the  rings  against  the  jaw  on 
each  side  in  a  way,  doubtless  very  uncomfort- 


182 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[Juke, 


able,  but  uot  so  as  to  injure  the  horse  at  all ; 
beskles  the  draft  chiefly  comes  upon  the  muzzle 
and  not  upon  the  head  or  neck,  as  is  the  case 
•with  common  halters. 


Stockings  Down  to  Grass,  with  or  with¬ 
out  Grain. 


The  notion  is  preyalent  that  it  is  essential  to 
the  life  and  growth  of  young  grass  to  raise  a 
crop  of  some  kind  of  gram,  while  the  tender 
spears  are  becoming  sufficiently  rooted  to  en¬ 
dure  the  dry  and  hot  weather.  But  the  shading 
of  the  ground  is  not  essential  to  the  growth  of 
clover  or  grass,  unless  the  seed  be  sowed  very 
late  in  the  spring,  or  during  the  summer,  and 
where  the  soil  is  not  rich  and  mellow.  On  mod¬ 
erately  fertile  and  mellow  soils,  though  no  crop 
of  grain  be  allowed  to  grow,  clover  or  grass 
seed  of  any  kind  will  ordinarily  succeed  much 
better  than  otherwise.  If  the  soil  be  quite  poor 
and  likely  to  parch  during  drouths,  a  small 
quantity  of  rye  per  acre  will  afifoi’d  the  young 
grass  the  benefit  of  some  shade.  Grass  needs 
no  shade  even  in  dry  weather  after  it  has  it¬ 
self  become  large  enough  to  shade  the  ground, 
but  is  benefited  by  the  sun  and  air  quite  as 
much  as  other  plants.  Another  consideration, 
not  to  be  overlooked,  is,  that  any  crop  occupy¬ 
ing  the  ground,  with  the  young  grass,  with¬ 
draws  both  nutriment  and  moislure  from  the 
soil,  which  might  essentially  benefit  the  more 
important  but  feebler  crop. 

There  is  probably  no  better  grain  than  rye  to 
sow  -^vhere  a  field  is  to  be  stocked  down  to 
clover  or  grass.  Wheat  is  second  to  rye  in  this 
respect,  and  is  superior  to  oats  and  barley, 
which  are  quite  objectionable  when  the  usual 
(piantity  is  sown  per  acre,  on  account  of  the 
large  leaves  and  thick  bottom  growth  which  is 
liable  to  choke  the  young  grass,  while  rye 
shoots  upward  rapidly,  and  does  not  grow  thick¬ 
ly  at  the  bottom.  Were  oats  and  barley  sowed 
thinner  on  the  ground  than  usual  for  a  full  crop 
of  grain,  grass  might  grow  quite  as  well  as  with 
a  crop  of  rye.  Another  point  in  favor  of  rye 
is,  it  usually  keeps  erect  better  than  either  oats 
or  barley.  On  light  soils  where  there  is  so 
much  humus  or  vegetable  mold  as  to  cause  a 
large  growth  of  straw,  if  the  grain  lodges  as  it 
often  does,  almost  every  spear  of  grass  will  be 
killed.  As  spring  rye  is  often  a  good  crop  to 
grow  in  a  four  or  five  years’  rotation,  many  farm¬ 
ers  will  find  it  profitable  to  arrange  their  rota¬ 
tion  so  as  to  raise  spring  in  preference  to 
winter  rye  wdien  land  is  to  be  stocked  down. 

For  good  farmers,  the  following  directions 
will  be  of  little  or  no  value,  and  may  appear 
quite  untimely,  but  many  need  the  exhortation. 
As  most  of  our  grass  is  cut  with  horse-mowers, 
it  is  quite  important  that  the  surface  should  be 
smooth,  free  from  knolls,  hollows,  dead  furrows, 
ridges,  and  clods.  And  even  if  it  be  mowed  by 
hand,  the  surface  ought  to  be  smooth,  so  that 
the  grass  may  be  cut  close  to  the  ground. 
Where  there  are  knolls  and  hollows,  the  most 
expeditious  way  is  to  level  the  knolls  with  a 
team  and  dirt-scraper,  either  after  or  previous 
|to  plowing.  When  there  are  ridges  formed  by 
back-furrowing  repeatedly  in  one  place,  turn 
back  furrows  into  the  hollows,  and  finish  off 
lands  with  dead  furrows  where  the  ridges  are. 
By  measuring  the  distance  from  ridges  to  fur¬ 
rows,  even  where  they  are  not  uniform,  the  dead 
furrows  may  be  made  in  the  desired  place.  After 
the  ground  has  been  suiliciently  harrowed,  if 
Ihere  be  loose  sods  and  lumps  of  earth,  throw 
them  into  the  lowest  places,  with  manure  forks. 


and  make  the  surface  as  smooth  as  practicable. 
Then  roll,  and  sow  grass  seed.  This  will  form 
not  only  a  smooth  surface  -to  work  on  when 
harvesting  the  grain,  but  will  be  smooth  for  the 
mower,  horse-rake,  and  loaded  wagon  or  cart, 
when  cutting  and  gathering  the  crops.  A  few 
hours  spent  in  this  manner  will  not  only  im¬ 
prove  the  appearance  of  the  surface  of  a  field, 
but  be  a  som’ce  of  -much  profit  wdien  harvesting 
the  grain.  Sometimes  driving  storms  occur 
just  before  grain  is  fit  to  harvest,  which  pros¬ 
trates  a  large  proportion  of  it.  Then  especially, 
if  the  surface  of  the  ground  be  smooth,  the 
grain  ean  be  cut  much  more  advantageously 
than  if  it  be  covered  'Buth  bogs,  lumps,  and  sods. 


Management  of  Barn-Yard  Manure. 


It  is  very  often  the  case  that  manure  is  al- 
low'ed  to  accumulate  and  remain  undisturbed  in 
the  yard  during  the  summer,  after  which  it  is 
hauled  to  the  field  and  applied  for  winter  grain. 
Treated  thus,  it  rots  but  little,  but  if  forked  over, 
it  wmuld  decay  very  rapidly.  In  some  instances, 
corn  stalks,  straw,  and  stable  manure  are  min¬ 
gled  together,  by  being  spread  evenly  over  the 
entire  yard,  and  are  pressed  firmly  together  by 
the  constant  tread  of  animals.  Mr.  Isaac  Peck, 
an  excellent  farmer,  of  Fairfield  Co.,  Conn.,  re¬ 
cently  related  to  us  his  manner  of  preparing 
barn-yard  manure  for  winter  grain.  His  yard 
is  constructed  so  that  no  liquids  flow  from  it, 
except  sometimes  during  very  heavy  rains,  and 
this  is  conducted  upon  a  field,  and  not  to  the 
brook  or  river.  His  corn  stalks  are  fed  out  in 
the  yard,  where  the  large  buts  become  mingled 
with  refuse  straw  and  stable  manure.  During 
days  in  summer  when  laborers  cannot  work  to 
advantage  on  the  farm,  they  commence  on  one 
side  of  the  yard  and  fork  the  manure  over, 
turning  it  clear  to  the  ground.  If  there  is  too 
much  straw  or  corn  stalks  in  one  place,  they 
are  scattered  over  a  larger  surface,  so  as  to  mix 
different  kinds  as  thoroughly  as  possible.  By 
forking  it  over  in  this  manner,  the  coarse  por¬ 
tions  will  be  fined,  and  sufficiently  decayed  by 
autumn  to  make  it  possible  to  spread  it  evenly, 
and  it  will  be  in  a  far  better  condition  to  benefit 
wheat,  or  any  other  w'inter  grain.  Mr.  Peck 
usually  applies  most  of  his  barn-yard  manure 
to  his  w'inter  grain,  and  by  this  system  he  is 
able  to  raise  good  crops  of  wheat  w'here  the  soil 
was  formerly  considered  poorly  adapted  to  that 
kind  of  grain.  We  do  not  commend  our 
friend’s  way  of  treating  corn  stalks — that  is, 
feeding  them  out  whole  on  the  ground  in  the 
yard ;  but  thousands  of  very  good  farmers  will 
do  so,  though  they  lose  about  half  the  value  of 
the  fodder.  In  I'egard  to  working  over  the 
manure  in  the  yard,  how'ever,  his  practice  is 
excellent.  If  he  had  muck  at  hand,  and  could 
put  over  a  good  layer  of  it,  or  of  sods,  every 
time  the  manure  w'as  worked  over,  it  would 
greatly  increase  the  value  of  his  manure  crop. 
- - - - 

Management  of  Ded  Clover  for  Seed. 


When  the  chief  object  is  to  raise  a  crop  of 
seed,  whether  the  clover  is  grazed  or  mowed  off, 
it  ought  ahvays  be  done  in  the  month  of  June, 
in  our  latitude,  and  previous  to  the  full  bloom. 
It  is  not  practicable  to  raise  a  good  burden  of 
hay  and  a  crop  of  seed  on  the  same  ground  in 
one  season ;  nor  can  one  expect  a  full  yield  of 
seed  if  the  clover  be  grazed  too  long.  If  the 
large,  or  late  kind  of  red  clover  be  allowed  to 
stand  until  it  is  in  full  bloom  before  it  is  cut, 
there  will  be  only  a  small  crop  of  seed.  Tlie 


most  successful  way  of  managing  this  kind  of 
red  clover  is,  to  pasture  it  until  about  the  15th 
or  20th  of  June;  in  New-England,  or  New- 
York,  never  later  than  the  20th  of  the  month. 
It  has  been  our  practice  to  feed  it  down  close 
just  before  shutting  the  animals  off  altogether, 
and  if  there  was  more  clover  than  they  could 
graze  off  close  to  the  ground  in  a  few  days,  the 
remainder  was  mowed,  and  usually  left  where 
it  grew.  The  objeet  in  mowing  off  all  the 
stalks  that  the  stoek  leave,  is  to  have  all  the 
clover  start  the  second  time  as  evenly  as  pos- 
possible,  grow  uniformly,  and  all  plants  come 
to  maturity  at  the  same  time,  which  is  very 
essential.  The  seed  on  the  portions  of  the 
field  where  the  first  growth  has  not  been  cut 
off,  will  come  to  maturity  several  weeks  before 
the  greater  part  of  the  crop  is  fit  to  cut.  Con¬ 
sequently,  most  of  it  will  shell  off  and  be  lost 
before  the  remainder  can  be  secured.  Many 
farmers,  in  their  first  attempts  to  raise  the  seed 
of  the  large  kind  of  red  clover,  obtain  only  a 
small  crop,  simply  because  the  first  growth 
was  allowed  to  advance  too  far. 

In  growing  a  crop  of  seed  of  the  early,  or 
small  kind  of  red  clover,  the  usual  practice  is 
to  make  hay  of  the  first  growth,  though  it  is 
sometimes  gi'azed  off.  Those  who  raise  the  larg¬ 
est  crops  of  seed,  cut  the  first  time  before  it  is  in 
full  bloom.  They  find  this  essential  and  aim  to 
cut  when  about  two-thirds  of  the  heads  are  in 
blossom.  The  stalks  and  leaves  will  be  very 
green  at  this  stage ;  but  every  day  it  is  allow¬ 
ed  to  stand  after  this,  tends  to  diminish  the  quan¬ 
tity  of  seed  of  the  succeeding  crop.  Conse¬ 
quently,  when  a  farmer  thinks  best  to  allow  the 
first  crop  of  clover  to  come  nearer  maturity,  for 
the  purpose  of  having  a  greater  burden  of  hay, 
he  must  remember  that  he  will  lose  more  in  the 
yield  of  seed  than  he  will  gain  in  the  quality 
and  quantity  of  hay  afforded  by  the  first  growth 
of  the  clover.  Jf  there  be  any  weeds  among 
clover,  they  should  all  be  cut  close  to  the 
ground,  so  that  the  clover  will  get  the  start  of 
them  ajid  effectually  suppress  their  growth. 

Planting  Broom ;  Corn. 


We  have  received  a  series  of  articles  on  the 
cultivation  of  Broom  corn,  aud  making  brooms, 
from  Abram  Stokes,  an  experienced  broom- 
maker,  of  Ulster  Co.,  N.  Y.;  and  we  give  his 
mode  of  preparing  the  soil  and  planting  the 
seed.  He  says :  “  Select  a  dry,  rich,  deep  loam, 
nearly  free  from  sand,  gravel  and  stones,  and 
plow  it  deep — the  deeper  the  better.  A  red 
clover,  or  timothy  sod  is  best ;  because  it  will 
usually  be  free  from  weeds.  Pulverize  the  sur¬ 
face  as  deep  as  practicable  with  a  cultivator;  or 
it  may  be  plowed  the  second  time,  by  using  a 
plow  with  a  sharp  point,  sharp  coulter,  and 
guage  wheel  to  regulate  the  depth.  In  tliis  tvay 
it  can  be  pulverized  more  thoroughly  than  with 
a  cultivator.  Before  plowing  the  second  time, 
however,  the  ground  should  be  allowed  to  set¬ 
tle  after  a  heavy  rain  has  fallen ;  or  the  sods 
may  be  pressed  down  with  a  roller.  Plow  the 
second  time  the  same  way  as  the  first,  running 
the  plow  as  deep  as  practicable,  without  turn¬ 
ing  up  portions  of  the  sod.  Harrow  it  thor¬ 
oughly;  and  mark  the  ground  one  way  with  a 
small  plow  for  planting  in  drills.  It  is  better 
to  have  the  rows  run  north  and  south,  as  the 
sun  will  shine  on  each  side  more  uuiforml3^ 
I  prefer  the  tall  Broom  corn,  as  it  has  been 
well  tested  and  approved.  The  dwarf  may  suc¬ 
ceed  as  well  on  some  .kinds  of  soil,  where  it  will 
not  grow  too  slender,  which  is  a  fault  of  this 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


183 


kind  of  corn.  If  brush  be  too  slender,  the 
brooms  bend  too  easily,  and  wear  out  too  soon. 
When  brush  grows  in  the  form  of  a  panicle  of 
oats,  it  is  worthless.  Such  brush,  however,  is 
seldom  produced  except  on  a  thin  soil  of  gravel, 
or  sand,  with  a  clayey  subsoil  six  or  eight  inches 
beneath  the  surface. 

My  manner  of  planting  the  seed  is,  to  carry  it 
in  a  small  pail,  and  drop  about  one  hundred 
kernels  per  rod  [or  about  two  inches  apart]. 
After  dropping  a  few  rows,  cover  it  with  a  har¬ 
row  having  30  or  40  teeth,  by  driving  the  team 
one  on  each  side  of  the  drill.  If  the  harrow  be 
not  drawn  the  second  time  over  the  ground,  it 
will  not  displace  any  of  the  seed.  When  plant¬ 
ed  in  this  manner,  the  seed  comes  up  well, 
grows  more  uniformly,  and  makes  better  brush 
than  if  planted  in  hills,  as  the  stalks  iSre  more 
evenly  distributed  over  the  ground.  In  about 
twelve  days,  the  young  plants  will  be  about 
three  inches  high.  Wow  is  the  time  to  get  the 
start  of  weeds  by  working  among  it  with  a  horse 
and  plow.  For  this  purpose,  the  rear  end  of  the 
mold  board  should  be  broken  off  just  back  of 
the  share  to  prevent  rolling  the  earth  too  far 
away  from  the  young  plants.  [Some  farmers, 
and  ourselves  among  the  number  here  named, 
prefer  a  horse  hoe  for  this  purpose. — Ed.]  By 
turning  the  earth  from  the  drills,  the  weeds  will 
be  subdued.  In  about  ten  days,  it  should  be 
plowed  again,  going  twice  in  a  row.  Then  the 
plants  should  be  thinned  so  that  there  will  be 
about  seventy  per  lineal  rod.  All  weeds  grow¬ 
ing  among  the  plants  should  be  removed,  so  as 
to  allow  the  sun  to  shine  on  the  Broom  corn. 
In  about  ten  days  more,  it  should  be  plowed 
again  with  a  large  plow  having  a  short,  crooked 
mold  board,  going  four  times  between  all  the 
rows.  Turn  two  furrows  from  the  rows,  and  then 
turn  them  toward  the  plants,  working  the  soil 
between  the  stems  as  much  as  practicable  with 
the  plow.  In  ten  days  longer,  plow  it  'i^ain, 
going  four  times  between  the  rows,  as  j  ust  stated;- 
always  turning  the  soil  toward  the  corn  the  last 
time  through.  I  always  perform  most  of  the 
work  with  the  plow,  and  do  as  little  with  the 
hand-hoe  as  possible.” 


Cultivation  of  Buckwlieat. 

When  buckwheat  is  sowed  in  the  spring,  or 
first  part  of  summer,  the  hot  weather  which 
occurs  when  it  is  in  blossom,  prevents  perfect 
fructification.  Consequently  there  will  be  nu¬ 
merous  clusters  of  kernels  that  will  be  blasted. 
For  this  reason  the  seed  should  be  sowed,  so 
that  the  hottest  weather  will  have  passed,  by 
the  time  the  buckwheat  is  in  full  bloom.  Cool 
weather  or  at  least  cool  nights  are  quite  as  es¬ 
sential  to  a  good  crop  of  buckwheat,  as  hot  days 
and  nights  are  for  Indian  corn.  The  point  to 
be  aimed  at  in  every  locality  is,  to  defer  sowing 
as  long  as  possible  and  allow  it  sufficient  time  to 
mature  before  an  early  frost  will  destroy  the  crop. 
This  period  occurs  at  different  times  in  diffbrent 
localities.  In  the  latitude  of  Central  and  West¬ 
ern  New  York,  the  proper  time  for  seeding 
is  about  the  first  of  July.  We  have  known 
buckwheat  sowed  as  late  as  the  16th  of  July, 
which  produced  a  bountiful  crop ;  but  in  that 
latitude  there  is  a  great  risk  on  account  of 
the  frost,  if  it  is  not  sowed  by  the  tenth  of 
July.  Our  most  successful  farmers  in  this 
latitude,  calculate  to  have  their  buckwheat  put 
in  as  soon  as  the  fourth  of  July;  and  in  some 
seasons,  even  when  sowed  at  that  time,  frost 
appears  so  early  in  the  fall  as  to  almost  destroy 
the  entire  crop.  In  some  localities  it  may  be 
sowed  the  latter  part  of  July,  and  escape  frost. 


If  the  soil  where  it  is  sowed  be  well  pulverized 
so  that  it  will  vegetate  immediately,  and  if  the 
grain  is  put  in  by  the  fourth  of  July  or  even  by 
the  tenth,  a  bountiful  crop  may  be  expected. 
When  the  ground  is  plowed  but  once  for  a  crop 
of  buckwheat  where  the  soil  is  heavy,  it  is  often 
so  dry  and  hard,  and  breaks  up  in  such  large 
lumps  and  clods,  that  many  farmers  in  waiting 
for  rain  to  moisten  the  soil  previous  to  plowing, 
are  compelled  to  defer  seeding  until  it  is  too  late. 
But  if  the  soil  be  plowed  in  the  spring,  it  will 
not  become  dry  and  hard  by  the  time  it  is  to  be 
plowed  the  second  time,  but  will  be  moist  and 
mellow;  and  the  grain  will  vegetate  soon. 

Every  intelligent  farmer  who  is  located  on  a 
heavy  soil,  that  is  apt  to  plow  up  lumpy,  under- 
•stands  the  importance  of  plowing  it  when  it  is 
jirst  moist  enough  to  turn  up  mellow.  Buck¬ 
wheat  can  not  be  expected  to  vegetate  in  time, 
and  flourish  luxuriantl}’’,  and  yield  a  renumer¬ 
ating  crop  when  the  soil  is  a  mass  of  dry  lumps. 


The  Preparation  of  Peat  for  Fuel. 

It  is  really  wonderful,  the  manner  in  which  a 
want,  when  it  occurs,  is  supplied.  As  our  for¬ 
ests  disappeared  before  an  increasing  popula¬ 
tion,  and  wood  for  fuel  became  less  readily 
obtainable,  the  immense  coal  measures  were 
opened,  and  a  better  and  cheaper  fuel  than 
wood  was  supplied.  When  whales  became  so 
scarce  that  illuminating  oils  were  very  costly, 
the  wonderful  petroleum  deposits  M'ere  found 
and  made  to  give  up  their  liquid  treasures. 
Recently,  from  a  combination  of  causes,  coal 
has  borne  so  high  a  price  as  to  induce  the 
search  for  some  cheaper  substitute,  and  atten¬ 
tion  has  been  directed  to  the  heretofore  almost 
neglected  deposits  of  peat.  Almost  everyBtate 
has  its  extensive  peat  bogs,  or  meadows,  as  they 
are  called,  containing  vast  amounts  of  a  material 
closffiy  analogous  to  coal  in  its  composition, 
and  like  that  capable  of  serving  as  a  valuable 
fuel.  These  peat  deposits  have,  thus  far,  been 
almost  untouched,  save  that  a  comparatively 
small  proportion  of  the  whole  has  been  used 
for  agricultural  purposes.  When  simply  cut 
into  squares  and  dried,  peat  makes  a  tolerable 
fuel,  but  when  properly  manipulated  and  con¬ 
densed,  it  furnishes  a  product  not  unlike  the 
best  kinds  of  coal  in  appearance,  and  which  is 
not  inferior  to  it  for  domestic  or  manufacturing 
purposes.  We  learn  from  an  interesting  pam¬ 
phlet  by  Mr.  T.  H.  Leavitt,  of  Boston,  that  a 
company  of  Boston  capitalists  are  engaged  in 
developing  this  new  source  of  fuel,  and  in  sup¬ 
plying  machinery  to  parties  wishmg  to  engage 
in  manufacturing  the  peat  in  other  places.  It  is 
said  that  the  attempts  at  compacting  the  peat 
by  pressure  alone,  have  proved  failures.  The 
process  of  this  company,  as  described  to  us  by 
one  of  its  members,  involves  the  removal  of  all 
the  fibres  and  kneading  the  remainder  into  a 
homogeneous  mass,  which  readily  becomes 
solid  and  dense  upon  drying.  The  different 
operations  are  performed  by  very  sj.mple  ma¬ 
chinery.  The  specimens  we  have  seen  were 
certainly  very  fine,  and  it  is  claimed  that  the 
prepared  product  can  be  produced  at  $4  or  $5 
per  ton.  The  address  of  the  association  is  the 
American  Peat  Company,  Boston.  We  have 
no  further  knowledge  of  the  company  than 
what  is  here  stated,  and  only  call  attention 
to  the  matter  as  one  of  great  general  interest. 
It  has  been  found  preferable  to  coal  for  gener¬ 
ating  steam  in  locomotive  boilers,  and,  from  its 
great  freedom  from  mineral  matter,  it  is  prefer¬ 
red  by  steel  and  iron  manufacturers  to  all  other 
fuel.  We  shall  be  glad  if  the  attempts  now 


making  to  utilize  peat  shall  result  in  giving 
us  cheaper  fuel  and  in  unfolding  a  new  source 
of  wealth  to  agriculturist  and  land  owners, 

^  — ■  I  ^  II 

How  to  Make  a  Close  Hedge. 


The  following  communication  from  Joseph 
Coffin,  of  Jefferson  Co.,  Iowa,  gives  his  metliotl 
of  securing  a  tight  hedge.  The  plan  is  not  a 
new  one,  but  we  do  not  recollect  having  pub¬ 
lished  it  before.  “  I  have  read  a  great  many 
chapters  on  hedging,  and  have  seen  a  great 
many  hedges,  but  I  have  yet  to  see  the  first 
fence  made  on  the  plan  recommended  by  most 
writers  on  the  subject.  An  Osage  hedge  of  this 
kind  shows  better  on  paper  than  around  a  field 
of  grain  needing  protection.  The  reason  is 
this :  where  the  hedge  is  cut  off  so  frequently 
and  closely,  the  sprouts  are  so  weak  and  small, 
that  as  soon  as  the  growth  becomes  sufficiently 
high  to  be  of  any  use  against  large  stock,  the 
under  twigs  die  out  and  leave  holes  between  the 
plants.  There  is  one  mode  by  which  the  Osage 
can  be  made  into  a  reliable,  substantial  fence, 
whieh  is  this.  Set  your  plants  two  feet  apart, 
and  let  them  alone,  except  to  keep  the  grass  and 
large  weeds  from  the  roots,  until  they  are  five 
or  six  years  old,  or  until  they  are  two,  or  two 
and-a-half  inches  in  diameter.  Then,  before 
the  sap  starts  in  the  spring,  take  a  sharp  ax  and 
commencing  at  one  end,  cut  the  plants,  (or 
bushes  they  will  be  now)  three-fourths  or  four- 
fifths  off,  and  lay  each  bush  down  on  the  last 
one  cut.  The  cutting  must  all  be  done  on  one 
side  leaving  the  bark  uninjured  on  the  under 
side.  Do  not  be  afraid  to  cut  them  near  enough 
off  to  allow  them  to  bend  down  easil}^  as  an 
inch  of  bark  will  keep  an  ordinary  sized  bush 
alive.  The  lower  end  of  the  body  should  be 
about  four  inches  from  the  ground.  S;grouts  , 
will  start  up  from  the  roots  and  from  the  body, 
and  run  up  through  the  tops,  and  make  a  fence 
that  no  rabbit  can  pass  through.  The  future 
trimming  can  be  done  to  the  fancy,  or  the  whole 
let  grow  up  for  a  wind  breaker. 

“  I  think  that  when  the  hedge  has  become 
of  sufficient  size,  it  would  be  a  good  plan  to 
set  a  sod  of  timothy  or  blue  grass  around  it  to 
prevent  the  growth  becoming  too  massive  and 
cumbersome.  A  strip  of  six  or  eight  feet  on 
each  side  would  be  sufficient,  and  would  be 
much  more  neat  and  profitable  than  the  weeds 
w’hich  would  grow  unless  a  great  deal  of  extra 
care  were  taken  to  keep  them  in  subjection. 
The  great  scarcity  of  timber  in  this  prairie 
country  leads  me  to  urge  the  adoption  of 
this  plan,  as  I  know  by  experience  and  observa¬ 
tion  that  this  is  the  only  one  so  far  introduced 
into  this  section  of  country  that  is  reliable.” 


Breeding  Horses  for  Heavy  Work. 


The  influence  of  Agricultural  Societies,  with 
very  few  exceptions,  and  too  much  that  of  the 
agricultural  press,  has  been  thrown  in  favor  of 
breeding  a  class  of  light  active  nags  for  the 
road  and  light  work.  And  now  the  country  is 
overstocked  with  these  smart  little  Morgans  and 
Black-Hawks,  and  other  trotting  stock,  the  pop¬ 
ularity  of  which  has,  in  our  opinion,  been  a  se¬ 
rious  detriment  to  our  horse-raising  interests. 
The  object  with  many  breeders  has  been  to  se¬ 
cure  style  and  speed,  almost  regardless  of  size 
and  strength.  The  heavy  work  of  the  farm  being 
done  by  oxen,  and  our  farms  in  many  of  the 
horse- raising  districts  being  small,  the  farmers 
themselves  have  not  felt  the  need  of  heavier 
draft  animals.  However,  it  would  be  much 


184 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[  J  UNE, 


DRAUGHT  HORSES.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist, 


better  for  us  as  farmers  if  we  used  heavier 
horses,  aud  there  is  in  our  cities  an  insatiable 
market  for  large  and  powerful  animals  as  dray 
and  truck  horses,  and  for  Express  companies. 
Those  possessing  style  and  fine  action  bring 
enormous  prices  as  gentlemen’s  coach  horses. 
We  present  above  the  portrait  of  a  Draught  Stal¬ 
lion  from  one  of  Weir’s  drawings.  It  exhibits 
many  of  those  points  which  the  sire  of  large¬ 
sized  horses  for  heavy  draft  should  possess.  We 
do  not  undervalue  blood  (that  is,  the  blood  of 
the  English  thorough-bred  race-horse,)  on  the 
side  of  the  sire ;  but  there  are  many  reasons 
why  thorough-breds  can  not  be  generally  used 
for  crossing  on  large  mares,  and  why  the  cross 
would  be  undesirable.  Horses  by  blood-sires 
are  very  apt  to  inherit  their  temper,  often  none 
of  the  mildest,  and  a  fractious  great  horse  is  a 
dangerous  and  unsafe  piece  of  property.  Prob¬ 
ably  the  best  class  of  sires  for  heavy  stock,  that 
would  be  available  in  this  country,  would  spring 
from  crossing  thorough-bred  stallions  on  large 
handsome  Norman,  or  other  large-sized  mares. 
Such  horses  would  be  of  large  size,  and  in 
form  and  style  combine  the  good  points  of  the 
two  races,  and  communicate  probably  many 
of  their  own  excellences  to  their  progeny. 
In  selecting  a  mare,  bear  in  mind  that  the 


qualities  she  chiefly  imparts  to  the  foal  are  size, 
constitution,  form  of  body,  and  symmetry; 
while  spirit  and  bottom,  intelligence  and  action 
come  more  from  the  sire.  The  aim  should  be 
to  obtain  a  mare  of  large  size,  having  a  large, 
roomy  body,  rather  short  legs,  broad  and  deep 
in  the  chest,  heavy  behind,  broad  across  the 
hips,  wide  in  the  pelvis,  and  carrying  her  hind 
feet  well  apart.  The  back  should  be  short,  the 
limbs  clean  and  strong,  the  hoofs  pointing 
forward,  round,  aud  solid,  rather  than  long  or 
flat.  She  should  have  a  small  head,  large  nos¬ 
trils,  and  a  full  quiet  eye,  a  neck  sufficiently  long 
to  allow  her  to  graze  on  level  ground  without 
spreading  her  forefeet,  and  more  than  all,  pos¬ 
sess  higlr-  spirits,  and  a  tractable  disposition. 
In  selecting  mares,  every  one  should  be  scrupu¬ 
lously  rejected  that  has  blemishes,  or  bad  points, 
and  especially  constitutional  defects,  for  such 
things  are  almost  sure  to  be  transmitted  to  the 
offspring.  These  things  are  to  be  avoided  with 
as  much  care  in  the  selection  of  a  stallion  as  a 
mare.  A  celebrated  stallion  in  Central  New 
York,  which  had  several  spavins,  got  excellent 
colts;  but  before  they  were  four  years  old, 
most  of  them  were  badly  spavined  ;  and  some 
of  them  had  spavins  on  both  hind  legs.  , 
The  important  points  we  should  seek  in  a 


stallion  for  the  purpose  we  are  considering,  are : 
size,  good  form,  muscle,  bottom,  vigorous  health, 
quicloiess,  and  spirit.  We  can  not  expect  to 
raise  large  horses  from  undersized  stallions. 
Every  other  good  point  may  be  developed  in  the 
most  desirable  manner ;  but  if  size  be  wanting, 
he  should  not  be  used  for  raising  horses  for 
heavy  work.  The  body  of  the  stallion  should 
be  of  as  good  proportions  as  the  mare’s;  his 
back  should  be  short ;  and  his  body  round  as  a 
barrel,  well  ribbed  back,  and  filled  out  in  the 
flank,  and  not  like  the  body  of  a  greyhound. 
His  head  should  be  small  and  bony ;  his  neck 
strong  and  of  good  length;  his  breast  very 
broad  from  one  shoulder  point  to  the  other ;  the 
withers  high ;  the  legs  short,  but  very  strong, 
having  the  hocks  and  knees  low,  and  the 
legs  below  hard  and  smooth;  the  leg  bones 
large  and  flat.  Such  a  horse  will  not  be  liable 
to  strain  himself  at  a  heavy  draught ;  he  will 
be  an  easy  traveler,  and  his  hind  legs  will  not 
swing  and  twist  out  and  in  as  he  moves.  The 
stallion  should  be  solid  and  compact;  kindly 
tempered,  and  plucky;  and  if  possible,  choice 
should  be  made  of  one  which  is  known  to  im¬ 
part  with  great  uniformity  his  good  points  to 
his  colts.  It  is  neither  necessary  nor  desirable 
to  use  a  stallion  as  large  as  the  mare. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


185 


The  White  Maple.— dasycarpum. 


This  tree  is  attracting  much  attention  at  the 
West  as  one  of  those  possessing  qualities  which 
adapt  it  to  planting  on  the  prairies.  It  is  some¬ 
times  confounded  with  the  Eed  Maple,  from 
whieh  it  is  very  distinct.  The  White  or  Silver 
Maple  is  found  nearly  all  over  the  country,  but 
attains  its  perfection  in  the  Middle  States,  where 
it  forms  a  stately  tree.  Its  branches  spread 
widely  and  form  a  broad  head,  but  not  a  very 
dense  shade.  The  young  twigs  are  yellowish 
green,  marked  with  brownish  dots,  but  the  old¬ 
er  wood  is  gray.  The  leaves,  of  the  shape  shown 
in  our  figure,  but  considerably  larger,  are  downy 
when  young,  but  become  smooth  when  old. 
The  upper  surface  of  the  leaves  is  dark  green, 
while  the  lower  side  is  silvery  white,  the  two 
siirfaces  affording  a  remarkable  contrast  of  col¬ 
or,  and  a  character  which  serves  to  distinguish 
the  species  from  the  Red  Maple,  the  leaves  of 
which  sometimes  resemble  those  of  the  White. 
The  flowers,  which  are  small,  greenish  yellow, 
and  woolly,  appear  early  in  spring,  before  the 
leaves,  and  are  soon  followed  by  the  conspicuous 
two  winged  fruit,  which  though  hairy  when 
young,  becomes  quite  smooth  when  ripe.  The 
shape  of  the  fruit,  which  is  nearly  two  inches 
in  length,  is  shown  in  the  engraving.  It  consists 
of  two  one-seeded  capsules  or  “  keys,”  joined  at 
the  base,  and  furnished  with  a  broad  wing 
which  is  beautifully  veined.  The  wood  is  nei¬ 
ther  very  strong  nor  durable,  but  it  makes  tol¬ 
erable  fuel  and  excellent  charcoal.  The  spread¬ 
ing  habit  of  the  tree  and  its  often  pendulous 
branches,  give  it  an  aspect  quite  different  from 
that  of  any  other  maple,  and  it  is  fine  for  orna¬ 
mental  purposes.  Although  its  shade  is  not 
dense,  this  is  more  than  compensated  for 
by  its  greater  freedom  from  insects  than  any 
other  of  our  native  species.  It  is  not  very  par¬ 
ticular  as  to  soils,  though  it  reaches  its  great¬ 
est  development  in  rather  moist  and  rich  ones. 
The  ease  with  which  this  maple  is  raised  and 


the  rapidity  of  its 
growth,  especially 
adapt  it  to  form 
timber  belts  on 
the  prairies.  The 
books  recommend 
gathering  the  seed 
in  the  fall,  which 
is  about  as  pos¬ 
sible  as  to  make 
snow  balls  in  Au¬ 
gust.  The  seed 
ripens  very  early 
and  should  be 
sown  as  soon  as 
ripe.  The  time  of 
maturity  of  the 
seed  varies  with 
locality  and  sea¬ 
son,  but  it  is  usu¬ 
ally  toward  the 
end  of  May  or  the 
first  of  June.  In¬ 
sects,  birds  and 
squirrels  are  very 
destructive  to  the 
seeds,  and  it  is 
well  to  gather 
them  before  they 
fall.  They  are 
then  to  be  plant¬ 
ed  at  once  in 
moist,  well  pre¬ 
pared  soil.  They 
are  sown  in  drills 
an  inch  deep  and  the  young  plants  kept  clear 
of  weeds,  and  carefully  cultivated  for  two  years. 
- - —aw  — - - 

Coal  Ashes  for  Walks  and  Roads. 


In  February  last  attention  was  called,  in  a 
brief  item,  to  the  use  of  coal  ashes  as  a  service¬ 
able  material  for  making  walks  in  places  where 
gravel  was  not  readily  obtainable.  A  corre¬ 
spondent,  “  C.  S.,”  at  Montreal,  Canada,  has 
since  written  an  account  of  his  "fexperience,  as 
follows :  “  In 

the  spring  of 
1863, 1  laid  out 
a  new  vege¬ 
table  garden, 
and  having  fil¬ 
led  the  walks 
4  inches  deep 
with  chips  from 
a  stone-yard,  I 
put  on  a  2-inch 
coating  of  coal 
ashes.  After 
these  had  been 
carefully  raked 
over,  we  let 
them  be,  and 
found  that  al¬ 
though  they 
were  not  rolled, 
they  very  quickly  packed  solid.  The  walks 
were  equal  in  every  respect  to  those  made 
with  gravel,  and  they  were  more  free  from 
weeds  and  grass.  They  cost  only  the  cartage, 
as  people  in  the  city  are  glad  to  be  rid  of  the 
ashes.  The  cost  was  12^-  cents  a  load  against 
75  cents  for  gravel.  Four  years  ago  I  laid  out 
a  carriage  road  of  gravel,  having  10  inches  of 
stone  underneath.  We  intended  to  cover  this 
over  with  sand  to  keep  the  gravel  from  going 
down  through,  but  when  about  one  third  of  the 
drive  had  been  thus  coated,  the  supply  of  sand 


gave  out.  One  half  of  the  remainder  was  cov¬ 
ered  with  brick  dust,  etc.,  the  other  with  coal 
ashes.  The  whole  was  then  coated  over  with 
gravel.  The  part  on  which  coal  ashes  were 
placed,  hardened  first,  and  has,  with  much  less 
labor,  always  been  by  far  the  finest  piece.  That 
covered  with  brick  dust  has  been  fullest  of  grass 
and  weeds  and  has  been  the  most  troublesome, 
while  that  laid  with  coal  ashes  has  been  the 
cleanest,  hardest,  dryest,  and  in  evfery  way  much 
the  best.  If  I  ever  lay  any  more  gravel  roads 
or  walks  I  shall  certainly  put  a  coat  of  ashes 
between  the  stone  bottom  and  the  gravel.  Last 
spring  I  laid  as  an  experiment  a  small  walk, 
solely  with  coal  ashes  and  with  no  stone  in  the 
bottom.  I  put  in  about  4  inches  and  the  walk 
was  good.  It  has  been  tried  but  one  season.” 

■  t  I  1^-^^  >  m 

Rustic  Bridges. 


It  often  happens  that  a  brook  which  traverses 
the  farm  or  runs  through  the  grounds  has  to  be 
crossed  b^  a  path,  and  it  affords  the  proprietor 
an  opportunity  to  introduce  an  ornamental 
structure  in  the  shape  of  a  rustic  bridge,  which, 
if  the  location  is  well  chosen,  will  add  much  to 
the  attractions  of  the  place.  To  facilitate  the 
crossing  of  small  streams,  we  find  on  slovenly 
places  a  plank,  or  even  a  rail,  made  to  serve  as 
a  bridge,  but  where  the  proprietor  is  more  re¬ 
gardful  of  neatness  and  comfort  there  is  usually 
a  bridge  of  carpenter  work.  A  bridge  of  rustic 
work  is  in  much  better  taste  than  one  carefully 
planed  and  painted,  and  can  be  made  plain  or 
quite  elaborate  according  to  the  fancy  of  the 
builder.  The  best  material  for  this,  as  for  other 
rustic  work,  is  Red  Cedar,  as  the  wood  is  not 
only  of  pleasing  color  and  durable,  but  with  a 
proper  care  in  selecting,  pieces  may  be  found 
having  a  natural  curve  which  adapts  them  to 
the  use.  In  a  bridge  the  work  should  be  strong, 
and  those  parts  in  contact  with  moisture  may 
be  preserved  by  a  coating  of  coal  tar.  The  de¬ 
sign  may  be  graceful  or  express  solidity,  accord¬ 
ing  to  the  size  and  situation  of  the  structure. 
As  an  example  showing  strength  and  solidity, 


we  give  an  engraving,  from  a  sketch  by  one 
of  our  artists,  of  one  of  the  small  bridges 
at  the  Central  Park.  This  bridge  is  in  that 
part  of  the  Park  called  the  Ramble,  and  be¬ 
ing  subjected  to  constant  use,  is  built  in  the 
most  substantial  manner.  It  was  designed  bj' 
Mr.  Vaux,  one  of  the  architects  of  the  Park. 
The  Park  contains  many  fine  specimens  of 
rustic  work,  in  the  way  of  seats,  shades,  sum¬ 
mer-houses,  etc.,  which  afford  examples  worthy 
of  study  by  those  who  would  undertake  the 
construction  of  anything  similar.  No  stranger 


RUSTIC  BRIDGE  IN  THE  CENTRAL  PARK. 


186 


[Jtote, 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


should  visit  New-York  without  seeing  the 
natural  and  architectural  beauties  of  the  Park. 

- - — iiraQ-pg'"  *  ^  — 

Pruning  and  Shaping  Evergreens. 


Once  it  was  thought  that  evergreens  must  not 
be  pruned  at  all ;  they  would  become  diseased, 
or  bleed  to  death.  But  at  length  it  was  noticed 
that  when  accident  pruned  tligm,  they  general¬ 
ly  endured  the  operation,  and  were  often  im¬ 
proved  by  it.  And  so,  in  one  way  and  another, 
we  have  learned  that  conifers  may  be  cut  and 
shaped  as  well  as  any  other  trees. 

Ill  transplanting  an  evergreen,  if  the  roots 
have  been  mutilated  .in  taking  them  up,  we  do 
not  hesitate  to  prune  the  branches,  just  like 
those  of  deciduous  trees.  If  large  branches 
need  taking  off,  apply  shellac  varnish  to  the 
wounds.  Sometimes  a  conifer  loses  a  side 
branch.  It  is  harder  to  fill  up  such'«e,  gap  than 
it  would  be  in  a  deciduous  tree.  But  by  draw¬ 
ing  the  adjacent  limbs  around  and  h’ing  them 
together  over  the  gap,  they  will  sooii  conceal  it. 
Sometimes  a  tree,  like  the  Norway  Spruce  and 
Silver  Fir,  loses  its  leader.  If  let  alone,  per¬ 
haps  two  or  three  new  leaders  will  start  out, 
but  by  cutting  back  all  save  one,  this  will  soon 
shoot  up  straight,  and  in  a  few  years  the  whole 
tree  will  be  denser  and  more  symmetrical  than 
before  the  injury.  Indeed,  some  of  our  most 
skillful  nurserymen  now  practice  taking  out  the 
leaders  of  their  Norways  several  times  during 
their  growth,  in  order  to  make  them  bushy  and 
richly  feathered  to  the  ground.  If  any  ever¬ 
green  inclines  to  grow  spindling  and  meagre,  it 
should  be  cut  back  again  and  again  until  it 
comes  to  its  senses,  and  grows  as  it  ought. 

It  is  surprising  to  how  small  a  space  an  ever¬ 
green  can  be  confined  by  pruning.  We  have 
seen  the  lordly  pine,  which  naturally  aspires  to 
the  hight  of  a  hundred  feet,  kept  down  for  half 
a  life  time  below  six  feet.  The  training  was  be¬ 
gun  when  it  was  only  a  foot  high,  and  by  two 
annual  prunings  it  was  wrought  into  a  globe  of 
wavy  foliage,  shaped  like  a  small  hay-cock,  and 
looked  bright  and  silvery,  and  as  contented  as  a 
Lilac  bush  near  by.  The  Norway,  the  native 
Black  Spruce,  and  the  Balsam  Fir  may  be 
trained  in  the  same  way,  or  cut  into  pyramids, 
or  other  shapes.  Much  more  tractable  still  are 
the  various  Arbor  Vita3S,  and  the  Hemlock.  The 
Junipers  require  less  pruning  than  any  other 
evergreen,  but  even  they  are  improved  by  a  lit¬ 
tle  shearing  when  growing  in  clay  soils. 

Evergreen  hedges  should  be  pruned  like  other 
hedges  when  growing.  But  when  they  have 
attained  their  destined  hight,  the  main  pruning 
should  be  given  in  early  summer,  just  after  the 
first  growth  has  been  made.  This  treatment 
allows  a  slight  after-growth  in  the  summer,  and 
the  plants  are  kept  in  good  condition.  When  a 
hedge  loses  much  of  its  inner  foliage,  it  is  well, 
for  a  few  years,  to  cut  directly  into  the  plants, 
taking  out  every  alternate  branch,  making  in¬ 
deed  the  surface  more  ragged  for  a  while,  but 
giving  the  hedge  finally  new  vigor  and  beauty. 


Zinc  Thee  Lahels. — We  have  already  pub¬ 
lished  one  formula  for  ink  for  writing  upon  zinc 
labels,  and  now  give  the  method  communicated 
by  “ilorlicola”  to  the  Gardener’s  Monthly. 
It  is  very  simple,  and  worthy  of  trial.  Sheet 
zinc  is  cut  into  strips  of  convenient  size,  and 
the  pieces  wcoured  with  fine  sand  and  water,  or 
a  mixture  of  one  part  of  muriatic  acid  and  three 
of  water.  When  made  bright,  the  pieces  are 
put  into  rain  water,  and  left  there  until  wanted. 
The  writing  is  done  with  a  solution  of  one  part 


of  blue  vitriol  (sulphate  of  copper)  in  ten  parts 
of  water,  the  liquid  being  applied  with  a  quill 
pen.  When  the  writing  is  diy,  the  label  may 
be  fastened  to  the  tree.  For  this  purpose,  the 
writer  prefers  strings  of  leather  to  any  others. 
After  a  few  days,  the  writing  will  be  found  to 
be  covered  by  a  white  powder,  which  is  to  be 
removed  by  the  moistened  finger,  and  the 
letters  will  appear  indelibly  fixed. 


Shading  and  Mulching. 


In  our  climate,  the  gardener  has  not  only  to 
contend  with  the  severity  of  winter,  but  with 
the  intense  heat  of  summer,  and  is  obliged  to 
protect  his  plants  against  the  injurious  effects  of 
both  extremes.  Recently  set  plants  often  re¬ 
quire  shading,  as  do  some  established  ones,  and 
many  seedlings.  Not  only  does  the  foliage 
suffer  from  the  effects  of  the  heat,  but  the  roots 
are  also  deprived  of  their  proper  moisture  by 
the  drying  out  of  the  surface  soil  to  an  extent 
that  renders  it  necessary  to  protect  them  by 
some  sort  of  covering  placed  upon  the  earth 
over  the  roots — an  operation  which  is  called 
rmdcldng.  These  things  are  so  obvious,  and 
the  methods  of  shading  and  mulching  so  simple, 
that  those  who  have  had  only  little  experience 
in  cultivating  do  not  need  to  be  told  of  their 
necessity,  nor  how  to  do  them.  It  is  not  for 
such  that  this  article  is  written,  but  for  the 
hundreds  who  will  try  their  hand  at  gardening 
for  the  first  time  in  their  lives.  Indeed,  we  have 
seen  in  the  gardens  of  those  who  make  some 
pretentions  to  skill,  plants  languishing  after  re¬ 
moval,  which  a  newspaper  shade  would  have 
made  happy,  and  trees  and  shrubs  struggling  to 
survive  the  month  of  August,  which  a  few  fork¬ 
fuls  of  otherwise  useless  rubbish  would  have 
wonderfully  helped.  Some  plants  stand  re¬ 
moval  without  injury,  while  others  have  to  be 
handled  with  great  care,  and  to  be  nursed  for 
some  time  after  the  operation  to  enable  them  to 
survive  it.  One  of  the  commonest  ways  of 
shading  small  plants  in  the  garden,  is  to  turn 
empty  flower-pots  over  them.  A  large  leaf,  or 
a  handful  of  recently  cut  grass,  are  frequently 
used,  but  these  soon  wilt  and  fall  down  upon 
the  plant,  and  are  not  as  efficient  nor  much 
more  readily  obtainable  than  paper.  Old  news¬ 
papers,  torn  into  pieces  of  convenient  size, 
arched  over  the  plant,  and  the  edges  held  in 
place  by  covering  them  with  earth,  make  very 
efficient  shades.  Shingles  are  very  handy  for 
the  purpose,  and  plants  in  rows  may  be  shelter¬ 
ed  by  means  of  boards.  If  the  plant  is  quite 
large,  it  may  be  protected  by  a  sort  of  extem¬ 
pore  umbrella  of  paper.  Take  a  stick  of  con¬ 
venient  length,  and  a  sufficiently  large  piece  of 
newspaper ;  place  the  center  of  the  paper  over 
one  end  of  the.  stick,  and  tie  it  down,  an  inch  or 
two  over  the  end  of  the  stick,  the  paper  cap¬ 
ping  the  end  of  the  stick  in  the  same  manner 
that  a  paper  or  leather  cap  is  put  over  the  cork 
of  a  bottle  by  an  apothecary.  This  secures  the 
paper  to  the  stick,  and  leaves  a  broad,  free 
margin,  which  may  be  spread  out  all  around 
like  an  umbrella,  or  sun-shade,  and  the  folds,  or 
gathers,  made  by  tying  in  this  way,  will  give  it 
stiffness  to  retain  its  position.  The  operation  is 
a  very  simple  one,  though  not  so  easy  to  describe 
without  an  illustration.  The  sun-shade  thus 
prepared,  is  fixed  where  it  is  needed,  by  thrust¬ 
ing  the  lower  end  of  the  handle  into  the  ground. 
Potted  plants  from  the  house,  or  green-house, 
especially  the  broad-leaved  evergreens,  like 
Camellias,  must  be  placed  where  they  will  be 
shaded  during  the  heat  of  the  day.  If  no  pro¬ 


per  place  is  available,  a  lath  work  must  be  built 
to  cover  them.  This  is  made  of  strips  of  slats, 
one  or  two  inches  wide,  with  spaces  between 
them  as  wide  as  the  slats.  Plants  placed  under 
this  are  not  exposed  to  the  full  heat  of  the 
sun,  yet  have  plenty  of  light  and  air.  Similar 
screens  are  useful  to  protect  plants  which  grow 
naturally  in  shady  woods,  or  other  cool  lo¬ 
calities,  and  to  cover  seed  beds  of  evergreen 
and  other  trees.  Many  of  the  trees  which  are 
hardiest  when  old,  cannot  be  raised  from  the 
seed  unless  the  young  plants  are  sheltered,  and 
much  of  the  failure  in  raising  tree  seedlings 
comes  from  a  neglect  of  this.  Twigs  of  ever¬ 
greens,  or  even  of  deciduous  trees,  with  the 
leaves  on,  if  stuck  quite  thickly  over  the  seed 
bed,  will  give  the  3’’oung  trees  the  needed  shad¬ 
ing.  The  other  method  of  protection,  mulch¬ 
ing,  is  still  more  simple.  It  consists  merely  in 
covering  the  soil  over  the  roots,  and  may  be 
done  with  litter  of  any  kind.  Damaged  hay, 
straw,  bog  or  salt  hay,  chips,  sawdust,  tan, 
freshly  cut  grass,  or  any  similar  thing,  will 
answer.  In  mulching  strawberry  plants,  straw 
is  generally  employed,  but  corn  stalks,  laid 
lengthwise  of  the  rows,  will  serve  a  very  good 
purpose.  Those  who  have  never  tried  it  have 
no  idea  of  the  great  benefit  of  some  such  simple 
protection  not  only  to  newly  set  trees  and 
other  plants,  but  to  those  which  suffer  from 
drouth.  One  of  the  best  pear-growers  near  this 
city,  attributes  much  of  his  success  to  the  thor¬ 
ough  mulching  of  his  trees.  The  mulch  will 
do  but  little  good  if  put  in  a  little  heap  around 
the  trunk  of  the  tree — as  people  often  do,  and 
then  say  that  the  mulching  is  of  no  use.  It 
should  be  spread  with  a  liberal  hand  over,  and 
even  beyond,  the  space  occupied  by  the  roots. 


Notes  on  Cabbage  Culture. 


The  transplanting  of  cabbages  for  the  main 
crop  will  begin  towards  the  latter  part  of  the  pres¬ 
ent  mouth,  and  continue  into  the  next.  For  suc¬ 
cessful  culture,  it  is  best  to  select  ground  which 
has  not  before  been  used  for  this  crop,  or  which 
has  not  had  cabbages  grown  upon  it  for  three 
or  four  years.  Liberal  manuring  and  deep 
plowing  are  required.  In  an  article  in  April,  it 
was  stated  that  hog  manure  answered  well 
for  this  crop.  This  is  against  the  generally  ac¬ 
cepted  practice,  and  was  given  as  a  bit  of  our 
own  experience.  We  should  have  added  that 
the  manure  was  much  diluted,  by  allowing  the 
hogs  to  compost  it  with  an  abundance  of  muck, 
which  was  thrown  into  their  pens  for  the  pur¬ 
pose.  We  have  never  made  use  of  concentrated 
hog  manure,  and  there  may  be  a  reason  for 
attributing  the  “club  foot”  to  its  use  in  this 
form.  We  have  before  us  two  communications 
upon  cabbage  culture,  the  writers  of  which  re¬ 
late  precisely  opposite  results  from  the  use  of 
hog  manure.  Mr.  J.  W.  Wilson,  of  Kankakee 
Co.,  Ill.,  informs  us  of  complete  success  in  rais¬ 
ing  fine  cabbages,  in  a  yard  which  had  been 
used  as  a  hog  yard  for  several  years ;  while  a 
lady,  in  Belleville,  N.  J.,  writes  that  she  has 
tried  hog  manure  for  two  years,  and  has  not 
been  able  to  raise  a  single  head,  while  the  same 
lot  of  plants,  on  the  same  soil,  dressed  with 
stable  manure,  gave  a  good  crop. — The  distances 
at  which  the  plants  are  to  be  set  will  depend 
upon  the  variety  of  cabbage.  For  the  ordinary 
sorts,  rows  two  feet  apart,  with  the  plants  at 
18  or  20  inches,  in  the  row,  will  answer,  while 
for  the  very  large  kinds,  such  as  Stone-mason, 
and  Marblehead  Drumhead,  from  to  4  feet 
is  recommended.  If  a  large  number  of  plants 


f  18C5.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


187 


are  to  be  set,  the  labor  may  be  divided  with  ad¬ 
vantage  ;  let  one  hand  make  the  holes,  another 
take  up  and  drop  the  plants,  and  one  or  two 
othei-s  cover  them.  Before  taking  up  the  plants, 
give  the  seed  bed  a  good  watering,  then  mix  up 
some  soil  with  water,  to  the  consistence  of  a 
.batter,  and  draw  the  roots  through  it  in  a  man¬ 
ner  to  completely  coat  them.  If  the  plants  are 
put  in  convenient  sized  bunches,  and  the  roots 
thus  covered  are  pressed  close  together,  they 
will  remain  fresh  for  a  long  time.  It  is  the 
custom  of  some  to  set  out  their  plants  just  be¬ 
fore  or  during  a  shower,  and  of  others  to  pro¬ 
vide  some  kind  of  shade  for  the  newly-set  plants, 
but  we  have  set  out  the  plants  whenever  it  was 
found  most  convenient,  without  regard  to  sun 
or  shower.  By  preparing  the  roots  as  above 
mentioned,  filling  the  holes  with  water,  and 
allowing  it  to  soak  away,  and  then  filling  in 
around  the  plant  with  moist  soil,  taken  from 
just  below  the  surface,  there  is  no  need  of  losing 
a  plant.  In  removing  the  plants  from  the  seed 
bed,  all  the  unhealthy  looking  ones  should  be 
rejected,  as  well  as  those,  which  will  sometimes 
be  found,  in  which  the  bud  or  growing  point, 
has  been  destroyed  by  insects ;  such  will  never 
head.  The  cut-worm  is  the  great  enemy  to 
the  cultivator,  and  to  guard  against  it  requires 
some  trouble.  A  piece  of  paper  wrapped 
around  the  stem,  so  as  to  reach  just  below  the 
surface  of  the  earth,  is  an  effectual  safe-guard. 
One  of  our  correspondents  uses  a  maple  leaf 
for  the  same  purpose,  and  finds  it  perfectly  suc¬ 
cessful.  The  crop  can  hardly  be  hoed  too  often, 
and  in  the  garden  rapid  developement  may  be 
much  aided  by  the  use  of  liquid  manure.  The 
same  treatment  is  to  be  followed  in  setting  out 
Cauliflower,  Broccoli,  etc. 


Sow  for  a  Succession. 


In  the  monthly  calendar  it  is  often  recom¬ 
mended  to  sow  certain  things  for  a  succession. 
Some  observation  has  shown  us  that  the  major¬ 
ity  of  farmers  make  but  one  job  of  planting 
the  garden,  and  content  themselves  with  the 
products  as  they  come  along  in  the  course  of 
the  season.  A  little  care  and  foretliought 
would  prolong  the  season  at  both  ends.  At 
this  time  it  is  too  late  to  think  about  forwarding 
plants,  but  it  is] well  to  consider  if  more  enjoy¬ 
ment  may  not  be  had  out  of  the  garden,  by 
continuing  the  sowing  of  seeds  much  later  than 
most  people  are  accustomed  to  do.  An  enu¬ 
meration  of  some  of  the  things  which  may  be 
sown  late  will  also  be  advantageous  to  those 
who,  for  some  reason,  were  prevented  from 
“making  garden,”  at  the  usual  time,  as  well  as 
to  those  whose  crops  have  failed  from  the  use 
of  poor  seed,  or  other  cause.  Bush  beans  may 
be  sown  at  any  time  during  the  summer,  or 
even  into  August,  and  give  a  supply  of  late 
string  beans,  and  a  plenty  for  salting.  The 
Refugee  is  considered  one  of  the  best  for  late 
planting.  Lima  beans,  sown  this  month,  will 
give  fair  returns,  unless  there  are  early  frosts. 
For  beets,  June  is  the  best  month  to  sow  for 
the  winter  crop,  but  the  early,  or  turnip  varie¬ 
ties,  may  be  put  in  as  late  as  the  middle  of 
July.  The  main  crop  of  all  the  cabbage  tribe 
is  to  be  set  out  this  month,  and  if  one  has 
neglected  to  sow  seed  to  provide  the  plants,  he 
can  readily-purchase  them.  The  early  varieties 
of  cabbage  may  be  sown  as  late  as  the  middle 
of  June,  and  form  heads;  Brussels  Sprouts, 
Early  Cauliflower,  and  Broccoli,  may  also  be 
sown,  with  a  fair  prospect  of  a  crop,  and  Kale 
and  Kohl  Rabi  will  do  as  late  as  July.  Carrots 


may  be  sown  in  the  garden  until  the  latter  part 
of  July.  Sweet  Corn  may  be  had  until  frost 
comes,  by  planting  at  intervals  of  two  weeks 
until  July.  Cucumbers  may  be  planted  until 
August;  the  pickle  crop  is  put  in  the  last  of  this 
month.  Other  materials  for  pickles,  such  as 
Nasturtiums,  Martynias,  and  Melons  for  man¬ 
goes,  may  be  sown  at  once.  Okra  is  a  sub¬ 
tropical  plant,  and  does  quite  well  if  the  seed 
is  put  in  in  June.  By  making  a  succession  of 
sowings,  peas  may  be  had  all  summer.  If  the 
weather  is  dry,  soak  the  peas  before  planting, 
and  water  the  rows.  Salsify  is  best  when  sown 
quite  early,  but  even  now  it  will  give  a  good 
crop.  Spinach  and  Swiss  Chard  may  be  sown, 
which  will  give  greens  all  summer,  and 
“Herbs”  of  all  kinds  maybe  put  in.  Salads 
may  be  had  all  the  season,  by  sowing  Endive 
now.  Lettuce  after  the  summer  heat  is  over, 
and  Corn  Salad  from  July  until  September. 


About  Tastes— A  Frequent  Mistake. 


Several  years  ago,  a  party  of  travelers  in  fhe 
Rocky  Mountains,  foot-sore,  weary,  and  hungry, 
came  upon  a  wild  gi'ape  vine,  loaded  with  clus¬ 
ters.  They  stopped  and  feasted,  and  all  de¬ 
clared  the  grapes  to  be  the  best  they  had  ever 
tasted.  Late  in  the  fall,  on  their  return  east¬ 
ward,  they  brought  home  several  packages  of 
cuttings  for  the  vpropagation  of  this  new  and 
superior  grape.  But  when  it  came  into  bearing, 
all  were  disappointed ;  the  fruit  was  tough,  lack¬ 
ing  in  flavor,  and  every  way  inferior  to  the  ordi¬ 
nary  grapes  of  Eastern  gardens.  Whence  came 
their  disappointment?  Simply  from  the  fact 
that  they  ate  the  Western  grapes  when  they 
were  tired  and  hungry,  and  had  not  seen  any 
fruit  for  many  days,  and  had  nothing  better  at 
hand  as  a  standard  of  comparison. 

Not  long  since,  we  heard  of  a  Fifth  Avenue 
merchant,  who,  after  spending  his  boyhood  and 
5muth  in  New  England,  came  to  New-York  and 
acquired  great  wealth.  But  before  the  prime  of 
life,  his  appetite  and  health  began  to  fail,  and 
he  thought  his  food  would  taste  better  and  that 
he  should  regain  his  health,  if  only  his  food 
could  be  cooked  as  it  was  in  the  old  country 
farm-house.  So  possessed  with  this  idea  was 
he,  that  he  threw  out  of  his  kitchen  his  patent 
coal-cooking  stoves  and  improved  ranges,  and 
tore  down  one  or  two  partitions  in  order  to  build 
in  his  mansion  an  old-fashioned  brick  oven,  to 
be  heated  vith  fine  maple  wood.  This  was 
done  as  commanded,  but  alas !  did  not  bring 
back  his  youthful  relish.  Late  hours,  irregulari¬ 
ty  in  meals,  close  confinement  and  a  burden  of 
care,  had  begotten  d3''spepsia,  and  “  things  didn’t 
taste  now  as  they  used  to,  when  he  was  a  boy !” 

Probably  if  he  spent  his  whole  life  on  the 
farm,  this  jmuthful  relish  vrould  have  been  par¬ 
tially  lost ;  but  simplicity  in  diet,  exercise  in  the 
open  air,  and  regular  hours  for  eating  and  sleep¬ 
ing,  will  do  much  toward  preserving  it. 


Propagation  by  Layers. 


Many  plants  which  do  not  readily  start  from 
cuttings  are  propagated  with  ease  by  layermg. 
The  cutting  has  to  throw  out  roots  from  the 
limited  stock  of  nourishment  contained  within 
itself,  while  the  layer,  retaining  more  or  less 
perfect  connection  with  the  parent  root,  is  sup¬ 
plied  with  nutriment  from  that  source.  The 
readiness  with  which  different  plants  strike 
root  varies  greatly,  some  will  throw  out  roots  if 
a  branch  merely  comes  in  contact  with  the  soil, 


as  is  the  case  with  the  Verbena,  Avhilc  others 
require  considerable  care  to  induce  them  to 
form  roots.  The  grape  vine,  currant,  and  many 
others,  will  root  if  simply  buried  in  well  pre¬ 
pared  soil,  but  the  Rose,  Weigela,  Carnation, 
and  many  other  shrubs  and  herbaceous  plants 
need  to  have  the  buried  portion  wounded  before 
it  will  strike  root.  Layers  from  last  summer’s 
growth  ai-e  made  early  in  spring,  and  that  of 
the  present  season  as  soon  as  it  becomes  partly 
ripened  and  firm.  The  soil  to  receive  the  layer 
should  be  well  prepared,  and  an  opening  made 
to  receive  the  branch,  which  should  be  buried 
three  or  four  inches  deep,  and  pegged  there  by 
means  of  wooden  pins.  The  extreme  end  of 
the  shoot  should  be  turned  up  out  of  the  ground, 
and  kept  in  that  position  by  tying  it  to  a  stake, 
and  the  leaves  can  be  removed  from  the  buried 
portion.  With  those  things  which  do  not  strike 
root  readily,  it  is  necessary  to  cut  a  notch  just 
below  a  bud,  upon  the  buried  portion,  or  a 
tongue,  by  placing  the  knife  just  below  a  bud 
and  cutting  a  slit  upwards,  an  inch  or  two  in 
length,  and  about  half  through  the  stem;  a 
Miver  of  wood,  or  small  pebble,  is  placed  in  the 
slit,  to  .keep  the  wound  from  uniting.  After 
the  stem  is  cut,  it  must  be  handled  with  care, 
else  there  is  danger  of  breaking  it  off  in  placing 
it  in  the  ground.  It  is  usually  recommended  to 
make  the  slit  on  the  lower  side  of  the  stem,  but 
it  answers  just  as  well  to  make  it  on  the  upper 
side,  and  there  is  less  risk  of  breaking.  In  the 
present  month,  Carnations  are  to  be  layered, 
and  choice  Pansies  may  also  be  propagated  in 
this  way.  In  layering  the  Carnation,  select  the 
strongest  shoots  which  proceed  from  the  base 
of  the  plant,  remove  a  few  of  the  lower  leaves, 
and  shorten  the  top  ones  by  cutting  them  off 
evenly  with  a  knife.  Then  slit  the  stem  at  a 
joint,  as  above  directed,  and  lay  down  the  slit 
portion  of  the  stem  in  a  cavity,  one  or  two 
inches  deep,  peg  it  in  place,  and  cover  with  fine 
earth,  keeping  the  head  of  the  layer  upright. 
Convenient  hooked  pegs  may  be  cut  from  the 
stems  of  Asparagus,  or  the  common  Brake. 


The  Currant  Worm— Save  the  Bushes. 

For  several  years  past  the  currant  bushes  have 
been  nearly  destroyed  by  numerous  small  worms 
which  divest  them  of  their  foliage.  As  the  eggs 
from  which  these  worms  spring  are  deposited 
on  the  underside  of  the  leaves,  the  first  indica¬ 
tion  of  their  ravages  will  be  observed  by  many 
small  holes  eaten  tlirough,  and  the  minute  worms 
may  be  seen  making  the  holes  larger. 

The  writer  has  been  accustomed  to  sprinkle 
powdered  white  hellebore  on  the  bushes,  which 
is  an  infallible  remedy,  as  it  destroys  the  worms 
in  a  few  minutes,  and  will  not  injure  the  cur¬ 
rant  bushes  in  the  least.  White  hellebore  can 
be  obtained  at  most  drug  stores,  in  a  powdered 
state,  at  a  few  cents  per  ounce.  To  sprinkle  it 
on  bushes,  put  about  two  tablespoonfuls  into  a 
pepper  or  flour  bo.x,  and  sprinkle  it  lightly  all 
over  the  outside  leaves.  Then  turn  up  the  bush¬ 
es  and  scatter  a  small  quantity  in  the  middle  of 
them.  Let  it  be  spread  as  thinly  as  prac¬ 
ticable,  as  a  quantity  so  small  that  it  can  not  be 
perceived  with  the  naked  eye,  will  check  the 
ravages.  In  the  spring  of  1864  our  gooseberry 
bushes  were  stripped  of  every  leaf,  and  all  the 
branches  were  literally  covered  with  full-sized 
worms.  We  sprinkled  them  lightly  with  white 
hellebore ;  and  in  less  than  two  houi-s  every 
worm  fell  to  the  ground  dead.  Great  care  must 
be  exercised  in  handling  the  hellebore,  as  a  small 
quantity  will  produce  violent  sneezing. 


188 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


A  Brilliant  Annual. — Conwlmlus  minor. 


Every  one  admires  the  climbing  sorts  of  Con¬ 
volvulus,  of  which  the  old-fashioned  Morning 
Glory  is  the  type,  hut  their  beauty  lasts  for  only 
a  few  hours  in  the  morning,  and  they  need  a 
support  to  run  upon.  The  Convolvulus  minor 
does  not  climb,  but  spreads  upon  the  ground 
and  forms  a  mass  of  brilliant  bloom,  and  unless 
the  sun  is  very  scorching,  the  flowers  remain 
open  during  the  greater  part  of  the  day.  The 
engraving  gives  the  shape  and  average  size  of 
the  flower,  though  in  this  last  respect  there  is 
considerable  variation.  The  colors  vary  from 
blue  to  violet  purple  which,  contrasting  with  the 
white  centre,  gives  a  most  lively  effect.  Noth¬ 
ing  can  be  more  showy  than  a  bed  fllled  with 
this  plant,  and  even  single  specimens  add  much 
to  the  brilliant  aspect  of  the  flower  garden. 
The  seeds  should  have  been  sown  in  May,  but  it 
may  be  done  early  in  June  and  secure  a  late 
bloom.  Sow  the  seeds  where  the  plants  are  to 
grow  and  let  them  stand  about  two  feet  apart 
as  their  trailing  branches  spread  in  every  direc¬ 
tion.  The  seeds  are  sold  at  five  and  ten  cents  a 
paper  according  to  the  rarity,  there  being  sev¬ 
eral  varieties  differing  in  color  and  marking. 


Plants  with  Ornamental  Foliage. 

Under  the  rather  absurd  name  of  “foliage 
plants”  a  great  number  of  plants  are  cultivated 
for  the  show  made  by  their  leaves,  rather  than 
for  their  flowers.  These  are  not  of  necessity 
plants  with  variegated  leaves,  but  a  number 
which  have  foliage  of  striking  effect  or  unusual 
luxuriance  are  used.  Many  new  species  have 
been  introduced,  and  there  are  a  number  of  old 
ones  which  should  not  be  neglected.  One  of 
the  commonest  “  foliage  plants,”  as  well  as  one 
of  the  most  striking,  is  the  Oil  plant. 


When  well  grown  it  is 
stately,  has  a  tropical  as¬ 
pect  and  an  expression 
of  health  and  vigor 
which  is  pleasing  to 
see.  There  are  about  a 
dozen  varieties  sold  by 
seedsmen,  which  are  dis¬ 
tinguished  by  difference 
in  the  color  of  stem 
and  fruit,  and  the  shape 
of  the  leaves.  A  single 
plant  of  any  of  these 
produces  a  fine  effect. 
The  old  Curled  Mal¬ 
low,  Malva  crispa,  is  a  fa¬ 
vorite  of  ours  and  were 
it  not  so  common  and 
so  easily  raised  from 
seed  it  would  be  much 
sought  after.  The  Can- 
nas  we  have  before  no¬ 
ticed— they  grow  readily 
from  seed  and  the  roots 
may  be  kept  from  year 
to  year.  Nor  would  we 
forget  the  ornamental 
varieties  of  Kale,  noticed 
and  figured  in  December 
last,  the  leaves  of  which 
present  not  only  beauty 
of  form  but  a  pleas¬ 
ing  variety  of  color. 
We  notice  in  the  recent 
French  Catalogues  a 
number  of  these  fine 
leaved  plants  which  have  not  yet  been  introduc¬ 
ed  here  to  any  extent.  Among  these  are  Aralin 
papyrifera,  Barnbusa  aurea^  Montagnea  lieradei- 
folia,  and  Weigandia  Caucasana.  Of  the  last 
named  we  saw  a  specimen  last  season  at  Ell- 
wanger  &  Barry’s  in  Rochester,  and  were  much 
pleased  with  it.  Some  of  the  grasses,  such  as 
the  Pampas  Qxss&iOynerium  argenteum).,  Arun- 
do  Danax,  and  even  our  common  Reed-grass 
(Phraymites  communis),  are  very  ornamental. 
All  these  plants  admit  of  a  tasteful  arrangement, 
and  a  group  of  them  is  always  showy  and 
pleasing,  and  produces  a  fine  effect  in  mid-sum¬ 
mer — a  time  at  which  we  have  but  few  flowers. 

-  .*1  — e—  »  - - 

Benzine  to  Destroy  Insect  Parasites. 

The  European  journals  mention  the  succesful 
use  of  benzine  to  destroy  the  parasites  which 
infest  dogs,  and  we  have  no  douht  that  it  will 
be  found  equally  efficacious  in  removing  those 
which  trouble  other  animals.  It  has  also  heen 
employed  to  kill  the  minute  insect  which  causes 
the  disease  in  the  human  body  called  scabies — 
commonly  known  as  itch.  When  used  upon 
dogs,  it  has  been  found  to  answer  better  when 
very  much  diluted  than  when  pure.  The  pre¬ 
paration  recommended  is,  benzine  5  parts,  soap 
10  parts,  and  water  85  parts,  which  is  about 
equivalent  to  benzine  1  oz.,  soap  2  oz.,  and  water 
1  pint.  It  is  proper  to  state  that  we  have  not 
tried  this  preparation.  It  is  given  on  very  good 
authority,  and  we  cannot  see  that  any  harm  can 
result  from  its  use  upon  animals^  especially  as 
the  pure  benzine  is  used  with  safety  in  treating 
human  patients  affiicted  by  parasites.  We  pro¬ 
pose  to  try  the  dilute  preparation  upon  plants, 
when  insects  make  their  appearance,  and  hope 
others  will  make  experiments  wdth  it,  and 
report  the  results.  It  will  be  well  to  proceed 
cautiously  with  it  at  first,  and  try  it  upon  some 


plant  of  no  great  value.  It  should  be  borne  in 
mind  that  benzine  is  very  volatile,  and  that  the  [  | 
vapors  of  it  are  very  inflammable,  and  care  i 
should  be  taken  to  guard  against  accidents.  A  ' 
very  small  quantity,  even  the  vapor,  will  kill  | : 
insects.  We  had,  a  short  time  ago,  neglected 
woolens  which  were  badly  infested  with  moths, 
and  as  the  material  was  past  saving,  we  wished  i 
to  destroy  the  crop  of  moths  and  prevent  their  ; 
spreading.  The  articles  were  put  into  a  trunk,  j 
and  about  an  ounce  of  benzine  was  sprinkled 
over  them,  and  the  trunk  closed  tightly.  Upon 
examination  the  next  day,  not  a  living  moth  j 
could  be  found,  so  thorough  was  the  work.  , 


The  Sand-box  Tree. — Hur a  crepitans. 


A  few  days  ago  we  received  from  Dr.  White, 
Surgeon  to  the  Panama  R.  R.  Co.,  at  Panama,  , 
a  parcel  containing  a  number  of  seed  vessels  or  j 
fruits  of  the  Sand-box  Tree.  One  of  these  is  ! 
figured  below  of  nearly  the  natural  size,  with  j 
the  stem  removed  to  better  show  the  open-  | 
work  around  the  place  where  it  is  inserted.  The  * 
tree  which  bears  this  fruit  is  a  native  of  tropi-  j  | 
cal  America.  The  texture  of  the  wood  is  so  l  i 
weak  that  it  is  said  that  very  large  limbs  will  : 
break  from  a  sudden  gust  of  wind.  The  juice 
of  the  tree  possesses  poisonous  properties  and  I 
will  blister  the  skin.  The  tree  is  chiefly  inter¬ 
esting  for  its  remarakble  fruit,  which  when  its 
leathery  covering  is  r  emoved,  presents  the  ap-  I 
pearance  shown  in  the  figure,  and  looks  more 
like  an  ornament  carved  out  of  soiho  olive  co-  ' 
lored  wood  than  it  does  like  a  natural  produc-  i 
tion.  The  white  lines  vffiich  radiate  so  reg¬ 
ularly  from  the  hole  left  by  the  stem,  form 
a  pleasing  contrast  with  the  darker  color  of  the 
rest;  they  have  between  them  open  spaces, 
which  communicate  with  the  interior.  The 
whole  thing  is  so  pleasing  in  color,  and  S3'm- 
metrical  in  form  that  it  makes  a  very  pretty  or¬ 
nament  to  put  upon  the  mantle  piece.  We  say 
put  upon  the  mantle  piece,  but  not  to  keep  ‘ 
there,  for  when  it  gets  thoroughly  dry  the  whole 


thing  goes  off  with  a  bang,  and  scatters  its  frag¬ 
ments  all  over  the  room.  This  fruit  consists  of 
numerous  one-seeded  woody  pods,  joined  togeth¬ 
er  around  a  stem;  the  backs  of  these  pods  form 
the  ridges,  while  the  line  upon  the  ridges  shows 
where  the  two  halves  of  the  pods  join.  When 
the  explosion  takes  place,  these  pods  not  only 
separate  from  one  another,  but  their  halves 
split  apart,  making  twice  as  many  pieces  as 
there  are  ridges,  and  the  scattering  of  these  and 
the  large  seeds,  together  with  the  noise  of  the 
explosion  is  quite  startling.  The  name.  Sand¬ 
box,  was  probably  given  the  fruit  from  some  re¬ 
semblance  to  the  vessels  formerly  used  for  hold¬ 
ing  sand  to  sprinkle  over  writing;  the  people 
in  Central  America  call  them  “  Monkeys’  Dinner 
Bells.”  This  is  one  of  the  many  expedients 
nature  uses  for  scattering  the  seeds  of  plants. 


isas.j 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


189 


The  Dandelion  and  its  Uses. 


Most  persons  look  upon  the  Dandelion  as  a 
■weed  to  be  exterminated  rather  than  as  a  plant 
to  be  cultivated.  Though  not  a  native  of  this 
country,  it  has  kept  pace  ‘with  civilization,  and 
is  to  be  found  almost  everywhere.  Every  mead¬ 
ow  and  grass  plot  is  studded  with  its  bright 
yellow  blossoms  in  spring,  and  those  who  look 
upon  it  as  a  troublesome  weed  will  have  to 
content  themselves  with  trying  to  crowd  it  out 
by  better  plants,  for  unless  they  can  bribe  the 
winds  to  not  blow  about  the  seeds,  they  have  a 
hopeless  task  in  attempting  to  exterminate  it. 
The  Dandelion  is  so  common  a  plant  that  we 
are  accustomed  to  overlook  its  beauty,  yet  our 
engraving  shows  that  its  leaves  are  not  inele¬ 
gant,  while  its  flowers  are  quite  as  pretty  as 
many  we  cultivate  for  ornament.  Nor  is  the 
globular  head  of  ripened  fruits  the  least  inter¬ 
esting  part  of  the  plant.  Each  little  one-seeded 
fruit  has  a  delicate  little  long  handled  parasol 
made  up  of  hairs  attached  to  it ;  a  contrivance 
well  adapted  to  aid  in  its  distribution  by  the 
winds.  The  leaves  vary  greatly  according  to 
the  situation  in  which  the  plant  grows,  but  they 
are  all  marked  with  strong  tooth-like  notches 
which  suggested  one  of  the  French  names  of 
the  plant.  Dent  c?6  lion  (lion’s  tooth),  from  which 
is  derived  our  word  Dandelion.  The  leaves  of 
the  Dandelion  are  much  used  as  greens,  and 
when  blanched  they  form  a  salad  not  unlike 
endive.  The  root  is  employed  medicinally,  and 
is  one  of  the  many  articles  used  as  substitutes 
for,  or  to  mix  with  coffee.  The  plant  is  botani¬ 


cally  related  to  both  chicory  and  endive,  and  is 
used  in  a  similar  way.  Those  who  value  it  for 
greens  will  find  it  much  better  to  cultivate  the 
plants  than  to  depend  upon  those  which  grow 
spontaneously,  as  they  are  superior,  and  are 
always  at  hand.  When  the  root  is  required, 
it  should  always  be  taken  up  in  the  fall,  as  then 
it  contains  most  of  the  milky  juice  upon  which 
its  properties  depend.  The  seed  is  sown  in 
May  or  June,  in  well  prepared  ground,  in  drills 
13  or  15  inches  apart.  Thin  to  3  or  4  inches  and 
keep  the  plants  well  cultivated  through  the  sea¬ 
son,  and  they  will  be  tit  for  use  in  the  following 
spring.  According  to  Burr,  if  the  Dandelion  is 
cultivated  for  its  root,  the  sowing  is  made  in 
October,  the  plants  thinned  the  following  June, 
and  kept  free  from  weeds  during  summer,  and 
the  roots  harvested  the  next  October  by  plow¬ 
ing  them  out.  The  roots  are  prepared  for 
market  by  washing,  slicing  and  drying  them. 


Liebig’s  Food  for  Children. 

It  is  stated  that  the  distinguished  chemist,  Liebig, 
finding  that  one  of  his  grandchildren  must  be  raised 
upon  other  food  than  his  mother’s  milk,  and  know¬ 
ing  that  cow’s  milk  was  not  a  suflieieut  substitute, 
devised  a  compound  which,  under  the  name  of 
“  Liebig’s  Soup,”  is  now  considerably  employed  in 
Germany.  It  is  prepared  as  follows  :  “  Half  an 

ounce  of  wheaten  flour  and  an  equal  quantity  of 
malt  flour,  seven  grains  and  a  quarter  of  bicarbon¬ 
ate  of  potash,  and  one  ounce  of  water,  a;re  to  be  well 


mixed ;  five  ounces  of  cow’s  milk  are  then  to  be 
added,  and  the  whole  put  ou  a  gcutle  fire ;  when 
the  mixture  begins  to  thicken  it  is  removed  from 
the  fire,  stirred  during  five  minutes,  heated  and 
stirred  again  till  it  becomes  quite  fluid,  and  finally 
made  to  boil.  After  the  separation  of  the  bran  by 
a  sieve,  it  is  ready  for  use.  By  boiling  it  for  a  few 
minutes  it  loses  all  taste  of  the  flour.”  The  malt 
flour  can  be  prepared  by  pounding  or  grinding  malt 
obtained  from  the  brewers.  The  bicarbonate  of 
potash  is  added  to  give  the  necessary  alkaline  qual¬ 
ity  ;  it  may  be  had  at  the  druggists,  and  should  be 
the  fticarbonate  in  transparent  crystals,  and  not  the 
ordinary  carbonate  in  dull  white  grains. 

- - — - - 

Cheese  Making  from  a  Few  Cows. 


It  is  probable  that  the  great  majority  of  the 
readers  of  the  Agriculturist  keep  less  than  half  a 
dozen  good  milch  cows, — enough  for  good  cheese¬ 
making.  “A  Farmer’s  Wife,”  of  Guernsey  Co., 
Ohio,  sends  us  the  foilowing  account  of  her  simple 
method,  which  we  commend  to  our  readers : — 
“Cheese  making  is  more  profitable  than  butter  mak¬ 
ing  in  the  hot  summer  months,  for  those  who  have 
not  a  good  place  to  set  milk  or  cream.  We  seldom 
keep  more  than  four  cows  ;  and  from  that  number 
we  make  a  cheese  daily,  weighing  from  8  to  10 
pounds.  The  morning’s  miik  is  strained  into  a 
kettle  with  the  night’s  milk,  and  warmed.  Then, 
after  having  the  rennet  soaked  a  day  or  week  pre¬ 
vious,  pour  in  as  much  as  will  curdle  it  in  15  or  20 
minutes,  but  not  sooner,  as  too  much  makes  the 
cheese  dry,  and  apt  to  crack.  A  little  experience 
here,  however,  is  all  that  is  necessary,  as  it  would 
be  impossible  to  tell  the  exact  amount  of  rennet 
to  the  quantity  of  milk,  owing  to  the  great  differ¬ 
ence  in  the  quality  of  rennet.  Stir  it  together,  and, 
when  curdled,  let  it  stand  five  or  ten  minutes.  Then 
cut  the  curd  in  slices  with  a  knife,  about  one  inch 
thick,  and  cut  crosswise  in  the  same  manner. 
Place  the  kettle  again  on  the  fire  ;  put  the  hand  in 
down  to  the  bottom,  stirring  it  gently,  so  as  that 
the  whole  shall  be  heated  evenly,  considerably 
more  than  milk  warm.  This  will  separate  the 
whey  from  the  curd.  Remove  the  kettle  from  the 
fire,  and  let  it  stand  a  minute.  Dip,  or  pour  off  the 
whey  ou  the  top,  and  pour  the  curd  into  a  large 
butter-bowl.  Salt  to  suit  the  taste.  Then  cut  flue 
with  a  knife,  and  put  it  in  a  crock,  and  set  it  in  a 
cool  place.  If  you  have  not  such  a  place,  put  in 
salt  enough  for  the  next  curd,  which  will  preserve 
it  until  the  next  morning.  Then  make  another 
curd  in  the  same  way,  and  mix  well  together,  and 
put  to  press.  I  prefer  this  method,  for  two  reasons. 
First,  while  making  cheese,  the  family  can  be  pro¬ 
vided  with  milk  and  butler.  Secondly,  the  cheese 
needs  some  attention  after  putting  to  press,  which 
can  better  be  .attended  to  in  the  morning.  I  use 
the  lever  press  in  preference  to  the  screw,  because 
the  weight  is  constantly  pressing,  whereas  the 
screw  presses  strongest  at  first.  The  weight 
should  be  light  at  first  and  gradually  increased; 
and,  if  desirable,  the  cheese  may  be  taken  out  the 
same  evening  .and  turned,  after  washing  the  cloth 
(which  should  be  of  linen),  and  put  back  to  press 
until  morning,  when  it  may  be  taken  out  and  rub¬ 
bed  well  with  butter,  and  placed  on  an  airy  shelf 
.and  turned  and  rubbed  daily.  I  prefer  letting  it 
remain  until  morning  before  turning,  as  the  cloth 
will  then  come  off  readily,  leaving  the  cheese  per¬ 
fectly  smooth.  It  should  then  be  put  back  to  re¬ 
main  until  next  morning.  Cheese  made  after  the 
above  directions,  and  pressed  in  this  way,  will 
seldom  crack,  or  be  injured  by  the  cheese-fly ;  but 
if  any  should  crack,  rub  them  well  with  flour. 

“  Cheese,  but  little  inferior  to  the  best  quality, 
may  be  made  from  the  milk  of  two  or  three  cows, 
by  straining  the  night’s  milk  altogether  into  a 
vessel  sufficiently  large  to  hold  it,  as  but  little 
cream  will  rise  when  a  large  quantity  of  milk  is 
contained  in  a  deep  vessel.  Whatever  does  rise 
should  be  removed,  as  it  will  run  off  in  the  whey. 
Add  the  morning’s  milk,  and  proceed  as  above. 
A  very  simple,  but  rude  press  may  be  constructed 
by  any  farmer’s  wife  in  five  minutes,  which  will 


190 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[June, 


\ 


subserve  a  good  purpose.  Place  the  cheese  on  a 
piece  of  a  broad  bo.ard,  a  little  incliued,  and  use  a 
fence  rail  for  a  lever,  placing  one  end  under  a  build¬ 
ing,  or  any  other  structure  of  sufficient  weight,  and 
on  the  other  end  lean  a  couple  of  rails,  or  hang  a 
pail  of  stones.  Cheese  should  be  pressed  only 
hard  enough  to  remove  the  whey.  A  little  practice 
will  make  perfect.  While  pressing,  the  cheese 
should  always  be  kept  shaded  from  the  sun.  I 
think  we  are  inexcusable  if  we  have  not  our  tables 
bountifully  supplied  with  this  most  wholesome, 
palatable,  and  nutritious  article  of  food.” 

■  m  <  I  » 

Pure  Butter. 


The  fresh  sweet  pastures  of  June,  furnishing  that 
abundance  of  succulent  feed  which  new  milch  cows 
need  to  give  rich  milk  in  abundance,  make  this 
month  pre-eminently  the  butter  month.  We  pre¬ 
sent  herewith  the  views  of  a  good  butter  maker  ex¬ 
pressed  in  a  communication  by  “  H.  A.  H.,”  which 
has  lain  for  some  time  on  our  table:  “I  am  very 
particular  about  thoroughly  scalding  and  sunning 
my  pans  in  hot  weather;  do  not  fill  them  more  than 
half  full,  and  skim  after  the  milk  thickens  sufficient¬ 
ly  so  that  the  cream  will  come  off  smooth  without 
taking  any  milk  with  it,  which,  I  thiuk,  is  apt  to 
make  curdles  in  the  butter,  and  that  injures  the 
looks  of  it.  Churning  should  be  done  every  day, 
if  sufficient  cream  be  obtained.  If  not,  the  cre.am 
in  the  pot  should  be  thoroughly  stirred  whenever 
any  is  added,  and  I  add  a  little  salt,  which  certainly 
is  not  a  bad  idea.  I  design,  when  I  churn,  to  have 
the  cream  the  right  temperature,  neither  too  warm 
nor  too  cold,  so  as  to  avoid  putting  in  any  warm  or 
cold  water,  and  as  soon  as  it  is  gathered  I  take  it 
out  and  wash  it  in  cold  water  until  it  is  thoroughly 
freed  from  buttermilk ;  salt  it  to  my  taste,  and  set 
it  in  a  cool  place  until  the  next  morning,  when  I 
work  it  over  again  until  it  presents  a  firm  and  uni¬ 
form  appearance.  Last  summer  I  worked  my  but¬ 
ter  three  times  before  packing.  At  the  last  work¬ 
ing  I  add  a  small  quantity  more  of  s.alt.  After  pack¬ 
ing  it  smoothly  I  sprinkle  a  tablespoonful  of  loaf 
sugar  and  a  little  salt  over  the  top  between  every 
layer,  and  apply  on  the  top  of  that  a  cloth  pressed 
down  closely  to  keep  the  air  from  it  during  the 
time  that  must  intervene  before  the  packing  of 
the  next  layer.  After  the  jar  or  firkin  is  well 
filled,  I  put  the  cloth  on  the  top  and  apply  an¬ 
other  thicker  one,  and  fill  up  with  salt  packed 
tightly,  and  even  with  the  top  of  the  jar ;  then  lay 
on  another  cloth  to  fit  the  top.  I  also  put  another 
one  over  the  jar  and  have  it  come  over  the  edge 
and  paste  it  tight  to  the  jar,  then  put  on  a  board 
and  weight.  Or  another  way  :  Instead  of  putting 
in  salt  I  take  melted  butter  and  turn  in  on  the  thin 
cloth  even  full,  and  lastly,  apply  salt  sprinkled  over 
the  top  before  putting  on  the  last  cloth  and  weight. 
Then  ag.ain,  I  have  had  butter  keep  well  after 
packing  thoroughly  as  I  h.ave  stated,  to  fill  up  the 
top  of  the  jar  with  strong  brine,  which  should  stand 
two  inches  deep  on  the  top  without  being  filled  up 
with  butter,  and  it  is  necessary  to  put  a  little 
saltpetre  in  the  brine.  Any  one,  whether  he  has  a 
very  good  place  to  keep  butter  or  not,  if  he  attend 
to  the  strict  observance  of  these  rules,  can  have 
good  butter  and  keep  it  for  months,  and  that 
through  the  hottest  weather.” 


Fault-finding  witli  Children. 

Mrs.  H.  B.  Stowe,  in  the  Atlantic  Monthly,  has 
done  a  good  service  for  both  parents  and  children 
in  exposing  this  common  mistake.  The  following 
extract  conveys  the  pith  of  her  views  on  the  subject: 

“Children  are  more  hurt  by  indiscriminate, 
thoughtless  fault-finding  than  by  any  other  one 
thing.  Often  a  child  has  all  the  sensitiveness  and 
all  the  susceptibility  o-f  a  grown  person,  added  to 
the  faults  of  childhood.  Nothing  about  him  is  right 
ns  yet;  he  is  imm.aturc  and  faulty  at  all  points,  and 
everybody  feels  at  perfect  liberty  to  criticise  him 
to  right  and  left,  above  and  below,  till  he  takes  re¬ 
fuge  in  callous  hardiness  or  irritable  moroscuess. 


“  A  bright,  noisy  boy  rushes  in  from  school,  eager 
to  tell  his  mother  something  he  has  on  his  heart, 
and  Number  One  cries  out — ‘Oh,  you’ve  left  the 
door  open !  I  do  wish  you  wouldn’t  always  leave 
the  door  open  !  And  do  look  at  the  mud  on  your 
shoes  !  How  many  times  must  I  tell  you  to  wipe 

your  feet  ?’ - ‘  Now  there  you’ve  thrown  your 

cap  on  the  sofa  again.  When  will  you  learn  to  hang 

it  up  ?’ - ‘  Don’t  put  your  slate  there  ;  that  isn’t 

the  place  for  it.’ - ‘How  dirty  your  hands  are! 

what  have  you  been  doing  ?’ - ‘  Don’t  sit  in  that 

chair  ;  you  break  the  springs  bouncing.’ - ‘  Mer¬ 

cy  !  how  your  hair  looks !  Do  go  up-stairs  and 

comb  it.’ - ‘There,  if  you  haven’t  torn  the  braid 

all  off  your  coat !  Dear  me,  what  a  boy  1’ — ‘  Don’t 
speak  so  loud  ;  your  voice  goes  through  my  head.’ 
— ‘I  want  to  know,  Jim,  if  it  was  you  that  broke 
up  that  barrel  that  I  have  been  saving  for  brown 
fiour.’ — ‘I  believe  it  was  you,  Jim,  that  hacked  the 
side  of  my  razor.’ — ‘  Jim’s  been  writing  at  my 
desk,  and  blotted  three  sheets  of  the  best  paper.’ — 
Now  the  question  is,  if  any  of  the  grown  people 
of  the  fiimily  had  to  run  the  gauntlet  of  a  string  of 
criticisms  on  themselves  equally  true  as  those  that 
salute  unlucky  Jim,  would  they  be  any  better  na- 
tured  about  it  than  he  is  ?  No  ;  but  they  are  grown 
up  people  ;  they  have  rights  that  others  are  bound 
to  respect.  Everybody  can  not  tell  them  exactly 
what  he  thinks  about  everything  they  do.  If  every 
one  did,  would  there  not  be  terrible  reactions  ?” 


Something  about  Perfumes. 


People  will  persist  in  using  perfumes,  and  if  they 
would  only  use  the  delicate  ones  of  flowers  it  would 
not  be  so  objectionable,  but  when  it  comes  to  musk, 
which  suggests  skunk,  and  bergamot,  that  savors 
of  barber  shops,  we  think  perfumes  had  better  be 
dispensed  with.  It  is  the  common  belief  th.at  all 
perfumes  are  distilled  from  the  plants  and  flowers 
the  names  of  which  they  bear,  but  this  is  not  the 
case.  Though  many  are  obtained  from  woods, 
barks  and  seeds  by  the  operation  of  distillation,  the 
oils  of  orange,  lemon,  and  bergamot  are  obtained 
by  expressing  the  rinds  of  those  fruits.  In  separa¬ 
ting  the  delicate  odors  of  flowers  a  quite  different 
process  is  generally  resorted  to,  founded  upon  the 
fact  that  the  fragrance  of  the  flower  continues  to  be 
exhaled  as  long  as  it  remains  alive,  and  upon  the 
property  possessed  by  pure  fats  of  absorbing  this 
odoroTis  exhalation.  This  process  is  largely  carried 
on  in  the  South  of  France,  and  is  called  Enfleur- 
age."  Square  wooden  trays  are  formed  by  setting 
p.anes  of  glass  in  wooden  frames  which  are  about 
two  inches  high,  so  that  when  two  of  these  are 
placed  one  over  the  other,  there  will  be  a  space  of 
four  inches  between  the  two  glasses.  The  fresh 
butter,  lard,  suet,  or  whatever  grease  is  used,  and 
which  must  be  as  pure  as  possible,  is  spread  over 
the  glass  bottom  of  one  of  these  trays,  the  flowers 
placed  in  it,  and  a  similarly  prepared  tray  covered 
over  it.  The  flowers  remain  here  for  a  day  or  two, 
when  they  are  removed  and  replaced  by  fresh  ones. 
The  same  grease  remains  in  the  tr.ay  as  long  as  the 
season  of  blossoming  of  the  particular  plant  lasts, 
it  being  worked  over  with  a  knife,  so  as  to  present 
a  fresh  surface  every  time  fresh  flowers  are  put 
in.  In  this  way  large  quantities  of  grease  are  pre¬ 
pared  strongly  flavored  with  the  perfume  of  Orange 
flowers.  Jasmine,  Tuberose,  Violets,  etc.,  which  is 
used  for  perfuming  pomades,  or  to  impart  its  fra¬ 
grance  to  alcohol,  and  thus  form  the  various  liquid 
scents  or  essences.  The  perfumed  Art  being  infused 
in  alcohol  for  several  weeks,  imparts  all  its  odor  to 
that  liquid,  while  none  of  the  fat  is  dissolved  by  it. 
Many  of  the  perfumes  sold  under  fanciful  names 
are  combinations  made  by  mixing  the  various  ex¬ 
tracts.  Some  of  these  are  made  to  imitate  the  per¬ 
fumes  of  flowers,  such  .as  Sweet  Pea,  while  others 
like  “Jockey  Club,”  “West  End,”  etc.,  are  agree¬ 
able  compounds  not  made  to  imitate  any  natural 
odor.  Some  of  the  names  are  exceedingly  imagi¬ 
native;  “  Night-blooming  Ccreus  ”  for  instance,  is 
a  mere  flincy  n.ame  to  a  compound  perfume,  which 
bc.ars  no  resemblance  in  odor  to  the  flower  .after 
which  it  is  c.allcd.  Indeed  there  are  probably  not 


flowers  enough  of  the  Cereus  produced  in  the  coun¬ 
try  in  a  year  to  make  a  dozen  bottles  of  the  per¬ 
fume  which  bears  this  name.  Those  who  have 
an  abundance  of  fragrant  flowers  can  make  the 
experiment  of  extracting  their  odors  by  spread¬ 
ing  the  grease  upon  dinner  plates,  filling  one  with 
flowers  and  inverting  another  one  over  it. 

- — *-• - 

About  Lightning  Eods. 


From  the  letters  we  receive  asking  information 
about  lightning  rods  it  is  evident  that  there  is  suf¬ 
ficient  interest  felt  in  the  matter  to  warrant  us  in 
devoting  considerable  sp.ace  to  it.  No  one  who  has, 
a  house  or  barn  can  .afford  to  neglect  the  protection 
which  a  properly  constructed  lightning  rod  will 
give.  There  are  numerous  kinds  of  patent  light¬ 
ning  conductors,  each  claimed  by  the  inventor  to 
be  superior  to  all  others.  We  cannot  decide  upon 
the  merits  of  these  riv.al  inventions,  but  can  do  our 
readers  much  better  service  by  pointing  out  the 
essentials  of  a  good  lightning  rod.  The  following 
was  prepared  some  years  ago  by  Prof.  Henry,  the 
distinguished  physicist,  who  has  given  especial 
study  to  electricity,  and  it  appears  to  be  perfectly 
plain  and  to  cover  the  whole  ground. 

“1st.  The  rod  should  consist  of  round  iron,  of 
not  less  than  three  fourths  of  an  inch  in  diameter. 
A  larger  size  is  preferable  to  a  smaller  one. 

“  3d.  It  should  be,  through  its  whole  length,  in 
perfect  metallic  continuity’ ;  as  many  pieces  should 
be  joined  together  by  welding,  as  practicable,  and 
when  other  joinings  are  unavoidable,  they  should 
be  m.ade  by  screwing  the  parts  firmly  together  by  a 
coupling  ferule,  care  being  t.aken  to  m.ake  the  upper 
connection  of  the  latter  with  the  rod  water-tight, 
by  cement,  solder,  or  paint. 

“3d.  To  secure  it  from  rust,  the  rod  should  be 
covered  with  a  coating  of  black  paint. 

“4th.  It  shorjld  be  terminated  above,  with  a  single 
point,  the  cone  of  which  should  not  be  too  acute, 
and  to  preserve  it  from  the  weather  as  well  as  to 
prevent  melting,  it  should  be  encased  with  plati¬ 
num,  formed  by  soldering  a  plate  of  this  metal,  not 
less  than  a  twentieth  of  .an  inch  in  thickness,  into 
the  form  of  a  hollow  cone. 

“.5th.  The  shorter  and  more  direct  the  rod  is  in 
its  course  to  the  earth,  the  better.  Acute  angles 
made  by  bending  the  rod  and  projecting  points 
from  it  along  its  course  should  be  avoided. 

“6th.  It  should  be  fastened  to  the  house  by  iron 
eyes,  and  may  be  insulated  by  cylinders  of  glass. 
We  do  not  think  the  latter,  however,  of  much  im¬ 
portance,  since  they  soon  become  wet  by  w.ater, 
and  in  case  of  a  heavy  discharge  are  burst  asunder. 

“7th.  The  rod  should  be  connected  with  the  earth 
in  the  most  perfect  manner  possible,  and  in  cities 
nothing  is  better  for  this  purpose  than  to  unite  it 
in  good  metallic  contact  with  the  gas  mains  or 
Large  water  pipes  in  the  streets  ;  and  such  a  connec¬ 
tion  is  absolutely  necessary  if  the  gas  or  w.ater 
pipes  are  in  use  within  the  house.  This  connec¬ 
tion  c.an  be  made  by  soldering  to  the  end  of  the 
rod  a  strip  of  copper,  which,  after  being  wr.appcd 
sever.al  times  .around  the  pipe,  is  perm.ancntly  at¬ 
tached  to  it.  Where  a  connection  with  the  ground 
cannot  be  formed  in  this  w.ay,  the  rod  should 
terminate,  if  possible,  in  a  well  alw.ays  containing 
water,  and  where  this  arrangement  is  not  practica¬ 
ble,  it  should  terminate  in  a  pl.ate  of  iron  or  some 
other  metal  buried  in  the  moist  ground.  It  should, 
before  it  descends  to  the  earth,  be  bent  so  as  to 
pass  off  nearly  perpendicular  to  the  side  of  the 
house,  and  be  buried  in  a  trench  surrounded  with 
powdered  charco.al, 

“8th.  The  rod  should  be  placed,  in  preference,  on 
the  west  side  of  the  house,  in  this  latitude,  and 
especially  on  the  chimney  from  which  a  current  of 
he.ated  air  ascends  during  the  summer  season. 

“9th.  In  case  of  a  small  house,  a  single  rod  m.ay 
suffice,  provided  its  point  be  sufficiently  high  above 
the  roof,  the  rule  being  observed,  that  its  elev.ation 
should  be  at  least  h.alf  of  the  distance  to  which  its 
protection  is  expected  to  extend.  It  is  safer,  how¬ 
ever,  particularly  in  modern  houses  in  which  a 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


191 


large  amount  of  iron  enters  into  the  construction, 
to  make  the  distance  between  two  rods  less  than 
this  rule  would  indicate,  rather  than  more.  Indeed 
we  see  no  objection  to  an  indefinite  multiplication 
of  rods  to  a  house,  provided  they  are  all  properly 
connected  with  the  ground  and  with  each  other. 
A  building  entirely  inclosed,  as  it  were,  in  a  case  of 
iron  rods  so  connected  with  the  earth,  would  be 
safe  from  the  direct  action  of  the  lightning. 

10th.  When  a  house  is  covered  by  a  metallic 
roof,  the  latter  should  be  united,  in  good  metallic 
connection,  with  the  lightning  rods ;  and  in  this 
ease  the  perpendicular  pipes  conveying  the  water 
from  the  gutters  at  the  eaves  may  be  made  to  act 
the  part  of  rods  by  soldering  strips  of  copper  to 
the  metal  roof  and  pipes  above,  connecting  them 
with  the  earth  by  plates  of  metal  united  by  similar 
strips  of  copper  to  their  lower  ends,  or  better  with 
the  gas  or  water-pipes  of  the  city.  In  this  case, 
however,  the  chimneys  would  be  unprotected,  and 
copper  lightning  rods  soldered  to  the  roof,  and  ris¬ 
ing  a  few  feet  above  the  chimneys,  would  suffice 
to  receive  the  discharge.  We  say  soldered  to  the 
roof,  because  if  the  contact  was  not  very  per¬ 
fect,  a  greater  intensity  of  action  would  take  place 
at  this  point,  and  the  metal  might  be  burnt  through 
by  the  discharge,  particularly  if  it  were  thin. 

“  11th.  As  a  general  rule,  large  masses  of  melal 
within  the  building,  particularly  those  which  have 
a  perpendicular  elevation,  ought  to  be  connected 
with  the  rod.” 


Extermination  of  Eed  Ants. 


“  N.  H.,”  of  Albany,  N.  T.,  inquires  for  a  remedy 
for  expelling  red  ants  when  they  have  gained  pos¬ 
session  of  a  dwelling.  If  they  can  find  convenient 
refuge  in  the  walls  of  a  house,  it  will  require  a  long 
time  to  exterminate  them.  If  the  house  be  new, 
and  the  door  and  window  casing  and  base  boards  fit 
closely,  fill  with  putty  all  the  holes  and  cracks 
where  they  come  in.  Then,  keep  all  kinds  of  food 
in  close  vessels,  so  that  they  will  have  difficulty  to 
find  anything  to  eat.  Procure  two  pieces  of  thin 
boards,  say  two  feet  long,  eight  inches  wide,  and 
fasten  two  edges  together  with  hinges,  so  that  they 
will  close  like  the  covers  of  a  book.  Spre.ad  a  lit¬ 
tle  molasses  on  the  under  board,  and  as  often  as  a 
few  ants  are  seen  on  it,  press  the  upper  board  down 
and  crush  them.  In  a  few  days  they  can  all  be 
destroyed.  Another  way  is  to  put  some  molasses 
into  a  milk  pan,  and  place  a  piece  of  board  against 
the  side  of  it,  so  that  they  can  ascend  to  the  top 
of  the  pan.  They  are  sure  to  tumble  into  the  mo¬ 
lasses  ;  and  can  not  get  out  alone.  Perhaps  the 
best  way  is  one  we  have  previously  published  in 
the  Agricultimst.  Procure  a  large  sponge,  sprinkle 
a  little  sugar  through  it,  and  place  it  ne.ar  the  haunts 
of  ants.  When  a  quantity  of  them  have  collected 
in  the  interstices  they  can  be  killed  in  hot  water, 
the  sponge  dried,  baited  and  set  again.  In  this  way 
whole  armies  of  the  ants  can  be  readily  destroyed. 


Tanning  Fur  Skins. 


Mr.  Byron  Vaughn,  Dupage  Co.,  Ill.,  sends  the 
following  method  of  preparing  skins  with  the  fur  on 
to  the  Amei'ican  AgriculturUt :  The  skins  cleaned  of 
flesh  are  put  in  a  liquid  prepared  thus ;  Upon  1  lb. 
of  hard  wood  ashes,  pour  4  gallons  hot  soft  wa¬ 
ter,  let  stand  for  a  few  hours  and  strain  out  the  li¬ 
quor,  then  add  3  pounds  of  common  salt,  one  fourth 
pound  of  alum,  and  one  pound  of  sulphuric  acid 
(oil  of  vitriol).  The  mixture  is  to  be  made  in  a 
wooden  tub  or  similar  vessel,  and  care  should  be 
exercised  in  handling  the  acid,  that  none  come  in 
contact  with  the  person  or  clothing.  The  skins  are 
placed  in  the  liquid  and  allowed  to  remain  there 
from  one  to  two  hours,  when  they  are  rinsed  and 
hung  out  to  dry.  Mr.  V.  recommends  the  process 
as  cheap  and  satisfactory.  He  does  not  state  if  the 
skins  need  any  oiling  or  other  after-treatment. 


Fnrnitiire  Varmisli, — A  correspondent 
says,  when  black  walnut  or  mahogany-colored  fur¬ 


niture-  becomes  discolored  or  damaged,  any  one 
may;  ataivcag'  small-cost,  “shine  it  up,”  like  new. 
Provide  a  few  cents  worth  of  burnt  amber  and 
Indian  red.  For  mahogany  color,  mix  Indian  red 
with  copal  vanish  till  the  right  color  is  secured ; 
thin  with  benzine,  and  add  a  little  boiled  linseed 
oil  if  it  dries  faster  than  desirable.  For  black  wal¬ 
nut  color,  mix  both  pigments  in  such  proportion 
as  are  necessary. 


Mrs.  Fi’sWayof  Preserving  Strawberries. 

MrSi  F.’s  strawberry  preserves-  are  the  best  in 
the  world.  So  F.  thinks,  and  we  don’t  dispute 
him.  She  has  all  the  strawberries  she  needs, 
and  many  more  go  to  waste  for  w.aut  of  hands  to 
pick  them.  So  large,  firm,  handsome  berries,  such 
as  Wilson’s,  or  Triomphe  de  Gands,  are  selected, 
cleaned  without  bruising,  and  with  these  her  glass 
jars  are  filled.  Then  an  abundance  of  the  highest 
flavored  berries,  as,  for  instance,  Brooklyn  Scarlet, 
Burr’s  New  Pine,  Boston  Pine,  etc.,  are  taken, 
picked  over  with  great  care,  and  washed.  They 
are  mixed  with  sugar,  in  judicious  quantity,  say 
half  a  pound  to  a  pound  for  each  pound  of  fruit; 
then  they  are  put  on  the  fire  and  cooked  as  is  usual 
for  preserving  strawberries.  Then  they  .arc  poured 
out  upon  a  cloth  in  a  colander,  and  all  the  juice 
drained  and  squeezed  out.  While  yet  boiling  hot,  it 
is  poured  into  the  jars  of  fruit,  previously  plaeed  in 
hot  water.  The  jars  are  then  sealed  at  once.  The 
amount  of  sugar  can  be  varied  to  suit  the  taste. 
The  fruit  will  keep  with  more  of  its  n.atural  flavor, 
and  with  less  danger  of  fermentation  without  any 
sugar.  It  can  be  sweetened  as  used  on  the  table. 


IdDYS' 


How  to  Keep  Hood  1%'atm’eil. 


Uncle  William  writes  to  the  American  Agriculturist : 
“How  that  wagon  wheel  creaks.  It  seems  to  be  grumb¬ 
ling  and  moaning  with  pain,  just  as  I  felt  like  doing  when 
I  had  the-rheumatism.  Every  boy  knows  that  It  needs 
grease  or  oil,  to  make  it  run  easy.  If  It  do  not  have  this, 
it  will  tire  everybody  with  the  disagreeable  sound,  and 
soon  be  worn  out.  It  is  just  like  some  people  I  have  met, 
who  needed  oiling  with  good  nature.  They  w  ere  honest, 
industrious,  well  meaning,  and  naturally  affectionate, 
but  oh  1  how  peevish.  There  was  my  neigiibor  Squire 
Savage.  How  I  used,  when  a  boy,  to  dread  to  pass  his 
place.  ‘  What  are  you  staring  at,  hey?’  he  VN-ould  call 
out  if  I  turned  to  look  toward  his  house.  ‘  Stop  your 
noisy  yelp,’  he  siiouted  one  day  as  I  was  singing  on  my 
way  to  school.  Suppose  I  did  annoy  him  a  little  by  my 
childish  ways,  he  would  have  felt  pleasanter,  and  I  cer¬ 
tainly  should,  had  he  given  me  a  kind  word  which  would 
have  cost  him  very  little.  There  was  Peter  Brace,  one 
of  my  school  fellows,  ‘  Peter  Pickles  ’  the  boys  nick¬ 
named  him.  He  was  always  snarling  at  something  or 
somebody.  If  he  granted  a  favor,  he  would  do  it  with 
such  a  snap  that  you  did  not  like  to  ask  him  a  second 
time.  But  I  need  not  speak  of  my  cross  acquaintances, 
most  of  you  have  seen  such  persons,  and  know  that  they 
are  not  favorites.  But  how  can  a  person  keep  good  na- 
tured  ?  1st,  by  making  up  his  mind  that  he  will  act  pleas¬ 
antly  whether  he  feels  so  or  not.  It  may  be  hard  work 
to  do  this  at  times,  but  it  can  be  made  a  habit,  and  appear¬ 
ing  pleasant  will  induce  pleasant  feelings.  2d,  Good 
health  has  much  to  do  with  good  nature.  Preserve  this 
by  good  habits  and  temperance  in  all  things.  3d,  Keep  a 
quiet  conscience  by  trying  to  do  right.— Be  careful  not  to 
mistake  pliancy  for  good  nature.  A  pliant  man  agrees 
with  everbody,  has  little  will  of  his  own,  is  ready  to  fol¬ 
low  every  body’s  suggestions  ;  he  does  not  know  how  to 
say  ‘  No.’  A  good  natured  man  may  be  very  decided  in 
his  opinions  and  yet  offend  none  justly  by  his  expression 
of  them;  he  can  make  ‘No’  pleasanter  by  his  way  of 
saying  it,  than  the  ‘Yes’ of  a  surly  person.  Try  the  oil 
of  good  nature  for  a  month  and  see  how  easily  it  will 
make  the  wheels  of  life  run.” 

February  14tb— Woman’s  Hay. 

In  England  and  in  many  places  in  this  country,  Febru¬ 
ary  14th,  called  Valentine’s  day,  is  celebrated  by  sending 
anonymous  letters,  called  valentines.  The  old  Dutch 
settlers  of  New  York  had  a  different  and  curious  custom. 
Previous  to  that  day  every  school  girl  provided  herself 
with  a  piece  of  cord  of  convenient  size  for  a  whip.  With 
this  she  was  privileged  to  attack  any  boy  she  might  meet 
onthe  14th,  (called  by  them  “Vrowen  Dagh”  or  Woman’s 


Day,)  and  give  him  a  sound  lashing.  It  was  not  fair  to 
have  any  knots  tied  in  the  cord,  and  of  course  no  boy 
■was  permitted  to  strike  back,  or  offer  any  resistance  ;  he 
could  only  use  his  legs  and  run  away  as  fast  as  possible. 
As  the  whole  matter  was  fairlyiunderstood,  it  made  great 
sport.  When  the  boys  applied  for  a  similar  privilege  on 
the  following  day,  they  were  told  that  it  would  defeat  the 
purpose  of  the  custom,  which  was  intended  to  teach  them 
a  lesson  of  manliness,  never  to  raise  their  hands  to  strike 
a  woman.  Probably  it  was  al.so  thought  that  as  the  boys 
were  wont  to  have  things  their  own  way  most  of  the  time, 
it  was  only  fair  lo  let  the  girls  have  full  rule  at  least  one 
day  in  the  year.  The  custom  may  also  have  made  the 
boys  quite  careful  in  their  treatment  of  the  opposite  sex, 
at  least  for  some  time  pr  evious  to  the  14th,  fearful  of  the 
threat  “  I’ll  pay  you  off  on  Woman’s  Day.” 

A  LITTLE  Girl  was  told  “to  spell  ferment,”  and  give 
its  meaning,  with  a  sentence  in  which  it  was  used.  The 
following  was  literally  her  answer:  “  F-e-r-m-e-n-t,  a 
verb,  signifying  to  wor  k.  I  love  to  ferment  in  the  garden'” 

Answer.^  to  Hi-oblcmns  and  Hnzasles. 

The  answer  to  No.  121,  Mathematical  Problem^  in  Feb¬ 
ruary  No.,  page  55,  was  accidentaily  omitted.  1278  is  the 
correct  number.  The  following  are  answers  to  the  puz¬ 
zles,  etc.,  in  the  May  number,  page  159  :  No.  147.  Prob¬ 
lem.— "Viie  dotted  lines  show  \^here  the  figure  is  to  be  cut. 

to  make  the  required  pieces  ; 
a  little  study  will  show  ho-w 
to  .arrange  theni  to  form  a 

square _ No.  148.  Curious 

Sentence. — Who  saw  a  saw 
saw  a  saw  ?  I  saw  a  saw 
saw  a  saw,  but  never  saw  a 
saw  saw  a  saw  as  I  saw 

that  saw  saw  a  saw _ No.  149.— Illustrated  Rebus. — 

Flies  in  when  ewe  can  butt  face  it  if  ewe  must ;  or.  Fly 

sin  when  you  can,  but  face  it  if  you  must _ No.  150. — 1, 

Whole,  hole  ;  2,  spear,  pear  ;  3,  scent,  cent ;  4,  acorn, 
cor  n - No.  151.  Anagrams. — 1,  Idolatar  y  ;  2,  Regula¬ 
tions;  3,  Enigmatically;  4,  Editorial _ No.  152.  French 

Riddle. — Translation.  I  am  of  all  things  in  the  world, 
the  most  holy  ;  remove  my  heart  and  I  am  the  most  bit¬ 
ter.  Answer. — “  Bible,”  r  emove  the  middle  b,  and  bile 
r  emains. ...  No.  153.  Illustrated  Rebus. — April  3d  will 
long  be  regarded  a  great  day  in  the  histoi-y  of  the  United 
States,  and  of  the  world - No.  154.  Mathematical  Prob¬ 
lem.— 5.002  inches _ No.  155.  Mathematical  Problem. — 

5-371trs.  The  following  sent  correct  answers  up  to  May 
10th.  Minne  and  Alice  Mulligan,  137,  141,  143  ;  B.  F. 
Scriven,  146;  E.  A.  Long,  141,  140  ;  N.  Safford,  146;  T. 
S.  McD.,  137  ;  S.  C.  M.,  137,  141  ;  “  W.  F.  B.,”  139,  141  , 
D.  W.  B.  Kuntz,  137  ;  E.  Provost,  153  ;  I.  W.  Beckwith, 
124,  125,  126,  127,  128,133,  134;  Eddie  Sheldon,  150,  153  ; 
Lucy  R.  Weeks,  149,  153  ;  Robt.  G.  Weeks,  149.  150.  153  . 
Fidelia  R.  Lord.  150,  153, 


IVew  Puzzles  to  be  Answered. 

No.  156.  Curious  Sentence. — Write  a  correct  sentence 
with  the  word  “that”  used  seven  times  in  succession. 


No.  157.  Illustrated  Rebus,— A  timely  w'aining  to  all. 
No.  158.  Curious  Latin  Sentences. — 1,  Quis  crudus  pro 
lectum,  album  et  spiravit.  2,  Mens  tuus  ego  et  labor  via. 
3,  Bon®  mali  sunt  desiderabiles.  What  is  the  correct 
translation  ? 


No.  159.  Illustrated  Reins.— Worth  studying  by  boys. 


No.  160.  Conundrums.—  } ,  Why  is  necessity  like  many 
a  pettifogger  ?  2,  Why  was  Lincoln’s  war  policy  the  I'e- 
verse  of  Scipio’s  ?  3,  What  gener  al  has  been  most  pi'O- 
moted  by  the  close  of  the  war  ?  4,  What  country  in 
Europe  contains  the  most  geese  ? 


192 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[JlTNB, 


LEFT  ALONE  AT  HOME.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Whose  portraits  are  these ?  “Not  mine,”  says  Minnie 
who  has  been  sitting  by  her  mother’s  side  sewing  patch- 
work  until  father  brought  the  Agriculturist  from  the  Post 
Office,  which  she  is  now  looking  over.  “  Not  mine,” 
says  Fanny,  who  has  just  come  in  from  a  romp  with  her 
dog  “Dandy.”  “  No  indeed,  I  wouldn’t  do  such  a  thing 
as  to  go  to  mamma’s  closet  and  take  the  preserves.” 
One  little  girl  looking  at  this  picture  says  nothing,  but 
blushes  while  she  thinks  about  the  lu  mps  of  sugar  she  has 
sometimes  slily  taken.  And  there  Is  a  boy  who  remem¬ 
bers  how  he  loved  peaches  more  than  honesty  one  day 
last  summer,  and  helped  himself  from  his  neighbor’s  tree. 
The  sugar  and  the  peaches  tasted  good  then,  but 
the  thoughts  of  them  now  are  bitter,  and  will  be  for  a 
long  time  unless  the  sin  Is  confessed  and  forgiven.  When 
a  small  splinter  is  thrust  into  the  flesh  the  wound  will  re¬ 
main  painful  until  the  splinter  is  taken  out,  then  it  will 
quickly  heal.  Just  so  with  concealed  guilt ;  confession 
will  best  remove  it  and  bring  peace  of  mind.  The  chil¬ 
dren  in  the  picture  will  very  soon  be  found  out ;  the  daubs 
and  stains  on  their  faces  and  clothes  will  tell  the  story, 
and  if  they  should  fail  to,  the  little  one  peeping  from  be¬ 
hind  the  closet  door  will  hardly  keep  the  secret.  Then, 
when  deserved  punishment  comes,  the  recollection  of 
the  sweets  will  do  little  to  soften  the  pain.  In  small  or 
great  actions  wrong-doing  never  pays, 

“A  Oood  Hoy  Wanted.” 

A  gentleman  in  this  city  lately  inserted  an  advertise¬ 
ment  with  the  above  heading  in  one  of  the  daily  papers. 
Upon  entering  his  office  the  next  morning,  there  stood  a 
crowd  of  forty  or  fifty  boys  waiting  to  see  him.  All  were 
strangers,  and  of  course  it  was  rather  difficult  to  select 
the  best  one  of  the  company.  But  there  were  a  few  signs 
by  which  it  could  be  decided  at  once  that  many  of  these 
lads  were  not  wanted,  from  which  our  young  friends  may 
take  a  hint.  Several  of  the  boys  had  uncombed  hair  and 
unwashed  hands  and  faces.  If  they  could  not  keep  their 
own  persons  neat  they  would  not  be  likely  to  do  their 
work  nicely  ;  so  these  were  passed  over  without  further 
notice.  One  boy  looked  bright  and  smart,  but  ho  kept 
crowding  his  way  to  the  front  of  all  others,  and  thrusting 
himself  ipto  notice.  It  w  as  readily  seen  that  he  was  too 
'  “  ^mav't,'’  he  would  pfobabl'y  pyove  pert  arid  saucy.  Then 


came  a  boy  with  a  book  peeping  out  of  his  breast  pocket 
— a  cheap  trashy  novel — he  was  not  wanted ;  his  mind 
would  be  following  the  hero  of  the  wonderful  story, 
through  impossible  adventures,  while  his  work  suffered. 
One  boy  fell  to  quarreling  with  his  neighbor ;  another 
had  to  be  repri.-nanded  for  meddling  with  articles  in  the 
office ;  a  third  chewed  tobacco  ;  neither  of  these  was 
wanted.  From  the  few  remaining  after  dismissing  the 
above  classes,  the  boy  was  selected  who  could  bring  the 
best  testimonials  of  honesty,  intelligence  and  industry; 
so  you  may  see  a  good  name  is  worth  much,  and  a  good 
character  will  be  sure  sooner  or  later  to  bring  a  good 
reputation  and  its  rewards. 

About  Sleep. 

Every  act  of  the  body  or  mind  wears  the  organs  or 
parts  used.  The  arms  of  the  mechanic,  the  legs  of  the 
traveler,  the  brain  of  the  student  would  soon  be  destroy¬ 
ed,  if  the  worn-out  particles  were  not  replaced  by  new 
ones  derived  from  the  food.  During  waking  hours, 
waste  or  ioss  in  the  body  goes  on  faster  than  it  can  be  re¬ 
paired  ;  but  after  twelve  to  sixteen  hours  of  activity,  the 
faculties  begin  to  work  heavily,  and  at  last  refuse  to  obey 
the  will.  The  eyes  close  in  spite  of  the  strongest  efforts 
to  keep  them  open  ;  the  ears  will  not  carry  sounds  to  tlie 
brain,  the  limbs  refuse  to  move,  and  the  person  sleeps. 
It  is  possible  by  great  mental  effort,  or  excitement,  or  by 
taking  stimulants,  to  prevent  sleep  for  hours  or  even  days, 
but  finally  it  can  not  be  resisted.  Soldiers  have  slept  on 
the  ground  with  a  battle  fiercely  raging  around  them.  It 
is  related  that  during  Napoleon’s  retreat  from  Moscow, 
wearied  soldiers  would  often  fall  asleep  in  the  ranks 
while  marching,  and  in  some  instances  continue  to  walk 
unconsciously  for  a  long  distance.  During  the  bombard¬ 
ment  of  Fort  St.  Philip,  on  the  Mississippi  River,  guns 
of  very  heavy  caliber  were  used,  which  made  a  tre¬ 
mendous  and  deafening  report  at  each  discharge  ;  but 
the  arlillerymen  who  were  working  them,  when  exhaust¬ 
ed  and  replaced  by  others,  lay  down  on  the  decks  of  the 
boats  containing  the  guns  and  slept  soundly  through  all 
the  firing.  During  sleep  only  the  necessary  functions  of 
the  body,  as  breathing,  circulation  of  the  blood,  etc.,  are 
carried  on,  and  as  these  do  not  consume  all  the  pow¬ 
er  supplied  to  the  body  by  the  food,  a  stock  is  laid  up  ( 


for  use  upon  waking.  Children  require  more  sleep  than 
older  persons,  because  much  of  their  food  is  appropriated 
in  adding  to  their  growth,^nd  also  because  of  their  great 
er  activity.  Young  persons  need  from  ten  to  twelve 
hours  sleep  in  the  twenty-four ;  adults  from  six  to  eight 
hours,  depending  upon  the  constitution  and  habits  of  the 
Individual.  Although  too  much  sleep  is  hurtful,  it  is  less 
so  than  too  little ;  in  the  latter  case  there  Is  rapid  ex¬ 
haustion  of  the  vital  power,  and  a  person  grows  old  fast. 

The  ffirst  X.ocomoti'Fej^Pnfliiig  Billy.’ 

In  the  year  1812,  in  England,  there  was  great  scarcity 
of  food  for  man  and  beast.  William  Hedley,  the  super¬ 
intendent  of  an  extensive  coal  mine  at  Wylam,  Newcas 
tle-upon-Tyne,  was  greatly  perplexed  how  to  provide 
fodder  for  the  hor  ses  employed  to  draw  the  coal  over  a 
railroad  from  the  mine  to  the  dock  where  it  was  shipped. 
For  a  long  time  he  feared  the  colliery  must  be  closed, 
and  himself  thrown  out  of  employment.  One  night  as 
he  lay  thinking  of  his  dark  prospects,  there  suddenly  oc¬ 
curred  to  him  a  plan  by  which  the  wheels  of  a  locomo¬ 
tive  could  be  made  to  move  forward,  instead  of  slipping 
upon  the  track.  This  difficulty  had  long  puzzled  the  best 
engineers,  and  caused  the  failure  of  locomotives  previ¬ 
ously  built  by  them.  The  next  morning  he  commenced 
a  model,  which  will;  the  help  of  a  clockmaker  was  com¬ 
pleted  within  twenty  four  hours  ;  and  at  length  he  had  the 
happiness  of  inventing  and  building  the  first  locomotive 
engine  moving  by  the  friction  of  the  wheels  upon  the  read. 
It  was  extremely  slow  in  all  its  movements,  but  it  served 
his  purpose,  and  above  all  consumed  neither  hay  nor 
oats,  but  was  fed  with  the  coal  abounding  at  the  mine. 
The  original  Wylam  locomotive  remained  at  work  forty 
nine  years,  and  is  now  a  valued  relic  in  the  Patent  Muse¬ 
um,  South  Kensington,  England.  At  Wylam,  this  engine 
was  called  “  Puffing  Billy,”  from  the  great  noise  it  made. 
This  puffing  and  snorting  came  near  stopping  the  career 
of  the  engine,  and  Involving  its  inventor  in  a  lawsuit,  as 
the  people  along  the  road  declared  it  a  nuisance,  and  en¬ 
deavored  to  stop  it.  But  “  Puffing  Billy”  was  too  good 
a  friend  to  the  Newcastle  folks,  to  be  put  down,  and 
the  suit  was  dropped. 

Indian  Tradition— Koclcs  in  Con* 
necticut. 

It  is  said  that  ages  ago  an  evil  spirit  set  up  a  claim  to 
the  territory  including  the  present  State  of  Connecticut. 
The  Indians  referred  the  matter  to  their  squaws,  who 
proposed  that  they  should  quit  the  disputed  ground  pro¬ 
vided  the  spirit  would  pay  them  for  the  improvements  they 
had  made.  To  this  the  spirit  returned  no  answer,  and 
war  was  declared.  At  first  the  spirit,  though  single  hand¬ 
ed,  being  very  powerful,  gained  the  advantage  ;  but  the 
Indians  united,  and  posted  their  warriors  so  that  they 
might  be  constantly  re-enforced,  and  pressed  him  so  sore¬ 
ly  night  and  day.  that  he  was  obliged  to  retreat.  He  ar¬ 
rived  one  evening  in  the  neighborhood  of  Throg’s  Neck, 
(now  in  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y.,)  on  L.  I.  Sound,  where 
a  line  of  rocks  project  out  from  the  Island.  It  happened 
to  be  low  tide,  and  the  tops  of  the  rocks  appearing  above 
the  water,  the  spirit  stepped  from  one  to  the  other  until 
he  reached  the  Island.  These  rocks  are  to  this  day  called 
the  “  Stepping  Stones.”  He  then  went  to  Coram,  in  the 
middle  of  the  Island.  Determined  to  have  revenge,  he 
then  collected  all  the  loose  rocks  he  could  find  on  the 
Island  in  heaps  at  Cold  Spring,  and  threw  them  over  into 
different  parts  of  Connecticut,  where  they  yet  remain. 
The  Indians  who  last  Inhabited  Long  Island,  not  only 
undertook  to  show  the  spot  where  the  spirit  stood,  but 
insisted  that  they  could  yet  discern  the  prints  of  his  feet. 

Wall  Street  and  Fly  Market. 

While  New  York  City  was  in  possession  of  the  early 
Dutch  settlers,  they  built  a  line  of  palisades  extending 
from  near  the  corner  of  Pine  and  Water-street  on  the 
East  River  side,  over  to  the  Hudson  or  North  River.  A 
fortification  known  as  the  “  Half  Moon,”  built  of  stone, 
was  erected  at  the  beginning  on  the  East  River.  Ad¬ 
jacent  to  this  was  the  “  Waal  ”  where  the  ships  rode  at 
anchor  in  the  river,  and  the  street  adjoining,  where  goods 
were  landed  or  shipped,  was  named  “  Waal-street,” 
which  very  soon  became  Wall-street,  now  famous  the 
world  over  as  the  great  money  center  of  America. 

Many  residents  in  New  York  yet  remember  the  “  Fly” 
market  standing  at  the  foot  of  Maiden  Lane.  Some  sup¬ 
pose  the  name  to  be  derived  from  the  abundance  of  flies 
drawn  there  by  the  meat  and  fish  ;  indeed  it  is  related  that 
when  a  New  Yorker  and  a  Philadelphian  were  each 
claiming  that  their  markets  were  best  supplied,  the  latter 
quoted  this  name  “  Ply  ”  market,  in  proof  that  meat 
could  not  be  kept  well  in  New  York,  because  of  these 
insects.  The  name  was  originally  “Vly”  market,  the 
word  being  an  abbreviation  of  Valey  (valley),  and  in 
use  with  the  'Dutch  to  denote  a  marsh— formerly  ex¬ 
tended  from  the  East  River  up  as  far  as  Pearl-street 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


193 


(Business  notices  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 


How  to  make  the  above  with  many  more  Fireside  Tricks 
and  Parlor  Games,  see  FIRESIDE  AMUSEMENTS  in  the 


NORTHERN  MAGAZINE. 

Tile  best  and  cheapest  Illustrated  magazine  In  the  world. 


01VI.Y  Sl.i?5  FOR  ONE  YEAR. 

Amusement  and  Instruction  combined. 

Equally  Interesting  to  the  grandfather  and  to  the  grand¬ 
child.  Address  FRANK  RELLEW. 

S9  Park  Row,  New  York. 

N.  B.— We  will  cheei-fully  give  any  one  a  year’s  subscription 
gratis,  who  will  show  us  as  good  a  magazine  at  double  the 
price. 


NEW  PUBLICATIONS. 

ATTENTION!  AGENTS. 

LINCOLN  CHART,  (PICTORIAL)  40  cts. 
LINCOLN  CHART,  (HISTORICAL)  40  cts. 
LINCOLN  CRAYON  LIKENESS,  60  cts. 
LINCOLN  LITH.  PORTRAIT,  20  cts. 
LINCOLN  HOME  MONUMENT,  25  cts. 

These  new  elegant  Engravings  (Nos.  1,  2,  and 
5  are  colored)  now  ready.  No.  I  has  a  life 
size  Head  and  Bust,  a  magnificent  Head-piece, 
and  10  finely  engraved  scenes  of  his  Life  ;  size 
28x39.  No.  2  is  filled  with  tlie  most  important 
events  of  his  Life  and  Death;  size  28x38.  No.  3 
is  a  large  Crayon  Lithographic  Likeness,  unsur¬ 
passed  in  excellence  ;  size  19x24.  No.  4  is  a  sim¬ 
ilar  smaller  Portrait.  No.  6  is  a  chaste  and  beau¬ 
tiful  Ornamental  Monument ;  size  14x18. 

Specimens  mailed  at  above  prices.  We  have 
also  three  Lithographs  showing  the  ASSASSINA- 
TION,  DEATH  BED  SCENE,  and  the  CATA¬ 
FALQUE.  size  13x17 :  mailed  at  20  cents  each  ; 
the  last  three  for  50  cts,  and  the  whole  eight  for  $2. 
GENEROUS  TER.MS  TO  AGENTS. 

For  these  ami  80  other  kinds  of  colored  Maps, 
Charts  and  Prints  to  suit  the  times.  Send  for  new 
descriptive  Price  List. 

H.  H  liEOYD  &  CO., 

21  Jolin-st.,  New  York, 


It  Rips  ^plciidldly ! 

THE  PATENT  SEWING  RIPPER  has  proved  one 
of  the  most  acceptable  new  inventions.  It  t.ikes  out  a 
seam  more  rapidly  and  safely  tlian  knife  or  scissors ; 
being  used  for  that  only,  is  always  in  order;  is  small  and 
neat :  is  indispensable  for  the  work  basket  and  especially 
where  a  sewing  machine  is  used. 

Price  50  cents.  Sent  post-paid  by  mail.  Address 
A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New  York  City’. 

DHOXOGRAPHS  of  A.  LINCOLN  and  LIN- 
COLN  AT  HORIE.  Card  size,  15  cents  each. 
Medium  size — about  11x14  inches — 60  cents  each.  Sent 
free  by  mail.  Also  Gen.  Grant,  Card  and  medium  size, 
and  Cartes  de  visite  of  Johnson,  Seward,  Stanton,  Sher¬ 
man,  Sheridan,  &c.,  <fcc.  F.  P.  WHITING,  87  Fulton 
Street,  New  York, 

“Victory  at  I^ast.” 

BRADBURY’S  NEW  PATRIOTIC  SONG. 

As  sung  at  Fort  Sumter.  Price  30  cents.  For  sale  at 
the  Music  Stores,  and  at  427  Broome-st.,  New  York. 
Sent  by  mail. 


U.  S.  7-30  LOAI. 

By  authority  of  tlie  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  the 
undersigned  has  assumed  the  General  Subscription 
Agency  for  the  sale  of  the  United  States  Treasury  Notes, 
bearing  seven  and  three-tenths  per  cent,  interest,  per 
annum,  known  as  the  i 

SEVEN-THIRTY  LOAN. 

These  Notes  are  issued  under  date  of  June  15th,  1865, 
and  are  payable  three  years  from  that  time,  in  currency, 
or  are  convertible  at  the  option  of  the  holder  into 

U.  S.  5-20  Six  per  cent. 

GOLD-BEARINa  BONDS. 

These  bonds  are  worth  a  premium  which  increases  the 
actual  profit  on  the  7-30  loan,  and  its  exemption  from 
State  and  municipal  taxation  adds  from  one  to  three  per 
cent,  more,  according  to  the  rate  levied  on  other  property. 
The  interest  is  payable  in  currency  semi-annually  by 
coupons  attached  to  each  note,  which  may  be  cut  off 
and  sold  to  any  bank  or  banker. 

The  interest  amounts  to 
Oue  cent  per  day  on  a  -  -  $50  note. 

“  $100 

“  $500  “ 

‘  $iooo 

“  $5000  “ 

Notes  of  all  the  denominations  named  will  be  promptly 
furnished  upon  receipt  of  subscriptions,  and  the  notes 
forwarded  at  once.  The  interest  to  15th  June  next  will 
be  paid  in  advance.  This  is 

THE  ONLY  LOAN  IN  MARKET 

now  offered  by  the  Government,  and  it  is  confidently 
expected  that  its  superior  advantages  will  make  it  the 

GREAT  POPULAR  LOAN  OF  THE  PEOPLE. 

Less  than  $300,000,000  of  the  Loan  authorized  by  the 
last  Congress  are  now  on  the  market.  Tliis  amount,  at 
the  rate  at  which  it  is  being  absorbed,  will  all  be  sub 
scribed  for  within  four  months,  when  the  notes  will  un 
doubtedly  command  a  premium,  as  has  uniformly  been 
the  case  on  closing  the  subscriptions  to  other  Loans. 

In  order  that  citizens  of  every  town  and  section  of 
the  country  may  be  afforded  facilities  for  taking  the  loan, 
the  National  Banks.  Slate  Banks,  and  Private  Bankers 
throughout  the  countr  y  have  generally  agreed  to  receive 
subscriptions  at  par.  Sirbscribers  will  select  their  own 
agents,  in  whom  they  have  confidence,  ana  wno  on.y  are 
to  be  responsible  for  the  delivery  of  the  notes  for  which 
they  receive  orders. 

JAY  COOKE, 

Subscription  Agent,  Philadelphia. 

FISK  &  HATCH, 

BANKERS  AND  DEALERS  IN 


Two  cents 
Ten 
20 

$1 


Fourtecutli  Annual  IScport 

OF  THE 

MANHATTAN 

LIFE  INSURANCE  COMPANY, 

Nos.  156  and  15S  Broadway, 

NEW  YORK, 

JANLAKY  1,  1865. 


Net  Assets,  January  1,  1864 . . . $1,478,908  .on 

Receipts  during  the  year .  973,534  U2 


$2,452,502  61 

Disbursements .  461,277  38 


$1,991,225  23 

Assets . $1,991,225  23 


Life  policies  are  issued,  payable  in  annual,  or  in  one, 
five,  or  ten  annual  installments  ,  also  non-forfeiture  en¬ 
dowment  policies,  payable  in  ten  annual  payments, 
which  are  paid  at  death,  or  on  arriving  at  any  parliculai 
age.  Life  insurance  as  an  investment  has  no  superior, 
as  it  has  saved  millions  of  doll;irs  to  the  insured,  and 
thousands  of  families  from  ruin.  Dividends  are  paid  to 
policy  holders,  thus  enabling  them  to  continue  theii 
policies,  if  otherwise  unable  to  do  so. 

HENRY  STOKES,  President. 

C.  Y.  WEMPLE,  Secretary. 

J.  S.  HALSEY,  Assistant  Secretary. 

S.  N.  STEBBINS,  Actuary. 

ABRAM  DU  BOIS,  M.  D.,  Medical  Examiner. 

Lung',  Female  and  Chronic  Diseases. 

Drs.  S.  S.  &  S.  E.  STRONG,  graduates  of  the  New 
York  Medical  University,  and  Proprietors  of  the  Reme¬ 
dial  Institute,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y.,  give  special  at¬ 
tention  to  the  above  diseases.  In  addition  lo  the  Medical 
and  Surgical  agencies,  they  employ  Gymnastics  and  all 
kinds  of  Baths.  They  refer  for  evidence  of  skill  and  re¬ 
liability  to 

E.  Nott,  D.  D.,  L.  L.  D.,  President  Union  College. 

M.  Simpson,  D.  D.,  Bishop  M.  E.  Church,  Philadelphia. 
Rev.  J.  M.  Sherwood,  Ed.  Presbyterian  Quait’ly  Review. 
J.  M.  Ray,  State  Bank,  Indianapolis,  Iiid. 

Prof.  H.  M.  Seely,  Middlebury,  Vt. 

Hon.  J.  B.  McKean,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y. 

For  full  information,  send  for  a  Circular. 

To  Purchasers  ©r  ©rgans, 
Mclodcons,  or  Ifarmonitims. 

Every  one  having  any  thouglit  of  purch;ising  an  in¬ 
strument  of  tills  class  now  or  at  any  future  time  should 
send  for  one  of  MASON  &  HAMLIN’S  Cabinet  Organ 
Circulars,  whicli  will  be  sent  lo  any  address  entirely  free 
of  expense.  This  Circular  contains  much  information 
wliich  will  be  useful  to  every  purchaser  of  such  an  in¬ 
strument,  such  as  articles  on  “  Ilow  to  Judge  of  a  Musi¬ 
cal  Instrument,”  “  History  of  the  Organ,”  “  History  of 
Reed  Instruments,”  &c., &c.  Address  MASON  BROTH¬ 
ERS,  596  Broadway,  New  York,  Or,  MASON  <fc  HAM¬ 
LIN,  274  Washington-street,  Boston. 

PIANOS  &  CI11GAN8. 

Great  Bargains  in  HALLET,  DAVIS  &  CO’S  Grand 
and  Square  Pianos— ana  other  New  Pianos.  Sold  on 
montlily  payments.  Good  second-hand  Pianos  at  $60^ 
$150  to  $300. 

PIANOS  AN»  MELOBEONS  TO  LET, 

A,  E.  THOMPSON’S  Chapel  and  Parlor  Organ.s, 
voiced  by  a  skillful  Organist,  far  superior  to  all  othei 
Reed  Organs.  Price  $160.  T.  S.  BERRY, 

593  Broadway,  New  York, 

1846.  THE  HORTICL’LTtIKIST.  1865. 


Concentrated  liCniouade, 

In  cases  of  2,  4,  6  and  12  dozen.  Warranted  pure.  Price 
$3.50  per  dozen.  Orders  must  be  accompanied  by  Cash. 
For  sale  by  T.  HARDY  &  CO.,  36  Dey-st.,  N.  Y. 


Help  for  Mothers. 

Dr.  Brown’s  BABY  TENDER  relieves  the  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  child.  Is  giving  universal  satis¬ 
faction.  See  full  description  and  Mr.  Judd’s  endorse¬ 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dec.  No.,  1864.  Send  for  Circular 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS,  939  Broadway,  New  York  City. 

“It  will  Pay.” 

Agents  wanted  to  sell  Good  Books.  Send  stamp  for 
Particulars,  to  MESSRS.  FOWLER  &  WELLS  389 
Broadway,  New  York. 


GOTEIRNMENT  SECEKITIES, 

AND  7 

V.  LOAM  AOEMTS, 

Have  removed  from 

No.  38  Wall  Street,  to 

No.  5'  NASSAU  STSIEET, 

(Continental  Bank  Building,)  near  Wall-street, 

New- York. 

Economical  Housekeepers  Use 

Pyle’s  Saleratus.  I  Pyle’s  O.  K.  Soap. 

Pyle’s  Cream  Tartar.  |  Pvle’s  Blueing  Powder. 

Articles  designed  for  all  who  want  the  best  goods,  full 
weight.  Sold  by  best  Grocers  everywhere.  Each  pack¬ 
age  bears  the  name  of  JAMES  PYLE,  Manufacturer, 
New  York. 


Monthly,  Two  Dollars  and  Fifty  Cents  per  annum. 
Two  specimen  copies  sent  for  Twenty  five  Cents. 
WOODWARD’S  COUNTRY  HOMES. 

122  Designs  for  Houses,  Stables,  &c.,  $1.50  post-paid. 
Woodward’s  Horticultural  Builtliii(>'!4 
60  Designs  and  Plans,  $1.50  post-paid. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Piiblislicrs, 

37  Park  Row,  New  York. 

Woodside  Nursery. 

ANDREW  S.  FULLER,  HORTICULTURIST, 
formerly  of  Brooklyn,  L.  I. 

Grape  Vines,  Small  Fruits  and  Hardy  Ornamental 
Plants.  P.  O.  Address,  Ridgewood,  Bergen  Co.,  N.  J. 

■KgASHFITLNESS.— HOW  TO  OVERCOME  IT. 
See  PHRENOLOGICAL  .IOURNAL.  Jan.  No.  20  cta 
FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New-York.  , 


194 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


GOOD  STRAWBEEEY  PREMIUM. 


We  have  none  of  the  Agriculturist  Strawberry  Plants 
for  sale,  and  shall  not  sell  a  plant  this  year  at  least,  in 
accordance  with  our  agreement  with  Mr.  Knox,  who 
purchased  all  our  surplus  stock  last  autumn.  We  have, 
liowever,  the  original  stock  plants,  which  will  produce 
a  fine  lot  of  newplantsbythelastof  August.  We  reserved 
tlie  riglit  to  offer  a  part  of  these  as  premiums  to  those  wlio 
procure  subscribers  for  the  Agriculturist,  As  we  have 
found  a  safe  method  of  sending  them  by  mail  in  wooden 
boxes  (see  below),  we  can  send  these  plants  about  the 
first  of  September,  with  little  danger  of  loss,  and  at 
that  time  they  can  be  planted  and  get  well  established 
this  year.  We  have  heard  of  only  three  or  four  cases  of 
loss  in  all  the  large  number  sent  out  last  year  pr-ior  to 
September  15th,  and  our  new  method  of  packing  will  add 
greatly  to  the  security.  We,  therefore,  offer  : 

I.  — To  any  one  who  will  now,  or  any  time  before 
to  August  1st,  send  ns  four  subscribers,  at  the  regular 
rales  ($5),  we  will  forward,  post-paid,  Ten  of  tlie  Ag¬ 
riculturist  Strawberry  Plants^  of  first  class,  about  Sept.  I. 

II.  — To  any  one  sending  ten  subscribers  now,  or  before 
August  1st,  vi'e  will  send  Twenty  Plants  as  above. 

III.  — .\nd  so  on,  for  a  larger  number  of  names  we  will 
send  at  the  rate  of  30  Plants  for  ten  subscribers. 

This  will  be  a  fine  opportunity  to  secure  a  stock  of 
plants,  and  the  premium  will  be  a  valuable  one,  as  there 
will  not  be  plants  enough  for  sale  in  the  country  to  reduce 
the  price  much  below  the  rates  so  far,  for  first  class  plants. 

The  reason  for  making  the  offer  larger  than  previously 
given,  will  readily  be  seen,  viz.,  by  having  more  time  for 
multiplying  plants  it  will  be  easier  for  us  now  to  provide 
ten  next  autumn  than  it  was  to  send  one  plant  last  year. 
Those  who  got  one  plant  last  fall,  or  the  past  spring,  will, 
vvitli  fair  cultivation,  have  several  dozens  of  their  own  rais¬ 
ing  by  next  autumn,  so  that  they  will  really  liave  a  larger 
slock  than  those  who  get  ten  plants  then. 

— — - 

Atout  the  “ Agrieulturist  Strawberry” 
Plants  sent  out  This  Year— Boxes  for 
Mailing  Plants— Mr.  Knox. 

5.  Tlie  Publisher  expended  nearly  a  Thou.sand  Dollars, 
last  autumn,  in  trying  to  get  np  boxes,  but  owing  to  his 
absence  by  sickness,  the  effort  failed  then.  But  from 
the  many  favorable  reports  received  from  all  parts  of  the 
country,  vi'e  conclude  that  this  year’s  plan  of  sending 
plants  in  wooden  boxes  is  a  complete  success — and  we 
confidently  commend  them  to  all  dealers  as  worthy 
-  of  adoption,  not  only  for  sending  strawberry  plants, 
but  for  all  others  small  enougii  to  put  into  any  kind 
of  mailable  box,  and  also  for  cuttings,  and  even  for  seeds. 
We  see  no  objection  to  using  boxes  which  measure  a 
foot  or  more  long,  and  3  to  5  inches  in  diameter,  as  the 
law  allows  any  weight  up  to  4  pounds,  at  eight  cents 
per  pound.  By  having  them  made  where  wood  is 
abundant,  they  can  be  got  up  cheaply,  and  different  sizes 
of  empty  boxes  might  be  “  nested”  to  save  transportation. 

A  turned  box,  6  to  7  inches  long,  and  3  to  9  inches  inside 
diameter,  will  suffice  for  a  dozen  or  more  strawberry 
l)lants  of  the  ordinary  size.  We  first  bed  the  plants  in 
damp  moss,  then  wrap  the  whole  in  oil-cloth,  and  slip 
the  parcel  into  the  box,  put  on  the  cover,  and  paste  on 
the  wrapper,  previously  marked,  addressed  and  stamped. 
Wlien  sending  off  a  large  number  we  let  tlie  P.  M.  put 
on  the  |)Ost-mark  while  the  wrappers  are  lying  out  flat, 
which  is  more  convenient  than  to  post-mark  them  when 
wrapped  on  round  boxes.  Enough  are  thus  prepared 
every  morning  for  the  day’s  work. - IS,  The  warm  sea¬ 

son  came  on  much  earlier  than  usual,  so  that  tlie  plants 
were  in  full  leaves  and  in  bloom,  2  to  .3  weeks  sooner 
than  we  calculated  upon.  This  rendered  more  doubtful 
tlie  perfect  safety  and  freshness  of  those  sent  out  after 
May  1st,  and  we  were  obliged  to  suspend  sending  after 
May  17th,  as  tlie  fruit  was  all  set,  and  the  weather  very 
warm.  Applications  received  after  that  will  be  reserved 
to  Sept.  1st,  when  a  double  number  of  new  plants  will  be 
forwarded  to  such  delayed  applicants.  We  are  sure  they 
will  go  very  safely  up  to  the  lOtli  of  September,  but  do 
not  deem  it  expedient  to  send  plants  by  mail  at  a  later 

.jute. - III.  A  word  for  Mr.  Knox,  of  Pittsburgh.  He 

bought  all  our  plants  not  reserved  for  subscribers.  They 
were  forwarded  to  him  in  boxes  and  barrels,  by  express; 
but  unfortunately,  at  just  the  best  time  for  transporting 
them,  the  terrible  freshets  in  Pennsylvania  interrupted 
all  transportation  for  a  considerable  time.  The  boxes  of 
plants  sent  to  him  first  were  from  8  to  12  days  on  the  way, 
wliile  tliey  were  packed  only  for  a  day  or  two.  Before 
rapid  transportation  was  restored,  tlie  weather  had  be¬ 
come  unusually  warm  for  tlie  season.  He,  however,  did 
the  bpst  he  possibly  could,  selecting  the  best  and  freshest 
only,  as  he  had  an  unexpectedly  large  stopk.  He  will 


undoubtedly  make  good  any  losses,  as  we  rank  him 
among  the  most  honest  and  reliable  dealers  in  the  country. 

Commercial  Ifotes — Prices  Current. 

New-Yobk,  May  18. 

Tlie  condensed  and  convenient  tables  below,  show  the 
transactions  in  the  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
month  past.  They  are  carefully  prepared  specially  for  tlie 
American  Agriculturist,  from  official  and  otlier  reliable 
sources,  including  the  daily  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 

1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  THK  NEW- YORK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  Mlieat.  Corn.  Mye.  Barley.  Oats. 

2tdaystAi.sm’tli.339.000  22,700  153,000  2,600 

24daystastm’tli.l97,000  9,200  173,000  3,100 

Sales.  Flour.  lf/ie«(.  Corn. 

24  days  Wis  month,  249,000  653,000  272.000 

24  days  last  montli,  194,000  528,000  318,000 

Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts.  Four.  Wheat,  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

24  days  1865 . 339.000  22,700  153,000  2,600  67,000  197,000 

25  days  1894 . 281,000  219,000  143,000  31,100  174,000  876,000 

Sales.  Four.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley. 

24  days  1865  .  249.000  655,000  272.000  8,500  61,000 

25  days  1864  .  373,000  514,000  938,000  9,200  141,000 

3.  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  May  IS: 


67.000  197,000 
94,000  286,000 

Jiye.  Barley. 
8,500  61,000 

-  46,000 


Flour, 

AVheat, 

Cora, 

Rye, 

Oats. 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

484,598 

219,946 

163,502 

141 

26,778 

751,473 

4,269.497 

116,618 

405 

15,812 

.830,493 

4,103,939 

2,597,612 

216,978 

110,759 

April  20. 

$7  CO  @8  10 

$3  90 

May  18. 
@  G  80 

9  00 

@11  50 

7  13 

@12  00 

7  70 

@11  50 

6  40 

@11  50 

8  15 

@10  00 

6  90 

@  9  00 

7  00 

@  7  50 

5  90 

@  C  20 

5  50 

@  6  50 

5  00 

@  6  00 

5  TO 

@  6  50 

5  10 

®  C  00 

1  85 

®  2  30 

1  73 

@  2  20 

1  55 

@  1  85 

1  25 

@  1  73 

1  27 

®  1  86 

00 

®  1  08 

1  15 

@  1  30 

90 

@  1  00 

90 

@  91 

50 

® 

52 

88 

®  90 

50 

@ 

51 

1  00 

@  1  10 

85 

@ 

90 

1  10 

@  1  35 

1  13 

@  1  45 

32 

@  37 

48 

50 

10 

@  40 

10 

@  85 

60 

@  62H 

59 

@  63 

29 

@  80 

22 

®  23 

5  00 

@  6  00 

4  50 

@  5  50 

2  23 

@  2  50 

2  10 

@  2  25 

CURRENT  Wholesale  Prices. 

Flour— Super  to  Extra 

Super  to  Extra  Southern .  '9  OO’ 

Extra  Western .  7  70 

Extra  G-enesee .  8  15 

Superfine  Western . 

Rye  Flour . . 

Corn  JIeal .  5  TO 

Wheat— All  kinds  of  White.  _ 

All  kinds  ot'Red .  155 

Corn— Yellow . 

Mixed . 

Oats— Western . 

State . 

Rye . 

Barley . 

Cotton— Middlings,  iff  lb. 

Hops— Crop  of  1864,  ^  Ib .  10 

Feathers— Live  Geese,  ~ 

Seed— Clover,  ^  ft  . 

Timothy,  ^  bushel .  5  00 

Flax,  ^  bushel . . .  2  23 

Sugar— Brown,  ^  ft  . 

Molasses,  New-Orleans,  ^  gl. 

Coffee- Rio,  ^  ft . 

Tobacco,  Kentucky,  &c.,  19  ft. 

Seed  Leaf,  ^  ft . 

Wooi^Domestic  Fleece,  ft. 

Domestic,  pulled,  ^  ft . 

California,  unwashed, . 

Tallow.  K)  lb  . 

Oil  Cake—?)  ton . 

Pork— Mess,  IR  barrel .  24  50 

Prime,  ft  barrel .  24  50 

Beef- Plain  mess .  12  00 

Lard,  in  barrels,  ft  ft. . . 

Butter- Western,  lb. 

State,  ft . 

Beans— %  bushel .  2  00 

Peas- Canada.  ?)  bushel .  2  00 

Eggs— Fresh,  dozen . 

Poultry— Fowls,  ?!  ft . 

Turkeys,  ?!  ft  . 

Potatoes— Mercers,  ?!  bbl. . . 

Peach  Blows,  ?!  barrel .  3  73 

Ai'ples— ?!  barrel .  6  50 

Gold  has  receded  from  147  to  126K,  and  has  since 
ranged  in  the  vicinity  of  130,  or  below.  Prices  of  most 
kinds  of  domestic  produce  have  declined  materially,  in 
sympathy  with  the  gold,  and  the  tendency  is  steadily 
downward,  especially  as  holders  are  eager  to  realize, 
while  the  demand  from  the  regular  trade  is  quite  moder¬ 
ate,  and  speculative  buyers  less  active  than  usual  at  this 
seasonof  the  year.  The  resumption  of  canal  and  river  nav¬ 
igation  promises  early  and  considerable  additions  to  the 
available  supplies  in  market ;  and  purchasers  expect  (hat 
these  will  seriously  depress  prices,  in  view  of  the  decline 
ill  gold,  the  restricted  home  inquiry,  and  the  unusually 
limited  export  movements  particularly  in  breadstuffs, 
which  have  been  the  least  freely  dealt  in  during  the  past 
month.  The  executive  orders  for  the  reduction  of  tlie 
national  forces  tend  to  lessen  very  decidedly  the  govern¬ 
ment  consumption  of  breadstuffs,  provisions,  and  forage 
for  horses ;  and  tlie  partial  loss  of  such  excellent  cus¬ 
tomers  as  the  U.  S.  Quartermasters  and  Commissaries  of 
subsistence  will  be  seriously  felt  by  the  produce  trade  for 
sometime  to  come.  Toward  the  close,  the  markets  are 
all  depressed,  and  the  tendency  of  prices  is  unmistak¬ 
ably  in  favor  of  buyers,  wlio  purciiase  very  sparingly  in 
anticipation  of  a  further  material  reduction  .in  values. 


9X  @ 

15K 

9M@ 

loH 

80 

10 

75 

@ 

05 

18X® 

21 

lOk® 

23 

9 

@ 

40 

G 

@ 

20 

50 

7 

@ 

SO 

70 

® 

85 

65 

@ 

SO 

60 

® 

85 

62  J^® 

77K 

18 

@ 

55 

15 

@ 

43 

11 

@ 

IIM 

10 

@ 

10^ 

GO 

00 

@55  00 

48  00 

@5( 

00 

24 

50 

@27  50 

21  50 

@23 

50 

24 

50 

@25  00 

21  50 

@- 

— 

12 

00 

@16  00 

10  00 

@14 

00 

13)^® 

18 

18 

15 

@ 

25 

14 

@ 

23 

22 

@ 

35 

21 

@ 

35 

14 

® 

32 

12 

® 

20 

2 

00 

@ 

50 

1  23 

®  2 

23 

2 

00 

@ 

10 

1  90 

®  2 

10 

26 

@ 

27 

24 

® 

27 

22 

@ 

25 

20 

@ 

24 

24 

@ 

23 

20 

@ 

27 

3 

73 

@  4 

20 

2  50 

@  3 

50 

3 

73 

@ 

00 

2  00 

@  2 

25 

6 

50 

®  7 

00 

7  00 

@10 

00 

The  Financial  Wonder. 


“  Five  Cl»octaivs,  Alexander,  and  Miiiety- 
fonr  Iron. 5’ — These  brief  words,  sent  over  tho  wires 
on  May  9th,  by  Messrs.  Fisk  &  Hatcli  of  this  City,  were 
of  startling  significance.  They  indicated  the  largest 
subscription  ever  before  made  at  one  lime  lo  a  Govern¬ 
ment  Loan  by  a  single  firm,  at  least  in  this  country.  As 
many  may  have  already  learned,  the  General  Subscrip¬ 


tion  Agent  of  the  'r-30  U.  S.  I,oau,  Jay  Cooke,  has 
devised  a  set  of  words  for  different  sums,  which  saves  a 
great  deal  of  telegraph  expense.  Thus,  “Lath  ”  stands 
for  the  $50  U.  S.  7-30  Bonds  ;  “  Iron”  for  $100s  ,  “  Brick” 
for  $500s  ;  “  Stone  ”  for  $l,000s  ;  “  Marble  ”  for  $5, 000s  ; 
“  William”  for  $20,000s  ;  “  Alexander”  for  $50,000s  ;  “Ma¬ 
ry”  for  $90, 000s  ;  “  Emily”  for  $100, 000s  ;  “Choctaw” 
for  $1,000,000  ;  and  other  names  for  several  intermediate 
sums.  So  wlien  Messrs.  Fisk  &  Hatch  telegraphed  for 
“Five  Choctaws,  Alexander,  and  Ninety-four  Iron, Seven- 
Thirties,”  they  ordered  $5,059,400  !  (This  subscrip¬ 
tion  they  made  on  the  day  tiiey  changed  to  their  new  and 
larger  rooms  at  No.  5  Nassau-street,  near  Wall-street, 
as  noted  in  an  advertisement  elsewhere).  So  large  a 
EiibscripUon  took  every  one  by  surprise,  but  on  the  same 
day  thousands  of  others  from  all  parts  of  the  country  sent 
in  smaller  sums,  and  the  result  was,  that  over  15  Mil¬ 
lion  Dollars  were  subscribed  on  that  day.  This  was 
talked  of  all  through  the  city  and  country,  as  well  it 
might  be,  for  we  well  remember  how  hard  it  was  four 
years  ago  to  get  a  government  loan  of  only  $9,000,000  all 
told.  Yet  the  subscriptions  were  not  to  stop  liere.  Tlie 
next  day  May  lOtli,  the  people  took  $17,000,000,  the  next 
day  nearly  $14,000,000,  nnd  the  next  day  over  $43,000,000  ' 
while  for  the  week  -  the  subscriptions  run  up  io  over 
©lie  Hundred  and  Ten  millions  of  ©ollars  ! 
Nothing  like  this  has  ever  been  known  before,  in  any  na¬ 
tion  in  the  world.  And  what  is  more,  many  other  iiun- 
dreds  of  millions  have  been  but  recently  subscribed,  and 
are  being  subscribed.  It  shows  the  unbounded  con¬ 
fidence  of  the  people  in  the  stability  of  our  government. 
In  fact  the  people  are  The  Government,  and  they  are 
merely  lending  money  to  themselves. 


_ SrHertisements, 

Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  1 0th  of  the  preceding  month. 

N.  B.— A'b  Advertisement  of  Patent  ifedicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parties  unknown  to  the  Editors  personal¬ 
ly  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  loill  do  what  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  up  to  these  requirements,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  theinselves. 

T]BR,MS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  incli),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines).  $65  each  insertion. 

One  whole  column  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  line. 


ShelReld  Scientific  School  of  Yale  College. 

Courses  of  Agricultural  Instruction,  including  the  Prac¬ 
tice  of  Agriculture  and  Horticulture,  A.gi’ioultural  Chemistry 
and  Pliysiology,  Principles  of  Breeding  and  Feeding,  Inju¬ 
rious  Insects,  Rural  Economy,  Forestry,  French  and  German 
languages,  &c.,  &c.  Open  Sept.  13th.  1865.  For  detailed  Pro- 
gramrne,  apply  to  Prof.  GEO.  J.  BRUSH,  New  Haven,  Conn. 

’Wlicelei-  Si>  "Wilson’s 

8ewfiii§-  MacMises* 

Woman’s  Greatest  Boon.— We  would  advise  a  man  to  fore¬ 
go  athresher  and  thresh  wheat  ivith  a  flail  rather  than  to 
see  the  wife  wear  Iier  health,  vigor  and  Hie  away  in  tlie  ever¬ 
lasting  “  stitch,  stitch,  stitch.”  when  a  sewing  machine  can 
be  obtained.  The  Wheeler  &  Wilson  is  an  invaluable  aid  in 
every  household.  We  have  had  several  diflerent  kinds  ou 
trial,  and  after  six  years’  service  the  Wheeler  A  Wilson  has 
taken  the  precedence  as  the  best,  wliere  al]  kinds  of  sewing 
are  to  be  done  in  a  family.— Amm’cara  Agriculturist,  Jan.  1865. 


JONES’  BUST  OF  LINCOLN. 

The  undersigned  is  prepared  to  supply  Public  Libraries 
Societies  or  individuals,  with  life-size  copies  in  plaster  of 
Jones’  celebrated  bust  of  our  lamented  Chief  5Iagistrate 
This  has  been  pronounced  by  connoisseurs  one  of  the  finest 
works  of  art  recently  produced,  and  bv  his  famiiy  and  Pri¬ 
vate  Secretary,  Mr.  .Tohn  G.  Nicolay,  ‘‘Hie  historic  bust  ”  of 
the  late  Mr.  Lincoln. 

Sample  copy  may  be  seen  at  No.  64-Wan  st.,  where  orders 
by  mail  should  be  ad-dressed.  Price,  boxed  and  delivered  to 
Express  Company,  ,$25. 

J.  BURRELL  CHADWICK, '(No.  64  Wall-st,,  New-York. 


l£UB£S>l!:SClUE 

LIFE  OF 


JEFF  DAVIS  ! 

The  most  gloriously  funny  thing,  just  as  lull  of  humor  as 
numerous  comic  illustrations,  in  July  No. 
ofMEBKYMAIV’S  MONTHLY.  A  ^lendld  number 
witli  improvements  and  new  features.  Priae  Piizalc 
every  month  witli  Greeiibaclc  Prizes.  Sold  by  newsmen 
or  sent  post-paid  for  15  cents,  3  specimens  30  cents.  No 
free  copies.  HANEY  &  CO.,  109  Nassau-st.,  New  York. 

We  will  send  it  from  July  to  end  of  the  year  (six 
months),  for  GO  cents,  two  subscribers  $1,  club  of  four,  aud 
one  to  getter  up  free,  $3, 


Cured  bv  Bates’  Patent  Aiipliarites.  For  descriptive  pam¬ 
phlet,  Address  H.  C.  L.  MEAKS,  277  West  23d-.st„  N.  Y. 


Emi-e  Bred  Poultry  and  Ejrg.s  for  Settiue:,  for  sale. 
Address  E.  A.  WENDELL,  Box  1144  P.  O.,  Albany,  N.  Y. 


livery  Fariaaer  sliosald  liave 
one  of  Halsteil’s  Mors©  Hay  Forks, 


I 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


195 


Etii’cliasing'  A.g'ency, 
HARYEY  B.  LANE, 

15fl  Nassau-st.,  New-YorU. 

FOR  PURCHASING 

Articles  of  Mercliaiidise,  Implements  for 
tUe  Farm,  4}ardeti  and  Mouseliold, 
Oood  Fertilizers,  Seeds,  Vines, 
Plants,  Trees,  &e.,  &c. 


Sole  Agent  in  N.  V.  Wliolesale  and  Kc- 
tail.  Send  for  Circular, 

WoodriifT’s  Portable  Barometer, 
Mntcliinson’s  Wine  and  Cider  Press. 


Miiteliiiascsii’s 

Patent  'Wine  and  Cider  Mill,  with  Press 
combined,  can  malre  four  barrels  per 
day.  Greatly  Improved-  this  year. 

Price  complete,  at  Peekskill,  or  New- 

York . $  50 

“  “  Cleveland,  0  .  24  00 

bend  for  Descriptive  Circular. 
Address 

PEEKSKILL  PLOW  WORKS, 
Peekskill,  N.  T.,  or 
J.  E.  HUTCHINSON,  Cleveland,  O. 


Accoisipllslaed  silt  ! 

A  Cliurninc:  can  now  be  clone  with  the  Old  Dash  Chai'n, 
by  the  pressure  of  a  finger,  in  less  time  than  the  stron.gest 
man  could  hitherto  do  it.  All  butter-makers  agree  that  tlie 
old  churn  accomplishes  the  best  results.  Hall's  Patent  At¬ 
tachment  is  simple,  cheap  and  handy  for  carrying  the  churn 
around.  A  first-rate  Canvasser  wanted  for  New  York  State. 


o  ^ 

>  n 


X  2 
CO 


It  is  Impossible  to  descrihe  its  value  here— try  It 
PATTEKSON  BROTHERS,  Agents,  27  Park  Row,  N.  Y. 

DURHAM  CATTLE. 

PUBLIC  SALE  OF  IMPROVED  DURHAMS, 

•lAMES  GOWEN  will  Bell  at  Public  Sale,  at  Mount  Airy, 
Philadelphia,  on  WEDNESDAY.  20th  .JUNE,  1305,  a  fine 
herd  of  Cows.  Heifers,  Yonns  Bulls,  and  well-srown  Calves, 
bred  by  himself,  and  expressly  to  comhine  good  jiiLKrxG 
WITH  EASY  FEEDING.  The  Catalosuo  will  embrace  some  40 
head  of  Yonna;  Cattle,  which  should  at  this  time  command 
particular  attention,  -when  choice  animals  are  so  much  in 
request  for  breeding.  Cataloaues  will  be  furnished  in  due 
time.  Sale  to  commence  at  11  o'clock,  A.  M. 

A  FIRST  RATE  4  year  old  Bull,  out  of  a  first 
class  mllkinsr  Durham  cow  for  sale,  price  $80.  Also  a 
ycarlins  Devon  Bull— very  fine— price  $20.  Both  genHe. 
Address  E-  T.  PHILLIPS, 

Plainfield,  New  Jersey. 

PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 

Sent  by  Express  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Prices,  Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO., 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


S  TALI  AN  QUEENS  FOR  SALE,  FROM  THE 

mosi  celebrated  importations.  For  particulars  address 
K.  P.  KIDDER.  Burlington,  Vermont. 

The  best  movable  comb  bee-hive  in 

the  WORLD.  Send  stamp  for  Book  Circular.  K.  P. 
KIDDER,  Burlington,  Vermont. 

M.  §t.  Jolrnsville,  Y. 

Purs  Italian  Bees  and  Qneens.  Send  for  Circular. 

■gALAX  DRESSING  Machinery  for  Sale. — Consist- 

.Bf  ing  of  one  Mallory  &  Sanford  Brake  ($4.=i.T  size),  4  Setts 
Steel  scutching  knives,  seed  whipper.  Tow  Sleaker,  shafting 
pullies,  belting,  disc.,  in  complete  order— little  used. 

JOHN  D.  BUCKELEW,  Jamesburg,  N.  J. 


Silver’s  Improve«l  Flax  Fuller, 

WILSON  H.  BLACKWELL, 

Sole  Agent,  144  Pearl-st.,  New  York. 

Pulls  4  acres  a  day.  Send  for  a  Circular. 

J.  B.  James’  M.®§eM«lale  CJemoot 

Works,  manufactures  a  superior  quality  of  ROSENDALE 
CEMENT.  Address  J.  B.  JAMES,  29  Cedar-st.,  New  York. 

The  PEOPLE’S  CLOTHES  WRINGER,  the  best, 
the  cheapest,  and  most  durable,  Cork  Rolls,  Cog  Wheels, 
Galvanized  Iron  Frame.  Depot  of  the  Company  494  Broad¬ 
way,  New  York.  Price  $9.00.  Agents  and  Shippers  liberal¬ 
ly  dealt  with.  Send  for  Circular. 


LABOR  FOR  FARMERS. 

How  to  Obtain  a  Prompt  and  Satisfactory 
Supply. 

In  order  to  meet  the  pressing  want  of  Farm  laborers  felt 
in  all  parts  of  the  country,  especially  in  the  Western  States, 
the  AMERICAN  EMIGRANT  COMPANY  has  organized  a 
system  by  which  men  can  he  supplied  in  any  number  that 
may  he  required  to  auy  designated  locality  in  any  State  in 
the  Union. 

This  object  is  accomplished  by  parties  in  a  given  neighbor¬ 
hood  combining  together  and  ordering  such  men  and  women 
as  they  need.  These  men  or  women  are  forwarded  in  com¬ 
panies  from  twenty  to  fifty  under  the  care  ol  a  conductor  to 
a  point  determined  on,  and  then  delivered  to  the  parties  (or 
their  Agents)  who  liave  ordered  them.  Tlie  utmost  care  is 
taken  by  the  Company  in  the  selection  of  the  Emigrants  at 
New  York,  and  the  wishes  of  the  parties  ordering  them  as  to 
their  Nationality,  age,  and  general  qualifications  are  care¬ 
fully  attended  to. 

A  payment  is  required  in  advance  of  a  sufficient  sum  to 
pay  the  traveling  expenses  to  the  point  indicated,  the  Com¬ 
pany's  fee  lor  the  services  rendered,  and  the  costof  the  con¬ 
ductor  who  accompanies  the  party.  Legal  contract.s  are 
made  with  the  Emigrants  in  accordance  with  the  instructions 
received  both  as  Fo  the  rate  of  wages  to  be  paid,  and  the 
length  of  engagement  made. 

By  this  means  the  Emigrants  con.stantly  arriving  In  New- 
York,  may  be  dispersed  all  through  the  country  and'with  small 
cost  to  the  employer,  as  the  expense  of  transuortation  will, 
in  all  cases  be  stipulated  to  he  repaid  by  the  Emigrant. 

A  large  number  of  carefully  selected  Swedish,  German, 
and  British  farm  laborers  are  expected  to  arrive  during  the 
present  season,  and  it  is  suggested  to  farmers  in  all  sections 
of  the  country  to  avail  themselves  without  delay  of  the  op¬ 
portunity  thus  afforded  of  obtaining  male  and  female  help 
In  the  promptest  and  most  economical  manner. 

For  further  particulars  Address 

JOHN  WILLIAMS. 

General  Agent  for  Emigration, 

3  Bowling  Green,  New  York. 

a  merican  roofing  company. 

-IH-  GREEN’S  PATENT. 

This  Company  is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  the  best 
articles  of  ROOFING  ever  introduced,  consisting  of  a  STOUT 
MATERIAL  made  'WATER-PROOF  bv  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  RUBBER,  hardened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  expressly. 

The  WIUlLE  FABRIC  has  been  thoroughly  tested,  is 
WATER-PROOF,  and  unaffected  hv  changes  of  weather. 

It  rolls  np  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Cloth. 

It  is  designed  for  covering  RAILWAY  C.-\.RS.  STEAM¬ 
BOATS.  DWELLINGS,  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  Is  cheaper  than  any  known  roofing  of  equal  durability. 

It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samples  had  hv  applying  at  the 
Office  of  the  Compauj-.  No.  tl-t  Wall-st.,  New  York. 

HENRY  SMITH,  Agent. 


Eiag-Iislt  Elastic  ISootiiig’. 

Put  up  ready  for  use,  in  40  gallon  iron  bound  bbls.  War¬ 
ranted  the  most  durable  and  economical  paint  now  in  use, 
for  all  kinds  of  roofs,  exposed  iron  work,  &c.  Also  “  Linseed 
Oil  Substitute,”  raw  and  boiled.  The  best  and  cheapest 
paint  oil  made.  F.  .4..  IVHITING  &  CO., 

Victoria  White  Lead  Works, 

104  Water-st.,  New  York. 

f  EAKY  SHINGLE,  CANVAS  or  FELT  ROOFS 
.H-*can  be  made  water-tight  by  using  the  GUTTA  PERCHA 
CEMENT.  LEAKY  TIN  ROOFS  will  wear  five  times  as 
long  if  coated  with  theGUTTA  PERCHA  CEMENT  PAINT, 
the  best  Paint  for  Agricultural  Implements,  out-buildings, 
Fences,  &c.,  &c.  Manufactured  ready  for  use  by  the 

JOHNS  &  CROSLEY  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

No.  78  William-st.,  cor.  Liberty,  New-York. 
Sole  Manufacturers  of  the  Gutta  Percha  Cement  Roofing. 

PUT  WOT  TOUR  TRUST  iW  A  BROKEN  REED. 

Ced.ar  closets  or  Cedar  wood  uncombined  and  alone 
are  useless — worse  than  worthless — as  proteclioii  against 
Moths.  No  known  combination  but 


GROVER  BAKERS 

HIGMEST  PREMIUM 


is  a  defence,  and  that  is— is  emphatically  all  that  is  de¬ 
sired — being  Certain,  Durable,  Fragrant,  and  it  is  withal 
Cheap.  It  is  sold  by  Druggists.  Factured  by 

HARRIS  &  CHAPMAN,  Boston. 

MERRY  CHIMES.  ' 

A  NEW  JUVENILE  MUSIC  BOOK. 

By  L.  O.  Emerson-,  Autlior  of  ‘‘Golden-  Wreath,"  “Harp 
OF  Judah.”  &c.  Containing  Elementary  Instructions,  At¬ 
tractive  Exercises  and  Several  Hundred  Popular  Songs,  Su¬ 
perior  to  all  Similar  Works  in  many  essential  points  and  des¬ 
tined  to  be  the  Most  Popular  and  Salable  Book  for  Schools, 
Seminaries,  and  the  Young  Folks  at  Home  ever  published. 
Tlie  Songs  are  not  old  and  time  worn,  but  New,  Fresh,  and 
Sparklin'g.  Suited  to  all  occasions  and  Alive  with  the  Spirit 
of  the  Times.  A  large  number  now  first  appear  in  print. 
Specimen,  pages,  containing  several  choice  pieces,  will  be 
sent  to  any  one  on  application.  Price  of  “Merry  Chimes,” 
50  cents.  $3  a  dozen.  OLIVER  DITSON  &  CO.,  Publishers, 
277  Washington-street,  Boston. 

iMdIia  Hiifetoei*  Crl®ves 

are  an  invaluable  protection  for  the  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Salt  Rlieum,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYEAS’S  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 

JUNE  NO.  OF  DEMOREST’S  ILLUSTRATED 
MONTHLY,  and  MME.  DEMOREST’S  MIRROR  OF 
FASHIONS,  contain  Brilliant  Novelties,  New  Music,  in 
Memoriam  of  President  Lincoln,  with  Portrait  and  View  of 
the  Funeral  Procession  ;  large  and  elegantSteel  Engravings; 
Illustrated  Poem  by  Theodore  Tilton,  and  other'valuable 
features.  Yearly,  $3,  with  a  valuable  Premium.  Single 
Copies,  ‘25  cents.  Mailed  free  on  receipt  of  price.  No.  89 
Beekman-st.,  New  York, 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  LOCK  STITCH 

SEWING  MACHINES, 

495  RROASJWAY,  NEW  YORK. 


Simple,  Strong  a.nd  Durable. 

And  unapproachable  for  speed,  power  and  efl'ectiveness 
of  operation. 

Dealers  Supplied.  Send  for  ftee  Circular  to 

OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  184  Water-st.,  New-York. 

SEVEN  OCTAVE. 

ROSEWOOD  FIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  Bi-oaclway,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piauo  Fortes,  with  latestimprovement.s. 
Thirty  years’  experience,  with  greatly  Increased  facilities 
for  manufacturing,  enable  ns  to  sell  for  CASH  at  tlie  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  Instruments  received  tlie  liigliest 
award  at  the  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  years  at 
tlie  American  Institiite.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Casli.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 

A  CHALLENGE. — We  offer  for  sale  a  new  no 
cliimney  Kerosene  Oil  Burner,  thatgives  a  most  hriiliaiit 
light  witliout  smoke  or  odor,  tliat  can  not  be  extinguished 
by  sudden  motions,  burns  witliout  a  chimney,  and  fits  almost 
all  Kerosene  Lamps  and  Lanterns.  We  cliallenge  the  world 
to  produce  its  equal.  The  Public  liiis  long  demanded  such  a 
burner,  as  cliimneys  are  easily  and  often  broken,  and  it  will 
eventually  come  into  use  In  every  liouse  where  Kerosene  oil 
is  used.  Send  fifty  cents  and  get  sample  by  rctni-n  mail. 
Agents  Wanted  in  every  County  in  the  United  States,  with 
whom  liberal  arrangements  will  he  made. 

Address  NEW  YORK  LAMP  CO., 

259  Pearl-st.,  New  York, 


Is  constantly  made  by  a  beautiful  Machine  in  the  Window 
at  17  CourtlandPst.,  without  IPIIiE.  'TR.OUBLB,  or 
C-YRE.  Machines  for  5  or  even  250  Burners.  Call  and  ex¬ 
amine.  Manufactors  of  tlie  New  “2  in  1  ”  Mower  and  Rc.ap- 
er,  with  Self-Rake,  and  giving  douule  service.  Combined 
Wlieel  Plow  and  Cultivator.  Rlglits  for  Sale.— Send  for  Cir¬ 
culars.  Address  J.  W.  BAIN,  Prest.  American  Agricultural 
Works,  17  Coui-tlandtrbt.,  New-York. 


HoMsekeeiicFs  Take  W®tice  ! 

D.  LAKE’S  FLY  TRAP. 

Patented  June  21, 1864,  and  Jan.  10, 1865.  Sent  ^  ex'press, 
on  receipt  of  $5.  Address  DAVID  LAKE, 

Smith’s  Landing,.  New  Jersey. 

PORTABLE  ’ 

PRIWTI1¥G-  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants,  Druggists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers, 
&c.  Address  ADAMS  PRESS  CO., ‘26  Ann-st.,  New  York 
Specimen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &c..  Six  cents. 


MME.  DEMOREST’S  EXQUISITE  TOILE'l 

PREPARATIONS.— Lilly  Bloom  and  Roseate  Bloom 
for  improving  tlie  complexion ;  Curling  Cream,  for  heaiitily 
ing  tlie  hair,  and  Everlasting  Perfume  Packets.  .50  cts.  cacli 
Sold  by  all  druggists ;  mailed  free  on  receipt  of  iirice.  Mine 
.DEMOREST’S  Emporium  of  Fashions,  473  Broadway. 

Patent  Cantering  Horses. 

Run  Iiy  the  weiglit  of  the  rider  on  any  good  road.  Every 
boy  and  girl  wants  one.  Prices  $13  to  $2a.  Invalids  Iravel- 
ing  Cliaifs,  for  In  or  out-door  use.  Prices  $20  to  $50.  beud 
stamp  for  Circular.  S.  W.  SMITH,  90  William-st.,  N.  Y. 

Miyslonac  ©rcsssESg'  ©jamoEnd.^ 

Set  in  Patent  Protector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  JOHN 
DICKENSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  of  Diamonds  for  all  Mechanical  purposes.  Also  Man¬ 
ufacturer  of  Glaziers’  Diamonds,  No.  64  Nassau-st.,  Ne-tv- 
York  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  postage 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  the  Diamond  Dresser. 


196 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[June, 


The  Universal  Clothes  Wringer, 

WITM  COG  WSIEECS. 

Peices— No.  IM,  $13 ;  No.  3,  $10 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST- 

*•  This  l8  the  first  Wringer  1  have  found  that  would  stand 
tlie  service  required  of  iC’— J.  P.  HuoeiNS,  Lovcjoy’s  Hotel. 

‘‘In  the  laundry  ot  my  house  there  is  a  perpetual  tluvnks- 
giving  on  Mondays  for  tlie  invention  of  your  excellent 
Wringer."— Kev.  Tueo.  L.  Coylek. 

“  We  think  the  Machine  much  more  than  'pays  for  itself 
every  year  in  the  saving  ot  garments.”— O.  Judd,  Am.  Agr. 

‘‘Tlie  inventor  of  this  Machine  may  have  the  satislaction 
of  knowing  that  he  has  changed  one  of  the  most  toilsome 
parts  of  woman’s  work  into  a  most  attractive  amusement."- 
Mrs.  Henet  Ward  Beechee. 

“  I  heartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment."— Kev.  Dr.  Bellows. 

SW  On  receipt  of  price,  from  any  part  of  the  country 
wliere  wc  have  no  canvassers,  we  send  the  Wringer’ free  of 
freight  cliarges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  township. 

R.  O.  BROWNING, ’34:T  Broad-tvay,  N.  T. 

WHAT  MATCHLESS  EEAUTY  i 

lingeES  on  every  glossy  wave  and  npiet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

IVINS’ 
-PATENT 

HAIR 

CRIMPERS, 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies  hair.  JVo  heat  used,  and 
tio  injury  to  the  hair. 

They  are  put  up  in  beauti¬ 
fully  lithographca  boxes  con¬ 
taining  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengths,  with  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  is  complete  witliont  them.  For  sale 
throughout  the  country.  Retailers  will  be  supplied  by  any 
first-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  York,  Pliiladelphia,  or 
Boston, 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 

E.  IVINS,  Sixtli-st.  and  Columbia  Avc., 
Phlladelpbia,  Pa. 

B.  T.  HAYWARD, 

208  BROADWAY,  NEW  YORK. 


The  above  Cut  represents  one  side  oi  the  New  Memorla. 
Medallion,  and  on  the  otlier  is  a  True  Likeness  of  our  Late 
President.  There  b  no  person  in  the  Union  but  what  will 
want  one  of  these  as  a  Memento  and  Keepsake.  I  will  send 
a  Sample  on  tlie  receipt  of  00  cents.  I  want  an  Agent  in 
every  city  and  town  in  the  country,  to  whom  especial  in- 
ducemeuts  are  oifered. 

B.  T.  1IAYWAI5D,  Mauuiacturing  Jeweller, 

203  Broudway,  New  York. 


Lalors’  Sheep  &  Laixih 


Dipping  Composition, 

Cures  Scab,  Ticks  and  Lick  on  Sheep  or  Cattle,  adds 
over  a  pound  of  wool  to  the  fleece,  improves  its  quality,  and 
adds  to  the  general  health  of  the  sheep,  without  danger 
from  taking  cold. 

For  particu.ars  apply  to 

LALOR  BROTHERS.  Utlca,  N.  Y 
Agents  wanted  for  every  State. 

Also  for  sale,  wholesale  and  retail  by 

GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

60  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York, 
and  H.  B.  LANE,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York. 


Nisliwitz’s  Moiait®!’  Mower 
asicl  Beaper. 

Tlie  Best,  Biglitcst  Draft,  and  Clieapest  Ma- 
cliiiie  in  tlie  Market. 

Four  dilferent  sizes — fully  Warranted.  For  Descriptive 
Circulars,  References,  &c..  Address 

GENERAL  AGENTS, 

J.  N.  CLOVES,  (for  Central  and  Western  N.  Y.,)  Utica. 
P.  S.MESEROLB,  (for  Ill.,  and  the  West,) Chicago,  Ill. 
R.  SINCLAIR  &  CO.,  (for  Maryland  and  Virginia,) 
Baltimore,  Md. 

P,  NISnWITZ,  Manufacturer  and  Proprietor, 

Williarashurgh,  L.  I.,  N.  Y. 


Tlie  lle^t  ill  America. 


The  TJallway  Hoi’se  Power  that  is  unequalled  for  ease  ol 
team,  amount  of  power,  and  has  never  failed  to  take  the 
FIRST  PREMIUM  OVER  ALL  ITS  COMPE¬ 
TITORS  wherever  tested.  The  Combined  Thresher  and 
Cleaner  that  Cleans  equal  to  any  Panning  Mill, 
fit  for  Mill  or  Market.  Threshers,  Separators,  Fanning  Mills 
Wood  Saws,  Seed  Sowers  and  Planters,  &c.  All  of  the  BEST 
in  market.  Send  in  orders  early,  as  we  are  governed  by  ‘‘first, 
come,  first  served.”  I’m-  further  information  send  for  Cir¬ 
cular.  Address  R.  &  M.  HARDER, 

Coblcskill,  Sclioliarie  Co.,  N,  Y. 


PAT.  IMPROVED 

HORSE 

Hay  Fork 


After  extensive  introduction  and  thorougii  trial,  is  now 
oll'ered  to  tlie  public  in  its  improved  form.  Agents  wanted. 
Town,  County,  and  Stale  Rights  for  sale.  Send  for  acircular. 
Address  A.  M.  HALSTED.  67  Pearl-st.,  New-York. 


GARDEN  &  CEMETERY 

ADOaNMENTS. 


r©«lTAIWS,  VASES,  &i. 

Suminer  Houses, 
ARBORS,  CHAIRS,  SETTEES,  &,c. 

WIEE  TRELLISES  AND  ARCHES, 

FOR  VINES,  FLOWERS,  t&c. 


l-'OK  aiOBSSF.  KAICFS,  best 
VW  quality  at  lowest  rates.  For  Sale  by 

JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 

98  WliUani-0t„  New  York  City. 


IRON  FURNITURE, 

Bedsteads  of  Every  Description 

For  Dwelliugs,  Public  Institutions,  Hospitals, 
Prisons,  &c. 

Patent  Spring  Beds,  Mattresses,  &c. 


STABLE  FIXTURES 

liny  Racks,  Mangers,  Stall  Divisions,  &c. 


IRON  RAILING-, 

For  enclosing  Cemetery  Plots,  Offices,  Dwellings, 
Public  Squares,  &c. 


Having  purchased  tlie  business  of  tlie  New  York  Wire 
Railing  Company,  Hutchinson  &  Wiokeksham  late  Agents, 
we  are  now  the  exclusive  Owners  and  Manufacturers  of 

Patent  Wire  Railing  and  Farm 
Fencingj  Window  Guards,  &,c. 

And  we  oiler  to  the  public  the  largest  variety  of  ORNA¬ 
MENTAL  IRON  GOODS  to  be  found  in  the  United  States. 

Particular  attention  given  to  Export  trade. 

CHASE  &  CO. 

Warerooms  524  Broadway, 

Opposite  St.  NichoLdS  Hotel,  KEW  YORK. 

Usii®!!  Mowing'  Maclaine. 

Tills  Machine  Iiavlng  lieen  fully  tested  for  tlie  last  four 
years,  is  recommended  with  confidence  as  the  most  com¬ 
plete  and  eflicient  in  tlie  market.  It  is  capable  of  cutting 
grass,  light  or  lieavy,  wet  or  dry,  lodged  or  standing,  and 
witli  strength,  durability,  ease  o.f  draft,  light  weight,  and 
efficiency,  it  combines  many  minor  conveniences,  not  found 
in  other  macliines.  PASCHALL  MORRIS, 

Agricultural  Warehouse,  1120  Market-st.,  Pliil’a. 

Sole  General  Agent,  for  Eastern  Penn.,  Southern  half  ol 
New  Jersey,  all  Delaware  and  Maryland. 

Bullard’s  Patent  Hay  Tedder. 

The  attention  of  New  York  farmers  is  called  to  this  new 
invention  for  spreading  and  turning  Hay;  second  only  to  the 
Mower,  in  practical  usefulness  on  the  farm.  It  is  simple  in 
its  construction,  efl'ectual  in  its  operation,  and  wondorfiilly 
labor-saving.  It  lias  been  tlioroughly  tested  and  has  never 
failed  to  give  satisfaction.  No  farmer  who  wislies  to  liave 
well-cured  bay  can  aflbrd  to  do  without  it.  Price  for  8  Fork 
Machine  witli  Pole  or  Tliills,  $100.  6  Fork  ones  with  Tliills 
$85,  deliverable  in  Syracuse,  N.  Y.,  or  in  New  York  City. 

SILAS  C.  HERRING,  2.51  Broadway 
Sole  Proprietor  and  Manufacturer  for  tlie  State  of  New  York. 

Important  to  Flax  Growers. 

Rundell’s  Flax  Brake  and  Scutc.lier  combined.  I  want  an 
Agent  in  every  county  in  tlie  loyal  States  to  introduce  a 
clieap,  portable  Flax  Macliine.  Will  do  the  work  as  Rapid¬ 
ly  and  Savingly  a-s  any  other,  witli  one-tentu  tlie  ex¬ 
pense  of  macliine  and  labor.  For  fnrtliei-  description,  send 
for  circular  (sent  free).  Address  C.  M.  RUNDELL,  Pike, 

AVyoming  Co.,  N.  Y. 


BONE  TAFEF. 

Manufactured  by  the  LODI  MANUFACTUR¬ 
ING  CO.,  from  Boues,  Dried  Night  Soil  and 
Guano  ground  fine. 

The  Bone  is  well  known  for  its  lasting  effects, 
and  liiO  Niglit  Soil  and  Guano  for  tlieir  quick 
action,  tlie  combination  producing  a  fertilizer 
EfJUAL  to  Guano,  and  far  superior  to  Siiper- 
JJliliospliate  or  Grotmd  Bones.  Farmers  using  It 

_ flni’ilDT  Ihfi  DJISI,  VP}V1•.^.  Rnnnl.”  nf  ■ih  in  tlio 

rfrW  .  .  - _  _ 

bids,  of  200  lbs.  eacli. 

Address  LODI  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

06  Courtlaudl-st..  New  York. 


Bny  the  Siiaiplest— -Halstcd’s. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


197 


buy  the  best: 


OST  THE  KOAD. 


^TSri> 


The  superiority  of  this  Machine  is  beyond  dispute.  At  its 
first  introduction  it  took  the  lead  of  the  market,  and  the 
peculiar  features  covered  1l>y  its'patent,  togeth¬ 
er  with  the  many  Improvements  added,  have  kept  It  far  in 
advance  of  all  competitors.— In  all  points  of  a  perfect  Har¬ 
vester  and  in  important  feature  of  durability,  it  is  without 


an  equal. 


pbices 

O-  3^  E  ^  T  III  Y 

EEDTJCED. 

Circulars  can  ho  obtained  of  any  of  our  Agents,  or  will 
be  forwarded  by  mall. 

ADRIANCE,  PtATT  &  CO., 

Blanufacturers  a.iul  Proprietors. 
MANUFACTORY,  Fo’keepsie,  N.  Y. 

OFFICE  AND  WAREHOUSE,  165  Greenwicli-st„  New  York. 


PATENT  ROTARY  BARREL  PUMP 

Arranged  with  the  Patent  Barrel  Attachment,  the  most 
complete  and  perfect  article  ever  Invented  for  pumpino  oil 
and  All  KinDS  op  liquids  from  babbels  and  other  casks 
np  into  CANS,  tanks,  &c.  A  most  invaluable  Fixture  for  on 
stohes,  oil  kkfinkkies,  dkuo  stokes,  paint  manufacto- 
EIE8,  &c.,  &0.  We  make  two  regular  sizes  of  this  Barrel 
Pump,  viz.:  Nos.  1  and  2.  No.  1  will  pump  from  8  to  10  gal¬ 
lons,  and  No.  8,  from  16  to  20  gallons  per  minute.  Orders  re¬ 
spectfully  solicited  by| 

W.  &  B.  DOUGLAS, 
MIBDI.ETOWN,  CONN. 

Sole  Proprietors  and  Manufacturers  of  the  article.  . 

Branch  Warehouse,  87  John-st.,  N.  Y.,  where  samples  of 
these  and  our  various  other  kinds  of  Pumps,  Hydraulic 
Rams,  Garden  Engines,  Ship  Pumps,  Oil  Well  Pumps,  Power 
Pumps,  Chain  Pumps,  Iron  "Well  Curbs,  Iron  Horse  Posts, 
Grindstone  Trimmings,  Wrought  Iron  Butts  and  Hinges, 
&c.,  can  he  seen. 

All  the  principal  Habdwaeb  Mekchants,  Plumbers, 
Tinners,  and  Ageioultubal  Dealers  In  this  and  other 
Countries,  keep  our  Manupaotures,  or  will  order  them 
firoxa  US  when  called  for 


BEST  FARi¥imC  LAIBS  in  the  WORLD 


FOR  SAlLiE  BY  THE 

ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  CO., 

In  Tracts  to  suit  Furchasera,  AT  LOW  PRICES* 


THE  ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  COMPANY  HAYE  FOR  SALE, 

000,000  ACRES  of  the  best  Farming  Lands  in  the  Country. 

The  road  extends  from  Dunleitb,  in  the  north-western  part  of  the  State,  to  Cairo,  in  the  extreme  southern 
part,  with  a  branch  from  Contralia,  one  hundred  and  thirteen  miles  north  of  Cairo,  to  Chicago,  on  the  shore  of 
lAike  Jlichigan— altogether  a  length  of  704  miles— and  the  land  which  is  offered  for  sals  is  situated  upon  either 
side  of  the  track,  in  no  instance  at  a  greater  distance  than  fifteen  miics. 

State  of  niinois. 

The  rapid  development  of  Illinois,  its  steady  increase  in  population  and  wealth,  and  Its  capacity  to  produce 
cheap  food,  are  matter#  for  wonder  and  admiration.  The  United  States  Commissioner  of  Agriculture  estimates 
the  amounts  of  the  principal  crops  of  1864,  for  the  whole  country,  as  follows :  Indian  corn ,  530,581 ,403  bushels ; 
wheat,  160,695,823  bushels;  oats,  176,690,064  bushels;  of  which  Uio  farms  of  Illinois  yielded  138,356,135  bushels 
of  Indian  corn;  33,371,173  bushels  of  wheat;  and  24,273,751  bushels  of  oats — in  reality  more  than  one-fourth  of 
the  corn,  more  than  one-fifth  of  the  wheat,  and  almost  one-seventh  of  the  oats  produced  in  all  the  United  States, 

Grain— Stock  Raising. 

Pre-eminently  the  first  In  the  list  of  grain-exporting  States,  Illinois  is  also  the  great  cattle  State  of  tbo 
Union.  Its  fertile  prairies  are  well  adapted  by  nature  to  the  raising  of  cattle,  sheep,  horses  and  mules;  and  in 
the  important  interest  of  pork  packing,  it  is  far  in  advance  of  every  other  State.  The  seeding  of  these  prairks 
lands  to  tame  grasses  fop  pasturage  or  hay,  offers  to  farmers  with  capital  the  most  profitable  results.  The 
hay  crop  of  Illinois  in  1864  is  estimated  at  2,166,725  tons,  which  is  more  than  half  a  million  tons  larger  than  the 
crop  of  any  other  State,  excepting  only  New  York. 

Inducements  to  Settlers, 

The  attention  of  persons,  whoso  limited  means  forbid  the  purchase  of  a  homestead  in  the  older  States,  is 
particularly  invited  to  these  lands.  Within  ten  years  the  Illinois  Central  Railroad  Company  has  sold  1,400,000 
acres,  to  more  than  20,000  actual  settlers:  and  during  the  last  year  264,422  acres — a  larger  aggregate  of  sales 
than  in  any  one  year  since  the  opening  of  the  road.  The  farms  are  sold  in  tracts  of  forty  or  eighty  acres, 
suited  to  the  settler  with  limited  capital,  or  in  larger  tracts,  as  may  bo  required  by  the  capitalist  and  stock 
raiser.  The  soil  is  of  unsurpassed  fertility  ;  the  climate  is  healthy  ;  taxes  are  low  ;  churches  and  schools 
are  becoming  abundant  throughout  the  length  and  breadth  of  the  State  ;  and  communication  with  all  the  great 
markets  is  made  easy  through  railroads,  canals  and  rivers. 

PRICES  AND  TERMS  OP  PAYMENT.., 

The  price  of  lands  varies  from  $9  to  $15  and  upwards  per  acre,  and  they  are  sold  on  short  credit,  or  for 
cash.  A  deduction  of  len  per  cent,  from  the  short  credit  price  4a  made  to  those  who  buy  for  cash.  ■ 

E  X  A.  M  B  B  E  t 

Forty  acres  at  $10  per  acre,  on  credit;  the  principal  one-quarter  Msh  down— balance  one,  two  and  three 
years,  at  six  per  cent,  interest,  m  advance,  each  year. 

Interest.  Pbinoital.  '  Iwtekmt.  Pesncipal. 

Cash  Payment,...., . .$18  00  $100  00  I  PsjTBoat  In  two  yeors,.... . $6  00  100  00 

Payment  in  one  year,... .......  11  00  100  00  [  “  three  years, . .  100  00 

TThe  Same  Land  may  be  I^urcbased  for  @SUO  ®ash. 

Full  information  on  all  points,  together  with  maps,  showing  the  exiict  location  of  Lands,  will  be  furnished 
on  application ,  in  person  or  by  letter,  to 

LAND  COMMISSIONER,  Illinois  Centra!  R.  R,  Co„  Chicago,  Illinois. 


Tlie  Clipper  one  Horse  Mower 

Is  adapted  to  every  variety  of  surface,  and  to  cutting  every 
kind  of  grass. 

This  Slachine  is  capable  of  cutting  three-fourths  to  one 
acre  of  the  heaviest  grass  per  hour,  and  can  be  drawn  as 
easily  by  one  horse  as  ordinary  two-horse  Mowers  by  two 
horses. 

The  height  of  cut  can  be  varied  by  the  driver  while  the 
Machine  is  In  motion,  and  without  leaving  his  seat.  It  is 
simple,  durable,  and  not  likely  to  get  out  of  order. 

Two-Horse  Mowers  and  combined  Machines  of  the  same 
pattern.  r.  h.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New  York. 


HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  PRESSES. 

These  machines  have  been  tested  in  the  most  thorough 
manner  throughout  this  and  foreign  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  of  over  1200. 

The  Horse  Power  is  worked  by  either  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  In  many  respects  possesses  unequalled  advantages.  We 
invite  those  wanting  such  machines  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  promptly  attended  to,  by  addressing 
INGBRSOLL  &  DOUGHERTY,  Greenpoint,  Kings  Co.,L.  I. 


Hiiy  the  Best---Halsted’s, 


/I  MARYLAND  FARMS.— GEOGRAPHI- 

‘ar€#"car’descriptlon  of  Maryland,  with  Catalogue  of 
Maryland  Lands,  for  sale  by 

R.  W.  TEBIPLEMAW  &  CO., 

JLancl  Agents, 

48  Lsxinston-streat,  (Up  stairs,) 
Baltimore  City, 

Embracing  a  description  of  the  Soli  and  Products  of 
Maryland.  ^ 

Send  Twenty-five  Cents  for  a  Copy. 


SECURE  A  HOME. — Lauds  for  sale  m  the  Cele- 
"brated  Fruit  Settlement  of  Hammonton,  New  Jersey,  80 
miles  from  Philadelphia,  on  Railroad,  and  near  the  Hew 
York  Railroad.— No  better  soil  In  the  State.— For  Fruits, 
Yegetables  and  Early  Gardening,  is  the  best  in  the  Union.— 
Hundreds  of  Acres 
made  from  $200  to  $( 

Soft  Water,  Churches,  Schools,  Mills,  btt —  —  - 
$20  to  $23  per  acre,  for  20  acres  and  upward.  10-acre  fruit 
farms,  $300.  Terms  easy.  Title  perfect.  For  full  information 
Address  R.  J.  BYRNES,  Hammonton,  N.  J.  Letters  answered. 

Cheap  Maryland  Farms. 

*10  to  $30  per  acre,  convenient  to  Railroad,  Navigation, 
Churches,  Schools,  &c.,  &c.,  situated  on  the  Eastern  Shore. 
Many  northern  families  are  settling  here.  Descriptive  circu¬ 
lars  giving  all  information  sent  free  to  all  applicants. 

Address  H.  P.  CHAMBERS,  Farm  Agent, 

Federalsburg,  Md. 


Farms  for  sale  of  40  to  180  acres  each,  of 

the  richest  agricultural  land  In  Rock  Co.,  Wis.,  near 
Janesville  City,  well  timbered.  The  Madison  railway  rung 
through,  and  the  Southern  Wisconsin  on  their  border.  Apply 
to  J.  f.  fi.  PEASE,  Janesville,  or  to  B.  F,  DAWSON,  9  East 
ISth-Btreet,  Now  York. 


198 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST, 


[June, 


FREE  MISSOURI 


PARSONS  &  CO., 

at  FUlsIliiig,  near  Wew  Yorls. 

Call  attention  to  the  planting  of  EVEIiOIiEEWS  for 


We  Have  in  conrse  of  Propagation 

335,000  COWCORO  VINES. 

35,000  Delaware,  8,000  Hartford  Prolipio, 


The  Mt§soiiri  liaiid  Company, 

CAPITABj  stock,  $50iS>,00©. 
Office  No.  IS  Nortli  Fifth  Street, 

St.  ILonls,  Missouri. 

DIRECTORS : 


which  this  month  is  the  time. 

No  class  of  trees  will  so  enliven  the  lawn  or  pleasure 
I  grounds  during  the  winter  season. 

They  offer  nearly  200  varieties  of  fine  size  and  form  with 
good  roots.  Among  them  are 

Norway  Spettce. 

Scotch  Fir. 

Atjsteian  Pine. 

Hemlock  Spruce. 

Cupressus  Lawsohiaha. 

Irish  Juniper. 

Swedish  Juniper. 

Pyramidal  Juniper. 

Bhotan  Pine. 


5,000  Rosers’  Hybrids,  3,000  Diana, 
3,000  Iona,  3,000  Adirondao, 


valuable  varieties,  both  old  and  new 
We  thank  our  custoiuers  for  the  liberal  patronage  they  have 
bestowed,  and  assure  them  and  all  Interested  in  vine  and 
grape  culture  that  no  care  or  expense  will  be  spared,  the 
present  season  to  bring  our  vines  to  the  Highest  Standard 
Our  Prices  will  merit  the  attention  of  Dealers  and 
Plaisters.  Rcspousilhle  Agents  are  wanted  in  every 
town  to  form  clubs,  or  to  spend  the  season  in  canvassing. 
Large  commission  will  he  given  to  such  as  can  furnish  relia¬ 
ble  reierences ;  none  others  need  apply. 

A  ddress  with  Stamp,  W.AI.  PERRY  &  SON, 

Bridgeport,  Conn. 


E.  W.  FOX,  of  Pratt  &  Fox, 

IF.  H.  MAURICE,  late  County  Collector, 

MADISON  MILLER,  Fund  Commissioner  Paciflc  R.  R. 
W.  H.  BENTON,  late  Pomeroy  &  Benton. 

CHAS.  H.  HOWLAND,  State  Senator. 


C  H  HOWLAND,  Pres’t. )  M.  MILLEI^and  Commissioner 
W.  H.  MAURICE,  V.-Prs.  f  FELIX  CO^E,  Treasurer. 

Purchase  and  Sell  Real  Estate  of  all  descrip 
tlons.  Attend  to  the  Payment  of  Taxes,  for  non-resi¬ 
dents  ;  and  the  development  or  sale  of  Mineral  Lands.— Have 
extra  facilities  for  placing  Capital  seeking  Investment  in 
Western  Lands.— Will  loan  monies  on  productive  Real-Es¬ 
tate  Security,  in  City  or  Country  as  may  be  desired. 

Emigrants  seeking  Homes,  or  Agents  for  Colo- 
nies  desiring  to  locate  large  bodies  of  Lands  will  find  It  to 
their  advantage  to  apply  to  this  Company. 

All  Commnnications  promptly  answered  without  charge. 


The  undersigned  Is  personally  acquainted  with  the  above 
named  Gentlemen,  and  cheerfully  testifies  to  their  high  re¬ 
spectability,  trustfulness,  and  ability  as  business  men. 

FREDERICK  MDENCH,  State  Senator. 


Dwarf  Pine. 

Ereot  Tew. 

American  Arbor  Vit.5c. 

Siberian  do  do 

Also  of  small  size  the  following  more  rare  varieties.  : 

Dwarf  Norway  Spruce. 

Weeping  do  do 

Oriental  Spruce. 

Conical  do 

Cephalotaxus. 

CUNNINGHAMIA. 

Chamaectparis  variegata. 

JUNIPERUS  OBLONGA  PENDULA. 

do  SQUAMATA 

PiCEA  Nordmaniana. 
do  OEPHALONIOA, 
do  PIOHTA. 
do  FIRMA. 
do  GRANDIS. 
do  NOBILIS; 

PINUS  UNCINATA. 

do  STROBUS  COirPACTA. 
do  MONTICOLA. 

PODOOARPUS. 

Rbtinospora  PISIFERA. 

Taxus  ADPRESSA. 

do  ELKQANTISSIMA. 
do  AUREA. 
do  ERICOIDES. 

Thuja  aukea. 
do  PENDULA. 

do  Hoveyi. 

do  OCCIDENTALI8  «0MPA0TA. 
do  PLIOATA. 

Thujiopsis  borealis. 

Torreya  taxifolia. 

ALSO 

CAMELLIAS,  in  excellent  health. 

STOVE  PLANTS  in  variety. 

RHODODENDRONS,  both  seedling  and  worked  plants,  and 
in  great  variety  of  color. 

For  varieties  and  prices  they  refer  to  their  Catalogues  for 
which  address  them  at 

ff'lMsliSsig-,  near  New-Yorfc, 


FAMxWg  IM  THE  WEST. 

Gently  rolling  Prairie,  interspersed  with  groves  of  timber. 
One  of  the  finest  agricultural  districts  In  the  West,  is  now 
)ust  opened  out  to  the  convenience  of  Railroad  facilities  and 
market.  Its  geographical  location,  adaptation  to  Farming, 
Gardening  and  Dairying,  is  unsurpassed  in  the  West.  This 
beauHfnl  and  desirable  section  of  country  is  located  SO  to  40 
miles  southeast  of  the  City  of  Chicago,  Illinois,  comprising 
the  Middle  and  Southern  portion  of  the  Co.  of  Lake,  Indiana. 

The  Chicago  and  Great  Eastern  Railroad  Inst  completed, 
and  now  In  running  order,  passes  through  the  heart  of  this 
County,  making  Crown  Point,  which  is  the  County  seat,  a 
point,  the  most  important  town  on  the  road  between  Chi¬ 
cago,  and  Logansport,  Indiana. 

The  price  of  improved  farms  range  from  $20  to  $30  per 
acre.  Unimproved  lands  from  $10  to  $15  per  acre.  We  now 
have  ten  (10)  improved  Farms  for  sale— varying  in  size  from 
150  to  1,300  acres  eacli— we  have  also  5000  acres  of  unimproved 
lands,  which  will, be  sold  In  quantities  to  suit  purchasers. 

For  further  particulars,  Address  (enclosing  stamp) 

CLARK  &  CLEVELAND,  Real  Estate  Agents, 
Crown  Point,  Lake  Co.,  Indiana. 


FAISM  TAr«13>l— 

^Acresat  low  prices  and  accommodating  terms.— Frank- 
llnvllle  Tract. — Gloucester  County,  New.Iersey,  25  miles 
south  of  Philadelphia,  on  Railroad  running  from  Pliiladel- 

Bhla  and  Camden  to  Cape  May.  In  lots  to  suit  purchasers. 

Irculars  with  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  Hon.  Wm.  Parry, 
and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  free  by  addressing 
JOHN  H,  COFFIN  &  CO.,  Franklinvillo,  Gloucester  Co., 
New-Jersey.  Also  Improved  Farms  from  20  Acres  upward. 


ACRES  of  choice  Illinois  land,  500  is  ex- 
iFcellent  timber,  300  rolling  Prairie  ailjolnlfig,  within 
six  miles  of  three  difl'erent  Railroads  in  Marion  Co.,  Ill., 
from  10  to  15  dollars  per  acre.  Enquire  of  J.O.  CHANU,  Esq., 
Salem,  or  L.  E.  MINER,  Toulon,  Illinois. 


New  Bwarf  Celery. 

strong  Plants  of  this  superb  variety  will  be  ready  from 
1.5th  June  to  15th  July. 

Price  $1  per  100;  $7.50  per  1,000;  $50  per  10,000,  carefully 
packed  to  ship  to  any  part  of  the  United  States.  Plain  print¬ 
ed  directions  for  the  culture  and  winter  preservation  of 
Celery  accompanying  each  package,  instructive  alike  to  the 
Amateur  or  Gardener,  containing  as  it  does  our  experience 
of  IS  years  as  Market  Gardeners. 

HENDERSON  &  FLEMING.  07  Nassau  St.,  New  York. 


T'o  BBiy  CaistoBiiers  ! 

As  in  the  bight  of  the  overwhelming  business  of  the  past 
busy  season,  I  was  unable  to  find  time  to  respond  to  all  let¬ 
ters  of  inquiry  received,  t  would  now  give  general  notice  to 
my  patrons  th.at  if  any  of  them  tailed  to  receive  the  seed 
ordered,  (which  occasionally  happens  from  tlie  breaking  of 
packages,  miscarriage,  indistinctness  of  address,  dislionesty 
of  officials,  and  like  causes,)  if  they  will  notify  me  of  tlie  fact, 
I  tvlli  refund  their  money  or  place  It  to  their  credit  for  next 
season,  as  tliey  may  elect,  as  I  insure  all  seed  ordered  to  reach 
them,  JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY  Marblehead,  Mass. 


Tm’iitp  §eed  toy  Mall. 

J.  M.  TMORKIIRN  Sc  C©.,1 5  Jolin-st.,  N.Y., 


offer 


their  Pure  and  Selected  Stocks 

Of 

Turnip 

Seed 

by  mall. 

postage  pre-paid,  at  the  following 

rates : 

Early  White  Dutch, . per 

OZ., 

10  cts.; 

per  lb 

,$1 

German  Teltow, . 

» 

20  “ 

“ 

2 

Red  Top  Strap  Leaf, . 

» 

10  '■ 

» 

1 

English  White  Globe, . 

10  " 

75c. 

“  “  Norfolk, _ 

10  “ 

750. 

Long  White  French, . 

“ 

10  “ 

« 

1 

“  “  Tankard . 

10  “ 

« 

1 

Yellow  Stone . 

■* 

10  '• 

1 

Golden  Ball,  extra  fine, . 

» 

10  “ 

1 

Yellow  Aberdeen, . 

10  •• 

“ 

1 

Yellow  Finland, . 

“ 

20  " 

» 

2 

50 

Dale's  Hybrid.  . . . . 

10  " 

75c. 

Improved  Ruta-Baga . 

10  “ 

1 

Skirving’s  do  . 

«• 

10  “ 

1 

Laing’s  do  . 

“ 

10  “ 

1 

TRADE  PRICE  LIST 

of 

the 

Above 

for 

Dealers,  just  publisiieil. 

Also 

Pure  DONG  ORANGE  CARROT  SEED  can  be 
sown  In  this  latitude  up  to  the  flr.st  of  July. 

15  cts.  per  oz.;  $1.50  per  Ih. 

.1.  M.  THORBUKN  &  CO.,  15  ,Tohn-st.,  New-York. 


Turnip  Seed. 

New  Sweet  German  (beat  late  keeping  winter,  true,)  and  all 
other  best  early  and  late  Turnips,  by  mail  or  Express.  Priced 
catalogues  to  any  address.  B.  M.  WATSON, 

Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


Agriculturist  strawberry,  25  cts.  each. 

Osage  Plants,  1000,  $15  and  $12.  Grapes,  largest,  best, 
cheapest  stock  we  know,  Iona,  Adirondac,  Israelis,  Dela¬ 
ware,  Concord,  Hartford,  Norton’s  Virginia,  Crevellng,  Dia¬ 
na,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  &o.,  &c.,  Catawba,  1  and  2  year,  per  1000, 
$70  to  $30.  KOSF.S,  600  varieties,  many  very  new  and  choice. 
Lilies,  Gladiolus,  Dahlias,  Tiger  Flowers,  Tuberoses,  100  $2 
to  $6.  Green-House  and  Bedding  Plants,  an  immense 
stock;  74  fine  bedders,  our  choice,  packed,  $10.  Garden 
Plants.— Sweet  Potato^Nansemond,  5000  packed,  $15,  Cab¬ 
bage,  Tomato,  Peppers,  Egg  Plants,  &c.,  &c.  Good  Agents 
wahted  by  the  month.  Address  F.  K.  PHCENIX, 

Bloomington  Nursery,  McLean  Co.,  HI. 


Mansemond  sweet  potato  plants.— 

Of  best  quality,  during  May  and  June.  Put  up  to 
carry  safely  long  distances.  Prices,  500,  $2  ;  1,000,  $3;  5,000, 
$13 ;  10,000.  $25.  This  variety  Is  hardy,  prolific,  and  profitably 
grown  at  the  North.  Send  for  our  circular  of  instructions, 
and  experience  of  those  growing  them.  Address, 

MUKBAY  &  CO.,  Foster’s  Crossings,  Warren  Co.,  O. 


^rape  Vines  Wanted, 

Desirable  next  fall. 

IDjOOO  ESelaware. 

10,000  Concord,. 

3,000  Iona. 

1  year  old,  1st  and  2nd  class.  Address  with  prices, 

C.  W.  WARD,  Box  419,  New  York  City  P.  0, 

Importaiat  t©  Fruit  Iws’iiwers. 
THE  GREAT  RESULT  at  LENGTH  ATTAINED. 
Best  an<l  Cheapest  Fruit  Basket 
in  the  World. 


This  new  iJasket,  made  of  Veneer,  for  Strawberries,  &o., 
IS  the  most  simple,  useful,  Jiiffeinous  and  cheap  article  of  the 
knia  now  in  use.  It  seems  to  have  overcome  all  the  objec* 
tions  known  to  Fruit  Growers  or  Fruit  Dealers,  ns  all  alike 
are  at  once  impressed  with  its  manifest  utility.  The  fact  is 
now  well  known  to  every  one  that  a  tight  box  should  never 
be  used.  This  new  Basket  is  thoroughly  ventilated,  remark¬ 
ably  attractive  In  appearance  when  nlled  with  fruit— and  can 
be  packed  in  one-quarter  less  space  than  the  round  basket  or 
box.— It  is  not  only  very  strongly  made,  but  is  sold  at  a  much 
less  price  than  anything  of  the  kind  now  in  market. 

Substantial  Crates,  to  hold  fi'om  12  to  96  quart  baskets,  and 
so  arranged  that  the  hery'ies  can  not  spilt  out,  even  if  tlie 
Orates  are  overturned. 

AlflEiaiCAN  BASKET  OOSffPANT, 
CORNER  GROVE  AND  HIGH-STS., 
Office  313  CHAPEL-ST.,  New  Haven,  Conn. 


FRUIT  BOXES. 

The  Best  and  Cheapest  one  manufactured  at  ANSONIA, 
CONN.,  by  JOHN  H.  DOOLITTLE.  They  can  be  shipped  to 
any  part  of  the  country  in  pieces  and  put  together  by  any 
person  at  the  rate  of  1500  per  day,  ivithout  any  tools  what¬ 
ever.  Price  $10  per  1000,  for  the  parts,  for  quart  size. 

Samples  at  Agriculturist  Office. 

SEND  FOR  CIRCULAR. 


THE  V.ENEER  FRUIT  BASKET. 

BEECHER’S  PATENT  May  31st,  1864. 

All  Fruit  Growers  and  Dealers  who  have  small  Aults  that 
they  wish  to  put  into  market  economically,  and  in  the  best 
condition,  and  most  salable  manner,  should  use  the  cele¬ 
brated  VENEER  FRUIT  BASKET.  For  cut  and  descrip¬ 
tion  of  Basket,  see  February  and  Jlarch  numbers  of  Ameri¬ 
can  Agriculturist.  Circulars  of  Basket  and  Crates  sent  on 
application  to  A.  BEECHER  &  SONS,  IVestville,  Conn. 

Baskets  and  Crates  for  sale  ’oy  IV.  H.  CARPENTER, 
00  Vesey-st.,  New-York,  and  other  dealers. 


Chemical  whale  oil  soap,  for  preventing 

and  removing  insects -on  Plants,  Animals  and  FnrnUure. 
Manufactured  by  5V.  H.  PINNER, 

No.  112  West  17th  street, 
New-5  lii'k. 


Il€>t  Wn-ter  Fiireaees 

for  Warming  Green-lionses,  Conservato¬ 
ries,  Graperies,  See, 

WEATHERED  &  CHEHBVOY,  117  Prince-st„  New-York. 


AiwBiioiilatcffl  FjBcific  ®«bjibbo. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phosphate  of  Lime ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  tlie  Trade. 

Pamplilets  with  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
fl-om  soientlnc  agriculturists,  showing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  Aom  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

131  Pearl-st.,  New-York 


1 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURIST, 


199 


A.  M.  BALSTED, 

67  Pearl“St.,  New-Yorlc, 

Prodsiee  Commission  Merchant, 

FOE  THE  SALE  OP’ 

J  ^  ^  5 
a  5  ®  S 

P  ,  M  C4 

KEFERENCES.-Benj.  Loder,  Esq..  N.  T,,  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  li..  Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O..  Crasm  &  Co.,  N.  T., 
and  Chicago,  III.,  Geo.  M.  Todd,  BnrUngton,  Iowa. 

Send  for  Webklt  Pbioe  Cokrknt.  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 


S.  B,  COKOfER, 

Commissi®!!  Dealer, 

260,  261  &  262  West  Wasltington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FtJLTON-ST. 

.  Fartionlar  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Refers  to  the  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Warated. 

THE  SECRET  VeRVICE,  THE 
FIELD,  THE  DUNGEON, 
AND  THE  ESCAPE. 

By  ALBERT  ».  RICHARDSON, 
Tribune  Correspondent. 

The  above  work  will  appear  In  the  best  style  of  typogra¬ 
phy,  containing  two  engravings  on  steel,  and  eight  on  wood, 
from  the  pencils  of  our  first  artists. 

It  will  embrace  Mr.  K,ICHAIlDSON’SUBJP.\R.AIi- 
IjEIiliED  EXPERIENCE  FOR  POUR  YEARS. 

I.  Travelling  through  the  South  in  the  SECRET  SER¬ 
VICE  OF  THE  TRIBUNE  at  the  outbreak  of  the  War. 

II.  With  our  armies  and  fleets  both  East  and  West,  dur¬ 
ing  the  first  two  years  of  the  Rebellion. 

III.  HIS  THRHjUING-  capture  while  running 
the  batteries  on  tlie  Mississippi  River  at  Vicksburg,  wliere 
more  than  half  his  companions  were  either  killed  or 
wounded. 


BOOKS  FOE,  FAEMERS  and  OTHERS. 


[Any  of  the  following  hooks  can  he  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  July  1st.] 

Allen's  (L.  F.)  Rural  Architecture... . . . if  i  50 

Allen's  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book . . .  1  50 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier . . . . . . . .  .so 

American  Rose  Culturist . . .  SO 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants. . . .  1  7.5 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holly) .  CO 

Barry's  Fruit  Garden . . .  1  7.7 

Beecher’s  (Henry  Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming..  1  25 

Bement’s  Poulterer’s  Companion.... . . . .  2  00 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Fancier  ........  . . .  30 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia .  1  50 

Bousslngaulfs  Rural  Economy .  1  co 

Brldgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . . .  75 

Brldgeman’s  Tonng  Gardener’s  Assistant... . . .  2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor. . .  75 

Brldgeman’s  Florist's  Guide . . .  75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  German) . .  50 

Break’s  Book  of  Flowers .  1  50 


Ftwcfiasing  A^eiicys 

The  undersigned  will  Purchase  to  Order^  on  favorable 
terms,  and  at  a  moderate  commission,  any  articles  of  neces¬ 
sity  or  luxury,  of  small  or  large  value,  such  as  Supplies  for 
Families,  Goods  for  Merchants,  Farmers,  Mechanics,  &c. 
Money  sent  by  mail  or  otherwise,  will  be  immediately  ac¬ 
knowledged,  and  goods  promptly  forwarded  as  directed. 
Letters  of  Inquiry  will  receive  immediate  attention. 

S.  COKOVER,  Jb.,  160  Fulton-st,  New-Tork. 

Refers  by  permission  to  Opposite  St.  Paul’s  Church. 

Wm,  E.  Dodge,  Jr.,  Esq.^  A.  D.  Randolph,  Esq. 


SWIFT  &  DEZED?DORF, 

Produce  Commission  Merchants,  No.  4  Broadway,  New-Tork. 

BEFEH,  BT  PERMISSIOir,  TO 

H.  D.  W.alhrldge  &  Co.,  N.  Y.|  King  Brothers,  Toledo,  Ohio. 

Bllven,  Mead  &  Co.,  “  Kraus  &  Smith,  “  " 

E.  Bliss,  Esq.,  ”  V.  H.  Ketchara,  Esq.,  “ 

John  A.  Gilbert,  Esq.  “  '  G.  P.  Smith,  Esq.,Clevel’d  “  ;  1 

W.  G.  Hibbard,  Esq.,  Chicago,  Illinois. 


FOCJR  YEARS  IN  SECESSIA: 

ADVENTURES 

WITHIN  AND  BEYOND  THE  UNION  LINES  s 

BY 

JUNIUS  HENRI  BROWNE. 

Special  War  Correspondent  of  the  Next)  York  Tribune. 

This  work  embraces  the  author’s  experiences  through  a 
wide  range  of  stirring  events,  while  accompanying  the  Na¬ 
tional  Armies  and  Fleets.  It  will  also  Include  a  full  account 
of  the  capture,  twenty  months'  imprisonment,  and  escape  of 
the  author  and  his  companion,  Mr.  Albert  D.  Riohard- 
soF,  with  minute  details  of  their  perilous  journey  of  400 
miles  through  tlie  enemies’  country,  aided  by  Negroes  and 
the  famous  Union  Guides— DAN  ELLIS,  and  the  “NAME¬ 
LESS  HEROINE.”  This  work  will  he  published  June  1st, 
and  will  be  a  book  of  great  Interest. 

Tlie  Atiieracan  Coiiliict. 

BY  HORACE  GREELEY. 

The  fairness,  thoroughness,  and  judicious  arrangement  of 
Vol.  1,  of  this  work  has  gained  for  it  both  among  its  subscri¬ 
bers  and  the  Newspaper  Press  of  all  parties,  a  degree  of  fa¬ 
vor  nowhere  accorded  to  any  other  history  of  tlie  Rebellion. 
The  concluding  Volume  will  be  issued  at  the  earliest  day 
practicable,  consistent  with  accuracy  and  completeness. 

Experienced  Canvassers  are  wanted  for  the  above 
works,  which  are  sold  only  by  subscription. 

O.  D.  CASE  &  CO.,  Publishers, 
Hartford,  Conn. 


TIae  Hee-Meeper’s 
Text  Book 

(containing  the  latest  discoveries), 
and  the  Nucletts  Swarming  Side¬ 
opening  Bee  Hive  [n  direct  im¬ 
provement  over  other  hives'].  See  en¬ 
graving  and  prices  in  May  No.  Pure 
Italian  Queens,  15.  Large  Illustrated  Circulars,  and  Terms 
to  Agents  sent  free. 

Cr€t  tlie  Latest,  Clieapest,'  and  Best. 
Address  H.  A.  KING  &  BRO.,  Nevada,  Ohio. 


WEW  MUSIC— THE  NATION  IN  TEARS— IN 
-I™  Meinoriam  of  President  Lincoln,  with  a  heaiitifnl  por¬ 
trait  and  monument;  very  solemn,  solo,  duet,  trio  or  full 
chorus.  Also  “  Love  on  tlie  Brain,”  a  very  amusing  and 
popular  song  ;  “  Kiss  me  while  I’m  Sleeping,”  sang  by  Miss 
Harris,  with  great  applause.  Also  “  Petroleum’s,  What’s  the 
Matter “  Everybody’s  Love  Song,”  a  real  gem  :  all  with 
beautiful  title  pages.  Just  published  by  WM.  JENNINGS 
DEMOREST,  89  Beekman-st.  Sold  by  dealers  in  music  and 
periodicals;  mailed  free  on  receipt  of  price,  30  cents  each. 


$1©  Made  troni 

”■  Agents  Wanted  to  sellthe  likeness  of  the  late  PRESIDENT 
LINCOLN  AT  HOME.  Beautifully  Engraved  and  print¬ 
ed  In  Tint,  on  paper,  18x21  inches.  Sells  readily  for  $1.00. 
Send  25  cents  for  sample  to  F.  W.  SUMNER  &  CO.,  No.  41 
Park  Row,  (upstairs)  New  York. 


IV.  HIS  CONFINEMENT  FOR  MONTHS 
IN  SEVEN  DIFFERENT  REBEL.  PRISONS. 

V.  HIS  ESCAPE  AND  ALMOST  MIRACU¬ 
LOUS  .TOURNEY  BY  NIGHT  of  nearly  400  miles, 
aided  BY  NEGROES  AND  UNION  MOUNTAIN¬ 
EERS  of  North  Carolina  and  Tennessee,  through  the  ene¬ 
my’s  country  to  our  lines. 

It  will  abound  in  STIRRING  EVENTS  NEVER 
BEFORE  GIVEN  TO  THE  PUBLIC,  and  contain 
especially  minute  details  of  the  escape,  which  have  not  yet 
appeared,  including  a  description  of 

DAN  ELLIS,  the  famous  Union  Pilot, 

AND  THE 

“UNKNOWN  G-UIOE,” 

in  the  person  of  a  Young  Lady,  who  piloted  Mr.  Richard¬ 
son  and  his  comrades  by  night,  out  of  a  Rebel  ambush. 

In  view  of  the  author’s  rich  material,  his  well-known 
trustworthiness,  and  grapliic  descriptive  powers,  the  pub¬ 
lishers  feel  justified  In  predicting  a  work  of  unusual  inter¬ 
est,  containing  more  of  the 

Fact,  iiiciilent  ami  Romance  of  tl»e  "^Var, 
than  any  other  which  has  yet  appeared. 

SOLD  ONLY  BY  SUBSCRIPTION.' 

Agents  wanted  for  every  city,  county  and  township  In 
the  United  States.  This  work  presents  a  rare  opening  to 
both  men  and  women,  who  desire  lucrative  employment. 

For  particulars,  address 

AMERICAN  PUEMSHING  COMPANY, 
Successors  to  HURLBUT,  SCRANTON  &  CO., 

HARTFORD,  CONN. 


Sal>S»atSi  Scisool  @*apei'iMteM<lents 
and  Teaclier.^  will  be  interested  in  the  series  of 
small,  clieap,  but  comprehensive  Lesson  Books,  on  a 
new  plan,  entitled  “  Lessons  for  Every  Sunday  in  the 
Year.”  They  are  arranged  in  series  of  52  lessons  each, 
with  many  notes,  references,  etc.  These  are  selected 
so  that  with  the  “  Connecting  History”  they  give  a  com¬ 
prehensive  and  connected  view  of  the  whole  Bible. 
No.  1  embraces  ttie  period  from  the  Birth  of  Christ  to 
the  end  of  Acts.  No.  2  embraces  the  whole  New  Testa¬ 
ment  in  its  connecting  history,  but  is  mainly  upon  the 
second  part  of  the  book.  No.  3  extends  from  .5dam  to 
Elijah  ;  and  No.  4  (not  yet  ready)  will  extend  from 
Elijah  to  Christ.  They  are  approved  and  used  by  all  de¬ 
nominations  ;  and  are  adapted  to  scholars  of  all  ages, 
able  to  read  the  Bible.  Nos.  1,  2,  and  3,  are  now 
ready.  As  an  evidence  of  their  value,  it  may  be  stated 
that  of  No.  1,  the  first  issued,  about  150,000  copies 
have  already  been  called  for.  Price  of  each  series,  15 
cents  each  ;  $1  50  per  dozen  ;  $12  per  100.  If  to  go  by 
mail,  4  cents  each  extra  for  postage;  or,  if  in  packages  of 
tenor  more  3  cents  each.  As  specimens,  Nos.  1,  2,  and  3 
will  be  sent  post-paid  for  50  cents.  Address  Publisher  of 
American  Agriculturist,  New  York. 


The  Peatrie  Fars^aei*. 

Commencement  of  New  Volume,  July  Isf. 

The  commencement  of  a  new  volume  affords  a  good  op¬ 
portunity  to  subscribe  for  the  most  popular  and  valuable 
Agricultural,  Horticultural,  and  Rome  Paper  in  tlie  West. 
The  Farmer  is  published  IVeekly,  in  Semi-Anniial  Volumes 
at  TWO  DOLLARS  per  year,  or  ONE  DOLLAR  for  Six 
months.  For  Western  Farmers,  or  those  interested  in  farm¬ 
ing  in  the  West,  it  is  of  great  value,  treating  of  all  the  pecu¬ 
liarities  relating  to  Western  Farming,  Fruit  Growing,  and 
giving  each  week  a  carefully  prepared'  Live  Stock  and  Pro¬ 
duce  Market  Report. 

The  condition,  prospects,  and  extent  of  the  growing  crops, 
is  recorded  weekly,  giving  the  best  idea  that  can  he  obtain¬ 
ed  on  these  points  as  it  comes  from  the  Farmers  themselves. 

Snlisorlption  fi-om  July  to  January,  .$1.00. 

Clubs  of  10  will  entitle  the  sender  to  a  copy  free  for  the 
same  time. 

All  subscriptions  received  in  June  will  receive  the  paper 
fl-om  the  time  the  subscription  Is  received  to  the  close  of  the 
year.  Good  Agents  wanted  everywhere. 

Address  EMERY  &  CO.,  Chicago,  Ill. 

®iiy  the  Malstecl’s, 


Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures . 

Buist’s  Flower  garden  Directory. . 

Bnist’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener. . . . . . 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America . 

Carpenters  and  Joiners’  Hand  Book.  .(Holly) . . 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide . 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener . 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book . . 

Cole’s  Veterinarian.. . 

Colman’s  Agriculture . . 

Copeland’s  (Joiintry  Life . . . . 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper . 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  crurner) . i.'.’.' 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor . 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor..!!!.".' . 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual . 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) . . . . . ! ! . 

Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening  (new  Edition)! . 

Downing’s  Cottage  Residences . .  " " 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America. . . 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry . . 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  (Jrower’s  Guide . ! ! ! ! ! . 

Employment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny. !!! . 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardene'r. .  , ! . 

Flax  Culture . (Ready  next  month) . !!! . 

French’s  Farm  Drainage . . . 

Field's  (Thomas  W.)  Pear  Culture . . !.!!!! . 

Fish  Culture . 

Flint  (CliarlesL.)  on  Grasses . !!!!!!!!!! 

Flint's  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming . " 

Fuller's  Grape  Culturist. . . 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist . . ! " ' 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding . 

Gray’s  Manual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  In  one  Vol... 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow . 

(juenon  on  Milch  Cows . !.'!!!" 

Hall's  (Miss)  American  Cookery . !!!!!!!! 


Haraszthy  (Jrape  Culture,  &c.  .  .  . 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain., 


do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates. 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers . 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  by  Cleveland . 

Hop  Culture . (Ready) . 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Yhere  to  Find  One.. .  . ■' 

J aqnes’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees . ! . ! ! ! 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,,'&c . . . 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry 


Johnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry . 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening . 

Langstrotli  on  tlie  Honey  Bee  . ! 

London’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Giardeu . 

Leuchar's  Howto  Build  Ilot-lionses . . 

Lieiiig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Ciiemistry. . 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture . 

Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses  . ' 

Manual  ot  Agriculture  by  G.  Enier.soii  and  C.  L.  Flliit' 

Mayhew’s  Illriatrated  Horse  Doctor  . 

Mayhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management .  .. 

JIcMahon’s  American  Gardener . 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot . 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd . . . 

.My  Farm  of  Edgewood . . 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record . " 

Neill's  Practical  Gardener.... (Pardee) . 

Norton’s  Scientlflc  Agriculture . 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee . !! 

Onion  Culture  . . . . . . .  . . 

Our  Farm  ofFour  Acres  (hound)  60c . . . (paper) 

Pardee  on  Strawliorry  Culture . 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves . 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer.. 


Quinhy’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping 
Rabbit  Fancier. 


Randall’s  SheepHushandry . . . 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Slieep  Husbandry. . 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden . 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses . . . 

Rural  Affairs _ (bound) _ 3  Vols _ each . 

Saxton’s  Farmers'  Library,  .set  of  3  Vols.  .morocco . 

do  do  do  do  3  VoIs..clotIi . 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Bo®k . . 

Shepherd’s  own  Book. . 

Skillful  Hon.sewlfe  . . . 

Smith’s  Landscape  Gardening . 

Spencer’s  Education  .of  Children . 

Stewart’s  (John)  Stable  Book . 

Ten  Acres  Enough.. 


Thaer's  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture. 
Thomas’  Fruit  Culturist . . . 


Thompson's  Food  of  Animals.. 

Tobacco  Culture . 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual . 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Affairs . 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages . 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture . 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens . 

IVaring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . 

IVatsoh's  American  Home  Garden . 

Wax  Flowei^  CArt  of  Making) . 

Wheat  Plant  (John  Klippart’s) . 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes . 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse . 

Youatt  and  ilartin  on  Cattle . . . 

Youatt  on  the  Hog . . . 

Yoiiatt  on  Sheep  . . 

Youmans’  Household  Science . 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry . . . 


1  50 
1  .TO 
1  00 
5  00 
60 
75 
75 
60 
75 

5  00 
4.50 

75 
1  50 
1  50 
1  50 

1  25 
30 

6  50 

2  ;50 
8  00 

75 

1  no 

1  50 
1  50 
50 
1  50 
1  25 

1  25 

2  00 
2  00 
1  50 

20 
1  25 

4  00 
1  25 

75 
1  25 

5  00 

3  50 

4  no 

1  75 
1  50 
40 
1  75 
60 
1  no 

1  75 

1  25 

2  00 
2  00 

2  03 
1  50 

50 
1  25 

1  50 
1  00 

3  bo 
8  50 

2  50 

1  75 

2  00 
1  50 
1  50 

75 
1  25 
20 
SO 
75 
1  50 
1  50 
60 
1  75 
30 
1  50 

1  00 

3  00 
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1  50 
0  50 

5  50 
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2  25 
75 

1  50 
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2  00 


soo 


AMERICAN  ACRICtrLTURIST. 


FAIRSANKS’ 

STANDAED  SCALES. 

PRICBS  REDVCRD. 

A  uniform  standard  of  Weights,  and  a  correct  system 
of  weighing,  are  subjects  claiming  the  attention  of  every 
individual  in  the  community, 

A  correct  Scale  is  a  just  arbiter  between  buyer  and  seller, 
and  It  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that  an  Instrument  so  uni¬ 
versally  called  upon  to  decide  questions  of  great  value  in  the 
daily  and  hourly  transactions  of  business,  should  be  of  such 
reliability  and  exactness  as  to  secure  the  confidence  of  all 
those  who  may  be  affected  by  the  results  indicated. 

The  invention  of  these  Scales,  and  the  Improvements  that 
have  been  fi-om  time  to  time  adopted,  are  the  resuit  of  many 
years’ close  observation  and  practical  experience;  and  we 
have  now  brought  them  to  such  a  degree  of  accuracy  that 
they  may  safely  be  relied  upon  in  every  transaction  by  weight. 
Their  construction  is  upon  the  most  correct  mathematical 
principles;  all  defects  so  commonly  met  with  in  compound 
balances  have  been  overcome  by  practical  skill  and  faithful 
■workmanship ;  and  hence  their  operation  is  delicate,  and  in 
every  case  unerringly  correct. 

The  reputation  which  these  Scales  have  acquired  has  been 
of  steady  growth  from  the  commencement  to  the  present 
time,  and  is  based  upon  the  principal  adopted  by  us,  and  nev¬ 
er  deviated  from,  of  allowing  none  but  perfect  weighing  ma¬ 
chines  to  go  forth  from  our  establishment. 

By  a  strict  adherence  to  this  principle,  the  confidence  of 
the  public  In  the  accuracy  of  these  weighing-machines  has 
steadily  Increased,  and  with  it  the  demand. 

We  have  received  many  awards  of  premiums  of  Gold  and 
Silver  Medals,  from  nearlv  all  the  Scientific  Associations  and 
Institutes  in  the  United  States,  also  numerous  first  premiums 
from  State  and  County  Agricultural  Societies  at  their  annual 
fairs ;  but  the  most  satisfactory  testimonials  which  we  have 
received  are  from  the  thousands  of  business  men— including 
the  Managers  of  Kailroads,  the  Officers  of  Government,  and 
other  Public  Works,  Merchants,  Manufacturers,  the  For¬ 
warders  of  merchandise,  and  others— who  have,  during  the 
last  thirty  years,  subjected  these  scales  daily  to  severe  usage, 
and  to  the  most  rigorous  tests. 

Nearly  all  the  Kailroads  in  the  United  States  are  supplied 
with  Scales  of  our  manufacture.  Fairbanks’  Scales  are  also 
almost  exclusively  in  use  on  all  the  principal  Kailroads  of 
Great  Britain. 

From  over  one  hundred  different  modifications  of  our 
Scales  we  have  selected  the  following  illustrations  of  a  few 
of  the  leading  sizes  and  kinds,  which  will  serve  to  show  that 
they  .are  adapted  to  a  great  variety  oi  uses,  to  suit  the  re¬ 
quirements  of  every  branch  of  business. 


HAY  AND  CATTLE  SCALES, 


For  weighing  loaded  Wagons,  Carts,  Live  Stock,  Produce, 
Ac.  Constructed  of  Iron,  with  steel  bearings,  and  not  liable 
to  derangement  or  damage  by  exposure  to  the  weallier. 


More  than  ten  thousand  of  these  convenient  and  durable 
Scales  have  been  put  up  by  us  in  all  parts  of  the  United  States 
and  the  British  Provinces.  They  are  of  five  sizes,  viz.;  two, 
three,  four,  six  and  ten  tuns,  and  will  be  set  by  experienced 
workmen  in  any  part  of  tlie  United  States  or  the  Canadas. 

They  are  made  witli  a  sliallow  pit,  or  with  no  pit  at  all, 
according  to  location,  as  tiic  purchaser  may  prefer. 


COAL  DEALERS’  SCALES, 

COAL  DEALER 


Similar  In  tlielr  construction  totne  Hay  Scale.  Used  exten¬ 
sively  by  coal  de.alers  and  miners,  also  in  Iron  Houses  and 
Founderles.  Capacity— Two.  Tliree,  Four  tuns.  Tills  Scale 
may  be  set  in  tiie  liarn-fioor  or  elsewhere,  and  used  for  weigh¬ 
ing  Hay,  Grain,  Live  Stock,  &c.  It  may  be  either  stationary 
or  so  arranged  ns  to  be  easily  removed  from  place  to  place 
when  req^uired.  Coal  dealers  and  others  who  are' about  pur- 
, chasing  Scales  will  do  well  to  examine  tlie  evidences  upon 
Which  we  base  our  claim  for  superiority. 


RAILROAD  DEPOT  AND  WAREHOUSE 
SCALES, 


WITH  TWO  IRON  PILLARS  AND  SLIDING  POISE  BE  AJI, 
These  Scales  are  placed  in  the  floor  of  the  building,  and  are 
constructed  wholly  of  iron,  with  cast-steel  bearings,  and  not 
liable  to  wear  or  lose  their  adjustment  by  use.  The  beam  is 
sustained  upon  iron  pillars,  with  a  neat  architectural  finish, 
iney  are  in  general  used  by  Railroad  corporations:  also  in 
stores  and  warehouses. 

HOPPER  SCALES  FOR  GRAIN. 


Indicating  Bushels,  used  in  Mills.  Storehouses  and  Wharves 
for  receivin.?  and  delivering  wheat  and  other  grain.  This 
modification  is  adapted  to  secure  and  combine  entire  accu¬ 
racy  with  tlip  most  rapid  operation  in  weighing,  and  is  found 
practicallv  an  invaluanle  improvement. 

We  make  foul  sizes  of  this  variety  of  Scales.  Sixty  and 
one  hundred  bushe.  Scales  are  set  dormant  in  the  Wharf  or 
Stor(diouse,  and  are  capable  of  weighing  grain  as  fast  as  it 
handled  by  the  most  approved  steam  machinery 
L^ese  Scales  are  in  general  use  in  Grain  Warehouses  and 
Mills  throughout  the  country. 

The  Thirty  and  Forty  Bushels  Hopper  Scales  are  portable, 
and  may  be  easily  removed  iVom  place  to  place,  and  are  fre- 
quently  used  on  board  Siiips,  Bai;ges,  Canal  Boats,  &c. 

We  furnish,  to  order,  Honper  Scales  capable  of  weighing 
Three,  b  our  and  Five  Hunared  Bushels  at  a  draft. 

DORMANT  SCALES  FOR  STORES  AND 
WAREHOUSES. 


Set  in  the  floor,  and  weighing  from  one-half  pound  to  five 
thousand  pounds.  Used  frequently  in  small  railroad  depots 
ana  stations  ;  also  in  stores,  warehouses,  &c.  A  very  desira¬ 
ble,  siibs^ntial  and  perfect  Scale,  We  have  five  difi'erent 
sizes  of  Dormant  Scales. 

No.  l“Platform  4  feet  square . 5.000  lbs. 

wS-  ‘set .  3,500  Ibs. 

No.  ^Platform  2>i  by  3  feet . 2,500  Ibs. 

No-  7 . 2,000  Ibs. 

No.  9 .  j  5QQ  jjjg 

These  modifications  are  fitted  with  drop  lever’s  by  which 
the  platform  IS  raised,  with  its  load,  to  be  weighed  and  then 
lowered,  so  that  the  outer  edge  rests  upon  and  forms  a  part 
of  tlie  floor.  They  are  founa  exceedingly  convenient,  inas¬ 
much  as  the  space  which  they  occupy  in  the  floor  can  be 
appropriated,  when  the  Scale  is  not  used  for  weighing,  to  the 
ordinary  business  of  the  store. 

ROLLING-MILL  SCALES. 

These  are  very  heavy 
and  durable,  and  are  de¬ 
signed  for  use  in  Foun- 
derles,  Kolllng  Mills, 
Iron  Manufactories,  &c. 

1st  size,  fitted  with 
Drop  Lever,  and  Vibra¬ 
tory  Axle  and  Itack  or 
Iron  Plate,  as  the  pur- 
cliascr  may  clioose.  Ca¬ 
pacity  four  thousand 
pounds. 

2d  size,  similar  to  the 
first.  Capacity  twenty- 
live  liundred  pounds. 

By  a  new  and  import¬ 
ant  arrangement,  these 
Scales  are  fitted  with 
patent  India  Rubber 
.  '  Spring  Platforms,  so  lui 

to  secure  m’cat  durability,  when  used  In  Founderles!  Iron 
Houses,  and  'wherever  very  heavy  weighing  Is  required. 


‘1'®  principal  Iron  Houses  and 
Manufactories  throughout  the  country,  and  we  have  yet  to 
hear  of  the  first  instance  of  dissatisfaction. 

PORTABLE  PLATFORM  SCALES. 

Various  sizes  of  these 
‘'scales  are  made,  with 
and  witliout  wheels,  and 
adapted  to  every  branch 
of  business,  and  are  in 
^6  daily  use  In  thousands  of 
stores  and  manufacto¬ 
ries  in  all  parts  of  the 
world.  Some  of  the  prin¬ 
cipal  sizes  are  as  follows: 

„  „  Capacity. 

J;C.  2 . 3,000  pounds 

No.  7 .  2,000  pounds 

No.  8 . .1,000  pounds 

No.  9 . 1,400  pounds 

No.  10 . 1,200  pounds 

No.  lOX .  000  pounds 

No-  11 .  000  pounds 

No.  11)4 .  400  pounds 

They  are  convenient, 
accurate,  and  not  liable 
to  derangement. 

UN:  OR  FAMILY  SCALE. 

Wehave  recently  con 
structed  an  improved 
Scale.combining  the  ad¬ 
vantages  of  a  Counter 
and  a  Platform  Scale. 
We  denominate  it  the 
“Family  Scale,”  it  be¬ 
ing  peculiarly  adapted 
to  liouseliold  purposes. 
It  weighs  with  tlie  ut¬ 
most  accuracy  from  one 
Iialf-ounce  to  two  hund¬ 
red  and  forty  pounds. 
The  Scale  is  provided 
with  a  scoop  or  pan  for 
weigliiiig  nour,  sugar, 
or  other  house  stores  In  the  kitchen,  and  also  witli  a  platform 
for  heavier  articles,  as  boxes,  casks,  &c.,  as  well  as  for  taking 
tlie  weight  of  individual  members  of  tlie  family  and  tlieir 
friends,  from  tlie  portly  grandfatlier  down  to  tlie  little  “lieir" 
In  tlie  cradle.  It  is  an  indispensable  article  In  every  family 
It  is  equally  convenient  for  Grocers  and  all  Retailers. 

GROCERS’  SCALES. 

Weighing  from  onehalf-ounce 
to  sixty-two  pounds.  Conveni¬ 
ent  and  extremely  accur.ate; 
used  as  a  Platform  Scale,  or  with 
a  scoop  as  Counter  Scale.  Adap¬ 
ted  to  family  uses,  Stores,  Gro¬ 
ceries.  &c.,  and  is  particularly 
sale  for  weighing  valuable  spi¬ 
ces,  drugs,  &c. 

Another  size,  made  on  the 
same  general  plan  as  the  above, 
denominated  the  “  Counter 
Scale,”  is  a  well-known  article. 

.  Capacity  one-half  ounce  to  thir¬ 
ty-six  pounds.  Economical  for  all  Retail  Stores  and  Shops 
giving  just  weight,  but  requiring  no  excess  for  down  weii^ht' 
Also,  the  “Druggists’  Scale, similar  to  the  “Counter’’ 
Indicating  drachms,  ounces  and  pounds.  Capacity  eight 
pounds.  These  scales  are  also  adjusted  to  Troy  wei"-lits 
They  operate  with  great  delicacy,  and  are  rellable'tor  wei-'h- 
Ing  valuable  metals,  costly  drugs,  silks,  &c. 

EVEN  BALANCE. 

No.  1— Weighing  from  half 
an  ounce  to  ten  pounds. 
No.  1 — With  brass  scale  beam 
— weigliin^  from  one- 
fourth  of  an  ounce  to 
ten  pounds. 

No.  2— Weight  IVom  half  an 
ounce  to  six  pounds. 

No.  S— Weighing  from  half  an 
ounce  to  four  pounds. 

— ^ Tliese  four  last  Scales  may 
be  made  to  weigh  two  or  three  times  as  much,  by  using 
common  weights. 

IMPROVED  LETTER  BALANCE. 


Adopted  by  the  United  States  Post-Ofllce  Department. 

used  f^or  other  weighing  than 
letters,  rairbanks*  Scales  are  manufactured  only  by 

E.  &  T.  FAIRlCArVKS  &  CO., 
St.  Jolinsbiiry,  'Vt. 

Principal  Warritouses  ; 

FAIRRATVKS  &  CO., 

No.  853  Broadway,  New  York. 

AND 

No.  846  BALTIMORE-ST.,  Baltimore,  Md. 
FAIRBANKS,  BROWN  <fc  CO., 

No.  113  Milk-st,,  Boston.' 
FAIRBANKS  &  EWINO, 

Masonic  Hall,  Philadelphia. 
FAIRBANKS,  GREENLEAF  &  CO., 

No.  172  Lakc-st.,  Clilcago. 
Pkincipai,  Locai,  Agencies  : 

TRABER  &  AUBERT,  Cincinnati,  Ohio. 
W.  B.  BELKNAP  &  CO.,  Louisville,  Ky. 
LANSING  BONNELL,  Milwaukee,  WIs, 
PRATT  &  FOX,  St  Louis,  Mo. 

E.  WILSON  &  CO.,  Albany,  N.  T. 

J.  M.  WARREN  &  CO.,  Troy,  N.  Y. 
HOMER  FOOT  &  CO.,  ^ 

Springfield,  ^ass. 


I 


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FOK  THE 

[ETarm,  G-ard.eii,  and.  Idonseliold. 


“AGIlICUM'DltE  IS  THE  MOST  HEALTHFUL,  MOST  USEFUL,  ANB  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OF  MAN.^'-WasniMM* 


OI1.AWGE  A.M., 

PUBLISHEK  AND  PROPH.IBTOR. 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IE  1842. 

Publislicd  also  in  Germasi  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


(  SI. 50  PEK  ANNUM,  IN  ADVANCE 
■<  SINGLE  NUMBER,  16  CENTS. 

(  4  Copies  for  s  5 ;  10  for®  13;  30  or  more,  $  1  each 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  7, 


NEW-YORK,  JULY, 


18G5. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  222. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1864,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  the  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  the  Southern  District  of  New-York. 
9^  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  tyeach  article  be  credited  to  Ajnerican  Agriculturist. 


CoEtents  for  July,  1865. 


Agricultural  Bureau— A  Word  to  President  Johnson. 232 

Bees— Apiary  in  July. . .  -  ..204 

Boys  and  Girls’  Department— Making  Garden  Work 
Easy— Interesting  Traditions  of  the  Earliest  Times 
—A  Child’s  Question— Problems  and  Puzzles— 

“  The  Boys  are  coming  Home  again  ” — Friends 
among  the  Birds — A  Calculating  Hen...  3  III  .223-224 
Celery— How  to  Raise.. . 3  Illustrations .  .2\S 


Everlasting  Flower . 205 

Fairbanks’  Scales ...... .205 

Farms,  Southern ........  204 

Flower  Beds,  Form . 205 

Fruit,  Bottling.. . 205 

Fruit,  Preserving...  ....206 

Fruit  Stains .  206 

Fuchsia.  Defective...... 205 

Grape  Vines  in  Pots... .205 

Grapes  and  Wine . 205 

Hungarian  Grass . ...205 

Lightning  Rods. . ...205 

Locust  Suckers . 205 

Lottery  Humbug . 206 

Manu.e,  Liquid . ..204 

Melons,  Training . 205 

Microscope  Humbug. . .  .206 


Missouri  Lands.... . 204 

Muck  and  Lime...... .  ..206 

Mushroom  Culture.. ....206 

Nurserymen,  Reliable..  .204 

Papaw  Bark  . . 205 

Persimmon  Seed . 205 

Photographs  of  Lincoln, 206 

Plants  Named . .  .  206 

Plants  for  Shade . 205 

Plaster,  etc..,  for  Land..  .204 

Poudrelte  Museum . 205 

Sandy  Land,  Improving. 204 
Soap  and  Caterpillars. ..205 

Squashes,  Mixing . 205 

Tree  Protectors... . 205 

Turnip  Seed  per  Acre. .  .205 
Vine  Culturist... . 205 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 


Beans. — Field  beans  may  be  planted  as  late  as 
the  middle  of  this  month,  where  early  potatoes 
have  been  dug,  or  where  Indian  corn  has  failed. 

Buckwheat. — Sow  as  soon  as  the  middle 
of  the  month  in  this  latitude.  Where  there  is 
danger  of  early  frost,  put  in  the  seed  sooner. 
Do  not  sow  more  than  one  bushel  per  acre. 
Twenty-four  quarts  of  good  seed  is  sufficient. 
Buckwheat  may  be  sowed  after  barley,  in  many 
localities,  and  ripen  before  frost.  Sow  the  seed 
very  evenl}’’,  and  roll  the  ground  where  there 
are  any  small  stones  or  clods,  in  order  to  have 
a  smooth  surface  on  which  to  harvest  the  grain. 


Cheese— Coloring  without  Annatto. . . ..221 

Citron— How  Prepared..... . 2  Illustrations .  .^21 

Clay  Lands— Crushing  Clods. . . . . 214 

Clover  Hay — How  to  Cure. . . . .214 

Cold  Grapery  in  July. . . . . . ..........264 

Cooking  without  a  Fire . . . . . 222 

Currants— How  to  Preserve  . . . 222 

Drinks  for  Summer. . ....221 

Exhibition  Tables  at  Agriculturist  OSice. .  ........206 

Farm  Work  in  July . . . . . . . .....201 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  July.... .  ...203 

Flower — Touch-me-not  or  Jewel  Weed.,...../lZas(..217 

Fox — The  Red  {Vulpes  fulvus}.. . Illustrated. .209 

Fruit  Garden  in  July.  . . . . 203 

Garden— Kitchen  in  July.  . . ...203 

Gardening— Useful  Implements  for . Illustrated.  .219 

Grape  Mildew  and  Us  Gave.... ..... .9  Illustrations.  .2Vl 

Green  and  Hot-IIouses  in  July . . . .......203 

Hay  Cured  without  Drying.. . . . . . . 211 

Hay — Drawing  with  a  Rope . Illustrated.  .2X2 

Hay  Fork  Attachment— Halsted’s.... 2  Illustrations.  .2X2 


Hay  Rigging  for  Wagon . Illustrated.  .212 

Hearth  Rug— Home-made  . 222 

Hoed  Crops — How  to  Cultivate.. . . . . . 210 

Hoove  in  Cattle  and  Sheep— Prevention. . 211 

Horse  Power  Defined.... ........................ ....210 

Horses — Use  of  Cheek  Rein..... . . . 211 

Manure — Liquid,  and  Pump  for  Raising....  ....2  /H..213 

Map  of  Fortifications  around  Petersburg . ....208 

Map  of  Vicinity  of  Petersburg  and  Richmond.... _ 207 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes . . . 226 

Mowing  Machine  Knives — How  to  Sharpen . 211 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  July........ ...... ..  ....  201 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  July . . . . . . ..202 

Orchard  Grass — Further  Notes  on... . . . 214 

Pear  Tree  Blight — Causes  and  Cure.. . 220 

Pear  Trees — Double  Working. . . . . . 218 

Plow  Beams— Proper  Lengtii  for. . . . . . ..210 

Poultry  Book — New. . . . . . .  ....215 


Poultry— Hints  on  Showing  ;  Exhibition  at  Museum.  .206 
Poultry — Various  New  BveeAs,.  .2  Illustrations .  .215-2X0 
Recipes — Bread — Steamed  Corn  Bread — Butter  Crack¬ 
ers — Lime  Water  for  Sour  Dough— Floating  Island 
— Poor  Man’s  Jumbles — Tea  Crackers — Omelet — 

Beet  Hash . . . . . . . 223 

Rake  for  Gathering  Scatterings...... ....  Illustrated.. 21Z 

Rake  Teeth— Best  Form  for . Illustrated.  .2X0 

Rhododendrons  at  Parson’s  &  Co.’s . . . . 220 

Rose — Sport  of  . .  .... ........Illustrated.. 220 

Rural  Embellishments . . . . . Illustrated.  .2X1 

Shackles  -  Improved  for  Bulls  and  'Sacks.Illustrated.  .213 

Soap  and  Soap  Making . . . 222 

Sparrows -European  in  America  ..  .  .Illustrated.  .209 
Strawberry — Agriculturist  Plants  for  Premiums..... 232 

Strawberry  Exhibition  at  Agriculturist  OlRce. . 232 

Strawberry  Time  in  New  York . . . . . 222 

Strawberries— Notes  on  . . . . . . 219 

Summer  Fallows— Suggestions  About . .21 1 

Turnips— Raising  on  Heavy  Soils,  etc...... .  209 

Vinegar  Making . .  Illustrated.  .221 

Virginia  Battle  Fields  . . 2  Illustrations . .201-200 

Washington  Monument— Is  it  a  Humbug? . .  . 232 

Western  Agricullurs— Letter  from  Western  Boy . 215 

Weed— The  Common  Groundsel . ....Illustrated.. 220 


INDEX  TO  “  BASKET,”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


Articles,  Publishing . 204 

Asparagus  Beds . 205 

Azalea,  Fine  . 205 

Beef  for  Government. .  .206 

Beef,  Price  of . 206 

Bones,  Breaking . 204 

Bones,  Use  of . 204 

Broccoli . 206 


Broom  Corn,  Dwarf..... 205 

Buttonwoods . 205 

Canada  Thi.stles . 205 

Carrots,  Wild . 206 

Cider  Mills . . . 206 

Clothe.s-W  ringers . 205 

Corn. Fodder .  204 

Diarrhoea  Remedy . 206 


July,  if  the  weather  he  only  what  we  hope 
for,  will  give  the  farmer  but  little  time  for 
reading.  His  labors  begin  early  and  close  late, 
to  be  renewed  with  the  next  dawn.  Men  are 
very  likely  to  overwork,  and  over-ambitious 
boys,  by  too  hard  mow’ing  or  pitching,  or  by 
doing  “  the  work  of  a  man  ”  in  some  other  wajr, 
injure  themselves  for  life.  Many  a  farmer  is 
undersized,  crooked,  or  one-sided,  because  he 
was  ambitious,  when  a  boy,  of  being  told  that 
he  was  worth  as  much  as  a  man  in  the  harvest 
field.  They  only  realize  when  too  late,  that 
they  will  never  be  worth  so  much  again. 

Drouths  may  come,  and  constant  w’orking  of 
the  surface,  mellowing  the  soil,  deeply  as  pos¬ 
sible,  without  injury  to  the  roots  of  the  growing 
crop,  is  the  cure  which  almost  all  may  apply. 
A  fine  mellow  surface  absorbs  water  from  the 
air.  We  can  not  too  often  urge  irrigation. 
The  brooks  and  streams  which  can  be  conducted 
over  meadows  and  lower-ground,  are  of  almost 
inestimable  value,  and  yet  it  is  hard  work  to 
make  farmers  believe  it.  Every  man  may  have 
a  demonstration  of  the  advantages  to  him  in  a 
fortnight’s  time,  if  he  will  only  conduct  a  small 
stream  over  his  grass  land.  The  time  is  not  far 
distant  when  many  farms  will  have  irrigated 
meadows,  yielding  three,  four,  or  five  crops  of 
luxuriant  grass  during  a  single  season. 

Bams. — Clean  out  thoroughly  during  rainy 
weather.  Begin  at  the  top  and  sweep  down 
all  spider  webs,  chaff  and  mouse  litter  from  the 
beams  and  girders.  Turn  over  loose  boards  on 
the  ground  floors,  and  brush  out  wire-w’orms, 
sowbugs,  centipedes,  and  all  other  insects  that 
exist  there  and  in  cracks.  Where  there  are  large 
cracks  in  the  upper  sides  of  beams,  fill  them 
with  coal  tar,  and  then  scatter  clean  sand  over 
them,  so  that  it  will  settle  into  the  tar.  This 
preserves  the  timber  and  also  repels  insects. 

Barley. — -Cut  before  it  is  dead  ripe,  and  cure 
with  care,  as  the  grain  will  be  heavier  and 
brighter,  and  command  a  greater  price  in  mar¬ 
ket  ;  and  the  straw  will  furnish  a  great  amount 
of  fodder.  When  hay  caps  are  not  used  on  the 
barley  shocks,  to  protect  them  from  rain,  the 
long  straight  bunches  of  straw  should  he  placed 
carefully  all  over  the  tops  of  the  shocks  to  turn 
the  water  as  much  as  possible,  and  save  the  grain. 


Butter. — See  that  milk  pails  and  pans  are 
thorou.ghly  scalded ;  that  those  w’ho  milk  have 
clean  hands ;  that  the  milk  is  kept  in  a  cool  and 
airy  place ;  that  the  cream  is  skimmed  off  at 
the  right  time;  that  churning  is  done  often; 
that  clean  salt  is  used,  and  that  the  butter  well 
■n’orked  and  neatly  packed  in  inodorous  vessels. 

Cabbages. — Where  the  ground  is  rich,  nice 
heads  may  be  raised  before  -winter  from  plants 
set  any  time  in  July,  if  they  are  kept  well  hoed. 

Corn. — Keep  the  horse-hoes  and  cultivators 
in  motion  among  the  growing  corn.  Use  a 
short  whiffle-tree  when  the  stalks  are  so  large 
as  to  break  off  easily.  Straighten  up  all  hills 
that  are  not  disposed  to  grow  erect.  Hot 
weather  is  the  best  time  to  work  among  grow¬ 
ing  corn.  Better  pull  than  to  cut  large  weeds ; 
Indian  corn  does  not  need  root  pruning. 

Calves. — See  that  they  have  a  good  supply  nf 
clean  fresh  water,  during  the  hot  weather.  Let 
them  have  access  also  to  a  tub  containing  salt. 
Wean  them  gradually.  It  is  very  injurious  to 
withhold  a  full  supply  of  milk,  abruptly,  and 
confine  them  to  grass  and  w’ater.  It  often 
stunts  them  so  that  they  never  recover  from  it. 

Clover. — Read  the  articles  on  clover  seed,  and 
making  clover  hay,  in  this  and  previous  num¬ 
bers.  Where  clover  has  got  the  start  of  stock 
in  pastures,  it  is  better  to  mow  it  off  and  let  a 
new  crop  grow,  than  to  let  it  go  to  seed,  as  ani¬ 
mals  do  not  relish  it  when  it  is  old  and  tough. 

Braining. — Look  out  for,  and  give  early  or¬ 
ders  for  good  tiles.  Round  or  pipe  tiles  are  best, 
if  -well  made  and  burned.  Never  use  soft  ones. 
A  well  burnt  tile  ought  to  ring  like  a  bell  when 
struck,  and  a  soft  one  -will  not  unfrequently  be 
crushed  by  the  weight  of  earth  settling  over  it. 

Fallows. — Read  the  remarks  on  summer  fal¬ 
lows  on  page  211  of  this  number.  Rather  than 
allow  a  good  soil  to  lie  exposed  to  the  burning 
sun  for  several  months,  sow  three  or  four 
bushels  of  Indian  corn  per  acre.  In  six  weeks 
there  will  be  a  good  burden  of  green  manure  to 
plow  under.  Let  fathers  repeat  it  to  their  sons, 
and  let  them  impress  it  upon  their  posterity, 
that  fallowing  good  land  tends  to  impoverish  it. 

Grain. — Make  timely  calculations  to  com¬ 
mence  harvesring  grain  before  it  is  dead  rinp. 


203 


AMERICAN  AGRICUETURTST, 


[Jolt, 


■\Vlicn  it  is  to  be  tbreslied  soon  after  it  is  cut,  stack 
it  close  to  tlie  barn  doors,  and  run  the  straw  into  the 
bam.  By  this  means  a  large  amount  of  fodder  can 
be  saveii  in  good  order. 

Grass  and  Hay. — Read  the  suggestions  about 
making  hay  on  another  page.  Wlicre  gr.ass  grows 
very  large  in  moist  places,  and  falls  down,  let  it  be 
cut  and  made  into  hay  at  once.  When  a  farmer  has 
a  large  fiuantitv  of  grass  to  mow,  if  he  waits  until 
it  is  all  lit  to  make  into  hay,  unless  he  has  an  abun¬ 
dance  of  help,  some  of  it  will  become  too  ripe. 
This  will  suggest  the  imiiortancc  of  sowing  different 
kinds  of  seed,  in  some  meadows,  so  that  part  will 
be  fit  to  cut  a  few  days  in  advance  of  the  rest. 

Bay  d/o)«s.— Store  the  hay  as  evenly  as  possible, 
so  that  it  will  come  out  easily.  Let  a  boy,  or  weak 
man  manage  tlie  hay  fork,  and  let  a  strong  man 
mow  awaj'  the  hay,  as  that  is  much  the  hardest  work. 

Boehiff.— The  object  of  hoeing  corn  and  root 
crops  is  not  simply  to  keep  down  the  weeds,  and 
to  di'aw  a  little  fresh  earth  about  the  roots,  but  it 
is  primarily  to  stir  and  loosen  the  surface,  that  the 
air  and  rains  may  have  free  access  to  the  soil  in 
which  the  roots  are.  The  frequent  passage  of  a 
light  cultivator  or  horse-hoe  is  of  gicat  benefit  to 
crops  on  land  suffering  IVom  drouth. 

He.dye  and  Fence  Rows. — Ply  the  bush-hook,  and 
keep  down  the  brush;  let  no  weeds  go  to  seed. 

jlfciKi-e.— If^care  be  taken,  an  immense  quantity 
of  weed  growth  may  be  converted  into  good  ma¬ 
nure,  either  by  throwing  it  in  the  hog  pens,  or  by 
making  a  regular  eomi)ost  of  it,  putting  it  in  alter¬ 
nate  layers  with  any  fermenting  manure  ;  or  piling 
it  up  and  pumping  rupiid  manure  over  it.  Cows 
brought  to  the  yard  nights,  and  fed  an  armful 
of  grass  each,  cut  in  the  morning,  and  thus  well 
wilted,  will  drop  manure  enough  to  pay  for  the 
labor  over  and  over  again,  if  it  be  only  well  col¬ 
lected  and  composted. 

Oat.f.— Send  careful  men  through  the  fields,  and 
pull  uj)  dock,  mustard,  or  other  weeds.  Where 
oats  fall  down  before  the  panicles  are  formed,  they 
liad  better  be  cut  at  once,  and  cured  like  hay,  as 
they  make  excellent  fodder.  Grain  does  not  fructify 
well,  after  the  straw  has  fallen  down. 

Pastures. — Do  not  feed  off  pastures  too  closely,  as 
the  grass  will  lie  a  long  time  starting  again,  espe¬ 
cially  in  hot  and  dry  weather.  It  is  bad  policy  to 
keep  so  inneh  stock  that  pastures  are  always  very 
short.  The  leaves  of  grass  perform  the  office  of 
lungs.  Therefore,  let  plants  have  top  enough, 
that  the  breathing  may  not  be  obstructed. 

ibtatoM.— Finish  cultivating  and  hoeing  potatoes 
as  soon  as  practicable,  as  the  roots  should  not  be 
disturbed  after  tubers  have  begun  to  form.  If 
weeds  appear  among  them,  they  should  be  pulled 
rather  than  hoed  up. 

Poultry. — Keep  a  good  dust  bath  for  the  fowls,  and 
a-dd  unleaehed  wood  ashes  to  it  occasionally;  watch 
any  api'carance  of  vermin,  and  clear  them  out  with 
an  apidication  of  kerosene,  which  may  be  rubbed 
under  the  wings,  and  on  the  backs  and  br^gsts  of 
the  birds.  Whitewash  occasionally  and  thorough¬ 
ly  houses,  perches,  nests,  and  all. 

Sheep.— 'Vha.  best  attention  for  sheep  this  month 
is  to  allow  them  an  abundance  of  good  grass  and 
salt.  Dry  ewes  and  yearlings  are  very  liable  to  be 
in  heat  this  month.  See  that  bucks  do  not  run  in 
the  same  flock  with  them,  unless  they  are  shackled 
as  directed  on  page  213.  If  there  are  any  old  ewes 
in  the  flock,  separate  them  at  once,  where  they  may 
be  fed  one  i)ound  of  corn  meal  daily.  If  confined 
in  a  small  enclosure,  they  may  be  fed  mowed  gr.ass 
and  meal.  Managed  in  this  way,  they  will  make 
good  mutton  in  two  months.  Old  ewes  will  fiitten 
much  sooner  in  hot,  than  in  cold  weather. 

Stacks. — Where  h.ay  or  grain  is  put  in  stacks, 
make  a  foundation  at  le.ast  half  a  foot  from  the 
ground.  The  best  way  to  build  a  stack  is,  long  and 
narrow,  and  to  cover  it  with  good  boards,  j)laced  di¬ 
rectly  on  the  to]),  foianing  a  roof  like  the  covering 
of  a  lean-to,  sloping  only  in  one  direction. 

Swme.— As  soon  as  green  peas  are  fit  to  feed,  let 
the  swine  have  a  good  supply.  Keep  shoats  in  a 


thriving  condition.  When  they  arc  confined  in 
close  quarters,  mow  an  armful  of  red  clover  for 
them,  once  or  twice  a  day.  Where  whey  is  fed,  it 
will  make  much  better  swill  to  mingle  meal,  or 
shorts  with  it,  and  allow  fermentation  to  commence 
before  feeding.  Swine  of  all  kinds  like  clean  and 
pure  water,  as  well  as  any  other  anim.als;  and  if 
they  could  alw.ays  have  access  to  it,  they  would 
not  probably  “wallow  in  the  mire.” 

Soilimj. — Millet,  Hungarian  gr.ass,  oats,  sorghum, 
and  corn  may  be  sowed  for  soiling. 

Turnips. — There  is  no  kind  which  gives  better 
satisfaction  on  the  whole  than  the  purple  top  strap- 
leaf.  It  is  the  turnip  for  the  million,  both  for  the 
table,  for  market,  and  for  fetd.  Swedish  turnips 
(Rutabagas),  sowed  during  this  month,  make  ex¬ 
cellent  table  vegetables,  better  than  if  sowed 
earlier,  because  tenderer.  Sow  in  drills,  and  give 
some  cultivation.  Sow  broadcast  only  among  other 
crops  in  open  corners,  or  by-places,  and  where  you 
cannot  use  the  seed-drill  well. 

Tanhark. — When  teams  have  little  to  do,  and 
laborers  are  at  leisure,  haul  spent  tanhark  and 
deposit  it  in  some  dry  place,  for  littering  st.ables 
next  winter.  Dry  tanhark  is  an  excellent  absorbent 
of  liquid  m.anure,  and  it  will  pay  to  haul  it,  as 
well  as  saw  dust,  one  or  two  miles.  In  summer  it 
can  usually  be  obtained  readily.  In  autumn  it  is 
sometimes  scarce. 

Tools. — Keep  all  implements  under  cover,  or  in 
the  shade  during  hot  weather.  The  sun  warps  and 
cracks  the  wood  work  of  scythe  snaths,  rakes,  and 
forks,  and  when  they  are  covered  with  dew,  a  thin 
scale  of  rust  is  soon  formed  on  bright  surfirces  of 
iron  .and  steel,  all  of  which  injure  them  more  th.an 
ordinary  use  ;  .alternate  rain  and  sunshine  will  often 
straighten  bent  pieces  of  wood. 

Tedders. — AVhen  a  farmer  has  much  hay  to  make, 
it  will  pay  to  procure  a  tedder,  and  keep  it  in  con¬ 
stant  operation,  until  the  hay  is  fit  to  rake.  Grass 
will  cure  much  faster  when  it  is  flying  through  the 
air,  th.an  when  it  rem.iins  on  the  ground. 

Ventilators. — Make  one  or  two  near  the  middle  of 
every  stack,  and  mow,  by  tacking  four  boards  about 
one  foot  wide  together,  making  a  trunk  ;  set  these 
on  the  end,  and  draw  them  upwards,  as  the  mow, 
or  stack  is  carried  up.  Some  holes  should  be  bored 
through  the  floor  where  the  ventilator  stands,  to 
let  in  the  air.  A  bag  stuffed  with  hay  .answers  a 
similar  purpose  to  the  trunk  of  boards,  but,  of 
course,  may  not  be  left  in  the  top  of  the  hole,  as 
the  trunk  may,  when  the  mow  is  full. 

Wheat. — In  localities  where  winter  wheat  will  be 
fit  to  harvest  the  last  of  the  month,  see  that  every 
thing  is  in  re.adiness  before  the  grain  is  fully  ripe. 
Wheat  mtikes  more  and  better  flour,  if  it  is  cut  be¬ 
fore  the  heads  droop  ;  before  the  kernels  have  pas¬ 
sed  the  “  dough  state.”  Leave  an  acre,  or  more  of 
the  earliest  and  best  to  ripen  fully  for  seed.  Whe.at 
makes  better  flour  to  put  it  in  shock,  as  soon  as 
cut,  rather  than  to  sun  it  in  the  swath,  .as  is  some¬ 
times  practised.  In  lowcry  weather,  cover  the 
shocks  with  hay-caps. 

IFcrtZ.s. — Write  the  woi-ds,  Mow  Weeds,  in  large 
letters,  where  all  hands  will  be  sure  to  see  them; 
and  let  every  laborer  understand,  that  if  it  is  too 
wet  to  wmrk  at  hay,  grain,  or  hoed  crops,  weeds 
may  be  mowpd,  close  to  the  ground.  In  many 
pastures,  large  bull  thistles  cover  nearly  one  half 
the  ground.  They  should  be  mowed  not  only  to 
allow  the  grass  to  grow,  but  to  prevent  the  seed 
blowing  over  the  country. 

Wood. — For  use'  next  winter,  fire-wood  should 
have  the  benefit  of  the  hot  weather  in  July  and 
August,  if  not  alre.ady  cut  and  piled  under  shelter. 

Work. — Drive  your  work  in  the  cool  jiarts  of  the 
da}’.  From  four  o’clock  to  seven  in  the  morning — 
the  very  time  when  most  farmers  do  the  least 
work — is  the  pleasantest  time  to  labor.  Rest  from 
11  to  1  o’clock.  Then  work  will  go  much  easier, 
than  to  rest  during  the  cool  part  of  the  day. 

Yards. — Grade  and  drain  barn  .and  st.able  y.ards 
for  winter.  Level  up  low  pl.aces  by  hauling  in  hard 
and  hc.avy  earth  in  time  to  allow  it  to  settle  before 
heavy  rains  in  autumn.  Where  the  surface  is  un¬ 


even,  plow  down  the  knolls  and  ridges,  and  make 
the  surface  quite  level  and  smoiUh  in  Ihe  summer. 


W«rli  in  OrcBiai-d  and  NssrMtry. 

Although  the  orchards  in  the  vicinity  of  New- 
York  City  flowered  profusely,  they,  at  the  iiresent  j 
time,  show  but  a  very  moderate  promise  of  fruit,  j 
and  .as  far  as  we  have  observed,  only  a  medium  crop  ' 
is  likely  to  be  realized.  Great  complaint  is  made 
of  ravages  of  the  tent  catei’iiillar,  which  has  in  i 
some  sections  quite  stripped  the  foliage  from  the  j 
trees.  If  this  were  an  evil  beyond  our  powers  of 
control  we  should  feel  more  sympathy  for  the  suf-  : 
ferers  than  we  do,  but  of  all  the  insect  pests,  this 
is  the  most  easily  managed.  The  eggs  arc  placed 
in  large  bunches,  and  conspicuously  u]ion  the  twigs,  i 
as  if  for  the  very  purjiose  of  being  readily  destroy¬ 
ed,  and  as  soon  as  the  caterpillar  begins  work  he 
puts  up  his  sign  in  the  shajie  of  a  lent,  which  can  I 
be  seen  long  before  much  damage  is  done,  and  I 
hundreds  captured  .at  a  swoo]).  It  is  some  work 
to  clear  a  large  tree  of  the  nests,  but  it  is  a  labor  : 
which  will  pay,  and  two  or  three  times  .going  over 
the  orchard  will  save  many  bushels  of  fruit.  It  is  i 

likely  that  those  who  liave  suffei'cd  from  the  cater-  I 

pillar  this  year,  will  heed  our  frequent  and  timely 
warnings  concerning  their  destruction.  Trees 
which  were  set  out  this  spring  should  be  making  a  j 
good  growth,  but  if,  as  is  often  the  ease,  the  buds 
show  a  few  leaves  and  ))ush  no  shoots,  it  is  an  in¬ 
dication  that  they  need  a  severe  cutting  back.  , 

Budding. — The  time  for  perfoi-ming  this  opera-  ' 
tion  will  vary  with  the  season,  location  and  kind. 
Whenever  well  formed  buds  can  be  had,  and  the  . 

bark  “runs,”  or  parts  freely  from  the  wood  of  the  | 

stock,  the  buds  may  be  imt  in.  Work  as  close  to  ' 
the  ground  as  possible,  and  exercise  the  greatest 
care  in  procuring  buds  true  to  name,  and  in  keep-  ! 
iug  the  varieties  so  marked  that  there  will  be  no 
mistakes.  Plums  are  usually  the 'first  to  be  work¬ 
ed.  Slocks  budded  last  year  may  now  be  cut  ofl 
smoothly,  close  to  the  shoot  from  the  bud.  i 

Cherries. — Exercise  eaie  in  picking,  and  allow  no  ■ 
limbs  to  be  broken  or  the  bai-k  to  be  injured. 

Grafts. — Remove  all  suckers  that  stand  near  the 
graft,  and  keep  the  cut  surface  of  the  stock  covered 
with  wax  or  clay.  | 

Insects. — Kill  moths  as  directed  last  month.  Late 
crops  of  the  tent  caterpillar  will  be  found  here  and 
there,  and  must  be  removed.  The  slug  appears  on  ' 
the  pear  tree  this  month,  and  may  be  treated  to  a  ! 
dusting  of  lime  shaken  from  a  b.ag  tied  to  a  pole. 

Layering. — Shoots  of  this  year’s  growih  may  be  i 
Layered  as  soon  as  the  wood  is  somewhat  hardened. 

The  process  is  described  on  page  187,  last  mouth. 

Manure  and  Mulch. — Newly  planted  trees  espe-  | 
daily,  will  need  mulching,  and  bearing  trees  will  be  ' 
benelitted  by  it,  especially  if  coarse  manure  is 
used.  The  crop  in  established  orchards  will  be  1 
much  finer  if  the  grass  is  removed  from  over  their  I 
roots  and  a  coating  of  long  manure  spread  there. 

Thinning. — Should  be  attended  to,  especially  on  1 
young  trees.  The  overbearing  of  a  tree  when  | 
young,  seriously  checks  its  future  growth.  Where  I 
fine  specimens  are  desired,  thin  very  freely.  I 

Pruning. — Where  large  limbs  must  be  removed,  I 
it  is  best  done  this  month.  In  cutting  off  a  limb,  I 
do  it  with  a  clear  notion  of  the  object  to  be  gained.  | 
If  the  head  of  a  tree  is  too  crowded,  if  it  has  been  I 
allowed  to  grow  one-sided  from  neglect,  if  some  : 
limbs  arc  too  near  the  ground,  or  if  there  is  chafing 
by  the  crossing  of  two  branches,  it  may  be  benefi¬ 
cial  to  cut.  Use  a  rather  wide  set  saw  a’nd  be 
careful  not  to  strip  the  bark.  Cover  the  wound 
with  melted  grafting  w’ax.  Remove  all  suckers 
and  useless  “  water  shoots.” 

Seeds  and  Seedlbigs. — Collect  seeds  as  fast  as  they 
ripen.  Shade  seedlings  as  directed  last  mouth. 
Keep  the  ground  free  of  weeds. 

Transplanting. — By  using  proper  care  to  prevent  ■ 
the  roots  from  drying,  evergreens  may  be  removed 
to  a  moder.ate  distance,  but  they  must  not  be  kept 
out  of  the  ground  many  hours.  We  recently  saw 
some  locusts  transplanted  last  year  late  in  June, 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


903 


which  were  in  fine  condition.  The  trees  were  cut 
back  very  severely,  almost  to  straight  poles. 

Weeds.— The  plow,  hoe  and  cultivator  must  be 
kept  constantly  bright  by  use,  if  one  would  keep 
the  better  of  weeds.  These  are  quite  .as  injurious 
to  young  trees  .as  to  other  plants. 

Kitclicn  Oarden.— Those’  w^ho  have 
small  gardens  do  not  generally  make  the  most  of 
them,  for  the  reason  that  they  do  not  practise  a 
system  of  rotation.  The  ground  occupied  by  early 
potatoes  may  be  used  the  same  season  for  eabba- 
ges,  beans,  lettuce,  peas,  or  celery;  peas  may  be 
followed  by  any  of  the  above  except  be.ans,  or  late 
spinach,  or  turnips  m.ay  be  sown.  The  list  of 
things  which  may  be  sown  late,  given  last  month 
on  page  187,  will  be  useful  .as  a  reminder,  and  in 
sowing  in  rotation  do  not  let  closely-related  plants 
follow  one  another ;  thus  c.abbages  should  not  fol¬ 
low  turnips,  nor  beans  be  sown  directly  after  a 
crop  of  peas  has  been  taken  from  the  same  ground. 

Asparagus. — Keep  the  weeds  from  the  beds  and 
give  a  dressing  of  manure.  Cut  off  all  the  tops 
which  have  the  iarvs  of  the  beetle,  and  burn  them. 

ifeans.— Plant  for  late  crop  and  forward  the  Li¬ 
mas  by  liquid  manure  and  good  culture.  Help 
them  if  they  are  not  disposed  to  wind  of  them¬ 
selves.  In  saving  seed,  select  the  most  prolific 
plants  and  allow  none  to  be  picked  from  them. 

Beets  may  still  be  sown  for  a  late  crop.  Thin 
those  up  as  soon  as  large  enough.  The  young 
plants  are  exeellent  greens. 

Cabbages  and  CauHflowers.—The  early  sorts  will 
soon  be  out  of  the  way,  and  the  land  may  be  pre¬ 
pared  for  celery  or  other  succession  crop.  Trans¬ 
plant  the  late  crop,  observing  the  hints  given  last 
month  on  page  186.  Give  liquid  manure  when 
they  are  well  established,  and  hoe  often,  especially 
in  dry  weather.  The  caterpillar  is  often  very  de¬ 
structive.  When  the  brood  are  first  hatehed  they 
remain  near  together,  and  may  be  removed  by 
breaking  off  a  single  leaf,  but  when  larger  they  scat- 
ter  in  search  of  food  and  must  be  killed  in  detail. 

Ceknj.—The  admirable  article  of  Mr.  Henderson, 
on  page  218,  gives  suflficient  directions  for  growing. 

CajTofs.— Sow  some  for  late,  if  young  carrots  be 
desired.  Thin  others  and  keep  the  ground  hoed 
until  the  tops  meet. 

Corn. — Plant  for  late  use  and  for  drying. 

Cucumbers. — Hoe  as  long  as  the  vines  will  allow ; 
water  if  they  suffer  from  drouth.  Those  for  pickles 
may  still  be  sown.  Select  the  finest  for  seed. 

Egg  Plants.— 'Roq  and  earth  up,  and  feed  them 
with  liquid  manure,  and  mulch  them. 

Endive. — Sow  for  late  crop  the  same  as  lettuce. 

Herbs.— Cut  as  they  are  ready  to  flower,  dry  in  the 
shade  and  put  up  in  p-iper  bags  or  tight  boxes. 

Hoe  and  Bake. — ^The  free  use  of  these  is  wonder¬ 
fully  persuading  to  all  vegetables.  Use  them  after 
a  rain  to  break  the  crust  that  forms,  and  use  them 
before  a  rain,  and  at  all  times  when  the  soil  is  not 
too  wet.  A  thorough  stirring  of  the  soil  in  a  dry 
time  is  better  than  watering. 

Lettuce. — Save  seeds  from  the  finest  heads.  Sow 
the  Silesian  in  partial  shade. 

Manure. — Give  the  roots  plenty  of  food  in  the 
liquid  form.  House  slops  arc  good.  Liquid  ma¬ 
nure  from  hen  droppings — a  peek  to  a  barrel  of 
water — is  better.  Cow  manure  tea  is  good  also. 

Melons. — Treat  the  same  as  cucumbers.  Remove 
all  the  fruit  that  will  not  ripen  before  frost. 

Onions. — ^Thin  if  they  are  crowded.  Pull  those 
that  are  ripening,and  dry  thoroughly  before  storing. 

Peas. — Save  seed.  Plant  some  of  the  early  varie¬ 
ties  for  late.  Clear  off  the  ground  occupied  by  the 
early  ones  and  prepare  it  for  some  other  crop. 

Bhubarb. — Keep  the  flower  stalks  down  and  give 
the  plants  rest  and  manure. 

Seeds. — ^There  is  no  difficulty  in  saving  good  seed 
if  one  will  only  take  sufficient  care.  It  is  often  the 
case  that  all  the  first  fruit  of  a  plant  is  taken  for 
use  and  seed  saved  from  that  which  is  produced 


later,  and  it  is  no  wonder  that  sorts  tre.ated  in  this 
way  “  run  out.”  To  get  seed  that  will  continue  to 
produce  not  only  the  same,  but  improved  results, 
set  apart  a  sufficient  number  of  plants  of  cucum¬ 
bers,  tomatoes,  peas,  beans,  corn,  etc.,  for  seed 
only,  and  allow  nothing  to  be  t-aken  from  them  for 
use.  When  the  frnit  is  set,  take  off  all  but  a  mod¬ 
erate  crop  of  select  specimens,  and  allow  those  to 
ripen  for  seed.  When  one  plant  of  a  variety  is 
seen  to  be  a  few  d.ays  earlier  than  the  rest,  mark  it 
for  seed.  By  a  careful  selection  of  seed,  the  quality 
of  our  garden  products  can  be  greatly  improved. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — Keep  the  ground  clean  and  move 
the  vines  to  prevent  them  from  striking  root. 

Squashes. — The  squash  bugs  should  be  looked  for 
and  caught  before  they  lay  their  eggs,  and  any 
eggs  that  are  found  on  the  under  side  of  the  leaves 
crushed.  The  only  remedy  yet  known  for  the  squash 
borer  is  to  dig  him  out.  If  the  vine  wilts,  look  for 
the  hole  made  by  the  borer.  If  this  is  near  the 
root  he  m.ay  sometimes  be  dug  out  and  the  vine 
saved,  but  usu.ally  the  discovery  is  made  too  late. 
Hoe  the  vines  and  allow  them  to  strike  root. 

Tomatoes. — Last  month  we  gave  an  account  of  a 
method  of  training.  Other  modes  may  be  adopted 
or  the  vines  be  allowed  to  fall  over  upon  brush 
placed  for  the  purpose.  Pinch  in  the  branches  so 
that  one  leaf  will  remain  above  the  bunch  of 
blossoms.  If  the  vines  are  eaten,  search  for  and 
kill  the  large  green  worm  that  does  the  mischief. 

Turnips. — Sow  the  Swedes  or  Rutabagas,  and 
White  French,  and  other  late  kinds. 

Weeds. — A  good  crop  of  these  may  be  raised  with 
but  iittle  trouble,  but  if  other  things  are  preferred, 
use  some  of  the  weeding  implements  described 
and  figured  in  this  and  previous  numbers. 


Fruit  darden.  —  Every  one  growing 
frnit  should  aim  to  have  the  best  of  its  kind,  and 
now  that  the  different  ones  are  ripening  in  succes¬ 
sion,  he  should  compare  his  own  varieties  with 
those  grown  by  others,  to  see  what  room  there  is 
for  improvement.  The  local  horticultural  exhibi¬ 
tions  and  farmers’  clubs,  are  very  instructive  to 
this  end ;  and  where  these  are  not  held,  one  should 
visit  his  neighbors  to  compare  notes. 

Blackberries. — Keep  the  ground  free  of  weeds  by 
hoeing,  or  a  heavy  mulch,  which  is  better,  as  it  is 
difficult  to  work  among  the  bushes.  Tie  up  the 
brjinehes  that  bend  over  with  their  load  of  fruit. 

Currants. — If  the  worm  makes  its  appe.aranee, 
give  a  dusting  of  white  hellebore,  as  advised  last 
month.  The  borer,  which  e.ats  the  pith,  is  often 
very  troublesome.  It  comes  from  an  egg  laid  by  a 
small  moth  near  a  bud.  Some  plan  for  trapping 
the  moths  is  greatly  needed.  Much  pruning  may 
be  saved  by  removing  needless  shoots  when  they 
first  push.  Shading  a  portion  of  the  bushes  will 
retard  the  ripening  and  prolong  the  season. 

Dwarf  Pkuit  Trees. — Thin  the  fruit  freely  if  at  all 
disposed  to  overbear.  If  the  trees  are  to  be  kept 
dwarf,  summer  pinch  them  as  directed  in  article  on 
pyramids,  published  in  January  last.  Give  manure 
and  mulch.  Treat  the  red  spiders  to  frequent 
syringings  of  soap  suds,  and  if  the  slug  appears 
dust  with  air-slaked  lime. 

Grape  Vines. — Keep  all  vines,  young  or  old,  tied 
to  the  trellis  or  stakes.  Pinch  the  laterals  to  one 
leaf  and  when  a  new  growth  starts  from  the  pinch¬ 
ed  lateral,  pinch  that  again  to  one  leaf,  and  keep 
doing  this.  Stop  the  growth  of  fruiting  canes  by 
pinching  them  at  3  or  4  leaves  beyond  the  upper¬ 
most  bunch  of  fruit.  Do  not  allow  any  vines, 
young  ones,  especially,  to  overbear.  See  article  on 
mildew  on  page  217,  and  use  sulphur  as  there  di¬ 
rected.  Thrips  are  very  troublesome  in  some  pla¬ 
ces  ;  it  is  said  that  sulphur  will  keep  them  away. 

Baspberries. — As  soon  as  the  fruit  is  off,  cut 
away  the  old  canes  and  remove  all  of  the  new  ones 
not  needed  for  next  years’  bearing. 

Strawberries. — After  the  picking  is  over,  fork  a 
good  compost  in  around  them.  Keep  the  runners 
pinched  off  unless  new  plants  are  needed. 


Flower  Gardesi  ;in<l  L>awii. — Now 

that  the  novelty  is  over,  the  amateur  should  not 
abate  his  zeal,  and  allow  the  borders  to  fall  info 
partial  neglect.  There  is  abundance  of  work  for 
those  who  would  keep  their  grounds  in  complete 
order,  in  suppressing  weeds,  removing  stalks  from 
plants  out  of  flower,  training  r.ampant  growers, 
pegging  down  bedding  plants,  transplanting  an¬ 
nuals  for  l.ate  bloom,  etc.  The  surface  of  the  soil 
should  be  kept  loose,  and  when  it  bakes  after  a 
rain,  it  needs  to  be  raked  or  hoed  over. 

Bulbs. — Those  which  have  finished  their  growth, 
which  may  be  known  by  the  wilting  of  the  leaves, 
may  be  taken  up,  and  put  in  papers,  as  directed 
last  mouth,  or  in  boxes  or  flower  pots  of  dry  sand. 

CnrnnfiojM.— Propagate  as  directed  last  month, 
and  keep  those  in  flower  neatly  tied  up. 

Dahlias. — Set  out  a  stake,  and  then  set  out  the 
root.  Train  to  a  single  stem,  or  allow  three  of  the 
lower  branches  to  push,  which  will  form  a  large, 
bushy  plant;  these  side  branches  will  also  need 
stakes.  Keep  them  growing  and  safely  tied  up 

Eve)-greens.—?T\me  single  trees  or  hedges,  if  not 
already  done,  and  remove  the  grass  from  immedi¬ 
ately  over  their  roots. 

Geraniums. — If  the  plants  are  long-legged  and 
straggling,  cut  them  back  severely,  so  as  to  form 
compact  and  well  shaped  specimens;  they  will  soon 
push  out  more  shoots  and  flower  finely. 

Gladiolus. — Tie  the  flower  stalks  to  stakes. 

Grass. — Mow  as  often  as  long  enough,  and  in  hot 
we.ather,  if  the  grass  is  iight,  do  not  rake  it  off,  but 
le.ave  it  as  a  mulch.  Pull  up  coarse  weeds,  and 
keep  all  the  margins  closely  trimmed. 

Potted  Plants. — See  that  all  have  sufficient  shade, 
and  do  not  suffer  from  dryness.  If  the  pots  are  to 
be  plunged,  put  a  little  coal  ashes  at  the  bottom  of 
the  hole,  to  keep  the  worms  out  of  the  pots. 

Propagation. — The  stock  of  shrubs  may  be  in¬ 
creased  by  layering,  and  many  herbaceous  plants, 
such  as  phloxes,  by  cuttings,  taken  before  flowering. 

Pnining  may  be  done  to  ornament.al  trees,  .as  di¬ 
rected  for  fruit  trees  under  Orchard  and  Nursery. 

Bhododendrons. — Mulch,  and  carefully  remove  the 
forming  pods,  unless  seeds  are  desired. 

Boses. — Cut  back  the  perpetuals  freely,  to  secure 
a  late  bloom.  Layer  the  new  growth  of  those,  it  is 
wished  to  propagate.  Rose  bugs  must  be  caught 
and  killed,  and  the  slug  cured  by  the  use  of  whale- 
oil  soap.  Keep  the  new  growth  of  the  climbing 
sorts  well  tied  up  to  the  trellis. 

Seeds. — Collect  from  the  best  specimens  only, 
which  should  have  been  marked  when  in  flower, 
just  before  the  pods  burst. 

Verbenas. — Keep  well  pegged  down.  A  corre¬ 
spondent  of  the  Gardener’s  Monthly  says :  Take 
a  bit  of  bast  m.atting,  or  similar  material,  3  or  4 
inches  long,  pass  it  around  the  stem,  until  both 
ends  meet,  and  then  with  a  stick  press  the  two  ends 
into  the  soil,  and  it  will  hold  the  plant  in  place. 

Watering. — This  should  only  be  done  when  the 
plants  show  signs  of  suffering.  Remove  the  surface 
earth  around  the  plant,  give  water  copiously,  .and 
when  it  has  soaked  aw.ay,  replace  the  earth. 


Grccii  and  Mot-Mouses.— The  tropi¬ 
cal  plants  which  remain  in  the  house,  after  the 
others  are  removed,  should  be  secured  from  burn¬ 
ing  by  the  mid-summer  sun,  by  whitewashing  the 
glass,  or  the  use  of  a  muslin  screen.  The  atmos¬ 
phere  must  be  kept  moist  by  sprinkling,  and  the 
earth  in  the  pots  properly  watered.  All  rubbish  is 
to  be  removed,  and  everything  kept  neat. 

Budding. — Shrnbs  which  are  propagated  in  this 
way,  are  worked  whenever  the  bark  will  lift,  and 
well  formed  buds  are  to  be  had. 

Insects. — Continue  to  destroy  by  the  methods 
heretofore  noticed  in  the  Calendar. 

Potting. — Collect  sods,  and  stack  up  to  decom¬ 
pose  for  potting  compost.  Potrooted  cuttings  and 
seedlings.  If  large  pl.ants  are  in  a  sickly  condition, 
wash  the  earth  from  the  roots,  remove  diseased 
roots,  head  back  the  top,  and  re-pot  in  fresh  carthi 


Q04 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Fropat/alion. — Genuiiuins  and  other  plants,  need¬ 
ed  for  bloomin"  tiext  winter,  may  now  be  started 
from  cuttings.  Inarch  Azalc.as,  Camellias,  and  other 
hard-wooded  plants,  rvhenever  the  wood  gets  firm. 

Pruning. — Use  the  knife,  or  with  soft-wooded 
tilings,  pinching,  to  bring  into  good  shape. 

Cold  ^BTispery.— The  vines  must  not  be 
allowed  to  suffer  from  dryness,  and  if  there  is  any 
daimer  of  thi.s,  water  the  borders  with  weak  liquid 
manure.  As  the  growth  pushes  from  the  laterals, 
it  must  be  pinched  as  before  directed.  Thin  the 
berries  with  a  pair  of  scissors,  those  made  for  the 
purpose  are  safest,  removing  one  half,  or  more,  ac¬ 
cording  to  the  variety ;  beginners  often  make  the 
mistake  of  leaving  the  bunches  too  crowded;  a 
greater  weight  of  liner  fruit  will  result  from  proper 
thinning.  Mildew  shows  itself  in  spots  on  the 
leaves,  and  when  it  appears,  the  vine  of  the  house 
must  be  kept  as  dry  as  possible,  and  the  syringing 
discontinued.  Sprinkle  sulphur  freely  over  the 
floor  of  the  house,  and  keep  dry  until  the  difliculty 
disappears.  If  not  troubled  by  mildew,  continue 
to  sjirinkle  every  evening.  The  temperature 
should  be  00'^  to  O.j''  at  midday,  which  during 
the  night  may  decrease  to  about  85°. 


T8a«  for  ,l338y. — Prepared  by  M. 

Quininj,  by  requc.xt.—kW  who  have  had  experience 
in  removing  boxes  fi-om  the  hives,  when  there  was 
not  a  full  supiJly  of  honey  fi'om  the  flowers,  have 
had  some  difficulty  to  get  I’id  of  the  bees,  without 
losing  a  considerable  portion  of  the  honey.  A 
gentleman  in  Cherry  Valley,  N.  Y.,  has  given  me 
his  method  of  getting  the  bees  out,  which,  although 
I  have  not  tested  it,  I  think  must  be  preferred  by 
some,  to  any  method  heretofore  given.  Firstly,  he 
designates  each  hive  with  a  number,  and  when  the 
boxes  are  put  on,  each  one  receives  the  same 
number  as  the  hive.  When  a  bo.x  is  full,  an  empty 
one,  to  replace  it,  is  numbered  in  the  same  way. 
jfwo  slides  of  zinc,  or  hcav}’  tin  are  used  to  slip 
between  the  box  and  hive,  one  to  keep  the  bees 
from  coming  up  out  of  the  hive,  the  other  to  kepp 
the  bees  in  the  box,  and  is  lifted  off  with  it,  and 
the  box  inverted.  The  empty  box  is  put  on  the 
full  one,  and  the  slide  removed,  giving  the  bees  free 
passage  to  the  u])[ier  box.  Any  number  of  boxes 
may  be  set  on  one  board,  and  by  striking  the 
board  gently  with  a  stick,  or  hammer,  the  bees  im¬ 
mediately  leave  the  full  for  the  empty  boxes,  when 
the  slide  is  inserted  and  each  box  containing  the 
bees  returned  to  the  hive  to  which  it  belongs, 
which  is  known  by  the  number.  If  a  large  number 
of  boxes  are  to  be  taken  off  at  one  time,  it  will  be 
necessary,  without  a  corresponding  number  of 
slides,  to  use  pieces  of  glass,  or  wood  to  lay  over 
the  holes  in  the  tops  of  the  hives,  while  other  boxes 
are  being  taken  off.  The  advantages  of  this  method 
are,  that  no  bees  can  fly  to  annoy  any  one  ;  and  all 
young  bees  that  have  never  before  left  the  hive, 
and  are  usually  lost,  are  returned  ;  the  bees  are  al¬ 
ready  in  the  box,  and  go  to  work  sooner  ;  the  honey 
in  the  box  is  clean,  etc.  Boxes  should  never  re¬ 
main  on  the  hive  after  they  are  full.  A  few  cells 
next  tlie  glass  will  not  be  sealed  in  a  long  time,  and 
to  wait  for  every  one  to  be  finished,  involves  the 
soiling  of  the  combs.  When  a  hive  has  more  boxes 
part  full,  than  the  bees  are  likely  to  finish,  a  part 
or  all  may  be  removed  to  some  other  strong  stock 
to  finish.  No  harm  will  be  done,  if  changed  two 
or  three  times.  One  box  finished,  is  worth  two  or 
three  half  full. 

Should  a  hive  refuse  to  swarm,  and  a  great  many 
bees  cluster  outside  for  want  of  room,  a  second  set 
of  boxes  may  be  put  on  by  making  holes  through 
the  top  of  the  lower  ones.  Those  part  full  should 
be  raised,  and  empty  ones  put  under.  It  is  not 
good  economy  with  the  movable  comb  hive,  to 
allow  colonies  to  become  so  crowded  with  bees,  as 
to  remain  outside  in  large  numbers,  for  a  long  time. 
When  all  cannot  find  emiiloyment  in  the  hive  and 
boxes,  i*  is  well  to  remdve  some  of  the  full  combs — 
every  .ilt-:;ruale  one,  when  more  than  one  is  taken — 
and  supply  empty  frames  to  be  filled.  The  full 
combs  containing  brood,  may  be  given  to  weak,  or 


late  swarms  (after  jarring  off  bees),  thus  making 
those  vigorous  and  valuable,  that  might  otherwise 
be  almost  worthless.  In  the  swarming  season, 
such  colonies  may  be  divided. 

See  if  any  stocks  arc  exhausted  by  swarming,  till 
too  few  bees  are  left  to  protect  the  combs  from 
worms.  If  the  worms  cannot  be  kept  out,  break 
up  the  hive,  save  the  honey  and  wax,  and  thus 
avoid  breeding  a  swarm  of  moths,  to  infest  the 
other  hives.  When  queens  are  not  raised  artificial¬ 
ly,  and  kept  to  supply  queenless  stocks,  it  is  good 
economy  to  hive  a  small  swarm  or  two,  to  keep  the 
queens  to  supply  destitute  ones.  Flag,  as  a  mate¬ 
rial  for  hive,  will  answer  equally  as  well  as 
straw  for  wintering,  but  does  not  look  quite  as 
well.  A  better  quality  of  straw  can  be  secured  in 
the  harvest  field.  Select  it  by  handfuls,  make  it 
even,  shake  out  all  short  ones,  cut  off  the  heads, 
and  put  away  to  be  made  into  hives,  some  rainy 
day  before  December. 

It  is  unnecessary  to  look  for  a  second  swarm, 
when  the  first  issued  sixteen  or  eighteen  days  be¬ 
fore.  Not  one  in  500  will  vary  from  this  rule.  Per¬ 
haps  not  one  in  a  hundred  will  issue  after  14  days — 
and  usually  not  after  10  or  V,l. 

In  the  last  sentence  of  the  Apiary  for  June,  for 
ether  edge,  read  wider  edge. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  ltem.i.  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
tyjte  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


A.j"t5<;Ses. — We  are  very 
oflea  requested  to  republish  some  particular  article,  and 
have  now  a  letter  before  us  asking  for  the  reproduction 
of  an  article  which  appeared  only  a  little  over  a  year 
ago.  It  would  be  very  easy  to  make  up  a  paper  by  re¬ 
printing  old  articles,  but  we  are  obliged  to  keep  moving 
on.  To  meet  such  requests  as  these  we  liave  always  on 
hand  plates  to  print  the  numbers  for  several  years 
back,  and  can  furnish  any  single  number  or  volume. 

Aj’e  fSaey  IScIinlde. — A  correspondent  in 
Princeton,  N.J.,  wishes  to  purchase  a  large  number  of 
strawberry  plants,  and  desires  to  know  if  he  “can  im¬ 
plicitly  rely  apon  those  sent  out  by - or - ,  as  oe- 

ing  true  to  name.”  We  refer  to  this  as  a  sample  of 
many  letters  we  do  not  notice.  We  cannot  undertake 
to  specify  in  these  cases.  Their  advertisements  being 
founil  in  the  Agruulturist  is  proof  of  their  general  re¬ 
spectability  as  dealers,  and  we  cannot  go  beyond  this. 
It  would  be  impossible  for  us  to  say  that  any  nurseryman 
can  be  “implicitly  relied  on  ”  to  send  plants  true  to 
nanie,  as  those  with  the  best  possible  intentions  are  liable 
to  be  deceived  by  others,  or  to  be  mistaken  as  to  the 
identity  of  a  fruit.  It  very  often  haiipens  that,  to  meet 
tlie  demand,  a  nurseryman  propagates  a  large  stock  of  a 
variety  before  he  fruits  it.  and  then  finds  to  his  mortifica¬ 
tion  that  he  has  been  selling  the  wrong  thing.  Mistakes 
like  this  are  almost  impossible  to  avoid. 

l>clsiwafe,  Msus*y!iiisd,  asi«l  Vii-giajisi 
Farms.— To  many  inquirers  we  must  answer  that 
there  is  good  land  for  sale  in  the  States  above  niinied,  as 
well  as  everywhere  else  almost.  A  man  can  afford  to 
buy  poor  land  which  is  clo.'e  by  railway  facilities,  and 
thus  within  such  easy  reach  of  the  great  markets,  that 
he  can  dispose  of  early  vegetables  and  fruit  tit  the  best 
prices.  If  further  off  he  must  have  better  land,  or  some 
other  compensation.  Northern  ftirmers  are  going  in 
considerable  numbers  into  Maryland,  Delaware,  and 
Virginia,  and  if  they  will  only  take  with  tliem  the  indus¬ 
try,  frugality,  and  intelligence  which  would  make  them 
successful  in  New-Yorkand  New  England,  they  will  suc¬ 
ceed  well  in  their  new  homes.  Never  buy  without  seeing 
the  land  and  knowing  exactly  what  you  will  surely  know 
within  a  vveek  after  your  purchase  is  made.  Ttike  no¬ 
body’s  word  for  any  thing  you  can  see  and  judge  of. 


Missouri  l.,n,Esds. — By  reference  to  our  ad¬ 
vertising  columns  in  this  issue,  will  be  found  the  adver¬ 
tisement  of  tlie  Missouni  Land  Company,  of  S-t.  Louis, 
who  are  prepared  to  furnish  all  necessary  information 
regarding  land  in  Missouri,  and  at  all  times  facilitate  the 
immigrant,  or  the  agents  for  colonies,  in  securing  the  best 
and  cheapest  lands  in  the  State.  Heretofore  tlie  settler 
designing  to  purchase  has  been  compelled  to  ramble  over 
the  State,  trusting  to  chance  or  local  land  agents  for  such 


( JCLY, 

information  as  they  may  gather.  This  comuany  is  or-  i 
ganized  on  a  very  broad  basis,  having  its  local  a-gents  in  ' 
every  county,  enabling  them  to  secure  the  most  complete 
information,  and  mtike  their  oflice  the  Ileal  Estate  Kx 
change  of  the  State.  The  State  presents  manyattrac 
tions  to  the  enterprising  immigrant.  Mountains  of  iron, 
mines  of  lead,  copper,  elc.  millions  of  acres  of  fei  tile  soil,  i 
its  central  position,  and  temperate  climate  destine  it  to  I 
be  in  the  future  one  of  the  mo-t  important  States.  ' 
It  has  thrown  off  tiie  incubus  of  slaverv  that  so  long  has 
impeded  its  progres,  and  now  as  a.  free  Stale  offers  hemes  | 
to  all  enterprising  men.  Missouri  stands  on  tlie  higl.-vay 
of  the  nation,  betw-een  the  Atlantic  and  Pacific.  Not'-  | 
withstanding  the  liavoc  of  war,  its  railroads  are  fast  ap-  t 
proaching  completion.  The  disloyal  inhabitants  im-  i 
poverished  by  tile  war,  are  selling  their  improved  farms  i 
very  Iowa  The  Company  furnishes  inforiiialion  and  an-  ; 
sw  ers  communications  free  of  charge.  | 

C«5-ji  fov  E.  IV.  Allen.  !■ 

When  the  corn  has  its  full  size,  cut  it  at  the  ground  ;  let  p 
it  wilt  in  the  sun  a  day,  turn  and  sun  it  another  day;  !■ 
bind  with  straw  in  small  bundles,  say  8  inches  in  dianie-  1| 
ter ;  set  the  bundles  up  bracing  to  sustain  one  another  in  I 
long  rows  2  and  2,  or  set  them  against  rails  or  a  fence,  or  ij 
in  very  open  stooks.  Thus  they  will  gradually  dry  suffi- 
ciently  in  about  two  weeks  to  put  up  in  large  round  i 
stooks,  capped  to  shed  rain.  Before  cold  weather  stack  1*1 
near  the  stock  yard  or  put  in  the  Darn.  .  r 

Blow  to  ISs-issf;-  mjE  SsiEnly 

James  Clayton,  Mason  Co..  III.  writes;  “  VVe  liave  a  | 
good  deal  of  land  in  this  county  on  w  hich  noihing  but  i. 
lye  can  be  grown,  it  being  nearly  clear  sanil.  What  is  ; 
the  best  way  to  improve  this  sandy  soil?”  .Such  land  p 
may  probably  be  luought  up  in  two  seasons  so  that  a  i' 
tolerable  crop  of  clover  may  be  raised,  and  after  that 
corn,  wheat  and  roots  will  fidlow  in  a  few  years.  Buidt-  i 
wheat  sown  now  on  land  which  has  a  small  dressing  of  | 
some  ammoidacal  manure,  ino  to  150  pounds  of  guano,  ; 
or  200  or  300  pounds  of  bone  dust  per  acre,  will  give  a  j 
good  growth  probably.  Plow  this  under  soon  after  the  ! 
first  blossoms  ajipear,  and  then  sow  rye.  In  spring,  say  1 
by  the  middle  of  .May  or  first  of  June,  w  hen  the  rye  begins  1 1 
to  head,  turn  it  under  and  sow  corn  or  sorghum  broad 
cast,  (or  in  drills  if  the  land  is  weedy,  which  it  probably  i 
is  not)  and  plow  this  under  in  August,  ami  if  desired, 
buckwheat  or  turnips  may  be  sowed,  (the  latter  quite  ' 
thicklyland  this  crop  plowed  under ;  the  buckw  heat  before  i 
frost,  or  tlie  turnips  before  hard  freezing.  After  this  vou 
will  be  able  in  all  probability  to  get  a  good  crop  of  red  | 
clover,  which  means  wheal  or  any  thing  else,  (after  it; 
provided  the  same  system  is  kept  up.  and  a  well  manured  il 
crop  is  introduced  once  in  about  four  years.  I 

BJop.s  l*Sn.s#er,  Ottiano,  etc.,  ( 

tlie  I^and?— “R.  B,”  Portage  Co.,  O.— No  t  not  if  |l 
properly  used.  If  these  things  increase  your  crops,  you  j. 
must  give  back  to  the  soil  in  proportion  to  the  amount 
it  yields,  the  ingredients  which  constitute  the  earthy 
part  of  plants.  If  this  tie  neglected  then  in  a  few  years  j 
with  your  big  croiis  you  will  accomidish  the  same  j 
amount  of  exhaustion  which  it  might  have  taken  many  n 
years  to  have  done  witliout  any  high-pressure  fertilizers.  ; 


I5«w  to  Use  BSoiies. — “Leslie.”  After  I 

breaking  them  up.  compost  with  hor.«e  manure.  Fork  |. 
over  the  heap  bye-and-bye,  and  throw  out  the  hard  one.s,  j  ' 
mash  the  others  ;  make  up  another  heap  and  use  the  hard  il 
bones  again  with  some  fresli  ones.  .Another  way  is  to  ' 
break  them  as  small  as  you  can  and  throw  tliem  all  into  jj 
a  heap,  sprinkle  them  thoroughly  with  water,  heap  a  j 
layer  of  soil  over  them  and  let  them  heat.  Keep  a  little  jd 
plaster  sprinkled  over  the  outside  of  the  heap.  After 
they  have  heated  well  for  some  weeks,  fork  or  rake  the  jl 
heap  over  ;  compost  the  fine  part  any  where  you  like,  and 
subject  the  rest  to  a  repetition  of  the  process.  The  hrok-  ' 
en  hones,  after  soaking  with  water  several  days,  may  be  i 
treated  with  oil  of  vitriol,  (half- water)  added  pretty  free-  f 
ly,  and  tlie  heap  worked  over  with  a  shovel.  A  large  i, 
part  of  the  bones  will  be  converted  into  superphosphate,  ■' 
and  may  be  applied  mixed  witii  saw  dust  or  earth. 

Effow  So  SBrosilc  BSoiscs  w3s!i  a, 

L.  A.  Gavineau.  Find  a  log  with  a  hollow  say  14  inches  ; 
in  diameter.  Saw  this  so  as  to  form  a  ring  about  a  foot  i 
high,  and  split  or  saw  a  piece  out  of  the  side,  leaving  the 
ring  like  the  letter  C.  This  partial  ring  is  placed  on  a  | 
rock  or  other  hard  and  heavy  base  ;  the  bones,  one  at  a  I 
time,  are  placed  in  the  middle  of  it  and  struck  with  a  ' 
sledge  hammer,  which  should  be  so  held  that  ti  e  pieces, 
or  tlie  unbroken  bone,  if  the  blow  does  not  crush  il,  will 
not  fly  through  the  opening  made  for  the  handle  of  ihe  I 
sledge.  With  patience  bones  may  'be  broken  in  this 
way,  but  every  community  should  have  a  good  mill. 

Ijiqnid  Mannre. — “  W.  R.”  has  a  quantity 


1805.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICUT.TIJRIST, 


Q05 


of  hell  mantiie.  which  he  wishes  to  ii.se  in  tlie  liqniil 
form.  A  peck  or  so  in  a  han  el  of  water  will  make  it 
quite  strong  cnotigli.  This  should  not  lie  put  upon  the 
foliase.  but  ovet  the  roots  of  plants.  It  is  better  to  apply 
it  weak  and  have  it  diffusad  in  the  soil,  as  far  as  the 
'  roots  extend.  Once  oi  twine  a  week  will  be  often 
enough,  and  if  possible  apply  it  just  before  a  rain. 

B  is*  5*  or  IPost- 

drette.—hcinnel  Church,  writes  :  “  In  a  past  number 

?  of  the  A  gricuUurist  I  saw  it  stated  that  stovepipes,  wa- 
'  ter  buckets,  etc.,  etc...  were  taken  from  the  niglit  soil  be¬ 
fore  it  was  prepared  for  poudrette.  I  found  in-  a  barrel 
of  poudrettc  a  year  or  two  ago.  the  fol. owing  articles: 

‘  coal  cinders,  ashes,  burnt  and  ujiburnt  bones  and  shells, 
pieces  of  earthen,  stone,  gla.ss  and  china  ware,  pieces 
of  window  and  looking  glass,  pieces  of  black,  blue, 
green  and  white  bottle  glass,  pieces  of  tobacco  pipes, 
bricks,  lime  and  cement,  shirt  and  other  buttons,  nails, 
feathers,  rosin,  peanut  shells,  piece  of  lobsters  claw,  pins, 
piece  of  comb,  a  dress  hook,  hair  pins,  shavings  and 
pieces  of  bark,  isinglass,  a  pair  of  sleeve  buttons,  a  hog’s 
tooth,  a  marble,  whalebone,  rattan,  straw,  fish  scales, 
pieces  of  springs  of  hoop  skirts,  wire,  leather,  rags,  egg 
shells,  piece  of  slate,  a  carpet  tack,  matches,  corn,  oats, 
seeds  of  dales,  oranges,  watermelons,  muskmelons,  and 
raisins,  two  kinds  of  seeds  name  not  known,  cherry 
stones,  saltpetre,  a  child’s  toy  of  turned  wood,  dead 
leaves,  etc.,  etc.,  etc.”  A  curious  compost,  truly  ! 

of  Turnip  Seed  per  Acre. 

“  A.  H.  J.,”  Morris  Co.,  N.  J.,  asks  of  the  Agriculturist : 
‘‘  IIow  much  turnip  seed  is  required  to  sow  an  acre 
broadcast.”  There  is  no  rule  that  can  be  recommended 
to  suit  different  kinds  of  turnips,  and  a  variety  of  soils. 
If  the  seed  is  good,  and  the  soil  in  fine  condition,  one 
pint  will  be  sufficient  to  seed  it  well,  if  distributed  even¬ 
ly.  Mingle  the  seed  with  eight  or  ten  quarts  of  gypsum, 
dry  sand,  or  ashes,  anil  sow  both  ways.  Divide  the  seed 
into  as  many  parcels  as  there  are  rounds  sown.  (.A  round 
has  the  width  of  two  casts— forth  and  back.)  In  this  way 
the  seed  can  be  scattered  very  uniformly.  If  there  is 
danger  that  the  turnip  fly  w  ill  destroy  more  or  less  of 
the  young  plants  in  the  seed  leaf,  better  sow  one  quart  of 
seed.  Then,  if  they  are  too  thick,  after  the  tops  are  too 
large  to  be  injured  by  the  fly,  go  through  them  and  thin 
out  w  ith  a  broad  hoe  or  a  bayonet  hoe.  A  man  can  thin 
a  large  patch  in  a  day. 

iSBcrits  of  B>»ra»-f  ISroosn  Corn.— 

Elias  Reed,  of  Lucas  Co.,  0.,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist-. 
“  The  proportion  of  limber  corn  in  my  crop  was  compar¬ 
atively  small,  probably  not  more  than  one  sixth  part  of 
the  whole.  But,  without  this,  I  know  not  what  we 
should  have  done  for  the  middle  of  the  brooms,  as  the 
greater  portion  vvas  only  suitable  for  wrappers.  Those 
who  have  seen  the  brooms  made  of  this  corn  acknowl¬ 
edge  that  they  are  very  nice  and  elastic.  The  stalks  of 
Ihis  variety,  if  cut  up  as  soon  as  the  corn  is  pulled  off, 
which  is  the  usual  manner  of  harvesting  it,  afford  more 
fodile.-  than  I  know  how  to  raise  from  any  thing  else,  on 
the  same  ground.  The  leaves  of  the  dwarf  corn  are  large 
and  numerous,  of  course  they  absorb  from  the  atmos¬ 
phere  more  nourishment  than  small  ones.  The  stalks 
are  well  covered  with  husks  which,  if  properly  cured, 
make  nutritious  feed  for  slock.  It  is  doubtless  two  weeks 
later  than  the  tall  variety,  and  therefore  should  be  plant¬ 
ed  early  and  on  rich  soil.”  Our  readers  will  remember 
that  we  have  published  reports  unfavorable  to  this  variety. 
Each  kind  has  its  strong  and  sensible  advocates. 

Ts'ce  Protectors.— These  are  mostly  eon- 
Blructed  with  a  view  to  prevent  the  wingless  female  in¬ 
sect  from  crawling  up  the  trunk  of  the  tree  to  lay  her 
eggs,  from  which  the  destructive  worms  (larvcs)  are 
hatched,  as  noticed  in  an  article  on  canker  worms.  Sey¬ 
mour’s  Patent,  manufactured  by  P.  &  F.  Corbin,  is  very 
simple  in  principle,  easily  applied,  and  durable.  “  Can¬ 
ker  ”  worms,  and  all  that  come  from  crawling  ancestry, 
will  be  effectually  headed  off  by  their  careful  use. 

Weis’llias  oa  ftlie  Farm,  of  ^r.ain,  wool, 
cattle,  etc.,  would  in  many  instances  be  of  great  ad¬ 
vantage  to  the  producer.  With  a  good  scale  at  hand, 
there  will  be  no  need  of  estimating  in  selling  produce  by 
weight.  The  increase  of  stock  under  different  modes  of 
treatment  can  be  correctly  noted,  thus  enabling  one  to 
’udge  of  the  proper  management.  Fairbanks’  scales  ad¬ 
vertised  in  this  paper,  have  a  long  tried  and  fully  sfstained 
reputation  for  accuracy  and  durability.  Their  manu¬ 
factures  are  we  believe  the  most  varied  and  extensive  in 
this  country,  if  not  in  the  world, 

IjigUtwinsr  Kods. — Some  oneconceruedin 
the  sale  of  a  patent  lightning  rod,  writes  to  say,  that  the 
article  published  in  the  June  Agriculturist,  uiron  the 
Btr'Jlcture  of  lightning  rods,  docs  him  great  injustice.  To 


which  we  reply,  we  can  not  help  it.  We  gave  some 
general  principles,  such  as  are  recognized  by  scientific 
men.  and  if  this  is  unjust  to  any  patented  notion,  so  much 
the  worse  for  the  patent.  Now.  we  have  nut  the  least 
doubt,  that  most  of  the  patented  rods  will  protect  a  build¬ 
ing,  if  properly  applied,  for  they  generally  fulfil  the  es¬ 
sential  conditions  stated  in  the  article  referred  to.  and  the 
patented  portion  usually  applies  to  some  unimportant 
peculiarity,  which  it  is  easy  to  make  people,  who  under¬ 
stand  nothing  of  the  subject,  believe  to  lie  essential.  As 
we  never  before  heard  of  our  correspondent's  rod.  we 
eertainlv  had  no  reference  to  him,  and  as  his  especial 
grievance  is.  that  the  article  recommended  iron,  while 
ha  sells  copiier  rods,  we  will  say  that  copper  is  a  much 
better  conducter  than  iron,  and  that  a  rod  of  copper  of  a 
given  size  will  conduct  electricity  much  more  readily, 
than  an  iron  one  of  the  same  diameter.  As  an  iron  rod, 
sufficiently  large  and  properly  placed,  will  afford  ade¬ 
quate  protection,  it  is  generally  used  on  account  of  its 
greater  cheapness  and  stiffness  :  but  there  is  no  reason 
why  those  who  choose  to  do  so,  should  not  use  copper. 

CIotStes-^V*"i«*g'CJ’@  have  deservedly  become 
a  household  institution  in  the  land,  to  the  great  satisfac¬ 
tion  of  the  housekeeper,  and  the  benefit  of  those  who 
have  to  pay  for  clothing.  From  several  years’  experience 
with  the  Universal  Wringer,  we  believe  it  has  paid  for 
itself  every  year  in  the  saving  of  the  wear  of  garments, 
to  say  nothing  of  the  relief  to  the  wu  ists  of  the  washer¬ 
woman.  We  have  sent  out  hundreds  of  these  imple¬ 
ments  as  premiums  for  obtaining  subscriptions  to  the 
Agriculturist,  always  with  satisfaction  to  the  recipients, 
and  we  have  yet  to  hear  of  a  family  where  they  have 
been  thrown  aside  from  dislike,  after  being  well  tried. 

Mixing  or  Sqnasiscs. — “  Long  Island.’’ 
Different  varieties  will  mix,  but  the  readiness  with  which 
they  do  so,  seems  to  vary.  We  have  excellent  authority 
in  proof  that  squashes  and  pumpkins  will  form  a  cross. 
As  to  the  question  whether  the  results  of  such  a  mixture 
w'ill  be  manifest  in  the  fruit,  or  only  be  seen  in  its  proge¬ 
ny,  it  is  one  upon  which  we  have  but  little  positive  infor¬ 
mation,  and  concerning  which  we  should  be  glad  of 
facts.  We  have  given,  last  year,  all  the  proof  upon  this 
point  in  our  possession.  The  general  belief  is  that  the 
fruit  is  not  affected,  and  we  know  one  large  cultiv.ator 
who  grows  the  different  varieties  in  proximity,  and  says 
he  can  discover  no  change  in  the  fruit,  but  that  he  never 
plants  seed  of  his  own  raising  for  fear  of  crosses.  Please 
give  us  the  result  of  the  planting  of  your  squashes  and 
pumpkins  near  together. 

Canada.  Tlii.stle. — A  Canada  correspondent 
is  “  in  a  state  of  mind ’’because  this  farmers’  pest  is  in 
our  country  called  after  Ajs  country,  and  thinks  it  is  in 
some  way  an  unmerited  reproach  upon  Canada.  If  we 
had  had  the  naming  of  the  plant,  we  should  have  spared 
our  neighbors  over  the  border,  but  as  it  is  now  we  are 
obliged  to  use  a  generally  recognized  name.  The 
British- subjects  dignify  one  of  their  troubles  as  the  Am¬ 
erican  Blight,  so  we  don’t  see  but  the  account  is  square. 
We  suppose  that  the  thistle  is  named  so  because  the 
plant  first  found  its  -way  to  this  country  from  Europe  by 
the  way  of  Canada,  and  the  people  of  that  country 
ought  to  be  made  to  suffer  a  little  for  giving  such  a  rebel 
aid  and  comfort,  until  he  was  strong  enough  to  make  a 
raid  across  our  borders.  If  it  will  comfort  our  Canadian 
friend,  we  w  ill  admit  that  Cursed  Thistle,  one  of  its  Euro¬ 
pean  names,  is  more  expressive  and  appropriate. 

eSrapes  and  Wine.— O.  D.  E.  It  is  not 
possible  to  make  wine  from  unripe  grapes.  If  your 
grapes  have  a  “  very  thick  skin,”  the  variety  is  probably 
not  worth  cultivating.  It  makes  but  little  difference 
whether  they  drop  or  not.  It  is  likely  that  the  Juice  of 
green  grapes,  with  the  addition  of  sufficient  sugar, would 
make  a  liquid  which  some  people  call  wine,  as  will  the 
Juice  of  rhubarb  stalks.but  we  don’t  encourage  the  mak¬ 
ing  of  such  stuff.  We  shall  probably  have  something  to 
say  of  wine-making  at  the  proper  season  ;  in  the  mean¬ 
while  see  article  in  last  October’s  Agriculturist. 

<5i*ape  Vines  in  I*ots.— M.  H.  H.,  Mount 
Pleasant,  Iowa,  writes  to  know  how  to  dwarf  a  grape 
vine  so  that  it  will  grow  in  a  pot.  Our  native  vines  may 
be  grown  in  pots  for  amusement,  and  we  should  select 
the  Delaware  for  the  experiment.  Plant  a  1-year  old 
vine  in  a  large  pot,  and  treat  as  we  directed  April,  1864. 

Vii*e  Cnitnre  at  tlie  Soiitii. — The  gen¬ 
tleman  who  advertises  respecting  vine  culture  in  the 
Southern  States,  comes  recommended  to  us  as  one  of 
experience  and  reliability,  and  one  whose  reputation  is 
worthy  the  attention  of  Northern  capitalists. 

Aspai'a^iis  ISeds  and  Cnrrant 
ISusUcs. — “  Subscriber,”  Carlinsville,  Ill.,  asks  “  how 


deep  should  Asparagus  roots  be  covered  with  soil?” 
Thiee  to  four  inches.  “Shoul’d  the  seed  that  fill  van 
nua'Iy  he  .suffered  to  siirout  and  grow  ?”  No.  the  young 
asp-iragus  [  lants  are  as  troublesome  as  any  other  weed. 
*•  Does  the  bed  need  a  protecting  coat  of  manure  in  this 
latitude?’'  'V’es.  not  only  as  a  protection  but  for  the 
nourishment  thus  afforded.  See  method  of  training  the 
Gooseberry  and  Currant  on  page  339,  November,  1803. 

Traill issji'  liar  — W.  A.  Duff,  Wells 

Co..  Inil.  This  is  hut  Mule  T>racti.sed  in  our  country. 
Pinch  the  end  of  the  plant  when  it  has  made  two  leaves; 
this  will  cause  two  runners  to  grow,  (one  from  the  axil  of 
each  leaf)  which  are  slopped  by  pinching  when  they  have 
made  5  or  6  leaves,  and  the  branches  which  start  from 
these  may  be  allowed  to  run.  or  be  stopped  by  pinch¬ 
ing  when  sufficient  fruit  is  set. 


Foi’aH  of  F3ii>ivrr  BBrdr*  In  Tiirl'. — 

“Lady  Stibscriber.”  An  oval  is  the  most  generally 
pleasing  form.  A  crescent  with  rounded  points,  is  very 
appropriate  in  some  situations.  Avoid  all  angular 
shapes  or  anything  elaborate. 

TSae  B-’iirlatsisi  drops  its  Imdst. — “M.  D. 
W..”  Portage  Co.,  O.  There  are  but  few  of  the  Fuch¬ 
sias  which  will  bloom  during  the  winter,  and  probably 
your  plant  needed  rest.  The  best  way  with  Fuch¬ 
sias  generally  is,  to  put  them  in  the  cellar  after  they  have 
dropped  their  leaves  in  autumn,  and  keep  them  there  till 
March  orAiu  il.  Then  hv  watering  them  and  placing  them 
in  a  sunny  window,  they  will  start  into  a  vigorous  growth, 
and  give  an  abundance  of  flowers  a. I  summer. 

A  Flsie  Aaalra. — There  was  shown  on  oiir 
exhibition  table  a  rnagnificient  specimen  of  Azalea  Ivery- 
ana,  remark.alily  wel.  shaped,  over  three  feet  across  and 
so  completely  covere  t  with  bloom,  as  to  conceal  the  fo¬ 
liage.  This  plant  wi.“  a  vvmie  floral  exhibition  in  itself, 
and  reflects  great  cieult  upon  Its  grower,  Wm.  John  Hut¬ 
chinson,  gardener  to  F.  .A.  Lane,  Esq..  Staten  Island. 

Ab*  EverlasIlMg-  B-’SoAverlTor  .’’%’;*me.— 
“  U.  B.,”  Adrian,  Mich.  The  specimen  is  Gnaphalium 
fa'.tidum,  -SO  much  used  uy  the  French  under  the  name  of 
immortelles,  to  forn  fune-al  w.eaths.  The  seeds  may  be 
had  at  seed  stores,  and  it  does  best  in  rather  poor  soil. 

Seedinjs:  down  ■will*  SI«5«“'aj*lsio* 
Grass. — E. Wilson.  Westchester  Co.  This  millet  makes 
so  much  leaf  and  sh.ades  the  ground  so  much,  that  it  is 
hardly  possible  for  the  grass  sowed  with  it  to  get  suffi¬ 
cient  strength  to  bear  the  sun  after  the  Hungarian  grass 
is  cut.  We  have  seen  a  seeding  take  very  well  and 
make  a  good  sward  tl-e  first  season,  sowed  with  Hunga¬ 
rian  grass,  but  this  is  not  a  usual  occurrence. 

Tei’fsiniiiioBa  Seed. — J.  L.  Martin,  Merrick 
Co.,  Kanstvs.  We  never  had  occasion  to  plant  these  , 
should  gather  the  seed  when  the  plant  was  thoroughly 
ripe  and  keep  in  sand  until  spring. 

Tlie  I5istf.oB*w»ods.  —  “Buttonwood” 
Philadelphia,  asks  what  is  the  matter  with  some  trees  in 
his  vicinity.  The  unhealthiness  of  the  Buttonwood  or 
Plane  trees,  extends  to  most  parts  of  the  country,  tiiid  we 
have  not  seen  a  flourishing  one  this  year.  The  trouble, 
with  how  much  truth  we  cannot  say,  is  attributed  to  not 
maturing  the  growth  of  the  year  before.  The  trouble 
first  became  serious  in  1842,  and  since  then  the  trees 
have  had  a  hard  struggle  for  existence,  and  they  seem  to 
look  worse  this  year  than  ever  before. 

tiOCiist  SiiclfCB'S. — A.  J.  Richards  asks,  if 
the  common  locust  will  throw  up  suckers  if  raised  from 
seed.  Ves.  It  will  sometimes  sucker  under  any  cir¬ 
cumstances,  and  especially  if  the  roots  are  wounded  by 
the  plow  or  otherwise. 

I*apaAV-Ba*-l£  Ibr  Tyinj^.  —  J.  A. 

Whistlitt,  Ray  Co.,  Mo.,  uses  the  bark  of  the  papaw  as  a 
substitute  for  bass  bark  to  tie  up  grape  vines,  etc.  The 
bark  is  removed  from  the  tree  and  soaked  in  water 
until  the  layers  separate  readily,  taking  care  not  to  let 
it  be  in  the  water  too  long,  as  it  becomes  weakened. 

I®laists  in  Partial  ^liadc. — C.  D.ays, 
Huron  Co.,  C,  W.  Among  fruits,  raspberries,  goose¬ 
berries  and  currants  of  vegetables,  carrots,  celery,  late 
lettuce,  radishes,  spinach,  and  probably  some  other  things 
will  do  well  when  not  in  the  sun  until  afternoon. 

Soap  -Avaste  Tor  Caterpillars.— A  cor¬ 
respondent  takes  the  liquor  left  after  mttking  hard  soap 
from  soft  by  means  of  salt,  dilutes  it  with  two  parts  of 
water,  and  throws  the  liqitid  over  the  trees  by  means  of  a 
syringe;  he  says  that  it  effectively  destroyed  caterpillars 


206 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[July, 


91  lick  anH  Bjime  Compost. — “  F.  V. 

F.”  Fairfield  Co.,  Conn  — There  are  so  great  differences 
In  .and  various  qualities  of  muck  that  it  is  impossible  to 
compare  it  with  any  standard.  Barnyard  manure  is 
.about  as  uncertain  a  one  as  could  be  named.  In  com¬ 
posting  with  lime,  use  about  two  bushels  of  good  oyster- 
shell  lime  (best  slacked  on  the  place)  with  one  load  (say 
25  bushels)  of  muck.  It  will,  if  fine,  make  a  good  top¬ 
dressing  for  rye  and  may  be  applied  in  the  spring,  but 
better  in  the  fall,  at  the  rate  of  30  or  more  loads  to  the 
acre.  Dress  grass  lands  with  It  in  August  or  early  in 
Autumn,  rather  than  in  the  spring.  In  composting  muck 
with  lime,  ashes,  soda  ash,  or  any  such  thing,  spread  a 
layer  6  inches  thick  and  sprinkle  over  the  lime  or  other 
article  in  due  proportion,  and  make  the  heap  of  conve¬ 
nient  hight  by  placing  other  layers  in  the  same  way. 
After  a  few  weeks  cut  the  heap  down,  beginning  at  one 
end,  and  pile  it  up  again,  shoveling  it  over  and  thus 
mixing  all  together. 

Blow  to  Clear  Caiid  of  Wild  Car¬ 
rots.— B.  U.  Satterlee.— Put  the  land  in  hoed  crops  and 
keep  it  clean  and  frequently  stirred  in  such  weather  as 
the  seed  will  sprout  in,  for  two  years.  Most  of  the  seed 
in  the  ground  will  thus  germinate  and  be  killed.  On 
sward  land  it  is  hard  to  kill  them,  but  never  letting  one 
go  to  seed,  and  letting  no  seeds  from  the  road  or  neigh¬ 
bor’s  fields  wash  on,  will  work  an  effectual  riddance. 

Bisamed. — M.  R.  Allen,  York  Co., 
•Me.- 1.  Ciiniu.i  Canmlensts,  Ibe  Dwarf  Cornel  or  Bunch- 
herry.  2,  Smilacina  bifolia,  or  Two-leaved  Solomon’s 
Seal.  3.  Uvularia  scsstli/olia.  Sessile-leaved  Bellwort. 

I).  W.  Hooker,  Vt.,  the  seed  of  some  kind  of  Big- 
nonia  or  Trumpet-creeper,  but  the  particular  one  cannot 
be  toll!  from  seed  alone. ...  F.  Schreiner,  Crawford  Co., 
Pa.,  the  American  Yew,  Taxus  Canadensis.... Miss  E. 
Noble.  Shawano  Co.  One  of  the  Morels,  which  are  gen¬ 
erally  eatable  fungi,  but  whether  this  is  a  wholesome  one 
or  not  we  are  unable  to  say. ...J.  Foulke.  Chionanthus 
Vtrginica  figured  in  the  Agriculturist  for  June,  1864.... 
E.  I).  Velie,  Suspension  Bridge,  Olde7ilandia  purpurea 
var.  cilwlata.  Bluets. . .  We  are  obliged  to  repeat  that  we 
cannot  undertake  to  guess  at  poorly  crushed  fragments  ; 
iliough  willing  to  name  plants  for  our  friends  we  must 
ask  tlicin  to  send  fair  materials.  One  lady  sends  us  .some 
25  fi  iigments,  each  rolled,  when  fresh,  in  a  scrap  of  paper 
and  tieil  with  a  thread.  To  open  each  one  of  these  mi¬ 
nute  bits  would  take  more  time  than  we  can  well  afford. 
If  the  lady  will  press  her  plants  and  give  specimens  at 
least  as  large  as  will  cover  an  envelope  it  will  give  us 
pleasure  to  name  them  for  her. 

IBottIc  tlie  — Preserves  are  becomiug 

and  should  be  obsolete.  It  is  so  easy  to  put  up  fresh 
fruit  in  bottles  or  jars,  that  every  one  may  thus  preserve 
almost  every  kind  of  fruit  and  sauce,  and  keep  it  in  nearly 
its  fresh  state.  We  use  the  Baker,  or  Potter  &  Bodine 
glass  jars  almost  exclusively,  after  having  trie'd  numerous 
other  kinds.  The  ripe  but  not  over-ripe  strawberries  or 
other  fruits,  are  picked  clean,  put  into  a  glazed  vessel 
with  a  little  sugar,  (>i  to  a  the  wxight  of  sugar,  ac¬ 
cording  to  the  sweetness  of  the  fruit)  and  simply  heated 
through— just  boiling  up  once  is  usually  sufficient.  The 
glass  jars  are  warmed  as  wanted,  by  plunging  them 
rapidly  into  hot  water  a  few  times,  then  filled  with  hot 
water  for  a  few  minutes,  w  hen  they  are  emptied  and  the 
hot  fruit  is  dipped  in  carefully,  to  keep  it  as  whole  as 
possible.  The  jars  are  filled  to  the  top,  allowed  to  stand 
a  minute  or  two.  and  gently  jarred  to  cause  the  rising 
and  escape  of  any  air  bubbles.  They  are  then  filled 
again  to  the  top,  the  top  edge  of  the  jar  wiped  off  with  a 
damp  cloth,  the  caps  fastened  on  firmly,  and  then  set 
away  in  a  cellar  until  wanted  for  use.  Rhubarb,  toma¬ 
toes,  etc.,  are  simply  cooked  as  for  the  table,  and  put  up 
hot,  without  any  sugar. 

I'rcservaBiK'  B-'i’iiit. — In  May  last  we  gave 
an  account  of  Prof.  Nyce’.s  house  for  preserving  fruits. 
Now,  in  the  middle  of  .lune  we  have  the  opportunity  to 
test  some  of  the  fruit  that  has  been  kept  there  since 
last  autumn.  Apples,  such  as  Baldwin.  Rambo,  etc., 
are  now  as  fresh,  crisp  and  sprightly  as  one  could  wish, 
and  the  [iroccss  may  ne  regarded  as  a  perfe<u  success. 

BEI;B«;2*:S!><‘i*B-y  EEa>ol  4»ood  fioi’  SsJiibbb- 
mcr  ConsplaiiU.— We  have  great  faith  in  a  decoc¬ 
tion  of  (jesh  blackberry  root  for  loosene.ss  of  the  bowels. 
I.asl  summer  it  completely  cured  a  severe  case  of  chron¬ 
ic  soulhein  oi  army  diarrluea.  after  the  other  remedies  of 
the  best  physicians  had  proved  unavailing,  and  it  in¬ 
variably  cured  in  many  other  c.'ises  w  here  it  was  after¬ 
wards  recommended.  Dig  the  green  roots,  rejecting 
those  thiit  are  large  and  woody.  Wash  thoroughly  clean, 
and  steep  in  water  at  the  rate  of  a  quart  to  half  a  pound 
of  the  root.  Boll  down  one-half,  and  then  strain  or  pour 


off.  Put  the  liquid  In  a  bottle  with  about  ^  its  bulk  of 
brandy,  whiskey,  or  alcohol,  to  keep  It  from  souring, 
and  cork  tight.  A  tablespoonful  of  this,  rather  less  for  a 
child,  is  to  be  taken  three  or  four  times  a  day,  say  before 
each  meal  time.  We  would  not  go  from  home,  especial¬ 
ly  southward,  without  taking  this  preparation  along. 
The  blackberry  brandies  or  cordials  made  from  the  ber¬ 
ries  are  of  little  account  as  a  remedy  for  diarrheea.  The 
virtue  lies  in  the  roots,  not  in  the  berries. 


Inquiry  a1>out  Cider  Hill. — C.  B.  R., 

Portage  Co.,  O.,  inquires  for  the  best  and  cheapest  kind 
of  cider  mill,  with  which  the  apples  are  ground  by  horse 
power,  and  the  cider  to  be  pressed  out  without  laying  up 
a  cheese  with  straw,  and  capable  of  making  40  or  50  bar¬ 
rels  per  day.  If  there  are  any  cider  mills  of  this  capac¬ 
ity  in  existence,  we  have  never  heard  of  them.  There 
are  those  capable  of  grinding  apples  enough  in  a  day  to 
make  60  barrels  of  cider ;  but  the  pomace  must  either  be 
laid  up  in  a  cheese  with  straw,  or  a  large  wooden  curb 
must  be  employed  to  retain  the  pomace  in  place.  In 
order  to  make  good  cider,  pomace  should  not  be  pressed 
until  after  it  has  been  ground  20  or  more  hours.  Where 
cider  is  made  on  a  large  scale,  the  apples  are  ground  by 
water-power,  or  steam,  and  kept  in  large  vats  15  or  20 
hours  before  the  cider  is  expressed.  A  hydraulic  press 
maybe  used.  By  this  means  the  grinding  and  pressing  do 
not  interfere  with  each  other,  and  the  pomace  is  allowed 
to  remain  long  enough  to  secure  a  good  flavor  and  color 
for  the  cider,  which  it  cannot  have  if  pressed  as  soon  as 
the  apples  are  ground. 

BSroccoIi. — R.  S.  Cotterell,  Minn.  Broccoli 
should  head  the  same  year.  It  is  usually  surer  to  head 
than  cauliflower,  but  is  a  poor  substitute  for  it. 

Miisliroom  CiB.ltBai’e. — “  Subscriber”  will 
find  an  account  of  the  manner  of  making  the  beds,  etc., 
by  one  of  our  most  successful  growers,  in  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  for  May,  1864. 

Fi-Biit  StaiBis.— It  does  not  appear  to  be 
generally  known  that  the  stains  of  strawberries,  and  of 
most  other  fruits,  as  well  as  coffee  stains,  may  be  readily 
removed  from  table  linen  and  other  white  fabrics  by 
pouring  boiling  w  ater  upon  them  before  washing. 

Pliotoi^i’aplis  of  Hiincolii.  will  adorn 
the  homes  of  thousands  of  those  who  cherish  his  memory. 
Those  published  by  F.  P.  Whiting,  in  this  city,  are  cor¬ 
rect  likenesses,  and  handsomely  finished.  The  represen¬ 
tation  of  “  Lincoln  at  Home,”  will  probably  be  a  favorite. 

TTJie  “  WnslBimj^toBi  MtsiBBal  IScnciit 
Association,”  for  which  circulars  are  widely  distrib¬ 
uted  by  mail  at  the  West  is  a  swindle.  Atkinson  Depot, 
N.  II.,  is  gaining  an  unenviable  notoriety  as  the  point 
whence  such  operations  are  carried  on.  Will  not  some 
one  there  enforce  the  law  against  lottery  swindling  ? 

BSowen’s  Microscope,  advertised  in 
many  papers  to  be  sold  for  25  cents,  is  worth  nothing. 

Price  of"  Beef— New  GoveriBBiseBit 
Contract,— In  the  April  Agriculturist,  p.  107,  we  gave 
the  terms  and  conditions  of  the  contract  for  supplying  the 
army  and  navy  from  March  15  to  June  15th.  The  contract 
has  been  taken  for  three  months  more  by  the  same  parties, 
and  on  the  same  conditions,  but  at  a  large  reduction  in 
prices.  The  previous  contract  was  at  $13.49  per  100  lbs. 
live  weight  for  first  quality  cattle ;  the  new  terms  are 
$9.35,  a  reduction  of  nearly  thirty-one  per  cent.,  or  from 
24  cts.  to  16%  cts.  per  lb.  for  the  dressed  weight,  reckon¬ 
ing  56  lbs.  dressed  to  the  100  lbs.  live  weight,  which  is  the 
usual  shrinkage  allowed  for  good  cattle.  The  contractors 
are  pretty  likely  to  understand  the  state  of  the  supply  in 
the  country  and  the  probable  range  of  the  market.  For 
the  terms  of  delivery,  quality  of  cattle,  etc.,  see  page  107. 


IRxIlaiI>ition  'Fables  at  tlie  Office  of" 
flBc  Amei'icaiB  Ag'ricitlturist. 

The  following  articles  have  been  placed  on  our  tables 
for  exhibition  during  the  past  few  months.  Want  of 
space  has  prevented  noticing  them  previously.  This  list 
does  not  include  the  fine  show  of  strawbenies  recently 
held,  details  of  which  are  given  elsewhere  : 

Faurr.s.-Isabella  Grapes,  well  kept;  John  Cole,  Staten 
Island.  .  Iron  Apples  ;  G.  M.  Usher,  Port  Richmond,  N. 

Y . Model  of  Duchess  Pear,  original  weight  35%  oz.  ; 

Dr.  I.  M.  Ward,  Newark,  N.  J  —  Strawberries.  Agri¬ 
culturist  plant  in  fruit;  Isaac  Pullen,  Ilightstown,  N.  J. 

.  .  .Triomphe  de  Gand  ;  Daniel  Ilax,  Egg  Harbor  City, 
N.  J  —  Russell,  Green  Prolific,  Downer’s,  La  Constante, 
Agriculturist,  and  Lennig's  White  ;  C.  S.  Pell,  N,  Y. 


Orphan  Asylum.... Wilson ;  E.  D.  Cadwell,  New  Bruns-  J 
wick,  N.  J.... Agriculturist,  G.  M.  Usher,  Port  Rich-  i 
mond,  N.  Y.,  and  W.  Teft,  Fordham,  N.  Y„  also  from  1 
W.  Teft,  fine  seedlings  from  Agriculturist. ...Chorlton’s,  |l 
Triomphe  de  Gand,  Crimson  Favorite,  and  Agriculturist;  " 

John  Cole,  Tompkinsville,  N.  Y _ Wilson ;  O.  F.  Tllson,  ! 

Highland,  N. Y . . .  .Black  Hamburg  Grapes,  cluster  weigh-  | 
ing  2  lbs.,  1  oz. ;  John  Ellis,  Hart’s  Corners,  N,  Y....  1 
Peaches,  Nectarines  and  Apricots;  John  McGowan,  1 
gardener  to  Blakesly  Wilson,  Esq.,  Hudson  City,  N.  J.  . 
....Normandy  Pippins,  imported  from  England;  Dr.  i 
Hall,  N.  Y.  City.  1 

Flowers.— Beautiful  Camellias;  Wm.  Chorlton,  i 

Staten  Island,  N.  Y Gorgonias  ;  A.  N.  Roberts,  N.  Y.  l] 

City - Bouquet  of  Everlasting  Flowers;  Jas.  Vick, 

Rochester,  N.  Y....Fine  Cut  Flowers;  Miss  M.  E.  ' 
Cortelyou,  Staten  Island  —  New  Seedling  Tea  Rose; 

I.  Buclianan,  Astoria,  L.  I _ Fuchsia;  C.  M.*Mande- 

wirth,  N.  Y.  City — Fuchsia,  Tulips,  Narcissus,  Ixia, 
Wistaria,  etc. ;  C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum ...  .Cut  ' 
Flowers;  T.  Kavanagh,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y...  New  Seed-  i 

ling  Rose;  Wm.  H.  Burgess,  Glen  Cove,  N.  Y _ Fine  :i 

Bouquet;  Keyset’s  Island,  South  Norwalk,  Ct _ Dahlias  \ 

in  Bloom  ;  John  Abberlee,  N.  Y.  City _ Splendid  plant  I’ 

massed  with  blooms  of  Azalea  Iveryana,  and  blooms  of  ; 
Passiflora  Decasineii ;  John  Hutchinson,  gardener  to  F. 

A.  Lane,  Staten  Island.... Purple  Hyacinths  in  bloom  ;  i 

Jacob  Newkirk,  Hudson  City,  N.  J _ Lilium  auratum  ; 

Dr.  Payton,  N.  J - Bloom  of  Clematis  Sieboldii  bi-  [ 

color ;  W.  S.  Carpenter,  Rye,  N.  Y. 

Vegetables,  Grain,  etc.— Fine  Yellow  Flint  Corn, 

Wm.  Brush,  Sandwich,  Conn _ Cracker,  Dover,  or  Irish 

Cup  Potatoes  ;  S.  P.  Champney,  Saunderville,  Mass.... 
Peach  Blow  Potato,  weight  1  lb.,  9  oz. ;  H.  G.  Randall,  i 

Middle  Island,  N.  Y - Large  Turnip,  weight  21  lbs. ;  Mr. 

Lott,  Milford,  Pa - Improved  China  Tree  Corn;  J.  L. 

Huested,  Greenwich,  Conn _ 8-rowed  Yellow  Corn  ;  J.  ! 

Van  Woert,Fort  Lee,  N.  J... .Carrot,  curious  growth 
Capt.  Nimmo,  Flushing,  N.  Y...  Clover  and  Timothy 
Hay,  handsomely  cured  ;  J.  B.,  Westchester  County,  N. 

Y  —  Large  Mushrooms,  Judge  Sturges,  New  Durham,  : 
N.  J..  ..Large  Corn  and  Carrots;  Cornelius  Van  Horn,  La 

Fayette,  N.  J - Deep  Red  Corn  ;  H.  B.  Rogers,  Hunt-  ' 

ington.  L.  I - 2  Stalks  Rhubarb,  weight  3  lbs.  8  oz. ;  E.  i 

Frapwell,  gardener  to  M.  A.  Ferguson,  Lakeland,  L.  I. 

- Asparagus,  19  Stalks  weighing  4  lbs.,  5  oz. ;  Edward 

Windust.  O.ak  Neck,  N.  Y - Stalk  of  Sugar  Cane,  24 

feet  long  ;  Mr.  ICirkham,  Porto  Rico,  W.  I. 

Miscellaneous.— Specimen  of  powder,  used  in  firing  , 
the  300  pounder  on  Morris  Island  at  Charleston  ;  from  3d  ■ 
R.  I.  Heavy  Artillery ...  .Squankum  Marl ;  Thos.  Winsor, 
Farmingdale,  N.  J  —  Mistletoe  from  an  Oak  Tree;  A. 

W.  Roberts,  N.  Y.  City - Sharks  Teeth  found  in  Marl , 

Edward  Pitcher,  Monmouth  Co.,  N.  J.  ..Native  Austra¬ 
lian’s  Boomerang;  A.  W.  Roberts,  N.  Y.  City _ Large  ! 

Brahma  Pootra  Egg ;  Mr.  Saunders,  Port  Richmond,  N, 

Y  - Gopher  Skin;  L.  Bishop,  Jackson,  Kansas _ Ex¬ 

cellent  Sorghum  Syrup  ;  Henry  Marsden,  Columbia  City,  ; 
Iowa  —  Large  Hens’  Eggs;  A.  E.  Noble.  Brooklyn.  N.  ^ 

;  J.  S.  Ileddon,  Verona,  N.  J. ;  Robt.  Sullivan,  Brook¬ 
lyn,  N.  Y.;  W.  II.  Bridgens,  Oyster  Bay,  N.  Y _ Bayonet 

from  Battle  Field  of  Petersburg,  Va.,  Brick  and  Wood 
from  Libby  Prison,  Richmond,  Va. ;  O.  Judd,  N.  Y.  City 
—  Australiaq  Nut,  used  by  native  girls  for  bracelets; 
Dr.  Ilall,  N.  Y.  City..  Perfect  egg  contained  within 
another  of  extraordinary  size  ;  A.  G.  Dean,  Staten  Island, 

N.  Y  —  Wood  of  Apple  Tree  destroyed  by  Borers 
Smith  Brow'n,  West  Farms,  N.  Y. 

- — - -  ' 

Hints  on  Showing  Poultry.— Poultry 
Show  at  the  Museum. 


During  the  last  week  in  April  a  poultry  exhibition  was 
held  at  Barnum’s  Museum,  at  which  there  were  not  only 
many  fine  birds  shown,  but  a  number  of  amateur  and 
professional  poultry  raisers  met,  and  improved  the  occa¬ 
sion  to  make  each  other’s  acquaintance,  and  to  talk  over 
their  pets.  All  the  more  prominent  families  of  fowls, 
from  the  mammoth  Brahmas  and  Cochins  to  the  diminu¬ 
tive  but  haughty  Seabright  Bantams,  were  there.  The 
Black  Spanish,  Brahmas,  Polands,  and  Hamburgs,  were 
the  varieties  best  represented.  It  was  a  disappointment 
not  to  see  the  Dorkings,  white  and  gray,  in  better  display, 
for  these  fine  birds,  not  without  reason,  claim  the  first 
position  as  the  most  useful  for  all  purposes.  The  most 
symmetrical  trio  of  Black  Spanish  fowls  was  shorn  of  first 
honors  by  reason  of  the  cock  having  a  drooping  comb. 
The  greatest  merit  a  Spanish  fowl  can  have.  Is  a  perfectly 
white  face,  but  if  a  cock  had  the  best  and  most  faultless 
face  that  ever  was  seen,  it  would  not  excuse  a  drooping 
comb.  Such  a  bird,  according  to  the  inflexible  decision 
of  all  fanciers  of  this  courtly  and  most  elegant  breed, 
must  be  thrown  out  of  competition. 

This  maybe  a  useful  hint  to  those  inlendlng  to  exhibit 
at  State  fairs,  and  we  make  one  more  suggestion.  In  re- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


Q07 


ference  to  the  manner  in  which  fowls  should  be  prepared 
for,  and  sent  to.  exliibUion.  viz. :  All  fowls  sliould  have 
Ihei'.'  legs  washed  clean  before  they  are  sent  to  a  show — 
scarf,  or  dead  skin,  should  he  removed  from  the  comb, 
dry  dirt  from  the  beak,  and  stains  from  the  plumage. 
They  shouhl,  if  possible,  always  be  packed  in  baskets, 
which  should  be  round,  high  enough  fru'  the  cocks  to 
stand  upright  in,  even  when  crowing.  The  baskets  should 
be  covered  with  canvas.  Fowls  sliould  be  thoroughly 
fed  before  they  leave  liome  for  a  fair  or  show,  but  the 
food  must  be  soft— bread,  sopped  or  steeped,  is  excellent ; 
hard  food  is  to  be  avoided,  because  the  digestion  will 
have  to  take  place  without  exercise  or  gravel.  Let  birds 
of  w  liite  plumage  run  at  liberty  till  wanted  to  send  away. 
Spanish  are  improved  by  confinement  in  a  dark  place  for 
some  days  before  sliowing,  giving  them  just  enough  light 
to  enable  them  to  pick  their  food  and  to  perch— they 
sliould  also  be  littered  with  straw',  as  cieanliness  has 
much  to  do  witli  the  success.  Game  fowls,  it  is  held, 
should  be  kept  up  for  a  few  days  and  fed  on  bread,  meal, 
bai  ley,  and  peas  :  these  latter  make  the  plumage  hard, 
but  tliey  also  have  a  tendency  to  fatten,  which  is  unde¬ 
sirable  in  games.  White  feathered  birds,  such  as  Silver 
Spangled  Hamburg,  Polands,  etc.,  all  require  washing. 
This  is  not  difficult— put  a  handful  of  soda  in  a  bowl  of 
warm  water  ;  immerse  the  fowl  entirely  ;  rinse  thorough¬ 
ly  in  cold  water  ;  wipe  with  a  flannel  and  place  in  a  bas¬ 
ket  with  straw,  before  a  fire  to  dry.  When  fowls  return 
from  a  show  looking  in  perfect  health,  do  nothing ;  but 
if  the  combs  are  dark,  or  crops  hard,  a  tablespoonful 
.‘'castor  oil  may  do  them  good. 

- - - 

(Editorial  Correspondence.) 

Visit  to  a  Virginia  Battle  Field.— A  Guide 

to  the  Chief  Points  of  Interest. 

•  - • - 

Jarratt  House,  Petersburg,  Va.,  June  "ilk,  1865. 

Last  July  4th,  while  engaged  with  the  Sanitary  Com- 
mis.sion  in  caring  for  our  sick  and  wounded  soldiers,  I 
wrote  to  the  readers  of  the  Agriculturist  from  a  point  2 
to  3  miles  north-east  of  where  I  now  sit,  giving  an  out¬ 
line  map  of  the  localities,  and,  so  far  as  I  could  tlien  see, 
of  the  military  works  around  the  city.  Then  I  could 
or.ly  look  over  Into  these  streets  ;  to-day,  I  am  pleasant¬ 


ly  seated  in  tlie  heart  of  the  city,  with  my  family  and  a 
party  of  friends.  Then  a  hundred  thousand  men  were 
intent  upon  breaking  iliroiigh  the  armed  forces  tliat  met 
them  at  every  point,  and  the  almost  unceasing  roar  of 
deep  toned  cannon,  and  the  rattle  of  small  arms  broke 
upon  the  ear  by  day  and  by  night.  To-day.  only  here 
and  tliere  will  one  find  an  armed  man  in  blue,  and  none 
in  grey,  and  over  tlie  vast  cliarnel  field  nought  but  the 
singing  of  uirds,  in  the  few  remaining  groves,  disturbs 

tlie  death-like  stillness. - Tlien  I  wrote,  that  no  other 

spot  I  had  ever  seen  in  this  country  or  in  Europe,  would 
so  well  repay  a  visit  immediately  after  tlie  war  sliould 
clo.se,  as  the  region  around  Petersburg.  To-day  I  feel 
this  more  strongly  than  then  For  three  days  I  have 
wandered  among  the  endless  lines  of  earth-works  and 
fortifications  that  belt  Petersburg  on  all  sides  but  the 
nortli.  and  I  am  sure  that  no  more  intensely  interesting 
locality  is  to  be  found  in  the  world,  when  we  take  into 
account  the  number  of  men  engaged,  the  length  of  time 
they  were  here,  the  severity  of  the  almost  d.aily  strug¬ 
gles,  and  the  closing  up  of  the  great  war,  of  which  the" 
final  decisive  contest  was  fought  just  southwest  of  this 

city. - That  is  hardly  an  over-estimate  wliich  gives  150 

to  200  miles  as  the  combined  length  of  the  earthworks, 
rifle-pits,  etc.,  within  ten  miles  of  Petersburg.  These 
alone,  seen  in  their  present  condition,  before  being 
greatly  marred  by  the  elements,  are  worth  a  journey  of  a 
thousand  miles  ...Hundreds  now  come  daily,  from  almost 
all  parts  of  the  country,  and  many  thousands  will  doubt¬ 
less  visit  this  place  tlve  present  year,  while  the  locality 
will  for  many  years,  if  not  centuries,  be  Increasingly  at¬ 
tractive _ I  learn  that  very  few  of  the  present  visitors 

see  more  than  n‘  small  part  of  what  is  to  be  seen  here¬ 
abouts,  because  there  are  no  maps  or  guides  to  assist  them. 
Thus,  most  examine  the  “  .Mine,”  Forts  Steadman, 
Sedgewick  (“  Hell,”)  and  Mahone  (“  Damnation,”)  and 
go  home  without  visiting  the  field  of  the  decisive  opera¬ 
tions  on  April  1st  and  2d,  last.  At  the  request  of  many 
persons  here,  I  will  attempt  to  give  a  little  outline  of 
some  of  the  more  interesting  points. 

The  map  on  this  page  shows  the  relative  position  of 
Petersburg,  Richmoml,  and  City  Point.  The  last  was 
Gen.  Grant’s  Head-quarters,  and  the  base  of  supplies  for 
the  army  of  the  Potomac,  during  ten  months.  (For 
description  of  this  map  and  of  the  position  of  the  armies, 
incidents,  etc.,  see  Agriculturist  for  August,  1864.)  In 
the  map  on  next  page,  is  a  general  outline  of  the  position 
of  forts,  etc.,  around  Pe¬ 
tersburg,  prior  to  April  1, 
this  year.  This  sketch 
is  from  my  own  notes 
made  while  going  over 
the  ground,  without  any 
measuring  line,  or  any 
compass  save  the  sun : 
hence  the  distances,  bear¬ 
ings,  and  angles,  may  not 
be  entirely  accurate,  but 
they  are  sufficiently  so, 
to  greatly  aid  the  visitor. 
The  map  is  on  a  scale 
guessed  at  about  one  inch 
to  the  mile.  Only  some 
principal  points  are  indi¬ 
cated.  There  are  scores 
of  batteries,  and  hun¬ 
dreds  of  short  lines,  small 
earthworks,  and  rifle-pits, 
etc.,  not  indicated.  Be¬ 
yond  or  outside  of  the 
space  covered  by  the  map, 
for  miles  away,  are  to  be 
found  forts,  earthworks, 
and  scenes  of  skirmishes 
and  pitched  battles,  as  at 
Ream’s  Station  down  the 
Weldon  railroad,  at  Five 
Forks  several  miles  south¬ 
west,  and  also  on  the 
Boydton  Plank  Road,  and 
along  Hatcher’s  Run.  The 
space  covered  by  the  map 
is  cut  up  with  lines  of 
breastworks,  rifle-pits, 
earth-forts,  thousands  of 
soldiers’  huts  still  stand¬ 
ing,  and  almost  unending 
lines  of  abatis  (ab-a-tee  ). 
These  last  consist  of 
sharpened  sticks  and  tree 
tops  placed  firmly  in  the 
ground,  and  leaning  out¬ 
ward,  a  few  rods  in  front 
of  the  main  lines  and 
around  the  forts,  ar¬ 
ranged  so  as  to  greatly  ob¬ 


struct  the  approach  of  an  enemy.  Most  of  the  abatis 
are  bound  togctlier  by  strong  wires.  Tliey  are  being 
removed  quite  rapidly  for  fire  wood,  by  the  negroes  and 
other  inliabitants  of  Petersburg.  This,  with  the 
washing  down  of  the  many  earth-ridges  and  rifle-pits 
by  rains,  and  the  leveling  of  otliers  for  agricultural  pur- 
po.'^es,  will  materially  change  tlie  appearance  of  the 
S' hole  region  ere  long.  The  main  lines  consist  chieflv 
of  heavy  continuous  banks  of  earth,  high  enough  to 
shield  tlie  bodies  of  the  men.  too  illicit  to  be  battered 
dow  n  by  cannon,  and  having  a  ditch  on  the  side  next  to  the 
enemy.  Forts  and  batteries  are  built  at  convenient  dis¬ 
tances  along  the  lines,  to  cover  tlie  space  between 
them,  and  are  usually  placed  upon  knolls,  or  liiglier  por¬ 
tions  of  tlie  ground.  Some  of  the  forts  are  very  large 
and  well  fini-lied.  witli  bomb-proofs.  A  bomb-proof  is 
usually  made  tliiis  :  a  sliallow  cellar  is  dug.  if  tlie  ground 
allow,  and  walls  of  logs  are  laid  6‘i  to  8  feet  high  ;  long 
log  beams  are  laid  across  the  top,  projecting  a  few  feet 
each  way  ;  upon  tliese.  :i  flooring  of  logs  is  placed  and 
eartli  piled  over,  and  also  up  against  tlie  sides,  so  thick 
as  to  be  impenetrable  by  shell,  thus  forming  a  secure 
retreat.  Air  and  some  light  enter  between  the  cross¬ 
beams.  These  bomb-proofs  are  of  various  sizes  and 
forms;  one  in  Fort  Wadswortli  is  about  150  feet  long 
and  some  12  feet  wide  inside.  Ammunition  magazines  are 
similarly  built.  Sometimes  the  eaith  walls  of  the  bomb 
proofs,  and  of  the  forts  themselves,  are  kept  perpendicu 
lar  by  means  of  bags,  or  baskets  of  earth,  or  by  fascines 
(bundles  of  long  rods,  or  slicks  bound  together).  Some 
of  tlie  forts  are  fine  specimens  of  military  workmanship, 
as  Fort  Fisher,  and  Forts  Wadsworth  and  Sedgwick. 

The  first  map  shows  the  general  position  of  the  lines 
last  July.  In  .\ugust  and  September,  Gen.  Grant  ad¬ 
vanced  his  lines  to  the  Weldon  Railro.ad,  and  secured  a 
second  line,  curving  in  north-west  at  Fort  Fisher 
towards  the  South-side  Railroad,  which  it  was  very  de¬ 
sirable  to  reach,  and  w  hich  was  so  strenuously  defended 
by  tlie  enemy.  (See  map  II.)  This  line  was  retained. 

The  most  interesting  points  to  be  examined  by  the 
transient  visitor,  are :  Fort  Gregg,  (rebel,)  Fort  Fisher 
and  the  lower  or  observatory  (150  feet  higli)  near  it.  Pop¬ 
lar  Grove  Church  Forts  Wadsworth,  Sedgwick  and 
Mahone,  the  Mine,  and  Foil  Steadman.  On  horseback, 
one  can  go  the  round  of  all  these  in  n  day,  following  the 
dotted  line  in  the  direction  of  the  arrows,  or  in  tlie  re¬ 
verse  order,  beginning  at  tlie  north-east.  But  two  or 
three  days  will  be  far  more  satisfactory.  I  will  sketch 
briefly  a  two-days  trip  by  a  parly  of  tliirteen  of  us— two 
ladies,  three  children  of  9  to  14  years,  with  four  men  be¬ 
sides  the  driver  all  in  a  large  covered  spring  wagon 
and  four  men  on  horseback.  Outfit:  a  box  of  eatables, 
a  jug  of  water  and  cup,  some  bags  for  holding  relics,  a 
large  hatchet,  and  field  glasses  to  aid  tli^  eyes,  brought 
from  home.  Clothing  and  shoes  adapted  to  rough  journey. 
Another  valuable  adjunct  w  as  a  package  of  Daily  Papers, 
selected  from  the  home  files,  containing  descriptions  at 
the  time,  of  movements  and  battles  occurring  at  the  var¬ 
ious  points  to  be  visited,  to  be  read  in  connection  with 
the  actual  examination  of  the  localities. 

First  Day's  Trip. — Starting  from  the  Jarratt  House 
westward,  then  deflecting  to  the  left,  we  passed  the  noi  tli 
side  of  the  rebel  hospitals,  as  shown  on  the  map,  and 
continued  west  M  to  mile,  until  a  short  turn  to  tlie  left 
(south)  took  us  nearly  to  Mr.  Green’s  house.  Then 
ttirning  to  the  right,  and  passing  by  the  negro  huts,  we 
continued  west  across  a  brook,  and  up  a  hill,  going  just 
south  of  Roger  A.  Prior’s  residence,  situated  in  tlie  grove 
of  trees  on  the  right.  Bending  to  the  south  south-west, 
we  followed  a  field  road  to  the  rebel  Fort  Gregg,  a  large 
prominent  fort  on  a  hill,  H  to  %  mile  from  Mr.  Prior's 
house.  All  along  the  route,  so  far,  and  indeed  all  the 
rest  of  the  way,  are  seen  rifle  pits,  breastworks,  etc.  On 
the  road  west  from  the  hospitals,  the  chimnies  in  the 
distance  (west)  indicate  where  Gen.  Lee's  headquarters 
were  before  the  buildings  were  burned  on  the  evacua¬ 
tion.  Before  reaching  Fort  Gregg,  we  see  on  the  left 
the  remains  of  a  large  dam,  built  to  overflow  the  Union 

camps,  some  distance  southward. - Fort  Greoo. 

There  are  two  forts  of  this  name,  one  Union  and  one 
Rebel.  The  hatter  is  a  point  of  great  interest.  Strong  as 
it  is,  it  was  assaulted  and  taken  by  storm  on  April  2nd. 
Standing  on  the  fort  and  looking  south-east,  we  see  the 
valley  through  which  the  heavy  assaulting  party  came 
up  amid  a  tempest  of  lead  and  iron.  The  many  Union 
graves  in  front,  and  the  mounds  of  rebel  dead  buried  in 
its  rear,  with  the  cannon  shot  and  bullet  holes  in  the 
palisades,  indicate  the  severity  of  the  siriiggle.  How 
flesh  and  blood  could  have  lived  throiigh'the  fire  of  can¬ 
non  and  musketry,  crossed  the  deep  ditch,  and  climbed 
Into  the  fort  we  stand  on,  it  is  almost  impossible  to 
conceive.  But  it  was  done,  and  this  was  one  of  the 
crowning  achievements  that  secured  the  evacuation 
of  Petersburg  and  Richmond.  One  will  not  soon  tire 
here,  looking  over  the  wide  fields  on  eve'iy  side,  and 
reading  the  description  of  the  assault.  Just  west  of  Fort 


I. — ^VICINITY  OF  RICHMOND  AND  PETERSBUKS. 


QOS 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[July, 


II. — OUTLINE  SKETCH  OF  THE  LOCATION  OF  THK  PRINCIPAL  WORKS  AROUND  PETERSBURG,  VA. 


Gregg  is  a  large  earthwork  called  Fort  Baldwin,  and  a 
heavy  battery  lies  a  little  east  of  Fort  Gregg.  Next,  go¬ 
ing  about  a  mile  to  the  south-southeast,  we  passed 
through  a  stumpy  road  and  crossed  the  outer  lines  and 
breastworks  of  the  two  opposing  armies,  and  thence  to 
a  farm  house,  upon  the  proprietor  of  which  we  called, 
and  had  a  lengthy  and  interesting  chat.  lie  remained 
here  all  throftgli  the  war,  and  from  him  we  learned 
many  particulars  of  events  of  which  he  had  been  an 
eye-witness.  From  the  high  ground  northeast  of  his 
house,  is,  to  us,  the  most  interesting  view  any  where 
to  be  seen — including  the  location  of  the  two  armies  from 
September  to  April,  many  miles  of  earthworks,  and  the 
scene  of  the  final  successful  strategetic  move  of  the  Union 
army.  Our  forces  had  for  six  months  held  this  line,  in¬ 
cluding  forts  Fisher,  Welch,  etc.,  south  of  us.  Frequent 
efforts  had  been  made  to  pass  around  to  the  left  and 
reach  the  Southside  railroad,  but  without  avail.  The 
last  week  in  March  a  heavy  force,  including  Gen.  Sheri¬ 
dan’s  cavalry  and  the  5th  Army  Corps,  made  a  detour 
to  the  south,  and  off  south-west  towards  Dinwiddle  Court 
House,  as  if  striking  for  Burkesville  or  some  nearer 
point  on  the  Southside  railroad.  To  oppose  these,  Gen. 
Lee  drew  out  a  large  number  of  his  forces  from  in  and 
around  Petersburg,  and  marched  them  westward.  This 
was  just  what  Gen.  Grant  desired.  When  they  were  far 
enough  off,  the  6lh  and  24tli  corps  dashed  through  from 
Fort  Fisher,  overcame  all  resistance,  and  reached  the 
railroad  a  mile  or  so  north-west  of  Fort  Gregg  (rebel). 
This  fort  and  others  near  it  were  captured,  and  the  ene¬ 
my’s  army  was  thus  cut  in  two.  This  is  indeed  the 
Waterloo  of  Ameiica,  compared  with  which  the  old 
Belgian  battle  field  shrinks  into  insignificance.  We  ad¬ 
vise  every  one  coming  lo  Petersburg,  to  visit  this  locality 
and  from  here,  and  from  Fort  Fisher  and  the  observ¬ 
atory  near  by,  study  the  whole  field. 

Remunerating  our  farmer  friend  for  his  time  we  were 
consuming,  and  taking  him  with  us  a  short  distance  as  a 
further  guide,  vve  next  went  ti  little  to  the  south-east 
to  Fort  Fisher,  which  is  one  of  the  finest  constructed 
works  to  he  seen  here,  though  hardly  so  large  as  Forts 
Wadsworth,  Sedgwick  and  Steadman.  From  the  top  of 
Fort  Fisher,  and  esiieciaily  from  the  observatory  near  it, 
150  feet  high,  one  has  a  grtind  view  of  the  fields  already 
described,  and  cati  take  in  at  a  glance  many  square  miles 
of  the  surrounding  country.  At  this  point  our  entire 
party  would  have  gone  home  well  satisfied  with  their 

long  journey  from  home,  if  no  more  w  as  to  be  seen. - Cut 

1  must  omit  details,  beyond  calling  attention  to  the  nu¬ 
merous  camp  huts  which  cover  the  country,  a  few  acres 
in  a  place,  for  miles  around.  Following  the  general 


course  indicated  by  the  dotted  line  on  the  map,  and  look¬ 
ing  at  the  fortifications  on  the  way,  we  next  went  to  the 
“  Poplar  Grove  Church,”  whose  steeple  can  be  seen  in 
a  grove  to  the  south-east.  This  Church,  and  the  sur¬ 
rounding  cabins — mansions  we  might  c.all  them — were 
constructed  by  the  50th  N.  Y.  Engineer  Regiment.  No¬ 
where,  in  this  country  or  in  Europe,  have  I  seen  rustic 
work  that  would  compare  with  what  is  to  be  seen  in  this 
camp,  and  in  the  hospital  camp  a  hundred  rods  or  so 
northwest.  Without  the  aid  of  engravings,  I  will  not 
attempt  to  describe  the  beautiful  arrangement  of  pine 
logs,  poles  and  twigs  in  the  attractive  structures.  Let  no 
one  coming  hither,  fail  to  see  them.  Said  a  traveling 
companion,  as  he  contrasted  these  camps  and  our  var¬ 
ious  forts  with  those  of  the  enemy,  “  it  is  no  wonder  our 
men  conquered.”-  The  old  Poplar  Grove  Church  in  the 
vicinity  having  been  burned  in  the  army  movements,  or 
by  the  enemy,  this  Church  was  presented  to  the  trus¬ 
tees  by  the  ingenious  builders  ;  otherwise  we  would  ad¬ 
vocate  its  removal  to  the  N.  Y.  Central  Park.  Some  of 
the  huts  or  dwellings  here  should  certainly  be  moved  to 
more  central  or  accesible  points,  as  monuments  of  the 
skill  of  our  “  thinking  bayonets.” 

Turning  from  the  Church  to  the  north-east,  we  next 
went  to  Fort  Wadsworth,  on  the  Weldon  Railroad,  an¬ 
other  point  of  much  interest.  Those  who  have  time  may 
well  go  Southward  to  Fort  Dushane,  and  still  further  to 
Reams’  Station,  and  south-west  along  Hatcher’s  Run, 
the  Five  Forks,  etc.  Those  positively  limited  for  time, 
and  not  too  wearied,  may  continue  eastward  along  the 
dotted  line,  to  Forts  Howard,  Alexander  Hayes,  Davis, 
Sedgwick,  Mahone,  etc.,  and  perhaps  finish  up  the  tour 
in  a  single  day,  though  it  is  too  much  for  most  visitors 
who  wish  to  get  a  full  conception  of  this  region.  Our 
ptirty  examined  forts  Howard  and  Hayes,  the  surrounding 
camps,  of  which  the  neatly  constructed  huts  are  still 
standing,  and  then  turned  up  the  Weldon  Railroad 
towards  Petersburg.  Passijjg  through  the  lines  of  abattis, 
the  skirmish  line  of  breastworks  and  rifle-pits,  between  the 
two  armies,  at  the  dist.ance  of  lii  miles  towards  the 
city  we  struck  and  examined  the  very  heavy  main  front 
line  of  the  enemy.  We  next  visited  the  “  lead  works” 
on  our  way  to  the  city,  and  reached  our  hotel  at7>i  P. 
M.,  most  of  the  party  wearied  out,  but  with  heads  and 
hearts  full.  Retiring  early,  a  good  night’s  sleep  put  us 
all  in  good  trim  for  the 

Second  Day's  Trip.— Starting  with  the  same  convey¬ 
ances  as  yesterday,  we  went  north-east  through  the  city, 
noting  on  the  way  the  effects  of  shells  upon  the  houses, 
and  took  the  Jerusalem  Plank  Road  to  the  top  of  “  Cem¬ 


etery  Hill,”  where  is  a  fine  bird’s-eye  view  of  the  works 
east  and  north-east  of  the  city.  A  short  distance  on,  we 
turned  to  the  left  and  visited  the  “Mine.”  Our  news¬ 
paper  description,  read  on  the  spot,  brought  vividly  to  the 
mind  and  eye  the  events  occuring  here  on  the  morning  of 
July  30th,  1864.  An  hour  spent  here,  and  over  at  the 
entrance  to  the  Mine,  we  returned  to  the  Jerusalem  Plank 
Road, and  went  south-east  to  Forts  Mahone  and  Sedgwick, 
noting  along  the  way  the  ditches  and  traverses  through 
which  troops  and  supplies  from  Petersburg  reached  the 
advanced  lines  of  the  enemy,  through  the  high  ground,  or 
passed  from  one  earthwork  to  another.  Forts  Mahone 
(“Damnation”)  and  Sedgwick  (“Hell”)  are  very  near 
each  other,  and  are  both  on  high  ground.  More  men 
were  daily  killed  and  wounded  at  these  forts,  than  at 
any  other  points  on  the  lines.  They  were  fighting  almost 
constantly  for  months.  To  expose  one’s  person  here¬ 
abouts  was  almost  certain  death.  The  picket-lines 
between  these  forts,  guarded  by  heavy  breastworks, 
were  so  near  that  the  men  could  talk  familiarly  together 
from  behind  their  covers.  There  is  more  digging  of  the 
earth  into  pits,  ditches,  etc.,  at  this  part  of  the  lines,  than 
at  any  other.  Passing  on  south-east  to  Fort  Davis,  we 
turned  north,  followed  the  line  of  Union  fortifications, 
looking  into  Forts  Rice,  Mickle,  Morton,  and  Haskill, 
and  entered  Fort  Steadman.  The  taking  of  this  by  the 
enemy  last  March,  and  the  speedy  recovery  of  it,  are 
doubtless  well  remembered  by  every  reader.  The  bullet 
and  cannon  ball  and  shell  marks  on  almost  every  square 
foot  of  the  trees,  from  bottom  to  top,  on  every  side,  show 
plainly  the  fierceness  of  the  conflict  here,  but  I  can  not 
spare  room  for  description.  Passing  on  to  Fort  Mc- 
Gilvery,  and  back  .again  to  the  main  road  from  City  Point, 
we  entered  Petersburg  from  the  north-east  side,  and  had  a 
fresh  view  of  the  shell  scarred  and  pierced  houses.  Every 
rod  of  the  route  we  have  taken,  perhaps  15  to  20  miles  in 
the  two  days,  is  full  of  interest.  No  other  field  of  strife 
so  extensive,  and  so  varied,  has  ever  been  seen  in  this 
country,  or  in  any  other,  and  we  trust  never  will  be.  Now, 
no  enemies,  no  bushwhackers,  and  no  restrictions  upon 
travel  are  anywhere  to  be  met  with,  in  or  around  Peters¬ 
burg  or  Richmond. - We  have  not  space  to  describe  the 

intensely  interesting  scenes  for  forty  miles  down  the 
James  River,  from  Richmond  to  City  Point,  a  trip  alone 
worth  the  whole  journey  from  New  York.  Richmond  jt- 
self  is  a  desolation,  with  its  miles  of  falling  walls  and 
chimneys  in  the  burned  district,  comprising  the  chief 
business  portion.  On  our  way  here,  we  visited  sundry 
points  in  that  city,  including  the  hospitals,  “JefPs  House,” 
Belle  Isle,  the  Tredegar  Works,  Caslle  Thunder,  and 
especially  Libby  Prison,  from  which  I  have  .as  relics,  a 
brick  from  the  wall  where  the  prisoners  escaped,  and  a 
piece  of  the  table  in  the  cell  where  Hon.  Mr.  Ely.  Capt. 
Fraser,  and  other  officers  were  confined.  These  will  be 
put  upon  the  exhibition  table  at  the  Agriculturist  o&ce, 
for  the  curious  to  look  at. 

ISoutes  to  Ricliinond  and  Petersbui-jg.— 

From  New  York,  there  is  a  line  of  large  steamers.  Sidling 
on  Wednesdays  and  Saturdays,  direct  to  Richmond — the 
Yazoo  and  Creole.  Fare,  inclinling  state-room  and 
meals,  is  now  $15.  This  route  gives  one  a  taste  of  the 
Atlantic  Ocean.  A  belter  route,  perhaps,  is  to  go  to 
Baltimore,  and  take  the  “  New  Line  ”  of  steamers — Leary 
and  Brady.  These  leave  Baltimore  at  6  P.  M.  daily,  land 
you  at  Fortress  Monroe  at  about  5  or  6  A.  M.  the  next 
morning,  whence  you  have  a  pleasant  day’s  ride  up  the 
James  River,  seeing  the  Rip-Raps,  Newport  News,  the 
scene  of  the  Merrimack  and  Monitor  conflict,  and  also 
passing  Jamestown  Island,  where  the  first  settlement  in 
Virginia  was  made.  The  village  of  Jamestown  is  burned, 
but  the  standing  chimneys  indicate  its  former  site.  The 
square  brick  tower  or  diminutive  church  on  the  upper 
end  of  the  island,  shows  the  spot  where  Pocahontas  saved 
John  Smith’s  life.  You  also  pass  Harrison’s  Landing, 
memorable  as  the  base  of  the  Union  army  under  Mc¬ 
Clellan  in  1862.  Returning  by  this  route,  you  leave  Rich 
mond  at  6  A.  M.,  arriving  at  Fortress  Monroe  at  2  or  3  P. 
M.,  and  have  2  or  3  hours  to  loiter  around  the  fortress, 
before  taking  the  Hi  o’clock  steamer,  which  lands  you 
at  Baltimore  at  daylight  next  morning.  Through  fare 
between  Baltimore  and  Richmond  is  now  $3.00,  not  in¬ 
cluding  meals  and  berth  or  state-room.  Fare  between 
New  York  and  Baltimore,  $6.55.  One  can  leave  the 
boat  at  City  Point,  and  for  50  cents  goto  Petersburg  by 
R.  R.,  and  then  to  Richmond  by  R.  R.,  for  $1.00,  or  go 
around  the  other  way.  The  railroad  will  probably  be 
opened  ere  long  direct  from  Washington  to  Richmond, 
taking  one  through  the  interesting  scenes  at  Fredericks¬ 
burg,  the  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania  Court  House,  etc. 
The  present  hotel  charges  in  Richmond  and  Petersburg 
are  $4.00  per  day.  The  weather  is  becoming  hot  for 
tr.avel  now,  except  to  the  strong  and  vigorous  t  though 
with  care  in  diet  and  drink,  our  party  have  had  no  trouble 
as  to  health.  Every  one  journeying  southward  at  this 
season  of  the  year,  should  carry  a  bottle  of  prepared 
blackberry  root  decoction,  (described  on  page  266')  or  at 
least  some  extric'  of  ginger.  Oil  A  NO  E  JUDD. 


18G5.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


909 


destroy  the  insects  which  are 
such  nuisances  upon  our  sliade 
trees.  They  did  not  stay  when*- 
they  were,  but  drifted  acros 
the  Hudson,  and  toolc  up  thei 
abode  (at  least  some  of  them 
did)  in  Jersey  City  and  Hobolccn, 
where  they  are  now  quite  nu 
morons  in  some  parts  of  tliesc 
cities.  The  prejudice  against 
them  is  probably  unfounded,  at 
least  if  their  great  destruction 
of  insects  be  taken  into  account. 
They  are  lively,  chattering  crea¬ 
tures,  very  active,  somewhat 
larger  than  our  ground  spar¬ 
row,  and  daricer  colored.  They 
have  little  or  no  beauty,  and  no 
agreeable  song,  but  stay  with 
us  all  winter. 

Raising’  Turnips,  on  Heavy 
Soils  and  Stumpy  Grounds. 

On  some  soils  and  exposures 
large  crops  of  excellent  turnips 
may  be  raised  with  little  labor, 
while  in  many  other  places 
much  labor  and  manure  are  es¬ 
sential  to  produce  evcui  a  small 
crop  of  mil}'  fail'  (piality.  On 
some  soils  turnip  secul  may  l>e 
sowed  broadcast  afier  a  crop  ol 
barley  or  oats  has  been  icuha'- 
ed  ;  and  the  yield  will  ’oe  four 


The  Red  'Eo%.—{Vulpesfulms.) 


We  give  here  an  engraving  of  one  of  the  great¬ 
est  nuisances  to  farmers  living  in  the  vicinity  of 
lodges,  in  which  a  fox  can  readily  burrow  in  the 
rocky  debris.  The  nocturnal  depredations  of  a 
pair  of  old  foxes,  who  have  their  young  to  pro¬ 
vide  for,  will  often  extend  over  an  area  of  several 
square  miles,  and  so  sly  are  they,  and  so  well 
do  they  cover  their  retreat,  that  it  is  very  diffi¬ 
cult  to  find  where  any  particular  fox  has  his 
hole.  These  animals  secrete  a  powerful  odor 
which  is  in  a  gland  near  the  base  of  the  tail, 
and  the  odor  being  diffused  more  or  less  where- 
ever  they  go,  it  is  very  easy  for  dogs  to  track 
them ;  but  wary  and  fleet,  they  usually  succeed 
in  baffling  their  pursuers,  leading  them  a  long 
chase,  and  getting  away  at  last.  Wherever 
met,  the  fox  is  an  enemy,  and  is  killed  if  possi¬ 
ble,  yet  they  abound  in  well-peopled  districts 
both  of  this  country  and  Europe.  They  will 
eat  fruit,  and  small  animals  which  they  kill 
themselves,  not  unfrequently  killing  lambs  sev¬ 
eral  weeks  old.  They  eat  also  fresh  meat,  pro¬ 
vided  it  has  no  scent  of  man  upon  it.  By  means, 
therefore,  of  poisoned  meat,  it  is  often  practica- 
Dle  to  destroy  them.  Those  who  are  most  suc¬ 
cessful  use  strychnine,  which  they  insert  in 
small  quantities  by  means  of  a  quill,  in  many 
places  in  a  fowl  or  small  animal  of  some  kind, 
handling  it  with  gloves,  which  are  sometimes 
scented  with  oil  of  Rhodium,  a  flavor  of  which 
most  animals  are  very  fond.  Such  poisoned 
meat  is  of  course  equally  deadly  to  dogs  and 
cats  as  to  foxes,  and  some  family  pets  might 
thus  be  sacrificed,  unless  care  were  taken  so  to 
luspend  it  that  it  shall  fall  in  the  way  of  foxes 
only.  There  are  statements,  which  we  deem 
reliable,  of  stryehnine  having  been  used  with 
excellent  effect  in  protecting  sheep  from  other 
canine  animals  besides  foxes  and  wolves.  And 
if  any  of  our  readers  thinks  he  would  rather 
.ose  a  few  sheep  than  poison  any  neighbor’s 
dog,  which  might  visit  his  sheep  pasture.s,  we 


warn  him  that  strychnine  is  surer  death  than 
even  lead  to  any  dogs  that  may  swallow  it. 


European  Sparrows  in  America. 

Every  one  who  has  visited  Europe  may  have 
noticed  the  sparrows  whieh  are  so  abundant  in 
the  cities  and  villages.  They  live  upon  insects, 
bits  of  oflal  of  various  kinds,  grain,  crumbs,  etc., 
being  regular  scavengers,  and,  especially  in 
breeding  time,  consume  immense  numbers  of 
insects,  which  are  said  to  be  the  chief  food  of  the 
young  birds — though  the  appetites  of  old  birds 
crave  a  greater  varietj'  of  food.  In  some  parts 


EUIiOPEA.N  Sl’AKKOWS. 

of  England  there  exists  a  prejudice  against  the 
sparrows,  because,  like  the  other  finches  (for 
they  belong  to  the  finch  family),  Ihc}*  eat  grain, 
and  a  price  is  set  upon  their  heads.  Some  few 
j^ears  since,  quite  a  large  number  of  these  birds 
were  imported  and  set  loose  in  the  Central 
Park,  with  the  anticipation  that  they  would 
multiply  and  make  themselves  at  home  in  this 
cit}',  where  we  so  greatly  need  something  to 


or  five  hundred  bushels  or  even  ninre  pm-  acre, 
having  but  little  or  no  cullivalion  or  weeding. 
On  other  farms,  where  the  soil  will  yiehl  oO 
bushels  of  barley,  70  of  oats,  or  25  oi-  00  bushels 
of  wheat,  a  fixrmer  might  despair  of  prodn  -ing 
a  crop  of  turnips  that  would  half  pay  the  ex¬ 
pense  of  cultivation,  after  one  of  these  crops  ot 
cereals  has  been  removed.  Ill  adaptation  of 
the  soil  to  turnips  is  one  chief  difficulty  ;  an¬ 
other  is  the  turnip  fly.  To  guard  against  the 
ravages  of  these  insects,  through  some  sections 
(as  in  Central  New-York)  it  is  customary  to  sow 
the  seed  more  than  twenty  times  as  thick  as 
necessary ;  and  then,  as  soon  as  the  turnips 
appear  in  seed  leaf, 
scatter  dry  ashes  over 
them  with  a  fine 
sieve.  Most  of  the 
thimiing  is  done  with 
a  broad  hoe,  as  soon 
as  they  are  large 
enough,  and  out  of 
danger.  This  is  done 
in  the  heat  of  the 
ilu}-,  as  the  plants 
that  are  rooted  up 
will  die  readily.  The 
hoe  is  drawn  across 
the  drills,  leaving 
groups  about  10  inch¬ 
es  apart.  The  thin¬ 
ning  is  then  finished 
by  hand,  leaving  the 
best  plant  in  the 
group  standing.Those 
that  are  pulled  up,  are  placed  around  the  stand¬ 
ing  ones,  and  operate  as  a  mulch  to  keep  the 
soil  moist.  We  have  found  that  after  turnips 
foi'in  six  or  eight  leaves,  and  arc  as  large  as 
the  little  finger,  the  occasional  a]>plication  ot 
weak  liquid  manure,  after  sundown,  is  produc¬ 
tive  of  excellent  results.  It  is  sometimes  desir¬ 
able  during  this  month,  to  sow  turnip  seed  on 
“slashing”  or  new  ground  that  cannot  be 


210 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


plowed  on  account  of  roots.  Remove  the  logs 
and  burn  over  the  entire  ground  if  possible, 
between  the  20th  and  30lh  of  the  month.  If 
there  are  any  grass  plots,  sheep  may  be  confined 
in  the  field,  until  they  have  gnawed  every  green 
thing  close  to  the  ground.  The  manure  thus 
left  operates  as  a  good  top-dressing.  It  is  said 
also,  that  this  preparation  with  sheep  is  a  per¬ 
fect  preventive  of  the  turnip  fly.  Be  this  as  it 
may,  the  turnip  fly  has  never  injured  our  tur¬ 
nips  after  sheep  had  been  confined  for  several 
da5^s  on  the  ground.  The  seed  is  then  sowed 
and  the  ground  harrowed  eight  or  ten  times,  if 
it  had  not  been  plowed.  If  mellow  earth  can 
be  obtained  without  so  much  harrowing,  the 
seed  is  bushed  in.  Plots  of  weeds,  thistles  and 
grass  may  be  grubbed  up  with  hoes.  By  these 
means  pretty  good  turnips  can  always  be  raised 
on  lieavy  soils,  and  on  stumpy  land. 

How  Long  to  Make  Plow  Beams. 

While  there  are  various  ways  among  some  man¬ 
ufacturers  of  plows,  for  determining  the  correct 
length  of  a  beam,  many  plow  makers  have  no 
regular  rule  for  fi.ving  its  length,  and  so 
every  beam  is  made  “  by  guess.”  If  a  beam 
looks  too  long,  it  is  cut  off.  There  is  a  correct 
length  for  every  plow  beam,  and  if  that  length 
be  inereased,  or  diminished,  the  draft,  or  “  bal¬ 
ance”  of  the  plow  will  be  incorrect.  We  have 
ever  maintained,  that  if  a  plow  is  constructed 
on  correct  philosophical  and  mathematical 
principles,  with  the  beam  of  the  right  length,* 
and  the  draught  properly  adjusted  at  the  clevis, 
it  will  run  without  holding  and  plow  well, 
unless  some  obstruction  throws  it  out.  We  have 
made  inquiry  of  manufacturers  for  more  than 
twenty  years,  concerning  the  correct  length  for 
plow  beams,  and  found  it  all  guess  work  in 
every  instance  but  the  following.  Solomon 
Slead,  New  Haven,  Ct.,  communicates  to  us  a 
rule  which  he  has  adopted  in  determining  the 
length  of  beams,  for  his  conical-mold-board 
plows.  In  order  to  put  this  principle  to  a  cor¬ 
rect  test,  we  visited  his  farm  and  had  his  No.  6 
adjusted  to  run  about  5  or  6  inches  deep,  and  to 
cut  10  or  11  inches  in  width.  The  draught  ring 
was  fixed  in  the  middle  of  the  end  of  the  beam. 
Having  adjusted  it  as  nearly  rightas  practicable 
we  let  it  run  alone,  and  plowed  around  the 
land  some  six  or  eight  times  in  succession, 
without  touching  either  of  the  handles,  except 
at  the  ends  of  the  land,  in  turning  out  and  set¬ 
ting  in.  As  the  princii)le  is  not  covered  by  a 
patent  any  one  may  adopt  it. 

This  is  the  rule:  Hold  one  end  of  a  ten-foot 
pole,  with  no  sag  in  it,  on  the  share  or  mold 
board,  at  the  supposed  centre  of  resistance,  a 
point  about  2  inches  higher  than  the  sole 
of  the  plow,  and  elevate  the  other  end  4  feet 
and  2  inches — about  the  height  of  a  horse’s 
shoulders.  If  the  beam  is  .of  correct  length, 
a  produced  horizontal  line  (say  the  edge  of  a 
2-foot  rule)  crossing  the  end  of  the  beam  in  the 
middle  will  touch  the  edge  of  the  pole.  If 
the  length  of  the  beam  be  inere.ased,  the  forward 
end  must  be  elevated,  in  order  to  be  in  the  cor¬ 
rect  line  of  draught.  When  a  plow  is  properly 
balaneed,  it  will  run  as  straight  as  the  team 
travels,  without  holding.  But  when  it  turns 
quickly  aside,  either  to  the  right  or  left,  and 
the  plowman  is  required  to  hold  it  constantly 
in  position,  it  is  a  certain  evidence  that  there  is 
an  imperfeetion  in  the  mechanical  construction 
of  some  part  of  the  plow,  or  it  is  incorrectly 
adjusted  as  to  the  clevis,  guage  wheel,  length 
of  traces,  or  draught  chain. 


Best  Form  for  Kake  Teeth. 


The  illustrations  of  rake  teeth  here  presented 
show  the  manner  of  making  both  iron  teeth 
and  wooden  ones.  Iron  ones,  (A,)  are  made  of 
wire  about  ’[is  of  an  inch  in  diameter,  6  or? 
inches  long,  with  a  thread  cut  on  about  1  inch 
of  the  end  that  screws  into  the  rake  head.  The 
ordinary  round,  wooden  teeth  in  hand  rakes  are 
too  short,  both  for  raking  hay  and  grain.  When 
teeth  are  too  short,  it  becomes  necessary  to 
press  down  very  hard  on  the  handle,  or  the 
rake  will  fill  with  a  small  quantity  and  slip 
over.  This  is  particularly  true  when  raking 
and  binding  gi’ain.  If  the  teeth  are  7  or  8 
inches  long,  a  man  can  rake  very  much  easier 
and  faster  than 

A 


when  they  are  on¬ 
ly  3  or  4  inches 
long.  For  raking 
grain,  the  writer 


has  been  accustomed  to  cut  off  the  wooden  teeth 
of  common  hand  rakes,  and  bore  holes  in  the 
tenons  of  the  wooden  teeth  just  large  enough  to 
receive  the  iron  teeth,  when  screwed  in  so  firmly 
as  not  to  split  ihe  head.  The  holes  should  be 
bored  true,  and  the  teeth  put  in  with  a  pair  of 
strong  pliers.  Such  teeth  in  a  good  head  make 
an  excellent  rake.  A  veiy  desirable  form  is 
shown  at  B,  for  wooden  teeth  for  a  buck  rake, 
as  well  as  for  horse  rakes.  The  tenon  is 
square  half  its  length,  and  the  other  half  at  the 
end  is  made  round.  A  thin  piece  is  left  paral¬ 
lel  to  the  tenon  to  fit  closely  to  the  outside  of 
the  rake  head,  and  a  wmod  screw  or  nail  fastens 
it  securely  to  the  head.  This  is  a  veiy  strong 
way  of  securing  rake  teeth.  The  points  should 
always  be  sharpened,  like  the  figure,  on  the 
under  side,  so  that  they  will  run  out  of  the 
ground  instead  of  into  it. 


How  to  Cultivate  Hoed  Crops. 


The  aim  should  always  be  to  dig  or  tear  up 
as  much  grass  and  weeds  as  possible,  and  pul¬ 
verize  and  stir  all  the  soil  between  the  rows  at 
least  two  or  three  inehes  deep.  In  order  to  do 
this  effectually,  the  teeth  of  the  cultivator  should 
be  adjusted  to  run  between  the  rows  in  the 
narrowest  places,  without  disturbing  the  grow¬ 
ing  plants.  The  handles  of  the  cultivator  should 
extend  back  of  it  sufficiently  far  to  enable  the 
man  holding  it  to  see  distinctly  whether  the  last 
tooth,  as  it  passes  the  hills,  does  not  cover  or 
cut  them  up.  Thus  he  may  run  the  implement 
so  closely  to  every  hill  along  one  row,  that  very 
little  labor  will  be  required  with  hand  hoes. 
When  he  returns  between  the  same  rows,  the 
cultivator  should  be  run  as  close  as  practicable 
to  the  next  row. 

It  is  essential  in  using  any  kind  of  a  cul¬ 
tivator,  that  the  horse  be  well  guided.  If  he 
go  in  the  right  plaee,  it  will  be  easy  to  hold 
the  cultivator  so  as  to  perform  the  work  well, 
but  otherwise  the  work  will  be  done  in  such 
a  manner,  as  to  require  much  hand  hoeing. 
Where  the  ground  is  not  strong  or  lumpy,  if  a 
man  be  a  good  driver,  he  may  run  the  rear 
teeth  of  a  cultivator  so  closely  to  the  rows  of 
Indian  corn,  sorghum,  broom  corn,  beans,  etc., 
that  mellow  earth  will  be  turned  just  up  to 
the  plants,  completely  covering  all  small  weeds 
and  grass.  When  cultivated  in  this  manner, 
unless  there  are  many  large  weeds  to  cut  up, 
two  hands  will  do  the  hoeing  well,  as  fast  as 
one  can  run  the  cultivator.  When  the  imple¬ 
ment  goes  jumping  and  skipping  along,  while 
the  horse  is  two  or  more  feet  from  the  orooer 


[JirLY, 


place,  it  will  require  four  or  five  faithful  labor 
ers  to  hoe  as  fast  as  one  man  can  cultivate.  In 
order  to  do  this  work  well,  the  teeth  should 
always  be  kept  sharp  and  bright,  so  that  the  eartli 
will  slip  from  them  freely.  When  the  surface  of 
the  teeth  is  covered  with  much  rust,  they  should 
be  polished  on  tlie  grindstone,  and  oiled  to 
prevent  rusting,  if  to  stand  idle  for  a  day  or 
two.  This  will  always  save  time  and  labor. 
- »—  - - - 

What  is  “  One-Horse  Power?” 

The  use  of  the  term  “horse  power”  is  very 
common,  yet  few,  except  good  mechanics  and 
engineers,  attach  a  definite  meaning  to  it,  but 
regard  it  as  indicating  looselj’,  about  the  jiower 
which  one  horse  would  exert.  It  is,  however, 
when  used  in  the  sense  under  consideration,  a? 
definite  as  possible,  and  means  the  power  re¬ 
quired  to  lift  33,000  pounds  avoirdupois  one 
foot  high  in  one  minute. 

A  horse  hitched  to  the  end  of  a  rope  over  a 
pully  one  foot  in  diameter  placed  over  a  deeji 
well,  traveling  at  the  rate  of  about  2)  miles  per 
hour,  or  220  feet  per  minute,  will  draw  up  150 
pounds  the  same  distance  he  travels.  The  force 
thus  exerted  is  called  in  mechanics,  a  “  horse 
power,”  it  being  an  approximation  to  the  aver¬ 
age  amount  of  continuous  power  it  is  fair  to 
demand  of  a  strong  horse.  If  we  multiply  the 
weight  raised  (150  pounds)  by  the  number  of 
feet  it  was  moved  per  minute  (220),  the  product 
will  be  the  number  of  pounds  which  the  same 
power  would  raise  only  one  foot  high  in  the 
same  length  of  time,  (33,000  pounds.) 

The  dynamometer  is  an  instrument  made  for 
measuring  power,  partieularly  that  exerted  in 
drawing.  Those  used  for  testing  the  draft  of 
agricultural  implements  are  simply  very  strong 
spring  balances,  or  spring  steelj'ards,  gradua¬ 
ted  to  indicate  the  power  required  to  raise  any 
weight,  within  reasonable  limit,  at  the  rate  of 
21  miles  per  hour.  When  we  apply  the  dy- 
namometer,in  ascertaining  the  draft  of  maehines, 
if  the  index  indicates  150  pounds,  it  is  shown 
that  the  horse  is  required  to  draw  just  as  hard 
as  he  would  do,  if  raising  150  pounds  out  of  a 
well  with  a  rope  over  a  pulley  one  foot  in 
diameter,  at  the  rate  of  2^  miles  per  hour,  and 
so  for  other  weights. 

The  velocity  at  which  a  team  moves  is  to  be 
considered,  as  well  as  the  weight  to  be  raised,  or 
the  load  to  be  drawn.  If  a  horse  travels  faster 
than  2h  miles  per  hour,  while  raising  150 
pounds  out  of  a  well,  he  exerts  more  than  one- 
horse  power.  If  lie  walks  slower  than  this,  he 
does  not  exert  a  force  equal  to  one-horse  power. 

In  ascertaining  the  draught  of  a  plow,  or 
reaper  and  mower,  by  driving  faster  than  2i 
miles  per  hour,  the  dynamometer  would  indi¬ 
cate  more  than  the  correct  draught;  and  by- 
driving  slower,  the  draught  -would  appear  to 
be  less  than  it  really  is.  In  testing  the  draught 
of  machines  a  team  should  always  move  at  the 
rate  of  2^  miles  per  hour,  or  220  feet  per  min¬ 
ute,  which  is  the  universally  accepted  rate  with 
reference  to  which  dynamometers  are  gradua¬ 
ted,  and  an  easy  one  to  which  to  approximate 
in  driving  with  almost  any  kind  of  team. 

Many  people  have  supposed  that  300  pounds 
— two-horse  power — represented  the  same  force 
that  a  team  would  exert,  when  dragging  300 
pounds  along  on  the  ground.  A  horse  can  haul 
GOO  pounds  on  the  hard  ground,  with  ease ;  but 
he  could  not  draw  hard  enough  on  the  dynam¬ 
ometer  to  mark  more  than  250  to  300  pounds, 
except  for  a  few  minutes.  The  power  of  a 
man  is  estimated  at  one-fifth  of  a  horse  power 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Sharp  Mowing-Machine  Knives. 

Tlie  cutting  edge  of  all  kinds  of  knives  is 
composed  of  numerous  small  saw-tooth  like 
scratches  made  by  the  file,  grindstone  or  whet¬ 
stone.  The  same  exists  on  the  edge  of  a  razor, 
hut  there  they  are  exceedingly  fine.  The  cutting 
edge  of  a  grain  sickle  consists  of  very  fine  teeth 
made  as  a  file  is  cut,  with  a  sharp  cold  chisel, 
cutting  creases  sloping  obliquely  backward  on 
the  under  side  of  the  blade,  extending  quite  to 
the  edge.  When  the  serratures  thus  formed 
become  battered,  or  bent  over,  the  tool  is  dull ; 
but  so  long  as  they  are  kept  sharp-pointed  and 
erect,  which  is  done  by  grinding  on  the  smooth 
side,  the  edge  is  sharp. 

For  cutting  straw,  hay,  or  cornstalks,  when 
knives  are  worked  with  a  drawing  stroke,  they 
are  usually  most  effective  if  their  cutting  edges 
are  made  of  coarse  serratures,  as  when  ground 
on  a  rather  coarse  stone.  On  the  contrary, 
when  knives  operate  with  a  direct  stroke,  the 
finer  the  edges  are  ground,  the  easier  they  will 
cut.  This  is  particularly  truepf  knives  of  mow¬ 
ing  machines.  If  ground  to  an  edge  on  a  stone 
of  fine  grit,  and  then  whetted  with  a  fine  whet¬ 
stone,  even  the  momentum  of  the  cam  which 
works  the  laiives  will  be  almost  sufilcient  to  cut 
an  even  swath  through  heavy  grass.  Where 
the  ground  is  smooth  and  hard,  and  the  grass 
not  very  thick  at  the  bottom,  and  the  knives  of 
a  mower  are  sharpened  with  a  fine-gritted  whet¬ 
stone,  no  difference  can  be  perceived  in  the  ex¬ 
ertion  of  the  team,  whether  the  mower  cuts  a 
full  swath,  half  of  one,  or  none  at  all.  Dull 
knives,  however,  or  those  having  a  coarse  edge, 
will  require  sometimes  tvnce  as  much  power  to 
mow  heavy  grass,  as  if  they  had  been  put  in 
order  with  a  fine  whetstone.  Knives  of  mow¬ 
ing  machines  are  often  filed  to  an  edge.  If 
they  were  operated  with  a  drawing  stroke,  they 
would  cut  grain  better  than  if  sharpened  with  a 
fine  stone.  But,  as  the  cut  is  a  direct  or  crush¬ 
ing  one,  they  should  always  be  rubbed  after 
filing,  with  a  fine  stone.  Great  efficiency  in 
such  knives  depends  almost  entirely  on  the  per¬ 
fection  of  the  cutting  edge. 

- -  ■  mrnm-  - - - 

Suggestions  about  Summer  Fallows. 


A  few  years  ago,  most  farmers  in  our  wheat¬ 
growing  regions,  thought  that  in  order  to  raise 
a  good  crop  of  winter  wheat,  the  ground  must 
be  well  summer  fallowed.  The  ground  was 
plowed  usually  about  the  first  of  June,  and  then 
harrowed  and  plowed  alternately  until  Septem¬ 
ber.  In  some  instances,  it  was  plowed  six,  but 
usually  three  times  ;  and  those  who  did  so,  fan¬ 
cied  that  they  received  ample  remuneration  in 
an  increased  amount  of  grain  for  every  addition¬ 
al  plowing.  But,  when  the  ground  was  broken 
up  late  in  June,  or  the  former  part  of  July,  and 
plowed  only  twice,  as  a  small  number  of  culti¬ 
vators  were  accustomed  to  do,  the  work  was 
pronounced  as  “  only  half  done and  the  dif¬ 
ference  between  the  crops  where  the  soil  was 
plowed  five  or  six  times  and  only  twice,  would 
often  justify  such  a  remark.  Thus  it  will  be 
perceived,  that  the  soil  yielded  only  one  crop  in 
two  years,  or  as  it  was  then  termed,  “  two  crops 
in  three  years,”  as  oats,  or  Indian  com,  follotv- 
ed  by  wheat,  and  then  a  summer  fallow,  or 
grass.  In  some  instances,  three  crops  of  win¬ 
ter  wheat  were  raised  in  succession.  As  only  a 
limited  quantity  of  manure  of  a  very  inferior 
quality  was  made,  summer  fallowing  seemed  to 
be  essential  to  the  wheat  crop.  There  was  not 
that  demand  for  pork,  beef  and  mutton  that  now 


exists.  Consequently,  only  a  small  portion  of 
the  coarse  grain  of  the  farm  furnished  any  fer¬ 
tilizing  matter  by  making  manure  while  fatten¬ 
ing  stock.  The  great  bulk  of  the  manure  was 
of  a  strawy  character,  and  only  increased  the 
already  too  large  growth  of  straw.  There  was 
but  little  grain-producing  material  in  it.  The 
good  effects  of  summer  fallowing  began  to  fail. 
The  straw  was  often  large  enough  to  yield  forty 
or  fifty  bushels  of  excellent  wheat  per  acre ; 
while  there  would  sometimes  be  not  more  than 
ten  or  twelve.  Every  year  the  heads  were  grow¬ 
ing  lighter  and  shorter,  and  the  kernels  small¬ 
er  and  smaller.  Consequently  those  who  were 
accustomed  to  rely  on  the  wheat  crop  for  their 
revenue,  were  in  a  grievous  dilemma.  This  was 
clean  farming,  but  low  culture;  while  scientific, 
progressive  agriculture  requires  high  cultivation 
and  fertilization  in  close  connection  with  clean 
farming.  This  is  the  certain  tendency  of  sum¬ 
mer  fallowing.  It  is  good  for  wheat,  temporar¬ 
ily  ;  but  bad  for  the  farm,  and  worse  still  for 
the  farmer,  permanently.  Summer  fallowing 
in  the  way  alluded  to,  will  produce  a  greater 
yield  of  wheat,  for  a  year  or  two,  than  any  oth¬ 
er  system  of  management;  but,  at  the  same 
time,  the  productiveness  of  the  soil  will  be  im¬ 
paired  in  a  greater  degree  than  by  some  other 
system  of  management,  which  will  always  keep 
the  soil  good,  and  at  the  same  time,  produce 
remunerating  crops  from  year  to  year. 

- - - - - 

Prevention  of  the  Hoove. 


When  neat  cattle  and  sheep  eat  too  much  red 
clover,  their  stomachs  soon  become  so  much 
inflated  with  gas,  that  without  immediate  re¬ 
lief  they  often  die  in  a  few  hours.  We  have 
known  neat  cattle  to  be  hoven  and  die,  in  defi¬ 
ance  of  all  efforts  to  save  them,  even  after  they 
had  been  grazing  in  a  clover  field  more  than 
two  weeks.  Where  they  can  have  access  to 
other  grass,  they  will  seldom  eat  enough  clover 
to  make  them  bloat ;  but,  as  soon  as  they  are 
required  to  subsist  entirely  on  red  clover,  unless 
they  have  free  access  to  an  abundance  of  salt, 
there  is  great  danger  that  they  will  eat  too 
much.  We  have  always  been  accustomed  to 
keep  salt  in  a  tub  in  the  field,  where  the  stock 
were  grazing  on  red  clover;  and  the  animals 
would  eat  freely  of  it  many  times  a  day ;  and 
we  never  had  an  animal  affected  with  the  hoove, 
as  long  as  the  salt  tub  contained  a  good  supply. 


Check  Reins  for  Draught  Horses. 


The  head  and  neck  of  a  horse  assist  in  bal¬ 
ancing  his  body,  when  not  restrained  by  a  taut 
check  rein ;  just  as  the  arms  of  a  man  enable 
him  to  walk  with  more  ease  when  they  are  un¬ 
confined.  When  a  check  rein  is  so  short  as  to 
hold  the  head  of  a  horse  higher  than  he  is  ac¬ 
customed  to  carry  it,  it  is  impossible  for  him  to 
travel  or  draw  easily.  A  man  can  walk  or  run 
much  more  advantageously  with  his  arms  free, 
and  his  head  and  shoulders  thrown  a  little  for¬ 
ward,  because  they  are  important  balances  for 
his  body.  If  draught  horses  have  check  reins, 
they  should  always  be  unhitched  when  they  are 
hauling  a  heavy  draft,  especially  up  hill.  If  one 
watches  the  movements  of  a  horse’s  head  when 
he  slips  on  ice,  or  a  pavement,  he  will  soon  be 
satisfied  that  draught  horses  should  not  be 
checked  up  much.  Carriage  horses  may  be  made 
to  hold  their  heads  high ;  but  those  which  have 
hard  pulling  should  be  allowed  to  do  it  in  the 
easiest  manner,  with  their  heads  held  naturally. 


ail 


Hay  Cured  without  Drying. 


SUGGESTIONS  FOR  EXPERIMENTS. 

With  US  all  it  is  a  great  object  to  make  hay 
of  good  quality  with  little  laborv  We  all  have 
our  notions  and  prejudices,  some  well  formed 
and  others  simply  prejudices.  The  Agricul¬ 
tural  papers  have  of  late  contained  several  arti¬ 
cles  on  curing  hay  with  very  little  drying, 
packing  it  away  so  as  to  exclude  all  the  air 
possible,  and  have  given  statements  of  the 
great  excellence  of  the  cattle  feed  thus  prepar¬ 
ed.  When  vegetable  substances  containing  as 
considerable  a  proportion  of  water  as  recently 
cut  grass  does,  ‘are  closely  packed  and  left  to 
themselves,  they  will  ferment.  The  result  of 
the  fermentation  is  heat,  throwing  off  water  and 
carbonic  acid,  a  softening  of  the  material,  and 
certain  changes  in  its  chemical  constitution. 
These  changes  of  character,  if  not  carried  too 
far,  are  in  no  way  deleterious,  but  in  fact  render 
a  portion  of  the  woody  fibre  digestible,  which 
befoi’e  was  not  so. 

An  article  called  “  Brown  Hay  ”  is  made  in 
Europe  in  several  umys,  all  dependent  on  the 
same  principle.  When  the  grass  is  cut  it  is 
left  a  while  to  wilt,  a  day  or  two,  according  to 
the  weather,  then  laid  up  in  heaps  of  the  size  of 
ordinary  hay  cocks,  which,  after  standing  a 
day  or  two  longer  are  lifted  without  stirring, 
and  laid  together  in  large  heaps  or  stacks  and 
well  trodden  down  as  they  are  laid  up.  The 
stacks  are  formed  to  shed  the  rain,  and  some¬ 
times  a  little  salt  is  sprinkled  in  as  they  are 
made.  The  wilted  grass  is  often  hauled  to 
barns,  or  rather  buildings  for  the  purpose,  and 
these  are  packed  full,  each  forkful  being  thor¬ 
oughly  trodden.  When  the  fermentation  comes 
on  in  the  buildings  or  the  stacks,  it  will  heat 
and  steam  powerfully,  and  there  may^  even  be 
some  danger  of  spontaneous  combustion,  if  dry 
matters  are  in  close  proximity.  As  the  heat 
subsides,  it  is  trodden  again  in  order  to  keep 
all  tight  when  the  hay  settles,  as  it  does  very 
much,  the  bulk  being  reduced  fully  one  half. 
If  the  air  gains  access  by  cracks  or  otherwise, 
mildew  will  follow.  Cattle  of  all  kinds  are 
very  fond  of  this  food.  It  is  hard  and  com¬ 
pressed,  like  pressed  hay — all  in  a  mat — of  a 
brown  color,  and  a  sweet,  somewhat  hay-like 
odor.  In  the  stack  or  mow  it  may  be  cut  with 
the  hay  knife  or  a  hatchet,  and  it  is  easily  bro¬ 
ken  up  to  feed  out.  This  article,  therefore, 
however  produced,  is  nothing  new,  but  has  an 
established  reputation,  and  is,  no  doubt,  a  very 
good  way  to  make  hay,  especially  when  the 
grass  is  very  full  of  weeds ;  for  all  these  disap¬ 
pear  in  the  softening  process  which  the  hay 
undergoes  (unless  they  are  coarse,  or  of  an 
acrid,  or  very  hard  character). 

It  is  said  that  well  wilted  grass  may  be 
baled  up  in  the  field,  and  thus  cured  without 
further  care,  except  to  pile  the  bales  together 
and  protect  them  from  rain  by  a  covering  of 
hay  or  straw. 

A  man  writing  to  the  Boston  Cultivator,  says 
he  packs  wilted  grass  in  air-tight  casks  or  box¬ 
es  and  heading  them  up,  keeps  the  hay  any 
length  of  time.  The  editor  of  that  paper  goes 
into  ecstasies  over  the  perfume  of  the  sample 
box  sent  to  him. 

On  page  151,  (May  No.)  we  published  an 
account  of  the  manner  in  which  a  most  excel¬ 
lent  quality  of  clover  hay  was  produced  by 
housing  wilted  grass,  putting  it  in  layers  be¬ 
tween  dry  salt  hay.  All  these  methods  we 
commend  to  the  ingenious,  as  worthy  subjects 
of  experiment  during  the  present  haying  seasos. 


Q13 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


Halsted’s  Hay  Fork  Attachment. 

A.  M.  Halsted,  G7  Pearl-st.,  Ncw-York  City, 
communicates,  for  the  benefit  of  farmers,  an 
unpatented  improvement  to  be  used  in  connee- 
tion  with  a  horse  liay  fork,  for  carrying  the  hay 
to  the  fartlier  side  of  a  wide  mow,  or  dropping 
it  at  an  intermediate  point.  He  describes  and 


Fig.  1. — UAY  FORK  ATTACHMENT  IN  PLACE. 


explains  it  thus,  by  a  referenee  to  the  following 
illustrations  and  letters.  Fig.  1  represents  the 
attachment  put  up  in  a  barn  ready  for  operation, 
X,  X,  is  an  iron  rod  I  inch  diameter,  and  of  the 
necessary  length  for  the  barn  in  which  it  is  to 
be  placed.  On  one  end  is  a  loop  (</,  fig.  2,)  and 
the  other  end  is  threaded  and  a  nut  with  a  Jian- 
dle  put  on  so  as  to  avoid  using  a  wrench — a  and 
I>,  are  two  pulleys  hung  together,  the  upper  of 
which,  a,  runs  on  the  iron  rod,  x;  the,  hoisting 
or  draft  rope  passes  over  the  lowe?'  pulley  (5) ; 
f,  fig.  2,  is  one  of  two  hooks  of  a  bar  hooked 
at  each  end,  fastened  to  a  cross-piace,  securely 
bolted  or  spiked  to  the  two  rafters  near  the  cen¬ 
ter  of  the  barn  ;  and  about  2  to  2h  feet  below 
the  ridge  pole.  The  loop  end  of  the  rod  x,  passes 
over  one  of  the  hooks,  and  the  other  end 
through  a  cross-piece  (7t),  fastened  on  the  fur¬ 
ther  side  of  two  rafters  a  little  back  of  the  cen¬ 
ter  of  the  mow.  This  cross-piece  should  be 
placed  as  near  the  peak,  or  ridge  pole  as  the 
traveler  pully  will  allow.  The  rod  x,  should  be 
screwed  up  tigld  by  the  hand  nut.  C,  is  a  hook 
hinged  or  fastened  to  the  axis  of  the  pulley  a,  and 
dropping  into  the  loop  g.  D,  is  a  trip  rod  fiist- 
ened  to  the  hook  and  passing  over  it,  and  em¬ 
bracing  the  rod  x,  as  shown  in  fig.  2,  thus  keep¬ 
ing  the  hook  in  proper  position.  This  termi¬ 
nates  in  a  loop,  e,  at  the  lower  end,  through 
which  passes  the  draft  rope.  1,  fig.  1,  is  the  first 
pulley  fastened  in  the  peak,  or  to  the  ridge  pole 
or  rafters,  anywhere  beyond  the  termination  of 
the  iron  rod.  2,  is  the  second  pulley  fastened 
to  the  plate  over  the  door,  and  3  the  third  pul¬ 
ley  or  ^'snatch  Uock.” 


Fig.  2. — halsted’s  hay  fork  attachment. 


"When  the  fork  is  loaded  it  rises  perpendicu¬ 
larly  until  the  knob,  k,  (fig.  1,)  meets  and  pushes 
up  the  trip  rod,  d,  e,  fig.  2,  thus  releasing  the  hook 
which  keeps  the  traveler  pulleys  (a,  b,)  in  place. 


The  fork  then  is  dratra  along  and  up  the  rod, 
until  relieved  of  the  load.  When  the  horse 
backs,  the  double  pulley  runs  back  down  the  rod 
by  its  gravity,  and  the  hook  (c)  falls  into  the  loop 
{g).  The  fork  continues  to  descend  to  the  load. 
A  forkful  of  hay  can  thus  be  taken  over  any 
upper  girt,  not  nearer  than  C  or  7  fqet  to  the 
ridge  pole;  and  by  using  a  long  way  rod  x,  can 
be  carried  to  the  third  bay  from  the  floor.  This 
arrangement  is  being  used  in  connection  with 
the  fork  advertised  in  this  paper  by  the  same 
inventor,  and  will  be  furnished  by  him. 


The  Best  Wagon  Hay  Figging. 


The  accompanying  illustration  represents  a 
convenient,  light  and  strong  hay  rigging,  which 
is  considered  by  many  good  farmers  superior 
to  any  now  in  use,  and  we  have  never  met 
with  its  equal.  It  can  be  made  of  light  or  heavy 
timber.  The  following  are  the  dimensions  of 
the  various  parts  of  one  made  for  our  own  use : 
The  sills  (B,)  are  of  basswood,^  16  feet  long,  2^ 
inches  thick  and  8  inches  deep.  Pine,  whitewood, 
or  other  light  timber  will  make  good  ones. 
These  sills  are  held  two  feet  apart  by  four  cross¬ 
sills  of  hard  wood  2  inches  thick  and  6  wide, 
having  a  tenon  on  each  end  inches  thick, 
and  pinned  firmly  in  the  mortices.  The  object 
of  placing  the  sills  so  near  together  is,  to  give 
the  forward  wheels  more  play  when  turning 
around.  When  the  sills  are  placed  against  the 
stakes  in  the  bolsters  of  the  wagon,  it  is  impos¬ 
sible  to  turn  short  around.  Two  saddle  pieces, 
(E.  E.)  of  hard  wood,  2  inches  thick  and  3  wide, 
with  gains  in  the  ends  to  receive  the  wagon 
stakes,  are  bolted  to  the  under  side  of  the  long 
sills  (B).  These  rest  on  the  bolsters  of  the  wag¬ 
on,  and  hold  the  rigging  in  place  as  well  as  if 
the  sills  were  against  the  stakes.  The  arms, 
(A.  A.)  are  made  of  hard  wood,  4  inches  wide 


by  li  thick  at  the  lower  end,  where  they  go 
through  the  cross  sills.  The  upper  ends  are  li 
inches  square.  In  order  to  set  these  arms  at 
the  right  inclination,  place  the  sills  on  the  wag¬ 
on,  and  lay  out  the  mortises  through  the 
cross-sills  so  slanting,  that  the  arms  will  not 
rest  on  the  hind  wheels.  This  will  bring  the 
top  of  the  rigging  quite  low.  If  it  is  desirable 
to  have  a  wide  rigging,  let  the  arms  be  made 
long.  Six  or  seven  feet  is  sufficiently  broad  for 
a  large  one.  The  arms  should  fit  the  mortises 
in  the  cross-sills  closely,  but  not  so  tightly  that 
they  cannot  be  removed  without  driving  them 
out.  Three  or  four  slats,  (H.  H.)  are  secured 
to  the  arms  (A.  A.)  with  slim  carriage  bolts, 
which  may  be  obtained  at  hardware  stores, 
much  cheaper  than  they  can  be  made  by  hand. 
A  tight  bottom  is  made  of  inch  boards;  and 
when  hauling  grain,  we  had  pieces  of  half-inch 
stuff  fitted  nicely  betw’een  all  the  slats  to  catch 
the  loose  grain.  A  cross  piece  C,  of  hard  tough 
wood,  3  inches  wide  by  li  inch  thick,  is  bolted 


[JULT, 


to  the  end  pair  of  arms  at  bolh  ends  of  the  rig¬ 
ging.  The  sides  of  the  ladder,  D,  are  made 
of  small,  light  pieces  and  hard  wood  rounds, 
and  the  lower  ends  of  the  sides  enter  holes  in 
the  bottom  of  the  rigging.  It  is  usually  most 
convenient  to  lay  the  ladder  dowm,  except  when 
putting  on  a  load.  It  is  better  to  make  tlic 
ladder  wdde  at  the  bottom,  and  not  more  than 
a  foot  w'ide  at  the  top.  The  most  convenient 
W'ay  to  remove  such  a  rigging  from  the  wagon 
is,  to  have  two  small  pulle3^s  at  each  end  of  the 
rigging  attached  to  a  beam  in  the  barn,  and 
raise  it  bodily  from  the  wagon,  and  let  it  be 
suspended.  In  such  a  place- it  will  always  be 
out  of  the  wuiy,  and  under  shelter.  If  painted 
and  kept  housed,  such  a  rigging  will  last  years. 
■  ^  - 


MAKNEU  OP  DRAWING  UAY  WITH  A  ROPE. 


Drawing  Hay  with  a  Rope- 

It  is  very  desirable  always  to  devise  the  best 
and  most  economical  means  to  facilitate  hard 
labor  in  making  and  securing  hay,  as  well  as 
in  doing  other  kinds  of  work.  For  this  purpose, 
many  farmers  make  use  of  a  rope  and  horse  to 
haul  hay  cocks,  either  to  the  barn,  or  slack^ 
where  the  distance  is  short.  The  illustration 
represents  a  horse  in  the  act  of 
drawing  a  cock  of  hay.  One 
end  of  a  I  inch  rope,  about 
twenty  feet  long,  is  fastened  to 
the  left  trace,  and  placed  around 
the  bottom  of  the  cock,  then 
through  a  ring  in  the  hames  of 
the  harness,  and  held  113'  the 
rider.  The  end  ol  the  rope 
should  be  sew'ed  through  and 
through,  with  a  strong  leather 
string,  in  eveiy  direction,  for 
two  or  three  inches,  to  keep  it 
from  unraveling.  A  knot  in 
the  end  of  the  rope  is  objection¬ 
able  as  it  will  hinder  its  being  drawn  out  of 
the  hay  readily.  In  order  to  prevent  the  cock 
from  being  drawn  over  tow'ards  the  horse,  lift 
up  the  hay  all  around  the  bottom,  and  thrust 
the  rope  under  it  with  one  foot.  It  will  then 
be  moved  off  so  cleanly,  that  it  will  seldom  be 
necessary  to  rake  the  scattering  spears,  where 
the  cock  stood.  By  hitching  two  horses  to  the 
rope,  one  at  each  end,  and  starting  at  the  end 
of  a  windrow,  letting  the  horses  travel  close  to 
the  windrow,  four  or  six  hundred  pounds  of  ha3' 
may  be  collected  in  a  bunch,  as  fast  as  a  horse 
can  walk,  and  hauled,  with  the  team  on  a  trot, 
to  the  barn.  When  the  horses  first  start,  how¬ 
ever,  a  man  or  boy  should  thrust  a  fork  into  the 
hay,  and  press  downwards  on  it,  until  the  rope 
is  well  loaded.  As  soon  as  the  cock  is  drawn  to 
the  desired  place,  one  rider  lets  go  the  end  of 
the  rope  and  the  horse  draws  it  out  of  the  hay. 

The  principal  advantages  of  drawing  ha3'  in 
this  manner  are :  It  save  much  hard  labor  of 
pitching  it  on  a  wagon ;  two  small  boys  who 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


213 


can  not  pitch  hay  will  haul  a  ton  to  the  barn  or 
stack,  20  or  30  rods,  quicker  tlian  two  men  will 
be  able  to  cio  it  with  a  wagon ;  cocks  can  be 
dra^rn  from  a  lawn  or  orchard,  where  there  is 
not  room  for  a  loaded  wagon  to  move;  and 
when  a  whole  cock  is  taken  up  by  a  liorse  fork, 
and  placed  on  a  mow,  or  stack,  it  may  be  spread 
around  with  much  less  labor,  than  when  a  large 
wad  is  torn  from  a  loaded  wagon.  When  stack¬ 
ing  liay,  two  boys  and  one  horse  will  haul  it  to 
the  stack  faster  than  an  active  man  can  pitch  it 
by  hand,  thus  saving  all  the  hard  labor  of  pitch¬ 
ing  tlie  hay  on  a  wagon.  When  hay  is  stored 
in  barns  in  or  near  the  meadow,  two  hundred 
pounds  may  be  put  in  each  cock,  after  it  is  well 
cured,  if  they  are  hauled  with  a  rope,  as  a  horse 
will  draw  a  large  one  as  w'ell  as  a  small  one. 

- — - - - - - 

The  Buck  Rake. 


The  illustration  herewith  given  represents  a 
eery  convenient  and  useful  rake,  for  raking 
light  hay  or  for  gathering  the  scattering  hay 
while  a  load  is  being  put  on  the  cart  or  wagon. 
The  sketch  was  sent  by  Trevor  Yates,  Otsego 
Co.,  N.  Y.,  who  calls  it  a  “  shoulder  rake,” 
who  says  that  an  active  boy  or  girl,  10  or  12 
years  old,  will  do  more  with  it  than  a  man  with 
an  ordinary  hand  rake.  He  thus  describes  it : 
Tlie  head  of  the  rake  is  6  feet  long,  made  of 
good  timber,  2  inches  -wide  and  an  inch  and  a 
iialf  thick.  There  are  23  teeth  in  it,  about  3 
inches  apart  from  centre  to  centre.  The  teeth 
are  9  inches  long,  made  flat,  with  a  f-inch 
tenon  on  one  side,  and  sharpened  on  the  under 
side.  Tlie  tongue  is  crooked  at  the  rake  end 
and  sawed  apart  about  2i  feet,  then  spread 
about  twenty  inches  to  operate  as  braces.  A 
pin  sliould  be  put  through  the  handle  about  2 


feet  from  the  rake,  and  the  handle  should  be 
longer  than  represented  by  the  engraving. 
When  the  rake  lies  flat  on  the  floor,  bore  the 
holes  in  the  head  for  the  prongs  of  the  handle 
so  that  the  end  of  the  handle  will  be  about  3 
feet  8  inches  high  when  the  rake  is  finished. 
The  boy  or  girl  can  then  take  hold  of  the  pin 
with  one  hand,  place  the  other  on  the  under  side 
of  the  tongue  and  draw  it  over  the  meadow. 
When  the  rake  fills  up,  push  it  back  a  little,  so 
that  the  teeth  will  take  a  new  hold  under  the 
hay  more  readily ;  it  will  thus  carry  a  big  load. 
This  kind  of  rake  may  be  used  advantageous¬ 
ly  for  raking  hay  into  windrows  where  it  is 
fight,  as  well  as  raking  up  the  scatterings  after 
hay  has  been  put  in  cock.  The  ordinary  hand 
rakes  are  quite  too  small  and  short  for  raking 
up  scattering  hay.  For  this  reason,  every 
farmer  should  have  at  least  one  buck  rake.  A 
mechanic  of  common  abilities  can  make  one  in 
a  few  hours.  Such  a  rake  will  save  much  time 
and  labor  in  haying. 


Liquid  Manure  and  Pump  for  Raising  it. 

Although  a  large  per  centage  of  liquid  man¬ 
ure  is  water,  it  is  yet  very  valuable  for  promot¬ 
ing  the  growth  of  all  kinds  of  crops,  and  often 
more  so  than  the  solid^  portions.  Of  course  its 
value  diminishes  in  proportion  as  it  is  dilut¬ 


ed  with  water.  When  animals  are  fed  grain, 
the  liquid  which  leaches  from  their  droppings, 
or  is  collected  beneath  the  stables,  abounds  in 
more  fertilizing  matter  than  that  which  flows 
from  a  pile  of  strawy  manure.  In  the  Old 
World  the  liquid  manure  of  animals  is  saved 
with  far  more  care  than  in  America;  and  it  has 
been  stated  by  reliable  authority,  that  in  Bel¬ 
gium,  liquid  manure  is 
valued  so  highly  that  the 
urine  of  a  single  cow  com¬ 
mands  over  eight  dollars 
per  annum.  Parties  pur¬ 
chase  it  expressly  for  in¬ 
creasing  the  productive¬ 
ness  of  their  soils.  If  it 
is  so  valuable  in  other 
parts  of  the  world,  it  cer¬ 
tainly  is  worth  saving  in 
America.  The  great  dif¬ 
ficulty  in  collecting  liquid 
manure  is,  a  suitable 
pump.  There  is  usually 
more  or  less  sediment 
among  it,  wdiich  would 
clog  an  ordinary  water 
pump.  Wegive  heicwith 
an  illustration  of  a  por¬ 
tion  of  a  very  cheap  liquid 
manure  pump,  which  we 
Fig.  1.— PISTON.  have  found  to  be  very 

convenient  and  effective.  Any  one  who  can 
joint  a  board  straight  and  square,  will  be  able 
to  make  one  with  little  or  no  difficulty.  Four 
pieces  of  thick  board  are  required,  from  6  to  10 
feet  long.  Two  of  them  must  be  just  4  inches 
wide,  and  two  others  6  inches  wide.  The  latter 
two  are  nailed  firmly  on  the  edges  of  the  oth¬ 
ers.  This  will  make  a  penstock  whose  calibre 
is  four  inches  square,  from  end  to  end.  Now 
fit  a  block  in  the  lower  end,  and  bore  a  2-inch 
hole  through  it,  and  fasten  a  valve  over  the  hole 
to  open  upwards,  and  nail  the  block  in  place. 
The  larger  the  hole  the  better,  if  the  valve 
closes  it  well.  The  next  thing  is  to  make  the 
piston,  which  is  represented  by  the  accompany¬ 
ing  illustration,  fig.  1.  This  should  be  of  hard 
wood,  31  inches  wide,  and  1  thick  at  the  lower 
end,  fitting  well  but  working  easily.  This 
will  allow  a  piece  of  leather  i  of  an  inch  thick 
to  be  nailed  on  each  edge  of  the  piston  rod. 
Procure  two  pieces  of  leather,  in  the  form  shown 
in  fig.  2,  8  inches  long  from  F,  to  e,  6  inches 
broad  at  F,  and  5  inches 
wide  at  e.  These  two 
pieces  are  shown  nailed 
to  the  piston  rod,  fig.  1, 
c,  c.  At  A,  the  rod  is 
shown  in  two  pieces,  to 
indicate  an  indefinite 
length.  B,  is  the  handle 
to  pump  with.  After 
the  narrow  ends  of  the 


Fig.  2. — LEATHER. 


leather  have  been  nailed  securely  to  the  lower 
end  of  the  rod.  A,  place  the  edges  of  the  leath¬ 
er  together,  on  the  edge  of  the  piston  rod,  and 
nail  them  firmly  with  lath  nails.  As  the  pis¬ 
ton  is  thrust  downwai’d,  the  leather  will  fold 
together,  as  represented  by  the  angular  lines, 
c,  c,  and  allow  the  liquid  to  rise  above  it. 
But  as  soon  as  the  piston  rod  is  lifted,  the 
leather  spreads  out  to  the  sides  and  corners,  and 
raises  all  the  liquid  above  it,  and  the  liquid 
rushes  through  the  valve  in  the  lower  end  of  the 
penstock,  following  the  piston  upwards.  A 
spout  can  be  made  near  the  top  to  conduct  the 
liquid  where  it  is  desired.  Pieces  of  cobs,  blocks 
of  wood,  or  chafi'  will  not  obstruct  the  free 


woi’king  of  this  kind  of  pump.  Such  a  pump 
will  be  found  useful  for  pumping  sediment  from 
cesspools,  or  for  emptying  the  vaults  of  privies, 
where  most  of  the  fecal  matter  is  in  a  fluid  and 
semi-fluid  state.  Paper  will  not  obstruct  the 
valve,  or  piston.  Such  a  pump  will  draw  water 
out  of  a  shallow  well  very  fast.  The  deeper  the 
well,  the  more  power  will  be  required  to  work  it. 

— .  t<n  I  ^  ■ 

Improved  Shackles  for  Bulls  and  Backs. 


The  illustration  herewith  given,  represents  an 
improved  pair  of  shackles  fastened  to  the  for¬ 
ward  legs  of  a  bull.  Two  strong  leather  straps, 
about  2i  inches  wide,  are  buckled  one  around 
each  leg,  and  held  together  by  a  piece  of  trace 
chain,  from  12  to  IG  inches  long.  In  the  middle 
of  the  chain  is  a  swivel  to  keep  it  from  being 
twisted  into  kinks,  which  will  occur  when  there 
is  no  swivel,  by  the  animal’s  throwing  either 
foot  over  the  chain.  An  iron  link  in  the  form 
of  the  letter  D  is  welded  to  each  end  of  the 
chain,  through  which  the  leather  straps  pass; 
and  a  piece  of  thin,  firm  leather  is  sewed  over 
the  iron  to  prevent  chafing  the  legs.  Instead  of 
having  one  large  buckle  to  each  strap,  it  is  bet¬ 
ter  to  attach  two  buckles  to  one  strap,  by  sewing 
them  on  the  outside  of  main  strap,  with  sepa¬ 
rate  pieces  of  leather.  Then  sew  on  firmly  two 
straps  to  enter  the  buckles.  By  this  means  it 
will  be  seen,  that  the  main  strap  is  just  long 
enough  to  permit  the  ends  to  meet,  while  the 


buckles  and  stl’aps  are  sewed  on  the  outside. 
This  prevents  the  buckles  rubbing  the  legs. 
The  length  of  the  chain  should  of  course  be 
varied  according  to  the  size  of  the  animal. 

Such  shackles  for  a  buck  should  be  made  of 
much  lighter  leather  and  smaller  chain,  having 
a  swivel  in  the  middle  that  will  work  easily. 
Small  chains  for  this  purpose  may  be  obtained 
at  most  hardware  stores,  much  cheaper  and  bet¬ 
ter  than  can  be  made  by  ordinary  blacksmiths. 
The  swivel  and  a  few  links  can  be  taken  from  a 
light  trace  chain.  The  chain  for  a  buck’s  shackle 
should  not  be  over  7  or  8  inches  long.  When 
the  writer  was  accustomed  to  keep  sheep,  the 
bucks  were  never  separated  from  the  ewes. 
Such  shackles  were  put  on  the  fore-legs  of 
buck’s  in  the  spring,  or  fore-part  of  summer,  and 
removed  the  1st  of  December,  and  an  untimely 
lamb  was  never  seen  in  the  flock. 

Sometimes  a  farmer  has  a  young  heifer  or  a 
cow  which  he  does  not  desire  to  have  with 
calf  until  some  future  period;  and  in  some 
parts  of  the  country  the  service  of  a  bull  at  pas¬ 
ture  is  often  stolen  in  the  night,  or  when  the 
proprietor  may  not  be  at  hand.  To  prevent 
any  thing  of  the  kind  it  is  only  necessary  to 
buckle  on  the  shackles.  When  the  bull  is  need¬ 
ed  for  service,  any  one  who  can  handle  him  can 
take  them  oflf  at  pleasiue.  The  leather  should 
be  kept  well  oiled  to  render  it  soft  for  the  legs. 


314 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[Jolt, 


Clay  Lands— Crushing  Clods. 


If  a  tlirmer  could  plow  all  his  laud  at  just  the 
i-’ght  time  for  it  to  crumble  down  most  readily, 
there  would  be  no  use  for  clod  crushers.  When 
there  are  several  acres  plowed,  and  the  weather 
continues  dry  from  day  to  day,  much  of  it  will 
often  become  so  dry  that  it  will  turn  up  in  large 
clods,  in  spite  of  all  that  can  be  done.  When 
this  is  the  case,  it  becomes  necessary  to  make 
use  of  the  roller  and  harrow,  alternately,  until 
the  hard  lumps  are  reduced  so  fine  that  the  rain 
will  disintegrate  them.  If  manure  be  hauled 
out  in  the  spring,  when  the  ground  is  wet, 
wherever  the  team  poaches  the  wet  soil — if  it  is 
a  heavy  loam,  or  calcareous  clay — there  will 
be  more  or  less  clods,  as  soon  as  the  soil  is 
plowed ;  and  where  the  team  passes  several 
times  in  one  place,  there  will  often  be  so  much 
lumpy  earth,  that  it  will  hardly  be  practicable 
to  get  mellow  dirt  enough  to  cover  a  hill  of 
corn.  But  the  fault  is  not  in  the  farmer,  as  his 
teams  and  vehicles  must  travel  over  the  soil, 
whether  it  is  wet  or  dry;  and  even  when  the 
soil  is  thoroughly  underdr.ained,  and  in  a  high 
state  of  fertility,  it  will  plow  up  in  lumps.  It 
is  sometimes  utterly  impracticable  to  plow  a 
large  field  at  the  best  time.  Therefore,  since 
clods  and  lumps  are  unavoidable,  we  must 
adopt  the  most  effectual  and  economical  way 
to  pulverize  them.  When  hard  and  dry,  they 
are  very  difficult  to  crush  with  any  implement, 
but  soon  after  a  heavy  shower  of  rain,  when 
llie  soil  has  dried  sufficiently  to  prevent  adher¬ 
ing  to  the  roller,  or  crusher,  they  may  be  re¬ 
duced  to  powder  very  effectually.  Let  a  har¬ 
row  follow  the  roller  to  bringup  theclods  that  are 
partially  buried,  and  roll  the  second  time.  If 
the  roller  be  applied  at  the  correct  time,  clods 
will  give  but  little  trouble.  Where  there  are 
lumps  betw'een  rows  of  corn  or  potatoes,  the 
best  w'ay  to  dispose  of  them  is  to  turn  out  all 
hands,  with  axes,  clubs  or  mauls,  and  crush 
them.  A  blow  applied  with  the  flat  side  of  an 
ax,  will  do  the  business  as  effectually  as  aiiy- 
thing.  When  weeds  and  grass  are  small,  this 
practice  will  be  found  almost  equal  to  a  dres¬ 
sing  with  hand  hoes.  When  a  field  is  not 
underdrained,  and  is  excessively  wet,  and 
heavy  animals  have  been  allowed  to  travel  over 
it,  we  must  expect  hard  lumps  when  it  is  plowed. 
- - - - - - 

More  about  Orchard  Grass. 


Several  inquiries,  especially  one  from  S.  W. 
Penney,  of  Licking  Co.,  Ohio,  suggest  a  few 
additional  remarks  on  the  cultivation  of  or¬ 
chard  grass.  Our  correspondent  writes  that 
his  farm  is  principally  stocked  with  sheep,  that 
he  has  been  using  clover,  timothy  and  blue 
grass  for  meadows  and  pasture,  with  the  addi¬ 
tion  of  early  sown  rye  for  late  and  early  feed ; 
and  adds ;  “  From  what  I  have  read  I  am  dis¬ 
posed  to  try  orchard  grass.  Please  advise  me 
in  the  Agriculturist  wdiat  other  grasses  to  mix 
with  it  for  pasture  or  meadow  ?  IIow'  much 
seed  i)er  acre  of  each  ?  The  best  time  for  sow¬ 
ing,  wlietlicr  it  should  be  sown  in  autumn  or 
spring?  and  whether  it  should  be  cut  at  same 
state  of  maturit}'  as  timothy?” 

In  addition  to  what  is  given  on  pages  114 
and  115,  we  will  state  that  orchard  grass 
no  doubt  will  succeed  well  wherever  timo¬ 
thy  will,  cillier  for  pasture  or  early  hay.  If 
the  soil  were  in  a  very  fertile  state,  we 
would  sow  ten  pounds  of  early  red  clover  seed 
— which  matures  about  the  same  time  with 
orchard  grass — fourteen  pounds  (1  bushel)  or¬ 


chard  grass,  and  seven  pounds  (half  a  bushel) 
of  Kentucky  blue  grass.  The  object  of  the 
blue  grass  is  to  form  a  better  sod  than  the  or¬ 
chard  grass  and  red  clover  will  make.  The 
blue  grass  will  occupy  all  the  bare  spots  between 
the  tussocks  of  orchard  grass  and  the  bunches 
of  clover ;  and  will  furnish  late  pasture,  when 
red  clover  has  nearly  ceased  to  grow.  But,  as 
red  clover  and  orchard  grass  grow  larger  than 
blue  grass,  it  will  not  amount  to  much  in  mak¬ 
ing  hay.  Sow  orchard  grass  and  early  red 
clover  in  the  spring,  in  preference  to  the  fall, 
as  }muug  clover  is  very  liable  to  be  injured  by 
freezing  and  thawing  in  winter  and  spring.  It 
is  also  better  to  sow  orchard  grass  in  the  spring 
when  sowed  with  red  clover,  as  the  two  will 
mature  at  nearly  the  same  time.  If  orchard 
grass  and  Kentucky  blue  grass  be  sowed  in 
autumn,  and  red  clover  the  following  spring, 
the  clover  does  not  have  an  equal  chance  with 
them,  and  a  large  proportion  of  it  will  be 
choked  and  die.  All  of  these  kinds  of  grass 
should  be  cut  for  hay  as  soon  as  they  have  at¬ 
tained  their  growth  and  are  in  full  blossom. 

- - - - - - - 

Making  Clover  Hay. 

In  making  clover  hay  it  should  be  the  aim  to 
cut  it  at  that  stage  of  the  growth  of  the  plant 
when  it  will  make  the  most  and  best  dry  fodder ; 
to  cure  it  in  such  a  way  that  it  will  retain  its 
green  color  and  nourishing  properties  in  the 
highest  degree,  and  to  perform  this  labor  with 
the  greatest  economy  and  dispatch.  The  main 
difficulty  encountered  is  this :  if  it  is  not  man¬ 
aged  properly  during  the  curing  process,  the 
hay  will  be  harsh,  very  dry,  and  unpalat¬ 
able  ;  the  heads  and  leaves  will  drop  off  before 
the  crop  can  be  cured ;  and  if  it  is  not  cured 
enough  it  will  “mow-burn,”  badly  depreciate 
in  value,  and  finally  be  less  nutritious  than 
good  straw.  When  managed  properly  it  may 
be  cured  so  as  to  retain  all  the  leaves  and 
flowers,  and  if  the  weather  is  not  too  wet  or 
lowery,  even  the  color  of  the  blossoms  will  not 
be  entirely  lost.  We  have  often  picked  up 
heads  of  red  clover,  when  feeding  stock  in  the 
winter,  which  were  cured  properly,  and  smelled 
and  tasted  as  sweet  as  when  just  made. 

The  time  to  cut  red  clover  for  hay,  is  when 
it  has  attained  nearly  or  fully  its  greatest  growth 
and  is  in  full  bloom.  If  a  crop  of  seed  is  ex¬ 
pected  from  the  second  growth,  it  should  be  cut 
a  little  sooner  than  this.  (See  an  article  in  this 
volume,  page  182,  on  growing  clover^seed.) 

Clover  should  not  be  sunned  too  much. 
Three  or  four  hours  of  uninterrupted  sunshine, 
if  it  is  spread  out  and  stirred  once  or  twice,  are 
sufficient.  Whei'e  it  is  thick  on  the  ground,  or 
in  swaths,  the  upper  side  is  frequently  burned 
by  scorching  heat,  which  renders  it  harsh  and 
brittle.  A  convenient  amount  should  be  cut 
as  nearly  at  the  same  time  as  practicable,  so 
that  it  may  all  be  cured  alike.  When  a  meadow 
is  mowed  by  going  around  it,  sometimes  a  por¬ 
tion  of  the  hay  is  exposed  to  the  sun  several 
hours  longer  than  it  ought  to  be,  while  another 
part  of  the  same  grass  receives  not  half  enough. 
This  should  be  carefully  guarded  against. 

If  the  mowing  is  done  with  scythes,  com¬ 
mence  on  one  side  of  the  field,  and  either  mow 
back  and  forth,  or  cut  around  as  much  as  can  be 
laid  down  in  one  or  two  hours.  If  the  clover 
is  cut  with  a  mower,  drive  around  about  as 
much  as  a  team  will  mow  in  the  same  length  of 
time.  The  object  is  to  have  all  the  hay  that 
is  cut  at  a  certain  time  in  the  day,  lie  by  it¬ 
self.  As  soon  as  it  is  cut,  spread  the  swaths 


evenly  over  the  entire  ground.  Then  mow 
another  acre  or  more,  or  let  the  clover  be  spread 
by  another  hand  as  fast  as  it  is  cut.  The  true 
way  is  to  mow  a  field  as  it  is  plowed,  when  we 
commence  on  one  side,  working  towards  the 
other.  '  The  clover  that  was  cut  before  noon, 
should  be  raked  and  put  in  cocks  before  night, 
if  it  be  a  good  hay  day.  After  it  is  cut,  the  more 
it  can  be  shaken  up  and  turned  over,  and  “  kept 
in  the  air,”  the  better  the  hay  will  be  in  the 
winter.  If  the  farmer  owns  a  Hay  Tedder,  let 
it  be  kept  in  motion  from  one  hour  after  the 
clover  is  cut,  until  fit  to  rake.  When  clover  is 
allowed  to  remain  in  the  swath  for  a  few  hours, 
or  half  a  day,  or  as  some  practise,  a  day  and  a 
night,  before  it  is  turned  over  or  spread,  all  tlial 
portion  on  the  surface  will  be  cured  too  much, 
while  the  middle,  or  under  side  will  scarcely  be 
wilted.  Every  stalk  should  have  the  benefit,  it 
possible,  of  a  few  hours  hot  sun.  The  chief  ob¬ 
ject  is  to  evaporate  a  large  part  of  the  water 
contained  in  the  juices.  This  may  at  first  be 
done  very  rapidly,  for  while  it  is  going  on,  the 
clover  is  as  it  were  enveloped  in  an  atmosphere 
of  moisture,  and  cannot  parch.  As  soon  as 
rapid  evaporation  stops,  and  it  begins  to  smell 
and  to  be  hay-like,  and  not  simply  wilted  clo¬ 
ver,  it  is  time  to  check  the  drying  by  putting 
the  hay  into  windrows  or  cocks.  Here  the  exer¬ 
cise  of  good  judgment  is  essential,  lest  the  new 
mown  hay  be  dried  too  quickly,  and  too  much, 
which  injures  its  excellence  quite  as  much  as  it 
does  to  bake  bread  or  cake  in  too  hot  an  oven. 

When  the  Clover  Hat  is  fit  to  Rare. — 
An  experienced  hay-maker  can  decide  with 
great  accuracy,  even  blindfolded,  when  hay  has 
been  sunned  sufficiently  to  rake  and  put  in 
cock.  Before  it  is  cured  enough  it  feels  heavy, 
and  it  is  the  water  in  it  that  renders  it  so.  As 
soon  as  the  great  bulk  of  the  water  is  evaporat¬ 
ed,  it  feels  not  only  light,  but  soft  and  wilted.  At 
this  period  it  should  be  raked  with  all  possible 
dispatch,  and  cocked  up.  The  semi-fluid  sub¬ 
stances  now  in  the  stalks  and  leaves,  need 
simply  to  be  cured  by  the  drying  atmosphere. 
The  burning  sun  injures  them,  just  as  too  much 
broiling  makes  something  like  sole-leather  out 
of  a  good  steak.  If  in  cocks,  or  in  the  shade, 
what  remains  of  the  curing  is  gradual  and  com¬ 
plete.  In  cocking  ha}%  the  windrows  should  not 
be  rolled  up  in  compact  masses,  and  pressed 
down  closely,  as  it  prevents  the  partial  circula¬ 
tion  of  air  essential  to  curing  and  drying.  The 
cocks  should  be  made  narrow  and  high,  by 
placing  one  forkful  directly  on  the  top  of  an¬ 
other.  When  of  this  form,  the  new  hay  cures 
and  dries  out  much  sooner  than  when  the  cocks 
are  broad  and  low.  Furthermore,  when  one 
forkful  is  placed  above  another,  the  ends  of 
the  haulms  are  on  the  outside  and  hanging 
downward,  carry  off  rain.  In  wet  weather 
cover  the  cocks  with  hay  caps ;  but  keep  the 
caps  off  so  long  as  there  is  no  danger  from  rain. 
When  the  weather  is  pleasant,  let  the  cocks  be 
forked  over  every  day  after  tlie  dew  is  off,  by 
pitching  thin  forkfuls  from  them,  and  laying 
the  hay  up  into  cocks  again.  An  active  man 
will  re-cock  three  tons  in  one  hour;  and  thus 
give  it  a  good  airing.  Repeat  this  process  for 
three  days  at  least,  when  the  hay  may  be  housed 
or  stacked.  When  getting  it  in,  as  soon  as  a 
load  is  put  on  the  wagon,  turn  over  cocks 
enough  for  another  load,  stirring  up  the  damp 
hay  near  the  bottom.  By  the  time  one  load  is 
pitched  off,  another  load  will  be  in  prime  order 
to  go  into  the  barn.  It  is  not  good  practice  to 
spread  out  eight  or  ten  tons  of  hay  at  one  time, 
unless  there  is  help  enough  to  secure  it  before  it 
is  injured  by  too  much  sunshine  or  rain, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Q15 


neither  is  it  well  to  let  hay  remain  in  the  cock 
until  it  is  very  dry.  As  soon  as  it  is  well  cured 
It  should  be  stored.  If  one  has  an  abundance 
of  barn  room,  it  is  always  better  to  put  one  load 
in  a  place,  even  if  it  should  be  necessary  to 
move  it  after  a  few  days.  When  there  are  cer¬ 
tain  indications  of  a  heavy  rain  before  hay  can 
be  thoroughly  cured  and  housed,  it  is  well 
sometimes  to  put  it  in  before  it  is  really  fit  to  be 
stored  in  a  permanent  mow.  Under  such  cir¬ 
cumstances,  pitch  a  load  on  some  loose  poles 
overhead,  perhaps  another  in  another  place, 
and  so  on.  Then,  after  a  few  days,  it  may  be 
all  forked  over  and  shifted  to  another  part  of 
the  harn.  This  labor  requires  no  more  time 
than  to  do  it  in  the  field,  and  thus  a  great 
amount  of  excellent  hay  may  be  saved  from 
being  damaged  by  the  rain,  and  the  labor  per¬ 
formed  when  workmen  have  little  to  do. 

- ■  I  - - - 

Western  Agriculture. 


IS  THE  AMERICAN  AGRICUETURIST  ADAPTED  TO 
THE  WEST  ? 

The  following  letter  is  Written  to  the  Agri¬ 
culturist  by  a  young  go-a-head  westerner,  of 
Lasalle,  Ill.  It  is  so  true  an  expression  of  gen¬ 
uine  western  feeling  that  we  give  it,  making  it  a 
text  for  a  few  words  on  the  same  subject  re¬ 
garded  from  a  somewhat  dilFerent  stand  point : 

Editor  of  the  Agriculturist,  Sir: 

“Do  not  think  that  your  paper  will  do 
for  the  whole  American  continent.  Why, 
sir,  as  far  as  farming  is  concerned,  it  will 
not  do  at  all  for  the  West.  Guess  it  will  only 
do  for  the  East,  where  it  is  printed  alongside  an 
old  stone  wall,  amongst  roots,  stumps,  sticks, 
stones,  grubs,  brush,  and  all  kinds  of  rubbish 
generally  found  on  eastern  land.  Why,  sir,  if 
you  have  never  been  out  west,  you  can  not  be¬ 
lieve  the  vast  amount  of  work  done  here.  Men 
here  with  one  team  cultivate  40  acres  of  land 
and  live  4  miles  away  from  it.  Two  men  and 
teams  can  cultivate  from  30  to  50  acres  of  small 
grain,  and  from  50  to  80  acres  of  corn  and  do  it 
well.  We  have  had  men  from  the  East  here 
who  declared  that  ten  men  could  not  do  the 
work  that  one  man  had  to  do  here.  One  man 
and  team  will  plow  2  acres  per  day,  and  will 
mark  one  way  from  30  to  40  acres  (for  corn.) 
One  man  and  boy,  with  team  and  corn-planter, 
(Brown’s  is  most  generally  used)  will  plant  from 
10  to  20  acres.  We  have  corn -plows  with 
which  we  plow  ftom  8  to  12  acres,  reapers 
which  cut  from  10  to  15  acres.  We  thresh 
and  clean  from  300  to  500  bushels  of  wheat 
from  500  to  800  of  oats,  and  about  the  same  of 
barley  a  day.  Men  husk  from  30  to  50  bushels  of 
corn,  and  we  never  think  of  cutting  up  corn 
stalks  unless  we  have  not  got  hay  enough  for 
our  cattle  in  the  spring,  as  they  get  feed  enough 
in  our  cornfields  through  the  winter,  or  until 
after  the  1st  of  March,  when  we  have  to  feed 
them  until  the  15th  of  April;  then  we  turn 
them  out  into  the  prairies  to  go  until  the  1st  of 
November.  Then  we  take  a  day  and  hunt 
them  up  and  drive  them  in  rolling  fat.  Now, 
sir,  do  not  you  think  this  is  a  much  more  pro¬ 
fitable  way  of  raising  cattle  than  the  way  you 
tell  us  to  do  on  page  137,  May  number,  current 
vol.?  Do  not  think  because  we  can  do  so  much 
work  here  in  a  day,  that  we  are  idle  half  the 
4,ime.  It  is  nothing  but  constant  work  here 
.  from  the  middle  of  March  to  the  1st  of  Decem¬ 
ber,  or  till  Christmas.  You  have  considerable 
to  say  about  the  best  way  to  drop  potatoes, 
pitch  manure,  make  corn-markers,corn-coverer3, 
etc.,  but  we  do  not  need  any  such  advice  here. 


These  are /acfe— just  what  you  asked  for.  I 
can’t  tell  exactly  where.  Now  Mr.  Agricultur¬ 
ist,  any  information  you  desire  about  the  West, 
I  will  cheerfully  give  it  to  you. 

Yours  truly,  “Western  Boy.” 

It  makes  a  man’s  notions  of  farming  expand 
when  he  takes  his  stand  on  an  eminence  upon 
the  prairies,  where  the  waving  maize  fields  al¬ 
ternate  with  those  of  wheat,  and  cultivated 
land,  with  the  unbroken  prairie  on  all  sides 
as  far  as  the  eye  can  reach,  realizing  that  the 
soil  is  deep  and  very  fertile,  that  the  climate  is 
genial,  and  that  the  multitude  of  men  that  are 
making  homes  for  themselves  and  their  chil¬ 
dren,  all  over  that  broad  region,  are  vigorous, 
young,  ambitious  and  free.  The  earth  only  half 
tilled,  yields  most  bountifully,  and  even  with¬ 
out  tillage  the  natural  crop  of  wild  grass  affords 
abundant  pasturage,  and  hay  of  passable  quality 
for  herds  of  small  and  great  cattle.  The  east¬ 
ern  man  who  has  had  his  little  farm  of  30  acres 
in  Massachusetts  or  Vermont,  and  found 
enough  to  do  for  himself  and  boys,  and  perhaps 
one  or  two  hired  men  the  year  round,  may  well 
look  Avith  wonder  at  cornfields  of  several  hun¬ 
dred  acres  in  extent,  and  express  himself  aston¬ 
ished  at  the  rapidity  with  which  farm  work  is 
done.  He  finds  the  soil  as  mellow  as  the  finest 
garden  mould  he  ever  saw,  and  the  subsoil  of 
the  same  quality  to  the  depth  to  which  no 
ploAV  can  penetrate.  He  finds  moreover  the 
genuine  Western  Man  as  full  of  the  West  and 
its  glories  and  advantages  as  if  it  Avere  Eden 
itself,  and  as  if  no  end  of  brag  and  exaggeration 
(which  flows  like  a  river)  could  conve}'^  a  false 
impression. 

The  West  is  grand,  and  it  is  easy  to  raise  big 
crops,  and  to  go  over  many  acres  a  day,  and  to 
make  great  crops  without  manure,  without 
trouble  from  Aveeds,  without  the  necessity  for 
three  or  four  times  plowing  and  hoeing  for 
what  AAm  call  hoed  crops.  It  is  nevertheless 
true  that  good  farming  is  dependent  upon  the 
same  fundamental  principles  the  world  over. 
That  what  is  true  for  the  eastern  farmer  as  re¬ 
gards  the  relations  of  the  air,  the  soil,  the 
plant,  and  the  animal  to  each  other,  on  his 
small,  poor  farm  is  just  as  true  for  the  farmer  on 
the  broad  acres  of  Illinois.  If  it  is  not  necessa¬ 
ry  for  him  to  save,  and  haul,  and  spread  ma¬ 
nure  noAV,  he  should  remember  that  Avithout 
good  husbandry  his  fields  will  finally  become 
exhausted  and  need  manuring.  If  weeds  do 
not  trouble  him  noAV,  let  him  take  the  more 
care  they  do  not  find  their  way  upon  his  laild 
in  foul  grain  seed,  etc.  If  he  has  ten  thousand 
acres  of  wild  grass,  upon  which  his  herds,  with 
those  of  his  neighbors,  may  range  and  fatten, 
he  can  not  tell  in  hoAV  few  years  his  OAvn  quar¬ 
ter  section  will  be  all  the  land  he  can  control, 
and  farms  and  pasturage  grounds  of  different 
farmei's  be  as  Avell  defined  as  they  are  further 
East.  If  stall-fed  beef,  and  dairies,  and  milk, 
and  cream,  and  butter,  and  cheese,  are  almost 
unknown  articles  of  diet,  or  of  farm  production, 
let  him  live  in  hope  of  the  good  time  coming, 
when  home  markets,  or  ready  transportation, 
will  make  it  worth  while  to  know  something 
about  their  economical  production.  The  prai¬ 
ries  are  not  boundless,  their  fertility  not  inex¬ 
haustible,  and  manuring  produces  almost  as 
desirable  effects  at  the  West  as  at  the  East. 

We  admit  that  we  can  not  mark  for  corn, 
40  acres  a  day,  nor  plant  20  acres,  nor  do  a  great 
many  things  as  fast  as  they  do  “Out  West.” 
The  Agriculturist  is  intended  to  be  adapted  to 
the  wants  of  civilized  men  who  till  little  or 
mi?ch  ground,  whp  have  live  stock  to  care  for. 


be  it  beev'es  or  cliickens,  households  to  provide 
for  as  regards  both  the  Avants  of  the  body  and 
the  mind,  and  Ave  doubt  not  even  “Western 
Boy”  finds  some  thing  both  of  interest  and 
value  to  himself.  Should  he  Avrite  again  we 
hope  he  Avill  tell  us  what  he  knows  from  expe¬ 
rience,  and  Avhat  his  Western  neighbors  Avould 
be  benefitted  by  knoAving  also. 


A  Ncay  Poultry  Book. 

There  is  now  in  press  and  soon  to  be  issued 
by  the  Publisher  of  the  Agriculturist,  a  new 
Avork  on  Domestic  Poultry,  by  Mr.  S.  ]\I.  Saun¬ 
ders,  of  Staten  Island.  It  Avill  form,  Ave  think, 
a  valuable  hand-book  for  all  Avho  keep  chickens, 
Avhetlier  for  economical  purposes  merely,  or 
for  fancy.  The  number  of  poultry  breeders  is 
last  increasing,  who  take  more  delight  ii. 
the  perfection  of  breeds,  and  the  production 
of  beautiful  birds,than  in  either  eggs  or  poultry, 
for  their  OAvn  tables  or  for  market.  This  is  in 
deed  a  beautiful  and  beneficial  “fancy,”  and  to 
be  encouraged,  unless  it  runs  into  uiiAvarrnnta 
ble  extravagance,  for  it  is  through  poultiy  fan¬ 
ciers  alone  that  Ave  can  hope  for  the  preserva¬ 
tion  in  purity  ot  those  elegant  and  beautiful 
breeds  of  foAvls  Avhich  are  and  Avill  ever  be  of 
so  great  use  to  all  poultry  raisers,  enabling 
them  to  impart  to  common  stock  those  qualities 
which  render  the  pure  breeds  famous  either  ns 
layers,  or  for  the  production  of  flesh.  We  give 
on  the  next  page  two  of  the  beautiful  engrav¬ 
ings  with  Avhich  this  A\mrk  is  very  fully  embel¬ 
lished.  The  first  is  of  three  somewhat  famous 
breeds  of  French  foAvls,  wdth  descriptive  ex¬ 
tracts  from  Mr.  Saunders’  forthcoming  book. 

“  Within  the  last  two  or  three  years  some  valu¬ 
able  importations  of  new  breeds  of  poultiy 
have  been  made  into  England  from  France; 
but  I  am  not  aware  that  they  are  knoAvn  on  this 
continent.  They  have,  hoAvever,  become  suf¬ 
ficiently  known  and  appreciated  by  our  British 
cousins  as  to  demand  our  attention. 

“  The  Houdan  has  short  thick  legs,  and  a 
round,  well  -  proportioned  body,  large  head, 
small  top-knot,  falling  backAvard.  It  is  bearded, 
and  has  five  claws  on  each  foot.  It  is  a  good- 
sized  foAvl,  weighing,  Avhen  fully  groAvn— cock, 
6  lbs. ;  hen,  from  4j  to  5  lbs.  The  plumage 
should  be  speckled,  Avhite,  black,  and  straw 
color.  The  comb  is  the  most  remarkable  part 
of  this  bird  ;  and  I  can  not  do  better  than  quote 
Jacque’s  description :  ‘  Comb,  triple  crossAvaj’s 
of  the  beak,  composed  of  tAvo  flattened  spikes, 
of  long  and  rectangular  form,  opening  from  right 
to  left  like  two  leaves  of  a  book,  thick,  fleshy, 
and  variegated  at  the  edges.  A  third  spike 
grows  betAveen  these  tAvo,  having  someAvhat  the 
shape  of  an  irregular  straAvberry,  and  the  size 
of  a  long  nut.  Another,  quite  detached  from 
the  others  and  about  the  size  of  a  pea,  should 
shoAV  between  the  nostrils  and  above  the  beak.’ 
This  gives  the  bird  a  grotesque  appearance,  and 
there  is  an  air  of  impudent  drollery  and  humor 
about  him  that  is  peculiar  to  the  breed.  The 
legs  are  dark  leaden  gray.  In  this  breed  the 
hens  approach  more  nearly  the  weight  of  the 
cock  than  is  usual.  These  foAvls  are  very  popu¬ 
lar  in  France,  as  layers  and  table-foAvls. 

“  The  Ceevecosijr  is  better  knoAvn  than  any 
of  the  French  fowls ;  it  is  one  of  the  best  layers, 
not  only  on  account  of  number,  but  also  of  size, 
being  equal  in*this  respect  to  the  Spanish.  It 
is  a  short-legged  breed,  square-bodied,  deep 
chest,  Avell  shaped  for  the  table. 

“  Like  most  of  the  French  breeds,  it  is  bearded 
and  top-knotted,  but  the  latter  appendage  is 


216 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[July, 


LA  FLECHE. 


like  a  crest,  and  allows  room  in  front  for  the 
comb.  Tliis  is  singularly  shaped,  and  I  shall 
again  quote  Jlr.  Jacque :  ‘  Comb  various,  but 
always  forming  two  horns;  sometimes  parallel, 
straight  andlloshy,  sometimes  joined  at  the  base 
slightly  notched,  pointed,  and  separating  at  their 
e.xtremities;  sometimes  adding  to  this  latter 
description  interi¬ 
or  ramifications 
like,  the  horns  of 
a  youngdecr.  (The 
cock  in  the  back¬ 
ground  is  of  this 
variet}'',  and  shows 
Ibis  appearance.) 

'I'lie  same  author 
says:  ‘The  comb, 
shaped  like  horns, 
gives  the  Creve- 
eoeur  the  appear¬ 
ance  of  a  devil.’ 

'I’he  legs  should 
be  black,  or  very 
dark  slate  blue. 

Their  plumage 
should  be  entire¬ 
ly  black,  having 
bright  blue  and 
green  metallic 

lustre,  e.vcept  the  feathers  of  the  belly,  which 
arc  dark  brown.  The  hens  should  weigh  from 
5  lbs.  to  6  lbs.  each;  the  weight  of  the  cock 
should  be  7  to  7i  pounds.  The  deportment, 
of  the  Crevccoeur  is  staid,  solemn,  and  grave. 

“  The  La  Fleche  is  a  singular  bird  ;  with  a 
strong,  firm  body,  well  seated  on  its  legs,  and 
long  muscular  feet.  Appearing  smaller  than  it 
really  is,  because  the  feathers  are  close  ;  every 
muscular  part  well  developed ;  black  plumage. 
The  La  Fleche  is  the  tallest  of  all  French  cocks; 
it  has  many  points  of  resemblance  to  the 
Spanish,  from  which  Jacque  believes  it  to  be 
descended,  by  crossing  with  the  Crevecceur.  It 
has  white,  loose,  and  transparent  skin ;  short, 
juicy,  and  delicate 
flesh,  which  puts  on 
fat  easily.  As  hiyers 
they  are  superior,  like 
the  Crevecceur,  to  any 
breed  except  the 
Spanish;  but  yet,  for 
table  use,  thej'  are  not 
as  good  as  the  Dor¬ 
king.  The  La  Fleche 
has  the  body  of  the 
Spanish  placed  on 
legs  set  forward,  im¬ 
mediately  under  the 
breast  rather  than  the 
body  cf  the  bird.  It 
has  a  bold,  cheeifnl, 
lively  face;  but  ihe 
general  impression  is 
curious  from  the  ex¬ 
traordinary  comb,  of 
which  I  will  give  the 
description  from  Mr. 

Jacque:  ‘Transver¬ 
sal,  double,  forming 
tw®  horns  bending 

lorw’ard,  united  at  their  base,  divided  at 
their  summits;  sometimes  even  and  iiointed, 
sometimes  having  ramifications  on  tlie  inner 
sides.  A  little  combling  protrudes  from  the  up¬ 
per  part  of  the  nostrils;  and,  although  hardly  as 
large  as  a  pea,  this  combling,  which  surmounts 
the  sort  of  rising  formed  by  the  protrusion  of 
the  nostrils,  contributes  to  the  singular  aspect  of 


the  head.  This  measured  prominence  of  the 
comb  seenis  to  add  to  the  characteristic  depres¬ 
sion  of  the  beak,  and  gives  the  bird  a  likeness 
to  a  rhinoceros.’  [A  very  singular  bird,  truly.] 
“It  should  have  a  large  deaf-ear,  perfectly 
white;  not  so  large  as  the  Spanish,  but  larger 
than  that  of  any  other  fowl.  It  has  slate  blue 


HOTOAJf. 

GROUP  OF  FRENCH  FOWLS. 

legs,  darker  or  lighter  according  to  age,  turning 
to  a  spotted  gray  as  they  get  old.  The  hens 
differ  from  the  cock  only  by  having  a  smaller 
comb.  He  must  have  a  white  ear-lobe.  These 
are  a  peculiar  but  a  stylish  breed ;  they  are  very 
good  layers,  and  the  chickens  are  easy  to  rear.” 

Of  the  Bantams  Mr.  Saunders  says :  “They  have 
long  been  favorites;  their  small  size,  their  beau¬ 
ty,  and  their  impudence  gaining  them  admirers. 
Many  years  since,  only  those  that  were  feath¬ 
ered  to  the  toes  were  admired.  The  late  John 
Sebright,  by  much  attention  and  a  thorough 
knowdedge  of  the  subject,  succeeded  in  produc¬ 
ing  birds  of  surpassing  beauty  and  symmetiy. 
Those  that  bear  his  name  are  the  most  appre¬ 


cr.EVECtEur.. 


G.VMK  BANTAMS.  AVIIITE  FEATIIEB-LEGGED  BAKTAM.S.  SILTEK  SPANGLED  SKABr.lGUTS. 

G  K  O  U  P  OF  BA  N  T  AM  FOWLS. 

ciated  by  fanciers.  Tliey  are  of  two  colors, 
gold  and  silver;  they  must  have  double  combs, 
with  pointed  end  and  rising  upwards,  and  well- 
seated  on  the  head,  firmly  fixed,  not  inclining 
to  one  side,  nor  yet  raised  on  a  fleshy  pedestal ; 
laced  feathers,  each  being  edged  Avith  black; 
blue  legs,  without  even  the  sign  of  a  feather  on 
them;  uinight  tail,  tipped  .with  black  at  the 


point,  which  must  be  round  and  equal  in 
width  to  the  Avidest  part  of  the  feather;  there 
should  not  be  even  a  tendency  to  a  curve  in  it. 
The  side  tail-feathers  rising  from  the  back  to 
the  tail  should  also  be  flat,  round-topped,  and 
accurately  laced.  There  must  not  be  any 
hackle  or  saddle.  These  are  the  principal  points 

of  the  male.  The 
hen  requires  the 
same  comb,  the 
same  accurate  lac¬ 
ing, I  he  prominent 
bi'casl,  di’ooping 
wing,  her  head 
should  be  very 
Sinall,  beak  sharp. 
Tlie  ca.rriaee  of 
these  birds  should 
resemble  that  of 
a  good  Fantail 
pigeon ;  the  head 
and  tail  should 
be  carried  up,  in 
the  strut  of  the 
bird,  until  they 
nearly  meet,  and 
the  wing  should 
drop  doAvn  the 
side,  instead  of  be¬ 
ing  carried  up.  In  both  sexes  the  Aving-feathers 
should  be  tipped  with  black,  and  even  the  long 
feathers  laced.  Like  all  other  first-class  birds, 
these  are  difficult  to  get;  and  lest  amateurs 
should  be  discouraged,  I  may  almost  venture  to 
say,  a  faultless  bird  is  hardly  to  be  found. 
Prom  the  best-bred  parents,  single-combed 
chickens  Avill  constantly  appear,  but  these  will 
again  produce  perfectly  double-combed  proge¬ 
ny.  Such  are,  hoAvever,  to  be  trusted,  Avhen 
the  possessor  of  them  is  sure  that,  although 
defective  themselves,  their  parents  were  fault¬ 
less  in  this  particular.  It  is  never  advisable  to 
breed  from  a  faulty  bird,  if  a  perfect  one  can 
be  obtained.  Small  size  is  a  desideratum  in 
these  fowls.  They 
are,  therefore,  sel¬ 
dom  bred  earl}",  as 
groAvth  is  not  desired, 
July  is  early  enough 
to  hatch  them.  Per¬ 
fect  cocks  should  not 
Aveigh  more  than 
seventeen  ouuces,  nor 
hens  more  than  four¬ 
teen.  Other  Bantams, 
to  pretend  to  excel¬ 
lence,  should  be  di¬ 
minutive  as  the  Se¬ 
bright,  and  should 
have  the  same  arro¬ 
gant  gait;  but  they 
differ,  inasmuch  as 
the  males  should  be 
large  cocks  in  minia¬ 
ture,  with  hackle, 
saddle,  and  tail  fully 
developed.  The  rule 
of  comb  is  not  so  im¬ 
perative.  In  black 
and  Avhite  birds  it 
should  be  double ;  but  it  is  not  so  necessaiy, 
nor  does  the  substitution  of  a  single  one  cause 
disqualification.  In  the  black  breed.s,  white 
deaf-ears  are  necessary  to  excellence;  and  in 
these  and  the  Avhite,  the  sickle  feathers  should 
be  long  and  Avell  carried.  Feathered-legged 
bantams  may  be  of  any  color.  The  Bantams 
are  good  layers  and  mothers,  and  easily  reared.” 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


217 


The  Touch-me-not  or  Jewel  Weed. 


All  through  the  summer  months  there  may 
be  found  in  rich,  moist,  and  shady  spots  a  wild 
flower,  a  small  branch  of  which  is  represented 
in  the  accompanying  engraving.  The  pale  color 
and  general  coarseness  of  the  foliage  are  such 
that  the  plant  does  not  at  first  sight  present  a 
very  attractive  appearance,  and  its  interest  is 
mainly  confined  to  the  flowers  and  fruits.  The 
plant  grows  from  two  to  four  feet  or  more  in 
bight,  and  has  a  succulent  semi-translucent  stem; 
it  is  much  branched  and  bears  its  flowers  towards 
the  ends  of  tlie  branches.  The  flowers,  the 
shape  of  which  will  be  seen  in  the  engraving, 
are  curiously  formed,the  calyx  and  corolla  color¬ 
ed  alike,  with  one  of  the  parts  of  the  calyx  much 
larger  than  the  others,  bag-like,  and  at  one  end 
drawn  out  into  a  point  or  spur  which  is  bent 
over  towards  the  front  of  the  flower.  The 
flowers  are  of  a  bright  orange  yellow,  spotted 
with  brown,  and  their  brillrancy  together  with 
the  grace  with  which  they  hang  upon  their 
slender  stems,  have  naturally  suggested  the 
popular  name  of  Jewel- weed.  These  showy 
flowers  very  seldom  produce  seeds,  but  other 
flowers,  which  are  so  inconspicuous  that  they 
are  seldom  noticed,  are  the  fertile  ones.  In  these 
seed  bearing  flowers,  the  petals,  etc.,  do  not  open, 
but  the  pistil  is  fertilized  in  the  bud ;  as  it  grows, 
the  parts  of  the  flower  are  pushed  off.  The 
long  and  narrow  seed  pod,  when  ripe,  bursts 
spontaneously,  and  scatters  the  seeds,  the  five 
parts  which  form  the  exterior  of  the  pod  or  seed 
vessel,  breaking  away  from  the  central  portion 
and  curling  up  with  considerable  force.  A  pod 
after  it  has  burst,  is  shown  at  the  lower  right 
hand  side  of  the  figure.  The  botanical  name 
is  Impatiens  fulm.  The  generic  name,  Im- 
patiens,  alludes  to  the  impatience  of  the  seed- 
pod  under  handling,  and  its  common  name. 
Touch-me-not,  expresses  the  same  peculiarity. 


The  specific  name, 
fulva,  is  in  refer¬ 
ence  to  its  color, 
and  there  is  an¬ 
other  species,  less 
common  than  this, 
with  larger  and 
paler  flowers,  cal¬ 
led  pallida.  The 
closely  related 
garden  Balsam, 
sometimes  called 
Ladies-slipper,  is 
ImpatiensBalsam- 
ina,  and  in  flowers 
(when  single)  and 
fruit  resembles 
this  in  all  impor¬ 
tant  partieulars. 

Grape  Mildew 
and  its  Cure. 

Some  of  our  cor¬ 
respondents,  in 
view  of  the  fre¬ 
quent  recommen¬ 
dation  to  use  sul¬ 
phur  to  prevent 
or  arrest  mildew, 
ask  how  they  can 
know  that  their 
vines  are  attacked 
by  it.  The  mil¬ 
dew  makes  its  ap¬ 
pearance  in  little 
grayish  patches 
upon  the  leaf,  sometimes  upon  one  side  only 
and  at  others  both  sides  are  attaeked.  The 
spots  rapidly  increase  in  size,  and  the  vitality  of 
the  leaf  is  destroyed ;  the  young  wood  and 
buds  are  often  attacked,  and  the  green  fruit  is 
also  subject  to  the 
mildew.  If  the 
progress  of  the 
trouble  is  not  ar¬ 
rested,  the  growth 
is  interfered  with, 
and  not  only  is 
the  crop  of  the 
present  season 
lost,but  even  if  the 
buds  escape  in- 
juiy,  the  health  of 
the  vine  is  so  se¬ 
riously  impaired  that  it  is  afterwards  more 
susceptible  to  the  attacks  of  disease.  When  mil¬ 
dew  appears  on  the  fruit,  it  ceases  to  grow,  the 
skin  hardens,  cracks  and  exposes  the  seeds. 
All  of  this  trouble  is  caused  by  a  small  parasitic 
fungus,  so  minute  that 
it  requires  a  magnifier  to 
see  it  distinctly.  A 
small  portion  of  the  mil¬ 
dew  is  shown-in  Fig.  1, 
very  much  enlarged.  At 
the  lower  side  are  seen 
a  part  of  the  threads 
which  are,  in  the  real 
plant,  exceedingly  min¬ 
ute  and  cobweb-like. 
These  threads  are  the 
plant  proper;  they  pen¬ 
etrate  the  tissues  and  liv- 
1- — mildew.  jjjg  oji  their  juices, 

branch  and  multiply  rapidly,  and  cause  destruc¬ 
tion  to  the  leaf  and  other  parts  of  the  vine.  The 
upright,  club-shaped  bodies,  shown  in  Figure  1,  as 
springing  from  the  horizontal  threads,  are  the  re¬ 


productive  portions  of  the  iilantaiul  contain  tht 
spores,  or  the  minute  dust,  which  serve  to  dis¬ 
tribute  and  muitiply  tiie  fungus  in  (he  same 
manner  that  seeds  do  in  piants  of  a  iiigber  order. 

The  mildew  fungus  is  caiied  Oidimn  Tuckeri, 
the  specific  name  iiaving  lieen  giving  in  iionor 
of  a  Mr.  Tucker,  who  gave  an  account  of  tiie 
mildew  when  it  flrst  a]ipcared  in  England. 


Vines  in  a  confined  and  moist  atmosplicre  are 
more  liable  to  mildew  than  tliose  in  a  dry  and 
open  situation,  and  weak  and  pooi-ly  grown 
vines  seem  less  able  to  resist  it  tlian  do  strong 
and  vigorous  ones.  Tiie  susceptibility  .of  va¬ 
rieties  to  attack,  differs  largely  in  degree,  it  be¬ 
ing  almost  impossible  to  keep  it  from  some, 
while  others  are  never  or  rarel}’’  troubled  by  it. 

Sulphur  in  some  form  has  been  found  to  be 
an  effectual  reined}^;  tiie  direct  application  of 
the  flowers  of  sulphur  is  the  easiest,  and  perliaps 
as  satisfactory  in  its  results  as  anje  With  vines 
under  glass,  the  volatilization  which  takes  place 
at  a  moderate  heat,  suffices.  Out  of  doors 
the  plants  must  be  dusted.  We  have  l)cfore 
described  a  bellows  used  in  France  for  I  lie  imr- 
pose  of  dusting  the  plants,  and  in  Fig.  2  we  give 
a  representation  of  it.  It  is  like  a  common  bel¬ 
lows  with  a  wide  tin  nozzle,  wliich  lias  its  open¬ 
ing  covered  with  coarse  wire  gauze.  Tlicre  is 
no  valve  on  the  under  side,  and  on  tiie  upper 
side,  for  introducing  the  sulpliur,  is  an  oiiening, 
which  is  closed  by  a  cork.  Tiie  curve  in  (lie 
tube  allows  the  under  side  of  tlic  leaves  to  be 
reached  with  ease.  We  believe  that  the  bellows 
is  for  sale  at  the  horticultural  establishments. 


The  publication  of  a  design  for  a  rustic  vase 
in  January  last,  has  called  forth  several  sugges¬ 
tions  in  regard  to  such  matters,  which  indicate 
that  our  readers  appreciate  the  value  of  the 
ornamental  as  well  as  of  the  practical.  We  do 
not  find  much  space  in  which  to  treat  upon  em¬ 
bellishments,  yet  they  are  not  to  be  altogether 
omitted,  and  we  hold  that  whatever  makes  home 
more  attractive  is  really  useful.  In  the  matter 
of  rustic  vases,  Isaac  Hicks,  of  Long  Island, 
finds  that  a  cheese-box,  properly  strengthened, 
covered  with  chestnut-bark,  and  placed  upon  a 
portion  of  the  trunk  of  a  tree  for  a  pedestal, 
makes  a  very  serviceable  and  easily  constructed 
vase.  O.  Ordway,  of  Hillsborough  Co.,  N.  H., 
makes  his  receptacle  for  flowers  of  the  end  of 
an  old  alcohol  or  other  strong  barrel.  Tliis  is 
sawed  off  just  above  the  second  tier  of  hoops, 
the  head  strengthened  by  cleats  and  set  upon  a 
section  of  a  log.  The  whole  is  then  covered  with 
a  rustic  work  of  twigs,  bark  or  rattan,  and  if  need 
be,  painted  brown  or  some  neutral  tint.  Mr.  O. 
thinks,  that  two  kinds  of  plants  are  better  than 


Eural  Embellishments. 


S18 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[JULT 


a  great  variety,  and  prefers  the  Periwinkle 
( Vinca  minor),  or  Jloney-wort  {Lysimachia  nuin- 
mularia),  for  trailing  over  the  edge  of  the  vase 
and  some  of  the  dwarf  Lobelias  for  the  centre. — 
In  the  way  of  rustic  seats,  we  have  quite  a  novel 
and  easily  executed  design  communicated  by 
C.  E.  Townsend,  of  Queens  Co.,  N.  Y.,  whose 
very  clever  sketch  we  have  had  engraved.  Two 
log-cuts,  with  the  bark  on,  2  feet  long,  ai^d 
about  20  inches  in  diameter,  are  used  for  the 
supports  to  the  seat,  which  is  a  plank  14  inches 
wide  and  6  feet  long.  Grooves  are  made  in  the 
logs  at  8  inches  from  the  top  to  receive  the  seat. 
Beneath  the  seat  is  a  curtain  sawed  out  of  a 
10-inch  board,  and  which  is  held  in  place  by 
longitudinal  grooves  in  the  logs,  under  the 
middle  of  the  seat.  The  whole  readily  comes 
apart,  and  it  ma\^  be  taken  in  pieces,  and  housed 
in  the  winter.  The  plan  here  given  is  very 
simple  and  unpretending,  and  in  many  situations 
would  be  all  that  is  required  for  a  lawn  seat. 


The  Culture  of  Celery. 


By  Peter  Henderson,  Jersey  City,  N.  J. 

I  know  of  no  vegetable  on  the  cultivation  of 
which  there  is  so  much  useless  lalwr  expended 
with  such  unsatisfactory  results,  as  celery.  Al¬ 
most  all  private  cultivators  still  think  it  mcces- 
sary  to  dig  otit  trenches,  from  six  to  twelve 
inches  deep,  involving  great  labor  and  expense, 
and  giving  a  very  inferior  crop  to  that  planted 
on  the  level  surfirce,  in  the  manner  practised  on 
hundreds  of  acres  by  the  market  gardeners  in 
the  vicinity  of  New  York. 

Our  manner  of  treating  the  celery  crop,  of 
late  years,  is  very  much  simplified.  Instead  of 
sowing  the  seed  in  a  hot  bed  or  cold  frame,  as 
formerly,  it  is  sown  in  the  open  ground  as  soon 
as  it  is  fit  to  work  in  April,  and  ke{>t  carefully 
clear  of  weeds  until  the  time  of  planting  in  June 
and  July.  The  tops  are  shorn  off  once  or 
twice  before  planting,  so  as  to  ensure  “stocky  ” 
plants,  which  suffer  less  on  being  transplanted. 
Celery  is  always  grown  as  a  “  second  crop”  by 
the  market  gardeners,  that  is,  it  follows  after  the 
spring  crop  of  beets,  onions,  cabbage,  cauliflow¬ 
er  or  peas,  which  are  cleared  off  and  marketed, 
at  latest,  by  the  middle  of  July;  the  ground  is 
then  thoroughly  plowed  and  harrowed.  No 
additional  manure  is  used,  as  enough  remains 
in  the  ground,  from  the  heavy  coat  it  has 
received  in  the  spring,  to  carry  through  the 
crop  of  celery.  After  the  ground  has  been 
nicely  prepared,  lines  are  struck  out  on  the 
level  surface,  3  feet  apart,  and  tl»e  plants  set  6 
inches  apart  in  the  I'ows.  If  the  weather  is  dry 
at  the  time  of  planting,  great  care  should  be 
taken  that  the  roots  are  properly  “  firmed.” 
Our  custom  is,  to  turn  back  on  the  row,  and 
press  by  the  side  of  each  plant  gently  with  the 
foot.  This  compacts  the  soil  and  partially  ex¬ 
cludes  the  air  from  the  root  until  new  rootlets 
are  formed,  which  will  usually  be  in  48  hours, 
after  which  all  danger  is  over.  This  practice  of 
pressing  the  soil  closely  around  the  roots  is 
essential  in  planting  of  all  kinds,  and  millions 
of  plants  are  annually  destroyed  by  its  omission. 
After  the  planting  of  the  celery  is  completed, 
nothing  further  is  to  be  done  for  six  or  seven 
weeks,  except  running  through  between  the 
rows  with  the  cultivator  or  hoe,  and  freeing  the 
plants  of  weeds  until  they  get  strong  enough  to 
crowd  them  down.  This  will  bring  us  to  about 
the  middle  of  August,  by  which  time  w'e  have 
usually  that  moist  and  cool  atmosphere  essen¬ 
tial  to  the  growth  of  celery.  Then  we  begin 
the  “  earthing  up.”  necessary  for  blanching  or 


whitening  that  which  is  wanted  for  use  during 
the  months  of  September,  October  and  Novem¬ 
ber.  The  first  operation  is  that  of  “  handling,” 
as  we  term  it,  that  is,  after  the  soil  has  been 
drawn  up  against  the  plant  with  the  hoe,  it  is 
further  drawn  close  around  each  plant  by  the 
hand,  firm  enough  to  keep  the  leaves  in  an  up¬ 
right  position  and  prevent  them  from  spreading, 
which  will  leave  them  as  shown  in  fig.  1. 
This  being  done,  more  soil  is  drawn  against  the 
row  (either  by  the  plow  or  hoe,  as  circum¬ 
stances  require),  so  as  to  keep  the  plant  in  this 
upright  position.  The  blanching  process  must 
however  be  finished  by  the  spade,  which  is  done 
by  digging  the  soil  from  between  the  rows  and 
banking  it  up  clear  to  the  top  on  each  side  of  the 
row  of  celery,  as  in  fig.  2.  Three  feet  is  ampie 
disUince  between  the  dwarf  varieties,  but  when 
“Seymour’s  Superb,”  “Giant,”  or  other  large 
sorts  are  used,  the  width  of  the  rows  must  be 
at  least  four  and  a  half  or 
five  feet,  thereby  entailing 
much  more  labor  and  loss 
of  groiind.  For  the  past  six 
years  I  have  grown  none 
but  the  dwarf  varieties,  and 
have  saved  in  consequence 
at  least  one  half  in  labor, 
and  one  third  in  ground, 
while  the  average  price  per  root  m  market  has 
been  always  equa.  and  occasionally  higher  than 
for  the  tall  growing  sorts. 

The  preparation  of  the  soil  and  planting  of 
celery  for  winter  use,  is  the  same  in  all  respects, 
except  that,  what  is  intended  for  W'inter  should 
never  be  “banked  up”  with  the  spade.  It 
merely  requires  to  be  put  through  the  handling 
process,  to  put  it  in  a  compact  and  upright 
position  preparatory  to  being  stowed  away  in 
winter  quarters.  This  should  not  be  done  be¬ 
fore  the  middle  of  September,  or  just  long 
enough  before  the  celery  is  dug  up  to  keep  it  in 
the  upright  position.  Our  manner  of  preserving 
it  during  winter  is  now  very  simple,  but  as  the 
knowledge  of  the  process  is  yet  quite  local,  be¬ 
ing  confined  almost  exclusively  to  the  Jersey 
market  gardeners,  I  will 
endeavor  to  put  it  plain 
enough,  so  that  5mur 
readers  “  may  go  and  do 
so  likewise.”  In  this  lo¬ 
cality  we  begin  to  dig  up 
that  which  we  intend  for 
winter  use,  about  the  end 
of  October,  and  continue 
the  work  (always  on  dry  days)  until  the  20th  or 
25th  of  November,  which  is  as  late  as  we  dare 
risk  it  out  for  fear  of  frost.  Let  it  be  understood 
that  celery  will  stand  quite  a  sharp  frost,  say 
10  or  even  15  degrees,  while  20  or  25  de¬ 
grees  will  destroy  it.  Hence  experience  has 
taught  us  that  the  sharp  frosts  that  we  usually 
Iiave  during  the  early  part  of  November,  rarely 
hurt  it,  though  often  causing  it  to  droop  flat  on 
the  ground,  until  thawed  out  by  the  sun.  It 
must,  however,  never  be  touched  when  in  the 
frozen  state,  or  it  is  almost  certain  to  decay. 
The  ground  in  which  it  is  placed  for  winter  use 
should  be  as  dry  as  possible,  or  if  not  dry,  so 
arranged  that  no  water  will  remain  in  the 
trench.  The  trench  should  be  dug  as  narrow 
as  possible,  not  more  than  10  or  12  inches  wide, 
and  of  the  depth  exactly  of  the  height  of  the 
celery ;  that  is,  if  the  plant  of  the  celery  be  two 
feet  in  length,  the  depth  of  the  drain  or  trench 
should  be  two  feet  also.  The  celery  is  now 
placed  in  the  trench  as  near  perpendicular  as 
possible,  so  as  to  fill  it  up  entirely,  its  green 


Fig.  2.— EARTHING. 


tops  being  on  a  level  with  the  top  of  the  trench. 
Fig.  3  represents  a  section  across  a  trench  filled 
with  celery  in  the  manner  just  described. 
No  earth  whatever  is  put  to  tlie  roots  other 
than  what  may  adhere  to 
them  after  being  dug  up. 

It  being  closely  packed 
together,  there  is  moisture 
enough  always  at  the  bot¬ 
tom  of  the  trench  to  keep 
the  plant,  at  the  cool  sea¬ 
son  of  year,  from  wilting. 

That  which  is  put  in 
trenches  about  the  25lh  of 
October,  is  usually  ready  to  be  taken  iqi  for 
use  about  the  1st  of  December,  that  a  couple  of 
weeks  later,  by  1st  January,  and  the  last  (which 
we  try  always  to  defer  to  15th  or  20th  Novem¬ 
ber)  may  be  used  during  the  winter  and  until 
the  1st  of  April.  For  the  first  lot  no  covering 
is  required,  but  that  for  use  during  the  winter 
months  must  be  gradually  covered  up  from  the 
middle  of  December,  on  until  1st  of  Januaiy, 
when  it  will  require  at  least  a  foot  of  covering 
of  some  light,  dry  material — hay,  straw,  oi’ 
leaves — the  latter  perhaps  the  best,  I  have  sain 
the  coveriiig  up  should  be  gradual.  This  is 
very  important,  for  if  the  full  weight  of  cover¬ 
ing  is  put  on  at  once,  it  prevents  the  passing  otl 
of  the  heat  generated  by  the  closely  packed 
mass  of  celeiy,  and  in  consequence  it  to  some 
extent  “  heats,”  and  decay  takes  place.  Covered 
up  in  this  manner  it  can  be  got  out  with  ease, 
during  the  coldest  weather  in  wdnter,  and  with 
perfect  safety. 

It  may  be  interesting  to  some  to  know  what 
are  the  profits  of  this  crop.  I  have  cultivated 
an  average  of  10  acres  of  it  for  the  past  IG  years, 
and  can  speak  from  this  experience.  For  many 
years  in  the  early  part  of  that  time,  it  was  by 
no  means  what  we  would  now  call  a  profitable 
crop.  By  persisting  in  raising  the  large  grow¬ 
ing  sorts,  and  the  awkward  and  expensive 
mode  we  had  then  of  working  it,  w'e  were  sat¬ 
isfied  if  it  gave  us  a  profit  of  $50  or  $75  per 
acre.  But  for  the  last  six  or  eight  years,  by 
adopting  the  flat  culture,  and  the  drain  or 
trench  system  for  winter  storage,  it  has  done 
much  better,  and  is  now  a  very  profitable  “  sec¬ 
ond  crop,”  averaging  a  clear  profit  of  $300  jrer 
acre,  though  it  rarely  brings  over  $3  per  100 
roots.  No  doubt,  in  many  parts  of  the  country 
it  would  be  much  more  profitable  than  in  the 
crowded  markets  of  New  York.  It  is  shipped 
from  here  in  all  directions;  to  Philadelphia 
(largely),  Baltimore  and  Washington,  (South,) 
and  to  Newport,  Providence,  Hartford  and 
New  Haven,  (East.)  It  is  a  bulky  and  expensive 
article  to  ship,  and  the  dealer  must  realize  more 
than  double  on  the  purchase,  or  it  will  not  pay 
his  risk.  It  must  thus  cost  the  consumer,  in 
these  towns  to  which  we  send  it,  8  or  10  cents 
a  head,  a  price  at  which  it  would  pay  a  clear 
profit  of  $1000  per  acre. 


Double-working  Pear  Trees.— In  discus¬ 
sions  about  fruit  it  is  frequently  stated  that  a 
certain  variety  will  only  succeed  on  quince  stock 
when  “double  worked.”  As  this  is  quite  a 
technical  expression,  some  of  our  readers  ask 
us  to  explain  what  it  means.  The  readiness 
with  which  different  kinds  of  pears  will  unite 
with  the  quince  stock  varies  greath"^,  as  does  their 
after  growth  and  vigor  when  the  union  has  ta¬ 
ken  place.  Double  w'orking  consists  simply  in 
budding  the  quince  stock  with  a  kind  of  pear 
that  is  known  to  succeed  well  upon  it,  letting  it 
grow  to  the  desired  size,  and  then  budding 


Fig.  3. — STORING. 


1865.J 


AMEKICAN  AG-RIOULTUKIST. 


2l9 


the  pear  with  the  variety  wliich  will  not  do 
well  if  worked  directly  upon  the  quince.  In 
this  way  the  early  fruiting,  and  other  benefits 
resulting  from  dwarfing  arc  secured. 

- •-« - 4  - 

Notes  on  Strawberries. 

As  we  go  to  press  at  too  early  a  day  to  allow 
of  any  extended  account  of  the  fruit  shown  at 
our  Strawberry  Exhibition  on  June  8th  and 
15th,  wm  give  notes  of  our  observations  upon 
berries  in  the  gardens  and  those  which  have 
from  time  to  time  been  brought  to  the  office. 
The  present  has  generally  been  a  favorable  sea¬ 
son  for  strawberries,  and  though  the  quantities 
in  market  have  been  large,  good  fruit  has 
brought  a  good  price.  These  notes  are  made 
upon  berries  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  New 
I  York,  and  the  opinions  given  may  not  agree 
with  the  experience  of  those  living  in  distant 
localities;  but  it  must  be  borne  in  mind  that 
those  varieties  which  are  successful  in  some 
parts  of  the  West,  and  elsewhere,  may  be  worth¬ 
less  here,  and  vice  versa. 

Agnculturiat. — Specimens  of  this  have  been 
sent  by  several  cultivators,  and  it  bids  fair  to 
fulfil  the  hopes  entertained  of  it  as  being  one 
of  the  most  remarkable  berries  in  cultivation. 
The  vines  on  Mr.  Judd’s  grounds,  though  they 
were  urged  to  make  all  the  runners  possible, 
are  something  wonderful  in  the  way  of  fruitful¬ 
ness,  and  seem  to  contradict  the  statement  that 
a  plant  cannot  make  runners  and  still  bear 
good  crops  of  fruit.  Some  inquiries  have  been 
made  as  to  the  sexual  character  of  this  variety. 
Every  blossom  we  have  examined  has  been 
perfect ;  still,  a  close  observer,  whose  accuracy 
we  cannot  doubt,  states  that  some  of  the  late 
blossoms  are  pistillate  only,  but  that  all  become 
fertilized.  This  favorable  opinion  of  the  “Agri¬ 
culturist”  is  not  drawn  solely  from  plants  in  Mr. 
Judd’s  grounds,  but  from  seeing  it  elsewhere, 
and  in  difierent  soils,  and  from  the  reports  of 
those  who  have  had  it  in  cultivation  long 
enough  to  fruit  it.  There  was  one  point  re¬ 
specting  this  variety  upon  which  we  had  strong 
doubts.  It  was  known  what  the  plant  would 
do  with  high  cultivation  and  with  good  but  not 
excessive  care,  but  we  feared  that  like  many 
other  sorts  it  would,  when  subjected  to  the  in¬ 
different  treatment  of  inexperienced  cultivators, 
degenerate  and  prove  a  disappointment.  This 
doubt  is  now  removed,  as  we  have  seen  it  grow 
in  very  poor  soil  and  almost  covered  with 
weeds,  yet  it  produced  an  amount  of  fruit  that 
in  any  other  variety,  under  good  cultivation, 
would  be  considered  large.  While  we  do  not 
advocate  poor  culture  for  the  strawberry,  or 
for  any  thing  else,  it  is  gratifying  to  know  that 
the  “Agriculturist”  is  a  variety  that  will  do 
well  under  such  treatment  as  it  will  be  likely 
to  get  at  the  hands  of  the  people  generally,  and 
that  it  does  n8t  need  especial  petting. 

Lennig's  IFZwte.— Altogether  the  best  of  the 
white  berries,  fine’  large,  and  a  great  bearer. 

Monstrous  Eautl)ois.—Th\5  is  a  remarkably 
robust  variety  of  Hautbois,  and  has  all  the  pecu¬ 
liar  characteristics  of  that  class.  It  is  a  great 
bearer,  and  we  are  informed  that  the  fruit  is  of 
good  quality.  We  have  only  seen  it  with  the 
unripe  fruit,  and  regard  it  as  a  striking  variety 
and  promising  well. 

Quite  a  new  sort.  Young  plants  are 
very  vigorous,  and  make  a  good  show  of  fruit. 

Downer's  ProZ»/ic.— This  comparatively  old 
sort  is  increasing  in  estimation  with  cultivators. 
It  bears  well,  even  under  neglect,  is  very  early, 
of  good  size  and  shov?y,  but  it  is  very  acid. 


Buffalo. — This  has  been  by  some  considered 
identical  with  Russell’s  Prolific,  but  upon  see¬ 
ing  the  plants  side  by  side,  we  cannot  think 
them  the  same.  Like  the  Russell,  it  is  a  strong 
plant  and  a  great  bearer,  but  it  has  much 
stronger  fruit  stalks  and  holds  up  its  fruit  better 
than  that  variety.  Its  resemblance  to  McAvoy’s 
Superior,  (we  have  not  compared  the  two  plants,) 
is  still  greater  than  to  the  Russell,  and  if  not 
identical  to  that  variety,  it  is,  as  far  as  the  fruit  is 
concerned,  a  distinction  without  a  difference. 

Triomplie  de  Gand. — This  variety  has  done 
much  better  this  year  than  last.  Its  large  size 
and  firmness  make  it  an  excellent  market  vari¬ 
ety,  but  to  our  taste,  and  we  are  not  alone  in  this 
respect,  its  peculiar  flavor  is  not  agreeable. 

Burr's  New  Pine. — An  old  variety,  but  one 
which,  in  point  of  flavor,  is  hard  to  excel.  Mr. 
Knox  puts  this  as  one  of  the  best  three,  and 
considering  his  large  experience,  this  is  a  high 
praise.  It  is  usually  considered  a  moderate 
bearer,  but  as  we  have  seen  it  this  year  it  had 
sufficient  fruit  to  satisfy  any  one.  Berry  of  only 
medium  size,  of  good  shape  and  color. 

FrenclCs  Seedling. — This  variety,  which  has 
for  some  time  been  a  popular  one  in  the  Phila¬ 
delphia  markets,  proves  well  here.  It  is  a  very 
vigorous  grower,  and  good  bearer.  Size  and 
shape  good,  color  bright  scarlet,  and  of  very  fair 
flavor.  These  qualities  together  with  its 
earliness  make  it  a  good  market  variety.  Flow¬ 
ers  hermaphrodite.  Said  to  be  an  accidental 
seedling  found  in  a  meadow. 

Fillmore. — This  is  one  of  Mr.  Knox’s  favorites, 
but  it  does  poorly  on  Long  Island.  It  is  pistil¬ 
late,  of  good  size,  but  there  it  is  indifferent  in 
quality  and  productiveness. 

Marguerite. — Large  and  showy  to  the  eye, 
but  watery  and  worthless  to  the  taste. 

Austin. — Some  very  honest  people  think  this 
a  good  fruit,  and  we  are  sorry  not  to  be  able  to 
agree  with  them.  It  bears  largely,  but  the  fruit 
is  soft  and  of  very  inferior  quality. 

Bonte  de  St.  Julien. — A  great  bearer,  and  a 
good  family  fruit,  sweet  and  too  soft  to  market. 

Le  Baron. — Soft  and  flavorless. 

Hooker. — This  is  said  to  be  a  rather  local  ber¬ 
ry.  In  the  extensive  collection  of  Mr.  Cavanagh, 
Brooklyn,  it  is  a  good  bearer.  Fruit  of  good  size 
and  among  the  best  for  quality. 

Ladies'  Pine. — A  small  to  medium  berry,  very 
pale,  fair  bearer,  and  very  sweet  and  rich. 

Jucunda. — As  we  have  seen  it,  large  and  poor, 
but  has  an  excellent  reputation  at  the  West. 

Jenny  Lind. — Early  and  very  firm,  but  not 
productive  here. 

BusseVs  Prolific. — This  is  well  named  “  pro¬ 
lific.”  It  maintains  its  reputation  as  one  of  the 
best  and  most  productive  of  the  pistillates. 
Sometimes  hollow  at  the  core  and  not  very  firm. 

Belle  Bordelaise. — This  is  a  variety  of  the 
Hautbois  with  a  most  peculiar  flavor,  reminding 
one  of  a  Black-cap  Raspberry. 

Fillbasket. — This  was  probably  named  by  the 
rule  of  contraries.  It  would  puzzle  one  to  fill 
a  small  basket  from  a  large  bed  as  it  grows  here. 

Progress. — A  large  and  productive  fruit,  but 
lacking  in  flavor,  and  no  progress  toward  per¬ 
fection  that  can  be  discovered. 

Gutter. — Good  bearer,  good  size  and  flavor, 
rather  acid,  bright  color,  and  has  all  the  qualities 
desirable  in  a  market  fruit,  except  firmness. 

Scarlet  Magnate. — A  very  vigorous  vine,  but 
only  fair  bearer.  Fruit  soft  and  also  quite  acid. 


Monitor. — Large  size  and  prolific  bearer,  and 
a  showy  market  fruit.  Quality  fair. 

Green  Prolific. — This  is  one  of  the  parents  of 
the  Agriculturist,  and  like  that  is  a  strong  grower 
and  great  bearer,  but  is  rather  soft  and  acid. 

Crimson  Favorite. — A  very  vigorous  vine,  but 
a  poor  hearer.  The  fruit  is  large  and  of  excel¬ 
lent  quality. 

Gen.  Grant. — This  is  a  new  seedling  by  >Ir. 
Burgess  of  which  we  have  only  seen  a  few  ber¬ 
ries,  and  from  these  we  should  consider  it  a 
fruit  of  much  promise. 

Brooklyn  Scarlet. — A  very  fair  plant,  good 
bearer,  and  handsome  and  excellent  fruit. 

Col.  Ellsworth. — Large  in  size  and  indifferent 
in  quality,  but  a  very  showy  fruit. 

Barnes'  Seedling. — This  is  another  new  va¬ 
riety.  It  is  a  large  berry,  abundant  bearer, 
but  the  fruit  lacks  character. 

Heins'  Seedling. — Another  novelty,  and  a  seed¬ 
ling  of  the  Wilson,  upon  which  it  is  an  im¬ 
provement,  being  large,  of  good  shape,  and 
spirited  flavor. 

Useful  Things  in  the  Garden. 

A  number  of  garden  implements  have  been 
illustrated  in  the  Agriculturist  this  year,  but 
the  catalogue  of  them  is  not  yet  complete.  In 
the  choice  of  implements,  whether  for  hand  or 
horse  power,  it  is  a  matter  of  importance  to  se¬ 
lect  those  which  will  do  the  woik  tlioiougldy 
with  the  least  expenditure  of  force,  and  if  a  i<  w 
ounces  can  be  saved  in  the  weight,  or  the  amount 
of  resistance  to  be  overcome,  in  a  hand  imple¬ 
ment  for  the  garden,  it  is  a  great  gain.  A  cor¬ 
respondent,  “J.  M.,”  of  Montgomery  Co.,  Pa., 
sends  us  a  drawing  and  description  of  an  im¬ 
plement  which  he  considers  superior  to  any 
other  for  garden  uses.  It  is  not  new,  but  is  sold 
in  our  stores  as  a  hoe-fork,  or  potato-hook ;  still, 
as  it  may  be  new  to  many  readers,  we  give  an 
illustration  of  it  which  wilt  need  but  little  ex¬ 
planation.  The  curved  teeth  are  about  5  inches 
long,  and  filed  to  a  sharp  point.  Tliey  are  made 

with  4  and  5  teeth. 
It  is  used  by  some 
ofour  best  garden¬ 
ers  in  place  of 
the  common  hoe, 
to  which  they  con¬ 
sider  it  as  much 
superior  as  the 

spading  fork  is 

to  the  ordinary 
spade.  By  its 
use  the  soil  is 

worked  deeper 
than  can  be  done 
with  the  common 
hoe,  and  it  leaves 
the  surface  in  that 
finely  crumbled  condition  so  favorable  to 

growth.  Our  correspondent  says :  “  in  using 
it,  merely  drag  it  down  the  rows  and  if  those 
who  try  it  do  not  find  it  will  do  more  work 
than  any  other  description  of  weeder  their  ex¬ 
perience  will  be  different  from  mine.” 

One  who  has  tried  the  “Adams  Patent 

Weeding  Hoe,”  described  in  the  May  Agricul¬ 
turist.,  page  149,  recommends  it  highly  as  a  great 
labor-saving  implement  particularly  on  smooth 
ground.  With  it  the  ground  between  rows  of 
onions,  carrots,  beets,  etc.,  can  be  thoroughly 
cultivated  close  to  the  plants,  more  rapidly 
than  four  or  five  men  could  operate  with  com¬ 
mon  hoes.  At  this  rate  the  weeder  would  pay 
its  cost  in  a  very  short  time. 


Q30 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[July, 


The  Common  Groundsel. — Senedo  vulgaris. 


The  plant  of  which  an  illustration  is  here  giv¬ 
en,  is  a  native  of  Europe,  but  has  kept  pace 
with  emigration,  and  is  now  known  in  every 
country  settled  by  Europeans.  In  this  country 
it  is  not  very  common  in  the  newer  States,  but 
in  the  older  ones  it  is  quite  abundant.  Being  an 
annual,  it  can  not  be  regarded  as  a  very  trouble¬ 
some  weed,  and  none  but  a  very  careless  culti¬ 
vator  will  allow  it  to  overrun  the  soil.  In  prop¬ 
erly  kept  gardens  the  soil  should  not  lie  still 
long  enough  for  weeds  from  seeds  to  get  much 
of  a  foothold,  and  if  any  are  visible  they  are 
only  indications  that  the  soil  needs  to  be  stirred. 
The  engraving  gives  a  sufficiently  good  idea  of 
the  plant  without  much  description.  At  the 
lower  right-hand  side  a  head  of  flowers  is  shown 
ot  the  natural  size.  It  will  be  seen  to  be  much 
like  a  head  of  flowers  of  the  lettuce,  except 
that  while  the  small  flowers  in  that  are  all  flat, 
in  this  they  are  all  tubular.  They  both  belong 
to  the  same  great  family,  the  Compositce,  the 
fruit  in  which  is  so  frequently  furnished  with 
a  tuft  of  down  which  allows  it  to  be  carried 
from  place  to  place  by  the  wind.  The  seed  of 
the  Groundsel  is  dispersed  through  this  agency, 
and  in  order  to  keep  the  ground  clear  of  it,  it 
should  never  be  allowed  to  flower.  The  plant 
is  also  called  Siinson  in  England,  where  it  is 
used  in  domestiu  practice  and  as  a  medicine  for 


hots  in  horses.  It  probably  has  no  great  amount 
of  activity.  Birds  are  quite  fond  of  it,  and 
pieces  of  it  are  frequently  put  into  the  cages  of 
singing  birds.  The  generic  name,  Senedo  is 
from  Senex,  an  old  man,  the  crown  of  the  ripe 
heads  presenting  a  tuft  of  white  hairs;  the 
specific  name,  vulgans,  means  common. 


Among  the  Ehododendrons. 


Among  the  shrubs  cultivated  for  ornament, 
there  is  none  more  satisfactory  and  truly  ele¬ 
gant  than  the  hardy  Rhododendrons.  A  single 
plant  upon  the  lawn  produces  a  fine  effect,  and 
a  clump  of  them  of  various  colors  in  full  bloom 
is  something  magnificent.  Knowing  that  Par¬ 
sons  &  Co.,  of  Flushing,  L.  I.,  had  the  most  ex¬ 
tensive  collections  of  these  plants  in  the  coun- 
tiy,  we  visited  their  establishment  in  the  height  of 
their  bloom.  Probably  no  such  floral  show  can 
be  seen  elsewhere,  as  this  mass  of  thousands  of 
Rhododendrons,  with  colors  ranging  from  pure 
white  to  dark  purple.  Messrs.  Parsons  made  a 
trial  of  all  the  new  varieties  produced  in  Europe, 
and  have  succeeded  in  selecting  a  series  of  per¬ 
fectly  hardy  free  blooming  sorts  adapted  to  our 
climate, — for  it  is  frequently  the  case  that  those 
varieties  which  are  fine  in  Europe,  are  quite 
nnsuited  to  this  countiy.  Besides  importing 
the  best  European  seedlings,  they  have  raised 
many  themselves,  and  have  some  bf  their  own 
production  which  excel  any  of  the  imported 
ones.  Our  native  species  GatawUense  and  max- 
iimim,  crossed  with  the  foreign  Ponticum, 
Caucasicum  and  arhoreum.,  have  given  rise  to  a 
long  list  of  varieties  more  or  less  hardy.  The 
quality  of  the  leaf  is  of  as  much  importance  as 
that  of  the  flower,  as  it  is  only  those,  the  foliage 
of  which  will  endure  extremes  of  our  climate, 
that  can  be  recommended  for  cultivation.  Be¬ 
ing  broad-leaved  evergreens,  the  winter’s  sun  is 
very  hard  upon  them,  and  they  do  all  the  bet¬ 
ter  if  covered  during  the  winter  with  a  screen 
of  cedar  boughs,  or  a  thin  straw  thatch.  The 
Rhododendrons  need  a  light,  rich  soil,  free 
from  superfluous  moisture.  A  light,  sandy 
loam  with  plenty  of  leaf  mould,  suits  them  best. 
Unfortunately  for  their  general  introduction, 
the  plants  are  of  such  difficult  propagation  and 
slow  growth,  that  cultivators  are  obliged  to  sell 
them  at  a  rather  high  price.  The  finer  sorts 
bring  $2  and  upwards  each,  while  the  common 
maximum  is  sold  at  about  half  the  price. 


The  Blight  of  the  Pear  Tree. 


Every  summer  we  are  in  the  receipt  of  nu¬ 
merous  letters  enclosing  blackened  leaves  of 
the  pear  tree,  accompanied  usually  by  the  state¬ 
ment  that  a  tree,  apparently  in  full  vigor,  has 
been  suddenly  attacked,  and  a  part  or  the  whole 
of  it  killed.  So  sudden  and  so  thorough  is  the 
work  of  destruction,  that  many  are  led  to  attri¬ 
bute  it  to  some  deleterious  matter  in  the  soil. 
This  disease  or  blight  is  one  of  the  most  serious 
drawbacks  to  pear  culture,  and  has  received 
attention  from  several  close  observers.  In 
some  cases  the  trouble  is  caused  by  a  borer, 
which  comes  from  an  egg  laid  near  the  bud, 
and  penetrating  the  stem,  soon  causes  the  limb 
to  perish.  The  injury  seldom  extends  much 
below  the  point  at  which  the  insect  enters,  and 
the  dead  branch  may  be  removed  and  burned. 
The  most  common  form  of  blight  is  not  pro¬ 
duced  by  an  insect,  but  is  attributed  to  the 
effect  of  early  frosts,  in  autumn,  upon  the  un¬ 
ripened  wood ;  hence  it  has  received  the  name 
of  “  fi'ozen  sap  blight.”  It  has  been  found  to 


occur  most  frequently  when  early  frosts  occur 
after  a  warm  autumn.  This  being  the  alleged 
cause  of  the  disease,  it  is  obvious  that  the  means 
of  preventing  it  are  to  select  such  situations 
and  give  the  tree  such  treatment  as  will  induce 
it  to  ripen  its  wood  so  early  that  it  cannot  be 
affected  by  sudden  atmospheric  changes.  A 
wet  soil  and  over-manuring  will,  especiall3'  u) 
a  warm  autumn,  cause  the  tree  to  remain  in  a 
growing  state  much  longer  than  if  it  weie  plant¬ 
ed  in  a  dry  situation.  A  well  drained,  rich 
soil  is  most  free  from  blight,  though  even  here 
the  very  vigorous  sorts  may  be  attacked  by  it. 
Root  pruning  has  been  recommended  to  check 
luxuriant  growth,  and  would  doubtless  be  ben 
eficial.  When  the  attack  is  but  slight,  the  tree 
will-  usually  recover  if  the  deceased  limbs  be 
removed,  cutting  them  below  the  point  to 
which  the  wood  is  discolored.  Dr.  Kirtland, 
whose  suggestions  are  entitled  to  respectful 
consideration,  regaiKls  the  disease  as  one  pro¬ 
per  for  medication,  and  has  recommended  the 
application  of  iron  to  the  soil  and  to  the  leaves 
and  branches  of  the  tree.  He  proposes  the 
use  of  blacksmiths’  cinders  about  the  roots,  and 
sprinkling  the  tree  with  a  solution  of  sulphate 
of  iron  (copperas).  How  far  it  is  in  our  power 
to  benefit  trees  by  introducing  into  their  circu 
lation  articles  not  demanded  by  their  growth, 
is  a  matter  upon  which  we  have  little  or  no 
positive  knowledge,  and  is  an  interesting  field 
for  careful  experiareut. 


A  Sport  of  the  Rose. 


Some  months  ago  we  gave  an  engraving  and 
description  of  the  Green  Rose,  in  which  the  pet¬ 
als  are  replaced  by  ordinary  leaves;  sve  now 
have  an  illustration  of  a  avMe  common,  but  equal 
ly  striking  departure  fir.ta  the  ordinary  way  of 
things,  in  which  one  ro.sv  appears  as  growing 
out  of  another.  It  is  not  r.'  .re  to  find  roses  with 

ft  bud  pro¬ 
duced  from 
the  center, 
but  we  have 
never  met 
wfith  one  in 
which  the  ab¬ 
normal  con¬ 
dition  was 
so  strongly 
marked  as  in 
that  repre¬ 
sented  in  the 
engra  v  ing, 
from  a  sketch 
by  “W.  L. 
G.,”  of  Wal¬ 
lace,  Ind.  In 
floM-ers  gen¬ 
erally,  the 
parts  are 
crowded  up¬ 
on  a  recepta¬ 
cle,  which  is 
the  end  of  the 
stem,  and  iv 
rounded  o^ 
or  enlarged  to  accommodate  them.  The  stem 
usually  terminates  within  the  flower  and  it  does 
not  often  grow  beyond  it.  In  these  sports  ol 
the  rose  the  stem  seems  to  be  endowed  with 
unusual  vigor,  and  not  contented  to  stop  when 
it  has  borne  a  flower,  it  continues  its  growth 
and  produces  leaves  and  another  flowei-.  In 
the  present  case  the  growth  was  so  vigorous 
that  a  second  rose  expanded  above  the  first  one 


1865.J 


931 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


\)efoie  its  petals  liacl  fallen,  and  a  strong  shoot 
pushing  from  the  center  of  the  second  one. 
Our  correspondent  mentions  tliat  green  leaves 
were  found  mixed  with  the  petals,  and  that 
some  were  found  partly  leaf  and  partly  petal.  A 
careful  observer  will  find  many  examples  of 
abnormal  conditions  of  vegetable  growth,  and 
they  are  worth}’-  of  examination,  as  they  fre¬ 
quently  give  one  a  clearer  insight  into  the  real 
structure  of  flowers  and  other  parts  of  the 
plant,  than  we  can  derive  from  examining  them 
in  the  perfect  state,  in  which  we  usually  see  them. 

TME  M®ltJ§E!l(0)LIQ). 

Vinegar  Making. 

Vinegar,  so  useful  in  the  household,  is  prepared 
from  various  materials,  but  whatever  is  used,  or 
however  the  process  of  mauufacturo,  its  production 
in  all  eases  depends  upon  the  conversion  of  alco¬ 
hol  into  acetic  acid,  or  the  acid  of  vinegar.  Though 
the  iiquid  used  may  not  at  first  contain  alcohol,  it 
must  liave  those  principles  from  which  it  may  be 
produced  and  alcoiiol  is  formed  in  the  process  be¬ 
fore  tile  iiquid  becomes  vinegar.  This  is  the  case 
where  fruit  juices  or  solutions  of  sugar  of  any  kind 
arc  used  for  vinegar  ;  the  change  is  first  to  prodnee 
alcohol  from  the  sugar,  and  then  to  convert  the  al¬ 
cohol  so  formed  into  acetic  acid.  Without  going 

into  the  chemi¬ 
cal  changes,  this 
is  in  brief  what 
takes  place,  and 
the  essentials  in 
vinegar  making 
are :  a  liquid 
containing  alco¬ 
hol,  or  some  ma¬ 
terial  that  will 
produce  alcohol, 
a  ferment  of 
some  kind,  a  suf¬ 
ficient  tempera¬ 
ture  and  a  free 
admission  of  air. 
As  the  conversion  of  alcohol  into  acetic  acid  is 
the  result  of  oxidation,  the  presence  of  the  oxy¬ 
gen  of  the  air  is  quite  important,  and  other  things 
being  equal,  whatever  tends  to  promote  free  con¬ 
tact  of  the  air  and  the  liquid,  very  much  hastens 
the  formation  of  vinegar.  In  apple,  grape,  and  oth¬ 
er  fruit  juices,  we  have  a  solution  of  the  sugar  of 
the  fruits,  which  at  the  proper  temperature  readily 
undergoes  fermentation  ;  alcohol  is  produced  from 
the  sugar,  and  a  weak  mixture  of  alcohol  and  wa¬ 
ter,  in  the  form  of  cider  or  wine,  is  the  result.  This 
liquid  if  left  to  itself  for  some  months,  will  at 
length  contain  no  alcohol,  but  be  changed  to  vine¬ 
gar.  In  the  case  of  fruit  juices  no  ferment  is  ad¬ 
ded  as  they  contain  a  natural  ferment,  though  vin¬ 
egar  is  formed  much  sooner  if  some  old  vinegar,  or 
mother  of  vinegar,  be  added.  Vinegar  prepared 
from  fruit  juices  contains,  besides  acetic  acid  and 
water,  various  coloring  matters,  as  well  as  peculiar 
flavoring  principles  ;  these,  while  they  are  not  ob¬ 
jectionable  for  table  uses — indeed  rather  improve 
it — render  it  less  fit  for  pickling,  as  the  pickles 
have  a  less  fine  appearance  and  do  not  keep  so  well. 
Very  pure  and  colorless  vinegar  is  made  directly 
from  whiskey,  or  some  other  form  of  alcohol,  and 
t  is  this  which  is  found  in  the  market  as  “  white 
wine  vinegar.”  In  making  vinegar  from  alcohol 
a  vat  is  used  of  the  form  shown  in  the  accompany¬ 
ing  figure.  It  may  be  either  a  vat  built  for  the 
purpose  or  a  very  tall  cask.  They  are  made  from 
6  to  12  feet  high,  and  we  have  seen  the  vats  made 
of  two  casks  put  together,  with  the  junction  made 
tight  by  caulking.  About  a  foot  from  the  bottom 
of  the  vat  are  6  or  8  half  inch  holes,  bored  with  a 
downward  slant  so  that  a  liquid  trickling  down  the 
sides  of  the  cask  will  not  run  out,  and  an  inch  or 
two  above  ths  holes,  a  false  bottom  is  placed  in 
which  are  bored  numerous  %  inch  holes.  The  cask 


is  filled  with  beech-wood  shavings  to  witliin  about 
a  foot  or  16  indies  of  the  top.  Six  or  eight  inches 
below  tile  top  of  the  vat  is  fixed  a  platform,  or  cross 
partition,  in  wliich  holes  arc  regulariy  placed,  atlj^ 
inches  apart.  These  arc  about  lT2th  of  an  incli 
in  diameter,  and  burned  out  so  tliat  tliey  will  re¬ 
main  free.  This  partition  is  put  in  place  and  the 
joint  between  it  and  the  sides  of  the  vat  made  tight 
by  caulking.  Pieces  of  twine  are  put  into  the  holes 
in  the  partition  in  such  a  manner  that  the  liquid, 
when  poured  upon  it,  will  trickle  through  in  drops. 
Four  tubes  of  glass  or  of  cane,  %  of  an  incli  in  di¬ 
ameter,  are  set  in  holes  in  the  partition  ;  these  do 
not  project  below,  but  above  they  reach  to  within 
an  incli  of  the  top  of  the  vat,  which  is  closed  by  a 
tight  cover  having  an  opening  to  admit  the  liquid. 
A  thermometer  is  inserted  in  a  hole  in  the  vat,  0 
inches  below  the  partition,  so  arranged  that  the 
internal  temperature  may  be  inspected.  A  wooden 
faucet  is  placed  near  the  bottom  of  the  vat,  and  a 
glass  tube,  curved  in  the  form  of  a  gooseneck,  is 
placed  with  its  bend  below  the  row  of  air  holes. 
The  shavings  are  boiled  in  good  vinegar  before  they 
are  packed  in  the  vat,  and  after  all  is  ready,  the  vat 
is  brought  into  fermentation  by  the  use  of  a  mix¬ 
ture  of  one-fiflh  vinegar  and  four-fifths  of  a  3  per 
cent,  mixture  of  alcohol  and  water.  This  liquid  is 
heated  to  75°  or  80°,  and  poured  into  the  vat  and 
allowed  to  trickle  through  the  shavings.  The  same 
liquid  with  the  addition  of  more  alcohol  is  warmed 
and  passed  through  the  next  day,  and  so  on  until 
fermentation  is  well  established,  and  the  tempera¬ 
ture  within  the  vat  has  reached  to  about  100°,  when 
it  is  ready  to  commence  the  process  of  manufirctur- 
ing  vinegar.  The  liquid  used  consists  of  28)^  gal¬ 
lons  of  -u’aterji  gallons  of  vinegar,  and  10  quarts  of 
80  per  cent,  alcohol.  This,  in  passing  through  the 
vat,  becomes  converted  into  vinegar,  and  the  process 
may  be  made  continuous.  In  practice,  two  vats  are 
used,  and  the  liquid,  with  only  a  portion  of  the  al¬ 
cohol,  is  passed  through  the  first  vat,  after  which 
the  remainder  of  the  alcohol  is  added  to  it,  and  the 
process  completed  by  passing  it  through  the  sec¬ 
ond.  The  present  high  price  of  all  alcoholic  liquids 
will  probably  prevent  many  from  experimenting  in 
this  direction,  and  this  general  outline  of  the  pro¬ 
cess  is  given  in  answer  to  numerous  requests  for 
information  respecting  the  manufacture  of  pickling 
vinegar.  This  account  is  made  mostly  from  our 
own  observation,  while  the  measurements  of  the 
vat,  etc.,  are  taken  from  “The  Manufacture  of  Vin¬ 
egar,”  by  Doct.  C.  M.  Wetherill,  a  book  which 
gives  all  the  practical  details  of  the  process. 


Coloring  Cheese. 

The  color  of  cheese  sometimes  exerts  a  greater 
influence  than  the  flavor,  in  securing  a  ready  sale. 
Most  people  reject  a  pale,  light-colored  cheese ; 
and  choose  those  that  have  a  golden  color  like  rich 
cream,  as  this  is  a  supposed  characteristic  of  an  ex¬ 
cellent  article.  A  light-colored  cheese  may  possess 
all  the  richness  of  one  that  is  as  yellow  as  gold ; 
indeed,  they  may  both  be  alike  in  quality  ;  and  still 
the  golden-colored  one  will  be  pronounced  best, 
and  command  the  highest  price.  So  much  docs  a 
good  color  enhance  the  value  of  cheese  in  most 
markets.  In  order  to  secure  the  desired  color,  it  is 
customary  to  employ  Annatto,  but  it  may  be  done 
without.  Let  the  curd  remain  in  the  vat,  spread 
out  as  much  as  practicable,  until  it  is  of  the  right 
temperature  to  be  put  into  the  hoop.  By  allowing 
it  to  remain  exposed  to  the  atmosphere  while  it  is 
cooling,  instead  of  dashing  cold  whey,  or  water  on 
it — as  is  sometimes  done — the  rich  creamy  color 
may  be  secured  without  the  use  of  any  coloring 
matter.  By  this  means,  all  the  good  flavor  and 
richness  will  be  retained ;  whereas,  when  the  curd 
is  washed,  more  or  less  of  the  valuable  portions  of 
it  are  removed  by  the  whey.  If  the  curd  be  ex¬ 
posed  to  the  air  in  this  manner,  the  cheese  will  be 
of  auniform  color  throughout.  Then  if  cured  with 
care  and  the  rind  kept  smooth  by  not  .allowing  the 
outside  to  dry  faster  than  the  inside  shrinks,  a  small 
quantity  of  annatto  applied  to  the  surface  will  im¬ 
part  a  very  good  color  to  the  exterior. 


Fig.  1. — CITRON  FLOWER  AND  FRUIT. 

Wliat  is  Citron? 

B}'  citron  wo  do  not  mean  tliat  variety  of  water¬ 
melon  which  in  itself  is  a  hard  green  and  tasteless 
thing,  but  whieli  by  the  addition  of  snflicient  sugar 
and  flavoring,  is  sometimes  made  to  serve  as  a 
sweetmeat,  but  tliat  dark,  fragrant,  candied  citron 
■which  is  found  in  tlio  stores,  and  wliicli  liousckeep- 
ers  use  when  they  wisli  to  acliievo  sometliing  unu¬ 
sual  in  tlie  way  of  cakes.  The  citron  of  tlie  shops 
is  the  candied  rind  of  a  fruit  closely  related  to  tlie 
orange  and  lemon — the  Ciirua  medica.  Tlie  tree, 
which  is  of  medium  size,  is  a  native  of  Asia,  and  is 
now  cultivated  in  the  warm  climates  generally. 
The  fruit  is  in  general  shape  like  the  lemon,  but 
very  rough  and  knobby  on  the  surface.  It  is  quite 
large  and  is  said  to  sometimes  attain  to  the  weight 
of  twenty  pounds.  The  rind  is  remarkably  thick 
and  out  of  all  proportion  to  the  size  of  the  pulp. 
The  shape  of  the  fruit  is  shown  in  the  above  engrav¬ 
ing,  and  a  section,  fig. 

2,  shows  the  relation 
which  the  rind  and 
pulp  bear  to  one  an¬ 
other.  The  pulp  is 
very  acid,  like  that  of 
the  lemon,  and  the 
outer  portion  of  tlie 
rind  contains  numer¬ 
ous  little  receptacles  Fig.  2.— section  of  fruit. 
filled  with  an  aromatic  oil  which  communicates 
its  flavor  to  the  preserve,  and  is  also  extract¬ 
ed  for  use  in  perfumery.  The  rind  is  iireserved  in 
syrup,  dried  and  packed  in  boxes  for  exiiorfation. 
It  is  said  that  the  rind  is  sometiincs  imiiortcd, 
pickled  in  salt  and  watei',  and  candied  alter  it  readi¬ 
es  here.  Tlie  Citron  is  mentioned  by  Pliny  and 
other  ancient  writers,  and  it  is  supposed  to  be  the 
fruit  calledapple  in  our  translation  oftlie  Scriptures. 

Summer  Drinks. 


Many  wish  something  other  than  water  durfng 
the  hot  days  of  summer,  and  there  are  many  drinks 
in  use  which  serve  to  allay  tliirst  more  readily  than 
the  same  amount  of  pure  water.  All  of  these  imp- 
ular  beverages  contain  vegetable  acids  in  a  dilute, 
state,  and  these,  when  taken  in  moderation,  are 
both  cooling  and  tonic.  The  very  general  use  of 
lemonade,  which  may  be  taken  as  a  type  of  these 
drinks,  is  due  to  something  more  tlian  its  agreeable 
taste,  and  is  popular  testimony  to  the  refrigerant 
property  of  citric  acid.  The  citric  acid  of  tlie  lemon, 
qualified  by  sugar,  and  flavored  with  the  oil  from 
the  rind,  more  or  less  of  which  becomes  mixed 
with  the  iuice  in  the  process  of  squeezing,  forma 
lemonade.  This  may  be  imitated  and  the  compo¬ 
nent  parts  put  up  in  a  dry  form,  as  in  Morris’  Con- 


333 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[JULT, 


centrated  Lemonade,  which  we  have  before  noticed 
as  a  most  convenient  substitute  for  fresh  lemons. 
Those  wlio  live  where  lemons  arc  not  ol)tainable, 
or  where  they  are  too  expensive,  mahe  use  of  s’ub- 
stitutes.  A  kind  of  “  switchel  ”  is  made  in  some  lo¬ 
calities,  which  serves  as  a  very  good  summer  drink, 
and  is  much  used  in  tlie  hay  field.  It  is  made  of 
vinegar,  molasses  and  water,  and  flavored  with 
ginger — a  homely  substitute  for  lemonade,  but 
very  good  and  much  better  than  many  things  tliat 
are  drank.  Some  of  the  acid  fruits  may  be  made  to 
furnish  cooling  and  pleasant  beverages,  and  we 
allude  to  the  matter  now  to  suggest  providing 
a  stock  for  another  summer.  Currants,  dried  as 
described  in  another  article,  will  be  found  very  con¬ 
venient,  as  their  acid  is  very  refreshing,  and  a  large 
supply  may  be  put  up  with  very  little  expenditure 
for  sugar.  Where  the  Barberry  is  common,  a  most 
excellent  material  for  summer  beverages  may  be 
stored  up.  The  fruit  simply  preserved  in  sugar, 
makes  a  sort  of  conserve,  whicli,  infused  in  boiling 
water  gives  a  palatable  drink;  but  tlie  best  w.ay  is 
to  make  a  syrup  by  boiling  the  fruit  in  water  and 
convert  the  strained  liquid  iuto  syrup  by  adding  a 
pound  and  a  lialf  of  sugar  to  the  pint.  If  bottled 
and  set  in  a  cool  place  it  will  keep  a  long  time. 
Added  to  water  in  pal.atable  quantity,  it  is  not  only 
pleasant  in  health  but  very  useful  as  a  drink  in 
fevers.  Raspberry  Vinegar  or  Raspberry  Shrub  is 
one  of  the  pleasant  and  nice  articles  that  can  be 
made  in  the  family.  Raspberries  are  placed  in  a 
jar  and  covered  with  strong  vinegar,  and  set  in  a 
cool  place  for  34  hours.  The  next  day  as  many 
more  berries  arc  added  as  the  vinegar  will  cover, 
and  so  for  a  third  day.  After  the  last  berries  have 
been  in  fora  day,  set  the  jar  in  a  kettle  of  water, 
and  bring  it  to  a  scald,  and  then  strain  out  the  juice 
througli  a  flannel.  Add  one  pound  of  white  sugar 
to  each  l}4  pint  of  juice,  and  heat  in  a  tin  or  por¬ 
celain  vessel  to  the  boiling  point,  skim,  and  bottle. 
Do  not  boil  any  longer  than  necessary  to  remove 
the  scum.  Thus  prepared  it  will  keep  for  years. 

- - »  t  —I  o  tJ—  ►  — - — 

Soap  and  Soap-Making. 


A  “  Housekeeper  ”  writes  to  the  Agriculturist  ; 
“As  the  season  has  arrived  for  making  this  neces¬ 
sary  article  of  domestic  use  among  farmers,  I  wish 
to  offer  a  few  suggestions  and  relate  a  little  of  my 
experience  in  that  line.  Like  most  new  house¬ 
keepers  I  thought  it  did  not  require  any  great 
amount  of  skill  or  experimental  knowledge  to 
make  soap— for,  thought  I— there  is  nothing  more 
natural  than  for  oil  and  alkali  to  unite.  So  every 
thing  all  ready,  in  the  “  New  of  the  Moon  ”  I  com¬ 
menced  operations.  But  my  lye  and  grease  would 
not  combine  in  spite  of  all  my  efforts.  So  I  repair¬ 
ed  to  an  old  housekeeper  to  divine  the  cause.  “0  !” 
said  she,  “You  did  not  make  in  the  new  of  the 
moon.”  Yes  I  did  though  !  I  made  the  same  day 
that  many  of  my  neighbors  made,  and  they  had 
“  good  luck.”  Then  she  assigned  several  other  rea¬ 
sons  as  foolish  as  that.  In  my  school-days  I  had 
picked  up  a  little  Chemistry.  While  reflecting 
upon  it  I  concluded  that  some  other  substance  must 
be  in  the  mixture  that  prevented  it  from  uniting. 
And  here  I  would  remark  that  if  farmers’  daugh¬ 
ters,  and  young  ladies  generally,  would  study  less 
Algebra  and  other  (to  them)  comparatively  useless 
branches,  and  turn  their  attention  more  to  Chemis¬ 
try,  Nat.  Philosophy,  Botany,  etc.,  they  would  find 
it  of  far  more  practical  benefit.  So  while  I  pon¬ 
dered,  it  appeared  to  me  that  even  if  the  moon  had 
some  influence  upon  animal  and  vegetable  life,  she 
certainly  could  not  control  oils  and  alkalies.  Fi¬ 
nally,  another  individual  told  me  to  “put  water  in 
it  and  the  soap  would  come.”  I  did  so,  but  that 
made  it  very  weak.  After  diligent  inquiry  and 
many  absurd  reasons  “why  the  soap  would  not 
come,”  I  at  last  ascertained  that  the  woman  who 
assisted  in  trying  the  lard,  etc.,  at  “  killing  time  ” 
had  salted  tlie  grease  profusely!  So  it  was  the  salt 
tliat  prevented  the  oil  and  alkali  from  uniting. 
Putting  in  water  weakened  the  solution.  The  result 
was, — in  common  parlance — “the  soap  come.”  I 
would  say  to  all  housekeepers — old  and  young. 


keep  salt  out  of  your  grease  as  much  as  possible 
if  you  would  have  no  dilliculty  in  making  soap. 
The  best  way  for  kceiiing  the  grease  for  tliat  pur¬ 
pose  is  to  have  a  vessel  of  weak  lye  iuto  wliicli 
the  gre.asecan  be  dropped  as  fast  as  it  accumulates. 
Their  it  is  safe  from  mold,  rats  and  worms.” 


Strawberry  Time  in  New  York. 


A  stranger  visiting  New  York  for  the  first  time 
in  the  month  of  June,  would  think  that  a  large  part 
of  the  community  were  engaged  in  either  selling, 
buying,  or  eating  strawberries.  The  markets  and 
stores  are  crowded  with  them  ;  traveling  venders 
hawk  them  through  the  streets ;  passengers  in  cars 
and  on  foot  carry  baskets  of  them  ;  signs  hang  across 
tile  street  announcing  strawberry  short-cake;  all 
tliese  as  well  as  the  exhibitions  of  the  fruit  at  the 
office  of  the  Agriculturist,  and  the  rooms  of  the 
American  Institute,  indicate  New  York  believes  in 
strawberries.  Early  in  spring,  the  windows  of  the 
restaurants  show  fruit  raised  under  glass,  which 
tliose  who  don’t  mind  expense  may  taste — the 
general  public  can  only  look  at  it — but  it  satisfies 
them  to  know  that  strawberries  are  coming.  In 
May,  the  southern  counties  of  New  Jersey  send 
along  their  tribute  of  fruit,  but  very  little  of  it 
gets  into  the  mouth  of  the  great  public,  and  it  is 
only  when  the  warm  suns  of  June  are  felt,  that 
the  fimit  becomes  abundant  and  cheap  enough  for 
everybody  to  have  some.  The  best  fruit,  sent  with 
care  in  neat  boxes,  never  gets  very  cheap,  and  is 
only  sold  by  the  regular  dealers,  while  the  more 
common  varieties  in  smalt  baskets  holding  from  a 
wine-glass-ful  to  a  half  pint,  are  sold  by  the  venders 
who  traverse  the  most  I'emote  streets.  “  Here 
they  air,  three  cents  a  bairskit” — (with  a  long 
drawl  on  the  “  a-i  r,”  for  the  regular  vender  never 
says  basket)  is  heard  from  morning  till  night. 
These  venders  are  great  institutions  ;  a  two-forty 
($3.40)  horse,  a  rickety  wagon,  a  rough  looking 
man  with  a  strong  voice,  and  one  or  two  small  boys 
with  shrill,  high  voices,  make  up  the  establishment. 
If  one  goes  to  the  market  or  grocers,  and  buys  ber¬ 
ries,  he  will  soon  after  reaching  home  hear  the  ven¬ 
ders,  offering  them  for  a  cent  or  two  less  by  the 
basket  than  he  has  just  paid — but  let  him  buy  of  the 
peddler  and  he  will  find  that  a  baiVskit  is  a  very  in¬ 
definite  quantity.  There  are  tricks  even  in  the  ven¬ 
ders’  trade,  and  if  one  has  the  curiosity  to  know  how 
berries  can  be  retailed  at  wholesale  prices,  he  must 
go  to  Washington  market  early  in  the  morning, 
when  the  dealers  get  their  supplies,  and  he  will 
see  how  two  baskets  as  put  up  by  the  grower  are 
turned  into  three  in  the  hands  of  the  vender,  by 
either  transferring  to  smaller  baskets  kept  for  the 
purpose,  or  by  a  judicious  division  and  shaking  up 
of  the  ordinary  baskets.  The  fruit  in  good  seasons 
is  reasonably  cheap,  but  we  wish  that  it  might  be 
stiii  cheaper,  so  that  the  poorer  people  could  get  a 
chance  at  this  great  luxury  without  being  obliged 
to  pay  even  as  much  as  “  Three  cents  a  bairskit.” 
- - - - - - 

Preserving  Currants. 


Generally  those  who  have  currants  at  .all,  have  so 
many  that  they  cannot  well  be  used  in  the  fresh 
state,  and  many  go  to  w.aste,  consequently  we  have 
frequent  inquiries  how  they  can  be  dried  and  made 
like  those  sold  in  the  stores.  We  h.ave  more  than 
once  stated  in  the  “Basket”  th.at  the  imported 
fruit  was  not  a  currant,  but  a  very  sm.all  kind  of 
grape,  and  that  there  was  no  process  by  which  the 
currant  we  cultivate  could  be  converted  into  a  sim¬ 
ilar  preserve.  There  is  a  way,  however,  in  which 
curnants  can  be  preserved  without  the  use  of  so 
much  sugar  as  is  required  in  m.aking  jelly.  Last 
summer  we  saw  a  quantity  put  up  by  a  lady  for  the 
use  of  the  soldiers,  and  it  seemed  to  us  the  best 
thing  that  could  be  made  from  the  fruit.  It  w.as 
prepared  in  this  way :  Seven  pounds  of  currants 
were  cooked  with  one  pound  of  sug.ar  until  the 
berries  were  well  broken  up,  the  whole  was  then 
put  upon  a  colander  and  dr.ained,  and  the  juice 
which  was  obtained  in  this  way  put  again  over  the 


tire  and  cvajioralcd  to  a  thick  syi'Up.  Tlie  curr.ants 
whicli  remained  upon  tlie  colander  were  then  put 
into  tills  syrup  and  cooked  as  dry  as  jiracticable 
witliout  scorcliing.  Tliis  was  tlicn  spread  upon 
plates  and  put  in  tlie  sun  to  dry.  Usually  the 
upper  surface  dries  in  one  day  sufficient  to  allow 
the  mass  to  be  cut  in  small  pieces  and  turned; 
tlie  drying  is  continued  until  tlie  pieces  will  not 
stick  together.  Pi'cpared  thus  it  will  keep  well  il 
packed  in  a  box  in  a  dry  place,  and  is  most  excel¬ 
lent  for  making  a  refreshing  drink,  as  it  has  all  the 
grateful  acid  of  the  fruit  without  the  accompani¬ 
ment  of  an  excess  of  sugar.  By  soaking  this  dried 
fruit  and  cooking  it  witli  more  sugar,  an  atfreeable 
preserve  may  be  made  for  the  labia.  In  making 
jelly  the  currants  should  not  be  over  ripe,  a.?  taken 
when  fairly  red  they  give  a  better  quality  of  jelly, 
and  do  not  require  so  mucli  boiling.  It  is  much 
better  to  squeeze  the  juice  from  the  currants  be¬ 
fore  cooking,  than  it  is  to  cook  liotli  sugar  and  cur¬ 
rants  together  and  then  strain.  In  obtaining  the 
juice,  a  clothes  wringer,  now  found  in  every  well 
regulated  household,  will  save  a  great  de.al  of  labor. 
The  berries  are  put  rather  loosely  into  a  bag  and 
the  whole  passed  between  the  rollers  of  the 
wringer.  The  amount  of  sugar  varies  according  to 
the  character  of  the  currants  and  individual  taste, 
from  1  pound  to  1  pound  3  oz.  to  tlie  pint  of  juice. 
The  juice  is  boiled  or  simmered  and  skimmed  be¬ 
fore  adding  the  sugar,  and  tlien  the  evaporation 
continued  until  it  will  harden  ujion  cooling.  Upon 
this  point  no  precise  directions  can  be  given,  as 
juice  from  currants  .at  the  right  stage  of  ripeness 
will  form  a  jelly  with  scarcely  .any  boiling,  while 
that  from  riper  berries  will  require  to  be  boiled  l.'i 
minutes  or  longer.  This  is  a  point  which  cxjie- 
ricnce  only  can  determine. 

^ 

A  Home-made  Hearth  Rug. 


A  lady  subscriber  to  the  American  Agriculturin 
writes:  “Procure  a  coffee  sack,  tack  it  tightly  on 
a  frame  of  the  size  you  wish  your  rug.  Get  a  bkack 
smith  to  make  you  a  crochet-needle  about  the  size 
of  a  husking-peg,  tapering  rather  more.  With  char¬ 
coal  and  rule  ‘lay  out’  on  the  sack  the  figure  you 
wish  for  your  rug.  G.ather  all  the  old  woolen  rags 
such  as  are  too  much  worn  for  carpet,  ‘Thrums, 
bits  of  wool,  etc.  Tear  these  in  strips  and  with 
the  hook  in  the  right  hand,  hold  the  strip  beneath 
in  the  left,  thrust  the  hook  through  the  meshes  ol 
the  stick,  c.atch  the  r.ag  .and  pull  it  through  about 
a  half  inch,  then  through  again  as  netir  to  the  first 
as  possible.  By  sorting  the  different  colors  and 
following  the  patterns,  a  very  beautiful  article  can 
be  m.ade.  After  it  is  all  filled  up  in  this  way,  take 
a  pair  of  sheep-shears  or  common  scissors,  large 
size,  and  shear  it  all  off  to  an  even  surface.  Old 
dresses  are  the  best;  heavy  cloth  will  not  work  in 
well.  I  have  seen  such  rugs  in  handsome  parlors, 
and  when  tastefully  made  they  arc  equal  to  any.” 

Cooking  without  a  Fire. 

In  summer,  it  is  a  great  comfort  to  be  able  to  do 
most  of  the  necessary  cooking  without  a  lire,  we 
don’t  say  without  heat — for  we  haven’t  reached  that 
pointas  yet — but  without  makinga  fire  in  the  stove, 
generating  many  times  more  heat  than  is  nccessarj’, 
thus  rendering  the  apartment  uncomfortable,  the 
cook  overheated,  and  it  m.ay  be  cross.  Some  one 
has  said  that  all  hum.an  aflcctions  cease  to  exist 
above  or  below  a  cert.ain  degree  of  the  thermome¬ 
ter,  and  it  must  indeed  be  more  than  an  ordinary 
mortal  who  can  cook  over  a  large  Are  on  a  hot 
July  day,  and  remain  perfectly  sweet  tempered  and 
lovely.  Now  as  a  saver  of  temper,  and  in  m.auy 
places  of  fuel,  as  well  as  a  promoter  of  comfort, 
we  remind  our  readers,  of  what  we  have  before  al¬ 
luded  to,  that  a  good  amount  of  the  fiimily  cook¬ 
ing  can  be  done  by  me.ans  of  kerosene  or  gas.  In 
those  loc.alitics  where  g.as  is  in  use,  a  small  gas  stove 
will  prepare  breakfast  .and  tea  with  the  gre.atcst 
ease  and  comfort.  Some  families  use  large  gas 
stoves  for  all  their  summer  cooking,  but  we  h.ave 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Q23 


not  had  sufflcient  experience  in  this  to  say  whctlicr 
cooking  requiring  a  long  application  of  heat  can 
be  done  witli  economy.  But  most  people  are  be¬ 
yond  the  reach  of  gas  pipes,  and  for  them  a  kero¬ 
sene  stove  answers  an  excellent  purpose.  We  used, 
last  summer,  one  made  by  Lesley  &  Elliott,  who 
also  make  gas  stoves  and  found  it  very  convenient, 
especially;  at  tea  tin  e  when  there  is  seldom  any 
need  of  heat  beyond  that  necessary  to  boil  a  kettle 
of  water.  The  apparatus  consists  of  a  small  iron 
stove  with  a  large  kerosene  lamp  having  three 
wicks,  over  which  a  teakettle,  spider  or  saucepan 
can  be  placed,  and  the  whole  thing  can  stand  on 
the  kitchen  table  or  dresser,  and  be  put  out  of 
sight  when  not  in  use.  The  only  especial  care  re¬ 
quired  in  the  use  of  kerosene  is,  to  see  that  the 
wicks  are  not  so  high  as  to  cause  smoking,  and 
with  the  gas,  to  so  regulate  the  flame  as  not  to  burn 
more  than  is  needed.  Any  person  with  ordinary 
tact  will  And  either  of  these  methods  of  cooking  a 
comfort  in  hot  weather,  while  others,  who  don’t 
believe  in  new-fangled  notions,  and  start  with  a 
prejudice  against  them  because  they  are  new,  will 
probably  manage  to  make  them  unsuccessful. 


Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 


SSreatl. — One  pint  mashed  potatoes,  one  tea- 
spoonful  salt,  and  one  of  sugar.  (The  potatoes 
should  be  much  wetter  than  for  the  table.)  Add 
one  teaenpful  of  y^ast,  either  home  or  baker’s,  but 
not  a  bit  of  flour.  Keep  this  very  warm  till  light. 
Use  this  to  mix  the  bread,  and  mix  so  that  it  will 
Just  not  stick.  Let  It  rise  very  light,  then  mould 
into  tins;  keep  very  warm  till  light  again,  and 
bake  in  a  moderately  warm  oven.  I  have  made 
good  bread  in  this  way  from  flour  not  fit  to  eat 
without  he  potatoes. 

Stca-Mied  Coi-m  15rca«l.— Mix  thorough¬ 
ly  1  cup  of  sweet,  and  2  of  sour  milk,  3  of  corn 
meal,  2  of  flour,  1  of  syrup  or  molasses,  and  one 
teaspoonful  of  soda.  Place  it  in  a  pan  and  steam 
it  over  boiling  water  steadily  for  three  hours. 

BSiitter  Craclcers.— “  K.,”  of  Rensselaer 
Co.,  N.  Y.,  sends  the  following :  Take  10  cups 
flour  and  1  of  butter,  1  teaspoonful  of  soda,  and  2 
of  cream  tartar,  with  water  enough  to  form  a  very 
stiff  dough ;  rub  the  butter  and  cream  of  tartar 
through  the  flour,  and  dissolve  the  soda  in  the 
water,  roll  thin  and  bake  quickly.  With  these 
crackers  and  vegetable  oysters  we  make  oyster  soup. 

S.ime  Water  for  Correctiiiff  AcMs 
ill  etc. — When,  bread  becomes  sour 

by  standing  too  long  before  baking,  instead  of  using 
soda  I  use  lime  water,  two  or  three  tablespoonfuls 
will  entirely  sweeten  a  batch  of  rising  sufficient  for 
four  or  five  large  loaves.  I  slack  a  small  piece  of 
lime,  take  the  skim  off  of  the  top  and  bottle  the 
clear  water,  and  it  is  ready  for  use.  A  bottle  full 
will  last  all  summer. 

Flositisig  Beat  the  whites  only  of 

flve  eggs,  until  they  form  a  stiff  froth,  then 
add  a  little  at  a  time,  4  spoonfuls  of  powdered  loaf 
sugar,  and  Currant  Jelly,  or  syrup  of  any  kind  of 
preserves.  Put  rich  milk  or  a  custard  with  the  yolks 
in  the  bottom  of  a  glass  or  china  bowl  and  put  the 
float  ou  the  top. 

Poor  Msasi’s  AiiiaWes. — 2  bowls  of  flour, 
1  of  su.gar,  X  ol'  ®our  cream  or  buttermilk,  a  little 
soda  and  cinnamon  ;  to  be  rolled  thin  and  fried  in 
hot  fat  or  butter. 

•  Tea  Craclcers. — 3  teacupfuls  flour,  1  of 
lard,  1  of  water,  a  large  teaspoonful  of  salt.  Mix  all 
together,  put  it  on  the  pie-board  and  work  it  well, 
adding  flour  until  stiff,  short,  and  perfectly  smooth. 
Roll  out  as  thin  as  a  knife  blade,  prick  with  a 
fork,  and  bake  well,  but  do  not  brown. 

Oisielet.— Take  4  eggs,  1  tablespoonful  of 
flour,  1  cup  of  milk,  and  a  little  salt.  Beat  the 
whites  of  the  eggs  separately  and  add  to  the  above, 
(which  should  be  well  stirred  together,)  just  before 
cooking.  Butter  a  spider  well,  and  when  hot  pour 
in  the  omelet.  Cook  very  slowly  on  top  of  the 
stove  and  keep  the  vessel  covered. 


IScet  Biasli. — Take  cold  boiled  beets  and  po¬ 
tatoes,  equal  parts  of  each  in  summer  and  early 
autumn ;  in  winter,  one  third  beets,  and  two  thirds 
potatoes  ;  hash  them,  and  fry  or  stew  in  milk  and 
butter,  with  salt  and  pepper  to  suit  the  taste.  Heat 
slowly  and  thoroughly;  if  scorched  it  is  spoiled. 
This  is  a  nice  preparation  for  a  breakfast  dish. 


mY§  &  ©©ILWMMS. 


Malclirag  Carden  Worlc  Easy. 


Gardening  is  hard  labor  or  pleasant  work,  according 
as  one  manages  to  have  it.  It  makes  the  back  and  arms 
ache  to  lioe  through  the  long  rows,  and  it  is  very  tire¬ 
some  to  stoop  among  the  beets,  onions,  carrots,  etc.,  to 
pull  the  weeds.  A  boy  may  tliink  of  little  but  “  Oh  what 
long  rows  these  are  ” — “  what  hard  work  this  is  ” — “how 
I  do  ache  all  over” — “  I  wish  dinner  time  would  come,” 
(does  not  that  sound  familiar,  John?)  Such  thoughts 
will  help  very  much  to  make  one  tired,  and  hot  and 
thirsty,  and  thoroughly  uncomfortable.  One  little  gar¬ 
dener  we  know  of,  has  a  different  way  of  looking  at  things. 
When  planting  corn,  he  was  busy  thinking  of  the  fine 
roasting  ears  wliich  would  grew  from  them.  “These 
are  my  little  eggs,”  said  he  dropping  some  kernels,  “  I’ll 
put  them  safely  in  the  nest,  and  mother  Earth  will  keep 
them  warm,  and  first  you  know,  ail  the  sprouts  will  hatch 
out,  and  then  grow  and  grow,  and  next  September  there’ll 
be  a  whole  brood  of  my  corn  on  every  stalk.”  And  so  he 
w'ent  on  planting,  thinking,  and  amusing  himself  with 
such  pleasant  conceits,  forgetting  all  about  the  hard 
work.  When  hoeing  time  came,  he  called  his  hoe  a 
musket ,  the  weeds,  rebels,  and  the  corn,  the  Union  men. 
and  great  sport  he  had  in  winning  easy  victories.  That 
was  certainly  more  agreeable  than  pitying  his  muscles 
and  so  making  them  ache  harder.  The  secret  of  easy 
working  is  to  keep  the  mind  pleasantly  employed.  The 
garden  is  full  of  ideas  for  those  who  will  take  pains  to 
seek  them.  On  commencing  work  in  spring,  the  ground 
is  hard  and  must  be  plowed  or  spaded.  That  may  re¬ 
mind  you  of  the  thick  dullness  of  an  uneducated  mind. 
It  takes  something  stirring  to  wake  up  its  attention,  and 
prepare  the  man  to  receive  the  seed  of  new  ideas  ;  the 
older  he  is,  the  liarder  work  for  him  to  learn.  You  re¬ 
member  the  proverb,  “You  can’t  teach  an  old  dog  new 
tricks.”  When  the  seed  begins  to  grow,  if  too  thickly 
sown  it  must  be  thinned,  or  it  will  produce  little.  That 
may  teach  the  very  important  lesson  that  one  w  ho  would 
be  successful  must  not  have  too  many  plans  on  hand. 
Most  great  men  are  those  who  have  worked  steadily  on 
a  few  purposes.  Then  there  are  fortunate  plants  grow¬ 
ing  ahead  of  all  around  them,  because  they  happen  to 
grow  in  very  rich  earth ;  but  their  less  prosperous 
neighbors  do  not  seem  to  notice  it ;  they  go  right  on 
growing  their  best.  Surely  here  is  a  good  lesson.  And 
so  from  every  plant  and  weed,  and  from  every  operation 
in  the  garden,  profitable  and  pleasant  thinking  enough 
may  be  drawn,  to  keep  work  from  being  irksome,  and  to 
greatly  lessen  fatigue.  Try  it  the  next  time  you  are  w  eed- 
ing  onions,  or  hoeing  cabbages. 

Ih  _ 

Isitercsting’  Tradiftioms  of  tiae  Ear¬ 
liest  Times. 

A  chief  of  the  Ojibway  Indians  relates  that  when  he 
became  of  suitable  age  to  be  made  tlie  head  of  his  tribe, . 
the  “Medicine  Man”  or  prophet  of  his  people,  took  him 
alone  into  the  woods  to  initiate  him  into  some  of  the  sa¬ 
cred  mysteries.  When  they  came  to  a  certain  location, 
the  prophet  bade  him  to  remove  liis  moccasins,  because 
they  were  standing  on  holy  ground.  He  then  went  to  a 
large  stump  and  drew  from  it  a  roll  of  bark  on  which 
certain  characters  were  marked,  which  he  read  to  the 
young  chief.  It  professed  to  give  among  other  things  an 
account  of  the  introduction  of  death  into  the  world,  in 
substance  as  follows :  Thousands  of  moons  ago,  before 
death  was  known,  this  world  was  fastened  to  a  bright 
star  by  a  grape  vine  which  grew  in' the  midst  of  the  home 
of  tlie  Indians.  At  the  further  end,  where  it  touched  the 
star,  was  a  wicket  gate.  It  had  been  decreed  by  the 
Great  Spirit,  that  this  gate  must  never  be  touched,  that 
if  any  one  presumed  to  knock  there,  death  should  enter 
the  world.  A  little  old  squaw  seemed  determined  to  try 
the  experiment,  and  several  times  she  was  detected 
climbing  the  grape  vine,  but  was  shaken  off  by  the  other 
Indians.  But  early  one  morning,  to  their  dismay,  they 
saw  her  so  far  up  that  they  could  not  dislodge  her.  On 
she  went,  until  she  reached  the  fatal  gate  and  knocked' 
Instantly  the  hand  of  an  angel  was  stretched  forth  with  a 
drawn  sw'ord,  the  grape  vine  was  cut,  and  with  the  old 
squaw  fell  with  a  crash  to  the  ground.  The  enraged  In¬ 
dians  attacked  lier  with  fury,  and  stamped  her  in  pieces, 
and  so  death  commenced  and  has  always  continued  on 
the  earth.  Our  young  readers  will  sea  how  curiously 


this  account  resemble.s  llic  fall  of  roan  as  i!o.«cribfil  ir 
the  Scriptures.  A  li  iolilion  Appaienily  i-f  Easier  n  origin 
thus  accounts  frir  the  savage  propen.'-ities  of  wild  lierr.si.ri 
Before  man  sinned  the  aiiinrals  all  lived  in  pi-acc.  The 
lion,  the  tiger,  and  even  lire  fiei'ce  hyena,  were  as  h-s.rm- 
le.ss  and  gentle  as  tire  innocent  lambs  in  h  ho.se  rniilst  the> 
fed  upon  grass  and  herbage.  But  when  Adam  .sinned 
they  became  .sullen  and  wild,  though  they  did  not  yer 
destr'oy  eacli  otlier.  A  number  of  them  were  preseni  in 
the  field  when  Cain  killed  his  brother  ;  then  the  srneli 
and  sight  of  blood  rnarldened  them,  and  a  terrible  .strife 
followed.  Hundreds  of  ttiem  were  shrin.  until  each 
learned  which  of  the  olliers  was  stronger,  and  slrurrned 
tliose  lliey  could  not  overpower,  and  they  and  their  de¬ 
scendants  have  remained  feiocioris  and  blood  thirsty. 

A  Child’s  Question. — A  boy  once  asked  Sir  llmn- 
phrey  Davy  why  two  pieces  of  rattan  rubbed  togetlier 
would  give  a  faint  light.  The  great  rhemi.st  could  not 
tell,  but  .said  lie  would  try  to  find  out,  and  after  consider¬ 
able  experiment  he  made  Die  di.scovery  that  tliis  cane 
and  a  large  number  of  plants  contain  silex  or  flinty  earth, 
which  helps  to  stiffen  and  protect  tlieir  stalks. 

Asaswers  to  TroWems  laisal 

The  following  are  answers  to  tlie  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
June  number,  page  191  :  No.  156.  Curious  Sniteyire.— 
He  S', \id  that ;  that  that  that  that  that  referred  to, 

was  incorrectly  used - No.  157.  Illustrated  Rebus.— 

Tooth  ink  on  s  in  with  pleas  ewer  is  necks  two  it,®  c 
(omission)  ;  or,  To  think  on  sin  wilh  plea.siirc  is  iie.vt  to 
its  commission ....  No.  158.  Curious  Latin  Sentences. — 1, 
Quid,  w'ho  ;  crudus,  raw  ;  pro.  for  ;  ledum,  read  ;  album, 
white  j  et,  and  ;  spiravit,  blew  ;  or,  hurrah  for  tlie  red 
white  and  blue  :  2,  ^lens,  mind  ;  tuus,  your;  ego.  I  ;  et, 
and;  labor,  work;  via,  a  way;  that  is,  Mind  your  eye 
and  work  away ;  3,  Bonce,  good  ;  mnli,  apples,  smtl. 

are;  desiderahiles,  de.sirable _ No.  159.  Illustrated  Re¬ 

bus.— Two  bee  a  man  re  quires  sum  th  in  g  yp(e)ar.s 
(more  than  years)  ;  or.  To  be  a  man  requires  someiliing 

more  than  years - No.  160.  Conundrums.— Because 

it  knows  no  law  ;  2,  Seipio  carried  the  war  into  Africa  , 
Lincoln  carried  Africans  into  the  war;  3,  General  satis- 
faclioit;  4,  Portugal  (is  full  of  Portuguese).— The  follow 
ing  have  sent  in  correct  answers  up  to  June  8lh  :  1.  C. 

Martindale,  149,  150,  153;  Row'land  Bobinson,  Jr.,  153. 
Belle  Curtis  and  Mary  F.  Jordon,  153;  “A.  P.,”  152. 
“  J.  Y.  D.,”  147,  155  i  “  T.  S.  McD.,”  147  (Tliere  are  sev¬ 
eral  correct  solutions  to  the  planting  problem);  Jim  R. 
Hale,  153  ;  Emeline  Burgert,  153. 

New  PeixzIcs  to  Ise  Asasworesl 

No.  161.  Curious  Numbers.  From  what  number  can 
you  substract  three  and  leave  tlie  same  original  number  ? 
2d:  1  from  6  leaves  9,  and  2  from  6  leaves  10 ;  how  can  it  be  t 


No.  162.  Illustrated  Rebus. — .Appropriate  to  the  time.'. 


No.  163.  Commdrttm.  Louis  Napoleon  and  Maximilian 
are  in  dread  of  the  gift  of  wlial  wliole  country  ? 

No.  164.  Word  Rebus.— Fuel  sheep  insect  recolored  in 
small  spots  journalist  abbreviated,  condensed  moisture 
wash-pitcher  opening  tea  made  of  dew. 


No.  165.  Illustrated  Rebus.— To  be  remembered  by  all. 

No.  166.  Conundrum,  by  John  R.  Weeks.  What  river 
in  the  United  Stales  is  like  a  private  in  the  54th  Massa 
chusetts  Regiment? 

No.  167.  Puzzling  Sentences.— \,  Hi  knees  found 
harm  under  half  covering.  2,  Ut  rye  vattin  I  am  iluu. 
Read  them  correctly. 

No.  168.  Clock  Problem.— M,  a  certain  lime  between  8 
and  9  the  minute  hand  of  a  clock  w'as  between  9  and  10. 
Within  an  hour  afterward  tlie  hour  and  the  minute  hands 
had  changed  places.  Wliat  was  the  lime  first  mentioned  f 


Sucli  an  Independence  Day  as  v\ill  be  celebraicd  lids 
month  was  never  known  before.  In  ilie  earliei  lustory  of 
the  nation,  there  was  |icrliaps  equal  joy  anioii"  tlie  small¬ 
er  number  who  proudly  and  gratefully  commemorated 
the  triumph  in  the  struggle  w  Inch  secured  freedom  and 
peace,  but  then  only  one  point  had  been  settled— the  right 
of  the  people  to  self  government.  Wise  statesmen  look¬ 
ing  to  the  unknown  future  fell  that  the  young  nation  had 
yet  to  pass  through  its  .severest  ordeal ;  that  tlie  time 
would  come  when  the  ability  as  well  as  the  right  of  re¬ 
publican  government  was  to  be  tested.  They  saw  evils 
already  growing,  filled  with  danger  to  the  young  repub¬ 
lic.  How  could  strong  party  spirit  be  restrained  from 
revolution?  How  could  sectional  jealousies  be  pre¬ 
vented  ?  These  and  oilier  questions  might  well  occa¬ 
sion  anxiety,  for  they  have  tecently  shaken  the  very 
foundations  of  the  nation.  But  now  we  rejoice  in  a 
tried  nationality,  in  a  Free  land.  Sectional  hate,  party 
strife  arid  slavery  have  done  their  worst,  and  The  Re- 
puDuc  Lives  !  First  of  all  we  reverently  give  thanks 
to  God  who  has  granted  victory  over  the  terrible  rebel¬ 
lion  ;  next  we  remember  with  gratitude  and  just  pride  the 
heroes  by  whose  strong  arms,  stouter  hearts  and  match¬ 
less  perseverance,  treason  is  crushed  and  peace  restored. 
They  have  well  earned  the  welcome  that  greets  them 
on  tlieir  return  to  tlie  homes  they  have  given  so  mucli  to 
ilefend.  The  scene  whicli  our  artist  has  sketched  lias  al¬ 
ready  been  enacted  in  many  a  village,  and  is  yet  to  glad¬ 
den  liiindreds  of  districts.  Wliile  all  unite  in  public 
demonstrations  of  honor  to  our  noble  brothers  returning 
from  tlie  field,  let  them  also  be  remembered  as  deserving 
tlie  best  gifts  of  the  nation  wliose  life  tliey  li.ave  saved. 
Give  them  all  olTices  of  trust  and  honor  for  wliicli  they 
giay  be  competent  ;  let  cliildrcn  learn  their  deeds,  and 
ever  show  them  respect ;  and  where  the  hard  fortunes  of 
war  have  bmue  luird  on  them  or  their  families,  let  the 
ample  provision  made  for  their  wants  show  that  we  are 
not  uiiworlliy  of  the  biessings  secured  by  their  hardships. 


I  Finally,  let  all  our  young  readers  keep  in  mind  that  re-  . 

I  hellion  sprang  from  the  ambition  and  selfisliiicss  of  its 
I  leaders  and  the  ignorance  of  its  followers,  tliat  it  was 
!  overthrown  by  heroism  derived  from  virtue  and  knowl¬ 
edge,  which  are  the  surest  safeguards  of  a  free  people. 

* 

Friemds  Amostg-  iSac  ISirtls. 

In  response  lo  tlie  invitation  in  tlie  April  Agriculturist 
for  our  young  readers  to  relate  their  success  in  making 
friends  among  the  birds,  James  Dilts,  Muskingum  Co., 
O.,  sends  an  account  of  a  pair  of  wrens  that  were  made 
familiar  by  kind  treatment.  Tliey  came  lo  the  house  in 
the  fall  of  1SG2,  and  made  their  home  in  some  bunches  of 
cotton  that  hung  in  the  garret,  where  tliey  were  fed  and 
cared  for  all  winter.  In  the  spring  they  suddenly  dis¬ 
appeared,  but  in  a  few  weeks  returned  to  the  neighbor¬ 
hood  with  a  brood  of  young.  These  were  soon  fledged, 
and  set  up  living  on  their  own  account,  and  the  old  birds 
built  a  nest  in  the  corner  of  a  sliop  where  workmen  were 
thumping  and  pounding  continually,  and  there  raised 
another  family.  When  tliese  were  out  of  the  way,  tliey 
moved  to  a  box  in  the  garret  where  tliey  had  formerly 
lived.  The  following  spring  tliey  made  tlicir  first  nest 
in  the  old  location  in  the  shop,  but  during  the  summer 
changed  llieir  quarters.  They  entered  the  window, 
passed  across  tlie  garret,  went  down  a  stairway  into  a 
store-room,  and  found  a  long-neeked  gourd  hanging 
there,  which  they  at  once  appropriated,  and  held  tlirough 
the  summer.  Fresently  they  were  missed  again,  but 
tale  ill  the  fall,  they  returned  and  passed  tlie  winter 
among  the  cotton  in  the  garret.  Toward  spring  one  of 
them  died  ;  the  otlicr  one  remained,  and  when  warm 
weather  rcliirned,  broiiglit  in  a  new  mate  lo  sliare  the 
gourd  occupied  Hie  previous  summer,  where  tliey  are  now 
enjoying  life.  The  new  comer  is  quite  sliy,  but  the  old-  I 
er  acquaintance  is  .so  tame  that  it  has  sometimes  come  I 
into  the  window  and  perched  on  the  dress  of  one  of  the  1 


girls  in  the  family.  tS'o  little  bird  stoned  or  shot  by.-  ' 
thoughtless  boy  ever  gave  half  the  pleasure  deriveu  j 
from  iiettiiig  and  laming  tliese  friendly  wrens.  , 

Another  young  readeri  Townsend  Forbes  of  Queens  I 
Co.,  N.  Y.,  reeenlly  described  a  successful  metliod  of 
attracting  tlie  birds  lo  the  grounds  near  his  residence. 

He  lias  a  bo.x  or  tank  for  containing  gold  fisli,  about  Hiree  ,1 
feet  long,  nearly  filled  villi  water.  In  one  end  of  Hie  ' 
tank  is  a  sloping  shelf  passing  down  to  wliere  the  water  . 
is  about  two  inches  deep,  where  it  meets  anollier  slielf  a  ! 
few  inches  wide  placed  lioiizontally.  Tlie  tank  is  | 
placed  in  the  yard  and  Hie  birds  of  the  neighborhood,  | 
robins,  Ihrnslies,  yellow  birds,  sparrows,  etc.,  find  Hiis  a  . 
convenient  place  for  batliing,  and  large  numbers  of  Hiem 
come  every  day  to  enjoy  Hie  accommodation  kindly  pro-  I 
vided  for  them.  Tlieir  actions  wliile  batliing  are  very  1 
diverting,  and  Hiey  repay  the  favor  done  them  with  grate-  I 
fill  music.  The  boys  who  take  a  hint  from  this  will  see 
Hiat  any  shallow  dish  in  which  water  is  kept  will  answer  | 
the  purpose.  It  is  well  to  have  a  sloping  entrance  to  Hie 
water  as  birds  are  shy  and  like  to  enter  gradually. 

A  CalCMlatiJig-  BSch. 

The  CanlonMo.  Press,  is  responsible  for  Hie  following,  1 
vvliich  is  certainly  different  from  any  hen  performances  in  •  I 
these  parts.  Our  hens  are  ambitious  to  sit  as  extensivel'' 
as  possible.  “A  few  days  ago,  a  hen  was  found  on  a 
neighboring  farm,  incubating  upon  a  nest  of  five  eggs. 
Considering  tliat  too  small  an  undertaking  for  a  full 
grown  hen,  the  owner  removed  these  and  placed  thirteen 
fresh  eggs  in  the  nest.  On  examination  soon  after,  it 
was  discovered  that  the  old  biddy  ii.ad  dcliberalely  rolled 
out  eight,  thus  refusing  to  cover  more  than  Hic  original 
number.  Four  times  Hie  experiment  was  repeated  wiln 
a  similar  result,  and  Hie  obstinate  hen  was  finally  left  In 
her  select  number,  thus  furnishing  evidence  not  only  u. 
her  reasoning  powers,  but  of  true  feminine  spunk.' 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


925 


(Business  notices  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 

FISK  &  HATCH, 

No.  5  Massaaa-sit.,  Mew-lfork, 

BANKERS  AND  GENERAL  DEALERS 
IN 

GOVEH-WMIEKT  §ECUS1ITIE§, 

Agents  for  tlie  sale  of 

Tlte  Mew 

DEPOSITS  DECEIVE©. 
COLLECTIONS  MADE 

AND 

Financial  Business  generally  Transact¬ 
ed  witU  care  and  promptness, 

VERM  I  LYE  &  CO., 

JVb.  44  Wall  Street,  New  YorJc, 

(JOIRNMEM  LOAN  AGENTS, 


UNITED  STATES 

7-30  LOAN. 

THIRB  SERIES, 

f230,©OO,OO©. 

By  authority  of  tlie  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  the 
undersigned,  the  General  Subscription  Agent  for  the 
sale  of  the  United  States  Securities,  offers  to  the  pubiic 
the  Third  Series  of  Treasury  Notes,  bearing  seven  and 
three-tenths  per  cent,  interest,  per  annum,  known  as  the 

SEVEN-THIRTY  LOAN. 

These  Notes  are  issued  under  date  of  July  15th,  1865, 
and  are  payable  three  years  from  that  date,  in  currency, 
or  are  convertible  at  the  option  of  the  holder  into 

U.  S,  5-20  Six  per  cent. 

GOLD-BEARING  BONDS. 


NEW  PUBLICATIONS. 


KEEP  ON  HAND  FOH 

Xxsa.3acB.©ca.ia,t© 

ALL  ISSUES  OF 

7-30  Treasury  Notes,  of  all  Denominations. 

Wo  BUY  and  SELL  all  classes  of  GOVERNMENT  SECUR¬ 
ITIES  at  market  rales.  ORDERS  from  BANKS  and  BANK¬ 
ERS  executed  on  favorable  terms,  and  with  despatcli.  Also 
receive  DEPOSITS,  and  ALLOW  INTEREST  on  current 
balance. 

&  C©. 

(ona  and  Israella  Grape  Vines. 

Also  Vines  of  all  other  good  Native  varieties,  for  Gar- 
len  and  Vineyard.  Price  List  and  Pamphlet  sent  for 
2  ct.  stamp.  Illustrated  Catalogue,  6S  large  Pages,  25 
tents.  Descriptive  Catalogue,  32  Pages,  10  cents.  The 
Mvo,  bound  together,  50  cents.  These  two  Catalogues 
jie  together  a  thorough  and  complete  manual  of  the 
Vine,  and  although  named  Catalogues,  only  two  pages 
U)  each  are  given  to  that  object. 

The  Descriptive  exhibits  tlie  principles  and  general 
•onsiderations  which  form  the  basis  upon  which  grape 
culture  is  to  be  succe.'isfully  conducted,  and  is  illustrated 
vith  many  of  the  best  engravings  ever  prepared  for  the 
purpose.  The  Illustrated  treats  thoroughly  of  practice 
>nd  practical  results,  Illustrated  with  about  eighty  en¬ 
gravings,  both  together  constituting  the  most  thorough, 
practical,  and  comprehensive  treatise  on  the  Vine  in  the 
■■anguage. 

The  sixteen-page  Catalogue  is  intended  to  facilitate 
ihe  business  of  selling  Vines,  and  is  filled  witli  important 
•natter  worthy  of  tlie  attention  of  every  lover  of  good 
grapes, 

N.  B.— Tne  conditions  of  full  measure  of  success  in 


These  Bonds  are  now  worth  a  handsome  premium  and 
are  exempt,  as  are  all  the  Government  Bonds./rom  State, 


County,  and  Municipal  taxation,  which  adds  from  one  to 
three  per  cent,  per  annum  to  their  value,  according  to  the 


rate  levied  on  other  property.  The  interest  is  payable 


semi-annually  by  coupons  attached  to  each  note,  which 
may  be  cut  off  and  sold  to  any  bank  or  banker. 


Tlie  interest  at  T.30  per  cent,  amounts  to 


One  cent  per  day  on  a 
Two  cents 
Ten 
20 
$t 


$50  note. 
$100 
$500 

$iooo 

$5000 


Notes  of  all  the  denominations  named  will  be  promptly 
furnished  upon  receipt  of  subscriptions. 

Tlie  Notes  of  this  Third  Series  are  precisely  simi¬ 
lar  in  form  and  privileges  to  the  Seven-Thirties  alrea  ly 
sold,  except  that  the  Government  reserves  to  itself  tne 
option  of  paying  interest  in  gold  coin  at  6  per  cent.,  in¬ 
stead  of  7  3-lUths  in  currency.  Subscribers  will  deduct 
the  interest  in  currency  up  to  July  lolh,  at  the  time  when 
they  subscribe. 

The  delivery  of  the  notes  of  this  Third  Series  of  llie 
Seven-thirties  will  commence  on  tlie  1st  of  June,  and 
will  be  made  promptly  and  continuously  after  that  date. 

The  sliglit  change  made  in  the  condition  of  this  THIRD 
SERIES  affects  only  the  matter  of  interest.  The  pay¬ 
ment  in  gold,  if  made,  will  be  equivalent  to  the  currency 
interest  of  the  higher  rate. 


$10® 

One  Hundred  Dollars  in  United  Slates  greenbacks 
will  be  given  for  the  largest  -Frog  sent  to  the  “Grand 
Exhibition  of  Bull  Frogs.”  For  full  partictiiars  see  the 
July  number  of  “THE  FUNNIEST.”  This  number 
will  be  mailed  to  parties  on  tiie  receipt  of  fifteen  cents. 

Address  J.  M.  SHEICK,  “  Funniest  Office,” 

39  &  40  Park  Row,  New  York. 

Ten  other  premiums  ranging  from  $20  down  wan!  will 
be  paid  for  prize  Bull  Frogs.  “THE  FUNNIES'I”' can 
be  had  of  all  newsdealers.  Send  your  orders  in  advance. 

“MAGIC  PICTURE  CARDS.” 

Eacli  picture  disclosing  upon  close  examination  imicl, 
more  than  is  at  first  seen'  New,  Unique.  Curious, 
Puzzling  and  Amusing.  The  wliole  set.  with  Explan 
ATORv  Key,  sent  post-paid,  for  3)  cents  or.  four  sets 
to  one  address  for  $1.  AMSDEN  &  CO.,  Piiblislicrs.  ' 
14  Bromficld-street.  Boston. 


PULPIT  AND  ROSTRUM.  No.  3-1,  CONTAINS 
Hon.  GEORGE  BANCROFT'S  ORATION 
At  the  Obsequies  of  ABRAIlAiM  LINCOLN, 
THE  FUNERAL  ODE,  by  William  Cullen  Bryant, 
The  EMANCIPATION  PROCLAM  ATION.  Jan. 1.  18C3. 
Mr.  LINCOLN’S  LAST  INAUGURAL  ADDRESS, 

A  CORRECT  PORTRAIT  OK  THE  LATE  PRESIDENT. 

Price,  bv  mail,  with  Portrait.  30  cents. 

No.  33  is  Rev.  HENRY  WARD  BEECHER  S 
Fort  Sumter  Orat'un.  l)v  mail,  211  cenis. 
SCHERMERHORN.  BANCROFT  &  CO.. 

13U  Grand-st.,  New  York. 


Garden  and  Vineyard  are  clearly  stated  in  Illustrated 
Catalogue;  and  the  cliaplers  “On  Proper  Treatment 
jf  the  Vines  when  Received,”  “On  the  Preparation  of 
Ihe  Ground,”  and  “On  Planting,”  should  be  attentively 
read  and  observed  by  all  purcliasers  of  Vines. 

C.  W.  GR.iNT,  “IONA,”  near  PEEKSKILL, 

Westchester  County,  N.  Y.,  1865. 


The  return  to  specie  payments,  in  the  event  ol  which 
only  will  the  option  to  pay  interest  in  Gold  he  availed  of, 
would  so  reduce  and  equalize  prices  that  purchases  made 
with  six  per  cent,  in  gold  would  be  fully  equal  to  those 
made  with  seven  and  three-tenths  per  cent,  in  currency. 
This  is 

THE  ONLY  LOAN  IN  MAEKET 


Coiicciatrated  IxCBaicsjade 

in  cases  of  2,  4,  6  and  12  dozen.  Warranted  pin  e.  Price 
$3.50  per  dozen.  Orders  must  be  accompanied  by  Cash. 
For  sale  by  T.  HARDY  &  CO.,  36  Dey-sl.,  N.  Y. 


To  Purcliasers  of  ©rg^aiis, 
MeBodeosis,  or  Manisouiiims. 

Every  one  having  any  thought  of  purchasing  an  in¬ 
strument  of  this  class  now  or  at  any  future  time  should 
send  for  one  of  MASON  &  HAMLIN’S  Cabinet  Organ 
Circulars,  which  will  be  sent  to  any  address  entirely  free 
of  expense.  Tills  Circular  contains  much  information 
wliich  will  be  useful  to  every  purchaser  of  such  an  in¬ 
strument,  such  as  articles  on  “  How  to  Judge  of  a  Musi¬ 
cal  Instrument,”  “  History  of  the  Organ,”  “History  of 
Reed  Instruments,”  &c.,  &c.  Address  MASON  BROTH¬ 
ERS,  596  Broadway.  New  York,  Or,  MASON  &  HAM¬ 
LIN,  274  Washington-street,  Boston. 

PIANOS  &  OHGAMS. 

Great  Bargains  in  HALLET,  DAVIS  &  CO’S  Grand 
and  Square  Pianos— and  other  New  Pianos.  Sold  on 
monthly  payments.  Good  second-hand  Pianos  at  $60, 
$150  to  $300. 

FIANOS  AND  MELOBEONS  TO  EET. 

A.  E.  THOMPSON’S  Chapel  and  Parlor  Organs, 
voiced  by  a  skillful  Organist,  far  superior  to  ail  other 
Reed  Organs.  Price  $100.  T.  S.  BERRY, 

593  Broadway,  New  York. 


Now  offeied  by  the  Government,  and  its  superior  ad¬ 
vantages  make  it  the 

GREAT  POPULAR  LOAN  OF  THE  PEOPLE. 

Less  than  $230,000,000  of  the  Loan  authorized  by 
Congress  are  now  on  the  market.  Tliis  amount,  at 
the  rate  at  which  it  is  being  absorbed,  will  all  be  sub¬ 
scribed  for  vvitliin  sixty  d.ays,  when  the  notes  will  un¬ 
doubtedly  command  a  premium,  as  has  uniformly  been 
the  case  on  closing  the  subscriptions  to  other  Loans. 

In  order  that  citizens  of  every  town  and  section  of 
the  country  may  be  afforded  facilities  for  taking  the  loan, 
the  National  Banks,  State  Banks,  and  Private  Bankers 
throughout  the  country  have  generally  agreed  to  receive 
subscriptions  at  par.  Subscribers  will  select  their  own 
agents,  in  whom  they  have  confidence,  and  who  only  are 
to  be  responsible  for  the  delivery  of  the  notes  for  which 
they  receive  orders. 

JAY  COOKE, 

SUBSCRIPTION  AGENT, 
No.  114  South  Third  Street, 
May  15,  1865.  PHILADELPHIA. 


WoocSstile  Mtirscry. 

ANDREW  S.  FULLER,  HORTICULTURIST, 
formerly  of  Brooklyn,  h.  I. 

Grape  Vines,  Small  Fruits  and  Hardy  Ornamental 
Plants.  P.  O.  Address,  Ridgewood,  Bergen  Co.,  N.  J. 

Patent  hever  Horse  Po^vers  for  Farm  and 
Plantation  use.  Portable,  very  easy  working  and  proved 
durable  by  long  use.  They  have  three  rates  of  motion 
for  Threshing  or  Sawing,  Ginning  Cotton  and  Grinding, 
Pumping,  &c.  For  Circulars  or  Macliines.  Address 
CRESSON,  HUBBARD  &  SMITH, 
Philadelphia.  Pa. 

hung:,  Female  and  Chronic  Biseases 

treated  successfully  at  Drs.  S.  S.  &  S,  E.  STRONG’S 
Remedial  Institute,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y’.  See  last 
month’s  No.  of  Agriciilluiist.  For  full  information  send 
for  a  Circular. 

ISi’adlljory’s  Celebrated  Piano 
Fortes. 

427  &  4'25  Broome-st.,  New  York. 

Bashfulness.— HOW  to  overcome  it. 

See  rilUENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL.  Jan.  No.  20  eta. 
F05VLEK  &  IVELLS,  3S9  Broadway,  Ncw-Toi'k. 


5236 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[July, 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


New-Yoiik,  June  IT. 

Tilt  condensed  and  convenient  tables  below,  show  the 
transactions  in  tlie  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
montli  past.  They  are  carefully  prepared  specially  forllie 
American  AgricuUurisiy  from  offici.al  and  other  reliable 
sources,  including  the  daily  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 

1.  TltANSACTIOXS  AT  TtlE  XKW-YOUK  MARKETS. 

Ueckipts,  Ftoar.  Wheat.  Corn.  Iti/e.  Barleu.  Oats. 
a5davs£/ii.tm’tli.S.-.!l,000  311S,0n0  1,177,000  tlOO  lehOOO  l,7U:!,p00 

21  days  fust  m'tli.33',i.OOO  22,700  153,000  2,600  Oi.OOO  19. ,000 

Sai.ks.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rue.  Harley. 

23days(Ai.?nionfli,  2.-.9,on0  dPi.OOO  SUl.OOO  56  000  78.000 

24 days /u.s£  month,  249,000  655,000  2.2,000  b,a00  61,000 

3.  Comparison  icith  same  period  at  this  time  ia.st  year. 
Hechipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats, 

25  days  1865 . 359.000  398.000  1,477,000  2,100  131,000  1.723,000 

28  days  1801 . 357,000  3,130,000  689,000  20,200  264,000  1,779,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

25  days  1865  .  2.77,000  476,000  819.000  56,000  7,800 

28  days  1864 .  51.7,000  4,156,000  668,000  13.400  45,000 

3.  Exports  from  NewYork,  January  1  to  June  15: 


Flour,  Vi 

'heat. 

Corn, 

live. 

Oats. 

bbls. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

bus. 

... 

.  noi.Tio 

309.014 

311,241 

141 

4.5,017 

18(U  ... 

.  9^1,7S.d 

5,613,979 

133.392 

405 

19,748 

18t53.... 

. 1,0lx3.aS9 

5.759,373 

4.370,779 

280,287 

103,583 

1802.... 

. 1,261,118 

5,912,421 

5, 940, 825 

799,100 

20,887 

4.  Receipts  at  head  of  tide  mater  at  Albany,  each  season 
to  end  of  Hay  : 

Wlieat,  Corn,  Ilye,  Barley, 
bush.  bush.  bush.  bush. 

403.800  560,500  20.800 

2,454,400  369.400  22,460 


Flour, 

bbl. 

1365  .  61,900 

1864  .  51.100 

1863 . 130,700 


Oats, 
bush. 
99,800  1,741,000 
99,100  1,180,900 


2,625,600  3,224,300  42,800  46,000  1,327,000 

Ccep.ext  Wuolesale  IT.ices. 


Flour— Super  to  Extra  State  its  90 
Super  to  Extra  Soutlicrn.  ...  7  1-5 

Extra  Western . 

Extra  Genesee . 

Superliue  Western . 

1!ye  Flour .  5  00 

CoRX  .Meat . 

Wheat— All  kinds  of  White. 

All  kiiids  of  Ited . 

COR.x— Yellow  . 

Mixed  . 

Oats— IVcstern . 

State . 

Kye  . . 

Barley  . 

Corrox— Middling.s,  ^1  ft  ... 

Hops— Crop  of  1861.  ft . 

Fe  rTiiERS— Live  Geese,  ?!  ft 

Skeo- Clover.  *1  ft  . 

Timotliv,  ^  liusliel . 

Flax,  'fl  bushel . 

Sugar— Brown,  ft  . 

.Molasses.  New-Orleans.^gl. 

(70FF.EE— Itio.  '#18 . 

ToiiACCO.  Kentucky,  &c..  ft. 

Seed  Leaf,  ft  -.  ■  •••  ..i  . 

Wool— Bome.stic  Fleece, ft.  6j  & 

Domestic,  pulled.  ¥  ft . 

Califonua,  unwashed, .  Ja  & 


May 

IS. 

June 

20. 

$5 

90 

6 

80 

$5 

75 

@ 

0 

95 

7 

1’5 

a  VI 

00 

7 

25 

®1 

12 

00 

0 

10 

(gti 

1 

50 

G 

50 

@1 

.1 

50 

0 

80 

9 

00 

0 

95 

@ 

9 

V.5 

5 

90 

6 

20 

5 

75 

@ 

6 

15 

5 

00 

® 

6 

00 

5 

25 

@ 

5 

75 

5 

10 

6 

00 

4 

05 

® 

5 

25 

1 

75 

2 

20 

1 

SO 

@ 

2 

20 

1 

25 

® 

1 

75 

1 

37)4® 

1 

80 

90 

® 

1 

03 

90 

@ 

95 

00 

® 

1 

00 

80 

@ 

93 

50 

@ 

52 

78 

@ 

80 

50 

@ 

51 

7.3 

® 

75 

85 

® 

90 

85 

@ 

1 

00 

1 

15 

® 

1 

45 

1 

00 

@ 

1 

40 

48 

® 

50 

41 

@ 

42 

10 

® 

35 

12)4® 

40 

59 

® 

C3 

03 

® 

65 

22 

@ 

23 

13X® 

UM 

4 

50 

@ 

5 

50 

3 

00 

@ 

4 

25 

2 

10 

® 

2 

25 

1 

so 

@ 

2 

10 

054®  laH 
7.7  @  1  0.7 
19K®  23 


C  @ 


OK  @  15)4 

Nominal. 
18)4(3  23 


7M 


10  m  10)4 


6  @ 


57 

58 
IS 
10)4® 


@ 


23 

30 

75 

70 

42)4 

llkl 


,  43 

00 

®50 

no 

45 

00 

@50 

00 

,  21 

50 

@■23 

50 

24 

;>0 

f-S28 

2.7 

.  21 

50 

®  — 

— 

18 

00 

®J8 

50 

.  10 

00 

®14 

00 

10 

00 

®14 

00 

15)4® 

18 

15  K® 

lOkf 

Vi 

@ 

23 

2-1 

® 

30 

21 

@ 

35 

20 

(.4 

33 

12 

@ 

20 

7 

(<4 

10 

.  1 

®  2 

•25 

30 

H  1 

50 

.  1 

90 

@  2 

10 

1 

40 

®  1 

50 

24 

@ 

27 

20 

bh 

29 

20 

® 

24 

18 

H 

20 

20 

@ 

27 

IS 

H 

20 

.  2 

50 

50 

2 

00 

®  3 

00 

.  2 

00 

@  2 

25 

1 

75 

(<4  2 

25 

00 

®10 

00 

8 

00 

@11 

00 

month 

,  (M 

ay 

16) 

(' 

131, 

ad- 

Tallow.  ft 

OtL  Cake— P  ton . 

I’or.K— .Mess,  tiarrel  . 

I ‘rime,  ft  barrel  . 

Beef— Blain  mess . 

La  nn,  in  barrels,  ft  ft . 

Bptteu— Western,  tj)  ft . 

State,  ft  . .  •  • 

Cheese . 

Beaxs— '<>  busl(el . . 

Peas— Canada.  liusliel. . 

Egos— Fresh.  P  dozen 

PoULTP.v— Fowls,  S  ft. 

Turkeys,  '4i  ft  . 

Potatoes— Mercers, 

Peach  Blows,  19  barrel. 
Apples— 19  barrel . 


vaiiced  by  the  end  of  May  to  137H,  und  hv  Thursday 
evening,  June  15,  to  147)4.  Influenced  by  this  rise,  which 
has  been  caused  by  the  recent  heavy  exports  of  specie, 
the  large  purchases  of  coin  to  pay  duties  at  the  Cfustom 
House,  and  consequent  speculative  operations  in  Uie  pre- 
cious  metal — tlie  markets  for  domesiic  produce  iia\e 
been  more  active,  and,  thougli  prices  weie  iiiegulai  eat- 
ly  in  tlie  month,  the  tendency  through  the  past  week  was 
decidedly  upward  ..  Flour,  wlieat,  corn,  and  oats  hate 
been  in  good  request  for  liome  use,  and  for  shipment, 
closing  buoyantly  at  advancing  prices.  The  receipts 
were  liberal  in  the  first  lialf  of  the  month,  but  liave  fallen 
olT  considerably  during  the  past  tenor  twelve  days.... 
Provisions  liave  been  more  freely  purchased.  New  Mess 
Pork  and  prime  Lard  have  been  in  active  speculative  re¬ 
quest,  at  unusually  variable  prices.  Beef  has  been 
steady.  Culler  lias  been  less  freely  oflered,  and  quoted 
lii^her.  witli  a  good  export  inquiry.  Largo  slocks  of  but¬ 
ler  are  known  as  being  on  liand  in  tlie  interior,  lield  back 
for  advanced  prices,  wliich,  if  gold  declines— a  very 
probable  event— can  never  be  realized.  Clieese  has  been 
plenty  and  depressed,  in  tlie  absence  of  an  export  de¬ 
mand  ...Cotton  lias  been  more  abundant,  and  lias  fallen 

materially.  Tlie  demand  lias  been  quite  moderate - 

Wool  lias  been  in  very  limited  request  at  lower  and  de¬ 
clining  prices,  in  the  face  of  a  very  moderate  supply  of 
Hie  finer  grndcs  of  botli  domestic  and  foreign,  wliicli  are 
now  most  souglii  after — Hay  ami  Hops  liave  been  sal¬ 
able  am!  ijoyant  . .  .Seeds  have  been  quite  dull,  thougli 
prices  have  receded  rapidly  ...Tobacco  has  beep  in 
pretty  fair  demand  at  steady  rates. 


iMcw-York  Baivc  Stoclc  MarScets. — 

Beef  Cattle  have  come  in  more  freely  this  month  than 
last,  and  prices  have  declined  on  all  grades  of  animals. 
There  has  been  considerable  effort,  among  some  ol  llie 
drovers,  to  keep  prices  up.  but  wiiliout  success,  and  as 
vegetables  and  some  kinds  of  fruits  are  now  plentiful, 
anytliing  like  a  decided  advance  is  not  to  be  expected. 
Tlie  beef  cattle  coming  in  are  almost  entirely  from  tiie 
We.st.  and  generally  of  good,  fair  quality.  The  average 
for  tlie  four  weeks  ending  June  ISili,  is  4,967  head.  The 
latest  prices  are  about  as  follows  :  Good  to  prime  bnl- 
loeks,  16e®17c.  per  lb.,  estimated  dressed  vveiglit;  com¬ 
mon  to  fair,  14c®l5c.,  and  poor  V2c®13c.  The  quota¬ 
tions  are  very  near'y  the  same  as  reported  for  the  corre- 
spomling  period  last  year. 

€'ows. — Receipts  have  ax’er.arred  week¬ 
ly  121.  The  demand  is  little  better,  and  prices  range 
from  $40  to  $70  each  for  poor  to  good  milkers. 

V4*sal  Csilves. — The  receipts  of  veals  for  tlie 
past  four  weeks  liave  been  very  heavy,  averaging  3,656. 
Prices  range  at  5cfa)9c.  and  10c.  per  lb.,  live  weiglit  for 
poor  to  very  good. 

Siseep. — There  has  been  a  considerable  panic 
in  Hie  sliccp  trade,  and  a  decided  decline  in  prices,  since 
oiir  last  report,  owing  to  Hie  large  weekly  arrivals.  Tlie 
sales  range  at  prices  about  3c.  per  lb.  live  weiglit,  lower, 
or  6)4ci'S7J4c  per  lb.  live  weiglit  for  common  to  good 
grades.  Tlie  receipts  liave  averaged  13,056  weekly. 

Bisve  BBofi’s  are  coming  in  very  freely,  especi¬ 
ally  for  Hiis  season  of  Hie  year!  averaging  13,775  weekly. 
Prices  range  from  9)4o.  to  10)40.  per  lb.  live  weiglit. 


Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  1  Oth  of  the  preceding’  month. 

N.  B.— ATj  Adverttsement  of  Patent  Medicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parties  unknown  to  the  Editors  personal¬ 
ly  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to. furnish  good  re.ferences. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  will  do  what  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  up  to  these  requirements,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves. 

TERMS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  fit  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines),  .$65  eacli  insertion. 

One  whole  column  (MS  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Qiiarter  per  line. 


Ea>0J€;A'B'BO.'^’AS.  — A  RE¬ 

LIABLE  EXCHANGE,  conducted  in  the  interests  of 
all  well  educated  teachers,  and  of  parties  dosirinir  to  encrasie 
such.  As  the  ne.irotiatioiis  implied  cannot  be  hurried,  appli¬ 
cations  sliould  be  in  time.  Send  for  circulars.  Address  J.  A. 
NASH  &  Co.,  5  Beckman  St.,  N.  Y. 

F  IS  B  A  04  E .  ‘ 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 
L  ^  IV  X>  ® 

IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  StTBSCPJBEBS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farmim;  and  market  jrardenincr,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situnledin  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Buiiinirton, 
on  the  line  of  Hie  liarltan  and  Delaware  Bay  Hailroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-Vork  and  Philadelphia,  at  from  $10  to  $-’5 
per  acre.  In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm, 
these  lands  are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet 
potatoes,  peaches,  grapes,  tobacco  and  imps.  All 
crops  ripen  ten  days  earlier  than  on  Long  Islaml. 
Squanknm  marl  is  delivered  at  any  point  on  the  rail¬ 
road  at  one  dollar  and  tlfty  cents  per  ton.  and  fertil¬ 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  Ms  application.  The 
lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber,  suita¬ 
ble  (^or  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  otf.  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  qi  amity  ol  the  best  potters'  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered.  for  the  manutacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
ami  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  A  portion  of  the  purchase  money  may 
remain  on  mortgage. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHK'l'WOOD,  Elizabeth.  N.  J. 

WM.  ().  GILES.  70  &  Franklin-st.,  New-Vork. 
and  N.  P.  TODl),  ag't  Shamong  Burlington  Co.. 

New  Jersey. 

COOK’S  EVAPORATOR  and  tlie  best  Mills  are  to  be  had 
at  the  N.  Y.  Agency.  Address  J.  7V.  BAIN, 

Brest.  Am.  Ag'I  Works,  17  Courtlandt-street. 


THOMAS  McELROY.  Grower  .und 

^Importer  of  Foreign,  Agricultural,  Garden  and  Flower 
Seeds,  71  Bine-street,  New  YorK. 


liadia  HsnSsljer  Gloves 

are  an  invaluable  protection  for  Hie  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Cbapped  Hands, 
Sail  Rlieuin,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  60  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentieinen’s.  by 

GOODYEAR’S  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New- York. 


ISoItviaBB  Guabbo. 

Tills  valiialile  fertilizer,  riclier  in  Phosphates  than  any  oth¬ 
er  known  natural  orartilloial  manure,  for  sate  by  Hie  cargo 
For  terms  apply  to  (J.  G.  HOBSOIV,  4-i  ^outh-st., 
(where  samples  mav  be  seen,)  or  to  HENR'Y  KEN¬ 
DALL.  &  SONS,  London,  or  ALSOP  &  CO.,  Val¬ 
paraiso. 


pABSM  in  d 

mild  and  healthful  climate.  Tliirty  miles  nonth  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  by  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

Tlie  soil  is  rich  and  prortweWte,  varying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wheat,  Grass.  Corn.  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  fruit  conutrtj.  Five  hun¬ 

dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  have  liccn  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears.  &c.,  produce 
immense  profits.  Vinclami  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  Slates.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  iiiilesof  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  sj'stem  of  improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  piihlic  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  adviin- 
tages  has  become  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  has  in¬ 
creased  five  thousand  people  within  the  past  three  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  relincmciit  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  consirueted.  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  be  built  during  ihcsum- 
mer.  Ibice  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $'27 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  in 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business,  Lumiier  Yards,  Manii 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  the  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  healthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  other  social  privileges,  in  the 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  the  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  oi  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  1*.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinso7i^  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  esterisive  ferdlt 
tractSy  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condd 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  nj 
the  Western  Prairies, 


Every  Child  on  the  Continent  should  have  it ! 

The  Beet  Children’s  Paper  in  America. 


A  First-Class  MaHhly  Paper,  of  1C 
I’a^oSf  for  l>UV8  :in<l 

$1.00  a  Year  is  advasco. 

A  neautiful  Premium  to  every  subscriber. 
Sjiocimeo  Copy  sent  for  'Pen  CenU. 

Address, 

ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 
Publisher,  '  Chicago,  III. 

FOR  THE  BOYS  AND  GIRLS. 
MERRY’S  MUSEUM. 

The  Oldest  and  Best  magazine  for  Boys  and  Girls,  is 
filled  with  Stories.  Pictures,  Instruetive  Articles, 
Poetry,  Puzzles,  etc.,  to  amuse,  interest,  and- profit 
Hie  young.  Prizes  moiiHily.  for  solving  puzzles.  Vol.  50  lie- 
giiis  in  July.  A  Steel  Engraved  Portrait  of  Itnele  Wil¬ 
liam,  given  to  every  new  subscriber.  Terms  $1.50  per  an¬ 
num.  Address  .1.  N.  STEARNS.  Ill  Fiilton-st.,  New  York. 


It  Itips  SpICiBSlMily  I 

THE  PATENT  SEWING  RIPPER  has  proved  one 
of  the  most  acceptable  new  inventions.  It  takes  out  a 
seam  more  rapully  and  safely  than  knife  or  scissors, 
being  used  for  that  only,  is  always  in  order;  is  small  and 
neat  ;  is  indispensable  for  Hie  work  basket  and  especially 
wliere  a  sew  ing  machine  is  used. 

Price  50  cents  Sent  post-paid  by  mail.  Address 
A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New  York  City. 

Wheeler  &  Wilson’s 

SewfiEig:  Maciaiaies. 

Woman’s  Greatest  Boon.— 7Ve  would  advise  a  man  to  fore- 
goatliresber  and  tliresli  wheat  with  a  Hail  rather  Hian  to 
sec  Hie  wife  wear  lier  licaltli,  vigor  and  life  away  In  Hie  ever¬ 
lasting  "  stitch,  stitcli,  stitch.”  wlien  a  sewing  machine  can 
be  obtained.  The  Wheeler  &  Wilson  is  an  Invaluahle  aid  in 
every  household.  We  liave  liad  several  ditferent  kinds  on 
trial,  and  after  six  years’  service  the  Wheeler  &  IVilson  liaa 
taken  the  precedence  as  tlie  best,  wliere  all  kinds  of  sewing 
aretobedonein  a  family.— Amen'eon  .igricunurist,, J:\a.\S6ii 

MeBp  Sob*  Moli5ea*.«. 

Dr.  Brown’s  B.ABY  TENDER  relieves  HiC  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  cliild.  Is  giving  iiiiiver.sal  satis¬ 
faction.  See  foil  description  and  Jlr.  Jinld’s  endorse¬ 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dec.  No.,  1804.  Send  for  Ciiculai 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS,  939  Broadwtiy,  Ne’«  York  City. 


I860.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


237 


Great  educational  advantages  in 

THE  BEAUTIFUL  CONNECTICUT  RIVER 
VALLEY. 


BURNHAM’S 

Amcs'icaii  Hasisicss  CoSIcg'e, 

SPRINGFIELD,  MASS. 

An  Institution  Dcsistneti  to  Prepare  Young  Men  and 
Wonien"  lor  llusiness  Pursuits. 

LOUIS  W.  nUItNHAM, . President. 

E.  MOOIiE,  Jk.,  -  -  •  Associate  Principal. 


By  far  the  Largest,  most  Complete  and  Tliorougli  Institution 
of  tile  kind  in  New  England,  and  the  only  legitimate 
Business  College  wiicre  Young  Men  receive  a 
Tliorougli  Training,  and  are  properly 
fitted  for  ail  Business  Pursuits. 


A  Bnsiuess  Edaeation  alike  Important  to  the  Farm¬ 
er,  the  DIecliauic,  the  Artisan  and  the 
Business  Man. 


A  Model  and  Comprehensive  Course  of  Practical  Traininpt. 
Great  Improvement  in  the  Manner  and  Method  of 
Instruction, 

SPIiSINOSB  FA€IIi¥TIES  IN 
Book-Keeping,  Mercantile  Law, 

Penmanship,  Commercial  Calculations, 

Correspondence.  Telegraphy. 

Actual  Business,  Piionogk.vphy, 

AND  Modern  Languages. 


LABOR  FOR  FARMERS. 

flow  to  Obtain  a  Prompt  and  Satisfactory 
Supply. 

In  order  to  meet  the  presslnj?  want  of  Farm  laborers  felt 
In  all  parts  of  the  country,  especially  in  the  Western  States, 
the  AMEinCAN  EMIGUANT  COM'^PANV  has  organized  a 
system  by  which  men  can  be  supplied  in  any  number  that 
may  be  required  to  any  designated  locality  in  any  State  in 
the  Union. 

This  oliject  is  accomplished  by  parties  in  a  given  neighbor¬ 
hood  combining  together  and  ordering  such  men  and  women 
as  they  need.  Tliese  men  or  women  are  forwarded  in  com¬ 
panies  from  twenty  to  fifty  under  the  care  oi  a  conductor  to 
a  point  determined  on,  and  then  delivered  to  the  parties  (or 
their  Agents)  who  liave  ordereil  them.  The  utmost  care  is 
taken  l>y  the  Company  in  llie  selection  of  the  Emigrants  at 
New  York,  and  tlie  wishes  of  the  parties  ordering  them  as  to 
their  Nationalitv,  age,  and  general  qualillcations  are  care¬ 
fully  attended  to. 

A  naymenl  is  required  In  advance  of  a  snlficient  sum  to 
pay  tlie  traveling  expenses  to  the  point  Indicated,  the  Com¬ 
pany’s  fee  tor  the  services  Rendered,  and  the  costof  the  con¬ 
ductor  wlio  accompanies  the  party.  Legal  contracts  are 
made  with  the  Emigrants  In  accordance  with  the  instructions 
received  both  as  to  the  rate  of  wages  to  be  paid,  and  the 
length  of  engagement  made. 

By  tliis  means  the  Emigrants  constantly  arriving  In  New- 
York,  may  he  dispersed  all  through  the  country  and  with  small 
cost  to  the  employer,  as  the  expense  of  transportation  will, 
in  all  cases  be  stipulated  to  be  repaid  by  the  Emigrant. 

A  large  number  of  carefully  selected  Swedish.  German, 
and  British  farm  laborersare  expected  to  arrive  during  the 
present  season,  and  it  is  suggested  to  farmers  in  all  sections 
of  the  country  to  avail  themselves  without  delay  of  the  op¬ 
portunity  thus  afforded  of  obtaining  male  and  female  help 
in  the  promptest  and  most  economical  manner. 

For  further  particulars  Address 

JOHN  WILLIAMS. 

General  Agent  for  Emigration, 

3  Bowling  Green,  New  York. 


GROVER  8l  BAKER’S 

MIGlIIiiST  rieiE.Tiitiiu 


ELASTIC  STTTCIl  ASD  LOCK  STITCH 


SEWING  MACHINES, 

49.5  ESKOABWAY,  NEW  YORK. 

$275.  $275. 


Seliool  Room  and  Counting  Room  united  upon 
a  plan  that  secures  all  the  practical  a<ivantagcs  of  each. 
Theoretical  Department  and  Department  of  Actual  Business 
connected  by  Telegraphic  and  Post  Office  communication. 
Two  Banking  Houses  with  Bank  Bills,  Checks,  Drafts,  Cer- 
tifleates  of  Deposits  and  all  the  modus  ope?'a?idi  ol'  the  Bank¬ 
ing  Business.  It  is  elegantly  fitted  up  with 
merchants’  Ein|iorium  and  Trade  Union, 
General  and  National  Banking  OiUces, 
Auction,  Commission  and  Forwarding, 

Post,  Telegraph  and  Fxpress  Offices, 
Insurance,  Fxchangc  and  Collection, 

Custom  House,  manufacturing.  Railroad, 
Steamboat  and  General  Freight  Offices,  &c. 


The  Student  Buys,  Sells,  Barters,  Sinps,  Consigns, 
Discounts,  Insures,  &c.,  the  same  as  in  Actual  Business. 

Ladies  and  Gentlemen  can  commence  at  any  time,  receive 
Individual  Instruction,  and  complete  the  course  at  pleasure, 
there  being  no  class  system  to  impede  their  progress.  Young 
Men  in  pursuit  of  a  Business  Education  should  examine  into 
the  merits  of  the 

American  I58i§isiess  College. 

It  is  first  class  In  all  of  Its  appointments.  Each  department 
Is  under  the  special  charge  ol  First  Class  Teachers,  the  whole 
under  Immetliate  superintendence  of  the  President.  Its 
graduates  are  skillful  and  finished  accountants,  who  secure 
the  most  lucrative  situations. 

Normal  Writing  Department  In  charge  of  Prof. 
I.  S.  Preston,  one  of  the  best  Business  and  Ornaniental  Pen¬ 
men  and  Teacliers  on  the  continent.  Send  stamps  for  spec¬ 
imens. 

Returned  and  Disabled  Soldiers  will  find  in  a 
sound  Business  Education  the  surest  and  best  means  of  gain¬ 
ing  a  liveliliood.  Liberal  deductions  will  .always  be  made  to 
Soldiers  who  have  received  disabling  and  lionorable  wounds 
wliile  in  their  country’s  service. 

Necessary  Q,uallfications.— No  particular  degree 
of  advancement  is  required.  Any  liuiustrions  person  can 
enter  tins  College  with  an  absolute  certainty  of  success. 

Send  us  Names.— To  persons  who  will  send  us,  plain¬ 
ly  written,  the  names  and  P.  O.  address  of  forty  or  fifty 
young  men  likely  to  be  interested  in  obtaining  a  business 
education,  we  will  forward  onrCoLLKOK  Ueview  and  “How 
TO  Do  Business,"  a  manual  of  practical  afiairs  and  guide 
to  success  in  life.  Our  premium  is  liberal.  Send  us  only  one 
name  from  a  family,  and  not  over  a  dozen  from  one  village 
or  small  town. 

Particulars— How  Obtained.— Circulars.  Papers, 
&c..  giving  full  particulars  relaiing  to  tbe  Course  of  Study, 
exact  expense  of  Board  and  Tuition,  may  be  liad  by  addres¬ 
sing  liOUIS  W.  BURNHAM,  President, 

Springtield,  Mass, 


T  air  nip  Seed  by  Mail. 


Tlie  following  varieties,  the  quality  of  wliich  can  not  be 
excelled,  will  be  mailed  post  paid,  to  any  address  in  tlie 
Union  upon  receipt  of  price  affixed. 


per  oz. 

4  oas. 

8  OHS. 

po7cnd. 

Early  White  Dutch . 

.10  cts. 

35  cts. 

GO  cts. 

$I  00 

White  Strap  Leaf . 

10  " 

85 

“ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Red  Top  Strap  Leaf . 

.10  “ 

35 

GO  “ 

1  00 

Large  White  Globe . 

,.10  “ 

30 

“ 

50  “ 

73 

Large  White  Norfolk . 

..10  “ 

30 

50  “ 

75 

Yellow  Aberdeen . 

..10  “ 

33 

« 

60  “ 

1  00 

Golden  Ball  (Robertson’s), 

..10  “ 

35 

“ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Large  Yellow  Globe,  extra.lO  “ 

85 

“ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Long  White  French . . 

,.10  “ 

85 

** 

60  “ 

1  00 

Sweet  German . 

..10  " 

35 

60  “ 

1  00 

Long  White  or  Cow  Horn. 

.10  “ 

35 

60  “ 

1  00 

Purple  Top  Ruta-B.aga.... 

.10  “ 

33 

“ 

60 

1  00 

Dale’s  Hybrid . . 

..10  “ 

30 

“ 

50  “ 

75 

Tellow  Finland, . 

45 

“ 

80  “ 

1  50 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


THOROUGH-BRED  Ayrshires  and  Alderneys  for 

sale  by  A.  M.  TEEDWELL,  Madison,  Morris  Co.,  N.  J. 


M.  CtUBMBY,  St.  Jolmsville,  X.  Y. 

Pure  Italian  Bees  and  Queens.  Send  for  Circular. 


For  sale,  full  Blood  south  Down  Bucks,  apply 
by  maU  to  E.  E.  UVUSGSTON,  Tivoli,  H.  Y. 


ACSEiVCIES: 

NEW  ENGLAND. 

Edwakd  Winslow,  80  State-st.,  Boston. 

ILLINOIS. 

C.  Geanville  Hammond— Solomon  Stueges  Son,  Cliicago. 
MISSOUIU. 

Taos.  E.  SOOPEK,  Treas.  State  Board  of  Immigration, 
cor.  Eourtli  and  Piiie-sts.,  St.  Louis. 

INDIANA. 

J.  Baknakd,  Sect'y  Chamber  of  Commerce,  Indianapolis. 
OHIO. 

Samuel  Fol-tambe,  1  Atwater  Buildings,  Cleveland. 

MICHIGAN. 

E.  C.  Hinsdale,  Detroit. 


Sheffield  Scientific  School  of  Yale  College. 

Courses  of  Agricultur«al  Instruction,  including  the  Prac¬ 
tice  of  Agriculture  and  Horticulture,  Agricultural  Chemistry 
and  Physiology,  Principles  of  Breeding  and  Feeding,  Inju¬ 
rious  Insects,  Rural  Economy,  Forestry,  French  and  German 
Languages,  &c.,  &c.  Open  Sept,  13th.  1865.  For  detailed  Pro¬ 
gramme,  apply  to  Prof.  GEO.  J.  BlwUSlI,  New  Haven,  Conn, 


ROSEV/OOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  43»0  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  witli  latestimprovcments. 

Thirty  years’ experience,  with  greatly  increased  facilities 
for  manufacturing,  enable  us  to  sell  for  CASH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  inst.ruments  received  the  liigliest 
award  at  the  W  Grid’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  veaYs  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Cask.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 


Simple,  Strong  svncl  Durable. 


And  unapproachable  for  speed,  power  and  effecUvcni'tS 
of  operation. 

Dealers  Supplied.  Send  for  free  Circular  to 

OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  1S4  Wiiter-st..  New  York. 


Tlac  BriBfikerb©ir  Chaas'ai. 

“  We  have  long  despaired  of  finding  a  patent  Churn,  which 
would  in  all  essentials  surpass  the  old  dash  churn,  but  be¬ 
lieve  we  must  succumb  at  last.  If  we  mistake  not,  the  Brink- 
erhoff  churn  will  prove  the  long  sought  desideratum  among 
butter-makers.”— Uural  New  Yorker  of  1863. 

“The  Brinkerhort*  Churn  seems  to  stand  the  test  well;  we 
have  lately  received  several  communications  in  its  favor  in 
answer  to  an  article  lately  published  in  the  Kural.  We  are 
glad  to  know  that  the  churn  has  maintained  the  character 
we  gave  it  when  first  introduced”— Uural  New  Yorker  of  1865. 

“Tills  Churn  has,  for  the  last  three  years,  stood  the  only 
decisive  test,  that  of  actual  use  in  good  dairies,  and  has  come 
out  approved.  There  can  be  no  doubt  of  Mr.  Brinkerhofl''s 
having  distanced  all  competitors,  and  his  churn  must  inevi¬ 
tably  come  into  general  use.  It  not  only  reduces  the  once 
laborious  and  tedious  businessof  churning,  to  a  few  minute.s, 
but  it  actually  attain.^  a  better  result,  than  can 
be  reached  by  the  old  process.  So  much  we  can  say  after 
using  this  churn  for  years.”— Northern  Independent,  N.  Y. 

The  price  for  common  size  forchiiruing  l  toG  gallons,  $10, 
shipped  to  order  on  receipt  of  price.  For  churns  or  Terri¬ 
tory,  Address  JACOB  BUINKEKHOFF,  Auburn,  N.  Y. 


Faints  for  farmers  and  others.— The  Graf¬ 
ton  Mineral  Paint  Co.,  are  now  manufacturing  the  Best, 
Cheapest  and  most  Durable  Paint  in  use ;  two  coats  well  put 
on,  mixed  with  pure  Linseed  Oil  will  last  10  or  15  years,  it  is 
of  a  light  brown  or  beautiful  chocolate  color  and  can  be 
changed  to  green,  lead,  stone,  drab,  olive  or  cream,  to  suit 
the  taste  of  the  consumer.  It  is  valuable  for  Houses,  Darns, 
Fences,  Carriage  and  Car-makers,  Pails  and  Wooden-ware, 
Agricultural  Implements,  Canal  Boats,  Vessels  and  Ships’ 
Bottoms,  Canvas,  Metal  and  Shingle  Uoofs,  (it  being  Fire 
and  Water  proof).  Floor  Oil-Cloth  Manuf.  (one  Manuf.  hav¬ 
ing  used  in  the  past  year  2000  bbls.,  and  as  a  paint  is  unsur¬ 
passed  for  body,  durability,  elasticity,  and  adhesiveness. 
Send  for  a  circular  which  gives  particulars.  Price  2  cts.  per 
lb.,  or  $6  per  bbl..  of  300  lbs.,  which  will  supply  a  farmer  for 
years  to  come.  None  genuine  unless  branded  in  a  trade 
mark  Grafton  Mineral  Paint  Work.  Address 

DANIEL  BIDWELL,  254  Peari-st.,  New  York. 


WHAT  MAICHLESS  BKAUTY 

Lingers  on  every  glossy  wave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

IVIIViS’ 
PATENT 

II A  I  R 

CRIMPERS, 

For  crimping  and  waving  L.a- 
dios  liair.  No.  heat  used^  and 
no  uijnrij  to  the  hair. 

They  are  put  up  in  beauti¬ 
fully  lithographed  boxes  con- 
taiiiing  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort- 
direciions  for  use  accompanying 

caeli  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  is-iiomplete  wilhout  tliem.  For  sale 
throughout  the  coiintrv.  Ketailers  will  be  supplied  by  any 
first-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  York,  Philadelphia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTUUED  ONLY  BY 

E«  IVINS,  Sixtli-st.  and  Columbia  Avo., 
PUiladelpUia,  Fa. 


Cured  liy  Bates’  Patent  Appliances.  For  descriptive  pam¬ 
phlet,  Address  11.  C.  L.  MEANS,  27T  West  23d-st.,  N.  Y. 


American  roofing  company. 

GREEN’S  PATENT. 

Tills  Company  is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  tlie  best 
articles  of  HOOFING  ever  introduced,  consisting  of  a  STOUT 
MATERIAL  made  WATEH-PBOOF  by  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  KUBBEK  hardened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  e.xpressly. 

The  WHOLE  FABRIC  has  been  thoroughly  tested,  is  entire¬ 
ly  WATER-PROOF,  and  unaffected  by  changes  of  weather. 
It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Clotli. 

It  is  designed  for  covering  RAILWAY  CARS,  STEAM¬ 
BOATS,  DWELLINGS,  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  cheaper  tlian  any  known  roofing  of  equal  durability. 
It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samples  had  by  applying  at  tbe 
Office  of  the  Company.  No.  94  Wall-st..  New  York. 

HENRY  SMITH,  Agent. 


Farmer  and  general  Care  Taker  Wanted. 

Wanted  in  a  country  place,  one  hour  from  this  City,  an 
energetic,  capable,  Protestant  man,  from  25  to  40  years  of 
age.  Address  BOX  4616,  P.  O.,  New  York. 


I"  EAKY  SHINGLE,  CANVAS  or  FELT  ROOFS 

.H-^can  be  made  water-tight  by  using  the  GUTTA  PEliCHA 
CE.MENT.  LEAKY  TIN  ROOFS  will  wear  five  time.s  a.s 
long  if  coated  witli  thcGUTTA  PERCHA  CEMENT  PAINT, 
ti.e'best  Paint  for  Agricultural  Implements,  ont-hnildings, 
Fences,  &c..  &c.  Maiinliictured  ready  lor  use  by  the 

JOHNS  &  CROSLEY  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

No.  78  William-st.,  cor.  Liberty,  New-T  ork. 
Solo  Manufacturers  of  the  Gutta  Percha  Cement  Roofing. 


l^OTICE  TO  CHURCHES  AND  SCHOOLS.— 

-L.  BELLS  within  tlie  reacli  of  all.  The  AMALGAM  BELL, 
known  tlirougliout  tlie  United  States  and  Canadas  as  tlie 
clieapest  and  best.  Price  reduced  to  20  cents  per  pound,  and 
warranted.  Send  for  descriptive  circular  to  liie  manulactur- 
er,  JOHN  B.  ROBINSON,  No.  36  Dey-st.,  New  York. 


CALVES’  RENNETS  FOR  CHEESE  DAIRIES 

and  for  Family  Use.  A  supply  always  on  liand.  Orders 

promptly  attended  to.  Address  _ 

^  GEORGE  GOODIIEART, 

737  Greet  ff  ch-st..  New  York. 


228 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST, 


[JtriiV, 


GARDEN  &  CEMETERY 

ADORNMENTS. 


FOiMTAiws,  ¥^sis,  ae, 

Stiiixiiiei*  Uotises^ 
ARBORS,  CHAIRS,  SETTEES,  &o. 

V/IRE  TRELLISES  ARD  ARCHES, 

FOR  VINES,  FLOWERS,  &c. 


IRON  FURNITURE, 

Bedsteads  of  Every  Description 

For  Dwellings,  Public  Institutions,  Hospitals, 
Prisons,  &c. 

Patent  §|Ji’siig  Beds,  Mattresses,  &c. 


STABLE  FIXTURES 

Hay  Racks,  Mangers,  Stall  Divisions,  &c. 


IRON  RAILING, 

For  enclosing  Cemetery  Plots,  Offices,  Dwellings, 
Public  Squares,  &c. 


Having  purcliased  the  business  ot  the  New  York  Wire 
Ilailiiis  Company,  IIutouinson  &  Wickeksham  late  Agents, 
we  are  now  the  exclusive  Owners  and  Manufacturers  of 

Patent  Wire  Railing  and  Farm 
Fencingj  Window  Guards,  &c. 

And  we  offer  to  the  public  the  largest  variety  of  ORNA¬ 
MENTAL  IKON  GOODS  to  be  found  in  the  United  States. 
Particular  attention  given  to  Export  trade. 

CHASE  &  CO. 

Warerooms  524  Broadway, 

Oppesite  St.  Sieliolas  Hotel,  NEW  YORK. 

FAIRBAMM’S 


mnm 


mn. 


Adapted  to  every  branch  of  business  where  a  correct  and 
durable  scale  is  retjuirt;d. 

FAIKBAWM8  &  C®., 

Wo.  253  Broadway, 

OPPOSITE  CITY  HALL. 

Millsioiae  Dressing'  Dlsamoiicls 

P>'otector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  .JOHN 
DICKENSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  ol  Diamonds  Cor  all  .Meclianical  purposes.  Also  Man- 
ulactur<T  ot  Glaciers'  Diainoiuls,  No.  G4  Nassan-st,  New* 
lork  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  posta^’e 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  the  Diamond  Dresser'. 

Wliat  can  be  Uoiie  witia 

EBBYUS  FATEWT 
MerosoBa®  Stoves, 

Tea  Kettle  Boiled— Bread  Baked— Meat 
I!oasted--Stewed  and  Fried— Flat  Irons 
Ileated— No  Heatfxg  tip  the  House- 
Money  Saved.  LESLEY  &  ELLIOTT, 
Manufacturers.  491  Broadway.  New  York. 

SCIBKWS,5  feet  lonir, 
■y^l  inches  in  diameter.  Tliese  powerful  screws  bring  out 
'A  more  juice  than  portahle  presses.  Send  lor  Circular  Made 
by  THOMPSON  &  CAUPENTER. 

Po’keepsle,  (N.  Y.)  Foundry. 

»^nE  RICHMOND  STEAM  THRASHERS  built 
at  tlie  Kohinson  Machine  Works,  Richmond.  Indiana 
arc  the  Ivst  in  use.  Great  capacity  for  fast  Tlirashing,  Saving 
and  cleaning  the  grain.  Address 

JONAS  VV.  'YEO.  Richmond,  Indiana. 

B to  ISoeks  dug  per  day. 

For  improved  machine  for  digging  rocks,  laving  wall.  &c. 
Address  O  L.  SHELDON,  Hartsville,  BerltsUlre  Co.,  Muss. 
Please  send  for  circular. 


A,  M.  W®®II  & 

Celclsraictl  Portable  Sf.t'aEsi  Engine. 

The  above  cut  represents  our  Engine  as  seen  without 
wheels.  For  farmins:  purposes  we  build  them  on  wheels 
that  a  pair  of  horses  can  easily  move  about  from  one  stack 
of  ?rain  to  another,  with  especial  reference  to  threshing,  &c. 
We  make  the  building  of  these  Engines  a  specialty— conse* 
quently  can  afford  them  cheaper,  and  as  a  matter  of  course, 
of  better  quality  than  Yvhen  they  are  built  in  connection  with 
other  machinery.  We  warrant  them  to  work  as  we  repre¬ 
sent  or  the  pay  will  be  refunded. 

Should  parties  wish  to  enquire  in  this  city  about  our  work, 
we  would  refer  them  to  Wm.  Porter  &  Sons,  271  Pearl-street, 
who  are  using  one  of  G-horse  power  daily.  We  intend  to 
keep  a  variety  of  sizes  on  hand  that  we  can  ship  one  of  any 
size  prompt.  For  further  information.  Address 

A.  N.  WOOD  &  CO.,  Eaton,  Madison  Co.,  N.  Y. 


THE 


BEST 


IS 


THE  C2IEA1»EST. 


5  b 

a* 

c 


w 
w 

H  S 

o 


Q 

o 

B 

o’ 


After  extensive  introduction  and  ttiorongli  trial,  is  now 
offered  to  tlic  public  in  its  improved  form.  Agents  wanted. 
Town,  County,  and  State  Uiglits  for  sale. 

Address  A.  M.  HALSTED.  6T  Pear!-st.,  Now-York. 


Uiiioii  Mowing  Macliisie. 

Reduction  iii  Frice, 

i  ft.  Machine  from  $170  to  $145. 

AA  ft.  “  “  $190  to  $170. 

Wheeled  Hay  Rakes. 

Clement’s  Horse  Hay  Fork. 

Hai-vestimg  Tools  of  the  most  approved  kinds  at 
the  lowest  prices.  HAINES  &  PELL. 

27  Courtlandt-st.,  New  York. 


Pnitrs  Steel  Tootli,  Father  ©f  the 

FIEDO,  Hay  and  Grain  Rake,  Price  S.'jO. 

Beardsley’s  Patent  Steel  Hay  Ele- 

vator.  The  Best  in  the  Market.  Price  $10. 

Kirfey’s  M®wcr,  Beaper,  and  Self 

Ilalcer.  The  Best  and  kowest  Price  Machine  in  the 
field.  Send  for  Circular. 

Manufactured  and  sold  by 

GRIFFIN  G  BROTHER  &  CO., 

60  Courtlandt-st.,  N.  Y. 


IMPBEOVEB 
HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  PRESSES. 

These  machines  Imve  been  tested  in  the  most  thorou'-h 
manner  tlironghout  tliis  and  foreign  countries  to  the  nuin- 
ber  ol  over  8000. 

The  House  Poweu  Is  worked  by  eltlier  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  in  many  respects  possesses  unequalled  ndvantage.s.  We  ! 
invite  those  warning  such  maeliines  to  write  fora  catalogue  i 
containing  full  information  tvith  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
c.\ainlne  porsonally. 

''Htmded  to,  by  addressing 

INGKKSuLL  &  DOUGIIEUTY,  Greouiioint,  Kings  CO-.L.  I. 


PKICES  REDUCED  I 

The  Universal  Oiothes  Wringer, 

WSTal 

Pricks— No.  IK,  $10;  No.  2.  $8  50. 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST. 

“This  is  tlie  lirst  Wringer  I  iiave  found  tliat  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.”— .1.  P.  lIociGixs,  Lovejoy's  Hotel. 

“  In  the  laundry  of  my  liouse  tliere  is  a  perpetual  tlianks- 
giving  on  Mondays  for  tlie  invention  of  your  e.xcellent 
Wringer."— Rev.  Theo.  L.  Ccyler. 

“  We  think  the  Maciilne  mncli  more  than  pays  for  itscll 
every  year  in  tlie  saving  ol  garments,”  "Wetliink  it  im 
portaut  that  a  Wringer  sliould  lie  lilted  with  COOS." 

Orange  Judd,  American  Agriculturist. 

“The  inventor  of  this  Machine  may  iiave  the  satislaction 
of  knowing  that  he  lias  clianged  one  of  the  most  toilsome 
parts  ol  woman’s  work  into  a  most  attractive  amusement."- 
Mrs.  Henry  Ward  Beecher. 

“  I  heartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  monev  and 
contentment.”— Rev  Dr.  Bellows. 

8^  On  receipt  of  price  from  any  part  of  the  conntrv 
where  we  have  no  canvassers,  we  send  the  Wringer  free  of 
freiglit  cliarges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  townsiiip. 

R.  C.  BROWNING,  34^7  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

IWVAMD’S  TRAVELING 
CHAIRS,  for  in  or  out-door  use. 
Prices,  $20  to  $50.  Tliose  like  tlie 
cut,  $25  to  $35,  light  and  strong. 
Can  be  propelled  by  the  liands.— 
PATENT  CANTERING  HORSES, 
for  out-door  exercise  and  amnse- 
meiit.  Every  boy  and  girl  wants 
one,  prices  $12  to  $25.  Send  stamp 
for  circular.  Children's  Carriages, 
Horse  Rocking  Cliaii  s,  etc. 

S.  W.  SMITH. 

90  William-st.,  New- York. 

The  PEOPLE’S  CLOTHES  WRINGER,  the  best, 

tlie  clieapest,  and  most  durable,  Cork  Rolls,  Cog  Wlieels, 
Galvanized  Iron  Frame.  Depot  of  the  Company  491  Broad¬ 
way.  New  York.  Price  $9.00.  Agents  and  Shippers  liberal¬ 
ly  dealt  witli.  Send  for  Circular. 

^heep  &.  Laixib 


Dipping  Composition, 

Cures  Scab,  Ticks  and  Lice  on  Sheep  or  Cattle,  adds 
over  a  pound  of  wool  to  the  Heece,  improves  its  quality,  and 
adds  to  tlie  general  health  of  the  sheep,  without  danger 
from  taking  cold. 

For  particulars  apply  to 

LALOR  brothers.  Utica,  N.  T 
Agents  wanted  for  every  State. 

Also  for  sale,  wholesale  and  retail  by 

GUIFFING  BROTHER  &  CG.. 

GO  Courtlandt-st.,  New-Tork, 
and  H.  B.  LANE,  151  Nassan-st..  New-York. 

To  Evei-y  lU’us.i'-iTiei'* 

wisliinjc  ft  better  furrow-tnrninsr  Plow  tlinn  he  lifts  ever  ye 
used,  wlio  sends  me  $12,  I  willYorwftrd  ft  Coisical  Plow 
complete,  wftrninted  to  judve  sfttislftrt.ion  or  the  money  will 
be  reinrned  on  the  return  oi'  the  Plow.  Send  full  particu¬ 
lars  to  the  manufacturer. 

SOLOMON  MEAD.  New  Haven,  Conn. 


Wlicel  Plow  and  Cnlt.ivntor  Riglils  for  Sale.— Scud  for  Cir- 
ciilar.s.  Address  .1.  W.  Il.MN,  l“i est.  American  Agrlcnllurai 
Worki  17  t’onrtlaiidust..  Kow-l'qrU. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AG-PwTCIJETURTST 


9Q9 


BEST LArJOSln  the"^  WO^LO 


li'OR,  S^LE  BIT  TI-IE 

ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  CO., 

En  Tract?  to  suit  Purchasers,  AT  ZjOW  PH2CSS. 


THE  ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD  COMPANY  HAVE  FOR  SALE, 

©0O5O00  ACHES  of  the  best  Farming  Lands  in  tlie  Country. 

I 

j  The  road  extends  from  Dunleilh,  in  the  north-western  part  of  the  State,  to  Cairo,  in  the  extreme  southern 

j  part,  with  a  hrancli  from  Centralia,  one  hundred  and  thirteen  miles  north  of  Cairo,  to  Chicago,  on  the  shore  of 
I  Lake  llichigau — altogether  a  length  of  704  miles — and  the  Ifind  which  is  offered  for  sale  is  situated  upon  either 
I  side  of  the  track,  in  no  instance  at  a  greater  distance  than  flfteen  miles. 

State  of  Illinois. 

The  rapid  development  of  Illinois,  its  steady  increase  in  population  and  wealth,  and  its  capacity  to  produce 
cheap  food,  are  matters  for  wonder  and  admiration.  The  United  States  Commissioner  of  Agriculture  estimates 
the  amounts  of  the  principal  crops  of  1804,  for  the  whole  country,  as  follows:  Indian  corn,  630,581 ,403  bushels; 
wheat,  100,695,823  bushels;  oats,  176,600,004  bushels;  of  which  llie  farms  of  Illinois  yielded  138,350,135  bushels 
of  Indian  corn;  33,371,173  bushels  of  wheat;  and  24,273,751  bushels  of  oats — in  reality  more  than  one-fourth  of 
the  corn,  more  than  one-fifth  of  the  wheat,  and  almost  one-seventh  of  the  oats  produced  in  all  the  United  States. 

Grain— Stock  Raising. 

rre-cminontly  the  first  in  the  list  of  grain-exportiug  States,  Illinois  is  also  the  great  cattle  State  of  the 
Union.  Its  fertile  prairies  are  well  adapted  by  nature  to  the  raising  of  cattle,  sheep,  horses  and  mules;  and  in 
the  important  interest  of  pork  packing,  it  is  far  in  advance  of  every  other  State.  Tlio  seeding  of  these  prairie 
lands  to  tame  grasses  for  pasturage  or  hay,  offers  to  farmers  with  capital  the  most  profitable  results.  The 
hay  crop  of  Illinois  in  1864  is  estimated  at  2,100,725  tons,  which  is  more  than  half  a  million  tons  larger  than  the 
crop  of  any  other  State,  excepting  only  New  York. 

Inducements  to  Settlers. 

Tlie  attention  of  persons,  whoso  limited  means  forbid  the  purchase  of  a  homestead  in  the  older  States,  is 
particularly  invited  to  these  lands.  Within  ten  years  the  Illinois  Central  Railroad  Company  has  sold  1,400,000 
acres,  to  more  than  20,009  actual  settlers:  and  during  the  last  year  264,422  acres — a  larger  aggregate  of  sales 
than  in  any  one  year  since  the  opening  of  the  road.  The  farms  are  sold  in  tracts  of  forty  or  eighty  acres, 
suited  to  the  settler  with  limited  capital,  or  in  larger  tracts,  as  may  be  required  by  the  capitalist  and  stock 
raiser.  The  soil  is  of  unsurpassed  fertility  ;  the  climate  is  healthy  ;  taxes  are  low  ;  churches  and  schools 
are  becoming  abundant  throughout  the  length  and  breadth  of  the  State  ;  and  communication  with  all  the  great 
markets  is  made  easy  through  railroads,  canals  and  rivers. 

PKICES  AND  TERMS  OP  PATMENT. 

The  price  of  lands  varies  from  $9  to  $15  and  upwards  per  acre,  and  they  are  sold  on  short  credit,  or  for 
cash.  A  deduction  of  ten  per  cent,  from  the  short  credit  price  is  made  to  those  who  buy  for  cash. 


EXAMPLE: 

Forty  acres  at  $10  per  acre,  on  credit;  the  principal  one-quarter  cash  down — balance  one,  two  and  three 
years,  at  six  per  cent,  interest,  m  advance,  eacli  year. 


Cash  Pavmcnt, . 

Interest. 

Principal. 
$100  00  1 

1  Payment  In  two  Tears,. . 

Interest. 

Principal. 
100  00 

Paymeul  in  one  year . 

100  00  I 

••  three  years, 

100  00 

fTbe 

@unie  Eand 

ni:!y  be 

B-urcSiased  for 

@3GO  CnRili, 

Full  information  on.  all  points,  together  with  maps,  showing  the  exact  location  of  Lands,  will  bo  furnished 
on  application ,  in  person  or  by  letter,  10 


LAND  COr^IVIlSSSONER,  Illinois  Centra!  R.  R.  Co.,  Chicago,  Illinois.  | 


JEHSEY  FARM  FOR  SALE;  near  Morris  and 

Ksse.x  li.  li.,  120  Acres  of  good  land.  For  particulars  in¬ 
quire  of  U.  ilKNDUiC,  lioom  13,  Erie  lluildings,  N.  V.  City 


H.  M.  fgliss’  Seed  Catalog’iie 

anti  Giiitlc  to  tlie  Flower  &  KitcUen  Garden, 
contains  upward  of  One  Hundred  Pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  beautifully  illustrated ;  will  be 
mailed  post-paid,  to  all  applicants  enclosing  25  cents. 

Tile  rW'ew  ^ti-awliez’x'ies- 

Fine  plants  of  the  Great  Wisconsin,  Agriculturist,  Great 
BuUalo,  French's  Seedling,  Russell,  Rivers’  Eliza,  .Marguer¬ 
ite,  and  all  other  choice  sorts,  the  largest  and  finest  assort¬ 
ment  ever  ofiered.  Catalogues  ready.  Agents  wanted. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Flyraouth,  JIass. 


Strawtoerry  Plants. 

Agriculturist  and  the  other  leading  sorts  for  sale  by 
PARSONS  &  CO..  Flushing,  N.  T. 


PORTABLE 

PRINTING  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants,  Druggists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers, 
*c.  Address  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  26  Aim-st.,  New  York. 
Bpeclmen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &C,,  Six  cents. 


Seymour’s  Patent  Tree  Protector. 

Tlie  above  is  a  neat  and  useful  invention  for  protecting 
orchards  and  shade  trees  from  tlie  ravages  of  the  caterpillar, 
canker  and  other  worms  tliat  now  infest  our  trees  to  such  an 
alarming  e.vtent.  It  consists  of  an  iron  trougli  made  to  en 
circle  the  trunk,  containing  coal  oil  or  any  gummy  substance ; 
this  is  protected  from  tlie  weather  by  an  iron  roof  cover. 
The  whole  made  in  sections  and  so  constructed  as  to  allow 
for  the  growth  or  expansion  of  the  trunk  without  checking 
the  flow  of  sap.  When  applied  to  the  tree,  it  prevents  the 
passage  up  of  the  female  moth  or  miller  (which,  it  will  be  no¬ 
ticed,  does  not  fly),  it  at  the  same  time  catches  and  dcstioys 
them  with  all  other  insects  that  crawl  upon  the  bariv,  there¬ 
by  shielding  the  fiuit  and  foliage  Irom  this  terrible  nuisance. 
It  i-s  so  neat,  simple  and  eflcctual,  and  sold  at  so  moderate  a 
price  as  to  commend  it  to  the  attention  of  all  owning  trees 
of  any  value.  The  underi^igned  have  secured  from  the 
Patentee  the  exclusive  nght  to  manufacture  and  sell  this 
valuable  invention  throughout  the  United  States.  All  or¬ 
ders  should  state  the  girth  or  diameter  of  the  trees,  in 
inches,  for  which  they  are  wanted.  Tv  ^»ead  off  the  canker, 
span  or  measure  worm  they  should  be  applied  to  the  tree  in 
October.  Orders  addresse.d  to  our  maiuUactory,  New  Britain, 
Conn.,  or  to  our  Warehouse,  No.  58  Beekman  st..  New  York, 
will  be  tilled  in  their  turn.  A  liberal  discohnt  made  to  deal* 
era.  P.  &  F.  COKBIN,  New  Britain,  Conn. 

Hot  Witter  Furnaces 

for  Warming  Grcen-liouscs,  Couservato- 
rics.  Graperies,  &c. 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Princc-Bt.,  New-Tork. 


The  Missisaarl  C'^sespasay, 

Oilicc  iVo.  12  IV'orlls  FiOli  Streef, 

>  St.  B.oiiis,  Missouri. 


DIRECTORS ; 

E.  W,  FOX,  of  Pratt  &  Fox. 

W.  H.  iMAURICE,  late  County  Collector. 

MADISON  MILLER.  Fuiul  Connnissioner  Pacific  R,  K. 

W.  H.  BENTON,  late  Pomeroy  &  Benton. 

CHAS.  H.  HOWLAND,  State  Senator. 

C.  IL  HOWLAND.  Pres't. }  M.  MII.LER,  T.aiul  Connnissioner. 
W.  11.  MAURICE,  V.-Prs.  i  FELIX  COSTE,  Treasurer. 

Pnrcliast!  aiid  Sell  Real  Eslale  of  all  tlcscrip- 
tions.  Attend  to  the  Psiymeiit  of  Taxes,  lor  non-resi¬ 
dents;  and  the  development  or  sale  of  Mineral  Lands.— Have 
extra  facilities  for  placing  Capital  seeking  investnx“nt  in 
Western  Lands.— Will  loan  monies  on  productive  Real-Es¬ 
tate  Securit}',  in  City  or  Country  as  may  he  desired. 

Emigrants  seeking  Homes,  or  .Igenfs  for  Colo¬ 
nics  desiring  to  loc.atc  large  bodies  of  Lands  will  find  it  to 
their  advantage  to  apply  to  this  Company. 

All  Communications  promptly  answered  without  charge 


The  undersigned  is  personally  acquainted  with  the  abov* 
named  Gentlemen,  and  cheerfully  testifies  to  their  high  ro 
spectahility,  trustfulness,  and  ability  as  husine.  men. 

FREDERICK  MUENCH.  Sta.  e  Senator. 

of  Strawberry, 

Kaspberry,  and  Slackbcrry 
Plants,  Currant  and  Gooseberry  ISiislies, 
Grape  Vines,  &c. 

We  will  issue  this  month,  a  new  Edition  of  our  Catalogue 
containing  a  Report  of  our 

S  T  R  A  W  B  E  IS  IS  Y  E  X I S I  Si  I T  E  ©X 

in  June,  and  nmcli  otlier  valuable  information  to  growers 
of  Small  Fruits,  wliich  will  be  sent  to  all  applicants  enclos¬ 
ing  10  cen  s.  J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Piltsburgli.  Pa. 


IOO9OOO 

apple  trees,  first  chiss,  cheap,  at  a  Bai-gain. 
For  particulars.  Address 

EENUS  &  <■©., 
Humboldt  Nurseries, 

'Poledo,  O. 

MAT  I  ¥12  WIME. 

Large  tract?  of  lanrl  can  now  be  secured  in  North  Caroli¬ 
na  ancl  Vir^Siia,  at  low  rates,  in  localities  as  well  adapted  to 
tlie  culture  of  grapes  for  wine  as  the  best  wine  districts  of 
Ca.iiorniaor  France.  Tlie  writer’s  experience  qualifies  him 
f.jr  planting  and  managing  a  vineyard  ;  he  desires  to  corre¬ 
spond  with  gentlemen.' intcrested'in  the  manufacinre  of  na¬ 
tive  wines,  wishing  to  form  a  Company  or  co-partnersliip  for 
the  profitable  and  permanent  business  of  wine  growing  on 
an  extensive  scale.  Address  A.  B.,  Lock  Box  No.  04, 'Nor¬ 
folk,  Va.  Satisfactory  New  York  references  will  be  siven. 


FHIIgE  BASKETS. 

BEECHER’S  PATENT  May  31st,  I8C4. 

At  the  .great  Strawberry  Show  of  the  American  Institute 
Horticultural  Society  heUl  June  loth  and  14th.  18G5,  the  pre¬ 
mium  for  the  Best  Basket  for  marketing  berries  was 
awarded  to  the  celebrated  V<*iaeer  PsTiit  Basket. 

To  those  w’lioliave  used  our  Basket  it  needs  no  recommen¬ 
dation.  But  to  all  in  W’ant  of  a  durable,  reliable,  and  stvlish 
article,  w'e  otter  the  above  with  tlie  assurance  that  it  will 
realize  their  bCvSt  and  fnliest  expectations. 

For  Circulars,  with  price,  cut,  and  description  of  Basnet, 
Address  A.  BKFCHEli  &  SONS,  AVestville.  Ci'nu. 

Baskets  and  Crates  for  sale  by  W,  H.  CAUFENTEU. 
90  Vesey-st.,  New-Y’ork. 


MOW  TO  GROW  PEARS.  “See  Gardener’s 

Montlily  for  Juno.  Price  20  cts.  23  N.  6th-8t.,  Pbilad'a. 


230 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Jn,T, 


IONA  AND  ISRAELLA, 

With  a.11  otiicr  valualjlt:  hardy  kinds,  in¬ 
cluding  large  stocks  of  l>eta  ware  anti  Diana. 

Tlie  Iona  anil  Israella  whetever  known  are  artmittcd 
to  1)C  the  best  hardy  prapes  in  cn'.nvauon. 

My  establishment  has  heretofore  been  very  extensive,  lint 
this  se.asoii,  for  the  purpose  of  producing  plants  of  these  new 
varieties  of  greatest  possible  excellence  in  snOicient  number 
to  satisfy  the  Increasing  demand.  It  has  been  very  greatly 
eiilarged,  and  nothing  has  been  o'raitted  which  my  experi¬ 
ence  and  knowledge  have  suggested  for  enabling  me  to  se¬ 
cure  a  l.arge  supply  of  plants  that  will  produce  the  best  re¬ 
sults  as  to  hardy  and  vigorous  productiveness  in  Garden  and 
Vineyard,  for  table  use  and  for  wine. 

It  is  of  great  Importance  for  the  hardy  and  enduring  vigor 
of  vines,  and  for  early  bearing  and  continued  productive¬ 
ness.  that  the  plant  should  not  only  be  propagated  In  the 
best  manner,  but  from  tlie  best  wood  from  mature  stock. 
In  tills  respect  I  may  claim  a  great  advantage  for  this  sea¬ 
son's  stock  of  Iou:i  and  Israella,  plants  which  have 
been  produced  with  the  greatest  care  from  wood  grown  for 
that  special  purpose,  and  such  as  no  others  can  command. 

To  meet  the  wants  of  the  present  time  in  regard  to  the 
vine  I  have  prepared  the  foilowing  pubilcatlons 

First.— Descriptive  Catalogue,  a  large  pam¬ 
phlet  of  Thirty-two  pages,  the  chief  object  of  which  is  to  de¬ 
scribe  accurately  all  of  the  native  vines  that  are  worthy  of 
attention,  and  to  exhibit  their  relative  importance  and  value, 
and  to  state  the  conditions  of  success  in  grape-culture  in 
garden  and  vineyard,  for  fruit,  for  the  table,  and  for  wine, 
with  some  acconnt  of  •‘reallVine"  and  wine-making.  It 
contains  more  than  Fifty  engravings,  showing  many  of  the 
best  plans  for  training  on  buildings,  and  in  garden  and 
vineyard. 

Sccoiul— Illustrated  Catalogue,  which  contains 
an  account  of  the  characteristics  .and  qualities  of  the  leading 
kinds  of  native  grapes,  but  la  chiefly  designed  to  be  a  thor¬ 
ough  practical  treatise  on  tiie  management  of  the  vine  from 
the  preparation  of  the  soil  to  the  gathering  of  the  fbuit.  It 
contains  more  than  Eighty  engravings,  chiefly  drawn  from 
actual  vines,  and  is  the  result  of  the  experience  of  many 
years  earnestly  devoted  to  the  management  of  vines,  and  ol 
very  extended  careful  observation. 

Tliird. — flianiial  of  tUe  Vine— The  two  foregoing 
are  bound  together  In  flexible  covers,  and  in  tldsform  called 
"Manual  of  the  Vine,"  and  it  Chaims  to  he  the  most  thorough 
and  comprehensive  treatise  on  the  subject  in  the  language. 

Fourth— For  full  tables  of  contents  of  the  foregoing. 
Bee  pamphlet  of  Twenty-four  pages,  entitled  “  Grape 
Vines  with  some  Account  of  the  Four  best 
Hardy  kinds,  with  Description  of  the  stock 
of  Vines  for  Sale  at  Iona  Island,  with  Price 
Lists  of  Vines  single  and  per  Hundred.” 

Fiftli.— Propositions  for  the  formation  of  Clubs.  This 
Bhows  the  best  and  cheapest  method  of  obtaining  vines  and 
Is  that  by  which  my  Immense  stock  have  been  chiefly  sold 
the  past  two  years,  with  general  high  satisfaction. 

Price  Lists  and  Pamplet  sent  for  two  cent  stamp. 

Descriptive  Catalogue  for  ten  cents. 

Illustrated  Catalogue  for  Twenty-live  cents. 

manual  of  the  Vine  for  Fifty  cents. 

P.  S.— My  stock  of  two-year-old  transplanted  vines  of 
Iona  and  Allcn'’s  Hybrid,  are  worthy  of  particular  at¬ 
tention,  and  have  been  prepared  to  meet  earnest  demands 
that  have  not  heretofore  been  satisfied. 

C.  W.  GRANT, 

Iona  (near  Peeksklll), 
Westchester  Co.,  N.  T. 


DELAWARE  VINES. 
Par.soms  &  C®., 

Ofter  for  the  autumn  trade, 

I>elawar'e  <^i*ape  Vines, 

at  the  following  low  prices; 

No.  1.  $30  00  per  100.— $250  00  per  1000. 

$2,000  per  10,000. 

No.  2.  $20  00  per  100.— -$1.50  00  per  1000. 

$1200  per  10,000. 

No.  3.  $12  00  per  100.— $100  00  per  1000. 

$750  per  10,000. 

These  vines  are  grown  from  single  eyes  of  well-matured 
wood.— Alter  many  years’  experience  In  growing  vines,  we 
have  for  three  years  past  discarded  the  pot  cultnre,  because 
it  Induces  a  cramped  condition  of  the  roots,  from  wliicli  they 
with  difliculty  recover. 

Our  vines  are  therefore  grown  in  broad  borders,  where 
having  perfect  freedom,  they  make  substantial  woody  roots, 
full  of  fibre  eyes. 

The  reports  returned  to  us  of  the  rapid  and  luxuriant 
growtli  of  those  we  liave  furnished  in  past  years,  enables  us 
to  recommend  these  with  entire  confidence. 

For  three  years  our  stock  has  been  exhausted  in  the  au¬ 
tumn  and  subsequent  applicants  liave  been  disappointed. 

Those  therefore  who  wish  them  should  order  early. 

IOPSA  VIME§, 

No.  1.  |;2.00  each  ;  ?18.n0  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  e.ach  ;  $12.00  per  doz.:  $80  per  100. 

CmCOMP  TIMES, 

From  single  eyes,  one  year  old. 

$12  00  per  100  ;  $80  00  per  1000  ; 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of 

Ailironilac,  Creveling,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Ives’ 
Madeira,  Diana,  Israella,  Hartford  Prolific, 
Lydia,  Rebecca,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  and  the  other 
popular  sorts,  all  at  low  prices. 

We  commend  our  vines  to  dealers,  as  particularly  adapted 
to  their  needs,  and  have  so  arranged  the  rates  that  tlie  difl'er- 
ence  in  the  prices  of  different  quantities  will  afford  them  a 
good  profit. 

Address 

PAKSOMS  &  CO., 

Flusliingj,  E.  I. 

We  Have  in  course  of  Propagation 

VINES. 

25,000  Delaware,  8,000  Hartford  Prolific, 

5,000  Koqeks’  Hybrids,  3,000  Diana, 

3,000  Iona,  2,000  Adirondac, 

2,000  Allen’s  Hybrid,  1,000  Israella, 

and  numerous  otlier  valnahle  varieties,  both  old  and  new. 
We  thank  our  customers  for  the  liberal  patronage  they  have 
bestowed,  and  assure  tliem  and  all  interested  in  vine  and 
grape  culture  that  no  care  or  expense  will  be  spared  tlie 
present  season  to  bring  onr  vines  to  the  Higdest  STAND.\nD. 

<3ur  Prices  will  merit  tlie  attention  of  Dealers  and 
Planters.  Responsible  Agents  are  wanted  in  every 
town  to  form  clubs,  or  to  spend  the  season  in  canvassing. 
Large  commission  will  be  given  to  sncli  as  can  furnish  relia¬ 
ble  references ;  none  otliers  need  apply. 

Address  with  Stamp,  WM.  PERKY  &  SON, 

Bridgeport,  Conn. 


Agricsalt  aa  a*Is4  a*a wlbera*y . 

At  the  two  great  Exliibitions  of  Strawberries,  held  in  tills 
City  on  the  8th  and  14th  of  June,  the  Great  Agriculturist 
proved  to  be  the  Prize  berry  of  America.  The  following  are 
the  awards  made  by  a  large  Committee  of  practical  fruit 
growers:  For  the  best  Strawberry  known,  new  or  old,  first 
prize  awarded  to  the  Great  Agriculturist.  For  the  three 
heaviest  berries,  first  prize  to  the  Great  Agriculturist.  For 
the  best  market  berry,  first  prize  to  the  Great  Agriculturist. 
This  variety  is  now  put  at  tlie  head  of  the  list  for  all  pur¬ 
poses  by  a  Committee  of  practical  fruit  growers.  My  vines 
have  produced  this  season  an  enormous  crop,  the  berries 
even  larger  tlian  last  year.  1  liave  made  extensive  prepara¬ 
tions  to  grow  plants  so  that  ail  applicants  may  be  supplied 
with  tlie  genuine  plants  at  a  moderate  price  as  follows;  12 
plants,  $1.00 ;  50  plants,  $3.00 ;  100  idants,  $5.00  ;  1000  plants, 
$25.00  ;  10,000  plants,  $200.00. 

All  plants  delivered  in  rotation  as  ordered;  no  less  than 
one  dozen  sold.  AH  orders  addressed  to 

WM.  S.  CARPENTER, 

156  Reade-street,  New  York. 


New  Bwarf  Celery, 

strong  Plants  of  this  superb  variety  will  be  ready  from 
15th  June  to  15th  July. 

Price  $1  per  100:  $7.50  per  1,000;  $50  per  10.000,  carefully 
packed  to  slilp  to  any  part  of  tlie  United  States.  Plain  print, 
ed  directions  for  tlie  culture  and  winter  preservation  of 
Celery  accoinpanyiiig  each  package,  instructive  alike  to  the 
Amateur  or  Gardener,  containing  as  it  does  our  experience 
of  18  years  as  Market  Gardeners. 

HENDERSON  &  FLEMING,  67  Nassau  Bt.,  New  York. 


Sccds  ssiiSabie  to  the 

PKESE.N’S’  MONTH. 

TURNIP  SEED. 

.5.  M,  TSiBItillJIIN  Co., 
No.  15  John -street,  NeiY-York, 


Offer  tliclr  I'ure  and  Selected  Stock  of  Turnip  Sccil 
by  mail,  postage  pre-pald.  at  the  following  rates  ; 


Early  White  Dutch,... 

. per  07... 

10  cts.;  per  lb.. 

$1 

Gkrm.a.s  Tkltow . 

20  “ 

2 

Red  Top  Strap  I.eaf.  . 

*• 

10  “ 

1 

English  White  Globe.. 

. 

10  ’• 

75c. 

“  Norfolk....  ■’ 

10  “ 

75c. 

Long  White  French,... 

. 

10 

1 

“  “  T-ankard  . 

. 

10  “ 

1 

Yellow  Stone  . 

10  “ 

1 

Golden  I!all.  extra  fine, 

. 

10  “ 

1 

Yellow  Aberdeen . 

. 

10  “ 

1 

Yellow  Finland . 

. 

20  •• 

1  50 

Dale’s  Hybrid  . 

.  “ 

10  " 

75c. 

Improved  Ruta-Baqa... 

.  “ 

10  •* 

1 

Skirving’s  do  ... 

10  “ 

1 

Laing’s  do  . . . . 

10  “ 

1 

PKici-: 

1  lASTT 

of  Ihc  Above,  for  Dealers,  Jiisl  published. 


Also 


Corn  Salad, . 

.per  oz. 

15 

cts., 

per  ill. 

$2 

00 

Pepper  Grass, . 

“ 

10 

“ 

75c. 

White  Splned  Cucumber, . 

*• 

15 

“ 

1 

50 

Long  Green  do  .... 

•• 

20 

'* 

‘2 

50 

Green  Curled  Endive . 

“ 

40 

4 

00 

Scotch  Kale . 

•* 

30 

** 

“ 

2 

50 

Kohlrabi  (fine  Vienna) . 

“ 

40 

" 

“ 

5 

00 

White  Cabbage  Lettuce  . . . . 

40 

•• 

i 

00 

Nasturtium, .  . 

•* 

40 

4 

00 

Early  Tom  Thumb  Peas,  per 

quart. 

SOC. 

Scarlet  Turnip  Itadlsh, . 

.per  07. 

,  15 

Cts., 

per  ill. 

$1 

50 

Yellow  Summer  do  . 

*• 

15 

•* 

*• 

1 

50 

Black  Spanish  do  . . 

15 

“ 

“ 

1 

50 

Scarlet  Clitnese  Winter  do  .. 

** 

so 

•• 

“ 

4 

00 

Round  Spinach . 

10 

7.5c. 

Prickly  do  . . . . . . 

•• 

10 

** 

•* 

75c, 

J.  JL  THORBURN  &  CO., 

15  Jolin-st.,  New-York. 

ImpBFtaBit  to  FstFBiieFs 

©EIIIIa  SEIaECT  wheat. 

READ  TIIE  FOLLOWING  CERTIFICATE. 

“  The  undersigned,  farmers  of  DcKalh  Co.,  Ind.,  after  a  full 
and  satisfactory  trial  of  DEIIIL  SELECT  5VIIK.'5T,  certify 
tliat  it  is  a  oeautifnl  WHITE  WHEAT,  ripening 
fully  ns  early  as  tlic  Mediterranean  or  otlier  Red  wheat, 
equally  liartly,  witiistands  the  ravages  of  all  insects  quite  as 
well,  and  yields  al  least  one  tliird  more  to  tlie  acre.  It  is  a 
shiootli  wheat,  tiie  straw  short  and  stiff,  standing  up  reniark- 
ablv  well,  and  is  an  entirely  distinct  variety  from  any  otlier 
with  wliicli  we  liave  ever  met :  and  by  far  the  best  and  most 
profitable  to  raise 

Geo.  Egnew,  Jerkmiab  Lewis. 

Jno.  McCurdy,  Aiiraiiam  Ookee, 

Noah  SnowALTER,  and  otliers. 

For  sale  in  sacks  of  2  bushels  cacli,  or  in  liarrels,  by 

A.  M.  HALSTED.  67  Pearl  st..  New  York. 

F.  BiSSEL.  Toledo,  Oliio, 
and  by  tlie  subscribers, 

T.  J.  &  J.  T.  SHELDON,  Cleveland,  Ohio. 


LEINK  &  CO., 

saBiMSsoi.iyr  MOJASSBcgaBES, 

Toledo,  O. 

Ail  kinds  of  Frtiit  and  Ornamontal  Tides,  Evergreeni, 
Slirabs,  Roses,  &c, 

CHAFE  VINES 

at  wlioles.ale  and  retail. 

©ENEIIAE 

PiiFclaasIsig’  Ag-esscy. 

The  undersigned  will  Pnrcluise  to  Order,  on  favorable 
terms,  and  at  a  n.oderate  coinniission,  an}"  articles  of  neces¬ 
sity  or  luxury,  of  small  or  lurjre  value,  such  as  Supplies  for 
Families,  Goods  for  Merchants,  Farmers.  Mechanics.  &c. 
Money  sent  by  mail  or  olherwise,  will  be  immediately  ac¬ 
knowledged,  and  jroods  promptly  forwarded  as  directed. 
Letters  of  Inquiry  will  receive  immediate  attention, 

S,  CONOVER,  Jr.,  Ifil)  Fulton-sl.,  Kew-York, 
Refers  by  permission  to  Opposite  St.  Paul’s  Church. 
Wm.  E.  Dodge,  Jr.,  Esq.;  A.  D.  liandoiph.  Esq. 


SWIFT  &  DEZENDORF, 

Produce  Commission  Merchants,  No.  4  Broadway,  New-Tork. 
RBFKIt.  BY  PEUMrsaiON,  TO 

H.  D.  Walbrldge  Co.,  N.  Y.i  King  Brothers,  Toledo,  Ohio. 
Bliven,  Melid  &  Co.,  “  Kraus  &  Sinitli,  **  ‘ 

E.  Bliss,  Esq.,  “  V.  II.  Ketcham.  Esq.,  ** 

John  A.  Gilbert,  Esq.  **  '  G.  P.  Smith,  Esq„Cleverd 

W.  G.  Hibbard,  Esq.,  Chicago,  Illinois. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICUETURIST. 


231 


S.  B.  CONOVER, 

Coaiaiiiis§i«>M 

260,  261  &  262  West  Washington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FDLTON-ST. 

P.irtlcular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit’ and 
other  Farm  Prodime.  ... 

Uefors  to  the  Editor  of  the  American  Aericulturist. 


A.  M.  HALS'l'ED, 

67  Poarl-st.,  New- Vos-U, 

Produce  Coaaistiissjon 

FOR  TUK  SALK  OP 


a  s 

H  “  '  -lT- 

g  H  a  »  ^  2 

H  H  ss  «  a  s 

a  S  <  ^  3 

a  u  s  pu  a 


-  a 

M  A 


Vi 

0  ^  ^ 


>  H  a 

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,  u 

pa  S 
K  S  r 

S  •!<  U 

S  0  ^ 


KEFERENCES.— Benj.  Lodcr.  Est]..  N.  V.,  Ex-Pres’t.  Erie 
R.  K..  Fred.  ISisaell.  Est)..  Toledo.  O..  Craffin  &  Co.,  N.  T 
and  Chlcaso,  Ill..  Geo.  M.  Toild,  Hnrlinston.  Iowa. 

Send  for  Wkkkly  Prick  Cuurk.vt.  Marking  Xdate  and 
Circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

Farmers'  Cousigniheius  receive  special  attention. 


T 


HE  BEST  FEKTJEIZEie  FOB 


BFCK.WHEAT,  WHE.-IT,  RYE,  TEU- 
NBPS,  Ate.,  is 

Brace’s  Cosicealratcd  Manure. 

So  sa.v  tliose  wdio  have  tested  it. 

Send  for  Cireniar. 

GlUFFING  CllOTHEP.  &  CO..  SOLK  Agkjtts, 
60  Coiirtlandt-st.,  New  York. 


Paeilic  Gtiamo. 

•  A  real  gnano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  percent 
of  Phosiili'atc  of  Lime  ;  to  wliicli  lias  lieen  added  by  a  cliem- 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  ol  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
tliat  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  eipial,  if  not  superior,  to 
anyotlier  fertilizer.  Price  $S0  per  net  ton.  A  liheral  dis- 
coiint  to  tlie  Trade.  ,, 

Pamplilets  witii  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  .lackson.  Mass. 
State  Assayer,  and  Dr.  Lieliig,  of  Ualtimore,  and  testimonials 
from  sc.ientilic  agricuUnrists,  sliowing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  O.  BARER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents, 

131  Pearl-st.,  New-\ork 

HE  SETTLERS’  GUIDE  IN  THE  UNITED 

States  and  British  America.  Being  a  synoptical  review 
of  the  Soil,  Climate  and  Productions,  with  the  Minerals, 
Manufactures.  &c.,  of  each  State,  carefully  arranged  from 
Mannfactnring  reports.  State  ilocnments  and  standard  works, 
as  well  as  from  personal  ohservaliou.  Illnslrated  by  Map  of 
the  United  Stales  and  Territories,  and  41  engravings.  Price 
posid'ald,  $1.50.  Agents  wanted.  DAVIES  &  KENT, 

‘  ‘  1S3  William-st.,  N.  T. 

Xew  Comic  Songs,  Piano  Accomiianiment. 

I’VE  STRUCK  ILE.  With  an  illustrated  title,  showing 
how  it  was  done.  Wilder.  30.  COL^SIN  JEDEDIAII. 
Tliompson,  30.  ^ 

"  ().  .lacoh.  get  the  cows  horn#  and  put  them  in  the  pen. 
For  the  cousins  are  a  coming  to  see  ns  all  again. 

The  dowdy’s  in  ilie  pan  and  the  Turkey's  on  the  fire. 
And  we  all  must  get  ready  for  Cousin  .Jedediah.” 

OUR  GRAN' DFATHEirS  DAYS.  Tony  Pastor.  30. 

TONYPASTDR'S  MEDLEY.30.  POMBEY .TONES.  Song 
and  Dance.  Wilder.  *30.  THE  JOLLY  OLD  PEDAGOGUE. 
Bruce  30  LUDDY  FUDDY.  The  Cracksman’s  Song  in 
••  Rosedale,”  30.  DEU  DEUTSCHMAN’S  PHILOSOPHY. 
Schmidt.  30. 

“  I’ve  a  tollar  vot  1  spend. 

But  I’ve  not’ng  for  to  lend.” 

I’D  CHOOSE  TO  BE  A  15.\BY.  Fred  Buckley,  30.  Sent 
postpaid  on  receipt  of  price.  OLIVER  Dli'SON  &  GO.. 
Publishers,  377  Waslilngton  street,  Boston. 


Tlie  Ilersilcl  ®f  Hefaltli 

AND 

Jotiraaa.1  of  Fhystcal  Ciiltsirc, 

for  June.  Is  mil  ot  the  best  matter  for  all  invalids,  and  for 
all  wlio  would  preserve  tlieir  liealtb.  Every  person  should 
see  it  15  cents  a  nnmher  ;  $1.50  a  year.  A  new  volume  in 
July  "'5000  copies  of  tlie  Cook  Book  already  sold.  Dr.  Hall 
says  its  mode  of  cooking  would  add  10  years  to  tlie  average 
of  human  life.  Price  30  cents.  If  you  are  sick  and  would  .get 
well  learn  how  to  live  by  reading  these  books  and  let  nos¬ 
trums  alone.  Address  MILLER,  WOOD  &  DU,, 

15  Laiglit-street,  New  \  ork. 

Mew  and  EXQuasiTE  raussc,  just 

ISSUED.-TliE  NEW  NATIONAL  JUBILEE 
PRIZE  SONG— 

“  Sliout  tbe  good  time  has  come, 

Onr  Nation  is  Free; 

Eclio  wide  the  Cliorns, 

Proclaim  the  Jubilee.” 

THE  WHIP-POOR-WILL  SONG,  with  Echo,  by  H.  Jlil- 
lard  exQuisitelv  touching,  both  In  words  and  melody.  30  cts. 
L(We  ON  THE  BUAlN,  by  Mrs.  Parkluirst,  30  cents. 
KISS  ME  WHILE  I'.M  SLEEPING,  by  Konrad  Tiener. 
Beantifnl  and  artistic.  30  cents.  . 

EVERYBODY'S  LOVE  SONG -Love  in  all  its  phases.  SOcts. 

W.  JENNINGS  DEMUREST,  39  Beekiiian-st. 
Sold  by  all  music  dealers,  or  mailed  free ;  or  four  for  $1. 

BEMOREST8  MONTHLY  MAGAZINE.— JU- 

tailee  Number  for  July— Containing  The  Jubilee  Nation¬ 
al  Prize  Song,  witli  Splendid  Poems.  Illustrated— Entertain- 
in"'  Stories— Houseliold  Mattel’s— Summer  Fashions  and 
Fashion  Pla  es— Full  Size  Patterns  and  other  novelties.  Do 
not  fall  to  see  tlie  elegant  and  valuable  July  number,  now 
ready.  Yearly  $3,  witli  a  valuable  premium.  Mailed  free 
on  receipt  of  price,  25  cents, 

^  W.  JENNINGS  DEMUREST. 

No.  89  Beekman-st.,  N.  Y. 


JEFF  OAM! 


“Now  I  Lay  Me  Down  to  Sleep.” 
THIS  BEAUTIFUL  PICTURE, 

Painted  by  HOLFELD, 

AND  ENGRAVED  BY 

A.  B.  WALTER. 

TS  NOW  READY  FOR  SUBSCRIBERS. 

SOLI  mi\  BY  SlIBSCBIPTfOY. 

[From  Rev.  W.  A.  Stearns,  President  Amberst  College.] 

“I  hope  it  may  Iiave  an  extensive  circulation,  and  bring 
blessings  to  many  a  cliristian  home.” 

[From  Rev.  Jolin  Todd.  D.  D..  Pittsfield,  Mass.l 

“  To  see  it  is  to  admire,  and  to  admire  is  to  love  it.” 

[From  Rev.  S.  D.  Phelps,  D.  D.,  New  Haven,  Conn.] 

“It  is  an  admirable  and  charming  picture,  and  must  carry 
a  sacred  and  sunny  influence  into  every  room  wliose  wall  it 
may  adorn.” 

[From  Rev.  I.  C.  Pershing,  Prest.  Pittsburg  Female  College.! 

“  Such  works  of  art  link  tlie  beautiful  and  the  good,  and 
bring  Home  and  Heaven  near  to  each  other.” 

[From  Rev.  Saranel  Wolcott,  D.  D.,  Cleveland,  Ohio.] 

“  In  act.  attitude  and  expression  It  is  one  of  the  loveliest 
figures  on  which  tlie  eye  can  rest.  It  is  a  gem.” 

Agents  Wanted  in  Every  Town  and  County. 

VV.  J.  I201.1.AND,  Publisher, 

S|)i'in»:(ield,  Mass. 

^RLESQUE 

LIFE  OF 

The  most  gloriously  funny  thins:,  jnst  as  full  of  humor  as 
it  can  he.  with  numerous  comic  illustrations,  in  July  No. 
of  MEIiRYMAIV’S  A  splendid  number 

with  improvements  and  new  features.  Pri*<;  Puzzle 
every  month  with  GreeiibacU  Pri7.e8.  Sold  by  newsmen 
or  sent  post-paid  for  15  cents,  3  specimens  30  cents.  No 
free  conies.  J.  C.  HANKY  &  CO.,  109  Nass:iu  st.,  New  Vorlc. 

C^“  will  be  sent  <»  months  (July  to  Dec.,  inclusive)  for 
GO  cents,  copies  Si*  Club  of  4  and  one  free  to  getter  up, 
SjJ.  I’egular  rates  Si*J35  a  year.  Subscribe  now. 

Editors  inserting  the  above  (displayed  the  same)  as  often 
as  they  see  fit  will  receive  one  copy  six  months  free. 

Opinions  of  f lie  Pre«s.— “  MKURYM.\y*s  Moxtiilt 
is  the  merriest  periodical  afloat.  Aboundinir  in  witticisms 
and  striking  caricatures,  it  is  a  jolly  companion  at  all  times. 
We  commend  it  to  the  lovers  of  i\in."—Ob8ervei’andjRec07'‘d- 
e}\  Ivising  Sun,  Indiana. 

“It  is  full  of  fun  and  merriment.  *  *  Send  for  it  if 
you  are  troubled  with  the  blues,  or  afraid  ot  tliera.’’— Can- 
field,  Ohio,  Weeklf/  Herald. 

“  Mkrrtmax’s  Monthly  for  April  is,  as  usual,  a  laughter- 
provoking,  comic  visitor.—*  Laugh  and  be  fat,’  is  an  old  max¬ 
im,  and  we  would  ‘prescribe’  to  lank,  thin  specimens  of  hu¬ 
manity  the  trial  of  a  few  numbers  of  Merryman."— Hudson, 
Michigan,  Hei'ald. 

JULY  NUMBER  READY  AT  ALL  NEWS  AGENTS. 

NEW  VOL.!  LOOK  AT  JULY  NO.!— 

Portraits  of  President  .Johnson — two  views;  Secre¬ 
tary  Harlan;  Queen  Victoria ;  tlie  Empress  Eugenie ;  tlie 
Emperor  Alexander;  Julius  Ciesar,  witli  Sketches  of  Char¬ 
acter;  the  Conspirators,  and  How  they  Look;  the  Physiog¬ 
nomy  of  Cl.asses;  Love  and  Lovers;  Second  .Marri.ages;  Fat 
Folks  and  Lean  Folks,  and  How  to  Cure  them,  with  Illustra¬ 
tions;  The  Russian,  with  portraits;  Enlarging  the  Lungs; 
Immortality  of  Mind;  A  Wonderful  Prediction  Fulfilled; 
Hymeneal  Poetry;  Maiden’s  Eyes;  An  Appeal  from  tlie 
South;  Art  and  Artists;  Practical  Preaching;  Work-Day 
Religion ;  A  Hint  to  Maiden  Ladies ;  Dictionary  of  Phrenol¬ 
ogy  and  Physiognomy,  with  engravings;  Hats— a  New  No¬ 
tion,  illustrated;  Onr  Country;  "Able-bodied  Men;”  Early 
Patriots  of  America,  illustrated;  Onr  Finances;  The  Atlan¬ 
tic  Cable,  and  Americans  in  England;  with  much  more  in 
JULY  DOUBLE  NO.  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL. 
Beat  No.  ever  issued.  Begins  a  new  Vol.  Only  20  cents,  by 
return  post,  or  a  year  for  $2.  Subscribe  now.  Address 

FOWLER  &  WELLS,  3S9  Broadway,  New  York. 


gcJiool  SBiperiBiteaiclcnits 
and  Teachers  will  be  interested  in  tlie  series  of 
small,  cheap,  but  comprehensive  Le.'son  Books,  on  a 
new  plan,  entitled  “  Lessons  for  Every  Sunday  in  the 
Year.”  They  are  arranged  in  series  of  52  lessons  each, 
with  many  notes,  references,  etc.  Tliese  are  selected 
so  that  with  the  “  Connecting  History”  they  give  a  com- 
prenensive  and  connected  view  of  the  whole  Bible. 
No.  1  embraces  the  period  from  the  Birth  of  Christ  to 
the  end  of  Acts.  No.  2  embraces  the  whole  New  Testa¬ 
ment  in  its  connecting  history,  but  is  mairiiy  upon  the 
second  part  of  the  book.  No.  3  extends  from  .Adam  to 
Elijah  ;  and  No,  4  (not  yet  ready)  will  extend  from 
Elijah  to  Christ.  They  are  approved  and  used  by  all  de¬ 
nominations  ;  and  are  adapted  to  scholars  of  all  ages, 
able  to  read  the  Bible.  Nos.  1,2,  and  3,  are  now 
ready.  As  an  evidence  of  their  value,  it  may  be  stated 
that  of  No.  I,  the  first  issued,  about  150,000  copies 
have  already  been  called  for.  Price  of  each  series.  15 
cents  e.ach  ;  $1  50  per  dozen  ;  $12  per  100.  If  to  go  by 
mail,  4  cents  each  extra  for  postage;  or,  if  in  packages  of 
ten  or  more  3  cents  each.  As  specimens.  Nos.  I,  2,  and  3 
will  be  sent  post-paid  for  50  cents.  Address  Publisher  of 
American  Agriculturist,  New  York. 


BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 

[Any  of  tlift  following  books  c;vn  be  ol)tainc<l  at  tlie  Of* 
lice  of  Die  Atiricttllurist  at  tlio  prices  namufl,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  Die  price.  These 
priecs  arc  positively  good  only  to  August  Ist.] 

Allen’s  (L.  F.)  Uural  Architecture . . 

Allen’s  (K.  L.)  American  Farm  Hook . 

Allen’s  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals  ...  . 

American  llird  Fancier . . 

American  Hose  (hiliurist . 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants . 

Art  of  Saw  Filing  ...(Holly) . .  . 

P>arry’s  Fruit  Garden  .  .  , . 


Bement’s  I\>nlterer*s  C'ompanion . 

Bement’s  Kabbir  Fancier . 

Blake’s  Farmer’s  Kneyclopedia . 

Boussingault’s  Kural  Kconomy . 

Bridjrcman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . 

Briilgeman’s  Youni  Gardener's  Assistant  .  .. 
Bridgeman’s  Kircheii  Garden  Instructor.  .  ., 

Bridgeman’s  Florist’s  Guiile  . . . 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Houses  (Knglish  and  German 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers . . 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures . 

Buist’s  Flower  garden  Directory . 

Buist’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener . . 

Burr’s  Vegetables  ot  America .  .. 

Carpenters  and  Joinei-s’  Hand  Book  (Holly). 

Cliorlton’s  Grape-Grower’s  Guide .  . 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener . . 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book . 

Cole’s  Veterinarian . 

Colman’s  Agrienlture . 

Copeland’s  (''ountry  Life . .  ..  . 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper  . 

Gorton  Planters’  ^lanual  (Turner) . 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor . 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.>  American  Cattle  Doctor. . . , 

Dana’s  Miiek  Manual  . 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) . 


Kastwood  on  Cranberry . .'.*.  *.*..* 

Klliott’s  Western  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide . !!!!!! 

Kmplovmept  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny!.*.'!;]” 
Fessen'den’s  Complete  Farnier  and  Gardener.  .!!!! 

Flax  (hiUnre . (Heady  next  month) . * 

Freneh's  Farm  Drainage  . . ]] 

Field’s  d'homas  W.)  Pear  Culture . !!! 

Fish  Culture . ”! 

Flint  ((diaries  L.)  on  Grasses.... . 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming . . . 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist . 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist . . 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding .  !!*] 

(trav’sMaimal  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol..,. 

Grav’s  How  Plants  Grow . ....! 

(juenon  on  .Milch  Cows . ! 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery . 

Haraszlhv  Grape  Culture,  &c.  .  .  . 

Harris'  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain . ! 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plate? 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers . 

ilints  to  Uitlemcn.  bv  Cleveland . 

Hop  Culture . Hloady)  . 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One . 

jaques’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees . 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,  &c . . 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry . . 

Johnston’s  PJements  of  Agricultural  Chemi^itry . 

Keiv.p’s  Landscape  Gardening .  . 

Langsiroth  on  the  Honey  Bee . . 

Loudon’s  (Downing's)  I.adies’ Flower  Garden  ...  . 

Leui’har’s  Howto  Build  Hot-houses . 

T.ieblg’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry . 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agrienlture . ' . 

Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses . 

Manual  of  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Fli 

^iavhew’s  Illiistrated  Horse  Doctor  . 

^iavilew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management  , .  . 

^ic^tahon’s  American  CJardener  .  . 

Miles  on  the  Horse's  foot . 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd . 

.My  Farm  of  Kdgewood . 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Hecord . 

Neill’s  Practical  (iardener _ (Pardee) . . 

Norton’s  Scientitlc  Agriculture . 

Olcott’s  Sorglio  and  imphee . . 

Onion  Culture  . 

our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  GOc . . (paji 

Pardee  on  Strawlierry  Culture . . 

Parsons  on  the  Hose  —  .... 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves . . 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer..., 


Qninbv’s  Mvsteries  of  Bee  keeping  .  . . 

Uabbit  P'an’cier . 

Handall’s  Sheep  Husbandry .  . 

P^andall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry . 

Hand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden . 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses . 

Ilural  Affairs _ (bound). .. .3  Vols. , .  each . .  .. 

Saxton’s  Farmers'  Library.. set  of 3  Vols  morocco, 
do  do  do  do  3  Vols.. cloth  .. 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book . 

Shcplierd’s  own  Book . 

Skillful  Housewife  . 

Smith’s  I.andscape  Gardening  . . 

Spencer’s  Kdneation  of  Children . . 

Stewart's  (John »  Stable  Book . . 

Ten  Acres  Enough . 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture . 

Thomas’  Fruit  Culturist  . 

Thompson’s  Food  of  Animals . 

Tobacco  Culture  . . . 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual . 

Tucker’s  Hegister  Mural  Affairs . . 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages . 

Walden's  Complete  Soil  Culture. . 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens . 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture .  , 

Watson’s  American  Home  (Jarden . 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) . 

Wlieat  Plant  (John  Klinpart’s) . 

W’^oodward’s  Country  Homes. .  , . 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse . 

Youatt  and  ^lart1n  on  Cattle . 

Youatt  on  the  Hog . . 

Youatt  on  Sheep . 

Youmans’  Household  Science . 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry....,  . . 


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232 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


Agriculturist  Strawberry  Successful- 
Plants  as  Premiums. 


The  past  inonlh  has  definitely  established  the  great 
value  of  this  variety.  We  wish  every  reader  could  have 
looked  upon  the  plot  on  the  Publisher’s  grounds-the 
slools  in  regular  order,  each  almost  large  enough  to  fill 
from  a  peck  to  bushel  measure,  with  hardly  a  defective 
plant  in  the  whole  plot ;  though  most  of  them  were  set 
out  October  and  November,  ISfi-t  anti  not  ail  protected 
during  winter.  There  is  not  tlie  least  sign  of  diseitse  or 
worm  in  tlie  whole  plot;  and  the  usual  white  grub.  So 
ofteTi  fatal  to  this  and  other  plants,  in  all  localities,  seems 
to  have  let  the'C  entirely  alone.  Tlie  fruit  was  large, 
beautiful,  and  of  excellent  quality  ;  and  though  the  plants 
were  fixed  to  the  utmost  in  producing  runners,  wliich 
were  lifted  until  April  17th,  tlie  fruit  was  still  so  abun¬ 
dant,  that  home  dealers  readily  offered  and  paid  $:;00  for 
what  they  could  themselves  pick  on  a  trifle  over  half  an 
acre  of  them,  w  ith  no  trouble  or  exiiense  to  the  proprietor. 
As  all  the  plants  possible  were  desired,  no  effort  was 
made  to  produce  extraordinary  specimens,  yet  under  the 
hard  treatment  anove  described,  large  numbers  of  berries 
were  picked,  ranging  only  ’20  to  SO  in  the  pound;  and 
some  were  larger  still,  while  the  fruit  was  solid  and 
crimson  to  the  c,.  e.  These  facts  were  witnessed  by  many 
neig  hbors  ard  visitors.  At  the  second  exhibition,  June 
IStli,  after  the  best  fruit  was  gone,  this  variety  was  excel¬ 
led  by  the  Russell,  in  the  weight  of  three  heaviest  berries. 
We  leave  others,  less  interested,  to  speak  of  the  compa- 
ratit;„e  flavor.  We  have  no  plants  to  sell,  having  agreed 
wilti  .Air.  Knox  of  Pittsburg,  who  took  all  our  surplus 
plants  last  spring,  to  sell  none  this  year,  except  on  his 
-ccount  ;  but  from  the  inlerest  we  have  taken  in  bringing 
o,..  and  di^tribuIing  this  variety,  we  have  no  little  pride 
and  pleasure  in  the  result. 

As  announced  last  month,  (page  194)  we  reserved  the 
rivht  to  offer  plants  as  premiums  for  subscribers  ;  and  the 
generally  successful  sending  of  the  plants  by  mail  in 
wooden  boxes,  this  year,  warrants  us  in  offering  to  send 
them  thus  at  any  time  in  autumn,  at  least  prior  to  Sep- 
teu.ber  10.  We  therefore  republish  the  offerof  last  month. 

I.  _ po  any  one  who  will  now,  or  any  time  before  Au¬ 

gust  15ih,  send  us  four  subscribers,  at  the  regular  rates 
($5),  we  will  forward,  post  paid,  Ten  of  the  Agricultur¬ 
ist  Strawberry  Plants,  of  first  class,  about  Sept.  1. 

II.  — To  any  one  sending  ten  subscribers  now,  or  before 
.August  15th,  we  will  send  Twenty  Plants  as  above. 

III. — An  so  on,  for  a  larger  number  of  names  we  will 
send  at  the  rate  of  20  Plants  for  ten  subscribers. 

Ijtg”  Subscriptions  may  begin  at  the  middle  of  the  vol¬ 
ume,  July  1st,  or  date  back  to  the  beginning  of  the  vol¬ 
ume,  Jan.  1st,  and  receive  the  back  numbers,  which  are 
always  printed  as  needed  from  stereotype  plates. 

In  addition  to  the  above,  those  new  subscribers 
who  ha.e  not  before  had  plants  of  us,  may  call  fora 
plant  or  two  apiece,  if  each  one  sends  5  cents  extra  along 
witii  the  subscription,  to  cover  cost  of  postage,  box  and 
packing.  We  cannot  afford  the  time,  trouble  and  ex¬ 
pense  of  reopening  the  offer  of  plants  to  others  than  new 
names  coming  in  under  the  above  premium  proposition. 
Tiie  offer  of  free  plants  has  bee  n  open  to  all  subscribers 
for  more  than  a  year,  which  is  surely  enough. 

^  >  mm  O  tan  I 

T8»<5  A?5i*i«oilt!iira,l  iSairca,H. — A  wotfitl 
to  President  Jolinson.— We  have  at  Washington 
an  "  Agricultural  Bureau,”  supported  at  an  annual  ex¬ 
pense  to  the  country  of  nearly  Two  Hundred  Thousand 
Dollars,  including  direct  appropriations,  the  printing  of 
the  annual  reports,  etc.  It  might  be  of  great  value  to 
the  country  if  properly  managed.  There  are  some  ex¬ 
cellent  men  engaged  in  subordinate  positions,  but  w  e  say 
plainly,  that  the  pre.sent  head  of  the  Bureau  is  not  com¬ 
petent  for  his  position,  and  we  are  quite  sure  this  is  the 
general,  if  not  the  unanimous,  opiidon  of  the  more  intel¬ 
ligent  agriculturists  of  the  country  who  are  awake  to  the 
im|irovement  of  this  great  interest.  We  should  suppose 
the  Commissioner  himself  w(,uld  feel  this  .after  his  four 
years  of  office.  He  must  have  received  many  direct 
and  indirect  intimations  of  the  feelines  and  w  ishes  of  the 
public.  Owing  to  tlie  heavy  pressure  of  other  public  in¬ 
terests  upon  the  late  President,  the  people  have  hitlierto 
consented  to  hold  tlie  matter  in  abeyance,  though  consul- 
taiioiis  on  the  subject  liave  been  frequent.  There  is  far 
from  entire  ignorance  in  regard  to  the  schemes  and 
*•  Wliite  Housed  iunuences  that  have  been  brought  to 
bear  to  keep  the  Bureau  under  its  past  and  present  di¬ 
rection.  and  of  the  efforts  to  secure  the  favorable  opinion 
of  tlie  members  of  the  next  Congress.  In  behalf  of  our 
ow  n  hundreds  of  thousands  of  readers,  and  of  the  country 
at  large,  w  e  beg  President  Johnson  to  give  the  subject  his 
earliest  possible  attention,  and  place  at  the  head  of  the 


Bureau  some  man  of  broad  comprehensive  view  s  and  in¬ 
telligence,  one  able  to  grasp  the  immense  interests  in- 
involved  in  the  scope  of  the  Department,  and  lay  outand 
carry  into  execution  such  plans  as  will  promote  agricul¬ 
tural  development  and  improvement.  At  [ircsent  the  Bu¬ 
reau  falls  infinitely  below  what  it  should  and  miglit  be, 
and  there  is  no  hope  of  its  being  better,  until  under  more 
competent  direction. 


'E'Bse  '^AasBalsiig’Sosi  MosxMmeist — Es  it 
a  S^tiinbiig  ?— On  the  Mall,  west  of  the  Smithsonian 
Institute,  at  Washington,  stands  a  half  or  quarter-fin¬ 
ished  obelisk  called  “Washington  Monument.”  and 
thus  it  has  stood  for  years  past.  Large  contributions 
have  been  called  for,  to  aid  in  building  it,  from  time  to 
time,  from  Maine  to  California.  In  the  Patent  Office  is 
a  model  of  the  proposed  completed  monument,  and  at 
each  corner  of  it  is  a  glass  box  calling  for  contributions. 
While  there  at  the  Review,  we  noticed  .many  patriotic 
soldiers  putting  in  tlieir  hard  earned  currency  freely, 
and  we  learned  that  this  had  betn  done  very  largely 
during  the  recent  encampment  of  our  armies  around  the 
Capital.  These  boxes  are  emptied  every  now  and  then, 
and  we  would  like  to  know  what  is  done  with  the 
money.  We  do  not  remember  any  report  of  receipts  or 
expenditures  by  the  “Association”  for  several  years 
past,  and  hear  it  intimated  that  some  of  tli,e  manages  are 
not  the  most  loyal,  or  have  not  been.  It  may  be  all 
right ;  but  in  belialf  of  the  contributors  to  the  enterprise, 
among  whom  we  have  been  numbered,  we  call  for  full 
information.  Who  has  charge  of  tlie  money,  and  is  ev¬ 
ery  dollar  legitimately  and  properly  expended,  and  how  ? 

- - - - - t-m, - 

The  Strawberry  Show  of  1865. 

In  order  to  meet  both  extremes  of  the  Strawberry  sea¬ 
son,  as  well  as  to  give  those  who  cultivate  in  later  local¬ 
ities  an  equal  chance  with  those  who  live  on  warm  soils, 
the  show  was  continued  through  twodays,  a  week  apart. 
The  Exhibition  on  the  first  day,  June  8th,  was  very  full 
and  the  fruit  of  an  unusually  fine  quality.  Fewer  entries 
were  made  on  the  second  day,  June  15lh,  but  they  Includ¬ 
ed  some  things  not  exhibited  on  the  first  day.  Taken  as 
a  whole,  the  show  was  a  success,  and  the  crowds  of  per¬ 
sons  who  visited  it.  many  of  them  with  note-book  in 
hand,  showed  that  these  free  exhibitions  intere.st  great 
numbers  and  they  cannot  fail  to  be  very  instructive. 
The  following  are  the  entries  and  the  awards  of  prizes. 

ENTRIES  JUNE  8tU. 

Triomphe  de  Gand  ;  Crimson  Favorite  ;  Agriculturist : 
John  Cole,  Tompkinsville,  Staten  Island. 

Seedling :  Erastus  G.  Barret,  Sag  Harbor,  L.  I. 

Boston  Pine  ;  Chilian  Pyramidal :  W.  E.  Chilson, 
Passaic,  N.  J. 

Wilson,  Triomphe  de  Gand;  H.  &  C.  G.  Atwater, 
New  Haven,  Conn. 

Agriculturist ;  Boston  Pine  ;  Green  Prolific  ;  Vicorn- 
tesse  j  Triomphe  de  Gand  ;  L.  V.  Conover,  Morrisania, 

N.  Y. 

Agriculturist  (and  3  p.ants)  :  0.  Judd,  Flushing. 
Barnes’  Mammoth  (with  plant):  TenEyck  Bros.,  Mid¬ 
dletown,  N.  J. 

Seedling  (and  2  plants)  ;  Agriculturist;  Seth  Boyden, 
Newark,  N.  J. 

Wilson  ,  Triomphe  de  Gand  ;  T.  W.  Sufferns,  Sufferns, 
N.  Y. 

Gen.  Grant  (seedling  from  the  Agriculturist) ;  W.  A. 
Burgess,  Glen  Cove,  L.  I. 

Triomphe  de  Gand;  Geo.  Elvins,  Hammonton,  N.  J. 
Col.  Ellsworth  ;  Seedling;  I.  L.  Nostrand.  Brooklyn. 
Russel;  Buff;do ;  Lady  Finger;  Monitor;  Hovey  ; 
Cl  imson  Favorite ;  P’rencli’s  Seedling;  Green  Prolific; 
Triomphe  de  Gand;  Dow  ner’s  Prolific  ;  Ward’s  Favor¬ 
ite  ;  Cutter  ;  Viconitesse  ;  Deptford  Whi-te  :  E.  Williams. 
.Montclair,  N.  J 

Russell;  Heins’  Prolific:  E.  Faile,  Woodstock,  N.Y. 
Imported  German  Strawberries;  Ernst  &  Bro.,  South 
Amboy,  N.  J. 

Hautbois:  I.  E.  Chapman,  Perth  Amboy,  N.  J. 

Boston  Pine  or  Bartlett ;  Edward  Kelly,  N.  Y.  City. 
Wilson  ;  Triomphe  de  Gand  :  G.  Henry.  Hudson  N.  J 
Green  Pndific  ;  Lennig’s  White;  La  Constante;  Rus¬ 
sell  :  C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum. 

Hooker  ;  Scarlet  Magnate  ,  Wil.son  ;  Burr’s  New  Pine; 
LeBaron  ;  Frederick  William  ;  Rein  Hortense  ,  Charl¬ 
ton’s  Prolific  ,  Marguerite  :  French's  Seedling  :  Brighton 
Pine  ;  Ladies’  Pine  ;  Vicomtesse  ;  Scott’s  Seedling  ,  Cut¬ 
ter  :  Deptford  Pine;  Victory;  Mrs.  Fuller;  Austin; 
Monitor;  Albion;  Triomphe  de  Gand;  Jenny  Lind; 
Ridgewood;  Brooklyn  Scarlet;  Green  Prolific;  Belle 
Bordelaise  ;  Schiller  ;  Col.  Ellsworth  ;  Gen.  Scott ;  Iowa; 
Nicholson’s  Superb;  Gen.  McClellan;  Black  Prince; 
De  Montrieiil  ;  Lennig’s  White  ;  Bonte  de  St.  Jiilien  ; 
Scotch  Runner;  Victoria;  Emma;  Najioleon  3d;  Al¬ 
bion  :  Tlios.  Cavanagh.  Brooklyn.  N.  Y. 

Russel  ;  Wilson  ;  Eliza  (seedling);  Gen.  McClellan  ; 
Jiicuncla  ;  Triomphe  de  Gand  ;  Austin  ;  Green  Prolific; 
Boston  Pine;  McAvoy’s  Superior;  Buffalo;  La  Con- 
stanle  ;  Fillmore  ;  Cutter  ;  Green  Prolific  ;  Hovey  ; 
Hooker;  Biooklyn  Scarlet,  Virginia:  Francis  Brill, 
Newark,  N.  J. 


Aerieulturisi  ;  Union  Scarlet  ;  Mc.Avoy’s  Superioi  ; 
Green  I’loliiie  .  John  Gnne,  Union.  N.  V. 

Seriiling;  E.  11.  Bogert,  Manluisset.  L.  I. 

ENTRIES  .JUNE  fi.otSi. 

English  Seedling.  3  variedies;  R.  Wade.  Troy.  N.  Y. 
Eight  Seedlings:  W.  H.  Romeyn.  Kingston.  N.  Y. 
Frances  Emma  (needling):  II.  W.  Tihbetls,  White 
Plains,  N.  Y. 

Perry  (Seedling):  Geo,  Perry  &  Son.  Georgelovin.  Ct, 
Alpine;  llatiihois:  Thos.  Cnthbert.  Riverdale.  N.  V. 
Russell  :  Wilson;  Triomphe  de  Gan.l  ;  I. a  Con 
stante  ;  Geo.  Herbert.  Peekskill,  N.  Y. 

.'-'eedling  ( Plant) :  Wm.  TefI,  Fordham,  N.  V. 
.■Vgricultiirist ;  O.  Judil,  Flushing,  L.  I. 

Lennig’s  White:  Russell;  Fillmore:  C.  S.  Pell.  N. 
V.  Oi'iihan  Asylum. 

Russell;  Bhick  Prince:  Austin;  Triomphe  de  Gand; 
Brooklyn  .‘^eariet  ;  Ridgewood;  La  Constante;  Gen’l 
Scott:  Marguerite;  Victoria:  Culler:  Monitor;  Len- 
nig’s  White  ;  Deptford  While  ;  Belle  Bordelaise;  Hooker; 
Crimson  Favorite;  Bonte  St.  Jiilicn  :  Vicomtesse- 
Scotch  Runner;  Alpine;  Thus.  Cavan-agh.  Brookivn 
Boston  Pine  (Bartlett) :  Mr.  Siierry.  Staten  fsland. 
Downer’s  Prolific:  I.nngworlh’s  Prolific:  Union  Scar 
let.  Berry  for  name:  Jolin  Crane,  Union.  N.  Y. 

PRIZES  AWARREB. 

For  Best  Strawberry,  new  or  old  ;  to  Seth  Boyden, 
Newark.  N.  J.,  for  Agriculturist,  $5. 

For  Best  12  approved  varieties  ;  to  Francis  Brill,  New 
ark,  N.  J.  S5. 

Second  Best  do  ;  to  E.  Williams,  Montclair,  N.  J.  $3 
For  Largest  and  best'coileciion  ;  to  Thos.  Cavanagh. 
Brooklyn,  N.  Y.,  85. 

For  Best  show  of  Strawberry  plants  in  pots,  to  Thos. 
Cavanagh.  $5. 

For  Best  Market  variety.  2  quarts  (Agriculturist)  ;  tc 
Mr.  01m.  gardener  to  O.  Judd,  Flushing.  N.  Y..  S3. 

For  Heaviest  3  berries  of  any  one  variety  (Agricultur¬ 
ist,  weight  HU  ozs.)  ;  to  Seth  Boyden,  and  Geo  Herbert; 
Peekskill.  N.  Y.,  (Russell,  weight  2%  ozs.)  ;  ,?2. 

For  Best  pint  of  White  Berries  (Lennig’s  While);  to 
C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum,  S2. 

For  best  Alpines  to  Thos.  Cnthbert. Riverdale.  I..  I.  $I 
Best  New  Seedling  ;  Seth  Boyden,  Newark,  N.  J..  $5. 
For  Best  pint  of  each  of  the  following  varieties  :  Foi 
Agriculturist,  to  Seth  Boyden ;  for  Russell’s  Prolific,  to 
C.  S.  Pell;  for  Brooklyn  Scarlet,  to  Francis  Brill:  for 
Monitor,  to  E.  Williams  ;  for  Col.  Ellsworth,  to  Thos. 
Cavanagh  ;  for  Triomphe  de  Gand,  to  H.  &  C.  G.  Atwa¬ 
ter,  New-Haven,  Conn.,  and  Geo.  Herbert.  Peekskill, 
N.  Y. ;  for  Wilson,  to  Geo.  Henry,  Hudson  City,  N. 
J. ;  for  Ilovey’s  Seedling,  to  E.  Williams  :  for  Buffalo, 
to  Francis  Brill ;  for  Hooker,  to  Francis  Brill.  $1  each. 

Special  premiums  v^ere  awarded  to  Geo.  Perry  & 
Son,  Georgetown,  Conn.,  $2.  and  to  W.  II.  Romeyn, 
Kingston,  N.  Y.,  for  promising  new  Seedlings,  and  to 
Geo.  Herbert,  Peekskill,  N.  Y.,  $1,  for  fruit  of  very  fine 
La  Constante. 

*  I  ■  f  O  Wi  D  mm 

IBsacls:  Volumes  &  ]^'i»iml>evs  Sisisplaed. 

VTc  have  complete  sets  of  Vols.  10, 17.  IS,  19.  20,  21,22,  and  23, 
unbound,  and  bound  in  neat  covers  wiili  irilt  lettered  backs. 
Prices  at  the  office:  bound  ^2.00  \  7i7ihon7id  $1,50  each. 
Back  Volumes  are  sent  prepaid  by  mail,  (tbcf/  mn  7ioi 
go  7mpaid„')  if  bouud„  $2.’to  each  ;  if  7inhoni7d\  $1.74  each. 
Sinp:le  numbers  of  any  of  the  above  Volumes,  15  cents  each. 
For  Gei'nxan  Editioix^  add  50  cts.  per  volume  to  all  the  above. 

BIncliiij?*— Sot?  sent  to  the  office  will  be  bound  up  neatly 
(in  our  rejjular  style  of  binding)  for  75  cents  a  volume. 
•  Prepared  Covers.— Covers  for  binding:,  neatly  made,  with 
title,  etc.,  jrilt  upon  the  back,  ready  for  tlie  insertion  of  the 
sheets  by  any  bookbinder,  can  be  furnished  for  Vols.  10.  to  23 
inclusive,  at  45  cents  per  cover.  Com*s  ca?i  not  go  by  mail. 


^iiurican  Agriculturist. 

For  tiic  Farm,  Garden,  and  Ilouseiiold. 

A  THOitouoH-ROlNa.  RELIABLE,  and  PRACTICAL 
Jniirual.  devoted  to  the  different  deparlmeiits  of  SOIL 
CULTURE — such  as  growing  kiei.d  CROPS  :  onciiARii 
and  GARDEN  FRUITS:  garden  VEGETABLES  and 
FLOWERS;  trees,  pi-ants.  and  ki.owers  for  the 
LAWN  or  YARD;  care  of  DOMESTIC  ANIMALS, 
etc.,  and  to  HOUSEHOLD  LA  BOIIS.  with  an  intfircsting, 
instructive  department  for  CHILDREN  and  A’OUTH. 

The  Edilors  are  all  practical  WORKING  MEN. 

The  teachings  of  the  Aguicui.turist  are  confined  to  no 
State  or  Territory,  but  are  adapted  to  all  sections  of  the 
country — it  is  for  the  whole  American  Continent. 

TERMS  (in  advance):  81.50  per  ye.Tr  ;  Foui 
Copiesone  year  for  S.5  ;  Ten  Copies  one  year  for  §12; 
Twenty  or  more  Copiesone  year  for  SI  each. 

CF  Add  to  the  above  rates:  Postage  to  Canada,  12  ceiiis, 
to  England  and  France.  24  cents  ;  to  Germaiiv,  3ti  cents. 

Postage  anywhere  in  the  United  States  and  ’Territories 
must  be  paid  by  the  subscriber,  and  is  only  three  cents  a 
quarter,  if  paid  in  advance  at  the  office  w  here  it  is  received. 
.  Address  comiiuinicationsto  the  Publisher  and  Proprietor, 

ORANGE  JUDD,  41  Park-Row,  New-York  City. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 

FOR  THE 

Farm,  GrarcLen,  and.  Honseliold. 


“AOKIOCLTUKE  18  THE  MOST  lIEALTItFUI,,  MOST  USEFUL,  AXI>  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OF  MAN.^-WAOHraaToii. 


ORANGE  A.M., 

PUBLISHEK  AND  PKOPRIETOR. 
OJIice,  41  Psirk  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IH  1842. 

Pablislied  also  in  German  at  Two  Dollars  a  Year. 


1  SI. 50  PER  ARTTtJM,  ADVANCE 
j  SINGLE  NUMBER,  15  CENTS. 

'  4Coi>ies  forS5;  10 for .^13;  80 or  more.  $  1  each 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  8. 


NEW- YORK,  AUGUST.  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  223. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  the  year  1S64,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  the  Clerk’s  OlUce  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  tlie  Southern  District  of  New-York. 
5^  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  lyeach  article  be  credited  to  A7nerican  AffricuUiiri-st. 


Contents  for  August,  1865. 

American  Extravagance  in  Living . 254 

Barn  Plans  Wanted— $300  Premium  Offered . 239 

Bees — Apiary  in  August . 236 

Blackberry  Wine  and  Syrup . 254 

Boys  and  Girls’  Columns— Notes  on  Getting  Fire — 
Boy  in  a  Predicament— Proper  Musical  Instrument 
— President  Lincoln's  Sympathy— The  Hurt  Chicken 
— Problems  and  Puzeles — Who  are  the  Benevolent  ? 
—Arkwright  and  the  Spinning  Jenny— The  Old  Flag 
in  Baltimore— Good  and  Bad  Ajiples — A  German 

Tradition . 5  Illustrations .  .2^5-256 

Bread,  etc.,  from  Wheaten  Meal . . . .  254 

Breeding  Animals — Slaughter  of . 247 

Cows — Maintaining  Full  Flow  of  Milk . 243 

Cranberry  Cultivation— Practical  Experience . 250 

Doors— Remedy  for  Sagging . 254 

Exhibitions— Times  and  Placesof  Holding . 258 

Farm  Work  in  August . 253 

Fences  and  Highway  Cattle .  ...  .242 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  August . 235 

Fly  Poison -A  Caution . 254 

Fruit  Garden  in  August . 235 

Garden-Kitchen  in  August . 234 

German  AgricuUuri.st— Terms  Changed . 239 

Grain  Cradles — Best  Form . . 2  Illustrations . 

Grain —Different  Modes  of  Binding . Illustrated.  .2i6 

Grain— Raking  and  Binding,... . 246 

Grape  Vines — New  Disease . 251 

Grape  Vines— Pot,  and  Open  Culture. 2/Nusfrafions.  .249 

Grapes— Cold  Grapery  in  August.... . .....235 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  August..  . .  235 

Harvest — Securing . Illustrated.  .248 

Harvest  Time  Now  and  Formerly . 247 

Hay— Carrving  by  Hand . Ilhistrated.  .2ii 

Hay-Fork  for  Oxen— Hutchinson’s . Illustrated.  .2ii 

Manure  Tank  and  Cesspool . Illustrated.  .245 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes . 258 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  August . 233 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  August . 234 

Peas — Harvesting . 243 

Pickles— Notes  on  Making . . 253 

Plow — Attachment  for  Turning  Weeds. .  Illustrated.  .2ii 

Plow — Hutchinson’s  Improved . 2  Illustrations .  .245 

Plowing  Green  <3rops  for  Manure .  Illustrated.. 244 

P.  O.  Money  Orders— Where  Given . 239 

Poultry- Group  of  Asiatic  Fowls . Illustrated.  .241 

Recipes— Soft  Sorghum  Cake— Gingerbread — Extra 
Pudding— Egg  Puffs-Steamed  Indian  Pudding— To 
Remove  Lime  Spots  from  Cloth— To  Prevent  Stoves 

Rusting — 'To  Keep  Steel  from  Rusting . 254-235 

Recreation  and  Visiting  among  Farmers . 253 

Salting  Stock,  and  Salting  Hay . 240 

Sanitary  Commission  and  the  People . 233 

Sheep  Laurel  iKalmia  angusti/olia) . Illustrated.  .249 

Sheep— Management  of  Hoof  Rot..... . 242 

Shrub— Double  Deutzia . Illustrated.  .252 

Soda  Wash  for  Fruit  Trees . 253 

g„il — Keep  Beston  the  Surface . Illustrated.. 242 

Sorghum  as  a  Green  Fodder  Crop . 240 

Strawberries— Notes  on . 252 

Trees — Felling;  Problems  Proposed. .../Hustrafed. .240 

Turnips  Sown  in  August . 241 

Weed — Field  Horse  Tail . 4  Illustrations .  .250 

Weed — Toad  Flax . Illustrated.  .252 

Western  Agriculture . 246 

INDEX  TO  “  BASKET,”  OB  SHORTEB  ARTICLES. 


Advertising  Pages . 236 

Agricultural  Report . 237 

Agriculture  at  Yale . 236 

Ant  Hills . 238 

Barnum’s  Display . 239 

Bees,  Italianizing . 238 

Blackberry,  Wilson . 237 

Black  Knot . 237 

Cabbag;  Seed . 237 

Canker  Worms . 238 

Catalogues  Received.... 239 

ciiurn,  Best . 237 

Churning . 237 

Currants,  Dried. .238 

Currants,  Large . 237 

Currant  Worm . 237 

Death,  A.  O.  Moore . 237 

Death,  Buckminster  ...  239 

Death,  J.  Paxton.  . 237 

Fair  American  Inititute  236 


Fair,  Notices . 239 

Farms,  Locating . 237 

Flag  Leek . 237 

Foreign  Intelligence.... 237 

Frog  Exhibition . 237 

Fruit  Jars.... . 237 

Grape  Mildew . 237 

Grapes,  Fine . 239 

(irapes,  Iona,  Israella...237 

Grapes,  Training . 239 

Horticultural  Humbug.. 237 
Horticultural  Register.  .2.37 

Hyacinths,  Pruning . 239 

Leaky  Teats . 23S 

Live  Oak . 23* 

Manures,  Phosphatic _ 238 

Merchants’  Exchange  17.238 

Milk.  Cooling . 239 

Pe.ach.  Hale’s.. . ..239 

Plants  Named . 239 


Potato  Beetle.. . 239jStrawberrv  Queries . 237 

Potatoes,  Productive. ...238  Strawberries  in  Englaiul.237 

Shingles,  Laying . 23S|S«ill  Fermenled . 2.39 

Silk  Worms  in  France ,.238|Teats,  Removing . ..237 

Soldiers’  Claims . 236  Tomato  Seed . 237 

Sorgo  Machinery . 237|Thrips  or  Fritters . 237 

Steel  Traps _ .’. . 238lWheat.  Boughton ...... .238 

Stings,  Remedy . 238lWorld’s  Fair . 236 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

August  is  often  a  very  pleasant,  but  often  a 
distracting  month  for  the  farmer.  The  summer 
may  just  begin  to  he  very  liard  upon  the  pas¬ 
tures  and  crops.  Wells  and  springs  may  he 
very  low.  Or  rains  and  mucky  weatlier  may 
rust  the  grain,  and  must  tlie  hay  and  liinder  woilc 
dreadfully,  and  many  things  maybe  perplexing 
and  making  extra  work.  Summer  fruit  is  rip¬ 
ening,  and  fruit  orchards  need  particular 
attention.  Gunners  and  flocks  of  neighbors’ 
turkeys  are  trespassing,  paying  little  heed  to  the 
laws  they  break  or  the  damage  they  do.  The 
farmer  has  emphatically  his  hands  full — so 
many  “irons  in  the  fire”  that  some  will  burn 
unless  lie  uses  patience,  promptness  and  discrim¬ 
ination,  and  is  not  worried  by  unavoidable 
circumstances,  however  annoying. 

Cows. — Read  the  article  on  maintaining  the 
flow  of  milk  on  another  page.  Farrow  cows, 
that  are  to  be  fattened  in  the  fall,  should  he 
dried  off  at  once,  so  that  they  may  get  in  good 
condition  before  cool  weather.  It  is  folly  to 
think  of  fattening  an  old,  farrow  cow  while  she 
is  milked.  To  dry  a  cow  off  in  the  shortest 
time,  milk  only  enough  to  relieve  a  painful  dis¬ 
tention  of  her  udder.  This  will  soon  prevent 
the  secretion  of  milk. 

Calves. — Wean  calves  gradually.  Restrict 
their  allowance  to  one  teat  per  day.  Then  al¬ 
low  them  to  suck  only  a  part  of  the  milk  in  one 
teat.  After  a  few  days  longer,  let  them  suck 
only  once  a  day  for  a  week.  Then,  once  in  two 
days  for  a  week ;  then  once  in  three  days.  By 
this  time,  if  they  have  been  managed  as  directed 
on  page  169  of  the  June  number,  they  may  be 
weaned  with  little  disturbance  from  either  dam 
or  calf,  and  without  growing  poor,  as  they  al¬ 
ways  do,  when  weaned  abrupt!}’. 

Colts. — Spring  colts  as  well  as  calves  should 
be  weaned  generally  in  August.  Confine  them 
in  a  small,  clean  enclosure,  where  they  cannot 
run  much;  asd  let  them  suck  twice  a  day; 
then  once ;  then  once  in  two  days ;  then  once 
in  three  days.  See  that  colts  and  calves  do  not 
lack  a  good  supply  of  clean  water  and  good 
grass,  or  fine  hay,  and  salt. 

Corn. — Indian  corn  is  now  too  large  to  allow  a 
horse-hoe  among  it.  Pull  up  all  weeds  and 
thistles  near  the  hills,  and  set  erect  those  stalks 
that  wind  and  storms  have  prostrated,  and  hill 
them  sufficiently  to  keep  them  up.  The  brace 
roots  will  soon  hold  them,  and  the  ears  will  fill 
much  better  than  if  they  were  lying  down.  It 
is  always  important  to  attend  to  this  work  be¬ 
fore  the  brace  roots  are  formed. 


Carrots. — Suffer  no  weeds  to  grow  among 
them.  Stir  the  ground  frequently  between  the 
rows,  and  if  they  need  manure,  apply  it  in  a 
liquid  state  with  a  watering  pot,  while  rain  is 
falling,  so  that  it  will  not  injure  the  leaves. 

Ashes. — Save  wood  as  well  as  coal  ashes.  At 
some  asheries,  the  leaches  are  shoveled  into  a 
river.  It  will  pay  well  to  collect  them  in  large 
heaps,  and  cover  the  wet  ashes  with  boards  so 
that  they  will  dry  out  by  next  winter,  when 
teams  may  haul  them  to  the  fields  where  they 
are  to  be  spread.  They  are  greatly  valued  in 
the  older  parts  of  the  country,  and  sliould  be. 

Aiiples. — Confine  swine  or  sheep  in  apple  or¬ 
chards  to  consume  the  wormy  fruit  as  it  falls, 
before  the  larvae  escape.  Picking  it  up  by  hand 
every  few  days,  and  burning  or  burying  in  a 
heap  of  compost  with  lime,  will  destroy  them. 

Buildings. — Examine  the  roofs  for  leaks.  A 
crack  in  a  shingle  directly  over  a  joint  in  the 
course  next  below  it,  frequently  lets  rain 
through  the  roof  where  shingles  are  good.  A 
heavy  coat  of  coal  tar  applied  to  a  roof  will 
sometimes  stop  all  leaks.  Fasten  all  loose 
boards  and  siding  on  houses  and  out-buildings 
before  they  become  more  warped  and  looser. 

Barley. — Secure  it  from  alternate  storms  and 
sunshine,  if  possible,  before  the  straw  is  nearly 
spoiled  for  fodder,  and  the  grain  injured  by 
wetting  and  drying.  Secure  barley  straw,  as 
soon  as  threshed,  for  fodder. 

Butter. — See  that  all  milk  vessels  are  well 
scalded  and  sunned  without  fail,  daily.  Where 
cream  cannot  be  churned  daily,  keep  it  cool  as 
possible  with  ice.  Work  thoroughly,  salt  well, 
and  sprinkle  a  spoonful  of  clean  white  sugar 
between  the  layers,  as  they  are  packed.  See 
that  milkers  clean  not  only  the  udder  and  adja¬ 
cent  parts,  and  their  hands  also  before  milking. 

Braining.  —  Improve  the  dry  weather  in 
draining  swamps  and  springy  places,  where 
there  is  so  much  water  at  other  seasons  of  the 
year,  as  to  hinder  digging.  Fill  ditches  already 
dug,  before  fall  rains  occur. 

Eave  Troughs. — Where  the  water  is  not  col 
lected  in  cisterns,  give  eave  troughs  a  liberal 
smearing  with  coal  tar,  whether  metallic  or 
wood.  See  that  water  and  dirt  do  not  stand  in 
them  in  fair  weather.  Put  up  eave  trouglis  to 
carry  water  from  manure  yards,  as  well  as 
from  the  walls  on  which  a  building  rests. 

Eggs. — Collect  them  daily.  Change  tlie  nest 
eggs  often.  An  egg  will  be  spoiled  by  allowing 
it  to  remain  in  a  nest  for  a  few  days,  wliere 
bans  are  laying.  Put  them  little  end  down  m 
oats  in  a  cool,  but  not  damp,  place.  Go  into 
a  dark  room  and  pass  the  eggs,  two  or  three  it 
each  hand,  before  a  lamp ;  and  if  the  shells  are 
clean,  bad  ones  can  be  detected  at  once. 

Eood. — Farmers  pay  too  little  attention  tc 
their  daily  food.  A  laborer  can  not  long  en¬ 
dure  very  hard  work  unless  he  is  fed  well 


234 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[August, 


I 


Jf’eitces. — Where  rail  fences  have  settled  into  the 
ground,  pry  up  the  corners,  and  put  stones  or 
blocks  beueath.  Where  no  sheep  are  kept,  a  rail 
fence  may  be  raised  a  foot  or  more  high  with 
blocks  and  i>ieces  of  old  rails,  and  thus  save  many 
whole  oues.  Fasten  all  loose  boards  before  the 
wind,  or  animals,  separate  them  fj'om  the  posts. 

Harrows. — Clean  the  points  of  the  teeth,  and  it 
they  must  be  left  out  of  doors,  let  them  stand  on 
strips  of  boards,  as  rust  often  corrodes  them  nearly 
as  much  as  usage  wears  them  out. 


Horn  Fiths. — Collect  them  at  tanneries,  and  plow 


them.  They  are  valuable  fertilizers  for  any  purpose. 


Horses. — Do  not  over-drive  in  hot  weather.  Never 
allow  a  horse  to  drink  when  warm,  unless  he  is  to 
be  kept  moving  as  usual.  Where  they  are  stabled 
during  hot  weather,  clean  the  stables  often,  litter 
well,  and  allow  each  animal  to  have  a  breathing 
hole  in  the  window  or  wall  before  him,  if  possible. 
Some  horses  gall  very  easily  beueath  the  collar 
and  harness,  during  hot  weather,  where  the  parts 
do  not  fit  well.  Wash  the  wounds  with  clean  wa¬ 
ter,  and  apply  a  paste  made  of  white  lead  and 
linseed  oil.  Then  provide  a  collar  or  harness  that 
will  not  chafe.  The  comfort  of  working  horses  may 
be  much  promoted,  while  in  the  harness,  by  hanging 
strips  of  cloth  to  the  harness  so  as  to  dangle  about 
their  fore  legs. '  Long  and  narrow  pieces  of  sheep 
skin  or  old  buffalo  robe,  or  two  .or  three  raccoons’ 
tails  sewed  together,  will  keep  the  files  eflectually 
from  the  fore  legs.  Many  farmers  in  the  country 
adopt  the  excellent  practice  of  attaching  a  piece  of 
white  shirting  to  the  bridle,  to  protect  the  entii'C 
under  jaw  and  throat  from  the  botfly. 

Harness. — During  stormy  days  and  leisure  hours, 
clean,  repair,  oil  and  varnish  harness.  Always  wet 
dry  leather  before  oiling.  Neat’s  foot  oil  is  best 
for  harness.  An  excellent  black  varnish  for  har¬ 
ness  is  half  a  pound  of  gum  shellac  dissolved  in  a 
pint  of  good  alcohol,  an  ounce  of  good  lamp  black, 
and  an  ounce  of  gum  camphor,  corked  tight  in  a 
bottle,  shaken  up  frequently  and  applied  with  a 
swab  or  brush.  Add  more  alcohol  if  too  thick. 

Linseed  Cake. — Some  farmers,  who  feed  oil  meal, 
frequeutly  purchase  in  the  summer,  when  it  is 
cheaper  than  in  winter. 

Manure. — Scrape  manure  yards  and  sheds,  and 
collect  all  the  fine  and  well-rotted  manure  to  apply 
to  wheat  at  seed  time.  Beneath  many  barns  in  the 
country,  there  are  a  number  of  loads  of  the  choicest 
manure  for  wheat,  which  may  be  shoveled  out  by 
taking  up  a  few  loose  planks  in  the  stable. 

Machines. —  Purchase  or  repair  thrashing  ma¬ 
chines,  and  straw  and  hay  cutters  for  fall  and  win¬ 
ter’s  use.  Months  often  elapse  after  a  machine  is 
ordered  before  it  can  be  shipped,  or  come  to  hand. 

Oats. — Harvest  before  they  are  dead  ripe.  If  cut 
when  about  two-thirds  of  the  panicles  appear  of  a 
yellowish  color,  the  grain  will  be  heavier  and  the 
straw  will  make  excellent  fodder.  Where  one  h.as 
abundance  of  room,  oats  may  be  gathered  loose  and 
much  faster,  than  in  sheaves.  If  bound,  they 
occupy  far  less  space  either  in  a  stack  or  mow.  It 
is  well  to  save  seed  where  it  ripens  first. 

Orchards. — When  the  ground  is  not  covered  with 
a  smooth  turf,  remove  all  brush  and  sticks,  level 
with  hoes,  harrow  thoroughly,  put  all  the  stones  in 
close  heaps  where  apples  will  not  fall  on  them  and 
be  bruised,  roll,  and  sow  a  bushel  of  orchard  grass 
seed  and  half  a  bushel  of  Kentucky  blue  grass  seed 
per  acre.  This  will  form  a  soft  and  smooth  surface 
for  the  fruit  to  drop  on,  when  it  is  to  be  gathered. 

Oxen.— Let  oxen  work  in  the  cool  parts  of  the 
day,  and  enjoy  quiet  rest  and  rumination  while  it  is 
too  hot  to  labor.  Feed  well,  use  them  gently,  and 
they  will  do  more,  and  grow  fat  while  working. 

Pastures.— Wheva  the  ground  is  very  dry  and  the 
grass  short,  it  is  better  to  give  all  stock  one  feeding 
of  hay,  daily,  than  to  .allow  them  to  gnaw  the  gr.ass 
close  to  the  ground.  Sheep,  neat  ciittle  and  horses 
will  subsist  on  hay  in  summer  as  well  as  in  winter. 
Pastures  must  have  more  time  to  grow  in  hot  and 
dry  Wfiather,  than  when  vegetation  does  not  suffer 
for  rain.  If  pastures  are  short,  let  stock  he  fed 
green  corn  stalks  or  sorghum,  a  portion  of  the  time. 


Peas. — When  peas  are  to  be  fed  to  swine  without 
threshiug,  those  who  pr.actise  feeding  them  prefer 
putting  them  in  large  stacks.  Then,  those  that  are 
wet  by  r.aius  can  be  fed  out  before  they  have  been 
injured.  If  designed  for  sheep  next  winter,  it  is 
better  to  house  them,  or  put  them  in  loug  and  n.ar- 
row  stacks,  and  cover  with  a  lean-to  roof  of  boards. 

Poultry. — Drive  turkeys,  ducks  and  chickens  to 
the  meadows  and  whetit  stubbles,  that  they  may  eat 
grasshoppers  and  scattered  grain.  A  mixture  of 
loppered  milk  and  luclian  meal  is  excellent  to  make 
poultry  grow  and  hens  lay. 

Seed. — Save  grass  seed  of  all  good  kinds  to  stock 
down  with  next  month.  Gather  turnip,  carrot, 
parsnip,  and  other  seed,  before  birds  waste  them. 
Every  farmer  should  save  his  own  seed,  and  pre¬ 
serve  his  best  roots,  grain,  grass,  etc.,  for  seed. 

Sheep. — Lambs  should  usually  be  weaned  this 
month,  to  allo.w  their  dams  to  reciipeiute  before 
winter.  Late  lambs  need  not  be  separated  till  next 
month.  Let  ewes  and  lambs  be  confined  in  contig¬ 
uous  fields,  if  possible,  as  they  will  he  more  quiet 
i  when  only  a  fence  separ.ates  them.  Let  several  dry 
ewes,  or  those  h.aving  very  young  lambs,  run  with 
the  flock  of  lambs  to  make  them  more  gentle  and 
manageable.  Examine  the  heads  of  bucks  for  mag¬ 
gots  about  their  horns.  Apply  tar  as  warm  as  it 
can  be  and  not  burn,  to  any  part  where  the  skin  is 
broken,  especially  where  maggots  have  hatched.  It 
is  a  common  thing  for  bucks  to  have  bruises  and 
i  sores  filled  with  maggots  about  their  horns. 

Swine. — Read  remarks  on  swine  in  July  number. 

Stacks. — Retop  them  as  soon  as  they  settle,  rak¬ 
ing  them  off  smoothly,  when  wet,  so  as  to  turn  all 
straws  down  the  sides  to  conduct  the  rain  off  readily. 

Turnips. — Cultivate  and  hoe  often.  Keep  down 
all  weeds  and  grass.  Thin  out  the  drills.  More 
roots  can  be  raised  at  10  inches  apart  than  at  5 
inches.  Fill  up  all  vae.aut  places  with  such  as  are 
pulled  up.  Plants  always  live  better  if  put  out 
just  before  night,  than  in  the  former  part  of  the 
day,  unless  the  weather  is  constantly  cloudy. 

Tools. — Protect  all  tools,  whether  iron,  steel,  or 
wood,  from  alternate  rain,  dew  and  sunshine. 
Moisture  and  heat  will  rust  iron,  while  wet  raises  the 
grain  of  wood,  makes  it  rough,  and  rots  the  joints. 

Wagons. — Keep  all  wheel  vehicles  in  the  shade 
during  hot  weather.  If  a  tire  is  very  loose,  reset 
it.  If  loose  but  little,  the  felloes  of  nice  wheels 
may  be  saturated  with  linseed  oil,  and  wheels  of 
ox  carts  and  lumber  wagons  soaked  in  coal  tar. 

Water. — Sec  that  every  animal  is  supplied  with 
clean  water.  Hens,  turkeys  and  ducks,  often  suffer 
for  di'ink  in  August.  Scrub  out  the  water  troughs 
often  where  horses  and  neat  cattle  drink;  and  see 
that  the  timid  and  weaker  ones  are  allowed  to  come 
to  the  water  as  often  as  the  master  animals.  Sheep 
will  thrive  well  without  water,  but  much  better 
when  they  have  access  to  it. 

Wells. —  Jlake  preparations  for  digging  wells 
where  needed  this  month,  when  springs  of  w.ater 
arc  low.  Collect  stones,  brick,  timber,  or  water- 
lime  and  sand  for  stoning,  bricking,  curbing,  or 
plastering.  Most  farmers  can  make  a  well  at  a 
small  expense,  with  a  little  pains  and  management. 

Wheat. — Obtain  good  seed,  free  friyn  weed  seeds 
and  shrunken  kernels.  Prepare  the  ground  well, 
put  in  the  seed  in  good  time,  not  without  a  dres¬ 
sing  of  some  kind  of  manure.  If  the  soil  is  not 
well  under  drained,  where  it  is  apt  to  be  too  wet 
for  winter  grain,  better  defer  sowing  winter  wheat, 
and  raise  spring  wheat  next  season. 

Yards. — Improve  leisure  days  after  harvest  in 
fencing  and  improving  barn  yards.  Read  about  them 
in  the  calendar  for  Julj’,  and  practise  accordingly. 


Work  in  tiic  Orchard  and  I^nrscry. 

What  with  the  failure  of  fruit  to  set  freely  and  the 
ravages  of  insects,  the  harvest  of  most  kinds  will 
be  small.  Those  who  live  in  southern  loc.alities 
will  do  well  to  turn  their  attention  to  early  fruits 
for  the  markets  of  the  larger  cities.  The  most 
miserable  apologies  for  pears,  small,  green  and 
unwholesome,  were  brought  from  Maryland  and 
Virginia,  and  sold  at  enormous  prices  the  first  week 


in  July.  Now  we  don’t  believe  in  fruit  of  this  1 
kind,  and  never  should  buy  it,  but  as  there  are 
plenty  of  people  who  will  pay  a  good  price  for  the 
earliest  of  everything,  the  fruit  raiser  must  consult 
the  demands  of  the  market.  We  can  not  too  often 
impress  upon  those  who  send  fruit  to  market,  thn  ‘ 
necessity  of  sending  it  in  good  shape.  Careful  pick-  ^ 
ing  and  assorting  will  always  pay,  the  best  fruit  [ 
being  put  by  itself  and  the  poorer  in  separate  lots  i 
the  whole  will  give  a  better  return  than  when  go  )d  i 
and  bad  are  indiscriminately  mixed,  as  then  the  po  )r 
detr.acts  from  the  appearance  of  the  good,  while  ; 
.at  the  same  time  it  looks  worse,  by  contrast  | 
with  the  better  than  it  would  were  it  placed  by  it¬ 
self.  Early  varieties  of  apples  and  pears,  as  well 
as  peaches  should  be  picked  before  they  begin  to 
soften,  as  they  will  carry  better  and  be  iu  good  eat¬ 
ing  condition  by  the  time  they  reach  the  consumer.  ! 

Budding. — This  method  of  propagation  is  largely  ! 
practised  this  month.  The  operation  is  a  very  j 
simple  one,  and  a  few  minutes  watching  of  an  ex-  | 
perieneed  hand  is  worth  more  than  a  long  descrip-  i 
tion.  It  was  illustrated  in  August  of  last  year,  and 
any  one  by  carefully  following  that,  may  under¬ 
take  it  with  a  good  prospect  of  success. 

Borers. — These  mischievous  carpenters  work  in¬ 
dustriously  this  month.  The  eggs  which  have  been 
laid  upon  the  bark  have  hatched  and  the  young  | 
grubs  will  work  their  way  into  the  trunk,  unless 
p.aper,  or  some  preventive  has  been  wrapped  around 
it.  Now  is  the  time  to  e.xamine  the  trunk  near  the  , 
ground,  and  if  any  holes  are  found,  folloiv  the  ' 
maker  with  a  wire  or  whalebone  probe.  Nothing 
kills  insects  more  effectually  than  crushing  them. 

Even-greens. — With  proper  care  these  may  be  rc-  ! 
moved  this  month,  and  with  more  chances  of  suc¬ 
cess  than  if  it  is  done  in  autumn.  Make  the  re- 
mov.al  in  a  damp  time,  keep  the  roots  from  drying,  ' 
and  see  that  the  holes  in  which  they  are  placed,  are 
moist,  or  made  so  by  watering.  A  few  large  stones 
placed  over  the  roots  are  better  than  stakes  to  hold 
the  tree  in  place. 

Layers. — This  season’s  growth  of  shrubs  is  gene-  • 
rally  sufficiently  matured  for  Layering,  according 
to  directions  already  given  in  the  present  volume. 
Have  the  soil  into  which  the  Layer  is  put,  fine  and 
rich,  and  with  things  that  do  not  root  very  readily, 
make  a  slanting  cut  about  h.alf  way  through  the 
branch  on  the  under  side  of  the  portion  to  be  buried. 

P-uning. — If  the  work  was  not  finished  iu  July,  I 
better  do  it  the  present  month  than  delay  it  until  ‘ 
spring.  Some  good  horticulturists  use  a  very  heavy 
long  handled  chisel  driven  with  a  mallet.  With  all 
but  very  large  limbs,  this  is  better  than  a  saw ;  the 
cut  being  made  from  the  underside  of  the  limb, 
there  is  no  risk  of  a  r.agged  wound.  If  a  little 
attention  be  now  paid  to  the  formation  of  young 
trees,  much  pruning  may  be  avoided. 

Seeds  and  Seedlings. — Continue  to  collect  seeds  of 
trees  and  shrubs  as  they  ripen,  and  sow  as  soou  as  i 
gathered,  or  keep  iu  sand  until  spring.  This  is  a 
trying  month  with  seedlings,  and  care  must  be 
given  to  properly  shade  and  weed  them.  Give 
water  when  the  weather  is  dry. 

Water  and  3{idch. — If  trees  set  this  spring  show 
signs  of  suffering,  remove  the  surface  earth,  water  | 
copiously,  replace  the  earth  and  put  on  a  mulch  of  ' 
some  kind  to  prevent  ev.apor.ation.  One  operation 
of  this  kind  will  often  save  a  valuable  tree  or  shrub.  | 
Weeds. — These  hinder  the  growth  of  woody  plants 
as  well  as  they  do  that  of  faster  growing  ones,  and 
every  one  who  raises  nursery  stock,  either  for  his  i 
own  use  or  for  s.ale,  will  find  it  to  his  advantage  to  j 
keep  the  ifiauts  free  of  weeds  and  the  soil  stirred. 


Mitclicn  €»ai'den.— A  good  gardener, 
like  a  good  sailor,  alwtiys  keeps  a  bright  lookout 
ahead.  Not  only  does  the  garden  require  that  he 
should  lay  his  pLans  for  the  present  year,  but  he 
must  take  some  thought  for  the  coming  one.  There 
are  two  things  for  the  benefit  of  next  year’s  crop 
which  may  now  be  cared  for  with  profit ;  seeds  and 
nianure,  two  essentials  iu  successful  gardening. 
While  we  do  not  think  it  worth-while  for  those 
who  have  small  gardens  to  raise  all  their  seeds,  yet 


1885,] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


335 


they  can  do  so  with  the  great  majority  of  them. 
There  is  a  great  deal  of  nonsense  in  print  about 
kinds  running  out  and  the  necessity  for  a  fresh 
stock.  Seeds  will  run  out  if  the  poorest  and  latest 
product  of  the  meanest  plants  is  saved  for  seed,  and 
they  can  be  improved  if  care  be  taken  to  properly 
select  the  best  of  everything.  We  know  of  one 
place,  famous  for  its  sweet  corn,  in  which  the  same 
variety  has  been  kept  distinct  and  improving  for 
more  than  20  years.  We  know  that  it  seems  hard 
when  tomatoes,  cucumbers,  etc.,  first  come,  to  take 
the  very  earliest  and  best  of  them  for  seed  for  next 
year’s  crop,  but  that  is  just  the  proper  way  to 
do.  And  more  than  this,  the  careful  gardener  will, 
with  corn,  beans,  and  all  plants  which  show  distinct 
characters  in  the  seeds,  assort  the  seeds  and  reject 
those  which  differ  from  the  true  kind  in  size,  shape, 
or  color.  With  all  seeds  which  show  any  signs  of 
mixture,  or  deterioration,  this  selection  should  be 
carefully  made.  Even  now  the  most  promising 
biennials,  such  as  early  beets,  salsify,  etc.,  may  be 
marked  for  preservation  with  the  view  to  produce 
seed  from  them.  Then  as  to  manures,  in  even  a  small 
garden  what  a  heap  of  refuse  may  be  accumulated 
during  the  summer  !  Wo  every  day  go  by  a  large 
patch  of  early  cabbages,  from  w'hich  the  heads  are 
cut  for  market  and  the  outer  leaves  and  stumps  are 
left  to  dry  up  in  the  field.  We  shall  doubtless  next 
spring  hear  the  proprietor  complaining  of  the 
scarcity  of  manure,  when  by  a  little  labor  he  could 
have  had  a  quantity  from  wasted  cabbage  refuse. 

Asparagus. — There  is  nothing  to  do  to  the  beds 
except  to  puil  up  such  coarse  weeds  as  make  their 
appearance.  If  new  beds  are  wanted,  gather  the 
seeds  when  ripe  and  sow  at  once,  or  clean  and  pre¬ 
serve  them  for  sowing  next  spring. 

Beans. — Plant  Refugee  or  other  early  sort  for  late 
use  and  for  salting.  String  and  break  the  pods  as 
for  cooking,  and  pack  them  in  stone  jars,  or  in 
firkins,  with  alternate  layers  of  salt  and  beans. 
Prepared  in  this  way  they  will  keep  all  winter,  and 
when  properly  freshened,  are  almost  as  good  as  if 
recently  picked.  Limas  are  disposed  to  set  much 
more  fruit  than  they  can  mature.  Cutting  off  the 
vine  at  the  top  of  the  pole  or  trellis  and  shortening 
in  the  more  rampant  side  branches,  will  hasten  the 
development  of  the  remaining  pods. 

Beets. — Thin  and  keep  the  weeds  down  and  the 
ground  loose  by  hoe.  In  small  gardens  it  will  pay 
to  water  beets  in  a  dry  time ;  when  their  growth  is 
checked  they  are  not  so  good  as  when  grown  rapidly. 

Cabbages  and  Cauliflower's. — Use  or  market  the 
early  sorts,  and  remove  the  refuse  to  the  compost 
heap,  or  feed  it  out.  Late  sorts  may  be  set  this 
month,  and  make  a  crop.  Caterpillars  will  be 
troublesome  and  must  be  killed.  In  some  places 
slugs  do  great  damage.  They  are  found  under  the 
lowest  leaves,  and  should  be  destroyed. 

Carrots. — Hoe  thin  and  weed.  If  young  carrots 
are  preferred  for  the  table,  sow  for  a  late  supply. 

Celei-y. — That  planted  early  in  trenches,  must  be 
earthed  up.  Set  plants  of  the  latest  crop.  Read 
article  on  page  218,  last  month,  upon  flat  cnlture. 

Corn. — Keep  down  weeds,  but  do  not  disturb  the 
roots.  Note  the  earliest  and  finest  ears  and  reserve 
them  for  seed.  The  worm  that  infests  the  ears 
makes  its  appearance  this  month,  and  where  the 
silk  has  been  eaten,  search  for  and  destroy  him. 

Cucumber'S. — Seed  for  next  year  is  best  saved  by 
reserving  the  fruit  on  the  earliest  vines.  Allow 
only  a  few  to  ripen  and  pick  off  all  others  that  set, 
when  very  small.  Gather  for  pickles  as  soon  as  of 
suitable  size,  and  put  in  salt.  See  article  on  page  254. 

Egg  Plants. — Cultivate  thoroughly  and  draw  the 
earth  around  the  stem.  Caterpillars  are  very  de-* 
strnetiTe  to  the  foliage,  and  If  holes  appear  in  the 
leaves,  the  enemy  will  be  found  on  the  under  side. 
The  rapidly  swelling  fruit  should  be  kept  from 
touching  the  ground  by  means  of  a  handful  of 
straw,  or  a  shingle  placed  under  it. 

Endive. — Set  out  for  late  crop,  at  least  a  foot  apart 
each  way.  The  early  plants  may  be  blanched  by 
gathering  up  the  leaves  when  quite  dry,  and  tying 
them  together  near  the  tips. 


Herbs. — Continue  to  cut  as  directed  last  mouth. 

Lettuce. — Sow  for  a  late  crop,  which  will  do  all 
the  better  in  a  partly  shaded  place. 

Melons. — Remove  all  fruit  not  likely  to  ripen. 
Those  approaching  maturity  should  be  turned  oc¬ 
casionally  and  kept  from  contact  with  the  earth  by 
a  shingle  or  a  little  straw. 

Onions. — Harvest  as  soon  as  the  majority  of  the 
tops  fall  over.  Dry  thoroughly  if  they  are  to  be 
stored.  Many  send  their  onions  directly  from  the 
field  to  the  market,  instead  of  storing  them. 

Peas. — Our  experience  with  late  sown  varieties 
has  not  been  very  encouraging.  Those  who  wish 
to  try  it,  can  sow  some  of  the  early  sorts  now. 

Potatoes. — Digas  wanted  from  day  to  day,  burying 
the  green  tops  in  the  rows.  Those  for  seed  may 
remain  in  the  ground  until  the  tops  are  quite  dead. 

Badish. — The  Chinese  Rose-colored  is  an  excellent 
late  variety,  which  may  be  kept  all  winter  as 
easily  as  turnips.  Sow  now  in  vacant  places. 

Seeds. — Continue  to  gather  as  they  mature,  read¬ 
ing  the  suggestions  given  above. 

Squashes. — The  squash-bug  and  the  borer  will 
need  looking  after,  as  well  as  the  12-spottcd  Oaleruca, 
a  yellow  insect  shaped  like  a  lady-bug,  with  12 
black  spots.  It  is  one  of  the  most  destructive  of 
insects,  but  fortunately  not  very  common. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — Do  not  allow  the  vines  to  take 
root,  and  keep  the  weeds  out. 

Tomatoes. — Look  out  for  the  worm  and  cut  back 
the  rampant  branches. 

Turnips. — Thin  Rutabagas  when  large  enough. 
Sow  round  kinds  in  places  left  by  early  crops. 

Weeds. — Allow  none  to  get  large  enough  to  per¬ 
fect  seed  for  next  year’s  crop. 


FriiiJ  Garden. — The  principal  work  here 
is  to  care  for  the  fruit  as  it  ripens,  remove  super¬ 
fluous  growth  and  keep  the  soil  free  of  weeds. 
During  the  abundance  of  each  variety  a  quantity 
should  be  put  up  in  bottles,  or  otherwise  preserved 
for  future  use,  according  to  directions  already  given. 

Blackberries. — Allow  those  for  home  use  to  re¬ 
main  on  the  vines  until  thoroughly  ripe,  but  those 
sent  to  market  must  be  picked  while  firm  enough 
to  carry  safely. 

Currants. — Remove  suckers  and  weak  shoots. 

Dwarf  Trees. — Thin  the  crop  if  there  is  more 
fruit  than  will  develop  well.  Control  the  shape  of 
the  tree  by  pinching  as  heretofore  directed. 

Crapes. — Caterpillars  often  do  mischief  by  cutting 
off  the  end  of  growing  canes  ;  in  these  the  upper 
lateral  may  be  allowed  to  grow  for  a  leader.  Keep 
the  successive  growths  of  the  laterals  pinched  back 
to  one  leaf.  Tie  up  to  the  trellis,  and  do  not  allow 
neighboring  canes  to  become  entangled.  Treat 
mildew  with  sulphur,  as  recommended  last  month. 
If  rot  appears  among  the  berries,  we  know  of  no 
help  for  it.  It  is  best  to  remove  decaying  bunches. 

'Baspberries. — Cut  away  the  old  canes  after  fruit¬ 
ing,  and  encourage  the  growth  of  the  new  ones. 
These  will  fruit  next  year  and  should  have  proper 
attention.  Thin  to  three  to  each  stool,  and  keep  the 
soil  clean,  loose  and  enriched. 

Strawberries. — Beds  set  now  with  plants  which 
have  been  struck  in  pots,  or  taken  up  with  a  ball  of 
earth,  will  become  suflficiently  established  to  bear 
a  fair  crop  next  spring.  Keep  old  beds  well  culti¬ 
vated  and  weeded,  and  have  the  runners  clipped. 


Flower  dardcii  and  L,awn.— The 

burning  heats  of  July  and  August  are  most  dis¬ 
couraging  to  the  florist,  and  many  plants  are  in  a 
state  of  suspended  animation  until  cooler  nights 
and  more  abundant  rains  start  them  into  growth. 
It  is  during  this  time  that  the  value  of  the  plants 
with  variegated  foliage  is  most  apparent,  and  a 
good  selection  of  them  will  keep  up  a  gay  appear¬ 
ance  in  the  grounds  during  the  heated  term. 
Watering  upon  any  extended  scale  is  not  usually 
practicable,  but  the  effects  of  drouth  may  be  greatly 
resisted  by  the  free  use  of  the  hoe  and  rake.  If  it 


is  necessary  to  water  a  plant  to  save  it,  let  the  ap¬ 
plication  be  thorough,  not  an  occasionai  sprinkling. 

Box. — Clip  into  good  shape  early  this  month. 

Bulbs. — If  any  spring  flowering  ones  remain  in 
the  ground,  take  them  up  as  directed  last  month,  i( 
the  leaves  have  withered. 

Climbers. — It  is  a  very  common  mistake  to  make 
the  supports  for  annual  ones  too  frail,  and  tlicy 
break  down  with  the  great  weight  of  foliage,  aided 
by  the  winds.  All  that  are  not  strong  enough 
should  be  braced  before  strong  autumnal  winds 
prostrate  them. 

Dahlias. — Much  of  thesuccess  in  cultivating  these 
depends  upon  proper  tying.  The  stem  has  very 
little  strength  itself  and  the  foliage  is  very  heavy. 
Remove  imperfect  buds  and  all  flowers  as  soon  as 
they  have  lost  their  beauty. 

Euchsias. — Cuttings  made  from  the  new  growth 
will  root  with  the  greatest  ease,  and  make  good 
plants  to  keep  over  winter.  If  any  of  the  more 
tender  kinds  have  lost  their  leaves  from  the  heat  of 
the  sun,  prune  them  and  they  %vill  push  out  fresh 
growth,  and  flower  when  the  w’cather  is  cooler. 

Gi'ass. — Lawns  and  edgings  need  a  continuation 
of  the  care  heretofore  advised.  Root  out  any 
coarse  weeds. 

Oladiolus. — The  broad  leafy  shoots  of  these  are 
easily  prostrated  and  are  difficult  to  bring  back  to 
an  erect  position.  We  prefer  to  keep  them  all  tied 
to  light  stakes,  as  soon  as  they  get  large  enough. 

Hedges. — Give  deciduous  ones  their  summer  clip¬ 
ping  this  month. 

Layers. — Shrubs  and  vines  m.ay  be  increased  by 
layering  the  growth  of  the  present  season,  as  di¬ 
rected  under  Orchard  and  Nursery,  and  in  previous 
numbers.  Many  of  them  grow  readily  from  cut¬ 
tings  of  the  just  hardening  wood. 

Pelargoniums. — Put  in  cuttings  for  a  stock  for 
winter.  Keep  trimmed  in  a  compact  form. 

Potted  Plants. — Do  not  allow  them  to  be  neglected. 
Give  all  the  water  they  need,  and  keep  weeds  out 
of  the  pots  and  insects  from  the  foliage. 

Perennials. — The  seed  of  these  .as  well  as  of  bien¬ 
nials  may  be  sown  now,  and  plants  for  next  year’s 
blooming  be  raised. 

Boses. — Make  layers.  Train  up  the  new  growth 
of  climbers.  Keep  off  insects,  many  of  which  can 
be  dislodged  by  suddenly  jarring  the  bushes.  One 
correspondent  advises  the  use  of  1  lb.  of  copperas 
to  six  gallons  of  water.  The  bushes  to  be  syringed 
with  the  solution. 

Seeds. — The  same  etire  advised  in  the  selection 
and  preservation  of  seeds  in  the  Kitchen  Garden  is 
to  be  observed  with  flowers.  A  knowledge  of  the 
methods  by  which  each  variety  is  dispersed  will  be 
a  guide  to  the  proper  time  for  collecting.  Those 
which  burst  their  seed  pods  suddenlj’,  like  the 
phloxes  and  pansy  will  be  lost,  if  allowed  to  re¬ 
main  too  long.  Such  are  to  be  collected  before  the 
pods  open,  and  placed  under  a  sieve,  where  the 
scattered  seeds  will  be  saved. 

Verbenas. — If  these  do  not  root  .at  the  joints,  peg 
them  down  as  directed  last  month. 

Zinnias. — The  double  variety  has  been  much  im¬ 
proved  by  a  carefui  selection  of  seeds,  and  the  only 
way  to  keep  the  stock  good  is  to  save  seed  from 
flowers  of  the  best  form  and  color. 

Greeii  and  IIot-Moiises.  —  If  new 
structures  are  to  be  built,  or  alterations  or  repairs 
made  to  old  ones,  steps  should  be  taken  to  have 
the  work  finished  before  the  houses  are  needed  for 
the  plants.  Potting  earth,  fuel,  and  all  other  sup¬ 
plies  are  to  be  laid  in  in  good  season.  Preparations 
may  be  made  for  stocking  the  houses  by  starting 
cuttings,  repotting  such  plants  as  need  it,  and 
sowing  seeds.  Very  small  seeds,  such  as  those  of 
calceolarias,  lobelias,  etc.,  need  very  fine  soil  and 
scarcely  .any  covering.  Plants  remaining  in  the 
house  must  not  be  allowed  to  be  burned  by  thesun. 


Cold  Cfi’apery. — Mildew  is  apt  to  appear 
in  warm  damq  weather,  in  which  case  keep  the  air 


236 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


rAtJGner, 


of  tlie  house  as  dry  as  possible,  and  use  sulphur,  as 
directed  last  month.  As  the  fruit  commences  to 
ripen,  discontinue  the  watering.  Sudden  changes 
of  air  will  interfere  with  the  successful  ripening, 
and  must  be  guarded  against,  but  free  ventilation 
is  needed.  After  the  fruit  is  ripe,  the  upper  ven¬ 
tilators  may  be  kept  open  at  night. 


The  AplatT  for  August.— Preparcff 
by  3L  Qiiinby,  by  requeat.—Woway  that  is  in  glass 
boxes,  and  intended  for  market,  should  be  ta¬ 
ken  from  the  hive  now,  before  any  collected 
from  buckwheat  is  added  to  it.  Boxes  only  two- 
thirds  full  of  clover  honey  are  often  worth 
as  much  in  market  as  if  finished  with  buck¬ 
wheat.  This  darkest  honey  being  on  the  outside 
will  make  it  appear  as  if  the  whole  was  filled  with 
it,  and  the  price  will  be  in  accordance  with  the  ap¬ 
parent  qualitj’.  When  to  be  used  at  home,  it  may 
remain  until  finished,  but  all  that  are  not  to  be 
finished  with  buckwheat  should  be  removed  imme¬ 
diately.  Bees  will  gather  honey  from  buckwheat 
through  this  month,  and  in  many  places  swarms, 
(l)articularly  Italins)  will  issue.  When  it  is  desir.a- 
ble  to  increase  colonies  to  the  utmost,  perhaps- it 
is  not  alwa}’s  advisable  to  return  the  bees,  or  part 
of  them  to  the  parent  hive,  as  has  been  recom¬ 
mended.  When  the  movable  comb  hive  is  used, 
they  may  be  hived  and  assisted  with  a  comb  or  two 
from  some  hive  that  has  a  surplus,  and  will  be 
benetitted  by  being  deprived  of  it.  If  the  parent 
hive  can  have  the  queen  cells  cut  out,  and  a  laying 
queen  introduced  in  a  week  after  the  swarm  issues, 
there  need  be  no  doubt  about  its  being  strong 
enough  for  winter.  The  Italians  will  raise  more 
bees  in  the  same  space  of  comb,  and  be  stronger 
from  the  number  raised,  than  the  natives.  It  may 
be  satisfactory  to  the  bees  to  get  the  combs  full  of 
honey  and  brood,  and  have  nothing  further  to  do, 
but  it  is  doubtful  if  such  is  the  best  state  of  things, 
either  for  the  bees  or  their  owner.  Take  out  two 
or  three  combs  where  full  throughout,  and  put  in 
empty  frames,  making  room  near  the  middle  of 
the  hive  for  them.  If  from  unfavorable  weather, 
the  colony  has  not  quite  enough  for  winter,  the 
full  combs  or  part  of  them  may  be  returned  to  the 
hive ;  otherwise  they  may  be  given  to  some  desti- 
tnte  hive  or  appropriated  for  table  use.  When 
bees  can  add  nothing  to  their  stores  from  buck¬ 
wheat,  it  is  probable  that  condemned  colonies  wiil 
furnish  more  honey  now  than  in  September,  the 
usual  time  for  taking  it.  In  favored  localities, 
where  hwi  few  bees  are  kept,  there  might  be  a  gain 
in  leaving  them.  Those  wishing  to  raise  Italian 
queens  after  the  black  drones  are  gone,  and  who 
want  to  preserve  Italian  drones,  should  prepare  for 
it  now,  as  without  special  care  these  drones  are  de¬ 
stroyed  before  the  natives.  First,  render  a  colony 
queenless  and  keep  it  so ;  it  may  be  allowed  to 
raise  queens,  but  they  should  be  removed  before 
laying.  As  soon  as  honey  fails,  feed  daily.  Make 
it  strong  in  drones  by  introducing  to  it  all  the 
sealed  drone  brood  from  the  other  hives.  It  would 
be  well  to  make  the  hive  for  this  purpose  larger 
than  usual,  to  accommodate  more  frames. 


International  Industrial  anti  Agf- 
rlcultural  Exhibition.— Altona,  a  city  of  Schles¬ 
wig-Holstein,  and  situated  almost  as  near  to  Hamburg  as 
Brooklyn  to  New-York,  has,  through  its  most  inlluentiai 
citizens,  put  forth  a  very  attractive  programme  for  a 
grand  exhibition,  to  take  place  in  June,  1866.  An  agent 
has  been  sent  to  this  country  to  induce  a  full  display  of 
American  macliines,  manufactures,  implements,  animais 
etc.  Full  explanations  may  be  gained  by  addressing 
Austin,  Baldwin  &  Co.,  72  Broadway.  Mr.  Marsh,  our 
Consul  at  Altona.  is  earnest  in  forwarding  the  interests 
of  the  commission  who  have  the  management. 

Fair  of  tlie  American  Entstitiite  and 

the  Greeley  Prizes.— The  geeat  fair  of  the  American 
Institute  opens  this  year  Seplember  I2th,  and  lasts  till 
October  19lh.  The  horticultural  exhibition  in  con¬ 
nection  with  it  begins  on  Sept.  I6th.  At  this  the  fruit  in 
competition  for  the  Greely  prizes  will  be  shown.  It  will 
be  remembered  lliat  Mr.  Greeley  offered  $100  for  the  best 
bushel  of  the  best  apples,  $100  for  the  same  quantily  of  the 
best  pea's,  and  $100  for  the  best  6  pounds  of  grapes,  and 


the  prizes  were  not  awarded  last  year.  The  special 
committee  w  bo  have  these  prizes  in  charge,  are  Dr.  J. 

k.  Warder,  Charles  Downing,  - Ferris,  Dr.  1.  M. 

Ward,  Mr.  W.  S.  Carpenter,  Dr,  E.  W.  Sylvester,  P.  B. 
Meade  and  Patrick  Quinn.  The  Institute  has  secured 
the  ample  quarters  where  the  Sanitary  Fair  was  held 
last  year,  on  14th  street,  near  6th  avenue, 

■'  ^  I  C>  »  *  ■— 

0fiB.cial  List  of  the  428  Money  Order  Post 
Of&ees,  July  1,  1865. 

As  a  matter  of  convenience  to  our  readers,  we  publish 
the  Official  list  of  all  the  Post  Offices  w  here  Money  Orders 
may  be  obtained  and  paid.  At  any  one  of  these  offices, 
an  order  for  from  one  to  thirty  dollars  may  be  purchased, 
to  be  paid  at  any  other  one  of  these  offices  named.  The 
cost  is  only  10  cents  for  an  order  for  $10  or  less,  and  20 
cents  for  any  sum  between  $10  and  $30,  For  larger 
sums  two  or  more  orders  may  be  purchased. — This  is  a 
very  great  convenience,  as  the  sum  sent  is  almost  abso¬ 
lutely  secure  against  loss.  Instead  of  sending  money, 
there  is  forwarded  simply  an  order  ptiyable  only  to  the 
person  for  whom  it  is  designed.  If  by  any  chance  an 
order  is  lost,  by  theft,  destruction  of  mail  bags,  etc.,  a 
duplicate  order  is  issued.  Since  our  publication  of  the 
previous  list  of  141  offices,  the  system  has  worked  so 
well  that  these  new  offices  are  established,  and  probably 
thousanils  of  other  offices  will  in  time  be  included.  We 
have  received  a  large  nttmber  of  remittances  in  this  way, 
and  advise  our  subscribers  to  adopt  this  mode  of  setiding 
$5  and  upwards,  where  a  Money  Order  Office  is  conveni¬ 
ent.  For  large  sums  a  draft  on  a  New  York  Bank  is 
preferable.  These  can  be  obtained  quite  cheaply  now, 
from  almost  any  bank  or  good  private  banker  in  any  part 
of  the  country. 

ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  MONEY  ORDER  POST  OFFICES. 

Coiinectlcut.- Bridgeport,  D.anbury,  Derby,  Guilford, 
Hartford,  Litchfield,  Middletown,  New  London,  Norw'ich, 
New  Britain,  New  Milford,  New  Haven,  Norwalk,  Putnanr, 
Rockville,  Thompsonville,  West  Meriden,  Waterbury,  Willi- 
mantic.  West  Killingly. 

Delaware.— Delaware  City,  Dover,  W’ilraington. 
District  Columbia.- W.ashington. 

Ploriela.— Key  West. 

Illinois.— Alton,  Aurora,  Belleville,  Bloomington.  Cairo, 
Canton,  Carlinville,  Centralia,  Champaign,  Chicago,  Danville, 
Decatur,  Dixon,  Elgin,  Freeport.  Galena,  Galesburg,  Geneseo, 
Jacksonville,  Joilet,  Kankakee  Depot,  Lacon,  Macomb, 
Mount  Vernon,  Olney,  Ottawa,  Paris,  Peoria,  Pontiac,  Prince¬ 
ton,  Quincy,  Rockford,  Rock  Island,  Shawneetowu,  Shelby- 
ville,  Springfield,  Sycamore,  Waukegan. 

Indiana.— Attic.a,  Bloomington,  Columbus,  Crawfords- 
ville,  Evansville,  Fort  Wayne,  Green  Castle,  Greensbnrg, 
Goshen,  Huntington,  Indianapolis,  Jeffersonville,  Kokomo, 
Lafayette,  La  Porte,  Lawrenceburg,  Logansport,  Madison, 
Muncie,  New  Albany,  Plymouth,  Princeton,  Rensselaer,  Rich¬ 
mond.  Salem,  South  Bend,  Terre  Haute,  Valparaiso,  Vincen¬ 
nes,  Wabash,  Warsaw. 

Iowa.— Burlington,  Cedar  Rapids,  Council  Bluffs,  D.aveu- 
port,  Des  Moines,  Dubuque,  Iowa  City,  Keokuk,  Lyons, 
Marshalltown,  Mt.  Pleasant,  Muscatine.  Newton,  Oskaloosa, 
Ottumwa,  Sioux  City,  Washington,  Waterloo. 

Kansas.— Atchison,  Ft.Leavenworth,  Lawrence,  Topeka. 
KentucSiy.— Bowling  Green,  Louisville,  Le.xlngton, 
Maysville,  Paducah. 

Louisiana. — New  Orleans. 

Maine.— Augusta,  Bangor,  Bath,  Belfast,  Biddeford, 
Brunswick,  Eastport,  Ellsworth,  Lewi.ston,  Portland,  Rock¬ 
land,  Skowhegan,  Waterville. 

Maryland.— Annapolis,  Baltimore, Cumberland,  Easton, 
Ellicotfs  Mills,  Frederick,  Hagerstown,  Havre  de  Grace, 
Salisbury. 

Massaclinsctts.— Amherst,  Bridgewater,  Boston,  Chic¬ 
opee,  Fall  River,  Fitchburg,  Gloucester,  Greenfield,  Law¬ 
rence,  Lee,  Lowell,  Lynn,  Milford,  Natick,  New  Bedford, 
Newburyport,  Northampton,  Pittsfield,  Plymouth,  Salem, 
Springfield,  Taunton,  Westfield,  Worcester. 

Michigan.— Adrian.  Allegan,  Ann  Arbor,  Big  Rapids, 
Cold  Water,  Detroit,  East  Saginaw,  Flint,  Grand  Rapids, 
Hillsdale,  Jackson,  Kalamazoo,  Lansing,  Marshall,  Monroe, 
Niles,  Pontiac,  Port  Huron. 

Minnesota.- Faribault.  Hastings,  Mankato,  Red  Wing, 
Rochester,  St.  Cloud,  St.  Paul,  Winona. 

Mississippi.— Vicksburg. 

Missouri.— Jefferson  Barracks,  Jefferson  City,  Kansas 
City,  Pilot  Knob,  Richmond,  Kolia,  St.  Charles,  St.  Joseph, 
St,  Louis. 

Ncbra.ska  Territory.— Nebraska  City.  Omaha  City. 
New  Hampshire.- Claremont,  Concord,  Dover,  Exe¬ 
ter,  Great  Falls,  Hanover,  Keene,  i.ancaster,  Manchester, 
Nashua,  Portsmouth. 

New  Jersey.- Bridgeton,  Burlington,  Freehold,  Jersey 
City,  Morristown,  Newark,  New  Brunswick,  Newton,  Pater¬ 
son,  Plainfield,  Princeton,  Trenton. 

New  York.— Albany,  Albion,  Auburn,  B.atavla,  Bath, 
Binghampton,  Brooklyn,  Buffalo.  Canandaigua,  Cooperstown, 
Cortlandt  Village,  Delhi,  Dunkirk,  Eliz.ahethtown,  Elmira, 
Fort  Hamilton,  Geneseo,  Hudson.  Ithaca.  Jamestown,  Kings¬ 
ton,  Little  Falls,  Lockport,  Lyons,  .Malone,  Newburgh,  New- 
York,  Norwich,  Ogdensbiirg,  Glean,  Oswego,  Owego,  Penn 
Van,  Plattshurg,  Port  Jervis.  Poughkeepsie,  River  Head, 
Rochester,  Saratoga  Springs,  Schenectady,  Seneca  Falls,  Syra¬ 


cuse,  Troy.  Utica,  Warsaw,  Watertown,  Wellsville.  West 
Point,  Whitehall,  Yonkers. 

North  Carolina.— Newborn. 

Ohio, — Akron,  Athens,  Beliefontalne,  Bucyrns,  C:im. 
bridge,  Chilllcothe,  Cincinnati,  Circleville,  Cleveland,  Co¬ 
lumbus,  Dayton.  Defiance,  Delaware,  Finley,  Fremont,  Gal- 
lipolis,  Hamilton,  flillsborongh,  Ironton,  Jackson,  Jefferson, 
Kenton,  Lancaster,  Lima,  McConnellsville,  Mansfield,  Mari¬ 
etta,  Marion,  Massilon,  Medina,  Miamisville,  Mt.  Vernon, 
Newark,  New  Philadelphia,  Norwalk,  Oberlin,  Painesville, 
Piqua,  Portsmouth.  Ravenna,  Ripley,  Salem,  Sandusky,  Steu¬ 
benville,  Tiffin,  Toledo,  Uiibana,  Van  Wert,  Warren,  Woos¬ 
ter.  Xenia,  Zanesville. 

Peitnsylvairia.— Allentown,  Altoona,  Bedford,  Bello- 
fonte,  Carlisle,  Chambersburgh,  Chester,  Danville,  Easton, 
Erie,  Franklin,  Greensburg,  Harrisburg,  Honesdale,  Johns¬ 
town,  Kittanning,  Lancaster,  Lebanon,  Lewisburg,  Lewis- 
town,  Lock  Haven,  Meadville,  New  C.TStle,  Norristown, 
Philadelphia,  Pittsburg,  Pottsville,  Reading,  Scranton,  Sus¬ 
quehanna  Depot,  Towanda,  Warren,  Washington.  Wellsbor- 
ough.  West  Chester,  Williamsport,  York. 

Rhode  Island.— Bristol,  Newport,  Portsmouth  Grove, 
Providence,  Westerly,  IVoonsocket  Falls. 

South  Carolina.— Port  Royal. 

Tennessee.- Ch.attanooga,  Memphis,  Nashville. 

Vermont.— Beunington.  Brandon,  Brattleborough,  Bur¬ 
lington,  Middlebury,  Montpelier,  Rutland,  St.  Albans,  St. 
Johnsbury,  Springfield,  Windsor,  Woodstock. 

Virginia.— Alex.andria,  Old  Point  Comfort,  Norfolk. 

West  Virginia.— Clarksburg,  Harper's  Ferry,  Jlartins- 
burg,  Parkersburg,  Wheeling. 

Wisconsin.— Beloit,  Black  River  Falls,  Darlington, 
Eau  Claire,  Fond  du  Lac,  Green  Baj',  Hudson,  La  Crosse, 
Madison,  Manitowoc,  Milwaukee,  Oshkosh,  Portage  City, 
Prairie  du  Chien,  Prescott,  Racine,  Sheboygan,  Sparta, 
Stevens  Point,  Waukesha. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


TIae  Aelvevtising;  l®ag-es  this  month 
present  many  features  of  special  interest  lo  all,  and  will 
well  repay  perusal.  It  is  satisfactory  to  the  readers  to 
know  that  none  but  parties  believed  to  be  entirely  reliable, 
are  permitted  to  insert  their  business  cards  in  the  Agri~ 
culturist— {hose  who  will  perform  what  they  promise.  It 
is  equally  pleasing  to  advertisers  to  know  that  our  read¬ 
ers  are  a  live  class,  who  fake  note  of  what  is  going  on  in 
the  business  wot.d,  and  hence  we  repeat  the  request 
heretofore  made,  that  parties  writing  to  advertisers  shall 
mention  in  their  communications  that  advertisements 
were  seen  in  this  journal.  It  will  also  show  that  they 
rightfully  expect  prompt  returns  and  fair  dealing,  and 
will  thus  be  mutually  advantageous. 

Af^ricmltasral  Instruction  at  Yale 
College.— In  connection  with  the  Sheffield  Scientific 
School,  there  is  a  special  Agricultural  Department,  which 
receives  the  benefit  of  the  United  States  grant  under  the 
Agricultural  College  act.  Instruction  in  this  department 
consists  in  two  courses  of  study.  The  first  is  called  the 
“full  course,”  and  occupifis  three  years,  to  enter  which, 
applicants  pass  an  examination  in  the  elements  of  a  good 
education— the  standard  being  high,  especially  as  regards 
a  knowledge  of  mathematics.  The  second,  or  “shorter 
course”  is  arranged  especially  to  accomodate  young 
farmers,  and  occupies  seven  months,  from  about  the 
middle  (12th  this  year)  of  September  lo  the  middle  o. 
April,  during  which  time  one  may  attend  a  selection  ol 
the  most  useful  exercises  of  the  full  course,  viz. ;  in¬ 
struction  in  Practical  Agriculture,  Agricultural  Chemis¬ 
try,  and  Physiology,  Agricultural  Zoology,  Physical  Geo¬ 
graphy,  Forestry,  etc.  For  full  information  apply  to 
Prof.  Geo.  J.  Brush,  Yale  College,  New  Haven,  Conn. 

Soldliers’  — Among  the  many  good 

things  the  Sanitary  Commission  has  done  is  the  establish 
ment  of  a  Protective  War-Claim  Association,  of  which 
General  Scott  is  President,  and  its  Executive  Committee 
composed  of  citizens  of  undoubted  and  unselfish  patriot¬ 
ism.  Its  objects,  as  briefly  expressed  in  its  business  cani, 
*‘are  to  secure  to  soldiers  and  sailors,  and  their  families, 
claims  for  Pension,  Pay,  Bounty,  and  Prize  Money, 
without  charge,  and  to  give  them  advice  and  information.” 
We  have  before  us  the  report  of  the  xvorkings  of  this 
Association  for  six  months,  ending  June  SCth,  which 
shows  that  3,179  claims  have  been  filed,  of  v/hich  1.210 
have  been  paid,  amounting  to  $199,036.39.  The  office  of 
the  Association  is  No.  35  Chambers  street,  N.  Y.  Cit) , 
and  Henry  Greenfield  is  Secretarj'.  .4s  the  Sir;:;!'.:-' 
Commission  has  been  from  the  beginning  purely  rviowu 
in  its  character,  we  give  this  account  ol  one  of  itidepait- 
ments  as  of  interest  to  persons  in  all  parts  of  the  Lmon 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURIST. 


237 


Stra.w'bcrry  Qsiei’ies. — “J.  A.  J.,”  Indian- 
i^olis,  Ind.  Strawberry  seeds  should  be  sown  as  soon  as 
ripe.  Fuller’s  Illuslrated  Strawberry  Culturist  is  the  best 
work  on  the  subject...  Miss  B.  S.  Payson.  Tlie  pinch¬ 
ing  oif  of  runners  should  be  continued  if  fruit  is  wanted, 
but  if  more  plants  are  needed,  let  the  runners  grow  and 

strike  root _ W.  A.  Walker,  R.  I.  Pots  would  be  likely 

to  be  broken  if  left  out  all  winter.  T^ie  plants  can  be  taken 
«jp  in  spring  with  a  bail  of  earth  around  the  roots  without 

disturbing  them  much _ E.  C.  Sohn,  Knox  Co.,  III. 

The  fact  that  one  of  your  plants  did  not  bear  this  spring, 
is  no  proof  that  it  is  not  of  the  right  kind.  Plants  set  in 
the  fall  do  not  always  show  fruit  in  the  spring.  There 
could  not  be  any  mistake  with  the  “Agriculturist”  sent 
from  this  office,  as  no  other  plants  grow  near  them  — V. 
A.  Pearsall.  If  your  plants  are  really  staminate,  there  is 
no  way  to  make  them  fruit.  Dig  them  under  and  plant 
kinds  with  perfect  flowers. 

Strawberries  in  Eng-Saii<l. — It  is  s.aid 
that  the  strawberry  crop  has  been  almost  a  total  failure 
in  England  this  year.  This  is  in  part  attributed  to  the 
extensive  planting  of  new  varieties  that  had  not  been 
sufficiently  tested.  Sir  Charles  Napier,  a  variety  which 
very  rapidly  acquired  a  reputation,  was  largely  planted 
and  has  proved  so  worthless,  that  we  have  accounts  of 
its  being  plowed  under  by  the  100  acres.  Sir  Harry  and 
Grove  End  Scarlet  are  mentioned  among  the  sorts  which 
have  done  well  the  present  year. 

Tbe  "^Vilson  Early  Blaclcberry. — 

This  comparatively  new  variety  has  been  sent  us  by  John 
S.  Collins,  of  Moorestown,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J.  Judg¬ 
ing  from  the  fruiting  branches  exhibited  (we  have  not 
seen  it  growing),  it  would  appear  to  be  very  productive, 
Mr.  C.  says  more  so  than  tbe  New  Rochelle.  The  fruit 
is  of  very  good  size  and  well  flavored.  We  received  the 
first  sample  on  July  5th,  and  another  a  week  later,  at 
which  time  the  crop  seemed  to  be  at  its  hight.  The  whole 
crop  is  said  to  be  yielded  in  about  three  weeks.  If  it 
proves  to  be  as  claimed,  a  week  or  more  earlier  than  the 
New  Rochelle,  it  will  prove  a  valuable  variety. 

Earge  Currants. — A  few  days  ago  we  had 
some  currants  from  a  distinguished  horticulturist,  who 
dislikes  to  see  his  name  in  print,  which  exceeded  in  size 
any  we  have  ever  seen.  They  were  of  the  Cherry 
variety,  and  appropriately  so  called,  as  the  largest  berry 
measured  lyi  inches  in  circumference. 

The  Currant  Worm.— J.  P.  Bogardus,  of 
Sullivan  Co.,  N.  Y.,  says  :  "  A  small  green  worm  com¬ 
pletely  strips  the  leaves  (of  currant  bushes)  as  if  by 
magic,”  and  that  “children  have  died  in  consequence  of 
eating  the  fruit  from  the  bushes  thus  affected,  it  is  sup¬ 
posed.  Two  died  in  one  family  about  the  same  time, 
after  eating  the  fruit.”  We  don’t  think  that  the  worms 
had  anything  to  do  with  the  death  of  the  children.  We 
have  already  noticed  the  use  of  white  hellebore  for  the 
currant  worm,  and  have  had  accounts  of  its  efficacy. 

Tbe  Iona  an<l  Israella  drapes. — 

The  interest  which  attaches  to  these  comparatively  new 
varieties  has  led  us  to  look  after  their  progress  during  the 
growing  season.  Our  own  vines  not  being  old  enough  to 
fruit,  vve  have  observed  them  in  the  grounds  of  several 
cultivators,  and  made  a  special  visit  to  Iona  Island  for 
the  purpose  of  seeing  these  varieties.  The  Iona,  espe¬ 
cially,  on  the  grounds  of  Doct.  Grant,  is  remarkably  pro¬ 
ductive,  the  bunches  being  very  large,  and  giving  a  pro¬ 
mise  of  being  more  compact  than  has  been  the  case  with 
fruit  shown  from  younger  vines.  We  have  already  spoken 
of  the  high  quality  of  the  fruit  of  this  variety,  and  can 
now  only  say  that  the  vines  appear  as  vigorous  and  as 
fruitful  as  those  of  any  kind  whatever.  The  specimens 
of  Israella  at  the  Island  were  looking  finely,  though  not 
BO  full  of  fruit  as  a  vine  we  saw  near  Newburgh.  As 
there  has  been  some  discussion  about  the  means  taken  to 
lipen  this  variety,  it  is  but  just  to  say  that  we  saw  no 
Indications  of  any  thing  of  the  kind,  and  have  no  doubt 
that  the  story  about  their  being  forced  was  a  sheer  fabri¬ 
cation.  The  propagating  operations  at  Iona  are  carried 
on  upon  an  extensive  scale,  and  will  repay  a  visit  to  those 
Interested  in  grape  culture.  Wo  understand  that  all 
lovers  of  horticulture  are  invited  to  make  a  visit  to  Iona 
Island,  which  they  can  reach  from  the  Peekskill  station 
of  the  Hudson  River  R.  R.,  where  boats  may  always  be 
had  to  convey  them  across. 

The  Mildew  on  the  Grape. — Along  the 
Hudson  the  unusually  cool  nights  succeeding  warm  days 
have  brought  on  the  mildew  to  an  unprecedented  extent. 
In  several  large  collections  it  has  made  sad  havoc,  the 
leaves  in  almost  every  case,  and  the  fruit  in  many  in¬ 
stances,  being  attacked  by  it.  The  Delaware,  usually  so 
free  from  all  defects,  is,  as  far  as  the  leaves  are  concerned, 


as  b.ad  .as  any.  Several  of  Rogers’  Hybrids  have  the  fruit 
entirely  ruined.  The  leaves  of  even  such  a  hardy  sort  as 
Hartford  Proliffc  were  not  exempt,  and  the  Iona  and 
Israella  were  somewhat  touched,  but  nothing  iike  as 
badly  as  the  Delaware.  These  observations  were  made 
in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  Newburgh,  and  we  do  not 
know  how  far  the  trouble  extends  along  the  river  beyond 
that  locality.  This  visitation  was  so  sudden  and  unex¬ 
pected,  that  none  of  tlie  cultivators  were  prepared  to  use 
sulphur  upon  its  first  appearance.  The  vines  around 
New  York  City  are  also  badly  troubled  by  mildew. 

Tlirips  os*  Erittca's. — This  pest  seems  to 
be  on  the  increase  and  is  really  an  annoyance  to  fruit 
growers.  It  is  a  little  whitish  insect  that  hops  about  in 
the  most  lively  manner,  and  is  about  as  difficult  to  catch 
as  a  flea.  We  wish  some  entomologist  would  give  us  an 
account  of  its  habits.  We  only  know  that  it  has  the  habit 
of  attacking  the  leaves  of  almost  everything,  from  a  grape 
vine  to  an  elm  tree.  Tlie  leaves  injured  by  it  seem  to 
loose  their  vitality  and  turn  pale.  One  cultivator  savs 
that  he  has  kept  them  off  by  the  use  of  sulphur,  v\hile 
others  say  that  they  have  not  found  this,  or  any  other  re¬ 
medies  of  any  avail.  What  is  the  insect,  a  “  tlirip,”  or  a 
“  fritter,”  for  it  is  called  by  both  names,  and  how'  can  it 
be  disposed  of? 

ISorticiiltsirssl  ISeg'isfer. — It  will  be 
seen  by  advertisement  that  W.  C.  Flagg,  Secretary  of 
the  Illinois  State  Horticultural  Society,  proposes  to 
publish  a  register  of  all  persons  in  any  manner  connected 
with  the  nursery  and  fruit  business.  work  of  this  kind 
thoroughly  done,  will  be  a  very  useful  one,  and  as  a  hint 
towards  making  it  more  complete,  we  would  suggest  that 
he  adds  a  list  of  those  journals  that  are  wholly  or  partial¬ 
ly  devoted  to  horticulture. 

Tom«So  Seed. — “A  Subscriber”  in  West 
Nottingham.  Md..  wishes  to  know  how  to  save  tomato 
seeds.  The  great  difficulty  with  these  seeds  is  due  to  the 
fact  that  tliey  are  covered  with  hairs  as  well  as  a  very 
strong  mucilage  which  is  very  difficult  to  separate  b 
any  ordinary  washing.  The  tomatoes  may  be  put  into  a 
vessel  of  water  and  the  fruit  allowed  to  decay  there  until 
the  seeds  will  wash  clean,  or  the  pulp  containing  the 
seeds  may  be  removed  and  placed  in  a  dish,  until  fer¬ 
mentation  has  so  changed  the  mucilage  that  it  can  be 
washed  out.  Of  course  fruit  for  seed  should  be  selected 
from  the  earliest  and  most  prolific  plants,  and  the  best 
shaped  specimens  only  be  taken. 

Cal»1»as:e  Seed. — “  W.  B.  G  Fountain, 
Ind.  We  have  frequently  stated  that  cabbage  seed 
should  not  be  raised  from  stumps.  On  the  contrary,  the 
best  heads  should  be  preserved  w  ith  tlie  greatest  care,  and 
only  the  strongest  shoots  allowed  to  grow  and  bear  seed. 

Horticultural  ISssmlmg'S. — “  A  Sub¬ 
scriber”  in  Bond  Co.,  Ill.,  wishes  us  to  warn  people 
against  tree  peddlers  who  sell  “  Self-pruning  Grape 
Vines,”  and  plum  trees  grafted  on  a  stock  which  does  not 
allow  the  plum  to  start  until  the  curculio  is  gone.  If 
there  are  any  people  in  Bond  Co.,  Ill.,  or  any  w  liere  else 
who  ean  be  made  to  believe  any  such  stuff  as  he  describes, 
we  fear  that  they  don’t  take  the  Agriculturist  and  our 
warning  will  not  reach  them.  If  there  is  anything  that  is 
a  nuisance  in  the  West,  it  is  peddlers,  and  those  who  sell 
nursery  stock  are  the  worst  of  the  lot. 

Forcig’ji  Intellig'cnce. — Under  the  head 
of  “Foreign  Intelligence,”  the  Gardeners’  Monthly  re¬ 
produces  articles  from  the  European  horticultural  periodi¬ 
cals.  We  noticed  in  the  July  number  of  that  excellent 
serial  an  article  on  the  “Ornamental  varieties  of  the 
Beech, ’’which  we  thought  read  like  something  w  e  had  seen 
before.  Upon  referringto  our  file  for  September,  IS6.3,  we 
found  it  was  one  of  our  own  articles  with  a  few  verbal 
ehanges  to  adapt  it  to  England,  and  it  had  been  appropri¬ 
ated  by  the  (English)  Gardeners’  Weekly  as  original. 
The  Country  Gentleman  also  thought  the  article  wortliy 
of  being  reproduced  here,  and  it  also  copied  it  from  tlie 
English  paper.  There  is  notliing  like  foreign  travel  to  im¬ 
prove  individuals,  and  we  suppose  that  an  article  is  all 
the  better  for  crossing  the  ocean. 

IVTiere  to  Buy  Eaiid  and  Settle. — 

East,  West  and  South  ?  Day  after  day  the  post  brings  us 
requests  for  information,  where  persons  should  buy  land 
and  go  to  farming,  from  every  part  of  the  country.  Re¬ 
turning  soldiers,  worn-out  tradesmen,  and  mechanics, 
seek  in  country  life  health  and  happiness  which  they 
find  so  small  a  share  of  in  the  city.  Our  friends  must 
realize  that  these  are  among  the  hardest  questions  that 
can  be  proposed. — Were  we  going  to  “pull  up  stakes” 
ourselves,  it  would  take  us  long  to  decide  where  to  go. 
Within  30  miles  of  New  York  there  are  many  very  at¬ 
tractive  spots.  The  banks  of  the  Hudson  and  the  ad¬ 


joining  country  furnish  romance  and  picturesqueness 
of  scenery  unrivaled,  and  at’ the  same  time  well  adapted 
to  farming,  espeeially  to  grazing  and  tlie  hardier  kinds  of 
fruits.  New  Jersey  lands  arc  of  all  qualities  and  condi¬ 
tions,  from  swampy  to  sandy,  from  mountainous  to  flat. 
Delaware  is  like  Jersey,  except  the  mountains.  Mary 
land  has  a  great  variety  of  land  ;  old  tobacco  farms,  well- 
worn,  and  forest  land,  as  yet  untouched,  some  very  cheap, 
others  dear  at  any  price.  And  much  the  same  may  be 
said  of  the  whole  South,  reading  cotton,  or  corn,  for 
tobacco,  for  the  more  southern  States.  The  South  has 
many  attractions  to  enterprising  good  principled  men,  and 
cheap  lands  are  the  least  of  these.  It  is  one  of  the  most 
beautiful  and  richest  countries  of  the  world.  The  pro¬ 
ductions  are  most  varied,  including  a  multitude  of  fruits 
and  plants,  of  which  Northern  iieople  know  nothing,  be¬ 
sides  figs,  oranges,  pecan  nuts,  etc.,  which  we  prize.  The 
country  has  never  been  half  developed,  and  white 
men  can  bear  the  climate  and  work  all  day  in  the  sun, 
almost  all  the  year  perfectly  well,  as  is  demonstrated 
every  year  by  the  foreign  mechanics  in  New  Orleans  and 
other  cities.  “  Society  ”  there  may  not  welcome  northern 
men,  who  ought  to  go  in  colonies,  so  as  to  form  a  society 
of  their  own  and  to  be  independent  of  those  who  would 
maintain  the  principles  which  have  cursed  the  land  and 
the  n.ation.  Treated  as  reasonable  men  and  women,  the 
negroes  will  be  faithful  laborers  and  slatinch  friends, 
a  farmer  might  find  some  of  them  bungling,  slow,  lazy, 
and  untrusty  ;  but  what  hands  are  not?  Working  among 
them,  taking  an  interest  in  them  and  their  welfare,  he 
would  see  less  of  this,  and  secure  faithful  and  cheap  labor 

Tlie  l>ea1li  of  Sii-  .losepls  I*axton. — 

This  di.stinguished  horticulturist  died  in  England  on  the 
8th  of  June  last,  at  the  age  of  64.  He  began  life  as  gar 
dener’s  apprentice  and  was  afterwards  connected  with 
some  of  the  best  horticultural  establishments  in  England. 
He  is  most  widely  known  as  the  designer  of  the  first 
Crystal  Palace,  built  for  the  first  International  Exhibition 
at  London,  for  which  service  he  was  knighted.  He  was 
a  contributor  to  horticultural  and  botanical  periodicals, 
and  the  author  of  a  very  useful  botanical  dictionary. 

Good.  Sori^o  Macliiasery. — The  large 
number  of  those  who  are  just  entering  the  business  ot 
making  syrup  from  sorgo,  justifies  our  calling  attention 
to  the  superior  mills  and  evaporator  made  by  Blymyer, 
Bates  &  Day,  and  the  Clark  Sorgo  Machine  Co.  adver¬ 
tised  in  our  business  columns.  Sucees.sful  trial  for  years 
has  given  their  apparatus  a  deserved  reputation  for 
superior  excellence  ;  we  can  heartily  recommend  them. 

Tliat  Big'  ISstll  Frog  advertised  for  in 
our  columns  is  honestly  wanted  by  a  reliable  man,  who 
will  pay  the  premiums  offered  as  soon  as  the  winners 
shall  be  known.  Boys  living  in  the  vic'vnity  of  ponds,  or 
swamps  may  find  frog-hunting  profitable,  especially  if 
they  can  secure  any  of  extra  size.  The  exhibition  will  no 
doubt  be  a  unique  and  funny  aff;iir. 

ISeport  of  llie  B^epartment  of  Agri¬ 
culture. — “W  H.  G.”  and  many  others.  We  know  of 
no  way  of  procuring  this  except  by  making  application  to 
the  Department.  The  present  Commissioner  is  Isaac 
New  ton — we  wish  it  was’nt,  but  he  is  the  man  to  write  to, 
and  he  at  present  lives  in  Wasliington,  D.  C. 

Difference  in  Clanrning. — J.  E.  Wildey, 
Lake  Co.,  Ill.,  desires  us  to  explain  why  milk  needs 
churning,  where  he  lives,  nearly  twice  as  long,  before 
butter  appears,  as  it  does  at  the  East.  If  he  will  prove 
to  us  th.at  such  is  the  fact,  we  will  try  to  give  a  satis  • 
factory  explanation. 

Tlie  liest  Churn. — "We  h.ave  repeated  in¬ 
quiries  as  to  “  which  is  the  best  churn  ?  ”  We  cannot 
answer  this  question  positively,  because  we  have  nevei 
tested  them  ail.  But  the  writer  has  no  hesitation  in  stating 
that,  after  having  used  the  Brinkerhoff  churn  (advertised 
page  227,  July  number)  for  three  years,  and  testing  It 
thoroughly,  he  thinks  it  one  of  the  best,  s.ot  the  best. 

Cutting  off"  Teats* — “  F.  O.  W.”  desires 
us  to  answer  through  the  Agriculturist  what  to  do  with 
a  double  teat  on  one  of  his  heifers.  Twist  a  piece  of 
small  wire  around  it  sufficiently  tight,  to  ob-struct  all  cir¬ 
culation.  In  10  or  12  days  the  teat  w  ill  drop  off,  and  new 
skin  will  form  over  the  scar.  This  should  not  be  done, 
however,  when  a  cow  gives  milk,  as  tlie  wound  would  be 
kept  from  heating  over,  by  the  flow  of  the  milk,  before  a 
scab  could  form  over  it. 

Fruit  .Bars. — C.  H.  Howard,  Cook  Co.,  HI., 
Potter  &  Bodincs’  Jars  were  mentioned  because  we  have 
tried  them  ami  found  them  valuable.  We  have  no  doubt 
the  kind  you  refer  to,  as  well  as  others,  which  are  tight 
when  closed,  and  are  easily  opened,  will  prove  just  as  good. 


338 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[AuQiwr, 


Remedy  for  Ijcaky  'I'eats.— As  soon 
as  the  cow  is  milked  clean,  wrap  a  rag  about  one 
Inch  wide  twice  around  each  teat,  an  inch  from  each  tip, 
and  tie  it  on  with  woolen  yarn,  w  hich  is  more  elastic  tlian 
linen  or  cotton.  They  sliould  be  tied  in  a  bow  knot  suffi¬ 
ciently  tight  to  prevent  the  milk  from  coming  down  to 
the  end  of  tire  teats,  but  not  tight  enough  to  produce  pain 
by  stopping  the  circulation  of  the  blood.  The  rags  are 
of  course  removed  when  the  cow  is  milked.  Light  In¬ 
dia  rubber  bands  slipped  over  each  teat  are  much  better 
and  more  convenient  than  strings,  and  may  be  obtained 
at  any  stationery  store.  They  may  be  made  by  cutting 
narrow  slices  off*  from  the  end  of  rubber  tubes,  or  by 
cutting  rings  out  of  a  piece  of  old-fashioned  rubber  slioe. 
If  they  clasp  the  teats  too  tightly,  shave  them  thinner. 
A  joiner's  gouge  is  the  best  tool  to  cut  out  such  rings  with. 
After  a  few  weeks  the  teats  will  be  so  contracted  that 
they  will  not  leak. 

Bougilitoia  WBsitc  Wiacat.— A  corre¬ 
spondent  whose  name  was  mentioned  in  the  Agriculturist 
In  connection  with  the  Boughton  w  heat,  receives  so  many 
questions  by  letter,  that  lie  thinks  his  statements  must  be 
of  general  value  to  our  readers.  For  ourselves  we  only 
know  it  to  have  a  very  good  reputation  vvlierever  we 
have  seen  it  grow — ranking  equal  to  the  Soule,  Weeks, 
and  other  good  varieties.  Our  correspondent  says  :  “1st, 
The  Boughton  smooth  eared  wheat  ripens  earlier  tlian 
any  wheat  I  know  of— nearly,  if  not  quite  a  week  earlier 
than  the  red  Mediter.anean.  In  1863,  I  had  engaged 
my  three  acre  lot,  to  be  reaped  on  the  27th  of  June  (fully 
ripe),  but  Gen.  Jenkins,  and  then  Gen.  Lee  vi.siled  us 
with  about  90,000  Southerners,  and  hence  it  was  md 
reaped  until  the  18th  of  July.  Still,  it  shelled  out  very 
little.  The  yield  was  25K  bushels  to  tlie  acre.  Stood 
rather  thin.  Second,  Freezing  out.  Tlie  winter  of  1S6.3 — 
’64  was  a  hard  one  on  wheat.  Col.  McClure  and  oilier 
growers  had  light  crops  in  consequence  of  freezing  out, 
but  mine  was  belter  than  ever — the  yield  from  2^  acres 
was  60>^  bushels  in  weight  (63  bushels  measure)  ;  the 
grain  plump,  the  flour  from  it  the  best  I  ever  had,  whilst 
an  adjoining  lot  of  red  Mediterranean,  sowed  on  the  same 
day,  was  greatly  damaged  by  the  fly,  my  Boughton,  fit 
for  reaping  7  days  before,  was  untouched  by  that  enemy. 
To  the  query :  I  can  think  of  only  one  reason  why  my 
Boughton  did  not  freeze  out,  namely  :  I  had  top-dressed  it 
the  fall  before.” — [Probably  with  fine  yard  manure.  Ed.] 

Cure  Ibr  Insect  Stimg-s. — A  French 
newspaper,  the  Sud-Est,  of  Grenoble,  publishes  a  cure 
for  insect  slings  which  it  says  “is  not  only  as  efficacious 
as  an  alkaline  application,  but  is  preferable  to  this 
and  many  other  remedies  in  being  always  at  hand  when 
wanted.  It  consists  in  the  immediate  application  upon  the 
wound,  sting  or  bite,  of  a  small  quantity  of  the  yellowish 
secretion  formed  in  the  ear,  known  as  ceramen  or  ear- 
wax.  The  faculty  may  scout  this  as  an  old  woman’s  an¬ 
tidote  ;  but  it  is  said  to  prove  successful  even 
against  the  bites  of  poisonous  insects  which  not  unfre- 
quently  occasion  death.  The  discoverer  of  the  remedy 
states  that  the  venom  in  the  bite  or  sting  is  completely 
neutralized  by  this  simple  means.”  It  is  easily  tested. 

Canker  worms  {Fhalina  verna(a). — Great 
devastations  were  wrought  by  the  canker  worm  in  New 
England  during  the  past  months  of  May  and  June. 
In  making  two  trips  into  Connecticut,  we  passed,  we  may 
almost  say,  through  hundreds  of  miles  of  orchards  and 
rows  of  elms,  which  were  at  one  time  hung  with  fine 
webs  that  glistened  in  the  morning  sun,  and  suspended 
countless  numbers  of  little  naked  wriggling  worms,  and 
at  another  the  same  trees  presented  an  appearance  as  if 
a  fire  had  swept  over  them,  scorching  and  destroying 
every  green  thing.  The  apple  and  elm  trees  at  about 
the  middle  of  June  had  no  more  leaves,  and  cast 
scarcely  more  shade  than  in  mid-winter,  the  strong  ribs 
and  veins  of  the  leaves  being  all  that  the  worms  had 
left.  They  have  destroyed  the  fruit  as  well,  for  deprived 
of  the  sustenance  derived  from  the  foliage  it  has  dropped. 
Many  different  contrivances  for  defense  against  this 
pest  have  been  tried  ,  all  depending  on  the  same  funda¬ 
mental  fact,  viz:  that  the  female  moths  that  lay  the 
eggs  from  which  the  worms  are  hatched,  come  from  the 
ground,  ascend  the  trees  by  crawling  up  the  trunks,  and 
being  wingless  they  must  crawl.  We  hear  the  greatest 
dissalisfiaction  and  lack  of  confidence  expressed  in  regard 
to  these  protectors,  but  so  far  as  we  can  learn  where  they 
have  proved  ineffective  (as  they  have  we  are  free  to  say 
in  the  great  majority  of  cases),  tliey  were  either  not  put 
on  early  enougli,  or  they  were  not  well  applied. 

REMEDIES  FOR  THE  EVIL.— The  fact  that  the  females 
must  crawl  up  the  trees  to  deposit  their  eggs,  places  the 
multiplication  of  the  In.^oct  almost  entirely  within  the 
power  of  man.  No  man  ever  saw  the  winged  male  carry 
Mb  companion  over  any  obstacle,  or  into  the  tree.  Impos- 
Blble  obstacles  at e ;  Isl,  Leaden  gutters  surrounding  the 


trunks,  filled  with  oil.  A  cross  section  of  a  gutter  is  like 
a  letter  c  inverted  (thus  0).  The  oil  is  held  in  the  lower 
p.art  and  the  upper  part  forms,  a  roof  to  keep  out  the 
rain  :  2d,  Cas  Iron  troughs  similar  to  the  leaden  ones  (pat¬ 
ented)  ;  .3th,  freshly  tarred  bands  (upon  cloth  or  paper,) 
about  the  trunks,  which  are  not  effective  after  the  tar 
hardens,  or  in  cold  weatlier ;  4th,  A  (patented)  inverted 
metalic  trough,  a  section  of  which  is  somewhat  like  a 
letter  y  inverted,  (thus  X.)  suspended  and  attached  to  the 
tree  by  a  cloth  band  on  the  upper  end  ,  5th,  An  inverted 
glass-trough,  or  gutter  (patented)  attached  to  the  tree  in 
a  similar  way  ;  6th,  A  strip  of  tin,  two  or  three  inches 
long,  to  the  lower  edge  of  which  a  strip  of  cloth  is 
fastened,  the  ends  of  the  tin  being  cut  slanting,  the  upper 
one  lapping,  and  the  tin  being  smeared  with  some  fluid, 
offensive  to  the  insect  (the  form  patented,  the  fluid  not). 
These  plans  have  all  so  far  as  we  know  stopped  the 
ascent  of  the  insects ;  the  3d  pian  is  not  to  be  recom¬ 
mended.  The  61h  is  probably  the  cheapest. — We  have 
little  doubt  that  cloth  or  tough  paper,  or  such  as  is  made 
impervious  to  water  by  oiling,  smeared  with  some  viscous 
non-drying  substance,  like  tar  and  molasses,  or  something 
of  the  nature  of  bird-lime,  that  which  the  female  moth 
could  not  pass,  would  be  effective,  and  cheaper  than  any¬ 
thing  else,  quite  a  consideration  in  large  orchards. 

EARLY  APPLICATION. — The  application  of  any  preventive 
must  be  made  as  early  as  the  first  of  September,  for  the 
moths  begin  to  ascend  as  soon  as  the  nights  are  frosty  ; 
and  keep  it  up  till  the  earth  is  frozen  hard.  In  the  spring 
they  commence  again  as  soon  as  the  top  of  the  ground 
becomes  soft  from  the  ice  thawing  ,  and  they  may  be  seen 
ascending  every  mild  evening  for  6  or  8  weeks.  A  good 
deal  of  labor  attends  faithfully  preventing  the  ascent  of 
these  creatures,  but  it  may  be  done,  and  we  may  sav-e 
our  trees  and  fruit,  and  it  will  be  a  paying  job  in  the  end. 

Silk  Rsaisiisjsf  im  Frawce. — 

The  experiments  (says  La  Patrie,  of  Paris.)  made  in  the 
raising  of  silk  worms  at  the  Imperial  farm  at  Vincennes, 
are  now  in  full  operation.  A  great  many  breeds  of  the 
ordinary  mulberry  silk  worm  are  being  raised  there  with 
the  view  of  ascertaining  the  causes  of  the  epidemic  raging 
among  these  little  animals,  and  important  experiments 
are  made  in  acclimating  various  new  species,  such  as 
live  on  the  leaves  of  the  oak,  the  wild  plum  tree,  the 
castor  oil  plant  iRicinus),  ailanthus,  and  other  trees.  At 
the  present  time  the  ailanthus  worm  is  perfectly  accli¬ 
mated  ;  they  are  being  snccessfullv  raised  and  the  num¬ 
ber  of  eggs  of  this  species  produced  at  the  Imperial  Seri- 
cultural  establishment  is  insufficient  to  supply  the  de¬ 
mand  ;  fortunately,  however,  there  are  several  worm- 
raisers  in  the  other  parts  of  France,  as  well  as  in  Switz¬ 
erland,  w  ho  are  able  to  furnish  large  quantities  of  them. 

Am  IBIlls. — “  Ward  ”  has  several  colonies 
of  ants  in  his  yard,  and  wishes  to  know  how  to  get  rid  of 
them.  We  wish  we  could  tell  him.  We  once  fought  the 
inhabitants  of  two  hills  for  several  weeks,  with  every- 
thing  we  could  think  of,  and  they  rather  flourished  under 
the  treatment.  This  was  before  benzine  was  in  common 
use,  and  were  wo  troubled  now,  should  make  an  experi¬ 
ment  with  that,  by  pouring  a  quantity  into  the  holes,  and 
covering  them  up  with  earth,  so  as  to  confine  the  ants  in 
the  vapor  as  long  as  possible.  One  correspondent  re¬ 
ported  that  he  routed  a  large  colony  by  burning  fire 
crackers  on  the  hill  one  4th  of  July, 


Mow  to  ItaliiinitEe  an  Apiary  in  any 
kind  of  Hives. — Bidwell  Brothers,  of  St.  Paul,  Minn., 
write  :  “  When  an  Italian  Queen  has  been  in  a  hive  10 
days,  all  the  eggs  and  brood  from  which  a  Queen  can  be 
made  are  Italian ;  then  change  this  hive  with  one  contain¬ 
ing  a  black  queen,  drive  out  both  stocks  of  bees  with 
queens,  shaking  the  bees  containing  the  black  queen  in 
front  of  the  one  which  contained  the  Italian,  and  as  they 
go  in  catch  and  kill  the  black  queen.  The  bees  will  then 
raise  an  Italian  queen  from  the  Italian  brood.  Next  shake 
the  bees  with  the  Italian  queen  in  front  of  the  hive  which 
previously  contained  the  black  queen,  and  in  10  days  re¬ 
peat  the  operation  with  another  until  all  are  Italianized.” 


Are  Itsilian  ISecs  Ifiarcly  ? — Bidwell 
Bros.,  of  Minnesota,  says  in  answer  to  this  question  : 
“  We  wintered  28  stocks  of  bees  in  the  open  air,  which 
included  21  of  Italians.  They  ate  less  and  came  out  the 
strongest  of  the  lot.” 

Bkot^pkmic  Mamires. — It  is  generally  be¬ 
lieved  that  of  all  the  necessary  ingredients  of  plants  de¬ 
rived  from  the  soil,  none  is  commonly  so  easily  exhausted, 
or  withdrawn  by  successive  cropping,  as  Phosphoric  acid. 
The  great  source  of  supply  of  this  substance  is  bones— 
which  consist  largely  of  phosphate  of  lime.  And  on 
all  exhausted  or  worn-out  land,  manures  of  which  bones 
or  phosphate  of  lime  form  a  part,  in  the  shape  of  bone- 
dust,  or  composts  containing  it,  superphosphate  of  lime, 


etc.,  are  productive  of  the  most  lasting  benefit.  Peruvi¬ 
an  guano  contains  a  considerable  quantity  of  phosphate 
of  lime  (26  or  28  per  cent.),  but  proportionally  more  am¬ 
monia  (15  to  17  per  cent.),  which  stimulates  the  growth 
of  crops  so  that  an  Increased  quantity  of  both  bone-earth 
and  other  inorganic,  or  earthy  manorial  substances  are 
needed  by  the  crops  in  connection  with  its  use  on  ex¬ 
hausted  land.  There  have  been  various  deposits  found, 
of  the  nature  of  guano, containing  far  less  ammonia  and 
more  phosphates.  Some  of  these  are  very  valuable  as 
manures  for  more  or  less  worn  out  and  exhausted  land, 
containing  as  they  do  the  phosphates  naturally  in  a  state 
of  fine  powder,  and  readily  assimilable.  Of  this  charac¬ 
ter  is  the  so  called  , Bolivian  guano,  the  best  samples  of 
which  contain  some  60  per  cent,  of  phosphates,  with 
between  1  and  2  per  cent,  of  ammonia.  It  must  come 
chiefly  in  competition  with  bone-dust,  ordinary  grades  of 
which  contain  about  45  per  cent,  of  phosphates,  «ith 
about  3  per  cent,  of  ammonia,  or  its  equivalent.  The 
best  qualities  of  bone  meal  or  bone  turnings  and  filings 
are  much  richer  both  in  ammonia  and  the  phosphates, 
(4)f  per  cent,  of  ammonia— 57Ji  per  cent,  phosphates.) 

SSsiBif^Ies— Mow  to  B^ay  anti  Nail 
Tliem  ? — “O.  H.  E.,  of  Portsmouth,  N.  H.,  says  he 
sends  us  “  a  chip  for  our  Basket,”  we  hope  for  more 
from  the  same  source.  In  the  sawing  of  shingles  from 
round  “bolts”  or  small  trees  6  or  8  inches  diameter,  the 
shingles  are  “slab-ways,”  or  have  a  piece  of  the  heart  in 
them,  or  have  more  sap  wood  on  one  side  than  on  the 
other,  and  the  annual  rings  lap  one  upon  the  otlier.  If 
the  sap  side  of  the  shingle  is  exposed  to  the  weather  and 
the  heart  side  is  placed  next  the  roof,  it  will  not  curl  or 
warp  up  ;  also  if  the  nails  are  placed  one  inch  each  side 
of  a  line  running  through  the  center  of  the  shingle,  es¬ 
pecially  each  side  of  the  heart  piece,  if  there  is  one,  (the 
usual  manner  being  one  inch  from  the  edge,  however 
wide  the  shingle  may  be,)  the  shrinkage  will  be  from 
each  edge  toward  the  center.  I  have  seen  roofs  shingled 
with  Fir,  Hemlock,  Spruce,  Cedar,  and  Sapling-pine,  re¬ 
tained  in  their  place,  and  without  a  split,  and  also  shin¬ 
gled  in  the  old  manner  with  every  other  one  split  from 
slirinkage,  making  a  crack  directly  over  the  joint  in  the 
lower  course,  and  under  the  joint  in  the  next  course 
above,  causing  aleak.  We  know  our  plan  works  well 
and  will  be  useful  to  many. 

“N®.  17  McrcSaanats  ExcSiiaMge.” — 
During  the  past  three  or  four  years  we  have  received 
from  time  to  time  hundreds  of  circuiars  sent  to  our  sub¬ 
scribers,  and  by  tliem  forwarded  to  us,  dated  “No.  17 
Merchants  Exchange,”  although  professedly  emanating 
from  many  different  cities  and  towns.  Often  they  bear 
the  name  of  a  place  where  “the  oldest  inhabitant”  nev¬ 
er  heard  of  the  existence  of  a  “  Merchants  Exchange.” 
Most  or  all  of  these  are  swindling  schemes  of  bogus 
lotteries  {all  lotteries  are  unsafe  money  traps)  to  tempt 
the  unthinking.  Give  a  wide  berth  to  all  letters  and  cir¬ 
culars  dated  “  17  Merchants  Exchange,”  especially  if 
they  offer  great  inducements  for  investing  money. 

Mow  to  Set  a.  Steel  I'l-ap.— Take  a 
common  steel  trap  with  a  stiff  spring,  but  one  which 
springs  easily,  cover  the  trap  with  a  piece  of  cotton  cloth, 
sewing  it  to  the  “  pane  ”  or  treadpiece.  Upon  this  fasten 
the  bait  so  that  it  can  not  be  taken  off  without  springing 
the  trap.  Set  the  trap  near  the  rats’  runs.  J.  Amaden. 
Defiance  Co.,  0.,  says  of  this  way  :  “After  trying  every 
thing  else  I  fixed  my  trap  according  to  the  above  plan 
and  caught  9  rats  in  one  hour.” 

Xlie  IjiTe  Oalc. — J.  McGregor.  It  is  of  no 
use  to  try  to  start  the  acorns  of  the  live  oak  in  Iowa,  as 
the  climate  is  much  too  cold  for  it. 


A  ft-ood  Yield  of  Potatoes.— R.  Coates 
of  Attleborough,  C.  W.,  writes,  that  one  of  his  neighbors 
planted,  last  spring,  a  bushel  of  Prince  Alberts,  cut  into 
small  sets,  and  in  the  fall  harvested  98  busliels.  The 
hand  had  been  used  for  a  sheep  pasture  for  several  years, 
and  the  planting  was  done  on  the  recently  turned  sod. 

Flag  I-icelc. — “  L.  A.  L.”  has  received  some 
seeds  of  this  from  the  Agricultural  Department  at  VVash- 
ington,  and  wishes  to  know  whether  it  is  useful  or  or¬ 
namental.  It  is  a  garden  plant  of  the  onion  kind,  and 
is  used  in  soups  and  stews.  An  account  and  figure  was 
given  in  April  of  last  year. 

Mricd  Cnrrjinfs.— J.  J.  T.,  Sullivan,  Ind., 
asks,  if  the  dried  currants  of  the  shops  are  the  common 
red  currants,  and  how  they  are  prepared.  The  imported 
currant  is  not  a  currant  at  all,  but  a  very  small  grape  from 
the  South  of  Europe.  Being  from  Corinth,  they  wers 
called  Corinths,  which  finally  was  changed  into  currants. 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


339 


Xlie  “SpriMsr  House”  of  tlie  )I*rai» 
rlie. — D.  Kilpatrick,  of  Des  Moines  Co.,  Iowa,  writes  to 
express  his  appreciation  of  the  article  on  making  clieese 
fi<  m  few  cows,  ami  says  :  “  We  think  that  article  alone 
wf-rth  a  year’s  subscription.  We  cannot  make  butter,  or 
keep  it  weli  when  made  for  want  of  the  “spring  house,” 
so  familiar  to  many  of  your  readers,  where  “  He  sendeth 
the  springs  to  the  vallies  which  run  among  the  hills.”  A 
spring  is  a  very  rare  thing  on  the  Prairies.  We  can  make 
cheese  without  difficulty  on  the  plan  there  given,  by  keep¬ 
ing  the  curd  till  enough  is  obtained  to  fill  the  hoop,  by 
hanging  it  in  a  tucket  in  the  well.  By  the  way  you  may 
fell  your  readers  in  like  circumstances,  that  they  can 
iiave  sweet,  cool,  delicious  milk  every  day  in  the  same 
way.  Get  a  good  can,  or  a  pail  with  a  close  fitting  lid 
(we  have  used  a  coffee  boiler  to  good  advantage),  fill  it 
with  fresh  milk  and  hang  it  in  the  well  with  a  strong 
cord,  lowering  it  near  to  the  water,  and  using  great  care 
not  to  spill  any  in  the  water,  or  you  will  spoil  your  w  ell. 
Just  at  meal  time  draw  it  up  (stirring  whatever  cream  is 
on  it  well  through,  it  don’t  hurt  it  a  bit),  and  if  there  are 
any  children  about,  you  will  wonder  how  soon  it  will 
disappear  to  their  satisfaction  and  yours.” 

IPcrmeistesl  SwiHS. — A  “Subscriber”  asks  if 
“swili  for  fattening  hogs  will  lose  or  gain  any  thing  by 
allowing  it  to  ferment?”  Swill  properly  so  called  can 
never  gain  any  thing  by  fermentation,  for  if  “  fermenta¬ 
tion”  be  allowed  to  go  on  long  enough  all  swill  will 
putrify.  Many  good  farmers  allow  their  swill  to  fer¬ 
ment  to  a  slight  extent  before  feeding,  in  order  to  give  it 
greater  uniformity  of  character,  and,  in  case  meal  of  any 
kind  is  added  to  the  “  house  slops,”  to  take  the  place  in 
a  measure  of  cooking,  which  is  inconvenient  in  the  sum¬ 
mer  time.  When  this  is  practised,  however,  swill 
should  be  kept  in  several  different  vessels,  so  that  the 
feed  may  be  fermented  uniformly  from  day  to  day. 


Fine  Orapes. — Those  who  visited  the  straw¬ 
berry  exhibition  of  the  American  Institute  last  June  saw 
a  collection  of  exotic  grapes,  the  like  of  which  is  seldom 
exhibited.  A  large  number  of  varieties  were  shown,  the 
berries  in  each  bunch  being  as  near  alike  as  if  they  had 
been  cast  in  the  same  mould.  This  splendid  display  was 
made  by  Mr.  John  Ellis  of  the  Fox  Meadow  Gardens, 
Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y.,  whose  extensive  graperies  fur¬ 
nish  the  New  York  market  with  a  large  share  of  this  de- 
l-cious,  though  costly  fruit. 

Xmlningf  in  Oraperies, — “Amateur.” 
Four  plan  shows  the  alternate  renewal  system,  which  is 
very  difficult  to  carry  out.  Better  study  Chorlton,  or 
some  other  authority  for  the  best  methods,  as  we  have 
not  space  to  illustrate  them. 

Hale’s  Early  Peacli. — Isaac  Pullen,  Esq., 
of  Hightstown,  N.  J.,  has  sent  us  fine  specimens  of  this 
variety  from  his  orchard  houses.  This  is  a  favorite  sort 
with  Mr.  Pullen,  who  finds  it  at  least  two  weeks  earlier 
than  any  other.  Its  quality  is  excellent,  and  it  is  as  hand¬ 
some  as  it  is  good. 


was  doubtless  often  excercised  in  opposition  to  his  in¬ 
terests  as  publisher.  In  the  revision  of  Downing’s  Lands¬ 
cape  Gardening,  many  of  the  finest  sketches  were  made 
and  put  tipon  the  engraver’s  block  by  his  own  hand.  The 
close  confinement  of  the  book  business  brought  on 
hemorrhage  of  the  lungs,  and  he  was  forced  to  relinquish 
it  in  1859.  He  afterwards  travelled  in  California,  Central 
America,  West  Indies,  Minnesota,  and  Europe.  Several 
of  his  observations  in  Central  America  were  ptiblished  in 
the  Agriculturist,  illustrated  by  his  own  pencil,  and  while 
he  was  in  business,  he  was  a  frequent  contributor  to  our 
columns,  especially  upon  insects  injurious  to  horticulture. 
Mr.  Moore  returned  from  Europe  in  the  autumn  of  1864, 
and  died  in  April  hast.  We  have  delayed  a  notice  of  the 
death  of  Mr.  Moore  for  the  lack  of  precise  data,  and  now 
give  this  too  brief  tribute  to  the  memory  of  a  noble,  un¬ 
selfish  pure-hearted  friend. 

ISiicIsmisistcr,  the  founder, 
editor  and  publisher  of  the  Massachusetts  Ploughman, 
died  at  his  home  in  Framingham,  Mass.,  at  the  age  of  82 
years.  He  was  educated  at  Harvard  College,  became  a 
lawyer,  but  subsequently  gave  up  this  profession  for  that 
of  agriculture,  and  a  few  year’s  after  (in  1S4I),  in  connec¬ 
tion  whh  his  son,  established  the  Ploughman  in  Boston, 
which  has  ever  since  held  a  prominent  place  among  Am¬ 
erican  Agricultural  Journals.  Mr.  Buckminster  retired 
from  the  active  editorship  of  the  paper  in  1802.  His  ac¬ 
quaintance  among  farmers  and  agriculturists  was  very 
extensive,  and  he  will  be  long  remembered  and  sincerely 
mourned  as  an  earnest,  honest,  useful  man. 

Flaists  WametS. — S.  A.  Hunter,  Alleghany 
Co.,  Pa. — The  common  Blue-flag,  Iris  versicolor...  H. 
Humphreys,  Davis  Co.,  Iowa.  Some  kind  of  Juncus  or 
Rush,  but  quite  too  young  to  determine  the  species.... 

B.  B.  Herrick.  Negundo  aceroides,  the  Ash  leaved  Ma¬ 
ple,  also  called  Box-cider.  Sugar  is  sometimes  made 
from  this  species.  ...M.  R.  A.,  York  Co.,  Me.  No.  I  is 
Calopogon  pulcheltus,  one  of  the  most  beautiful  of  our 
native  orchids.  No.  2  is  the  very  common  Cinquefoil 
or  Five-finger,  Potentilla  Canadensis, 

Ag'ricjtlSHral  and  ISorticiallnral 
Fairs,— If  those  who  have  charge  of  the  preliminary 
work  in  arranging  for  exhibitions  the  coming  autumn  will 
send  us,  before  Aug.  10th,  notice  of  place,  date,  and 
name  of  corresponding  secretary,  or  business  manager, 
they  will  aid  us  in  issuing  our  annual  list  in  September, 
and  receive  the  thanks  of  the  editors. 

mack  Mnot.— We  have  numerous  inquirers 
respecting  this,  and  have  had  the  experience  of  only  one 
person  in  treating  it.  Mr.  A.  D.  Brown,  of  Mercer  Co., 
N.  J.,  states  that  he  knows  the  following  remedy  to  be 
effectual.  A  tablespoonful  of  chloride  of  Lime  (Bleach¬ 
ing  Powder)  is  mixed  with  a  quart  of  water,  and  after  it 
has  stood,  occasionally  shaking,  for  a  few  hours  it  is  ready 
for  use.  The  knot  is  pared  even  with  the  healthy  bark, 
and  the  solution  -applied  to  the  wound.  Mr.  B.  says  :  “  I 
will  guarantee  that  the  Black-knot  wilhnot  appear  in  that 
place  again.”  A  simple  remedy  and  easily  tried. 


Catalogmes,  etc.,  Kecelvcd. — William 
Parry  of  Pomona  Garden  and  Nursery,  Cinnaminson,  N. 
J.,  sends  his  price  list  for  the  fall  of  1865.  Mr.  P.  has  the 
Philadelphia  Raspberry  as  a  speciality.... We  are  in¬ 
debted  to  Geo.  M.  Beeler,  Secretaiy,  for  the  Transactions 
of  the  Indiana  Horticultural  Society  at  its  fourth  annual 
meeting.  The  Transactions  of  the  Worcester  Co.  (Mass.) 
Horticultural  Society,  from  1857  to  1864,  have  been  sent 
by  its  Secretary,  Edward  W.  Lincoln  —  C.  S.  De  Witt, 
Montreal,  sends  us  Hind’s  Essay  on  the  Insects  and 
Diseases  injurious  to  Wheat  Crops,  a  prize  essay  publish¬ 
ed  in  1857  for  distribution  in  Canada  at  public  expense. 

Augustus  O.  Moore.— Every  one  having 
a  collection  of  American  agricultural  or  horticultural 
books,  will  find  upon  one  or  more  of  them  the  imprint  of 
A.  O.  Moore  &  Co.  Had  Mr.  Moore  been  solely  a  book 
publisher,  a  notice  of  him  would  scarcely  have  interested 
our  readers,  but  as  he  was  thoroughly  identified  with 
their  pursuits,  it  seems  proper  to  give  more  than  a  brief 
mention  of  his  life  and  work.  Augustus  Olcott  Moore 
was  born  in  Columbus,  Ga.,  in  1822,  and  removed  at  an 
early  age,  with  his  parents,  to  Ohio,  in  which  State,  at  the 
age  of  19,  he  purchased  a  farm  which  he  carried  on  for 
four  or  five  years.  He  afterwards  went  into  the  banking 
business  in  Cincinnati,  where  he  remained  for  several 
years.  Being  devoted  to  art,  he  left  mercantile  life  after 
several  year’s  experience  in  it.  and  gave  his  time  to 
painting.  Though  he  never  ranked  himself  as  an  artist, 
he  jiossfcssed  decided  talent  in  art,  and  had  it  not  been  for 
his  great  modesty  would  liave  been  known  as  an  artist. 
In  1853,  Mr.  Moore  came  to  N.  Y.  City  and  engaged  in 
the  publishing  business,  which  he  continued  until  1859. 
As  a  publisher  he  was  noted  for  his  sympathy  and  co¬ 
operation  with  literary  men  and  artists— a  trait  which 


Xlae  Xen-lined  Fotato  SSeetle. — We 
have  received  from  A.  S.  Runyon,  Putnam  Co.,  Mo.,  as 
well  as  from  others  in  different  parts  of  the  West,  speci¬ 
mens  of  an  insect  which  Is  very  destructive  to  the  potato 
crops.  The  larva,  or  grub  is  represented  in  fig.  1.  It  is  of 
a  yellow  color  with  black 
dots.  The  perfect  insect, 
given  in  fig.  2,  is  of  a  pale 
yellow  color,  marked  with 
ten  black  lines,  five  on  each 
wing  cover.  Both  these  en- 


Fig.  1. 


gravings  are  of  twice  the  natural  size,  and  give  a  sufficient¬ 
ly  good  representation  of  the  insect  to  enable  it  lo  be  recog¬ 
nized.  Those  wishing  a  detailed  description  are  referred 
to  Doct.  Fitch’s  article  in  the  Transactions  of  the  N.  Y. 
State  Agricultural  Society  for  1863,  p.  796.  The  female 
deposits  her  eggs  upon  the  underside  of  the  leaves,  and  the 
brood  is  hatched  in  3  or  4  days,  ready  to  commence  their 
depredations,  and  if  not  checked, 
soon  destroy  every  vestige  of  vine. 

The  insects  fall  very  readily  w  hen  the 
plants  are  disturbed,  and  it  has  been 
recommended  to  catch  them  in  pans 
containing  hot  water.  A  writer  in 
the  Kansas  Farmer  states  that  by 
timely  attention  the  crop  may  be 
saved.  He  finds  it  inconvenient  to 
renew  the  w.ater  as  fast  as  it  cools, 
and  uses  instead,  cold  water  with  a 
thin  stratum  of  turpentine  on  the  surface.  The  insects, 
in  dropping  into  the  water  pass  through  the  tur¬ 
pentine  and  are  killed  by  it.  Probably  benzine,  such 
as  is  used  by  painters,  would  answer  in  place  of  turpen¬ 
tine,  and  be  at  the  same  time  much  cheaper. 


l&oot-prunira^  Ilyacintlis.— M,  Vasin, 
of  Fi  ance,  finds  that  by  cutting  the  roots  of  hyacinths 
grown  in  water  to  within  about  an  inch  and  a  half  of  the 
bulb,  the  bloom  is  much  finer.  It  is  done  when  the  leaves 
are  well  developed  and  before  the  flower  spike  has 
protruded  itself  above  them. 

Harniim’s  latest  (wot  last)  Hisplaj. 

Barnum’s  Museum  gave  on  Thursday,  July  18th,  an  ex¬ 
hibition  which  completely  exhausted  its  resources.  In 
other  words,  this  curiosity  shop,  which  was  known,  by 
name  at  least,  from  one  end  of  the  land  to  the  other,  is 
destroyed  by  fire,  and  all  its  natural  crrriosilies,  relics, 
antiquities,  etc,,  are  gone.  I’he  collection,  aside  from 
much  that  w-as  trivial,  contained  a  great  deal  of  real 
value,  and  no  one  could  visit  it  without  being  instructed, 
and  in  this  view  it  is  a  national  loss.  Mr.  Barnum,  how¬ 
ever,  is  not  a  man  to  be  set  back  by  the  loss  of  a  museum, 
or  two,  and  is  preparing  to  start  a  new  one  already,  be- 
foie  the  stones  of  the  old  one  are  cold,  and  he  calls  upon 
all  who  have  natural  or  other  curiosities,  suitable  to  be 
placed  in  such  an  institution,  to  communicate  with  him. 


The  German  Edition  of  the  Agriculturist- 
Reduction  of  Price. 


It  gives  the  publisher  pleasure  to  announce  that  the 
reduction  in  the  expenses  attending  the  preparation  of 
the  German  edition  of  this  journal  has  been  sucl  ,  that  he 
has  decided  to  receive  subscriptions  at  the  same  rates 
with  the  English  edition.  This  edition  has  never  been 
conducted  at  a  profit — but  very  much  the  contrary. 
Nevertheless— being  fully  of  the  opinion  that  it  ought  to 
pay— and  assured  on  every  hand  thal  it  has  been  and  is 
doing  a  great  deal  of  good  among  German  farmers  and 
others,  it  has  been  continued.  Now  with  the  improve¬ 
ment  in  the  times,  the  disbanding  of  the  army-  and  the  re¬ 
turn  to  peaceful  industries  of  oursoidiers,  he  is  confident, 
that  w'ith  a  reduction  of  the  price,  a  large  addition  to  the 
subscription  list  may  be  secured.  The  agricultural  and 
horticultural  portions  of  the  Agriculturist  are  well  ti'ans- 
lated,  and  besides,  a  special  department  is  edited  by  Hon. 
F.  Muench,  of  Missouri,  (well  known  throughout  the 
Country  by  his  Norn  de  Plume  “  Far  West,”)  which  adds 
much  to  the  value  and  interest  of  this  edition. 


$300.00  for  a  Barn  Plan. 


One  of  the  subscribers  to  the  Agriculturist  is  about  to 
erect  Farm  Buildings,  and  wants  a  plan.  To  secure  one 
he  authorizes  us  to  offer  three  hundred  dollars  ($300)  in 
prizes,  as  follows : 

$150  For  the  best  plan. 

$100  for  the  second  best  plan. 

$30  for  the  third  best  plan. 

The  plans  must  be  submitted  to  a  committee  to  be 
announced  in  the  September  number,  on  or  before  the 
first  Monday  in  October.  The  plan  must  be  for  the  ac¬ 
commodation  of  a  dairy  of  20  cows,  2  yoke  of  oxen,  6 
horses,  with  young  animals  to  keep  up  the  stock,  100 
sheep,  20  hogs,  and  300  poultry.  The  building  or  build¬ 
ings  must  be  of  wood,  and  calculated  for  a  level  farm. 
The  plans  should  be  carefully  drawn  to  a  scale.  Work¬ 
ing  plans  and  specifications  are  not  now  desired ;  but  full 
explanations  of  every  valuable  feature,  materials  ueed, 
in  general,  and  every  thing  essential  to  be  known  by  an 
architect  or  builder  to  enable  him  to  prepare  working 
plans,  should  be  furnished.  The  plans  will  become  the 
property  of  the  gentleman  making  this  offer,  and  a  selec¬ 
tion  will  be  published  in  the  American  Agriculturist, 
In  addition  a  very  liberal  sum  will  be  paid  for  the  full 
working  drawings  and  specifications  of  the  plan  decided 
upon  after  the  prizes  are  awarded.  And  any  new  and 
valuable  ideas  or  suggestions  furnished,  which  may  b« 
adopted,  will  meet  with  appropriate  recognition. 


340 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST, 


[August, 


Grain  Cradles. 


Grain  cradles  will  always  be  needed,  even  if 
horse  reapers  are  used  to  cut  nearly  the  %vhole 
crop.  It  is  important  for  all  to  know  what  con¬ 
stitutes  a  good  cradle,  how  to  put  it  in  order, 
and  howto  use  it,  so  as  to  cut  grain  and  lay  it 
in  a  swath  in  a  neat  and  workmanlike  manner. 


rig.  1. — PKOPEB  FORM  OF  CRADLE  SCYTHE. 

The  form  of  the  scythe  is  to  be  noted.  A  very 
straight  scythe  is  quite  as  objectionable  as 
one  that  has  too  much  curvature.  When  it 
is  too  straight  on  the  cutting  edge,  it  will  cut  too 
squarely  across  the  standing  straws;  whereas 
the  cut  should  be  made  in  a  drawing  or  sliding 
manner,  and  the  fingers  must  of  necessity  be 
correspondingly  straight.  The  illustration  here¬ 
with  given,  figure  1,  represents  a  cradle  scythe 
of  a  good  form.  It  will  be  seen  that  the  cutting 
edge  from  a  to  b,  about  one  foot  in  length,  is  the 
arc  of  one  circle;  and  the  other  part,  from  b  to 
c,  is  the  arc  of  another  circle  of  the  same  size,  but 
in  a  different  position.  We  have  found  by  meas¬ 
uring,  that  these  circles  are  about  ten  feet  in  di¬ 
ameter,  and  that  the  distance  from  d  in  the  dot¬ 
ted  line  to  e,  w'hen  a  scythe  is  four  feet  long,  is 
about  2$  inches.  A  cradle  scythe  of  this  shape 
works  well,  if  it  is  properly  hung  on  the  snath. 

The  question  is  frequently  asked  why  a  cradle 
scythe  is  made  broader  from  the  back  to  the 
cutting  edge,  than  a  grass  scythe  ?  The  object 
of  this  is  twofold ;  first  is  to  support  the  grain 
after  it  is  cut  olf,  and  second  to  furnish  ample 
room  for  the  straw  to  slide  back  from  the  cut¬ 
ting  edge  against  the  fingers,  after  it  has  been 
cut  off.  If  a  scythe,  no  wider  than  a  grass 
scythe,  is  attached  to  a  cradle,  as  soon  as  the 
space  from  the  fingers  to  the  cutting  edge  is 
filled  with  straw,  the  scythe  can  not  cut  off  any 
more  straw;  therefore,  as  the  cradle  is  “full,’’ 
it  must  slide  over  the  rest  of  the  clip. 

If  the  fingers  do  not  correspond  with  the 
curve  of  the  scythe,  a  cradle  will  not  work  well, 
even  if  the  scythe  is  made  according  to  the  most 
perfect  pattern.  Figure  2  represents  a  scythe 
of  the  same  form  as  fig.  1.  The  object  of  it  is 
to  show  the  relative  length  and  curvature  of 
the  first  finger  of  the  cradle,  when  compared 
with  the  form  of  the  scythe.  The  inside  of  the 
finger  should  extend  at  least  two  inches  beyond 
the  back  of  the  scythe,  and  it  is  best  to  have 
the  finger  from  one  to  two  inches  shorter  than 
the  scythe.  The  small  end  should  stand  over 
the  point  of  the  scythe,  as  represented  in  fig.  2, 
and  from  one  to  two  inches  above  it.  If  the 
first  finger  rests  hard  on  the  scythe,  it  some¬ 
times  prevents  the  grain  discharging  freely 


cradle  does  not  gather  all  the  grain  that  is  cut 
off,  some  of  the  fingers  are  out  too  far,  or  are 
too  short.  Sometimes  every  finger  stands  exact¬ 
ly  in  its  most  proper  position  and  the  cradle 
does  not  gather  all  the  grain.  This  can  be  ob¬ 
viated  in  two  ways;  first,  by  using  a  shorter 
scythe ;  or  second,  by  dulling  about  two  inches 
of  the  cutting  edge  at  the  point.  Sometimes 
the  scythe  and  low¬ 
er  finger  are  all 
right,  but  the  other 

fingers  are  so  short, 
' — .  °  ’ 

that  the  cradle  does 

not  gather  all  the 
grain  the  scythe  cuts 
off.  This  difficulty  can  be  obviated  in  no  other 
way  than  by  attaching  a  scythe  2  or  3  inches 
shorter,  and  cutting  off  the  lower  finger  to  cor¬ 
respond  with  the  scythe,  as  shown  by  fig.  2,  and 
to  be  also  of  the  correct  proportional  length 
with  the  other  fingers.  Fingers  may  be  “  too 
crooked,”  or  too  much  curved  near  the  points. 
It  is  a  common  occurrence  to  see  cradle  fingers 
like  a  sleigh  runner — having  nearly  all  the 
curvature  within  12  to  20  inches  of  the  ends. 
Such  cradles  never  work  well,  as  they  carry 
most  of  the  grain,  after  it  is  cut  off,  near  the 
forward  part  of  the  cradle,  w’hich  causes  it  to 
work  hard,  and  to  hang  too  heavily  on  the 
point,  as  well  as  to  hold  on  too  much,  when  it 
is  being  laid  in  a  swath. 


Fig.  3.— PROPER  POSITION  OF  FINGER. 

when  the  cradle  is  m  use.  The  point  of  the 
first  finger  should  always  stand  as  far  back  as 
possible,  and  not  catch  any  straws  beyond 
the  scythe.  When  some  straws  are  pulled  down 
and  not  cut  off,  it  shows  that  some  of  the  fingers 
stand  out  too  far.  On  the  contrary,  when  the 


Dr.  W.  H.  Niles,  sends  a  statement  with  some 
questions  about  the  mechanical  powers  involved 
in  a  common  woodman’s  expedient  to  make  a 
tree  fall  where  he  wishes  it  to,  which,  though 
intended  for  our  problem  column,  contains  a 
valuable  practical  hint,  so  we  insert  it  here. 

The  questions  will  tax  the  mathe¬ 
matics  of  some  older  heads  than 
might  find  them  W’ere  they  on  the 
children’s  page. — “The  woodman 
often  finds  it  necessary  to  fell  a 
tree  in  an  opposite  direction  to  that 
toward  which  it  leans.  To  do  this 
he  places  a  stiff  pole,  A,  B,  against 
the  tree  and  makes  the  foot  im¬ 
movable  by  driving  a  stake,  he  then  places 
another  pole,  (7,  D,  a  little  shorter  than  the  first 
in  like  manner  against  the  tree — the  centre  of 
this  he  has  weakened  by  chopping,  so  that  it 
will  bend  easily.  He  now  cuts  the  tree  nearly 
off  at  the  stump,  when  by  bringing  the  centre 


of  the  pole,  (7,  D,  down  a  few  inches  at  E,  and 
then  lifting  with  his  shoulder  until  the  pole  is 
straightened,  the  tree  is  moved  in  the  opposite 
direction.  The  end  of  the  pole.  A,  B,  is  now 
crowded  down  the  trunk  so  as  to  hold  what  he 
has  gained.  By  repeating  the  operation  the  top 
of  the  tree  is  thrown  beyond  the  base,  and  the 
tree  falls  where  he  wishes  to  have  it. 

Questions. — Suppose  the  pole,  (7,  D,  is  ten  feet 
long,  and  a  force  100  lbs.  is  exerted  at  what 
power  is  exerted  against  the  tree  at  C. — 1st. 
When  the  centre  of  the  pole  at  E^  is  6  inches 
from  a  straight  line  ? — 2nd.  When  it  is  five  inch¬ 
es  from  a  straight  line? — 3d.  When  it  is  four 
inches  from  a  straight  line? — 4th.  When  it  is 
three  inches  from  a  straight  line? — 5th.  When 
it  is  two  inches  from  a  straight  line? — 6th, 
When  it  is  one  inch  from  a  straight  line? — and 
finally,  which  of  the  mechanical  powers  has 
been  thus  employed  ?” 


Salting  Stock,  and  Salting  Hay. 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  animal  econ¬ 
omy  requires  salt.  The  natural  and  universal 
desire  for  it,  the  wide-spread  supply  of  it  by  the 
hand  of  Providence,  and  the  good  effects  of  its 
moderate  use,  demonstrate  this.  It  operates 
both  as  a  tonic  and  a  gentle  laxative ;  it  regu¬ 
lates  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and  gives  an  edge 
to  the  appetite.  Still,  animals  may  take  it  to 
excess,  and  hurt  themselves  when  they  get 
access  to  it  after  long  deprivation.  It  is  the  fa¬ 
vorite  practice  of  some  farmers  to  salt  their 
stock  regularly  once  in  so  many  days,  giving 
them  always  a  fixed  quantit}^  This  generally 
works  well.  Others  prefer  to  keep  a  supply  al¬ 
ways  within  reach  of  their  cattle,  so  that  they 
can  go  and  satisfy  their  natural  cravings  for  it 
whenever  they  choose,  reasonably  supposing  it 
as  safe  to  do  so  as  to  allow  stock  to  drink  at 
pleasure  from  a  running  stream.  In  regard  to 
salting  hay  at  the  time  of  harvest  in  order  to 
prevent  heating  and  moulding,  in  case  the  hay 
is  not  thoroughly  cured,  it  is  most  important 
not  to  over-salt,  as  evil  effects  may  accrue  to  the 
stock.  Six  quarts  of  salt  to  the  ton,  evenly  dis¬ 
tributed,  is  sufficient  for  the  greenest,  and  not 
too  much  for  the  animals.  Salt,  as  commonly 
thrown  upon  the  hay-mow,  falls  in  lumps  and 
handfuls  here  and  there,  so  that  the  stock  get 
too  much  of  it  to-day  and  too  little  to-morrow. 
When  they  eat  to  excess,  it  produces  an  unnat¬ 
ural  thirst,  laxness  of  the  bowels,  and  weakness 
of  the  limbs.  It  is  of  course  safer  and  better  to 
store  away  the  fodder,  well  cured,  without  salt, 
and  let  the  cattle  have  daily  access  to  salt 
troughs  under  cover  in  their  yards,  M’here  they 
will  take  only  as  much  as  nature  requires. 


Sorghum  as  a  Green  Fodder  Crop. 

Indian  corn  requires  a  rich  soil,  and  one  not 
liable  to  suffer  from  severe  drouths,  to  make  a 
really  good  growth  of  stalks  for  cutting  for  fod¬ 
der,  green  or  dry.  Sorghum,  if  the  soil  be  well 
worked  and  not  weedj’,  will  in  many  places  fur¬ 
nish  more  fodder  and  of  nearly  as  good  quality, 
especially  in  dry  seasons.  There  is  not  so  much 
need  of  care  in  selecting  the  seed,  and  this  crop, 
if  it  get  a  good  start  will  bear  drouth  very  well. 
It  should  be  sown  in  drills  about  two  feet  apart. 
The  ground  should  be  deep,  mellow,  and  free 
from  weeds.  When  the  seed  first  comes  up,  the 
little  plants  are  hard  to  tell  from  grass,  and  are 
liable  to  be  choked,  hence  clean  land  is  very 
desirable.  It  is  cut  and  cured  like  corn  stalks. 


1865  ) 


AATKRK^AX  AGJ^vJCUl  /mR.ST. 


Q41 


Gigantic  Indian  F owls. 

As  our  knowledge  of  the  countries  of  Central 
Asia  extends,  and  more  especially  as  naturalists 
pursue  their  investigations  among  those  coun¬ 
tries  where  with  scarce  a  doubt  our  barn-5’ard 
fowls  ■were  originally  native,  numerous  and  very 
interesting  varieties  are  brought  to  light.  Some 
prove  very  useful,  as  for  example,  the  Brahma 
Pootra,  which  has  been  known  only  since  1850 ; 
others  are  simply  curious,  and  have  failed  to 
impart  to  crosses  the  good  qualities  which 
they  possessed,  or  to  improve  when  bred  with 
care,  even  where  the  effort  has  been  made  to 
engraft  upon  the  breed  the  excellences  of  anoth¬ 
er.  A  new  wonder  for  poultry  fanciers,  and 
perhaps  the  germ  of  a  new  hen-fever,  equal  to 
that  excited  by  the  Cohin  China  fowls,  has  been 
brought  from  Central  India  by  a  Capt.  Hastings 
Frazer.  It  is  represented  in  the  above  group  of 
fowls.  The  drawing  having  been  made  be¬ 
fore  the  birds  had  recovered  from  the  effects  of 
a  long  voyage,  doubtless  does  not  show  them 
to  good  advantage.  They  rejoice  in  the  grace¬ 
ful  name  of  Beegum-Pilly-Gaguzes,  from  the 
title  of  a  native  Prince.  A  cock  and  hen  and 
two  pullets  are  shown.  The  cock  stands  2 
feet  6  inches  high,  and  his  thigh  is  so  large  it 
can  hardly  be  spanned  with  one  hand.  Chick¬ 
ens  are  said  to  attain  the  weight  of  8  pounds  at 
7  or  8  months  old.  These  meagre  statements 
are  sufficient  to  lend  an  interest  to  the  homely 
group  of  fowls  of  which  we  present  a  picture. 


and  to  lead  us  to  watch  for  further  reports  of 
their  success  or  failure  in  British  poultiy-yards. 
Capt.  Frazer  takes  them  to  Scotland,  where  he 
intends  breeding  them  and  crossing  them  with 
the  Gray  Dorkings,  in  the  hope  of  increasing 
the  size  of  this  large  and  favorite  breed. 


August  Turnips. 


In  many  parts  of  the  country  turnips  of  ex¬ 
cellent  quahtj’-,  and  of  fair  size,  can  be  raised 
from  seed  sowed  from  the  1st  to  the  10th  of 
August.  In  other  places  again,  it  would  be 
time  and  labor  spent  in  vain  to  attempt  to  raise 
even  a  small  plot  of  this  kind  of  roots.  If  the 
soil  is  only  right  and  in  good  condition,  there 
will  be  but  little  doubt  of  a  good  crop.  On  the 
5th  of  October  last  vve  saw  in  one  of  the  central 
counties  of  this  state  as  nice,  tender  and  smooth 
turnips  as  were  ever  raised  at  other  seasons  of 
the  year,  ■W'hich  is  unusual  for  that  part  of  the 
country.  The  seed  was  sowed  about  the  3d  of 
August.  They  attained  this  large  growth  in 
two  months.  As  they  were  superior  to  any 
late  turnips  we  have  ever  met  with,  the  inquiry 
was  raised  how  they  were  produced.  The  pro¬ 
prietor  informed  us  that  the  soil  was  a  sandy 
loam,  and  had  produced  a  crop  of  early  pota¬ 
toes.  Previous  to  planting  the  potatoes  in  the 
spring,  the  soil  receivial  only  a  thin  dressing  of 
well-rotted  barn-yard  manure.  As  soon  as  the 
potatoes  were  dug,  the  ground  was  plowmd  and 


harrowed,  and  the  turnip  seed  sow'ed  in  drills 
about  2  feet  apart.  The  plants  were  thinned  to  8 
inches  as  soon  as  they  were  large  enough  to 
transplant.  After  this  they  were  cullivated  ami 
hoed  twice.  They  were  the  Green-toii,  Simp- 
leaf  variet}^  known  in  Central  and  Western 
Hew-York  as  the  Flat  Field  Turnips,  wiiich 
are  usually  grown  on  new  land  just  cleared. 
There  are  other  varieties  of  turnips  among 
which  are  the  Long  White  French  Turnip, 
which  will  mature  if  sowed  the  first  week 
in  August,  where  the  soil  is  adaiited  to  them. 
We  have  seen  soil  in  excellent  condition,  capa¬ 
ble  of  producing  three  tons  of  the  best  quality 
of  hay  per  acre,  80  bushels  of  oats,  00  bushels 
of  Indian  corn,  and  thirty  bushels  of  as  nice 
wheat  as  is  usually  lOiind  in  the  Genesee  Val¬ 
ley  of  Western  New-York,  which  would  not 
yield  a  crop  of  turnips  worth  pulling,  if  the  seed 
were  sowed  as  late  in  the  season  as  the  last  of 
July,  or  the  first  week  of  August.  But,  where 
turnips  will  succeed  well,  om  advice  is  to  plow 
up  or  spade  eyeiy  available  nook  and  corner 
and  put  in  turnip  seed.  Frequently  there  can 
enough  be  raised,  after  the  first  of  August,  to 
furnish  one  or  two  milch  cows  and  a  span  of 
horses  with  a  good  feeding  daily,  during  the 
late  autumn  and  early  winter,  which  is  much 
better  than  to  allow  weeds  to  fill  the  space. 
Good  turnips  are  also  excellent  for  the  table, 
and  good  for  swine.  They  cover  the  ground 
with  a  rank  vegetation,  ■n’hich  makes  a  good 
green  manure  crop,  if  the  roots  do  not  mature. 


Q43 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[August, 


Keep  the  Best  Soil  on  the  Surface. 

There  are  two  classes  of  soils  which  ought 
not  to  be  plowed  deep.  One  of  these  is  the 
light  sandy  class  which  overlie  leachy  subsoils. 
Such  soils  become  fertile  only  when  they  con¬ 
tain  a  considerable  proportion  of  mold  or  hu¬ 
mus,  the  remains  of  vegetation  which  has  de- 
c.ayed  on  the  surface,  or  which  has  been  added 
in  manures.  Gradual  deepening  of  soils  of  this 
character  may  be  effected,  provided  it  be  done 
no  faster  than  organic  matter  in  some  form,  is 
added.  Plowing  the  subsoil  would  be  of  no  use, 
for  that  is  already  too  open  and  porous ;  but  the 
tillage  should  be  such  as  to  keep  the  fertile  por¬ 
tion  near  the  surface,  the  plowing  being  but  4  or 
5  inches  deep,  and  the  additions  of  manure  and 
vegetable  mold,  in  the  shape  of  green  manure 
crops,  (clover,  buckwheat,  corn,)  etc.,  frequent 
atid  abundant. 

The  other  class  is  more  difficult  to  manage, 
but  more  lasting  when  brought  up  to  good  tilth. 
These  soils  are  those  of  a  heavy  clayey,  or  grav¬ 
elly  and  clayey  character — hard  to  plow,  diffi¬ 
cult  to  pulverize,  prone  to  bake,  cracking  and 
drying  out  on  the  surface  so  as  to  suffer  in 
drouths.  The  soil  (if  there  is  anything  worthy 
the  name,)  is  thin,  and  consists  of  a  sheet  of 
mold,  not  more  than  2  or  3  inches  deep.  The 
time  was  when  there  was  no  mold ;  no  more 
vegetable  matter  on  the  surface  than  can  now 
be  discovered  in  the  unfertile  subsoil  beneath  it. 
But,  by  the  constant  operation  of  alternate  rain 
and  sunshine,  of  freezing  and  thawing,  and  the 
growth  and  decay  of  vegetation,  a  thin  stratum 
of  this  compact  earth  has  been  fitted  for  the 
purposes  of  vegetation  and  the  production  of 
crops.  A  seed  bed  has  been  formed,  in  which 
the  young  plants  m.ay  commence  life.  In  this 
mold  they  may  spread  their  tender  roots,  and 
find  available  nourishment  to  build  up  their 
stems  and  produce  seed.  This  thin  layer  of  soil 
is  essential  to  healthy  and  luxuriant  growth. 
Remove  it  and  seeds  will  germinate  slowly,  and 
the  plants  be  sickly  and  diminutive.  Every  crop 
of  grain  or  grass  tends  to  increase  the  depth  of 
this  stratum  of  mold,  as  it  is  kept  on  the  surface. 
Let  it  be  buried  beneath  a  portion  of  the  heavy 
barren  subsoil,  and  the  young  plants  will  be 
deprived  almost  entirely  of  their  sustenance, 
until  the  roots  struggling  for  life,  have  spread 
through  this  tough  clayey  mass,  and  reached 
the  fertile  mold.  A  soil  of  this  kind  must 
be  tilled  in  such  a  manner  as  to  keep  the  mold 
on  the  surface.  When  it  is  plowed,  the  com¬ 
mon  plow  should  run  only  as  deep  as  the  mold 
extends.  In  the  furrow  produced  by  the  com¬ 
mon  plow  the  Subsoil  plow  illustrated  on  page 
181  (March),  should  follow,  breaking  up  and 
pulverizing  the  compact  stratum  so  that  the 
surface  water  will  settle  down  readily  without 
injuring  crops  by  filling  the  little  interstices  of 
the  soil,  which  should  be  occupied  by  air  only. 


The  accompanying  illustration  represents  the 
manner  of  plowing  land  so  as  to  keep  the  mold 
or  best  soil  on  the  surface.  The  five  rectangu¬ 
lar  blocks  represent  a  section  of  furrow  slices 
turned  by  a  common  plow,  as  deep  as  the  soil 
or  mold  extends.  At  the  left  hand  a  small  por¬ 
tion  of  the  surface  soil  is  seen  unbroken,  resting 
OE  the  compact  stratum  of  subsoil.  Beneath 


the  furrow  and  furrow  slices  a  stratum  of  the 
subsoil  is  represented  as  broken  up  by  the 
subsoil  plow  drawn  in  the  furrows  of  the  com¬ 
mon  plow,  as  the  slices  are  turned  one  by  one. 
When  ground  is  plowed  in  this  way,  the  reader 
will  perceive  that  if  there  is  any  good  soil  it 
will  always  remain  at  the  surface.  After  the 
roots  have  spread  several  inches  in  each  lateral 
direction,  and  have  attained  some  size  and 
strength,  they  will  be  well  prepared  to  enter  the 
pulverized  subsoil,  and  slowly  transform  it  into 
fine  and  fertile  mold. 

We  would  not  be  understood  that  all  soils 
should  be  managed  in  this  way,  for  they  should 
not.  We  have  designated  the  particular  kinds 
that  need  similar  treatment.  There  are  soils 
where  the  most  fertile  portions  are  several  inch¬ 
es  below  the  surface,  which  require  to  be  plowed 
with  a  deep  tiller  or  trench  plow,  that  will  turn 
up  to  the  surface  a  more  productive  soil  than 
is  there  at  the  present  time. 

Farmers  should  study  the  character  of  the 
diftereut  kinds  of  soil  they  cultivate,  and  by  in¬ 
vestigation  and  experiment,  ascertain  how  to 
manage  each  kind  most  advantageously  and 
profit.ably  for  the  production  of  remunerating 
crops,  and  the  ultimate  benefit  of  the  soil. 


Fences  and  Highway  Cattle. 


The  heaviest  tax  laid  upon  our  farmers  is 
that  self-imposed  burden  of  much  fence  build¬ 
ing.  Not  a  few  of  the  division  fences  on  our 
farms  might  be  dispensed  with,  if  only  a  little 
forethought  and  management  were  used.  This 
has  been  often  discussed,  and  the  fact  often 
asserted,never  disputed,that  there  are  thousands 
of  farms  at  the  East  which  will  not  now  sell, 
and  which  never  would  have  sold  for  what  it 
has  cost  to  fence  them.  It  is,  however,  to  road- 
fences,  built  for  protection  against  roadside 
cattle,  that  we  now  direct  attention.  These,  in 
the  present  state  of  popular  sentiment,  can  not 
be  given  up.  The  cost  of  such  fences  is  enor¬ 
mous.  According  to  one  estimate,  there  are 
now  about  50,000  miles  of  road-fence  in  the 
State  of  New  York.  If  the  cost  of  buidling 
them  is  put  at  $1  a  rod,  and  the  annual  expense 
of  keeping  them  in  repair,  is  as  much  as  that 
dollar  at  interest,  then  the  entire  annual  ex¬ 
pense  of  the  road  fences  in  our  State  is,  with 
the  interest  on  the  investment,  upwards  of 
$2,000,000!  Other  estimates  carry  the  figures 
higher.  Surely  it  is  worth  while  to  consider 
whether  this  heavy  burden  may  not  be  lightened. 

According  to  old  English  common  law,  which 
is  modified  more  or  less,  or  done  away  with 
entirely,  by  the  statutes  of  different  States,  land- 
owners  are  not  required  to  build  highway 
fences.  They  own  the  land  to  the  middle  of  the 
street,  and  the  traveling  public  have  only  the 
right  of  way  through  it.  The  laws  against 
cattle  in  the  highways  are  in  most  cases  capable 
of  being  essentially  modified  by  town  regula¬ 
tions.  It  is  none  the  less  important,  that  any 
State  laws  which  hinder  the  removal  of  fences, 
should  be  repealed  at  once.  As  it  is,  laws 
agiiinst  cattle  in  the  highways  are  often  not 
enforced,  through  an  unmanly  fear  of  retaliation 
from  the  owners  of  the  offending  cattle.  All 
that  is  wanted,  in  most  cases,  is  a  settled  un¬ 
derstanding  and  agreement  among  the  leading 
men  of  a  town  that  they  will  sustain  each  other 
in  attempts  to  abate  the  nuisance.  First,  they 
should  unitedly  discountenance,  by  word 
and  deed,  the  practice  of  turning  stock  into  the 
street,  or  driving  those  not  well  herded,  or  allow¬ 
ing  them  to  be  driven.  A  public  sentiment  can 


ere  long  be  created  by  co-operation  among 
farmers  that  will  effectually  check  night  pastu¬ 
ring  and  other  trespasses  too  often  now  prac¬ 
tised  with  entire  impunity;  and  when  moral 
means  will  not  answer  the  purpose,  then  the 
law  may  be  vigorously  enforced.  Town  regu¬ 
lations  may  be  passed  which  may  go  far  to¬ 
wards  simplifying  and  regulating  this  matter. 
If  individual  sufferers  dislike  prosecuting  their 
neighbors,  then  let  it  be  made  the  duty  of  the 
path-master  or  other  officer  to  do  it ;  a  duty  for 
the  neglect  of  which  he  shall  be  fined,  and  for 
the  discharge  of  which  he  shall  be  well  paid. 
We  verily  believe  that  one  great  reason  why 
so  many  offenders  join  in  defiance  of  the  law 
in  this  and  many  other  particulars,  is  because 
the  leading  men  of  the  town  have  so  little  cour¬ 
age  to  face  the  chances  of  political  unpopularity 
and  the  loss  of  a  seat  in  the  Legislature  when 
it  comes  each  man’s  turn  to  “  run.” 

—  « —  iMa—  — - - 

Management  of  Hoof  Rot  in  Sheep. 

Whenever  this  disease  has  made  its  appear¬ 
ance  among  sheep,  it  should  receive  prompt 
attention,  and  effectual  remedies  should  be  ap¬ 
plied  without  delay,  in  order  to  prevent  the 
virus  from  being  communicated  to  the  hoofs  of 
healthy  sheep.  Every  sheep  that  is  in  the  least 
affected  with  hoof  rot,  should  be  separated  at 
once  from  the  flock,  and  kept  at  a  distance  from 
them,  until  every  appearance  of  the  disease  is 
removed.  The  best  time  to  examine  whether 
the  hoofs  are  diseased  or  not,  is  soon  after 
a  heavy  rain,  as  all  dry  dirt  will  then  be  wash¬ 
ed  from  their  feet,  and  the  hoofs  will  be  wet 
and  soft,  and  may  be  shaved  off  much  more 
easily  than  when  they  are  dry.  Let  the  sheep 
be  confined  in  a  clean  pen,  littered  with  straw, 
so  that  but  little  manure  will  be  held  between 
the  parts  of  the  hoofs.  Now,  let  one  man  place 
a  sheep  on  one  of  its  sides  on  a  plank  or  box, 
about  2  feet  high,  with  all  his  legs  extending 
horizontally  over  a  large  tub  of  water.  While 
the  sheep  is  held  in  this  position,  let  another 
man  wash  the  hoofs  clean,  using  a  woolen 
wash-rag.  With  a  sharp  edged  but  dull  point¬ 
ed  knife,  remove  all  the  dirt  from  the  cracks 
and  creases  of  the  hoofs ;  and  cut  off  scaly 
pieces,  and  long  ill-shapen  hoofs.  If  there  are 
any  signs  of  hoof  rot  there  will  be  no  difficulty 
in  discovering  it.  Scrape  off  and  wash  out  thor¬ 
oughly  all  the  diseased  matter,  using  strong 
soap  suds.  Then  wipe  the  hoofs  with  a  dry 
woolen  cloth,  and  apply  the  caustic  or  corro¬ 
sive  as  will  be  subsequently  explained. 

Sheep  should  then  be  turned  into  a  clean  dry 
yard  or  pasture,  for  a  few  hours,  where  no  wet 
grass  will  wash  off  the  application,  and  where 
the  hoofs  will  not  be  filled  with  dirt.  The  most 
suitable  tools  for  pruning  hoofs  are  a  strong 
pair  of  pruning  shears  that  make  a  drawing 
cut,  a  good  pocket  knife,  and  an  inch  or  an 
inch-and-a  half  chisel  and  mallet.  All  these 
tools  should  be  properly  ground  on  a  stone  of 
fine  grit,  and  then  whetted  on  a  fine-grained 
oil  stone.  If  the  tools  be  put  in  good  cutting 
order,  hoofs  may  be  cut  or  paired  off  without 
difficulty.  When  hoofs  are  dry  and  hard,  they 
are  not  only  more  difficult  to  cut  or  pare  off, 
but  there  is  danger  of  tearing  off  the  shell 
where  it  is  thin.  When  any  of  the  hoofs  have 
grown  beyond  the  proper  length,  place  the 
sheep  on  its  feet  on  a  hard  plank,  and  use  the 
chisel  and  mallet.  Chip  off  small  portions  at 
once,  when  cutting  near  the  quick ;  and  never 
place  the  chisel  on  the  hoof  so  as  to  cut  square 
across,  but  a  little  slanting,  as  it  will  cut  easier 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Q43 


and  be  less  liable  to  hurt  the  sheep.  After  the 
long  toes  have  been  pruned  off,  shave  off  the 
prominent  corners  with  the  pocket  knife. 

There  are  several  remedies,  ointments,  caus¬ 
tics,  and  corrosive  applications,  which  have 
been  employed  in  curing  the  foot  rot.  An  ap¬ 
plication  of  pine  tar  and  spirits  of  turpentine 
mixed,  has  been  used  with  good  results.  Blue 
vitrol  pulverized  and  mingled  with  tar,  applied 
warm,  is  another  remedy ;  and  a  strong  solution 
of  blue  vitriol  in  warm  water,  is  also  good, 
the  sheep  being  made  to  stand  a  minute  or  two 
in  a  trough  containing  it.  It  is,  however,  apt 
to  be  washed  off  in  a  short  time  by  wet  grass. 
The  best  preparation  that  we  have  ever  used 
was  equal  quantities  of  dry  white  lead  and 
finely  pulverized  blue  vitriol  mingled  with 
boiled  linseed  oil,  but  only  to  that  degree  that  it 
would  barely  flow.  This  is  applied  with  a  small 
swab  to  the  affected  parts,  after  the  feet  have 
been  prepared  as  already  directed.  One  or  two 
applications  of  this  preparation  during  the  first 
stages  of  the  foot  rot,  will  usually  arrest  its 
progress  in  a  flock,  and  effect  a  permanent  cure. 
But  when  the  disease  has  required  the  paring 
away  of  a  large  proportion  of  the  hoof,  so 
much  so  that  the  bones  are  laid  bare,  as  is 
sometimes  the  case,  it  will  be  necessary  to  tie 
pieces  of  firm  cloth  over  the  feet,  which  are 
first  wrapped  in  tow.  The  tow  is  put  around 
and  over  the  wound,  then  pieces  of  coarse  tow¬ 
eling,  or  of  old  sacks  about  5  inches  square,  are 
placed  beneath  each  foot,  the  edges  are  turned 
up,  the  corners  folded  smoothly  to  the  leg,  and 
tied  barely  tight  enough  with  woolen  yarn  to 
keep  the  rags  from  dropping  off.  The  boiled 
oil  causes  the  lead  and  copper  salts  to  adhere 
well,  and  by  drying  soon,  it  forms  a  good  coat 
to  exclude  dirt,  after  the  bandage  has  worn  out. 
Sheep  should  be  examined  at  least  once  a  week 
where  the  hoof  rot  has  made  its  appearance; 
and  a  constant  watch  should  be  kept  to  discov¬ 
er  any  symptoms  of  lameness,  which  is  one  of 
the  first  signs  of  the  disease.  Timely  attention 
may  save  many  valuable  sheep. 

Youatt  directs,  that  after  thoroughly  paring, 
“  The  foot  should  be  washed  with  a  solution  of 
chloride  of  lime,  in  the  proportion  of  one  pound 
of  the  powder  to  a  gallon  of  water.  This  will 
remove  the  foetor,  and  tendency  to  sloughing 
and  mortification,  which  are  the  too  frequent 
attendants  on  foot  rot.  The  muriate  or  butter 
of  antimony  must  then  be  resorted  to,  and  by 
means  of  a  small  stick  with  a  little  tow  tied 
around  one  of  its  extremities,  applied  to  every 
denuded  part,  lightly  where  the  surface  has  a 
healthy  appearance,  and  more  severely  where 
fungus  granulations  have  been  cut  off,  or 
where  there  are  small  granulations  springing 
up.  There  is  no  application  compared  to  this. 
It  is  effectual  as  a  superficial  caustic ;  and  it  so 
readUy  combines  with  the  fluids  belonging  to 
the  part  to  which  it  is  applied,  that  it  quickly 
becomes  diluted,  and  comparatively  powerless, 
and  is  incapable  of  producing  any  deep  or  cor¬ 
roding  mischief.  So  far  as  these  foot  cases 
are  concerned,  it  supersedes  every  other  appli¬ 
cation.  The  change  of  color  in  the  part  will 
accurately  show  to  w'hat  portions  it  has  been 
applied,  and  what  effect  has  been  produced. 
*  *  *  The  foot  should  be  dressed  every  day. 
Each  new  separation  of  horn  should  be  re¬ 
moved,  and  every  portion  of  fungus  submitted 
to  the  action  of  the  caustic,  with  a  degree  of 
severity  proportioned  to  the  necessity  of  the 
case.  The  new  horn  should  likewise  be  ex¬ 
amined.  If  it  appears  to  be  healthy  and  toler¬ 
ably  firm,  nothing  should  be  done  to  it ;  but  if 
it  is  soft  and  spongy,  the  caustic  should  be 


lightly  applied.  The  sooner  the  bandage  can 
be  removed,  and  the  slieep  turned  to  some 
upland  or  thoroughly  dry  pasture,  the  better 
will  it  be  for  the  foot  and  the  health  of  the  ani¬ 
mal  generally.  The  worst  cases  of  foot  rot  will 
readily  yield  to  this  mode  of  treatment,  provid¬ 
ed  the  bone  has  not  been  exposed,  and  there 
are  no  sinuses  running  into  the  joints,  or  deep- 
seated  parts  of  the  foot,  or  the  pasterns  above.” 

- - »-< — ^ - - 

Maintaining  a  Ml  Flow  of  Milk. 

During  the  months  of  July  and  August  in  our 
latitude,  the  full  flow  of  milk  is  frequently 
checked.  In  most  instances  grass  fails.  Some¬ 
times,  however,  farmers  have  kept  too  many 
animals  on  a  given  surface ;  and  many  cows 
have  kept  the  grass  from  growing,  and  the  usu¬ 
al  flow  of  milk  has  diminished.  Dairymen  slide 
into  this  practice  of  over-stocking  their  pastures 
at  a  season  of  the  year  when  grass  grows  fi-eely. 
A  cow  consumes  a  certain  amount  of  feed  to 
sustain  and  to  repair  the  waste  of  her  body.  If 
she  can  have  more  than  enough  for  this  purpose 
the  surplus  will  be  converted  into  milk.  There¬ 
fore,  if  feed  is  short,  the  flow  of  milk  must  in¬ 
evitably  diminish.  Breeding  is  another  cause 
of  diminution  in  the  quantity  of  milk.  Some 
cows,  even  when  supplied  with  all  the  good 
grass  they  will  consume,  will  fall  off  in  milk 
within  a  few  weeks  after  being  got  with  calf; 
and  there  is  sometimes  so  much  shrinkage  in 
the  amount  of  milk,  that  a  cow  might  be  dried 
off  in  a  short  time.  Another  common  cause  of 
failure  in  the  flow  of  milk  is,  a  want  of  an  abun¬ 
dant  supply  of  pure  water. 

These  are  the  chief  difficulties  that  people 
meet  with,  who  keep  few  or  many  cows.  To 
obviate  the  difficulty  of  short  pasturage,  a  farm¬ 
er  will  find  it  much  more  profitable  to  keep 
fewer  cows  and  so  have  more  and  better  grass, 
as  two  cows  when  kept  on  as  much  grass  as  they 
will  eat,  will  yield  more  milk  than  three  or  four 
cows  kept  on  the  same  feed,  for  they  would  find 
barely  enough  to  support  animal  life.  By  over¬ 
stocking  a  pasture,  most  of  the  grass  is  used  up 
to  keep  the  animals  alive,  without  improving 
their  condition,  while  a  smaller  number  would 
thrive  well,  and  at  the  same  time,  give  a  good 
supply  of  milk.  Therefore,  in  order  to  obtain 
the  greatest  amount  of  butter  or  cheese  from  a 
given  amount  of  pasture,  the  correct  w’ay  to  do 
it  is  to  keep  few  cows  and  feed  well.  When 
grass  fails,  they  should  have  at  least  one  feed¬ 
ing  daily  of  good  hay,  or  green  corn  stalks,  or 
a  few  quarts  of  meal  or  bran,  made  thin  with 
water.  It  is  quite  important  that  the  flow  of 
milk  be  maintained;  because,  if  a  cow  be  al¬ 
lowed  to  shrink  in  the  quantity  of  milk,  it  is 
usually  quite  difficult,  even  by  extra  feeding,  to 
bring  it  up  again.  Sometimes  it  can  be  done 
without  difficulty.  But  in  most  cases  it  is  im¬ 
practicable. 

Whenever  it  is  known  that  a  cow  shrinks  in 
her  milk  after  getting  with  calf,  take  means  to 
prevent  it  each  year  until  about  three  months 
after  the  time  of  turning  cows  to  grass.  The  aim 
should  be  to  have  such  cows  come  in  just  in  time 
to  recover  from  the  debilitating  effects  of  par¬ 
turition  by  the  time  grass  is  large  enough  for 
grazing.  Then  her  milk  wdll  be  had  at  a  sea¬ 
son  of  the  year  when  cows  are  usually  most 
profitable.  But  if  they  are  allowed  to  breed 
early  in  the  season,  they  are  frequently  very 
unprofitable  cows;  and  improper  management 
renders  them  still  more  so. 

Cows  well  fed  and  properly  milked,  can  not 
be  expected  to  yield  a  large  supply,  unless  they 


have  an  abundance  of  good  water  several  times 
a  day.  Once  or  twice  is  not  sufficient.  In  hot 
weather  they  need  it  three  times  daily.  They 
relish  a  pailful  of  good  water  as  w’e  do  a  cool- 
ing  draught  from  the  “old  oaken  bucket.” 
And  they  must  have  it  or  they  will  not  and 
can  not  yield  an  abundant  supply  of  milk. 
Large  cows  that  have  access  to  pure  water 
often  drink  from  twenty  to  thirty  gallons  daily 
during  the  hot  weather,  and  this  water  assists 
greatly  in  keeping  up  the  flow  of  milk.  With¬ 
hold  a  part  of  it  and  the  supply  diminishes.  As 
soon  as  cows  have  filled  themselves  %vith  grass 
they  often  desire  to  drink.  They  seldom  take 
much  water  into  an  empty  stomach.  Conse¬ 
quently  if  they  are  required  to  drink  at  a  irool 
of  standing,  dirty  water,  perhaps  defiled  by 
dung,  they  will  drink  no  more  than  is  absolutely 
necessary  to  sustain  life.  Such  water  is  not 
refreshing  to  cows,  or  any  other  animals ;  and 
no  one  need  expect  that  milch  cows  will 
keep  up  the  quantity  of  milk,  so  long  as  they 
are  required  to  use  such  an  unwholesome  drink. 


Harvesting  Peas. 


Peas  are  often  mown  like  grass,  and  after  re¬ 
maining  in  the  swath  a  few  days  they  are  gath¬ 
ered  with  forks,  with  hand-rakes,  or  with  horse- 
rakes.  This  is  a  slow  and  laborious  way. 
Another  plan  is  to  roll  them  with  a  scythe. 
This  is  done  by  reaching  forward  with  the 
scythe  among  the  uncut  peas,  and  drawing  it 
straight  backward.  Those  vines  that  do  not 
separate  readily,  are  cut  off,  and  when  a  roll  is 
as  large  as  can  be  handled  easily,  the  scythe  is 
run  around  and  beneath  it  to  cut  off  all  the 
vines  that  would  be  a  hindrance  %vhen  pitching 
the  bunches  on  the  cart.  This  is  a  better  way 
than  the  first.  There  are  also  several  ways  of 
raking  them  with  a  horse-rake  without  cutting. 
Some  farmers  proceed  the  same  as  when  raking 
hay,  which  leaves  a  strip  beneath  each  wind¬ 
row  not  separated  from  the  ground  where  they 
grew.  This  makes  slow  and  hard  pitching.  In 
order  to  make  clean  and  thorough  work,  oth¬ 
ers  run  the  rake  gradually  into  the  unraked 
peas  until  it  is  nearly  full,  when  the  horse  is 
guided  out,  and  the  peas  are  left  on  the  raked 
ground.  But  this  is  not  so  good  a  way  as  first 
to  run  the  rake  across  the  field  where  the  wind¬ 
rows  are  to  be  made,  clearing  traeks,  say  30  or 
40  feet  apart,  going  and  returning  in  the  same 
place.  This  prepares  a  strip  of  raked  ground 
for  each  windrow.  The  standing  crop  is  thus 
simply  raked  into  windrows  with  a  horse-rake 
(the  wooden  revolving  rake  is  best) ;  and  this 
will  be  found  the  most  expeditious,  thorough, 
and  easy  manner  of  gathering  peas.  The  crop 
lies  in  this  shape  several  days — until  it  is  suffi¬ 
ciently  cured  to  stack  or  house.  It  may  be 
pitched  upon  the  cart  directly  from  the  wind¬ 
rows,  and  this  is  usually  better  than  to  roll  up 
heaps,  which  tangles  the  haulms  and  makes 
subsequent  handling  laborious.  In  case  of  hard 
rains  it  is  well  to  turn  over  the  windrows  to  let 
those  plants  which  may  be  matted  down  upon 
the  ground  have  a  better  chance  to  dry. 

Peas  may  be  thrashed  at  any  time.  They  are 
fed  unthrashed  to  sheep  and  hogs  during  the 
autumn  and  winter,  tc  excellent  advantage; 
and  the  thrashed  straw  if  well  cured,  is  eaten 
freely  by  all  kinds  of  stock,  and  may  be  used  as 
freely  as  timothy  hay.  If  not  properly  cured, 
all  its  value  as  fodder  is  liable  to  be  lost. 


Fowii  Idea. — A  correspondent  asks,  whether 
hen  manure  is  the  best  fertilizer  for  egg  plants. 


ti44 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[AuarsT, 


Carrying  Hay  by  Hand. 


■When  hay  is  to  be  moved  but  a  few  rods,  it  is 
often  more  convenient  to  carry  it  on  two  poles, 
as  represented  in  the  engraving,  than  it  is  to 
haul  it  on  a  wagon,  or  cart,  or  with  a  horse,  as 
illustrated  on  page  213  (July)  of  this  volume. 
On  salt  meadows,  where  the  ground  is  not  firm 
enough  to  hold  up  a  horse,  cocks  of  hay  are 
often  collected  in  this  manner.  Two  men  are 
able  to  carry  with  ease  a  cock  of  hay  weighing 
from  one  hundred  to  two  huudred  pounds. 

Two  smooth  poles,  seven  or  eight  feet  long, 
with  the  ends  rounded,  are  used ;  and  if  the 
cocks  are  not  large,  two  fork  handles  will  serve 
a  good  purpose.  They  are  thrust  beneath  a 
cock,  about  thirty  inches  apart ;  and  the  men 
press  their  bodies  against  it,  to  keep  it  from 
turning  over  either  way.  Other  material  besides 
hay  may  be  carried  in  this  manner  to  good  ad¬ 
vantage.  Sometimes  a  lot  of  corn  stalks  in 
bundles  are  all  within  an  area  of  twenty  rods  of 
the  stack  bottom.  Two  men  will  gather  them 
together  with  poles  quite  as  soon  as  they  could 
be  loaded  on  a  wagon.  If  the  shocks  are  securely 
bound  at  the  tops,  the  poles  may  be  thrust  be¬ 
neath  them.  Otherwise  the  sheaves  may  be 
laid  crosswise  on  the  poles.  Stooks  of  unhusked 
corn,  and  field  beans  may  also  be  carried  in  this 
manner ;  and  nearly  every  fiirmer,  who  keeps 
stock,  will  often  find  this  a  much  more  con¬ 
venient  way  to  carry  fodder  to  his  animals,  than 
on  a  fork,  when  it  must  be  moved  to  a  distance. 
The  same  method  is  extensively  applied  in  car¬ 
rying  water  in  a  barrel,  stone,  brick,  and  other 
building  material.  Men  are  much  better  adapted 
to  candying  materials  than  to  drawing  them, 
and  two  men  will  readily  carry  between  them, 
on  poles,  a  cock  of  hay  weighing  two  hundred 
pounds,  when  it  would  greatly  fatigue  them  to 
draw  the  same  cock  with  a  rope  around  it. 


Plowing  in  Green  Crops  for  Manure. 


One  of  the  most  economical  ways  of  improv¬ 
ing  the  fertility  of  an  impoverished  soil,  or  of 
renovating  a  barren  one,  is  by  plowing  under 
some  kind  of  green  crop.  Farmers  have  relied 
chiefly  on  red  clover  for  this  purpose,  and  there 
are  thousands  of  acres  of  soil  naturally  unpro¬ 
ductive,  that  have  been  brought  to  an  excellent 
state  of  fertility  by  applying  gypsum  to  the 
clover  crop,  and  turning  it  under  as  green  ma¬ 
nure.  Indian  corn,  buckwheat,  and  some  other 
plants  are  employed  for  the  same  purpose,  as 
are  also  marrowfat  peas,  sown  thick  in  drills 
between  rows  of  early  sweet  corn,  as  soon  as 
the  corn  is  cultivated  and  hoed  the  last  time. 
Then,  as  soon  as  the  ears  are  gathered,  every 
thing  is  turned  under,  by  plowing  crosswise  of 
the  rows.  In  those  districts  where  broom  com 


is  raised,  the  portion  that  remains  after  the 
brush  has  been  gathered,  is  usually  plowed  in  to 
enrich  the  soil.  The  same  thing  is  practised,  in 
some  instances,  by  farmers  on  our  Western 
prairies.  Sometimes  tall  weeds  take  almost  en¬ 
tire  possession  of  a  field,  which,  when  they  are 
plowed  in,  furnish  much  vegetable  matter  for 
improving  the  fertility  of  the  soil. 

The  usual  means  employed  for  turning  under 
such  materials  consists  of  a  log  chain,  or  large 
tarred  rope,  having  one  end  attached  to  the  outer 
end  of  the  whifiie  tree  of  the  offside  horse,  and 
the  other  end  hitched  around  the  beam  of  the 
plow  near  tlie  standard  as  represented  by  the 
illustration  herewith  given.  The  chain  should 
always  be  only  long  enough  to  draw  the  tops  of 
whatever  is  being  plowed  in,  along  in  the  fur¬ 
row,  just  in  time  to  allow  the  fuiTow  slice  wlien 
turning  to  fall  on  it.  If  the  chain  is  a  few 
inches  too  long,  the  furrow  slice  will  fall  upon 
it,  and  be  broken,  and  displaced,  as  the  chain 
draws  out.  Take  a  “  rolling  hitch”  around  the 
beam  of  the  plow,  and  then  adjust  the  length  of 
the  chain  until  the  bight  of  it  will  remain  on 
the  turning  furrow  Slice,  only  two  or  three 
inches  forward  of  the  point  where  it  comes  to 
rest.  This  will  draw  the  tops  of  weeds,  grass, 
Canada  thistles,  and  cornstalks  completely  be¬ 
neath  the  falling  earth ;  whereas  without  such 


a  contrivance,  the  tops  would  extend  above 
gi'ound,  and  if  not  already  matured,  would 
continue  to  grow,  sometimes  quite  as  well  as  if 
they  had  not  been  plowed  in.  Sometimes  weeds 
and  cornstalks  are  first  mowed,  close  to  the 
ground,  and  hauled  into  the  furrows,  as  the 
plowing  is  in  progress.  But  in  this  practice 
the  green  material  is  not  distributed  as  evenly  as 
it  is  when  plowed  in  without  being  mowed. 

A  piece  of  half-inch  round  iron  bent  in  the 
form  of  a  letter  U  is  used  instead  of  a  chain, 
for  drawing  under  red  clover,  or  other  crops. 
But,  as  a  chain  is  more  flexible  than  an  iron 
bow,  it  has  been  found  more  convenient.  When 
the  plow  is  drawn  by  oxen,  the  chain  is  attached 
to  a  stick  about  20  inches  long,  bolted  to  the 
upper  side  of  a  beam,  as  shown  by  the  preced¬ 
ing  engraving.  If  hitched  to  the  forward  end 
of  the  plow  beam,  the  chain  will  not  always 
run  far  enough  to  the  right  side  of  the  furrow 
to  draw  in  the  tops  of  all  the  stalks.  However, 
if  the  chain  is  adjusted  correctly  as  to  length, 
the  work  can  be  performed  quite  satisfactorily. 

Some  plowmen  have  considered  it  essential  to 
pass  a  heavy  roller,  and  sometimes  a  harrow 
over  corn  stalks,  and  weeds.  But  we  have  al¬ 
ways  found  this  unnecessary,  as  the  part  of  the 
team  that  travels  on  the  unplowed  ground,  will 
always  tread  it  down  as  fast  as  it  is  plowed  in  ; 
and  they  will  also  bend  it  over  in  the  right  di¬ 
rection.  We  have  plowed  in  green  corn  stalks, 
the  average  hight  of  which  was  eight  feet  over 
the  entire  field,  without  using  a  roller,  or  harrow 
to  lay  it  down,  as  the  nearside  horse  and  whifiie 
trees  broke  it  down  in  the  most  desirable  manner. 


Plowmen  experience  some  difficulty  in  keep¬ 
ing  the  bight  of  the  chain  back  in  its  proper 
place  on  the  turning  furrow  slice.  For  this 
reason,  they  are  not  able  to  draw  every  thing 
under  the  slices,  as  is  desirable.  To  obviate 
this  difficulty,  J.  &  A.  Kilmer,  Barnerville, 
Schoharie  Co.,  N.  Y.,  have  recently  invented 
and  patented  an  improvement,  by  which  the 
drag  chain  is  kept  in  the  place  desired.  Their 
advertisement  in  this  number  will  convey  a 
good  idea  of  the  improved  attachment.  We 
recently  saw  it  tested  in  plowing  in  weeds,  and 
it  operated  in  a  most  satisfactory  manner.  It  is 
strange,  indeed,  that  such  a  simple  and  good 
contrivance  should  not  have  been  thought  oL 
before.  The  improvement  can  be  attached  to 
any  plow,  it  being  merely  a  small  chain,  or 
strap  hitched  to  the  bight  of  the  drag  chain, 
and  then  to  the  right  handle  of  the  plow. 


Hutchinson’s  Horse  Fork. 

Sometimes  oxen  only  are  used  for  hauling 
hay  with  a  wagon,  or  cart.  Then,  if  the  hay  is 
pitched  off  with  a  horse  fork,  a  yoke  of  oxen 
is  employed  instead  of  a  horse,  and  a  strong 
fork  is  required.  For  this  purpose  Mathias 
Hutchinson,  of  Cayuga  County,  N.  Y.,  has  fur¬ 
nished  a  photograph  of  the  first  fork  that 
was  made  in  that  county.  It  is 
not  patented ;  and  an  ordinary  me¬ 
chanic  can  make  one  at  an  expense 
of  a  few  dollars.  Friend  Hutchin¬ 
son  writes ;  “  The  fork  from  which 
the  photograph  was  taken,  had 
been  strained  by  hard  usage,  and 
the  tines  straitened.  They  should 
be  made  strong,  especially  near  the 
head,  if  made  of  iron.  Some  make 
them  of  steel.  The  handle  {B)  is 
two  feet  long,  the  head  (A)  is  three 
feet  four  inches,  both  made  of  hard 
white  oak,  3x3  inches  square.  The 
tines  (C7)  are  two  feet  long ;  they  should  be  placed 
10  inches  apart  and  firmly  fastened  into  the  head. 

“  The  handle  and  teeth  should  stand  at  an 
angle  of  about  sixty  degrees.  At  E  the  side  of 
the  handle  is  gouged  out  to  receive  the  rope, 
and  a  latch,  made  of  a  piece  of  iron,  held  in 
place  by  the  catch  (F),  retains  the  rope  in  the 
groove  of  the  handle.  AVhen  the  forkful  is  to 

be  dropped  tlie 
small  rope  is 
jerked,  which 
raises  the  catch 
{F),  when  the 
hay  falls  off, 
and  the  fork  is 
suspended  by 
the  main  rope 
attached  to  a 
ring  at  D,  at  the 
junction  of  the 
handle  and  the 
head.  A  wood¬ 
en  button  is 
fastened  to  the 
handle(H),  hav¬ 
ing  a  hole  in 

HUTCHINSON’S  HAY  FORK.  gf  for 

receiving  the  latch  rope.  [We  think  it  would 
be  quite  as  well  to  let  that  rope  run  through  a 
smooth  hole  in  the  handle. — Ed.]  It  is  simple 
and  effective  in  the  hands  of  a  skillful  workman, 
on  which  much  depends.  It  will  take  off  a 
tun  of  hay  at  from  four  to  seven  draughts  in  as 
many  minutes,  unless  the  hay  is  very  short.  A 
few  boards  should  be  nailed  on  the  side  of  the 


ATTACHMKNT  FOR  TURNING  IN  WEEDS,  ETC. 


1885.J 


245 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


mow,  to  the  big  beam,  for  the  hay 
and  fork  to  slide  on,  and  a  tackle 
block  placed  in  the  peak  of  the 
bam,  6  or  8  feet  from  the  edge  of 
the  mow.  A  second  block  is  re¬ 
quired  for  the  rope  to  work  under 
on  the  barn  door  post,  near  the 
bottom,  that  the  team  may  draw  to 
advantage.  To  have  another  block 
at  the  top  of  the  door,  to  be  used 
when  the  mow  is  nearly  full,  is  very 
convenient,  but  it  is  not  necessary. 

“The  hay  should  be  loaded  on  the  wagon 
with  reference  to  the  fork,  and  properly  bound. 
The  fork  should  be  put  in  the  hay,  not  in  the 
middle,  but  nearest  to  one  end  of  the  load,  at 
an  angle  of  about  45  degrees  with  the  wagon. 
The  head,  and  not  the  teeth,  should  be  turned 
towards  the  mow.  Then  press  the  teeth  their 
whole  length  into  the  hay  with  the  foot,  and 
fasten  the  rope  at  the  end  of  the  handle.  When 
the  forkful  has  swung  over  the  beam,  at  the 
proper  time,  the  operator,  by  giving  the  small 
rope  which  he  holds  in  his  hand  a  jerk,  will  un¬ 
load  it  instantly.  Those  on  the  mow  need  not 
attempt  to  divide  the  forkfuls ;  but  by  keeping 
the  middle  of  the  mow  the  highest,  they  may  be 
rolled  into  the  comers,  and  wherever  needed. 
It  is  a  labor  saving  machine.  However,  I  have 
sometimes  employed  hands  who  lacked  in¬ 
genuity  to  work  it  to  the  best  advantage.” 

.  « »'■*■  #  — ■  »  »P  r  .m 

HutcMnson’s  Improved  Plow. 


Good  plowing  is  an  essential  part  of  improved 
agriculture.  In  order  to  plow  well,  we  must 
have  good  plows.  Every  effort  that  is  made 
to  improve  the  form  of  the  common  plow  is 
praiseworthy,  and  every  real  improvement  is 
welcomed  by  every  good  plowman.  Jethro 
Wood,  who  invented  the  cast-iron  standard  of 
the  common  plow,  immortalized  his  name  by 
an  invention  that  we  could  not  readily  dis¬ 
pense  with.  He  has  been  called  “a  whittling 
Yankee;”  it  is  said  that  he  brought  out  this  grand 
improvement  by  whittling  potatoes  in  the  form 
of  miniature  plows.  The  world  at  large  will 
never  even  know  the  debt  of  gratitude  they  owe 
to  the  inventor  of  the  cast-iron  standard.  Pas¬ 
sing  by  the  long  list  of  ambitious  mechanics 
and  farmers,  who  have  emulated  each  other’s 
zeal  to  discover  some  improvement  in  the  plow, 
we  introduce  to  the  readers  of  the  Agriculturist 
two  illustrations  showing  an  improved  plow, 
made  by  Mathias  Hutchinson,  Kings  Perry, 
Cayuga  Co.,  H.  Y.,  an  intelligent  practical 
farmer  and  skillful  mechanic.  Fig.  1  repre¬ 
sents  a  land-side  view,  and  fig.  2  a  mold-board 
view  of  the  improvement.  The  inven¬ 
tion  consists  in  the  standard  and  land- 
side  being  made  in  one  piece,  and  placed 
several  inches  farther  back  in  the  beam, 
than  when  the  standard  is  attached  to 
the  mold  board.  The  great  excellence 
of  this  improvement  consists  in  form¬ 
ing  a  spacious,  open  throat,  which  sel¬ 
dom  clogs  when  plowing  in  coarse  ma¬ 
nure  and  stubble.  We  have  long  de- 
Bired  to  see  a  plow  brought  out  for 
all  kinds  of  plowing,  one  which  would 
work  equally  well  in  sod  and  stubble,  and 
run  deep  or  shallow,  without  carrying  dirt 
on  the  mold  board.  This  plow  we  have  put  to 
several  rigid  tests  and  know  it  to  he  really  ex¬ 
cellent.  Prompted  by  a  laudable  ambition  to 
benefit  mankind,  friend  Hutchinson  offers  the 
benefits  and  advantages  of  his  improvement  to 


Fig.  1.— LANDSIDB  VIEW. 

all  who  desire  to  make  or  have  made  plows 
upon  this  plan.  He  writes:  “The  inventor  de¬ 
sires  these  improvements  to  be  /m  to  all.  A 
caveat  was  filed,  and  model  sent  to  the  Patent 
Office  in  1855.  The  first  plow  was  intended  for 
deep  plowing,  in  sward  land.  Five  years  af¬ 
terwards  he  made  a  plow-of-all-work,  [shown  in 
our  illustrations,]  intended  to  turn  stubble  as 
well  as  sward.  This  is  not  so  long,  spreads 
wider,  and  is  lighter  than  the  first  pattern.  The 
mold-board  is  constructed  on  the  principle  of 
the  screw  and  wedge  combined.  The  forward 
part  approaches  the  form  of  the  wedge,  and 
rises  and  spreads  at  nearly  the  same  angle ;  but 
the  greater  part  is  a  section  of  a  screw  slightly 
increasing  towards  the  extreme  wing. 

“The  attachment  of  the  standard  is  to  the  land- 
side,  as  represented  in  the  engraving,  which 
prevents  it  from 
being  choked  out 
of  the  ground  by 
stubble.  It  is  of 
light  draft  in  pro¬ 
portion  to  the 
amount  of  ground 
it  moves,  and  is 
easily  guided.  It 
breaks  the  furrow 
less  thau  some 
plows,  and  car¬ 
ries  no  dirt  on 
the  mold  board, 
even  in  plowing 
mucky  and  light  ground,  after  being  scoured 
smooth.  Being  long  and  “  clipper-built,”  it  is 
well  adapted  to  turning  a  deep  furrow  in  stiff 
clay  lands.  The  edge,  including  the  point,  is 
nearly  20  inches  long,  and  cuts,  when  new,  over 
12  inches  wide.  This  is  useful  in  cutting  off 
Canada  thistle,  clover,  and  other  deep  roots, 
as  it  lessens  the  draft  of  the  plow,  and  assists 
in  turning  the  furrow  in  sward;  it  being  more 
easy  to  cut  than  to  tear  off  the  bottom  of  the 
furre-w  slice,  especially  when  full  of  roots.” 

As  friend  Hutchinson  has  assured  us  that  his 
aim  is  not  to  make  money  by  this  improvement, 
we  are  permitted  to  state,  that  a  set  of  casting 


for  patterns  may  be  obtained  at  the  expense  of 
the  casting,  boxing  and  shipping,  by  communi¬ 
cating  with  him,  by  the  address  above  given. 
We  saw  this  plow  tested  in  a  hard,  dry,  stony, 
clayey  soil,  at  a  plowing  match  of  the  Cayuga 
Co.  Ag*!  Society.  It  turned  a  sod  12  inches  wide, 
7  inches  deep,  and  received  the  first  prize. 


Cesspool  and  Liquid  Manure  Tank. 

Many  persons  in  the  country  having  flowing 
water  in  their  houses,  are  at  a  loss  how  to  dis¬ 
pose  to  the  best  advantage  of  the  waste  water, 
which  usually  carries  off  all  the  slops  and  waste 
of  the  household.  An  ordinary  cesspool,  only 
stoned  up,  in  a  disagreeable  spot,  and  in  time 
becomes  filled  and  useless,  an  evil  which  is 
usually  remedied  by  making  a  new  one  some¬ 
where  else.  This  method  of  disposing  of 
waste  water  involves  also  the  almost  total  loss 
of  all  the  fertilizing  elements  contained  in  it,  a 
consideration  which  is  yearly  becoming  of 
greater  importance  as  the  difficulty  of  obtaining 
manures  increases.  To  avoid  these  evils  the 
following  plan  has  been  tried  by  a  gentleman 
of  our  acquaintance  with  perfect  success  thus 
far,  after  more  than  a  year  of  actual  operation. 
His  cesspool  is  near  liis  house,  and  is  of  brick, 
built  just  like  an  ordinary  cistern.  It  has  a 
manhole  (F)  covered  with  a  flag-stone,  which, 
is  cemented  down  and  covered  with  several 
inches  of  soil.  The  discharge  from  it  is  by  a 
2i-inch  lead  pipe  (G),  the  lower  end  of  which  is 
as  near  the  centre  of  the  cistern  as  possible.  The 
upper  end  is  bent  down  so  as  to  form  a  syphon 
for  about  s.ix  inches  of  its  length,  and  leads  into 
a  glazed  pipe  drain  (H),  cemented  at  the  joints. 
This  discharges  into  the  bottom  of  a  barrel 
(J)  set  in  the  ground  near  the  centre  of  his 


CESSPOOL. 

garden.  The  operation  of  this  device  is  very 
simple  and  satisfactory.  The  discharge  from 
the  cesspool  is  through  the  lead  pipe,  the  lower 
end  of  which  is  above  any  sediment,  and  below 
any  floating  substance  that  can  clog  it.  Noth¬ 
ing  is  discharged  till  the  cesspool  is  filled  to  (K) 
the  highest  point  of  the  pipe,  and  then  a  steady 
stream  flows  until  the  level  is  brought  down  to 
the  lowest  point  of  the  syphon.  There  can 
be  no  dribbling  stream,  and  therefore  any 
thing  that  may  possibly  enter  the  pipe  is  car 
ried  along  with  the  flow,  and  the  pipe  and  drain 
are  always  clean.  A  pump  may  be  set  in  the 
cesspool  by  wiiicli  it  can  be  be  pumped  out  if 
more  of  its  contents  are  needed  in  times  of 
drought  than  naturally  overflow.  Should  the 
sediment  ever  rise  so  as  to.  clog  this  pump,  the 
manhole  can  be  opened  and  the  sediment  dip¬ 
ped  or  pumped  out,  to  aid  which  a  depression  (D) 
is  made  in  the  centre  of  the  floor  of  the  cess¬ 
pool.  The  barrel  set  in  the  ground  furnishes  a 
constant  convenient  supply  for  watering  the 
garden  or  the  overflow  may  be  conducted  so 
that  it  will  greatly  enrich  the  adjacent  soil. 
Such  a  cistern  as  this  will  pay  for  itself  very 
soon,  if  it  is  on  the  place  of  any  man  who  will 
make  good  use  of  the  liquid  manure  furnished. 
Nine  out  of  ten  of  those  who  have  small  places 
and  keep  no  stock,  have  poor  gardens  because 
it  is  so  difficult  and  expensive  to  get  good  ma¬ 
nure.  The  waste  of  their  own  houses  is  prob¬ 
ably  abundant  for  an  acre  or  two  of  a  garden, 
with  fruT  trees  and  lawns  in  addition. 


Fig.  2.--MOLD-BOAUD  VIEW. 


246 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Auqttbt, 


Different  Modes  of  Binding  Grain. 


In  binding  grain  each  end  of  the  b.and  is,  or 
should  be,  always  held  projecting  from  the  closed 
hand  on  the  side  of  the  thumb  and  forefinger. 
There  are  in  common  use  not  less  than  three 
different  modes  of  binding.  One  is,  passing 
the  right-hand  end  over  the  thumb,  with  a 
double  twist  and  tuck ;  the  next  is,  passing  it 
under  the  wrist  with  a  double  twist  and  tuck ; 
and  the  third  is  passing  it  beneath  the  left  hand, 
making  a  nip  about  the  left-hand  end  and  tuck 
beneath  it,  or  in  common  parlance,  “nip  and 
tuck.”  Sometimes  binding  over  the  thumb  is 
performed  with  a  single  twist  and  tuck.  But, 
when  bound  in  this  manner,  unless  the  bands 
are  drawn  very  tightly,  sheaves  are  liable  to 
unbind,  which  is  very  disagreeable. 

The  most  expeditious  way  of  binding  is  “over 
the  thumb.”  This  is  done  by  putting  the  left 
knee  on  the  sheaf,  as  shown  on  the  foreground 
of  the  harvesting  scene  on  page  248,  pressing  it 
closely  together,  then  drawing  with  the  right 
hand  as  tightly  as  practicable,  catch  the  right- 
hand  band  with  the  forefinger  of  the  left  hand, 
while  the  left  hand  holds  the  other  end  of  the 
band  also.  Now  whirl  the  right-hand  end  of 
the  band  around  the  other  end  with  the  right 
hand,  giving  them  a  twist,  or  two  twists  which 
is  better,  and  tuck  them  under  the  band. 

The  accompanying  illustration  represents  a 
sheaf  of  oats  well  bound  over  the  thumb  with 
a  double  twist  and  tuck.  The  second  mode  of 
binding  is  done  with  the  left  knee  on  the  sheaf ; 
the  right-hand  end  of  the  baud  is  carried  under 
the  wrist  of  the  left  hand,  and  held  by  letting 
the  wrist  drop  upon  it,  until  the  two  ends  are 
twisted  together,  and  tucked  under.  Sheaves 
are  bound  in  the  “  nip  and  tuck”  style  by  passing 
the  end  of  the  band  in  the  right  hand  under 
the  left  hand,  then  holding  it  with  the  left  hand 
resting  on  it,  when  the  right  hand  releases  its 
hold,  and  renews  it  again  above  the  left  hand. 
Then  the  left-hand  end  of  the  band  is  broken 
over  towards  the  binder,  while  the  other  end  is 
brought  around  it  and  tucked  beneath  the  band 
on  the  side  towards  the  binder.  When  sheaves 
are  thus  bound,  the  left-hand  end  of  the  band 
forms  a  good  handle  for  carrying  the  sheaf. 

While  binding,  the  rake  handle  should  always 
rest  against  the  shoulder  of  the  binder.  This 
makes  it  easier  work  for  him,  than  to  lay  down 
and  pick  up  his  rake  at  every  sheaf.  As  soon  as  a 
sheaf  is  bound,  and  the  binder  straightens  his 
body,  his  rake  is  where  he  can  take  hold  of  it, 
without  stooping  to  pick  it  off  the  ground.  An 
active  man  will  rake  and  bind  one  thousand 
sheaves  in  twelve  hours,  which  is  an  ordinary 
day’s  work.  Suppose  that  it  consumes  two 
seconds  of  time  to  stoop  and  pick  up  his  rake  at 
each  sheaf,  he  must  necessarily  endure  the 
fatigue  of  picking  one  thousand  rakes  off 
the  ground,  which  will  consume  not  less 
than  thirty-three  minutes,  besides  the  useless 
fatigue.  During  that  length  of  time  he  would 
be  able  to  rake  and  bind  not  less  than  fifty 
sheaves,  not  a  little  saving  with  many  hands. 

Another  consideration  of  no  little  importance 
in  raking  and  binding  is,  to  make  the  sheaves 
of  a  uniform  size,  and  bind  them  as  nearly  in 
the  middle  as  possible.  When  they  are  bound 
too  near  the  tops,  the  bands  are  very  apt  to  slip 
off  while  the  sheaves  are  being  pitched.  If 
bound  too  near  the  buts,  the  heavy  heads  are 
liable  to  fall  in  different  directions,  when  they 
are  handled,  and  they  soon  unbind.  When 
some  sheaves  are  made  very  large  and  others 
small,  it  is  difficult  to  make  a  nice  stack  with 


them,  as  the  courses  will  not  be  smooth,  and  the 
buts  sufficiently  even  to  carry  off  the  rain  well. 
It  is  also  less  convenient  to  load  large  and 
small  sheaves  together,  as  well  as  to  set  them 
in  neat  and  smooth  shocks.  When  the  straw  is 
long,  and  not  very  green,  there  is  an  advantage 
in  making  as  large  sheaves  as  a  man  can  bind, 
as  no  more  time  is 
consumed  in  mak¬ 
ing  a  band  for,  and 
binding  up  a  large 
sheaf,  than  a  small 
one ;  but  when  straw 
is  quite  green,  the 
sheaves  should  not 
be  made  very  large. 
In  order  to  make 
sheaves  of  a  uniform 
size,  the  gavels  from 
a  reaper  should  be 
dropped  off  evenly ; 

SHEAF  OF  OATS.  when  cradlers 

cut  swaths  of  equal  width,  there  will  be  no 
difficulty  in  making  sheaves  of  a  uniform  size, 
if  every  swath  is  raked  a  given  distance.  But 
when  one  cradler  cuts  a  swath  nine  feet 
wide,  and  another  six  or  seven,  as  is  frequently 
the  case,  if  both  swaths  are  raked  the  same 
distance,  the  sheaves  will  not  be  of  a  uniform 
size,  and  of  course  will  not  make  a  smooth 
stack,  or  an  even  mow. 


Raking  and  Binding. 

That  some  men  are  able  to  rake  and  bind  a 
swath  of  grain  as  fast  as  it  is  cradled,  and  per¬ 
form  tlie  work  well,  while  other  larger  and 
stronger  men,  by  working  hard,  can  not  rake 
and  bind  more  than  half  as  fast,  is  a  matter  of 
common  observation.  Why  it  is  so,  is  told  in  a 
few  words  :  They  do  not  know  how  to  do  it. 
It  is  not  strength  alone,  that  enables  a  man  to 
rake  and  bind  grain  very  fast,  but  the  essen¬ 
tials  are  skill,  and  quick  movements.  To 
rake  swaths  into  handsome  gavels  or  sheaves, 
having  square  buts,  and  not  twice  as  long  as  the 
straw,  requires  a  hand-rake  with  long  teeth,  as 
described  and  illustrated  on  page  210  last 
month.  Then,  instead  of  rolling  a  gavel  over 
and  over,  keep  one  foot  and  leg  constantly 
against  the  buts,  and  move  it  along  as  the  rake 
slides  the  gavel.  Always  keep  the  head  of  the 
rake  parallel  with  the  gavel,  as  this  will  pre¬ 
vent  its  running  out  longer  than  the  straw. 
When  a  rake  with  short  teeth  is  used,  if  a  man 
has  not  strength  to  slide  the  gavel  along,  it  must 
be  rolled,  which  is  a  slow  process.  Some 
rakers  attempt  to  even  the  buts  of  gavels  with 
the  rake;  but  this  consumes  too  much  time. 

Some  binders  always  grasp  a  handful  of  straw 
near  the  middle  of  the  gavel  at  the  heads.  This 
is  objectionable,  as  it  frequently  makes  the 
sheaf  longer.  Some  separate  a  handful  of  straw, 
and  tie  the  tops  in  a  square  knot ;  this  requires 
too  much  time.  By  others  the  band  is  laid 
across  the  gavel,  when  each  hand  grasps  one 
end  of  a  band,  and  raising  the  gavel  at  the  same 
time,  they  turn  it  over  and  bind  it ;  but  this  is 
an  awkward  and  slow  way  to  bind.  Others  di¬ 
vide  the  band  below  the  hand  that  grasps  it 
near  the  heads,  then  bend  all  the  heads  over  to 
one  side,  and  bring  up  one  end  of  the  band  over 
them  and  place  the  thumb  on  it.  This  manner 
of  making  a  band  requires  more  time,  and  the 
lock  is  very  apt  to  slip  when  binding.  The  best 
and  most  expeditious  way  to  make  a  band  is, 
to  take  a  small  handful  from  the  top  of  the  gav¬ 
el,  and  while  separating  it,  hold  back  other 


straws  with  the  other  hand ;  then  grasp  it  with 
the  left  hand  a  little  below  the  heads,  and  di¬ 
viding  the  straw  with  the  other  hand,  take  the 
half  of  the  band  at  the  right  side,  carry  it 
quickly  to  the  left  side  of  the  other  half,  so  that 
the  left  half  will  rest  on  the  back  of  the  right 
hand.  Now  elevate  the  right  hand  above  the 
left,  thus  throwing  the  but  ends  of  the  branches 
of  the  band  into  the  air  above  both  hands. 
Pass  the  portion  of  the  band  in  the  right  hand 
around  all  the  heads  of  grain,  and  place  the 
right  thumb  on  them,  and  the  lock  will 
never  separate  when  binding,  if  it  is  well 
made.  Next,  with  the  band  in  the  right 
hand,  throw  it  forward  of  and  around  the 
gavel,  while  the  left  hand  is  passed  beneath 
the  opposite  side,  palm  upward,  grasping  the 
band  in  such  a  manner  that  its  hold  need  not 
be  relinquished  until  the  sheaf  is  bound.  When 
the  hand  grasps  the  band  so  that  the  hold  must 
be  relinquished  and  renewed,  it  often  occupies 
time  enough  to  finish  binding  the  sheaf.  When 
the  right  hand  is  passing  the  band  around  the 
bundle,  if  the  stubble  is  sharp  and  stiff,  keep 
the  band  beneath  the  palm.  By  this  means  the 
tender  skin  on  the  back  of  the  fingers  and  hand, 
will  be  protected  from  the  sharp  points. 


Western  Agriculture. 

A  LETTER  FROM  SCOTT  COUNTY,  IOWA. 


Editor  American  Agriculturist. 

It  seems  to  me  that  the  “West”  is  not  proper¬ 
ly  understood  either  by  its  own  people,  or  by 
our  eastern  friends.  We  regard  the  West  as 
“  King  ”  in  agriculture  and  the  East  as  being  a 
“  played  out”  region.  Per  contra,  the  East  con¬ 
siders  us  as  having  fertile  soil  and  cheap  lands, 
but  deficient  in  all  else.  I  believe,  that  each  can 
learn  from  the  other  much  that  would  be  bene- 
ficient.  The  letter  from  “Western  Bo jV’ and 
your  comments  thereon,  in  your  July  number, 
seem  to  open  the  wmy  for  a  few  remarks  about 
western  farms  and  farming  operations.  Passing 
over  the  usual  panegyrics  on  our  golden  prairies, 
inexhaustible  fertility,  etc.,  the  plain  fact  re¬ 
mains  that  western  farmers  need  instruction  on 
as  many,  though  perhaps  not  the  same,  points 
as  do  those  of  less  favored  regions.  What  we 
of  the  West  need  is,  the  appreciation  of  the 
necessity  of  system  and  judicious  methods  in 
our  labors.  The  majority  of  western  farmers, 
who  are  to-day  richer  than  when  they  came 
here,  have  made  their  profit  in  the  increased 
market  value  of  their  lands.  Few  have,  on  aver¬ 
age,  been  able  each  year  to  show  a  tangible 
profit  on  their  crops.  We  occasionally,  as  in 
1856 — 1857  and  1863 — 1864,  have  seasons  in 
which  good  crops  and  high  prices  combine  to 
our  advantage,  and  in  such  years  it  is  not  un¬ 
usual  for  our  farms  to  yield  a  profit  equal  to 
their  total  market  value.  I  have  known  many 
instances  where  farms  have  cleared  their  cost  in 
one  year,  but  a  close  observation  in  the  richest 
and  best  county  of  Iowa,  through  the  last  ten 
years,  shows  that  as  a  class  our  fiirmers  are  but 
little,  if  any,  better  off  than  when  they  began. 
I  say  this  is  the  case,  but  in  justice  to  the  West, 
I  ought  also  to  say  that  this  need  not  be  the 
case,  and  it  is  to  the  latter  result  that  the  teach¬ 
ings  of  the  Agriculturist  could  exert  a  power¬ 
ful  and  wide  spread  influence.  Our  farmerft 
need  special  and  urgent  admonitions  against — 
first,  attempting  to  cultivate  too  much  land; 
second,  cultivating  too  many  acres  of  one  pro¬ 
duct  ;  and  third,  neglecting  to  take  good  care 
of  their  horses,  cattle,  and  farming  implements. 
These  three  are  the  leading  and  universal  fail- 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


247 


ings  of  all  westera  farmers.  Add  to  these,  the 
losses  from  neglect  of  rotation  of  crops,  care¬ 
lessness  in  selecting  and  preserving  seed  and 
ignorance  of  the  business  rules  which  are  as 
essential  to  successful  farming,  as  to  success  in 
any  other  occupation,  and  the  secret  of  our  oc¬ 
casional  “  hard  times”  is  disclosed.  Not  one  in 
ten  of  our  farmers  can  tell  the  cost  of  produc¬ 
tion  of  a  bushel  of  his  grain.  Few  can  cal¬ 
culate  the  pecuniary  difference  between  selling 
their  corn,  or  feeding  it  to  stock.  Fewer  still 
can  tell  the  distance  from  market,  at  which 
wheat  growing  ceases  to  be  profitable.  If  the 
Agriculturist  will  give  us  more  of  its  forcible 
and  practical  lessons  on  these  and  similar  topics, 
“Western  Boy”  and  many  others  will  admit 
that  the  American  Agriculturist  is  as  useful  to 
us  as  to  the  rest  of  mankind.  C.  S.  W. 


Slaughter  of  Breeding  Animals. 

Several  times  during  the  prevalence  of  the 
temptingly  high  prices  which  have  prevailed 
of  late,  we  have  taken  an  opportunity  to  caution 
our  readers  against  slaughtering  their  cows  and 
ewes,  as  also  heifer-calves  and  ewe  lambs. 
These  cautions,  though  we  hope  useful,  have  been 
rendered  unnecessary  in  a  measure,  or  at  least 
strongly  urged  home  to  the  attention  of  farmers, 
by  the  high  prices  of  all  the  products  of  the 
dairy,  and  the  high  prices  of  wool  and  the  de¬ 
mand  for  sheep  for  breeding  purposes.  There 
are,  however,  some  extensive  grazing  districts 
(which,  by  the  way,  are  notorious  for  being 
backward  in  agricultural  progress,  and  for 
having  few  reading  farmers),  where  the  high 
prices  of  beef  have  tempted  farmers  to  part  with 
their  dry  cows  and  probably  other  stock,  in  the 
expectation  of  being  able,  as  usual,  to  supply 
themselves  again  from  droves  passing  from  the 
back-country  through  to  market.  In  this  they 
have  been  disappointed,  and  real  destitution  now 
prevails  which  may  seriously  embarrass  farming 
for  some  years  in  these  parts  of  the  country. 

The  Commissioner  of  Agriculture,  too  late, 
sounds  an  alarm.  The  poor  short-sighted  farm¬ 
ers  who  have  sold  their  cows  and  heifers  will 
not  enjoy  particularly  to  be  held  up  to  the  com¬ 
miseration  of  the  world,  whose  charity  they  do 
not  ask,  and  whose  pity  they  will  not  get.  (For 
who  ever  thought  of  wasting  sympathy  on  the 
boy  who  killed  the  golden-egg-laying  goose  ?)  W e 
make  a  few  quotations  from  the  Report  of  the 
Agricultural  Department  for  April  and  May; 

Mr.  Hamilton,  president  of  the  Pennsylvania 
State  Agricultural  Society,  writes:  “I  have 
been  for  some  time  seriously  concerned  at  the 
falling  off  and  derangement  of  agricultural 
products,  particularly  in  the  important  one  of 
cattle.  It  cannot  be  overlooked  by  the  most 
casual  observer,  that  from  the  immense  slaughter 
and  waste  consequent  upon  the  supply  of  animal 
food  for  the  army  and  navy,  whilst  importing 
and  breeding  are  at  a  stand-still,  the  most 
strenuous  efforts  will  be  necessary,  on  the  part 
of  the  farmer,  to  prevent  an  absolute  scarcity, 
particularly  in  the  product  of  beef-cattlc,  and 
that  beef  must  soon  be  sold  at  rates  that  but 
few  will  be  able  to  afford.  The  high  prices  at 
present  offered  by  butchers  have  tempted  farm¬ 
ers  to  part  with  their  largest  and  best  formed 
cows,  which  under  different  circumstances  would 
have  been  retained  for  breeding,  and  the  most 
healthy  and  vigorous  heifer  calves  have  been 
sold  to  them.  From  this  cause  most  farms  ex¬ 
hibit  a  poor,  ungainly  stock  of  cattle  compared 
with  what  it  formerly  was.  Ohio,  Indiana,  Ken¬ 
tucky,  Illinois,  Missouri,  and  West  Vhginia,  on 


which  we  used  to  rely  for  supplies,  present 
limited  resources.” 

Jolm  .1.  Taylor,  of  Shelby  County,  Missouri, 
says :  “  I  see  from  your  reports  that  horses  and 
cattle  are  on  the  decrease.  Should  the  practice 
of  butchering  dry  cows,  as  it  has  been  done  in 
this  county,  become  general  over  the  West,  you 
may  expect  a  continued  decrease  in  cattle ;  and 
as  I  have  stood  on  the  streets  of  our  town  in 
the  fall  season  and  seen  drove  after  drove  of 
cows  driven  away  for  beef,  I  thought  a  law 
ought  to  be  passed  to  limit  this  trade.” 

E.  F.  Lucas,  of  Warren  County,  Indiana, 
writes  that  “the  usual  increase  of  cattle  has 
fallen  off,  owing  to  so  many  of  the  best  graded 
cows  having  been  killed  and  packed  into  barrel 
beef  the  hast  two  years.” 

The  Commissioner  .adds :  “  But  with  the  war 
now  at  an  end,  and  with  scarcely  any  foreign 
demand  for  breadstuffs,  a  change  M’ill  t.ake  place, 
and  deficiencies  in  our  farm  stock  will  be  filled 
up.  To  supply  the  loss  of  cattle,  the  first  step 
will  be  to  increase  the  number  of  cows.  This 
must  be  done  in  two  wa3's — to  stop  their 
slaughter  for  beef,  an  evil  and  a  wrong  justly 
condemned  by  our  Missouri  correspondent,  and 
to  raise  more  of  the  heifer  c.alves.  For  a  time 
the  dairy  establishments  of  the  western  reserve 
and  other  localities  should  cease  from  their 
usual  practice  of  turning  a  cow  on  grass  to  be 
fattened  when  her  milk  product  ceases  to  be 
profitable.  That  must  be  restored  by  breeding, 
and  not  by  the  purchase  of  another  and  the 
slaughter  of  the  one  nearly  dry.” 

The  love  of  money  often  induces  men  to  work 
their  own  injury,  with  their  eyes  open.  This  is 
generally  with  the  expectation  that  they  will  be 
able  to  find  some  way  of  avoiding  the  conse¬ 
quences.  There  is  no  doubt  but  the  rise  in  the 
value  of  meats  affected  first  the  beef  stock,  then 
1  and  2-year  old  steers  and  young  working 
cattle,  and  finally  the  milchcows,  so  that  any 
one  who  had  fat  dry  cows  was  very  apt  to  sell 
them  at  one  time ;  but  almost  at  the  same  time 
with  the  rise  in  beef,  butter  and  cheese  brought 
“  gold  prices,”  and  were  bought  in  great  quan¬ 
tities  for  exportation.  This  gave  the  cows  a 
great  value  independent  of  their  worth  for  beef. 
That  the  number  of  cows  in  the  great  dairy 
regions  of  the  country  has  decreased,  we  do  not 
believe,  but  on  the  contrary,  so  far  as  we  can 
ascertain,  it  has  increased.  Veals,  however, 
have  been  to  a  great  extent  Indiscriminately 
slaughtered,  and  many  a  nice  heifer  c.alf  we  see 
daily  in  the  shambles  which  in  two  or  three 
ye.ars  will  be  greatly  wanted  on  the  farm. 

To  a  considerable  extent  is  it  true  also  that 
fine  stylish  large  mares  are  sold  to  the  city  and 
the  small  or  ill-formed,  pot-bellied,  hollow- 
backed  ones  are  kept  to  raise  colts.  The  fruit 
will  be  like  the  tree,  aud  in  the  long  run  it  will 
surely  pay  to  keep  one’s  stock  up  by  retaining 
the  best  anim.als  for  breeding.  The  great  con¬ 
sumption  of  beef  in  the  army  has  in  a  measure 
ceased,  but  there  being  in  several  districts  a  de¬ 
mand  for  breeding  animals,  and  for  those  to 
fatten,  no  doubt  prices  of  beef  and  mutton  will 
be  high  for  some  time  to  come — so  high  indeed 
that  few  if  any  more  profitable  branches  of 
farm-industry  can  be  followed  than  buying  and 
fattening  cattle  and  sheep,  but  don’t  fatten  the 
cows  and  ewes,  nor  neglect  to  keep  up  the  stock 
on  the  farm.  It  is  very  poor  policy  to  attempt 
to  feed  more  than  can  be  well  wintered,  but 
present  prospects  are  favorable  for  our  being 
able  to  winter  more  stock  than  ever  before  in 
the  history  of  farming  in  this  country.  The 
hay  crop  so  far  as  heard  from  East  and  West, 


is  remarkably  good,  and  generally  well  secured^ 
corn  and  roots  also  promise  remarkably  well. 

—  -  —  I  — »  «- 

The  Harvest. 


Our  artists  have  furnished  us  another  chapter 
in  the  “  Pictorial  History  of  the  Loaf  of  Bread.” 
Page  152  told  the  story  of  the  Seed  Time, — 
how  the  ground  was  enriched,  and  plowed  and 
pulverized,  and  how  the  seed  was  drilled  in,  or 
sowed  broadcast  and  then  harrowed  and  rolled ; 
and  besides,  there  too  wo  have  the  hint  given 
that  grain  crops  precede  grass,  for  behind  the 
harrow  the  grass  seed  is  cast,  and  when  the 
grain  is  cut,  the  yellow  stubble  will  soon  be  con¬ 
cealed  by  its  cheerful  green. 

This  month,  appropriate  to  the  season,  we 
have  T fie  Harvest.  The  whole  group  of  scenes 
will  repay  study,  equally  for  the  picturesque 
effect  of  the  whole,  and  lh<at  of  each  one  viewed 
by  itself,  for  the  excellence  of  the  figures,  the 
naturalness  of  the  attitudes,  and  the  life  and 
motion  they  exhibit,  and  for  the  faithfulness 
with  which  the  different  means  of  harvesting 
and  final  securing  of  the  grain,  either  for  the 
market  or  the  miller,  are  portrayed. 

Time  was  (not  very  long  ago  either)  when 
all  the  grain  in  this  country  was  reaped  by  the 
sickle ;  work  at  which,  at  this  day,  over  a  great 
part  of  Europe,  women  find  constant  and  lucra¬ 
tive  employment  during  harvest  time.  Ever 
since  the  days  of  Boaz  and  Ruth,  and  doubtless 
for  a  long  time  before,  the  hand-gleaners  fol¬ 
lowed  the  reapers,  picking  up  the  stray  heads 
and  the  down  trodden  and  over-looked  ones. 
Each  reaper  cutting  handful  by  handful  gathered 
his  or  her  armfuls  and  laid  them  in  the  gavel, 
till  it  was  enough  for  a  sheaf,  and  then  bound 
it.  Slow,  back-breaking  work.  How  different 
this,  from  the  sweep  of  the  cradles  as  lusty 
arms  swing  them  through  the  falling  grain, 
sometimes  m.aking  a  cut  of  8  or  9  feet,  and 
laying  each  clip  evenly  in  the  swath.  Voice¬ 
lessly  perhaps  the  cradlers  go,  but  the  simul¬ 
taneous  rush  of  the  several  scythes  through 
the  sonorous  straw  is  one  of  the  most  inspiring 
sounds  of  the  harvest  field,  especi<ally  w'hen  it 
begins  anew  after  the  musieal  rip-rap  rip-rap 
of  the  whetstone.  Here  the  labors  are  divided, 
one  party  cuts,  and  another  set  of  active  hands 
does  the  binding. 

Even  this  is  slow  and  tedious,  and  with  the 
will  to  do  it  faster,  came  the  way.  The  clat¬ 
tering  reaper  now  swoops  around  the  field,  and 
by  its  automaton  rake  delivers  the  gavels  ready 
for  binding  upon  the  short-cut,  even  stubble,  as 
fast  as  horses  ean  walk.  Many  binders  find 
enough  to  do  to  keep  up  with  the  single  man 
with  the  reaping  machine.  In  the  thrashing 
scenes  we  see  a  similar  eontrast,  horses  and  iron 
supplanting  human  muscle.  Such  has  been  the 
advance  of  the  past  few  years,  and  this  is  only 
a  sample  of  the  progress  in  other  departments, 
not  only  of  agricultural  theory  and  practice, 
but  also  in  other  arts  of  life  and  peace,  and — for 
how  sadly  do  many  realize  it — in  the  arts  of  war. 

The  nation  returns  now  to  peace,  and  peace¬ 
ful  arts  will  prosper  as  never  before.  We  may 
look  for  great  advancement  in  farming  practices, 
but  do  not  let  us  go  too  fast.  The  heading 
harvesters  so  much  approved  where  crops  are 
great  and  hands  are  few,  and  straw  of  little 
value,  though  surprisingly  expeditious  and  ex¬ 
cellent  in  their  operation,  are  adapted  to  only  a 
limited  area  of  country.  This  will  doubtless  be 
narrowed  year  bj’'  year  until  they  will  be 
counted,  with  wooden  plows,  and  we  may  al¬ 
most  say  sickles,  among  the  fossils  of  agriculture. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


349 


fig.  1.— ROOTS  CRAMPED  IN  POT  CULTURE.  • 

Tbe  Eoots  of  Vines  in  Pot  and  Open  Cul¬ 
ture. 


It  is  generally  conceded  that  the  best  young 
grape  vines  are  those  raised  from  cuttings  of  a 
single  eye.  These  are  started  by  artificial  heat 
in  pots  or  boxes  of  pure  sand,  and  when  roots 
have  fairly  formed,  they  are  potted  in  a  soil 
which  will  aSord  nourishment  to  the  young 
plants.  Some  varieties,  such  as  the  Delaware, 
can  not  be  successfully  propagated  without  the 
aid  of  heat,  and  all  are  managed  with  more 
certainty  by  its  aid.  In  the  ordinary  way  of 
treatment,  the  cuttings,  after  they  have  root¬ 
ed  and  commenced  to  grow,  are  placed  singly  in 
2j  or  3-inch  pots  of  properly  prepar¬ 
ed  soil,  and  when  the  roots  have  filled 
these,  a  shift  is  made  to  larger  pots, 
the  plants  usually  receiving  two 
shifts  to  larger  pots  during  the  sea- 
J  1  son.  If  the  shift  be  made  at  the 
proper  time,  i.e.,  as  soon  as  the  roots 
/  ^  reach  the  sides  of  the  pot,  plants  with 

[  good  roots  may  be  grown  in  this 

'  ^  way.  But  it  often  happens,  especial¬ 
ly  where  propagation  is  conducted  on 
a  large  scale,  that  the  change  to  lar¬ 
ger  pots  can  not  be  made  at  just  the 
right  time,  and  the  roots  finding  their 
direction  stopped  by  the  sides  of  the 
pot  are  bent,  and  even  have  their 
growing  points  turned  inward  to- 


avail  themselves  of  the  new  supply  of  soil,  as 
their  growth  has  received  direction  away  from 
the  new  earth.  The  consequence  is  that  a  new 
set  of  root  fibres  is  pushed  out  from  the  twisted 
mass  of  roots;  these  grow  out  toward  the  pot, 
and  if  neglected,  will  repeat  the  operation  of  be¬ 
ing  directed  from  their  natural  course,  and  will 
be  twisted  and  bent  as  ivere  the  first  set  of  roots. 
If  this  continues  as  is  sometimes  the  case  through 
all  the  successive  shifts  of  the  vine,  there  will 
be  at  the  end  of  the  season  a  mass  of  contorted 
tangled  roots,  which  from  having  received  sev¬ 
eral  checks  in  their  growth,  are  very  difficult  to 
manage  when  the  vine  comes  to  be  planted  in 
the  open  ground.  Fig.  1,  is  a  diagram  repre¬ 
senting  a  section  through  a  pot  containing  roots 
which  have  been  thus  neglected :  the  lines  A  and 
B  show  the  size  of  the  smaller  pots  in  which  the 
roots  had  been  grown  and  cramped.  To  avoid 
this  unnatural  condition  of  the  root,  some  of  our 
best  growers  have  discarded  the  potting  system 
altogether,  and  transfer  the  young  plants  direct¬ 
ly  from  the  cutting  pots  in  which  they  are  start¬ 
ed  to  a  border  which  is  prepared  in  a  green¬ 
house,  or  out  of  doors,  covered  with  sash  after 
the  manner  of  a  hot-bed.  In  this  way  the  roots 
are  free  to  grow  in  a  natural  manner  without 
receiving  the  several  checks  to  which  they  are 
liable  in  the  potting  system,  and  as  the  root 
and  vine  bear  a  direct  relation  to  one  another, 
the  plants  thus  started  show  a  better  growth 
both  above  and  below  ground.  The  roots 
of  a  vine  thus  treated  are  shown  in  fig.  2. 

The  Sheep  Laurel. — {Kalmia  angustifoUa.) 


Fig.  2. — ROOTS  GROWN  IN  OPEN  BORDER, 


ward  the  center  of  the  ball  of  earth  where  they 
form  a  twisted  and  tangled  mass.  When  roots 
in  this  condition  are  transferred  to  a  larger  pot, 
it  is  evident  that  they  are  not  in  a  condition  to 


This  plant,  which  is  common  on  hill  sides  and 
in  pastures  all  over  the  countr)',  is  known  by 
the  names.  Sheep  Laurel,  Lambkill,  and  Dwarf 
Laurel.  It  is  a  small  evergreen  shrub,  about  2 
feet  high,  with  slender  branches.  The  leaves 
are  light-green,  pale  on  the  under  side,  and  of 
the  size  and  shape  shown  in  the  engraving, 
which  represents  a  flowering  branch  of  the  nat¬ 
ural  size.  The  flowers  are  crimson,  and  though 
not  particularly  showy,  are,  upon  close  inspect¬ 
ion  curious  and  beautiful.  In  common  with 
that  of  the  other  species  of  the  genus,  the  cup¬ 
shaped  corolla  has  ten  depressions  or  cavities, 
in  which,  when  the  flower  first  opens,  the  an¬ 
thers  of  the  ten  stamens  are  caught,  thus 
bending  the  stamen  over  like  a  bow;  when 
touched,  the  anther  is  dislodged  from  the  cavity 
in  the  petal,  and  being  released  springs  up  to¬ 
wards  the  pistil  where  it 
sheds  its  pollen.  When 
the  anther  is  perfectly  de¬ 
veloped  this  movement 
occurs  spontaneously.  We 
notice  this  shrub  on  ac¬ 
count  of  its  alleged  poi¬ 
sonous  effects  when  eaten 
by  sheep.  The  very  gen¬ 
eral  impression  that  it 
possesses  poisonous  qual¬ 
ities  is  indicated  by  two 
of  the  popuiar  names 
quoted  above,  but  after  a 
pretty  diligent  search  for 
authentic  statements  in 
regard  to  its  deleterious 
qualities,  we  find  the  ac¬ 
counts  very  vague  and  un¬ 
satisfactory.  Mr.  Morrell, 
author  of  a  work  on  sheep,  however,  positive¬ 
ly  asserts  that  it  is  poisonous,  and  overcomes  its 
effects  by  gagging  the  animal.  It  would  be  in¬ 
teresting  to  know  more  about  the  effects  of  the 


plant,  and  how  fiir  it  is  fatal  when  no  remedial 
measures  are  taken.  From  the  antidotes  pub¬ 
lished  from  time  to  time  by  the  agricultural  pa¬ 
pers,  we  infer  that  it  is  at  most  a  weak  poison, 
as  they  are  generally  the  mildest  of  remedies  or 


quite  inert.  A  list  of  the  proposed  antidotes 
comprises  things  quite  unlike  and  of  contrary 
effect.  Besides  the  gagging  noticed  above,  we 
find  recommended:  roasted  onions  and  milk, 
lard,  salt,  mountain  dittany,  white  of  eggs,  cas¬ 
tor-oil,  pennyroyal,  coffee,  and  lastly — for  it 
properly  comes  at  the  end — a  muskrat’s  tail. 
Concerning  this  we  extract  the  following  from 
a  recent  number  of  the  New  England  Farmer  : 

“My  remedy  for  poisoned  sheep  or  lambs, 
which  never  fails,  is,  to  take  a  muskrat’s  tail 
and  cut  it  fine,  say  i-inch  long,  and  steep  it 
until  soft,  in  hot  water,  (half  a  pint  of  water  to 
one  tail) ;  when  cool  give  a  tablespoonful  at  a 
time,  once  an  hour,  until  your  sheep  will  jump 
up  and  run.  I  have  seen  sheep  and  lambs  that 
lay  three  days  unable  to  get  i;p,  made  appa¬ 
rently  as  well  as  ever,  by  a  few  doses.” 

We  should  think  that  a  sheep  would  jump  up 
and  run  from  muskrat  soup  if  it  had  any  life 
left  it.  We  are  not  informed  w'hether  the  po¬ 
tency  of  the  remedy  would  be  increased  by 
chopping  the  tail  finer,  or  what  should  be  the 
precise  age  of  the  animal  from  which  the  tail  is 
taken. — The  generic  name,  Kalmia,  was  given 
in  honor  of  Kalm,  a  Swedish  botanist  of  the 
last  century ;  angustifolia  means  narrow-leaved. 


950 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Auodw, 


Fiff.  1. 


The  Field  Horse-Tail. — {Equisetum  arvense.) 

Under  the  name  of  Pine-Weed,  and  Low  Pine, 
the  Field  Horse-Tail  has  been  of  late  consider¬ 
ably  discussed  by  the  agricultural  journals  and 
inquired  about  by  our  correspondents.  The  in¬ 
terest  in  the  matter  arises  from  the  fatal  effects 
upon  horses  which  have  been  ascribed  to  it. 
As  some  of  those  who  have  written  upon  the 
subject  have  been  talking  about  a  widely  differ¬ 
ent  plant,  the  Mare’s-Tail,  we  give  figures  of  the 
one  in  question,  Equisetum  arvense,  the  Field 
Horse-Tail.  The  common  name  in  this  case  is 
a  translation  of  the  botanical  one:  Equisetum  is 
from  the  Latin,  Equus,  a  horse  and  seta,  a  bris¬ 
tle,  and  refers  to  the  hair-like  character  of  the 
branches  of  some  species.  The  Horse-Tails  are 
what  botanists  call  cryptogamous  or  flowerless 
plants,  as,  like  the  ferns,  mosses,  etc.,  they  have 
no  true  flowers  with  stamens  and  pistils,  and 
they  do  not  produce  seed,  but  in  its  place 
spores,  which  are  very  small  round  bodies,  like 
dust,  by  means  of  which  the  plants  are  mul¬ 
tiplied.  The  species  under  consideration  pre¬ 
sents  two  forms  which  an  ordinary  observer 
would  never  take  to  belong  to  the  same  plant. 
In  damp  places  in  April  and  May  are  found 
numerous  simple  stems  like  fig.  1 ;  they  are  hol¬ 
low,  grooved,  of  a  light  brown  color,  and  hav¬ 
ing  at  each  joint  a  sort  of  sheath  of  a  darker 
color.  At  the  top  of  the  stem  is  a  head,  shaped 
like  a  pine-cone,  made  up  of  seales  which 
bear  the  spores  on  their  inner  surface.  These 
spores  are  very  curious  when  seen  under  the 
microscope.  When  dry  they  are  like  a  little 
ball  with  four  slender  arms  attached  to  it,  as  is 
represented  in  figure  2.  If,  while  one  looks 
at  these  spores  through  the  microscope,  anoth¬ 
er  person  breathes  very  gently  upon  them,  the 


arms  will  suddenly  coil  up  and  clasp  the  spore, 
the  movements  being  so  lively  that  the  whole 
appears  as  if  animated.  The  appearance  of  the 
spore  after  it  has  been  moistened  by  the  breath 
is  shown  in  fig.  3,  both  figures  being  of 
course  very  highly  magnified.  After  the  stems 
above  described  have  shed  their  spores,  they  die 
away  and  later  in  the  season  the  barren  ones 
appear,  which  are  green,  of  the  shape  of  fig.  4, 
and  are  eight  to  twelve  inches  or  more  high. 
These  as  well  as  the  fertile  ones  are  grooved 
and  hollow,  and  bear  at  the  joints  slender 
and  long  branches,  the  whole  having  so  much 
the  appearance  of  a  miniature  pine  tree  as  to 
suggest  the  popular  names  of  Low-pine  and 
Ground-pine.  With  regard  to  the  poisonous 
qualities  of  this  plant,  we  are  in  the  same  un¬ 
certainty  as  we  are  respecting  the  Sheep-Laurel 
noticed  in  another  article.  The  testimony  is 
most  conflicting,  some  saying  that  it  is  harmless 
to  all  domestic  animals  except  horses,  others 
that  it  harms  only  cattle  or  sheep,  and  others 
again  that  it  furnishes  in  some  places,  the  chief 
forage.  One  of  our  editors  has  for  many  years 
fed  his  horses  with  hay  containing  a  great 
amount  of  this  weed  without  perceptible  injury. 
With  regard  to  the  poisoning  of  ahimals  we 
are  inclined  to  be  a  little  sceptical,  as  their  in¬ 
stinct  generally  leads  them  to  avoid  injurious 
plants,  and  in  this  matter  as  well  as  with  many 
others  belonging  to  agriculture,  we  are  greatly 
in  need  of  some  Institution  where  the  point  can 
be  definitely  settled.  If  a  certain  plant  is  pois¬ 
onous,  its  effects  should  be  studied  and  its  prop¬ 
er  antidote  known ;  then  the  farmer  w'ould  not 
be  harboring  a  poisonous  plant,  nor  suspecting 
an  innocent  one  as  the  cause  of  every  fit  of  in¬ 
digestion  his  animals  happened  to  have,  and 
he  would  not  waste  his  time  and  the  animal’s 


strength  by  trying  various  foolish  and  empirical 
remedies,  such  as  we  have  noticed  in  another 
place.  As  the  Horse-Tail  is  mostly  found  in  wet 
places,  draining  would  help  to  eradicate  it. 


For  the  American  Agriculturists 

Cranberry  Cultivation. 

BY  JOEL  H.  ROSS,  M.  D.,  TOM'S  RIVER,  N.  J. 

As  a  compound  of  truth  and  error  in  books 
and  periodicals  on  the  subject  of  cranberry 
culture  has  often  led  the  anxious  inquirer  astray, 
or  brought  him  to  a  stand-still,  it  may  not 
be  amiss  or  time  lost,  to  look  at  some  of  the 
landmarks  of  success — especially  at  the  present 
time,  when  so  many  with  little  or  no  knowledge 
of  the  business  are  engaging  in  it. 

The  cultivation  of  this  fruit  was  an  experi¬ 
ment  a  little  more  than  20  years  ago,  when  a 
man  at  Cape  Cod  happened  to  discover  that  a 
sgiall  cluster  of  wild  vines  growing  near  his 
house,  became  veiy  thrifty  where  the  wind  sif¬ 
ted  in  among  them,  clean  white  sand  from  an 
adjoining  bank.  This  discovery  led  to  an  ex¬ 
periment  which  settled  the  question  as  to  what 
should  be  done  with  those  neglected  and  hith¬ 
erto  almost  worthless  swamps,  and  soon  brought 
them  into  market  at  $100  per  acre.  The  suc¬ 
cess  that  followed,  with  here  and  there  a  failure 
for  want  of  information,  was  all  that  the  most 
enthusiastic  cultivator  could  have  expected. 
But  as  some  reader  may  say  “  success  ”  is  a  lit¬ 
tle  indefinite,  I  give  him  two  illustrations — one 
of  them  taken  from  Cape  Cod,  and  the  other 
from  my  own  county. 

In  the  summer  of  ’61 1  visited  the  Cape,  and 
for  a  time  enjoyed  the  hospitality  of  a  worthy 
old  ship  captain  who  had  forsaken  the  water 
and  taken  to  the  mud — a  reliable,  intelligent, 
cranberry-experimenting  pioneer,  and  from  him 
obtained  many  valuable  hints.  In  questioning 
him  a  little  about  the  net  profits  of  his  bog,  he 
modestly  replied,  “  I  had  rather  talk  about  my 
neighbors’  success  than  my  own.”  He  remark¬ 
ed  that  a  Mr.  Winslow  owned  two  acres  in  a 
certain  swamp,  and  being  very  anxious  to  put 
it  into  cranberries,  and  finding  it  difficult  to  do 
so  and  support  his  family  at  the  same  time, 
some  kind  neighbor  loaned  him  $300,  which 
enabled  him  to  accomplish  what  ne  so  much 
desired.  In  a  little  time  the  fruits  of  his  faith 
and  works  began  to  appear.  He  paid  off  his 
borrowed  money,  and  soon  left  the  widow  and 
little  ones  to  look  for  support  from  that  little 
two-acre  plot;  nor  did  they  look  in  vain.  Now 
for  the  result.  The  widow’s  worthy  neighbor, 
the  captain,  had  charge  of  her  bog  and  gave  me 
the  net  proceeds  of  one  year’s  crop.  Said  he, 
“her  bog  is  a  good  one,  but  nothing  e.\tra ;  her 
crop  last  year  was  a  good  one,  but  not  more 
than  half  as  large  as  has  been  gathered  here  ; 
neither  did  she  get  an  extra  price,  for  she  de¬ 
cided  to  sell  too  soon,  and  got  but  $ll  per  bar¬ 
rel  ;  whereas  a  little  later  I  sold  mine  for  $13. 
Yet  when  the  expenses  of  picking,  shipping  and 
selling  were  deducted,  the  Boston  commission 
merchant  returned  her  a  check  for  $l,40b.”  Now 
we  will  leave  those  who  have  little  faith  in  the 
profits  of  cranberry  culture,  to  devise  some 
other  way,  if  they  can,  in  which  that  man  could 
have  invested  his  $500  or  $600  to  better  advan¬ 
tage.  Suppose  she  annually  gets  but  half  that 
sum.  What  more  does  she  need  in  a  country 
town,  living  in  her  own  cabin  ? 

Mr.  John  Webb,  in  the  town  of  Jackson,  in 
this  county,  began  to  put  out  a  few  vines  about 
20  years  ago,  and  was  the  first  man  to  commence 
the  business  in  this  section.  He  labored  under 
many  disadvantages,  had  little  or  no  money, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


251 


few  to  encourage  him,  plenty  to  ridicule  and 
call  him  a  fool,  and  plenty  to  foretell  his  failure, 
and  although  he  had  but  one  leg,  with  that  he 
hobbled  on  and  over  all  the  stumbling  blocks 
which  the  kind-hearted  incredulity  of  his  neigh¬ 
bors  could  throw  in  his  way,  and  finally  suc¬ 
ceeded  in  getting  out  vines  from  time  to  time 
until  he  now  has  a  bog  of  ten  acres,  and  though 
it  is  smaller  than  many  now  in  our  county, 
yet  he  has  taken  from  it  I  know  not  how  many 
thousand  dollars,  but  enough  to  make  him 
measurably  independent,  and  he  was  recently 
offered  $9000  for  six  acres. 

Location  anb  Quality  of  Soil. — In  select¬ 
ing  a  spot  on  which  to  embark  in  this  business, 
four  things  should  be  kept  constantly  in  mind, 
namely :  climate,  location,  price  and  condition 
of  the  soil.  In  the  first  place,  success  very 
much  depends  upon  climate.  Cranberries  grow 
in  great  quantities  spontaneously  in  Wisconsin 
and  Minnesota.  But  they  are  an  uncerlain  crop 
there,  because  they  cannot  stand  frost  when  in 
blossom.  For  this  reason  Cape  Cod  cannot 
compete  with  New  Jersey,  and  also  because  she 
has  not  a  sufficient  supply  of  suitable  soil.  It 
begins  to  be  known  that  cranberries  are  a  bet¬ 
ter  fruit,  and  a  more  certain  crop  here  than 
they  are  East  or  West,  North  or  South  of  this 
State.  I  have  little  faith  in  dry  land  operations, 
and  will  here  notice  one  of  the  indispensable 
qualities  of  cranberry  soil,  and  answer  the  fre¬ 
quent  question,  “  will  they  do  well  on  upland  ?” 

I  answer  no,  if  it  has  not  a  moist  bottom. 
But  it  should  not  be  forgotten  that  some  up¬ 
land  is  really  wet.  They  can  be  made  to  grow 
to  some  extent  on  ordinary  garden  soil,  and  so 
can  rice.  But  they  don’t  belong  there ;  are 
never  found  growing  there  spontaneously;  and 
in  my  opinion  they  will  never  pay  there.  Some 
think  that  vines  may  succeed  in  such  soil  at 
some  future  time,  and  some  may  also  believe 
that  we  may  yet  find  sheep  and  shad  yoked  up 
together — a  profitable  team  on  dry  land  or  in 
the  ocean ;  but  I  don’t.  If  any  still  cling  to  the 
“  upland  ”  theory,  let  them  go  down  to  Cape 
Cod  and  call  on  Capt.  Cyrus  Cahoon,  of  the 
town  of  Harwich,  and  they  will  probably  get 
information  on  the  subject  which  will  be  satis¬ 
factory.  At  any  rate  the  Captain’s  experiments 
and  failures  were  a  lesson  to  me  that  I  shall  not 
soon  forget.  I  saw  some  of  his  vines  still  stand¬ 
ing  in  dry  sand,  although  he  had  settled  most 
of  the  ground  about  2  feet,  I  should  think,  by 
carting  off  the  sand  and  dumping  it  in  a  pond 
near  at  hand,  and  thus  he  “  killed  two  birds 
with  one  stone,”  by  improving  one  lot,  and  by 
raising  up  out  of  the  lake  another,  at  the  ex¬ 
pense  of  nearly  $700  per  acre,  which  he  con¬ 
sidered  a  good  investment.  In  answer  to  a 
question  about  upland  cultivation,  he  remark¬ 
ed  that  he  thought  the  vines  if  left  standing 
where  they  were,  would  cover  the  ground  in 
about  eight  years. 

While  speaking  of  the  characteristics  of  the 
soil,  we  may  as  well  answer  another  question, 
“Will  they  do  well  on  land  very  wet?”  No. 
They  may  yield  moderately,  but  not  well,  if 
they  do  not  fail  altogether.  I  must  again  refer 
the  reader  to  the  Captain’s  experience.  His 
first  experiment  was  a  failure  because  his  bog 
was  too  wet.  His  next  experiment  was  a  fail¬ 
ure  because  his  bog  was  too  dry.  His  third  ex¬ 
periment  was  a  perfect  success  because  his  bog 
was  just  rights  and  neither  wet  nor  drj'.  As 
for  my  own  experience  I  could  say  some¬ 
thing  about  upland  experiments,  if  it  were 
necessary,  but  I  will  here  say  a  word  about  the 
other  extreme.  I  put  out  seven  acres,  and  nev¬ 


er  got  a  berry,  and  abandonee!  the  whole  lot, 
because  I  could  not  drain  the  Atlantic  Ocean. 
Not  being  familiar  with  the  place,  nor  on  the 
spot  at  the  time,  I  was  not  aware  that  the  tide 
would  back  up  the  fresh  water  in  my  ditches 
so  that  I  could  not  sufficiently  drain  the  land. 

Another  question  is  often  asked,  namely: 
“  shall  we  sow  seeds  ?”  I  answer  no.  I  have 
tried  the  experiment  in  the  water  and  out  of 
the  water,  in  dry  land  and  wet  land,  in  pots 
and  in  the  soil,  subjected  to  frost  and  without 
frost,  and  have  had  a  few  seeds  germinate,  but 
have  never  matured  a  single  plant,  and  if  I  could 
succeed  it  would  not  pay,  for  three  reasons :  It 
takes  too  long  if  they  do  grow;  it  costs  too 
much  to  keep  the  grass  out  while  the  vines  are 
coming  in  to  take  and  keep  possession  of  the 
soil ;  and  finally  the  berries  for  planting  cost 
more  than  the  vines,  as  one  bushel  of  the 
former  will  buy  two  barrels  of  the  latter. 

Pbeparing  the  Ground. — The  first  thing 
called  for,  if  the  ground  be  wet,  is  drainage — 
ditches  of  sufiicient  depth,  wudth  and  number, 
to  thoroughly  drain  every  part  of  the  bog.  It 
often  happens  that  a  ditch  cut  on  the  line  be¬ 
tween  the  wet  and  the  dry  land  will  so  cut  off 
the  springs  which  run  in  from  the  high  sur¬ 
rounding  ground,  as  to  effectually  drain  the 
swamp.  Good  drainage  very  much  depends 
upon  this,  and  by  thus  wisely  locating  the 
ditches  much  labor  may  be  saved.  Grubbing 
is  the  next  step,  and  on  some  kinds  of  soil  it  is 
no  trifling  matter.  The  expense  of  preparing 
the  ground  for  the  vines  is  greatly  modified  by 
the  condition  of  the  soil  in  regard  to  roots, 
stumps,  etc.  There  is  so  much  difference  in 
this  respect,  between  savanna  lands  and  cedar 
swamps,  that  the  former  is  better  worth  $100, 
than  the  latter  is  worth  100  cents  per  acre. 
After  grubbing,  if  the  ground  have  a  tough  sod 
or  peaty  surface,  it  should  be  floated  (skinned) 
and  the  sods  burned  and  ashes  scattered,  or  the 
turf  may  be  carted  off  and  put  into  fence  or 
compost.  All  low  spots  must  be  filled  up  so 
that  water  will  readily  run  off.  When  the 
ground  is  cleared  of  every  thing  that  would  in¬ 
terfere  with  the  growth  of  the  vines,  ciean  sand 
free  fi'om  loam  is  wheeled  on  and  spread  to 
the  depth  of  2  to  6  inches.  The  ground  is 
then  ready  for  the  vines.  So  much  for  swamp 
preparation. — If  we  take  the  savanna  or  moist 
land  for  our  bog,  we  shall  have  a  much  easier 
task.  We  shall  have  less  ditching,  grubbing  or 
floating,  or  sanding,  perhaps  none,  for  such 
land  can  usually  be  plowed,  which  in  many 
cases  will  turn  up  sand  enough ;  and  there  will 
also  be  less  weeding.  Hence  it  is  very  easy  to 
discover  why  savanna  land  is  worth  $100  per 
acre  more  than  cedar  swamp,  let  the  price  of 
of  the  latter  be  what  it  may.  After  plowing 
thoroughly,  and  harrowing  and  raking  off  the 
roots,  etc.,  the  ground  is  usually  considered 
ready  for  the  vines,  which  are  set  in  stools, 
from  10  inches  to  3  feet  apart. 

I  will  now  briefly  notice  the  course  which  I 
am  determined  to  follow  in  preparing  the 
ground  in  future.  After  the  bog  is  ready  for 
the  plow,  I  shall  keep  the  plow  and  the  harrow 
on  it  for  one  entire  summer  and  also  most 
of  the  autumn,  and  longer  if  necessary,  giv¬ 
ing  an  interval  between  plowing  sufliciently 
long  to  encourage  the  germination  of  every 
seed  thus  brought  to  the  surface,  and  in  due 
season  again  apply  the  plow  and  harrow,  and 
thus  alternately  produce  vegetation  and  des¬ 
truction.  As  early  the  following  spring  as  the 
ground  will  admit,  the  land  should  be  made 
mellow  and  level,  and  should  if  necessary  be 


I  sanded,  and  then  it  is  I’eady  for  the  vines.  A 
diversity  of  opinion  about  the  proper  distance 
apart  for  vines  sometimes  bewilders  the  begin¬ 
ner,  but  I  am  satisfied  that  they  are  generally 
too  thickly  set.  I  put  out  3  acres  at  about  18 
inches  apart,  and  having  many  vines  left,  as  I 
did  not  get  my  ground  ready  for  them  as  I  ex¬ 
pected,  we  w'ent  over  the  lot  the  second  time, 
and  a  part  of  it  the  third  time,  and  consequent¬ 
ly  the  vines  were  very  thick,  and  I  supposed 
that  I  should  have  my  ground  covered  at  once 
with  both  vines  and  fruit.  The  result  was,  I 
had  too  many  runners,  and  too  few  hearers. 
The  next  spring  I  put  out  15  acres,  and  set  my 
vines  three  feet  apart,  which  was  a  great  saving 
of  vines  and  labor,  and  I  think  my  last  bog  will 
be  the  best  in  a  little  time.  One  of  my  neigh¬ 
bors,  an  intelligent  gentleman,  A.  A.  Stanton, 
Esq.,  who  owns  an  immense  tract  of  land  here, 
put  out  some  vines  last  season,  and  he  furrowed 
out  his  ground  3  feet  apart  each  way,  and  put 
in  his  vines  at  the  crossings  and  hauled  the  dirt 
on  to  them,  just  leaving  the  tops  a  little  out, 
and  I  never  saw  vines  do  better. 

Perhaps  I  should  notice  an  objection  that 
may  be  made  to  spending  so  long  a  season  in 
preparing  the  ground,  as  I  have  proposed 
above.  The  only  olijection  that  can  be  made 
is,  a  desire  to  save  time.  But,  a  little  experi¬ 
ence  in  saving  time  the  backward  wmy,  has 
somewhat  modified  my  ardor  for  being  in  a 
hurry.  At  the  commencement  of  my  boyish 
operations  I  too  thought  that  time  was  every¬ 
thing,  and  consequently  left  orders  to  have  5 
acres  put  out  as  soon  as  possible  and  returned 
to  my  residence  in  the  city.  What  was  the  re¬ 
sult?  It  was  hastily  made  to  look  like  a  cran¬ 
berry  bog,  and  people  began  to  congratulate 
me  on  being  able  to  retire.  Well,  it  being  un¬ 
usually  grassy  at  the  beginning,  there  was  at 
that  moment  from  10,000  to  12,000  living  grass 
roots  in  the  ground  to  one  cranberry  vine,  al¬ 
though  too  many  of  the  latter,  which  were  about 
18  inches  apart,  and  the  result  w'as  that  the  run¬ 
ners  soon  prevented  the  use  of  hoes,  and  much 
of  the  grass  could  not  be  pulled  up  by  the  roots, 
and  was  only  broken  off  to  grow  again  ;  and  after 
fighting  the  grass,  weeds  and  briers,  two  sea¬ 
sons,  I  became  ashamed  of  the  lot,  and  put  on 
a  force  to  see  what  could  be  done  toward  sub¬ 
duing  it,  and  the  result  was  that  20  days  work 
apparently  cleaned  up  20  square  rods,  at  which 
rate  it  would  have  cost  me  $1000  to  have  gone 
over  the  lot,  and  clearly  revealed  the  fact  that 
if  I  had  devoted  one  season  to  subduing  the 
bog  as  above  recommended,  I  should  have  been 
more  than  a  $1000  better  off,  twice  told ;  for 
where  I  should  have  gathered  500  bushels  of 
berries,  I  have  not  received  50,  nor  do  I  expect 
half  a  crop  on  that  field  until  it  is  le-set. 


A  New  Vine  Disease. — Last  season  there 
appeared  upon  the  vines  around  New  York  a 
disease  W'hich  has  this  season  showed  itself 
still  more  generally.  It  seems  to  attack  the 
Concord  in  preference  to  other  varieties,  and  if 
not  checked,  threatens  to  be  a  serious  matter  to 
vine  growers.  It  first  shows  itself  by  swellings 
on  the  freshly  formed  wood,  and  later  appears 
as  well  defined  blotches  with  a  surface  depres¬ 
sed  somewhat  below  the  general  surface  of  the 
stem.  The  growth  of  the  branch,  thus  affected, 
is  arrested  and  the  fruit  drops.  This  has  been 
attributed  to  wounds  made  by  the  common  Junc- 
bug,  but  this  can  hardly  be  the  case,  as  culti¬ 
vators,  who  have  carefully  watched  their  vines, 
assure  us  that  they  are  unable  to  discover  that 
insects  have  any  agency  in  the  matter. 


asa 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Atjgtjst, 


The  Double  Deutzia. 

The  Deutzia  scahra,  a  shrub  about  6  feet  high, 
and  Deutzia  gracilis, -which,  seldom  is  taller  than 
2  feet,  are  now  among  the  most  generally  culti¬ 
vated  shrubs.  They  are  from  Japan,  and  are 
tolerably  hardy,  and  from  the  profusion  of  pure 
white  flowers  they  bear,  are  deservedly  popular. 
Deutzia  crenata,  which  is  of  somewhat  later 
introduction,  has  the  general  habit  of  D.  scabra, 
but  difl'ers  in  the  shape  of  its  leaves  and  in 
some  of  the  details  in  the  structure  of  its  flow¬ 
ers.  Of  this  species  a  double  variety  has  been 
produced,  and  may  be  found  in  the  nurseries. 
One  of  the  flower  clusters  is  shown  in  the  draw¬ 
ing,  though  being  taken  late  in  the  flowering 
season,  it  is  not  as  showy  as  the  earlier  ones. 
The  Deutzias  are  all  easily  multiplied  by  re¬ 
moving  the  suckers  which  come  up  abundantly 
from  the  root,  though  better  plants  m.ay  be  ob¬ 
tained  from  layers.  Double  flowers  are  not 
always  an  improvement  upon  single  ones,  but 
they  are  so  in  the  case  of  the  Deutzia. 


Notes  on  Strawberries. 

The  report  of  the  Annual  Show  held  at  the 
offlce  of  the  Agriculturist  appeared  in  our  July 
issue  and  that  of  the  Exhibition  of  the  Ameri¬ 
can  Institute  has  been  given  in  the  daily  papers. 
Although  we  gave  quite  full  notes  on  varieties, 
there  remain  some  gleanings  of  our  observa¬ 
tions  made  since.  The  present  season  seems  to 
Lave  been  less  prolific  in  new  sorts  than  the 
last,  and  those  which  have  been  exhibited  were 
more  remarkable  for  size  than  for  quality.  We 
think  tliat  propagators  have  gone  quite  far 
enough  in  the  direction  of  size,  and  it  is  well  to 
rest  content  with  our  achievements  in  the  way 
of  large  fruit,  and  give  more  attention  to  quality. 
The  Agriculturist,  Russell,  and  Trioinphe  dc 
Gaud,  will  afford  specimens  large  enough  for 
the  present,  and  though  these  rank  as  first-class 
varieties,  we  hope  to  see  kinds  having  all  their 
good  qualities  in  an  increased  degree.  We 
would  not  be  understood  as  objecting  to  large 


berries — but  we  think 
that  there  is  a  ten¬ 
dency  to  attach  im¬ 
portance  to  dimen¬ 
sions,  to  the  neglect 
of  productiveness,  fla¬ 
vor  and  firmness. 
With  respect  to  the 
Agriculturist  Straw¬ 
berry,  the  present  sea¬ 
son  has  sustained  the 
opinion  expressed  last 
year,  that  it  combined 
more  good  qualities 
than  any  other  berry 
yet  introduced,  but 
we  stand  quite  ready 
to  welcome  any  va¬ 
riety  that  shall  excel 
it  in  any  particular. — 
It  is  a  matter  of  sur¬ 
prise  that  any  person 
having  land  should 
be  without  strawber¬ 
ries  enough  for  his 
family.  A  few  dollars 
will  get  plants  enough 
to  stock  a  bed,  and 
even  one  plant  will 
in  two  years’  time 
multiply  itself  sufii- 
ciently  to  plant  more 
than  an  ordinary  family  will  need.  A  res¬ 
idence  at  a  distance  from  nurseries  need  be  no 
hindrance,  as  plants  may  be  sent  cheaply  and 
■with  safety  by  mail.  A  note  just  received  from 
H.  E.  Hoke,  Franklin  Co.,  Pa.,  gives  an  account 
of  what  can  be  done  with  a  small  area  in  straw¬ 
berries.  “  Two  years  ago  I  planted  two  beds 
with  Wilson,  Triomphe  de  Gand,  and  Early 
Scarlet,  the  size  of  one  bed  18  feet  by  30  feet, 
the  other  20  feet  by  20  feet ;  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  was  140  quarts  from  both  beds ;  this  season 
they  turned  off  together  305  quarts,  the  large 
one  giving  132  quarts,  the  small  one  173  quarts ; 
the  large  bed  is  a  light  soil,  the  small  one  a  stiff 
heavy  clay,  both  being  well  manured.” 

La  Constante. — The  very  fine  specimens  of 
this  fruit  presented  on  the  second  day  of  our 
exhibition,  by  Geo.  Herbert,  of  Peekskill,  N. 
Y.,  merit  a  special  notice.  Nothing  can  be 
more  beautiful  in  color,  shape  aud  brilliancy  of 
surface  than  this  fruit.  Unfortunately  it  is  very 
variable  as  to  its  productiveness,  but  where  it 
does  well  it  is  a  first-class  fruit  in  every  respect 
It  forms  few  runners  and  propagates  slowl3^ 
Around  New- York  it  is  not  very  prolific,  but  it 
succeeds  much  better  in  some  other  localities. 

White  Pineapple. — A  variety  under  this  name 
Is  kept  in  some  collections,  while  others  consid¬ 
er  it  the  same  as  Lennig’s  White.  That  it  has 
also  been  called  Lennig’s  White  Pineapple 
would  go  to  show  that  they  are  the  same.  It  is 
asserted  that  the  White  Pineapple,  while  it  is 
not  distinguishable  in  its  fruit  from  Lennig’s 
White,  is  a  poorer  bearer  than  that  variety, 
and  also  that  the  vines  are  less  hardy.  We 
recently  saw  a  large  patch  which  was  set  last 
autumn  with  vines  obtained  as  White  Pine¬ 
apple,  bearing  remarlcably  well  for  such  young 
plants.  When  ripe,  the  fruit  has  a  fine  blush 
tinge,  is  of  excellent  flavor,  and  the  flesh  is  of 
a  buttery  consistence  which  make  it  a  great  fa¬ 
vorite  with  those  who  are  acquainted  with  it. 

DejHford  White. — This  has  been  sent  out  by 
some  dealers  as  Lennig’s  White,  but  is  quite 
distinct,  the  fruit  being  of  more  conical  shape 
and  of  a  less  delicate  flavor  than  that  variety. 


Toad-flax— A  Troublesome  Weed. 


Within  the  remembrance  of  many  of  our 
readers  there  was  a  plant  cultivated  in  gardens 
as  an  ornament,  which  bore  the  popular  name 
of  “Butter  and  Eggs.”  It  has  quite  disappear¬ 
ed  from  our  gardens,  but  has  taken  up  its  abode 
in  fields  and  meadows,  and  along  the  roadside 
where  it  not  only  flourishes  without  any  care, 
but  strongly  resists  the  efforts  made  to  get  rid 
of  it.  The  engraving  shows  the  upper  part  of 
a  stem  M'ith  the  flowers — the  whole  stem  being 
from  1  to  3  feet  high,  and  bearing  below,  long 
and  narrow  leaves  like  those  shown  in  the  fig¬ 
ure.  The  structure  of  the  flower  is  quite  curious 
and  will  repay  examination.  The  corolla  is 
tubular,  and  is  prolonged  beyond  the  calyx  into 
a  spur;  above,  it  is  2-lipped,  the  upper  lip  being 


TOAD-FLAX. 


split  in  two,  and  turned  back,  while  the  lower 
lip  is  divided  in  three,  and  bears  a  prominence 
or  swelling,  called  a  palate,  which  closes  up  the 
opening  of  the  corolla.  The  4  stamens  and 
the  pistil  are  quite  hidden  within  the  flower. 
The  pod,  instead  of  splitting  when  ripe,  opens 
one  or  two  holes  in  its  sides  to  allow  the  seeds 
to  fall  out.  The  leaves  are  of  a  pale  green,  the 
flowers  of  a  light  yellow  color,  except  the  pal¬ 
ate,  which  is  of  a  bright  orange.  This  contrast 
of  colors  doubtless  gave  origin  to  the  name 
“Butter  and  Eggs.”  But  the  most  important 
part  of  the  plant  is  the  root  which  is  woody, 
creeping,  and  very  tenacious  of  life,  qualities 
which  render  it  a  troublesome  weed.  Perhaps 
“troublesome”  is  a  rather  mild  word,  but  one 
of  our  correspondents  tpok  us  to  task  for  speak¬ 
ing  of  a  weed  as  “vile,”  and  thinks  it  wrong 
to  apply  epithets  of  this  kind  to  a  plant,  so  we 
will  not  say  of  this  weed  as  Doct.  Darlington 
very  truthfully  does — that  it  is  a  “  fetid,  worth¬ 
less  and  very  objectionable  weed.”  as  well  as  a 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ACRIGULTURIST. 


953 


“vile  nuisance.”  In  some  places  the  notion 
prevails  that  the  more  its  destruction  is  attempt¬ 
ed,  the  faster  it  spreads,  and  with  this  view 
pafclies  are  sometimes  left  in  the  fields  for  fear 
of  making  matters  worse  by  disturbing  them. 
Tlt.s  belief  has  some  foundation  in  fact,  and 
there  is  no  doubt  that  plowing  and  harrowing 
wir  break  and  scatter  the  roots,  every  piece  of 
whi-"!!  will  start  and  form  a  plant.  But  a  field 
iufe.“ted  with  this  or  similar  weeds  should  be 
kept  hi  hoed  crops  until  the  evil  is  exterminated. 
We  know  that  this  will  kill  the  Toad-Flax,  for  we 
liave  seen  it  done,  and  have  yet  to  see  the  weed 
that  can  long  resist  the  frequent  and  thorough 
application  of  a  sharp  hoe.  In  Pennsylvania 
the  plant  is  known  as  Ranstead-weed,  on  ac¬ 
count,  it  is  said,  of  its  introduction  there  by  a 
Mr.  Ranstead,  who  many  years  ago  cultivated 
it  in  his  garden.  The  name  Toad-flax  is  the 
one  by  which  the  plant  is  known  in  England, 
and  as  it  is  very  desirable  to  preserve  uniformity 
in  popular  as  well  as  botanical  names,  we  give 
it  the  preference  over  the  others. 


Soda  Wash  for  Fruit  Trees. 


Popular  errors  in  regard  to  scientific  matters 
die  very  hard  ;  they  have  more  lives  than  a  cat. 
This  is  especially  the  case  with  absurdities  put 
forth  by  men  who  know  little  of  science,  to  those 
who  know  nothing  at  all,  the  latter  accepting 
all  that  may  be  put  forth  by  the  former  as  “  law 
and  gospel.”  This  soda  wash  talk  was  made 
some  years  ago  by  “  Professor  ”  Mapes  at  the 
Farmers’  Club  of  the  American  Institute,  was 
published  in  their  proceedings,  and  has  been 
reproduced  by  agricultural  papers  which  ought 
to  know  better,  year  after  year.  The  directions 
to  make  the  wash,  required  sal  soda  to  be  heat¬ 
ed  to  redness  in  an  iron  vessel,  which  the  learn¬ 
ed  “  Professor  ”  said  would  drive  off  the  car¬ 
bonic  acid  and  leave  the  soda  in  a  caustic  state : 
this  was  then  to  be  dissolved  and  used  upon  the 
trees.  In  the  report  of  the  proceedings  of  a  re¬ 
cent  meeting  of  the  club  where  this  precious 
nonsense  originated,  we  find  accounts  of  the  ex¬ 
perience  of  correspondents  and  members  present 
in  making  this  chemical  preparation  which  was 
propounded  by  their  very  chemical  “Professor.” 
One  man  put  his  sal  soda  in  a  piece  of  stove¬ 
pipe  and  succeeded  about  as  well  as  if  he  had 
tried  to  heat  a  piece  of  ice  to  redness ;  another 
put  it  in  an  iron  pot,  but  it  frothed  over  and 
they  had  a  bad  time  generally.  The  reason  that 
these  gentlemen  did  not  succeed  in  making 
caustic  soda  out  of  sal  soda  by  heating  it,  was 
simply  because  it  is  impossible.  Any  schoolboy 
with  a  trifling  knowledge  of  chemistry  knows 
that  it  is  one  of  the  distinguishing  characters  of 
the  alkalies  proper,  that  it  is  impossible  to  de- 
decompose  their  carbonates  by  heat  alone.  Sal 
soda  is  a  carbonate  of  soda,  and  besides  carbon¬ 
ic  acid  and  soda  its  crystals  contain  over  60 
per  cent  of  water.  When  these  crystals  are 
heated  they  melt,  and  if  the  heat  be  continued, 
this  water  will  be  driven  off  in  the  form  of 
steam,  and  the  carbonate  of  soda  left  as  a  dry 
mass  which  by  an  increase  of  heat  may  be  melt¬ 
ed  and  heated  red  hot  without  undergoing  any 
further  change,  and  when  it  cools  it  will  be  pre¬ 
cisely  the  same  as  the  crystals,  minus  the  water. 
Now  when  one  has  been  to  all  this  trouble  and 
then  dissolves  the  melted  mass  in  water,  he  will 
get  precisely  the  same  solution  that  he  would, 
had  he  dissolved  the  crystals  at  first ;  and  if  any 
one  wishes  to  use  sal  soda  wash,  we  advise  him 
not  to  go  through  with  the  healing  process, 
which  thopgh  very  “  chemical,”  is  very  useless. 


We  have  noticed  this  matter  once  before  in  a 
“Basket”  item,  and  now  put  it  in  large  print 
in  the  hope  that  some  may  be  saved  the  tribu¬ 
lation  experienced  by  the  gentlemen  above  re¬ 
ferred  to.  This  sal  soda  nonsense  is  only  one 
illustration  its  author  has  afforded  of  the  adage 
that  “  one  talks  all  the  better  for  having  some 
knowledge  of  his  subject,”  as  w'ell  as  a  caution 
to  those  societies  wdio  publish  reports  of  their 
proceedings,  that  they  should  subject  them  to 
some  revision,  and  not  allow  every  absurdity 
that  garrulous  people  and  self-styled“Professors” 
choose  to  propose,  to  go  out  endorsed  by  them. 


TOE  MOlIJgElEKDlL®. 


Recreation  and  Visiting  among  Farmers. 


This  may  seem  to  some  a  very  unsuitable  topic 
for  this  busy  time  of  the  year.  On  the  contrary,  it 
is  specially  seasonable.  Most  farmers  make  life  too 
much  a  drudgery  for  themselves  and  for  their  chil¬ 
dren.  By  working  hard  from  morning  until  night, 
knd  from  week  to  week,  with  no  recreation,  they 
become  dull,  and  do  not  accomplish  as  much  as 
they  would  with  a  little  timely  relaxation,  “  all 
work  and  no  play  makes  Jack  a  dull  boy.”  Nor 
do  they  enjoy  life  nearly  so  well.  They  doubtless 
say  to  their  souls,  “I  must  work  hard  now,  and 
lay  up  money  against  a  time  of  need,  or  against  old 
age;  then  I  will  rest  and  enjoy  myself.”  They  for¬ 
get  that  they  are  meanwhile  wearing  out  their  fac¬ 
ulties  of  enjoyment,  and  are  acquiring  habits  which 
will  untit  them  for  anytliing  but  an  old  age  of  con¬ 
tinued  toil.  Let  fanners  bear  in  mind,  too,  the 
effect  of  such  a  life  on  their  children. 

As  to  the  way  in  wiiich  farmers  shall  get  recrea¬ 
tion,  we  are  not  disposed  to  be  particular.  Some 
will  choose  to  get  it  in  one  way,  and  some  in  another. 
One  very  good  method  is  to  make  up  an  occasional 
pic-nic.  Fix  on  a  pleasant  afternoon,  and  take 
the  whole  family  to  some  neighboring  grove, 
where  the  children  can  romp,  where  the  older 
folks  can  rest,  and  all  have  a  good  supper.  If  sev¬ 
eral  families  can  unite,  it  will  be  all  the  better. 
Another  way,  is  to  m.ake  short  visits  to  the  neigh- 
bo  is.  To  do  this,  it  will  not  be  needful  to  con¬ 
sume  a  whole  d.ay ;  this  would  be  an  unnecessary 
loss  to  you  and  a  bore  to  your  neighbor.  But  seize 
on  the  broken,  half-days,  or  even  the  hour  or  two 
after  tea,  and  ride  over  to  neighbor  A’s,  or  neigh¬ 
bor  D’s.  He  will  be  glad  to  show  you  his  stock  and 
his  crops,  and  his  orchard.  You  will  learn  some¬ 
thing  from  him,  and  he  from  you.  At  any  rate, 
you  will  get  recreation,  and  wiil  return  to  your 
home  and  j’our  daily  labor  with  new  zest. 

- — »-»-■■■ 

The  Sanitary  Commission  and  the  People. 


With  the  advent  of  peace,  we  are  happily  no  lon¬ 
ger  obliged  to  remind  our  readers  that  they  can  do 
this  or  that  for  the  comfort  of  the  soldier.  It  is 
gratifying  to  know  that  many  of  our  hints  have 
been  acted  upon,  and  we  are  also  glad  that  we  have 
been  able  to  act  as  a  medium  of  communication  for 
those  of  our  readers  who  had  no  other  way  of  reach¬ 
ing  the  organized  Commissions.  The  great  work  of 
the  army  being  at  an  end,  the  Sanitary  Commission 
now  states  that  ali  further  efforts  in  its  behalf  may 
cease,  and  in  making  this  announcement  we  add 
their  eloquent  tribute  of  thanks  to  those  who  have 
aided  them  in  their  labors. 

“  To  the  Soldier’s  Aid  Societies,  and  through 
them  to  each  and  every  contributor  to  our  supplies, 
to  every  woman  who  has  sewed  a  seam  or  knitted 
a  stocking  in  the  service  of  the  Sanitary  Commis¬ 
sion,  we  now  return  our  most  sincere  and  hearty 
thanks — thanks  which  are  not  ours  only,  but  those 
of  the  camps,  the  hospitals,  the  transports,  the 
prisons,  the  pickets,  and  the  lines,  where  your 
love  and  labor  have  sent  comfort,  protection,  relief, 
and  sometimes  life  itself.  It  is  not  too  much  to  say 
that  the  army  of  women  at  home  has  fully  matched 


in  patriotism  and  in  sacrifices  the  army  of  the  men 
in  the  field.  The  mothers,  sisters,  wives  and  daugh¬ 
ters  of  America  have  been  worthy  of  the  sons  and 
brothers,  husbands  and  fathers  who  were  fighting 
their  battles.  After  having  contributed  their  iiving 
treasures  to  the  war,  what  wonder  they  sent  so 
freely  after  them  all  else  that  they  had  ?  And  this 
precious  sympathy  between  the  firesides  and  the 
camp  fires,  between  the  bayonet  and  the  needle,  the 
tanned  check  and  the  pale  face,  has  kept  the  nation 
one;  has  carried  the  homes  into  the  ranks,  and 
kept  the  ranks  in  the  homes,  until  a  sentiment  of 
oneness,  of  irresistibie  unanimity,  in  which  domes¬ 
tic  and  social,  civil  and  religious,  political  and  mil¬ 
itary  elements  entered,  qualifying,  strengthening, 
enriching  .and  sanctifying  all,  has  at  last  conquered 
all  obstacles  and  given  us  an  overwhelming,  a  pro¬ 
found  and  permanent  victory.  It  has  been  our 
precious  privilege  to  be  your  almoners  ;  to  manage 
and  distribute  the  stores  you  have  created  and  given 
us  for  the  soldiers  and  sailors.  We  have  tried  to  do 
our  duty  impartially,  diligently,  wisely.  For  the 
means  of  carrying  on  this  vast  work,  which  has 
grownup  in  our  hands,  keeping  pace  with  the  grow¬ 
ing  immensity  of  the  war,  and  which  we  are  now 
about  to  lay  down,  after  giving  the  American  pub¬ 
lic  an  account  of  our  stewardship,  we  are  chiefly 
indebted  to  the  money  created  by  the  fairs  which 
American  women  inaugur.ated  and  conducted,  and 
to  the  supplies  collected  by  you  under  our  organ¬ 
ization.  To  you,  then,  is  finally  due  the  largest 
part  of  whatever  gratitude  belongs  to  the  Sanitary 
Commission.  It  is  as  it  should  be.  The  soldier 
will  return  to  his  home  to  thank  his  own  wife,  moth¬ 
er,  sister,  d.aughter,  for  so  tenderly  looking  after 
him  in  camp  and  field,  in  hospital  and  prison  ;  and 
thus  it  will  be  seen  that  it  is  the  homes  of  the  coun¬ 
try  which  have  wrought  out  this  great  s.alvation, 
and  that  the  men  and  the  women  of  America  have 
an  equai  part  in  its  glory  and  its  joy.” 


Making  Pickles. 


During  the  rebellion  the  army  demand  for  pick¬ 
les  was  so  great  that  the  high  prices  they  brought 
were  sufficient  to  give  many  persons  the  pickle  fe¬ 
ver.  The  numerous  inquiries  respecting  the  man¬ 
ner  in  which  cucumbers  were  raised  on  the  large 
sc.ale  have  been  well  answered  by  our  friend  Timo- 
othy  Bunker  Esquire.  We  now  have  many  asking 
us  about  the  mannerof  putting  up  the  pickles,  and 
though  we  have  intimated  to  the  Squire  that  we 
would  like  his  views  on  this  matter,  we  have  heard 
nothing  from  him.  Probably  the  heavy  hay  crop 
around  Hookertown  keeps  him  busy,  or  else  he  is, 
as  Justice  of  the  Peace,  engaged  in  looking  after 
the  morals  of  that  flourishing  viilage.  In  the  ab¬ 
sence  of  any  thing  from  the  Squire,  we  are  obliged 
to  tell  what  we  know  upon  the  subject,  and  thus 
answer  a  great  many  calls  for  information.  In  the 
first  place  it  is  necessary  to  put  cucumbers  into  salt 
before  placing  them  in  vinegar,  as  the  vinegar  pen¬ 
etrates  much  better  and  the  salting  removes  a  crude 
and  raw  taste  that  they  otherwise  have.  We  have 
eaten  pickles  made  by  putting  cucumbers  directly 
into  vinegar,  but  consider  them  greatly  inferior  to 
those  prepared  in  the  usual  way.  There  are  two 
methods  of  salting ;  dry  salting  and  in  brine.  In 
dry  salting,  the  cucumbers  are  put  in  a  barrel  or 
other  receptacle  and  sprinkled  freely  with  fine  salt ; 
juices  exude  from  the  cucumbers  to  dissolve  the 
salt  and  thus  form  a  very  strong  brine,  while  the 
fruit  itself  shrivels  very  much.  This  method  uses 
a  great  deal  of  salt,  but  more  cucumbers  can  be  put 
into  a  barrel  than  when  they  are  put  into  a  brine. 
The  shriveling  is  of  no  disadvantage,  as  the  plump¬ 
ness  is  restored  when  the  pickles  are  soaked.  In 
putting  down  in  brine  the  process  differs  according 
to  the  scale  upon  which  it  is  carried  on.  Where 
large  quantities  are  raised,  new  barrels  are  filled 
with  cucumbers,  about  half  a  peck  of  salt  added, 
and  headed  up,  the  barrels  are  then  filled  with  wa¬ 
ter  through  the  bung  holes,  bunged  up  tightly  .and 
shipped.  We  know  a  gentleman  at  the  West  who 
sends  off  a  large  quantity  prepared  in  this  way,  but 
how  long  they  will  keep  in  such  a  weak  brine  we 


254 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[August, 


are  unable  to  say,  but  probably  a  sufficieut  time  if 
the  barrels  are  full  and  tight.  Where  additions  are 
made  as  the  cucumbers  are  picked  from  day  to  day, 
a  strong  brine  is  used,  about  a  quart  of  salt  to  the 
gallon  of  water,  and  the  cucumbers  kept  down  by 
means  of  a  circular  board  with  weights  upon  it.  A 
great  trouble  is  often  experienced  with  pickles  in 
brine  from  the  formation  of  a  white  scum  upon  the 
surface.  This  is  probably  some  microscopic  veget¬ 
able  growth  of  a  character  similar  to  mould.  It 
has  been  recommended  as  the  best  means  of  man¬ 
aging  this  to  put  a  cloth  under  the  follower  used  to 
keep  the  pickles  under  the  brine,  and  each  time  ad¬ 
ditions  of  fresh  cucumbers  are  made  to  the  barrel, 
to  carefully  lift  the  cloth  to  remove  the  scum  on 
it,  and  wash  the  cloth  clean  before  replacing  it. 


American  Extravagance  in  Living. 

To  one  who  has  traveled  abroad,  or  informed 
himself  thoroughly  respecting  the  economy  of  do¬ 
mestic  life  in  England,  and  on  the  Continent,  few 
things  are  more  striking  than  our  American  ex¬ 
travagance.  We  waste  in  our  food  much  which 
would  be  turned  to  good  account  in  their  family 
maintenance.  Much  goes  into  the  swill-pail,  or  is 
thrown  out  for  the  chickens  and  dogs,  and  cats, 
which  would  there  be  worked  over  for  the  table  of 
the  servants,  or  given  to  the  poor.  We  are  extrava¬ 
gant  in  dress.  Broadcloth  and  silk,  and  Patent 
leather  and  Alexander’s  gloves  are  none  to  fine  for 
daily  use.  We  are  “clothed  in  purple  and  fine 
linen,  and  fare  sumptuously  every  day.”  lu  car¬ 
pets  and  rosewood  furniture,  and  lace  curtains  and 
mirrors,  in  carving  and  gilding,  in  equipage  and 
grand  dwellings, — in  short,  in  whatever  may  con¬ 
tribute  to  phj’sical  indulgence  and  material  show, 
we  put  little  or  no  restraint  upon  our  desires. 
And  what  we  might,  perhaps,  with  some  show  of 
reason  do  in  times  of  peace  and  jilcnty,  and  low 
prices,  we  have  continued  to  do  in  time  of  war  and 
national  distress,  and  the  enhanced  cost  of  living. 

Now,  to  an  outsider,  this  must  look  foolish,  if 
not  morally  wrong.  What  if  we  think  we  can 
afford  this  high  style  of  expenditure?  Fast  living 
is  hurtful  to  soul  and  body.  Frugality,  temper¬ 
ance,  self-restraint,  are  signs  of  a  better  character, 
than  wastefulness  and  headlong  selfindulgence. 
They  are  productive  of  truer  happiness,  more  gen¬ 
uine  self-respect  and  better  health.  Individual  ex- 
travag.ance  and  national  luxury  have  in  all  past 
times  gone  together,  and  are  likely  to  do  so  in  time 
to  come.  It  is  well  to  have  an  eye  to  the  future. 
There  may  be  rainy  days  ahead.  If  they  come,  we 
shall  be  thankful  for  our  economy ;  and  if  they 
do  not,  it  will  do  us  no  harm  to  have  provided 
with  habits  of  carefulness  for  every  contingency. 


Blackberry  Wine  and  Syrup. 


We  are  asked  how  to  make  blackberry  wine  with¬ 
out  the  addition  of  water  to  the  juice,  and  how 
much  syrup  will  be  required  to  the  gallon  of  juice 
to  preserve  it  any  length  of  time.  These  inquiries 
show  that  the  writer  does  not  make  a  distinction 
between  wine  and  syrup.  If  he  wishes  to  make 
syrup,  the  juice  from  the  berries  should  stand  12 
hours  more  or  less,  according  to  the  weather,  until 
a  partial  fermentation  takes  place,  and  a  thick  pulp 
coagulates  and.  separates  from  the  clear  liquid. 
This  pulp  is  removed  by  straining,  and  to  the  clear 
liquid,  sugar  is  added  in  the  proportion  of  12  pounds 
to  the  gallon,  put  on  the  fire  and  allowed  to  come 
to  the  boil.  Syrup  prepared  in  this  way  will  con¬ 
tain  all  the  “nutritious  and  medicinal  virtues  of 
the  fruit.”  In  making  wine  from  fruit  juices  the 
object  of  adding  sugar  is  not  to  preserve  the  juice 
through  the  agency  of  the  sugar,  but  to  afford  a 
source  of  alcohol.  Few  fruit  juices,  except  the  bet¬ 
tor  kinds  of  grapes  contain  enough  fruit  sugar  to 
form  a  sufficiently  strong  wine  to  keep  without 
changing  to  vinegar,  hence  the  addition  of  sugar. 
If  sugar  is  added  directly  to  the  juice  of  blackberry, 
raspberry,  and  other  of  our  common  fruits,  it 
forms  a  jelly  and  does  not  ferment,  and  it  is  accord¬ 


ingly  necessary  to  add  more  or  less  water.  The 
best  blackberry  “  wine  ”  we  ever  made  was  in  the 
proportion  of  one  quart  of  water,  one  quart  of  juice 
and  two  pounds  of  sugar.  There  is  a  great  misap¬ 
prehension  with  respect  to  the  medicinal  properties 
of  blackbrry  wine  and  syrup.  Their  curative  effects 
are  due  to  their  tistringency,  which  depends  upon 
the  tonic  acid  they  contain.  This  principle  is  much 
more  abundant  in  the  root  than  in  the  fruit,  and  an 
infusion  of  the  root,  prepared  as  direeted  in  July, 
will  be  found  much  more  medicinal,  though  per¬ 
haps  less  agreeable,  than  the  “  wine  ”  or  syrup. 


Bread,  etc.,  from  Wbeaten  Meal. 


A  correspondent,  “  Nymphea,”  in  Yorkville,  N. 
T.,  is  quite  enthusiastic  on  the  subject  of  bread 
from  unbolted  ground  wheat,  and  sends  not  only 
her  recipes  but  specimens  of  the  articles  made  ac¬ 
cording  to  them.  The  preparations  were  sweet, 
light,  and  palatable,  and  would  no  doubt  be  prized 
by  those  who  like  articles  made  from  wheaten 
meal.  We  give  her  own  account  of  the  manner  of 
producing  them; 

“After  all  that  has  been  said  on  the  vexed  bread 
question,  probably  many  of  your  readers  may  re¬ 
ceive  with  great  incredulity  the  statement  that  good 
light,  and  wholesome  bread  can  be  made  with  sim¬ 
ple  meal  and  water.  I  believe  we  have  spoiled  our 
bread  for  the  sake  of  having  it  look  white.  We 
take  great  pains  to  grind  the  wheat  to  an  impalpa¬ 
ble  powder,  carefully  sift  out  those  portions  which 
conduce  most  to  sweetness,  lightness,  and  nutri¬ 
tion  ;  and  then  take  a  vast  deal  more  p.ains  to  put 
in  artificial  ingredients  which  at  best  but  poorly 
restore  these  important  qualities.  If  good  wheat 
be  ground  eoarsely  (if  with  sharp  stones  the  better) 
and  not  bolted,  nor  sifted,  you  can,  by  the  follow¬ 
ing,  and  other  recipes,  make  good,  light  bread, 
quickly  and  certainly ;  bread  that  will  keep  for  days, 
and  yet  can  be  eaten  hot  with  impunity,  because 
it  contains  no  unwholesome  drugs  or  compounds. 

Batter  Cakes. — Stir  wheat  meal  slowly  into  cold 
water  till  it  is  of  a  consistence  about  half  way  be¬ 
tween  griddle  cakes  and  pound  cake.  Bake  in  large 
patty  pans  or  small  muffin  rings  in  a  hot  oven  20 
or  SO  minutes.  If  wanted  extra  nice,  use  milk  in¬ 
stead  of  the  water. - Now  please  do  not  laugh  at 

this  recipe,  nor  argue  against  it ;  but  try  it  faith¬ 
fully,  and  if  necessary,  repeatedly ;  and  do  not  un¬ 
dertake  to  mend  it  until  you  can  make  it.  If  the 
cakes  do  not  come  out  of  the  oven  as  light  as  good 
wheat  bread,  your  batter  is  too  thick  or  too  thin, 
probably  the  latter,  or  you  have  undertaken  to 
bake  it  in  a  large  loaf,  or  to  mar  the  recipe  in  some 
other  way.  I  prefer  to  use  the  patty  pans  which 
should  not  be  more  than  2}{  inches  across  the  top, 
and  1  inch  deep.  If  oblong,  they  may  be  3  or  4 
inches  long.  The  fluted  tins  will  do,  and  if  greased 
with  a  very  little  sweet  oil,  the  cakes  will  soon 
come  out  smoothly  while  hot.  Some  prefer  to  drop 
the  batter  by  the  spoonful  on  a  large  tin;  this 
saves  time.  This  bread  will  keep  moist  and  tender 
two  or  three  days  unless  it  has  been  salted. 

Sweet  Balter  Cakes. — Make  the  batter  as  above, 
sweeten  to  the  taste  (better  slightly),  and  add  a 
dash  of  einnamon.  Bake  as  above. 

Wheat  Ileal  Rolls. — Pour  boiling  water  into  good 
wheat  meal.  Stir  with  a  stout  spoon  into  a  dough 
as  soft  as  can  be  conveniently  handled.  Work  it  as 
little  as  possible,  roll  %  inch  thick  on  a  well  planed 
board,  cut  into  inch-and-a-half  cakes  with  a  knife 
or  a  cake  cutter,  and  bake  quickly.  This  does  not 
require  so  hot  a  fire  as  the  batter  cakes.  The  bread 
is  sweeter  but  not  so  porous,  and  will  keep  longer. 

Boiled  Make  a  dough  as  in  the  last 

recipe,  and  roll  inch  thick.  Stir  up  shred  apples 
or  any  slightly  tart  fruits  with  wheat  meal,  and  a 
little  water  if  necessary,  and  wrapping  it  up  in  the 
crust,  turn-over  fashion,  put  it  into  a  bag  and  boil  an 
hour.  Two  or  three  hours  will  improve  it.  Eat 
with  sweetened  cream  or  other  simple  dressing. 

Wheat  Meal  Mush. — Stir  wheat  meal  gradually 
into  slowly  boiling  water,  as  for  hasty  pudding. 
Let  it  cook  very  slowly  20  minutes  or  more.  Eat 
with  sweetened  cream.  After  the  meal  is  all  stirred 


in,  whortleberries  either  dried  or  fresh,  form  a 
charming  addition.  This  pudding  makes  a  p.alata- 
ble,  cheap,  and  wholesome  desert,  which  can  be 
prepared  at  short  notice. 

Am&)-osia.— Make  a  batter  as  in  the  first  recipe, 
or  a  trifle  stiffer.  Grease  a  deep  dish  and  spread 
this  batter  half  an  inch  thick  upon  the  bottom. 
Place  upon  this  a  layer  of  small  fruits  or  tart  sliced 
apples,  with  barely  sugar  enough  to  correct  their 
acidity.  Put  a  very  thin  layer  of  batter,  or  if  the 
fruits  are  very  juicy,  wheat  meal  should  have  been 
added  with  the  sugar,  sufficient  to  absorb  the  juice 
in  cooking;  then  another  layer  of  fruit  with  sugar, 
flour,  etc.,  covering  the  whole  with  a  thin  layer  of 
batter.  Bake  about  1  hour  in  a  moderate  oven. 
The  best  fruits  for  this  dish  are  tart  cherries,  black¬ 
berries,  plums,  and  grapes.  The  two  points  to  be 
observed  are,  not  to  let  the  fruits  touch  the  dish  or 
the  surface,  and  not  to  let  the  juices  escape  in  cook¬ 
ing.  This  dish  is  better  if  it  ripen  a  day  or  two 
before  it  is  eaten,  thus  permitting  the  fruit  to 
permeate  the  cereal  with  its  juices  and  aroma. 

This,  Mr.  Editor,  is  my  very  own  invention  and 
my  chef  d'oeuvre,  and  as  I  must  needs  have  a  name 
for  it,  I  have  appropriated  the  type  of  all  excellence 
among  the  edibles  of  ancient  mythology.” 

- »-• —  -«  c  ■- — - - 

Fly  Poison— A  Caution. 

There  are  still  many  places  where  the  old-fashion¬ 
ed  fly-poison  is  used.  Druggists  sell  it  as  “  Cobalt,” 
an  incorrect  name,  and  one  which  does  not  indi¬ 
cate  the  true  character  of  the  article,  ground  metal¬ 
lic  arsenic.  This  when  mixed  with  sweetened  wa¬ 
ter  is  sure  death  to  flies  and  equally  fatal  to  people. 
From  the  many  eases  of  poisoning  of  children  re¬ 
sulting  from  the  use  of  this  fly-poison,  we  advise 
to  discard  it  altogether  and  endure  the  annoyance 
of  flies  rather  than  risk  the  poisoning  of  children. 
Darkening  the  rooms  is  the  best  way  of  getting 
rid  of  flies;  keep  them  out  with  millinet  frames. 

■ - - I  wi  - - 

Sag-ging-  noors. — After  doors  have  been 
long  in  use,  they  sometimes  pinch  near  the  top, 
and  the  usual  remedy  is  to  plane  them  off  at  the 
sticking  point.  But  this  planing  removes  the 
paint  or  graining,  and  is  a  great  evil.  The  cause 
of  the  pinch  is  the  sagging  of  the  door;  and  this 
comes  from  the  wearing  down  of  the  hinges  by 
long  use.  Instead  of  planing  off  the  doors,  a  better 
way  is  to  go  to  the  tinners  and  get  some  tin  or 
sheet-iron  washers  made  which  will  just  lit  the  cen¬ 
tral  rod  or  pivot  of  the  hinge.  This  will  remedy 
the  evil  at  small  expense,  and  save  the  mutilation. 
- •-< -  — - ►-» - - 

Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 

Sort  Sorghum  Cake.— T.ake  3  eggs,  1 
pint  of  sorghum  molasses,  1  of  sour  cream,  half  a 
nutmeg,  1  teaspoonful  of  soda.  Beat  the  eggs  and 
molasses  together  until  light,  thicken  with  flour 
to  the  consistence  of  batter  c.ake,  this  will  be 
enough  to  fill  two  common  sized  stove  pans. 

Oingerhread. — Take  1  quart  molasses,  1 
pint  lard,  2  pints  very  sour  cream,  2  heaped  table- 
spoonfuls  soda,  2  of  ginger  or  nutmeg,  mix  into  a 
dough  as  soft  as  can  be  rolled ;  roll  thin  and  bake. 

Extra  Pudding.— To  1  quart  of  milk  add 
the  yolks  of  3  or  4  eggs,  sweeten  to  your  taste,  let 
it  first  raise  to  a  boil,  (have  the  whites  beat  to  a  good 
froth)  stir  in  the  whites,  then  put  away  to  cool.  A 
pudding  made  in  this  way  I  think  is  hard  to  beat, 
and  not  very  unwholesome. 

Egg  PiilFfe. — Take  1  pint  sweet  milk,  1  quart 
sifted  flour,  2  eggs,  1  teaspoonful  salt.  Mix  the 
yolks  with  the  milk.  Beat  the  whites  to  froth. 
Mix  all  together  and  divide  into  twelve  earthen 
cups.  Bake  20  minutes  in  a  very  hot  oven,  and  eat 
as  soon  after  as  possible  with  good  butter.  The 
cups  must  be  new,  or  those  which  have  never  been 
wet  or  greased.  The  puffs  when  done  will  slip  out 
of  the  cups  easily,  and  are  served  at  table,  bottom 
side  up,  for  beauty.  The  cups  may  be  cleaned 
sufficiently  by  scraping  and  wiping  with  a  dry  eloth. 
If  the  cups  are  ever  wet  the  puffs  stick. 


1S65.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


255 


Steamed  Indian  Piiddiu;;. —  Mix  1 

pint  of  buttermilk,  1  Cff^,  1  teaspoonful  saleratus, 
1  of  salt,  and  Indian  meal  enough  to  make  a  stiff 
batter.  Steam  for  an  hour  and  a  half  and  serve 
hot  %yith  butter  and  molasses,  sweetened  cream,  or 
other  sauce  as  may  be  desired. 

To  Keinove  Time  Spots  from  Clotli. 
—First  use  a  stiff,  dry  brush  to  remove  any  adher¬ 
ing  lime,  then  rub  the  spots  with  a  cloth  wet  in 
cold  vinegar  and  dry  the  garment. 

To  Prevent  Stoves  ISiistiniif. — Oil 
them  with  sweet  oil.  This  docs  not  make  a  bad 
Bmell  when  tlie  stoves  are  heated  again.  They 
should  be  very  clean  when  the  oil  is  applied. 
Coal-scuttles  may  be  oiled  %vith  boiled  linseed  oil. 

To  Keep  ISnrsiislietl  or  Polislied 
Shovels,  Tongs,  Pokeks,  etc.,  fkom  Busting.— 
A  friend  practises  packing  such  things  in  a  box,  of 
convenient  form,  and  covering  them  with  quick¬ 
lime,  leaving  room  for  the  lime  to  swell  in  slack- 
ing,  as  it  gradually  absorbs  water  from  the  air. 


B©YS  is, 


Notes  on  Getting  Fire. 


Who  first  discovered  fire  and  its  uses  ?  No  man  knows. 
It  may  have  been  first  seen  bursting  from  a  volcano  ;  or 
lightning  may  have  struck  and  fired  a  tree  ;  quite  likely 
the  latter  was  the  case,  as  it  is  tlie  most  common  way  in 
which  fire  is  produced  without  the  help  of  man.  In  some 
way  it  became  known  to  our  ancestors  very  early  in  tiie 
history  of  the  world.  We  can  imagine  the  wonder  and 
consternation  with  which  they  for  the  first  time  saw  this 
element  devouring  the  solid  wood,  and  by  its  strange  pow¬ 
er  compelling  them  to  keep  at  a  respectful  distance. 
But  they  soon  learned  to  make  it  one  of  the  most  useful 
servants,  and  it  has  played  a  most  important  part  in  the 
progress  and  history  of  all  nations.  In  these  days  of 
friction  matches,  we  know  but  little  of  the  trouble  our 
ancestors  liad  to  keep  their  fire,  or  to  produce  it  when 
extinguished.  Within  the  recollection  of  many  of  our 
readers.  It  used  to  be  one  of  the  regular  liousehold  duties 
to  see  that  a  stick  of  hard  wood  partly  burned,  was  safely 
covered  witli  ashes  at  night  to  keep  it  for  starling  with 
the  next  morning.  When  by  neglect  or  accident  the  fire 
went  out,  a  piece  of  steel  made  for  the  purpose  was 
struck  with  a  flint,  and  the  sparks  from  the  small  bits  of 
steel  ignited,  were  cauglit  upon  tinder,  or  partly  burned 
cotton  rags,  and  thus  laboriously  and  gradually  tlie  fire 
was  again  lighted.  If  there  were  no  flint  or  steel,  then 
one  must  go  to  the  nearest  neighbor  for  fire — no  small 
task  on  a  cold  winter  morning  in  a  sparsely  settled  place. 
Tiie  ancients  understood  the  art  of  kindling  fire  from  the 
sun  by  means  of  concave  mirrors,  the  bright  surfaces  of 
which  collected  many  of  the  rays  in  a  small  spot  called 
a  focus,  thereby  producing  intense  heat.  The  burn¬ 
ing  glass,  acting  on  the  same  principle,  has  long  been 
known,  and  is  now  a  convenience  for  travelers.  Among 
uncivilized  nations.  It  is  still  the  practice  to  procure  fire 
by  rubbing  two  sticks  together.  A  gentleman  who  has 
often  seen  the  Indians  do  this,  says  they  use  a  piece  of 
hard  wood  about  a  foot  long,  having  several  holes  in  tlie 
side,  with  a  small  opening  inclining  downward  from  each 
hole.  This  stick  is  laid  upon  the  ground  and  held  firmly 
with  the  feet.  A  small  stick  of  soft  wood,  witli  the  end 
rounded  to  fit  the  hole  in  the  other  piece,  is  taken  be¬ 
tween  the  hands,  its  end  introduced  into  one  of  the  holes, 
and  then  it  is  rapidly  twirled  back  and  forth.  This  pro¬ 
duces  much  heat  and  at  the  same  time  rubs  off  small 
particles  from  the  soft  stick,  wliich  become  partly  charred, 
and  fall  from  the  hole  down  through  the  'small  opening 
on  to  a  dry  leaf  placed  there  to  receive  them.  Quite  a 
little  pile  of  these  bits  collect  upon  the  leaf  before  one 
ignites,  and  falling  upon  the  others  sets  fire  to  them. 
The  Indian  g.ithers  the  whole  together  in  a  few  leaves, 
swings  them  around,  and  soon  has  a  roaring  flame. 
This  is  hard  work  and  requires  much  practice  to  succeed; 
our  informant  often  tried,  but  was  never  able  to  produce 
a  sj  ark.  It  would  require  too  much  space  to  speak  in 
this  article  of  the  invention  of  matches  and  the  improve- 
ttetsts  made  in  them,  and  we  reserve  it  for  a  future  time. 

A  Boy  in  a  Fredicament, 

A  hady  reader  of  American  Agriculturist  relates  the 
following  incident  w'hich  occurred  to  her  uncle  when  a 
boy.  His  father  kept  geese,  and  for  the  accommodation 
of  such  as  wanted  to  raise  families,  he  built  a  low  liouse 
or  coop,  into  which  a  goose  could  comforlahly  enter  and 
occupy  her  nest.  On  one  occasion  a  motherly  goose  had 
beem  sitting  several  days  on  a  nestfiil  of  eggs,  when  little 
Joshua,  then  about  five  years  old,  wanted  very  much  to 


know  what  progress  she  was  making.  Accordingly  he 
lay  down  before  the  entrance,  and  began  to  introduce  his 
head,  but  Madam  Goose  indignant  at  tins  intrusion  into  her" 
private  room,  made  a  snap  at  him,  and  caught  him  by  the 
nose  !  Joshua  screamed  and  struggled,  but  the  old  goose 
held  on,  and  the  gander  who  was  not  far  off,  liearing  his 
mate’s  voice,  came  flying  to  the  rescue,  and  mounting 
on  Joshua’s  back,  began  giving  him  an  unmerciful  drub¬ 
bing  with  both  wings.  The  noise  brought  Joshua’s 
mother  to  the  scene  of  conflict,  and  slie  pulled  him  away, 
but  tile  goose  held  on  so  tightly  that  when  released,  his 
nose  was  completely  skin'ned.  After  he  was  grown, 
Joshua  used  to  relate  this  story  to  show  that  it  is  safest 
for  one  to  keep  his  nose  out  of  other  people’s  business. 

A  Froper  Musical  Ingtriiment, 

A  certain  Presbyterian  clergyman  in  Scotland,  many 
years  ago,  was  very  fond  of  music,  and  frequently  amused 
himself  with  playing  on  his  violincello,  on  which  he  was 
a  fine  performer.  Some  staid  members  of  ids  parish 
were  stiocked  to  hear  of  what  they  thought  such  profane 
recreation,  and  appointed  a  committee  to  visit  and  talk 
with  him  on  the  subject.  Tlie  committee  called,  and 
their  spokesman  after  some  hesitation,  stated  W'hat  they 
had  heard,  that  he  played  on  the  fiddle,  and  asked  if  it 
were  true.  “Certainly.”  replied  the  minister,  “I  have  what 
you  call  a  fiddle,  which  I  will  show  you,”  and  bringing 
it  out  he  tuned  it  and  at  once  commenced  playing.  He 
went  through  several  favorite  national  airs,  struck  off 
into  lively  reels  and  jigs  and  brought  out  such  sprightly 
music,  that  even  the  commillee  could  scarcely  keep  their 
feet  still  under  them.  The  interview  closed  without 
miicli  furtlier  being  said  on  tlie  evil  of  music  ;  they  were 
nearly  converted  to  tlie  minister’s  faitli,  that  there  is  a 
lime  for  such  enjoyment.  Returning  to  the  meeting 
wliicii  had  appointed  tliem.  the  .spokesman,  who  himself 
had  not  been  opposed  to  the  music,  but  had  gone  to  please 
tlie  people,  reported  as  follows  :  “  Sure  friends  ye  ha’e 

nae  occasion  to  fa.'li  yere  selves  abune  tlie  Dominie’s  fid¬ 
dle,  for  it.s  nae  a  nice  ungndhj  fiddle,  but  an  unco  great 
gospel  fiddle!"  witli  wliieli  diplom.alio  report  the  people 
were  entirely  satisfied,  and  tlie  minister  was  left  to  enjoy 
music  without  any  furtlier  molestation. 

Fresatlesif  Syinpis-tlsy. 

The  foilowing  incident  related  in  an  excliange  paper, 
well  illustrates  onr  late  Pre.sident’s  nalural  kindness  of 
heart.  A  woman  in  a  faded  shawl  and  hood,  somewhat 
advanced  in  life,  was  admitted  in  her  turn  to  tlie  Presi¬ 
dent.  Her  liiisband  and  three  sons,  all  she  had  in  the  world, 
enlisted.  Her  hii.sband  had  been  killed,  and  she  had 
come  to  ask  the  President  to  release  to  her  the  oldest 
son.  Being  satisfied  of  tlie  truthfulness  of  her  story  he 
replied,  “  Certainly,  if  her  prop  was  taken  .away  shew-as 
justly  entitled  to  one  of  her  boys.”  He  immediately 
wrote  an  order  for  tlie  disoliarge  of  the  young  man.  The 
poor  woman  thanked  liim  very  gratefully,  and  wen 
aw  ay.  On  reacliing  the  army  she  found  that  tills  son  had 
been  in  a  recent  engagement,  was  wounded,  and  taken 
to  a  hospital.  She  found  the  hospital,  but  the  boy  was 
dead,  or  died  while  she  was  there.  The  surgeon  in 
charge  made  a  memorandum  of  the  facts  upon  the  back 
of  the  President’s  order,  and.  almost  broken-hearted,  the 
poor  woman  found  her  way  again  into  his  presence.  He 
was  much  affected  by  her  appearance  and  story,  and 
said,  “  I  know  what  you  wisli  me  to  do  now,  and  I  shall 
do  it  without  your  asking,  I  shall  release  to  you  your 
second  son.”  Upon  this  he  took  up  his  pen  and  com¬ 
menced  writing  the  order.  tVliile  he  was  writing,  the 
poor  woman  stood  by  his  side,  tlie  tears  running  down 
her  face,  and  pas.'ed  her  hand  softly  over  his  head,  strok¬ 
ing  his  rougli  hair,  as  I  have  seen  a  fond  mother  do  to  a 
son.  By  the  time  he  had  fini.«hed  writing,  his  own  heart 
and  eyes  were  full.  He  handed  her  the  paper.  “Now,” 
said  he,  “you  have  one  and  I  one  of  the  other  two  left ; 
that  is  no  more  than  right.”  She  took  the  paper,  and  rev¬ 
erently  placing  her  hand  again  upon  his  head,  the  tears 
still  upon  her  cheeks,  said,  “  The  Lord  bless  you,  Mr. 
President.  May  you  live  a  thousand  years,  and  may  you 
always  be  the  head  of  this  great  nation  1” 

The  Ilitrl;  Cliickesi, 

A  lady  subscriber  to  the  American  Agriculturistwniesi 
“Vfe  have  an  old  hen  whose  name  is  ‘  Pat.’  She  is  not 
a  Hibernian,  for  eight  years  ago  she  was  one  of  a  large 
brood  of  chickens  in  our  own  yard.  I  was  ill  at  the 
time,  and  when  the  chicken  was  half  grown,  she  persist¬ 
ed  in  coming  to  the  outside  door  of  my  room,  and  seat¬ 
ing  herself  gravely  upon  the  door  sill.  She  had  a  singu¬ 
lar  resemblance  to  a  Partridge,  and  we  gave  her  that 
name— now,  it  is  plain  ‘  Pat.’ 

“  Tills  morning  one  of  the  boys  came  in  with  one  of 
Pat’s  chickens  in  his  hands.  ‘  See  here  ,M  oilier,  tliis  poor 
little  chicken  has  its  leg  broken.’  Some  one  else  sug- 


gested  that  it  was  the  work  of  ‘Old  Gobbler’— he  had 
been  trying  to  frighten  Pat  out  of  her  senses  early  tliis 
morning,  and  had  actually  dragged  his  wings  over  the 
poor  old  mother  hen.  Tlie  kitten  lay  asleep  in  the  rock¬ 
ing  chair,  and  the  children  put  the  lame  chicken  in  its 
soft  warm  fur,  w  here  it  remained  quite  contented  a  short 
time.  Soon,  however,  it  began  to  scream,  and  I  advised 
the  boys  to  go  out  and  kill  it.  •  I  can’t  do  it,’  replied  the 
eldest — and  as  he  never  refuses  to  do  as  he  is  requested, 
I  did  not  insist.  I  turned  to  his  brother,  saying,  ‘  You 
had  better  go  with  it  i  guess.’  It  went  against  liim  but  he 
bravely  took  the  little  tiling  and  went  out  and  put  it  out 
of  its  pain— came  back  with  tears  in  liis  eyes,  and  sat 
down  and  wept.  I  am  sure  you  agree  with  me,  Mr.  Ed¬ 
itor,  that  those  tears  were  an  honor  to  him,  and  not— as 
some  boys  of  eleven  would  have  thought— a  sign  of 
weak,  unmanly  spirit.  Our  dear,  departed  President, 
could  never  have  been— I  am  sure— a  cruel,  selli.sh  boy; 
had  he  been  this,  he  could  not  have  exhibited  such  sor¬ 
row  and  compassion  over  the  sins  and  suffering  of  even 
his  enemies,  and  never  would  a  vast  Nation  so  have 
mourned  his  loss.” 

Answers  t®  FroMems  and  Fnzzles, 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
July  number,  page  223.  No.  161.  Curious  Numbers,-- 
FIVE  ;  take  away  the  three  letters,  F,  I,  E,  and  V  or 
live  remains. — Zd.  SIX;  take  away  S,  and  IX,  or  nine 
remains  ;  take  away  S,  I,  and  X  or  ten  remains.... No. 
162.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Lettuce  awl  key  pup  in  d  pen 
dents  day  in  on  r  of  trees  on  s  over  throw  ;  or  Let  us  all 
keep  up  Independence  day  in  honor  of  treason’s  over¬ 
throw...  No.  163.  Conundrum. — A  General  Grant  o, 

America _ No.  164.  Word  Rebus. — 'Wood  ewe  bee  re 

specked  ed  dew  ewer  whole  dew  tea;  or  Would  you  be 
respected,  do  your  whole  duty  ...No.  165.  Illustrated 
Rebus. — Awl  on  R  tooth  e  boys  in  blue  lioof  aut  and  one 
in  f  reed  u  ms  caws  ;  or,  All  honor  to  the  boys  in  blue, 
who  fought  and  won  in  freedom’s  cause ....  No.  166.  Con¬ 
undrum. — The  Black  Warrior  ...No.  167.  Puzzling  Sen¬ 
tences. —  ist.  A  Chinese  found  a  charm  under  a  chaff  cov¬ 
ering.  2d.  You  try  to  tease  in  vain  ;  I  am  too  used  to  it. 
No.  168.  Clock  Proble7n, — 48  96-143  minutes  past  eight 
o’clock. ..  .The  following  have  sent  in  correct  answers 
up  to  July  8ih.  P.  L.  Vancel,  156  ;  “  Compo,”  158  ;  Sol¬ 
omon  C.  Minor,  156,  159  ;  Clarkson  Johnston,  159  •  J.  T. 
Avery,  161,  162,  165;  II.  Bestheslo,  161  ;  Geo.  R.  Clark, 
102,  165  ;  George  E.  Pomeroy,  Jr.,  162,  165  ;  Richard  H. 
Bosworth,  165  ;  R.  G.  Weeks,  165  ;  W.  C.  Stone,  163,  165 

New  Puzzles  t®  l»e  Answered, 

No.  169.  Prolific  Word.— From  the  letters  of  what  sin¬ 
gle  word  can  the  following  sentence  be  made  ?  “  Ned 
and  I  ran  in  a  barn  and  a  bear  ran  near  a  drain,  and 
I  bade  Ned  ride”? 


No.  170.  Illustrated  Rebus, — Good  advice  for  the  times. 

No.  ni.  Wire  Ptizzle.— This 
made  of  three  or  four 
wire  linked  together 
in  the  engraving,  and 
a  ring  slipped  on  as  represent¬ 
ed.  The  puzzle  is  to  get  the  ring  off  without  breaking 
or  separating  the  wires.  It  will  be  good  amusement  for 
a  leisure  hour  to  make  and  then,  solve  the  puzzle. 


111. 

O  puzzle  is  r 
pieces  of 
as  shown  i 


OLD  100 
JERUSALEM 


is  Eli 
E  President.C 


No.  172,  Illustrated  Rebus. — Especially  for  the  boys. 

No.  173.  Charade, — Contributed  by  Jas.  E.  Wildey, 
Lake  Co.,  Ill.  I  am  composed  of  24  letters.  My  23,  4, 
19,  17,  7, 11,  was  a  mythological  deity.  My  7,  3,  12,  20,  5, 
17,  !4,  was  a  learned  Frenchman.  My  I,  17,  5,  20,  18,  24, 
is  always  in  a  city.  My  2,  6,  14,  21,  15,  II,  13,  is  an  inhab¬ 
itant  of  the  sea.  My  2,  12,  5,  5,  6,  14,  is  a  tool  much  used 
in  carpentry.  My  7,  15,  9,  6,  abounds  in  the  Southern 
swamp  lands.  My  13,  7,  22,  23,  19,  5,  22,  18,  18,  23,  are 
very  useful  to  farmers.  My  9,  12,  14,  4,  16,  9,  4,  23,  ii 
a  city  of  South  America.  My  whole  is  what  every  farm¬ 
er  will  find  it  very  pleasant  and  profitable  to  have. 


256 


A  M  K  R 1 C  A N  Aa  R  K ::  U  1  /r  U  R I  ST, 


Augttbt. 


WIso  arc  llie  iSeiievoleat  ? 

“  What  a  charitable  little  girl,”  say  yon,  on  looking  at 
this  picture.  Perhaps  so  ;  may  be  not— thoiigli  on  a  sec¬ 
ond  look  at  her  kind,  pitying  face,  we  judge  she  is  ben¬ 
evolent.  A  lad  we  once  knew  was  very  fond  of  giving  to 
the  poor,  and  to  every  good  object,  provided  his  father 
supplied  him  with  the  money.  Of  course  every  body  who 
saw  him  frequently  contributing,  thought  him  a  very  lov¬ 
ing,  kind-hearted  boy.  But  when  his  father  suggested 
that  he  should  save  part  of  the  money  he  had  earned  by 
weeding  in  the  garden,  to  give  it  to  a  poor  boy  to  buy 
shoes,  so  that  he  might  go  to  school,  this  charitable 
appearing  boy  was  unwilling  to  part  with  a  single  penny 
for  that  purpose.  He  wanted  his  money  to  spend  for 
himself.  We  have  often  seen  men  subscribe  liberally 
for  public  objects,  where  all  their  neighbors  would  know 
it  and  praise  them  for  it,  who  would  never  have  given  a 
dime  to  the  most  worthy  charity  but  for  the  praise  they 
expected  to  receive.  So  you  see  a  person  may  give  much 
and  often,  and  at  the  same  time  be  very  selAsh.  Now, 
suppose  the  little  girl  in  the  picture  to  have  been  eating 
some  very  nice  cake,  made  for  her  by  her  mother,  and 
the  poor  homeless,  ragged  boy  wandering  away  from  the 
city  to  seek  a  living  among  kind  hearted  farmers,  to  have 
passed  along  just  then,  and  the  little  girl  pitying  him  to 
have  given  up  part  of  her  own  sweet  morsel,  that  would 
surely  be  charity.  Whoever  is  willing  to  denxj  himself 
for  the  sake  of  bestowing  good  upon  others,  is  truly  be¬ 
nevolent.  And  it  is  most  true,  as  we  wish  all  our  young 
readers  to  experience  for  themselves,  that  there  is  great¬ 
er  and  more  lasting  happiness  in  pleasing  and  benefiting 
others,  than  in  enjoying  good  things  by  ourselves.  This 
lesson  most  of  all  others  needs  to  be  learned,  for  the 
world  is  full  of  selfishness  and  its  fruits  of  suffering. 
When  all  have  learned  it  by  heart,  and  practise  it,  this 
world  will  be  very  much  like  Heaven,  where  love  reigns. 

Arlfwriglit  and  llic  Spinning  Jenny. 

Sir  Richard  Arkwright,  of  England,  the  inventor  of  the 
spinning  jenny,  was  originally  a  poor  barber,  occupying 
a  cellar,  where  his  sign  “  Come  to  the  Subterranean 
Barber,  he  shaves  for  a  Penny,”  attracted  a  good  run  of 
custom.  He  afterward  reduced  the  price  to  a  halfpenny 
on  account  of  opposition  by  his  brethren  in  the  trade. 
But  he  was  not  content  with  shaving  for  a  living,  and 
spent  so  much  time  contriving  machines  and  making 
models,  that  his  regular  business  suffered.  One  day  his 
wife  being  angry  at  his  neglect  to  provide  for  his  family, 
destroyed  some  of  his  models,  which  for  a  long  time 
prevented  Arkwright  from  indulging  in  his  passion 
for  invention.  He  next  gained  a  livelihood  by  buy¬ 
ing  and  selling  hair,  having  a  secret  process  for  dye¬ 
ing  it  to  required  shades.  This  business  led  him  to  trav¬ 
el  considerably  through  the  country.  At  that  time  cot¬ 
ton  fabrics  were  spun  and  woven  by  hand  by  the  cot¬ 
tagers.  One  weaver  could  keep  many  employed  in  card¬ 
ing  and  spinning  the  weft  or  cross  threads  of  the  goods  ; 
the  warp  or  long  threads  were  of  linen,  furnished  to  the 
weavers  by  the  large  dealers.  It  was  difficult  to  get 
enough  weft  si>un  to  keep  the  looms  going,  and  it  was  a 


common  thing  for  the  weaver 
to  walk  several  miles  in  a 
morning,  and  to  call  on  a  num¬ 
ber  of  spinners  before  he  couid 
get  enough  for  the  remainder 
of  his  day’s  work.  Arkwright 
noticed  this,  and  set  his  in¬ 
ventive  brain  to  work  to  reme¬ 
dy  it.  He  had  the  idea  that 
spinning  could  be  done  by 
means  of  two  rollers,  one  of 
which  revolving  much  faster 
than  the  other,  would  draw 
the  twisted  threads  exactly  as 
had  been  done  by  hand  labor. 
He  accordingly  employed  a 
watchmaker  named  Kay,  to 
make  a  small  model  for  the 
purpose.  Then  he  applied  to 
a  machinist  to  make  a  w  orking 
machine  on  the  plan,  but  Ark¬ 
wright  being  poor  and  the  suc¬ 
cess  appearing  doubtful,  he 
hesitated,  but  at  last  agreed  to 
let  the  watchmaker  have  two 
of  his  men  to  assist,  and  the 
first  spinning  jenny  was  finally 
constructed  by  them.  It  was 
found  to  work  well,  improve¬ 
ments  were  added  to  it,  and 
before  long  Arkwright  had 
little  difficulty  in  securing  all 
the  money  needed  to  carry  on 
the  manufactory— so  true  Is  It, 
that  the  first  starting  of  every 
new  enterprise  is  always  the 
most  <lifficult  part  of  the  work.  The  invention  complete 
ly  revolutionized  cotton  manufacture,  and  besides  enrich¬ 
ing  the  inventor,  it  has  contributed  very  largely  to  the 
wealth  and  importance  of  Great  Britain,  and  to  the  com¬ 
fort  of  the  whole  civilized  world.  Cotton  fabrics,  for¬ 
merly  worn  only  by  the  rich,  are  now  easily  obtained  by 
all.  The  first  machine  of  Arkwright  is  preserved  in  the 
Patent  Museum,  at  South  Kensington,  in  London. 

'I'lie  Old  Flag!  in  ISnltimore. 

A  gentleman  relates  the  following  incidents  which 
came  to  his  knowledge  In  Baltimore.  During  the  “dark 
days”  just  after  the  attack  on  the  Massachusetts  soldiers, 
the  mob  would  allow  no  American  Flag  to  be  displayed. 
The  last  one  (they  thought)  w  as  torn  down  from  an  office 
in  one  of  the  principal  streets,  amid  the  brawling  shouts 
of  drunken  ruffians,  the  helpless  indignation  of  Union 
men  and  the  tears  of  patriotic  women  who  witnessed  its 
desecration.  The  next  morning,  how  ever,  the  mob  were 
exasperated  by  the  sight  of  the  glorious  but  hated  em¬ 
blem  hanging  from  an  upper  window  of  an  old  lady's 
house.  Gathering  beneath  it  they  shouted,  “Take  in 
that  flag  1”  “  Down  with  that  rag  1”  Presently  the  own¬ 
er  appeared.  “Away  with  that  flag  !”  they  repeated. — 
“What  flag?”  asked  the  old  lady. — “Up  there  in  your 
window,”  was  the  reply.  “That’s  my  bed  quilt.”  said 
sne.  “  It’s  a  pity  ii  an  o.u  woman  can't  air  her  oed  cloth¬ 
ing  without  being  molested,”  and 
shaking  it  out  of  the  window'  she 
show  ed  a  bed  quilt  with  a  flag  worked 
in  each  corner.  Rough  as  they  were, 
they  were  completely  shamed  out  of 
thoughts  of  violence,  and  so  every 
morning,  the  bed  quilt  was  duly  hung 
out  to  be  aired  !  The  gentleman  who 
related  the  incident  to  the  writer  en¬ 
deavored  to  secure  the  quilt  for  the 
Sanitary  Fair  at  Brooklyn,  but  parties 
in  Baltimore  were  ahead  of  him,  and 
it  was  exhibited  and  sold  there  for  the 

benefit  of  the  soldiers. - During  the 

same  period,  an  aged  resident  of  Bal¬ 
timore  called  on  a  Union  man  and  said 
he  earnestly  desired,  if  possible,  to 
look  upon  the  old  flag.  Come  with 
me  and  you  shall  be  gratified,  said 
his  friend.  He  conducted  the  old 
gentleman  to  his  mill  on  the  suburbs 
of  the  city,  and  taking  him  to  an  upper  story  handed  him 
a  spy-glass,  saying,  “  There  it  is  on  old  Fort  McHenry.” 
Soon  the  aged  man  descried  it  in  the  distance,  and  gazed 
long  and  earnestly,  stopping  occasionally  to  wipe  away 
the  tears  of  emotion  which  flowed  freely  ;  and  afler  that 
every  day  he  walked  over  a  mile  to  enjoy  the  privilege  of 
looking  upon  the  Star  Spangled  Banner,  until  it  was 
again  restored  to  honor  throughout  the  city,  never  we 
trust  to  be  displaced.  It  is  an  interesting  fact  that  the 
national  song,  “The  Star-Spangled  Banner,”  was  at 
first  written  in  connection  with  this  same  fort. 


€iOo*^a.ud  ISad  Apples. 

One  day  Robert’s  father  saw  him  playing  wilh  somo 
boys  who  were  rude  and  unmannerly.  He  had  observed 
for  some  time  a  change  for  the  worse  in  his  son,  and  now 
he  knew  the  cause.  He  was  very  sorry,  but  he  said  noth¬ 
ing  to  Robert  at  the  time.  In  the  evening  he  brought 
from  the  garden  six  beautiful,  rosy-cheeked  apples,  put 
them  on  a  plate,  and  presented  them  to  Robert.  He  was 
much  pleased  at  his  father’s  kindness,  and  thanked  him 
“  You  must  lay  them  aside  for  a  few  days  that  they  maj 
become  mellow,” said  his  father.  And  Robert  cheerfullj 
placed  the  plate  with  the  apples  in  his  mother’s  store¬ 
room.  Just  as  he  was  putting  them  aside,  his  father  laid 
on  the  plate  a  seventh  apple,  which  was  quite  rotten,  and 
desired  him  to  allow  it  to  remain  there.  “  But  father,” 
said  Robert,  “the  rotten  apples  will  spoil  all  the  others.” 
“Do  you  think  so?  Why  should  not  the  fresh  apples 
rather  make  the  rotten  one  fresh  ?”  said  his  father.  And 
with  these  words  he  shut  the  door  of  the  room.  Eight 
days  after  he  asked  his  son  to  open  the  door  and  take  out 
the  apples.  But  what  a  sight  presented  itself!  The  six 
apples,  which  had  been  so  sound  and  rosy-cheeked,  were 
now  quite  rotten,  and  emitted  a  bad  odor  through  the 
room.  “  Oh,  papa  !”  cried  he,  “  Did  I  not  tell  you  oftfsn 
that  the  rotten  apple  would  spoil  the  good  ones  ?  yet  you 
did  not  listen  to  me.” — “  My  boy,”  said  his  father,  “have 
I  not  told  you  often  that  the  comp.any  of  bad  children  w  ill 
make  you  bad,  yet  you  do  not  listen  to  me.  See  in  the 
condition  of  the  apples  that  which  will  happen  to  you  it 
you  keep  company  with  wicked  boys.” — Robert  ilid  not 
forget  the  lesson.  He  remembered  the  rotten  apples,  and 
kept  apart  from  the  rude  sports  of  his  former  playmates. 

A  Uerman  'Fraditlon. 

The  picture  below  illustrates  (he  following  story.  A 
rich  German  built  for  himself  a  large  and  splendid  castle 
on  a  hill  overlooking  the  surrounding  country.  He  own¬ 
ed  the  land  as  far  as  he  could  see  from  the  top  of  his 
highest  tower,  all  except  one  little  cottage  surrounded 
by  about  an  acre  of  ground,  in  which  lived  a  very  old 
tvoman.  She  had  been  a  nurse  in  his  father’s  family,  had 
helped  to  rear  him,  and  this  place  had  been  given  to  her 
for  a  home  by  the  former  lord.  As  we  said  before,  the 
new  lord  was  very  rich  ;  but  he  was  also  vain,  ambitious 
and  selfish.  When  friends  came  to  visit  him  he  would  take 
them  to  the  top  of  the  castle  and  proudly  point  out  his  vast 
estate.  “All  this  I  own,  as  far  as  you  can  see,”  he  would 
say,  and  then  added  in  a  lower  tone,  “  all  but  that  little 
spot  where  the  cottage  stands  and  whenever  he  said 
this,  he  felt  angry  that  this  was  not  in  his  po.ssession.  He 
tried  to  buy  it  from  the  old  woman,  but  she  had  lived 
there  long,  was  very  comfortable,  and  would  not  part 
with  it.  Finally,  this  ungrateful  and  wicked  man  deter¬ 
mined  to  get  rid  of  her  at  all  hazards.  He  therefore  hired 
one  of  his  servants  to  accuse  her  of  being  a  witch,  and 
of  bewitching  his  master’s  cattle.  The  poor  old  woman 
was  brought  before  the  lord,  who  was  the  magistrate  ol 
that  part  of  the  country,  a  mock  trial  was  had,  and  she 
w  as  sentenced  to  have  her  place  sold,  and  to  be  banished 
three  leagues  from  the  place.  Then,  of  course,  he  bought 
the  coveted  land  and  cottage  for  almost  nothing,  and  the 
old  woman  was  driven  off.  As  she  was  leaving  the  pliice 
she  uttered  fearful  curses  upon  her  oppressor,  and  con¬ 
cluded  by  saying,  “  You  covet  to  have  all  your  eye  can 


see,  and  to  have  your  mark  upon  the  whole  land  ;  your 
eye  shall  turn  to  stone,  and  your  mark  shall  be  branded 
upon  the  hill,  so  that  men  shall  shun  the  fearful  spot 
where  an  ungrateful  wretch  robbed  his  old  nurse  of  her 
last  comfort.”  Within  a  year  afler  a  fearful  storm 
burst  upon  the  place.  Lightning  struck  the  castle,  rend¬ 
ing  its  walls  and  killing  the  cruel  lord  and  all  his  family, 
and  what  is  most  wonderful,  the  ruins  were  left  in  such 
a  way  that  the  old  woman’s  curse  was  fulfilled,  and  now 
if  you  will  study  the  picture  c.arefully,  you  may  see  the  eye 
of  the  lord  turned  to  stone,  and  his  mark  upon  the  kill 


1885. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


ii57 


(Business  notices  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 


FISK  &  HATCH, 


Wo.  5  Wa§saM"Sf.,  Wew-York, 

BANKERS  AND  GENERAL  DEALERS 

IN 

GOVERWMJEMT  SECfJlSITIE§, 

Agents  for  the  sale  of 

Til®  Mew  Toaii. 

DEPOSITS  DECEIVED. 

COLLECTIONS  MADE 

AND 

Financial  Business  generally  Transact- 
Id  witli  care  and  promptness. 

EEMEMBER 

THAT 

H.  H.  <8c  CO., 

ai  J®MW-ST.,  WEW-Y®ISM, 

BaTe  tl»e  largest,  latest,  best,  and  cheap¬ 
est  Assortment  of  Tdaps,  Charts,  and 
Prints.  The  demand  for  the  hincoln  Chart 
is  unexampled.  Many  Agents  make  more 
than  $iO  per  day  each,  by  its  sale  alone. 
Men,  women,  and  children  make  large 
wages  in  selling  this  and  other  charts.  A 
sheet  sample  is  mailed  for  40  cents.  S3 
Sample  Packages  mailed  at  wholesale 
prices.  AGENTS  WANTED  for  nearly  ev¬ 
ery  County  in  the  Union.  Send  for  New 
Price  Uist.  _ 

iONA  AND  ISRAELLA  VINES. 

The  very  great  superiority  of  these  Grapes  over  alt 
.ther  kinds,  has  heretofore  been  well  established.  Their 
urpassing  value  is  rendered  still  more  markedly  mani- 
est  by  the  peculiar  trials  of  this  season. 

For  the  best  method  of  obtaining  these,  and  at  cheapest 
j*holesale  rates,  with  premiums,  see  Club  Propositions, 
which,  with  Price  List  and  a  Twenty-four  page  Pam¬ 
phlet,  are  sent  for  two-cent  stamp. 

These  propositions  are  of  interest  to  every  one  who 
desires  to  obtain  an  early  supply  of  the  best  Grapes. 

Clergymen,  Editors,  and  Post-Masters  are  favorably 
situated  for  rendering  the  advantages  of  these  proposi¬ 
tions  available  to  themselves  and  friends,  and  the  PRE¬ 
MIUMS  for  their  agency  in  the  formation  of  Clubs,  will 
furnish  them  with  vines  of  such  quality,  as  can  not  be  ob¬ 
tained  in  any  other  way. 

C.  W.  GRANT, 

“IONA,”  near  PEEKSKILL,  N.  Y.. 

The  “  Ewreka  ”  Fateait  Fruit 
Jar. 

The  Best  in  the  Market. 

This  Jar  combines  all  the  requisites  of  a  perfect  Jar, 
viz.:  perfect  reliability  in  keeping  fruit;  great  simplici¬ 
ty  ;  remarkable  ease  with  which  it  is  closed  and  opened, 
and  although  the  cover  is  made  of  tin,  it  is  so  protected 
by  a  composition  that  it  will  neither  corrode  nor  give 
a  taste  to  the  fruit. 

For  sale  in  all  th  principal  Cities  and  Towns. 
JIOHN  F.  GK5FFEN,  Proprietor  and  rManufac- 
tuver,  No.  9  Barclay-street,  New-York. 

PIAMOS  & 

Great  Bargains  in  HALLET,  DAVIS  &  CO’S  Grand 
and  Square  Pianos— and  other  New  Pianos.  Sold  on 
monthly  payments.  Good  second-hand  Pianos  at  $60, 
«I50  to  $300. 

FIANOS  AND  MEUODEONS  T©  UET. 

A.  E.  THOMPSON’S  Chapel  and  Parlor  Organs, 
voiced  by  a  skillful  Organist,  far  superior  to  all  other 
Reed  Organs.  Price  $100.  T.  S.  BERRY, 

593  Broadway.  New  York. 

Concesfltrated  Lemoiaade, 

incases  of  2,  4,  6  and  12  dozen.  Warranted  pure.  Price 
$3  .50  per  dozen.  Orders  must  be  accompanied  by  Cash. 
For  sale  by  T.  HARDY  &  CO.,  36  Dey-st.,  N.  Y. 


A  WEEKLY  JOURNAL  for  the  discussion  of  the 
political  and  social  topics  of  the  day  ;  the  illustration 
and  maintenance  of  true  democratic  principles  ;  the  con¬ 
sideration  of  the  condition  of  the  freed  people,  and  the 


duty  of  the  Republic  towards  them  ;  the  support  of  pop¬ 
ular  education  as  a  political  agent ;  the  diffusion  of  in¬ 
formation  regarding  the  condition  and  prospects  of  the 
South;  and  for  the  sound  and  impartial  criticism  of  books 
and  works  of  art,  with  entire  independence  of  sects  and 


parties. 

It  embraces  among  its  regular  or  occasional  contri¬ 


butors  the  following  names : 

HENRY  W.  LONGFELLOW. 

JAMES  RUSSELL  LOWELL. 

SAMUEL  ELIOT,  (Ex-President  Trinity  College, 
Hartford.) 

Professor  TORREY,  (Haivaid.) 

Professor  GOLDWIN  SMITH,  (Oxford.) 

Professor  CHILD,  (Harvard.) 

Professor  W.  D.  WHITNEY,  (Yale.) 

Professor  D.  C.  GILMAN,  (Yale.) 

Professor  DWIGHT,  (Columbia  College.) 
FREDERICK  LAW  OLMSTEAD. 


Rev.  Dr.  JOS.  P.  THOMPSON. 
Rev.  PHILLIPS  BROOKS. 
HENRY  T.  TUCKERMAN. 
WILLIAM  LLOYD  GARRISON. 
SIDNEY  GEORGE  FISHER. 
Rev.  0.  B.  FROTHINGHAM. 
RICHARD  GRANT  WHITE. 
Judge  BOND,  (Baltimore.) 


JOHN  G.  WHITTIER. 
Dr.  FRANCIS  LIBBER. 
CHARLES  E.  NORTON. 
EDMUND  QUINCY. 
HENRY  James. 

Judge  DALY. 

Judge  WAYLAND. 

Rev.  Dr.  McCLINTOCK. 


Rev.  Dr.  BELLOWS. 

C.  J.  STILLE. 
BAYARD  TAYLOR. 

C.  A.  BRISTED. 

C.  L.  BRACE. 
THEODORE  TILTON. 
JAMES  PARTON. 
GAIL  HAMILTON. 


Terms:  Three  Dollars  per  annum,  in  advance;  six 
months.  Two  Dollars.  When  delivered  by  carrier  in 
New-York  or  Brooklyn,  fifty  cents  additional. 

JOSEPH  H.  RICHARDS,  Publisher, 

No.  130  Nassan-st.,  New-York. 


A  GREAT  BOOK  FOR  AGENTS. 

SOLD  EXCLUSIVELY  BY  SUBSCRIPTION. 

The  Liife  and  Putolic  Services 
OF 

ABRAHAM  LINCOLN 

Sixteenth  President  of  the  United  States  ; 
TOGETHER  WITH  HIS  STATE  PAPERS, 
Including  his 

Speeches,  Addresses,  Messages,  Uetters, 
and  Proclamations  j 

TO  WHICH  IS  ADDED 

A  History  of  the  Tragical  and  Mournful  Scenes  connect¬ 
ed  with  the  close  of  his  Noble  and  Eventful  Life. 

By  Hon.  HENRY  J.  RAYMOND,  M.  C., 

TO  WHICH  IS  ADDED 

ANECDOTES  AND  PERSONAL  REMINIS 
CENCES  OF  ABRAHAM  LINCOLN,  by  Frank  B. 
Carpenter,  the  celebrated  artist,  who  painted  the  “  First 
Reading  of  the  Emancipation  Proclamation  before  the 
Cabinet,”  and  while  painting  it  at  the  White  House,  en¬ 
joyed  a  six  months’  familiar  intercourse  with  our  late 
President,  noting  down  the  many  interesting  anecdotes 
and  sayings,  which  are  here  recorded. 

The  following  Illustrations  will  embellish  the  Work  : 
1.  A  fine  Stsel  Portrait,  by  the  Artist,  Ritchie  ;  2.  Abra¬ 
ham  Lincoln’s  Early  Home  in  Kentucky  ;  3.  Abraham 
Lincoln’s  Home  in  Springfield  ;  4.  President  Lincoln, 
Wife,  and  Children  ;  5.  Raising  the  Old  Flag  at  Inde¬ 
pendence  Hall  ;  6.  Inauguration  as  President  at  Wasli- 
ington;  7.  Proclamation  of  Emancipation;  8.  President 
Lincoln  entering  Richmond  ;  9.  Assassination  at  Ford’s 
Theatre;  10.  The  Death  of  Abraham  Lincoln:  11.  Fu¬ 
neral  Cortege  through  New-York ;  12.  Funeral  Arch 
over  Hudson  River  Railroad  ;  13.  Reception  of  Remains 
at  Chicago  ;  14.  The  Last  Rites  at  Springfield. 

The  Book  will  be  printed  in  the  best  style  from  new 
and  elegant  type,  upon  fine  paper,  making  an  octavo  vol¬ 
ume  of  about  700  pages,  and  will  be  neatly  and  substan¬ 
tially  bound. 

Price  in  Cloth.  $3.50  ;  Leather  $4.00. 

“  GET  THE  BEST.” 

*,*  Agents  wanted  in  every  town.  For  further  par¬ 
ticulars  apply  to  DERBY  &  MILLER,  Publishers, 

No.  5  Spruce-st.,  Tribune  Buildings,  New-York. 


Woedwarcl’s  €©aaiatry  IIome§. 

A  New,  Practical,  and  Original  Work  on 

RURAL  ARCHITECTURE  ; 

Elegantly  illustrated  with  122  Designs  and  Plans  of 
Houses  of  moderate  cost,  including  Stables  and  Outbuild¬ 
ings.  With  a  chapter  on  the  construction  of  Balloon 
Frames.  12mo.  Price  $1.50,  mailed  free  to  any  address. 

WOODWARD’S  GRAPERIES  AND 
HORTICULTURAL  BUILDINGS. 

A  new  work,  liandsomely  illnstrafed,  on  the  design  and 
construction  of  Hot  and  Cold  Graperies,  Conservatories, 
Orchard  Houses,  and  Buildings  of  all  classes  for  grow¬ 
ing  Plants  and  ripening  Fruit  under  Glass.  12rno.  Price 
$1.50,  mailed  free  to  any  address. 

TWENTIETH  ANNUAU  VOUUME,  1865. 

THE  HORTICULTimiST. 

A  montlily  Journal  of  Horticulture  and  Rural  Art. 

400  royal  octavo  paces,  handsomely  illustrated.  Per  an¬ 
num  $'2.50.  Two  s|  ociinen  numbers,  25  cents. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD, 

37  Park  Row,  New-York,  Publishers  and  Dealers  in  Ag- 
ricnltnral.  Horticultural,  and  Architectural  Books  and 
Papers.  Send  red  stamp  for  priced  Catalogue. 

Tla®  Herald  Health 

ANB 

Jmimsiil  ©f  Playsaesil  Cailfasre, 

For  all  invalids  in  search  of  healtli  and  bodily  develop¬ 
ment,  is  just  the  thing.  The  July  number  contains  an 
article  on  the  Physical  Education  of  Girls,  by  Dr.  Dio. 
Lewis,  and  40  other  articles  of  high  interest.  Every 
parent  should  read  it.  15  cents  a  number.  $1.50  a  year. 
Address  MILLER,  WOOD  &  CO.,  15  Laight-st.,  New- 
York. 


^  4S03r^''fl'S  WAi3J'jrES>. — In  every  Town- 
-^ship  and  County,  to  sell  GRANT  AND  SHERMAN, 
their  CAMPAIGNS  AND  GENERALS;  Byllon.  J.  T. 
Headley,  author  of  “  AVashinglon  and  his  Generals,” 
&c.,  &c.,  comprising  popular  Iliographies  of  prominent 
Generals  of  the  Union  Army,  including  graphic  descrip¬ 
tions  of  Battles,  Sieges,  Adventures,  &c.;  with  numerous 
steel  Portraits  and  Battle  Scenes.  Sold  onlt  bt 
Agents.— To  all  seeking  profitable  employment,  a  rare 
chance  is  offered  to  make  money.  For  terms  and  terri¬ 
tory,  address  at  once  with  stamp,  E.  B.  TREAT,  Pub¬ 
lisher,  130  Grand-st.,  New-York. 

Lung,  Female  and  Chronic  Diseases. 

Drs.  S.  S.  &  S.  E.  STRONG,  graduates  of  the  New 
York  Medical  University,  and  Proprietors  of  the  Reme¬ 
dial  Institute,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y.,  give  special  at¬ 
tention  to  the  above  diseases.  In  addition  to  the  Medical 
and  Surgical  agencies,  they  employ  Gymnastics  and  all 
kinds  of  Baths.  They  refer  for  evidence  of  skill  and  re¬ 
liability  to 

E.  Nott,  D.  D.,  L.  L.  D.,  President  Union  College. 

M.  Simpson,  D.  D.,  Bishop  M.  E.  Cliurch,  Philadelphia. 
Rev.  J.  M.  Sherwood,  Ed.  Presbyterian  Quart’ly  Review. 
J.  M.  Ray,  State  Bank,  Indianapolis,  Ind. 

Prof.  H.  M.  Seely,  M.  D.,  Middlebury,  Vt. 

Hon.  J.  B.  McKean,  Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y, 

For  full  information,  send  for  a  Circular. 

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Ceiil^ECJIATE  IMSTITUTE. 

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cilities  of  the  best  Commercial  Colleges,  and  a  diploma 
to  graduates.  A  course  of  liberal  studies  for  ladies. 
Those  sufficienlly  advanced  in  their  studies  are  admitted 
to  graduation  in  a  single  year.  Each  term  tliere  is  a  class 
of  beginners  in  Latin,  Greek,  French,  and  in  German. 
Music  and  Painting  superior.  Fall  term  commences 
Aug.  31.  Address  for  catalogues  or  for  rooms, 

Rev.  JOSEPH  E.  KING,  D.D.,  Fort  Edward.  N.  Y, 

WoodsMe  Wiirsery. 

ANDREW  S.  FULLER,  HORTICULTURIST, 
formerly  of  [Brooklyn,  L.  I, 

Grape  Vines,  Small  Fruits  and  Hardy  Ornamental 
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Publishers,  Boston,  Mass. 


258 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST. 


[Atjoubt, 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


New-York,  July  19. 

The  condensed  and  convenient  tables  below,  show  the 
transactions  in  the  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
month  past.  They  are  carefully  prepared  specially  for  the 
American  Agriculturist,  from  official  and  other  reliable 
sources,  including  the  daily  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 


1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  TDB  NEW-TORK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Eye.  Earley.  Oats. 
24dayslftj-»m’th.351.500  1,424,000  1,332,000  54,000  76,000  1,592,000 
S5  days  lost  m’th.  339,000  398,000  1,477,000  2,100  131,000  1,723,000 


Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn. 

24  days  Iftis  month,  824,000  1,376.000  1,153.000 

25  days  last  mouth,  ^9,000  476,000  819,000 


Rye.  Barley. 

141,000  - 

56,000  78,000 


2.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

24  days  1865 . 351.5001,424,000  1,352,000  54,000  70,000  1,592,000 

25  days  1864 . 344,000  2,127,500  773,400  36,000  87,000  867,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 


24  days  1865  .  324,000  1,376,000  1,155.000 

28  days  1864  .  549,000  3,978,000  1,546,000 


141,000  - 

10,300  81,000 


3,  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  July  15: 


Flour,  Wlieat,  Corn,  Bye,  Oats, 

bbls.  bus.  bus.  bus.  bus. 


1865  .  731,291  819,429  458,739  141  48,227 

1864  . 1,093,043  799,145  175.235  405  22,481 

1863 . 1,339,192  7,904,547  5,871,333  318,103  101,889 

1802 . 1,552,583  8,043,012  6,612,533  849,988  22,023 


Gold  closed  last  month  (June  20)  139K,  and  on  the  16th 
Inst.,  143%.  General  business  has  exhibited  much  more 
animation  since  our  last,  especially  in  the  line  of  domes¬ 
tic  produce,  receipts,  and  sales  of  the  leading  kinds  of 
which  have  been  quite  extensive,  but  at  reduced  and 
irregular  prices.  Bre.adstufTs  have  been  more  freely 
purchased  for  home  use  and  export.  Receivers  have 
met  the  foreign  demand  readily  from  day  to  day.  Early 
in  the  month  the  course  of  prices  was  downward. 
Within  the  past  week  or  ten  days,  the  arrivals  from  the 
interior  h.ave  been  comparatively  moderate.  Holders 
have  been  less  eager  to  sell,  and  prices  have  rallied  con¬ 
siderably.  During  the  past  day  or  two  the  export 
inquiry  has  fallen  oif  again,  and  the  market  closes  tamely 
and  heavily  for  flour,  wheat,  and  corn.  In  the  provision 
line,  the  main  business  has  been  transacted  by  specula¬ 
tive  operators,  and  prices  have  rapidly  advanced  for  hog 

products,  which  have  attracted  most  attention . In 

Cotton  there  has  been  greatly  increased  activity  both  in 
receipts  and  sales,  and  prices  have  improved  moder¬ 
ately,  closing,  however,  in  favor  of  purchasers . Wool 

has  been  in  much  better  request,  and  within  a  week  or 
or  two  has  risen  3c  to  5c  per  lb.,  closing  buoyantly.  No 
considerable  receipts  or  sales  of  the  new  clip  have  been 
reported.  Manufacturers  complain  that  they  are  unable 
to  pay  the  rates  asked  by  holders  in  the  interior,  in  view 
of  the  prevailing  prices  for  woolen  goods.  Hay  has  been 
more  abundant  and  in  moderate  request,  closing  at  90cfa) 
$1.10  for  old  North  River  bale,  and  C8c®75c  for  new 
crop,  per  100  Its.  Hops  have  been  more  sought  after, 
mainly  for  export,  at  irregular  quotations.  Seeds  have 
been  quiet  and  depressed.  Tobacco  has  been  in  good 
demand,  partly  for  export,  at,  however,  reduced  prices. 

Current  IVnoLKSALK  Phioes. 


5  25  @5  75 


4  65 
1 


„  -  25 
@  2  20 
1  37>^@  1  SO 
90  Oi  95 
80  @  93 

78  @  80 

73  @  75 

85  @  1  00 
1  00  @  1  40 
41  @  42 

12%@  40 

63  @  63 

13)4®  14% 

3  00  @  4  25 


June  20. 

Flour— Super  to  Extra  State  .$5  75  @  6  95 

Super  to  Extra  Southern .  7  25  @12  00 

Extra  Western .  6  .50  @11  50 

Extra  Genesee . . .  6  93  @9  25 

Superfine  IVestern .  5  75  @  6  13 

Bye  Flour . 

Corn  Meal . . 

5V HEAT— All  kinds  of  IVhlte. 

All  kinds  of  Red . . 

Corn- Yellow . 

Mixed . 

Oats— Western . 

State . 

Bye . 

Barley .  — 

Cotton- Jliddlings,  ^  n> — 

Hors— Crop  of  1861, 19  B . 

FEATifERS- Live  Geese,  B. 

Seed— Clover,  IR  B  . 

Timothy,  bushel . 

Flax,  bushel . 

Sugar- Brown,  ¥>  B  . 

Molasses.  Cuba,  ^gl . 

Coffee— Bio,  ^  B . 

Todacco,  Kentucky,  &c..  ?IB. 

Seed  Leaf.  B . 

Wool— Domestic  Fleece,  B. 

Domestic,  pulled,  B . 

California,  unwashed, . 

Tallow.  b  . 

Oil  Cake- llton . 

Pork— Mess,  ^  barrel . 

Prime,  B  barrel . 

Beef- Plain  mess . 

Lard,  In  barrels,  B  B . 

Butter- tVestern,  19  B . 

State,  ¥1  B . . 

Cheese . 

Beans^^  bushel . 

Peas— Canada.  bushel . 

Eggs- Fresh,  ^  dozen . 

Poultry— Fowls,  B . 

Turkeys,  B  . 

Potatoes— Mercers,  bbl... 

Petich  Blows,  19  barrel . 

Buckeyes- New,  ^  barrel.... 

Apples- barrel . 


July  19 
$5  60  @6  93 


6  90 
6  90 
6  93 
5  70 
5  40 
4  50 


@11  30 
@11  73 
@  9  25 
@  6  10 
@  5  90 
®  5  25 


1  63  @1  9( 


1  38 
84 


@  1  70 
@  88 
@  84 

@  61 


78 
60 
55 

96  @  1  0: 
Nominal 
—  @  5 

10  @  3 

65  @  6 

Nominal 
3  25  @42 


1 

80 

® 

2  10 

1  75 

® 

2  25 

@ 

10)4® 

15V 

40 

@ 

60 

86 

@ 

60 

1S<A& 

23 

18)4® 

22 

6 

@ 

23 

6 

@ 

20 

7 

@ 

SO 

7 

@ 

30 

57 

@ 

75 

60 

@ 

77% 

58 

@ 

70 

60 

@ 

72% 

18 

@ 

42M 

26 

@ 

44 

10%@ 

11)4® 

12)4 

45 

00 

@50  00  4 

7  00 

@55  00 

24 

50 

@23  25  27  00 

@31  00 

18 

00 

@18  50  22  00 

@23  00 

10 

00 

@14  00  10  00 

@14  00 

15)4® 

17)4® 

22% 

21 

® 

30 

18 

@ 

25 

26 

@ 

33 

27 

@ 

35 

7 

@ 

16 

9 

® 

15% 

90 

@ 

1  50 

90 

® 

1  50 

1  50 
29 
20 

_  20 
2  00  @3  00 
1  75  @  2  25 


1  40 
26  @ 
18  @ 
18  ® 


1  30 
28 
22 
21 

1  00 
1  00 
3  50 
5  00 


@  1 
@  : 
@  : 
@  : 
@  1 
@  1 
®  4 
@  7 


8  00  @11  00 

r^'e'W-Yorllc  IAtc  Stock  Markets. — 


Beep  Cattle.— The  average  weekly  receipts  of  beef 
cattle  for  Ihe  four  weeks  ending  July  18,  is  5146,  against 
4867  for  the  previous  month.  The  receipts  have  been 


pretty  uniform,  and  prices,  though  though  tliey  have  been 
considerably  lower,  at  tlie  date  of  our  report  are  little 
changed.  Good  to  prime  fat  bullocks,  sell  at  lOcfSlTc 
per  lb.,  for  the  esiimated  dressed  weight;  common  to 
fair,  14c®15c,  and  poor  to  medium  12c(a)13c.  The  gov¬ 
ernment  are  still  supplied  with  about  50  head  weekly. 

Milcli  Cow.s. — The  average  weekly  receipts 
are  98.  There  is  little  activity  in  the  trade  and  prices 
range  from  $40®$60  each  for  poor  to  good  milkers. 
Fancy  cows  sell  much  higher. 

Veal  Calves. — The  aver.age  weekly  arrivals 
of  veals  since  our  last  report  is  2113,  compared  with  3656 
for  the  previous  four  weeks.  Prices  range  at  7c®llc 
per  lb.,  live  weight  for  poor  to  good  qualities. 

Skeep. — The  market  has  been  abundantly 
supplied  with  sheep,  for  some  weeks  past,  and  prices  are 
lower,  good  sheep  selling  at  6c®6%c  per  lb.,  live  weight. 
Lambs  are  not  plenty,  and  prices  are  still  high.  Fair  to 
good  lambs  selling  at  $5®$7  per  head. 

lave  llog’.s  average  iveekly  since  onr  last  re¬ 
port  10,581.  Prices  have  ranged  comparatively  low, 
until  this  week,  and  as  there  is  a  scarcity,  rates  have  ad¬ 
vanced  to  12c®12%c  per  lb.,  live  weight.  A  full  supply 
would  again  bring  them  down  to  our  previous  figures. 

- ■  I  - »  *» 

Agricultural  Fairs,  etc. 


We  give  herewith  a  list  of  all  the  fairs  of  which  prem¬ 
ium  lists  have  been  received,  and  of  others  so  far  as  we 
can  learn  about  the  time  of,  and  place  of  exhibition.  We 
must  depend  upon  our  readers  to  send  us  information 
before  Aug.  10th,  to  enable  us  to  furnish  a  full  list  for  our 
September  number. 

S'lTA'Faj  FAIKS. 

Delaware  Horticultural  Society,  Wilmington,  Del., 
Sept.  12th,  and  subsequent  days. 

Illinois,  Chicago,  Sept.  4lh  to  9th;  J.  P.  Reynolds, 
Secretary. 

Indiana,  Fort  Wayne,  Oct,  2d  to  7th  ;  W.  H.  Loomis, 
Secretary. 

Iowa,  Burlington,  Sept.  26th — 29th;  J.  M.  Sliaffer,  Sec¬ 
retary. 

Michigan,  Adrian,  Sept.  19th— 22d. 

New  York,  Utica,  Sept.  13th — 15th,  Col.  B.P.  Johnson, 
Albany,  Secretary. 

Ohio,  Columbus,  Sept.  121h— 14th  ;  J.  H.  Klippart,  Sec¬ 
retary 

Pennsylvania,  Williamsport,  Sept.  26th — 29lh. 

Provincial  Exliibition  at  London,  C.  W.,  Sept.  18 — 22. 

FAIB&S. 

Delaware  Co.,  Oliio,  Delaware,  Sept.  26th-28th. 

York  Co.,  Maine,  Saco  and  Biddefoid,  Oct.  10-12. 

Worcester  Co.,  Mass.  Horticultural  Society,  Sept.  19- 
20-21-22. 

Fairfield  Co.,  Conn.,  Norwalk,  Sept.  2Tth-301h;  Ed¬ 
win  lioyt.  New  Canaan,  Secretary. 

Cattaraugus  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Little  Valley,  Sept.  26th-28th. 

Chautauqua  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Sept.  5-6-7. 

Dutcliess  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Ponglikeepsie,  Sept.  26th  to  28th. 

Jefferson  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Watertown,  Sept.  5-6-7  ;  J.  Stears, 
Jr..  Secretary 

Oxford,  Chenango  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Sept.  25th-27th. 

Putman  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Carmel,  Sept.  13-14-15;  C.  M. 
Belden,  Secretary. 

Queens  Co.  N.  Y.,  Flusliing,  Oct.  4-5. 

Saratoga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  Saratoga  Springs,  Sept.  5-8;  J.  A. 
Covey,  Secretary. 

Susquelianna  Valley,  Otsego  Co.,  Unadilla,  N.  Y.,  Sept. 
21-22;  Rob't  W.  Courtney,  Sidney,  Secretary. 

Ulster  Co.  N.  Y.,  Kingston.  Sept.  20-22. 

Burlington  Co.,  N.  J.,  Mount  Holly,  Oct.  3-4;  Geo.  C. 
Brown,  Secretary. 

Bnc.lis  Co.,  Pa.,  Newtown,  Sept.  26-2" ;  James  B. 
Lambert.  Secretary. 

Mt.  Pleasant.  Pa.,  Equitable  Agricultural  Association, 
at  Hickory,  Sept.  27-28;  Geo.  Buchanan,  Secretary. 

Belmont  Co.,  Oldo,  Belmont.  Sept.  19-20-21  ;  A.  P. 
Miller,  Secretary. 

Genesee  Co.,  Mich.,  Flint,  Sept.  27-28-29  ;  F.  H.  Ran¬ 
kin,  Secretary. 

DeKalb  Co.  Ill.,  DeKalb,  Sept.  27-29  ;  S.  O.  Vaughn, 
Secretary. 

Kankakee  Co.,  Ill.,  Kankakee,  Oct.  4-6 ;  Emory 
Cobb,  Pres. 

Madison  Co.,  III.,  Edw'ardsville,  Aug.  29,  Sept.  I  ;  Ed¬ 
ward  iM.  West,  Secretary. 

Mercer  Co.,  Ill.,  iMillersburg,  Sept.  26-28;  J.  E..Bay, 
Secretary. 

Montgomery  Co.,  Ill.,  Hillsboro,  Oct.  11-13. 

Richland  Co.,  Ill.,  Olney,  Sept.  28-30:  J.  W.  Beck, 
Secretary. 

Clinlon  Co.,  Iowa,  Lyons,  Sept.  12-13-14-15;  Wm.  W. 
Sanborn,  Secretary. 

Lamblon.  Sarnia,  C.  W.  Oct.  5  ;  E.  Watson,  Secretary. 

Victoria,  C.  W.,  Lindsey. 

Hampshire,  Franklin,  and  Hampden,  Mass.,  North 
Hampton,  Oct.  5-6  ;  A.  P.  Peck  Secretary 

Laporte  Co..  Ind  ,  Laporle,  Sept,  27lh  to  29th. 


THE  IaAHIES  MKE  IT!!! 

Tliousands  of  the  SEWING  RIPPER  have  been  sold 
ami  not  a  single  complaint  made.  It  takes  out  a  seam 
rapidly  and  safely,  whether  sewed  by  hand  or  by  ma- 
cliine,  i.s  neat,  small,  does  not  get  out  of  order,  and  is 
needed  in  every  lady’s  work  basket.  Agents  wanted. 

Send  50  cents  for  a  sample  to 

A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York  Cily. 


Advertisements,  to  he  sure  of  insertion,  must  he  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  the  1  Oth  of  the  preceding  month. 

N.  B.— AT? ' Advertisement  of  Patent  Jfedicines  or  secret 
remedies  de.sired.  Parties  unknown  to  the  Editors  personal¬ 
ly  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  will  do  what  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  up  to  these  requirements,  ice  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves. 


One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 
One  half  column  (74  lines),  $65  each  insertion. 

One  whole  column  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  line. 


$1®® 

One  Hundred  Dollars  in  United  States  greenbacKs 
will  be  given  for  the  largest  Frog  sent  to  the  “  Grand 
Exhibition  of  Bull  Frogs.”  For  full  particulars  see  the 
July  number  of  “THE  FUNNIEST.”  This  number 
will  be  mailed  to  parties  on  the  receipt  of  fifteen  cents. 

Address  J.  M.  SIIEICK,  “Funniest  Office,” 

39  &  40  Park  Row,  New  York. 

Ten  other  premiums  ranging  from  $20  downward  will 
be  paid  for  prize  Bull  Frogs.  “THE  FUNNIEST”  can 
be  had  of  all  newsdealers.  Send  your  orders  in  advance. 


Veg-etal>le 


For  Sowing  in  August  and  September. 

The  following  varieties  will  be  mailed  post-paid,  to  any 
address  In  the  Union  upon  receipt  of  the  price  affixed. 

„  per  oe.  pound. 

Eadtsh,  Scarlet,  Clioiee  Winter .  30  cts.  $4  00 

do  Black  Spanish .  15  “  i  .so 

Lettuce.  Hardy  Hammersmitt .  40  “  4  00 

do  Winter  Cabbage .  40  “  4  00 

Spinach,  Prickly .  ]o  “  75 

Endive,  Green  Curled . .  40  “  400 

Corn  Salad  or  Lamb’s  Lettuce .  .  15  “  2  00 

Kale,  Green  Curled  Scotch .  25  “  2  50 

Cabbage,  Large  Early  York .  25  “  2  50 

do  Early  Winningstadt .  50  “  4  30 

do  Premium  Flat  Dutch .  35  "  4  00 

Caultplowkr,  Half  Early  Paris . 2  00  20  00 

do  Early  London .  73  “  8  00 

do  Large  Stadtholder . l  00  12  00 

The  above  varieties  of  C.abbage  and  Cauliflower  are  exten¬ 
sively  grown  by  Market  Gardeners  near  onr  large  cities 
The  seed  maybe  sown  in  September,  and  planted  out  tliickly 
in  cold  frames,  and  protected  during  winter  liy  sliutters. 
Transplant  early  in  spring  and  they  will  be  ready  to  cut  in 
June  and  July.  Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Sheffield  Scientific  School  of  Yale  College. 

Courses  of  Agricultural  Instruction,  Including  the  Prac¬ 
tice  of  Agriculture  and  Horticulture,  Agricultural  Chemistry 
and  Physiology,  Principles  of  Breeding  and  Feeding,  Inju¬ 
rious  Insects,  Rural  Economy,  Forestry,  French  and  German 
Languages,  &o.,  &c.  Open  Sept.  13th.  1865.  For  detailed  Pro¬ 
gramme,  apply  to  ProLGEO.  J.  BRUSH,  New  Haven,  Conn. 


^FFEKHOBIEFAKM  EAr«l>.— 20.000 

43 Acres,  Franklin  Tract,  at  Ncwlleld,  Gloucester  County, 
New  Jersey,  on  the  B.allroad  running  from  Philadelphia  to 
Cape  May,  30  miles  South  of  Philadelphia — adjoining  the 
Vineland  Tract,  and  2  miles  North  of  the  Vineland  Station— 
for  sale  at  low  prices  and  on  easy  terms,  in  lots  to  suit  pur¬ 
chasers.  Circulars  with  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  Hon. 
William  Parry,  and  others,  witli  full  information,  sent  to  ap¬ 
plicants,  free.  Address  JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO„  New- 
lleld,  Gloucester  Co.,  N.  J.  Improved  Farms  also  for  Sale. 


JAKlIATT’g  IIOTEIa, 

PETERSBURGH,  VA., 

JAMES  H.  PLATT,  jR.,  Proprietor. 


Tift©  liigiataaiiag  FIj-Miller 

Destroys  Flies  inst.antly,  and  is  not  liable  to  be  mis¬ 
taken  for  anything  else.  Is  easily  prepared  and  used, 
and  does  rapid  execution.  Each  slieet  will  attract  and 
kill  a  Quart  of  Flies— and  promotes  quiet  in  reading, 
peace  while  you  eat,  and  the  comforts  of  a  nap  in  the 
morning.  Sold  by  all  Druggists. 


MilSstoaie  Dressing:  Diamonds 

Set  in  Patent  Protector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  JOHN 
DICKENSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  of  Diamonds  for  all  Mechanical  purposes.  Also  Man¬ 
ufacturer  of  Glaziers’  Diamonds,  No.  61  Nassau-st.,  New- 
York  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  postage 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  the  Diamond  Dresser. 


Evarts  Tree  Protector. 

Perfect  protection  against  Insects.  Town,  County,  and 
State  Biglits  for  sale  at  low  prices. 

DAVID  LYMAN,  Middlefleld,  Conn. 


Photographs  of  premium  Chester 

White  Pigs.  Price  50  cents  each.  Sent  bv  mail.  Address 
N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


THOROUGH-BRED  Alderncj's  and  Ayrshircs  for 
sale  by  A.  M.  TBEDWELL,  Madison,  Morris  Co.,  N.  J. 


BASHEULNESS.— HOW  TO  OVERCOME  IT. 
See  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL.  Jan.  No.  20  cts. 
FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadway,  New-York. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


259 


The  July  Edition  of  our  Cataiogue  is  now  ready,  and 
Will  be  sent  to  all  applicants  enclosing  10  cents. 


J.  KNOX 

r>ox  155,  Pittsburg!!,  Pa. 

Aclirondac,  Earliest  and  best  Native  Grape, 

135,000  Vines,  1,  2  and  3  years. 

5,000  do  Delaware,  1,  2  and  3  years. 

a,500  do  Iona,  1  and  2  years, 

13,000  do  Israella,  1  and  2  years.  Also 


NOTICE  T®  SlIIFFERS, 

S^AF-MAMEISS,  CHAMB- 

MEREMAMTS. 

Tlie  undersigned  pay  their  particular  attention  to  Ailing 
orders  for 

ISosin,  Palm  Oil,  Soda  Asli,  Sal  Soda, 
Caustic  Soda,  Indigo,  &c.  Consignments 
of  Tallow,  Orease,  and  General  Western 
Produce  promptly  sold  liy 

ABM  AM  Sc 

Comimi§sl©ij  Merclaaiits, 

32  Walea’"§f.,  Mcw-York  City. 

SEFEBSBM  BBAIM  TIEE 


A  Superior  Stoclc  of  tlie  following  : 
Allen’s  Hybrid,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Creveling,  Concord,  Hart¬ 
ford  ProliAc,  Rebecca,  Union  Village,  Northern  Muscadine, 
Maxatawney,  Cuyahoga,  Telegraph,  Miles,  Teddo,  &c.,  &c. 

Priced  Trade  Circulars,  and  Descriptive  Circular  forward¬ 
ed  on  application.  JOHN  W.  BAILEV, 

Plattsburgh,  Clinton  Co.,  N.  T. 


THE  NEW  PRIZE  STRAWBERRY  “  RIPPOWAM.” 

A  Seedling  raised  by  JAS.  W.  FAULKNER,  Stamford, 
Conn.,  having  been  thoroughly  tested,  the  plants  are  now 
offered  for  sale.  As  a  solid  marketable  berry,  it  is  unsur¬ 
passed  ;  enormous  in  size,  ftwelve  berries  weighing  a  fall 
half-pound,)  sweet,  rich  and  spicy  in  Aavor,  of  a  bright  red 
color,  growing  upon  long  stems  and  rivalling  the  “  Wilson's 
Albany,”  in  its  prolific  hearing :  foliage  large,  plants,  vigor¬ 
ous  and  hardy.  All  orders  sent  to  the  Stamford  Nursery, 
Stamford,  Conn.,  will  receive  prompt  attention,  if  accom¬ 
panied  with  the  money.  Price  two  dollars  per  dozen. 


The  ^Kreat  Agrlci8ltMri§t 
StrawherB'y. 

Fine  plants  of  this  superb  fruit,  $1  per  dozen  ;  $5  per  100 ; 
$23  per  1000 ;  with  all  other  superior  sorts,  tlie  best  collec¬ 
tion  in  the  country.  Agents  wanted.  Catalogues  ready. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


The  Plsiladelpliia,  lSass>berry. 

Wilson’s  Early  Klacltberry. 

Best  Selected  Strawberries. 

Emit  and  Ornamental  Trees,  Vines,  Asparagus  and  Rim- 
barb  Plants.  Send  for  Catalogues  gratis. 

WILLIAM  PARRY,  Cinnamlnson,  N.  J. 


To  AgesBfs  aiacl  the  Trade. 

My  Autumn  Catalogue  is  now  ready,  ^v^th  great  induce¬ 
ments  to  Agents.  B.  M.  "WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plj'moutli,  Mass, 


Thirty  acres  strawberries,  inclucUnf^the  new  sorts 
Agriculturist,  Russell,  French,  &c.,  at  the  lowest  adver* 
tised  rates,  and  charges  pre-paid.  Agents  wanted.  Circulars, 
Handbills,  &c.,  sent  on  application.  A.  M.  Purdy,  So.  BeDd,Ind. 


The  hog  BREEDER’S  MANUAL  sent  to  any 

address  free  of  charge,  every  farmer  should  have  it. 
Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co..  Pa. 


Webb  ^oaatla  Bowbi  Sheep. 

I  have  now  ready  for  sale  and  rent  80  rams.  For  sale  a  few 
yearling  and  older  ewes,  also  ram  and  ewe  lambs,  quality 
surpassed  by  none,  J.  C.  TAYLOR,  Holmdel,  N.  J. 


PERSONS  WISHING  TO  GET  THE  BEST 
breed  of  hogs  in  the  United  States,  please  Address 
N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  CO.,  Pa. 


BONE  DUST. 


For  Pure,  Fresli  Bone  Superphosphate  of  Lime,  and  fine 
Ground  Bone  Dust,  Wliolesale  or  Retail. 

Address  A.  LISTER  &  BRO., 

Ceres  Bone  Mills, 

Newark,  N.  J. 


MTEBTfORK  MB!!! 

THE 


HMfflMKKIfr  WRIHGER 


Covered  with  Beautiful  White  Duck,  the  Best 
the  cheapest,  and  most  durable,  Cork  Rolls,  Cog  Wheels, 
Galvanized  Iron  Frame.  Depot  of  tlie  Company  491  Broad¬ 
way,  New  York.  Price  $3.00.  Agents  and  Shippers  liberal¬ 
ly  dealt  with.  Send  for  Circular. 

PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
Sent  by  Express  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Prices,  Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


made  of  the  celebrated,  strong,  tenacious  clay  of  Wood- 
bridge,  N.  J.,  burned  with  Intense  heat  over  the  Fire  Brick, 
in  Fire  Brick  kilns,  and  sold  at  moderate  prices,  as  the  clay 
must  be  removed  from  over  v.alnable  beds  of  the  best 
White  Ware,  and  Fire  Brick  clay.  Also  double  glazed 
Stone  Ware  Pipe,  with  collars  for  mailing  water-tight  pipe  to 
conduct  pure  water  free  from  rust  and  poison.  Stove  Lin¬ 
ings  and  Fire  Brick,  &c.,  &c.,  of  best  quality.  Shipped  by 
Railroad  or  water  direct  from  Factory,  on  Sliip  Channel  of 
Raritan  River,  27  miles  from  New  Y’'ork  City. 

CROSSMAN  BROS’.  &  CO.,  Woodbridge,  N.  J. 


TAXIDERMISTS’  MANUAL, 


ROaUES 


GTATNG  full  instruction  in  Skinning,  Mounting  and  Pre¬ 
serving  Birds,  Animals,  Reptiles,  Fishes,  Insects,  Eggs, 
Skeletons,  &c.  Sent  by  mail,  postpaid,  on  receipt  of  $1.00. 

Address  S.  H.  SYLVESTER,  Taxidermist, 

Miiltllc'box-o’,  Mass. 

AND  ROGUERIES  OF  N.  Y. 

Ready  August  15,  will  contain  a 
full  exposure  of  all  Traps  and  Ras¬ 
calities  of  the  great  city.  Nu¬ 
merous  illustrative  engravings,  over  100  large  12  mo.  pages,, 
only  35  cents  a  copy.  Full  exposures  will  be  found  of  the 
tlioiisands  of  traps  set  for  tlie  unwary,  tlic  tempting  baits 
held  out  to  lure  to  destruction,  and  cverytUing  that  any 
one  should  know  to  guard  against  the  dangers  of  the  city. 
It  also  contains  full  and  complete  exposures  of  all  the 
swindles  carried  on  througli  tlie  mails,  items  of  interest  about 
swindlers,  how  tliey  carry  on  their  operations,  real  and  fic¬ 
titious  names,  cute  dodges,  liow  people  are  gulled  and  how 
sharpers  are  sometimes  caught  in  their  own  traps.  Many 
months  have  been  spent  in  coliectiiig  the  facts  contained  in 
this  book,  and  it  is  the  most  interesting  and  v.alu.able  work 
of  the  kind  ever  issued.  Sold  by  all  booksellers  and  news¬ 
men,  or  sent  post-paki  for  3-5  cents.  §3  per  dozen,  post¬ 
paid.  .1.  C.  HANEY  &  CO.,  Piiblisiicrs,  109  Nassau-st.,  N.  Y. 

Send  in  your  orders  early  so  as  to  get  early  copies. 


INVALID’S  TRAVELING 
CHAIRS,  for  in  or  out  door  use. 
Prices,  $20  to  $50.  Tliose  like  tlie 
cut,  $25  to  $35,  liglit  and  strong. 
Can  be  propelled  hv  file  hands.— 
PATENT  CANTERING  HOIiSES, 
for  «ut-door  exercise  and  amuse¬ 
ment.  Every  boy  and  girl  wants 
one,  prices  $12  to  $25.  Send  stamp 
for  circular.  Children’s  Carriages, 
Horse  Rocking  Cliairs.  etc. 

S.  W.  SMITH. 

90  William-st.,  New-Tork. 


Help  for 

Dr.  Brown’s  BABY  TENDER  relieves  the  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  child.  Is  giving  universal  satis 
faction.  See  full  description  and  Mr.  Judd’s  endorse¬ 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dec.  No.,  1564.  Send  for  Circular 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS,  939  Broadway,  New  Y'ork  City. 


India  Mnlstoer  Cllnves 

are  an  invaluable  protection  for  the  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Salt  Rheum,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  Sixes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYEAR’S  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 


SEVEN  OCTAVE. 

ROSEWOOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GROVESTEEN  &  CO.,  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latest  improvements. 

Thirty  years’ experience,  with  greatly  increased  facilities 
for  manufacturing,  enable  us  to  sell  for  C A  SH  at  the  above 
unusually  loi^rice.  Our  instruments  received  the  higliest 
award  at  the  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  successive  years  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Cash..  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 


Notice  to  churches  and  schools.— 

BELLS  within  the  reach  of  all.  The  AMALGAM  BELL, 
known  tliroughoiit  the  United  States  and  Canadas  as  the 
cheapest  and  best.  Price  reduced  to  20  cents  per  pound,  and 
warranted.  Send  for  descriptive  circular  to  the  manufactur¬ 
er,  JOHN  B.  ROBINSON,  No.  36  Dey-st,  New  York. 


GROVER  &,  BAKER’S 

HIGHEST  PREMIUM 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  LOCK  STITCH 

SEWING  MACHINES, 

495  BROAmvAY,  NEW  YORK. 


Simple,  Strong  and  Dnrahle, 

And  unapproactiable  for  speed,  power  and  effectiveneae 
of  operation.  PRICES  REDUCED. 

Dealers  Supplied.  Send  for  free  Circular  to 

OAKLEY'  &  KEATING,  184  YVater-st.,  New-Tork. 


Ii®ck  Sewiiig-  Machine, 


For  Families  and  Manufacturers, 


THE  HOWE  MACHINE  CO., 
No.  629  Broadway,  New-York. 


¥hat  matchless  heauty 


Lingers  ou  every  glossy  wave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

WEN'S’ 
PATENT 

HAIR 

GRIMPERS, 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies  hair.  Ko  heat  used,  and 
no  injury  to  the  hair. 

Tliey  are  put  up  in  beautl- 
flilly  lithographed  boxes  con¬ 
taining  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengths,  with  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  Is  complete  without  them.  For  sale 
throughout  the  country.  Retailers  will  he  supplied  by  any 
first-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  Y'ork,  Philadelphia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 
E.  rVINS,  Sixth-st.  and  Columbia  Ave., 
Philadelphia,  Pa. 


PORTABLE 

PRINTING  OFFICES. 


For  Merchants,  Druggists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers 
&c.  Address  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  26  Anu-st,,  New  Tor£ 
Specimen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &c.,  Six  cents. 


aeo 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[AuGuar, 


PHICE§  HEOTJCEP 


Pioneer  Sorgo  Machiiiery. 

COOK’S  EVAPORATOR. 


^IMPLE  aflair.  Operates  admirably.  The 

^best  apprtratns.”— [American  Agriculturist. 

Of  all  the  Evaporators  we  have  seen,  the  most  satisfacto* 
ry^  results  are  from  Cook’s.”— [Prairie  Farmer. 

‘The  only  one  which  attained  general  success  last  year, 
either  at  the  fairs  or  among  the  people.”— [Ohio  Farmer. 

“  Six  years’ thorough  trial  demonstrates  that  it  is  without 
a  rival,  either  in  the  economy  of  its  use  or  the  excellence  of 
Its  work.”— [Genesee  Farmer. 


The  Universal  Clothes  Wringer, 


Pans  for  Brick  Arches. 


Wl'l'Sa  COG  WBIEEC,S. 

Peices— No.  IK,  $10 ;  No.  2,  $8  50. 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST. 

“  This  is  the  first  Wrinirer  I  have  found  that  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.”— J.  P.  Huggins,  Lovejoy’s  Hotel. 
“  In  the  laundry  of  my  house  tliere  is  a  perpetual  tlianks. 

fiviug  on  5Iondays  for  tlie  invention  of  your  c.xcelleut 
Vrinser.”— Kev.  TTieo.  L.  Ccylee. 

“  We  think  tlie  Machine  much  more  thai^ays  for  itself 
every  year  in  the  saving  of  garments.”  “We  think  It  im¬ 
portant  that  a  Wringer  should,  he  fitted  with  COGS.” 

Oii.iNGE  .ItiDD,  American  Agriculturist. 
“The  inventor  of  this  Machine  may  have  the  satisfaction 
of  knowing  that  he  has  changed  one  of  the  most  toilsome 
parts  of  woman's  work  into  a  most  attractive  amusement.” — 
Mrs.  Henry  Ward  Beecher. 

“  I  heartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment.” — Hev.  Dr.  Bellows. 

CF”  On  receipt  of  price  from  any  part  of  the  country 
where  we  have  no  canvassers,  we  send  the  Wringer  free  of 
freight  charges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  township. 

R.  C.  BROWNIWCl,  347  Broadw.ay,  IV.  Y. 


Cured  by  Bates’ Patent  Appliances.  For  descriptive  pam* 
phlet,  Address  11.  C.  L.  MEAliS,  277  West  23d-st.,  N.  Y, 


HaitcSaiiisoBs’s  Patent 
Wine  and  Cider  Mill, 

with  Press  combined,  can  make  four 
barrels  per  day.  Greatly  Improved 
this  year. 

Price  complete,  at  Peekskill,  or  New- 

York . $22  r,0 

“  “  Cleveland,  0 .  21  00 

Send  for  Descriptive  Circular. 
Address 

PEEKSKILL  PLOW  WOKKS, 
Peekskill,  N.  Y., 
or  G.  E.  HUTCHINSON,  Cleveland.  O. 

MaBiufactneers  of  Agricasltiiral  Im- 

plements.  Ornamental  Iron  WorU,  Steam 
Pipes,  Boilers,  will  find 

TSse  IBIaek  ©iamoaid  Varnisli 

equal  to  the  best  for  all  purposes  where  a  quick  drying, 
Insti-oiis  VsrruisH  Is  required.  It  costs  only  one  quar¬ 
ter  as  much. 

THE  JOHNS  &  CP.OSLEY  MANUFACTURING  CO., 

78  William-.st,,  corner  Liberty,  New-York. 


English  Eltistic  Hlach. 

A  pure,  elastic,  fire-proof  varnisb.  lieafly  for  use  in 
10  gallon  kegs,  and  40  gallon  bbls.  Warrantcfl  the  most 
durable  and" economical  paint  for  all  kinds  of  lioofs.  Iron 
fences,  boilers,  castings,  smoke  pipes  and  all  other  exposed 
tin  and  iron  work.  Special  Terms  to  Agents: 

Also  “  Linskkd  Oil  Substitute  ’’—the  best  and  cheapest. 

F.  A.  WHITING  &  CO., 

Victoria  White  Lead  Works, 

104  Water-st.,  New  York. 


Every  Farmer  wlao  lias  Wagons, 

Plows,  Reapers,  Kettles,  or  any  Farm  Utensils 
worth  preserving,  can  add  Fifty  per  cent,  to  tlicir 
wear  by  keeping  them  protected  with 

Tlic  Giitta  Pcrelia  Cement  Paint. 

The  clieapest  and  best  preservative  Paint  In  the  world. 
Has  been  tested  eight  years,  is  always  ready  for  use 

THE  JOHNS  &  CIIOSLEY  MANUFACTURING  CO., 
Sole  Manufacturers, 

No.  78  William-st.,  corner  Liberty,  New-York. 


Hot  Water  Fttriiaces 

for  Warming  tlrccn-lioiiscs.  Conservato¬ 
ries,  Graperies,  Jkc. 

WEATHERED  &  CUEREVOY.  117  Prlnce-st,,  New-York. 


Wc  manufacture  Pans  (on  the  “Cook”  principle)  for  Brick 
Arches,  at  about  one  half  tlie  price  of  the  Evaporator. 
ILLUSTRATED  PAMPHLET  SENT  FREE. 

Parties  wishing  the  Agency  for  the  COOK  EVAPORATOR, 
and  the  CLAIUC  SORGO  MACHINE  CO'S  CANE  MILLS, 
should  direct  to  our  address. 

Blymyer,  Bates  &  Bay, 
Mansfield,  Ohio. 


The  “Tictei*”  Csiiae  Mills. 


Only  MitI  wiSlt  r^'satiosaal  BSe|sss4aSi«>ii. 


DIAGONALLY  BRACED-LAPPED  GEARING-OIL- 

TIGHT  STEP  BOXES— FLUTED  FEED  ROLL- 
FLANGED  MAIN  ROLL— NO  KEYS  USED. 

The  Clark  Sorgo  Machine  Co., 

are  tlie  OLDEST  and  MOST  EXPERIENCED  manufactur- 
ers  of  SORGO  .MACHINERY  in  the  United  States.  Their 
list  of  Cane  Mills  embraces  EIGHTEEN  different  styles  and 
sizes  of  ]'e7'tical,  and  SPIVEN  of  Uorizovdal  Mills,  combining 
TWELVE  distinct  Patents. 

Their  Mills  have  been  awarded  the  FIRST  PREMIUM  at 
THIRTEEN  State  Fairs. 

The  Company  invite  special  attention  to  their  latest  style 
Mill,  the  Vielor,  represented  in  the  cut  above,  as  its  con¬ 
struction  embraces  principles  entirely  new,  and  distinguish¬ 
ing  it  from  all  other  Mills. 

ILLUSTRATED  PAMPHLET  SENT  FREE. 

Clark  Sorgo  Machine  Co., 
116  Main-street,  Cincinnati,  Ohio. 


Clas’k  Casie  MiiSs  siaid  Cook’s 
Evsi|9orat«r§  Cilia 

he  purchased  on  same  terms  at  the  New  York  Agencj-,  as  at 
the  Manufacturers.  J.  W.  BAIN,  Brest.  American  Agricul¬ 
tural  Works,  17  Courtlandt-strect. 


FAIKKANM’S' 


STlffllRD^  SCALES. 


Adapted  to  every  branch  of  business  where  a  correct  and 
durable  scale  Is  required. 

EAIISIIAWKS  &  C®., 

No.  252  Broad  av ay, 

OPPOSITE  CSTY  HALL. 


3Paai-clr£tsing-  A^g-eircy, 
HARVEY  B.  LAKE. 

1  51  Nassau-st.,  New  Vorlt. 

STIEA^^  1SE2S8SIES. 

Osders  filled  for  the  Agriculturist,  all  the  nev  Mi* 
desirable  kinds. 

GKAPE  VSKE§. 

Iona,  Israella,  Adirondao,  Delaware,  Concord,  A'lle;- 
Hyhrid,  etc.,  of  superior  quality. 


Woo4lruti'’s  I’orsafole  Raroincter. 


Universal  Clotlics  yv ringer.— Reduced  Prices 


Hiitcliinsoii’s  Wine  atid  Uider  Rress,  $22. 


Uynian’s  Glass  Fruit  JTars— Rest  in  Use. 


[Patent  pending.] 


The  Union  Apple  Uarer. 

ENTIRELY  NEW 

The  Union  Apple  Paring  Machine  is  so  constructed  that 
the  Knife  Pares  going  both  ways,  tlms  avoiding  a  waste  of 
time  in  turning  back  without  paring,  and  also,  overcoming 
the  objections  to  the  “  snap  machines." 

It  contains  a  less  number  of  parts  than  any  other  machine 
in  market. 

The  gears  are  all  connected  directly  with  each  other,  there¬ 
by  dispensing  with  the  arbor  or  rod  to  connect  them,  and 
whicli  has  always  been  liable  to  work  loose  and  turn  aronnd 
witliout  moving  the  parts. 

It  is  about  tlie  usual  weiglit  of  others  but  more  compact, 
thus  being  stronger. 

It  is  very  neat  as  will  he  seen  by  the  above  cut. 

It  is  very  thorough  in  its  construction,  and  is  not  liable  to 
get  out  of  order  by  constant  or  hard  using. 

Only  four  turns  of  the  Crank  »re  required  to  pare  each  apple 

It  has  a  straight  knife,  consequently  leaves  the  apple 
smooth  and  luandsome. 

Great  pains  have  been  taken  to  perfect  this  machine  in  all 
its  parts,  and  it  is  warranted  entirely  satisfactokt. 

For  Sale  by  all  Dealers. 

Also  Peach  Parers  and  Paring,  Coring  and  Slicing 
Macliines. 

WUITTEMORE  BROTHERS,  Sole  JIanufacturers, 
Worcester,  Mass. 


Tlie  Best  in  America. 


The  Railway  Horse  Power  that  is  unequalled  for  ease  of 


team,  amount  of  power,  and  h.as  never  failed  to  take  the 
FIRST  PREMIUM  OVER  ALL.  ITS  COMPE¬ 
TITORS  wherever  tested.  The  Comliined  Thresher  and 
Cleaner  that  Cleans  equal  to  any  Fanning  Mill, 
fit  for  Mill  or  Market.  Threshers,  Separators,  Panning  Jfllls, 
Wood  Saws,  Seed  Sowers  and  Planters,  &c.  All  of  the  BEST 
in  market.  Send  in  orders  early,  as  wc  are  governed  by  “first 
come,  first  served.”  For  further  information  send  for  Cir¬ 
cular.  Address  R.  &  M.  HARDER, 

CoLleskill,  Sclioliarie  Co.,  N.  Y. 


American  roofing  company. 

GREEN'S  PATENT. 

This  Company  Is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  the  best 
articles  of  ROOFING  ever  introduced,  consistlnaof  aSTOUT 
MATERIAL  made  WATER  PROOF  1)V  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  RUBBER,  hardened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  expressly. 

The  WHOLE  FABRIC  has  been  thoroughly  tested,  is  entire 
ly  WATER-PROOF,  and  unalfccted  by  changes  of  weather. 
It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Cloth. 

It  Is  designed  for  coverina  RAILWAY  ('ARS.  STEAM¬ 
BOATS,  DWELLINGS.  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  cheaper  than  any  known  roofing  of  equal  durability. 
It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samjdes  bad  by  anplying  at  the 
Office  of  the  Company.  No.  04  Wall  si..  New  Vork. 

HENRY  SMITH.  Agnet. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


361 


UcTic©  for  Pl®wiM§'-lii  Corn¬ 


stalks,  Weeds,  StiitoMes,  &c. 


*‘naw  it  operate  on  a  heavy  growth  of  standing  Broom* 
com  stalks,  in  Schoharie  Valley,  N.  Y.  It  %vorked  admirably, 
covering  every  particle  in  the  furrow/’— H.  E.  Abell,  Scho¬ 
harie  Union,  N.  Y.,  Mr,  Hallexbece,  Farmer,  Sclio.,  N.  Y. 

“We  witnessed  a  trial  of  “  Kilmer  Bros.  Attachment/  on  a 
niece  of  Broom-corn  stalks,  a  large  portion  of  which  were 
lying  on  the  ground.  A  perfect  success.  The  farmers  inter¬ 
ests  advanced.”— L.  Sanford,  Ex-Judge,  Wm.  H.  Davis,  Esq., 
Scholiarie,  N.  Y, 

“The  action  of  the  main  chain  when  properly  attached, 
and  regulated  by  the  smaller  guide  chain  attached  to  the 
plow  handles,  seemed  so  to  act  as  to  completely  sweep  under 
tlie  furrow  all  standing  grass,  stalks,  or  stubble,  while  the 
fixtures  are  extremely  simple  and  easy  of  application,”— Ex- 
trad  Report  American  Institute  Farmer’s  Club,  N.  Y. 

“The  Invention  was  tried  in  a  field  on  the  Troy  Road,  N. 
Y..  July  7, 180;},  and  worked  perfectly/’— Evening  Journal, 
Albany,  N.  Y. 

“A  trial  of  the  Machine  took  place  to-day,  on  a  piece  of 
ground  overgrown  with  weeds  fully  five  feet  high.  All 
entirely  covered/’— Albany  Argus, 

“  We  saw  it  operate  on  a  field  thickly  covered  with  a  rank 
growth  of  weeds.  Its  success  was  complete/’— Country 
Uentleman,  Albany,  N.  Y. 

“  We  recently  saw  it  tested  on  Long  Island,  N.  Y.,  in  plow¬ 
ing  weeds,  and  it  operated  in  a  most  successful  manner.”— 
S.  E.  Todd,  American  Agriculturist,  N.  Y, 

For  further  particulars,  Address 

^  1)8  KIIiMEli,  Bariierville, 

Sff'lioliarie  Co®,  N-  1/*. 

See  Editorial  remarks  on  page  244  of  this  number. 


Iiiip©Ftfiiat  t®  Farmer® 

©EI1I.L.  SELECT  WMEAT. 

READ  THE  FOLLOWING  CERTIFICATE. 

“Tlie  uiKlersisnefl.  farmers  of  DeKaH)  Co.,  Ind..  after  a  full 
and  satisfactory  trial  of  DEIHL  SELECT  WHEAT,  certify 
that  it  is  a  beautifnl  WHITE  WHEAT,  ripenins: 
fully  as  early  as  the  MEDiTKitKANEAN  or  other  Red  wheat, 
sqvtaily  hardy,  withstands  the  rava.ses  of  all  insects  quite  as 
■well,  and  yields  at  least  one  third  more  to  the  acre.  It  is  a 
Bniooth  wheat,  the  straw  short  and  stiff,  standing  up  remark¬ 
ably  well,  and  is  an  entirely  distinct  variety  from  any  other 
wit’ll  which  we  have  ever  met,  and  by  far  the  best  and  most 
profitable  to  raise 

Geo.  Egnew.  Je-remtah  Lewis, 

Jso.  McLukdt,  Abraham  Ockee, 

Noau  Sho-walter,  and  others. 

For  sale  in  sacks  of  2  bushels  each,  at  $6  per  sack,  or  in 
barrels  of  3><  bushels,  at  $10  each,  by 

A.  Al.  HALSTED.  07  Pearl-st.,  New  York. 

F.  BISSEL,  Toledo,  Ohio, 
and  by  the  subscribers, 

T.  J.  &  J.  T.  SHELDON,  Cleveland,  Ohio. 


Seeds  for  Fall  Sowing. 

Early  White  and  Red  Top  Strap  Leaf,Tellow  Stone,  Yel¬ 
low  Aberdeen,  Orange  Jelly,  or  Golden  Ball,  Cow  Horn  (ex¬ 
cellent  tor  stock),  Ruta-Baga,  and  several  other  kinds  of 
Turnip  seed,  at  10  cents  pgr  ounce,  30  cents  for  four  ounces, 
$l  per  pound.  Siberian  Kale,  20  cents  per  ounce,  $2  per 
pound.  American  Round  Leaf  Spinach,  four  ounces,  2.)  cts., 
per  pound,  SO  cents.  Brill’s  tme  Early  Wakelield  Cab¬ 
bage  seed,  75  cents  per  ounce,  $10  per  pound.  Improved  Let¬ 
tuce,  Simpson’s  Silesia,  Butter,  and  Hardy  Green  at  40  cents 
per  ounce,  $4  per  pound.  Any  of  the  above  sent  post-paid  by 
mail  on  receipt  of  price.  Send  for  circular  with  directions 
for  cultivatioa.  BRILL  &  KUMERLE,  153  Broad-st., 
Newark,  New  Jersey, 


90,®©®  liilitiiii  Laracifoliiiim, 
or  efapaii  Lily, 

Rubrura  and  Koseum,  each  50  cents,  t-welve,  $4,  one  hun¬ 
dred,  $'25,  one  thousand,  $'200.  Album,  50  to  75  cents  each, 
$4  to  $3  per  dozen.  Monstrosum  Ruhrum,  Roseum  and  Al¬ 
bum,  $1.50  each,  $12  per  dozen.  Melpomene,  $2 each.  Lilimn 
Auratum— the  new  and  magnificent  Japan  Lily,  strong  bulbs, 
$5  each.  FItANCilS  BRILL,  Newark,  New  Jersey. 


A  CIrcailar 

Which  every  body  should  read  for  useful  hints  in  gardening 

guhlished  1st  of  August,  and  contains  priced  lists  of  prize 
trawherries.  Fruit  Trees,  &c..  and  Seedsforfal!  sowing  with 
directions  for  cultivating,  mailed  free  by 

FRANCIS  BRILL,  Nurseryman  and  Seedgrower, 
Newark,  New  Jersey. 


1»EACM  TREES  for  sale, 
which  30,000  are  Hale’s  Early,  a  va¬ 
riety  ripening  fwo  weeks  earlier  tlian  any  other.  Also 
APPLES,  CHERRIES,  PEARS,  <Sic„  Straw¬ 
berries,  Grape  Visres.  For  circular  apply  to 

ISAAC  PULLEN,  Higlitstown,  N.  J. 


«EES>S.— THOMAS  McELROY,  will  o«  and 

^a/ler  1st  Sept.,  receive  orders ./'('oto  t/ie  Trade,  for  Foreign 
Agricultural,  Garden  and  Flower  Seeds.  Growth  1S65,  for 
the  Fall  aud  Spring  Trade.  Correspondents  will  meet  with 
•ttentioQ.  Beed  Groicer  and  Importer,  71  Pine-st,  N.  Y. 


Choice  Flower  Seeds. 

For  Sowing  in  August  aiml  September. 

li.  BLISS, 

Seecismaia  asacl  Florist,  Sprlaigtield,  MasSs, 
Would  invite  the  attention  of  all  who  are  interested  in  the 
culture  of  Flowers,  to  the  following  list  which  have  been 
carefully  selected  from  the  stock  of  several  of  the  most  suc¬ 
cessful  Cultivators  and  Exhibitors  in  Europe,  and  can  be 
confidently  recommended. 


Calceolarias,  Extra  select,  from  flowers  which  took 
the  first  prize  at  the  late  London  and  Continental 

Exhibition .  50 

do*  Fine  mixed,  spotted  and  sells .  25 

dOe  Rugosa,  from  the  finest  shrubby  varieties .  50 

Cineraria,  Extra  choice,  from  all  tlie  new  varieties.,  50 

do«  Fine  mixed,  from  the  best  old  varieties .  25 

Gloxinia,  From  tiie  finest  erect  and  drooping  varieties  50 
Hollyliocks,  (Very  double,)  saved  from  his  unrivalled 
collection  of  seventy-five  English  varieties,  if  sown 

now  will  flower  freely  next  year  (100  seeds) .  25 

Paaisy,  Eiigllsla,  Extra  select,  saved  from  the  finest 

prize  flowers . .  50 

Pansy,  New  Fancy,  Very  beautiful .  50 

Pansy,  Collections  of  12  distinct  varieties . $2  50 

Priintiia  Sinensis  fimisriata,  (Chinese  Primrose 

fringed,)  various  colors  mixed,  extra  qiiality .  50 

do  do  do  white .  2o 

do  do  do  Rose .  25 

Pinlc,  Tree,  or  Perpetual  Carnation,  Contin¬ 
ues  in  flower  a  long  time,  extra  quality  (20  seeds).. ..  50 
Pinic,  Carnation  aiad  PIcotee,  From  celebrated 

German  collection .  50 

Poiyantlms,  Finest  mixed  varieties  from  the  collec¬ 
tion  of  an  English  amateur . 25 

MImnliis,  Finest  mixed  golden  yellow  and  white 
ground,  covered  witli  crimson,  rose  and  scarlet 

blotches . 25 

Tropseoliim,  Finest  mixed  varieties  for  green-house.  25 
Stock,  Scarlet  and  White  Intermediate  London,  extra, 

each . 25 

Stock,  Frcncli  Cocardcaia,  Scarlet  Purple  and 

Wliite,  mixed,  fine  for  winter  flowering . 25 

Stock,  New  German  Ten  Weeks,  Extra  fine, 
many  colors  mixed  . 25 


Stock,  New  White  Wallflower  leaved,  a  superb  variety 
for  pot  culture,  pure  white,  with  large  double  flowers  25 
K.Sio<lantSie  Blaculata,  Maculata  alka, 
Atrosangiiinea,  3  varieties  of  this  beautiful  Ev¬ 


erlasting.  excellent  for  pot-culture,  each.., .  25 

Sweet  Williams,  Hunt’s  extra  select .  25 

Sweet 'iVililsams,  New  Auricula-flowered .  25 

Two  Knglisli  varieties  of  great  merit,  far  surpassing 
anything  hitlierro  oflered. 

Walldower,  Extra  fine  doable  German .  25 


Either  of  the  above  named  seeds,  with  full  directions  for 
culture,  will  be  sent  by  mail,  post-paid,  to  any  address  in  the 
Union,  on  receipt  of  the  price  affixed,  or  the  entire  collec¬ 
tion  lor  SS,30. 

T'wenty  Select  Varieties 

Of  tiardy  Asmwals,  Biennials  &  Pere-nnials, 
for  fall  sowing,  will  also  be  sent  post-paid  for  $1. 

B.  K.  BLISS’  Celebrated  Seed  Catalogue 

and  Guide  to  tine  Flower  Si  KitcHeii  Garden, 
containing  upward  of  One  FJaindrcd  Pages  of  closely 
printed  matter,  beautifully  Illustrated  |  will  be 
mailed  post-paid,  to  all  applicants  enclosing  25  cents. 
Address  J5.  K.  r>LlSS,  Springfield,  Mass. 

TiirsBlp  ^ecd  foy  Mall. 


The  following  varieties,  the  quality  ol  'which  can  not  be 
excelleU,  will  be  mailed  poet-paid,  to  any  address  in  the 
Union  upon  receipt  of  price  aiHxed. 


per  oz. 

4  ozs. 

8  oz-l. 

pound. 

Early  White  Dutch . . 

10  cts. 

85  cts. 

60  cts. 

$1  00 

White  Strap  Leaf . . 

10  “ 

35  ” 

60  “ 

1  00 

Red  Top  Strap  Leaf . 

.10  “ 

35  “ 

CO  “ 

1  00 

Large  White  Globe . . . 

.10  “ 

SO  •* 

50  “ 

75 

Large  White  Norfolk  . 

.10  “ 

SO  “ 

50  '* 

75 

Yellow  Aberdeen . 

.10  •* 

35  “ 

CO  “ 

1  00 

Golden  Ball  (Robertson’s). 

.10  “ 

35  “ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Large  Yellow  Globe,  extra. 10  “ 

S5  “ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Long  White  French . 

.10  “ 

35  “ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Sweet  German . 

.10  “ 

S5  “ 

GO  “ 

1  00 

Long  White  or  Cow  Horn. 

.10  “ 

35  “ 

GO  “ 

1  00 

Purple  Top  Ruta-Baga.... 

.10  “ 

35  “ 

60  “ 

1  00 

Dale’s  Hybrid . 

.10  “ 

30  “ 

50  “ 

75 

Yellow  Finland,... . 

.15  “ 

45  “ 

80  “ 

1  50 

Address  B. 

K.  BLISS,  Sprin 

gfield.  Mass. 

T  nr  nip  Seed  for  Aaigiist, 

Ited  or  Riirjple  T®|>  Straj*  Eeaf, 
by  Mail, 

at  $1  per  pound.  This  variety  may  be  sowed  at  the  rate  of 
One  Pound  per  acre  up  to  the  latter  part  of  August,  and 
produces  a  good  crop. 

J.  JL  THORBUKN  &  Cd, 

15  John-st.,  New-York. 


W®®d®Me  MiiFseFf. 

CatalogMCB  of  Rla-ssis  iso’%t  Reatly. 

Address  A.  S.  E1JEI..E15, 

Bergen  Co.,  Ridgewood,  W.  -S. 


Wc  Hiive  ill  cour.se  of  Propagation 

235,#©©  C®MC®K®  ¥IMES, 

23,000  Dela-ware,  8,000  Hartford  Pkoufio 

5,000  Rogers’  Hybrids,  3,000  Diana, 

3,000  Iona,  2,000  Adirondao, 

2,000  Allen’s  Hybrid,  1,000  Israella, 

and  numerous  other  valuable  varieties,  both  old  and  ne-w 
We  thank  our  customers  for  tlie  liberal  patronage  tliey  have 
bestowed,  and  assure  lliem  and  all  intere.sted  in  vine  and 
grape  culture  that  no  care  or  expense  wilt  be  spared  the 
present  season  to  lu-ing  our  vines  to  tlie  Highest  Standard 
Our  Prices  will  merit  the  attention  of  Dealers  and 
Planters.  Responsible  Agents  are  wanted  in  every 
town  to  form  clubs,  or  to  spend  the  season  in  canvassing. 
Large  commission  will  be  given  to  sucli  as  can  furnisli  relia¬ 
ble  references ;  none  otliers  need  apply. 

Address  with  Stamp,  WM.  PERRY  &  SON, 

Bridgeport,  Conn. 


®iiig  Sing*  twrape  Yiiscs. 

Uela’ware,  Iona,  Israella,  Afiirondac,  Al¬ 
len’s  Hybrid,  Concord,  &:c.,  <&©. 

For  tlie  past  tivo  years  we  have  been  unable  to  fill  any 
orders  in  the  Spring,  but  having  this  year  enlarged  iny  Green- 
Houses,  my  stock  is  much  larger,  and  in  all  respects  of  bet¬ 
ter  quality  than  we  have  before  oflered. 

Vines  sold  by  me  are  warranted  true  to  name.  I’rices 
same  as  last  year.  Send  for  Price  List. 

As  the  partnership  of  J  F.  DELIOT  &  RYDER,  isdissolved, 
all  orders  should  be  sent  to  J.  F.  DELIOT, 

Sing  Sing,  N.  Y. 


Mew  ^trawtoerrie®* 


Great  Agriculturist.— I  have  made  extensive  pre¬ 
parations  to  supply  good,  strong  plants  of  this  variety  at 
|1  per  dozen  ;  $3  for  50 ;  $5  for  100. 


Greeu  Prolific.— A  very  large  and  promising  variety, 
$1  per  dozen ;  $4  per  100 ;  $20  per  1000.  Buffalo  Seed¬ 
ling,  very  large  and  productive.  Freiscli  Seedling.— 
The  largest  and  best  early  variety  grown.  Leniiiig’s 
"Wbitc,  a  variety  of  great  promise,  and  should  be  in  every 
collection  ;  plants  of  these  three  at  $1  per  dozen  ;  $3  per  100; 
or  $20  per  1000.  Russell’s  Prolific,  $1.50  per  100;  or  $10 
per  1000.  La  Negress.— Fruit  nearly  black.  Negro.- 
Fruit  large,  the  blackest  of  all.  Victory.— A  superb  va¬ 
riety,  fruit  very  large,  wonderfully  productive,  and  fine  fla¬ 
vored,  color  a  beautiful  blush.  Progress.— Fruit  ?f  the 
largest  size,  very  productive,  color  a  brilliant  scarlet.  These 
four  novelties  at  $1.50  per  dozen,  or  the  four  varieties,  one 
dozen  each,  $5.00. 

The  following  eight  varieties  are  Belgian  and  French 
Seedlings,  and  took  many  prizes  at  the  great  shows  of  1862 
and  1SG3.  Haquin,  Lucicla,  Perfecta,  Orb,  Ex¬ 
position  d’Claalons,  Erogmer®  Late  Pine,  La 
Delicieiise,  Lucas  and  Emma,  at  $lperrtozan:  or 
the  eiglit  varieties,  one  dozen  eacli,  $6.00. 


The  following  10  French  and  Belgian  varieties,  were  se¬ 
lected  in  lSG4,with  greatcare.  Atthe  great  exhibitions  these 
were  the  prize  berries.  Comtesse  a’Marn,  Caroline 
Superb,  Cristal  Palis,  Excellent,  Ferelinand, 
Helen  Samiii,  Paimee,  Monstrous  il’Robin, 
Nantis,  Kamiiiskii,  a  selection  at  $3  per  dozen,  or 
the  10  varieties,  one  dozen  each,  $20.00. 

Ida.— A  new  native  Seedling,  of  great  promise,  fi'ult  largn, 
plants  very  vigorous,  and  remarkably  productive,  $2  per 
dozen.  Monstrous  Hautbois.— A  remarkable  variety, 
from  Belgium,  fruit  large  and  wonderfully  productive,  plants 
$1  each,  or  C  lor  $4.  Also  the  three  Tnbune  prize  berries. 
Monitor,  Col.  Elswortli,  and  Brooklyn  Scar¬ 
let.  The  two  first  are  of  the  largest  size,  and  very  produc¬ 
tive.  The  last  took  the  prize  for  the  best  flavored  berry 
known  ;  plants  $1  per  dozen ;  $3  per  100 ;  or  $20  per  1000. 

No  orders  taken  for  less  than  one  dozen  of  any  variety. 
Commence  delivering  in  rotation  as  ordered,  the  1st  ol  Sept. 

Address  WM.  S.  CARPENTER,  156  P.eade-st,  Kew-York 


The  Mew  ®trawfoeiTie§. 

The  Great  Agriculturist  and  Great  Wisconsin,  $1  per  doz. ; 
he  Great  Bufialo,  French’s  Seedling,  Russell,  Rogers  Eliza, 
larguerite.  La  Constante,  Jociinda,  and  others,  50  cts.  per 
lozen  Many  fine  sorts  25  cts.  per  dozen.  Carelully  packed 
n  i^utta  perc'lia  silk,  and  forwarded  by  mail  to  any  address, 
iy  the  100  or  1000  very  low.  Priced  Descriptive  Catalogues 
low  ready  of  the  best  collections  in  the  country.  Agents 
vanted.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymouth,  Mass. 


A  large  Stoclc  of  tlie  tlsrce 
GREAT  MARKET  STRAWBERRY  PLANTS 
in  course  of  propagation,  for  sale.  Agriculturist,  at  $l 
per  hundred.  Russell’s  Prolific,  at  $1.20  per  hundred. 
Freucli’s  SeecUiug,  $1  per  hundred.  Also  other  pro¬ 
ductive  aud  good  kinds  at  80  cents  per  100.  Delivered  with 
dispatch  in  the  city  of  New  York  witliout  extra  charge.  Lib¬ 
eral  discount  on  large  orders.  Address  SAMUEL  HICKS, 
North  Hempstead,  Queens  Co.,  N,  Y. 


mo©mim§'t©ii  Wasrseryj 

Two  Hundred  and  forty  (240)  acres.  Splendid  stock.  Stand¬ 
ard  and  Dwarf.  Fifty  thousand  (50.000)  Peach,  including 
Hale’s  early;  Apricots,  Grapes,  Roses,  Osage  Orange,  Hardy 
Bulba,  Tulips,  Hyacinths,  Crocus,  all  at  wholesale  and  retail 
F.  K.  PHCENIX,  Bloomington,  IlUnols. 


262 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST. 


[Atrotrar, 


IONA  AND  ISRAELLA, 

Witli  a.11  otlier  -S'-alsia'ble  hardy  kinds,  in¬ 
cluding  large  stocks  Delaware  ami  Diana. 

The  Iona  Propagating  Establishment,  which  was  tlie  first 
ever  instituted  for  tiie  production  of  hardy  vines,  has  Iicreto- 
fore  been  very  largo— greatiy  surpassing  in  extent  and  apiiii- 
anees  any  otliers  of  the  kind  tiiat  have  sprung  up  in  imitatian 
of  it;  but  it  has  not  been  able  to  supply  the  demand  for 
plants.  The  past  year  the  stock  of  the  most  desirable  kinds 
was  all  ordered  in  the  early  part  of  the  season,  and  many 
applicants  ivere  greatiy  disappointed  by  not  being  able  to 
obtain  as  many  as  they  wished  of  the  most  desirable  plants. 

For  the  purpose  of  producing  the  excellent  new  varieties  of 
the  best  possible  quality  in  sufficient  number  to  satisfy  the  in¬ 
creasing  demand,  the  means  of  production  have  this  .season 
been  very  greatiy  enlarged,  and  no  improvement  has  been 
omitted  which  my  knowledge  and  experience  have  suggested 
that  will  tend  to  facilitate  the  propagation  of  a  greatly  in¬ 
creased  supply  of  plants  that  will  produce  the  best  results 
as  to  hardy  vigor  and  early  bearing  in  Garden  and  Vineyard, 
for  table  use  and  for  wine. 

The  character  of  the  Delaware  for  excellence  and  value  is 
now  so  well  established  that  all  good  judges  of  grapes  have 
accepted  it  as  a  standard  of  comparison,  for  which  it  is  most 
admirably  fitted. 

The  important  points  in  which  the  Delaware  is  surpassed 
by  the  new  seedlings  loiia  and  Israella,  and  which  r.anl£ 
them  as  the  best  grapes  in  cultivation,  are  also  well  ascer¬ 
tained  and  generally  admitted.  I  have  spared  no  care  or 
cost  this  season  to  obtain  a  stock  of  plants  that  will  in¬ 
crease  the  well-earned  reputation  of  these  kinds  as  well  as 
that  of  the  Iona  Establislunent. 

The  Vines  at  present  give  promise  of  surpassing  those  of 
any  former  season  in  healthful  vigor,  and  I  do  not  liesltate 
to  offer  them  under  the  assurance  of  unequalled  quality. 

It  is  of  great  importance  for  the  hardy  and  enduring  vigor 
of  Vines,  and  for  early  bearing  and  continued  productive¬ 
ness,  that  the  plants  should  not  only  be  propagated  in  tlie 
best  manner,  but  from  the  best  wood  from  mature  stocks.  In 
this  respect  as  well  as  in  other  essenti.al  points,  I  m,ay  claipi 
a  great  advantage  for  my  present  stock  of  lossa.  and  Isra- 
clla.  plants,  whicli  liave  been  produced  with  tlie  greatest 
care  from  wood  grown  for  that  special  purpose,  and  such  as 
no  other  can  command. 

I  am  happy  to  invite  special  attention  to  these  new  varieties 
(lana  and  Israella),  wliich  this  season  show  even  a  greater 
superiority  over  all  the  other  kinds  than  heretofore,  in  the 
certainty  and  abundance  of  their  produce. 

While  other  kinds  that  have  been  unduly  and  injudiciously 
praised  tlirough  ignorance  or  otherwise,  have  fallen  back  in 
reputation  toward  tlieir  proper  station,  these  have  advanced 
in  the  front  rank  which  they  had  already  firmly  attained,  and 
the  Iona  may  safely  be  said  to  have  no  competitor  in  value. 

There  is  mueli  of  importance  pertaining  to  vines  and  their 
management  that  is  better  and  more  clearly  learned  by  in¬ 
spection  than  by  the  fullest  account,  and  in  consequence,  I 
invite  all  wlio  are  interested  in  the  subject  to  call  at  Iona 
Island,  and  examine  both  the  young  plants  and  the  bearing 
vines.  Peekskill,  tlie  station  for  Iona,  is  less  tlian  one  hour 
and  three-quarters  from  New-Fork,  and  only  about  three 
hours  from  Albany,  and  not  less  tlian  twelve  trains  pass  each 
way  daily. 

My  own  boats  are  generally  .at  the  station  to  meet  passen¬ 
gers  by  the  morning  Express  trains  to  convey  them  to  the 
Island. 

In  addition  to  these,  Mr.  J.ames  TenEyck,  one  of  the  best  of 
boatmen,  has  established  a  regular  line  of  boats  for  the  con¬ 
veyance  of  passengers  to  and  from  the  Island,  meeting  all  of 
the  principal  trains  during  the  day.  He  Is  provided  for  the 
comfortable  conveyance  of  passengers  in  any  weatlier  at  es¬ 
tablished  charges  which  are  very  moderate. 

For  a  full  account  of  my  publications  on  the  subject,  see 
the  July  number  of  American  Agriculturist. 

They  are  named  and  sent  as  follows-. 

“  Oar  Native  Grapes  with  an  account  of  our  four 
best  kinds,”  with  Price  Lists,  constituting  a  pamphlet  of 
twenty-four  pages.  Sent  for  two-cent  stamp. 

Descriptive  Catalogue,  Ten  Cents. 

Illustrated  Catalogue,  !I5  Cents 

Manual  of  tli©  Vine,  Fifty  Cents. 

The  first  named  pamphlet  is  filled  with  such  matter  as  in¬ 
quirers  on  the  subject  wish  to  find  at  the  beginning  of 
their  investigations  preparatory  to  purchasing,  with  full  ta¬ 
bles  of  the  contents  of  the  others. 

Besides  these  and  of  much  importance  is  the  proposition 
for  the  formation  of  Clubs.  This  shows  the  best  and  cheap¬ 
est  method  of  obtaining  vines  and  is  tliat  by  which  my  im¬ 
mense  stocks  have  been  chiefly  sold  the  past  two  years,  with 
genertil  liigli  satisfaction.  These  propositions  are  worthy  of 
the  attention  of  dealers  and  all  others. 

Tlie  premiums  for  tlie  formation  of  Clubs  are  not  only 
very  liiieral,  hut  enable  persons  witliout  cost  of  money,  to 
obtain  vines  of  special  quality  that  cannot  be  procured  in 
any  oilier  way. 

Address  C,  \V.  GRANT,  lojja, 

near  Peekskill,  Westchester  Co.,  H.  Y. 

F.  S.— My  stock  of  transplanted  vines  two-years  old  Is 
worthy  of  special  and  early  attention 


UEIiAWAKE  ¥IMES. 
Pars® BIS  &  C®., 

oiler  for  the  autumn  trade, 

I^elaware  C3-r*ape  Vines^ 

at  tlie  following  low  prices : 

No.  1.  $30  00  per  100.— -$260  00  per  1000. 
$3,000  per  10,000. 

No.  3.  $30  00  per  100.— $150  00  per  1000. 
S1300  per  10,000. 

No.  3.  $13  00  per  100.— $100  00  per  1000. 

$750  per  10,000. 

These  vines  are  grown  from  single  eyes  of  well-matnred 
wood.— After  many  years’  experience  in  growing  vines,  we 
have  for  three  years  past  discarded  the  pot  culture,  because 
it  induces  a  cramped  condition  of  the  roots,  from  whicii  tliey 
with  dilliculty  recover. 

Our  vines  are  therefore  grown  in  broad  borders,  where 
having  perfect  freedom,  they  make  substantial  woody  roots, 
full  of  flbre  eyes. 

The  reports  returned  to  us  of  the  rapid  and  luxuriant 
growth  of  those  we  liave  furnished  in  past  years,  enables  us 
to  recommend  these  with  entire  confidence. 

For  three  years  our  stock  has  been  exhausted  in  the  au* 
tumn  and  subsequent  applicants  have  been  disappointed. 
Those  therefore  wlio  wish  them  should  order  early. 

a©MA  VINES, 

No.  1,  $3.00  each  ;  $18.00  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  $1.50  each  ;  $12.00  per  doz,;  $80  per  100. 

VINES, 

From  single  eyes,  one  year  old. 

$13  00  per  100  ;  $30  00  per  1000  ; 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of 

Atlirojidsi.c,  Creveling,  Allen’s  Ilykrid,  Ives’ 
Madeirsi,  Diana,  Israella,  Hartford  Prolific, 
Dydia,  Rebecca,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  and  the  other 
popular  sorts,  all  at  low  prices. 

We  commend  our  vines  to  dealers,  as  particul.arly  adapted 
to  their  needs,  and  have  so  arranged  the  rates  that  the  differ¬ 
ence  in  the  prices  of  different  quantities  will  afford  them  a 
good  profit. 

Address 

PAll§OW§  &  CO., 

Flii§!iliig-,  E.  I. 

PARSONS  &  CO.,  offer  Agriculturist  at  $1.50 
per  dozen ;  $5  per  100 ;  $25  per  1000.  Also  the  other  fine  sorts, 
for  list  of  which  address  at 

Plitsliiiig,  near  New  York. 

WAISM  AN»  FKUaT  in  a 

mild  and  healthful  climate.  Thirty  miles  south  of  PhiLa- 
delphia  by  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soli  is  rich  and  prodiicKue,  varying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wlieat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  liun- 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  liave  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-flve  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  ivith  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  the  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  lias  in¬ 
creased  five  thousand  people  within  the  past  three  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  ha  ve 
been  Introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  he  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward.  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  in 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  the  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  healthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  otlier  social  privileges,  in  the 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  the  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Asricultnral  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies- 


F  ®  R  S  A  f .  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

T  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 

miiriiSpN  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 

Kn  thp  coimties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 

on  the  line  of  the  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad  mid- 
and  Philadelphia,  at  from  $10  to  $35 
pei  aci  e.  In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  fam 
are  valuable  for  growing  cranherri^.  sweet 
Stapes,  tobacco  and  hops.  All 
Clops  ripen  ten  days  earlier  than  on  Long  Island 
roid”^t“'Ano™rf^ii  d®H^ered  at  any  point  on  tlie  raih 
®fty  cents  per  ton,  and  fertil- 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  application.  Tlie 

blp^fnrTmSw^^  Pih®  timber,  suita- 

lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 

nh3  ciiuV vn^?nn  IJ'®  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 

ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $5  per  100.  Cord  wood 
pLiV"?  toad  station.  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
e?ed  Sr  I**®’?,®®*  POtters’ chay  yet  discov- 

*’'®„,'tianufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
?i  p  i?rlfr  fl®  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 

location  is  very  healtliy  and 
V  atei  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailin»-  streams 
ami  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man- 
mnahl'of  Zrtgafe.  Putchase  money  may 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHETWOOD,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

Frankliii-st.,  New- York 
and  N.  P.  lODD,  ag’t  Shamong,  Burlington  Co., 

New  Jersej'. 

RAW  BONE 

SUPEMHOSPMTE  OF  LIME. 

BAUGH  &  SONS,, 

MANUFACTURERS  AND  PROPRIETORS, 

Store  BTo.  m  Soiitfe  Delaware.  Avenue, 
PHILADELPHIA. 

REDUCTIOW  IN  PRICE  ! 

After  this  date,  June  12th,  the  price  of  Bansli’s  Raw 
Eoiie  Pliospkate  will  be  reduced  to  $60  pS  2000  lbs  (3 
preT  ’'"'1  barrels  and  del’iv- 

ered  flee  ol  porterage  to  any  wharf  or  depot  in  tliis  city. 

SEND  IN  THE  ORDERS  EARLY  I 

ftrfieip^mT-  fUo  point  to  a  very  heavy  trade  in  our 

^fAr  mnS-  season,  and  although  we  have  immense  fa- 
SL  a  barge  demand  with  a  prompt  supply. 

Farmers  and  Dealers  to  give  ul 
their  ordei-s  as  early  as  possible. 

BAUGH’S  RAW-BONE  PHOSPHATE 

Has  now  been  before  the  Agricultural  Community  for  manv 
years  under  ONE  NAME  anil  ONE  PKOPRlETORSHIRanl 
needs  no  lurtlier  commendation  tlian  that  accorded  to  It 

and  aiscrimiiiStinl  Seri'* 

Manufactured  only  by 

BAUGH  &  SOWS, 

No.  20  South  Delaware  Avenue, 

Philadelphia. 

recommend  Farmers'  -to  purchase  of  their 
nearest  Agricultural  Dealer. 


FERTIMZERg  1 1 

Lister’s  Pure  Ground  Bone. 
Piir©  PcrBiviaii 
K  F.  COE’S  SUPERPHOSPHATE  OF  LIME, 

Bruce’s  CoiiceDtratesl  Fertiliizers 

I®laster*5  3?OTs.d.rette5  etc. 

For  sale  in  quantities  to  suit  purchasers.  Skhd  m  topb 
Okdeks  eaely. 

R.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

1S9  &  191  Water-st.,  New-York. 


BUCKWHEAT,  WHEAT,  KYE,  TUR¬ 
NIPS,  &c.,  is 

Bruce’s  Concentrated  llansire. 

So  say  those  who  have  tested  It. 

Send  for  Circular. 

QRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO.,  Sole  Agents, 

60  Courtlandtst.,  New  York. 

Ammonififed  Pacific  ©teaii®. 

A  veal  guano,  containing  fl'om  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phosphate  of  Lime ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  cliem- 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
that  it  can  not  evapoixate,  making  it  equal,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  tlie  Trade. 

Pamplilets  ivitli  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Sfass, 
State  Assayer.and  Dr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  tostiinoniala 
n-om.  scientific  agriculturists,  showing  its  value,  can  ha 
obtained  ttom  J.  O.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  jlgenta 

131  Pearl-st,  New-York 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  ACRIGULTURIST. 


Q63 


68  ' 


Peas’l»St,,  'New-Yorfe. 

Pro«Siice  Cominissioii  Mcrclsaists, 


FOR  THE  SALE  OFJ 


r»  >r 


g  w 

H  m 


>  Hi  O 

s  a 

Send  for  'Weekly  Price  Cckeent,  Ifarking  Plate  and 
Circular  witli  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

Country  Consignments  receive  special  attention. 
KEFEKENCES : 

Beni.  Loder,  Est)..  E".  Y. 

Ex-Pres’t.  Ph  ie  li.  K. 

Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Chicago,  Ill, 

Hon.  .1.  K.  Porter, 


Albany,  N.  Y. 


Wm.  S.  Thorn,  Esq.,  N.  T. 

Prest,  Na'l  Fire  Ins.  Co. 
Lane,  Son  &  Co.,  N.  T, 
Truman,  Stratton  &  Co., 
Orange.  N.  Y. 

Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O. 


Agents  wanted. — I  ■wish  Agents  in  every 
Town  and  County  to  sell  iny  new  engraving  of 

The  Child.  IPi-ayei:*, 

OR 

“  Now  I  lay  me  tJowii  to  §Ieep,” 

advertised  in  tliis  paper  July  1st. 

Old  Agents  say  they  never  sold  anything  that  sold  so 
easily.  Exclusive  control  of  territory  given. 

P'or  partlcnlars  address 

W.  J.  HOLLAND,  Publisher, 

Sprlugfleld,  Mass. 


S,  B.  COlOfEE, 

Commissi®!!  I3eale!'? 


260,  261  &  262  West  Washington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
otlier  P’arm  Produce. 

Defers  to  tlie  Editor  of  the  American  Agrlcultnrist. 


Ageiiey. 

The  undersigned  will  Purcliase  to  Order,  on  favorable 
terms,  and  at  a  moderate  commission,  any  articles  of  neces¬ 
sity  or  luxury,  of  smal!  or  large  value,  sucli  as  Supplies  for 
Families,  Goods  for  Merchants,  Farmers,  Mechanics,  &c. 
Monev  sent  by  mail  or  otherwise,  will  he  immediately  ac¬ 
knowledged,  and  goods  promptly  forwarded  as  directed. 
Letters  of  Inquiry  will  receive  immediate  attention. 

S.  CONOVER,  Jr.,  160  Fulton-st.,  New- York. 
Eefers  by  permission  to  Opposite  St.  Paul’s  Church. 
Wra.  E.  Dodge,  Jr.,  Esq.;  A.  D.  Randolph,  Esq. 


Every  Child  on  the  Continent  should  have  it  1 

The  Best  Children’s  Paper  in  America, 


A  First-Class  Monthly  Paper,  of  16 
Pages,  for  KOVS  and  GUiLb. 

$1.00  a  Year  in  advance. 

A  Beautiful  Premium  to  every  eubscriber, 
Bpeoimeu  Copy  Boot  tor  lea  Coats. 

Address, 

ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 
Publisher,  Chicago,  III. 


and  ^aipcB’ior  Collectloii 
of  CMlee§. 

THE  EXCELSIOR  GLEE  BOOK. 

A  Collection  of  the  Best  Glees,  Choruses  and  Operatic 
Gems.  For  Mixed  Voices,  comprising  the  Secular  portion 
of  tlie  popular  “Chorus  Wreath."  Every  piece  a  standard 
composition.  Neatly  and  durably  bound  in  hoards.  Price 
only  $i.  Sent  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  price.  OLIVER  DIT- 
SON  &  CO.,  Publisliers,  277  Washmgton-st.,  Boston, 


The  brilliant  august  no.  of  demo- 

P.EST'S  MONTHLY  MAGAZINE,  with  splendid  en¬ 
gravings,  Illustrated  Poems,  new  and  popular  music,  etc., 
etc.,  etc.  Now  Koiidy.  Single  copies  25  cts.,  mailed  free  on 
receipt  of  the  price.  Yearly  $3.  with  a  v,al liable  Premium. 
Address  AV. 'JENNINGS  DE.MOKEST. 

No.  89  15ockman-st.,  N.  Y. 


J.  C,  HANEY  &  CO.,  still  offer  to  send  their  popular 
Magazine,  MEItKYMAN’S  MOXTHi.Y,  from  July  to  Decem¬ 
ber  (six  montiis),  for  tlie  low  price  of  lio  cents.  See  adver¬ 
tisement  last  month,  page  231.  Very  liberal  club  rates  offered. 


FiKbting  against 
Tfrong,  and  for  tho 
Q»od,  the  Tru* ,  and 
the  BcautifuL 


Westclaesfea’  CoBBaaty  FarEsaiiag’ 

—TWO  DAYS  AMONG  THK  FAUMEUS  OF  WESTCIIES- 
TEK  AND  PUTNAM  COUNTIES— A  Lon’Q  Hidk  and  Ex¬ 
amination  OF  Farms— What  I  Saw,  Heard  and  Learned. 
THENEW-YOIiK  TUIIUINK  is  publisliinjr  a  series  of  arti¬ 
cles  on  Agriculture.  THE  SEMI-WEEKLY  TRIBUNE  of 
FRIDAY,  July  M,  contains  article  No.l,  on  Westchester  and 
Putnam  Counties,  wherein  ineution  is  made  of  Mr.  Carpen¬ 
ter's  Nurser3%  Mr.  Cock’s  Farm,  Dr.  Ilexaincr’s  Nursery  and 
Barn,  and  tlie  Farm  of  Stcplien  Wood. 

The  Semi- Weekly  Tribune  of  Tuesday,  July  IS,  contains 
Article  No.  11,  on  the  same  subject,  In  wliich  are  descriptions 


^arm,  owned  by  Mr.  G.  15.  Butler,  and  Benjamin  F.  Camp’s 
Farm,  near  Somers  village. 

The  Tribune  contains  lull  reports  of  the  meetings  of  the 
Farmers’  Club  of  American  Institute,  Fruit  Growers  Asso¬ 
ciation,  Produce,  Cattle  and  General  Markets,  &c.,  &c.,  spec¬ 
ially  reported  for  The  N.  Y.  Tribune. 


TERMS. 

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do  2  copies,  do  do  .  7  00 

do  5  copies,  or  over,  for  each  copy .  8  00 

Persons  remitting  for  10  copies,  $30,  will  receive  an  extra 
copy  for  6  months. 

Persons  remitting  for  15  copies,  $45,  will  receive  an  extra 
copy  one  year. 


THE  NEW -YORK  WEEKLY  TRIBUNE 

Is  printed  on  a  large  double-medium  sheet,  making  eight 
pages  of  six  columns  each  and  containing  the  choicest  mat¬ 
ter  of  the  Daily  issue,  including  a  News  Summary,  Domestic 
and  Foreign;  Legislative  and  Congressional  matters :  War 
News;  Stock,  Financial,  Cattle,  Horse,  Dry  Goods  and  Gen¬ 
eral  Market  Reports,  Report  of  the  American  Institute, 
Farmers’  Club,  &c.,  &c. 


TERMS. 

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do  Chibs  of  live .  9  00 

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1'HE  TRIBUNE,  New-Tork. 


MEW  MUSIC  BOOKS. 


MASON  BROTHERS,  ,'>06  Broadway,  Nexv- 
Ir'orlc,  Imve  in  press  and  will  issue  about  1st  September  a 
New  Collection  ol  Church  Music,  for  Choirs,  Conventions 
and  Singing  Schools,  by  SOLox  WiLDEi!  and  Fredekio  S. 
Daveni'Okt.  entitled 

THE  PRAISE  OF  ZION. 

The  authors  have  had  unusual  facilities  in  the  preparation  of 
this  their  tlrst  book,  liaving  had  at  their  disposal  many  neYV 
compositions  by  the  most  popular  and  distinguished  com¬ 
posers.  foreign  as  well  as  American,  The  publi-shers  call  at¬ 
tention  to  tills  new  book  wiiii  much  coiitidence,  because  of 
the  variety  and  freshness  of  its  contents,  and  their  general 
adaptation  to  the  wants  of  singers. 

In  order  to  facilitate  its  earlv  examination  bv  teachers  and 
leaders  of  choirs,  a  single  advance  copy  of  ^I’he  P7'aise  of 
Zion  will  be  sent  post-paid,  earlv  in  August,  to  any  such  for¬ 
warding  us  75  cents,  or  about  half  the  price  of  the  book. 

RECENTLY  PUBLISHED. 

THE  SON(}  GAHDEN.  Part  First,  by  Dr.  Lowell  Mason. 
A  School  Music-Book  for  younger  scholars,  or  beginners, 
containing  first  steps  in  the  Eleiiients  of  Musical  Notation, 
with  a  great  variety  of  new  school  music.  Price  50  cents. 

THE  SONG  GARDEN,  Part  Second,  by  Dr.  Lowell  Mason 
Containing  the  Elements  of  Musical  Notation,  with  nearly 
Four  Hundred  Songs,  Glees,  Catches,  liounds,  and  pleasing 
Exercises;  scarcely  any  of  wliiidi  have  ever  before  been  pub- 
Mslied  in  this  country.  These  have  been  largely  culled  l^rom 
the  freshest  new  music  of  Germany  and  France,  with  many 
new  compositions.  Tlie  Yvords  as  well  as  music  are  mostly 
new.  Price  80  cents. 

Tliese  new  books  prove  of  extraordinary  interest.  Already 
introduced  into  the  schools  of  some  of  our  largest  cities,  the 
music  teachers  speak  in  terms  of  the  strongest  commenda¬ 
tion  respecting  them.  The  .songs  are  new,  fresh,  and  adapted 
to  young  persons,  and  have  intrinsic  merit  which  makes  them 
wear  well, 

THE  KP.}Y  NOTIil;  A  new  collection  of  Church  Music.  By 
Wm.  15.  Bradbury.  This  is  the  latest  collection  of  Church 
Music  by  the  very  popular  author  of  “The  J  ubilee.”  Price  $1.50 


AMEISICAW 

HORTICULTURAL  RliGISTER. 

The  undersigned  having  been  engaged  to  prepare  and  pub¬ 
lish  a  Catalogue  of  American  Nurserymen,  Horticultural 
Dealers  and  Agents  and  Fruit  Growers,  desires  to  procure— 

I.  Of  Nurserymen  througliout  the  United  States— the 
Name,  P.  O.,  County,  State,  Acres  in  Nurserv,  Sale  Stock  for 
I863-G,  viz. ;  Number  of  Apple,  Pear,  I’eacii,  Cherry,  Plum, 
Apricot,  Nectarine  and  Quince  Trees ;  Grape  Vines,  Currant, 
Gooseberry,  Haspberry,  Blackberry  and  Strawberry  Plants  • 
Stocks  ;  Apple,  Cherry,  Pear  and  Quince ;  Deciduous  Trees, 
Evergreen  Trees;  Deciduous  Slirubs.  Evergreen  Shrubs 
Vinos,  and  Creepers,  Hoses,  Perennial  Flowers. 

II.  Of  Dealers  and  Agents— Name,  P.  O..  County,  State- 
Names  of  Nurserymen  for  wliom  acting;  extent  of  ferritory 
furnished  or  canvassed,  (Nurserymen  are  requested  to  fur¬ 
nish  tliis  information  of  all  their  axilhorlzed  Agents.)  — -r"! 

III.  Of  Fruit  Growers— Name,  P.  O..  Countv,  State.  Acres 
planted.  Number  of  Trees,  Vines  and  Buslies  of  Apple,  Pear, 
Peach.  Cherry,  Plum,  Apricot,  Nectarine.  CJuince,  Grape,  Cur¬ 
rant,  Gooseberry,  Blackberry,  Haspberry  and  Strawberry. 

IV.  Of  Fruit  Dealers— Name,  P.  O.,  County,  State. 

Persons  sending  the  above  information,  fwith  a  three  cent 

stamp  for  return  postage,)  previous  to  August  loth,  will  re¬ 
ceive  a  copy  of  tlie  Register  free  of  cliarge'. 

Early,  prompt  and  correct  information  is  urged,  and  will 
make  this  a  valnablo  book  of  reference  to  buyer  and  seller 

,  Secretary  Illinois  State  Horticultural  So- 

clet3’.  Allon,  Illinois. 


BOOKS  POK  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 


[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  tlie  prices  named,  or  they  will  he 
forwarded  by  mall,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  Sep-ember  1st.] 

Alien’s  (L.  F.)  liural  Architecture . j  i  50 

Allen’s  (H.  L.)  American  Farm  Book .  1  50 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier .  30 

American  Hose  Ciilturist .  30 

American  'Weeds  and  useful  Plants .  l  715 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holl}-) .  qq 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden .  '  j ’,p 

Beecher’s  (Henry  'Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming.',  1  Ij 

Bement’s  Poulterer’s  Companion .  2  JO 

Bement’s  Hahhit  Fancier . .  .  .  "  30 

Blake's  Fanner’s  Encyclopedia . .  1  .30 

Boiissingault’s  liural  Economy .  1  po 

Brldgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . 75 

Bridgeman’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant . 2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor . 75 

Bridgeman’s  Florist’s  Guide . 75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  (Jerman) . .  50 

Breok’s  Book  of  Flowers .  1  50 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures . .  1  ,50 

Buist’s  Flower  garden  Directory .  1  50 

Buist’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener .  1  00 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America .  5  OO 

Carpenters  and  Joiners'  Hand  Book..  (Holly) .  60 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower’.s  Guide .  75 

Cohbett’s  American  Gardener .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  'VV.)  American  l-'ruit  Book .  60 

Cole’s  Veterinarian .  75 

Colman’s  Agriculture .  5  00 

Copeland’s  Country  Life .  4  50 

Cottage- Bee-Keeper . 73 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  (Turner) . . . [  1  50 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  50 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor .  1  50 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual . 125 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) .  30 

Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening  (new  Edition) .  6  50 

Downing’s  Cottage  Hesiilences .  2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America .  3  00 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry . . . . . ; . .  75 

Elliott’s  'Western  Emit  Grower’s  Guide .  1  ,50 

Employment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny .  1  50 

Fessen'den’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener .  1  50 

Flax  Culture . 50 

French’s  Farm  Drainage .  1  50 

Field’s  (Tliomas  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  25 

Fish  Culture .  1  25 

Flint  (Charles  L.)  on  Grasses .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milch  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming . . .  2  00 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist .  20 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding . .  1  25 

Graj’’s  Manual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol .  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow . . .  1  25 

Guenon  on  Milch  Cows .  75 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery .  1  25 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  &c .  .5  oO 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain .  3  fO 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates...  4.50 

Herbert’s  Hiiils  to  Ilorsekeepers .  )  75 

Hints  to  Kiflemen,  by  Cleveland .  1  50 

Holly’s  Country  Seats .  4  50 

Hop  Culture .  40 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Yhcre  to  Find  One .  1  75 

Insect  Enemies  of  Fruit  Trees,  (Trimble) .  8  00 

Jaques’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees .  60 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,  &c .  1  50 

Jobnston’s  Agricultural  Cliemistry . .  1  75 

Johnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Cliemistry .  1  25 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

Laiigstrotli  on  tlie  Honey  Bee  .  2  00 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden .  2  00 

Leiichar’s  How  to  Build  Hot-houses .  I  50 

Liebig’s  Familiar  I.etters  on  Cliemistry .  50 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture .  1  25 

Liebig’s  Natural  Laws  of  Husbandry .  1  50 

Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  !Iorgan  Horses  .  1  50 

Manual  of  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint.  1  00 

yiavliew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Doctor  .  s  50 

5iavhow’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management .  . .  s  50 

McMalion’s  American  Gardener .  2  50 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot .  75 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  75 

My  Farm  of  Edgewooil .  2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Itecord .  1  50 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener _ (Pardee) .  I  50 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture .  .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee .  1  25 

Onion  Culture  . .  20 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  60c. . . . (paper)  SO 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Hose .  1  50 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves .  1  50 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer .  60 

Quinby’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping .  1  75 

Kabbit  Fancier .  30 

Kandall’s  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  50 

Handall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry . 1^00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden .  3  00 

Kichardson  on  tlie  Dog .  SO 

Ilivers’  Orchard  Houses .  50 

Rural  Aff'airs _ (bound) _ SVols — each .  1  50 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library.. set  of  3  Vols.  .morocco .  9  50 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols.  .cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book . 75 

Sliepherd’s  own  Book .  2  25 

Skillful  Housewife  .  75 

Smitli’s  Landscape  G.ardcning .  1  50 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Children .  1  50 

Stewart’s  (,Iohnj  Stable  Book .  1  .50 

Templeton’s  Mechanic’s  Pocket  Companion .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough .  150 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture - -  .  2  50 

Tliomas’ Fruit  Culturist.. .  1  50 

Thompson’s  Food  of  Animals .  1  00 

Tobacco  Culture .  'S 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual .  1  50 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Affairs .  30 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages .  3  00 

Villas  and  Farm  Cottages,  (CleavE.i;.:'  and  Backus)...  3  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture.. .  1  50 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  1  50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . .  1  00 

Watson’s  American  Home  Garden  .  2  00 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making).  . .  1  50 

Wheat  Plant  (.John  Klippart’s) .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Graperies . .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  tlie  Horse .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Martin  on  Cattle .  1  50 

Youatt  on  the  Hog .  1  00 

Youstt  on  Sheep .  1  00 

Youmans’  Household  Science .  2  00 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry . . .  2  08 


364r 


AMERICAN  AG RTC r  I.TURIST. 


THE  CASKET’S  ©BJECTR. 


Ist.  To  authentically  record  the  gallant  deeds  in  battie  of 
the  Army  and  Navy. 

2d.  To  record  tlie  thousands  of  exciting  and  truthful  ad¬ 
ventures  of  scouts,  spies  and  detached  service  men  wliicli 
have  occurred  during  the  War. 

Sd.  To  keep  up  communication  between  old  comrades 
who  have  become  separated  by  returning  iiome. 

4th.  To  PROMOTE  TO  THE  tJT.nOST  EXTENT,  THE  PERSON¬ 
AL  AND  GENERAL  INTERESTS  OP  ALL  WHO  n.VTE  SERVED  IN 
THE  Army  and  Navt. 

In  The  Casket  the  private  soldier  and  sailor  and  subaltern 
officers  will  receive  tiie  full  credit  and  lionor  to  wliich  tliey 
are  justly  entitled  for  the  parts  they  liave  taken  in  the  war. 

Without  some  such  living  historical  record,  the  deeds  of 
the  great  mass  of  tlie  Army  and  Navy  will  in  a  very  sliort 
time  be  entirely  forgotten,  as  they  have  been  in  otlier  armies 
and  countries. 

Suck  a  work  as  Tlie  Casket  will  in  tlie  future  he  far  more 
gratifying  to  our  descendants  tliau  the  grandest  marble 
monuments  we  can  raise.  It  will  be  a  living  monument  in 
every  household. 

Its  contents,  aside  from  their  truthfulness  are  also  more 
thrilling,  and  brilliant,  and  touching  tlian  tlie  most  fervid 
and  elaborate  romance  or  fiction  tliat  was  ever  conceived. 

The  name,  company,  regiment,  ship,  &c.,  of  every  soldier 
or  sailor  wlio  lias  during  the  war  performed  any  brave  deed, 
are  recorded  in  The  Casket  together  with  a  full  detail  of  the 
deed  itself. 

Officers,  soldiers,  sailors,  and  their  friends  and  relations 
who  may  know  of  any  such  deeds,  or  incidents  of  any  sort, 
appropriate  for  Tlie  Casket,  are  requested  to  forward  ac¬ 
counts  of  them  to  us  with  names  and  particulars  for  publica¬ 
tion  in  The  Caskdt. 

A  part  of  each  number  of  The  Casket  is  devoted,  free  of 
charge,  to  Soldiers’  and  Sailors’  advertisements,  and  those  of 
their  friends  and  relatives  wlio,  by  tlie  war.  have  been  sepa¬ 
rated  and  are  missing.  Tins  is  a  special  feature  of  The  Cas¬ 
ket  and  should  alone  induce  you  to  subscribe.  • 

In  short  it  is  the  object  of  The  Casket  to  benefit,  in  every 
conceivable  way,  tlie  interests  of  all  those  wlio  liave  been, 
or  who  are,  in  tlie  service,  and  also  tlieir  families.  And  in 
return  we  ask  every  Soldier  and  Sailor,  and  every  Soldier’s 
family  and  Sailor’s  faniil)-,  and  every  friend  of  tlie  cause  to 
aid  it  by  taking  Tlie  Casket. 

If  you  can  not  .afford  to  take  it  for  one  year  ($2)  take  it  for 
six  months  ($1).  It  w.as  started  in  January,  1865,  and  as  no 
Incident  will  be  repeated,  you  stiould  start  with  the  begin¬ 
ning,  so  as  to  liave  it  complete.  Back  numbers  always  on  hand. 


The  July  number  contains  a  Thrilling  account  of  a  Castle 
riiuiider  Prisoner  wlio,  after  escaping,  was 


Enn  Down  by  the  Ferocious  Bloodhoand  Hero !” 

Together  with  a  correct  likeness  of  this  fearful  brute,  wlio 
is  of  tlie  liussian  breed,  measures  between  seven  and  eight 
feet  long,  stands  nearly  four  feet  high,  and  weighs  nearly 
two  hundred  pounds !  Tills  monstrous  dog  killed  two  large 
bears  on  Belle  Isle  in  single  combat,  using  his  immense 
teeth  and  claws  witli  terrible  efl'ect.  He  was  kept  at 
Castle  Thunder,  Richmond,  to  prevent  the  escape  of  prison¬ 
ers  and  was  so  carefully  trained  by  ids  brutal  masters,  that 
even  after  he  was  captured  and  fed  by  the  Union  Soldiers, 
he  endeavored  continually  to  tear  them  to  pieces. 


A  Splendid 
A  Splendid 
A  Splendid 
A  Splendid 
A  Splendid 


Engraving, 

Engraving, 

Engraving, 

Engraving, 

Engraving, 


The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 


Son  op 
Son  of 
Son  op 
Son  of 
Son  of 

Major  Gener.al  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
JI.AJOR  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  Gener.al  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 


Sergeant  Willie  Sherman,  (or  rather  Wil'i.am  Tecumseh 
Sherman,  Jr„)  was  the  son  of  Major  General  Slierman,  the 
hero  ot  tlie  Georgia  Campaign.  Named  aftei  ids  fatlier,  and 
inheriting  all  the  latter’s  noble  qualities,  Willie,  though  so 
youthful,  evinced  a  maturity  of  intellect  beyond  that  of 
those  double  his  age,  which,  when  he  died,  was  but  9  years 
and  3  months.  Wliile  with  his  fatheron  the  Big  Black,  below 
Vicksburg,  Willie  rode  constantly  at  tlie  General's  side,  and 
fell  a  victim  to  exposure  to  the  sun  and  deadly  climate.  In 
writing  of  her  darling  boy,  Mrs.  Sherman  forcibly  and  ten¬ 
derly  describes  the  love  of  herself  and  husband  in  the  words; 
“His  death  has  cast  a  pall  over  the  earth,  which  to  our  hearts 
will  never  be  lifted.” 

The  First  Battalion.  Tldrteenth  Regulars,  formerly  com¬ 
manded  by  General  Sherman,  liad  all  conceived  such  an 
affection  for  the  noble  boy  that  they  adopted  him  as  “Ser¬ 
geant,”  and  upon  liis  death  tiiey  erected  one  of  the  most 
beautiful  monuments  over  the  little  grave  in  which  he  now 
sleeps  in  eternal  slumber.  Tlie  whole  design,  which  w'as  con¬ 
ceived  by  Captain  Lamotte,  is  extremely  chaste ;  the  drums, 
surmounted  and  draped  by  the  flags,  being  peculiarly 
appropriate. 

We  have  had  a  special,  correct,  and  fine  Engeav- 
INO  MADE  OP  THIS  Monument,  w'nicn  is  now  ready  in 

THE  SEPTE.MBER  NUMBER  OF  THE  CaSKFIT. 

In  the  same  number  we  liave  also  a  beautiful  engraving, 
allegorical  ol  tlie  death  of  General  Sherman’s  youngest 
child,  Charles  C.  Slierman,  wlio  died,  it  will  be  recollected, 
just  as  the  General  liad  reached  tlie  ocean  tlirough  Georgia 
and  South  Carolina,  and  wliom  lie  had  never  seen. 

Do  not  fail  to  send  for  a  copy  of  Tlie  Soldier’s  Casket,  con¬ 
taining  this  beautiful  tribute  to  the  child  of  General  Sherman, 
whom  every  Soldier  loves  and  respects. 

Specimen  Copies  (post-paid)  to  any  Address  for  !35  cts. 


OW  TIIE  CASKET. 

Before  calling  the  attention  of  the  readers  of  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  to  our  terms,  we  wish  to  say  that  the  following  ex¬ 
tracts  represent  the  opinion  entertained  universally  by  the 
Tress  throughout  the  whole  country,  of  The  Casket. 

“  It  is  a  publication  destined  to  become  very  popular  with 
soldiers’  families,  on  account  of  its  thrilling  interest  to  tliem. 
Its  pages  are  open  to  contributors  giving  narrations  of  the 
heroic  deeds  of  our  brave  soldiers  in  battles,  perilous  adven¬ 
tures,  &c.  It  contains  many  Incidents,  anecdotes,  &c„ 
tv'hicli  will,  of  necessity,  be  omitted  in  general  history.”— 
Union  Clarion,  Princeton,  Ind. 

“We  long  ago  quit  puffing  the  Magazine  trash  of  the  coun¬ 
try.  but  after  examining  the  “  Casket,”  we  find  it  a  work 
worthy  of  patronage.  It  is  full  of  interesting  incidents  of 
war,  and  heroic  adventures  of  regiments  and  individual  sol¬ 
diers,  some  of  wliom  we  are  personally  acquainted  with. 
We  say  that  it  is  wortliy  of  patronage,  and  will  act  as  agent 
for  tliose  who  desire  to  subscribe  for  it.  We  have  not  space 
for  an  extended  notice,  but  will  gladly  sliow  the  present 
number  as  a  specimen  of  the  work.”— Argns,  Taola,  Kansas. 

“We  have  just  received  a  beautifully  printed  Magazine, 
with  tlie  above  title.  It  is  intended  as  a  friend  and  comfort¬ 
er  to  soldier’s  widows,  motliers,  fathers,  brotliers  and  sisters, 
and  is  of  great  value  to  any  one  having  friends  in  the  army.” 
—Gazette,  Kalamazoo,  Michigan. 

“It  will  be  a  record,  as  complete  as  time,  labor  and  money 
can  make  it,  of  all  the  important  events  of  tlie  war,  more 
especially  of  tlie  battle  field.  Also,  as  far  as  possible,  a 
record  of  all  deatlis  on  the  field  of  battle  or  in  hospital ;  and 
accounts  of  heroic  deeds  of  our  brave  men.  It  will  also  con¬ 
tain  a  department — which  we  consider  its  leading  feature— 
of  Questions  and  Answers ;  not  a  la  Bonner’s  Ledger,  but  ol 
infinitely  more  importance  to  those  who  liave  had  friends  in 
the  service.  All  sucli,  on  applicacion,  wlio  wish  to  know 
the  whereabouts  or  fate  of  a  friend,  can  obtain  the  desired 
Information  tlirougli  tlie  Casket,  if  it  can  possibly  be  had. 
It  also  contains  mucli  clioice  reading  in  the  way  of  historical 
legends,  poetry,  &c.  The  copy  now  before  us  contains  a 
beautiful  frontispiece,  which  is  alone  worth  the  price  of  tlie 
book.  But  we  can  not  tell  lialf  its  worth,  csiiecialiy  to  those 
who  have  friends’‘in  the  army;  to'such  its  vaiue  can  not  be 
reckoned  in  dollars  and  cents.”— Sentinel,  Pontiac,  Illinois. 

“A  prominent  feature  in  tins  work  is.it  is  devoted  not 
only  to  the  officers,  but  to  the  private  soldiers.  It  is  national 
in  its  character,  and  every  family  in  the  land  iiliat  has  sent  a 
fatlier,  son  or  brotlier  to  the  field  should  at  once  send  for  a 
copy  of  the  “  Casket.”  The  number  before  us  contains  an 
article  on  the  “  Gallant  conduct  of  the  3d  loa-a  Vol’s.  at  tlie 
battle  of  Sliiloh.”  Almost  every  family  in  the  Upper  Cedar 
Valley  is  deeply  interested  in  this  article.”— Mitchel  County 
Press,  Iowa. 

“It  is  made  up  of  stories  and  reminiscences  of  the  camp, 
field  and  march,  all  of  which  are  replete  with  interest.— Tlie 
subscription  price  is  two  dollars  per  year,  or  one  dollar  for 
six  months,  wliich  is  very  cheap  indeed  for  tlie  amount  ot 
reading  furnislied.”- Daily  Era,  New  York  City. 

“  A  beautiful  periodical,  which  is  published  in  the  interest 
of  the  brave  men  who  have  been  figliting  the  battles  of  our 
country  on  land  and  sea.  The  Magazine  gives  evidence  in 
all  its  parts  of  ability  and  good  taste,  and  we  are  sure  it  must 
become  a  welcome  visitor  in  numerous  households  in  our 
land.”— MTiig,  Troy,  K.  T. 


OUR  TERMS  ALWAYS  IN  ADVANCE. 

As  the  cost  of  publishing  such  a  work  is  increased  enor¬ 
mously  beyond  what  it  used  to  be,  we  are  compelled  to  do 
one  ol  two  tilings :— 1st,  raise  the  price  of  single  subscription ; 
or,  2d,  abolish  ail  club  rates.  We  have  chosen  the  second, 
as  not  only  most  acceptable,  but  also  tlie  fairest  to  all ;  and, 
tlierefore,  our  uniform  rates  of  subscription  will  be 

S2.00  PER  YE.\R  !  $1.00  for  SIX  MONTHS  ! 

Not  to  be  behind  other  nubllshers  in  liberality  of  induce¬ 
ment,  iiowever,  we  have  resolved  to  distribute  among  those 
raising  clubs  for  The  Casket  some  of  the  most  splendid  pre¬ 
miums  ever  offered.  The  raisers  of  the  Three  Largest  Clubs 
will  receive 

EACH  ONE  THOUSAND  DOLLARS  I 

while  many  small  clubs  will  receive  our  lower  premiums. 
Tlie  distribution  of  the  Premiums  will  be  made 

ON  JANUARY  FIRST,  1860, 

the  full  list  of  names  of  successful  parties,  together  with  the 
size  of  their  clubs,  being  then  promptly  publlslied. 


Every  number  of  Tlie  Casket  is  elegantly  illustrated  witli 
The  Finest  Engravings;  and  in  addition,  at  short  inter¬ 
vals,  with  Superbly  Executed  Cuts  in  the  Richest 
Colors. 

To  give  it  also  a  world-wide  celebrity,  we  shall  send  copies 
to  American  Consuls  abroad,  to  all  libraries  of  note  in  Eu¬ 
rope,  and  to  European  papers.  Wlierever  the  American  flag 
floats,  there  shall  The  Casket  be  sent. 

Tlie  Casket  and  National  I>cbt. 

The  Now  York  Herald  has  proposed  a  plan  for  paying  the 
National  Debt.  The  idea  Is  magnificent  and  patriotic,  but 
as  no  money  Is  to  be  paid  down  until  the  whole  amount  of 
the  debt  Is  subscribed  for,  it  will  not  work.  Now,  we  propose 
a  practical  plan,  viz. : 

On  Januarylst,  1866,  we  shall  deposit  lu  The  First  National 
Bank  of  Philadelphia,  two  per  cent,  of  our  receipts  on  The 
Soldier's  Casket  for  the  previous  six  montlis,  beside  the  U.  S. 
taxes  we  already  pay.  Said  deposit  to  be  subject  to  the  order 
of  the  U.  S.  Treasury,  and  to  be  a  free-will  oflering  from 
The  Casket  toward  paying  tlie  National  Debt,  whereby  the 
heavy  taxes  now  Imposed,  (and  which,  after  all,  the  laboring 
masses  of  the  people  have  to  pay)  shall  cease.  Our  plan  has 
no  ifs,  and  will  give  all  a  chance  who  may  desire  to  help  the 
great  work.  And  in  order  that  the  patrons  of  The  Casket 
may  receive  their  due  share  of  credit  tlie  name  of  each  sub¬ 
scriber,  handsomely  engrossed  on  parchment,  sliall  be  for¬ 
warded  to  the  Treasury  Department  at  Washington. 

In  view  of  the  objects  stated  above,  we  ask  every  one  who 
sees  this  advertisement  to  subscribe  for  The  Gasket  either 
for  one  year  or  for  six  montlis,  and  send  us  a  club,  no  matter 
how  small. 

For  Terms,  &c..  Sec  Tl»ir«l  Column. 


A  Splendid  Engraving, 

A  Splendid  Engraving, 

A  Splendid  Engraving, 

A  Splendid  Engraving, 

A  Splendid  Engraving, 

The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  of  Willie  Sherman, 
The  Tomb  op  Willie  Sherman, 

Son  op 
Son  of 
Son  of 
Son  of 
Son  of 

Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherman. 
Major  General  W.  T.  Sherjian. 


HOW  TO  RAISE  A  CLUB. 

The  proper  u-ay  to  succeed  in  raising  a  club,  is  to  head  it 
with  your  own  subscription,  if  you  can  afford  it  either  for  one 
year  or  six  months.  Then  take  tills  paper,  and  make  a  spec¬ 
ial  visit  to  all  your  friends,  show  it  to  tliem,  tel'  them  you 
have  subscribed,  and  ask  them  to  join  vou  at  once  in  form 
ing  a  club.  You  can  send  us  subscriptions  as  fast  as  you  get 
tliem,  as  every  sum  yon  send,  from  $1  v.  oward,  will  be  duly 
credited  to  your  account  on  our  Fremiam  List. 

We  would  also  impress  on  the  reader  another  fact.  Do 
not  suppose  that,  because  you  can  not  raise  a  very  large 
club  you  can  not  get  a  premium,  for  it  is  to  give  those  who 
can  only  raise  smaller  clubs  a  chance  to  obtain  a  Premium 
that  we  have  made  such  a  large  number  of  Premiums.  It  is 
quite  likely  that  the  club  which  will  take  our  highest  Pre¬ 
miums  will  not  exceed  45  or  50  yearly  subscribers,  and  also 
that  a  large  number  of  clubs  of  only  two  or  three  names  will 
obtain  our  loiver  premiums. 

SPECIMEN  COPIES 

Sent  (Post-paid,)  for  Twenty-Five  Cents. 

Not  only  on  account  of  these  unequalled  inducements  but 
also  in  view  of  its  National  character,  its  literary  excellence, 
and  the  noble  cause  to  which  it  is  entirely  devoted,  we  ask 
you.  reader,  whoever  you  may  be,  soldier,  sailor,  or  civilian, 
mother,  wile  or  daughter  of  a  Volunteer,  to  send  us,  beside 
your  own  subscription,  a  club  of  your  friends,  no  matter  how 
small. 

Circulars  sent  free  to  subscribers  and  those  sending  for 
Specimen  copies  of  Tlie  Casket. 

The  postage  on  the  Magazine  is  12  cents  a  year,  payable  m 
advance,  quarterly,  at  the  post-office  where  the  suoscrlher 
resides. 

The  subscription  price  Is  $2  per  annum,  or  $1  for  six 
months.  Two  six  montlis  subscriptions  will  be  equal  to  une 
yearly  one.  The  Premiums  are  based  on  the  latter.  Yon  enu 
send  ONE,  TWO  or  a  dozen  subscriptions  at  a  time,  as  yon 
see  fit. 

Give  tlie  Name  and  Date  of  tliis  Papex. 

Addres  C.  W.  ALEXANDER,  Publisher, 
123  SouTH-TniPA)  Street,  Philadelphia  Pa. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


FOR  THE 


ITarm,  Grarcleii,  and  Honseliolci, 

“A6BICTJI.TrKE  18  THE  MOST  HEAETHFUL,  MOST  USEFUL,  AJTD  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OP  MAN.”-W*9Bn.a»oi., 


ORANGE  JUDD,  A.M., 

PUBLISHER  AND  PKOPRIETOR 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings. 


ings.)  ) 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

Publislicd  also  in  German  at  SI. 50  a  Y’ear. 


«1.50  PEE  AHNtTM,  IN  AJDVANCE 
SINGLE  NUMBEH,  16  CENTS. 

4  Copies  for  S  5 ;  10  for  S 13  i  30  or  more,  $  1  eacli. 


VOLUME  XXIV— No.  9. 


NEW- YORK,  SEPTEMBER,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  224. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  the  year  1864,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  the  Cieric’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  Onited  States  for  the  Southern  District  of  New-York. 
5^  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
■freely,  i/'eacli  article  be  credited  to  Amencan  Agriculturist. 


Contents  for  September,  1865. 


Apiaiy  in  September . 267 

Blackberry— The  Kittatinny . 284 

Boys  and  Girls’  Columns— About  Getting  a  Fire — 
Truthfulness  of  a  Hero— A  Noble  Example— Prob¬ 
lems  and  Puzzles— The  Prisoner  and  Her  Pets— 
The  Judge’s  Experiment,  or  Examining  Evidence 
—The  Inventor  of  the  Stocking  Frame— Rogues 

Outwitted — The  Race . 4  Illustrations . .  287-288 

Breeding — In-and-in . - . 279 

Buckwheat— Hints  on  Harvesting . 275 

Bees — Burying. . . Illustrated.  .Hlb 

Capers— About . Illustrated.  .285 

Carving— How  to  do  it  well . 286 

Cattle  Disease— The  Russian  Murrain . 267 

Cheese  Exhibition  at  N.  Y.  State  Fair .  ...267 

Cold  Grapery  in  September . 267 

Corn  Fodder— Cutting  and  Curing. . 278 

Corn — Preserving  Green . 286 

Corn— Wyandot  Methods  of  Drying . 286 

Currants— Varieties  and  Culture . 3  Illustrations . 

Doors — Self  Shutting . 286 

Editorial  Correspondence  . . . . .  Illustrated .  .212 

Fairs — Hints  about . 274 

Fairs— National,  Slate  and  County . 268 

Feed— Cutting  for  Farm  Stock . 274 

Flowers — Herbaceous  Perennials . . . 282 

Flowers— Preserving  in  Natural  Form . 286 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  September . 266 

Fruit  Garden  in  September . 266 

Gazania  splendens . 285 

Grapes  and  Grape  Culture— Notes  on . . . ....283 

Hay  Caps— A  new  suggestion  for . - . 278 

Horse — What  makes  him  vicious,  . Illustrated.  280 

Garden-Kitchen  in  September . 266 

Lily — New  Japanese.  Lilium  Auratum,, Illustrated.  .281 

Moss  Roses . Illustrated..28i 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes . 268 

Notes  and  suggestions  for  September . 265 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  September . — . 266 

Pansy — Cultivation  of . 284 

Potatoes— When  to  select  seed . 280 

Recipes— Steam-cooked  Bread — Chili  Sauce— Green 

Corn  Pudding.. . - . . 287 

Reclaiming  Waste  Ground . ...274 

Sorghum— A  word  about . 279 

Splicing — How  to  splice  a  rope  and  an  eye.. .4  Ulus.. 21b 

Stacks— Building  Round,  (illustrated) . 276 

Stacks — Why  they  Lean . 277 

Strawberries — Notes  on  Culture.... . 284 

Tirn  Bunker  on  Curing  and  Eating  pickles . 285 

Weed — Bladder  Campion,  Silene  injlata. Illustrated .  .211 
Weed — HorseNettles — Solanum  Carolinense.. Ulus..  .283 
■Wells— Drying,  Stoning,  and  Cuibing,3  Ulustralions.213 

Wheat— Advantages  of  Drilling . 278 

Wheat — Why  it  Winter  Kills . 278 

Wheat— Preparations  of  Soil  for  Winter . 379 

■Windows— Substitute  for  Glass  in . 286 

Yeast— Something  about . . 287 

INDEX  TO  “basket,”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


About  Names  . 271 

American  Institute  Fair. 270 

Analytical  Chemist . 271 

Apple  Blossom,  Double. 271 
Ashes  for  Fruit  Trees. .  .271 
Baulky  Horse,  Managing 270 
Barn  Plan  Premiums  ...269 

Book  Pietniutns . 269 

Catalogues,  etc.,  Rec’d.  .271 

Caterpillar  Question - 271 

Cattle.  Russian  Plague.. 270 

Cider  Vinegar . 271 

Cranberry  Culture . 271 

Curculio  Remedy . 271 


Ditching  Machines  . 270 

Domestic  Intelligence.. .269 

Eggs,  Storing . 270 

Fallows . 270 

Garden  Edgings . .271 

Grama  Grass . 270 

Grape  Trellises, Hill  Side271 

Glanders,  Caution . 269 

Hair,  Value  as  Manure. .270 

Harvests,  etc . 269 

Hay  and  Straw,  ChafEng.270 

Horse  Collars . 270 

Ice  Houses . 270 

Insects,  Killing . 271 


Insects  upon  Insects.... 271 

Insect  Queries  . . 271 

Lime  on  Wheat  Soils. .  .270 

List  of  Fairs . 269 

Manure,  Keeping . 270 

Meadows,  Renovating.. .270 

Osier  Willows . 269 

Pigeons  on  the  Farm ....  270 

Plants  named . 271 

Poultry  Book,  New . 269 

Premiums,  Subscribers.. 269 


Scythe  Sharpening . 270 

Sheep,  Weight  of  Fleeces269 

Strawberry  Plants . 269 

Subscription  Terms. ...  .269 
'Toadstools,  Great  Year, 271 
Tomato  Seeds,  Saving.  .271 
Tree  Pedler-s  Hard  on.  .269 
Washing  Machine, Doty’s269 

Wheat,  Smut  in . 270 

Who  Reads  Ad’s . 269 

Wistaria . 271 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

The  month  of  September  is  one  of  very 
varied  labors.  We  sow  for  next  year’s  crops, 
and  we  reap  the  harvests  of  the  present  season. 
We  are  anxious  lest  frost  shall  pinch  too  soon, 
and  dread  too  great  heat  and  drouth,  lest  our 
root  crops  and  pasturage  shall  suffer.  September 
seals  the  fate  of  the  corn  crop  which  is,  next 
to  hay,  the  most  important  of  the  products  of 
the  soil.  A  dry  autumn  is  looked  forward  to  by 
many ;  perhaps  it  will  come,  if  so,  it  will  offer 
peculiar  facilities  for  draining,  getting  out 
swamp  muck,  and  doing  many  other  things, 
which  we  could  not  do  if  it  were  wet. 

Apples. — When  animals  are  excluded  from 
the  orchard,  those  apples  that  fall  this  month 
should  be  dried,  made  into  cider  for  vinegar,  or 
cooked  for  fattening  swine.  In  the  warm 
weather  of  September,  fruit  will  dry  rapidly. 
It  will  therefore  require  less  care  than  in  Oc¬ 
tober,  but  the  apples  are  not  so  solid  and  good. 

Agricultural  Fairs. — Make  plans  not  only  to 
attend  a  fair  or  two,  but  to  contribute  some 
articles  of  utility  or  skill,  that  will  add  to  the 
interest  of  the  occasion.  Discourage  horse-racing. 

Beans. — Pull  early  beans  as  soon  as  the  pods 
appear  well  matured.  They  should  not  be  al¬ 
lowed  to  stand  until  they  are  dead  ripe,  and  the 
leaves  dry.  Spread  them  on  the  barn  floor,  or 
on  loose  boards  under  shelter.  They  will  cure 
in  such  places  better  than  if  piled  in  the  field. 

Beets. — Pull  up  all  weeds  among  them,  and 
throw  them  around  the  plants  for  a  mulching. 
Thin  out  the  small  ones  for  table  use.  Those 
that  are  to  remain  for  winter’s  use,  should  be  ten 
inches  apart.  They  will  occupy  all  the  ground. 

Bones. — Save  hones  of  all  kinds  for  fertilizing 
the  soil.  Instead  of  allowing  them  to  disfigure 
the  yard,  or  way-side,  order  every  one  to  be 
thrown  into  a  large  box,  or  hogshead  in  the 
back  yard,  beyond  the  reach  of  dogs.  Every 
family  can  collect  several  dollar’s  worth  yearly. 

Carrots. — This  is  the  month  for  carrots  to  grow. 
Run  a  subsoil  plow  twice  between  the  rows,  or 
spade  the  ground  and  dress  them  for  the  last 
time.  Let  no  other  green  thing  but  carrot  tops 
be  seen.  If  the  ground  is  not  already  rich 
enough,  apply  liquid  manure,  or  fine  manure 
of  some  kind,  worked  in  between  the  drills. 

Calves  and  Colts,  unless  they  are  too  young, 
should  he  entirely  separated  this  month  from 
their  dams.  If  grass  is  short,  they  should  be 
fed  green  corn  stalks  cut  fine,  or  fine  hay,  wet¬ 


ted  up  with  aC  little  meal  daily,  and  should  have 
a  constant  supply  of  fresh  wtrter. 

Cows. — Read  about  cows  in  Calendar  for 
August.  Those  that  will  come  in  shortly,  and 
are  already  in  good  flesh,  should  be  kept  in 
rather  poor  pasture.  Let  farrow  cows,  de¬ 
signed  for  beef  next  winter,  be  dried  off  at 
once,  but  kill  no  more  cows  than  can  be  helped. 

Draining. — Every  rod  of  good  under  drain 
will  in  one  or  two  seasons  pay  the  expense  of 
making  it,  by  rendering  the  soil  more  productive. 
Where  ditches  are  already  dug,  let  them  be  fil¬ 
led  before  heavy  fall  rains  come  on  and  cave  in 
the  sides.  There  is  no  better  time  in  all  the  year 
than  September  to  drain  beds  of  muck  and  peat. 

Debts. — Pay  up  every  financial  indebtedness 
as  soon  as  returns  for  crops  have  been  received, 
and  do  not  forget  the  large  amounts  due  to  your 
soil  for  the  abundant  crops  of  the  present  season. 
If  the  soil  cannot  make  a  sight  draft  for  ser¬ 
vices  rendered,  it  will  perceptibly  withhold 
payment,  until  all  such  dues  are  canceled. 

Fodder. — Save  every  thing  that  will  make  feed 
for  animals  next  winter.  Mow  all  fence  nooks 
and  cure  for  hay.  Some  farmers  are  glad  to 
dispose  of  their  straw,  if  an}’-  one  will  remove  it 
free  of  charge.  When  farmers  are  thrashing 
grain  is  the  time  to  procure  a  good  supply. 

Grass  Seed. — There  is  no  better  time  to  sow 
new  or  old  land  with  grass  seed,  than  September. 
If  the  ground  is  not  in  good  heart,  give  it  a  thin 
top  dressing,  which  should  be  harrowed  in, 
and  then  sow  the  seed  without  harrowing. 

Granaries. — While  they  are  empty,  give  them 
thorough  cleaning.  Sweep  out  the  spider  webs, 
and  whitewash  over  head,  and  wash  the  floor 
with  strong  soap  suds,  or  not  too  strong  ley,  to 
kill  all  insects  concealed  in  the  cracks. 

Horses. — When  not  at  work,  keep  in  a  cool 
stable  during  the  day,  rather  than  let  them  be 
tormented  by  flies  in  the  field.  Peed  three 
times  in  24  hours,  no  more  than  they  eat  clean. 

Haying  and  Stacks. — Read  about  stacks  in 
the  present  number,  and  as  haying  is  finished, 
see  that  every  stack  is  securely  topped  off 

Hogs.— Keep  fattening  swine  in  comfortably 
close  quarters.  Feed  well  and  regularly  with 
ground  grain  and  cooked  feed.  Give  a  few 
handfuls  of  powdered  charcoal,  dampened,  and 
sprinkled  .with  meal.  It  is  an  excellent  tonic. 
Keep  the  hogs  and  their  pens  clean,  change  their 
bedding  as  it  becomes  dirty.  Where  unground 
and  uncooked  corn  is  to  be  fed,  begin  as  soon 
as  it  glazes,  it  is  then  more  digestible. 

Implements.— 'When  not  in  use,  keep  washed 
clean,  the  bright  surfaces  oiled  and  housed. 

Irrigation. — Prepare  channels  while  the 
ground  is  dry  for  carrying  the  wash  of  uplands 
and  highways  upon  meadows  and  pastures. 
Lay  out  plats  for  irrigation  at  will,  where  water 
may  be  turned  on,  and  good  drainage  secured. 


Q66 


AMKRICAN  agriculturist, 


[September, 


3Ianure.—See  that  no  fei'tilizing  matei'Uil  is 
■  wasted.  Devise  tlic  best  means  for  increasing  the 
qnantity  of  manure  the  following  year.  Every 
thing  that  will  grow,  or  has  grown  in  one  season, 
will  rot  before  the  next,  if  well  composted. 

J/eadows.-Keep  all  stock  from  them  during  the  dry 
and  hot  weather,  until  the  young  grass  has  attained 
sufficient  size  to  shade  the  ground.  Let  men  and 
boys  pick  uj)  and  haul  off  stones  from  mowed  fields, 
BO  that  there  will  be  no  obstructions  next  season. 

Muck.— As  soon  as  field  labors  are  not  urgent,  dig 
muck  and  pile  it  beneath  a  shed  of  rough  boards, 
where  it  will  be  kept  dry  and  in  good  condition  for 
use  in  the  stables  and  manure  yard. 

Linseed  Cake. — Now  is  the  best  time  to  secure  by 
contract  a  supply  for  feeding.  The  profits  are 
found  in  the  manure  heap  as  much  as  in  the  beef, 
though  but  few  appear  to  know  it. 

Oak  Protect  from  autumnal  rains,  which 

rapidly  depreciate  its  value,  if  exposed  to  them. 

Oxen. — Working  oxen  and  fattening  bullocks  de¬ 
signed  for  beef,  should  now  be  fed  well.  Oxen  will 
grow  fat  and  work  hard  too,  if  they  are  used  gently, 
fed  and  watered  regularly,  and  curried  often. 

Potatoes.— Dig  early  sorts  as  soon  as  they  are 
matured,  and  the  vines  show  signs  of  decay ;  cover 
from  the  sun  with  tops,  and  house  soon  as  possible. 

Poultry. — When  poultry  are  fed  with  meal,  or 
grain  only  once  daily,  let  it  be  towards  evening, 
rather  than  morning,  to  induce  them  to  search 
after  and  consume  more  insects  and  grass. 

Pye. — Sow  an  acre  or  more  for  horse  feed  and  for 
long  straw,  if  the  soil  is  well  drained.  If  not,  sow 
spring  rye  on  land  plowed  this  autumn,  if  possible. 

Sheep. — Separate  those  designed  for  mutton,  and 
feed  well  with  grain.  Let  all  kinds  have  access  to 
good  feed,  salt,  water,  and  shelter  from  cold  rains. 

Weeds. — Pestiferous  plants  are  now  maturing  their 
seeds.  W.age  a  war  of  extermination  upon  them. 
Mow'them  as  often  as  they  are  large  enough.  Cut 
them  down  with  reapers.  Clip  them  close  to  the 
ground  with  hoes,  and  when  they  appear  among 
brush,  stone  wails,  or  in  any  nook  where  they  can¬ 
not  be  cut,  put  on  leather  mittens  and  pull  them. 
Suffer  no  seed  to  mature.  Few  weeds  can  fiourish 
for  many  years,  if  they  can  not  perfect  seed. 

Wheat. — Rc.ad  the  articles  on  winter  wheat  in  this 
number.  Prepare  the  soil  well,  sow  in  good  season, 
or  defer  till  next  spring  and  sow  spring  wheat. 

Work  im  tEie  Orchard  and  Wiirscry. 

The  main  work  to  be  done  in  the  Orchard  is 
picking  and  marketing  the  fruit.  Unfortunately 
this  labor  will  generally  be  light,  the  amount  of 
fruit  being  so  small.  As  in  other  times  of  scarcity 
of  fruit,  prices  will  probably  be  high,  and  it  will 
pay  to  make  the  most  of  what  there  is,  and  take 
the  greatest  care  in  picking  and  marketing,  as  sug¬ 
gested  in  last  month’s  calendar.  Gather  peaches 
before  they  soften,  so  that  they  will  reach  the  re¬ 
tailer  un bruised.  Pears  should  never  mellow  on  the 
tree,  but  fall  varieties  are  to  be  picked  and  market¬ 
ed  as  soon  as  the  stem  readily  parts  from  the  limb, 
and  winter  sorts  allowed  to  remain  until  frosts  come. 

Budding. — The  peach  is  generally  worked  this 
month,  but  any  other  stocks,  of  which  the  bark  will 
slip,  may  be  budded.  Stocks  budded  earlier  in  the 
season,  are  to  be  looked  to,  and  if  their  growth  has 
rendered  the  bandage  too  tight,  it  must  be  loosened. 

Drying  and  Preserving  Fruits. — Peaches  may  be 
both  dried  and  canned,  and  apples  dried  carefullj'. 
Pears,  put  up  in  bottles  with  weak  syrup  are  nice. 

Insects. — Treat  borers  as  directed  in  last  month’s 
calendar,  and  destroy  all  cocoons  and  deposits  of 
eggs  that  are  found  while  picking  the  fruit. 

Labels. — The  nurserymen  will  need  a  supply  of 
these  for  the  fall  trade.  All  stocks  are  to  be  pfoper- 
ly  labelled  at  the  time  they  are  budded.  Renew 
weather-worn  labels.  In  all  considerable  collections 
of  fruit  there  will  be  one  or  several  trees  of  which 
the  variety  is  not  known.  Take  specimens  of  the 
fruit  of  these  to  the  fairs,  or  to  experienced  po- 
mologists  and  endeavor  to  ascertain  the  name. 


The  supply  for  next  spring’s  top  dres¬ 
sing  ought  to  be  accumulating  now,  and  the  com¬ 
post  heap  be  growing  by  the  addition  of  stable  and 
barnyard  manure,  muck,  ashes  and  other  fertilizers. 

Nursery  Bows. — Keep  the  growing  stock  clear  of 
weeds  by  the  use  of  the  plow,  and  if-  the  young 
trees  need  it,  give  them  their  final  cutting  back. 

Planting. — Preparation  may  be  made  for  fall 
planting,  by  draining,  m.anuring  and  plowing  the 
land.  Attend  the  horticultural  shows  and  fruit  dis¬ 
cussions,  and  visit  fruit  growers,  to  get  all  possible 
information  about  varieties  before  ordering  trees. 

Seeds. — Seeds  of  all  kinds  are  to  be  saved.  Pits 
of  stone  fruits,  bury  in  the  earth,  taking  care  to 
save  those  from  healthy  trees  only. 

Seed  Beds. — Young  seedlings  often  suffer  from 
drouth  during  this  month.  Water  if  needed,  loosen 
the  surface  of  the  soil,  and  keep  free  from  weeds. 


Crardcsi. — An  abundance  re¬ 
wards  the  labors  of  the  gardener,  and  he  ought 
to  let  nothing  go  to  waste.  In  private  gardens, 
where  the  surplus  is  not  marketed,  there  are 
many  things  which  can  be  preserved  for  winter 
use.  Pickles  of  various  kinds  are  to  be  salted,  to¬ 
matoes  preserved  in  jars  or  jugs,  sweet  corn  and 
beans  to  be  dried,  etc.  All  refuse  is  to  be  carefully 
gathered  up,  not  only  to  preserve  neatness,  but  for 
the  benefit  of  future  crops.  According  to  its  na¬ 
ture  it  should  find  its  way  to  the  hog  pen,  the  cattle 
yard,  or  be  taken  directly  to  the  compost  heap. 

Beans. — Preserve  string  beans  in  salt  as  noted 
last  month.  Shell  the  Limas  .and  dry  them.  When 
soaked  out  in  winter  they  will  be  lound  an  excel¬ 
lent  accompaniment  to  dried  green  corn  succotash. 

Cabbages  and  Caidijloivers. — Hoe  the  late  plant¬ 
ings  .and  look  out  for  slugs,  which  are  very  trouble¬ 
some  in  some  pl.aces.  Where  young  plants  are 
needed  to  winter  in  frames  for  early  spring  setting, 
sow  the  seed  this  month  in  open  ground. 

Celery. — Th.at  in  trenches  is  to'be  earthed  up  when 
it  is  about  10  inches  high.  For  the  treatment  of 
that  grown  with  surface  culture,  see  details  in  Mr. 
Henderson’s  article  in  July  number. 

Corn. — As  soon  as  the  ears  are  taken  from  the 
early  sorts,  remove  the  stalks.  C.attle  are  very 
fond  of  them.  Save  enough  of  the  earliest  and 
best  for  seed.  Dry  as  directed  under  Household. 

Ciwumbers. — Save  seed  as  directed  in  last  month’s 
calendar.  Go  over  the  vines  every  day,  or  at  least 
every  other  day  and  gather  all  suitable  size  for 
pickles  and  put  them  in  brine.  See  Tim  Bunker, 
on  page  285.  Those  too  large  for  table  use  make 
good  sweet  pickles,  .and  those  who  like  egg  fruit 
will  find  cucumbers,  when  sliced,  dipped  in  but¬ 
ter,  and  fried  in  the  same  manner  very  nice. 

Endive. — Blanch  when  the  plants  are  a  foot  or 
less  across.  The  object  is  to  exclude  the  light  and 
cause  the  central  leaves  to  become  white  and  ten¬ 
der,  and  to  lose  their  bitterness,  and  it  is  accom¬ 
plished  by  tying  the  leaves  together  by  the  tops, 
by  covering  with  a  flower-pot,  or  with  a  mat.  In 
either  case  it  should  be  done  where  the  plants  are 
drj',  and  if  they  are  wetted  by  rain  the  leaves  are 
opened  for  a  short  time  to  dry,  and  again  covered. 

Kale. — Sow  the  kind  c.alled  German  Greens, 
which  is  hardy,  and  will  winter  over. 

Manure. — Have  an  eye  to  the  wants  of  next  ye.ar’s 
crop,  and  let  every  particle  of  refuse  from  the  gar¬ 
den  go  where  it  will  be  converted  into  compost. 

Melons. — Turn,  to  ripen  both  sides.  They  are 
ready  to  pick  when  the  stem  parts  readily  from  the 
fruit.  The  quality  is  much  improved  by  putting 
the  fruit  upon  ice  for  a  few  hours  before  it  is  eaten. 

Onions. — When  a  majordty  of  the  tops  have  fall¬ 
en,  the  onions  may  be  pulled.  Those  to  be  stored, 
should  be  thoroughly  dried  before  housing  them. 

Parsley. — Sow  for  plants  to  keep  over  winter. 

Badish. — The  Chinese  Rose-colored  Winter  is 
greatly  superior  to  any  other  kind  of  winter  rad¬ 
ish.  It  keeps  as  well  as  a  turnip,  and  is  fresh, 
crisp,  and  has  a  good  flavor.  Sow  early  this  month. 


Seeds. — Continue  to  gather  according  to  hints 
given  for  last  month’s  calendar.  Label  everything. 

Spinach. — Sow  in  drills  15  inches  apart,  and  when 
the  plants  are  large  enough,  weed  and  thin  them. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — The  vines  are  to  be  moved  occa¬ 
sionally  to  prevent  them  from  striking  root.  Some 
of  the  largest  roots  may  be  carefully  removed  from 
the  plants,  le.aving  the  smaller  ones  to  grow. 

Squashes. — Continue  to  kill  insects.  Clear  away 
the  old  vines  of  the  summer  sorts.  Allow  the 
vines  of  winter  kinds  to  root  freely  at  the  joints. 

Tomatoes. — The  disgusting  large  green  worm 
which  is  known  as  the  tobacco-worm,  which  is  the 
larva  of  one  of  the  hawk  moths,  is  very  fond  of  the 
tomato.  A  single  one  of  these  will  make  great 
havoc  on  a  vine,  and  strip  leaves  and  young  fruit 
in  the  most  voracious  manner.  When  any  tracks 
are  seen,  search  for  and  kill  the  enemy.  Preserve 
a  good  supply  of  the  fruit  in  jars,  bottles  or  jugs, 
and  make  catsup,  during  the  season  of  abundance. 

Turnips. — By  giving  the  long  turnips  g.arden  cul¬ 
ture,  which  implies  frequent  hoeing,  a  large  yield 
may  be  had.  The  round  sorts,  if  sown  in  good 
soil  this  month,  will  usually  make  a  fair  crop. 

Weeds. — There  should  be  no  unoccupied  land  in 
the  g.arden,  but  if  there  is  any  which  has  no  crop 
upon  it,  do  not  let  it  bear  weeds.  This  is  the  seed 
time  with  many  weeds,  and  a  little  care  now  in  ex¬ 
terminating  them,  will  save  much  future  trouble. 

Winter  Cherry. — Gather  as  the  hulls  turn  yellow, 
and  preserve  or  keep  for  winter  use  in  a  dry  place. 


Fruit  eSarden. — Blaclcberries—Q\ii  out 
the  old  caues  as  soon  as  the  fruit  is  off,  and  allow 
only  two,  or  at  most  three  canes  of  the  new  growth 
to  the  stool.  These  should  not  be  allowed  to  grow 
over  6  feet  high.  Shorten  in  rampant  side  shoots. 

Currants. — Remove  suckers  and  keep  out  weeds. 

Grapes. — Unfortunately  the  majority  of  our  read¬ 
ers  will  be  at  but  little  trouble  to  dispose  of  their 
fruit — rot  and  mildew  having  done  that  for  them. 
Those  who  have  escaped  these  scourges  will  get 
good  prices,  and  ought  to  be  ready  with  packages  for 
marketing  their  fruit.  New,  shallow,  wooden  boxes 
which  will  hold  10  pounds  of  grapes  are  best. 
Those  who  h.ave  lost  their  crop  ought  not,  as  we 
have  seen  sever.al  do,  quite  neglect  their  vines,  but 
every  pains  should  be  taken  to  get  strong  and  well 
ripened  wood  for  another  year.  Instead  of  allow¬ 
ing  the  laterals  to  grow  and  weaken  the  canes, 
they  are  to  be  kept  properly  pinched,  and  the  pro¬ 
longation  of  the  main  shoot  stopped  this  month. 

Pears. — Collect  autumn  varieties  as  soon  as  fully 
grown,  at  which  time  the  stem  will  part  from  its 
attachment  to  the  tree  by.gently  lifting  the  fruit. 
Spread  upon  shelves  to  ripen.  There  are  but  few 
varieties  that  are  not  greatly  improved  in  juiceness 
and  flavor  by  ripening  them  in  the  house. 

Baspberries. — Train  up  two  or  three  new  canes  to 
e.ach  root,  for  fruiting  next  year,  and  remove  all 
others.  Keep  the  ground  loose  and  clean  about  them. 

Strawberries. — Set  out  beds  as  described  in  article 
on  page  284.  Established  beds,  if  hill  culture  is 
followed,  should  have  the  runners  clipped. 

Flower  Garden  and  liawn.— If  a 

good  share  of  late  blooming  plants  were  provided, 
the  garden  should  be  this  month  quite  as  brilliant 
as  ever.  The  Asters,  Double  Zinnias,  and  Helichry- 
sums  among  annuals,  and  Salvi.as,  Ageratums,  and 
other  bedding  plants,  are  now  in  their  fullest  flower 

Bulbs. — Set  the  spring  flowering  bulbs  late  this 
month,  or  what  is  quite  as  well,  early  next  month. 
At  all  events  it  is  safe  to  purchase  bulbs  as  soon  as 
the  dealers  get  in  their  stock,  as  the  demand  has 
been  for  several  years  greater  than  could  be  supplied. 

Bedding  Plants. — Fuchsias,  Lantanas  and  others 
which  it  is  desired  to  keep  over  winter,  are  to  be 
taken  up  and  potted  before  the  nights  become  very 
cool.  Cuttings  should  be  taken  while  the  pl.ants 
are  still  vigorous,  and  struck  in  pots,  or  in  a  s.audy 
spot  out  of  doors  ;  if  properly  treated,  they  will 
soon  make  good  plants  for  flowering  in  the  house. 


1865. 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST, 


Q67 


Chrysanthanums.—lhm  out  the  weak  shoots. 
Pot  some  of  the  best  for  house  bloomius-  They 
will  wilt  some  when  first  lifted,  but  if  kept  iii 
the  shade,  they  wilt  soon  recover  and  bloom  finely. 

Dahlias. — These  are  in  full  bloom,  and  care  is  to 
be  taken  that  the  autumn.at  gales  do  not  make 
havoc  with  their  tender  stems.  Large  branches 
will  frequently  split  off  by  their  own  weight;  put 
in  extra  stakes  if  needed,  and  make  thorough  work 
with  tying.  Remove  the  flowers  as  soon  as  they 
pass  their  prime,  and  cut  out  all  imperfect  buds. 

Oladioluses.—K^Q^  the  stems  well  tied  up  and 
cut  off  the  spikes  as  soon  as  the  flowers  fade. 

Lawns. — Mow  occasionally.  If  there  are  weeds 
eradicate  them.  Sow  seed  on  thin  or  bare  spots. 

Pere7inials  and  Biennials. — Sow  seed  in  well  pre¬ 
pared  soil  early  this  month,  as  noted  on  page  282. 

Pits. — If  there  is  no  flower  pit  for  wintering  half 
hardy  plants,  one  can  be  easily  made.  Dig  a  pit 
about  6  feet  deep,  wide  enough  to  accomodate  a 
hot-bed  sash,  and  as  long  as  convenient.  Set  posts 
in  the  corners  and  board  up  the  sides,  make  all 
tight,  and  fit  the  sash  to  cover  it  with  sufBcient 
slope  to  carry  off  rain.  Roses,  carnations  and 
many  other  plants  will  winter  safely  in  such  a  pit. 

Potted  Plants.— As  the  nights  become  cool,  the  more 
tender  ones  are  to  be  removed  to  the  green  house. 

Seeds. — Continue  to  save,  as  directed  in  last 
month’s  calendar.  Label  as  soon  .as  gathered. 


Oreeii  and  Mot  Houses.— The  build¬ 
ings  should  be  made  quite  ready,  as  a  sudden  change 
in  the  weather  may  call  them  into  requisition. 
Cleaning,  painting,  white-washing,  and  all  repairs 
should  be  out  of  the  way.  Do  all  needed  glazing, 
see  that  ropes  and  pulleys  .are  in  running  order, 
and  that  the  healing  apparatus  is  likely  to  last 
through  the  winter.  Renew  bark  and  saw-dust 
beds,  and  provide  an  ample  store  of  coal,  piots,  and 
potting  soil.  Bring  in  the  more  tender  plants  as 
soon  as  the  nights  become  cool. 

— Sow  seeds  in  pots  for  winter  flowering. 

Bulbs. — Pot  Cape  bulbs,  as  well  as  the  different 
v.arieties  of  Cyclamens,  Oxalis,  etc. 

Callas. — A  good  supply  of  these  is  v.aluable  for 
the  decoration  of  the  house.  Divide  and  re-pot. 

Camelias. — Re-pot  if  they  need  it.  Clean  the  foli¬ 
age  with  a  wet  sponge,  and  where  flower  buds 
have  set  too  thickly  remove  a  portion  of  them. 

Potting. — Take  up  those  plants  which  were  turn¬ 
ed  out  into  the  borders  as  it  is  desirable  to  pre¬ 
serve,  or  to  have  flower  in-doors  during  winter. 

Dressing. — Pots  which  have  been  out  of  doors 
need  to  be  ele.aued  from  accumulations  of  moss,  etc., 
and  the  surface  soil  renewed.  Stake,  trim,  re¬ 
move  dead  leaves,  and  put  them  in  complete  order. 


CoUl  Grapery. — As  with  the  exception 
of  some  very  late  sorts,  the  fruit  is  now  ripe,  there 
is  nothing  to  be  done  except  to  keep  the  atmos¬ 
phere  of  the  house  dry.  Ventilate  freely,  but  close 
all  up  during  the  continuance  of  stormy  weather. 


The  Apiary  for  September. — Pre¬ 
pared  by  M.  Quinlfy.,  by  request. — A  swarm  of  bees 
issuing  with  a  young  queen  (that  is  a  second 
swarm,)  is  liable  to  become  queenless  within  a  week 
or  two  after  being  hived.  If  the  swarm  is  large, 
and  honey  abund.ant,  the  hive  will  be  nearly  filled. 
However  large  the  sw.arm  at  first,  but  few  bees 
will  be  left  by  the  last  of  the  month,  and  they  are 
liable  to  be  robbed  as  soon  as  honey  fails  in  the 
flowers.  Such  should  be  removed  now.  Although 
it  may  contain  sufficient  stores  for  winter,  it  can 
never  be  made  into  a  prosperous  colony,  as  most 
of  the  combs  will  be  composed  of  drone  cells ; 
consequently  most  of  the  bees  raised  will  be  drones. 
Much  of  the  honey  will  equal  that  put  in  boxes, 
for  the  table.  The  few  worker  cells  will  mostly 
contain  bee-bread,  and  be  fit  for  nothing.  All  very 
weak  stocks  must  now  be  taken  care  of  if  unable 
to  defend  their  stores.  If  they  possess  means  of 
defence,  although  unfit  for  winter,  they  may  stand 


till  October,  that  the  remaining  brood  may  hatch. 
Any  person  having  a  dozen  healthy  stocks,  in  mov¬ 
able-comb  hives,  has  no  excuse  for  having  any 
such  weak  colonies,  as  with  timely  care  in  chang¬ 
ing  combs,  making  the  strong  aid  the  weak,  all 
can  be  made  good.  An  old  stock  found  queenless, 
with  stores  for  winter,  and  uninjured  by  the  worms 
may  be  m.ade  prosperous  by  introducing  bees  and 
a  queen  from  some  inferior  one.  Expose  no  honey 
where  bees  can  get  at  it,  as  it  induces  robbing.  If 
it  is  desired  to  feed,  put  the  honey  upon  some  hive 
with  a  cover,  to  keep  bees  from  it.  The  infection 
of  foul  brood  is  spread  more  at  this  season  than  at 
any  other.  In  sections  where  it  exists  much  care 
is  necessary,  and  all  affected  colonies  should  now 
be  removed.  Where  there  is  much  of  it,  the  col¬ 
ony  appears  much  stronger  than  it  really  is.  Strong 
stocks  take  advantage  of  the  weaker  ones,  and 
carry  off  the  honey,  thus  infecting  all  that  partake 
of  it.  Every  old  hive,  whether  weak  or  otherwise, 
should  be  examined.  All  strong  ones  m.ay  go  till 
next  month.  Smoke  and  invert  box  hives,  and 
open  some  of  the  oldest  sealed  brood-cells.  If  the 
bee  is  dark  colored  while  in  the  larva;,  it  is  dead, 
and  not  a  particle  of  the  honey  in  such  hive  should 
be  allowed  to  be  taken  into  healthy  ones  without 
being  cleaned  by  scalding.  If  the  combs  are  not 
too  old,  the  honey  stored  near  the  outside  and  top 
is  good  for  the  table,  but  the  combs  near  the  mid¬ 
dle  .and  bottom  have  cells  containing  dead  brood 
scattered  through  them,  th.at  cannot  be  easily  sep¬ 
arated  from  the  rest.  It  is  best  disposed  of  by 
burying.  Remove  all  surplus  boxes.  Any  honey 
left  unsealed  will  be  removed  into  the  hive,  as 
soon  as  flowers  fail.  If  they  have  stored  any  sur¬ 
plus,  they  should  have  enough  in  the  hive  without 
appropriating  any  from  the  boxes. 

- »  .  —  <»»-  I  » - 

The  Russian  Cattle  Murrain. 


For  some  lime  past  there  have  been  fears  that  the  Rus¬ 
sian  Murrain  among  neat  cattle,  which  has  been  very 
destructive  in  Europe,  and  was  grad\ially  working 
westward,  would  cross  the  channel  to  England  with  the 
great  number  of  beeves  and  veals  brought  from  the  con¬ 
tinent.  There  has  been  less  danger  of  its  comkig  to 
America,  because  our  importations  have  been  Very  small 
of  late,  owing  to  the  high  rate  of  exchange  and  gold. 
Now,  however,  as  gold  is  lower,  and  we  are  beginning  to 
import  again,  Alderneys,  Ayrshires,  etc.,  we  hear  of  the 
breaking  out  of  this  terrible  plague  among  the  caltle  of 
London  and  its  neighborhood.  On  the  31st  of  July  a 
meeting  was  held  in  London  to  consider  this  subject,  and 
Professor  Gamgee,  whose  writings  on  veterinary  subjects 
have  made  him  almost  as  well  known  in  this  country  as 
Great  Britian,  made  a  statement  of  the  origin  and  spread 
of  this  cattle  plague  in  and  about  London,  an  abstract  of 
which  we  give.  All  cattle  brought  to  this  country  from 
abroad  ought  to  be  examined  by  a  good  veterinary  phy¬ 
sician  and  quarantined  if  necessary.  They  are  now 
subjected  to  no  examination  whatever,  and  ships  are 
constantly  arriving  which  bring  cows  for  milk,  and  sell 
the  same,  by  the  way,  as  imported  animals,  as  indeed  they 
are,  though  probably  not  half  so  good  as  our  own  com¬ 
mon  stock.  Prof.  Gamgee  stated  th.at : 

“  The  first  appearance  of  the  malady,  as  far  as  it  can  be 
at  present  traced,  dates  back  to  June  27,  when  six  cows, 
which  had  been  purchased  on  the  I9th  in  the  Metropolitan 
Cattle  Market,  were  seized  with  the  disease  in  Mrs. 
Nicholl’s  dairy,  15  Park  place,  Liverpool  road,  Islington, 
Circumstances  favored  the  spread  of  the  malady,  as,  al¬ 
though  the  six  cows  were  placed  in  a  quarantine  shed, 
other  cows  happen  to  have  been  in  the  same  place,  and 
thus  the  malady  was  propagated.  One  hundred  and  fif¬ 
teen  have  died.  It  is  impossible  now  to  give  the  suc¬ 
ceeding  outbreaks  in  order  of  time  and  without  specially 
naming  the  cow-keepers.  I  may  mention  that  the  malady 
has  been  and  is  more  particularly  confined  to  the  dis¬ 
tricts  of  Islington,  St.  Pancras,  St.  Marylebone,  and  Pad¬ 
dington.  It  is  at  the  present  moment  raging  severely  in 
Marylebone,  at  Kilburn,  Hendon,  Hempstead  and  Syden¬ 
ham,  and  also  it  is  said  at  Cheam,  Surrey.  Since  Satur¬ 
day  I  have  received  information  directly  and  indirectly, 
but  chiefly  from  personal  inquiries,  concerning  twelve 
distinct  outbreaks.  I  shall  state  the  particulars  in  the 
order  in  which  I  have  gleaned  them.  1.  The  first  shed  I 
visited  was  in  Marylebone.  Forty-five  animals,  in  ap¬ 
parently  the  most  perfect  health,  were  in  this  yard  on 
Thursday,  the  20th.  The  owner  had  been  to  the  Metro¬ 
politan  Cattle  .Market  on  the  14th  or  thereabouts,  and 
was  shown  some  cattle  laboring  under  the  disease.  He 


approached  them  within  a  yard  or  two.  hut  feared  to 
touch  them.  Within  a  week — viz  ^  on  Friday,  tlie  21st, 
he  noticed  some  of  his  animals  sick,  and  saw  they  were 
laboring  under  the  disease  he  had  witnessed  in  the  mar¬ 
ket.  On  Saturday  he  began  to  get  rid  of  them,  and  sold 
twenty-eight  by  Tuesday,  25lli.  The  remainder  of  the 
stock  was  turned  out  in  fields,  1  know  not  where,  anu  is 
said  to  be  still  healthy.  2.  A  cow-keejier  in  the  immedi¬ 
ate  neighborhood  of  the  last  one  had  .sixteen  cows  in 
perfect  health,  and  lost  the  whole  in  a  fortiught.  3.  In 
an  adjoining  street  a  third  dairyman  had  seventy  cows 
distributed  in  variotis  sheds,  besides  seventv  in  the  coun¬ 
try.  A  cow  was  bought  in  the  Metropolitan  Cattle  Mar¬ 
ket  on  the  loth  of  July,  and  on  the  IBtli  this  animal 
showed  signs  of  the  disease.  She  had  been  placed  in  a 
shed  with  twenty-three  others.  Twelve  were  fat  and 
were  sold  in  the  market  before  any  sickness  manifested 
itself  on  them.  The  other  twelve  were  seized,  including 
the  newly-bought  one,  and  of  these  eight  have  died  and 
four  are  still  living,  but  not  at  all  likely  to  recover.  As 
yet  the  remaining  stock  in  distant  sheds  is  in  perfect 
health.  4.  An  extensive  cow-kee|>er  with  a  choice  stock 
of  seventy  cows,  purchased  a  Dutch  beast  nearly  a 
month  back.  Within  a  few  days  it  was  affected,  and  the 
seventy  animals  were  all  seized  within  a  fortnight.  1  saw 
three  convalescent  on  Saturdav,  but  in  a  very  reduced 
condition.  5.  Near  Cumberland  market  a  dairyman  hav¬ 
ing  usually  between  forty  and  fifty  cows,  lost  the  whole 
within  three  weeks.  6.  Another  dairyman  in  the  same 
neighborhood  has  the  disease  among  his  stock  at  the 
present  moment.  7.  In  St.  Pancras  a  dairyman  has  lost 
ten  within  a  few  days.  8.  A  cow-keeper  in  Camden 
Town  had  a  stock  of  sixteen  cows  in  perfect  health  in 
the  early  part  of  this  month  ;  they  all  died  in  a  fortnight. 
He  fumigated  and  otherwise  disinfected  his  shed,  and 
bought  six  fresh  animals,  of  which  two  are  already  dead. 
9.  Near  Willesden  ailairyman  has  lost  sixty-five  animals 
within  a  fortnight.”  The  remedy  he  suggested  was 
that  they  should  adopt  somewhat  similar  measures  to 
those  put  in  force  when  the  small-pox  broke  out  among 
the  slieep  in  1862,  and  which  had  the  effect  of  success¬ 
fully  checking  the  disease: — Flocks  rigorously  isolated 
for  medical  treatment  or  slaughter,  pens  disinfected,  etc. 

The  same  high  veterinary  authority,  after  stating  the 
facts  of  its  being  communicated  by  cars  and  vessels  in 
which  the  stock  has  been  conveyed,  and  which  have  not 
been  properly  cleaned  thereafter,  and  of  its  being  com¬ 
municated  to  cattle  by  sheep,  though  tlie  latter  are  prob¬ 
ably  not  themselves  affected,  makes  the  following 
statement  of  the  symptoms  during  the  progress  of  the 
malady :  “  The  period  of  incubation  of  the  disease  is 
from  four  to  ten  days.  When  affected  the  animal  gets 
dull  and  prostrate,  shivering  fits  appear,  there  is  costive¬ 
ness,  red  eyes,  moutli  hot,  great  thirst,  etc.  These  pre¬ 
monitory  symptoms  are  succeeded  by  violent  tremblings, 
peculiar  spasmodic  agitation  of  the  muscles,  discharges 
from  the  eyes  and  nose,  costiveness  and  diarrhtea.  and 
sometimes  the  surface  of  the  body  is  cold.  These  are 
some  of  the  symptoms,  beside  which  there  is  often  a  loss 
of  power  in  the  extremities.  This  stage  lasts  about  two 
or  three  days,  having  all  the  appearance  of  a  fever. 
Lastly,  there  is  evidence  of  serious  changes  in  the  blood, 
manifested  through  the  effect  upon  the  nervous  system, 
and  the  animal  dies  in  convulsions.  Those  attacked  be¬ 
come  rapidly  emaciated,  the  flanks  sinking  in.  Some¬ 
times  death  occurs  within  two  or  three  days,  at  others 
not  until  after  a  week,  while  the  victim  may  linger  three 
or  four  weeks.  After  death,  most  of  the  indications  of 
typhoid  fever  in  man  are  visible.” 

- - - — >  — - 

The  great  Cheese  Exhibition. 

The  dairy  interests  of  our  country  are  annually  be¬ 
coming  more  extensive  and  important.  Thousands  of 
intelligent  and  prosperous  farmers  are  turning  their  at¬ 
tention  and  wealth  every  year  into  this  channel.  It  is 
proposed  by  the  N.  Y.  Stale  Agricultural  Society,  to  have 
the  grandest  display  of  dairy  products  at  their  fair  at 
Utica,  N.  Y.,  Sept.  12th  to  15th,  that  has  ever  been  wit¬ 
nessed  in  America.  A  spacious,  circular  tent  will  be 
provided  for  the  exhibition  of  clieese.  Such  cheeses, 
entered  for  this  special  display,  are  to  be  for  exhibition 
only.  No  one  will  receive  a  prize  ;  though  we  presume 
it  will  not  interfere  with  the  award  of  the  regular  prizes 
of  the  Society.  It  is  proposed  that  all  tlie  cheeses  be 
arranged  in  groups  by  counties,  each  bearing  the 
maker’s  name.  This  arrangement  appears  to  have  the 
approbation  of  many  of  the  leading  cheese  manufacturer* 
in  the  State,  and  it  secures  the  active  co-operation  of  the 
officers  of  the  N.  Y.  State  Cheese  Manufacturer’s  Associa¬ 
tion,  whose  President  has  issued  a  circular  to  the 
members  to  come  up  to  the  call.  It  is  safe  to  conclude 
that  the  exhibition  will  add  greatly  to  the  interest  of  the 
State  Fair,  as  well  as  give  notoriety  to  American  cheese 
dairies,  for  all  cheese  makers,  both  of  other  States  and 
Canada,  are  invited  to  unite  in  making  a  display. 


Q68 


AMERICAN  AaRIGULTURIST. 


[September, 


Agricultural  and  other  Fairs. 

STATE  AJSn  NATIOIVAE  FAIRS. 

American  Institute,  N.  Y.  City,  Sept.  I2th  to  Oct.  19th  ; 
J.  W.  Chambers. 

Canada  East,  Montreal,  Sept.  26  to  29. 

Canada  West.  London,  Sept.  18  to  22. 

California,  Sacramento,  Sept.  11  to  16. 

Delaware  Horticultural  Society,  Wilmington,  Sept.  12. 
13  ;  Ed.  Tatnall,  Jr. 

Pennsylvania  East,  Morristown,  Sept.  19  to  21. 
Hartford,  Conn..  Horse  Ass’n,  Sept.  12  to  14. 
HorticoUnral  Exhibition  Am.  Inst.,  N.  Y.  City,  (Gree¬ 
ley  Prizes),  Sept.  12  to  Oct.  19  ;  See  basket  item. 
Illinois,  Chicago.  Sept.  4  to  9 ;  J.  P.  Reynolds. 

Indiana,  Ft.  Wayne,  Oct.  2  to  7  ;  W.  H.  Loomis. 
Indiana  Pomological,  Ft  Wayne,  O,  t.  2  to  7. 

Iowa,  Burlington,  Sept.  26  to  29  ;  Dr,  J.  M.  Shaffer. 
Kentucky,  Louisville,  Sept.  12  to  15. 

Massachusetts  Charitable  .Mechanics  Association,  Bos¬ 
ton,  to  commence  Sept.  26  ;  Joseph  L.  Bates. 
■Michigan,  Adrain,  Sept.  19  to  22. 

Michigan,  Kalamazoo.  National  Exhibition  of  horses, 
Oct.  3  to  6  ;  C.  F.  Kidder. 

Ohio.  Dayton,  National  Horse  Fair,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

New  England,  Concord,  N.  H.,  Sept.  5  to  8 ;  S.  Hum¬ 
phrey. 

New  York,  Utica,  Sept.  12  to  15  ;  Col.  B.  P.  Johnson. 
Ohio,  Columbus.  Sept.  12  to  15;  J.  H.  Klippart. 
Pennsylvania,  Williamsport,  Sept.  25  to  29. 

Vermont,  White  R.  Junction.  Hartford,  Sept.  12  to  15. 
Wisconsin,  Janesville,  Sept.  26  to  30. 

Wisconsin  Hort.  So.,  Janesville,  Sept.  26  to  30  ;  J.  C. 
Plumb. 

COIJATY  ArV»  OTHER  FAIRS. 

MAINE. 

Franklin  Co.,  Farmington.  Oct.  3  to  5  ;  L.  F.  Green. 
Hancock  Co.,  Ellsworth,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

York  Co.,  Biddeford,  Oct.  10  to  12. 

NEW  HAMPSHIRE. 

Merrimack  River,  Nashua,  Sept.  20  to  21. 

VER.MONT. 

Chittenden  Co.,  Burlington,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Franklin  Co.,  Enosburgli  Falls,  Sept.  20,  21 ;  W.  S. 
Ruhlee. 

Rutland  Co.,  Rutland,  Sept.  27,  28 ;  Henry  Clark. 
CONNECTICUT. 

Fairfield  Co.,  Norwalk,  Sept.  27  to  30  ;  Edwin  Hoyt, 
New  Canaan. 

Housatonic,  New  Milford,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

Barnstable  Co.,  Barnstable,  Oct.  5. 

Bristol  Co.,  Taunton,  Oct.  3. 

Berkshire  Co.,  Pittsfield,  Oct.  3  to  4. 

Essex  Co.,  Lawrence,  Sept.  26,  27  ;  Chas.  P.  Preston. 
Franklin  Co.,  Greenfield,  Sept.  28,  29;  A.  DeWolf. 
Hampden  Ag.  So.,  Springfield,  Oct.  3,  4  ;  J.  M.  Bagg. 
Hampshire,  Franklin,  and  Hampden,  North  Hampton, 
Oct.  5,  6  ;  A.  P.  Peck. 

Hampshire.  Amherst,  Sept.  26  to  27. 

Highland,  Middlefield,  Sept.  14  to  15. 

Hampden  East,  Palmer,  Oct.  10. 

Hoosac  Valley,  North  Adams,  Sept.  19  to  20. 
Housatonic,  CJreat  Barrington,  Sept.  27. 

Miilillesex,  Concord,  Sept.  21. 

Middlesex  North,  Lowell,  Sept.  28. 

Miildlesex  South,  Framingham,  Sept.  19. 

Martha’s  Vineyard,  West  Tisbury,  Oct.  1. 

Nanlucket.  Nantucket,  Sept.  26. 

Norfolk.  Dedliam,  Sept.  28. 

Plymouth,  Bridgewater,  Oct.  5. 

Worcester  Co.  Hort.  Soc.,  Worcester,  Sept.  19  to  22. 
Worcester  Society,  Worcester,  Sept.  21. 

Worcester  West,  Ban  e,  Sept.  28. 

Worcester  North,  Fitchburg,  Sept.  26. 

Worcester  Soutli,  Sturbridge,  Oct.  5. 

Worcester,  Southeast,  Milford,  Sept.  26. 

NEW  YORK. 

Albany  and  Rensselaer  Cos.,  Island  Park  near  Albany, 
Sept.  19  to  22. 

Broome  Co.,  Binghamton,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Chenango  Co  ,  Norwich,  Sept.  18  to  20. 

Chautauqua  Farmers  and  Mechanics’  Union,  Fredonia, 
Oct.  4  to  6  ;  Jno  S.  Russell. 

Cattaraugus  Co.,  Little  Valley,  Sept.  26  to  28. 
Chautauqua  Co.,  Sept.  5  to  7. 

Delhi  Ag.  and  Mechanics’  Association,  Oct.  5,  6. 
Dutchess  Co.,  Poughkeepsie,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

Delaware  Co.,  Walton,  Sept.  26  to  28  ;  E.  W.  Kellogg. 
Essex  Co.,  Elizabethtown,  Sept.  21,  22. 

Gorham  (Ontario  Co.,)  Reed’s  Corners,  Sept.  8. 
Greene  Co.,  Cairo.  Sept.  19,  20. 

Genesee  Co.,  Batavia.  Sept  20,  21. 

Jefferson  Co.,  Watertown,  Sept.  5  to  7  ;  J.  Stears,  Jr. 
Monroe  Co.,  Rochester.  Sept.  26  to  28. 

Manlius  and  Pompey,  Manlius  Village,  Sept.  28  to  29. 
Moriah,  (Essex  Co.),  Port  Henry,  Sept.  28,  29. 
Newburgh  Bay  Horticultural  Society  at  Newburgh. 

Sept.  27  to  29.  ’ 

Oneida  Co.,  Rome,  Sept.  25  to  28  ;  H.  B.  Bartlett. 
Otsego  Co.,  Cooperstown,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Ontario  Co.,  Canandaigua,  Sept.  20  to  22. 

Oxford  Agricultural  Association,  Oxford,  Sept.  25  to  27. 
Orange  Co.  Horse  Fair,  Middletown,  Sept.  6,  7  ;  John 
S.  Conkling,  Alex.  S.  Brown,  Secretaries. 

Orange  Co.,  Goslien,  Sept.  6,  7  ;  Jas.  J.  McNallv. 
Oswego  Co.,  Mexico,  Sept.  19  to  21 ;  Abia.  F.  Kellogg. 
Putnam  Co..  Carmel,  Sept.  13  to  15;  C.  M.  Belden. 
Queens  Co.,  Flushing,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Rusliville,  (Yates  Co.,)  Rushville,  Sept.  26,  27. 

Suffolk  Co.,  Riverhead,  Sept.  27,  28. 

Saratoga  Go.,  Springs,  Sept.  5  to  8 ;  J.  A,  Covey. 
Susquehannah  V.alley,  Otsego  Co.,  Unadilla,  Sept.  21, 
22;  Rob’t  VV.  Courtney,  Sidney,  Secretary. 

Ulster  Co.,  Kingston,  Sept.  20  to  22. 

Westchester  Co.,  White  Plains,  Sept.  19  to  21;  Cowan. 
Washington  Co.,  Salem,  Sept.  27  to  29. 


PENNSYLVANIA. 

Adams  Co.,  Bendersville,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Bucks  Co.,  Newtown,  Sept.  26-27  ;  James  B.  Lambert. 
Glenwood,  (Susquehannah  Co.),  Sept.  20  to  22 ;  W, 
Osterhout. 

Lehigh  Co.,  Allentown,  Sept.  25  to  29. 

Mt.  Pleasant,  Equitable  Agricultuial  Association,  Hick' 
ory.  Sept.  27-28  ;  Geo.  Buchanan. 

Luzerne  Co.,  Wyoming,  Oct.  3  to  5  ;  Steuben  Jenkins 
Susquehannah  Co.,  Montrose,  Sept.  20  to  23. 

NEW  JERSEY. 

Builington  Co.,  Mount  Holly,  Oct.  3  to  4  ;  G.  C.  Brown. 
OHIO. 

Ashtabula  Co.,  Jefferson,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Athens  Co.,  Athens,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Belmont  Co.,  Belmont,  Sept  19  to  21  ;  A.  P.  Miller. 
Cincinnati  Horticultural  Society,  Sept,  25  to  29. 
Cosliocton  Co.,  Coshocton,  Oct.  II  to  13;  W.  R.  Forker. 
Clarke  Co.,  Springfield,  Sept.  5  to  8. 

Delaware  (io.,  Delaware,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

Franklin  Co.,  Columbus,  Sept.  6  to  6. 

Fulton  Co..  Ottokee,  Sept.  13  to  15. 

Greene  Co.,  Xenia,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Geauga  Co.,  Burton,  Sept.  19  to  215 
Hancock  Co.,  Findlay,  Oct.  5  to  7. 

Highland  Co.,  Hillsboro,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Harrison  Co.,  Cadiz,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Lake  Co.,  Painesville,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Madison  Co.,  London,  Sept.  7  to  9. 

Marion  Co.,  Marion,  Sept.  20  to  23. 

Meigs  Co.,  Racine,  Oct.  4  to  5  ;  Wm.  H.  Lasley. 
Morgan  Co.,  McConnellsville,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Morrow  Co.,  Mt.  Gilead,  Oct.  3  to  5: 

Paulding  Co.,  Paulding,  Sept.  21  to  22;  F.  S.  Cable. 
Portage  Co.,  Ravenna,  Sept.  20  to  22. 

Stark  Co.,  Canton,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

Summit  Co.,  Akron,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Trumbull  Co.,  Warren,  Sept.  20  to  22 ;  H.  F.  Austin. 
Wyandot  Co  ,  Upper  Sandusky,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

INDEPENDE.V  v  FAIRS  IN  OHIO. 

Claridon,  Geauga  Co.,  Oct,  3  to  5. 

Greenfield,  Highland  (io,,  Oct,  18  to  20. 

Jamestown.  Green  Co.,  Aug.  30  to  Sept.  I 
Richfield,  Summit  Co.,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Seville,  Medina  Co.,  Sept.  28  to  30. 

Conneaut,  Conneaut  Co..  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Kenton,  Hardin  Co.,  Sept.  29,  30. 

Mt.  Vernon, Knox  Co.,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Ottawa.  Putnam  Co.,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Columbia  Co.,  Bloomsburg;  L.  B.  Ru  yrt. 

Eaton  Co.,  Charlotte,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

INDIANA. 

Cass  Co.,  Logansport,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Hendricks  Co.,  Danville,  Sept.  26  to  29. 

Laporte  Co..  Laporte,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Posey  Co.,  New  Harmony,  Sept.  26  to  29. 

Warren  Co.,  Williamsport,  Oct.  10  to  13  ;  1  Bryant. 
ILLINOIS. 

Boone  Co.,  Belvidere,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Bureau  Co.,  Princeton,  Sept.  12  to  14. 

Coles  Co.,  (Charleston,  Sept.  15  to  18. 

Du  Page  Co.,  Wheaton,  Sept.  13  to  1.5. 

DeKalb  Qo.,  DeKalb,  Sept.  27  to  29  ;  S.  0.  Vaughn. 

De  Witt  Co.,  Clinton,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Fulton  Co.,  Lewiston.  Sept.  13  to  15. 

Greene  Co.,  Carrolton,  Sept.  26  to  30. 

Henry  Co..  Cambridge,  Sept.  13,  14. 

Jackson  Co.,  De  Soto,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Jefferson  Co.,  Mt.  Vernon,  Sept.  28;  J.  S.  Bogan. 
Kendall  Co.,  Bristol,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Knox  Co.,  Knoxville,  Sept.  19  to  22. 

Kane  Co.,  Geneva,  Sept.  27  to  30. 

Kankakee  Co.,  Kankakee.  Oct.  4  to  6  ,  E.  Cobb,  Pres. 
Lake  Co.,  Lihertyville,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Logan  Co.,  Atlanta,  Sept.  19  to  22;  S.  D.  Fisher. 

La  Salle  Co.,  Ottawa,  Sept.  26  to  29. 

Macoupin  Co.,  Carlinville,  Sept  3  to  6. 

Marshall  Co.,  Henry,  Sept.  26  to  28 ;  D.  D.  Bunn. 
Madison  Co.,  Edwardsville,  Aug.  29,  Sept.  1  ;  Edward 

AI  Wp^t  Sppi'ptnrv 

Mercer  Co.,  Millersbui^,  Sept.  23  to 28  ;  J.  E.  Bay. 
Montgomery  Co.,  Hillsboro.  Oct.  11  to  13. 

McDonough  Co.,  Macomb,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Putnam  Co.,  Hennepin,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

Pike  Co.,  Pittsfield,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

Randolph  Co.,  Sparta,  Oct.  4  to  6;  Wm.  Addison. 
Richland  Co.,  Olney,  Sept.  28  to  30 ;  J.  W.  Beck. 

St.  Clair  Co.,  Belleville,  Sept.  12  to  15. 

Schuyler  Co.,  Rushville,  Oct.  11  to  13. 

Stark  Co.,  Toulon,  Sept.  26  to  28 ;  Wm.  Nowlan. 
Sandwich  Union,  (De  Kalb  Co.),  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Whiteside  Co.,  Sterling,  Sept.  19  to  22. 

Stephenson  Co.,  Freeport,  Sept.  26  to  29. 

Winnebago  Co.,  Rockford,  Sept.  19  to  22. 

Warren  (bo.,  Monmouth,  Sept.  19  to  21. 

WISCONSIN. 

Adams  Co.,  Friendship,  Oct.  4,  5  ;  G.  W.  Waterman. 
Columbia  (bo..  Portage,  Sept.  19  to  21  ;  H.  B.  Munn. 
Green  Co.,  .Monroe,  Sept.  22  to  24. 

Jefferson  Co.,  Watertown,  Sept.  13  to  15;  Robert 
Tompkins. 

Laciosse  Co.,  West  S<alem,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

IOWA. 

Cedar  Co.,  Tipton,  Sept.  13  to  15. 

Clinton  Co.,  Lyons,  Sept.  12  to  15  ;  Wm.  W.  Sanborn. 
Dubuque  Co.,  Dubuque,  Sept.  16  to  28. 

Floyd  Co.,  Floyd,  Sept,  20  to  21  ;  V.  W.  Baker. 

Guihrie  Co.,  Guthrie  Centre.  Sept.  14,  15. 

Jasper  Co.,  Newton,  Sept.  13  to  15. 

Marshall  Co.,  Marshalltown,  Sept.  13  to  15;  Wm. 
Bremner. 

Page  Co.,  Clarinda,  Oct.  5  to  7  ;  T.  T.  Pendergraft. 
Scott  Co..  Davenport,  Sept.  15  to — 

Van  Buren  Co.,  Keosauqua,  Oct.  5,  6. 

MICHIGAN. 

Berrien  Co..  Niles,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

Cass  Co.,  Cassopolis,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Calhoun  Co.,  Marshall,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Genesee  Co.,  Flint,  Sept.  27  to  29  ;  F.  H.  Rankin, 
Hillsdale  Co.,  Hillsdale,  Oct.  4  to  6. 


Ionia  Co.,  Ionia,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Ingham  Co.,  Mason.  Sept.  27,  28. 

Kent  Co.,  Grand  Rapids,  Sept.  28  to  30. 

Livingston  Co.,  Howell,  Sept.  26  to  28. 

Oakland  Co.,  Pontiac,  Oct.  4  to  6 ;  J.  R.  Bowman. 
Ottawa  Co.,  Lamont.  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Shiawassee  Co.,  Owasso,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

St.  Joseph,  Centerville,  Sept.  27  to  29. 

Washtenaw  Co.,  Ann  Arbor,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

KENTUCKY. 

Bourbon  Co.,  Paris,  Sept.  4  to  8. 

CALIFORNIA. 

Contra  Costa  Agricultural  Society,  Sept.  19  to  22. 
San  Joaquin  District  Fair,  Sept.  26  to  30. 

CANADA  WEST. 

South  Ontario,  Sept.  26,  28.  Pickering,  Oct.  10. 

Pell,  Oct.  3,  4.  West  York,  Oct.  11,  12, 

East  York,  Oct.  5.  Whitby.  Oct.  12. 

Scarsborough,  Oct.  6.  Whitchurch,  Oct.  13. 
North  York,  Oct.  10, 11.  Gore  of  Toronto,  Oct.  18. 
Toronto,  Oct.  19,  20.  Lambton,  Sarnia,  Oct.  5. 

East  Durham,  Port  Hope, -Oct.  3,  4. 


Commercial  Notes— Prices  Current. 


New-York,  Aug.  19, 

The  condensed  and  convenient  tables  below,  show  the 
tiansactions  in  the  N.  Y.  Produce  markets  during  a 
month  past.  They  are  carefully  prepared  specially  for  the 
American  Agriculturist,  from  official  and  other  reliable 
sources,  including  the  daily  notes  of  our  own  reporter. 

1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  THB  NEW-TORK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 
27  days  (Aism’th.  318,000  1,397,000  1,835,000  61,000  141,000  1,975,000 
24  days  last  m’th.351,500  1,424,000  1,352,000  54,000  76.000  1,592,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

27  days  tftis  month,  314,000  1,965.000  2,149.000  103,000  - 

24  days  last  month,  3-24,000  1,376,000  1,155,000  141,000  _ 

3.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

27  days  1865 . 318.000  1,397;000  1,8.35,000  61,000  141,000  1,975  000 

24  days  1864 . 396,500  2,300,000  1,818,000  11,500  31,000  7571000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

27  days  1865 .  314.000  1,96.5,000  2,149,000  103,000  — 

24  days  1864  .  324,000  1,376,000  1,155,000  141,000  _ 

3.  Exports  from  New-York,  January  \  to  Aug.  19- 
Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Oats, 

bbls.  bus.  bus.  bus.  bus. 

18® .  876,996  1,356,272  1,076,306  106,682  51,129 

}®4  . 1,382,530  9,825,517  533.091  405  26,081 

. 1,551,075  9.581,916  9,581,916  377,351  106,875 

1862 . 2,019,540  12,461,086  8,103,203  987,857  24,625 

Current  Wholesale  Prices. 


Extra  Genesee _ •. .. 

Superfine  Western... 


July  19. 

Aug.  19. 

$5  60 

@  6  93 

$6  00 

@  7  20 

6  90 

@11  50 

8  25 

@13  60 

6  90 

®1I  75 

6  80 

@13  50 

6  95 

®  9  25 

7  25 

@10  00 

5  70 

@  6  10 

6  05 

@  6  60 

5  40 

@  5-90 

5  60 

@  6  00 

4  50 

@  5  25 

5  10 

@  5  50 

1  65 

@  1  90 

1  90 

@  2  25 

1  88 

®  1  70 

1  40 

@  2  09 

84 

@  88 

90 

@  92 

78 

@  84 

80 

@  91 

60 

@  61 

65 

@  66 

55 

®  - 

62 

@  — 

96 

@  1  05 

96 

®  1  09 

Nominal. 

Nominal. 

AVheat— All  kinds  of  White. 

All  kinds  of  Red  and  Amber. 

Corn— Yellow . 

Mixed . 

Oats— Western . 

State . . 

Rve . 

Barley . 

Cotton— Middlings,  ft —  @  50 

Hops— Crop  of  1864,  ^  ft .  10  @  35 

Feathers- Live  Geese,  ^  ft.  65  @  67M 

Seed— Clover,  ft  .  Nominal. 

Timothy.  bushel .  3  25 

Flax.  bushel . 

Sugar- Brown,  ?)  ft  . 

Molasses,  Cuba,  ¥igl . 

Coffee- Rio,  ¥1  ft . 

Tobacco,  Kentucky,  &c.,  ?! 

Seed  Leaf,  ^  ft . 

Wool— Domestic  Fleece,  ® 

Domestic,  pulled,  ft . 

California,  unwashed, . 

Tallow,  ft  . 

Oil  Cake— ton . . 

Pork- Mess,  fl  b.arrel . 

Prime,  ft  barrel  . 


42  @  44 

12><@  50 

75  @  80 


.  3 

^5 

® 

4  23 

Nominal. 

75 

@ 

2  23 

2  25 

®  2 

:  40 

lOK® 

153f 

10%@ 

16 

86 

® 

60 

85 

60 

18>4® 

22 

17%@ 

21% 

t). 

6 

@ 

20 

6 

@ 

20 

7 

@ 

80 

7 

@ 

30 

60 

(lit 

77% 

60 

® 

77% 

60 

@ 

72% 

60 

@ 

70 

536 

@ 

44 

25 

@ 

43 

47 

ii%@ 

12% 

12 

(SI 

18 

00 

@55  00 

47  50 

@55 

00 

00 

@31  00 

80  00 

@32 

50 

00 

@23  00 

24  00 

@  — 

.  40 

00 

@14  00 

8  .50 

@12 

50 

17x@ 

22% 

19%@ 

24% 

18 

@ 

25 

21 

29 

27 

33 

32 

@ 

45 

9 

W 

15% 

10 

@ 

16 

90 

@ 

1  50 

1  40 

@  1 

00 

.  1 

30 

(<!) 

1  40 

1  35 

@  1 

40 

28 

H 

81 

26 

@ 

29 

22 

H 

24 

— 

® 

26 

24 

(<4 

26 

26 

@ 

27 

.  1 

00 

(<4 

1  25 

1  50 

@  2 

75 

01) 

@ 

1  23 

»  _ 

.  3 

50 

4  50 

1  50 

@  2 

no 

00 

@ 

7  50 

6  00 

@  0 

00 

143%,  and 

on  Ai 

ugust 

18th,  at 

Lard,  in  barrels,  ft  ft.  . . 

Butter— Western,  ft.. 

State,  ft . 

Cheese . 

Beans-?)  bushel . 

Peas- Canada.  ?)  bushel .  1  30 

Eggs— Fresh,  ?l  dozen 
Poultry- Fowls,  ?i  ft, 

Turkeys,  ?l  ft  . 

Potatoes— Mercers,  ?) 

Peach  Blows,  ?)  barrel 
Buckeyes— New,  ?l  barrel,,,. 
Apples- barrel .  5  00 


li2%.  In  general  business,  there  has  been  increased  ac¬ 
tivity.  Unfavorable  crop  repoits  from  the  Interior, 
especially  in  reference  to  wheat,  have  stimulated  the  de¬ 
mand  for  flour  and  grain,  and  prices  have  advanced 
materially,  closing  in  favor  of  the  seller.  The  demand 
has  been,  to  a  considerable  extent,  speculative,  though 
mainly  for  regular  home  use,  and  for  shipment.  At  the 
close,  the  leading  holders  are  not  eager  to  l  ealize  at  pre¬ 
vailing  rates,  as  they  anticipate  a  further  improvement. 
. . .  Provisions  have  been  in  fair  request  at  higher,  but 

Irregular,  prices . The  wool  market  has  been  less 

active,  but  prices  have  not  varied  materially.  The  sup 
ply  of  desirable  lots  is  light,  and  manufactuiers  were 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


269 


buying  more  freely  toward  the  close . Hops  have 

been  brisk  and  much  dearer,  under  the  reports  of  short 

crops  . Hay,  abundant  and  in  less  demand,  closing 

with  North  River  bale  at  95®1.10  for  old,  60®90c  for 
new,  per  100  lbs . Tobacco  in  fair  request  and  firm, 

Wfew  York  Live  Stock  Markets. — 

Beep  Cattle. —  The  markets  have  received  more 
than  an  average  supply  of  beef  cattle  during  the 
four  weeks  ending  August  16th,  namely :  5,765,  against 
5,146  for  the  previous  month.  Prices  of  good  and  prime 
cattle  are  fully  as  high  as  reported  last  month,  and  are 
undoubtedly  kept  up  by  an  actual  scarcity  of  this  grade 
in  the  country.  Other  classes  of  cattle  are  more  abun¬ 
dant,  especially  poor  and  partly  fed  animals,  with  which 
the  markets  are  continually  crowded,  and  in  this  class 
there  is  a  large  decline,  ranging  from  lKc(®2Kc  per  lb., 
net  weight.  From  the  sales  ending  Aug.  16th,  we  take 
the  following  quotations :  good  to  prime  bullocks,  16ffl 
17>^c  per  lb.,  dressed  weight;  common  to  fair,  13f315c 
per  lb.,  and  poor  to  medium,  9®12c. 

Milcli  Cows. — The  average  weekly  receipts 
of  milch  cows  are  118,  compared  with  98  last  month. 
Prices  a  little  higher,  ranging  from$40f3$75  per  head  for 
poor  to  good  milkers.  Better  cows  sell  $80lS)$100  each. 

Veal  Calves. — The  average  receipts  of  veals 
for  the  past  four  weeks  are  1,769,  compared  with  2,112 
last  month.  The  demand  has  continued  good,  the  re¬ 
ceipts  all  being  required  for  the  regular  city  trade.  Pri¬ 
ces  are  higher,  as  follows :  ranging  from  11IS12X  per 
lb.,  live  weight,  for  good ;  I0}i(a)llc  for  fair,  and  8®9c 
for  common. 

Sheep. — The  average  weekly  arrivals  of  sheep 
are  17,568.  The  demand,  without  exception,  has  been 
good,  and  prices  are  higher.  Good  sheep,  7®7>^c,  and 
common,  6>^®6%c.  Lambs  sell  at  $4X®6Xc  per  head. 

Live  Hog'S. — The  receipts  of  hogs  average 
10,109  weekly.  The  arrivals  are  light  for  this  season, 
and  prices  continue  high.  Good  corn-fed  selling  at  11% 
®12c  per  lb.,  live  weight. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  toe  throw  into  small, 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


Subscription  Xerms  Unchanged. — 

The  present  Subscription  Terms  are  to  be  permanent. 
Any  futui  e  reduction  in  cost  (there  is  very  little  as  yet) 
will  be  made  up  by  increased  expense  upon  the  journal 
itself. — The  Terms  are  ;  $1.50  a  year  ;  four  copies  $5  ; 
ten  copies  $12 ;  twenty  or  more  copies  $1  each,  with 
extra  copy  to  getter  up  of  club  of  ten  or  twenty,  where 
no  other  premiums  are  called  for.  Extra  Numbers  are 
offered  to  new  subscribers  received  this  mopjh,  as  noted 
on  page  296.— ^gg^The  German  Edition  is  now  furnished 
at  the  same  terms  as  the  English. 

Premiinns  lor  Snhscribers.  —  We 

shall  soon  offer  a  good  and  liberal  Premium  List  of  ar¬ 
ticles  desirabie  to  almost  every  one.  Any  names  gath¬ 
ered  and  sent  in  this  month  can  be  counted  in  the  Pre¬ 
mium  List  to  follow. 

Strawhei*i*y  Plants  Coming. — On  Mon¬ 
day,  Sept.  4th,  we  shall  commence  sending  off  the  “  Ag¬ 
riculturist  Strawberry  Plants,”  promised  to  subscribers, 
and  as  premiums  for  Clubs.  If  the  weather  prove  fair, 
they  will  all  be  forwarded  during  that  week.  Very  rainy 
weather  may  delay  finishing  the  job  for  a  day  or  two 
longer.  We  have  provided  20,000  good  wooden  boxes  of 
different  sizes,  to  hold  from  one  to  ten  large  plants 
each,  and  hope  every  plant  will  go  in  good  condition. 
We  have  plants  now  growing  well  which  were  put  into 
these  boxes  during  the  warm  weather  of  the  latter  part 
of  May,  sent  by  mail  to  Grinnell,  Central  Iowa,  and  re¬ 
turned  to  us  unopened.  These  were  sent  thus  as  an  ex¬ 
periment,  which  proved  successful.  The  plants  were 
green  and  ‘  wide-awake,’  after  a  ten  days’  journey  of 

2,400  miles  in  the  mail  bags. - Where  many  plants  go 

to  the  same  person,  more  than  one  box  will  be  used.  As 
soon  as  the  boxes  arrive,  open  them  and  set  the  plants  in 
good  soil,  not  too  rich  nor  too  damp.  Let  the  ground 
be  warmed  by  the  sun,  but  shade  for  a  few  days,  at  mid¬ 
day,  if  the  weather  chance  to  be  very  warm.  Expose  the 
roots  as  little  to  air  as  possible,  in  opening  before  plant¬ 
ing.  More  plants  are  killed  by  chilling  in  cold,  wet  soils, 
than  by  any  other  cause,  especially  after  being  closely 
packed  for  some  time.  The  large  green  leaves  being 


useless,  and  always  a  detriment  in  transplanting,  they 
will  be  mostly  cut  off  before  packing  the  plants. 

Bound  Volumes  oi*  tlie  A^ricul> 
turlst)  from  Vol.  XVI  to  XXIII,  inclusive,  always  on 
hand.  Price  $2.00— or  $2.50  if  forwarded  by  the  mail. 

Oood  Book  Premiums. — Any  person 
forwarding  25  or  more  names  of  subscribers  may  choose 
from  our  book  list  (page  295)  any  desired  books  to  the 
amount  of  10  cents  for  each  name  at  the  lowest  club 
price  ($1),  and  to  the  amount  of  60  cents  for  each  name 
at  the  regular  rale  of  $1.50  a  year.  The  premium  books 
will  be  forwarded  paid  through,  by  mail  or  express.  The 
extra  copies  offered  to  the  subscribers  will  be  a  special 
inducement  to  them  to  subscribe  now.  An  energetic 
person  can  get  up  quite  a  library  by  his  effort  on  a  single 
day  at  any  of  the  County  Fairs. 

Wko  reads  tlie  Advertisements?— 

N.  P.  Boyer  &  Co.,  Gum-Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa.,  think 
that  a  great  many  do.  This  firm  advertised  Chester 
White  Pigs  and  offered  to  send  a  copy  of  their  Hog 
Breeder’s  Manual  free  of  charge.  The  consequence  has 
been,  that  they  have  sold  a  great  number  of  animals,  and 
by  the  middle  of  last  month,  they  had  sent  13,000  copies  of 
their  manual  to  subscribers  to  the  Agriculturist  alone. 
As  this  work  costs  them  10  cents  a  copy,  exclusive  of 
postage,  it  has  been  no  slight  tax.  Messrs.  B.  &  Co. 
.state  that  if,  in  meeting  this  unlooked  for  demand  upon 
them,  there  have  been  any  mistakes,  or  omissions,  they 
stand  ready  to  rectify  them,  if  promptly  informed. 

Bomestic  lutellig'ence. — Under  the  head 
of  “Foreign  Intelligence,”  in  last  month’s  “Basket,” 
we  showed  how  an  article  of  ours  had  been  appropriated 
by  an  English  paper,  and  copied  by  some  of  our  journals 
as  a  foreign  item.  In  the  Country  Gentleman  for  August 
3d,  we  find  an  article  upon  “  Soils  for  Potting,”  accredit¬ 
ed  to  the  Utica  Herald.  This  article  originally  appeared 
in  the  Agriculturist  tor  January,  1864.  We,  of  course, 
do  not  suppose  that  the  Country  Gentleman  would  have 
taken  it,  had  it  known  it  belonged  to  the  Agriculturist, 
and  as  we  have  not  a  file  of  the  Utica  Herald,  we  do  not 
accuse  that  paper  of  producing  the  article  as  original. 
We  merely  allude  to  the  case  to  repeat  that  any  papers 
are  welcome  to  copy  from  ours  by  giving  proper  credit, 
and  to  remind  those  who  have  the  habit  of  taking  articles 
without  doing  this,  that  our  paper  is  copyrighted.  We 
have  allowed  a  great  deal  of  appropriation  to  go  without 
noticing  it,  and  think  it  about  time  to  remind  those  who 
use  the  scissors  so  freely,  of  the  rules  of  etiquette  which 
obtain  among  journals,  and  then,  if  grass  and  sticks  will 
not  do,  we  shall  try  what  virtue  there  is  in  stones.  For 
ourselves,  we  generally  have  more  original  matter  than 
we  know  what  to  do  with,  and  seldom  copy  from  others. 
When  we  do,  the  matter  is  always  fully  acknowledged. 

Out  List  of  Fairs. — The  long  list  of 
Fairs  which  we  present  on  page  268,  has  been  diligently 
compared  with  other  published  lists,  revised  and  correct¬ 
ed  from  the  most  reliable  information  we  can  procure. 
We  regret  that  we  have  not  been  able  to  obtain  all  our 
data  directly  from  the  Fair  managers.  It  is  by  far  the 
largest  and  most  accurate  list  published,  and  will  be  of 
great  value  to  persons  who  desire  to  be  represented  at 
as  many  Fairs  as  possible  with  articles  for  Exhibition. 

Nevr  Poultry  Book. — Entitled  “Domes¬ 
tic  Poultry,  being  a  Practical  Treatise  on  the  prefer¬ 
able  Breeds,"  etc.,  by  S.  M.  Saunders.  This  little  work 
of  104  pages  has  been  recently  issued  by  us — and  we  be¬ 
lieve  it  wiil  be  found  to  be  one  of  the  most  common- 
sense,  practical,  and  useful  works  which  the  poultry- 
raiser  can  have.  Its  low  price  puts  it  within  the  reach  of 
alt.  The  author  freely  expresses  his  personal  prefer¬ 
ences  for  certain  breeds,  as  indeed  he  should,  but  quotes 
as  freely  the  laudations  of  other  varieties  by  their  fan¬ 
ciers. — See  our  Book  List  on  page  295. 

$300  for  a  Barn  Plan. — The  Plans  in  re¬ 
sponse  to  the  offer  of  prizes  for  best  farm  buildings,  made 
on  page  239,  must  be  sent  in  on  or  before  Monday,Oct.  2d. 

A  few  days  grace  will  be  allowed,  provided  the  Editor  of 
the  Agriculturist  is  previously  notified  of  unexpected 
delay  in  sending  in  any  plan.  The  following  named 
gentlemen  have  been  invited  to  act  as  a  Committee  in 
making  the  awards :  Donald  G.  Mitchell,  New  Haven  ; 
Samuel  Thorne,  Washington  Hollow,  N.  Y. ;  Samuel  J, 
Sharpless,  Phil’a. ;  Lewis  G.  Morris,  Fordham,  N.  Y. ; 
R.  L.  Allen,  New  York;  Dr,  F.  M.  Hexamer,  New  Cas¬ 
tle,  N.  Y ;  nearly  all  of  whom  have  favorably  responded. 

Hard  on  Xree  Peddlers. — A  Washing¬ 
ton  telegram  reports  a  decision  of  the  Commissioner  of 
Internal  Revenue,  that  “  where  a  person  purchases  trees 
of  nurserymen  to  fill  orders  previously  obtained,  and 


delivers  the  same  at  different  stations  on  the  railroad 
either  by  himself  or  his  agent,  he  is  required  to  take  out 
a  dealer’s  license  for  each  and  every  station  at  which  he 
delivers  the  trees.  The  same  decision  will  apply  to  his 
agents.”  We  do  not  see  the  propriety  or  justice  of  this 
decision.  There  might  just  as  well  be  a  separate  li¬ 
cense  required  of  common  peddlers  for  every  town  in 
which  they  offer  their  trinkets.  The  result  may  be 
good,  however,  as  it  will  be  likely  to  cause  the  delivery 
to  purchasers  direct  from  responsible  nurserymen,  even 
of  trees  purchased  through  traveling  agents,  and  thus 
diminish  the  swindling  so  largely  practiced  by  some  irre¬ 
sponsible  tree-peddlers  who  take  orders  on  the  credit  of 
a  good  nurseryman,  and  then  fill  them  with  trash  gather¬ 
ed  here  and  there  and  everywhere  over  the  country. 

Doty’s  "lYashing^  Mackine,  of  which 
we  have  spoken  favorably,  is  hereafter  to  be  manufac¬ 
tured  by  the  Universal  Clothes  Wringer  Company,  for 
States  east  and  south  of  Wisconsin  and  Illinois,  as  noted 
in  the  advertising  columns. 

Result  of  tlie  Caiiaiidaig;'iia  Slieep 
Shearing, — His  Honor,  the  Mayor  of  Rochester,  real¬ 
ly,  did  the  farmers  a  very  important  service  in  offering 
the  $50  prize  for  the  heaviest  cleansed  fleece,  in  propor¬ 
tion  to  the  weight  of  the  animal  and  the  time  of  growth 
of  the  wool.  The  report  of  the  committee  under  whose 
supervision  the  fleeces  were  shorn  and  cleansed,  is 
now  before  the  public.  We  have  not  space  this  month 
for  comments  upon  the  lessons  it  teaches.  Suffice  it  to 
say  now,  that  the  prize  is  awarded  to  a  2-year  old  ewe 
in  “fair”  condition,  which  weighed  49  pounds.  The 
fleece  (367  days  old)  weighed  9.85  pounds,  uncleansed, 
and  4.75  pounds  after  scouring.  The  largest  amount  of 
cleansed  wool  produced  in  one  year  was  yielded  by  a 
Cot.swold  sheep,  viz:  7.06  pounds.  We  must  add  that 
this  report  of  the  committee  on  only  15  sheep,  does  not 
conform  to  what  was  published  at  the  time  of  the  shear¬ 
ing,  when  38  sheep  were  shorn  before  the  committee,  and 
the  weights,  both  of  the  animals  and  the  fleeces,  given. 
This  leads  us  to  infer  that  sheep  owners  who  saw  that 
this  report  was  going  to  damage  their  flocks,  were 
allowed  to  withdraw  their  fleeces,  after  the  shearing. 

CcLAWDERS  ! — Xoo  Late.  —  We  have 
heretofore  repeatedly  warned  our  readers  and  the  public 
against  the  danger  of  getting  glandered  horses  from  the 
Government.  Now  we  must  reiterate  this,  and  state  the 
fact,  that  among  the  horses  sold  in  this  city  at  the  Govern¬ 
ment  sales,  those  well  known  to  have  this  most  malig¬ 
nant  and  terrible  disease,  (affecting  men  as  well  as  hor¬ 
ses)  have  been  repeatedly,  and  we  presume  constantly, 
sold.  There  is  not  a  respectable  horse-dealer  on  24th 
street,  who  will  allow  a  government  horse  to  come  near 
his  stable.  This  statement  rests  on  the  assurance  of  a 
physician  and  thorough  veterinarian,  who  also  states  to 
us  that,  within  a  few  days  he  has  seen  a  badly  glandered 
horse  eating  his  oats  out  of  his  master’s  butcher-cart, 
which  was  subsequently  filled  with  meat  for  distribution 
to  families.  Ought  these  things  to  be  ?  The  Government 
might  better  have  shot  every  horse,  than  to  have  them 
spread  contagion  and  death  (for  the  disease  is  utterly  in¬ 
curable)  among  the  stables  of  the  country,  far  and  near. 
Besides,  we  shall  very  likely  hear  of  men  dying  in  un¬ 
utterable  agonies  flom  this  malady, 

Xlie  Harvests,  etc.— The  season  has  been 
remarkably  favorable  to  growing  crops.  Hay  in  all  parts 
of  the  country  has  been  very  heavy,  and  usually  well  se¬ 
cured.  The  yield  of  small  grains,  large  at  the  East, 
never  better  in  the  State  of  New  York,  good  in  Pennsyl¬ 
vania,  and  at  the  West,  though  accounts  are  conflicting,  ' 
we  believe  as  good  as  usual.  In  fact  there  is  at  this  sea¬ 
son,  even  less  than  usual  “  growling.  ”  There  is  a  great 
deal  of  whe.at  on  hand,  even  two  years  old,  still  in  first 
hands  at  the  West.  The  farmers  have  held  on  for  bigger 
prices,  and  may  now  see  how  mistaken  was  that  policy. 

If  the  prices  that  have  lately  ruled,  are  maintained,  it 
will  only  be  by  speculation  and  gambling,  and  the  profits 
of  this  busines,  taken  from  the  mouths  of  orphans,  and 
the  hard  toil  of  the  laborer,  are  not  shared  by  the  farmers. 
Corn  looks  very  well ;  apples  are  reported  a  short  crop 
in  most  localities,  and  it  is  probable  they  will  be  scarce 
and  high.  Grapes  are  poor  so  far  as  we  can  learn. 

Osier  Willows.— We  have  inquiries  about 
the  culture  of  these.  Procure  cuttings  8  to  12  inches 
long,  after  the  leaves  have  fallen.  Set  them  in  spring  in 
rows  3  feet  apart,  10  inches  distant  in  the  rows,  leaving 
the  top  of  the  cutting  level  with  the  surface  of  the  ground. 
For  the  first  year,  at  least,  the  plantation  should  be  kept 
as  thoroughly  tilled  as  a  corn  field.  A  deep,  rich,  moist 
soil  is  best ;  bottom  lands  that  are  occasionally  overflowed 
are  suitable,  hut  they  must  be  free  from  standing  water. 


270 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Septembeb, 


The  Fsiir  ef  the  Annericaii  Insti¬ 
tute. — The  36th  Aiiniiai  Fair  of  the  American  Institute 
will  commence  on  tlie  12th  inst.,  and  continue  until 
October  19th.  The  place  selected  for  holding  the  exhi¬ 
bition  is  the  armory  on  14th-street,  near  6th  avenue, .be¬ 
ing  the  same  building  occupied  by  the  great  Sanitary 
Fair  last  year.  A  very  extensive  and  liberal  list  of  pre¬ 
miums  is  offered  for  industrial  products  of  all  kinds,  in¬ 
cluding  those  of  agriculture  and  horticulture.  Agricul¬ 
tural  and  dairy  productions,  as  well  as  preserves,  honey 
and  wines  must  be  in  place  on  or  before  Monday,  Sept. 
12th.  Fruits  must  be  in  by  Monday,  the  18th;  Green 
House  plants  and  florist's  flowers  generally,  Monday, 
25th  ;  Evergreens,  Fern.s,  Lycopods,  and  out  flowers  on 
Monday,  Oct.  2d  ;  Table  decorations.  Baskets,  Bouquets, 
and  Rustic  stands,  Monday,  Oct.  9th,  and  Chrysanthe¬ 
mums,  Monday,  Oct.  I9th.  Horticulturists  wall  be  much 
interested  in  this  fair,  from  the  fact  that  the  award  of  the 
Greeley  Premiums  is  to  be  made  upon  fruits  there  exhi¬ 
bited.  One  hundred  dollars  will  be  awarded,  each,  for 
the  best  bushel  of  apples,  the  best  bushel  of  pears,  and 
the  best  dish  of  grapes  (not  less  than  six  pounds),  of  the 
varieties  best  adapted  to  general  culture.  The  following 
varieties  of  Apples  and  Pears  were  exhibited  and  exam¬ 
ined  last  fall  and  will  not  come  into  competition  this 
year,  except  from  the  parties  who  exhibited  the  speci¬ 
mens  then,  viz;  Apples. — Hubbardston  Nonsuch,  Fall- 
awater,  Conkling’s  Seedling,  Swaar  and  Baldwiij.  Pears 
Bartlett,  Lawrence,  Duchesse  de  Angouleme  and  Dana’s 
Hovey.  The  fruit  for  which  these  premiums  are  offered 
must  be  exhibited  on  or  before  Monday,  the  ISth  of  Sep¬ 
tember.  Varieties  which  ripen  at  a  later  period  may  be 
exhibited  at  the  rooms  of  the  American  Institute  on  the 
second  Tuesday  of  November,  and  the  second  Tuesday 
of  December,  in  competition  for  the  same  premiums. 
The  following  gentlemen  compose  the  Committee  to  ex¬ 
amine  and  report  upon  the  varieties  exhibited  :  Messrs. 
John  A.  Warder,  Cincinnati,  Ohio ;  Chas.  Downing, 
Newburgh,  N.  Isaac  M.  Ward,  Newark,  N.  J.;  Wm. 
S.  Carpenter,  New  York  ;  P.  T.  Quinn,  Newark,  N.  J.  ; 
Wm.  L.  Ferris,  Throg’s  Neck,  N.  Y.;  E.  Ware  Sylves¬ 
ter,  Lyons,  N.  Y.  Peter  B.  Mead,  N.  J.,  will  meet  with 
this  Committee  in  awarding  the  premium  on  the  Grape. 
The  fruit  for  these  premiums  should  be  directed  to  John 
W.  Chambers,  Clerk  of  tlie  American  Institute,  14th- 
street.  and  marked  “  For  the  Greeley  Premiums.”  The 
charges  must  be  paid  to  the  place  of  exhibition. 

Communications  on  the  subject  of  the  exhibition  are  to 
be  addressed  to  John  W.  Chambers.  Sec.  American  In¬ 
stitute,  Cooper  Union  Building,  N.  Y.  City. 

to  Maiaag'e  a  ISasillcy  Hoi-se.~ 
“J.  C.  R.,”  of  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  writes  to  the  Agricul¬ 
turist,  that  he  saw  a  stranger  open  the  mouth  of  a  baulky 
horse  and  throw  in  two  handfuls  of  dust  and  sand  from 
the  beaten  track  of  the  road,  and  the  animal  obeyed  his 
driver  immediately  and  travelled  on.  We  have  known  a 
similar  effect  produced  by  slipping  a  small  cord  around 
the  tongue,  or  under  jaw,  and  pulling  forward  on  it.  “  J. 
C.  R.”  accounts  for  the  phenomenon  by  supposing  that 
the  dust  diverts  the  horse's  attention  and  he  forgets  his 
baulkiness  for  the  time  being.  The  best  way  is  to 
so  manage  liorses,  that  they  will  never  baulk.  This 
preventive  is  worth  all  the  remedies  in  the  world. 

TSbc  Ksassiasi  Cattle  Plagsie.  (Cure 
Proposed.)— In  an  other  article  we  give  some  state¬ 
ments  concerning  this  disease.  Mr.  Louis  Burstall,  of 
this  city,  sends  us  the  following,  which  is  worth  re¬ 
membering,  for  we  may  have  an  opportunity  to  put  the 
suggestion  in  practice  before  long.  “  Learning  that  in 
England,  tlte  Russian  Epidemic  has  attacked  cattle,  and 
as  it  is  possible  that  this  very  disastrous  disease  may  be 
imported  into  tills  country,  I  take  the  opportunity  to 
direct  your  attention  to  a  means,  which,  in  this  as  in 
many  other  cases,  has  proved  to  be  thoroughly  disinfec¬ 
ting.  Tills  is  Raw  Petroleum,  or  if  it  is  not  to  be  had, 
Kerosene  (or  Benzine?).  But  for  external  use  (as  a  dis¬ 
infectant)  raw  Petroleum  is  preferable.  I  go  so  far  as  to 
think,  that  Kerosene  should  be  administered  internally  to 
cattle,  that  have  shown  the  fiist  symptoms  of  the  Rus¬ 
sian  plague.” 

To  Prevent  Smut  in  Wlicat,— David 
Nutt,  Dearborn  Co.,  Ind.,  recommends  ope  pound  of 
bine  vitriol  in  five  gallons  of  water  as  strep  for  seed 
wheat,  to  prevent  rust.  The  grain  is  soaked  in  it  an  lioiir 
and  sowed  immediately.  The  usual  practii-.e  Is,  to  so.ak 
tlie  seed  in  strong  brine,  and  use  about  K  lb.  of  blue 
vitriol  (sulphate  of  copper)  to  five  g.nllons  of  brine. 
After  the  seed  has  been  in  this  pickle  a  few  hours.  It  is 
spread  on  a  floor,  rolled  in  dry  slacked  lime,  and  sowed 
as  soon  as  practicablo.  The  brine  floats  off  all  the  light 
seed  and  also  aids  the  copper  salt  in  killing  tlie  smut. 

4|iti(;l£  Time  on  WIscat  Soils.— W.  H. 
Marbles,  Allegany  Co.,  Mich.,  writes  witli  reference  to 


our  article  on  Soils  for  Wheat  in  the  April  number,  page 
112;  “Quick  Lime  has  a  very  manifest  and  lasting  effect, 
pulverizing  and  generally  loosening  our  clay  soils.  May 
it  not  also  act  as  a  decomposer  and  absorbent  ?  I  think 
I  cannot  be  mistaken  that  the  crop  bears  drought  better 
where  the  soil  has  been  limed.  It  should  be  slacked  only 
sufficiently  for  spreading,  and  plowed  under  as  quickly  as 
possible.  In  some  circumstances  it  is  a  cheap  manure, 
as  it  costs  .so  little  to  apply  it.”  The  same  writer  speaks 
highly  of  leached  ashes.  In  one  instance  a  dressing  of 
these  (quantity  not  given)  increased  the  yield  of  grain 
more  than  ten  bushels  per  acre. 


Kenovatiiig'  old  Meado'WS, — “R.  C.  J.,” 
Columbia  Co.,  Penn.,  writes;  “I  have  an  eight  acre 
meadow,  which  has  not  been  plowed  for  thirty-five  years. 
About  one  fourth,  receiving  the  washings  from  the  public 
road,  produces  good  Timothy.  Another  fourth  has  grown 
up  with  wild  grass  ;  the  balance  produces  almost  nothing. 
The  soil  is  naturally  good,  neither  too  dry  nor  too  wet. 
The  question  is,  what  .shall  I  do  to  get  it  in  good  Timothy  ? 
Shall  I  manure,  lime  and  harrow  it  thoroughly,  and  sow 
it  with  Timothy  ?  or  shall  I  plow  this  fall  for  corn,  fol¬ 
lowing  with  oats  or  wheat  ?  ’’—The  wild  grass  is  an  in¬ 
dication  of  an  excess  of  water.  The  first  step  is  to  drain 
and  open  the  soil.  Then  a  liberal  dressing  of  bone  dust, 
lime  and  barnyard  manure,  well  harrowed  in,  may  pro¬ 
duce  a  good  crop  next  season.  Or  plow  under  a  dres¬ 
sing  of  lime,  and  top  dress  with  well-rotted  barnyard 
manure,  and  stock  down  with  Timothy,  or  sow  other 
grass  seed  also.  If  done  thismonth.it  will  yield  aheavy 
burden  of  grass  next  season.  The  best  way  ordinarily 
is,  to  plow  and  crop  it,  manuring  liberally  a  few  years, 
and  then  stock  down  again  to  grass,  with  some  g  rain  crop. 


Keepiaig'  Mainirc. — Questions  enough  for 
a  long  chapter. — Geo.  A.  Dudley,  of  Ulster  Co.,  N.  Y., 
asks :  I.  Should  the  droppings  of  the  stable  be  kept 
undercover,  or  exposed  to  rains?  II.  If  under  cover, 
should  not  the  receptacle  be  just  outside  the  building  and 
roofed  over,  rather  than  under  the  stable,  where  it  would 
infect  the  air  above  ?  III.  Should  a  pit,  in  either  case, 
be  left  with  naked  walls  and  earth  bottom,  or  both  made 
water  tight  with  cement?  IV.  Would  an  earth  bot¬ 
tom  absorb  value  to  any  great  extent  from  the  liquid? 

Ans. — I.  In  regard  to  the  first  i  under  cover.  Though 
on  this  point  Mr.  D.  says — his  own  experience  has  been 
that,  “undercover  the  heap  ‘burned’  out  its  vitality, 
while  outside  the  rains  prevented  this.”  This  must  have 
been  because  the  liquids  were  not  led  over  the  solid  parts, 
and  the  heap  was  not  properly  spread  and  trodden 
down.  II.  Much  better  have  the  manure  sheds  outside 
and  with  closed  sides.  III.  We  would  cement  both 
sides  and  bottom  of  any  regular  pit,  but  if  the  manure 
sheds  were  extensive,  would  not  attempt  to  cement  the 
whole,  if  Ihe  ground  was  clayey,  or  a  stiff  loam,  or 
gravelly  clay  loam,  (IV.)  .such  soils  are  sufficiently  im¬ 
pervious.  Sandy  and  light  loam  soils  allow  the  manure 
to  soak  into  them,  often  to  a  depth  of  several  feet. 

Clialliiig'  Haty  asid.  Straw. — Isaac  B. 
Rumford,  of  Penn.,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist :  I  do  not 
feed  hay  to  any  of  my  stock  except  milch  cows,  because 
I  think  straw  and  grain  cheaper  and  as  good.  All  the 
hay  fed  to  cows,  as  well  as  straw,  is  chaffed  to  prevent 
any  waste,  and  to  be  able  to  know  exactly  how  many 
pounds  are  fed  out.  I  find  by  chaffing  corn  fodder  tliat  the 
stock,  except  one  of  my  mules,  wliich  is  rather  dainty, 
will  eat  it  all  up.  We  use  a  one- horse-power  to  chaff  with, 
and  are  sure  it  pays.  I  prefer  chaffed  straw  for  litter, 
because  it  soaks  up  the  liquid  manure  much  better  than 
when  not  cut.  When  the  litter  is  chaffed,  the  manure  is 
in  a  much  better  condition  for  spreading  or  plowing  in. 


l>iS;cIiiMff  MaclsiMes, — M.  W.  Montgome¬ 
ry,  Jay  Co.,  Indiana,  inquires  if  there  is  any  machine  in 
successful  operation  for  cutting  ditches  for  tiles  ?  None 
that  we  know  of.  Many  of  our  Western  farmers  have  af¬ 
firmed  that  the  Mole  Plow,  which  is  drawn  by  a  capslan 
anchored  to  a  tree  or  post,  and  makes  a  round  iiole  2  or  3 
feet  below  the  surface,  through  the  compact  subsoil, 
serves  an  excellent  purpose.  The  best  way  to  cut  ditches 
is  to  use  the  ditching  plow,  pick,  spade  and  shovel. 


Scyllse  Slaarpeiiiaig-.— Chas.  E.Townsend,' 
of  Queens  Co.,  N.  Y.,  writes:  “  The  ordinary  mode  of 
sharpening  a  scythe  wdth  the  dry  rifle,  heats  the  edge  and 
destroys  the  fine  temper  of  the  blade,  the  same  as  the 
temper  of  a  knife  would  be  destroyed  by  grinding  it  on  a 
dry  stone.  By  using  a  round  stone  hone,  and  keeping  it 
in  a  pail  of  waler,  llie  temper  of  the  blade  will  be 
preserved,  a  keener  edge  imparled,  and  with  a  .single 
honing,  double  the  quantity  of  grass  can  be  cut  than 
when  shaipencd  with  the  ordinary  dry  lifle.  The  hone 
should  be  re-wet  two  or  lliree  times  while  whetting  the 
blade,  A  scythe  treated  in  this  way  will  last  double  the 


ordinary  time  ;  and  those  who  try  this  method  of  wet 
honing,  will  be  surprised  to  liear  the  unw'onted,  keen, 
ripping  sound  of  the  blade,  as  it  cuts  through  the  grass.” 
To  which  we  say:  Very  important  and  useful,  if  true. 

Is  Hair  -wortli  saviisg-  as  a  Mamire  ? 
— This  question  is  asked  by  a  Western  Pennsylvanian. 
Had  he  hailed  from  this  side  of  the  Alleghanies  we 
should  have  wondered  at  the  question.  Hair  is  very 
powerful  manure,  being  so  rich  in  nitrogen  (which  forms 
ammonia)  that  it  must  be  used  with  caution,  like 
guano  and  other  highly  ammoniacal  fertilizers.  It  un- 
dei'goes  fermentation  rather  slowly  at  first,  but  if  com¬ 
posted  with  muck  and  the  fermentation  quickened  by  a 
little  barnyard  liquor  or  ho)'se  manure,  it  acts  very  quick¬ 
ly.  Hair,  wool,  woolen  rags,  horn  shavings,  etc.,  contain 
more  nitrogen  than  the  best  Peruvian  guano. 

— When  they  are  not  well  drained, 
better  drain,  and  improve  their  productiveness  for  a  crop 
of  spring  wheat,  than  to  sow  winter  wheat.  In  some 
sections  of  the  country  new  ground  in  process  of  being 
cleared  is  called  “  fallow.”  On  such  let  the  rubbish  be 
burned  before  wet  weather,  all  weeds  and  bushes  cut, 
and  the  soil  well  prepared  for  winter  or  spring  grain. 

Tlie  Ice«lioisse  Question. — “W.  H.  0.,” 
De  Kalb  Co.,  III.  How  to  make  an  ice-house  that  will 
keep  ice— that  is  the  question.  W.  H.  0.  writes  :  “  Last 
winter  I  built  a  house  twelve  feet  square  and  eight  feet 
high  of  pine  boards,  well  jointed.  I  then  built  another 
two  feet  larger  each  way  around  it,  and  filled  the  space 
between  them  with  oat  straw,  well  pounded  in  ;  the 
whole  was  then  covered  with  a  roof  and  shingled  ;  the 
space  under  the  roof  was  also  filled  with  straw,  and  the 
ends  boarded  up.  It  was  filled  in  February  with  the 
most  splendid  ice  I  ever  saw,  all  in  blocks  two  feet  square 
and  two  feet  thick.  I  thought  it  would  last  till  next 
wlnler,  but  here  it  is  the  first  of  July  and  my  ice  all  gone, 
although  we  have  not  used  a  twentieth  part  of  it.  Vl^heje 
have  I  failed  in  the  construction  of  the  building?  ”  This 
house  probably  failed  to  keep  ice  on  account  of  a  lack  of 
drainage,  or  from  a  free  access  of  air  at  the  bottom, 
operating  in  connection  with  no  ventilation  at  the  top. 
Not  a  particle  of  air  should  have  access  below,  and  no 
water  should  sland  where  the  ice  will  touch  it.  The 
walls  are  all  right,  only  twice  or  three  times  as  thick  as 
they  need  be.  The  I'oof  would  be  just  as  good  if  boaj'ded 
on  the  under  side  of  the  rafters,  with  straw  stuffed  be¬ 
tween.  Sufficient  ventilation  would  be  secured  by  hfllf- 
a-dozen  2-inch-augur  holes  in  each  end  near  the  peak. 

I*lg'eons  on  tlic  Fai-m. — Some  one  in  the 
periodical  called  Our  Young  Folks,  very  prettily  expa¬ 
tiates  on  the  wonderful  discrimination  of  the  pigeon  in 
eating  only  the  seeds  of  weeds,  and  if  he  happens  to  touch 
a  planted  crop,  it  is  only  to  pick  up  the  imperfect  grains, 
which  this  wise  bird  knew  would  never  grow’,  but  which 
are  just  as  good  pigeon  feed  as  those  which  would.  The 
writer  of  all  this  pretty  talk  should  have  seen  the  pigeons 
at  our  peas  this  spring.  They  took  them  out  of  the 
ground  about  as  fast  as  they  went  in,  and  as  they  made 
clean  work,  we  must,  according  to  this  writer’s  view, 
have  planted  none  but  bad  seeds.  There  was  one  new 
kind  we  particularly  desired  to  try,  and  though  we  en¬ 
deavored  to  save  it  by  both  dog  and  gun,  the  pigeons 
were  too  much  for  us.  They  got  up  early,  staid  up  late, 
and  watched  all  the  time,  which  we  couldn’t  afford  to  do. 
We  lost  all  our  peas,  and  if  somebody  chance  to  have 
fewer  pigeons  now  than  formerly,  they  must  have  died 
from  a  combined  attack  of  peas  and  bii'd  shot. 

Horse  C3ollar.s.— A  horse  cannot  work  with 
ease  and  without  galling  if  his  collar  fits  badly.  There  is 
but  little  danger  of  a  collar  being  too  small  for  an  old 
horse,  if  it  will  pass  over  his  head.  Collars  should  set 
close  to  the  neck  all  around.  When  so  large  that  a  man 
can  thrust  his  arm  between  the  collar  and  neck,  thei'e  is 
great  danger  of  two  things— galling  and  spi'aining  the 
shoulder  by  heavy  drawing,  or  a  violent  jerk. 

Es’S's. — Store  with  care  in  a  (3ry,  cool  place, 
for  use  next  winter.  Set  them  on  the  small  end  between 
layers  of  any  kind  of  meal  or  flour  in  a  box  or  barrel. 
Pass  each  egg  before  a  light,  or  look  at  it  through 
a  tube  a  foot  or  more  long,  to  lell  the  good  ones.  Bad 
eggs  are  dark  colored.  Good  ones  ai'e  ti'anslucent,  show¬ 
ing  the  color  of  the  yolk.  Pack  the  boxes  full,  so  as  to 
be  able  to  turn  them  bottom  upward  every  now  and  then. 

Hrama  CJrass.— F.  A.  Lament,  Valleeito, 
Cal.  The  grass  you  speak  of  is  one  of  several  species  of 
Chondrosium.  Some  attempts  were  made  to  introduce  it 
into  the  Southern  Slates  some  ycar.s  ago,  but  we  have 
never  heard  with  what  success.  It  is  peculiarly  adapted 
to  sterile  sotIs  where  there  arc  long  drouths,  hut  vve  doubt 
if  it  would  supersede  our  pasture  grasses  at  flie  North 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


271 


Cranberry  Caltare. — After  the  August 
number  went  to  press  we  had  a  note  from  Dr.  Ross, 
whose  article  on  cranberry  culture  we  published,  re¬ 
questing  us  to  supply  an  otnission.  In  his  article  he 
omitted  to  state  tliat  wlicre  the  vine  worm  was  trouble¬ 
some,  flowing  the  bed  in  winter  would  prevent  its 
attacks.  Where  the  locality  admits  of  it,  It  is  well  to 
have  arrangements  to  flow  the  bed  at  pleasure,  as  after 
the  fruit  is  set  it  is  sometimes  attacked  by  an  insect  from 
which  it  may  be  protected  by  covering  with  water. 


Crrape  Trellises  upon  a  llilbsicle. — 

J.  McMurray  asks  if  trellises  upon  a  steep  hill  should 
run  up  and  down  the  hill,  or  across.  The  trellis  should 
be  at  right  angles  with  the  slope,  for  unless  the  arms  be 
horizontal,  it.will  be  impossible  to  equalize  the  growth 
of  the  canes:  the  earth  will  wasli  less  if  they  run  across. 

Aslies  lor  Fruit  Trees.— E.  Presser,  Al¬ 
leghany  Co.,  Penn.,  inquires  “  What  kind  of  manure  the 
ashes  from  furnaces  of  tanneiies  will  make  for  fruit 
trees.  Tanners  burn  their  spent  tanbark,  which  makes 
vast  quantities  of  aslies,  which  they  throw  away.” 
Ashes  from  bark  are  excellent  manure  and  certainly 
good  for  fruit  trees  ;  and  unless  the  ground  is  covered 
with  them  so  deep  as  to  kill  vegetation,  there  is  little 
danger  of  applying  too  large  quantities.  Still,  such  ashes 
are  not  so  valuable  as  wood  ashes,  for  they  contain  but 
a  small  amount  of  alkali ;  hence  soap  makers  consider 
bark  ashes  as  of  very  little  or  no  value  to  make  lye. 

Saving'  Tomato  Seeds. — M.  B.  Pratt 
gives  the  following  as  his  method  of  treating  tomato 
seeds  :  “  Lay  the  seeds  and  pulp  upon  a  dry  cloth,  spread 
them  with  a  knife,  then  lay  another  cloth  over,  and  roll 
all  up  tight,  then  scrape  off  the  seeds  into  a  pan  of  water 
and  wash  out  with  the  hand  all  the  pulp  that  is  left  after 
rolling,  and  lay  them  in  the  dry  cloth  for  a  few 
minutes  ;  place  them  in  a  paper,  and  in  course  of  the  day 
they  are  clean  and  dry,  and  ready  for  sale.”  Another 
subscriber  spreads  the  pulp,  containing  the  seeds,  thinly 
upon  newspaper,  without  washing,  and  allows  it  to  dry 
there.  The  paper  is  then  rolled  up  and  put  away  until 
spring.  When  needed  for  sowing,  the  paper  is  cut  into 
strips  and  planted  (seeds,  paper  and  all)  in  the  hot  bed. 

A  great  Year  for  Toadstools. — Every 
where  around  New  York  City  the  months  of  July  and 
August  have  been  remarkably  favorable  to  the  growth  of 
the  different  forms  of  Fungi,  not  only  of  the  larger  kinds, 
which  are  popularly  recognised  as  toadstools  and  mush¬ 
rooms,  but  of  the  more  minute  ones,  known  as  mildew, 
rust,  etc.  A  friend  informs  us  that  he  found  the  edible 
mushroom  growing  as  finely  and  as  abundantly  in  an  old 
orchard  in  July,  as  it  usually  does  in  October.  Various 
kinds  of  toadstools  have  been  so  abundant  in  the  garden, 
as  to  make  it  necessary  to  hoe  them  up  like  weeds,  and 
such  is  the  rapidity  of  their  growth,  that  the  process  had 
to  be  repeated  the  next  day.  Flower-pots  and  rustic 
baskets,  placed  out  of  doors,  have  borne  large  crops  of 
these  fungi,  to  the  detriment  of  the  plants  tliey  contained. 
We  have  in  another  place  alluded  to  the  general  pre¬ 
valence  of  mildew,  which  is  a  minute  fungus  growing 
upon  living  plants.  This  has  not  been  confined  to  the 
grape  alone,  but  has  appeared  upon  plants  not  usually 
affected  by  it.  We  had  a  nice  patch  of  cucumbers  in  a 
rather  sheltered  spot,  and  the  mildew  appeared  upon  the 
leaves  of  these  and  swept  them  off  as  if  by  fire.  The 
rust  upon  the  raspberry,  which  is  still  another  fungus, 
has  been  prevalent  and  fatal.  Indeed  all  plants  of  this 
low  grade  seem  to  have  perfectly  revelled  this  year. 

Cvarden.  Fdgings  —  InibrmatioM 
Wanted. — W.  S.  Gridley  and  several  others  have 
written  to  know  of  a  good  substitute  for  box.  We  do 
not  know  what  to  recommend.  Box  is  not  hardy  far 
north  of  New  York,  and  there  is  a  great  need  of  some 
other  dwarf  hardy  plant  to  use  in  its  place.  Grass  will 
do,  but  it  is  very  troublesome  on  account  of  its  propensi¬ 
ty  to  run,  and  it  is  very  difficult  to  keep  it  clear  of  weeds. 
We.  have  tried  Cratmgus  Pyracantha,  and  Privet,  but 
they  are  naturally  large  shrubs  and  do  not  succeed  well 
when  kept  as  dwarf  and  close  as  is  required  for  an  edg¬ 
ing.  The  dwarf  Iris  and  some  other  herbaceons  plants 
are  used,  but  they  have  not  a  good  green  color.  An¬ 
nuals  are  too  much  trouble,  as  by  the  time  they  are  large 
enougli  to  look  well  they  are  cut  down  by  the  frost.  We 
shall  be  glad  of  any  suggestions  on  this  subject. 

Tlae  Wistaria.— “  T.  H.”  It  is  not  unusual 
for  the  Wistaria  to  flower  a  second  time,  especially  in 
such  a  damp  season  as  the  past  summer  has  been.  The 
flower  clusters  are,  however,  never  as  full,  nor  as  abun¬ 
dant  as  in  early  spring,  its  usual  flowering  time. 

Altont  1^'aines. — “Inquirer”  askes  if  he 
should  say  Whortleberry  or  Huckleberry.  The  best 


American  writers  use  Huckleberry,  and  English  authors 
say  Whortle-and  Hurtle-berry.  All  these  words  are  de¬ 
rived  from  Myrtle-berry,  and  we  prefer  to  follow  good 
usage  affll  call  it  Huckle-berry.  With  regard  to  Tomato, 
it  is  pronounced  both  Tom-ar-to  and  Tom-ay-to.  Though 
we  were  taught  to  give  the  broad  sound  to  the  a,  analogy 
with  potato  would  show  that  the  long  sound  is  most 
proper.  Where  the  botanical  name,  which  follows  the 
rules  of  the  Latin  language,  becomes  the  common  one, 
it  is  often  difficult  to  decide  whether  the  name  should  be 
Anglicised  or  not.  There  has  been  much  discussion 
whether  one  of  our  beautiful  bulbs  should  be  called  Glad- 
i-olus  or  Gladi-o-lus,  and  an  equal  discrepancy  e.xists 
with  regard  to  G/em-atis  or  Cle-ma-tis,  though  the  best 
authorities  adopt  the'  former.  Stilt  more  puzzling  is  it 
to  decide  what  shall  be  the  common  name  of  a  peren¬ 
nial,  likely  to  become  popular,  named  from  the  botanist 
Michaux,  whose  name  is  pronounced  Mee-show.  The 
plant  is  Michauxia.  Shall  its  common  name  be  Mee- 
show-e-ah  or  My-chorx-eye-a  ? 

A>ou1>le  Apple  Ifilossom. — The  London 
Gardener’s  Chronicle  figures  a  double  apple  blossom  as  a 
novelty.  Scarcely  a  year  passes  that  we  do  not  see  them. 
They  usually  appear  after  the  general  blooming  is  over. 

Plants  Named. — Irene  Cole,  White  Co., 
Ind.  Lamium  maculatum,  the  spotted  Dead-nettle  ;  a 
plant  from  the  South  of  Europe  that  has  been  in  cultiva¬ 
tion  for  nearly  two  centuries,  and  is  quite  as  handsome  as 

some  of  the  “foliage  plants”  now  sold . E.  A.  G. 

Wellington,  O.  A  red-leaved  Polygonum,  which  has 
been  dropped  from  the  catalogues  and  we  have  forgotten 

the  species . W.  W.  Matthews,  Wis,  The  leaf  of 

Celastrus  scandens,  the  wax-work  or  Climbing  Bitter¬ 
sweet,  figured  and  described  in  August  of  last  year . 

W.  H.  Johnson.  Some  plant  of  the  Borage  family  w  hich 

can  not  be  determined  from  leaves  only  . J.  Barnard. 

Hibiscus  Moscheutos,  sometimes  called  American  Jute  ; 
an  account  and  figure  wall  be  found  in  the  Agriculturist 

for  Feb.  1863  . Louisa  Van  Tassel,  Wood  Co,,  O. 

Specimen  not  recognized  from  leaves  only  ;  it  looks  like 

some  species  of  Baptisia . S.  C.  Larkin,  Worcester 

Co.,  Mass.,  sends  a  Helichryum,  or  Straw-flower,  in 
which  the  head  of  the  flower  bears  a  cluster  of  smaller 
heads.  This  is  notan  unusual  thing  with  plants  of  this 
family,  the  Hen-and-chicken  Daisy  is  an  old  and  well 
known  example  of  the  same  thing.  No  other  plant  seen. 

Insects  upon  Insects. — Several  have  sent 
us  specimens,  and  others  have  sent  us  descriptions  of 
caterpillars  of  various  kinds,  which  were  more  or  less 
covered  by  small  while  oval  bodies,  that  some  of  the 
writers  recognised  as  what  they  really  are — the  cocoons 
of  a  parasitic  insect.  It  is  one  of  the  wise  provisions  for 
preventing  the  undue  increase  of  insects,  that  most  of 
them  have  insect  enemies  Among  the  most  destructive 
of  these  are  the  Ichneumon  flies,  a  term  applied  to  a 
large  class  of  four-winged  insects,  which  deposit  their 
eggs  in  the  larvae  or  pup-ae  of  other  insects.  The  maggots 
hatched  from  these  eggs,  feed  upon  the  living  animal  in 
which  they  are  enclosed,  and  by  the  time  it  dies,  they 
have  attained  a  sufficient  size  to  undergo  their  trans¬ 
formation.  The  number  of  parasites  that  are  nourished 
by  one  caterpillar  is  sometimes  astonishing.  A  few  day^ 
ago  we  took  from  our  tomato  vines  the  larva  of  a  Sphinx, 
which  was  almost  completely  covered  with  tlie  cocoons 
of  an  Ichneumon.  From  counting  a  portion  of  these,  we 
estimated  the  whole  number  at  between  three  and  four 
hundred.  It  is  quite  remarkable  that  this  number  of 
maggots  could  have  lived  within  the  caterpillar,  attain 
their  full  growth  and  spin  their  cocoons,  without  killing 
it.  Though  still  alive,  the  caterpillar  was  evidently 
much  weakened  by  rearing  such  a  large  unnatural  family, 
and  will  probably  in  a  short  time  die  from  e.xhaustion. 

Insect  Clneries. — We  have  of  late  received 
an  unusual  number  of  queries  in  respect  to  insects. 
While  we  try  to  keep  the  run  of  those  which  serious¬ 
ly  injure  cultivated  plants,  there  are  many  sent  to 
us  which  are  merely  curious  to  the  Sender,  or  are  not 
known  as  enemies  to  the  cultivator,  which  we  have  not 
heretofore  had  the  means  of  determining  Finding  spe¬ 
cimens  of  this  kind  to  accumulate  upon  our  hands,  we 
have  made  such  arrangements  with  competent  entomo¬ 
logists,  as  will  in  future  enable  us  to  determine  the  spe¬ 
cimens  sent.  The  field  of  Entomology  is  so  large,  that 
our  best  naturalists  in  this  line  usually  confine  themselves 
to  a  single  order.  VVe  must  request  those  who  send  in¬ 
sects  to  put  them  in  boxes  that  will  not  be  crushed  in  the 
mail.  Very  small  ones  go  readily  in  a  quill,  and  a  turned- 
wooden,  or  tin  pill  box,  or  even  a  stiff  pasteboard  pen  or 
other  box,  answers  well  for  larger  ones.  There  are  many 
grubs,  caterpillars,  or  larvs,  which  are  not  known  in  the 
perfect  state,  and  on  the  other  hand  there  are  beetles, 
butterflies,  etc.,  the  grub  or  larva  state  of  which  is  not 
known.  As  a  general  thing,  insects  are  the  most  destruc¬ 


tive,  as  caterpillars  on  grubs,  and  it  is  well  for  those  who 
have  the  opportunity,  to  watch  the  transformations  of 
these,  and  find  out  what  they  become  in  their  perfect 
state.  Tho.se  caterpillars  tliat  spin  are  easily  fed  and 
managed  ;  those  which  burrow  should  be  provided  with 
a  box  or  flower-pot  of  earth,  in  which  to  make  their 
transformation  IMr.  G.  C.  .Morris,  of  Pldla.  Co.,  Pa., 
writes  to  know  if  his  potatoes  are  troubled  by  the  10- 
lined  Potato  beetle,  figured  in  August.  This  beetle  has 
not  yet  been  found  far  east  of  tlie  Mississippi  valley,  and 
we  have  not  heard  of  its  doing  any  mischief  below 
ground.  From  our  correspondent’s  description,  we 
infer  that  the  trouble  is  done  by  the  grub  of  the  common 
May-bug  ...I.  Coburn,  Columbiana  Co.,  0.,  sends  us  a 
very  common  pest  of  the  vine,  Philampelus  Achemon. 
Tlie  “eggs”  are  cocoons  of  a  parasite  and  are  alluded 
to  in  another  item.  This  insect  does  not  appear  in  great 

numbers,  and  is  readily  removed  by  hand  picking _ 

Eddie  A.  Popenoe,  McLean  Co.,  Ill.,  sends  us  some 
galls  from  a  grape  vine.  The  remains  of  the  grub  were 
found  there,  but  so  much  dried  as  not  to  be  recognised. 

Milliiagf  Insects. — A  Ely  wishes  to  know 
the  best  way  of  killing  insects  for  entomological  speci¬ 
mens.  Butterflies  and  moths  are  almost  instantly  killed 
by  letting  fall  upon  their  bodies  a  few  drops  of  chloroform. 
This  rapidly  evaporates  and  leaves  the  insect  witli  its 
colors  unchanged.  Beetles  may  be  drowned  in  alcohol. 
It  is  said  that  Benzine  will  kill  insects  very  promptly,  but 
that  it  renders  their  limbs  so  brittle  that  limy  break  with 
the  least  toucii,  and  it  is  necessary  to  let  them  remain  for 
a  few  days,  to  become  flexible,  before  setting  them  up. 


Still  another  Ciivcnlio  Keme<ly. — 

Mr.  B.  B.  French  of  Washington,  D.  C.,  writes  to  the 
N.  E.  Farmer,  that  he  has  succeeded  in  keeping  the  cur- 
culio  away  from  his  plums  by  putting  a  “  cartload  of  gas- 
lime”  around  each  tree.  It  appears  to  us  that  the  gas- 
lime  must  have  been  very  poor,  or  the  plum-trees  very 
tenacious  of  life.  We  mention  this  as  an  item  of  current 
news,  but  do  not  advise  our  readers  to  try  the  experi¬ 
ment  upon  any  tree  which  they  are  not  ■willing  to  risk. 

A  mew  View  of  tlie  Caterpiliai* 
Question. — It  is  well  known  tliat  the  tent  caterpillar, 
which  is  such  a  scourge  to  our  orchards,  is  very  fond  of 
the  wild  cherry.  A  progressive  farmer  friend  of  ours, 
who  lias  a  constant  battle  with  the  old  fogy  notions  of  his 
less  wide  awake  neigiibors,  Imd  some  wild  cherry  trees 
b.adly  infested  with  caterpillars,  and  proceeded  to  cut 
tliem  down.  Some  of  his  neighbors,  on  seeing  what  he 
was  at,  came  to  him  and  implored  him  to  save  the  trees, 
as  otherwise  the  caterpillars,  being  deprived  of  these, 
would  destroy  the  neighboring  orchards.  Our  friend  kept 
on  with  his  work,  informing  the  anxious  ones  that  wlien 
they  set  apart  a  particular  field  for  weeds,  with  a  view  to 
keep  them  from  the  rest  of  the  farm,  lie  would  keep  a 
grove  of  wild  cherry  trees  especially  for  the  insects. 

How  to  nia.l£:e  didor  Vimeg'sis”. — M. 
Kelly,  Fayette  Co.,  Ind.,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist: 
“  I  have  twenty-four  barrels  of  cider,  that  has  had 
sulphite  of  lime  put  in  it  to  keep  it  sweet.  It  is  now  too 
sour  to  drink,  and  not  sour  enough  for  vinegar.  Do  tell 
me  how  to  make  vinegar  of  it.”  Procure  a  lot  of  cheap 
molasses,  and  mingle  one  gallon  of  molasses,  or  12  to  14 
lbs.  of  sugar  with  ten  gallons  of  water.  First  rack  off 
the  cider  from  the  sediment,  then  add  five  gallons 
of  such  liquid  to  every  barrel  of  the  cider.  Fill  each 
barrel  not  more  than  %  full,  and  place  them  by  the  side 
of  some  building,  covering  them  with  boards  to  prevent 
the  sun  warping  the  barrel-staves.  Leave  the  bung  hole 
open.  A  bung  hole  4  inches  square  is  better.  Or  put  the 
cider,  after  adding  the  sweetening  into  large  open  tubs 
under  a  shed,  covered  with  loose  boards.  It  will  make 
excellent  vinegar  in  a  few  weeks.  Then  fill  the  barrels 
and  put  them  in  the  cellar,  until  wanted  for  market. 

Analytical  Cliemist. — Prof.  F.  F.  Mayer, 
whose  card  appears  in  our  advertising  columns,  is  a  gen¬ 
tleman  well  known  to  us  as  a  competent  chemist,  and  is 
one  to  whom  we  should  not  hesitate  to  commit  any 
investigation  requiring  thorough  chemical  knowledge. 

Catalog'ues,  etc.,  licceivetl. — B.  L. 

Ryder,  West  Franklin  Nurseries,  Loudon,  Franklin  Co., 
Pa.  Catalogue  of  Fruit  trees  and  general  nursery  stock. 

_ I.  W.  Hicks  &  Co.,  Bridgeport  (Conn.)  Nursery. 

General  catalogue  and  special  li.«t  of  vines - Francis 

Brill,  Newark,  N.  J.  An  abridged  list  of  Nursery  Stock, 

including  new  Strawberries  and  20,000  Japan  Lilies _ 

Andrew  S.  Fuller.  Woodside  Nursery,  Ridgewood.  Ber¬ 
gen  Co.,  N.  J.  Descriptive  Catalogue  of  small  Fruits, 

Ornamental  Shrubs,  etc  ,  with  numerous  illustrations - 

The  twelfth  Report  of  the  Ohio  Ponu.logical  Society,  an 
interesting  volume,  containing  among  other  useful  mat¬ 
ter  a  revised  catalogue  of  fruits  suitable  for  Ohio. 


373 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURTST. 


[September, 


Xlie  Hail.’  Worm.— Some  one  has  sent  us 
a  specimen  of  the  Hair  Worm,  sometimes  calied  Hair 
Snake.  It  is  a  dark  colored  aquatic  worm,  about  a  foot 
long,  and  exceedingly  slender  and  hair-like.  These 
worms  belong  to  the  genus  Gordius,  the  most  common 
species,  being  aquations.  They  have  the  habit  of  twist¬ 
ing  themselves  up  in  most  complicated  knots,  and  the 
name  Gordius  was  probably  given  to  them  on  this  ac¬ 
count,  in  allusion  to  the  Gordian  knot.  Among  boys  the 
notion  prevails  that  these  worms  are  horse  hairs,  which 
have  fallen  into  the  water  and  become  vitalized.  It  is 
hardly  necessary  for  us  to  say  that  this  is  an  absurd  error. 


Among  the  White  Mountains. 

EDITORIAL  CORRESPONDENCE. 


Gorham,  N.  H.,  July  24,  1865. 

While  at  Geneva,  Switzerland,  three  years  ago  this 
month,  I  fell  in  company  with  some  English  gentlemen, 
and  the  conversation  naturally  turned  upon  mountain 
scenery,  as  Mont  Blanc  was  in  view  from  our  hotel 
window.  I  was  asked  about  the  “  White  Mountains  of 
New  Hampshire,’’  and  felt  no  little  chagrin  at  being  un¬ 
able  to  speak  knowingly  of  them.  I  turned  the  subject 
as  speedily  as  possible,  and  talked  of  our  great  rivers— 
the  beautiful  Hudson  and  the  Niagara,  and  particularly 
of  the  grand  Mississippi  and  its  branches,  which  I  could 
describe  from  St.  Paul  and  from  Pittsburg,  all  the  way  to 
New  Orleans.  On  this  topic  we  can  out-talk  all  Europe, 
and  “the  rest  of  mankind” — east  of  the  Atlantic.  And 
here  let  me  say,  that  no  one  should  go  abroad,  sight-see¬ 
ing,  until  he  has  been  not  only  down  the  lower  Missis¬ 
sippi,  but  up  as  far  as  St.  Paul  and  Minnehaha  Falls,  and 
also  along  the  thousand  miles  of  the  Ohio  from  Pittsburg 
to  Cairo.  Nothing  will  give  one  a  grander  conception  of 
our  country  and  of  its  majestic  scenery.  There  is 
nothing  in  Europe  to  be  named  in  comparison.  The 
Rhine  has  been  written  upon  in  thousands  of  journals 
and  volumes  ;  and  it  is  well  worth  visiting,  especially  the 
80  or  90  miles  between  Bingen  and  Bonn,  where  the  vine- 
clad  banks  and  the  ruins  of  numerous  old  stone  Castles 
are  interesting— the  latter  from  the  legends  connected  with 
them.  But.  to  say  nothing  of  the  Hudson  and  the  Niagara, 
or  of  the  Ohio  and  its  confluents,  the  upper  Mississippi, 
in  my  estimation  at  least,  far  excels  in  interesting  natural 
scenery  any  thing  found  along  the  Rhine.  But  to  return 
from  this  digression.  After  the  above  tacit  confession  of 
ignorance  respecting  our  own  Alpine  scenery,!  resolved 
to  take  the  first  opportunity  after  the  close  of  the  war,  to 
study  it;  and  I  am  here  partly  for  this  purpose,  and  part¬ 
ly  on  a  tour  of  agricultural  observation  and  business. 

I  have  been  pleased  with  the  ride  up  from  Portland,  to¬ 
day,  over  the  Grand  Trunk  R.  R.  (though  not  quite  as 
pleasant  as  it  would  have  been,  but  for  the  poor  and 
poorly  served  dinner  in  the  Portland  Depot.)  There  is 
better  land  and  a  more  advanced  state  of  cultivation  than 
1  expected  to  find  in  Oxford  County,  Me.  Many  of  the 
meadows  and  pastures,  with  their  meandering  streams, 
graceful  elms,  and  grazing  herds,  equal  the  finest  rural 
paintings  I  have  ever  seen.  Indeed,  I  think  a  fine  oil 
painting  at  home  must  have  been  sketched  near  Bethel. 
Here  we  first  struck  the  Androscoggin  river,  and  thence 
followed  its  winding  course  twenty-one  miles  to  this 
point.  But  space  will  not  allow  me  to  do  more  than  give 
a  few  general  impressions,  gathered  in  my  journey,  here 
and  elsewhere. 

(  Summit  of  Mt.  Washington, 

j  6  o’clock  A .  M.,  July  26. 

Beautiful !  Grand  !  Glorious  ! !  I  had  half  suspected 
hotel  keepers,  paid  writers,  and  enthusiasts,  of  over¬ 
praising  (he  White  Mountain  scenery.  Pardon  the  suspi¬ 
cion.  The  half  has  not  been  told,  and  can  not  be.  It  is 
worth  a  thousand  miles  of  foot  travel  to  enjoy  one  view 
like  this  ! — Yesterday  morning  two  of  us,  with  our  ladies, 
left  the  Alpine  House  at  Gorham,  and  drawn  by  four  good 
horses,  came  eight  miles  through  the  Glen,  or  Vabey  of 
the  Peabody,  to  the  foot  of  Mount  Washington,  and  then 
eight  miles  more  up  the  steep  road  cut  along  the  declivity 
of  the  mountain ;  and  an  excellent  road  it  is,  running 
now  to  the  left  and  now  to  the  right,  in  a  zig-zag  course, 
and  rising  almost  uniformly  one  foot  in  eight.  The  first 
half  is  through  evergreen  forests,  from  openings  in 
which  we  get  occasional  glimpses  of  the  gradually  sink¬ 
ing  vallies.  At  one  point  we  have  a  good  view  of  the 
summits  of  the  five  adjoining  mountain  peaks,  lying  from 
south-west  to  north-east,  viz.:  WashingtoE,  Clay,  Jeffer¬ 
son,  Adams,  and  Madison,  (phonetically  remembered  in 
thisorderby  Winter-Cherry-J-A-M.)  All  these  are  over  a 
mile  (5280  feet)  in  hight,  viz. :  Washington,  6285  feet; 
Adams,  5800 ;  Jefferson,  5700;  the  other  two  each  5400 
feet.  After  four  miles  of  ascent,  the  trees  begin  to  grow 
stunted  ;  then  we  find  perfectly  formed  trees  only  five  or 
six  feet  high ;  then  mere  shrubs  ;  and  the  last  two  miles, 
only  masses  of  loose  rocks,  with  scarcely  any  vegetation 
but  scattering  lichens  and  mosses.  The  road  up  these 
rocks  is  almost  frightful  to  the  timid  and  uninitiated  ,  but 


one  is  reassured  by  the  fact  that  while  tens  ef  thousands 
have  ascended,  no  one  has  ever  received  harm.  The 
scenery,  even  two-thirds  of  the  way  up,  is  grand  beyond 
my  power  to  describe.  “  We  could  go  home  even  now, 
well  repaid  for  the  toil  and  cost  of  our  journey  hither,” 
was  the  frequent  expression  of  our  party.  Before  we 
reached  the  top,  thick  clouds  swept  over  and  around  us, 
shutting  out  of  view  almost  the  road  under  our  feet.  The 
cold  was  so  great  that  our  thick  under  flannels,  warm 
clothing,  and  over-coats,  were  very  agreeable.  We  were 
soon  in  rain  clouds,  driven  so  fiercely  that  umbrellas 
could  not-be  held  ;  and  even  the  wagon-top  was  furled  and 
taken  down  to  prevent  our  being  blown  over.  It  is  need¬ 
less  to  say,  we  enjoyed  all  this — the  very  thought  of  rid¬ 
ing  among  the  clouds  well  repaid  any  discomfort  of  wind 
and  rain.  Reaching  the  summit,  we  found  warm  rooms 
in  the  two  “tip-top”  houses— low  built  of  rough  stones, 
and  covered  with  roofs  anchored  down  by  long  chains 
drawn  over  them  and  bolted  to  the  rocks.  A  storm  on  the 
Atlantic  was  mild  in  comparison  with  the  howling  winds 
and  driving  rain  that  swept  around  us  for  the  half  of  the 
night.  But  a  merrier  crowd  I  never  saw  than  the  fifty  or 
sixty  of  us  gathered  last  night,  in  the  outwardly  rude,  but 
interiorly  comfortable  dwellings.  The  cloud  mist  pene¬ 
trated  every  seam  and  crevice,  but  roaring  birch-wood 
fires  kept  up  all  night  in  the  large  sheet-iron  stoves,  with 
warm  bedding,  dispelled  the  cold  and  dampness. 

At  4  A.M.  we  were  awakened  by  a  bell,  and  the  welcome 
announcement  that  we  might  perhaps  see  the  sun  rise. 
Every  body  was  soon  up  and  dressed,  and  wrapped  in 
cloaks  and  hoods  and  over-coats,  the  w'hole  company 
were  quickly  out,  clambering  over  the  rocky  peak,  each 
striving  to  get  the  highest  stand-point.  The  sky  was  al¬ 
most  clear  above,  but  below  us  the  massive  clouds  hung 
over  the  vallies  all  around,  and  were  still  shedding  down 
copious  rain  drops.  Only  here  and  there  could  be  seen 
the  hill-summits  that  rose  above  the  vapor,  like  little 
islands  in  mid-ocean.  As  the  sun  came  up  from  below 
the  eastern  horizon,  the  view  around  was  like  the  ocean 
in  one  vast  surging  foam.  An  exultant  shout  rose  from 
every  tongue.  “Grand!”  “glorious!”  “wonderful!” 
“  sublime  !  ”  “  charmant !  ravissant !  magnifique  .'”  were 
faint  expressions  of  the  feelings  that  swelled  up  in  every 
heart.  This  anniversary  of  my  birth-day  will  stand  out 
distinct  from  every  other.  I  saw  nothing  among  the  Alps 
to  equal  this.  My  conceptions  of  the  grandeur  of  earth, 
of  the  greatness  of  Him  who  reared  these  hills,  who 
formed  the  higher  mountains  elsewhere,  who  spread  out 
the  plains,  and  hollowed  out  the  bed  of  the  ocean,  have 
never  before  been  so  exalted  as  on  this  morning.  Just 
now  the  cloud-sea  has  sunk  into  the  lowest  vallies,  and 
ceased  to  pour  out  rain.  It  looks  like  little  lakes  scat¬ 
tered  among  hills.  We  can  at  this  moment  look  over  al¬ 
most  half  of  New  England.  I  cannot  describe  the  scene. 
Mr.  Starr  King,  in  his  book  of  the  “  White  Hills,”  and 
Mr.  Eastman,  in  his  smaller  Guide  Book,  have  attempted 
to  depict  it ;  but  even  Mr.  King’s  beautiful  language  falls 
infinitely  below  the  reality.  Reader,  if  you  ever  travel, 
before  the  railway  shall  open  an  easy  route  to  the  Rocky 
Mountain  summits,  go  not  first  to  Switzerland,  but  wend 
your  way  to  the  top  of  Mount  Washington,  and  abide 
here  until  you  have  enjoyed  both  a  storm  and  a  clear  sky. 

Franconia  Notch,  July  29. 

The  Notches,  or  Mountain  Passes.— The  mountain 
^nge  across  northern  New  Hampshire,  is  cut  through 
Worn  north  to  south  by  three  main  depressions  or  vallies, 
through  which  wagon  roads  have  been  constructed. 
Along  the  eastern  side  of  Mount  Washington  is  a  valley 
in  which  the  Peabody  river  runs  northward  into  the 
Androscoggin,  and  the  Ellis  flows  south  towards  Conway, 
entering  the  Saco  near  Bartlett.  The  middle  valley,  seven 
or  eight  miles  west  of  the  above,  is  very  narrow  at  one 
point,  where  it  is  called  the  “  Crawford  Notch  ’’—there 
being  but  a  wagon  road  between  the  precipitous  cliffs. 
At  the  Cra-  'ford  House,  near  the  middle  of  this  valley, 
and  just  north  of  the  Crawford  Notch,  the  Saco  river 
rises  in  a  spring  nea?  the  house  and  runs  southward, 
then  eastward,  entering  the  Atlantic  near  the  south-west 
corner  of  Maine.  At  the  barn  is  another  spring,  from 
which  the  water  flows  northward,  enlarging  into  the 
Ammonoosuc  river.  This  enters  the  Connecticut,  which 
debouches  into  the  L.  I.  Sound  at  Saybrook.  The  Fran¬ 
conia  Valley  and  Notch  are  a  dozen  miles  or  so  west  of 
the  Crawford  or  Saco  Valley.  In  this,  near  the  centre, 
are  the  head  waters  of  the  south  branch  of  the  Ammo¬ 
noosuc,  running  northward,  and  of  the  Pemigewasset 
river,  flowing  southward  and  helping  to  form  the  Merri- 
mac  river,  which  passes  through  Lowell  and  Lawrence 
in  eastern  Massachusetts,  and  thence  into  the  Atlantic. 

The  most  interesting  objects  in  the  “  Crawford  Notch” 
are  Mount  Willard,  from  which  is  a  very  fine  view  of  the 
Gap  and  Valley;  the  Silver  Cascade,  a  most  beautiful 
little  stream  that  dashes  down  the  mountain  side  for 
hundreds  of  feet,  its  broken  waters  resembling  molten 
silver;  and  the  “  Willey  House,”  where,  Aug.  28,  1826,  a 
mountain  slide  buried  a  family  of  this  name. 

Leaving  the  Summit  of  Mt.  Washington,  we  returned 


down  the  carriage  road  sixteen  miles  to  Gorham,  and 
went  by  stage  round  northward  over  Randolph  Hill,  and 
to  the  “  Wambeck  House”  in  Webster,  where  we  en¬ 
joyed  a  first-rate  country  dinner.  Here  we  had  a  fine 
view  of  the  whole  Mt.  Washington  Range,  and  of  the 
Crawford  and  Franconia  Hills.  From  this  point  we  went 
some  fifteen  miles  south  or  sout-east  to  the  Crawford 
House,  over  a  pretty  safe  road,  but  not  a  very  smooth  one. 

“  A  rough,  stony  road,”  we  said  to  the  driver. 

“Yes.  somewhat  stony  ;  but  you  take  the  stones  away 
and  you  won’t  have  any  road  left.” 

Not  a  bad  description  of  many  of  the  roads  in  the 
mountains.  The  48  miles  ride  around  can  be  shortened 
to  7  miles,  by  taking  a  bridle-path,  on  horseback  or  on 
foot,  from  the  Summit  of  Mt.  Washington  down  its  west¬ 
ern  side,  to  Crawford  Notch.  Until  the  construction  of 
the  carriage  road  on  the  east  side,  this  path  was  the  one 
usually  taken  to  the  Summit ;  and  though  rough  and 
steep,  it  is  now  adopted  by  large  numbers  who  enjoy 
severe  horseback  exercise— ladies  as  well  as  gentlemen. 

There  is  no  direct  road  or  path-way  from  Crawford 
Notch  to  Franconia  Notch.  Though  only  a  dozen  miles 
across,  a  journey  of  27  miles  is  required  by  stage,  around 
by  way  of  Bethlehem,  to  enter  the  Franconia  Notch  from 
the  north.  The  most  prominent  objects  of  interest  here 
are  the  Profile,  or  “  Old  Man  of  the  Mountain,”  just 
south-west  of  the  Franconia  House ;  the  Flume,  six 
miles  down  the  valley  south  ;  the  “  Pool  ”  and  “  Basin,” 
not  quite  so  far  down  ;  the  Echo  Lake,  half  a  mile  north; 
and  especially  Mount  Lafayette,  to  the  east.  Starting 
early  this  morning,  I  spent  six  hours  in  going  up  this 
mountain  and  returning,  on  horseback.  The  view  from 
the  naked  summit,  5200  feet  or  a  mile  high,  is  extensive, 
and  exceedingly  interesting,  second  only  to  that  on  Mt- 
Washington ;  while  the  ascent  is  exciting,  to  say  the 
least.  Y’our  sharp-shod  and  sure-footed  beast  literally 
climbs  up  and  descends  over  a  stony  path,  so  steep  that 
you  must  lie  nearly  flat  down  sometimes  and  grasp  the 
mane  to  avoid  slipping  off.  At  some  points,  cross-poles 
are  bolted  to  the  smooth  steep  rocks  to  furnish  climbing 
foot-holds.  Every  man  coming  here  should  enjoy  this 
ride.  Ladies  accustomed  to  horseback  riding,  often  ac¬ 
complish  the  feat.  Until  to-day,  1  had  no  Idea  that  a 
horse  could  climb  such  steep  mountain  sides— those 
which  at  a  little  distance  look  like  perpendicular  rocks. 


The  Old  Man  of  the  Mountain,  or  the  “  Profile,”  is 
an  object  of  great  interest.  Standing  near  the  narrow 
part  of  the  Franconia  Valley,  or  Notch,  and  looking  up 
to  the  west,  you  see  standing  out  upon  the  mountain  brow, 
a  clear,  distinct  profile  of  a  Human  Face,  so  well  set  that 
the  mind  insensibly  almost  endows  it  with  life.  I  send 
herewith  an  original  sketch,  taken  with  the  aid  of  a  glass, 
which  shows  the  rocks  more  plainly  than  they  appear  to  the 
unaided  eye.  The  length  of  the  face  is  estimated  to  be 
about  70  feet ;  yet  as  it  is  seen  at  the  lofty  hight  of  nearly 
1500  feet  above  you,  it  appears  no  larger  than  that  oi 
some  huge  human  giant.  But  from  the  fact  that  the 
mountain  side  is  entirely  inaccessible,  one  would  be 
constrained  to  believe  some  human  handi-work  had  aided 
in  fiohioning  the  features  ef  this  Granite  Face. 

The  Flume  is  one  of  Nature’s  most  curious  freaks.  A 
deep  chasm,  20  to  60  feet  wide,  appears  almost  as  if  hewn 
out  of  solid  rock,  with  perpendicular  walls  60  to  70  feet 
high.  Down  this  chasm  the  water  runs  and  leaps  in  a 
succession  of  cascades  over  a  rocky  bed,  for  hundreds  of 
feet.  At  the  narrowest  point,  a  huge  rock  or  boulder 
seems  to  have  fallen  into  the  top  of  the  chasm,  and  there 
it  remains  firmly  fastened,  though  appearing  ever  ready 
to  drop  upon  the  heads  of  those  venturing  under  it. 

You  will  not  have  space  for  a  description  of  the 
“  Basin”  and  “  Pool,”  and  of  the  “  Echo  Lake,”  a  beau¬ 
tiful  sheet  of  water  surrounded  by  lofty  hills,  which 
send  back  in  a  hundred  echoes  a  “  halloo  ”  or  the  report 
of  a  pistol.  I  go  hence  to  visit  Canada  East.  0,  J, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICUETURISR. 


riS’.  1. — ^DERKICK  AND  BUCKET. 


I^ig'g'ing',  Stoning,  and  Curbing  Wells. 

The  annual  waste  of  manure,  and  of  flesh 
and  fat,  caused  by  driving  animals  to  the 
brook  or  spring  for  water,  and  by  the  lack  of 
an  abundance  of  it,  will  on  many  farms  equal 
the  expense  of  making  a  good  well  once  a  year. 
In  the  summer,  all  the  stock,  and  the  teams  in 
particular,  suffer  for  want  of  good  water ;  while 
during  the  foddering  season,  when  storms  pre¬ 
vail,  cattle  often  will  not  go  to  drink  for  a  whole 
day,  or  even  longer,  because  the  water  is  at  a 
distance  from  the  barn.  Then,  when  thirst  com¬ 
pels  them  to  leave  the  yard,  and  break  their 
own  path  through  snow  drifts  to  obtain  water, 
they  drink  too  much.  On  their  way  to  and  from 
the  water,  they  drop  much  manure,  which  is 
wasted.  The  importance  of  a  good  well  at 
every  barn,  where  water  can  not  be  obtained 
from  some  other  source  less  expensive  than 
digging  wells,  need  not  be  argued. 

The  best  time  to  dig  wells  in  our  latitude  is  in 
September,  before  hard  autumnal  rains  have 
raised  the  streams.  At  this  season  of  the  year, 
those  veins  of  water  only  a  few  feet  below  the 
surface  are  dried  up,  so  that  permanent  water 
can  be  found  only  by  digging  deep.  If  a  good 
vein  of  water  can  be  reached  in  a  dry  time,  a 
well  will  not  be  likely  to  fail.  But,  if  dug  when 
most  springs  flow  abundantly,  the  water  is  lia¬ 
ble  to  fail  at  a  period  when  it  is  most  scarce — 
at  the  very  time  when  it  should  be  supplied  by 
a  never-failing  spring. 

The  next  consideration  is,  whereto  dig  a  well. 
Our  advice  is,  dig  it  where  it  will  be  most  con¬ 
venient  for  -watering  stock.  If  it  is  to  be  dug  in 
the  field,  the  most  suitable  place  would  ap¬ 
pear  to  be  near  the  intersection  of  the  lines 
dividing  four  fields,  so  that  animals  in  each  lot 
could  be  watered  from  one  well,  without  leaving 
their  respective  enclosures.  When  dug  near  the 
barn,  a  location  convenient  to  two  or  more 
yards  should  be  chosen.  Sometimes  it  is  neces¬ 
sary  to  sink  a  well  far  below  the  surface,  while 
in  other  instances,  living  water  may  be  reached 
by  digging  only  a  few  feet. 

For  wells  of  ordinary  size,  five  feet  in  diame¬ 
ter  is  sufficiently  large ;  and  they  can  not  be 
much  smaller  than  this,  as  a  man  will  not  have 
sufficient  room  to  swing  his  pick  and  haridl& 
the  shovel.  If  the  well  is,  without  doubt,  to  be 
80  or  50  feet  deep,  and  to  be  stoned  from  the 
bottom  to  the  top ;  and  if  the  stones  are  bould¬ 


ers  of  irregular  form  and  size,  it  would  be  more 
advisable  to  dig  six  feet  in  diameter,  on  account 
of  making  a  thiclcer  and  more  substantial  wall, 
than  is  required  in  shallow  wells.  If  a  large 
number  of  animals  are  to  be  watered,  or  much 
water  required  for  any  other  purpose,  the  diam¬ 
eter  should  be  increased  to  8  or  10  feet,  for  the 
purpose  of  forming  a  large  reservoir,  in  Avhich 
the  water  can  accumulate.  When  a  well  is  very 
small,  a  large  herd  of  cattle  would  exhaust 
the  water  before  they  all  could  be  supplied ; 
whereas,  there  would  be  an  abundant  supply, 
were  there  sufficient  space  for  it  to  accumulate. 

If  the  well  is  to  be  stoned  many  feet  deep, 
the  stone  should  be  hauled  to  the  spot  before  it 
has  been  sunk.  A  few  years  ago,  we  employed 
a  man  to  dig  a  well,  and  before  he  had  dug  it 
10  feet  deep,  he  struck  a  vein  with  his  pick, 
when  the  water  rushed  in  so  rapidly,  as  to  pre¬ 
vent  stoning  it.  The  water  flowed  in  so  fast, 
that  two  men  were  able  to  lower  it  only  2  feet 
in  half  a  day.  Therefore,  the  well  was  never 
stoned.  At  another  time,  the  water  rose  6  feet, 
as  fast  as  three^men  were  able  to  make  the  wall. 
If  the  inside  is  to  be  lined  with  brick  or  wood, 
every  thing  should  likewise  be  ready  for  imme¬ 
diate  use.  The  location  of  the  -well  being  de¬ 
termined  upon,  strike  a  circle  5  or  6  feet  in  di¬ 
ameter,  which  is  as  large  as  is  needed,  and  mark 
it  deeply  and  accurately  with  a  shovel  or  pick¬ 
ax,  leaving  the  outer  edge  firm  and  well  defined. 

The  first  12  or  14  feet  of  earth  may  best  be 
thrown  out  with  shovels,  by  making  a  platform 
5  or  6  feet  below  the  surface,  from  which  a  man 
shovels  the  earth  to  the  surface,  as  fast  as  it  is 
thrown  up  to  him.  When  a  well  is  to  be  sunk 
to  a  greater  depth,  one  man  with  a  horse  can 
haul  up  the  dirt  with  great  ease,  by  erecting 
three  poles  over  the  w^ell,  as  represented  by 
figure  1.  A  strong  stake,  having  a  large  2-inch 
pin  through  the  bottom  of  it,  horizontally, 
should  be  set  firmly  in  the  ground,  so  that  a 
horse  can  not  pull  it  up.  Then  he  will  need  no 
one  to  lead  him.  This  stake  or  post  must  not 
be  placed  beyond  the  foot  of  one  of  the  poles, 
for  the  tendency  would  then  be  to  draw  the 
tripod  over.  At  this  stake  a  block  or  pulley  is 
fixed,  and  a  rope  passes  through  it  and  over  a 
pulley  near  the  top  of  the  poles,  thence  around 
another  at  the  bail  of  the  bucket,  and  the  rope 
should  be  tied  near  the  upper  end  of  the  poles. 
The  upper  pulley  should  be  suspended  at  such 
a  bight  that  the  dirt  bucket  may  rise  just  high' 
enough  to  be  emptied  into  a  wheelbarrow 
when  the  blocks  come  together.  Thus  the  horse 
may  continue  to  pull  with  all  his  might,  with¬ 
out  being  able  to  get  away,  or  to  hinder  the 
workman  who  manages  the  bucket.  By  having 
a  wheelbarrow  near,  the  earth  may  be  turned 
quickly  into  it,  before  the  horse  can  back  up. 
When  a  bucket  is  drawn  up  in  this  manner,  it 
rises  only  half  as  fast  as  the  horse  travels ;  and 
he  can  with  ease  elevate  three  or  four  hundred 
pounds  at  a  time. 

The  best  way  to  make  a  bucket  is,  to  saw  off 
about  one  third  the  length  of  a  strong  barrel ; 
nail  a  board  across  the  bottom  on  the  outside 
so  that  stones  dropping  in  will  not  break  the 
head  through ;  put  on  a  strong  iron  hoop  six 
inches  above  the  middle  of  the  bucket  and  at¬ 
tach  an  iron  bail  at  this  point  with  half-inch 
bolts,  passing  through  the  bail,  hoop  and  staves, 
or  with  hooks  and  eyes.  A  small  lad  will  be  able 
to  empty  a  large  bucket  hung  in  this  manner. 

DIGGING  AND  CURBING  -WELDS  IN  QUICK  SAND. 

Whenever  there  is  danger  that  the  earth  will 
cave  in,  it  becomes  necessary  to  curb  the  sides 
as  fast  as  the  well  is  sunk.  To  do  this,  dig  out 


27B 


the  earth  in  a  true  circle,  plumbing  accurately 
the  sides  of  the  well,  and  when  it  is  6  to  12 
feet  deep,  set  up  pieces  of  2-inch  plank,  6  or  8 
inches  wide,  as  represented  by  figure  2,  which 
illustrates  an  end  view  of  the  staves.  Set  up 
one  stave  perpendicularly,  and  pin  it  fast  to  the 
earth  with  wooden  pins,  at  top  and  bottom,  as 
showm  in  the  illustration.  Then  set  up  3  or  4 
more,  nailing  them  together  at  the  edges.  Pin 
every  fifth  stave,  to  keep  the  curb  from  settling 
down,  when  it  is  undermined.  After  the  last 
stave  lias  been  set  up,  drive  in  thin  ivedges  be¬ 
tween  the  staves,  in  four  places  if  possible,  to 
keep  it  tight.  The  staves  will  soon  swell  on 
the  outside,  and  the  chinks  between  them  will 
fill  up  with  sand  and  gravel,  and  thus  they  -will 
form  an  arch  that  will  resist  a  much  greater 
pressure  than  will  ever  occur  at  any  part  of  the 
curbing.  Now  dig  six  feet  deeper,  if  it  is  safe 
to  sink  it  so  far,  and  set  up  another  course  of 
staves  under  the  first,  fastening  them  as  previ¬ 
ously  directed.  In  this  war',  the  well  may  be 
sunk  and  curbed  -ivith  great  dispatch  and  perfect 
safety  to  any  desirable  depth.  No  other  curbing- 
will  be  required  until  the  staves  have  decayed. 


Fig-.  2. — WOODEN  CUBBING. 


Still,  the  whole  may  better  be  stoned  or  bricked 
up  at  once  on  the  inside  of  the  curbing. 

STONING  AND  PLASTERING  WELLS. 

When  wells  are  sunk  through  sufficiently 
compact  ground,  such  as  will  not  cave  in,  the 
sides  may  be  plastered  -n'ith  two  thick  coats  of 
-water-lime  cement,  from  the  bottom  to  within 
4  or  5  feet  of  the  top,  when  there  should  be  an 
offset  for  a  brick  or  stone  -wall  to  rest  upon, 
extending  to  the  surface  of  the  ground.  Sink 
such  a  well  4  feet  deep,  7  or  8  feet  in  diam¬ 
eter  ;  then,  dig  it  6  feet  deeper,  5  feet  in  diam¬ 
eter,  and  plaster  the  surface.  After  tliis,  dig 
and  plaster  about  6  feet,  and  so  finish  succes¬ 
sive  sections,  until  permanent  water  is  found. 
This  will  be  as  good  as  stone,  if  well  done.  If 
veins  of  water  break  through  the  green  cement, 
drive  a  circular  piece  of  tin  or  wood,  a  few 
inches  long  into  the  plaster  and  earth,  just  be¬ 
low  the  issue  of  the  water,  to  keep  it  from  run¬ 
ning-  down  and  washing  off  the  mortar.  Where 
-stone  are  abundant  it  is  economical  to  use  them 
instead  of  cement.  If  bricks  are  used  in¬ 
stead  of  stone,  they  should  be  well  burned, 
and  made  wider  at  one  end  than  the  other, 
so  as  to  fit  the  curve  of  the  well  as  repre¬ 
sented  by  fig.  3,  at  B.  Water  will  find  its  way 
between  the  staves  at  the  ends,  and  between  the 
bricks  which  should  not  be  laid  in  mortar. 

There  is  a  right  way  and  a  wrong  way  to 
stone  a  well.  The  object  is  to  build  a  strong 
wall  that  will  not  fall  inward,  instead  of  a  wall 
having  a  smooth  face,  which  is  of  little  account. 
Figure  3,  illustrates  the  manner  of  placing  the 
stones.  In  laying  up  a  common  wall  the  large 


AMKRTCAK  ACxRTCJ^T.TIJRIST. 


[September, 


374 


ends  and  face  sides  are  laid  in  front.  But,  when 
stoning  a  well,  the  large  ends  are  placed  in  the 
opposite  direction,  so  that  every  course  of  stone 
on  the  face  or  inside,  will  form  an  arch.  The 
back  side  is  leveled  up  with  small  stone,  and 
much  care  should  he  exercised  to  place  many 


Fig.  3. — STONE  AND  BKICK  WALLS  TO  WELLS. 


small  ones  against  the  earth,  instead  of  packing 
in  large  ones,  to  keep  the  dirt  from  washing 
down  to  the  bottom  of  the  well.  If  gravel  can 
be  obtained  conveniently,  it  is  a  good  practice 
to  fill  all  the  interstices  between  the  stones  with 
it.  Place  a  wide  board  across  the  wall  to  stand 
on,  when  laying  the  brick  or  stone.  Marks  on 
each  edge  of  it,  will  serve  as  guides  for  carrying 
up  the  face  of  the  wall  true.  Brick  and  stone 
may  be  lowered  by  the  horse  and  bucket,  in  the 
same  way  as  hauling  up  the  dirt.  There  is  no 
quicker  way  to  draw  the  water  from  a  well, 
when  cleaning  it  out,  than  to  make  a  valve  over 
a  large  hole  in  the  bottom  of  a  barrel,  and  draw 
up  a  barrelful  at  once  with  a  horse.  If  there  is 
room  for  a  barrel  to  dip,  a  valve  is  not  neces¬ 
sary.  The  stone  or  brick  should  be  laid  in  ce¬ 
ment,  for  at  least  three  feet  down  from  the  sur¬ 
face,  to  exclude  worms,  reptiles  and  mice. 


Hints  about  County  Fairs. 


We  hope  the  managers  of  county  and  other 
fairs,  are  awake  to  the  fact  that  their  meetings 
are  to  be  unusually  interesting  this  year.  Our 
farmer  soldiers  are  home  again.  Tliey  are  tak¬ 
ing  hold,  many  of  them,  of  the  accustomed  work 
of  the  farm  with  new  zest,  and  their  interest 
to  see  their  companions  in  arms — and  those 
from  whom  they  have  been  separated  in  different 
army  corps  and  divisions,  fighting  for  the  same 
flag,  will  lead  them  to  seek  all  such  gatherings. 
Every  body  who  loves  the  soldiers  will  re¬ 
joice  to  be  present  at  these  reunions,  where  the 
old  campaigns  will  be  fought  over  again,  and 
anecdotes  of  those  that  have  fallen  will  keep 
them  alive  in  our  grateful  memories.  Doubt¬ 
less  also  there  will  be  a  division  of  the  exhib¬ 
ition  halls  set  apart  for  relics  from  the  South, 
and  from  the  battle  fields.  This  is  one  feature, 
which  will  “  draw.”  Besides,  we  all  want  to  see 
those  southern  horses  brought  home  by  the  offi¬ 
cers — those  thin  necked,  smooth  limbed,  light, 
lithe  creatures,  that  will  jump  a  five  rail  fence, 
or  a  12-foot  ditcli  as  easily  apparently  as  thej' 
will  walk  iicross  the  meadow.  Then,  too,  this  has 
been  a  very  prosperous  season.  Vegetables  and 
fruits,  not  cut  off  early  by  insects,  have  done 
their  best  to  help  to  make  a  good  show,  and  the 
moist  season  has  favored  a  rapid  growth  and 


large  size.  The  great  interest  in  fine  wool 
sheep  has  chiefly  arisen  since  the  last  show, 
and  this  is  another  subject  of  especial  attractive¬ 
ness.  The  great  advance  in  wages  of  farm 
help  awakens  farmers  more  than  ever  to  the 
necessity  of  knowing  how  machinery  may  do 
the  work  for  less,  and  how  impi’oved  implements 
will  lighten  labor,  save  time,  and  add  to  comfort. 

Many  societies  are  preparing  to  hold  fairs  this 
season,  which  have  not  done  so  for  several 
years,  and  it  is  no  less  true  that  a  great  many 
people  will  this  year  go  to  the  fairs,  who  have 
not  seen  an  agricultural  and  industrial  exhibition 
for  a  long  time.  The  managers  have  duties  to 
their  exhibitors  and  visitors,  and  those  who  at¬ 
tend  the  show  to  see  what  tbej'  can,  have  duties 
to  themselves  and  their  families. 

HOW  A  CATTLE  SHOW  AND  FAIR  SHOULD  BB 
CONDUCTED. 

The  list  of  premiums  and  order  of  exercises 
should  be  published  and  distributed  free,  or  in 
some  form  easily  accessible  to  all.  The  com¬ 
mittees  and  judges  should  be  instructed  to  act 
promptly,  and  if  they  do  not,  a  new  committee 
should  be  at  once  appointed  who  will  act.  Some 
indication  of  awards  should  be  placed  upon  prize 
animals  and  articles  as  soon  as  possible,  after 
they  are  made,  to  give  additional  interest  and  in¬ 
struction  to  visitor’s.  It  is  most  important  that : 

No  unworthy  article  should  receive  any  prize. 

No  prize  should  ever  he  given  to  ‘■'■encourage" 
a  worthy  exhibitor,  who  has  taken  pains  to  bring 
an  inferior  article,  and  will  be  disappointed  if 
he  does  not  get  a  prize. 

No  prize  should  ever  be  given  to  ‘■'•propitiate" 
an  influential  patron,  who  will  be  offended  if 
his  articles  are  not  noticed. 

No  prize  should  ever  he  withheld  f  rom  an  ex¬ 
hibitor,  because  he  is  taking  too  many  prizes. 
No  matter  if  one  man  sweeps  every  prize  offered 
by  the  society  (unless  there  is  some  rule  to  the 
contrary).  lu  every  respect  the  good  faith  of 
the  society  should  be  considered  sacred,  and  in 
the  keeping  of  every  committee  man. 

The  executive  committee  of  a  society  should 
be  constantly  on  the  lookout,  to  secure  honest 
reports;  and  should  a  judge  be  known  to 
violate  rules,  in  passing  judgement  on  his  own 
article,  and  warping  the  judgement  of  his  asso¬ 
ciates,  or  allowing  himself  to  be  biased,  his 
place  should  be  at  once  supplied  by  another 
person.  This  committee  should  spend  part  of 
each  day  in  listening  to  complaints,  and  in 
doing  what  they  can  to  right  wrongs. 

The  animals  and  articles  exhibited,  should 
not  be  crowded,  but  well  exposed  to  view  and 
careful  inspection.  And  exhibitors  should  have 
the  fullest  opportunity  consistent  with  the  rights 
of  others  to  explain  and  show  off  their  articles. 
If  an  exhibitor  can  not  be  present  in  person,  or 
by  an  agent,  it  is  most  important,  not  only  for 
himself,  but  for  the  gratification  of  visitors,  for 
him  to  have  cards,  or  circulars,  to  be  taken  by 
every  one.  In  cases  where  the  show  lasts  for 
several  days,  convocations  in  the  evenings  of 
all  interested  in  participating  in  an  agricultural, 
or  pomological  talk,  will  be  found  quite  well 
attended.  These  meetings  are  usually  very  in¬ 
teresting,  if  they  are  only  made  free  and  con¬ 
versational,  and  some  common  sense  man  has 
charge  of  them.  Tliey  must  be  seen  to,  and  seen 
through,  by  some  officer  of  the  society.  The 
mutual  admiration  often  run  into,  may  be 
healthfully  varied  by  introducing  subjects  which 
will  call  uj)  active,  but  not  acrimonious  argu¬ 
ment;  and  nobody  should  speak  muoh,  or  more 
than  five  minutes  at  a  time,  and  to  the  point, 


Visitors’  Privileges. — We  consider  it  our 
right,  when  we  visit  an  agricultural  fair,  to  ask 
questions,  and  to  see  every  thing.  If  the  people 
are  not  there  to  show  off  their  machines,  we  are 
very  apt  to  set  a  bad  example  and  work  them 
ourselves.  Why  not  ?  It  is  exactly  what  we 
pay  the  entrance  fee  for;  and  no  board  of 
managers  ought  to  consent  to  have  a  show  of 
the  mere  boxed  outsides  of  things,  which  can 
only  be  appreciated  when  in  operation.  Ex¬ 
hibitors  often  refrain  from  showing  their  articles 
at  wmrk,  because  they  will  not  thus  compare 
favorably  with  others.  The  visitor  ought  to 
know  what  he  w’auts  to  see  most,  before  he 
enters ;  then  when  he  first  goes  in,  he  should 
make  a  business  of  finding  out  -n  here  the  things 
are  without  stopping  to  look  at  them  much; 
then  selecting  the  most  important,  take  each  of 
them  in  rotation,  and  study  each  subject 
thoroughly.  The  way  to  do  this  and  come  to 
quick  and  correct  conclusions,  is  a  real  gift. 
One  man  will  see  every  good  point  in  a  bull,  or 
take  the  fine  lines  of  a  plow  into  his  eye  at  a 
glance  almost;  or  with  one  or  tivo  pointed 
questions,  test  both  the  weakness,  or  strength 
of  the  exhibitor  and  of  his  machine  at  the  same 
time.  Such  a  man  is  a  most  desirable  companion 
to  one  going  through  a  show  in  the  way  Mm 
speak  of,  but  the  best  company  one  can  have,  is 
an  intelligent  boy,  and  if  one  has  none  of  his 
own,  he  can  generally  borroM’  one.  A  man  Mill 
meet  many  acquaintances,  and  his  ivhole  day 
will  be  Mmsted,  or  rather  the  object  he  has  es¬ 
pecially  in  view  M'ill  be  lost,  unless  he  is  ready 
to  excuse  himself  and  make  appointments  for 
some  future  time.  The  club  meeting,  if  there 
is  to  be  one  in  the  evening,  is  an  excellent 
rendezvous,  and  a  man  may  make  a  dozen 
social  appointments  for  the  hour  before  it  begins. 

When  one  has  seen  what  is  most  important, 
and  his  wife  and  young  children  have  made  a 
survey  of  the  knitting  M'ork,  and  have  seen  the 
outsides  of  things  by  themselves,  (they  •will  al- 
M'ays  prefer  to  be  left  alone  for  an  hour  or  turn,) 
then  let  the  good  husband  and  father  take  them, 
and  see  that  they  see  all  that  is  worth  seeing. 
Above  all  keep  aM'ay  from  the  noisy  hubbub  of 
rough-scuff,  pick-pockets  and  profaniw,  that 
crowd  about  the  trotting  course.  It  is  very 
pleasant  before  the  set  trots  and  matches  come 
off,  to  go  to  the  seats,  or  from  any  good  position, 
watch  the  promiscuous  driving  upon  a  trotting 
course.  There  will  always  be  some  very  beauti¬ 
ful  “turn-outs” — fine  horses,  shoiving  elegant 
style  and  brilliant  action,  Mdiich  it  is  very  well 
to  see.  And  if  it  can  be  done  without  wasting 
half  a  day,  it  is  quite  M'orth  while  to  see  a 
well  contested  trotting  matcli ;  but  on  the  M'hole 
the  exercises  of  the  trotting  course,  however  valu¬ 
able  their  results  in  improving  horses  (which 
we  do  not  believe  in),  are  the  least  instructive 
and  most  time-M'astful  part  of  the  whole  shoM'. 


Keclaiming  Waste  Ground. 


There  are  scores  of  acres  of  as  valuable  land 
as  can  be  found  in  our  country,  overgroM’u 
■with  weeds  and  worthless  bushes.  We  ofteu 
see  land  M’hich  could  not  be  purchased  for  one 
thousand  dollars  per  acre,  strips  of  uncultivated 
land  along  the  higlnvay  and  between  fiirms,  and 
even  in  the  midst  of  a  farm  close  to  tlie  fences 
where  elder  bushes,  blackberry  bushes,  milk¬ 
weeds  and  other  pernicious  plants  have  rooted 
out  almost  the  last  spear  of  grass,  and  are  Ix^ar- 
ing  undisputed  swa}'.  Such  things  are  disfigur¬ 
ing  blotches  on  the  face  of  a  nice  farm,  as  M'ell 
as  a  reproach  to  any  farmer.  The  land  where 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICUT^TIJRIST. 


Q75 


such  pests  flourish  from  year  to  year  is  rich  and 
would  pay  the  expense  of  cultivation,  and  pro¬ 
duce  at  first  more  valuable  crops  than  that  on 
each  side  of  it ;  and  it  ought  to  be  reclaimed, 
and  the  unsightly  weeds  and  bushes  should  be 
exterminated,  for  the  sake  of  appearances,  if  for 
nothing  more.  This  job  is  best  done  in  August 
■or  early  in  September  rather  than  not  at  all. 
Where  it  is  not  found  convenient  or  practicable 
to  plow  such  uncultivated  strips  of  ground, 
mow  every  thing  as  closely  as  possible,  collect 
it  in  heaps  and  burn  it;  if  the  bushes  are  small, 
•they  maybe  cut  with  a  short,  stiff' grass  scythe; 
but  if  they  are  large,  use  a  bush  scythe.  Let 
every  thing  be  cut  close  to  the  ground.  Then 
harrow  thoroughly  and  stock  down  with  grass 
seed.  Sow  Orchard  and  Kentuck}’’  blue  grass 
seed,  so  that  the  grass  will  be  fit  to  mow  for 
hay  next  season,  before  weeds  have  attained  a 
large  growth.  If  the  ground  can  be  plowed, 
remove  the  fence  when  it  ean  be  done  with  lit¬ 
tle  labor,  and  put  a  sharp  point  and  a  sharp, 
strong  coulter  on  a  good  plow,  and  attach  a 
chain  for  hauling  the  weeds  beneath  the  turning- 
furrow  slice,  as  shown  in  an  article  in  last  month’s 
paper.  Hitch  on  a  strong  double  team,  and 
break  it  all  up  as  deep  as  the  plow  will  turn 
well,  and  the  team  able  to  draw  it.  Always 
plow  around  such  plots  instead  of  beginning  in 
the  middle,  thus  forming  a  ridge  where  the  roots 
wilt  not  be  disturbed.  Harrow  several  times, 
and  sow  at  the  rate  of  half  a  bushel  of  buck¬ 
wheat  per  acre.  If  the  work  is  properly  done, 
weeds  and  bushes  will  give  little  trouble  next 
season,  if  the  ground  is  occupied  with  some 
hoed  crop.  If,  from  some  cause,  such  as  wet 
weather  after  plowing,  or  the  abundance  of  rose 
briars,  or  brambles,  the  weeds  spring  up  very 
badly  in  .spring,  another  application  of  the  buck¬ 
wheat  after  plowing  will  leave  the  land  in  good 
condition  by  mid-summer. 


Burying'  Bees. 

BY  BIBWELI,  BKOS.,  OF  MINNESOTA. 


In  our  previous  communication  concerning  the 
comparative  results  shown  by  two  lots  of  hives 
of  bees,  one  buried  and  the  other  exposed,  (page 
174)  we  omitted  to  say  that  the  two  stocks  that 
weighed  the  least,  viz. :  194  and  23$  lbs.  of  those 
wintered  in  the  open  air — were  Italians.  These 
we  swarmed  May  12th,  and  the  balance  that 
were  exposed,  June  5th ;  while  those  that  were 
buried  we  swarmed  May  20th,  except  the  one 
that  weighed  the  least  and  consumed  least. 
This  hive  was  only  half  full ;  the  bees  have 
filled  it  up  since  spring,  and  now,  July  1st,  it 
weighs  314  lbs.  more  than  when  taken  out,  and 
is  fit  to  swarm. 

The  present  time,  July  1st,  the  average  weight 
of  those  which  were  buried  is  78i  lbs.,  and  of 
those  exposed  is  37^|5  lbs.  Those  buried  are 
now  ready  to  work  in  boxes,  or  be  again  swarm¬ 
ed,  while  those  wintered  out,  except  the  Italians, 
are  only  in  fair  condition.  The  two  Itaiians 
weigh  54i  lbs.  and  61|  lbs.  We  wintered  97 
stocks  in  a  large  dark  room  on  the  floor  with 
the  honey  boards  removed,  and  66  in  a  stone 
cellar.  These  came  out  strong  in  number,  but 
lost  half  their  bees  the  first  few  days  they  flew 
out,  on  account  of  being  diseased  from  holding 
their  excrements  too  long.  This  fact  we  have 
noticed  for  several  years,  that  where  bees  were 
wintered  in  a  room,  or  cellar,  and  consumed 
much  honey  and  bee  bread,  the  old  bees  flew 
out  in  the  spring  and  never  Tlgirned,  for  when¬ 
ever  bees  are  hurt,  or  in  any  way  injured  in  a 
hive,  they  leave  the  rest  and  crawl  or  fly  away, 


BUBIED  STOCKS  OF  BEES. 


making  them  really  no  better  off"  than  those 
.  wintered  in  the  open  air.  With  those  buried, 
there  can  no  such  objection,  provided  the  fol¬ 
lowing  essential  condition  be  secured :  Complete 
freedom  from  dampness,  perfect  darkness,  and 
an  abundance  of  air,  but  no  draft  upon  them. 

Bees  may  be  buried  when  flowers  are  gone, 
and  left  until  they  come  again.  Weak  stocks 
may  be  wintered,  but  they  are  usually  more 
trouble  than  they  are  worth,  because  they  are 
annoyed  and  kept  weak,  if  not  robbed  by  the 
stronger  stocks,  and  because  they  consume 
proportionally  more  honey  to  keep  them  warm, 
while  in  the  ground  each  bee  eats  its  own  allow¬ 
ance.  They  are  not  annoyed  by  the  mice,  nor 
disturbed  by  the  changes  of  the  weather,  but 
really  are  at  rest;  nor  is  the  expense  much 
compared  with  preparing  and  placing  bees  in  a 
room,  or  cellar,  or  watching  out  of  doors,  as  the 
following  accurate  statement  of  the  way  in  which 
we  buried  our  stocks  last  winter,  will  show ; 

On  a  cool  day,  when  the  bees  were  quiet,  we 
selected  a  high  dry  site  near  our  apiary,  and  dug 
a  pit  8  feet  square  and  4  feet  deep,  and  threw 
the  dirt  well  back.  We  next  dug  a  hole  2  feet 
, square  and  2  feet  deep  iu  the  centre  of  this,  and 
placed  in  it  an  open  box  of  the  same  size,  with 
its  top  edge  on  a  level  with  the  floor  of  the 
pit.  We  next  placed  two  old  iron  gas  pipes, 
10  feet  long  and  of  half-inch  bore,  one  end  of 
each  in  the  box,  and  the  other  ends  on  opposite 
sides  of  the  pit.  These  serve  to  connect  with 
the  air  on  the  outside  of  the  pit.  The  outer 
ends  were  covered  with  cups  to  keep  the  dirt 
out.  Pipes  of  wood,  tin,  or  lead  -nmuld  answer, 
if  small,  and  secured  against  mice  getting  in. 
We  next  placed  narrow  strips  of  old  boards  on 
the  bottom,  2  inches  apart,  on  which  to  place  the 
hives,  and  between  which  the  air  may  circulate 
through  the  pit.  We  next  removed  the  honey 
boards  from  over  the  bees,  and  replaced  the 
caps  and  opened  all  the  fly  holes,  and  one  2- 
inch  hole  in  each  end  of  the  cap.  (In  burying 
common  box  hives,  we  would  invert  them,  and 
place  over  each  an  empty  hive.)  We  next 
placed  them  in  the  position  shown  in  the  sketch, 
with  the  entrances  outward,  and  put  an  empty 
hive  on  top,  into  which  we  placed  upright  a 
box  made  of  4  pickets,  with  two  opposite  sides, 
^  inch  shorter  than  the  others,  and  nailed  a 
board  over  the  top.  [This  was  used  we  suppose 
in  place  of  the  top  ventilating  pipes  shown  in 
the  sketch. — Ed.]  We  next  placed  sawed  posts 


upright  ai-ound  the  hives 
(scantling  and  boards,  or  plank 
would  answer  as  well);  then 
covered  the  posts  with  1  foot 
of  dry  straw,  and  then  a  foot 
of  dry  dirt,  beginning  at  the 
bottom  and  working  up  to  pre¬ 
vent  sliding,  then  another  layer 
of  straw  and  dirt,  which  should 
be  smoothed  off,  and  then  an¬ 
other  layer  of  straw  and  brush, 
or  boards,  to  keep  it  in  place. 
Kemove  the  caps  fi  om  off  the 
pipes  and  place  over  each  a 
box,  as  shown  in  the  sketch. 
The  construction  occupied  two 
hands  i  day,  and  two  hands  4 
day  opening  and  clearing  up. 
It  is  important  to  dig  the  hole 
deep  enough,  so  as  to  get  plen¬ 
ty  of  dirt  to  cover  deeply,  and 
not  put  over  25  stocks  together. 
As  far  south  as  the  lattitude  of 
Hew  York,  perhaps  it  would 
not  be  best  to  risk  so  many  the 
first  winter. — [Tiie  former  article  of  Bidwell 
Brothers,  excited  no  little  interest.  This  is  ex¬ 
plicit,  and  will  save  both  us  and  them  answering 
many  letters.  It  would  be  interesting  to  know 
the  extreme  length  of  time  bees  may  be  buried. 
We  shall  be  glad  of  facts  on  the  subject. — Eds.] 


Hints  on  Harvesting  Buck-wheat. 

The  excellence  of  buckwheat  flour  depends 
chiefly  on  the  management  of  the  grain  between 
the  time  of  ripening  and  grinding.  The  com¬ 
mon  way  of  treating  buckwheat  effectually  pre¬ 
vents  making  good  flour,  it  being  allo-wed  to 
remain  in  the  swath  for  several  weeks,  when  it 
should  never  be  suffered  to  lie  longer  than  a 
day  or  two,  and  it  is  decidedly  better  for  the 
grain  to  rake  it  and  set  it  on  end,  as  fast  as  it  is 
cradled.  Much  less  grain  will  be  wasted  by 
shelling  out;  the  straw  will  cure  and  dryout 
sooner,  and  make  better  fodder;  the  crop  will 
be  ready  for  threshing  or  housing  in  less  time; 
and  the  grain  will  yield  a  much  better  quality 
of  flour.  It  is  especially  injurious  to  the  grain 
to  be  exposed  to  storms  before  it  is  set  up,  for 
dirt  is  spattered  all  over  the  grain,  by  the  falling 
of  large  rain  drops.  This  makes  the  flour 
dark-colored  and  gritty.  Wetting  and  drying 
the  grain  several  times,  destroys  the  “  life  ”  of 
the  flour.  It  will  never  be  as  white,  nor  make 
so  good  cakes,  but  will  be  sticky  and  the  cakes 
clammy,  like  the  flour  of  sprouted  wheat. 


How  to  Splice  a  Hope,  and  to  Splice  an  Eye. 

Farmers  are  proverbially  awkward  in  their  use 
of  ropes.  Few  can  make  a  knot  or  a  t  ie,  or  a  hitch 
that  will  hold,  and  that  they  can  undo  in  a  hur¬ 
ry,  after  it  has  been  subjected  to  a  heavy  strain. 
We  have  to  use  ropes  a  great  deal,  and  should 
know  how  to  manage  them  better,  especially 
in  connection  with  block-tackle  and  sheers. 
We  propose  therefore  to  figure  and  describe 
some  of  the  most  useful  splices  and  knots,  and 
to  show  how  useful  they  may  be  in  many  cases, 
and  how  desirable  the  ability  is  to  make  smooth 
connections  and  a  knot,  or  tie,  that  will  not 
jam,  but  which  may  be  loosened  at  any  moment. 

The  Short  Splice. — If  one  wishes  to  length¬ 
en  a  rope  for  permanent  use,  as  a  well  rope  for 
instance,  it  looks  very  awkward  if  it  is  tied  in 
the  usual  way,  and  it  is  much  better  to  splice  it 
neatly.  Ropes  in  common  use  are  composed  of 


Q76 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[September, 


three  strands,  and  each  strand  of  two  or  more 
strands,  or  rope-yarns.  Figure  1  sliows  how 
two  pieces  of  such  a  rope  are  united  by  what  is 


Fijr.  1.  SHORT  SPLICE. 


Fig.  2.  SPLICED  EYE. 


termed  the  “Short  Splice.”  Tlie  strands  of 
each  end  are  first  untwisted  and  placed  together, 
each  strand  being  placed  between  two  strands 
of  tlie  other  rope.  Each  strand  in  succession 
(first  of  one  rope  and  then  of  the  other)  is  tlien 
passed  over  the  one  it  lies  in  contact  with  on 
the  left,  and  is  tucked  under  the  next  strand. 
To  accomplish  this  tucking  easily,  the  rope  is 
untwisted  a  little  and  a  sharp 
w'ooden,  or  iron  pin  (a  mar¬ 
line  pin)  is  inserted,  and  a 
place  made  through  which 
the  end  of  the  strand  may 
be  passed.  The  course  ot 
strands  may  easily  be  traced 
by  referring  to  the  number¬ 
ing  of  the  dark  strands  in 
fig.  1.  When  all  the  ends 
are  thus  tucked  once,  we 
have  already  a  perfectly 
strong  splice,  w’hich  W'ill 
bear  any  strain  the  rope  will, 
but  the  ends  must  be  left  on, 
for  if  the  rope  is  subject  to 
an  untwisting  operation  it 
might  part.  If  a  handsomer 
finish  is  desirable,  the  ends 
of  the  strands  may  be  open¬ 
ed,  and  one  of  the  two  yarns 
of  Avhich  each  is  composed 
may  be  tucked  again.  After 
this  both  yarns  may  be  cut 
off.  This  splice  is  twice  as 
large  as  the  original  rope, 
but  not  nearly  so  large  as  tlie 
knots  commonly  tied  in 
ropes,  and  it  will  go  through 


n 


Fig.  3.— THIMBLE. 


Fig.  4.  LONG  SPLICE. 


most  pulleys  in  which  the  rope  runs  loosely. 

The  Eye  Splice. — An  eye  in  the  end  of  a 
rope  (fig.  2)  is  ofien  very  useful,  especially  when 
it  is  to  receive  a  hook,  or  to  be  subjected  to 
wear  in  any  way.  In  such  cases  the  rope  is 
bent  round  a  thimble  (fig.  3),  which  is  firmly 


enclosed  in  the  eye.  This  eye  is  made  veiy 
much  like  a  short  splice,  only  each  strand  is 
tucked  twice.  The  numbers  1,  2,  3,  will  be  a 
sufficient  guide. ' 

The  Long  Splice. — When  it  is  necessary  to 
splice  a  rope,  which  runs  snugly  through  a 
block,  or  a  hole,  or  over  a  beam,  where  it  is  un¬ 
desirable  to  have  any  catching  or  irregularity,  the 
long  splice  must  be  employed.  This  is  shown 
in  fig.  4,  and  when  neatly  done,  the  place  of 
joining  will  hardly  be  noticed.  The  rope-ends 
are  opened  as  for  the  short  splice,  but  for  a  long¬ 
er  distance,  and  are  placed  together  in  the  same 
way.  Then  one  strand  of  one  end  is  untwisted 
still  further,  and  the  strand  of  the  opposite  end, 
which  matches  the  untwisted  one,  is  laid  in  to 
follow  it,  and  is  thus  carried  as  far  as  three 
twists,  or  three  times  around  the  rope.  Kext, 
one  of  the  strands  of  the  other  end  is  run  back, 
and  another  laid  in  in  the  same  way,  so  that 
when  this  is  done,  the  six  strands  will  lie  match¬ 
ing  one  another  in  pairs,  at  A,  B  and  (7,  fig.  3, 
in  the  way  shown  at  A.  Then  tie  each  pair 
in  simple  knots,  following  the  twist  of  the  rope, 
as  shown  at  G.  Finally  tuck  the  ends,  as  shown 
at5,  pull  all  tight  and  smooth,  and  cut  them  off. 

These  splices  are  good  things  for  the  boys  to 
exercise  their  ingenuity  upon  for  the  coming 
month,  and  by-and-by  we  will  give  the  figures 
of  some  useful  knots  and  “hitches”  for  them 
to  try  their  hands  upon.  Twenty-five  cents 
worth  of  tarred  3-straud  rope,  scarcely  as  large 
as  ones  little  finger,  will  be  all  the  expense,  and 
the  lesson  learned  will  be  a  very  useful  one. 


Building  Round  Stacks. 

In  building  a  stack  of  any  kind,  there  are  two 
points  of  great  importance  to  be  observed.  The 
first  is  to  carry  up  a  stack  true,  and  the  next  is 
to  place  the  sheaves  or  material  in  the  best  posi¬ 
tion  to  carry  off  the  rain.  A  good  foundation 
is  always  necessary  to  keep  the  bottom  dQi. 
This  can  be  made  of  poles,  rails,  or  plank.  It 
is  alwa3^s  a  good  practice  to  make  a  round 
stack  about  a  pole  set  firmly  in  the  ground. 
This  will  keep  it  erect  when  it  is  settling. 
When  making  a  round  stack,  where  there  is  no 
pole  in  the  middle,  it  wdll  alwa3"s  be  found  ad¬ 
vantageous  to  stick  a  fork  at  the  middle,  keep¬ 
ing  it  there,  as  the  stack  is  carried  up.  Then,  a 
stacker  can  always  judge  whether  he  is  build¬ 
ing  the  sides  uniformly  or  not. 

The  illustration  herewith  given,  represents 
the  best  way  of  making  a  round  stack.  A  bulge 
is  essential  to  carry  the  rain  as  far  from  bottom 
as  possible,  In  order  to  make  the  first  course 
true,  stick  a  fork  at  the  middle,  and  tie  a  string 
to  it;  and  holding  the  other  end  in  one  hand, 
walk  around  the  outer  edge,  and  adjust  the  out¬ 
side  course  of  forkfuls,  until  the  circle  is  com¬ 
plete.  Keep  the  middle  a  little  the  fullest,  until 
the  bulge  is  formed,  when  the  middle  must  be 
raised  from  one  to  two  feet  higher  than  the 
edge.  The  width  of  the  stack  will  determine 
the  hight  of  the  middle  above  the  edge.  When 
stacking  hay,  straw,  or  loose  grain,  lay  a  course 
of  forkfuls  of  uniform  size  around  the  edge, 
and  then  bind  this  course  with  another  row  of 
forkfuls  lapping  on  the  first.  Proceed  in  this 
manner  until  the  stack  is  finished. 

When  sheaves  are  put  in  a  stack,  set  up  a 
large  bundle  in  the  centre,  and  continue  to  stand 
others  around  it,  leaning  them  inward  until  a 
bottom  is  formed  large  enough  for  the  stack. 
Wow,  commence  again  in  the  middle,  and  lay 
a  circular  course;  tlien  another  and  another 
course,  until  the  outside  course  is  laid.  Great 


care  must  be  exercised  to  see  that  buts  of  the 
sheaves  on  the  outside  are  sufficiently  slanting 
to  carry  all  the  rain— not  a  part  01113^ — readily 
outivard.  If  the  sheaves  lie  nearly  flat,  the 
straw  on  the  upper  side  will  carry  the  rain  to¬ 
ward  the  middle  of  the  stack.  The  outside 
course  of  sheaves  should  be  placed  as  close  to¬ 
gether  as  they  can  be,  to  prevent  large  holes  in 
the  outside,  where  rain  will  find  its  way  into 
the  sheaves  beneath.  To  prevent  the  sheaves 
slipping  outward,  elevate  the  top  end  of  every 
bundle  when  placing  it,  and  thrust  the  buts  on 
the  underside  into  the  course  below  it.  When 
they  are  simply  laid  down  without  this  securit3'-, 
the  courses  are  very  liable  to  slide  off.  This  is 
one  of  the  manipulations  in  stacking  that  but 
comparatively  few  understand.  We  have  seen 
half  a  wagon  load  of  sheaves  slide  at  once  from 
the  side  of  a  stack  built  by  a  man  who  w’as 
ignorant  of  this  part  of  stacking.  As  the  straw 
of  barley  and  corn  stalks  are  very  slippeiy,  it  is 
difficult  to  keep  the  courses  from  sliding,  unless 
the  buts  of  every  sheaf  are  secured  in  this  way. 

To  TOP  OFF. — If  the  stack  is  being  built  of 
sheaves,  the  middle  must  be  kept  so  full  that 
there  will  be  a  good  inclination  of  the  straw  in 
the  buts  of  the  bundles.  This  is  always  a  much 
better  guide  than  to  attempt  to  keep  the  middle 
of  the  stack  at  a  certain  hight  above  the  outside. 
The  stacker  should  move  on  his  knees,  over  the 
course  of  sheaves  he  is  laying;  and,  in  order  to 
keep  them  as  close  together  as  the3’-  can  be  con¬ 
veniently,  he  should  lay  each  sheaf  partly  on 
the  side  of  the  one  last  laid ;  and  as  it  is  pressed 
down  with  the  knees,  hold  it  from  slipping  with 
both  hands.  By  this  means  a  much  larger 
number  of  bundles  may  be  secured  in  a  smaller 
compass  than  otherwise.  If  the  straws  only 
have  a  suitable  inclination  to  carry  the  water 
outw’ard  instead  of  toward  the  middle  of  the 
stack,  rain  will  injure  but  a  small  portion  of 
either  straw  or  grain.  If  one  side  of  a  stack 


A  STACK  BRACED  TO  PREVENT  LEANING. 

should  be  lower  than  the  other,  it  may  usually 
be  carried  up  even,  by  using  the  large  sheaves 
for  the  lower,  and  the  small  ones  for  the  higher 
side.  Tliis  onesideduess  should  be  guarded 
against  before  the  stack  has  become  onesided. 
The  straightest  and  handsomest  bundles  should 
be  placed  in  the  outside  course,  for  the  purpose 
of  keeping  the  stack  of  the  correct  shape,  as 
well  as  carrying  off  the  rain  better  than  tangled 
bundles,  wlijch  should  form  the  inside  courses, 
whenever  there  is  any  difference  in  the  sheaves. 
If  it  is  necessary  to  have  a  man  or  boy  stand  on 
the  stack  to  pitch  the  sheaves  to  the  stacker, 
he  should  always  remain  as  near  tlie  middle  as 
practicable,  and^it  travel  about  so  as  to  dis¬ 
place  the  sheaves,  after  the  stacker  has  left 
them.  Keep  the  middle  full,  the  form  circular, 


■< 


I 

i 


I 


i 


1865.j 


AMERICAN  AQRICULTURIST, 


and  draw  the  courses  in  gradually.  When  the 
stack  is  not  bujlt  around  a  pole,  sharpen  a  small 
rail  or  scantling,  and  set  it  erect  at  the  center, 
by  thrusting  it  in  two  or  three  feet,  so  that  it 
will  stand  while  the  top  is  built  around  it.  As 
the  area  of  the  top  of  the  stack  diminishes,  con¬ 
tinue  to  place  the  sheaves  more  erect,  until  it 
terminates  in  one  course  inclining  at  an  angle 
of  about  45  degrees.  Bind  the  tops  of  these 
securely  to  the  pole.  Then  make  a  large  bun¬ 
dle  of  long  rye  straw,  wet  it  thoroughly,  so  that 
it  will  keep  in  place  better,  and  having  bound 
it  with  one  band  at  about  one  third  the  distance 
from  the  top  to  the  huts,  slip  it  down  over  the 
top  of  the  stake,  and  bind  the  top  with  several 
bands,  as  represented  in  the  illustration.  Spread 
out  the  buts  evenly,  and  rake  them  down  straight. 
A  stack  made  according  to  the  foregoing  direc¬ 
tions  will  turn  heavy  showers  almost  as  well  as 
a  shingle  roof,  and  the  M'aler  will  all  fall  clear. 


Why  Stacks  Lean. 


Stacks  will  sometimes  lean  to  such  a  degree, 
that  all  above  the  bulge  must  be  pitched  off, 
and  the  stack  re-topped.  When  most  of  the 
pitching  is  done  on  one  side  of  a  stack,  the  op¬ 
posite  side  does  not  get  pressed  down  so  firmly, 
and  it  therefore  settles  more  than  the  side  where 
the  material  was  pitched  on.  This  causes  the 
stack  to  lean  ;  and  by  leaning,  the  courses  are 
turned  up  to  such  a  degree  that  on  one  side  it  is 
down  hill  toward  the  middle  of  the  stack. 
Another  reason  why  stacks  lean  is,  that  the 
bulge  is  laid  out  further  from  the  centre  on  one 
side  than  the  other ;  and  as  the  side  that  is  laid 
out  the  furthest  will  settle  most,  the  entire  stack 
often  leans  so  far  as  to  fall  over. 

The  usual  way  of  keeping  a  stack  from  lean¬ 
ing  is,  to  thrust  one  end  of  a  rail  or  pole  against 
it,  and  set  the  other  end  on  the  ground.  This 
sometimes  turns  up  the  courses  so  as  to  conduct 
the  rain  toward  the  middle  of  a  stack.  To 
avoid  all  difiiculty  from  this  source,  let  it  be 
braced  as  shown  in  the  illustration  on  the  pre- 
ceeding  page,  by  setting  one  end  of  a  plank  a 
few  inches  in  the  ground,  and  the  upper  end 
pressed  against  the  bulge  of  the  stack.  This 
plank  should  stand  perpendicularly,  so  as  not 
to  turn  the  courses  of  the  sheaves  up  sidewise. 
The  upright  plank  is  kept  in  position  by  a  rail 
or  pole  resting  against  a  broad  stake  in  the 
ground,  while  a  cleat  upon  the  plank  prevents 
the  other  end  from  sliding.  Several  such  braces 
may  be  fitted  to  a  stack,  which  will  hold  it  in 
correct  position  while  settling.  This  manner 
of  bracing  a  stack  before  it  has  settled,  when 
there  is  danger  that  a  high  wind  may  blow  it 
over,  will  often  be  found  very  convenient. 
When  a  stacl^is  braced  in  this  manner,  the 
props  can  be  removed  at  pleasure;  whereas, 
when  thrust  against  the  side,  it  settles  so  heavily 
on  them,  that  it  is  difficult  to  take  them  away 
if  desirable,  after  it  has  settled  firmly  into  place. 

- - ^ - 

Indiana  Agriculture. 

The  State  of  Indiana  presents  to  the  traveller 
the  appearance  of  a  region  most  inviting  to  the 
new  settler.  A  great  portion  of  it  is  well 
wooded  rolling  country,  alive  with  streams,  ca¬ 
pable  of  supplying  power  for  the  employment  of 
a  large  industrial  population.  The  land  is  rich, 
vastly  richer  than  New  England,  fully  equal  in 
most  parts  to  the  best  districts  of  New  York, 
Pennsylvania,  or  even  Ohio.  The  prairies  are 
not  so  extensive,  perhaps  not  so  fertile  as  those 
of  Illinois,  but  where  fertility  is  considered  in¬ 


277 


exhaustible  (though  not  really 
so),  it  is  difficult  to  make  very 
accurate  comparisons.  A  large 
portion  of  the  land,  and  we  may 
almost  say  of  the  whole  State, 
needs  thorough  draining ;  and 
it  is  the  lack  of  this  that  causeg 
fever  and  ague,  which  how¬ 
ever,  as  the  timber  is  cut  off,  is 
gradually  falling  back  before  the 
march  of  good  farming.  Why 
we  do  not  hear  more  of  and 
from  the  farmers  of  this  State, 
we  w'ill  not  attempt  to  decide. 

This  is  a  question  for  them. 

The  Agriculturist  books  have 
the  names  of  many  thousands  of 
subscribers  in  this  State.  They 
seem  to  be  good  readers,  but 
slow  w'l'iters.  The  following 
letter,  how’ever,  is  from  one  of 
them ;  we  publish  it  as  a  rarity, 
and  do  so  the  more  readily,  as 
it  is  a  sort  of  challenge  to  In¬ 
diana  farmers  to  make  them¬ 
selves  and  their  agriculture  bet- 
.ter  known.  Our  correspondent 
writes  from  “  Central  Indiana,” 
and  signs  himself  “Clodhop¬ 
per.” — He  says : — “  I  have  been 
a  reader  of  the  Agrculturist  for 
eight  years,  but  have  scarcely 
ever  seen  any  thing  in  it,  or  in 
other  agricultural  papers  in  re¬ 
gard  to  Indiana  farming,  or 
written  by  an  inhabitant  of  this, 
my  native  State.  Some  of  our 
best  farmers  have  never  travel¬ 
led  out  of  the  State,  and  they 
read  of  great  things  in  other 
States,  without  thinking  what 
Indiana  can  do  and  has  done. 

Some  of  our  local  papers  try  to, 
and  do,  make  the' impression,  that  Indiana  is  far 
below  all  of  her  sister  States  in  every  thing; 
this  has  a  tendency  to  put  the  honest  old 
farmers  out  of  heart.  But,  like  all  other  States, 
wm  have  a  great  many  farmers  who  are  not 
honest,  and  it  is  not  much  to  their  interest  to 
try  improvements,  because  they  ‘  make  their 
Jack’  by  cheating  the  really  honest  ones. 

“Another  thing  that  is  the  most  in  the  way  is, 
wm  don’t  mingle  enough  together.  We  are  not 
social  enough ;  we  pass  by  one  another  too 
often  without  speaking ;  we  don’t  feel  enough 
interest  in  our  neighbor’s  affairs,  and  we  try  to 
do  our  own  business  without  letting  any  body 
know  any  thing  about  it,  and  so,  in  this  respect, 
every  man  is  a  secret  society  within  himself. 

“  Let  me  urge  my  brother  farmers  to  write, 
and  make  ourselves  more  widely  known.  Let 
us  hear  from  one  another  oftener.  So  far  as  I 
can  see,  and  I  have  travelled  a  good  deal,  w^e 
are  not  so  far  in  the  rear  as  some  suppose ;  as 
for  crops  w'e  do  as  well  as  the  best,  our  stock  is 
good,  our  permanent  land  improvements  are  in¬ 
creasing  every  day,  and  what  we  lack  is  to  have 
faith  in  the  State,  and  to  let  other  people  know  it.” 

We  hope  our  Indiana  friends  will  be  stirred 
up  to  let  the  world  know  what  they  are  about. 
Far  be  it  from  us  to  say  a  word  against  so  mag- 
nificient  an  agricultural  district.  We  have  often 
thought  that  the  fine  timber-lands  and  rolling 
country  offered  more  inducements  to  emigrants, 
and  the  prospect  of  more  agreeable  homes, 
around  which  orchards  and  vineyards  would 
soon  spring  up,  than  the  immense  plains  of  the 
grand  prairie,  or  the  regions  lying  further  We'st.. 


A  New  Weed— The  Bladder  Campion. 

{Silene  injiata.) 


The  Bladder  Campion,  or  Bladder  Pink,  is  a 
plant  wiiich  was  long  ago  introduced  into  New 
England,  where  it  grow’s  not  very  abundantly 
along  the  road-sides  and  in  fields,  but  has  not  here¬ 
tofore  attained  a  place  in  the  catalogue  of  trouble¬ 
some  w'eeds.  The  plant  has  recently  made  its 
appearance  in  the  eastern  part  of  New  York 
State,  especially  in  Dutchess  and  Westchester 
counties,  having  been  introduced  there  in  some 
clover-seed,  and  has  become  established  to  such 
an  extent  as  to  cause  the  farmers  much  anxiety. 
All  such  plants  are  easily  managed,  if  they  are 
taken  in  hand  wiien  they  first  make  their  ap¬ 
pearance,  and  before  they  have  time  to  mature 
a  crop  of  seed ;  and  as  this  is  an  innocent  look¬ 
ing  one,  which  would  never  be  suspected  of  do¬ 
ing  any  injury,  we  give  an  engraving  of  a  flower 
stem,  in  order  that  it  may  be  recognized.  The 
root  is  perennial,  the  main  or  tap-root  often  over 
an  inch  in  diameter,  and  descending  deep  into 
the  soil,  throwing  off  numerous  strong  branches. 
The  stems  are  usually  about  a  foot  high,  but  in 
rich  soil  it  grows  from  2  to  3  feet  high,  much 
branched,  and  usually  weak  and  spreading. 
The  leaves  are  of  a  pale  green,  the  lower  ones 
being  much  larger  than  those  shown  in  the 
engraving.  The  flowers  are  borne  in  a  loose 
cluster,  and  are  not  without  beauty,  the  white 
petals  being  very  deeply  notched  or  cleft.  The 
most  striking  character  about  the  flower  is  its 
bladdery  calyx,  which  very  loosely  surrounds 
the  seed  pod  and  is  very  prettily  marked  with 


378 


AMERICAN  AG-RICT^LTURIST, 


[SeptembeJi, 


veins.  This  peculiarity  of  the  calyx,  which  is 
referred  to  in  its  common  names,  enables  the 
plant  to  be  readily  identified.  The  numerous 
seeds  are  quite  small,  kidney-shaped  and  rough. 
From  the  strong  growth  of  the  root,  the  plant  is 
very  difficult  to  extirpate.it  when  once  establish¬ 
ed,  and  the  complaints  we  have  from  the  locali¬ 
ties  infested  by  it,  are  of  a  character  to  induce 
us  to  put  farmers  w'ell  on  their  guard  against  it. 


Cutting  and  Curing  Corn,  Sowed  for 
Fodder. 

The  curing  of  corn  stalks,  that  is  those  which 
bear  grain,  cannot  be  done  until  the  corn  is  well 
glazed,  and  then  the  manner  of  treatment  must 
be  primarily  adapted  to  securing  the  corn  in 
the  best  condition.  Corn  sowed  for  fodder, 
however,  should  be  cut  when  the  grain  is  barely 
out  of  the  watery  state  and  beginning  to  be 
inilkjq  that  is  when  the  stalk  has  attained  its 
full  growth,  but  has  not  yet  become  dry  and 
hard.  The  manner  of  cutting  depends  much  on 
the  size  of  the  stalks.  When  they  are  of  ordinary 
length  and  size,  say  3  to  5  feet  high,  they  may 
best  be  cut  with  a  reaping  machine,  stopping 
every  time  a  gavel  is  cut  and  lifting  it  off.  If 
too  heavy  for  this,  they  must  be  cut  by  hand. 
A  strong  man  can  swing  a  cradle,  and  cut  a 
moderate  swath.  If  this  cannot  be  done,  it  is 
better  to  cut  up  wdth  a  sickle,  or  corn-cutter, 
laying  the  stalks  in  gavels,  than  to  cut  with  a 
common,  or  a  bush  scythe.  The  use  of  the 
grass  scythe  is  no  doubt  the  easiest  way  to  cut 
the  corn,  but  it  necessitates  picking  up  the  stalks 
almost  one  by  one,  which  is  very  laborious. 

If  the  weather  be  pleasant,  spread  out  the 
gavels  to  the  sun,  and  turn  them  over  before  the 
dew  falls.  After  a  few  day’s  sunning,  bind  in 
small  sheaves,  and  set  up  in  close  round  stooks, 
binding  the  tops  with  several  bands,  to  make 
them  pointed  to  turn  the  rain  well.  When 
there  is  a  fair  prospect  of  two  or  three  da3's  of 
pleasant  weather,  remove  the  bands  from  the 
tops  of  the  stooks,  and  set  the  bundles  in  long- 
shocks.  In  this  way  they  will  drj’-  out  very  fast. 
Before  a  storm  comes  on,  they  should  be  put 
again  in  round  stooks,  or  secured  in  the  barn. 
A  long  time  is  required  to  cure  stalks  fit  for 
stacking.  When  a  farmer  has  plenty  of  barn 
room,  it  is  an  excellent  practice  to  lay  poles  or 
rails  from  beam  to  beam,  and  set  the  stalks  ail 
over  them  on  the  but  ends.  In  this  wmy  the  air 
can  circulate  near  every  sheaf,  and  none  of  the 
stalks  will  spoil.  Those  farmers  who  have  hay 
caps,  can  cover  the  stooks  with  them,  and  thus 
secure  the  stalks  wmll  in  the  field,  until  they  are 
cured  enough  to  be  stacked,  or  put  in  the  barn. 


New  Suggestion  for  Hay  Caps. 

A  certain  man,  a  Yankee  of  course,  has  dream¬ 
ed  of  an  independent  fortune  and  world-wide 
notoriety,  after  having  brought  out  a  wooden 
hay  cap,  made  in  the  following  manner :  The 
huts  of  wide  shingle.s,  two  or  more  feet  long, 
are  nailed  to  sticks  about  li  inches  square,  so 
as  to  form  a  roof  like  a  barn  with  a  ridge  pole 
in  it.  The  upper  side  of  the  miniature  ridge 
pole  is  beveled  each  way  from  the  middle,  so  as 
to  give  the  shingles  the  right  pitch.  The  ridge 
poles  are  about  four  feet  long;  and  the  edges  of 
the  shingles  are  lapped  one  on  the  other,  as  the 
huts  are  nailed  to  the  ridge  pole.  Such  a  roof 
will  cover  a  cock  of  large  size,  or  a  shock  of 
wheat,  keeping  it  dry  through  any  storm.  The 
only  question  is,  whether  they  will  not  be  too 


costly,  and  inconvenient  to  handle.  Where 
shingles  can  be  sawed  cheaply,  a  few  can  be 
made  to  test  their  practicability.  Thin  boards 
of  basswood,  whitewood,  or  pine,  not  more  than 
one  fourth  of  an  inch  thick,  would  subserve 
quite  as  good  purpose  as  wide  shingles.  They 
could  be  carried  to  and  from  the  field  in  a 
wagon ;  and  packed  in  a  small  compass  in  a 
“nest,”  like  wooden  bowls.  It  would  be  neces¬ 
sary  to  make  the  tops  of  the  cocks  so,  that  the 
wooden  cskps  would  fit  well,  and  not  be  blown 
oflF,  even  by  high  winds.  We  would  be  glad 
to  hear  of  a  few  being  made  where  lumber  is 
cheap,  and  the  result  reported  for  the  benefit 
of  others.  At  times,  where  there  is  but  little  to 
do,  such  caps  might  be  made  and  painted  with 
coal  tar,  to  prevent  the  shingles  shrinking  and 
swelling  by  the  action  of  showers  and  sunshine. 

- -•-I - -  ■  — — - - 

Practical  Advantages  of  Drilling  Wheat. 


Among  the  advantages  of  drilling  in  wfinter 
wheat  over  broadcast  sowing,  are  the  saving  of 
labor,  the  saving  of  seed,  and  securing  more 
abundant  crops.  Whether  the  grain  is  sowed 
broadcast,  or  drilled,  the  ground  should  re¬ 
ceive  the  same  thorough  preparation  previous, 
to  distributing  the  seed.  If  drilled  in,  one  man 
will  complete  the  operation,  by  simply  going 
over  the  ground  once.  If  sowed  broadcast,  the 
ground  must  be  harrowed  twice  after  the  seed 
is  sowed.  This,  in  addition  to  the  time  con¬ 
sumed  in  sowing  the  seed  by  hand,  will  require 
about  three  times  longer  than  is  necessary  to 
drill  it  in.  Moreover,  the  drill,  if  properly  made 
and  adjusted,  will  deposit  every  kernel  at  a  uni¬ 
form  depth ;  whereas,  the  harrow  covers  some 
of  the  seed  too  deep,  some  not  deep  enough, 
and  some  not  at  all ;  and  if  the  soil  be  deep  and 
mellow,  the  feet  of  teams  w'ill  press  a  consider¬ 
able  portion  of  it  quite  too  deep. 

Another  advantage  in  drilling  in  the  seed  is, 
as  soon  as  an  acre  or  two  is  plowed,  the  grain 
may  be  put  in  immediately,  thus  finishing  the 
work  as  fast  as  the  ground  is  plowed.  When 
grain  is  sowed  broadcast,  it  is  much  more  con¬ 
venient,  and  rather  important,  to  have  the  entire 
field  plowed  before  sowing,  so  as  to  be  able  to 
harrow  both  ways.  When  a  farmer  has  a  drill, 
he  can  plow  an  acre,  then  harrow  it,  and  drill 
in  the  seed  all  in  one  da}',  while  the  soil  is  fresh, 
which  is  the  best  condition  to  hasten  the  germi¬ 
nation  of  the  grain.  Ho  thus  finishes  his  work 
as  he  progresses,  and  is  always  ready  for 
temporary  interruptions  by  storms  of  rain, 
which  are  often  attended  with  more  or  less  in¬ 
jury  to  the  crop.  Such  delays,  especially  with 
spring  grain,  are  often  fiital  to  a  good  crop. 

No  man  can  sow  wheat  broadcast  as  evenly 
as  a  good  drill  will  distribute  it.  But  as  a  man 
when  sowing  by  hand  will  vary  his  steps,  and 
the  force  applied  at  every  cast  of  the  seed,  and 
as  the  wind  will  often  blow  the  grain  from  its 
course,  it  becomes  necessary  to  sow  much  more 
seed  per  acre,  to  secure  as  thick  a  stand  of 
plants,  as  when  it  is  deposited  with  a  drill. 

Why  Wheat  Winter  Kills- 

When  the  soil  freezes,  it  is  greatly  expanded ; 
and  the  expansion  is  all  upwards,  because  the 
unfrozen  earth  below  will  not  yield  to  the  frozen 
stratum ;  and  there  is  no  vacant  space  to  be  fil¬ 
led  by  the  lateral  enlargement.  For  this  reason 
the  surface  of  the  soil  is  often  elevated  two, 
three,  or  more  inches  higher  than  it  stands 
when  the  ground  is  not  frozen.  The  writer 
once  had  two  sticks  of  timber  resting  with  their 


ends  on  the.  sills  of  one  of  his  out-buildings,  and 
the  middle  of  each  was  supported  by  posts  set 
in  the  ground  where  frost  could  not  reach  them. 
In  very  cold  weather,  the  entire  building  would 
be  raised  by  the  freezing  of  the  earth  beneath 
the  foundation,  so  that  a  plank,  li  inch  thick, 
could  be  put  under  the  timbers,  on  the  top  of 
the  posts.  If  the  position  of  shallow-rooted 
trees,  where  the  ground  freezes  deeply,  be  com¬ 
pared  with  horizontal  marks  on  a  building  that 
the  frost  does  not  lift,  it  will  often  be  seen  that 
they  stand  from  one  to  two  inches  higher,  when 
the  soil  is  thus  frozen,  than  when  free  from 
frost.  As  tlie  roots  of  such  trees  lie  nearly  in  a. 
horizontal  position,  they  rise  and  settle  back 
with  the  lifting  and  settling  of  the  soil.  Thus 
it  is  with  sod  ground.  The  roots  of  the  grass 
form  such  a  tangled  mat  near  the  surface  of  the 
ground,  that  tlie  entire  layer  of  turf  settles  back 
in  a  body,  keeping  the  roots  in  their  true  position. 

The  injury  to  the  wheat  plant  arising  from 
the  freezing  and  thawing  of  the  soil,  is  usually 
the  most  serious  obstacle  that  farmers  meet 
with  in  our  wheat  growing  regions.  By  the 
alternate  freezing  and  thawing  of  the  surface  of 
the  soil,  the  stools  of  wheat  are  lifted  and  sepa¬ 
rated  from  their  hold  upon  the  soil.  The  deep 
roots  which  penetrate  below  the  reach  of  shal¬ 
low  frosts  are  broken  oif,  and  the  earth  is  more  or 
less  loosened  from  the  others.  Here  we  per¬ 
ceive  the  disadvantage  of  depositing  the  seed 
too  deep.  The  roots  originating  from  the  seed, 
being  far  below  the  surface  of  the  ground, 
when  the  plant  is  lifted  by  the  expansion 
of  the  soil,  the  stem  will  be  likely  to  be 
separated  somewhere  between  the  surface  of 
the  ground  and  the  roots.  The  plants  then  soon 
die.  Wlien  the  roots  strike  downward,  their 
hold  in  the  soil  is  loosened  ;  and  as  they  do  not 
settle  back  to  their  original  position  when,  the 
ground  thaws,  the  plants  are  soon  worked  up¬ 
wards,  until  they  are  raised  almost  clear  of  the 
soil,  as  if  they  had  been  pulled  up  by  hand. 
Every  practical  wheat  grower  is  familiar  with  all 
these  disadvantages  in  raising  winter  wheat. 
With  spring  grain,  none  of  these  things  occur. 

In  order  therefore,  to  prevent  in  a  great  de¬ 
gree,  or  entirely,  any  injury  to  the  wheat  plant 
from  freezing  and  thawing  of  the  soil,  two 
things  are  essential.  The  first  is,  thorough 
drainage,  where  the  soil  is  at  all  inclined  to  be 
too  wet.  Dry  soils  are  affected  but  little  by  freez¬ 
ing  ;  but  when  a  soil  is  saturated  with  water,  it 
often  heaves  several  inches  above  its  usual  hight. 
This  process  so  disturbs  the  roots  of  wheat,  that 
they  have  no  more  hold  on  the  soil,  than  if  just 
transplanted.  Hence,  they  are  apt  soon  to  die. 

The  next  important  thing  is,  to  prepare  the 
soil,  as  has  been  previously  directed,  by  keeping 
a  thin  stratum  of  the  richest  soft  on  the  surface, 
and  by  depositing  the  seed  at  a  uniform  depth 
of  not  over  two  inches  over  the  entire  field,  so 
that  the  primary  roots,  those  starting  from  tlie 
seed,  and  those  other  roots  which  start  from 
above  the  seed,  will  all  spread  out  nearly  in  a 
horizontal  direction,  interlocking  with  each 
other,  and  thus  forming  a  tangled  mat  like  a 
sward,  that  will  rise  and  settle  back  to  its  proper 
position,  when  the  soil  freezes  and  thaws,  with¬ 
out  losing  its  hold  upon  the  soil. 

This  is  aimed  at  when  wheat  is  put  in  with 
an  ordinary  drill ;  and,  for  the  most  part,  the 
end  sought  is  secui'ed,  if  the  soil  be  of  a  uniform 
quality  and  condition,  so  that  the  teeth  will  run 
at  a  given  depth.  But  when  the  soil  is  mellow 
in  some  places,  and  hard  in  others,  some  drills 
will  deposit  the  seed  in  the  mellow  places  too 
deep,  so  that  putting  in  with  a  drill  will  have 


AMEfliCAN-  AC5-HTCUETURTST. 


t86S. 


no  advantage  over  sowing  broadcast,  so  far  as 
obviating  the  injurious  effects  of  freezing  and 
thawing  are  concerned.  The  teetli  of  grain 
drills  should  be  set  to  run  not  more  than  two 
inches  in  depth.  One  and  a  half  inches  deep 
for  winter  grain  is  better  than  two,  for  reasons 
already  assigned.  At  this  depth,  nearly  all  the 
roots  will  be  so  near  each  other,  that  the  ex¬ 
pansion  of  the  soil  will  neither  break  the  stem 
or  seriously  damage  the  roots ;  nor  will  it  cause 
perceptible  diminution  of  the  crop. 

■  ■  4  9  ^  ■ 

A  Word  about  Sorghum. 

The  amount  of  land  in  sorghum  is  reported 
as  very  large.  This  certainly  was  to  be  expect¬ 
ed,  from  the  great  price  sugar  and  molasses  have 
borne  for  some  years  past.  The  manufacture 
of  syrup  continues  to  be  the  only  profitable  aim 
of  the  sorghum  boiler,  for  when  well  made  it  is 
a  valuable  and  marketable  article.'  The  sugar, 
what  there  is  of  it,  has  an  uncertain  value,  as  it 
is  of  very  variable  quality.  The  time  of  har¬ 
vesting  is  after  the  seed  has  passed  the  milky 
state.  If  necessary  to  begin  early,  so  as  to  pro¬ 
long  the  boiling  season,  a  portion  may  be  cut  a 
little  sooner,  but  it  is  better  to  cut  later  and  stack 
the  cane.  Strip  the  leaves  from  the  cane  before 
cutting  up,  and  top  below  the  second  joint. 
We  will  not  advise  as  to  the  best  cane  mills  or 
evaporating  pans.  There  are  several  good  ones, 
and  like  mowing  machines,  their  excellencies 
make  them  very  nearly  equally  valuable.  The 
boiling  should  be  conducted  rapidly  in  shallow 
pans,  so  that  the  scum  may  be  removed.  If  it 
is  possible,  boil  down  the  juice  and  finish  it  be¬ 
fore  it  has  been  exposed  to  the  air  by  standing ; 
but  that  which  is  somewhat  reduced  will  bet¬ 
ter  bear  exposure  than  that  freshly  expressed. 
Tlie  skimming  should  be  very  thorough,  and 
the  hot  syrup  should  be  passed  through  a  filter 
or  strainer  of  wire  gauze  to  remove  specks,  etc. 
.Tuice  of  good  quality  may  be  evaporated  and 
purified  without  the  use  of  defecating  articles, 
like  lime,  soda,  eggs,  milk,  etc. ;  but  when  it  is 
necessary  to  use  them,  lime  is  the  best  neutralizer 
of  acids,  and  eggs  the  best  coagulator,  though 
fresh  bullock’s  blood  is  much  cheaper.  These 
substances  are  only  added  in  the  finishing  pro¬ 
cess,  and  will  all  be  removed  by  the  skimming. 
Economy  in  fuel  is  a  very  important  subject. 
The  fire  should  burn  freely,  no  more  air  ought  to 
be  admitted  than  will  aid  the  combustion,  and  all 
cracks  where  air  can  enter  except  below  the  fire 
should  be  stopped  by  clay  and  sand  luting. 
The  fire  should  play  along  the  bottom  of  the 
pan,  and  all  the  heated  air  pass  as  close  to  the 
pan  as  is  consistent  with  a  good  draft.  Noth¬ 
ing  is  gained  in  concentrating  the  syrup  too 
much,  and  it  is  done  only  at  the  risk  of  scorch¬ 
ing.  It  should  be  about  the  thickness  of  good 
West  India  or  New  Orleans  molasses. 


Preparation  of  Soil  for  Winter  Wheat. 


In  our  latitude,  whether  winter  wheat  is  to  be 
sowed  on  summer  fallow,  or  to  follow  barley 
or  oats,  the  ground  really  should  have  been 
in  the  course  of  preparation  during  the  month 
of  August.  As  the  Midge  and  Hessian  fly 
are  no  longer  feared  in  many  localities,  farmers 
may  now  return  to  the  production  of  winter 
wheat,  with  the  expectation  of  raising  remuner¬ 
ative  crops,  if  they  prepare  the  soil  properly. 
Our  experience  with  this  crop  warrants  us  in 
stating  that  the  most  effectual  prevention  of  the 
ravages  of  the  midge,  is  a  thorough  preparation 
of  the  soil,  and  a  liberal  application  of  good, 


well-rotted  manure,  and  this  has  been  cor¬ 
roborated  by  some  of  the  best  wheat  growers  of 
Western  New  York,  The  reasoning  on  this 
subject  is,  that  a  thorough  preparation  of  the 
soil  produces  a  more  luxuriant  and  healthy 
growth,  which  will  withstand  the  injurious  at¬ 
tacks  of  both  these  insects,  and  every  good 
fiirmer  will  admit  the  correctness  of  the  logic. 
Wheat  of  any  kind  needs  fertilizers  of  a  very 
fine,  rich  character.  Indian  corn  will  feed  on 
coarse,  unfermented  manure,  which  would  be 
very  poorly  adapted  to  the  growth  of  wheat. 
All  gbod  wheat  growers  agree  also  on  this  point, 
that  winter  wheat  requires  a  firm  soil ;  and  ex¬ 
perience  proves  that  soils  ,  of  this  character, 
yield  the  best  crops  of  wheat.  The  light,  porous, 
and  mucky  soils  found  on  most  of  our  table 
lands  do  not  produce  as  large  crops  of  winter 
wheat  as  many  of  the  slopes  and  undulating 
portions  of  the  country.  However,  good  farm¬ 
ers  are  learning  that  by  plowing,  harrowing  and 
manuring,  a  fair  crop  may  be  obtained  where 
the  soil  is  naturally  quite  inferior  and  not  adapt¬ 
ed  to  the  production  of  winter  wheat. 

In  preparing  oats  or  barley  stubble  for  win¬ 
ter  wheat,  it  should  be  plowed  at  least  two 
weeks  previous  to  the  time  of  putting  in  the 
seed.  If  the  soil  is  thin,  let  the  common  plow 
run  only  as  deep  as  the  soil  extends;  then  break 
up  and  pulverize  the  subsoil  with  the  subsoil 
plow,  instead  of  turning  up  too  much  of  the 
barren  soil  from  below.  (Read  the  article  on 
page  246.)  The  best  time  for  putting  in  winter 
wheat  is  usualh'  about  the  first  of  September. 
Let  the  compost,  or  rotted  manure,  be  hauled 
and  deposited  in  small  conical  heaps  over  the 
field.  Allowing  that  five  bushels  are  enough 
for  one  square  rod,  when  spread  evenly,  and 
that  there  are  twenty  five  bushels  in  a  two-horse 
wagon  load,  thirty-two  loads  will  manure  one 
acre  abundantly  for  a  good  crop  of  wheat,  if  the 
manure  is  made  of  the  droppings  of  work  horses 
and  oxen,  and  fattening  bullocks  and  sheep 
that  have  consumed  more  or  less  coarse  grain. 
Now  spread  the  manure  evenly  on  about  one 
acre,  and  bury  it  and  mingle  it  with  the  soil 
with  a  two-horse  cultivator  run  about  four  inch¬ 
es  deep.  Go  over  it  three  or  four  times ;  and  if 
there  are  any  lumps,  use  the  roller  to  crush 
them.  The  aim  should  be  to  mingle  the  ma¬ 
nure  thoroughly  with  3  or  4  inches  in  depth  of 
the  best  soil,  and  to  have  that  depth  finely  pul¬ 
verized,  so  that  the  grain  may  have  not  only  a 
good  seed  bed  to  germinate  in,  but  be  supplied 
with  an  abundance  of  available  nourishment  for 
promoting  the  growth  of  the  young  plants,  so 
that  they  may  acquire  a  large  growth,  or  mass 
of  roots  before  winter.  This  will  be  an  excel¬ 
lent  security  against  “  heaving  out  ”  by  freez¬ 
ing  and  thawing,  and  it  will  also  prepare  the 
plants  for  starting  early  the  following  spring.  * 


In-and-in  Breeding. 


There  is  probably  no  greater  folly  that  the 
common  stock  raiser  can  be  guilty  of,  than 
breeding  from  animals  close  akin.  The  results 
are  in  almost  all  cases  unfortunate,  and  tend  to 
the  degradation  of  his  stock.  This  is  true  of 
horses  and  neat  cattle  especially,  of  sheep  es- 
sentiallj',  of  swine  in  a  less  degree,  but  still 
noticeably ;  and  in  the  case  of  fowls  and  pigeons, 
the  evil  results  are  more  quickly  seen  than  in 
any  other  classes,  perhaps.  In-and-in  breeding, 
where  most  carefully  conducted,  has  produced 
very  favorable  results ;  but  this  was  under  the 
direction  of  men  who  gave  their  lives,  with 
severe,  assiduous  study  of  animals  and  their 


points,  their  differences  of  constiiiuion  and 
temperament,  of  form,  size,  etc.;  and  who  were 
also  possessed  of  an  intuition  as  to  which 
animals  would  cross  well.  In  those  herds,  too, 
where  in-and-in  breeding  has  been  successfully 
practised,  it  must  be  remembered  that  tlie  re¬ 
lative  numbers  of  males  and  females  approaclied 
much  nearer  a  natural  standard,  than  is  ever 
profitable  in  economic  stock  raising.  If  any  one 
wishes  to  see  how  quickly  he  can  run  down  a 
superior  flock  or  herd,  let  him  undertake  to 
imitate  Bakewell  on  a  small  scale. 


Cutting  Feed  for  Farm  Stock. 


The  winter  is  before  us ;  the  fairs  are  at  hand, 
and  opportunities  to  select  the  best  kinds  of 
hay,  straw,  and  stalk  cutters  are  offered  to  farm¬ 
ers.  We  have  for  a  long  time  taken  every  op¬ 
portunity  to  give  the  weight  of  our  influence  in 
favor  of  cutting  up  and  soaking,  or  cooking  feed 
for  all  farm  stock,  except  sheep.  In  the  hope 
of  stirring  up  some  of  our  readers  to  introduce 
straw  and  stalk  cutters  upon  their  farms,  we 
print  the  following  from  “H.  A.  W.,”  of  Chautau¬ 
qua  Co.,  N.  Y.,  M'ho  goes  further  than  we  do  in 
advocating  cut  feed  for  sheep.  We  have  no  doubt 
it  is  excellent  for  fattening  sheep. — He  writes; 

“Prom  long  experience  and  continued  exper¬ 
iments,  I  am  fully  persuaded  in  my  own  mind, 
and  think  it  needs  but  little  proof  to  demonstrate 
that  coarse  feed  for  cattle  should  be  cut,  or 
chopped,  and  to  a  certain  degree  cooked,  that 
they  may  receive  the  full  benefit.  For  eighteen 
years  I  have  personally  superintended  my  farm 
stock,  and  practised  more  or  less  the  cutting  of 
food  for  all,  but  more  especially  for  the  horses, 
of  which  there  were  at  all  times  three,  and 
sometimes  four  in  the  stable.  There  were  also 
5  to  12  head  of  cattle,  and  from  12  to  35  sheep. 
The  cattle  and  sheep  w’ere  sheltered  during  all 
storms,  after  they  came  to  the  yards  in  the  fall. 
The  horses  had  each  one  bushel  of  cut  straw, 
which  was  placed  in  a  tight  box  and  sprinkled 
with  4  quarts  of  corn  and  oat  meal  (equal  parts 
mixed  and  ground  fine,)  and  wet  with  boiling 
hot  water,  the  whole  well  mixed,  covered  tight¬ 
ly  and  left  to  soak  12  hours.  The  feed  for  all 
the  horses  was  mixed  at  once.  I  believe  one 
bushel  of  this  feed  is  sufficient  for  one  feeding 
of  a  horse  from  1000  to  1100  lbs.  weight.  I 
never  feed  but  twice  a  day,  mornings  and  even¬ 
ings.  Observation  convinces  me  that  3  lbs. 
cooked  meal  is  equal  to  5  lbs.  raw.  I  have  fed 
almost  every  kind  of  grain  to  horses,  and  they 
relish  all  when  prepared  in  this  way.  I  feed 
regularly,  whether  at  work  or  idle.  My  horses 
are  always  fat,  and  ready  for  a  drive  of  5  or  50 
miles  a  day,  as  necessity  requires.  It  is  a  fact 
that  horses  will  perform  more  labor  on  cut  and 
cooked  than  on  long  and  uncooked  feed.  So  will 
cows  produce  a  greater  flow  of  milk  on  such 
feed.  Sheep  produce  more  wool  and  healthier 
lambs,  when  fed  with  such  feed,  than  when  fed 
otherwise.  In  February  of  1864, 1  sold  to  the 
butcher  seven  wethers,  coming  two  years  old  in 
May  following,  for  45  dollars.  They  had  been 
fed  regularly  fiom  December  1st  up  to  the  time 
of  sale.  There  cannot  be  a  question  with  the 
careful  observer  and  experimenter,  but  that  cut 
and  cooked  food  is  from  one  fourth  to  one  third 
cheaper.  One  ton  of  straw  and  five  bushels  of 
corn  ground  fine,  the  straw  cut  and  soaked,  with 
the  meal,  will  keep  a  horse  in  better  condition 
than  one  ton  of  hay.  No  enterprising  farmer 
who  cuts  his  fodder  will  go  back  to  old  ways.” 
[Corn  stalks  well  cured,  cut  and  wet  up  with  a 
little  meal,  are  equal  to  good  hay,  for  feeding.] 


280 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[Septembeb, 


What  makes  a  Horse  Vicious. 


There  is  no  disguising  the  fact  that  vicious- 
ness  is  innate  with  some  horses.  It  is  no  doubt 
sometimes  hereditary,  and  follows  some  of  the 
best  strains  of  blood  we  have.  That  viciousness 
should  accompany  a  highly  nervous  organiza¬ 
tion  is  not  to  be  wondered  at.  Hence  it  causes 
no  surprise  when  we  find  such  dispositions 
among  the  finely  organized  thoroughbreds — 
animals  of  a  most  sensitive  and  nervous  organ¬ 
ization — from  which  the  common  expression 
“  thin  skinned,”  as  applied  to  a  too  sensitive 
man,  is  obviously  derived.  The  treatment 
horses  receive,  and  the  moral  atmosphere  in 
whicli  tliej  are  thrown,  have  a  much  greater 
influence  than  most  horsemen  are  generally 
inclined  to  admit.  The  pinching,  tickling, 
boisterous  stable  boy,  who  auuoys  a  spirited 
horse  for  the  sake  of  enjoying  his  futile,  though 
almost  frantic  kicks  and  leers,  i^  affecting  the 
disposition  of  the  horse  and  his  descendants 
for  generations  to  come,  besides  putting  in 
jeopardy  the  lives  and  limbs  of  those  wlio  are 
brouglit  in  contact  with  the  horse  so  tampered 
with.  A  horse  is  surely  influenced  by  the 
psychological  character  of  tire  men  with  whom 
ho  associates. — A  passionate  man  will  have  a 
baulky  horse;  a  slow,  plodding  brolhci',  one  of 
his  own  style ;  and  so  the  u(p.’vous,  quick,  busy 
hian’s  liorse  will  show  the  same  qualities. — So 
noticable  is  tliis,  that  we  have  often  remarked 
that  the  family  horse’s  of  our  neighbors,  as  they 


are  changed  one  after  another,  very  soon  fall 
into  the  very  gait  and  style  of  their  predecessors 
in  the  same  stables.  'Were  rules,  similar  to  the 
one  which  Herbert  quotes,  followed  by  all 
English  horse  breakers,  from  the  time  of  Queen 
Bess  down,  it  would  indeed  be  a  wonder,  if  a 
good  natured  horse  could  be  found  in  the  king¬ 
dom.  This  rule  of  a  Norfolk  horse-trainer  of 
Queen  Elizabetli’s  time  reads  as  follows : 

“If  your  horse  does  not  stand  still,  or  hesitates,  then 
alrate  him  with  a  terrible  voyce  ;  and  beat  him  yourself 
with  a  good  sticke  upon  the  iiead  between  lire  ears ;  then 
stick  him  in  the  spurring  place  iii  or  iiii  times  together, 
with  one  legge  after  another,  as  fast  as  your  legges  might 
waik  :  your  legges  must  go  like  two  bouncing  beetles.” 

This  is  too  much  the  English  and  Irish  style 
of  horse  breaking.  The  grooms,  or  horse  train¬ 
ers  get  angry  and  thrash,  kick,  buffet,  and  bang 
a  horse  till  they  make  him  as  angry  as  possible, 
and  soon  spoil  his  temper  for  life ;  we  fiave 
no  doubt  the  bad  tempers  too  common  in  English 
horses  may  be  chiefly  attributed  to  this  cause. 
On  the  continent  of  Europe  there  are  large 
numbers  of  English  horses  (thoroughbreds) 
kept  and  bred  pure  for  the  sake  of  crossing  with 
other  heavier  breeds,  and  producing  large  but 
active,  graceful  and  spirited  cari'iag'e  horses 
for  the  monarchs,  or  nobility.  Whoever  has 
been  through  these  studs  must  have  noticed 
how  free  almost  all  the  horses,  even  the  old 
stallions,  appeared  to  be  from  any  thing  like 
viciousness.  The  same  thing  is  seen  in  the 
Southern  States,  where  thoroughbred  horses 
are  milch  more  common  than  With  us  at  the 


North.  The  genile  hand- 
ling  of  the  negro  has  wrought 
a  change  in  the  disposition 
of  the  horse,  while  his  spirit 
and  pluck,  and  the  strong 
nervousness  of  his  organiza¬ 
tion  remain,  marked  charac¬ 
teristics  of  the  breed. — It  is 
possible  by  severe  treatment, 
by  pain  and  torture,  to  break 
the  spirit  of  a  horse,  and  to 
rule  him  by  fear,  keeping 
him  in  subjection  by  the  fear 
of  the  rod,  yet  this  will  never 
make  him  less  vicious,  but 
rather  will  add  treachery  to 
vice,  in  destroying  the  truly 
noble  and  affectionate  qual¬ 
ities  which  are  natural  to 
him.  If  these  qualities  are 
assiduously  cultivated  in 
colts  and  young  horses,  vi¬ 
ciousness  will  much  more 
rarely  appear  than  under 
other  treatment.  Sometimes, 
however,  it  is  necessary  to 
conquer  a  bad  tempered 
horse,  and  if  possible  to  se-  ' 
cure  a  radical  conversion,  or 
change  of  character,  which 
shall  be  lasting.  N  o  timorous 
man  need  undertake  this 
task;  he  will  only  make 
matters  worse.  A  horse 
tamer  should  be  fearless — 
the  horse  will  know  it ;  he 
should  be  quiet,  for  then  the 
horse  will  be  put  ofl'  his 
guard;  he  should  be  firm 
and  give  the  brute  no  ad¬ 
vantage,  but  crowd  him  up 
to  doing  something,  and  that, 
inevitably  what  the  tamer 
Wants  him  to  do.  Thus  any 
ordinary  horse  will  soon  give 
up  and  own  man,  his  master.  The  kindest  treat¬ 
ment  and  even  petting  must  always  follow  yield¬ 
ing;  and  if  possible  to  help  it,  the  horse  should 
never  be  frightened  by  any  treatment,  and 
above  all  things,  he  should  not  be  angered  by 
petty  torture.  His  own  contrariness  should  ap¬ 
pear  to  him  to  be  the  cause  of  all  his  trouble, 
and  man,  his  best  friend.  This  principle  is  at 
the  foundation  of  Earey’s  successful  practice, 
detailed  in  the  Agriculturist  for  February,  1861. 

—  ^  <  11^  C  Wi'  >  ^ . .  . 

When  to  Select  Seed  Potatoes^ 


The  best  time  to  select  seed  potatoes  is,  when 
they  are  dug.  As  soon  as  they  are  brought  to 
the  surface  and  lie  spread  on  the  ground, 
the  best  can  be  selected  with  less  difficulty  than 
at  any  other  time.  Those  that  are  perfectly 
matured,  and  of  good  shape,  having  the  marked 
characteristics  of  the  variety,  and  good  aver¬ 
age  size,  should  be  selected  for  seed,  in  pre¬ 
ference  to  those  of  any  other  qualities.  They 
should  then  be  placed  in  boxes  or  barrels,  and 
kept  where  they  will  not  be  injured  by  freezing 
or  by  warmth.  If  seed  potatoes  are  saved  in 
this  manner  for  a  few  years  in  succession,  we 
have  no  doubt  a  decided  improvement  will  be 
observed  in  the  yield  per  acre,  as  well  as  in  the 
quality  of  the  crops.  And  we  tliink  this  practice 
will  also  be  found  an  effectual  security  against 
small  ones,  and  a  good  defence  against  the  rot. 
When  potatoes  first  come  from  the  ground,  the 
skins  have  a  clearness,  which  they  soon  lose. 


18(35.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


Q81 


The  New  Japanese  Lily. 

{Lilium  cmratum.) 

How  much  our  florists 
owe  to  Japan ;  and  tlie 
debt  has  been  greatly 
increased  by  the  gift  of 
'  the  Gold-banded  Lily, 

Lilium  auratum.  All 
horticulturists  will  re¬ 
member  the  excitement 
produced  by  the  advent 
of  Lilium  lancifolium, 
which  is  now  called  the 
Japan  Lily,  though  we 
have  several  otliers  from 
that  country.  The  one 
under  consideration  is 
likely  to  become  quite  as 
popular,  and  the  two 
together  are  enough  to 
put  us  under  everlasting 
obligations,  horticultur- 
ally,  to  that  land  of  flue 
flowers  and  queer  peo¬ 
ple.  Like  its  beauti¬ 
ful  predecessor,  tliis  lily 
was  for  a  while  held  at 
a  price  which  kept  it 
beyond  the  reach  of  or¬ 
dinary  cultivators,  $40  a 
bulb  having  been  asked 
for  it  when  first  intro¬ 
duced.  Last  spring,  the 
price  was  $5,  and  as  it 
can  be  rapidly  multi¬ 
plied,  we  have  no  doubt 
that  next  spriug  it  will 
be  sold  at  a  great  reduc¬ 
tion  from  this.  We  have 
only  seen  the  plant  in 
pot-culture  where  it  is  of  course  somewhat 
drawn  up  and  bears  fewer  flowers  than  it  will 
in  the  open  ground.  It  grows  two  feet  or  more 
high  and  bears  from  one  to  four  or  five  enor¬ 
mous.  flowers.  The  sliape  of  tlie  leaves  and 
flower  is  shown  in  the  engraving,  though  of  a 
much  reduced  size.  Tlie  flower  from  whicli  the 
drawing  was  taken  measured  8  inches  across, 
and  we  have  measured  those  which  were  11 
inches  across  without  stretching  out  the  curved 
petals.  Tlie  engraving  shows  the  lily  before  it 
attains  its  greatest  expansion ;  then  the  form 
becomes  more  irregular,  three  of  the  petals 
standing  nearly  erect;  below  these,  two  are 
stretched  out  horizontally,  while  the  other  one 
hangs  directly  down  in  front.  We  call  all  the 
parts  petals,  as  in  the  lilies  they  are  colored 
alike,  thougli  there  are  three  outer  and  three 
inner  ones  corresponding  to  calyx  and  corolla. 
The  petals  are  beautifully  undulating  upon  the 
edges  and  are  gracefully  recurved,  the  three 
outer 'ones  being  much  narrower.  They  are  of 
a  pure  white,  marked  by  dots  of  a  rich  brown ; 
these  dots  near  the  end  of  the  petal  being  on  a 
level  with  its  surface,  but  toward  tlie  middle 
they  become  elevated,  and  near  the  base  they 
form  short  coarse  hairs.  But  the  most  promi¬ 
nent  marking  of  the  flower  is  the  broad  central 
stripe  of  clear  yellow,  running  through  the 
length  of  each  petal,  which  in  the  sun  give  it  a 
brilliancy  that  well  merits  the  name  of  Gilded 
or  Gold-banded.  The  stamens  and  pistil  have 
a  graceful  curve  and  the  general  effect  is  hight- 
ened  by  the  rich  cinnamon-brown  color  of  the 
pollen  with  which  the  anthers  are  coveredk 
Added  to  all  this  stateliness  and  beauty,  the 


LILIUM  AURATUM. 

flower  has  a  rich  and  pleasing  fragrance,  a  qual¬ 
ity  so  often  lacking  in  showy  flowers.  We  have 
no  doubt  that,  like  the  older  favorite  above  men¬ 
tioned,  this  will  prove  perfectly  hardy  and  we 
shall  soon  see  it  in  every  garden.  Like  all  the 
scaly  bulbs,  this  lily  is  propagated  with  the 
gi’eatest  ease,  the  scales  being  broken  from  the 
bulb  and  treated  just  like  cuttings.  We  have 
had  fine  flowers  this  season  from  William  Chorl- 
ton,  StaJen  Island  ;  I.  Dingwall,  Albany ;  James 
Hogg,  Yorkville;  1.  Buchanan,  Astoria,  all  in 
N.  Y.,  and  from  Peter  Henderson,  Jersey  City ; 
Bril!  &  Kumerle,  Newark,  New  Jersey;  and 
B.  K.  Bliss,  Springfield,  Mass. 


Currants,  Varieties  and  Culture. 


People  who  live  in  the  city  can  have  nice 
currants  by  paying  from  15  to  20  cents  per 
pound,  while  hard,  small  and  unripe  things  can 
be  had  at  5  cents  for  the  same  quantity.  Those 
who  live  in  the  country  can  have  the  very  best 
as  long  as  the  season  lasts,  by  a  little  expense 
in  getting  a  start,  and  a  little  trouble  thereafter. 
A  most  wholesome  fruit  is  the  currant,  and  its 
sharp  acid  is  very  grateful  in  the  hot  days  in 
which  it  comes.  The  currant  belongs  to  the 
genus  Bibes,  which  furnishes  us  both  the 
Gooseberry  and  Currant.  Gooseberries  have 
prickly  stems  and  their  flowers  and  fruit  in 
small  clusters,  while  currants  have  stems  with¬ 
out  prickles,  and  their  flowers  and  fruit  in  long 
racemes,  or  strings.  Of  the  currants  there  are 
several  species,  the  varieties  of  which  are  more 
or  less  cultivated.  Ribes  jloridum  is  our  native 
black  currant,  and  Ribes  riigriim  the  European 


one,  both  of  which  have 
very  unpleasant  fruit 
and  foliage,  though  val¬ 
ued  medicinally  ahd 
otherwise  by  some  peo¬ 
ple.  Ribes  aureum  is  the 
Buffalo,  or  Missouri  cur¬ 
rant,  often  cultivated  in 
gardens  as  an  ornament¬ 
al  shrub,  for  its  early 
sweet-scented  flowers. 
Its  varieties,  the  Mis¬ 
souri  sweet-fruited  and 
the  Utah  currant  have 
mawkish  and  indifferent 
fruits.  Much  has  been 
written  about  the  Utah 
currant,  of  which  there 
are  black,  yellow  and 
red  kinds,  and  all  equal¬ 
ly  worthless  here,  al¬ 
though  they  may  have 
a  value  in  Utah.  It  is 
to  the  species  Ribes  ru- 
h'um.,  that  we  are  in¬ 
debted  for  all  the  valu¬ 
able  garden  varieties, 
red,  white,  striped,  etc., 
but  for  our  purpose 
we  may  consider  only 
the  red  and  the  white. 
Like  all  our  cultivated 
fruits,  the  seeds  give 
plants  differing  in  many 
particulars  from  the 
parent,  hence  many  va¬ 
rieties  have  been  pro¬ 
duced.  Our  catalogues 
contain  so  long  a  list  of 
names,  that  one  is  puz¬ 
zled  what  to  choose,  and 
the  beginner  will  be  pleased  to  know  that  the 
difference  between  them  is  much  greater  in  print 
than  in  the  plants  themselves,  and  that  a  list  of 
five  will  comprise  all  that  are  really  desirable. 
The  scope  of  the  variation  is  so  small,  that  one 
in  going  over  a  collection  of  20  varieties  will  al¬ 
most  be  tempt¬ 
ed  to  say  that 
there  are  only 
two  sorts  of 
currants,  red 
and  white.  Yet 
this  is  not  the 
case,  for  there 
is  a  difference 
in  both  I'ed  and 
white  currants, 
and  we  have 
very  great  im¬ 
provements  up¬ 
on  both  the  old 
red  and  wdiite 
Dutch,  if  not  in 
flavor,  at  least 
in  size  of  berry 
and  bunch.  We 
will  enumerate 
a  few  of  ivhat 
seem  to  us  the  leading  varieties,  and  leave  our 
readers  to  make  a  choice  among  them — remark¬ 
ing  that  our  notes  refer  to  varieties  under  good 
culture.  The  best  varieties,  if  neglected,  will 
produce  but  poor  fruit,  while  the  common  sorts, 
properly  cultivated  and  pruned,  will  give  a 
satisfactory  yield.  The  currant  will  survive  any 
amount  of  neglect,  but  the  fruit  of  any  of  the 


Fig.  1.— VERSAILLES. 


V 


Q8S 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTtJRISl\ 


[September, 


varieties,  under  these  circumstances,  will  bear 
no  comparison  with  that  from  the  same  kind 
when  properly  manured,  pruned  and  mulched. 

As  it  is  no  more  trouble  to  grow  the  best  sorts 
than  poorer  ones,  we  omit  all  notice  of  the 
Red  and  White  Dutch,  and  give  a  few  descrip¬ 
tive  notes  on  the  improved  and  larger  sorts. 

Red  Varieties. —  Versailles. — This  is  often 
called  in  the  catalogues  “La  Versaillaise,”  but  as 
Versailles  is  a  word 
which  has,  in  mea¬ 
sure,  become  adopted 
into  our  language,  we 
prefer  it.  This  is  one 
of  the  largest  as  well 
as  one  of  the  best. 
It  is  an  enormous 
bearer,  and  its  berries 
are  very  uniform  and 
of  large  size.  A 
drawing  of  the  actual 
size,  in  good  cultiva¬ 
tion,  is  shown  in  fig. 
1.  We  have  mea¬ 
sured  single  berries 
of  this  variety  that 
were  2i  inches  cir¬ 
cumference.  It  is  of 
good  flavor,  not  too 
sour,  and  sufficiently 
earl}'.  The  cherry 
currant  equals  it  in 
size, but  is  much  more 
acid.  The  variety 
sent  out  as  Fertile 
d’Angers  does  not 
seem  to  be  very  dis¬ 
tinct  from  the  Versail¬ 
les,  at  any  rate  the 
difference  is  not  suffi¬ 
cient  to  warrant  the  keeping  of  two  names. 

Fertile  de  Paluau. — This  comparatively  recent 
variety  we  consider  next  in  excellence  to  the 
Versailles,  and  it  will  give  general  satisfaction. 
The  bush  has  an  upright  habit,  and  is  a  strong 
grower;  the  fruit,  though  not  so  large  as  the 
preceeding,  is  large  enough,  is  in  long  bunches, 
tender  and  of  good  flavor.  A  bunch  of  the 
natural  size  is  sliowm  in  figure  2. 

Victoria. — A  variety,  which  ripens  late.  Its 
bunches  are  very  long;  its  fruit,  taken  before  it 
is  fully  I'ipe,  is  very  sour,  but  when  in  perfec¬ 
tion,  is  of  good  flavor,  and  valuable  for  its  pro¬ 
ductiveness  and  lateness. 

We  might  mention  many  others,  for  which 
superiority  in  some  respect  is  claimed,  but  these 
three  will  be  enough  of  the  red  sorts  for  one 
garden.  Intermediate  between  the  red  and 
white  are  the  Champaigne,  remarkable  for  its 
pink  color;  and  the  Striped-currant,  which  has 
recently  come  out  with  the  high  sounding  name 
of  Gloire  de  Sablous.  It  is  curious  for  its 
stripes,  but  as  a  fruit  it  is  sour  and  worthless. 

WmTE  Varieties. — There  are  some  who 
say  they  can  see  no  difference  in  white  currants. 
They  are  all  much  sweeter  than  the  red  ones, 
and  we  think  appreciably  differ  in  quality. 

WhiU  Orape. — Forall  good  qualities  we  doubt 
if  any  variety  excels  this  comparatively  old 
sort.  It  is  much  better  every  way  than  the 
White  Dutch,  and  the  bush  has  a  different  habit. 

Attractor. — This  variety  was  perhaps  over¬ 
praised  some  years  ago,  but  it  is  nevertheless  a 
very  meritorious  sort.  It  has  a  peculiar  narrow 
toothed  leaf,  and  a  large  berry  in  a  rather  short 
bunch.  To  our  taste  it  is  the  sweetest  and  best 
of  the  White  Currants  now  disseminated. 


Fig.  2.  fertile  de  paluau. 


White  Provence. — This  is  not  much  cultivated. 
The  bush  has  a  good  habit  and  the  leaves  are 
generally,  but  not  always,  edged  with  white  or 
yellow.  The  fruit  is  large  and  handsome,  but 
has  not  as  good  flavor  as  the  above  varieties. 

White  Transparent. — A  large  bunch  and  ber¬ 
ry,  but  it  is  much  more  acid  than  the  others. 

While  this  list  does  not  include  all  that  have 
been  commended  by  good  judges,  it  contains 
suflScient  from  which  to  make  a  good  selection. 

Cultivation. — As  currants  will  grow,  and 
bear  something,  in  spite  of  total  neglect,  many 
people  are  not  aware  of  the  benefit  it  is  to  any 
variety  to  give  it  the  best  possible  chance  for 
developement.  Manuring,  pruning  and  mulch¬ 
ing  will' work  wonders  with  the  currant;  an 
annual  manuring  is  essential  to  successful  cul¬ 
ture,  and  if  large  fruit  is  desired,  the  bushes 
should  be  prdperly  pruned,  and  during  the 
fruiting  season,  heavily  mulched.  Plants  one 
or  more  years  old  can  be  procured  from  the 
nurseries,  or  they  may  be  raised  with  the  great¬ 
est  ease  from  cuttings.  Portions  of  wood  of 
this  year’s  growth,  set  this  fall,  will  give  good 
plants  next  year.  Having  obtained  cuttings, 
about  a  foot  long,  from  a  reliable  source,  remove 
with  a  sharp  knife  all  but  the  three  upper  buds, 
and  set  them  in  good  soil  with  the  buds  above 
the  surfiice.  Take  particular  care  to  press  the 
soil  closely  in  contact  with 
the  lower  end  of  the  cut¬ 
ting.  The  next  year  the 
object  should  be  to  get 
one  good  and  strong  up¬ 
right  shoot.  Select  the 
shoot  from  the  bud  that 
pushes  strongest,  and  train 
it  to  a  stake,  pinching  back 
the  others.  In  this  way 
plants  with  a  strong  single 
stem  will  be  obtained, 
which  are  to  be  planted 
out  5  feet  distant  each 
way,  in  autumn.  The 
next  spring  the  treatment 
will  depend  upon  the 
mode  of  training  adopted, 
w’hich  may  be  the  tree, 
pyramid,  or  vase  method. 

To  train  a  bush  in  the 
tree  style,  remove  all  buds 
so  as  to  leave  a  clean 
stem  from  6  inches  to  a 
foot  above  the  surface  of 
the  ground,  and  then  cut 
the  top  back,  so  as  to 
leave  three  strong  buds; 
these  will  form  three 
branches,  wdiich  are  al¬ 
lowed  to  grow  during  the 
season,  and  the  next  year 
are  cut  back  to  two  buds 
each,  which  will  give  a 
round  headed  tree  of  six 
branches,  each  of  which 
are  afterwards  to  be  cut 
back  one  half,  and  have  all  superfluous  shoots 
trimmed  out.  To  train  a  currant  bush  on  the 
pyramidal  system,  treat  just  as  described  for 
the  dwarf  pear  in  January  last,  and  follow  a 
similar  method  of  summer  pinching. 

The  vase-form  of  training  consists  in  having 
several  main  branches  with  fruit-bearing  side 
shoots,  and  is  preferred  by  many  good  cultiva¬ 
tors.  To  practise  this,  cut  back  a  one  year  old 
plant  of  a  single  stem,  to  four  or  six  buds.  En¬ 
courage  the  growth  from  these,  and  if  necessary 
train  them  to  a  hoop,  to  ensure  an  equal  spread¬ 


ing  of  these  main  branches.  These  upi’ight 
stems  may  throw  out  side  branches  the  first 
year,  or  not  until  the  second,  in  either  ease  they 
should  be  pinched  back  to  4  inches,  when  they 
get  to  be  6  or  8  inches  long.  If  any  shoot  after¬ 
wards  pushes  from  a  side  branch,  pinch  back  to 
a  single  leaf.  By  training  bushes  in  this  form  M'ith 
the  centre  kept  open,  fine  fruit  can  be  raised. 

- — — »■»- - 

Herbaceous  Perennials— Easily  Cultiva¬ 
ted,  and  Adapted  to  Every  Garden. 

The  most  brilliant  effects  of  color  in  the  flow¬ 
er  garden  can  undoubtedly  be  produced  by 
means  of  bedding  plants  and  annuals,  but  they 
both  involve  a  great  deal  of  trouble.  Unless 
one  has  a  green-house  in  which  to  grow  a  stock 
of  geraniums,  verbenas,  and  other  bedding 
plants,  there  is  quite  an  outlay  in  procuring  a 
supply  each  spring  from  the  florists,  while  with 
annuals  the  sowing  and  transplanting  require  a 
great  deal  of  care,  which  is  only  repaid  by  one 
short  season  of  bloom.  To  be  sure  there  are 
many,  of  both  annuals  and  the  tender  bedding 
plants,  that  w'e  would  not  do  without,  but  we 
do  not  like  the  custom,  which  has  obtained  of 
late  years,  of  running  altogether  to  these,  to  the 
neglect  of  the  herbaceous  perennials,  which  are 
constant  friends,  and  though  frost  destroys 
their  tops,  their  roots  remain  year  after  year. 
These  plants  do  not  demand  the  constant  fussing 
with  seeds,  pots,  and  cuttings,  that  the  others  do. 
All  the  care  they  ask  is  that  the  roots  be  taken 
up  and  divided  •when  the  clumps  become  too 
large.  The  herbaceous  perennials  are  propa¬ 
gated  in  different  ways ;  by  division  of  the  root, 
by  cuttings,  and  by  seed,  and  our  object  is  now 
to  call  attention  to  some  of  those  which  may  be 
most  readily  raised  from  the  seed.  As  a  gener- 
.  al  thing  these  plants  do  not  flower  the  year 
they  are  sown.  The  usual  way  is  to  sow  the 
seed  ill  the  spring,  and  when  the  plants  get 
strong  enough,  to  set  them  where  they  are  to 
remain,  and  they  will  usually  flower  the  second 
year.  Another  method  is,  to  sow  the  seeds  in 
August  or  September,  thin  the  plants  well  and 
allow  them  to  grow  in  the  seed  bed  until  cold 
weather,  M'hen  they  are  covered  with  leaves  or 
other  litter,  and  transplanted  the  following 
spring.  That  this  late  planting  will  answer 
with  all  perennials  we  are  not  prepared  to  state, 
but  we  have  had  it  succeed  with  a  large  num¬ 
ber.  The  seeds  of  some  of  these  plants  is  ex¬ 
ceedingly  small,  and  such  require  some  care  to 
get  them  up ;  they  should  be  but  very  slightly 
covered  with  very  fine  soil,  and  the  row  be  cov¬ 
ered  during  the  heat  of  the  day  with  a  strip  of 
board  to  keep  the  soil  from  drying  out.  The 
following  list  comprises  some  of  the  most  de¬ 
sirable  plants  of  this  class,  but  it  may  be  very 
much  extended  by  consulting  the  catalogues, 
which  are  annually  published  by  the  seedsmen. 

Aqiiilegia,  the  Columbine;  for  a  note  on  some 
of  the  varieties  and  species,  see  page  156  (May). 

Campanula,  the  Bell-flower,  which  includes 
the  old-fashioned  Canterbury  Bells,  and  many 
newer  and  beautiful  ones.  The  blue  and  white 
C.  grandiflora,  are  very  handsome,  as  are  the 
C.  persicifolia,  and  its  varieties.  G.  pyrainidalis 
is  tall  and  showy,  while  G.  Carpathica,  and  oth¬ 
ers  are  nice  dwarf  plants  and  very  free  bloomers. 

Gatananche,  an  exceedingly  beautiful  genus 
of  plants  of  the  flvmily  Composite,  for  which 
there  is  no  popular  name.  They  are  free  bloom¬ 
ers  and  have  brilliant  Aster-like  flowers  with 
silvery  scales  to  the  involucre,  which  render  the 
heads  very  pretty  after  the  flowers  have  fallen. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ACRTOULTURIST, 


28S 


The  varieties  cmrulea,  bicoloi\  and  alba^  are  good. 

Delphinium^  or  Larkspur,  in  its  many  species 
and  varieties,  gives  us  flowers  from  nearly  wliite 
to  the  darkest  violet,  some  of  the  blues  being 
exceedingly  pure  and  beautiful.  Delphinmm 
Jormosum,  Hendersoni,  Gmlestium^  and  Ela- 
tum  may  be  mentioned  as  among  the  best. 

Dodecatheon,  the  American  Cowslip,  of  which 
there  is  but  one  species,  D.  Meadia,  which  is 
pink,  and  a  white  variety.  This  is  a  native 
■which  ought  to  be  much  more  cultivated  than 
it  is,  for  the  beauty  and  singularity  of  its  flowers. 

Iberis,  the  annual  Candytuft,  is  well  known, 
but  a  perennial  species,  sempervirens,  is  but  lit¬ 
tle  cultivated.  It  has  flowers  much  like  the 
annual  one,  and  comes  in  flower  very  early  in 
spring  and  continues  for  a  long  while. 

Lupinus. — There  are  several  garden  peren¬ 
nial  species  of  the  Lupin.  Lupinus  polyphyl- 
lus,  is  one  of  the  most  showy,  and  our  native, 
Lupinus  perennis  should  not  be  forgotten. 

Lychnis.— There  are  many  showy  ones  in  this 
genus,  and  they  are  of  easy  culture. 

(Enothera,  the  Evening  Primrose.  One  of  the 
best  of  these  is  (E.  macrocarpa  (sometimes 
called  Missouriensis),  a  dwarf  spreading  species 
with  enormous  flowers.  Tlie  much  praised 
(Enothera  Lamai'ckiana,  is  very  large  flow¬ 
ered,  but  grows  tall,  coarse  and  weedy. 

Papaver. — Among  the  perennial  Poppies  we 
have,  Papaver  bacteatum,  orange  crimson, 
P.  nudicale,  yellow,  and  P.  oriemtale,  scarlet 
with  large  black  blotclies  on  the  base  of  petals. 

Pentstemon. — This  is  a  fine  genus  of  peren¬ 
nials,  some  of  which  are  perfectly  hardy  and 
others  require  protection.  The  garden  names 
are  unfortunately  so  confused  that  we  are  una¬ 
ble  to  designate  all  the  hardy  ones  with  accura¬ 
cy.  A  paper  of  mixed  seeds  will  give  a  num¬ 
ber  of  hardy  one.s. 

Phloxes. — The  perennial  Phloxes  are  among 
the  most  popular  garden  plants,  and  a  great 
number  of  named  seedlings  are  sold.  The 
seeds  in  the  catalogues  are  called  Phlox  hybrida, 
and  Plilox  decussata,  and  if  they  can  be  had 
from  a  good  stock,  many  fine  and  well  marked 
seedlings  may  be  raised. 

Potentilla. — The  names  of  garden  sorts  of 
these  are  very  much  confused,  and  it  is  as  well 
to  buy  the  mixed  seeds. 

Pyrethrum. — Very  showy  and  free  flowing 
plants  with  brilliant  aster-like  flowers,  which 
continue  long  in  bloom.  Mixed  seeds  are  best. 

Verba.scum. — A  tall  and  rather  showy  species 
of  Mullein,  V.  pyramidalis,  for  large  grounds. 

In  this  list  we  have  merely  indicated  a  few 
good  perennials,  and  recommend  onr  flower 
growing  readers  to  turn  their  attention  toward 
these  plants.  Many  of  the  biennials,  such  as 
Digitalis,  Lunaria,  Dianthus,  and  others  which 
we  have  not  space  to  enumerate,  may  also  be 
sown  this  month  in  the  same  manner,  and 
make  good  plants  for  blooming  next  year. 

- - —I  %  »■■■' — - 

Notes  on  Grapes  and  Grape  Culture. 


Generally  this  has  been  a  discouraging  year 
for  grape  growers,  tlie  crop  in  many  cases  being 
a  total  fiiilure.  The  burthen  of  numerous  let¬ 
ters  is,  “what  is  the  matter  with  my  grapes?” 
and  these  communications  are  frequently  ac¬ 
companied  by  specimens  of  leaves,  shoots  and 
fruit,  showing  some  of  the  various  troubles  to 
which  the  vine  is  subject.  One  specimen  was 
sent,  in  which  the  leaf  h^d  upon  its  upper  sur¬ 


face  a  number  of  rough  warts  the  size  of  a 
small  pea,  each  one  of  which  contained  a  grub. 
We  have  seen  this  upon  the  grape  only  once 
before,  and  have  not  been  able  to  trace  its  de- 
velopement  and  find  the  insect  in  its  perfect 
state.  A  number  of  specimens  of  the  disease 
alluded  to  on  page  351  (August),  have  been  sent. 
This  seems  to  be  a  rot,  which  appears  on  the 
young  wood,  soon  destroying  its  vitality,  and 
ultimately  affecting  the  fruit.  We  know  of  two 
instances,  in  which  this  was  noticed  in  time  and 
its  spread  prevented  by  immediately  removing 
all  the  diseased  parts.  The  rot  has  made  sad 
havoc,  especially  with  the  Catawba  and  Con¬ 
cord.  A  fine  vineyard,  which  we  saw  last  3mar 
bearing  hundreds  of  bushels  of  fine  Catawbas, 
has  not  a  bushel  of  fruit  this  year,  and  similar 
accounts  come  to  us  from  other  places.  Mildew 
has  made  unprecedented  ravages,  and  in  many 
cases  has  destrojmd  the  crop.  Sulphur,  when 
applied  in  time,  has  been  found  to  check  its 
progress.  The  bellows  which  was  figured  in 
July  has  been  advertised  in  some  of  the  jour¬ 
nals,  and  we  have  heard  bitter 
complaints  from  those  who  have 
ordered  and  failed  to  receive 
them.  One  must  be  deficient  in 
mechanical  tact,  if  he  could  not 
fit  up  some  contrivance  to  serve 
as  a  substitute.  One  gentleman, 
who  procured  a  bellows  in  time, 
informs  us  that  he  saved  some 
thousands  of  vines  by  the 
prompt  application  of  sulphur. 

Each  j^ear’s  experience  shows 
the  importance  of  a  proper  sys¬ 
tem  of  training  the  vine.  Where 
the  vine  is  kept  within  bounds, 
as  in  the  arm  and  spur  method, 
with  the  canes  and  laterals  prop¬ 
erly  pinched,  the  leaves  attain 
a  strength  and  a  firm  texture 
which  enable  them  to  resist 
mildew  and  those  diseases  caus¬ 
ed  by  sudden  atmospheric 
changes  much  better  than  do 
those  vines  that  are  allowed  to 
grow  nearly  at  random.  An¬ 
other  benefit  resulting  from  the 
arm  and  spur  training  is,  the 
free  circulation  of  air  it  affords, 
provided  of  course  that  the  trel¬ 
lis  is  not  in  a  confined  situation. 

The  overfruiting  of  young  vines 
prevents  their  attaining  proper 
vigor,  and  renders  them  less  able  to  resist  dis-  t 
ease  another  year.  In  many  cases  the  trouble  ' 
with  the  vine  is  a  wet  subsoil,  and  the  want  of 
a  proper  drainage  is  particularly  felt  in  such 
a  wet  season  as  the  present  has  been.  We  have 
a  number  of  letters  in  praise  of  the  Delaware 
as  a  vigorous  grower  and  abundant  bearer.  As 
this  variety  may  be  considered  to  have  establish¬ 
ed  its  reputation  as  a  first  class  grape  in  every 
respect,  we  should  be  glad  if  our  correspondents 
would  give  their  experience  with  the  newer 
kinds.  One  writer  states  that  he  had  Delaware 
vines  from  two  sources,  and  that  the  two  lots 
were  planted  in  the  same  soil  with  equal  care. 
The  vines,  which  had  much  the  stronger  look¬ 
ing  roots,  made  a  growth  less  than  a  quarter  of 
that  made  by  the  other  lot,  and  our  correspond¬ 
ent  asks  the  reason.  We  think  that  the  reason 
is  to  be  attributed  to  the  difference  in  cultivation 
the  first  year.  In  one  case  the  roots  had  to  go 
far  for  nourishment,  and  made  long  and  simple 
roots  with  but  few  small  branches,  while  in  the 
other  case  the  soil  was  better  and  the  roots  more 


finely  divided.  In  i-egard  to  the  article  in 
August  upon  the  roots  of  vines  in  pot  and  open 
culture,  we  did  not  wish  to  be  understood  as 
saying  that  good  vines  cannot  be  grown  in  pots, 
for  we  know  that  tliey  can  be,  but  we  wished 
to  show  that  the  bedding  plan  rvas  free  from 
the  difficulties  attending  the  use  of  pots  when 
the  latter  w'as  carelessly  practised.  The 
question  often  occurs,  if  vines  grown  through 
the  season  under  glass,  are  likely  to  be  as  hardy 
as  those  grown  partly  in  the  open  air.  We 
think  thatthey  are  if  properly  managed,  and  the 
propagator,  who  uses  glass,  is  enabled  to  guard 
against  mildew,  which  so  often  attacks  and 
weakens  young  vines  planted  out  of  doors. 
Our  advice  to  those  who  contemplate  purchas¬ 
ing  largely  is,  to  visit  the  different  propagating 
establishments  while  the  young  stock  is  grow¬ 
ing,  and  examine  the  condition  of  the  vines  be¬ 
fore  the  leaves  have  fallen  ;  they  will  thus  be 
able  to  see  what  care  is  used  in  their  cultivation, 
and  to  judge  something  of  the  quality  of  vines. 
- - - — - - 


The  Horse-Nettle,  a  Terrible  Weed. 

{Solanum  Caroliniense.) 

This  plant,  which  is  a  native  of  the  South, 
has  heretofore  only  been  found  in  a  few  locali¬ 
ties  in  the  Northern  States.  A  specimen  was  re¬ 
cently  sent  for  a  name  from  Eipley  Co.,  Ind.;  it  is 
said  to  bespreading  in  that  direction,  and  we  are 
reminded  of  the  necessity  of  illustrating  the 
plant,  in  order  that  it  may  be  known  at  once 
wherever  it  makes  its  appearance.  The  only 
place  where  we  have  seen  this  weed  was  near 
Westchester,  Pa.,  where  it  was  pointed  out  to 
us  by  the  late  venerable  Dock  Darlington,  and 
where  we  obtained  the  specimen  from  which 
our  late  friend,  A.  O.  Moore,  made  the  drawing 
for  the  accompanying  illustration.  Tlie  engrav¬ 
ing  shows  the  prickly  character  of  the  plant, 
and  the  shape  of  the  leaves  and  flowers,  though 
the  flower  cluster  is  usually  more  full  and 
conspicuous,  and  the  prickles,  which  are  upon 
both  leaves  and  stem,  are  even  more  abundant 


284 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[September, 


and  formidable  than  are  here  shown. 

The  Solanum,  or  Night-shade  Fam¬ 
ily,  to  which  this  plant  belongs,  is 
quite  remarkable  for  the  widely 
different  character  of  its  mem¬ 
bers.  While  on  the  one  hand  it 
furnishes  ns  with  the  useful  Potato, 

Tomato,  and  Egg-plant,  it  on  the 
other  hand  produces  the  poisonous 
Stramonium,  Henbane,  and  Tobac¬ 
co.  The  plant  under  consideration 
may  or  may  not  be  poisonous,  but 
it  is  certainly  pestiferous.  Its  per¬ 
ennial  roots,  when  once  establish¬ 
ed,  are  very  difficult  to  destroy, 
and  as  its  prickly  stems,  which 
grow  about  a  foot  high,  keep  ani¬ 
mals  of  all  kinds  at  a  respectful 
distance,  the  plant  soon  gets  pos¬ 
session  of  the  soil,  and  forms  patch¬ 
es  where  it  luxuriates  to  the  exclu¬ 
sion  of  all  other  vegetation.  Dr. 

Darlington,  who  had  some  ex¬ 
perience  with  it,  informed  us  that 
he  considered  it  the  worst  of  all 
weeds.  The  plant  is  not  without 
beauty,  as  its  blue,  or  white  flow¬ 
ers,  as  well  as  its  round  orange  yel¬ 
low  berries,  are  quite  showy.  Let 
no  one  be  deceived  by  the  good 
looks  of  this  or  the  Bladder  Cam¬ 
pion,  noticed  elsewhere,  but  whenever  they  ap¬ 
pear,  let  them  be  thoroughly  exterminated. 
This  plant  is  sometimes  mistaken  for  the  Canada 
Thistle,  but  differs  much  from  it  in  appearance.* 


The  Kittatinny  Blackberry. 

In  October  last  we  published  an  engraving  and 
some  account  of  a  new  variety  of  blackberry, 
called  the  Kittatinny.  At  Mr.  Williams’  request 
we  again  visited  the  plants  in  the  present  fruiting 
season,  and  are  quite  satisfied  that  we  did  not, 
in  the  article  referred  to,  overestimate  its  good 
qualities.  It  is  very  hardy,  a  great  bearer, 
and  ripens  its  fruit  gradually  through  a  period 
of  six  or  eight  weeks.  The  berries  are  very 
large,  sweet,  and  of  most  excellent  flavor,  and 
possess  the  great  merit  of  being  ripe  when  they 
are  black.  If  this  variety  proves  as  good  else¬ 
where  as  it  does  in  the  neighborhood  where  it 
originated,  it  will  become  very  popular.  A  plant 
of  this  variety  set  out  last  fall  in  the  grounds 
of  one  of  the  editors,  on  Long  Island,  made 
a  most  promising  show  of  fruit  this  season. 
- - -  - - - 

Cultivating  the  Pansy. 

.  We  have  many  complaints  of  want  of  success 
with  the  Pansy.  The  general  cause  of  failure  is 
owing  to  the  fact,  that  when  the  seed  is  sown  in 
the  spring  the  plants  do  not  get  large  enough 
to  bloom  before  hot  weather,  and  as  they  can¬ 
not  endure  the  heat  of  our  midsummers,  unless 
in  a  favorably  shaded  spot,  they  will  dwindle 
and  give  an  unsatisfactory  bloom,  and  often  die 
out  altogether.  The  best  plan  is,  to  take  a  hint 
from  the  way  in  which  the  plant  sows  its  own 
seeds,  which  it  does  as  soon  as  they  are  ripe. 
Seeds  sown  this  month,  will  make  strong  plants 
before  winter.  At  the  approach  of  cold  weather, 
cover  them  with  leave.s,  or  other  light  litter. 
Much  better  results  may  be  obtained  if  they  are 
transplanted  to  a  cold  frame,  where  they  will 
flower  very  early  in  spring.  When  a  choice 
variety  is  raised  from  seed,  it  is  readily  contin¬ 
ued  by  propagating  by  layers  or  by  cuttings. 


Moss  Hoses. 

FJoriculture  produces  nothing  more  beautiful 
than  a  Moss-rose  bud.  To  be  in  perfection  the 
bud  must  be  just  on  the  point  of  expansion, 
when  the  swelling  petals  have  spread  apart  the 
divisions  of  the  calyx  and  show  their  pure  rose 
tint  in  a  setting  of  delicate  green  moss-like 
fringe.  To  those  who  reall3"  admire  Moss-roses 
it  may  seem  as  unsentimental  as  to  give  the 
chemical  analysis  of  a  tear,  or  an  anatomical 
and  physiological  account  of  a  smile,  to  say  that 
all  this  beauty  is  produced  by  an  abnormal 
growth  of  the  flower  cup,  and  that  these 
roses  are  only  accidental  varieties  of  common 
roses ;  yet  such  is  the  fact,  and  the  lovely  mossi¬ 
ness  which  we  so  much  admire  is  as  much  a  su¬ 
perfluity  as  the  extra  toe  of  a  Dorking  fowl. 
The  Moss-rose  is,  supposed  to  have  been  intro¬ 
duced  into  England  from  Holland,  more  than  a 
century  ago,  and  for  a  long  time  there  was  only 
one  variety  known.  Of  late  years,  however, 
the  number  of  varieties  have  been  greatly  in¬ 
creased,  and  we  have  in  the  catalogues  over  50, 
varying  in  color  from  white  to  dark  purplish 
crimson.  The  little  outgrowths  of  the  calyx 
which  produce  the  mossy  appearance  in  these 
roses,  are  small  leafy  excresences,  which  differ 
very  much  in  size  and  abundance  in  the  differ¬ 
ent  varieties.  On  some  ferns  a  similar  phenom¬ 
enon  is  observed,  and  we  have  the  cristate,  or 
crested,  varieties  of  several  species.  Generally 
the  “moss”  of  the  rose  is  so  very  fine  that  it 
could  not  be  represented  in  our  rapidly  printed 
pages,  but  there  is  one  variety  called  the  Crest¬ 
ed  Moss  in  which  it  is  very  coarse  and  conspic¬ 
uous  and  this  one  we  have  had  engraved.  The 
specimen  from  which  the  drawing  was  taken 
was  from  a  fine  collection  of-  roses  presented  at 
our  strawberry  show,  by  Wm.  H.  Burgess,  Glen 
Cove,  N.  Y.  This  variety  is  said  to  have  been 
found  in  Switzerland ;  it  presents  a  beautiful 
appearance  in  the  bud,  and  is  one  of  the  prized 
Moss-roses.  It  is  curious  to  notice  that  in  this  va¬ 
riety,  the  leaf  shows  the  same  disposition  to  pro¬ 
duce  the  abnormal  mossy  growth  as  the  flower 


does — a  fact  not  to  be  wondered  at,  when  we 
consider  that  the  calyx  lobes  are  leaf-like  in 
their  nature.  All  the  varieties  of  the  Moss-rose 
need  a  rich,  light  and  well  drained  soil  for 
their  best  development.  Among  the  best  va¬ 
rieties  are :  Princess  Adelaide,  Salet,  White 
Moss,  Capt.  John  Ingram,  Common  Blush, 
Crested,  Glory  of  Mosses,  Countesse  de  Mu- 
rinais,  Duchesse  d’Ystrie  and  Luxembourg. 


Notes  on  Strawberry  Culture.— Answers. 


If  there  be  any  who  think  we  devote  an  un¬ 
due  amount  of  space  to  the  matter  of  small 
fruits,  they  must  recollect  that  it  is  a  subject  that 
interests  every  one  who  has  a  piece  of  ground, 
be  it  a  city  lot,  or  a  large  farm.  While  the  very 
large  sums  which  are  annually  paid  for  small 
fruits,  makes  their  culture  important  as  a 
remunerative  branch  of  industry,  there  is 
nothing  that  would  so  add  to  the  comfort  and 
promote  the  health  of  our  farming  community, 
as  an  abundant  supply  of  strawberries,  raspber¬ 
ries,  currants,  blackberries  and  grapes.  We 
judge  from  our  correspondence  of  the  subjects 
our  readers  feel  most  interested  in,  and  it  is  safe 
to  say,  that  half  of  the  letters  of  inquiry  we  have 
received  this  season,  have  been  in  reference  to 
the  culture  of  small  fruits.  We  have  now  be¬ 
fore  lissome  20  letters,  all  upon  the  strawberry. 
If  we  were  to  answer  each  of  these  in  a  basket 
item,  there  would  be  too  many  strawberries  in 
one  basket,  so  we  will  make  a  general  article, 
treating  the  subject  so  as  to  answer  as  well  as 
may  be,  the  different  queries.  In  the  first  place, 
■we  have  three  kinds  of  flowers  among  straw¬ 
berries:  perfect  or  hermaphrodite,  which  have 
both  stamens  and  pistils;  the  pistillate  in  which 
the  stamens  are  poorly  developed,  or  wanting  ; 
and  the  barren,  orstaminate  in  which  the  pistils 
are  imperfect.  The  perfect  or  hermaphrodite 
are  self  fertilizing,  while  the  pistillate  ones  need 
to  have  perfect  flowers  near  them  to  enable 
them  to  bear.  Staminate,  or  barren  flowers  oc¬ 
cur  rarely  and  are  of  no  use  except  to  fertilize 
pistillates,  an  ofiBce  which  can  as  well  be  done 
by  hermaphrodites.  The  correspondent  whose 
“Plovey’s  seedling”  he  has  in  vain  tried  to  fer¬ 
tilize  with  several  other  varieties,  may  not  have 
the  Hovey  at  all,  as  he  procured  his  plants  of  a 
travelling  peddler.  Boston  Pine  is  the  kind 
much  used  with  the  Hovey,  around  Boston,  and 
the  Early  Scarlet  and  others  are  also  used. 

In  garden  culture  we  think  it  best  to  plant  in 
beds  four  feet  wide,  putting  one  row  of  plants 
in  the  center  and  a  row  on  each  side  of  the 
center  one,  18  inches  distant  from  it ;  the  plants 
are  to  be  12  to  18  inches  apart  in  the  ro'u's. 

September  is  the  most  favorable  month  for 
autumn  planting,  as  the  young  plants  from  run¬ 
ners  are  stronger  than  they  are  in  August,  and 
there  is  still  a  sufficiently  long  growing  season, 
to  enable  them  to  get  well  established  before 
winter.  A  bed  set  now,  in  rich  and  well  pr^.. 
pared  soil,  will  give  a  fair  crop  next  year.  The 
notion  which  at  one  time  prevailed,  that  straw¬ 
berries  were  injured  by  high  culture  is  well 
nigh  abandoned.  An  excess  of  coarse,  crude 
manure  is  injurious,  but  they  will  do  all  the 
better  for  a  generous  supply  of  rich  compost. 
Barnyard  manure,  well  decomposed,  suits  them 
admirably.  In  garden  culture  it  is  best  to  keep 
all  the  runners  clipped  ofli  When  cold  weather 
sets  in,  give-  the  beds  a  mulch  of  any  kind  of 
litter,  taking  care  not  to  cover  the  plants  too 
heavily.  In  field  culture,  where  the  w'ork  is  to 
be  done  in  part  by  the  horse,  the  rows  are  three 
or  four  feet  asunder  and  the  plants  set  one  foot 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Q85 


apart  iu  the  rows.  In  many  places  a  kind  of 
alternating  system  is  practised.  The  rows  be¬ 
ing  set  as  above  described,  the  runners,  as  they 
form,  are  placed  parallel  with  the  rows,  where 
they  take  root,  and  form  a  dense  mass  one  or 
two  feet  wide.  One  crop  of  fruit  is  taken  from 
the  vines  thus  grown,  and  the  space  between 
the  rows  is  then  plowed,  running  the  plow  so 
as  to  leave  the  rows  of  vines  8  or  10  inches  in 
width.  The  ground  is  harrowed,  and  the  plants 
allowed  to  run  as  before.  The  plants  are  treated 
in  this  manner  as  long  as  they  are  fruitful,  the 
number  of  crops  depending  upon  the  variety, 
and  when  the  yield  begins  to  decline,  the  space 
between  the  rows  is  prepared,  and  the  runners 
allowed  to  form  in  it.  After  these  are  establish¬ 
ed,  the  original  rows  are  plowed  under,  and  the 
new  ones  formed  by  the  runners  cultivated  as  be¬ 
fore.  Another  method  of  field  culture  some¬ 
what  in  vogue  is,  to  set  the  plants  in  the  spring 
and  take  one  crop  from  them  the  following  year, 
then  plow  the  plants  under  and  commence  anew. 

Many  complaints  have  come  to  us  of  the  de¬ 
predations  of  grubs  and  worms.  Both  lime  and 
soot  are  said  to  be  useful  in  the  case  of  the  wire 
worm.  Where  the  ground  is  infested  by  the 
large  white  grub  of  the  May-bug,  we  know  of 
no  help.  This  grub  is  most  apt  to  occur  in  sod 
recently  turned  under.  This  insect  lives  for 
some  three  years  as  a  grub,  and  is  often  very 
troublesome  to  the  strawberry.  It  is  some  satis¬ 
faction  to  know  that,  after  having  abounded  in 
a  field,  they  will  frequently  disappear  entirely. 
A  small  greenish  worm,  has  been  sent  us 
from  several  parts  of  New  York  State,  as 
proving  very  destructive  to  the  leaves  of  straw¬ 
berry  plants.  We  have  not  been  able  to  ascer¬ 
tain  what  the  perfect  state  of  this  insect  is. 
Prom  the  appearance  of  the  larva  we  should 
try  the  effect  of  a  dusting  of  white  helle¬ 
bore.  The  numerous  inquiries  respecting 
varieties  are  nearly  all  answered  in  previous 
articles.  We  hear  some  complaints  that  the 
“  Agriculturist  ”  has  not  made  runners,  but  we 
know  on  the  other  hand  that  in  many  cases  the 
plants  have  multiplied  finely.  There  seems  to 
be  something  untoward  in  the  season,  as  other 
varieties,  which  usually  propagate  freely,  have 
made  scarcely  any  runners.  With  respect  to 
the  “Agriculturist,”  it  was  bought  entirely  on 
account  of  its  remai’kable  appearance  as  exhi¬ 
bited  here,  and  was  sent  to  our  subscribers  at 
almost  no  cost  to  themselves,  and  the  accounts 
thus  far  show  that  it  has  generally  done  well, 
though,  as  was  to  be  expected,  among  the  many 
thousands  of  plants  sent  out  to  widely  distant 
places,  there  have  been  some  failures.  It  is 
quite  amusing  to  see  how  conspicuously  some 
of  the  agricultural  papers  have  noticed  instances 
in  which  this  variety  for  some  cause  has  failed. 
Don’t  be  jealous  brethren,  but  look  about  and 
find  something  better,  and  we  will  help  you 
introduce  it.  One  person  at  the  summer  meet¬ 
ing  of  the  Fruit  Growers’  Society  of  Western 
New  York,  indulged  himself  in  a  growl  at  the 
fact  of  the  berry  being  called  the  “  Agricultu¬ 
rist.”  Though  the  matter  is  of  very  little  con¬ 
sequence,  we  would  state  that  the  name  was 
applied  to  it  not  by  ourselves,  but  by  a  Fruit 
Growers’  Association  which  meets  in  this  city. 


Gazania  Splendens.— When  this  plant  first 
came  out  we  did  not  think  very  favorably  of  it, 
but  after  another  yeai's’  trial  we  are  disposed  to 
regard  it  as  a  valuable  addition  to  our  stock  of 
bedding  plants.  One  great  merit  is  the  length 
of  time  its  flowers  continue,  the  same  flowers 
opening  day  after  day  for  two  or  three  weeks. 


The  flower  is  shaped  something  like  a  common 
ox-eye  daisy,  but  the  rays  are  an  inch  long—, 
and  of  a  bright  golden,  or  nearly  orange  color. 
Near  the  bottom  of  each  ray  is  a  nearly  black 
spot,  with  a  white  line,  and  the  whole  forms  a 
very  brilliant  and  pleasing  contrast  of  color. 


TME  lE[(D)I[J§IglH®lL©. 


Tears  ago,  when  people  m.ade  fewer  conundrums 
than  they  do  now,  it  used  to  be  asked  “  when  is  a 
cook  like  a  dancing  master.”  The  answer  was, 
“  when  he  cuts  capers.”  It  is  probable  that  m.any 
of  our  readers  have  no  idea  at  all  of  what  a  caper 
is,  and  would  fail  to  see  the  point  of  the  quibble. 
There  are  many  trivial  luxuries  that  are  mainly 
confined  to  the  large  cities  and  the  more  wealthy, 
and  without  which  farmer-folks  can  manage  to  live 
very  comfortably.  These  include  many  articles  used 
in  cooking  that  are  not  food,  but  only  serve  as  sea- 
souiug  ;  for  these  in  the  aggregate,  large  sums  are 
annually  paid,  and  capers  are  among  them.  Capers 
come  to  us  in  odd  looking,  long  and  narrow  wide¬ 
mouthed  bottles,  and  look  at  a  little  distance  like 
pickled  peas  ;  upon  examination  they  will  be  found 
to  be  not  perfectly  round,  but  somewhat  larger  at 
one  end  than  the  other,  and  to  have  a  short  stem 
at  the  larger  end.  Kidges  are  seen  upon  the  sur¬ 
face,  and  if  one  of  these  capers  be  carefully  picked 
open  it  will  be  seen  to  be,  what  it  really  is,  the 
bud  of  a  flower.  The  plant  which  produces  capers 
is  Capparis  spinosa,  a  iow  straggling  shrub  which 
grows  wild  iu  the  South  of  Europe,  where  it  is 
also  largely  cultivated.  The  engraving  shows  a 
small  branch,  with  leaves,  buds,  and  a  flower.  The 
buds  are  picked  when  they  are  about  half  grown, 
by  women  and  children,  who  find  it  no  pleasant 
task,  on  account  of  the  prickles  which  are  found  at 
the  base  of  each  leaf.  The  picking  continues 
throughout  a  good  part  of  the  year,  each  day’s 
gathering  being  put  into  casks  and  covered  with 
vinegar  to  which  some  salt  has  been  added.  When 
the  season  is  over,  the  capers  are  assorted  into  sev¬ 
eral  sizes  by  means  of  selves,  .and  put  into  fresh 
vinegar  and  exported  in  bottles  or  small  casks. 
The  plant  is  half  h.ardy  in  England,  and  would 
doubtless  succeed  iu  some  of  our  southern  States. 
Capers  have  a  peculiar  aromatic  taste  and  have 
been  employed  as  a  pickle  for  hundreds  of  years  : 
their  chief  use  at  present  is  to  mix  with  drawn 
butter  to  form  a  sauce  for  boiled  mutton.  The 
fruit  of  the  garden  Nasturtium  {Tropeolum)  is  often 
used  as  a  substitute,'  as  also  is,  in  England,  the 
fruit  of  the  Caper  Spurge  {Euphorbia  Lathyris). 
We  should  doubt,  however,  about  the  safety  of  the 
last  mentioned  substitution,  as  the  plant  belongs 
to  a  family  producing  many  very  poisonous  plants. 


“Tim  Bunker  on  Curing  Pickles  and 
Eating  Them.” 

Mr.  Editor. — “It  beats  all  what  a  fuss  folks  are 
making  about  pickles,”  said  Seth  Twiggs,  walking 
into  our  house  one  hot  July  night,  and  taking  his 
se.at  on  the  settee,  where  he  was  soon  lost  in  his 
favorite  cloud  of  smoke.  “One  would  think,”  he 
continued,  “that  cucumbers  was  a  new  crop  just 
imported  from  China,  or  some  other  furreign  parts, 
iusted  of  beiu  as  old  as  the  Bible.  They’re  havin’ 
a  run  about  equal  to  Multicaulis  and  Rohan  potato. 
I’m  bound  to  say.” 

Speaking  of  Seth  Twiggs’  smoking,  reminds  me 
that  I  owe  an  apology  to  your  readers  perhaps,  to 
all  the  anti-tobacco  part  of  them  in  particular,  that 
'  I  have  said  so  much  about  his  habit.  For  you  see 
the  thing  is  mighty  catching.  No  sooner  had  I 
got  the  fashion  set  in  the  Agriculturist  than  all  the 
letter  writers  in  the  politic.al  papers  took  it  up  and 
every  time  they  bring  out  their  hero.  General  Gr.ant, 
they  must  tell  just  how  many  times  and  how  he 
smokes.  Ton  see  the  General  has  not  made  his 
appearance  in  public  since  he  got  to  be  a  great  man 
without  his  cigar.  The  public  are  supposed  to  be 
interested  in  knowing  just  the  length  of  his  cigar, 
whether  it  is  a  long  nine  or  not,  its  color,  its  cost, 
and  the  particular  brand  the  General  uses.  Jake 
Frink  s.ays,  “  the  tobacco  men  have  bought  up  the 
General  or  his  letter  writer,  and  all  this  fuss  about 
his  smoking  is  an  advertising  dodge  to  get  their 
cigars  into  market.  It  is  a  mean  abolishun  trick  to 
r.aise  the  price  of  tobacco,  and  he  ’spects  it’ll  git  to 
be  so  high  that  common  folks  can’t  have  a  chaw 
except  on  Fourth  of  July,  or  some  sich  special 
occasion.” 

I  think  there  is  considerable  sense  in  what  Jake 
says.  Hookertown  don’t  care  a  rush  whether  the 
General  smokes  or  not,  whether  he  smokes  dollar 
cigars  or  steeped  cabbage  leaves,  whether  he  smokes 
quietly  or  puffs  away  like  a  locomotive.  The  Gen¬ 
eral’s  business  has  been  fighting,  1  take  it,  for  the 
last  few  years,  and  if  he  had  used  half  the  tobacco 
the  letter  writers  have  gin  him  credit  for,  he 
wouldn’t  have  had  any  brains  left  to  plan  a  cam¬ 
paign.  They  have  run  the  thing  into  the  ground. 

Seth  Twiggs’  case  is  different.  His  business  is 
smoking.  If  he  has  any  other  business,  nobody 
has  been  able  to  find  it  out.  He  cultivates  a  little 
land,  works  in  the  garden  some,  and  tinkers  round 
a  good  deal,  but  this  is  only  his  amusement.  The 
solid  work  on  which  he  lays  himself  out  is  smok¬ 
ing.  Now  a  man  who  assumes  “the  solemn  re¬ 
sponsibility”  of  writing  for  the  papers,  as  Mr. 
Spooner  would  say,  must  regard  the  truth  of  his¬ 
tory.  The  fact  is,  the  Hookertown  public  wouldn’t 
know  Seth  Twiggs  without  his  pipe,  and  I  had  to 
introduce  Seth’s  pipe  or  say  nothing  about  him. 

I  like  to  have  forgot  Seth  on  the  settee.  “  I’ll 
bet  there  is  fifty  acres  in  pickles  in  Hookertown, 
this  year,”  he  added. 

“  Some  folks  are  in  great  trouble  as  to  how  they’ll 
cure  ’em,”  I  remarked. 

“  Du  tell,”  exclaimed  Polly  Frink,  “  I  thought 
every  body  knew  how  to  salt  down  cowcumbers.” 
“Not  by  a  jug  full,”  said  I.  “It  is  treated  as  a 
great  secret  at  the  pickle  factories,  and  stores,  and 
you  might  as  well  undertake  to  get  ile  out  of  a 
Wall  Street  Petroleum  Company,  as  to  get  any 
light  on  the  curing  process  out  of  them.” 

“  I  guess  you  didn’t  go  to  the  right  place.  Esq. 
Bunker.  For  when  I  went  down  to  the  city  to 
market  my  pickles  I  went  all  over  the  factory.” 

“And  what  did  you  see,”  I  asked.  “Well  I  saw 
a  lot  of  vats,  barrels,  kegs,  jars,  and  bottles,  some 
of  ’em  full  and  some  of  ’em  empty.”  “  Did  you 
ask  any  questions  and  did  you  get  civil  answers  ?” 

“  Sartainly  I  did,  lots  on  em.  And  I  found  out 
there  want  any  secret  about  the  brine,  for  it  is  the 
same  rule  my  grandmother  used  to  go  by,  and  I 
guess  it  is  about  the  same  thing  every  housekeeper 
in  Hookertown  uses  to  day,  brine  strong  enough  to 
bear  an  egg,  and  the  little  pickles  to  lie  iu  two 
weeks,  and  the  big  ones  three,  that  is  about  the 
whole  of  it,  with  a  little  variation  to  suit  circum¬ 
stances.” 

“  Jest  so,”  said  Mrs.  Jake  Frink,  “that  is  my 


286 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Sbptembbh, 


rule,  and  I  never  knew  it  to  fail.  I’ve  got  pickles 
two  years  old  now,  and  they  are  jest  as  good  as 
ever.  Ye  see  I  aller’s  keeps  my  barrel  open  at  the 
top,  with  a  round  board  and  a  stone  to  keep  the 
pickles  in  the  brine.  For  a  barrel  of  pickles  you 
want  je.st  about  a  peck  of  coarse  s.alt.  Turk’s  Island 
is  the  best,  dissolved  in  water.  That  will  jest  about 
float  an  egg.  If  I  want  to  keep  them  a  long  time 
in  the  brine,  I  look  at  ’em  occasionally,  and  add 
a  little  more  salt,  if  I  tliiuk  they  need  it.” 

“  And  what  is  to  be  done  when  you  want  to  put 
them  into  vinegar  ?”  I  enquired. 

“Oh,  that  is  easy  euough.  You  jest  scald  the 
cucumbers  in  a  brass  kettle,  and  let  them  stand  a 
few  hours,  changing  the  water  two  or  three  times 
to  take  the  salt  out.  You  can  tell  by  the  taste 
when  they  are  fresh  enough.” 

“  What  do  you  have  a  brass  kettle  for  ?” 

“  They  say  it  makes  ’em  green.  My  mother  al¬ 
ways  used  a  brass  kettle.” 

“And  how  is  it  about  the  poison  ?” 

“Well,  I  never  heard  of  it’s  hurting  anybody. 
If  you  have  good  cider  vinegar,  the  green  pickles 
will  be  wholesome  enough.  Every  body  in  Hook- 
crtown  cures  ’em  in  this  way,  and  we  are  not  an 
ailin’  set  of  people.” 

Aunt  Polly  is  right  about  the  vessel  for  freshen¬ 
ing  the  pickles.  A  good  deal  more  depends  upon 
the  vinegar  than  upon  the  vessel,  and  I  suspect  the 
brass  kettle  with  its  trace  of  verdigris  is  made  to 
answer  for  all  the  atrocious  compounds  they  put 
into  the  vinegar.  The  slops  of  the  rum  shops  and 
drinking  saloons,  sulphuric,  and  other  mineral 
acids,  are  put  in  liberally  to  give  sharpness  to  the 
vinegar.  This  must  be  injurious  to  the  stomach, 
and  I  suspect  it  istopreveut  the  publicfrom  learn¬ 
ing  the  composition  of  the  vinegar,  that  the  pickle 
men  aflfect  so  much  mystery  about  their  business. 

Farmers  have  no  apology  for  using  any  thing  but 
home  made  vinegar  and  pickles.  They  can  always 
have  the  best,  and  plenty.  A  cucumber  is  little  else 
than  thickened  water,  a  sort  of  sponge  to  hold  vin¬ 
egar.  If  good,  it  supplies  the  vegetable  acid  for 
which  the  system  has  so  strong  a  craving  in  hot 
weather.  The  doctors  tell  us  it  regulates  the  bile, 
and  for  ouee  I  guess  the  doctors  are  about  right, 
lu  the  absence  of  fruits,  which  arc  not  always  to  be 
had,  keep  pickles  on  your  table  the  year  round. 
Hookertown,  Conn.,  j  Yours  to  coininaiKl, 

July  lOf/i,  1865.  )  Timothy  Bunker  Esq. 


Substitute  for  Glass  Windows. 


It  sometimes  happens  that  one  would  be  glad  to 
close  a  window  so  as  to  admit  light,  and  yet  has  no 
glazed  sash  that  he  can  use,  and  it  may  be  he  does 
not  consider  the  object  worthy  the  expense.  A 
simple  piece  of  stout  muslin  tacked  upon  a  frame 
makes  a  very  fair  substitute.  It  excludes  the  wind 
and  insects,  and  admits  the  light.  After  tacking  it 
upon  the  frame  it  may  be  varnished  with  a  mixture 
of  boiled  linseed  oil  and  copal  varnish,  thinned 
with  turpentine.  This  will  make  it  water  tight,  so 
that  rains  will  not  wet  through,  and  more  translu¬ 
cent.  Where  there  is  such  a  window,  and  no  dan¬ 
ger  of  violence,  very  thin,  clieap  muslin  may  be 
used.  Wlieu  it  is  tacked  on,  the  edges  should  be 
tucked  under  and  a  tape  laid  over  them,  through 
which  the  tacks  arc  driven  quite  close  together. 


Preserving  Flowers  in  their  Natural  Form. 

In  the  Ayricidlurist  for  June,  1864,  page  Ibl,  was 
given  .an  account  of  a  method  of  drying  flowers  in 
sand  which  we  had  jiractised  with  modeiate  suc¬ 
cess,  but  as  our  results  were  not  equal  in  beauty 
to  the  imported  dried  flowers,  or  to  those  prepared 
here  by  persons  wlio  make  it  a  business,  we  stated 
that  there  were  some  details  of  tlie  process  that 
were  kept  secret.  Wc  find  the  following  account 
in  one  of  our  European  exchanges,  from  the  Jour¬ 
nal  of  the  Society  of  Arts,  wliich  is.  said  to  be  the 
]>rocess  followed  by  those  who  prepare  the  dried 
flowers  for  sale.  Tlie  sand  used  for  the  purpose 
should  be  passed  through  a  seive  to  remove  the 


coarse  particles,  then  thoroughly  washed  until  the 
water  passes  off  clean,  aud  be  completely  dried  be¬ 
fore  adding  the  stearin e.  Stearin e  is  the  substance 
from  which  the  hard  or  “  Adamantine  ”  candles  are 
made,  aud  may  be  had  at  the  large  drug  stores, 
aud  caudle  manufactories,  or  steariue  candles  them¬ 
selves  may  be  used  for  this  purpose. 

“  A  vessel,  with  a  movable  cover  is  provided, 
and  haviug  removed  the  cover  from  it,  a  piece  of 
metallic  gauze  of  moderate  fineness  is  fixed  over  it, 
aud  the  cover  replaced.  A  quantity  of  sand  is 
then  taken,  suflicient  to  fill  the  vessel,  and  passed 
through  a  sieve  into  au  iron  pot,  where  it  is  heated, 
with  the  addition  of  a  small  quantity  of  stearine, 
carefully  stirred,  so  as  to  thoroughly  mix  the  in¬ 
gredients.  The  quantity  of  stearine  to  be  added 
is  at  the  rate  of  lb.  to  100  lbs.  of  sand.  Care 
must  be  taken  not  to  add  too  much,  as  it  would 
sink  to  the  bottom  and  injure  the  flowers.  The 
vessel,  with  its  cover  on,  aud  the  gauze  beneath  it, 
is  then  turned  upside  down,  aud  the  bottom  being 
removed,  the  flowers  to  be  operated  upon  are  care¬ 
fully  placed  on  the  gauze  aud  the  sand  gently 
poured  in,  so  as  to  cover  the  flowers  entirely,  the 
leaves  being  thus  prevented  from  touching  each 
other.  The  vessel  is  then  put  in  a  hot  place,  such, 
for  instance,  as  the  top  of  a  baker’s  oven,  where  it 
is  left  for  48  hours.  The  flowers  thus  become  dried, 
aud  they  retain  their  uatur.vl  colors.  The  vessel 
still  remaining  bottom  upwards,  the  lid  is  taken  off, 
aud  the  sand  runs  .away  through  the  gauze,  le.aving 
the  flowers  uninjured  in  their  natural  shape.” 


Preserving  Green  Corn. 

There  are  three  ways  recommended  for  preserv¬ 
ing  green  corn  for  winter  use.  The and  sim¬ 
plest  is  packing  the  husked  ears,  picked  while  in 
the  milk,  in  barrels,  aud  tilling  them  up  with  good 
clear  strong  brine,  (best  made  by  first  dissolving 
the  salt,  then  scalding,  skimming  and  cooling.)  The 
second  way  is  to  pick  corn  a  little  older  than  most 
people  prefer  for  eating  green,  aud  parboil ;  then 
split  the  rows  with  a  sharp  knife,  cut  or  scrape  the 
kernels  off,  and  dry  them  either  in  the  sun  or  some 
drying-room.  The  top  of  a  stove  in  which  there  is 
little  fire,  a  slat  frame  suspended  high  above  the 
kitchen  stove,  an  oven  which  is  not  hot  enough  to 
scorch,  are  the  drying  places  usuaily  employed. 
We  prefer  a  well-regulated  fruit-drying  kiln.  The 
corn  may  be  spread  upon  plates  or  tins,  in  the 
small  w.ay,  or  on  cotton  cloth  stretched  on  frames. 
The  bulk  aud  weight  of  the  corn  is  rapidly  reduc¬ 
ed,  so  that  the  contents  of  two  or  more  frames  or 
tins  may  be  turned  together  very  soon.  With  a 
very  little  practice,  one  can  judge  quite  accurately 
whether  it  is  dry  enough  not  to  mold  by  its  rattling, 
and  by  the  feeling  of  the  grains  when  pressed 
against  the  closed  lips.  When  dry  it  may  be  kept 
indefinitely  in  barrels  or  bags,  away  from  mice  and 
moisture.  The  third  way  is  by  canning — a  method 
attended  with  a  little  difficulty.  The  corn  is  apt 
to  ferment  and  burst  the  cans,  besides  spoiling  tiie 
corn,  which  has  often  a  most  distressingly  corrupt 
odor.  This  is  the  chief  troubie.  It  may,  however, 
be  obviated  by  thorough  boiling,  aided  by  the  ad¬ 
dition  of  a  little  sugar — (just  enougli  to  taste.) 
The  corn  should  be  scraped  from  the  cob,  after 
splitting  each  row  of  kernels  as  before  specified, 
either  after  parboiling  or  after  thorougiily  boiling, 
as  for  the  table.  The  pulp  is  then  salted  to  taste, 
and  sweetened  a  little,  while  it  is  cooking.  A  little 
water  must  be  added  if  it  is  in  danger  of  scorching 
on  the  fire,  and  it  must  be  boiled  till  all  the  air  is 
thoroughly  expelled,  which  it  requires  some  judg¬ 
ment  to  determine.  It  is  then  put  in  cans,  which 
are  closed  air  tight.  When  success  attends  this,  it 
is  the  most  satisfactory  method. 

To  be  served  for  the  table,  corn  prepared  by  the 
first  method  must  be  boiled  in  two  waters ;  by 
the  second  method,  it  must  be  soaked  and  then 
boiled,  with  the  addition  of  milk,  butter  and  salt, 
(and  perhaps  beans) ;  prepared  by  the  third  meth¬ 
od,  it  needs  only  to  he  heated  hot  in  the  can, 
turned  out,  aud  dressed  with  butter  or  creaug. 


Wyandot  methods  of  Drying  Corn. 


BY  XARAH-KOUEHTAH. 

[A  subscriber  using  the  signature  above  given, 
communicates  the  two  following  recipes  of  the 
excellence  of  which  we  have  no  doubt.  If  Yarah- 
kouehtah  is  versed  in  the  lore  of  the  red  man’s  aud 
squaw’s  cookery,  his  pale-faced  brothers  and  sisters 
will  be  glad  to  hear  from  him  again,  for  there  are 
many  articles  of  food  which  the  redskins  prepare 
in  a  way  to  please  the  most  fastidious  palate. — Ed.] 

“Shehah.” — Take  sweet  corn,  in  the  roasting 
ear  state,  cut  the  grains  off  the  cob  with  a  knife, 
scraping  the  cob  clean  off  the  pulp,  put  it  in  a 
mortar  and  pound  it  a  little  with  a  pestle,  then 
grease  au  iron  oven,  and  put  the  pulpy  mass  into 
the  oven,  and  bake  it  by  fire  pl.aced  under  the  oven 
and  on  the  lid.  In  place  of  cutting  the  corn  off 
the  cob  and  pounding  it,  it  may  be  grated  aud 
scraped  off.  After  it  is  baked,  it  will  come  out  of 
the  oven  in  the  form  of  a  loaf,  which  is  excellent 
eaten  warm  with  butter  and  honey.  To  he  dried, 
this  loaf  is  crumbled  up,  and  dried  in  the  sun  by 
being  spread  on  cloths.  When  wanted  for  use,  it 
can  be  boiled  iu  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes,  and 
when  it  is  stewed  down,  prepared  for  the  table  by 
adding  a  little  butter,  salt,  and  sugar.  The  Wy¬ 
andot  condiments  in  old  times,  were  bear’s  lard 
and  maple  sugar.  One  pint  of  this  dried  corn  is 
enough  for  a  meal  for  five  or  six  persons. 

“  Yah-xeh-tow-eb.” — Roast  the  corn  on  the  ear, 
before  a  quick  fire,  shell  it  off  the  cob  aud  spread 
it  out  to  dry  in  the  sun.  This  needs  to  be  boiled 
five  or  six  hours.  A  few  beaus  are  often  added, 
and  sometimes  meat — beef,  venison,  chicken,  or 
raccoon.  This  is  improved  by  pounding  it  a  little. 
The  meal  obtained  by  the  pounding  thickens  the 
soup,  which  is  delicious,  aud  very  nourishing  to 
the  sick.  When  pounded  it  is  called  “  Yahneh- 
towee-teh,” — ‘tch,’  signifying  pounded. 


Self-Shutting  Doors. 


Sometimes  doors  will  alwaj’s  swing  shut  when 
opened  wide,  and  at  other  times  will  fly  open  as 
soon  as  unlatched.  The  reason  is,  that  the  casing 
on  which  a  door  is  hung  does  not  stand  perpendi- 
cularl3a  When  a  door  wiil  swing  open  of  its  own 
weight,  the  casing  leans  the  way  the  door  swings. 
If  it  swings  to,  when  it  has  been  opened,  the 
casing  leans  iu  the  other  direction,  provided  the- 
hinges  are  alike  and  jiut  ou  iu  the  same  manner. 
In  some  cases  the  easing  leans  so  that  tlie  door  will 
strike  the  floor  or  carpet  before  it  is  opened  wide. 
By  removing  the  lower  hinge  and  putting  on  one. 
wider  by  au  inch  or  more,  so  that  the  turning  point 
of  the  upper  hinge  wall  be  exactly  over  the  corres¬ 
ponding  point  of  the  lower  hinge,  the  door  will 
swing  either  way  alike.  In  order  to  hang  the  door 
so  as  to  shut  itself,  put  on  a  still  wider  pair  of  hin¬ 
ges  at  the  bottom,  so  as  to  make  it  rise  a  little  as  it 
is  opened.  Then  the  door  maj'  be  opened  at  nearly 
a  right  angle  whqu  it  will  close  itself.  This  ar¬ 
rangement  will  often  be  found  more  convenient 
than  a  system  of  pullies  and  a  weight,  or  a  door 
spring.  Gates  may  be  hung  in  the  same  manner, 
so  as  to  close  or  swing  open  of  their  own  weight. 


How  to  Carve  Well. 

study  your  subject,  and  have  a  sharp  knife. 
Make  your  investigations  on  the  piece  of  meat  or 
fowl  before  it  is  cooked ;  I'eOl  with  your  finger 
where  the  joints  are  you  w'ish  to  strike,  and  where 
the  bones  are  you  wish  to  avoid;  if  nesessary  and 
possible,  w'ith  a  heavy  knife  or  cle.aver,  and  a  ham¬ 
mer.  open  the  vertebral  joints,  or  crack  any  bones 
you  know  will  be  in  tlie  way  of  your  operations  at 
the  table;  but  do  this  in  such  a  m.anuer  that  the 
piece  will  hold  well  together  on  the  spit,  and  come 
in  good  shape  to  the  platter.  Then  direct  (unless 
the  cook  knows  better  than  you  do)  liow  it  shall 
be  placed  on  the  platter.  As  a  general  rule  all 
flesh,  (recognizing  the  distinction  betw'een  fish, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


287 


flesh,  aud  fowl,)  should  be  cut  across  the  grain  of 
the  muscular  tibres.  The  e-Kceptions  to  this  rule 
are  :  very  small  animals,  very  young  lambs,  saddles 
of  mutton  aud  of  venison,  sometimes  the  tender¬ 
loin  of  beef  not  taken  out.  It  is  commonly  desir¬ 
able  to  take  off  the  best  cuts  first,  at  any  rate 
one  should  be  able  to  do  so.  Thick,  slashing  slices, 
or  big  sprawly  pieces,  are  inelegant ;  so  also  is 
helping  too  much  bone  with  the  meat.  Fowls  are 
easily  carved  if  young,  and  cooked  till  tender,  aud 
the  carver  should  be  able  (whether  he  exercises  the 
ability  or  not)  to  touch  any  joint  with  the  point  of 
his  knife,  aud  easily  separate  from  the  carcass  every 
principal  bone  with  the  flesh  upon  it.  We  may 
treat  upon  the  carving  of  particular  pieces  of  meat 
and  birds,  with  illustrations,  at  some  future  time. 


Something'  about  Yeast. 


In  making  bread,  yeast  is  added  to  induce  fermen¬ 
tation,  for  the  reason  that  during  the  process  very 
minute  bubbles  of  c.arbonic  acid  gas  are  liberated, 
which,  if  the  dough  be  baked  at  just  the  right  time, 
expand  in  baking  and  cause  the  bread  to  have  that 
sponginess,  so  prized  by  good  housekeepers.  During 
the  fermentation,  a  portion  of  the  starch  of  the  flour 
is  converted  into  sugar,  and  if  the  heat  arrests  the 
fermentation  at  the  proper  point,  the  bread  is  not 
only  light,  but  sweet.  Curiously  enough,  fermen¬ 
tation  is  accompanied  by  the  growth  of  a  micros¬ 
copic  plant,  and,  so  far  as  we  know,  it  is  necessary 
to  introduce  some  of  this  plant  iuto  the  bread,  in 
the  form  of  yeast,  or  if  we  would  make  yeast,  we 
have  to  procure  some  of  the  plant  to  start  with  in 
already  made  yeast.  We  hope  at  another  time  to 
give  a  more  minute  account  of  the  yeast  plant  and 
the  changes  it  induces  ;  we  now  only  briefly  state 
the  facts.  There  are  on  file  a  number  of  letters  ask¬ 
ing  for  directions  to  make  yeast,  and  in  the  same 
file  a  number  of  recipes  for  producing  that  impor¬ 
tant  article  for  the  household,  but  they  all  require 
the  use  of  yeast  to  start  them.  We  give  below 
one  of  these  several  recipes,  by  “  Miss  Hattie,” 
who  gives  no  address. 

“  Take  a  handful  of  hops,  two  or  three  potatoes, 
aud  boil  in  about  a  quart  of  water.  When  the 
potatoes  are  done,  mash  them  and  strain  all  on  to 
flour  enough  to  make  a  batter  as  thick,  or  thicker 
than  for  griddle  cakes.  If  the  flour  does  not  all 
scold  by  this  means,  set  it  on  to  the  stove  a  few 
minutes,  aud  keep  stirring  from  the  bottom,  put  in 
a  large  spoonful  of  molasses  aud  a  half  teaspoouful 
of  ginger.  When  all  is  scalded,  cool  it  to  about  the 
temperature  of  new  milk,  put  in  a  half  or  two 
thirds  a  teacupful  of  good  yeast,  cover  and  set  in  a 
warm  place,  and  in  a  few  hours  it  will  be  very  light; 
then  mix  into  this,  as  much  good  corn  meal  as  can 
be  got  in  by  working  with  the  hands,  the  harder 
the  better  ;  work  it  into  a  long  solid  mass,  as  large 
as  one’s  arm,  then  cut  it  off  in  cakes  half  or  three 
quarters  of  an  inch  thick,  put  them  on  to  your 
moulding  board  to  dry,  not  flat  down,  but  the  edge 
of  one  just  lapped  on  the  other;  put  them  in  an 
airy  place,  not  in  the  sun,  nor  where  they  will  freeze. 
When  dry  on  the  top,  turn  them  over,  aud  in  a  day 
or  two  they  will  be  dry  enough  to  put  iuto  a  bag ;  a 
paper  one  will  protect  them  from  the  flies.  There 
will  be  enough  to  last  two  or  three  months. 

The  next  thing  is,  to  make  bread.  Just  before 
retiring,  put  perhaps  a  cake  and  a  half  of  the  yeast 
to  soak  in  a  little  warm  water  and  cover  it.  Wuen 
it  is  soft,  put  in  your  mixing  bowl  as  much  flour  as 
is  needed  for  bread  ;  then  make  a  hole  one  side  and 
pour  in  about  a  pint  of  warm  water,  stir  it  up,  and 
stir  in  your  yeast,  cover  it  over  with  flour  to  keep 
in  the  gas,  aud  prevent  it  drying.  In  the  morning 
it  will  be  ready  to  mix  the  first  thing.  Mix  with 
warm  water  or  milk,  let  it  remain  in  the  bowl  to 
rise,  as  it  can  be  kept  warm  better,  and  it  will  rise 
quicker  in  a  mass.  When  light,  “mould  it  over” 
and  put  it  into  pans,  to  rise  the  second  time,  and 
bake  when  light.  Have  the  oven  pretty  hot  at  the 
beginning,  and  be  careful  to  not  let  it  burn.” 


Steam-Coolced.  BSi*ea,iil. — W.  Pease,  of  La- 
porte  Co.,  Indiana,  writes  ;  “If  the  readers  of  the 


Agriculhirht  desire  to  have  very  white  and  light 
bread,  with  crust  no  thicker  than  a  sheet  of  paper, 
aud  as  white  and  soft  as  the  eentre  of  the  loaf,  they 
can  have  such  by  preparing  it  in  the  usual  way  aud 
placing  it  on  some  dish  that  will  set  in  the  steamer, 
and  when  it  rises  sufficient  for  baking,  instead  of 
putting  in  the  oven,  place  it  in  the  steamer  and 
steam  it  thoroughly  for  about  half  an  hour.” 

Chili  Saitce. — This,  which  is  an  excellent 
relish  with  coid  meats,  etc.,  is  thus  made  by 
Mrs.  A.  M.  Vose,  of  Boston:  18  ripe  tomatoes,  1 
onion  and  3  green  peppers  chopped  fine,  1  cup  of 
sugar,  2X  cups  of  viuegai-,  2  teaspoon*  of  salt,  1 
teaspoon  each  of  all  kinds  of  spice.  Bottle  for  use. 

Cri'eeii  Corn  Pudding'. — Mary  M.  Tur¬ 
ner,  Belmont  Co.,  Ohio,  sends  a  recipe  for  this  sea¬ 
sonable  dish  as  follows  :  “  Take  of  sweet  corn  W  ears 
— with  a  knife  scrape  the  gr.aius  lengthwise  of  the 
cob.  Then  scrape  out  the  pulp  ;  to  this  add  2  ta- 
blespooufuls  of  butter,  1  of  sugar,  3  of  flour,  3 
eggs,  1  pint  rich  milk,  a  little  salt.  Spice  to  suit 
taste.  Bake  from  thirty  to  forty  minutes. 


BtDYS  tk 


Ahont  Octting;  a,  Fire — iHatehei*. 


In  1667,  Phosphorus  was  discovered  by  a  German  chem¬ 
ist,  and  tlie  peculiar  properties  of  this  substance  have 
led  to  an  entire  change  in  the  method  of  kindling  a  fire. 
The  burning  of  any  substance  is  caused  by  the  oxygen  of 
the  air  uniting  rapidly  witli  it.  Any  thing  for  which  oxy¬ 
gen  has  great  attraction  will  take  fire  at  a  very  low  tem¬ 
perature  ;  some  substances,  as  the  metals  pota-ssiiim  and 
sodium,  will  ignite  as  soon  as  touched  by  water  or  even 
ice,  for  water  is  largely  made  up  of  oxygen.  Phosphorus 
has  a  strong  attraction  for  oxygen  ;  a  moderate  degree  of 
heat,  such  for  instance  as  is  caused  by  rubbing  it,  will 
set  it  on  fire.  In  16S0,  one  Godfrey  Hanckwitz  intro¬ 
duced  this  substance  into  London,  to  be  used  for  kind¬ 
ling.  A  small  bit  of  it  was  rubbeil  between  pieces  of 
brown  paper,  until  it  began  to  burn,  and  then  a  piece  of 
stick  previously  dipped  in  sulphur  was  ignited.  Several 
other  forms  of  using  it  were  contrived,  but  the  cost  of 
phospliorus  prevented  their  coming  into,  general  use. 
Another  substance,  chlorate  of  potash,  wlien  in  contact 
with  some  other  highly  combustible  substances,  like  sul¬ 
phur,  sugar,  or  pliosphorus,  makes  them  take  fire  easily 
and  burn  very  fast.  Many  years  since  a  gentleman 
in  England  employed  this  to  make  matches.  The  chlo¬ 
rate  was  mixed  with  sugar  and  other  ingredients,  the 
end  of  a  stick  was  coated  in  the  mixture,  and  when  fire 
was  wanted,  the  prepared  end  of  tlie  match  was  dipped 
in  a  small  vial  containing  sulphuric  acid.  The  chemical 
action  of  the  acid  caused  it  to  blaze  immediately.  These 
matches  at  fii'st  were  sold  at  three  or  four  dollars  per  box. 
A  very  ingenious,  but  costly  modification  of  this  method 
of  getting  a  fire  was  called  Vesuvlans.  It  consisted  of  a 
folded  paper  match,  in  one  end  of  which  was  contained 
some  powdered  ciilorate  of  potash  and  sugar,  with  a  little 
piece  of  small  glass  tube,  in  which  was  sealed  up  a  di'op 
or  two  of  sulphuric  acid.  When  this  end  of  the  match  was 
struck  a  smar  t  blow,  or  crushed  beneath  the  foot,  the  glass 
tube  broke,  allowed  the  acid  it  contained  to  come  in 
contact  wu'th  the  powder,  and  a  fire  was  immediately 
produced.  Then  came  the  lucifer  match,  coated  with 
a  mixtui-e  contaming  chlorate  of  potash,  etc.,  which 
was  to  be  drawn  rapidly  through  a  bit  of  sand  paper  fur¬ 
nished  with  each  box  of  matches.  Some  inventive  ge¬ 
nius  soon  tliought  of  pasting  the  sand  paper  to  the  bot¬ 
tom  of  the  box  ;  then  another  improved  the  composition 
so  tirat  the  match  wouid  kindle  by  being  rubbed  on  any 
hard  substance  ;  and  finally  some  one  else  dis[)ensed  with 
the  .'Ulphur  for  the  ends  of  the  match  on  account  of  its 
unpteasairt  fumes,  and  made  the  stick  light  more  easily  by 
dipping  it  in  a  wax-like  substance  called  paraffine. 
The  very  latest  inventio.n  in  this  line,  we  believe,  is 
a  match  that  will  take  fire  only  when  rubbed  lightly  on 
the  bottom  of  the  box  or  on  specially  prepared  paper. 
It  is  called  the  safety  match,  and  has  some  advantages 
in  not  being  so  liable  to  cause  mischief  by  accident,  but 
it  is  not  so  generally  convenient  as  the  common  .sort. 
Great  improvements  have  been  made  in  the  machinery 
for  getting  out  the  splints  or  match  slicks,  which  were 
formerly  split  by  hand,  and  also  in  coaling  them  with  the 
preparation.  The  number  of  matches  consumeil  isenor 
mous.  One  manufacturer  in  New  York  is  said  to  have 
used  within  the  last  IS  years,  2.225.000  feet  of  lumber, 
produotrrg  six  billinns.  Jive  hundred  millions  of  match- 
e.s.  The  total  amount  of  rnatclies  manufactur'ed  in  the 
Uniter!  Slates,  is  estimated  at  .75.700  000  daily,  worth  $7000 
at  wholesale,  and  this  is  pr  obably  less  than  the  actual  sum. 


or  a. 

It  is  relateil  of  Lord  Nelson,  tliat  while  walking  out  one 
morning  lie  met  a  little  girl  crying  bitterly,  and  upon  ask¬ 
ing  her  what  was  the  matter,  she  replied  that  she  had 
broken  her  pitcher  with  which  she  had  been  sent  for 
milk,  and  was  afraid  she  would  be  w  hipped  when  she 
returned  home.  Seeing  that  he  sympathized  with  her, 
site  held  up  the  fragments  and  artlessly  said,  “  Perhaps 
you  can  menri  it,  sir.”  “  No,  I  can  not  do  that,”  replied 
he,  “but  I  will  give  you  sixpence  to  buy  another  witli.” 
On  looking  in  his  purse,  he  found  he  had  no  change,  and 
said,  “  I  can  not  -give  it  to  you  now,  but  if  you  wiil  be 
here  at  this  time  to-morrow,  I  will  meet  you  and  give 
you  the  money.”  She  went  home  comforted,  and  told 
her  mother  the  story  with  such  confidence  that  she  was 
excused  from  punishment,  on  condition  that  the  gentle¬ 
man  should  keep  his  word.  Before  the  time  came.  Lord 
Nelson  received  a  letter  asking  him  to  go  to  a  distant 
place  to  meet  a  person  whom  he  greatly  desired  to  see 
He  hesitated,  and  thought  that  such  a  trifle  as  giving  a 
little  girl  a  sixpence  ought  not  to  keep  him  away,  but 
then  he  had  given  his  word  and  the  little  girl  had  implic¬ 
itly  relied  upon  it.  No,  he  would  not  disappoint  her,  so 
he  sat  down  and  wrote  to  his  friend  that  “owing  to  a 
previous  engagement,”  he  should  be  unable  to  see  him 
at  that  time.  Such  an  incident  adds  luster  to  the  world¬ 
wide  fame  of  one  of  England’s  most  celebrated  heroes. 

A  WoMe  Fxample. 

The  Christian  Register  relates  the  following;  A  law¬ 
yer  who  was  employed  to  examine  the  title  to  a  parcel 
of  land,  found  that  one  of  the  previous  holders  of  the 
tract  had  only  conveyed  a  lease  of  it,  and  consequently 
alt  who  had  taken  their  titles  since— although  they  had 
paid  a  fair  price— could  have  no  lawful  claim.  The  real 
owner  of  the  land  was  a  young  man  living  at  a  distance, 
and  who  himself  knew  nothing  of  this  pos.'ession.  At 
the  time  the  lease  was  given,  the  land  was  worth  only  a 
few  hundred  dollars,  but  since  then  a  manufacturing 
town  had  been  built  near  it,  and  its  value  had  been  great¬ 
ly  increased.  The  lawyer  upon  finding  the  title  defec¬ 
tive,  visited  the  young  man  who  was  the  lawful,  if  not 
the  rightful  owner.  ASter  making  his  acquaintance  he 
determined  to  tell  him  just  how  the  matter  stood,  and 
leave  him  to  act  as  he  should  think  proper.  The  young 
man  heard  the  case  and  asked,  “  What  do  you  wish  me 
to  do  ?”  “  I  would  like  to  have  you  give  a  quit  claim 
deed  for  the  premises.” — “  Have  you  one  prepared?”  — 
“Yes,”  answered  the  lawyer,  producing  the  paper.  Af¬ 
ter  carefuily  reading  it  through,  the  young  man  immedi¬ 
ately  went  w  ith  the  lawyer  to  a  Justice  of  the  I’e.ice,  and 
signed  the  document.,  “  Now,”  said  he,  “  liow  much 
was  this  property  wortli  ?  I  did  not  want  to  know  be¬ 
fore,  for  fear  that  the  value  might  be  large  enough  to 
keep  me  from  doing  what  I  thought  right  in  the  matter.” 
He  w  as  informed  that  the  property  was  estimated  at  from 
fourteen  to  twenty  thousand  dollars.  The  young  man 
who  set  such  a  noble  example,  which  many  we  fear  would 
find  it  difficult  to  follow,  wa.s  Rev.  Samuel  Abbott  Smith, 
late  of  West  Cambridge,  Mass.,  and  his  name  is  rightly 
recorded  high  in  the  catalogue  of  noble  and  honest  men. 

FroWemst  atnd.  FujeKlest. 

Our  young  readers  will  probably  miss  the  usual  variety- 
in  this  department,  and  we  very  much  regret  that  -we 
have  so  little  to  offer  in  the  way  of  puzzles,  as  there  is 
no  class  of  readers  whose  good  opinion  we- more  highly 
value,  than  we  do  that  of  boys  anil  girls.  The  deficiency 
hapiiens  at  this  time  for  tiie  reason,  that  just  as  this 
paper  was  being  made  up,  the  gentleman  who  manages 
the  Boys  and  Girls  Columns  was  taken  suddenly  ill,  and 
the  task  fell  to  the  care  of  another,  who  rather  than  rum¬ 
mage  over  the  papers  belonging  to  the  department, 
and  run  the  risk  of  making  .some  btunder,  makes  this  ex¬ 
planation,  wliich  he  hopes  will  satisfy  them.  He  can 
moreover  confidentially  tell  them,  that  he  has  seen  a 
number  of  nice  things,  which  are  nearly  ready,  and  has 
no  doubt  that  their  part  of  the  paper  w  ill  next  month  be 
enough  better,  to  makeup  for  any  lack  in  tlie  present  one. 

£B  (j/iuL  So/n/ 

FOR  0 

No.  173.  Illustrated  Rebus,  which  gives  good  advice. 

4- 

a'a  of  d  B  mm 

No.  174.  Illustrated  Rebus,  containing  still  better  advice. 


Q88 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[September, 


I  THE  PRISONEK  AND  HER 

This  beauliful  pictnve  tells  its  own  touching  story  of  a 
lonely  prisoner  suffering  for  companionship  ami  sympa¬ 
thy,  and  finding  it  with  the  little  birds  that  she  has  taught 
by  kind  treatment  to  confide  in  her.  “  What  is  she  shut 
up  for?”  ask  ttie  whole  first  class  of  Agriculturist  read¬ 
ers,  that  is  the  little  ones.  We  can  not  tell  certainly. 
She  does  not  look  like  a  person  who  would  commit 
any  crime.  In  some  countries  men  and  women  have 
been  put  in  prison  because  they  belonged  to  certain  fam¬ 
ilies.  Those  w'ho  shut  them  up  were  afraid  if  they  lived 
they  might  become  kings  or  queens,  or  get  some  place 
away  from  those  who  confined  them.  You  will  find  many 
such  accounts  in  the  history  of  England,  Fi  ance,  and 
other  European  countries.  Probably  the  lady  in  the  pic¬ 
ture,  if  she  should  ever  be  set  free,  would  never  want  to 
see  a  bird  shut  up  in  a  cage  ;  she  would  think  of  the  lone¬ 
ly  hours  she  herself  had  passed  in  confinement.  If  you 
have  any  doubts  whether  a  bird  loves  liberty,  just  open 
the  door  of  its  cage,  and  it  will  soon  show  you  liow  it 
feels.  It  is  much  pleasanter  to  tame  the  birds  by  feeding 
them.  They  can  be  made  so  familiar  as  to  feed  from  a 
person’s  hand,  if  he  will  encourage  their  confidence  by 
kind  treatment  day  after  day.  If  no  one  had  ever  injured 
the  birds,  they  would  never  have  had  such  fear  of  man, 
whom  they  now  very  justly  look  upon  as  their  enemy. 

'I'lie  Jiidge’s  Experiment. 

Many  years  ago  it  was  a  common  practice  in  Europe, 
to  torture  witnesses  who  were  suspected  of  concealing 
the  truth,  and  particularly  supposed  criminals  who  would 
not  confess  their  guilt.  The  following  account  is  given 
of  its  abolishment  in  Portugal,  the  country  where  it  was 
hast  practised  :  A  certain  judge  greatly  doubted  whether 
statements  extorted  from  sufferers  by  the  rack,  were 
worthy  of  belief,  as  many  would  he  willing  to  confess  to 
any  thing  to  escape  from  the  excruciating  torments.  He 
put  the  matter  to  test  in  the  following  manner.  He  gave 
the  charge  of  his  horse  to  a  servant,  requiring  him  to 
lodge  in  the  stable,  which  was  kept  locked.  One  night 
the  judge  tiimself  unlocked  the  door,  stole  in  carefully 
while  the  servant  was  asleep,  and  killed  the  horse.  Then 
when  the  mischief  was  discovered,  it  was  of  course 
charged  upon  the  servant.  The  punishment  for  such  a 
crime  was  death,  and  of  course  the  poor  fellow  denied  all 
knowledge  of  the  act.  But  as  appearances  were  so 


RETS  . — Enijraced  for  the  American  Agriculturist, 

much  against  him,  he  was  put  to  the  torture  to  make  him 
acknowledge  the  crime,  and  in  a  short  time,  he  confessed 
himself  guilty.  Then  the  judge  related  the  whole  cir¬ 
cumstances  to  the  court,  stating  what  were  his  motives. 
Of  course  the  man  was  acquitted,  and  the  torture  was 
abolished  from  that  time.  Although  the  act  was  a  cruel 
one,  much  suffering  was  thereby  saved  to  many  others. 

Xlie  Iiivemtoi*  of  the  Stocking'  Frame. 

The  history  of  William  Lee,  the  inventor  of  the  first 
stocking  knitting  machine,  is  a  remarkable  instance  of 
perseverance  under  difficulties  and  final  want  of  person¬ 
al  success,  although  he  became  a  benefactor  to  his  coun¬ 
try  and  the  world.  It  is  related  that,  when  a  young  man, 
he  paid  his  addresses  to  a  lady  who  did  not  appear  to  fa¬ 
vor  his  attentions.  Whenever  he  visited  her  she  would 
always  engage  in  knitting  very  industriously,  and  scarce¬ 
ly  notice  his  conversation.  At  length  he  became  disgust¬ 
ed,  and  declared  that  instead  of  following  her  whims 
any  longer,  he  would  invent  something  to  do  away  with 
her  favorite  employment  of  knitting.  After  three  years 
study  and  patient  labor,  he  was  able  to  produce  all  of  the 
stocking  except  the  foot,  but  several  months  more  ena¬ 
bled  him  to  accomplish  this  also.  Now  he  thought  his 
fortune  surely  made,  but  upon  applying  for  a  patent,  it 
was  absurdly  refused  on  the  ground  that  it  would  take 
away  the  living  of  many  poor  persons  to  whom  knitting 
gave  employment.  Queen  Elizabeth  is  said  to  have  re¬ 
marked,  that  wore  it  a  machine  for  making  silk  stockings 
a  patent  might  have  been  granted,  as  that  would  affect 
but  a  small  number  of  persons,  but  a  monopoly  of  mak¬ 
ing  stockings  for  the  whole  people,  was  too  great  a  mat¬ 
ter  for  any  one  individual.  He  now  set  himself  to  over¬ 
coming  this  obstacle,  and  was  helped  by  Lord  Hunsden, 
a  cousin  of  the  Queen,  who  bound  his  own  son  to  him  as 
apprentice.  After  another  long  interval  of  patient  labor 
he  completed  a  frame  for  making  silk  stockings,  but  even 
then  the  Queen  obstinately  refused  to  gr.ant  him  a  pa¬ 
tent.  Then  he  attempted  to  carry  on  the  business  of 
stocking  making,  keeping  liis  machine  a  secret,  and  em¬ 
ploying  his  own  relatives  as  workmen.  But  his  patron. 
Lord  Hunsden,  and  also  his  son,  the  apprentice,  dying 
about  this  time,  he  vras  left  without  capital,  and  almost 
reduced  to  want.  Then  he  determined  to  remove  to 
France,  w  here  lie  w  as  encouraged  to  set  up  his  frames 


by  the  King,  Henry  IV,  but  just  as  he  was  about  to  com¬ 
plete  extensive  and  favorable  arrangements,  the  King 
was  assassinated,  and  again  his  patron  was  lost,  and  he 
was  left  to  work  unaided.  This  entirely  prostrated  him, 
and  he  died  of  a  broken  heart  the  same  year  (1610).  The 
stocking  frame  was  finally  perfected  and  introduced  by 
those  who  had  learned  its  construction  from  Lee,  and 
thus  the  country  received  the  benefits  of  the  invention 
which  cost  the  inventor  a  life  of  unrequited  labor. 

SSogiiies  Outwitted. 

A  correspondent  relates  the  following,  which  seems 
almost  too  good  to  be  true.  Ben  Davis,  as  his  neighbors 
call  him,  had  a  very  fine  melon  patch.  One  afternoon 
while  in  the  village  store  he  overheard  some  boys  plot¬ 
ting  to  help  themselves  to  the  fruit  without  being  invited. 
Ben  said  nothing,  but  on  his  way  home  set  his  wits  to 
work  lo  head  the.m  off.  As  he  was  passing  along,  a  large 
black  snake  crossed  his  path,  which  Ben  succeeded  in 
capturing  alive.  He  immediately  went  to  his  garden  and 
seiecting  the  very  finest  watermelon,  cut  it  in  two  very 
carefully,  scooped  out  the  inside,  and  by  means  of  pegs 
on  the  inside  fastened  it  together  so  nicely  that  one  could 
scarcely  detect  tlie  seam.  He  ilien  plugged  it,  and  forcing 
the  snake  in  head  first,  made  all  secure,  and  left  it  in 
plain  sight.  That  night  of  course  he  lay  concealed  near 
by  to  witness  the  sport.  Shortly  after  nine  o’clock,  three 
boys  came,  and  each  selecting  the  finest  melon  he  could 
find,  started  away,  with  Ben  following  at  a  safe  distance. 
They  proceeded  to  an  outbuiidingnot  far  distant,  struck  a 
light,  and  prepared  for  a  good  time,  Ben  looking  on 
through  the  cracks.  Boy  like,  the  largest  one  was  taken 
first.  “  I  guess  its  hollow,”  said  the  boy  ripping  tlirough 
one  side  with  his  jack-knife,  “we’ll  soon  see  what’s  in  it,” 
continued  he,  turning  it  over,  and  then  came  a  scream  of 
terror  from  all  the  boys  as  the  snake  glided  out  among 
them,  and  away  they  scrambled,  leaving  the  other  mel¬ 
ons  untouched,  and  it  did  not  make  them  feel  more  com¬ 
fortable  to  hear  the  uproarious  laugliter  of  Ben  as  they 
took  flight.  The  story  spread  through  the  village,  and 
they  soon  found  they  had  paid  a  dear  price  for  their  free 
melons.  For  weeks,  wherever  the  boys  saw  the  thieves, 
they  would  set  up  a  hiss,  and  the  culprits  would  be  glad 
to  retreaHiut  of  sight  to  hide  their  shame. 

This  calls  to  mind  the  story  of  a  clergyman  who  sus¬ 
pected  one  of  his  neighbors  of  stealing  hay  from  his  barn. 
One  night  he  provided  himself  with  a  dark  lantern,  and 
watched  for  his  coming.  He  saw  the  suspected  man  go 
to  the  barn,  take  out  as  much  hay  as  he  could  carry  on 
his  back  and  start  for  home.  The  clergyman  stole  up 
softly  behind  him,  and  opening  his  lantern  set  fire  to  the 
hay  behind  his  back.  It  flashed  up  insiantly  and  the  man 
dropped  it  and  ran  away  in  the  greatest  terror.  A  few 
days  after  the  culprit  came  to  the  clergyman  and  confes¬ 
sing  the  theft,  asked  forgiveness.  He  said  that  while  he- 
was  carrying  away  some  hay  the  fire  of  God  came  down- 
upon  it,  and  he  could  not  rest  until  he  was  pardoned. 
The  clergyman  freely  forgave  him,  but  did  not  for  a 
long  time  tell  him  how  the  hay  came  to  take  fire. 


Xltc  Kace. 


One  of  our  artists  has  evidently  been  reading  about 
the  Bull-frog  Show,  reported  to  take  place  this  luonili, 
and  has  given  us  the  above  funny  conceit  from  his  pencil. 
He  must  have  drtiwn  upon  his  imagination,  for  what  lie 
has  shown,  could  not  happen,  unless  bull-frogs  were 
larger,  or  boys  were  smaller,  than  they  are  now-a-duys. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


389 


(Business  notices  $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 


All  persons  interested  in  the  cuiture  of 

SMAIili  FRUITS, 

will  find  it  to  their  advantage,  to  send  for  the  July  Edi¬ 
tion  of  our  Catalogue.  It  contains  Descriptions  of 
all  the  leading  varieties  of 
Grapes, 

Strawberries, 

Raspberries, 

Rlack  berries. 

Currants,  and 

Gooseberries, 

with  the  prices  of  vines  and  plants. — REPORTS  of  our 
STRAWBERRY  and  GRAPE  EXHIBITIONS  1  LET¬ 
TERS  from  eminent  Fruit  Growers,  who  have  visited 
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plicants  enclosing  10  cents.  J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 

Ota-i:* 

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Charts,  Oharts, 
I^rints. 

A-gents  AVanted. 

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N.  IS. — See  our  New  Price  Lists  and  Catalogue. 

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Trne  Delaware  ISrape  Vines, 

From  the  original  Vine.  Also  Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac, 
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THE  I.ADIES  MKE  IT  I  ft 

Thousands  of  the  SEWING  RIPPER  have  been  sold 
and  not  a  single  complaint  made.  It  takes  out  a  seam 
rapidly  and  safely,  whether  sewed  by  hand  or  by  ma- 
cliine,  is  neat,  small,  does  not  get  out  of  order,  and  is 
needed  in  every  lady’s  work  basket.  Agents  wanted. 

Send  50  cents  for  a  sample  to 

A.  C  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York  City. 

WHEEI^EK.  &  WIESON’S 

Lock  Stitch  Sewing  Machine. 

No.  635  Broadway,  New-York. 

Economical  Hoiiselceepers  Esc 
Pyle’s  Saleratns.  Pyle’s  O.  K.  Soap. 
Pyle’s  Cream  Tartar.  Pyle’s  Blueing  Powder. 

Articles  designed  for  all  who  want  the  best  goods,  full 
weight.  Sold  by  best  Grocers  everywhere.  Each  pack¬ 
age  bears  the  name  of  JAMES  PYLE,  Manufacturer, 
New  York. 


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The  Reports  of  the  American  Institute,  Farmers’  Club, 
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The  Editor  of  The  Tribune, 

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The  Kitta-tiiiny  Hlackberry 

Is  now  offered  the  public. 

See  Advertisement  and  Editorial  Notice  elsewhere,’ 

Ijung,  Female,  and  Clironic  Diseases 
treated  successfully  at  Drs.  S.  S.  &  S.  E.  STRONG’S 
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VlCIi’S 

IllFistrated.  Catalogue 

OF 

IBOILIBS, 

AND 

^iiifle  in  the  Flower  Garden, 

FOR  1865, 

IS  NOW  PUBLISHED. 


IT  CONTAINS  ACCUEATB  DESCRIPTIONS  OP  THE  BEST 


HYACINTHS,  TULIPS,  CROCUSES,  SNOW 
DROPS,  CROWN  IMPERIALS,  ANE¬ 
MONES,  LILIES, 

AND  OTHER  HARDY  BULBS  FOR  FALL  PLANTING. 


WITH  FULL  AND  PLAIN 

DIRECTIONS  FOR  PLANTING  AND  COLTDRE 

IN  THE  6AEDKN,  AND  IN  GLASSES  AND  POTS  FOB  WINTER 
FLOWERING. 

Illnstrated  irith  Nnincrons  Eugravtags  and  Col¬ 
ored  Plate. 

This  Annua,  is  published  for  the  information  and  benefit 
of  my  customers,  and  to  tliem  it  will  be  sent  free  without 
application.  To  all  others,  10  cents,  including  postage 
Addre&n  .SAiSlES  VICM, 

lEocliestei',  N.  Y. 


Doty’s  Clothes  Washer, 


NEW  ARBJlM«EMEMT. 
IMPORTANT  IMPROVEMENT. 

The  Metropolitan  Washing  Machine  Co.,  Proprietors  of 
the  Universal  Clothes  Wringer,  have  arranged  for  the  ex¬ 
clusive  manufacture  and  sale  of  Doty’s  Washing  Machine, 
in  all  Territory  East  and  South  of  Illinois,  and  west  of  Rocky 
Mountains. 

Knowing  this  to  be 

FAK  THE  SSBST  WASlIEIft 
ever  Invented,  and  that  those  who  purchase  or  take  it  on 
trial  are  swr®  to  like  It,  and  will  find  it  not  only  a  great 
saver  of  time  and  strength,  hut  also, 

A  GREAT  SAVER  OF  CLOTHES, 

We  place  it  In  tlie  hands  of  Salesmen,  and  offer  it  to  the 
Public,  in  full  confidence  that  the  sale  will  be  large  at  first, 
and  will  increase  rapidly  as  the  Machines  are  introduced  and 
their  merits  hecome  known.  It  has  recently  been  greatly 
improved,  and  can  be  attached  to  the  old-fashioned  Dasher- 
Churn,  and  make  elmirmijig  four  times  easier. 

See  testimony  of  Orange  Judd,  Editor  American  Agri¬ 
culturist. 

Doty’s  Washing  Machine  we  have  tried  thoroughly  for 
nearly  a  year  past,  in  competition  with  many  others  sent  to 
ns,  and  for  actual  service  this  seems  to  be  an  improvement 
upon  every  previous  machine  we  have  tested.  It  Is  com¬ 
pact,  and  easily,  and  naturally  worked.  Our  “better  half,” 
who  has  been  complimented  with  the  gift  of  a  score  or  more 
of  different  machines  for  trial,  says  this  is  taken  to  moat 
kindly  by  the  “help,”  and  that  she  can  not  persuade  them 
to  use  any  other  jyhile  this  is  at  hand. 

PRICES.— Family  Size.  $12.00. 

Hotel  “  $15.00. 

On  receipt  of  the  price  from  places  where  no  one  Is  sel¬ 
ling,  we  will  send  the  Washer  in  States  East  of  Illinois,  free 
of  K.  R.  freight  charges,  and  so  sure  are  we  of  its  merits 
thaj  we  promise  to  Refund  tke  Money,  if,  on  one 
month’s  trial  according  to  directions,  the  purchaser  chooses 
to  return  the  Washer  to  us,  free  of  expense. 

A  good  Universal  Wringer  with  cogs,  should  go  with 
each  Washer.  Price  of  Washer  and  Wringer  combined,  $20. 

Good  Salesmen  can  make  money  everywhere  selling  this 
Machine.  Exclusive  right  of  Sale  given  to  responsible  par¬ 
ties  who  first  apply. 

Send  for  Hlustrated  Terms  Circular. 

R.  C.  BROWNING,  General  Agent, 

847  Broadway,  Hew-Yorls, 


390 


AMERICAN  AORICULTURIST. 


[September, 


^  b  e  r  t  i  s  e  me  n  t  s , 

Advertisements,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFORE  tbe  lOtb  of  the  preceding  month. 

V.  B.— iVo  AdvertUsement  of  I’alent  Medicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parlies  unknown  to  the  Editoi's  personal- 
In  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references, 
ive  de-sire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  toill  do  what  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  tip  to  these  requirements,  we  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  valuable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisers  themselves. 

TERMS—  (casli  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines),  |nr,  each  insertion. 

One  wliole  column  (MS  lines),  $120  eacli  Insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  Quarter  per  line. 


The  Proprietors  of  this  popular  Clollics  and  LaBor- 
savlng  household  help,  call  attention  to  a  new  arrange¬ 
ment  elsewhere  advertised  in  this  paper,  b.v  whicli  the  con¬ 
trol  of  the  manufacture  and  sale  of  their  Wasliers,  passes 
into  the  hands  of  the  Proprietors  and  Gencr.al  Agent  of  the 
Universal  Clothes  Wringer,  except  in  the  States  of  Wiscon¬ 
sin,  Illinois,  Missouri,  Minnesota,  Iowa,  Kansas,  and  Nebras¬ 
ka.  In  these  States  the  Proprietors,  DOTY  BliOTHERS. 
will  continue  to  carrv  on  the  business,  with  headquarters  at 
JANESVILLE,  WISCONSIN. 

The  retail  price  of  Family  size  will  hereafter  be  $12.  and 
Hotel  size  $15,  on  receipt  of  whicli  we  will  send  a  Washer 
to  any  R.  R.  station,  in  either  of  the  above-named  States  free 
of  freight  charges. 

We  want  good  Agents  everywhere.  Send  for  Circular,  to 
DOTY  BROTHERS,  Janesville,  Wis. 

Flax  Straighteners — Flax  Brakes 
— Flax  Combers. 

The  Strai«:htener  will  take  tangled  straw  and  straighten  it 
all  rl?:ht  for  the  Flax  Brake— and  this  will  do  the  work  first- 
rate  lor  the  New  Comber,  that  will  take  tangled  tow,  and 
produce  rapidly  a  fibre  free  from  shive,  yet  fine  and  adapted 
to  Carding  and  Spinning.  Tliis  Comber  does  just  what  has 
long  been  wantea.  Prices  reduced  to  old  rates.  Send  for  a 
Circular  (no  charge)  to  JOHN  'W.  QUINCET, 

Treasurer  Mallorv  &  Sanford  Company, 

98  William-street,  New  York. 

®RAIM  TILE 

made  of  the  celebrated,  strong,  tenacious  clay  of  Wood- 
bridge,  N.  J.,  burned  with  intense  heat  over  the  Fire  Brick, 
In  Fire  Brick  kilns,  and  sold  at  moderate  prices,  as  the  clay 
must  be  removed  from  over  valuable  beds  of  the  best 
White  Ware,  and  Fire  Brick  clay.  Also  double  glazed 
Stone  Ware  Pipe,  witli  collars  for  making  water-tight  pipe  to 
conduct  pure  water  free  from  rust  and  poison.  Stove  Lin¬ 
ings  and  Fire  Brick,  &c.,  &c.,  of  best  quality.  Shipped  by 
Railroad  or  water  direct  from  Factory,  on  Sliip  Cliannel  of 
Raritan  River,  27  miles  from  New  York  City. 

CROSSMAN  BROS’.  &  CO.,  Woodbridge,  N.  J. 

Woodruff’s  Patent  Portable 


BAROMETERS  I 

The  most  accurate,  durable,  beautifully  finished,  and 
only  perfectly  portable  Barometer  ever  invented. 

Agents  Wanted  Everywhere. 

Bend  Stamp  for  Circulars. 

CHARLES  WILDER,  Peterboro.  N.  H. 


Persons  Intending  to  purchase  a  Threshing  Machine  will 
do  well  to  send  for  a  circular  of  the  superior  macliine  manu¬ 
factured  by  R.  &  M.  H.4.RI)ER.  Cobleskill,  Sclioliarie  Co., 
N.  Y.  See  their  advertisement  in  August  Number  of  the 
American  Agriculturist. 


Milestone  Dressing  Diamonds 

Sot  in  Patent  Protector  and  Guide.  For  sale  by  JOHN 
DICKKNSON,  Patentee  and  Sole  Manufacturer,  and  Im¬ 
porter  of  Diamonds  for  all  Mechanical  purposes.  Also  Man¬ 
ufacturer  of  Glaziers’  Diamonds,  No.  04  Nassau-st.,  New- 
York  City.  Old  Diamonds  reset.  N.  B.— Send  postage 
stamp  for  Descriptive  Circular  of  the  Diamond  Dresser. 


Hot  Water  Ftirfliaces 

for  Warming  Rrecn-Iiouscs,  Conservato¬ 
ries,  Graperies,  &:c. 

WEATHERED  &  CHEREVOY,  117  Piince  st,.  New  Yoi'k 

HOT  WATER  FURWACES, 

(ELLIS’  PATENT,)  for  warming  Dwellings,  Green  Houses, 
&c.  Send  stamp  for  Circular.  No.  18‘2  Centre-st.,  New-York. 


f^NITTING  MACHINES.— We  ofTer  the  pnb- 
HW-Iic  the  simpleet,  strongest  and  best  family  KNITTING 
MACHINE  in  tlie  woidfl.  Scnrl  for  a  Circular.  Agents 
wanted.  DALTON  KNITl'ING  MACHNE  CO. 

No.  537  Broadway,  New-York. 


Ci^-RAPE  VINES,  500,000  GRAPE  VINES  of  all 
^tlio  new  and  leading  varletie.o,  of  a  superior  character, 
cheap,  for  S;ilc.  Enquire  witli  red  stamp  at  Bloomington. 
Illinois.  DR.  SCHRODER. 


PRICES  REDUCED  ! 


Wash  Tub  Slavery  Abolished 

by  the  use  of  the 

Challenge  Washing  Machine. 

Warranted  to  wash 

QIJICKEK,  EASIEK,  &  ISETTEK, 

and  with  Less  wear  to  the  Clothes  tlian  any  otlier  ma¬ 
chine  or  process,  and  to  Wash  Clean  6  Shirts  in  7  minutes 
4  Sheets  in  4  minutes,  and  otlier  clothes  in  proportion. 
Weiglis  but  30  lbs.,  costs  but  $7  to  $9.  Sample  hlachines 
sent  on  receipt  of  price,  and  money  refunded  if  they  do  not 
give  ENTIRE  SATISFACTION.  Price  to  Clergymen,  $.7  to  $7. 
Six  Machines  sent  to  any  one  person  for  the  price  of  five. 
We.  the  undersigned,  have  used  the  Cliallenge  Washing 
Macliine  in  our  families,  and  can  freely  recommend  it.  We 
are  likewise  acquainted  witli  S.  W.  Palmer  &  Co.,  and  know 
them  to  be  honorable  and  reliable  men  and  believe  that  per¬ 
sons  will  be  perfectly  secure  in  sending  them  money  for 
Machines. 

Rev.  Wm.  Hosmer,  Editor  of  Northern  Independent. 

Rev.  Wm.  C.  Steele,  Pastor  of  Nortli-st..  M.  E.  Cliurch, 

„  „  [Auburn. 

Rev.  B.  I.  IvEs,  Chaplain  of  Auburn  State  Prison. 

Rev.  D.  D.  Lore,  Editor  of  Northern  Christian  Advocate. 
Knapp  &  Peck,  Editors  and  Prop’tors  Auburn  Advertiser. 

Agents  wanted  everywhere,  they  are  making  from  $30  to 
$90  per  week. 

Send  for  Circular  enclosing  stamp. 

S.  W.  PALMER  &  CO.,  Auburn,  N.  Y. 


The  Universal  Clothes  Wringer, 

WflTII  COG  WMEEES. 


Prices— No.  1)^,  $10  ;  No.  2,  $8  50. 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST- 

"  This  is  the  first  Wringer  I  have  found  that  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.’’— J.  P.  Huggins,  Lovejoy’s  Hotel. 

“In  the  laundry  of  my  house  there  is  a  perpetual  thanks¬ 
giving  on  Mondays  for  the  invention  of  your  excellent 
Wringer.’’— Rev.  Theo.  L.  Cuyler. 

“We  tliink  the  Machine  much  more  than  pays  for  itself 
every  year  in  the  saving  of  garments.”  “IVetiiink  It  im¬ 
portant  that  a  Wringer  should  be  fitted  with  COGS.” 

Orange  Judd,  American  AgriculturlsL 

“The  inventor  of  this  Machine  may  have  the  satisfaction 
of  knowing  that  he  has  changed  one  of  the  most  toilsome 
parts  of  woman’s  work  into  a  riiost  attractive  amusement.”— 
Mrs.  Henry  Ward  Beecher. 

“  I  heartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment.”- Rev.  Dr.  Bellows. 

US”  On  receipt  of  price  from  any  part  of  the  country 
where  we  have  no  canvassers,  we  send  the  Wringer  free  of 
freiglit  cliarges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  townsliip. 

R.  C.  BROWNIIVG,  347  Broadway,  N.  T. 


fTAS  SUPERSEDED!  PETROLEUM  POPU- 

ITT LARIZED  by  the  use  of 


It  can  be  filled,  trimmed,  lighted,  regulated,  or  extinguish¬ 
ed,  without  removing  the  shade  or  chimney !  Great  saving 
of  glass  as  well  as  oil !  To  places  witliin  a  reasonalile  dis¬ 
tance,  where  our  lamps  are  not  being  sold,  we  will  send  one 
or  more  FREE  OF  'TRANSPORTATION  CHARGES.  What 


bill./  bLJiiLUi  v  aoMjAiieu.  nmi  ojier  iiukphi  inaucementS  lOr 
good,  reliable  men.  CIRCULAUS  giving  descriptions,  illus- 

t'l'fltlAnc  rxTir^rxc?  o  tv  4*  Aof  {  ,-v\  yava  7  1  o  ^  4  At 


tratiqn^  pi  ices,  and  testimonials,  .sent  oh  application. 

VES  &  CO.,  No.  78  Beekman-st.,  New-’ 


JULIUS  IVES 


York. 


INVALID’S  TRAVELING 
CHAIRS,  for  in  or  out-door  use. 
Prices,  $20  to  $50.  Tliose  like  tlie 
cut,  $25  to  $35,  liglit  and  strong. 
Can  be  propelled  bv  the  liands.— 
PATENT  CANTERING  HORSES, 
for  out  door  exercise  and  amuse¬ 
ment.  Every  boy  and  girl  wants 
one,  prices  $12  to  $25.  Send  stamp 
for  circular.  Children’s  Carriages, 
Horse  Rocking  Chairs,  etc. 

S.  W.  SMITH. 

90  Wllliam-st,,  New-York, 


OlEKOVED 


150,000  Apple  Trees. 

Dwarf  and  Standard  Pear  Trees,  Cherry  Trees.  Grape  Vines, 
and  Small  Fruit  of  all  kinds  for  sale  by  S.  MORRISON  &  CO., 
Belmont  Co.  Nurseries,  St.  Clairsvilie,  O.  Send  for  Circular. 


To  ®ealei*§  amd  Ag’eiats. 

Send  for  Trade  List  ol  Grape  Vines.  An  unusually  fine 
stock  of  Concord  Vines  at  tlie  lowest  prices.  Address 

G.  E.  MEISSNER,  Riclimoud,  Staten  Island,  N.  Y. 


1  H  black  NAPLES  CURRANTS, 

-H-  ^Jibushes  2  and  3  years,  fine  plants,  for  sale  at 

$10  per  100.  Lawton  Blackberries,  per  100,  $0,  packing  free. 
Sent  by  Express.  Address  D.  CONGER,  of  the  Wayne  Co. 
Nurseries,  Wolcott,  N.  Y. 


PRICE  EIST  WOW  READY 

of  best  American  varieties  of  Strawberries,  Pliiladelphia 
Raspberry,  and  tlie  Wilson  Early,  tlie  Blackberry  lor  the 
million,  last  picking  this  year  sold  wholesale  in  Philadelphia 
at  20  cts.  per  quart.  Price  List  sent  free  to  all  applicants,  bv 
addressing  J.  S.  COLLINS,  Moorestown,  Burlington  Co.,  N.  J 


Motice  to  churches  and  schools.— 

BELLS  within  the  reach  of  all,  Tlie  AMALGAM  BELL, 
known  througliout  the  United  States  and  Canadas  as  tlie 
cheapest  and  best.  Price  reduced  to  20  cents  per  pound,  and 
warranted.  Send  for  descriptive  circular  to  the  manufactur¬ 
er,  JOHN  B.  ROBINSON,  No.  36  Dey-st.,  New  York. 


Photographs  of  premium  Chester 

White  Pigs.  Price  50  cents  each.  Sent  by  mail.  Address 
N.  P.  BOYER  <5s  CO,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


WEBB  SOUTH  DOWNS. 
Thirty  Ewes, 

Twenty  Five  £we  Lambs, 
Twenty  Ram  Lambs  and  Tear  lings, 

the  get  of  Archhisliop,  for  sale  this  Fall. 

GEO.  H.  BROWN,  Millbrook,  Washington  Hollow, 
Dutchess  Co.,  N.  Y. 


Norman  Stallion  Wanted. 

Young,  gray,  and  In  all  respects  desirable,  with  as  close 
resemblance  to  the  pure  stock  as  possible. 

Address  with  full  description  and  price,  delivered  in  this 
City.  K.  A.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-6t.,  New-York. 


Italian  ISces  tor  ^ale. 

A  few  colonies  at  $15.  M.  QUINBY,  St.  Johnsville,  N.  Y. 


Wcw  Importation  of  Italian  Rees. 

We  have  this  season  Imported  Queens  direct  from  the  dis¬ 
trict  In  Italy,  where,  according  to  the  last  German  Bee- 
Keepers’  Convention,  this  variety  is  found  in  tlie  liighest 
purity.  For  price  of  Queens,  &c.,  send  for  Circular  to 
L.  L.  LANGSTROTH  &  SON, 

Oxford.  Butler  Co.,  Ohio. 


HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  PRESSES. 

These  machines  liave  been  tested  In  tlie  most  tliorough 
manner  throughout  tins  and  foreign  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  of  over  3000. 

Tint  Horse  Power  is  worked  by  either  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  in  many  respects  possesses  unequalled  advantages.  We 
invite  tliosc  wanting  such  maclilnes  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  iiroinptlv  attended  to,  by  addressing 
INGERStJLL  &  Dougherty,  Greonpoint,  Kings  Co.,L.  I. 


li^aBgiish  ®Iack. 

A  pure,  elastic,  fire-proof  varnisli.  Ready  for  use  in 
10  gallon  kegs,  and  40  gallon  bbls.  Warranted  tlie  most 
durable  and  economical  paint  for  all  kinds  of  Roofs.  Iron 
fences,  boilers,  castings,  smoke  pipes  and  all  other  exposed 
tin  and  iron  work.  Special  Terms  to  Agents: 

Also  “  Linseed  Oil  SuiisTiTDTH  ’’—the  best  and  cheapest, 
F.  A.  WRITING  *  C()„ 

Victoria  White  l.ciid  Works, 

104  Water  st.,  New  York. 


Alderney  cow  and  bull  for  sale.— 

From  the  celebrated  stock  of  Jolin  T.  Norton,  Farming- 
ton,  Conn.  Eacli  3  years  old,  for  sale,  togctlier  or  separately. 
Address  Rev.  O.  L.  IVOODFORD,  West  Avon,  Conn. 


PERSONS  WISHING  TO  GET  THE  BEST 
breed  of  hogs  in  the  United  States,  please  Address 
N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Cliester  CO.,  Pa. 


WANTED. — Soldiers,  Ladies,  or  others  seeking 
light,  out-door  employment— agents  selling  cheap 
Sewing  Machines,  Books.  Pictures.  Yankee  Notions,  Clothes 
Wringers,  Patents,  Canvassers,  I-*edlars.  Train  Boys,  &e., 
&c..  can  more  tlian  pay  their  traveling  expenses,  wiiliont  aiw 
detriment  to  their  otlier  husiiiess,  witli  D.  Barmiin’s  “  SELF 
SEWER.”  or,  SELF-GUIDE  AND  BASTEP,,  for  all  Sew¬ 
ing  Machines.— Entire  time  given  to  iL  $.5  to  $15  per  day.— 
It  is  as  simple,  and  as  easily  attached,  and  worked,  as  the 
common  gastc,  by;  their  page  screw.  Weiglit  yi  oz.  Retail 
$1..50,  witli  directions.  $9.00  doz.  Yon  double  your  money 
more  by  the  gross.  Po.stage  on  one,  six  cents:  on  a  doz.,  42 
cents.  I  sell  other  llglit,  portable  articles  tliat  pays  I'rom  100 
to  200  per  cent,  proht.  Send  for  a  dozen  or  Gross. 

D.  BARNUM,  Inventor,  508  Broadway,  New-York. 


1865.] 


AMERIGAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Q91 


I*8H*cli£tsing'  Agency, 
HARVEY  B.  LANE, 

151  Nassau-st.,  New-York, 

STIftAWBIGKKIES. 

The  Agriculturist,  and  all  the  new,  desli-ahle  kinds. 
Agriculturist,  in  Pots,  $2  per  doz.;  $12  per  $100. 

C5BAPE  VIMES. 

Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac,  Delaware,  Concord,  Allen  s 
Hybrid,  etc.,  of  superior  quaiity. 

Woodriiff’s  Portable  Barometer, 
Doty’s  Clotlies  AVaslier,  S12. 

Universal  Clothes  Wringer. — Reduced  Prices. 
Hutchinson’s  Wine  and  Cider  Press,  $23. 
Uyman’s  Glass  Fruit  Jars— Best  in  Use. 


Costcord  Grape  Viiaes. 

The  subscriber  has  for  Sale 

.'iOOO  Concord  Vines,  2  years  old,  very  strong,  1  $18. 

5000  do  2  years,  transplanted  and  root  pruned,  >  20. 

5000  do  Single  Eyes,  2  vears.  )  20. 

15.000  Pear  Trees,  3  and  4  years  old. 

Standards,  $10  per  100 ;  Dwarfs,  $30  per  100. 
THOS.  W.  FIELDS,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y. 

Or  apply  to  H.  B.  LANE,  131  Nassan-st.,  New-York. 


S,  B.  CONOVER, 

ComiiiissiGii  dealer, 

260,  261  &  262  West  Wasliington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Kefers  to  the  Editor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Furcliasiiig  Ag'eaicy. 

The  undersigned  will  Purchase  to  Order,  on  favorable 
terms,  and  at  a  moderate  commission,  any  articles  of  neces¬ 
sity  or  luxurj',  of  small  or  large  value,  such  as  Supplies  for 
Families,  Goods  for  Merchants,  Farmers,  Mechanics,  &c. 
Money  sent  by  mail  or  otherwise,  will  be  Immediately  ac¬ 
knowledged,  and  goods  promptly  forwarded  as  directed. 
Letters  of  Inquiry  will  receive  immediate  attention. 

S.  CONOVER,  Jr.,  160  Fulton-st.,  New-York. 
Kefers  by  permission  to  Opposite  St.  Paul's  Church. 
Wm.  E.  Dodge,  Jr.,  Esq.;  A.  D.  Randolph,  Esq. 


THE  KITT^TUN'JN'Y 
HLYCHIBEHHY  ' 

Having,  after  full  and  thorough  trial,  established  its  claim  to 
superiority  over  ail  others,  is  now  offered  for  sale  to  Ama¬ 
teurs  and  others,  in  limited  quantities  for  fall  or  spring  plant¬ 
ing,  at  reasonable  rates.  For  Testimonials,  Terms,  &c.,  en¬ 
close  stamp,  and  Address  E.  WILLIAMS.  Mont  Clair,  N.  J. 

II®“  See  Editor’s  confirmation  of  last  year’s  report,  page 
284,  this  paper. 


PHILADELPHIA  RASPBERRY. 

A  few  hundred  Plants  for  Sale,  and  warranted  cenuine. 
By  J.  W.  CONE,  Vineland,  N.  J. 


The  Philadelphia  liaspberry. 

Wilson's  Early  Blackberry. 

Best  Selected  Strawberries. 

Fruit  and  Ornamental  Trees,  Vines,  Asparagus  and  Rhu¬ 
barb  Plants.  Send  for  Catalogues  gratis. 

WILLIAM  PARRY,  Cinnaminson,  N.  J. 


Book-Keeping  for  Farmers. 

A  scholarslilp  valued  at  fifty  dollars  is  offered  by  Great 
western  Business  College,  to  the  farmer  who  will  before  the 
first  of  October  next,  produce  the  best  record  of  liis  busi¬ 
ness  for  one  year.  Tlie  object  is  to  deduce  from  the  record  a 
practical  system  of  book-keeping  for  farmers.  Manuscripts 
should  be  sent  to  Great  Western  Business  College.  Mount 
Pleasant,  Iowa. 

Agricultural  and  otlier  papers  are  requested  to  copy. 


The  phrenological  journal  and  LIFE 

ILLUSTRATED  is  a  “first-class”  work,  in  its  42dvo!., 
devoted  to  Physiognomt,  with  “Signs  of  Character-” 
Phrenology,  the  Natural  History  of  Man  ;  Phrenology, 
and  the  Temperaments;  -Physiology,  the  Laws  of  Life  and 
Healtli;  Psychology,  the  Science  of  the  Soul.  Amply  illus¬ 
trated.  Montlily,  $2  a  year;  sample  Nos.  20  cents.  Address 
Messrs.  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  No.  389  Broadway,  New-York 


LOOK  OUT 

For  the  New  Game,  “  Three  Merry  Men,”  by  the 
Auttior  of  “  The  Most  Uaughablc  Thing  on 
Earth,”  to  be  advertised  in  the  ne.xt  number  (October) 
of  tins  paper.  Ha !  ba !  ha  !  Ha !  ha !  ha !  Ha !  ba !  ha ! 

AMSDEN  &  CO.,  Publishers,  Boston. 


WANTED-CANVASSERS  IN  EVERY  Coun¬ 
ty,  to  sell  Powell’s  Great  NATtoxAL  Picture  of  the 
voters  in  Congress  for  tlie  Constitutional  Amendment 
Tborongh  Agents  clear  $100  to  $200  per  mouth.  Send  for 
Circular  or  call  on  POWELL  &  CO.,  24  Bible  House,  N.  Y 


Iiidia  Mubfoei*  Gloves 

are  an  invaluable  protection  for  the  liarids  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Salb  Rheum,  ete.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $150  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ,  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYEARS  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 


YIMEInAN® 

FSfttJIT  I.A]VB>S,  in  a 

mild  and  healthful  climate.  Tliirty  miles  .soufA  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  by  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soil  is  rich  and  productive,  varying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wheat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  Tliis  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  liave  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  the  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  lias  in¬ 
creased  five  tliousand  people  within  tlie  past  tliree  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Scliools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
it  is  estimated  that  live  hundred  will  be  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  in 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  .all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  tbe  like. 

For  persons  wlio  desire  mild  winters,  a  healtbful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fi'uits  and  possessing  all  otlier  social  privileges,  in  the 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  tlie  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giiing 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies. 


F  G  IS  ^  A  ffz  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 
L  Y  IV  I>  S 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purcliasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  tlie  line  of  tlie  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-York  and  Pliiladelpliia,  at  from  $10  to  $23 
per  acre.  In  addition  to  all  tlie  common  products  of  a  farm, 
these  lands  are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet 
potatoes,  peaches,  grapes,  tobacco  and  liops.  All 
crops  ripen  ten  days  earlier  than  on  Long  Island. 
Squankum  marl  is  delivered  at  any  point  on  the  rail¬ 
road  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per  ton,  and  fertil¬ 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  application.  Tlie 
lands  are  mostly  covered  witli  yelloiv  pine  timber,  suita¬ 
ble  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  off,  leaving  tlie  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $.3  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station.  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  quantity  ol  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  tlie  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  witliin 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  Tlie  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  ivater-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  A  portion  of  the  purcliase  money  may 
remain  on  mortgage. 

For  farther  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHKTWOOD,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O.  GILES,  TO  &  72  Franklin-st.,  New-York. 
and  N.  P.  TODD,  ag’t  Shamong,  Burlington  Co., 
New  Jersey. 


SO.OOO 

Acres,  Franklin  Tract,  at  NewfieUl,  Gloucester  County, 
New  Jersej",  on  thp!  Kailroacl  runnin?  from  Philadelphia  to 
Cape  Mav,  aO  miles  South  of  Philadelphia— adjoinins:  tlie 
Vineland  Tract,  and  2  miles  North  of  the  Vineland  Station— 
for  sale  at  low  prices  and  on  easy  terms,  in  lots  to  suit  pur¬ 
chasers.  Circulars  with  reports  of  Solon  Uobinson,  Hon. 
William  Parry,  and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  to  ap¬ 
plicants,  free.  Address  JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO„  New* 
Held,  Gloucester  Co..  N.  J.  Improved  Farms  also  for  Sale. 


Valwatole  Farm  for  Sale. 

Three  miles  Soutliwest  of  Paducah,  Kentucky,  containing 
about  400  acres.  173  acres  open  and  under  fence— baliince 
wood  and  timber.  In  location,  soil,  water  and  convenience, 
it  is  unsurpassed  by  any  Farm  in  the  country.  Upon  it  is  a 
large  two  story  brick  house,  containing  nine  rooms,  besides 
Kitchen,  Pantry,  Batli  room,  Attic,  and  tivo  good  cellars— 
the  out-bnildings  are  ample.  There  is  an  abundance  of  well 
selected  Fruit,  and  an  Asparagus  bed  of  one  or  more  acres. 
This  Farm,  on  account  of  its  proximity  to  Paducah,  and  its 
licaltlifnlness,  would  lie  one  of  tbe  be.st  localities  in  Ken- 
tnekv,  for  a  Female  Seminary,  wliicli  is  much  needed  in  tills 
vicinity.  For  terms  of  Sale,  '&c.,  apply  to 

W.  H.  JONES,  Esq.,  Paddeah,  Ky. 


STRAWBERRY  PLANTS 

BY  MAIL. 

Great  Agriculturist. 

75  cents  per  dozen:  $2.50  per  50. 

"Wilson’s  Albany, 

Burr’s  New  Pine, 

Boston  Pine, 

Xriomplie  de  Gand, 

Fillmore, 

40  cents  per  dozen ;  $1.50  per  100.  Lower  by  Express. 
Plant  in  September  and  obtain  lir.lf  crop  next  year. 

All  plants  warranted  genuine  and  oi 

First  Quality. 

Address  J.  H.  FOSTER,  Jn.,  Bo.x  CGO,  West  Newton, 
"Westmoreland  Co.,  Pa. 


IPrize  Stx*awl>ei*r*ies. 
HOVEY  &  CO., 

53  Nortli-Market  Street,  Boston, 
offer  for  sale  fine  plants  ot  tlie  following  Strawberries: 

Ua.  Constantc. — One  of  tbe  largest  and  finest  varieties 
obtained  the  Silver  cap  at  Belmont,  and  one  of  the  4  varie¬ 
ties  wlilch  obtained  tlie  $20  prize  offered  by  the  Mass.  Hort. 
Society.  Five  years’  trial  liave  proved  its  great  excellence. 
Plants  50  seats  per  dozen  ;  $3  per  100. 

Agriciiltiirist— The  prize  berry  in  New-York,  and  be¬ 
lieved  to  possess  the  properties  of  a  valuable  fruit.  Plants 
$1.50  per  dozen. 

Rh3sc11’s  Prolific. — Fruit  large  and  productive. 
Plants  50  cents  per  dozen  ;  $3  per  100. 

Buffalo  Seedling.— Similar  to  tiie  last.  Plants  30 
cents  per  dozen. 

Hovey’s  Seedling. — Still  one  oi  the  finest  berries  In 
collection ;  genuine  plants  $1.50  per  100.  Also, 

Green  Prolific,  Lennig’s  Wliite,  French’s  Seedling,  Pro¬ 
gress,  and  30  otlier  varieties.  All  orders  addressed  to 

HOVEY  &  CO., 

53  North  Market-street,  Boston,  Mass. 


A  Aarg'c  Stock  of  tlie  'Fliree  ®reat 
ITlarket  Strawbeci'y  I’lants  for  8alc. 

Agriculturist,  $4  00  per  liundred. 

Russell’s  Prolific,  $1  20  per  hundred. 

French’s  Seedling,  $1  00  per  hundred. 

Garabaldi,  Cutter,  and  other  good  kinds  at  80  cents 
per  hundred.  Delivered  in  city  of  New  York  without  extra 
charge.  20  per  cent,  discount  on  4,000  plants.  Address 
SAMUEL  HICKS,  North  Hempstead,  Queens  Co.,  N,  Y. 


A  large  Stock  of  very  fine  plants  of  Russell,  Buffalo, 
French  Seedling,  Green  Prolific,  Leniiig’s 
White,  and  50  other  varieties.  Gi-cat  Agricultur¬ 
ist,  delivered  this  Fail  by  tlie  dozen  only  at  $1.00.  Ida— 
Thi.s  new  Seedling  can  be  strongly  recommended.  It  is 
more  productive  than  the  Wilson,  large  and  very  fine,  $2.00 
per  doz.;  or  $10  per  liundred.  For  prices  of  other  varieties. 
See  my  advertisement  in  August  number  of  tlie  Agricultur¬ 
ist.  Orders  addressed  to  WM.  S.  CARPENTEIt, 

156  Reade-st.,  New-York. 


StrawUei’i’y  JPian-"ts« 

All  persons  wishing  the  Agriculturist  and  all  the 
new  and  leading  choice  varieties  of  Strawberry 
Plants  are  requested  to  send  for  Catalogue  and  Price  List 
ot  The  Po’keepsie  Sjiall-Fruit  Nursery.  The  quali¬ 
ty  of  plants  and  mode  of  packing  are  unequalled,  as 
letters  from  our  customers  in  all  sections  ot  the  country 
amply  show.  EDWIN  MARSHALL, 

Po’keepsie,  N.  Y 


The  Mew  ^frawlserries. 

The  Great  Agriculturist  and  Great  'Wisconsin,  §1  per  doz.; 
the  Great  Buffalo,  French’s  Seedling,  Bussell,  Kogers  Eliza, 
Marguerite,  La  Constante,  Jocunda,  and  others,  oO  cts.  per 
dozen.  Many  line  sorts  25  cts.  per  dozen.  Carefully  packed 
in  gutta  percha  silk,  and  forwarded  by  mail  to  any  address. 
By  the  100  or  1000  very  low.  Priced  Descriptive  Catalogues 
now  ready  of  the  best  collections  in  the  country.  Agents 
wanted.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymouth,  Mass. 


Trembley’s  Union  Strawberry. 

Orders  for  Plants  received  by  R.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

1S9  "Water-st.,  New  York. 


aTRA"WBERRY  PLANTS.— French’s  Seedling, 

CSBrooklyn  Sc.arlet,  Monitor,  Col.  Ellsworth,  ituflalo  Seed¬ 
ling,  Leniiig’s  Wliite,  Deptford  White,  Green  Prolific,  all  $2 
a  liundred  or  sent  by  mail  for  50  cents  a  dozen,  Agricaltiu'- 
1st,  $1  per  dozen  by  mail ;  Russell’s  Prolific,  $10  per  tliou- 
sand;  Bartlett,  Triomphe  de  Gand,  and  Wilson,  $3  per  thou¬ 
sand.  We  have  in  cultivation  100  varieties,  warranted  true 
to  name.  THOMAS  CAVANACH,  eor.  of  Yates  Avenue,  and 
Jamaica  Road,  Brooklyn,  L.  I..  N.  Y. 


WELL  ROOTED  PLANTS  of  the  following 

named  STRAWBERFJES  sent  post-paid  upon  receipt 
of  price.  New  Jersey  Scarlet,  (best  early  berry.)  and  A.gri 
culturist,  $1.00  for  12;  $1.50  per  100.  Lennig’s  \V  liite,  Trilnine 
Prize  Berries,  Byberry  Seedling,  50  cents  per  12;  $2.00  per 
100;  Russell’s  Prolific,  Biifl'alo  Seedling,  50  cents  for  12 ;  $i.,t0 
per  100;  Freneb's  Seedling,  Downer’s  Prolific.  Cutter’s  Seed¬ 
ling,  Albany  Seedling,  Austin,  Bartlett,  60  cents  for  12;  $1.00 
per  100.  Also  orders  received  for  tbe  Pliiladelpliia  Riisp- 
berry,  and  best  varieties  of  Blackberries  for  Fall  or  Spring 
delivery.  JOHN  S.  COl-LINS,  Moorestown, 

•  Burlington  County,  N.  J 


293 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Septembee, 


GRAPE  VINES. 

VVliat  is  tUe  best  metliod  of  Propagation  to 
produce  the  Best  and  Cheapest  Vines  1 

Is  the  use  of  Pots  beneficial  or  Detrimental  ? 

It  may  be  stated  in  general  terras,  that  those  are  the  best 
Vines  which  liave  maintained  the  most  complete  degree  of 
health  during  the  time  of  growing,  and  at  the  end  of  the 
season  are  best  supplied  with  fibrous  roots,  radiating  from  a 
center,  ramifying  so  as  to  occupy  the  ground  fully  in  all 
directions. 

Those  which  have  few  and  long  roots  are  less  valuable. 

AVhen  pots  nvG properly  used,  theytend  greatly  to  increase 
the  good  qualities  of  the  plants,  but  their  use  in  this  man¬ 
ner  is  attended  with  greatly  increased  expense. 

To  grow  from  six  to  ten  vines  in  one  small  pot,  is  an  abuse 
of  them,  but  when  it  is  found  from  years  of  trial,  that  only 
very  poor  plants  can  be  produced  in  this  way,  it  is  not  wise 
to  “abandon  the  use  of  them  altogether,”  but  rather  to  use 
them  in  a  manner  calculated  to  produce  the  best  plants. 

In  justice  to  my  customers,  I  find  it  necessary  to  use  them 
by  the  Hundred-Thousand,  and  by  their  use  have  been  able 
the  past  eight  years  to  produce  Vines,  which,  for  their  early 
bearing,  hardy  vigor,  and  constant  productiveness,  have  not 
been  equalled. 

For  conQrination  oi  this,  I  can  point  to  Hundreds-of-Tliou- 
sands  of  Vines  disseminated  during  the  past  eight  years, 
throughout  the  whole,  vine-growing  region  of  the  country. 


Table  of  selections  by  Mr.  Mead,  with  the  considera¬ 
tions  which  influence  his  choice  of  a  selection  of 


one  hundred .  18 

Selections  for  vineyards  for  wine,  and  for  table  use,  for 

latitude  of  New  York,  by  Peter  B.  Mead .  19 

Is  C.  W.  Grant  influenced  by  interest  in  the  recommen¬ 
dation  of  kinds  ? . 19 

Extracts  from  letters  .  19 

Quality  of  grapes,  and  education  of  taste.  By  R.  G. 

Pardee . 20 

“The  Conditions  of  Success  in  Grape  Culture.”  Ex¬ 
tract  from  a  lecture  by  Peter  B.  Mead .  20 

The  value  of  plants  as  affected  by  age .  21 

Importance  of  transplanting  and  root-pruning  if  vines 

are  more  than  one  year  old .  21 

How  to  avoid  check  of  growth  in  transplanting .  22 

Are  vines  from  single  eyes,  if  well  propagated,  better 

than  from  cuttings  ? .  22 

Are  vines  made  tender  by  propagation  under  glass?...  22 

Training,  with  many  engravings .  24 

Wine,  and  howto  make .  26 

Profits  of  vine  culture .  27 

Address  C,  W.  GRANT,  Iona, 

(near  Peekskill,)  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y. 


MEW  ©IMS. 

We  offer  for  Fall  Sales  a  splendid  lot  of 

NATIVE  GRAPE  VINES, 

consisting  largely  of  the  newer  sorts. 

AS>II£4>NB>AC— ISKAEIiLA- 
1>EL,AWARE. 


DELAWARE  AINE^. 
Pa-rsonis  & 

Offer  for  the  autumn  trade, 

I^elaware  G-x*ape  Vines, 

at  the  following  low  prices: 

No.  1.  $30  00  per  100.— $250  00  per  1000. 

$2,000  per  10,000. 

No.  2.  $20  00  per  100.— $150  00  per  1000. 

$1200  per  10,000. 

No.  3.  $12  00  per  100.— $100  00  per  1000. 

$750  per  10,000. 

These  vines  are  grown  from  single  eyes  of  well-matured 
wood.— After  many  years’  experience  in  growing  vines,  we 
have  for  three  years  past  discarded  the  pot  culture,  because 
it  induces  a  cramped  condition  of  the  roots,  from  which  they 
with  difflculty  recover. 

Our  vines  are  therefore  grown  in  broad  borders,  where 
having  perfect  freedom,  they  make  substantial  woody  roots, 
full  of  fibre  eyes. 

The  reports  returned  to  us  of  the  rapid  and  luxuriant 
growth  of  those  we  have  furnished  in  past  years,  enables  us 
to  recommend  these  with  entire  confidence. 

For  three  years  our  stock  has  been  exhausted  in  the  au¬ 
tumn  and  subsequent  applicants  have  been  disappointed. 

Those  therefore  who  wish  them  should  order  early. 

IONA,  ISRAELiLiA, 

and 


VINES  GROWN  IN  BORDERS. 


Also  a  very  fine  stock  of 


ADIROMOAC, 


I  have  Vines  of  all  the  varieties  on  my  list  grown  in  open 
ground  in  well-prepared  borders,  including  many  thousands 
of  the  most  valuable  kinds.  lojui,  Israella,  Dela¬ 
ware,  Allens’s  Hybrid,  and  Diana. 

I  have  better  plants  of  these  kinds  (that  have  been  pro¬ 
duced  at  much  greater  cost),  grown  in  large  pots. 

And  also  many  thousands  of  most  excellent  Vines,  especi¬ 
ally  of  Iona,  Israella,  and  Allen's  Hybrid,  grown  by  succes¬ 
sive  changes  from  small  to  larger  pots,  and  when  of  proper 
size,  transplanted  into  well-prepared  borders,  in  which  last 
position  “  without  check  ”  they  are  making  a  fine  season’s 
growth ;  tlms  securing  in  one  season  the  advantages  of 
Vines  two  years  old.  without  .any  of  the  disadvantages  of 
those  under  ordinary  circumstances  of  that  age,  which  suf¬ 
fer  a  severe  check  by  removal  unless  prepared  by  transplant- 


Concord— Hartford  Prolific— Diana— Rebecca, 
— Crcveling — Allen’s  Hybrid— Rogers’ 
Hybrid — Union  Village— 
Cuyaboga,  &c.,  &c. 

Our  Vines  have  been  grown  with  the  greatest  care  from 
Bayers  and  Single  Eyes,  in  the  open  air,  and  in  large 
beds  under  glass,  thus  producing  an  abundance  of  well-de¬ 
veloped,  branchy  roots.  The  plants  are  remarkably  strong 
and  he.althy,  free  from  mildew,  and  can  not  fall  to  give  the 
Best  satisfaction. 

Orders  by  the  single  plant,  hundred  or  thousand,  will 
receive  our  most  careful  attention. 

Descriptive  Catalogues  and  Wholesale  List  for  the  Trade 
sent  to  any  address  on  receipt  of  three-cent  stamp. 

T.  C.  MAXWELL  &  BRO'S.,  Geneva,  N.  Y. 


No.  1,  $2.00  each  ;  .$18.00  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  $1.50  each ;  $12.00  per  doz. ;  $80  per  100. 

CONCOR®  YIMES, 

$12  00  per  100  ;  $80  00  per  1000  ; 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of 

Creveling,  Allen’s  Hybrirl,  Ives’  Madeira, 
Diana,  Hartford  Pi’olific,  Bydla,  Rebecca, 

Rogers’  Hybrids,  and  the  other  popular  sorts,  all  at 
low  prices. 

STKAWRERRIES, 

Agriculturist,  $5  per  100. 

Also  all  the  leading  sorts. 


ing  at  one  year  old. 

In  one  word,  those  are  the  best  Vines  which  have  acquired 
the  best  habit  for  being  subjected  to  training,  and  at  the 
same  time  have  acquired  the  best  constitution  with  the  great¬ 
est  quantity  of  food  stored  near  their  center  for  the  begin¬ 
ning  of  the  next  season,  with  the  best  supply  of  fibrous 
roots  near  the  center  ready  to  take  nourishment  from  the 
soil  at  the  opening  of  spring. 

It  is  impossible  to  state  fully  the  characteristics  of  the  dif¬ 
ferent  kinds  of  plants  in  an  advertisement,  but  these  are 
clearly  set  forth  in  the  “21-page  Pamphlet,"  which  Is  sent 
for  a  two-cent  stamp,  and  more  fully  in  the  Descriptive  Cat¬ 
alogue  with  many  engravings,  which  Is  sent  for  ten  cents. 

N.  B.— I  would  invite  particular  attention  to  the  proposi¬ 
tions  for  tlie  formation  of  Clubs,  wliicb  liave  advantages  in 
price  and  other  important  considerations.  The  terms  are 
very  liberal. 

Those  with  Price  Lists  will  be  sent  for  a  two-cent  stamp. 


Descriptive  Catalogue,  sent  for . 10  cents. 

Illustrated  Catalogue . ;J5  cents. 


Manual  of  tlie  Viue,  (consisting  of  Descrip¬ 
tive  and  Illustrated,  bound  together  in  paper)  50  cents. 

Table  of  Contents  of  Descriptive  Catalogne. 

THIRD  EDITION. 

PAGE. 

To  CORUESPONDENTS,  Stating  Hie  advantages  and  im¬ 
portance  ot  the  new  kinds— An  account  of  tlie  Iona 
stock  tlie  present  season— Proposal  to  sell  to  clubs 
at  wliolesale  prices,  by  which  plan  purchasers  will 
obtain  vines  at  very  little  .advance  on  actual  cost  of 
production,  and  always  receive  good  plants  in  per¬ 
fect  condition— Extent  of  the  Iona  establishment— 


Method  of  producing  best  Vines .  2 

Classification  of  otir  Iiardy  Vines  cultivated,  in  six 
groups  and  four  sub-groups,  for  tlie  convenience  of 

cultivators .  3 

A  full  and  accurate  account  of  tlie  cliaracteristics  and 
properties  which  constitute  tlie  value  and  import¬ 
ance  of  all  tliat  are  worthy  of  attention  by  cultiva¬ 
tors . .  .  4 

History  of  the  seedlings  Iona  and  Israella .  8 

Letters  from  Peter  B.  Mead,  giving  impressions  and 
cliaracteristics,  with  a  minute  analysis  of  tlie  quali¬ 
ties  of  the  Iona  ami  Delaware,  with  their  co-inci¬ 
dences  and  differences,  and  also  bis  opinion  of  tlie 

Israella  . 9 

How  to  keep  grapes  in  winter,  witli  engravings  showing 
bow  it  may  be  easily  and  etliclently  done.  Some  of 
our  best  kinds  maybe  kept  as  easily  as  apples  until 

spring,  in  full  vinous  life  and  flavor .  10 

The  quality  of  vines  as  afl'ected  by  the  age  of  the  plants 
and  different  modes  of  preparation,  and  the  econo¬ 
my  of  tlie  different  kinds  to  purctiasers,  with  many 

engravings .  11 

The  value  of  plants  according  to  the  method  of  propa¬ 
gation,  showing  also  liow  and  wliat  plants  to  use 
for  clothing  the  trellis  the  first  year,  and  obtaining 

an  immediate  production  of  fruit . 16 

Selection  of  varieties  to  plant  for  table  and  for  family 
use,  with  the  considerations  wliicli  determine  the 

proper  choice .  17 

Tables  of  selections  for  different  latitudes  for  any  num¬ 
ber  of  plants,  from  six  vines  for  a  very  small  yard, 
to  hundrcds'for  a  fiuiit-garden  for  family  supply. ...  18 


Mace’s  Rrape  Yiaes 

FOR  SAIiE. 

Delawares  from  Layers  and  Eyes. 

Adiroiidac— Iona— Israella— Allen’s  Hybrid— 
Hartford  Prolific,  &c.,  &c. 

The  Vines  have  all  been  staked,  tied  from  time  to  time  as 
they  required  it,  and  the  ground  wholly  free  from  weeds. 
Send  for  Circular.  B.  H.  MACE.  Newburgh,  N.  Y. 

lAdjoining  Chas.  Downing. 


Sing’  Sing’  Grape  Fincs- 

Delaware,  Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac,  Al> 
len’s  Hybrid,  Concord,  Ac.,  Ac. 

For  the  past  two  years  we  have  been  unable  to  fill  any 
orders  in  the  Spring,  but  having  this  year  enlarged  my  (Jreen- 
Houses,  my  stock  is  much  larger,  and  in  all  respects  of  bet¬ 
ter  quality  tlian  we  have  before  ofl'ered. 

Vines  sold  by  me  are  warranted  true  to  name.  Prices 
same  as  last  year.  Send  for  Price  List. 

As  the  partnership  of  .1.  F.  DELIOT  &  RYDER,  is  dissolved, 
all  orders  should  be  sent  to  J.  F.  DELIOT, 

Sing  Sing,  N.  Y. 


Iona,  Adirondac,  Israellaj  Allen’s 
Hybrid,  and  Delaware, 

By  tlic  Quantity. 

■We  offer  our  stock  this  year  with  increased  confidence, 
and  also  offer  one  half  of  the  stock  grown  by  J.  F.  Dellot 
&  Ryder,  as  this  firm  dissolves  this  fall.  1).  C.  &  A.  L.  Ryder, 
with  whom  .Mr  Dellot  was  formerly  assoei.ated,  will  continue 
the  business.  The  facilities  we  possess  for  producing  good 
vines  at  little  cost  are  unequ.alled  l)y  any,  and  we  claim  for 
our  vines  a  superiority  over  all  others,  and  our  prices  are 
comparatively  low.  Send  for  Catalogue. 

RYDER  &  CO.,  Sing  Sing,  N.  Y. 


^00,000  Grape  Viiie§. 

I  do  not  pretend  to  liave  but  what  I  liave,  and  such  as  I 
liave,  I  offer  for  sale  at  Hie  lowest  living  rates,  by  Hie  single 
one,  100,  or  1,000,  consisting  of  Adirondac,  Iona,  Israella, 
Allen’s  Hjbrid,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Creveling,  Clinton,  Dela¬ 
ware,  Concord,  (a  few  thousand  fine  layers.)  Hartford  Pro- 
lille,  Norton’s  Virginia,  and  many  others.  Price  list  sent  free 
on  application.  Vines  sent  by  mail  when  so  ordered,  post¬ 
age  paid.  Correspondence  solicited. 

Address  J.  W.  CONE,  Vineland,  N.  J. 


Of  all  tlie  licadlng  and  Hardy  Varieties. 

I  am  prepared  to  furnish  first  class  vines  for  Garden  and 
Vineyard  culture,  of  my  own  propagation.  Having  had  six 
years’  experience  in  two  of  tlie  best  vine-growing  establish¬ 
ments  in  Hie  country,  and  liaving  grown  only  a  limited  num¬ 
ber,  giving  my  whole  attention  to  them,  can  ftirnlsh  superior 
Vines.  For  Price  List,  Address 

CHAS.  H.  ZUNDELL,  Hempstead,  L.  I.,  N.  Y. 


ROSES, 

Hybrid  Perpetuals,  of  the  best  sorts,  at  $20  per  100;  $175 
per  1000. 

Tliese  are  all  Remontauts,  upon  their  own  roots,  not 
budded  or  grafted. 

For  Catalogues,  Address 

PARSOMS  &  CO., 
Flusliing',  near  N.  Y. 

GRAPE  VINES 

By  ]Mail. 

All  tlie  standard  Varieties. 


Great  Reduction  in  Prices. 


1 

18 

3 

6 

118 

Delaware . 

75 

1  10 

2  00 

4 

no 

Concord . 

. 30 

55 

80 

1  50 

3 

00 

Diana . 

.  35 

65 

1  00 

1  80 

3 

50 

Rebecca . 

90 

1  40 

2  75 

5 

on 

Creveling . 

.  60 

1  10 

1  70 

3  25 

6 

00 

Tavlor . 

55 

80 

1  50 

3 

oil 

Union  Village . 

.  60 

1  10 

1  70 

3  25 

6 

00 

Cuyahoga . 

Hartford  Prolific . 

. 60 

1  10 

1  70 

3  25 

6 

00 

90 

1  40 

2  75 

5 

00 

A  few  of  most  other  kinds  for  sale  at  proportionate  prices. 
Send  for  Catalogue,  mailed  free.  Delaware,  Concord,  and 
Diana.  The  best  three  varieties,  one  each,  for 


ONB  DOLIiAR. 

Raised  from  Single  Eyes  and  Layers. 

Address  J.  H.  FOSTER,  jR.,  Box  660,  West  Newton, 
Westmoreland  Co.,  Pa. 


VIIXES. 

Delaware,  Diana,  Concord,  and  Hartford  Prolific,  a  large 
stock  of  choice  vines,  all  propagated  from  fruit  bearing 
vines:  Also  Adirondac,  Iona,  and  Israella.  Price  List  sent 
post-paid  to  all  applicants. 

I.  H.  BABCOCK  &  CO.,  Lockport,  N.  Y. 


75,000  Grape  Vines. 

The  subscriber  offers  bis  large  and  well-grown  stock  of 
Grape  Vines  this  fall  at  greatly  reduced  prices.  Persons 
wishing  to  plant  will  find  It  to  their  Interest  to  examine  his 
stock.  Send  for  Price  List  now  ready. 

G.  E.  MEISSNER,  Richmond  P.  O.,  Staten  Island,  N.  Y. 


1,000  lonit  Grape  vines,  1  and  2  years  old,  strong. 
10,000  Adirondac,  Anna,  Clara,  Delaware,  Diana, 
Rebecca,  &c. 

10,000  Concord. 

20,000  Pear  Trees,  Dwarf  and  Standard. 

180,000  Cherry  Currants.  Raspberries,  and  otliersmall 
fiults.  CHAS.  F.  EltHARD,  Silverbrook  Nursery, 
Hunter's  Point,  Long  Island,  N.  Y. 


1  n  nnn  Isabella  grai-e  vines,  2  niid 

JL  years,  at  $15  per  100.  Delaware,  Concord 

and  HtCrtford  Prolific.  Strong  at  ,$5  per  doz.  Packing  free. 
Address  D.  CONGER,  Wolcott,  N.  Y. 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


993 


Two  Acres  ^rape  Cuttings. 

mostly  Concord  and  Hartford  Prolific. 

Delaware. 

One  year.  No,  1,  $25  per  100,  or  $200  per  1000. 

Two  "  “  $50  “  100. 
layers,  “  $30  “  100. 

Concord. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $10  per  100,  or  $90  per  1000. 

“  “  "  2,  $8  “  100,  or  $70  per  lOOO. 

Two  and  Three  years,  $25  per  100. 

Hartford  Prolific, 

One  year.  No.  1,  $12  per  100. 

Rogers’  Hybrids. 

4,  15,  19,  et(>i 

One  year.  No.  1,  $6  per  dozen,  or  $40  per  100. 

Hianas. 

One  year,  No.  1,  $4  per  dozen,  or  $20  per  100. 

Adii’ondac. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $15  per  dozen,  or  $100  per  100. 

Iona. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $15  per  dozen,  or  $100  per  100. 

Union  Tillage. 

One  year.  No.  1,  75  cents  each,  or  $6  per  dozen. 

GEO.  SEYMOUR  &  CO., 

South  Norwalk,  Conn. 


Concord,  Delaware,  Diana.  Hartford  Prolific  ;  grown  in 
open  ground  from  layers,  and  long  cuttings  from  fruit  bear¬ 
ing  vines.  Also  a  good  stock  of  Adirondac.  Iona,  Israelis, 
Allen's  Hybrid,  Cuyahoga,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Rebecca,  Union 
Village,  &c.,  &c.  Pi-ice  List  post-paid  to  all  applicants. 

C.  L.  HOAG  &  CO.,  Lockport,  N.  T. 


"l^ATIVE  GRAPE  VINES.— Such  as  the  Adi- 
rondac,  Iona,  Israella,  Creveling,  Allen’s 
Hybrid,  Delaware,  &c.  Also  a  large  collection  of 
hardy  Everblooining  Roses,  on  their  own  roots,  and  Stand¬ 
ard.  Also  a  large  lot  of  Dwarf  and  Standard  Pear  Trees,  for 
sale  reasonable  Dv  G.  MARC,  Astoria,  L.  I., N.  Y.  Price  List 
sent  free  on  ai>plication.  Samples  oi  Vines  can  be  seen  at 
the  Agriculturist  Office. 


STANDARD  FEARS ! 

JBxtra  Fine  Stock  for  Fall  Sales. 

We  oifer  for  the  coming  Fall  an  extensive  and  superior 
stock  of 


STANDARD  PEARS, 

grown  with  the  greatest  care  on  our  strong  clay  and  gravel 
loam. 

The  best  Soil  in  the  world  to  Froduce  a 
Strong,  healthy  Tree. 


FOR 


Extent - V  ariety - Quality, 

we  believe  our  stock  to  be  unsurpassed. 

All  the  heading  sorts  In  large  supply. 

We  have  also  a  large  and  varied  assortment  of  all  the  best 
sorts  of  Fruit  and  Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs, 
Crrape  Vines,  Roses,  Bedding  Plants,  Bulbs, 
&c.,  for  the  Wholesale  or  Retail  Trade. 

To  Nurserymen,  Dealers  and  all  purchasers  either  of  large 
or  small  quantities,  we  offer  the  most  liberal  terms. 

Send  stamp  for  Catalogues  or  call  and  examine  our  stock, 
T.  C.  MAXWELL  &  BRO’S., 

Aug.  Ist,  18G5.  Geneva,  N.  T. 


FJEtO^’T'  &,  OO., 
Genesee  Valley  Nurseries, 

Rochester,  Y.  Y. 

Offer  an  Immense  stock  of  well  grown  Standard  and 
Dwarf  Fruit  Trees,  Small  Fruits,  Ornament¬ 
al  Trees,  Shrubs,  Plants,  &c.,  &c.,  for  the  Au¬ 
tumn  of  1865. 

Nearly  POUR  HUNDRED  ACRES  are  occupied  in 
their  cultivation.  The  Public  are  solicited  to  examine  the 
following  Catalogues  which  give  full  particulars  of  their 
Stock,  Prices,  &c.,  and  will  be  mailed  pre-paid  to  all 
applicants,  on  receipt  of  five  cenU  for  each. 

No.  1  and  3,  Descriptive  Catalogue  of  Fruits  and  Orna¬ 
mental  Trees. 

No.  4,  Wholesale  Catalogue  for  Nurserymen,  Dealers  and 
others  who  wish  to  buy  in  large  quantities. 

Address 

FROST  &  CO.,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 


100,000  Standard  Apple  Trees! 

8,  and  part  4  years  old,  averaging  7  feet  high,  comprising 
upwards  of  50  of  the  best  Summer,  Pall,  and  Winter  varie¬ 
ties,  remarkably  vigorous,  and  well  grown,  having  been  sci¬ 
entifically  pruned,  tliey  have  all  smooth,  heavy  trunks,  with 
low— well-formed  open  heads— favorable  to  early  fruiting. 
Price  S30  per  100  ;  #150  per  1000 ;  $1000  per 
10.000.  Descriptive  Catalogues  upon  application  to  B.  L. 
RYDER,  Proprietor,  West  Franklin  Nurseries,  Loudon, 
Franklin  Co.,  Penn. 

Within  two  hours  drive  of  the  Railroad,  by  turnpike  from 
Chambersburg,  or  Greencastle,  Pa. 

Personal  examination  Invited,  and  early  orders  solicited, 
letters  of  inquiry  promptly  answered. 


FRUIT  &  ORNAMENTAL  TREES 

FOR  FALL  OF  1865. 


Dutch  Bulbous;  Flow¬ 
er  Koot§. 


ELLW ANGER  &  BARRY  have  the  pleasure  of 

offering  their  usual  large  and  complete  stock  of 

STANDARD  AND  DWARF  FRUIT  TREES, 

GRAPES, 

both  Hardy  and  Foreign— old  and  new  varieties, 

STRAWBERRIES 

and  other  Small  Fruit— all  varieties  worthy  of  cultivation. 

OrnameDtal  Trees,  Flowerin§^ 
Sbrnt>8,  Evergreens,  &c. 

HOSES, 

including  a  fine  collection  of  STANDARDS  three  to  five 
feet  high. 

TREE  AND  HERBACEOUS  FiEONIES, 

a  great  collection  of  new  and  beautiful  varieties. 

Uulbous  Flower  Roots,  &:c.&c. 

The  stock  is  vigorous,  well-grown,  and  In  every  particular 
first  class. 

Planters,  Nurserymen  and  Dealers  are  invited  to  inspect 
the  stock  personally,  and  to  examine  the  following  Cata¬ 
logues,  which  give  full  particulars,  and  are  sent  prepaid  to 
applicants  who  inclose  stamps,  as  follows : 

Nos.  1  and  2,  ten  cents  each.  No.  8,  five  cents.  No.  4,  three 
cents. 

No.  1.— A  Descriptive  and  Dlustrated  Catalogue  of  Fruits. 
No.  2.— A  Descriptive  and  Illustrated  Catalogue  of  Orna¬ 
mental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Roses,  &c.,  &c.,  &c. 

No.  3.— A  Catalogue  of  Dahlias,  Verbenas,  Petunias,  and 
select  new  Green-House  and  Bedding  Plants,  published 
every  spring. 

No.  4.— A  wholesale  Catalogue  or  Trade  List,  published 
every  autumn.  ELLW  ANGER  &  BARRY. 

Mount  Hope  Nurskries,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

WM.  PEBRY  &  8OM9 

BRIDGEPORT,  CONN. 

OFFER  A  LARGE  STOCK  OF  SUPERIOR  VINES  at 

VERY  EOW  RATES. 

Varieties  are  Concord,  Delaware.  Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac, 
Rogers'  Hybrid’s,  Allen’s  Hybrid.  Lydia,  Ives’  Seedling,  Mot¬ 
tled  and  numerous  otlier  valuable  varieties.  Our  vines  are 
grown  in  wide  Borders,  with  plenty  of  room  for  full  devel- 
opement  of  roots  and  cane.  Vines  grown  by  tills  method 
are  far  superior  to  pot  plants.  We  submit  a  few  of  the  many 
battering  letters  we  receive  regarding  our  vines. 

Iowa  City,  Iowa,  July  20, 1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  &  Son,  Gents. 

Your  Price  List  for  the  fail  of  1865,  is  at  hand.  Those  vines 
you  sent  me  last  Spring  were  very  fine,  some  are  bearing 
tills  summer.  I  want  this  fall,  50  Iona,  25  Israella,  and  25  Adi¬ 
rondac.  No.  I  Vines.  Yours  Truly,  L.  Kauppman. 

Galesburg,  Knox  Co.,  Ill.,  April  17,  1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  and  Son,  Gentlemen. 

The  box  of  Vines  you  sent  me,  came  to  hand  on  the  13th 
inst.  On  opening  "it  I  found  the  contents  in  fine  order. 
Damp  and  moist,  the  Concord  exceeded  my  most  sanguine 
expectation.  I  never  saw  so  many  and  such  long  roots  on 
yearling  Vines  before.  The  members  of  the  club  appeared 
to  be  pleased  with  their  Vines.  Tours  Truly,  S.  S.  White. 

Sherleyseurg,  Penn.,  March  31, 1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  &  Son,  Gentlemen. 

The  Vines  came  to  hand  all  safe,  and  without  a  doubt  they 
are  the  strongest  and  healthiest  vines  ever  I  purchased,  and 
I  have  boughtof  quite  a  number  of  Nurseries,  but  none  have 
compared  with  your  vines.  I  am  very  sorry  I  did  not  pur¬ 
chase  of  you  two  years  ago  tins  spring. 

Yours  Truly,  Wii.  A.  Fkakkr, 

We  would  state  that  Mr.  Fraker  bougiit  our  second  size 
vines.  Parties  purchasing  this  fall  will  get  our  vines  at  much 
lower  rates  than  If  they  wait  until  spring.  Catalogues  sent 
on  application.  Address  as  above. 


S50,000  Pear  Tree§. 


We  have  an  Immense  stock  of  first  quality  Standard 
and  Dwarf  Pear  Trees,  suitable  for  transplanting  in 
Orchards  and  Gardens. 

Also  an  extensive  Stock  of  2nd  and  3rd  sizes  suitable  to 
transplant  into  N urser y  Rows  and  grow  2  to  3  years  to 
form  fine  and  extra  sized  ti-ees.  Any  of  which  will  be  sold 
by  the  100  or  1000,  at  the  lowest  rates  for  the  same  quality. 

For  description  and  prices.  Address,  with  stamp  enclosed, 
FROST  &  CO., 
Genesee  Valley  Nurseries, 
Rochester,  N,  Y. 


Cromwell’s  Patapsco  Nursery, 

Anne  Arundel  Co,,  Md. 

FOR  SALE. 

15,000  Standard  and  Dwarf  Pears. 

30,000  Peacli— choice  varieties. 

5,000  Standard  Cherries- very  fine. 

80,000  Delaware  and  other  hardy  Grapes. 


Ornamental  and  Shade  Trees,  Evergreens, 
Flowering  Shrnbs  and  Roses,  together  wuh  every 
thing  usually  to  be  found  in  a  first  class  Nursery. 


Sent  hy  Mail,  Post-paid,  at  Catalogue  Prices. 

B.  K.  BLISS, 

Seedsman  and  Florist,  Springfield,  Mass., 

Offers  for  sale  a  large  and  well  selected  assortment  of  the 
above,  just  received  from  Holland,  embracing  the  most  de¬ 
sirable  varieties  of  Double  and  Single  Hyacinths  ;  Poly¬ 
anthus  Narcissus;  Double  and  Single  Early  and 
Late  Tulips;  Double  and  Single  Narcissus  ;  Jonquils; 
Crocus;  Crown  Imperials;  Iris;  Snow-Drops  ;  Scillae  ; 
Hardy  Gladiolus ;  Ranunculus ;  Anemones;  Japan  and 
MANY  other  Lilies.  Also  a  fine  assortment  of  GREEN¬ 
HOUSE  BULBS,  comprising  Cyclamens,  Ixias,  Oxalis, 
Spabaxis,  Tritomas,  Achimenes,  Gloxinias,  &o„  &o. 

His  new  Illustrated  Autumn  Catalogue,  containing  an 
accurate  description  of  each  variety,  with  particular  diiec- 
tlons  for  culture,  so  that  any  person,  however  unacquainted, 
can  not  fail  to  succeed,  will  be  mailed  to  all  applicants  en¬ 
closing  ten  cents. 

The  following  varieties  of  his  selection  will  he  mailed 
post-paid  to  any  address  in  the  Union  upon  receipt  of  price 
affixed ; 

per  doz. 

Hyacinths,  Double  or  single,  fine  named  varieties.  .$3  59 


Hyacinths,  Double  or  single,  fine  unnamed  varieties  2  00 
Hyacinths,  Parisian,  Double  and  single,  mixed.  1  50 

Tulips,  Early  double,  fine  named  varieties . 1  50 

Tulips,  Early  double,  fine  mixed .  75 

Tulips,  Early  single,  fine  named  varieties .  1  50 

Tulips,  Early  single,  fine  mixed .  75 

Tulips,  Parrot,  Fine  mixed .  1  00 

Tulips,  Byhlocmen,  Bizarres  and  rose,  fine  nam’d  3  00 

Tulips,  Bybloemcn,  Fine  mixed .  1  00 

Tulips,  Various  sorts  mixed .  75 

Crocus,  Mixed,  Blue,  White,  Yellow,  and  Striped .  25 

Crocus,  Finest  named  varieties .  50 

Polyanthus  Narcissus,  Finest  named  varieties...  2  50 

Polyanthus  Narcissus,  Fine  mixed . . . 1  50 

Jonquils,  Double .  1  50 

Jonquils,  Single,  sWeet  scented .  75 

Iris,  English,  Fine  mixed  varieties . 1  00 

Iris,  Spanish,  Fine  mixed  varieties .  75 

Ranunculus,  Fine  mixed  varieties .  50 

Anemones,  Fine  mixed  v.arieties .  50 

Gladiolus,  Hardy,  fine  mixed  varieties .  1  00 

Snowdrops,  Double .  75 

Snowdrops,  Single .  40 

Hyacinthns,  Fined  mixed  varieties .  75 

Crown  Imperial,  Fine  mixed  varieties . 5  00 

liilium  Anratum,  A  new  superb  variety  from 

Japan,  each . 5  00 

Japan  Lily,  Red  and  White,  each  50  cts.,  per  doz..  5  00 

White  Lily,  (Lilium  candldum.) .  1  50 

White  Lily,  Double,  each  50  cents,  per  doz .  4  00 

White  Iiily,  Striped,  “  50  “  “  .  4  00 

Lily  of  the  V.alley .  2  00 

Peonies,  Twenty  varieties . 4  00 

No  orders  will  be  filled  at  these  prices  for  less  tlian  the 


number  specified.  Collections  containing  a  fine  assortment 
of  all  the  leading  varieties  of  the  above  will  also  be  mailed 
post-paid,  as  follows:  Collection  No.  1,  $20;  No.  2,  $10; 
No.  8,  $5.00;  No.  4,  $3.00.  For  the  contents  of  each  collec¬ 
tion  and  further  particulars,  see  Catalogue. 

Address  B.  K.  BlilSS,  Springfield,  Mass. 


.  lilliiiiH  Aiifatiam. 

New  Golden  Striped  Lily  from  Japan. 

TIius  described  by  Dr.  Lindley,  in  the  London  Gardeners 
Clu-onicle.  “  If  ever  a  flower  merited  the  n.ame  of  glorious, 
it  is  this,  wliicli  stands  far  above  all  otlier  Lilies,  wliellier  we 
regard  its  size,  its  sweetness,  or  its  exquisite  arrangement  of 
color.  From  this  delicious  flower  tliere  arises  tlie  perfume 
of  Orange  blossoms  sufficient  to  fill  a  large  room,  but  so  del¬ 
icate  as  to  respect  tlie  weakest  nerves.”  It  is  quite  liardy 
and  deserves  a  place  in  every  collection.  Flowering  Bulbs 
mailed  to  any  address  upon  receipt  of  $5.00. 

Address  B.  K.  BLISS,  Springfield,  Mass. 

Dutcli  l§iiSt>ou§  IS^oots 

I'or  tlie  Ti-acle. 

Wholesale  Prices  of  Bulbs  may  now  be  had  by 
addressing  J.  M.  THORBURN  &  CO., 

15  John-st.,  New-York. 

Retail  Descriptive  Catalogue  ready  first  of  September. 


©UTCIfi  BUMS. 

An  extra  selected  lot  of  large  Sound  Bulbs  of  Hya- 
^nths.  Tulips,  Crocus,  Snow  Drops,  Oxalis, 
Polyanthus,  &c.,  &c.  Send  for  Descriptive  Priced 
Catalogue.  HENDERSON  &  FI.EMING,  Seedsmen, 

67  Nassau-street,  New-York. 


Trees  and  buds  of  van  BUREN’S  Golden 

Dwarf  Peacli  and  Triumphant  Apple.  Sendfor  a  Circular, 
giving  prices  and  description.  Address  MILLER  &  CO., 
Setzler’s  Store  P.  O.,  Cliester  Co.,  Penn. 


Splendid  Pear  Seedlings,  1  year  old,  for 
w  Send  for  Trade  Circular  (price  low 

for  the  quality).  Address  HAMMOND  &  NE  WSON, 

Geneva,  N.  Y., 


For  sale  or  exchange  for  real  Es¬ 
tate,  75,000 1st  class  3  and  4  year  old  Apple  Trees.  J.  B, 
WILSON,  Washington,  Penn. 


294. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Septembeh, 


GROVER  8l  BAKER’S 

HIGHEST  PREMIEHl 


EL,ASTIC  STITCH  AND  LOCK  STITCH 

SEWING  MACHINES, 

495  BROADWAY,  NEW  YORK. 


?The  Nonpareil-; 
^Washing  M ach i n ^ 


Simple,  Strong  and  Durable, 

And  unapproachable  for  speed,  power  and  effectiveness 
of  operation.  PRICES  REDPCED. 

Dealers  Supplied.  Send  for  free  Circular  to 

OAKLEY  &  KEATING,  184  Water-st.,  New-York. 

liock  ®tltcla  ^ewisig  Macliiiie, 

For  Families  and  Manufacturers. 


THE  HOWE  MACHINE  00., 
No.  629  Broadway,  New-York. 

"WHATllATCHLESS  BEAUTY 

LiD^:ers  on  eveiy  glossy  wave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 


PATENT 


JIA  I  R 
CRIMPERS 


3 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies  liair.  No  heat  used,  and 
no  injury  to  the  hair. 

Thev  are  put  up  in  beauti¬ 
fully  litliographerf  boxes  con¬ 
taining  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengtlis,  with  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  is  complete  without  them,  p’or  sale 
tlirougliout  ttie  country.  Ketallers  will  be  supplied  by  any 
first-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  York,  Philndelpbia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 
E.  IVINS,  Sixtb-st.  and  Columbia  Ave., 
Pbiladelpbia,  Pa, 

PORTABLE 

PRINTIHG  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants,  Druggists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printer?, 
&c.  Address  ADAMS  PUESS  CO.,  26  Ann-St.,  Yp.r^^, 
Specimen  Slieets  of  Type,  Cuts,  ftc., 


NOTICE  T©  SHIPPEKS5 
SOAP-MAKEUP,  CHAMB- 
EEBP,  AI^B  COUMTKY 
MEBCHAMTS. 

The  undersigned  pay  their  particular  attention  to  filling 
orders  for 

Rosin,  Palm  Oil,  Soda  Asli,  Sal  Soda, 
Caustic  Soda,  Indigo,  &:c.  Consignments 
of  Tallow,  Grease,  and  General  Western 
Produce  promptly  sold  by 

ABRAM  KMI«HT  &  SO  AS, 

Commissi®  11  Merclsamts, 

32  Water-§t.5  Mew-York  City. 


Pparl-^ 


ef 


Mew-^Vorli* 


Prodtacc  Commission  Mcrciiants, 


FOE  THE  SAM  OF 


Send  for  "Weeki.t  Pbick  Cukrbnt,  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular  witli  Packing  and  Sliipping  directions. 

Country  Consignments  receive  special  attention. 
REFERENCES : 

Ben|.  Loder,  Esq.,  N.  V 


-Pres’t.  Erie  K.  K. 
Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Chicago,  Ill. 
Hon.  J.  K.  Porter, 
Albany,  N.  Y. 


tVm.  S.  Thorn,  Esq,,  N.  T. 

Brest.  Ka’l  Fire  Ins.  Co. 
Lane,  Son  &  Co.,  N.  Y. 
Truman,  Stratton  &  Co., 
Orange.  N.  Y. 

Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O. 


SEVEN  OCTAVE.  ^^7^, 

ROSEWOOD  PIANO-FORTES. 

GKOVESTEEN  &  CO.,  4»»  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

New,  enlarged  Scale  Piano  Fortes,  with  latest  improvements. 

Thirty  years’  experience,  with  greatly  Increased  facilities 
for  mannfactming,  enable  us  to  sell  for  CASH  at  the  above 
unusually  low  price.  Our  instruments  received  the  highest 
award  at  tlie  World’s  Fair,  and  for  five  sucpessive  years  at 
the  American  Institute.  Warranted  five  years.  Terms 
net  Casli.  Call  or  send  for  descriptive  circular. 

PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
Sent  by  Express  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Prices,  Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO., 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 

FEKTttIZEKS  I  % 

Lister’s  Pure  Ground  Bone. 
Per©  Pes*iavlaii  ftiiaii©. 

E.  F.  COE’S  SUPERPHOSPHATE  OF  LIME. 

Briice’g  Concentrated  Fertilizers. 

F^laster*,  I^oircirettej  etc. 

For  sale  In  quantities  to  suit  purchasers.  Send  in  touk 
Obdkbs  eaelt, 

R.  H.  ALLEN  &  CO., 

189  &  191  Water-st.,  New-York. 


SOME  TA-FEUn 

Has  been  tested  by  thousands  of  farmers  and 
found  superior  to  any  other  manure  for  Fall 
and  Winter  grain,  and  for  a  top-dressing  on 
lawns  and  meadows. 

It  is  manufactured  for  and  used  as  a  substi¬ 
tute  for  Peruvian  guano,  and  judged  by  many 
to  be  fully  equal  to  it.  It  is  sold  at  the  low 
price  of  $4.6  per  Ton. 

Manufactured  only  by  the 
LODI  MANUFACTURING  COMPANY, 

66  Courtlandt-st.,  New  York, 
to  whom  all  orders  must  be  addressed. 

AinmoiilatccJ  Pacific  CriiaBio. 

A  real  guano,  containing  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  cent 
of  Phospliate  of  Lime  ;  to  which  has  been  added  by  a  chem¬ 
ical  process,  a  large  percentage  of  actual  Ammonia,  so  fixed 
tliat  it  can  not  evaporate,  making  it  eqiml,  if  not  superior,  to 
any  other  fertilizer.  Price  $80  per  net  ton.  A  liberal  dis¬ 
count  to  the  Trade. 

Pamphlets  with  copies  of  analysis  by  Dr.  Jackson,  Mass. 
State  Assayer.  and  Hr.  Liebig,  of  Baltimore,  and  testimonials 
from  scientific  agriculturists,  showing  its  value,  can  be 
obtained  from  J.  0.  BAKER  &  CO.,  Selling  Agents. 

ISl  Pearl-st,,  New-York 


Every  Child  on  the  Continent  should  have  it  I 

Ths  Best  CHldren’s  Paper  in  America. 


Fighting  against 
'Wrong,  and  for  tbs 
Good,  the  Trup ,  and 
the  B.:autifuL 
k  FIrst*Cl&s9  Monthly  Paper,  of  IG 
Pages,  for  HOYS  and  GIRLS. 

$1.00  a  Year  ia  advance. 

A  Beautiful  Premium  to  every  subscriber. 

Speclmeu  Copy  sent  for  Ten  Cents, 
Address, 

ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 
Publisher,  Chicago,  Ill. 


“Mr.  Sewell’s  Paper  already  excels  every  other  children's 
paper  that  we  know  of  in  this  country.” — Chicago  Eve.  Jour, 

ALL  THE  HEW  SHEET  MUSIC 

And.  Music  Books, 

Mailed  post-paid  on  receipt  of  Price.  Catalogues  of  up¬ 
wards  of  Twenty-five  Tliousand  Pieces  and  Five  Hundred 
Books,  comprising  every  variety  of  Instruction  and  Music 
for  tlie  Voice  and  every  Musical  Instrument,  will  be  sent  free 
to  any  one  on  application,  by  OLIVER  DITSON  &  CO., 
Music  Publisiiers,  Boston. 


ROGUES 


AND  ROGUERIES  OF  N.  T. 
Now  Ready.  180  12  mo.  pages,  only 
25  cents.  Sent  post-paid.  Tells  all 
about  Lotteries,  Policy  Dealers,  Mat¬ 
rimonial  Advertisements,  “Personals,”  Fortune  Telling, 
Witclies  of  N.  Y.,  Gift  Concerts  and  Gift  Jeivelry,  Gamblers 
and  their  Victims,  Garroting,  Highway  Robbery,  Pickpock 
cts,  Patent  Safe,  Pocket  Book  Dropping,  Thimble-rig,  Con¬ 
cert  Saloons  and  “Pretty  Waiter  Girls,”  Social  Evil,  Pro¬ 
curesses,  Panel  Game,  Hackmen,  Quacks  and  Medical  Hum¬ 
bugs,  S.  T.  1860  X,  Moustache  forcers  and  otlier  swindles. 
Petroleum  Swindles,  Bubble  Companies,  Gold  Mines  and 
Mining  Companies,  Love  Powders,  what  they  are  made  of, 
How  to  Become  Invisible,  Agricultural  Prophets,  Transmu¬ 
tation,  Situation  Agencies,  Sewing  Machine  Swindles,  Per¬ 
ambulating  Swindlers,  Confidence  Games,  Professional  Beg¬ 
gars,  Heirs  Wanted,  Counterfeiters  and  Counterfeiting,  Ex¬ 
poses  all  Swindles  carried  on  through  the  Mail.  Shows  up 
all  kinds  of  Rascality.  Useful  and  entertaining  to  all.  120 
pages,  beautifully  illustrated,  only  25  cents,  post-paid.  Sold 
by  all  Dealers.  J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO.,  Publishers,  109  Nas- 
sau-street,  New-York. 


Silver’s  Mew  Foiiltry 

BOOK,  tells  how  to  have  fresh  eggs  every  week 
in  the  year.  Beautifully  illustrated  with  70  en¬ 
gravings.  Agents  Wanted.  Sent  post-paid  for 
50  cents.  Address  L.  B.  SILVER,  Salem,  Ohio. 


The  hog  BREEDER’S  MANUAL  sent  to  any 
address  free  of  cliarge,  every  farmer  should  liave  It. 
Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Cliester  Co.,  Pa. 


ly 

Nothing  low  or  immoral. 

HANEY  &  CO.;  109 


Full  of  funny  pictures. 
Sent  post-paid  for  30  cents. 


4assau-st.,  New-York. 


The  model  magazine  of  America.— 

September  No.  of  Demoeest’s  Monthly,  with  Brilliant 
and  Spicy  Novelties.  Single  copies  25  cents.  Mailed  free  on 
receipt  of  price.  Y'earlv  $8,  with  a  valuable  Premium.  Ad¬ 
dress  W.  JENNINGS  DEMOREST,  No.  39  Beekman-st. 


f2S 


CASH  Given  for  Origiiial  Coiiiiiadrums. 
See  Meira‘ysMa,n’s  Mojttlily,  September.  A 
i^iuuicc  lur  All.  Howto  make  a  Punch  and  Judy  Show, 
“Cum-clier-cum,”  Comic  lite  of  Barnura  with  all  his  hum¬ 
bugs,  Our  Sanctum,  etc.  Prize  Puzzle  and  Greenback 
Prizes  every  month.  Rare  Fun  tliis  month— he  on  hand. 
Sold  everywliere  at  1,5  cts.,  sent  post-paid  on  receipt  of 
price:  3  samples  post-paid,  30  cents.  No  free 
copies.  HANEY  &  CO.,  109  Nassau-st.,  N.  T.  ^^99 
Will  be  sent  6  montlis,  July  to  Dec.,  inclusive,  for  60  cts. 
Editors  inserting  above  will  receive  copy  six  niontbs. 
“  We  suppose  people  must  laugh.  If  they  feel  that  they 
must,  they  had  better  laugh  ove’  Slerryman  tlian  over  the 
vulgar  trash  which  frequently  ^*.sses  for  Philadelphia 

Presbyterian  Standard. 

I”’!  RACEFUL  AND  ECONOMICAL  ARE  THE 
terms  which  mtw  be  appropriately  applied  to  Mme. 
Demorest’s  Imperial  Dress  Elevators,  fortliey  raise  the  dress 
in  such  a  way  that  it  hangs  gracefully  round  the  person  and, 
by  lifting  it  from  tlie  sidewalk,  the  economy  is  apparent. 
They  are  75  cents,  and  sold  at  4?3  Broadway. 

BONE  DUST. 

For  Pure,  Fresh  Bone  Superphosphate  of  Lime,  and  fine 
Ground  Bone  Dust,  Wholesale  or  Retail. 

Address  A.  LISTER  &  BRO., 

Cekks  Bonk  Mills, 

Newark,  k  J. 

American  roofing  company. 

GREEN’S  PATENT. 

This  Company  is  now  prepared  to  furnish  one  of  tlie  best 
articles  of  liOOFiNG  ever  Introduced,  consisting  of  a  STOUT 
MATERIAL  made  WATER-PROOF  by  a  COMPOUND  of 
INDIA  RUBBER,  liavdened  by  a  coat  of  METALLIC  PAINT, 
prepared  expressly. 

The  WHOLE  FABRIC  has  been  thorouglily  tested,  is  entire¬ 
ly  WATER-PROOF,  and  unafl'ected  by  changes  of  weather. 

It  rolls  up  and  unrolls  like  a  piece  of  Oil  Clotli. 

It  is  designed  for  covering  RAILWAY  CARS.  STEAM¬ 
BOATS,  DWELLINGS,  BARNS  and  SHEDS.  It  can  be 
laid  down  by  any  sensible  working  man. 

It  is  cheaper  tlian  any  known  roofing  of  equal  darabllity. 
It  can  be  seen  in  use  and  samples  liail  by  applying  at  th® 
Office  of  the  Company.  No.  4)4  Wall-st.,  New  York. 

HENRY  SMITH,  Agent. 


1865.] 


A.MERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


295 


TO  ADVERTISERS. 


Mercl»ant8,  Manufacturers,  Inventors, 
Real  Estate  Oivners,  Scliools,  and -all 
otUcrs  wUo  desire  to  reacU  Custom¬ 
ers  In  all  parts  of  tlic  Country,  as 
well  as  In  the  City,  will  find  It 
to  their  Interest  to  Adver¬ 
tise  In 

THE  NEW  -  YORK  TRIBUNE. 


The  circulation  of  THE  TRIBUNE  is  larger  than  that  of 
any  other  Newspaper,  and  it  is  read  hy  the  most  enterpris¬ 
ing,  thrifty,  and  industrious  classes.  Advertisements  insert¬ 
ed  in  each  of  the  editions  of  THE  TRIBUNE, — DAILY, 
SEMI-WEEKLY,  .and  WEEKLY,  will  be  read  hy  nearly  a 
million  of  people,  and  no  investment  pays  a  business  man 
BO  well  as  the  money  lie  spends  in  judicious  advertising. 
The  investigation  hy  the  Mayor  and  Controller  of  the  city 
resulted  in  naming  the  DAILY  TRIBUNE  as  being  one  of 
the  two  papers  having  the  largest  daily  circulation,  and  its 
weekly  edition  is  acknowledged  to  he  far  greater  than  that 
of  any  other  Newspaper 


Kates  of  Adrei-tising’  in  tlie  New- 
Yorlc  I>aily  Trihwne. 

Ordinary  Advertisements,  classified  under  appropriate 
heads,  FrFTEEN'  Cents  per  line  cacii  insertion. 

(ABOUT  EIGHT  WORDS  AVERAGE  A  LINE.) 

THE  WEEKEY  TRIHENE. 

Onb  Dollar  per  line  each  insertion. 

SEJim-WEEKtiY  TRIBErVE. 

Twenty  Five  Cents  per  line  each  Insertion. 

OPINIONS  OF  ADVERTISERS. 

Boston",  Dec.  10, 1863. 

Our  experience  In  advertising  in  Thb  Weeio-y  Tribune, 
has  satiswctorily  proved  to  us  that  it  is  one  of  the  hest  me* 
diums  for  advertising  in  the  country.  We  have  often  re¬ 
ceived  what  we  know  to  be  direct  returns  for  it,  and  are 
only  surprised  that  more  do  not  avail  themselves  of  your 
wi/e  circulation.  Yours^^mgi  ^  ^ 

Publishers  and  Booksellers. 

New-Yokk,  Dec.  11, 1863. 

Several  ye.ars  of  quite  constant  use  of  the  book  advertis¬ 
in''  columns  of  The  Tkibune  has  satisfied  me  that  through 
no”other  paper  can  a  larger  class  of  intelligent  buyers  be 
addressed 

I  have  also  found  The  Weekly,  notwithstanding  the  ap- 
narent  hlgli  rates  charged  for  space,  a  most  economical,  as 
well  as  sure,  means  for  reaching  large  numbers  ol  energetic 
men,  and  securin';  their  services  as  agents.  .  .  „  , 

N  C  MiClER,  Publisher  of  Subscription  Books, 

New-York. 


Boston,  Dec.  9, 1863. 

We  consider  The  Weekly  Tribune  of  the  best  me¬ 
diums  for  advertising  our  publications.  .Notwithstandino  iw 
seemingly  high  charges,  its  very  large  circulapon  renders  it 
one  of  the  clieapest  and  best  DITSON°&^CO 


public. 


EMPORIUM  OF  FASHIONS,  ) 

No.  473  Broadway,  New-York,  Dec.  10,  1863.  ) 

I  am  disposed  to  speak  in  the  most  cn^hatic  terrw  In  reP 
erence  to  my  appreciation  of  both  The  Daily  and  Weekly 
Tribune,  especially  The  Weekly,  as  an 
um,  receiving,  as  I  do,  a  large  number  of  letters  each  day, 
sometimes  amounting  to  three  or  TnTn?rx’T? 

large  proportion  of  them  refer  directly  to  T 
notwithstanding  my  advertising  embraces 
papers  in  the  country.  I  cannot,  therefore,  do  otheiwise 
than  attribute  the  increase  of  my  business  in  a  large  degree 
to  the  publicity  secured  through  your  valuable  paper. 

Respectfully  yours.  ^EMOREST. 


THE  PROFIT  OF  ADVERTISING-A  BUSINESS  MAN'S 
EXPERIENCE. 

We  found  the  following  letter  from  Mr.  A.  Mobton,  in 
The  New- York  Tribune,  a  few  days  siime.  Mr.  Morton, 
as  is  well  known,  is  tlie  manufacturer  of  the  celebrated  Gold 
Pens  advertised  In  our  columns.  He  is  one  of  the  most  ex¬ 
tensive  and  judicious  advertisers  in  the  country,  and  we 
would  respectfullv  commend  his  ideas  on  that  subject  to  our 
business  men.  We  do  this  In  recognition  of  tlie  value  of 
The  New-York  Tribune  as  an  advertising  medium,  and 

,  ••  j  iLi  -i. _ _  1 _ ...»  i-rs.  Kaltaira  tttof  in  nmnnrt.lAn 


secured  iroiu  ms  aaveriisius  ui  me  Express.  ..e  s”'-  — 
letter  as  it  appeared  in  The  Tribune.— Express. 

Mr  Greeley — Mij  Dear  Sir :  You  have  done  a  great 
deil  of  work  for  me  in  the  way  of  advertising,  for  wliich  you 
have  been  paid  so  far  as  accounts  current  are  concerned. 
But  I  owe  you  another  obligation,  which  dollars  and  cents 
will  not  pay.  Through  your  advice,  and  youia  alone,  I  was 
led  to  advertise.  For  ten  or  eleven  years  1  had  earned  on  a 
fair  business  without  advertising,  and  no  man  in  my  employ 
was  ever  out  of  work,  except  as  a  matter  of  favor  to  him, 
until  the  eommencemeiit  of  the  present  hard  times.  On  the 
very  day  of  the  first  call  of  the  President  for  Volunteers, 

■  having  a  large  stock  of  goods  on  hand,  I  stopped  my  m^anu- 
factory  and  remained  idle  for  nine  months.  1  tried  adver¬ 
tising.  at  first  in  a  amali  way,  I  found  that  paid.  At  the  end 
of  three  months  I  increased  the  amount  njore  than  ten  timp, 
using  a  great  many  papers,  many  of  them  pretty  liberally, 
and  for  the  last  five  months  have  advertised  more  extensive¬ 
ly  than,  perhaps,  any  other  coneern  in  the  country.  My  njen 
are  a'>'ain  busily  at  work  on  full  time,  although  since  Decem¬ 
ber  last  I  have  changed  my  system  of  business  from  six  and 
eight  months’  credit  to  net  cash.  I  am  now  making  mors 


goods,  and  selling  more  goods,  than  at  any  time  since  the 
panic  of  1837. 

For  all  this,  I  am  greatly  your  debtor,  and  I  wish  to  say  to 
you.  and  through  you  to  all  Interested,  that  I  now  know  Uiat 
advertising  pays.  I  have  also  learned  that  advertising  very 
largely  brings  a  miicli  larger  per  centiige  of  return  than  ad¬ 
vertising  in  the  usual  way.  Permit  me  also,  in  justice  to  you, 
to  say  that  in  my  estimation  The  New-York  Weekly  tri¬ 
bune  is  the  best  advertising  medium  on  tliis  continent,  and 
although  the  amount  I  have  expended  in  other  papers  has 
been  vastly  greater  than  that  expended  in  The  Weekly 
Tribune,  yet  were  I  compelled  to  choose  between  this  and 
all  other  papers  Ip  which  I  iiave  advertised  together,  I  would 
prefer  The  Weekly  Tetbunk,  as  I  firmly  believe  that  my 
returns  from  it  have  lieen  greater  than  from  tliem  all. 

I  think,  tlierefore,  that  any  one  having  a  good  article  wlilch 
he  can  sell  cheap,  and  wliicli  is  or  ought  to  lie  in  universal 
demand,  wlio  will  fairly  try  The  New-7'ork  Tribune,  will 
not  be  disappointed  in  return,  except  agreeably. 

Very  respectfully,  your  much  indelited, 

A.  MORTON. 

Address  THE  TRIBUNE,  No.  134  Nassau-st.,  New-York. 

AGENTS  WANTED 

TO  SELL 

SHERMAN 

AND 

HIS  CAMPAIGNS  ; 

BY 

Col.  S.  M.  BOWMM,  and  Lt.  Col.  R.  B.  IRWIlV. 

1  Vol.  8vo. ;  500  Pages.  Cloth,  $3.50. 

WITH  EIGHT  SPLENDID  STEEL  PORTRAITS, 

AND  MAPS,  PLANS,  &C- 


No  other  Official  and  Authentic  History  of 
this  great  Army  will  be  published,  for  no  other 
writers  can  have  access  to  the  private  and  ofllcial  papers  of 
the  several  commanders.  AH  such  Information  is  furnished 
for  this  work  exclusively. 

The  following  letter  from  Gen.  Sherman  shows  the  official 
character  of  the  work  : 

Lancaster,  Ohio,  July  31,  1865. 

0.  B.  Richardson,  Esq.,  510  Broadway,  N.  Y.: 

Sir,— Col.  S.  M.  Bowman,  an  acquaintance  of  mine  since 
1853,  and  more  recently  in  the  service  of  the  U.  S..  has  had 
access  to  my  Order  and  Letter  Books,  embracing  copies  of 
all  orders  made  and  letters  written  by  me  since  the  winter  of 
1861-2,  with  a  view  to  publisli  a  memoir  of  my  Life  and  Ser¬ 
vices,  and  no  other  person  has  had  such  an  opportunity  to 
read  my  secret  thoughts  and  acts.  I  believe  him  to  be  in 
possession  of  ail  authentic  facts  that  can  iiiterp.st  tlie  general 
reader.  I  am,  &c.,  W.  T.  SHERM.4.N,  Major  General. 

The  volume  is  illustrated  with  splendid  STEEL  POR' 
TRAITS  of  Maj.  Generals  Sherman,  Schofield,  Howard, 
Slocum,  Logan,  Blair,  Davis,  and  Kilpatrick,  and  with 
carefully  prepared  .Mans  and  Diagrams,  furnished  by  Gener¬ 
al  O.  M.  Poe,  Chief  Engineer  of  the  Army,  and  finely  en¬ 
graved  on  stone. 

To  all  who  have  served,  in  any  capacity,  in  these  hrilliant 
campaigns,  the  work  will  he  in valabie ;  while  to  all  wlio  have 
had  relatives  or  friends  so  engaged,  it  will  be  of  absorbing 
interest  and  value.  It  is  a  record  of  brilliant  aclilevemeuts 
iu  which  every  citizen  ivlll  feel  a  life-long  pride. 

The  Work  Is  sold  only  by  Subscription. 

AGENTS  IVANTED  in  every  county  East  of  the  Alleglia- 
nies.  Exclusive  territory  given,  and  liberal  inducements 
otfered.  Agents  will  find  the  sale  of  the  book  universal,  for 
every  reading  man  will  want  a  copy. 

For  full  particulars.  Address 

C.  B.  RICHARDSON,  Publisher, 

510  Broadway,  New-York. 
Agents  west  of  the  Alleghanies  will  address 

C.  P.  VENT  &  CO.,  Cincinnati,  Ohio, 

New  England  Agents  will  address 

W.  J.  HOIiliAND,  Springfield,  Mass. 

THE  FKAIKIE  FAMMEM. 

Published  weekly  at  Chicago,  Illinois,  where  it  has  been 
published  for  a  quarter  of  a  century. 

It  contains  more  practical  Information  on  'Western  Ag’ 
EIOULTURAL  and  Horticultukal  matters,  than  can  he 
obtained  from  any  dozen  other  periodicals  in  the  land. 

Its  market  Intelligence  and  “  Record  of  the  Season  ” 
convey  to  the  reader  the  general  condition  of  the  crops  and 
markets  of  the  country,  better  than  any  other  medinin. 

Its  articles  are  written  by  the  most  practical  men  in  Agri¬ 
culture,  Horticulture,  and.  Stock  Baising. 

Its  miscellaneous  department  makes  it  a  welcome 
visitor  into  the  homes  of  both  town  and  country  people. 

It  will  help  to  grow  the  best  crops. 

It  will  assist  in  obtaining  the  best  prices  for  them  when 
grown. 

It  will  give  reports  of  Agricultural  Societies  and  meetings. 

It  will  give  the  most  reliable  information  about  setting 
out  and  taking  care  of  Fruit  Trees,  with  reports  of  Horti¬ 
cultural  Societies  in  the  West. 

It  will  give  information  concerning  the  hest  breeds  of 
Stock  and  how  to  treat  them  when  sick  and  well. 

Western  Farmers  consult  your  interests  and  take  the 
Prairie  Farmer. 

The  price  is  only  $2.00  per  year,  the  same  as  before  the  war. 
Subscriptions  may  commence  at  any  time,  and  club  papers 
sent  to  as  many  different  offlccs  as  desired. 

A  good,  active  Agent  wanted  at  every  Post  Office,  where 
we  have  not  one  already  established,  to  wliotn  full  particu¬ 
lars  will  be  given  on  application,  and  sample  numbers  sent. 

Address  EMERY  &  CO.,  Chicago,  Illinois. 

(4Soodricli’s)  Garnet  Chili  Seedling  Potatoes 
tor  seed,  St  $5  per  barrel,  at  IJ,  If.  Address  -with  remittance, 
D.  CONGI5B,  Wolcott,  N.  Y. 


BOOKS  FOB  FABMERS  and  OTHERS. 


[Any  of  tlie  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 
fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  October  Ist,] 

Allen's  (L.  P".)  Rural  Architecture . . . $  i  50 

Allen's  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book .  1  50 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals .  1  oo 

American  Bird  Fancier .  30 

American  Rose  Ciiltiirlst .  30 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants .  1  75 

Art  of  Saw  Filing  ..  .(Holly) .  60 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden  .  1  75 

Beecher’s  (Henry  Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming..  1  25 

Benicnt’s  Poulterer’s  Companion .  2  OO 

Bemetit's  Rabbit  Fancier .  so 

Blake's  Farmer’s  Encvclopedia .  1  .50 

Boiissingaiilt’s  Rural  Economy .  1  60 

Briilgenian’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual .  75 

Bridgeniaii’s  Young  Gardener's  Assistant .  2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kltclien  Garden  Instructor .  75 

Bridgeniaii’s  Florist's  Guide .  75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  German) .  50 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers .  1  50 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  .Manures .  1  50 

Biihst’s  Flower  garden  Directory .  i  50 

Biiist’a  Family  Kitelien  Gardener .  1  00 

Burr’s  Vegetables  ol  America .  5  00 

Carpenters  and  .Joiners’  Hand  Book.  (Holly) .  60 

(jhorlton’s  (Jrape-Grower’s  Guide .  75 

(!;ohhett’s  American  Gardener .  75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book .  60 

Cole’s  Veterinarian . 75 

(joliiian’s  Agriculture . .  5  00 

Clopeland’s  Country  Life .  4  50 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper  .  75 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  (Turner) .  1  50 

Dadd's  Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  50 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor .  1  .50 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual .  1  26 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’, s) .  30 

Downing's  Landscape  Gardening  (new  Edition) .  6  50 

Downing’s  Cottage  Residences .  2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America .  3  OO 

Eastwood  on  Crnnherry .  75 

Elliott's  Western  [''riiit  Grower’s  Guide .  1  50 

Employment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny .  1  50 

Fessenden’s  Complete  B'armer  and  Gardener .  1  50 

Flax  Culture .  50 

French’s  Farm  Drainage .  1  50 

Field's  (Tlionias  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  25 

Fisli  Culture . .  125 

Flint  (CliarlesL.)  on  Grasses .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milc.li  Cows  and  Dairy  I''.arming . .  2  OO 

Fuller’s  Grape  Ciilturist .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Ciilturist . 20 

Goodale's  Principles  of  Breeding . .  1  25 

Gray’s  Manual  ol  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  'Vo! .  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  25 

Guenon  oil  Milcli  Cows . 75 

Hall's  (Miss)  American  Cookery .  1  35 

Harnszthv  Grape  Culture,  &c .  5  M 

Harris'  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain .  3  50 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.. .  4  50 

Herliert’.s  Hints  to  Horsekeepers .  1  75 

Hints  to  Rifieiuen,  hy  Cleveland .  1  30 

Holly’s  Country  Seats .  4  50 

Hop  Culture . 40 

Hoiv  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Wliere  to  Find  One .  1  73 

Insect  Enemies  of  Fruit  Trees,  (Trimble) .  S  00 

Jaqnes’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees .  00 

Jennings  on  Cattle.  Slieep.  &o .  1  30 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  75 

Joliiistoii's  Eleiiients  of  Agricultural  Chemiatry .  1  25 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  W 

Langstrotli  on  tlie  Honey  Bee  .  2  00 

Loudon’s  (Downing's)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden .  2  03 

Leiiehar’s  How  to  Build  Hot-lioiises .  1  50 

Liebig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Clieiiiistry .  50 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture .  1  25 

Lleliig’s  Natural  Laws  of  Husbandry . . .  1  50 

Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses .  1  50 

Manual  of  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint.  1  85 

Mavtiew’s  Illnstrated  Horse  Doctor  .  3  50 

Mavliew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management . .  3  50 

McMalioii’3  American  Gardener .  2  .50 

Jlilos  on  the  Horse's  foot .  75 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd .  1  75 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood .  2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record .  1  50 

Neill’s  Practical  (Jardeiier _ (Pardee) .  1  50 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorglio  and  Iiiiphee .  1  25 

Onion  Ciilthre  .  20 

Our  Farm  ofFoiir  Acres  (hound)  60e . (paper)  30 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . .  1  50 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves .  2  00 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer .  60 

Quiiihv’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping .  1  75 

Rabbit  Fancier . 30 

Randall’s  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  50 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Slieep  Husbandry .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden . .  3  00 

Richardson  on  the  Dog .  80 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses .  50 

Rural  Ati'airs. .. .(hound). ...SVoIs... .each .  1  50 

Saunder’s  Domestic  Poultry.... paper,  30  cts. ..bound. .  60 

Saxton’s  Farmers'  Library,  .set  of3  VolS-  .morocco .  9  50 

do  do  do  do  3Vols..cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book .  75 

Shepherd’s  own  Book .  2  25 

Skillful  Housewife  .  , 

Siiiitli’s  Landscape  Gardening .  1  W 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Children .  1  50 

Stewart’s  (John)  Stable  Book —  .  1  50 

Templeton’s  Meclianic’s  Pocket  Companion .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enough . , . .  150 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture . .  2  oO 

Thomas’  Fruit  Ciilturist .  J  50 

Thompson's  Food  of  Animals .  1  00 

Tobacco  Culture  . « 

Todd’s  (S^vE.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual .  1  50 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Afl'airs .  30 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages . . . . .  3  TO 

Villas  and  Farm  Cottages.  (Cleaveland  and  Backus)...  3  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soli  Culture .  1  to 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  1  50 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . . .  1  00 

Watson's  American  Home  Garden  .  2  TO 

■Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making) .  2  TO 

5Vheat  Plant  (.lolin  KHppart’s).... . .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes .  1  5U 

AVoodward’s  Graperies . .  . . .  j  =0 

Yonatt  and  Spooner  on  tlie  Horse . .  1  to 

Youatt  and  .Martin  on  Cattle .  {  to 

Youattoa  theHog .  1™ 

Youatt  on  Sheep .  i  ^ 

Youmans’  Household  Science .  *  to 

foqmans’  Neiy  Chemistry .  «  ou 


Q96 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


HO  !  FOR  1866! 

\ 

TOLUME  TWENTY-FIVE! 
A  Quarter  of  a  Century  ! 

SOMETHIIVG  EXTRA  FOR 

ALgriculturist  K-e  emits. 

The  War  is  over.  The  swords  are  giving  place  to 
plow-shares.  Half  of  the  million  Soldiers  who  have 
saved  the  country,  are  returning  to  the  peaceful 
pursuit  of  tilling  the  soil.  From  this  time  on,  we 
suppose  there  will  be  about  five  million  men  en¬ 
gaged  upou  Uncle  Samuel’s  Great  Farm.  Every 
man  of  them  desires  to  make  his  work  the  most 
effectual  and  profitable  possible.  Clod-hoppers 
will  plod  on  like  so  many  oxen,  getting  perhaps 
only  their  daily  rations  for  hard  toil.  The  best 
thinkers,  those  who  make  the  best  plans,  who 
learn  most  from  others  and  thus  become  the  most 
skillful,  will  turn  their  labor  to  the  best  account, 
and  receive  the  largest  returns.  Every  man  of  the 
five  millions  ought  to  be  observing,  reading,  and 
studying  about  his  business.  A  single  hint  may 
yield  him  many  dollars.  For  example,  we  know  a 
farmer  who  was  sowing  two  ten-acre  fields  of  wheat. 
When  one  was  finished,  a  single  hint  about  prepar¬ 
ing  the  seed,  contained  in  half  a  dozen  printed 
lines  in  his  Agricultural  paper,  gave  him  five  extra 
bushels  of  wheat  per  acre  on  the  second  field, 
worth  over  sixty  dollars,  cash.  Beading  farmers 
are  in  the  way  of  getting  such  hints,  and  every 
cultivator  of  a  farm,  or  even  of  a  garden  plot, 
should  read  all  he  can  about  the  best  crops,  and 
best  modes  of  culture.  Though  he  adopt  nothing 
he  reads,  yet  his  mind  will  be  kept  active,  and  he 
will  devise  new  and  more  profitable  plans  of  his  own. 

Of  the  five  million  cultivators,  only  about 
One  Hundred  Thousand  receive  and  read  the 
Agriculturist  regularly;  and  only  about  as  many 
more,  altogether,  take  and  read  other  similar 
journals.  What  are  the  other  four  millions  eight 
hundred  thousand  cultivators  thinking  of?  We 
believe  the  two  hundred  thousand  reading,  think¬ 
ing  farmers  make  more  real  profit,  and  certainly 
enjoy  their  work  more  than  all  the  other  class. 

What  would  be  the  effect  if,  for  one  year  only. 


— all  doing  good  service,  and  all  of  which  ought  to 
have  ten  times  their  present  circulation.  We  hope 
they  will  all  realize  this  during  the  coming  year. 

As  for  the  Agriculturist,  we  will  take  all  new 
subscribers  that  come  in  for  1866,  and  begin  to  take 
them  NOW,  withozit  extra  charge  I  (See  below.) 

By  the  way,  our  next  volume,  the  SfStli,  will  just 
complete  a  quarter  of  a  century  !  W ould  it  not  be  a 
pleasant  thing  to  have  ten  thousand  subscrib¬ 
ers  for  each  year,  or  350,000  in  all  ?  That  would 
be  only  one  in  every  twenty  of  the  five  millions 
that  ought  to  read  such  a  journal.  We  don’t  ask 
for  so  many,  but  will  take  them  if  they  come,  and 
provide  well  for  them.  If  our  present  readers  say 
so  many  shall  be  secured,  it  will  be  done.  As 
every  new  reader,  coming  in  now,  will  be  an  addi¬ 
tional  helper  in  the  work,  and  also  as  a  special  bo¬ 
nus  or  premium  to  the  first  recruits  to  our  great 
army  of  peaceful  workers,  we  make  the  following 
offer, 

TO  WITs 

Any  new  subscriber  sending  in  this  month  the 
regular  subscription  price  for  volume  35,  will  receive 
the  Agriculturist  for  all  q/’1866,  and  also  the  last  three 
months  of  this  year,  without  any  extra  charge  therefor. 

Sufiicient  time  given  after  the  close  of  this  month 
for  responses  to  this  offer  to  come  from  the  Pa¬ 
cific  States  and  Territories,  and  other  distant  points. 

Will  our  readers  please  make  this  offer  known  to 
all  their  friends  and  neighbors,  and  invite  all  to  em¬ 
brace  it  ?  As  fast  as  the  names  arrive  this  month 
(September,)  we  will  enter  them  right  down  in  our 
books  from  Oct.  1st,  1865,  to  the  end  of  1866,  or  15 
months.  Note  that  this  offer  is  only  for  September. 


(Business  notices — $1  25  per  agate  line  of  space.) 


East  Penn’a  Agi’icultural  School. 

COLLEGE  FARM,  Gwynedd,  Montgomery  Co.,  Pa., 
affording  thorough  professional  training  in  the  principles 
and  practice  of  Agriculture,  including  the  Surveying  and 
Mapping  of  Farms,  Chemical  Analyses  of  Soils  and  Fer¬ 
tilizers,  Veterinary  Practice,  etc.  The  farm  of  175 
acres,  which  is  unsurpassed  in  the  State  for  beauty,  sa¬ 
lubrity,  and  general  adaptedness  to  purposes  of  Agricul¬ 
tural  Education,  is  18  miies  from  Philadelphia,  by  the 
North  Pennsylvania  Railroad. 

Autumnal  Session  begins  Sept.  11,  1865.  Applicants 
must  be  at  least  16  years  of  age,  and  must  possess  some 
knowledge  of  both  algebra  and  eeometry.  For  Circulars 


BOYS  AND  GIRLS. 

A  Nttw  Child's  Papek. — We  have  received  two  copi-s  of 
“  The  liittle  Corporal,”  a  monthly  paper  for  chit- 
dren,  the  publication  of  which  has  been  commenced  at  Clii- 
cago,  Illinois,  by  Alfred  L.  Sewell.  Judging  Irom  these 
specimens,  it  is  the  cleverest  thing  of  its  kind  yet  realized  in 
America.  Its  whole  appearance  is  in  capital  taste,  and  there 
is  evidence  in  it  that  its  editor  has  rare  tact  in  catering  for 
the  wants  of  the  little  ones.  Each  number  contains  sixteen 
pages  of  quarto  size,  beautifully  printed.  This  affords  room 
for  a  great  deal  of  matter,  of  which  an  excellent  variety  is 
given  in  prose  and  poetry.  The  enterprise  deserves  to  be  a 
decided  success.  A  specimen  number  will  be  sent  on  the  re¬ 
ceipt  of  ten  cents  by  the  publisher,  or  the  paper  will  be  fur¬ 
nished  a  year  for  one  dollar.  A  beautiful  steel  engraving, 
called  “The  Children’s  Portrait  of  President  Lincoln,"  is 
sent  as  a  premium  to  subscribers.— AoKftto-y  [J/oss.]  Jour¬ 
nal,  Aug,  5,  1665. 

Now  Ready. 

THE  PRAISE  OF  ZION. 

A  new  Collection  of  Music  for  Singing  Schools,  Choirs, 
Musical  Conventions,  and  the  Home  Circle,  containing  a 
system  of  Musical  Notation  ;  a  variety  of  Exercises, 
Songs,  Glees,  etc.,  for  School  and  Choir  Practice  ;  at 
extensive  Collection  of  Hymn  Tunes,  with  a  large  as¬ 
sortment  of  Sentences,  Anthems,  and  Chants.  By  SO¬ 
LON  WILDER  and  FREDERIC  S.  DAVENPORT. 

The  publishers  call  attention  to  this  new  work  with 
much  confidence,  that  it  will  prove  one  of  the  most  attrac¬ 
tive  and  practically  useful  works  of  its  class,  given  to  the 
public  in  man-  years.  Its  contents  are  characterized  by 
freshness,  variety,  and  real  merit ;  and  have  been  ’drawn 
from  many  eminent  sources,  American  and  European. 
The  best  old  tunes  are  included  with  a  rich  collection  of 
new  music.  Sent  free  by  mail  for  the  price  $1.50.  To 
promote  its  examination  and  introduction,  we  will  send 
a  single  copy  to  any  teacher  or  choir-leader,  on  receipt 
of  seventy-five  cents. 

MASON  BROTHERS, 

596  Broadway,  New-York. 

Sheffield  Scientific  School  of  Yale  College. 

Courses  of  Agricultural  Instruction,  including  the  Prac¬ 
tice  of  Agriculture  and  Horticulture,  Agricultural  Chemistry 
and  Physiology,  Principles  of  Breeding  and  Feeding,  Inju¬ 
rious  Insects,  Rural  Economy,  Forestry,  French  and  German 
Languages,  &c.,  &c.  Open  Sept.  13th.  1865.  For  detailed  Pro¬ 
gramme,  apply  to  Prof.  GEO.  J.  BRUSH,  New  Haven,  Conn. 


Meii)  Tor  Mothers. 

Dr.  Brown’s  BABY  TENDER  relieves  the  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  child.  Is  giving  universal  satis¬ 
faction.  See  full  description  and  Mr.  Judd’s  endorse¬ 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dec.  No.,  1864.  Send  for  Circular 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS.  939  Broadway,  New  York  City. 

Churnings  Made  Easy  ! 

It  is  found  that  by  attaching  the  dasher  of  the  good  old- 
fashioned  dasher  churn  to  the  handle-frame  of  the  cele¬ 
brated  DOTY’S  CLOTHES  WASHER,  and  using  the 
Washer  itself  as  a  se^t,  churning  is  rendered 

Full  FiTe  Times  Easier, 

than  the  usual  way  of  operating  the  dasher. 

See  Advertisement  elsewhere  in  this  paper. 


every  cultivator  in  the  land  should  become  a  reader 
of  papers  and  books  devoted  specially  to  bis  own 
pursuit !  Why,  it  would  add  millions  upon  mil¬ 
lions  to  the  products  of  the  country.  It  would 
give  each  of  them  something  more  to  think  of  du¬ 
ring  the  hours,  and  days,  and  weeks  of  hard  toil, 
and  they  would  be  so  much  happier.  It  would 
dignify  their  calling,  and  make  it  more  interesting 
and  attractive  to  their  sons. 

Can  wc  not  do  something  towards  securing  this 
desirable  end  ?  If  every  reader  of  this  and  other 
journals  would  induce  at  least  one  more  brother 
cultivator  to  become  a  reader,  that  would  count 
something  towards  the  result.  The  Publisher  of 
the  Agriculturist  has  been  abundantly  satisfied  with 
his  own  subscription  list  for  a  year  past,  yet  in 
view  of  such  grand  results,  he  would  willingly 
t.ake  in  an  extra  business  partner  or  two,  and 
double  or  quadruple  the  steam  presses,  so  as  to 
provide  for  a  quarter  or  a  half  million  of  subscrib¬ 
ers.  And  there  are  several  other  good  journals  to 
help  supply  these  five  millions  who  ought  to  read 


address  ALFRED  L.  KENNEDY,  M.D.,  Pres.  Facul¬ 
ty,  Polytechnic  College  Box,  Philadelphia  P.  O. 


Adiroudac  Grape  Vines. 

1  Tear,  No.  1,  Very  strong,  each  $2.00  :  doz.  $18.00 


2,  Strong, 

1,  Very  strong, 

2,  Strong, 

1.  Pruned  for  fruiting, 

2,  do  do 


:  IIS.OO 
l;36.00 
1 128.00 
!  160.00 
$50.00 

Also,  Iona,  Israella,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Concord,  Hartford  Pro¬ 
lific,  Creveling,  Cuyalioga,  Delaware,  Diana,  Maxatawney, 
Miles,  Rebecca,  Rogers’ Nos.  1,  3,  4, 15, 19,  83,  Sherman,  Tele¬ 
graph,  Union  Village,  Yeddo. 

Superior  Vines  at  tlie  lowest  prices.  Sent  securely  packed, 
by  Mail  or  Express,  as  desired.  Send  for  Trade  Circular 
and  Descriptive  Catalogue.  Address 

JOHN  W.  BAILEY,  Plattsburgh,  Clinton  Co.,  N.  Y. 


^XAI%I>ARD  FEARS,  2  to  4  years,  very 

►^strong  and  fine.  Good  assortment  of  varieties. 

Dwaep  Pears,  2  to  3  years.  Very  stocky  and  strong. 

Apples— Standard  and  Dwarf,  thrifty. 

Cherries,  1  and  2  years.  Plums,  2  and  3  years. 

Peaches,  1  year. 

SMALL  FRUITS.— Agriculturist,  and  other  Strawber¬ 
ries.  Evergreens,  Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Roses,  &o. 

Wo  have  paid  special  attention  to  the  cultivation  of  the 
New  Hardy  Grapes,  and  ofl'er  strong,  well-grown  plants 
of  Iona,  Adiro.ndac,  and  Israella,  oy  the  100  or  1000  at 
low  rates.  Also,  Delaware,  Concord,  Diana,  Rerkcca, 
Allen’s  Htrrid,  Hartford  Prolific.  Rogers’  Hybrids, 
Creveling,  and  nearly  all  the  valuable  kinds.  Also  a 
splendid  lot  of  Delaware  and  Diana  Layers,  many  of 
them  with  6  feet  bearing  wood. 

Address  with  stamp,  for  Price  List. 

BRONSON,  GRAVES  &  SELOVER, 
Waslilngton-st,  Nursery,  GENEVA,  N.  Y. 


Ne’w  Canaan  Nurseries. 

The  Subscribers  have  tlielr  usual  Nursery  Stock  for  Sale, 
including  a  large  and  superior  stock  of  Apple  Trees.  Also, 
Hartford  Prolinc,  and  Concord  Grape  Vines.  Address 

STEPHEN  HOYT  &  SONS,  New  Canaan,  Conn. 


^meriran  ^grinilturist. 

For  the  Farm,  Garden,  and  Household. 

A  THOROUGH-GOING,  RELIABLE,  and  PRACTICAL 
Journal,  devoted  to  the  different  departments  of  SOIL 
CULTURE — such  as  growing  field  CROPS  ;  orchard 
and  garden  FRUITS;  garden  VEGETABLES  and 
FLOWERS;  trees,  plants,  and  flowers  for  the 
LAWN  or  YARD  ;  careof  DOMESTIC  ANIMALS,  etc., 
and  to  HOUSEHOLD  LABORS — with  an  interesting, 
instructive  department  for  CHILDREN  and  YOUTH. 

The  Editors  are  all  practical  WORKING  MEN 

The  teachings  of  the  Agriculturist  are  confined  to  no 
State  or  Territory,  but  are  adapted  to  all  sections  of  the 
country — it  is  for  the  whole  American  Continent. 

TERMS  (in  advance);  $1.50  per  year;  Four 
Copies  one  year  for  $5  J  Ten  Copies  one  year  for  $1% ; 
Twenty  or  more  Copies  one  year  for  SI  each. 

f^Add  to  the  above  rates:  Postage  to  Canada,  12  cents; 
to  England  and  France,  ’24  cents  ;  to  Germany,  36  cents. 

Postage  anywliere  in  the  United  States  and  Territories 
must  be  paid  by  the  subscriber,  and  is  only  three  cents  a 
quarter,  if  paid  in  advance  at  the  office  where  it  is  received. 
Address  communications  to  the  Publisher  and  Proprietor, 

ORANGE  JUDD,  41  Park-Row,  New-York  City. 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


FOR 


ITgurm,  Gra-rcien,  and.  Idonseliold. 


“AeKIOULTUKE  18  THE  MOST  HEALTIIFCL,  MOST  USEFUL,  ANB  MOST  NOBLE  EMPLOYMENT  OF  MAN.>’-WiflmNOMa, 


JUIJ»»  Sc  CO., 

PUBLISHEES  AND  PHOPKIBTOKS. 
Office,  41  Park  Row,  (Times  Buildings.) 


ESTABLISHED  IN  1842. 

Pubiislicd.  also  In  Oei-man.  at  ®1.50  a  Year. 


r  $1.50  PER  AENUM,  m  ADVANCE 
j  SINGLE  HUMBER,  15  CENTS. 

V  4  Copies  for  $  5 ;  10  for  818;  80  or  more,  $  1  each 


VOLUME  XXIV-No.  10.  NEW- YORK,  OCTOBER,  1865.  new  SERIES-No.  225. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  the  year  1864,  by 
Obanqe  Judd,  in  the  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  the  Southern  District  of  New-Tork. 

Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  (/“each  article  be  credited  to  American  AgriculiiirieU 


Contents  for  October,  1865. 


Advice  Asked  and  Given  ....  . . . ,.310 

Agricnltural  Department  at  Washington — Strategy. ..  311 

Apple— The  Porter..  . . .  ...  ..Illustrated -.Z15 

Autumn  Leaves  and  Fruits  . . . 315 

Barnyard — Howto  Make  Good............ . .....306 

Bees — A  piary  in  October . . . .  299 

Bones— Colleciing  and  Grinding . . .  . . 305 

Boot  Legs— Use  for  Old  . 318 


Boys  and  Girls’  Columns — Enjoyments  at  Home — 
About  Weights  and  Measures — Do  you  Know  How 
to  Read  ? — Evading  High  Postage  Rates— Puzzles 
and  Problems — A  Stitclirn  Time — The  Inventor  of 
Sewing  Machines — A  Kind  Act  Rewarded — Portrait 
of  Chief  Justice  Chase — Singular  Features  in  a 

Landscape... . . . 4  //(MstraUoras. .319-320 

Broom  Com — Breaking  Down  and  Cutting  . 307 

Buckwlieal— Harvesting.  .....  ... Illustrated. .310 

Bulbs — Notes  on  Spring  Flowering  2  Illustrations.. 310 

Cabbages  and  Cauliflowers  in  Cold  Frames . 311 

Charlock  or  Field  Mustard — Exterminating . ....307 

Chee.se  from  Few  Cows.  . . . .  . 313 

Drains — Making  with  Plank.... _ 2  Illustrations ..300 

Embroidery — New  and  Beautiful . ..318 

Exliibition — N.  Y.  State  Agricultural  Society . 304 

Exliibilions — Agr’l — Times  and  Places  of  Holding....  301 

Farm  Work  In  October.......... . . . ...297 

Flies— To  Get  Rid  of  ..  . . . ....318 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  October . 290 

Flower  Pits  and  Green-Houses.. . Illustrated.  .311: 

Flowers — Datura  arborea . . . Illustrated.  .313 

Fruit  Garden  in  October . . . 290 

Fruit  Picking  and  Fruit  Pickers.... 3  Illustrations.  .305 

Garden  Edgings— Plants  for . .....313 

Garden -Kitchen  in  October . 293 

Garden  Ortiainent — Datura  arborea . Illustrated.  .313 

Glanders  and  Farcy — Symptoms  of...... Illustrated.  .300 

Grapes  atid  Grape  Culture — Notes  on _ ........  .311 

Grapes — Cold  Grapery  in  October.... . . 299 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  October . 299 

Greeti  Corn — To  Remove  from  the  Cob..... . ,..313 

Knots— Bowlitic,  Farmers’,  etc . 6  Illustrations .  .305 

La vetider— Cultivation . Illustrated .  .3\3 

Manure  Pile — How  to  Increase . . . 306 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes.. . .309 

Notes  and  Suggestions  for  October . 297 

Olives  and  Olive  Oil . . _ Illustrated.  .311 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  October . . . .......298 

Oxen  Profitable  Teams . . . 308 

Painting  old  Wood  Work . . . .317 

Pear  Culture — Is  it  Profitable?........ . 314 

Potatoes — How  to  Dig.... . .  . 307 

Poultry — Black  Spanish  Fowls . Illustrated.  .300 

Premiums  for  1806  ... . 300 

Recipes,  etc.— Bread  at  Sea— Christmas  Pudding 
without  Eggs — Hard  Molasses  Gingerbread — Mo¬ 
lasses  Sponge  Cake— To  Clean  Geese— Best  Meth¬ 
od  for  Keeping  Beef . 313 

Squash,  New— Custard  Marrow.. ...2  Illustrations.  .311 

Tomato — Libel  on . 318 

Trout  and  other  Fish-Breeding,.  3  Illustrations .  .312, 

Weed — The  Indian  Mallow........ _ Illustrated.  .311 

Wheat  Plant — Habit  of  Growth . 2  Illustrations .  .300 


Hotes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 


Grain  has  ripened  and  has  been  gathered  hy 
the  careful  husbandman,  seeds  of  wild  plants 
neglected  by  man,  are  matured  and  being  scat¬ 
tered,  ready  to  be  covered  with  faUing  leaves, 
or  already  hidden  in  crevices  of  the  soil,  from 
which  new  life  will  awaken  at  the  touch  of 
Spring ;  insects  have  taken  their  winter-form  ; 
the  birds  are  hastening  to  more  genial  climates, 
and  every  thing  warns  the  provident  farmer  to 
finish  what  yet  remains  under  his  hand.  It  is 
not  too  late  to  save  much  vexatious  labor  next 
year,  hy  cleaning  np  hedge  rows,  and  clumps 
of  weeds,  which  should  be  burned  to  destroy 
the  ripened  seeds.  If  crops  are  all  housed, 
draining  now  where  needed  may  give  a  week’s 
start  in  the  season  of  plowing. — The  present 
prices  of  grain  may  continue,  but  if  gold  comes 
down  as  it  should,  and  ultimately  must,  those 
who  have  threshed  and  marketed  their  grain 
early,  will  have  most  satisfactory  returns. — 
Thanksgiving  is  but  few  weeks  distant,  and  the 
best  fattened  poultry  will  bring  top  prices.  Let 
our  readers  take  the  hint,  and  have  their  tur¬ 
keys,  chickens,  geese  and  ducks  ready.  In  fine 
“  What  thy  hand  fincleth  to  do,  do  it  with  thy 
might,”  for  the  chilling  storms  will  soon  herald 
the  approach  of  Winter. 

Agricultural  Reading.— days  are  now 
shortening  and  the  nights  lengthening.  If  a 
farmer  is  diligent  and  ambitious,  lie  can  find 
at  least  a  few  hours  daily,  to  read. 

AnirmU. — Feed  fattening  animals  well  this 
month,  as  they  will  fatten  much  faster  before 
cold  weather  comes  on.  Store  animals  of  all 
kinds  also  need  particular  attention,  feed  them 
well  and  protect  them  from  storms. 

Barns. — See  that  no  corner,  or  portion  of  the 
foundation  rests  on  the  ground,  or  is  exposed  to 
wet  that  will  shortly  cause  decay.  Sometimes 
a  projecting  corner  stone  will  conduct  rain  in¬ 
wards  against  the  sill,  and  rot  it  in  a  few  years. 

Beans. — Read  about  beans  in  the  calendar  for 


summon  all  hands  to  the  carrot  patch  and  pull 
up  every  weed,  and  thin  them  where  they 
stand  too  thick.  Carrots  will  grow  rapidly  this 
month,  if  the  soil  is  loosened  and  weeds  pulled. 

Cows. — Milch  cows  will  very  likely  need  a 
little  extra  feed,  or  their  full  flow  of  milk  may 
not  he  maintained.  Let  them  have  the  benefit 
of  the  best  pastures,  when  there  is  any  choice. 
If  fed  four  quarts  of  wheat  bran  or  corn  meal 
daily,  or  two  quarts  of  the  two  mixed,  the 
quantity  of  milk  will  be  increased. 

Corn. — Cut  up  the  stalks  at  the  roots,  before 
dead  ripe;  but  before  cutting  go  tlirough  the 
field  and  select  ears  for  seed,  tying  a  red  string 
around  those  ears  that  ripen  first.  If  you  desire 
.to  procure  seed  of  a  neighbor,  now  is  the  best 
time  to  do  it.  Seed  corn  should  never  be  set  in 
large  stocks,  nor  put  in  cribs  with  other  ears. 
As  soon  as  fit  to  husk,  braid  it  by  the  husks 
in  long  strings,  and  suspend  with  wire,  so  that 
mice  and  red  squirrels  can  not  reach  it. 

Draining. — Make  as  much  under-drain  this 
month  as  practicable.  (See  article  on  Draining 
with  Planks  on  page  308.) 

Eave-TrotigJis. — Put  up  eave-troughs  on  every 
shed  and  building  where  there  are  none,  and  see 
that  leaves  and  sediment  do  not  obstruct  them. 

Fences. — Repair  poor,  and  low  portions 
around  grain  fields,  as  animals — even  when  not 
unruly — are  often  tempted  to  get  over  a  poor 
fence,  if  they  see  better  feed  on  the  other  side 

Fallows. — Keep  scarifiers  moving  on  fallow 
ground  to  prevent  weeds  going  to  seed. 

Orain. — If  tliresliing  is  to  be  done  before 
winter,  liave  the  grain  in  readiness  to  take  ad¬ 
vantage  of  any  temporary  advance  in  prices. 
A  few  hours’  labor  in  putting  grain  through  the 
fanning  mill  a  second  time,  will  sometimes  in¬ 
crease  its  value  3  or  4  cents  per  bushel. 

Oranaries. — Give  tliem  a  thorough  cleaning 
before  new  grain  is  put  into  them. 

Gypsum  may  be  sowed  in .  the  early  part  of 
this  month  on  winter  grain,  or  young  grass. 


INDEX  TO  “  BASKET,”  OB  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


Advertisements.  Note. .  .304 
Ag’l  Colleges  in  South.. 303 

Agr’l  Depnitment  . 303 

Bees,  Prolific  Queen... 302 

Blackberry  Vines . 301 

Bone  Cliarcoal . 302 

Box  Substitute . 303 

Buckwheat  Mulch . 302 

Bulb  Catalogues . 303 

Bushel,  Contents  of . 303 

Cabbage,  Large  . 303 

Chicken,  Hrecocious. .  .302 

Ciller,  Good . . . 304 

Columbine  Seeds  Fotson303 

Corn,  Tall  . ...303 

Currant  Worms . 303 

Dahlia  Seed,  Sowing _ 303 

Death.  W.  J,  Hooker. .  .303 

Draining  Ciay  Soil . 302 

Feed,  Mixing  Cut . 302 

Flow'er  Seed,  Prize.  ....303 
Eucalyptus  resinifera. ..303 
Fruit  House,  Detroit. .  .303 


Grapes,  Fine  Delaware, 302 

Grapes,  Preserving . 302 

Heaves,  Remedy  for.  ...302 
Hellebore,  White,  Black. 303 


Hollyhocks,  Keeping.. .  .303 
Hog  Disease  in  Virginia.309 

Honey  Humbug.. . 304 

Humbug,  New . .  303 

III.  State  Fair . ....304 

Kosmos,  Humbug . 301 

Lard&Tobacco  on  Trees302 

Lilies,  20,000.... . ..303 

Live  Stock  Markets . 304 

N.  E.  Ag’l  Fair . 304 

N.  E.  Wool  Growers. .  ..304 

N.  Y.  State  Fair . .304 

O.  Judd  &  Co . 301 

Osage  Orange  Seed . 303 

Poultry  Re|)orts . 302 

Premium,  Note . 304 

Professor  Tucker. . . . .  ..303 

Radish  Culture . ..303 

Sec’s  Ag’l  Societies...... 303 

isod,  Renovating  Barren.302 

Soot  as  Manure . . .  .302 

Sorghum.  Early  Kind. .  .303 
Stocks,  Wild  Cherry. ..  .302 
Tree  Digger,  Harkness’.302 
Verbenas,  Seedling  ....  .303 

Veterinary  College...... 302 

Wine  Making . .  304 


last  month,  and  gather  all  that  may  yet  re¬ 
main  in  the  field  ■without  delay. 

Beets. — Pull  up  all  small  ones  where  they 
stand  nearer  than  six  inches  from  center  to 
center.  They  are  excellent  food  either  boiled, 
or  pickled,  and  are  good  for  milch  cows. 

Butter. — Now  is  the  best  time  to  pack  butter 
for  next  winter.  See  that  jars,  or  tubs  are 
thoroughly  cleansed.  A  spoonful  of  clean, 
white  sugar  to  a  pound  of  butter,  put  in  at  the 
last  working,  will  improve  the  quality  even  of 
good  butter,  and  cause  it  to  bring  a  higher  price. 

Calves  and  Colts. — Give  colts  and  calvss  good 
feed,  access  to  salt  and  pure  water  daily,  and  a 
shed  during  cold  storms.  It  is  ruinous  policy 
to  allow  young  animals  to  grow  poor  in  autumn. 

Ca/rrots, — When  a  leisure  hour  is  available, 


May  Stacies. — See  that  every  stack  turns  the 
rain  well.  If  they  need  re-topping,  procure 
some  long  straw,  if  possible,  to  cover  the  toj). 
(Read  about  topping  off  stacks  in  Sept,  number.) 

Horses. — Let  working  horses  be  stabled  dar¬ 
ing  cold  and  stormy  nights.  They  will  not  eat 
grass  all  night.  When  they  work  all  day,  turn 
them  to  grass  two  hours  at  night,  and  early  in 
the  morning,  and  they  will  do  better,  and  not 
destroy  half  as  much  grass  with  their  feet. 
One  cold  and  stormy  night  in  October  ivill  in¬ 
jure  a  tender  horse  more  than  a  month’s  woi’k. 

Hogs. — Feed  well  ivith  cooked  meal  and  fruit, 
or  vegetables.  Let  fattening  swine  and  brood 
sows  have  access,  at  all  times,  to  clean  water, 
dry  apartments,  and  a  small  plot  of  clean  and 
dry  ground.  Swine  are  naturally  much  neatei 
in  their  habits  than  horses  and  neat  cattle. 


Q98 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[OCTOBEH, 


>  -  ""  -  ---  - 

Implements.— lla.\e.  a  place  for  every  tool  and 
implement,  and  let  every  laborer  understand  that 
bis  day’s  work  is  not  done,  till  bis  tools  are  well 
cleaned  and  put  in  the  proper  place  under  sbelter. 
Rust  often  wears  out  more  tools  than  work  does. 

Ice  Hou-ies. — A  small  ice  house  may  be  made  for 
a  few  dollars,  in  one  corner  of  a  large  cellar.  A 
double  wall  filled  with  saw  dust,  dry  tan  bark,  or 
dry  straw,  well  packed  in,  is  essential.  If  the  cel¬ 
lar  is  damp,  better  make  the  ice  bouse  in  some  out¬ 
building  above  ground,  in  a  dry  place. 

India7i  Cor?*.— Husk  the  ears  and  secure  the  stalks 
for  fodder  as  soon  as  possible,  after  the  grain  is 
well  cured.  Let  nothing  be  wasted. 

Manure. — Save  all  manure  around  stables  and 
piggeries.  Horse  dung,  as  well  as  droppings  of 
swine,  beats  and  becomes  “  lire-fanged  ”  in  a  few 
days,  unless  it  is  forked  over  and  spread  out,  and 
mingled  with  muck,  or  kept  damp  by  applying 
water  or  liquid  manure  under  cover. 

Mustard. — Now  is  the  time  to  commence  the  ex¬ 
termination  of  wild  mustard.  Read  the  details 
about  Mustard  or  Charlock  on  another  page. 

i/eadojcs.— Top-dress  this  mouth  with  any  kind 
of  fertilizing  material.  It  is  better  to  harrow  in 
bone  dust,  guano,  or  home  made  poudrette. 

Flowing. — Fall  plowing  heavy  soils,  and  any  kind 
of  soil,  where  there  are  many  weeds,  may  be  done 
at  any  period  before  winter.  Where  there  are  Can¬ 
ada  thistles,  Ox-eye  Daisies,  or  Quack  grass,  plow 
deep  with  narrow  furrows.  Always  keep  a  plow  in 
good  condition,  to  work  well. 

PotatoM.— Exposure  to  air,  sun-light,  and  too 
much  heat  will  soon  destroy  the  excellence  of  the 
best  potatoes.  If  put  in  a  dark  place,  they  will 
usually  keep  better  than  in  a  light  one. 

PomW?'?/.— Feed  well  while  the  warm  weather  con¬ 
tinues,  as  they  will  fatten  much  faster  and  eat 
less  grain  than  wlien  it  becomes  cold. 

Pumpkins. — As  soon  as  the  vines  are  done  grow¬ 
ing,  and  before  hard  frosts,  gather  them  beneath 
open  sheds,  or  in  heaps,  where  they  may  be  covered 
with  boards.  Feed  the  green  and  half-ripe  ones 
first.  Store  the  best  ones  in  a  dry,  cool  place  for 
winter.  Never  break  off  the  stems,  or  they  soon 
begin  to  decay.  Save  the  seed  of  none  but  the  best. 

Rije. — In  many  places  it  is  not  too  late  to  sow 
this  grain,  where  the  ground  is  not  wet.  If  the 
soil  is  apt  to  heave  in  winter,  better  not  put  in 
winter  rye,  but  prepare  for  spring  rye. 

Sheep. — In  some  parts  of  the  country,  bucks  and 
ewes  may  be  turned  together  in  October.  Where 
the  sirring  is  always  backward,  and  there  are  cold 
storms  of  rain  and  snow,  better  keep  them  separate 
a  month  longer.  The  period  of  gestation  with 
ewes  is  about  five  months.  It  is  not  good  policy 
to  have  lambs  dropped  until  there  is  some  grass 
and  warm,  settled  weather.  Make  necessary  pre¬ 
paration  for  improvements  in  sheep  next  season. 

Sorghum. — Secure  before  injured  by  hard  frost. 
If  there  are  indications  of  it  before  the  seed  has 
ripened,  a  few  of  the  best  hills  may  be  covered 
with  blankets,  in  order  to  secure  good  seed.  Cut 
off  the  seed  end,  and  strip  off  the  leaves,  and  make 
the  juice  into  syrup  as  soon  as  practicable.  When 
the  stalks  become  mouldy,  it  is  liable  to  injure  the 
flavor  of  the  syrup,  and  make  it  dark  colored. 

Swine. — Look  up  a  good  brood  sow  for  raising 
pigs  next  year.  Better  p.ay  $50  for  a  good  breeder 
than  $30  for  a  sow  that  will  not  bear  over  3  or  5 
pigs.  Prolificness  is  one  of  the  excellences  of  a 
breeding  sow.  Better  fatten  every  hog  now  on 
hand,  if  the  breed  is  not  first-rate,  and  begin 
anew  with  a  breed  that  will  fatten  more  readily. 

Timber. — There  is  no  better  month  in  all  tlie  year 
than  October  to  cut  timber,  to  insure  durability, 
especially  for  fences  of  all  kinds,  and  posts.  Rails 
and  stakes,  cut  and  split  tills  mouth,  will  last  longer 
than  if  cut  and  split  in  winter,  spring,  or  summer. 
The  wood  is  well  matured,  and  the  timber  becomes 
thoroughly  seasoned  before  hot  weather,  which 
often  cracks  the  surface,  allowing  rain  to  enter. 

Weeds. — Mowing,  pulling,  plowing  and  hoeing 
weeds  will  be  in  order  every  leisure  hour  till 


winter.  Gather  them  all  in  large  heaps  when  they 
are  wet,  so  that  the  seed  will  not  shell  out.  Better 
devote  one  day  this  fall  to  pulling  rag  weed,  wild 
mustard,  and  other  weeds  in  corn-fields  than 
to  spend  a  week  next  season  exterminating  those 
that  spring  from  the  seed  now  growing.  It  is  very 
common  for  weeds  to  bring  forth  ten  thousand 
fold.  If  thrown  in  a  large  pile  before  the  seed  be¬ 
comes  hard,  all  will  decay  and  make  good  manure. 


Work  in  iSie  OrcSiard  and  Nursery. 

Fortunate  is  he  who  has  an  abundance  of  fruit, 
for  he  will  get  good  returns.  Owing  to  the  gener¬ 
al  scarcity,  more  than  usual  care  should  be  taken 
with  what  there  is.  Some  hints  are  given  on  page 
305,  which,  if  followed,  will  much  facilitate  the 
careful  gathering  of  fruit.  It  is  a  mistake  to  pick 
late  keeping  varieties  too  soon  ;  they  should  be  left 
on  as  Icmg  as  they  continue  to  develop  from  nour¬ 
ishment  supplied  by  the  tree.  When  gathered,  as¬ 
sort  at  once  into  barrels ;  do  not  head  up  until 
the  sweating  process  is  over,  but  keep  in  a  cool, 
shady  place ;  put  in  the  cellar  at  the  approach  of 
cold  weather.  When  the  heads  are  put  in  place,  ap¬ 
ples  should  be  so  pressed  th.at  they  will  not  shake 
by  the  jolting  of  transportation. 

As  far  as  we  have  observed,  the  season  is  favora¬ 
ble  to  the  nurseryman  and  the  purchaser  of  trees, 
the  wood  being  ripened  unusually  early,  many 
sorts  have  already  (the  middle  of  September,) 
shed  their  foliage.  This  early  ripening  prolongs 
the  season  of  the  nurseryman,  and  gives  him  more 
time  to  fill  his  orders,  and  it  is  very  advantageous 
to  the  planter,  as  trees  set  early  become  established 
and  are  better  able  to  endure  the  winter.  Let  all 
who  intend  to  plant,  do  it  as  early  as  the  trees  can 
he  had,  observing  the  suggestions  as  to  drainage, 
deep  plowing,  and  manuring,  heretofore  given. 

Cider. — The  unusually  early  ripening  of  the  fruit 
may  render  it  necessary  to  make  cider  this  mouth. 
Hints  on  the  subject  will  be  found  in  the  “Basket.” 

Frying  Fruits. — It  is  likely  that  dried  fruit  will 
bring  better  prices  than  usual,  aud  nothing  should 
be  allowed  to  go  to  waste  that  can  be  preserved 
in  this  manner.  Dry  rapidly,  aud  keep  clean. 

Insects. — After  the  leaves  have  fallen,  clusters  of 
eggs  and  cocoons  may  be  discovered  aud  removed. 
Examine  trees  received  from  the  nurseries,  near  the 
root  aud  if  any  borer  holes  are  found,  crush  the  in¬ 
sects  with  a  wire,  and  if  the  bark  has  the  scale  in¬ 
sect  upon  it,  wash  it  with  strong  soft  soap  water, 
or  better,  discard  the  tree  altogether. 

Labels. — Do  not  trust  to  labels  alone,  but  have  a 
map  or  record  of  the  position  of  every  tree;  still 
labels  are  a  great  convenience,  especially  upon 
young  trees,  before  one  gets  sufficiently  acquainted 
with  them  to  tell  the  variety  at  sight.  See  that 
all  are  plain,  and  be  sure  that  the  wires  by  which 
they  are  suspended  are  sufficiently  loose. 

Majiure. — It  is  unreasonable  to  expect  to  be  able 
to  carry  off  a  crop  year  after  year  without  return¬ 
ing  something  fo  the  land.  Manuring  be.aring 
trees  pays,  not  only  in  larger  crops  of  fruit,  but  in 
the  finer  development  of  the  individual  specimens. 
The  best  method  of  applying  manure  is  given  in 
the  article  “Is  Pear  Culture  Profitable?”  on  p.  314. 

Shade  Trees.— These,  except  evergreens,  may  be 
planted  as  soon  as  the  leaves  drop.  The  more  care¬ 
fully  it  is  done,  the  better  will  be  the  future  growth. 


Kitchen  Garden. — Harvesting  the  ma¬ 
turing  crops  and  preparing  for  spring  work  will 
keep  the  gardener  fully  employed  until  cold  weath¬ 
er.  This  is  a  good  month  in  which  to  make  drains, 
for  which  the  article  on  page  308,  will  give  some 
useful  hints.  If  the  soil  be  stiff,  it  may  be  greatly 
ameliorated  by  throwing  it  up  in  ridges  and  allow¬ 
ing  them  to  remain  all  winter.  The  rules  of  neat¬ 
ness  and  order  are  often  relaxed  at  this  season,  and 
the  garden  presents  an  unsightly  accumulation  of 
rubbish.  This  should  never  be  allowed. 

Artichokes. — Earth  up  around  them  and  throw 
over  a  little  litter,  to  keep  out  hard  frost. 

Asparagus, — New  beds  may  be  made,  setting  two 


year  old  plants  as  directed  in  the  Calendar  for 
March,  after  which  cover  the  bed  with  litter.  Cut 
the  tops  from  established  beds  and  burn  them.  Give 
the  bed  a  thick  covering  of  coarse  stable  manure. 

Beans. — Pick  the  late  string  beans  and  salt  them. 
Shell  and  dry  Limas  before  they  are  cut  off  by  frost. 
If  more  ripen  than  are  wanted  for  seed,  try  them 
in  winter  as  baked  beans,  they  are  good. 

Beets. — Pull  in  time,  as  when  frosted,  their  sweet¬ 
ness  is  impaired.  Those  put  in  the  cellar  may  be 
kept  from  wilting  by  covering  with  sand  or  earth. 

Cabbages. — The  late  kinds  may  safely  be  left  out 
until  hard  frosts.  When  put  away  for  the  winter, 
remove  loose  outside  leaves,  set  the  cabbages  in  a 
trench  wide  enough  for  3  rows,  packed  closely  to¬ 
gether,  and  cover  with  6  or  8  inches  of  earth.  Dig 
a  drain  around  to  carry  off  the  water,  and  when  the 
earth  over  the  cabbages  is  frozen,  cover  it  with  4 
or  5  inches  of  litter.  Another  way  is  to  dig  or 
plow  a  shallow  trench,  over  which  two  rails  are 
placed  lengthwise;  set  the  cabbages,  head  down,^ 
on  the  rails,  put  on  some  straw,  and  coverthe  whole' 
carefully  with  earth.  If  the  cabbages  are  wanted 
for  use  every  few  days,  a  supply  may  be  put  in  a 
cool  cellar,  or  re-planted  closely  in  a  dry  place,  and 
covered  with  straw  and  a  roof  of  boards.  To 
winter  young  pl.ants  in  cold  frames,  see  page  311. 

Caidijlowers. — Store  in  the  cellar  before  frost. 
Those  which  have  not  formed  heads  will  usually  do 
BO  if  set  out  in  a  cellar  or  cold  pit.  Treat  plants 
for  early  spring  crops  as  directed  above  for  cabbage. 

Carrots. — Harvest  and  preserve  as  directed  for 
beets.  The  tops  will  be  much  relished  by  cattle. 

Celery. — Continue  to  earth  up  that  grown  in 
trenches,  taking  care  that  no  earth  enter  the  center 
of  the  plant.  That  grown  in  flat  culture  should 
be  “handled”  to  bring  the  stems  to  an  upright 
position,  if  not  already  done,  and  at  the  end  of  the 
month  commence  digging  and  putting  in  trenches 
according  to  directions  given  in  J uly,  on  page  218. 

Cold  Frames. — Prepare  for  the  reception  of  cab¬ 
bages,  cauliflowers,  etc.  See  page  314 

Cucumbers. — Gather  for  pickles  as  long  as  the  vines 
continue  to  yield,  and  salt  as  heretofore  directed. 

Endive. — Take  up  with  a  ball  of  earth,  and  set 
closely  together  in  the  cellar  for  winter  use. 

Hot  Beds. — When  these  are  made  in  the  spring  it 
is  often  difficnlt  to  find  soil  to  use  in  them.  Much 
annoyance  will  be  saved  if  sufficient  rich  earth  be 
secured  now  aud  placed  under  a  shed,  or  covered 
with  boards,  near  where  it  will  be  needed. 

Lettuce. — Plants  may  be  set  in  a  cold  frame  as  di¬ 
rected  for  cabbage,  or  in  very  mild  localities  they 
W'ill  winter  with  a  light  covering  of  straw. 

Onions. — Any  late  sown  plants  for  wintering 
over,  will  need  an  inch  or  so  of  straw  upon  them. 

Parsnips. — Dig  what  will  be  needed  for  use  dur¬ 
ing  the  time  the  ground  is  frozen,  and  put  them  in 
the  cellar  and  cover  with  sand  to  prevent  wilting, 
and  leave^the  rest  in  the  ground. 

Rhubarb. — Make  new  beds  in  highly  manured 
soil,  setting  the  plants  3  or  4  feet  apart  e.ach  way, 
any  time  before  the  ground  is  frozen.  Plants  are 
obtained  by  dividing  old  roots  with  a  spade,  so  as 
to  separate  the  buds  with  a  portion  of  root  attached. 
Old  beds  will  need  a  liberal  covering  of  manure. 

Salsify. — Dig  a  part  for  use  from  time  to  time, 
and  leave  the  rest  as  directed  for  parsneps. 

Spinach. — Keep  out  weeds  and  cultivate  tmtil 
hard  frosts,  then  lightly  cover  over  with  litter. 

Squashes. — Be  careful  not  to  allow  them  to  be¬ 
come  frosted.  House  where  they  will  not  freeze 
or  be  subject  to  great  changes  of  temperature. 
Use  the  greenest  Hubbards  first,  as  they  will  not 
keep,  but  are  good  long  before  they  are  ripe. 

Sweet  Potatoes. — Harvest  as  soon  as  the  tops  are 
touched  by  frost.  Dig  with  great  care  on  a  warm 
day,  aud  let  them  dry  in  the  sun  before  storing 
them.  The  great  secret  in  keeping  them,  is  to 
handle  carefully’,  and  put  them  in  a  warm  room, 
the  temperature  of  which  is  uniform.  They  do 
well  packed  in  barrels  with  cut  straw  between  them. 

Tomatoes. — The  season  may  be  prolonged  by 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RIOULTURIST, 


Q99 


keeping  the  early  frosts  from  some  of  the  most 
fruitful  plants,  by  means  of  some  kind  of  covering. 
Preserve  a  supply  for  winter  in  jars  or  bottles. 

Trenchmg. — ^There  are  usually  many  days  this 
month  in  which  the  ground  can  be  profitably  pre¬ 
pared  for  spring,  by  manuring  and  trenching. 

Winter  Cherries. — Gather  as  directed  last  month. 


Fruit  eSarden. — All  hardy  shrubs  and 
trees  may  be  planted  as  soon  as  the  wood  is  ma¬ 
ture,  and  the  leaves  begin  to  fall.  The  earlier  this 
is  done,  the  better,  in  order  that  the  plants  may 
get  somewhat  established  before  winter. 

Blackberries. — All  the  varieties  fruit  much  better 
if  the  canes  are  laid  down  and  covered  with  a  lit¬ 
tle  earth.  In  making  a  new  planting,  give  plenty 
of  room  ;  six  feet  apart  each  way,  or  in  rows  8  feet 
apart,  with  the  plants  4  feet  distant.  The  soil 
should  be  well  enriched  with  good  compost,  and 
have  a  plenty  of  leaf  mould 'or  muck  worked  in. 

Currants  and  Gooseberries. — Make  cuttings  as  di¬ 
rected  last  month  on  page  282,  where  will  also  be 
found  a  description  of  the  best  varieties  of  euiTants. 
Transplant  rooted  cuttings  or  get  plants  from  the 
nursery,  setting  them  5  feet  apart  each  way. 

Dwarf  Fruits. — Plant  dwarf  apples  and  pears  in 
autumn,  but  leave  the  stone  fruits  until  spring. 

Grapes. — Plant  vines  when  the  leaves  have  follen. 
Pick  as  they  ripen  ;  those  intended  for  wine-making 
or  for  keeping,  need  to  be  thoroughly  ripe.  Put  in 
boxes  as  described  last  month,  and  keep  in  a  uni¬ 
formly  cool  place,  where  they  will  not  freeze. 

ikars. — Allow  the  winter  sorts  to  hang  until  frost, 
and  treat  as  directed  for  apples  under  Orchard. 

Strawberries. — New  beds  may  still  be  made,  but 
the  earlier  the  better.  Sufficient  directions  for 
planting  are  given  last  month  on  page  284.  The 
covering  should  not  be  done  until  late,  when  the 
ground  is  about  to  freeze,  but  it  is  well  to  accumu¬ 
late  a  supply  of  covering  material.  Leaves  or 
straw  are  generally  used.  At  the  West,  they 
use  cornstalks,  laid  lengthwise  of  the  rows  with 
good  success.  An  inch  of  covering  is  sufficient. 

Flower  Garden  and  l^awii. — The 
glorious  days  of  October  are  far  more  suitable  for 
making  improvements  in  the  grounds,  or  laying 
out  new  ones,  than  the  wet  and  uncertain  weath¬ 
er  of  spring.  Leveling,  road-making,  preparing 
lawns,  and  trenching  borders  can  be  advantageously 
done  at  this  time.  Such  work,  together  with  plant¬ 
ing  and  taking  care  of  tender  plants,  will  give  the 
gardener  full  occupation. 

Annuals. — The  hardy  kinds,  such  as  Whitlavia, 
Ah’ssum,  Gilias,  Larkspurs,  Nemophilas,  and  those 
that  are  freely  self  sown  may  be  sown  now  and 
will  give  stronger  plants  and  an  earlier  bloom 
than  if  kept  out  of  the  ground  until  spring. 

Bedding  Plants. — Make  cuttings  if  not  already 
done,  and  take  up  such  old  plants  as  it  is  desired 
to  keep  over  winter.  Fuchsias,  Lantanas,  etc.,  do 
well  in  a  cellar,  if  kept  rather  dry. 

Bidbs. — Plant  early,  sufficient  directions  are  given 
for  successful  management  on  page  316. 

Cht'ysanihemums. — There  should  always  be  an 
abundance  of  these,  as  they  make  the  garden  gay 
when  most  other  flowers  are  gone.  Pot  some  for 
in-door  blooming,  if  not  already  done.  Keep  tied 
up  to  stakes,  to  prevent  injury  from  winds. 

Dahlias. — Keep  well  tied  up,  and  see  that  all  are 
properly  labelled,  while  they  arc  yet  in  flower  and 
can  be  identified.  It  often  happens  that  we  have  a 
week  or  more  of  fine  weather  after  the  first  frost, 
and  if  one  takes  the  trouble  to  protect  the  plants 
from  the  first  frosts  by  some  light  covering,  the 
time  of  blooming  maybe  much  prolonged.  When 
the  tops  are  killed,  allow  the  plants  to  remain  a 
week  or  more  in  the  ground  to  ripen. 

Fratnes  and  Fits. — Have  them  ready  to  receive 
the  plants.  See  article  on  this  eubjeet  on  page  314. 

Gladioluses. — Cnt  away  the  stems  where  the  flow¬ 


ers  fade,  but  leave  the  bulbs  in  the  ground  until 
there  is  danger  of  their  being  injured  by  freezing. 

Hedges. — Deciduous  plants  may  be  set  for  hedges 
as  soon  as  the  leaves  fall. 

Lawns. — One  great  point  in  making  a  la'wn  is  to 
thoroughly  prepare  the  soil.  It  should  be  trenched, 
or  if  this  is  impracticable,  thoroughly  plowed.  It 
should  then  be  carefully  leveled  and  graded.  Sow 
the  seed,  either  Blue-grass  or  Rye-grass,  very 
thickly,  putting  a  little  winter  rye  with  it,  and  roll. 
Give  another  rolling  just  before  the  ground  freezes. 
Bad  places  in  lawns  may  be  improved  by  turfing. 

Fbrenniah. — Transplant  those  from  seed  this 
spring,  to  the  places  where  they  are  to  flower. 
Clumps  of  established  plants  need  to  be  taken  up, 
divided  and  re-set  about  once  in  every  three  years. 

Pinks  and  Carnations. — Take  up  and  pot  the  root¬ 
ed  layers.  Set  them  in  a  cold  frame  or  dry  cellar. 

Pansies  and  Violets. — These  can  be  had  in  spring, 
early  and  in  abundance,  by  setting  the  plants  in  a 
cold  frame.  Give  air  freely  in  mild  ■weather,  and 
in  severe,  cover  the  glass  with  a  mat  or  shutters. 

Stocks  and  Wall-fiowers. — Pot  and  remove  them 
to  the  green-house  or  cold  pit. 

Transplanting. — All  hardy  trees  and  shrubs  ex¬ 
cepting  evergreens  do  much  better  if  transplanted 
early  this  month,  than  they  will  in  spring.  Give 
these  the  same  care  in  planting  and  pruning  as  is 
given  to  fruit  trees.  If  any  native  shrubs  are  to  be 
brought  into  the  grounds,  look  after  them  before 
tile  lea%'es  fall,  and  carefully  mark  them. 

Greesi  nitid  Hot  Hou§e§. — All  but  the 
very  hardy  plants  should  be  in-doors,  but  Azaleas, 
Camellias  and  other  robust  things  may  stay  out 
until  there  is  danger  of  frost.  All  the  pots  ought 
to  be  cleaned  when  taken  in,  and  the  surface  soil 
removed  and  replaced  with  fresh.  Prune,  train  and 
stake  the  plants  as  may  be  needed,  to  have  all  in 
perfectly  neat  order.  Have  everything  in  readiness 
to  give  fire  if  needed.  The  hot  house  will  of  course 
need  fire  heat.  In  the  green-house  give  all  possible 
ventilation,  but  guard  against  sudden  changes. 
Potting  soil  and  pots,  if  not  on  hand,  are  to  be  se¬ 
cured  in  sufficient  quantity  without  further  delay. 

The  fight  with  insects  should  be  opened  at  the 
beginning,  and  no  plants  badly  infested  ought  to 
be  brought  into  the  house  without  first  being 
completely  freed  from  these  troublesome  pests. 

Annuals  for  winter  blooming  are  to  be  sowed, 
and  bulbs  of  various  kinds  to  be  potted.  Keep  the 
bulbs  in  a  dark  warm  place,  as  noted  on  page  316. 
Of  annuals.  Mignonette  is  always  wanted  in  abun¬ 
dance,  as  it  is  prized  in  bouquets  for  its  fragrance. 
Schizanthus,  Sweet  Alyssum,  Phlox  Drummondii 
and  others  will  help  decorate  the  house. 

Roses  for  winter  blooming  are  to  be  well  cut  back. 

Hardy  plants,  which  arc  to  be  forced,  such  as 
Dicentra  spectabilis,  Deutzia  gracilis,  the  Lily  of 
the  Valley,  and  others,  may  be  potted  now. 


Cold  Grapery. — By  closing  the  lo-wer 
sashes  and  ventilating  only  by  the  upper  ones,  the 
temperature  of  the  house  may  be  somewhat  in¬ 
creased,  and  this  will  favor  the  ripening  of  the 
wood.  The  leaves  should  not  be  stripped  from  the 
vines  ;  when  perfectly  ripe  and  they  have  fulfilled 
their  office,  they  will  fall.  In  case  of  sudden  cold 
weather  occurring,  close  up  the  house  entirely. 


Tlie  Apiary  for  Octolier. — Prepared 
by  II.  Quinby,  by  request. — Foul  brood  is  occasional¬ 
ly  found  in  sections  where  it  was  never  before  seen. 
A  few  days  ago  I  received  a  few  combs  containing 
it  from  Iowa,  with  accompanying  questions  as  to 
the  proper  method  of  eradicating  it.  The  writer 
suggested  that  its  appearance  in  that  vicinity  'was 
caused  by  sudden  changes  in  the  weather,  etc.  My 
answer  may  be  of  general  interest.  There  is  but 
little  cause  for  alarm.  If  it  has  been  brought  into 
his  neighborhood  from  some  infected  district,  he 
has  only  to  take  up  all  hives  in  which  it  was  found, 
and  that  will  end  it.  If  it  results  from  some 
peculiar  atmospheric  influence,  past  experience  in¬ 


dicates  that  it  may  not  occur  again  in  n  number  of 
years.  If  it  originates  in  something  gathered  by 
the  bees  from  some  plant,  or  flower  just  intro¬ 
duced,  it  might  prove  more  serious,  as  they  would 
continue  to  gather  it. 

I  would  advise  an  inspection  of  all  hives,  sncli  as 
have  been  wintered,  even  where  the  disease  is  un¬ 
known.  A  timely  arrest  may  prevent  much  loss. 
All  healthy  brood  will  probably  be  hatched  early 
this  month.  Brood  cells,  now  closed,  should  be 
opened  ;  if  the  bee,  while  in  a  larva  state,  is  dark 
colored,  it  is  dead.  A  half-dozen  such  should  con¬ 
demn  the  hive.  The  middle  of  the  day  is  much  the 
best  time  to  inspect  them.  Protect  the  face,  and 
use  smoke  of  rotten  wood,  or  rags,  to  drive  the 
bees  away  from  the  combs  to  be  examined.  By 
perseverance  in  removing  all  affected  stocks  im- 
mediatelj’,  it  is  often,  nearly,  if  not  entirely  eradica¬ 
ted  in  sections  where  it  has  prevailed  for  years.  If 
all  bee  keepers  would  remove  every  diseased  stock 
this  month,  without  allowing  any  of  the  honey  to 
be  taken  into  healthy  ones,  it  is  doubtful  if  it 
would  reappear  in 'several  years. 

See  that  all  stocks  have  a  proper  supply  of  honey 
for  winter;  25  to  80  lbs.  is  sufficient.  If  a  colony 
is  deficient,  feed  to  the  required  standard — not  by 
weighing  what  is  fed — it  may  be  carried  off  by 
other  bees — but  by  weighing  what  is  stored  in  the 
hive.  Feed  at  night,  taking  away  in  the  morning 
what  is  left.  Give  them  all  they  will  take,  until  they 
have  enough.  If  honey  in  the  comb  is  fed,  cut  off 
the  sealing  of  the  cells  ;  set  in  the  top  of  the  hive, 
and  when  robbers  are  excluded,  it  may  remain 
through  the  day.  It  is  better  to  take  up  hives  that 
might  possibly  be  wintered,  than  to  undertake  to 
to  keep  more  than  can  be  put  in  proper  condition. 
The  anxiety  to  keep  as  many  colonies  as  possible, 
makes  bee  keepers  a  great  deal  of  trouble.  It  has 
been  very  reasonably  suggested  that,  if  all  but  good 
stocks  were  taken  np,  another  year  ■would  count  up 
a  greater  number  than  if  all  were  kept. 

When  it  is  decided  to  take  up  a  light  colony,  it 
is  better  economy  to  put  it  away  i\'ith  the  contents, 
after  taking  out  all  the  dead  bees  between  the 
combs,  for  a  swarm  another  year,  than  to  break 
out  the  honey  for  the  table.  Set  right  side  up  in 
some  dry  place,  where  it  will  freeze  thoroughly. 
Stop  out  mice  and  bees,  and  next  season  it  will 
be  just  what  you  want  for  a  very  early,  or  late 
swarm.  An  early  swarm  put  in  such  a  hive  -vvould 
be  likely  to  fill  up,  and  send  out  a  sivarm,  or  if  it 
did  not,  it  would  be  ready  to  store  surplus  much 
sooner.  Combs  to  be  strained,  should  be  broken 
and  laid  on  the  strainer  while  warm,  as  soon  as 
possible  after  the  bees  are  removed.  The  best 
combs  for  the  table  are  near  the  top  and  outside  of 
the  hive.  Those  near  the  bottom  and  middle  are 
tough,  and  contain  more  bee-breacl.  When  broken 
to  strain,  they  should  simply  be  laid  on  the  strainer, 
without  rubbing  or  working  over,  'which  mixes  the 
bee-bread  with  the  honey.  If  the  weather  is  warm, 
it  will  drain  very  clean  through  wire-cloth.  A  few 
particles  of  ■wax  will  rise  to  the  top  after  standing 
a  few  hours,  which  may  be  skimmed  off,  leaving  the 
honey  perfectly  clear.  For  the  process  of  making 
metheglin,  vinegar,  etc.,  see  previous  numbers 
of  the  Agriculturist. 


CatalogMCs,  etc.,  lieccit'ed. — Frost  & 
Co.,  Genesee  Valley  Nurseries,  Rochester,  N.  cata¬ 
logues  fertile  Autumn  of  1865...  .  J.  C.  Plumb,  Lake 
Side  Nursery.  Madison,  Wis.,  Fruit,  Evergreen,  and  vie- 
cidiious  trees  and  shrubs  .....Haines*  Hacker,  Chel¬ 
tenham  (Montgomery  Co.,  Pa.)  Nurseries;  illustrated 
catalogue  of  Nursery  Stock.. ...  .William  Parry,  Pomo¬ 
na  Garden  ;>nd  Nursery.  Cinnaminson,  Durlington  Co., 
N.  J.;  general  assortment  of  small  Fruits,  Peaches,  etc. 
_ _ E.  Williams,  Montclair,  N.  J.,  Small  Fruit  Nurse¬ 
ry;  small  Fruits  in  general,  and  tlie  Kittatinny  Black¬ 
berry  in  particular . Descriptive  list  of  Hardy  Native 

Grape  Vines  ;  by  George  W.  Campbell  Delaware,  Ohio, 
who  claims  to  be  the  original  disseminator  of  the  univer¬ 
sally  popular  Delaware  ..Report  of  the  Proceedings 
of  the  Fruit-Growers’  Society  of  Eastern  Pennsylvania, 

for  1863 — ’64,  and  the  winter  meeting  of  1865  . Eighth 

Annual  Report  of  the  Board  of  Commissioners  of  Cen¬ 
tral  Park,  showing  ■what  has  been  done  the  past  year, 
and  con'emplaled  improveinents  ;  from  Andre-w  H. 
Green.  Esq.  Conipli oiler, 


300 


fOcTOBEU, 


AMERICAN  AORICULTURIST. 


Tw©  Mouths  Free. 

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new  subscriber  for  1866,  received  this  month,  gets  two 


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fast  as  received— ready  for  instant  reference.) 

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but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
such  that  the  premiums  are  in  part  offered.  Premium 
clubs  need  not  all  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  course 
only  one  premium  will  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber. 


The  extra  copy,  usually  offered  to  clubs  of  10  or  §0, 
will  not  be  furnished  when  a  premium  is  given. 


Table  of  Fremiiims  and  Terms, 

For  Volume  25.  gg- 

Open  to  all— No  Competition. 

ai 

Names  of  Premium  Articles.  1 _ 

t_QooD  Books—*  See  terms  below . 

2— Garden  Seeds  for  a  Family  (40  kinds)... $5  00 
3_Flowei'  Seeds  for  a  Family  (100  kinds)..  $5  00 

4r— Nursery  Stock  (any  Kinds  desired) . $20  00 

5— Iona  Grape  Vines  (la  of  No.  1)  ...  ...$18  00 

0— Concord  Gr.ape  Vines  (100  of  No.  1)  ..$12  00 

7—  Strawberry  Plants  (100  of  good  Kinds)  .$5  00 

8- ,Japan  Lilies  (1-.J  Bulbs) . $6  00 

9_Downing’3  Landscape  Gardening . $G  50 

10— American  Cyclopedia  . 99 

jl—jlitchell’s  New  General  Atlas . $10  00 

13— Worcester’s  Great  Illustrat’d  Dictionary$12  00 
13— Any  back  Volume  Ag'n'cwttot'fst,)  -s  $125 
J4r— Any  Two  back  Volumes  do 

15—  Any  Tliree  do 

16—  Aliy  Four  do 

17—  Any  Five  do 
J8— Any  Six  do 
19— Any  seven  do 
30— Any  Eight  do 


31— Vols.  XVI  to  XXIV 


do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 


50 
5  25 
.7  00 
eg  $3  75 
$10  50 
“  .  $12  25 
S  $14  00 

_  ,  !>;  $15  75 

SS— Stump  Speech- Steel  Plate  Colored — $10  00 

33—  The  County  Election  do  do . $10  00 

34 —  Halt  in  the  Woods  do  do. ....  $10  00 

3.5—  .Morton’s  best  No.  5  Gold  Pen,  Silver  Case$4  50 

30— Case  of  Drawing  Instruments.., .  $8  00 

37—  Lady's  Rosewood  Writing  Desk . $12  00 

38—  Gentleman’s  do  do  do . $14  00 

39—  Best  Family Clothes-Wringer . .  ...  f  10  00 

30—  Doty’s  Washing  Machine . $12  00 

31—  Tea'Set  (Best  Silver  Plated). . .....  ■  ■  ■  ■  ■  $59  00 

33—  Sewing  Machine,  (Wheeler  &  AV)lson),.$aD  00 

33_Sewing  Machine  (Wilcox  &  Gihhs) . $5a  00 

34—  Sewing  Machine  for  Tailor  AVork . $60  00 

3.5- Melodoou  (Best  Four  (A^ctave) . .  $6i  00 

36- Melodcon  (Best  live  Octave)  ....... ..$112  00 

37—  Piano,  7-Octave  (Slc-inway  &  Sons).. ..$600  00 
3§_15arometer  (AVoodnilf’s  Mercurial) $10  00 

39—  Barometer  (AVoodrutfs  Mercurial) . $15  00 

40—  Tlie  Aquarius,  or  AVater  Thrower . .$U  00 

41—  Buckeye  Mowing  Machine  No.  2 . $180  00 

43— Allen’s  Patent  Cylinder  Plow . $20  50 


■gr 


S3 


35 

35 

100 

92 

65 

35 

33 

40 

338 

60 

65 

20 

26 

32 

38 

44 
50 

57 

64 
72 
60 
60 
60 
82 

45 

65 
70 

58 
65 

240 

270 

270 

290 

SOO 

450 

1500 

60 

80 

65 

480 

100 


^^iVo  charge  is  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  the 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Premiums,  1,  S,  3,  7,  8, 
and  13  to  26,  are  delivered  to  any  part  of  the  United 
States  and  Territories,  free  of  all  charges.  The  other 
articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  after  leaving 
the  manufactory  of  each,  m"  Every  article  offered  is 
new  and'  of  the  very  best  manufacture. 

Description  of  tbe  Preminms. 

N.  B.— A  PULL  DeSCEXPTIVB  SHEET,  DKSOBIBINO 
EACH  OF  THE  PREArlU.AI  ARTICLES,  WITH  FULL  PARTICULARS, 
WILL  BE  SENT  TO  ANA.''  ONE  APPLYINO.  WS  HAVE  ONLY 
ROOAI  HERE  FOR  THE  FOLLOWING  GENER.AL  REIIARKS  : 

*  Premium  X.—Oood  Looks.— Any  person  sending  a 
club  of  25  or  more  subscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  list 
on  page  327,  to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  each  subscriber 
sent  at  ,$1 :  or  to  the  amount  of  GO  cents  for  each  name  at  $1  50. 
This  offer  extends  only  to  clubs  of  25  or  more  names. 
The  Book's  will  be  sent  by  mail  or  express,  prepaid  by  us.— 
This  is  a  good  opportunity  for  tlie  farmers  of  a  nei,gbbor- 
hood  to  unite  their  efforts  and  get  up  an  Agricultural  Li¬ 
brary  for  general  use.  Several  Farmers’  Clubs  have  done  so. 

Premium  3.— A  complete  assortment  of  Kitchen  Gar¬ 
den  Seeds,  for  one  or  more  families,  containing  the  most  ap¬ 
proved  and  choice  sorts,  in  quantities  to  suit  a  Family  Gar¬ 
den.  No.  2  and  3,  are  put  up  by  the  well-known  and  reliable 
house  of  J.  AI.  Thorburn  &  Co.  For  kind  and  amount,  see 
our  Descriptive  Sheet.  Premiums  1  to  8,  may  bo  divided 
among  themselves  by  a  club,  If  they  so  choose. 

No.  3.— A  choice  collection  of  fine  and  reliable  Flower 
Seeds,  of  100  kinds— in  full  market  size  parcels.  See  No.  2. 

No.  4:.— Twenty  Dollars -worth  of  Fruit  Trees,  or  any  other 
kind  of  Nursery  Stock  that  may  be  desired,  to  bo  selected 
by  the  recipient,  from  the  Catalogues  of  the  well-known  ex¬ 
tensive,  reliable  c-stablislimonts  of  either  Parsons  &  Co., 
Flushing,  N.  T.,  or  F.  K.  Phoenix,  Bloomington,  Ilk,  as  desired. 

No.  5.— One  Dozen  of  the  new  and  promising  Iona  Grape 


iVines.  Only  the  best  No.  1  Vines  will  be  sent,  such  as  are 
not  sold  for  less  than  $2.00  each. 

No.  G, — Large,  first  class,  No,  1  Concord  Vines. 

No.  7. — A  selection  of  the  best  kinds  to  be  obtained,  In¬ 
cluding  the  “  Agriculturist,”  if  desired  in  whole  or  in  part, 

No.  8.— A  fine  assortment  of  the  beautiful  Japan  Lilies. 
These  are  adapted  to  autumn  or  spring  planting. 

No.  fi.— Downing's  Landscape  Gardening,  etc,— A  most 
beautiful  volume,  splendidly  bound,  and  finely  Illustrated, 
new  Edition. 

No.  10.— Appleton’s  New  American  Cyclopedia,  amtignif- 
Icent  great  work,  of  16  large  volumes,  containing  condensed 
but  very  full  information  upon  every  topic.  It  is  a  whole  Li¬ 
brary  of  itself,  describing  almost  every  subject,  place,  and 
thing,  including  countries,  cities,  all  men  of  note  who  have 
ever  lived,  etc.,  etc.  Almost  every  farmer  could  afford  to 
sell  an  acre  or  more  of  his  farm  to  purchase  this  work. 

No.  11.— Mitchell’s  Large  Geography,  containing  84  Maps, 
and  plans,  is  of  high  value,  and  may  well  be  in  every  house. 

No.  13.— AVoi'cester’s  Great  Dictionary,  next  to  the  Bible 
and  Cyclopedia,  is  the  most  important  work  for  the  fiimily. 
Tlie  Unabridged  Edition,  Illustrated  with  many  engravings, 
describes  and  pronounces  every  word  in  onr  language. 

Nos.  13  to  31.— AVehave  stereotype  plates  of  the  Agrl‘ 
culturlst,  from  volume  16  to  28,  inclusive,  (and  Dec.  1st,  will 
have  volume  24,)  from  which  we  print  from  lime  to  time  any 
numbers  needed.  Any  of  these  volumes  desired  can  be  fur¬ 
nished  complete  with  index  and  title  pages.  Price  $1,50,  or 
$1.75,  if  sent  by  mail,  as  they  must  be  pre-paid.  Tliese  vol¬ 
umes  are  a  valuable  Agricultural  Library  in  themselves, 
containing  more  varied  information  than  can  be  obtained 
for  twice  the  cost  in  any  books.  If  desired  bound,  it  Avill  be 
done  for  75  cents  each  volume,  in  neat  style. 

Nos.  33,  33,  34.— These  are  splendid  large  Steel  En¬ 
gravings,  heautiiully  colored,  the  first  two  from  paintings  by 
Bingham,  and  the  last  by  Tait,  which  was  until  recently 
sold  at  $15.  They  are  published  by  Air.  KncEdler,  772  Broad¬ 
way,  New-York  City,  formerly  the  American  Branch  of  the 
celebrated  House  of  Alessrs.  Goupil  &  Co.,  Paris. 

No.  35.— Alorton’s  celebrated  Gold  Pen,  in  convenient 
extension  Silver  Case,  with  pencil.  AVe  give  only  No.  5,  of 
his  best  quality,  made  of  coin  gold  and  silver. 

No.  3G.— An  excellent  assortment  of  drawing  or  Draught¬ 
ing  Steel  and  brass  instruments,  each  piece  neatly  fitted  into 
a  Rosewood  Case.  ■  For  particulars  see  Descriptive  Sheet. 

Nos.  37,  38.— Very  fine  portable  Rosewood  Case,  which 
holds  all  writing  materials,  and  when  opened  form.s  a  writing 
Desk.  Very  good  for  one’s  own  use,  or  for  a  present  to 
Teachers  and  others. 

No.  39.— The  Universal  Clothes  AVringer,  with  the  Cog- 
AVhe®ls,  etc.— tlie  best  AVringcr  we  know  of— and  a  most  val¬ 
uable  thing  as  a  labor-saver  and  clotlies-saver. 

No.  30.— After  nearly  two  years’  trial,  wo  can  highly  re¬ 
commend  this  for  general  use.  Sevei  ul  improvements  have 
been  recently  added. 

No.  31.— The  Tea  Set  consists  of  six  pieces,  viz.;  Coffee 
Pot,  Tea  Pot,  Hot-water  Pot,  Sugar  Dish,  Cream  Cup.  and 
Slop  Bowl,  all  of  beautiful  pattern  and  late  style,  embossed. 
They  are  of  the  best  heavy  plating,  known  as  “Slieffleld 
Plato,”  and  are  manufactured  by  the  well-known  Lucius 
Hart  &  Sons,  No.  4  &  6  Burling  Slip,  (near  our  former  Office). 
Air.  Hart  has  been  in  the  same  place  upwards  of  SO  years ; 
and  the  fact  that  he  supplies  tlie  above  premiums  is,  wo  sup¬ 
pose,  a  sufficient  guarantee  of  their  value. 

Wo.s.  33,  33,  34.— AVe  offer  tliese  kinds,  lo  meet  the 
wants  of  all.  Nos.  82  and  33,  for  General  Family  Sewing.— 
No.  34,  for  family  use,  especially  if  lioavy  cloth,  leather, 
etc.,  are  to  be  seived.  Their  respective  advantages  are  given 
more  fully  in  our  Descriptive  Sheet,  noted  above. 

Nos  35,  36.— An  excellent  instrument,  as  wo  know  fl-ora 
six  years’  trial  of  one  in  our  Sunday  School  room.  Send  a 
stamp  to  Geo.  A.  Prince  &  Co.,  Bnlfalo,  N.  T.,  for  an  illus¬ 
trated  descriptive  catalogue,  giving  sizes,  prices,  etc.  In 
past  years,  many  neighborhoods  and  schools  have  combined 
in  raising  clubs  of  subscribers,  and  secured  tlirougli  us  these 
instruments  for  Churches,  and  for  both  Day  School  and  Sun¬ 
day  School  rooms. 

No.  37 .—Steimoay  S  Sons'  Pianos  arc  too  well  known  to 
need  a  word  of  commendation.  Send  to  them  at  No.  71  <& 
73  East  14th-st.,  N.  T.  City,  for  descriptive  catalogue.  The 
kind  we  ofl'cr  is:  “7  Octavo,  Rosewood  case,  large  front 
Romid  Corners,  Cawed  logs  and  Lyre;  Over-strung  Base, 
with  their  Agrafte  Treble,  and  containing  all  modern  im- 
provements.”  Tlie  instruments  wo  oft’er  are  specially  pre¬ 
pared  for  us,  with  Carved  Legs,  etc.,  and  like  all  tlicir  pianos, 
are  very  desirable.- AVo  offer  this  premium  on  extraordinary 
terms.  It  will  pay  a  Lady  for  a  year’s  work.  AVe  tliink  lliero 
are  several  who  by  securing  the  aid  of  fi-icnds  in  neigliboring 
towns,  and  by  a  thorough  canvass,  may  readily  obtain  the 
requisite  number  of  subscribers.  There  are  in  almost  cvciy 
town  more  than  500  fttmlllcs  who  ought  to  liavc  the  Agricul¬ 
turist.  Two  or  three  persons  (one  a  railroad  Conductor), 
have  each  sent  more  than  subscribers  enough  to  obtain  this 
magnifloont  premium.  It  Avould  pay  aii  enterprising  man 
to  canvass  for  tliis,  and  afterward  sell  it.  We  have  engaged 
five  instruments,  and  more  If  needed.  Who  will  have  the  first? 

Nos.  38,  39.— The  Barometer  is  a  yory  useful  Instru¬ 
ment,  for  farmers  especially,  as  a  weather  guide.  AVe  know 
of  none  so  good  for  the  prioo,  as  AVoodrufl'’3  Patent  Afcrcu- 
rlal,  made  by  Charles  Wilder,  of  Peterboro,  N.  H,  who  wUl 


1866.1 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST 


301 


supply  circulars  and  all  needed  information.  •^Ir.  Woodruff’s 
improvement  renders  them  so  portable  that  Mr.  \yilder 
guarantees  the  safe  carriage  of  any  premium  instrument  we 
give,  if  sent  anywhere  East  of  the  Kooky  Mountains.  We 
offer  two  kinds,  differing  mainly  in  size  and  finish. 

No.  40.— The  Aquarius,  or  Water-Thrower,  is  an  excel¬ 
lent  portable  force-pump,  useful  in  many  ways— to  water  the 
garden  or  plants,  to  wasli  windows,  carriages,  etc.  One  can 
catch  up  the  implement,  carry  it  to  any  place,  and  from  a 
pail  throw  a  considerable  stream  of  water  20  to  30  feet  or 
more,  and  thus  sometimes  put  out  an  incipient  fire  that  could 
not  be  readily  reached  otheiuvise.  It  has  a  jet-pipe,  and  also 
a  rose,  or  sprinkler.  An  air-chamber  attached  keeps  up  a 
steady  stream.  Send  to  Wm.  &  B.  Douglas,  Middletown, 
Conn.,  and  get  a  circular  giving  full  particulars. 

No.  41.— The  Buckeye  Mower  is  so  widely  known  and 
approved,  that  we  need  not  use  space  to  describe  it.  Send 
to  Adriance,  Platt  &  Co.,  Manufacturers,  165  Greenwieh-st., 
New- York,  for  circulars,  etc.,  giving  particulars.  A  few  farm¬ 
ers  might  unite  their  efibrts,  and  readily  secure  subscribers 
enough  for  this  premium,  and  own  it  in  common.  Many  can 
raise  a  ciub  of  160,  alone. 

No.  42.— Allen’s  Cjdinder  Plow,  a  successful  trial  of 
which  we  described  in  May  1861,  has  since  been  further  im¬ 
proved,  and  is  a  meritorious  Implement.  The  one  we  offer 
is  the  Jledium  Two-Horse  size,  cutting'  a  furrow  12  to  14 
Inches  wide,  and  5  to  3  indies  deep.  It  is  fitted  with  wheel, 
and  “  Skim  Plow,”  making  it  double,  like  the  Michigan 
Plow.  For  descriptive  circular,  address  K.  H.  Allen  & 
Co.,  191  Water-street,  New-Tork  City. 

- - - 

Commercial  Matters— Market  Prices. 


In  accordance  with  our  usual  custom,  we  herewith 
present  in  the  October  number  a  series  of  tables  prepared 
expressly  for  the  American  Agriculturist,  which  give,  in 
a  very  condensed  and  convenient  form  for  study  and 
reference,  the  various  transactions  in  Breadstuff's,  not 
only  during  the  past  month  but  for  a  series  of  years  past. 
These  figures  are  believed  to  be  thoroughly  reliable,  no 
labor  or  care  having  been  spared  to  make  them  so. 

1.  TKANSA.CT10X3  AT  TUE  NEW-YOKK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Eije.  Barley.  Oats. 
2tdayst7ii.9m’th.266.000  1,275.000  2,373,000  109,000  167.000  764.000 
27  days  last  m’th.  318,000  1,397,000  1,835,000  61,000  141,000  1,975,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  B,ve.  Barley. 

24  days  tfti.9  month,  351,000  2,052.000  2,318.000  97,000  5,500 
27  days  tost  moiuh,  314,000  1,965,000  2,149,000  103,000  - 


2.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley.  Oats. 

24  days  1865 . 2GG.OOO  1,275,000  2,373,000  109,000  167,000  764,000 

25  d.ay8  1864 . 349,500  1,213,000  1,329,000  2,000  51,000  1,354,000 


Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley. 

24  days  1865  .  351,000  2,0,52,000  2,318.000  97,000  5,500 

isiRi  dvir.nn  iKvr,  non  1.421. non  s.ino  i.nno 


3,  Exports  from  New- York,  January  1  to  Sept,  l&'i 
Flour.  Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Oats. 

1863  .  970,967  1,616,864  1,506,368  154,214  54.673 

1864  . 1,553.382  10,998,797  709,293  453  31,185 

1863 .  1,832,899  11.700,100  7,292,261  409,1,57  116,097 

1862  .  2,254,501  15,393,811  8,640,113  1,031,616  66,537 


4.  Exports  of  Breadstuff's  from  the  United  States  to 
Great  Britain  arid  Ireland,  each  of  19  years,  ending  Sep,  1 ; 


Flour,  bbls. 

Wheat,  busli. 

Corn,  bush 

1805 . 

...  170,109 

2,989,740 

1,293,404 

1864 . 

...1,241.804 

16,492,523 

717,434 

1863 . 

. .  1,479,413 

23,167,190 

10,334,356 

1862  . 

.  ..2,67'2,515 

25,754,709 

l'),084,168 

1861 . 

...2,561,661 

25,553,370 

11,703,034 

i860  . 

4,938,7)4 

2,2'21.857 

1859 . . . 

. ..  106  457 

439,010 

34'2,013 

1858  . 

...1,295,430 

6,535,643 

3,317.802 

1857 . 

. ..  849,600 

7,479,401 

4.746,278 

1856 . 

7,956,406 

6,731,161 

1856 . 

324,427 

6,679.138 

1854  . 

6,038,003 

6,049.371 

1853 . 

...!, 600,449 

4,823,519 

1,425.278 

1852 . . 

2,728,442 

1,487,398 

1'51 . . 

1,496,355 

2,205,601 

1850 . 

461.276 

4,753,358 

1849,.  . 

...1,137,556 

1,140,194 

12,685,260 

1848  . 

241,300 

4,390.226 

1847 . 

3,155,845 

4,000,359 

17,157.659 

Total  for  19  years. 

.  .24,895,755 

142,580,681 

112,326,796 

5.  Exports  from  the  United  States  to  the  Continent 
of  Europe  for  11  years,  each  ending  Sept.  1. 


Flour. 

Wheat. 

Corn. 

Rye. 

1865  . 

.  23,261 

112,315 

11,485 

97,529 

1S64 . 

. 100,511 

338,819 

13,369 

18,965 

1863 . 

. 219,579 

2,343,314 

68,957 

435,205 

1862 . •. 

. 626,672 

7,617,472 

329,074 

1,612,926 

1861 . 

. 142.129 

3,452,496 

101,145 

347,258 

1  RfiQ  . . . 

49  ‘MS 

178,031 

57,845 

19,358 

25,519 

1859 . 

.  51,388 

1858 . 

. 303,100 

390,428 

16,848 

13,100 

1857  . 

. 483,344 

2,875,653 

543,500 

216,162 

1856 . 

2,610,079 

282,083 

1,975.178 

1855  . 

.  7,763 

4.972 

308,428 

31.569 

Total  for  11  years.2, 749, 398  19,976,424  1,712,856  4,746,892 


G.  Receipts  of  Breadstujffs  at  the  head  of  tide  water  at 
Albany,  by  the  Erie  and  other  New-York  Canals,  from 
the  Commencement  of  Navigation,  May  1st,  to  and  includ¬ 
ing  Sept.  Sth,  in  the  years  indicated. 

Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Bailey.  Oats. 

1861. . ..661.100  13,340,000  11,133,000  448,000  206,000  3,113,800 

1662. . .  .886,206  16,28'2,800  11,721,500  53l,'200  381,100  2,509,400 

1863.. .. 748. 100  10,935,000  15,350,700  264,000  79,800  5,157,500 

1864.. .. 556. 200  9,933,300  5,337,200  80,900  166,100  4,979,200 

1865.'... 421,100  5,005,600  .,729,400  290,900  190,700  5,543,100 


CuBiiENT  Wholesale  Pmobs, 


Super  to  Extra  Southern . 

Extra  Western . 

Extra  Genesee . 

Superfine  Western . 

Rye  Flouk . 

CouN  Meal . 

Wueat— All  kinds  of  White. 
All  kinds  of  Red  and  Amber. 

CoKN— Yellow . 

Mixed . 

Oats— Western . 

State . 

Rye  . 

Barley  ..  . 

Cotton— Middlings,  ^  tt _ 

Hops— Crop  of  1864,  ft _ 

Feathers- Live  Geese,  ft 

Seed— Clover',  ft  . 

Timothy,  ¥1  bushel . 

Flax,  igt  bushel . 

SnoAK— Brown,  ft  . 

Molasses,  Cuba,  ^gl  . 

Coffee— Rio,  ft . 

Tobacco,  Rentucky,  &c.,  ?l  ft. 

Seed  Loaf,  ft  . 

Wool — Domestic  Fleece,^  ft. 

Domestic,  pulled,  19  ft . 

California,  unwashed,  — ,. . . 

Tallow.  ft  . 

Oil  Cake—?  ton . 

PoKK— Mess,  ?  barrel . 

Prime,  ft  barrel  . 

Beep— Plain  mess . 

Lard,  In  barrels,  ft  ft . 

Butter- Western,  ?  ft . 

State,  ?ft  . 

Cheese . 

Beans—?  bushel . 

Peas- Canada.  ?  bushel . 

Eggs— Fresh,  ?  dozen . 

Poultry'— Fowls,  ?  ft . 

Turkeys,  ?  ft  . 

Potatoes— Mercers,  ?  bbl. . . 

Peach  Blows,  ?  barrel . 

Buckeyes— Rew,  ?  barrel..., 
Apples—?  barrel . 


All 

Ig.  19. 

Sept.  16. 

b§G  00 

(<$  7  25 

$6  90 

&  8  to 

.  8  25 

©13  00 

9  25 

@14  00 

.  0  80 

©13  50 

7  70 

@14  00 

.  7  23 

@10  00 

8  20 

@10  90 

.  (3  05 

©  6  GO 

G  90 

@  7  40 

.  5  GO 

@  6  00 

5  60 

@  6  25 

5  10 

©  5  50 

4  75 

®  5  35 

,  1  90 

®  2  23 

2 10 

@  2  40 

.  1  40 

@  2  09 

1  55 

@  2  10 

90 

@  92 

89 

©  90 

89 

®  91 

73 

@  89 

.  65 

©  66 

53 

@  54 

Qi 

@  — 

53 

@  - 

96 

@  1  09 

1 00 

@  1  03 

Nominal. 

1  10 

©  1  25 

42 

@  44 

44 

@  43% 

12%@  50 

15 

©  45 

75 

©  80 

80 

@  - 

Nominal. 

28 

@  so 

Nominal. 

5  00 

@  5  50 

.  a  25 

@  2  40 

2  85 

@  3  00 

lOV®  16 

11  16% 

33 

©  60 

38 

©  62% 

17%®  21% 

18 

@  22% 

6 

©  20 

6 

@  20 

7 

®  30 

7 

@  30 

60 

@  77% 

57M®  80 

60 

@  70 

CO 

®  72% 

@  43 

20 

@  43 

12 

®  13 

13%®  10% 

47  50 

®55  00 

48  50 

©55  UU 

30  00 

@32  50 

30  50 

@32  50 

24  00 

@ — 

24  50 

@25  00 

8  50 

®12  50 

8  50 

@12  30 

19K@  24% 

22M®  27% 

21 

@  29 

25 

©  33 

32 

©  45 

33 

©  50 

10 

@  16 

11%@  16% 

1  40 

@  1  '10 

1  50 

©  2  00 

.  1  35 

i)  1  40 

1 35 

@  1  40 

26 

@  29 

25 

@  27 

@  26 

24 

®  25 

26 

@  27 

26 

®  28 

1  50 

@  2  75 

2  00 

®  2  50 

1  50 

®  2  00 

1  25 

®  1  50 

6  00 

®  9  00 

3  00 

@  5  00 

For  some  inexplicable  reason,  gold  continues  high, 
standing  at  142%,  Sept.  16th,  against  142%,  Aug.  181h. 
Business  in  farm  products  lias  been  fair.  Breadstuffs 
were  for  a  time  so  high,  as  to  almost  preclude  export; 
but  with  increased  receipts,  latterly,  prices  have  tended 
downward.  Provisions  have  been  firmer,  but  closed 
irregularly ...  .W^ool  has  been  active,  and  piices  highei 

_ Cotton  went  up,  but  is  weaker  again,  The  receipts 

have  been  very  large.*  Tlie  stock  at  this  port,  Sept.  1, 
was  74,862  bales,  against  3,810  bales  the  same  time  last 
year _ Hay,  Hops  and  Tobacco  have  been  in  fair  re¬ 

quest.  Tlie  current  piices  are  given  in  tlie  table. 


- - H  * - - 

Agricultural  and  other  Fairs. 


state  and  National  Fairs. 

American  Institute,  N.  Y.  City,  Sept.  12ih  to  Oct.  19th ; 

J.  W.  Chambers.  _ 

Horticultural  Exhibilion  Am.  Inst.,  N.  Y.  City,  (Gree¬ 
ley  Prizes),  Sept.  12  to  Oct.  19. 

Indiana,  Ft.  Wayne,  Oct.  2  to  7  ;  W.  H.  Loomis. 
Indiana  Pomological.  Ft  Wayne.  Oct.  2  to  7. 
Michigan,  Kalamazoo,  National  Exhibition  of  horses, 
Oct.  3  to  6  ;  C.  F.  Kidder. 

Oliio,  Dayton,  National  Horse  Fair,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

County  and  Otlier  Fairs 


MAINE. 

East  Oxford  Co.,  West  Peru,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Franklin  Co.,  Farmington,  Oct.  3  to  5  ;  L.  F.  Green. 
West  Oxford  Co.,  Fryeburg,  Oct.  10  to  12. 

York  Co.,  Biddeford,  Ocl.  10  to  i2. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 


Barnstable  Co.,  Barnstable,  Oct.  5. 

Bristol  Co.,  Taunton,  Oct.  3. 

Berkshire  Co.,  PittsfiekI,  Oct.  3  to  4.  r  r, 

Hampden  Ag.  So  ,  Springfield,  Oct.  3,  4  ;  J.  M.  Bagg. 
Hampshire,  Franklin,  and  Hampden,  Northampton, 
Oct.  5,  6  ,  A.  P.  Peck. 

Hampden  East.  Palmer,  Oct.  10. 

Martha’s  'Vineyard,  West  Tisbury,  Oct.  1. 

Plymouth,  Bridgewater,  Ooi.  5. 

Worcester  Soutli,  Sturbi  idge,  Oct.  5. 

NEW  YORK. 

Broome  Co.,  Binghamton,  Ocl.  3  to  6. 

Cayuga  Co.,  Auburn,  Oct  3  to  6.  „  . 

Cliaiitauqua  Fai  iners  and  Meciianics’  Union,  Fredonia, 
Oct.  4  to  6  ;  Jno  S.  Russell. 

Delhi  Ag.  and  Mechanics’  Association,  Oct.  5,  6. 

Otsego  Co.,  Cooperstuwn,  Ocl.  3  to  5. 

Queens  Co.,  Flushing,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Schoharie  Co.,  Schoharie,  Oct.  5.  6. 

Tompkins  Co.,  Itlica,  Oct.  '27,  28. 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

Berks  Co.,  Reading,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Burgettstowii,  Ocl.  5,  6. 

Doylestown  Co.,  Doylestown,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Franklin  Co.,  Sommerville.  Oct.  2  to  5. 

Luzerne  Co.,  Wyoming,  Oct.  3  to  5  ;  Steuben  Jenkins. 
Warren  Co.,  Belvidere,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

ILLINOIS. 

Kankakee  Co.,  Kankakee,  Oct.  4  to  6  ;  E.  Cobb,  Pres. 
Montgomery  Co.,  Hillsboro,  Oct,  11  to  13. 

Pike  Co.,  Pittsfield,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

Randolph  Co.,  Sparla,  Oct.  4  to  6;  Wm.  Addison. 
Schuyler  Co.,  Rushville,  Oct.  11  to  13. 

Sandwich  Union,  (De  Kalb  Co.),  Oct,  3  to  5. 

IOWA. 


Madison  Co.,  Winstead,  Oct.  3,  4. 

Page  Co.,  Clarinda,  Oct.  5  to  7  ;  T.  T.  Pendergraft. 
Van  Buren  Co.,  Keosauqua,  Oct.  5,  6. 

'Washington  Co.,  Washington,  Oct,  3,  4, 


OHIO. 

Ashtabula  Co.,  Jefferson,  Oel.  3  to  5. 

Biiller  Co.,  HamiUon,  Ocl.  3  to  G. 

Coslioclon  Co.,  Cosliooion,  Oct.  11  to  13;  W.  R.  Forker. 
Greeiic.Co.,  Xenia.  Ocl.  4  to  6. 

Hancock  Co.,  Findlay,  Oct.  5  10  7. 

Highland  Co.,  Hillsboro,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Harrison  Co..  Cadiz,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Knox  Co.,  Ml.  Vernon,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Meigs  Co.,  Racine,  Oct.  4  to  5  ;  Wra.  H.  Lasley. 
Malioning  Co.,  Canfield,  Oct.  3  to  5. 

Morgan  Co.,  McCoiinellsville,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

Morrow  Co.,  Mt.  Gilead,  Oct.  3  to  5 
Stark  Co..  Canton,  Oct.  3  to  G. 

Summit  Co.,  Akron,  Oct.  4  lo  6. 

Wayne  Co.,  Wooster,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Wood  Co,,  Bowling  Green,  Oct.  3,  4. 

WISCONSIN. 

Adams  Co.,  Friendsliip.  Oct.  4,  5 ;  G.  W.  Waterman. 
Lacrosse  Co.,  West  Salem,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Vernon  Co.,  Viroqua,  Ocl.  4  to  6. 

MICHIGAN. 

Barry  Co.,  Hastings,  Oct.  11,  12. 

Hillsdale  Co.,  Hillsdale,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

Kalamazoo  Horse  Show,  Kalamazoo,  Oct.  3  to  6. 

Ionia  Co.,  Ionia,  Oct.  4,  5. 

Oakland  Co.,  Pontiac,  Oct.  4  to  G  ;  J.  R.  Bowman. 
Shiawassee  Co.,  Owasso,  Oct.  4  lo  6. 

Washtenaw  Co.,  Ann  Arbor,  Oct.  4  to  6. 

CANADA  WEST. 


Pell,  Oct.  3,  4. 

East  York,  Oct.  5. 
Scarsborougli,  Oct.  6. 
North  York,  Oct.  10,  11. 
Toronto,  Oct.  19,  20. 
Lambton,  Sarnia.  Oct.  5. 

East  Durham, 


Pickering,  Oct.  10. 

'West  York,  Oct.  11,  12. 
Whitby,  Oct.  12. 
Wliitchurch,  Oct.  13. 
Gore  of  Toronto,  Oct,  18. 
Peel,  Oct.  3,  4. 
rt  Hope,  Oct.  3,  4. 


Sundry  Otlier  Fairs. 


Bradford  Co.,  Vt.,  Provincial  Fair,  Oct.  3  to  5  ;  Wind¬ 
ham  Co.,  Vt.,  at  Fayetteville,  Ocl.  4,  5. - Union  Fair, 

at  Woodbury.  Conn.,  Oct.  3,  S.- - Burlington  Co.,  N.  J., 

at  Mount  Holly,  Oct.  3,  4. - Warren  Co..  Ind.,  at  Wil¬ 

liamsport,  Oct.  10  to  13;  F.  Bryant,  Seo. — Jeflbrson  Co., 
Kan.,  Ool.  3,  4  ;  Wyandotte,  Kan.,  at  Wyandotte,  Oct.  5, 

6. - Boone  Co.,  Mo.,  at  Columbia,  Oct.  3  lo  5  ;  Clinton 

Co.,  Mo.,  at  Plaltsburg,  Oct.  4  to  6. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


“  &  CO.” — Out-  readers  will  notice  on  the  lirst 
page,  the  addition  of  “&  Co.”  lo  the  name  of  the  long-time 
Publisher  and  Proprietor  of  this  journal. — Mr.  Lucius  A. 
Chase,  well  known  as  a  Boston  Publisher,  formerly  of 
the  firm  of  Brown,  Taggart  &  Chase,  but  for  several 
years  past  of  the  firm  of  Chase  &  Nichols,  43  Washing¬ 
ton  St.,  has  disposed  of  his  Boston  business  lo  his  late 
partner,  Mr.  Sami.  F.  Nichols,  and  taken  a  partnership 
interest  in  the  American  Agriculturist,  to  the  Business 
Department  of  which  he  will  hereafter  devote  his  whole 
energy  and  experience,  that  all  its  business  matters,  in 
general  and  in  detail,  may  be  more  promptly  and  tlior- 
ouglily  attended  to  than  ever.  This  arrangement,  while 
to  the  advantage  of  the  patrons  of  the  paper,  will  relieve 
Mr.  Judil  somewhat  in  the  severe  double  labors  ol  Pub¬ 
lisher  and  responsible  Editor,  that  have  pressed  upon  him 
for  more  than  a  dozen  yeais  past.  As  chief  Proprietor, 
however,  Mr.  Judd  will  continue  to  constantly  superin¬ 
tend  and  advise  in  all  departments,  but  lie  will  have  rather 
more  freedom  lo  visit  among  our  readers  for  observation 
and  gathering  practical  information,  and  also  give  more 
time  to  the  Editorial  work — lo  the  benefit  of  the  readers 
doobtless.  Mr.  Cha.se,  as  we  are  happy  to  know,  has 
long  been  recognized  among  his  busine.«s  compeers  in 
Boston  as  a  man  of  sterling  Christian  integrity,  and  of 
active  methodical  business  habits,  and  he  will  be  wel¬ 
comed  to  his  new  field  of  labor  by  all  our  readers,  as  he 
is  by  The  Associate  Editors. 

“  BSosmos.” — A  small  red  covered  pamphlet 
bearing  this  title  has  fallen  into  our  hands  It  is  an  ad¬ 
vertising  medium  of  the  "New  York  Medical  University.” 
We  should  not  notice  the  thing,  were  it  not  that  a  sim¬ 
ilarity  in  name  might  lead  some  to  think  that  this  had 
some  relation  to  the  Me.  ical  Department  of  the  Uni¬ 
versity  of  the  City  of  New  York,  an  institution  which 
could  not  put  out  such  an  advertisement  as  this. 

Vines. 

— Ira  Hylan,  Rockingham  Co.,  N.  H.,  asks  how  “  to  kill 
running  blackberry  vines  ?”  Plow  the  ground  deep  this 
fall;  plow  it  twice  next  June,  and  sow  buckwheat. 
Harrow  thoroughly  between  the  plowings.  The  next 
year  manure  well,  and  plant  Indian  corn,  and  cultivate 
well.  If  the  work  is  properly  performed,  the  vines  will 
give  no  more  trouble.  If  the  plowing  is  only  half  done, 
and  the  hoeing  not  one  quarter,  the  vines  will  grow  finely. 


303 


AMEKIOAN  ■  AG-RIGULTt7BlST. 


[October 


Clay  Soil.— “  Q.  W.  W.”  writes 
to  the  Agriculturist :  “  I  have  a  clay  farm  and  would 
like  to  know  If  it  will  pay  to  underdrain  it?”  Most 
certainly  it  will,  if  there  is  an  excess  of  water..  And  there 
is  no  danger  of  rendering  it  too  dry  by  drains,  even  if  it 
were  not  excessively  wet.  “  Men  w’hom  I  think  ought 
to  know,  have  told  me  that  water  will  never  drain  iJirough 
this  stiff  clay  into  the  tiles;  but  will  remain  on  the  surface 
till  it  evaporates.”  Whoever  tells  you  so,  knows  nothing 
about  draining  clay  soils  with  tiles.  It  is  impossible  for 
water  to  percolate  through  a  heavy  soil  as  soon  as  a 
light  one  ;  but  tiiousands  and  thousands  of  acres  of  stiff 
clay  have  been  drained  with  tiles,  and  in  a  year  or  two, 
changed  from  a  soggy,  adhesive  mass,  to  a  comparatively 
friable  and  light  soil.  It  is  folly  to  afhrm  that  water  will 
not  find  the  bore  of  tlie  tiles.  We  would  like  to  see  these 
doubting  and  “  knowing  ”  ones  attempt  to  keep  the  water 
out  of  the  tiles,  by  covering  the  joints  with  clay.  “  Please 
tell  me  also  how  to  loosen  the  soil  ?”  Read  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  for  June,  page  ISl. 

Kemova.tiBig'  a  Harren.  S®il. — C.  A. 
Carpenter,  Alleghany  Co.,  Penn.,  “  wishes  to  know  how 
to  treat  a  clayey  loam  soil  12  inches  deep,  with  impervi¬ 
ous  subsoil,  which  heaves  greatly  in  winter.  The  ground 
is  nearly  level,  cold,  wet  in  winter,  and  holds  water  after 
showers.  He  can  get  stable  manure  for  $13  per  ton,  and 
bone  dust  for  $32.”  The  first  tiling  to  be  done  is  to  drain 
it.  It  is  folly  to  plow  it  or  to  apply  barnyard  manure,  or 
bone  dust,  until  it  is  relieved  of  the  surplus  water.  If 
the  water  comes  from  springs  through  the  subsoil,  a  few 
ditches  in  the  right  places  will  relieve  the  entire  plot  of 
surplus  water ;  but  the  effect  upon  the  soil  will  be  noth¬ 
ing  like  so  good  as  thorough  drainage,  with  ditches  30 
feet  apart  over  the  entire  field.  Then  plow  deep  be¬ 
fore  winter.  Next  spring  apply  a  half  ton  of  bone,  per 
acre,  or  a  dressing  of  good  barnyard  manure.  Then  we 
will  warrant  a  heavy  crop  of  Indian  corn. 

Soot  as  a  Mamsi'e, — “F.  M.  B.,”  has  a 
quantity  of  soot  and  wishes  to  know  if  it  will  be  a  good 
manure  for  his  flower  borders.  Soot  is  valuable  as  a 
manure,  and  principally  on  account  of  the  ammoniacal 
salts  it  contains.  It  is  best  used  in  tiie  liquid  form,  and 
it  should  not  be  applied  in  a  too  concentrated  state.  As 
soot  varies  a  great  deal,  the  proper  strength  can  only  be 
determined  by  experiment.  Try  half  a  peck  in  a  barrel 
of  water,  watch  its  effects  on  the  plants,  and  increase  or 
diminish  the  quantity  as  may  seem  advisable. 

SSojie  Cliarcoal. — W.  S.  Demaree,  Mont¬ 
gomery  Co.,  Ind. — Bone  charcoal  is  made  by  healing 
bones  in  closed  vessels,  from  which  the  products  of 
combustion  may  pass  off,  but  no  air  find  access.  These 
vessels  are  called  retorts,  and  are  similar  to  the  retorts 
used  at  the  gas  works.  The  gases  which  pass  off  during 
the  heating,  contain  carbonate  of  ammonia  in  large  quan¬ 
tities  ;  these  are  conden.sed  in  water,  with  acidui.ated  sul¬ 
phuric  acid.  The  liquid  is  subsequently  mingled  with  fine 
ground  plaster,  which  forms,  with  tlie  carbonate  of  am¬ 
monia,  sulphate  of  ammonia,  and  carbonate  of  lime. 
The  liquor  is  drawn  off  from  the  chalky  carbonate  of  lime, 
and  the  ammonia  salt  obtained  by  evaporation.  The 
bones  are  usually,  after  breaking  up  somewhat,  re-heated 
to  free  them  perfectly  from  volatile  substances.  They 
are  then  broken  down  to  the  requisite  fineness,  and  sift¬ 
ed  from  the  dusty  panicles.  The  dust  may  be  used  to  make 
superphosphate  of  lime.  Bone-black,  after  having  been 
used  till  it  is  no  longer  efficient  in  purifying  syrups,  is 
waslied  clean  and  re-heated  in  ves.sels  from  which  the 
air  is  excluded.  Bone-charring  might  be  very  profitable 
at  the  West,  and  we  presume  it  is  somewhat  practised. 

How  to  Mis  Cwt  Feed® — Always  sprinkle 
the  cut  St. aw  and  hay  with  water,  and  mix  it  thoroughly 
with  a  shovel,  scooping  up  the  water  from  the  bottom  of 
the  trougli  before  the  meal  is  put  in.  If  dry  meal  be 
poured  on  wet  straw,  a  small  quantity  will  adhere  to 
every  piece  of  str.aw  and  chaff.  But  if  the  meal  be 
mingled  with  the  straw  before  the  water  is  poured  in, 
much  of  the  meal  will  slick  together,  and  a  portion  of 
the  cut  straw  will  have  no  meal  at  all  on  it.  In  order  to 
induce  slock  to  eat  cut  straw  and  hay  clean,  a  little  meal 
must  adhere  to  every  piece  of  the  straw. 

Mogf  Disease  iu  Virgimia. — A  disease 
called  hog-diphtheria  is  now  rapidly  killing  out  the  hogs 
in  Fairfax  and  adjoining  counties.  The  animal  appears 
well  in  the  morning,  bnt  during  Ihe  day  its  neck  swells 
and  by  the  next  morning  it  is  dead.  It  has  been  stated 
that  no  cure  lias  been  discovered  for  this  fatal  disease.  Mr. 
Louis  Brandt,  Vet.  Surgeon,  5lh  Ave.  &  I-lOtli  st.,  who  has 
had  many  years’  experience  in  rrianaging  this  disease  in 
Texas,  says  il  can  be  cured,  if  attended  to  promptly.  lie 
communicates  Ihe  following;  “Make  G  or  8  incision.? 
from  one  to  two  inches  long,  according  to  the  size  of  the 
hog,  lengthwise  of  the  neck,  through  the  skin,  wliere  tlie 


swelling  is  the  greatest.  Then  place  iu  those  incisions 
as  much  Corrosive  sublimate  (poison)  as  you  can  iiold 
on  the  point  of  a  pen-knife,  spreading  it  on  both  sides  of 
the  cuts.  This  outside  application  counteracts  the  inside 
inflammation ;  an  improvement  is  perceptible  in  a  few 
minutes.  The  animal  should  be  supplied  with  plenty  of 
fresh  water  to  drink.  Hogs  are  seldom  attacked  the 
second  time,  or  have  a  relapse.  Yet  when  it  does  oc¬ 
cur,  the  same  process  should  be  repeated.  This  disease 
will  appear  in  various  parts  of  the  country  nearly  every 
year,  and  it  will  be  a  great  benefit  to  agriculturists  to 
have  a  remedy  alw'ays  at  hand.  As  it  is  contagious,  often 
proving  fatal  to  entire  herds,  the  medical  aid  should  be 
giv-en  in  good  time,  and  diseased  animals  isolated.” 

Bieisaedy  for  Heavess® — G.  W  Hicks,  Brad¬ 
ford  Co.,  Penn.,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist:  “Mix  equal 
parts  of  pulverized  borax  and  saltpetre,  and  give  a  borse 
a  tabiespoonful  in  wet  oats  (or  cut  feed)  twice  a  day. 
Every  other  day  give  a  spoonful  of  sulphur.  Give  also  a 
tablespoonful  of  copperas  twice  a  week.  Continue  this 
for  five  or  six  weeks.  When  one  kind  is  mingled  with 
the  feed,  omit  the  others.  I  have  known  this  to  cure  the 
worst  kind  of  heaves.”  That  is  a  large  dose  of  copperas, 

A  VeteriMary  College. — We  have  long 
needed  an  institution,  in  which  sound  veterinary  instruc¬ 
tion  should  be  given,  and  illu-slrated  by  clinical  and 
hospital  practice.  This  demand  is  now  met  by  the  New 
York  College  of  Veterinary  Surgeons,  the  advertisement 
of  which  is  iu  the  present  number.  We  believe  this 
institution  to  be  well  worthy  of  the  confidence  and  pa¬ 
tronage  of  the  public,  and  sincerely  hope  that  the  time 
will  soon  come,  wlien  the  demand  for  instruction  in  ve¬ 
terinary  medicine  and  surgery  will  be  so  great  that  it 
cannot  be  supplied  by  any  single  institution,  however  ex¬ 
cellent.  At  present,  there  is  a  great  lack  of  well  educa¬ 
ted  veterinarians.  Young  men  of  liberal  education  and 
proper  talent  can  be  more  useful  to  the  country  by  prop¬ 
erly  qualifying  themselves  as  veterinary  surgeons,  than 
they  can  by  entering  the  professions  now  already  over¬ 
crowded.  Those  who  have  desired  to  fit  themselves  for 
this  profession,  have  heretofore  been  obliged  to  go  to 
Europe,  and  we  are  glad  that  facilities  for  acquiring  a 
knowledge  of  veterinary  medicine  are  offered  at  home. 


now  I  have  had  a  constant  supply,  in  all,  amounting  to 
four  hundred  and  twelve  eggs  ;  or  an  average  of  one 
hundred  and  three  for  each  hen  ;  they  average  six  to  the 
pound,  making  a  total  weight  of  6S%  lbs.,  or  more  than 

four  times  the  weight  of  the  fowls. - They  have  cost 

me  for  food,  not  to  exceed  $1.50 ;  they  get  the  leavings 
of  the  table,  with  a  little  corn  and  oats,  and  a  liltle  scrap- 
cake.  Twice  a  day  (morning  and  evening)  I  allow  them 
to  run  on  the  grass  plot  to  pick  grass,  cfec.,  which  they 
enjoy  very  much.  I  think  the  whole  secret  in  making 
hens  lay,  consists  in  regular  feeding  and  good  attendance.” 

I*recocioii«  Cliiclieii. — D.  Breed,  West 
Attleboro,  Mass.,  vouches  for  the  statement  of  “  sub¬ 
scriber,”  that  a  chicken  12  weeks  and  1  clay  old  laid  an 
egg.  “  Subscriber”  challenges  the  World  for  a  parallel. 

Prolific  Hiieem  Bee. — Bidwell  Bros.,  Api¬ 
arians  of  Minnesota,  write  us  that  they  have  taken  from 
one  Italian  stcxik  of  bees  one  comb  well  filled  with  eggs 
each  day  fur  30  clays.  The  combs  measure  8x15  inches, 
making  240  square  inches  on  both  sides,  which  contain 
25  to  the  inch,  or  6,000  cells  to  each  comb.  Allowing  one 
sixth  for  bee  bread,  the  queen  has  laid  150,000  eggs  in  one 
month,  and  can  lay  X  million  during  the  working  season. 

Bard  and  Tofeacco  on  Trees.— E. 
Gaylord,  Floyd  Co.,  Iowa,  used  a  preparation  of  lard 
and  tobacco  upon  Ms  pear  trees,  and  succeeded  In  pre 
venting  the  rabbits  from  barking  them.  Most  of  the  trees 
are  growing  well,  but  as  some  have  stopped  growing,  he 
wishes  to  know  if  these  trees  are  injured  by  the  applica¬ 
tion.  This  is  a  point  difficult  for  us  to  decide,  and  one 
which  our  subscriber,  with  the  facts  before  him  can,  by 
taking  a  little  pains,  settle  satisfactorily  by  experiment. 
As  we  have  no  occ;asion  to  keep  rabbits  from  our  trees 
we  have  no  experience  to  offer.  Our  impression  is,  that 
the  mixture  did  not  hurt  the  trees.  The  fact  that  some 
among  150  young  pear  trees  stopped  growing,  is  nothing 
unusual,  and  is  no  strong  proof  that  the  greasing  was 
the  cause.  It  is  not  an  unusual  thing  to  grease  young 
trees  wliere  rabbits  are  troublesome,  and  we  have  not 
heard  of  injury  from  the  practice.  If  any  of  our  readers 
have  used  grease  in  this  manner  either  with  or  without 
tobacco,  will  they  please  give  the  results. 


A  Botiltry  Beport. — “  Old  Gray  Beard,” 
Hunterdon  Co.,  N.  J.,  writes  :  “I  commenced  keeping 
an  account  with  my  poultry  Dec.  1st,  having  11  hens  and 
1  cock.  In  Dec.  I  got  141  eggs,  in  Jan.  118,  in  Feb.  131, 
in  March  192,  in  April  162,  in  May  136  ;  880  eggs  in  six 
months.  At  cts.  a  piece,  the  average  price,  880  eggs 
would  amount  to  $22.00.  I  set  one  hen  in  April  on  17 
eggs  ;  she  hatched  out  1"  chicken.?  on  the  3d  of  May,  and 
has  them  all  yet.  All  the  feed  has  cost  me  is  $3.60  for 
wheat  screenings,  at  60  els.  per  bushel,  and  some  lard 
scraps,  valued  at  $1.  In  Feb.  I  carelessly  threw  some 
fish  brine  into  the  poultry  yard,  and  next  morning  one 
hen  was  dead  from  eating  salt,  another  one  so  she  could 
not  walk.  I  poured  sweet  milk  down  her  throat  and  she 
got  well.  Altogether  my  profits  from  my  poultry  have 
been  over  $20  in  six  months.  I  have  always  wintered  my 
poultry  on  corn,  until  last  winter,  and  it  has  cost  me  a 
good  deal  more  to  winter  them,  and  I  never  got  near  as 
many  eggs  as  I  did  last  winter,  when  they  were  fed  on 
wheat  screenings.  I  sometimes  pound  up  oyster  shells 
and  bones  for  them,  and  have  just  a  common  wooden 
shed  for  them  to  live  in  in  winter. 

'ITill  Hems  Bay  ? — George  Atwood,  an¬ 
swers  the  question  as  follows  :  On  the  1st  of  June  1863, 


I  had  13  hens— value . . . .$  6  50 

29  chickens . . .  3  75 

Eggs  set  per  chickens . . . .  3  75 

Expended  for  9)4  bushels  corn  ............. _ ...  15  03 

Wheat  (refuse). . . . . .  22  10 

Wheat  . . . . . .  1  10 

3  bushels  turnips. . . . .  . . . . .  1  50 

Making  stock  and  consumption. . ....$55  73 

June  1.  1864,  I  had  sold,  etc.,  chickens. _ $28  49 

167  dozen,  7  eggs . . . .  ...  37  89 

On  hand,  20  hens  .... .  . . .  15  00 

45  large  chickens . . . . .  22  60 

54  medium  . . . . . . .  7  75 

22  small . . . .  . .  2  70 

40  eggs  under  hens . . . . .  1  S5 


$115  68 

Deduct  cost,  etc .  . .  55  73 


Net  profit  1  year . . . $59  95 


Fresli  a,nttl  Blemty. — Mr.  J.  W. 

Douglass,  of  Brooklyn,  writes  as  follows :  “  I  should  like 
to  give  you  my  experience  in  keeping  hens.  Last  win¬ 
ter  I  tried  to  see  what  could  be  done  by  a  city  man  to¬ 
ward  having  fresh  eggs,  and  selected  from  my  brother's 
flock  two  hens  and  one  cock  of  the  white  Leghorn  vari¬ 
ety.  A  space  4)4  feet  wide  by  22)4  long  was  fenced  off, 
and  on  one  end  a  plain  house  was  built.  About  the  10th 
of  March  I  added  two  Black  Spanish  hens,  and  on  the 
15th  of  March  I  received  one  egg.  From  that  time  till 


UiiclcwIieaLt  Straw  for  Miilcliing'. — 
Melvin  L.  Casler,  DeKalb  Co.,  III.,  writes  :  “  I  wish  to 
know  whether  buckwheat  straw  is  good  for  mulching. 
Father  thinks  it  is  not,  because  it  poisons  the  land.”  We 
have  used  buckwheat  straw  for  more  than  20  years  for 
feeding  stock,  making  manure,  bedding  animals,  and 
mulching  trees  and  plants,  and  we  never  have  met  with 
any  phenomena  that  led  us  to  think  there  was  any  per¬ 
nicious  influence  attending  the  use  of  the  straw. 

Fiiite  Delaware  CSrapes. — Those  who 
object  to  the  Delaware  on  account  of  its  small  size, 
should  see  some  now  on  exhibition  at  our  office,  raised 
by  Van  Wyck  &  Johnston.  Fishkill,  N.  Y.,  and  sent  by 
T.  &  W.  Ryer  &  Co.,  134-6  West  Washington  Market. 
Seven  bunches  weighed  53  oz.  The  largest  bunch  was 

8  inches  long  and  weighed  9)4  oz.,  and  others  weighed 

9  oz.,  8  oz.,  etc.,  down  to  6  oz.,  which  was  the  smallest 
bunch.  Tlie  berries  were  about  as  large  as  the  Dianas 
usually  are— large  enough. 

Breservilig'  CSrapes. — J.  C.  Ashley,  N. 
Y.  In  preserving  grapes  in  a  box  or  jar  in  a  hole  in  the 
garden,  the  hole  is  to  be  covered.  The  grapes  sold  in 
boxes  are  preserved  by  keeping  them  at  an  even  temper¬ 
ature,  which  is  as  low  as  possible  and  not  freeze  the  fruit. 

Wild  Cherry  for  Stoclcs.— D.  Drury, 
inquires  about  a  small  red  wild  cherry  of  New  England, 
which  is  used  successfully  as  stocks.  The  species  al¬ 
luded  to  is  probably  Prunus  (or  Cerasus)  Pennsylvanica, 
which  forms  a  tree  15  to  30  feet  high,  and  is  a  true  cherry, 
while  the  common  Wild  Cherry  belongs  to  another  sub¬ 
genus.  The  tree  is  not  rare  in  southern  New  England, 
and  quite  common  in  the  northern  portions.  Doubtless 
some  of  the  Maine  nurserymen  could  collect  the  fruit. 

Itarlmess’  Nursery  Tree  Digger.— 
In  April  last  we  published  an  engraving  and  description 
of  an  implement,  used  at  the  'West  for  digging  trees  from 
nursery  rows.  We  prefaced  it  by  the  remark  that  ‘  east¬ 
ern  nurserymen  do  not  think  favorably  of  digging  in  any 
other  way  than  by  the  spade.”  Our  fried  F.  K.  Phoenix, 
of  Bloomington,  III.,  who  is  enthusiastically  in  favor  of 
the  digger,  writes  in  its  defence  as  follows.  “  Why  not 
quote  eastern  nurserymen  that  good  trees  can’t  be  grown 
West?  Why  not  quote  some  old  fogy  stage  driver  against 
rail-roads,  or  seamstress  against  sewing  machines?  The 
simple  truth  is,  that  here  spade-digging  of  nursery  trees  is 
absolutely  a  humbug,  a  nuisance  to  buyer  and  seller  alike, 


1865.1 


AMERICAN  AQRICULTURIST. 


303 


whenever  the  tree-digger  can  be  made  to  work  fairly. 
No  person,  so  far  as  I  know,  out  of  thousands,  who  have 
seen  them  work,  or  bought  trees  knowing  them  dug  with 
the  machine,  but  thinks  their  work  perfection  in  its  way.” 

Osag'e  Oraiig'e  Seed. — Letters  continue 
to  come  asking  where  Osage  Orange  Seed  may  be  had. 
We  know  of  none  for  sale.  Now  that  Texas,-  the  prin¬ 
cipal  source  of  it  is  once  more  open  to  commerce,  it  is 
possible  that,  a  part  of  the  crop  now  ripening  may  find 
its  way  to  market.  There  is  no  doubt  that  the  dealers 
will  advertise  it  as  soon  as  they  have  any  in  store. 

Aiiotlsea*  S8il>stitMte  for  I6ox. — “Orator 
Alsatii,”  Washington,  Pa.,  suggests  as  a  good  plant  for 
garden  edgings,  the  common  Chives,  or  Gives,  Allium 
SchcBnoprasum,  figured  and  described  in  the  Agriculturist 
for  June,  1864. — He  says  :  “  It  is  easily  cultivated,  easily 
trimmed,  and  is  perejinial.  It  will  grow  in  any  soil  and 
situation,  is  not  subject  to  the  attacks  of  any  insect,  is 
not  liable  to  run  like  grass,  keeps  exceedingly  clear  of 
weeds,  does  not  suffer  from  the  extremest  cold,  is  the 
very  first  green  thing  in  spring,  may  be  used  as  a  substi¬ 
tute  for  parsley,  or  green  onions,  or  both,  in  the  absence 
of  either,  and,  when  in  full  blossom,  make  a  very  pretty 
show  indeed.  Plant  in  September,  October,  or  March. 
Cut  it  close  and  often  during  the  first  summer,  to  insure 
its  setting  thickly  and  evenly,  and  after  being  cut  once 
in  the  spring  of  its  second  year,  it  will  produce  a  mass  of 
flesh-colored  blossoms,  which  will  last  a  very  long  while.” 

Twenty  Tlionsancl  — Mr.  Francis 

Brill,  Newark,  N.  J.,  sent  us  an  invitation  to  visit  his 
lilies  while  they  were  in  flower,  remarking  that  “  such  a 
sight  was  never  seen  before  in  this  country,  if  in  any 
other.” — We  went,  saw,  and  were  convinced  that  Mr. 
Brill  was  q<»ile  right.  Just  think  of  over  an  acre  of 
Japan  Lilies,  each  individual  flower  of  which  is  an  ob¬ 
ject  of  perfect  beauty !  Tiiere  were  all  varieties  of 
Lilium  lancifohum,  consisting  in  great  part  of  album, 
rubrum  and  punctatum.  There  were,  in  less  numbers, 
the  newer  varieties,  Melpomene,  of  a  beautiful  dark  crim¬ 
son  and  Monstrosum,  a  singular  variety,  bearing  from 
30  to  50  flowers  to  the  stalk,  and  others. 

Sailb  Catalogjues. — We  have  received,  in 
the  order  in  which  they  are  mentioned,  bulb  catalogues 
from  the  following  dealers:  J.  M.  Thorburn  &  Co.,  15 
John  St.,  N.  Y.  City;  James  Vick,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 
(Illustrated) ;  Henderson  &  Fleming,  67  Nassau  St.,  N. 
Y.  City  ;  B.  K.  Bliss,  Springfield.  Mass.  (Illustrated). 
The  prices,  on  account  of  tlie  reduction  in  exchange, 
range  much  lower  tlian  those  of  last  year.  The  bulbs  of 
our  city  dealers  (and  we  doubt  not  of  those  elsewhere) 
open  in  fine  order,  and  are  heavy,  bright  and  sound. 

Colum'biiic  Seeds  Poisonous. — The 

London  Gardeners’  Chronicle  gives  an  account  of  the 
poisoning  of  a  child  by  eating  the  seeds  of  the  com¬ 
mon  garden  Columbine.  The  child  lay  in  a  nearly  un¬ 
conscious  state  for  several  hours  and  recovereil  the  next 
day.  The  relatives  of  the  Columbine  :  Monkshood  and 
Larkspur,  and  even  the  common  Buttercup,  are  all  more 
or  less  acrid,  but  we  rarely  hear  of  evil  results  from  them. 

Prize  Plower  Seed. — “M.  C.  E.,”  Cleve- 
l.and,  O.,  writes  to  know  how  florists  are  able  to  offer  car¬ 
nation  seed  from  “  prize  flowers  only.”  We  presume  it 
really  means  that  the  seed  is  from  the  same  stock  with 
the  flowers  that  took  prizes. 

Keeping  Hollyhocks,  etc. — E.  Gay¬ 
lord,  Floyd  Co.,  Iowa.  Your  bad  success  is  owing  to 
the  fact  that  the  Hollyhock  is  not  really  a  perennial,  and 
is  very  apt  to  die  after  flowering  once.  It  may  be  con¬ 
tinued  by  dividing  the  plants  when  they  have  done  flow¬ 
ering,  and  setting  out  the  short  branches  which  spring 
from  near  the  roots,  to  make  separate  plants.  The  hardy 
perennials  generally,  will  probably  endure  your  winters 
if  they  have  a  good  covering  of  littery  manure. 

Seedlimg;  Verheiias. — We  understand  that 
Air.  Snow,  the  verbena  fancier  of  Chickopee,  Mass.,  has 
sold  six  of  his  new  seedlings  to  a  florist  of  this  city  for 
one  hundred  dollars.  We  note  this  as  indicating  that 
there  is  a  ready  sale  for  a  really  good  novelty  in  flowers 
as  well  as  among  fruits. 

Sowiug  Paklia  Seedfs. — Several  inquire 
what  will  be  the  result  of  sowing  Dahlia  seed.  It  will 
depend  upon  the  “  strain  ”  the  seed  is  from,  as  the  florists 
say.  Generally,  many  poor  flowers,  some  tolerable  ones 
and  now  and  then  a  fine  one,  will  be  the  result.  From 
Its  very  uncertainty,  it  is  an  interesting  culture  to  those 
who  have  the  time  for  it. 


Eucalyptus  resiiiifera. — B.  Peters,  Seott 
Co.,  Iowa.  This  is  an  Australian  tree,  which  the  Em¬ 
peror  of  France  saw  during  his  visit  to  Algiers.  We 
doubt  if  it  has  been  introduced  near  Paris.  The  seeds 
are  not  to  be  had  here,  and  they  would  be  of  no  use  in 
your  cold  climate. 

Tall  Coru. — B.  C.  Townsend,  Esq.,  of  Bay 
Ridge.  L.  I.,  has  sent  us  some  stalks  of  corn,  which  were 
raised  from  seed  brought  from  Peru  by  the  Hon.  E.  G. 
Squier.  The  stalks  are  15  feet  long,  and  have  secondary 
or  “  brace  roots  ”  to  the  hight  of  8  feet.  The  variety  is 
not  early  enough  for  our  climate,  as  it  lias  (Sept.  11th) 
but  just  tasseied,  and  shows  no  signs  of  ears. 

A  Eiue  Cakkage. — We  have  on  our  ex¬ 
hibition  tables,  from  R.  Criswell  (sometimes  called  the 
great  cabbage  man  of  Long  Island),  a  trimmed  cabbage, 
weighing  22%  lbs.  Air.  Criswell  expects  to  ship  50  or 
60,000  to  the  ex-rebels  this  season.  He  has  made  some 
discoveries  in  preparing  and  packing  cabbage  for  ship¬ 
ping,  which  he  claims  will  cause  them  to  keep  longer 
than  by  the  usual  method. 

Iftadisli  Culture. — Agnes  Kemp,  Blair  Co., 
Pa.  If  you  have  tried  for  several  years  without  success 
it  is  likely  that  the  soil  is  cold  and  heavy,  or  otherwise 
unsuitable.  A  rich,  warm,  somewhat  sandy  soil  is  best. 

Am  Early  Kind  of  Sorg^kum. — “  W.  S. 

D.,”  of  Montgomery  Co.,  Ind.,  writes,  asking  about  a 
variety  of  sorghum  called  “  Hoangho.”  He  says:  “A 
variety  in  this  neighborhood,  represented  to  be  of  tliat 
kind,  is  a  much  better  grower  than  any  of  the  other  kinds, 
starting  after  planting  almost  equal  to  corn.  It  is  said 
to  ripen  much  earlier  than  any  other  variety.”  Does  the 
“  Hoangho  ”  uniformly  exhibit  these  qualities  ? 

Currant  "^Vorms,  so  very  destructive  to 
the  currant  bushes  where  they  abound,  eating  off  the 
leaves  and  stripping  the  buslies  so  thoroughly,  that,  un¬ 
less  the  fruit  be  all  cut  off,  or  stripped  off  and  the  canes 
cut  back,  the  plants  usually  die,  may  be  entirely  destroyed 
by  the  use  of  White  Hellebore  (Veratrum  album),  in  fine 
powder.  A  small  particle  of  this  falling  upon  the  worm, 
will  kill  it  at  once,  and  if  it  only  falls  upon  the  upper 
side  of  leaves,  upon  the  under  sides  of  which  tlie  worms 
are  feeding,  they  wilt  all  disappear  within  a  few  liours. 
A  correspondent  in  Cazenovia  has  kept  his  bushes  quite 
free  in  this  way,  and  secured  an  abundance  of  fruit  for  a 
year  or  two  past,  while  his  neighbors  have  lost  not  only 
their  fruit,  but  the  bushes  too. 

"Wkile  and.  fiSlack  Hellekore. — In 

some  of  the  published  accounts  of  the  use  of  White  Hel¬ 
lebore  to  destroy  the  currant  worm,  it  has  been  stated 
that  the  Black  Hellebore  would  probably  answer  as  well. 
This  is  a  mistake,  as  the  two  plants  are  widely  different, 
both  in  their  botanical  relations  and  tlieir  medicinal 
effects.  These  plants  are  both  natives  of  Europe,  and 
the  drug  furnished  by  each  is  imported.  It  is  highly 
probable  that  our  native  Veratrum  viride,  or  American 
Hellebore,  which  is  closely  related  to  the  White  Helle¬ 
bore  bot-anically  and  medicinally,  would  be  efficacious  as 
a  poison  for  the  currant  worm.  It  is  common  in  our 
swamps  and  has  a  strongly  plaited  leaf,  which,  when  it 
first  appears  above  ground  in  spring,  is  sometimes  mis¬ 
taken  for  that  of  the  skunk-cabbage.  It  is  also  known  by 
the  name  of  Indian  Poke.  A  gentleman  at  Staten  Island 
states,  that  he  used  White  Hellebore  upon  his  grape 
vines,  and  he  thinks  it  injured  the  leaves.  What  is  the 
experience  of  others  ? 

Tke  ®eatk  of  Sir  Win.  >3.  Hooker. — 

Botanists  and  horticulturists  will  be  pained,  though  per¬ 
haps  not  surprised  to  hear  of  the  death  of  Sir  William 
Jackson  Hooker,  who  had  reached  the  advanced  age  of 
80  years.  He  was  best  known  to  horticulturists  as  the 
director  of  the  Royal  Botanical  Gardens  at  Kew,  near 
London,  and  the  long  time  editor  of  the  Botanical  Alaga- 
zine.  His  botanical  writings  are  numerous,  and  all 
working  botanists  are  aware  of  their  high  value,  which 
is  enhanced  by  excellent  illustrations  from  the  facile 
pencil  of  their  author.  Sir  William  was  knighted  in  1836 
in  recognition  of  his  valuable  services  to  botanical  science. 

Tke  Ag’riciiltwraS  Hepartmemt. — 

The  following  appears  in  the  Washington  correspondence 
of  one  of  our  daily  papers  :  “  Air.  J.  S.  Grinnell,  the  ex¬ 
perienced  chief  clerk  of  the  Agricultural  Bureau,  has 
been  removed  from  that  office  by  Commissioner  Newton, 
and  his  place  supplied  by  a  Air.  Stokes,  nephew  of  the 
latter.  The  change  thus  made  calls  out  considerable 
criticism,  and  will  be  generally  reprobated  by  the  large 
number  of  people  who  are  personally  acquainted  with 
the  merits  of  Air.  Grinnell.  It  is  stated  that  a  large 
number  of  the  leading  agriculturists  of  the  country  have 
become  so  dissatisfied  with  the  manner  in  which  the 


affairs  of  the  Agricultural  Bureau  are  being  supervised 
under  the  conduct  of  the  present  Commissioner,  that  a 
combined  expression  of  disapproval  of  his  further  reten¬ 
tion  in  office  is  to  he  made  at  the  agricultural  fairs  to  be 

held  during  the  present  month.” - Tliis  announeement 

will  disgust,  though  it  will  not  surprise,  all  who  had 
any  hope  that  the  Department  under  its  present  inefficient 
head  would  be  of  any  benefit  to  Agriculture.  Mr.  Grin¬ 
nell  as  chief  clerk  was  one  of  a  few  connected  with  the 
“  thing,”  who  saved  it  from  being  utterly  ridiculous  and 
contemptible,  and  what  good  came  of  it,  was  mainly 
done  by  him  in  spite  of  the  “  chief.”  We  wish  that  the 
President  could  be  induced  for  a  wliile  to  stop  hearing 
speeclies  from,  and  making  speeches  to,  repentant  rebels, 
and  give  loyal  men  a  hearing.  He  would  find  clo.se  at 
home  matters  that  need  a  ileal  of  reconstructing.  AA’hen 
Congress  meets,  we  liope  to  see  a  committee  appointed 
to  investigate  matters,  and  have  them  inquire  of  what 
use  are  tlie  propagating  gardens,  except  to  Senators,  and 
why  an  “experimental  garden”  is  needed  to  furnish 
tomatoes  and  calibages  to  the  kitchen  of  the  While 
House.  They  might  also  inquire  how  many  subordinates 
are  on  the  sick  list  from  being  kept  in  unhealthy  apart¬ 
ments,  and  how  many  assistants  are  kept,  notwithstand¬ 
ing  those  they  were  appointed  to  “  assist,”  protested  that 
they  were  utterly  incapable.  Let  us  have  a  general  house 
cleaning,  or  shut  up  altogether,  or,  as  turtles  will  live 
without  a  head,  decapitate,  and  let  the  boys  run  the  shop. 


Secretaries  of  AgriciiStsEi-al  Socie¬ 
ties. — Will  you  please  remember  that  if  you  put  the 
name  of  your  State  on  your  show  bills  and  premium  lists, 
it  will  aid  materially  in  letting  people  know  whereabouts 
in  the  United  States  your  fair  is  to  be  held.  A'ou  may 
know  perfectly  well  in  what  State  your  Counly  is,  but 
those  at  a  distance  are  quite  puzzled  to  know  which 
among  the  many  AVashingtons,  Jacksons,  Hamiltons 
and  other  Counties  yours  is.  A  friend  recently  wrote 
that  he  expected  to  see  us  at  the  Rhode  Island  Fair, 
which  was  the  first  intimation  we  had  that  there  was  to 
be  a  fair  in  that  State.  Our  friends  in  little  Rhor  y  can 
get  up  a  good  fair  when  they  try— but  they  ought  to  let 
the  rest  of  the  world  know  about  it. 

Agricailtiiral  Colleges  in  tlie  South. 

— The  Agricultural  College  Land  Act,  passed  in  1862, 
contained  tlie  provision  that  all  the  States  that  wished  to 
avail  themselves  of  its  benefits  should  do  so  within  two 
years  after  its  passage.  There  were  good  reasons  wdiy 
the  Southern  States  could  not  accept  and  locate  the  land 
within  these  two  years,  and  now  that  the  obstacles  no 
longer  exist,  the  friends  of  agriculture  at  the  South  are 
looking  about  to  see  what  can  be  done.  We  do  not  see 
that  tliey  can  be  helped,  except  by  act  of  Congress,  and 
we  hope  that  at  the  proper  time  Congress  will  pass  such 
an  act,  as  will  enable  the  Southern  States  to  enjoy  the 
benefits  of  the  grant  in  common  with  the  Northern  Slates. 
Let  friends  of  agriculture  in  Congress  bear  this  in  mind. 

B®rofessor  Tiickei*— Am  Ag'ricmltural 
mditoi'  Appreciated.— A  great  many  of  the  readers 
of  the  Agriculturist  will  be  gratified  to  learn,  that  wliich 
has  given  the  fraternity  of  agricultural  editors  much 
pleasure,  namely  :  that  Lutlier  H.  Tucker,  Esq.,  of  the 
Country  Gentleman,  has  been  appointed  to  the  Chair  of 
Agriculture  at  the  Rutger’s  College,  New  Brunswick,  N. 
J.,  and  will  enter  upon  his  duties  the  approaching  winter. 

A  New  BSiom.'bmg'. — It  is  gratifying,  in  one 
sense,  to  receive  a  new  humbug,  as  so  many  of  the 
old  lottery  schemes  have  accumulated  that  we  shall 
be  obliged  to  sell  them  for  paper  stock.  This  new  Alan- 
ifestation  is  called  the  Prophylactical  .Star,  and  is  a  vile 
sheet.  While  it  condemns  some  vice.s,  it  panders  to 
others,  and  lias  the  editor’s  quack  medicine  as  the  basis 
of  the  whole.  How  any  sensible  man  can  be  taken  in  by 
such  nonsense  is  past  our  comprehension. 

Iffow  maisy  5mcli.es  im  a  ISuskel. — 

The  standard  bushel  of  the  United  States  contains  2150.4 
cubic  inches.  Tlie  “  Imperial  bushel  ”  is  about  68  cubic 
inches  larger,  being  2218.192  cubic  inches.  Any  box  or 
measure,  the  contents  of  which  are  equal  to  2150.4  cubic 
inches,  will  hold  a  bushel  of  grain.  In  measuring  fruit, 
vegetables,  coal  and  other  similar  substances,  one  fifth 
must  be  added.  In  other  words,  a  peck-measure  5  times 
even  full,  make  one  bushel.  The  usual  practice  is  “  to 
heap  the  measure.”  In  order  to  get  on  the  fifth  peck, 
measures  must  be  heaped  as  long  as  what  is  to  be 
measured' will  lie  on. 

A  Emit  House  iii  lietvoit. — We  learn 
that  a  fruit  preserving  house  has  been  erected  in  Detroit. 
We  have  heard  nothing  of  late  of  thosfe  it  was  proposed 
to  build  in  New  York. 


304: 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[October, 


York  B^ive  Stock  Markets. — 

Beef  Cattle  have  averaged  5,663  head  per  week,  of 
lather  poor  grades,  until  the  last  two  markets.  The 
latest  prices  stand:  good  to  extra,  IQ^cOlSc  per  lb. 
estimated  dressed  weight ;  common  to  medium,  13Xc® 
ISlaC;  poor  to  ordinary,  9c®12c. ..  .Milch  Cows  have 
come  in  pretty  freely,  T29  per  week.  Prices  are  little 
changed,  the  best  bringing  $85®$100  ;  and  other  grades, 
$35,'a)$75. . . .  Veal  Calves  have  been  in  higher  supply, 
1,.567  (ler  week.  Prices  for  very  good,  12c®13c  per  lb., 
live  weiglit ;  others,  according  to  quality,  Sl^cfSllXc  ■  •  ■  ■ 
.Sheep  and  Lambs  arrived  very  freely  at  first,  and  have 
averaged  21,332  per  week.  Prices  range  at  6Xc:®7Xc 
per  lb.,  live  weight ;  a  few  extras  at  8c,®8Xc.  Just  now 
spring  lambs  sell  at  $4.23tS$6  each  ...Live  Hogs  in  just 
fair  supply,  now  sell  at  12o®13Xc.  per  lb.,  live  weight. 

We  iuvite  Attcntiou  to  the  large  aud 
valuable  List  of  Premiums,  on  page  300.  Though  the 
cost  of  paper,  labor,  etc.,  continues  almost  at  the  highest 
point  yet  reached,  the  liberal  advertising  enables  the 
Publishers  to  set  aside  a  considerable  fund  to  distribute 
in  Premiums.  We  are  determined  to  make  this  Jour¬ 
nal  unsurpassed  and  unsurpassable,  in  the  amount  of 
useful  and  reliable  information  it  shall  give,  and  of 
course  desire  to  see  its  circulation  extend  to  every  house¬ 
hold.  And  while  our  friends  have  done,  and  continue  to 
do  good  service  in  making  the  paper  still  more  widely 
known,  we  hope  the  Premiums  will  lead  many  to  in¬ 
creased  exertions.  Almost  every  one  can  do  something 
in  this  way,  and  thus  obtain  a  desired  Premium  article, 
for  though  our  list  of  subscribers  embraces  nearly  a 
Hundred  Thousand  names,  there  are  still  for  every  one 
of  them,  forty  or  fifty  others  who  would  doubtless  be  the 
gainers  by  receiving  and  perusing  the  Agriculturist 
regularly.  It  will  be  noticed  also,  that  all  new  subscri¬ 
bers  litis  month,  receive  a  borius  of  two  months  free. 

Money  — “Julia,”  Norwich,  O. 

Man  cannot  make  honey;  no  recipe  for  Virgin  honey,  or 
any  other  kind  is  any  thing  but  a  fraud ;  the  article  made 
is  a  fraud  ;  and  the  man  who  sells  such  a  thing  is  a  cheat. 
His  “copy-right,”  //he  has  one,  covers  the  printed  mat¬ 
ter  which  contains  the  instructions,  etc.,  so  that  no  one 
else  can  use  the  same  printed  title  or  matter. 

3>on’&  15  «y  Cotton  Cioods  Now. — 

Not  if  it  can  possibly  be  avoided.  People  Inave  been 
economizing  for  a  long  time  in  the  purchase  and  use  of 
cotton  fabrics,  on  account  of  the  scarcity  and  high  price, 
but  it  is  ejpedient  to  pinch  along  a  few  weeks  or  months 
more.  These  fabrics  must  fall  In  price  ere  long,  and 
this  will  be  hastened  by  a  general  abstinence  from  pur¬ 
chasing.  The  truth  is,  that  with  the  present  abundance 
and  current  price  of  cotton  in  the  bale,  manufacturers 
can  make  good  profits,  and  yet  furnish  cotton  goods  for 
little  more  than  half  the  prices  they  now  receive.  They 
are  able  to  keep  up  prices  because  the  demand  is  in  ex¬ 
cess  of  the  immediate  supply.  A  few  lieavy  dealers  are 
aiding  the  speculation.  Let  people  generally  cease  to 
purchase,  except  in  small  and  absolutely  essential  quan¬ 
tities,  and  the  supply  will  soon  over-reach  the  demand, 
and  the  speculators  will  be  obliged  to  come  down  to 
fair  and  honest  rates. 

W^ine  Making’. — The  best  response  we  can 
make  to  inquiries  upon  this  subject,  is  to  give  the  process 
of  Dr.  J.  B.  Mottier  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  one  of  the  most 
experienced  and  successful  of  American  Wine  Makers: 
“  In  order  to  make  good  wine,  it  is  necessary  to  have  a 
good  cellar,  clean  casks,  press,  etc.  First  of  all,  have 
your  grapes  well  ripened  ;  gather  them  in  dry  weather, 
and  pick  out  carefully  all  the  unripe  berries,  and  all  the 
dried  and  damaged  ones  ;  then  mash  and  grind  them  with 
a  mill,  if  you  have  a  proper  mill  for  the  purpose.  Be 
careful  not  to  set  your  mill  so  close  as  to  mash  the  seed, 
for  they  will  give  a  bad  taste  to  the  wine.  If  you  wish 
to  have  wine  of  a  rose  color,  let  the  grapes  remain  in  a 
large  tub  a  few  hours,  before  pressing.  The  longer 
time  you  leave  the  grapes  without  pressing,  after  they  are 
mashed,  the  more  color  the  wine  will  have.  For  pres¬ 
sing  the  grapes,  any  press  will  answer,  provided  it  is 
kept  clean  and  sweet.  After  you  have  collected  the 
must  in  a  clean  tub  from  the  press,  have  it  transferred 
into  the  cask  in  the  cellar.  Fill  the  cask  within  ten 
inches  of  the  bung ;  then  place  one  end  of  a  siphon, 
made  for  that  purpose,  in  the  bung,  and  fix  it  air  light ; 
the  other  end  must  be  placed  in  a  bucket  containing  cold 
■water.  The  gas  then  passes  off  from  the  cask  without 
the  air  coming  in  contact  with  the  wine,  which  would 
destroy  that  fine  grape  flavor,  which  makes  our  Catawba 
so  celebrated.  When  properly  m;ide,  the  must  will 
undergo  fermentation.  Keep  the  end  of  the  siphon  that 
Is  in  the  water  full  four  inches  deep,  so  as  to  exclude 
air  from  the  wine.  When  it  has  fermented,  which  will 
be  in  fifteen  days,  fill  the  cask  with  the  same  kind  of 
wine,  and  bung  it  loosely  for  one  week  ;  then  make  it 


tight.  Nothing  more  is  needed  till  it  is  clear,  which  if 
all  is  right,  will  be  in  January  or  February  next.  Then, 
if  perfectly  clear,  rack  it  off  into  another  cask,  and  bung 
it  up  tightly  till  wanted.  If  the  wine  remains  in  the  cask 
till  fall— about  November— it  will  improve  by  racking 
again.  Be  sure  to  always  have  sweet,  clean  casks.  Do 
not  burn  too  much  brimstone  in  the  cask.  I  have  seen 
much  wine  injured  by  excessive  use  of  brimstone — 
generally  by  new  beginners.  For  my  part  I  make  little 
use  of  it.  You  c<an  make  different  qualities  of  wine  w  ith 
the  same  grape,  by  separating  the  different  runs  of  the 
same  pressing.  Tlie  first  run  is  the  finest,  if  you  want  to 
make  use  of  it  the  first  season  ;  but  it  will  not  keep  long 
without  losing  its  fine  qualities.  To  make  good,  sound 
wine,  that  will  improve  by  age,  the  plan  is  to  mix  all  up 
together.  The  very  last  run  will  make  it  rough,  but  it 
will  have  better  body  and  better  flavor  when  two  or  three 
years  old,  and  will  improve  for  a  number  of  years.  The 
first  run  will  not  be  good  after  two  or  three  years.  I 
have  fully  tested  the  different  ways  of  making  and  keep¬ 
ing  wine  these  last  twenty-five  years.” 

Mow  to  Malcc  t^ood  Cider.  —  Good, 
sound,  and  ripe  apples,  washed  clean,  are  the  first  and 
indispensable  requisite.  Specked  and  wormy  apples, 
and  those  dropped  from  the  trees  before  they  are  half 
ripe,  and  have  become  tough  and  insipid,  or  bitter, 
can  never  make  good  cider.  Indeed,  a  few  apples  of 
this  description  in  a  bushel  of  good  ones,  will  materially 
injure  the  good  flavor  of  all  the  cider.  Grind  the  apples 
to  a  fine  pulp,  without  crushing  the  seed,  which  will  im¬ 
part  a  bitter  taste  to  the  cider.  The  pomace  should  be 
kept  in  a  large  vat  or  tub,  for  at  letist  twenty-four  hours 
before  the  juice  is  expressed.  If  the  weather  is  so  cool 
that  fermentation  will  not  start,  it  will  bo  better  to  allow 
the  pomace  to  remain  four  or  five  days.  If  the  pomace 
is  pressed  soon  after  the  apples  are  ground,  the  juice  will 
often  be  very  insipid  and  light  colored,  and  always  des¬ 
titute  of  that  excellent  flavor  and  rich  color  which  good 
cider  possesses,  when  the  pomace  has  lain  a  few  days. 
In  the  usual  way  of  fermenting,  the  cider  after  becoming 
perfect,  soon  becomes  hard  and  contains  more  or  less 
vinegar.  This  can  be  avoided  by  taking  the  same  care 
with  cider  as  witli  wine.  Procure  a  tin,  glass,  or  india- 
rubber  tube,  and  fit  it  closely  in  a  hole  bored  through  a 
bung,  which  perfectly  fits  the  barrel.  The  bung  being 
placed  in  the  bung  hole,  the  other  end  of  the  tube 
is  placed  below  the  surface  of  water  contained  in  a  cup 
or  other  convenient  vessel.  If  all  is  tight,  the  gas  liberated 
in  fermentation  will  pass  through  the  tube,  and  bubble 
up  through  the  w  ater,  but  no  air  can  enter  the  barrel  as 
long  as  the  end  of  the  tube  is  covered  by  the  water. 
When  bubbles  cease  to  appear,  the  fermentation  is  com¬ 
plete,  and  the  cider  may  then  be  racked  off  into  clean 
barrels  and  bunged  tight.  The  fermentation  should  go 
on  slowly  in  a  cool  cellar. 

Al»oas4  oair  Advertisejnents. —  ISo’av 
far  Endorsed. — Frequent  explanations  are  required 
by  new  readers  and  new  advertisers.  Our  general  rule 
is,  to  exclude  all  parties  whom  we  would  not  ourselves 
patronize  if  we  chanced  to  want  the  things  they  adver¬ 
tise,  and  at  the  prices  asked.  Good  references  are 
required  from  advertisers  unknown  to  the  editors,  per¬ 
sonally,  or  by  their  general  reputation.  If  frequent  com¬ 
plaints  are  received  concerning  parties  we  supposed  to 
be  reliable,  we  quietly  refuse  their  advertisements  there¬ 
after,  preferring  to  err  on  the  right  side  where  our  read¬ 
ers  are  concerned.  We  do  not  undertake  to  always  judge 
for  our  readers,  but  aim  to  shut  out  from  the  advertising 
as  well  as  the  reading  columns  everything  deceptive. 
Hence  we  exclude  humbugs,  patent  medicines,  and  secret 
remedies  even  for  animals,  except  in  special  cases 
where  the  composition  is  fully  explained  to  us,  and  ap¬ 
proved.  The  above  rules  exclude 'one-half  to  three- 
fourths  of  the  best  paying  advertisements  offered  to  us. 
We  do  not,  however,  endorse  every  thing  advertised. 
Thus,  for  example,  several  well-known  journals,  of 
widely  different  character,  advertise  in  these  columns, 
as  the  Tribune,  Times,  Herald,  etc.  To  exclude  one 
and  admit  another,  would  be  an  expression  of  political 
opinion,  w  holly  out  of  place  in  this  journal.  No  one  is 
in  the  dark  in  regard  to  such  papers.  This  rule  also  ap¬ 
plies  to  various  farm  and  household  implements,  fertili¬ 
zers,  etc.  The  first  question  concerning  any  advertise¬ 
ment  is,  whether  the  advertiser  will  do  what  he  prom¬ 
ises  ;  and  second,  is  it  of  a  deceptive  character  ?  Good 
advertisers  always  like  to  know  how  large  a  circle  of 
wide-a-wake  enterprising  readers  they  meet  in  this 
journal ;  hence  we  request  every  one  ordering  or  sending 
for  circulars,  etc.,  to  always  state  where  an  advertise¬ 
ment  was  seen. 


Tlie  Sllinois  State  Fair,  held  at  Chi¬ 
cago,  Sept.  5th  to  9th,  was  remarkable  for  the  fine  show 
of  implements.  In  this,  probably,  it  was  never  sur¬ 
passed  by  any  fair  in  this  country.  The  show  of  cattle 


and  sheep  is  also  represented  as  exceedingly  fiiie.  Most 
unfortunately,  threatening  rain  one  day,  and  a  drenching 
Northeaster  the  next,  made  an  end  to  comfort  and  profits. 

'S'lie  New  Fug-laud  Agricultural 
Fair  was  held  at  Concord,  N.  H.,  the  first  w  eek  in 
September.  The  weather  was  fine,  and  the  attendance 
consequently  good.  The  show  was  very  superior  in 
cattle,  horses,  and  sheep.  The  newspaper  reports  give 
the  horse  interest  great  prominence,  but  this  department 
was  no  better  sustained  than  the  others  we  have  named. 
Short  Horns  and  Alderneys  were  present  in  good  numbers, 
and  of  great  excellence.  Ayrshires  were  show  n  in  fail 
numbers  and  of  great  excellence,  but  the  show  of  Devons, 
though  good,  seem  to  indicate  that  the  popularity  of 
this  excellent  and  beautiful  breed  is  on  the  wane  a  little. 
New  England  must  not  neglect  her  Devon  stock,  or  she 
w'ill  lose  the  fame  of  her  red  cattle,  both  for  working 
oxen  and  for  beef.  Besides  these,  the  fine  Dutch  cattle 
of  Mr.  Chenery,  and  the  Kerrys  of  several  breeders,  ex¬ 
cited  deserved  interest.  Sheep  were  represented  in  great 
variety,  and  of  good  quality,  and  the  various  classes  of 
fruits,  fiowers,  vegetables,  and  farm  produce  were  well 
sustained.  Discussions  were  held  in  the  evenings  at  the 
City  Hall,  presided  over  by  Dr.  Loring,  the  President. 

I'lie  New  Fug'luud.  Wool  ^wrowers’ 
Association,  held  a  meeting  at  Concord,  N.  H.,  at 
the  time  of  the  New  England  Fair,  and  propose  to  have 
a  grand  sliearing  festival  next  spring. 

New  York  State  Agricultural  Fair. 


The  Great  Fair  of  the  New-York  State  Agricultural 
Society  was  held  near  Utica,  the  second  week  in  Sep¬ 
tember.  The  whole  management  was  comfliendable  so 
far  as  we  observed,  the  grounds  being  large,  dry,  and 
well  arranged,  the  builflings  and  tents  commodious,  and 
every  thing  was  conducted  with  dignity,  system  and 
promptness.  If  in  this  the  society  is  running  in  the  ruts 
of  old  usage,  we  hope  she  may  never  run  out  of  them. 

The  show  was  on  the  whole  one  of  great  excellence, 
the  principal  features  being:  an  unusually  full  and  good 
exhibition  of  horses,  in  their  various  classes  ;  the  show 
of  sheep,  including  many  Merinos  from  Vermont ;  the 
Dairy  department,  especially  the  great  show  of  Factory- 
made  cheese,  and  the  magnificent  display  of  Farm  Im¬ 
plements  of  all  kinds.  The  show  of  neat  cattle  was  only 
moderate  ;  that  of  swine  good  in  breeds  of  large  size  ; 
that  of  fruits  and  flowers  excellent  in  many  particulars, 
but  not  equal  to  that  of  last  year.  In  vegetables,  and 
garden  and  farm  produce,  we  were  disappointed.  In 
far.m  hardware  and  small  tools,  there  was  a  very  superior 
and  instructive  display.  The  show  of  cheese  dairy 
furniture  was  a  very  prominent  feature,  and  the 
various  exhibitors  competed  closely  in  the  excellence  of 
their  wares — vats,  heaters,  curd-straining  tables,  milk 
weighing  vessels,  cheese  hoops,  boxes,  etc.  We  have 
only  room  for  a  very  general  report  of  the  Fair  now,  but 
shall  take  early  occasion  to  discuss  the  various  improve¬ 
ments  in  machinery,  etc.,  in  the  Agriculturist.  During 
three  evenings  of  the  fair,  discussions  were  held  in  the 
Common  Council  Chamber.  The  first  evening,  the  sub¬ 
ject  was:  Ought  pastures  for  dairy  purposes  to  be  kept 
permanently  in  grass,  or  occasionally  taken  up  and  cul¬ 
tivated  with  other  crops  ?  Mr.  X.  A.  Willard,  Agricul¬ 
tural  editor  of  the  Utica  Herald,  opened  the  discussion 
favoring  permanent  pastures,  and  it  was  continued  with 
much  interest.  On  the  second  evening,  the  discussion, 
which  was  opened  by  Mr.  J.  Stanton  Gould,  was  upon 
the  best  time  for  cutting  grass,  and  the  best  method  of 
making  hay.  The  third  evening’s  discussion  was  upon 
the  cultivation  of  tobacco,  and  was  a  plea  in  favor  of  the 
crop,  showing  the  great  profits  attending  its  cultivation, 
etc.,  and  seemed  based  upon  views  which  the  past  dozen 
years  and  an  increasing  knowledge  of  the  principles  of 
good  cultivation  have  exploded,  in  the  Connecticut 
River  Valley,  where  the  best  “seed  leaf”  is  raised. 
These  discussions  would  have  been  much  more  largely 
attended  had  they  been  held  in  a  room  which  was  not 
close  and  crowded,  and  poorly  supplied  with  seats. 
They  are  a  valuable  feature,  and  ought  to  be  well  sus¬ 
tained.  The  annual  address  was  delivered  by  Hon. 
Glenni  W.  Scofield,  of  Peimsylvania,  a  rambling  dis¬ 
course  on  agricultural  knowledge,  progress,  education, 
government  aids,  etc.,  concluding  with  a  grand  tilt 
against  the  study  of  Latin  and  Greek.  Mr.  S.  wants  to 
have  one  professor  of  agricuiture  attached  to  each  col¬ 
lege  in  the  country,  and  says  “  to  make  room  for  these 
additional  studies,  the  Latin  and  Greek  languages  must 
be  dropped.”  True  scholarship  is  being  better  and  better 
appreciated  every  year  in  this  country,  and  the  absurdity 
of  this  proposition,  considering  the  great  interest  in 
agricultural  colleges,  and  the  general  correct  views  in 
regard  to  education,  liberal,  professional,  scientific  and 
technical,  which  prevail,  is  only  matched  by  its  boldness. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


305 


Fruit  Picking,  and  Fruit  Pickers. 

The  choicest  spccimeus  of  pears  and  apples 
often  grow  on  the  ends  of  long,  slender  branch¬ 
es,  which  will  not  support  a  ladder,  nor  a  man 
While  plucking  the  fruit.  When  long  ladders 
are  leaned  against  the  outsides  of  trees,  many  of 
the  small  limbs  and  fruit-buds  are  broken  off. 
Sometimes  pear  trees  grow  so  tali  that  the 
limbs  are  not  strong  enough  to 
bear  a  small  boy  in  the  tree,  nor 
on  a  ladder  resting  against  it, 
unless  it  is  supported  with  guy 
ropes.  An  orchard  ladder  should 
have  its  lower  ends  shod  with 
iron,  in  the  form  of  a  wedge,  to 
enter  the  gro^md  readily,  and  to 
hold  the  lower  end  when  putting 
it  up  and  down.  (See  fig.  2.)  Set 
the  ladder  nearly  perpendicular, 
and  stay  it  with  two  guy  ropes 
from  the  top  of  the  ladder  fast- 
j’ij,-.  a. — FOOT  ened  to  trees,  or  stakes,  or  fences, 
OF  LADDEK.  giiowu  ill  fig.  1.  The  ropes 
need  not  be  larger  than  a  common  clotlies  line. 
A  man  can  ascend  to  the  very  top  of  a  long  lad¬ 
der  secured  in  this  Avay,  and  pluck  half  a  bushel 
or  more  of  fruit  with  entire  safety.  A  large  bag 
suspended  on  one  shoulder,  and  under  the  arm 
on  the  opposite  side,  is  much  more  convenient 
than  a  basket,  as  there  is  no  danger  of  letting 
the  fruit  drop,  as  with  a  basket ;  and  both  hands 
are  always  free,  whether  the  picker  be  in  the 


tree  or  on  a  ladder.  If  fruit  be  borne  upon  long, 
slender  branches,  by  drawing  the  ends  inward 


or  downward,  as  repre¬ 
sented  in  the  illustration, 
all  may  be  reached  for 
several  feet  on  each  side 
of  the  ladder.  A  frait- 
picker  having  a  handle 
4  or  5  feet  long,  will  some¬ 
times  be  found  conven¬ 
ient  for  taking  that  which 
can  not  be  reached  other¬ 
wise.  The  number  of 
styles  of  fruit  pickers  is 
great,  and  much  inge¬ 
nuity  has  been  expended 
on  more  or  less  compli¬ 
cated  contrivances.  With 
this  as  with  most  other 
implements,  the  simplest 
is  the  best.  We  give  a 
figure  of  one  (fig.  3)  which 
can  be  easily  made,  and 
which  will  accomplish  the 
purpose  as  well  as  those 
which  have  a  great  deal 
of  machinery  about  them. 
A  stiff  wire  is  bent  in  the 
form  here  shown,  to  which 
a  bag  is  attached,  and  the 
whole  is  fastened  to  a 
handle,  which  may  have 
a  hook  near  the  picker  or 
on  the  other  end.  In 
bending  the  wire,  the  lip 
or  projection  to  the  ring 
should  be  made  so  nar¬ 
row  that  a  small  apple 
can  not  slip  through.  A  similar  lip  is  form¬ 
ed  by  the  manner  in  which  the  ends  of  the  wire 
are  fastened,  one  on  each  side  of  the  handle. 
With  this  picker,  the  ring  is  put  over  the  apple, 
and  by  drawing  or  pushing  the  stem  passes  into 
one  of  the  lips  and  the  fruit  falls  into  the  bag. 

■»!»  i»  I  mn^Bii  I  ■ 


The  Bowline  Knot,  Farmers  Knot,  etc, 

One  of  the  first  things  a  boy  learns  when  he 
goes  to  sea,  is  to  tie  a  bowline  (pronounced 
“  bolin,”)  for  it  is  the  knot  in  most  constant  use, 
and  to  tie  it  quickly  is  very  important.  This 
knot  will  bear  all  the  strain  which  can  be  put 
upon- the  rope,  and  never  “jam” — that  is,  be¬ 
come  so  tight  that  it  cannot  be  easily  loosened — 
in  fact  just  as  easily  and  quickly  as  it  can  be 
tied.  A  loop  in  a  rope  is  called  a  “  bight,”  and 
the  part  which  is  fast,  or  not  used  in  lying  the 
knot,  is  the  “  standing  part.”  To  make  a  bow-  I 


line  knot,  take  the  end  of  tlie  rope  in  the  right 
hand  and  lay  it  upon  the  standing  part  {A), 
which  is  held  in  the  left,  as  shown  in  fig.  1 ; 


4.— DOUBLE  BOWLINE  KNOT, 

then  turn  the  end  under  A,  and  up  through  the 
bight  (15),  which,  the  end-part  remaining  straight, 
will  cause  the  standing  part  to  make  a  bight  ((7) 
around  it,  as  in  fig.  2.  Then  pass  the  end  under 
the  standing  part,  and,  following  its  own  part, 
back  through  the  bight  G\  leave  it  loose,  as  in 
fig.  3.  This  knot  is  of  use  often  where  a  rope 
is  to  be  made  fast  to  a  post,  or  to  another  rope, 
or  where  two  ropes  are  to  be  tied  together 
temporarily,  especially  if  they  are  of  different 
sizes,  a  bowline  knot  being  tied  in  each  rope, 
(the  bights  {B)  passing  each  through  the  other), 
A  Bunning  Bowline  is  one  which  is  tied  around 
the  standing  part  of  the  rope,  and  so  a  slip-noose 
is  formed.  A  bowline  may  also  be  tied  with  the 
bight  of  a  rope,  (fig.  4) ;  that  is,  in  the  slack  of  a 
rope  not  using  either  end.  The  bight  is  taken 
in  the  hand,  like  the  end,  as  above  described ; 
it  is  laid  over  the  standing  parts  (doubled),  the 
bights  B  and  G  are  formed  in  the  same  way  as 
with  the  single  rope,  the  end  being  passed  up 
through  G.  Now  this  end,  which  is  a  bight  or 
loop,  is  opened  and  passed  around  the  knot,  so 
as  to  lie  (single)  under  the  standing  parts,  just 
like  the  end  bight  D,  which  is  shown  in  fig.  3. 

The  Farmer’s  Knot  (fig.  5).— This  is  a  capi¬ 
tal  knot  for  tying  twm  ropes  together  when  one 
can  use  only  very  short 
ends,  or  for  fastening  two 
straps  together,  or  a  strap 
to  a  rope,  or  either  to  a 
chain.  Two  bights  or 
loops  are  made,  one  (a)  is 
passed  through  the  other 
(5);  then  the  end  of  the 
outer  bight  is  put  through 
the  inner  one,  and  all 
drawn  tight.  The  end  of 
the  inner  bight  should 
come  against  the  stand¬ 
ing  part  of  the  outer  bight 
and  be  jammed  by  it; 
thus  the  knot  will  never 
slip  and  will  not  jam  very 
hard.  Solon  Kobinson 
calls  this  the  “farmer’s 
knot,”  and  as  we  do  not 
find  it  described  in  among 
the  seamen’s  knots  in  Mr.  Fig.  6. 

Blunt’s  '■'■Sheet  Anchor f 
the  farmers  may  as  well  lay  claim  to  the  name. 

A  Half-Mitch,  seized  to  make  an  Eye.  When 
an  eye  [see  page  276  (September),  fig.  2]  is 
wanted  temporarily  in  the  end  of  a  rope,  pass 
the  end  once  arotmd  the  standing  part,  and 


-  HALF  HITCU 
SEIZED  FOR  EYE. 


306 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


[October, 


through  the  bight  (which  makes  a  “  half-hitch,”) 
and  then  “  seize,”  as  shown  in  the  figure.  This 
is  done  by  binding  the  end  securely  to  the 
standing  part  by  rope  yarn,  or  a  stout  cord. 
When  a  strain  is  put  upon  such  an  eye,  it  comes 
almost  altogether  upon  the  hitch  and  not  upon 
the  “  seizing.”  In  case  the  rope  is  to  be  sub¬ 
jected  to  very  heavy  and  continuous  strains,  it 
is  well  to  make  two  half-hitches  instead  of  one. 
- •-< — «-•- - — 

How  to  Make  a  Good  Barnyard. 


Several  things  are  essential  to  render  a  barn¬ 
yard  a  good  one.  It  must  be  so  constructed  that 
water  from  any  source  will  not  accumulate  in  it. 
It  must  not  be  uncomfortably  wet  or  disagreea¬ 
bly  muddy  for  stock.  The  surface  must  also  be 
firm,  so  that  coarse  manure  will  not  be  pressed 
down  into  the  soft  earth,  and  thus  make 
hard  pitching.  These  are  the  main  requisites. 

Now,  the  first  thing  is  to  provide  for  carrying 
off  the  surplus  water  that  will  be  liable  to  find 
its  way  among  the  manure.  Cut  a  good  ditch 
entirely  around  the  yard,  not  less  than  30  inch¬ 
es  deep,  and  fill  it  with  tiles  if  they  can  be  ob¬ 
tained,  or  with  plank,  as  illustrated  on  another 
page.  Stones  will  be  just  as  good  to  drain  the 
soil  and  carry  off  the  water ;  but  the  drains  are 
more  liable  to  be  filled  up  by  rats.  This  drain 
will  keep  the  ground  dry  on  each  side  of  it,  and 
will  not  carry  off  the  liquid  manure.  Conduct 
all  the  water  by  eave-troughs  from  the  roof  of 
the  barn  and  sheds  into  this  underdrain. 

The  next  step  is  to  grade  the  yard,  either  by 
hauling  earth  away,  leveling  off  the  knolls,  or 
by  drawing  in  compact  earth  to  fill  up  the  de¬ 
pressions.  The  surface  of  the  yard  should  al¬ 
ways  descend  gradually  from  the  barn  and 
sheds.  There  ought  also  to  be  buildings,  or 
cheap  sheds  on  every  side  of  the  yard.  Exca¬ 
vate  at  the  lowest  part  so  that  liquid  from  all 
parts  of  the  yard  will  descend  to  that  place, 
and  there  sink  a  sugar  hogshead,  and  cover 
it  with  plank,  so  that  nothing  can  fall  into  it. 
Then,  set  a  cheap  pump  (see  page  213,  July 
Agriculturist^  in  this  hogshead,  pump  up  the 
liquid,  and  send  it  in  board  or  bark  troughs 
among  the  solid  manure  in  any  part  of  the 
yard.  This  will  be  a  perfect  security  against 
its  heating  and  becoming  “  fire-fanged.” 

The  next  job  will  be  to  pave  the  whole,  or  a 
portion  of  it.  Stones  of  various  sizes  and  forms 
may  be  used.  Flat  stones  three  or  four  feet 
square  are  objectionable,  for  heavy  cattle  are 
liable  to  slip  on  large  stones  so  as  to  in¬ 
jure  themselves.  Were  they  to  slip  not  more 
than  two  feet,  there  would  be  little  danger  of 
harm.  Some  parts  may  be  paved  with  boul¬ 
ders  of  a  certain  size,  and  then  those  of  anoth¬ 
er  size  may  be  used  in , another  place.  Large 
stones  and  small  ones  may  be  placed  side  by 
side,  by  excavating  a  little  for  the  large  ones, 
so  that  the  surfaces  of  each  will  be  of  equal 
bight.  Stretch  a  line  across  the  yard  and  lay 
the  top  of  each  row  of  stones  even  with  the 
line.  In  this  way  there  will  be  little  or  no  diffi¬ 
culty  in  making  the  surface  of  the  pavement 
even.  When  laying  the  stones,  the  workman 
needs  a  trowel  to  place  sand,  or  fine  gravel  be¬ 
neath  thin  or  small  stones,  to  raise  them  up  to 
the  line,  and  a  rammer  made  of  a  billet  of  hard 
wood  with  an  iron  ring  like  that  of  a  beetle  on 
the  bottom  of  it,  to  drive  those  stones  that 
are  too  high,  down  even  with  the  line. 

After  the  paving  is  finished,  spread  sand, 
gravel,  or  finely-pulverized  clay  all  over  the  pave¬ 
ment  and  work  it  into  the  interstices.  This  will 
make  a  barnyard  that  every  good  farmer  will  1 


be  proud  of.  On  many  farms  there  are  loose 
stones  enough  lying  in  the  fields  to  pave  several 
yards.  Where  stones  are  scarce,  the  sur¬ 
face  may  be  covered  with  gravel  or  clay,  or 
compact  earth,  instead  of  stones.  Where  tim¬ 
ber  is  cheap,  a  yard  can  be  paved  with  wood, 
by  sawing  off  logs,  five  or  six  inches  long,  with 
a  drag  saw,  and  placing  them  on  the  end. 
This  would  make  a  pavement  that  could  not 
fail  to  please  the  most  incorrigible  faultfinder 
or  grumbler.  Hemlock,  pine,  oak  of  all  kinds, 
and  many  other  kinds  of  wood  sawed  into  pav¬ 
ing  blocks  and  well  tarred  on  the  lower  ends 
with  coal  tar,  would  last  many  years,  always 
making  a  very  smooth  and  agreeable  surface  to 
work  on,  and  not  slippery  for  animals.  It 
would  also  hold  liquid  manure  weH. 


How  to  Increase  the  Manure  Pile. 


The  soil  unmanured,  will  often  produce  good 
crops  for  a  year,  or  two,  or  more,  and  then  it 
demands  rest,  in  order  to  recuperate,  and  gain 
soluble,  ash  ingredients  enough  for  another  se¬ 
ries  of  crops.  This  period  of  rest  it  was  early 
found  might  be  much  shortened  by  frequently 
stirring  the  soil  by  the  plow  and  harrow ;  and 
moreover,  it  became  known  that  the  addition 
of  certain  substances  to  the  soil,  such  as  the 
dung  of  animals,  the  ashes  of  trees  and  plants, 
etc.,  not  only  operated  in  the  same  way,  but  en¬ 
tirely  did  away  with  the  necessity  of  fallowing. 
Thus,  long  in  advance  of  the  philosophy  which 
we  now  recognise  as  accounting  for  these  facts, 
farmers  knew  what  would  restore  lost  fertility, 
and  what  course  of  treatment  would  keep  up 
their  land.  Man,  indeed,  does  nothing  without 
some  kind  of  a  reason,  and  so  in  old  times  the 
farmers  had  a  philosophy  which  answered  as 
well  for  them  as  ours  does  for  us,  so  long  as  it 
did  not  conflict  with  known  facts.  Now-a-days 
we  have  so  many  facts,  and  they  are  so  well  sys¬ 
tematized,  that  our  philosophy  must  be  very 
nearly  right  in  the  main,  though  still  there  are 
many  points  upon  which  the  Doctors  disagree. 

Manures  supply  to  the  soil  what  the  plants 
require  as  food,  and  that  which  other  crops  may 
have  removed.  They  also  cause  chemical  action 
to  take  place,  by  means  of  which  plant-food,  in 
the  soil  but  not  available  to  the  plant,  becomes 
soluble,  or  otherwise  available.  Besides,  they 
produce  other  desirable  effects,  such  as  making 
the  soil  more  friable,  porous,  absorbent  of  moist¬ 
ure,  and  more  tenacious,  or  less  so,  etc.  Good 
tillage  without  manure  may  produce  several  of 
these  effects,  especially  in  conjunction  with  the 
action  of  the  air,  rains,  sunshine,  frosts,  etc.,  and 
it  always  greatly  assists  the  action  of  manure. 

In  all  civilized  countries  in  which  the  soil  has 
been  long  enough  under  cultivation  to  show  a 
decline  in  fertility,  manure  is  valued  for  all 
the  reasons  just  enumerated.  The  questions 
of  “  Inquirer,”  of  Barrysburg,  Pa.,  whose  letter 
we  quote,  are  to  the  point.  He  says : 

“  I  am  anxious  to  know  in  what  way  to  in¬ 
crease  my  manure  heap.  I  have  only  some  30 
acres  of  land,  and  am  working  every  foot  of  it. 
Of  straw,  I  have  not  even  enough  to  bed  my 
stock  with.  I  keep  five  horses,  two  cows,  and 
generally  feed  two  oxen  through  the  winter. 
My  manure  heap  is  nearly  always  smoking,  be¬ 
ing  so  hot,  and  turns  gray,  or  looks  mouldy  in¬ 
side.  How  shall  I  proceed  to  prevent  it,  and 
what  shall  I  do  for  materials  ?  Spent  tan-bark 
I  can  get  three  miles  off;  sawdust  none  about 
here ;  I  can  get  but  a  veiy  small  quantity  of 
leaves,  and  for  these  I  have  to  pay  very  high ; 
muck  I  have  none  on  my  land,  and  have  noth¬ 


ing  indeed,  but  gravelly  soil.  Will  some  one 
please  give  me  advice  as  to  what  I  am  to  do  ?” 

It  is  now  autumn,  and  our  friend  will  not  do 
well  to  collect  much,  if  any,  vegetable  matter 
which  can  contain  weed  seeds  in  any  consider¬ 
able  quantity.  Still  it  is  probable  that  a  good 
deal  of  such  things,  potato  tops,  swamp  grass, 
rushes,  reeds,  bogs,  etc.,  may  be  obtained.  His 
soil  is  gravelly ;  were  it  not  for  this,  we  would 
recommend  him  to  use  good  loamy,  or  even 
sandy  soil,  for  bedding  for  his  stock.  Nothing 
is  better  to  bed  cattle,  or  horses  upon,  than 
about  a  barrowful  of  soft  loam,  free  from  stones 
and  sticks,  covered  with  a  very  slight  spreading 
of  straw  or  other  litter.  The  litter  may  be 
renewed  daily  and  raked  off,  with  the  dung  and 
the  soil  as  often  as  it  becomes  saturated  with 
urine,  or  otherwise  defiled  or  wasted — say  once 
a  week  for  cows,  and  twice  for  all  male  animals. 
This  will  not  only  increase  the  bulk  of  the  ma¬ 
nure  heap,  and  check  the  fire-fanging,  but  it 
will  greatly  improve  its  quality,  really  more 
than  our  philosophy  with  present  data  can  ac¬ 
count  for.  If  it  is  possible  for  Inquirer  to  get 
such  soil,  we  say  by  all  means  use  it ;  if  not,  let 
him  go  out  into  the  highways  and  hedges,  and 
trim  off  the  sods,  pare  off  the  turf,  clean  out  the 
roadside  ditches,  pools,  etc.,  and  cart  it  all  in  to 
swell  the  manure  heap.  The  best  way  to  use 
it  is,  having  it  dry,  to  mingle  it  daily  with 
the  manure  in  the  stall;  if  this  cannot  be 
done,  then  make  the  mixture  when  the  stables 
are  cleaned  out,  using  uniform  quantities  daily 
in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  manure  made. 
As  for  the  heap,  mouldy,  heated,  and  fire-fanged, 
as  it  is  described,  the  only  thing  to  do  with  that 
is  to  work  it  all  over,  repiling  it  with  uniform 
square  sides  and  a  flat  top.  It  should  be  sup¬ 
ported  on  rails,  or  any  other  contrivance  for 
good  drainage,  so  that  water  may  be  pumped 
over  it  and  run  through  into  a  sunk  hogshead, 
or  tank  of  some  kind.  When  piling  up  such  a 
heap,  mix  in  soil,  muck,  straw,  or  something  of 
the  kind,  and  tread  it  down  hard  on  the  edges, 
that  they  may  not  diy  so  much  as  otherwise. 

—  ■ — — I  » - 

Collecting  and  Grinding  Bones. 


Thousands  of  tons  of  bones  are  collected 
every  year  in  Chicago,  Buffalo,  and  other  large 
cities,  and  forwarded  to  New  York,  and  other 
seaports  where  the  hardest  ones  are  picked  out 
to  be  cut  into  buttons,  knife  handles,  etc.,  and 
the  rest  are  ground  and  exported  to  Europe,  to 
increase  the  productiveness  of  foreign  soils,  so 
that  they  will  raise  more  grain  and  not  need  to 
buy  ours.  Why  not  apply  the  bones  to  our 
soil  and  sell  them  the  corn  ?  If  it  will  pay  to 
transport  bones  from  our  Western  cities  to  Eu¬ 
rope,  surely  those  farmers  near  such  places  can 
make  it  profitable  to  collect,  grind,  and  apply 
them  to  their  soils,  as  they  have  no  freight  to  pay. 

Formerly  the  expense  of  dissolving  bones  or 
grinding  them  was  so  great  as  to  deter  most 
farmers  from  attempting  to  make  any  use  of 
them  as  a  fertilizer.  But  as  they  can  now  be 
reduced  to  dust  at  a  trifling  expense,  every  farm¬ 
er  should  be  careful  to  save  bones  and  grind 
them,  for  keeping  his  soil  in  a  good  state  of  fer- 
tilitJ^  Those  bones  that  have  not  been  much 
boiled  are  more  valuable  than  those  which  have 
been  boiled  for  a  long  time  to  extract  all  the 
grease.  The  large  bones  and  joints  are  full  of 
marrowy,  nitrogenous  matter,  which  is  valuable 
to  apply  to  the  soil.  If  therefore,  farmers  will 
grind  bones  themselves,  or  have  them  ground, 
they  will  be  sure  of  a  much  better  article  of  ma¬ 
nure  than  can  generally  be  obtained  in  market. 


1866.1 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


307 


There  are  many  excellent  bone  mills  now  dis¬ 
tributed  through  the  country  for  grinding  grain. 
There  is  the  Joice’s  Starr  Mill,  the  Young  Giant, 
and  the  new  style  of  bark  mill,  all  of  which  will 
grind  bones  with  one  horse,  quite  fast.  We 
know  of  one  farmer  who  has  collected  over  30 
tons  of  bones  and  ground  them  with  one  of  the 
Joice’s  Starr  Mills.  We  have  used  the  same 
kind  of  mill,  filling  the  hopper  with  the  largest 
bones  and  skulls  that  could  be  found,  and  they 
were  ground  rapidly  and  most  satisfactorily. 

As  shin  and  thigh  bones  are  full  of  marrow, 
we  adjust  the  mill  to  let  them  through  very 
coarse.  As  they  come  through,  the  large  hard 
pieces  are  picked  out  by  hand  and  put  through 
the  second  time,  and  ground  as  fine  as  desira¬ 
ble.  If  the  mill  is  adjusted  to  grind  fine  before 
the  marrow  is  separated  from  the  hard  parts  of 
the  bone,  the  mill  is  liable  to  clog. 

The  mills  alluded  to  will  grind  bones  about 
as  small  as  kernels  of  oats.  Of  course,  the  ef¬ 
fect  of  such  coarse  “bone  dust”  will  not  be 
so  apparent  the  first  year,  as  if  it  were  finer. 
But  the  fertilizing  matter  will  be  in  the  soil,  and 
will  promote  the  growth  of  crops  for  several 
successive  seasons.  There  are  many  of  the  old- 
fashioned  bark  mills  now  in  use,  that  will  grind 
bones  pretty  well.  This  work  might  be  per¬ 
formed  in  the  winter,  when  the  grinding  would 
cost  comparatively  little.  Our  practice  has  been 
to  mingle  about  five  bushels  of  ground  bone 
with  the  same  quantity  of  dry  muck  or  mould, 
and  two  bushels  of  gypsum.  This  makes  a 
rich  and  most  excellent  top  dressing. 

- — > -  - - - 

How  to  Dig  Potatoes. 

When  potatoes  grow  several  inches  below  the 
surface  of  a  heavy  soil,  digging  them  with  a 
hoe,  or  potato  hook  is  fatiguing  labor.  It  is 
more  laborious  to  dig  with  hoes  than  with 
hooks ;  and  more  than  this,  the  edge  of  a  hoe 
will  wound  potatoes  more  than  a  hook.  We 
have  dug  with  hoes,  hooks,  spading  forks, 
spades  and  shovels,  and  for  digging  in  heavy 
soil,  w’e  like  a  good  fork  better  than  anything 
else,  particularly  when  the  potatoes  are  unusual¬ 
ly  deep.  The  sharp  corners  of  the  tines  both  of 
forks  and  hooks  should  be  filed  oif  smooth, 
so  that  they  will  not  break  the  skin  of  potatoes. 
When  digging  with  a  fork,  thrust  the  tines  into 
the  ground  perpendicularly,  as  close  to  the  hill 
as  maybe,  and  be  outside  of  all  the  potatoes. 
Now  grasp  all  the  tops  with  one  hand,  and  pull 
gently  upwards,  as  the  other  pries  out  the  po¬ 
tatoes,  tops  and  all.  If  they  are  not  spread 
out  much  in  the  hill,  nearly  every  one  will  come 
to  the  surface  at  the  first  thrust  of  the  fork,  when 
they  may  be  shaken  from  the  vines  between  two 
rows.  A  good  spade,  carefully  handled,  is  al¬ 
most  equal  to  a  fork  for  digging. 

When  digging  with  a  hook,  press  the  tines 
their  entire  length  into  the  ground  close  to  the 
hill,  and  with  one  motion,  draw  out  the  whole 
hill,  and  then  remove  the  tops,  which  should 
never  be  removed  until  the  potatoes  are  lifted, 
as  the  long  roots  often  bring  out  a  large  potato 
that  would  otherwise  not  have  been  found. 
When  digging  with  hoes,  instead  of  striking  the 
blade  directly  in  the  top  of  a  hill,  as  many  do, 
haul  off  the  dirt  gently  until  the  potatoes  are  al¬ 
most  laid  bare;  then  bury  the  blade  of  the  hoe 
its  whole  length  into  the  soil  and  draw  thenr  all 
out  at  once.  When  digging  with  hoes,  it  is 
better  to  pull  the  tops  first. 

The  most  expeditious  and  easiest  way  is  to  do 
most  of  the  digging  with  a  plow.  Let  the  team 
travel  astride  of  a  row,  and  run  a  Im'ge  plow 


just  deep  enough  to  turn  out  the  lowest  tubers. 
The  plow  must  not  be  run  through  the  hills,  but 
at  one  side  as  closely  as  possible  and  not  leave 
any  potatoes.  By  plowing  around  a  land,  10  or 
12  rows  wide,  there  will  be  little  danger  of  cov¬ 
ering  them  with  dirt  after  they  have  been  plow¬ 
ed  out.  After  a  row  has  been  thrown  out  with 
a  plow,  a  man  will  haul  them  out  with  a  potato 
hook  very  fast. 

- -  I  —  — - - 

Exterminating  Charlock,  or  Field  Mustard. 

{SiTiapis  arvensis.) 

We  know  of  no  weed  in  the  grain-growing 
districts  of  New  York,  that  is  so  difficult  to  ex¬ 
terminate  as  this.  Canada  thistles,  daisies  and 
dock,  can  be  eradicated  with  facility,  compared 
with  this.  Field  mustard  is  an  annual  plant, 
having  leaves  like  the  turnip,  and  bright  yellow 
flowers.  It  starts  from  the  seed  at  any  time  be¬ 
tween  early  spring  and  late  autumn.  The  plants 
grow  rapidly,  and  produce  a  large  number  of 
seeds  in  a  short  time.  In  ordinary  seasons,  two 
crops  will  mature  on  the  same  field,  but  winter 
kills  every  plant.  The  seeds  will  remain  in  the 
ground  a  life  time,  without  losing  their  vitality. 
We  have  cultivated  a  field  sixteen  successive 
seasons,  allowing  no  mustard  to  go  to  seed; 
but  deep  plowing  brought  seed  to  the  surface 
the  seventeenth  year,  so  that  the  ground  was 
nearly  covered  with  the  young  plants. 

When  wheat,  rye,  barley,  oats,  flax,  and  such 
crops  are  raised,  if  there  is  mustard  seed  in  the 
soil,  it  will  appear,  and  will  ripen  its  seed  be¬ 
fore  the  crops.  Much  of  the  seed  will  shell  out 
while  the  grain  is  being  harvested.  If  it  should 
not  be  covered  with  earth  sufficiently  deep  to 
promote  vegetation,  it  will  remain  until  the 
next  season,  or  until  the  moisture  and  heat 
happen  to  be  just  right  to  cause  germination. 

There  are  two  things  indispensably  necessary 
to  exterminate  mustard.  One  is  to  allow  no 
seed  to  mature ;  and  the  other  is  to  cultivate 
such  crops  as  will  induce  all  the  seed  to  vege¬ 
tate,  that  the  plants  may  be  destroyed  before 
they  go  to  seed.  Grain  having  mustard  seed 
among  it,  should  never  be  fed  to  stock  until 
after  it  is  ground  into  meal. 

When  mustard  comes  up  very  thick,  harrow 
the  ground  thoroughly,  as  soon  as  the  crop  of 
grain  has  been  removed.  After  a  few  weeks 
have  elapsed,  harrow  it  again.  This  will  destroy 
most  of  the  young  plants  in  the  seed  leaf. 
After  this,  use  a  cultivator  instead  of  a  harrow. 
These  repeated  scarifyings  will  cover  the  seed 
and  bring  others  near  the  surface  so  that  a  large 
proportion  will  vegetate  and  die  before  winter. 
The  next  season  harrow  the  ground  early  in  the 
spring  so  as  to  start  a  new  crop  of  the  seed. 
Plow  it  soon  after  the  time  for  planting  Indian 
corn.  Harrow  again  in  about  two  weeks. 
After  another  fortnight,  plow  and  sow  buck¬ 
wheat.  As  soon  as  the  buckwheat  is  harvested 
harrow  the  ground  again.  The  next  season 
manure  well,  and  raise  a  hoed  crop ;  and  allow 
no  mustard  to  go  to  seed.  Next  sow  a  crop  of 
winter  grain.  The  mustard  may  now  appear 
quite  thick.  But  none  of  it  will  have  time  to 
ripen  before  winter,  when  every  plant  will  die. 
A  limited  number  of  plants  will  appear  the 
next  season  among  the  standing  grain.  When 
they  are  in  full  blossom,  let  every  one  be  pulled. 
A  careful,  faithful  man  will  be  able  to  pull  all 
the  mustard  in  a  day  that  will  appear  on  sever¬ 
al  acres,  after  the  soil  has  been  treated  in  the 
manner  recommended.  After  this  any  kind  of 
grain  maybe  raised.  But  for  more  than  twenty 
yeai'S,  mustard  will  come  up  every  season,  and 


must  be  pulled  up  before  it  ripens.  This  is  the 
only  way  that  our  cultivable  fields  can  be  rid 
of  this  pestiferous  plant.  Incessant  vigilance 
from  year  to  year  will  exterminate  it  effectually. 


Breaking  Down  and  Cutting  Broom  Corn. 


Abram  Stokes,  of  Ulster  Co.,  N.  Y.,  commu¬ 
nicates  his  way  of  breaking  down  and  gather¬ 
ing  Broom  corn,  and  manner  of  threshing  the 
seed.  He  writes:  “I  never  break  any  brush 
down  that  does  not  lop  all  the  wisps  one  way. 
I  think  it  is  best  to  break  the  stalks  of  the  crook¬ 
ed  brush  between  the  second  or  third  joints  from 
the  top  as  short  as  it  can  be  without  breaking  it 
off.  The  rest  I  leave  standing  till  a  few  days 
before  it  is  fit  to  cut.  Then  I  break  the  stalks 
toward  the  rising  sun  so  that  the  dew  will  dry 
off  in  the  morning.  When  cutting  the  brush,  I 
take  the  stalk  in  the  left  hand  close  to  the  brush, 
and  cut  it  off  with  a  butcher’s  knife  that  is  not 
very  sharp.  A  knife  with  a  keen  edge  will  cut 
the  leaf  off,  which  bothers.  I  take  all  the  leaves 
off  the  stalk,  holding  the  brush  in  my  hand  till 
I  have  a  handful,  laying  the  brush  of  three  or 
four  rows  between  two  rows  in  gavels,  ready  to 
put  on  a  wagon  to  go  to  the  drying  shed. 

“Brush  will  not  grow  in  length  after  it  is 
broken  down ;  yet  it  will  become  coarser  and 
continue  to  ripen  if  it  is  not  broken  entirely  off. 
Every  time  the  brush  is  handled,  keep  it  as 
straight  as  you  can  conveniently,  as  it  is  a  slow 
job  to  straighten  it  when  it  is  tangled  like  hay. 
The  stalks  of  each  brush  should  be  not  less  than 
four,  nor  more  than  six  inches  long,  as  six  inch¬ 
es  is  the  most  convenient  length  when  making 
brooms.  If  the  stalks  are  much  longer,  the}'’ 
only  increase  the  bulk  of  broom  corn,  and  often 
require  extra  labor  to  cut  them  of  convenient 
length  before  they  are  worked  up.” 

HOW  TO  THRESH  BROOM  CORN. 

“  To  thresh  with  a  flail,  lay  the  brush  in  a  row 
on  the  barn  floor  two  or  three  stalks  deep,  and 
place  a  plank  on  the  stalks,  with  one  edge  even 
with  the  lower  end  of  the  brush.  Stand  on  the 
plank  while  using  the  flail.  The  object  of  the 
plank  is  to  protect  the  stalks  from  being  crush¬ 
ed,  as  mashing  spoils  them  for  brooms. 

“  Another  way  of  removing  the  seed  is  with  a 
broom  corn  hatchel,  or  comb,  the  teeth  of  which 
are  made  of  iron  f  by  i  square,  and  about  8 
inches  long.  Six  inches  of  one  end  should  be 
drawn  to  a  point.  About  2  inches  of  the  lower 
end  should  be  left  full  size.  The  points  should 
be  beveled  on  both  sides,  leaving  the  back  side 
the  widest.  The  points  of  the  teeth  should  be 
about  i  an  inch  apart.  The  teeth  are  fastened 
on  the  back  side  of  the  end  of  a  plank  2  feet  2 
inches  high,  and  one  foot  wide,  with  two  bolts 
and  a  cross  piece  (or  they  may  be  set  firmly  in 
holes  in  the  end  of  the  plank).  This  upright 
plank  is  then  spiked  to  another  plank  resting 
flatly  on  the  floor.  The  broom  corn  brush  is 
drawn  through  these  teeth,  which  strips  off  the 
seed. — Another  way  is  to  thresh  the  corn  with 
a  cylinder  driven  by  horse  or  other  power.  A 
cylinder  for  such  a  purpose  should  be  about  2 
feet  long,  10  inches  in  diameter,  driven  by  a  pul¬ 
ley  6^  inches  in  diameter.  The  spikes  should 
be  3  inches  long,  and  k  inch  in  diameter,  driven 
1  inch  into  the  wood.  Make  marks  around  the 
cylinder  i  of  an  inch  apart,  and  set  the  spikes 
in  seven  different  rows  lengthwise  of  the  cylin¬ 
der,  so  that  a  wisp  may  pass  between  two  teeth. 
The  teeth  should  be  bearded  so  that  they  will 
not  fly  out.  The  cylinder  is  overshot  with  a 
concave.  Two  men  hold  the  handfuls,  and  two 
,  others  prepare  them  for  threshing.” 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


308 


Oxen  Profitable  Teams. 


Late  in  the  autumn  of  1864,  a  good  farmer  of 
our  acquaintance,  purchased  a  yoke  of  ordi¬ 
nary  cattle  for  two  hundi’ed  dollars,  and  used 
them  for  hauling  wood,  rails,  and  any  thing  else, 
and  for  doing  most  of  the  plowing  for  spring 
crops  on  a  farm  of  seventy  acres.  In  June,  he 
sold  them  for  beef  for  two  hundred  and  sixty 
dollars.  He  thinks  their  labor  paid  well  for  the 
meal  they  consumed.  On  the  same  day  that  he 
drove  these  oxen  to  market,  he  purchased  anoth¬ 
er  yoke  for  one  hundred  and  ninety  dollars. 
After  a  few  months  he  sold  these  for  beef  at 
an  advance,  which  also  paid  well  for  the  meal 
fed  to  them,  and  purchased  another  yoke  at 
once,  and  commenced  feeding  them  with  meal, 
working  them  occasionally.  By  Ahis  system  of 
trafficking,  he  made  three  hundred  dollars  in 
about  one  year,  and  had  a  good  ox  team  con¬ 
stantly,  receiving  a  good  price  for  all  grain 
fed  them,  besides  making  a  large  quantity  of  ex¬ 
cellent  manure.  He  is  a  good  manager,  always 
feeds  his  teams  well,  treats  them  kindly,  and 
never  allows  them  to  be  over-worked,  or  wor¬ 
ried  by  disagreeable  drivers,  who  use  up  more 
of  the  energies  of  a  team  by  bawling  at,  and 
whipping  them,  than  by  the  labor  got  out  of 
them.  He  never  purchases  poor  oxen,  even  at 
a  cheap  rate,  as  it  requires  many  dollars  worth 
of  meal  to  get  them  into  a  fattening  condition. 

- -v-t - i  m - 

The  Habit  of  the  Wheat  Plant. 


When  a  kernel  of  wheat  germinates,  it  re¬ 
mains  where  it  is  deposited  in  the  soil,  sending 
out  a  system  of  primary  roots,  fig.  1,  and  pro¬ 
ducing  a  stem.  If  the  kernel  is  buried  5  or 
6  inches  deep,  the  stem  and  leaves  will  be  quite 
slender,  and  the  leaves  will  not  attain  that  rank 


and  luxuriant  growth  that  is  seen  when  the 
seed  is  planted  from  one  to  two  inches  beneath 
the  surface.  The  substance  which  composes 
the  kernel  is  transformed  into  the  primary  roots 
and  stem.  If  the  kernel  is  small,  and  is  buried 
deeply,  there  is  sometimes  not  enough  nourish¬ 


ment  in  it  to  form  a  stem  to  reach  the  surface 
of  the  ground.  When  this  is  the  case,  both 
roots  and  stem  cease  to  grow  and  die  before 
“  coming  up.”  It  began  to  live ;  but,  before  the 
leaves  (its  lungs)  were  produced,  it  died.  Some¬ 
times  there  is  substance  enough  to  form  the 
stem  and  a  set  of  large  leaves,  before  the  roots 
begin  to  draw  nourishment  from  the  soil ;  and 
there  are  instances,  in  which  the  plant  grows 
but  little,  for  a  long  time  after  it  has  come  up. 
This  shows  that  it  was  buried  too  deeply. 

When  wheat  is  covered  half  an  inch  or  more 
deep,  there  will  be  a  joint  of  the  stem  just  be¬ 
low  the  surface  of  the  ground,  fig.  1,  a,  at  which 
point  secondary  roots  start  out  on  every  side. 
But  these  do  not  make  much  growth  the  first 
season,  unless  the  grain  is  put  in  early  in  autumn. 
When  the  seed  is  sowed  late,  there  will  be  but 
few  plants  having  more  than  the  primary  roots, 
as  shown  in  fig.  1.  The  next  season,  however, 
all  those  plants,  the  primary  roots  of  which  are 
an  inch  or  more  below  the  surface  of  the  ground, 
send  out  a  nerv  system  of  secondary  roots  at 
the  joint,  a,  fig.  1.  These  all  spread  out  hori¬ 
zontally,  while  the  primary  roots  strike  down¬ 
ward  as  far  as  the  soil  has  been  pulverized ; 
and  where  the  subsoil  is  not  compact,  the  roots 
frequently  grow  from  one  to  four  feet  below  the 
stratum  of  soil  moved  bytlie  plow.  We  have 
in  mind  instances  where  the  primary  roots  liave 
been  traced  six  feet  below  the  surface  of  the  soil. 

Figure  2,  is  an  exact  representation,  as  to  size 
of  stem  (bent  to  save  room),  roots  and  leaves,  of 
a  wheat  plant  produced  in  our  office  from  a 
kernel  planted  just  6  inches  deep.  In  five  days 
the  first  leaf  appeared.  In  two  days  more,  the 
leaves  were  developed  as  here  represented.  The 
joint  at  «,  fig.  1,  insures  the  formation  of  a  sys¬ 
tem  of  secondary  roots,  the  office  of  which  is  to 
take  up  nourishment  for  the  growth  and  fruc¬ 
tification  of  the  plant.  At  this  point  also  the 
tillering  of  the  plant  takes  place,  and  not  where 
the  primary  roots  unite  with  the  stem  at  the  base. 

This  subject  has  a  direct  relation  to  deep  and 
shallow  seeding.  The  plant  here  illustrated  is 
the  only  one  among  eight  good  kernels  sowed 


[OCTOBEK, 


six  inches  deep,  that  reached  the  surface,  and 
developed  leaves.  Most  of  the  other  kernels 
germinated,  and  sent  a  stem  almost  to  the  sur¬ 
face,  but  there  stopped  growing,  and  at  length 
decayed.  There  was  evidently  not  enough  nu¬ 
triment  in  the  kernels  to  form  stems  to  reach 
to  the  surface.  We  lately  planted  40  kernels  of 
good  wheat,  in  a  very  favorable  place  in  the 
garden,  from  six  to  seven  inches  deep,  and  only 
one  spear  appeared  above  ground,  and  that 
merely  developed  its  leaves  like  those  of  fig.  3, 
growing  little  or  none  for  more  than  two  weeks. 
A  few  other  stems  discontinued  to  grow  before 
they  reached  the  surface,  while  many  others 
on  examining  the  soil,  could  not  be  found  at  all. 

Figure  1,  represents  another  wheat  plant 
from  the  seed  buried  one  inch  deep,  which  is 
much  better  than  a  depth  of  six  inches,  for  rea¬ 
sons  already  given,  as  well  as  for  the  one  fol¬ 
lowing  :  When  the  grain  is  deposited  from  one 
to  two  inches  deep,  the  primary  roots,  and 
the  secondary  roots  springing  from  the  joint 
a,  fig.  1,  are  so  near  each  other,  that  freezing 
and  thawing  of  the  soil  is  not  so  liable  to  injure 
the  plants  during  a  mild  winter  or  late  spring. 

Our  aim  is,  to  show  by  the  habit  of  the  plant, 
Jiow  and  why  there  is  an  advantage  in  put¬ 
ting  in  winter  grain  with  a  good  drill,  over¬ 
sowing  broadcast  and  harrowing  the  grain  in. 
This  subject  is  not  only  interesting,  but  is  of 
great  practieal  importance  to  cultivators,  and 
should  be  carefully  studied  and  thoroughly  un¬ 
derstood.  See  an  article  on  the  advantages  of 
“  Drilling  in  Wheat,”  p.  378,  Sept.  Agriculturist. 

- - - - - - 

Making-  Drains  -with  Plank. 

Stones  suitable  for  forming  a  channel  for  the 
water  in  the  bottom  of  a  ditch,  are  often  scarce, 
or  wanting  entirely,  and  tiles  cannot  be  always 
obtained  vuthin  convenient  distance,  but  planks 
are  comparatively  cheap  and  easily  got  almost 
everywhere.  Where  the  subsoil  is  compact, 
planks  may  be  used  with  the  assurance  that  they 
will  last  in  the  drain  for  30  or  40  years,  and 
as  long  as  they  last,  they  will  be  fully  equal  to 
tile  or  stone.  The  writer  has  lifted  plank  drains 
on  his  own  farm,  the  wood  of  which  had  not 
been  prepared  in  any  way,  yet,  after  having 
lain  30  years,  they  were  in  effective  condition. 

The  best  way  to  use  planks  is,  to  saw  them  all 
of  a  certain  length,  and  lay  them  crossAvise 

of  the  ditch. 
When  they  are 
thus  laid, planks 
of  all  Avidths 
may  be  used  up 
very  economi¬ 
cally,  and  make 
a  much  strong¬ 
er  drain,  than 
Avhen  they  are 
placed  length¬ 
wise.  TAVomen 
with  a  horse- 
saAv  Avill  easily 
cut  up  a  thou¬ 
sand  feet  of 
plank  inlO-inch 
pieces  in  less 
than  two  hours. 
Planks  should 
alAvays  be  well  seasoned  before  they  are  put 
under  ground,  as  they  will  last  much  longer 
than  if  green,  and  if  every  piece  were  dipped  in 
coal  tar  a  fcAV  Aveeks  jArevious  to  being  laid  in 
the  ditch,  they  Avould,  no  doubt,  hast  one  hundred 
years,  We  knoAV  of  some  Avhite-wood  gas-pipst 


Fig'.  1.— PLANK  DKAIN. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


309 


soaked  in  coal  tar,  wliich  showed  no  signs  of 
decay  at  all,  after  it  had  been  in  the  ground  22 
years.  When  laying  dry  planks  in  the  ditch, 
leave  them  temporarily  about  one  fourth  of  an 
inch  apart ;  they  will  soon  swell  and  touch. 
If  there  is  little  danger  that  the  earth  will  be 

washed  away, 
excavate  the 
bottom  as  re¬ 
presented  in 
fig.  1,  with  off¬ 
sets  on  each 
side,  laying  the 
planks  on  these 
shoulders  or 
offsets.  The 
writer  has  laid 
within  the  last 
25  years  hun¬ 
dreds  of  rods  of 
plank  drains, 
like  fig.  1,  with 
the  channel  4to 
6  inches  deep, 
the  planks  10 
inches  long ; 
excellent  satifaction 


Fig.  2.— PLANK  DRAIN, 


and  such  drains  give 
to  this  time.  Some  of  them  have  carried  for 
fifteen  years  a  stream  as  large  as  a  3-inch  pipe, 
without  being  obstructed  in  a  single  instance. 

If  the  earth,  where  the  draining  is  done,  is  so 
shaky  and  loose  that  the  water  might  wash  it 
away,  it  is  not  wise  to  use  planks,  unless  the 
sides  are  protected  with  wood,  as  represented  in 
fig.  2.  After  the  ditch  is  dug,  say  ten  inches 
wide  on  the  bottom,  the  corners  must  be  dressed 
out  true,  so  that  a  scantling  will  lie  solidly  and 
squarely.  The  size  of  the  side  strips  should  be 
somewhat  in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  water 
to  flow  in  the  channel.  We  have  used  strips 
li  X  2  inches  square,  and  2  x  3,  2  x  4,  and  2x6. 
The  bottom  of  the  ditch  should  be  pointed  as 
shown  in  the  figure,  to  give  a  current  when 
there  is  ^but  little  water,  and  also  to  prevent  it 
washing  the  earth  from  under  the  side  pieces. 

The  planks  should  always  be  assorted  pre¬ 
vious  to  being  laid.  All  the  best  ones  should  be 
placed  by  themselves  towards  the  lower  end  of 
the  drain.  If  there  are  any  poor  pieces,  better 
burn  them  for  fire  wood,  or  lay  them  together 
at  the  upper  end,  or  in  short  branches.  One 
poor  piece  of  plank  will  render  a  good  drain 
useless,  in  a  few  years.  If  poor  pieces  be  all 
kept  together,  when  the  ditch  fails,  they  will  all 
be  decayed  nearly  alike.  The  same  is  true  of 
good  planks.  Great  care  should  be  exercised 
in  returning  the  first  dirt  into  a  ditch,  lest  some 
of  the  planks  be  displaced.  Before  using  a 
plow  or  scraper  to  cover  with,  shovel  in 
enough  of  the  hard  earth,  to  hold  the  planks  in 
place.  The  earth  that  was  thrown  out  last, 
should  be  returned  first,  especially  if  it  is  cold 
and  unfertile.  Every  ditch  should  be  filled 
heaping  full,  to  keep  surface  water  from  wash¬ 
ing  open  holes  and  filling  the  drain  with  earth. 


Black  Spanish  Bowls. 

We  have  before  us  the  modest  request  of  a 
young  poultry  fancier,  that  we  would  “  print 
something  about  Black  Spanish,  Dorking,  Brah¬ 
mas,  or  any  other  varieties  of  fowls.”  We  will. 

The  beautiful  engraving,  which  we  place  in  the 
next  column,  is  the  portrait  of  a  Spanish  cock, 
very  near  perfection.  It  is  taken  from  Saunder’s 
Domestic  Poultry, — a  good  work  recently  pub¬ 
lished.  A  more  beautiful  bird  can  hardly  be 


imagined,  one  of  prouder  carriage, 
greater  gallantry, or  of  more  genuine 
dignity  and  nobility  of  mien.  The 
true  Castilian  is  of  the  real  aristo¬ 
cracy  of  the  poultry  yard,  and  such 
a  cock  seems  to  feel  his  blood  as 
thoroughly  as  a  Grandee  of  Spain. 

The  points  which  determine  excel¬ 
lence  are :  1st,  purity  and  intensity 
of  the  blackness  of  the  plumage, 
in  both  cocks  and  hens,  liightened 
by  a  glossy  andgreenisli  iridescence. 

2nd,  the  pure  white  face,  which, 
including  the  ear-lobe,  must  extend 
distinctly  from  the  beak,  comb  and 
wattles,  back  so  as  to  surround  the 
ear,  which  is  that  little  depression 
on  the  side  of  the  head  filled  with 
bristly  hairs.  8d,  the  comb,  large, 
single  and  perfectly  erect  in  the 
cocks,  and  large  but  tbin  and  lop¬ 
ping  or  drooping  in  the  hens.  These 
points,  if  found  combined  with  well 
formed  bodies,  steel  colored  legs, 
and  the  lofty  carriage,  we  have 
described,  are  sufficient  guarantees 
of  fine  birds  of  the  genuine  Spanish  breed.  1 
They  excel  as  layers,  not  being  sitters.  Their  | 
eggs  are  large,  of  most  excellent  quality,  and  of 
a  most  beautiful  white  color.  The  birds  require 
warm  quarters  during  our  cold  winters,  and  are 
often  greatly  disfigured  by  the  freezing  off  of 
their  combs.  They  will,  no  doubt,  do  better 
south  than  north  of  the  latitute  of  New  York 


BLACK  SPANISH  COCK. 

City.  Still  they  are  not  very  difficult  to  raise ; 
they  grow  rapidly  and  mature  early.  The  flesh 
is  good,  not  quite  equal  to  Dorkings,  and  they 
fatten  easily.  The  chickens  ought  not  to  be 
hatched  before  about  the  first  of  June,  or  settled 
warm  weather,  as  they  do  not  bear  cold  and 
wet  well,  yet  after  they  get  a  good  start,  they 
get  their  feathers  early,  and  are  considered  no 
more  difficult  to  rear  than  other  varieties.  Be¬ 
fore  young  birds  are  in  full  plumage,  some 
white  feathers  are  often  shown,  and  very  old  fowls 
frequently  exhibit  also  the  same  peculiarity. 

The  great  beauty  and  excellence  of  these  fowls 
as  layers  will  make  them  special  favorites,  so 
long  as  they  are  preserved  pure.  Though  they 
improve  the  common  Dunghills  when  crossed 
with  them,  their  beauty  is  not  perpetuated. 


Look  out  for  Glanders  and  Farcy  now. 

The  attention  of  the  whole  community  of 
horse  owners  ought  to  be  especially  directed  to 
the  terrible  and  Insidious  malady,  which  ap¬ 
pears  usually  under  two  forms,  bearing  the 
names  Glanders  and  Farcy.  The  former  ex¬ 
hibits  itself  chiefly  in  the  nasal  cavities,  while 
in  the  latter  form  it  is  seated  in  the  lymphatic 
system,  and  appears  in  abscesses,  swellings 
and  ulcerations  upon  any  part  of  the  body,  but 
chiefly  upon  the  legs.  The  wicked  sales  by 
Government  agents  in  the  best  horse  markets 
all  over  the  country,  certainly  in  several  of 
them,  both  at  the  East  and  the  West,  of  horses 
infected  with  this  fatal  and  incurable  disorder, 
not  only  deserve  reprehension  and  punishment, 
but  impose  upon  us  all  the  duty  of  knowing 
something  about  the  disease,  its  symptoms  and 
the  appearances  by  which  it  may  be  recognized. 

The  first  fact  which  meets  us  is,  that  the  dis¬ 
ease  is  contagious ;  the  next,  that  it  is  incurable. 
Then  we  become  aware,  that,  though  in  most 
forms  it  is  easily  recognized,  in  some  systems  it 
remains  partially  dormant,  yet  so  active  that  the^ 
horse  is  capable  of  imparting  the  disease  in  its 
acutest  form.  Then  we  have  the  following, 
stated  as  facts  by  all  the  best  veterinary  author¬ 
ities:  Inoculation  with  the  virus  will  produce 
either  Glanders  or  Farcy,  according  to  the 
constitution  or  condition  of  the  patient,  irrespec¬ 
tive  of  the  origin  of  the  virus,  whether  fi'om 
a  glandered  or  farcied  horse. — Infection  takes 
place  from  horses  drinking  out  of  the  same 
trough  or  bucket,  eating  out  of  the  same  crib, 
wearing  the  same  bits  or  harness,  being  cur¬ 
ried  by  the  same  comb,  being  harnessed  in  the 
same  team,  being  hitched  at  the  same  post, 
from  rubbing  noses  as  horses  always  will  if  they 
can  on  the  road  or  in  adjoining  pastures,  etc., 
etc.  Besides  all  these  we  have  the  appalling  fact 
that  grooms,  drivers,  and  all  coming  in  contact 
with  glandered  animals  are  liable  to  take  the 
disease,  which,  when  attacking  human  beings,  is 
attended  with  the  greatest  distress  and  agony, 
before  death  comes  to  relieve  the  sufferer. 

We  have  prepared  an  engraving,  which  ex¬ 
hibits  the  two  prominent  and  certain  indica¬ 
tions  of  glanders,  as  usually  observed  in  this 
country.  The  first  symptom  is  like  the  in¬ 
dication  of  a  cold  with  a  running  at  the  nose ; 
but  the  discharge  instead  of  being  simply  whit* 


310 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[October, 


Ish  mucus,  with  the  secretion  from  the  eyes 
(through  the  lachrymal  ducts),  and  coming 
from  both  nostrils,  is  usually  from  only  one 
nostril,  of  a  darker  color,  “sizy,”  or  gluey, 
in  character,  and  adhering  to  the  edges  of  the 
nostril.  This  appearance  is  distinctly  appreci¬ 
able,  even  when  following  or  attending  the  usual 
flow  during  strangles,  catarrh,  colds,  etc.  It  is 
accompanied  by  a  discoloration  of  the  Schnei¬ 
derian  membrane,  that  covers  the  septum,  (the 
dividing  wall  between  the  nostrils,)  which 
appears  of  a  pale  yellowish  to  brownish  un¬ 
healthy  color  instead  of  the  pink  or  reddish 
shade  of  health,  or  slight  inflammation.  At  the 
same  time,  one  or  both  of  the  sub-maxillary 
lymphatic  glands  (usually  only  one)  becomes 
enlarged,  and  soon  more  or  less  callous  and  ad¬ 
herent  to  the  bone.  The  locations  of  these 
glands  are  upon  the  inner  sides  of  the  lower 
jaw,  near  the  spot  indicated  in  the  engraving. 
The  condition  of  them  must  be  determined 
by  the  feeling,  and  not  by  the  looks.  When  in 
a  healthy  condition,  they  can  be  barely  perceived 
at  all.  The  condition  of  the  septum  being  ac¬ 
curately  observed,  it  will  probably  soon  exhibit 
upon  the  pale,  unhealthy  surface,  numerous  or 
several  small  ulcers,  which  at  first  appear  like 
little  lumps,  and  then,  small  pinholes,  or  larger 
open  sores,  with  light  centres  and  dark  outsides. 
The  engraving  represents  a  man’s  hand  holding 
the  nostril  open,  so  that  the  septum  with  the 
ulcers  upon  it,  indicated  by  the  figure  2,  may  be 
seen.  The  figure  1  shows  (as  indicated  by  a 
small  black  spot)  the  opening  of  the  lachrymal 
duct,  which  is  the  channel  that  conducts  the 
tears  from  the  eyes  to  the  nose,  and  which  oc¬ 
curring  as  it  does  in  that  portion  of  the  nostril 
having  the  color  of  the  skin  at  the  muzzle,  is 
not  likely  to  be  confounded  with  the  ulcers  upon 
the  light  flesh- colored,  or  slightly  discolored  por¬ 
tion  of  the  dividing  wall  or  septum.  These  ap¬ 
pearances  are  easily  distinguished  from  acci¬ 
dental  hurts,  which  indeed  rarely  occur  within 
the  nose,  for  scratches  or  punctures  present  a 
very  different  appearance,  and  are  not  accom¬ 
panied  by  the  gluey  mucus,  and  discoloration. 

No  person  should  carelessly  examine  a  horse 
for  the  glanders.  Any  handling  of  the  nostril 
is  very  apt  to  bring  on  a  snorting  and  clearing 
of  the  nose  of  muco-purulent  matter,  which  flies 
in  every  direction,  and  may  easily  inoculate  a 
person  with  the  virus.  Proper  caution  requires 
taking  a  soft  sponge,  wet  with  warm  castile-soap 
suds,  thrusting  it  gently  into  the  nostril  and  wip¬ 
ing  it  out  perfectly  clean,  before  a  close  examina¬ 
tion.  The  hands  should  be  free  from  sores,  and 
in  case  the  horse  blows,  the  operator’s  head 
should  be  quickly  averted. 

AVlien  the  symptoms  above  described,  or  any 
of  them  appear,  the  horse  should  be  isolated 
from  all  others,  and  carefully  watched,  and  as 
soon  as  there  is  no  doubt  that  the  disease  is 
glanders,  he  should  be  killed  and  deeply  buried. 

Since  the  above  was  put  in  type,  a  distin¬ 
guished  veterinarian  has  given  us  the  following 
full  and  accurate  technical  account  of  the 
symptoms  of  the  disease  for  the  Agriculturist : 

Glanders. — Its  symptoms  are,  a  continued 
flow  or  discharge,  from  one  or  both  nostrils 
(generally  the  left),  which  discharge  is  at  first 
thin  and  serous;  then  thick  and  glairy,  like 
white  of  egg ;  but  after  a  time  becomes  opaque, 
pirrulent,  bloody,  and  very  offensive,  retaining 
however  its  viscidity.  Soon  after  it  commences, 
an  enlarged  gland  may  be  felt  under  the  lower 
jaw  adhering  to  the  bone.  The  next  symptom 
noticed  is  one  or  more  depressed  ulcers,  having 
sharp  edges  on  the  Schneiderian  membrane 


which  covers  the  septum ;  these  spread  widely 
and  deeply,  and  lead  to  caries  of  the  bone. 
Then  the  lips  and  eye-lids  swell,  the  external 
parts  of  the  face  may  become  gangrenous,  and 
the  animal  die  in  a  few  days  with  putried 
fever ;  or  he  may  perish  more  slowly,  the  dis¬ 
ease  spreading  to  the  lungs.  The  distinctive 
symptoms  are  the  continuousness  of  the  dis¬ 
charge,  and  the  adherence  to  the  jaw  of  the 
enlarged  submaxillary  gland. 

Farcy,  which  has  its  seat  in  the  lymphatic 
system,  begins  with  hard,  cord-like  swellings  of 
the  lymphatic  vessels  and  glands,  (called  farcy 
buds).  These  slowly  suppurate,  and  form  fistu¬ 
lous  sores,  which  discharge  a  copious  thin 
sanious  matter ;  farcy  always  leads  to  glanders. 

- - - -  a  . . 

Harvesting  Buckwlieat. 


Buckwheat  shells  so  readily,  it  requires  great 
care  in  cutting,  as  well  as  in  raking  and  setting 
it  up.  When  cutting  buckwheat  with  a  reaper, 
if  the  gavels  are  raked  off  or  thrown  off  with  a 
fork,  more  grain  will  be  shelled  out  than  in  any 
other  way  of  harvesting.  The  best  way  to  treat 
the  gavels,  when  buckwheat  is  cut  with  a  reaper, 
is  to  let  one  man  walk  close  to  the  machine,  and, 
taking  hold  of  the  tops,  as  often  as  a  gavel  is 
cut,  place  it  on  the  buts.  If  the  straw  is  not 
very  heavy,  perhaps  he  may  do  it  more  expedi¬ 
tiously  with  the  aid  of  a  good  barley  fork,  or  a 
large  manure  fork.  Should  the  straw  be  very 
large  and  heayy,  it  may  be  necessary  to  stop  the 
reaper  every  time  a  gavel  is  removed  from  the 
platform.  Even  should  this  be  necessary,  two 
men  would  cut  and  set  up  more  with  a  good 
reaper,  than  with  cradles  and  rakes,  and  would 
shell  out  less  grain.  After  a  few  acres  have 
been  cut,  let  the  gavels  be  straightened  up  and 
the  tops  bound,  as  represented  by  the  illustra¬ 
tion  of  a  stook 
of  buckwheat 
herewith  given. 

Only  a  few 
straws  are  nec¬ 
essary  to  bind 
the  tops.  Af¬ 
ter  a  gavel  is 
bound,  take 
hold  of  the  stook 
stook  carefully,  with  both  hands,  and  raise  it, 
and  let  it  drop  two  or  three  times,  to  make  it 
stand  securely.  This  evening  of  the  buts  should 
be  done  also,  when  the  gavels  are  raked  by  hand. 
The  gavel  of  buckwheat,  when  bound  at  the 
top,  becomes  a  stook  rath^^r  than  a  sheaf. 

When  buckwheat  is  cradled,  instead  of  cut¬ 
ting  around  a  plot,  or  around  the  entire  field,  if 
the  straw  stands  erect,  it  is  better  to  cradle  back 
and  forth,  entirely  across  one  side  of  the  field, 
so  that  two  swaths  will  be  laid  with  the  tops 
together.  By  this  means,  a  wide  passage  for 
the  wagon  will  be  prepared,  between  two  rows 
of  gavels,  with  two  swaths  in  each  row.  When 
the  stooks  are  arranged  in  rows  on  each  side  of 
a  wagon,  they  can  be  pitched  on  much  fiister 
than  if  standing  irregularly  over  the  entire  field. 

Explicit  directions  are  often  given  to  cradlers 
when  cutting  buckwheat,  to  point  in  high,  and 
point  out  as  high  as  they  point  in,  while  the 
middle  of  the  swath  is  cut  close  to  the  ground. 
The  object  is  to  leave  high  stubble  for  the  buck¬ 
wheat  to  rest  upon,  which  will  keep  it  up  from 
the  ground,  while  it  is  curing.  There  is  one  ob¬ 
jection  to  such  high  stubble.  The  straw  will  set¬ 
tle  down  among  it,  and  thus  become  entangled. 
Then,  when  the  swaths  are  raked,  a  much 


larger  quantity  of  grain’will  be  shelled  out  and 
lost  than  if  the  stubble  were  cut  rather  short. 
Swaths  of  buckwheat  should  be  raked  quite 
differently  from  other  grain.  We  press  the 
gavels  of  wheat  and  rye  together  with  a  rake  to 
facilitate  binding  them ;  but  the  gavels  of  buck¬ 
wheat  should  simply  be  rolled  along,  keeping 
one  leg  constantly  pressing  against  the  buts  to 
keep  them  even,  so  that  they  will  stand  erect. 
Thrusting  the  rake  into  the  straw,  handling  it 
roughly,  and  jamming  the  rake  down  on  the 
gavels  should  be  avoided,  as  all  such  motions 
will  shell  out  more  or  less  grain.  Careless  boys, 
or  heedless  men,  who  handle  the  gavels  roughly, 
will  soon  shell  out  more  than  enough  to  pay 
careful  men  for  properly  performing  the  work. 
When  buckwheat  is  handled  with  the  greatest 
possible  care,  there  will  usually  be  enough  grain 
shelled  out  to  seed  the  ground  much  thicker 
than  is  necessary  for  a  crop. 


Advice  Asked  and  Given. 


A  correspondent,  “  A.  S.,”  writes  as  follows : 
“  Will  you  kindly  give  a  subscriber  information 
as  to  whether  it  would  pay  for  him  to  rent 
twelve  acres  of  ground,  say  on  Long  Island, 
within  a  few  miles  of  New  York,  and  raise  gar¬ 
den  stuff  for  market,  and  keep  one  reliable  man 
all  winter,  and  the  necessary  extra  assistance  in 
busy  season.” 

The  above  is  selected  from  a  number  of  let¬ 
ters  asking  similar  advice,  the  most  of  which 
are  unanswerable.  For  instance,  a  perfect 
stranger  asks,  if  it  will  pay  for  him  to  buy  a 
place  in  Maryland  or  Delaware,  to  raise  fruit 
for  the  northern  markets ;  another  wishes  to 
know  if  we  would  advise  him  to  settle  in  Ten¬ 
nessee,  or  Missouri,  etc.  A  little  reflection  will 
show  any  one  how  impossible  it  is  to  give  advice 
upon  any  of  these  points  without  being  inti¬ 
mately  acquainted  with  the  writer’s  capabilities, 
experience,  and  means,  and  rather  than  make  a 
guess  in  the  dark,  we  are  for  the  most  part, 
obliged  to  decline  answering  except  in  the 
most  general  terms.  The  above  letter  is  very 

easily  answered - No.  If  the  writer  were  an 

experienced  gardener,  he  would  not  have  asked 
the  advice,  and  no  experiment  can  be  more 
risky  than  that  of  gardening  of  any  kind  with 
a  view  to  profit,  by  a  new  hand.  “But,”  our 
friend  will  say — “  many  do  make  market  garden¬ 
ing  pay.”  It  is  true,  they  do,  and  one  great  ele¬ 
ment  in  their  success  is,  they  work  hard  them¬ 
selves.  If  we  understand  our  correspondent, 
he  wishes  to  hire  both  land  and  labor,  and  pocket 
the  profits.  The  plan  is  about  as  feasible  as  to 
open  a  store  of  any  kind  and  leave  it  in  charge 
of  a  hired  clerk.  It  might  in  some  rare  cases 
pay,  but  generally  it  would  not.  Successful 
culture,  whether  of  vegetables  or  fruit,  requires 
not  only  the  personal  superintendence  of  the 
proprietor,  but  that  he  should  vrork  with  his 
own  hands,  and  above  all,  that  he  should  have 
a  knowledge  of  the  business.  In  competing 
with  the  skilful  market  gardeners  near  large 
cities,  an  inexperienced  person  has  a  poor 
chance.  A  few  days  in  the  earliness  of  a  crop 
will  determine  its  success  or  failure.  For  e.x- 
ample,  a  week  ago  tomatoes  were  bringing 
paying  prices,  while  at  the  time  we  write,  they 
can  hardly  pay  for  the  picking  and  bringing  to 
market.  A  knowledge  of  varieties,  of  the  best 
means  of  forwarding  them  so  as  to  get  early 
crops,  and  of  rotating  crops  so  as  to  get  the 
most  possible  from  the  land,  are  all  necessary 
to  success — and  are  just  the  points  wherein  a 
novice  will  fail.  There  are  two  ways  in  which 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


311 


our  friend  can  gain  the  necessary  knowledge : 
lie  can  go  into  the  business  and  learn  the  way 
to  success  through  the  teaching  of  many  fail¬ 
ures,  or  he  can  engage  himself  actively  for  a 
year  with  some  experienced  and  successful  mar¬ 
ket  gardenei'.  We  do  not  wish  to  discourage 
attempts  at  gardening  as  a  business,  but  do 
wish  to  impress  upon  those  who  feel  tempted 
to  go  into  it,  that  success  there,  as  in  any  mer¬ 
cantile,  or  mechanical  operation,  depends  upon 
knowledge,  skill,  and  unremitting  industry,  and 
especially  upon  personal  application. 

- — ..Mi  .*.■». - - - 

Strategy  in  the  Department  of  Agricul¬ 
ture. 

Peace  as  well  as  war  hath  her  victories.  Ag¬ 
riculture  is  a  peaceful  pursuit,  and  she  finds  her 
official  embodiment  in  the  person  of  the  Com¬ 
missioner  of  Agriculture,  who  is  so  great  a  strat¬ 
egist,  that  Grant  and  all  the  rest  of  our  military 
men  might  study  and  profit  by  his  manoeuvers. 
Some  time  ago  our  Western  friends,  thinking 
that  their  part  of  the  country  had  some  little 
interest  in  the  matter,  made  a  strong  effort  to 
displace  the  present  Commissioner  by  Mr.  John 
H.  Klippart,  Sec.  Ohio  State  Board  of  Agricul¬ 
ture.  Isaac  Newton  saw  a  very  ripe  apple 
about  to  fixll,  which  was  himself,  and  he  imme¬ 
diately  set  to  work  to  overcome  the  laws  of 
gravitation.  It  was  suddenly  discovered  that 
the  Department  stood  in  need  of  knowledge — 
everybody  else  knew  it  all  along — and  that  arti¬ 
cle  not  being  included  in  the  stock  of  that 
Philadelphia  seed  store,  it  was  concluded  to 
send  to  Europe  for  a  fresh  lot.  Who  of  all  the 
men  in  the  country  so  fit  to  employ  as  Mr.  Klip¬ 
part.  He  was  sent  by  the  Department,  and  our 
Western  friends  flanked ;  a  victory  showing  a 
generalship,  which  if  exercised  on  the  battle¬ 
field,  might  have  saved  a  world  of  fighting. 
Trophies  begin  to  come  in  as  the  result  of  this 
splendid  strategy,  in  proof  of  which  we  see 
that  Mr.  Klippart  contributes  as  European  cm'- 
respondent,  to  Isaac  Newton’s  Monthly  Journal, 
called  “  Monthly  Report  of  the  Agricultural 
Department.”  We  are  glad  that  Mr.  K.  has  a 
foreign  tour  at  our  expense,  for  he  is  a  good  ob¬ 
server,  and  he  can  not  fail  to  gather  much  that 
is  useful.  But  we  are  very  sorry  to  see  so'  capa¬ 
ble  a  man  obliged  to  play  the  second  fiddle. 


Wintering  Cabbages  and  Cauliflowers  in 
Cold  Frames. 

The  earliest  cabbages  which  appear  in  our 
market  are  from  seed  sown  in  Septelnber,  the 
plants  being  kept  through  the  winter,  until  the 
season  will  allow  of  their  being  planted  out. 
Messrs.  Brill  &  Kumerle,  of  Newark,  who  sell 
large  quantities  of  seeds  to  the  New  Jersey 
market  gardeners,  give  in  their  fall  catalogue 
the  following  practical  directions : 

“  Sow  from  10th  to  15th  of  September  thinly 
in  open  ground,  and  as  soon  as  the  plants  are 
large  enough  to  handle  (usually  in  about  five  or 
six  weeks),  transplant  deeply  into  cold  frames, 
25  inches  each  way,  and  on  the  approach  of  cold 
weather  put  on  sashes,  but  be  particular  to  give 
plenty  of  air  every  fine  day  during  the  entire 
winter.  Transplant  deeply  in  spring,  as  soon 
as  the  ground  will  work,  in  highly  manured, 
loamy  soil,  16  by  30  inches ;  keep  well  hoed  and 
cultivated.  Fall  plowing  is  beneficial  to  land 
for  garden  crops,  and  if  the  ground  is  not  in 
prime  order,  a  dressing  of  manure  at  this  time 
will  be  very  beneficial,  though  heavy  manuring. 


with  partly  decomposed  hot  manure  in  spring, 
is  essentially  necessary  to  secure  a  good  crop 
of  Early  Cabbage. 

“  N.  B. — Be  particular  to  observe  the  follow¬ 
ing  rules.  Sowing  at  the  above  time,  transplant 
deeply,  in  cold  frames,  and  again  in  open  ground, 
so  that  the  entire  stalk  may  be  below  the  ground, 
as  it  is  here  where  the  frost  injures  cabbage 
plants.  Give  plenty  of  air  in  winter,  that  the 
plants  may  not  become  drawn.  Avoid  much 
moisture.  A  Cold  Bed  or  Frame  is  simply  a 
frame  of  spruce  or  otheiTumber,  one  plank  high 
on  the  front,  and  two  on  the  back,  and  should 
face  the  south  or  east,  and  may  be  any  length 
and  width  to  suit  your  sashes.  Gardeners  in 
this  section  use  sashes  3  by  6  feet,  this  being  the 
most  convenient  size,  letting  the  edges  rest  on 
sliders,  to  facilitate  in  opening  and  closing, 
to  give  air.” 


Notes  on  Grapes  and  Grape  Culture. 


Now  that  grapes  are  ripening,  we  are  in  the 
receipt  of  samples,  sent  either  for  a  name  or  to 
get  a  good  word  in  favor  of  somebody’s  seed¬ 
ling.  We  are  always  willing  to  give  the  name, 
if  in  our  power,  but  there  are  many  sent  us 
which  had  better  die  nameless.  The  success  of 
some  accidental  seedlings,  and  of  others  raised 
by  careful  culture,  seems  to  have  given  to  many 
the  idea  that  the  mere  fact  that  a  variety  is  a 
seedling,  is  something  in  its  favor  which  should 
outweigh  its  “plentiful  lack”  of  good  qualities. 
Many  of  the  “  seedlings  ”  are  no  better  than 
wild  grapes,  and  are  not  worth  individual  no¬ 
tice.  A  correspondent  in  West  Macedon,  N. 
Y.,  sends  a  small  bunched,  sour  “seedling,”  that 
stings  the  mouth  painfully,  with  the  remark 
that  it  is  “  early,  perfectly  hardy,  and  was  last 
season  pronounced  by  good  judges  a  superior 
wine  grape.”  It  certainly  can  not  be  hardier 
than  the  Delaware  and  Clinton,  nor  earlier  than 
the  Hartford  Prolific,  and  is  vastly  inferior  to 
either  of  them  for  any  purpose.  It  is  an  un¬ 
pleasant  task  to  show  up  the  defects  of  one’s 
pets,  as  most  persons  take  anything  said  against 
their  seedlings  as  a  personal  affront.  While  we 
desire  to  encourage  every  promising  new  varie- 
ety,  it  is  our  duty  to  discountenance  the  intro¬ 
duction  of  any  variety  that  is  not  in  some  re¬ 
spect  superior  to  well  established  sorts.  The  only 
seedling  of  any  promise  that  we  have  seen  thus 
far  this  season,  is  one  sent  by  Mr.  A.  Child,  of 
Middlesex  Co.,  N.  J.  It  is  a  seedling  of  the 
Hartford  Prolific,  and  much  exceeds  it  in  size  of 
berry  and  bunch.  The  first  fruit  of  the  vine 
was  almost  fully  ripe  August  21st,  when  it  was 
cut  to  save  it  from  the  birds.  Though  not  en¬ 
tirely  ripe,  we  think  it  superior  to  its  parent  in 
quality,  and  shall  look  with  interest  for  the  re¬ 
sults  another  year. 

Adirondac. — A  great  many  vines  of  this  vari¬ 
ety  have  been  distributed  over  the  country,  and 
we  now  begin  to  get  some  definite  reports  from 
it.  There  are  many  localities  in  which  it  does 
not  seem  to  succeed,  where  plants  which  have 
been  set  out  several  years  make  very  little 
wood,  and  of  course  give  no  fruit.  Then  again, 
in  other  places,  it  grows  and  bears  well,  and 
when  it  does,  it  is  a  first  class  grape  in  every 
respect.  We  are  glad  to  be  able  to  report  its 
success  in  other  localities  than  the  one  in  which 
it  originated.  In  the  grounds  of  Geo.  H.  Hite, 
Esq.,  Morrisania,  near  N.  Y.  City,  the  fruit  began 
to  color  August  5th,  and  was  ripe  on  the  22d. 
Isaac  Pullen,  Esq.,  of  Hightstown,  N.  J.,  sent 
us  rather  over-ripe  bunches  on  Sept.  5th,  with 


the  remark  that  they  had  been  in  eating  for 
more  than  two  weeks.  Messrs.  S.  B.  Howell, 
and  W.  S.  Hodgman,  of  Painted  Post,  N.  Y., 
sent  us  fine  specimens  on  Sept.  4th,  stating  that 
with  them  they  are  earlier  than  the  Hartford. 
The  last  mentioned  specimens  were  quite  equal 
to  those  exhibited  by  Mr.  Bailey.  We  once  told 
Mr.  B.  that  when  we  saw  as  good  fruit  of  the 
Adirondac  raised  by  others  as  that  grown  by 
himself,  we  should  say  so.  Now  that  we  have 
seen  it,  we  are  ready  to  accord  to  the  Adirondac 
as  a  fruit,  our  unqualified  praise.  For  earliness, 
freedom  from  pulp,  sweetness,  and  great  delica¬ 
cy  of  flavor,  it  stands  in  the  first  rank,  and  we 
sincerely  hope  that  the  cases  we  have  noted 
above,  concerning  its  unsuccessful  ness  in  some 
hands,  may  prove  to  be  rare  exceptions. 

Rebecca. — It  is  rarely  that  one  has  a  really 
fine  crop  of  this  variety,  but  we  have  seen  one 
this  season  in  the  vineyard  of  Mr.  C.  T.  Schmidt, 
upon  the  Palisades,  opposite  Dobb’s  Ferry.  The 
amount  of  fruit  was  large,  the  bunches  fine  and 
perfect,  and  from  their  great  beauty,  will  meet 
with  a  ready  sale.  The  Delaware  close  along 
side  was  dropping  its  leaves  and  looking  poorly. 

Bayers'  Hybrids. — These,  as  far  as  we  have 
observed  this  year,  have  suffered  worse  than  any 
other  varieties  from  mildew,  with  the  exception 
of  No.  1,  which  seems  to  have  withstood  it. 
Last  year  we  did  not  speak  of  these  varieties  in 
as  high  terms  as  those  dealing  in  them  thought 
they  deserved.  We  observed  pretty  extensively, 
and  merely  recorded  what  we  saw,  and  no  little 
abuse  did  we  get  for  it.  Notwithstanding,  we 
said  to  these  gentlemen,  “  if  you  will  show  us 
any  number  of  Rogers’  Hybrids  equal  to  the 
Delaware,  Iona,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  or  Catawba, 
we  will  cheerfully  say  that  our  judgement  was 
made  on  poor  specimens,”  the  dealers  accuse  us 
of  partiality  in  favor  of  other  sorts,  and  preju¬ 
dice  against  theirs.  An  advertisement  has  just 
come  to  our  notice,  which  says:  “For  the  past 
five  years  these  grapes  have  been  acknowledged 
(except  by  a  few  dealers  interested  in  other 
/kinds)  to  be  among  the  earliest,  hardiest,  and 
most  exquisite  sorts  known.”  Now,  we  have 
never  to  our  recollection,  sold  a  vine  in  our  lives, 
and  it  would  be  quite  as  well  for  those  interest¬ 
ed  in  pushing  these  grapes  to  stick  to  the  truth. 
We  have  no  other  wish  than  to  do  these  varie¬ 
ties  full  justice,  and  regret  that  their  very  gen¬ 
eral  failure  by  the  rot  and  mildew  will  probably 
deprive  us  of  an  opportunity  to  revise  our 
judgment. 

Israella. — We  have  said  but  little  about  this 
variety  heretofore,  because  we  have  not  had  a  ' 
fiiir  opportunity  of  judging  of  it.  In  a  note  in 
August  “Basket”  we  mentioned  that  the  vine 
was  a  good  bearer,  and  we  have  now  before  us 
fruit,  which  being  from  young  vines,  is  not  as 
large  as  we  saw  it  last  year.  It  ripens  as  early 
as,  or  before  the  Hartford,  but  is  vastly  superior 
to  that  in  quality.  It  is  tender  and  very  sweet, 
two  important  elements  of  popularity.  The  ber¬ 
ries  cling  to  the  stem  with  remarkable  tenacity,  a 
quality  which  adds  to  its  value  as  a  market  fruit. 

Iona. — Last  year  we  gave  it  as  our  opinion 
that  this  was  the  best  American  grape  yet  intro¬ 
duced.  On  Sept.  6th,  we  tested  specimens  which 
fully  confirmed  us  in  this  belief.  Some  may 
prefer  the  Delaware  for  its  intense  sweetness, 
but  to  our  taste,  the  high  vinous  flavor  of  the 
Iona,  combined  with  sufficient  sweetness,  put  it 
in  advance  even  of  the  Delaware.  The  great 
beauty  of  the  Iona  is  not  equalled  by  any  na¬ 
tive  variety,  and  perhaps  not  surpassed  by  any 
foreign  one.  Both  bunch  and  berry  are  large, 
and  covered  with  a  fine  bloom. 


313 


AMERICAN  AQRIGULTURIST. 


[October, 


Fig.  1. — FEMALE  TROUT,  TWENTY  MONTHS  OLD. — Sketched  and  Engraved  for  the  American  AgricuUurUt. 


Breeding  Trout  and  other  Fish. 

Trout  breeding  is  a  subject  which  has  been 
comparatively  little  discussed  by  the  Agricultur¬ 
ist — partly  for  the  reason  that  the  editors  have 
never  been  personally  engaged  in  it,  nor  wit¬ 
nesses  of  any  especial  success  attending  it.  The 
subject  is,  however,  attracting  attention  of  late, 
particularly  on  account  of  the  wide  circulation 
gained  by  some  newspaper  paragraphs  concern¬ 
ing  the  success  of  a  gentleman  in  the  central 
part  of  the  State  of  New  York.  This  person 


Fig.  3.— TROUT  JUST  HATCHED. 


has  a  rival  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  this 
city,  whose  success  is  very  encouraging,  and  the 
foots  we  obtain  from  him  are  most  important. 

Artificial  Fish  breeding  has  a  history  of  only 
some  18  years,  but  within  this  time  very  inter¬ 
esting  results  have  been  accomplished.  As  an 
art  it  was  introduced  to  the  world  of  scientific 
utilitarians,  so  near  perfection  that  few  if  any 
essential  improvements  have  been  made.  The 
mature  trout  of  both  sexes 
are  confined  in  ponds  fed 
by  springs.  Shallow  ditch¬ 
es  with  still  pools  and 
gravelly  bottoms  are  iDro- 
vided.  From  the  middle 
to  the  last  of  October,  the 
male  fish,  adorned  like  a 
bridegroom  in  his  most 
brilliant  colors,  jjrepares 
the  gravelly  nest  for  the 
eggs.  He  then  coaxes  the 
female  upon  it ;  and  it  is  at 
the  time  that  she  begins  to  lay  her  eggs  that  she 
should  be  caught  in  a  net,  and  her  eggs  very 
gently  pressed  from  her  into  an  earthen  basin 
containing  water.  The  fish  is  saved  alive,  and 
the  male  fish  is  proceeded  with  in  the  same 
manner.  The  “  milt”  which  flows  from  him  is 
stirred,  gently  but  thoroughly,  among  the  eggs. 
These  eggs,  at  first  being  of  a  dull  orange  color, 
rapidly  change  as  soon  as  impregnated,  becom¬ 


ing  clearer  and  almost  transparent.  After  this  | 
the  eggs  are  placed  upon  clean  gravel  in  boxes 
in  running  water — if  possible,  in  a  brook  or 
channel  fed  by  living  springs,  and  in  which  the 
water  is  entirely  under  control,  and  not  liable  to 
floods.  This  should  be  more  or  less  shaded, 
and  the  boxes  ought  to  be  covered — for  in  the 
natural  way  trout  cover  their  eggs  with  gravel. 
Nine  to  twelve  weeks  elapse  before  hatching. 
They  then  appear  like  the  magnified  sketch  in 
figure  2,  adjoining  which  are  two  small  out¬ 
lines,  showing  the  actual  size  of  the  egg  and 
of  the  fish  newly  hatched.  The  mass  attached 
to  its  belly  is  the  yolk  of  the  egg.  This  is  en¬ 
cased  in  a  bladder  like  sack,  and  furnishes  the 
little  fellow  food  for  the  first  30  days  of  his 
life.  After  this  he  begins  to  pick  up  animal¬ 
cules  which  abound  in  shallow  water  and  in¬ 
crease  in  numbers  greatly  after  the  warm 
weather  of  spring  comes  on.  This  is  in  brief 
the  process  recommended  by  wTiters  on  thesub- 
j  ect,  and  as  nearly  as  we  recollect  that  followed 
in  some  of  the  European  fish-breeding  places 
which  we  have  visited.  The  gentleman  whose 
suceess  we  have  alluded  to,  does  not  attempt 
the  artificial  impregnation  of  the  eggs,  but  pro¬ 
viding  suitable  breeding  ditches  fed  by  perpet¬ 
ual  springs,  he  allows  the  fish  to  have  their  own 
way,  make  their  nests,  lay  their  eggs,  impreg¬ 
nate  them  and  cover  with  the  usual  gravel. 

The  ditches  are  watched,  unfriendly  fish, 
beetles,  eels,  etc,,  expelled  and  excluded  as  far 


Fig.  3. — MALE  TROUT,  SEVEN  OR  EIGHT  MONTHS  OLD. 

as  possible,  sediment  of  decaying  leaves,  etc.,  re¬ 
moved  from  the  nests,  if  it  washes  on,  and 
every  effort  made  to  keep  the  eggs  undisturbed. 

The  male  trout,  as  the  breeding  season  ap¬ 
proaches,  not  only  puts  on  the  most  brilliant 
colors,  but  the  projection  upon  his  under  jaw  in¬ 
creases  very  mucli,  becoming  a  real  shovel,  and 
with  it  he  moves  the  sand  and  gravel  about  and 
scoops  out  his  nest  as  he  likes.  This  append¬ 


age  makes  it  very  easy  for  the  males  to  do  great 
damage  in  rooting  out  the  eggs  from  the  nests. 
Our  friend  has  found  young  males  especially 
injurious  in  this  way.  They  should  therefore 
be  rigidly  excluded  from  the  breeding  ditches. 
The  eggs  are  usually  deposited,  as  already  stated, 
after  the  20th  of  October,  and  begin  to  hatch  in 
January,  the  majority  hatching  in  9  to  12  weeks. 
The  breeding  ditches  have  certain  pools  or  ex¬ 
pansions  in  them  where  the  water  is  very  shal¬ 
low.  Into  these  the  young  fish  soon  find  their 
way,  and  by  the  time  they  have  absorbed  their 
aldermanic  bass  drummer-like  paunches,  they 
may  be  seen  very  actively  pursuing  the  animal¬ 
cules  which  breed  in  such  places.  For  this 
reason  shallow  basins  in  their  breeding  ditches 
oi'  brooks  are  quite  essential  to  success.  Where 
the  young  fry  are  numerous,  regular  feeding 
should  begin  in  March.  Bullocks  blood  in  small 
quantities  has  been  successfully  used.  Lean 
scrap  beef  or  mutton,  thoroughly  boiled  to  re¬ 
move  the  grease,  and  then  mashed  veiy  fine, 
has  been  used,  and  any  kind  of  fresh  meat 
would  doubtless  do  as  well.  Such  materials 
are  everywhere  attainable,  but  near  the  sea  a 
great  variety  of  food  very  well  adapted  to  their 
wants  may  be  found.  Our  friend  uses  for  very, 
young  fry,  Horseshoe  crabs  full  of  spawn,  mash¬ 
ing  them  up,  Killy-fish,  or  any  soft-finned  fish, 
run  through  a  meat  cutter  and  made  very  fine, 
etc.  Any  fish  roes,  or  flesh  of  fish  is  good.  As 
the  fish  grow,  they  may  have  coarser  feed,  and 
they  are  extensively  sup¬ 
plied  with  Killies,  which 
are  little  salt  water  fish, 
abounding  in  the  brack¬ 
ish  water  of  the  ditches  in 
the  salt  meadows  adjoining 
the  fish  ponds.  They  are 
scooped  up  and  thrown 
into  the  ponds  where  they 
are  soon  taken  in  charge 
and  disposed  of  by  the 
active  trout  without  dis¬ 
tinction  of  age  or  sex. 
When  trout  have  plenty  to  eat  they  grow  as¬ 
tonishingly  fast.  The  fine  picture  at  the  head 
of  these  columns  is  of  a  female  fish,  taken 
from  the  pond  above  referred  to;  only  19  or 
20  months  old,  that  is, — hatched  a  year  .ago  last 
winter,  .as  our  friend  asserts.  The  smaller  fish, 
(fig.  8,)  is  a  male,  which  came  from  the  egg  last 
winter,  and  is  therefore  about  7  or  8  months 
old.  We  shall  continue  this  subject  hereafter. 


1863.] 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURIST. 


S13 


The  Garden  Lavandula  vera. 

Of  all  perfumes  we  think  that  of  lavender 
flowers  the  preferable ;  its  odor  suggests  cleanli¬ 
ness,  for  the  reason  doubtless,  that  it  is  associa¬ 
ted  with  freshly  washed  linen,  it  being  the  cus¬ 
tom  with  many  housekeepers  to  put  a  little  bag 
of  Lavender-flowers  in  the  drawer  where  the 
clothing  is  kept.  Indeed  the  name  is  derived 
from  the  Latin  lavo,  to  wash,  on  account  of  its 
use  to  perfnme  newly  washed  clothing,  or,  ac¬ 
cording  to  some  authors,  because  it  was  used 
ill  baths.  The  Lavender  plant  is  a  low,  much 
branched  shrub,  from  one  to  two  feet  high,  with 
very  narrow  leaves  of  a  pale  green  color.  The 
flowers  are  borne  in  a  spike  at  the  end  of  a  long 
slender  stem,  and  are  of  a  peculiar  bluish  color 
which,  when  imitated  in  dyed  fabrics,  is  called 
Lavender,  or  Lavender-blue.  The  plant  is  a 
native  of  the  South  of  Europe,  where,  as  well  as 
in  England,  it  is  extensively  grown.  In  this 
country  it  is  frequently  seen  in  gardens,  and 
around  Philadelphia  it  is  cultivated  to  consid¬ 
erable  extent,  for  marketing  the  flowers.  We 
were  surprised  to  find  that  it  endured  the  win¬ 
ters  at  Kewburgh,  IST.  Y.,  and  no  doubt  it  may 
be  successfully  grown  farther  North  than  has 
been  generally  supposed.  Lavender  may  be 


GARBEN  LAVENDER. 


raised  from  the  seed  sown  in  the  spring,  or 
from  cuttings ;  some  of  the  lower  branches,  if 
slipped  off  with  a  piece  of  root  attached,  will 
grow  readily.  The  flowers  are  used  in  perfume 
bags  in  the  manner  above  referred  to,  and  are 
sold  to  the  druggists  and  perflimers.  Their 
value  depends  upon  a  volatile  oil  they  contain ; 
from  50  to  70  pounds  of  flowers,  by  distillation, 


yield  one  pound 
of  oil,  which  has 
their  characteris¬ 
tic  odor,  and  is 
used  both  in  per¬ 
fumery  and  in 
medicine.  Large 
quantities  of  oil 
of  Lavender  are 
made  in  England, 
that  produced  in 
that  country  be¬ 
ing  preferred  to 
any  other.  Dis¬ 
solved  in  alcohol, 
with  other  aro¬ 
matics  and  color¬ 
ed  red,  it  forms 
the  spirit  of  La¬ 
vender  or  Eed  La¬ 
vender  of  the 
shops,  which  was 
formerly  much  us¬ 
ed  as  a  domestic 
stimulant  medi¬ 
cine.  The  flow¬ 
ers  bloom  here  in 
June  and  July; 
they  should  be 
gathered  before 
they  change  color, 
dried  in  the  shade,  and  kept  in  close  vessels. 
The  illustration  is  of  full  size,  with  the  stem  bent 
to  economize  space.  The  shape  of  its  small 
flowers  will  show  It  to  belong  to  the  Labiate  or 
Mint  family,  all  of  which  are  generally  aromatic. 

■^1  »«» - 

A  Stately  Garden  Ornament. 

{Datura  ardorea.) 

In  an  account  of  the  Horse  Nettle,  given  in 
the  September  Agriculturist,  we  mentioned 
that  the  Solanum,  or  Night-shade  Family,  to 
which  it  belongs,  was  remarkable  for  producing 
both  nutritious  and  poisonous  plants.  It  might 
have  been  added  that  the  same  family  had 
among  its  members  some  that  were  highly  or¬ 
namental,  among  the  best  known  of  which  is 
the  generally  cultivated  Petunia.  The  genus 
Datura,  of  this  family,  not  only  gives  us  the 
disgusting  weed.  Datura  Stramonium;  (figured 
in  May,  1864,)  popularly  known  as  Thorn-apple, 
or  Jamestown-weed,  but  several  other  annual 
species,  which  are  really  showy  garden  plants, 
such  as  Datura  meteloides,  etc.  The  Tree  Datu¬ 
ra,  Datura  arlorea,  is  a  shrubby  species  from 
Peru,  which  has  been  for  more  than  a  century 
in  cultivation  as  a  green-house  plant,  and  is 
now  frequently  seen  where  room  can  be  afibrd- 
ed  for  it.  W ere  it  known  with  what  ease  it 
can  be  managed  by  those  who  have  no  green¬ 
house,  and  how  fine  a  plant  it  is  for  ornament¬ 
ing  the  grounds,  it  would  be  much  more  gen¬ 
erally  cultivated.  The  plant  appears  best  when 
trained  in  the  tree  form,  with  a  single  stem  sur¬ 
mounted  by  a  head  of  fiower-bearing  branches. 
The  usual  hight  is  four  or  five  feet,  but  by  prop¬ 
er  management  they  may  be  grown  to  the  hight 
of  8  or  even  13  feet.  Our  engraving  gives  the 
shape  of  the  flowers  and  leaves,  but  much  re¬ 
duced  in  size.  The  hanging  flowers  are  6  to  8 
inches  long,  pure  white,  and  very  fragrant.  A 
double  variety,  with  several  corollas,  one  within 
another,  is  sometimes  cultivated,  but  to  our 
taste  the  single  one  is  the  most  pleasing.  This 
species  is  propagated  by  cuttings  containing  a 
single  eye,  which  in  a  bottom  heat  will  strike 
root  and  grow  very  rapidly.  The  plant  is  a 


DATURA  ARBOREA. 

great  feeder  and  the  young  ones  will  need  fre¬ 
quent  changing  to  larger  pots  of  rich  soil.  Those 
started  early  from  cuttings  may  be  planted  out 
in  the  border  when  the  weather  becomes  warm, 
and  they  will  blossom  the  first  year;  but  if  a 
large  and  strong  plant  is  desired,  the  best  way 
is  to  pinch  off  the  flower  buds,  and  remove  all 
side  shoots,  in  order  to  get  as  great  a  growth  of 
stem  as  possible.  By  removing  the  shoots 
which  push  along  the  stem  and  shortening 
those  at  the  top,  a  symmetrical  and  compact 
head  will  be  produced,  from  which  will  hang  a 
great  abundance  of  the  large  and  striking  flow¬ 
ers.  At  the  approach  of  frost  the  plant  may 
be  taken  up  and  set  in  a  box  with  its  roots  cov¬ 
ered  with  earth  and  kept  in  a  green-house,  a 
dry  cellar,  or  in  any  other  place  where  it  will 
be  safe  from  frost,  until  time  to  set  it  out  again. 
Treated  in  this  way  the  plant  is  but  little  more 
trouble  than  a  Dahlia.  The  large  horticultur¬ 
al  stores  have  this  species  catalogued  at  50  cents. 


Plants  for  Garden  Edgings. 


BY  THOMAS  CAVANAQH.  * 

Mr.  Editor: — Noticing  a  “basket  item” 
asking  for  information  on  garden  edging,  I  will 
try  to  answer  it.  Nothing  is  a  complete  substi¬ 
tute  for  Box,  for  there  is  no  plant  which  makes 
such  a  beautiful  edging  as  that,  when  well  taken 
care  of  and  neatly  trimmed  every  season,  as  it 
should  be.  But  there  are  many  plants  which 
may  be  used  instead ;  Daphne  Cneorum,  with  its 
fragrant  pink  flowers,  forms  a  very  pretty  edge, 
is  quite  hardy,  and  it  is  used  extensively  for 
this  purpose  in  Europe.  Staiice  Armcria,  or 
Sea  Pink,  makes  a  tolerably  good  edge.  A  new 
variety  of  this  called  Statice  suiierha  is  very 
pretty,  with  dark-green  foliage,  and  rose- 
colored  flowers.  Probably  the  best  iilant  for 
edges,  and  one  that  we  have  used  for  some 
years,  is  the  Moss-pink,  Phlox  subulata.  It  is 
very  hardy,  requiring  no  protection  in  winter, 
of  quick  growth,  and  requires  cutting  at  least 
once  a  year.  There  are  white,  pink,  and  lilac 
varieties,  the  three  colors  forming  a  very  pretty 
combination.  Phlox  stolonifera  is  very  beauti- 


314 


AMERICAN  ACRIGULTURIST, 


[October, 


ful  when  in  flower,  and  propagates  very  rapid¬ 
ly,  as  it  throws  out  shoots  similar  to  the  straw¬ 
berry,  but  it  loses  its  foliage  during  winter,  h-is 
pumila  looks  fine,  with  its  rich  purple  flowers, 
but  it  loses  its  foliage  during  dry  weather,  and 
then  presents  a  shabby  appearance.  The  old- 
fashioned  June-pink  makes  a  good  edge,  lasting 
about  three  years  in  the  same  soil ;  to  succeed 
well,  it  should  be  transplanted  every  spring. 
Lamium  maculatum,  with  a  prettily  marked 
leaf,  and  white  flowers,  and  a  constant  bloomer, 
will  require  cutting  several  times  during  the 
summer;  it  loses  its  leaves  in  winter.  A 
Strawberry  edging  combines  usefulness  with 
beauty;  it  is  troublesome  to  keep  free  from 
runners,  but  it  will  furnish  employment  for  the 
children,  and  keep  them  out  of  mischief.  Thyme 
and  Sage  make  a  very  profitable  edging ;  if  the 
seed  be  sown  in  the  spring,  a  good  crop  can  be 
cut,  which,  when  tied  in  small  bunches,  meets  a 
ready  sale  in  the  market.  These  all  form  substi¬ 
tutes  for  box,  but  in  our  estimation  very  poor 
ones.  If  in  an  exposed  situation,  where  it  is 
likely  to  be  killed  during  winter,  box-edging 
should  have  the  soil  drawn  up  to  its  sides,  and 
thus  protected,  it  will  stand  the  most  severe 
winters.  Sedum  Sieboldii  is  perfectly  hardy,  and 
makes  a  good  edging.  [We  thank  Mr.  Cavan- 
agh  for  his  suggestions,  though  as  a  matter  of 
taste  we  disagree  with  him  in  regard  to  the  use 
of  Sage  and  Thyme.  Both  that  and  Parsley 
make  appropriate  edgings  to  beds  in  the  kit¬ 
chen  garden,  but  we  much  prefer  the  others 
he  has  named  in  the  flower  garden. — Eds.] 

- *-« — —aa»m- - - 

Weeds— -The  Indian  Mallow. 

{Abutilon  AvicennoB.) 

This  summer  we  have  frequently  passed  by  a 
lot  containing  a  crop  which  we  could  not  recog¬ 
nise  ;  there  was  an  excellent  “stand”  of  plants 
of  uniform  size,  and  growing  so  luxuriantly 
that  their  leaves  soon  hid  the  ground.  We 
thought  as  we  rode  by,  there  is  a  nice  crop  of 
something,  and  how  free  of  weeds  it  is,  and  were 
often  tempted  to  stop  and  make  a  closer  inspec¬ 
tion  of  it,  and  find  out  what  it  was  that  grew  so 


INDIAN  MALLOW. 


promisingly.  One  day,  being  near  the  place 
on  foot,  we  concluded  to  visit  this  unrecog¬ 
nised  crop,  and  to  our  astonishment  found  a 
number  of  women  engaged  in  pulling  it  all  up, 
and  leaving  exposed  rows  of  poor,  weak,  ruta¬ 
bagas,  which  had  been  hidden  and  starved  by  a 


perfect  covering  of  weeds.  A  near  view  of  the 
weed  showed  it  to  be  an  old  acquaintance — the 
Indian  Mallow,  a  flowering  stem  of  which  is 
shown  in  the  engraving.  Its  heart-shaped 
leaves  are  so  soft  to  the  touch  that  it  is  some¬ 
times  called  Velvet-leaf.  The  small  yellow 
flowers  are  succeeded  by  a  fruit  composed  of  a 
number  of  2-  to  several-seeded  pods  arranged 
around  a  central  stem.  The  fruit  is  bell-shaped 
and  flat  on  the  top,  the  free  points  of  the  pods 
of  which  it  is  made  up  giving  it  a  rather  pretty 
star-like  appearance.  The  plant  accommo¬ 
dates  itself  to  circumstances,  and  in  a  poor  soil 
flowers  and  fruits  when  only  a  foot  or  two  high, 
while  in  a  rich  one  it  attains  to  the  hight  of  5 
or  6  feet,  and  is  not  inelegant.  It  is  more 
common  near  the  coast,  but  we  have  seen 
here  and  there  a  few  plants  at  the  West,  which 
for  their  foreign  look  were  tolerated  as  a  curios¬ 
ity.  We  give  a  portrait  of  the  Oriental  wander¬ 
er,  that  he  may  be  known  and  cast  out  as  a 
worthless  intruder.  Being  an  annual,  the  In¬ 
dian  Mallow  is  easily  disposed  of,  if  pulled  be¬ 
fore  it  has  time  to  ripen  and  scatter  its  seeds. 


Is  Pear  Culture  Profitable  ?— Examples. 

Some  time  ago  there  was  a  great  mania  for 
pear-culture.  It  was  shown  how  many  pears 
a  dwarf  tree  three  years  planted,  ought  to  bear, 
and  the  price  which  these  pears  would  bring  in 
the  market;  having  these  data  and  knowing  how 
many  trees  would  grow  on  an  acre,  it  was  easy 
to  figure  a  large  profit  from  a  given  space,  and 
one  only  need  to  have  a  few  acres  in  pears  to  be 
sure  of  a  very  comfortable  income.  Somehow 
the  thing  did  not  work,  the  trees  were  planted, 
the  income  was  mainly  an  out-go,  and  then  pear 
culture  was  voted  a  humbug.  To  be  profitable, 
fruit  culture,  and  for  that  matter,  culture  of  any 
kind,  must  be  made  a  business,  and  an  intelli¬ 
gent  head  must  direct  industrious  and  careful 
hands.  In  a  congenial  soil  and  climate,  the 
pear  will,  in  the  hands  of  one  cultivator,  pro¬ 
duce  a  profitable  crop,  while  with  another  it 
will  fail.  Some  set  out  the  trees  and  let  them 
take  their  chances ;  the  grass  grows  close 
around  them,  and  the  soil  becomes  exhausted, 
and  the  fruit,  as  a  consequence,  is  so  small  and 
covered  with  blemishes  that  it  is  diflieult  to 
recognise  the  variety.  Another  cultivates  his 
trees,  but  puts  crops  between  them ;  he  forgets 
to  put  on  manure  enough  for  the  crops  and 
the  trees  too,  and  although  the  orchard  is  cul¬ 
tivated,  the  trees  fail  to  do  well.  This  season 
we  saw  a  market  gardener  growing  so  coarse  a 
feeder  as  rhubarb,  close  among  his  pear  ti-ees,  and 
we  much  doubt  that  the  profits  from  the  rhubarb 
will  compensate  the  damage  to  the  trees.  But 
instead  of  enumerating  causes  of  fiiilure,  it  will, 
perhaps,  be  better  to  give  an  account  of  a  suc¬ 
cessful  pear  orchard.  We  recently  had  the 
pleasure  of  visiting  the  grounds  of  Doct.  I.  M. 
Ward,  near  Newark,  N.  J.,  with  whom  the 
culture  of  the  pear  is  a  speeialty.  Div  Ward  has 
a  favorable  location,  and  his  orchard  of  about  six 
acres,  is  well  proteeted  from  winds  by  evergreen 
and  other  trees.  The  trees,  mostly  standards, 
have  the  ground  all  to  themselves,  and  are  well 
fed  and  taken  care  of.  Every  autumn  a  plenti¬ 
ful  supply  of  manure  is  spread  around  each 
tree  as  far  as  the  roots  extend ;  in  the  spring  the 
ground  is  thoroughly  cultivated,  and  later  it  is 
mulched  with  4  to  6  inches  of  salt  marsh  hay. 
The  mulch  keeps  the  surface  of  the  ground 
moist,  and  the  trees  do  not  suffer  from  drouth ; 
it  prevents  the  soil  from  compacting,  and  upon 
lifting  it  anywhere  the  earth  beneath  is  found. 


in  a  light  pulverulent  condition ;  weeds  have 
no  chance  to  grow,  the  few  strong  ones  that 
work  their  way  up  through  this  mat  are  so 
small  in  number,  that  they  maybe  readily  hand- 
pulled.  Another,  and  not  insignificant  benefit 
of  the  mulch  is,  that  it  affbrds  a  soft  cushion 
to  receive  the  falling  fruit ;  in  a  large  or¬ 
chard,  a  considerable  quantity  of  fruit  is  blown 
OS’  by  high  winds,  and  it  is  no  small  item  to 
have  this  free  from  bruises  and  dirt.  In  au- 
tmnn,  the  mulch  is  made  up  into  cocks  between 
the  trees,  the  annual  manuring  is  given,  and  in 
spring  it  is  replaced  with  sufficient  addition  of 
fresh  material  to  make  good  the  waste.  A  part 
of  the  orchard  is  not  mulched,  owing  to  the 
difficulty  of  procuring  material,  but  the  uncov¬ 
ered  portion  receives  the  same  annual  manur¬ 
ing,  and  the  cultivator  goes  through  it  so  fre¬ 
quently  that  the  soil  is  kept  in  excellent  condi¬ 
tion  and  free  of  weeds.  This  is  the  routine  of 
culture,  and  the  result  is  an  abundance  of  fruit 
of  a  quality  that  brings  the  best  market  prices. 
Trees  so  equally  covered  with  well  developed 
fruit, so  uniform  in  size,  we  have  never  before  seen; 
they  are  a  splendid  testimony  to  the  value  of 
abundant  manure,  mulching,  thorough  cultiva¬ 
tion,  and  j  udicious  thinning.  The  varieties  culti¬ 
vated  here  are  Bartlett,  Duchesse,  Lawrence, 
Onondaga,  Doyenne  Boussock,  Seckel,  and  some 
few  others.  We  do  not  propose  to  go  into  a 
gentleman’s  private  aflPairs  and  tell  how  much 
he  makes  fi’om  his  orchard.  Suffice  it  to  say 
that  he  is  satisfied  that  pear-culture  is  profitable. 

A  short  time  after  seeing  Doct.  Ward’s  or¬ 
chard,  we  paid  a  visit  to  that  of  Mr.  C.  T. 
Schmidt,  which  is  situated  on  the  banks  of  the 
Hudson,  opposite  Dobbs’  Ferry,  upon  a  high 
plateau  between  the  river  and  the  Palisades. 
This  orchard  consists  mainly  of  dwarfs,  there 
being  about  2000  of  these  interspersed  with 
something  like  one  fourth  that  number  of  stand¬ 
ards.  Though  the  trees  are  but  five  years  old, 
they  for  the  most  part  are  bearing  very  satisfac¬ 
tory  crops.  The  rows  of  dwarf  Vicars  were 
something  wonderful  for  the  amount  and  beau¬ 
ty  of  the  fruit  with  which  they  were  loaded. 
Both  dwarfs  and  standards,  with  the  exception 
of  a  few  specimens  attacked  by  the  blight,  were 
exceedingly  vigorous  in  appearance  and  all  well 
formed.  Mr.  S.  first  directs  the  energies  of  the 
tree  to  making  wood,  and  in  order  to  bring  it 
into  satisfactory  shape  it  is  severely  cut  back 
when  young.  The  dwarfs  are  well  furnished  to 
near  the  base  with  branehes,  and  as  well  as  the 
standards,  are  models  in  shape.  Though  this 
orchard  is  just  beginning  to  make  returns,  from 
what  we  saw  already  upon  the  trees  and  their 
promise  of  future  fruitfulness,  we  doubt  not,  its 
proprietor  will  also  find  pear-culture  profitable. 

— - »-i — — >-« - - 

Flower  Pits  and  Green-Houses.  < 


Every  one  who  has  a  garden  of  much  extent, 
finds  it  necessary  to  protect  many  half-hardy 
plants  during  the  winter,  and  where  there  is  no 
structure  for  the  purpose,  the  plants  are  placed 
in  the  cellar.  This  treatment  answers  very 
well  in  many  cases,  but  it  often  happens  that 
the  cellar  is  too  dark,  too  damp,  or  too  warm, 
when  the  plants  will  suffer  in  some  manner. 
Those  who  cannot  manage  to  have  a  green¬ 
house,  will  find  the  cold  pit  a  much  better 
substitute  than  the  cellar.  Such  a  structure 
may  be  made  of  a  temporary  character,  but 
where  one  is  permanently  located  it  is  better 
to  build  it  in  a  substantial  manner,  as  it  will  be 
found  convenient  for  other  purposes  than  win¬ 
tering  plants.  The  principal  expense  is  in  pro- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


315 


curing  the  sashes,  ■which  are  about  6  feet  long 
by  8i  feet  ■wide,  the  same  as  those  made  for  hot 
beds.  The  size  of  the  pit  will  be  governed  by 
that  of  the  sash  and  the  number  of  them  to  be 
used ;  about  twice  as  long  as  the  width  will  be 
found  a  convenient  shape.  The  site  for  the  pit 
should  be  a  dry  one,  or  capable  of  being  made 
60  by  draining.  Four  or  five  feet  will  be  a  suffl- 


SECTION  OF  GEEEN-nOUSE. 


cient  depth  to  dig  the  pit,  which  is  then  to  be 
boarded  up,  or  walled  up  ■with  brick  or  stone, 
which  should  run  a  foot  above  the  surface  at  the 
rear,  and  9  inches  above  it  on  the  front  side, 
the  top  of  the  end  walls  having  a  regular  slope 
from  rear  to  front.  Where  brick  or  stone  walls 
are  used,  there  should  be  a  plate  of  oak  joist, 
laid  in  mortar  upon  the  top  of  the  wall,  to  re¬ 
ceive  the  sash.  Bank  up  the  part  of  the  wall 
that  projects  above  the  surface,  and  put  a  good 
layer  of  gravel  or  hard  coal  ashes  in  the  bottom 
of  the  pit,  and  it  is  ready  to  receive  the  plants. 
Tender  Roses,  Camellias,  Carnations,  Azaleas, 
etc.,  will  Avinter  finely  in  such  a  pit.  The  plants 
should  [have  all  possible  ventilation  when  the 
weather  will  allow,  and  be  kept  moderately  dry 
though  not  allo-«'ed  to  suffer  for  want  of  water. 
In  severe  cold  ■w^eather,  cover  the  glass  with 
shutters  or  mats  enough  to  keep  out  hard  frost. 

Many  who  ■umuld  like  to  have  a  green  house 
are  ■  deterred  from  building  one  on  account 
of  the  expensiveness  of  those  they  see  upon 
the  places  of  the  wealthy.  It  is  to  be  regretted 
that  there  is  not  a  demand  in  this  country,  as 
there  is  in  England,  for  portable  green-houses, 
which  can  be  readily  put  up  and  easily  taken 
down  for  transportation  in  case  one  is  a  tenant 
and  obliged  to  move.  Small,  lean-to  green 
houses  can  be  built  very  cheapl3’',  and  will  an¬ 
swer  for  either  growing  plants,  or  simply  pro¬ 
tecting  them  from  frost.  Plans  and  all  the 
details  for  the  construction  of  them  are  given  in 
the  back  volumes,  20  and  21  (1861 — ’62).  The 
objection  to  lean-to  green  houses  is,  that  most 
of  the  plants  are  too  far  from  the  light ;  this  is 
not  a  very  serious  matter  Avhere  the  plants  are 
at  rest,  but  it  is  very  essential  that  growing 
ones  should  be  near  the  glass,  and  our  most 
successful  propagators  have  their  houses  Avith  a 
very  gentle  pitch.  Perhaps  the  most  complete 
range  of  propagating  and  green  houses  in  the 
country  is  that  of  Mr.  Peter  Henderson,  of  Jer¬ 
sey  City.  We  recently  had  the  pleasure  of  vis¬ 
iting  this  well-appointed  establishment,  and  it 
struck  us  that  the  very  simple  plan  carried  out 
there  upon  so  large  a  scale,  might  answer  equally 
well  for  a  small  house.  The  houses  of  Mr.  H. 
are  100  feet  long,  and  in  groups  of  three.  The 
diagram  given  above  is  a  sectional  view  of 
one  of  these  houses,  and  will  give  a  sufiiciently 
correct  idea  of  the  structure  to  enable  one  to 
build  after  his  plan.  The  house  is  11  feet  wide, 
with  no  side  lights,  all  the  ventilation  being 
done  by  lifting  the  sash.  The  ground  line  is 
shown  at  G.  The  walls.  A,  are  of  brick,  but 
may  be  of  stone,  or  even  a  double  wall  of  plank, 
filled  in  Avith  non-conducting  material.  The 


sashes,  B,  are  6  feet  long,  and  supported  by  raft¬ 
ers  framed  into  the  ridge  pole.  The  pathway, 
E,  is  2  feet  Avide,  and  excavated  below  the 
ground  leAml,  so  as  to  give  a  height  of  7  feet  in 
the  clear.  The  benches,  C,  for  the  reception  of 
the  pots,  are  of  earth,  and  are  feet  wide,  the 
sides  being  held  up  by  walls  of  brick  or  plank. 
The  heating  is  done  by  hot  water  conducted 
through  the  pipes  F.  If  the  house  is  to  be  heat¬ 
ed  by  flues,  the  benches,  instead  of  being  of 
solid  earth,  must  be  of  plank,  and  the  flues  pass 
beneath  them  at  D.  Every  other  sash  is  capa¬ 
ble  of  being  lifted  at  the  top  for  the  purpose  of 
ventilation.  A  flat  iron  bar,  about  a  foot  long, 
AA’ith  two  or  three  holes  punched  through  it,  is 
fastened  at  one  end  by  a  staple  to 
the  upper  end  of  the  sash.  The 
sash  is  lifted  to  the  required  hight 
and  held  in  place  by  catching  the 
bar,  by  means  of  its  holes,  upon  a 
strong  iron  pin  driven  into  the  pole. 

ridge  pole.  The  ridge-pole  is  ingeniously  shaped 
to  admit  of  readily  lifting  the  sashes  and  secure 
a  tight  joint;  the  aunexed  cut  gives  a  sectional 
view  of  it.  The  propagating  houses  are  similar 
in  structure,  but  have  water  tanks  for  supply¬ 
ing  bottom  heat.  Mr.  Henderson’s  houses  are 
well  worth  a  visit  from  those  Avho  would  con¬ 
struct  houses  for  propagating  or  growing  plants. 
Instead  of  patenting  every  improvement,  as  some 
have  done,  he  freely  contributes  the  results  of 
many  years’  experience  to  the  general  good. 

■■■'  ■  i  ^  I  ■  I 


The  Porter  Apple. 

It  is  quite  surprising  that  a  fruit  of  such 
great  excellence  as  the  Porter  apple  is  not  more 
generally  cultivated.  In  September  we  find  in 
the  NeAv-York  market,  hundreds  of  barrels  of 
indifferent  or  AA’orthless  fruit,  to  one  of  the 
Porter.  It  possesses  all  the  elements  of  popu¬ 
larity  ;  the  tree  comes  early  into  bearing,  grows 
rapidly,  and  yields  abundant  crops  of  fine  and 
handsome  fruit.  The  above  rough  outline 
isTrom  the  only  specimen  at  hand,  consid¬ 
erably  under  size,  and  somewhat  less  tapering 
than  it  often  is.  The  skin,  Avhen  the  fruit  is 
ripe,  is  of  a  beautiful  clear  yellow,  often  with  a 
blush  on  the  sunny  side ;  the  flesh  is  white,  fine 
grained,  crisp,  tender  and  juicjq  with  an  agree¬ 
able  spirited  and  somewhat  acid  flavor.  It  is  a 
highly  prized  variety  in  New  England,  where  it 
originated,  and  succeeds  in  almost  all  the  north¬ 
ern  and  middle  States ;  is  a  good  market  fruit, 
and  excellent  for  the  table  or  for  cooking. 


Autumn  Leaves  and  Fruits. 

This  month  the  landscape  will  glow  with  the 
brilliant  red  and  yellow  of  the  maples,  which, 
blending  with  the  less  lively  tints  of  other 
trees,  make  up  the  grand  display  of  color  pecu¬ 
liar  to  our  autumn  scenery.  The  general  effect 
is  due  to  the  many-hued  leaves  of  our  forest 
trees,  but  whoever  examines  closely  Avill  ob¬ 
serve  that  the  details  of  this  gorgeous  tapestry 
are  Avorked  in  by  the  brilliant  foliage  of  humble 
shrubs  and  delicate  climbers,  and  that  bright 
berries  and  other  fruits,  and  even  gaily  colored 
stems,  all  contribute  their  tints  to  the  work  of 
the  Great  Artist.  In  tree-planting,  the  autum¬ 
nal  effect  should  not  be  lost  sight  of,  and  there 
are  several  species  that  we  would  select  express¬ 
ly  for  the  colors  which  succeed  their  verdure. 
Our  present  object,  hoAvever,  is  to  call  attention 
to  some  of  the  shrubs  and  smaller  trees,  having 
beauty  of  foliage  or  fruits,  late  in  the  season. 

The  'Witch  Hazel  Avill  even  give  us  floAvers 
at  this  time,  but  that  is  more  curious  than  effec¬ 
tive.  No  leaves  are  brighter  in  autumn  than 
those  of  our  common  Sumach,  Bhus  glabra., 
and  Avhen  there  is  a  rocky  or  barren  spot  it 
may  find  a  place.  The  Flowering  Dogwood, 
Gornus  florida,  turns  its  leaves  to  a  rich  purple, 
amid  which  its  clusters  of  coral  berries  show 
Avith  brilliancy.  Other  red-berried  shrubs  are, 
the  Mountain- Ash,  several  varieties  of  the  Euro¬ 
pean  and  American  species,  the  Bush-Cran¬ 
berry  or  Vihurnum  Opulus,  the  Indian  Cur¬ 
rant  or  Symphoricarpus  milgaris.  The  thorns,  all 
have  shoAvy  red  or  jmllow  fruit,  especially 
the  Pyracantha,  which  has  evergreen  leaves 
as  well  as  red  fruit,  as  do  the  Holly  and  Yew ; 
nor  must  our  common  Black  Alder,  Bex  verti- 
cillata,  be  overlooked,  even  if  it  is  common.  But 
of  all  the  showy  deciduous  shrubs,  our  favorite 
is  the  native  Euonymus  atropurpureus,  the 
Burning-bush  or  Spindle-tree.  This,  when  it 
throws  off  its  green  coat,  stands  arrayed  in 
brilliant  red,  which  in  the  autumn  sunlight, 
glows  as  if  on  fire.  There  is  a  European  spe¬ 
cies  Avith  rose-colored  fruit,  and  a  white  fruited 
variety  of  it.  The  Red-osier  Dogwood,  Gornus 
stolonifera,  gives  us  white  berries,  but  is  more 
valuable  for  the  bright  red  color  of  its  stems. 
The  Suowberry,  Symphorkarpus  raeemosus,  is 
well  knoAvn  and  much  cultivated  for  its  Avhite 
berries.  The  different  varieties  of  Privet  have 
both  white  and  black  fruit,  and  the  American 
and  Japanese  Callicarpas  have  an  abundance 
of  charming  purple  berries.  Several  of  the 
climbers  are  fine  in  autumn.  The  Virginia 
Creeper,  one  of  the  best  of  our  climbers  for  its 
green  foliage,  is  unsurpassed  by  anything  in  the 
beauty  of  its  change  at  the  close  of  the  sea¬ 
son.  The  Moon-seed,  Menispermum  Ganadense,  a 
much  neglected  climber,  is  of  two  sexes.  The 
fertile  plant  has  clusters  of  black  berries,  to 
Avhich  their  fine  bloom  gives  much  the  appear¬ 
ance  of  frost-grapes.  Glematis  Virginiana,  the 
Virgin’s-Bower,  so  full  of  Avhite  flowers  in  Au¬ 
gust,  is  now  conspicuous  for  the  long  feathery 
tails  to  its  fruit,  which  in  some  places  is  called 
“  Old-man’s-beard.”  The  wax-work,  or  Climb¬ 
ing  Bitter-sweet,  Gelastrus  scandens,  figured  in 
August,  1864,  so  fine  at  any  time,  is  now  partic¬ 
ularly  gay  Avith  its  curious  orange  and  scarlet 
fruit.  Others  might  be  enumerated,  but  this 
list,  comprising  mainly  natives  of  our  own 
woods  and  copses,  is  sufficient  to  indicate  some 
of  the  plants  which  may  readily  be  introduced 
to  improve  the  autumn  aspect  of  our  grounds. 
All  of  those  here  given  are  worthy  of  culture 
for  their  beauty  of  leaf  and  flower,  as  well  as 
for  that  of  their  dying  foliage  or  ripened  fruit. 


316 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[October, 


Fif?.  1.— GRATE  HTACINTH. 


Notes  on  Spring  Flowering  Bulbs. 

Those  who  would  have  their  gardens  bright 
with  early  spring  flowers,  as  w^ell  as  those  who 
would  enjoy  their  indoor  blooming  in  winter, 
must  look  to  it  noio,  as  this  is  the  month  in 
which  certain  bulbs  go  into  the  ground,  as  well 
as  the  one  in  which  others,  such  as  the  Tiger- 
flower,  Jacobean  Lily,  Gladiolus,  etc.,  come  out 
of  it.  The  bulbs  planted  at  this  season  for 
spring  flow’ering,  are  known  as  Dutch  bulbs,  for 
the  reason  that  they  are  mainly  imported  from 
Holland,  where,  especially  around  Haerlem, 
they  are  an  important  article  of  culture  and  of 
commerce.  Whole  farms  are  there  devoted  to 
bulb  culture,  and  it  is  from  tliese  that  vast  quan¬ 
tities  are  sent  to  beautify  the  gardens  of  distant 
parts  of  the  world.  To  adepts  in  gardening,  it 
is  not  necessary  to  speak  of  the  value  of  this 
class  of  plants,  nor  to  describe  them  and  their 
mode  of  culture.  But  there  are  many  among 
our  readers  who  are  novices  in  flower  culture, 
to  whom  a  few  Jiotes  upon  these  plants  and 
their  treatment  will  be  acceptable.  It  is  well  to 
bear  in  mind  that  our  liberal  postal  arrange¬ 
ments  now  make  bulbs  as  well  as  seeds,  readily 
accessible  to  those  who  live  at  a  distance  from 
cities.  All  of  the  principal  seedsmen  publish  a 
bulb  catalogue  in  the  fall,  which  they  send  upon 
application,  and  forward  by  mail  such  articles 
as  may  be  ordered.— It  is  much  better  to  plant 
the  bulbs  in  groups  than  to  scatter  them  here 


and  there.  If  set  in  ordinary  garden  soil  they 
will  flower  tolerably,  but  their  much  finer  bloom 
in  a  properly  prepared  soil  will  well  repay  the 
trouble  of  fitting  it  for  them.  The  soil  should 
be  light,  warm,  and  rich,  and  though  sufficiently 
retentive  of  moisture  for  the  plants  not  to  suffer 
in  drouth,  it  should  not  be  wet.  If  the  garden 
soil  be  stiff,  add  sand  in  sufficient  quantity  to 
make  it  light,  and  an  abundance  of  well  decom¬ 
posed  cow  manure — at  least  enough  to  have  it 
form  one  third  of  the  soil  to  the  depth  of  18 
inches.  The  spot  being  well  spaded  over  to 
that  depth,  it  is  ready  for  the  bulbs,  and  the 
sooner  they  are  planted  the  better.  Where  there 
is  a  sufficient  number  of  the  bulbs,  a  very  pleas¬ 
ing  effect  may  be  produced  by  planting  them  in 
circles  one  within  another,  each  circle  being 
formed  of  those  with  flowers  of  the  same  color, 
the  colors  alternating  to  suit  the  fancy.  The 
large  bulbs  require  to  be  set  deeper  than  the 
smaller  ones ;  as  a  general  rule  the  depth  should 
be  twice  the  length  of  the  bulb.  In  spading  up 
the  earth  and  adding  manure,  the  bulb  bed  will 
be  raised  above  the  general  level ;  it  is  best  to 
leave  it  so,  as  it  will  prevent  water  from  settling 
on  it.  When  the  w'eather  becomes  cold  enough 
to  freeze  the  ground,  cover  the  bed  with  a  good 
coat  of  long  manure,  leaves  with  a  little  earth 
thrown  on  to  hold  them,  or  any  other  conveni¬ 
ent  litter,  which  is  to  be  carefully  removed  in 
spring.  The  after  treatment  is  given  at  the  prop¬ 
er  time  in  our  monthly  calendar. — Bulbs  may 
be  easily  grown  in  pots,  and  they  make  most 
pleasing  ornaments  for  the  parlor ;  one  to  three 
of  the  larger  bulbs,  and  more  of  the  smaller 
kinds  being  planted  in  a  pot.  The  soil  used  for 
potting  should  be  similar  to  that  for  garden  cul¬ 
ture  :  equal  parts  of  sand,  good  garden  mould, 
and  well  rotted  cow-dung,  and,  if  the  garden 
soil  be  not  rich  in  vegetable  matter,  add  some 
leaf  mould.  Provide  the  pots  with  good  drain¬ 
age  by  putting  in  the  bottom  an  inch  or  so  of 
fragments  of  pots,  then  fill  them  with  the  earth 
and  plant  the  bulbs,  leaving  their  crowns  well 
above  the  surface  of  the  soil.  Water  thor¬ 
oughly  and  place  the  pots  in  a  dark  closet,  or 
other  dark  and  warm  place,  where  they  are  to 
remain  with  occasional  watering  until  the  earth 
is  well  filled  with  roots.  With  a  little  care  the 
ball  of  earth  may  be  turned  out  of  the  pot  and 
the  condition  of  the  roots  inspected.  When 
the  roots  appear  in  abundance  upon  the  outside 
of  the  ball  of  earth,  remove  the  pots  to  a  light 
window.  If  the  leaves  and  flower  spikes  have 
pushed  in  the  dark,  they  will  probably  be  very 
pale,  but  with  a  few  days’  exposure  to  the  light 
they  will  take  on  a  green  color.  Give  plenty  of 
water  and  remove  the  small  offsets  that  spring 
up  from  the  base  of  the  bulb.  After  blooming, 
the  plants  need  less  water,  and  when  the  leaves 
fade,  the  bulb  should  be  dried  off  altogether 
and  removed  from  the  earth,  and  kept  for  planl- 
ing  in  the  open  ground  the  next  fall.  Bulbs 
may  be  flowered  in  pure  sand,  free  from  salt,  or 
in  moss — the  treatment,  as  to  keeping  in  the 
dark,  etc.,  being  the  same  as  in  pots  of  earth ; 
but  in  these  cases  the  bulb  if  wished  for  futuie 
use,  needs  to  be  planted  in  e.arth,  after  bloom¬ 
ing,  in  order  to  mature  it.  Hyacinths  and  Tu¬ 
lips  are  frequently  bloomed  in  water,  in  glasses 
sold  for  the  purpose.  The  glasses  are  filled 
with  rain  water  and  the  bulb  placed  so  that  the 
bottom  just  touches  the  water.  Keep  about 
two  weeks  in  the  dark,  and  then  bring  them  to 
the  light.  The  roots  and  the  glass  need  wash¬ 
ing,  and  the  water  to  be  changed  about  once  in 
two  weeks.  If  it  is  desired  to  ^ave  bulbs  grown 
in  water,  they  must  also  be  transferred  to  earth 
to  ripen.  Having  occupied  so  much  space  in 


giving  the  general  treatment  of  bulbs,  our  descrip¬ 
tive  notes  of  the  kinds  must  necessarily  be  brief: 

Hyacinth. — This  is  put  at  the  head  of  the  list 
because  if  we  could  have  but  one,  it  would  be 
this.  It  is  both  showy  and  fragrant  and  gives 
a  great  variety  of  color.  There  are  double  and 
single  varieties.  Plant  4  inches  deep,  and  8  apart. 

.  Tulips. — There  are  several  distinct  classes  of 
these,  each  presenting  a  great  variety  of  color. 
The  Early  Bedding  Tulips  are  dwarf  in  their 
growth,  and  flower  much  earlier  than  the  oth¬ 
ers  ;  they  are  also  best  adapted  to  pot-culture. 
Florists  or  Show  Tulips  are  taller  and  later. 
Besides  these,  there  are  the  Double,  and  the  Par¬ 
rot  kinds.  For  all,  except  florists,  the  Early 
Dwarfs  are  best.  They  produce  the  most  strik¬ 
ing  effect  when  planted  in  masses. 

Narcissus. — This  genus  furnishes  several 
pleasing  spring  flowers,  known  by  different  gar¬ 
den  names,  the  principal  of  which  are  the  Jon¬ 
quil,  Daffodil,  and  Polyanthus  Narcissus.  The 
last  named  is  the  most  beautiful,  but  is  some¬ 
what  tender,  and  the  bulbs  after  planting  re¬ 
quire  a  good  covering  of  litter  to  protect  them. 


Fig.  3.— SPRING  SNOW  PLAKE. 


Crown  Imperial. — A  large  ill-smelling  bulb, 
which  should  be  planted  deep.  In  April  it 
throws  up  a  strong  stem  some  three  feet  high, 
surmounted  by  a  crown  of  leaves,  and  large 
and  showy  hanging  flowers.  There  are  several 
colors,  double  and  single.  The  plant  has  a 
very  stately  air  and  makes  a  fine  center  for  a 
circular  bed  of  hyacinths  and  other  bulbs. 

Crocus. — Charming  little  flowers  which  bloom 
very  early,  often  in  March,  if  the  situation  is  fa¬ 
vorable.  Clumps  of  these  all  of  one  color,  pro¬ 
duce  a  fine  effect,  cither  in  the  lawn  or  border. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST, 


317 


They  are  much  used  to  border  beds  of  hyacinths, 
etc.  Set  3  inches  apart  and  cover  3  inches  deep. 

Grape  Hyacinth. — The  several  species  of  Mus- 
cari,  are  perfectly  hardy,  with  small  grape-like 
flowers,  of  white,  blue  and  purple,  like  those 
shown  in  fig.  1,  which  is  somewhat  under  size. 
The  bulbs  may  be  left  in  the  ground  for  years. 

Lilies. — All  are  beautiful,  from  the  common 
native  wild  ones  to  the  more  rare  but  perfectly 
hardy  exotics  from  Jajian.  Set  a  foot  or  more 
apart  according  to  the  size,  and  four  inches  deep. 

Several  species  of  Squill  are  very  bril¬ 
liant  spring  flowers,  among  which  is  our  West¬ 
ern  Quamash,  Scilla  Fraseri.,  sometimes  sold  as 
Camassia  esculenta.  Treat  same  as  the  Crocus. 

Spring  Snowflalce. — This  is  a  very  modest 
hardy  bulb  and  is  called  in  the  catalogues 
Leucoium  vermim.  It  has  flowers  of  the  size 
and  shape  of  fig.  2,  (on  the  preceding  page,)  pure 
white,  with  a  green  spot  on  each  of  the  petals. 

Snow  Drop. — Smaller  flowers  than  the  Snow¬ 
flake,  very  early,  delicate  and  drooping.  It 
blooms  in  March,  often  when  surrounded  by 
snow.  Galanthus  nivalis  is  its  botanical  name. 


A  Ifew  Sijuash— The  Custard  Marrow. 

This  season  our  attention  has  been  called,  by 
Messrs.  Henderson  &  Fleming,  Seedsmen,  to  a 
new  variety  of  squash  to  which  they  give  the 
name  of  Custard  Marrow.  It  is  said  to  be  from 
Japan,  the  seeds  having  come  to  this  country 
by  the  way  of  England.  From  the  shape  of 
the  fruit  one  would  suppose  that  it  was  a  bush 
variety,  and  we  were  surprised  to  find  it  a  vig¬ 
orous  and  quite  prolific  runner.  The  fruit  is 
somewhat  variable  in  shape,  one  o£  the  most 
common  forms  being  shown  below;  the  oth¬ 
ers  vary  from  this  in  being  much  shorter  above 
or  below  the  row  of  scallops,  The  skin  is 


cream  colored,  or  nearly  white,  and  soon  be¬ 
comes  very  hard.  The  section,  fig.  2,  shows 
that  the  flesh  is  very  thick  and  that  the  space 
occupied  by  the  seeds  and  their  surrounding 
pulp  is  very  small.  The  fruit  should  be  taken 
for  use  while  the  rind  is  still  so  soft  as  to  be 
easily  pierced  by  the  finger-nail.  It  cooks  more 
dry  than  the  scalloped  bush  squashes,  and  has 
very  fine  and  delicate  flavor.  Having  made  but 
a  [single  trial  of  this  new  variety  we  are  not 
able  to  say  how  it  compares  with  other  kinds, 
but  taken  by  itself  we  were  very  favoi'abl}’’  im¬ 
pressed  with  it.  As  the  seeds  were  sown  rath¬ 
er  late  we  can  not  speak  as  to  its  earliness. 
AVe  bring  it  to  notice  as  one  of  the  novelties, 
and  await  the  trial  of  another  season  to  estab¬ 
lish  its  rank  in  the  already  long  list  of  varieties. 


Fig.  3.— SECTION  OF  CUSTARD  MARROW. 


flEIE_lEIOT™®IL®o 

Hints  on  Painting  old  Wood  Work. 

As  soon  as  there  have  been  one  or  two  hard  frosts 
to  kill  most  of  the  flies,  it  will  be  an  excellent  time 
to  paint  wood  work  in  the  kitchen,  or  any  other 
part  of  the  house.  Saying  nothing  of  the  economy 
of  painting,  it  is  an  excellent  ijractice  to  apply  a 
thin  coat  of  paint  to  all  the  wood  work  of  the 
kitchen,  once  in  3  or  3  years.  Good  paint  always 
saves  much  hard  labor  in  keeping  such  parts  of  a 
house  clean.  Some  doors  tliat  are  used  often,  need 
painting  every  year,  to  keep  them  at  all  decent.  It 
is  not  best  to  put  on  thick,  heavy  coats,  as  these 
are  needlessly  expensive,  and  after  a  few  years  will 
look  bad.  The  same  amount  of  paint,  applied  often 
in  thin  coats  will  look  better  and  cost  little  more. 

Where  wood  work  is  much  soiled,  especially  by 
hands  not  scrupulously  clean,  it  is  sometimes  difli- 
cult  to  make  even  the  best  of  paint  hold  well.  It 
will  dry  soon  enough,  but  will  afterwards  peel  off, 
for  paint  will  not  adhere  well  to  a  dirty,  greasy 
surface.  This  is  particularly  the  case  in  rooms, 
where  washing  and  cooking  are  usually  carried  on. 

In  order  to  make  paint  stick  and  become  about 
as  firm  as  the  wood  itself,  wash  the  surface 
thoroughly  with  moderately  strong  ley,  using  a 
short  swab,  then  wipe  it  off  with  a  cloth  wrung  out 
in  fresh  water.  This  will  remove  all  grease  and  dirt 
that  prevent  the  paint  from  taking  a  firm  hold. 

Paint  for  such  places  should  be  made  of  the  best 
white  lead,  mixed  to  the  consistence  of  thin  cream, 
with  two  pai'ts  of  the  best  boiled  linseed  oil,  and 
one  part  of  good  lacquer,  or  “  liquid  drier.”  Such 
paint  will  dry  in  one  day,  and  become  sufficiently 
hard  to  handle  in  a  few  days.  A  very  small  quantity 
of  lamp  black  will  make  a  beautiful  lead  color. 
Yellow  ochre  may  be  added  until  the  paint  is  of  the 
desired  shade  for  floors,  mop-boards,  or  wainscoting. 
Pure  white  lead  for  the  body  will  make  a  much 
more  durable  paint  for  floors,  than  most  other 
kinds.  The  use  of  zinc-white,  which  is  much 
superior  to  white  lead  in  some  situations,  as  for 
instance  in  privies,  is  attented  by  a  little  difficulty, 
because  it  must  be  applied  very  thick  to  cover  well, 
when  used  alone  ;  but  a  second  coat,  not  so  thick, 
may  be  put  on  over  other  paint,  and  it  will  give 
greater  brilliancy  and  will  not  tarnish  from  sulphu¬ 
rous  gases  frequently  rising  from  sink-drains,  etc., 
nor  from  the  exclusion  of  light,  which  causes  white 
lead  paint  to  turn  yellow. 


About  Olives  and  Olive  Oil. 


The  Olive-tree  furnishes  two  articles  of  com¬ 
merce  which  are  more  or  less  used  as  food — Olives 
and  Olive  oil.  The  tree  has  been  in  cultivation 
from  time  immemorial,  and  it  is  difficult  to  trace 
it  to  its  native  country,  though  it  is  believed  to  be 
from  Asia.  In  the  Bible  it  is  the  earliest  mention¬ 
ed  of  any  tree,  save  (lie  fig;  it  was  the  branch 
I  of  the  Olive  that  the  Dove  bore  to  Noah,  as  a  sign 


that  the  waters  of  the  flood  had  receded — and  tlie 
branch  has  been  used  as  the  emblem  of  iieacc 
through  many  ages.  The  tree  seldom  grows  more 
than  30  or  80  feet  high,  though  it  lives  to  a  great' 
age ;  it  is  an  evergreen,  with  loaves  of  tlic  Bhai)o 
shown  in  the  engraving,  but  twice  as  large,  and 
of  a  dull  brownish  green  above,  and  very  light  col¬ 
ored  beneath.  This  peculiar  color  gives  to  a  grove 
of  Olive  trees  a  very  sad  aspect.  The  flowers  are 
white  and  inconspicuous,  borne  in  clusters  in  tlie 
axils  of  the  leaves,  and  these  are  succeeded  by  a 
purple  fruit  which,  m  size  and  shape,  resembles  a 
damson  plum,  and  contains  a  single  nut.  The 
fruit  is  remarkable  for  containing  a  large  amount 
of  oil  in  its  fleshy  portion,  that  being  an  unusual 
place  for  oil  to  occur.  It  is  found  to  flourish  in 
some  of  our  Southern  States  and  we  have  seen  a 


BRANCH  OF  OLIVE  TREE. 


fine  row  of  the  trees  near  San  Diego,  in  California, 
where  they  were  planted  by  the  early  Jesuit  Mis¬ 
sionaries.  The  green  fruit  is  picked,  steeped  for  a 
while  in  ley  to  remove  a  portion  of  the  bitterness, 
and  preserved  in  salt  and  water  ;  in  this  state  they 
are  imported  in  casks  and  in  bottles,  and  are  the 
Olives  sold  in  the  shops.  They  are  salt,  bitterish, 
and  have  a  flavor  peculiar  to  themselves  ;  we  doubt 
if  any  one  ever  relished  them  at  first  trial,  and  yet 
most  persons  soon  become  very  fond  of  them. 
They  may  be  regarded  wholly  as  a  luxury  for  the 
wealthy,  and  are  considered  as  useful  to  provoke 
an  appetite — a  purpose  for  which  we  trust  our 
readers  do  not  need  to  try  them.  The  oil  is  a  much 
more  important  product  than  the  pickled  olives, 
and  is  obtained  by  crushing  and  pressing  the  fruit. 
The  quality  of  the  oil  depends  upon  the  degree  of 
maturity  of  the  fruit,  and  the  care  used  in  its  prep¬ 
aration.  The  finest,  or  “  Virgin  Oil,”  is  from  fruit 
not  yet  ripe ;  perfectly  ripe  fruit  yields  a  larger 
quantity  of  an  inferior  oil,  .and  a  still  greater 
amount  of  poor  oil  is  obtained  if  the  ripe  fruit  be 
allowed  to  ferment  in  heaps.  The  oil  is  imported 


318 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[OCTOBBB, 


in  variously  shaped  flasks  and  bottles,  as  well  as  in 
large  jars  and  barrels.  With  us  its  use  as  food  is 
mainly  confined  to  dressing  salads,  etc.,  but  in 
Europe,  it  is  largely  employed  for  most  of  the  pur¬ 
poses  for  which  we  use  butter  and  lard.  The  infe¬ 
rior  kinds  of  oil  are  eunsumed  in  large  quantities 
for  burning,  for  oiling  machinery,  and  for  other  use. 
- - — . — - - - 

Cheese  from  a  few  Cows. 

The  communication  from  a  “  Farmer’s  Wife,” 
upon  making  cheese  from  a  few  cows,  published 
last  June,  seems  to  have  met  the  wants  of  a  num¬ 
ber  of  our  readers.  Mrs.  Ellen  Whitcomb,  of  Del¬ 
aware  Co.,  Iowa,  writes  a  i^leasant  account  of  her 
success,  and  as  her  ingenuity  in  overcoming  some 
difliculties  may  be  of  use  to  others,  we  give  the 
following  extract  from  her  letter : 

“  I  quite  disagree  with  the  ‘  Western  Boy,’  in  say¬ 
ing  the  Agriculturist  is  not  adapted  to  the  West.  I 
think  wherever  people  are,  whether  East  or  West, 
they  may  learn  some  thing.  I  have  all  the  love  for 
the  West  that  any  one  can  boast,  still  I  have  learned 
a  great  many  things  from  the  columns  of  your  pa¬ 
per,  indeed  I  could  not  do  without  it.  As  I  was 
putting  my  cheese  to  press  this  morning,  I  thought 
I  would  write  and  tell  you  how  much  benefit  your 
jiaper  was  to  me,  and  perhaps  my  experience 
might  help  some  one  else ;  and  also  to  express 
my  thanks  for  the  timely  assistance  iu  making  my 
cheese,  derived  from  it.  This  spring  I  said  I  want¬ 
ed  to  make  cheese  with  two  cows,  my  neighbors, 
who  thought  they  must  have  sixteen  or  twenty, 
laughed,  and  guessed  I  would  make  a  large  cheese 
with  two  cows,  one  of  them  being  farrow,  aud  we 
have  a  pet  lamb  that  drinks  four  or  five  quarts  a 
day.  I  did  not  like  to  give  up,  but  never  having 
seen  a  cheese  made,  aud  not  liking  to  ask  them 
how,  I  was  still  undecided,  when  the  June  Agri¬ 
culturist  came  with  those  plain  and  sensible  direc¬ 
tions.  Now,  I  said,  I  will  have  a  cheese.  My  hus¬ 
band  said  he  would  fi.x  a  press  if  I  would  trj'  to 
make  one.  I  got  a  peck  measure  for  a  hoop,  and 
the  rennet  from  a  neighbor,  but  then  I  had  no 
linen  cloth  for  a  strainer ;  never  mind,  some  old 
thin  cloth  would  do  for  all  I  should  make.  The  next 
difficulty  was,  we  had  no  cheese  basket — well,  the 
colander  would  do,  and  now  I  was  ready.  The  first 
cheese  being  too  salt  and  rather  thin,  I  then  thought, 
to  put  three  curds  into  one.  I  tried  it,  putting  each 
curd  into  the  press,  and  pressing  lightly,  so  that  it 
Avould  not  sour,  then  the  third  day  I  crumbled  the 
too  first  with  la.st,  and  pressed  them  all  together, 
and  a  very  nice  cheese  was  the  result,  aud  you  may 
well  believe  I  was  proud  of  it.  Now  I  have  three, 
and  they  all  admit  I  can  make  cheese  from  two 
cows,  for  Avhich  I  thank  the  paper  aud  the  lady 
Avho  wrote  for  it.” 

New  and  Beautiful  Embroidery. 


The  growing  appreciation  of  elegant  embroidery 
as  a  means  of  beautifying  aud  enriching  garments 
.and  fabrics,  is  an  evidence  of  increasing  refinement 
in  taste,  which  all  lovers  of  the  natural,  as  developed 
in  the  artistic,  must  rejoice  to  see.  Not  a  little  of 
this  interest  and  appreciation  is  owing  to  the  new 
methods  of  accomplishing  the  Avork,  rendering  it 
infinitely  more  effective,  as  Avcll  as  greatly  abridg¬ 
ing  the  tediousness  of  the  process.  A  few  years 
ago,  embroidery  Avas  never  seen  excepting  upon  a 
fcAV  articles  of  clothing,  or  household  adornment, 
belonging  to  the  very  Avealthy.  Ladies  could  not 
even  afford  to  hire  it  done,  so  costly  Avas  it,  on  ac¬ 
count  of  the  length  of  time  consumed  in  its  pro¬ 
duction.  What  their  OAvn  industry  aud  skill  could 
not  achieve  in  the  art  of  ornamental  nccdle-Avork, 
they  Avere  obliged  to  do  Avithout ;  but  so  highly 
]irized  Avere  the  comparatively  crude  results  of  their 
dainty  fingers,  tliat  the  most  valued  gift  a  lady  could 
bestow  on  lier  lover,  Avas  a  sc.arf  embroidered  Avith 
her  own  hands.  Could  the  bright  eyes  that  grew 
dim  during  the  months,  and  even  years,  that  were 
frequently  occupied  iu  Avoaving  solemnly  grotesque 
roses  and  most  alarming  leaves  on  silk  or  wool, 


have  seen  the  brilliant  and  graceful  shapes  whieh 
groAV  into  life  with  the  rapidity  of  thought  in  these 
latter  days,  through  the  instrumentality  of  the 
Grover  &  Baker  SeAving  Machine,  they  Avould  have 
looked  with  disgust  upon  what  had  before  been  a 
source  of  much  satisfaction,  and  believed  that  the 
magic  of  the  past  had  been  transferred  to  the  future, 
and  instead  of  the  lamp  of  Aladdin,  found  its  homo 
in  the  modern  sewing-machine. 

The  facility  with  which  the  most  difficult  and 
elaborate  patterns  are  executed  by  this  machine, 
added  to  the  exquisite  beauty  of  the  workmanship, 
has  made  it  the  most  fashionable  of  decorations, 
not  only  for  children’s  garments  and  morning 
Avrappers,  but  for  dresses  of  rich  material,  and  the 
finest  of  carriage  and  opera  cloaks.  The  carriage- 
rug  of  the  Princess  of  Wales,  displayed  every  day 
in  her  rides  in  Hyde  Park,  is  embroidered  in  Avhite 
silk,  in  the  Grover  &  Baker  stitch,  Avhich,  accord¬ 
ing  to  the  Queen  and  other  English  fashion  journals, 
is  exciting  a  furore  abroad.  A  great  advantage  in 
embroidery  is  the  union  of  strength  and  elasticity, 
for  Avhich  the  sewing  of  the  Grover  &  Baker  Ma¬ 
chine  has  always  been  famous,  and  Avhich  renders 
it  smooth,  even,  aud  perfect,  Avithout  irregularity 
or  liability  to  rip.  Altogether,  this  embroidery 
promises  to  take  a  distinguished  place  in  ornamen¬ 
tal  Avorkmanship  abroad  as  Avell  as  at  home,  and 
must  greatly  add  to  the  esteem  in  Avhich  this 
favorite  machine  has  ahvays  been  held. 


A  Libel  on  the  Tomato. 


The  following  precious  nonsense  is  going  the 
rounds  of  the  agricultural  and  other  papers  :  “  A 
good  medical  authority  ascribes  to  the  tomato  the 
folloAving  very  important  medical  qualifications  : 
1st.  That  the  tomato  is  one  of  the  most  poAverful 
aperients  of  the  liver  and  other  organs ;  Avhere 
calomel  is  indicated,  it  is  one  of  the  most  effective 
and  the  least  harmful  medical  agents  known  to  the 
profession.  2d.  That  a  chemical  extract  Avill  be 
obtained  from  it  that  will  supersede  the  use  of  cal¬ 
omel  in  the  cure  of  diseases.  Sd.  That  he  has  suc¬ 
cessfully  treated  diarrhoea  Avith  this  article  alone. 
4th.  That  Avheu  used  as  an  article  of  diet,  it  is  al¬ 
most  sovereign  for  dyspepsia  and  indigestion,”  etc. 

This  Ave  regard  as  a  sort  of  double-header,  being 
a  wrong  to  the  medical  profession,  and  a  libel  upon 
our  most  excellent  friend  the  tomato.  No  “  good 
medical  authority  ”  ever  wrote  himself  down  such 
a  stupid  as  to  accuse  a  tomato-vine  of  being  an 
apothecary’s  shop,  or  a  pair  of  Doctor’s  saddle- 
bags.  Just  think  what  a  condition  our  livers  must 
be  in  at  the  close  of  the  tomato  season,  after  being 
so  poAverfully  “  .aperiented,”  to  say  nothing  of  the 
“  other  organs.”  The  Avhole  thing  savors  of  the 
most  arrant  quackery.  The  tomato  extract  dodge 
Avas  tried  years  ago,  and  Ave  had  “Tomato  pills, 
Avill  cure  all  ills,”  as  the  quack  epidemic  for  its 
day.  Let  no  lover  of  the  delicious  tomato  be  de¬ 
terred  from  enjoying  it  for  fear  of  taking  anything 
bearing  the  slightest  resemblance  to  calomel  or 
any  other  medicine,  but  e.at  as  many  as  he  likes 
Avithout  thinking  of  his  liver  or  the  doctor. 


To  sret  I2id  oFTlies. — R.  F.  Watson  con¬ 
tributes  to  the  Agriculturist  the  folloAving  simple 
method  of  destroying  flies  Avithout  poison.  Nearly 
fill  a  common  tumbler  Avith  strong  soap  suds.  Then 
nail  a  small  board  on  the  end  of  a  pole  long  enough 
to  reach  the  ceiling.  Place  the  tumbler  on  the 
board  and  keep  it  in  place  by  three  nails,  or  pins 
inserted  in  holes  around  it.  Then  in  the  evening, 
make  the  room  rather  dark,  and  Avhen  the  flies  have 
settled  on  the  ceiling,  clap  the  tumbler  over  them ; 
they  Avill  fly  into  the  suds,  aud  make  a  good 
breakfast  for  the  chickens. 


To  Remove  Oreeu  Corn  from  tlie 
Col». — 11.  G.  Bulkley  Avrites  to  the  American  Agri¬ 
culturist  :  “  If  you  Avould  leave  as  much  of  the  hull 
as  possible  on  the  cob,  take  a  jdecc  of  sheet  iron, 
say  3  X  G  inches,  and  cut  or  file  some  teeth  in  one 
edge.  Let  the  tcctli  be  3-10  iu.  in  Icugth,  aud  a  little 


less  distance  apart.  Then  set  the  ear  on  end,  aud 
Avith  the  teeth  soj'ape  from  top  to  bottom  tAVO  or 
three  times,  Avbich  thoroughly  splits  the  kernels, 
and  with  tlie  btick  edge  scrape  it  clean.  This  can 
he  done  with  great  rapidity,  whether  the  corn  is 
previously  boiled  or  not.  Some  prefer  to  fasten 
the  iron  to  a  firm  block,  and  then  move  the  ear  first 
over  the  teeth,  and  then  over  a  smooth  edge, 
fastened  near  b}".” 

IVIaat  to  «lo  with.  Old  ISoot  Ciegs. — 

“Farmer”  Avrites  to  the  AgricvUurist ;  “Old  boot 
legs  are  Avorth  very  little  as  mending  material. 
The  best  use  that  I  have  found  for  them  is,  to  cut 
the'  legs  off  Ioav  doAvn,  draAV  the  legs  on,  put  on 
your  shoes,  letting  the  legs  come  low  doAvn  OA'er 
the  shoes.  If  plOAving,  or  Av.alking  through  mud, 
Avet  grass,  etc.,  put  your  pants  inside,  and  the  leg¬ 
gings  will  answer  about  as  well  as  a  pair  of  boots 
entire,  and  cost  about  half  as  much.” 

Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 


Bread  at  Sea. — A  correspondent  at  sea,  on 
the  U.  8.  Steamer,  Fort  Jackson,  inquires  hOAV  to 
make  good  bread  there,  Avhere  no  yeast  can  be  ob¬ 
tained.  Will  some  capable  landsAvoman  please  in¬ 
form  him.  The  same  instructions  Avill  also  be  Avel- 
come  to  several,  who  ask  hoAV  to  make  yeast  Avhen 
one  has  none  to  start  Avith. 

Christmas  l*Biddiiig  without  Hg'g's. 

— 1  lb.  of  raisins,  stoned,  1  lb.  of  currants,  washed 
and  dried,  1  lb.  beef  suet,  shred  very  fine,  1  lb. 
broAvn  sugar,  1  lb.  flour,  sifted,  candied  orange 
peel,  6  ozs.  bread  crumbs,  1  tcaspoonful  of  mixed 
spice,  X  pi'it  of  milk,  1  teaspoonful  salt,  the  out¬ 
side  rind  of  tAVO  large  carrots  scraped  fine ;  all  to 
be  Avell  mixed  together,  and  poured  into  a  mould 
aud  covered  Avith  thick  paper,  then  Avith  a  good 
cloth  and  tied  tight,  plunged  into  boiling  water 
and  kept  bmling  six  hours.  To  insure  a  pudding 
turning  out  Avhole,  it  is  a  good  plan  after  taking  it 
out  of  the  boiling  Avater  to  dip  it  instantly  into  cold. 

Mar«l  Molasses  CiiMgerhread.. — Take 
2%  cups  molasses,  %  cup  of  shortening,  butter  is 
preferable,  fill  the  cup  with  boiling  Avater,  stir  un¬ 
til  the  butter  is  dissolved,  a  tablespoonful  ginger, 
a  tcaspoonful  soda,  stir  quickly  ;  knead  with  flour 
enough  to  make  it  hard,  roll  thin,  bake  in  a  quick 
oven  twenty  minutes. 

Molasses  Sponge  Calse. — Mix  1  cup  of 
molasses,  1)4  of  flour,  3  eggs,  and  a  teaspoonful  of 
soda.  Bake  in  a  quick  oven. 

To  Clean  Ueese. — A  farmer’s  wife  says, 
after  pulling  off  the  feathers,  put  the  goose  in  a 
tub,  pulverize  some  rosin  and  rub  a  little  into  the 
doAvn  ;  then  pour  hot  Avater  upon  it  and  rub  off  the 
doAvn  Avith  the  hand.  Proceed  in  this  Avay  until 
all  the  doAvn  is  removed. 

ISesl;  Metliod.  for  Keeping  ISeef.— 
Cut  up  the  meat  in  pieces  as  large  .as  you  desire. 
Pack  it  in  a  barrel,  or  cask.  Then  make  a  brine  as 
folloAvs  :  lbs.  salt  to  1  gallon  Avater,  1  oz.  salt¬ 

petre  to  100  lbs.  beef,  1  tablespoonful  of  ground 
pepper  to  100  lbs.  beef.  Put  iu  the  salt  and  salt¬ 
petre  and  heat  it  boiling  hot,  skim  it,  then  add  the 
pepper.  Pour  it  on  the  beef  boiling  hot  and  cover 
closely.  Tour  meat  Avill  be  good  and  fresh  any 
time.  The  philosophy  is  this — The  hot  brine  closes 
the  pores  on  the  surface,  preventing  decay  aud  the 
meat  from  getting  too  salt.  Try  it.  If  necessary 
scald  the  brine  over  in  the  spring,  or  put  on  a  ucav 
brine.  Farmers  can  in  this  Avay  have  fresh  meat 
nearly  all  the  time.  The  meat  should  be  taken  as 
soon  as  it  is  cold,  before  it  has  acquired  any  old 
taste  by  exposure  to  the  atmosphere. 

Aisot.lici*  goo«l  Wiay  to  Iccep  Meat.— 

Cut  it  in  slices  ready  to  broil  or  fry  for  the  table. 
Then  putting  doAvn  iu  a  jar  one  lajdng  of  meat, 
sprinkle  Avith  salt  and  pepper,  and  so  continue  till 
the  jar  is  filled,  cover  closely  aud  set  iu  the  coolest 
part  of  the  cellar.  It  Avill  keep  a  long  time,  for  I 
aud  my  neigbors  have  tried  it.— A  Country  Woman, 


-41865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


319 


3B(0)Yi  &  (SdBlLWMM^o 


Enjoymen.t<^  at  Home. 


To  visit  one’s  neighbors  occasionally  is  pleasant  and 
profitable  ;  the  young  as  well  as  the  adult  should  learn 
by  practice  how  to  behave  in  society,  how  to  give  as 
well  as  receive  enjoyment.  But  it  is  a  mistake  to  look 
away  from  home  for  the  greatest  pleasure.  Rather  try 
to  make  home  the  happiest  place  in  the  world.  Have 
you  plenty  of  fruit,  apples,  pears,  peaches,  grapes,  straw¬ 
berries,  blackberries,  currants,  etc?  These  will  add 
much  pleasure  to  all  in  the  house,  and  to  visitors,  but 
none  will  enjoy  them  as  much  as  he  who  raises  them. 
Almost  every  boy  on  a  farm  can  do  something  at  this. 
He  can  learn  how  to  graft,  and  make  the  old  orchard 
teem  with  the  choicest  apples  ;  plant  pits  of  peaches, 
cherries,  etc.,  and  b>id  them,  with  the  best  varieties  ; 
take  cuttings  of  currants,  procure  plants  of  berries,  and 
in  a  few  years  have  abundance  of  luscious  fruit  of  his 
own  raising.  He  will  find  in  the  Agriculturist  from  lime 
to  time,  full  directions  for  cultivation,  pruning,  etc.,  and 
will  soon  become  an  interested  reader  of  the  men’s  col¬ 
umns  of  the  paper, 
and  thus  be  grow¬ 
ing  m.anly  himself. 

How  many  boys 
will  make  a  begin¬ 
ning  this  month 
by  setting  ont  a 
bed  of  strawber¬ 
ries,  from  which, 
with  proper  atten¬ 
tion,  they  may 
gather  some  fruit 
next  summer? 

Then  when  the 
leaves  have  fallen, 
invest  a  little  mon¬ 
ey  in  a  few  good 
grape  vines,  and 
so  on  as  the  season 
arrives,  get  the 
fruit  entei'prise  in¬ 
to  operation.  The 
pleasure  of  seeing 
your  plants  grow 
will  well  repay 
for  the  trouble, 
and  tile  fruit  and 
liraclical  knowl¬ 
edge  obtained  will 
be  clear  gain.— The  girls  may  cultivate  flowers,  and  them¬ 
selves  at  the  same  time  making  roses  bloom  in  the  yard 
and  on  their  own  cheeks,  and  thus  beautifying  the  whole 
household.  Then  there  will  be  the  insects  to  watch. 
Most  of  them  must  be  killed,  but  a  few  each  year  may  be 
caught,  caged,  fed  and  reared,  so  that  you  may  learn  all 
their  habits.  This  will  be  full  of  interest,  and  you  may 
make  observations  which  will  benefit  many  others. 
Every  boy  has  or  should  have  a  knife,  with  which  he  may 
whittle  out  many  amusing  and  useful  things  ;  windmills 
for  the  cornfield  ;  weather  vanes  for  the  barn  ,  figure  4 
traps  fur  the  rats,  etc.  Above  is  a  plan  for  a  very  comical 
weathercock.  Make  the  figure  of  a  man  say  about  a 
foot  high.  For  arms,  have  two  blades  set  like  those  of  a 
windmill,  and  let  them  be  fastened  at  the  shoulders  by  a 
wire  running  through  the  body,  in  which  it  should  turn 
freely.  Place  the  figure  on  an  upright  wire  fastened  on 
the  end  of  a  pole,  or  at  the  top  of  a  building.  This  wire 
should  pass  through  a  metal  plate  connecting  the  feet, 
and  at  the  point  where  it  supports  the  body,  insert  a  nail, 
so  that  the  whole  may  turn  easily.  Then  when  the  wind 
blows,  you  will  be  amused  to  see  the  queer  antics  the 
image  will  perform,  beating  the  air  with  his  cudgels,  and 
facing  about  right  and  left,  very  often  at  double  quick 
time.  One  which  tlie  writer  put  up  many  years  ago  is 
still  an  object  of  curiosity  to  the  passers,  who  frequently 
stop  to  watch  its  amusing  pranks.  With  plenty  of  such 
employments  which  young  people  may  find  for  their 
leisure,  there  need  be  no  complaint  of  dullness  at  home, 
or  desire  to  “go  somewhere”  to  find  enjoyment. 

Atbont  Weija^lits  anti  Measures. 

How  long  is  a  foot  ?  “  Twelve  inches,”  is  the  ready 
answer  of  the  girls  and  boys.  And  how  long  is  an  inch  ? 
“  Three  barley  corns,”  says  the  arithmetic.  But  some 
kernels  or  corns  of  barley  are  longer  than  others,  and  if 
the  yard  measure  of  some  storekeepers  were  to  be  made 
by  taking  these  as  a  standard,  they  would  certainly  pick 
out  ihe  very  shortest  ones.  Edward  II,  King  of  England, 
in  1324,  made  a  law  that  the  barley  corns  should  be  round 
and  dry  ;  this,  however,  was  a  very  loose  way  of  fixing 
the  standard,  and  wdthout  doubt  the  length  of  the  foot 
and  the  yard  varied  much  with  different  dealers.  A  va¬ 
riation  of  so  small  a  quantity  as  the  hundredth  part  of  an 


inch  in  the  measure  would  make  much  difference  in  the 
profits,  where  large  quantities  of  costly  goods  were  sold. 
In  the  years  1736  and  1742,  a  society  of  learned  men  in 
England,  by  comparison  of  tlie  standards  of  measure 
used  by  different  nations,  both  ancient  and  modern,  and 
by  other  means,  such  as  determining  the  length  of  a  pen¬ 
dulum  beating  seconds,  fixed  the  length  of  the  standard 
yard.  In  1758  and  1760,  the  English  Parliament  caused 
two  copies  of  this  standard  to  be  prepared,  and  adopted 
them  as  the  measure  by  which  all  others  in  the  kingdom 
were  to  be  regulated.  These  were  destroyed  by  fire  in 
1834,  and  it  was  a  more  difficult  matter  than  you  may  sup¬ 
pose  to  construct  another  which  should  be  exactly  like 
the  first.  There  were  of  course  thousands  of  copies  all 
over  the  kingdom,  each  of  them  accurate  enougli  for 
general  purposes,  but  yet  mostof  them  varied  very  slight¬ 
ly  from  each  other,  and  it  was  not  easy  to  tell  which  wms 
just  right.  In  adjusting  the  one  finally  adopted,  over 
200,000  measurements  were  made  under  the  microscope 
with  the  most  delicate  instruments.  Copies  of  this  stand¬ 
ard  were  early  introduced  into  this  country,  and  all  our 
measures  are  required  by  law  to  correspond  to  them. 

The  weights  in  use  in  England  and  the  United  States, 
were  originally  derived  from  the  weight  of  kernels  of 
grain.  Henry  III,  enacted  that  an  English  penny  should 
weigh  32  grains  of  wheat  gathered  out  of  the  middle  of 
the  ear  and  well  dried;  20  pence  (pennyweights)  to  an 
ounce,  and  12  ounces  a  pound.  The  pound  avoirdupois 
contains  7000  grains.  Standards  for  the  pound  Troy  were 
made  in  1758,  by  Mr.  Bird,  the  same  gentleman  who  pre¬ 
pared  the  standard  yard.  The  standard  of  the  gallon  is 
a  vessel  containing  53,372.2  grains  ;  the  bushel  contains 
543,391.89  grains.  Copies  of  these  are  kept  at  Washing¬ 
ton,  and  also  at  the  Capitals  of  the  several  States. 

I>o  you  Know  Iiow  to  Head? 

Not  many  boys  or  girls,  or  even  men  or  women  have 
learned  how  to  read.  “  But  you  do  not  mean  here  in  the 
United  States,”  says  some  one  who  is  surprised  that  the 
truth-telling  Agriculturist  should  make  such  a  statement. 
Yes,  we  are  thinking  and  writing  about  our  own  country, 
where  schools  are  so  plenty,  and  where  it  is  thought  al¬ 
most  disgraceful  for  any  person  to  grow  up  ignorant  of 
reading  and  writing.  Not  long  since  the  writer  saw  a 
boy  with  a  book  he  had  taken  from  a  library,  which  he 
seemed  to  be  reading  very  industriously.  He  turned  over 
page  after  page,  and  in  a  few  hours  closed  the  volume 
saying  “I  have  read  that  through.”  “  And  what  was  it 
about?”  we  asked.  “Oh  about  the  Indians,  and  the 
Spaniards  and  English  who  first  came  to  this  country. 
“  What  about  the  English  ?”  “  Oh  I  don’t  know  exactly  ; 
they  fought  with  the  Indians,  and  got  their  lands  away 
from  them,  and  settled  the  country.”  A  few  more  ques¬ 
tions  proved  that  this  lad  had  been  very  patiently  calling 
oflf  the  words  in  the  book,  but  that  he  had  received  and 
kept  very  few  of  the  thoughts  which  the  words  were 
meant  to  convey  to  his  mind.  He  had  gained  very  little 
knowledge,  only  a  few  scraps,  which  floated  loosely  in 
his  memory,  and  which  would  all  be  gone  in  a  few  weeks 
at  farthest.  Now  it  is  believed  that  more  than  one  half 
of  all  that  is  called  reading  is  done  in  this  way  ;  the 
names  of  the  words  are  called,  and  that  is  ail.  What 
would  be  thought  of  a  boy  who  should  swallow  chest¬ 
nuts  whole  ?  How  much  pleasure  would  he  have  in 
eating  them  ?  How  much  nourishment  would  he  receive 
from  them  ?  Now  every  sentence  is  like  a  shell  contain¬ 
ing  an  idea,  and  whoever  merely  receives  the  words 
without  getting  the  idea,  takes  his  mental  nuts  uncracked. 
This  is  one  reason  why  so  few  are  really  fond  of  read¬ 
ing.  They  have  not  learned  to  feed  the  mind  by  it.  He 
who  rightly  reads  a  book,  has  taken  the  ideas  it  contains 
and  made  them  his  own  thoughts.  Then  he  can  com¬ 
pare  them,  sift  out  the  good  ones,  and  lay  them  up  in  his 
memory  with  other  knowledge  for  future  use.  To  do 
this  requires  that  the  mind  be  kept  actively  at  work  while 
the  reading  is  going  on.  At  first  it  may  be  necessary  to 
read  a  page  over  many  times  before  the  attention  can  be 
so  fixed  that  all  the  ideas  can  be  held  by  the  mind.  But 
it  is  better  to  read  a  book  six  times  and  thus  know  what 
is  in  it,  than  to  skim  six  books  without  retaining  what  they 
teach.  In  reading  many  works,  especially  descriptions, 
it  will  be  of  great  help  to  the  student  to  imagine  just  how 
each  scene  looks  ;  to  try  and  make  a  picture  of  it  in  the 
mind.  If  a  representation  or  map  showing  the  thing  or 
place  described  can  be  had,  it  will  be  a  great  help,  and 
should  be  constantly  used.  Those  who  studied  the  news 
from  the  war  in  this  way,  as  it  came  day  by  day,  have  a 
clear  idea  of  the  great  operations  of  our  armies,  and 
will  remember  them  much  more  eakily.  Whoever  learns 
to  read  in  this  way,  passing  over  nothing  which  is  not 
made  clear  to  the  understanding,  and  deeply  impressed 
on  the  memory,  will  have  the  surest  foundation  for  a  good 
education.  An  excellent  practice  is  to  read  a  page  or  a 
chapter,  and  then  try  to  write  out  the  ideas  in  one’s  own 
language.  Practice  will  make  it  easy,  and  the  habit 
_  formed  while  young,  will  be  lasting,  and  of  incalculable 
benefit,  especially  if  propei’  care  be  taken  to  read  only 


good  books  ;  and  it  will  be  found  that  the  love  of  reading 
in  this  way  will  increase  with  each  new  volume  with 
which  the  mind  is  fed. 

Invading'  I'ostag'c 

It  is  related  that  at  one  time  the  poet  Coleridge  stopped 
at  a  country  inn  just  as  the  postman  brought  a  letter  for 
the  servant  girl.  She  looked  at  it  and  asked  “  How  much 
postage?”  “One  shilling”  (24  cents),  was  the  reply. 
Sighing  deeply  she  handed  it  back  saying  she  was  too 
poor  to  pay  it.  Coleridge,  though  poor  himself,  immedi¬ 
ately  offered  to  pay  it,  which  he  did  in  spite  of  some 
rather  surprising  nods  and  winks  from  the  girl  to  prevent 
his  doing  so.  When  the  postman  had  gone,  she  confessed 
that  the  letter  contained  no  writing.  Owing  to  the  very 
high  rate  of  postage,  this  girl  and  her  brother  had  con¬ 
trived  a  set  of  hieroglyphics  to  be  used  on  the  outside  of 
their  letters,  by  which  they  communicated  with  each  oth¬ 
er,  without  paying.  A  few  years  after  this,  by  the  exer¬ 
tions  of  Sir  Rowland  Hill,  postage  was  reduced  to  one 
penny  per  letter,  and  there  remained  no  excuse  for  such 
contrivances  to  cheat  the  Post  Office. 

I®wi2!2!les  t®  l>e  AMS’W'ered. 

No.  175.  Arithmetical  Question, — A  and  B  traveled  on 
the  same  road  and  at  the  same  rate  from  Jarrettsville  to 
Cooptown.  At  the  50th  mile-stone  from  Cooptow  n,  A  over¬ 
took  a  drove  of  geese  which  were  proceeding  at  the  rate 
of  3  miles  in  2  hours  ;  and  2  hours  afterwards  met  a  stage 
wagon,  which  was  moving  at  the  rate  of  9  miles  in  4 
hours.  B  overtook  the  same  drove  of  geese  at  the  45th 
mile-stone,  and  met  the  same  stage  wagon  exactly  40 
minutes  before  he  came  to  the  31st  mile-sdone.  Where 
was  B  when  X  reached  Cooptown.  Please  send  solutions. 


No.  176.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Worth  remembering. 


No.  177.  Charade. — I  am  composed  of  17  letters.  My 
1,  4,  8, 10,  17,  5,  13  were  much  needed  in  tiie  late  war. 
My  1,  2,  16,  4,  9,  13,  17  is  the  offspring  and  the  bane  of 
liberty.  My  13,  2,  1,  4,  9,  16,  17  is  a  rare  virtue,  much 
practised  by  a  great  General.  My  1,  8,  10,  7  is  a  general 
favorite  who  often  indulges  in  my  14,  17,  8,  5,  13,  and  who 
never  should  be  a  11,  2,  1,  6.  My  10,  4,  3,  6  is  ow-ed  by 
most  who  engage  in  my  3,  12,  13,  2,  9,  4,  13.  My  whole 
forms  the  pillars  of  the  Republic. 


No.  178.  Illustrated  Rebus. — A  very  serious  question. 


Asiswers  to  a.ii4l  Puzzlcat. 

Tlie  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
August  and  September  numbers.  On  page  255,  No.  169. 

Rrolific  Word. — Brained _ No.  170.  Illustrated  Rebus. — 

Beak  wick  tool  urn  th  eel  s  son  switch  e  vents  tea  ch,  or  : 
Be  quick  to  learn  the  lessons  which  events  teach  —  No. 

172.  Illustrated  Rebus.— Sum  boy  in  the  U.  S.  by  patient 

in  dust  tree  is  pre  paring  hymns  elf  four  the  President  C, 
or:  Some  boy  in  the  United  States  by  patient  industry,  is 
preparing  hiinself  for  the  presidency  —  No.  173.  Cha¬ 
rade.— The  American  Agriculturist - On  page  287.  No. 

173.  Ilhistrated  Rebus. — Better  B  poor  and  good  than 
rich  and  good  for  nothing  —  No.  174.  Illustrated  Rebus. 
B  under  nose  in  four  nose  laver  e  is  half  so  pane  fool,  or : 
Be  under  no  sin,  for  no  slavery  is  half  so  painful. 

The  following  have  sent  in  correct  answers  up  to  Sep¬ 
tember  loth  ;  Wm.  H.  Paine,  162,  165  ;  Carrie  Nevins, 
162,  165  ;  Charles  E.  Bishop,  162,  165  ;  Jim  R.  Hale,  165  ; 
Daniel  R.  Ilosterman,  161,  162,  163;  Lyman  H.  Basset, 
166  ;  J.  M.  Johnson,  168  ;  James  A.  Dorsey,  161,  162,  165  ; 
Sala.  165  ;  John  C.  Green,  162, 16.5  ;  Samuel  A.  Sims,  173 ; 
John  G.  Bundy,  162;  Elma  M.  Taber,  172;  George  L. 
Brown,  172  ;  Waller  S.  Wales,  169,  171  ;  Lucy  R.  Weeks, 
169,  173  ;  Robert  G.  Weeks,  172,  173  ;  “  0  L.  S.,”  172, 173. 


320 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[October, 


A  STITCH  IN  TIME.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  AgricuUuriU. 


Stilc5ic.s  ]^’eed.ed  tto  l»c  'E’alccn, 

Tills  careful  mother  is  teaching  her  little  girl  one  of  the 
most  important  lessons,  and  we  give  the  pleasing  picture 
that  the  many  thousand  young  readers  of  the  Agricultur¬ 
ist  may  have  the  benefit  of  the  instruction.  A  stitch  in 
time  in  the  girl’s  dress  will  save  the  great  rent  and  the 
many  stitches  needed  to  mend  it,  which  would  surely  fol¬ 
low  a  day’s  play  in  the  slightly  tom  garment.  But  that 
is  not  the  most  important  stitch  being  taken  :  the  child  is 
learning  the  habit  of  carefulness.  If  permitted  to  go  un¬ 
heeded,  the  habit  of  neglect  would  Increase  day  by  day, 
not  only  about  her  clothing,  but  in  other  things,  and  a 
thriftless,  untidy  young  woman  would  be  the  result ;  then 
it  would  take  yeais  of  careful  training  to  overcome  the 
evil.  There  is  many  a  smali  defect  in  the  habits  of  young 
peopie  that  may  be  easily  mended  now,  which  will  in¬ 
crease  to  a  great  blemish,  and  perhaps  finally  ruin  the 
whole  char.icler  if  left  unchecked.  Those  thoiiglitless, 
half  profane  words  may  grow  into  shocking  oaths  ;  that 
love  of  felling  large  stories,  tind  small  deceit  in  words 
and  actions,  may  make  the  man  a  liar  ;  impatience,  fret¬ 
fulness,  and  anger  may  increase  to  unbridled  passion, 
revenge  and  murder.  All  great  sins  and  wrongs  grow 
from  small  beginnings,  which  may  be  set  right  almost  ;is 
easily  as  a  spark  may  bo  extinguished,  but  like  the  spark, 
if  left  unnoticed,  they  .spread  to  great  mischief  with  fear¬ 
ful  speed.  Let  every  girl  take  tlio  stitch  in  time,  in  all 
her  habits,  and  let  the  boys  follow  the  good  example. 

TIic  Inventor  of  Sewiiij™’  IVlncliinctii. 

Elias  llowc,  Jr.,  was  born  in  Spencer,  M.ass.,  in  1820. 
He  was  the  son  of  a  miller  and  farmer,  and  worked  with 
his  father  until  sixteen  years  old,  when  ho  found  employ¬ 
ment  at  Lowell.  Mass.  In  1837,  the  financial  crisis  threw 
him  out  of  employment  there,  and  he  engaged  to  work 
with  a  philosophical  instrument  maker  in  Itoston.  While 
there,  a  knilthig  machine  was  brought  to  the  shop  for  re¬ 
pairs,  and  some  one  looking  at  it,  casually  remarked 


that  whoever  could  invent  a  sewing  machine,  would  be 
sure  of  a  fortune.  This  remark  took  strong  hold  of  Howe’s 
thoughts,  and  awakened  his  inventive  genius  to  attempt 
the  undertaking.  For  a  long  time  he  spent  his  leisure  iii 
making  stitches  of  various  kinds  and  contriving  what 
could  be  performed  in  this  line 
by  machinery.  After  many 
trials  .and  repeated  discourage¬ 
ments,  in  1846  he  patented  his 
invention,  and  his  first  ma¬ 
chine  then  made,  the  work  of 
his  own  hands,  may  now  be 
seen  in  his  store  window  at 
No.  029  Broadway,  in  this  city. 

It  is  certainly  worthy  to  be 
purchased  by  the  women  of 
this  country  and  sacredly  kept 
in  some  public  institution 
where  future  generations  may 
be  gratified  in  ins])ecting  it. 

The  sewing  machine  was  now- 
finished,  but  Howe  found  his 
troubles  only  commenced. 

The  tailors  were  greatly  pre¬ 
judiced  against  it.  fearing  it 
would  destroy  their  business. 

They  threatened  to  mob  an 
Irish  tailor  who  had  agreed  to 

cut  a  suit  of  clothes  for  Mr.  Howe,  to  be  made  up  on  the 
machine.  But  a  Yankee  was  found  with  courage 
enough  to  undertake  it,  and  Mr.  Howe  still  has  some  of 
the  garments  then  made  on  his  machine.  The  invention 
met  with  so  little  favor  at  first,  that  Mr.  Howe,  who  had 
sold  his  patent  in  England,  for  a  small  sum,  w-ent  to  that 
country  to  superintend  the  construclion  of  machines  ; 
but  he  met  with  such  poor  success  that  he  was  obliged 
to  pawn  his  original  model,  and  in  1S49,  ho  returned  to 
.America,  working  his  passage  ns  cook.  Arriving  at  New- 
York  he  had  not  money  enough  to  take  him  to  his  family. 


although  he  heard  his  wife  was  very  ill,  and  he  went  to 
work  as  a  journeyman  mechanic  to  procure  funds.  Be¬ 
fore  he  could  earn  enough  to  return  home,  his  wife  died. 
Soon  he  found  that  unprincipled  persons  were  infringing 
his  patent,  and  to  secure  his  rights  he  prevailed  upon  his 
father  to  raise  money  by  mortgaging  his  small  property. 
Then  he  sacrificed  half  his  patent  to  a  capitalist  to  raise 
more  means,  and  long  years  and  immense  suras  of 
money  were  spent  in  lawsuits,  to  defend  his  invention. 
However,  the  right  at  last  prevailed,  and  in  1856,  the  full 
possession  of  his  patent  was  secured.  Peace  and  pros¬ 
perity  now  followed,  but  he  considers  even  the  large 
sums  since  l  ealized  a  poor  compensation  for  the  terrible 
trials  through  which  he  was  obliged  to  pass.  The  lesson 
of  this  tru^story  is,  that  perseverance  and  eneigy  are 
necessary  to  success,  even  in  the  most  promising  under¬ 
takings.  It  adds  not  a  little  to  the  luster  of  Mr.  Howe’s 
character,  that  when  the  rebellion  broke  out,  he  raised  a 
regiment  to  aid  the  government  at  his  own  expense,  en¬ 
listed  in  the  ranks  as  a  privats,  and  did  efficient  service. 

A  Miiacl  Act  ISewarded. 

A  short  lime  since  a  one-armed  soldier  entered  a 
crowded  rail-road  car  in  the  city  of  Chicago.  He  looked 
very  w'eary,  but  none  moved  to  give  him  a  seat,  until  a 
neatly  dressed  young  woman  observing  his  empty  blue 
sleeve,  arose,  and  asked  him  to  take  her  place.  At  the 
sound  of  her  voice  he  looked  up,  their  eyes  met,  and  im¬ 
mediately  they  were  clasped  in  each  others  arms,  and 
she  was  sobbing  for  joy  on  his  shoulder.  The  young 
woman  was  the  soldier’s  wife,  from  whom  he  had  been 
separated  three  long  years.  He  had  been  wounded  and 
taken  prisoner,  and  his  wife  having  lost  all  trace  of  him. 
had  removed  from  their  former  residence  to  Chicago,  so 
that  when  he  w  as  released,  his  letters  failed  to  reach  her 
and  he  could  hear  nothing  from  her.  He  had  gone  to 
Chicago  in  search  of  her,  and  thus  by  this  kind  act  of 
hers  they  were  so  happily  restored  to  each  other. 

I®ortrait  of  Claicf  Jmslice]  CI»ase. 

The  Evening  Post  relates  the  following  amusing  in¬ 
cident:  During  the  recent  southern  tour  of  Chief  Justice 
Chase,  formerly  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  w  bile  at  Key 
West,  he  visited  a  somewhat  noted  negro.  This  man  is 
said  to  be  strongest  person  in  all  Florida,  and  he  possesses 
strength  of  character  as  well  as  of  body.  He  was  former¬ 
ly  a  slave  in  Maryland,  but  by  over-work  purchased  his 
freedom  w  hile  yet  young,  removed  to  Key  West,  where 
he  prospered,  and  is  now  the  owner  of  a  large  plantation. 
He  very  politely  conducted  Mr.  Chase  over  his  grounds, 
pointed  out  the  various  fruit  trees,  etc.,  and  was  himself 
greatly  pleased  with  his  visitor.  Finally,  when  they  re¬ 
turned  to  the  house  and  were  seated  on  the  verandah,  the 
colored  man  said  he  w'ould  like  very  much  to  have  a 
portr.ait  of  his  guest.  Mr.  Chase,,havlng  no  photograph, 
took  from  his  pocket  aone-dollar  Greenback  and  handed 
to  him.  The  negro  looked  first  at  the  picture  on  the  end, 
then  at  Mr.  Chase,  and  at  last  in  his  surprise  broke  out 
“'Why  you’s  Old  Greenbacks  hisself,  isn’t  you?”  Mr. 
Chase  greatly  enjoyed  the  incident,  and  the  negro  equal¬ 
ly  so,  for  he  added  “  If  I  lives  fifty  years,  I  shall  always 
remember  sure,  just  how  you  and  I  was  sitting  together.” 


Siiig'iilai’  Features  in  a  Hianrtseape. 

The  girls  and  boys  who  know  how  to  use  their  eye-s 
and  to  find  out  all  that  a  picture  contains,  will  be  pleased 
to  discover  the  curious  features  in  this  landscape.  We 
do  not  know  that  any  such  formation  of  rocks  and  shrubs 
actually  exists,  though  it  is  not  impossible.  It  is  not 
more  w’onderful  than  the  “  Old  Man  of  the  Mountain,” 
shown  in  our  last  number.  Probably,  however,  our  artist 
has  drawn  on  his  imagination  for  this  scene,  witli  a  view 
to  exercise  the  perceptive  or  invesligating  faculties  of  our 
young  readers.  Now  see  what  you  can  find  in  the  picture 


1805.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST 


3Q1 


(Business  notices — $1  25  per  agiite  line  of  space.) 

AGENTS  WANTED. 

NEW  AND  POPULAR  WORK, 

G-RANT  AND  SHERMAN  : 

Tlieir  Campaigns  and  Generals, 

By  Hon.  J.  T.  HEADLEY,  Author  of  “  Washington 
and  his  Generals.”  In  one  octavo  volume — over  600 
l)ages,  with  30  Steel  Portraits. 

Mr.  Headley’s  popularity  as  a  historian,  his  extensive 
acquaintance  with  government  Officials,  and  access  to 
official  docuirienis,  place  the  authenticity  of  the  work 
bevond  a  doubt. 

It  promises  to  be  one  of  tlie  most  popular  books  which 
the  war  has  inspired,  and  the  only  one  that  can  lay  claim 
to  corirpleteness  as  a  panorama  of  the  wav.— Cleveland 
Leader. 

This  book  is  destined  to  arouse  a  greater  interest  than 
any  other  work  from  the  pen  of  this  distinguished  author. 
— N.  Y.  Evangelist. 

SOLD  ONLY  BY  AGENTS.— To  experienced  agents 
and  all  seeking  profitable  em|)loyment,  a  rare  chance  is 
offered  to  make  money.  Semi  stamp  at  once  for  terms 
and  territory.  E.  B.  TREAT  &  CO., 

130  Grand-street,  New-York. 

Tlie  Mttle  Corporal. 

[From  Forney's  Philadelphia  Press,  August  22,  1865.1 

We  have  read  the  first  two  numbers  of  The  Little  Cor¬ 
poral,  a  new  child’s  paper,  edited  and  published  by  Mr. 
Alfred  L.  Sewell,  Chicago,  Illinois.  Judging  from  the 
appearance  of  the  two  numbers  that  are  now  before  us, 
The  Little  Corporal  is  destined  to  become  the  great 
children’s  paper  of  America.  The  portrait  of  our  late 
President,  Mr.  Lincoln,  and  his  son  Tad,  which  is  pre- 
senteii  to  each  subscriber,  is  a  fine  steel'  engraving,  and 
generally  acknowledged  to  be  the  best  of  the  many  like¬ 
nesses  of  Mr.  Lincoln. 


Terms  one  dollar  a  year.  Specimen  copies  ten  cents. 
Address  ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 

Care  of  Dunlop,  Sewell  ^  Spalding; 

Chicago,  Illinois. 

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'THIE  HOIt.TICUI,TUKIST, 

Published  Monihly.  $-'.50  per  annum.  Specimen 
numbers  10  cents,  post-paid. 

GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Publishers, 


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CARBINE  T 

Forty  different  styles,  adapted  to  sacred  and  secular 
music,  for  $80  to  $600  each.  THIRTY-FIVE  GOLD 
or  SILVER  MEDALS,  or  oilier  first  premiums  awarded 
them.  Illustrated  Catalogues  free.  Address 

MASON  &  HAMLIN,  Boston, 

Or,  MASON  BROTHERS,  New-York. 


THE  CELEBRATED  CRAIG  MICROSCOPE. 

The  best  and  cheapest  Microscope  for  general  use, 
magnifying  about  100  diameters,  or  10,000  limes,  yet  so 
simple  that  a  child  can  use  it;  mailed,  pre-paid,  for  $2.50  ; 
or  wilh  6  beautiful  Mounted  Objects  for  $3.25  ;  or  with 
24  Objects,  for  $5.50,  by  HENRY  CR.AIG,  180  Centre- 
street,  New-York. 


THE  GREAT 

FAMIIilT  MEWSPAPEK. 

NOW  IS  THE  TIME  TO  SUBSCRIBE. 

THE 

fflW-lRK  WBBKM  TRIBUNE 

is  printed  on  a  large  double-medium  sheet,  making  eight 
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The  Reports  of  the  American  Institute,  Farmers’  Club, 
and  the  various  Agricultural  Reports,  in  each  number, 
are  richly  worth  a  year’s  subscription.  Read  what  a 
subscriber  in  St.  Louis  says : 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  July  16th,  1865. 
The  Editor  of  The  Tribune. 

Dear  Sir. — I  have  had  it  in  contemplation  for  some 
time,  to  write  and  tell  you  of  the  pleasure  I  get  from  the 
weekly  perusal  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Farmers’  Club  ; 
first  I  will  tell  you  how  recently  I  became  aware  of  its 
existence.  About  the  1st  of  September,  1863,  I  noticed 
an  advertisement,  and  a  cut  of  the  Tribune  Strawberries 
and  immediately  subscribed  for  the  Weekly  Tribune,  in 
wliich  I  found  the  proceedings  of  your  Club.  I  have 
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necessity,  and  I  look  for  Monday  as  red  letler  day  in  my 
calendar,  and  was  I  to  be  confined  to  one  agricultural 
paper  alone,  should  prefer  The  Tribune  to  anything  I 
have  yet  seen.  Yours,  JOHN  HENWOOD. 

Another  subscriber  writes ; 

I  neglected  (forgot)  to  renew  tny  subscription  to 
The  Tribune,  until  so  late  that  I  missed  the  first  July 
No.  Can  you  help  me  to  it  ?  Portions  of  the  Fanners’ 
Club  reports  in  that  number  particularly  I  wish  to  pre¬ 
serve.  In  fact,  that  feature  of  the  paper  constitutes  one 
of  the  main  reasons  why  I  take  it.  And  I  have  no  doubt, 
that  it  receives  a  goodly  share  of  its  patronage  from  per¬ 
sons  who  wish  it  well,  but  would  not  otherwise  bring 
themselves  to  the  subscribing  point. 

Yours  truly,  O.  A.  ALEXANDER. 

Waynesville,  III.,  July  25. 

TEEMS. 

Mall  subscribers,  single  copy,  1  year— 33  numbers . $  3  00 

do  Clubs  of  five . ’ .  9  00 

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Drafts  oil  New  York,  or  Post-office  orders,  payable  to  the 
order  of  “The  Tribune,”  being  safer,  are  preferable  to  any 
other  mode  of  remittance.  Address 

THE  TRIBUNE,  New-York. 

S.  D.  &  H,  W,  SAIITH’S 
AMEKICAM  ©KftAMS, 

These  Instruments  are  tlie  BEST  of  the  kind  made, 
far  superior  to  the  Common  Organ,  Harmonium  or  Melo- 
deon.  In  fullness  and  perfectness  of  Tone,  they  surpass 
all  others,  and  as  an  elegant  piece  of  Furniture,  tliey  ex¬ 
cel  in  beauty.  For  the  Church,  Lecture  or  Lodge  Room, 
they  have  no  equal; 

Send  for  Descriptive  Circulars,  and  address  all  orders 
to  SIBERIA  OTT,  Wholesale  Agent, 

748  Broadway,  New-York. 


BOARDMAN,  GR.iY  &  CO’S 

THE  SUBSCRIBER,  late  one  of  the  firm,  has  taken 
the  WHOLESALE  AGENCY,  and  .will  furnish  these 
PI.'VNOS  to  dealers  and  the  public,  at  the  very  lowest 
prices.  Send  for  Circulars,  and  address  all  orders 
SIBERIA  OTT,  746  Broadway,  New-York. 

'  P  I  A  W  O  S  . 

BRADBURY’S  PIAUD  FORTES, 

'JUtE  BEST.?’ 

“  They  are  the  best  square  piano-fortes  I  have  ever 
played  upon.” — Harry  Sanderson. 

“  They  are  very  superior  instruments.” — Gottschalk. 

“  They  possess  in  the  highest  degree  all  the  essentials 
of  a  perfect  piano.”— WiZZi'am  Mason. 

“  I  admire  them  in  the  highest  degree.”— G.  W.  Morgan. 
Call  or  send  for  circulars,  with  illustrations  and  testi¬ 
monials  of  the  most  eminent  artists  and  amateurs. 

WM.  B.  BRADBURY, 

Nos.  425  &  427  Broome-st.,  New-York. 


THE  PEOPLE’S  BOOK, 

Tlie  IS®©k  for  Agents 

IS 

LLOYD’S 

BA^TTLE  HISTOBY 

OF  THE 

GREA'r  REBELLION. 

From  the  capture  of  FORT  SUMTER,  April  14,  1861, 
to  the  capture  of  JEFFERSON  DAVIS,  May  10,  1865. 
Completely  Illustrated 
By 

268  Battle  Bescriirtions, 

39  JSiog-rapIiical  Sketches, 

4:  Steel  I®oi’traits, 

45  Blectrotype  I’oi-traits, 

1'?'  JFiiie  jHaps, 

13  Battle  Bictiires, 

and  a 

PHILOSOPHICAL 

REVIEW  OF  THE  WAR. 

Complete  in  one  Royal  octavo  volume.  Ornamented 
and  Bound  in  the  most  attractive  styles.  Prices  $4.50 
and  $5.00.  With  unsurpassed  facilities  we  believe  we 
have  produced  the  best  and  most  salable  book  pertaining 
to  the  war. 

AGENTS  wishing  to  secure  exclusive  riglits  must 
apply  ijnmediately  to 

'  M.  H.  LJLBY.B  &  C€>., 

21  jGliii-street,  New-Yorfe., 

'  VICK’S  ” 

Illustrated  Catalog-ue 

OF 

ffiUJILIBS, 

AND 

CriiWe  in  tlie  Flower  ©ardeii, 
FOR  1865, 

IS  HOW  PUBLISHEI). 

IT  lOOKTAlNS  ACCURATE  '  DESCKIPTIOKS  OF  THE  BEET 

HYACINTHS,  TULIPS,  CROCUSES,  SNOW 
DROPS,  CROWN  IMPERIALS,  ANE¬ 
MONES,  LILIES, 

AND  OTHER  HARDY  BULBS  FOR  FALL  PLANTING. 
WITH  FULL  AND  PLAIN 

DIRECTIONS  FOR  PLANTING  AND  CULTURE 

IN  THE  GARDEN,  AND  IN  GLASSES  AND  POTS  FOR  WINTER 
FLOWERING. 

Illnstrated  with  Nimcrons  Engravings  and  Col¬ 
ored  Plate. 

This  Annual  is  published  for  the  information  and  benefit 
of  my  customers,  and  to  them  it  Nvill  be  sent  free  without 
application.  To  all  others,  10  cents,  includinjc  postage 
Address  JAMES  VICK, 

IV.  Y. 


THE  luA»IES  LIKE  IT  !  ! ! 

Thousands  of  the  SEWING  RIPPER  have  been  sold 
and  not  a  single  complaint  made.  It  takes  out  a  seam 
rapidly  and  safely,  whether  sewed  by  hand  or  by  ma¬ 
chine,  is  neat,  small,  does  not  get  out  of  order,  and  is 
needed  in  every  lady’s  work  basket.  Agents  wanted. 

Send  50  cents  for  a  sample  to 

A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York  City. 

WHEEK.EIS  &  WIS.SON5S 

Lock  Stitch  Sewing  Machine. 
Mo.  625  Broadway,  Wew-Yorfe. 

and  others  who  have  lost  their 
Limbs  will  find  wagons  to  propel  themselves  at 
LEWIS  TIBBALS,  510  Broadway.  New  York, 
directly  opposite  St.  Nicholas  Hotel.  Also  Children's  Cai‘- 
riages,  Baby  Tenders,  Spring  and  Cantering  Horses,  Swings, 
and  Toys,  L.  TIBBALS, 


S23 


AMERICAN  ACRIGULTtJRlST. 


[October, 


^blruiisemeiits. 

Advertisoments,  to  be  sure  of  insertion,  must  be  re¬ 
ceived  BEFOKE  the  10th  of  the  preceding  month. 

Pif.  — JVo  Advertisement  of  Patent  Afedicines  or  secret 
remedies  desired.  Parties  xinknown  to  the  Editors  persoj^U 
ly  or  by  reputation,  are  requested  to  furnish  good  references. 
We  desire  to  be  sure  that  advertisers  icill  do  xohat  they  prom¬ 
ise  to  do.  By  living  xtp  to  these  requiremenis,  xce  aim  to 
make  the  advertising  pages  x)aluable  not  only  to  the  readers, 
but  to  the  advertisei's  themselves. 

TEIilHS—  (cash  before  insertion) : 

One  Dollar  per  line,  (14  lines  in  an  inch),  for  each  insertion. 

One  half  column  (74  lines),  ^6.7  each  insertion. 

One  xohole  columxi  (148  lines),  $120  each  insertion. 

Business  Notices,  One  Dollar  and  a  (Quarter  per  line. 


GRAPE  VINES: 

Iona  and  Israella,  with  all 
other  ValiiaMc  Hardy  Kiiad§, 

INCLTJDIKG  LARGE  STOCKS  OF 

X>el£twai*e  and  I>iana. 

My  own  Publications  give  the  Results  of 
long  and  extensive  Practice,  and  recom¬ 
mend  only  wliat  I  have  found  to 
he  advantageous. 

For  the  purpose  of  meeting  the  wants  of  the  times  in  re¬ 
gard  to  the  knowledge  of  tlie  Vine  and  its  management,  I 
have  issued  several  publications  which  are  tlie  result  of 
many  years’  extended  practice  and  careful  observation. 

They  are  named  and  sent  as  follows : 

“OUR  WATIVE  grapes;  with  an  account 
of  our  Four  Best  Kinds,’’  with  price-lists, 
constituting  a  pamphlet  of  twenty-four  pages.  Sent  for 


two-cent  stamp. 

DESCRIPTIVE  CATALOGUE .  10  cents. 

ILLUSTRATED  CATALOGUE . 25  cents. 

MANUAL  OP  THE  VINE . 50  cents. 


CJHEAT  SAEE 
of  Thoroughbred  Ayrshires, 

and  thoroughbred  JERSEY  STOCK,  at  Auction. 
■'Vlll  he  sold  at  the  Giles  Farm,  South  Woodstock,  Conn., 
2>^  miles  from  Putnam  Station,  on  the  Norwich  and  Worces¬ 
ter  K.  R.,  on  Wednesday,  October  18,  1865.  Sale 
to  commence  at  1  P.  M.  JOHN  E.  PAGE,  Auctioneer. 

AYKSMSKES. 

Thirty  Heads  of  Cows,  Heifers,  and  Bulls,  among  them  is 
the  celebrated  Cow  JANE  ARMOUR,  imported  by  H.  H. 
Peters,  Esq.,  and  many  other  valuable  imported  animals. 

.^EEiSEYS. 

Twenty  head  of  cows  and  heifers,  the  cows  now  in  milk 
and  all  served  by  a  pure  Jersey  bull.  Some  of  the  cows  will 
drop  their  calves  iu  December  and  February  next.  The 
Subscribers  would  beg  to  call  the  attention  of  those  wanting 
pure  bred  stock,  the  Ayrshires  being  deep  milkers,  tlie 
Jerseys  liaving  given  from  12  to  IG  lbs  of  butter  each  the 
past  season  per  week.  With  coufldence,  we  say  such  fine 
herds  of  Ayrshire  and  Jersey  stock  were  never  offered  on 
this  continent  at  public  sale  before. 

Catalogues  can  he  obtained  ten  days  before  the  sale,  by 
applying  to  tlie  Auctioneer  or  the  Subscribers. 

JOHN  GILES,  )  II.  N.  THURBER, 

South  Woodstock,  Conn.  J  Pomlret  Landing,  Conn. 

T^EW  YORK  COLLEGE  OF  VETERINARY 
-Lw  SURGEONS,  No.  119  Lexington  Avenue,  New-York 
City  (Incorporated  1&57),  is  now  open  for  the  medical  treat¬ 
ment  of  Horses  and  other  domestic  Animals.  The  regular 
course  of  Medical  Lectures  will  commence  November  6tb, 
18C5,  and  terminate  tlie  last  of  Februai-}-,  18C6. 

MEDICAL  FACULTY. 

A.  F.  Liautard,  M.  D.,  Y.  S . Anatomy. 

A.  S.  Copeman,  V.  S . Pathology  and  Microscope. 

A.  Large,  M.  D.,  V.  S . Surgery  and  Physiology. 

J.  Rusfead,  M.  D . Materia  Medica  and  Therapeutics. 

Lecture  Fees  for  tlie  course,  $105.  For  circulars  and  any 
furtlier  information,  address  Dr.  Bustead,  President  New- 
A’ork  College  Veterinary  Surgeons,  179  Lexington  Avenue. 

A.  F.  LIAUTARD,  M.  D.,  V.  S.,  Registrar. 

WEBB  SOUTH  DOWNS, 

rriiii'ty  Ewes, 

Twenty  Five  Ewe  Lambs, 

Twenty  Ram  Lambs  and  Yearlings, 

the  get  of  Archbishop,  for  sale  this  Fall. 

GEO.  H.  BROWN,  Millbrook,  Wasliington  Hollow, 
Dutchess  Co,  N.  Y. 


Tlie  CSi’eatest  of  I-iiviiag'  Statesmen. 
RITCHIE’S  IMPERIAL  STEEL  PORTRAIT 
of 

Hon.  William  M.  Seward, 

Secretary  of  State. 


PRICE  $2.00. 

The  above  elegant  Steel  Engraving  is  prononneed  by  all 
the  friends  of  the  eminent  Secretary,  as  the  most  perfect  suc¬ 
cess.  Sold  only  by  subscription.  Agents  Wanted  in  every 
township.  Also  lor 

TIio  Life  of  ANDREW  JOHNSON, 

ITtA  President  of  the  United  States, 

Including  his  Speeches,  Addresses,  and  other  STATE 
PAPERS.  One  elegant  Crown  Octavo  Volume,  witli  an  ac¬ 
curate  Steel  Portrait,  and  otlier  illustrations.  Price  $3.00. 

For  further  particulars,  Address  , 

DERBY  &  MILLER,  5  Spruce-st.,  New-York.  I 


GROVER  Sl  BAKER’S 


HIGHEST  EKEMHJM 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  LOCK  STITCH 


SEWING  MACHINES, 

495  BROADWAY,  NEW  YORK. 


The  first-named  pamphlet  is  filled  with  such  matter  as  in¬ 
quirers  on  the  subject  wish  to  find  at  the  beginning,  with 
full  tables  of  the  contents  of  the  others. 

Besides  these,  and  of  much  importance,  is  the  proposition 
for  the  formation  of  Clubs.  Tliis  shows  tlie  best  and  cheap¬ 
est  metliod  of  obtaining  Vines,  and  is  that  by  which  my  im- 
mvrfse  stocks  have  been  chiefly  sold  the  past  two  years,  with 
general  high  satisfaction.  These  propositions  are  worthy  cf 
the  attention  of  dealers  and  ail  others.  Clergymen, Edi¬ 
tors,  and  Postmasters  are  favorably  situated  for  making 
these  advantages  available. 

The  premiums  for  the  formation  of  Clubs  are  not  only  very 
liberal,  but  enable  persons,  without  cost  of  money,  to  obtain 
Vines  of  special  quality  that  cannot  be  procured  in  any 
other  way.  Address, 

C.  W.  GRANT,  Iona, 

(near  Poekskill,)  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y. 

P.  S.~ My  stoclc  of  transplanted  Vines  two  years  old  Is 
worthy  of  special  and  early  attention,  as  is  also  my  stock  of 
Allen’s  Hybrid,  of  whlcli  tlie  plants  are  very  large  and  chiefly 
in  open  ground.  This  is  gaining  rapidly  in  estimation,  from 
its  surpassing  quality  and  extreme  earllness,  and  abundant 
produce.  C.  W.  G. 


Adirondac  Grape  Vines. 


1  Year,  No.  1,  Very  strong. 


‘2,  Strong, 

1,  Very  strong, 

2,  Strong, 

1.  Pruned  for  fruiting, 

2,  do  do 


Also,  Iona,  Israella,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Concord,  Hartford  Pro¬ 
lific,  Creveling,  Cuyahoga,  Delaware,  Diana,  Maxatawney, 
Miles,  Rebecca,  Rogers’ N os.  1,  3,  4, 15, 19,  33,  Sherman,  Tele¬ 
graph,  Union  Village,  Yeddo. 

Superior  Vines  at  the  lowest  prices.  Sent  securely  packed 
by  Mail  or  Express,  as  desired.  Send  for  Trade  (Circular 
and  Descriptive  Catalogue.  Address 

JOHN  W.  BAILEY,  Plattsburgh,  Clinton  Co.,  N.  Y. 

® T B> Alt PEAltS,  2  to  4  years,  very 

k-^atrong  and  fine.  Good  assortment  of  7)arieties. 

Dwauf  Pears,  2  to  3  years.  Fei-y  stock//  and  slrona. 

Apples— Standaki)  and  Dwarf,  tlirifty. 

Cherries,  1  and  2  years.  Plums,  2  and  3  years. 

Peaches,  1  year. 

SMALL  FRUITS.— Agriculturist,  and  other  Strawber¬ 
ries.  Evergreens,  Ornamental  Trees,  Sururs,  Roses,  &o. 
„We  have  paid  special  attention  to  tlio  cultivation  of  the 
New  Hardy  Crapes,  and  oiler  strong,  well-grown  plants 
pt  IONA,  Adip.ondac,  and  Israella,  by  tlie  100  or  lOOO  at 
low  rates.  Also,  Delaware,  Concord,  Diana,  Rebecca, 
Allen  s  Hybrid,  Hartford  Prolific,  Rogers’  Hyrrids, 
Creveling.  and  nearly  all  tlie  valuable  kinds.  Also  a 
splendid  lot  01  Delaware  and  Diana  Layers,  many  of 
them  with  G  feet  iiearing  wood. 

Address  witli  stamp,  for  Price  List. 

BRONSON,  GIl.-lVES  &  SELOVER, 
Washington-st,  Nursery,  GENEVA,  N.  Y, 


1®©  Union  Generals  for  50  cent 

Address  S.  H,  SAYEK,  Otisvllle,  Orange  Co.,  N. 


®:.  N.  KaSSEI.1., 

SBOREBAM,  YT., 

BREEDER  OF 

{Sj>a.aa.i®lla.3VIIori3aLo  JSSa.©©-^ 

Yoekshibe,  Bekkship.e  and  Chester  Co. 
WHITE  HOGS, 

Scotch  Shepherd  Dogs,  Fancy  Poultry  and  Pigeons. 
Send  for  a  Circular. 


Help  Ibr  M©th©a*s, 

Dr.  Brown’s  BABY  TENDER  relieves  the  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  child.  Is  giving  universal  sails' 
faction.  See  full  description  and  Mr.  Judd’s  endorse¬ 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dec.  No.,  1364.  Send  for  Circular 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS,  939  Broadwmy,  New  York  City. 


For  sale. — Three  pure  bred  Ayrshire  Bulls. 

One  two  years  old.  Two  five  months  old.  All  choice 
animals.  Address  W.  STANLEY,  Great  Barrington,  Mass., 
or  No.  16  Wall-street,  New-York  City. 

For  Sale,  one  imported  Cotswold  Buck,  also  Buck 
and  Ewe  Lambs.  An  Essex  Boar.  Black  Spanish  Fowls, 
and  Aylesbury  Ducks.  E.  C.  ARMSTRONG,  Florida,  N.  Y. 


PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
Sent  by  Express  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Prices,  Address  N.  P.  B()YER  &  CO., 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


The  Model  Chester  White  Pig  of  America. — 
Weight  when  9  weeks,  just  100  lbs.  Photograplis  from  life 
sent  posbpaid  for  25  cents.  L.  B.  SILVER,  Salem,  Oliio. 


PURE  BRAHMA  FOWLS  FOR  SALE,  Trios  of 
early  liatched.  two  pullets  and  one  cock,  from  5 
to  10  dollars.  Trios  of  yearlings,  two  hens  and  one  cock, 
from  8  to  15  dollars.  Selected,  boxed  and  forwarded  by  ex¬ 
press  to  any  address  on  receipt  of  price. 

 B.  F.  HOLBROOK,  Natick,  Mass. 


JJOieSE  POWERS,  THRESHERS 
anJ  Cleaners,  Hay  Cutters,  Stalk  Cuttcrsi 
Coru  Sliellers,  Cider  Mills,  Fan  Mills,  etc. 
Manufactured  and  sold  by 

GRIFFING  BROTHER  &  CO., 

60  Courtland-st.,  New-York. 


WOTtflflfC  SeilSiH 

THE 


Covered  with  Beautiful  White  Duck,  the  Best, 
the  cheapest,  and  most  durable,  Cork  Rolls,  Cog  Wheels, 
Galvanized  Iron  Frame.  Depot  of  the  Company,  494  Broad¬ 
way,  New  York.  Price  $8.00.  Agents  and  Shippers  liberally 
dealt  with.  Send  for  Circular. 


Eiag-IIsIi  Elastic  Black. 

A  pure,  elastic,  fire-proof  varnish.  Ready  for  use  in 
10  gallon  kegs,  and  40  gallon  bbls.  "Warranted  tlie  most 
durable  and  economical  paint  for  all  kinds  of  Roofs,  Iron 
fences,  boilers,  castings,  smoke  pipes  and  all  otlier  exposed 
tin  and  iron  work.  Special  Terms  to  Agents: 

Also  “Likssed  Oil  Substitute  ” — tlie  best  and  cheapest. 

F.  A.  WHITING  &  CO., 

Victoria  White  Lead  Works, 

104  "Water-st.,  New  York.'  | 


mmm 


The  Great  American  Pump. 

Eight  years’  success  in  all  parts  of  the  world.  As  a  Force 
Pump,  it  has  no  rival.  Prices  reduced.  Full  Drawings  and 
Prices  sent  free.  JAMES  M.  EDNEY,  474K  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

AMAETTICAE  CHEMIST. 

FERDINAIND  E.  MAYER, 

North-west  corner  Frankford  and  William  Sts.,  Second 
Floor,  New-York. 


The  national  park  bank  of  new- 

YORK. 

CAPITAL . .S3,000,000.  SURPLUS. . .  .Sl,200,000. 

Ibis  Bank  will  issue  Certificates  of  Deposit  iiearing  inter¬ 
est  on  favorable  terms.  J.  L.  WORTH,  Cashier. 

New-York,  Aug.  21  1SG5. 


Cured  by  Bates'  Patent  Appliances.  For  descriptive  pam¬ 
phlet,  etc.,  Address  II.  C.  L.  MEAIiS,  271  "West  23d-st.,  N.  Y. 


nanMiiis 


Bloomington  TVxxrsery, 

BELEINOIS. 

Two  Hundred  and  forty  (240)  acres.  Splendid  stock.  Stand¬ 
ard  and  Dwarf.  Fifty  tliousand  (50,000)  Peacli,  including 
Hale’s  early;  Apricots,  Grapes,  Roses,  Osage  Orange,  Hardy 
Bulbs,  Tulips,  Hyacinths,  Crocus,  all  at  wlioleaale  and  retail. 

F.  K.  PHOENIX,  Bloomington,  Illinois. 


STRAWBERRY  PLANTS  OF  THE  BEST  VARI- 
I^ETIES  for  sale.  5)4  Acres  yielded  me  tliia  year  over  lOOO 
busliels  of  fruit.  Price  List  sent  free  to  all  applicants. 

THOS  C.  ANDREWS,  lloorestown, 

Burlington  County,  N.  J. 


FOR  SALE 

3000  BAIiHELS  GROUND  BONES  clolivcrod  at  the  factory 
of  the  Company,  riaLbueh,  Long  Island,  at  Star  Landing, 
Staten  lelaud,  near  Railway,  New  Jersey,  or  to  order  on  any 
Dock  111  Brooklyn, 

For  particulars  and  samples  inquire  at  the  places  men¬ 
tioned,  and  at  tlie  office  of  the  Long  Island  Bono  Laboratory, 
199  water,  corner  Fulton  Street, 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AC-RICULTURIST. 


SQ3 


S 


UPERIOR 

EDTJCATIONAL  ADVANTAGES 


!m.  the  beautiful  “Conuecticut  Kiver  Valley." 


BURNHAM’S 

American  Husiness  College, 

SPRINGFIELD,  MASS. 


Bvfar  the  largest,  most  complete  and  thorough  Institution 
of  the  kind  In  New  England,  where  Young  Men  are  thor- 
ougiily  trained  and  properly  fitted  for  all  Business  Pursuits. 
GliEAT  IMPROVEMENT  in  the  Method  of  Instruction, 
uniting  School  Boom  and  Counting  Room  upon  a  plan  that 
secures  all  the  practical  advantages  of  each. 


Banking  Honses,  Merchants’  Emporium,  and  twenty 
distinct  business  oilices  in  practical  operation.  The  Student 
Buys.  Sells,  Barters,  Ships,  Consigns,  Discounts,  Insures  and 
keeps  his  accounts,  as  in  Actual  Business. 

Prof.  .Tohn  W.  Fowler,  D.,,for  eighteen 

years  President  of  tlie  “New  York  State  and  National  Law 
Bcliool,"  Poughkeepsie,  has  charge  of  the  Law  and  Lecture 
Departments. 

Normal  Writing  Department— In  charge  of  the 
best  business  and  Orna'mentiil  Penman  and  Teacher  on  the 
Continent.  Superior  facilities  for  acq^uiring  a  thorough 
knowledge  of  the  Science  and  Practice  of  Telegraphy. 
LIBERAL  DEDUCTIONS  made  to  Soldiers  who  have  re¬ 
ceived  disabling  and  honorable  wounds  while  in  their  coun¬ 
try's  service. 

Ncce.ssary  Q,nalifications. — No  particular  degree 
of  advancement  is  required.  Students  can  enter  now  or  at 
any  time,  with  an  absolute  certainty  of  success. 

Editoria-l  Opinions. — “The  success  of  this  Cpllegels 
BO  great  as  to  warrant  the  hclief  tliat  it  will  eventually  be¬ 
come  the  LARGEST  as  it  already  is  the  best  institution  of 
the  kind  iiitlie  coaiitry."—Sp'iifielilIlepublican,  June 21, 1865. 

Send  ns  Names.— To  persons  who  will  send  ns.  plainly 
written,  tlie  P.  0.  address  of  forty  young  men  likely  to  be 
Interested  In  obtaining  a  businesseducation,  we  will  forward 
our  COLLEGE  REVIEW  and  “How  to  Do  Business,”  a 
manual  ot  practical  ail’airs  and  guide  to  success  in  life.  Bend 
only  one  name  from  a  family,  and  not  over  a  dozen  fromoue 
village  or  small  town. 


Write  for  Particnlars.— Circulars,  Papers,  &c.,  giv¬ 
ing  full  particulars  relating  to  the  course  of  study,  expense 
of  Board  and  Tuition,  may  be  had  gratis. 

For  specimens  of  Penmanship,  Bank  Bills,  Notes,  Drafts, 
Checks,  &c.,  send  25  cents.  Address 

LOUIS  W.  BURNHAM,  President, 

Springfield,  Mass.  ” 


IStiral  iSeminary. 

Farmers  wishing  to  secure  a  practical  and  thorough  edu¬ 
cation  for  their  sons  and  daugluers,  in  a  liealthful  and  beau¬ 
tiful  rural  locality,  free  from  intemperance,  profanity,  and 
other  demoralizing  influences,  will  send  for  a  Catalogue  of 
the  RURAL  SE.MINAKY.  Expenses,  including  boarding, 
furnlslied  rooms,  light,  fuel,  wasliing,  and  tuition,  $50  per 
term  of  tliree  months.  Address  A.  D.  LEE,  A.  M.,  Principal, 
Harlem  Springs,  Carroll  Co.,  Ohio. 


WHAT  MATCHLESS  BEAUTY, 


Ungers  on  every  glossy  wave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

IVIINS’ 


PATENT 

jffA  I R 

CRIMPERS 


j 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies’  liair.  No  heat  used,  and 
no  injury  to  the  hair. 

They  are  put  up  in  beauti¬ 
fully  lithographed,  boxes  con¬ 
taining  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengtlis,  witli  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  tolletto  is  complete  without  them.  For  sale 
throughout  the  country.  Retailers  will  be  supplied  by  any 
firsbclass  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  York,  Philadelphia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 

E.  rVINS,  Sixtk-st.  ancl  Columbia  Avc., 
Plilladelpliia,  Pa. 


PORTABLE 

PRINTING  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants,  Druggists.  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers, 
&c.  Address  ADAMS  PRESS  CO.,  26  Ann-st.,  New  York. 
Specimen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &c..  Six  cents. 


India  Mnl>bei*  Iwl©ves 


are  an  invaluable  protection  for  the  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Salt  Rheum,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYEAR  S  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 


liock  Stitch  Sewing  Machine, 


For  Familios  and  Manufacturers. 


THE  HOWE  MACHINE  CO., 
No.  629  Broadway,  New-York. 


Doty’s  Clothes  Washer. 


PRICES  MEBIJCEB  I 

The  Universal  Clothes  Wringer, 

WITIS  WHEELS. 

Prices— No.  IK,  $10 ;  No.  2,  $8  50. 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST- 


TlfEW  ARIEAMCJEMENT. 


IMPORTANT  IMPROVEMENT. 


The  Metropolitan  Washing  Machine  Co.,  Proprietors  of 
the  Universal  Clothes  Wrinjger,  have  arranged  for  the  ex¬ 
clusive  Tnauufacture  and  sale  of  Doty’s  Washing  Macliine, 
in  all  Territoiy  East  and  South  of  Illinois,  and  west  of  Kocky 
Mountains. 

Knowing  this  to  be 

FAK  ISFSF  WA^lIEK 

ever  invented,  and  that  those  who  purchase  or  take  It  on 
trial  are  sure  to  like  it,  and  will  find  it  not  only  a  great 
saver  of  time  and  strength,  but  also, 

A  GREAT  SAVER  OP  CLOTHES, 

We  place  it  in  the  hands  ol  Salesmen,  and  ofl'er  it  to  the 
Pulillc,  in  full  confidence  that  the  sale  will  be  large  at  first, 
and  will  Increase  rapidly  as  the  Machines  are  introduced  and 
their  merits  become  known.  It  lias  recently  been  greatly 
improved,  and  can  be  attached  to  the  old-fashioned  Dasher- 
Churn,  and  make  clini-ning  fonr  times  easier. 

Bee  testimony  of  Orange  Judd,  Editor  American  Agrl- 
cnlturlst. 

Dott’s  Washing  Machine  we  have  tried  thoroughly  for 
nearly  a  year  past,  in  competition  with  many  others  sent  to 
us,  and  for  actual  service  this  seems  to  he  an  improvement 
upon  every  previous  machine  we  have  tested.  It  is  com¬ 
pact,  and  easily,  and  naturally  worked.  Our  “better  half, 
who  has  been  complimented  with  the  gift  of  a  score  or  more 
of  different  machines  for  trial,  says  this  is  taken  to  most 
kindly  by  the  “help,"  and  that  she  can  not  persuade  them 
to  use  any  other  while  this  is  at  hand. 

PRICES.— Family  Size.  $12.00. 

Hotel  “  $15.00. 

On  receipt  of  the  price  from  places  where  no  one  is  sel¬ 
ling,  we  will  send  the  Washer  in  States  East  of  Illinois,  free 
of  K.  K.  freight  charges,  and  so  sure  are  we  of  its  merits 
that  we  promise  to  Refund  the  Money,  if,  on  one 
month’s  trial  according  to  directions,  tlie  purchaser  choosoo 
to  return  the  Washer  to  us,  free  of  expense. 

A  good  Universal  Wringer  with  cogs,  should  go  with 
each  Washer.  Price  of  Washer  and  Wringer  combined,  $20. 

Good  Salesmen  can  make  money  everywhere  selling  this 
Machine.  Exclusive  right  of  Sale  given  to  responsible  par¬ 
ties  who  first  apply. 

Send  for  Illustrated  Terms  Circular. 

B.  C.  BROWNING,  General  Agent, 

847  Broadway,  New-York. 

$20.  G.  &  S.  CRYSTAL  D.  P.  $20. 

A  year  can  be  realized  glldins:  and  putting  np 
theCrystal  Door  Plate.  Agents  wanted.  Stock, 
Tools,  and  Instructions  cost  $^0^^  L.  L.  TODD 
&  CO.,  39  Nassau-street,  New-York. 

SEND  FOR  A  CIRCULAR. 


$1000 


“This  is  the  first  Wringer  I  have  found  tliat  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.” — J.  P.  Huggins,  Lovejoy’s  Hotel. 

“In  the  laundry  of  my  honso  there  is  a  iierpetual  thanks¬ 
giving  on  Mondays  for  the  invention  of  your  excellent 
Wringer.”— Rev.  Tuso.  L.  Cuylkh. 

“  We  think  tlie  Machine  much  more  than  pavs  for  itself 
every  year  in  the  saving  of  garments.”  “We  think  it  im¬ 
portant  that  a  Wringer  should  be  fitted  witli  UOGS.” 

Okangk  Judd,  American  Agriciilturtst. 

“The  inventor  of  this  Machine  may  have  the  satistaction 
of  knowing  that  he  has  changed  one  of  the  most  toilsome 

Sarts  of  woman’s  work  into  a  most  attractive  auiusemeiit.”— 
[rs.  Henry  Ward  Beecher. 

“  I  heartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment.”— Rev  Dr.  Bellows. 

5^”  On  receipt  of  price  from  any  part  of  the  country 
where  we  have  no  canvassers,  we  send  tlie  Wringer  free  of 
freight  charges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  township. 

R.  C.  BROWSriNG,  347  Broadway,  IV.  Y*. 


FrvB  tears’  experience  proves  the 


Nonpareil  Wasliing  MacMn© 

to  be  the  only  permanently  serviceable  Machine  in  use.  It 
is  noted  for  strength  of  construction,  simplicity,  and  ease  of 
operation;  and,  being  geared  to  give  six  strokes  of  the 
plungers  to  one  turn  o^f  the  hand.  Is  unapproachable  for 
speed  and  power.  It  is'in  no  respect  a  toy  Machine. 
REDUCED  PKICES-No.  1,  $13.50 ;  No.  2,  $22,50  ;  No.  S,  $27. 
Dealers  supplied.  Send  for  free  Circular  to 

OAKLET  &  KEATING,  184  Water-st.,  New  York. 


raiOIV  WASHING  MACHINE  AXD  WRIXGEK. 


The  Best  in  the  world— prize  Medals  awarded  in  Europe 
and  America.  No  soaking,  ruhhing,  or  boiling  required. 
The  Wringer  has  Cog-Wheels,  and  solid  White  Rubber  rolls. 


Agents  Wanted. 


J.  WARD  &  CO,. 

457  Broadway,  New-York, 


VAN  NAME  &  CO.,  Cincinnati,  St.  Louis,  and  Chicago. 


Notice  to  churches  and  schools.— 

BELLS  within  the  reach  of  all.  The  AMALGAM  BELL, 
known  througliout  the  United  States  and  Canadas  as  the 
cheapest  and  best.  Price  reduced  to  20  cents  per  pound,  ana 
warranted.  Send  for  descriptive  circular  to  the  manuiactur- 
er,  JOHN  B.  KOBINSUN,  No.  36  Dey-st.,  New  York. 


HOW  TO  PLAY  CROQUET. 

A  New  Pocket  Manual  op  Instructions  for  tliis  Popu- 
iB  OuT-Dooii  Sport  for  Ladies  and  Gentlemen,  Lads 
id  ^lissES,  containing  Enguavings  and  Diagrams,  ehow- 
g  the  manner  of  Laying  out  tub  Ground,  Placing  tub 
RCHES  AND  STAKES,  tllC  PROPER  POSITIONS  IN  PLAYING, 
ODE  OF  Striking  the  Balls,  &c.,  with  an  Accurate  De- 
iiiiPTiON  OF  THE  Imple.ments,  and  Directions  for  Mak- 
fO  Them  :  Also,  tlie  I!ules  and  Reoitlations  of  the 
AMK,  and  a  Glossary  OF  Technical  Terms.  Also,  Hints 
x  Parlof.  Croquet<  an  in-door  game  for  V  inter  Lven- 
{GS.  Neatly  hound  in  cloth.  Price  30  Cents.  On 
icelpt  of  which  copies  will  he  sent,  post-paid. 

Address  A3ISDEN  &  CO.,  Puhlisuers,  Boston. 


334 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[OCTOBEK, 


THE 

GUTTA  PERCHA  CEMENT  PAINT, 

rOK  PAINTING  ALL 

WOOL  ANL  METALS 

£xpoiied  to  tUe  Weather. 

It  lias  been  used  for  general  purposes  in  place  of  the  best 
Oil  tnixed  paints,  for  eiuht  years.  It  costs  but  half  as  much, 
and  we  guarantee  it  to  be  tlio  best  Preservative  Paint  in  the 
world. 

It  is  particularly  adapted  for  coating  Iron  llailines.  Agri¬ 
cultural  Tools,  Outhouses,  Fences,  Metal  Koofs,  and  Brick 
IValls,  e.yposed  to  the  North-east  storms. 

Every  Farmer  who  has  Wagons,  Plows,  Reapers,  Kettles, 
or  any  farm  utensils  worth  preserving,  can  add  tlfty  per  cent, 
to  their  wear  bv  keeping  them  protected  with  a  coating  of 
this  paint.  IT  IS  ALWAYS  READY  FOR  USI'I 

TIae  lllsack  Vaa'BaasEa. 

For  manufacturers  of  Ornamental  Iron  AYork,  Machinery, 
Agricultural  Implements,  AVagons,  Furnaces,  Tools,  Steam 
Pipes  and  Boilers,  and  for  all  p'urposes  where,  a  quick  drying 
lustrous  Ahirnish  is  required ;  this  is  equal  to  the  best— and 
costs  less  than  one  quarter  as  much. 

TUE  JOHNS  &  CKOSLEY'  MANUFACTURING  CO., 
Sole  Manufacturers, 

No.  18  AVilliam-street,  New-York. 

Also  manufacturers  of  the  GUTTA  PERCHA  CEMENT 
ROOFING,  applicable  to  all  kinds  of  Roofs,  costs  less  than 
half  as  much  as  Tin,  and  can  be  easily  applied  by  any  one. 


ll,ca«taBag  Mairsery. 

We  offer  for  sale  50  varieties  of  Grape  Vines,  new  varieties 
of  mediinn  size.  The  older  kinds,  Concord,  Diana,  Hartford 
Prolillc,  Crevcliag;,  Dracut  Amber,  Kogers’  Hybrids,  Nos.  1, 
4,  9, 15.  19,  are  extra  strong  layers,  and  one,  and  two  years 
tz’ansplantecl  from  layers  for  fruiting  at  once. 

Purchasers  will  express  satisfaction  at  the  superior  quality 
of  these  vines,  grown  entirely  in  open  air  (as  we  have  no 
glass). 

Budded  Apple  Trees.  Pear  Trees,  Rock  Maple,  Eyei'green 
Trees,  Shrubs,  &c. 

Send  for  Illustrated  Priced  Catalogue. 

J.  W.  MANNING,  Reading,  Mass. 


T8ae  Mew  StrawlBerries. 

Tlie  Grent  Agricultui'ist  and  Great  Wisconsin,  $1  per  doz, ; 
the  Great  Bnfl'alo,  French’s  Seedling,  Russell,  Kogers  Eliza, 
Marguerite,  La  Coustaute,  Jucuiida,  ami  otliers,  50  cts.  per 
dozen.  Many  line  sorts  25  cts.  per  dozen.  Carefully  packed 
iu  gutta  perc'ha  silk,  and  forwarded  hy  mail  to  any  address. 
By  the  100  or  1000  very  low.  Priced  Descriptive  Catalogues 
now  ready  of  the  best  collections  in  tlie  country.  Agents 
wanted.  B.  JI.  AVATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymoutii,  Mass. 


STRAWBERRIES. 

I  liavo  for  saic  si.v  acres  of  Russell’s  Prolific  and  Froncli’s 
Seedling  Strawberry  Plants,  and  Two  Acres  of  other  clioice 
varietie.s,  for  spring  planting,  all  large  and  well  grown. 
Russell’.s  at  $1.00  per  bundred ;  French’s,  Cutter’s,  Hovey’s, 
and  1'  illmorc-,  at  70  cents  per  luiiulred.  10  per  cent,  discount 
on  1000  plants.  30  per  cent,  discount  on  4000  plants.  Deliv¬ 
ered  iu  New-York  free  of  expense.  Sent  l>y  mail  at  50  cents 
per  liundred  extra.'  Address  SAMUEL  HICKS,  North 
Hempstead,  Long  Island,  N.  Y. 


Hew  Canaan  Hurseries. 

Tlie  Subscribers  have  their  usual  Nursery  Stock  for  Sale, 
including  a  large  and  superior  stock  of  Apple  Trees.  Also, 
Hartford  Prolihe,  and  Concord  Grape  Vines.  Address 

STEPHEN  HOYT  &  SONS,  New  Canaan,  Conn. 


CiiaTasats  aaad  Hasplaera’les. 

A  few  tliousand  lied  Dutch  Currant.s,  2  and  3  years  old, 
pruned  to  a  single  stem,  $6  per  100,  $50  per  1000. 
FRANCONIA  RASPBERRY,  $1  |)er  doz.,  $5  per  100. 
BRI-N'CKLE’S  OR.ANGE,  $1  per  doz.,  $5  per  100. 

Address  G.  E.  MEISSNER,  Riclimond,  S.  I.,  N.  Y. 


^TfeRNAMENTAL  SHRUBS  of  10  clififerent  kinds, 

per  100;  iu  iOO  different  kinds,  $25  per  100.  Herbace¬ 
ous  Perennials  in  50  diiferent  kinds,  $10  per  100;  iu  100  differ¬ 
ent  kinds,  $15  per  100.  Grape  Vines,  two  years.  Concord, 
Hartford  Prolilic,  Delaware,  Rebecca,  $20  per  100.  A  select 
collection  of  Green-House  Plants  at  low  prices. 

AV.  L.  FISCHER,  130tli-st.  and  8tli  Ave.,  New-A’ork. 


Fear  Trees. 

EDAVIN  ALLEN,  offers  a  large  stock.  Standards  and 
Dwarfs,  ofsuperior  quality  at  his  Nurseries,  NewBrunswick, 
New  Jersey. 


T«  AgCBafs  asid  fiSae  Trade. 

My  Autumn  Catalogue  Is  now  ready,  with  great  induce¬ 
ments  to  Agents.  B.  M.  AVATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymoutii,  Alass. 


'fcifftlfe  Ppleiidid  Pear  Seedlings,  1  year  old,  for 

•A  Side.  Send  for  Trade  Circular  (price  low 

for  tlie  quality).  Address  HAMMOND  &  NEAV  SDN, 

Geneva,  N.  Y. 

a®H’U4.4’B0  for  sale, 

qF  ^Fe'li'wP'aFof  which  30,000  are  Hale’s  Early,  a  va¬ 
riety  ripening  two  ■woolts  earlier  than  any  other.  Also 
APIM.ES,' CHERRIES,  PEARS,  ikt-.,  Stvnw- 
Dci-ries,  Hriipc  Viiie.s.  For  circular  apply  to 

ISAAC  PULLEN,  Ilightslowii,  N. . I. 


eETTIE  GRAPES,  larg’er  and  inoi’C  productive 
than  Concord,  strong  grower,  reinarkalily  free  froiii 
mil(h3'v,  bunuh  hirgc,  borrv  large  hlaok.  better  tliaii  Gonebrd 
or  iBe.bcIla,  ripens  August  to  SO.  Originated  here,  good 
niuiits  cacn,  $10  per  dozen,  mailed  free.  Circular  gratis. 

E.  Y.  TEAS,  Richmond,  IiuUaua. 

Concord  grape  vines.— 10,000  one  and  two 

year  old  vines  for  sale.  Also  other  yarletii;^?. 

Address  DE  1E\\  &  SON,  Nyack. 

Rockland  Co.,  N.  T, 


Dutch  Flower  Moots, 


Dutch  Bulbous  Roots. 


Sent  by  Mail  Post-paid,  at  Catalogue  Prices, 

BLISS, 

&  FLORliT, 

SPRINGFIELD,  MASS.  , 

Just  received  Aom  Holland,  a  large  and  well  selected  as¬ 
sortment  of  the  above,  from  the  same  source  as  those  here¬ 
tofore  sold  by  him,  and  giving  such  perfect  satisfaction.  He 
is  happy  to  state  that  in  consequence  of  the  decline  in  gold 
he  is  able  to  offer  them  at  prices  considerably  reduced  from 
those  of  last  year. 

The  assortment  embraces  the  finest  varieties  of  Double 
AKD  Single  Hyacinths;  Polyanthus  Narcissus; 
Double. AND  Single  Eakly  and  Late  Tulips;  Double 
AND  Single  Narcissus;  Jonquils;  Crocus;  Crown 
Imperials;  Iris;  Snoiv-Drops;  Scillae;  Haecy  Glad¬ 
iolus;  Ranunculus;  Anemones;  Japan  and  many 
other  Lilies.  Also  a  fine  assortment  of  GREEN-HOUSE 
BULBS,  comprising  Cyclamens,  Ixias,  Oxalis,  Spar- 
axis,  Tritomas,  Achimenes,  Gloxinias,  &c.,  &o. 

His  new  IHustratcd  Autwinii  Catalogue,  con¬ 
taining  fine  engravings  of  the  celebrated  Bilium  Aura- 
tuin.  Hyacinth,  Ranunculus,  Anemone,  Tulip,  Crocus, 
Cyclamen,  Japan  Lily,  etc.,  with  accurate  descriptions,  and 
explicit  directions  for  the  culture  of  each  variety,  will  he 
mailed  to  all  applicants  enclosing  2'en  Cents. 

Collections  containing  a  fine  assortment  of  all  the  leading 
varieties  of  the  above  will  be  mailed  post-paid,  as  follows : 
Collection  No.  1,  $20.00;  No.  2,  $10.00;  No.  3,  $5.00;  No.  4, 
$3.00.  For  the  contents  of  eacli  collection  and  further 
particulars,  see  Catalogue. 

For  a  more  extended  list  of  his  collection,  see  his  adver¬ 
tisement  in  the  September  No.  of  the  Agriculturist. 

Fresli  Seed,  &)C.,  &c. 

Those  who  have  read  my  treatise  on  Onion  raising,  page 
20  know  how  I  raise  my  Onion  seed;  from  the  liandsomest 
ea'rly  onions,  that  are  liard  and  compact,  with  a  close,  thin, 
fine  skin,  and  a  very  small  neck.  I  have  grown  tins  season  a 
fine  lotof  Early  Round  Yellow  Danvers  onion  seed,  winch 
I  will  send,  post-paid,  to  any  one,  on  receipt  of  $'l.i5  per  Ih., 
or  $2.1)2,  if  sent  by  Express.  Evern  seed  ts  of  this  season  s 
groictk,  and  warranted  to  he  .fresh  and  pure.  In  January, 

I  sliall  send  out  my  Annual  Catalogue,  whicli  -will  contain, 
among  otliers,  one  liundred  and  twenty-five  varieties  of  seed 
of  my  own  raising ;  this  I  would  like  to  send  gratis,  to  every 
farmer  and  gardener  in  the  land,  ivlio  wants  fresh  and  pure 
seed  ■  embracing  not  only  the  more  common  sorts,  hut  every 
rarity  and  novelty  iu  tlie  market.  My  customers  ol  last  year 
will  receive  it  without  writing  for  it. 

My  Treatise  on  Onion  Raising,  athorouglily  practical  work 
—telling,  among  other  things,  how  to  gather,  liow  to  store, 
keep  and  market  the  crop,  sent  to  any  aildress  for  oO  cents. 

*  JAMES  J.  H.  GREGORY,  Marblehead,  Muss. 


Hyacinths,  Ttslips,  i&c. 

J.  M.  THORBURN  &  CO., 
15  John-street,  New-York. 

Offer  the  followiug 

BEAUTIFUL  COLLECTIONS 

-OF- 

R©©TS. 

r«o.  1.— ASSORTMENTS  OF 


6  Fine  Named  Double  and  Single  Hyacintlis,  for 

pots,  glasses  or  open  border . 

1  Polyanthus  Narcissus . 

3  Early  Tulips . 

12  Fine  Mixed  Crocus . 

1  Bulhocodiuui  Vermim . 


$2.00 


K».  S.— ASSORTMENTS  OF 

9  Fine  Named  Double  and  Single  Hyacinths,  for 

pots,  glasses  or  open  border . 

6  Fine  Double  Tulips . 

15  Beautiful  Named  Early  Tulips . 

25  Fine  Mixed  Crocus .  I  *5  gn 

3  Polyanthus  Narcissus .  ' 

6  Double  Narcissus . 

0  Bulbocodium  Veriium . 

3  Persian  Iris . 

12  Double  Snowdrops . 

i^’o.  3.— ASSORTMENTS  OF 

18  Fine  Named  Double  and  Single  Hyacinths,  for 

pots,  glasses  or  open  border . 

50  Fine  Mixed  Crocus .  . 

‘24  Beautiful  Named  Favly  Tulips . . . 

12  Fine  Named  Double  Tulips . 

4  Polyantlius  Narcissus .  <•  $10  00 

12  Double  Narcissus .  ' 

3  Persian  Iris . . . 

3  Englisli  Iris . . . 

1  Crimson  Crown  Imperial . 

6  Bulbocodium  Vernum . 

25  Double  Snowdrops . 

Bv  mail,  16  cents  additional  for  No.  1  assortment. 

;;  ::  ::  I  :: 

Our  Annual  Bulb  Catalogiu;  with  directions  for  cultivation 
free  on  application. 

GraiJC  Yiiaes. 

I  do  not  pretend  to  have,  but  what  I  liave,  and  such  as  I 
have  I  offer  lor  sale  at  tlie  lowest  living  rates,  hy  the  single 
one  100,  or  1,000,  consisting  of  Adirondac,  Iona,  Israella, 
Allen’s  Hybrid,  Rogers’  Hybrids,  Creveling,  Clinton  imia- 
ware.  Concord,  (a  few  thousand  fine  layers.)  Hartlord  Pro¬ 
lific,  Norton’s 'Virginia,  and  many  others.  Price  list  sent  Iree 
on  application.  Vines  sent  by  mail  when  so  ordered,  post¬ 
age  paid.  Correspondence  solicited. 

Address  d-  YV.  CONE,  Vineland,  N.  J. 


Seedfs  I  Beltos  ! !  Plants  ! ! ! 

WILiIilAM  HAOKER. 

Office  258  South  Third  St. 

PH1I.,ADELPHIA,  PA. 

Wholesale  Dealer  in  Seeds,  and  Agent  for  the  best  English. 
French,  and  German  growers.  Hyacinths,  Tulips,  Crocus  and 
otlier  Bulbs  direct  from  the  Holland  growers.  Country  mer- 
cliants,  Dealers  and  Druggists  supplied  at  tlie  lowest  rates. 


75, Grape  Vlstes. 

An  unusually  fine  lot  for  sale  at  the  lowest  Tprices.  Over 
;0  different  varieties.  , 

CONCORD,  No.  1,  25  cts.  each,  $2  per  dozen,  $6  per  50, 
510  per  100,  $75  per  1000. 

DELA’WARE,  No.  1,  50  cts.  each,  $4  per  dozen,  $14  per 
lO,  $25  per  100,  $200  per  1000. 

Send  for  Price  List  and  sample  vines.  j  „ 


Ci'ossiweJl’s  Patapsco  J^ursery* 

Aimc  Ai’umlel  Co.,  Mil. 

FOR  SALE. 

l.Y.OOO  Stainlarcl  aiitl  D-ivarf  Pears. 

JiO.OOO  PeacH— choice  varieties. 

.5,000  Standard  Clierries— very  fine. 

}J0,000  Delaware  and  other  hardy  Grapes. 

Ornamental  and  SJiadc  Trees,  E'vcrgrcens, 
Elowering  Slirnlts  and  Roses,  together  witli  every 
thing  usually  to  he  found  in  a  tirst  class  Niirsei-y. 

Catalogues  and  other  information  furnished  hy  application 
to  RICH'D  CROMWELL,  40  &  48  Light-st.,  Baltimore.  Md. 


Of  all  tlte  lieadiug  and  Hardy  '^’'arieties. 

I  am  prepared  to  furnish  first  class  vines  for  Garden  and 
Vinevard  culture,  of  my  own  propagalioii.  Having  had  six 
years’  experience  iu  two  of  the  best  vine-growing  establish- 
meuts  in  the  country,  and  liaving  grown  only  a  limited  num- 
ber,  giving  my  whole  attention  to  them,  can  furnish  superior 
vines.  For  Price  List,  Acluress  ,  ,  -r  v-r  ti- 

CHARLES  H.  ZUNDELL,  Hempstead,  L.  I.,  N.  T. 


Vie  have  a  large  stock  of  plants  of  Hornet,  Pilate, 
Imperial,  Brincfcle’s  Orange,  Franconia, 
Improved  Blaclc  Cap,  Knevitt’s  O-innt,  and 
all  otlier  desirable  kinds.  Send  for  Descriptive  Priced  Cat¬ 
alogue  enclosing  10  cents. 

J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


Having  paid  special  attention  to  the  cultivation  of  tlie 
Currant,  ive  are  able  to  supply  in  any  quantity  tlie  following 
varieties.  'V'ersaillaise,  Cherry,  "Victoria,  Fer- 
tillc  €le  Angers,  Short  Buncli.  Red,  White 
Grape,  and  all  otlier  desirable  kinds. 

Send  10  cents  for  Descriptive  Priced  Catalogue. 

,1.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  I’a. 


Rocliellc,  Dorchester,  and  Newman’s  Tliorn- 

less.  The  above  are  the  only  kinds  j’ct  thorouglily  tested. 
Our  Descriptive  Priced  Catalogue  sent  to  all  apiilicaiits  en¬ 
closing  10  cents, 

.1.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


Our  supply  of  vines,  iucludiiig  all  the  old  and  new  varie¬ 
ties,  is  the  largest  and  best  tliis  season  we  have  ever  ofl'ered. 
A  Descriptive  Priced  Catalogue  will  he  sent  to  all  appli¬ 
cants  enclosing  10  cents. 

J.  KNOX, 

Box  155,  Pittsburgh,  Pa. 


IOO5OOO  G3-I^-A.3L=*ES5 

Including  all  tlie  best  sorts  for  Vineyards  or  private  lands, 
at  the  lowest  rates.  Sent  hy  Express,  or  prepaid  by  mail, 
carefully  packed.  Agents  wanted.  Catalogues  to  any  Ad- 
qress.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymouth,  Mass. 


loncoi'O,  Delaware,  Diana.  Hartford  Prolinc  ;  I/* 

ill  ground  from  layers,  and  long  evutmgs  " 

•  vines  Also  a  good  stock  ot  Adirondac,  Iona,  Isi.ulla, 
!en’s  llylirid,  Cnyalioga,  Rogers’  Hylinds,  Reliecca,  Union 
lage,  &c.,  &e.  Price  List  post-paid  to  all  applicants 
i.igo,  i/oAG  &  CO.,  Lock-port,  N.  V . 


FATIVE  GRAPE  VINES.— Such  as  the  A«li» 
•  roiidac,  loiia,  Isriiflla,  (‘lovcliag.  Allen’s 
yhrid,  Delawave,  &c.  Also  a  large  /'°"ection  ol 
■dv  Everiilooining  Roses,  on  tlieir  own  roots,  and  stand- 
1.  Also  a  large  lot  of  Dwarf  and  Standani  Pear  'Tiees,  tot 
e  reasonable  hy  G.  MARC,  Astoria.  L.I..N.  V  .  Puce  List 
it  free  on  application.  Samples  01  Vines  can  be  seen  at 
!  Agriculturist  Office.  , 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


DEIiAWAME 

AND 

IONA  VINES. 

Parsons  &  Co*, 

Oifer  for  the  Autumn  trade, 

I>ela'wax*e  C*-i:*ape  Vines, 

at  the  following  low  prices: 

No.  1,  extra  strong,  $30  per  100. — $250  per  1000. 
$2,000  per  10,000. 

No.  2,  fine  plants,  $20  per  100. — $160  per  1000. 
$1200  per  10,000. 

IONA,  ISKAEIiLA, 

and 

AI>IRONB>AC, 

No.  1,  $3.00  each  ;  $18.00  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  $1.50  each ;  $12.00  per  doz. ;  $80  per  100. 
IONA— No.  3,  $50  per  100. 

Our  No.  1  Iona,  are  very  strong,  extra  plants. 

CONCOMII  VINES, 

$12  00  per  100  ;  $80  00  per  1000  ; 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of  all  the  sorts  of  vines  usually 
grown. 

The  great  superiority  which  the  growth  of  the  last  two 
seasons,  in  vai'ious  sections  of  the  country,  shows  our  Vines 
to  possess,  is  owing  to  the  fact  that  they  are  grown  in  broad 
deep  borders.  The  roots  having  thus  abundance  of  room, 
become  heavy,  woody  and  substantial,  with  abundance  of 
fibre  eyes. — Botli  roots  and  tops  become  thus  so  thoroughly 
ripened  that  on  being  planted  out  they  grow  with  great 
luxuriance. 

Having  for  many  years  and  with  large  cultivation,  thor¬ 
oughly  tested  the  pot  culture,  giving  a  pot  to  each  Vine,  we 
at  length  discarded  it  several  years  since. 

It  has,  in  our  opinion,  been  the  main  cause  of  tlie  weak 
growth  of  a  large  part  of  the  Delaware  Vines,  which  have 
been  sent  oat  in  years  past. 

The  curled,  twisted  and  matted  mass,  which  the  cramping 
of  the  pot  causes,  cannot  possibly  produce  a  growth  to  com¬ 
pare  with  that  of  the  Vine  which  has  luxuriated  a  year  in  a 
broad  deep  border. 

We  consider  small  vines  of  our  culture  of  the  last  three 
years,  more  valuable  than  the  No.  1  Vines  of  pot  culture,  and 
we  desire  that  those  interested  should  by  comparison,  satisfy 
themselves  that  this  is  true. 

The  DELAWARE  VINE  has  an  establislied  reputation, 
and  needs  few  words  to  commend  it.  Those  wlio  plant  it 
are  certain  of  a  good  variety  both  for  the  table  and  for  wine. 

Its  liard  and  iron-like  wood  lias  endured  winters  in  Iowa 
and  Wisconsin,  so  severe  that  Catawba  and  Isabella  were  en¬ 
tirely  killed.  It  is  pre-eminently  the  grape  for  Canada,  and 
Northern  New  England,  and  does  equally  well  on  the  liill- 
sides  of  the  South.  . 

The  general  failure  by  rot  of  Catawba,  and  other  varieties 
the  present  year,  proves  incontestibly  the  great  value  of  tlie 
Delaware.  It  has  not  only  escaped  tlie  rot,  but  where  it  lias 
been  affected  by  the  mildew,  which  has  tins  year  attacked 
nearly  all  varieties,  the  wood  and  fruit  have  not  been  mate¬ 
rially  injured. 

The  IONA  is  less  valuable  than  the  Delaware,  only  because 
it  has  been  less  universally  tested.  It  is  equal  to  the  Chasse- 
las  in  size  and  flavor,  grows  more  rapidly  than  the  Dela¬ 
ware,  and  is  no  more  liable  to  mildew.  As  a  table  grape  we 
have  a  very  high  opinion  of  its  excellence,  and  are  preparing 
to  plant  it  very  largely  in  our  own  vineyards.  Its  wine  qual¬ 
ities  are  yet  to  be  tested.  As  a  table  grape  it  ranks  with  the 
Delaware. 

Regarding  the  size  of  tlie  respective  classes  of  vines,  tve 
make  no  “eaitra-s.” 

In  assorting  our  vines  of  one  year’s  growth,  we  make 
three  classes. 

No.  1,  are  the  finest  and  largest,  and  are  really  extra.  No. 
2,  are  the  next  size,  of  which  large  quantities  are  used  for 
vines  and  planting.  No.  3,  are  valuable  for  nurserymen  to 
plant  out. 

When  the  expense  of  preparing  land  for  Vineyard  is  con¬ 
sidered,  it  is  economy  to  use  No.  1  plants.  There  will  be  a 
year’s  difference  in  fruiting  Delaware,  between  Nos.  1  and  3. 

The  prices  of  some  thirty  other  varieties  will  be  found  in 
the  General  Catalogue. 

ROSES, 

Hybrid  Perpetuals,  at  $20  per  100;  $175  per  lOOO. 

These  are  all  Remontants,  of  the  best  varieties,  upon 
their  own  roots,  not  budded  or  grafted. 

Addre&s  PARSONS  &  CO., 

F!u§liing',  N.  Y, 


325 


WM.  PERRY  &  SON, 

BRIDGEPORT,  CONN. 


GRAPE  VINES 

INIail- 


OFFER  A  LARGE  STOCK  OF  SUPERIOR  VINES  at 

TERY  liOW  KATES. 

Varieties  are  Concord,  Delaware,  Iona,  Israella,  Adirondac, 
Rogers*  Hybrid’s,  Allen’s  Hybrid,  Lydia,  Ives’  Seedlinjr,  Mot¬ 
tled  and  numerous  other  valuable  varieties.  Our  vines  are 
grown  in  wide  Borders,  with  plenty  of  room  for  full  deyel- 
opement  of  roots  and  cane.  Vines  grown  by  this  method 
are  far  superior  to  pot  plants.  We  submit  a  few  of  the  many 
flattering  letters  we  receive  regarding  our  vines. 

Iowa  City,  Iowa,  July  20, 1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  &  Son,  Gents. 

Your  Price  List  for  the  fall  of  1865,  is  at  hand.  Those  vines 
you  sent  me  last  Spring  were  very  tine,  some  are  bearing 
this  summer.  I  want  this  fall,  50  Iona,  25  Israella,  and  25  Adi¬ 
rondac.  No.  1  Vines.  Yours  Truly,  L.  Kauffman. 

Galksburg,  Knox  Co.,  Ill.,  April  17,  1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  and  Sou,  Gentlemen. 

The  box  of  Vines  you  sent  me,  came  to  hand  on  the  IStli 
inst.  On  opening  ‘it  1  found  the  contents  in  flne  order. 
Damp  and  moist,  the  Concord  exceeded  my  most  sanguine 
expectation,  i  never  saw  so  many  and  such  long  roots  on 
yearling  Vines  before.  The  members  of  the  club  appeared 
to  be  pleased  with  their  Vines.  Yours  Truly,  S.  S.  White. 

Sherletsbtjrg,  Penn.,  March  31, 1865. 
Messrs.  Wm.  Perry  &  Son,  Gentlemen.  ,  ^ 

The  Vines  came  to  hand  all  safe,  and  without  a  doubt  they 
are  the  strongest  and  liealthiest  vines  ever  I  purchased,  and 
I  have  bouglitof  quite  a  number  of  Nurseries,  but  none  have 
compared  with  your  vines.  I  am  very  sorry  I  did  not  pur¬ 
chase  of  you  two  years  ago  this  spring.  _ 

Yours  Trul3%  Wm.  A.  Frakeb, 

We  would  state  that  Mr.  Fraker  bought  our  second  size 
vines.  Parties  purchasing  this  fall  will  get  our  vines  at  much 
lower  rates  than  if  they  wait  until  spring.  Catalogues  sent 
on  application.  Address  as  above. 


Tw®  Acres  Grape  Cuttings. 

Mostly  Goncord  and  Hartford  ProIiOc. 

I&elaware. 

One  year,  No.  1,  $2.5  per  100,  or  $200  per  1000. 

Two  “  “  $50  “  100.1 
Layers,  "  $30  “  100. 

Concord, 

One  year,  No.  1,  $10  per  100,  or  $90  per  1000. 

. .  2,  $8  “  100,  or  $70  per  lOOO. 

Two  and  Three  years,  $25  per  100. 

Hartford  Prolific. 

One  year,  No,  1,  $12  per  100. 

Rogers’  Hybrids. 

4,  15,  19,  etc. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $6  per  dozen,  or  $40  per  100. 

Hianas. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $4  per  dozen,  or  $20  per  100. 

Adirondac. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $15  per  dozen,  or  $100  per  100. 

Iona. 

One  year.  No.  1,  $15  per  dozen,  or  $100  per  100. 

Enioii  Tillage. 

One  year.  No.  1,  75  cents  each,  or  $6  per  dozen. 

GEO.  SEYMOUR  &  CO., 

South  Norwalk,  Conn. 


&  OO., 

Genesee  Valiey  Muesea-ies, 

RocUester,  Y.  Y. 

Off’er  an  immense  stock  of  well  grown  Standard  and 
IJwai-f  Fruit  Trees,  Small  Fruits,  Ornament¬ 
al  Trees,  Shrubs,  Plants,  &e.,  &c.,  for  the  Au¬ 
tumn  of  1865. 

Nearly  FOUR  HUNDRED  ACRES  are  occupied  in 
their  cultivation.  Tlie  Public  are  solicited  to  examine  the 
following  Catalogues  which  give  full  particulars  of  their 
Stock,  Prices,  &c.,  and  will  be  mailed  pre-paid  to  all 
applicants,  on  receipt  of  five  cents  for  each. 

No.  1  and  2,  Descriptive  Catalogue  of  Fruits  and  Orna¬ 
mental  Trees. 

No.  A,  'Wholesale  Catalogue  for  Nurserymen,  Dealers  and 
others  who  wish  to  buy  in  large  quantities. 

Address 

FROST  &  CO.,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 


Grape  Vines  for  AiitiissiR  1865. 
50,000  Delaware  Vines, 

■  Grown  from  single  eyes  of  well  matured  wood,  in  tlie  open 
ground.  I'hey  have  substantial  woody  roots  full  of  fibres, 
and  are  well  adapted  to  vineyard  or  trellis  culture. 

Such  plants  liave  given  entire  satisfaction  wlierever  tried, 
and  can  therefore  be  recommended  witli  confidence. 
PRICES. 

No.  1,  $.30.00  per  100.  $250.00  per  1000. 

No.  2,  $20.00  “  100.  $150.00  “  1000. 

No.  3,  $15.00  “  100.  $125.00  “  1000. 

Iona,  Israella,  Abihondac,  Allen’s  HYnniD,  Concord, 
AND  Rebecca  Vines. 

A  few  thousand  4-year  old  DWARF  AND  STAND¬ 
ARD  PEAR  TREES,  at  ipw  rates. 

J.  W.  HELMER,  Lock-port,  N.  T. 


rf^^RAPE  VINES. — All  the  best  sort.s  by  the  hun- 
^^dred,  dozen,  or  tliousaiid  :  cheap  as  the  cheapest,  and  as 
good  as  the  best.  Also  a  full  .assortment  of  Goodrich’s  Seed¬ 
ling  Potatoes.  Circulars  free.  Address 

D.  S.  HEFFRON,  Utica,  N.  Y. 


Alfl  the  Standard  Varieties. 


Great  Reduction  in  Prices. 

1  2  3  6  13 


Delaware . 

.  40 

75 

1 

10 

2 

00 

4 

00 

Concord.. . . . 

. 30 

55 

80 

1 

50 

3 

00 

Diana . 

.  35 

65 

1 

(10 

1 

so 

3 

50 

Rebecca . 

. 50 

90 

1 

40 

2 

5 

00 

Creveling . 

.  60 

1 

10 

1 

70 

3 

25 

6 

00 

Taylor . 

. 80 

55 

80 

1 

50 

3 

00 

Union  Village . 

. 60 

1 

10 

1 

70 

3 

25 

6 

00 

Cuyahoga . 

. 60 

1 

30 

1 

70 

3 

25 

0 

00 

Hartford  Prolific . 

.  50 

90 

1 

40 

2 

75 

5 

00 

A  few  of  most  other  kinds  for  sale  at  proportionate  prices. 
Send  for  Catalogue,  mailed  free.  Delaware,  Concord,  and 
Diana.  'The  best  three  varieties,  one  eacli,  for 

ONE  DOLEAR. 

Raised  from  Single  Eyes  and  Layers. 

Address  J.  H.  FOSTER,  Je.,  Box  060,  West  Newton, 

Westmoreland  Co.,  Pa. 


TITE  KITT.A.TIi^^lN'Y. 

Wliat  is  Said  of  it,  and  Wlio  Says  it. 


“Size  of  berry  fully  equal  but  rather  larger  rthan  Hochelle), 
deckledly  sweeter,  and  an  acquisition  to  this  class  of  iniits. 
I  co?isider  it  the  BEST  Blachherry  I  have  yet  seen." — 
Charles  Downing. 

“I  believe  it  to  be  the  .5.E'*S7’  Blackberry  I  know  of,  and 
shall  take  great  pleasure  in  recommending  it  to  my  friends.” 
— Wm.  S.  Carpenter. 

“Berries  longer  and  more  irregular  than  New  Rochelle; 
we  measured  several  an  inch  ana-a-half  long,  and  3  inches 
in  circumference.  Small  seeds,  .inicy,  sweet,  with  a  true 
Blackberry  flavor.  Tlie  fruit  possesses  the  great  advantage 
that  it  does  not  need  to  be  over-ripe  in  order  to  be  eatable, 
but  while  still  hard  enough  to  send  to  market,  it  is  sw'eet 
and  fit  for  the  table.”— Agricnltimst.}  , —  : 

“Equal  to  New  Rochelle  in  size  and  productiveness,  mucli 
superior  in  flavor,  and  ripens  a  few  days  earlier.’ — uM.  A. 
Fitch,  Associate  Editor  American  Agi'iciiUnrifit, 

“Superior,  sweeter,  and  better  flavor  than  Rochelle.”— 
Dr.  I.  P.  Trimble. 

For  originals  of  above  and  others,  prices,  &c.. 

Address  with  stamp.  E.  WILLIAMS,  Mont  Clair,  N.  J, 


Raspberry  &  Blaclcberry  Roots 
for  Sale,— 'Doolittle’s  Black  Cap. — 
Double  '^the  size  and  yields  double  the  crop  the  common 
black  RaspbeiTj’,  $1  per  doz.;  $3  per  100;  $15  per  1000.  Mia- 
ma  Black  Cap.— As  large  and  flne  as  Doolittle’s,  but  keeps 
in  bearing  ten  days  longer,  $1  per  doz.;  $3  per  100;  $20  per 
1000.  Purple  Cane. — Yields  immense  crops  of  delicious,  pur¬ 
plish,  red  fruit;  bears  most  enormously  of  any  other  sort 
grown,  $1  per  doz.;  $4  per  100 ;  $30  per  1000.  Catawissa.— Tlie 
best  “evernearer”  grown — yielding  large  crops  of  luscious 
fruit  from  tiie  middle  of  Sept,  until  frost  comes,  $2  per  doz.; 
$10  per  100.  Golden  Cap,  same  as  Black  Cap.  except  beauti¬ 
ful  golden  color ;  yields  heavy  crons,  $2  per  doz.;  25  cents 
each.  None  of  the  above  send  up  suckers,  and  neither  has  ever 
been  winter  killed,  notwithstanding  thermometer  has  stood 
at321iere.  Lawton  Blackberry,  $I  per  doz.;  $3  per  100.  Dor¬ 
chester  High  Bush,  do.,  $1  per  doz.;  $5  per  100.  Con^rd, 
T<jnhoiin  -  f'ntn whsv  nnd  Clinton  (ii'ane.  30  Cents  each.  Dola- 


$3  per  100.  Strawberry  Plants,  twent5’-two  sorts  (30  acres), 
low  bv  the  quantitv.  Cranberry  Plants,  $2.50  per  1000;  10,000 
tor  $20.  Grafted  Apple  Trees,  5  to  8  feet  high,  very  tine,  $12 
per  100;  4  to  5  feet,  $8  per  100.  2^  Charges  pre-paul  on  all 
orders  except  lor  Apple  Trees  and  Raspberry  roots,  at  the 
100  &  1000 rate.  Address,  with  Greenbacks  or  national  Cur¬ 
rency.  A.  M.  PURDY,  South  Bend,  St.  Jos.  Co.,  Indiana. 


STRAWBERRY  PLANTS 

BY  MAIL. 

Great  Agriculturist. 

75  cents  per  dozen  :  $2.50  per  50 

Wilson’s  Albany, 

Burr’s  New  Fine, 

Boston  Fine, 

Xrioinplie  de  Gaud, 

Fillujore, 

40  cents  per  dozen  ;  $1,50  per  100.  Lower  by  Express. 
Plant  in  September  and  obtain  lialf  crop  next  year. 

All  plants  warranted  genuine  and  of 

First  Quality. 

Address  .1.  11.  FOSTER,  .In.,  Box  COO,  West  Newton, 
IVestnioreland  Co.,  Pa. 


The  PhilHtleSphla  Haspberry. 

Wilson’s  Early  Blackberry. 

Best  Selected  Stratvberrics. 

Fruit  and  Ornamental  Trees,  Vines,  Asparagus  and  Rliu. 
barb  Plants.  Send  for  Catalogues  gratis. 

■WILLIAM  PARRY,  Clnnaininson,  N.  J. 


The  Great  Agricailtiirist 


§»trawherry. 


Fine  plants  of  this  superb  fruit,  $1  per  dozen;  $5  per  100; 
$25  per  1000 ;  witli  all  otlier  superior  sorts,  the  best  colLec 
tion  in  the  country.  Agents  Wanted.  Catalogues  ready. 

B.  M.  V’ATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 


NRUIT  GROWERS  LOOK  TO  YOUR  TNTER- 

EST.— Blackberries  will  not  sell  well  when  peaches  are 
enty.  The  genuine  Wilson  Early  will  be  out  of  the  way. 
Iso,  Strawberry  and  Raspbe-rrv  Plants  for  sale. 

■JOHN  S.  COLLINS,  Moorestown.N.  J. 


'  326 


AMERICAN  ACRIGULTURIST, 


[October, 


25©,©©®  Fear  Trees. 

We  have  an  Immense  stock  of  first  quality  Standard 
and  Dwarf  Pear  Trees,  suitable  for  transplanting  in 
Orcliards  and  Gardens. 

Also  an  extensive  Stock  of  and  and  3rd  sizes  suitable  to 
transplant  into  IV xtrsery  Rows  and  grow  2  to  3  years  to 
form  fine  and  extra  sized  trees.  Any  of  which  will  be  sold 
by  the  100  or  1000,  at  tlie  lowest  rates  for  the  same  quality. 

For  description  and  prices,  Address,  with  stamp  enclosed, 
FS50ST  &  CO., 
Genesee  Valley  Nurseries, 
Itocliester,  N.  V. 


S^ureka  Cider  Mills. 

Knreka  Hay  ami  Stalk  Cutters. 

Having  been  appointed  by  the  manufacturer  Sole  Agents 
for  the  sale  of  these  valuable  impleiuents  in  the  States  of 
New  York,  New  Jersey,  &c.,  we  would  like  to  have  an  ac¬ 
tive  and  responsible  Agent  to  sell  the  above  in  every  town, 
and  also  to  sell  the  following  articles ;  Shares’  Patent  Coul¬ 
ter  Harrow,  Clement’s  Horse  Hay  Fork,  New  World  Clothes 
Wringer,  Union  .Vowing  Machines,  Grain  Drills,  and  Imple¬ 
ments  of  nil  kinds.  A  liberal  percentage  allowed.  No  goods 
sent  on  Commission. 

Orders  received  for  Seeds,  Trees,  Vines,  Strawberry  Plants, 
&c.,  of  the  leading  kinds.  HAINKS  &  PELl, 

27  Courtlandt-st.,  New-York. 

Special  IxorcEMENT. — To  any  Agent  or  farmer  purchas¬ 
ing  a  Union  Mower,  within  the  next  00  days,  we  will  allow  a 
discount  of  from  20  to  25  per  cent,  from  the  probable  prices 
of  the  next  season. 


SUFEMIOIS  TIEE 

made  of  the  celebrated,  strong,  tenacious  chay  of  Wood- 
bridge,  N.  J.,  burned  with  intense  heat  over  the  Fire  Brick, 
in  Fire  Brick  kilns,  and  sold  at  moderate  prices,  as  the  clay 
must  be  removed  from  over  valuable  beds  of  tlie  best 
White  Ware,  and  Fire  Brick  clay.  Also  double  glazed 
Stone  Ware  Pipe,  with  collars  for  making  water-tight  pipe  to 
conduct"  pure  water  free  from  rust  and  poison.  Stove  Lin¬ 
ings  and  Fire  Brick,  &c.,  &c.,  of  best  quality.  Snipped  by 
Railroad  or  water  direct  from  Factory,  on  Sliip  Channel  of 
Raritan  River,  27  miles  from  New  York  City. 

CKOSS.\I.VN  BROS’.  &  CO.,  Woodhrldge,  N.  J.1 


Flax  Straightensrs — Flax  Brakes 
— Flax  Combers. 

The  Stralghtener  will  take  tangled  straw  and  straighten  It 
all  right  for  tne  Flax  Brake— and  this  will  do  the  work  first- 
rate  tor  the  New  Comber,  that  will  take  tangled  tow,  and 
produce  rapidly  a  fibre  free  from  shive,  yet  fine  and  adapted 
to  Carding  and  Spinning.  This  Comber  does  just  what  has 
long  been  wanted.  Prices  reduced  to  old  rates.  Send  for  a 
Circular  (no  charge)  to  JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 

Treasurer  Mallorv  &  Sanford  Company, 

98  lYilliam-street,  New-York. 


To  Manufactors  of  Agricultural 

MACHINERY,  wishing  to  Introduce  their  Implements  ;in 
the  State  of  South  Carolina,  will  address  W.  W.  AVARD  & 
CO.,  No.  157  E.ast  B,ay-st.,  Charleston,  S.  C.,  or  at  this  office, 
when  an  Interview  can  be  had  with  one  of  the  Firm. 


BOME  TA-FEUII 

Has  been  tested  by  thousands  of  farmers  and 
found  superior  to  any  otlier  manure  for  Fall 
and  Winter  grain,  and  for  a  top-dressing  on 
lawns  and  nieadows. 

It  is  manufactured  for  and  used  as  a  substi¬ 
tute  for  Peruvian  guauo,  and  judged  by  many 
to  he  fully  equal  to  it.  It  is  sold  at  the  low 
price  of  $45  per  Ton. 

Manufactured  only  by  the 
LODI  MANUFACTURING  COMPANY, 

66  Courtlandt-st.,  New  York, 
to  whom  all  orders  must  he  addressed. 

NOTICE  TO  SfllFFERS 
SOAP-MAKERS,  CMANO- 
EERS,  AND  COENTRA 
MERCHANTS. 

The  undersigned  pay  their  particular  attention  to  filling 
orders  for 

RoKln,  Palm  Oil,  Soda  Asli,  Sal  Soda, 
Caustic  Soda,  Indigo,  Ac.  Consigumeiits 
of  Tallow,  Grease,  and  General  Western 
Produce  promptly  sold  by 

ABRAM  MNIOMT  &  SONS, 

Commission  Moreliants, 

32  Wascr-St.,  Kew-York  City. 

sTb,  CONOVER, 

Coiiisiaissioii  l^esiler, 

260,  261  &  26’2  West  Wasliin"ton  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FULTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Refers  to  the  Ed’tor  of  the  American  Agriculturist. 


CjUPEItlOK TABEM  20,000 

Acres,  Franklm  Tract,  at  Newllold,  Gloucester  County, 
N ew  Jersey,  on  the  Railroad  running  from  Philadelphia  to 
Cape  May,  30  miles  South  of  Philadelphia— adjoining  the 
Vineland  Tract,  and  2  milesNorth  of  the  Vineland  Station— 
for  sale  at  low  prices  and  on  easy  terms,  in  lots  to  suit  pur¬ 
chasers.  Circulars  with  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  lion. 
William  Parry,  and  otlip.rs.  with  full  information,  sent  to  ap¬ 
plicants,  free.  Address  JOHU  H.  COFFIN  &  CO„  New- 
fleld,  Gloucester  Co..  N.  J.  Improved  Farms  also  for  Sale. 


New-York. 

.Produce  Commission  Merchants, 

FOB  THE  SALE  OP 


Si  H 

U  !» 

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P  u 


»  I J  *• 

xti  ]£  VI 

»  P  S 

0  0 

P  P  S 


U  JH  ^  2  Q 

!3  S  P  S  H 


m  m 

la  fi 


P  m 


• ...  S 


II 


Send  for  Weekly  Price  Current,  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

Country  Consignments  receive  special  attention. 


KEFERF.NCES ; 


Beni.  Loder,  Esq..  N.  Y. 

Ex-Pres’t.  Erie  II.  li 
Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Chicago,  Ill. 
Hon.  J.  K.  Porter, 
Albany,  N.  Y. 


Wm.  S.  Thorn,  Esq.,  N.  T. 

Prest.  Na’l  Fire  Ins.  Co. 
I.ane,  Son  &  Co.,  N.  Y. 
Truman.  Stratton  &  Co., 
Orange.  N.  Y. 

Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O. 


VINEEAND 

AA»  FKIJI'r  I-AIV»S,  in  a 

mild  and  healthful  climate.  Thirty  miles  souffi  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  by  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soil  is  rich  and  productive,  ytxrymg  from  a  claytoa 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wheat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  have  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
immeuse  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  Improvements.  The  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  the  renort  of  people  qf  taste.  It  has  in¬ 
creased  five  thousand  peoi)le  within  the.  past  three  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  arc  being  constructed,  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  be  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  I’rice  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  In 
■any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  the  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  healthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  other  social  privileges,  in  the 
heart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  the  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CIIAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Townsliip,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  tee  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies, 


FDR  S  A  E  E . 

FARMING  AND 

MARKET  GARDENING 

L  rv  I>  s 

IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THF,  SUBSCRIBERS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  the  line  of  the  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bav  Kailroad,‘'mid- 
way  between  New-York  and  Philadelpliia,  at  from  $10  to  $15 
per  acre.  In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm, 
these  lauds  are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet 
potatoes,  peaclies,  grapes,  tobacco  and  Imps.  All 
crops  ripen  ten  davs  earlier  tlian  on  Long  Island. 
Squankum  marl  is  delivered  at  any  point  on  tlie  rail¬ 
road  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per  ton,  and  fertil¬ 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  application.  The 
lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber,  suita¬ 
ble  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  olf.  leaving  the  land  ready  for  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  fails,  $.'>  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
contain  a  large  qi  antity  n(  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  the  mamifactnrj  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
one  mile  of  Sliamong  Station.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
watercxcellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  .and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purpose's.  A  portion  of  the  purchase  money  may 
remain  on  mortgage.  Terms  very  favorable  to  purchasers. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHET  WOOD,  Elizabeth.  N.  .1. 

W.M.  O.  GILES,  70  &  ?2  Frankliii-sl..  New-York. 
and  N.  P.  TODD  ag’t  Shamong,  Burlington  Co., 

New  Jersey. 


General  Seutlicrn  Land  Agency, 

NEW  YORK  OFFICE,  No.  C2  BROADWAY. 
FOR  SALE  OR  LEASE, — valuable  Lands  in  all  the 
Southern  Stales.  KEMP  P.  BATTLE,  Secretary, 
Authorized  References 
PETER  COOPER,  E.sq.,  New-Yoik. 

JAY  COOKE,  Esq.,  Philadelphia. 

A.  A.  LOWE,  Esq.,  Prest.  Chamber  of  Commerce,  N.  Y. 
GEO.  H.  STU.ART,  Esq.,  Philadelphia. 

His  Excellency  Gov.  HOLDEN,  of  North  Carolina. 

For  further  information  apply  by  letter  or  in  person. 


Every  Child  on  the  Continent  should  have  it  I 

The  Best  Children’s  Paper  in  America. 


Pit^hting  against 
VroBg,  and  for  lh« 

Good,  the  Tm* ,  and 
the  EjauiifuU 

A  First-Clnfts  Iffonlblj  Paper,  of  IC 
Pa?es,  for  UOYS  and  GlIlLS* 

$1.00  a  Year  ia  advance. 

A  Bcaudful  Premium  to  every  Bubseriber* 
Epecimeu  Copy  sent  tor  'Xen  Cents. 

Address, 

ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 
Publisher,  Chicago,  Ill. 

“  Mr.  Sewell’s  Paper  already  excels  every  oilier  children’s 
paper  that  we  know  of  in  this  coxinvcy ."—Chicago Eve.  Jour. 


ARTHUR’S  HOME  MAGAZINE. 

It  is  with'  pleasure  that  we  are  able  to  announce  a  much 
larger  circulation  for  the  “HOME  MAGAZINE  ”  during 
the  present  year  than  it  has  ever  before  attained;  and  also  a 
more  heartily  expressed  approval,  by  subscribers  and  the 
press,  of  its  tone  and  character. 

During  the  next  year,  we  shall  bring  into  its  pages  a  still 
more  vigorous  literary  life— a  higher  excellence— a  broader 
spirit,  and  a  more  earnest  advocacy  of  all  things  pure  and 
noble.  The  terms  will  remain  the  same,  hut  from  eight  to 
sixteen  pages  of  reading  will  he  added,  and  the  quality  of 
the  paper  Improved,  so  as  to  place  our  magazine  in  all  re¬ 
spects  among  the  leading  periodicals  of  the  ifay.— Terms  : 
$2.50  a  year,  3  copies  for  $6,  5  copies  and  one  to  getter-up  of 
club,  $10.  Single  numbers  for  sale  by  News  Agents  through¬ 
out  the  United  States.  Two  volumes  a  year,  beginning  in 


January  and  July. 

Address  T.  S.  ARTHUR  &  CO„ 

823  Walnut-street,  Philadelphia,  Pa. 


Jcachlti&y 


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without  an  instructor.” — Scientific  AmeiHcan. 

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instead  of  $1.50.”— Joiirmai  and  Messenger. 

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penmen  without  teacliers.”— CArtsfiaii  Serald. 

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The  whole  is  printed  on  Card  board  slips,  embracing  Ele¬ 
ments,  Small  Alphabet,  Capitals,  Ladies'^  styles.  Epistolary 
and  Business  Forms,  consisting  of  914  copies  on  Card  hoard 
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BABBITT  &  WILT,  37  Park  Row,  New  York. 


TPIE  phrenological  journal  and  LIFE 

ILLUSTRATED  Isa  "llr.st-class  ”  work-in  its  43d  vol., 
devoted  to  Physiognomy,  with  “Signs  of  Character;” 
Piihf.nolooy,  the  Natural  History  of  Man  ;  Phhenoloot, 
and  the  Temperaments;  Physiology,  the  Laws  of  Life  and 
Health;  Psychology,  the  Science  of  the  Soul.  Amply  lllius- 
trated.  Monthly,  $2  a  year;  sample  Nos.  20  cents.  Address 
Messrs.  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  No.  3S9  Broadway,  New-York. 


m 


^MUSICAL  PIONEER.  —  Now  Vol. 


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and  eight  of  reading  matter  monlhl.v,  and  only  Eifty  Cents 
per  Annum!  Great  inducements  for  clubs.  PARLOR  OR¬ 
GAN  and  elegant  MELODEON  nmong  the  premiums.  For 
all  partlcnlars,  address  the  puhlt.sher,  enclosing  six  cents  in 
stamps.  F.  J.  HUNTINGTON,  431  Broome-st.,  New-York. 


WANTED-CANVASSERS  in  every  Coun¬ 
ty,  to  sell  Powell’s  Great  National  Picture  of  the 
voters  in  Congress  for  the  Constitution.al  Amendnient. 
Thorough  Agents  clear  $100  to  $300  per  month,  Send  for 
Circular  or  call  on  POWELI,  &  CO.,  24  Bible  House,  N.  Y. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


327 


A.G-ETVTS  W-A^NTJEn 
TO  SELL 

The  Amerieait  Coefflict, 

By  HOKACE  BMEEI,.E'y. 

This  work  has  no  rival  ns  a  canrtW,  lucid,  complete  and 
authentic  history  of  tlie  Great  Civil  war.  Its  popularity  is 
sufficiently  indicated  by  the  fact  that  tlie  weekly  sales  of 
Vol.  I,  are  greater  than  those  of  all  similar  histories  united. 

Vol.  II,  will  bo  completed  at  the  earliest  day  consistent 
with  thoroughness  and  accurac)’.  Tlie  authorhaving  availed 
himself  of  the  full  Official  Reports  of  tlie  Confederate,  as 
tvell  as  the  Union  auHioritles,  will  present  hotli  sides  of  the 
great  struggle  with  equal  fairness.  Tliis  volume  will  abund¬ 
antly  sustain  tlie  high  reputation  of  Vol.  I. 

From  the  Albany  Evening  Journal. 

No  man  in  America  is  more  conversant  with  the  subject 
tlian  Mr.  Greeley,  and  none  more  competent  to  do  it  justice. 
*  «  *  »  ■»  *  ‘We  confess  that  in  this  work 

tve  are  agreeably  disappointed.  It  is  pervaded  by  a  spirit  of 
catliolicity  and  a  freedom  from  partisan  leaning  that  some 
of  his  best,  friends  did  not  expect. 

From  the  Netv-Tork  Herald. 

“The  American  Conflict,”  by  Horace  Greeley,  may  prove 
to  the  progressive  tliinkers  of  all  nations  a  work  of  equal 
Interest  with  Napoleon's  “Life  of  Ctesar.”  «  «  «  The 
Emperor,  with  his  mighty  legions  at  liis  back,  has  been  the 
leader  of  the  nations  during  the  past  tliirty  centuries;  the 
Editor,  with  liis  burning  tliouglits  printed  in  front,  will  be 
the  leader  of  the  nations  in  the  fifty  centuries  to  come. 

From  The  New-Tork  Leader. 

No  public  man,  whatever  liis  politics  and  prejudices  may 
be,  ihould  refuse  to  it  a  prominent  place  in  his  library. 

From  the  Cincinnati  Enquirer. 

It  is  of  course  a  history  from  a  standpoint  of  observation 
far  distant  from  our  own,  and  from  tlie  Democracy  gener¬ 
ally,  but  it  is  marked  bynincb  less  prejudice,  and  is  disfig¬ 
ured  by  far  less  partisan  feeling  tlian  most  of  our  Iriends 
would  imagine.  It  contains  a  vast  amount  of  information, 
and  is  altogetlier  superior  for  reference  to  any  volume  on 
the  subject  tliat  has  yet  appeared. 

From  The  London  Daily  News. 

IVe  eirnestly  recommend  this  history  as  a  work  of  marked 
ability  and  perfect  good  faith.  No  person  of  candor,  what¬ 
ever  may  be  his  opinions,  could  read  it  without  feeling  in¬ 
debted  to  the  autiior. 

From  The  London  Saturday  Review. 

Mr.  Greeley  is  qualified  above  all  his  cotemporaries  for  the 
task  wliicli  he  has  undertaken.  ♦  *  •  No  writer 

has  shown  more  fully  how  tlie  leaders  of  the  South,  were 
gradually  tempted  and  encouraged  into  a  fatal  and  almost 
inexplicable  mistake. 

From  The  London  IVestminster  Review. 

None  who  read  it  can  wonder  at  the  almost  unexampled 
favor  with  wlilch  it  has  been  received. 

Address  O.  D  CASE  &  CO.,  Publisbers,  at  Hartford,  Conn.; 
Boston,  Mass.;  Cleveland,  Ohio;  Cincinnati,  Ohio ;  and  De¬ 
troit,  Mich.;  J.  C.  DERBY,  General  Agent,  No.  o  Spruce-st., 
New-Tork;  GEO.  &  C.  W.  SHEliWOOD,  Chicago,  Ill. 


Now  Beady, 

THE  PRAISE  OF  ZION. 

A  new  Collection  of  Music  for  Singing  Schools,  Choirs, 
Musical  Conventions,  and  tlie  Home  Circle,  containing  a 
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The  publishers  call  attention  to  this  new  work  with 
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Jan.  to  July  1866)  for  ^5  cents :  specimens  post-paid.  10  cts. 
Ihe  January  No.  will  be  ready  Nov.  15,  subsequent  Sos.  two 
■weeks  preceding  tlieir  date.  Send  on  your  subscriptions 
now.  Club  of  five,  $1.  Should  the  Monthly  be  discontinued 
any  time  before  the  expiration  of  the  six  months  the  entire 
subscription  willhe  ref unded.  No  free  copies.  If  there 
is  a  dealer  in  your  vicinity,  -we  prefer  you  sliould  get  our 
publications  of  him.  Dealers  supplied  by  American  News 
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In  full.  Orders  should  be  sent  in  as  soon  as  convenient  to 
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ITEW  AHB  POPUIAR  SIITGING  BOOK, 

For  Clioirs  and  Singing  Scliools, 

Entitled  THE  NEW  SACRED  STAR.  By  Leonabd  Mab- 
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to  offer  in  tliis  volume  a  collection  of  music  uncommonly 
well  adapted  to  the  wants  of  the  public,  together  with  a  se¬ 
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OLIVER  DI'TSON  &  CO.,  Publishers,  Boston. 


The  hog  BREEDER’S  MANUAL  sent  to  any 

address  free  of  charge,  every  farmer  should  have  it. 
Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


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BOOKS  FOE  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 


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at  a  Railkoad  Depot;  on  the  Cabs;  at  a  Wedding  ;  on  a 
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it  produces  Is  always  Ne'W,  Feksh  and  Attbacti'Ye,  and 
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A  Few  OT«re  Ijcft 

OF 

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Price  25  Cents. 

Of  this  popular  play  the  “American  Agriculturist"  says: 
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tlie  young  folks  were  amusing  themselves  with  this  innocent 
and  amusing  game.  It  is  not  a  humbug.” 

The  publisher  of  “  The  Old  Oaken  Bucket,"  Portland,  Me., 
■writes:  “  The  cliildren  of  all  ages  are  much  pleased  with  it. 
It  is  liard  getting  tliem  to  bed  in  proper  season.  One  of  my 
neiglibors  hearing  the  uproar,  wanted  to  know  the  cause  of 
such  untimely  mirth.  I  told  liim.  He  immediately  handed 
me  twenty-five  cents,  and  desired  me  to  obtain  one  for  him.” 

A  lady  at  Highland,  Ind.,  writes;— “It  is  more  than  it  is 
recommended  to  be.  I  have  had  more  than  Jive  times  the 
amount  of  my  money  in  the  sport  it  has  caused.  All  are  per¬ 
fectly  delighted  with  It.” 

W.  J.  Townsend,  of  Skaneateles,  N.  Y.,  ■writes  I  have 
iiad  considerable  company  at  my  house,  and  both  old  and 
young  are  raucli  pleased  -with  the  game.  Although  we  have 
several  other  kinds  they  are  all  thrown  aside  for  yours. 
Please  send  three  more.” 

So  say  they  all  of  them;  and  so  will  all  say  of  the  “Thbek 
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need  never  know  a  dull  day  or  evening,  or  he  troubled  ivith 
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the  Ice.”  Sent  Post-paid,  on  receipt  of  price,  By 

AMSB>EN  &  C€>.,  Fublisliei-s, 
BOSTON. 


TO  SELL 

FOUR  YEARS  IN  SECESSIA ; 

ADVENTURES 

Wiram  AM)  BEfOND  THE  IMIOI  LIBfES  i 

JUNIUS  HENRI  BROWNE, 

Special  War  Correspondent  op  the  N.  T.  Tkibune. 

This  work  furnishes  an  intensely  interesting  account  of  the 
author's  adventures  during  tlie  late  war,  embracing  a  wide 
range  of  stirring  events,  and  a  great  variety  of  facts  and 
Incidents  of  most  thrilling  character. 

It  is  having  a  great  sale  and  offers  rare  Inducements  to 
experienced  canvassers,  returned  soldiers,  ladies,  teachers, 
etc.  Sold  only  by  subscription,  and  exclusive  territory  guar¬ 
anteed. 

“  Mr.  Browne  has  produced  one  of  the  most  readable  hooka 
that  have  swarmed  from  the  press  since  tlie  commencement 
of  the  year.”— Wew  York  Tribune. 

“Full  of  thrilling  incidents  and  curious  matter  for  history.” 
—Philadelphia  Inquirer. 

“This  book  bears  the  Impress  of  vitality  and  power  on 
every  page.”— W.  Y.  Independent. 

“Mr.  Browne's  book  abounds  in  rollcking  fun  and  humor. 
His  pictures  of  Bohemian  life  in  the  army  are  very  rich.”— 
Brooklyn  Daily  Times. 

“His  cultivated  mind  and  keenness  of  perception  have  en¬ 
abled  him  to  see  much  that  ordinary  observers  would  have 
passed  unnoticed.”- tt'nciiinalt  Gazette. 

“A  book  of  riveting  interest,  and  one  in  which  people  of 
all  ages  will  delight.”— /ncManapoh's  Journal. 

Address  O.  D.  CASE  &  CO.,  Publishers,  at  Hartford,  Conn.; 
Boston,  Mass.;  Cleveland.  Ohio;  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and  De¬ 
troit,  Mich.  GEO.  &  C.  IV.  SHERIVOOD,  Chicago,  Ill. 


AND  ROGUERIES  OF  N.  Y. 
Now  Ready.  130  12  mo.  pages,  only 
85  cents.  Sent  post-paid.  YeUs  ail 
about  Lotteries,  Policy  Dealers.  Mat¬ 
rimonial  Advertisements,  “Personals,”  Fortune.  Telling, 
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and  their 'Victims.  Garroting,  Higliway  Robbery,  Pickpock¬ 
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all  kinds  of  Rascality.  Useful  and  entertaining  to  all.  I,3t) 
pages,  beautifully  Illustrated,  only  8.5  cents,  post-p.aid.  Sold 
by  all  Dealers.  J.  c.  HANEY  &  CO.,  Publishei's,  109  Nas- 
sau-street,  New-York. 


ROOUES 


[Any  of  the  following  boolcs  can  bo  obtained  at  the  Of¬ 


fice  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  be 
forwarded  by  mM,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 


prices  are  positively  good  only  to  November  let.] 


Allen’s  (L.  F.)  Rural  Architecture . . . |  i  50 

Allen's  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book .  1  50 

Allen's  Diseases  of  Domestic  Animals . .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier .  gq 


American  Rose  Cultnrlst . 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants . 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holly) . . . 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden  . 

Beecher’s  (Henry  'Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming.. 

Bement’s  Poulterer's  Companion . 

Bemenfs  Rabbit  Fancier . . .  . . . . . . 

Blake's  Farmer's  Encv^clopedia . . . ! . 

Boussingault's  Rural  Economy . 

Brldgeman’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual . 

Bridgefnan’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant . 

Bridgeman's  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor . 

Bridgeman’s  Florist's  Guide . . 

Brandt's  Age  of  Horses  (English  and  German) . 

Break’s  Book  of  Flowers . . . 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures . 

Buist’s  Flower  garden  Directory . . . 

Buist’s  Family  Kitchen  Gardener . 

Burr’s  Vegetables  ol  America .  ..  ..  . . 

Carpenters  and  Joiners’  Hand  Book.  .(Holly). . . . 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower's  Guide . 

Cobbett’s  American  Gardener . . . 

Cole's  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book. . . 

Cole’s  Veterinarian . . . . 

Colman’s  Agriculture . . 

Copeland’s  Country  Life . 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper . 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  (Turner) . 

Dadd’s  Modern  Horse  Doctor . 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor . 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual . . . . . 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper's) . 

Downing's  Landscape  Gardening  (new  Edition) . 

Downing’s  Cottage  Residences . 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America . 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry . 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide . 

Employment  of  Women — By  Virginia  Penny . 

Fessenden’s  Complete  Farmer  and  Gardener . 

Flax  Culture . . 

French’s  Farm  Drainage . 

Field's  (Thomas  W.)  Pear  Culture . 

Fish  Culture . . . 

Flint  (Cliarles  L.)  on  Grasses . 

Flint’s  Milcli  Cows  and  Dairy  Farming . . . 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist . . . 

Fuller's  Strawberry  Culturist . 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding . 

Graj'’sManiml  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol... _ 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow . . 

Guenon  on  Milcli  Cows . . . 

Hall’s  (Miss)  American  Cookery . 

Haraszthy  Grape  Culture,  &c . 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  plain . 

do.  do.  do.  do.  colored  plates.. . 

Herbert’s  Hinlato  Horsekeepers . 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  by  Cleveland . 

Holly’s  Country  Seats.. . 

Hop  Culture . 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One . 

Insect  Enemies  of  Fruit  Trees,  (Trimble) . 

Oaques’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees.. . 

Jennings  on  Cattle,  Sheep,  &c . . . 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry . 

Johnston’s  Elements  of  A.gricultural  Cliemiatry . 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening . 

Langstrotli  on  tlie  Honey  Bee  . 

Loudon’s  (Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden . 

Lenehar’s  Howto  Build  Hot-liouses . . 

Liebig’s  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry., . 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture . 

Liebig’s  Natural  Laws  of  Husbandry . 

Lmsley’s  (D.  C.)  Morgan  Horses  .  . . 

Manual  of  Agricnlture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint. 

Mavliew's  Illuatrateii  Horse  Doctor  . 

Mavliew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management . 

McMahon’s  American  Gardener . 

Miles  on  the  Horse's  foot . . . 

Morrell’s  American  Shepherd — . . . . 

My  Farm  of  Edgewood . . . 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record . . 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener, ...(Pardee). . . . 

Norton's  Scientific  Agriculture . . . . . 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee . 

Onion  Culture  . .  — . . 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (bound)  60c . (paper) 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture . 

Parsons  on  the  Rose . 

Phantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves . . 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer . 

Quinbv’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping. . . . . 

Rabbit  Fancier . . . 

Randall’s  Sheep  Husbandry . . . 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry. . .  . 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden . 

Richardson  on  the  Dog . 

Rivers’  Orchard  Houses . 

Rural  Affairs.... (bound).... 8  Vols. . .  .eacli . 

Saunder's  Domestic  Poultry.... paper,  80  cts. ..hound. . 

Saxton’s  Farmers'  Library. .set  ofS  Vols.  morocco . 

do  do  do  do  3  Vols.. cloth  . 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Text  Book . 

Shepherd’s  own  Book . . . 

Skillful  Housewife  . 

Smltli’s  Landscape  Gardening. . . . . . 

Spencer’s  Education  of  Cliildren . 

Stewart’s  (.Jolmi  Sraiile  Book . 

Templeton’s  Mechanic’s  Pocket  Companion . 

Ten  Acres  Enough . 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture . 

Thomas'  Fruit  Cnltiirist . 

Thompson's  Food  of  Animals.. . 

Tobacco  Culture  . . , . 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual . 

Tucker’s  Register  Rural  Afi'airs . 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cottages .  •  ■ . 

Villas  and  Farm  Cottages.  (Cleaveland  and  Backus)... 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture . 

Warder’s  Hedges  and  Evergreens . 

Waring’s  Elements  of  Agriculture . 

Watson’s  American  Home  Garden  . 

W'ax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making).  . 

Wheat  Plant  (John  Klippart’s) . . 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes . 

Woodward’s  Graperies . .  . 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  the  Horse  . 

Youatt  and  hlartin  on  Cattle . 

Youatt  on  the  Hog . 

Youatt  on  Slicep . 

Youmans' Household  Science . 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry . 


30 
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2  00 

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AMEiliCAN  AORICULTURIST. 


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VOLUME  XXIV— No.  11. 


NEW- YORK,  NOVEMBER,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  226. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1S64,  hy 
Ohange  Judd,  in  tlie  Clerk’s  Oflice  of  the  District  Court  of 
the  United  States  for  the  SoiUliern  District  of  New-York. 

Other  Jonrnals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  if  each  articio  he  credited  to  American  AgricuUicrist. 


Contents  for  ITovember,  1865. 


American  Yew  or  Ground  Hemlock . Illustrated.  .Zi5 

Bene  or  Sesame  . Illustrated.  .3iS 

Bees — Apiary  in  November . 331 

Books  for  Farmers  and  Others . 332 

Boys  and  Girl.s’  Columns— Good  Premiums — About 
(ioing  to  School — A  Lesson  for  all  to  Learn — A  Chi¬ 
nese  Story — Friglitened  Workman— A  Valuable 
Peach— Honesty  the  Best  Policy — Problems  and 
Puzzles— A  Glorious  Ride— How  tliey  Used  to  Tele¬ 
graph . 2  Illustrations  .351,  352 

Broom — Brush  for  Stables . Illustrated.  .3il 

Buckwheat — Sloring  Umlireshed . 343 

Butternut  Shell  Ornaments . Illustrated .  .349 

Cardinal  Flower . Illustrated.  .34S 

Cattle  for  Slaughter— Inspecting . Illustrated.  .344 

Cheese  Factories . Illustrated.  .349 

Cinnamon  and  Cassia . 3  Illustrations.  .349 

Cold  Grapery . 331 

Corn — How  to  Husk  Quickly . Illustrated.. 338 

Corn  Stalks— Binding  Shooks.. . Illustrated.  .343 

Dogs — Bells  to  Prevent  Sheep-killing . 339 

Earth  Closets . 347 

Exliibiters — Hints  to  . 346 

Exhibition  Tables  at  Agriculturist  Office .  331 

Farm  Work  for  November . 329 

Farming — Western  . 339 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  November . 330 

Flower  Garden — Hints  for . 347 

Fruit  Lists— Local . . . 347 

Garden— Kitchen  in  November . 330 

Grape  Vines — Pruning . 3  Illustrations .  .345 

Grapes — Notes  on . 346 

Grass,  Quack — Getting  Rid  of . Illustrated.  .341 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  November .  330 

Hogs — Killing  and  Scalding . 2  Illustrations .  .331 

House  Plants— Care  of . 348 

Ice — Provide  for  next  Summer . 350 

Labor  Saving — Labor  Making . 343 

Market  Reports  and  Commercial  Notes .  332 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  November . ....330 

Plowing  Wet  Ground  in  Autumn  . Illustrated.. 341 

Plows— Right  and  Left  Hand . 339 

Potatoes  Planted  under  Straw . 342 

Premiums  offered  for  1866 . ,331 

Roots — Burying  in  .a  Pit . Illustrated.  .342 

Sheep — Live  and  Dead  Weight . . . 339 

Sheep — Preparations  for  Feeding . 337 

Shoes — Wooden,  Clogs,  Patens,  etc . Illustrated.  .359 

Shovels — How  to  Handle . Illustrated.  .349 

Trout — Bleeding . 343 

Turkeys— Fattening . 338 

Walks — Asphalt  or  Coal  Tar . ..,..347 

Warmth  in  Clothing,  Houses,  elc . 350 

Wheat— Amount  of  Seed  per  Acre . 341 

Yeast — How  to  Make  at  First . 350 

INDEX  TO  “  BASKET,”  OR  SHORTER  ARTICLES. 


Advertisem’ts-Noticing  333 

Advice,  Good . 336 

Apple,  Sw'eet,  Sour  ...336 
Bean  Pods-for  Swine. ..336 
Bone  Dust  for  Wheat.  .334 

Brandy,  Sorghum  . 336 

Compost  Heap . 334 

Corn  Cribs,  Measuring.  .336 

Cows,  Yoke  for . 335 

Cuttings  in  Autumn  . . .  336 
Death,  Joseph  Frost. .,  .334 

Drouth,  Severe  . 333 

Entomologist,  Piactical.333 

Exhibition  Am.  Inst - 334 

Exhibition,  French . 333 

Fence  Posts,  Pres’ving..334 

Fences,  Queries . 336 

Fruit,  Early  Ripening  .334 
Grapevine,  Moving ■. ..336 
Grass  Scythes,  Form.. ..336 
Hen  Lice,  Expelling. ...335 
Horse,  Tethering . 335 


Hort.  Society,  Pa . 333 

Hort.  Society,  Alass . 334 

flort.  Soc.,  Worcester.. 334 
House  Plants,  Manuring.334 
Housekeeping  Book.... 335 

Humbugs,  Caution . 333 

Insect  Book . 335 

Inspector  General . 335 

Lilacs  in  Bloom . 336 

Locust  Killer . 334 

Locust,  Red . 335 

Manure  Wasted . 334 

Manuring  House  Plants.334 

■Medical  Questions . 335 

Marl,  How  to  Use . 334 

Mowers,  Trial  of . 333 

Mucilage  and  Ink . 335 

Nursery  Book . 336 

Patent  Rights . 335 

Pianos,  Premium  . 333 

Plants  Named . 336 

Poultry  Lice . 334 


Poultry,  Roup . 3.36 

Premiums  Good . 333 

Quassia  for  Ants.  . 335 

Root  Pruning . 336 

Sidt  and  Lime . 334 

Sanitary  Commission . .  335 

Sawdust  Manure . 334 

Sheep  at  N.  Y.  S.  Fair.  .335 

Sheep  Diarrlicea _ _ 334 

Sheep  Management . 334 


Smoke  House  — .... .  .336 

Smut  in  Wheat . 335 

Soaji,  Hardening  . 335 

Sirawberrv  Runners  ...336 

Tomato.  Tilden . 336 

Trees,  Injured . 335 

Turkeys,  Fattening . 336 

Turnip,  White  French. ..335 

Water,  Pumping .  335 

AVine  Plant . 336 


Uotes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

November  work  is  that  of  preparation  for  the 
winter ;  fitting  stock  and  their  quarters  for  the 
cold  season }  finishing  np  the  fattening  of 
those  animals  destined  for  the  market,  and 
turning  those  fiirm  crops  which  can  be  disposed 
of  into  money,  or  something  else,  AvlTTch  will 
equally  contribute  to  happiness.  November  is  the 
month  of  full  granaries,  and  of  thankful  hearts. 
A  good  Providence  has  vouchsafed  to  this 
country  all  that  we  need  of  the  fruits  of  tlie 
earth,  and  a  great  deal  more ;  and  thougii  some¬ 
times  in  particular  sections  we  may  have  had 
larger  harvests,  yet  taking  the  value  of  gold  and 
of  exchange  into  consideration,  and  the  prices 
which  are  likely  to  rule,  it  is  probable  that  we 
have  never  had  a  season  of  greater  agricultural 
prosperity.  We  have  poor  to  care  for,  and  early 
and  generous  thoughtfulness  for  them  will  pro¬ 
vide  work  for  many,  and  comfort  for  many 
more,  who  in  the  proverbial  improvidence  of 
poverty  might  otherwise  sutfer  from  the  neces¬ 
sities  of  life,  lose  health  and  pluck,  honesty, 
honor  and  perhaps  life  itself.  Let  ns  not  forget 
this,  among  our  other  November  work. 

Buildings. — Look  well  to  roofs  of  all  kinds. 
Stop  holes  and  give  a  coat  of  coal  tar  to  those 
from  which  the  water  is  not  collected  for  use. 
Stables  may  be  made  very  warm  bj’’  boarding 
up  on  the  inside  and  filling  straw,  hay,  or  leaves 
between  the  inner  and  outer  boarding.  When¬ 
ever  it  is  possible  to  prevent  the  sweep  of  the 
air  under  stable  floors,  by  banking  up  earth 
against  the  sills  of  the  buildings,  do  so,  first 
painting  the  wood-work  with  gas  tar.  Look  to 
the  ditches  and  channels  to  carry  water  away 
from  buildings,  especially  away  from  the  cellar 
walls  of  the  house  or  barns,  so  that  there  may 
he  no  danger,  in  case  of  heavy  rains  and  melt¬ 
ing  snows,  of  the  cellars  getting  full  of  water. 

Butter. — The  very  high  price  of  butter  should 
lead  to  feeding  oil-cake,  carrots  and  other  roots, 
corn  meal,  bran,  pumpkins,  etc.,  which,  judici¬ 
ously  used,  will  increase  the  yield. 

Beeves  fatten  rapidly  at  this  season,  when 
the  cool  air  gives  them  sharp  appetites.  Provide 
salt,  and  fresh  water  abundantly.  Give  them 
the  feeds  of  grain  (ground  and  cooked,  or  soak¬ 
ed)  Avith  entire  regularity.  Keep  fattening  cattle 
warm,  and  never  let  them  worry  for  a  meal,  or 
for  lack  of  regular  attention.  Keep  the  amount 
fed,  of  grain,  roots,  oil-cake,  etc.,  uniform  or 
increase  it  very  gradually.  Occasional  changes 
of  feed,  to  give  a  variety,  are  desirable. 


Calves.— BvovMXe  shelter,  and  feed  so  that  there 
shall  he  no  check  in  their  steady  growth. 

Cows. — Peed  well  so  that  they  may  be  milked 
longer,  and  give  this  year  richer  milk,  than 
usual,  to  take  advantage  of  the  butter  market. 

CTsferiis.— Enough  rain  falls  on  the  roof  of  an 
ordinary  dwelling  to  supply  water  for  all  pur¬ 
poses  of  the  fiimily,  and  a  great  deal  more.  So 
too  the  roof  of  a  common  barn  turns  water 
enough  for  all  the  stock  it  can  cover,  and  all 
other  purposes.  What  is  needed  is  to  have 
cisterns  to  hold  and  store  it.  They  should  be 
out  of  the  reach  of  severe  freezing,  and  con¬ 
veniently  situated.  At  this  season  clean  out 
cisterns,  if  the  water  is  low.  Protect  from  leaves 
Avhich  might  enter  through  the  eave-spouts, 
and  protect  the  pumps  and  pipes  from  freezing. 

Corn. — That  which  is  to  be  stored  should  be 
left  in  the  ear,  and  put  in  narrow  open  cribs,  or 
spread  out  on  a  floor  in  a  dry  loft.  Feed  soft 
corn  before  cold  weather.  Sell  rather  than  store, 
except  for  home  use,  if  good  prices  are  offered. 

Draining. — As  long  as  the  ground  continues 
open,  draining  may  go  on.  We  believe  in  deep 
draining, — 3i  to  4  feet  in  ordinary  cases.  Dig 
for  tiles  as  narrow  as  possible;  it  is  less  work. 

Fences. — Straighten  up  exterior  fences  and 
put  them  in  such  order,  that  there  will  he  little 
to  do  in  the  spring.  Dispense  with  all  interior 
fences  possible.  Before  the  ground  freezes, 
make  an  inspection  to  knoiv  what  fencing  stuff 
it  is  best  to  get  out  next  winter. 

Fruit. — The  great  value  of  fruit  this  3’-ear  will 
lead  to  its  careful  handling.  Never  roll  barrels 
of  apples,  always  lift  them,  and  avoid  pouring 
them  from  a  basket  into  a  barrel,  etc. 

Grain  Fields.  —Guard  against  standing  water, 
or  floods  from  higher  ground,  which  ivill  ivash 
the  soil  away,  or  which  will  bring  on  gravel, 
etc.,  by  a  good  system  of  surface  drains.  Well 
drawn  plow  furrows  are  usuall}’-  sufficient,  but 
on  spots  where  much  ivater  is  likely  to  come, 
pile  stones,  or  set  planks  so  as  to  turn  it  off. 

Hogs. — Cook  all  feed  given  to  fattening  hogs. 
Add  occasionally  a  few  handfuls  of  charcoal 
dust.  Pork  is  better  fatted  rapidly  than  slowly. 

Horses. — See  note  on  horses  in  the  last  Agri¬ 
culturist.  Halter-break  colts,-  coaxing  them 
with  sugar,  never  using  a  harsh  ivord  to  them. 
Yearlings  and  2-year-olds  that  have  run  free  in 
pastures  during  the  summer,  will  need  to  he 
handled  and  halter-broken,  for  convenience,  be¬ 
fore  cold  Aveatlier  cuts  off  the  pasturage. 

Ice  Houses. — See  article  in  the  “  Household.” 

Manure. — Put  all  manurial  materials  into 
compact  heaps  with  judicious  admixtures  of 
muck,  vegetable  matter  or  soil,  bearing  in  mind 
the  principle  not  to  mix  lime  or  unleached  ashes 
with  solid  or  liquid  animal  excrements,  flesh  or 
any  thing  yielding  ammonia  in  its  decomposi¬ 
tion,  except  perhaps  leather.  See  “  Basket,” 


330 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURISl. 


[KoVEMBEil, 


Plowing. — The  drj’  wearier  which  has  prevailed 
during  the  autumn,  will  make  the  ground  very  hard 
to  plow  in  many  places,  but  some  fields  may  be 
much  better  plowed  now  than  next  spring.  See 
article  on  plowing  wet  lands  in  this  number.  The 
benefit  of  the  frost  in  winter,  the  fact  that  the 
teams  are  in  better  condition  for  work,  and  the 
greater  leisure  we  have  now  than  in  spring,  should 
lead  us  to  do  all  the  plowing  possible  this  fall. 

Poultry. — To  have  eggs  in  winter,  the  hens  must 
have  warm,  light  quarters,  well  ventilated,  frequent¬ 
ly  cleaned  out,  always  sweet;  they  must  be  regu¬ 
larly  fed,  never  have  too  much,  never  too  little,  and 
always  fresh-water.  If  all  the  hens  are  induced  to 
lay  in  winter,  there  will  be  few  or  none  to  lay  or  to 
set  in  spring  for  May  and  June  broods. 

Sheep. — Let  the  rams  run  with  ewes  for  March 
lambs,  not  allowing  valuable  animals  to  share  their 
attention  among  too  many. 

RooU. — Dig  and  house,  or  cover  in  pits  before 
hurt  by  frosts.  Carrots  and  beets  are  tenderest. 

Water. — If  possible  secure  running  water  in  the 
stock  yard.  The  past  months  of  drouth  in  many 
sections  have  shown  the  living  springs  and  welis. 

Weeds. — Rake  up  and  destroy  them  all  by  fire. 

Wood. — Dead  wood,  and  that  which  having  been 
blown  down,  or  broken  off  by  the  winds,  cumbers 
the  wood  lot,  may  be  collected  and  used  for  fuel. 

WorR  in  tlie  Orchard  and  Mnrsery. 

The  operations  of  planting  and  putting  the  stock 
in  the  best  condition  for  winter  will  continue  to 
occupy  the  attention  of  the  orchardist  and  nursery¬ 
man.  The  suggestions  of  last  month  will  serve  for 
the  earlj'  part  of  the  present  one.  Planting  may 
be  continued  as  long  as  the  weather  is  suitable.  If 
any  nursery  stock  is  received  which  cannot  be  care¬ 
fully  planted,  heel  it  in,  selecting  a  light  soil  in  a 
place  where  water  will  not  stand.  Be  careful 
that  no  spaces  are  left  among  the  roots,  unfilled  by 
earth.  Trees  carefully  heeled  in,  will  pass  the 
winter  in  perfect  safety  and  be  at  h.and  when  want¬ 
ed  for  spring  planting.  Much  may  be  done  in  pre¬ 
paring  the  soil  for  planting  in  siuIng.  Manuring, 
plowing,  and  even  making  the  holes  for  the  trees 
can  be  continued  while  the  we.ather  permits. 

Cider. — Those  who  are  fortunate  enough  to  have 
apples,  will  find  directions  for  making  good  and 
sound  cider  on  page  804,  last  month. 

Cellars. — Do  not  close  up  the  cellars  where  fruit 
is  stored,  until  there  is  danger  of  freezing.  Ven¬ 
tilation  is  necessary,  and  where  the  construction  of 
the  house  will  allow,  it  is  a  good  plan  to  open  a 
ventilator  into  a  flue  of  the  chimney. 

Grafting. — Seedling  stocks  to  be  root  grafted,  arc 
to  be  taken  up  and  hceled-in  in  the  cellar,  or  where 
they  can  be  taken  out  when  needed.  Cut  cions  after 
the  trees  are  at  rest,  and  bury  in  sand  or  light  soil. 

Insects. — Many  of  these  pests  may  now  be  “  nip¬ 
ped  in  the  bud.”  The  clusters  of  eggs  and  cocoons 
can  now  be  readily  seen  on  the  naked  trees,  and  the 
time  expended  in  searching  for  and  removing  them 
will  be  profitably  employed.  So  with  borers  :  ex¬ 
amine  the  trees  near  the  roots,  and  if  any  borer 
holes  are  visible,  kill  the  grub  with  a  wire  probe. 

Labels.— that  all  are  in  a  condition  to  pass  the 
winter  without  becoming  effaced.  Those  on  newly 
planted  trees  need  looking  to.  The  wire  is  often 
twisted  on  firmly  at  the  nursery,  and  when  growth 
starts,  the  tree  may  become  girdled.  Labels  or 
stakes  to  be  set  in  the  ground,  will  last  for  many 
years  if  the  lower  portion  be  covered  with  gas  tar. 

Manuring. — Bearing  trees  need  annual  manuring 
if  we  would  have  the  best  results.  Spread  a  coat¬ 
ing  of  compost  or  coarse  m.anure  over  the  roots. 
See  last  month  on  page  314.  In  our  best  nurseries 
the  young  stock  is  manured  at  this  season,  a  good 
compost  being  plowed  in  between  the  rows. 

Nursery  TJom.— Give  them  the  final  plowing, 
turning  the  furrows  towards  the  rows.  In  large 
nurseries  the  heading  back  and  shaping  continues 
through  the  winter  in  mild  weather. 

Seedlings. — Cover  the  half  hardy  kinds  with  a  ! 


shelter  of  evergreen  boughs.  See  that  water 
drains  away  from  the  beds.  An  inch  or  two  of 
sand,  or  dry  sandy  earth  thrown  up  around  the 
stems  of  seedling  evergreens  will  help  protect  them. 

Kitclien  Clai’deii. — As  long  as  the 
ground  can  be  worked,  there  is  something  which 
the  gardener  can  do  for  the  benefit  of  future  crops. 
Manuring  and  plowing,  or  trenching  is  all  the  bet¬ 
ter  done  now,  and  drains  may  be  laid.  Stiff  soils 
thrown  into  ridges  will  be  much  ameliorated  by  the 
frosts  of  winter.  Make  surface  drains  to  carry  wa¬ 
ter  away  from  crops  left  out  over  winter.  All  refuse 
should  be  secured  to  add  to  the  manure  heap.  Weeds 
that  have  gone  to  seed,  are  to  be  dried  and  burned. 

Asparagus. — Make  new  beds  as  heretofore  direct¬ 
ed.  Give  old  beds  a  good  covering  of  littery  manure. 

Beets  and  Carrots. — Hard  frosts  injure  these,  and 
they  should  be  out  of  the  way  of  harm.  Store  in  a 
dry  cellar,  and  cover  with  sand  to  prevent  wilting. 

Cabbages. — Take  up  and  protect  by  some  of  the 
methods  given  last  month.  The  Savoys  which  are 
better  for  freezing,  do  very  well  if  heeled-iu  close  to¬ 
gether, and  covered  with  straw  with  boards  laid  over. 

Celery. — That  grown  in  flat  culture,  according  to 
the  article  published  in  July,  page  218,  should  be 
taken  up  and  put  in  trendies,  .as  there  directed.  If 
the  weather  continues  mild,  that  in  trenches  may 
have  another  earthing  up.  We  have,  seen  good  re¬ 
sults  from  plants  grown  on  the  surface  and  blanch¬ 
ed  by  putting  salt  hay  between  them.  This  excludes 
the  lighf^^nd  the  celery  blanches  and  is  kept  clean. 

Cold  Frames. — Keep  open  if  the  weather  is  mild, 
but  close  up  before  night  fall.  Have  shutters  or 
mats,  to  put  over  in  ease  of  a  cold  snap. 

Mice. — These  do  great  mischief  among  seeds  and 
plants.  Use  traps  and  poison.  Be  careful  not  to 
harbor  any  in  the  cold  frames. 

Parsnips  and  Salsify. — The  principal  part  of  the 
crop  may  be  left  in  the  ground,  but  dig  enough  for 
use  while  the  earth  is  frozen  .and  bury  in  the  cellar. 

Rhubarb. — It  is  better  to  make  new  plantings  in 
the  fall,  as  it  starts  so  early  in  spring  that  the  plants 
are  apt  to  get  too  large  before  the  ground  can  be 
worked.  Divide  old  i)lants  with  a  sharp  spade,  so 
that  each  crown  or  bud  will  have  a  portion  of  root 
attached.  Set  4  feet  apart  each  way  in  highly  ma¬ 
nured  soil.  Give  old  beds  a  heavy  manuring. 

Spinach. — Give  a  light  covering  of  litter 

Turnips. — Allow  them  to  grow  until  danger  of 
frost;  gather  and  store  in  pits  or  in  the  cellar. 

Woode7i  Appliances. — All  stakes,  poles,  frames  and 
other  garden  conveniences  of  wood  will  last  much 
longer  if  put  under  cover  for  the  winter. 


Fruit.  Ciarden. — Preparation  of  the  soil, 
planting  hardy  trees  and  shrnbs,  and  caring  for 
tender  ones  will  be  in  order. 

Blackberries. — Set  out  plants  as  heretofore  directed. 
All  will  do  better  if  the  canes  can  be  laid  down  and 
covered  with  earth.  Dig  the  earth  away  from  one 
side  of  the  stool,  and  then  crowd  it  over. 

Currants  and  Ooosebetn-ies. — These  require  similar 
treatment.  Cuttings  or  rooted  plants  may  be  set 
as  directed  on  page  281,  and  282  (September).  A 
good  dressing  of  manure  will  benefit  old  bushes. 

Bnarf  Apples  and  Pears. — Trees  may  be  planted 
if  the  soil  is  well  prepared.  Cut  bask  before  plant¬ 
ing,  more  or  less  severely,  according  to  the  vigor 
of  the  tree.  See  article  in  January  of  this  year  on 
shaping  dwarf  trees. 

Grape  Vi7ies. — Two  years  from  the  bud  is  old 
enough  for  planting  in  a  well  drained  soil,  work¬ 
ed  and  manured  to  the  depth  of  20  inches.  Cut 
the  vine  back  to  within  a  foot  of  the  ground  .at 
planting.  Spread  the  roots  equally,  and  after  they 
are  covered,  make  a  mound  of  e.arth  around  the 
stem  to  protect  the  buds.  Some  notes  upon  prun¬ 
ing  are  given  on  page  345,  and  the  manner  of  treat¬ 
ing  vines  tr.aincd  on  the  arm  and  spur  system  is 
illustrated  in  the  Agricultwist  for  November,  18(54. 


Plants  m.ay  be  set.  All  kinds, 
whether  hardy  or  not,  are  better  if  laid  down  and 
protected  in  winter  by  a  slight  covering  of  earth. 

St7'awberries. — Cover  at  the  approach  of  freezing 
weather.  Straw  is  most  used ;  leaves  will  answer  if 
covered  with  a  little  earth  to  keep  them  in  place. 
Do  not  cover  the  plant  deeply,  the  object  is  to  pro¬ 
tect  the  roots  from  alternate  freezing  and  thawing. 


FSower  ©ardcjn  and  I.<awn. — While 
the  unusually  dry  autumn  has  impaired  the  beauty 
of  the  late  blooming  flowers,  it  h.as  been  favorable 
for  all  work  of  construction,  road  making,  grad¬ 
ing  and  planting  of  deciduous  trees. 

Bulbs. — October  is  the  most  suitable  month  for 
planting  the  Dutch  bulbs,  but  it  may  be  done  early 
this  month.  See  article  on  p.age  316  (October). 
Take  up  Gladiolus,  Tigridias  and  others  pl.anted 
hast  spring,  before  the  ground  freezes.  Dry  them 
in  the  sun  and  st  ore  them  in  a  cool  place  where 
they  will  not  be  injured  by  frost,  or  mice.  Preserve 
the  labels  with  all  named  varieties. 

Chrysanthemums. — The  t.all  growing  ones  will 
need  stakes  to  support  the  weight  of  flowers.  When 
done  flowering,  cut  aw.ay  the  old  stems. 

Dahlias. — Cut  .away  the  stems  as  soon  as  the  frost 
has  killed  the  leaves.  Take  up  the  roots,  without 
breaking  them,  on  a  fine  morning,  and  expose  them 
for  some  hours  to  the  sun.  Label  and  store  them 
in  a  cool  vegetable  cellar.  Some  pack  them  in 
dry  sand.  They  will  keep  in  any  place  that  is 
suitable  for  potatoes  and  other  vegetables. 

Hedges. — Deciduous  hedge  plants  may  be  set. 
Never  make  a  hedge  where  its  spreading  roots 
will  rob  the  soil  devoted  to  other  plants. 

Frames  and  Fts. — These  are  to  be  opened  when¬ 
ever  the  weather  is  mild  enongh,  and  closed  before 
the  air  becomes  chilly.  Protect  in  severe  weather 
by  shutters  or  mats.  Give  water  only  when  the 
earth  looks  dry.  Keep  mice  out,  or  they  will 
destroy  the  plants. 

Lawns. — The  groxind  may  be  prepared  bj'  manur¬ 
ing,  plowing,  leveling,  etc.,  but  it  is  now  too  late 
to  seed  with  much  prospect  of  success.  Old  lawns 
may  have  a  good  dressing  of  compost  and  be  rolled. 

Perennials. — The  hardiest  of  these  will  come  out 
all  the  stronger  in  spring,  if  they  are  covered  by  a 
few  forkfuls  of  long  manure. 

Roses. — If  the  tender  sorts  cannot  be  wintered  in 
a  pit,  or  cellar,  bend  them  down  and  cover  the 
branches  with  a  few  inches  earth. 

Shrubs. — Tender  and  half  hardy  kinds  may  be 
taken  to  the  cellar.  Set  in  boxes  of  earth,  and 
water  sparingly  as  needed. 

TPi'sfarias. — In  places  much  nortli  of  New  York 
it  is  necessary,  in  order  to  secure  a  bloom,  to  lay 
this  down  and  cover  it  with  a  few  inches  of  earth. 
Treat  other  tender  climbers  in  the  same  manner. 


Oreeii  assd  Hot-HToiises.— The  transi¬ 
tion  from  the  open  air  to  the  confinement  of  the 
house  should  be  made  as  gradual  as  possible  by 
giving  ventilation  whenever  the  outside  tempera¬ 
ture  will  allow.  Fire  will  not  be  needed  in  the 
green-house,  unless  the  temperature  is  likely  to  go 
below  4.5'’.  In  the  hot-house  the  thermometer  may 
range  from  60'’  to  7.5°.  Plants  at  rest  suffer 
more  from  au  excess  than  from  hack  of  water. 

Animals. — If  seed  has  not  been  sown  of  those  an¬ 
nuals  desirable  in.. a  green-house,  attend  to  it  at 
once.  Mignionettc,  Nemophilas,  Rhodanthe,  Sweet 
Alyssum,  etc.,  .are  all  useful.  • 

Bulbs. — Pot  a  good  supply  of  Hyacinths,  Tulips, 
Narcissus,  etc.,  for  blooming  in  succession.  Set  the 
pots  under  the  stage  in  the  dark,  until  they  are 
well  filled  with  roots. 

Camellias. — Give  those  to  be  flowered  early  plenty 
of  light  and  more  water  than  those  to  be  retarded. 
Greens. — Secure  a  supply  of  green  suitable  to  use 
in  bouquets,  and  store  in  the  cellar.  Our  native 
Lycopodium  dendroidum  is  one  of  tlie  most  valuable. 

Insects. — Extra  vigilance  in  the  beginning  of  the 
season  will  save  much  future  annoyance.  Punilga- 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


331 


tiou  and  the  syriuge  will  help  to  keep  them  down. 
Pick  olF  the  mealy  bug  when  it  first  appears. 

Propagation  of  Verbenas,  Petunias,  Cuphea,  Pelar¬ 
goniums,  etc.,  may  be  carried  ou,  and  flowering 
plants  be  had  in  a*short  time. 

Window  Plants. — See  article  on  their  care,  p.  349.  , 


Cold  Crrapery. — Close  the  ventilators  in 
damp  weather,  and  keep  the  house  as  dry  as  pos¬ 
sible.  If  any  clusters  of  fruit  remain  upon  the 
vines,  remove  those  berries  which  are  decaying. 


The  Apiary  for  November* — Prepared 
by  M.  Quinby,  by  request. — Very  little  work  about 
the  apiary,  properly  belongs  to  this  month.  Any 
thing  neglected  in  October  may  be  attended  to 
now.  Hives  may  be  repainted,  or  uupainted  ones 
that  have  been  used,  maj'  receive  a  coat,  if  it  is  de¬ 
sirable,  without  serious  injury  to  the  bees.  Some 
light  color  is  preferable.  When  set  in  the  apiary, 
two  or  more  colors  should  alternate  in  the  row, 
that  the  bees  may  recognize  their  own  hive  readily. 
If  straw  hives  for  wintering  bees  have  been  pre¬ 
pared,  the  bees  and  combs,  may  now  be  trans¬ 
ferred  to  them,  as  well  as  later.  A  moderate 
day  is  better  than  one  very  chilly  or  unusually  hot. 
Mice  will  begin  their  depredations  now.  Their 
presence  may  be  known  by  chips,  small  particles 
of  comb,  on  the  floor  of  the  hive.  Shut  them  all 
out  by  strips  of  wire  cloth,  tacked  over  the  en¬ 
trance  in  such  a  way  as  to  leave  just  a  passage  for 
the  bees.  Trap  them  before  the}'  look  up  mischief 
elsewhere.  Hives  standing  out  of  doors  through 
winter,  should  be  protected  in  this  way,  to  prevent 
any  mice  entering  that  may  happen  to  find  them 
during  the  winter.  Make  ready  the  hives  for  an¬ 
other  year,  especially  such  as  are  to  be  painted. 
Each  person  must  decide  for  himself  the  kind  of 
hive  to  be  used.  There  is,  of  course,  a  difference 
in  the  profit  of  different  kinds  of  hives.  Some  are 
at  least  three  times  better  than  others.  I  think 
that  any  one  who  fully  understands  what  he  wants 
in  a  bee  hive,  can  not  afford  to  do  without 
movable  comb  hives  of  some  sort. 


Exhibition  Tnhles  a.t  the  Office  of* 
the  American  Ag'i*icnltiti'i!i«t. 

Below  is  a  list  of  the  articles  which  have  been  present¬ 
ed  for  Exhibition  since  our  last  report : 

Vtsvits.— Gooseberries. — English  American  ;  I.  Skehan, 
Brooklyn,  N.  Y  .  .American  White  ;  R.  Jl.  Dore,  N.  Y. 

City _ Fine  iarge  berries  without  name  ;  John  Beadam, 

Brooklyn,  E.  D. ..  .Currants.— Red  ;  I.  G.  Ctark,  Corn¬ 
wall  Landing,  N.  Y _ Cherry  ;  J.  A.  Brush,  Bmoklyn, 

N.  Y _ Red  and  White,  very  fine  :  Chas.  Mandewirth, 

Flshkill,  N.  Y _ Cherry,  Versailles,  Gloire  de  Sablons, 

White  Grape,  Prince  Albert,  Red  Grape,  Champagne, 
Short  Bunched  Red;  E.  Williams,  Montclair,  N.  J.. . 
Raspberries. — Doolittle's  Black  Cap;  Wm.  Parry,  Cin- 

naminson,  N.  J Seedling— one  stem  15  feet  long  and 

well  fruited;  A.  M.  Ha'sted,  Rye,  N.  Y ..  ..Blackberries. 
— Wilson's  Early  (July  4th) ;  J.  S.  Collins,  Moorestown, 

N.  J  ...New  Rochelle;  T.  Tappan.  Roslyn,  L.  I _ _ 

Kittatinny ;  E.  Williams,  Mont  Clair,  N.  J _ Straw¬ 

berries. — Agriculturist,  in  fruit ;  J.  H.  Brinkerhoff,  English 
Neighborhooil,  N.  J  — Double  ;  L.  S.  Wood,  Brooklyn, 

N.  Y Nectarines. — Red  Roman,  large  and  fine;  J. 

Bailey,  gardener  to  J.  McKay,  Esq.,  Jersey  City,  N.  J. . . 

Figs. — Oporto  ;  Dr.  Drake,  East  Bro:idway,  N.  Y.  C . 

Purple  ;  Wra.  Baldwin,  Clinton,  N.  J  —  Grapes. — Blight¬ 
ed  toncords  ;  Thus.  Oliver,  Fordharn,  N.  Y _ Seed¬ 
ling;  A.  B.  Eckerson,  Tappan.  N.  Y _ Clinton  and 

M;ixatawney  ;  Gustavus  Hein.<,  Dow  nington,  Pa _ Ex¬ 
celsior;  Andrew  Child,  Newmarket,  N.  J _ Clinton, 

Adirondac  and  Seedling  ;  Geo.  H.  Hite,  Morrisania,  N. 

Y  _ Isabella;  Thos.  Harris,  Williamsburgh,  N.  Y., 

John  P.  Kiessell,  Hudson  City,  N.  J.,  Charles  Starr, 
Coxsackie,  N.  Y.,  and  Alexander  Rogers,  Starville,  N. 

Y  _ Concord;  Baily  &  Pearce,  Fishkill,  N.  Y.,  an3 

Mr.  Staples,  Newburgh,  N.  Y _ Allen’s  Hybrid;  A. 

Scarborough,  Payson,  111 _ Clinton,  Diana  and  Seed¬ 
ling;  Hugh  Capner,  Fleming,  N.  J _ Peaches. — Pine 

Crawford  ;  Benj.  Archer,  Scarsdale,  N.  Y _ Seedling, 

large;  Mr.  Manning,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y .. .  Maiden’s  Blush, 

Seedling;  Anna  L.  Abbott,  Boston,  Mass _ Seedling  ; 

Marshall  Bryan,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y - Twin  Growth  ;  E. 

S.  Berrian,  New  York Apples. — Collection  from  Ernst 

&  Bro.,  South  Amboy,  N.  J  —  Seedling ;  T.  W.  Suffern, 
Sufferns,  N.  Y . Gloria  Mundi,  2314  oz;  Wm.  Luf- 


brows,  Monmouth  Co.,  N.  J - Baldwin,  large;  John 

Smith,  OsEoming,  N.  Y _ Gloria  Mundi.  24  oz.;  Mr.  Ir¬ 

win,  Weschester,  N.  Y.,  also  from  Julian  Allen,  Brook¬ 
lyn,  N.  Y.,  and  Robert  French,  Westfield,  N.  J - 

Pears. — A  collection  from  Ernst  &  Bro.,  South  Amboy, 
N.  J _ Vergalieu,  to  show  bad  cracking  ;  S.  Jaqua,  Pat¬ 

erson,  N.  J — Rostiezer  &  Tyson;  T.  B.  Merrick, 

Orange,  N.  J _ .Samples  from  cutting  from  old  Stuy- 

vesant  tree;  Mr.  Bacon,  Roxbury,  Mass  —  Seckel  and 

Bartlett;  B.F.Sealy,  South  Yonkers,  N.  Y - Rapelyea; 

I.  H.  Rapelyea,  Astoria,  N.  Y _ Duchesse,  2414  oz.;  P. 

L.  Pearce,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y _ Louise  Bonne  de  Jersey  ; 

Hugh  Capner,  Flemington,  N.  J _ Beurre  d’Amalis  ;  J. 

C.  F.  Smith,  Nyack,  N.  Y - Abbott;  John  Crane, 

Union,  N.  Y _ Seckel ;  Dr.  Duffenferfer,  New  Holland, 

Pa _ 4  Duchesse,  vi'eight4  lbs.,  3  oz.;  Samuel  Vernon,- 

Brooklyn,  N.  Y _ Duchesse  and  Beurre  Diel,  Gabriel 

Marc,  Astoria,  N.  Y _ Rutter  ;  Gustavus  Heins,  Down- 

ington.  Pa _ Sheldon,  Louis  Bonne  de  Jersey,  Beurre 

Hardy,  Beurre  Bose,  Seckel  and  Duchesse;  Ellwanger 
and  Barry,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

Flowers. — Roses,  a  fine  collection  ;  Mr.  Burgess,  As¬ 
toria,  L.  I.  ..Lilium  auratum  ;  J.  Dingwall,  Albany,  N. 
Y.,  I.  Buchanan,  Astoria,  L.  I.,  Brill  &  Kumerle,  New¬ 
ark,  N.  J.,  Wm.  Chorlton,  Factoryville,  Staten  Island, 

James  Hogg,  Yorkville,  N.  Y _ Clematis  bicolor  ;  Wm. 

S.  Carpenter,  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y  —  Wax  Plant, 

Hoya  carnosa;  C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum _ 

Pliloxes,  seven  distinct  seedlings  ;  I.  Buchanan,  Astoria, 

L.  I. _ Dahlias;  Seedling  Pompone,  “Empress  of 

Mexico',’’  H.  F.  Krause,  N.  Y.  City _ A  collection;  C. 

S.  Pell,  N.  Y.  Orphan  Asylum Twin  Dahlia;  D.  H. 

Knapp,  N.  Y.  City Japan  Lilies;  C.  S.  Pell,  N.  Y. 

Orphan  Asylum _ Bouquets  and  Cut-flowers  ;  T.  Cav- 

anach,  Brooklyn,  N.  Y. ;  and  from  Keyset’s  Island, 

South  Norwalk,  Conn _ Splendid  Coxcomb;  Henry 

Oothout,  Stamford,  Conn _ Cut  Flowers;  jtliss  M.  A. 

Cortelyou,  Staten  Island. 

Vegetables.— Turnips,  sowed  last  week  in  May,  very 
fine;  W.  Van  Benthuysen,  Eatontown,  N.  J _ Cucum¬ 

bers,  (twin)  ;  P.  Vanderhoff,  Long  Branch,  N.  J. ;  (trip¬ 
let) ;  A.  W.  Boyce,  Staten  Island  ;  Very  large  specimen; 

D.  Winant,  Staten  Island _ Beet  ;  Large  Bassano  ;  E. 

P.  Tyson,  Southfield,  Staten  Island _ Cabbage,  very 

large  Drumhead  ;  R.  Crisswell,  L.  I _ Corn  ;  One  Ear,  | 

8  cobs  ;  J.  B.  Stanton,  Hudson  City,  N  J.  ;  Japanese, 
with  variegated  foliage  ;  Jas.  Hogg,  Yorkville,  N.  Y..  . 
Custard  Marrow,  new,  from  Japan  ;  Peter  Henderson, 

Jersey  City,  N.  J _ Squash;  Sumner  Crook-neck,  twin  ; 

Wm.  S.  Carpenter,  Rye,  N.  Y _ Sweet  Potato  plant, 

curious  growth;  J.  H.  Green,  Jr.,  Morrisania,  N.  Y. 
Purple  Egg  Plants  and  Wethersfield  Red  Onions ;  John 
H.  Roche,  Mead’s  Basin,  N.  J Turnip  Beet,  15)^  lbs.; 

E.  P.  Tyson,  Southfield,  N.  Y Wethersfield  Red  On¬ 

ions  ;  George  Such,  South  Amboy,  N.  J  ...Evergreen 
and  Buckram  Corn  ;  J.  C.  Demarest,  Hackensack,  N.  J. 
_ Cucumber,  “Mills  Jewess”;  Wm.  Chorlton,  Facto¬ 
ryville,  N.  Y _ Cucumber  in  bottle;  Mrs.  Wheeler, 

Orange,  N.  J _ Double  Cucumber  ;  Valentine  Haber, 

Jersey  City,  N.  J - Purple  Egg  Plant,  7)4  lbs.;  George 

H.  Hite,  Morrisania,  N.  Y _ Purple  Egg  Plant,  10  lbs.; 

A.  M.  Allerton,  Somerville,  N.  Y..  .Wethersfield  Red 
and  D;invers  Yellow  Onions;  Wm.  Chorlton,  Factory¬ 
ville,  N.  Y _ Cucumber  ;  I.  L.  Miller,  Richmond,  N.  Y 

- White  Cucumber  ;  E.  Sanderson,  Mott  Haven,  N?Y. 

....5  Red  Globe  Onions,  5)4  lbs.;  F.  P.  Benedict,  Key- 

port,  N.  J - Cream  Pumpkin,  93  lbs.;  Alfred  J.  Hodson 

Brooklyn,  N.  Y  ..California  Gourd,  5  feet  2  in.  long; 

C.  Pabor,  Harlem,  N.  Y _ Sweet  Potato,  2  lbs.,  II  oz.; 

Rev.  E.  W.  Adams,  Staten  Island  Sweet  Potatoes, 

fine;  J.  Hayne,  Bloomfield,  N.  J _ Fine  ears  20-rowed 

Corn  ;  David  Walker,  New  Durham,  N.  J _ Squash  9X}4 

lbs.;  T.  Hardy  ..Hubbard  Squash;  D.  V.  Brower,  Eng¬ 
lish  Neighborhood,  N.  J  ...Fancy  Gourds  ;  A.  F.  Stew¬ 
art,  Hudson  City.  N.  J _ Purple  Egg  Plant,  7  lbs.;  G. 

Huyler,  Tenefly,  N.  J _ Peruvian  Corn  Stalks,  14  feet 

high  ;  B.  C.  Townsend,  Bay  Ridge,  N  Y _ Flat  Dutch 

Cabbage,  22X  lbs.;  R  Crisswell,  L.  I _ Millet;  Mrs_ 

Schureman,  Hudson  City,  N.  J _ 6  Large  Egg  Plants  ; 

Louis  Bullinger,  Egg  Harbor  City,  N.  J _ Tomatoes. 

Fejee.  Plum,  and  Grape;  Rev,  C.  J.  Jones,  Staten  Is¬ 
land,  N.  Y _ Mammoth,  3>4  lbs.;  John  Gardiner,  New 

Brighton,  N.  Y.,  L.  A.  Berta,  Tremont,  N.  Y,,  Thomas 
France,  Claremont,  N.  Y.,  Mr.  Voltz,  English  Neighbor¬ 
hood,  N.  J.,  and  Wm.  Mills,  Flatbush,  N.  Y _ Fejee  ; 

S.  W.  Miller,  Elizabeth,  N.  J _ Yellow;  F.  H.  Piaget, 

Greenwich,  N.  Y Potatoes. — Garnet  Chili;  C.  W. 

Dunlap,  Jr.,  English  Neighborhood,  N.  J.,  and  James 
Holbrow,  Walden,  N.  Y.  ..Mercers  ;  E.  I.  Keeley,  Nor¬ 
wood.  N.  J.,  and  J.  Hayne,  Bloomfield,  N.  J _ Jackson 

While,  Prince  Albert  arrd  Peachblow  ;  D.  V.  Brower, 
English  Neighborhood,  N.  J _ White  Peach  Blows  ; 

D.  J.  Youngs,  Oyster  Bay,  N.  Y. 

Miscellaneous. — Brahma  Pootra  Eggs.  ;6  weighing 

1J6  lbs.;  G.  B.  Davis,  Tompkinsville,  Staten  Island _ 

Black  Spanish  Egg,  weight,  4  ozs.;  D.  Pierson,  Clinton 
Hill,  N.  J.. .  .Seed  Pod  of  Cassia  Braziliana  ;  Dr.  White, 


Panama,  N.  G - Silk  and  Cocoons  of  Chinese  Silk 

worm;  Ezra  Ellis,  Oidhain,  N.  J . . .  Natural  Ham,  be¬ 
ing  a  very  curious  yellow  pine  knot,  in  form  and  color 
like  a  small  h;im  ;  I.  Wild,  N.  Y.  City  . .  Gold-bearing 
Quartz  ;  E.  Lockwood,  Nova  Scotia.. .Cinnabar  (Quick¬ 
silver  Ore),  New  Almaden  Mine,  Cal.;  J.  Rogers _ A 

large  Bat;  Patrolman  No.  2.5,  1st  Precinct,  N.  Y..Case 
Fruit  Jars  ;  Johnson,  Patentee,  81h-Avenue,  N.  Y.  City. 

- Marine  Shells  ;  Capt.  Elias  Smith,  Raleigh,  N.-^C _ 

Double  Egg  ;  H.  F.  Doran,  N.Y.  City ....  Chestnuts  ;  Mrs. 
C.  E.  Wheeler,  Orange,  N.  J  ...Cotton  in  bloom  ;  W. 

Lord,  Morrisania,  N.  Y - Curious  and  Small  Eggs; 

Mrs.  G.  Ostrander,  Centreville,  N.  Y _ Black  Spanish 

Fowls’  Eggs;  B.  Murray,  Jr.,  Englewood,  N.  J. 

- — »  I  — 

Thirteen  foa-  Twelve. 

To  every  new  Subscriber  for  1866  {Volume  25,)  received 
in  November,  we  will  send  the  Agriculturist  for  De¬ 
cember  free  of  charge.  This  will  give  the  paper  Thir¬ 
teen  months  for  the  price  of  Twelve. 

Note,  that  this  offer  is  only  for  November^  except  for 
names  from  the  Pacific  Coast,  and  other  points  too  distant 
to  respond  by  the  close  of  the  month.  N.  B.—  The  above 
applies  to  all  subscribers,  whether  singly  or  in  clubs,  in 
premium  lists,  from  Agricultural  Societies,  etc. 

- - - - - - 

Esicellent  Preminms. 

Open  to  Kvei'ybody— A  First-rate  Opportu¬ 
nity  to  secure  Good  and  Desirable  Things 
without  Fxpense,  and  benefit  others  at 
tlxe  same  time. — Every  tiling  ofifered  is 
new,  and  of  the  best  quality  and  make. 

—Good  Books,  Good  Seeds,  Plants,  and 
Grape  "Vines;  Good  Fruit  Trees, 
Shrubs,  and  other  Nursery  Stock ; 

Good  Household  and  Fai'm  Im¬ 
plements  ;  Good  Pianos,  lilelo- 
deons,  etc.,  etc.— Something  to 
meet  the  wants  of  Evex'ybody, 
and  Everybody  is  invited 
to  secure  one  or  more 
of  these  Premiums. 


In  the  Table  (next  page)  we  offer  a  fine  list  of  Premium 
articles  to  those  who  will  take  the  trouble  to  collect  and 
forward  clubs  of  subscribers.  We  know  every  article  is 
good  and  desirable.  Thousands  of  persons  may  each  ob¬ 
tain  one  or  more  of  these  premiums  with  very  little 
trouble.  Men  and  Woman,  Post-masters  and  their  Clerks, 
Agricultural  Societies,  Soldiers,  Clergymen,  Teachers. 
Widows,  Farmers,  Mechanics,  Storekeepers,  Boys,  Girls, 
indeed  almost  every  class  may  each  gather  names  of  sub¬ 
scribers  enough  to  secure  some  one  or  more  of  the  desi¬ 
rable  articles  in  the  list  of  things  offered.  The  supply  of 
each  of  these  premium  articles  is  abundant  enough  to 
give  all  who  want  them  a  chance,  and  plenty  of  time  will 
be  given  to  fill  up  a  list,  though  NO'W  is  the  best  time  to 
begin  making  up  a  club,  as  extra  copies  are  offered  to 

b 

every  subscriber  received  tins  month,  as  noted  above. 

Tlie  Table  on  next  page  gives  only  the  list  of  ar¬ 
ticles,  their  value,  and  the  number  of  subscribers  requir¬ 
ed  for  each,  at  the  regular  subscription  rate  $1.50  a  year, 
or  at  the  lowest  club  rate  when  large  clubs  are  made  up 
($I  a  year).  But  let  every  one  thinking  of  securing  a 
premium, 

SEND  FOR  OUR  DESCRIPTION  LIST, 
WHICH  GIVES  FULL  PARTICULARS  ABOUT 
EACH  PREMIUM,  ETC.  IT  WILL  BE  FURNISH¬ 
ED  FREE  TO  ALL  APPLICANTS. 

15^^  For  brief  descriptions,  see  October  Agriculturist, 
page  300.  We  have  not  room  to  repeat  them. 

As  fast  as  any  subscriptions  are  obtained,  send  them 
along,  that  the  subscribers  may  begin  to  reaeive  the 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[November, 


paper  ;  and  when  all  the  names  that  can  he  obtained  al'e 
forwarded,  select  the  premium  desired,  and  it  will  be 
promptly  furnislied.  To  save  mistakes  and  the  keeping 


BOOKS  FOR  FARMERS  and  OTHERS. 

[Any  of  the  following  books  can  be  obtained  at  the  Of- 


Commereial  Matters — Market  Prices. 


The  following  condensed,  comprehensive  tables,  care- 


of  money  accounts,  send  with  each  name,  or  list  of  names, 
the  exact  subscription  money  ;  or  send  at  first  the  full 
amount  for  a  club,  and  receive  the  premium,  and  then 
forward  the  names  as  obtained. 

To  avoid  errors  and  save  immense  labor  in  looking  over 
our  books,  it  is  absolutely  essential  that  every  name  design¬ 
ed  for  a  premium  list  be  so  marked  when  sent  in.  (Such 
names  are  credited  to  the  sender  in  a  sep.arale  book,  as 
fast  as  received— ready  for  instant  reference.) 


Old  and  new  subscribers  will  count  in  premium  lists, 
but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
Such  that  the  premiums  are 'in  part  offered.  Premium 
clubs  need  not  all  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  course 
only  one  premium  will  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber. 

The  extra  copy,  usually  offered  to  clubs  of  10  or  20, 
will  not  be  furnished  when  a  premium  is  given. 


Table  of  I*rei!iiiilms  and  Terms, 

For  Volume  35.  §3. 

Open  to  all— IVo  Competition. 

Names  of  Premium  Articles.  1 _ 

1— Goon  Books— terms  beloto* . 

1  H— Garden  Seeds  for  a  Family  (40  kinds)... $5 
:i— Flower  Seeds  for  a  Family  (100  kinds).  $5 
4._Kursery  Stock  (any  Kinds  desired) . $20 

5—  Iona  Grape  Vines  (V4  of  No.  1)  . $18 

6—  Concord  Grape  Vines  (100  of  No.l)  ..$12 

7 —  Strawberry  Plants  (100  of  good  Kinds). $,"> 

8—  Japan  Lilies  (13  Bulbs) . $6 

9—  Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening . $6 

10—  American  Cyclopedia  . $S0 

11—  MitclieU’s  NewGener.al  Atlas . $10 

13— W orcester’s  Great  Illustrat’d  Dictionar3’$12 

13—  Any  back  Volume  |1 

14—  Any  Two  back  Volumes  do 


1.5— Any  Three  do 
10— Any  Four  do 

17—  Any  Five  do 

18—  Any  Six  do 

19—  Any  Seven  do 

20—  Any  Eight  do 


do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 


fe;  $15 


21— V0I3.  NVI  to  XXIV  ... 

22—  Stump  Speech— Steel  Plate  Colored — $10  I 

23—  The  County  Election  do  do . $10  ( 

24 —  Halt  in  the  Woods  do  do .  $10  ( 

2.5— Morton’s  best  No.  5  Gold  Pen,  Silver  Case$4  1 
2G— Case  of  Drawing  Instruments .  $8  1 

27—  Ladj'’s  Rosewood  Writing  Desk . $12  ( 

28—  Gentleman’s  do  do  do . $14  ( 

29—  Best  Family  Clothes-Wringer . . $10  ( 

30—  Dotv-'s  Washing  Machine . $12  ( 

31—  Tea  Set  (Best  Silver  Plated) . $50  ( 

32—  Sewing  Machine,  (Wlieeler  &  Wilson).. $55  ( 

33—  Sewing  Macliine  (Wilcox  &  Gibbs) . $.55  ( 

34 —  Sewing  Machine  for  Tailor  Work . $00  1 

35—  Melodeon  (Best  Four  Octave) .  $07  I 

3(1— Melodeon  (Best  Five  Oct.ave) . $112  ( 

37—  Piano.  f-Octave  (Stein way  &  Sons) ....  $000  ( 

38—  Barometer  (Woodrulf’s  ^^ercm■ial) _  $12  I 

39—  Barometer  (Woodruff’s  Mercurial) _  $18  ( 

40—  Tile  Aquarius,  or  Water  Thrower . $11  I 

41 —  Buckeye  Mowing  Machine  No.  2 . $125  I 

42—  Allen’s  Patent  Cj’liuder  Plow . $20  i 


ra 
I  ”=3 


10 

13 

15 

17 
19 
21 
23 

18 
18 
18 
12 

16 
19 
21 
18 
19 
67 
70 
70 
75 
80 

140 

500 

19 

22 

19 

150 

31 


■wizj 

83 


35 

35 

100 

92 

65 

35 

33 

40 

3.38 

60 

65 

20 

26 

32 

38 

44 
50 

57 

64 
72 
60 
60 
60 
32 

45 

65 
70 

58 
05 

240 

270 

270 

290 

300 

450 

1500 

70 

95 

05 

480 

100 


charge  is  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  the 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Premiums,  1,2,  3,7,  8, 
and  13  to  26,  are  delivered  to  any  part  of  the  United 
States  and  Territories,  free  of  all  charges.  The  other 
articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  after  leaving 
the  manufactory  of  each.  Every  article  offered  is 

7iew  atid  of  the  very  best  manufacture. 

•»  Premium  1.— Good  Books.— Any  person  sending  a 
club  of  25  or  more  subscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  list 
on  tiiis  page,  to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  each  subscriber 
sent  at  $1 :  or  to  tlie  amount  of  30  cents  for  etich  name  sent 
at  tlie  (ten)  club  price  of  $1.20  eacli:  or  to  tlie  amount  of  60 
cents  for  each  name  at  $1  50.  This  offer  extends  otily  to  clubs 
of  25  or  more  names.  Tiie  Books  will  be  sent  by  mail  or 
express,  prepaid  by  ws.— Tins  is  a  good  opportunity  for  tlio 
farmers  of  a  neighborliood  to  unite  tlieir  efforts  and  get  up 
an  Agricultural  Library  for  general  use.  Several  Farmers’ 
Clubs  liave  done  so. 

JOSr  For  Description  of  the  other  Fre- 
iniums,  see  October  number,  and  especially  a  large, 
full  Descriptive  Sheet,  wiiich  will  be  forwarded  free  to 
anyone  desiring  to  canvass  for  a  premium. 


Specimen  N timbers  of  the  Agriculturist,  Cards, 
and  Showbills,  as  may  be  needed,  will  be  supplied  to 
Canvassers.  These  should  be  used  carefully  and  eco¬ 
nomically,  as  each  copy  of  the  paper  is  costly,  besides 
the  postage  (2c.),  which  must  be  pre-paid  here.  A  large 
neat  Showbill  will  be  issued  soon. 


ChUBS  can  at  any  time  be  increased,  by  remitting 
for  each  addition  the  price  paid  by  the  original  members, 
if  the  subscriptions  all  date  at  the  same  starting  point. 
The  back  numbers  will  of  course  be  sent  to  added  names. 


flee  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  prices  named,  or  they  will  bo 
forwarded  by  mail,  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  the  price.  These 
prices  are  positively  good  only  to  December  1st.] 


fully  prepared  specially  for  American  Agriculturist, 
show  at  a  glance  the  transactions  for  a  month,  ending  Oc¬ 
tober  16th,  with  other  interesting  comparative  figures. 


Allen’s  (L.  F.)  Rural  Architecture . $150 

Allen's  (R.  L.)  American  Farm  Book .  1  50 

Allen's  Disetises  of  Domestic  Animals. .  .  .  1  00 

American  Bird  Fancier .  go 

American  Rose  Culturist . 30 

American  Weeds  and  useful  Plants...  .  1  75 

Art  of  Saw  Filing _ (Holly). .  .  75 

Barry’s  Fruit  Garden .  1  7.5 

Beecher’s  (Henry  Ward)  Fruit,  Flowers  and  Farming. .  1  25 

Bement's  Poulterer’s  Companion .  2  00 

Bement’s  Rabbit  Fancier .  30 

Blake's  Farmer’s  Encyclopedia .  1  50 

Boussingault’s  Rural  Economy .  1  60 

Brldgeihan’s  Fruit  Cultivator’s  Manual. . . . .  75 

Bridgeman’s  Young  Gardener’s  Assistant .  2  00 

Bridgeman’s  Kitchen  Garden  Instructor .  75 

Bridgeman’s  Florist's  Guide . 75 

Brandt’s  Age  of  Horses  (Englisli  and  German) .  50 

Breck’s  Book  of  Flowers .  1  50 

Browne’s  Field  Book  of  Manures .  1  50 

Buist’s  Flower  garden  Directory . .  1  50 

Buist’s  Family  Kitclien  Gardener .  1  00 

Burr’s  Vegetables  of  America .  5  00 

Carpenters  and  J oiners’  Hand  Book. .  (Holly) .  75 

Chorlton’s  Grape-Grower's  Guide .  75 

Cobbett's  American  Gardener . 75 

Cole’s  (S.  W.)  American  Fruit  Book .  60 

Cole’s  Veterinarian .  75 

Colman’s  Agriculture .  5  00 

Copeland’s  Country  Life .  4  50 

Cottage  Bee-Keeper .  75 

Cotton  Planters’  Manual  (Turner) .  1  50 

Dadd’s  .Modern  Horse  Doctor .  1  50 

Dadd’s  (Geo.  H.)  American  Cattle  Doctor .  1  50 

Dana’s  Muck  Manual .  1  25 

Dog  and  Gun  (Hooper’s) .  30 

Downing's  Landscape  Gardening  (now  Edition) .  6  50 

Dorvning’s  Cottage  Residences .  2  50 

Downing’s  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees  of  America .  3  00 

Eastwood  on  Cranberry .  75 

Elliott’s  Western  Fruit  Grower’s  Guide .  1  50 

Employment  of  Women— By  Virginia  Penny .  1  .50 

Flax  Culture .  50 

French’s  Farm  Drainage .  1  50 

Field’s  (Tliomas  W.)  Pear  Culture .  1  25 

Fish  Culture .  125 

Flint  (Cliiu'lcs  L.)  on  Grasses .  2  00 

Flint’s  Milcli  Corvs  and  Dairy  Farming .  2  00 

Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist .  1  50 

Fuller’s  Strawberry  Culturist .  20 

Goodale’s  Principles  of  Breeding .  1  25 

Gray’s  Manual  of  Botany  and  Lessons  in  one  Vol .  4  00 

Gray’s  How  Plants  Grow .  1  25 

Guenon  on  Milch  Cows .  75 

Hall's  (Miss)  American  Cookery .  1  25 

Harasztliy  (jrape  Culture,  &c .  5  Oo 

Harris’  Insects  In.iurions  to  Vegetation,  plain .  3  50 

Harris’  Insects  Injurious  to  Vegetation,  colored  plates.  4  50 

Herbert’s  Hints  to  llorsekeepers . . .  1  75 

Hints  to  Riflemen,  by  Cleveland .  1  50 

Holly’s  Country  Seats .  4  50 

Hop  Culture .  40 

How  to  Buy  a  Farm  and  Where  to  Find  One .  1  75 

Insect  Enemies  of  Fruit  Trees,  (Trimlile) .  8  00 

Jaques’  Fruits  and  Fruit  Trees .  60 

Jennings  on  Cattle .  2  00 

Jenning's  on  the  Horse  and  ills  Diseases .  2  00 

Johnston’s  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  75 

•Johnston’s  Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry .  1  25 

Kemp’s  Landscape  Gardening .  2  00 

Langsu'oth  on  the  Honey  Bee  .  2  00 

Loudon’s  (_Downing’s)  Ladies’ Flower  Garden .  2  03 

Leuchar's  Howto  Build  Hot-houses .  1  50 

Lieltig's  Familiar  Letters  on  Chemistry .  50 

Liebig’s  Modern  Agriculture .  1  25 

Liebig’s  Natural  Laws  of  Husbandry .  1  50 

Linsley’s  (D.  C.)  ^forgan  Horses . .  i  50 

Manual  of  Agriculture  by  G.  Emerson  and  C.  L.  Flint  1  50 

ilayliew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Doctor  .  3  60 

Mavhew’s  Illustrated  Horse  Management . .  3  .50 

McMalion’s  American  Gardener .  2  50 

Miles  on  the  Horse’s  foot .  75 

Morrell’s  American  Sliepherd .  1  75 

Mv  Farm  of  Edgewood . .  2  00 

National  Almanac  and  Annual  Record .  1  50 

Neill’s  Practical  Gardener _ (Pardee) .  1  50 

Norton’s  Scientific  Agriculture .  75 

Olcott’s  Sorgho  and  Imphee .  1  25 

Onion  Culture  .  20 

Our  Farm  of  Four  Acres  (hound)  60c . (paper)  30 

Pardee  on  Strawberry  Culture .  75 

Parsons  on  the  Rose .  1  50 

Pltantom  Bouquet,  or  Skeleton  Leaves .  2  00 

Pedder’s  Land  Measurer .  60 

Qninby’s  Mysteries  of  Bee  keeping .  1  75 

Rabhit  Fancier .  30 

KandalTs  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  50 

Randall’s  Fine  Wool  Sheep  Husbandry .  1  00 

Rand’s  Flowers  for  Parlor  and  Garden .  3  00 

Richardson  on  the  Dog .  30 

Rivers’  Orcliard  Houses .  -50 

Rural  Afl'airs _ (hound) _ 3Vols _ each .  1  50 

Saunder’s  Domestic  Poultry _ paper,  30  cts.  ..bound. .  60 

Saxton’s  Farmers’  Library,  .set  of  3  Vols.  .morocco .  9  50 

Saxton's  Farmers’  Library.. set  of  SVols.. cloth .  8  50 

Schenck’s  Gardener’s  Te.xt  Book . 75 

Sheplierd’s  own  Book .  2  25 

Skillful  Housewife  .  75 

Smitli’s  Landscape  Gardening .  1  50 

Spencer's  Education  of  Children .  1  50 

Stewart's  (Jolin)  Sial)le  Book .  .  1  30 

'Templeton’s  Meclianic’s  Pocket  Companion .  1  50 

Ten  Acres  Enougli .  1  50 

Thaer’s  (A.  D.)  Principles  of  Agriculture .  2  .50 

Thomas'  Fruit  Culturist .  1  60 

Thompson's  F'ood  of  Animals .  1  00 

Tobacco  Culture  .  ^ 

Todd’s  (S.  E.)  Young  Farmer’s  Manual .  1  30 

Tuclcer's  Register  Rural  Affairs .  30 

Vaux’s  Villas  and  Cotta,ges .  3  00 

Villas  and  Farm  Cottages,  (Cleavcland  and  Backus)...  S  00 

Walden’s  Complete  Soil  Culture .  1  jO 

W'arder's  Hedges  and  Evergreens .  .  J  ;>0 

Waring’s  Elenients  of  Agriculture .  1  00 

Watson’s  American  Hon'ie  Garden.  ..  .  2  00 

Wax  Flowers  (Art  of  Making).  .  2  00 

Wetherill  on  the  Manufacture  of  Vinegar .  1  50 

Wheat  Plant  (Joim  Klinpart’s) . .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Country  Homes .  1  50 

Woodward’s  Graperies . . . .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Spooner  on  tlie  Horse .  1  50 

Youatt  and  Afartin  on  Cattle .  1  50 

Youatt  on  the  Hog .  1  00 

Youatt  on  Sheep .  J  00 

Toumans’  Household  Science . .  2  00 

Youmans’  New  Chemistry .  »  00 


1.  TRANSACTIONS  AT  TUK  NEW- YORK  MARKETS. 

Receipts.  Flour.  V7ieat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley.  Oats. 
24days(/a'.9m'th.357,000  411,000  2,770,000  64,000  636,000  957,000 

24  days  last  m’tli.206,000  1,275,000  2,373,000  109,000  167,000  764,000 

Sales.  Four.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley. 

24  days  ffiis  month,  367,000  1.789,000  1,981,000  63,000  383,000 

24  days  last  montli,  351,000  2,052,000  2,318,000  97,000  5,500 

3.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts.  Four.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley.  Oats. 

2-1  days  1865 . 337.000  441,000  2,779,000  64,000636,000  957,000 

26  days  1864 . 339.000  1,313,000  1,190,000  187,000  321,000  1,9'23,000 

Sales.  Four.  Wheat.  Corn.  Bye.  Barley. 

24  days  1865  .  367,000  1,789,000  1,981,000  63,000  383,000 

26  days  1864  .  278,000  1,365,000  1,437,500  94,000  '118,000 

3 .  Exports  from  New-  York,  January  1  to  Oct.  14  : 

Flour,  Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Oats. 

1865 .  1,085,399  1,778,863  2,209,900  170,694  &"..7S4 

1864  . 1,638,945  11,552,792  799,597  453  37,795 

1863 .  2,876,765  12.982,582  7,414,704  415,249  117,599 

1862 .  2,440,328  19,097,373  9,228,402  1,016,017  133,631 

4.  Receipts  of  Breadstuff's  at  the  head  of  tide  water  at 
Albany,  from  the.  Commencement  of  Navigation  to  Oct.  7. 

Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

1865.. .. 519.000  5-945,000  10.276,200  548,1001,049,700  6,714,900 

1864.. .. 713.600  12,038,200  7,866,400  271,700  589,000  6,493,900 

1863.. .. 891.900  13,017,900  18,985,500  801,000  686,700  5,908,500 

Owing  partly  to  speculation,  and  partly  to  a  heavy 
demand  for  duties  on  imported  goods,  gold  has  been 
higher  the  past  month,  at  one  time  touching  149.  To-day 
it  is  liiX  against  142X  a  month  ago.  As  noted  in  the 
table  below,  the  prices  of  breadstuffs  are  higher,  affected 
somewliat  by  the  gold  market,  but  more  by  an  active 
speculation  at  Chicago,  amounting  to  gambling.  Dealers 
lliere  liave  even  purchased  largely  in  this  market,  and 
prices  have  been  carried  up  beyond  the  reach  of  buyers 
for  foreign  markets,  so  much  so  as  lo  almost  stop  export, 
while  the  Western  speculation  has  prevented  the  usual 
supplies  from  coming  forward.  It  can  hardly  be  olher- 
vtise  than  that  there  will  be  trouble  resulting  from  these 
gambling  operations,  and  we  shall  not  be  surprised  to  see 

an  early  breakdown  in  prices . Corn,  Rye,  Barley, 

and  Oats  are  quiet  and  prices  weaker . Cotton  has 

been  in  brisk  demand,  at  rapidly  advancing  prices,  under 
the  foreign  news.  The  receipts  continue  large _ Provi¬ 

sions  have  been  in  more  demand  at  very  irregular  prices. 

- Hog  products  closed  heavily  ;  Beef,  Butter,  and 

Cheese,  quite  firmly  —  Wool  has  been  in  good  reque.st 
at  steady  prices,  but  closed  tamely  ...Hay,  Hops,  and 
Tobacco  in  fair  request  at  uniform  quotations. 

Current  Wholesale  Prices. 


Sept.  16. 

Oct.  16. 

Flour— Super  to  Extra  State 

90 

@  8  10 

$7  90 

®  8  90 

Super  to  Extra  Southern . 

9  25 

@14  00 

9  60 

@16  00 

Extra  AVestern . 

7  70 

@14  00 

8  50 

@10  00 

Extra  Genesee . 

8  20 

@10  90 

9  00 

@12  75 

Superfine  AVestern . 

6  90 

®  7  40 

7  90 

@  8  40 

Rye  Flour . 

5  GO 

@  G  25 

6  25 

@  7  25 

Cor.N  Meal....  . 

4  75 

®  5  35 

4  75 

@  5  25 

■\VnEAT— AU  kinds  ofWIiitc. 

2  10- 

@  2  40 

2  411 

@  2  65 

All  kinds  of  Red  and  Amber. 

1  55 

@  2  10 

1  72 

®  2  42 

Corn— Y'ellow . 

89 

®  90 

92 

@  95 

Mixed . . 

72 

@  89 

'(8 

®  92 

Oats— Western . 

53 

@  54 

58 

®  62 

State . 

53 

@  - 

@  63 

Rye . 

1 00 

@  1  05 

1  13 

®  1  18 

Barley . . 

1 10 

®  1  25 

1  09 

@  1  25 

Cotton — Middlings,^  ft.... 

44 

@  45K 

58 

@  60 

Hops— Crop  of  1864,  Ib . 

15 

@  45 

10 

®  45 

Feathers— Live  Geese,  lb. 

so 

@  - 

88 

(3  1  00 

Seed— Clover,  ?)  B  . 

28 

@  30 

13 

@  15 

Timothy.  ^  bushel . 

5  00 

®  5  50 

8  75 

®  4  25 

Flax,  busliel . 

2  85 

@  3  00 

2  80 

@  3  00 

Sugar— Brown,  lb . 

HK@  16K 

12 

@  17K 

Molasses,  Cuba,  ffgl . 

88 

®  62X 

50 

®  85 

Coffee- Rio,  ft  B . 

18 

@  22K 

18 

@  22 

.  Tobacco.  Kentucky,  &c.,  f)  B. 

G 

@  20 

6 

@  .20 

Seed  Leaf,  ^  ft . 

7 

@  SO 

7 

@  SO 

AVool— Domestic  Fleece,?)  lb. 

57M®  -80 

56 

@  80 

Domestic,  pulled,  f)  B . 

60 

@  72M 

50 

@  <67 

California,  unwashed . 

20 

@  45 

18 

®  46 

Tallow,  f)  b  . 

155f@  16K 

14 

@  14H 

Oil  Cake— f)  ton . 

48  50 

@55  00 

50  00 

@55  00 

Fork— Mess,  f)  barrel . 

30  50 

@32  50 

34  75 

@35  87K 

Prime,  f)  barrel . 

24  50 

@25  00 

30  00 

@30  50 

Beef— Plain  mess . 

8  50 

®12  50 

10  50 

@13  50 

Lard,  in  barrels,  f)  B . 

22X@  27Ji 

24 

@  28X 

Butteu— AA'eslern,  ft  B . 

25 

@  38 

38 

@  42 

State,  B . 

33 

@  50 

40 

@  55 

Cheese . 

HK®  16H 

14 

@  18>^ 

Beans—?)  bushel . 

1  50 

®  2  00 

1  50 

®  2  25 

Peas- Canada.  bushel . 

1  85 

@  1  40 

1  35 

®  1  40 

Eggs— Fresh.  ^  dozen . 

25 

@  27 

83 

®  36 

Poultuy— Fowls,  ?)  B . 

24 

@  25 

18 

@  21 

TnrkeVvS,  ft . 

26 

@  28 

19 

@  20 

Potatoes— Mercers,  bbl... 

2  00 

®  2  50 

2  25 

@  2  50 

Peach  Blows,  ?)  barrel . 

— 

® - 

2  00 

®  2  2) 

Buckeyes— New,  ^barrel,... 

1  25 

®  1  50 

1  50 

@  1  75 

Apple's— ?)  barrel . 

3  00 

@  5  00 

3  00 

@  0  50 

New  Yorli  B-iivc  Stock  Itlarkcts.— 
Beef  Cattle.— The  supply  ior  Ihe  past  month  has 
averaged  6427  head  per  week  ;  previous  month  5905  per 
week  ;  same  period  last  year,  6289  per  week.  Quality 
belter  than  previous  month  ;  demand  generally  good,  and 
prices  ranging  j^cOle  per  lb.  net.  liigher.  Latest  prices 
for  Prime  to  Extra  17Xc(®18]<fc  per  lb,  estimated  dressed 
weight;  Medium  to  Good  14*'4e(S)16Hc  ;  Common  to 

Poor,  14c®10c _ Milch  Cows.  Average  weekly  receipts 

121.  Demand  good  and  prices  well  up.  First  grade  nnd 
Extra,  $90(®$120  each  ;  Ordinary  to  Fair,  $55(o)$85  ;  In- 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


ferior  to  Poor,  $50f®$35  each. . .  Veal  Calves.  Supply 
lighter,  averaging  1243  per  week  at  regular  yard.  Prices 
Improved ;  latest  sales  12cf5)14o  per  lb.,  live  weight,  for 
Good  to  Best;  others  8c,®llc,  according  to  quality.... 
Sheep  and  Lambs.  Supply  very  large,  averaging  25,302 
per  week,  which  is  SOOOdgreater  than  last  year.  Quality 
ordinary.  Prices  6}4c(a)Sc  per  lb.  live  weight  for  sheep, 
according  to  quality  ;  Lambs,  $3(3$6.50  per  head  for  the 
different  grades. . .  .Live  Hogs.  Average  weekly  receipt 
13043,  or  about  the  same  as  at  this  time  last  year.  Latest 
prices  for  good  corn-fed  13J^cf314c  per  lb.  live  weight. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


'We  are  Sure  oar  ISead.ers  will  toe 

pleased  with  the  splendid  assortment  of  excellent  ar¬ 
ticles  offered  in  the  Premium  List  on  page  332.  These 
premiums,  taken  as  a  whole,  are  superior  to  any  list 
ever  before  offered  in  this  or  any  other  journal.  Ev¬ 
ery  article  will  give  satisfaction  to  any  one  receiving  it. 
There  is  no  clap-trap  about  this  matter.  It  is  desirable 
to  have  one  or  more  persons  in  every  town  in  the  country 
to  attend  specially  to  the  subscription  lists  of  the  Agri¬ 
culturist,  and  while  there  is  not  profit  enough  to  allow 
the  sending  of  paid  canvassing  agents,  these  premiums 
will  amount  to  good  pay,  and  where  pay  is  not  the  object, 
as  an  agreeable  acknowledgment  on  the  part  of  the 
Publishers.  The  special  good  will  of  the  manufacturers, 
and  sundry  advertising  arrangements,  enable  us  to  offer 
these  articles  on  far  better  terms  than  can  be  paid  in 
cash,  but  this  does  not  detract  from  the  real  value  and 
good  quality  of  the  articles  offered  as  premiums.  That 
there  may  be  no  mistake,  we  repeat  that  every  article  is 
new  from  the  manufactory  and  of  first  quality  and  make. 
We  believe  the  Agriculturist  is  doing  a  good  work,  not 
only  in  conveying  positive  information  on  many  topics, 
and  practical  hints  and  suggestions  on  others,  but  also 
in  stimulating  thought  and  enterprise.  Very  few  persons 
can  go  through  a  volume  without  getting  some,hints,  or 
being  led  into  some  course  of  thought  and  action  that 
will  many  times  repay  the  small  subscription  asked. 
We  think  there  are  many  more  than  a  hundred  thousand 
individuals  and  families  who  would  be  really  benefited 
by  having  the  paper,  and  aside  from  our  own  interest  in 
its  diffusion,  we  take  pleasure  in  pushing  it  into  every 
corner  of  the  land.  Those  who  help  in  doing  this  will 
do  a  good  work,  aside  from  what  is  received  as  premiums. 

How  to  gfet  tills  I*aper  at  a 

TTear.— Get  three  others  to  join  you— four  copies  for  $5. 

How  to  get  this  Papci*  at  a  Year. 

—Make  up  a  club  of  twenty  or  more  at  $1  each. 

How  to  get  this  Paper  a  Year  for  O. 

— Makeup  a  club  of  ten  at  $1.20  each,  or  aclub  of  twenty 
or  more  at  $1  each,  and  receive  an  extra  copy. 

“Please  Notice  my  Advertisement. ” 
— Almost  daily  are  we  requested  to  call  attention  to  some 
advertisement  by  an  editorial  item.  As  there  are  from 
fifty  to  a  hundred  or  more  advertisements  in  each  paper, 
and  as  we  would  avoid  invidious  distinctions,  we  must, 
as  a  rule,  decline  such  respectful  and  perfectly  proper 
requests,  though  it  would  give  us  pleasure  to  oblige  each 
advertiser,  were  it  practicable.  In  fact,  however,  our 
readers  understand  that  the  admission  of  an  advertise¬ 
ment  at  all,  is  almost  equivalent  to  noticing  it,  for  the 
Advertising  Department  is  in  charge  of  one  of  the  editors 
who  is  instructed  to  admit  only  those  advertisers  whom 
he  would  himself  patronize  without  hesitation,  if  he 
chanced  to  want  what  they  advertise,  and  at  the  price 
asked.  T^is  does  not  of  course  endorse  the  price  and 
utility  of  everything  advertised,  of  which  the  reader  must 
be  a  judge.  .Some  implements,  fertilizers,  periodicals, 
etc.,  are  admitted,  which  we  would  not  recommend  ;  but 
they  are  those  about  which  there  is  a  difference  of 
opinion — as  about  phosphatic  manures,  for  example.  We 
shut  out  commodities  believed  to  be  deceptive  ;  those 
known  to  be  bad,  or  worthless  ;  and  all  parlies,  whom  we 
believe  to  be-  dishonest,  or  unreliable  in  their  pj-omises. 

Atoout  Hiuntoiigs.  —  We  are  in  constant 
receipt  of  circulars  which  have  been  addressed  to  our 
readers  in  various  parts  of  the  country,  emanating  main¬ 
ly  from  this  city,  but  in  part  from  other  cities,  and  out- 
of-the-way  towns  in  Northern  New  England  and  else¬ 
where.  These  are  usually  turned  to  good  account  by  us, 
generally  in  a  quiet  way — the  operation  being  squelched, 
there  is  no  occasion  for  our  publishing  the  particulars. 


Thus,  for  example,  a  flood  of  circulars  came  pouring  in, 
issued  by  a  so-called  firm  on  Broadway.  After  a  long 
hunt  we  found  in  a  little  upper  room  a  man  with  sundry 
assistants,  they  all  busy  sending  out  “  taking”  circulars, 
while  he  was  occupied  in  opening  a  great^pile  of  money 
letters  from  his  dupes.  His  “  immense  stocla|^of  watches, 
jewelry,  etc.,  “bought  of  the  many  dealers  failed  on  ac¬ 
count  of  the  fall  in  gold,”  consisted  of  a  few  watches  in 
cheap  paper  boxes,  which  from  the  dust  on  them  ap¬ 
peared  not  to  have  been  drawn  upon  or  disturbed  for 
several  days  at  least.  We  reported  the  case  to  Mr.  Ac¬ 
ton,  of  the  Metropolitan  Police,  and  he  had  the  chief 
swindler  arrested  and  his  establishment  broken  up  ;  but 
his  operations  were  so  adroitly  managed,  that  it  was  im¬ 
possible  to  hold  him  upon  any  distinct  charge  upon  the 
evidence  we  had.  He  is  now  probably  “operating” 
under  some  other  name  and  guise.  Will  people  ever 
learn  that  “  all  is  not  gold  that  glitters  that  the  more 
plausible  these  circulars,  the  mca-e  likely  they  are  to  be 
frauds  ;  that  no  man  is  going  to  give  two  gold  dollars  for 
one  ;  that  in  every  ticket  and  chance  scheme,  there  are 
thousands  more  of  blanks  than  prizes,  (wliere  there  any 
of  the  latter,  which  is  seldom  the  case.)  and  that  every 
purchaser  of  a  ticket  is  a  thousand  times  more  likely  to 
draw  a  blank  than  a  prize  ?  Set  it  down  as  a  fact  that  in 
all  those  cases  where  a  ticket  is  sent,  telling  just  what  is 
draw-n,  the  article  specified  will  not  be  sent,  or  will  be 
w-orthless  if  received,  and  in  nine  cases  out  of  ten,  noth¬ 
ing  at  all  will  be  returned  if  you  send  money.  Ilemember 
also,  that  in  all  those  very  plausible  “  private  ”  offers  to 
furnish  a  “prize,”  just  to  get  your  influence  or  recom¬ 
mendation,  every  man  in  your  neighborhood  whose  ad¬ 
dress  could  be  got  at,  has  received  the  same  offer  as 
yourself.  As  a  rule  never  send  a  dime  of  money,  nor 
even  a  postage  stamp,  to  any  one  addressing  you  by  cir 
c.ular,  unless  it  be  from  a  well-known  reputable  party,  or 
one  endorsed  by  the  admission  of  his  advertisement  into 
some  respectable,  careful  journal,  that  discriminates  in 
its  advertisements.  The  general  plan  is,  to  open  a  store 
under  some  name,  send  circulars  to  distant  points, 
(never  to  parties  residing  near  enough  to  be  likely  to 
call)  carry  on  the  humbug  as  long  as  it  pays  well,  or  until 
there  is  danger  of  complaint  and  detection,  and  then  dis¬ 
appear  under  that  name,  and  reappear  under  some  other. 

ofHowers  at  Iffwisit’s  ISa-itlge, 
by  tbe  Ainericau  SMStitute.— The  Buckeye  wins. 
On  the  17th  and  18th  of  July  the  American  Institute  had 
a  trial  of  Mowing  Macliines,  conducted  by  a  committee 
of  practical  farmers  and  mechanics.  We  were  present 
at  the  trial,  and  hesitate  not  to  say  that  we  never  knew 
or  heard  of  mowers  being  put  to  so  severe  and  fair  tests. 
They  cut  good  grass  and  lodged  grass,  both  fine  and 
coarse,  on  wet  places  and  dry,  on  level  ground,  on  hill 
sides,  swales,  rough  ground,  etc.,  through  dry  ditches, 
through  wet  ditches,  and  under  several  inches  of  w-ater. 
They  were  m.ade  to  cut  with  the  finger  bars  raised,  and 
depressed,  with  the  inner  wheel  on  a  ridge,  and  in  the 
bottom  of  a  ditch.  They  turned  corners  cutting  to  the 
right,  and  to  the  left,  and  went  round  short  curves  and 
long  ones.  The  machines  were  tested  by  the  dynamom¬ 
eter,  and  timed  to  see  how  fast  and  how  slow  they  could 
go  and  cut  well,  and  besides  the  mechanism  of  the  ma¬ 
chines  as  put  into  market  was  examined  and  had  its 
weight  with  the  committee.  There  were  11  machines 
entered,  and  but  7  went  through  the  trial.  All  these  did 
very  creditably,  but,  of  course,  not  equally  well  in  all 
respects.  The  result  of  the  trial  was  made  known  at  the 
recent  Fair  of  the  Institute,  the  gold  medal  of  the  So¬ 
ciety  being  awarded  to  the  Buckeye  (Adriance,  Platt  & 
Co.)  We  shall  look  for  the  rep'ort  with  interest,  and 
hope  it  will  be  full  and  fair. 

TTIie  Pesiiisylvasiia,  Hoa’ticiiltsiral 
Society. — The  autumnal  exhibition  of  this  Society 
opened  on  Sept.  27th,  and  continued  through  the  week. 
It  was  held  in  an  immense  tent,  which  formed  a  pleasant 
and  commodious  hall.  Tlie  great  feature  of  the  show 
was  its  magnificent  display  of  pot  plants  ;  not  only  were 
great  numbers  of  these  entered  in  competition  for  prizes, 
but  they  were  used  profusely  in  decorating  the  hall.  A 
most  pleasing  effect  was  produced  near  one  end  of  the 
hall  by  means  of  a  circular  sheet  of  water,  around  the 
nicely  turfed  margin  of  which  were  placed  vases  of 
rare  flowers.  An  island  occupied  the  centre  of  the  ba¬ 
sin,  made  up  of  tall  and  luxuriant  pot  plants,  so  liberally 
employed  as  to  conceal  the  musicians  who  occupied  the 
island  as  an  orchestra.  A  Victoria  Regia  in  flower,  and 
other  aquatics  found  a  genial  location  in  the  basin.  The 
show  of  fruits,  which  was  not  large,  w-as  essentially 
helped  by  a  fine  contribution  from  Ellwanger  &Barry,  of 
Rochester.  The  display  of  vegetables  was  fine,  a  collec¬ 
tion  by  A.  L.  Felton,  Esq.,  being  remarkable  for  its 
extent,  as  well  as  for  its  excellence.  A  magnificent 
show  of  potatoes  by  A.  W.  Harrison,  Esq.,  attracted 
much  attention.  There  were  some  20  varieties,  all  of 
which  had  been  treated  the  same  in  cultivation,  and  each 
h-ad  the  yield  per  acre  given  upon  the  label.  We  can 


333 


not  give  space  to  enumerate  all  the  attractions  of  this 
most  interesting  exhibition,  the  success  of  which  must 
be  highly  gratifying  to  the  contributors  and  officers, 
who,  by  their  hearty  cooperation  and  efficient  labors, 
presented  to  an  appreciative  public  so  grand  a  horticul¬ 
tural  exhibition.  We  must  notice  one  feature  worthy  of 
imitation  elsewhere  ;  the  presence  each  day  of  a  com¬ 
mittee  of  ladies,  who  received  the  cut  flowers,  made  U[> 
bouquets,  and  in  numerous  ways  added  to  the  effect. 

Tlie  YreBEcli  ExlRitoitioii. — France — that, 
is  Louis  Napoleon — is  to  have  a  grand  Exposition  in 
Paris,  the  spring  and  summer  of  1867.  From  the  prepar¬ 
ations  already  made  and  the  interest  excited  in  it,  it  bids 
fair  to  excel  in  magnificence  and  perhaps  utility  also, 
any  other  World’s  Fair.  Little  thanks  do  we  owe  the 
French  government  for  the  position  it  has  occupied  to¬ 
wards  us  during  the  past  four  years,  yet  it  will  be  for 
our  own  interest  to  be  well  represented  in  Paris  in  all 
departments.  Applications  for  space  must  be  made  be¬ 
fore  January  31st,  1866.  Mr.  J.  C.  Derby,  5  Spruce-st., 
N.  Y.,  Commissioner  appointed  by  the  Sec’y  of  State, 
will  give  further  information. 

'■fftoe  Yerritole  Hroutli. — Never  withia 
our  memory  has  there  been  so  severe  a  drouth  as  now 
prevails  over  some  portions  of  our  country,  especially  in 
most  of  New  England.  Our  own  tw  o  large  cisterns  have 
hitherto  always  furnished  an  abundant  supply  of  water, 
but  they  are  dry  now.  The  herbage  in  the  field,  the 
shrubbery,  flowers,  and  strawberry  and  other  plants  in  the 
garden,  are  as  dry  as  if  growing  on  an  ash  heap.  Few 
pastures  furnish  even  a  green  picking  for  the  animals. 
We  hear  of  localities  where  there  is  hardly  water  enough 
in  wells  and  brooks  to  keep  the  stock  alive,  and  many 
have  to  procure  it  from  a  distance  of  three  to  ten  miles. 
Persons  who  have  recently  travelled  through  Central 
New  England  say  there  is  hardly  a  plot  of  green  grass 
to  be  seen  over  large  areas.  The  manufactories,  paper- 
mills,  etc.,  depending  for  power  upon  the  smaller  .streams, 
are  at  a  dead  stand-still.  It  was  providential  indeed  that 
this  drouth  occurred  after  the  growth  of  the  main  crops 
was  secured,  otherwise  we  should  have  had  almost  a 
famine.  In  actual  loss  we  can  well  sympathize  with  our 
readers.  Printing  paper  is  more  than  fifty  per  cent 
higher  than  three  months  ago,  mainly  from  the  stoppage 
of  so  many  mills.  The  printing  paper  for  this  one 
number  alone  costs  us  nearly  $1500  more  now  than  it 
would  have  done  in  July,  and  the  extra  cost  to  us  of  tho 
drouth,  so  far,  would  buy  a  good  farm.  We  are  paying 
within  one  cent  a  pound  of  the  price  when  gold  was  at 
280.  With  a  multitude  of  our  readers  we  would  gladly 
hail  an  Elijah  in  these  days— October  14th. — P.  S.  on 
Oct.  16.— Moderate  fall  of  rain  yesterday,  but  not  enough. 

Steinway  Sc  Sons’  l*iaiio.s. — The  su¬ 
perior  quality  of  these  instruments  is  universaliy  admit¬ 
ted.  We  call  attention  to  the  particulars  in  their  adver¬ 
tisement  on  page  354.  It  will  also  be  noted  that  we  offer 
some  of  them  in  our  premium  list,  on  the  previous  page, 
and  on  very  liberal  terms.  Any  energetic  person,  lady 
or  gentleman,  starting  out  with  earnest  purpose,  can 
gather  500  subscribers  in  a  very  few  w  eeks,  often  without 
canvassing  moi-e  than  a  single  town.  But  names  for 
premiums  need  not  be  confined  to  one  locality.  The 
S600  piano,  to  be  kept  or  sold,  would  pay  many  per¬ 
sons  for  six  months  or  a  year’s  work,  while  ten  subscrib¬ 
ers  a  day  for  fifty  days,  or  five  a  day  for  a  hundred  days, 
will  secure  the  instrument.  Some  will  average  fifteen 
or  twenty  or  more  a  day,  after  getting  a  little  accustomed 
to  the  work  of  canvassing.  The  kind  offered  are  not 
only  of  first  quality,  but  beautiful  also,  viz  : — “  Seven- 
octave  ;  Rosewood  Case,  Large  Front,  Round  Corners, 
Carved  Legs  and  Lyre;  Overstrung  Bass,  with  Patent 
Agraffe  Treble,  and  all  Modern  Improvements."  The 
Carved  Legs  are  an  extra  addition  to  our  premium  in¬ 
struments,  of  which  the  lowest  regular  price  is  $600 
without  this  addition.  We  hope  to  have  the  pleasure  of 
sending  out  quite  a  number  of  these  fine  instruments. 
A  Suggestion.- In  not  a  few  cases  the  pupiis  or 
friends  of  a  lady  can  divide  up  the  500  subscribers,  and 
each  procure  among  their  friends  and  acquaintances  a 
portion  of  the  number  of  subscribers.required. 

Tlae  Practical  Entomologist.— Uu- 

der  this  title  the  Entomological  Society  of  Philadelphia, 
propose  to  issue  an  occasional  Bulletin,  containing  in- 
foi-mation  upon  the  Insects  injurious  and  beneficial  to 
vegetation.  It  is  intended  to  circulate  this  publication 
gratuitously,  and  the  society  ask  the  cooperation  of  all 
interested  in  the  subject.  Circulars  setting  forth  the 
scope,  etc.,  of  the  work  may  be  obtained  by  addressing  E. 
T.  Cresson,  Esq.,  Sec.,  518  South  13th-St.,  Philadelphia. 

'I'lie  Barn  Plans. — A  large  number  Lava 
been  received,  many  of  them  of  very  great  excellence. 
We  hope  to  give  the  prize  plan  in  the  January  number. 


334r 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTTJRIST, 


rNoVEMBER, 


Oood  Mnnitre  Going;  to  the  '%Vinds. 

-A  subscriber  in  Tioga  Co.,  has  a  compost  heap — a  mix¬ 
ture  of  “  fleshings  of  hides.  Iiair,  lime,  ashes,  weeds,  chip 
manure,  etc.,  really,  most  everything.”  It  was  piled  up 
in  a  conical  heap,  and  he  recently  found  It  “dry  and 
very  hot,”  and  being  burned  up.  He  wants  to  know 
what  is  to  be  done.  Simply  work  it  all  over,  making  a 
new  pile  and  mingling  it  with  at  least  its  own  bulk  of 
muck  or  peat,  or  sods  and  parings  of  turf,  or  simple  soil. 
This  will  stay  the  destruction  in  a  measure.  The  mis¬ 
take  was  in  the  original  mixture.  There  probably  ought 
to  have  been  a  greater  proportion  of  vegetable  matter, 
weeds,  chip  manure,  etc.,  but  there  ought  not  to  have 
been  any  lime  or  ashes  mixed  with  the  fleshings,  hair, 
and  other  animal  matters.  When  lime  and  animal  mat¬ 
ter  are  mixed,  as  in  some  of  the  refuse  of  tanneries, 
the  influence  of  the  lime  must  be  counteracted  as  far  as 
possible,  by  the  addition  of  muck,  soil,  etc.  The  dele¬ 
terious  action  of  lime  and  alkalies  in  such  a  heap  is  to 
expel  the  ammonia  in  gaseous  form,  which  is  hope¬ 
lessly  lost.  A  loss  just  of  the  same  character  takes  place 
whenever  manure  heats  and  burns. 

“  Mari.” — We  very  often  have  letters  asking 
about  marl.  Farmers  have  beds  of  it,  or  it  abounds  near 
them,  etc.,  and  they  want  to  know  how  much  it  is  worth, 
and  how  to  use  it.  The  different  kinds  of  marl  vary 
greatly.  Some  marl  is  chiefly  minute  shells,  like  clam  or 
snail  shells,  consisting  of  carbonate  of  lime,  and  some  is 
so  solid  that  it  can  be  burnt  for  lime.  In  other  marls,  the 
shells  are  mingled  with  sand,  clay  and  vegetable  matter. 
These  are  often  very  useful  as  applications  to  the  soil, 
raw,  composted,  or  having  been  exposed  to  frosts.  When 
lime  is  beneficial,  marl  usually  is  also.  The  only  con¬ 
venient  way  for  most  persons  to  ascertain  the  value  of 
any  particular  kind  is  to  try  it.  Apply  it  liberally  and 
sparely  upon  grass  land,  in  fall  or  early  spring,  to  the 
corn  crop,  to  potatoes,  etc.,  in  each  case  making  careful 
record  of  the  results,  for  your  own  and  others’  benefit. 

SSoiie  fiJiiist  lor  '^Vlaeat.  —  T.  Lindsey, 
Harrison  Co.,  Indiana,  inquires  “  for  information  through 
the  Agriculturist,  as  to  the  economy  of  paying  $30.00 
per  ton  for  bone  dust  for  manuring  wheat.”  Farmers 
who  have  applied  bone  dust  as  a  top-dressing  to  wheat, 
have  almost  invariably  come  to  the  conclusion  that  it 
does  not  pay.  Bone  dust  is  the  great  fertilizer  for  tur¬ 
nips,  and  usually  most  excellent  for  grass.  But  wheat  re¬ 
quires  a  manure  containing  a  larger  proportion  of  nitro¬ 
genous  matter.  Bone  dust  is  no  doubt  of  some  value  for 
wheat.  oOO  pounds  per  .acre  is  a  medium  quantity, 
although  one  ton  is  much  better.  Tb**.,;  is  little  danger 
of  sowing  it  too  thickly,  for  it  is  ■.  very  valuable  thing  to 
have  in  the  soil  for  other  ci-'^s. 

Sawtlsis?  ior  Maiitiai'e.  — “Please  tell 
me  how  i'  lo  best  to  make  manure  out  of  sawdust?” 
Some  •■'.iif  clays  would  be  benefited  by  raw  sawdust  ; 
he.e  you  have  manure  out  of  sawdust,  ready-made.  For 
a  sandy  soil  it  would,  we  judge,  be  belter  were  it  some¬ 
what  decayed,  therefore  it  might  be  laid  up  and  moist¬ 
ened  through  with  warm  barn-yard  liquor  or  urine  :  this 
would  soon  start  a  heat,  and  it  would  turn  brown 
and  soft,  in  which  state  it  would  make  a  tolerable  ma- 
ure.  It  makes  very  good  bedding  for  horses  or  cattle, 
being  easy  to  manage,  clean  out,  etc.,  but  it  heats  rapidly 
in  the  manure  heap.  Unless  it  can  be  mixed  with  some¬ 
thing  else,  it  ought  to  be  kept  trodden  down  hard  and 
wet,  or  composted  with  muck  or  sods. 

Manuring'  House  Plants. — “  Mrs.  M.,” 
Washington,  D.  C.  Well  rotted  cow  manure  mixed  with 
the  potting  soil  is  the  best.  Poudrette  is  generally  un¬ 
reliable,  and  guano  apt  to  do  more  harm  than  good. 
Camellias  and  other  hard  wooded  plants  are  very  apt  to 
be  injured  by  the  injudicious  use  of  guano,  though  it  may 
sometimes  be  used  on  herbaceous  ones  with  good  results. 
A  teaspoonful  in  a  quart  of  water  may  be  applied  once  a 
week.  A  very  weak  infusion  of  cow  or  stable  manure 
may  be  used  sparingly.  If  the  plants  are  lagging,  it  is 
better  to  repot  them  ;  if  no  good  compost  is  at  hand,  it 
may  be  procured^f  the  florists. 

A  Compost  Heap. — “  One  who  wishes  to 
be  a  farmer,”  has  a  compost  heap  made  as  follows  :  “  A 
foundation  of  muck  6  inches  deep,  stable  manure  flinches 
deep,  a  thin  layer  of  cracked  bones  as  bigas  hen’s  eggs, 
fi  inches  muck,  6  inches  stable  manure,  ‘2  inches  leticlied 
ashes,  3  inches  woolen  rags,  and  the  whole  covered  with 
6  inches  muck.”  He  asks  “  Shall  I  put  in  some  old  mor¬ 
tar,  and  shall  I  add  lime  ?”  The  old  mortar  will  do  no 
harm  if  it  is  crusheil  fine.  The  lime  should  be  kept  out 
in  all  probability.  We  would  keep  an  old  fork  handle 
thrust  into  the  heap  so  that  by  drawing  it  out  we  could 
see  how  much  heat  was  generated.  If  it  did  not  heal,  it 
should  be  drenched  pre*ty  freely,  but  not  soaked  with  the 


teachings  of  a  manure  heap,  (barn-yard  liquor.)  The 
bones  and  leather  will  hardly  decompose  well  unless  the 
fermentation  is  active  and  the  heap  kept  sligiitly  moist 
with  yard  liquor.  After  it  has  heated  weli  for  a  month, 
it  should  be  made  over,  the  whole  being  mixed  and  re- 
laid  with  m(^  muck,  or  more  manure,  or  both,  according 
to  how  hot  and  well  decomposed  it  has  become.  If  very 
inert,  one  bushel  of  slacked  lime  to  15  or  20  bushels  of 
compost,  might  be  added,  and  the  whole  covered  up  with 
muck  for  the  winter,  but  if  a  brisk  fermentation  comes 
on  again,  this  must  be  kept  down  either  by  working  it 
over  again,  adding  more  muck,  or  keeping  it  quite  wet 
with  water  or  yard  liquor,  and  trodden  down  hard. 

Satlt  aaidi  Sjime. — “  C.  F.  C.”  Perhaps  no 
question  has  excited  more  discussion  in  Great  Britain  of 
late,  than  the  use  of  salt  as  a  manure,  and  we  certainly 
can  not  answer  your  question  without  more  data,  in  re¬ 
gard  to  your  soil,  etc.  We  have  no  doubt  it  has  often 
increased  the  grass  crop,  and  so  also  with  grain  crops. 
Sowed  at  plowing  in  the  spring,  it  is  said  to  have  de¬ 
stroyed  wire  worms.  For  roots  of  all  kinds  it  may  be 
applied  either  with  the  other  manure,  or  as  a  top  dressing, 
100  to  600  pounds  to  the  acre. — The  lime  may  be  worth  $1 
per  cask,  if  you  can  not  get  it  for  less.  Exposure  to 
freezing  often  fits  muck  for  the  compost  heap,  manure 
pile,  or  for  direct  application,  almost  as  well  as  com¬ 
posting  it  with  lime.  Both  freezing  and  liming  are  useful. 

Manas'emeikt  of  Sheep.  —  Charles  B. 
McClure,  Dauphin  Co.,  Pa  ,  (a  lad  nine  years  old),  hav¬ 
ing  14  sheep  thin  in  flesh,  wishes  to  know  how  to  manage 
them.  Make  comfortable  sheds  at  once  for  them.  If 
they  are  to  raise  lambs  next  season,  they  will  not  require 
mueh  grain  if  they  have  hay,  corn  stalks,  and  plenty  of 
good  straw,  with  access  to  salt  and  water.  Feed  roots, 
or  apples  at  least  twice  a  week,  and  give  them  hemlock 
or  pine  boughs  often  in  winter.  If  for  mutton,  feed  them 
one  pound  each,  daily,  of  Indian  corn,  or  corn  meal  and 
oil  meal  in  equal  quantities.  If  sheep  have  hay  in  the 
morning,  straw  during  the  day,  one  pound  each  of  meal 
at  noon,  and  corn  stalks  at  night,  with  a  good  shed,  they 
will  fatten  rapidly.  Peas  and  beans  are  excellent  feed. 
Read  about  sheep  in  former  numbers  of  the  Agriculturist. 

S>iat*rlicea.  in  Slieep. — Charles  Fiedler, 
Waukesha  Co.,  Wis.,  writes:  '‘My  sheep  have  had 
the  diarrhoea  for  about  one  year,  and  have  had  no  lambs. 
Is  that  the  reason?  Can  you  suggest  a  remedy?’’  No 
doubt  the  disease  prevented  breeding.  Turn  the  sheep 
into  another  pasture,  or  feed  them  hay  once  a  day  and  a 
pint  of  wheat  bran  daily,  and  let  them  have  access  to 
salt.  There  is  some  weed  that  causes  the  disease,  which 
indeed  may  also  be  in  the  hay  of  your  own  farm. 

'fo  Preserve  Fenee  Posts,  etc. — 

Milo  H.  Moon,  of  Hendricks  Co.,  Ind.,  savs  in  a  com¬ 
munication  to  the  Agriculturist-.  “ By  sprinkling  salt 
around  the  posts  and  allowing  stock  to  lick  it,  they 
will  graze  off  the  grass  and  weeds  close  to  the  ground, 
and  smooth  and  pack  the  surface  so  that  the  water  will 
readily  run  off,  and  licking  the  posts  will  keep  lint  from 
collecting,  and  add  materially  to  their  durability.” 

Ijice  OM  Poultry. — A  correspondent  who 
has  tried  the  use  of  Kerosene  applied  upon  fowls  to  cure 
lice,  writes  to  warn  others  against  trying  it.  One  of  the 
two  on  which  it  was  tried  soon  died,  the  other  being  in 
great  pain  was  kiiled.  “  Their  flesh  looked  as  if  seared 
with  a  hot  iron.”  No  doubt  the  quantity  applied  was  too 
great,  it  ought  not  to  wet  the  skin  at  ail.  Neither  should 
any  other  application  to  fowis,  except  soap  and  water. 

Ijocust  Miller. — The  wasp-like  inseet  left 
by  J.  H.  Bloodgood,  of  Perth  Amboy,  which  digs  hoies 
in  the  garden  like  big  ant-hills,  and  stings  badly,  is  the 
Hogardia  speciosus,  or  locust-killer.  It  kills  locusts  (or 
Cicada,)  lays  its  eggs  in  them  and  buries  them,  leaving 
the  ground  so  smooth  that  they  can  hardly  be  found, 
and  though  their  sting  is  bad,  they  can  not  be  classed 
among  injurious  insects. 

File  Msisstitelkiisetts  Mortieuitiaral 
Society. — This  pioneer  association,  which  since  its 
formation  in  1829  has  steadily  progressed  in  prosperity 
and  usefulness,  celebrated  on  Sept.  16th  an  era  in  its 
history.  The  occasion  was  the  opening  of  its  n^  Hall, 
on  Tremont-street.  The  building  is  of  granite,  and  the 
architectural  design  is  chaste  and  elegant.  There  are  two 
spacious  halls  for  exhibition  purposes,  and  the  necessary 
committee  and  library  rooms,  beside  the  stores  upon  the 
ground  floor  and  basement.  The  President  of  the  Society, 
C.  M.  Hovey,  Esq.,  delivered  an  interesting  address,  and 
an  ode  was  sung,  etc.  On'the  following  Monday  the  So¬ 
ciety  held  its  39th  annual  exhibition  in  its  new  rooms, 
which  seemed  almost  as  much  too  small  for  the  bountiful 


contributions  as  did  the  old  Hall  a  few  years  ago.  The 
show  of  apples  was  meagre,  as  it  is  everywhere,  though 
there  were  a  few  fine  plates,  especially  of  Baldwin  and 
Hubbardston  Nonsuch.  The  exhibition  of  pears  was 
great,  as  it  aiways  is  in  Boston.  The  largest  number  of 
varieties  were  from  Hovey  &  @o.,  and  M.  P.  Wilder, 
both  interesting  collections,  as  they  contained  specimens 
of  new  ffhd  rare  varieties.  Remarkabiy  fine  Sheldon, 
De  Tongres,  Beurre  Bose,  Beurre  D’Anjou  and  other 
leading  sorts  were  shown  by  several  exhibiters.  A  seed¬ 
ling  pear  by  Doct.  S.  A.  Shurtieff,  of  Brookline,  was  no¬ 
ticeable  for  its  fine  appearance.  It  bore  the  name  of  Ad¬ 
miral  Farragut,  and  if  it  is  at  all  like  its  namesake,  will 
perform  all  it  promises.  The  show  of  hardy  grapes  was 
poor,  as  that  of  exotic  ones  was  excelient.  The  onlv 
variety  shown  in  any  great  perfection  was  the  Catawba. 
We  expected  to  see  a  fine  show  of  Rogers’  Hybrids,  but 
found  only  some  6  or  8  numbers,  which  did  the  grapes  no 
credit.  The  exhibition  was  weak  in  cut  flowers,  owing 
to  the  unusual  dryness  of  the  season,  but  the  lack  in  this 
department  was  made  up  by  the  excellence  of  the  pot- 
plants.  A  fine  collection  of  these  from  the  Cambridge 
Botanical  Garden  carried  off  several  of  the  prizes.  The 
exhibition  of  vegetables  was  very  large  and  interesting. 
The  growers  around  Boston  are  great  on  squashes,  but 
poor  on  celery.  We  can  only  give  the  general  features 
of  this  most  interesting  exhibition.  As  we  passed  through 
these  elegant  and  spacious  halls,  overflowing  with  the 
products  of  the  orchard  and  garden,  remembering  the  first 
exhibition  of  this  society,  which  we  attended  some  20 
years  ago  in  a  small  hall  on  Tremont  Row,  the  contrast 
was  striking.  As  a  New  Yorker,  it  was  painful  to  think 
that  the  New  York  and  Brooklyn  Horticultural  Societies 
had  dwindled  and  dissolved,  while  in  what  New  Yorkers 
call  the  “provincial  town”  of  Boston,  their  Institution 
goes  on  with  increasing  prosperity. 

TBie  Worcester  <Jo.  Hort£citltiira.l 
Society. — It  was  pleasant  to  find  in  the  beautiful  inland 
town  of  Worcester  so  fine  a  show  of  fruits  as  was  pre¬ 
sented  at  tiie  annual  exhibition  of  this  society.  An  ample 
hall  is  owned  by  the  society,  and  this  was  well  filled  with 
horticultural  products.  Pears  were  of  course  the  prom¬ 
inent  feature  in  the  exhibition.  The  show  of  native 
grapes  was  better  than  that  at  Boston,  and  included  most 
of  the  standard  varieties.  Enormous  bunches  of  Union 
Village  were  shown,  and  some  finely  grown  and  well 
ripened  Adirondacs  from  G.  H.  Martin,  of  Norwich, 
Conn.,  attracted  much  attention.  We  were  particularly 
pleased  with  the  show  of  vegetables,  which,  considering 
the  comparatively  cool  climate  of  Worcester,  w.as  ex¬ 
ceedingly  creditable  to  the  exhibiters.  There  was  a  most 
interesting  collection  of  potatoes,  many  of  them  seed¬ 
lings.  Mr.  Jas.  S  Pike,  Worcester,  exhibited  42  varie¬ 
ties,  and  Mr.  S.  P.  Champney,  Saundersville,  a  large 
number. 

1'lie  Hoi*t;icii.ltu>*a.l  FxSiil>itioEi  oi 
tile  American  Institute.  —  Liberal  premiums 
were  offered  and  abundant  room  provided,  but  for  some 
reason  our  cultivators  failed  to  appear  in  force,  and  the 
show  was,  as  a  whole,  a  failure.  Had  it  not  been  fora 
collection  of  pears  from  Ellwanger  &  Barry,  at  Ro¬ 
chester,  the  show  of  this  fruit  would  have  been  pitifully 
poor.  There  were  some  good  specimens  of  grapes, 
but  the  display  was  not  one-tenth  of  what  it  might  have 
been,  had  our  cultivators  done  themselves  justice.  The 
vegetables  could  have  all  been  put  in  a  wheel-barrow,  and 
were  not  worth  wheeling  a  great  distance  at  that.  In 
the  way  of  pot  plants  it  was  better,  thanks  to  Messrs. 
Buchanan,  Hogg,  and  others.  Mr.  D.  D.  Buchanan  of 
Reid’s  Nurseries  made  a  creditable  sliow  of  evergreens. 
We  regret  to  be  obliged  to  record  such  a  state  of  apathy 
among  our  horticuiturists,  as  is  indicated  by  the  meagre 
show  at  the  Institute.  The  Greeley  prizes,  which  it  was 
e«pected  would  be  awarded  at  this  exhibition,  are  said 
to  be  still  held  in  abeyance,  but  we  are  not  yet  officially 
infoi  med  of  the  actual  state  of  the  matter. 

Tlie  Heath  of  Mr.  Jlosepli  il^rost. — 
The  friends  of  Frost  &  Co.,  proprietors  of  the  Genesee 
Valley  Nurseries,  at  Rochester,  will  be  pained  to  learn 
of  the  death  of  Joseph,  the  junior  member  of  the  firm, 
who  died  very  suddenly  at  St.  Louis,  on  Sept.  26th.  .Mr. 
F.  possessed  a  geniality  of  manner  that  ende:ired  him  to 
all  who  knew  him,  and  his  loss  will  be  felt  by  a  large 
circle  of  friends. 


Farly  HipenliijS^  of  Fruit. — The  un¬ 
usually  dry  autumn  has  caused  most  varieties  of  fruit  to 
ripen  in  advance  of  their  usual  time,  and  the  early  win¬ 
ter  sorts  in  many  cases  come  into  eating  in  autumn.  The 
fruit  grower  should  be  on  his  guard  against  loss  from  this 
early  maturity,  and  see  tliat  his  fruit  does  not  get  beyond 
the  proper  state  of  ripeness  for  the  table  and  market.  Keep 
all  winter  fruit  as  cool  as  possible,  without  freezing. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


335 


TIbc  WSiite  French  Xurnip. — A  few 

years  ago,  we  were  so  favorably  impressed  with  the  merits 
of  this  turnip  as  grown  in  some  portions  of  Rhode  Island, 
tliat  we  procured  a  large  amount  of  seed  and  distributed 
it  free  among  our  readers.  In  many  cases  the  reports 
were  exceedingly  satisfactory,  wliile  in  oliiers  from  some 
cause  it  did  not  appear  to  do  well,  and  we  ceased  to 
recommend  it  further.  Mr.  Hollowell,  a  large  farmer  in 
Pasquotank  Co  ,  N.  C.,  informs  us  tliat  in  his  region  the 
seed  received  from  us  gave  the  highest  satisfaction,  the 
crop  far  exceeding  in  value  any  variety  of  tlie  Swede  or 
other  kinds,  and  that  tliey  continue  to  cultivate  it  there 
as  extensively  as  they  can  procure  seed.  For  some 
reason  they  can  not  grow  turnip  seed  well  there.  He 
hopes  the  reopening  to  northern  markets  will  etiable  tliem 
to  procure  an  ample  supply,  if  it  is  to  be  had  here. 

Sheep  at  the  Y.  State  Fair. — 

“  Gastar”  merinos,  with  fancifully  high  prices,  ($200  to 
$6000)  were  present  in  full  force  from  New  York  State 
and  from  Veimont,  breeders  from  other  States  being  ad¬ 
mitted  on  a  equal  footing  with  those  from  this.  The 
Silesian  merinos  of  Wm.  Chamberlain,  of  Red  Hook,  have 
a  finer  fleece,  greasy  enough,  which  we  have  no  tloubt 
will  cleanse  quite  as  heavy  as  the  Americans.  The  South 
Downs,  particularly  Mr.  Thorne’s  Yearlings,  were  per¬ 
fect  pictures.  Those  of  Messrs.  Gfifling  and  G.  H.  Brown 
excellent.  We  took  great  satisfaction  also  in  the  fine 
large  Shropshire  Downs  and  Hampshire  Downs,  shown 
by  Mr.  Lilienthal.  Middle  wool  sheep,  South  Downs,  and 
their  congeners  especially,  are  the  sheep  for  our  eastern 
farmers,  furnishing  unsurpassed  mutton  and  wool,  for 
which  there  is  a  constant  demand. 

Termin-fifee  Heus’  Nests. — The  fowls 
of  Thos.  Lawrence,  of  Rockland  Co.,  N.  Y.,  were  great¬ 
ly  troubled  with  lice.  Having  little  soft  h.ay  for  nests, 
Mr.  L.  tried  some  Sycamore  (button  ball)  leaves,  for  one 
or  two  nests  for  sitting  hens.  In  these  nests  no  lice  were 
to  be  found,  though  they  abounded  elsewhere  in  the 
house — on  Sassafras  roosts,  in  the  nests,  and  on  the  birds — 
in  spite  of  the  most  diligent  use  of  lime,  ashes,  etc.  The 
nests  were  all  changed.  Sycamore  leaves  took  the  place 
of  hay  and  straw,  and  the  lice  entirely  disappeared,  after 
whitewashing  once  or  twice  as  usual.  Now  the  building 
has  gone  a  long  time  without  whitewash,  and  still  no 
vermin  appear. 

SliaBle  Trees  Injured  toy  Morses. — 

J.  E.  Pratt,  wishes  to  know  what  to  do  with  shade  trees, 
the  bark  of  which  has  been  gnawed  by  liorses.  Pare  off 
the  rough  portions  and  cover  the  wound  with  a  generous 
poultice  of  cow  dung  and  loamy  soil,  to  which  some 
iiair  may  be  added  to  give  it  tenacity.  The  mass  is  kept 
in  piace  by  covering  it  with  a  piece  of  bagging  or  other 
fabric,  and  tying  it  all  securely. 

How  to  Tettoer  out  a  Horse. — “  T. 

.S.  J.”  thus  writes :  “  I  used  to  tether  a  horse  by  the  head 
in  former  days,  but  he  would  almost  always  get  his  feet 
over  the  tether  line  and  hurt  himself,  or  get  down.  This 
led  me  to  devise  some  other  method,  and  I  hitched  my 
tether  line  to  the  fore-leg,  but  tlie  same  evil  existed  in 
that ;  then  I  tried  a  third  experiment.  I  took  a  piece  of 
an  old  leathern  tug,  long  enough  to  make  a  bow  to  go 
around  his  hind  leg,  made  a  liole  In  each  end,  put  in  an 
iron  bolt  of  proper  size  and  length,  with  a  thumb-nut, 
attached  a  trace  chain  to  it,  and  put  it  around  the  hind 
leg  of  my  horse  just  above  the  ankle,  and  the  other  end 
of  tlie  chain  was  fastened  to  a  post.  I  watched  the  horse 
for  a  long  lime,  to  see  how  the  plan  would  work,  and  I 
soon  became  convinced  that  I  had  hit  upon  the  true  way 
of  tethering.  This  was  about  ten  years  ago,  and  there 
has  not  been  a  year  since  that'  I  have  not  practised  this 
way  of  tethering  my  horses,  and  I  never  have  had  a  horse 
hurt  himself,  get  down,  or  in  any  way  get  tangled  by 
means  of  this  tether  line.  I  use  a  rope  or  chain,  as  is 
most  convenient,  but  a  chain  is  preferable,  because  it  does 
not  injure  it  to  get  wet,  as  it  does  a  rope.  The  strap  of 
which  I  have  made  my  bow  to  go  around  the  ankle,  I 
have  used  ten  years,  and  don’t  know  but  it  would  last  ten 
years  more.  I  have  often  oiled  it  with  neat’s  foot  oil.  I 
prefer  a  leather  bow  to  wood  or  iron,  as  it  never  has 
chafed.  I  have  used  this  method  on  young,  wild  colts, 
and  never  had  one  injured  by  it ;  it  is  a  most  excellent 
way  of  taming  them.” 

Smut  in  Wlieat — Kemedies  in  North 
Carolina. — We  recently  met  Mr.  C.  W.  Hollowell,  an 
old  subscriber  in  Pasquotank  Co.,  N.  C.,  who,  like  many 
thousands  of  others,  has  been  separated  from  us  by  the 
war.  Amongotheritems  he  informed  us  that  the  “smut” 
had  been  greatly  detrimental  to  the  wheat  crop  in  his 
vicinity,  and  indeed  throughout  the  Stale.  Three  years 
ago  he  sowed  120  acres  of  wheat,  as  follows  :  The  seed 


for  40  acres  was  soaked  over  night  in  strong  old  brine 
from  pork,  and  then  thoroughiy  mixed  with  lime  by 
shoveling  it  over  on  the  barn  floor.  No  smut  was  found 
in  the  crop.  For  the  second  40  acres,  the  treatment  was 
the  same  as  the  above,  except  that  the  brine  was  reduced 
by  adding  an  equal  amount  of  water.  This  crop  con¬ 
tained  some  smut.  For  the  third  40  acres,  the  seed  was 
wet  with  water  only,  but  well  coated  witli  lime.  The 
crop  was  full  of  smut.  These  experiments  seem  to  prove 
tliat  the  lime  was  not  the  curative  agent.  An  effectual 
remedy  has  been  found  in  blue  vitriol  (sulphate  of  copper). 
For  each  10  bushels  of  seed  wheat,  1  lb.  of  the  vitriol  is 
dissolved  in  water  enough  to  just  cover  the  wheat.  The 
vitriol  dissolves  quickly  in  hot  water,  but  cold  water  may 
be  used  by  giving  more  time  and  stirring  it  occasionally. 
Experiments  show  no  difference  in  the  effects,  when  the 
seed  is  simply  wet  and  then  sown,  or  when  it  is  suffered 
to  lie  in  a  heap  and  soak  for  8  or  10  hours.  Mr.  Hollowell 
says  that  during  the  war  little  blue  vitriol  could  be  got, 
and  that  it  sometimes  cost  several  dollars  a  pound  ;  and 
that  those  who  obtained  it  had  so  good  wheat,  that  they 
could  readily  sell  it  at  a  high  price  for  seed,  so  prevalent 
was  the  smut.  His  soil  is  a  sandy  loam,  alluvial. 

A  lied.  Tocu^it. — A  red  flowering  variety 
of  the  common  locust,  but  like  that  in  every  respect 
save  the  color  of  its  flowers,  is  offered  by  the  European 
nurserymen.  It  is  called  Robinia  Decaisneana,  and  is 
said  to  be  highly  ornamental. 

A  New  "Worlf  Atooiit  Insects. — “Cu¬ 
rious  Facts  in  the  History  of  Insects,  including  spiders 
and  scorpions.  A  complete  collection  of  the  legends, 
superstitions,  beliefs,  and  ominous  signs,  connected  with 
insects,  together  with  their  uses  in  medicine,  art,  and  as 
food  ;  and  a  summary  of  their  remarkable  injuries  and 
appearances.  By  Frank  Cowan.  Pa.,  J.  B.  Lippin- 
cott  &  Co,”  pp.  396.  We  give  the  title  in  full,  as  it 
explains  the  scope  of  the  work.  It  is  pleasant,  gossipy 
reading,  culleil  from  a  great  number  of  works,  some  of 
them  quite  rare,  and  shows  extensive  research  on  the 
part  of  the  author,  wlio  has  had  tiie  good  sense  to  give 
reference  to  volume  and  page  for  his  quotations. 

“Inspector  Oeneral.” — Why  take  an 
Agricultural  Paper  ?— An  Illinoian,  whose  expressive 
French  suffers  from  translation  and  condensation,  writes  : 

“  Often  when  I  ask  my  neighbors  to  subscribe  for  the 
Agriculturist,  they  object  something  in  tliis  manner  : 

‘  We  know  what  to  do,  we  have  no  time  to  read,  we  do 
not  know  whether  it  will  be  worth  what  it  costs,  and  be¬ 
sides  it  is  from  the  East,  where  the  culture  is  different 
from  that  of  the  West,  etc.’  I  answer  like  this;  ‘The 
great  profit  I  have  found  in  reading  my  agricultural  jour¬ 
nals  is  that,  while  they  taught  me  many  useful  things,  they 
made  me  love  agriculture.  To  love  our  work  is  the 
only  way  to  lighten  it,  and  the  naore  we  love  it,  the 
more  progress  v\e  sliall  make.’  The  sad  malady  of  not 
loving  farm  work,  which  has  many  victims  among  my 
brother  farmers,  has  been  cured  in  me  by  my  reading  the 
agricultural  journals  in  my  moments  of  leisure,  and  par¬ 
ticularly  during  our  fine  winter  evenings.  These  papers 
teach  us  order  upon  our  farms,  and  disorder  (especially 
on  our  Western  farms)  contributes  not  a  little  to  make 
our  farm  life  laborious  and  discouraging.  They  incul¬ 
cate — ‘  a  time  for  everything  and  a  place  for  everything.’ 
In  this  respect  an  agricultural,  journal,  and  above  all  the 
Agriculturist  is  an  Inspector  General,  who  cannot  come 
too  often  for  the  good  farmer,  and  whose  presence  can¬ 
not  trouble  any  but  the  negligent.  It  is  a  great  loss  to 
an  intelligent  agriculturist  not  to  subscribe  to  an  agricul¬ 
tural  journal.” 

Piinipingf  Water  from  a  Spring^. — 

“  Annapolis  ”  writes  to  the  Agriculturist :  ‘‘  I  have  a  first 
rate  spring  about  350  yards  from  the  house,  not  over  30 
feet  lower.  Could  not  I  pump  the  water  from  it  in  inch 
pipe,  without  requiring  any  more  force,  than  for  a  com¬ 
mon  well  pump?”  You  cannot.  It  will  require  much 
more  power  to  overcome  the  friction  in  a  long  tube  than 
in  a  short  one.  We  would  not  advise  to  attempt  to 
draw  water  in  this  manner,  as  it  would  be  very  hard  work 
for  a  strong  man,  at  such  a  long  distance  and  great  depth. 

Sanitary  Commission. — The  following 
sums  have  been  received  since  our  last  acknowledgment : 
Wm.  Beekman,  Sacramento,  Cal.,  50c. ;  C.  Bushnell,  N. 
H.  $1.00.  No  further  contributions  are  solicited  on  be¬ 
half  of  this  noble  organization,  as  will  be  seen  by  their 
farewell  address  of  thanks,  on  page  253,  August  No. 

To  Harden  ISoap. — “S.  M.  E.”  writes  that 
soap  made  after  the  directions  given  In  the  Agriculturist 
page  88  (March  No.)  remained  clammy  or  rather  .soft. 
Time  is  needed  for  it  to  dry  and  harden  :  the  addition  of 
salt  will  probably  bring  it  right  if  it  remains  too  soft. 


Medical  Questions. — A  number  of  letters 
have  been  received,  asking  what  will  cure  this  or  that 
disease.  Those  inquiries  are  unanswered,  because  we 
do  not  think  that  people,  as  a  general  thing,  are  able  to 
determine  what  is  the  matter  with  themselves;  anil 
secondly,  because  most  diseases  are  treated  on  general 
principles,  rather  than  with  specifics.  It  is  only  quacks 
who  use  specifics.  We  mentioned  the  use  of  blackberry 
root  in  diarrheea,  because  in  most  forms  of  that  disease 
astringents  are  beneficial,  and  blackberry  root  is  a  readily 
obtained  astringent  not  generally  known.  A’V^e  have  also 
a  great  variety  of  prescriptions  and  remedies  suggested. 
These  we  must,  as  a  general  thing,  decline  publishing. 
There  is  far  too  much  dosing  already,  and  we  do  not 
wish  to  contribute  to  its  increase. 


Yoke  for  a  Selfksuclcin;;'  Cow. — M. 

Bixter  and  others  inquire  for  a  remedy  for  cows,  addict¬ 
ed  to  sucking  their  own  milk.  In  tlie  Agriculturist  for 
1864,  page  308,  there  is  an  illustration  of  a  cow’s  tongue 
split  at  the  end,  to  prevent  her  sucking,  which  has  been 
reported  both  a  success  and  a  failure,  by  different  indi¬ 


viduals.  Tills  illustration  represents  a  yoke  on  the  neck 
of  a  cow,  which  we  never  knew  to  fail.  Four  sticks  of 
hard  wood,  A  A,  10  or  12  inches  long,  and  l‘X  inches 
square,  are  held  together  by  8  round  sticks,  B  B.  of  tough, 
hard  wood,  about  2  feet  long  1  inch  in  diameter,  tlie  ends 
being  pointed,  passing  through  the  sticks,  A  A.  These 
dimensions  may  be  too  large  for  a  very  small  neck. 
Fasten  the  round  sticks,  B  B,  in  the  desired  place  witli 
screws  %  of  an  inch  long.  Then  the  yoke  can  be 
removed,  or  adjusted  to  fit  a  large  or  small  neck. 

Fatent  Kigtots  Conflictimg-  witli 
Home-made  Conveniejices.— G.  E.  Rice.  We 
think  it  will  seldom  occur  tliat  tlie  gates,  etc.,  which  you 
wish  to  build  for  your  farm,  will  conflict  with  any  body’s 
patent-rights,  unless  they  are  really  copied.  A  careful 
examination  of  the  patent  documents,  no  matter  what 
the  owner  may  profess,  will  usually  di.«close  the  fact  that 
the  real  claim  is  for  some  feature  with  which  your  con¬ 
trivances  will  not  conflict  at  all.  You  have  no  right  to 
make  and  use  even  your  own  invention,  if  some  one  else 
invented  tlie  same  thing  before  you,  and  patented  it. 

Mr8i.  Atoei’!4  Skillful  Hoiit^ekeepeP. 

— This  book  is  worthy  of  a  place  in  tlie  hands  of  every 
housekee[ier.  It  contains  over  six  hundred  recipes  for 
cooking  and  other  household  operations,  most  of  which 
are  good  common  sfnse  to  say  the  least ;  but  aside  fiorn 
these,  the  first  .30  or  40  pages  on  general  deportment, 
practical  thoughts  on  the  care  of  one’s  self  and  of  the 
children,  servants,  etc.,  are  alone  worth  far  more  than 
the  cost  of  the  book,  which  is  $1.00.  Sent  post-paid. 

Mucilage  and  Ink.— I.  C.  Wildey.  The 
mucilage  put  up  in  bottles  is  simply  a  solution  of  gum 
arabic  in  water.  The  cheaper  kinds  of  gum  are  usually 
employed,  and  in  this  case  it  is  necessary  to  use  boiling 
water  and  strain  the  mucilage  to  remove  impurilie.s.  We 
have  used  a  small  quantity  of  creosote  to  prevent  ink 
from  moulding.  Essence  of  cloves  is  sometimes  used 
for  the  same  purpose.  A  few  drops  of  Nitrobenzole,  a 
liquid  which  smells  quite  like  oil  of  bitter  almond,  will 
entirely  prevent  flour  paste  from  moulding,  and  we  have 
no  doubt  would  answer  for  ink. 


Quasi,  sa  lor  Antsi. — The  celebrated  fruit 
grower,  Th  nas  Rivers,  slates  that  he  kills  ants  by  the 
use  of  a  decoction  of  quassia  chips.  Four  ounces  of  the 
chips,  wiiich  may  be  had  of  the  druggists,  are  boiled  for 
10  minutes  in  a  gallon  of  water,  and  4  ounces  of  soft  soap 
added.  This  is  used  to  syringe  frees  infested  by  ants, 
and  is  also  potwed  into  their  holes. 


336 


AMERICAN  ACRICULTURIST, 


[Novembek, 


Brandy  from  Sorg'lium. — A  subscriber 
asks  :  “What  quality  and  quantity  of  brandy  can  be  mada 
from  Sorghum  ?”  None  at  all.  Sorghum  would,  like  any 
other  sugar,  make  rum  or  whiskey,  but  brandy  can  only 
be  made  from  grapes.  This  manufacture  is  one  not 
within  the  legitimate  scope  of  this  journal. 

Ssi  'Fftiis  Advice  Oood  ? — “  Farmer,”  of 
Oakland,  near  Quincy,  III.,  writes  :  “  To  the  young  farm¬ 
ers  of  the  East  wh®  have  capital  and  wish  to  start  out  in 
life,  either  as  farmers  or  business  men,  the  South  and 
particularly  the  West,  is  the  place  to  go.  Missouri  is 
destined  to  be  one  of  the  Golden  Stars  of  our  Union. 
Bounded  on  one  side  by  the  Mississippi,  traversed  by  the 
ilissouri  and  other  navigable  rivers,  railroads  in  all  di¬ 
rections  and  room  for  more,  abounding  in  more  natural 
products  than  any  other  State,  central  in  position,  with 
a  soil  adapted  to  the  growth  of  every  thing  that  will  grow 
in  a  temperate  climate,  with  the  black  population  as  la¬ 
borers,  and  enterprising,  ingenious  men  from  the  Mid¬ 
dle  or  Eastern  States  to  manage,  Missouri  will  in  afew 
years  be  tlie  leading  Stale  of  tlie  West.  The  South 
affords  rare  chances  for  young  men  to  make  a  start  in 
life.  I  think  it  strange  tliat  men  will  buy  or  rent  the 
stone-ribbed  land  of  the  East,  when  land  is  so  cheap  and 
plenty  South  and  West.  Let  them  that  can't  leave  the 
East,  slay  there,  but  let  the  young  and  enterprising  buy 
landin  the  W^est,  which  in  a  few  years  willdouble  or  treble 
in  value.  Let  the  heretofore  Slave  Stales  be  filled 
with  enterprising,  industrious  and  Union-loving  people.” 

Is  the  Advice  Good? — We  say,  yes — because,  though 
the  same  thought,  energy,  capital  and  labor,  expended  at 
the  East  will  pay  just  as  well,  or  better,  yet  going  West 
wakes  up  many  an  Eastern  young  man  to  ten  times  the 
energy,  and,  of  course,  ten  limes  the  success  he  would 
ever  show  or  gain  at  home. 

Meas^irisig  C«rw  Ears. — “J.  M.  P.,” 
Ross  Co.,  O.,  can  find  the  cubical  contents  of  his  crib  by 
Rules  in  his  Arithmetic.  Then  by  instructions  on  page 
303,  October  Agriculturist,  can  ascertain  the  number  of 
bushels  in  any  crib  or  bin. 

CjJrass  asKl  Cradlle  Scytlies. — E.  W. 
Allen,  Chatauqua  Co.,  N.  Y.  The  edge  of  a  grass  scythe 
may  be  made  of  the  same  form  of  the  diagram  of  cradle 
scythes  in  the  August  number  of  the  Agriculturist. 
The  edge  near  the  heel  should  not  be  on  a  smaller  curve, 
as  the  scythe  would  cut  too  squarely  across  the  grass. 

Smwlce  lIoBise. —  “Mrs.  A.  K.”  Blair  Co., 
Pa. — Perhaps  the  simplest  smoko  house  is  the  best.  Such 
a  one  is  a  square  box,  say  Cx6  or  8x8  feet  on  the  ground, 
and  with  7  or  8  foot  posts.  Put  the  sills  on  a  brick  or 
stone  wall,  cemented  or  plastered  so  as  to  be  rat-proof. 
The  roof  really  ought  to  be  what  is  called  “  hipped,’’ 
(that  is  of  four  slopes-  a  flat  pyramid)  one-third  pilch. 
This  will  make  it  about  lOX  feet  from  the  floor  to  the 
rafters  at  the  pea'x.  The  floor  is  the  natural  soil,  it  per¬ 
fectly  dry,  or  it  may  be  of  brick.  In  the  middle  of  the 
room  there  ought  to  he  a  stone  table  2  feet  high.  This 
may  rest  on  stone  posts,  or  wooden  ones,  and  the  fire 
is  made  under  it.  It  serves  to  spread  the  smoke,  and 
prevents  the  heat  from  the  fire  affecting  the  meats  which 
liang  above  and  are  often  hurt  if  the  smoking  fire  chan¬ 
ces  to  blaze  up.  Ventilators  m:iy  be  [lut  near  the  ground 
on  opposite  sides,  and  one  near  the  top.  All  shoukl  be 
furnished  with  fine  wire  gauze  to  keep  out  the  flies.  The 
door  must  shut  very  tight,  and  ought  really  to  be  opened 
only  at  night  in  the  summer  and  autumn,  to  keej^  out  flies. 

Moving  SI  CiSrape  Tine. — G.  H.  Lincoln, 
Henry  Co..  III. — If  the  vine  has  a  single  cane  10  or  12 
feet  long,  it  should  be  cut  back,  whether  it  is  moved  or 
not.  Cut  it  off  to  within  12  or  15  inches  of  the  ground, 
remove  as  carefully  as  possible,  protect  the  stem  with  a 
mound  of  earth,  and  next  spring  allow  one,  or  if  the  vine 
is  a  strong  one,  two  buds  to  grow. 

Eatteaiing-  'I’Ujviilcsg-iving-  XurJicys-t. 

—For  each  turkey  mix  about  a  pint  of  Indian  meal  with 
one  pint  of  unbolted  wheat  flour,  and  pour  boiling  water 
on  it,  stirring  rapidly  till  it  forms  thin  mush.  Place  the 
dish  where  the  fowls  can  have  access  to  the  feed  at  any 
time.  Let  skimmed  milk  or  water  be  given  also.  In  two 
wee’xs  they  will  be  fat  and  oily  as  butter.  They  will  fat¬ 
ten  better  to  have  their  liberty  in  a  spacious  yard. 

Siclc  <J!iicltens  —  SSotip. — Many  letters 
Inquire  about  a  disease  among  fowls  which  we  are  con¬ 
fident  is  in  many  cases  the  roup.  This  is  a  highly  infec¬ 
tious,  and  often  fatal  disease,  butj'f  ttiken  in  time  ctin  bo 
cured.  The  premonitory  symptoms  tire  a  slight  hotirso- 
ness  anci  catching  of  the  breath,  as  if  from  cold.  Soft 
food  only,  mixed  wish  ale  and  chopped  green  vegel.ables 
should  be  given.  Administer  castor  oil,  say  one  table- 
spoonful,  before  any  other  medicine,  but  if  the  disease 


has  made  much  progress  before  discovery,  and  rattling 
in  the  throat  (with  discharges  from  the  eyes  and  nostril,) 
has  commenced,  stronger  remedies  must  be  used  Tinc¬ 
ture  of  iron  placed  in  the  water  pans,  is  a  strongremedy, 
and  if  the  fowl  will  not  drink  some,  prepare  half  an 
ounce  of  sulphate  of  iron  and  an  ounce  of  Cayenne 
pepper  in  fine  powders.  Mix  carefully  a  teaspoonful  of 
these  powders  with  butter,  and  divide  into  ten  equal 
parts,  one  to  be  given  twice  a  day,  each  morning  and 
evening,  until  the  complete  restoration  of  the  patient  to 
health.  Wash  the  eyes  and  inside  of  the  mouth  and 
nostril  with  vinegar.  The  disease  runs  its  course  rapid¬ 
ly.  If  the  fowl  is  not  better  in  a  week,  it  will  be  dead  ; 
whole  yards  are  often  depopulated  by  the  ravages  of  this 
scourge.  Single  cases  occur  which  are  overlooked,  and 
then  the  disease  becomes  universal  Some  think  roup 
merely  a  neglected  cold  ;  but  there  is  evidence  to  show 
that  it  is  contagious.  The  first  sufferer  perhaps  contam¬ 
inates  the  water,  and  such  is  the  virulence  of  the  malady 
that  it  often  runs  quickly  through  the  whole  stock,  and 
is  indeed  tlie  poultry  plague.  Even  when  the  fowl  ap¬ 
pears  to  have  recovered,  it  must  undergo  a  long  and  strict 
quarantine  before  it  is  restored  to  liberty.  We  do  not 
advise  this  care  to  be  given  any  but  valuable  fowls.  If 
those  of  little  value  are  attacked,  the  sooner  they  are  put 
out  of  pain  and  hidden  from  sight,  the  better. 

X^Sie  “Winte  This  has  been  so 

often  noticed  in  the  Agriculturist,  that  we  supposed  out- 
readers  knew  all  about  it.  It  is  nothing  more  than  the 
common  Rhubarb  or  Pie-plant.  Its  juice,  fermented  with 
tlie  addition  of  sugar,  will  make  a  liquid  containing  more 
or  less  alcohol.  If  any  wish  to  make  this  for  a  beverage, 
or  other  purpose,  they  need  not  pay  peddlers  a  large  price 
for  “  Wine  plant,”  when  Rhubarb  can  oe  bought  cheaply 
at  the  nurseries.  We  cannot  now  discuss  the  question  as 
to  whether  this  juice  may  safely  be  substituted  for  wine, 
but  whatever  its  merits,  let  it  stand  in  its  own  name. 
We  were  quite  surprised  to  find  the  N.  Y.  Tribune  ex¬ 
travagantly  puffing  the  thing  under  the  name  of  the 
“  Linnaeus  plant  which  resembles  the  rhubarb,  but  is  dif¬ 
ferent.”  ^is  article  could  never  have  been  seen  by  the 
agricultural  editor  of  the  Tribune,  for  he  knows  better. 
Ttie  fermented  juice  makes  a  poor  alcoholic  liquor,  which 
by  coloring  and  flavoring  may  resemble  wine,  but  it  is  a 
poor  liquor,  and  no  healthier  than  the  cheapest  whiskey, 
and  we  repeat,  that  it  is  not  worth  and  can  not  be  sold  in 
quantity  at  half  the  price  the  plant  peddlers  claim  for  it. 

XSie  S'weet  aasil  Sosir  Apple  Ag'ain. 
— W.  F.  Truesdell,  Pike  Co.,  0.,  says “  There  has  been 
considerable  controversy  in  regard  to  what  causes  the 
variety,”  and  asks  our  opinion.  We  only  know  that 
there  are  some  apples  which  become  sweeter  on  one  side 
than  on  the  other,  but  in  several  specimens  have  failed 
to  see  that  there  was  anything  like  a  dividing  line  septi- 
rating  the  sweet  part  from  the  sour.  External  lines  upon 
apples  are  not  rare,  and  are  found  upon  several  varieties. 
The  story  of  an  apple  half  sweet  tind  half  sour  having 
been  produced  by  uniting  a  bud  of  the  two  kinds,  is 
simply  an  absurd  impossibility. 

Eima,  Bca,n  iPods  Injurious  to 
Swine.— Two  or  three  correspondents  have  written 
that  the  pods  of  Lima  beans  would  kill  hogs.  We  sup¬ 
posed  that  there  must  be  some  mistake,  as  it  can  hardly 
be  possible  that  the  pod  of  this  delicious  bean  contains 
anything  [loisonous.  Mr.  J.  K.  Eby,  Ilarrisburgh,  Penn, 
has  explained  the  matter.  Mr.  E.  lost  two  hogs,  and  a 
neighbor  of  his  had  seven  die,  after  eating  the  pods.  A 
careful  examination  was  made  and  it  was  found  that  the 
sharp  hard  point  of  the  shell  stuck  in  the  throat  of  the 
animal,  causing  an  irritation  which  resulted  in  death. 

Stra'w'berry  ISumsjers. —  G.  H.  Lincoln, 
Henry  Co.,  III.,  wishes  to  know  if  the  statement  is  true 
that  the  first  two  runners  from  a  strawberry  plant  are 
the  only  ones  that  will  fruit  the  next  year.  The  earliest 
formed  runners  will  make  the  strongest  plants  and  they 
will  usually  bear  a  small  crop  the  next  year,  but  this  is 
not  confined  to  two  plants  or  any  particular  number. 

PlsiMts  Namacd, — P.  Ritz,  W.  Terr.  The 
grass  is  exarata,  ti  peculiarly  far-western  spe¬ 

cies,  related  to  Red-top.  We  shall  be  glad  to  know 

something  of  its  agricultural  value - E.  J.  Labarriere, 

Douglass  Co.,  Kansas.  Apios  tuherosa,  the  Ground-nut 
or  Wild  Bean,  common  all  over  the  country.  Some 
years  ago  an  attempt  was  made  to  introduce  it  into  culti¬ 
vation,  as  an  edible  root  under  name  of  Dacotah  potato, 
but  we  have  not  heard  with  what  success — Adda 
Maynard,  North  Lizard.  A  double  variety  of  Achillea 
Plarmica.  or  Sneezewort ;  it  is  own  brother  to  the  common 

Yarrow,  and  a  very  pretty  perennial  for  the  garden - 

M.  R-  A.,  York  Co.,  Me.  No.  1.  Lysimachiaverticillata, 
No.  2.  Dalibarda  repens.  No.  3.  Bidens  chrysanthe- 
moides.. . .A,  W,  Tabbutt,  Columbia  Falls.  No.  1.  Tri- 


/ohum  agrarium.  Hop-clover,  a  worthless  species.  No.  2, 
some  species  of  Amaranthus,  but  loo  small  and  too 
young  to  make  out;  is  a  bad  weed,  whichever  ills.... 
Judge  V’Foolman,  Woodson  Co.  Kas.  The  seeds  and 
drawing  are  those  of  Cucurbita  perennis,  common  in  the 
far  West;  the  small  bitter  fruit  is  worthless.  We  have 

seen  donkeys  eat  it  in  the  absence  of  other  food . W. 

L.  A.,  Venango  Co.,  Pa.  The  grass  is  Briza  maxima. 
Quaking  grass,  often  cultivated.  There  must  be  some 
mistake  about  its  occuring  in  the  earth  thrown  out  from 
a  well  ...M.  Crabb,  Lawrence  Co.,  Ind.  No.  1.  A 
thistle,  but  in  too  poor  condition  to  determine.  No.  2, 
is  not  a  thistle,  but  the  Wild  Teasel,  Dipsacus  sylvestris. 
....W.  J.  L.,  New  Milford,  Conn.  Gilia  tricoloi,  a  very 
pretty  California  annual,  now  common  in  cultivation. 

Xl»e  Xilfien.  Xoinato.  — This  comparative¬ 
ly  new  variety  is  held  in  high  esteem  by  the  cultivators 
near  Philadelphia.  It  is  oval  (flatwise),  very  smooth  and 
solid.  It  is  said  to  be  of  superior  flavor,  great  bearer,  and 
so  firm  when  ripe  as  to  be  very  good  for  marketing. 

Woric  Nsirsery  Ctaltssre.  — J. 

G.  Paulding  and  others.  Barry’s  Fruit  Garden  is  the 
best  work  on  the  cultivation  of  fruit  trees.  We  know  of 
no  work  solely  on  ornamental  shrubs.  Mehan’s  Hand¬ 
book  of  Ornamental  Trees,  contains  good  hints  on  forest 
trees.  The  above  are  in  our  book  list.  Dubreuil’s  Ar¬ 
boriculture  (in  French)  gives  the  details  followed  in  the 
continental  nurseries,  and  may  be  had  of  the  foreign 
book-sellers. 

Eila-cs  in  SeptenEber. — Two  little  girla 
have  written  that  they  picked  all  the  leaves  from  their 
lilac  bushes  in  August,  and  had  blossoms  in  September, 
The  lilac  knows  much  belter  about  the  matter  than  our 
little  friends  do,  and  this  unnatural  treatment  if  continued 
will  injure  the  plant.  There  is  plenty  of  work  that  they 
can  do  to  better  advantage,  such  as  trying  which  shall 
have  the  cleanest  garden  and  the  best  flowers  of  their 
kind  in  the  proper  season. 

Moot  Praiisisig'. — This  is  practised  upon 
dwarf  trees  to  keep  them  small,  and  upon  standards  to 
induce  them  to  fruit.  The  treatment  of  dwarfs  was  giv. 
en  in  January  last,  on  page  IS.  The  operation  is  per- 
lormcd  on  standards  that  have  altained  a  good  size,  but 
show  no  disposition  to  fruit,  but  the  cutting  is  performed 
at  a  greater  distance  from  the  tree,  according  to  its  size. 

A  tree  three  inches  in  diameter  may  have  the  roots  cut  at 
three  feet  from  the  stem.  Dig  out  a  trench  all  around 
at  this  distance,  cut  off  all  the  roots  tliat  are  met,  and  fill 
up  the  trench  with  rich  compost. 

Make  Ceittiiig's  iiE  AiEtiEiiiiE. — In  propa- 
g.ating  currants,  gooseberries,  quinces,  etc.,  from  cut¬ 
tings,  a  full  year  is  gained  over  spring  planting  by  plant¬ 
ing  them  in  autumn.  During  the  winter  the  cuttings 
callus  and  are  ready  to  strike  root  and  grow  as  soon  as 
spring  opens.  The  directions  given  in  September  in  an 
article  on  currants,  page  262,  will  answer  for  other  cut¬ 
tings  made  at  this  setison.  When  it  is  not  convenient  to 
plant  them  this  fall,  the  next  best  thing  is  to  tie  the  cut¬ 
tings  in  bundles  and  dip  them  in  mud  for  one  third  Iheir 
length.  The  mud  should  be  sufficiently  thin  to  coat  each 
cutting.  Thus  prepared,  the  bundles  are  set  in  a  cool 
cellar  and  occasionally  sprinkled  to  keep  the  mud  from 
becoming  very  dry.  In  spring  the  cuttings  will  usually 
be  well  callused,  ready  to  strike  root  as  soon  as  set  out. 

lEEibi'iiiation  'liVasEtcd  altont  EeiBcetti. 

— A  gentleman  proposes  to  us  a  series  of  questions  about 
fences,  which  we  pass  over  to  our  readers,  in  the  .assur¬ 
ance  that  in  the  multitude  ot  counsellors  there  is  wis¬ 
dom,  and  in  the  hope  that  we  shall  have  many  specific 
answers  with  illustrations.  The  information  elicited 
will  be  given  in  the  Agriculturist. — “  What  is  the  most 
substantial,  tasteful  and  economical,  farm  fence,  that  will 
turn  cattle,  sheep,  and  pigs,  made  throughout  of  sawed 
stuff?”  Please  answer  as  to  the  following  points: 

1st.  Depth  of  setting  and  shape  of  posts  below  ground, 
whether  square,  straight,  tapering  or  enlarging  below. 
2d.  The  hight  above  ground  ;  the  size  and  the  best  form. 
3d.  The  kind  of  timber  for  posts,  :md  time  to  cut  it. 
4lh.  Whether  to  set  them  as  they  grew,  or  reversed. 
5lh.  How  near  shall  they  stand  to  each  other. 

61h.  Should  the  bottoms  of  the  posts  be  charred,  dipped 
in  slacked  lime,  boiling  tar,  asphaltum,  or  be  prepared 
in  any  other  way  before  setting,  to  secure  durability. 
7th.  The  kind  of  lumber  for  boards  or  rails. 

8th.  Thickness  and  width  of  each  board. 

9th.  How  high  should  the  fence  be,  and  how  many 
boards  or  rails  will  be  needed  in  each  length  ? 

loth.  Should  one  be  placed  as  a  cap-rail  ;  if  so  should 
it  be  horizontal,  or  at  an  angle,  and  at  wnat  angle? 

11th.  How  many  nails  in  each  board,  what  kind  of 
nails,  and  put  how  near  the  ends  and  edges  of  the  board  ? 
12th.  Should  the  boards  be  battened  over  the  ends  ? 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ^ACRICULTURIST. 


Fig.  1. — MANNER  OF  KILLING  A  HOG. 


with  a  good  “sticking 
knife,”  about  ten  inches 
long, having  a  thin  blade, 
the  point  in  the  middle, 
and  two-edged  at  least 
two  inches  from  the 
point,  makes  an  incision 
about  two  inches  long 
just  back  of  [the  jowls, 
at  the  place  where  the 
head  is  cut  off,  (as  shoAvn 
in  the  engraving,)  exact¬ 
ly  in  the  middle  of  the 
throat.  After  the  inci¬ 
sion  is  made  at  the  place 
indicated,  he  sets  the 
point  of  the  knife  in  the 
incision,  with  the  edge 
upward,  glances  his  eye 
quickly  over  the  animal, 
to  see  if  the  knife  stands 


Killing  and  Scalding  Hogs. 

The  swine  interest  of  the  United  States  is 
immense.  One  fond  enough  of  figures  might 
go  into  an  investigation  of  the  very  inaccurate 
data  of  the  census,  (which  indeed  may  give  tol¬ 
erably  accurate  averages) ;  but  this  would  only 
astonish,  and  really  teach  nothing,  except,  as 
we  have  said,  the  immenseness  of  this  interest. 
People  will  eat  pork,  it  is  a  necessity  of  the 
peculiar  “  civilization  ”  of  a  great  part  of  our 
country.  The  hog  oecupies  a  position  in  our 
farming,  as  a  manure  maker  and  utilizer  of  all 
kinds  of  garbage  and  refuse,  and  as  one  of  the 
most  profitable  farm  products,  quite  as  promi¬ 
nent  as  pork,  hams  and  bacon  do  upon  our  ta¬ 
bles.  We  heartily  wish  it  were  otherwise,  and 
that  swine  were  banished  from  the  pale  of  civ¬ 
ilization,  taking  with  them  all  the  diseases  they 
have  induced  and  promoted.  But,  as  hogs  must 
be  killed,  they  should  be  Avell  killed,  both  for 
the  sake  of  the  hog  himself,  and  that  the  flesh 
may  be  less  hurtful  to  humanity  wdio  feed  upon 
it.  If  a  hog  be  well  stuck,  the  blood  will  al¬ 
most  all  flow  out,  thus  leaving  the  flesh  in  a 
much  better  state  than  if  the  animal  bleeds 
poorly.  The  diagram  herewith  given,  shows 
clearly,  with  a  few  words  of  explanation,  how 
this  should  be  done. 

In  killing  a  hog,  a  knife  is  simply  thrust  into 
the  throat  of  the  animal,  Avithout  making  a  large 
incision,  in  order  not  to  expose  the  flesh  to  the 
influence  of  the  hot  water  and  dirt,  while  the 
carcass  is  being  dressed.  AVhen  the  knife  does 
not  enter  in  the  proper  place,  the  animal  Avill 
be  a  long  time  bleeding,  and  much  of  the  blood 
Avill  not  flow  out  at  all,  but  will  settle  in  the 
shoulders,  thus  detracting  from  the  value  of  the 
pork.  Some  butchers  lay  the  hog  on  one  side, 
and  make  an  incision  through  the  skin,  one  side 
of  the  middle  of  the  throat,  and  thrusting  in  the 
knife,  work  the  point  back  and  forth  to  cut  the 
veins  and  arteries  near  the  heart.  This  is  a 
very  awkward  way,  and  if  the  arteries  are  really 
severed,  the  bleeding  will  be  imperfect,  as  it  will 
also  be  if  the  heart  is  cut.  Others  place  a  hog 
on  his  back,  and  thrust  in  the  knife  nearly  per¬ 
pendicularly,  sometimes  severing  the  wind-pipe, 
and  mangling  the  throat  barbarously.  Swine 
killed  in  this  manner,  are  apt  to  be  a  long  time 
dying,  and  never  bleed  well.  A  much  better 
Avay  is  to  place  the  animal  on  his  back,  letting  a 
man  stand  astride  of  him,  and  draw  his  fore¬ 
legs  back,  as  represented.  Another  lays  one 
hand  on  his  under  jaAV  and  presses  it  down¬ 
ward,  so  as  to  close  his  mouth,  and  keep  his 
flead  and  neck  in  a  line  Avith  the  body,  and 


in  a  line  with  his  body,  so  as  not  to  thrust  it  on 
one  side  of  the  veins,  (when  it  would  enter  the 
shoulder,)  and  holds  the  handle,  so  that  the 
blade  will  point  directly  towards  the  root  of  the 
tail.  Then  with  a  firm  hand  he  thrusts  the  knife 
quickly  to  the  handle,  in  the  direction  indica¬ 
ted  by  the  dotted  arrows,  and  withdraws  it  in¬ 
stantly.  If  these  directions  are  observed  to  the 
letter,  the  blood  will  follow  the  knife,  often 
spurting  several  feet  upwards ;  and  the  animal 
will  bleed  well  and  die  quickly.  A  little  practice 
or  observation  Avill  enable  any  one  to  sever 
the  great  veins  near  the  heart  every  time. 

For  scalding  hogs,  even  where  large  numbers 
are  killed,  farmers  usually  employ  half-hogs¬ 
head  tubs,  and  the  lifting  and  tugging  which 
accompanies  the  operation  are  well  characterized 
by  a  correspondent,  (Wm.  Starling,  of  Peoria 
Co.,  Ill.,)  as  “  back-breaking  Avork.”  Mr.  S. 
sends  a  sketch  of  his  hog  scalding  apparatus, 
Avhich  he  describes  as  very  convenient.  It  is  a 


staples  near  the  edge  of  the  cover  oiiAvhich  the 
hog  lies,  and  lay  the  chains  over  the  hog.  Then 
take  hold  of  the  chains  and  roll  the  hog  over, 
easing  him  into  the  vat.  The  carcass  can  bo 
turned  Avith  the  greatest  ease,  and  when  suffi¬ 
ciently  scalded,  placing  the  hooks  on  the  other 
ends  of  the  chains  into  the  staples  of  the  cover 
on  the  opposite  side,  by  pulling  upon  the  chains 
the  hog  may  be  lifted  out.  One  man  can  handle 
the  heaviest  hog  Avith  case,  AVhile  one  is  be¬ 
ing  cleaned,  another  may  be  scalding.  If  the 
Avater  is  too  hot,  add  cold  water,  if  too  cold,  close 
one  of  the  covers  a  few  minutes.  To  the  objec¬ 
tion  that  the  cost  of  such  a  vat  is  so  much  it  can 
not  be  afforded,  I  would  say  that  one  Avill  accom¬ 
modate  a  neighborhood,  and  can  be  built  by 
those  interested  clubbing  together,  or  one  might 
OAvn  the  vat  and  others  hire  the  use  of  it,” 


Preparations  for  Feeding  Sheep. 


vat  or  box  (J.)  of  boiler  iron,  6  feet  long,  3  feet 
wide,  and  2  feet  deep.  In  the  bottom  of  this 
a  frame  of  slats,  inches  thick,  is  placed.  Be¬ 
low  the  boiler  is  the  fire  place  ((7),  of  the  same 
Avidth  and  depth  as  the  boiler,  provided  with  a 
grate,  a  pipe,  (D),  and  door  E,  having  draft 
holes.  i>,  15,  are  lids  or  shutters,  made  of  wood 
and  hinged  to  each  side  of  the  vat,  and  support¬ 
ed  in  a  ■  nearly  horizontal  position,  as  shoAvn. 
F,  F,  are  chains  provided  Avith  hooks,  held  in 
position  by  staples.  The  whole  is  placed  upon 
a  pair  of  runners  to  facilitate  transportation. 

In  regard  to  the  manner  of  using  the  scalding 
vat,  Mr.  S,  says :  “  Close  one  of  the  covers  un¬ 
til  the  water  is  hot,  at  the  same  time  get  a  hog 
ready  upon  the  other  cover.  Then  open  the 
vat;  hook  one  cud  of  each  of  the  efiains  into 


When  one  has  good  hay,  straw,  comfortable- 
sheds,  and  a  supply  of  coarse  grain,  if  the  sheep 
to  be  fed  are  in  good  order,  it  is  not  difficult  to 
make  excellent  mutton.  But  if  a  farmer  has  no 
hay  for  his  sheep,  no  suitable  sheds,  but  an 
abundance  of  coarse  grain,  a  little  forethought 
and  good  management  are  indispensable  to 
render  feeding  sheep  a  paying  enterprise.  There 
are  thousands  of  farmers  who  have  straw  and 
grain  in  sufficient  abundance  to  fatten  one  hun¬ 
dred  or  more  large  sheep,  if  some  man  of  ex¬ 
perience  could  stand  at  their  sides  and  give 
them  proper  details  for  performing  the  labor. 

The  first  step  is  to  procure  the  sheep.  Pur¬ 
chase  none  but  good  ones.  Dry  CAves,  four  to 
eight  years  old,  if  in  good  condition,  are  AA'orth 
as  much  as  Avethers.  Caution  is  necessary  to 
avoid  buying  those  that  Avill  drop  their  lambs 
in  Avinter.  There  is  no  profit  in  feedjng  such 
CAves.  Never  purchase  poor  sheep.  Better  pay 
one-third  more  for  those  that  are  noAv  in  a 
growing,  tlirifty  condi¬ 
tion,  than  to  get  lean  ones. 
Aim  to  obtain  young, 
healthy,  strong  and  fleshy 
animals,  having  good 
teeth.  Old  sheep,  thin  in 
flesh  and  having  poor 
teeth,  Avill  be  found  un¬ 
profitable  for  „  mutton 
sheep  in  the  Avinter.  Such 
animals  should  be  fatten¬ 
ed  in  the  spring  and  early 
summer.  Grade  animals 
are  usually  found  more 
profitable  for  feeding  than 
full  blooded  ones.  A 
pretty  liberal  infusion  of 
Merino  blood  does  not 
prevent  the  sheep  be¬ 
ing  fed  with  profit,  though  we  much  prefer 
grades  of  the  South  DoAvns  or  Leicesters,  or  a 
cross  of  South  Downs  upon  the  Leicester,  or 
some  other  long  avooI  breed.  For  the  most 
part,  purchasers  have  to  accept  such  animals  as 
they  can  get,  for  the  reason  that  few  farmers 
alloAV  the  best  of  their  flocks  to  be  selected,  ex¬ 
cept  at  a  price  which  would  be  greater  than 
would  be  warranted  for  feeding.  Sheep  must 
be  bought  at  their  lowest  cash  value,  in  order 
that  a  fair  margin  may  be  left  as  an  equivalent 
for  the  labor  and  feed  consumed.  A  portion  of 
the  profit  will  arise  from  the  larger  quantity  of 
wool  produced  ^y  good  feeding,  apart  from  the 
value  of  the  grain  consumed  and  transformed 
into  mutton ;  while  a  still  larger  proportion  of 
the  profits  AA’ill  accrue  from  the  mamuo 


338 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Novembek, 


made  by  the  sheep.  Sheep  are  fattened  fre¬ 
quently  when  the  feeder  receives  in  return  bare¬ 
ly  an  equivalent  for  the  fodder  consumed. 
To  some,  it  appears  discouraging  to  tend  a 
flock  for  six  months,  or  more,  and  receive  no 
remuneration  for  faithful  services.  The  good 
feeder  looks  to  the  manure  heap  for  his  profit. 
He  has  given,  perhaps,  three  or  four  hundred 
dollars  worth  of  feed.  The  cost  of  the  sheep 
and  the  feed,  nearly  equal  their  present  value. 
Saving  and  applying  judiciously  all  the 
manure  that  the  flock  is  capable  of  making, 
the  amount  of  the  next  crop  of  grain  will  be  so 
much  augmented  by  the  manure,  that  a  fair 
compensation  will  be  realized  for  the  care  of 
the  sheep.  It  will  be  difficult  to  make  feeding 
mutton  sheep  pay,  unless  this  plan  of  feeding 
coarse  grain  is  adopted.  If  the  manure  is  al¬ 
lowed  to  waste  by  evaporation,  or  to  be  carried 
away  by  rain,  the  most  important  source  of 
profit  is  cut  off,  and  feeding  mutton  sheep  will 
be  abandoned  as  unprofitable.  Nevertheless, 
many  of  our  most  successful  farmers  find  this 
branch  of  farm  labor  the  most  profitable  man¬ 
ner  of  using  the  coarser  products  of  the  farm. 

After  the  sheep  have  been  selected,  arrange 
them  in  flocks  of  not  over  one  hundred  each, 
putting  those  nearly  equal  in  size  and  strength 
together.  Whenever  ten,  or  more,  small  or 
weak  sheep,  rather  thin  in  flesh,  can  be  se¬ 
lected,  confine  them  in  a  small  enclosure  where 
they  can  receive  extra  care,  otherwise  the 
stronger  animals  will  rob  them  of  their  allow¬ 
ance;  and  instead  of  fattening,  they  lose  flesh 
daily,  early  becoming  “spring  poor.”  If  no 
sheds  have  been  provided  and  one  has  straw, 
let  sides  be  made  of  two  courses  of  rails,  each 
course  laid  up  like  a  straight  fence,  set  two  feet 
apart,  and  filled  between  and  over  head  with 
straw.  Sheep  will  endure  intense  cold  if  only 
kept  dry  and  shielded  from  the  winds. 

Next  make  straw-racks  and  grain-troughs. 
When  straw  is  scattered  on  the  ground,  nearly 
one-third  of  it  is  soiled  and  rendered  unfit 
for  fodder.  It  is  always  better  to  feed  a  little 
hay  and  corn  stalks  daily,  in  addition  to  straw, 
than  to  confine  a  flock  to  only  one  kind  of  fod¬ 
der  ;  and  they  will  eat  more  straw  in  a  da}', 
when  fed  a  few  mouthfuls  only  of  hay  or  corn¬ 
stalks,  than  when  they  receive  straw  only, 
and  thqy  will  consume  a  much  larger  quantity 
of  straw  when  fed  one  pound  of  grain  with  the 
straw.  It  cannot  be  expected  that  sheep  will 
eat  straw  clean  as  if  it  were  hay,  even  when  it 
is  bright.  They  will  reject  at  least  one-fourth, 
anff  sometimes  more  than  that.  It  is  essential 
to  provide  suitable  racks  so  that  they  can  select 
the  best  portion  of  the  straw.  The  remainder 
should  be  removed  at  every  foddering. 

Grain  should  be  fed  regularly,  at  stated  times, 
and  every  animal  should  receive  not  less  than 
one  pound  daily,  which  may  all  be  fed  at  once, 
thougli  it  is  better  to  give  half  the  amount  at 
two  different  times  during  the  day — say  the  first 
thing  in  the  morning,  and  the  last  at  evening. 
Unground  Indian  corn  and  barley  may  be  fed, 
though  it  is  better  to  grind  any  kind  of  grain, 
when  it  is  not  necessary  to  haul  it  a  long  dis¬ 
tance  and  allow  too  much  for  toll.  The  best  feed 
for  fattening  sheep  is  equal  quantities  of  Indian 
meal  and  oil  meal.  When  unground  grain  is 
fed  it  will  be  good  economy  to  soak  it  at  least 
24  hours  previous  to  feeding.  The  most  conve¬ 
nient  way  of  doing  this  is  to  provide  two  or 
three  tubs,  each  capable  of  coi^aining  one  feed¬ 
ing.  When  a  tub  is  emptied  of  grain,  enough  for 
another  feeding  is  replaced.  By  this  means 
none  of  the  grain  will  be  in  the  steep  too  long. 


In  addition  to  the  grain,  every  flock  should 
have  free  access  to  pure  water,  without  being 
compelled  to  obtain  it  at  a  distance.  Roots  are 
also  conducive  to  the  health  of  sheep,  that  are 
fed  upon  dry  straw  and  grain.  Apples  are 
a  good  substitute  for  roots.  Pine  or  hemlock 
boughs  also  will  sometimes  be  eaten  with  great 
avidity,  and  tend  to  prevent  the  stretches.  Free 
access  to  salt  is  another  item  that  should  not 
be  neglected.  If  all  these  directions  be  care¬ 
fully  observed,  making  mutton  will  furnish  a 
paying  employment  for  those  farmers  who  are 
accustomed  to  do  little  or  nothing  in  winter. 


To  Husk  Indian  Corn  Quickly. 

Husking  Indian  corn  is  an  operation  that  re¬ 
quires  not  so  much  strength,  as  a  nimble  motion 
of  the  hands.  It  is  a  slow  hard  way  to  husk  while 
standing,  and  to  stoop  down  and  pick  up  one 
ear  at  the  time.  Sitting  in  a  chair  is  allowable 
only  for  the  lame,  and  the  laz}’-.  The  best  posi¬ 
tion  is  the  one  that  will  bring  a  person  nearest 
to  his  work.  After  the  stook  has  been  pulled 
down,  a  busker  should  drop  on  his  knees,  on 
that  side  of  the  stook,  which  will  bring  the  right 
hand  towards  the  huts.  Then  take  a  lapful, 
and  settle  back  on  his  heels.  A  relief  position, 
equally  good,  is  sitting  on  a  block,  or  bundle  of 
straw,  and  extending  the  legs.  Place  the  basket 
at  the  buts  of  the  stook.  It  is  desirable  to  keep 
all  the  husks  attached  to  the  stalks ;  and  those 
that  are  broken  off,  should  be  gathered  in  among 
the  stalks,  and  bound  up  with  them.  Every 
husk  and  the  silk  should  be  stripped  clean  from 
the  ears,  as  they  look  slovenly  if  left  among  the 
corn,  and  furthermore  silk  and  husks  are  very 
choice  materials  for  mice  nests.  The  hands  and 
fingers  of  a  busker  should  always  move  rapidly. 
While  one  hand  is  tossing  an  ear  to  the  basket, 
the  other  should  reach  another  stalk,  or  gather 
up  the  husks.  Two  twitches  and  a  jerk,  made 
so  quickly  that  a  bystander  can  not  discover 
how  the  ear  was  husked,  is  all. that  a  good 
busker  requires  to  strip  an  ear,  break  it  off,  and 
put  it  in  the  basket.  It  is  just  as  easy,  in  fact 
far  easier,  for  a  neat  busker  to  keep  the  buts 
of  the  stalks  even,  and  the  loose  husks  and 
leaves,  which  make  the  best  fodder,  all  gathered 
in  the  iifside  of  the  bundles,  than  it  is  to  have 
the  sheaves  long  and  misshapen. 


When  the  husks  tighll}'>  enclose  ears,  it  is 
necessary  to  tear  them  open.  If  this  is  done 
with  the  thumb  and  finger  nails,  the  fingers 
often  become  very  tender,  and  a  laborer  will 
not  be  able  to  husk  so  much  by  a  number  of 
bushels  in  a  day,  as  he  otherwise  would.  To 
obviate  such  a  difficulty,  a  husking  pin  is  em¬ 
ployed  which  is  here  represented.  It  consists 
of  a  piece  of  hard,  tough  wood,  or  iron,  about 
five  inches  long,  and  three-eighths  of  an  inch  in 
diameter,  pointed,  as  in  the  figure,  having  a 
strip  of  leather  on  it,  about  three-fourths  of  an 
inch  wide,  put  on  when  the  leather  is  wet.  Two 
grooves  are  filed  in  the  pin,  for  holding  the 
leather.  The  leather  should  be  just  long  enough 
to  slip  over  the  two  middle  fingers.  If  the 
leather  is  too  large,  it  will  be  constantly  drop¬ 
ping  off.  We  have  usually  made  the  pins  of  old 
fork  tines,  by  filing.  The  point  should  not  be  left 


too  sharp,  lest  by  some  inadvertent  motion  it 
wound  the  left  hand ;  it  should  extend  about 
an  inch  beyond  the  forefinger.  In  using  the  pin, 
hold  the  ear  with  the  left  hand,  and  with  the 
right  hand  thrust  the  point  through  the  husks, 
at  the  tip,  and  grasp  them  on  one  side  of  the 
ear  with  the  thumb  and  pin,  and  strip  them  with 
a  quick  jerk  to  the  but.  As  the  right  hand  goes 
down,  the  left  thumb  should  pass  over  the  tip 
of  the  ear,  taking  the  silk  and  the  remainder  of 
the  husks;  jerk  them  to  the  but  end  of  the  ear, 
when  the  left  hand  should  grasp  the  stem,  and 
the  right  hand  the  ear,  and  break  it  off.  The 
husks  should  extend  above  the  left  hand,  in 
order  to  protect  it,  for  if  the  corn  is  broken  off 
against  the  bare  hand,  the  flesh  will  soon  be¬ 
come  tender,  blistered  and  sore.  Some  buskers 
wear  a  leather  band,  or  glove,  or  mitten,  with 
the  end  cut  off,  to  give  the  protection  which  the 
husks  thus  held  afford.  The  chief  difficulty 
with  slow  buskers  is,  they  husk  without  any 
system — in  a  kind  of  a  hap-hazard  way;  and 
will  often  pass  their  hands  up  and  down  an  ear 
several  times  before  they  get  it  husked.  Their 
baskets  and  ears  are  too  far  from  them,  and 
while  throwing  an  ear  to  the  basket,  and  getting 
readj’’  to  husk  another,  an  expert  hand  would 
have  an  ear  or  two  husked.  Beginners  should 
be  instructed  in  correct  manipulation  when 
husking.  Then,  if  ears  do  not  break  off  hard,  a 
boy  will  husk  as  many  bushels  per  day  as  a 
man.  It  is  justas  important  to  show  boys  how 
to  excel  in  such  kinds  of  work,  as  it  is  to  teach 
them  how  to  use  the  cradle,  scythe,  or  plow. 


For  the  American  Agriculturists 

Fattening  Turkies. 


With  turkey  at  forty  cents  a  pound,  it  is  a 
matter  of  interest  to  the  farmer  to  get  as  much 
of  that  commodity  as  possible  into  market. 
This  used  to  be  one  of  the  best  of  farm  crops 
when  the  birds  were  thought  to  be  well  sold  at 
Christmas  and  Thanksgiving,  for  twelve  and 
fourteen  cents  a  pound.  It  can  not  be  any 
thing  else,  when  the  price  is  multiplied  by  three. 
Turkey  is  at  the  top  of  the  scale  of  high  prices, 
and  must  be  about  the  most  profitable  meat  we 
can  raise.  Corn  can  be  bought  for  a  dollar  a 
bushel,  and  it  was  frequently  at  that  price  when 
poultry  was  worth  only  a  shilling  a  poupd. 
Corn  will  make  just  as  much  flesh  now  as  ever. 

One  great  advantage  of  this  Idnd  of  stock  is, 
that  they  mainly  take  care  of  themselves,  and 
do  their  own  foraging.  After  the  young  broods 
are  fairly  started,  say  a  month  old,  they  shift 
for  themselves  until  the  cool  nights  of  autumn 
come  on,  when  the  fattening  process  should  be¬ 
gin.  Those  make  a  mistake  who  put  off  the 
feeding  later.  At  this  time  tlieir  feed  of  grass¬ 
hoppers,  crickets,  and  other  insects,  which  has 
so  largely  supplied  their  wants,  begins  to  fall 
off.  There  is  no  objection  to  their  roaming  still 
and  gathering  what  they  can ;  we  do  not  ap¬ 
prove  of  shutting  them  up.  This  will  do  very 
well  for  ducks  and  geese,  but  the  turkey  is  a 
more  enterprising  bird,  and  it  chafes  his  restle.ss 
spirit  to  be  confined  in  a  pen,  no  matter  how 
well  he  may  be  fed.  The  flocks  will  gather  a 
good  deal  from  the  woods  and  fields,  all  through 
October  and  November,  especially  if  mast  is 
abundant.  What  is  wanted,  is  that  they  should 
go  to  their  roosts  every  night  with  full  crops. 
As  the  insects  drop  off,  their  other  food  should 
be  increased.  At  first  they  need  only  be  fed  at 
night.  This  will  not  prevent  their  excursions 
in  the  morning.  They  will  make  for  their  fa¬ 
miliar  pastures  as  soon  as  they  leave  tlieir  perch- 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


339 


es.  Regular  feeding  will  encourage  them  to 
come  home  early,  and  to  roost  near  the  farm 
buildings  where  they  are  safest.  A  ton  or  two 
of  turkies  is  too  much  property  in  these  days 
to  have  lying  round  loose.  Encourage  them  to 
come  at  call  and  keep  the  flocks  well  in  hand. 

As  the  weather  grows  colder,  increase  the 
feed  and  improve  its  quality.  To  promote  thrift, 
nothing  perhaps  is  better  than  boiled  potatoes 
mashed  up  with  oat  or  corn  meal  and  given 
warm.  To  prevent  wasting,  these  should  be 
fed  in  troughs  made  for  the  purpose.  The  bird 
is  a  gross  feeder  and  almost  any  thing  that  or¬ 
dinarily  goes  to  the  pig  stye  will  be  acceptable. 
He  has,  however,  his  decided  tastes,  and  knows 
which  side  his  bread  is  buttered  as  well  as  taller 
bipeds.  He  has  an  eagle  eye  for  grain,  oats, 
bai’ley,  buckwheat  and  corn,  and  all  these  may 
be  given  with  decided  advantage.  His  espeeial 
weakness  is  Indian  corn,  and  his  eye  twinkles 
with  delight  at  the  sight  of  this  golden  grain. 
His  flesh  tells  the  story  of  his  keeping.  For 
the  last  six  weeks  of  his  life  he  should  be  plied 
with  corn  as  the  standard  diet.  There  is  no 
cheating  the  consumer.  A  lean  bird  is  not  the 
thing  for  forty  cents  a  pound.  Be  honest, 
give  him  a  plump  corn  fed  fowl,  and  sleep  with 
a  thriving  pocket  and  a  good  conscience,  though 
the  crib  grows  lean.  Conkecticut. 


Right  and  Left-hand  Plows. 

The  question  has  been  repeatedly  raised,  and 
is  again  proposed  by  a  correspondent,  who  asks 
which  plow  is  better,  the  one  with  “  a  right 
hand,  or  left  hand  mold  board  ?”  There  is  no 
difference  at  all  in  the  operation  of  the  two, 
when  the  mold  boards  are  of  the  same  model, 
only  reversed.  The  correspondent  alluded  to 
writes  that  he  likes  the  left-hand  plow  the  best, 
“  because  the  leader  can  travel  in  the  furrow.” 
The  leader  can  walk  equally  well  in  the  furrow 
of  a  right-hand  plow.  The  leader  is  by  no 
means  in  the  proper  place,  when  in  the  furrow, 
if  either  plow  is  in  use.  A  single  leader  should 
always  walk  as  close  to  the  furrow  as  possible. 
Then  he  will  draw  in  the  same  line  with  the 
rear  team.  Left-hand  plows  possess  no  superi¬ 
ority,  in  any  respect,  over  right-hand  plows,  nor 
are  they  inferior  to  them.  Any  supposed  superi¬ 
ority  lies  altogether  in  custom.  A  man  who  has 
always  used  a  left-hand  plow,  is  quite  disposed 
to  denounce  a  right-hand  one,  as  an  awkward 
and  ineonvenient  implement,  and  vice  versa. 


Bells  to  Prevent  Dogs  Killing  Sheep. 

O.  H.  Baker  inquires  “If  he  can  cure  his 
valuable  dog  of  a  propensity  to  chase  sheep, 
and  kill  them?”  Buckle  a  good  sized  bell 
under  his  neck,  and  he  will  never  attempt  to 
chase  sheep.  He  will  soon  learn  that,  when  he 
trots  along,  the  tongue  of  the  bell  wiil  make  no 
noise.  But,  as  soon  as  he  starts  on  a  run,  his 
bell  rings  sueli  a  loud  alarm  as  to  make  him 
desist  from  chasing  sheep.  .  v  dog  disposed  to 
kill  sheep  moves  still  and  slily,  and  a  dog  can 
not  catch  a  sheep  while  moving  on  a  trot. 
Another  effectual  way  is  to  buckle  a  strap 
around  the  dog’s  neck  with  a  light  chain  attach¬ 
ed,  long  enough  to  reach  to  his  hind  feet,  where 
it  is  fastened  to  a  round  billet  of  hard  wood, 
about  four  inches  in  diameter,  and  18  inches 
Ions:.  It  is  impossible  for  him  to  run  with  such 
a  clog  at  his  heels,  while  it  will  give  him  all  the 
liberty  that  a  dog  needs  ordinarily  around  the 
house  or  barn.  Bells  are  sometimes  attached  to 
the  necks  of  sheep  to  frighten  dogs.  This  will 
be  found  effectual  if  cow  bells  be  used  instead 


of  little  tinkling  ones  that  can  scarcely  be 
heard  when  a  flock  of  sheep  is  running  rapidly. 
There  should  be  not  less  than  ten  bells  in  a  flock 
of  one  hundred  sheep ;  and  the  feeble  sheep — 
not  the  horned  bucks  and  strong  wethers — 
should  wear  the  bells,  as  dogs  seldom  attack 
such  sheep.  The  feeble  ones  being  left  behind 
in  the  chase,  would  soon  be  overtaken  by  their 
pursuers,  and  fall  an  easy  prey,  if  the  strong 
and  swift-footed  carry  the  alarms. 


Western  Farming. 

We  have  heard  again  from  our  La  Salle  County, 
(Ill.,)  correspondent,  “  Western  Boy,”  and  are 
sorry  not  to  have  room  for  his  whole  letter, 
instead  of  seleeting  those  portions  only  which 
give  a  little  light  on  Western  Farming,  and  may 
therefore  be  useful  to  our  readers. — He  says: 

“  The  editor  seems  to  think  that  because  our 
soil  is  rich,  if  it  is  only  half  tilled  it  yields  most 
bountifully,  but  in  this  he  is  mistaken.  Crops 
here  need  cultivation  just  as  much  as  they  do  in 
the  East,  and  though  we  do  not  have  to  hoe  our 
corn,  it  is  because  we  know  enough  to  harrow 
it  just  before  it  comes  up,  and  then  we  give  it 
three  to  five  plowings,  according  to  whether  a 
man  is  lazy  or  not.  (This  is  sometimes  the  case 
with  eastern  men,  who 'will  not  plow  their  corn 
because  it  is  not  weedy.)  Do  not  think  because 
we  raise  big  crops,  we  have  no  weeds,  for  there 
are  fields  here  so  overrun  with  weeds  that  it  is 
impossible  to  raise  even  a  middling  good  crop 
on  them,  and  all  along  the  roads  and  fences, 
and  around  our  buildings  it  is  nothing  but 
weeds.  I  have  seen  weeds  that  came  up  after 
harvest,  cut  down  with  a  machine  in  the  fall 
before  the  land  could  be  plowed.  Some  men  can 
hardly  hire  a  man  to  husk  their  corn,  because 
it  is  so  weedy.  We  do  not  [any  longer?]  move 
our  stables  to  get  away  from  the  manure  as  you 
may  suppose,  but  haul  it  all  out  on  our  land. 
The  pasturage  of  our  cattle  is  defined  by  a  fence 
in  some  places  already,  but  men  do  not  think 
anything  of  driving  cattle  100  or  200  miles,  to 
the  prairie.  A  man  who  cannot  cultivate  more 
than  30  acres  here  is  called  a  lazy  scamp. — 
‘  C.  S.  W.,’  Scott  County,  Iowa,  thinks  we  do 
not  make  anything  on  our  crops.  Now  I  would 
like  to  ask  him,  how  men  who  have  come  West 
since  the  rise  in  the  price  of  land,  could  have 
bought  and  paid  for  farms,  if  they  did  not  make 
something  on  their  crops';  although  land  was 
$20  per  acre,  when  corn  was  15  cents  per  bushel, 
and  some. places  even  as  low  as  5  cents?  And 
how  does  a  man  support  a  family  of  eight  or  ten 
children  on  40  acres  of  land,  if  he  does  not  make 
something  on  his  crops  ?  He  says  we  need  infor¬ 
mation  on  as  many,  though  not  the  same,  points 
as  Eastern  men.  Now  why  don’t  he  give  us  in¬ 
formation  on  those  points  ?  He  says  we  try  to 
cultivate  too  much  land;  but  I  think  there  are 
few  who  do,  and  those  are  mostly  eastern  men 
who  think  all  they  have  to  do  out  West  to  make 
money,  is  to  plant  their  crops,  no  matter  how  it 
is  done,  and  that  they  will  grdw  whether  they 
get  any  cultivation  or  not.” 

Another  letter  on  Western  Farming  comes  to 
us  from  Scott  Co.,  Iowa.  It  thus  proceeds : 

“In  the  August  number  of  the  Agriculturist 
‘  C.  S.  W.’  gives  his  ideas,  to  which  we  take 
not  the  slightest  exception,  unless  it  be  as  re¬ 
gards  the  brag  and  boast,  and  exaggeration  of 
the  two  sections.  East  and  West.  To  our  mind, 
they  are  both  right  and  both  wrong  in  their  ap¬ 
parent  regard,  each  of  the  other,  as  a  sort  of  semi¬ 
humbug — ‘  good  enough  for  those  that  like  it.’ 
Most  assuredly  each  section  understands  itself. 


and  exaggeration  of  any  nature  will  not  ultimate¬ 
ly  avail  anything.  The  West  has  much  of  which 
to  boast,  but  it  is  a  homely  fact,  that  it  does  not 
invariably  sustain  its  boastings  in  truth  and 
practice.  The  East  has  but  little,  but  much  the 
longer  end  of  the  lever  in  fulfilment  of  its 
promises.  Hence  occasional  hard  times  in  the 
West;  invariable  good  markets  in  the  East ;  for 
many  mouths  make  the  market,  while  many 
bushels  and  railroads  combine  to  make  crops  a 
drug.  That  the  West,  in  soil,  is  immeasurably 
superior,  no  one  in  sanity  will  attempt  to  deny; 
nor  will  any  one  pretend  to  say  aught  against 
the  fact  of  the  better  eastern  farming,  care  and 
economy  in  every  detail.  Those  of  the  East 
call  us  slovenly,  extravagant,  etc.,  because  we 
do  not  rake  our  stubble,  house  our  stock  and 
implements,  and  often  turn  our  hogs  and  cattle 
into  the  standing  corn.  And  we  of  the  West 
think  it  small  business  to  grub  around  rocks 
and  stumps,  cut  hay  in  fence  corners,  and 
measure  out  oats  and  corn  to  the  horses. 
Truly  ‘  circumstances  alter  cases.’  Give  us  as 
many  men  as  we  have  acres,  and  you  as  many 
acres  as  you  have  men,  and  we  will  show  you 
a  balance  sheet.  We  can  learn,  too,  from  the 
East  many  things  that  M'e  should  know,  while 
the  East  can  learn  nothing  save  novelty  and 
machinery  from  us,  neither  of  practical  benefit. 

“And  this  fact,  ‘Western  Boy,’  does  not  seem 
to  appreciate,  for  in  the  latitude  of  La  Salle, 
Ill.,  he  does  not  care  for  the  Agriculturist,  there¬ 
fore  he  argues,  that  it  will  not  do  ‘  for  the  whole 
American  continent.’  There  are  places,  both  in 
and  out  of  Illinois,  and  we  chance  to  know 
of  several,  that  (jave  not  arrived  at  that  envious 
distinction — that  utopian  sphere,  in  which  men 
need  know  no  more — characteristic  of  his  vici¬ 
nity,  if  judged  by  his  representations.  There 
are  places  in  the  West,  where  plain,  old  fash¬ 
ioned  people,  in  primitive  ignorance,  heed  the 
teachings  of  the  Agriculturist.  There  are  sec¬ 
tions,  in  which  men  do  farm,  instead  of  scratch 
the  ground,  where  the  best  method  of  loading 
manure,  weaning  calves,  drawing  hay,  stacking 
grain,  fattening  hogs,  housing  stock,  etc.,  do  not 
come  aWiss  to  back  nor  pocket.  The  West 
need  only  take  the  advice  needed  by  it,  and  we 
know  that  even  ‘  W.  B.’  has  taken  hints  and 
ideas  from  the  Agriculturist,  of  more  than  infini¬ 
tesimal  value  to  himself.  A  lively  pieture  and 
a  true  one  is  his,  of  driving  home  the  cattle  in 
the  fall,  rolling  fat.  He  might  have  shown  you 
the  same  cattle  in  winter,  snowed  up,  shivering 
in  the  lee  of  straw-stacks,  eating  snow,  or  drink¬ 
ing  water  from  ice  holes,  or  white  with  sleetj 
picking  their  hay  from  out  the  mud  and  mire. 
The  writer  has.  seen  cattle  lying  in  their  feed 
lot,  completely  covered  with  snow.  Nature  was 
more  kind  to  them  than  the  owner.  Did  the 
AgriculUirist  never  say  anything  about  warm 
quarters  for  stock,  good  breeds,  or  economical 
feeding  ?  Did  it  never  tell  you  how  to  make  any 
simple  little  implement,  or  contrivance  to  save 
labor  or  money  ?  Did  it  never  tell  you  of  ‘  hum¬ 
bugs,’  describe  grains,  grasses,  weeds,  or  insects, 
and  did  it  never  feed  you  from  any  of  its  219  re¬ 
cipes  for  corn  bread,  etc.  ?  I  guess  it  did.  West¬ 
ern  Boj’’,  and  I  guess  it  will,  and  does,  do  for  other 
places,  besides  ‘  alongside  stone  walls,  amongst 
stumps,  ditches,’  etc. — Respectfully,  K." 


Live  and  Dead  Weight  of  Sheep. — We 
see  it  stated  that  the  following  English  rule  is 
tolerably  accurate  for  sheep  in  fair  order,  not 
very  fat.  The  weight  of  each  (dressed)  quarter 
is  one  seventh  of  the  live  weight,  e.  g.  If  a  sheep 
weighs  140  lbs.,  the  carcass  will  weigh  80  lbs. 


34.0 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[November, 


j 


Vo  o  d 


The  Associated  Dairy  or  Cheese  Factory 
System. 


^Ye  have  long  sought  an  opportunity  to  visit, 
so  as  to  inspect  somewhat  minutely,  some  of 
the  cheese  districts  where  the  Factory  system 
has  met  with  so  much  favor,  and  have  recently 
had  the  satisfaction  of  so  doing.  The  cheese 
factories  exist  chiefly  in  the  central  counties  in 
New  York,  in  those  of  Northern  Ohio,  and  to  a 
considerable  extent  in  Canada.  We  visited  es¬ 
tablishments  in  Lake  County,  O.,  a  year  or  more 
ago,  and  recently  in  Onondaga  and  Oneida 
Counties  in  this  State,  and  add  our  testimony  to 
that  of  others  in  regard  to  tlie  general  satisfac¬ 
tion  which  the  system  gives,  as  at  jn'esent  con¬ 
ducted.  The  farmers  we  conversed  with  at 
the  State  Fair  and  elsewhere,  are  agreed  that 
a  great  saving  of  labor  to  themselves  .and  their 
families  is  effected,  and  that  they  realize  larger 
and  sui’er  profits.  The  dairymen  are  well  satis¬ 
fied  with  tlieir  remuneration,  which  is  from  Ic 
to  li  cts.  per  pound  of  cheese  made,  weighed  at 
the  time  of  sale.  They  are  able  to  pay  good 
Avages  to  their  employees.  The  course  usually 
pursued  is  briefly  as  follows:  The  factory  is 
owned  by  the  dairyman ;  he  provides  the  labor 
— usually  that  of  men  and  Avomen  in  about 
equal  proportions,  including  his  own.  He  owns 
also  all  the  dairy  furniture,  vats,  hoops,  presses, 
etc.,  etc.  Those  Avho  furnish  the  milk,  provide 
all  those  articles  tliat  are  consumed  in  the  using, 
rennet,  salt,  bandages,  boxes,  lircAvood,  etc. 
These  are  bought  by  the  dairyman,  and  the  ac¬ 
counts  audited  by  a  committee  of  the  “  patrons.” 
The  milk  is  Aveighed  w’hen  received,  and  each 
patron  credited  Avith  Avhat  he  furnishes,  Sus¬ 
pected  samples  are  tested  by  taste,  color,  and 
by  the  hydrometer  and  cream  measurer.  Wlien 
the  cheese  is  ready  for  marl?et  it  ig  usually  sold 
[ly  a  conpnittee  of  tlio  {AatronSj  and  tills  js  done 


repeatedly  during  the  season. 
We  find  a  great  similarity  in 
the  construction  of  the  factories, 
though  in  some  cases  old  build¬ 
ings  have  been  adapted  to  their 
present  use,  and  are  neverthe¬ 
less  quite  convenient.  The  plan 
Avc  give  is  drawn  with  some 
modifications  from  one  which 
has  done  service  in  the  Agricul¬ 
tural  Transactions  of  New  York 
and  Maine,  and  represents  with 
sufficient  accuracy  the  general 
arrangements  of  many  of  the 
smaller  establishments  Avhich 
are  scattered  over  the  central 
counties  of  this  State.  A  good 
location  must  of  necessity  be 
conveniently  situated  in  rela¬ 
tion  to  the  farms  from  Avhich  the 
milk  is  to  come ;  and  it  must 
liavc  a  good  supply  of  running 
Avater,  the  colder  the  better, 
(for  if  sulficiently  cold  the  ice 
house  is  often  dispensed  Avith.) 

The  necessary  buildings,  or 
apartments,  for  they  may  all  be 
under  one  roof,  are  the  factory 
(A)  in  Avhich  are  the  curd  vats, 
Avith  a  press-room  {B)  attached, 
and  a  curing  house  ((7).  Besides 
these,  we  usually  find  an  ice 
house,  an  engine  room,  a  wood¬ 
shed,  and  hog  pens.  The  vats 
(F,)  are  usually  about  15  feet 
long  by  3$  in  width,  and  are  ar¬ 
ranged  conveniently  near  a  AvindoAV  on  one  side 
of  the  factory,  to  Avhich  the  milk  Avagons  can 
approach  upon  a  raised  roadAvay.  At  this  Avin- 
doAV  is  a  large  can  upon  a  platform  scales.  The 
wagons  snust  stand  high  enough  for  the  milk  to 
flow  easily  into  this  can,  when  it  is  Aveighed 
and  then  draAvn  off  into  the  vats.  TheAveigher’s 
desk  (d)  stands  by  the  side  of  the  scale. 

The  vats  are  arranged  so  as  to  allow  a  stream  of 
cold  AvatertofloAv  around  each,  which  keeps  the 
night’s  milk  cool  until  morning,  and  after  the 
additipn  of  the  morning’s  milk,  the  cold  Avater 
being  shut  off,  the  steam  is  let  on,  Avhich  rap¬ 
idly’'  raises  the  temperature  of  the  Avater  on  the 
outside  of  the  vats,  and  of  the  milk  itself  to  the 
point  deemed  most  desirable  for  the  addition  of 
the  rennet.  In  very  hot  Aveather  blocks  of 
ice  are  put  into  the  niglit’s  milk  to  keep  the 
temperature  Ioav  enough  to  prevent  cream  from 
rising,  and  to  keep  the  milk  sAveet.  The  Avater 
floAvs  off  from  the  opposite  ends  of  the  vats, 
near  the  centre  of  the  room,  and  tlie  Avhey  is 
drawn  ofl'  here  also,  and  that  from  the  vats, 
from  the  “  sink,”  (S,)  and  from  the  presses,  all 
flows  off  . in  a  channel  beneath  the  floor  to  the 
Avhey  vats,  Avhich  should  be  such  a  distance 
from  the  building  that  the  odor  of  the  sour 
Avhey  is  not  perceived.  The  floors  should  also 
be  so  constructed  that  Avater  Avill  floAV  to  the 
centre  or  to  some  scupper-holes,  so  that  they 
may  easily  bekept  sweet  and  clean.  The  “  sink  ” 
in  Avhich  the  curd  is  strained,  Avorked  and  salt¬ 
ed,  is  on  Avheels,  and  rolls  in  a  track  to  the 
presses.  The  press-room  is  connected  by  a  plat¬ 
form  Avith  the  curing  house,  so  that  the  cheeses 
may  be  moved  on  a  truck  from  the  presses  to 
the  “  racks.”  We  show  a  perpendicular  section 
of  one  story  of  the  curing  house,  shoAving  the 
cheeses  on  the  racks  or  “  ranges,”  Avhich  are  ar¬ 
ranged  as  shoAvn  in  the  plan  {('.)  A  shed  to 
coyer  the  pjilk  Avagons  iq  case  of  raiUj  is  ghoAvu 


both  in  the  plan  of  the  firctory  (A)  and  in  the 
elevation  of  the  same.  The  Avhey  is  in  part  fed 
to  hogs  upon  the  ground,  and  in  part  removed 
by  the  farmers,  each  one  being  alloAved  to  take 
a  certain  quantity,  in  proportion  to  the  milk  he 
furnishes,  or  to  keep  a  certain  number  of  hogs 
at  the  factory.  The  former  practice  is  better, 
for  the  hogs  fed  at  home  get  a  greater  variety 
of  food,  and  make  much  better  pork. 


How  to  Handle  Shovels. 


Few  men,  comparatively,  understand  how  to 
use  a  shovel  having  either  a  long,  or  a  short 
handle,  without  producing  great  fatigue  in  a 
short  period  of  time.  When  a  man  thrusts  his 
shoAml  into  a  heap  of  earth,  by  a  violent  swing 
of  his  body  and  arms,  the  fatigue  produced  by 
the  exercise  of  the  muscles,  Avhich  are  used  in 
such  a  movement,  Avill  be  greater  than  the  ex¬ 
haustion  resulting  from  the  expenditure  of 
strength  required  to  raise  the  earth  after  the 
blade  of  the  shovel  has  been  thrust  in.  The 
engraving  will  furnish  a  correct  idea  of  the  best 
Avay  to  use  a  short-handled  shovel,  in  order  to 
thrust  it  into  the  material  to  be  shoveled,  Avilh 
the  least  fatigue.  The  hand  holding  the  hilt  is 
placed  against  the  side  of  one  knee,  Avhen,  by 
simply  throAving  the  body  forward  Avithout 
moving  either  foot,  the  blade  will  be  dilven  its 
entire  length  into  the  dirt.  This  motion  of  the 
body  will  jAroduce  very  little  fatigue,  Avhen  com¬ 
pared  with  the  other  mode  just  alluded  to. 
Still,  we  do  not  recommend  working  Avith  a 
short  handle  shovel ;  it  can  be  done  with  a  long- 
handled  shovel  with  far  less  fatigue.  When 
using  a  shoA'^el  Avith  a  long  handle,  the  fatigue 
of  the  muscles  that  do  the  shoveling,  is  greater 
than  of  those  moving  the  body.  ■  On  the  con¬ 
trary,  when  a  shovel  Avith  a  short  handle  is 


used,  the  muscles  of  the  body  are  fatigued. 
Thus  the  strength  expended  in  using  a  short 
handled  shovel,  is  not  economically  laid  out,  for 
it  is  an  established  rule  that  labor  performed 
should  produce  the  fatigue,  and  nottheAvielding 
of  the  tool.  Our  artist  has  given  the  Avorkman 
much  too  short  a  shovel,  but  it  illustrates  Avcll 
enough  the  point  Ave  Avould  impress. 

m-<  ii-hOW  » 

Frost,  even  if  very  slight,  injures  squashes 
and  pumpkins.  Carrots  are  damaged  seriously 
by  a  frost  that  freezes  the  ground.  Beets  and 
rutabagas  Avill  bear  but  little  more,  losing 
especially  in  SAveetness.  Cabbages,  celery  and 
turnips  may  be  exposed  Avhen  Avater  will  freeze 
’I3  inch  thick  and  not  be  injured  unless  they  ai-q 
tljawed  out  rapidly  by  the 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


341 


Getting  Eid  of  Couch  or  Quack  Grass. 

( Triticum'  repens.) 

— • — 

L.  S.  Phillips,  Onondaga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  inquires 
of  the  Agriculturist :  “  How  can  I  best'subdue 
an  acre  now  filled  with  Quack  grass  ?”  By 
“  Quack-grass  ”  our  correspondent  undoubtedly 
means  Couch-grass,  Triticum  repens.  The  com¬ 
mon  name  accepted  by  European  and  American 
authorities  is  Couch-grass,  and  though  in  some 
localities  it  is  called  by  other  names,  such  as 
Quack,  Quick,  Quitch,  and  Twitch,  we  prefer  to 
adhere  to  the  established  name,  Couch-grass.  If 
the  grass  has  taken  complete  possession  of  the 
soil — as  it  usually  does  in  a  few  years — thus 
forming  a  tough,  thick  and  dense  mass  of  large 
roots,  the  quickest  way  of  exterminating  it 
is  the  following :  Plow  the  land  ten  inches 
deep,  in  late  autumn,  with  a  strong  plow  that 
will  turn  a  deep  and  wide  furrow. — The  plow 
should  run  beneath  most  of  the  roots,  in  order 
to  turn  up  the  entire  mass  to  the  infiuences  of 
winter.  If  the  ground  is  plowed  with  a  Michi¬ 
gan  sod  plow,  or  any  other  plow  having  a 
“  skim  plow  ”  on  the  same  beam — like  Allen’s 
Cylinder  plow — a  strong  team  will  be  required, 
as  any  plow  will  draw  heavily  when  the  share 
runs  through,  and  not  below  the  roots.  The 
plow  should  have  a  sharp  share,  and  a  long 
coulter,  with  a  sharp  point  and  edge.  Other¬ 
wise  it  will  be  impracticable  to  plow  ground 
well  that  is  full  of  the  tough  roots.  If  the 
plowing  is  not  well  performed,  it  may  as  well 
not  be  done  at  all,  because,  no  poor  plowing 
will  ever  exterminate  Couch-grass.  If  there  are 
stones  or  other  obstructions  in  the  soil  to  throw 
out  the  plow,  thus  making  balks,  the  plowman 
must  back  and  break  them  all  up. 

As  soon  as  the  young  grass  begins  to  give  a 
green  appearance  to  the  field,  the  next  spring, 
take  a  good  cultivator,  having  sharp  teeth,  and 
cultivate  the  ground  well  every  two  weeks,  un¬ 
til  it  is  time  to  sow  buckwheat,  when  three 
pecks  per  acre  should  be  put  in.  It  will  be  of 
little  use  to  harrow  the  ground,  as  harrow  teeth 
;ivijl  not  cut  off  the  young  grass.  As  soon  as 
the  buckwheat  is  cut  and  set  up  in  stocks,  cul¬ 
tivate  the  ground  twice,  thoroughly,  and  contin¬ 
ue  to  do  so  as  often  as  the  grass  grows  3  or  4 
inches  high,  till  winter.  The  stocks  of  buck¬ 
wheat  may  best  be  removed  from  the  cultivated 
ground  in  order  to  keep  the  grass  subdued 
while  the  buckwheat  is  curing. 

The  next  season,  if  much  yet  remains  in 
the  soil,  summer  fallow  the  ground,  ahd  rake 
out  the  roots  with  a  couch-grass  rake,  represent¬ 


ed  by  the  accompanying  il¬ 
lustration.  The  head  is  made 
of  a  piece  of  hard  wood,  4 
or  5  feet  long,  by  4  inches 
square ;  in  this  is  set  a 
tongue,  braced  with  two 
strong  iron  rods  to  hold  it 
firmly,  as  represented.  Some 
old  worn  out  plow  will  fur¬ 
nish  a  set  of  handles,  the 
lower  ends  of  which  should 
be  beveled  and  bolted  to  the 
upper  side  of  the  head ;  fast¬ 
en  an  iron  brace  on  the  un¬ 
der  side  of  each.  The  teeth 
are  made  of  the  best  Swedish 
iron,  I'la  inches  wide,  by  ®|8 
of  an  inch  thick,  drawn  to 
a  point,  and  hammered  to 
a  coulter  edge  on  the  for¬ 
ward  side.  The  upper  ends 
are  made  with  a  strong  nut 
and  shoulder-brace,  as  represented  by  the  en¬ 
larged  figure  of  a  tooth,  at  the  right  hand  side  of 
the  engraving.  The  teeth  are  about  ten  inches 
long  beloAv  the  head.  The  holes  for  the  shank 
should  be  bored  of  an  inch  from  the  for¬ 
ward  side  of  the  head,  and  the  holes  to  receive 
the  rounded  end  of  the  tooth  brace  should  be 
only  1  inch  deep,  so  that  the  ends  of  the  braces 
will  extend  to  the  bottom  against  the  solid 
wood.  If  there  are  roots  of  trees  and  stumps, 
or  fast  stones  in  a  field,  the  teeth  may  be  made 
heavier;  although  with  careful  usage,  the  size 
designated  Avill  make  the  rake  heavy  enough 
and  sufficiently  strong.  The  hilts  of  the  handles 
should  be  so  low  that  a  man  can  stand  erect 
and  just  grasp  them  with  his  hands,  when  the 
teeth  are  in  the  ground  and  the  end  of  the 
tongue  as  high  as  the  neck-yoke.  If  the  handles 
are  too  high,  it  will  be  much  harder  Avork  to 
hold  the  rake  and  to  lift  it,  Avhen  the  mass  of 
roots  is  to  be  dropped. 

Before  using  such  a  rake,  the  ground  must  be 
plowed  as  directed,  in  order  to  allow  the  sod 
sufficient  time  to  decay.  Let  the  roots  be  drop¬ 
ped  in  Avindrows,  and  then  raked  in  large  bunch¬ 
es.  They  contain  much  starch  and  are  excel¬ 
lent  hog  feed,  and  may  be  so  used,  or  hauled 
together  in  big  heaps  to  rot  for  manure,  in¬ 
stead  of  dropping  them  in  the  highAvay.  Where 
the  ground  can  not  be  reached,  near  stumps,  etc., 
Avith  the  horse  rake,  it  should  be  spaded;  and 
the  roots  hauled  out  Avith  potato  hooks.  If 
the  soil  is  melloAV  and  the  sod  Avell  rotted,  a 
Avheel  hay  rake,  with  iron  teeth  Avill  operate 
Avell,  though  not  as  effectually  as  the  rake 
made  for  the  purpose,  as  here  described. 

Amount  of  Seed  Wheat  for  an  Acre. 

Every  Avheat  ijlant  requires  for  its  fair  devel¬ 
opment  an  area  of  about  16  square  inches,  or  a 
piece  of  ground  4  inches  square.  There  are  in 
an  acre  of  land  43,560  square  feet.  Each  square 
foot  contains  9  of  these  4-inch  squares,  hence  is 
capable  of  sustaining  9  Avheat  plants ;  and  so  we 
have  393,040  as  the  number  of  Avheat  plants 
that  Avill  groAV  advantageously  on  an  acre  of 
good  land.  In  a  bushel  of  Avheat  Avith  kernels 
of  fair  size,  there  are  about  650,000  grains.  If 
these  be  uniformly  distributed  over  one  acre, 
there  will  be  about  15  kernels  on  every  square 
foot,  or  a  fraction  more  than  9  square  inches,  or 
an  area  of  3  inches  square,  for  each  kernel.  Did 
the  wheat  plant  produce  only  one  stalk  and 
head,  this  would  not  be  too  thick.  But,  as  we 
may  expect  every  plant  to  tiller  that  is,  produce 


from  1  to  5,  10,  or  more  stems,  if  all  these  ker¬ 
nels  should  groAV,  the  straAV  Avould  be  so  thick 
that  the  ears  of  Avheat  Avould  be  short  and  small, 
and  the  grain  also  of  a  -  diminutive  size.  But, 
in  practice,  we  find  that  there  is  a  failure  some¬ 
where;  for  if  Ave  use  no  more  seed,  the  grain  Avill 
not  stand  thick  enough  on  the  ground.  What 
then  becomes  of  the  seed? — and  Iioav  much 
must  Ave  use?  Much  depends  on  the  size  of 
the  kernels,  the  number  that  Avill  vegetate,  the 
condition  of  the  soil,  and  the  manner  of  putting 
in  the  seed.  Some  kernels  often  are  nearly 
tAvice  as  large  as  others.  When  kernels  are 
small,  of  course  less  seed  is  required,  and  vice 
versa.  If  the  grain  has  been  threshed  with  a 
machine  Avhich  has  bruised  the  kernels,  more 
seed  is  necessary  than  if  threshed  Avith  a  fiail 
or  Avhipped  out,  which  is  the  best  way  to  thresh 
for  seed.  When  it  is  put  in  Avith  a  good  dilll, 
less  seed  will  be  required  than  if  soAved  broad¬ 
cast.  When  the  soil  is  rich,  an  acre  Avill  require 
less  seed  than  if  the  ground  is  in  a  poor  state  of 
fertility,  for  the  richer  the  soil  is,  the  more  the 
plants  Avill  tiller.  One  bushel  of  good  seed  per 
acre,  Avell  put  into  a  rich  soil,  is  enough.  Mak¬ 
ing  suitable  alloAvances  for  imperfections  al¬ 
luded  to,  it  is  advisable  to  increase  the  amount 
sometimes  to  2i  bushels  per  acre.  Usually 
about  3  bushels  is  the  advisable  quantity.  If 
plants  have  room  to  tiller  when  the  soil  is  fer¬ 
tile,  thin  seeding  Avill  yield  as  much  as  thick. 


The  Stable  Brush  Broom. 


Every  man  who  has  a  stable  and  Avho  values 
neatness,  should  have  a  good  brush  broom  for 
sweeping  the  floor,  after  the  bulk  of  the  manure 
has  been  removed  with  a  fork.  The  engraving 
accompanyi  n  g 
this  article  will 
furnish  the  rea¬ 
der  Avith  a  cor¬ 
rect  notion  of 
such  a  broom. 

The  head  piece 
should  be about 
16  inches  long, 
and  11  inches 
square,  Avith  a 
rake  or  other 
handle  set  in  it. 

Holes,  bored 
alternately  in 
tAvo  roAvs,  pass 
through  the 
head,  as  shoAvn, 
and  into  each 
some  sprigs  of 

straight  bush  are  crowded,  and  fastened  Avith 
shingle  nails  driven  through  the  head.  The 
brush  of  birch  or  beech  trees,  or  of  iron-Avood, 
or  small  sprouts  from  apple  trees,  Avill  make 
an  excellent  broom,  Avhich  Avill  be  found  very 
convenient  for  many  other  purposes.  In¬ 
stead  of  the  brush,  pieces  of  small  rattan  may 
be  used.  When  the  brush  is  Avorn  out,  the  stiibs 
can  be  driven  out,  and  ncAV  pieces  inserted. 


How  to  Plow  Wet  Ground  in  Autumn. 


All  wet  ground  ought  to  be  underdrained; 
then  it  can  be  ploAved  and  worked  at  any  desir¬ 
able  time.  Through  lack  of  labor  and  means, 
it  is  seldom  practicable  to  do  in  one  season 
all  the  draining  that  should  be  done,  and  manj' 
fields  must  be  ploAved  and  cultivated  Avhere  the 
soil  is  decidedly  too  wet.  It  is  Avell  to  know 
in  what  manner  to  best  ploAV  such  Avet  fields. 


34*3 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[November, 


When  the  surface  is  nearly  level,  cut  the  fur¬ 
rows  in  the  direction  for  carrying  off  the  surface 
water'  most  readily,  or  up  and  down  the  great¬ 
est  descent.  But  when  there  is  so  much  slope 
that  the  water  will  form  gullies  by  its  rapid 
flow,  the  furrows  should  always  be  made  along 
the  side  of  the  slope,  instead  of  up  and  down, 
in  order  to  carry  off  the  water  slowly,  and  thus 
avoid  washing  away  soil  with  it. 

When  wet  ground  is  plowed,  as  it  often  is, 
without  reference  to  the  points  alluded  to,  and 
with  wide  lands,  w'ithout  opening  the  middle 
furrows,  the  soil  often  becomes  so  thoroughly 
saturated  with  water  that  it  runs  together  be¬ 
fore  spring,  like  sand  and  lime  in  mortar,  fre¬ 
quently  settling  firmer  than  before  it  was  plowed. 
Thus  all  the  efficacy  of  the  fiill  plowing  is  lost. 

The  representation  of  the  manner  of  plowing 
wet  ground  in  late  autumn,  which  accompanies 
this  article,  is  designed  to  show  how  to  turn  the  ! 
ridges,  and  the  way  of  finishing  the  middle  fur¬ 


rows,  at  a  small  outlay  of  labor,  so  as  to  effect 
partial  drainage.  When  the  ground  is  covered 
with  sod,  the  first  furrow-slice  (J.)  must  neces¬ 
sarily  be  turned  flat.  Beneath  it,  the  soil  can¬ 
not  be  broken  up.  The  second  furrow-slice  {B) 
may  be  turned  like  the  first,  though  it  is  better 
to  run  the  plow  so  closely  to  A,  that  the  slice 
B  will  lap  on  J.,  as  represented.  Now,  in  order 
to  make  the  next  slice  ((7)  fall  against  A,  at  the 
proper  inclination,  it  must  be  about  half  as  deep 
as  it  is  wide.  The  same  is  true  of  the  slice  D. 
Both  of  these  must  be  shallow  furrows.  After 
they  are  both  turned,  as  indicated,  run  the  plow 
again  in  the  same  furrows,  in  order  to  make 
them  as  deep  as  the  ground  is  to  be  plowed. 
The  ridge  is  now  laid  out,  and  the  furrow  is 
prepared  to  receive  the  slices  {E,  F)  of  full  size, 
at  about  the  inclination  and  lap  shown.  Now 
adjust  the  plow  to  cut  half  as  deep  as  the  width 
of  the  slices.  This  size  of  slice  will  turn  well. 
The  ridges  should  be  formed  from  15  to  20  feet 
wide ;  and  when  the  lands  are  marked  out,  the 
distance  should  be  measured  with  a  pole,  at 
both  ends,  so  that  the  plot  will  “  finish  up  ” 
evenly,  without  some  furrow-slices  running  out, 
which  would  prevent  doing  the  work  neatly. 

In  finishing  a  land,  leave  a  strip  of  unplowed 
ground  about  nine  inches  wide,  the  entire  length 
of  the  middle  furrow.  Then  remove  the  gauge 
wheel,  and  adjust  the  plow  to  run  an  inch 
deeper  than  usual.  Always  turn  this  last  fur¬ 
row-slice  when  the  team  travels  down  the  slope, 
as  it  will  roll  over  much  more  readily  when  the 
plow  is  going  down  hill.  The  same  is  true  of  the 
slice  i?,  which  is  more  difficult  to  turn  than  A. 
If  a  plowman  desires  to  make  a  neat  job,  he  must 
observe  these  apparently  unimportant  rules. 

After  the  lands  are  finished,  run  the  plow 
two,  three,  or  more  times,  as  needed,  in  each 
dead  furrow,  turning  the  earth  towards  the 
ridges,  for  the  purpose  of  deepening  the  chan¬ 


nel  for  carrying  off  the  water.  After  the  plow¬ 
ing  is  finished,  shovel  out  the  loose  earth,  scat¬ 
tering  it  over  the  ridges  on  each  side,  like  a 
top-dressing.  These  dead  furrows  should  be 
kept  open  nntil  the  next  spring;  and  if  the 
ground  should  be  plowed  again,  plow  length¬ 
wise  of  the  ridges.  If  the  sod  is  not  thorough¬ 
ly  rotted,"  use  the  cultivator  only,  without  at¬ 
tempting  to  plow  the  ground.  By  keeping  these 
dead  furrows  well  shoveled  out,  so  that  the 
water  will  settle  into  them  and  run  off  quickly; 
wet  ground  may  be  tilled  much  earlier  in  spring, 
and  cultivated  in  a  much  more  satisfactory 
manner,  than  if  plowed  in  the  usual  way. 

Burying  Boots  in  a  Pit. 

The  most  convenient  way  to  secure  turnips, 
carrots,  and  potatoes  during  winter  is,  to  make 
an  excavation  near  a  good  underdrain,  or  on 
some  dry  knoll,  where  no  water  will  stand,  even 
at  those  seasons  of  the  year 
when  the  ground  is  very  wet, 
and  after  filling  the  pit,  and 
heaping  the  roots  up  in  a 
sharp  ridge,  to  cover  the 
whole  with  straw,  boards 
and  earth.  The  excavation 
should  be  about  4  or  5  feet 
wide,  from  one  to  two  feet 
deep,  according  to  the  drain¬ 
age,  and  of  the  needed  length. 
Our  practice  has  been  to 
make  the  pit  parallel,  and 
close  to  a  tile  drain,  which 
will  carry  away  all  the  wa¬ 
ter.  The  pit  may  be  directly 
over  a  tile  drain ;  but,  if  the  drain  is  made  with 
stones,  the  pit  should  be  so  far  from  the  drain, 
that  rats  and  mice  can  not  dig  upwards  from 
the  drain  into  the  pit,  and  haul  down  earth 
so  as  to  obstruct  the  watercourse.  If  a  drain 
is  2^  feet  deep,  the  pit  may  be  dug  2  feet  deep. 

The  illustration  represents  a  transverse  sec¬ 
tion  of  a  pit  of  carrots,  piled  as  steeply  as  they 


will  lie  conveniently.  A  layer  of  straw  about 
4  inches  deep  has  been  spread  evenly  over 
the  roots,  and  then  the  whole  covered  with 
boards,  as  shown.  Another  layer  of  straw  and 
a  thin  covering  of  earth  are  put  on  to  secure 
them  till  the  ground  freezes,  after  which  the 
earth  should  be  increased  to  not  less  than  6 
inches  deep  over  the  entire  pit,  to  keep  the 
roots  from  freezing  in  our  latitude.  In  some 
localities,  the  earth  should  be  hot  less  than  one 
foot  deep.  If  animals  of  any  kind  disturb  the 
earth  on  the  pit,  cover  it  with  pieces  of  old  rails, 
etc.  “We  cut  the  boards,  nailing  them  at  the 
top  as  indicated  by  the  figure,  so  that  all  the 
roots  may  be  I'emoved  at  one  end  of  the  pit, 
one  load  at  a  time,  in  winter,  without  exposing 
those  til  at  remain  to  the  frost.  "We  formerly 


placed  ventilators  6  feet  apart,  in  the  tops  of 
long  pits,  and  also  made  pits  without  ventila¬ 
tors,  but  were  never  able  to  perceive  any 
difference  in  the  vegetables  when  taken  out. 

- - - i  ■  — - 

Potatoes  Planted  under  Straw,  in  both 
Autumn  and  Spring.— The  Crop  doubled. 

In  a  letter  containing  many  good  hints  for  us 
and  our  readers,  Mr.  Isidor  Plaquet,  of  Madison 
Co.,  Ill.,  makes  some  very  interesting  statements 
about  his  method  of  raising  potatoes,  which  we 
translate  from  the  French,  in  which  our  cor¬ 
respondent  writes  most  conveniently : 

“  I  have  devoted  myself,”  he  goes  on  to  say,  “  to 
the  culture  of  potatoes  for  the  past  ten  years,  and 
for  the  past  three  years  have  grown  them  only 
under  straw  and  with  great  success.  We  in  the 
West  have  a  great  deal  of  straw  which  we  have 
been  accustomed  to  burn,  and  I  have  found  this 
means  of  using  it  profitable.  I  plant  a  part  of 
my  potatoes  late  in  autumn,  in  November  if 
possible,  and  the  rest  in  spring.  When  I  thresh 
my  wheat,  I  do  not  stack  the  straw,  for  the 
moister  it  is  the  better,  even  if  decayed,  and  draw 
it  near  the  place  where  I  shall  plant  potatoes. 
Those  planted  in  autumn  and  those  planted  in 
spring  are  side  by  side,  separated  sufficiently  to 
allow  a  wagon  to  pass  between.  I  Tiever  burn 
straw.  When  I  plant  in  autumn,  I  have  only  to 
draw  the  old  straw  to  one  side;  if  it  is  too  rot¬ 
ten,  I  plow  it  in,  as  it  is  good  manure.  When 
there  is  not  sufficient  old  straw,  I  add  new.  In 
autumn  I  cover  the  potatoes  2  to  4  inches  deep, 
never  less  than  2,  and  I  place  over  them  two 
feet  of  straw,  well  trodden  down ;  then  some 
sticks  are  put  here  and  there  npon  the  straw  to 
keep  high  winds  from  blowing  it  away. 

“  Planting  in  spring,  I  cover  the  potatoes 
about  an  inch,  and  put  on  one  foot  of  straw,  as 
is  done  b\''  H.  Holbrook,  whose  report  was  giv¬ 
en  in  the  Agriculturist  for  January,  1865.  I 
choose  for  my  potatoes  a  field  with  a  gentle  in¬ 
clination,  so  that  they  will  not  rot,  and  a  south¬ 
ern  exposure,  if  possible,  for  those  planted  in 
autumn.  I  plant  in  beds  only  3  or  4  yards  wide, 
the  beds  separated  sufficiently  to  allow  a  cart  to 
pass  between  them.  This  is  in  order  not  to  be 
obliged  to  pass  over  them  with  teams,  as  that  is 
very  injurious  to  potatoes  planted  under  straw. 
I  pulverize  the  earth  thoroughly,  and  then  plow 
furrows  as  close  as  I  can  and  not  have  them 
interfere.  I  drop  the  potatoes  about  6  inches 
apart  and  cover  with  the  hoe.  It  is  not  well  to 
delay  putting  on  the  straw  ;  a  rain  may  come 
and  harden  the  soil,  and  the  lighter  this  is  kept 
tlie  better  for  the  potatoes.  In  autumn  we  only 
lift  the  straw  with  a  fork  and  fill  the  baskets. 

“What  are  the  advantages  of  this  method? 
Quantity  and  quality  vary  with  me  as  well  as 
with  those  who  follow  the  old  method,  but  to 
say  I  get  regularly  about  as  much  again  as  by 
the  old  plan,  is  not  an  exaggeration.  In  times 
of  drouth  one  is  certain  to  have  a  crop,  if  he  has 
not  been  too  sparing  of  the  straw.  Last  year 
(1864)  almost  all  my  neighbors  who  did  not 
plant  under  straw  had  no  potatoes  on  account 
pf  the  drouth,  while  upon  about  half  an  acre 
(a  part  of  which  were  planted  in  November, 
1863,  and  the  others  in  the  spring  of  1864)  I 
harvested  80  bushels  of  the  finest  potatoes,  not 
counting  those  which  had  been  used  for  the 
table,  from  the  middle  of  June  until  autumn. 
Those  of  this  year  (1865)  are  doing  well,  not¬ 
withstanding  the  rain.  In  fall  planting  there 
are  two  causes  of  failure :  under  an  insufficiency 
of  straw  the  potatoes  will  freeze,  and  they  will  rot 
if  planted  in  low  ground.  Last  fall  I  made  an 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST 


343 


experimeut,  using  one  foot  of  straw  at  one  end 
of  my  field.  The  potatoes  were  almost  all 
frozen,  while  those  escaped  which  were  covered 
with  two  feet  of  straw.  The  preceeding  autumn 
I  used  only  a  foot  of  straw  and  the  potatoes 
Avere  not  frozen,  but  the  straw  was  fine,  having 
been  used  before,  and  the  abundant  snow  kept 
the  cold  from  penetrating.  There  is  no  risk  in 
using  2  feet  of  straw  well  trodden  down  (old 
straw  is  preferable).  Make  a  good  furrow  on 
each  side  of  the  field  to  carry  off  the  water,  and 
connect  the  furrows  across  at  the  upper  part  of 
the  field.  There  is  no  danger  if  the  earth  is 
dry  when  you  plant,  and  is  not  too  much  trod¬ 
den.  They  are  more  difficult  to  dig  than  those 
planted  in  spring,  but  there  are  more  of  them.” 

- -  ■  iMOl- - -  «■ 

Binding  the  Shocks  of  Corn  Fodder. 


»  After  the  ears  have  been  husked,  and  the 
stalks  bound  in  sheaves,  and  set  up  in  round 
shocks,  it  is  difficult  to  bind  them  as  tightly  as 
the  tops  should  be  to  turn  rain  well.  To  facili¬ 
tate  this  operation,  Ave  have  been  accustomed 
to  use  a  shock  binder,  represented  by  the  figure. 
This  consists  of  a  strip  of  hard  Avood  (A),  20 
inches  long,  1  inch  thick,  and  4  inches  wide. 
At  each  end  of  A,  an  inch  hole  is  bored  for  a 
rope  (C),  about  11  feet  long,  and  ^[4  of  an  inch 
in  diameter.  A  knot 
in  one  end  prevents 
it  slipping  through 
the  hole.  A  wind¬ 
lass  (B)  is  made  of 
a  piece  of  hard  and 
tough  wood,  2‘|3 
feet  long,  turned  or 
shaved  round,  and 
pointed,  as  repre¬ 
sented  by  the  figure. 
The  largest  part  of 
the  tapered  portion 
of  the  windlass 
should  be  I'ja  inches  in  diameter,  made  to  turn 
easily,  but  fitting  closely  in  a  hole  in  the  middle 
of  the  piece  A ;  the  crank  should  be  about  one 
foot  long.  In  use,  put  the  piece.  A,  against 
the  side  of  the  shock  whei’e  it  is  to  be  bound. 
Thrust  the  windlass  through  the  hole  in  the 
same,  and  horizontally  into  the  stalks.  Then 
carry  the  end  of  the  rope  around  the  shock,  put 
it  through  the  hole  in  the  end  of  A,  wrap  it 
around  the  end  of  the  crank  andAvind  it  up  un¬ 
til  tight  enough.  Fasten  the  crank  with  a  cord 
to  the  end  of  A,  and  bind  the  shock  with  a 
straw  band,  Avhich  Avill  hold  the  stalks  after  the 
rope  is  removed,  although  it  Avould  not  be  sti'ong 
enough  to  draAV  them  up  as  tightly  as  the  rope 
Avill.  Two  or  thi'ee  other  bands  should  then  be 
put  on  above  this,  which  can  be  draAA'u  up 
sufficienlly  tight  without  the  windlass. 


Storing  Unthresked  Buckwheat. 


Sometimes  buckwheat  cannot  all  be  secured 
before  the  middle  of  November,  or  even  later. 
The  weather  is  so  unfavorable  that  it  is  im¬ 
practicable  for  some  farmers,  Avith  their  limited 
helpers,  to  thresh  more  than  a  small  portion  of 
their  crop,  before  long  storms  of  rain,  and  some¬ 
times  snow,  will  interrupt  threshing  in  the  field. 
When  there  is  an  abundance  of  barn  room,  as 
soon  as  the  straw  is  sufficiently  cured  and  dry, 
a  good  way  is,  to  get  in,  in  one  day,  much  more 
than  can  be  threshed,  to  put  it  in  a  moAv,  or 
hay  loft,  and  let  it  remain  there  till  a  cold,  freez¬ 
ing  day  in  winter,  when  the  grain  Avill  thresh 


perfectly  well.  Should  there  be  a  few  bunches 
which  are  not  cured  sufficiently  to  be  put  in  a 
large  mow,  they  should  be  pitched  on  a  scaffold 
over-head,  where  they  will  cure  without  injur¬ 
ing  the  grain.  The  better  way,  however,  is,  to 
,sort  the  stooks  or  bunches  in  the  field,  leav¬ 
ing  those  that  are  not  thoroughly  cured  for  the 
top  of  the  mow,  or  one  load  may  be  put  in 
on  poles,  or  timbers  resting  on  the  large  beams 
of  the  barn.  As  there  is  a  much  larger  quan¬ 
tity  of  succulent  matter  in  buckwheat  straw 
than  in  the  straw  of  other  grain,  the  middle  of 
the  bunches  must  be  examined  carefully  to  see 
that  the  straw  is  well  cured,  or  the  mow  will 
heat  and  spoil  the  grain.  When  there  is  not 
barn  room,  buckwheat  may  be  stored  in  long 
stacks,  say  10  to  12  feet  wide,  covered  with  a 
roof  of  boards  slanting  only  in  one  direction. 
When  a  mow  or  stack  is  more  than  ten  feet 
wide,  if  there  is  any  apprehension  that  the 
straw  will  heat,  a  number  of  ventilating  holes 
should  be  made  in  various  parts  of  the  mow. 
This  may  be  done  by  placing  barrels  where 
ventilators  are  required,  which  may  be  drawn 
upwards  half  their  length,  as  often  as  the  sur¬ 
face  of  the  mow  is  even  with  the  top  end  of  the 
barrels.  Should  the  moAV  rest  on  a  tight  floor, 
a  board  may  be  taken  up,  a  hole  sawed  through 
it,  or  several  2-inch  holes  bored,  through  which 
a  current  of  air  may  rise  in  the  ventilators,  and 
thus  carry  away  the  dampness  that  would  ac¬ 
cumulate  in  the  middle  of  the  mow. 


Breeding  Trout. 


The  article  on  trout  breeding  last  month,  in 
which  our  artist  and  engraver  did  themselves 
so  much  credit  by  the  beautiful  portraits, 
was,  as  it  happened,  brought  to  a  very  sudden 
termination.  Nevertheless,  it  must  have  served 
to  aAvaken  interest  in  many  minds  in  this,  which 
bids  fair,  in  good  locations,  to  become  a  very 
profitable  industry.  The  observations  which 
form  the  basis  of  the  article  in  the  last  number, 
and  of  this,  were  made  at  an  establishment  of 
comparatively  recent  date,  but  yet  the  success 
of  Avhich  Avarrants  all  we  have  said.  We  may 
add,  that  the  ponds  are  well  adapted  to  the 
sport  of  fly  fishing,  and  this  privilege  is  let  to  a 
Waltonian  Club,  for  a  very  handsome  sum  an¬ 
nually — the  amount  of  fish  Avhich  may  be  taken 
monthly  being  limited  to  a  reasonable  num¬ 
ber,  and  the  sportsmen  required  to  fish  only  in 
certain  parts  of  the  pond,  and  we  believe  re¬ 
stricted  to  fly-fishing.  The  income  received  not 
only  covers  all  current  expenses  and  improA'e- 
ments,  but  has  already  gone  far  towards  reim¬ 
bursing  the  original  outlay.  This  fact  is 
mentioned  that  it  may  encourage  private  action, 
by  the  anticipation  of  a  good  income  from  this 
source,  and  also  that  qlubs  may  take  the  matter 
in  hand  and  secure  for  their  members  and 
friends  an  agreeable  and  exciting  sport,  to  say 
nothing  of  the  hundreds  of  pounds  of  this  most 
delicious  fish  that  might  find  their  Avay  to 
market  at  50  cts.  per  pound,  which  is  the  pre¬ 
sent  price  in  this  city. 

A  particular  description  of  the  trout  is  un¬ 
necessary.  All  fish  of'  the  genus  Salmo,  of 
which  the  noble  Salmon  {Salmo  salar)  is  the  type, 
may  be  readily  distinguished  by  the  soft,  fleshy, 
rayless  fin  between  the  dorsal  or  back  fin  and 
the  tail.  They  are  without  exception  excellent 
table  fish,  but  in  this  respect  none,  not  even  the 
salmon,  excels  the  brook  trout  {Salmo  fontinalis) 
which  is,  in  our  opinion,  the  best  of  all  fish. 

We  ought  to  say  something  of  the  enemies  of 
the  trout  and  of  the  trout  breeder'  First,  poach¬ 


ers — these  must  be  summarily  dealt  Avith,  and  if 
the  law  can  not  be  brought  to  bear  to  check 
depredations,  then  with  dogs,  man-traps,  etc., 
every  man  has  a  right  to  protect  himself.  Next, 
muskrats  often  do  great  mischief  to  the  dams, 
embankments,  and  probably  also  to  the  fish, 
sluggish  and  benumbed  by  the  cold  in  winter. 
■Aquatic  fowls  of  all  kinds — ducks,  and  all  the 
waders,  snipe,  herons,  etc. — must  be  entirely  ex¬ 
cluded  from  the  breeding  ditches.  This  at  the 
ponds  referred  to,  is  done  by  covering  the  ditch¬ 
es  with  brush  ;  lattice-work  of  laths  answers  a 
good  purpose,  and  both  afford  that  great  desid¬ 
eratum,  partial  shade  and  seclusion  during  the 
breeding  season.  Eels  are  very  destructive  of 
the  spawn  and  young  fry,  and  they  must  be 
excluded  from  the  ponds  and  reserves  at  all  haz¬ 
ards,  Doubtless,  also,  catfish,  mudpouts  or  bull¬ 
heads,  as  they  are  variously  called,  would  be 
almost  equally  injurious.  Mr.  F.  has  found 
that  certain  water  beetles  catch  and  devour 
many  young  fish,  and  they  are  assisted  by  the 
larvae  of  the  dragon  flies,  and  perhaps  other  in¬ 
sects  which  are  common  in  clear  streams. 

We  may  perhaps  learn  as  well  from  our  friend’s 
mistakes  as  from  his  successes.  It  is  quite  im¬ 
portant  that  there  should  be  natural  shade 
upon  the  brooks  and  ponds  during  the  summer, 
otherwise  the  water  becomes  warm  and  uncon¬ 
genial  to  the  fish,  and  a  certain  rank  vegetation, 
called  Frogspittle,  springs  up  in  the  shallow 
and  warm  parts.  The  most  agreeable  shade  is 
that  of  forest  trees,  but  unfortunately  Mr.  F. 
cut  these  all  off  in  clearing  up  and  grading 
about  his  ponds,  so  that  noAV  he  is  temporarily 
supplying  shade  by  means  of  Avhite  water  lilies, 
planted  in  the  shallow  parts,  and  near  the  edges. 
By  these  he  Avill  probably  gain  both  ends — viz. : 
shade  and  a  cooler  temperature,  with  the  ex¬ 
pulsion  of  the  frogspittle  and  similar  plants. 

■  ■  ■  — — »  »■ 

Labor  Saving— Labor  Making. 

Labor  saving  implements  were  once  thought 
to  be  destructive  to  the  interests  of  the  working 
man,  just  in  proportion  as  they  saved  the 
drudgery  of  labor.  This  seems  reasonable  at 
first,  but  a  little  thought  will  correct  the  er¬ 
ror.  How  then  do  the  farm  laborers,  thrown 
out  of  Avork  by  the  introduction  of  impi-oved 
implements,  ultimately  find  work  ?  Plainly  by 
the  increased  amount  of  tillage  which  horse 
poAver,  machinery  and  tools  make  possible  in 
the  country.  In  a  section  where  all  the  soil  is 
under  cultivation  of  some  kind,  it  Avill  lead  to 
more  thorough  systems  of  farming.  In  the  case 
of  our  OAvn  Country,  it  leads  to  the  faster  ex¬ 
tension  of  civilization  westAvard,  the  rapid  sub¬ 
jugation  of  Avild  lands,  and  the  better  cultivation 
of  that  already  mider  the  plow.  For  instance, 
the  Western  grain  groAver,  who  now  devotes 
75  to  150  acres  to  corn  and  other  grain  crops, 
with  the  meager  facilities  of  thirty  years  ago, 
could  not  have  managed  one-fourth  part  that 
amount  in  a  similar  manner.  This  increase  of 
agriculture,  not  only  keeps  good  the  origmal 
number  of  farm  laborers,  but  creates  a  neAv  de¬ 
mand  for  laborers  in  every  other  field  of  in¬ 
dustry.  More  ships  and  railroads  are  required 
for  transportation,  more  manufacturing  estab¬ 
lishments,  more  mechanics  to  construct  these, 
and  men  to  manage  them,  more  miners,  machin¬ 
ists,  etc.  In  fact,  the  whole  body  politic  thus 
receives  vital  refreshment  from  every  really 
labor-saving  invention.  This  is  a  forcible  illus¬ 
tration  of  the  fact  that  whatever  fairly  ad¬ 
vances  the  interests  of  one  class,  becomes  a 
benefit  to  all  classes  in  the  community. 


34dr  AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST.  [November, 


EXAMINING  ANIMALS  AERIVING  AT  MARKET.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


Inspection  of  Animals  Destined  for 
Slaughter. 

The  spirited  engraving  which  we  here  pre¬ 
sent  is  of  a  scene  which  occurs  nowhere  in  this 
country.  It  represents  a  quay  in  London,  where 
cattle  from  the  crowded  barges  in  the  river 
are  l)eing  landed,  and  each  one,  as  it  arrives 
upon  the  dock,  undergoes  the  careful  examina¬ 
tion  of  the  veterinary  inspector.  Tlie  preva¬ 
lence  of  the  cattle  plague  excites  interest  in  this 
subject  in  the  public  mind,  and  so  the  Illus¬ 
trated  London  News,  from  which  we  copy  the 
picture,  takes  this  ojjportunity  to  show  its  read¬ 
ers  what  the  system  of  inspection  is  and  how  it 
Avorks.  To  us  in  America  it  serves  as  a  remind¬ 
er  that  here  Ave  have  nothing  of  the  kind,  except 
the  vague  fear  of  punishment  for  committing 
certain  very  illy  defined  crimes,  provided  they 
be  proved  to  have  been  wilfully  committed, 
Avhich  it  is  very  hard  to  do. 

We  have  no  doubt,  indeed  Avehave  the  knoAvl- 
edge,  that  cattle,  sheep  and  swine  exhausted  by 
cruel  treatment,  lack  of  Avater  or  food,  hard 
driving,  etc.,  or  sick  from  any  cause,  and  likely 
to  die,  arc  killed,  and,  if  the  blood  Avill  only 
hoAV,  their  ficsli  is  sold  in  the  open  market.  To 
the  dishonest  butcher  or  drover,  Avhile  life  re¬ 
mains  there  is  hope,  and  this  hope  is  not  ahvays 
extinguished  by  the  (nn)natural  death  of  the  poor 
famished,  heated  exhausted  beast,  for  there  is 
many  a  low  meat  store  in  this  city  Avhere  fresh 
meat,  full  of  blood,  and  fairly  oozing  disease  at 


every  pore,  may  be  seen  offered  for  sale.  Nor 
is  it  only  in  our  large  cities  that  this  great 
Avrong  exists,  for  Avhere  hogs  are  driven  in  on 
foot  from  the  country  surrounding  some  of 
the  great  packing  houses  at  the  West,  wag¬ 
ons  follow  the  drove,  and  the  Aveak  are  picked 
up,  the  dying  killed  and  taken  up  also,  and 
the  dead  undergo  the  farce  of  throat  cutting, 
etc.,  and  are  cared  for  in  the  same  waj^  No 
doubt,  also,  all,  in  the  shape  of  extra  or  prime 
mess  pork,  are  finally  eaten — Avith  what  conse¬ 
quences  no  one  can  accurately  determine. 

The  need  of  Avell  educated  veterinarians  is 
becoming  daily  more  urgent,  that  AA'hen  public 
opinion  is  educated  up  to  demanding  the  thor¬ 
ough  inspection  of  animals  destined  for  slaugh¬ 
ter,  the  men  may  be  upon  the  ground.  This 
giAms  us  another  opportunity  to  commend  the 
profession  of  the  veterinary  surgeon  to  young 
men  Avho  are  making  choice  of  an  employment, 
for  Avhich  a  course  of  study  is  essential,  and 
Avhere  honor  and  profit  AvilLreAvard  application. 

Well-bred  Animals. 

One  of  the  advantages  of  thorough-bred  stock 
is,  that  it  furnishes  the  breeder  a  foundation  so 
to  speak,  upon  Avhich  he  can  gradually  build  up 
a  flock  or  herd  to  his  OAvn  ideal  of  useful¬ 
ness.  In  thorough-bred  animals  certain  pre¬ 
vailing  characteristics  have  become  so  strong-  ' 
ly  developed  and  thoroughly  confirmed,  that  1 


the  transmission  of  them  to  their  posterity  be¬ 
comes  almost  an  absolute  certainty.  There  [is 
no  danger  therefore,  in  their  case,  of  losing 
these  general  excellences,  while  the  undesirable 
qualities  are  being  sloAvly  but  surely  bred  out 
by  a  judicious  pairing  of  animals.  The  princi¬ 
ples  of  good  breeding  depend  upon  the  simple 
law  “  that  like  begets  like.”  The  same  peculi¬ 
arity  existing  in  both  parents,  Avill  almost  cer¬ 
tainly  exhibit  itself  in  the  offspring,  perhaps  still 
more  conspicuously.  If  the  parents  possess  di¬ 
verse  or  opposite  qualities,  other  things  being 
equal,  the  offspring  may  be  expected  to  repre¬ 
sent  the  mean.  By  the  use  of  these  simple 
principles,  wonderful  changes  can  be  wrought 
in  any  kind  of  stock,  without  going  outside  of 
its  OAvn  variety,  or  even  family.  In  this  man¬ 
ner,  the  Spanish  sheep  have  been  changed  in 
their  many  essential  features  by  breeders  in  this 
country.  By  a  similar  process  we  knoAV  that 
BakeAvell,  of  England,  gave  to  the  Leicesters 
their  peculiar  merit  as  mutton  sheep,  and  in  like 
manner,  cattle,  hogs,  poultry,  and  other  kinds 
of  domestic  animals  have  been  bred  so  as  to 
form  varieties  Avith  fixed  characteristics.  On 
the  other  hand,  let  the  attempt  be  made  with 
mongrels,  and  the  breeder  can  not  be  sure  that 
the  characteristics  of  either  parent  Avill  appear 
in  the  offspring;  or  that  the  increase  of  differ¬ 
ent  years  Avill  bear  any  great  resemblance  to 
each  other.  All  hopes  therefore,  of  establishing 
a  desirable  uniformity  in  stock  in  this  case,  are 
at  an  end,  or  at  least  vejy  difficult  of  realization. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


845 


The  American  Yew,  or  Ground  Hemlock. 

Tams  baccata,  var.  Canadensis. 

The  European  Yew  in  its  different  varieties 
is  well  known  to  all  lovers  of  Evergreens.  In 
Europe  it  is  one  of  the  best 
known  trees,  remarkable  for  its 
longevity,  and  the  value  of  its 
strong  and  elastic  wood.  Wo 
have  in  this  country  a  Yew, 
which  by  some  botanists  has 
been  considered  a  distinct  spe¬ 
cies  and  called  Taxus  Ganad.en- 
sis,  but  which  is  now  conceded 
to  be  only  a  remarkable  variety 
of  the  European  Taxus  baccata. 

The  American  Yew  is  not  rare 
in  the  Northern  States,  and 
along  the  Alleghanies  it  extends 
into  the  Southern  States.  It  is 
foimd  in  woods  as  a  low  shrub, 
and  from  its  resemblance  in  its 
foliage  to  the  Hemlock-tree  it  is 
commonly  called  Ground-hem¬ 
lock.  The  trunk  is  prostrate 
upon  the  ground,  or  just  below 
the  surface,  and  the  branches 
alone  appear  above  the  surface, 
which  rise  to  the  hight  of  only 
about  two  feet  and  form  a  mass 
of  bright  green  foliage.  The 
engraving  shows  a  branch  (of 
the  natural  size,)  with  leaves 
and  berries.  The  barren  and 
fertile  flowers  are  usually  borne 
on  different  plants,  the  fertile 
ones  being  remarkable  for  their 
simplicity  of  structure.  In  most 
plants  we  have  a  regular  pistil 
which  encloses  the  ovules,  and 
after  fertilization  the  pistil  be¬ 
comes  some  kind  of  a  fruit, 
while  the  ovules,  which  before 
were  little  green  pulpy  bodies, 
ripen  into  seeds.  In  the  Pine- 
family  generally — to  which  the 
Yew  belongs — the  undeveloped 
seeds,  or  ovules,  are  placed  at 
the  base  of  woody  scales,  which 
together  form  some  kind  of  a 
cone  and  protect  the  ripening 
seeds.  The  ovules  of  the  Yew 
are  without  even  the  protection 
of  a  scale,  but  are  borne  naked 
at  the  end  of  a  small  stem. 

After  the  ovule  is  fertilized  it 
begins  to  grow,  and,  and  as  it 
increases  in  size,  a  little  cup 
grows  up  around  its  base,  and 
when  the  seed  is  still  green  it 
appears  very  much  like  a  little 
acorn.  By  the  time  the  seed  is 
quite  mature,  this  cup  has  grown 
so  large  as  to  quite  enclose  it, 
though  it  is  not  in  contact  with 
it,  while  the  cup  itself  becomes 
soft  and  pulpy  and  takes  on*  a 
brilliant  scarlet  color.  The  partly  grown  fruit,  as 
well  as  that  which  is  mature,  are  shown  in  the  en¬ 
graving,  of  the  natural  size,  while  at  the  right 
hand  is  given  an  enlarged  fruit,  cut  through  the 
cup  and  exposing  the  seed.  The  plant  when  in 
fruit  is  quite  showy,  the  scarlet  berries  appearing 
in  brilliant  contrast  to  the  green  of  the  leaves. 
The  American  Yew  is  valuable  as  an  ornamen¬ 
tal  shrub,  from  the  fact  that  it  will  grow  readily 
beneath  other  trees.  We  do  not  find  the  plant 
in  the  catalogues  of  our  principal  nurseries,  but 


presume  that  they  would  grow  it  if  there  was  a 
demand  for  it.  Like  the  European  varieties,  it 
may  be  raised  from  cuttings  or  from  seeds. 
The  seeds  should  be  planted  without  being 
allowed  to  dry,  when  a  portion  will  germinate 


Tim  AMERICAN  TEW. 

the  first  year,  and  the  remainder  the  year  after. 
While  the  berries  of  the  yew  are  harmless  and 
may  be  eaten,  the  leaves  of  the  European  trees 
are  poisonous  to  human  beings  as  well  as  herses 
and  cattle,  and  it  is  probable  that  our  variety 
has  deleterious  properties,  but  upon  this  point 
we  have  no  positive  information.  The  plant 
varies  in  this  respect  in  diflferent  parts  of  Europe, 
in  some  localities  it  being  so  harmless  as  to  be 
fed  to  animals,  and  in  others  very  poisonous, 
and  the  same  may  be  the  case  with  it  here, 


Pruning  the  Grape  Vine. 

When  the  leaves  have  fallen  and  the  vine  is 
at  rest,  it  may  be  pruned.  Those  who  have 
vineyards,  have  given  thought  lb  the  manner  in 
(  which  they  will  treat  them,  and 

have  fixed  upon  a  system  of 
training  and  pruning;  such  will 
not  need  any  suggestions  from 
us.  But  there  are  many  who 
will  this  autumn  cut  a  vine  for 
the  first  time  in  their  lives,  and 
it  will  be  interesting  to  such  to 
know  how  to  prune  and  why 
to  do  it  at  all.  The  manage¬ 
ment  of  a  yoUng  vine  is  a  very 
simple  matter,  as  also  is  that 
of  an  older  one,  which  has  been 
started  in  and  kept  to  some  par¬ 
ticular  system.  But  the  most 
common  cases  in  which  we  are 
asked  advice  is,  where  a  vine 
has  been  allowed  to  ramble 
about  at  will,  and  having  be¬ 
come  over-grown  and  filled  with 
wood,  out  of  all  proportion  to 
the  amount  of  fruit  it  bears,  the 
owner  is  desirous  to  know  what 
to  do  with  it.  He  knows  that 
vines  are  benefited  by  pruning, 
and  he  would  cut  away  at  his 
_  if  he  only  knew  how  to  do  it. 
In  many  cases  it  would  be  best 
to  discard  the  old  Vine  alto¬ 
gether,  and  either  graft  it  at  the 
root,  as  described  in  another 
article,  or  dig  it  up  and  put  in 
a  better  variety.  If  the  vine  is 
of  a  good  sort,  canes  may  be 
found  which  can  be  layered  and 
thus  young  vines  obtained ;  af¬ 
ter  these  are  well  established, 
the  old  one  may  be  removed. 
Still  there  will  be  many  instan¬ 
ces  in  which  it  may  be  desirable 
to  retain  an  old  vine  as  a  screen, 
or  for  some  other  reason,  and 
the  possessor  wishes  to  make 
the  most  of  it.  As  each  indU 
vidual  vine  will  present  pecu¬ 
liarities  of  its  own,  the  best  we 
can  do  to  meet  such  cases  is  to 
give  some  general  notions  on 
pruning,  and  leave  the  reader  to 
apply  them  as  he  best  can  to 
his  own  particular  case.  Many 
have  not  noticed  that  the  fruit 
of  the  vine  is  always  borne  wpon 
the  young  icood,  i.  e.  upon  the 
shoot  which  pushes  from  the 
bud  in  spring.  One  who  un¬ 
derstands  this  fact,  will  appre¬ 
ciate  the  necessity  of  pruning 
judiciously,  as  the  buds  which 
have  been  formed  during  the 
past  summer  are  what  he  is  to 
look  to  for  his  next  year’s  fruit.' 
Figure  1,  next  page,  shows  a  young  vine,  or  a 
branch  of  an  old  one  ;  the  leaves  have  fallen, 
and  we  have  at  each  joint  of  the  stem,  just 
above  the  scar  left  by  each  leaf,  a  bud.  The 
upper  and  latest  formed  buds  are  the  largest  and 
most  vigorous,  and  if  a  stem  of  this  kind  be  al¬ 
lowed  to  take  its  own  course  next  year,  the 
upper  buds  will  push  first  in  spring,  and  getting 
the  start  of  the  lower  ones,  will  keep  the  ad¬ 
vantage  they  have  gained,  so  that  at  the  end  of 
the  next  year  we  will  have  a  vine  like  fig.  2, 


346 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[November, 


where  all  the  strongest  branches,  or  canes,  are 
above ;  those  below  are  weaker,  and  some  of  the 
lower  buds,  being  robbed  by  the  upper  ones  of 
their  nutriment,  may  not  start  at  all.  These 
branches  in  fig.  2  are  just  the  repetition  of  fig. 
1,  and  each  have  their  strongest  buds  at  the 
top,  which  will  in  turn  push  first,  and  thus, 
if  the  vine  is  neglected,  its  best  buds  and  conse¬ 
quently  most  vigorous  growth  will  be  made 
eSlch  year  fartlier  and  farther  from  the  ground. 
Upon  such  a  vine,  when  old  enough,  more  or 
less  fruit  would  be  borne,  but  the  wood  produ¬ 
ced  each  year  would  be  excessive,  and  the  vine 
at  length  become  the  tangled  thicket  we  so  often 


Fig.  o.  Fig.  2.  Fig.  1. 


find.  Now  supposing  that  fig.  1,  iusteail  of 
having  its  own  way,  be  cut  back  to  two  buds, 
as  shown  by  the  cross-line.  At  the  end  of  the 
next  season  it  wili  be  something  like  fig.  3,  with 
two  canes  of  about  equal  size,  which,  if  the 
vine  were  old  enough,  would  have  borne  fruit. 
These  canes  again  may  be  cut  back  the  next 
year,  or  be  shortened  and  laid  down  as  horizon¬ 
tal  arms,  in  which  case  the  buds  will  break 
more  evenly  than  when  the  vine  grows  upright 
and  the  shoots  from  them  will  be  more  likely  to 
fruit.  A  neglected  vine  will  be  a  mass  of 
branches,  having  more  or  less  resemblance  to 
fig.  2,  and  it  shouid  be  taken  in  hand,  bearing  in 
mind  what  we  have  above  stated  with  regard  to 
the  general  manner  of  growth.  Some  of  the 
branches  may  need  removal  altogether,  while 
the  wood  of  last  season’s  growth  will  all  need 
shortening.  Recollecting  that  each  good  bud 
will  produce  a  strong  shoot,  one  can  j  udge  how 
well  covered  the  arbor  or  trellis  will  be,  and 
avoid  crowding.  Sometimes  one  and  sometimes 
two  shoots  may  be  accommodated,  and  one  or 
two  buds  are  to  be  left  to  produce  them,  ob¬ 
serving  to  leave  one  more  bud  than  is  needed,  to 
guard  against  the  chances  of  the  cut  end  of  the 
cane  being  killed  during  the  winter;  this 
extra  bud  is  to  be  cut  away  in  February,  or 
March,  after  the  severest  weather  is  over.  For 
the  methods  of  treating  well  trained  vines,  as 
well  as  for  starting  a  young  vine  in  a  proper 
manner,  see  articles  in  the  Agriculturist  for 
April  of  last  year,  and  for  November  1863. 


Notes  on  Grapes. 

We  continue  our  notes  on  the  varieties  as  we 
have  seen  them  in  various  places,  or  have  re¬ 
ceived  them  through  the  kindness  of  friends. 
The  past  season  seems  to  have  upset  all-  former 
conclusions  as  to  the  value  of  varieties — some 
kinds  heretofore  considered  reliable,  having 
failed  in  particular  localities,  while  a  few  miles 
distant  the  same  sort  gave  a  satisfactory  crop. 
Many  who  have  fixed  upon  the  Delaware,  the 
Concord,  or  some  other,  as  the  grape,  have  had 
their  faith  shaken  by  the  rot  and  mildew  of  the 
past  season,  and  have  come  to  the  conclusion 
that  there  is  no  such  thing  as  infallibility  in  any 
variety.  From  the  number  of  fox  grapes  sent 
to  us  for  an  opinion,  it  would  seem  that  there 
are  many  who  have  never  tasted  a  good  grape. 
That  peculiar  flavor  and  odor  belonging  to  the 
large  native  grapes,  known  as  foxiness,  is  detri¬ 
mental  to  any  variety,  and  no  grape  having  a 
considerable  amount  of  this  can  be  expected  to 
rank  beyond  second  class,  even  if  it  possess 
many  good  qualities.  Hence  the  Concord  and 
Hartford,  which  have  a  trace  of  foxiness — only 
a  trace  to  be  sure,  when  they  are  well  grown — are 
excluded  from  the  first  rank.  It  is  true  that 
we  recommend  these  grapes,  as  they  are  a  great 
step  in  advance  of  the  uncertain  Isabella,  and 
one  who  has  a  vine  of  either  of  these  will  be 
quite  sure  to  have  a  plenty  of  fair-  fruit  which 
will  give  him  a  taste  for  something  better. 
Their  ease  of  propagation  and  free  growth,  are 
great  recommendations  with  the  general  public; 
but  as  finer  varieties  have  theii’  qualities  and 
capabilities  thoroughly  tested  by  amateurs,  we 
hope  to  see  these  supplant  all  inferior  kinds. 

There  are  three  classes  of  persons  who  grow 
grapes :  those  who  raise  them  for  market ;  those 
who  grow  them  for  home  consumption,  and  re¬ 
gard  quantity  rather  than  quality ;  and  those 
who  look  for  high  excellence  only.  Each  of 
these  classes  read  what  is  said  upon  grapes 
,with  different  views,  and  in  recommending  va¬ 
rieties  for  planting,  one  must  know  some¬ 
thing  of  the  object  the  planter  has  in  view. 
Setting  aside  differences  in  locality  we  still 
think,  if  we  were  to  plant  for  immediate  profit 
in  the  present  state  of  our  markets,  we  should 
put  in  the  Hartford,  Concord  and  Delaware. 
And  to  those  who  would  be  likely  to  treat  their 
vines  as  tiiey  usually  are  served,  which  is  to 
neglect  them,  we  should  say  plant  the  Hartford 
and  Concord,  as  they  will  give  some  fruit  even 
under  neglect.  Those  who  will  treat  a  vine  as 
it  should  be  treated,  have  a  choice  list  in  the 
Iona,  Delaware,  Israella,  Adirondac,  Rebecca 
and  others.  Of  course  where  the  Catawba  will 
flourish,  it  will  take  a  high  rank  as  a  grape  for 
market  or  any  other  purpose,"  but  such  locali¬ 
ties  are  so  few  that  we  leave  it  out  of  the  list, 
and  the  same  may  be  said  of  the  Isabella. 

We  wish  that  every  one  could  be  induced  to 
plant  the  choicer  varieties  and  take  proper  care 
of  them,  and  hope  that  the  time  will  come 
when  every  farmer  will  understand  how  to  give 
the  vine  that  care  which  it  so  abundantly  repays. 

Israella. — From  specimens  we  have  since 
seen,  we  think  that  our  notes  of  last  month 
hardly  did  this  variety  justice.  Three  bunches 
grown  by  Charles  Downing,  Esq.,  weighed  over 
three  pounds.  The  berries  were  of  good  size, 
and  the  bunches  very  compact.  The  fruit  is  very 
sweet,  and  of  a  delicate,  though  not  high  flavor. 

Adirondac. — At  Worcester,  we  saw  and  tasted 
specimens  raised  at  Norwich,  Conn.,  which 
were  quite  equal  in  excellence  to  any  of  this 
kind  we  have  seen  elsewhere. 


Almy. — This  variety  is  not  much  grown,  am, 
has  the  reputation  of  being  tender.  In  the  gar¬ 
den  of  our  friend  “  Horticola,”  at  Hoboken,  it 
flourishes  finely,  and  is  highly  prolific.  Those 
who  like  a  sprightly,  vinous  fruit,  should  try  the 
Alvey.  Farther  south,  it  is  a  great  favorite. 

Rogers'  JVo.  1. — A  large  and  extremely  hand¬ 
some  fruit,  of  a  rich  amber  color,  but  it  has  a 
thick  skin,  a  tough  pulp,  and  is  slightly  acrid. 
Its  size  and  great  beauty  would  make  it  popu¬ 
lar  as  a  market  grape,  should  it  prove  to  be  as 
good  a  bearer  as  it  promises  to  be. 

Concord. — The  finest  specimens  we  have  seen 
this  year  were  raised  by  Mr.  Fuller,  upon  trel¬ 
lises,  and  closely  trained  by  the  arm  and  spur 
system.  There  is  a  disposition  in  some  quarters 
to  ridicule  the  trellis  as  an  “iron  bedstead” 
upon  which  the  vine  is  to  be  cramped,  and  there 
is  a  great  deal  of  nonsense  about  not  being  able 
to  restrain  the  Hail  Columbia  propensities  of 
the  free  American  grape  vine.  This  spread- 
eagle  talk  may  please  some,  but  our  observation 
shows  that  the  best  grapes  grow  on  the  best 
trained  and  most  restricted  vines. 

- »  ■  ■  «  — — - 

Hints  to  ExMbiters. 


At  the  various  horticultural  exhibitions  we 
have  attended  this  season,  we  have  seen  much 
to  admire,  and  some  things  which  might  have 
been  better  had  the  exhibiters  in  some  cases 
taken  more,  and  in  others  less  pains  with  their 
articles.  These  exhibitions  have  their  uses  to 
the  cultivators,  as  under  the  stimulus  of  prizes, 
a  pleasant  rivalry  is  engendered,  which  results 
beneficially  in  many  ways  to  practical  horticul¬ 
turists.  But  they  have  another  use,  and  one 
which  we  consider  quite  as  important:  they 
create  among  the  people  who  visit  them,  a  taste 
for  the  beautiful  and  the  good,  and  serve  to  in¬ 
struct  the  public  in  horticultural  matters.  These 
shows  should  be  so  managed,  as  not  only  to 
benefit  those  who  contribute,  but  those  who  go 
to  see  the  articles,  aud  this  is  a  matter  over 
which  the  managers  have  but  little  control,  but 
one  in  which  each  exhibiter  can  aid.  A  collec¬ 
tion  of  rare  green-house  iilants  is  always  attrac¬ 
tive  ;  the  visitor  who  is  not  a  florist,  is  struck 
by  the  appearance  of  some  specimen,  and  wishes 
to  know  its  name,  and  looks  around  for  a  label. 
In  the  majority  of  cases  he  will  see  nothing  to 
indicate  what  the  plant  is,  but  if  he  perseveres 
he  may  find  a  bit  of  weather-worn  wood  stuck  in 
the  earth  of  the  pot;  upon  this  are  a  few 
characters  in  pencil,  which  are  all  that  remains 
of  what  was  once  a  label.  Every  plant  should 
be  so  labeled  that  the  visitor  can  find  the  name 
without  a  search,  and  it  should  be  in  plain  and 
unmistakable  characters.  At  the  Pennsylvania 
exhibition,  we  noticed  that  very  general  attention 
was  given  to  this  point,  and  that  there  were 
some  notable  specimens  of  careful  labeling. 
Displays  of  miscellaneous  cut  flowers  seldom 
have  labels  for  each,  but  they  would  be 
much  more  instructive  if  they  did,  yet  these 
should  be  so  arranged  as  not  to  mislead  the  un¬ 
skilled  observer.  In  one  place,  we  saw  in  racks 
of  cut  flowers,  the  leaves  of  one  plant  placed  in 
the  same  phial  with  the  flowers  of  an  entirely 
different  one.  A  display  of  vegetables  which, 
for  extent  and  variety,  was  the  finest  we  ever 
saw,  including  as  it  did  many  unusual  things, 
lost  much  of  its  usefulness  from  the  absence  of 
labels.  Fruit  should  be  so  arranged  t  hat  one  in 
looking  at  a  plate  can  get  a  distinct  view  of  the 
form  and  color.  A  dozen  Louise  Bonne  pears 
may  make  a  better  show  with  the  red  cheeks 
all  turned  up,  but  the  true  character  of  the  fruit 


1866.] 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST. 


347 


is  better  shown  if  some  expose  the  shady  side. 
At  one  exhibition  a  collection  of  pears  was  ar¬ 
ranged  in  a  most  ludicrous  manner ;  there  were 
six  specimens  of  each,  upon  plates  much  too 
small,  and  every  pear  was  carefully  placed  with 
the  calyx  end  out,  and  the  stem  end  of  the 
fruit  entirely  concealed.  This  arrangement, 
while  it  prevented  the  observer  from  seeing  the 
true  form  of  the  varieties,  gave  the  collec¬ 
tion  the  appearance  of  a  miniature  arsenal  in 
which  homh-shells  were  piled  up  ready  for  use. 
We  mention  this  as  an  illustration  of  worse 
than  useless  pains-taking.  Another,  is  the 
practice,  less  common  than  formerly,  but  still 
too  frequent,  of  rubbing  up  the  fruit.  This  pol¬ 
ishing  of  pears  and  apples  is  well  enough  for 
the  stand  of  the  huckster,  but  upon  the  table  of 
a  horticultural  society  it  is  in  very  bad  taste. 


Local  Fruit  Lists. 


Some  years  ago,  before  horticultural  societies 
were  as  niunerous  or  as  active  as  they  are  at 
present,  we  obtained  and  published  over  seventy 
lists  of  apples.  These  were  from  cultivators  liv¬ 
ing  in  all  parts  of  the  country,  each  one  giving 
his  selection  of  the  twelve  varieties  best  suited 
to  his  section.  These  lists  will  be  found  ’in  the 
Agriculturist  for  April,  May  and  June,  1861. 
Though  in  some  cases  newer  or  more  thorough¬ 
ly  tested  varieties  may  be  substituted  for  some 
of  those  in  the  lists,  they  are  still  of  great  value 
to  whoever  would  make  selections  of  fruit.  Of 
late  years  the  different  horticultural  and  pomo- 
logical  societies  are  doing  good  service  in  gath¬ 
ering  and  publishing  similar  statistics.  Every 
one  who  grows  fruit  to  any  extent  should  be 
a  member  of  his  County  or  State  Society,  and 
while  he  adds  his  experience,  avail  himself  of 
that  of  others.  The  lists  by  States  are  not,  how¬ 
ever,  unerring  guides,  as  most  of  the  States  pre¬ 
sent  a  great  diversity  of  soil  and  climate,  and  it 
will  be  impossible  to  fix  upon  a  dozen  varieties 
which  will  be  best  for  a  whole  State ;  and  while 
lists  of  this  kind  serve  as  a  general  guide,  one 
should  take  pains  to  gather  all  possible  local  in¬ 
formation,  and  find  out  what  has  been  the  ex¬ 
perience  of  his  neighbors.  To  answer  several 
inquiries,  we  give  the  following  list  for  Iowa : 

Summer:  C%i'olina  Red  June,  EJrkbridge 
White,  Red  Astrachan ;  s.  High  Top. — Autumn : 
Maiden’s  Blush,  Lowell,  Rambo,  McLellan  ;  s. 
Pumpkin  Sweet. —  Winter:  Raule’s  Janet,  White 
Winter  Pearmain,  Roman  Stem,  White  Pippin ; 
s.  Sweet  Romanite. 

An  experienced  cultivator  in  Wisconsin  sends 
the  following  as  his  selection :  Summer  :  Red 
Astrachan,  Earlj’’  Joe,  Keswick  Codlin;  s.  High 
Top. — Autumn :  Fameuse,  Autumn  Strawber¬ 
ry,  Duchess  of  Oldenburgh,  Fall  Orange;  s. 
Munson  Sweeting. — Winter:  Golden  Russet, 
King  of  Tompkins  Co.,  W.  Seek-no-further,  Yel¬ 
low  Bellflower,  Lady  Apple;  s.  Talman  Sweeting. 

The  Ohio  Pomological  Society  made  an  at¬ 
tempt  to  ascertain  the  best  twelve  varieties  of 
apples  for  market.  They  publish  the  replies 
from  persons  in  different  parts  of  the  State,  but 
the  selections  were  so  unlike  jn  different  locali¬ 
ties  that  it  would  appear  that  no  decision  was 
reached.  The  following  varieties  obtained  the 
greatest  number  of  votes :  Fallawater,  Baldwin, 
R.  I.  Greening,  Northern  Spy,  Peck’s  Pleasant, 
Smith’s  Cider,  White  Pippin,  Red  Canada, 
Westfield  Seek-uo-further,  Roxbury  Russet. 

The  Fruit  Growers’  Society  of  Eastern  Penn¬ 
sylvania,  publish  as  the  results  of  two  years 
careful  comparison  of  reports,  a  selection  of  the 
best  twelve  apples  for  Eastern  Penn.  Summ&r : 


Red  Astrachan,  Sine  Qua  Non,  Early  Harvest.— 
Autumn:  Maiden’s  Blush,  Porter,  Smokehouse. 
—  Winter :  Baldwin,  Smith’s  Cider,  Fornwalder 
(or  FaUawater),  Northern  Spy,  R.  I.  Greening, 
Hubbai'dston  Nonsuch. 

Their  list  of  pears  for  Standards  is :  Summer : 
Doyenne  D’Ete,  Dearborn’s  Seedling,  Manning’s 
Elizabeth.— Awiwmn. :  Seckel,  Bartlett,  Belle 
Lucrative,  Flemish  Beauty,  Beiure  Diel,  Beurre 
D’ Anjou. —  Winter:  Lawrence,  Easter  Beurre, 
Reading.  For  dwarfs :  Summer :  Beurre  Gif- 
fard.  Doyenne  D’Ete,  Osband’s  Summer. — Au¬ 
tumn  :  Louise  Bonne  de  Jersey,  Ducliesse 
D’Angouleme,  Belle  Lucrative,  Beurre  D’ Anjou, 
Beurre  Diel,  Buffum. —  Winter:  Lawrence,  Glout 
Morceau,  Vicar  of  Winkfield.  The  Massachu¬ 
setts  Agricultural  Society  have  given  the  fol¬ 
lowing  as  their  list  of  the  best  six  pears :  Bart¬ 
lett,  Louise  Bonne  de  Jersey,  Urbaniste,  Beurre 
D’ Anjou,  Sheldon,  Seckel,  and  for  twelve  add: 
Onondaga,  Merriam,  Doyenne  Boussock,  Vicar 
of  Winkfield,  Paradise  D’ Automne  and  Fulton. 

- -»  I  -go nr—  I  II. - 

Hints  for  the  Flower  Garden. 


It  is  a  common  practice  to  cut  out  oval  beds 
b}'  the  walks  in  the  lawn,  and  to  fill  them  with 
flowering  plants.  Some  persons  fill  these  beds 
with  roses,  which  look  well  in  Spring  and 
early  Summer,  but  later  in  the  season  they  be¬ 
come  tall  and  spindling,  difficult  to  be  trained 
handsomely,  and  the  leaves  on  the  lower 
branches  turn  brown  and  continually  drop. 
In  our  own  grounds,  we  have  found  it  a  great 
improvement  to  remove  the  roses  to  the  flower 
garden  proper,  and  to  fill  the  beds  on  the  lawn 
with  verbenas,  and  other  similar  plants.  These 
just  peep  above  the  grass  level  of  the  lawn,  and 
their  nodding  heads  of  scarlet  and  white  and 
blue,  ever  smiling  and  gay,  are  a  continual  feast 
of  beauty  from  early  summer  to  November. 

In  another  part  of  the  grounds,  we  devoted 
an  old  rose  bed  last  season,  to  Drummond’s 
Phlox.  Seeds  of  eight  different  varieties  were 
sown  in  boxes  in  the  house  the  first  of  April, 
and  the  plants  set  out  one  foot  apart  early  in 
May.  They  soon  became  established,  and  were 
in  bloom  nearly  all  summer.  Indeed  they  came 
into  full  and  abundant  flower  sooner  than  the 
verbenas,  and  for  the  months  of  June  and  July, 
were  the  finer  spectacle  of  the  two.  But  they 
could  not  endure  the  drouth  of  August,  and 
then  the  verbenas  eclipsed  them.  It  is  not 
known  to  all  what  great  improvements  have 
lately  been  made  in  these  phloxes.  We  now 
have  scarlet  with  white  eye,  crimson  with 
ditto,  rose  color  ditto,  white  with  dark  eye, 
and  then  the  marbled  and  purple,  and  several 
other  shades.  As  flowers  for  massing  on  the 
lawn,  both  verbenas  and  Drummond’s  Phlox, 
can  hardly  be  surpassed. 

Another  lesson  we  have  lately  learned,  is, 
never  to  set  choice  flowers  on  the  south  side  of 
a  hedge  and  near  to  it.  The  early  bulbs,  such 
as  crocus,  snow-drop  and  hyacinth,  will  do 
very  well  here,  because  the  ground  keeps  moist 
during  the  usual  period  of  their  blooming.  But 
in  mid-Summer,  between  the  concentrated  heat 
and  the  exhaustion  of  the  moisture  by  the  roots 
of  the  hedge,  all  choice  plants  will  droop  and 
perhaps  die  a  lingering  death. 

If  anything  besides  the  early  bulbs  is  to  be 
set  here,  let  it  be  the  hardiest  perennial  plants, 
or  low  shrubs.  Indeed  we  question  whether 
fences  should  not  be  substituted  for  hedges  in 
places  near  the  flower  borders.  Fences  have  no 
hungry  roots,  and  though  hedges  are  more  orna¬ 
mental  they  occupy  more  soil  than  can  be  spared. 


Asphalt  or  Coal  Tar  Walks. 

Last  year  we  gave  an  account  of  the  method 
of  making  garden  walks  of  coal  tar  and  sand. 
In  towns  in  the  interior  of  New  York  State,  a 
somewhat  similar  process  is  employed  in  making 
street  walks,  which  a  gentleman  residing  there 
thus  describes  to  the  American  Agriculturist: 

“  When  lumber  could  be  bought  at  a  fair 
price,  plank-walks  were  about  the  best  that 
could  be  made  for  the  sti-eets  of  country  villages. 
Quickly  built,  they  were  also  pleasant  to  the 
feet.  But  they  did  not  prove  durable,  and  are 
now  too  expensive.  Good  gravel  is  not  to  be 
had  now  in  sufficient  quantity  for  the  public  de¬ 
mand,  and,  as  commonly  used,  even  gravel 
walks  wear  out.  Some  one  has  suggested  the 
use  of  coal  gas  tar  and  water-lime,  mixed  with 
gravel  and  sand,  to  form  a  concrete  bed  for 
walks.  The  experiment  has  now  been  in  course 
of  trial  for  several  years,  and  thus  far  works  well. 

The  ground  is  excavated  for  the  walk  to  the 
depth  of  three  and-a-half  inches,  and  as  wide 
as  the  path  is  desired.  Hemlock  scantling,  two 
inches  by  four,  are  then  laid  down  on  each  side 
of  the  track,  and  fastened  by  stakes  driven  into 
the  ground,  which  are  sawed  off  flush  with  the 
surface  of  the  scantling.  In  the  walk  between, 
a  layer  two  inches  thick  of  coarse  gravel  or 
small  stones  is  spread,  the  stones  to  be  no  larger 
than  hens’  eggs.  This  layer  is  now  saturated 
with  a  mixture  of  gas  tar  and  water  lime. 
While  this  is  yet  moist,  a  layer  of  fine  gravel  two 
inches  thick  is  spread  over  it,  the  gravel  hav¬ 
ing  been  previously  sifted.  This,  too,  is  satu¬ 
rated  with  tar  and  water  lime.  A  final  coat  of 
sand  is  now  spread  over  this,  raising  the  suface 
an  inch  or  more  higher  than  the  scantlings  on 
each  side.  The  walk  is  now  to  be  made  com¬ 
pact  and  hard  by  passing  a  heavy  roller  over 
it  until  it  settles  to  a  level  with  the  scantlings. 
It  is  desirable  that  the  walk  be  made  a  little 
higher  in  the  center  than  at  the  sides,  so  as  to 
shed  water  effectually.  After  a  few  days,  it  will 
be  hard  enough  to  use. 

The  cost  of  such  a  walk  is  from  40  to  60  cents 
a  square  yard,  according  to  the  price  of  mate¬ 
rials  in  different  localities.  Walks  of  this  de¬ 
scription  have  been  in  use  at  Elmira  in  this 
State,  for  several  years,  at  Syracuse,  Palmyra, 
Waterloo,  and  Lyons,  for  three  and  five  years, 
and  in  all  cases  they  prove  durable,  cheaper  than 
stone  flagging,  and  pleasanter  to  the  feet.  It 
was  predicted  at  flrst  that  the  frost  would  heave 
and  break  them  up,  but  this  does  not  prove  to 
be  the  fact.  The  only  practical  objection  we 
have  heard  of  is,  that  occasionally  in  hot  weather 
they  emit  the  odor  of  gas  tar,  which  is  offensive 
to  some  persons.” 


Earth  Closets. — The  English  agricultural 
and  horticultural  journals  contain  advertise¬ 
ments  of  “  earth  closets.”  From  the  brief  descrip¬ 
tion  given,  it  seems  that  they  are  intented  to  re¬ 
place  water  closets,  and  that  they  are  so  con¬ 
structed  that  instead  of  washing  away  and 
wasting  the  deposit,  it  is  covered  by  a  quantity 
of  dry  earth,  sufficient  to  absorb  all  gases.  A 
practicable  apparatus  of  this  kind,  if  it  could  be 
generally  introduced,  would  be  of  great  benefit 
in  saving  for  our  farms.and  gardens  much  valu¬ 
able  manure,  that  is  now  lost.  From  another 
source  we  learn  that  the  earth  used  may  be 
dried  and  used  again  a  number  of  times  (five  to 
seven),  with  equal  effect,  and  without  offense. 
Some  of  our  inventors  should  turn  their  atten¬ 
tion  to  this  matter,  and  when  an  efficient  ap¬ 
paratus  is  devised,  we  shall  be  glad  to  note  it. 


348 


.  AMEBICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[November, 


The  Cardinal  Flower — Lobelia  Cardinalis. 


Prom  mid-summer  until  early  autumn,  there 
may  be  found  along  the  banks  of  streams,  and 
in  wet  places,  a  native  flower  of  so  rich  a  deep 
red  color,  that  it  usually  arrests  the  attention 
even  of  those  who  do  not  ordinarily  notice 
plants.  It  is  the  Cardinal- flower — but  no  Car¬ 
dinal  ever  wore  as  the  sign  of  his  office  a  hat 
of  so  intense  a  scarlet  as  wears  this  wild  flower. 
We  have  attempted  in  the  engraving  to  give  the 
shape  of  the  flower,  which  together  with  its  re¬ 
markable  color  will  enable  it  to  be  identified. 
The  plant  is  a  perennial,  forming  clumps  of 
herbaceous  stems  two  to  four  feet  high,  each 
one  of  which  bears  a  long  raceme  of  flowers  of 
the  size  and  shape  here  shown.  The  flower 
cluster  is  often  more  one-sided  and  usually  long¬ 
er  than  in  the  ehgraving.  If  the  flower  be  ex-  | 


amined  closely,  its  structure  will  be  found  to  be 
rather  unusual.  The  corolla  at  first  sight  ap¬ 
pears  as  if  the  plant  belonged  to  the  Mint- 
family,  it  being  somewhat  2-lipped,  the  lower 
lip  wdth  three  spreading  divisions,  and  the  up¬ 
per  with  two  somewhat  erect  ones ;  but.  a  fur¬ 
ther  examination  will  show  that  the  corolla  is 
split  do\yn  its  whole  length  at  a  point  between 
the  two  upper  lobes  or  divisions.  Moreover, 
the  stamens  are  curiously  united  for  their  whole 
length,  anthers  and  all,  into  a  tube  much  longer 
than  the  corolla,  and  which  encloses  the  long 
and  slender  pistil.  The  pod  contains  many 
very  small  seeds.  These  are  characters  which 
are  not  found  in  the  Mint-family,  but  which  dis¬ 
tinguish  the  Lobelia  family.  The  genus  is  named 
Lobelia,  after  Lobel.  The  specific  name  is  in  refei'- 
ence  to  the  red  hat  worn  by  the  Cardinals  of  the 
church  of  Rome.  Though  this  plant  naturally 
inhabits  swampy  ground,  it  does  very  well  in 
rich  garden  soil,  and  a  clump  of  it  is  not  ex¬ 
celled  in  beauty  by  any  of  the  exotics.  The 
roots  should  be  removed  as  the  leaves  begin  to 
wither  in  autumn,  or  the  spot  carefully  marked 
so  that  they  can  be  dug  up  in  spring.  We  once 
saw  in  the  Botanical  Garden,  at  Cambridge, 
Mass.,  a  white  variety,  and  Doctor  Gray  records 
a  rose  colored  one  as  having  been  found  in  that 
State.  As  the  plant  seems  to  have  a  tendency 
to  sport  in  its  wild  state,  it  is  probable  that  a 
pains-taking  florist  might  produce  some  striking 
varieties  from  the  seed.  Besides  this,  there  are 
several  exotic  species  cultivated  in  the  garden  and 
Green-house,  which  are  valued  for  their  delica¬ 
cy  and  beauty,  rather  than  for  the  showiness  of 
their  flowers.  We  have  a  large  blue-flowered, 
native  species.  Lobelia  syphillitiea,  the  Great 
Lobelia,  which  has  flowers  of  a  fine  color,  but 
the  plant  is  rather  coarse  and  weedy  in  appear¬ 
ance.  There  are  about  ten  other  native  species, 
but  none  of  them  as  striking  as  those  we  have 
mentioned.  One  of  these.  Lobelia  inflata,  is  an 
annual,  with  very  small  flowers ;  it  is  called 
inflata  on  account  of  its  bladdery  seed  pod. 
The  popular  name  of  this  is  “  Indian  Tobacco 
it  is  possessed  of  violent  emetic  and  narcotic 
properties,  and  has  frequently  proved  fatal  in 
the  hands  of  quacks.  These  persons,  who 
know  as  little  about  names  as  they  do  about 
medicine,  call  this  iozr-belia,  and  distinguish 
the  Cardinal  flower,  which  they  also  sometimes 
employ  in  their  mal-practice,  as  iZiy/i-belia, 


The  Benne  or  Sesame. 

In  the  catalogues  we  find  among  the  seeds 
of  “  medicinal  herbs,”  Benne  seed,  and  the 
plant  is  frequently  grown  in  gardens  because  it 
is  “  good  in  case  of  sickness.”  The  readers  of 
the  Agriculturist  will  bear  witness  that  we 
do  not  advocate  herb — or  any  other  kind  of 
popular  physic,  and  this  notice  of  the  Benne 
will  not  be  an  exception  to  the  usual  course, 
for,  as  we  shall  show  presently,  the  plant  be¬ 
longs  to  that  class  of  safe  remedies  which  “will 
do  no  hurt  if  it  does  no  good.”  We  notice  the 
plant  because  we  have  had  inquiries  about  it, 
and  seeing  it  growing  in  the  garden  of  Mr. 
Sampson  Gordon,  of  Staten  Island,  we  have  had 
a  figure  of  it  engraved,  which  will  give  a  suffi¬ 
ciently  good  idea  of  its  appearance.  Benne  or 
Sesame  is  a  native  of  Asia  and  Africa,  and  our 
cold  climate  does  not  allow  it  to  reach  its  full 
development.  The  engraving  gives  the  size  of 
the  leaves,  etc.,  as  it  appears  with  us,  where  the 
plant,  which  is  an  annual,  only  grows  about  two 
feet  high,  while  in  tropical  countries  it  is  5  or  6 
feet  high,  and  robust  in  proportion ;  nor  does  it 


usually  ripen  its  seeds  at  the  North!  The  bo¬ 
tanical  name  of  the  plant  is  Sesamum  Indicum, 
and  it  is  closely  related  to  the  Trumpet  Creeper 
and  the  Martynia  of  the  gardens.  The  seeds 
are  small  and  yellowish  and  contain  a  great 
deal  of  oil.  They  are  used  considerably  for 
food,  in  the  same  manner  as  the  grains  in  orien¬ 
tal  countries,  and  by  the  negroes  at  the  South. 
In  the  old  story  of  the  Forty  Thieves,  the  cave 
which  contained  the  treasures  of  the  robbers 
would  only  open  at  the  proper  word ;  the  poor 
cobbler  who  discovered  the  place  tried  “  open 
barley,”  and  other  grains,  but  the  cave  remained 
closed  until  he  said  “  open  sesame.”  Probably 
many  of  our  readers  use  the  term  “open  sesame” 
without  knowing  that  it  refers  in  any  way  to 
the  plant  under  notice.  The  oil  obtained  from 
the  seeds  is  of  an  excellent  quality  and  is  used 
for  the  same  purposes  as  olive  oil.  We  have 
seen  large  fields  of  the  plant  in  Mexico,  where 
it  is  grown  for  oil  making. 

A  remarkable  peculiarity  of  the  plant  is  the 
amount  of  mucilage  contained  in  its  leaves.  If 
one  or  two  fresh  leaves  be  placed  in  a  tumbler  of 
cold  water  the  liquid  will  in  a'  few  minutes  be¬ 
come  thick  and  ropy,  like  a  thin  mucilage  of 
gum  arable,  and  remain  pcrfcctlj’’  ti'ansparent. 
The  leaves  are  used  in  this  way  to  make  a  mu¬ 
cilaginous  drink  for  those  sick  with  inflamma¬ 
tory  diseases  of  the  bowels,  etc.  It  is  probably 


quite  inert  medicinally,  but  answers  as  a  substi¬ 
tute  for  gum  arable,  slippery  elm,  marsh  mal¬ 
low,  and  similar  bland  articles,  and  may  be  ad¬ 
vantageously  employed  where  a  pure  and  taste¬ 
less  mucilaginous  drink  is  required.  The  seeds 
are  rather  slow  in  germinating :  they  are  sown 
in  rows  eighteen  inches  apart,  and  the  plants 
are  thinned  to  a  foot  in  the  row. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


349 


The  Care  of  House  Plants. 


The  change  from  the  open  air  to  quarters 
■within  the  house  is  often  fatal  to  the  health  of 
plants,  and  although  the  owner  gives  them,  as 
lie  tliinks,  every  care,  their  foliage  takes  on  a 
sickly  look  or  drops.  This  especially  is  the  case 
when  plants  are  removed  late  in  the  season  to 
save  them  from  an  apprehended  frost,  and  taken 
to  a  close,  and  it  may  be  'heated  room.  The 
change  *from  free  air  to  the  house  should  be 
gradual,  and  plants  will  do  much  better  if  they 
are  at  first  removed  to  a  room  without  a  fire, 
to  which  air  can  be  freely  admitted  on  every 
mild  day,  and  thus  gradually  accustomed  to  the 
new  condition  of  things.  Those  plants  which 
are  merely  brought  in-doors  for  protection,  and 
are  not  expected  to  groiv  and  bloom  will  do 
wmll  in  a  room  without  a  fire,  except  in  very  se¬ 
vere  weather.  The  best  place  for  such  plants, 
however,  is  a  light  and  dry  cellar  that  is  protect¬ 
ed  from  frost.  In  cither  place,  the  plants  need 
but  little  water.  Plants  in  sitting  rooms  need 
to  have  plenty  of  light;  ventilation  whenever 
the  external  temperature  renders  it  practicable ; 
■vwater  according  to  the  needs  of  the  particular 
kind  of  plants ;  and  particular!}’’,  w'hat  is  so  often 
neglected,  they  should  have  a  frequent  wash¬ 
ing  of  the  foliage  to  free  it  of  dust  and  insects. 

As  we  were  writing  this  article,  there  came  to 
hand  a  letter  from  Mr.  C.  II.  Spooner,  of  Phila¬ 
delphia,  who  removed  from  the  country  where 
he  had  a  green-house,  and  brought  his  plants  to 
the  city  where  he  had  no  proper  structure  for 
them.  The  experience  of  Mr.  S.  in  keeping 
plants  in  an  unfavorable  locality,  will  doubtless 
be  useful  to  many,  and  his  directions  for  gener¬ 
al  treatment  are  such  as  may  be  safely  followed. 

“  My  home  in  the  City  is  on  the  north  side  of 
the  street,  and  the  back  room  in  which  I  keep 
my  plants  never  receives  a  ray  of  sunshhie 
from  November  until  March ;  it  is  also  heated 
■with  hot  air  from  kitchen  range,  }’et  even  under 
these,  the  worst  of  circumstances,  some  of  the 
plants  did  much  better  than'  could  have  been 
expected.  Azaleas  flowered  finely  toward  spring, 
when  a  little  sunshine  crept  in  for  an  hour  or 
two.  Epiphyllum  Jenkinsonii,  Grahamii,  and 
speciosa,  also  flowered  superbly.  The  ■whole 
Cactus  family  are  well  adapted  for  room  culture, 
making  no  litter,  standing  much  bad  treatment, 
except  an  excess  of  w'ater  while  at  rest  (during 
winter),  and  profuse  in  flowering.  Habrotham- 
nus  elegans  was  a  miracle  of  beauly  during  the 
Avinter,  the  plant  Avas  about  three  feet  high,  and 
had  been  pinched  in  so  as  to  form  a  bushy,  yet 
umbrella  shaped  head,  before  being  allowed  to 
floAver.  It  had  as  many  as  fifty  trusses  in  bloom 
at  one  time.  Ardisia  crenulata,  looked  pretty, 
until  severe  cold  Aveather,  AA’hen  the  thermome¬ 
ter  fell  sometimes  one  or  two  degrees  beloAV 
freezing  point,  causing  it  to  cast  its  fruit.  Ca¬ 
mellias  lost  their  buds,  and  looked  badly.  Lily 
of  the  Nile,  bloomed  flnel}’’.  Geraniums  want¬ 
ed  sunshine  to  make  them  bloom.  Hare’s-foot- 
Silver  striped,  and  other  green-house  Ferns  did 
pretty  Avell,  as  did  the  common  Lycopodium. 
To  sum  up  with  a  few  brief  hints  to  those  not 
acquainted  Avith  the  culture  of  plants  in  rooms  ; 
Never  Avater  your  plant  until  the  earth  looks 
rather  light  and  dry,  then  give  a  good  soaking 
Avith  AA'ater,  not  too  cold.  If  any  plant  gets  in¬ 
fested  Avith  insects,  take  it  to  the  bath  tub  or 
hydrant,  lay  it  on  its  side,  and  if  you  have  no 
garden  syringe,  put  a  finger  under  the  mouth 
of  the  faucet,  and'  spray  the  Avater  Avith  gentle 
force  over  and  under  the  leaA'^es.  If  you  can 
gpriiikle  your  plaiUs  every  c]ay  (wUeu  the  air  jq 


the  room  is  not  too  cold),  it  Avill  be  of  much 
benefit.  Discard  hot-house  plants  as  a  general 
thing,  as  to  keep  them  in  a  temperature  suffi¬ 
ciently  Avarm,  would  induce  a  corresponding 
dryness  in  the  atmosphere,  which  that  kind  of 
plants  can  not  endure.  Azaleas,  Cactus,  Gera¬ 
niums,  Habrothamnus,  Cestrum,  Dwarf  Orange, 
Daphne  (flowered  finely  Avith  me),  YcIIoav  Jas- 
samine  (excellent),  Beloperone  oblongata,  Rhyn- 
cospernraum  jasminoides.  Bramble  rose,  and  if 
you  have  sunshine,  tlie  different  varieties  of 
Oxalis  are  very  pretty.  Never  open  the  windoAV 
in  cold  or  Avindy  weather,  as  all  sudden  changes 
are  detrimental.” 


TME  e®USEM(D)]Ll. 


About  Cinnamon  and  Cassia. 


Under  the  name  of  Cinnamon  Ave  have  in  gen¬ 
eral  use  a  spice  Avliich  is  universally  popular,  but 
Avhicli  is  not  Cinnamon  at  all.  The  true  spice  of 
this  name  is  the  produet  of  Cinnaniomum  Zeylani- 
cum,  a  tree  Avhich  is  a  native  of  Ceylon,  but  is  uoav 
cultivated  in  several 
neighboring  countries. 
The  tree  is  about  30 
feet  high,  has  thick, 
pale  green,  shining  and 
strongly  Ihrce-veined 
leaves,  and  clusters  of 
small  flowers.  The 
shape  of  the  leaves,  but 
reduced  iu  size,  is 
shoAvn  in  the  illustra¬ 
tion,  fig.  1.  All  parts 
of  the  ijlant  are  aro¬ 
matic,  but  the  bark  of 
the  young  branches  is 
the  portion  used  for  its 
1  flaA’or.  Branches  three 
years  old  are  removed 
from  the  tree  and  peel¬ 
ed,  and  the  outer  layer 
of  the  bark,  or  skin,  is 
scraped  off.  The  bark 
in  drying,  curls  up 
lengthAvise  so  as  to 
form  an  imperfect  cy- 
Fig  2  Fig  3  Tinder,  and  Avhile  yet 

flexible,  eight  or  ten 
of  those  pieces  or  “  quills  ”  are  placed  one  Avithin 
another  so  as  to  form  rolls  about  a  yard  long, 
Avhich  when  thoroughly  dry  are  put  up  in  bales. 
The  true  oinnaraon  is  quite  costly,  and  is  seldom 
found  in  any  shops  except  those  of  the  druggists. 
It  is  readily  distinguished  by  being  very  thin, 


scarcely  thicker  than  ordinary  brown  paper,  and 
by  its  light  yelloAvish  brown  color,  and  peculiar 
taste.  Being  an  expensive  article  it  is  not  in  gen¬ 
eral  use,  but  those  Avho  are  particular  about  flavors 
Avill  biY  it,  notwithstanding  its  high  price,  in  pref¬ 
erence  to  the  article  commonly  sold  as  cinna¬ 
mon,  Avhich  is  Cassia.  Cassia  is  the  product  of 
another,  and  perhaps  more  than  one  other  si)ccic3 
of  Cmnamomum,  and  comes  from  China  and  sever¬ 
al  of  the  East  Indian  ports.  The  bark  is  much 
thicker  than  the  true  cinnamon,  is  of  a  redder 
broAvn  color,  and  the  pieces,  instead  of  being  rolled 
one  within  another,  are  single,  or  only  two  or  three 
together.  It  is  imposed  in  small  bales  made  of 
matting  Avhich  contain  two  or  more  pound  rolls  of 
the  bark.  The  figures  2  and  3,  show  the  difference 
in  the  appearance  of  the  tAvo  barks,  the  Cassia 
bark,  flg.  2,  being  much  thicker  than  that  of  the 
Cinnamon,  fig.  3.  Besides  these  differences,  there 
is  a  marked  one  in  the  taste  Avhich  can  not  be  Avcll 
described,  but  Avhich  is  readily  recognized  by  any 
one  Avho  has  compared  the  tAvo.  The  flavors  are 
simiiar  but  very  distinct,  and  although  the  Cassia 
is  the  stronger  of  the  tAVO,  the  Ciifhamon  is  far 
more  agreeable  .and  delicate.  The  C.assia  then,  is 
the  b.ark  Avhich  we  nse  under  the  name  of  Cinna¬ 
mon,  and  this  Avhen  purchased  in  the  powdered 
form  is  very  likely  to  be  adulterated,  by  various 
cheap  substances  Avhich  are  ground  up  AA’ith  it. 
With  this,  as  Avith  other  spices,  the  only  way  to  be 
sure  of  a  pure  article  is  to  procure  it  in  the  un- 
mauuflActured  state  and  poAvder  or  grind  it  at  home. 

- - - >•«•>> - - 

A  Neat  and  Inexpensive  Oraament. 

Recently  a  nerv  style  of  ornamental  Avork  has  ap¬ 
peared  for  sale,  which  at  first  looks  like  beautifully 
carved  rustle  Avork.  A  close  examination,  however, 
shows  that  the  fine  effect  is  produced  Avith  a  very 
common  material,  only  butternut  shells,  cut  in  thin 
slices  across  the  gr.ain,  and  fastened  together  at  the 
edges  Avith  glue.  The  illustration  represents  a 
small  fancy  bracket  m.ade  in  this  manner,  to  bo 
hung  upon  the  Avail  to  support  an  ornamental 
vase,  image,  or  other  article.  The  same  material  is 
worked  into  picture  frames,  c.ard  baskets,  work 
boxes  and  other  similar  things.  The  butternut  is 
easily  sawed  into  slices  by  holding  it  in  the  end  of 
a  stick  hollow'ed  out  to  receive  it,  and  h.aving  cuts 
made  partially  through  the  stick  at  proper  distances 
apart,  to  guide  the  saAV,  as  in  a  milrc  box.  Strong, 
thick  glue  is  needed  to  hold  the  slices  together,  and 


BUTTERNUT  BRACKET. 


the  work  looks  nicer  if  the  pieces  be  smoothed 
with  a  file  and  sand-paper,  before  putting  them  to¬ 
gether.  We  h.ave  seen  a  very  pretty  shaAvl  pin 
m’ade  of  a  single  .slice  of  butternut  shell,  mount¬ 
ed  Avith  silver,  and,  very  beautiful  bracelets,  mads 


350 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


fNOVBMBER, 


by  stringing  several  on  elastic  cords.  When  new 
nuts  are  made  use  of,  the  work  is  apt  to  crack  in  a 
dry  atmosphere,  hence  old  ones  are  preferable. 
It  will  be  pleasant  work  for  winter  evenings  to  or¬ 
nament  tlie  parlor  with  specimens  M  this  work. 


- - - 


Wooden  Shoes,  Clogs,  etc. 


Wooden  shoes  have  never  been  an  American 
“institution;”  and  to  the  mind  of  an  American 
they  suggest  o^ily  the  elumsy  economy*and  barbar¬ 
ism  of  the  uncultured  peasantry  who  live  and  labor, 
without  the  wish  or  abiiity  to  rise,  in  the  full  glare 
of  European  civilization.  In  fact  it  would  seem  to 
many  quite  as  reasonable  to  suggest  to  an  Indian 
to  change  his  moccasins  for  “  clogs,”  such  as  we 
give  a  picture  of,  as  to  commend  their  use  or  m.auu- 
faeture  to  the  readers  of  the  Agriculturist.  We  have 
long  been  awake  to  certain  advantages  which  they 
possess  over  shoes  of  any  other  material,  and  have 
recently  ascertained  that  a  large  business  is  done  in 
them  in  this  city.  W^e  have  seen  with  no  little 
satisfaction  that  a  good  many  young  girls  and 
women,  who  have  to  live  and  go  about  in  the  damp 
alleys  and  cellars  of  this  city,  and  whose  feet  other¬ 
wise  would  surelj'  be  wet  and  cold  in  winter,  wear 
these  shoes,  and  so  have  warm,  dry  feet  at  all  times. 
This  then  is  one  of  the  advantages  of  wooden  shoes; 
another  is,  they  are  very  cheap,  and  another,  they 
wear  a  great  while.  Offset  against  these  merits, 
that  they  are  not  handsome,  and  make  a  noise  when 
the  wearer  goes  upon  a  hard  walk,  or  floor.  These 
demerits  weigh  very  little  against  their  use,  by  both 
men  and  women  about  the  house,  grounds  and  out- 
buiidings.  For  men  they  are  most  excellent  to 
wear  while  working  in  the  stables,  or  for  going 
about  in  wet  and  thawing  w'eather.  For  women, 
nothing  that  they  can  wear  wilt  so  effectually  pro¬ 
tect  their  feet  against  the  cold  and  dampness  of 
wet  floors  or  cellars,  or  cold  or  wet  feet  under  any 
circumstances.  The  German  felt  shoes,  or  those 
which  the  Germans  make  out  of  carpeting,  or  of 
rag-carpet  materials,  are  very  good  to  keep  the  feet 
warm  in  dry  places,  but  wet  through  very  easily, 
and  are  then  useless  until  dried. 

We  do  not  thus  commend  wooden  shoes,  in 
order  to  favor  any  manufacturer,  for  we  know 
of  no  place  where  they  can  be  bought  at  wholesale 
on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic.  We  think,  however, 
that  the  manuflicture  of  the  article  might  be 
conducted  with  great  profit,  for  among  the  Ger¬ 
mans  and  French  at  least,  of  our  naturalized  citizens, 
there  would  be  a  ready  market  from  the  regard  they 
had  for  them  at  home,  and  their  comfortable  recol¬ 
lections  of  warm  feet  there,  and  eold  ones  here,  very 
likely.  No  shoe  of  leather,  unless  it  be  fur-lined, 
can  be  made  so  warm.  And  it  seems  to  us  that 
sensible  Americans  would  soon  adopt  them  for  the 
reasons  above  enumerated.  The  shoes  may  be  made 
of  white  pine,  white-wood,  bass-wood,  or  probably 
any  liglit  strong  wood.  Even  the  largest  sizes  of 
the  pattern  we  sketch,  weigh  only  a  pound  each. 


About  Keeping  Warm. 


Warm  Clothing. — Wearing  fabrics  are  warm  in 
proportion  as  they  are  loose  in  texture,  yet  close 
enongli,  and  of  fine,  elastic  m.aterials.  Silk,  firm, 
close,  non-elastic,  as  usually  woven,  is  almost  im¬ 
pervious  to  air,  as  may  be  tested  by  trying  to  blow 
through  it,  and  silk  garments  have  little  warmth. 
Flannels  are  elastic  and  loose,  and  thej'  are  warm ; 
if  made  of  fine  wool,  they  are  very  warm;  they 


offer  little  resistance  to  the  breath.  The  hands 
will  freeze  in  kid  gloves  in  winter,  yet  one,  by 
blowing  into  them,  can  hardly  force  any  air  through, 
while  woolen  mittens,  or  buckskin  gloves  however 
tightly  sewed,  may  be  blown  through  very  easily. 
This  is  very  simple,  yet  it  seems  surprising  to  most 
people  that  clothing  which  will  let  the  cold  air 
through  so  easily,  will  afford  the  best  protection 
against  the  cold.  The  reason  of  this  is,  that  the 
fine  loose  fabrics  enclose  .air  within  them,  and  this 
air  being  more  or  less  entangled  by  the  fine  shreds 
and  particles  of  the  fabric,  becomes  as  it  were,  part 
of  the  clothing,  and  thus  the  body  is  wrapped  in  a 
covering  of  air,  which  is  one  of  the  best  non-con¬ 
ductors  of  heat  (or,  popularly,  of  cold)  known. 

Underclothing  may  be  of  such  loosely  woven  stuff 
as  to  be  quite  unfit  for  external  wear,  both  by  rea¬ 
son  of  its  fr.ailty,  and  becausethe  wind  would  blow 
through  it  too  easily,  and  the  rain  would  dash 
through  ;  but  being  protected  by  closer  and  firmer 
outside  garments,  it  is  all  the  better  on  account  of 
its  light,  loose  character,  to  confine  the  natural 
heat  and  keep  the  body  warm. 

Warm  Houses. — The  same  principles  which  apply 
to  clothing  are  equally  applicable  to  building  ma¬ 
terials.  Who  would  ever  think  of  being  comforta¬ 
ble  in  an  iron  house,  if  it  could  not  be  furred  and 
filled-in  so  as  to  make  a  warm  house  inside  of  the 
cold  one.  Tet,  iron  will  much  more  effectually 
exclude  the  outer  air  than  wood  or  brick,  or  any 
thing  made  with  mortar.  All  these  are  quite  po¬ 
rous  substances,  .and  it  is  this  veiy  porosity,  more 
perhaps  than  any  thing  else,  that  makes  the  walls 
poor  conductors  of  heat.  In  the  article  on  Ice 
Houses,  we  describe  the  warmest  cheap  walls  that 
we  can  build,  for,  to  keep  ice  from  melting,  we  must 
shut  the  heat  out,  and  this  takes  just  as  warm  a 
wall,  so  to  speak,  as  to  keep  the  heat  in.  Warm 
houses  have'a  close  external  wall  for  defense  against 
the  weather,  to  turn  both  rain  and  wind,  but  with¬ 
in  some  arrangement  for  virtually  keeping  a  coat¬ 
ing  of  air  close  to  the  wall  on  the  inside.  This,  as 
we  all  know,  is  done  by  furriug-out,  and  filling  in 
with  bricks  loosely  laid  in  mortar,  or  with  a  grout¬ 
ing  of  a  mud  mortar  and  stones,  which  answers 
equally  well,  and  latliing  and  pl.asteiing  for  a  finish. 

It  requires  much  besides  good  w.alls  to  make  a 
warm  house,  and  the  discussion  of  this  and  of 
some  of  the  other  arts  of  keeping  warm  must  be 
deferred  to  another  month. 


How  to  Make  First  Yeast. 


In  answer  to  an  inquiry  in  a  previous  number  of 
the  Agriculturist,  “How  to  make  3’east  without 
h.aving  any  to  commence  with,”  “  Young  Badger,” 
Appleton,  Wis.,  sends  the  following  directions : 
“In  an  earthen  vessel,  as  a  bowl  or  pitcher,  holding 
1  quart,  put  1  pint  of  milkwarm  water,  1  even  tea¬ 
spoonful  of  salt,  and  stir  in  flour  enough  to  make 
it  as  thick  as  ordinary  pancake  b.atter.  Place  the 
dish  in  a  kettle  of  milkwarm  water,  and  keep  it  .at 
as  even  temperature  .as  possible  from  4  to  6  hours. 
After  it  rises,  take  4  quarts  of  milkwarm  water, 
mix  with  it  as  much  flour,  with  the  prepared  yeast, 
as  can  be  stirred  h.andily  with  a  spoon,  let  it  stand 
an  hour  at  the  same  heat  as  the  yeast,  then  add  flour 
and  knead  into  loaves.  Let  it  stand  in  a  warm 
place  until  it  rises,  from  to  1  hour,  then  bake.” 

Aiiotltcr  Kecipe. — Contributed  by  J.  S. 
Smith,  Port  Hope,  Canada :  On  Monday  morning 
boil  2  ounces  of  fresh  hops,  in  4  quarts  of  w.ater, 
for  3^  an  hour.  Strain  it — throw  aw.ay  the  hops, 
and  let  the  liquor  cool  down  to  the  warmth  or  tem¬ 
perature  of  new  milk.  Put  in  a  tabblespoonful  of 
salt  .aud  %  a  pound  of  brown  sugar.  Take  1  pound 
of  best  flour,  and  be.at  it  up  in  a  bowl,  with  enough 
of  the  liquor  to  make  a  soft  p.aste  or  batter,  then 
pour  the  batter  and  the  rest  of  the  liquor  together 
into  a  large  earthen  vessel,  and  stir  them  well  to¬ 
gether.  Let  it  stand  in  a  moderately  warm  place, 
.and  stir  it  every  2  hours  until  Wednesday  morning. 
Then  add  3  pounds  of  boiled  potatoes  mashed  fine 
Stand  it  in  the  same  place,  and  stir  it  as  before,  un¬ 
til  Thursday  morning,  or  until  it  ceases  to  ferment. 


Then  pass  it  through  a  sieve,  aud  bottle  it.  It  is 
now  ready  for  use,  and  in  a  cool  place  will  keep 
for  several  weeks.  Shake  the  bottle  before  using. 
1  tablespoonful  is  enough  for  an  ordinary  sized  loaf. 


Have  lee  Next  Summer. 


Housewives,  shall  you  need  ice  next  summer  ? 
Will  you  not  be  very  glad  to  have  the  means  at 
hand  to  keep  fresh  meat  several  days,  to  keep 
cre.am  sweet,  and  to  preserve  m.any  perishable  arti¬ 
cles  of  food  ?  Do  you  not  wish  to  see  harfi  butter 
on  the  table,  and  to  have  cool  w.ater  in  the  pitcher, 
and  to  be  able,  now  .and  then,  to  offer  ice  cream  .and 
other  icy  luxuiles  to  your  friends  ?  Then  insist 
upon  having  .an  ice  house  built  and  filled  this  win¬ 
ter,  and  you  may  enjoy  all  we  suggest ;  should  the 
head  of  the  family  plead  ignorance,  that  he  does 
not  'know  how  to  build  the  ice  house,  you  must 
know,  and  show  him. 

First,  the  ground  selected  must  be  dry,  .and  out 
of  the  -way  of  floods,  if  near  a  stream,  for  if  water 
stands  in  contact  with  the  ice,  it  will  melt  away, 
almost  “like  the  morning  cloud.”  It  is  well  to 
have  the  ice  house  on  the  north  side  of  a  hill,  or  of 
a  house  or  big  tree.  If  close  to  the  house  and  a 
cool-room  can  be  made  between  ^  and  the  house, 
that  will  be  found  very  convenient,  and  the  ice 
house  wall  next  the  cool-room  need  not  be  made 
so  thick  as  on  the  other  sides,  in  fact,  a  double 
boarding,  with  an  inch  of  space  between,  is 
enough.  It  is  well  to  dig  out  the  ground  so  as  to 
set  the  house  a  little  lower  than  the  general  level, 
and  it  may  be  several  feet  lower  if  convenient. 
The  bottom  ought  to  slope  to  the  middle  or  to  one 
side,  and  to  be  grouted,  that  is,  laid  with  broken 
stones  -which  are  covered  with  hydraulic  cement 
mortar,  poured  over  and  in  among  them,  and 
smoothed  off  even  on  the  surface.  The  inclination 
of  the  bottom  should  le.ad  to  a  sealed  drain,  so  pro- 
teeted  that  it  c.an  not  be  stopped  up  by  accident,  or 
by  sawdust.  It  is  important  that  the  drainage  of  .an 
ice  house,  whether  the  bottom  be  cemented  as  we 
have  described  or  not,  should  be  perfect,  and  that 
a  circulation  of  air  should  not  take  place  through 
the'dr.ain.  This  is  easily  affected  by  having  the 
end  of  the  drain,  (a  round  tile,)  rise  2  or  3  inches 
in  a  cemented  depression,  or  b.asin,  and  turning 
over  it  a  common  flower  pot  with  the  hole  stopped. 

A  house  10  X 10,  or  12  x  12  feet,  .and  8  feet  from 
the  bottom  to  the  eaves,  with  a  half-piteh  roof,  is 
about  what  is  wanted  on  .an  ordinary  farm,  and 
will  hold  and  keep  more  ice  than  is  usuallj' needed. 
The  sides  should  be  10  inches  thick,  the  frame  being 
of  8-inch  uprights,  of  2-inch  plank,  set  4  on  a  side, 
(the  end  ones  being  a  foot  from  the  outside  cor¬ 
ners,)  upon  sills  of  the  same  width.  The  inside 
boarding  should  be  of  cheap  inch  stuff.  The  out¬ 
side  m.aj'  be  ciapboarded,  or  boarded  up  and  down 
.and  battened.  Dry  sawdust,  planing-mill  shavings, 
or  dry  spent  t.an-bark,  may  be  used  to  fill  in  between 
the  outer  aud  inner  boarding,  and  the  filling  should 
be  settled  down  solid.  The  plates  may  be  of  2  inch 
plank ;  the  r.afters  4  on  each  side,  of  2-iuch  plank, 
6  inches  wide.  They  should  be  boarded  outside 
and  inside,  and  the  space  filled  with  shavings.  The 
roof  should  be  thatched  or  shingled,  and  the  gable 
ends  double  boarded  and  filled  like  the  sides.  The 
door  should  be  in  one  of  the  ends,  4  to  6  feet  from 
the  ground,  and  4  feet  high  ;  and  close  to  the  peak 
there  should  be  a  sliding  shutter  for  a  ventilator. 
There  should  be  a  flooring  not  nailed  down  but 
laid  firmly,  to  support  the  ice. 

The  sides  may  rest  on  the  grouting,  or  on  a  stone 
under  pinning.  When  they  are  laid,  thej'  should 
have  a  coat  of  coal  tar  .all  over,  and  when  the  house 
is  done,  sawdust  stirred  up  with  coal  tar  should  be 
filled  into  all  the  crevices  and  holes  near  the  ground 
outside  and  inside,  and  earth  heaped  up  around 
the  sides  and  trodden  down.  Paint  the  sides  with 
tar  as  high  .as  the  earth  comes.  How  to  fill  an  ice 
house  will  be  a  subject  for  our  December  number. 

Straw  Icb  Houses. — Where  there  is  a  great 
abundance  of  straw,  ice  may  be  preserved  through¬ 
out  the  year,  if  p.acked  in  a  compact  mass  and  well 
covered  with  straw,  perfect  drainage  being  secured. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


851 


^ood  I*remiiiin.s — Wliicli  One  4bi- 


Yon? 

How  many  Boys  and  Girls  are  trying,  or  going  to  try 
for  a  premium  this  autumn  and  winter?  Tliere  are  sev¬ 
eral  things  you  would  like,  offered  in  the  list  on  another 
page.  A  great  many  very  young  people,  little  boys  and 
girls  even,  have  obtained  the  Great  Dictionaries,  the 
Drawing  instruments,  etc.,  etc.  We  always  take  peculiar 
pleasure  in  sending  premitims  to  young  people.  They 
make  good  and  successful  canvassers,  and  they  thus  learn 
business  habits.  The  one  who  shows  the  paper  to  a  few 
people, even,  gains  at  least  a  little  knowledge  of  business. 

About  Ooing'  to  Scliool. 

Seed  time  and  harvest,  on  tiie  farm,  are  over  for  this 
year,  but  as  autumn  advances,  the  boys  and  girls’  spring 
time  comes  on — the  season  for  attending  school  and  put¬ 
ting  in  seed  for  the  thought  cro|).  Fifteen  or  twenty 
years  from  now,  the  children  of  the  pre.sent  day  will  be 
the  active  men  and  women,  and  the  fruits  they  bear,  their 
success  in  life,  as  well  as  the  condition  of  the  world, 
will  depend  on  how  they  improve  their  opportunities. 

Tliere  are  a  few  particulars  which  every  scholar  will 
find  most  important,  and  we  trust  all  the  young  readers 
of  the  Agriculturist  will  bear  them  in  mind  this  winter. 
Be  Punctual. — The  ancients  represented  Time  by  the  fig¬ 
ure  of  an  Old  Man  havfng  only  one  lock  of  hair,  and  that 
on  his  forehead,  signifying  that  the  right  moment  is  to  be 
seized,  or  opportunity  is  lost.  The  unpunctual  are 
alwa»’s  just  too  far  behind  for  taking  hold,  and  so 
time  keeps  ahead  despite  all  their  endeavors _ Be  Regu¬ 

lar.  ~X  man  who  eats  three  meals  one  day,  half  a  one 
the  next,  and  then  omits  a  day  or  two  altogether,  will  not 
grow  fat ;  neither  will  the  mind  thrive  if  fed  irregularly. 
No  trifle  should  prevent  attendance  at  school.  Each 
day’s  study  is  worth  at  least  five  dollars  in  cash  ;  if  any 
doubt  this  let  them  read  the  proof  in  figures  which 
dp  not  lie,  in  the  December  Agriculturist,  of  1860. 
(Vol.  XVIII,  page  372)  ..  .Be  Obedient. — Rules  are  for  the 
benefit  of  the  pupils.  Without  them  order  and  improve¬ 
ment  would  be  at  an  end.  Few  teachers  will  require 
anything  unreasonable  ;  what  appears  so  to  you  will  usu¬ 
ally  be  found  all  right  after  a  few  years  of  experience. 
The  man  at  the  mast  head  of  a  ship  can  see  further  than 
the  sailor  on  deck ;  the  teacher  has  climbed  higher  in 
life  and  can  judge  wliat  is  best,  more  certainly  than  those 
who  are  younger  ...Be  Thoughtful.— Ho  not  be  satisfied 
with  repeating  the  words  of  a  lesson,  or  getting  the  an¬ 
swer  to  a  problem.  Learn  tlie  meaning  of  every  word 
and  sentence,  and  discover  the  reason  for  the  rules  in 
arithmetic.  Sucli  exercise  will  make  the  brains  grow 
and  enable  the  pupil  to  make  rules,  and  perhaps  write 
books  for  himself.  Whoever  has  brain  power  will  suc¬ 
ceed  best  in  any  vocation,  and  it  can  be  gained  only  by 
thinking.  Finally,  remember  that  learning  is  a  possession 
of  which  a  man  can  not  be  robbed,  which  will  bring 
more  enjoyment  than  wealth,and  strive  to  gain  your  share. 

A  Aesson  ibi*  All  to  Aeavn. 

Selfishness  is  rebuked  by  every  thing  in  nature.  Ani¬ 
mals,  plants,  clouds,  brooks  and  stones — all  give  some¬ 
thing  for  the  benefit  of  the  world  around  them.  Tlie  tree 
is  nourished  by  the  earth,  moisture,  air,  and  sunlight. 
It  gives  shade  and  fruit  to  man  and  animals,  sustenance 
to  countless  insects,  purity  to  the  air,  stores  up  light  and 
heat  derived  from  the  sun.  to  impart  them  again  when 
used  for  fuel,  and  repays  to  earth  nourishment  for  future 
vegetation,  in  Ihe  decaying  leaves  which  it  sheds  in  au¬ 
tumn.  Springs  are  fed  with  water  from  the  clouds; 
they  carry  fertility  along  their  banks,  furnish  a  home  for 
myriads  of  living  creatures,  give  power  for  the  use  of 
man,  unite  to  bear  his  shi|)s  to  the  ocean,  and  are  con¬ 
stantly  returning  to  the  air  the  moisture  received  from 
it.  Animals  return  to  the  earth  and  air  all  the  matter 
they  receive,  besides  giving  support  or  comfort  to  others. 

A  Cliinese  Story. 

Two  short-sighted  men,  Ching  and  Chang,  were  always 
quarreling  as  to  which  of  them  could  see  best ;  and  as 
they  heard  there  was  to  be  a  tablet  erected  at  the  gate  of 
a  neighboring  temple  they  determined  to  vi.sit  it  together 
on  a  given  day  and  put  the  visual  pow  ers  of  each  to  the 
test.  But  each  desiring  to  take  advantage  of  the  other, 
Ching  went  immediately  to  the  temple,  and  looking  quite 
close  to  Ihe  ttiblet  saw  an  inscription  with  the  words, 

“  To  the  great  man  of  the  past  and  the  future.”  Chang 
also  w'ent  prying  yet  closer,  and  in  addition  to  Ihe  in¬ 
scription.  “  To  the  great  man  of  the  past  and  the  future,” 
read  from  smaller  characters,  “  Erected  by  the  fomily  of 
Ling  in  honor  of  the  great  man.”  On  the  day  appointed, 
standing  at  a  distance  from  which  neither  could  read, 
Ching  exclaimed,  “  The  inscription  is,  ‘  To  the  great 


man  of  the  pa.st  and  the  future.’  ”  “  True,”  said  Chang, 
“  but  you  have  left  out  a  part  of  the  inscription,  which  I 
can  read  but  you  can  not,  and  which  is  written  in  small 
characters:  ’  Erected  by  the  family  of  Ling  in  honor  of 
the  great  man.’”  “There  is  no  sucli  inscription,”  said 
Ching.  "  There  is,”  said  Chang.  So  they  waxed  wroth, 
and,  after  abusing  one  another,  agreed  to  refer  the  matter 
to  the  high-priest  of  the  temple.  He  heard  their  story, 
and  quietly  said,  “  Gentlemen,  there  is  no  tablet  to  read  ; 
it  was  taken  into  the  interior  of  the  temple  yesterday.” 

A  Fri^litened.  'WorScma.ii. 

Dr.  Buckland,  a  celebrated  English  Geologist,  was  ac¬ 
customed  to  closely  watch  the  masons  engaged  in  re¬ 
pairing  any  public  buildings  in  which  he  was  interested, 
to  see  that  no  defective  or  unsuitable  materials  were 
used.  On  one  occasion  workmen  were  repairing  a  tow¬ 
er  of  Christ’s  Church,  Oxford,  and  the  Doctor  had  reason 
to  suspect  that  all  was  not  done  properly,  but  he  could 
not  climb  by  the  slender  scaffolding  to  the  high  turrets  ; 
so  he  stationed  himself  at  a  neighboring  window  w  ith  a 
good  telescope,  which  he  had  used  to  examine  distant 
geological  sections.  At  last  the  mason  working,  as  he 
thought,  far  above  the  observation  of  man,  put  in  a  faulty 
bit  of  stone;  the  learned  Doctor  on  the  lookout  below, 
detected  it  through  the  telescope,  and  going  to  the  foot 
of  the  tower,  frightened  the  man  half  out  of  his  wits  by 
ordering  him  to  “  bring  down  directly  that  bad  bit  of 
stone  he  had  just  built  into  tlie  turret.” 

A  Valiia.l>le  Peach. 

The  writer  recently  saw  a  single  peach  sold  for  $42.50. 
It  was  of  good  but  not  extraordinary  size,  nor  was  the 
flavor  better  than  that  of  many  peaches  in  the  market. 
It  occurred  thus :  A  Sumlay  School  were  holding  a 
Missionary  meeting.  After  the  usual  .speeches  and  col¬ 
lection,  a  young  gentleman,  one  of  the  scholars,  slated 
that  he  had  something  to  say  about  a  peach.  He  then  re¬ 
lated  how  a  lady  had  planted  a  peach  pit  five  years  before, 
and  after  properly  caring  for  the  tree,  had  this  year  gath¬ 
ered  the  first  fruits,  of  which  he  had  one.  Then,  after 
some  very  pertinent  remarks  on  the  reasonablene/ss  of 
expecting  good  fruit  from  children  as  well  as  from  trees 
on  which  much  pains  had  been  bestowed,  he  presented 
the  peach  to  the  Missionai-y  Society.  A  gentleman  im¬ 
mediately  offered  a  dollar  for  it;  the  male  Bible  class 
offered  $5,  and  receiving  it,  presented  it  again  to  the  So¬ 
ciety.  It  was  then  bought  and  presented  to  the  Society 
twice  at  $1  each  time,  then  for  $5  twice,  and  finally  the 
teacher  of  the  female  Bible  class  offered  $5  for  it  on  con¬ 
dition  that  he  miglit  divide  it  among  his  pupils,  and  keep 
the  pit  himself  to  plant,  promising  to  give  the  first  fruits  j 
to  the  same  Society.  The  male  Bible  class  again  made 
a  higher  offer ;  the  other  teacher  responded,  and  after  a 
friendly  contest  it  was  awarded  to  him  for  $25.30,  or  $42.50 
in  all,  and  if  the  pit  should  produce' fruit,  it  will  no  doubt 
bring  a  still  further  income. 

Honesty  tbe  Best  Policy. 

A  friend  recently  related  the  following  little  incident 
illustrating  the  above  proverb.  A  gentleman  of  his  ac¬ 
quaintance  took  passage  on  the  steamer  from  Boston  to 
New-York,  and  upon  applying  for  a  state  room,  was  told 
that  all  were  engaged.  He  was  much  disappointed,  and 
requested  the  captain  to  take  his  name,  so  that  if  any 
room  should  happen  to  be  left  vacant,  he  could  take  it. 
Late  in  the  evening  he  called  at  the  captain’s  office  and 
was  told  that  he  could  not  be  accommodated.  He  then 
paid  for  a  berth  in  the  common  cabin,  but  on  receiving 
jiis  change  found  he  had  twenty  five  cents  too  much, 
which  he^immediately  returned.  The  captain  looked  at 
the  money,  then  at  him,  and  after  a  litile  thought  said, 
“Mr.  M.,  I’ll  try  and  accommodate  you,”  and  gave  him 
a  berth  in  his  own,  one  of  the  best  in  the  whole  boat. 

Answers  to  Problems  nnd  Puzzles. 

The  following  are  answers  to  the  puzzles,  etc.,  in  the 
October  number,  page  319.  No.  175.  Arithmetical  Ques¬ 
tion,  has  not  been  answered  by  any,  and  is  left  over  for 

another  month _ No.  176.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Ape  pole 

light  address  gives  ez  axe  s  two  awls  o’s  eye  et ;  or,  A 

polite  address  gives  easy  access  to  all  society _ No.  177. 

Charade. — Liberty  and  justice...  No.  llS.— Illustrated 
Rebus. — Hook  can  measure  awl  the  miss  chief  once  in 
will  caws?  or,  'Who  can  measure  all  the  mischief  one 
sin  will  cause? — Aug.  No.,  page  256,  and  October  No., 
page  320,  turn  the  pictures  half  round,  and  see  the  faces 
clearly  shown. 

A  Ijong-  Piszzle. 

In  the  next  column  we  present  a  Hieroglyphical  letter 
for  the  young  folks  to  puzzle  out  during  this  month. 
This  occupies  so  much  room  that  no  more  problems  can 
be  inserted  ;  but  it  will  probably  last  for  some  time.  I 


352  '  AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST.  [Notoiibek, 


HAVING  A  GOOD  TI]\[E.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  AgrictiUnrir.t. 


A  ^iSJoriosis  Hide. 

Here  is  a  joyous  ride  !  No  millionaire  on  FiftirAvenue 
with  las  prancing  blood  liorscs  and  splendid  carriage  can 
Jiave  half  so  good  a  time  as  these  liappy  ehildren  are 
enjoying  on  their  log  pony  in  tlie  western  woods. 
No  horse  can  travel  so  swiftly  as  they  “play”  their 
iiorse  is  going,  and  all  tlie  fine  places  they  visit,  and 
tlie  adventures  tlicy  meet  in  iinaginalion  bring  them 
equal  or  more  pleasure  than  they  will  find  in  after  years 
if  they  sirould  cliancc  to  become  travelers.  Wilhout 
knowing  it  lliey  have  tlie  key  which  unlocks  one  of  the 
richest  stores  of  earthly  happiness,  that  is  an  active  im¬ 
agination.  It  can  build  lionses,  lay  out  farms,  cross 
oceans,  climb  mountains,  conquer  cities,  rule  kingdoms, 
make  gold  fi  om  stones,  and  change  the  rudest  things  into 
the  costliest  treasures.  But  this  same  faculty  of  mind 
which  brings  so  much  pleasure  often  needs  watching  ami 
restraining.  I.ikc  a  spirited  horse  it  may'  run  away  with 
its  owner.  When  a  young  iierson  pictures  to  himself  all 
the  pleasures  of  wealth,  “makes  believe  ”  that  in  some 
way  he  will  have  them  without  working,  by  tlie  death  of 
some  unknown  rich  relative,  or  finding  a  full  pocket  book, 
or  drawing  a  prize  in  a  lottery,  tlien  his  imagination  is 
preparing  liim  for  discontent  willi  his  present  situation, 
aversion  to  labor,  vain  wishes,  restlessness  and  unhappi¬ 
ness.  Still  worse  than  this  is  the  habit  of  allowing  the 
fancy  to  sketch  pictures  of  forbidden  pleasure ;  it  is  a 
long  step  toward  outbreaking  sin.  He  who  commands 
his  thoughts  and  keeps  them  pure,  will  have  little  difficul¬ 
ty  in  resisting  otlier  temptations.  “  Keep  thy  heart,  for 
out  of  ij  are  the  issues  of  life,”  said  tlie  wisest  of  men. 

A  TnnsTWOnTiiY  Poo.— ,4  gentleman  in  Enginnd,  re¬ 
lates  Ihe  following  anredote  of  )iif  ilog,  |l  appears  that 


for  a  year  or  two  foxes  had  been  very  plenty  in  that 
neighborhood,  and  had  made  great  liavoc  among  Ihe 
poultry  and  their  eggs.  One  lien  seemed  determined  to 
secure  the  safety  of  lier  treasures,  for  day  by  day  she 
marched  boldly  into  the  dog’s  kennel,  and  deposiled  an 
egg  in  the  corner.  The  dog  was  not  atTronted  by  this 
liberty  taken  with  his  house,  but  seemed  to  understand 
all  about  the  matter,  for  as  each  egg  wa.s  laid,  he  care¬ 
fully  took  it  up  in  his  mouth,  carried  it  as  far  lojivard  the 
house  as  his  chain  would  permit  him  to  go,  where  it  was 
taken  in  eliarge  by  the  hou.sckeeper,  who  always  regu¬ 
larly  rewarded  him  for  his  attention  and  honesty. 

How  they  TlJsc«l  to  Teles;*'aFl». 

Telegraphing  by  various  methods  was  known  long  be¬ 
fore  Professor  Morse  invented  the  way  of  sending  mes¬ 
sages  by  lightning.  The  shepherds  among  the  mountains 
of  Montenegro,  in  Turkey,  communicated  news  very 
rapidly  by  shouting  it  from  peak  to  peak.  It  is  related 
that  when  one  of  them  felt  lonely,  he  set  up  a  peculiar 
cry  which  could  be  heard  at  a  great  distance,  signifying 
tliercby  that  he  wished  to  talk  with  some  one.  It  was 
usually  soon  heard  by  somebody  in  the  neighborhood, 
and  a  conversation  was  at  once  commenced,  which  was 
often  joined  by  others,  who  clianced  to  be  near  enough 
to  hear,  and  thus  the  news  of  the  day  became  generally 
known.  A  traveler  says  that  atone  time  he  wanted  his 
mule  which  was  some  ten  miles  distant.  Accordingly 
he  yelled  out,  “  Ho  !  ho  !  you  people  there  in  the  village 
of  Brelizzu  !  High  up  in  the  mountains  of  Glenbotich, 
by  the  great  beech  tree,  with  Ihe  withered  boughs,  my 
little  lad  Yonkois  keeping  my  while-footed  mule.  I,ct 
him  know  that  he  is  to  come  down  with  It  ns  fast  ns  ho 
can  ”  linmedinlely  some  living  culiu  luok  up  ids  words. 


repeating  them  exactly  ;  and  so  the  message  went  until 
it  reached  tlie  boy,  and  the  mule  was  soon  brought  to  liim. 

Beacon  fires  were  the  ancient  mode  of  telegraphy  in 
Great  Britain,  and  in  an  act  of  the  Scottish  Parliament, 
of  HIS,  it  is  directed  that  “One  bale  or  faggot  sliall  be 
tl  e  warning  of  the  approach  of  Ihe  English  in  any  man¬ 
ner,  two  bales  that  they  arc  coming  ititlred,  and  four  bales 
lilazing  beside  each  other,  that  Ihe  enemy  are  in  great 
force.”  Subsequently  there  was  introiluccd  a  system  of 
telegraphing  by  signals  made  with  an  apparatus  liaving 
large  arms  somevvluat  like  a  windmill,  called  a  sen  a- 
phore.  The  diflerent  positions  of  the  arms  represented 
letters  of  Ihe  alphabet  and  words.  Numbers  of  these 
were  erected  on  elevations  as  far  apart  as  could  be  scon 
with  a  telescope,  anddhus  news  could  be  sent  from  Do¬ 
ver  to  London,  in  ten  minutes.  The  semaphore  was  of 
use  only  in  clear  weather.  Occasionally  curious  inci¬ 
dents  occurred,  owing  to  tlie  sudden  stoppage  of  its 
working.  Wlien  tlie  Duke  of  Wellington  was  fighting 
the  French,  in  Spain,  every  body  was  anxiously  looking 
for  news.  One  day  the  semaphore  transmitted  to  Lon¬ 
don, the  alarming  message,  “  Wellington  defeated.”  At 
once  there  was  great  commotion  ;  rumors  spread  that 
there  had  been  great  losses  of  men  and  artillery  ;  stocks 
went  down  rapidly,  and  tlie  Government  were  quite  be¬ 
wildered.  It  turned  out  liowever.  that  just  as  the  word 
“defeated”  had  passed  along,  a  sudden  mist  had  come 
on  at  some  part  of  the  line,  and  prevented  sending  the 
remainder  of  the  message— wlien  it  cleared,  the  whole 
news  read,  “  AVellington  defeated  the  French.” 

Other  similar  methods  have  been  used  in  different 
countries.  On  ship-board  flags  are  used  to  make  signals 
for  comniuniciiling  with  distant  vessels.  At  another  time 
wc  ipay  speak  of  signals  u-sed  in  the  anny  duiipg  the  wav, 


1865.J 


AMERICAN  AG-RIGULTURIST. 


353 


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354 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Novembbk, 


American  Musical  Instruments. 


The  inventive  genius  of  the  American  people  is  ever 
active,  never  resting ;  it  embraces  in  its  grasp  the  merest 
trifles  and  tlie  mightiest  conceptions,  from  a  toy  to  point 
a  lead  pencil,  to  a  lever  to  raise  a  pyramid.  That  what¬ 
ever  has  been  done  can  be  improved  on,  and  wiiatever  is 
needed  for  the  good  of  the  human  family  can  be  produced, 
are  American  dogmas.  They  are  so  purely  indigenous 
to  the  soil,  that  all  who  seek  asylum  here  find  new 
springs  of  action,  new  incentives  to  ambition,  and  a 
broadening.of  the  mind  which  had*been  dwarfed  by  the 
cramping  influences  of  small  nationalities. 

Inventive  genius  has  not  merely  been  directed  to  the 
physical  needs  of  the  people  ;  the  necessities  of  our  life 
have  had  their  champions,  and  the  intellectual  luxuries, 
which  are  at  once  its  solace  and  its  ornament,  have  been 
fostered  and  developed  to  a  degree  that  sliames  the  ex¬ 
perience  of  the  old  world.  In  the  short  space  of  thirty 
years  we  have  become  manufacturers  of  our  own 
musical  Instruments;  in  this  we  as!^ nothing  of  Europe 
now;  we  have  learned  all  she  knows,  and  something 
more  besides,  and  we  have  changed  the  course  of  trade 
which  was  always  from  East  to  West,  to  from  West  to 
East. 

There  is  scarcely  a  musical  instrument  wliich  we  do 
not  make,  and  with  scarcely  an  exception,  our  manufac¬ 
ture  equals,  and  in  some  cases  surpasses  the  workman¬ 
ship  of  the  European  models.  Our  flutes  already  rival 
those  of  tlie  English,  wliile  they  surpass  in  richness  of 
tone  and  elegance  of  workmanship  the  finest  made  in 

Germany.  Our  harps,  in  all  points,  tone,  elegance,  finish 

» 

and  mechanical  appliances  are  altogether  unsurpassed. 
Our  Brass  instruments  in  their  variety  and  excellence 
are  fully  equal  to  those  of  France,  while  our  Guitars  in 
all  points  of  workmanship,  and  in  durability  in  this  cli¬ 
mate,  are  preferred  to  the  finest  specimens  from  Spain  or 
Italy.  In  the  manufacture  of  Violins  we  have  made 
rapid  strides  toward  excellence,  and  although  very  far 
behind  the  great  old  makers  whose  names  have  a  world 
wide  fame,  we  can  claim  a  fair  equality  with  most  of  the 
modern  European  violins.  In  Reed  Instruments,  such 
as  Melodeons  and  Parlor  Organs,  America  has  no  equal 
in  the  world.  These  instruments  were  literally  created 
here,  their  superiority  is  everywhere  acknowledged,  and 
we  are  satisfied  that  when  some  enlightened  community 
shall  decide  to  spend  $6O.OO0  or  $70,000  upon  the  building 
of  a  great  organ,  and  shall  give  the  contract  at  home  and 
not  abroad,  we  sliall  have  an  organ  equal  in  every  re¬ 
spect  to  any  of  foreign  make,  and  superior  in  some 
points,  especially  in  wood  which  will  stand  the  climate. 

The  instrument,  however,  in  which  the  most  impor¬ 
tant  improvements  have  been  made,  is  the  piano-forte — 
the  instrument  which  is  most  popular  throughout  the 
world. 

Tlie  piano-forte  was,  of  course,  invented  somewhere, 
although  it  was  more  properly  a  gradual  improvement 
from  one  thing  to  another  than  an  invention  in  its  pres¬ 
ent  form.  There  are  two  claimants  for  the  honor  of 
creating  the  original  instrument,  and  both  have  strong 
supporters.  By  one  party  it  is  attributed  to  Christofali, 
a  Paduan;  by  the  other  to  Schroederof  Dresden,  Sax¬ 
ony.  We  need  not  stop  to  discuss  the  rival  claims.  The 
date  of  the  invention  is  said  to  be  1711,  but  the  piano 
really  rose  but  little  above  the  dignity  of  a  Harpsichord 
until  half  a  century  later,  wlien  the  genius  of  Erard, 


followed  by  Pleyel,  Broadwood  and  Collard  developed 
its  resources  and  powers,  which,  until  then,  were  un¬ 
dreamed  of.  But  these  great  makers  did  not  exhaust  its 
powers.  There  was  something  left  for  America  to  do — 
some  art  gift  from  us  to  the  old  world,  to  be  purchased 
by  deep  thought  and  laborious  experiment,  or  won  by  the 
inspiration  of  a  fortuitous  moment. 

This  one  point,  which  has. revolutionized  the  manufac¬ 
ture  of  piano-fortes  nearly  all  over  the  world,  and  has 
added  So  greatly  to  the  power  and  the  capacity  of  the 
instrument,  is  the  system  of  overstringing  the  bass,  the 
principle  of  which  was  established,  developed  and  per- 
l^cted,  by  Steinway  &  Sons  of  New  York.  An  instru¬ 
ment  of  this  class,  overstrung,  and  vr  ith  two  bridges  in 
the  bass,  was  exhibited  by  the  Steinvvays  in  1855  at  the 
Crystal  Palace,  New  York.  There  was  a  great  compe¬ 
tition,  many  of  the  best  makers  exhibiting,  but  the  full, 
richly  sonorous  tone,  and  extraordinary  power  of  the 
Steinway  piano  gained,  by  the  unanimous  judgment  of 
the  jury,  the  first  premium  gold  medal.  Public  opinion 
coincided  perfectly  with  this  verdict,  and  the  reputation 
of  the  Steinways  was  a  settled  fact  from  that  day,  and 
their  business  increased  with  a  rapidity  altogether  un¬ 
precedented,  rising  in  twelve  years  from  the  very  hum¬ 
ble  beginning  of  one  piano  a  week,  to  a  grand  total  of 
12,000  pianos,  grand,  square  and  upright,  averaging  now 
over  2,300  per  annum.  In  1855,  at  the  Metropolitan  Fair 
in  Washington  City,  they  received  two  first  prize  medals  ; 
in  November  of  the  same  year,  the  first  prize  gold  medals 
at  the  American  Institute,  New  York  ;  in  1856  the  first 
prize  gold  medal  of  the  Maryland  Institute  at  Baltimore, 
and  the  American  Institute  at  the  Crystal  Palace  in  New 
York,  and  in  1857,  the  first  premium  gold  medal  of  the 
Maryland  Institute  again.  Altogether  in  two  years  they 
have  received  no  less  than  twenty-six  first  premiums  in 
the  shape  of  gold  and  silver  medals,  at  the  various  fairs 
and  exhibitions  in  Cincinnati,  St.  Louis,  Chicago  and 
elsewhere. 

Such  repeated  successes,  chronicled  by  the  press  and 
justified  by  their  constantly  increasing  business,  at¬ 
tracted  the  attention  of  the  whole  trade,  and  in  a  short 
time  nearly  every  piano  in  the  United  States  was  made 
upon  the  overstrung  principle. 

In  1862,  at  the  International  Exhibition  of  London,  the 
Steinway  pianos  secured  the  greatest  victory  yet  obtained 
by  them.  There  were  269  pianos  on  exhibition,  from  the 
manufactures  of  nearly  all  the  celebrated  makers  on  the 
continent  and  in  England.  The  jury  appointed  was  of 
the  highest  character,  embracing  such  names  as  Stern- 
dale  Bennett,  musical  director.  Professor  at  Cambridge  ; 
I.  R.  Black,  M.  D. ;  Fetis,  of  Belgium  ;  Ernst  Pauer,  of 
Austria  ;  Sir  F.  Gore  Ousley,  Professor  of  music  at  Ox- 
fora  ;  I.  Schiedtnayer,  instrument  maker  ;  Zollverein  ; 
the  Earl  of  Wilton  ;  Henry  Wilde,  musical  director,  and 
others  of  note  and  position.  The  most  thorough  examina¬ 
tion  was  made  of  all  the  instruments  exhibited,  am^  the 
Steinways  were  awarded  a  first-class  prize  medal,  “  For 
powerful,  clear  brilliant  tone,  and  excellent  workman¬ 
ship,  as  shown  in  grand  and  square  piano-fortes.” 

This  was  unquestionably  a  great  triumph  for  the  firm, 
and  justified  the  expressed  opinion  on  this  side  of  the 
Atlantic  of  such  artists  as  Mills,  Mason,  Heller,  Pattison, 
Timm,Maretzek,Anschutz,Eisfield  and  many  others,  who, 
in  their  open  certificates,  enumerate  among  the  chief 
points  of  excellence  presented  by  these  pianos,  ”  The 
greatest  possible  depth,  richness  and  volume  of  tone, 
combined  with  a  rare  brilliancy,  clearness,  and  perfect 
evenness  throughout  the  entire  scale,  and  above  all,  a 
surprising  duration  of  sound,  the  pure  and  sympathetic 
quality  of  which  never  changes  under  the  most  delicate 


or  the  most  powerful  touch,”  and  wh(»  declare  that  they 
prefer  them  above  all  others  for  their  own  use,  whenever 
accessible.  One  of  the  consequences  of  the  exhibition 
of  their  pianos  in  London,  as  above  stated,  is  the  adop¬ 
tion  of  their  system  of  manufacture  by  many  of  the 
European  makers,  who  announce  as  a  recommendation 
of  their  own  instruments,  “  That  they  now  make  pianos 
upon  the  same  plan  as  the  celebrated  Steinway  &  Sons  of 
New  York.”  The  eminent  European  artists,  Alfred 
Jaell,  Hans  Von  Bulow  and  Gustave  Setter  also  testify 
to  the  splendid  qualities  of  the  Steinway  pianos.  The 
foreign  press.  The  London  Times,  The  London  Illustrated 
News,  The  Paris  Constitutionnel,  The  Presse  Musicals 
and  other  papers  in  Great  Britain,  Prance,  Germany  and 
Italy,  pay  the  highest  tributes  to  their  superior  excellence, 
while  the  Vienna  press,  considered  the  highest  musical 
authority,  extolled  in  the  warmest  terms,  not  only  the  full 
round  tone  and  mechanical  excellence,  particularly  the 
overstringing  of  the  bass  in  both  grand  and  square  pianos, 
exemplified  by  the  Steinways,  but  in  an  aesthetic  point  of 
view  the  great  capacity  for  development  shown  in  their 
peculiar  method. 

The  firm  of  Steinway  &  Sons,  consisting  of  father  and 
four  sons,  came  to  America  in  the  year  1850.  Mr.  Henry 
Steinway,  the  father,  had,  previous  to  his  arrival  in  this 
country,  succe.ssfully  carried  on  a  piano  factory  in  Bruns¬ 
wick,  Germany,  for  nearly  a  quarter  of  a  century.  With 
that  adaptability  which  distinguishes  true  merit,  before 
embarking  in  business  for  themselves  in  the  New  World, 
the  Steinways  thought  it  prudent  to  become  conversant 
with  the  business  customs  of  the  American  people,  and 
therefore  did  not  inaugurate  their  house  until  1853,  when 
they  commenced  operations  in  their  own  name.  From 
that  day  to  the  present,  their  career  has  been  one  con¬ 
tinuous  success.  How  they  have  risen  from  very  small 
beginnings  to  a  business  colossal  in  its  pioportions  we 
have  already  stated.  Their  enterprise,  energy,  broad 
business  views,  and  skill,  have  placed  them  upon  the 
topmo.st  rung  of  fortune’s  ladder,  and  they  stand  to-day 
tlie  most  successful  and  extensive  manufacturers  of 
piano-fortes  in  the  world.  Independent  of  their  extensive 
home  business,  the  firm  is  now  shipping  instruments  not 
only  to  every  portion  of  the  American  continent,  but  to 
the  capitals  of  Europe  and  the  East,  thu.s  inaugurating  a 
new  and  valuable  branch  of  export  trade. 

The  factory  which  they  have  erected,  at  a  cost  of  one 
hundred  and  fifty  thousand  dollars,  stands  upon  an  entire 
block  of  ground,  bounded  by  Fourth  and  Lexington-aves. 
and  Fifty-second  and  Fifty-third  sts.  It  is  five  stories 
high,  and  is  fitted  up  with  all  the  modern  appliance.s  for 
manufacture  ;  labor-saving  machinery,  miles  of  hot-air 
pipes,  private  telegraph  to  their  down  town  salesrooms — 
in  short,  all  the  furniture  necessary  to  make  a  perfect 
factory.  In  it  are  employed  four  hundred  and  fifty  of 
the  best' workmen  at  the  highest  wages.  About  1,000 
pianos  are  constantly  in  process  of  manufacture,  includ¬ 
ing  every  variety  of  Grand,  Square,  and  Upright.  The 
slock  of  material  on  hand  is  seldom  less  than  half  a  mil¬ 
lion  dollars  in  value— a  large  amount  of  non-interest 
paying  capital,  but  inevitable  from  the  necessity  of  secur¬ 
ing  thoroughly  seasoned  material. 

Beside  their  costly  factory,  they  have  recently  erected 
a  splendid  white  marble  five-story  building  in  Four- 
teenth-st.,  between  Fourth  ave.  and  the  Academy  of 
Music.  This  they  use  exclusively  for  salesrooms,  with 
separate  apartments  for  the  Grands,  the  Squares  and  the 
Uprights.  The  front  is  rich  and  elegant  in  design,  and 
is  an  ornament  to  the  city. 

The  Steinways  own  the  ground  through  to  Fifteenth¬ 
s',  the  lot  being  one  hundred  feet  wide  on  Fifteenth-st. 
On  this  they  propose  to  erect  a  National  Concert  Hall 
and  a  Conservatory  of  Music,  which,  carried  out  in  the 
right  spirit  will  prove  a  boon  to  the  community  at  large, 
and  will  reflect  honor  upon  their  enterprise,  zeal  and 
judgment;  and  it  will  be  a  crowning  evidence  of  their 
high-toned  liberality  and  honorable  to  the  country,  and 
will  carry  down  the  name  of  Steinway  with  the  progress 
of  musical  art  and  manufacture  in  America,— Neui-Yorft 
Tribune. 


1866.] 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST. 


355 


(Adrertlsements  $1  per  line  of  Agate  space.) 

ftRAFJSiS. 

Two  years  aeo  I  first  had  the  pleasure  of  offering  the  Iona 
and  Israelis  Vines,  and  the  public  and  those  who  bought 
them  then,  did  so  chlefiy  from  my  own  representations  of  their 
excellence  as  fruits  and  of  the  good  qualities  of  the  Vines. 

It  is  time  now  to  ask ;  Have  the  representations  then  made 
and  which  appeared  so  extravagant,  been  fully  justiiled  by 
experience?  Did  these  representations  in  anif  particular 
surpass,  or  did  they  fall  short  of  representiug  the  full  mtr- 
its  of  these  kinds? 

Let  us  glance  at  their  liistory  during  the  two  years : 

Many  thousands  of  plants  were  tlieh  sold  and  not  one  pur¬ 
chaser  lias  expressed  regret  for  having  bought,  but  tliere  has 
been  a  general  expression  of  regret  for  having  bouglit  so 
few  and  tliousands  are  expressing  regret  for  not  Iiavlng  ob¬ 
tained  any.  ' 

Last  season  I  was  able  by  pretty  extensive  dissemination 
of  specimens  of  the  fruit  of  the  IONA,  to  have  its  quality 
tested  by  many  hundreds  of  those  wlio  were  able  to  appre¬ 
ciate  lilgli  excellence  of  quality.  Through  these  Individuals 
and  by  tlie  voice  ol  various  Committees  the  reputation 
of  the  Iona  especially,  became  well  known  and  established 
in  public  estimation,  and  the  number  of  first  class  vines  was 
not  sufficient  to  supply  the  demand. 

One  of  the  events  by  which  its  surpassing  merits  were 
most  clearly  exliibited,  was  its  subjection  to  tlie  severest 
possible  test  before  the  Committee  for  the  award  of  the 
Greeley  prize  of  One  Hundred  Dollars. 

The  requirements  by  the  terras  of  Mr.  Greeley’s  offer  were 
not  merely  that  the  successful  competitor  should  be  better 
than  any  other  Native  grape,  but  that  it  should  possess  the 
qualities  which  constitute  the  distinctive  excellence  of  the 
best  European  kinds  “in  pure,  rich,  vinous,  and  exhilara¬ 
ting  flavor  with  flesh  melting,  tender  and  sweet,  quite  to  the 
center,”  while  the  habit  of  the  vine  was  to  be  vigorous  and 
of  the  most  healthy,  hardy  and  productive  character.  “  In 
short,”  (says  Mr.  Greeley,)  “  what  is  sought  is  a  vine  which 
embodies  the  best  qualities  of  both  the  most  approved 
American  and  foreign  varieties  as  far  as  possible.” 

I  had  claimed  these  hlgli  qualities  for  the  Iona.  Others 
also  had  claimed  great  excellence  for  different  varieties. 

Mr.  Greeley  says  in  propounding  tlie  premium  (Sept.  1864)  : 
"It  is  time  these  claims  were  tested  and  passed  upon  by  dis¬ 
interested  and  capable  judges.”  “  As  a  humble  contribution 
to  this  end  I  hereby  offer  a  premium  of  One  Hundred  Dol¬ 
lars,”  to  be  awarded  by  Committee  of  American  Institute. 

The  Committee  in  giving  their  decision  at  the  conclusion 
of  their  interesting  report  on  the  subject  say ;  “  The  Iona  is 
the  only  grape  now  before  the  public  that  meets  the  require¬ 
ments  of  the  Greeley  prize,  and  we  accordingly  award  it. 

The  (lommlttee  consisted  of  Mr.  Peter  B.  Mead,  Mr.  R.  G. 
Pardee,  and  Mr.  Francis  Brill.  N®  one  who  is  acquainted 
with  these  gentlemen  or  has  read  their  report,  will  affirm 
that  a  (Committee  more  capable  or  better  qualified  for  the 
purpose  has  ever  presented  a  report  upon  grapes. 

The  notice  given  necessarily  allowed  but  a  short  time  to 
competitors  for  preparation.  Some  of  the  friends  of  a  cele¬ 
brated  variety  strenuously  asserted  their  belief  that  their  va¬ 
riety  could  have  taken  the  prize  if  sufficient  notice  for  pre¬ 
paration  liad  been  given.  I  at  once  re-opeued  the  case  in  fa¬ 
vor  of  any  better  grape  that  siiould  be  offered  during  the 
current  season,  or  for  a  wliole  year.  No  successful  competi¬ 
tor  has  appeared,  and  the  [iiize  remains  with  the  Iona. 

Adverse  interests  have  been  most  active  in  seeking  for 
cause  to  invalidate  any  of  my  claims  for  these  varietie.s.  Ques¬ 
tions  as  to  their  earliness  and  hardiness  were  raised,  but  set¬ 
tled  in  a  way  not  to  permit  of  their  being  again  raised— at 
least  in  the  same  manner. 

I  again  open  the  case  for  competition  on  the  same  terms 
as  be'foro  for  any  time  within  three  years. 

At  present  the  reputation  of  the  Iona  does  not  stand  upon 
any  opinion  that  I  or  any  person  may  advance  concerning 
it.  It  has  always  sought  lor  every  trial  that  may  test  its  true 
merit,  and  will  continue  to  do  so. 

A  short  account  of  some  of  the  awards  will  be  instructive 
showing  that  the  quality  of  true  grapes  is  now  understood 
and  appreciated. 

The  first  is  from  the  St.  Louis,  Mo.,  Hort.  Society,  of  which 
Mr.  I.  H.  Tice  was  chairman. 

“  The  Committee  beg  leave  to  report  that  they  found  the 
Iona  a  most  luscious  g'rape.  almost  pulpless,  of  a  rich,  vinous 
flavor,  and  differing  from  all  our  other  grapes  in  being  sweet 
to  tlie  center,  and  without  any  acidity.  The  pulp,  if  so  it  may 
be  called,  has  so  little  tenacity  that  the  least  pressure  in 
crushing  ejects  the  seed.  Tour  committee  haveno  licsitation 
in  placing  this  grape  at  the  head  of  all  native  grapes,  even 
above  the  Delaware.  Your  Committee  and  the  members  of 
the  Society  were  very  fortunate  in  having  fine  large  bunches 
of  Delawares,  delicious  in  flavor,  to  compare  with  the  Iona, 
and  between  these  acknowledged  competitors  for  precedence 
we  believe  the  judgment  of  the  members  as  well  as  that  of 
the  committee  to  have  been  unequivocally  in  favor  of  the 
IONA.” 

At  the  Fair  of  the  Indiana  Hort.  Society,  the  committee  of 
which  Dr.  Warder  was  chairman,  with  J.  J.  Thomas,  author 
of  American  Fruit  Book,  and  Thomas  Meehan,  Editor  of 
Gardener's  Monthly,  associates,  unanimously  awarded  the 
premium  for  the  best  variety  of  native  grapes  to  the  IONA. 

The  Cincinnati  Hort.  Soc.  awarded  first  premiums  to  IONA. 

Pennsylvania  State  Fatr  awarded  first  premium  to  IONA. 

Michigan  State  Fair  awarded  first  premium  for  our  best 
varieties  to  IONA.  ISKAELLA,  DELAWARE. 

At  the  great  exhibition  of  grapes  at  Sandusky,  where  it 
came  in  competition  with  all  of  the  best  grapes^rown  at 
Kelly’s  Island,  and  the  whole  south  shore  of  Lake  Erie.  First 
premium  to  Iona  “for  12  bunches  best  variety,  quality  to  rule.” 

At  Utica,  N.  T.,  alone,  it  was  placed  second  to  Delaware. 
Of  its  success  at  New  England  Fair,  Ohio,  Wisconsin,  Iowa, 
New  Jersey,  Vermont,  Rhode  Island,  etc.,  there  is  not  space 
to  speak.  The  concurring  opinions  of  the  select  committees 
of  BO  many  widely  different  localities  is  fully  convincing  as 
to  the  very  great  superiority  of  the  Iona,  to  all  others.  But 
this  season  has  afforded  demonstration  which  carries  irre¬ 
sistible  weight  because  it  is  the  voice  of  the  now  educated 
taste  of  the  public  which  is  in  full  harmony  with  tlie  decis¬ 
ions  of  the  eminent  judges  which  have  so  generally  consti¬ 
tuted  the  committees  the  present  season. 

Many  thousands  of  discriminating  judgment,  conscious  of 
the  vast  interest  that  centers  in  the  Iona,  have  tested  its 
merits  by  careful  immediate  comparison  with  the  best  of  all 
other  kinds,  and  the  award  of  this  vast  committee  is  so  unan¬ 
imous  that  even  strong  interests  as  well  as  Inveterate  predi¬ 
lection  have  been  compelled  to  yield  to  the  Iona  supremacy 
over  all  others,  including  the  Delaware,  which  was  its  only 
near  competitor  when  at  actual  trial.  The  friends  of  the 
Catawba,  (at  Sandusky,  especially  its  most  palmy  region,) 
having  long  enjoyed  its  richness  and  animating  spirit,  were 
often  confident  of  its  equality  in  flavor  before  trial,  but  al¬ 
ways  yielded  gracefully  at  testing 

The  veteran  Mottier,  with  his  just  perception  of  the  excel¬ 
lence  of  the  heretofore  unequalled  Delaware,  is  compelled 
to  concede  the  superiority  ef  the  Iona,  in  quality. 

The  earliiiess,  hardiness,  and  productiveness  of  the  Iona, 
are  points  of  prime  importance,  which  the  present  most  try¬ 
ing  season  has  done  more  to  settle  satisfactorily  than  the 
whole  seven  preceding  seasons  of  its  fruiting,  six  of  which 
have  not  been  favorable  to  grapes,  in  all  of  wliich  the  Iona 
has  manifested  a  degree  of  certainty  and  perfection  of  ripen¬ 
ing  its  abundant  crops,  unequalled  by  any  other  kind. 
Hardiness  is  conceded  to  the  Concord,  but  in  numerous  and 
extensive  districts  where  that  has  failed  partially,  or  entirely 


from  rot,  the  Iona  has  maintained  an  Increase  of  excellence 
and  earliness  in  ripening,  according  to  its  advance  in  age, 
which  is  characteristic  ol  it.  For  several  years  as  the  vines 
gain  in  maturity  tlie  period  of  ripening  advances  nearly  a 
week  yearly,  while  in  nearly  the  same  proportion  the  quality 
of  the  fruit  improves  in  spirit  and  rlcliness.  The  beat  Iona 
vines  in  the  country  have  not  yet  reached  their  highest 
point  of  excellence. 

I  will  illustrate  by  two  distinguished  examples.  The  first 
is  fi-om  Mb.  Chas.  Downing. 

“  The  past  two  seasons  the  Iona,  being  the  first  years  of 
fruiting  with  me,  ripened  a  little  later  than  the  Delaware,  but 
this  season  a  week  earlier.  The  Israclla  ripened  as  early  as 
the  Hartford  Prolific,  or  before  it,  beginning  to  color  about 
one  week  earlier.  Both  Iona  and  Israella  have  so  far  proved 
hardy  and  vigorous,  and  tiieir  foliage  has  been  much  less  in¬ 
jured  by  mildew  than  that  of  Delawaee,  Conoobd,  and 
MOST  OTHBK  KINDS.” 

From  Mr.  Marie,  a  most  Intelligent  foreigner  and  a  dis¬ 
tinguished  cultivator  of  foreign  and  native  grapes. 

“  The  Delaware,  my  great  favorite  which  lias  not  suffered 
before,  will  fail  to  ripen  one  third  of  its  crop  from  loss  of 
leaves;  Catawbas  entirely  gone;  Concord,  very  much  Injured 
In  the  fruit— not  nearly  half  a  crop;  Allen's  Hybrid  has  done 
very  well,  giving  most  excellent  fruit,  the  Hartford  prolific 
is  one  of  those  that  have  suflered  least. 

Now,  last,  but  not  least,  the  Iona  has  gone  through  this 
most  trying  season  triumphantly,  mildewing  very  little,  if  at 
all,  more  than  the  Hartford  Prolific ;  and  at  the  present  time 
I  have  a  trellis  seventy-five  feet  long  by  eight  feet  high  cov¬ 
ered  with  plenty  of  large  and  full,  ripe  bunches,  which,  to 
my  taste,  are  the  best  flavored  native  grapes  that  I  have 
eaten.  This  fully  meets  my  requirement  for  a  perfect  grape. 
Allow  me  to  congratulate  you  upon  the  success  of  the  Iona. 
I  shall  plant  nothing  else  in  the  ground  that  I  am  now  pre¬ 
paring— certainly  not  until  we  get  something  far  better  than 
IS  now  before  the  public 

The  advance  of  the  time  of  ripening  with  the  advance  of 
age  and  maturity  of  the  Iona  vines  is  a  fact  that  siiould  be 
noted.  Each  year  has  made  a  difference  of  more  tlian  a 
week,  or  perhaps  two  weeks,  with  mine.” 

Yours,  very  truly,  (Signed)  C.  Marie. 

From  the  foregoing  survey,  whlcli  touches  but  few  of  the 
important  points,  it  will  be  clearly  seen  that  we  have  in  the 
Iona  a  grape  not  only  that  stands  out  above  all  others,  but 
one  that  is  able  to  make  ours  a  country  of  the  vine  in  the 
most  extensive  and  excellent  sense  of  the  term,  for  the  Iona 
is  equally  eminent  for  the  table  and  for  wine,  and  for  keeping 
tlirough  winter  in  full  spirit  and  flavor  it  is  also  unequalled. 
Like  the  most  celebrated  Pineau  of  France,  it  is  suited  tor 


-  -ty  ic _ _ _  _  _ 

is  of  exceeding  beauty,  but  only  of  second  quality. 

Some  of  thriving  disposition,  and  others  of  moderate 
means  will  be  glad  to  know  that  the  buds  to  be  taken  at  fall 
pruning  from  the  Iona  vines  planted  last  spring,  are  now 
selling  Tor  tlie  price  of  the  vines,  and  that  for  cuttings  alone 
the  Iona  and  Israella  will  for  many  years  be  a  very  profitable 
investment. 

A  new  edition  (5th)  of  the  24-p.age  pamphlet,  fully  treat¬ 
ing  the  matters  liore  briefly  touched  upon,  accompanied  with 
price  lists,  and  answering  in  a  clear  and  satisfactory  manner 
most  of  the  questions,  that  those  wlio  contemplate  purchas¬ 
ing  desire  to  ask,  is  now  rea'djq  and  will  be  sent  for  two  cent 
stamp.  C.  W.  GRANT,  Iona, 

(near  Peekskill,)  Westchester  Co.,  N.  T. 

“No  matter  with  ho w  much  flourish  and  puffing  other  mag¬ 
azines  are  thrust  before  the  public,  tlie  lilgh-toned  Home 
Magazine  continues  a  favorite  as  of  old,  and  Increases  in 
worth  every  month.”— lTa«em«e  (A;  Y.)  Times. 


ARTHUR’S  HOffi  MAHAH 

For  isao. 

It  is  with  pleasure  we  are  able  to  announce  a  much  larger 
circulation  for  the  “Home  Magazine”  during  the  year  1865 
tlian  it  has  ever  before  attained ;  and  also  a  more  lieartlly 
expressed  approval,  by  subscribers  and  tbe  press,  of  Its  tone 


_  _ , _ more  ear¬ 
nest  advocacy  of  AH  Things  Pure  and  Noble, 

As  heretofore,  our  aim  will  be  to  produce 

^  JHagafiuc  for  !3linci-icaii 

not  too  didactic  and  heavy,  but  cheerful,  animated,  and 
social -a  friend,  dropping  in  upon  quiet  hours,  with  some¬ 
thing  always  pleasant  and  profitable  to  say. 

A  new  serial  bv  MISS  VIRGINIA  F.  ToWNSEND  will 
be  commenced  in  the  January  number,  entitled 

“  PETROLEUM.” 

The  Home  Magazine  for  1866  will  be  enrlclied  not  only 
with  the  best  articles  the  Editors  can  produce,  but  will  num¬ 
ber  among  its  contributors  many  of 

The  Leading  Writers  of  the  Country. 

Our  magazine  is  not  simply  a  literary  periodical.  It  takes 
higlier  ground,  and  seeks  to  make  literature  the  liandraaid 
of  morality  and  religion,  always  teacliing,  whether  by  means 
of  story,  poem,  or  essay,  that  only  by  the  “Golden  Rule” 
can  man  live  to  any  wise  or  good  purpose.  If  you  open  your 
door  to  its  visits,  it  will  be 

A  TRUE  FRIEND  IN  YOUR  HOUSEHOLD. 

As  heretofore,  it  will  be  embellished  with  Steel  Engrav¬ 
ings,  Fine  Wood  Cut  Illustrations,  Music,  Prevailing 
Styles  of  Dress,  Patterns  foe  Garments  .and  Embroid¬ 
ery,  AND  Special  Departments  for  the  Young  People, 
FOR  Mothers,  Health,  Home  Circle,  &c.,  &c. 


YEARI.Y  — lu  A.dvauco. 

One  copy . ji2  50 

Three  copies .  6  00 

Five  copies,  and  one  to  getter-up  of  club . 10  00 

Nine  copies,  “  “  “  . 15  00 

pr  A  beautiful  PREMIUM  PLATE,  entitled  “THE 
COURTSHIP  (3f  SHAKSPEARE,”  will  be  mailed  to  each 
person  who  sends  us  a  club  of  subscribers.  It  will  also  be 
mailed  to  each  single  subscriber  from  whom  we  receive  $2.50. 

For  $4.50  we  will  send  one  copy  each  of  Home  Maga¬ 
zine  and  Godey’s  Lady's  Book  for  a  vear 

Address  T.  8.  ARTHUR  &  CO., 

_ 333  Walnut  Street,  Philadelphia. 

TRUE  CAPE  COD  CRANBERRY  FOR 

Fall  planting,  for  Upland  and  garden  culture,  and  for 
swamps.  Under  my  method  of  cultivation  the  yield  last  sea¬ 
son  on  Upland  was  over  400  busliels  per  acre.  Explicit  di¬ 
rections  for  cultivation  with  prices  of  plants,  with  nursery 
catalogue  complete,  will  be  sent  to  any  address.  Agents 
Wanted. 

B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries,  Plymouth,  Mass. 
Osage  Orange  Fruit  for  Sale.— I.  McOWEN,  Havana,  HI. 


Fourth  Edition. 

The  Foundations  oi*  Misiory. 

A  Series  of  First  Tilings. 

By  SAMUEI.  B.  SCHIEPFEIilW. 

One  volume,  crown  8vo.,  in  beautiful  style,  and  illustrated 
by  elegant  engravings,  illuminated  and  plain,  $1.75. 

Gilt,  $2.50.  Cheap  Edition,  12nio.,  $1.25. 

Among  the  subjects  are;  The  First  Man  ;  The  First  Mar¬ 
riage;  The  First  Language :  First  Inventions;  First  Gov¬ 
ernment;  First  Heathen  Poets  and  Philosophers;  First  Thea¬ 
tres  ;  First  Money ;  etc.,  etc. 

“  Curious  and  interesting  book."— Commercial  Advertiser. 
“  A  vast  amount  of  information  is  gathered.”— iV.  Y.  Observer. 
■  “A  great  deal  relating  to  ancient  things.”— Ncicn.  American, 
“  Exceedingly  interesting  for  general  reading.”- Y/is  Nef/fcftcr 
“Of  great  research  and  remarkable  interest?'— Pos.  Courier. 
“Calculated  to  enlist  both  tlie  Interest  and  sympathies  of 
matured  minds.”— “Is  perhaps,  tlie  most  attractively  got  up 
volume  we  liave  seen  Issued  from  the  American  press.”— 
The  Witness,  Edinburgh. 

“  Worthy  of  a  place  in  every  family  library.”— CAris.  World. 
“As  a  present  book  for  intelligent  young  people,  it  is  almost 
without  a  rival.”- YAe  yew  York  limes. 

“We  commend  this  treatise  to  tlie  attention  of  parents.  Su¬ 
perintendents  of  Sabbatli  Schools,  and  to  all  lovers  of  Re¬ 
ligious  knowledge.”— CAraeioti  Intelligencer. 

Published  by  A.  D.  F.  RANDOLPH, 

770  Broadway,  New-York. 

On  the  receipt  of  the  price,  the  book  will  be  sent  by 
mail,  prepaid. 

Evepy  Farmer  who  has  Farm  Uten* 

sils  worth  preserving,  can  add  Fifty  per  cent,  to 
tlieix"  wear  by  keeping  them  protected  with 

The  Outta  Percha  Cement  Paint. 

The  cheapest  and  best  preservative  Paint  in  the  world,  for 
wood  and  metals  of  all  kinds,  and  for  painting  and  repairing 
Tin  and  otlier  Roofs. 

It  has  been  tested  eight  years,  is  always  ready  for  use. 

Manufacturers  of  AgricuBtural  Im- 

pleme?itSiwill  find 

The  IBIacic  I>ianionfi  Varnish 

equal  to  the  best  for  all  purposes  where  a  quick  drying, 
InstroTis  varnish  is  required.  It  costs  only  one  quar¬ 
ter  as  much. 

The  Crutta  Percha  Cement  Rootingi 

one. 
CO., 

Sole  Manufacturers, 

No.  78  William-street,  cor.  Liberty,  New-York. 

ESTEV’S  COTTAGE  OI£«Af«S, 

with  patented  improvements.  Greatly  superior  to  all  other 
Reed  instruments.  Suited  to  the  Church,  the  Sunday  School 
and  the  Parlor.  Also  excellent  Pianos  and  Melodoons  at 
moderate  prices.  Send  for  circular  to 

G.  G.  SAXE,  181  Grand-st.,  New  York. 


costs  half  as  much  as  Tin,  and  can  he  applied  by  any  ( 
THE  JOHNS  &  CKOSLEY  MANUFACTURING 


The  Nonpareid-;:" 


tWASHiNG  Machine 


Is  unequalled  for  speed,  power  and  effectiveness  of  opera¬ 
tion.  It  is  simple,  strong  and  durable. 

A  Liberal  discount  to  Dealers.  Send  for  free  Circular  to 
OAKLEY  &  KEATING  184  Water-st.,  New  York. 

National  Feed  CJntter 

for  Hay,  Straw  and  Stalks,  is  superior  in  almost  every  respect 
to  any  macliine  in  market,  and  is  warranted  entirely  satisfac¬ 
tory.  Manufactured  (all  sizes)  by  AMES  PLOW  CO., 
Boston  and  Worcester,  Mass.  For  sale  by  dealers  everywhere. 

To  Mas'ket  ®ardeMei*§. 

Market  Garden  of  18  Acres  to  Kent.  Five  yeara  lease.  13 
miles  from  New  York,  in  richest  part  of  Long  Island.  Good 
tenant  house,  large  barn,  stables,  carpenter  shop,  granary, 
wagon  liouse,  &c..  &c.  Seven  acres  in  mowing  grass,  fine 
apple  and  pear  orcliard  of  5  acres,  with  other  fruits.  Fine 
pond,  location  very  liealthy.  Owner  will  furnish  enough 
3  year  old  Asparagus  plants  to  set  out  an  acre.  Land  very 
rich,  heavily  manured,  in  excellent  fence  and  thorough  order. 
Half  mile  Irom  Depot,  and  near  Steamboat  Landing.  For 
further  particulars  inquire  of  Mr.  WM.  GOUDGE, 
(Over  the  Bank.)  333  Broome-st.,  cor.  Bowery,  N.  Y. 

The  Ammoniated  Phosphate  Guano 

Is  the  best  and  most  economical  fertilizer  for  Cotton,  Tobac¬ 
co,  the  Root  and  Cereal  crons  that  the  farmer  can  use  to 
obtain  immediate  results  for  liis  outlay,  and  to  permanently 
enrich  the  soil.  For  sale  by 

EDWARD  F.  COOKE  &  CO., 

159  Front-st.,  cor.  Maiden  Lane,  New  York. 

ATENTEES,  NURSERYMEN  AND  SELLERS 
of  improved  Breeds  of  Horses.  Cows,  Sheep  and  Hogs 
will  find  it  to  tlieir  interest  to  address  us,  as  we  enjoy  excel¬ 
lent  facilities  for  Introducing  such  to  the  Virginia  larmem. 

JNO.  F.  early  &  BRO., 

Lynchburg,  Va. 

KlOR  SALE  one  1,840  acre  stock  tann,  and  three 
smaller  ones,  all  well  fenced,  well  improved  and  stocked. 
No.  of  Oxford,  Benton  Co.,  Ind.,  my  P.  Office.  Terms  easy— 
would  like  to  liire  a  good  sliepherd.  G.  K.  AYDELOTT. 

ULTRY  FOR  SALE.— Pui-e  White-Faced 
Black  Spanisti.  and  English  Grey  Dorkings.  All  of  best 
Address  J.  L.  BOAKDMAN,  Flushfiig,  N.  Y. 


ro 

B1 

quality. 


PEACH  PITS  FROM  NATURAL  TREES  FOR 

Nurserymen,  for  sale  by  C.  B.  ROGERS, 

,  No.  133  Market-st.,  Philadelphia. 


Crarden  Seeds,  harden  Seeds. 

The  subscriber  has  been  engaged  over  tlili  ty  years  in  rais¬ 
ing  all  kinds  of  Garden,  Vcgctalile  and  Flower 
Seeds,  and  having  over  one  hundred  acres  devoted  to  that 
purpose,  is  enabled  to  offer  as  good  a  stock  of  seeds  as  can 
be  found  in  the  country.  Dealers  can  be  supplied  in  any 
quantity,  either  by  the  pound,  busliel,  or  neatly  put  tin  in 
email  mapers  suitable  for  retailing.  A  list  of  pricesJswih  he 
sent  tomll  applicants.  G.  R.  GARRETSON,  Flushing,  N.  Y. 


356 


[Novembeb, 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


WEBB  SOUTH  DOWNS. 


TME  EABIES  EIKE  IT  !  ! ! 


Tliirty  Ewes, 

Twenty  Five  Ewe  Eambs, 
Twenty  l£am  liambs  and  Yearlings, 

the  get  of  Archbishop,  for  sale  this  Fall. 

GEO.  H.  BKOWN,  Mlllbrook,  IVashington  Hollow, 
Dutchess  Co.,  N.  Y. 


ALDERNEY  BULL  FOR  SALE.— Hero,  Im- 
-raportetl,  4  years  old,  color  light  brown,  tine  animal,  sure 
stock-getter.  Apply  to  JOHN  H.  ZABUISKIE,  Old  Bridge, 
near  Hackensack.  F.  O.  Address,  Spring  Valley,  New- 
J  ersey . 


■gJ'ANCY  FOWLS. — A  few  trios  of  Dorkine:,  Span- 
ish.  White  Leghorn,  Brahma,  Boland  Fowls,  Sebright  and 
others.  Bantams,  llouen  and  Aylesbury  Ducks,  White  Tur- 

IriPQ  A70 

’  ”  ‘  BENJ.  HAINES,  Jr.,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 


PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
Sent  by  Express  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Brices,  Address  N.  B.  BOYER  &  CO., 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


PORTABLE 

PRIN-TIHG-  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants.  Druggists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers, 
&c.  Address  ADA.MS'  PRESS  CO.,  26  Ann-st.,  New  York. 
Specimen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &c..  Six  cents. 


iTgiHE  NATIONAL  PARK  BANK  OF  NEW- 

-H-  YORK. 

CAPITAL . 82,000,000.  S8KPLUS. . .  .81,300,000. 

This  Bank  will  issue  Certificates  of  Deposit  bearing  inter¬ 
est  on  favorable  terms.  J.  L.  VVOllTH,  Cashier. 

New- York,  Aug.  21,1865. 


GROVER  &  BAKER’S 


HIGM5SST  FKEMIUira, 


ELASTIC  STITCH  AND  LOCK  STITCH 


SEWING  MACHINES, 

495  BROADWAY,  NEW  YORK. 


The  Hoys  and  lalke 

MEIRTS  MUSEUM. 

The  Oldest  and  Best  Cliildren’s  Magazine.  Its  Twen¬ 
ty-Sixth  year  commences  Jan.  1st,  1800.  It  contains  the 
best  Stories,  Descriptions,  Essays,  Poems,  Pictures  and 
Puzzles.  Prizes  given  monthly  for  solving  the  puzzles. 
TERMS,  $1.50  per  year.  Good  Premiums  for  obtain¬ 
ing  subscribers.  Address  JOHN.  N.  STEARNS, 

111  Fulton-slreet,  New  A'ork. 


Mew  YORK  COLLEGE  OF  VETERINARY 
SURGEONS,  No.  179  Lexington  Avenue,  New-York 
City  (Incorporated  1857),  is  now  open  for  tlie  medical  treat¬ 
ment  of  Horses  and  other  domestic  Animals.  The  regular 
course  of  Medical  Lectures  will  commence  November  Gth, 
1863,  and  terminate  tlie  last  of  February,  1866. 

MEDICAL  FACULTY. 

A.  r.  Liautard,  M.  D.,  V.  S . Anatomy. 

A.  S.  Copeman,  V.  S . Patliology  and  Micro.scope. 

A.  Large,  M.  D..  V.  S '. . Surgery  and  Physiology. 

J.  Bnsfead,  M.  D . Materia  Medina  and  Therapeutics. 

Lecture  Fees  Tor  tlie  course,  .$105.  For  circulars  and  any 
further  information,  address  Dr.  Bustead,  ITesident  New- 
York  College  Veterinary  Surgeons,  179  Lexington  Avenue. 

A.  F.  LtAUTAKD,  M.  D.,  V.  K,  Registrar. 


HORSE  AND  HAND  POWER 

HAY  AND  COTTON  'PRESSES. 

Tliesc  maclilncs  have  been  tested  in  the  most  tlioroufch 
iimnnci’ throughout  this  and  foreii;n  countries  to  the  num¬ 
ber  or  over  3O0O. 

Tim  Horse  Power  is  worked  by  either  wheel  or  capstan, 
and  in  many  respects  possesses  unequaUed  advantages.  AVe 
invite  those  wanting  sucli  macliincs  to  write  for  a  catalogue 
containing  full  information  with  cuts,  prices,  &c.,  or  call  and 
examine  personally. 

Orders  promptly  attended  to,  by  addressing 
INGERSOLL  &  DOUGHERTY.  Greenpoint,  Kings  Co..L.  I. 


AND 

MABE:  east 


Doty’s  Clothes  Washer 

AND 

CHURN  POWER. 


now  WARRANTED  TO  RAPIDLY  CLEANSE 
THE  DIRTIEST  CLOTHING 

WltliBMt  I 

The  Proprietors  are  liappy  to  announce  to  their  Agents, 
and  others,  that  their  late  improvements  and  the  discovery 
of  a  more  efficient  process  of  washing,  enable  them  now  to 
WARRANT  their  great 

CSotises  and  liatonr  SaTers, 

already  the  best  and  most  popular  in  use— to  be  capable  of 
enabling  a  person  to  tliorouglily  cleanse  even  the  dirtiest 
shirts,  "STREAKS  ”  included,  without  a  particle  of  rubbing, 
witliout  chemicals,  witli  moderate  labor,  and  without  danger 
of  WEAR  OR  TEAR. 

Exclusive  of  heating  suds,  wringing,  rinsing,  etc.,  a  week's 
washing  for  a  familv  of  six  persons  may  be  done  with  our 
Family  Size  Washer  m  HALF  AN  HOUR! 

Our  former  customers  send  two  red  stamps  for  new 
Instructions. 

The  Women  Like  Doty’s  Washer. 

l£ead.  tlac  Proof!  SSead.  tiae  Proof! 

“It  really  merits  all  the  good  that  can  be  said  of  it.”— 
Mooee’s  Rural  Aew  Yorker.' 

“It  is  worth  one  dollar  per  week  in  any  family.  After  a 
year’s  use,  ‘our  machine’  is  tliought  more  of  to-day  than 
ever  liefore.’’— Solon  Robinson,  AgriciMural  Rditor  of 
New  York  Tribune. 

“  Doty’s  Clothes  Washer  we  have  tried  tliorouglily  for  near¬ 
ly  a  year  past.  Our  ‘better  half,’  who  has  been  compliment¬ 
ed  wltli  the  gift  of  a  score  or  move  of  dilferent  iiiachines  for 
trial,  says  this  is  taken  to  most  kindly  by  tlie  ‘help,’  and  that 
she  oaniiot  persuade  them  to  use  any  other  while  this  is  at 
hand."— Orange  Judd,  Proprietor  American  Agriculturist. 

“Among  a  score  of  Washing  Maeliines  laid  aside  after  the 
first,  or  at  most  the  second  trial,  Doty’s  'Washer  is  the  only 
one  that  stands  the  test.  Mv  wife  is  satisfied  with  it  alter  a 
four  months’  trial.’’— S.  D.  Harris,  Editor  Ohio  Farmer. 

EVERY  FAMILY  SHOULD  HAVE  ONE, 

And  none  need  be  without.  If  no  Agent  in  your  vicinity, 
send  us  the  price  as  follows :  Family  Size,  $12  ;  Hotel  Size, 
$15.  Family  Size  and  No.  2  Universal  Wringer  with  Cog 
Wheels,  $20.  And  we  will  deliver  wliictiever  you  order, 
free  of  freight  expense  to  your  nearest  railroad  station.  If 
after  four  weeks’  trial  according  to  directions,  you  are  dis¬ 
satisfied,  deliver  the  machine  back  to  us  and  we  will  R£- 
FUND  THE  PURCHASE  PRICE. 

and  TS-eflect  Z 

Perhaps  you  will  ask  how  this  Washer  can  clean  clotlies 
without  weay'ing  them.  We  answer;  In  using  it,  your 
clothes  have  the  advantage  of  being  cleansed  in  suds  hot 
and  strong  enough  to  dissolve  ail  dirt  and  grease,  lienee  it  has 
only  to  rinse  them  out :  wliereas,  in  wasliiiig  by  liand,  tlie 
liands  cannot  lie  lionie  in  suds  so  hot  and  strong,  and  tlie 
clotbcs  must  necessarily  be  rubbed  aud  worn  to  get  them 
clean. 

It  is  tlie  general  verdict  of  those  wlio  liave  used  Doty’s 
Clothes  Wasiier  any  length  of  time,  that,  even  in  medium 
sized  families,  it  will  save  tlie  price  of  itself  in  the  wear  of 
clothes  in  less  tlian  six  months,  and  will  last  many  years. 

Now  can  vou  not  better  afford  to  buy  a  macliine  than  to 
buy  extra  clotlies  tliat  will  amount  in  a  single  year  to  more 
tlian  double  the  price  of  tlie  macliine,  and  to  six,  eiglit,  yes, 
ten  times  the  price  during  tlie  time  it  will  last?  How  can 
you  make  a  better-paying  investiiieut? 

Our  Salesmen  are  DOING  GOOD  AND  JIAKING  MON¬ 
EY.  and  we  want  a  good  one  in  every  town.  For  further 
particulars  Address  R.  C.  BROWNING, 

General  Agent,  Sli  Broadway,  N.  Y. 

NOTE.— Persons  In  Illinois,  Wisconsin,  Jlissoiiri,  Iowa, 
Minnesota,  Kansas,  Nebraska,  and  Dacotab,  Address  the 
Proprietors,  DOTY  BROTHERS,  Janesville,  Wis. 


Thousands  of  the  SEWING  RIPPER  have  been  sold 
and  not  a  single  complaint  made.  It  takes  out  a  seam 
rapidly  and  safely,  -whether  sewed  by  hand  or  by  ma 
chine,  is  neat,  small,  does  not  get  out  of  order,  and  is 
needed  in  every  lady’s  work  basket.  Agents  wanted. 

Send  50  cents  for  a  sample  to 

A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau-st.,  New-York  City. 


fflelp  for  Metkers. 

Dr.  Brown’s  BABY  TENDER  relieves  the  mother, 
pleases  and  benefits  the  child.  Is  giviifg  universal  satis¬ 
faction.  See  full  description  and  Mr.  Judd’s  endorse 
ment  in  Agriculturist,  Dee.  No.,  1S64.  Send  for  Circular 
to  J.  T.  ELLIS,  939  Broadway,  New  York  City. 

Iiidisi  HiikkeF  ^wloves 


are  an  invaluable  protection  for  the  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Sait  Rheum,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYEAR'S  1.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Broadway,  New-York. 


WHAT  MATCHLESS  BEAUTY 

Lingers  on  every  glossy  wave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

IVINS’ 
PATENT 

HAIR 

ORIMPERS, 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies’  hair.  No  heat  used,  and 
no  injury  to  the  hair. 

Tliey  are  put  up  in  beauti¬ 
fully  litiiographea  boxes  com 
tainlng  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengths,  witli  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  is  complete  without  tlicin.  For  sale 
tliroiighout  the  country.  Retailers  will  be  supplied  by  any 
first-clasB  Jobber  of  Notions  in  New  York,  Philadelphia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 
E.  I'VINS,  Sixtli-st.  and  CoIumlhia^Ave., 
Pliiladelpliia,  Pa. 


FKICEB  HEDUCE® 


The  Universal'Clothes  Wringer, 

WITH  CO®  WIIEEExS,^  , 

Pkiobs— No.  IE,  $10 ;  No.  2,  $8  50.\ 

THE  BEST  IS  THE  CHEAPEST- 

I  “Tills  is  the  first  Wringer  I  have  found  that  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.’’— J.  P.  Huggins,  Lovejoy’s  Hotel. 

“In  tlie  laundry  of  my  liouso  there  is  a  perpetual  tlianks- 
giviiig  on  Mondays  for  the  invention  of  your  excellent 
Wringer.’’- Rev.  Tiieo.  L.  Cuydkr. 

“  We  think  tlie  Macliine  mucli  more  than  pays  for  itself 
every  year  in  tlie  saving  of  garments.”  “  We  think  It  im¬ 
portant  that  a  Wringer  should  be  fitted  witli  COGS.” 

Orange  Judd,  American  Agriculturist. 

“The  inventor  of  this  Macliine  m,ay  have  the  satisfaction 
of  knowing  th.at  he  has  changed  one  of  the  most  toilsome 
parts  ot  woman’s  work  into  a  most  attractive  amusement.”— 
Mrs.  Henry  Ward  Beecher. 

“  I  Iieartily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment.”- Rev.  Dr.  Bellows. 

BiF”  On  receipt  of  price  from  any  part  of  the  country 
wlierewe  liave  no  canvassers,  we  send  the  Wringer  free  of 
freiglit  charges. 

A  good  canvasser  wanted  in  every  townsliip. 

R.  C.  BROWNING,  347  Broadway,  N.  Y. 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


S57 


Ijock  Stitch  SewiBig  Madiine, 

For  Families  and  Manufacturers. 


THE  HOWE  MACHINE  CO., 
No.  629  Broadway,  New-York. 


Children’s  Bazaar  and  Depot 


for  Spring  Ilorafis,  Cantering  Horses,  Self-operating  Swings, 
Brown’s  Baby  Tender,  Drums,  Sleds  and  Toys. 

LEWIS  TIBBALS, 

510  Broadway,  directly  opposite  St.  Nicholas  Hotel. 
Send  stamp  for  Circular. 


$20.  Gr.  &  S.  CRYSTAL  D.  F.  $20. 

A  year  can  be  realized  gilding  and  putting  up 
the  Crystal  Door  Plate.  Agents  wanted.  Stock, 
Tools,  and  Instructions  cost  .$  >0.  L.  L.  TODD 
&  CO.,  39  Nassau-street,  New-York. 

SEND  FOR  A  CIRCULAR. 


$1000 


Cured  by  Bates’  Parent  Appliances.  For  descriptive  pam¬ 
phlet,  etc..  Address  H.  C.  L.  JIEARS,  277  West  23d-st.,  f>.  Y. 


IlVVAL,m’S  TRAVELING 
CHAIRS,  for  in  or  out-door  use. 
Prices,  $30  to  $50.  Those  like  the 
cut,  $23  to  $35,  light  and  strong. 
Can  be  propelled  by  the  hands.— 
PATENT  CANTEPvING  HORSES, 
for  out-door  exercise  and  amuse 
ment.  Every  boy  and  girl  wants 
one,  prices  $12  to  $25.  Send  stamp 
for  circular.  Children’s  Carriages, 
Horses,  Rocking  Chairs,  etc. 

S.  W.  SMITH. 

90  William  St.,  New-York. 


GRAPE  VINES,  &c. 

Vines  of  good  quality  of  any  of  the  following  varieties  will 
be  sent  post-paid  to  tlie  address  of  any  peison  sending  the 
annexed  price  for  each,  in  sums  of  not  less  than  $1. 

Adirondac,  Iona  and  Israella.  $3;  Iona,  2  years,  $3;  Allen’s 
Hybrid,  Rogers’  Hybrids  and  Cuyahoga,  75  cents,  Creveling. 
Maxatawny  and  Rebecca,  50  cents,  Delaware,  33  cents,  Hart¬ 
ford  Prolific  and  Diana,  Concord,  16  cents.  Concord,  2  years. 
83  cents,  Clinton,  10  cents,  Clinton,  2  years,  IG  cents. 

New  variegated  Japan  Honeysuckle,  50  cents.  New  Japan 
Judas  Tree,  $1.00. 

MAHLON  MOON,  Morrisville, 

Bucks  Co.,  Penn. 


•100,000 

Including  all  the  best  sorts  for  Vineyards  or  private  lands, 
at  the  lowest  rates.  Sent  by  Express,  or  prepaid  by  mail, 
carefully  packed.  Agents  -wanted.  Catalogues  to  any  Ad¬ 
dress.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymouth,  Mass. 


Grape  Vines  and  Grape  Wood  for  Sale. 

ADinoiTDAC,  Iona,  Isbaella,  Allex’s  Htbeid,  Dela- 
VABES,  and  the  wood  of  the  same. 

B.  H.  MACE,  (adjoining  Chas.  Downing,) 
Newburgh,  N.  Y. 


SING-  SING 


GRAPE  VINES. 

All  my  business  is  to  grow 

GRAPE  YINES 

and  sell  only  what  I  grow. 

The  Grape  Vines  grown  under  the  Firm  of  J.  F.  DELIOT 
&  RYDER,  were  all  grown  by  J.  F.  DELIOT ;  It  must  be 
understood  that  I  xvavraiit  true  to  name  only  the 

Gff-rap  e  'V ixie  s 

sold  by  ^ 

W.  IJEI.SO'F. 
Send  for  Catalogue  to 
J.  F. 

Sing’, 

M.  Y. 

Grape  Vines  for  Vineyards. 

Concord,  50,000  one  year  old  cuttings  In  open  air,  as  large 
as  vines  usually  are  at  two  years,  rows  four  feet  apart,  stocky 
at  the  ground,  $8.00  per  100 ;  $75,000  per  1000. 

Two  years  old,  $'20.00  per  100.  Also' the  Montgomery,  the 
largest  h.ardy  white  grape  in  cultivation.  The  vines  need  a 
little  protection  during  winter,  as  do  all  otliersin  the  latitude 
of  Po’keepsie.  An  unparalleled  grower  and  bearer,  a  seed¬ 
ling  of  the  White  Chasselas.  clusters  often  weighing  two 
pounds,  $1.00  each ;  $75.00  per  100. 

30,000  of  the  other  most  desirable  varieties  at  usual  rates, 
the  leading  kinds  predominating. 

Send  for  price  list. 

FERRIS  &  CAYWOOD, 

Po’keepsie,  N.  Y. 


THE  ICITTA.TI1VI^Y. 

What  is  Said  of  it,  and  AVIio  Says  it. 

“Slzeof  berry  fully  equal  but  ratlierlarger  (than  Rochelle), 
decidedly  sweeter,  and  an  acquisition  to  tins  class  of  fruits. 
I  consider  it  the  BEST  Blackberry  I  have  yet  seen."— 
Charles  Downing. 

“I  believe  it  to  he  the  Blackberry  I  know  of,  and 

sliail  take  great  pleasure  in  recommending  it  to  my  friends.” 
— Wii.  S.  Caepentek. 

“Berries  longer  and  more  irregular  than  New  Rochelle; 
we  measured  several  an  inch-and-a-half  long,  and  3  inches 
in  circumference.  Small  seeds,  juicy,  sweet,  with  a  true 
Blackberry  flavor.  The  fruit  possesses  the  great  advantage 
that  It  does  not  need  to  be  over-ripe  in  order  to  be  eatable, 
but  while  still  liard  enougli  to  send  to  market,  it  is  sweet 
and  fit  for  the  ta.\)\c."— American  Agriculturist. 

“Equal  to-New  Rochelle  in  size  ,and  productiveness,  much 
superior  in  flavor,  and  ripens  a  few  days  earlier.” — Wii.  A. 
Fitch,  Associate  Editor  American  Agriculturist. 

“  Superior,  sweeter,  and  better  flavor  than  Rochelle.”— 
Dr.  I.  P.  Trimble. 

For  originals  of  above  and  others,  prices,  &c.. 

Address  with  stamp.  E.  WILLIAMS,  Mont  Clair,  N.  J. 


ffiTA]NI>A16B>  I*EAIS,S,  2  to  4  years,  very 

►^strong  and  fine.  Good  assortment  of  varieties. 

Dwarf  Pears.  2  to  3  years.  Very  stdcky.and  strong. 

Apples— Standard  and  Dwarf,  thrifty. 

Cherries,  1  and  2  years.  Plums,  2  and  3  years. 

Peaches,  1  year. 

SMALL  FRUITS.— Agriculturist,  and  other  Strawber¬ 
ries,  Evergreens,  Ornamental  Trees,  Shrubs,  Roses,  &c. 

We  have  paid  special  attention  to  the  cultivation  of  the 
New  Hardy  Grapes,  and  oft'er  strong,  well-grown  plants 
of  Iona,  Adirondac,  and  Israella,  hy  the  100  or  1000  at 
low  rates.  Also,  Delaivare,  Concord,  Diana,  Rebecca, 
Allen’s  Hybrid,  Hartford  Prolific,  Rogers’  Hybrids, 
Creveling,  and  nearly  all  the  valuable  kinds.  Also  a 
splendid  lot  of  Delaware  and  Diana  Layers,,  many  of 
them  with  0  feet  hearing  wood. 

Address  with  stamp,  for  Price  List. 

BRONSON,  GRAVES  &  SELOVER, 
Washington-st.  Nursery,  GENEVA,  N.  Y. 


8eeds  !  llialtos  I  !  Plants  J ! ! 

WILLIAM  HACKER, 

Office  258  South  Third  St., 

PHILADELPHIA,  PA. 

Wholesale  Dealer  In  Seeds,  iind  Agent  for  the  best  English, 
French,  and  German  growers.  Hyacinths,  Tulips,  Crocus  and 
other  Buibs  direct  from  tlie  Hoiland  growers.  Country  mer- 
cliants.  Dealers  and  Druggists  supplied  at  tlie  lowest  rates. 


Betcla  HiiIIis. 

Hyacinths,  named,  double  and  single,  all  colors,  25c. 
to  $1  each.  Mixed,  $1.50  per  dozen.  Tulips,  named,  8c. 
to  25  cents  each.  .Mixed,  75  cents  per  dozen.  Croens,  In 
color,  23  cents  per  dozen,  $1.50  per  100.  Mixed,  20  cents  per 
dozen,  $1  per  100.  Cro-wii  Imperials,  .50  cts.  Japan 
Lilies,  Rubrum  and  Roseum,  30  cts.:  Album,  50  to  73  cents. 

Sent  bv  mail  post-paid,  on  receipt  of  price. 

Brill  &  KUMEBLE,  IdS  Broad-st.,  Newark,  N.  J. 


The  FSiiladelpIiia  Kasptoerry. 

Wilson’s  Early  Blackberry. 

Best  Selected  Strawberries. 


A  II  €  T  I  O  M 

SALE  OF 

GJ-HY3PE  YIIVES- 

IOWA. 

SO,©®©  BEI.AWA1IE. 
S5,®©©  CJOWCOUB. 

With  smaller  lots  of  Israella,  Adirondac,  and  other 
new  kinds,  will  be  sold  at  Public  Auction,  on  the  grounds  of 

PARSONS  &  CO., 

,at 

FffiU^MIW^,  near  Wew-WoFk, 

OBI  WE1>INI2SI>AV, 

Ii!rc3>'«7-©2a3.’fc>©i;-  ©,  X3. 

These  Vines  will  comprise  the  best  of  their  stock,  and 
Inferior  plants  will  be  carefully  excluded. 

A  description  of  their  character  will  he  found  in  the  gen¬ 
eral  advertisement  of 

Eai’SOdlS  «&.  OO05 

in  the  October  number  of  the  Agriculturist. 

Nurserymen  and  Vineyard  growers  are  especially  in¬ 
vited  to  avail  themselves  of  this  unusual  opportunity  to 
obtain  line  plants. 

The  Boat  in  connection  with  the  Flushing  Railroad,  will 
leave  James  Slip  and  34th-Street  New  York,  at  8,  9,  and 
11  o’clock  A.  M. 

PEIiAWAHE 

AND 

IONA  V  I  N  E  ‘S. 

FBr§®iis  &  €#69 

Offer  for  the  Autumn  trade, 

I>elaNvai*e  CiS-r’ape  ’Yines5 

at  the  following  low  prices : 

No.  1,  extra  strong’,  $30  per  100. — $250  per  1000. 
$2,000  per  10,000. 

No.  2,  fine  plffnts,  $20  per  100. — $150  per  1000. 
$1200  per  J0,000. 

IONA,  ISI£AEI^I.A, 

and 

ABIg£®iNI>AC, 

No.  1,  $2.00  each  ;  $18.00  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  $1.50  each  ;  $12.00  per  doz. ;  $80  per  100. 
IONA— No.  3,  $50  per  100. 

Our  No.  1  Iona,  are  very  strong,  extra  plants. 

CGWCOISD  VINES, 

$12  00  per  100  ;  $75  00  per  1000  •, 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of  all  the  sorts  of  vines  usually 
grown.  Also 

IPEAIS,  APPEE 

and  other 

FMUIT 

"of  the  best  varieties. 

ORNAimEWTAE  TREES 

and 

SHKERS. 

ROSRS,  Hybrid  Perpetuals,  at  $20  per  100;  $175'  per  lOOO; 
These  arc  all  Remontants,  of  the  best  varieties,  upon 
their  own  roots,  not  budded  or  grafted. 


Peach  Farm  for  Sale,  170  Acres,  3500  Trees  in  3cl 
years  growth,  50  miles  south  of  Phil’a.,  and  IK  miles  from 
Nortii  East  Depot,  Cecil  Co.,  Md.,  on  the  Phil’a,,  Wilmington 
and  Balt.  K.  R.,  land  all  lavs  to  tlie  sontli.  Beautlfnl  view  of 
Cars  and  Elver.  Address  C.  STERN,  WKmington,  Delaware. 


Apple  seed  of  first  quality,  the 

growth  of  1805,  for  sale  by  _ 

"  JAMES  A.  Root,  Skaneatelss,  N.  T. 


Fruit  and  Ornamental  Trees,  Vines,  Asparagus  and  Rhu¬ 
barb  Plants.  Send  for  Catalogues  gratis. 

WILLIAM  PARRY,  Cinnaminson,  N.  J. 


^ATAEOGEES,  with  PRICES  of  JAPAN 
A^LILIES,  STRAWBERRY  PLANTS,  FRUIT  and  ORNA¬ 
MENTAL  TREES,  SHRUBS,  &c.,  gratia,  hy 

Addressing  FRANCIS  BRILL, 

Newark,  New  Jersey. 


Address  PARSC»N§  &  €€>., 

FlHsliiiiJT,  N.  V. 


CRANBERRY  PLANTS.— MORE  W  THE  same 

kind  for  sale  By 

Doct,  B,  H.  STEVENS 

Essex,  Conn, 


# 


f 


358 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[November, 


Bloom.liig'tors.  INxirsery^ 

Two  Hundred  and  forty  (240)  acres.  Splendid  stock,  Stand¬ 
ard  and  Dwarf.  Fifty  thousand  (50,000)  Feach,  including 
Hale’s  early;  Apricots,  Grapes,  Hoses,  (Osage  Orange,  Hardy 
Bulbs,  Tulips,  Hyacinths,  Crocus,  all  at  wholesale  and  retail. 

F.  K.  PHCENIX,  Bloomington,  Illinois. 


To  Agents  and  the  Trade, 

My  Autumn  Catalogue  is  now  ready,  with  great  induce¬ 
ments  to  Agents.  B.  M.  WATSON,  Old  Colony  Nurseries, 

Plymouth,  Mass, 

68 


rearl-St.,  New-York. 


Produce  Commission  MereSnants, 

FOB  THE  SALE  OP 


Send  for  Weekly  Price  Current,  Marking  Plate  and 
Circular  with  Packing  and  Shipping  directions. 

Country  Consignments  receive  special  attention 


KEFERENCES : 


Bent.  Loder,  Esq.,  N,  Y. 

Ex-Pres’t.  Erie  R.  It. 
Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Chicago,  Ill. 
Hon.  J.  K.  Porter, 
Albany,  N.  Y. 


Wm.  S.  Thorn,  Esq.,  N.  Y. 

Brest.  Na’l  Fire  Ins.  Co. 
Bane,  Son  &  (3o.,  N.  Y. 
Truman,  Stratton  &  Co., 
Orange.  N.  YB 
Fred.  Bissell,  Esq.,  Toledo,  O. 


N®TI€®:  T®  SMIFFERS, 


SOAF-MAMER^,  ClIAMR’ 
liERS,  AN®  CRENTRir 
MERCMANTS. 


The  undersigned  pay  their  particular  attention  to  filling 
orders  for 

Uosin,  Palm  Oil,  Soda  Ash,  Sal  Soda, 
Caustic  Soda,  Indigo,  See,  Consignments 
of  Tallow,  Grease,  and  General  Western 
Produce  promptly  sold  by 

ABRAM  MNICJmT  &  SONS, 

Commisgion  Mercliants 
32  Water-St.,  New-York  City. 

S,  B,  CONOVER, 

Commission  Dealer, 

260,  261  &  262  West  Washington  Market, 

FOOT  OF  FHLTON-ST. 

Particular  attention  paid  to  selling  all  kinds  of  Fruit  and 
other  Farm  Produce. 

Refers  to  the  Editor  of  the  American  Agrioulturiat. 

SEFEBSOR  BRAIN  TIILE 

made  of  the  celebrated,  strong,  tenacious  clay  of  Wood- 
bridge,  N.  J„  Inirned  with  intense  heat  over  the  Fire  Brick, 
in  Fire  Brick  kilns,  and  sold  at  moderate  prices,  as  tlie  clay 
must  be  removed  from  over  valuable  beds  of  the  best 
Wlilte  Ware,  and  Fire  Brick  clay.  Also  double  glazed 
Stone  Ware  Pipe,  with  collars  for  making  water-tight  pipe  to 
conduct  pure  water  free  from  rust  and  poison.  Stove  Lin¬ 
ings  and  Fire  Brick,  &c.,  &c.,  of  best  quality.  Sliipped  by 
Railroad  or  water  direct  from  Factory,  on  Sliip  Cliannel  of 
Raritan  River,  27  miles  from  New  Y'ork  City. 

CROSS.MAN  BROS’.  &  CO.,  Woodbridge,  N.  J. 


Mallory  &  sandford’s  celebrated 

FLAX  BRAKE,  the  best  in  use,  for  sale  by  tlie  Com¬ 
pany's  Agent. 

JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 

Send  for  a  Circular.  98  William-st.,  New-York. 


AGENTS  WANTED— To  sell  Wells’  Patent  Self- 
Feeding  Circular  Hand  Saws.  A  great  labor-saving  machine. 
A  r.are  opportunity  for  active  men  to  make  a  fortune.  Extra 
premium  inducements— large  sales  certain.  For  terms,  en¬ 
close  stamp  to  T.  J.  WELLS,  81  Beekman-st.,  New-York. 


FOB  SAFE 

3000  BAKUELS  GROUND  BONES  delivered  at  the  factory 
of  tho  Company,  Flatbusli,  Long  Island,  at  Star  Landing, 
Staten  Island,  near  Rahway,  New  Jersey,  or  to  order  on  any 
Dock  in  Brooklyn. 

For  particulars  and  samples  Inquire  at  tho  places  men¬ 
tioned,  and  at  the  ofhceof  the  Long  Island  Bone  Laboratory, 
109  Water,  corner  Fulton  Street. 


VINEIiAN® 


THE  NEW  COLLECTIONS  OP  CHURCH  MUSIC. 


I^AJRin  AM1»  FRUIT  UANDS,  in  a 

mild  and  healthful  climate.  Thirty  miles  south  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  by  Railroad,  In  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soli  is  rich  and  produeb’ce,  varying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  Wheat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  country.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  have  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
Immense  profits.  Vineland  Is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  Tlie  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  Is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  Improvements.  Tlie  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  Its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  the  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  has  In¬ 
creased  five  thousand  people  within  the  past  three  years. 
Churches,  Stores,  Schools,  Acadaraies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  other  elements  of  refinement  and  culture  have 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  hundred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
It  is  estimated  tliat  five  liundred  will  he  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  $25 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  this  district  than  In 
any  other  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Yards,  Manu¬ 
factories,  Foundries,  Stores,  and  the  like. 

For  persons  wlio  desh  e  mild  winters,  a  healthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil.  In  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  and  possessing  all  otlier  social  privileges,  in  tlie 
heart  of  civilization,  It  is  wortliy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  tlie  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  Information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CHAS.  K.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  .  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  tn  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  vie  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies, 


F  ®  B  ^  A  f .  E . 

farming  and 

MARKET  GARDENING 
m  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
purchasers,  situated  in  the  counties  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
on  the  line  of  tlie  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,  mid¬ 
way  between  New-Y'orU  and  Philadelplila,  at  from  $10  to  $25 
per  acre.  In  addition  to  all  the  common  products  of  a  farm, 
these  lands  are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet 
potatoes,  peache.s,  grapes,  tobacco  and  hops.  All 
crops  ripen  ten  davs  earlier  than  on  Long  Island. 
Squankum  marl  is  aelivered  at  any  point  on  the  rail¬ 
road  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per  ton,  and  fertil¬ 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  Its  application.  The 
lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber,  suita¬ 
ble  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  the  timber 
has  been  recently  cut  off,  leaving  the  laud  ready  for  Immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  $.7  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  the  lands 
conta’in  a  large  qi  antity  ot  the  best  potters’  clay  yet  discovr 
ered,  for  the  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-mill  within 
one  mile  of  Shamong  Staiion.  A  good  hotel  at  Shamong,  on 
the  lands  offered  for  sale.  The  location  is  very  healthy  and 
water  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  with  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  mill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purposes.  A  portion  of  the  purchase  money  may 
remain  on  mortgage.  Terms  very  favorable  to  purchasers. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHETWODD,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O.  (jlLEK^IO  &T2  Franklin-st.,  New-York. 
and  N.  P  TODD,  ag’t  Shamong,  Burlington  Co., 

New  Jersey. 


600  Maryland  and  Virginia  Farms 
and  Timbered  Lands. 

Catalogue  of  Maryland  and  Virginia  Lands,  with  Geo¬ 
graphical  description  of  Maryland,  for  sale  by  R.  W.  TEM- 
PLEMAN  &  GO.,  Land  Agents,  48  Lexington-st.,  (up  stairs.) 
Baltimore  City,  embracing  a  description  of  tlie  soil  and  pro¬ 
ducts  of  Maryland.  Send  25  cents  (for  a  copy  of  Catalogue. 


SUPERIOR  FARM  UANI>.— 20.000 

Acres,  Franklin  Tract,  at  Newfield,  Gloucester  (jounty. 
New  Jersey,  on  the.  Railroad  running  from  Philadelphia  to 
Cape  May,  30  miles  South  of  Philadelphia— atljoinlng  tlie 
Vineland  Tract,  and  2  miles  North  of  the  Vineland  Station— 
for  sale  at  low  prices  and  on  easy  terms.  In  lots  to  suit  pur- 
cliasers.  Circulars  with  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  Hon. 
William  Parry,  and  others,  with  full  Information,  sent  to  ap¬ 
plicants,  (Vee.  Address  JOHN  H.  COFFIN  &  CO„  New- 
neld,  Gloucester  Co..  N.  J.  Improved  Farms  also  for  Sale. 


A  SMALL  NEW  JERSEY  FRUIT  FARM  FOR 
SALE  CHEAP,  convenient  to  Depot.  Apples,  pears, 
cherries,  grapes,  strawberries,  raspberries,  blacKberrles.  &c. 
Address  G.  W.  THOMPSON, 

New  Brunswick,  N.  J. 


fra^HE  CIIOPPED-UP  MONKEY.— A  Puzzle  far 
-H- Children.  Sent  post  paid  for  15  cents.  AMSDEN  &  CO., 
BOSTON. 


The  hog  BREEDER’S  MANUAL  sent  to  any 

address  IVee  of  cliarge,  every  farmer  should  have  It. 
Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO.,  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 


MR.  BRADBURY’S  LAST  WORK. 

THE  KEY  NOTE.— A  New  Collection  of  Sacred  and 
Secular  Music  for  Choirs  and  Singing  Schools,  by  William 
B.  Bradbury.  Mr.  Bradbury’s  last  previous  work  In  this 
department,  "  Tlie  Jubilee,”  has  already  liad  a  sale  ot  over 
200.000  copies,  showing  a  popularity  almost  unprecedented, 
for  a  work  of  this  kind.  Tlie  Key  Note  is  complete  in  all  its 
departments,  and  is  printed  on  clear,  large  type,  one  part  on 
a  stair.  Price,  $1.50. 

DR.  MASON’S  LAST  WORK. 

ASAPH  ;  OR  THE  CHOIR-BOOK _ A  New  Col¬ 

lection  of  Sacred  and  Secular  Alusic  for  Clioirs,  Singing 
Schools  and  Conventions.  Bv  Lowkll  Masok.  Dr.  of  Music, 
and  William  Mason.  The  Elements  of  Musical  Notation 
are  Illustrated  by  a  large  variety  of  pleasing,  social  pieces  ; 
part  songs,  glees,  &c.  Tlie  Tune  Department  contains  most¬ 
ly  new  music,  and  provides  for  every  meter;  and  the  An- 
tliem  Department  Is  full  and  attractive.  Price,  $1.50. 

MR.  ROOT’S  LAST  WORK. 

THE  DIAP.\SO!V. — A  Collection  of  Church  Music, 
to  wliioh  are  prefixed  a  new  and  coniprelienslve  view  of  Mu¬ 
sic  and  its  Notation  .  Exercises  for  Reading  Music,  and  Vocal 
Training  ;  Songs,  Part  Songs,  Rounds,  &c.  For  Choirs,  Sing¬ 
ing  Schools,  Conventions,  &c.  By  Gko.  F.  Root.  Price,  $1.50. 

THE  NEW  BOOK  FOR  THIS  SEASON. 


THE  PRAISE  OP  ZION.-A  Collection  of  Mnslc 
lor  Singing  Scliools,  Clioirs  and  Musical  Conventions ;  con¬ 
sisting  of,  I.  A  System  of  Musical  Notation.  11.  A  v.ariety 
of  Exercises  and  Glees  for  Singing  Schools.  III.  An  exten¬ 
sive  collection  of  Hymn  Tunes.  IV.  A  large  assortment  of 
Sentences,  Anthems,  and  Chants.  By  Solon  Wilder  and 
Frederic  S.  Davenport. 

The  publishers  invite  attention  to  this  new  book,  with 
great  confidence  that  It  will  prove  very  attractive  and  use¬ 
ful  to  Singing  Schools,  Choirs  and  Conventions.  The  authors 
have  had  at  their  command  many  new  compositions  by  tho 
most  popular  and  distinguished  composers,  foreign  and 
American.  A  feature  of  tins  work  is  tiie  presentation  of  a 
number  of  hitherto  uniinhlished  compositions  of  Oharles 
Zkuner,  .as  well  as  some  by  Novelli  and  Neukomm,  now 
first  published  from  their  manuscripts,  in  addition  to  tlie  ricli 
contributions  of  living  Authors.  The  contents  of  the 
PRAISE  OF  ZION  are  characterized  by  fresliness,  varietv 
and  practicabilltv,  and  tlie  pnblisliers  confidently  predict  for 
It  a  very  wide  popularity  and  use.  Price,  $1.50. 

MASON  BROTHERS  are  also  publishers  of  THE  NEW 
CARMINA  SACRA,  By  Dr.  Lowell  Mason,  $1.50;  I'HE 
JUBILEE.  By  William  B.  Bradbury,  $1.50;  THE  SAB¬ 
BATH  BELL,  By  (lEORGE  F.  Root,  $1.50  ;  THE  SHAWM, 
By  Bradbury,  Root  &  Hastings,  $1.50 :  WELS'S  CHURCH 
MUSIC  (for  the  Episcopal  Service),  By  Charles  Wels, 
$3.00;  and  also  of  many  other  music  books  in  all  depart¬ 
ments.  Copies  by  mail  post-paid,  at  the  prices. 

BIASDM  BieO'FHEKS, 

696  Broadway,  New-Yorlc. 


Every  Child  oa  the  Continent  should  have  it  1 

The  Best  Children’s  Paper  in  America. 


Fighting  Kgaiust 
Wrong,  and  for  the 
Good,  the  Trup,  and 
the  BeauUfuL 

A  First-CInMs  Wonlhly  Paper,  of  10 
Images,  ior  {iOVS  and  GlULS* 

$1.00  a  Year  in  aavance. 

A  Reautiful  Premium  to  every  subscriber. 

Specimen  Copy  sent  tor  Ten  Cents. 
Address, 

ALFRED  L.  SEWELL, 
Publisher,  Chicago,  111. 

“Mr.  Sewell’s  Paper  already  excels  every  other  children’s 
paper  that  we  know  of  in  this  cownivy."'— Chicago  £:ve.  Joicr, 


Pre-paid  by  First  ^lail  to  any  Po6t-0§lce  for  50. 

The  new  ILLUSTRATED  HYDROPATH¬ 
IC  ENCY’CLOPEDIA  contains  nearly  1,000  pages.  Illus¬ 
trated  witli  more  tlian  300  Engravings,  with  Index  complete. 
Agents  Wanted.  Address  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  No.  389 
Broadway,  New-York. 


“  Of  all  the  publications  wblcli  have  attained  such  a  wide 
popularity,  as  issued  liy  FOWLER  &  WELLS,  none  are 
more  adapted  to  general  utility  than  lliis  rich,  comprehen¬ 
sive,  and  well  arranged  Encyclopedia.”— [N.  Y.  Tribune. 


COUSii^  LIZZiE^S 

Monthly,  Now  Ready.  Something  New  in  the  Ferlodical 
Line!  Ciood  Reading  at  a  very  low  price.  Cram  full  of  Good 
Tilings,  Beautifully  Illustrated.  Ask  any  Newsdealer  for  a 
copy.  A  Rare  Cliaiioc  !  The  Wontlily  wfll  be  sent  six 
months  on  trial  to  any  address  for  25  cents,  5  for  SI.  Don't 
lose  tlie  opportunity,  commence  Now.  No  free  copies— spec¬ 
imens  post-paid.  10  cents  Address 

J.  C.  HANEY  &  CO.,  109  Nassau-st.,  New  York. 


THE  WITNESS. 

A  Monthly  Journal,  J5dltcd  by  James  Inglis,  Devoted 
te  the  Illustration  OP  Christian  Doctrine  and  Duty, 
without  Sectarian  Connection  or  Secular  Matter. 


Suhserlption  for  12  months . . 50  cents. 

The  first  volume,  bound  in  cloth . 75  cents. 


J.  INGLIS  &  CO.,  26  Cooper  Institute,  New  York. 


anted— CANVASSERS  IN  EVERY  Conn- 

*  V  ty,  to  sell  Powell’s  Great  N.itional  Picture  of  the 
voters  in  Congress  for  tlie  Constitutional  Amendment. 
Thorough  Agents  clear  $100  to  $200  per  iiiontli.  Send  for 
Circular  or  call  on  POWELL  &  CO.,  24  Bible  House,  N.  Y. 


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KNOWING.  A  handbook  of  Valuable  Information  for 
Every  Man,  Woman  and  Clilld.  Sent  free  to  any  one  on 
KEO’T  OF  A  STAMP  FOR  POSTAGB.  AJISDEN  &  CO.,  BOSTON 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST. 


TO  ABVEKTISEMS. 


Merchants,  Manufacturers,  Inventors,  Real  Estate 

Owners,  Schools,  and  all  others  who  desire 
to  reach  Customers  in  all  parts  of  the 
Country,  as  well  as  in  the  City,  will 
find  it  to  their  interest  to 
ADVERTISE  IN 

THE 

I^IW  V©B^TSieSJMi. 

The  circulation  of  Thb  TEimrira  is  larger  than  that  of 
any  other  Newspaper,  and  it  is  read  by  the  most  enterprising, 
thrifty,  and  industrious  classes.  Advertisements  inserted  in 
each  of  tlie  editions  of  Thk  Tribunb,— Daily,  Skmi-Wkek- 
LY,  and  Weekly,  will  be  read  by  nearly  a  million  of  peo¬ 
ple,  and  no  investment  pays  a  business  man  so  well  as  the 
money  he  spends  in  j udicious  advertising.  The  investigation 
by  the  Mayor  and  Comptroller  of  the  City  resulted  in  nam¬ 
ing  the  Daily  Tribune  as  being  one  of  the  two  papers  hav¬ 
ing  the  largest  dally  circulation,  and  Its  Weekly  edition  is  ac¬ 
knowledged  to  be  far  greater  than  that  of  any  other  News¬ 
paper. 

Rates  of  Advertising  in  the  New  York  Daily 
Tribune. 

Ordinary  Advertisements,  classified  under  appropriate 
heads.  Fifteen  Cents  per  line  each  insertion. 

(ABOUT  EIGHT  WORDS  AVERAGE  A  LINE.) 

SEMI-WEEKILY  TKIKUNE. 

Twenty-Five  Cents  per  line  each  insertion. 

THE  WEEKLY  TRIBUNE. 

One  Dollar  per  line  each  Insertion. 

The  Weekly  Tribune  has  a  circulation  larger  than  that 
of  any  other  newspaper,  and  a  large  proportion  of  its  sub¬ 
scribers  take  no  otlier  journal.  Tlie  space  in  this  sheet  allot¬ 
ted  to  Advertisements  is  necessarily  limited,  so  that  each  has 
the  advantage  of  being  easily  seen,  and  all  are  generally  read 
with  as  mucli  interest  as  news  matter.  There  is— as  those 
who  have  tried  it  know— no  advertising  medium  in  the  coun¬ 
try  so  clieap,  because  there  is  none  so  profitable,  to  the  ad¬ 
vertiser.  Tlie  paper  circulates  among  the  industrial  and 
thrifty  classes— the  Farmers,  Manufacturers,  ilercliants  and 
Jleclianics  of  the  country— and  is  carefully  read  by  tlieir 
wives  and  daughters.  It  is  safe  to  say  that  each  advertise¬ 
ment  in  it  is  read  every  week  by  not  less  than  half  a  million 
of  the  most  intelligent  of  the  people.  He  who  makes  his 
business,  ills  merchandise  or  his  manufactures  known  to  tills 
immense  number,  scattered  all  over  the  loyal  States,  can  not 
fail  to  do  so  to  his  own  manifest  and  great  advantage. 

Address  THE  TRIBUNE, 

No.  154:  Nassau  St.,  New  Yorlc. 

A  SCHOOL  MAGAZINl^  FREE! 

CLARK’S  SCHOOL  VISITOR— VOL.  X— 18G6. 

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Readings^  Dialogues^  Speeches,  Music, 
Poems,  Mathematics,  Grammar, 
Enigmas,  Rebuses,  <&c. 

The  publisher  of  this  popular  DAT  SCHOOL  MONTHLY, 
In  order  to  reach  all  parts  of  the  country,  will  send  tlie  VIS¬ 
ITOR  ONE  YEAR  FREE  },0  ONE  PERSON  (WllO  Will  aCt  33 
agent),  at  any  Post  Ofeioe  in  the  United  States. 

Address,  with  five  cents,  for  particulars, 

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■  •»*  Exchanges  copying  the  above,  and  sending  a  marked 
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OLIVER  DIT.SON  &  CO.,  Publisliers,  Boston. 

The  phrenological  journal  and  LIFE 

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Phrenology,  the  Natural  History  of  Man  ;  Phre.noloqy, 
and  the  Temperaments;  Physiology,  the  Laws  of  Life  and 
Health ;  Psychology,  tlie  Science  of  the  Soul.  Amply  illiis- 
tratud.  Monthly,  $2  a  year;  sample  Nos.  20  cents.  Address 
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PEACE  and  PROSPERITY ! 


THE  WAR  IS  ©VER  ! 

THE  EOEi^TRT  IS  SATEO  ! 

PROSPERITY  AROEIVUS! 

AND  NOW  IS  THE  TIME  TO  SUBSCRIBE  FOE 

MOORE’S  RURAL  NEW-YORKER,  the  Lead¬ 
ing  and  Largest  Circulating  Farm  and  I'iresidk  Journal 
extant.  For  fifteen  years  The  Rural  has  had  no  superior 
on  the  Continent  as  an  Agricultural^  Horticultural,  Literary 
and  Family  Newspaper  combined,  and  it  will  continue  to 
excel  in  Contents,  Style,  and  Appearance.  It  embraces  a 
greater  variety  of  Practical,  Useful  and  Entertaining  Read¬ 
ing  than  any  other  American  Weekly— comprising  Depart 
ments  devoted  to,  or  which  treat  ably  and  fully  upon, 
AGRICULTURE,  SHEEP  HUSBANDRY, 

HORTICULTURE,  RURAL  ECONOMY, 
EDUCATION,  ARTS  and  SCIENCE, 

LITERATURE,  GENERAL  NEWS, 

With  various  minor  Departments,  and  including  numerous 
Illustrations,  Tales,  Sketches,  Music,  Poetry,  Enigmas.  &c. 
&c.— rendering  the  paper  Instructive  and  Entertaining  to  the 
various  members  of  the  Family  Circle.  Among  its  important 
departments  is  that  devoted  to 

SHEEP  HUSBANDRY, 

Conducted  by  Hon.  H.  S.  Randall,  LL.,  D.,  author  of  “  The 
Practical  Shepherd,”  and  other  kindred  works.  Dr.  R.  is  the 
best  autliority  on  the  subject  in  this  country,  and  his  De¬ 
partment  is  alone  worth  the  price  of  the  paper  to  any  one 
engaged  in  Wool  Growing  or  Sheep  Breeding. 

A  digest  of  the  Latest  News  given  weekly,  while  special 
attention  Is  paid  to  Reports  of  the  Grain,  Provision,  Cattle, 
Wool  and  Fruit  Markets. 

Form,  Style  and  Terms. 

THE  RURAL  NEW-YORKER,  is  published 
Weekly,  each  number  comprising  Eight  Double  Quarto 
Pages.  It  is  printed  in  superior  style— clear  type  and  good 
paper— and  illustrated  with  many  appropriate  Engravings. 
A  Title  Page,  Index,  &c.,  at  close  of  each  volume,  complete 
for  binding. 

TERMS,  in  ADVANCE  !_OnIy  $3  a  year ;  Five 
copies  for  $14 ;  Seven,  and  one  free  to  club  agent,  for  $19 ; 
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and  hence  Now  is  the  Time  to  Subscribe  and  form  Clubs. 
Agents  Wanted  in  all  places  where  we  have  none,  to  whom 
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will  be  sent,  on  trial,  for  only  50  cents. 

Address  D.  D.  T.  MOORE,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 


WHAT  THE  PRESS  SAYS. 

Moore’s  Rural  New  Yorker,  published  at  Rochester, 
has  a  very  large  circulation,  especially  among  tlie  agricultur¬ 
al  population  of  the  Northern,  Western  and  Middle  States. 
It  Is  an  able  and  well  managed  paper,  and  deserves  tlie  suc¬ 
cess  it  lias  achieved.— [N.  YT  Daily  Times. 

Moore’s  Rural  New  Yorker,  the  standard  Agricultural, 
Literary  and  Family  Newspaper,  conducted  by  Mayor  Moore 
of  this  city,  is  an  established  favorite  in  thousands  of  Fami¬ 
lies  in  both  Town  and  Country,  and  its  enterprising  proprie¬ 
tor  is  determined  tliat  it  shall  fail  in  none  of  tliose  excellen¬ 
ces  which  liave  made  it  tlie  leading  and  most  widelv  circu¬ 
lated  Journal  of  its  class.— [Rocliester  Evening  Express. 

Moore’s  Rural  New  Yorker.— This  famous  weekly  lias 
attained  apopularity  unrivalled  by  anv  similar  journal,  hav¬ 
ing  subscribers  and  enthusiastic  admirers  in  all  parts  of  the 
laud.  The  dress,  paper,  engravings,  printing,  and  all  pertain¬ 
ing  to  the  sheet,  are  superb.— [Rochester  Dally  Uuion. 

Moore's  Rural  is  full  of  varietv,  original  and  select.  We 
confess  to  a  surprise  at  the  variety  and  ricliness  of  its  con¬ 
tents,  bountifully  illustrated  as  it  is.  No  paper  on  our  ex¬ 
change  list  comes  so  near  our  ideas  of  perfection,  for  a  secu¬ 
lar  family  paper.  It  maintains  a  high  moral  standard.— 
[New  York  Observer. 

The  Rural  has  attained  the  largest  ciranlation  of  any  pa¬ 
per  of  the  kind  in  the  country  or  the  world ;  and  this  pre¬ 
eminence  has  been  achieved  by  careful  management,  first- 
rate  tact,  judicious  enterprise  and  liberality.— [Rocliester 
Dally  Democrat. 

The  frequency  with  which  we  publish  extracts  from  the 
Rural  shows  our  own  appreciation  of  it.  Prof.  Dewey  and 
otlier  eminent  writers  are  regular  contributors  to  Its  pages.— 
[New  York  Evening  Post. 

The  Rural  Is  not  only  a  favorite  in  the  rural  districts,  but 
deservedly  popular  in  tlie  cities.  No  newspaper  in  this  or  any 
other  country  lias  ever  run  a  more  prosperous  career.— 
[Louisville  Journal. 

The  Rural  New  Yorker  is  the  best  Farm  and  Fireside 
Journal  in  America,  and  has  justiv  earned  all  its  devoted 
editor  claims  for  it.— [Chicago  Daily  Democrat. 

Witliout  exception,  the  best  Agricultural  and  Family 
Newspaper.  Mr.  Moore  lately  received  a  $1,000  draft  for  one 
club  of  new  subscribers !— [Minnesota  Statesman. 

The  Rural  is  tlie  best  Agrlcnltural,  Horticultural  and 
Family  paper  publislied  on  the  continent.— [Recorder,  New¬ 
castle,  Canada  West. 


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VOLXUVIE  XXIV— No.  13. 


NEW- YORK,  DECEMBER,  1865. 


NEW  SERIES— No.  227. 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress  in  tlie  year  1865,  by 
Orange  Judd,  in  ttie  Cierk's  Office  of  tlie  District  Court  of 
tiic  United  States  for  the  Southern  District  of  New-Tork. 
CS-"  Other  Journals  are  invited  to  copy  desirable  articles 
freely,  if  each  article  be  credited  to  American  Agriculturist. 


Contents  for  December,  1865. 


Apple  Sauce  Always  Ready . .....882 

Barn  Door  Fastening . Itiustrated..s69 

Dees— Apiary  in  December . 362 

Boots  and  Shoes— Greasing . 382 


Boys  and  Girls’  Columns  :  The  Last  Day  of  the  Year 
—Signaling  in  the  Army— Lively  Out-door  Games— 
Holiday  In-door  Games— Problems  and  Puzzles— 
The  Christmas  Tree— Force  of  Habit — Paiting  wilh 
an  Old  Friend — Premiums  for  Boys  and  Girls — 


'  Puzzles  for  the  Tongue . 5  //lustrations.. 382-384 

Braising  Meat . 382 

Bread — Pictorial  History . Illustrated .  .376 

Carving — Instructions  in . Illustrated.  .381 

Chestnuts  Improved  by  Cultivation .  Illustrated.  .ZII 

Codfish — How  to  Cook . 382 

Coleus  Verschafeltii . 377 

Corn  Bread — Good . 381 

Corn  Stalks— Cutting  for  Fodder . 371 

Education  Good  Enough  for  Farmers . . 374 

Farm  Work  in  December . 361 

Fish  Markets  of  New  York . 370 

Flower  Garden  and  Lawn  in  December . 362 

Fountain  at  Cazenovia . Illustrated.  .913 

Fruit  Garden  in  December . . . 362 

Garden — Kitchen  in  December . 362 

Genesee  Farmer  United  with  this  Journal . 364 

Grape  Vines — Method  of  Grafting . 379 

Grapes — Cold  Grapery  in  December . . . 362 

Grapes — Knox’s  Experience . 378 

Grapes — Notes  on  Culture,  etc .  379 

Green  and  Hot-Houses  in  December . 362 

Hogs — Care  of  in  Winter . 370 

Jack  Screws — Various  Uses . Illustrated.  .311 

Knox’s  Fruit  Farm  and  Grape  Festival . 378 

Market  Report  and  Commercial  Notes .  363 

Movements  of  Plants . Illustrated.  .380 

Mutton  the  Meat  for  the  Million. . . . 369 

Orchard  and  Nursery  in  December .  362 

Park  witli  Five  Acres  of  Land . 374 

Potato  Culture — Experiments . .375 

Premiums  for  1866 . 363 

Premiums — Special  of  Prize  Pigs,  etc . 363 

Publishers’ Special  Notice  to  Subscribers . 368 

Pudding  Sauce — Cheap  and  Good . 382 

Pulley — Uses  on  the  Farm . Illustrated.  .373 

Rye — Sowing  Late  in  the  Season . 371 

Sheep  Racks  and  Foddering . 3  Illustrations .  .369 

Sheep— Selection  for  Breeding .  370 

Snow — Tools  for  Clearing  Paths . 4  Illustrations .  .372 

Solanuin — Climbing . Illustrated . .  380 

Slable  Forks — Wooden . Illustrated. .  369 

Strawberry — Notes  on  the  “  Agriculturist.” . 368 

Tapioca — How  Prepared  for  Food . 'Illustrated.. 381 

Timber — Howto  Fell . Illustrated  .372 

Trailing  Arbutus  (£p/g<Ea  repens) . Illustrated  .377 

Tuberose — Cultivation . 3  Illustrations .  .37% 

Unseasonable  Growth  in  Trees,  etc . 375 

Venus’s  Fly  Trap . Illustrated.  .380 

Warmth  in  Houses . 382 

Water — Useful  and  Ornamental . Illustrated.  .373 

Western  Agriculture . 374 

Wood — Holder  for  Splitting .  Illustrated.  .372 


iNnEX  TO  “basket,”  or  shorter  articles. 


Animal  Traps . 

Fence  Posts,  Cliarring. 

.367 

Basket,  Tallc  about . 

.304 

Fence  Questions  . 

Book,  “  Great  West” . . 

.307 

Fruit  in  Minnesota . 

.365 

Book,  S.  S.  Lessons.., 

.367 

Gas  Lime . 

Book,  ZooloRV . 

.367 

Gift  Repeated . 

.364 

Cabbages,  Trouble  with.367 

Glanders  in  Horses 

..364 

Catalogues  Received... 

.365 

Golden  Censer . 

Canker  Worms . 

.366 

Hens,  Sickiv . 

.366 

Cider,  Keeping  Sweet.. 

.307 

Horse.s,  Slabbering . 

.366 

Clergymen,  Hint  to . 

364 

Inquiries,  Sundry . 

.867 

Colts,  Feeding . 

.366 

Lambs.  Early . 

.366 

Cow,  Alderney . 

.366 

Laurel  Poisoning . 

Cows,  Stripping . 

.366 

Leaky  Roofs  . 

.367 

Cranberries,  Fine . 

.367 

Marl  for  Fruit  Trees  . . . 

.367 

Death  of,  Prof  Lindley..365 

Medicines,  Quack . 

367 

Draining  Hard  Pan . 

.366 

Mulberry.  Everbearing. 

.365 

Fair,  Am.  Institute . 

.366 

Musical  Instruments... 

.365 

Feeding  too  Heavy . 

.366 

Paper,  Price  of . 

Pom.  Society,  Ohio . 365, Squashes,  Mixing . 367 

P.  O.  Money  Orders . 307  Stanctiions  vs.  Chains..  .366 

Potatoes,  Exhibition...  365  Steel  Plows,  Care  of _ 367 

Poultry,  Marketing . 365  Strawberries,  Late . 365 

Protecting  Plants  . 365,  Tile  Machines . 366 

Quinces,  Fine . 367  Tan  Bark,  etc . 366 

Receipts  not  Given . 364  Turnips  for  Horses . 365 

Rev.  Edward  Wilson...  .367, Veterinary  College . 363 

Rust,  Removing . 367,  Vineland . 365 

Selling  Produce . 366,  Violet,  Ever-blooming.  ..367 

Songs  of  Seven  . 365  Volumes  Bound . 364 

Southern  Region . 366:  Wine  Making . 365 

Squaslies,  Large . 367  Woolens,  High  Price.  ...367 


Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  Month. 

This  is  the  month  of  cold  when  it  is  most 
piercing,  of  winds  when  they  are  harsiiest,  of 
hunger  when  it  is  most  distressing — of  firesides 
when  most  cheerfui,  of  snug  warm  liouses  when 
most  agreeable,  and  of  good  fare  when  it  is  most 
satisfactory.  If  the  cattle  of  any  well-to-do 
fitrmer  are  sliivering  under  tlie  lea  of  tlie  corn- 
stack,  if  his  sheep  are  slirinkiiig  away  from  tlie 
gale  ill  the  fence  corners,  and  if  tlie  young  stock 
are  gnawing  frozen  sods  or  cornstalks  for  a  liv¬ 
ing,  we  would  lie  glad  to  have  their  lowings  and 
bleatings  so  constantly  in  his  ears  that  he  could 
take  no  comfort  of  his  own  pleasant  things  till 
lie  liad  made  his  stock  as  comfortable  as  pos- 
silile.  Tlie  President  invites  us  to  solemnize  tlie 
seventh  day  of  this  moiitli  in  tlianksgiving  to 
God  for  all  ids  mercies  and  blessings,  both 
private  and  national.  Let  ns  do  so  heartily  and 
practically.  Man  shows  his  thankfulness  to  the 
All-giver  for  His  bounties,  by  thonghtful  care  for 
the  comfort  of  His  creatures.  What  are  thanks¬ 
givings  of  tlie  lips  but  solemn  mockeries,  if  un¬ 
accompanied  by  deeds  of  kindness !  The  les¬ 
sons  of  the  happy  Christmas  time,  and  of  tlie 
closing  year  liave  their  application  in  tiie  farm¬ 
house  and  ill  the  stock-yard,  as  well  as  in  the 
cliurch  and  in  tlie  class  room. 

Accounts. — Devote  sufficient  time  to  a  tliorougli 
going  over  of  all  accounts,and  begin  tlie  new  year 
with  a  clear  statement  of  j'our  debts  and  dues. 

Animals.— In  our  latitude,  tlie  present  is  a 
trying  month  for  animals  of  all  kinds.  In  many 
places  they  are  passing  from  grass  to  fodder. 
Every  animal,  from  the  work  liorses  down  to 
late  chickens,  should  receive  special  attention. 
What  every  aiiiinal  needs  at  this  season  of  the 
year  is,  eiiougli  to  eat  and  protection  from 
storms.  When  cold  weather  first  comes  oii,young 
animals  in  particular  often  suffer  much  more 
tlian  after  their  systems  liave  become  used  to  it. 

Ashes. — Leaclied  or  uuleached,  wood,  or  coal 
(if  free  from  slate  and  clinker,)  are  excellent  for 
top-dressing  lawns,  meadows  and  pastures ;  and 
the  more  there  are  scattered  around  fruit  trees 
of  all  kinds,  the  better  will  be  the  fruit.  Instead 
of  collecting  tliem  in  heaps,  scatter  wliere  they 
are  needed,  as  soon  as  convenient  quantities  ac¬ 
cumulate.  Ashes  heaped  up  against  young  trees 
will  often  destroy  the  bark  and  kill  them. 

Barns. — If  not  already  attended  to,  delay  not 
to  put  every  building  in  order  for  winter.  Loose  ! 


shingles  and  boards  sliould  be  nailed  ;  tlie  large 
cracks  between  ridge  boards  need  closing  nji  witli 
long  nails;  and  the  siding  sliould  sometimes 
be  taken  off,  jointed  and  replaced,  to  exclude 
snow  and  keep  rain  from  rotting  tlie  timbers. 
Wlierever  tlie  ground  descends  towards  tlie 
foundation  walls,  a  few  loads  of  eartli  should 
be  hauled  in,  to  turn  the  surface  water  off  be¬ 
fore  the  ground  freezes,  as  the  expansion  of  tlie 
eartli  will  often  crowd  walls  inwards,  after 
freezing  a  few  times.  If  the  ground  descends 
from  the  wall,  the  water  will  be  carried  away 
and  the  expansion  will  he  less  forcible  against 
tlie  wall.  Make  a  little  mortar  and  stop  all 
crevices,  not  only  in  the  walls,  hut  between  the 
sills  and  foundation,  to  exclude  cold  air  from 
the  apartments  of  animals. 

Bai'n-yai'ds. — Before  the  gi'onnd  freezes,  scrape 
all  the  fine  manure  into  heaps  and  haul  it  to 
meadows,  or  pastures  for  a  top-dressing.  It  will 
act  as  a  mulch  to  the  grass  roots.  Clean  out 
all  surface  ditches  near  the  yards,  and  cut  shal¬ 
low  channels  where  they  are  needed  to  prevent 
surface  water  from  flowing  into  any  part  of  the 
yard.  Remove  all  stones  and  sticks  liable  to 
be  covered  with  manure  and  hjnder  pitching. 

Beans. — Dry  and  shell  all  that  are  unripe  be¬ 
fore  freezing,  as  they  will  make  good  feed  for 
sheep ;  freezing  before  they  are  ripe,  spoils  them. 

Beeves. — Bullocks  or  .dry  cows  should  be  con¬ 
fined  a  large  proportion  of  the  time  iu  close 
yards,  or  spacious  stalls,  well  littered.  Feed 
with  hay,  coi'ii  meal  and  some  pumpkins,  or 
roots.  Better  feed  bountifully  and  fatten  rapid¬ 
ly,  than  to  give  a  small  allowance  and  fatten 
slowly.  Bear  in  mind  that  it  is  estimated  to 
cost  to  maintain  the  animal  heat  of  a  bullock 
during  one  cold  night  in  the  open  air,  not  less 
than  one  pound  of  the  best  meat. 

Calves  and  Colts. — Do  not  fail  to  provide 
comfortable  winter  quarters  for  these  young 
animals,  lest  they  lose  flesh,  run  down,  get  off 
their  feed,  and  become  what  is  called  spring  poor. 

Cows. — Beef  is  scarce  and  the  price  high,  and 
for  this'reason  we  consider  it  had  policy  to  sell 
good  cows  for  beef,  as  many  people  did  last 
season,  because  the}’  commanded  a  high  price. 
Better  hold  on  to  good  cows  for  breeding. 

Corn. — Spread  all  soft  ears  on  a  floor  in  an 
airy  place,  where  it  will  shortly  be  dry  enough 
to  grind  for  feed.  Save  best  ears  for  seed. 

Brains. — Clear  tlie  outlets  of  nnder-drains  bj’ 
shoveling  out  all  sediment  that  will  obstruct  the 
flow  of  water  from  the  drains  during  winter, 
and  protect  them  against  being  entered  by  mice. 

Eaves  Troughs. — Before  freezing  weather,  re¬ 
move  leaves  and  all  other  -secliment  wliicli 
settle  in  the  eaves  troughs.  When  cistern  water 
is  not  used  for  drink,  for  culinary  purposes,  or 
for  stock,  it  is  a  good  plan  to  paint  the  troughs 
over  with  gas  or  coal  tar,  applied  hot  after 
boiling  it  an  hour;  it  is  a  good  preservative. 


36:2 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Decembek, 


Vary  the  fodder  of  all  kinds  of  stock  as 
mneh  as  possible  within  reasonable  limits.  It  is 
better  to  change  it  on  different  days,  or  even  at  ditfer- 
eut  meals,  than  to  make  too  great  mixtures.  Hay 
and  straw  may  be  mixed  ;  ground  grains,  bran,  oil 
meal,  etc.,  may  be  mixed  with  hay,  straw',  stalks  or 
roots.  Feed  different  kinds  of  roots  separately. 

Fuel. — Begin  early  to  look  out  for  next  season’s 
supply  from  the  wood-lot.  It  is  poor  economy  to 
burn  green  wood ;  better  to  let  it  stand  in  a  hot 
place,  or  lie  in  the  stove  oven  to  dry  well.  Wa¬ 
ter  put  upon  the  Are  only  tends  to  put  it  out. 

Grain  Fields.— \i  is  a  rare  thing  when  grain  fields 
arc  not  more  or  less  damaged  by  “  feeding  off”  in 
the  autumn.  Sometimes  it  seems  useful,  but  is  risk}'. 

Horses. — Keep  brood  marcs  in  loose  boxes,  10  feet 
square,  and  when  possible  give  each  one  a  sunny 
yard  to  go  to  at  pleasure  iu  all  weathers,  when  it  is 
not  too  slqipery.  Be  careful  of  their  slipping  on 
the  ice.  Keep  all  work  horses  well  shod  and  sharp 
caulked,  but  do  not  let  horses  play  together  if  shod. 

Implements. — If  there  is  no  room  in  the  sheds  for 
implements,  pack  them  together  and  improvise  a 
roof  of  boards  tacked  together ;  by  no  means  leave 
them  exposed  to  the  weather  to  be  rotted. 

Manure. — Save  every  particle  of  liquid  manure. 
If  short  of  litter  in  the  stables,  use  soil  or  muck  as 
.an  absorbent.  See  that  no  water  runs  into  the 
barnyard.  Keep  the  manure  in  one  or  more  com¬ 
pact,  well  formed  heaps,  so  placed  that  the  leach- 
iugs  may  be  pumped  over  it. 

Meadoies. — Avoid  feeding  off  the  meadows  too 
close,  let  no  heavy  animals  go  on  the  grass 
land  at  all  in  soft  weather,  when  they  will  poach 
up  and  injure  the  sod.  Turn  water  from  the  high¬ 
ways  or  uplands  upon  the  meadow's  and  pastures, 
where  it  will  deposit  much  manurial  matter. 

Oxen. — Keep  them  in  sheltered  sheds,  or  better, 
in  good  warm  stables,  w'ell  fed  and  carded  frequent¬ 
ly.  Spring  poor  oxen,  or  young  cattle,  are  a  dis¬ 
grace  to  any  farmer.  Do  not  neglect  shoeing  in 
frozen  weather. 

Poitltry.— Fill  a  box  before  the  snow  covers  the 
ground,  with  a  bushel  or  tw'o  of  clean  gravel,  but  if 
this  cannot  be  found,  pound  up  some  large  stones, 
best  sand  stones.  Give  pounded  bones  and  other 
animal  food  with  the  grain,  and  see  that  they  all 
have  sheltered  roosting  places.  If  in  w'arm  houses 
well  lighted,  they  will  lay  if  well  fed. 

Sheep. — December  is  the  most  important  month 
in  the  year,  in  this  latitude,  to  effect  anything  iu 
improving  sheep.  Read  remarks  on  another  page. 
Good  protection  from  storms,  and  regular  feeding- 
are  most  important.  It.  is  better  to  commence  now 
feeding  lambs  and  all  kinds  of  sheep  a  little  grain 
daily,  than  to  wait  until  they  begin  to  lose  flesh. 

Swine. — Keej)  fattening  hogs  in  comfortable  apart¬ 
ments  and  feed  regularly.  So  long  as  swine  will 
increase  iu  weight  half  of  one  per  cent,  dally,  they 
are  doing  well.  When  they  eat  little  and  do  not  in¬ 
crease  in  w'eight,  the  sooner  they  are  slaughtered 
the  better.  Platform  scales,  with  an  extra  platform 
for  a  hog  to.  stand  on,  are  convenient  for  w'eighing 
fattening  swine,  to  know  how  fast  they  gain. 

Water. — See  that  water  does  not  stand  on  winter 
grain,  nor  for  a  long  time  on  grass  ground.  A  few 
hours’  work  w'ith  spade  and  shovel  will  often  release 
numerous  small  ponds,  which  would  materially 
injure  vegetation.  Surface  water  frequently  settles 
and  remains  a  long  time  in  low  jdaces  near  fruit 
trees,  vines,  or  bushes,  to  their  great  injury. 

Work  ill  the  Orcliard  and  Nursery. 

In  December  the  Calendar  is  usually  much  ab¬ 
breviated,  owing  to  the  crowd  of  other  matter  at 
the  close  of  the  year.  It  is  usually  such  an  uncer¬ 
tain  month  that  either  nearly  nothing  can  be  done 
in  the  way  of  out-door  work,  or  it  is  like  a  con¬ 
tinuation  of  November,  in  which  case  the  opera¬ 
tions  noted  in  the  Calendar  for  that  mouth  may  be 
performed.  Every  day’s  work  that  can  be  done 
now  In  preparing  the  soil,  draining,  staking  out  the 
ground,  and  even  making  the  holes  for  planting- 
trees  is  worth  putting  in,  as  spring  work  is  always 


crowded,  no  matter  how  favorable  the  season  may 
be  for  operating,  or  how  much  help  we  may  have. 

Cions. — Cut  from  vigorous  growth  of  the  past 
season,  tie  each  sort  in  a  bundle,  with  a  plain  label, 
and  bury  in  the  cellar,  or  put  them  in  a  box  of 
sandy  loam,  in  some  place  where  they  will  not  dry. 

Fruit. — Keep  at  as  low  a  temperature  as  possible 
without  freezing.  The  more  uniformly  it  can  be 
maintained  at  34°  or  36°,  the  longer  and  better  it 
will  keep.  Send  choice  apples  and  pears  to  market 
just  before  the  holidays,  as  the  prices  are  then  high. 

Manure. — Continue  to  apply  to  bearing  trees  a 
libei-al  dressing,  as  recommended  in  October. 

Mice  and  Rabbits. — Mice  do  the  most  mischief  to 
young  trees  when  they  can  work  under  the  shelter 
of  rubbish  or  light  snow.  Keep  litter  away  from 
contact  with  the  trunk,  and  pack  the  snow  solid 
with  the  foot.  Among  the  many  things  proposed 
to  keep  rabbits  away,  blood  seems  to  be  the  most 
successful.  Rubbing  the  trunks  with  liver  or 
bloody  meat  makes  the  bark  offensive  to  them. 

Ntirsenj. — Stocks  for  root-grafting  may  still  be 
taken  up  iu  mild  weather,  when  the  roots  will  not 
be  frozen.  Make  surface  drains  to  carry  water 
away  from  seedlings  and  other  young  trees.  Look 
out  for  stakes  and  see  that  every  row  can  be  iden¬ 
tified  by  some  means.  See  that  all  heeled-in  stock 
is  sufficiently  covered  and  drained.  Prepare  stakes, 
tags,  and  all  packing  appli.ances  that  will  be  needed 
when  spring  trade  opens.  Head  back  and  shape 
young  trees  in  mild  weather,  taking  care  not  to 
cut  so  close  to  a  bud  that  it  Avill  be  killed. 

Pruning. — Such  pruning  as  can  be  done  with  a 
knife  may  be  attended  to  at  any  convenient  time. 


Kitclieia  Garden. — A  good  gai-denei-,like 
the  sailor,  keeps  a  “bright  lookout  ahead.”  He 
who  shuts  up  Ills  garden  gate  at  the  first  hard  frost 
and  does  no  more  work  until  spring  opens,  is  al¬ 
ways  behind  hand.  There  are  frequently,  even  in 
December,  many  days  in  which  the  plow  and  spade 
may  be  prontably  kept  at  work  in  preparing  land 
for  spring  planting.  Clean  up  all  neglected  rubbish 
and  save  so  much  time  in  spiring.  At  odd  times 
lay  in  a  stock  of  all  kinds  of  stakes,  poles  and  brush 
that  are  likely  to  be  needed.  See  that  fences  are 
tight  and  that  gates  will  shut  and  stay  so. 

Celery. — Protect  the  tops  by  means  of  leaves  or 
lltter.  For  a  small  quantity  a  shelter  of  old  boards 
m-ay  be  put  over,  with  straw  or  marsh  hay  beneath. 

Cold  Frames. — The  chief  point  in  successful 
wintering  of  cabbage  and  other  plants,  is  to  give 
all  the  ventilation  possible,  without  exposing  the 
plants  to  too  great  cold.  Mice  are  often  destruc¬ 
tive  and  must  be  trapped  or  poisoned.  Have  mats 
or  shutters  at  hand  to  use  in  severe  weather. 

ComjMst. — Winter  is  the  great  season  for  accu¬ 
mulating  a  supply  of  fertilizers.  The  piggery, 
horse  and  cow  stables,  and  privy,  are  all  to  bo  made 
the  most  of.  Muck,  or  iu  lack  of  that,  black  earth 
should  be  at  hand  to  absorb  all  liquids.  Look 
about  for  other  supplies,  and  see  what  material 
may  be  had  from  breweries,  distilleries,  slaughter 
houses,  and  various  manufactories,  not  forgetting 
street  sweepings.  There  is  in  every  neighborhood 
something  going  to  waste  that  the  soil  should  have. 

Hot-beds. — One  who  is  handy  with  tools  may  make, 
paint,  and  glaze  his  own  sash  and  prepare  frames. 

Seeds. — Have  the  home  raised  stock  well  cared 
for.  Clean  out  all  of  doubtful  quality  or  identity. 
Ascertain  what  is  to  be  bought  and  be  ready  to 
purchase  as  soon  as  seedsmen  offer  their  stock. 

Tools. — Repair  while  there  is  leisure.  If  there  is 
no  place  set  apart  for  tools,  make  a  room  iu  the 
barn  or  some  building  and  have  a  place  for  every¬ 
thing,  so  that  the  absence  of  any  implement  can  be 
detected  at  a  glance.  Grease  iron  and  steel  tools. 

Fruit  Garden. — General  work  of  prepara¬ 
tion  may  be  done,  .as  directed  under  Orchard  and 
Nursery.  If  the  pruning  of  currants  and  gooseber¬ 
ries  was  not  done  hast  month,  do  it  now.  If  it  is 
de.sircd  to  use  the  cuttings  of  the  new  wood  for 
propag.ation,  tie  them  in  bundles  and  treat  them  as 


directed  last  mouth.  If  dwarf  trees  are  liable  to 
be  injured  from  accumulations  of  snow  iu  the 
br.anches,  shake  it  out  before  it  gets  compact. 
Borers  may  be  probed  out  by  means  of  a  wire. 
Manure  trees  and  shrubs,  as  directed  under  orchard. 
Grape  vines  should  have  been  pruned  last  month, 
but  it  may  be  done  now  in  mild  weather.  We  have 
heretofore  given  the  method  to  be  followed  iu  cer¬ 
tain  systems  of  teaming,  and  presume  that  all  who 
have  many  vines,  have  some  reliable  treatise  upon 
this  subject.  If  the  wood  removed  in  trimming  is 
to  be  used  for  propagation,  keep  it  where  it  will 
not  dry.  As  soon  as  the  ground  is  slightly  frozen, 
give  strawberry  plants  a  covering  of  straw  or  leaves. 


Flower  Garden  and  Liawn. — If 

proper  winter  protection  has  been  given  and  all 
rubbish  cleared  up,  there  will  be  but  little  out  of 
door  work  to  be  done.  Hardy  climbing  roses  will 
come  out  all  the  better  iu  the  spring,  if  they  can  be 
detached  from  their  trellises  and  Laid  upon  the 
ground.  The  perpetuals  and  less  hardy  sorts  may 
be  bent  down  and  covered  with  earth.  Lawns  may 
have  a  good  top-dressing  of  compost.  Save  all  the 
leaves  for  hot-bed  and  other  uses.  If  snow  collects 
in  evergreens  and  clumps  of  shrubbery,  shake  it  off 
before  it  becomes  icy.  Much  may  be  done  in  the 
way  of  planning-  improvements  to  be  carried  out 
when  the  weather  permits.  Materials  for  rustic 
work  m.ay  be  brought  from  the  woods,  and  seats, 
vases,  etc.,  may  be  made  up  from  seasoned  material. 


Green  and  Ilot-Hoiises. — Tempera¬ 
ture,  moisture  and  ventilation  are  the  three  essen¬ 
tials  to  be  regarded.  The  amount  of  heat  will  de¬ 
pend  upon  the  kind  of  plants,  but  in  auy  case  sud¬ 
den  changes  are  to  be  avoided.  In  green-houses, 
where  plants  are  merely  kept  over,  they  will  do 
well  if  the  temperature  is  not  allowed  to  sink 
below  40°,  but  there  are  few  things  that  flower  well 
if  kept  less  than  60°. 

Bulbs. — Bring  the  pots  forward,  a  few  at  a  time, 
gradually  to  the  warmth  and  light.  Remove  the 
flower  stalk  as  soon  as  out  of  bloom,  but  allow  the 
leaves  to  remain  to  perfect  the  bulb. 

Camellias. — Use  the  syringe  freely.  A  dry,  warm 
atmosphere  causes  the  buds  to  drop.  Those  in 
dwelling  houses  need  to  have  the  foliage  sponged. 

Carnations. — Keep  rather  cool,  with  plenty  of 
light,  and  do  not  over-water. 

Cacti. — Most  of  these  need  rest  and  but  little 
water,  except  the  Epiphyllums,  which  are  wiuter 
blooming,  need  warmth  and  sufficient  water. 

Fuchsias. — Keep  the  young  plants  growing  rapid¬ 
ly,  and  train  to  good  shape  by  pinching. 

Pelargoniums. — These  to  grow  and  flower  well, 
need  to  be  as  near  as  possible  to  the  glass.  Judicious 
pruning  and  tying  will  make  shapely  specimens. 


Cold  Grapery. — Prune  vines  and  pre¬ 
pare  them  for  their  winter  sleep.  Chorltou,  iu  his 
Grape-Grower’s  Guide,  recommends  covering  the 
canes  with  the  following  mixture,  to  destroy  larva; 
and  eggs  of  insects:  Whale-oil  soap  lb.,  sulphur 
4  lbs.,  tobacco  H>.,  powdered  mix  vomica  1  oz. 
Pour  over  these  1  gallon  of  boiling  water  and  atir 
well  together,  and  apply  with  a  paint  brush.  To 
lay  the  vine  down,  tie  it  to  the  wire  at  about'two 
feet  from  the-gl-ound,  and  then  bend  the  por¬ 
tion  above  this  point  to  a  horizontal  position, 
cover  about  three  inches  thick  with  straw  and  tie  it 
on,  or  put  up  boards  in  front  of  the  vines  and  cover 
with  forest  leaves.  Kee})  the  house  cool  by  open¬ 
ing  ventilators  on  clear  days ;  close  at  night,  and 
on  cloudy  and  severe  days. 


xlpiary  in  I>eceiiil»ev. — Prepared  by  M. 
Quinby,  by  request. — When  all  the  fine  days,  in 
which  the  bees  can  fly,  have  passed,  it  is  time  to 
jjut  them  into  winter  quarters.  Those  who  have 
but  few,  and  cannot  afford  to  prepare  special  de¬ 
positories,  should  select  only  the  best  stocks.  Any 
that  are  deficient  in  supplies  and  numbers  of  bees, 
had  better  be  taken  up  even  now,  than  consume 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


363 


houey  a  loug  time,  an^  then  die.  Second  and  third 
rate  stocks  can  only  be  wintered  successfully  in  a 
room  containing  near  one  hundred  hives.  Strong 
stocks  generate  heat,  warm  the  whole  room,  and 
benefit  the  weak  ones.  A  few  stocks  may  be  safely 
buried  in  the  ground,  in  a  dry  place,  the  hives  sur¬ 
rounded  by  straw  to  absorb  all  the  moisture.  Good 
stocks  in  the  open  air,  in  hives  properly  ventilated 
and  protected,  are  quite  sure  to  pass  the  winter 
safely.  Probably  there  is  no  way  that  bees  can  be 
wintered  so  comfortably  and  with  so  little  superin¬ 
tendence  as  on  the  summer  stand,  in  the  straw 
hive,  already  described  in  the  Anm'ican  Agriculturist 
for  October,  1863,  page  301.  Those  who  have  pre¬ 
pared  their  hives  as  recommended,  will  find  the 
early  part  of  this  month  a  good  time  to  transfer 
bees  to  the  new  hives. 

Commercial  Matters— Market  Prices. 


The  following  condensed,  comprehensive  tables,  care¬ 
fully  prepared  specially  for  the  American  Agriculturist, 
show  at  a  glance  the  transactions  for  a  month  ending  No¬ 
vember  17th,  with  other  interesting  comparative  figures. 


1. 


TEA.NSAOTIONS  AT  TUE  XEW-YOKK  M.ARKETS. 


Receipts.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 
27  days  this  m’tli.414.000  617,000  3,163,000  137,000  1,329,000  1,175,000 
24  days  last  m'tli,  357,000  441,000  2,779,000  64,000  636,000  937,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

27  days  month,  317,000  1,616,000  2,639,000  141,000  838,000 

24  days  te,v«  month,  367,000  1,789,000  1,984,000  63,000  385,000 

JJ.  Comparison  with  same  period  at  this  time  last  year. 
Receipts,  Flour,  meat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley.  Oats. 

27  days  1863 . 414,000  617,000  3,163,000  137,000 1,329,000  1,173,000 

27  days  1864 . 481,000  1,287,000  988,000  239,000  861,000  2,534,000 

Sales.  Flour.  Wheat.  Corn.  Rye.  Barley. 

27  days  1863  .  317,000  1,616,000  2,629,000  141,000  838,000 

27  days  1864  .  458,000  1,411,000  1,132,000  174,300  613,000 

3.  Exports  from  New-York,  January  1  to  Nov.  17. 

flour.  Wheat,  Corn,  Rye,  Oats, 

1865 .  1,214,378  1,947,424  3,276,163  170,601  69,831 

1864  .  1,764,342  11,982,576  814,608  453  39,643 

1863  .  2,278,535  14,199,328  7,486,835  415,249  123,996 

11)2  .  2,683,086  23,216,817  10,342,556  1,888,790  144,165 

Current  Wiiolesalk  Prices 


Flour— Super  to  E.vtra  State  $7  90 
Super  to  E.vtra  Southern,  . .  9  60 

Extra  Western .  8  50 

Extra  Genesee .  9  00 

Superfine  Western .  7  90 

Rye  Flour . .  6  23 

Corn  Meal .  4  75 

Whe.at— All  kinds  of  White.  2  40 
All  kinds  of  Red  and  Amber,  1  72 

Corn— Yellow  .  92 

Mixed . 78 

Oats— W  estern .  58 

State .  — 

Rye  . .  1  13 

Barley  .  1  09 

Cotton— Middlings,  ^  lt> _  58 

Hops— Crop  of  1864,  ^  lb .  10 

Feathers— Live  Geese,  ^  Ib.  .  88 

Seed— Clover,  *1  lb  .  13 

Timothy,  ^  bushel .  3  75 

Flax,  ^I'hushel .  2  80 

Sugar- Brown,  ^  Ib  .  12 

Molasses,  Cuba,  ^gl .  50 

Coffee- Rio,  lb .  18 

Tobacco,  Kentucky,  &c.,  ^  lb,  6 

Seed  Leaf,  ?)B) .  7 

Wool— Domestic  Fleece,  Ib,  56 

Domestic,  pulled,  19  Ib . .  50 

California,  unwashed, .  IS 

Tallow,  lb  .  14 

Oil  Cake— ^  ton .  50  00 

Pork— Mess,  barrel .  34  73 

Prime,  barrel  .  30  00 

Beef— Plain  mess . 10  50 

Lard,  in  barrels,  lb .  24 

Butter — Western,  Ib .  32 

State,  B) .  40 

Cheese .  14 

Beans— bushel .  1  50 

Peas— Canada,  bushel .  1  33 

EQGS—Fresh,  ^  dozen .  33 

POULTRY'— Fowls,  Ib .  18 

Turkeysi,  lb .  19 

Potatoes— Mercers,  ^  bbl . ,  2  23 

Peach  Blows,  ^barrel . .  2  00 

Buckeyes— New,  barrel.,,,  150 
Apples— ^  “barrel .  3  00 


@  8  90 

$7  70 

@  8  40 

@16  00 

9  50 

@16  *25 

@16  00 

8  20 

@16  00 

@12  75 

8  50 

@12  ‘25 

@  8  10 

7  70 

@  8  00 

®  7  25 

6  25 

@  7  00 

@  5  25 

4  40 

®  4  85 

@  2  65 

2  45 

®  2  80 

@  2  42 

1  70 

@  2  45 

@  95 

1  00 

@  1  03 

@  92 

90 

@  97 

@  62 

GO 

@  62 

@  (13 

61 

@  62 

@  1  18 

1  15 

@  1  20 

@  1  25 

1  10 

@  1  28 

@  60 

51 

@  33 

@  15 

10 

@  43 

@  1  00 

90 

@  93 

@  15 

13 

@  14 

@  4  25 

3  30 

@  3  90 

@  3  00 

2  85 

@  3  10 

®  17)4 

ii;^@  16K 

@  85 

45 

@  70 

@  22 

18 

®  21 

@  20 

6 

@  30 

®  SO 

5 

@  40 

@  80 

55 

@  82 

@  67 

45 

@  75 

@  46 

25 

@  43 

@  14K 

U'A®  14^ 

@55  00 

50  00 

@33  00 

@35  87)4  32  75 

@33  00 

@30  50 

— 

@28  .50 

@13  50 

11  00 

@14  00 

@  285f 

24 

@  'iS'A 

@  42 

30 

®  42 

@  55 

38 

@  45 

@  18)4 

11 

@  19 

@  2  25 

1  30 

@  1  75 

@  1  40 

1  20 

@  1  22 

@  36 

37 

@  41 

@  21 

16 

@  18 

@  20 

19 

@  20 

@  2  50 

2  50 

@  3  00 

®  2  ‘25 

2  25 

@  2  50 

@  1  75 

2  50 

@  5  00 

@  6  50 

2  50 

@  6  OO 

ov.  17)  or  '2% 

per  cent. 

since  the  date  of  onr  last  (Oct.  16),  eliiefly  under  an  ac¬ 
tive  demand  for  coin  to  pay  Custom  duties  on  the  heavy 
imports  of  foreign  goods.  Breadstuffs  have  been  un¬ 
settled  in  price  during  tlie  month.  Tlie  demand  has  been 
more  active,  partly  for  export.  Flour  has  been  freely 
offered  and  has  declined,  closing  in  favor  of  buyers. 
Sound  lots  of  Grain,  especially  of  Wheat,  Corn,  and 
Oats,  have  been  in  very  moderate  supply,  and  held  with 
much  firmne.'s.  Unsound  lots  have  been  cpiite  plenty 
and  much  pressed.  The  bulk  of  the  current  receipts  of 
Corn  and  Oats  is  heated  and  damaged.  There  has  been 
less  disposition  to  specul-ate,  in  view  of  the  stringency  in 
money.  Most  of  the  recent  purchases  of  Flour  and 
Wheat  on  speculation  have  been  made  on  Western  ac¬ 
count.  The  stocks  on  hand  here  aie  fair,  but  not  large 
for  the  season,  and  holders  do  not  seem  to  be  very  eager 
to  realize _ Cotton  has  been  much  more  abundant  and 


prices  have  declined  materially,  closing,  however,  with 
rather  more  steadines.s  under  an  improved  export  de¬ 
mand _ Provisions  have  been  more  freely  dealt  in  at 

irreguiar  prices.  Hog  products  close  heavily;  Beef, 

Butter,  and  Cheese  firmly _ Hay,  Hops,  and  Tobacco 

have  been  in  fair  demand  at  steady  rates. ...  Wool  has  been 
in  less  demand,  and  except  for  the  choicest  grades, which 
have  been  scarce  and  firm,  prices  have  tended  downward, 
under  efforts  to  realize  on  accumulating  supplies. 

]^ew  York  Live  Stork  Itlarkets. — 
Beef  Cattle.— Average  supply  per  week  for  the  past 
month  has  been  6,386  head  ;  for  the  previous  month,  6,427  ; 
same  month  last  year,  6,559.  The  quality  has  been  very 
variable,  scarcely  an  average.  Prices  of  same  grades 
have  not  materially  changed.  The  general  selling  prices 
for  extra  grades,  KtaASyic  per  lb.,  for  estimated  dressed 
weight ;  medium  to  prime,  15®171<iC  ;  poor  to  common, 
8(314c.  At  last  quotations,  a  very  few  choice  lots  sold 
as  high  as  18K(a)20c  per  lb.,  net  ...MIlcli  Cows, — 
Average  weekly  supply,  109.  The  demand  has  been  ac¬ 
tive  and  prices  high  ;  extra  milkers,  $100(®$130  ;  ordinary 
to  medium,  $60(S90 ;  poor  to  common,  $40(S$55.... 
Veal  Calves. — Average  supply,  1,132  per  week.  La¬ 
test  prices,  ll(S)14c  per  lb.,  live  weight,  for  medium 
grades  upward.  Inferior  qualities,  6fS9c.  Sheep  and 
hambs,-  Receipts  large,  the  weekly  average  amount¬ 
ing  to  25,868.  The  quality  has  improved,  and  prices  hawe 
advanced  a  little,  standing  now  at  7  J4®8?ic  per  lb.,  live 
weight.  Lambs  of  fair  to  extra  quality,  8(S)llc  per  lb. 
—  I/tve  Hogs, — Weekly  receipts,  16,092.  Latest 
prices  for  corn-fed,  13(S)13%c  per  lb.,  live  weight. 


Excellent  Premiums. 

Open  to  Everybody — A  First-rate  Opportu¬ 
nity  to  seenre  Gootl  and  De.sirablc  Things 
without  Expense,  and  benefit  others  at . 
the  same  time. — Every  thing  offered  is 
new,  and  of  the  best  quality  and  make. 
—Good  Books,  Good  Seeds,  Plants,  and 
Grape  Vines ;  Good  Prnit  Trees, 
Skrubs,  and  otlier  Nursery  Stock ; 

Good  Household  and  Farm  Im- 
i  cments  ;  Good  Pianos,  Melo- 
deons,  etc.,  etc.— Sometliing  to 
meet  tlie  wants  of  Everybody, 
and  Everybody  is  invited 
to  secure  one  or  more 
of  tJiese  Premiums. 


In  tile  next  column  we  offer  a  fine  list  of  Premium 
articles  to  those  who  will  take  the  trouble  to  collect  and 
forward  clubs  of  subscribers.  We  know  every  article  is 
good  and  desirable.  Thousands  of  per-sons  may  each  ob¬ 
tain  one  or  more  of  these  premiums  witli  very  little 
trouble.  Men  and  Women,  Postmasters  and  their  Clerks, 
Agricultural  Societies,  Soldiers,  Clergymen,  Teachers, 
Widows,  Farmer.s,  Mechanics,  Storekeepers,  Boys,  Girls, 
indeed  almost  every  class  may  each  gather  names  of  sub¬ 
scribers  enougli  to  secure  some  one  or  more  of  the  desi¬ 
rable  articles  in  the  list  of  things  offered.  The  supply  of 
each  of  these  premium  articles  is  abundant  enougli  to 
give  all  who  want  them  a  chance,  and  plenty  of  time  will 
be  given  to  fill  up  a  list,  though  now  is  tlie  best  time  lo 
begin  making  up  a  club. 

The  Table  on  next  column  gives  only  the  list  of  ar¬ 
ticles,  their  value,  and  the  number  of  subscribers  requir¬ 
ed  for  each,  at  the  regular  subscription  rate  $1.50  a  year, 
or  at  the  lowest  club  rate  w-hen  large  clubs  are  made  up 
($1).  But  let  every  one  thinking  of  securing  a  premium, 
SEND  FOR  OUR  DESCRIPTION  LIST, 
WHICH  GIVES  FULL  PARTICULARS  ABOUT 
EACH  PREMIUM,  ETC.  IT  WILL  BE  SENT 
FREE  TO  ALL  APPLICANTS. 

As  fast  as  any  subscriptions  are  obtained,  send  them 
along,  that  the  subscribers  may  begin  to  receive  the 
paper  ;  and  when  all  the  names  that  can  be  obtained  are 
forwarded,  select  the  premium  desired,  and  it  will  be 
promptly  furnislied.  To  save  mistakes  and  the  keeping 


of  money  accounts,  send  with  each  name,  or  list  of  names, 
the  exact  subscription  money  ;  or  send  at  first  the  full 
amount  for  a  club,  and  receive  the  premium,  and  tliei> 
forward  the  names  as  obtained. 

To  avoid  errors  and  save  immense  labor  in  looking  over 
our  books,  it  is  absolutely  essential  that  every  name  design¬ 
ed  for  a  premium  list  be  so  marked  when  sent  in.  (Such 
names  are  credited  lo  the  sender  in  a  separate  book,  as 
fast  as  received— ready  for  instant  reference.) 

Old  and  new  subscribers  will  count  in  premium  lists, 
but  they  should  be  partly  new  names,  for  it  is  to  obtain 
■such  that  the  premiums  are  in  part  offered.  Premium 
clubs  need  not  all  be  at  one  Post  office.  Of  course 
only  one  premium  W'iU  be  given  for  the  same  subscriber. 

The  extra  copy,  usually  offered  to  clubs  of  10  or  20, 
will  not  be  furnished  when  a  premium  is  given. 

Table  of  Fremiums  and  Terms,  (5^ 

For  Volume  25.  §2. 

Open  to  all— -No  Competition.  S  ^ 

TO  ^ 

Names  of  Premium  Articles.  j _ 

1— Goon  Books— iiSee  terms  below* . . 

Garden  Seeds  for  a  Family  (40  kinds). .  .$5 

3— Flower  Seeds  for  a  Family  (100  kinds)..  $5 

4:— Nursery  Stock  (any  Kinds  desired) . $20 

5- ^Iona  Grape  Vines  (l)d  of  No.  1)  . ,  ...$18 

6—  Concord  Grape  Vines  (100  of  No.l)  ..$12 

T"— Strawberry  Flants  (100  of  good  Kinds)  .  ^5 

8—  Japan  Lilies  (1^3  Bulbs) .  $6 

9—  Downing’s  Landscape  Gardening . $6 

10—  American  Cyclopedia . $80 

11—  Mitchell’s  New  General  Atlas . $10 

13 — Worcester’s  Great  Illustrat’d  Dictionary$12 


13—  Any  back  Volume  Ag7'ic2ilturist,' 

14 —  Any  Two  back  Volumes  do 


l.'i— Any  Three  do 

16—  Any  Four  do 

17—  Any  Five  do 

18—  Any  Six  do 

19—  Any  Seven  do 
30— Any  Eight  do 


do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 


do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 

do 


rY  - 

i'S  I? 

ill 

>^,§’^$14 

$13 


31-Vols.  XVI  to  XXIV 
33— Stump  Speech— Steel  Plate  Colored $10 

33—  The  County  ISlection  do  do . $10 

34r— Halt  in  the’  Woods  do  do .  $10 

3.’»— Morton’.sbest  No.  5  Gold  Pen,  Silver  Case$4 

36—  Case  of  Drawing  Instruments .  $8 

37—  Lady’s  Rosewood  Writing  Desk . ,?12 

38—  Gentleman’s  do  do  do . $14 

39—  Best  Family  Clotlies-'VVringer . .  $10 

30—  Doty’s  YV'asliing  Machine . $12 

31—  Tea  Set  (Best  Silver  Plated) .  $30 

,33— Sewing  Machine,  (YVheeler  &  YVilson).,$55 
.’13- Sewing  Machine  (Wilcox  &  Gibbs) . $53 

34—  Sewing  Machine  for  Tailor  YVork . $60 

3,'>— Melodeon  (Best  Four  Octave) . $67 

36—  Melodeon  (Best  Five  Octave)  . $412 

37—  Piano,  7-Octave  (Stein way  &  Sons) _ $600 

38—  Barometer  (Woodruff’s  Itlercnrial) . $12 

39—  Barometer  (YVoodrnft's  Mercurial) . $18 

40—  The  Aquarius,  or  Water  Thrower  ...  $11 

41—  Buckeye  Mowing  Machine  No.  2 . $125 

43— Allen's  Patent  Cylinder  Plow' . $20 


.:°3 

'<t)  o 


S3 


3.5 
85 

100 

92 

65 

35 

33 

40 

338 

60 

65 

20 

26 

32 

38 

44 

50 

57 

64 
72 
60 
60 
60 
32 

4.5 

65 
70 

58 
65 

240 

270 

270 

290 

300 

450 

1500 

70 

95 

6.5 
480 
100 


^i^^No  chargeis  made  for  packing  or  boxing  any  of  the 
articles  in  this  Premium  List.  The  Premiums,  1,2,  3,  7,  8, 
and  13  to  26,  are  delivered  to  any  part  of  the  United 
Stales  and  Territories,  free  of  ail  charges.  The  other 
articles  cost  the  recipient  only  the  freight  after  leaving 
the  manufactory  of  each.  Every  article  offered  is 

new  and  of  the  very  best  manufacture. 

*  Preniiuni  1. — Good  Books.— Any  person  sending  a 
club  of  23  or  more  subscribers,  may  select  Books  from  the  List 
of  our  publications  accompanying  this  month's  paper, 
to  the  amount  of  10  cents  for  each  subscriber  sent  at 
$1:  or  to  the  amount  of  30  cents  for  each  name  sent 
at  the  (ten)  c)ub  price  of  $1.20  each;  or  to  the  amount  of  60 
cents  for  each  name  at  $1  50.  This  oiler  extends  only  to  clubs 
of  25  or  more  names.  The  Books  will  he  sent  by  mail  or 
express,  joi’epaid  Sy  IIS.— This  Is  a  good  opportunity  for  the 
farmers  of  a  neighborhood  to  unite  their  efforts  and  get  up 
ail  Agricultural  Library  for  general  use.  Several  Farmers' 
Clubs  have  done  so. 

For  Description  of  the  other  Pre¬ 
miums,  .see  Oclober  number,  and  especially  a  large, 
full  Descriptive  Sheet,  which  will  be  forwarded  free  to 
any  one  desiring  to  canvass  for  a  premium. 

Tlii'ee  Special  l*i*eiiainm8. 

We  did  not  intend  to  make  any  addilions  lo  our  annual 
list  of  premiums  for  1866,  but  here  comes  a  generous  offer 
which  we  cannot  refuse.  .Messrs.  A.  P.  Boyer  &  Co., 
of  Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Penn.,  write  us  tliat  “they  so 
highly  esteem  the  American  Agriculturist  they  want  to 
do  something  to  increase  its  circulation  among  farmers.’’ 
They  offer  three  separate  premiums  at  their  ow  n  expense, 
viz:  First.  A  pair  of  their  first  choice  Premium 
Chester  White  Pigs  (value  $50),  carefully  boxed  witli 
trough  and  feed,  and  shipped  free  of  cliarge.  The  pigs 
will  not  be  akin,  and  they  came  from  stocks  tliat  have 
taken  State  and  United  States  Premiums. — Second. 
One  Pig,  either  Boar  or  Sow,  of  the  same  stock,  and 
shipped  as  above;  (Value  $25.) — Third.  A  pair  of 
splendid  pure  White  Guinea  Fowls  (value  $10),  recom¬ 
mended  as  good  layers,  and  easily  raised.  Mr.  Boyer  says, 


ne4r 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[DECEMBElt, 


“We  have  had  them  to  lay  nearly  all  the  time  regularly.” 
The  above  premiums  will  be  given  as  follows:  The 
Pair  of  Pigs  to  the  first  applicant  sending  80  subscribers 
at  $1.50  each. — The  single  pig  to  the  first  applicant  send¬ 
ing  40  subscribers  at  $1.50  each. — The  Guinea  Fowls  to 
the  first  applicant  sending  18  subscribers  at  $1.50  each. 
In  this  special  case,  as  there  is  only  one  of  each  premium, 
we  are  obliged  to  limit  the  offer  to  the  Jirst  applicant  pre¬ 
senting  the  subscribers  and  money. 

Specimen  Number.s  of  the  Agriculturist,  Cards, 
and  Showbills,  as  may  be  needed,  will  be  supplied  to 
Canvassers.  These  should  be  used  carefully  and  eco¬ 
nomically,  as  each  copy  of  the  paper  is  costly,  besides 
the  postage  (2c.),  which  must  be  pre-paid  here.  A  large 
neat  Showbill  will  be  forwarded  to  any  one  who  can  use 
or  post  it  up  advantageously. 

CliUBS  can  at  any  time  be  increased,  by  remitting 
for  each  addition  the  price  paid  by  the  original  members, 
if  the  subscriptions  all  d.ate  at  the  same  starting  point. 
The  back  numbers  will  of  course  be  sent  to  added  names. 

Important  New  Arrangement— A  Valua¬ 
ble  Addition  to  the  American  Agri¬ 
culturist— The  Genesee  Farmer. 

It  is  the  constant  aim  of  the  publishers  of  this  journal 
to  secure  the  best  editorial  aid  in  the  country,  withholding 
ho  expense  that  will  increase  the  value  of  its  columns. 
Although  one  editor  could  easily  fill  each  successive 
number  with  excellent  reading  matter,  yet  the  policy  pur¬ 
sued  is  to  have  several  competent,  practical  men  engag¬ 
ed  in  furnishing  information  gathered  from  their  own 
knowledge  and  experience,  and  in  examining,  pruning 
and  condensing  into  the  reading  columns  the  best  ma¬ 
terials  collected  from  other  sources.  These  columns  thus 
contain  the  result  of  a  large  amount  of  work.  Not  un- 
frequently  a  few  lines  give  what  has  cost  much  labor  and 
thought — the  gist  of  what  otherwise  might  fill  a  page. 
On  the  other  hand,  many  hours  of  investigation  often 
cause  the  rejection  of  matter,  which  without  this  care 
might  have  been  inserted.  Indeed  the  Agriculturist  is 
perhaps  as  valuable  and  as  much  distinguished  for  what 
it  leaves  out,  as  for  what  it  prints. 

The  editorial  force  connected  with  the  Agriculturist 
is  a  very  large  one,  consisting  of  gentlemen  of  widely 
recognized  scientific  and  practical  ability,  and  sterling 
common  sense.  They  have  been  repeatedly  named 
in  our  columns,  and  with  them  and  their  labors  we 
have  been  more  than  satisfied.  That  a  discerning  public 
has  appreciated  our  efforts,  and  theirs,  is  shown  by  the 
circulation  of  100,000  copies  of  the  American  Agricultur¬ 
ist.  Nevertheless,  we  are  ever  ready  to  improve,  to  en¬ 
large  our  facilities,  to  increase  our  force,  whenever  and 
wherever  we  can  do  so  to  the  advantage  of  our  readers. 

We  have  for  years  pa.st  admired  the  character  of  the 
“  Genesee  Farmer,”  edited  and  published  by  Joseph 
Harris,  inciuding  the  editor’s  “  Walks  and  Talks  on  the 
Farm,”  for  Mr.  Harris  not  only  wields  the  pen  of  a 
reaily  writer,  but  liolds  the  plow  and  drives  and  thrives, 
on  his  30C-acre  farm,  six  miles  west  of  Rochester;  and  we 
liave  long  sought  to  secure  sometliing  of  the  same  prac¬ 
tical,  excellent  characier  for  these  columns,  and  for  the 
benefit  of  our  half  a  million  readers.  Well,  it  is  done. 
We  are  now  to  have  Mr.  IIarri.s  himself  as  an  associate 
editor,  and  our  readers  will  enjoy  many  a  “Walk  and 
Talk”  with  him  in  the  future,  for  he  will  remain  upon 
the  farm,  and  being  released  from  the  severe  labors  of  a 
publisher,  he  will  be  able  to  do  even  more  effeclive 
service  for  the  public,  through  the  Agricutturist,  than  he 
lias  hitherto  had  time  to  accomplish  in  the  Genesee  Farmer. 

Hearing  Mr.  Harris  express  a  desire  to  find  someone 
competent  to  relieve  him  of  all  publishing  work,  and 
thus  leave  him  more  time  for  his  farm,  and  for  galhering 
information,  and  preparing  it  for  the  public,  w  e  made  him 
a  liberal  ofiur  for  the  entire  establishment  of  the  Genesee 
Former,  and  for  his  ■  editorial  labors  upon  [\\e  Agricul¬ 
turist.  Willing  to  enter  upon  a  still  wider  field,  and  yet 
be  able  to  provide  well  for  Ids  old  patrons,  he  accepted  our 
proposition  in  full,  and  the  Genesee  Farmer  will  now  be 
united  with  the  Agriculturist,  which  wall  thus  contain 
the  chief  excellence  of  both  journals. 

We  doubt  not  that  all  Jlr.  Harris’  readers  will  gladly 
accompany  him  to  his  new  field  of  labor,  where  in  addi¬ 
tion  to  enjoying  his  writings  much  as  heretofore,  they 
will  also  meet  several  other  “  good  men  and  true,”  who 
will  spare  no  effort  to  interest  and  to  Insgruct  them. 

Mr.  Harris  has  provided  (o  have  the  Agriculturist  sent 
to  such  of  his  subscribers  as  have  paid  in  advance,  for 
the  full  term  paid  for,  without  any  extra  charge  to 
them  ;  and  we  will  cheerfully  welcome  to  the  great 
Agriculturist  Family,  all  the  readers  of  the  Farmer.  As 


our  paper  is  twice  the  size  of  the  Farmer,  and  more  ex¬ 
pensively  prepared  and  illustrated,  the  terms  are  neces- 
.sarily  a  trifle  higher,  though  still  kept  very  low,  owing 
to  the  large  circulation. 

Tke  Kural  Annual,  a  valuable  work  issued  for  ten 
years  past  in  connection  with  the  Genesee  Fanner,  will 
hereafter  be  publi.shed  at  the  Agriculturist  office.  We 
have  the  stereotype  plates  of  the  Farmer,  and  of  the 
Annual,  together  with  a  supply  of  the  past  volumes  of 
each,  the  former  bound  and  unbound,  which  will  be 
furnished  at  the  usual  rales. 


ORANGE  JUDD  &  CO. 


Containing  a  great  variety  of  Items,  including  many 
good  Hints  and  Suggestions  which  we  throw  into  small 
type  and  condensed  form,  for  want  of  space  elsewhere. 


Yes  !— To  several  Inquirers.  Clubs  of  sub¬ 
scribers  may  be  increased  at  the  same  rates — or  better. 
Thus,  for  example,  any  one  sending  10  subscribers  for 
$12,  may  afterward  add  10  names  more  for  $8,  that  is,  20 
subscribers  for  $20.  and  so  of  other  club  terms.  Members 
of  the  same  club  may  receive  the  paper  at  different  Post- 
Offices  and  in  different  Towns.  In  Premium  clubs  are 
included  all  the  names  sent  by  the  same  person  at  dif¬ 
ferent  times,  for  the  same  volume  of  the  paper,  if  each  list 
of  names  is  marked  “for  premium,”  when  sent  in. 

Keceipts  for  Ssitoscriptiions  Wot 
Ctiven. — It  would  be  an  immense  work  to  send  receipts 
for  a  hundred  thousand  subscribers.  The  paper  is  only 
sent  so  long  as  subscribed  for,  and  its  receipt  is  an  ac¬ 
knowledgment  that  it  is  paid  for.  Those  subscribing  at 
the  office  desk,  will  receive  receipts  when  desired.  Any 
one  sending  a  siibscriplion  by  in'ail,  if  particularly  desir¬ 
ing  it,  can  have  a  receipt  returned,  by  enclosing  a  ready 
directed  post-paid  envelope,  to  forward  the  receipt  in.  A 
three-cent  letter  stamp  is  required  on  such  envelopes. 

A  Hint  to  Clerg'ymeii. — In  three  succes¬ 
sive  Mondays  in  October,  a  pastor  of  a  church  in  a  small 
town  on  Staten  Island,  made  up  a  full  club  for  our 
Tenth  Premium,  and  'received  as  his  reward  the  six¬ 
teen  large  volumes  of  the  Cyclopedia — an  invaluable 
addition  to  his  library.  In  about  the  same  lime  a  Ger¬ 
man  Pastor  of  a  church' near  Buffalr,,  N.  Y..  made  up  a 
full  list  for  Premium  36,  and  received  a  five-octave  Melo- 
deon.  So,  also,  another  clergyman  in  Oswego  Co., 
N.  Y„  completed  lists  for  both  of  the  above  premiums, 
and  received  both  Cyclopedia  and  Melodeon.  Other 
Ministers  in  different  parts  of  the  country  are  rapidly 
forwarding  subscribers  for  different  premiums.  A'V'e 
suppose  in  each  of  these  cases  the  members  of  their 
churches  willingly  aid  in  the  work,  not  only  for  the  ben¬ 
efit  they  themselves  will  derive  from  the  reading  of  the 
Agriculturist,\mt  also  to  help  their  Pastors  in  securing 
articles  they  need  and  desire,  or  to  obtain  instruments 
for  their  Churches,  Sabbath  Schools,  or  Families.  A 
multitude  of  other  clergymen  may  do  the  same  thing  suc¬ 
cessfully.  It  is  an  easy  w.ay  to  secure  desired  articles, 
and  is  useful  to  all  parties  concerned.  Young  Men  and 
Boys  have  already  received  many  different  articles  from 
our  premium  list,  including  quite  a  number  of  fine  Gold 
Pens,  which  will  last  a  long  time  if  no  accident  happens 
to  them.  The  securing  of  the  few  subscribers  necessary 
to  obtain  these  prizes,  is  an  easy  work. 

A  Talk  Akoiit  tlie  “  ISasket.” — 
To  many  the  “basket”  columns  are  tlie  most  interesting 
part  of  the  paper.  As  we  look  back  through  tlie  file  for 
the  year,  we  feel  no  little  satisfaction  at  contemplating 
the  great  number  of  concise  bits  of  information  tliey 
contain,  upon  a  w'ide  range  of  topics,  and  we  feel  tliat  a 
word  of  thanks  is  due  to  those  who  liavc  contributed 
items,  as  well  as  to  the  larger  class,  whose  questions 
have  called  fortli  items.  But  what  shall  we  say  to  tlie 
writers  of  a  large  number  of  unanswered  basket  let¬ 
ters?  If  we  tliaiik  tliein,  too,  it  perhaps  will  not  satisfy 
them.  We  sometimes  wish  tlie  paper  was  al!  “  basket,” 
and  we  could  tlien  please  everybody.  As  the  space  is 
limited,  some  are  necessarily  left  out  and  they  must  take 
it  good  naturedly.  Tliere  are  some  liints  we  would  ask 
our  correspondents  to  observe  :  If  business  mailers,  and 
communications  intended  for  tlie  editors  are  in  the  same 
letter,  put  them  on  separate  pieces  of  paper,  or  on  differ¬ 
ent  halves  of  tlie  same  slicet,  so  that  tliey  can  be  torn 
apart.  All  letters  wholly  or  in  part  on  business,  go  first 
to  the  clerks’  desk,  and  it  is  often  tlie  case  that  before 
tliey  go  tlirongli  the  liands  of  subscription  clerks,  prem¬ 


ium  clerks,  etc.,  the  other  natter  gets  to  the  editors 
too  late  to  be  of  use.  Recollect  that  the  paper  is  made 
up  about  the  lOtli  of  the  previous  month,  and  a  letter 
written  on  tlie  15lli  of  December  can  not  be  answered 
“  without  fail  ”  in  tlie  January  number.  Do  not  crowd 
too  many  questions  or  items  on  quite  different  subjects, 
into  one  letler.  We  liave  several  different  editorial  de¬ 
partments,  and  if  you  write  about  fruits,  flowers,  pigs, 
plows,  poultry  and  pickles,  all  on  one  sheet,  please 
separate  the  subjects  by  a  space,  so  that  the  manu¬ 
script  may  be  divided  up.  If  your  letier  is  not  ans¬ 
wered  by  name,  do  not  tliink  it  is  unnoticed.  Articles 
are  frequently  wrilten  to  meet  a  number  of  different  in¬ 
quirers  in  the  same  direction,  and  answers  are  often 
given  in  the  “  Notes  and  Suggestions  for  the  month,”  to 
sucli  questions  as  may  be  properly  replied  to  there.  Some 
questions  are  from ,  their  very  nature  unanswerable. 
Others,  such  as  those  about  advertising  “doctors,”  and 
advertised  medicines,  we  refrain  from  replying  to,  upon 
principles  we  have  already  set  forlh.  Another  class  of 
queries,  as  to  the  best  place  to  get  nursery  slock,  seeds, 
etc.,  are  already  answered  in  the  advertising  columns. 
Tlien,  again,  many  letters  are  upon  matters  quite  obscure, 
upon  topics  not  yet  well  understood,  and  such  are  held 
for  consideration.  We  have  said  that  our  pile  of  unan¬ 
swered  letters  was  large.  It  is  not  so  in  comparison 
witli  the  wliole  number  received,  and  we  are  glad  to  find 
that  the  year  sliows  us  so  nearly  square  with  our  corres¬ 
pondents.  We  hope  that  our  friends  will  continue  their 
favors,  and  we  shall  try  to  disappoint  as  few  as  possible. 

P’rice  of  Printing-  Paper.— The  drouth 
now  liappily  over,  kept  many  mills  idle  so  long,  that  tl;e 
reduction  in  tlie  stock  of  paper  iias  enabled  the  manufac¬ 
turers  to  obtain  any  price  tliey  clioose  to  ask — 27  to  80 
cents  per  pound  for  paper  tliey  gladly  furnished  at  10'5;12 
cents  formerly,  and  only  last  July  at  18®!9  cents.  This 
makes  a  fearful  difference  on  the  nine  tons  we  use  in 
tliis  single  number.  We  must  stand  it  now,  Messrs.  .Man¬ 
ufacturers,  but  our  turn  will  come  soon— see  if  it  don’t. 

A  €Sift  ©fteii  ISepeatetl. — Mauy  this 
month  send  some  token  of  regard  to  a  son,  brother,  rela¬ 
tive,  friend,  or  neiglibor.  Will  not  tlie  25th  'Volume  of  tlie 
Agriculturist  often  be  a  most  acceptable  Gift?  Wliile 
appreciated  at  first,  each  successive  number,  as  it  comes 
through  the  year,  will  remind  the  recipient  of  tlie  giver, 
and  we  are  sure  the  volume  will  contain  many  things  that 
will  be  pleasing  as  well  as  useful.  In  all  such  cases, 
when  desired,  vve  will  enclose  in  tlie  first  number  for¬ 
warded,  a  subscription  Receipt,  noting  on  it  the  name  of 
the  one  wlio  paid  it,  as  'well  as  the  name  of  the  one  to 
receive  llie  paper  for  the  year. 

Volaiines — Cover.s  foi*  Hind- 
iiig. — As  soon  as  this  number  is  mailed,  we  sliall  bind 
up  a  supply  of  copies  of  this  volume  (24tli),  ready'for 
those  desiring  them.  They  are  bound  in  neat  black  clotli 
covers,  witli  gilt  title,  complete  index,  elc.,  all  in  our  re¬ 
gular  uniform  style.  Price  per  volume  $2,  or  $2.60  if  to 
be  sent  by  mail.  Any  of  tlie  previous  eiglit  volumes  (16 
to  23)  furnislied  at  the  same  rate.  The  volumes  are  sup¬ 
plied  unbound  for  $1  50.  and  24  cents  extra  if  to  be  sent 
by  mail.  Any  single  numbers,  from  No.  120  to  No.  227 
(Vols.  16  to  24,  inclusive)  supplied  at  15  cents  each.  We 
print  clean,  new  numbers,  as  needed,  from  our  stereotype 
plates  of  these  volumes.— Volumes  sent  Ip  the  office  are 
bound  in  our  regular  style  for  75  cents  eacli,  and  missing 
numbers  supplied  at  12  cents eacli.—AVe  have  the  regular 
form  of  ready-made  Binding  Covers  for  the  above  vol¬ 
umes,  into  wliich  any  book-binder  can  easily  insert  the 
numbers,  and  bind  them  at  small  cost.  Price  of  covers 
45  cents  each.  They  can  not  be  sent  by  mail. 


Ifloi-e  Akont  tlie  C^laiidei'w. — We  pre¬ 
sume  tiie  Government  has  disposed  of  the  last  of  tlie 
War  Department's  glandered  liorses,  as  we  'see  no  sales 
adverlised.  It  becomes  now  somebody’s  duly,  and  we 
propose  it  to  Secretary  Stanton  as  his,  to  ascertain  by 
wliose  -wicked,  blundering  work  this  great,  immeasurable 
calamity  lias  befallen  the  country.  The  folio-wing  com¬ 
munication  gives  a  sligiit  idea  of  what  damage  may 
liave  been,  and  doubtless  in  many  cases  has  been 
done,  and  will  be  done  by  this  disease  wherever  these 
glandered  liorses  go  ; 

Davenport,  Iowa,  October,  1865. 

“  Before  I  saw  in  the  Agriculturist  Hie  picture  and  ar¬ 
ticle  aliout  glanders,  I  had  bouglit  of  the  United  States, 
at  Cliicago,  sixteen  mules.  They  were  warranted 
against  glanders  and  farcy,  if  discovered  before  taken 
from  the -ground,  but  no  opportunity  was  given  for  ex- 
aminalion  until  Ihe  mules  were  paid  for.  Mine  had  no 
sign  of  glanders,  but  at  tlie  close  of  the  sales  two  were 
offered  for  sale,  tliat  had  it.  I  asked  if  they  had  been  in 
contact  with  ihe  otliers,  and  was  told  they  liad  not.  I 


18C5.] 


/  AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


365 


brought  mine  to  this  place,  examined  them  carefully, 
saw  no  sign  of  disease,  and  put  all  but  two  in  a  pasture 
w  ith  a  mare  and  coit.  I  set  two  to  work,  and  in  six  days 
the  glanders  broke  out  on  them  in  its  worst  form.  This 
was  in  ten  days  after  I  bought  them.  If  an  individual 
were  to  do  sucli  an  act  as  this,  he  would  be  liable  to  in¬ 
dictment  and  punishment.  Can  the  government  be  tol¬ 
erated  in  selling  .animals  with  a  contagious  and  incurable 
disease,  to  its  own  people,  and  sowing  death  and  de¬ 
struction  to  animals  of  private  people  all  over  the  land. 
In  England,  the  whole  administration  is  engaged  in  find¬ 
ing  preventives  and  remedies  for  the  cattle  plague.  Will 
the  people  of  this  country  allow  their  government  to  do 
just  the  reverse,  and  put  the  price  of  fraud  in  the  public 
treasury?  In  my  case,  I  have  ten  thousand  dollars 
worth  of  thorough  bred  and  trotting  horses,  which  I  may 
lose  by  the  contagion  brought  to  them  through  govern¬ 
ment  perfidy.  Myself  and  my  laborers  are  liable  to  con¬ 
tract  this  disease  from  the  care  and  handling  of  these 
glandered  mules.  Hundreds  less;  able,  f  fear,  to  bear 
the  loss  than  I  am,  have  been  cheated  in  the  same  way. 

Your  ob’t  serv’t,  Jas.  Grant. 

'  Animal  Traps  of  All  Kinds. — De¬ 
scriptions  of  rat  traps,  squirrel  traps  ;  traps  for  musk¬ 
rats,  minks,  moles,  martins,  gophers,  foxes,  wolves, 
any  and  all  animals  which  go  under  the  denomination 
of  vermin,  are  wanted.  We  have  constant  inquiries  for 

them,  especially  gopher,  mole  and  muskrat  traps,  and 
would  gladly  respond  to  them,  by  presenting  in  our  col¬ 
umns  quite  an  array  of  traps  of  various  kinds.  Some  time 
since,  two  friends  of  the  Agriculturist  at  the  West,  sent 
us  two  different  gopher  traps,  and  both  good.  The 
drawings  were  given  over  to  the  draughtsman  and  en¬ 
graver,  but  the  manuscript  accompanying  each  has  dis¬ 
appeared — neither  do  we  remember  the  names  of  the 
writers.  If  they  will  re-write  their  ietters,  we  can  teli 
their  story,  and  show  our  readers  their  traps. 

N.  Y.  Colleg-e  of  Veterinary  Siiir= 
geons. — The  opening  exercises  of  this  institution  were 
held  at  the  College,  No.  179  4th  Avenue,  on  the  6th  of 
November.  The  school  opens  with  an  encouraging 
number  of  students,  and  the  public  exercises  on  the  oc¬ 
casion  were  attended  by  many  of  the  prominent  Physi¬ 
cians,  Professors  in  the  Medical  Colleges,  and  the  elite 
of  New  York,  both  gentlemen  and  ladies.  An  address 
was  delivered  by-Prof.  Copeman,  from  which  we  make 
a  brief  extract,  after  which  the  guests  with  the  officers, 
the  faculty  and  founders  of  the  institution,  partook  of  a 
collation,  enlivened  by  congratulatory  speeches  and  toasts 
for  the  success  of  the  college,  and  to  the  honor  of  its 
founders,  first  among  whom  is  Prof.  John  Busteed,  M. 
D.,  the  President  of  the  college. 

EXTRACT  FROM  THE  ADDRESS  OF  PROF.  COPEMAN. 

“The  science  of  veterinary  medicine,  as  it  is  now  begin¬ 
ning  to  be  understood,  is  a  science  that  has  a  far  wider 
application  and  a  far  nobler  mission  than  the  limited  duty 
of  leading  the  sick  animal  back  to  health.  In  the  present 
day,  more  than  at  any  previous  period  in  the  history  of 
our  country,  domestic  animals  are  brought  together  in 
immense  numbers,  under  a  variety  of  conditions  power¬ 
fully  and  variously  affecting  their  health.  Hundreds  of 
cattle  and  thousands  of  hogs  are  closely  congregated  at 
distilleries.  Cows  may  be  counted  by  the  hundred  in 
thousands  of  dairies.  Armies  of  horses  encamp  and  move 
about  in  enormous  masses.  The  great  problem  of  vete¬ 
rinary  medicine  is  not  so  much  how  to  cure  a  particular 
case  of  pneumonia  or  of  fever,  but  how  to  prevent  the 
outbreak  of  pestilence,  to  discover  and  to  avert  all  the 
causes  of  epizootic  and  enzootic  disease  ;  in  a  word,  how¬ 
to  preserve  the  health  of  domestic  animals  and  thereby 
increase  the  wealth  of  the  nation.  Regarded  in  this  light, 
the  veterinary  profession  acquires  an  importance  which 
it  has  never  yet  challenged  in  America.  There  never  was 
a  period  in  the  history  of  our  country  which  so  much  re- 
qiured  the  establishment  of  veterinary  schools  as  the 
present.  Threatened  from  abroad  with  two  diseases,  the 
cholera,  which  is  already  said  to  be  on  our  shores  ,  and 
the  rinderpest  or  cattle  plague  of  Russia,  a  low  form  of 
typhus,  which  is  now  making  such  sad  havoc  among 
cattle  on  the  European  continent,  and  the  milch  cows  of 
England,  I  regret  to  announce  the  reappearance  amongst 
horses  at  Troy,  in  this  State,  and  its  rapid  extension  along 
the  Erie,  Chenango  and  Black  River  canals,  of  a  highly 
contagious  disease,  commonly  known  as  “  black  tongue.” 
As  one  of  the  consequences  of  the  war,  we  have  also  to 
contend  against  that  most  loathsome  and  incurable  dis¬ 
ease,  glanders,  the  seeds  of  which  have  been  sown  broad¬ 
cast,  by  the  public  sale  of  diseased  army  horses,  purely, 

then,  there  never  was  a  time  when  the  aid  of  judicious 
advice  of  well  educated  veterinarians  was  more  needed. 
Sanitary  commissioners  and  boards  of  health  must  ere 
long  be  organized  or  appointed  by  competent  authority  in 
every  State,  and  by  the  general  government  to  protect  us 
from  the  pending  epidemics  and  epizooties.  And  this 
gives  vise  to  the  most  importiint  cjueslion,  of  whoqi  or 


what  class  of  persons  should  the  board  of  health  be  com¬ 
posed.  I  answer  w  ithout  hesitation,  of  such  professional 
gentlemen  as  I  have  the  honor  of  being  surrounded  by, 
of  our  first  physicians,  of  the  best  veterinarians  in  the 
country,  of  which  there  are,  it  is  to  be  regretted,  but  very 
few  to  be  found,  owing,  doubtless  to  our  want  of  vete¬ 
rinary  schools  ;  the  mayor  and  other  head  executive  of¬ 
ficer  of  each  city  or  town,  and  the  police  ;  a  board  com¬ 
posed  of  such  material  would  not  only  be  one  of  the 
surest,  but  the  best  means  of  protecting  the  public  health, 
and  tlie  public  funds.  I  am  not  an  alarmist,  on  the  con¬ 
trary,  while  I  recommend,  care  and  prudence,  I  would 
guard  against  excitement  and  fear.” 

Tlte  of  Prof.  Tintlley. — Just  as 

we  go  to  press,  the  announcement  reaches  us  from  Eng¬ 
land,  of  the  death  of  Roct.  John  Lindley,  at  the  age  of 
66.  He  had  a  wide  i^jimtation  as  a  botanist  and  horticul¬ 
turist,  and  left  numerous  works  to  commemorate  his 
talent  and  industry.  His  Theory  of  Horticulture  was 
one  of  the  earliest  attempts  to  explain  the  opera¬ 
tions  of  horticulture  according  to  the  teachings  of  vege¬ 
table  physiology,  and  is  still  a  valuable  work.  Roct. 
Lindley  was  the  long  time  horticultural  editor  of  the 
London  Gardener’s  Chronicle,  though  ill  health  had  for 
some  years  past  prevented  him 'from  active  labor.  The 
last  article  in  that  paper  which  we  recognized  as  his, 
was  a  lengthly  notice  of  the  life  of  Sir  William  Hooker. 

TJte  Olilo  Pomolog'ical  Society. — 

The  loth  annual  meeting  will  be  held  at  Cincinnati  on 
Wednesday,  Rec.  6.  They  invite  specimens,  and  the 
attendance  of  all  amateur  aiKl  professional  fruit  growers. 

Fruit  ill  Minnesota. — Col.  D.  A.  Robert¬ 
son,  of  Saint  Paul,  is  endeavoring  to  collect  the  fruit 
statistics  of  Minnesota.  He  desires  cultivators  to  inform 
him  when  their  trees  were  planted,  where  from,  and 
which  have  done  well,  together  with  particulars  of  soil, 
aspect,  and  treatment.  When  names  are  lost,  he  will 
identify  specimens  if  sent  by  mail.  As  the  object  is  to 
collect  information  to  be  published  for  the  benefit  of  all, 
fruit  growers  in  Minnesota  are  requested  to  aid. 

Catalogues,  etc.,  SSeceived. — Hovey 
&  Co.,  Boston,  catalogue  of  Autumn  Bulbs,  illustrated. 

.  Frost  &  Co’s  Rochester,  autumnal  catalogue  of 

Fruit  and  Ornamental  Trees..  .Bridgeman's,  SiS  Broad¬ 
way,  N.  Y.,  catalogue  of  Bulbous  and  Tuberous  Roots, 

. E.  Y.  Teas,  Richmond,  Ind.,  Trade  catalogue . 

G.  E.  Meissner,  Richmond,  Staten  Lsland,  N.  Y.,  price 

list  of  Grape  Vines . Adolphus  Bornemann,  Rayton, 

Ohio,  descriptive  catalogue  of  Bulbous  Flower  Roots. 

. Vilmorin,  Andrieux  &  Co.,  Paris,  catalogues  of 

Bulbs  and  Seeds  for  fall  sowing . F.  K.  Phoenix’s, 

Bloomington,  Ill.,  Re.scriptive  Nursery  List  . R.  M. 

Rewey-,  Rochester,  N.  Y.,  catalogue  of  colored  plates  of 
Fruits,  Flowers,  etc  .  ...Waite,  Burnell  &  Co.,  Lon¬ 
don.  Eng.,  catalogue  of  Seeds. 

Mottier  on  Wine  Malcing. — lu  October 
we  gave  Mr.  Mottler’s  process  for  wine  making,  but 
omitted  to  state,  as  w  e  should  have  done,  that  the  article 
originally  appeared  in  the  Horticulturist  in  1862.  We  do 
not  so  much  regret  this,  as  it  gives  an  opportunity  to  say 
that  wo  are  glad  to  learn,  that  the  Horticulturi.st  has  met 
with  a  success  this  year  that  is  very  satisfactory  to  its 
proprietors,  who  spare  no  pains  to  make  it  acceptable. 


Yinelnntl. — We  have  been  there — so  several 
papers  say,  and  without  due  authority  they  have  pro¬ 
mised  a  report  from  us.  We  did  not  propose  to  say 
much  .about  it,  unless  we  found  something  specially 
noteworthy.  Some  people  wilt  go  there  and  do  well. 
Some  will  stay  there  and  do  well.  Some  will  go  there 
and  come  away,  or  not  go  at  all,  and  do  better.  The  chief 
advantages  of  the  place  are,  not  in  cheap  land,  not  in  agri¬ 
cultural  and  market  facilities,  not  in  water  power,  but  in 
the  steady,  industrious,  intelligent  and  moral  po|tulalion 
which,  without  these  advantages,  has  been  draw-n  together 
there,  and  established  schools,  churches  and  good  laws. 


Preparing  Poultry  for  Market. — 

It  is  too  often  done  thus  :  The  birds  are  caught,  their 
necks  are  wrung  by  holding  them  by  the  head  and  swing¬ 
ing  them  around  once  or  twice  ,  they  are  then  thrown  on 
the  ground  to  “flop”  and  bruise  themselves  until  dead; 
then  are  plunged  into  hot  water  and  the  feathers  stripped 
off,  the  skin  being  often  torn,  the  fat  scalded  and  looking 
oily,  and  the  whole  bird  presenting  a  very  uninviting  ap¬ 
pearance.  They  are  sometimes  drawn  and  mangled  in 
the  operation ;  and  there  are  parties  who  give  them  a 
good  feeding  of  corn  just  before  killing,  so  as  to  sell  a 
little  corn  at  15  to  20  cents  per  pound.  They  are  not 
bled  ;  they  are  often  packed  warm  ;  they  come  to  the 
market  in  poor  condition,  and  sell  at  the  lowest  prices. 
The  foyvls  sbpqlcl  be  plump  ftjul  fat,  with  empty  crops. 


Catch  them  quietly  ;  hold  a  bird  by  both  wings  and  lie 
them  ;  then  tie  the  legs  together  and  hang  them  one 
after  another  on  a  pole.  As  .soon  as  hung  up  in  this  way 
take  a  sharp  knife  and  cut  the  heads  off,  cutting  close  to 
the  head,  and  let  them  hang  until  all  the  blood  is  out  of 
them.  While  still  wartff  pluck  them  dry,  removing  all 
the -feathers,  a  few  at  a  time,  pulling  with  a  slight  jerk 
Ihe  way  the  feathers  lie.  Thus  Ihe  skin  will  not  be  torn 
The  birds  should  now  be  hung  till  cold,  anti  then  be 
wiped  off  with  a  damp  cloth  and  packed  In  tight  boxes, 
w  ith  clean  bright  straw  next  the  box  all  round.  If  the 
lot  is  extra  fine,  pull  the  skin  back,  cut  off  an  inch  of  the 
neck,  tie  the  skin  over  it,  trim  off  the  edges  and  wash  off 
the  blood.  If  the  poultry  is  not  to  be  packed,  and  shipped 
to  market  by  rail  or  otherwise,  they  may  be  dipped  in 
scalding  water  for  not  over  5  seconds.  This  shrinks 
llie  skin  a  little,  and  makes  them  look  plumper  ;  it  melts 
the  fat  on  the  surface  and  gives  the  birds  a  clean,  yellow 
look,  which  is  attractive.  Fowls  thus  plumped,  will  not 
keep  nor  bear  packing  so  well  as  those  plucked  dry. 

SLiongj  Siatisca-ijilion  ff.etters  are  not 

necessary  or  desirable.  Here  is  a  convenient  form  : 

Washington,  Johnson  Co.,  Iowa,  Dec.  1,  1865. 
Messrs.  Orange  Judd  /f  Co.,  New  York  City : 

Unclosed  are  Five  Dollars  for  the  American  Agricul¬ 
turist  for  four  suliscribers,  to  begin  January  Ist,  1866,  viz,' 
John  Doe,  Washington,  Johnson  Co.,  Iowa, 

Richard  Roe,  do.  do.  do. 

Peter  Smith,  Webster.  do.  do. 

S,  J.  Karl,  Freeport,  Sioux  Co.,  VVi.s.  (German), 
Yours,  respectfully,  John  Roe, 

Seal  tightly,  and  address  jilainly  to  Orange  Judd  cf  Co., 
41  Park  Row,  New  York  City.—het  all  matters  referring 
to  the  reading  columns  only,  such  as  information  given, 
notes,  queries,  etc.,  (which  are  always  welcomed,)  be  on 
a  separate  piece  of  paper,  marked  “  for  Editors,”  and 
containing  also  the  date,  name  and  residence  of  the  writer. 

Frotectiiig  Flaists. — O.  Moffet,  Wapello 
Co.,  Iowa:  Your  plan  for  protecting  young  plants  from 
insects  and  frost  by  means  of  wooden  boxes  or  frames  is 
not  new,  but  has  been  often  advised  in  the  Agriculturist. 
We  know  that  it  will  “succeed,”  for  w-e  have  tried  it  for 
several  years;  so  go  ahead  and  make  your  frames,  and 
you  will  find  them  very  handy  to  have  in  the  garden. 

More  Potatoes. — The  exhibition  of  potatoes 
at  our  office  has  for  the  past  month  attracted  much  at¬ 
tention.  Besides  those  exhibited  by  Mr.  Harrison  and 
noticed  on  page  375,  Mr.  E.  Williams  of  Montclair,  N.  J., 
shows  quite  as  many  sorts.  There  are  some  kinds  in  the 
coliection  of  each  not  contained  in  the  other,  and  the  two 
together  make  a  very  interesting  display. 

Songs  of  Seven. — In  the  collection  of 
chaste  and  beautiful  poems  by  Jean  Ingelow,  which  two 
or  three  years  ago  surprised  lovers  of  poetry,  and  caused 
us  to  recognize  a  new  star  in  the  small  constellation  of 
real  poets,  was  one  in  seven  parts,  called  “  Songs  of 
Seven.”  The  song  of  a  child  of  7  years,  of  a  girl  of  14, 
of  a  maiden  of  21  ;  of  four  times  seven,  a  mother ;  of 
five  times  seven,  a  widow;  of  six  times  seven,  and  of 
seven  times  seven.  This  poem  has  been  most  beauti¬ 
fully  illustrated  by  English  and  American  artists  and 
engravers,  andjirlnted  and  bound  in  the  most  sumptuous 
style  of  the  book-makers’  art,  at  the  University  Press, 
Cambi  idge,  and  published  by  Roberts  Brothers,  Boston, 
at  $5.00.  The  steel  portrait  of  the  author  is  alone  w-orth 
the  price.  The  volume  makes  one  of  the  most  tasteful 
and  beautiful  gifts  that  can  be  found.  [It  may  be  had  at 
the  Agriculturist  of&ce,  or  will  be  sentby  mail,  post-paid.] 


ISradlbiiry’s  <3old.cn  Censer,  is  a  most 
excellent  work.  Our  own  Sabbatii  School  have  “sung 
through  ”  most  of  Mr.  B.’s  “  Golden  Chain,”  and  “Golden 
Shower,”  and  the  “Golden  Censer”  is,  if  possible,  better 
than  either  of  its  predecessors,  judging  from  the  fifteen  or 
twenty  tunes  we  have  so  far  tried.  If  we  had  had  such 
books  when  a  boy,  we  should  have  been  a  much  better 
singer  now.  perhaps  a  greater  lover  of  children's  singing 
— through  this  could  hardly  be  possible. 


Fstey’s  Musical  Instriiments.— Seven¬ 
teen  years  ago  we  bought  one  of  Estey’s  large  melodeons, 
and  used  it  a  year,  when,  at  the  urgent  solicitation  of  a 
Church  Choir,  w-e  sold  it  to  them,  but  could  not  get  an¬ 
other.  Sundry  impropements  hav-e  since  been  made  in 
tone,  power,  and  structure,  and  we  judge  from  an  exam¬ 
ination  of  the  assortment  advertised  by  Mr.  Saxe,  the 
general  agent,  that  they  are  excellent  instruments. 

Xlie  Fence  Questions.-^There  have  not 
been  as  many  answers  received  to  the  questions  about 
fences  in  the  Agriculturist  for  November  (page  336),  as 
we  had  anticipated.  In  the  course  of  the  month  we  hope 
innny  will  respond.  The  subject  is  of  general  interest. 


366 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[December, 


Feeding-  Colts. — John  B.  Turner,  Cayuga 
Co.,  N.  Y.  Make  a  comfortable  shed  for  your  colt,  so 
that  he  can  go  out  and  in  at  pleasure,  and  give  him  a  part 
of  a  sheaf  of  oats  daily,  chopped  to  inch  bits.  Let  him 
have  access  to  good  straw,  and  give  one  or  two  fair  sized 
carrots  or  turnips  daily,  and  he  will  grow  finely  all  win¬ 
ter.  Give  him  salt,  and  all  the  water  he  will  drink. 

'I'ltmips  for  llor.ses. — “  T.  S.  I.,”  of  On¬ 
ondaga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  inquires  as  to  the  best  way  to  feed 
turnips  to  horses,  and  the  quantity  at  each  feeding. 
We  have  always  washed  them  clean  and  fed  them  w  hole. 
For  neat  cattle  and  sheep,  they  should  be  cut  or  mashed. 
Horses  can  bite  them  without  difficulty,  as  they  have 
incisor  teeth  in  both  jaws,  horned  stock  only  in  the 
lower  jaw.  About  four  quarts  daily  is  enough  for  one 
horse,  besides  grain  or  meal,  provided  he  is  worked 
most  of  the  time.  It  is  better  to  feed  turnips  and  carrots 
in  connection  with  other  food,  than  separately. 

or  Cl&jiinis  for  Ca.ftle. — 

L.  E.  Bower,  Onond.aga  Co.,  N.  Y.,  inquires  “  Which  is 
the  best,  chains,  ropes,  or  stanchions  for  cattle?"  We 
answer  by  asking  which  he  would  prefer,  a  rope  around 
his  own  neck  while  in  bed,  or  to  have  his  neck  confined 
between  two  balusters  in  the  bedstead?  When  cattle 
sleep  they  usually  turn  the  head  around  on  one  side. 
Ropes  or  chains  allow  them  more  liberty  to  move  about 
and  lick  their  sides.  Still,  tliere  is  no  disputing  the  fact 
that  cattle  do  well  in  stancliions,  and  that  this  is  the  most 
economical  way.  Next  to  stanchions,  neck  chains  are 
the  clieapest  fastening,  and  are  nearly  as  easy  to  the 
animal  asj  ropes.  For  our  own  use  we  certainly  prefer 
chains  somewhat  like  those  figured  on  page  12,  Vol.  XXI. 

Dtemedy  for  Slabberims'.— E.  L.  Bre- 
voort,  Elkhart  Co.,  Ind.,  writes  to  the  Agriculturist-. 
“  Please  give  me  a  remedy  for  slabbers  in  horses,  indu¬ 
ced  by  eating  white  clover,  which,  in  tins  region,  kills  out 
.all  other  kinds  of  pasture.”  Let  each  horse  have  four 
quarts  of  wheat  bran  twice  daily.  As  soon  as  the  white 
clover  appears,  plow  the  ground,  raise  two  or  three  crops 
of  grain,  and  seed  with  Timothy  or  Kentucky  blue 
grass,  and  Orchard  grass  seed.  Horses  never  slabber 
w'hen  fed  with  these  grasses. 

Cows  long  in  Stripping  are  a  uuisance. 
— J.  E.  Blake,  of  Putnam  Co.,  Ill.,  writes  :  “I  have  kept 
cows  and  milked  with  my  own  hands  for  over  30  years, 
and  now  confess  I  do  not  know  how  to  milk.  I  mean — 
how  to  prevent  cows  getting  into  the  habit  (for  I  believe 
it  is  one)  of  requiring  long  stripping,  even  while  rather 
fresh.  Is  it  best  to  milk  two  teats  clean  except  the  strip¬ 
ping,  ana  tlien  to  take  the  others  in  hand,  or  to  change 
teats  as  often  as  the  milk  does  not  come  freely  ?  Perhaps 
some  of  yoiir  readers  will  tell  me  through  tlie  Agricul- 
iurist.”  Many  of  our  readers  know  how  to  milk  ,  we 
hope  some  one  will  give  the  results  of  his  experience. 


All  Alderney  Cow. — “  P.  E.  L.,”  of  New 
Rochelle,  N.  Y.,  states  that  he  imported  an  Alderney 
cow  six  years  since.  From  March  1st,  1864,  to  March  1st, 
1865,  her  record  is  as  follows^  She  raised  lier  calf,  pro¬ 
duced  .351  lbs.  butter,  78  quarts  milk  sold,  and  447  quarts 
used  in  the  family.  There  was  no  extra  effort  made, 
her  only  food  during  the  grazing  season  was  grass,  and  in 
winter  half  a  bushel  of  coarse  bran  per  day,  'besides 
coarse  fodder.  No  roots  were  fed. 


’■file  Canlcer  Worm.>4. — In  the  August 
numberof  the  Agriculturist  we  offered  some  observations 
in  regard  to  the  canker  worm,  which  made  such  devasta¬ 
tion  in  New  England,  last  summer,  and  will  again  next. 
Great  efforts  liave  been  made  to  prevent  their  ascending 
the  trees,  and  many  persons  who  suppose  their  trees  to 
be  w/;ll  protected,  will  be  surprised  to  find  them  alive 
with  worms  as  soon  as  warm  weatlier  comes.  The 
wingless  moths  began  to  ascend  to  lay  their  eggs  long 
before  people  thouglit  they  would,  arnl  lliough  the 
trouglis  around  the  tree  trunks  were  filled  early,  yet  it 
was  not  early  enough.  We  fear  injury  will  come  to  the 
trees  from  the  iise  of  rosin-oil  ami  petroleum,  in  the 
trouglis.  Cobwebs  and  straws  lead  it  by  caiiillary  at¬ 
traction  over  the  edge,  and  running  down  upon  the  body 
of  the  tree  near  the  roots  tliere  is  danger  of  harm.  A 
patent  appliance,  consisting  of  a  sheet  of  mica  (isin¬ 
glass)  encircling  the  trunk  of  the  tree  at  a  distance  of 
one  inch,  and  suspended  by  a  band  of  cotton  clotli,  a 
few  inches  wide,  altogether  a  tent-like  affair,  has  been 
largely  employed.  We  are  sorry  to  inform  our  readers 
on  excellent  authority,  that  the  wingless  female  moths 
will  go  over  it — witli  some  difficulty  indeed,  but  never¬ 
theless,  in  some  cases  they  do  succeed.  Mr.  David  Ly¬ 
man,  of  Miildlesex  Co.,  Conn.,  has  watched  tliem  very 
closely,  and  seen  them  pass  over  this  tent  with  the  mica 
rim.  So  he  oiled  the  rim,  using  a  mixture  of  equal  parts 


Fig.  1. 


kerosene  and  castor  oil.  This  retains  the  odor  of  kero¬ 
sene  and  the  fluidity  of  castor  oil  for  a  long  time,  and  no 
insect  has  yet  been  seen  to  go  over. 

Should  one  succeed,  it  would  be  oiled 
somewhat,  and  as  the  least  oil  quickly 
spreads  over  its  whole  body,  it  would 
soon  die.  Tin  will  of  course  do 
just  as  well  as  mica,  and  may  be 
made  thus  :  Ascertain  the  diameter 
of  the  tree  (say  12  inches) ;  add  2 
inches  to  it  (14  inches)  ;  get  a  piece  of 
tin  three  times  as  long  (43  inches),  and  3  inches  wide;  have 
the  tinner  turn  a  fold  on  one  edge,  as  he  does  for  lapping 
two  sheets  together,  like 
fig.  1.  Take  a  piece  of  cot¬ 
ton  cloth  with  a  wide  hem 
on  one  edge,  through  which 
to  run  sHiord ;  then  slip  the 
other  edge  under  the  fold  in 
the  tin,  and  hammering  it 
down  ‘close,  tlie  cloth  will 
be  firmly  held.  By  passing 
this  around  the  tree,  fasten¬ 
ing  the  ends  of  tlie  tin  by  a 
rivet  or  two,  drawing  the 
cord  tightly  and  adjusting 
the  cloth,  and  sewing  a  few 
stitches  at  the  lap,  notiiing 
can  pass  through,  like  fig.  2. 
Then  after  smearing  the  tin 
with  Mr.  Lyman’s  castor  oil 
and  kerosene  mixture,  we 
believe  the  tree  will  be  perfectly  protected,  except  as 
the  oil  may  need  renewing  once  in  a  week,  perhaps. 
Mr.  Lyman  says  the  trunks  below  his  tent-protectors 
were  covered  with  eggs  the  first  week  in  November. 


Fig.  2. 


Very  Early  Eaiiilis.— A  few  days  previous 
to  yeaning  time,  confine  the  ewes  in  a  box  stall,  or 
apartment  where  they  will  be  protected  from  cold  and 
storms.  Feed  with  good  hay  and  corn  stalks,  and  let 
tliem  have  access  to  salt  and  water.  Grain  and  roots 
previous  to  parturition  tend  to  induce  garget.  As  soon 
as  lambs  appear  thrifty  and  strong,  and  take  all  the 
milk,  one  pound  of  roots  and  half  a  pound  of  meal  daily, 
for  each  ewe,  will  make  the  lambs  grow  like  weeds. 

Eaiirel-poisoiied  Slieep.— In  a  former 
notice  of  the  Sheep-laurel  or  Lamb-kill,  we  mentioned 
some  of  the  proposed  antidotes.  A  correspondent  takes 
us  to  task  for  making  so  light  of  the  decoction  of  musk¬ 
rat’s  tail,  and  asserts  that  he  has  known  it  to  cure.  Others 
have  sent  “certain  remedies”  to  be  used  in  cases  of 
poisoning  by  laurel,  among  which  are,  placing  an  onion 
under  the  fore-leg  of  tlie  animal  and  forcing  a  ball  made  of 
soft  soap  and  corn  meal,  down  its  throat.  From  the  reme¬ 
dies  said  to  answer,  it  seems  that  the  poison  is  not  virulent. 


ISciis  witla  tlie  l>iimp>$. — “They  are 
taken  with  a  weakness  in  their  legs  ;  they  hobble  around 
for  a  week  or  two  until  they  have  not  strength  to  .stand  ; 
appetite  fails  ;  they  linger  three  or  four  weeks  and  die.” 
That’s  what's  the  matter  with  H.  Mansfield’s  fowls,  (New 
Haven  Co.,  Conn.)  They  probably  do  not  have  range 
and  wild  foraging  enough,  and  perhaps  they  lack  regular 
feeding  with  grass  or  vegetables.  Give  them  these,  and 
put  some  Tincture  of  Chloride  of  iron,  enough  to  be  dis¬ 
tinctly  tasted,  into  their  water ;  also  feed  them  well 
twice  a  day  with  bread  soaked  in  ate. 

'Wlint  Ailed,  tiie  Cliickeiis.  —  A  sub¬ 
scriber  of  the  Agriculturist,  says  tliat  he  lost  several  val¬ 
uable  chickens  in  a  mysterious  manner.  One  after  an¬ 
other  drooped  and  died.  Their  rumps  appeared  mucli 
inflamed,  and  a  post-mortem  examination  disclosed  the 
cause.  Tlie  chickens  had  swallow'cd  kernels  of  Indian 
corn,  which  had  swollen  so  large  that  they  could  not 
pass  off.  The  obstruction  of  this  passage  caused  inflam¬ 
mation  and  death.  Young  cliickens  cannot  mash  kernels 
of  grain  in  their  gizzards.  Their  feed  should  be  fine. 

A  Fine  E£c;^ioii  in  tlic  Sontli. — From 
a  private  letter  received  from  D.  Redmond,  Esq.,  of 
Augusta.  Ga.,  editor  of  the  Southern  Cultivator,  (the 
only  Southern  Agricultural  journal,  we  believe,  which 

outlived  the  war,)  we  make  the  following  extract _ 

“  There  is,  however,  in  our  middle  and  upland  country  a 
wide  field  for  the  enterprising  and  industrious  emigrant 
from  the  North,  or  from  Europe.  Striking  a  line  from 
Raleigli,  N.  C.,  to  Montgomery,  Ala.,  we  have  a  belt  of 
midland  country  50  to  100  miles  wide,  which  for  salubri¬ 
ty  of  climate  andvaiietyof  production,  is  scarcely  ex¬ 
celled  on  the  globe.  Here  we  can  raise  successfully  all 
the  grasses  and  grains  of  the  North,  and  here  Pomona 
holds  her  court  and  reigns  perpetually.  Looking  from 
tlie  window  at  which  I  write  [Augusta,]  I  see  the  fig  of 


the  tropics  growing  hardily  and  vigorously— bearing  two 
and  sometimes  three  crops  a  year — close  beside  the 
sturdy  apple  of  more  temperate  climes  ;  while  our  poor 
old  ‘worn  out’  hillsides,  too  barren  for  either  cotton  or 
corn,  produce  the  finest  peaches  and  grapes  in  the  known 
world.  Indeed  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  Nature  intend¬ 
ed  the  greater  part  of  this  Middle  Country  for  orchards 
and  vineyards,  as  the  soil  and  climate  are  both  so  favor¬ 
able  that  trees  and  vines  can  be  cultivated  and  brought 
into  bearing  with  half  the  time  and  labor  required  in  less 
genial  climes.  Throughout  all  this  region  land  is  cheap 
and  easily  obtained,  and  for  men  of  limited,  means,  I  do 
not  know  of  any  other  country  presenting  so  many  at¬ 
tractions  and  advantages.”  [.\dmitting  all  that  Mr.  Red¬ 
mond  claims,  the  only  drawback  would  seem  to  be  the 
lack  of  market  facilities  for  disposing  of  the  probable 
fruit  products  to  advantage,  should  the  region  be  filled 
up  with  fruit  cultivators. — Ed.] 

Too  Heavy  Feediiig,  ISad. — Poor  ani¬ 
mals  do  not  always  consume  large  quantities  of  feed 
profitably.  Better  increase  their  daily  amount  gradually, 
as  they  appear  to  improve  in  flesh,  than  to  commence 
feeding  larger  quantities  than  they  can  aisimilate.  An 
excellent  rule  in  fattening  all  kinds  of  stock  is,  to  feed 
moderately  until  they  show  improvement  in  flesh,  then 
increase  the  amount  gradually,  according  to  the  capacity 
of  the  animal.  Never  feed  so  much  that  they  will  not 
eat  it  clean,  and  appear  to  want  a  little  more.  This  rule 
followed,  secures  good  appetite  and  digestion. 

Einie,  if  applied  to  grass  land  too 
freely,  is  injurious.  tVe  know  a  good  farmer,  who  hauls 
many  tons  over  two  miles  every  spring,  and  sow's  it  on 
his  meadows,  regarding  it  an  excellent  fertilizer.  It 
should  be  sowed  with  a  machine  that  will  crush  the 
lumps,  and  distribute  the  lime  so  evenly  that  there  will 
not  be  enough  in  any  one  mass  to  injure  the  vegetation. 

Tam-kai'lc,  Sumac,  etc. — A  Subscriber 
of  Wilmington.  Del.,  asks  if  Sumac  leaves,  the  refuse  of 
a  morocco  factory,  are  good  as  manure.  They  would 
doubtless  make  an  excellent  mulch,  like  tan-bark,  hut 
would  probably  decay  more  rapidly.  We  have  never 
tried  the  article,  but  have  found  spent  tan  bark  an  excel¬ 
lent  mulch  and  manure  on  a  rather  stiff  soil.  Collect 
and  utilize  all  such  wastes.  See  if  tliere  are  not  leather 
scraps,  fleshings,  orilining  waste  at  the  morocco  factory, 
where  the  sumac  is  used,  that  you  can  get. 

Sell  wlieii  you  can  get  a  Fair  Price. 

Says  aWestern  farmer  of  several  years’  experience  in  tliat 
country,  “The  Agriculturist  has  saved  me  many  dollars 
the  past  year  by  the  advice  to  sell  as  soon  as  a  reason¬ 
able  price  is  offered  ,  while  those  wlio  pretended  to  know 
so  much  about  markets  and  who  kept  their  wheat,  oats, 
etc.,  and  had  to  take  them  to  market  by  such  bad  roads 
as  we  have  in  the  'West,  have  paid  dearly  for  waiting. 
For  myself,  I  think  the  Agriculturist  must  be  at  least  as 
useful  for  the  West  as  for  the  East.” 

Hrain  tile  llla.cliiiEte<i>  and  Kiln<«. — 

Good  machines  can  be  bought  for  $200,  perhaps  $150. 
They  have  been  greatly  improved  and  simplified  of  late 
years.  Where  there  is  good  clay  (no  sand  is  needed)  one 
machine  would  make  tiles  enough  for  a  circuit  of  several 
miles.  The  tiles  must  be  burnt  in  a  kiln.  We  would 
like  to  hear  from  any  of  our  readers  who  have  experience 
in  regard  to  the  best  form  of  kilns,  and  the  best  way  to 
arrange  the  tiles  for  burning.  This  knowledge  would 
promote  the  sale  of  tile  machines  and  use  of  tile  drains. 

flndei'draiMing'  si  Hsii-itiisin. — The 

formation  of  “  hardpan  ”  is  the  first  step  in  the  progress 
of  soils  toward  becoming  a  sandstone  rock.  “  A  Sub¬ 
scriber.”  of  Blair  Co.,  Pa.,  wants  to  know  if  it  will  do 
any  good  to  put  underdraius  down  into  the  hardpan. 
Certainly— It  is  the  only  way  to  arrest  its  further  harden¬ 
ing  and  give  the  plants  a  chance  to  work  into  it,  and 
the  roots  air  and  water.  Except  in  cases  of  very  close 
hardpans,  drains  3  or  4  feet  deep  and  2.5  to  30  feet  apart 
will  after  a  few  years  break  (hem  up,  especially  if  the 
plow  and  subsoiler  are  run  a  little  deeper  each  year. 

Tlie  Fair  of  line  Aiiiiei'icaii  liisti> 

tlite. — This  fair,  which  was  kept  open  over  a  month, 
was,  we  are  assured,  a  pecuniary  success.  Our  notice  of 
the  Horticultural  portion  has  already  been  given.  Since 
the  close  of  the  fair  there  has  been  a  general  “pitching 
into”  the  management,  and  many  sha  p  and  some  hard 
tilings  liave  been  said.  There  was  much  tliat  might  have 
been  better,  but  take  tlie  exhibition  as  it  was,  it  was  a 
great  deal  better  tlian  none,  and  no  intelligent  observer 
could  go  there  without  receiving  (lie  value  of  the  entrance 
fee  in  amusement  and  instruction.  Now,  instead  of 
railing  at  (he  Institute  for  having  done  no  better,  we 
prefer  to  suggest  Imw  they  may  improve  upon  the  lesson 


1805.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


367 


of  ttie  past.  If  the  Institute  proposes  to  liokl  a  fair  next 
year,  or  tiie  year  after,  let  tliem  begin  now  to  prepare  for 
it.  Organize  departments,  offer  premiums,  and  even 
seieet  judges.  The  greatest  troubie  at  the  last  fair,  was, 
lack  of  organization  and  lack  of  workers,  and  the  next 
greatest,  was  the  want  of  publicity,  in  making  the  matter 
known  sufficiently  before  hand.  One  to  build  a  steam 
engine,  or  grow  a  geranium,  should  have  at  least  six 
month’s  notice.  It  is  very  easy  to  get  together  a  collec¬ 
tion  of  advertising  exhibitors,  but  let  us  for  once  have  a 
real  “exposition,”  as  the  French  say,  of  American  arts 
and  manufactures,  and  to  do  this  it  is  necessary  to  begin 
at  least  a  year  before  hand.  Gentlemen  of  the  Institute — 
let  us  have  something  corresponding  to  your  broad  title 
of  "  American.” 

diai’i*ing'  i'^eitce  5*osts  hastens  their 
decay.  The  writer  lias  tried  tlie  experiment,  and  found 
that  charred  posts  rotted  off  4  to  6  years  sooner  than  those 
not  charred.  There  is  a  thin  portion  of  wood  between 
the  charcoal  and  the  unburned  wood.  If  the  thin  coating 
of  charcoal  would  exclude* the  moisture  from  the  un¬ 
burned  timber,  it  would  preserve  posts  from  speedy 
decay,  but  it  usually  does  not. 

A.  Bundle  of*  Ijiquivies- — William  H. 
Wood,  Winebago  Co.,  Ill.,  asks  the  following  questions  ; 
“  Is  buckwheat  straw  injurious  to  cattle  and  sheep,  and 
will  it  give  sheep  the  itch  ?”  No.  When  properlv  cured 

it  is  an  excellent  fodder. - Are  pumpkin  seeds  when 

fed  with  the  pumpkins,  injurious  to  milch  cows  ?  Will 
they  tend  to  dry  up  the  milk?  The  fact  that  pumpkin 
seeds  are  a  diuretic  of  considerable  power,  being  some¬ 
times  administered  by  physicians  as  such,  led  us  to  be¬ 
lieve  the  popular  notion  was  not  without  foundation. 
However,  we  know  of  cases  where  the  experiment  has 

been  tried  and  no  drying  up  followed. - Is  there  any 

preparation  for  keeping  plows  from  rusting  ?  Apply  a 
thin  coat  of  any  kind  of  varnish,  or  boiled  linseed  oil,  or 
lard  and  rosin  melted  together,  to  the  polished  surface. 

- Wlien  a  plow  is  rusty  what  is  the  quickest  way  of 

taking  it  (the  rust)  off,  so  as  to  make  it  bright  ?  Scour  it 
with  a  piece  of  grindstone  and  water,  or  with  a  soft  brick, 
or  piece  of  wood  and  sand,  keeping  the  surface  wet. 

Marl  for  Fruit  Trees. — “E.  D.,”  Roudout, 
N.  Y.  The  term  marl  is  applied  very  indefinitely.  If  it 
is  shell  marl,  it  'would  undoubtedly  be  beneficial  on  a 
soil  deficient  in  lime,  and  all  the  better  if  the  marl  is  of  a 
kind  that  can  be  burned  to  form  quick  lime. 


Kemoviug  l£ust  from  Saws. — Procure 
at  some  drug  store,  a  piece  of  pumice  stone  as  large  as  a 
hen’s  egg,  grind  one  side  flat  on  a  grindstone,  then  scour 
off  the  rust  with  the  pumice  stone  and  soapsuds.  Cover 
the  surface  with  lard  in  wliicli  there  is  no  salt. 

Care  of  Steel  Flows. — Wash  them  elean 
and  as  soon  as  dry,  apply  a  thin  coat  of  any  kind  of  var¬ 
nish,  or  boiled  linseed  oil,  or  lard  melted  with  a  little 
rosin,  which  is  good.  This  will  keep  tlie  polished  sur¬ 
face  from  rusting  during  winter,  and  will  slip  off 
readily  as  soon  as  the  plow  runs  a  few  rods  in  the  soil. 

XSie  Mixing-  of  S«iuaslies. — F.  Brooks, 
Winona  Co.,  Minn.  Tlie  fertilizing  of  one  kind  of 
squash  or  pumpkins  by  the  pollen  of  another,  probably 
depends  entirely  upon  its  being  carried  from  one  flower 
to  another  by  bees  and  other  insects.  Where  there  are 
many  kinds  in  the  same  neigliborhood,  the  only  way  to 
insure  purity  is  to  fei-tilize  tlie  flowers  artificially  before 
the  bees  get  at  them.  The  pistillate  flowers  must  be  ta¬ 
ken  just  as  they  are  about  to  open,  when  the  parts  will 
separate  by  a  slight  force,  and  apply  pollen  from  a 
staminate  flower.  Tie  a  bit  of  muslin  over  the  flower 
thus  treated,  to  keep  the  bees  out,  and  let  it  remain  until 
the  fruit  begins  to  swell. 

Targe  aatl  CJaiickly  CJro wait  SaiJiasla- 
es. — A  fine  specimen  of  squash  upon  our  tables  bears 
the  name  of  J.  W.  Somarindyck,  Glen  Cov-e,  L.  I.  Its 
weight  is  145  lbs.,  but  its  twin  brother  on  the  same  vine 
weighed  170  lbs.  The  blossoms  dropped  September  5th, 
and  the  fruit  was  taken  off  Oct.  23d.  One  day  this  squash 
increased  its  circumference  5  inches  in  24  hours,  and  it 
did  the  same  at  the  rate  of  inches  each  day  for  7  days. 

TI»e  F.  €>.  Momey  C&rders,  are  proving  a 
great  convenience.  At  any  established  Money  Order 
Office  one  can  by  simply  paying  in  a  sum  of  money,  have 
it  paid  at  any  other  Order  Office,  to  any  person  indicated. 
As  no  one  else  can  get  it,  and  duplicated  orders  are  issued 
if  the  first  one  is  lost,  it  is  a  perfectly  safe  mode  of  trans¬ 
mitting  money  by  mail,  and  the  return  of  the  receipt  is 
positive  evidence  of  the  payment  of  money.  The  charge 
is  10  cents  for  a  sum  under  $1  ;  15  cents  for  $10  to  $20  ; 
and'  20  cents  for  $20  to  $30.  For  over  $30  more  orders 


can  be  purchased,  thus,for  $44..50,  buy  one  order  of  $30  and 
another  of  $14.50.  Many  of  our  club  subscriptions  are 
forwarded  in  this  way.  A  Draft  on  a  New  York  City 
Bank,  payable  to  the  order  of  the  Publishers,  is  equally 
safe  and  convenient,  and  usually  costs  but  little  more,  if 
there  is  a  bank  near  by. — We  append  an  alphabetical  list 
of  the  new  Money  Order  Offices,  established  since  our 
published  list  in  the  Agriculturist  for  last  August  ; 

Maine:  Winter-port _ New  York:  Rome _ New  Jer¬ 

sey:  Bordentown,  Flemington,  Sa\em  ...  .Pennsylvania  : 
Bethlehem,  Clearfield,  Mauoh  Chunk,  Titusville - Vir¬ 
ginia:  Petersbui-g,  Richmond _ North  Carolina:  Wil¬ 
mington _ South  Carolina:  Charleston - Georgia: 

Savannah _ Alabama:  Mobile _ Missisippi :  Natchez 

_ Arkansas:  Dittle  Rock  ..  .Tennessee:  Knoxville - 

Ohio:  Bi-yan,  Chagrin  Falls,  Garrettsville,  Outville - 

Indiana:  Anderson _ Illinois:  Aledo,  Carlyle,  Mon¬ 

mouth,  Vlenona  ....  Michigan :  Bay  City,  Newaygo, 
Marnita  . .  Wisconsin  :  Beaver  Dam,  Chippewa  Falls, 
Janesville,  Mineral  Port,  Richland,  Watertown — Totva: 

Tipton _ Missouri:  Colujnbia,  Gallatin,  Washington. 

..t, Kansas:  Fort  Scott _ California:  Denver,  Los 

Angelos,  Marysville,  Mountain  City,  Nevada  City,  Sacr-a- 
mento,  San  Francisco.  San  Jose,  Senora,  Stockton ... . 
Oregon:  Poi'tlaud  ...Utah:  Salt  Lake  City ...  .Nevada  ; 
Vii'gin  City. 

Fine  Qwiraces. — Mr.  F.  Scholer,  Brooklyn, 
exhibited  upon  our  tables  large  and  fair  quinces,  a'sarnple 
of  108  fi-om  a  tree  which  has  yielded  about  the  same 
number  for  years  in  succession.  Why  are  not  more 
quinces  gr-own  ?  At  present  prices  they  must  pay  well. 
Nothing  is  finer  to  look  at  than  a  tree  loaded  with  this 
golden  fruit,  and  then  for  preserves  there  is,  to  the 
writer’s  notion,  nothing  else  half  so  good. 

Keeping  Ci«ler  S-vreet. — M.  M.  Hester, 
Huron  Co.,  Ohio,  gives  the  following  as  his  method 
of  treating  cider  :  “  In  gathering  apples,  avoid  getting  in 

leaves  or  rotten  apples,  and  before  making,  thoroughly 
wash  the  vat,  press,  receiving  tub,  etc.  Have  clean 
barrels,  fill  them  with  cider  as  soon  as  it  runs  from  the 
press,  avoiding  mucii  exposure  to  air.  Place  the  barrels 
in  a  position  to  draw  from,  and  let  stand  until  it  settles, 
say  24  hours.  .Make  a  strong  brimstone  match  by  dip¬ 
ping  a  piece  of  cloth  2  inches  wide,  and  1  inch  long,  in 
melted  sulphur.  This  is  to  be  fastened  to  a  piece  of  wire 
about  3  feet  long,  having  a  small  hook  on  the  end.  Set 
the  sulphur  on  fire,  put  it  in  the  empty  barrel  half  way 
down,  raising  it  up  gradually  till  the  match  burns  out, 
then  draw  off  the  clear  cider  and  put  it  in  with  the 
smoke.  Bung  it  up  tight  and  keep  it  in  a  cool  place. 
When  treated  in  this  way  it  has  always  kept  sweet  with 
us,  without  any  sharp  or  unpleasant  taste.” 

“Kev.  Ed.-\va,i*tl  Wilson.” — This  man 
keeps  on  advertising,  and  of  course  gets  patronage  to 
pay  for  it.  If  any  of  our  readers  patronize  him  after  the 
repeated  notices  he  has  had  in  this  jotirnal,  they  deserve 
what  they  get.  Those  who  want  to  see  his  recipe  will 
find  it  in  the  Agriculturist  for  .Tuly,  1859.  He  then  ad¬ 
vertised  himself  as  a  member  of  the  New  Haven  Metho¬ 
dist  Conference,  but  on  being  told  in  the  Agriculturist  that 
there  was  no  such  Conference, he  transferred  his  -‘church 
relationship  ”  to  the  “  New  England  Conference.’’ 
Will  he  please  tell  how  he  got  in  or  out  ?  As  he  ap¬ 
pears  to  be  poorly  re.ad  up  in  church  matters,  w-e  will 
kindly  inform  him  th-at  his  present  professed  residence 
is  in  the  bounds  of  the  New  York  East  Conference. 

Medicines. — “  K.  L.  C.”  and  others  :  We  can¬ 
not  answer  about  tliese  advertised  things  in  any  other 
than  the  general  terms  often  repeated.  We  w-o\ild  not 
take  any  of  them,  nor  advise  others  to  do  so. 

Fine  Cranl»erries. — Our  offloe  has  befen 
ornamented  for  some  w-eeks  by  a  hanging  basket  filled 
w'ith  cranberry  vines,  loaded  with  large  and  finely  color¬ 
ed  fruit.  This  very  beautiful  specirtren  came  from  Dr. 
B.  H.  Stevens,  Essex,  Conn.,  who  has  experimented 
very  successfully  in  the  cultivation  of  the  eranberry. 

An  Ever-tolooming- Tiolet. — At  the  Phil¬ 
adelphia  exhibition  was  a  stand  of  violets  w-hich  diffused 
a  most  delicious  fragrance, and  attracted  much  .attention. 
It  is  called  the  Schcenbrunn  Violet,  and  is  said  by  the 
exhibiter,  Mr.  J.  Gerney  of  Philadelphia,  to  be  ever- 
blooming,  affording  flowers  even  in  mid-summer. 

TronI>le  -with  Fall>l>ag-es. — C.  V.  Br.adey, 
Clearfield  Co.,  Pa.,  w-rites  to  know  “the  cause  of  my 
cabbage  leaves  rotting  and  sprouts  coming  out  between 
the  ground  and  the  head.”  What  is  said  on  page  375, 
w-itli  regard  to  horse-chestnut  and  other  trees,  will  apply 
to  cabbages.  The  peculiar  season  caused  them  to  ripen 
prematurely.  Weather  favorable  to  growth  followed, 
and  as  tlie  terminal  bud  (or  he.ad)  was  mature  and  could 
grow-  no  more,  the  axillary  buds  on  the  stump,  which  usu¬ 


ally  remain  dormant,  started.  We  know  no  other  remedy 
than  to  take  them  up  as  soon  as  they  cease  to  grow . 

Tealc.s  rroni  '^Vatei*  Ksiiiiiiug-  clo-wii 
tl»e  Sides  ol’  Cliimneys.— Cut  out  the  mortar  an 
inch  or  more  deep,  between  two  courses  of  the  bricks, 
insert  a  strip  of  slieet  iron  4  inches  wide,  and  fill  the 
joint  again  with  good  mortar.  The  iron  strips  will  carry 
rain,  w-hich  flo-ws  down  its  sides,  away  from  the  chimney. 

SSijSfli  Frice  of  "Woolesk  Fsilurics. — 

“Subscriber,”  of  Sidney,  0.,  writes  approvingly  of  our 
advice  in  October  (page  301,)  not  to  buy  cotton  fabrics 
now,  and  suggests  the  same  course  with  reference  to 
woolens.  Doubtless  it  would  help  reduce  the  present 
exorbitant  and  uncalled-for  high  prices  of  almost  all 
commodities,  especially  manufactured  goods,  if  people 
would  generally  economize  as  far  as  possible  in  their  use. 
Cotton  goods  are  especially  to  be  let  alone,  when  pos¬ 
sible,  because  one-fourth  to  one-half  of  the  present  prices 
goes  into  the  hands  of  a  few  individuals  who  manage  to 
control  the  market,  owing  to  the  limited  supply  of  manu¬ 
factured  stock  on  hand.  The  operatives  receive  only- 
fair  w-ages.  At  the  present  price  of  r.aw-  cotton,  which  is 
abundant,  the  manufactured  goods  could  be  made  and 
sold  at  a  profit,  for  little  more  than  half  the  prices  charg¬ 
ed  for  them.  This  is  not  quite  the  case  with  woolens, 
and  their  use  is  less  easily  dispensed  w-ith,  especially  at 
this  season  of  the  year.  Still  we  agree  with  “Subscrib¬ 
er,”  that  we  should  all  strike  for  a  reduction  in  prices  by 
purchasing  the  least  possible  amount,  uniil  there  is  sucli 
an  accumulation  of  stock  that  a  large  reduction  in  price 
will  become  necessary  in  order  to  effect  sales. 

l>oiiI>le  Booi’s  foil*  Cell3ii*s.— Two  sets 
of  sash  with  glass  in  them  to  each  window,  will  admit 
light  into  cellars,  and  exclude  the  cold  nearly  as  well  as 
if  stopped  with  the  bark  or  other  material.  Doors  hung 
one  on  each  side  of  the  casing,  if  made  to  fit  closely, 
will  prevent  vegetables  freezing  in  most  cellars,  without 
filling  the  passage  w-ith  straw. 

“Tlie  Crresit  “West.” — Edward  H.  Hall 
has  written  a  book  (published  by  Appleton,  price  $1.00) 
witli  the  above  title.  It  is  a  guide  and  handbook  to  the 
States  and  Territories  west  of  the  Mississippi,  not  includ¬ 
ing  Arkansas,  Louisiana  or  Texas.  We  have  so  many 
inquiries  about  these  countries  and  the  inducements  to 
emigrate,  that  we  are  glad  to  be  able  to  refer  our  readers 
to  a  book  containing  so  much  that  is  valuable,  and  app-a- 
rently  edited  with  conscientious  care.  We  can  supply  it. 


A  Ae-tv  '%Aoi*l£  oaii  Natmral  History. 

— A  work  on  Zoology,  that  branch  of  natural  history 
which  treats  on  animals,  by  Prof  Tenney  of  the  Vassar 
Female  College,  is  just  published  by  Charles  Scrib¬ 
ner  &  Co.,  N.  Y.  Though  w-e  have  had  several  more  or 
less  good  works  upon  zoology,  they  had  the  fault  that 
their  illustrations  were  mainly,  if  not  altogetlier  drawn 
from  foreign  animals.  Prof.  Tenney  gives  us  a  work,  in 
which  tlie  illustrations  are  in  good  part  those  of  American 
species.  The  fault,  or  rather  misfortune,  of  the  work  is 
that  with  such  a  multitude  of  objects  the  notice  of  each 
one  must  be  verv  brief.  This  volume  giving  us  the 
general  outlines  of  classification  and  a  catalogue  of  the 
species,  especially  of  quadrupeds  and  birds,  will  go  far 
towards  supplying  a  long  felt  w-ant.  It  is  a  handsome 
and  clearly  printed  work  of  540  pages,  with  over  500 
illustrations.  As  we  consider  it  will  be  useful  to  those 
of  our  readers,  who  wish  to  know-  about  the  animals  of 
our  country,  we  place  it  on  our  book  list. 

©.  rft  of  F.essoii!?!  foil*  Every 

day  in  tUe  Year,  is  completed.  This  finishes  up 
this  series  which  originated  with  the  senior  editor  of 
the  Agriculturist.  No.  t  includes  the  period  from  the 
birth  of  Christ  to  the  end  of  the  Acts  of  the  Apostles ; 
No.  2,  the  rest  of  tlie  New  Testament ;  No.  3  from 
Adam  to  Elijah,  and  No.  4  from  Elijah'to  Christ.  Each 
book  contains  52  lessons,  embracing  this  number  of  lead¬ 
ing  topics  in  the  order  of  time,  with  a  running  Con¬ 
necting  History,  w  hich  gives  an  epitome  of  the  whole 
Bible  History  embraced  by  each  book.  The  books  are 
non-sectarian,  and  are  used  about  equally  by  all  Chris¬ 
tian  Denominations.  That  they  meet  a  want  is  evident 
from  the  fact  that  about  200,000  copies  of  No.  i  have 
already  been  called  for.  In  this,  Mr.  Judd  retained  no 
copy-right  interest,  but  gave  it  away  to  the  first  publisher 
who  asked  for  it, — the  lessons  having  been  prepared  at  first 
wholly  for  his  own  Sabbath  Scliool.  Editions  of  all  four 
of  the  books  are  now  prepared  for  and  issued  at  the  Ag¬ 
riculturist  office,  where  they  are  supplied  at  15  cents 
each;  $1.50  per  dozen  ;  or  $12  per  100.  If  to  be  sent 
by  mail,  prepaid  postage  must  be  added,  which  is  3  cents 
per  copy  when  10  or  more  go  together,  or  4  cents  each 
when  less  than  10  are  sent.  Four  sample  copies  (Nos. 
1,  2,  3  and  4,)  mailed  post-paid  for  05  cents. 


368 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Decbmbeb, 


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Never  ISefore  have  we  dared,  or  been  able,  to 
promise  so  much  for  a  future  volume,  as  we  can  now 
promise  for  the  Agriculturist  for  1866 — the  2.3tli  volume. 
We  mean  to  make  this  Quarter-Century  Volume  one 
unequaled  in  value.  Our  advertising  patronage  is  now 
so  large  that  we  are  able  to  pay  for  the  best  help,  the  best 
information,  the  best  engravings,  etc.,  that  can  be  ob¬ 
tained  in  the  country.  We  expect  to  expend  about  $1000 
for  every  number  of  the  paper  on  the  reading  matter  alone, 
before  it  goes  to  the  printers’  hands — in  collecting,  sifting, 
condensing,  and  preparing  information,  engravings,  etc. 
The  editorial  force  already  engaged  will  equal  inability 
and  number  tlrat  of  half  a  dozen  or  more  other  good 
Journals.  Elsewhere  we  announce  a  valuable  addition  to 
our  editorial  force.  The  business  is  all  systematized,  and 
two  heads  instead  of  one  will  be  employed  in  overseeing 
it,  leaving  the  long-time  Editor  and  Publisher  much  more 
leisure  than  in  the  past  five  years  to  devote  to  the  editorial 
columns.  Every  subscriber  will  actually  receive  back 
what  costs  as  much  as  his  subscription  money,  that  is,  we 
shall  expend  in  preparing  and  issuing  the  paper  all  the 
money  received  for  subscriptions.  We  know  the  next 
volume  will  be  an  e.xceedingly  valuable  and  interesting 
one,  and  we  invite  all  our  present  readers  not  only  to 
renew  their  subscriptions  now,  but  also  to  make  known 
its  character  and  prospects  to  their  friends  and  neighbors, 
and  invite  them  to  become  readers. 

Respectfully,  ORA3NGE  JUDD  &  CO. 

- - - - - - 

Ssive  tlie  Siirtex — Stitcli  tlie 
kci’M. — Every  copy  of  this  month’s  p.aper  contains  a 
loose,  four-page  sheet,  which  gives  a  Title  Page  to  the 
Volume,  and  a  full  Table  of  the  Contents.  We  put  in  this 
extra  sheet  at  a  large  expense  (at  present  cost  of  paper), 
to  save  trenching  upon  the  reading  pages,  which  are 
thus  left  as  full  as  ever.  It  is  inserted  unstitclicd,  so  as 
to  be  conveniently  removed,  and  placed  at  the  beginning 
of  the  volume,  in  binding  or  stitching,  and  should  be 
carefully  preserved,  or  }t  may  get  lost.  Tlioso  w  ho  do 
fiot  bind  the  volumes,  n)ay  preserve  tiic  jiymbers  iii 


a  convenient  form  for  reference,  by  laying  them  to. 
gether  in  order,  and  after  making  a  hole  through  the 
backs  with  an  awl,  or  any  sharp  point,  fasten  them  with 
strong  thread,  put  through  several  times.  Pieces  of  paste¬ 
board,  or  of  any  thick  paper,  may  be  used  for  a  cover,  if 
desired.  A  few  moments  work  will  fix  up  a  valuable 
volume  for  reference,  and  prevent  the  loose  numbers 
from  being  lost,  or  being  used  by  Biddy  for  “kindlings.” 

See  Publishers’  other  Notices  on  page  364. 

Useliil  Hooks. — Since  writing  tire  above,  we 
concluded  to  insert  with  the  index  a  list  of  some  of  our 
good  books,  to  which  we  invite  attention.  Farmers  can 
not  read  too  much  about  their  business.  If  a  book 
furnishes  a  single  hint  that  saves  an  animal,  that  in¬ 
creases  the  product  of  a  whole  field  by  only  a  bushel  or 
two  per  acre,  that  saves  ten  dSlars  in  building,  or  other¬ 
wise,  of  course  it  is  a  good  investment,  and  there  are  few 
books  that  will  not  do  so  much.  Besides,  it  adds  to  one’s 
satisfaction,  and  lightens  his  toil,  if  by  reading  he  ac¬ 
quires  more  information,  and  a  larger  store  of  thoughts. 
He  thus  sees  more  in  the  rocks,  the  stones,  the  soil,  and 
the  plants  he  works  among.  Let  the  young  people  see 
and  read  books  and  papers  on  the  business  of  the  farm, 
and  they  will  esteem  it  higher,  and  be  more  contented 
at  home.  Gifts  for  yie  Holidays  may  well  be  selected 
from  these  books. 

Two  Excellesat  Annuals. — We  are  hap¬ 
py  to  announce  in  press,  and  to  be  published  this  month, 
two  very  valuable  Annuals,  both  of  which  are  worthy  of 
a  place  in  the  hands  of  every  cultivator  in  the  country, 
viz:  The  Register  of  Rural  Adairs, by  John  J.  Thomas, 
Associate  Editor  of  the  Country  Gentleman,  and  the 
Rural  Annual,  by  Joseph  Harris,  hitherto  Editor  of  the 
Genesee  Farmer,  but  henceforth  on  (he  American  Agri¬ 
culturist,  (as  noticed  on  page  364).  The  two  works  are 
entirely  different,  and  are  both  filled  with  excellent  prac¬ 
tical  matter.  Editions  of  each  are  issued  at  the  Agricul¬ 
turist  Office.  Rural  Register,  30  cents  ;  Rural  Annual, 
25  cents.  Sent  by  mail  post-paid  at  the  same  prices. 

^  I  '  I 

The  Agriculturist  Strawberry. 


In  sending  out  many  tens  of  thousands  of  a  new  plantto 
as  many  different  people,  it  was  to  be  expected  that  some 
would  be  disappointed,  either  through  their  own  want 
of  skill,  or  from  causes  entirely  beyond  the  control  of 
any  one.  As  some  would  never  succeed  with  any 
kind  of  a  plant,  their  failures  are  not  surprising,  but 
there  are  instances  in  which  the  plants  sent  out  failed 
this  year  to  multiply,  and  these  deserve  notice.  We 
have  for  some  time  kept  a  file  of  all  the  favorable  and 
unfavorable  reports  concerning  the  strawberry,  and  are 
glad  to  know  that  it  has  generally  done  so  well.  The 
following  is  selected  as  a  specimen  of  the  complaints  : 
“  My  strawberry  plant  was  received  about  the  middle  of 
May,  and  it  has  grown  to  a  large  plant,  covering  nearly 
the  space  of  a  half  bushel,  but  no  runners  have  .appear¬ 
ed.”  And  of  course  the  writer  wishes  to  know  what  is 
the  matter.  Strawberries  make  two  kinds  of  branches, 
short  branches  arising  erect  from  the  main  stock,  and 
long  slender  ones  which  lie  upon  the  ground.  In  the 
first  case  the  plant  forms  “  stools,’’  and  in  tire  second, 
“runners.”  Plants  do  not  generally  do  both  largely,  and  to 
induce  them  to  stool,  we  clip  off  the  runners.  The 
“Agriculturist”  has  a  remarkable  tendency  to  form 
large  stools,  and  though  it  usually  makes  abundant  run¬ 
ners,  there  seems  to  have  been  some  peculiarity  .about 
the  past  season  which  directed  its  energies,  in  many  pla¬ 
ces,  to  multiplying  its  upright  rather  than  its  running 
branches — to  stool  rather  than  to  run.  We  ascribe  this 
to  season  ratJier  than  to  soil,  for  the  reason  that  plants 
on  tire  same  ground  where  they  ran  abundantly  last 
year,  have  done  nothing  but  stool.  We  know  of  no  help 
in  these  cases  but  good  culture  and  p.atience.  That  (hey 
are  the  exceptions,  and  not  the  general  rule  even  this 
season,  we  are  convinced.  We  give  now'  some  instances 
in  which  the  plant  has  multiplied  abundantly;  Mr.  E. 
W.  Clark  called  to  say  that  he  had  one  plant  last  fall, 
which  produced  426  young  ones,  and  in  running  covered 
a  bed  4  feet  by  2'2  feet,  almost  entirely.  Mr.  G.  Herbert, 
a  strawberry  grower  of  Peekskill,  N.  Y.,  says  :  “  I  con¬ 
sider  it  the  most  vigorous  plant  I  ever  saw.”  H.  G.  Sa¬ 
bin,  Milwaukie,  Wis.,  put  out  tw'o  plants  last  spring, 
and  on  Sept.  11th  he  writes:  “they  have  now  increased 
to  132,  and  before  winter  I  think  I  shall  have  double  the 
number.”  Mr.  G.  L.  Brunton,  Centralia,  Ill.,  set  out 
one  plant  May  Isl,  and  Sept.  10th  had  140  young  plants. 
Mr.  Win.  Parry,  of  Cinnaminson,  N.  J.,  well  known  ns 
a  gentleman  of  largo  experience  in  fruit  culture,  writes 
as  follows  I  “The  first  plant  we  had  was  r.ither  dry  and 
unpromising  when  it  arrived,  and  in  order  to  promote  a 
rapid  grow  th,  it  was  treated  to  a  double  dose  of  guana, 
which  completed  the  wprk,  and  tire  plant  failed  tq  make 


a  start.  Another  lot  of  300  were  obtained  in  bad  order^. 
many  of  them  having  but  little,  if  any,  vitalily  w  hen  spti 
out ;  less  tlian  one-third  of  them  survived,  but  those  that 
lived  are  now  making  a  fine  growth  and  spreading  well' 
on  heavy  loam  land.  Anotlier  lot  of  500  were  received 
from  Mr.  Carpenter  in  good  order,  and  planted  on>. 
light  sandy  soil,  four  feet  apart,  in  rows  six  feet  from' 
eacli  other,  allowing  24  square  feet  for  each  plant.  The 
whole  surface  is  now  literaly  covered,  so  as  to  make  it 
difficult  to  walk  among  them  without  treading  on  the 
plants.  It  far  surpasses  in  vigorous  growth  any  otlier 
strawberry  we  have  similarly  treated,  except  its  parent, 
the  Green  Prolific.  It  promises  to  be  well  .adapted  to 
our  light  sandy  land,  where  most  of  the  large  fruited  va¬ 
rieties,  such  as  Triomphe  de  Gand  and  others,  proved 
worthless  —  H.  Johnson,  Windham  Co.,  Conn.,  reports 
250  plants  from  one  plant  received  and  set  in  open  ground. 
Sept.  3d,  1864  Last  spring  37  berries  set  on  the  original 
plant.  Its  crown  (Nov.  6),  started  new  flow  ers  and  fruit, 

one  berry  as  large  as  a  walnut - Others  report  similar 

results,  and  we  have  received  from  different  persons  a 
number  of  specimens  of  autumnal  fruit,  the  result  doubt- 
les  of  the  warm,  dry  season. 

History  of  a  Loaf  of  Bread,  (page  376.) 


We  have  the  gratification  of  presenting  to  our  readers 
the  final  picture  of  the  series  which  we  have  named  the 
“  Pictorial  history  of  a  loaf  of  bread.”  Such  a  picture  is 
the  product  of  the  combined  talent  and  skill  of  artist,  en¬ 
graver,  and  printer,  each  of  whom  owes  to  the  others,  we 
may  say,  everything  of  success.  The  artist,  Mr.  Gran¬ 
ville  Perkins,  faithfully  studied  his  theme  in  all  its  de¬ 
tails,  conceived  the  beautiful  scene  which  he  makes  the 
centre  piece,  placed  it  upon  the  boxwood  block,  sur¬ 
rounding  it  by  the  frame  work  of  appropriate  vignettes, 
which  illustrates  the  eventful  history.  He  has  managed 
his  lights  and  shades  so  as  not  only  to  bring  out  the  gen¬ 
eral  features  of  the  scene,  but  to  impress  every  one  with 
the  cheerful  warmth  of  the  sun-shine,  the  coolness  of 
the  shadowy  recesses  of  the  brook,  and  (he  babbling, 
dancing  lightness  of  the  liberated  waters,  which  have- 
done  their  work  and  are  free  to  play.  This  is  what  is; 
called  “  feeling  ”  in  a  picture  ;  it  is  a  reflex  of  the  soul  of 
the  artist,  and  is  by  no  means  a  purely  mechanical  art. 

The  engraver  takes  the  block,  and  he  must  c.atch  the- 
feeling  of  the  artist;  he  must  know  the  style  of  engrav¬ 
ing  which  the  paper  will  bear,  how  to  produce  his  effects; 
with  such  lines  as  will  print  well,  and  with  the  very  con¬ 
siderable  rapidity  necessary  for  us.  Had  he  failed  to 
catch  the  feeling,  though  he  might  have  taken  great  pains, 
and  placed  his  own  name,  as  he  has  done  on  the  cut,  Mr. 
Perkins  would  very  wisely  have  insisted  that  the  initials 
“G.  P.”  should  be  taken  off.  Finally,  the  printer  has  to 
study  every  picture,  to  see  which  p.arts  are  intended  to 
print  heavy,  and  which  light,  and  by  what  is  called  over¬ 
laying,  so  to  regulate  the  pressure  that  more  or  less  ink 
will  be  taken  up  by  the  different  parts,  that  the  lines  shall 
not  be  hard  and  black,  nor  faint  and  imperfect,  and  so 
that  the  drawing,  delicate  shading,  and  the  pervading 
feeling  shall  be  preserved  and  placed  upon  the  paper. 

In  the  October  picture  we  left  the  corn  threshed  and  in 
bags.  If  a  grist  is  sent  to  mill  direct  from  the  farm,  the 
good  housewife  may  soon  be  kneading  and  moulding  her 
white  loaves  from  the  new  wheat ;  but  the  bread  which 
most  people  eat  lakes  a  longer  course.  There  is  an  im¬ 
mense  inland  commerce  which  exists  in  a  great  measure 
solely  to  convey  the  western  wheat  to  eastern  markets. 
This  is  shown  in  the  upper  right-hand  corner  ;  while  in 
the  opposite  corner,  the  great  foreign  commerce  in  bread- 
stuffs  is  indicated,  where  the  floating  transfer  Elevator  is 
taking  the  cargo  of  a  canal  boat  and  placing  it  on  board 
the  ship  at  the  wharf.  All  the  various  transferrences, 
storages,  cleansings,  kiln-dryings,  etc.,  are  managed  by 
thousands  of  merchants,  who  employ  millions  of  capital, 
and  for  their  convenience,  in  the  great  cities,  they  asso¬ 
ciate  themselves  in  so  called  produce  exchange  boards. 
In  New  York,  they  meet  daily  in  the  fine  building  on 
Whitehall-st.,  known  as  (he  Produce  Exchange,  repre¬ 
sented  on  the  right  side  of  the  page.  Here  transactions 
amounting  to  millions  of  dollars  in  a  single  day  are  made, 
the  corn  (wheat,  barley,  oats  and  Indian  corn),  flour,  etc., 
being  sold  by  sample.  On  the  opposite  side  of  the  pic¬ 
ture,  we  see  some  of  the  great  flour  and  grain  stores, 
and  below  this,  we  look  in  upon  the  two  floors  of  a  city- 
bakery.  The  point  which  is  of  e.special  interest  to  the 
printer,  (who  may  be  at  the  extreme  end  of  this  chain  of 
events,  the  farmer  being  at  the  other,)  is  quaintly  indica¬ 
ted  by  the  youthful  Franklin  in  Philadelphia,  trudging 
along  with  his  two  loaves,  taking  his  first  breakfast  in 
the  Quaker  City.  Our  artist  appropriately  crowns  his 
picture  with  a  group  of  fancy  and  substantial  soi  ls  of 
bread,  twists,  rolls,  brelzels,  hard-bread,  cake,  etc.,  be¬ 
sides  the  queenly,  frosted  and  ornamented  bride’s  cake. 
The  ))icture  in  all  its  details  furnishes  a  pleasing  and 
instrucliye  subject  to  study.  * 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


869 


Fig.  1.— SHEEP  FODDEKDtS  RACK. 

Sheep  Eack^and  Sheep  doddering. 

It  is  usually  a  bad  practice  to  fodder  sheep  by 
throwing  their  food  on  the  ground.  When  the 
forage  is  spread  on  a  grass  plot,  if  the  earth 
is  frozen  or  covered  with  clean  snow,  they  will 
waste  but  little.  But  when  it  is  scattered  in 
soft  places,  as  sheep  always  rush  at  once  upon 
the  large  forkfuls,  much  of  it  will  be  soiled  so 
badly  that  no  animal  will  eat  it.  The  fodder 
thus  wasted  often  amounts  to  several  hundreds 
of  pounds  to  every  ton  fed,  that  may  be  saved. 

Standing  side  by  side  feeding  at  a  rack,  sheep 
usually  occupy  about  one  foot  each  in  breadth. 

A  feeding  rack  30  feet  long,  will  accommodate 
about  20  sheep.  As  sheep  are  apt  to  crowd  each 
other,  it  becomes  necessary  to  employ  some 
means  of  preventing  it  when  they  are  eating 
either  hay -or  grain. 

As  partitions  would 
involve  much  ex¬ 
pense  and  occupy  too 
much  room,  it  is  on¬ 
ly  necessary  to  pro¬ 
vide  feeding  racks 
with  openings  one 
foot  apart,  and  suf- 
ciently  large  to  ad- 
N.  B.  Pearsall,  of 
Otsego  Co.,  N.  Y.,  communicates  for  the  Agri- 
culturis%  a  sketch,  fig.  1,  of  a  sheep  rack.  It 
is  a  combined  hay  and  grain  rack,  and  so  con¬ 
structed  that  it  is  almost  impossible  for  sheep 
to  waste  any  hay  by  drawing  it  out  of  the  man¬ 
ger  beneath  their  feet.  The  illustii*ion  is  of  a 
rack  to  be  placed  on  the  side  of  a  yard.  If  de¬ 
sirable,  it  may  be  made  double,  so  that  a  flock 
can  feed  on  each  side,  the  rack  forming  a  divis¬ 
ion  between  two  apartments.  The  rack  figured 
is  about  3  feet  6  inches  wide,  and  2  feet  9  inches 
high.  The  bottom  board  is  about  13  inches  wide ; 
the  top  one  8  inches  or  more  in  width.  The 
slats  nailed  from  the  bottom  to  the  top  boards 
are  4  to  6  inches  wide,  and  13  inches  from  cen- 


Fig.  3.— GRAIN  TROUGH. 

mit  a  sheep’s  head. — Mr. 


Fig.  3.— SLATS  OYER  THE  GRAIN  TROUGH, 

ter  to  center.  Ordinary  sheep  will  thrust  their 
heads  between  slats  6  inches  apart  at  the  edges. 
If  boards  are  rough,  they  should  be  planed  to 
prevent  tearing  the  wool.  The  space  between 
the  bottom  and  top  boards  should  be  not  less 
than  13  inches.  If  the  sheep  are  large  and  tall, 
the  space  may  be  16  inches  between  the  top  and 


bottom  boards. 
Figure  3,  repre¬ 
sents  a  transverse 
section  of  the 
rack,  showing  the 
grain  trough  (i), 
which  forms  the 
bottom.  The  nar¬ 
row  board  of  the 
trough  is  about  6 
or  7  inches  wide, 
nailed  to  the  wide 
portion.  To  keep 
the  hay  out  of  the 
trough  and  to  pre¬ 
vent  hay  and  seed 
falling  down  into 
the  wool,  a  loose 
partition,  fig.  3,  is 
placed  in  the  rack ;  the  end  is  seen  in  fig.  3. 
This  partition  is  made  with  one  wide  board 
at  the  top,  and  one  or  two  narrow  ones  at  the 
bottom,  having  spaces  between  them  about 
3  inches  wide,  through  which  the  sheep  draw 
the  hay.  If  it  should  be  drawn  through  faster 
than  the  sheep  eat  it,  the  grain  trough  re¬ 
ceives  all  that  drops,  and  prevents  it  from  being 
scattered  under  their  feet.  The  lower  end  of 
the  partition  is  kept  in  place  by  cleats  nailed  to 
the  bottom  board.  When  it  is  desirable  to  clean 
the  trough  the  partition  may  be  turned  to  the 
other  side  or  removed.  This  style  of  rack  will 
be  found  convenient  for  feeding  turnips,  car¬ 
rots,  or  cut  feed  to  sheep,  as  there  is  suffleient 
room  for  their  heads  inside  of  the  slats.  With 
this  kind  of  rack,  every  sheep  can  remain  at  his 
place  w’hile  feeding,  and  be  certain  of  receiving 
an  allowance,  as  it  is  difficult  for  one  to  crowd 
another  away  after  the  flock  all  come  to  the  rack. 

.  ■  .  —  I  - - - 

Wooden  Stable  Forks. 


Manure  forks  with  sharp  steel  tines  are  un¬ 
suitable  tools  to  be  used  when  spreading,  or 
gathering  up  the  bedding  behind  and  under 
horses,  as  an 
inadv  e  r  t  e  n  t 
movement 
may  inflict  a 
serious  w’onnd, 
and  especially 
when  there  is 
not  sufficient 
light  in  stables 
to  enable  one 
to  see  distinct¬ 
ly.  We  have 
known  a  care¬ 
less  boy,  when 
cleaning  out  a 
stable,  to  bad¬ 
ly  wound  the 
legs  of  a  horse 
by  a  heedless 
motion  of  the 
fork,  so  that  he 

was  disabled  for  several  weeks.  To  avoid 
any  injury  from  this  source,  let  wooden  forks 
be  made,  like  the  engraving,  having  a  head 
about  one  foot  long,  one  and  a  half  inches 
square,  with  a  light  handle  and  four  wooden 
tines  about  eight  inches  long.  The  large  end  of 
the  tines  should  be  about  five-eighths  of  an  inch 
in  diameter,  and  they  should  have  a  t^ie  taper 
to  a  diameter  of  one  quarter  of  an  inch  at  the 
small  end,  which  should  be  filed  round  and 
smooth.  Round  tines  enter  straw  more  easily 
than  square  ones,  and  are  withdrawn  with  less 


force.  Such  forks  should  be  made  of  the  hard¬ 
est  and  tonghest  wood  available,  and  should  be 
used  only  to  spread  the  bedding,  and  not  to 
pitch  manure.  The  points  of  manure  fork  tines 
cut  olT  and  ground  or  filed  round,  will  enter 
straw  easily,  and  not  wound  the  horses.  ,, 

'  •  »  a—  — » 

Barn  Door  Fastenings. 

Every  barn  and  stable  door  swinging  on 
hinges,  should  be  provided  with  some  contriv¬ 
ance  to  prevent  its  being  slammed  by  the  wind. 
One  of  the  best  arrangements  for  this  purpose  is 
here  shown.  It  consists  of  a  spar  of  wood, 
about  as  large  as  a  fork  handle,  having  one  end 
fastened  to  the  door  with  an  iron  eye  and  staple, 
or  with  a  strap  of  leather,  and  the  lower  end 
sharpened  to  hold  in  the  ground,  or  armed  with 
a  spike  to  prevent  its  slipping  on  ice.  When 
the  wind  blows  furiously,  it  is  often  hazardous 


BARN  DOOR  FASTENING. 


for  even  a  strong  man  to  attempt  to  open,  or 
close  a  large  barn  door,  which  swings  on  hinges 
without  the  aid  of  something  to  prevent  the 
wind  slamming  it  violently,  and  sometimes 
blowing  it  OS'  the  hinges,  or  splitting  or  break¬ 
ing  some  part  of  it.  But  with  such  a  help  as 
this,  a  boy  can  manage  it  without  danger  to  the 
door  or  himself,  by  moving  the  lower  end  along 
a  short  distance,  at  once.  When  the  fastening 
is  not  in  use,  the  lower  end  is  hung  up  to  a 
staple  on  the  door  with  a  hook  and  strap. 

Mutton  the  Meat  for  the  Million. 

Mutton  is  the  best  meat  we  can  eat, — best,  as 
being  the  healthiest — best,  as  being  the  most 
delicious,  if  well  cooked.  We  do  not  mean  the 
woolly,  greasy  mutton  of  the  Merinos  and  Sax¬ 
onies,  nor  the  coarse,  stringy,  tallowy,  though 
very  economical  mutton  of  the  Lcicesters,  Cots- 
wolds,  and  other  long  wool  sheep.  When  we 
say  mutton  is  the  most  delicious  of  domestic 
meats,  we  have  the  flesh  of  the  middle  wools  in 
mind — that  is,  of  Sonth-downs,  par  excellence, 
and  Cheviots,  Hampshire-downs,  Shropshire- 
downs,  and  others  of  their  kindred  in  a  less  de¬ 
gree.  Mutton  is  made  more  economically,  and 
is  used  up  more  advantageously,  than  pork  or 
beef.  A  farmer  can  seldom  have  fresh  beef  un¬ 
less  he  has  so  large  a  number  of  hands  that 
they  can  consume  a  quarter  before  it  will  spoil. 
More  grain  is  required  to  make  a  pound  of 
pork  than  a  pound  of  mutton.  It  is  more  health¬ 
ful  food  than  pork ;  fat  mutton  will  keep  longer, 
and  a  family  of  ordinary  size  can  dispose  of  a 
small  sheep  before  the  mutton  will  spoil,  even 
in  quite  warm  weather.  Besides,  if  a  farmer  is 
on  friendly  terms  with  his  neighbors,  he  can 
easily  sell,  or  lend  one  or  two  quarters.  By 
a  system  of  exchanging  fresh  meats,  several 
families  may  be  supplied  with  that  of  most  ex¬ 
cellent  quality  at  all  seasons  of  the  }'ear,  at  a 
very  cheap  rate.  Mutton  is  more  nutritious  and 
will  consequently  give  a  laborer  more  strength 
than  pork ;  people  of  studious  habits,  and  chil- 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


370 


dren  in  particular,  will  feel  better,  accomplish 
more,  and  be  more  healthy  Avhen  they  eat  mut¬ 
ton  than  if  they  eat  much  pork  or  even  beef. 

Convenience  is  an  important  consideration  at 
all  times,  on  the  farm  or  elsewhere.  'When 
fresh  mutton  is  wanted,  one  man  can  dress  a 
sheep  or  lamb  in  a  few  minutes ;  while  mueh 
longer  time  is  required  to  butcher  a  beef  or  a 
bog.  Nothing  is  lost  in  making  mutton,  and  it 
costs  comparatively  nothing.  The  wool  will 
usually  cover  all  the  cost  of  keep  during  a  year, 
and  often  that  of  fattening  too.  Taking  this 
view,  which  is  a  fair  one,  no  one  can  fail  to  per¬ 
ceive  that  mutton  is  the  eheapest  meat  that  can 
be  raised.  Small  families  can  salt  and  dry  one 
or  both  hind  quarters,  or  cook  a  quarter  and 
cat  it  cold.  A  quarter  of  lamb  after  it  has  been 
cooked,  may  be  kept  ten  or  twelve  days,  and 
still  be  good.  Farmers  should  learn  to  prepare 
their  own  meat,  and  not  sell  their  animals  to 
butchers,  who  sell  them  the  meata  for  their  own 
tables  at  exorbitant  prices.  Furthermore,  a  great 
many  people  who  have  only  a  garden  or  small 
farm,  can  often  fatten  a  few  sheep  during  the 
winter,  and  thus  have  better  meat,  at  a  much 
cheaper  rate  than  if  they  purchase  it. 

Selection  of  Breeding  Sheep. 


Persons  who  have  not  made  a  business  or 
study  of  keeping  sheep,  are  often  in  doubt  what 
rams  to  select  for  the  stocks ;  and  many  times 
crafty  men  will  impose  on  the  credulity  of  those 
who  ought  to  know  better,  and  induce  them  to 
use  grade  animals.  •  Grade  animals  and  bulls 
Avill  not  transmit  thek  good  points  to  their 
progeny,  with  any  degree  of  certainty.  Whether 
it  is  desireable  to  select  a  South  Down,  a  Lei¬ 
cester,  or  Merino,  it  is  important  to  choose  a 
full  blooded  animal,  in  order  to  secure  the  great¬ 
est  improvement  in  the  increase  of  the  flock. 

The  progeny  of  a  full-blooded  sire  and  ewes 
of  ordinary  quality,  is  almost  alwaj^s  better 
than  anticipated ;  Avhile  that  of  a  grade  sire  with 
such  ewes  will  almost  invariably  be  inferior  to 
their  dams.  Most  farmers  are  influenced  great¬ 
ly  by  the  present  cost  of  a  good  ram,  rather 
than  by  the  prospective  profits  accruing  from 
the  certain  imiArovement  in  their  flocks,  by  pro¬ 
curing  full-blooded  animals.  If  a  farmer  has  a 
hundred  good  ewes,  it  Avill  be  more  profitable, 
Avhether  his  object  is  wool  or  mutton,  to  pay 
$50  or  $100  for  a  ram  which  will  be  a  sure  get¬ 
ter  of  excellent  stock,  than  $20  for  a  grade  ani¬ 
mal  of  equally  good  form,  whose  stock  will  in 
all  probability  not  be  equal  to  himself. 

Breeders  differs  in  opinion  with  regard  to  the 
most  judicious  and  profitable  crosses,  not  only 
for  the  production  of  avooI,  but  for  both  wmol 
and  mutton.  But,  if  mutton  is  the  primary  ob¬ 
ject,  in  a  flock  showing  a  large  infusion  of  Long- 
wool  blood,  a  South  Down  cross  will  make  as 
profitable  mutton  sheep  as  can  reasonably  be 
expected,  and  at  the  same  time  they  w'ill  show 
a  marked  improvement  in  the  quantity  of  wool. 
Should  the  ewes  be  of  a  mongrel  breed  of  fair 
size  and  thrift,  and  the  object  be  to  improve  the 
fleece,  it  will  be  best  to  use  a  full  blooded  Amer¬ 
ican  or  Silesian  Merino  ram.  If  the  choice  is 
early  lambs  for  market,  a  South  Down,  Shrop¬ 
shire  Down,  Cotswold,  or  Leicester  ram  should 
be  selected.  If  the  ewes  are  properly  kept  dur¬ 
ing  the  foddering  season,  the  lambs  will  be  large 
and  strong,  and  bo  ready  for  market  very  early. 
Should  they  be  desired  for  mutton,  when  3  or  4 
years  old,  they  will  be  found  to  yield  quite  as 
large  a  profit,  including  the  produce  of  avooI, 
lambs  and  carcass,  as  any  other  class  of  sheep. 


Flocks  of  sheep  may  be  more  rapidly  im¬ 
proved  by  the  use  of  good  rams  than  by  any 
other  means,  provided  they  have  good  care, 
but  neglect  and  wrong  treatment  will  effectually 
neutralize  all  the  good  a  superior  animal  might 
do  a  flock.  A  mature  ram  should  never  run 
with  more  than  50  ewes  in  this  season,  but  the 
number  may  be  doubled  if  he  is  kept  confined. 
According  to  the  common  practice,  the  rams 
are  very  w’ell  fed  with  grass,  and  have  grain 
daily  for  several  days,  or  weeks  perhaps,  before 
their  introduction  to  the  flock ;  but  after  that 
they  often  receive  no  grain  at  all,  and  sharing 
the  close  pasturage  with  the  ewes,  get  nothing 
else.  Such  treatment,  every  sensible  man  must 
know,  is  most  injurious  both  to  the  ram  and  his 
progeny.  Instead  of  feeding  the  rams  less,  their 
feed  should  be  increased,  and  such  a  variety 
should  be  presented  that  they  Avill  be  induced  to 
fill  themselves  and  pass  several  hours  ruminat¬ 
ing.  The  ram  ought  to  have  all  the  good  hay, 
corn  stalks  and  grass  he  can  eat,  with  not  less 
grain  than  is  equivalent  to  a  pound  of  corn 
meal,  mingled  with  an  equal  quantity  of  un¬ 
bolted  wheat  flour  daily.  In  addition  to  this  he 
should  have  salt  and  fresh  water  always  before 
him.  If  one  has  peas  or  beans  they  may  be  fed 
instead  of  meal,  after  having  been  soaked  24 
hours.  If  rams  will  eat  them,  there  is  no  bet¬ 
ter  feed  for  them  especially  at  this  season. 

When  the  time  of  service  is  nearly  passed,  the 
rams  may  have  their  libertj’’  and  run  with  the 
flock,  for  if  a  flock  is  in  good  condition  and  has 
been  well  w^atched  and  cared  for,  100  ewes  will 
all,  with  rare  exceptions,  have  passed  their 
season  successful!)'  with  only  a  single  ram, 
within  fifteen  or  twenty  days. 

There  are  several  ways  of  managing  a  flock 
at  this  period.  That  of  separating  the  rams 
from  the  ewes  every  night,  and  confining  them 
in  a  small  enclosure  where  they  cannot  hear 
the  flock,  is  most  desirable  in  either  large  or 
small  flocks.  A  very  good  way  is  to  keep  the 
ram  in  a  small  pen  in  the  field  with  the  ewes, 
which  should  be  conveniently  near  the  farm¬ 
stead.  The  ram  should  have  a  cord  about  50 
feet  long  attached  to  his  hind  foot,  by  which  he 
may  be  fastened  to  a  stake  whenever  he  is  let 
out,  which  is  for  the  shortest  possible  time, 
whenever  the  flockmaster  or  shepherd  notices  a 
ewe  lingering  about  his  enclosure.  By  following 
the  hints  here  given,  a  fine  lot  of  vigorous  lambs 
in  April  will  be  almost  certainly  secured. 

-  —  ,1  1^  t  O  TtM  t  ^ 

Care  of  Store  Hogs  in  Winter. 


Store  hogs,  especially  shotes,  really  ought  to 
have  warm  and  dry  apartments  during  cold 
weather.  Their  thin  coat  of  hair  affords  them 
but  little  protection,  hence,  the  importance  of 
warm  pig-sties,  well  littered  with  dry  straw, 
and  so  tight  that  cold  winds  will  not  blow  di¬ 
rectly  on  them.  It  is  far  more  economical  to 
keep  the  animals  warm  in  a  snug  and  well 
ventilated  piggery  than  by  extra  feed,  and 
this  Avill  promote  faster  growth,  if  they  arc 
kept  comfortably  Avarm  by  a  good  building. 
AVhen  a  piggery  is  spacious,  Avith  one  end 
open  to  the  weather  so  that  Avinds  make  their 
sleeping  place  uncomfortably  cold,  a  portion 
should  be  partitioned  off  with  boards  having 
the  edges  Avell  jointed,  and  a  narrow  entrance 
made  at  the  point  least  exposed.  Then  nail  a 
board  6  or  8  inches  high  across  the  bottom  of 
the  entrance  to  keep  the  straw  from  being 
Avorked  out.  Let  a  liberal  supply  of  straAv  al¬ 
ways  be  provided. 


[December, 


It  will  pay  well  to  cook  the  feed  for  store 
hogs,  as  AA' ell  as  for  those  that  arc  being  fattened. 
Swine  will  not  extract  all  the  nourishment  from 
dry  corn  unless  it  is  first  ground  to  fine  meal ; 
and  even  then  it  will  be  much  more  economi¬ 
cal  to  scald  it.  As  farmers  must  necessarily  keep 
a  good  fire  in  the  kitchen  for  a  large  proportion 
of  the  time  during  the  day,  the  expense  of  eook- 
ing  feed  for  a  small  herd  of  swine  in  cold  weath¬ 
er  is  mueh  less  than  the  gain  over  feeding  with 
uncooked  food.  Raw  potatoes  are  frequently 
fed  to  store  shotes.  If  the  same  quantity  were 
boiled,  and  a  few  handfuls  of  meal  mixed  with 
them  as  they  are  mashed,  and  Avarm  dish  water 
mingled  Avith  the  mass,  not  more  than  two- 
thirds  the  amount  would  be  required  to  keep 
pigs  in  a  growing  and  thrifty  condition.  The 
cooking  costs  nothing,  as  a  farmer  or  some  of 
his  help  can  attend  to  the  business  Avhen  there 
are  no  other  duties  to  perform.  If  grain  is  not 
ground,  let  it  be  boiled  until  the  kernels  crack 
open.  Those  who  have  never  practised  cook¬ 
ing  feed,  will  be  surprised  to  find  the  marked 
difference  there  will  be  in  the  quantity  of  feed 
consumed,  and  the  eondition  of  the  animals. 


Some  Notes  on  the  NewYork  City  Fish 
Markets— How  Supplied. 


Probably  not  less  than  one  and-a-half  mil¬ 
lion  people  are  fed  daily  from  the  N.  Y.  City 
markets.  This  number  includes,  besides  the 
regular  population  of  this  city,  that  of  the  im¬ 
mediate  vicinit)^  and  transient  visitors.  The 
immense  demand  thus  created,  of  course  makes 
the  supply  of  each  important  article  of  food  in 
itself  a  subject  of  great  interest.  Fresh  fish 
are  brought  to  this  market,  not  only  from  most 
of  the  large  lakes  and  rivers  of  the  country,  but 
from  points  along  the  entire  length  of  the  At¬ 
lantic  seaboard,  from  Florida  to  Labrador, 
the  different  species  constituting  the  supply 
being  exceedingly  numerous,  and  presenting 
an  almost  endless  variety  as  regards  appearance, 
habits  and  characteristics.  EA^en  the  experi¬ 
enced  naturalist  may  here  find  much  that  is  in¬ 
teresting,  and  no  one  can  fail  to  be  greatly  de¬ 
lighted  as  well  as  instructed  b)^  an  occasional 
visit  to  the  places  where  fish  are  exposed  for 
sale.  Aside  from  these  considerations,  the  skill 
employed  by  the  expert  and  daring  fishermen, 
and  the  ^rils  and  hardships  involved  in  the 
pursuit  of  their  avocation,  lend  a  charm  to  the 
subject,  giving  it  all  the  more  interest. 

The  prineipal  fish  mart. adjoins  the  Fulton 
Market,  on  the  East  river,  at  the  foot  of  Fulton 
street.  This  is  the  only  wholesale  fish  market 
in  the  city,  and  by  far  the  largest  in  the  country. 
A  wholesale  business  is  of  course  done  at  Bos¬ 
ton,  Providence,  and  other  seaport  cities,  but 
here  is  the  central  depot  of  the  fresh  fish  trade 
for  all  sections,  and  unlike  the  meat  market, 
it  promises  to  remain  here  for  a  long  time. 
From  this  center  other  markets  supply  their  de¬ 
ficiencies,  and  here  send  their  surplus  A\'hen 
overstocked.  Prominent  among  the  retail 
markets  of  this  eity  are  Washington,  Jefferson, 
Catherine,  Spring-street,  and  others  located  in 
various  quarters  of  the  city.  A  large  part  of 
the  'fresh  fish,  lioweA'cr,  are  sold  at  small 
shops,  or  peddled  about,  especially  on  Fridays. 

The  Fulton  fish  market  extends  about  150 
feet  along  the  wharf,  the  space  being  appor¬ 
tioned  to  different  dealers.  The  advantage  of 
this  location  is,  that  the  fish  may  be  taken  di¬ 
rectly  from  the  water  into  the  market  Avithout 
the  trouble  or  expense  of  eartage.  In  the 


1865.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


371 


water  adjoining  the  rear  of  the  market,  a 
space  of  an  equal  length,  and  50  feet  or  more  in 
width,  is  occupied  by  the  dealers  for  their  fish- 
“c<ars,”  in  which  tlie  flsli  are  kept  alive.  These 
cars  are  boxes,  about  10  x  12  feet,  and  three 
feet  in  depth,  with  their  bottoms  and  sides 
made  of  slats  for  the  free  admission  of  M'a- 
ter  ;  and  are  sunk  by  putting  in  stones  until 
the .  tops  only  remain  above  water.  When  re¬ 
quired  for  use,  the  fish  are  scooped  out  into  bask¬ 
ets  with  dip  nets  constructed  for  the  purpose, 
and  hoisted  by  tackles  into  the  rear  of  the 
market,  whence  they  are  taken  for  sale  or 
“  trimming  ”  to  the  stands  in  front.  This 
operation,  which  commences  as  early  as  3 
o’clock  in  the  morning,  in  order  that  the  re¬ 
tail  markets  and  shops  ma}'  receive  their  sup¬ 
plies  in  season,  is  mostly  over  by  noon,  and 
comparative  quiet  reigns  where  a  short  time 
since  there  was  great  bustle  and  confusion. 
Large  quantities  of  fresh  fish  are  sent  daily  far 
into  the  interior  of  the  country,  packed  in  close 
boxes  between  alternate  layers  of  ice.  In  this 
way  they  are  preserved  in  all  their  freshness, 
and  appear  as  delicious  upon  the  tables  of 
our  inland  cities  and  towns,  as  at  the  seaboard. 
Fresh-water  fish  from  the  lakes  and  rivers  are 
brought  here  to  the  market  in  the  same  manner, 
except  in  the  winter,  when  ice  is  unnecessary. 
As  a  full  account  of  sales  is  not  kept  by  the 
leasers  of  the  market,  an  accurate  statement  as 
to  the  number  of  pounds  sold  out  from  the 
wholesale  market  daily,  or  yearly,  cannot  be 
made.  One  of  the  superintendents  of  the  market, 
having  had  long  experience  in  the  business, 
estimates  the  average  daily  sales  at  not  less  than 
50,000  lbs.  The  yearly  cash  receipts  at  the 
market,  which  q^-e  more  easily  ascertained,  he 
placed,  after  a  careful  computation,  at  $2,000,000; 
and  the  amount  received  by  independent  dealers 
outside  of  the  market  at  probably  about  $500,- 
000  more.  This  total  of  $2,500,000  gives  an 
average  of  $48,077  paid  weekly  in  this  city  for 
fresli  fish,  not  including  shell  fish.  We  can  not 
now  enter  into  a  description  of  the  diflferent 
varieties  of  fish,  which,  with  the  manner  of 
taking  them,  their  comparative  value  in  mar¬ 
ket,  etc.,  may  form  themes  for  future  articles. 

^  4 -  Iiiaa  ^ 

Sowing  Eye  Late  in  the  Season. 

Winter  rye,  though  not  properly  j^biennial 
plant,  nevertheless  requires  a  portion  of  two 
seasons  to  come  to  perfection.  To  secure 
remunerative  crops  it  is  usually  necessary  to 
put  in  the  seed  early  in  autumn  or  very  late, 
just  before  the  ground  freezes  up.  With  this 
statement  we  think  all  who  have  much  experi¬ 
ence  will  agree ;  as  also,  to  the  statement  that 
the  rye  most  apt  to  winter-kill  is  that  which 
being  sown  in  the  intermediate  time  (October  or 
Hoveinber,)  makes  only  a  small  growth  of  either 
tops  or  roots  before  the  ground  freezes  up. 
Even  this  sometimes  does  very  well,  especially 
if  a  heavy  fall  of  snow  blankets  it  during  the 
Aviuter.  However,  when  the  seed  is  put  in  after 
the  groAving  season  has  past,  so  that  it  will  not 
germinate  until  the  spring,  av inter-killing  is  en¬ 
tirely  avoided  of  course,  and  at  the  same  time 
that  effect  is  produced,  Avhatever  it  is,  Avhich 
makes  winter  rye  sown  in  autumn,  produce  a 
crop,  Avhen  the  same  soAvn  in  spring,  and  com¬ 
ing  up  at  almost  exactly  the  same  time,  would 
not.  We  haA^e  practised  raising  Avinter  rye  in 
this  manner  Avith  the  most  satisfactory  results. 
PloAV  the  ground  as  late  as  possible  in  the  sea¬ 
son  before  it  freezes,  harroAviug  in  a  thin  top¬ 
dressing  of  Avell-rotted  barn)rard  manure,  and 


sow  the  seed  broadcast  or  in  drills.  The  ma¬ 
nure  should  be  as  Avell  rotted,  or  composted  for 
rye,  as  for  a  crop  of  Avheat.  If  the  manure  is 
rather  coarse,  better  ploAV  il  under,  as  it  Avill  be 
more  completely  covered  than  if  harrowed  in, 
unless,  indeed,  you  use  a  Share’s  harrow  and  go 
over  the  field  twice  before  sowing.  Wherever 
the  ground  is  very  wet,  it  should  be  underdrain¬ 
ed,  if  practicable.  OtherAvise  let  it  be  plowed, 
and  the  middle  furrows  cleaned  out  before  seed¬ 
ing,  as  shown  on  page  342  (Hovember).  One  of 
the  best  crops  of  rye  that  the  writer  ever  saw 
was  raised  by  sowing  the  seed  in  December,  only 
one  day  previous  to  the  falling  of  a  deep  snow 
which  remained  on  the  ground  until  the  next 
spring.  Soon  after  the  snow  disappeared,  the 
rj^e  came  up,  having  suffered  no  injury  from 
the  freezing  and  thawing  of  the  soil. 

This  mode  of  raising  rye  can  be  followed 
with  better  success  on  wet  land,  than  if  the  seed 
is  sowed  early ;  still,  better  crops  can  be  raised 
by  seeding  with  spring  rye,  if  good  seed  can  be 
procured.  White  winter  rye  and  Avhite  spring 
rye  can  now  be  obtained  in  most  of  our  large 
cities,  at  the  seed  stores.  One  and  a  half  bush¬ 
els  per  acre  is  sufficient  if  distributed  evenly, 
provided  tire  seed  is  good  and  kernels  small. 
If  the  kernels  are  unusually  large,  seven  pecks 
will  be  none  too  much  for  one  acre.  * 

- »-• - - - - 

Cutting  up  Corn  Stalks  for  Fodder. 


The  advantages  and  disadvantages  of  feed¬ 
ing  corn  stalks  chaffed  or  whole  to  stock  may 
be  thus  stated.  When  the  stalks  are  cut 
into  pieces  which  sheep  and  cattle  are  able  to 
take  into  their  mouths  and  masticate,  they  will 
eat  much  more  of  the  stalks  than  Avhen  not  cut. 
Uncut  stalks  are  in  a  very  ineonvenient  condi¬ 
tion  for  feeding  animals  of  any  kind.  There  is 
considerable  nourishment  in  them  after  the 
leaves  have  been  eaten  off,  whieh  sheep  and 
neat  cattle  lose,  if  they  are  not  cut  so  that  they 
can  take,  them  readily  between  their  grinders. 

It  is  not  necessary  to  cut  stalks  as  short  as 
some  persons  have  recommended,  in  order  to 
have  animals  eat  them  with  avidity.  For  four¬ 
teen  years  the  writer  has  been  aceustomed  to 
cut  all  his  corn  stalks  with  a  cutter  driven  by 
liorse-poAver,  and  for  several  years  some  were 
cut  about  half  an  inch  long,  though  for  the  most 
part  two  inches  was  the  usual  length  unless 
they  were  very  large,  and  to  be  fed  to  sheep. 
Heat  cattle  and  horses  Avill  eat  them  quite  as 
well  Avhen  cut  two  inches  as  if  half  an  ineh 
long.  And  it  is  much  safer  to  cut  them  two 
inches  long  than  half  an  inch,  because  when 
short,  hard  pieees  are  often  crowded  endAvise 
between  the  teeth  of  animals,  and  splinters  of 
the  hard  coating,  Avhich  is  almost  like  glass  for 
hardness,  Avill  wound  the  gums,  making  the 
mouths  so  sore  that  animals  will  sometimes 
suffer  with  hunger  before  they  will  venture  to 
eat  cut  stalks.  Moreover,  it  is  highly  probable 
that  these  short,  flinty  chips  with  thin  sharp 
edges,  injure  the  intestines. 


Jack-Screws— Various  Uses. 


All  are  more  or  less  familiar  with  the  use 
of  Jaek-screws  in  raising  buildings,  and  for 
other  operations,  where  a  strong  lifting  power 
is  demanded.  For  ordinary  farm  use  they 
are  better  used  in  pairs  than  singly,  beeause  they 
stand  so  much  firmer  and  are  so  much  more 
easily  adapted  to  the  various  purposes  for  Avhich 
i  they  are  needed.  We  figure  a  pair  of  Avooden 


ones  of  about  the  following  dimensions :  The 
extreme  length  is  about  3  feet,  the  heads  being 
8  inches  long  and  of  about  the  same  thickness. 
The  shafts  are  4J-  to  5  inches  in  diameter.  The 
nut-block  is  of  hard  wood  (maple  or  beach),  4 
feet  long,  10  inches  wide  and  5  inches  thick. 
The  ends  of  the  screws  are  round,  that  is  hemi¬ 
spherical,  and  depressions  about  half  an  inch 
deep  for  them  to  turn  in  are  made  in  the  strong  2  i 
or  3-inch  hardwood  plank  Avhich  rests  upon  the 
ground.  Such  a  pair  of  screws  may  be  procured 
in  most  of  our  cities  and  large  villages,  at  hard- 
Avare  stores  or  machine  shops,  or  made  to  order. 


Such  a  pair  of  screws  are  much  more  con- 


JACK  SCREWS. 


venient  for  raising  a  corner,  side,  or  middle  of  a 
building,  than  one  or  moi'e  single  screws  could 
be,  for,  by  placing  them  upon  the  ground,  a  strong- 
plank  or  timber  of  any  desired  length,  even  20 
feet  or  more,  may  be  set  on  the  nut-block,  and 
thus  the  part  over  head  may  be  raised  without 
using  any  blocking  for  the  screws  to  rest  upon. 
By  a  little  contrivance  these  screws  may  be  used 
for  raising  large  trees  for  transplanting,  having 
balls  of  frozen  earth  encasing  their  roots.  They 
will  be  found  equally  convenient  for  lifting 
any  rocks  that  a  chain  may  be  put  around,  or 
logs  too  heavy  to  be  moved  Avith  common  levers. 

During  the  past  season  we  have  had  several 
inquiries  for  a  cheap  and  efficient  stump-puller. 
Where  great  expedition  is  not  required,  a  good 
pair  of  Jack  screws  Avith  a  strong  spar,  a  power¬ 
ful  chain,  and  suitable  blocking,  are  all  that  is 
necessary.  The  chain,  which  should  be  about 
10  to  12  feet  long,  may  usually  be  obtained  at 
hardware  or  farm-implement  stores  in  our  cities 
or  large  villages ;  or  second-hand  chains,  almost 
as  good  as  new,  may  often  be  found  at  seaports, 
and  if  provided  with  hooks,  they  will  answer 
an  excellent  purpose. 

The  manner  of  operating  this  stump-puller  is, 
to  dig  under  a  large  root  of  the  stump,  and 
fasten  the  chain  beneath  the  root  and  over  the 
middle  of  the  timber,  which  should  rest  on  the 
top  of  the  stump.  The  stick  may  be  14  or  more 
feet  long,  and  8  or  10  inches  in  diameter.  Then 
set  the  screws  under  one  end  and  work  them 
until  the  nut  is  run  up  to  the  heads.  Hext 
block  up  that  end  of  the  timber,  and  put  the 
screws  under  the  other.  When  a  stump  is  firm¬ 
ly  rooted,  and  starts  hard,  it  may  be  necessary 
to  dig  around  and  cut  off  some  of  the  large  roots, 
below  the  surface  of  the  ground.  Sometimes 
a  few  smart  blows  with  a  heavy  sledge  against 
the  sides  of  large  roots  will  jar  them  loose,  Avhen 
the  stump  will  rise  Avith  comparative  ease.  A 
blow  downwards  Avill  often  break  a  strong  chain. 
An  iron  Jack  screw  working  in  a  socket  or 
square  block,  may  be  used  in  place  of  a  pair  of 
AVOoden  ones,  by  flattening  a  portion  of  the 
under  side  of  the  ends  of  the  Umber.  This 
stump-puller  may  be  easily  worked  by  one  man, 
who  will  be  able  to  take  out  more  stumps  in  a 
day,  in  proportion  to  the  force  emplo3'ed,  than 
could  be  extracted  by  a  large  machine  requir¬ 
ing  a  team  or  two,  and  several  men  to  Avork  it. 


373 


AMERICAN  ACRIOULTURIST. 


[Decembeb, 


How  to,  and  How  not  to  Fell  Timber. 

Large  trees  of  valuable  timber  are  sometimes 
seriously  injured  by  splitting  when  they  fall, 
simply  because  those  who  cut  them  clown  do 
not  know  how  to  do  it  well.  We  have  had  a 
sketch  engraved  showing  a  large  stump  and  tree, 
which  was  badly  damaged  in  the  felling,  and 
another  well  cut  and  ready  to  fall.  Almost 
every  one  who  has  been  among  the  wood  chop¬ 
pers,  w’hen  they  have  felled  large  trees  of  tough 
timber,  will  recollect  having  seen  the  “  but  logs” 
of  many  trees  split,  as  seen  in  the  sketch, 
and  the  long  splinters  remaining  on  the  stump, 
which  were  pulled  out  of  the  tree,  are  very  com¬ 
mon.  When  a  tree  is  designed  for  fire-wood,  it 
is  of  no  importance  to  fell  it  without  damage ; 
but  when  every  foot  in  length  is  valued  at  $1.00 
or  more,  it  is  of  prime  importance  to  know  how 
to  cut  it  down  without  damaging  the  but  log. 

When  a  large  tree  stands  perpendicularly,  brace 
it  on  two  sides,  as  represented,  with  long,  stilF 
poles,  having  the  lower  ends  secured  by  wide 
stakes.  If  the  wind  does  not  blow,  a  large  tree 
may  bo  cut  nearly  off  before  it  falls.  The  way 
is  to  leave  a  small  strip  on  each  side  of  the  tree, 
while  at  the  middle  it  is  cut  entirely  through, 
as  represented.  When  a  tree  standing  as  shown 
in  the  figure,  is  ready  to  fall,  remove  one  of  the 
braces  by  prying  out  the  lower  end  with  a  hand¬ 
spike,  and  it  will  come  down  without  any  da¬ 
mage.  When  a  tree  leans,  for  example,  to  the 
norlu  or  south,  it  should  always  be  cut  to  fall 
east  or  west,  and  always  if  possible,  at  right 
angles  to  the  way  it  leans.  If  cut  to  fall  the 
way  it  leans,  there  is  great  danger  that  it  will 
split  at  the  but.  It  is  often  desirable  to  have  a 
tree  fall  in  a  certain  place,  though  it  leans  in  an 
opposite  direction.  To  do  this,  l  isten  a  chain 
or  strong  rope  to  the  body,  10  or  20  feet  from 
the  ground,  and  make  the  other  end  fast  to  the 
short  end  of  a  long  lever.  Then  fasten  another 
chain  to  the  lever,  some  3  or  4  feet  from  this 
end,  and  hitch  it  to  some  tree,  stump  or  post 
standing  near,  and  in  the  right  direction.  Fasten 
the  long  end  of  the  lever,  so  as  to  hold  the 
chain  taut-  and  the  tree  in  its  place  till  it  is  cut 
almost  off,  and  then  a  team  drawing  at  the  long 
end,  will  pull  the  tree  over  where  it  is  desir¬ 
able  to  have  it  fall.  A  system  of  pulleys  or  a 
tackle,  in  which  the  rope  is  reeved  through 
double  and  triple  blocks,  will  subserve  the  pur¬ 
pose  of  a  lever.  When  it  is  desirable  to  have 
a  large  tree  fall  in  a  certain  dmection,  let  the 
kerf  on  the  side  where  it  is  to  fall  be  cut  deeper, 
and  2  to  G  inches  lower  than  that  on  the  op¬ 
posite  side.  If  a  large  tree  be  cut  nearly  off 


on  one  side,  it  will 
usually  fall  on 
that  side  of  the 
stump.  For  this 
reason,  if  a  longer 
and  deeper  kerf 
be  made  on  one 
side  of  a  tree  than 
on  the  other,  and 
the  small  one  a 
few  inches  higher 
than  the  large 
one,  it  will  be 
easy  to  make  a 
large  tree  fall  in 
the  desired  direc¬ 
tion  without  the 
aid  of  braces,  or 
chains.  A  tree 
may  sometimes  be 
sawed  down  quite 
as  advantageous¬ 
ly  as  felled  with  an  ax,  if  a  saw  is  in  good  order. 
To  facilitate  starting  a  saw  in  the  right  direc¬ 
tion,  bore  a  hole  horizontally  into  the  tree  about 
two  inches  deep,  and  drive  in  a  wooden  pin,  on 
which  the  blade  of  the  saw  may  rest,  until  the 
kerf  is  sufficiently  deep  to  steady  it.  Decide 
where  the  tree  is  to  be  felled,  and  saw  the  side 
in  that  direction  half  off  first,  then  saw  the  op¬ 
posite  side.  Two  broad  and  thin  iron  wedges 
should  be  driven  after  the  saw  into  the  kerf,  to 
prevent  the  saw  being  pinched  so  tightly  that  it 
cannot  be  worked  nor  drawn  out.  The  ears  on 
the  end  of  a  saw  for  felling  timber  should  be  se¬ 
cured  with  bolts,  so  that  one  may  be  removed, 
and  the  saw  withdrawn,  when  it  is  difficult  to 
knock  out  the  wedges  from  the  kerf. 


A  Convenient  Wood  Holder. 


A  subscriber  of  the  Agriculturist,  whose  name 
we  have  lost,  described  to  us  recently  in  con¬ 
versation  a  contrivance  for  holding  wood  for 
splitting,  which  we  here  illustrate.  It  consists 
simply  of  a  portion  of  a  hollaw  log  sawed  off 
squarely,  about  one  foot  long,  and  placed  on  one 
end  for  holding  the  wood  while  it  is  being  split 
into  small  sticks.  Such  a  contrivance  saves 
much  labor,  as  it  keeps  the  sticks  erect,  so  that 
a  workman  may  swing  his  ax  freely ;  whereas, 
when  he  has  nothing  to  hold  his  wood  in  place, 
much  time  must  be  spent  in  picking  up  and  ad¬ 
justing  the  billets  to  be  split.  To  prevent  the 
numerous  blows  in  one  place  from  splitting 
such  a  holder,  pin  a  half-round  stick  on  the 
upper  end,  against  which  the  ax  may  strike. 


Snow  Tools.  ■ 

It  is  not  because  we  are  afraid  of  work  that 
we  advocate  making  all  kinds  of  work  easier. 
When,  as  ambitious  boys,  we  came  into  the 
house  staggering  under  the  weight  of  a  big  arm¬ 
ful  of  wood,  perhaps  dropping  a  stick  or  two, 
we  were  told  such  was  “a  lazy  man’s  load.”  It 
was  indeed,  easier  to  fetch  a  big  load  once  than 


to  go  twice,  but  there  was  no  laziness  in  that. 
On  the  same  principle  we  shovel  snow  with  a 
shovel  large  enough  to  make  heavy  work  of 
what  would  be  like  “  beating  the  air,”  if  we  used 
a  common  square  shovel.  We  see  with  surprise 
the  very  common  use  of  inconvenient  tools  for 
moving  snow,  making  paths,  etc.,  and  figure  a 
few  very  simple  ones,  which  will  commend 
themselves  to  every  man  who  has  this  work  to 
do.  Hammer  and  nails,  a  saw,  a  drawing-knife, 
a  jack-plane,  and  a  scratch-awl,  with  a  few 
boards  and  pieces  of  wood,  are  all  that  are 
needed,  to  enable  any  one  to  make  the  imple¬ 
ments  we  describe,  and  any  one  can  do  it. 

The  Snow- Push  (fig.  1).  This  is  a  very  con¬ 
venient  tool  to  clear  paths  after  light  falls  of 
snow,  or  when  snow  changes  to  rain,  which  is 
soaked  up  by  the  snow.  It  is  made  by  inserting 


a  handle  5  or  6  feet  long  in  a  head  of  oak  or 
other  hard  wood,  1  inch  thick,  14  inches  long 
and  5  wide.  To  prevent  it  from  working 
loose,  it.  may  be  braced  with  stout  wire.  In 
use,  the  snow  is  shoved  along  before  it. 

The  Snow  Shovel  (fig.  2)  is  made  of  pine; 
the  blade  of  I  inch  stuff,  20  inches  long  and  14 
or  16  wide,  tapering  to  an  edge  over  which  is 
turned,  and  tacked,  a  strip  jf  tin,  having  a 
width  of  li  or  2  inches  on  each  side.  A  back, 
perpendicular  to  the  blade  is  nailed  on,  and  this 
has  a  slot  to  receive  the  handle,  which  is  set  on 
at  an  angle  of  about  20  degrees.  It  is  about  4 
feet  long,  and  strongly  screwed  to  the  blade  and 
to  the  back  piece.  By  some  a  shorter  handle  is 
preferred,  furnished  with  a  grip-piece  at  the  end. 

The  Snow  Plato  (fig.  3).  There  ought  to  be 
somebody  in  every  neighborhood,  who  is  public 
spirited  enough  to  make  and  use  a  snow  plow, 
not  for  his  own  family  only,  but  for  the  general 
good.  The  con- 
venienceofhav- 
ing  good,  wide 
paths  aM^clear- 
ed  by  horse 
power,  and  al¬ 
most  as  fast  as 
Dobbin  will 
trot,  about  the 
farm  buildings, 
etc.,  can  hard¬ 
ly  be  estimat¬ 
ed.  When  this 
work  is  done, 
a  man  can  set 
the  neighbor-^ 
hood  in  a  state 
of  pleasant 
good  feeling,  if 
he  drives  about 
for  half  an 
hour,  leaving  behind  liim  everywhere  a  good 
walk  in  the  deep  snow,  and  cross-walks  where 
they  are  needed.  The  school,  the  church, 
and  the  post-office  should  receive  especial  at¬ 
tention,  so  that  tlie  children  and  women  may 
conveniently  get  about.  Other  men  with  their 
shovels  will  make  the  connections  and  put  the 
finishing  touches,  and  soon  too  the  street  will 


Fig.  2.— SNOW  SHOVEL. 


18G5.j 


AMERICAN  AaRIOULTURIST, 


873 


♦  Fig.  3.— SNOW  PLOW. 

be  quite  lively  with  people  running  here  and 
there.  The  snow  plow  figured,  is  thus  made  : 
The  side  pieces  are  inch  oak  or  chestnut 
stuff,  12  inches  wide  and  4  feet  long,  chamfered 
off  at  the  forward  ends,  so  as  to  come  together 
at  an  edge,  when  the  rear  ends  are  a  little  more 
than  4  feet  apart.  They  are  braced  apart  by  a  2  x  3 
inch  stud,  which  is  mortised  in.  A  6-inch  cleat 
is  nailed  upon  each  board  on  the  inside  near  the 
mortise.  The  horse  may  be  attached  by  a  clevis, 
the  bolt  of  which  goes  through  the  edge,  as 
shown,  or  by  a  chain  fastened  to  a  long  bolt  or 
pin  run  through  a  few  inches  back  from  the 
front  edge.  A  board  on  the  top  answers  for  the 
driver  to  sit  or  stand  upon,  and  the  ropes  behind 
enable  him  to  lift  the  plow  over  bad  places, 
stones,  etc.,  to  turn  it  on  one  edge,  to  guide  it, 
or  pull  it  back.  A  sort  of  share  may  be  at¬ 
tached  in  front,  as  shown  in  fig.  3,  and  in  many 
cases  will  be  found  very  useful,  especially  where 
the  snow  has  been  trodden  somewhat,  or  where 
it  is  very  moist  and  packs  in  front  of  the  plow. 
It  requires  rather  nice  sawing  or  work  with  the 
drawing-knife  to  make  a  good  job  of  puttingon 
this  attachment.  It  should  be  well  nailed  on, 
and  it  adds  strength  and  durability  to  the  plow. 


Water,  Useful  and  Ornamental. 


That  was  a  good  idea  of  the  Turk  who,  when 
dying,  provided  for  the  construction  of  a  foun¬ 
tain,  on  the  sides  of  which  was  carved  a 
request  for  the  prayers  of  all  who  should 
drink  from  it.  In  the  town  of  Cazenovia, 

N.  Y.,  a  wealthy  and  liberal  gentleman, 
has  constructed  drinking-troughs  of  grau- 
ite,  on  every  highway  leading  intd  the 
village,  for  the  use  of  horses  and  cattle. 

The  water  is  brought  in  pine  logs  from 
cool  springs  in  the  neighboring  hills,  and 
rising  into  the  center  of  stone  structures 
by  the  road-side,  pours  through  a  copper 
pipe  into  the  troughs  below,  and  a  cup 
chained  to  each  provides  for  the  wants 
of  thirsty  travelers.  The  simple  inscrip¬ 
tion,  “  L.  L  ,”  carved  on  each  fountain, 
perpetuates  the  memory  of  the  benevo¬ 
lent  Mr.  Ledyard  Lincklaen.. — A  friend 
in  Cazenovia  furnishes  at  our  request  a 
sketch  of  one  of  these  fountains,  which 
we  have 'had  engraved.  The  structure 
consists  of  a  base,  a  back  stone,  and  a 
stone  containing  the  trough.  It  is  about 
5  feet  high,  4  feet  wide,  and  projects 
about  3  feet.  The  trough  is  4  inches  deep, 
and  the  waste  water  fiows  off  at  the  back. 

Do  we  make  all  provision  as  we  should 
for  furnishing  good  and  abundant  water  for  our 
homes  ?  Pure  water  is  essential  to  the  health  of 
man  and  beast.  Horses  and  cattle  always  prefer 
the  water  of  springs  and  running  streams  to  the 
“hard  water”  of  our  wells.  In  limestone  re¬ 
gions,  it  would  doubtless  be  healthier  for  man 


to  drink  pure  rain  water  than  that  of 
wells.  Cisterns  can  be  so  built  as  to 
filter  the  water  through  gravel  and  char¬ 
coal,  and  render  it  as  pure  as  when 
dropping  from  the  clouds.  The  amount 
of  water  falling  on  our  roofs  annually 
is  greater  than  we  are  wont  to  suppose. 
A  roof  ten  feet  square  will  furnish  sev¬ 
enty  barrels  a  year.  A  roof  thirty  feet 
by  forty,  gives  864  barrels  a  year,  i.  e., 
more  than  two  barrels  a  day  for  every 
P  day  of  the  year !  If  our  cisterns  are 
large  enough  we  shall  never  lack  water. 
The  labor  and  expense  of  bringing  water 
from  springs  on  hillsides  is  not  so  great  as 
many  imagine.  In  the  country,  ordinarily,  noth¬ 
ing  is  better  for  this  purpose  than  wood,  which 
when  well  bored  and  properly  put  together  and 
laid  below  frost,  will  last  from  ten  to  twenty 
years.  The  Water  Kam,  when  well  put  up  and 
managed,  is  a  useful  machine.  The  relative 
proportion  of  the 
supply  and  deliv¬ 
ery  varies  with 
the  hight  of  the 
fall  and  the  ele¬ 
vation  to  be  over¬ 
come.  As  a  gen¬ 
eral  rule,  one  sev¬ 
enth  part  of  the 
water  may  be 
forced  to  5  times 
the  hight  of  the 
fall.  A  fall  of 
eighteen  inches 
with  supply  pipe 
one  inch  in  diam¬ 
eter,  will  raise 

water  in  a  half  inch  pipe  twenty  feet.  A  fall  of 
four  feet  from  the  spring  will  deliver  three  and- 
a-quarter  gallons  every  ten  minutes  at  the  hight 
of  nineteen  feet  above  the  Ram.  (A  minute 
description  of  the  Hydraulic  Ram,  and  its  ope¬ 
ration,  fully  illustrated,  maybe  found  in  the  No¬ 
vember  AgrrfcMWwns#,  1858,  Vol.  XVIH,p.  324-5. 

Every  farm  yard  should  have,  if  possible,  its 
penstock  running  day  and  night  with  pure 


with  an  abundance  of  pure  water.  Wooden 
water  pipes  are  safer  than  lead,  usually  better 
than  iron,  and  are  generally  more  accessible. 


The  Use  of  the  Single  Pulley  in  Moving 
Heavy  Loads. 

Farmers  need  a  correct  understanding  of  the 
principles  of  draught ;  their  teams  are  required 
to  haul  a  great  variety  of  articles,  and  it  is 
highly  important  to  know  how  to  economize 
time  and  force  most  advantageously.  There  are 
frequently  large  logs  or  heavy  stones  to  be 
drawn  a  short  distance,  which  cannot  be  moved 
wdth  a  single  team  when  hitched  directly  to 
them,  but  they  may  be  moved  with  compara¬ 
tive  ease  by  means  of  a  single  pulley.  By- 
drawing  upon  one  end  of  a  rope,  passing 
around  a  pulley  attached  to  a  log,  as  shown  by 
the  figure,  while  the  other  end  of  the  long  rope 


DRINKING  FOUNTAIN  AT  CAZENOVIA,  N.  T. 

spring  water.  Where  springs  are  not  within 
reach,  water  may  be  raised  from  wells  or  cis¬ 
terns  into  tanks  in  the  upper  lofts  of  barns  or 
Other  buildings,  by  windmills  or  force-pumps. 
But  whatever  be  the  means  employed,  every 
farmstead  and  every  house  should  be  provided 


USE  OP  SINGLE  PULLET. 

is  made  fast  to  a  stake  or  tree,  one  horse  will 
draw  a  log  that  two  horses  cannot  move,  directly. 
The  reason  for  this  is  that  the  log  will  move 
only  half  as  fast  as  the  horse ;  consequently  the 
horse  is  exerting  his  force  during  twice  as 
long  a  time,  and  so,  of  course  exerts  twice 
as  much  force.  Now,  if  the  pulley  block  be 
placed  at  a  tree,  or  post,  w'hile  one  end  of  a  rope 
passing  through  it  is  hitched  to  the  log,  (the 
team  drawing  at  the  other  end,)  the  unit¬ 
ed  force  of  three  horses  will  probably 
not  move  a  log  that  might  be  hauled 
by  one  horse,  were  the  pulley  near  the 
log.  The  tackle  in  this  case  would  not 
only  be  of  no  advantage,  but  a  decided 
disadvantage.  The  team  might  better  be 
hitched  directly  to  the  log,  for  when  the 
pulley  is  fixed,  the  weight  moves  just  as 
fast  as  the  team. — There  are  many  other 
places  where  a  rope  and  a  single  pul¬ 
ley  may  be  used  to  a  great  advantage. 
A  heavy  stone,  that  four  horses  could  not 
move  by  a  straight  pull,  may  be  drawn 
from  a  stone  quarry  with  ease  with  two 
horses,  by  using  a  rope  and  one  pulley. 
Should  a  teamster  get  into  a  place  with 
a  heavy  load,  where  four  horses  could 
not  haul  it  out,  two  horses,  with  a  pul¬ 
ley  at  the  end  of  the  w'agon  tongue  draw¬ 
ing  by  a  rope,  one  end  of  which  is 
hitched  to  a  fence-post  or  stake,  might 
start  it  with  ease.  Teamsters  traveling 
where  their  wagons  are  liable  to  sink 
in  deep  ruts,  as  is  sometimes  the  case, 
especially  in  new  countries,  would  often 
save  themselves  a  great  deal  of  trouble  and 
much  time,  if  they  would  carry  with  them  a 
60-fathom  l-iuch  rope,  and  a  block  to  match,  to 
draw  out  their  loads  in  case  they  “mire.” 
Many  other  applications  of  the  pulley  will  read¬ 
ily  suggest  themselves  to  the  reader. 


374 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


An  Education  Good  Enough  for  a  Earmer. 

The  best  education  is  none  too  good.  Who 
sets  out  second-rate  fruit,  if  he  can  get  first-rate  ? 
or  who  sows  poor  wheat  if  he  can  get  the  best  ? 
What  is  the  best  education  that  a  Farmer  can 
have?  Truly,  that  which  will  fit  him  for  most 
successfully  tilling  the  soil,  for  business  inter¬ 
course  with  men,  for  taking  a  creditable 
position  in  society,  for  serving  best  his  fel- 
lowmen  and  honoring  his  God.  To  help 
ns  to  decide  what  course  of  mental  culture— ^ 
for  that  is  what  we  generally  mean  by  educa¬ 
tion, — will  best  accomplish  these  ends,  let  us  see 
what  men  are  the  best  farmers,  and  what  their 
education  has  been.  As  a  general  thing,  wo 
believe  that  among  those  farmers  who  work  with 
their  own  hands  more  or  less,  and  are  not  mere¬ 
ly  proprietors  of  estates  which  they  may  or  may 
not  personally  manage, — those  not  bred  to  the 
business  of  farming,  are  by  far  most  successful. 
Many  of  them  were  born  on  the  farm,  and  oth¬ 
ers  took  to  farming  after  learning  other  busi¬ 
ness.  Is  then  the  education  which  the  farmer- 
boy  picks  up  after  he  leaves  the  farm,  while  he 
is  at  work  in  the  machine  shop,  shoving  the 
jack-plane,  or  behind  the  counter,  the  best  he 
can  have  ?  No,  indeed ;  but  he  gains  something 
which  makes  him  a  better  farmer  than  his  neigh¬ 
bors.  Premising  that  he  would  not  have  re¬ 
turned  to  farming,  or  taken  it  up  if  he  had  not 
a  love  for  it,  he  has  probably  gained,  in  the 
shop  or  store,  —First,  a  j  ust  estimate  of  the  val¬ 
ue  of  accurate  accounts,  of  knowing  the  pecu¬ 
niary  success  or  failure  of  the  simplest  ventures ; 
Second,  a  high  estimation  of  the  value  of  knowl¬ 
edge  of  one’s  business,  which  makes  him  read 
and  think,  as  well  as  work :  Third,  liberality  in 
regal’d  to  the  views  and  opinions  of  others.  It 
has  made  him  quick  witted  also,  and  not  set  in 
his  own  way.  Besides,  contact  with  men  has 
given  him  confidence  in  himself  when  he  knows 
where  he  stands,  and  a  lack  of  confidence  when 
he  is  not  sure  of  his  ground.  Such  a  man  will 
always  succeed  as  a  farmer.  He  may  be  dread¬ 
fully  green  for  a  3’ear  or  two,  but  in  a  short 
time  he  will  beat  the  old  farmers  out  and  out. 
If  our  readers  will  testify,  they  w’iirconfirm  what 
we  saj",  and  point  out  neighbors  of  theirs  that 
they  used  to  laugh  at  for  their  blunders  and 
cityfied  farming,  which,  perhaps,  was  half  book 
farmiug  and  half  guesswork,  who  now  are  be¬ 
yond  being  laughed  at ;  or  at  least  the  laugh  is 
on  the  other  side.  These  men  have  gained 
their  farming  education  by  the  hardest.  Our 
boys  ought  to  have  a  better  chance. 

The  Home  School  is  where  the  boy  gets  his 
first  notions  and  principles,  and  these  will  have 
their  effect  upon  him  to  the  day  of  his  death. 

The  Common  School  is  w’here  the  foundations 
are  laid  of  whatever  literary  or  book  education 
the  boy  ever  gains,  together  with  the  establish¬ 
ment  of  correct  habits  of  study  and  thought,  a 
taste  for  mathematics,  quickness  at  figures,  etc. 

The  High  School,  whether  it  be  Acadcmj’', 
College,  or  Agricultural  College,  is  supposed  to 
bring  the  young  man  forward  to  the  threshhokl 
of  mature  life  with  knowledge  enough  to  ena¬ 
ble  him  to  make  a  good  start,  and  with  such 
habits  of  study  and  thought  that  he  will  always 
value  knowledge  and  seek  it.  Finally  there  is  — 

The  School  of  Experience,  in  which  we  are  all 
pupils  and  always  have  been,  from  the  time  we 
first  learned  we  could  not  teach  the  moon,  and 
that  the  candle-flame  was  too  hot  a  place  for 
our  fingers.  It  is  in  the  school  of  e.xperiencc 
that  men  educate  themselves  in  their  judg¬ 


ment  of  probabilities,  in  the  estimation  of  men 
for  what  they  are  worth,  and  in  many  other 
things  w'hich  have  a  great  influence  on  their 
success  or  failure,  superiority  or  mediocrity  in 
whatever  business  they  follow. 

This  last  excepted,  the  other  schools  mention- 
tioned  are  named  in  order  of  their  importance 
in  forming  character  and  developing  the  mind. 
The  boy  should  have  the  best  instruction  where 
and  when  this  development  takes  place.  The 
best  teachers  are  by  no  means  those  who 
know  the  most,  they  are  those  who  inspire  the 
child,  or  youth,  with  a  desire  to  do  best,  and  to 
learn  most,  those  who  guide  the  young  mind 
into  those  channels  in  which  it  can  and  will 
pursue  useful  knowledge  with  zest.  A  child  of 
fourteen  well  started,  will  do  well  under  poor 
teachers,  after  that.  We  propose  to  discuss 
these  three  schools  in  other  articles, 

Western  Agriculture. 

“C.  S.  W.,”  a  “York  State  Farmer”  and 
pioneer  in  Scott  County,  Iowa,  sends  to  the 
American  Agriculturist  his  views: 

“  Agriculture  in  Iowa  differs  materially  in  all 
its  departments  from  the  long  established  sys¬ 
tems  of  the  Eastern  States.  Theoretical  farm¬ 
ing  finds  little  encouragement  here  0;  ourmost 
successful  and  intelligent  farmers  are  those 
who  have  in  a  general  way  discarded  theories, 
and  applied  themselves  to  a  faithful  study  of 
the  nature  and  characteristics  of  the  soil. 
Within  the  past  ten  years  our  farmers  have 
gradually  adopted  the  opinion  that  our  soil  has 
its  peculiar  and  fixed  constitution,  and  that  it  is 
essential  to  acquaint  ourselves  with  its  local 
law's.  We  have  but  little  faith  in  any  of  the 
popular  disquisitions  on  acids  and  alkalies,  and 
how  to  preserve  the  equipoise  of  their  relations, 
for  we  daily  discover  the  abundance  of  in¬ 
consistences  in  theories  originating  in  regions 
possessing  few  features  in  common  with  our 
own.  Any  of  our  old  settlers  w’ould  give  you 
a  series  of  facts  that  would  upset  a  multitude  of 
the  ideas  advanced  by  Liebig,  Mechi,  etc.  My 
ow’n  farm  is  probably  one  of  the  oldest  in  the 
State,  and  I  have  fields  that  have  been  almost 
uninterruptedly  cultivated  in  corn  for  thirty- 
three  3'ears,  and  yet  the  annual  yield,  by  actual 
measurement,  ranges  from  75  to  100  bushels  [of 
ears,  no  doubt.  Ed.]  per  acre.  (-)  This  year  the 
stalks  average  over  eleven  feet  in  hight,  and  the 
corn  yield  promises  to  exceed  its  usual  average. 
The  laud  is  high  and  drj',  and  w’as  never  ma¬ 
nured.  And  this  is  the  usual,  I  might  say  uni¬ 
versal,  fertility  of  low’a  soil.  ‘  Gradual  im¬ 
poverishment  ’  is  very  slow  in  its  operation 
here.  Of  late  years  w'C  are  beginning  to  believe 
that  Iowa  soil  is  rich  in  the  elements  that  con¬ 
tribute  to  fruit  growing,  and  orchards  are  be¬ 
coming  popular,  and  are  almost  invariably  suc¬ 
cessful.  We  get  apples  in  eight  years  after 
planting  the  seed,  or  more  practically  speaking, 
standard  fruit-trees,  as  usually  sent  out  from  the 
nurseries,  bear  fruit  within  four  years,  and  an 
orchard  six  years  old  yields  a  profitable  crop. 
Four  years’  grow'th,  with  cultivation,  gives  our 
fruit-trees  a  diameter  of  from  three  to  five  inches. 
It  is,  however,  noticeable  that  few  of  the  East¬ 
ern  varieties  retain  their  prominent  characteris¬ 
tics  when  grown  here.  The  greenings  and  pip¬ 
pins  of  ‘old  York  State,’  degenerate  into  very 
ordinary  fruit  in  Iowa.  But  we  have  our  own 
peculiar  apples  that  leave  us  little  cause  to  re¬ 
gret  that  grafts  from  the  old  homesteads  of  our 
youth,  do  not  give  us  the  fruit  that  tasted  so 
well  in  our  boyhood.  Systematic  and  judicious 


[December, 


land  culture  in  Iowa  is  richly  rew'arded,  and  our 
best  farmers  are  those  who,  on  the  sterile  fields 
of  their  former  homes,  w’ere  forced  to  acquire 
habits  of  industry,  observation  and  reflection. 
These  invariably  meet  success  in  the  West,  and 
it  is  this  fact  that  offers  so  much  encouragement 
to  the  immigration  of  our  Eastern  friends.  It 
is  strange  that  more  of  the  surplus  population 
of  the  large  cities  do  not  seek  the  West,  with 
its  certainty  of  comfortable  homes  and  a  fair 
chance  for  M'ealth.  A  New  Yorker  myself, 

I  know  how  many  intelligent  mechanics,  busi¬ 
ness  men,  small  capitalists,  etc.,  are  wasting  life  ■ 
there,  struggling  for  the  daily  bread  and  assured 
welfare,  that  are  so  easily  obtaflaed  in  Iowa  f) ; 
obtained  too,  without  the  sacrifice  of  any  East¬ 
ern  privilege,  for  churches,  schools,  and  news¬ 
papers  here  abound,  and  the  Agriculturist  sheds 
its  kindly  rays  on  us  within  forty-eight  hours 
after  its  issue  in  New  York.” 

[We  cannot  let  our  correspondent  have  his 
say  without  adding  a  word.  (1)  All  men  who 
cultivate  the  soil  have  some  sort  of  theories,  at 
least  a  kind  of  reasoning  founded  on  guesswork ; 
and  the  men  who  declaim  loudest  against 
theories  have  the  most  of  these  very  peculiar 
kinds.  Even  Iowa  farmers,  plow  and  sow, 
raise  grain  and  roots,  and  grass,  and  feed  cattle 
and  sheep ;  and  at  the  East  we  do  so  too. 
Practice  and  facts  never  hurt  a  good  theory  yet, 
and  never  will.  The  experience  of  10  or  33 
years  in  Iowa  and  other  States  may  show  that 
the  land  is  not  exhausted  yet.  There  is  land  in 
Connecticut  that  has  been  cropped  longer  than 
that,  without  exhausting  it,  and  so  there  is  in  Eng¬ 
land. — This  does  not  militate  against  any  correct 
theory  however.  Continual  cropping  does  tend 
to  impoverish  the  soil.  The  larger  the  crops,  the 
more  rapid  the  impoverishment.  Manuring  does 
maintain  the  fertility  of  the  poorest  land,  and  it 
increases  and  improves  the  crops  upon  the  best 
natural  soils. — (2)  Good  farmers  out  West  may  be 
entirely  satisfied  with  75  or  100  bushels  of  ears  per 
acre,  but  we  of  the  East  do  not  consider  it  much. 
When  we  get  80  or  100  bushels  of  shelled  corn 
measured  in  November,  then  we  begin  to  brag. 
(3)  C.  S.  W.  can  hardly  be  better  informed  about 
the  condition  of  Eastern  mechanics,  etc.,  and 
the  wages  they  are  getting,  than  he  is  in  regard 
to  the  theories  of  acids  and  alkalis  he  has  such 
a  horror  of ;  for  the  West  with  all  its  fertility 
as  a  general  rule  presents  few  or  no  inducements 
to  the  classes  of  persons  named,  which  will 
compare  at  all  with  the  pecuniary  prospects 
presented  here.  But  there  are  other  classes — 
enterprising  young  farmers,  with  capital,  and 
without,  foreigners  not  mechanics,  and  all  sorts 
of  men  without  trades.  Such  men  will  usually 
better  themselves  by  going  West,  or  South. — Ed. 

I  mi  Jil^i  III-- 

A  Private  Park  with  Five  Acres  of  Land. 


In  the  unequal  distribution  of  tastes,  it  often 
happens  that  those  who  are  best  fitted  to  enjoy 
rural  life,  are  the  least  able  to  do  so,  and  many 
a  merchant  or  mechanic  toils  on  in  city  or  vil¬ 
lage  in  the  hope  that  the  time  may  one  day 
come  when  his  desire  for  a  quiet  retreat  may  be 
filled.  How  many  such  have  studied  all  the 
best  w’orks  on  landscape  gardening,  in  anticipa¬ 
tion  of  the  time  when  they  could  lay  out 
grounds  otherwise  than  on  paper.  How  many 
such  have  visited  the  “show  places”  of  the 
wealth}',  where  acres  of  lawn,  miles  of  perfect 
drive,  beautiful  pictures  of  tree  grouping  have 
shown  how  lovely  earth  can  be  made  if  one  only 
has  the  means.  There  is  the  disheartening 
thing  about  the  whole  matter,  that  but  few  can 


I860.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


375 


hope  to  possess  that  fortune  which  an  ample 
and  well  kept  domain  implies.  Fortunately  for 
those  whose  purses  are  not  in  proportion  to 
their  tastes,  Mr.  L.  S.  Haskell,  has  contrived  a 
plan  by  which  one  may  enjoy  all  of  rural  beauty 
that  the  wealthiest  can  encompass,  without  be¬ 
ing  a  millionaire,  and  as  the  plan  upon  which 
he  has  done  this  is  one  which  is  capable  of  im¬ 
itation  elsewhere,  and  is  practicable  upon  a 
much  smaller  scale  than  that  attempted  by  him, 
a  description  will  interest  our  readers. 

Some  ten  years  ago  Mr.  Haskell,  being  im¬ 
pressed  with  the  great  natural  beauty  of  the 
slope  of  Orange  mountain  near,  the  town  of 
Orange,  jST.  J.,  ffurchased  a  tract  of  500  acres, 
"whieh  has  since  been  extended  to  750  acres,  and 
is  now  called  Llewellyn  Park.  The  land  isju- 
diciously  divided  up  into  building  sites  of  from 
5  to  10  acres  each,  while  a  park  of  50  acres  is 
kept  for  the  use  of  the  owners  of  these  sites. 
This  common  park  is  an  irregular  strip  running 
lengthwise  of  the  tract,  easily  accessible  from 
all  the  residences,  and  includes  ravine,  for¬ 
est,  and  lawm  in  pleasing  variety.  Aside  from 
the  grand  old  native  trees,  the  original  occu¬ 
pants  of  the  soil,  many  new  and  valuable  ones 
have  been  introduced.  Great  numbers  of  Kho- 
dodendrons  have  been  planted,  the  rare  and 
slow  growing  kinds  flourishing  with  a  vigor 
and  health  of  foliage  that  we  have  never  seen 
equalled  in  cultivation.  Pine  roads  are  laid 
out  through  the  whole  tract,  and  each  resident 
has  a  stately  approach  to  his  grounds,  the  une¬ 
ven  character  of  the  surface  allowing  one  in  a 
short  drive  to  enjoy  a  great  variety  of  scenery. 
The  beauties  of  the  park  culminate  at  Eagle 
Rock,  an  abrupt  bluff  upon  the  highest  point  of 
the  grounds.  The  view  from  this  point  is  flner 
than  one  would  think  it  possible  to  find  within 
less  than  an  hour’s  ride  of  Hew- York  City.  In¬ 
deed  there  are  few  more  enjoyable  views  to  be 
found  anywhere.  Of  the  thirty  proprietors  who 
have  dwellings  in  the  park,  not  one  has  had  the 
bad  taste  to  put  up  a  fence,  and  after  the  visi¬ 
tor  passes  the  tasteful  gateway  there  is  nothing 
to  remind  him  that  he  is  not  driving  about  the 
extensive  grounds  of  some  princely  manor. 
The  roads  and  other  common  portions  of  the 
park  are  kept  up  by  an  annual  assessment,  the 
amount  of  which  is  determined  by  the  proprie¬ 
tors  themselves,  but  wdiich  is  limited  to  $10  an 
acre.  There  is  also  a  fund  provided  by  setting 
apart  a  portion  of  the  proceeds  of  the  sales  of 
sites,  the  income  of  which  is  for  general  im¬ 
provements.  The  advantage  of  an  associated 
proprietorship  of  this  kind  is,  that  it  enables  one 
of  moderate  means  to  enjoy  surroundings  which 
are  usually  at  the  command  of  only  the  very 
wealthy.  The  owner  of  five  acres,  more  or  less, 
has  as  much  as  he  can  well  improve  by  himself, 
he  has  an  undivided  share  in  50  acres  of  play 
ground,  seven  miles  of  drive,  and  views  which 
can  never  be  obstrueted.  Those  wdio  wish  to 
enjoy  a  few  hours  most  delightfully  should  visit 
this  charming  spot.  The  only  formality  required 
is  to  enter  name  and  residenee  in  a  book  at  the 
gate  keeper’s  lodge.  Every  place  has  not  its  ro¬ 
mantic  mountain  slope,  and  not  many  can  hope 
to  be  so  fortunate  in  the  selection  of  a  site  for 
such  an  enterprise  as  has  Mr.  Haskell,  but  we 
can  not  see  why  every  large  town  or  village 
might  not  have  a  park  upon  a  similar  plan. 
AVere  it  not  that  the  word  is  sometimes  used  in 
an  unpleasant  sense,  we  should  call  it  a  “  com¬ 
munity  park.”  It  is  in  fact,  a  rural  town  where 
each  one  can  have  all  desirable  seclusion  on  his 
own  grounds,  and  contribute  his  share  to  a  fund 
for  the  tasteful  adornment  ot  the  common  domain, 
with  its  drives  and  walks,  to  be  enjoyed  by  all. 


Some  Experiments  in  Potato  Culture. 


In  the  brief  account  of  the  exhibition  of  the 
Penn.  Horticultural  Society,  in  the  Nov.  Acj- 
rioulturist  we  mentioned  a  fine  display  of  pota¬ 
toes  by  A.  AY.  Harrison,  of  Philadelphia.  The 
samples  were  so  excellent  and  the  yield  (stated 
plainly  upon  the  label  of  each  variety)  so  gen¬ 
erally  large,  that  we  applied  to  Mr.  Harrison  for 
an  account  of  his  method  of  cultivation,  which 
he  not  only  cheerfully  furnished,  but  also  gave 
us  a  fine  set  of  specimens,  which  have  for  some 
time  been  on  exhibition  at  our  office.  Mr.  H. 
commenced  his  operations  upon  a  farm  so  much 
impoverished  by  nine  years  of  cultivation  with¬ 
out  manure,  that  two  years  ago  his  first  crop 
of  Peach  Blows  was  only  50  bushels  to  the  acre. 
The  following  are  the  chief  points  in  which  Mr. 
Harrison’s  cultivation  differs  from  the  ordinary : 

The  land  is  plowed,  subsoiled  and  supplied 
with  ordinary  manure  in  the  fall ;  in  the  spring 
it  is  plowed  crosswise,  harrowed  and  rolled  and 
then  marked  out  3  feet  each  way  with  a  corn 
marker.  At  the  intersections  of  the  markings 
one  whole  potato  is  planted  6  inches  deep,  and 
with  it  is  put  a  handful  of  the  following  com¬ 
post:  AYoodashes,  4;  salt,  i  ;  lime,  2;  plaster, 
1 ;  and  superphosphate,  1  part.  A  good  hand¬ 
ful  of  this  to  the  hill  takes  about  50  bushels  to 
the  acre.  The  superphosphate  may  be  of  do¬ 
mestic  production,  or  that  of  some  reliable 
manufacturer,  but  it  is  considered  essential  as  a 
preventive  against  the  attacks  of  the  grub. 
After  planting,  1000  pounds  to  the  acre  of  the 
above  composition  is  sown  broadcast.  The  first 
cultivation  is  up  and  down  each  side  of  tlie 
rows  with  Kno.x’s  cultivator;  afterward  the 
ground  is  worked  twice  with  a  horse-hoe  run  in 
the  opposite  direction.  Three  dressings  are  after¬ 
ward  given  with  the  hand-hoe,  in  all  cases 
avoiding  hilling.  The  harvesting  is  done  wdth 
a  fork.  Over  twent}'-  varieties  of  potatoes  were 
tested,  some  of  them  of  well  known  prolific 
character,  and  others  poor  croppers.  The  to¬ 
tal  yield  of  all  sorts  upon  144  acres  was  2,811 
bushels.  Some  English  kinds  gave  only  40 
bushels  to  the  acre,  while  the  Harrison  yielded 
305  bushels;  Early  Goodrich,  232 ;  Cuzco,  263; 
Monitor,  235 ;  Jackson  White,  196^  Calico,  171 ; 
Garnet  Chili,  130;  Buckeye,  170;  Dalmahoy, 
193;  Goodrich’s  No.  380,  181;  No.  24,  179; 
Seedling  Mercer,  171 ;  Snowball,  161 ;  Gleason, 
157;  Early  Wendell,  95;  Blue  Coat,  86;  Red 
Bird,  47 ;  Early  Handsworth,  41 ;  Race  Horse, 
41.  At  the  head  of  all  varieties  for  every  good 
quality,  Mr.  H.  places  the  Early  Goodrich  and 
the  Harrison.  These  are  both  seedlings  raised 
by  the  late  Mr.  Goodrich,  and  the  last  named 
W'as  so  called  by  him  as  an  acknowledgement 
of  the  interest  manifested  by  Mr.  H.  in  the  ex¬ 
periments  of  Mr.  Goodrich.  The  Monitor  is  an 
enormous  potato,  50  of  which  have  weighed  60 
pounds  and  filled  a  bushel;  it  is  represented 
as  being  solid  and  excellent. 

There  is  nothing  in  the  results  above  given 
which,  on  good  soil,  would  be  a  great  yield, 
and  it  is  only  in  consideration  of  the  impover¬ 
ished  character  of  the  land  that  they  become 
remarkable  as  showing  what  may  be  done  on 
exhausted  soils  by  judicious  manuring,  and  also 
how  much  the  yield  is  afiected  by  the  choice  of 
a  prolific  variety.  Several  samples  of  the  entire 
yield  of  a  hill  were  exhibited,  showing  a  large 
proportion  of  marketable  potatoes.  Mr.  Har¬ 
rison  is  decidedly  in  favor  of  planting  whole 
and  good  sized  potatoes,  and  claims  that  not 
only  is  a  larger  yield  of  larger  potatoes  obtained 
than  when  cut  seed  is  used,  but  there  is  no  ten¬ 


dency  to  degenerate,  and  the  variety  is,  on  the 
contrary,  improved.  AVhole  potatoes  may  be 
planted  very  early ;  the  most  vigorous  eyes  will 
start,  and  if  the  shoots  from  these  should  be 
cut  down  by  a  late  frost,  others  will  sprout 
from  the  dormant  eyes,  and  a  crop  will  be  rea¬ 
lized  without  replanting.  We  understand  tjiat 
Mr.  Harrison  intends  to  prepare  a  detailed  ac¬ 
count  of  his  experiments  wdth  the  potato.  This 
outline  is  from  notes  taken  of  a  conversation 
with  him  while  he  w- as  actively  engaged  in  the 
discharge  of  his  duties  at  the  Exhibition  as  Sec¬ 
retary,  and  if  any  essential  point  is  omitted  we 
have  no  doubt  he  will  willingly  supply  it. 

—  ’m  <  I  ^ 

Unseasonable  Growth  in  Trees,  etc. 

Quite  a  number  of  correspondents  have  sent 
us  accounts  of  apple,  pear,  cherry  and  other 
fruit  trees,  which  have  come  into  bloom  in  the 
months  of  September  and  October,  and  we  have 
ourselves  seen  a  number  of  instances  of  this 
kind  in  which  the  trees  had  flowers  and  young 
fruit.  Several  who  had  plants  of  the  “Agricul¬ 
turist  ”  strawberry  have  sent  us  by  mail  speci¬ 
mens  of  poorly  developed  ripe  fruit,  some  of 
them  finding  fault  with  the  variety  on  account 
of  its  being  a  “  late  kind.”  It  is  not  rare  to  find 
strawberry  flowers  late  in  the  season,  and  this 
year  they  have  appeared  more  or  less  abundant¬ 
ly  on  plants  of  different  varieties,  and  the  thing 
is  not  peculiar  to  the  “  Agriculturist.”  In  the 
middle  of  October  we  went  over  a  large  bed  of 
Boston  Pine  and  found  quite  a  picking  of  fruit. 
Nor  are  our  ornamental  trees  exempt  from  this 
unseasonable  development.  In  the  streets  of 
New  York  City  we  have  noticed  several  Horse- 
chestnut  trees,  the  terminal  buds  of  which  had 
pushed,  and  though  the  growth  from  them  was 
not  as  vigorous  as  it  is  in  spring,  it  was  sufficient 
to  cloth  the  tree  in  green  long  after  the  regular 
crop  of  leaves  had  fallen.  These  phenomena 
are  caused  by  the  unusual  character  of  the  past 
season ;  late  summer  and  early  autumn  being 
so  dry  as  to  cause  early  maturity  of  wood  and 
foliage,  as  well  as  of  fruit,  and  vegetation  came 
to  a  rest  at  a  much  earlier  period  than  usual. 
This  cessation  of  growth  is  usually  folloM^ed  by 
cool  weather,  which  keeps  the  plants  in  a 
dormant  state,  but  this  year  it  w'as  succeeded  by 
continued  warm  w’eather  with  occasional  rains. 
The  effect  of  this  was  to  start  into  life  the  buds 
which  had  been  prepared  for  another  year,  and  as 
it  were  to  use  in  the  payment  of  a  present  neces¬ 
sity,  funds  which  had  been  reserved  to  meet  an 
obligation  not  yet  matured.  As  we  cannot  spend 
our  money  and  keep  it  too,  the  trees  that  have 
pushed  flowers  and  leaves  are  in  the  condition 
of  one  who  has  exhausted  his  resources,  and 
the  only  remedy  for  the  tree,  as  for  the  indivi¬ 
dual,  is  at  once  to  retrench.  To  drop  illustra¬ 
tion,  trees  which  have  pushed  either  flowers  or 
leaves,  must  be  severely  cut  back,  as  whatever 
of  late  growth  they  may  have  made,  cannot  be 
sufficiently  ripened  to  endure  the  winter.  Those 
trees  which  have  flowered  cannot  be  expected 
to  repeat  the  operation. next  spring,  unless  there 
should  be  some  buds  that  have  remained  dor¬ 
mant;  so  much  of  the  accumulated  energy,  so 
to  speak,  of  the  tree  has  been  exhausted,  and  in 
order  to  repair  the  damage  we  should  shorten 
in  the  branches,  and  secure  a  vigorous  growth 
next  spring  from  buds  which  have  not  been 
swollen  in  the  autumn.  This  is  especially 
necessary  on  young  trees,  which  will  have  theif 
future  vigor  much  impaired  if  it  be  neglected, 
but  if  they  are  severely  cut  back  now,  having 
regard  as  much  as  may  be  to  the  future  shape 
of  the  tree,  they  will  in  all  probability  do  well 


Bk^aii  Sfiiiks,  No.  TTT.— (.S'e^^w^f  nos,') 


18C5.1 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


Cultivating  Chestnuts. 

The  striking  picture  ■which  is  presented  of  a 
chestnut  burr  with  its  fruit,  is  no  exaggeration. 
The  measurements  were  fairly  taken,  and  the 
character  of  the  nuts,  their 
sw’eetness  and  freedom  from 
bitter  inside  skin  convinced 
every  one,  without  other  tes¬ 
timony,  that  they  are  genu¬ 
ine  native  Americans,  or  at 
least  just  as  good.  They 
were  brought  to  our  office  by 
E.  S.  Lamoreaux,  Somer¬ 
set  Co.,  N.  J.,  who  has  for 
four  or  five  years  exhibited 
chestnuts  from  this  tree. 

Each  year  they  have  been 
larger  than  the  year  before, 
and  this  year  the  nuts  weigh 
40  to  the  pound.  Mr.  L. 
states  that  when  he  came 
in  posession  of  the  place  he 
now  occupies,  he  found  the 
tree  which  bears  this  fruit, 
then  in  bearing,  and  of  good 
size,  standing  isolated  in 
arable  land.  .  The  field  has 
been  regularly  cultivated  to 
common  farm  crops,  corn, 
potatoes,  etc.,  well  manured ; 
but  the  chestnut  tree,  which 
originally  bore  fine  large 
fruit,  has  received  on  its  own 
account,  an  additional  dres¬ 
sing  of  about  one  load  of  ma¬ 
nure  in  the  spring,  and  a 
quantity  of  lime  in  autumn. 

The  result  is  a  constantly 
increasing  vigor  in  the  tree, 
and  larger  crops,  and  at  the  same  time  very 
greatly  augmented  size  of  the  nuts. 

,  Every  one  who  has  taken  pains  to  observe  the 
fruit  of  different  chestnut  trees  must  have  no¬ 
ticed  very  great  diversities  both  in  size  and 
sweetness.  In  Europe  where  this  nut  has  been 
cultivated  for  centuries,  there  are  over  thirty 
catalogued  varieties  which  may  be  had  of  nur¬ 
serymen  there.  Should  we  turn  our  attention 
to  the  cultivation  of  the  chestnut  here,  valuable 
varieties  would  soon  multiply  upon  our  hands, 
as  do  the  sorts  of  native  grapes.  That  their  cul¬ 
ture  will  pay  need  hardly  be  argued ;  chestnuts 
now  bring  $7  to  $13  per  bushel. 

While  there  is  no  doubt  that  if  large  chestnuts 
are  planted,  trees  may  be  raised,  the  majority  of 
which  will  produce  improved  fruit,  there  is 
no  certainty  of  this,  and  in  Europe,  recourse  is 
had  to  grafting  or  rather,  budding.  As  there  is 
but  little  American  experience  in  chestnut  cul¬ 
ture  to  draw  upon,  we  condense  the  following 
account  of  the  manner  of  proceeding  in  the 
French  nurseries  from  the  “Arboriculture”  of 
DubreuiT. — Stocks  are  raised  from  the  seed,  and 
for  this  purpose  the  ordinary  chestnut  answers 
perfectly  well.  The  chestnuts,  after  being  gath¬ 
ered,  are  exposed  for  several  days  to  the  sun,  to 
rid  them  of  superfluous  moisture,  and  they  are 
then  packed  in  an  abundance  of  sand,  where 
they  are  kept  until  the  soil  is  ready  for  planting 
in  spring.  This  treatment  is  necessary  to  pre¬ 
vent  the  nuts  from  heating  or  becoming  too  dry, 
either  of  which  would  destroy  their  vitality. 
The  nuts  are  planted  in  rows  about  15  inches 
apart,  at  distances  of  some  10  inches,  and  cov¬ 
ered  about  3  inches  deep.  During  the  first  two 
years  the  plants  remain  in  the  seed  bed,  which 
is  to  be  kept  clean.  The  third  spring  after 


planting,  they  are  set  in  nursery  rows,  the  tap 
root  being  shortened  at  transplanting.  When 
the  young  trees  are  about  8  feet  high,  they  arc 
set  where  they  are  to  remain.  To  graft  or  bud 
the  chestnut,  the  young  trees  are  cut  back  in 


AMERICAN  CHESTNUTS,  BIPROVED  BY  CULTIVATION. 

spring  to  6  or  8  feet,  when  numerous  shoots 
will  start,  5  or  6  of  which  are  selected  upon 
which  to  bud,  and  the  rest  removed.  The 
method  of  budding  said  to  succeed  the  best,  is 
the  ring  or  flute  budding.  A  ring  of  bark  con¬ 
taining  a  bud,  is  removed  from  a  twig,  of  the 
variety  it  is  desired  to  propagate,  of  the  same 
size  as  the  stock,  and  neatly  fitted  in  the  place 
of  a  similar  portion  of  bai'k  that  has  been  re¬ 
moved  from  the  stock.  In  France  this  opera¬ 
tion  is  performed  in  August,  but  the  time  to  be 
selected  here  must  be  that  at  which  the  bark 
will  separate  most  readily  from  the  wood. 

Since  the  foregoing  was  in  type,  a  friend,  who 
has  been  experimenting  with  chestnuts,  informs 
us  that  he  has  been  successful  in  propagating 
them  by  the  ordinary  whip  grafting.  The  work 
was  done  in  the  spring,  just  before  the  trees 
started  into  growth.  Young  shoots  were  selected 
to  graft  upon,  and  the  cions  were  of  the  same 
size  as  the  stocks  upon  which  they  were  placed. 

^  1 0  BiM  r  — i 

Coleus  Verschafeltii. 


This  very  pretty  “  foliage  plant  ”  with  an  un¬ 
pleasantly  awkward  name,  (pronounced  Co-le-us 
Ver-sliaf-fel-ti-i,)  was  engraved  in  June  1863. 
It  was  then  new  and  quite  rare,  but  such  is  the 
ease  with  whicli  it  is  propagated,  that  it  is  now 
one  of  the  most  common,  as  it  is  one  of  the 
most  useful  bedding  plants.  In  the  figure  refer¬ 
red  to,  the  foliage  is  given  as  variegated,  and  it 
usually  is  so  when  grown  in-doors,  but  when 
put  out  in  the  grounds,  it  becomes  a  rich  mass 
of  maroon-crimson  foliage,  often  beautifully* 
tinged  with  bronze.  It  is  pleasing  when  grown 
in  single  specimens,  but  the  best  effects  are  ob¬ 
tained  by  planting  it  in  masses.  A  bed  cut  out 


in  a  lawn  and  rather  thickly  planted  with  this, 
with  a  border  of  other  and  lower  growing  plants, 
A  very  white  leaved  plant, 
Candida,  is  a  good  one  to  use  with 
Coleus  is  not  inelegant  as  a 
pot  plant,  and  it  may  be 
easily  kept  over  winter  in 
the  house,  and  afford  plenty 
of  cuttings  with  which  to 
start  a  stock  in  the  spring. 
Nothing  is  easier  to  propa¬ 
gate.  Placed  in  a  dish  of 
wet  sand,  every  joint  will 
strike  root  and  make  a  plant. 

The  Trailing  Arbutus. 

{Epigcca  repens.) 

Engravings,  be  they  ever  so 
faithful  as  to  form  and  out¬ 
line,  generally  fail  to  convey 
an  idea  of  the  exquisite  del¬ 
icacy  and  beauty  of  flowers, 
as  a  photograph  gives  a  cor¬ 
rect  map  of  the  face  of  a 
friend,  and  yet  lacks  the  ex¬ 
pression  which  is  character¬ 
istic  of  it.  No  stronger  in¬ 
stance  of  the  inability  of  the 
engraver’s  art  to  present  that 
W'hich  we  most  wish  to  show 
about  a  flower,  has  occurred 
to  us  than  the  one  now  be¬ 
fore  the  reader.  Both  artist 
and  engraver  have  done 
well,  and  yet  the  delicate 
texture,  the  fresh  breath  of 
spring,  in  short  the  living 
plant  is  not  there;  and  if 
those  who  do  not  know  the 
Trailing  Al’butns,  would  learn  how  lovely  a  gem 
our  woods  contain,  they  must  go  in  March 
or  early  April  to  some  wooded  hill  side,  where, 
upon  the  edges  of  the  wood,  snugly  nestling 
among  the  fallen  leaves,  they  will  find  a  treasure 
worth  the  seeking.  The  plant  is  common  in 
New  England  and  extends  to  the  Carolinas, 
generally  preferring  a  sandy  soil,  though  some¬ 


TRAILING  ARBUTUS.  ' 


times  found  on  the  borders  of  rocky  woods, 
especially  where  there  are  pine  forests.  It  is  a 
littie  evergreen  shrub,  growing  prostrate  upon 
the  earth,  as  its  name  Epigoea  expresses.  The 
stems  and  leaves  bear  brown  hairs,  which  give 


makes  a  fine  show. 
Centaur  ea 
the  Coleus.  The 


378 


AMEKIGAN  AGRICULTURIIST. 


[DECEMBEIt, 


a  rich  effect  to  the  foliage ;  the  flowers  vary  in 
color  from  pure  white  to  a  rich  rose,  and  have  a 
delicioiisness  of  fragrance  not  equalled  by  any 
of  our  wild  floweis.  So  attractive  is  the  plant 
that  many  have  removed  it  to  the  garden,  where 
witli  ordinary  treatment,  it  is  quite  sure  to  die, 
and  some  of  the  books  slate  that  it  cannot  be 
cultivated,  but  this  is  not  so.  An  amateur  of 
our  acquaintance  has  a  great  liking  for  growing 
wild  flowers,  and  he  usually  succeeds,  for  the 
reason  that  he  consults  the  natural  habits  of  his 
fiivorites,  and  gives  them  a  treatment  suited  to 
their  needs.  With  him  the  Epigsea  grows  finely. 
He  takes  up  the  plant  in  autumn  with  a  good 
ball  of  earth  around  the  roots,  and  transfers  it 
to  a  bed  prepared  with  leaf-mould  and  a  plenty 
of  sand,  and  over  the  whole  puts  a  thick  cover¬ 
ing  of  leaves.  Then  in  summer  the  bed  is 
shaded  by  a  frame  work  of  laths,  the  laths  being 
put  as  far  apart  as  they  are  Avide.  This,  while 
it  affords  free  circulation  of  air,  Avards  off  the 
burning  sun,  and  by  this  method  he  succeeds 
not  only  Avith  the  Epigtea,  but  Avith  other  native 
plants  that  are  usually  difficult  to  manage.  We 
harm  given  at  the  head  of  this  article  the  most 
generally  used  common  name,  but  it  also  bears 
those  of  Gi'ound-Laurel  and  May-flower. 


Knox’s  Fruit  Farm  and  Grape  Festival. 


The  Rev.  J.  Knox,  Avas  some  years  ago  known 
as  the  “StraAvberry  King,”  but  he  has  since 
cultivated  the  grape  so  largely  that  Ave  are  not 
sure  that  his  former  title  holds-good.  Though 
he  does  not  by  any  means  give  up  strawberries, 
he  each  year  has  “  a  little  more  grape.”  Mr. 
Knox  has  a  pleasant  Avay  of  holding  “festivals” 
over  his  straAvberry  and  grape  harvests,  at  Avhich 
all  pomologists  are  Avelcome.  Lest  the  term 
might  be  misconstrued,  Ave  Avill  state  that  the 
festival  part  consists  of  a  hospitable  farmers’ 
dinner,  Avdth  perhaps  a  glass  of  home-made 
wine,  but  that  their  real  object  is  to  get  people 
together  to  “  talk  fruit,”  and  see  AA’hat  he  is  do¬ 
ing  in  the  way  of  fruit  culture.  We  attended 
his  grape  festival  this  year,  AA'hich  OAviug  to^g 
prolonged  storm,  drcAV  together  fewer  thaii 
usual.  There  Avere  several  gentlemen  present 
from  Ohio,  Michigan,  KcAV-York,  and  Penn- 
‘s)'lvania,  all  more  or  less  concerned  in  fruit  cul¬ 
ture.  Mr.  Knox’s  fruit  firm  is  upon  a  hill, 
about  two  miles  from  Pittsburgh,  and  just  out¬ 
side  of  the  smoke  cloud  that  overhangs  the 
Iron  City.  Ilis  farm  contains  about  140  acres, 
and  has  a  gently  undulating  surface,  the  soil 
l)eing  a  stiff  loam.  Forty  acres  are  in  strawber¬ 
ries,  tAventy-tAVO  acres  in  vine3vard,  the  rest  of 
the  land  being  devoted  to  nursery  purposes, 
orchard,  currants,  and  other  small  fruits.  The 
first  thing  that  strikes  the  visitor,  is  the  practi¬ 
cal  air  that  pervades  the  Avhole,  everything  for 
use  and  nothing  for  show.  This  is  a  successful 
fruit  farm,  and  the  principal  element  in  its  suc¬ 
cess  is  thorough  culture.  The  fields  of  straw¬ 
berries  are  immense,  but  there  are  no  Aveeds, 
and  in  those  Avhere  fruit  is  expected,  no  run¬ 
ners.  Mr.  Kno.x’s  manner  of  training  grapes 
Avc  described  in  November,  18G3.  The  trellis 
there  figured  is  the  one  noAV  in  use.  It  struck 
us  that  8  feet  was  rather  too  high  for  conveni¬ 
ence,  and  afforded  too  much  surface  to  the 
Aviuds.  It  Avas  to  be  expected  from  Mr.  K’s 
knoAvn  partiality  for  the  Concord,  that  this 
Avould  be  the  leading  A-ariety,  and  so  Ave  found 
it.  All  other  kinds  are  represented,  but  for, 
grapes  he  groAvs  the  Cdncord.  Looking  at  the 
splendid  show  of  fruit  on  his  trellises Avhere  the 
vines  had  hardly  cast  a  leaf,  and  then  at  the 


fruitless  and  leafless  vines  of  most  other  varie¬ 
ties,  Ave  can  hardly  wonder  at  his  enthusiasm, 
Avhen  he  declares  this  to  be  the  grape  for  him. 
This  3'ear  his  Concord  Aunes  have  been  healthy 
and  fruitful,  Avhile  the  Delaware,  Diana,  Rebec¬ 
ca  and  others  have  completely  failed.  With 
tons  of  the  Concord  bringing  good  prices  and 
comparatively  nothing  in  other  kinds,  toe  should 
speak  AA'ell  of  a  friend  that  had  bridged  over  a 
disastrous  season.  The  Concord  is  much  better 
with  Mr.  Knox  than  it  is  at  the  East,  and  though 
not  on  his  grounds  a  first  class  grape,  it  is  the 
A’ariety  that  gives  him  fruit,  Avhich  he  consid¬ 
ers  the  object  in  growing  vines.  At  the  time 
we  Avere  there  (Oct.  20,)  one  standing  upon  an 
elevated  part  of  his  grounds  could  tell  by  the 
show  of  foliage  the  places  where  the  Concords 
were  growing.  The  same  Avas  the  case  in  the 
nursery  gi-ounds  Avith  one  and-tA\'0-year-old 
plants.  All  the  Delawares  and  other  favorite 
sorts  had  lost  their  leaves,  while  the  Concords 
were  still  a  mass  of  green.  The  Herbemont  did 
Avell  this  year  with  Mr.  Knox,  aS  did  Elsinburgh, 
Creveling  and  Hartford.  He  has  two  seedlings 
of  the  Concord  Avhich  he  considers  of  great 
promise ;  one  a  white  grape,  called  Martha,  and 
the  other  a  very  early  black  one.  Black  Hawk. 
Both  these  present  the  same  characteristics  of 
groAvth  and  foliage  as  their  parent,  the  leaves  of 
the  Black  Hawk  being  noticeable  for  their  black¬ 
ish-green  color.  Mr.  Knox  has  been  experi¬ 
menting  some  at  wine-making.  The  Concord 
gives  a  very  good  rough  red  wine.  He  exhibit¬ 
ed  Samples  of  DelaAvare  of  different  ages,  Isa¬ 
bella,  Catawba,  Delaware  and  Diana.  The  most 
remarkable  sample  of  wine  Avas  made  from  a 
mixture  of  the  Delaware  and  Anna,  and  pos¬ 
sessed  a  delicacy  of  perfume  and  flavor  which 
reminded  one  of  the  choice  wines  of  Hungary, 
and  Avhich  it  is  rare  to  find  in  an  American  pro¬ 
duct.  While  those  Atffio  accepted  Mr.  Knox’s 
hospitality  regretted  that  the  discouraging 
weather  prevented  a  larger  gathering,  they  were 
all  gratified  and  instructed  by  an  inspection  of 
one  of  the  most  successful  horticultural  estab¬ 
lishments  in  the  country. 

■ "  -«-« —  —a*"'  — - 

The  Cultivation  of  the  Tuberose. 

BY  PETEK  HENDERSON,  JERSEY  CITY,  N.  J. 

I  knoAV  of  no  floAver  that  is  so  generally 
admired,  and  that  is  yearly  planted  with  so 
much  uncertainty  of  blooming  as  the  Tuler- 
ose.  The  amateur  irlants  his  bulbs  of  H3’a- 
cinths.  Tulips,  or  Gladiolus,  and  is  just  as 
certain  of  a  bloom  following  in  due  season  as 
he  is  that  the  summer  Avill  folloAV  the  spring. 
But  it  is  not  so  with  his  Tuberose  bulb ;  unpleas¬ 
ant  experience  has  too  often  told  him  that  after 
selecting  the  sunniest  spot  in  his  flower  bed, 
and  planting  Avith  the  greatest  care,  instead  of 
flowers  he  is  rcAvarded  only  by  a  mass  of  rank 
green  leaves.  Noav,  as  in  most  mishaps  in  ama¬ 
teur  horticulture,  the  cause  is  a  very  simple  one, 
the  knoAvledge  in  this  case  is  easily  imparted, 
and  failure  need  never  occur.  In  the  selection 
of  the  bulbs,  reject  all  that  do  not  sIioav  signs 
of  vegetation  from  the  centre  bulb.  It  is  true 
that  they  Avill  occasionally  flower  even  Avhen  the 
centre  does  not  show  green,  but  it  is  always 
doubtful,  even  to  us  of  the  trade.  Figure  1 
shows  a  bulb  as  it  is  taken  up  by  the  cultivator 
in  the  fall — a  large  center  bulb  Avith  several 
smaller  ones,  or  “sets,”  attached.  The  large 
bulb  only  is  that  wdiich  produces  the  flower, 
and  if  that  has  rotted  in  the  center  sufficient  to 
destroy  the  flower  germ,  it  Avill  not  bloom. 
Figure  3  shoAvs  a  perfect  bulb  cut  longitudinally ; 


rig.  1.— BULB  OF  TUBEROSE. 

Figure  2,  one  in  which  the  center  has  decayed. 

Now,  in  lifting  the  bulbs  in  fall,  every  bulb 
is  then  perfect,  that  is  large  enough  to  flower, 
those  figured  are  about  the  medium  natural 
size.  I  am  satisfied  beyond  all  doubt  that  the 
cause  of  decay  and  consequent  failure  to  floAver 
in  the  Tuberose  is  its  being  kept  in  too  low  a 
temperature  during  winter.  It  is  supposed, 
generall}^  that  it  is  enough  to  keep  them  dry 
and  free  from  frost  as  we  keep  potatoes  in  a  cel¬ 
lar.  But  unfortunate  experience  has  demon¬ 
strated  to  me,  by  a 
loss  of  some  thou¬ 
sands  of  dollars,  that 
this  is  not  enough; 
they  must  be  kept 
both  dry  and  warm, 
from  October  until 
May.  If  -they  are 
allowed  to  remain  for 
any  length  of  time  in 
a  temperature  less 
than  50°,  the  center 
or  floAver  germ  will 
be  destroyed,  though 
the  outward  appear¬ 
ance  of  the  bulb  to 
the  uninitiated  would 
be  the  same.  To 
those  who  have 
green-houses, the  best 
place  to  keep  them 
is  alongside  the  flue 
or  hot  water  pipes; 
to  those  Avho  have 
not,  the  shelves  in  a 
closet  of  any  Avell 
Avarmed  room  will 
suffice.  The  Tuber¬ 
ose  is  noAV  a  plant  of 
rising  importance  for  market  purposes.  I  have 
no  doubt  that  half  a  million  roots  are  grown 
annually  in  the  vicinity  of  Ncav  York.  The 
greater  part  of  these  are  grown  by  the  Florists 
to  supply  the  boquet  makers  with  this  most  im¬ 
portant  item  in  the  construction  of  their  baskets 
of  flowers,  boquets,  vases,  etc.,  etc.  Tuberose 
flowers  are  now  produced  nearly  all  the  year 
round,  and  sell  at  Avholesale  from  $1  to  $10  per 
100  florets,  according  to  the  season,  the  price 


aiwii. 

Fig.  2.— IMPERFECT  BULB. 


1865.j 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


379 


being  the  highest  during  the  holidays.  Each 
spike  averages  20  florets  or  single  flowers,  so 
that  at  some  seasons  the  flowers  of  a  single  root 
of  this  common  bulb  produce  $2  at  wholesale. 

Cultivating  the  Bulbs. — Our  mode  is  very 
simple.  After  the  ground  has  been  well  ma¬ 
nured  and  spaded,  or  plowed,  lines  are  struck 
out  one  foot  apart ;  the  small  bulbs  or  “  sets  ” 
(see  fig.  1,)  are  then  planted  six  inches  apart, 
and  at  least  four  inches  below  the  surface  ;  this 


we  consider  of  great  importance,  as  it  tends  to 
solidify  the  neck  of  the  bulb,  and  thereby  pre¬ 
vent  the  disposition  to  decay.  Our  time  of 
planting  here  is  about  the  1st  of  June,  but  as 
they  do  not  begin  to  grow  for  nearly  four  weeks 
after  planting,  it  is  necessary  to  hoe  and  rake 
the  ground  once  or  twice  before  they  come  up, 
to  prevent  the  growth  of  weeds  which  would 
otherwise  quickly  choke  them  up  in  their  feeble 
state.  The  bulbs  are  matured  by  the  end  of 
October,  the  tops  are  then  cut  off  (but  not  too 
close,)  and  the  roots  at  once  placed  in  a  warm 
and  dry  place. 

PRODUcroG  Flowers. — To  secure  a  continu¬ 
ous  bloom  of  the  Tuberose,  the  first  roots 
should  be  started  in  January,  in  a  temperature 
not  less  than  65°,  and  if  kept  regularly  not  be¬ 
low  that  temperature,  they  will  flower  in  May. 
Those  which  are  wanted  to  flower  out  doors, 
and  which  are  of  most  interest  to  general  read¬ 
ers,  should  be  started  in  a  Green-house,  Hot-bed, 
or  warm  room,  not  sooner  than  the  1st  of  May, 
and  planted  out  in  the  flower  borders  three  or 
four  weeks  after ;  thus  treated,  they  will  begin 
to  bloom  in  August,  and  continue  in  bloom  for 
two  or  three  months.  In  warmer  sections  of 
the  country  there  is  no  necessity  for  this  for¬ 
warding  treatment,  as  there  the  dry  bulb  plant¬ 
ed  out  in  May  will  flower  freely  during  the 

autumn  months. - ^For  a  later  succession  of 

flowers,  say  for  the  months  of  November,  De¬ 
cember,  and  January,  the  bulbs  should  be  kept 
dry  and  planted  by  the  first  or  middle  of  August ; 
these  of  course,  must  be  grown  in  the  Hot-house 
or  Green-house,  as  the  Tuberose  is  a  plant  re¬ 
quiring  at  all  times  a  high  temperature.  The 
beauty  and  fragrance  of  this  flower  well  repay 
the  little  care  required  to  produce  it. 


Uotes  on  Grapes  and  Grape  Culture. 


“  What,  more  about  grapes  ?  ”  says  the  reader 
who  has  no  interest  in  the  culture  of  the  vine. 
Yes,  for  the  reason  that  it  is  now  one  of  the 
leading  horticultural  topics.  The  vine  growers 
have  their  grape  shows  and  grape  conventions, 
and  we  should  not  be  much  surprised  if  they 
started  a  grape  journal,  but  whether  they  do  or 
not,  we  must  have  our  share  of  grape  talk.  Those 
who  do  not  come  in  contact  with  grape  people, 
are  little  aware  of  the  great  amount  of  capital 
already  in  vines,  and  of  the  perhaps  still  greater 
amount  about  being  invested  there,  especially  in 
the  Western  States.  Individuals  are  about  to 
plant  their  acres,  and  companies  with  abundant 
capital,  their  scores  of  acres.  Land  in  localities 
known  to  be  favorable  to  the  vine,  sells  at  great 
prices,  and  men  known  to  be  good  vineyardists, 
are  engaged  by  companies  at  liberal  salaries.  If 
we  add  to  all  this  activity  in  planting  vines,  the 
large  amount  of  capital  engaged  in  raising  and 
selling  them,  it  will  be  seen  there  is  no  one  plant 
which  is  of  more  pecuniary  interest  just  now 
than  the  grape  vine,  nor  one  concerning  which 
people  are  so  anxious  for  facts.  “  Facts  are 
just  what  I  have  been  looking  for,”  suggests  the 
reader,  “  I  have  read  all  the  reports  of  the  grape 
discussions,  all  the  grape  notes,  books  and  ca¬ 
talogues,  and  the  only  ‘  fact’  I  arrive  at,  is  that 
it  is  all  a  precious  muddle.”  We  admit  that 
there  is  some  truth  in  this  view,  but  we  regard 
matters  more  hopefully.  Chaos  always  precedes 
order,  and  every  science  accumulates  first  a  dis¬ 
jointed  mass  of  materials  before  any  general 
laws  are  found  by  which  to  arrange  them.  So  in 
grape  culture  we  are  accumulating  varieties  and 
bits  of  information,  bye-and-bye  we  shall  have 
a  sweeping  away  of  the  rubbish  and  a  clearer 
knowledge  of  general  laws.  Then  grape  dis¬ 
cussions  are  useful  and  amusing  withal.  One 
grower  comes  several  hundred  miles  to  assert 
that  there  is  no  grape  like  the  Tweedledum ; 
another  comes  as  far  from  the  opposite  direction 
to  declare  the  merits  of  the  Tweedledee,  while 
the  growers  around  in  the  State  where  the  Con¬ 
vention  is  held,  are  sure  that  the  old  Thingumbob 
is  the  best  sort.  All  of  these  talks  have  settled 
just  one  thing,  and  as  flir  as  we  can  see  only 
one :  that  there  is  no  one  grape  yet  known  that 
is  suited  to  every  locality.  A  very  little  bread 
for  so  much  sack,  truly,  but  still  it  is  one  point 
fixed,  and  perhaps  by  another  year  we  may  be 
able  to  set  another  stake.  Meanwhile  let  us  go 
on  discussing  the  matter,  especially  in  State, 
County  and  Town  Societies,  and  learn  to  give 
more  value  to  our  own  experience  and  that  of 
our  neighbors,  than  we  do  to  that  of  those  who 
dwell  in  far  distant  localities. 

The  past  season  has  explained  the  caution, 
that  we  must  be  slow  in  making  up  our  final 
judgment  upon  varieties,  as  it  has  shown  us 
that  some  of  them  are  likely  to  recede  from  the 
high  position  accorded  them,  while  others  have 
developed  new  claims  to  popularity.  It  must 
be  recollected  that  grape  culture  with  us  is  still 
in  its  infancy,  and  notwithstanding  the  remark¬ 
able  progress  it  already  presents,  it  is  only  the 
vigor  and  growth  of  the  youth,  and  not  the 
steady  and  settled  character  of  manhood.  But 
few  of  our  finer  grapes  have  had  a  fair  trial. 
How  many  have  had  ten  years’  experience  with 
them — yet  it  was  nearly  a  half  century  be¬ 
fore  the  verdict.was  made  up  for  the  Isabella. 
Our  new  sorts  are  all  on  young  vines  as  yet, 
and  we  all  know  what  a  difference  the  age  of 
the  vine  makes  in  the  character  of  the  fruit. 
Then  in  the  desire  of  propagators  to  meet  the 


demand  for  any  variety  wortliy  of  trial,  every 
available  bud  is  coaxed  to  make  a  vine,  and 
many  poor  “knitting  needles”  are  sent  out,  and 
these  slender  specimens  are  forced  into  fruit  at 
the  earliest  possible  moment,  and  then,  if  the 
first  product  of  the  vine,  which  that  year,  and 
probably  the  next,  ought  not  to  have  borne  a 
bunch,  is  not  up  to  the  description,  the  varietj' 
loses  in  the  estimation  of  the  grower. 

There  is  one  point  upon  which  our  "Western 
friends  are  exercised ;  some  go  so  far  as  to  say 
that  no  variety  which  requires  for  its  healthy 
development  to  be  grown  under  glass  the  first 
year,  should  be  recommended  for  general  cul¬ 
ture.  We  cannot  agree  with  this  view.  The 
object  of  the  grower  is,  to  procure  the  strongest 
possible  well  ripened  cane  at  the  close  of  the 
first  season’s  growth.  If  this  can  be  done  in  the 
open  ground,  all  the  better.  If  by  mulching 
the  young  vines,  let  him  mulch,  or  if  by  shad¬ 
ing  them,  let  him  shade.  So  if  by  controlling 
the  atmospheric  changes  by  means  of  glass 
structures  he  can  secure  a  healthy  grow'th,  let 
him  do  it,  for  he  only  accomplishes  by  legiti¬ 
mate  horticultural  appliances  what  the  out-door 
grower  trusts  a  favorable  season  to  do  for  him. 
That  a  variety  is  a  slow  grower  and  delicate 
when  3mung,  is  not  in  itself  an  argument  against 
it,  any  more  than  the  fact  that  young  turkej’s 
will  die  if  allowed  to  run  in  the  wet  grass,  is  a 
reason  why  we  should  not  raise  them. 

Grafting  the  Grape  Vine.' 


In  September  1863,  we  gave  an  extract  from 
Fuller’s  Grape  Culturist,  containing  its  instruc¬ 
tions  for  grafting  the  vine.  We  have  had  nu¬ 
merous  requests  to  republish  the  article,  but  can 
only  comply  so  far  as  to  give  the  principal 
points,  which  will  be  all  that  is  necessary  to 
enable  one  to  perform  the  operation.  The  prop¬ 
er  season  for  putting  in  grafts,  is  the  fall  or  early 
winter,  at  any  time  before  the  ground  is  frozen. 
The  stock  has  the  soil  removed  from  around  it, 
and  is  cut  off  at  the  depth  of  four  or  six  inches 
below  the  surface.  The  cion  is  a  piece  of  well- 
ripened  wood,  of  the  previous  summer’s  growth, 
and  consists  of  one  eye  or  bud  and  about  four 
inches  of  wood.  This  is  prepared  and  inserted 
in  the  stock  in  the  same  way  that  ordinary 
cleft  grafting  is  done.  Tie  a  piece  of  string  or 
bass  around  the  top  of  the  stock,  and  then  fill 
in  earth  enough  to  cover  the  junction  and  the 
graft  up  to  the  bud.  In  the  article  above  al¬ 
luded  to,  it  is  recommended  to  wrap  the  junc¬ 
tion  with  waxed  cloth,  as  in  grafting  trees. 
Experience  has  shown  that  this  is  not  only  un¬ 
necessary,  but  often  injurious,  and  that  success 
is  much  more  certain  if  the  stock  be  simplj^ 
tied  and  covered  with  earth.  A  flower  pot, 
small  box,  or  other  convenient  utensil,  is  then 
to  be  inverted  over  the  graft,  and  earth  filled  in 
around,  but  not  upon  it.  About  six  inches  of 
straw  is  put  over  the  pot  or  box,  and  a  mound 
of  earth  made  over  all.  Treated  in  this  way, 
the  graft  is  protected  from  the  action  of  frost 
and  the  union  takes  place  slowlj'.  The  object 
of  the  flower  pot  or  box  is  to  enable  one  to 
uncover  the  graft  in  spring  without  danger  of 
injuring  the  bud.  The  uncovering  should  not 
be  done  until  hard  frosts  are  over.  Grafts  insert¬ 
ed  in  this  way  grow  with  surprising  rapidity 
and  vigor,  and  the  method  affords  a  very  easy 
method  of  replacing  an  indifferent  or  worthless 
variety  of  grape  by  a  good  one,  and  of  impart¬ 
ing  greater  vigor  to  a  slow  growing  sort,  by  giv¬ 
ing  it  a  stock  of  stronger  roots.  If  carefullj’’ 
performed,  the  risk  of  fiiilure  is  very  small. 


380 


AMERICAN  AG-RICULTURIST 


[December, 


VENUS’S  FLT  TRAP  {Bioncea  nvuscipula.) 

The  Movements  of  Plants. 


There  are  some  plants  ■which,  by  their  sud¬ 
den  movements  ■when  irritated,  justly  excite  our 
■wonder.  The  Sensitive  Plant  {^Mimosa  pudica\ 
is  one  of  the  most  familiar  of  these,  and  is  one 
■which  can  readily  be  raised,  as  the  seeds,  ■which 
may  be  had  at  the  seed  stores,  ■will  germinate  in 
the  open  ground.  A  portion  of  the  sensitive 
plant  ■was  figured  in  December  of  last  year  on 
page  349.  Its  leaves  upon  the  slightest  touch 
suddenly  close  and  droop,  and  after  a  short  time 
gradually  unfold.  Another  remarkable  instance 
of  irritability  in  plants  is  shown  in  the  Venus’s 
Fly-Trail  {Bioncea  muscipula),  a  native  of  our 
Southern  States.  We  give  a  figure  of  this  plant 
taken  from  one  of  the  admirable  illustrations  in 
Gray’s  Genera.  The  plant  is  here  represented 
of  life  size,  and  the  peculiar  leaves  are  ■u’ell 
shown  in  various  positions.  The  petiole  or  leaf 
stalk  is  very  broad,  and  the  proper  blade,  ■which 
is  short  in  proportion,  consists  of  two  rounded 
lobes,  each  of  which  bears  upon  its  margin  a 
row  of  short  bristle-like  hairs,  and  upon  its  up¬ 
per  surface  a  few  scattered  minute  hairs,  ■which 
seem  to  be  the  seat  of  sensitiveness.  When  an 
insect  alights  upon  the  leaf  and  touches  one  of 
these  hairs,  the  two  lobes  immediately  close  and 
secure  the  insect  which  is  held  until  dead. 
One  of  the  leaves  is  shown  closed  in  the  en¬ 


graving,  the  marginal  bristles  interlocking  in 
the  manner  of  the  fingers  when  the  hands  are 
clasped.  Why  a  plant  should  be  provided  with 
so  complete  a  contrivance  for  trapping  insects 
is  not  understood,  but  it  does  it  most  efiectually, 
and  its  operation  affords  us  another  striking  in- 
stance  of  sudden  motion  in  plants,  when  sub¬ 
jected  to  some  irritating  cause.  But  there  are 
instances  in  which  the  movement  is  sponta¬ 
neous,  i.  e.,  without  any  apparent  exciting  cause. 
A  plant  of  the  East  Indies,  Heclysarum  gyrans, 
in  the  warm  air  of  the  hot-house,  keeps  its  leaf¬ 
lets  constantly  in  motion.  Other  instances  oc¬ 
cur  of  spontaneous  motion,  which  is  so  slow  that 
■we  notice  only  its  effects.  We  have  all  of  us 
noticed  the  climbers  after  they  had  wound  them¬ 
selves  around  some  support,  and  it  is  a  matter 
of  observation  that  this  is  sometimes  with  the 
sun,  and  at  others  in  an  opposite  direction,  and 
though  the  manner  in  which  climbers  twine 
about  objects  had  at¬ 
tracted  sorne  atten¬ 
tion  from  scientific 
observers,  it  is  only 
recently  that  the  sub¬ 
ject  has  been  thor¬ 
oughly  investigated. 
Darwin,  the  well- 
known  English  na¬ 
turalist  has  publish¬ 
ed  the  results  of  his 
experiments  in  a 
most  interesting  pa¬ 
per  in  the  Transac¬ 
tions  of  the  Linnsean 
Society,  for  June 
1865.  We  can  only 
call  attention  to  a 
few  of  the  points  in 
this  investigation  that 
seem  to  be  of  gene¬ 
ral  interest.  When 
the  growing  end  of  a 
twining  plant  hangs 
without  support,  it 
bends  over  in  a  more 
or  less  horizontal  di¬ 
rection,  and  contin¬ 
ues  to  sweep  around 
in  search  of  some  object  around  which  to 
twine.  In  doing  this,  the  extremity  of  the 
branch  describes  a  circle  or  ellipse  vidiich 
widens  as  the  shoot  increases  in  length.  The 
time  occupied  in  making  these  revolutions  va¬ 
ries  in  different  plants,  and  also  in  the  same 
plant  under  different  circumstances.  The  shoots 
of  common  Pole-beans  and  of  Morning  Glo¬ 
ries  revolve  in  about  two  hours,  while  other 
climbers  occupy  24  to  50  hours  in  completing 
the  circle.  The  top  of  a  Ceropegia,  a  green¬ 
house  climber,  31  inches  in  length,  revolved  day 
and  night,  describing  a  circle  of  over  5  feet  in 
diameter,  about  once  in  6  hours.  This  motion 
Darwin  remarks  is  not  a  twisting,  but  that  “the 
movement  is  in  fact  a  continuous  self-bowing  of 
the  whole  shoot,  successively  directed  to  all 
parts  of  the  compass.”  *  *  *  “When  at  last 
the  revolving  shoot  meets  with  a  support,  the 
motion  at  the  point  of  contact  is  necessarily 
arrested,  but  the  fi'ee  projecting  part  goes  on  re¬ 
volving.  Almost  immediately  another  and  up¬ 
per  point  of  the  shoot  is  brought  in  contact 
with  the  support  and  is  arrested ;  and  so  on¬ 
ward  to  the  extremity  of  the  shoot ;  and  thus 
it  winds  around  its  support.”  Tlie  whole  of 
the  interesting  article,  from  which  the  above 
is  quoted,  would  occupy  several  pages  of  the 
Agriculturist^  and  we  must  content  ourselves 
with  calling  the  attention  of  those  curious  in 


such  matters  to  these  readily  observed  pheno¬ 
mena.  We  must  leave  some  notice  of  Darwin’s 
observations  on  those  plants  which  climb  by 
means  of  tendrils  and  by  twisting  their  leaf¬ 
stalks  for  an  article  in  a  future  number. 

- - - - - 

A  Pretty  Climbing  Solannm. 

Bolanum  jasminoides. 


In  noticing  ornamental  plants,  ■we  generally 
select  those  which  may  be  readily  obtained  by 
the  reader  in  any  part  of  the  country  where 
there  are  nurserymen  and  seedsmen.  Some¬ 
times  there  are  plants  we  would  like  to  intro¬ 
duce  to  our  readers,  but  are  deterred  from  do¬ 
ing  so,  from  the  fact  that  they  are  not  generally 
to  be  found  in  the  hands  of  the  dealers.  Per¬ 
haps  the  best  way  in  such  cases  is  to  notice 
the  plant,  and  thus  create  a  demand  for  it, 
which  the  florists  will  soon  try  to  meet.  But 
few  have  an  idea  of  how  much  popularity  is 
given  to  a  plant  or  implement  by  a  figure  and 


CLIMBING  SOLANUM. 

description  in  the  Agriculturist.  Among  the 
many  thousands  who  read  the  article,  there  will 
be  a  sulficient  number  order  plants,  etc.,  to  ex¬ 
haust  any  ordinary  stock.  One  of  our  largest 
dealers  in  seeds  and  plants  says  that  he  can  tell 
by  his  orders  wliat  plants  have  been  recently 
recommended  in  this  journal.  We  are  led 
into  these  prefatory  remarks  by  recollecting  that 
the  plant  we  have  had  figured  is  not  one  of 
those  that  the  florists  make  much  stir  about. 


1865.1 


AMERICAN  AQRICULTURIST. 


381 


yet  it  is  nevertheless  an  exceedingly  pretty  and 
useful  climber.  The  engraving  shows  a  flower¬ 
ing  shoot  of  the  natural  size.  The  plant  belongs 
to  the  same  genus  with  the  potato,  Solarium, 
and  its  flowers  look  like  small  and  delicate  po¬ 
tato  blossoms ;  they  are  nearly  pure  white,  hav¬ 
ing  the  slightest  tinge  of  blue  or  purple  in  the 
corolla,  against  which  the  cluster  of  lemon-yel¬ 
low  stamens  shows  conspicuously.  The  leaves 
are  of  a  fine  deep  green,  and  form  a  dense  mass 
of  dark  verdure ;  their  shape  is  quite  variable, 
the  lower  ones  having  two  lobes  at  the  base, 
others  having  only  one  lobe,  while  many  of 
them  are  quite  entire,  as  is  shown  in  the  figure, 
and  some  of  the  larger  leaves  have  even  more 
than  two  lobes.  The  plant  is  a  vigorous  grow¬ 
er,  climbing  to  the  hight  of  10  feet  or  more, 
and  answers  well  to  cover  a  trellis,  the  part  of 
a  veranda,  or  any  other  object  which  it  is  desir¬ 
able  to  clothe  with  foliage.  It  climbs  by  twist¬ 
ing  its  leaf-stalks  around  the  support.  In  our 
climate  it  is  only  half  hardy,  but  it  may  be  kept 
from  year  to  year  with  a  little  trouble.  After 
frosts  have  destroyed  the  foliage,  cut  the  stem 
off  about  a  foot  from  the  ground,  and  put  the 
root  in  a.  box  or  pot  of  earth,  and  set  it  in  the 
cellar.  One  hangs  in  front  of  our  window  as 
we  write,  that  has  been  kept  along  in  this  way 
for  several  years.  The  plant  is  propagated  with 
great  ease  from  cuttings,' and  wherever  a  branch 
lies  upon  the  ground  it  will  strike  root.  It  is 
besides  a  very  useful  plant  for  in-door  decora¬ 
tion,  whether  of  the  green-house  or  sitting 
room,  as  it  stands  the  unfavorable  conditions  of 
heat  and  moisture  of  our  dwellings  very  much 
better  than  will  most  climbers,  except  the  Ivy. 


TOE  IHIOlIJSElHIOm 


About  Tapioca. 


This  Bubtance  was  formerly  used  mainly  in  pre¬ 
paring  food  for  the  sick,  or  convalescent,  but  is  now 
being  more  widely  adopted  as  an  article  of  diet,  as 
it  may  well  be,  since  it  is  very  nutritious  and  easily 
digestible,  and  comparatively  economical.  Tapioca 
is  a  very  pure  form  of  starch,  prepared  from  the 
root  of  a  tropical  plant,  which  in  the  "West  Indies 
is  called  “  Cassava,"  and  in  South  America,  “  Man- 
dioca"  and  ^'■Tapioca."  Though  a  shrub,  the  plant 
attains  perfection  in  less  than  a  year,  reaching  the 
hight  of  C  or-  8  feet  from  a  large  and  fleshy  root, 
which  often  weighs  as  much  as  20  pounds.  Botanists 
have  given  the  plant  the  names  of  Janipha  Manihot, 
and  Jdtropha  Manihot,  the  former  being  the  one 
most  generally  adopted.  The  shape  of  its  leaves 
and  its  general  habit  are  shown  in  the  engraving. 
When  the  fleshy  root  is  grated  or  rasped,  the  starch 
it  contains  is  liberated,  and  this,  after  washing,  is 
dried  by  artificial  heat,  which  causes  the  grains  to 
cohere  and  form  irregular  masses.  The  character 
of  the  starch  is  somewhat  changed  by  heat,  which 
causes  it  to  have  a  peculiar  gelatinous  character 
when  cooked.  There  arc  two  varieties  of  the 
plant,  the  sweet  and  bitter,  both  of  which  are  used 
in  preparing  tapioca.  The  root  of  the  sweet  variety 
is  eatable  and  harmless,  while  that  of  the  bitter  is 
actively  poisonous.  This  statement  need  cause  no 
one  to  regard  tapioca  with  suspicion,  as  all  the  de¬ 
leterious  matter  is  washed  away  in  preparing  it. 
Starch,  in  whatever  plant  it  may  be  found,  is  harm¬ 
less,  and  we  have  an  illustration  in  the  common 
potato,  of  the  fact  that  a  valuable  starchy  food  may 
be  yielded  by  a  plant  otherwise  poisonous,  it  being 
well  established  that  the  potato  vines  and  fruit, 
or  balls  contain  a  powerfully  poisonous  principle. 

There  is  a  very  great  difference  in  the  quality  of 
tapioca  pudding,  as  prepared  by  housekeepers. 
Some  make  a  thin  insipid  compound,  while  others 
prepare  an  excellent  well  flavored  dessert,  having 
the  consistence  of  a  fully  baked  custard.  A 


lady  furnishes  for  the  American  Agriculturist  the 
following  two  modes  of  making  Tapioca  Pudding  : 

1.  — To  a  quart  of  milk  add  a  teacupful  of 
tapioca,  and  let  it  stand  for  an  hour  or  two  in  a 
warm  place  on  the  stove  or  range,  to  swell  out. 
Stir  in  half  a  teaspoonful  of  salt,  three  well  beaten 
eggs,  sugar  to  the  taste,  flavoring  with  vanilla  or 
nutmeg,  or  both.  Then  bake  like  custard.  (Most 
persons  do  not  bake  it  enough  to  suit  our  taste. 
We  prefer  it  pretty  well  done,  and  to  be  eaten 
when  partly  cold;  others  prefer  it  left  more  moist.) 

2.  — The  other  method  is  similar  to  the  above,  but 
when  ready  for  baking,  the  bottom  of  the  dish  is 
covered  with  tart  apples,  pared, and  the  cores  taken 
out  without  cutting  the  apples  in  pieces,  or  they 
may  be  quartered,  and  over  them  the  prepared  tapi¬ 
oca  is  poured  and  baked  until  the  apples  are  well 
cooked.  This  preparation  will  require  a  pudding 


sauce  of  some  kind.  Beaten  butter  and  sugar  (hard 
sauce)  flavored,  is  very  good.  Some  like  a  wine  or 
lemon  (soft)  sauce  with  the  hard.  The  hard  sauce 
goes  well  with  the  simple  pudding,  first  described. 


How  to  Carve  Well, 


The  short  article  on  page  286  (September)  an¬ 
swers  so  well  as  preliminary  to  what  we  now  write, 
that  a  reference  to  it  is  a  suffleient  introduction. 

At  this  time  of  the  year  most  country  people  are 
supposed  to  have  roast  turkeys  to  carve,  and  though 
we  ought  logically  to  select  a  simpler  subject  at 
first,  upon  which  to  give  a  lesson  in  carving,  a  more 
attractive  one  it  would  be  hard  to  find.  A  roast 
turkey  should  come  to  the  table  on  its  back,  with 
its  wings  close  to  the  body,  not  turned  upon  the 
back ;  with  its  legs  also  close  to  the  body,  the  ends  of 
the  “drum-sticks”  being  close  together,  one  on  each 
side  of  the  tail,  or  “  Pope’s  nose.”  The  carver 
should  insert  firmly  the  2-tined  carving  fork,  held 
with  the  guard  away  from  him,  one  tine  going 
on  each  side  of  the  breast  bone  about  an  inch  back 
from  the  front  end.  Here  it  penetrates  the  bone 
easily  and  holds  well,  so  well  indeed  that  the  bird 
may  be  safely  lifted  by  it.  It  is  usually  an  object  to 
help  every  person  at  the  table  to  a  satisfactory 
piece.  Almost  every  one  likes  the  breast,  some 
prefer  the  brown  meat.  The  wing,  if  crisp  and  not 
too  dry,  is  a  favorite  part  with  many,  but  the  drum¬ 
sticks  few  take  of  choice — though,  if  well  cooked, 
having  been  properly  basted  and  not  allowed  to 
dry  hard,  they  are  very  delicious.  A  good  carver 
will  cut  off  but  little  of  the  breast  with  the  wings, 
nor  will  he  leave  so  much  meat  on  the  thighs  that 


METHOD  OP  CARVING  A  TURKEY. 


ho  will  not  be  able  to  give  brown  meat  to  those 
who  do  not  get  either  a  thigh  or  a  side  bone.  It  is 
a  very  awkward  thing  sometimes  to  trim  and  reduce 
the  size  of  a  piece  of  meat,  before  placing  it  upon 
the  plate  of  a  guest,  hence  it  is  best  to  cut  off  from 
the  fowl  just  such  pieces  as  you  wish  to  help  to. 

The  fork  being  firmly  in  the  left  hand,  with  a 
sharp  .and  pointed  knife,  the  carver  may  cut  down 
and  open  the  joint  a  little  at  B,  then  passing  the 
knife  under  the  wing  and  up  to  the  joint,  cutting 
the  tendons,  turn  the  left  wing  off  with  case ;  or  he 
may  first  remove  the  flight  p.art  of  the  wing,  p.as- 
siug  the  knife  from  G  up  to  the  second  joint  of  the 
wing,  and  turning  this  part  off  first,  afterwards  re¬ 
moving  the  other  part  at  B,  as  described.  If  it  is 
desir.able,  a  portion  of  the  breast  may  be  easily  re¬ 
moved  at  the  same  time  with  the  wing. 

The  carver  next  removes  the  thigh  on  the  same 
side.  The  knife,  pointing  forward,  may  be  passed 
down  between  the  thigh  and  the  carcass  nearly  to 
the  joint,  and  then  turned  so  as  to  separ.ate  at  one 
movement  “  drum-stick,”  thigh,  and  almost  all  the 
brown  meat  on  one  side  of  the  bird  ;  this  involves 
subsequent  dissection  and  cutting  up  on  the  platter, 
or  upon  another  plate.  It  is  much  neater  to  take 
off  the  drum-stick  first,  which  is  done  by  strik¬ 
ing  a  light  but  true  blow  .at  E,  cutting  the  joint 
on  the  top,  then  passing  the  knife  under  the  joint 
and  turning  it  off;  and  then,  to  remove  the  thigh, 
first  cutting  down  on  e.ach  side  of  it,  so  that  it  will 
not  tear  aw.ay  much  meat  with  it  when  it  is  taken  off 

One  side  is  now  clear,  and  the  whole  of  the  breast 
untouched.  Holding  the  sharp  knife  obliquely, 
beginning  just  above  A,  and  cut  thin  slices  down  to 
the  bone,  following  pretty  nearly  the  lines  drawn — 
according  to  the  size  of  the  bird.  'When  the  slices 
are  all  cut,  the  knife  m.ay  be  slipped  down  under 
them,  and  remove  them  all  at  once.  Now,  turning 
the  fowl  on  the  untouched  side,  the  carver  puts  his 
knife  by  the  side  of  the  tail,  and  about  half  an  inch 
from  the  line  of  the  back  bone  ;  he  forces  it  along 
nearly  to  the  thigh  joint  B,  through  the  thin  bone 
which  lies  before  it,  keeping  about  the  same  dis¬ 
tance  from  the  back  bone,  when  a  slight  twist 
throws  off  the  “  side  bone  ”  clear,  with  the  most 
delicate  meat  of  the  fowl  upon  it.  All  this  is  done 
without  removing  the  fork.  If  the  supply  cut  off 
is  likely  to  be  sufficient,  the  fork  is  withdrawn  and 
the  guests  served.  It  will  be  very  easy  to  select  a 
piece  of  white  and  of  brown  meat  for  each  one,  or 
to  give  each  his  favorite  piece,  and  not  overload 
any  phatc  with  bones.  The  bird  being  Laid  upon 
the  carved  side,  makes  a  htindsome  dish  for  a  cold 
lunch.  When  the  whole  turkey  is  needed  at  once, 
it  is  usually  best  to  carve  h.alf  at  first  and  dispense 
it,  then  to  dispatch  the  other  half  in  the  same  w.ay. 

.  Many  carvers  attempt  to  remove  the  “  wish¬ 
bone,”  or  “  merry-thought,”  as  they  would  that  of 
a  chicken.  It  is  not  worth  while,  but  it  may  be 
taken  off  after  the  white  meat  of  both  sides  is 
chiefly  removed,  by  passing  the  knife  down  in  front 
of  the  fork  towards  the  neck  ;  and  after  its  remov.al, 
the  “key -bones”  may  be  taken  off  b}'  passing  the 
point  of  the  knife  under  the  joint  at  B,  and  up 
towards  the  fork  some  3  inches,  or  more,  and  then 
breaking  the  bones  from  their  attachments  by 
prying  them  up.  In  a  young  bird  this  is  easy,  but 
in  an  old  one  hard  and  awkward.  The  operation, 
however,  rescues  some  very  nice  white  meat,  which 
might  be  overlooked  and  left  upon  the  carcass. 

Coni.  Bread.— Take  three  pints  of  water, 
put  in  a  vessel,  let  come  to  the  boil,  put  in  a  table- 


383 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Decembeb, 


spoonful  of  salt,  add  meal  to  thicken,  and  boil  a  few 
minutes,  then  take  off  and  put  in  three  pints  of  water 
to  cool,  add  two  eggs  and  thicken  again  with  meal. 
Set  aside  covered  in  a  warm  place  for  about  six 
hours  to  rise,  and  then  hake  with  a  hot  fire  about 
one  hour — and  if  left  in  the  oven  moderately 
warm  for  a  few  hours,  it  wiil  be  still  better. 

■  I  »  ,1  ,  . 

About  Keeping  Warm. 

A  short  article  on  this  subject  in  the  last  number 
(page  358),  it  would  be  worth  whUe  for  the  reader 
to  refer  to,  as  we  continue  the  subject  of — 

Warm  Houses. — Windows  and  doors  can  hardly  be 
made  air-tight,and  however  warm  the  walls,  a  house 
receiving  a  good  deal  of  cold  air  from  these  sources, 
will  be  cold.  In  old  times,  when  we  had  much 
looser  fitting  windows  and  doors  than  we  now  have, 
and  at  the  same  time  no  end  of  wood  to  be  burned, 
people  were  healthy  and  tolerably  comfortable  with 
their  immense  fires.  To  be  sure  they  were  “roasted 
on  one  side  and  frozen  on  the  other  at  the  same 
time,”  but  they  breathed  fresh  .air,  and  that  aided 
in  keeping  up  the  internal  heat,  by  an  abundant 
supply  of  pure  oxygen.  Our  readers  doubtless 
understand  the  philosophy  of  keeping  up  the  an¬ 
imal  heat :  how  that  a  portion  of  the  food  we  eat  is 
the  fuel,  and  the  air  we  breathe  fans  the  flame  as 
truly  as  the  wind  from  a  bellows  driven  among 
glowing  coals.  Pure  air  is  essential  to  keeping  a 
heaithy  internal  warmth,  not  only  because  it  con¬ 
tains  more  oxygen,  but  because  foul  air  piroduces 
a  stupefying  effect,  which  interferes  with  the  func¬ 
tions  and,  so  to  speak,  makes  a  bad  draught. 

In  the  last  volume  (page  273,  Sept.,  1864),  in 
writing  on  the  subject  of  ventilation,  we  recom¬ 
mended  for  winter  ventilation  a  “  register  ”  in  the 
floor  at  the  coldest  part  of  the  room,  connected  by 
a  trunk  under  the  floor  with  an  unused  flue  in  a 
warm  chimney.  Such  an  arrangement  draws  off 
the  air  from  the  floor  where  the  air  is  the  coldest. 
If  the  cold  air  be  thus  drawn  off,  other  air  must 
come  in,  which  indeed  will  be  cold  too,  perhaps,  but 
which,  even  in  rooms  warmed  by  stoves  and  made 
very  close,  will  come  more  or  less  in  contact  with 
the  warm  air  of  the  room  and  be  itself  warmed, 
while  the  air  of  the  room  either  coming  against  the 
windows  or  mingling  with  the  coid  air,  becomes 
chilled  and  settling  to  the  floor  is,  to  a  considerable 
extent  drawn  off,  and  by  this  process  a  constant 
circulation  of  air  and  ventilation  are  secured  in 
connection  with  warmth  more  evenly  distributed. 

Caulked  windows  and  listed  doors,  exclude  to  a 
great  extent  the  extern.al  air,  if  the  work  is  well 
done.  It  is  true  that  walls,  which  are  not  papered, 
admit  much  air  directly  through  them,  as  explained 
in  last  month’s  article,  but  this  supply  is  not 
reliable.  When  the  windows  are  caulked,  paper 
pasted  over  the  cracks,  and  the  doors  shut  tight, 
and  are  listed  besides,  and  especially  if  the  walls 
are  papered,  some  means  must  be  employed  to  in¬ 
troduce  a  supply  of  fresh  air.  This  should  enter 
the  room  either  p^reviously  warmed,  or  in  close 
pjroximity  to  the  stove.  To  secure  the  health 
of  a  family,  or  of  school  children,  pure  air  is  much 
more  important  than  warmth ;  but  with  pure  air 
much  less  warmth  in  the  room  makes  it  comfortable. 

■■■  ^  >  . .  II*  i.ii  — 

Greasing  Boots  and  Shoes  Too  Much. 


It  is  a  mistaken  notion  that  coating  the  leather 
thoroughly  with  grease  or  Avater-proof  blacking 
keeps  the  feet  dry  and  Avarm.  Tlie  feet  of  every 
person  in  health  perspire  more  or  less — the  exhala¬ 
tions  from  the  feet  atone  Aisually  amount  to  scA'eral 
spoonfuls  of  Avatcr  daily.  If  this  be  confined  by 
having  the  leather  saturated  with  oil,  or  varnish 
blacking,  or  by  wearing  tight  India  rubber  over- 
sliocs,  the  feet  are  kept  damp  and  chilly,  and  the 
moisture  tends  to  rot  the  leather.  The  better  Avay 
is  to  not  grease  boots  or  shoes  at  all,  except  to  oc- 
c.asionally  put  on  a  slUjht  surface  coat  of  oil  when 
the  feet  arc  likely  to  be  exposed  to  much  Avatcr,  to 
shed  it  off.  We  have  not  for  several  years  gre.ased 
our  boots  at  all,  except  one  coat  on  thehoUomsvihzw 


new,  and  a  pair  usually  gives  us  over  a  full  year’s 
wear.  We  keep  a  light  pair  of  rubber  sandals, 
which  are  only  worn  whep  walking  or  standing  on 
wet  ground,  and  are  removed  on  going  into  the 
house  or  offlee.  It  is  a  decided  luxury,  as  Avell  as 
promotive  of  health,  to  keep  two  pairs  of  socks  in 
use,  and  change  them  the  latter  part  of  the  day, 
when  those  on  the  feet  are  damped  by  perspiration. 
A  minute’s  time  spent  in  changing  will  add  much 
to  one’s  comfort  for  the  rest  of  the  day  and  even¬ 
ing.  Kemember  that  it  is  the  dampness  from  the 
feet  themselves  that  usually  keeps  the  feet  cold. 
It  is  the  confining  of  this  in  the  leather  that  leads 
to  the  supposition  that  rubber  shoes  are  injurious 
to  boots,  when  kept  constantly  on  the  feet.  The 
varnish  and  water-proof  blackings  are  generally  of 
far  more  injury  than  benefit  to  either  feet  or  leather. 

- - - - — I  - - 

Hints  on  Cooking,  etc. 

Salt  Codllsli  malies  tnood  Food. — 

This  Avill  be  “  poohed  at  ”  by  many  housekeepers, 
for  the  reason  probably  that  they  have  never  cooked 
the  fish  right.  Yet  it  is  a  pity  to  have  so  convenient 
and  cheap  an  article  of  food  rejected,  when  fresh 
meat  is  20  to  40  cents  a  pound,  and  not  always  to 
be  obtained,  while  dried  salt  fish  can  be  kept  on 
hand  at  all  seasons,  ready  for  anj'  emergency.  First 
buy  good  codfish,  those  that  are  clean  and  white,  and 
not  spoiled  in  the  curing,  as  evidenced  by  a  strong- 
odor.  Pick  the  fish  into  very  small  shreds,  and  soak 
over  night  in  plenty  of  Avatcr,  or  freshen  by  boiling 
in  tAvo  Avaters  and  plenty  of  it  each  time.  When 
thus  freed  from  all  excess  of  salt,  add  milk  with  a 
thickening  of  flour  well  ■  stirred  in,  and  cook  thor¬ 
oughly  without  any  scorching.  A  beaten  egg  or 
two  materially  improves  it.  If  rightly  prepared  at 
first,  a  little-  salt  may  be  needed.  Such  a  dish  is  not 
only  palatable,  but  it  is  easily  digested  and  contains 
much  nourishment.  The  usual  trouble  is  that  for 
Avant  of  picking  fine  at  first,  there  are  some  pieces 
not  soaked  and  freshened  through,  and  these  injure 
the  flavor.  We  have  eaten  a  fiiir  dish  made  by 
soaking  large  pieces  of  salt  codfish  for  24  hours  or 
more  in  plenty  of  water,  changing  it  twice  or 
thrice.  Then  roll  in  flour  and  fry  like  any  fresh  fish. 

Apple  Sawce  Ai-^vays  S£ea«ly. — There 
are  a  thousand  Avays  in  which  a  skillful  housekeeper 
can  economize  labor  and  food  also.  Here  is  one 
item  :  When  the  apples  are  gathered  or  purchased, 
there  are  always  more  or  less  of  them  bruised  and 
some  already  beginning  to  I'ot.  Sort  these  out,  and 
at  one  job  make  up  a  large  batch  of  apple  sauce, 
cooking  and  sweetening  it  all  ready  to  put  upon  the 
table.  Dip  this  into  glass  jars ;  cover  air-tight.  It 
Avill  thus  keep  a  long  time,  and  be  always  ready  to 
bring  upon  the  table,  and  besides  saAdng  the  fruit 
from  decay,  also  saves  the  frequent  making  up  of 
sauce.  We  preserve  all  fruit  in  the  Baker  (Potter 
&  Bodine)  Jar.  Enough  of  these  jars  are  usually 
emptied  of  str.awberries,  peaches,  etc.,  by  December, 
to  hold  the  sauce  made  by  a  bushel  or  more  of 
apples.  When  emptied  of  the  apple  sauce,  they 
are  refilled,  and  thus  the  same  set  of  jars  are  often 
used  half  a  dozen  times  during  the  year.  The  above 
plan  of  making  up  a  large  batch  of  apple  sauce 
Avhile  about  it,  and  of  having  a  stock  always  ready, 
besides  the  saving  of  the  apples  that  would  other- 
Avise  decay,  is  Avorthy  of  adoption,  even  if  we  have 
to  buy  a  dozen  or  two  extra  jars  for  this  purpose. 

Fradding'  gaiacc :  dacai»  and  Oood. 

At  this  time,  Avhen  butter  is  scarce,  or  at  least  a 
high  priced  commodity  (with  us  60  to  70  cents  a 
pound  for  the  best),  pudding  sauces  and  the  like, 
requiring  much  butter,  are  cxpensiAm  luxuries.  A 
lady  at  our  request  furnished  for  the  Agriculturist 
a  recipe  for  making  an  economic.al  sauce,  which  is 
certainly  a  good  one  Avhen  made  by  her :  To  a  pint 
of  hot  w.ater  add  one  tcacupful  of  sugar,  butter  the 
size  of  a  walnut,  and  a  little  flour  thickening  pre¬ 
viously  beaten  Avith  the  yolk  of  an  egg.  Boil,  stir¬ 
ring  Avell,  and  while  still  hot  pour  into  a  dish  in 
Avhicli  the  Avhite  of  the  egg  has  been  beaten  to  a 
froth,  stirring  thoroughly  together ;  flavor  to  the 
taste.  It  Avill  be  found  of  very  light  texture  and 
agreeable  taste,  superior  to  tliat  made  Avith  the  use 


of  a  much  larger  quantity  of  butter,  and  of  course 
a  good  deal  cheaper  and  more  easily  digestible. 

"  *  «  fcWBCfii  I  ^ . — 

IBraisiiig. — This  is  a  French  word  for  a  metli- 
od  of  cooking  meats,  which  Avas  very  common  be¬ 
fore  cooking  stoves  were  so  generally  used.  The 
vessel  employed  is  the  oW-fashioned  bake  pan  or 
bake  kettle  ;  a  shallow  kettle  with  a  cover  arranged 
to  hold  coals,  and  is  noAV  to  be  found  in  many  old- 
fashioned  kitchens.  Meats  cooked  slowly  and  for 
a  long  time  in  a  braising  or  bake  pan,  Avith  the 
steam  confined  around  them,  have  a  richness  of 
flavor  not  otherwise  obtained.  The  meat  should 
be  Avell  browned,  and  Avater  enough  added  from 
time  to  time  to  prevent  burning,  and  form  a  rich 
gravy  with  the  juice  of  the  meat.  Veal,  usu.ally  so 
badly  cooked,  becomes,  Avhen  treated  in  this  way, 
a  delicious  morsel,  and  if  any  one  wishes  to  know 
how  good  ham  can  be,  let  them  try  a  thick  slice 
cooked  long  and  slOAvly  in  the  pan.  In  the  most 
recent  French  Avorks  on  cooking,  we  find  the  plan 
followed  by  our  grandmothers  still  recommended. 


BOYS  ^  ©OOTMMS, 


Xlie  Bliast  B>ay  of  Tlac  Acar. 


When  a  boy  at  school  has  written  the  last  line  of  his 
copy  book,  he  likes  to  look  over  it,  page  by  page,  and 
notice  what  his  progress  has  been,  see  what  mistakes 
liave  been  made  and  corrected,  and  what  improvement 
is  shown.  He  sees  how  blots  have  disfigured  some  lines, 
and  he  remembers  how  some  of  them  occurred ;  there  is 
a  very  nicely  written  page,  and  he  is  still  happy  with  the 
praise  he  received  when  it  was  examined  by  his  teacher ; 
at  almost  every  step  he  may  find  something  of  interest. 
December  31st  will  be  the  last  page  of  one  A’olume  in  life. 
In  this  book  of  365  pages,  which  was  blank  at  the  begin¬ 
ning  of  this  year,  have  been  written  all  the  scenes,  ac¬ 
tions,  words  and  thoughts  ot  twelve  months.  Many  of 
them  are  fresh  in  memory,  and  may  be  easily  reviewed. 

“  ’Tis  greatly  wise  to  question  our  past  hours. 

And  ask  them  what  report  they  bore  to  Heaven.” 

In  thus  recalling  the  past,  what  events  are  pleas\ir- 
ablenow  ?  Of  the  enjoyment  derived  from  the  appetites, 
though  very  keen  at  the  time,  nothing  is  left  now.  Some 
things  that  gave  great  pleasure  for  a  little  season,  are  now 
recalled  with  pain.  Like  some  fruits,  they  were  sweet 
to  the  taste,  but  left  bitterness  and  nausea  afterward. 
Cruel  or  mischievous  sports,  words  by  which  the  feel¬ 
ings  of  others  were  wounded,  advantages  gained  by  un¬ 
fair  dealing,  or  in  plain  English,  by  cheating,  selfish  tri¬ 
umphs  over  the  less  fortunate ;  in  short,  whatever  the 
conscience  can  not  now  approve,  makes  the  past  sorrow¬ 
ful  to  the  memory.  But  every  kind  act  or  word,  especi¬ 
ally  if  it  cost  self  denial,  every  mastery  over  temptation, 
every  gain  in  useful  knowledge — all  things  good,  pure 
and  noble— give  unmixed  happiness.  How  many  of  our 
young  friends  will  practise  upon  the  lesson  this  teaches  ? 
The  library  of  life  we  are  now  making  up,  the  years  that 
pass  so  SAA'iftly,  will  furnish  food  for  thought  in  all  the 
future  ;  it  is  then  of  infinite  importance  that  all  the  vol¬ 
umes  be  filled  with  what  we  shall  love  to  reflect  upon. 
Thousands  of  items  in  life  have  passed  from  memory, 
and  can  never  be  recalled  in  this  world  ;  yet  not  one  of 
them  is  lost.  It  needs  only  a  change  of  condition  in  the 
spirit,  to  bring  them  all  vividly  to  view,  as  they  now  some¬ 
times  come  in  rapidly  before  the  mind  in  dreams,  when 
the  body  is  in  a  partially  dead  state — asleep— and  beside 
this,  their  influence  is  already  strongly  felt  in  the  charac¬ 
ter.  The  boy  who  has  frequently  given  way  to  anger  this 
j-ear,  is  now  more  passionate  than  ever  ;  the  trifler  is  less 
considerate  ;  the  vain  are  more  eager  for  praise  ;  the  wil¬ 
ful  are  more  stubborn.  So,  too,  the  affectionate  may 
have  grown  more  loving,  the  industrious  more  persever¬ 
ing,  and  every  virtue  may  have  been  strengthened  by 
exercise.  Surely  there  are  thoughts  enough  to  interest 
and  benefit  all  who  will  carefuily  review  the  past  on  the 
closing  day  of  the  year.  There  can  be  no  better  prepa¬ 
ration  for  entering  with  a  right  spirit  upon  the  new 
duties  and  opportunities  which  1866  will  bring. 

Sig^iialing-  in  tlie  Army — Sntei’cslijtg- 
Amnsemeut  for  Boys  or  Men. 

While  with  our  wounded  soldiers  around  Petersburg, 
■Va.,  last  year,  we  obtained  some  insight  into  how-  the 
officers  talked  with  each  other  at  a  distance,  by  means  of 
a  single  flag  by  day,  and  a  light  by  night.  An  explanation 
will  interest  older  persons  as  well  as  boys,  and  give  the 
latter  a  new  source  of  amusement.  One  or  two  men 
were  stationed  together,  on  high  points  u.sually,  as  on  a 


I860.] 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


383 


house,  or  on  a  hill,  or  in  a  tree,  but  sometimes  on  low 
ground.  Thus,  one  set  of  signal  men  .was  on  the  hill  at 
the  “  Friend  House,”  (from  which  we  wrote  to  the  Ag- 
riculturist  July  4th,  1884)  j  another  in  a  field  a  little 
west,  from  which  tliey  could  see  tlie  men  in  a  higli  tower 
four  miles  north,  at  Point  of  Rocks.  These  two  could 
see  others  on  high  ground  at  City  Point,  at  General 
Grant’s  headquarters,  and  these  again  could  see 
others  on  a  high  point  several  miles  down  the  James  Riv¬ 
er.  Indeed  there  was  a  chain  of  these  stations  at  va¬ 
rious  distances  apart  from  all  round  Petersburg,  on  to 
City  Point,  and  up  and  down  more  than  a  hundred  miles 
of  the  James  River.  Usually  there  were  relays  of  men, 
two  and  two,  at  each  station,  one  to  make  signals,  and 
the  other  to  watch  and  read  the  motions  made  attlie  next 
station  on  either  side.  Now  for  the  signals.  (We  of 
course  did  not  pry  into  the  secrets  of  the  signal  men,  and 
only  describe  the  operations  as  they  appeared  to  others. 
The  actual  signals  and  numbers  are  probably  quite  dif¬ 
ferent  from  those  we  have  described.  We  only  aim  to 
give  a  general  idea  of  the  subject.) 

Suppose  certain  numbers  to  be  used  for  tlie  letters  of  the 
alphabet,  as  3  for  A  ;  21  for  B  ;  13  for  C;  42  for  D;  2  for 
jB  ;  22  for  F ;  44  for  G  ;  12  for  H;  and  so  on  for  the  whole 
alphabet.  These  numbers  can  be  changed  every  day, 
or  every  week  or  month,  or  as  often  as  it  is  feared  they 
are  discovered  by  others.  To-day,  44  may  stand  for  G, 
and  to-morrow  it  may  stand  for  some  other  letter,  if  all 
the  signal  men  privately  understand  the  change.  You 
will  see  that  the  four  figures  1,  2, 3  and  4,  can  be  combined 
to  represent  the  whole  alphabet  and  be  changed  ever  so 
many  times.  It  is  then  only  necessary  for  the  signal-men 
to  use  these  four  figures.  Suppose  that  holding  the  flag 
by  day,  or  a  light  at  night,  straight  over  the  head  to  stand 
fori,  holding  it  to  the  ground  in  front  to  stand  for  2,  hol¬ 
ding  it  to  the  right  to  stand  for  3,  and  holding  it  to  the 
left,  for  4.  By  the  above  supposed  numbers,  swinging 
it  to  the  right  stands  for  A  ;  putting  it  down  in  front  (2) 
and  quickly  raising  it  over  head  (1),  stands  for  B  ;  throw¬ 
ing  it  to  the  left  (4)  and  then  to  the  front  (2),  stands  for  D  ; 
twice  to  the  left  for  G,  and  so  on.  The  expert  signal 
men  make  these  quick  motions  of  the  flag  or  light,  for 
letters,  almost  as  fast  as  one  can  write  the  letters  them¬ 
selves',  and  the  distant  signal  man,  witli  his  eye,  or  aided 
by  a  telescope,  sees  and  understands  just  what  is  said  to 
liim  ;  .and  if  need  be,  lie  sends  on  the  words  in  the  same 
w'ay  to  the  next  station,  and  from  these  to  the  next.  We 
have  seen  an  officer  talking  to  another  four  miles  off, 
simply  by  quietly  calling  over  to  the  flag  man  at  his  side, 
21, 14,  33,  14,  22,  41,  34,  etc.  Once  we  saw  a  mortar  being 
fired  at  the  Petersburg  bridge,  from  a  pit  down  by  the 
Appomattox,  where  tliey  could-  not  see  the  bridge  at  ail ; 
but  an  officer  by  us  on  the  hill,  where  he  could  see  it,  di¬ 
rected  with  his  flag  to  fire  lower,  liigher,  to  the  right,  to 
tlie  left,  how  many  seconds  for  the  fuse,  etc. 

With  these  explanations,  two  boys  can  write  down  any 
numbers  they  choose  for  the  alphabet,  and  then  go  half  a 
mile  or  more  apart  each  with  a  flag,  and  talk  together  as 
much  as  they  like,  and  it  will  botlier  any  one  else  to 
know  what  they  are  saying.  Two  can  talk  across  a  room 
in  the  same  way,  and  even  use  a  finger  instead  of  a  flag. 

'fwo  BLiively  OHt=d.ooi*  Cwames. 

No.  1 :  called  Prison  Base,  is  well  known  in  some 
localities,  but  will  be  new  to  many.  It  gives  capital  ex¬ 
ercise  and  sport  for  boys  at  school,  during  the  “  recess.” 
Two  boys,  generally  the  swiftest  runners,  act  as  leaders, 

and  clioose  sides 
from  the  otliers. 
Four  spaces,  1,2, 
3,  4,  are  marked 
in  a  square,  one 
in  eacli  corner, 
and  about  sixty 
feet  apart.  A 
space  is  also 
marked  in  the 
middle  of  the 
square,  as  sliown 
at  5.  The  spaces 
1  and  2,  are  cal¬ 
led  the  bases ;  the 
middle  space  is  “  Chevy,"  and  3  and  4  are  the  prisons. 
To  begin,  the  boys  of  the  two  sides  station  themselves  at 
1  and  2.  One  boy  (a),  from  No.  1,  goes  out  to  “  Chevy,” 
and  calls  out  “  Chevy,  chevy,  chase  ;  once,  twice, 
thrice.”  Then  one  of  the  opposite  side  (J,)  tries  to  touch 
a  before  he  can  return  to  his  base  j  if  i  succeeds,  he  sends 
a  to  the  prison  at  3.  But  while  h  is  trying  to  capture  a, 
another  boy,  c,  from  No.  1,  starts  after  b,  a.ad  if  c  touch¬ 
es  b  before  b  has  taken  a  prisoner,  or  before  he  can  re¬ 
turn  to  his  own  base,  if  he  has  made  no  capture,  then  b 
must  go  to  prison  at  4.  The  general  rule  of  the  game  is, 
that  any  "boy  absent  from  his  base,  may  be  caught  and  im¬ 
prisoned  by  one  of  the  opposite  side,  who  left  his  base 
subsequent  to  the  boy  whom  he  is  pursuing.  The  boys 


of  each  side  try  to  rescue  the  prison¬ 
ers  belonging  to  their  own  party,  by 
touching  them  without  themselves  be¬ 
ing  caught.  A  boy  can  take  only  one 
prisoner  without  returning  to  liis  base, 
and  any  boy  is  exempt  from  capture 
while  taking  a  captive  to  prison,  or 
bringing  home  one  he  has  released. 

The  game  continues  until  all  of  one 
party  are  imprisoned.  The  boys  of 
each  side  should  implicitly  obey  the 
directions  of  their  leader,  who  has  an 
opportunity  to  display  much  general¬ 
ship  in  the  management  of  his  forces. 

No.  2  ;  “  Every  man  in  his  own  Den," 
is  similar  and  will  be  a  favorite.  In 
this,  each  boy  selects  his  own  “den,” 
choosing  some  tree,  post,  stone,  or 
corner.  One  boy  starts  out  for  a 
“  lead,”  and  the  others  try  to  touch 
him  before  he  can  get  back  to  his  den. 

Any  boy  louched  by  one  who  has  left 
his  ow  n  den  more  recently,  must  ac¬ 
company  ids  captor  home,  and  aid  him 
in  catching  others.  The  game  con¬ 
tinues  until  ail  are  taken  to  some  one 
den,  the  master  of  which  thus  becomes 
^he  victor,  and  has  his  choice  of  dens. 

Holiday  Iia-door  CBamies. 

Fox  AND  Chickens. — All  the  com¬ 
pany  except  two,  the  fox  and  one 
chicken,  form  a  double  circle,  that  is, 
each  one  in  tlie  outer  circle  having 
one  standing  before  him.  The  fox 
pursues  the  odd  chicken  around  the 
out-side  of  the  circle,  and  the  latter 
when  tired  or  in  danger  of  being 
caught,  darts  into  the  inner  circle  and  stations  him¬ 
self  before  one  of  the  couples,  thus  making  three  in 
line.  The  third  one  standing  behind,  or  in  the  outer 
circle,  then  becomes  the  odd  chicken  and  runs,  because 
liable  to  be  caught  by  the  fox.  When  the  latter  catches 
his  chicken  he  takes  his  place  in  the  inner  circle,  the  cap¬ 
tured  chicken  becomes  fox,  and  thus  the  game  goes  on. 
It  is  a  lively  and  not  boisterous  play, for  both  boys  and  girls. 

Shadow  Buff. — A  white  sheet  is  suspended  from  the 
ceiling  and  stretched  by  weights  at  the  bottom,  to  form  a 
screen.  The  “  detective”  sits  on  one  side  of  this  screen, 
and  the  company  one  by  one  pass  before  it  on  tlie  other 
side.  A  strong  light  is  placed  beyond  them  so  that  while 
passing,  the  shadow  of  each  will  fall  upon  the  screen. 
The  detective  must  try  to  name  the  person  correctly  by 
looking  at  the  shadow.  Of  course  each  one  of  tiie  com¬ 
pany  while  walking  before  the  screen  will  endeavor  to 
alter  his  gait  and  general  appearance.  When  one  is  cor¬ 
rectly  named  by  the  detective,  he  must  take  the.  place 
of  the  latter  until  he  can  detect  some  other  party. 

Puffers. — This  is  intended  for  little  children,  but  will 
also  amuse  the  older  ones  when  they  wisii  to  enjoy  a  lit¬ 
tle  nonsense.  The  company  sit  in  a  circle  ;  one  of  them 
blow-s  into  the  air  a  feather,  bit  of  cotton,  thistle  down, 
or  other  light  substance,  and  the  one  it  approaches  must 
puff  it  t-  keep  it  floating.  The  person  it  falls  nearest 
to,  or  who  blows  it  beyond  tlie  circle,  pays  a  forfeit. 

Amswei's  to  fi^roMems  amd  I®M*zles. 

The  following  is  the  explanation  of  the  puzzle  in  the 
November  number,  page  351;  Deer  children  eye  hoe 
p  ew  r  soap  lease  din  work  king  over  the  puzzle  col¬ 
umn  thatch  ewe  will  be  d  lighted  two  cc’s  o  long  a 
picture  letter  four  ewe  two  reed.  The  American  Agri¬ 
culturist  d  sires  two  inns  truck  tan  d ame  u's  and’ s  pear 
s  now  panes  two  do’s  so.  Sum  girts  s  and  boys  s  en  d  ancers 
two  every  puzzle,  and  men  e  mower  wood  bite  rye  ing. 
Lettuce  c  how  well  ewe  can  reed  this.  Or;  “Dearcliil- 
dren  I  hope  you  are  so  pleased  in  working  over  the 
puzzle  column  that  you  will  be  delighted  to  see  so 
long  a  picture  letter  for  you  to  read.  The  American 
Agriculturist  desires  to  instruct  and  amuse,  and  spares 
no  pains  to  do  so.  Some  girls  and  boys  send  answers  to 
every  puzzle,  and  many  more  would  by  trying.  Let  us 
see  how  well  you  can  read  this.” _ Answer  io  Math¬ 

ematical  Problem,  No.  175,  (October  Number).  B  was 
twenty  five  miles  from  Cooptown,  when  A  Imd 

arrived  there . The  following  have  sent  correc- 

answers  up  to  Nov.  4th.  Joseph  D.  Locey,  165;  Fide¬ 
lia  R.  Lord,  176,  178;  “  J.  A.  H.,”  and  “E.  A.  R.,” 
176,  177  ;  Wm.  H.  Paine,  176 ;  W.  J.,  jr.,  176,  178 ;  Fran¬ 
cis  M.  Priest,  176,  178;  George  R.  Careins,  175;  Benj. 
Doe,  175,  J.  L.  Creswell,  176,  178;  E.  Currens  Savage, 
175,  177  ;  C.  F.  Erhard,  175  ;  Mary  E.  Servoss,  176,  178  ; 
L.  Hatoe,  175;  Jim  R.  Hale,  176,  178;  J.  Green  Bundy, 
178;  John  Cotton,  179;  G.  Jones,  179  ;  Julia  B.  Pickett, 
179;  Mary  H.  McCord,  179  ;  “Subscriber,”  Sontliport, 
Conn.,  179;  Mary  E.  Servoss,  179  ;  D.  Lee  Shafer.  17'). 


I^’ow  l®iazzlcs  t©  'B»c  Ams’tTca’cal- 

(Answers  in  the  next  Paper.) 

No.  180.  Labyrinth. — Try  to  find  your  way  from  the 
entrance  to  the  center  of  the  above  labyrinth,  by  fol¬ 
lowing  tlie  proper  path.  The  small  double  lines  represent 
bridges,  under  or  over  which  the  traveler  must  pass. 


No.  181.  Illustrated  Rebus. — Wisdom  in  rliyrne. 


No.  182.  Illustrated  Rebus.— Very  good  advice,  espec¬ 
ially  for  those  who  are  forming  habits  for  life. 


384 


AMEHICAN  AGRICULTURISTi 


[Decembeh, 


THE  CHRISTMAS  TREE.  —  Engraved  for  the  American  Agriculturist. 


CEaii*istBBia.S  is  Coamirng:. 

How  many  days  from  now  until  Christmas  ?  Our  boys 
and  girls  can  answer  tliat  question  without  stopping  to 
count;  they  have  been  reckoning  the  time  every  day  for 
weeks,  and  tlioughts  of  what  Christmas  is  to  bring  have 
given  pleasant  hours  and  brought  many  briglit  dreams. 
One  little  fellow  lias  been  gliding  about  (in  imagination) 
half  the  summer  on  a  pair  of  Christmas  skates  ;  and  some 
of  the  girls  are  sure  that  a  new  set  of  dishes  for  the  play¬ 
house  will  come  this  time.  This  holiday  ought  to  open 
everybody’s  heart.  It  commemorates  the  greatest  and 
best  gift  to  man  ;  that  whicli  brings  within  his  reach  all 
other  good  things.  The  observance  of  this  season  is  be¬ 
coming  more  general  every  year.  In  Europe,  it  has 
been  kept  up  for  many  centuries  with  great  ceremonies, 
which  commence  the  previous  evening.  The  churches 
arc  splendidly  ornamented  with  evergreens  and  other 
decorations.  Solemn  service  is  lield  at  midnight,  and  all 
the  church  bells  arc  rung.  Formerly  parties  of  musi¬ 
cians  strolled  about  carrying  torches,  singing  Christmas 
carols,  dancing  and  carousing  ;  and  intemperate  rcveli  y 
was  the  order  of  the  night  and  of  several  days  following. 
This  jicrversion  of  the  proper  celebration  of  Christinas, 
and  the  superstitions  that  had  grown  up,  caused  many  to 
nondemn  all  Christmas  observances.  Latterly,  howev¬ 
er,  since  this  festival  is  kept  up  in  a  more  rational  man¬ 
ner,  it  is  becoming  more  po[iular,  and  the  stockings  hung 
by  the  chimney,  or  “Christmas  Trees,”  arc  found  in 
almost  every  household.  Our  engraving  this  month 
shows  a  Inqipy  group  around  the  Christmas  Tree,  enjoy¬ 
ing  the  gifts  provided  for  Diem  by  their  kind  friends. - 

We  wish  am,  our  readeu.s  a  “  Merry  Christmas.” 

'I’tic  B'^orcc  ol’  oai  a,  !^«E«E54»b% 

•V  friend  recently  related  the  follow  iiig  incident :  A 
young  man  who  had  lieen  for  years  a  soldier  became  in¬ 
sane,  and  was  confiiied  in  an  asylum.  Frevious  to  this 


he  had  been  much  attached  to  the  Governor  of  the  State 
wliere  he  lived,  but  during  his  insanity  he  conceived  a 
great  dislike  for  his  former  friend,  so  much  so  that  he  de¬ 
clared  his  purpose  of  killing  the  Governor  whenever 
he  should  meet  him.  One  day  he  escaped  from  confine¬ 
ment  and  by  some  means  procured  a  musket  with  bay¬ 
onet  attached.  Passing  along  the  street  he  met  the  Gov¬ 
ernor,  and  at  once  bringing  his  musket  to  the  “  charge  ” 
was  about  to  rush  upon  him.  The  Governor,  however, 
fortunately  did  not  lose  his  presence  of  mind,  but  in  a 
commanding  tone  gave  the  order  “  Halt.”  The  former 
soldier  from  mere  force  of  habit,  which  was  stronger 
than  even  his  insanity,  instantly  stopped.  “  Shoulder 
arms,”  continued  the  Governor,  “Rightabout  face,” 
“Forward,  march,”  and  each  order  was  promptly  obeyed, 
and  the  lunatic  soon  found  himself  in  his  proper  place. 

S’artiMg'  witla  am  Old  Friemd. 

In  a  hospital  at  Nashville,  during  the  war,  a  wounded 
hero  was  placed  on  the  amputating  table,  under  the  influ¬ 
ence  of  chloroform.  They  cut  off  his  right  arm  and  cast 
it,  all  bleeding,  upon  the  pile  of  human  limbs.  They  then 
laid  him  gently  upon  his  couch.  He  woke  from  his  stu¬ 
por  and  missed  his  arm.  With  his  left  arm  he  lifted  the 
cloth,  and  there  was  nothing  but  the  gory  stump  1 
“  AVhere’s  my  arm  ?”  he  cried  ;  “  get  my  arm  ;  I  want  to 
see  it  once  more— my  strong  right  arm.”  They  brought 
it  to  him.  He  took  hold  of  the  cold,  clammy  fingers,  and 
looking  steadfastly  at  the  poor  dead  member,  thus  ad¬ 
dressed  it  with  tearful  earnestness:  “  Good-by,  old  arm. 
We  have  been  a  long  time  together.  We  must  part  now. 
Good-by,  old  arm.  Yon’ll  never  fire  another  carbine  nor 
swing  another  saber  for  the  Government,”  and  Die  tears 
rolled  down  his  checks.  He  then  said  to  those  standing 
by,  “Understand,  I  don’t  regret  its  loss.  It  has  been 
torn  from  my  body  that  notone  State  .«houtd  be  torn  from 
this  glorious  Union.”  It  wa.s  by  such  heroic  devotion 
that  the  icbelUon  was  finally  overpowered. 


A  <Soo4l  Blasiy  ISoys  and  ®irls 

Are  now  engaged  in  getting  up  premium  clubs  of  sub¬ 
scribers,  and  several  hundreds,  if  not  thousands  of  them 
will  obtain  one  or  more  of  the  good  premiums  we  offer 
on  another  page.  At  least  one  of  them  will  have  the  16 
great  volumes  of  the  Cyclopedia,  and  anotiier  a  Mclodcon. 
A  great  many  will  carry  off  the  large  Dictionary,  and 
several  are  getting  Wringing  Machines  for  their  mothers. 
Very  many  are  to  have  books,  seeds,  grape  vines,  etc.,  etc. 
Weil,  there  is  room  enough  in  this  broad  country  for  a 
thousand  more  boys  and  girls  to  each  obtain  a  premium, 
and  the'  business  part  of  obtaining  subscribers  will  be 
useful  to  all  who  engage  in  it.  We  could  name  an  active 
young  man  in  business  in  Philadelphia,  whose  first 
business  experience  was  gained  while  a  farmer-boy  in 
New  Jersey,  in  getting  90  subscribers  for  the  Agricultur¬ 
ist.  ten  years  ago.  He  refers  to  it  with  ideasure,  as  his 
first  stepping  stone.  Lot  enterprising  boys  and  girls  try 
their  skill  this  month.  If  they  get  but  few  names  this 
year,  they  will  do  some  good  to  themselves  and  others, 
and  learn  how  to  do  more  another  yeiu'.  .Select  the  pre¬ 
mium  you  want  most  and  try  for  it.  The  premium 
offers  will  be  kept  open  several  months  yel,  but  begin  the 
work  to-day.  Send  the  names  on  every  week,  so  that 
people  may  begin  to  receive  the  jiaiier,  and  they  will 
help  you.  The  premium  will  be  sent  as  soon  as  all  the 
subscribers  required  are  received.  They  need  not  come 
all  together,  nor  all  from  the  same  post  oflice.  Only  let 
us  know  with  each  name  to  w  hom  it  is  to  be  credited  for 
a  premium.  Perhaps  your  father  will  help  you. 

Puzzi.es  for  the  Tongue. — Repeat  the  following 
rapidly  three  or  four  times  :  Six  gay  green  geese  greased. 
Also:  A  erntv  ,/lew  over  the  river  with  a  lump  of  raw 
liver.  Also:  Repeat  rapidly':  Mix  a  batch  of  bisruit. 

Bible  Questions. — What  did  Adam  first  plant  in 
the  Garden  ..f  Eden?  Whose  daughter  was  Noah'' 


1865.j 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


385 


(Business  Notices— $1  25  per  agate  iine  of  space.) 

A  Card. 


THE  NEW  YORE  T  I  M  E  S 


For  the  purpose  of  more  fuliy  supplying  llie  wants  of 
the  public,  anti  in  order  to  prevent  unscrupuious  deaiers 
from  palming  off  inferior  and  wortiiless  goods  as  the 
JIoRTON  Gold  Pens,  I  sliali  hearafter  sell  no  Goods 
AT  Wholesale  excepting  only  \.o  duiy  Appointed  and 
Authorized  Agents,  to  whom  a  Certificate  of  such  Agen¬ 
cy  wilt  be  given,  and  vvlio  alone  sliall  be  able  to  seil  the 
litonTON  Pens  in  that  city  or  viiiage. 

To  my  Agents  I  shatl  give  a  iiberai  discount  upon  their 
agreeing  to  supply  the  public  at  my  publislied  and  well 
kiiow'n  prices. 

Jewellers  or  Stationers  will,  in  all  cases,  be  preferred 
as  Agents. 

Conditions  and  Terms  for  Agency  will  be  stated  upon 
application,  by  letter  or  otherwise. 

Where  no  .Agency  is  established,  those  w  ishing  the 
Horton  Pen  must  send  to  my  store,  where  prompt  at¬ 
tention  will  be  given  to  their  orders. 

A  Circular,  with  fac-simile  Engravings  of  all  Sizes 
and  Prices,  will  be  sent  to  any  one  on  receipt  of  letter 
postage.  ’ 

Address  A.  Morton,  No.  25  Maiden-lane,  New-York. 

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Tlii  mmm  a  mmMU, 


Tlie  Choicest  of  Holiday  Gifts  this  Scasou  will  be 
JTEAN  INGELOW’S 

>so^vG^s  oi^ 

Xllia.sstrfi.'toca.o 

Tliis  beautiful  poem  descriptive  of  Seven  periods  in 
the  life  of  Woman,  lias  been  bi  ouglit  out  regardless  of 
expense.  It  contains  a  fine  portrait  of  tlie  aulhoiess, 
from  a  pliotograpli  furnislied  expressly  for  tliis  book,  and 
will  be  inucli  souglit  afler  by  the  many  admirers  of  this 
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$5  00  in  cloth,  $8.00  in  morocco. 

FOR  THE  BOYS,  we  liave  our  new  book  by  Capt. 
Marryatt,  author  of  “  Masterman  Ready,”  • 

THE  PKIYATEEHSMAW. 

Adventures  by  Sea  and  Land,  ftOO  Years  Ago. 
Beautifully  Illustrated.  Price,  $1.50. 

For  sale  by  all  Booksellers  and  mailed  post-paid  by 
tlie  Pnblisiiers.  ROBERTS  BROTHERS,  Boston. 
CEEiaGYMEN,  TEACHERS,  THE  PKESS 
nuite  in  saying  tliat  tlie  new  juvenile  magazine, 

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Is  tlie  best  magazine  for  tlie  young  ever  published  in  Ameri¬ 
ca.  It  is  filled  Willi  attractive  illustrations,  and  its  articles, 
in  prose  and  poetry,  are  by  the  best  writers  for  children  in 
tlie  country. 

It  is  sold  at  the  low  price  of  two  dollars  a  year.  Eacli 
number  contains  sixty-four  pages,  beautifully  printed.  A 
liberal  discount  to  clubs.  Send  20  cents  for  a  specimen  copy 
and  circular  to  tho  publishers, 

TICKNOU  &  FIELDS,  Boston. 

I-IOLI13^Y  G-IFTSo 
PHOTOGRAPH  ALBUMS 

GIVEN  AWAY. 

Send  for  a  Catalogue. 

B.  S.  FENTON  Si  CO., 

ISJG  Nassau-street, 
New-Yorlc. 

Claoice  Gaft  Hocak, 

TBie  Fotmatia-tious  of  Histosry, 

See  advertisement  iti  Noyember  AgricifUurisi, 


ADAPTED  TO  SECULAR  AND  SACRED  MUSIC. 

FOR 

DRAWING  ROOMS,  CHURCHES,  SCHOOLS,  Ac. 

Forty  Styles,  Flain  or  Eleg’aiit  Cases,  1  to  13  ^ttops. 

51^110  to  ^lOOO. 

They  occupy  little  space;  are  very  elegant  as  furniture;  not  liable  to  get  out  of  order  ^  and  are  securely  boxed 
so  that  they  can  be  sent  any  where  try  ordinary  freight  routes^  in  perfect  condition, 

Forty-Eight  Gold  or  Silver  Medals, 

or  otlier  liighest  premiums  have  been  awarded  to  Mason  &  Hamlin  within  a  few  years,  and  tliiileen  witliin  a  few 
weeks  ;  a  larger  number  it  is  believed,  than  liave  ever  been  taken  by  any  other  manufacture'-  of  instruments,  in  a 
similar  period. 

More  tltnia  TYvo  ISuntlred  and.  Fifty  of  line  inoi^t  Frominent  Artists 

and  l^insieians 

in  the  country  have  given  their  written  testimony  to  the  value  and  attractiveness  of  the  Mason  &  Hamlin  Cabinet 
Organs,  tlieir  adaptedness  to  private  and  public  use,  and  their  superiority  to  every  thing  else  of  the  class. 

*■  I  can  only  reiterate  wliat  so  many  in  the  musical  profession  have  said  befo're — tliat  for  equality,  promplness  and 
exquisite  lone,  they  are  iinequaled.  *  *  *  A  most  charming  addition  to  tlie  musical  resources  of  professional  as 
well  as  amateur  musicians.”— John  H.  Wilcox,  Boslon.  ‘-The  best  reed  instruments  made  in  the  world  are  made 
in  the  United  Slates,  and  your  Cabinet  Organs  are  greatly  superior  and  by  far  tlie  best  m.-ide  here.” — Max  JMaret- 
zek.  “Sure  to  find  its  way  into  every  household  of  laste  and  refinement  which  can  possibly  afford  its  moderate  ex¬ 
pense.” — L.  M,  Gotschalk.  “  Such  pure  musical  tones,  promptness  and  smoothness  of  action  and  fine  variety  ol 
effect  I  have  not  found  in  any  other  instrument  of  the  class.” — S.  B.  Mills,  New  York.  “  Tlie  best  instrument  of 
its  class  with  which  I  an;  acquainted,  and  worthy  a  place  in  every  drawing  room.” — Harry  Sanderson,  New  York. 
“  No  instrument  of  the  same  description  can  at  all  compare  witli  your  deliglilfiil  Cabinet  Organs.  *  *  “The  per¬ 
fection  which  you  have  attained  in  these  instruments  has  opened  a  new  field  for  the  interpretation  of  mucli  music  of 
a  higii  order  which  has-  heretofore  required  the  aid  of  several  instruments.” — B.  J.  Lang,  Boston.  “  Really  so  ex¬ 
cellent  that  there  can  iiardly  be  much  difference  of  opinion  respecting  them.” — W'illiam  Mason,  New  York.  “In 
every  respect  far  superior  to  every  tiling  I  have  ever  seen  of  tlie  kind,  either  in  Europe  or  America.” — Geo.  AVash- 
BOURNE  Morgan,  New  York.  “  Surpasses  every  thing  in  this  line  I  liave  yet  seen,  wliether  French  or  American.” 
John  Zundel,  New  York.  “  Far  surpas.ses  all  other  instruments  of  the  kind  that  have  come  under  my  observa¬ 
tion.” — Carl  Zerrahn,  Boston.  “  Exceeds  in  my  estimalion  every  oilier  instrument  of  this  general  class.’’ — Tiios. 
Hastings.  “  I  should  think  lliey  would  become  very  muc.li  sought  after  as  parlor  instruments,  as  well  as  for  public 
performance.” — Sigismund  Thalberg.  “lean  recommend  lliem  willi  confidence.”— Lowell  Mason.  “I  have 
never  seen  any  thing  of  the  kind  that  interested  me  so  much.” — Geo.  F.  Root.  “As  soon  as  the  public  become  ac- 
quainled  with  the  superior  merits  of  your 'insiruraent,  your  only  trouble  will  be  to  supply  the  demand.” — Wm.  B. 
Bradbury. 

Observe  tliat  the  Mason  &  Hamlin  Cabinet  Organs  are  adapted  to  secular  as  well  as  sacred  music.  The  most 
rapid,  lively  music  can  be  played  upon  lliem,  and  tiiey  are  capable  of  great  variety  of  effect.  Some  of  the  styles  are 
very  exquisite  pieces  of  furniture. 

Circulars  with  full  particulars  to  any  address,  free. 

I5roa<lway,  New  yorSi,  Waslsirng-toim  Street,  Boston, 


386 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST 


[  December, 


GEO.  E.  &  F.  W,  WOOMAM 


PUBLISHERS, 

“  THE  HORTICULTURIST/’ 
Twenty-first  Annual  Volume— 1866. 
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for  18G5. 

Which  we  send  bound  and  post-paid  everywhere  for  Three 
Dollars,  is  the  most  valualde  volume  that  has  been  publish¬ 
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from  the  pen  of  Donald  G.  Mitchell,  Esq.,  author  of  My 
Farm  of  Edgewood,  are  worth  the  price  of  the  volume. 

In  addition,  there  are  articles  on 

FRUITS, 

FLOWERS, 

HORTICULTURE, 

RURAL  ART,  ETC., 

From  Edward  ft.  Rand,  Jr.,  author  of  Floioers  for  Par¬ 
lor  and  Garden. 

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A.  S.  Fuller,  autlior  of  the  Grape  Culturist. 

F.  R.  Elliott,  author  of  Western  Fruit  Grower's  Guide. 

Geo.  E.  Woodward,  author  of  )yoodward's  Country 
Homes. 

R.  Buchanan,  author  of  Grape  and  Strawberry  Culture. 

CiiAS.  Downing,  editor  Downing's  Fruits  of  America. 

Geo.  IIusmann,  author  of  Grape  Culture  at  the  M'est. 

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The  Editor  of  Sargent's  Edition  of  Downing's 
Landscape  Gardening. 

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ies  and  Horticultural  Buildings. 

lion.  John  S.  Reid,  of  Indiana,  Rev.  A.  D.  Gridlet,  of 
Hamilton  College,  Rev.  E.  C.  Cressy,  of  Trenton,  N.  J.,  and 
others  of  the  best  practical  talent  and  ability  in  the  country. 
The  volume  for  1866  will  maintain,  and  if  possible  exceed  tliis 
standard. 

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t»OM  nd  and  post-paid,  and  1866— $4:  50  ;  186-1 
and  186.5,  bound  and  post-paiil,  and  1866— $6. 

GEO.  E.  *  P.  W.  WOODWARD, 

37  Parfe-Row,  W,  Y. 


TME  MORTICUItTUmST. 

Twenty-first  Annual  Volume— 1866- 

Monthlt.  Two  Dollaes  and  Fifty  Cents  pee  Annum. 

Specimen  Numbers,  Post-paid,  Twenty-jive  Cents, 
GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Publisheks, 

37  Park  Row,  Kew-York. 

Every  one  who  has  an  acre  lot,  a  Garden,  a  Fruit  Farm,  a 
Vineyard,  a  House  to  Build,  Out-buildings  to  Erect,  a  Home 
to  embellish  and  beautify,  will  need  the  Hoeticultukist 
for  ISGG. 

35©  in 

offered  to 

Arcliitects,  landscape  Gardeners  and  otlicrs. 
For  Publication,  with  Author’s  name  attached.  All  Designs 
should  he  handed  in  before  First  of  February,  1866. 

Premimns.— For  best  series  of  Designs  embracing  all 
varieties  of  Out-huildings,  Ice-Houses,  Summer-Houses,  Ob¬ 
servatories,  Kiosks,  Poultry  Houses,  Dairy-Houses,  Corn- 
Houses,  Bird-boxes,  Well  and  Spring  Houses,  Aviaries, 
Gates,  Fences,  Boat-houses,  Rustic  Seats,  &o. ;  small  Per¬ 
spective  Views  and  Plans,  with  short  description,  $50,  second 
best,  $30. 

1.  For  best  Plan  and  Perspective  View  of  a  Farm-House, 
suitable  for  a  medium  sized  family,  managing  a  farm  of 
about  100  Acres,  $25 ;  second  best,  $15. 

2.  For  best  Plan  and  Perspective  View  of  a  Suburban  Cot¬ 
tage,  for  a  family  of  about  six  persons,  owning  3  to  5  acres  of 
ground,  $25 ;  second  best,  $15. 

3.  For  best  design  for  laying-out,  planting,  and  embellish¬ 
ing  a  square  acre  lot,  ■ndtli  public  road  on  one  side  only, 
■with  ornamental  grounds,  garden,  fruit,  and  full  explana¬ 
tions— $10. 

4.  For  best  tlil'ee  designs  for  laj'ing-out  a  3,  5,  and  10  acre 
lot,  square  or  otherwise,  for  Suburban  occupation,  embel¬ 
lishing  the  same  in  proportion  to  size,  and  planning  the  bal¬ 
ance  in  garden,  fruit,  &c.,  to  produce  the  best  income,  with 
explanations',— $10,  $15  and  $25. 

5.  For  best  plan  of  a  Fruit  Farm,  10  to  15  acres,  with  loca¬ 
tion  and  classes  of  frnit,  quantities  of  each,  &c.;  the  whole 
arranged  with  a  view  to  the  greatest  profit,- $30. 

All  Plans  to  be  drawn  to  a  Scale,  and  may  he  in  lead-pen¬ 
cil  only.  An  impartial  committee  will  be  appointed  to  decide. 

Messrs.  Geo.  E.  &  F.  W.  Woodward  reserve  the  right  in 
all  oases  to  engrave  and  publish,  with  author’s  name  attach¬ 
ed,  all  designs  of  merit  that  may  he  ofl'ered,  without  further 
compensation. 


Tlie  “  Horticulturist  ”  during  the  year  1805,  in  addition 
to  nearly  400  pages  of  closely  printed  reading  matter,  pub¬ 
lished  208  pages  qf  advertisements  from  all  the  leading  nur¬ 
serymen  in  the  land ;  from  agricultural  implement  manufac¬ 
turers,  Seedsmen,  Florists  and  others  who  deal  in  articles  re¬ 
quired  by  those  engaged  in  rural  pursuits.  The  income  of 
THE  IIortictlturist  from  advertising  is  larger  than  that 
of  any  other  Horticultural  Magazine  published  in  the  ioorld. 
Its  circulation  is  large,  and  principally  among  the  substan¬ 
tial  men  of  tlie  country ;  men  ivho  have  fine  farms  and  coun¬ 
try  scats,  and  money  to  spend. 

It  has  been  before  the  public  Twenty  Tears,  and  adver. 
tisers  ivlio  commenced  with  us,  liavo,  through  adverse  and 
prosperous  times,  in  AVar  and  Peace,  persistently  spread  tlieir 
business  before  tlie  public  ;  they  have  grown  rich  by  it,  and 
follow  it  up  ivith  a  zeal  that  characterizes  profitable  invest¬ 
ments. 

Address,  GEO.  E.  &  E.  AV.  AA’OODWARD, 

37  Park  Row,  New  York, 


THE  HWHTICUETIIHIST. 

Twenty-first  Annual  Volume— 1866. 
Monthly.  Two  Dollars  and  Fifty  Cents  per  Annum. 
Specimen  Numbers,  Post-paid,  Twenty-Jive  Cents. 
GEO.  E.  &  F.  W.  WOODWARD,  Publishers. 

37  Park  Row,  New-York. 


All  Agricultural,  Horticultural  and  Agricultural  Books, 
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WOODWARD’S  COUNTRY  HOMES. 


A  practical  work  on  tlie  Design  and  Construction  of  Coun¬ 
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ted  with  122  designs  and  plans,  principally  of  low  priced 
buildings,  with  an  illustrated  chapter  on  the  construction  of 
Balloon  Prames,  which  are  stronger,  and  forty  per 

cent,  cheaper,  than  the  mortise  and  tenon  frame.  Every 
man  who  contemplates  building  a  house  should  liave  this 

book.  In  it  will  be  found  plans  and  exterior  views  of  com¬ 
pact,  convenienthouses,  suitable  for  farm,  suburban  and  vil¬ 
lage  residences,  taken  from  practical  examples,  nearly  every 
house  having  been  built.  Tliese  plans  and  suggestions  will 
aid  any  one  in  planning  a  house  for  liiraself.  In  these  days 
of  high  priced  building,  the  article  on  Balloon  Framing 
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of  Chicago  can  not  get  employment.  Price  $1.50,  post-paid, 
to  any  address. 


Woodward’s  Graperies  and  Ilortienltnral  Buildings. 

A  practical  work  giving  full  direction  for  Designing,  Con¬ 
structing  and  Heating  all  classes  of  buildings  for  growing 
plants  and  ripening  fruit  under  glass,  being  the  result  of  an 
extensive  professional  practice  in  all  departments  of  the  de¬ 
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Culture  under  Glass.  Price  $1.50,  post-paid,  to  any  address. 

Cultivator  and  Gouutry  Gentleman. 

A  first-class  Weekly  Agricultural  paper ;  twenty-seventh 
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37  Park  Row,  Wcw-York. 


1865.j 


AMERICAN  AaRICULTURIST, 


867 


The  Sewing  Machine. 

The  first  attempts  to  sew  by  macHfnery  date  as  far  back 
as  the  year  1755 ;  but  the  practicability  of  the  Sewing 
Machine  as  a  substitute  for  hand  labor,  in  uniting  fabrics 
by  means  of  seams  of  continuous  stitciies,  was  not  fully 
established  until  nearly  a  century  later.  The  inventive 
minds  of  Europe  failed  in  their  efforts  to  reduce  to  prac¬ 
tice  the  idea  of  Machine  Sewing,  and  it  was  left  for  the 
genius  of  America  to  produce  and  give  to  the  world  tlie 
first  practical  Sewing  M.achine.  Of  the  usefulness  of  this 
invention  it  is  unnecessary  to  speak  at  tliis  late  day.  The 
prejudices  that  impeded  its  early  introduction  have  long 
since  been  swept  away  by  the  stern  facts  which  its  every¬ 
day  successes  practically  demonstrate,  and  for  tlie  last 
ten  years  the  Sewing  Machine  has  been  universally  re¬ 
cognized  as  a  necessity  in  the  manufacture  or  putting  to¬ 
gether  of  every  known  description  of  textile  fabric,  and 
an  important  addition  to  tlie  household  economy. 

As  manufacturers  and  inventors,  Grover  &  Baker  are 
the  most  prominent  names  identified  with  the  Sewing 
Machine.  Elias  Howe  invented  the  Shuttle  Stitch  Ma¬ 
chine,  but  did  not  manufacture  more  than  were  necessary 
to  use  as  models  in  his  lawsuits,  until  after  the  Sewing 
Machine  was  made  practical  and  useful  by  subsequent 
inventors.  A.  B.  Wilson  improved  on  the  feeding  mech¬ 
anism  of  Howe’s  machine,  and  invented  a  substitute  for 
the  Howe  shuttle  in  the  rotary  liook  of  the  Wiieeler  & 
Wilson  machine,  w'hich  makes  the  shuttle  stitch  by  a  dif¬ 
ferent  mechanism.  Grover  &  Baker  invented  the  machine 
making  the  Grover  &  Baker  Elastic  Stitch,  and  have 
been  manufacturing  their  machines  ever  since  the  taking 
out  of  their  patent.  There  are  over  150,000  of  the  Grover 
&  Baker  Elastic  Stitch  Machines  now  in  use,  which  is 
abundant  evidence  that  the  excellences  of  this  stitch  are 
appreciated  by  the  public. 

Soon  after  Howe’s  invention  became  known,  a  number 
of  manufacturers  of  Sewing  Machines  appeared  in  the 
field,  each  with  some  little  attachment  or  improvement, 
on  the  strength  of  which  they  sought  to  identify  them¬ 
selves  with  tlie  Sewing  Machine,  in  the  public  mind. 
Nearly  all  these  made  Shuttle  Stitch  Machines,  and  it 
was  their  interest  in  common  to  cry  down  and  damage,  to 
the  extent  of  their  ability,  their  formidable  rival,  the 
Grover  &  Baker  Elastic  Stitch  Machine  ;  and  no  means, 
honorable  or  otherwise,  were  spared  by  them  to  prejudice 
the  public  against  it.  Despite  all  this  opposition,  the 
Grover  &  Baker  Machines  gradually  but  sureiy  worked 
their  way  into  the  foremost  place  in  public  favor,  relying 
solely  on  their  intrinsic  and  manifest  merit  over  other 
machines. 

As  further  evidence  of  their  great  popularity,  we  may 
state  that  they  have  been  awarded  the  iiighest  premiums 
at  all  the  State  Fairs  at  which  they  were  entered  in  com¬ 
petition  the  past  three  years,  and  at  hundreds  of  Institute 
and  County  Fairs.  They  have  also  been  awarded  gold 
medals  and  diplomas  at  various  exhibitions  of  England, 
France,  Spain,  and  Austria,  and  have  been  furnished  by 
command  to  the  Empress  of  France,  Empress  of  Russia, 
Empress  of  Brazil,  Queen  of  Spain,  and  Queen  ofBavaria. 

Keeping  pace  w’itli  the  growing  demand  for  their  Ma¬ 
chines,  Grover  &  Baker  increased  their  facilities  for  man¬ 
ufacturing,  and  invented  and  built  new  machinery,  of  the 
most  perfect  kind,  adapted  to  all  the  parts  of  the  Sewing 
Machine.  The  Company’s  manufactory  is  at  Boston,  and 
they  have  wholesale  depots  in  all  the  principal  cities  of 
the  Union  ;  in  London  and  Liverpool,  England,  and  Mel¬ 
bourne,  Australia.  Agencies  are  also  established  in  all 
the  other  leading  cities  of  the  Old  World,  and  in  almost 
every  village  of  the  New.  The  Company  conduct  twenty- 
four  establishments  in  their  own  name,  and  employ  in 
connection  with  them  over  300  clerks,  salesmen,  me¬ 
chanics,  and  operators.  At  the  Factory,  in  the  manu¬ 
facture  of  Machines,  Stands,  Cabinets,  etc.,  between  four 
and  five  hundred  hands  are  employed,  capable  of  turning 
out  complete,  from  thirty  to  forty  thousand  Machines  per 
annum.  The  principal  depot  for  foreign  export  is  at  495 
Broadway,  New  York,  at  which  place  a  large  retail  trade 
is  also  done.  This  establishment  is  three  stories  in  front. 


and  extends  through  to  Mercer-street,  200  feet.  Unique 
in  design  and  magnificently  fitted  up,  it  ranks  among  the 
first  of  the  commercial  palaces  of  Broadway,  and  is 
wholly  occupied  by  their  business. 

The  Grover  &  Baker  Sewing  Machine  makes  a  double 
thread  Elastic  Stitch,  and  forms  a  seam  of  great  strengtii 
and  beauty,  peculiarly  adapted  for  family  sewing  and  the 
manufacture  of  goods  where  firmness  and  elasticity  of 
seam  are  required.  The  mechanism  of  the  machine  is 
simple,  the  parts  few,  its  movements  quiet,  and  the 
method  of  operating  it  easily  acquired.  It  uses  the  thread 
directly  from  the  spool  as  purchased.  One  side  of  the 
seam  can  be  made  highly  ornamental  for  embroidering, 
by  using  colored  silk  or  worsted. 

The  importance  of  Grover  &  Baker’s  inventions  will 
be  more  apparent  when  itis  understood,  that  the  principle 
of  the  Grover  &  Baker  Machines  is  entirely  different 
from  that  of  the  Howe  Machine,  and  all  those  making 
the  Howe  Shuttle  Stitcli,  among  which  are  the  Singer, 
Wlieeier  &  Wilson,  Florence,  etc.  The  Grover  & 
Baker  Machine,  making  the  double  thread  Elastic  Stitch, 
from  the  time  of  its  invention  in  1851,  has  taken  its  posi¬ 
tion  as  a  competitor  for  public  favor  against  the  entire 
class  of  machines  descended  from  the  Howe  shuttle  in¬ 
vention,  and  bases  its  claims  for  superiority  over  these, 
not  on  any  improvement  on  or  attacliment  to  the  machine 
that  Howe  invented,  but  on  mechanism  of  an  entirely 
different  principle,  forming  a  seam  possessing  qualities 
impossible  of  attainment  by  any  machine  making  the 
Shuttle  Stitch  of  Howe.  When  treating  the  subject  of 
Sewing  Machines,  therefore,  it  is  only  necessary  to  hold 
in  view  the  two  principles  of  forming  a  seam  with  two 
threads  by  machinery,  viz.,  the  Shuttle  Stitch  and  the 
Grover  &  Baker  Elastic  Stitch. 

It  is  not  only  unnecessary,  but  leads  to  confusion,  to 
speak  of  this  Shuttle  Machine  or  that  Lock  Stitch  Ma¬ 
chine,  for  by  whoever  manufactured  or  by  whatever  name 
it  may  be  known,  the  Shuttle  and  Lock  Stitch  are  iden¬ 
tical,  and  it  possesses  the  same  merits  and  the  same 
faults  that  it  had  twenty  years  ago.  Those  contemplating 
the  use  of  Sewing  Machines  in  their  business  or  their 
homes,  should  attach  as  much  importance  to  the  selection 
of  the  one  or  the  other  principle,  as  if  they  were  deter¬ 
mining  the  choice  between  liand  and  machine  sewing. 
There  are  a  great  many  uses,  in  manufactories  and 
families,  to  which  the  Grover  &  Baker  Stitch  can  be  suc¬ 
cessfully  applied,  in  which  the  Shuttle  Stitch  would  be 
utterly  useless,  while  there  is  no  use  to  which  the  latter 
can  be  applied  that  the  former  will  not  accomplish. 
Where  both  principles  can  be  applied  to  the  same  uses 
with  comparatively  equal  success,  it  is  of  little  im¬ 
portance  w  hich  is  adopted.  There  are  however  numerous 
employments  for  the  Sewing  Machine  where  the  supe¬ 
riority  of  one  kind  is  so  marked,  tliat  a  wrong  conclusion 
as  to  the  stitch  best  suited  would  result  in  failure. 

The  following  extracts  from  testimony  taken  on  oath, 
in  a  recent  case  before  the  Hon.  Commissioner  of  Patents 
we  consider  conclusive  proof  of  the  superiority  of  the 
Grover  &  Baker  Elastic.  Stitch  Machine  for  nearly  all 
the  uses  to  which  machine  sewing  can  be  applied. 

Edward  S.  Renwick,  of  New  York  City,  a  profes¬ 
sional  engineer,  says ; 

The  seam  produced,  w  hile  secure,  is  extremely 
elastic,  and  can  be  strained  to  as  great  an  extent  as  the 
cloth  in  which  it  is  sewed,  without  the  fracture  of  the 
threads,  while  the  two-thread  seams,  sewed  by  machines 
not  embodying  the  said  Grover  &  Baker’s  invention,  are 
easily  fractured  by  straining  the  cloth,  particularly  when 
bias  seams  are  sewed.  The  Grover  &  Baker  Machines 
are  therefore  adapted  to  sewing  a  great  variety  of  articles, 
which  can  not  be  sewed  advantageously  by  dtlier  sewing 
machines.” 

Henry  B.  Renwick,  of  New  York,  civil  and  mechan¬ 
ical  engineer,  says : 

“  I  further  say.  that  machines  embodying  this  invention 
(the  Grover  &  Baker  Elastic  Stitch)  are  made  and  sold 
in  great  numbers,  to  my  knowledge,  and  are  by  many 
preferred  for  all  purposes,  and  by  many  others  for  special 
purposes,  to  any  other  sewing  machines;  such  preference 
being  due,  in  my  opinion,  to  the  peculiar  elastic  charac¬ 
ter  and  the  strength  of  the  stitch,  and  also  to  the  ease 
with  which  a  knowledge  of  the  working  of  the  machine 
may  be  acquired,  and  further,  to  the  fact  that  less  care  in 
the  adjustment  of  the  tension  is  required  in  these  tlian  in 
any  other  double-thread  machine.^.” 

Albert  H.  Hook,  of  New  York,  a  mechanical  en¬ 
gineer,  says : 

“  From  my  experience  and  observation,  I  slate  un¬ 
hesitatingly  that  the  Grover  &  Baker  Machine  is  the  best 
sew’ing  machine  for  genei-al  domestic  and  family  use  yet 
made.  It  combines,  in  the  greatest  extent,  firmness, 
elasticity,  and  durability  of  seam,  simplicity  of  construc¬ 
tion  and  ease  of  management,  capacity  of  doing  the 
greatest  variety  of  work,  including  ornamental  work  and 
embroidery — advantages  not  pos.sessed  by  any  other 
machine.  Notwithstanding  my  own  inventions  in  that 
line,  I  use  the  Grover  &  Baker  Machine  in  my  family, 
and  recommend  it  to  my  friends.” 


Mrs,  Bellina  Fhoeiilich,  of  123  East  Seventeenth- 
street,  New  York,  sav.s ; 

•‘I  liave  had  personal  experience  of  four  years  and  a 
half,  during  wliicli  time  I  have  used  it  for  all  the  various 
wants  of  a  large  family,  on  ..11  materials  ;  have  made  or¬ 
namental  work  with  it,  quilting,  tucking;  and  for  dress¬ 
making  jmrposes  I  have  found  it  to  answer  my  ends  per¬ 
fectly.  The  machine  I  used  was  the  Grover  &  Baker 
Family  Sewing  Machine.  I  have  liad  work  periormed 
for  me  on  other  family  sewing  machines — the  Wheeler  k 
Wilson,  anil  Singer;  am  rather  familiar  with  their  mode 
of  operation.  1  am  of  the  opinion  that  the  elasticity  of 
the  seams  made  on  the  Grover  &  Baker  Family  Sewing 
Machines  is  of  great  value  for  all  garments  of  family 
wear,  particularly  tliose  .subjected  to  wasliing  and  iron¬ 
ing  .  that  the  facility  of  ripping  a  seam  to  a  given  point, 
without  injuring  or  loosening  the  rest  of  the  seam,  is 
likewise  of  great  value.  The  ornamental  work  can  be 
performed  with  great  ease  and  facility  upon  this  machine, 
and  surpasses  all  other  machines  in  this  particular  fea¬ 
ture.  It  is  not  very  liable  to  get  out  of  order;  easy  to 
operate  on,  and  easy  to  learn  to  operate  on  ;  not  com¬ 
plicated,  easily  managed,  easy  to  adjust  its  parts,  and  the 
spools  are  easily  attached,  without  the  necessity  of  wind¬ 
ing  both  above  and  below,  as  the  machine  sews  directly 
from  the  spools  as  purchased  ;  the  tension  is  easily  regu¬ 
lated,  and  does  not  vary,  and  does  not  require  readjust¬ 
ment  in  passing  from  light  to  lieavy  work.  As  to  strength 
and  durability  of  seam,  I  can  testify  having  garments  in 
use  during  four  and  a  half  years,  which  have  been  con¬ 
stantly  subjected  to  washing,  wringing,  and  ironing,  and 
which  have  given  out  in  the  fabric  before  the  seam  has 
shown  any  sign  of  weakness.  In  my  judgment  it  is,  be¬ 
yond  all  question,  the  best  Family  Sewing  Machine  in 
iise.  I  also  prefer  the  manner  in  w  Inch  the  work  runs 
over  the  machine  from  the  operator,  getting  out  of  tlie 
way  as  fast  as  sewed,  and  thereby  enabling  the  operator 
tcysit  in  a  comfortable  po.sition.  In  strength  and  durability 
of  seam,  I  judge  its  work  to  last  longer  and  wear  belter 
than  the  seams  of  the  other  machines  known  to  me.” 

Mrs.  Charlotte  D.  Watts,  wife  of  Dr.  Robert 
Watts,  of  New  York  City,  says  ; 

“  I  have  been,  since  the  introduction  of  Sewing  Ma¬ 
chines  for  family  use,  much  interested  in  them,  and  have 
taken  much  pains  to  inform  myself  practically  of  the 
merits  of  the  different  leading  m<ichines  in  the  market  for 
family  use.  My  established  judgment  is  that  the  Grover 
&  Baker  Machine,  making  the  stitch  known  as  the  Grover 
&  Baker  Stitch,  is  superior  to  all  others,  for  the  following 
reasons,  for  family  sewing: 

‘‘First. — The  seam  is  stronger  and  more  elastic  than 
any  other. 

“  Second. — It  is  more  easily  managed,  and  capable  of 
doing  a  greater  variety  and  range  of  work  than  any  other. 

“  Third. — In  addition  to  plain  sewing,  this  machine  is 
capable  of  executing  ornamental  work  of  great  variety 
and  beauty. 

“  I  think  the  family  Sewing  Machine,  as  an  instrument 
for  domestic  liousehold  use,  second  in  importance  to  no 
other  invention  yet  made  ;  and  I  believe,  for  the  reasons 
stated,  the  Grover  &  Baker  decidedly  the  best  Family 
Sewing  Machine.  1  have  used  a  Sewing  Machine  in  my 
family  for  many  years,  and  would  not  be  willing  to  dis¬ 
pense  wdth  it  on  any  account.” 

Mrs.  Mary  A.  Parker,  wife  of  Dr.  Willard  Parker, 
of  New  York,  says  : 

“  Since  the  introduction  of  Sewing  Machines,  and  dur¬ 
ing  the  last  ten  years,  I  have  been  particularly  interested 
in  ascertaining  their  relative  merits  and  real  value  as  in¬ 
struments  for  domestic  use  in  families.  I  am  familiar 
with  the  leading  machines  in  the  market  for  familv  use. 
In  my  judgment,  established  from  long  observation  and 
experience,  the  Grover  &  Baker  Machine,  making  the 
Double-Loop  Grover  &  Baker  Stitch,  is  decidedly  supe¬ 
rior  to  any  other  for  family  use.  This  machine  makes  at 
the  same  time  a  stronger  and  more  elastic  seam  than  any 
other  ;  is  capable  of  doing  a  greater  variety  of  work  with 
less  change  of  adjustment  than  any  other ;  and,  in  addi¬ 
tion  to  the  work  accomplished  by  other  machines,  is  cap¬ 
able  of  doing  ornamental  work  and  embroidery.  I  think 
it  would  be  difficult  to  estimate  too  highly  the  value  of 
the  Grover  &  Baker  machine  as  an  instrument  for 
family  use.” 

Sarah  Edwards,  proprietor  of  store  745  Broadway, 
New  York,  sayS : 

'•  I  am  proprietor  of  the  establishment  for  the  manu¬ 
facture  and  sale  of  children  and  ladies’  furnishing  goods. 
No.  745  Broadway,  New  York.  I  am  thoroughlv  and 
practically  acquainted  with  the  merits  of  the  leading 
Sewing  Machines  in  the  market  adapted  to  my  business, 
or  for  fine  sewing.  I  have  tised  maciiines  for  several 
years,  and  state,  with  the  utmost  confidence,  that  the 
Grover  &  Baker  Machine  is  superior  to  any  other  for  fine 
family  and  general  work.  Although  I  have  other  machines 
making  the  shuttle  or  lock-stitch  of  high  reputation, 

I  would  not  use  any  other  than  the  Grover  &  Baker  upon 
work  when  elasticity  and  strength  of  seam  are  required. 
The  capacity  of  the  Grover  &  Baker  Machine  for  doing 
ornamental  work,  in  addition  to  plain  sewing,  is  of  much 
importance  and  value.” 

Frank  A.  Allen,  of  the  firm  of  Allen  Brothers, 
manufacturers  of  cloaks  and  mantillas.  New  York,  says  : 

“  It  Is  very  much  more  simple  than  any  other  machine, 
so  much  so  that  I  have  learned  a  person  who  had  never 
seen  any  machine,  in  two  iiours’  time,  to  run  if  well 
enough  to  stitch  a  cloak.  As  regards  durability,  I  have 
machines  that  are  now  running,  which  I  have  had  in  use 
six  years,  running  them  at  least  six  months  in  each  year. 
They  seldem  get  out  of  order,  and  require  but  a  very 
small  expense  to  repair  them.  As  compared  with  other 
machines,  as  regards  elasticity,  durability,  and  strength 
of  stitch,  we  find  it  much  better  in  all  these  points  than 
any  other  machine  we  have  used.  Much  of  the  material 
used  in  tiie  manufacture  of  cloaks  is  very  elastic,  and  re¬ 
quires  absolutely  an  elastic  stitch.  This  we  have  never 
found  in  any  other  machine  than  the  Grover  &  Baker 
sufficient  for  the  purpose.  I  have  used  one  in  my  famiiy 
about  five  years,  on  all  kinds  of  work— fine,  thick,  and 
thin  ;  and  we  give  it  the  preference  over  other  machines 
on  account  of  its  simplicity,  and  the  elasticity  and  strength 
of  the  stitch,  and  the  readiness  or  facility  w  ith  which  any 
article  of  dress  can  be  ornamented  or  embroidered.” 

(Independent.) 


388 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST. 


[Decejibek, 


(Adverlisemeiits  $1  per  line  of  Agate  space.) 

AND 

IONA  VINES. 

ParsoHS  <&  €0,9 

Offer  for  the  Autumn  trade, 

X>ela>vai*e  Ci»-i^ape  Vines, 

grown  from  single  eyes  of  hard  wood,  at  the  following  low 
prices : 

No.  1,  extra  strong,  $30  per  100.— $250  iier  1000. 
$2,000  per  10,000. 

No.  2,  flue  plants,  $20  per  100. — $150  per  1000. 
$1,200  per  10,000. 

IONA,  I§a£AEI.-L,A, 

and 

AM06ONIIAC, 

No.  1,  $3.00  each  ;  $18.00  per  doz. ;  $100  per  100. 

No.  2,  $1.50  eacli ;  $12.00  per  doz. ;  $30  per  100. 
IONA— No.  3,  $50  per  100. 

Our  No.  1  Iona,  are  very  strong,  extra  plants,  grown  from 
single  eyes  of  hard  wood. 

۩NC01II>  TINES, 

$12  00  per  100  ;  $75  00  per  1000  ; 

$700  per  10,000. 

We  also  offer  fine  plants  of  all  the  sorts  of  vines  usually 


FFiASS,  AFFILE 

and  other 

FHUIT 

of  the  best  varieties. 

(III 

OKWAJIEATAIL  TISEE§ 

and 

SMISIJMSo 

ilOSKS,  ilybrkl  Perpetuals,  at  $30  per  100;  $175  per  1000. 

These  are  all  Keiuontants,  of  the  best  varieties,  upon 
their  own  roots,  not  budded  or  grafted. 

Address  PAIIS€>NS  &,  €©., 

FIiisliBHg',  N.  Y. 

f.4ilies  I  iiilies  ’  litlles  I 

Foe*  4Ee«  MilSSosi. 

JfAPAN  and  other  I^ILIES  by  MAIL,, 
at  the  following  rates. 

each .  per  clos. 

Anratum  (JVew  G.olden  Lihj  of  Japaii), 

Strong  flowering  roots . $5  00  .$.50  00 

Ijaiicifoliutii  album  ( ll7i«e  Jirpnii) .  40  cts.  4  00 

do  vwhvwm  (,l{ed  spoiled  Ja2}an).  40  cts.  4  00 

do  roseum  (Ause  spoMed  (fapn)*  40  cts.  4  00 

do  roseiim  monstrosum  ( White  it  crimson')  $1  00  $10  00 

Ca,:i<liilinu  liore  pleiio,  (Double  While)...  23  cts.  2  50 

SCaiixptscluJiflceusc,  (Orange) .  50  cts.  5  00 

Tigi-iinj'u  (Tiger  Lihj),  Large  roots .  15  cts.  1  50 

Djiiblf  TH!)crosc.s,  per  doz.,  $1  50:  per  100,  .$9  00; 
per  1000,  $00  00. 

Clinntliu.s  ilaiiipieri  in  v.arieties. 

New  seeds  of  this  splendid  plant  in  p.apers  of  10  Seeds  for 
$l  00:  25  Seeds  for  $2  00:  100  Seeds  lor  $7  OO. 

.Aiii-irli'.iin.  siiicl  otUei'  Lilies  by  the  100  to  tlie 
Ti-iidc,  at  reduced  rates. 

J.  M.  THOnBUUN  &  CO.. 

IPr  Johii-strect,  New- York. 

FSeiaats  I>y  Msill. 

Wilson’s  E.urly  Blackberry,  Large,  Sweet  and 
I’roducUve,  ahead  of  all  otlier  Blackherries  in  market,  and 
brings  more  money  Brice,  1  Plant,  ,$2:  12  Plants,  $21. 

PJlilrulelpJvin  Baspberry,  2  1“lants,  $1:  12  Plants, 
$5.  Also  l.I.POO  Apple  Trees,  :!  year.s  old,  grafted  on  seed¬ 
ling  roots,  will  he  sold  cheap  to  clear  the  ground. 

Send  for  Catalogues  gratis.  iVlLLlAM  PAIIP.T, 

Cinnaminson,  N.  .1. 

gj  (9>  I’L.ANTS  SENT  POST-PAID.— The  Wilson 

tf^Early  Blackberry,  remarkably  large,  sweet,  liardyand 
productive.  Profitable  bceau.se  it  will  yield  more  ripe  fruit 
in  three  weeks  than  tlie  New  lloclielle  will  the  whole  season 
Noticed  by  Ouaxok  .Iron,  in  August  No.  1  plant.  $2:  12  for 
$21.  New  P.oche,lle  plants,  $1  per  dozen  :  $2  per  100 ;  $10  per 
1000.  Philailelphia  Kaspbenw,  $5  per  dozen.  Also,  12  good 
varieties  of  Strawbcrrie.s  by  the  dozen,  100,  or  1000.  Price, 
I, ist  gratis.  JOHN  S.  COLLINS,  Aloorestown,  Burlington 
County,  New  Jersey. 

J  CASKS  CONTATNfNG  B«<5  SELECTIONS 
Hiilhous  Hoots,  production  of  the  florists  HENRY 
STORM  &  son;  of  Haarlem,  In  Holland,  containing  Hva- 
clnths.  Crocuses,  and  Tulips  of  all  kinds  and  colors,  for  sale 
fly  E-  CATLUS  PE  KUyXEli  *  CO„  07  Beaver-st,,  N,  Y, 


loiisi  C^rape  WoocL 

5,000  Select  Buds,  with  well  ripened  wood,  suitable  for 
general  propagation,  and  for  grafting  old  vines.  lYill  be 
sold  in  lots  to  suit  purchasers.  The  wood  tvas  grown  by  my¬ 
self  from  vines  bad  of  C,  "W.’ Grant,  tlic  ox'iginator 
of  tills  variety  anil  tlic  Israella.  Address  with 
stamp.  A.  BUSHNELL,  Peekskill,  N.  Y. 

Crarden  ^ee«t§.  ®}ardeii  Seeds. 

The  subscriber  has  been  engaged  over  thirty  years  in  rais¬ 
ing  all  kinds  of  Garden,  vegetable  and  fOlower 
Seeds,  and  having  over  one  hundred  acres  devoted  to  that 
purpose,  is  enabled  to  ofler  as  good  a  stock  of  seeds  as  can 
be  lound  in  the  country.  Dealers  can  be  supplied  in  any 
quantity,  either  by  the  pound,  bushel,  or  neatly  put  up  in 
small  Piipers  suitable  for  retailing.  A  list  of  prices  will  be 
sent  to  all  applicants.  G.  R.  GAKRETSON,  P'lushing,  N.  Y. 

Seeds  t  .ISiiltos  1 1  Flaiits  ! !  l 

WILIilABI  HACICER, 

Office  25S  Sooth  Third  St., 

PHILADELPHIA,  PA. 

■Wholesale  Dealer  ill  Seeds,  and  Agent  for  the  best  English, 
French,  and  German  growers.  Hyacinths,  Tulips,  Crocusand 
otlier  Bulbs  direct  from  the  Holland  growers.  Country  mcr- 
cliauts.  Dealers  and  Druggists  supplied  at  the  lowest  rates. 

To  make  the  Best  Q,uality  with  the  greatest 

having  of  and  Fuel, 

Use  the  Celebrated 

Maple  Cirenlar  and  Descriptive  Pamplilet 

sent  free  ou  application.  Parties  desiring  Agency  will  please 
tvrite  us  immediately. 

HATES  &  HAY, 
Ma®s§field,  Oliio. 


F®R  THE 

No  more  useful  or  acceptable  present  for  the  Holidays,  can 
bo  found  by  Parents  or  Guardians,  than  one  of 

FAISK’g  TOOE  CHESTS, 

containing  complete  setts  of  Tools  for  Boys,  Gents,  Farm¬ 
ers  and  Mechanics. 

Prices  ranging  according  to  size,  from  S3.00  to  SlIO. 
Chests  containing  from  3  to  123  different  Tools.  To  be  ob¬ 
tained  from  all  Hardware  and  Variety  Dealers,  and  from 
tlie  Manufacturers. 

Send  for  Circular  to  PARR  &  PARMELEE, 

BufiTalo,  N.  Y. 

BKWEY’S  FKUIT  plates— 800  V.arieties.  New 

Cataiogue  iust  Issued,  containing  over  Two  Hundred 
new  varieties.  Nurserymen  and  Tree  Dealers  please  order 
Catalogues.  D.  M.  DEWEY,  Agent. 

Horticultural  Bookseller,  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

Fancy  FowI§. 

Pure  bred  fowls  from  recent  importations.  Fifteen  varie- 


Bantams,  &c.  Address- 


R.  H.  HAINES. 
Box  58,  pllizabetli,  N.  .T. 


PREMIUM  CHESTER  WHITE  PIGS  for  Sale.— 
Sent  by  F-xpress  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  For 
Circulars  and  Prices,  Address  N.  P.  BOYER  &  CO., 

Gum  Tree,  Chester  Co.,  Pa. 

ijane’s  Fsacclaasiiag  Agency, 

FOR  PURCHASING 

attlie  lovrest  regular  price,  anything  to  bo 
procured  in  Ncvv-Iiiirork  City,  and  at 
other  accessible  points. 

HARVEY  B.  LANE, 

151  Na.ssan-.strcet,  New»York. 

FOR  ALL  AVHO  DESIRE 


•^MPLOYMENT, 

•“■^it,  GOOD  BOOKS.  ■\Vliolesnlo  terms  sent  on  applica¬ 
tion.  LARGE  PROFITS  anfl  SECURITY  AGAINST  LOSS, 
Enclose  stamp,  EPWEER  &  WELLS,  5SP  Broadway,  N,  Y, 


A  Nice  liilfle  Fresesat 

FOR  THE  UOLID.VTS. 

Every  body  will  prize  the  Scviiig  Ripper,  which 
takes  out  a  seam  faster  than  a  sowing  machine  could  make 
it,  and  ivith  less  danger  of  cutting,  than  with  knife  or  scis¬ 
sors.  Thousands  have  been  sold,  and  no  complaints  made. 
Price,  50  cents.  Just  the  thing  for  agents. 

A.  C.  FITCH,  151  Nassau  street,  N.  Y".  City. 

WHAT  MATCHLESS  BEAUTY 

Lingers  on  every  glossy  rvave  and  riplet  of  her 
lovely  hair. 

IVINS’ 
PATENT 

HAIR 
CRIMPERS, 

For  crimping  and  waving  La¬ 
dies’  hair.  So  heat  -used,  and 
no  injury  to  the  hair. 

They  are  put  up  In  beauti¬ 
fully  lithographed  boxes  con- 
tainiug  one  sett  (1  doz.)  assort¬ 
ed  lengths,  ivitli  full  directions  for  use  accompanying 
each  box. 

No  Lady’s  toilette  is  complete  without  tliem.  T'or  sale 
throughout  tbe  couiitrj-.  Retailers  will  be  supplied  -hv  anv 
fir.st-class  Jobber  of  Notions  in  Ke5v  Y*ork,  Philadelpliia,  or 
Boston. 

MANUFACTURED  ONLY  BY 
E.  I'VIJfS,  Sixth-st.  and  Columbia  Ave., 
Philadelphia,  Pa. 

BEMOREST’S  MONTHLY  MAGAZINE.— EX- 
TKAOHDINAEY'  NOVELTIES.  Magnificent  Steel  En¬ 
gravings,  suitable  for  framing;  Splendid  .and  reliiible  Fash¬ 
ions;  Original  Stories  and  Poems;  very  valuable  Music; 
Full-Size  Patterns  of  the  Latest  Styles,  and  otlier  valuable 
features.  Do  not  fail  to  see  this  magnificent  Magazine. 
Single  co]iies,  25  cents;  vearlv,  $3.  rvlth  a  valuable  premium. 
Address  W.  JENNINGS  DEMOREST,  No.  473  Broadway. 

Kooks  hy  Return  Hlail.— .Any  Book,  Map, 
Chart,  Portr.ait,  Album,  M.agazine,  or  Paper,  sent  “by  Re¬ 
turn  Post,”  at  Publishers’  prices.  All  Dictionaries,  G.izet- 
teers  and  Encyclopedias  on  the  Natural  Sciences,  maybe  l;ad 
at  this  oflice.  Please  address  MESSRS.  FOWLER  &  AVELLS 
339  Broadway,  New-York. 

The  national  park  bank  oe  neay- 

Y’OEK. 

CAPITAL . 82,000,000.  SURPLtTS. . .  ..81,200,000. 

This  Bank  will  issue  Certificates  of  Deposit  hearing  inter¬ 
est  on  favorable  terms.  J.  L.  WORTH,  Cashier. 

New-York,  Aug.  21, 1865. 


fmmmK 


mmm 


Covered  vith  Beautiful  Wliite  Duck,  the  Best, 
the  cheapest,  and  most  durable,  Cork  Rolls,  Cog  AVheels, 
Galvanized  Iron  Frame.  Depot  of  the  Company,  494  Broad¬ 
way,  New  Y'ork.  Price  $8.00.  Agents  and  Shippers  liberally 
dealt  with.  Send  for  Circular. 


Claes  MeacisitiaFteFs 

for  Spring  Hor-ses,  Cantering  Horses,  Self-operating  Swingii 
Brown’s  Baby  Tenders,  and  Toys  of  all  kinds. 

I.EWIS  TIBBALS, 

510  Broadway,  opposite  St.  Nicholas  IIolcl. 
Invalid  Propellers  and  Chairs  ou  hand  and  made  to  order. 
Send  for  Circular. 

The  A1 phahet  Masle  Fsesy.” 

On  the  Idea  system,  will  save  fretting,  scolding  and  crying, 
and  give  a  taste  forreading.  .Send  to  SAUGENT  WII.SON  iS: 
HINKLE,  Clncinuali,  Oliio,  15  cents  for  one  copy,  25  for  two. 

FIRST-RATE  PATENT  CAN  lirniOLTHIT 

at  from  $25  to  $->0  per  County.  It  can  bo  made  by  any 
Carpenter,  and  Is  needed  in  cverv  familv.  Address 

S.  MACFERRAX,  72i  Cheslmit-stroot. 

'  I’liiladelpliia. 

AVORTII  GOODRICH’S  NEAV  SEED- 
POTATOES  by  mail.  Cireulars  free. 
Send  for  one,  P,  SUTTON,  PHtstop,  Pa.,  Box3'28, 


AMEHIGAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


389 


isco.i 


Patent  Baby-Tender. 


It  is  not  only  A  Noiseless  and  Charming  Cra¬ 
dle,  but  is  easily  anti  instantly  changed  into  either  of  the 
following  articles,  each  in  itselfcomplete  and  perfect,  namely: 

A  Reclining  and  Sitting  Couch  for  infants. 

A  Baby- J umper,  allowing  perfect  freedom  of  motion. 
(.See  Cut.) 

A  Baby-Horse  for  children  of  cither  sex. 

A  Baby-WalUer,  attractive  and  useful. 

A  Nursery  Chair. 

A  High  Chair  for  the  table. 

An  Ottoman,  andj 

A  delightful  Hobby-Horse  for  boys  or  girls. 

The  Baby-Tender  is  entirely  safe,  simple,  and  easily  under¬ 
stood,  and,  with  ordinary  care,  will  last  for  many  years.  It 
st.ands  on  casters  (no  part  being  suspended),  occupies  no 
more  space  than  a  small  trunk,  and  may  be  safely  moved  by 
a  child  of  three  years. 

Those  who  have  never  used  it  have  no  conception  of  the 
toil  and  anxiety  which  it  saves  to  those  having  the  care  of 
infants  and  children. 

Since  the  illustrated  description  of  the  Baby-Tender  was 
published  in  the  American  Agriculturist,  with  the  hearty 
endorsement  of  the  editor,  in  December  ISGl,  several  import¬ 
ant  improvements  have  been  added,  which  are  commended 
by  tlie  same  authority.  The  iron  work  of  the  apparatus  is 
made  at  the  well-known  establishment  of  Messrs.  IVhceler 
&  Wilson,  which  is  a  sufficient  guarantee  of  excellent 
workmanship. 

As  the  Baby-Tenders  are  now  fitted  up,  no  more  accepta¬ 
ble,  or  useful  Holiday  Gift  could  be  made  in  a  family  where 
tliere  is  a  baby.  It  is  emphatically  a  “Help  for  Mothers.” 

For  Descriptive  Circulars,  etc..  Address 

THE  BABY-TENDER  MP’G  CO., 

939  Broadway,  New-York. 

'  $135  A  MONTH! 

'S'®!' ANTED ! — Sewing  Machine  Agents  !  Everywhere, 
**  to  introduce  the  new  SHAW  &  CLAItK  Twenty  Dollar 
Family  Sewing  Machine,  the  only  low  price  machine  in  the 
country  wliicli  is  licensed  by  Grover  &  Baker,  Wheeler  & 
IVilson,  Howe,  Singer  &  Co.,  and  Bachelder.  Salary  and  ex¬ 
penses,  or  large  commissions  allowed.  All  otlier  Machines 
now  sold  for  less  tlian  forty  dollars  each  are  infringements, 
and  tlie  seller  and  user  liable.  Illustrated  circulars  sent 
free.  Address,  SHAW  &  CLARK,  Blddeford,  Maine. 


Mew  and  Marvelous ! 

MAGNESIUM  WIRE,  a  small  piece  of  which  will  give  A 
EIGHT  EQUAL  TO  SEVENTY-FOUR  StEARINE  CANDLES— SO 
intense  tiiat  it  lias  been  seen  2S  miles  at  Sea;  can  be  carried 
safely  in  tlie  vest  pocket,  and  Ignited  witii  a  common  matcli. 
Further  particulars  on  application.  One  Coil  (four  feet) 
35cts.  Five  Coils,  (twenty  feet)  $1.00  By  mail,  nost-paid. 

Address  ADAMS  &  CO.,  Boston. 


PORTABLE 

PRINTING  OFFICES. 

For  Merchants,  Drns^ists,  Hospitals,  small  Job  Printers, 
&c.  Address  ADAMS  ^PllESS  CO.,  26  Ann-st.,  New  York. 
Specimen  Sheets  of  Type,  Cuts,  &c.,  Six  cents. 


$20.  G.  &  S.  CRYSTAL  D.  P.  $20. 


$1000 


A  year  can  be  realized  gilding  and  putting  np 
the  Crystal  Door  Plate.  Agents  wanted.  Stock, 
Tools,  and  Instructions  cost  $30.  L.  L.  TODD 
&  CO.,  39  Nassau-street,  New-ITork. 

SEND  FOR  A  CIRCULAR? 


Cured  by  Bates’  Parent  Appliances, 
phlet,  etc..  Address  H.  C.  L.  MEARS, 


A  “  Mirror  of  tlie  Mind  5”  or,  your 
Cliaracter  from  your  Likeness.  For  particulars  bow  to  liave 
pictures  taken,  inclose  a  pre-paid  envelope,  addressed  to 
yourself  for  answer,  to  MESSRS,  FOWLER  &  WELLS 
889  Broadway,  New  York, 

• 


Sewing  Machines. 

We  are  having  a  great  many  inquiries  for  Sewing  Ma¬ 
chines  from  various  parts  of  the  country,  and  as  we  can 
not  conveniently  reply  to  them  all  by  mail,  we  have 
thought  it  proper  to  state  our  opinion  in  regard  to  them 
in  this  public  manner.  We  have  used  Wilson’s  patent, 
manufactured  by  the  Wiieeier  &  Wilson  Manufacturing 
Company,  No.  (125  Broadway,  and  we  can  say  in  regard 
to  it,  tliat  it  is  without  a  rival.  It  is  simple,  not  easily 
put  out  of  order  when  in  proper  bands,  and,  in  point  of 
effectiveness  and  finisli,  no  other  machine  stands  ahead 
of  it.  This  famous  Sewing  Machine  is  liighly  appreci¬ 
ated  the  world  over.  We  state  tiiis  mucli  in  regard  to 
(he  excellent  machine  upon  our  own  responsibility. 

This  Company  have  made  and  sold  during  the  last 
three  months  about  10,000  machines,  and  are  now  pro  lac¬ 
ing  and  selling  150  per  day.  They  vary  in  price  from 
$50  to  $100,  and  the  higliest-priced  ones  sell  best.  In 
their  business  tliere  is  over  $1,000,000  invested,  and  they 
keep  900  men  regularly  employed  manufacturing  ma¬ 
chines.  The  system  pursued  is  tlie  same  as  lliat  adopted 
in  the  manufacture  of  arms ;  every  piece  is  made  to  a 
guage,  and  consequently  the  parts  of  any  machine  may 
be  transposed  with  those  of  another  machine  of  the  same 
size  ;  or,  should  an  accident  occur,  the  broken  part  can 
be  immediately  replaced  on  application  at  tlie  office. 

There  is  not  an  establisliment  in  fliis  country  wliere 
stitching  of  any  kind  is  required,  in  wliieli  the  Sewing 
Machine  is  not  employed,  and  there  are  few  private  fam¬ 
ilies  in  which  it. is  not  an  acknowledged  article  of  furni¬ 
ture.  This  Company  lias  just  won  the  liigliest  premium 
at  the  International  Fair,  Dublin,  exhibiting  its  200,000th 
machine,  beautifully  ornamented,  with  tlie  American 
coat  of  arms. — Scientific  American. 


SEWIMG-  MACHINES. 


Highest  Premium  Fair  American  Institute,  1805, 
(Gold  Medal).  Report  of  Committee  of  Awards : 

REASONS. 

1st.— Its  simplicity  and  great  range  of  Work. 

2nd.— Its  making  four  different  Stitclies,  viz.:  The  Lock, 
Knot,  Double  Lock  and  Double  Knot. 

3d.— The  Reversible  Feed  Motion,  operated  by  simply  turn¬ 
ing  a  Thumb  Screw,  enabling  the  operator  to  run  tlie  Work 
to  the  Right  or  to  tlie  Left,  and  coiiv'enieiico  of  Self-fastening 
the  ends  of  Seams. 

4th.— The  perfect  finish  and  substantial  manner  in  ivliicli 
the  Machine  is  made. 

5tli.— The  Rapidity  ot  its  Working,  and  the  Quality  of  the 
Work  done. 

6th.— Its  Self-adjusting  Tension. 


THE 


This  Wringer  has  again  taken  the  first  premium  in  the- 
Great  Fair  of  tlie  Anierihan  Institute— it  has  also  taken  tlie 
first  premium  at  the  State  Fairs  of  New-York,  Vermont, 
Pennsylvania,  Olilo,  Michigan,  Indiana,  Illinois,  Kentucky, 
Iowa,  WLsconsiii,  Connecticut  River  Valley  Fair,  Cliamplam 
Valley  Fair,  and  at  most  of  tlie  County  and  Institute  Fairs 
thi'ougliout  the  country.  Over  200,000  have  been  sold,  and 
are  now  in  use  in  tlie  United  States,  and  ica  never  heard  of 
one  that  was  not  liked. 

The  Universal  is  superior  to  all  other  Wringers,  in  hav¬ 
ing  large  rolls  of  solid  India  Rubber,  so  protected  by  strong 
cog-wheels  that  tliey  cannot  slip  or  break  loose  from  tlie 
siiaft.  Its  strong  wood  frame  cannot  be  broken,  and  does 
not  rust  or  soil  the  clothes.  Every  Universal  'VVringcr  is 
warranted. 

We  select  a  few  testimonials  from  persons  widely  known 
to  the  public,  wlio  speak  fi'om  actual  experience,  and  are 
above  suspicion  of  misstateiiient. 

“My  family  would  as  soon  give  up  the  cooking-stove  as 
this  Clothes  AVringer.  It  cannot  be  too  liigbly  recom¬ 
mended.”— [Solon  Robinson. 

“After  a  constant  use  of  the  Universal  Clothes  Wring¬ 
er  for  more  than  four  years  in  my  lamilj-,  I  am  authorized 
by  the  ’powers  tliat  be’  to  give  it  tlie  most  unqualified  praise, 
and  to  pronounce  it  an  indispensable  part  of  tlie  machinery 
of  liousekeeping.”— [Rev.  Henry  AA’ard  Beecher. 

,  “  This  is  the  first  Wringer  I  liave  found  tliat  would  stand 
the  service  required  of  it.”— J.  P.  Huggins,  Lovejoy’s  Hotel. 

“  AVe  tliink  tlie  Macliine  jiuen  more  than  pays  for  itself 
EA'ERY  year  in  THE  SAVING  OF  GARMENTS.  AVe  tliiuk  it  im¬ 
portant  the  AA'ringer  slioiild  be  fitted  with  COGS.”— [Orange 
Judd,  Editor  of  American  Agriculturist. 

“  I  he.artily  commend  it  to  economists  of  time,  money  and 
contentment.”— [Tlie  Rev.  Dr.  Bellows. 

PRICES— Large  size,  $10 :  Medium,  $8.50,  On  receipt  of 
the  price  from  places  where  no  one  is  selling,  we  will  send 
the  'UHHNGEIi  free  of  freiglit  charges. 

A  good  canvasser  can  make  money  rapidly  selling  Hiem  in 
every  town.  Exclusive  sale  guarantied  and  lilieral  terms 
given  to  responsible  parties  who  first  apply.  Descriptive  Cir¬ 
cular  and  terms  sent  free. 

The  celebrated  DOTY’S  CLOTHES  WASHER,  wbicli  has 
just  taken  tlie  First  Premium  at  the  Great  Fair  of  tlie  Amer¬ 
ican  Institute,  is  sold  also  by  tlie  undersigned. 

R.  C.  BROAVNING,  General  Agent, 

No.  347  Broadwaj',  New-York. 

— — - 1 - - 

India  Hnlsljer  ^i3  loves 

are  an  invaluable  protection  for  (he  hands  in  Gardening, 
Housework,  etc.,  and  a  certain  cure  for  Chapped  Hands, 
Salt  Rheum,  etc.  Sent  by  mail  on  receipt  of  $1  50  for 
Ladies’  sizes  ;  $1  75  for  Gentlemen’s,  by 

GOODYE.AR  I.  R.  GLOVE  MF’G  CO., 

205  Bro.idway,  New-York. 


ESTEY’S 

COTTACIE  ORGANS 
and  MELOHEOI^S, 

WITH  PATENTED  IMPROVEMENTS, 

RENDERING  THEM  GREATLY  SUPERIOR 
TO  OTHER  REED  INSTRUMENTS. 


1st.  In  quick  articulation. 

2nd.  In  Eoundness  of  Tone. 

3d.  In  Volume  of  Tone.  The  three  great  essen¬ 
tials  in  instruments  of  this  class. 

These  are  accomplished  by  the  peculiar  con¬ 
struction  and  VOICING  of  the  Reeds,  the  use  of 
the  P.atent  Harmoniu-m  Attachment,  wliicb 
doubles  the  power  by  coupling  the  octavo;  the 
Patent  Manual  Sub-Bass,  a  substitute  for  Pedal 
Bass,  and  the  general  arrangement  of  the  instrument. 

This  House  has  been  manufacturing  and  improving  during  the  last  twenty  years,  until, -n-itliout  unusual  ebbrt,  or  exten¬ 
sive  advertising,  they  have  two  of  the  largest  manufactories  in  the  United  States,  and  yet  can  scarcely  meet  the  demand  for 
these  truly  remarkable  instruments. 

They  recently  took  the  Firet  Premium  at  the  Albany  and  Troy  Union  Fair,  and  at  the  Michigan  and  Indiana  State  Fairs, 
over  those  of  all  the  leading  manufacturers  in  the  land.  They  have  been  tested  side  by  side  with  others  in  Churches  and 
Parlors,  and  have  uniformly  borne  off  the  palm. 

Testimonials  could  be  multiplied  indefinitely  if  space  would  allow. 

Jauhne,  the  celebrated  Organ  Builder,  of  New  York,  pronounces  them  superior  to  all  otliers  in  “  exceedingly  quick  ar¬ 
ticulation  and  round  tone,"  wliich  judgment  is  confirmed  by  every  Organist  who  lias  tested  them. 

John  H.  'VYauxei:,  Organist,  New'- York,  says:  "  I  regard  ESTEY’S  COTTAGE  OliGANS  as  combining  more  cxcehencea 
than  any  other  lieed  Instrument  I  have  ever  seen.  They  are  remarkable  for  sweetness  and  variety  of  expression,  combined: 


with  unusual  volume  of  tone." 

C.  Heintz,  Organist,  says :  “Tlds  Organ  is  the  best  for  the  size  I  ever  saw',  and  the  best  adapted  for  Church  Music- 
of  any  in  use.” 

Prof.  OscAU  Mato,  says :  ‘‘Its  great  range  and  resources  for  effect  are  really  astonishing.  *  *  *  »«  I  prefer  tlicim 

above  all  others.” 

To  prove  my  sincerity  in  these  statements  I  make  the  following  proposition:  Any  reader  of  the  Aoutcttltttkist,  pur¬ 
chasing  one  of  these  instruments,  with  tlie  improvements,  and  finding  it  on  fair  trial,  by  impartial  and  competent  judges,, 
to  fail  in  meeting  these  representations,  shall  have  his  money  refunded  and  the  Instrument  returned  without  expense  to  the- 
purchaser.  As  to  the  matter  of  my  responsibility,  I  refer  to  Oraxge  Jtjdd,  Esq. 

I  also  keep  on  liand  thoroughly  made  and  beautiful  Pianos,  which  1  sell  much  below  the  usual  prices  for  this  class  of  iij- 
struments,  and  w’arrant  them  for  five  years. 

For  Circulars  and  full  particulars,  Address 

O-EOE^GJ-E  0-.  SYYE, 
(WHOLESALE  AND  RETAIL  DEPOT.) 

131  GrasacS-Streel,  Wew-York. 


390 


AMERICAN  AGRICULTURIST, 


[Decembek, 


68 

PenFl-^ta,  Me w» York. 

Produce  Coiumissioii  Mercliants, 


FOK  THE  SALE  OF 


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Send  for  Weekly  PniCE  CtrRBEKT,  ^r,‘^rking  Plate  and 
Circular  witli  Packing  and  Sliipping  directions. 

Country  Consignments  receive  special  attention. 


Beni.  Lodcr,  Esq.,  N.  Y. 

Ex-Pres’t.  Erie  K.  K. 
Cragin  &  Co.,  N.  Y., 
and  Cliicago,  Ill. 


KEFEKENCES : 

1  lion.  .1.  K.  Porter, 
I _  .'Vll)a_ny,  N.  Y. 


Wm.  S.  Tliorn,  Esq.,  N.  Y. 

Prest.  Na’l  Fire  Ins.  Co. 
Lane,  Son  &  Co.,  I^.  Y. 


Preaiiisam  Crolit  Medial. 

AMEKIC.4N  BELL  COMPANY’S 
Steel  Composition  and  Bronze  yiETAL  Bells, 
33  Liberty-st.,  NewY'ork. 


The  following  Is  a  copy  of  the  certificate  of  tlie  Board  of 
Managers  of  the  American  Institute,  in  response  to  the 
Committee  of  Judges  on  Bells. 

No.  C29,  (J.  M.  Tliis  is  to  certify  that  a  GOLD  MED.\L 
was  awarded  tlie  AMEUICAN  BELL  CO.,  for  Steel  Composi¬ 
tion  and  Bronze  Metal  Bells,  with  Harrison’s  Rotating 
hanging  apparatus. 

American  Institute,  )  Signed  .lOHN  VV.  CHAMBERS, 
New-York,  Oct.  ’33, 1865.  J  Sec.  Board  of  Slanagers. 

This  is  the  higliest  commendation  ever  given  by  tlie  Amer¬ 
ican  Institute,  to  any  Bell  Founder  in  the  United  States. 


■pABSra  AI^I>  FRUIT  UAi^RS,  in  a 

mild  and  liealthful  climate.  Thirty  miles  of  Phila¬ 
delphia  liy  Railroad,  in  New  Jersey,  on  the  same  line  of  lat¬ 
itude  as  Baltimore,  Md. 

The  soil  is  ricli  and  productive,  yavying  from  a  clay  to  a 
sandy  loam,  suitable  for  IVlieat,  Grass,  Corn,  Tobacco,  Fruits 
and  Vegetables.  This  is  a  great  fruit  countt'y.  Five  hun¬ 
dred  Vineyards  and  Orchards  have  been  planted  out  by  ex¬ 
perienced  fruit  growers.  Grapes,  Peaches,  Pears,  &c.,  produce 
immense  profits.  Vineland  is  already  one  of  the  most  beau¬ 
tiful  places  in  the  United  States.  The  entire  territory,  con¬ 
sisting  of  forty-five  square  miles  of  land,  is  laid  out  upon  a 
general  system  of  improvements.  Tlie  land  is  only  sold  to 
actual  settlers  with  provision  for  public  adornment.  The 
place  on  account  of  its  great  beauty  as  well  as  other  advan¬ 
tages  has  become  the  resort  of  people  of  taste.  It  has  in¬ 
creased  five  tliousand  people  within  the  past  three  years. 
Cliurches,  Stores,  Scliools,  Acadamies,  Societies  of  Art  and 
Learning,  and  otlier  elements  of  refinement  and  ciilturehave 
been  introduced.  Hundreds  of  people  are  constantly  set¬ 
tling.  Several  Imndred  houses  are  being  constructed,  and 
it  is  estimated  that  five  hundred  will  be  built  during  the  sum¬ 
mer.  Price  of  Farm  land,  twenty  acre  lots  and  upward,  ®’35 
per  acre.  Five  and  ten  acre  and  Village  lots  for  sale. 

Fruits  and  Vegetables  ripen  earlier  in  tliis  district  than  in 
anyotlicr  locality  north  of  Norfolk,  Va.  Improved  places 
for  sale. 

Openings  for  all  kinds  of  business.  Lumber  Yards,  Manu. 
factories.  Foundries,  Stores,  and  tlie  like. 

For  persons  who  desire  mild  winters,  a  liealthful  climate, 
and  a  good  soil,  in  a  country  beautifully  improved,  abound¬ 
ing  in  fruits  a’nd  possessing  all  otlier  social  privileges,  in  tlie 
lieart  of  civilization,  it  is  worthy  of  a  visit. 

Letters  answered  and  tlie  Vineland  Rural,  a  paper  giving 
full  information,  and  containing  Reports  of  Solon  Robinson, 
sent  to  applicants. 

Address  CIIAS.  R.  LANDIS,  Vineland  P.  O.,  Landis 
Township,  New  Jersey. 

From  Report  of  Solon  Robinson,  Agricultural  Editor 
of  The  Tribune  :  It  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  fertile 
tracts,  in  an  almost  level  position  and  suitable  condi¬ 
tion  for  pleasant  farming  that  we  know  of  this  side  of 
the  Western  Prairies. 


Every  Farmer  wlio  lias  Farm  Uten¬ 
sils  worth  preserving,  can  add  Fifty  pei-  cent,  to 
tlieir  wear  by  keeping  tliem  protected  with 

The  Crutta  Percha  Cement  Paint. 

The  clieapest  and  best  preservative  Paint  in  the  world,  for 
wood  and  metals  of  all  kinds,  and  for  painting  and  repairing 
Tin  and  other  Roofs. 

It  has  been  tested  eiglit  years,  is  always  ready  for  use. 

Masuifaeturers  of  Agricnltiiral  Im- 

plenicnts  will  And 

The  Rlaek  Oiamond  Yarnish 

equal  to  tlie  best  for  all  purposes  where  a  quick  ilrying, 
liistrou.s  viirnisli  is  required.  It  costs  only  one  quar¬ 
ter  as  mucli. 

The  <RUtta  Pereha  Cement  Roofing 

costs  lialf  as  much  as  Tin,  and  can  be  applied  bv  any  one. 
THE  JOHNS  &  CROSLEY  iMANUFACTURlNG  CO., 
Sole  Manufacturers, 

No.  78  TVilliam-street,  cor.  Liberty,  New-York. 

All  Works  on  Phonography,  Hy- 

rtropatky,  Plirenology,  Physiology,  Physiognomy,  Psy- 
chology.  Ethnology,  Mechanism,  Pliotography,  Anatomy, 
Medicine,  Agriculture,  Education,  etc.,  supplied  by  MESSRS, 
FOWLER  &  WELLS,  389  Broadw.ay,  New  York.  See  our 
Special  List  of  Private  Medical  Works.  Agents  Wanted. 


Mallory  &  sandford’S  celebrated 

FLAX  BRAKE,  tlie  best  in  use,  for  sale  by  tlie  Com¬ 
pany’s  Agent. 

JOHN  W.  QUINCY, 

Send  for  a  Circular.  98  Williain-st.,  New-York. 


The  Ammoniated  Phosphatic  Guano 

Is  tlie  best  and  most  economical  fertilizer  for  Cotton,  Tobac¬ 
co,  the  Root  and  Cereal  crops  tliat  tlie  farmer  can  use  to 
obtain  immediate  results  for  liis  outlay,  and  to  periiianeiitly 
eiiricli  the  soil.  For  sale  by 

EDWARD  F.  COOKE  &  CO., 

159  Front-st.,  cor.  Maiden  Lane,  New  York. 


FariR  ibr  Sale. 

THE  WHOLE  OK  IN  FORTIES. 

120  Acres  (70  under  cultivation,  50  in  timber,)  situated  on 
the  Grafton  Road,  upon  tlie  Mississippi  Blnlfs,  H  mile  from 
the  River,  5  miles  west  from  tlie  City  of  Alton,  Ills.,  in  a  dis¬ 
trict  reiiowr.ed  for  its  uncommon  liealtlitiilness,  splendid 
sceiierv,  an-;  excel’ent  society.  The  soil  well  adapted  to  all 
farm  products, is  llrst-ratoforviiie.sand  fruit  of  all  kiiids,wliicli 
find  a  most  prolltalile  market  at  Cliicago,  or  Alton,  or  St. 
Louis.  A  Farm  liouse  and  barn  on  the  "place,  and  on  every 
Blngle  forty,  the  most  clianiiiiig  sites  for  building  family  res¬ 
idences.  Springs  or  .-■very  forty,  wliicli,  if  collected  and 
dammed  up,  would  lui  uisli  water-power  for  any  small  works. 

A  Stage  coacli  to  Alton  and  b.ack  passes  tlie  land  every 
other  day,  and  a  trip  liy  water  or  land  to  St.  Louis,  and  back, 
takes  lint  one  day.  Terms  easy. 

Apply  for  fartlier  iiiformatioii  personally  to  S.  R.  Dolbce, 
Land  Agent,  at  Alton,  or  by  writing  to  the  owner. 

CIlRISTfAN  SCHNEIDER, 

Alton,  Ills.,  Box  269. 


For  sale.— a  "Vulnable  Mill  property  located 

at  Trenton,  New-.Iersey,  in  a  central  part  of  the  city. 
Has  two  Water-wlieels,  six  run  of  Burr  stone,  and  all  neces¬ 
sary  maoliinery  for  extensive  trade.  Mill  40  by  SO.  and  lots 
90  liy  100  feet.  Perpetual  water  right,  witli  Dill  supply  all 
the  year.  Apply  personally  or  bv  letter,  to 

J.  R.  FREESE,  Real  Estate  Agent, 

Trenton,  N.  J. 


FOR  S  A  ff.  E . 

farming  and 

MARKETGARDENING- 
L  A.  TV  I>  S 
IN  NEW  JERSEY. 

THE  SUBSCRIBERS  WILL  SELL  TRACTS  OF  GOOD 
Land  for  farming  and  market  gardening,  in  quantities  to  suit 
piircliasers,  situated  in  the  comities  of  Ocean  and  Burlington, 
oil  tlie  line  of  tlie  Raritan  and  Delaware  Bay  Railroad,"mid- 
ivay  between  New-York  and  Pliiiadelpliia,  at  from  $10  to  $25 
per  acre.  In  addition  to  all  the  coiiinion  products  of  a  farm, 
these  lauds  are  valuable  for  growing  cranberries,  sweet 
potatoes,  peaclies,  grapes,  tobacco  and  bops.  All 
crops  ripen  ten  days  earlier  tliaii  ou  Long  Island. 
Sqiiaiikum  marl  is  delivered  at  any  point  on  tiie  rail¬ 
road  at  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per  ton,  and  fertil¬ 
izes  the  land  for  seven  years  after  its  application.  Tlie 
lands  are  mostly  covered  with  yellow  pine  timber,  suita- 
lile  for  lumber  and  cord  wood.  A  portion  of  Die  timber 
lias  been  recently  cut  oft",  leaving  the  laud  ready  foi'  immedi¬ 
ate  cultivation.  Price  of  cedar  rails,  .$5  per  100.  Cord  wood, 
at  any  railroad  station,  $3  per  cord.  A  portion  of  tlie  lauds 
conta'in  a  large  quantity  ot  tlie  best  potters’  clay  yet  discov¬ 
ered,  for  tlie  manufacture  of  yellow  ware.  Saw-iiiill  witliiii 
one  mile  of  Sliamong  Station.  A  good  liotel  at  Shamong,  on 
tlie  lands  offered  for  sale.  Tlie  location  is  very  healtliy  and 
-water  excellent.  Lands  well  watered  witli  unfailing  streams, 
and  supplied  with  good  iiiill-sites  and  water-power  for  man¬ 
ufacturing  purpose's.  A  portion  of  the  purcliase  money  may 
remain  on  mortgage.  Terms  very  favorable  to  purchasers. 

For  further  particulars  apply  to 

F.  B.  CHETWOOD,  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 

WM.  O.  GILES.  70  &  73  Fraiiklin-st.,  New-York. 
and  N.  P.  TODD,  ag’t  Shamong,  Burlington  Co., 

New  Jersey. 


600  Maryland  and  Virginia  Farms 
and  Timbered  Lands. 

Catalogue  of  Maryland  and  Virginia  Lands,  witli  Geo¬ 
graphical  description  of  Maryland,  for  sale  Ijy  R.  WL  TEM- 
PLEMAN  «&  CO.,  Land  Agents,  48  Lexington-st.,  (up  stairs,) 
Baltimore  City,  embracing  a  description  of  tlie  soil  and  pro¬ 
ducts  ot  Maryland.  Send  25  cents  for  a  copy  of  Catalogue. 


GUFKRIOIEFARM  UArV’R.— 30,000 

Acres,  Franklin  Tract,  at  Newfield,  Gloucester  County, 
New  Jersey,  on  tlie  Railroad  riiiiiiing  from  Pliiiadelpliia  to 
Cape  May,  30  miles  South  of  Pliiiadelpliia— ad.ioining  tlie 
Vineland  'tract,  and  2  miles  North  of  the  Vineland  Station — 
for  sale  at  low  prices  and  on  easy  terms,  in  lots  to  suit  pur¬ 
chasers.  Circulars  witli  reports  of  Solon  Robinson,  Hon. 
William  Parry,  and  others,  with  full  information,  sent  to  ap¬ 
plicants,  free.  Address  .lOIItf  II.  COFFIN  &  CO,,  New- 
lleld,  Gloucester  Co..  N.  J.  Improved  Farms  also  for  Sale. 


Farm  for  sale,  with  iuimediute  possession, 

120  Acres  in  liigh  cultivation ;  Brick  Residence,  -lO.xSO ;  16 
Rooms; 'I’wo  Tena-iit  Houses;  W'ells,  Pumps,  Cisterns.  Barn, 
Stables,  etc.,  all  new  and  in  perfect  order.  Large  Garden 
Orchard,  700  Fruit  Trees,  Vineyard,  800  Vines,  Haiidsoiiie, 
furniture.  Crops,  Stock,  Implements,  &c.  Not  .a  mile  fi'Oiii 
Post  Oflicc,  R.  R.  Depot,  Telegraph,  Canal.  A  complete  Es¬ 
tate  ready  for  occupation  of  a  genteel  family.  Situation 
healthy,  picturesque,  near  the  Susqueliaiina,  Pa.  Part  may 
remain  on  mortgage.  R.  FENNER,  "Watsontown,  Penii’a. 


IT'ARM  WANTED  in  exchansje  for  good  produc- 
'  tive  City  property.  Address  ADAMS,  witli  full  descrip¬ 
tion  and  price,  P.  O.  Bo.\  202,  Brooklyn,  N,  Y. 


For  Christmas  aad  the  Holidays. 

EVERY  READER  OF  THE  AGRICULTURIST  SHOULD 
“™E  MOST  LAUGHABLE 
EARTH,’'^or,  the  new  one,  ‘  THREE  MERRY 
Oct.  No.,  page  327,  or,  “  GINGER 
SNAPS,"  25  cts.,  nci  red  clotli,  50  cts.  See  May  No.,  page 
165  or,  “MAGIC  CARDS.”  30  cts.  See  July  No.  page  2ffi. 
Ah  these  for  oW  and  young.  Let  tlie  little  children  have 
THE  CiHOPPED-UP  M(5nKEY,”  15  cts.  "We  will  send 
am- one  our  favorite  hook.  “MORE  THAN  ONE  HUN¬ 
DRED  THINGS  WORTH  KNOWING,”  for  NOTHING,  Oil 
receipt  of  one  stamp  for  postage.  Address  ADAMS  &  CO., 
21  Beomfield  Street,  Boston. 


^HE  PHANTOM  OF  THE  WILDERNESS 
EMERSON  BENNETT’S  New  Novelet  will  be  com¬ 
menced  in  THE  SATURDAY  EtTENING  POST,  on  the 
first  of  January.  Mr.  Bennett  now  writes  exclusively  for 
THE  POST.  Also  a  liost  of  otlier  popular  writers.  WHEEL¬ 
ER  &  WILSON’S  S55  SEWING  MACHINES  are  given  as 
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News  Dealers. 


C:)HA.l>rO-E  of  IV-.A.IVFE. 

The  Firm  heretofore  doing  business  as  “  AMSDEN  &  CO., 
Publishers,  14  Brojifieli)  St.,  Boston,”  changes  its  name 
and  style  to  ADAMS  &  CO.,  21  Beomfield  St.,  from  this 
date  ;  and  will,  by  a  strict  adherence  to  its  motto,  “  Prompt¬ 
ness  and  lieliability,"  endeavor  to  merit  a  continuance  ot 
tlie  liberal  patronage  tints  far  awarded.  Correspondents 
will  please  notice  tlie  change,  and  direct  their  letters  and 
orders  accordingly. 

American  Cotton  Planter. 

Pnblislied  Montlilj-,  in  Montgomery,  Ala.,  by 

N.  B.  CLOULD,  M.  D.,  Editor  and  Proprietor. 

TERMS, 


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<SW  WTll  issue  promptly  the  first  day  of  January,  1866. 


'T'HE  SATURDAY  EVENING  POST.— 

A  First-Class  Literary  Paper— Edited  by  Mrs.  Bella 
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gy,  Phrenology,  Physiology,  Psychology,  etc.  The 
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based  on  Etlinology,  Pliysiology,  and  Phrenology,  illustra¬ 
ted  with  more  than  1000  Engravings.  Complete  in  four 
parts,  $4.00,  sent  by  post. 

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address  free  of  cliarge;  every  farmer  should  have  it. 
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1805.] 


AMERICAN  AG-RIOULTURIST, 


391 


Two  Mew  Hooks 

By  OLIVER  OPTIU ! 

NOW  KEADY. 

THE.  YANKEE  BIIOHY, 
or. 

The  Adventures  of  a  Naval  Officer. 

A  Sequel  to  THE  SAILOR  BOY.  Pkioe-$1.50. 

WORK  ANB  WINS 
or 

NODDY  NEWMAN  ON  A  CRUISE. 

Being  Number  Pour  of  the  favorite  Woodville  Stokies. 
Price— $1.23. 

Two  New  Prucly  Books  I 
liITTBE  PRUDY’S  DOTTY  DIMPBE, 
BITTIiB  PRPDY’S  STORY  BOOK— 
Completing  tlie  Series. — Price,  each  73  cents. 

In  Press  ! — Will  be  published  Dec.  lOtU, 
“PIOHTINO  JOE.” 

By  OLIVER  OPTIC. 

A  sequel  to  Soldier  Botand  Young-  Lieutenant. 
Price— $1.50. 

Published  by  LEE  &  SHEPARD,  Boston. 

For  Sale  by  all  Booksellers.  Sent  by  mall,  postage  paid, 
upon  receipt  of  advertised  price.  (Please  refer  to  adver¬ 
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The  Hitisiait  Face  Hivliie.” 

A  New  System  of  Physiognomy,— Eyes,  Ears,  Nose,  Lips, 
Mouth,  Head,  Hair,  Eyebrows,  Hands,  Feet,  Skin,  Complex¬ 
ion,  with  all  “Signs  of  Character,  and  How  to  Read  Them,” 
given  in 

THE  PHRENOLOGICAL  JOURNAL, 

SAMUEL  R.  WELLS,  Editor. 

Ethnology,  Natural  History  of  Man,  nations  and 
races  described.  Illustrations. 

Physiology,  Heart,  Lungs,  Stomacli,  Bones,  Muscles, 
and  Nervous  System. 

Phrenology,  and  the  Temperaments,  Man’s  Intellec¬ 
tual,  Social,  and  Moral  Nature. 

Physiognomy,  with  all  the  various  “  Signs  of  Charac¬ 
ter,  and  How  to  Read  Them.” 

Psychology,  the  “  Science  of  the  Soul,”  Man’s  rela¬ 
tions  to  this  life,  and  tlie  life  to  come.” 


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THE  DECEMBER  NO.  OF  MERRY- 
M.\N’S  MONTHLY  contains  in  addition  to  the 
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35  Paris  Row,  New  York. 


893  AMERICAN  AGBICULTURIST.  [DecembeeV 

(Business  noticeS“$l  25  per  agate  line  o/ apace.) 

GJ^rape  Vines  of  all  tlie  Handy  Varieties^  Old  and  IXew^  tliat  are 

now  in  g-eneral  cnltivation. 

Chief  above  theiii  all  in  ETEISY  IMPOiUTANT  FAKTICCLAK,  as  well  as  in 

general  excellenee,  is  the 

IONA. 

And  earliest  of  all  good  G-rapes,  and  only  second  if  not  equal  in  value  to  the  lona^  is  the 

I  S  R  A  E  L  L  A  . 

’  I  IIIIPI^  0  aa  — - - 


THESE  TWO  SEEDLINGS  were  produced 
through  a  preparatory  process  best  calculated 
to  develope  the  excellence  of  pkuit,  and  at 
the  same  time  secure  the  strongest  and  most 
healthfitl  constitution  op  stock. 

THE  RESULT  has  been  a  high  degree- of 
improvement  of  all  the  good  qualities  of  our 
natives  in  the  ISRAELLA,  with  a  great  increase 
of  hardy  enduring  character  of  vine,  and  ex¬ 
treme  earliness. 

IN  THE  CASE  OF  THE  IONA,  the 

CHANGE  OP  CHARACTER  IS  SO  RADICAL  AS  MORE 
NEARLY  TO  RESEMBLE  THE  ORIGINATION  OP  A 
DISTINCTLY  NEW  SPECIES. 

It  is  not  a  cross  in  which  something  is  yield¬ 
ed  on  one  side  to  take  some  excellence  on  the 
othei’,  but  ALL  of  the  excellences  of  both  sides 
in  their  liighest  degree,  are  here  native,  constitu¬ 
ting  an  ORIGINAL  THOROUGHBRED,  with 
full  original  native  strength  of  constitution. 

In  constancy  of  production  and  perfect  ripen¬ 
ing  of  its  fruit,  it  is  unequalled  among  our 
most  hardy  natives,  while  in  refinement  and  ex¬ 
cellence  of  fiavor  it  equals  the  best  foreign  kinds 
and  surpasses  them  all  in  animating  and  exhilar¬ 
ating  spirit.  It  ripens  very  early — before  Con¬ 
cord,  and  has  proved  by  extensive  trial  to  be 
more  hardy. 

It  is  tlie  only  American  grape  that  has  suffi¬ 
cient  uniform  ricliness  and  tenderness  of  ficsh, 
with  vinous  spirit,  to  make  the  best  of  raisins 
like  tliose  from  the  Muscat  of  Alexandria. 

Tlie  testimonials  in  regard  to  it  from  actual 
trial,  are  uniformly  of  the  same  import  from 
the  Nortli  and  South,  and  from  the  Atlantic 
coast,  to  far  beyond  the  Mississippi,  West. 

Thomas  Meehan,  (Editor  of  Gardener’s 
Moiitldy,  Philadelphia,)  who  has  always  enter¬ 
tained  a  strong  predilection  for  the  foreign 
kinds,  says;  “To  say  that  the  Iona  grapes 
were  delicious  is  only  to  express  the  flavor  of 
these  beautiful  berries.  We  have  a  weakness 
for  the  flavor  of  the  foreign  grape,  hut  should 
hesitate  now  whether  to  prefer  a  Muscat  of 
Alexandria,  or  this.  *  *  *  There  need  le 
hut  one  opinion  about  this  being  the  best  grape 
ever  known  here."  In  a  letter  ho  says,  “  both, 
in  exquisite  beauty,  and  in  fine,  rich,  spirited 
flavor,  the  Iona  stands  peerless;  above  all  other 
grapes.”  (Signed)  Thomas  Meehan. 


“The  best  American  grape  yet  introduced. 

*  *  *  The  great  beauty  of  the  Iona  is  not 
equalled  by  any  native  variety,  and  perhaps  not 
surpassed  by  any  foreign  one.” 

American  Agriculturist. 

“The  best  of  the  whole  list.  The  best  grape 
in  America.”  Solon  Robinson. 

“  There  is  great  surprise  at  finding  the  Iona  so 
good.  *  *  Of  the  Iona  I  hear  nothing  Mit  praise, 

*  *  every  time  I  taste  it  the  better  I  like  it.” 

Mr.  Meeker,  in  W.  J".  Tribune,  from  Chicago- 

“  The  Committee  beg  leave  to  report  that  they 

found  the  Iona  a  most  luscious  grape,  *  *■ 
and  have  no  hesitation  in  placing  it  at  the 
head  of  all  native  kinds,  eren  above  the  Dela¬ 
ware.”  “In  this  judgement  all  the  members  of 
the  Society,  as  well  as  of  the  Committee,  une¬ 
quivocally  concurred.” 

Report  of  the  St.  Louis,  (Mo.,)  IIorticxMural 
Society. — Mr.  J.  H.  TiCE,  Chairman. 

The  Indiana  Horticultural  Society,  at  the 
Pair,  unanimously  awarded  the  premium  for 
the  best  Ydfiety  of  native  grapes  to  the  Iona. 
Tlie  Cincinnati  Horticultural  Society,  awarded 
the  First  Premium  to  the  IONA.  Pennsyl¬ 
vania  State  Fair  awarded  First  Premidi  tO' 
the  IONA.  At  the  great  exhibition  at  Sandus¬ 
ky,  where  it  came  in  competition  wdth  all  of 
the  best  grapes  grown  at  Kelly’s  Island,  and  the 
whole  south  shore  of  Lake  Erie,  which  is  the 
paradise  of  the  Catawba,  First  Premitoi  to 
IONA,  for  “twelve  bunches  best  variety,  q^l.al- 
ity  to  rule.'”  A  friend  writes  here,  “  the  testing 
was  done  by  thousands  and  the  Iona  carried 
all  of  the  people  as  well  as  Committees 
WITH  IT.”  At  New-England  Fair,  Diploma  as 
best  native  grape.  At  Michigan,  Iowa,  and  at 
all  of  the  other  States  and  County  Fairs,  where  : 
entered  for  competition,  (ivith  one  exception,)  it  , 
received  the  highest  testimonials  of  excellence. 

In  Sept,  1864,  it  received  the  award  of  the 
Greeley  Prize  of  One  Hundred  Dollars. 

On  page  355  of'  Agriculturist  see  extract  from  Report 
of  Committee,  consisting  of  MITssks.  Peter  B.  Mead, 
R.  G.  Pardee,  and  Francis  Brill.  The  best  and  most 
important  ever  made  on  grapes. 

The  earliness,  hardiness,  and  rroducTivenEss  of 
THE  Iona.— For  severai  years  as  the  vines  gain  in  matur¬ 
ity,  tlie  period  of  ripening  advances  nearly  a  week  yearly. 
Extract  from  Mr.  Charles  Downing.  “  The  past  two- 
seasons  the  Iona  being  the  first  seasons  of  fruiting  with 
me,  ripened  a  little  later  than  tlie  Delaware,  but  this  sea¬ 
son  a  week  earlier.  *  *  The  Israella  ripened  as  early  as 
the  Hartford  Prolific,  or  before  it,  beginning  to  color  i 
aboi  t  one  week  earlier.  Botti  Iona  and  Isl'aella  h;we__l 


so  far  proved  hardy  and  vigorous,  and  their  foliage 
has  been  much  less  injured  by  mildew  than  that  of  DEL¬ 
AWARE,  CONCORD,  AND  MOST  OTHER  KINDS.” 

From  Mr.  Marie,  a  most  intelligent  cultivator  of  for¬ 
eign  and  native  grapes.  “  Catawbas.  entirely  gone  with 
rot.  Concord  much  injured  in  the  fruit — not  nearly  half  a 
CJ'dp.  The  Iona  has  gone  through  this  most  trying  sea¬ 
son  triumphantly.  I  shall  plant  nothing  but  Iona.” 

From  A.  Thomson,  Delaware,  Oliio  : 

“  The  Israella  is  the  best  and  liandsomest  black  grape 
I  ever  saw  and  tasted,  but  the  Iona  especially  carries  all 
before  it,  both  for  beauty  and  excellence  of  flavor.” 

From  Rev.  I.  B.  Britton,  Chilicothe,  Ohio,  Aug.  oOth  : 

“I  have  now  on  its  second  year  the  Iona,  bearing  a 
few- splendid  bunches  fully  ripe.  The  Israella  has  also 
borne  fruit  fully  ripe  the  10th  of  August.  The  vines  liave 
made  a  wonderful  grow-th,  and  give  the  strongest  proof  of 
strength  and  hardiness.  I  am  forming  a  large  club  of  both 
Iona  and  Israella.” 

From  Mr.  Isaac  Leonard,  Burlington,  Iowa : 

“  The  vines  received  from  you  have  done  well ;  not 
one  has  failed.  My  brother  hits  carried  out  your  direc¬ 
tions  in  the  manual  to  the  letter,  and  made  a.grand  sue 
cess.  The  -Iona  and  Israella  indicate  great  hardiness.” 

From  Rev.  W.  H.  Paddock,  Delaware  City. 

Dr.  C.  W.  Grant,  Dear  Sir: — “Your  Iona  grape, 
brings  vividly  to  mind  Muscatof  Alexandria,  but  the  Iona 
lias  more  of  the  spirit  of  wine.  *  *  I  have  determined  to 
do  all  that  I  can  in  the  beneficent  work  of  disseminating 
the  Iona  in  tlie  States  of  Delaware  and  Maryland,  not 
only  for  the  abundant  supply  of  grapes  for  the  table, 
but  for  GOOD  WINE.  I  hope  also  to  have  all  of  my  seven 
sons  become  practical  vineyardists.” 

(Signed)  W.  H.  Paddock. 

All  who  observe  truly  the  signs  of  the  times, 
as  Mr.  Paddock  has  done,  will  see  that  the 
IONA  and  Israella  will  displace  all  other  kinds 
as  soon  as  the  plants  can  he  produced  to  do  it. 

GRAPE  CULTURE,  with  the  IONA  lead¬ 
ing,  presents  a  new  aspect.  See  adv.  page  355. 

For  tlie  preliminary  study  of  the  grape,  to  aid  those  in 
■choosing,  who  desire  to  plant  one  vine  or  many,  I  have 
prepared  a  pamplitet  entitled  “  Our  Native  Grapes.”  con¬ 
taining  afso  tlie  “  Present  and  Future  of  vine  culture  in 
America,  witli  a  full  account  of  the  origin,  qualities,  and 
cfcaracleristics  of  the  Iona  and  Israella.”  Sent  for  a 
two-cent  Mamp.  It  lias  fine  engravings  of  tlie  Iona  and 
Isi-aiella  vines  in  bearing. 

F-or  tlie  thoroiigli  study  of  the  subject  I  liave  prepared 
the  “Manual  of  the  Vine,”  wliicli  is  drawn  from  long 
and  extensive  experience  in  grape  culture.  It  is  illus¬ 
trated  with  about  One  Hundred  and  F'ifty  engravings, 
ohieliy  drawn  from  life,  for  the  work.  I  commend  it  as 
the  most  thorough  and  compiele  treatise  on  tlie  vine  in 
the  English  language.  The  Illustrated  .and  Descriptive 
'Catalogues  are  no  longer  published  separately,  but  botli 
■are  included  in  the  Manual. 

Having  the  original  vines,  and  abundance  of  mature 
wood  from  establislied  vines  to  luopagale  from,  such  as 
no  one  else  can  command,  besides  exlensively  luepared 
■grounds  and  otlier  unequalled  facilities  for  the  produc¬ 
tion  of  Hie  best  plants,'  I  am  able  to  oiler  better  and 
cliflSSfcer  vines  than  any  other  cstablislirnent  can  furnish, 
^owftry  cheap  vine.s  for  nurserymen  and  propagators. 
iffiayAlso  very  finely  rooted  plants  grown  from  green 
at  very  low  rales.  These  are  suited  for  special 
purposes,  but  not  for  general  planting.  Mil  vines  are 
chiefly  grown  in  VERY  BROAD  BORDERS,  but  some 
in  large  pots  for  extra  price. 

Chib  propositions  sent  with  tlie  pamphlet  without 
charge.  Ttiese  offer  most  liberal  and  advantageous 
terms  to  all  purcliasers,  whether  by  dozens,  to  he  sent 
singly  by  mail  to  as  many  different  offices,  or  by  thous¬ 
ands.  Samples  of  vines  sent  on  application,  and  engrav¬ 
ings  and  other  facilities  afforded  to  those  who  desire  to 
form  clubs.  The  safe  reception  of  the  vines  is  in  all 
cases  giiarantecAt.  0.  W.  GRANT, 

Iona,  (near  Peekskill)  Westchester  Co.,  N.  Y. 


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