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TRANSACTIONS C?^^-'^

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES

Itiite iif Siinsiujituutis,

1852.

ALSO THE

PROCEEDINGS

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

>i*

-^ COLLATED AND TRKPAKED

BY AMASA WALKER,

SECRETARY, PRO TEM.

BOSTON:

WHITE & POTTER, PRINTERS TO THE STATE.

1853.

l-B S-l

ADVERTISEMENT.

By the act of 1852, chap. 142, establishing the State
Board of Agriculture, it was provided that " all the duties
of the Secretary of the Commonwealth relating to the
returns of agricultural societies shall be performed by the
Secretary of the Board of Agriculture/' In compliance
with this enactment, the annual returns of the different
agricultural societies were placed in the hands of the
Secretary, j;ro tempore^ of the State Board, by whom the
present volume of Transactions has been prepared.

The returns have been found more full and valuable in
statistics and . in statements of experiments, than in pre-
ceding years, and more societies have published their pro-
ceedings in a pamphlet form ; a practice that ought to
become universal, since the usefulness and prosperity of
any society is greatly promoted thereby. No regular
system having yet been established in regard to returns,
there is a want of uniformity in them, and the results are
therefore less satisfactory than they would otherwise be ;
while the labor of collating them is increased many fold.
These difficulties will doubtless all be obviated hereafter.
A State Board having been organized and intrusted with
full power and discretion in regard to the matter, such
forms and tables will be furnished to the several societies,

iv ADVERTISEMENT.

and such statements required of them, as will secure very-
desirable improvements, and render the future volumes
of the Transactions more complete and reliable than the
present.

The greatly increased interest in the subject of agricul-
ture, too, which is pervading all parts of the Common-
wealth, cannot fail to enhance the efficiency of the several
societies.

The State Board having, after considerable delay, suc-
ceeded in securing the services of Charles L. Flint, Esq.,
as its permanent Secretary, a gentleman of high qualifi-
cations for the office and greatly devoted to the interests
of agriculture, we may confidently anticipate that a new
and powerful impulse will be given to the cause in
Massachusetts.

The present volume consists of two parts ; first, an
abstract of the Transactions of the several agricultural
societies enjoying the patronage of the State ; secondly,
the Proceedings of the State Board of Agriculture. An
Appendix is added, containing the Laws of the Common-
wealth in relation to agricultural societies. This, it is
believed, will be found convenient for reference by all
persons concerned in the management of such societies.

The important enactment of the present legislature,
changing the time when the annual returns of the socie-
ties must be made in order to secure the bounty of .the
State, is deserving of particular attention.

A.W.
May, 1853.

MEMBERS OF THE STATE BOARD OF AGRI-
CULTURE FOR 1853.

EX OFFICIIS.

His Excellency JOHN H. CLIFFORD.
His Hoxok ELISHA HUNTINGTON.
E. M. WRIGHT, Secretary of State.

APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR AND COUNCIL.

EDWARD HITCHCOCK.
MARSHALL P. WILDER.
NATHANIEL WOOD.

MEMBERS CHOSEN BY THE DIFFERENT AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

Essex — J. W. PROCTOR.

Middlesex- SmOS BRO^\^^

IForm^er- HARVEY DODGE.

Worcester West - WILLIAM P ARKHURST.

Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden — iO^^VH SMTTH.

I7«mijrf*«- FRANCIS BRE^\^R.

FranUin-B.. W. CLAPP.

Hampshire — i. A. NASH.

^erfoA»e- STEPHEN REED.

Housatonic — Z. R. LAA\TON.

JNar/bZ/c-B. Y. FRENCH.

Plymouth -^mYi. SPRAGUE.

Bristol- Z. H. W. PAGE.

BarmtahU-G. B. H. FESSENDEN.

CHARLES L. FLINT, Secretary.

CONTENTS.

Advertisement, - - . - - . - Page iii

Returns of the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agri-

CULTURE,

Report

Jersey Cattle, - - -

ETURNS OF THE EsSEX AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY,

Report

, Poultry,

Sheep, ...

Nathan Page's Letter,

((

Swine, . - -

((

Stallions, . _ -

((

Mares, ...

Colts,

((

Working Oxen,

Teams of Working Oxen,

((

Steers, . . -

Fat Cattle, -

((

Bulls,

((

Heifers, - . -

Josiah Crosby's Statement,

J. Kittredge's "

((

Milch Cows, ...

Statements respecting particular

Cows,

Ploughing with Single Teams,

((

" " Double Teams,

((

" « Horse Teams,

((

Dairy, _ _ _

Statements respecting particular

Dairies, -

((

Agricultural Implements,

((

Root Crops, - -

Statements respecting particular

Crops,

Grain Crops, - - -

Statements respecting particular

Grain Crops,

((

Fruits, - _ .

((

Introduction of new Fruits, -

((

Vegetables, ...

Farms, . _ .

viii CONTENTS.

J. Holt, Jr.'s, Statement, - - - Page 64

Levi Bartlett's Letter, . - . _ 66

Report on Fattening Cattle and Swine, - - - - 68

" " Manures, ----- _ 70

" « Flowers, ------ 71

Essay on Sheep Husbandry, ----- 71

Returns of the Middlesex Agricultural Society, - - 84

Report on Farms, &c., ------ 85

Questions to applicants for premiums on farms, - 89

Statements respecting particular Farms, - - 90

« " Orchards, 98

Statements respecting particular Orchards, - 98

" " Pear Orchards, ----- 102

J. T. Buckingham's Statement, - - - 102

" " Reclaimed Meadows, ----- 105

William Brown's Statement, _ _ _ 105

" " Apples and Pears, ----- 105

« " Butter, ------ 109

J. F. Rice's Statement, - - - - 110

« " Horses, ------ 111

« « Bulls and Bull Calves, - - - - 111

« " Heifers, ------ 115

Particular statements respecting Heifers, - - 116

« " Milch Cows, ------ 118

« " Ploughing with Double Teams, - - - 120

« " « " Single Teams, - - - 121

" " " " Horse Teams, - - - 122

« " Fat Cattle, 122

Statement respecting Fat Cattle, - - - 123

Returns of the Worcester County Agricultural Society, - 124

Report on Ploughing Match, ----- 124

" " Working Oxen, ----- 126

" " Fat Cattle, - 127

" « Sheep, 128

" " Swine, 129

" " Steers of three years old, - - » - - 130

*• " " under three years old, - - - - 131

" " " not less than two years old, - - - 131

" " Heifers less than two years old, - - - 132

" " Bulls under one year old, - - - - 134

" » Milch Cows, ------ 134

Statement respecting particular Cows, - - 138

« " Poultry, .--..- 140

« " Cheese, ------ 141

« " Butter, ------ 144

StatementofW.S.L., Secretary, - - - 146

CONTENTS. ix

Report on Bulls, ----__ Page 146
" " Farms, - - - - _ _ J49
Holloway Bailey's Statement, - - - 149
" " Meadow Swamp and Uplands, - - _ 153
Harvey Dodge's Statement respecting his Improve-
ments, ----- 157
" " Root Crops, --.-._ 1(35
Statements respecting particular Crops, - - 170
" " Feeding, -.-_._ 177
Statements respecting particular experiments in

Feeding, - - - . _ ]89

Hon. J. W. Lincoln's Letter, - _ _ gig

Returns of the Worcester West Agricultural Society, - 219

Report on Horses, Mares and Colts, - - _ . 220

" " Mares and Colts, - . _ . _ 22I

" " Ploughing, ------ 222

" " Working Oxen, - . . . _ 222

" Bulls, 223

" " Dairy Cows, ----.. 225

Statements respecting particular Cows, - - 225

" " Heifers, -..___ 229

" " Steers and Calves, - - - _ _ 229

'« " Fat Oxen, ------ 231

" " Town Teams, - - . _ _ 231

" Sheep, 232

" " Swine, --..__ 232

*' " Poultry, ------ 233

" " Butter, 233

» " Cheese, --.... 234

" '• Root Crops, - - - - - - 234

Statements respecting particular Crops, - - 235

« " Grain Crops, ----- _ 237

Calvin Earle's Statement, - - - - 237

" " Ploughs, ..-..- 238

" " Fruits, ----.. 238

" " Farms, ...... 238

Returns of Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin Agricultural

Society, - - - - -- - - 245

Report on Farms, - - - - - . 245

Statements respecting particular Farms, - . 247

" " Ploughing, ..---_ 249

" " Horses, ----.. 252

" " Manures, ------ 256

W. P. Dickinson's Statement, - - - 256

" " Carrot Crop, ------ 257

W. P. Dickinson's Statement, - - - 257
B

CONTENTS.

Report on Rye Crop, - . . . _ Page 258

W. Huntington's Statement, - - - 258

« « Corn Crop, 259

M. C. Porter's Statement, - - - - 259

« " Stock, 260

" " Poultry, 263

" " Bread, Butter and Cheese, - - - - 265

Returns of the Hampden Agricultural Society, - - 268

Report on Grain Crops, ------ 268

Wheat— A. M. Carleton's Statement, - - 268

Corn— W. Cooley's Statement, - - - 269

" J. C. Parsons's " . . - 269

Oats — P. Stillman's Statement, - - - 271

" Walter Cooley's " . . _ 272

" " Root Crop— J. P. Dickinson's Statement, - - 272

« " Milch Cows, ------ 273

Returns of the Franklin County Agricultural Society, - 282

Report on Ploughing, ---.._ 282

" " Grain and Root Crops, - . _ - 287

Statements respecting particular Crops, - - 288

" « Sheep, ------ 296

" " Fat Cattle, ------ 298

" " Town Teams, . - - - . 299

« " Fowls, ------ 300

" " Butter, ----.. 301

" " Bread, ------ 303

" " Fruit, ------ 304

Returns of the Hampshire Agricultural Society, - - 307

Report on Farms, ---_._ 307

Statements respecting particular Farms, - - 310

" " Reclaimed Meadow Land, - - - - 314

Statements respecting the same, - - - 316

« " Grain Crops, 318

Statements respecting such crops, - - - 320

" " Root Crops, 324

Statements respecting Root Crops, - " - - 326

" Butter, 328

" " Fruit Trees, ------ 330

Statements respecting Orchards, - - - 332

" " Swine, 334

" " Compost Manures, ----- 335

Statements respecting such Manures, - - 336

Returns of the Berkshire Agricultural Society, - - 339

Report on Ploughing, ------ 340

" " Grain and Root Crops, - - - - 342

" " Orchards, ------ 344

CONTENTS.

Report

I Wheat,

Page 345

Statements respecting particular

Crops of Wheat,

348

((

Butter and Cheese,

350

((

Fruits, (fee, - - -

351

((

Milch Cows, - - -

353

Statements respecting particulai

• Cows,

354

Horses, . . .

357

((

Sheep, - _ -

359

((

Agricultural and Mechanical Implements,

361

Returns of the Housatonic Agricultural Society,

363

Report

Agricultural Productions,

365

Statements respecting particular

Crops,

371

((

Ploughing, - - -

373

Oxen and Steers,

375

((

Milch Cows, Heifers and Calves,

376

((

Swine and Poultry,

378

Sheep, . _ -

318

((

Horses, _ _ .

379

((

Grass Seed, - - -

381

Returns of the Norfolk Agricultural Society,

383

Report

of Committee on Farms, -

385

H. W. Jones's Statement, -

388

Ploughing — Double Teams, -

389

((

" Single Teams, -

390

" Horse Teams,

391

Spading, . _ -

392

Agricultural Implements,

395

Sheep, . _ .

399

((

Cows, _ _ _

401

Statements respecting particular

Cows,

405

Bulls,

407

((

Heifers, _ . -

409

Steers, . _ _

411

((

Horses, _ _ _

411

((

Working Oxen,

412

((

Swine, _ . .

413

((

Poultry, - _ -

417

Bread, _ _ _

417

((

Butter,

418

Roots and Root Culture,

419

Statement of P. L. Fearing,

419

((

Fruits and Flowers, -

421

((

Grain Crops, - - -

423

Statements respecting particular

Crops,

425

Report

of the Trustees on the Culture of Whe

at,

425

-435

S. Frothingham, Jr.'s, Statement ofa particular Cro

440

Report

Peach Orchards,

441

Xll

CONTENTS.

Jason Reed's Statement, - - - Page 442

Report on Clearing and Enclosing Unimproved Lands, - - 443

A. D. Weld's Statement, - - - - 445

Suggestions written at the request of the Trustees,

by Hon. B. V. French, - - - 449

«« " Essays, ....-- 452

Essay on Soiling Cattle, by Hon. Josiah Quincy, Sen., - - 453

" " The Principles of Ploughing, by Sanford Howard, Esq., 462

" " The Basket Willow, by John Fleming, Jr., Esq., - 474

Returns of the Plymouth Agricultural Society,

Report on Improvements, _ _ _ _

« » Produce, -----

Forest Trees — Daniel Allen's Statement, -
Compost Manures — Seth Sprague's "
" " J. L. Bassett's "

" « A. Fobes's "

Indian Corn — C. Leavitt's "

G. W. Wood's "

" " R. Sampson's «

" " M. Leonard's "

" " J. Copeland's "

" " S. Leonard, Jr.'s, "

Subsoiling — H. and V. Ames's "

" B. Hobart's "

Small Grains — S. Leonard, Jr.'s, "
Root Crops— B. Hobart's "

" « S. Sprague's "

" " Jona. Copeland's "

Onions and Squashes — A. Bassett's "
" " A.J.Roberts's"

" " N.Whitman's"

« " Dairy, . - . . .

" " Horses and Colts, . . - -

" " Stock, -----

" " Swine, ^ -

" " Ploughing, - - - - ^ -

« " Steers, - - - - ^ -

" " Working Oxen, . - - .

" « Beef Cattle,

Essay on Compost Manures, by J. E. Howard, -

Returns of the Bristol County Agricultural Society,

Report on Farm Improvements, - - - -

H. Copeland's Statement, - - -

« « Crops,

Statements respecting Crops,
" " Butter, Ciieese, Bread and Honey,

481
482
484
491
492
493
494
494
495
496
497
497
498
499
499
500
500
501
502
502
503
503
504
504
505
507
508
509
509
510
511

520
522
522
523
523
525

CONTENTS.

xui

Report on Agricultural Products, _ . -

" " Fruits and Flowers, - - - - -

« " Ornamental and Forest Trees, . _ -

" " Heavy Manufactures, - - - - -

« " Domestic Manufactures, _ - - -

" " Fat Cattle, Horses and Steers, . - -

" " Breeding Stock, . - - - -

" " Sheep and Swine, - - - - -

" " Poultry, ------

" " Ploughing with Oxen, - - - -

u " " " Horses and Steers, - - -

« " Working Cattle, . - - - -

Returns of the Barnstable Agricultural Society,

Report on Farms, Grain Crops, &c., - - - -

Statements of different individuals,
" " Cranberries, ------

L. Hamblin's Statement, - -

" " Sheep and Swine, - - - - "

Abstract showing for what objects Premiums were offered and
awarded, and the amount of the same, - - -

Abstract showing the aggregate amount of Premiums offered and
awarded by the different Agricultural Societies,

Agricultural Exhibitions for 1853, - - - "

Selections from Addresses to Agricultural Societies :~

The Fanner must be Educated : Extracts from an Address by Gen.

H. K. Oliver, at the last Fair of the Essex County Society,
Chemisliy in its relations to .Agriculture: Extracts from an Address
before the Middlesex County Society, by Hon. L. V. Bell,
at its last Exhibition, ----""

What has been and is doing for the general advancement of Agricul-
ture : Extract from an Address by Prof. J. J. Mapes, Editor of
the Working Farmer, before the Worcester County Society, at
its last Exhibition, ---"""
Fads in relation to the Germination and Growth of Indian Corn :
Extracts from an Address at the last Fair of the Hampshire,
Franklin and Hampden Society, by John SUnton Gould, of
Hudson, N. Y., - -

An Agricultural Education the great need of the American Agri-
culturist : Extracts from an Address delivered at the last Fair of
the Norfolk County Society, by W. S. King, Esq., of Rhode
Island, -------

What Government ought to do for Agncidture : Extracts from an
Address delivered before the Bristol County Society, Oct. 15,
1852, by Hon. R. C. Winthrop, - - - -

526

529

534

535

537

539

541

543

546
546
546
550
550
551

556

561
562

563

580

600

613

628

637

xiv CONTENTS.

Importance of ./Igricullure : Extracts from an Address delivered
before the Plymouth County Society at its last Fair, by Hon. J.
H. W.Page, of New Bedford, - - - Page 641

Inklligent .Agriculture : Extracts from an Address delivered at the
last Exhibition of the Barnstable County Society, by Simon

Brown, Esq., Editor of the New England Farmer, - - 650

Proceedings of the State Board of Agriculture for the

Year 1852, 661

First Annual Report of the Board of Agriculture, - - 663

Reports of Delegates, ..-_-_ 673

Dr. Hitchcock's Report on the Essex Society, - - - 674

Mr. Walker's Report on the Middlesex Society, - - - 677

Mr. Brewer's Report on the Worcester West Society, - - 679

Gov. Boutwell's Report on the Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden

Society, ------- 681

Mr. Nash's Report on the Hampden Society, _ - - 682

Mr. Page's Report on the Franklin Society, - - . 683

Dr. Reed's Report on the Hampshire Society, - - - 686

Mr. Proctor's Report on the Berkshire Society, - - - 690

Mr. Lawton's Report on the Housatonic Society, - - 696

Mr. Walker's Report on the Norfolk Society, - - - 698

Mr. Page's Report on the Franklin Society, - - - 702

Mr. Sprague's Report on the Bristol Society, - - - 704

Mr. Sprague's Report on the Barnstable Society, - - 707

Essays on Jlgricullural Subjects, - - - - - 711

On Orchards, by John C. Gray, ----- 711

" Neat Cattle, by Seth Sprague, . . - - 726

" Culture of Vegetables as Farm Products, by J. W. Proctor, - 732

" Subsoil Ploughing and Thorough Draining, by B. V. French, 740

" Cows for Dairy Purposes, &c., by William Parkhurst, - 743

" Indian Corn, the Value of the Crop, &c., by J. R. Lawton, - 753

" Education of the Young Farmer, by Simon Brown, - - 758

" Best method of laying down land to Grass, and continuing the

product, by Francis Brewer, - _ _ . 769

" Farmers' Clubs, by Stephen Reed, - - - - 772

Appendix : —

Laws of Massachusetts in relation to Agricultural Societies, - 775

Act to Establish the State Board, - - - - 781

AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS FOR 1853.

Worcester County Society, September 21 & 22.

Norfolk County Society, . . '. . . . « 27 & 28.

Essex County Society, " 28 & 29.

Housatonic County Society, " 28 «fc 29.

Worcester West County Society, .... " 30.

Bristol County Society, October 4 & 5.

Middlesex County Society, " 4 & 5.

Berkshire County Society, " 5 & 6.

Plymouth County Society, " 6.

Franklin County Society, « 6 & 7.

Barnstable County Society, ..*... " 7.

Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden, Society, , . " 11 & 12.

Hampden County Society, " 13 & 14.

Hampshire County Society, " 26.

ABSTRACT.

MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY FOR PROMOTING
AGRICULTURE.

The President and Secretary of the Massachusetts Society
for Promoting Agriculture, report to the Secretary of the Com-
monwealth, as is made their duty to do, by the statute of
1847, that the records of their transactions are made, as here-
tofore, mostly of reports concerning the care of the imported
Alderney stock.

It is well known that the attention of the Trustees has long
been directed to the important and disputed question, how far
and in what way our native breed of cattle may be improved by
the admixture of foreign races, and more particularly, which
of these races, from its valuable qualities, for work, or for the
dairy, and its capacity of thriving in our climate, and under
the degree of care and protection which can be conveniently
given to it by our farmers, would best repay the expense and
trouble necessarily incident on its first introduction. These
reasons, as is well known, led the Society, some years since,
to purchase and to import several fine animals, of the North
Devon and Ayrshire breeds. As soon as the stock was suffi-
ciently multiplied, pairs of one or the other of these breeds
were distributed to all our County Societies ; and those not so
disposed of, were sold on account of this Society. As far as
respects the Ayrshire breed, the result of the experiments is
less satisfactory than was expected.

It would be unsafe to assert, that the introduction of a race

so highly esteemed in Europe, on account of its value for the

purposes of the dairy, has been productive of no advantage to

our stock. It is certainly not improbable that some good

2 MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY.

consequences may have followed, though it may be difficult
to trace and define them. But in many instances, the Ayr-
shire cattle distributed by this Society have failed to give
satisfaction to the County Societies, and the Trustees did not
feel warranted to continue or repeat the experiment of import-
ing and rearing animals of Ihis breed. The experiment was
then undertaken, of importing and rearing animals of the
Jersey breed, (known among us as the Alderney,) and is still in
progress. The animals of this breed, belonging to this Society,
are under the care of the Treasurer, Mr. Motley. They are all
in good health, and bore, without inconvenience, the unusu-
ally rigorous weather of last winter, with no greater degree
of protection than is commonly given to our own cattle in this
neighborhood, a fact which is, at least, presumptive evidence
that they are sufficiently hardy for our climate. Nothing has
occurred to throw any doubt on the character of this race, as a
most excellent stock for the dairy, and the report of Mr. Mot-
ley, hereto subjoined, exhibits in detail their valuable qualities,
as adapted more especially to the moderate sized estates in
the vicinity of our large towns.

Mr. Motlt3y's Report.

Perhaps, at this time, it may be desirable for me to give
some general statement, and my opinion of the Jersey cattle in
my custody, belonging to this Society.

Much has been written in the various agricultural papers of
the day, upon the different breeds of cattle, and every writer
seems to have his own peculiar notions and prejudices in favor
of some particular breed, so that the farmer, after reading all
he can find, is still quite at a loss for a decision.

This Society made a fair trial of the Ayrshire and Devons,
and from what we can learn from the various Societies, in
whose care the animals have been placed, I fear the Ayrshire
will hardly give satisfaction. The North Devons, all agree,
make the best wx.rking oxen ; they are tractable, fast walkers,
of good size, and very fine appearance, and, in some parts
of Worcester County, are more highly prized than any other.
The importation of the Society, of this breed, has undoubt-
edly done much to improve the stock of working oxen. As to

MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY. 8

their qualities for stock, as milcli cows, there seems to be a
difference of opinion. My own is, that they are inferior to
many others. The Jerseys were next tried, and from the time
now elapsed, say eighteen months, since the importation, we
can safely answer the question, which seemed to be the most
important. Can they endure a severe climoie? decidedly in the
affirmative. This we can prove, not only from our own expe-
rience, but from that of other persons, who made importations
of these animals at the same time.

Whatever differences of opinion may prevail respecting the
comparative merits of the different breeds of cattle, the Jerseys,
for the purposes of the dairy, (making buttcir,) I think all will
agree, stand first; the qualityof their milk being so rich, that
five, and sometimes even so small a quantity as four quarts
of it are sufficient to make a pound of butter, and, indeed, in
quantity, they often come up to some of the best milkers, say
fifteen and even twenty quarts per da,y.

It may be well to give some statement of what some of the
cows belonging to this Society have yielded. A heifer, two
years old only, three weeks after dropping her calf, gave milk
enough, in seven days, to make eight and one-half pounds
of superior butter. This, I think, will be acknovv'ledgcd by all
to be a very large quantity for so young an animal, and this
without any grain whatever. The cow Countess, five years
old, has made twelve pounds in one week, say about six
weeks after calving, and seven pounds in the same time in the
month of November, about six months after calving. They
are easily kept, are very gentle and docile, and I must beg
leave to differ entirely with Mr. Parkinson, who says, "they
have a voracious appetite, and will devour almost as mucli
as a short horn." In the Islands of Jersey and Guernsey,
cows are often found, that will make fifteen pound^i of butter
per week, and instances are known, of nearly twenty pounds.
So well satisfied am I of their superiority for this part of the
State, that I have made further importations since that for the
Society, and have now an order for more. The risk and
expense of getting them here being so great, it will probably
be some years before they are common in the country, but 1
fully believe, in time, no farmer will be without one or more
Jersey cows.

4 MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY.

The whole number of the Alderney stock now in my care is
eleven. A daguerreotype has been taken of the original stock,
at the repeated desire of W. S. King, Esq., Editor of the Jour-
nal of Agriculture, from which engravings will be made.

The records also show that a committee was appointed, at
the request of the Agricultural Convention, to attend their
meeting, and by their report, it appeared that the gentlemen
composing that Board were desirous of giving a wide, gratu-
itous circulation to some of the reports which had been made
to them on various subjects of agricultural interest. But
being, as yet, a voluntary association, they were without the
necessary funds to defray the expense. The Trustees at once
authorized the delegates to this Board from their own number,
(Messrs. Gray, Everett and Winthrop,) to advance the sum
of ^300 for the distribution of these reports, and it is hoped
that the measure was not without beneficial results. At all
events, it was an earnest of sincere desire of the Trustees to
encourage, to the extent of the means at their disposal, every
attempt to promote the cause of agricultural information.
The State Board of Agriculture, having since been organized
under the laws of the Commonwealth, will doubtless hereafter
have sufficient resources at their own command, and they have
the best wishes of the Trustees of the State Society for the
successful accomplishment of all their designs.

A report, also, of Dr. Warren, chairman of the committee
on the diseases of animals, was made to the Trustees, in
which he refers to the importance of improving the knowledge
and treatment of the diseases of horses and cattle. After
unsuccessful attempts to establish a course of lectures on
anatomy and diseases of the horse, the committee at length
succeeded in obtaining the aid of a gentleman, (Dr. Slade,) who
had been some years in Europe, and improved such opportu-
nities as presented, to acquaint himself with veterinary sci-
ence. The Trustees have therefore engaged this gentleman to
give as many lectures as may be thought useful, at the rate
of one a week, beginning about the middle of the present
month of January, 1853. It is proposed, if proper arrange-
ments can be made, to open them to all members of the legis-

MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY. 5

lative body, as well as those of the Agricultural Society, and
friends whom they may think proper to invite.

In concluding this report, we cannot forbear a passing allu-
sion to the dispensation of Divine Providence, in removing by
death our late distinguished Vice President, the Hon. Daniel
Webster. This event was duly noticed by the Trustees at
their first meeting after it had taken place, and they deem it
unnecessary to say more of one who, in addition to his other
high claims to distinction, was so generally and so favorably
known as a most intelligent and constant friend and votary
of Agriculture.

JOHN C. GRAY, President.
BENJ. GUILD, Recording Secretary.
January 8th, 1853.

ESSEX SOCIETY.

ESSEX COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

In accordance with the wishes of many of the members of
this society, the experiment was this year made of holding its
annual cattle show and fair during two days. The experi-
ment was completely successful. The exhibition came oft' on
Wednesday and Thursday, the 29th and 30th of September
last, at Lawrence. The first day was appropriated to the
examination, by the committees, of the stock and articles
entered for premiums, and the second to the ploughing match,
the trial of working oxen, the annual meeting and dinner of
the society, and the award of premiums. The show of ani-
mals was continued through both days. The hall of exhibi-
tion was opened to the public on the evening of "Wednesday
and the whole of Thursday. Over seven thousand persons
were admitted to the hall, on payment of the sum of ten cents
each.

The show of fruits, particularly of apples, was unusually
large and fine. Nearly all the new and valuable varieties raised
in New England, were exhibited, and at the same time numer-
ous specimens of our native standard varieties, thus giving
evidence that our cultivators, though disposed to test new va-
rieties of fruit, are not so captivated by novelties, as to give up
the cultivation — and the extensive cultivation, of what has
uniformly proved productive and profitable. In the show of
vegetables, there was some improvement over former years,
but by no means such an improvement as should mark our.
exhibitions, nor such as is worthy of the county. We can-
not but hope that this department will, at the next annual
fair, receive, as it deserves, the liberal and enthusiastic sup-
port of the far-famed market gardeners of Danvers, of Mar-
blehead, of Beverly, and other towns in the ounty. We fear
that, in this respect, we are better known in the Boston market

ESSEX SOCIETY. 7

than at home. We fear that half of the coi:inty knows not
what the other half is doing in the raising of vegetables. We
know, — for we have seen their rich acres — that our market
gardeners can show onions, and squashes, and cabbages, and
the different varieties of esculent roots, in quality and quantity
per acre, second to none in the State; and vve invite them,
earnestly, to take an honest pride in these products of their
skill and industry, and present each a few baskets full at our
next show, for competition and admiration.

The show of neat stock generally, did not quite equal,
either in numbers or quality, the expectation of those who
know what the county is capable of exhibiting. The severe
drought of the past summer, may account in part for the fail-
ure in this respect. The show of swine, however, especially
the Suffolks, was beyond anything we have seen in the county,
for years past.

The ploughing match, boili with oxen and v/ith horses, was
never more spirited in Essex. Forty teams in all, entered the
list of competitors. The work, too, was extremely well per-
formed, and elicited the praise of all Vvho witnessed it. To
encourage a local pride in our towns, in having good working
oxen, a premium was offered for the longest and best team
exhibited from any town. Only one string of working cattle,
however, was exhibited, to compete for this premium, probably
for the reason that the object and terms of the offer were not
fully understood, — many persons supposing that by "town
teams," was meant the teams belonging to a municipal corpo-
ration, or its almshouse establishment, instead of a team
composed of cattle owned by the farmers of the town.

The weather was uncommonly pleasant during the whole
show, and the multitudes that flocked to it, interested, de-
lighted, and, may we not believe, instructed, — afford a renewed
evidence of the profits and pleasures of these annual gather-
ings. Order, sobriety and courtesy marked the day, and with-
out disparagement to other public gatherings, we cannot but
think that none has so strong a hold of the popular favor as
this, the farmers' holiday.

The society was honored by the presence of President
Hitchcock, of Amherst, as a delegate from the State Board of
Agriculture.

8 ESSEX SOCIETY.

The Address was delivered by Henry K. Oliver, Esq., of
Lawrence.

MOSES NEWELL, President.

ALLEN W. DODGE, Secretary.

On Poultry.

The committee on poultry, in making up their report, re-
gret to say, that the exhibition, as a whole, both as to number
and quality of fowls, is not equal to that of last year.

The Committee award the first gratuity, of Five Dollars, to
Messrs. S. & O. Southwick, for the best lot of fowls, consist-
ing in part of Spanish, Dorkings, Shanghais, Guilderlands,
Irish and English Games, Black Bantams and other varieties,
mostly of pure blood. They also exhibited a fine specimen of
China Geese.

These gentlemen seem to have sustained their high reputa-
tion as fowl-fanciers and breeders, both in the variety and great
purity of their different kinds of stock.

David Manock, of Andover, exhibited the most perfect speci-
men of Bolton Greys the committee have ever seen. They
award him the second gratuity, of . . . $1 50

Warner W. Tilton, of Haverhill, exhibited a lot of very

fine African Bantams, the best fowls of the kind on

the field. A gratuity was awarded to him of . 1 00

David Merrill, 2d, of Methuen, presented a coop of

Golden Polartds, which were of good quality, and

the committee award him a gratuity of , . 1 00

To John Smith, of Methuen, a gratuity was awarded,

for his excellent specimen of Cochin Chinas, of . 1 00
Henry K. Oliver, of Lawrence, exhibited a lot of good

fowls, among them a fine pair of Cochin Chinas, for

which, and other good specimens, they award him . 1 00
S. Marshall, of Lawrence, offered a pair of Poland

Chickens, of good quality ; gratuity, . . .50

ESSEX SOCIETY. 9

To T. L. Quimby, of Lawrence, for one pair of Shang-
hai Chickens, . . . . . . $0 50

To Thomas Hogan, of Andover, for a pair of White

Shanghais, very good, . . . .50

To Almanza T. Allen, of Lawrence, for a cross of Guil-

derland and Native, very good fowls, . . 50

To P. P. Holt, of Andover, for a pair of Shanghais, . 50
F. R. Frye, of Methuen, presented a Native Hen, with
her fine family oi forty chickens, all hatched this sea-
son, in three broods, the last only three days from the
es,g. For the prolific qualities of this fowl, the com-
mittee award a gratuity of . . . .50

Hobart Clark, of Andover, exhibited a fine brood of

Bremen Geese ; gratuity, . . . . 1 00

Geo. W. Boynton, of Georgetown, for a pair of Flem-
ish crested Ducks, . . . . .50

Mr. Boynton also exhibited a very superior lot of Fancy
Pigeons, consisting of Pouters, Nuns, Barbs, Ruff's,
Bald Pates, Carriers, English Carriers, Fan Tails,
Trumpeters, Button Heads, Tumblers and Almond
Tumblers. As a whole, it was a beautiful collection,
and all, perhaps with a single exception, of the purest
blood. The Ruff's and English Carriers were particu-
larly beautiful. The committee award him . . 3 00
A. P. Bateman, of Georgetown, also offered a coop of

Fancy Pigeons, several varieties, very fine, . . 1 00

Jacob A. Allen, of Lawrence, presented a specimen of
Fancy Doves, consisting of Tumblers, Buff" Necks
and Fan Tails, very pure and beautiful, . . 1 00

There was also a fine lot of Turtle Doves on the ground,
from J. W. Kimball, of Lawrence, but as they were not regu-
larly entered, the committee were prevented from awarding
any gratuity.

Some of the fowls were not shown to advantage, on account
of their limited accommodations, being in coops better adapted
for transportation than exhibition, and the committee would
recommend to the Trustees to provide proper coops for future
exhibitions, at the expense of the Society.

Fitch Poole, Chairman.

10 ESSEX SOCIETY.

Sheep.

The committee on sheep, (being all present except Mr.
Kent, and his place being supplied by S. H. Greene, of Ips-
wich,) proceeded to examine the only specimens offered.
These were but two, and were owned by Doctor Joseph Kit-
tredge, and Jacob Farnum, both of Andover. The lot of Dr.
Kittredge consisted of four pure blood South Downs, and
three others of a large variety of long-wooUed sheep. They
were all young, and were a part of a flock of twenty.

A noble animal of the Leicester breed, was noticed in the
pen, by one of the committee, after the official examination,
which, of course, the report cannot further notice, especially
as no description was furnished by the owner.

The committee award the first premium, of six dollars, to
Dr. Joseph Kittredge. .

The other lot was owned by Jacob Farnum, and consisted
of twelve in number, a part being lambs, but intended to be
kept for breeding The sixteen lambs were very handsome.

The committee award to Mr. Farnum the second premium,
of five dollars.

In coming to the above result, the committee have not lost
sight of the principle that premiums shall not be awarded as
matter of course. It would have been fully within our pro-
vince, we believe, to have reported that either or both have
been unworthy of a premium, if such had been the fact. Such,
however, is not the fact. The sheep of Dr. Kittredge, and the
lambs, or young sheep, as they may be called, of Mr. Farnum,
are of good quality, and both gentlemen are evidently disposed
still further to improve their own sheep, and afford the facility
for enabling others to improve theirs.

Whatever may be said of sheep raising i'ii the hands of
other people, it cannot be an unprofitable business with Dr.
Kittredge, even in Essex county, where it receives, compara-
tively, so little attention. One of his sheep had her second
lamb of this season with her in the pen, the first having been
sold to the butcher for five dollars. In short, the quality of the
Doctor's flock is such that he was offered $3 75 each for seven-
teen of his lambs ; ^5 00 each for four of them, and $4 00
for ten.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 11

Dr. K. gives his sheep no grain, but the lambs as much meal
as they will eat. His preference is for the largest Leicester
sheep, and the pure South Down buck.

In conclusion, the committee cannot but say they are im-
pressed painfully with the fact that so little attention is paid to
sheep husbandry in our county. They are also painfully struck
with the idea, that of the 5,000 sheep in the county, there
should have been the representatives of two little flocks only.
We hope for better things next year. But few of our farmers,
it is true, can, like Mr. Jewett, of Middlebury, Vermont, ex-
pend $30,000 for French sheep, even if they should shear
twenty pounds of wool apiece, like his ; but every one who
keeps a cow or two, may keep sheep enough for the stocking
yarn of himself and his family. For, according to the idea of
the late lamented Asa T. Newhall, every pasture will carry as
many sheep as it now does cows, in addition to the cows,
without sensible loss to them.

The following letter, received previous to the show, by the
chairman, from Mr. Page, a member of the committee, is
appended to the report, and will be regarded as the most im-
portant part of it.

David Choate, Chairman.

Nathan Pag-e^s Letter.

Danveks Port, 9th Mo. 8th, 1852.

Friend Choate: — Thy letter of the 31st ult. was duly
received. To thy request for information on sheep hus-
bandry I must reply, that I have had no experience in the
business in this county or State. Sixteen years ago I kept
sheep in the State of Vermont. I will offer some remarks on
my method then and there, but cannot promise that they will
contain much important information.

For about fourteen years, while living in Addison county,
in that State, I paid some attention to wool-growing. The
sweet pastures on the highlands near the mountains, are excel-
lent for sheep, and the cold climate is admirably adapted to
the growth of the finest wool.

12 ESSEX SOCIETY.

My flocks ranged from full blood Merino to one-quarter
Merino and three-quarters Saxony, and vice versa. The
greatest number that I owned at any one time was five hun-
dred, not including lambs. In one lot of one hundred acres,
(including thirty-five acres of wood-land,) I pastured three
hundred sheep, together with fifteen head of cattle, and four
horses. In another pasture I kept one hundred and thirty, and
hired the remainder kept by the year, for one dollar each. In
winter, I separated them into five flocks — the lambs in one,
wethers in another, and the ewes in three. I fed principally
with hay, but always used some ruta bagas, English turnips,
and a little corn or oats. Those that I hired kept, were fed
with good hay and potatoes. I gave hay three times a day —
usually dropping it on clean snow a few rods from the sheds,
or barn. If sheep feed from a rack, they wear the wool from
their neck, and fill their fleeces with the hay seed ; if hay is
given under sheds or in the yard, they tread it in the dirt, and
waste it.

Open sheds are sufficient protection for flocks in winter.
Confined air, and crowding in close quarters, are each highly
injurious. In spring, I always had my sheep tagged before
turning to pasture. By this practice, wool is saved, the fleece
is kept clean, and the sheep in a more thriving condition.
After washing thoroughly in running water, I let them run
seven or eight days before shearing, that the wool might be-
come a little softened with oil. Manufacturers like it better
in that condition, and it weighs more. A flock of four or five
hundred half blood Merinos usually averaged three pounds of
clear wool to the clip — sometimes a little more. A flock of
wethers only, average about five pounds each. Prices of wool,
of that quality, ranged from forty to fifty cents ; I have sold
some of the finest Saxony at seventy-five cents per pound.
Wethers I sold at three years of age to drovers — price, two
dollars each. They are seldom fit to sell at three years, and
after three years, they shear less wool. Farmers allow that
seven or eight sheep require an amount of food equal to one
cow. I kept ten cows, and the labor attending their keeping,
was, every year, equal to that required by five hundred sheep.

Cows there, yield richer milk, and a much greater quantity,

ESSEX SOCIETY. ^ 18

than here. Many large dairies are kept in that county, and
with some profit; but the profits of wool-growing were much
greater. I have not time now, to give illustrations of this.
Hay was worth there eight to ten dollars per ton.

In regard to sheep husbandry in this county, I can only give
an opinion ; let it pass for what it is worth.

I do not think that ivool-g-rowing can be generally profitable
here. The price of land is too high for pasturage, the feed is
not often suitable, hay costs too much, and western farmers
can grow wool to an almost unlimited extent, for one-third of
the cost to us, and get it to our markets almost as readily as
we. Sheep-raising-, I think, can be made profitable. The
price of fat lambs in our markets, is always very high, and so
also is the extra quality of mutton. To supply the demand for
these, should be the first aim in sheep husbandry, here, and
the next, to get valuable wool. Sheep of good fattening prop-
erties should be chosen. Probably some of the large kinds
will be most profitable. The iveight of the carcass is an im-
portant item, and a heavy fleece of coarse wool, if of a long,
soft, and free working staple, will give better returns than a
light fine fleece. The extra keeping given to sheep to fit them
for market, largely increases the weight of the wool. A flock
should never be fed with poor hay, early in winter, however
good may be their condition. It is too expensive. They
become poor, cannot bear the cold so well, and if you give
them corn, then, it induces fever, and is of no benefit. With
good hay,^nd ruta bagas, or other roots, sheep will winter in
fine condition ; and that is the only condition profitable. For
pasturage, nearly all of the finer grasses will do. White clover
is best; and the sheep manure on the land, and close feeding,
will bring it in — so also will wood ashes and gypsum. Sheep
bite very close to the turf, hence many infer that they injure
pastures ; but this is not true.

Experience has taught wool growers that no course of cul-
ture will improve a pasture more rapidly than feeding it with
sheep. It may be well to remark that they will effectually
destroy raspberry bushes and briers, if pastured among them
in spring and summer.

In closing, I will express the opinion (not now giving my

14 ESSEX SOCIETY.

reasons in detail,) that where young cattle can be kept in Es-
sex county with a profit of one per cent., and cows, kept for
butter, yield six per cent., sheep will as readily give ten per
cent, profit.

Respectfully thine,

Nathan Page.

Swine.

The entries for premium, this year, have been more numer-
ous than in years past, — a fine exhibition of pigs and porkers
has been made in Old Essex. There was diversity of size, not
to say of form and feature, and the musical sounds from the
various enclosures, were of every variety of intonation, from
the shrill squeal of early infancy, to the grum grunt of mature
hoghood ; and your committee feel that they would do marked
injustice to the swinish judgment of the competitors for the
premiums, should they speak in other than terms of praise of
all the delegates from hogdom, to which they were introduced.

There were seven boars offered for premium, all of which
were very fine animals, to any two of which the committee
would cheerfully have awarded the prizes of the society, had
not others of superior qualities, in their judgment, been offered.

The committee award to Ezra B. Welch, of Haverhill, the
first premium, for the best boar, of . . . $5 00

To Charles Uowell, of Salisbury, the second premium,

of 3 00

E. Chase, of Amesbury ; Josiah Crosby, of Andover ; Ben-
jamin Atkinson, of Amesbury ; and F. Boyden, of Topsfield,
each presented fine specimens of boars, — and your committee
believe that animals of less worth have not unfrequently, herje-
tofore, received the prizes of the society.

William H. Balch, of Topsfield, presented a boar pig of the
Suffolk breed, the most beautiful animal upon the ground, and
the committee regret that they do not have it in their power
to award him a premium.

There were seven breeding sows offered for premiums.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 15

William G. Lake, of Topsfield, presented three female pigs,
for the prizes offered for breeding sows, but your committee,
in consideration of their youth, and inexperience in the per-
formance of matronly duties, could not seriously consider them
competitors for those prizes, and they hope the young females
will not take offence at this report.

William Poor, of Andover, offered a native soav, with a very
fine litter of nine pigs.

The committee award to Josiah Crosby, of Andover, for the
best breeding sow, the first prize, of . . . $5 00

To F. Boyden, of Topsfield, for the second best, a pre-
mium of . . . . . . 3 00

There were four competitors for the prizes offered for the
best litter of pigs, not less than four.

■ James Stevens, of Andover, presented four weaned pigs, five
and a half months old, which were beautiful animals.

Charles Rowell, of Salisbury, offered four weaned pigs,
which, from their beauty and apparent excellence, ought to,
and would, against any common competition, receive the
highest prize.

Henry A. Gould, of Andover, presented four swine, which
caused much trouble to the committee. The question is, at
what period in the life of swine, do pighood and hoghood
commence ? The said swine, as your committee were in-
formed, were born on the 31st of March last, at 4 o'clock in
the afternoon. They presented, in their appearance, marks of
unusual maturity for animals of the age the day of their birth
would seem to indicate. Your committee finally determined
that it would be improper for them to attempt to go behind
the information they had received; and although these swine,
from their size and appearance, sSemed to have arrived at the
age of mature hoghood, the committee award to Henry A.
Gould, for the best litter of weaned pigs not less than four,
from two to six months old, a premium of . . $6 00

To William H. Balch, of Topsfield, for the second best,

a premium of . . . . . . 3 00

There were several fine specimens of swine offered for show,
not for premium, whose owners are entitled to the thanks of
the society for the trouble they have taken to add to the inter-
est of the exhibition.

16 ESSEX SOCIETY.

William Swan, of Lawrence, offered a very fine boar pig.

J. C. Hoadly, of Lawrence, presented a Suffolk pig of fine
form, — none better on exhibition, of his age.

Simeon Bardwell, of Andover, showed to the committee two
pigs out of a litter of nineteen, five months old, of the Suffolk
and Chester breed, which satisfied the committee that his breed
of pigs is not often excelled.

N. W. Harmon, Chairman.

Stallions.

The committee on stallions report that there were four
stallions offered for premium, in the name of the following
persons, viz. : —

One by Seth Kimball, of Bradford, six years old ; one by
Josiah Crosby, of Andover, four years old; two Arabian stal-
lions, by Joseph S. Leavitt, of Salem.

There were also presented to the notice of the committee,
two splendid draught horses, weighing about fifteen hundred
pounds each, belonging to the Atlantic and the Bay State
Cotton Mill Company.

Also, a very fine black draught horse, weighing about thir-
teen hundred pounds, owned by Wilson & Allen, of Lawrence.
Upon deliberation, the committee have agreed to award to
Seth Kimball, of Bradford, for his light chestnut-colored horse,
the first premium, of . . . . $20 00

To Josiah Crosby, of Andover, for his dark chestnut-
colored stallion, the second premium, of . .10 00

For the committee, John Alley, 3d.

Mares.

The committee on breeding mares, report as follows : —
The number entered for premium, was six. Five only, were
found in the pens. One of that number did not come within

ESSEX SOCIETY. 17

the rule of the society, not having a foal with her. The four
to which the committee gave their attention, were entered by
Nathaniel Stevens and Asa A. Abbot, of Andover, Jesse Smith,
of Haverhill, and Horace Ware, of Marblehead. The first three
had the appearance and reputation of having been valuable
animals, but all were considered unsound. The committee
were unanimous in the opinion that no unsound mare should
be recommended as a breeder. There was some difference of
opinion in the minds of the committee, whether the blemishes
in Mr. Smith's mare were such, as to materially injure her as
a breeder. But after a careful examination and interchange of
opinions, they decided that no one was entitled to a premium.
Mr. Ware's mare was young and sound, but the committee
could not discover those decidedly superior qualities in her, to
entitle him to a premium.

The committee have to regret that they did not feel at liberty
to award either of the premiums at their disposal.
Respectfully submitted, for the committee.

Dean Robinson, Chairman.

Colts.

The committee on colts, award the following premiums :—

For the best four years old colt, to Royal A. Merriam,

of Topsfield, first premium, . . . . $6 00

For the best three years old colt, to Isaac Stevens, of

Andover, first premium, . . . . 5 00

For the second best three years old colt, to Josiah Cros-
by, of Andover, second premium, . . . 3 00

For the best two years old colt, to Seth Kimball, of

Bradford, first premium, . . . . 4 00

For the second best two years old colt, to E. C. Brooks,

of Lawrence, second premium, . . . 2 00

For the best yearling-colt, to Nathaniel Stevens, of An-
dover, first premium, . . . . . 3 00

For the second best yearling-colt, to J. & J. E. Foster,

of Boxford, second premium, . . . . 1 00

The exhibition of colts was remarkably good. The num-
3

18 ESSEX SOCIETY.

ber was much larger than on any of the previous years, and
although the committee were unable to award any more pre-
miums, yet there were many other colts which deserve much
credit. And it is gratifying to see that the increased number
and superiority which are exhibited from year to year, indicate
that there is an increasing interest taken in the rearing of this
favorite and valuable animal.

For the committee,

William Osborn.

Working Oxen.

The committee on working oxen report that twenty-seven
pair were entered for premium, but fourteen pair appeared on
the ground, the most of which did their work very well.

There were several pairs present that the committee noticed
as being very fine cattle, which did not receive a premium, as
the committee thought they were not so well trained as others
of less marked appearance. The cattle of Franklin Alley, of
Marblehead, were amongst those that the committee thought
were a credit to the show, and to the owner ; and Joseph
Hathaway's, also of Marblehead, were remarkably fine cattle.
But the twin cattle of William F. Porter, of Bradford, were
the best appearing and drawing cattle on the ground, and
were, in the minds of the committee, awarded the first pre-
mium ; but when they tried their power in backing, the com-
mittee found that they had not been trained to it, which is a
very important point, and therefore did not come up to the re-
quirements of the society.

They award to Frederick Symonds, of Andover, a gra-
tuity of $10 00

To J. Longfellow, of Byfield, the second premium of . ^00
To Gayton P. Osgood, of Andover, the third premium

of 6 00

To William Foster, of Andover, the fourth premium

of 4 00

For the committee,

Horace Ware, Jr.

ESSEX SOCIETY. W

Teams of Working Oxen.

(From any Town in the County.)

The committee on teams of working oxen, report that one
team only, of the description contemplated in the offer of
the premium, was present at the show. This consisted of
thirty-six pair of cattle from Andover. About half of these
were the same that had been seen, in the ploughing and draw-
ing. As a whole, it was a fair team, such as might readily be
gathered in most towns of the county. The committee re-
gretted that other teams had not come in from Lawrence,
Methuen, Haverhill, West Newbury and Danvers, where they
know fine teams could readily be collected, and where, they
have reason to believe, the farmers feel an interest in ad-
vancing the purposes of the society. Without such a feeling,
it is clear that premiums may as well be given for any drove
of cattle that may chance to be on the road.

As this was the first instance of the offer of a premium of
this class, in this county, the committee are disposed to waive
the application of the rule, that requires " all objects for which
premiums are given, to be of decidedly superior quality," and
to reward the exertions of the farmers of Andover, who pre-
sented the team at the show, by the payment for their use of
the first premium, of $20.

For the committee,

Richard P. Waters.
September 29, 1852.

Steers.

The committee have attended to the duty assigned them,
and report that there were five pair of three years old steers en-
tered for premium, (one pair of which were withdrawn, hav-
ing been entered for another premium) and four pair two years
old, and six pair yearlings.
On three years old steers, the committee award to James

Day, of Haverhill, the first premium, . . . $7 00

To David S. Caldwell, of Byfield, the second premium, 6 00

20 ESSEX SOCIETY.

The pair entered by Simeon Bardwell, of Andover, were
very handsome, color a dark red, though considerably smaller
than those to which the premiums were awarded. The
committee would be very much gratified to recommend a
handsome gratuity to Mr. Bardwell, had the rules of the society
permitted it.

On steers two years old, the committee award :
To William Tucker, of Andover, the first premium, . $5 00
To Jacob Farnum, of Andover, the second premium, . 4 00

On yearlings the committee award : .
To Gayton P. Osgood, of Andover, the first premium, 4 00
The second premium on yearlings, the committee had
some difficulty in deciding, as three or four pair were
so near alike, that they would have given each a
premium, had it been in their power to have done
so ; but after much examination, they award to
Joseph Kittredge, of Andover, the second premium, 3 00
James Abbot, of Andover, presented for exhibition only,
several very handsome steer calves.

The committees were very much gratified to witness an in-
creased interest among the farmers of Old Essex, in the raising
of young stock, believing, as they do, that it is for their interest
to do so, rather than to buy from the droves, although perhaps
the first cost may be somewhat more, yet in the end they
think the stock will be so much better as to pay all extra cost
and trouble ; thus following the advice of our first president,
the venerable Timothy Pickering, who remarked, on one oc-
casion, " Raise and improve your own stock, rather than buy
from the droves, even if it should cost twice as much."

Daniel Adams, Chairman.

Fat Cattle.

The committee on fat cattle, report that there were four pair
entered for premium.
They award to Joseph Hathaway, of Marblehead, for

his best ox, the first premium, of . . . $10 00

ESSEX SOCIETY. 21

To Edmund Barker, of Andover, for his best ox, the

second premium of . . . . . $8 00

To Joseph Hathaway, of Marblehead, for his second

best ox, the third premium of . . . 5 00

Enoch Wood, Chairman.

Bulls.

The exhibition of bulls was very creditable to the county,
and more premiums would have been awarded, if the commit-
tee had them at their disposal.

The entries were nine in number, eight for premium, and
one for exhibition only.

The bull for exhibition was from Tewksbury, owned by
Charles E. Abbott and H. C. Merriam, and was a noble
animal.

The bull by David Nevins, the committee thought, would
have been entitled to the second premium, if any one had been
present to make a representation of the animal.

The committee have awarded the first premium to Eustis
Kimball, of Bradford, for his native and Durham bull, three
years old, . . . . . . $7 00

The second premium to Jedediah Farnham, of Ando-
ver, for his bull, 16| months old, . . . 6 00
The third premium to William Carlton, of Andover,

for his bull, half native and half Devon, . . 5 00

For the committee.

R. A. Merriam.

Heifers.

The committee on heifers report that they found for exhi-
bition, six heifers in milk, and nineteen two years old, and
yearlings. Among these the committee noticed two of good
appearance, which were owned by H. C. Merriam, of the
neighboring county of Middlesex. All the others, with one

22 ESSEX SOCIETY.

exception, were entered for premium. Several of them were
quite superior animals ; yet among some of these the commit-
tee noticed some coarse points, indicating the necessity of more
systematic care in breeding.

Your committee recommend that the society's premiums be
awarded as follows : —
For heifers in milk —
The first premium to Josiah Crosby, of Andover, for his two-
year old Devon and Ayrshire, . . . . $7 00

The second premium to Joseph Kittredge, of Andover,
for his two-year old half Devon, sired by this society's
Ayrshire bull, . . . . . . 6 00

No other animal of this class was considered worthy of pre-
mium, except Josiah Crosby's three-year old heifer, for which
your second premium was awarded last year; and she, of
course, is excluded by the rules of the society, from any other
than the first premium.

For two year old heifers —
The first premium to Wm. H. Goodwin, of Marblehead, $5 00
The second, to James Stevens, of Andover, for his na-
tive red heifer, . . . . . . 4 00

The third to Isaac B. Cobb, of Methuen, for his native
black heifer, . . . . . . 3 00

For yearling heifers —
The first premium to Joseph Howe, of Methuen, for his

native heifer, . . . . . . 4 00

The second to J. Jones, of Methuen, for his Durham, . 3 00
The third to the town of Haverhill, for their native

twins, . . . . . . . 2 00

Two heifer calves also were exhibited, one five months old,
of Durham blood, belonging to Thomas G. Dodge, of New-
buryport ; a fine animal, but evidently of forced growth. The
other, owned by John Graves, of Methuen, of native stock, in
commonly good condition, but of quite promising appearance-

John Keely, Chairman.

Josiah Croshi/s Statement.

I offer for premium, my two-year old heifer, of Devon and
Ayrshire blood. She calved in May, and in July her milk was

ESSEX SOCIETY. 23

measured for one week, which averaged fourteen and one-half
quarts per day, and on the following week she made seven and
one-quarter lbs. of butter. She has been kept in a fair pasture,
and been fed with green corn fodder, but has never had any
grain, or any other extra feed.

I also offer for premium, my three-year old heifer, of Devon
and Ayrshire blood. She has had two calves, the last of which
she dropped in May. She has been fed like the other heifer,
and was milked till within fourteen days of calving. Her milk
was measured for one week, which averaged fifteen and one-
half quarts per day, and in six days she made seven lbs. of
butter. Respectfully,

J. Crosby.

North Andover, Sept. 29, 1852.

Joseph Kittredg-e^s Statement.

I offer for premium, as heifers in milk, two two years old
heifers ; one, half Ayrshire, the other, half Devon. The Ayr-
shire calved about the first of May. As I had no expectation
of her calving so early in the season, she was wintered the past
winter on poor fodder, and was quite lean in flesh when she
calved ; since which time she has had nothing but pasture feed,
a mile and a half from home. Her milk was weighed and
measured occasionally in June, and she gave about twelve
quarts a day. She is now, (27th Sept.) giving about seven
quarts a day.

Had I intended earlier to offer her for premium, I would
have made a more definite statement. She is a calf got by
the Ayrshire bull presented to the society by the State Agri-
cultural Society, which has been so very severely criticised at
former exhibitions, and has been considered unworthy of the
attention of the society.

The Devon calved in August, and is now giving eight quarts
of milk a day. They have had no fall feed.

Respectfully,

Joseph Kittredge.
Andover, Sept. 27, 1852.

24 ESSEX SOCIETY.

MiLcn Cows.

The committee on milch cows submit the following re-
port : —

That there were six entries ; five cows only came under the
notice of the committee, and one of those examined had no
statement of her products accompanying the entry. The com-
mittee are of opinion that better cows have been exhibited at
former shows ; still, many of them are considered of good
quality.

The committee would remark, that the statement of the
produce, in some cases, is for a short period ; and in some in-
stances the record of the produce is for former years, and not
for the past season.

The cow entered in the name of Edmund Dorr, of Salem,
judging from the report made of her products, may be of
superior excellence, but after a thorough search among the
stock, Mr. Dorr's cow was not found, nor any one to account
for her.

No statement of the produce of the cow entered in the name
of Isaac B. Cobb, of Methuen, came to the hands of the com-
mittee, and no one appeared, at the time of the examination,
to give any information in relation to her. She was a black
lined-back cow, apparently old, and exhibited signs of being a
sood milker.

The cow presented by James Day, of Haverhill, is reported
to be seven years old, and to average sixteen quarts of milk
per day during the month of June, and that there was made
from her milk, from June 1st to July 10th, a period of forty
days, sixty-three and a half pounds of butter, being a little
more than a pound and a half per day, and requiring about ten
quarts of milk to produce one pound of butter. From July
10th to September 25th, eighty-nine and a half pounds of but-
ter was made from her milk, being about one and one-Six-
teenth pound per day. Up to the 15th of August she was
kept in an old pasture ; since that time she has been fed, morn-
ing and evening, with green corn.

Mrs. Charles H. Bigelow presents a cow, said to be ten years
old. She is reported to have produced 127 lbs. 3 oz. of butter
from May 21st to January 10th following, besides two quarts

ESSEX SOCIETY. 25

of milk daily, reserved for family use. This, of course, must
have been the produce of last year. No intimation is given
in the statement for any portion of the time since January last.
And therefore, in the opinion of the committee, this cow ought
not to be considered a competitor for the premiums offered this
year.

The cow presented by James Poor, of Andover, is reported
eight years old, and to give milk of excellent quality. She is
said to have made in 1849, in ten months, two hundred and
fifty-five pounds of butter. During the months of January,
February, March and April, past, there was made from her
milk eighty-three pounds of butter ; she had, during the winter,
in addition to hay, only four bushels of shorts. We consider
this an extraordinary yield, considering her feed, and also con-
sidering that she dropped her last calf in May last.

She is reported to have made, in the best of the season, ten
to twelve pounds of butter per week, and to have given at that
time, about twenty quarts of milk per day. If that is so, the
committee do not consider her milk of superior quality, as
upon that estimate it requires about fourteen quarts of her
milk to produce a pound of butter.

She is reported now to give from twenty-seven to thirty
pounds of milk daily. The committee regret that the state-
ment of the amount of her produce during the summer, had
not been as accurately kept as it was for the four months of
the last winter and spring.

Josiah Crosby, of Andover, presented a cow three-fourths
Ayrshire blood, and from his statement it appears that, during
one week, she gave sixteen and one-half quarts of milk per
day, and that the week following, her milk made eight and one-
quarter pounds of butter.

We learn from him that this was in the month of June.
She is reported to give milk up to the time of calving. She
is a cow of fine appearance, and probably a valuable animal,
and especially to any one keeping a single cow, as she gives
milk all the year, upon hay and grass feed alone.

After a careful examination of the several animals, and the
statements of their produce, the committee have agreed to
award —

26 ESSEX SOCIETY.

To James Day, of Haverhill, the second premium of, |;9 00
To James Poor, of Andover, the third « " 8 00

To Josiah Crosby, of Andover, the fourth " ^ " 7 00

Moses Newell, Chairman.

James Dai/s Statement.

1 offer for premium, my cow, of native breed, seven years
old. She calved on the 7th of April last, and the calf was
taken from her on the 15th of May. It weighed 115 lbs.

During the month of June, she gave, upon an average, six-
teen quarts of milk per day. She made, from June first, to
July tenth, 63| lbs. of butter, and one week in the time she
made 12| lbs. butter. Since that time she has made 89| lbs.
butter,up to Sept. 25th. She has been kept during the season,
in an old pasture, and has had no other food of any kind, until
the 15th of August ; she was then fed, morning and evening,
with green corn.

James Day.

Haverhill, Sept. 28, 1852.

James Poor^s Statement.

The Fountain Cow, herewith presented, had a calf at three
years old. She has never dried since. She is now eight years
old. We churn every week and fortnight the year round.
Her milk and butter is of a very excellent quality. She will
overrun 300 lbs. of butter, annually. In 1849, we weighed her
butter ten months. It weighed 255 lbs. ; she then had another
calf; she has had a calf every year.

This year, she made, during the month of January, 22 lbs.
6 oz. ; February, 19 lbs. ; March, 18| lbs. ; April, 23i lbs. ; be-
sides averaging a quart of milk a day in the^family. Through
the best of the season, 10 to 11 lbs. per week.

Her keeping is common pasturing; no fresh feed in the fall.
During the winter, she had six bags of shorts.

Sept. 28, I weighed her night's milk. It weighed 16| lbs.,
and measured 6 quarts 1|- pints. Average weight now, 28 to
30 lbs. per day.

James Poor.

North Andover, Sept. 29, 1852.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 27

Josiah Crosby^ s Statement.

I offer for premium, a cow raised upon my farm. She is
nine years old, and is about three-quarters of Ayrshire blood.
She calved in June last, and was milked up to the time of
calving, without any other feed than hay. She has had no
kind of grain for the last year. During the past summer she
has been kept in a fair pasture, and during the severe drought
was fed with corn-stalks. We measured her milk for one
week, which averaged 16| quarts per day, and on the follow-
ing week she made 8^ lbs. of butter.

JosiAH Crosby.

North Andover, Sept. 29, 1852.

Ploughing with Single Teams.

The committee on ploughing with single teams offer the
following report :

There were eleven teams entered ; but nine only appeared
upon the field. The land was somewhat uneven in its sur-
face, and it was more difficult to determine the comparative
merits of the different teams, than it would have been upon a
level surface.

The committee, after making all due allowance for the dif-
ference in the lands, award the first premium, of seven dollars,
to Nathan Tapley, of Dan vers, work done by Doe's plough, of
Concord, N. H., in thirty-six minutes, with twenty furrows.

This plough was somewhat different in its construction,
from any upon the field, and had a rolling cutter attached to
it. The committee, while they would be proud of the world-
wide fame which the ploughs of our own State have acquired,
are glad to see a plough from New Hampshire which they
think is in some respects superior to any manufactured in this
State. If, upon further acquaintance, this plough sustains the
favorable impression it has made to-day, we think that it will
soon find its way into use among us.

The second premium, of six dollars, to John P. Foster, of
Andover, work done by Ruggles, Nourse & Co.'s Eagle plough.
No. 73^, twenty-three furrows, in forty-five minutes.

28 ESSEX SOCIETY.

The third premium of five dollars, to Daniel Carleton, of
Andover, work done by Prouty & Co.'s plough, No. 33.

The fourth premium of four dollars, to Herman Phelps, of
Andover, work done by Martin's plough. No. 3, in forty minutes,
twenty-two furrows.

The fifth premium, of three dollars, to J. Longfellow, of By-
field, work done by Prouty plough. No. 38, forty-six minutes,
twenty-four furrows ; this land was neatly ploughed, except
the last furrow, which was not so well turned as some others,
but as the ploughman was but a boy, and did the rest of the
work so well, the committee could not withhold the premium.

For the committee,

Wm. R. Putnam.

Ploughing with Double Teams.

The committee on ploughing with double teams, (Josiah
Newhall, Joseph E.. Bodwell, Nathaniel Peters, Daniel Adams,
and Richard P. Jaques,) report : That fifteen teams were en-
tered, which appeared on the ground, and competed for the
premiums. The lots of land were drawn as follows, viz. :

No. 1, to M. J. Stevens, Andover.
" 2, to E. S. Parker, Groveland.
" 3, to Franklin Alley, Marblehead.
" 4, to David Nevins, Methuen.
" 5, to John Washburn, Swampscot.
" 6, to Charles M. Davis, Newbury.
" 7, to Furber & Reynolds, Andover.
" 8, to George A. Abbott, Andover.
" 9, to Richard S. Bray, Newbury.
" 10, to Wm. Foster Andover.
" 11, to Joseph Kittredge, Andover.
" 12, to Wm. F. Porter, Bradford.
" 13, to Jacob Farnham, Andover.
« 14, to J. L. Hubbard, Byfield.
" 15, to Moses H. Poor, West Newbury.

The teams commenced simultaneously, and the process of
inverting the sod went on in a quiet and workmanlike man-

ESSEX SOCIETY. 29

ner, and in about forty five minutes, several acres were well
ploughed. The committee were pleased to observe so many-
citizens of the county, willing to exhibit their skill in this
important part of the show.

The plough must ever be considered among the most indis-
pensable instruments of husbandry; and the public are under
obligations to the distinguished plough makers of this State,
and elsewhere, for that degree of advancement towards per-
fection which has been attained. But the skilful use of the
plough has not kept pace with the improvements of the plough
itself. Many fields, smooth and without obstruction, may be
seen, ploughed with furrows deviating from a right line, one
or two feet on either side, with, the land left uneven, and the
furrows of unequal depth. But the society is doing much
towards improvement in this respect, by giving examples of
good ploughing.

The committee, after a careful inspection of the ploughing of
the several lots, with but slight difference of opinion, awarded
the premiums as follows :

The first premium, to John Washburn, of Lynn ;

plough, Ruggles, Nourse, Mason & Co.'s, . . $8 00

Second premium, to Moses H. Poor, of West New-
bury ; plough, Martin's, . . . . 7 00

Third premium, to Richard S. Bray, of Newbury ;

plough, Prouty & Co.'s, . . . . 6 00

Fourth premium, to William Foster, of Andover ;

plough. Doe's, of Concord, . . . . 5 00

Fifth premium, to David Nevins, of Methuen, . 4 00

There were three double ploughs on the field, which attracted
attention, but the committee did not feel it to be their duty
to take them into consideration, in awarding the premiums.
These ploughs were looked upon with favor by the committee,
but having no practical experience with such, they forbear to
express an opinion ; but hope that the society wiU take mea-
sures to test their utility.

The committee would suggest to the trustees, the propriety
of giving a gratuity of five dollars to each of the competitors
with these ploughs, all of whom did their work well, viz. : to

30 ESSEX SOCIETY.

William F. Porter, of Bradford, J. L. Hubbard, of Byfield, and
one other competitor, whose name is not recollected by the
committee.

For the committee,

JosiAH Newhall.

Ploughing with Horse Teams.

The special committee of seven, appointed to award the
premiums offered by Charles A. Stetson, Esq., of New York,
for the encouragement of the use of horse teams, in ploughing,
report :

That there were thirteen competitors for these premiums ;
all of which were promptly on the ground, ready to move at
the time appointed. The ground was a gi-avelly soil, with a
fair sod, and occasional fast rocks, that required careful watch-
ing of the plough. One sixth of an acre, of like form, was
assigned to each competitor, numbered from one to thirteen.
Some of the lands were harder and more rocky than others.
The directions were, to cut the furrows not less than seven
inches deep, and of a width to be most conveniently turned
fiat. All started at the same time, and completed their work
in from forty to fifty minutes ; all having done it within rea-
sonable time, so that the time of performance was not regarded
in the award of premiums.

One of the teams was accompanied by a driver, and one of
them did not plough so deep as required ; these circumstances
operated against their performances. Most of the teams were
well disciplined, and, with the ploughmen, well prepared for
the work. The struggle was fairly contested, and the work
as thoroughly done, as the committee have ever witnessed.
Among so many who did well, it was no easy task, to say
which did best. Most of the committee were experienced
in the management of teams of horses, and were practical
ploughmen. Drivers were not forbidden to be used, still the
committee thought, with teams properly trained, there was no
necessity for their use. They noticed some of the horses were
so thoroughly trained, that they would halt instantly at the

ESSEX SOCIETY. 31

voice of the ploughmen ; so when the plough struck a rock,
or wavered from the furrow, it could be instantly reinstated in
its proper place. With powerful horses thus trained, and well
skilled ploughmen, the best of work can be done in the shortest
time.

The " straight line side-hill plough," No. 83, made by Rug-
gles & Co., used by Moses Pettingill, of Topsfield, and held
by his son, David Pettingill, all things considered, completed
the work in the most satisfactory manner, and richly merited
the first premium, of ^25.

The work done by Ruggles & Co.'s plough. No. 73|, entered
by John Washburn, of Swampscot, merited the second premi-
um, of |15.

The work done by Doe's plough, of Concord, with Mr.
Slocum's team, found much favor with the committee. Two
other teams, that used No. 73, of Ruggles & Co., did their
work in a manner worthy of commendation. Had the com-
mittee been so authorized, they would have cheerfully awarded
the competitors twice as much, for they never saw premiums
better earned.

The committee regret that any combination of circumstances
should have prevented the generous donor from being present,
to witness the result of the experiments that he had elicited.
This is the second time the society have been under special
obligation to Mr. Stetson, for his generosity in advancing the
interest of their show. It only remains for a few more men
of public spirit, like Mr. Fay and Mr. Stetson, to come forward
with just discrimination, and liberal hand, and our farmers
would show that they can do work that shall be worthy of
all admiration.

For the committee,

J. W. Proctor, Chairman.

Dairy.

The committee on the dairy, report that four specimens of
June, and nine of September butter, were submitted to their
examination, which came within the society's rules for pre-
mium. No specimens of June butter, in the estimation of
the committee, merited the highest premium ; the second, of

32 ESSEX SOCIETY.

eight dollars, we awarded to Jonathan Berry, of Middleton,
and the third, of six dollars, to Sarah J. Stevens, of Andover.

The September butter was much superior to that of June,
and the committee, after a careful examination, recommend
the first premium, of ten dollars, be given to Jonathan Berry,
of Middleton ; the second, of eight dollars, to Caroline J.
Ordway, of West Newbury ; the third, of six dollars, to
Nathaniel Felton, of Danvers.

So nearly equal were some of these specimens, that the
committee carefully compared them before deciding their rela-
tive merits.

A specimen of four pounds of June butter, the product of
one cow for two days, in June of 1850, was before the com-
mittee ; which was of superior quality, and sweet and fresh ;
which, from the experiment in preservation, we think, entitles
the maker, Mrs. Fairfield White, of Lawrence, to the notice
of the society ; and we recommend a gratuity of five dollars
be given to her.

There were not any specimens of cheese offered.

JosiAH Little, Chairman.

Jonathan Berry's Statement.

I present for inspection, one pot of June butter, marked No.
1, containing twenty-three pounds, being a sample of two
hundred and thirty-six pounds, the product of seven cows and
one heifer, from the first of June, till the ninth of July. Also
seventeen pounds of September butter, marked No. 2, a speci-
men of six hundred and seventy-two pounds, made from the
20th of May to the 20th of September, from the same cows.
We also made from May 20th to June 20th, one hundred and
eighty-eight pounds of four cheese ; and from May 20th to
July 15th, sold one quart of cream per week ; also sold one
quart of milk per day during the season, besides what has
been used in the family.

Process of Making. — The milk is strained into tin pans,
and set in a cellar prepared for that purpose. After remaining
from thirty to forty-eight hours, the cream is taken off and kept
in a vault until it is churned ; we churn once a week ; the but-
termilk is worked out by hand, and the butter is salted with
about one ounce of salt to a pound.

Middleton, Sept. 28, 1852.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 33

Mrs. Sarah J. Stevens's Statement.

I have one cow only, and I present a jar of butter, No. 10,
made from her milk. We have used milk for our family,
about a quart a day, besides making bread twice a week with
milk. We have eaten what butter we wanted, besides selling
over twelve dollars' worth at from twenty to twenty-five cents
a pound.

The cow has had no feed except what she has obtained her-
self on the road, and she has had no particular care, and the
latter part of the season, we were very irregular about milking.
She averages about twenty pounds of milk a day.

Andover, Sept. 28, 1852. -

Caroline J. Ordwaijs Statement.

I present for inspection one box of June butter, marked No.
7, containing eighteen pounds, a specimen of seventy-five
pounds, made from the 1st of June to the 9th of July, product
of two cows. Also two boxes of September butter, marked
No. 8, containing ten pounds each, a specimen of sixty pounds,
made from the 13th of August, to the 24th of the present
month. From the 9th of July, until the 13th of August, they
gave one hundred and seventy-five gallons of milk, appropri-
ated to cheese, with other milk.

The feed of the cows has been common pasture only, until
the 15th of August ; since then they have been fed once a day
with green corn fodder.

Process of Making. — The milk is strained into tin pans,
after standing ten minutes in the pails, and placed in a cool
cellar; skimmed when slightly changed, into stone jars, the
whole cream being stirred as any is added. About twenty-
four hours before it is churned, it is set in cold water to cool.
Churn once a week. As soon as the butter is formed, it is
taken out and salted, with ground rock salt, one ounce and a
quarter to a pound. In twenty-four hours, it is placed on a
pie board and the buttermilk rolled out ; it is then weighed
into pound lumps, shaped with clappers, and is fit for market.

Method of Preserving. — A layer of salt is placed in the
bottom of an oaken firkin, and a linen cloth laid over it ; the
5

ESSEX SOCIETY.

butter is then put in and several thicknesses of linen cloth laid
over it, covered with salt, and placed in a cool cellar.
West Newbury, Sept. 28, 1852.

Nathaniel Felton's Statement.

I present for examination, twenty pounds of September but-
ter, marked No. 12, being a sample of seven hundred and
seventy-nine pounds, made from the milk of seven cows, from
the 20th of May, to the 15th of July ; after that, of eight cows
till the 20th of September, having used milk in the family for
eight persons. The cows had common pasture till the 1st of
August, and were then fed with corn fodder till the present
time.

Process of Making. — The milk is strained into tin pans,
and placed in a cool cellar, where it stands from thirty-six to
forty-eight hours, when the cream is taken off and put into tin
pails and stirred daily. We churn once a week. During the
warmest weather, the cream is hung in the well about twelve
hours before churning. After the butter comes, the first thing
is to work out the buttermilk, which is done with the hands,
without the application of any water, believing it to be of no
use. We use about an ounce of the best salt to the pound,
varying in some measure according to the state of the butter,
to be determined by the taste of the person working it. After
standing about an hour, it is worked over the second time and
then weighed, each pound separately.

WEEKLY ACCOUNT OF THE BUTTER MADE.

May 27, .

. 3H

Ibs.

August

. 42

lbs

June 3, .

. 45

12,

. 44

» 10, .

. 46

19,

. 44

« 17, .

. 42

26, «

. 45

" 24, .

.51^

Sept.

. 40

July 1, .

. 511

((

. 41

" 8, .

. 46

16,

. 39

« 15, .

. 45

23,

. 40

« 22, .

. 441-

((

27, .

. 20

« 29, .

. . 431

((

7991

Danvers, Sept. 28, 1852.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 85

Mrs. Fairfield White's Statement.

This butter, No. 4, was made two years ago last June. The
cream from which it was made, was gathered in two days,
from the milk of one cow. It has been kept in its present
state of preservation by a covering of linen cloth, dipped in
lime water, and an additional thickness of flannel.

Lawrence, Sept. 28, 1852.

Agricultural Implements.

The committee on agricultural implements have attended
to their duties and ask leave to report :

That two ploughs, with straight cutters, were presented for
exhibition by Alfred Doe, of Concord N. H. The pattern,
finish, strength, and general appearance of these ploughs com-
pared well with other ploughs of this description. One, No.
8, was of very superior workmanship and finish. It is the
same plough which attracted so much attention at the late
World's Fair in London.

Three breaking up, circular cutter ploughs, were presented
by the same gentleman, which your committee think are
superior ploughs for lands free from rocks, and would prove
uncommonly serviceable on swamp or meadow lands, where
there are small roots which obstruct the common straight
cutters.

The Michigan plough, exhibited by Prouty and Mears, of
Boston, is a good specimen of this kind of plough. And it is
well spoken of by most farmers that have used it. It is
suggested by some of our best agriculturists, that an improve-
ment can be made by widening the small, or top plough, to a
corresponding width of the under, or subsoil plough, so as to
make the after plough turn over the subsoil, and entirely cover
up the turf.

A strong, durable hay wagon, with rigging attached, was
exhibited by Cyrus K. Ordway, of West Newbury.

Daniel Stiles, of Middleton exhibited his hay and corn
stalk cutter. The committee were pleased with its operation,

36 ESSEX SOCIETY.

especially in cutting corn stalks, and some of your committee
intend making trial of this cutter the coming winter, on their
own farms.

For the committee,

Richard P. Waters.

Root Crops.

The committee report, that there were statements sent them
of two crops of onions, one crop of carrots, and one of pota-
toes ; and they have awarded the premiums as follows :

To Andrew Nichols, of Danvers, for his crop of onions,

raised in Middleton, the premium of . . . ^6 00

To John L. Hubbard, of Byfield, for his crop of onions,

a gratuity of . . . . . . 4 00

To R. P. Waters, of Beverly, for his carrots, the pre-
mium of . . . . . . 6 00

To Charles French, of Andover, for his potatoes, the
premium, of . . . . . . 6 00

The statements were not received until November 16th, at
which time all the crops were harvested, except the carrot crop
of Mr. Waters, so that your committee did not have the
pleasure of viewing them in the field ; but as the statements
are so particular and so well vouched, they had no misgivings
about making the awards.

The statement of Mr. French, — concise, but to the point, —
your committee commend to the serious attention of all read-
ers, living in the neighborhood of worthless land. He has not
only received a fair income from his ground the first year, but
his land is now in fine order for any other crop he may wish
to put upon it.

The committee have, perhaps, rather exceeded their authority
in awarding a gratuity to Mr. Hubbard, but they thought his
experiment a very satisfactory one, and such an one as they
did not consider advisable to let pass without "material aid"
from the society.

For the committee,

J. KiTT HEDGE.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 37

Andreio NidioWs Statement.

The land on which this experiment was made, is nearly-
level, one corner being a little elevated, and sloping towards
the centre of the lot. The subsoil is sand or loose gravel,
the soil a loamy mould, which, as analyzed by Dr. Dana, in
1840, contains soluble geine, 4.56 per cent., insoluble geine,
3.50 ; sulphates, 1.30 ; phosphates, .84 ; granite sand, 89.80.
(See Society's Transactions, 1840.) On the larger portion of
it, onions had been cultivated for one or more years. On a
small portion of it cabbages grew last year. About the mid-
dle of April the ground was ploughed seven inches deep, and
manured with a compost, formed by mixing twelve cart-loads
of barn manure with fourteen of muck, of the same kind as
that analyzed by Dr. Dana, (see Transactions, 1840,) and
thoroughly harrowed, raked smooth, and one and three-fourths
pound of seed sown thereon. They were weeded four times ;
twenty-four days labor.

Soon after the first weeding, one bushel of dry, wood ashes
was sown broadcast over the whole piece. After the second
weeding, one bushel of plaster of Paris was strewn over it in
the same manner. After the third weeding, the western end
of the piece, on a part of which cabbages grew last year, was
less promising as to a crop, then elsewhere. One peck of
guano, mixed with one peck of plaster of Paris, was scattered
over this part of the field, about one-fomih of the whole.
This apparently had the desired effect ; gave the crop a luxu-
riant appearance, and at harvest the largest product.

Andrew Nichols.
Danvers, Nov. 6, 1852.

This certifies, that under my own supervision. Dr. Andrew
Nichols, on his farm, in Middleton, experimenting on one-half
acre of land, raised, on seventy square rods, from seed, three
hundred and fifty-five bushels of onions; that on the remain-
ing ten square rods, small onions, and a few seed onions were
set, and a good crop of what are called rare-ripes, and seed,
obtained ; but as there were many of them pulled early for the
market, and sold, week after week, in small bunches, it is now
impossible for me to say how many bushels, or the equivalent

38 ESSEX SOCIETY.

thereto, were produced on these ten rods, but I should estimate
the value of this portion of the crop, equal to the average of

the whole piece.

Luke Putnam.
Danvers, Nov. 6, 1852.

I certify that I measured the ground cultivated as above
stated, and found it to contain one-half acre, and no more.

J. W. Proctor, Purveyor.
November 9, 1852.

John L. Hubbard^s Statement.

I herewith transmit a statement of the management of the
crop of onions, entered by me for premium. The land is a
sandy loam, rather light on one side of the piece to a rather
deep black soil on the other side, with a southern exposure,
containing eighty six rods. It has been used for an onion bed
several years. The manure was partly barnyard and partly
slaughter-house manure, was not composted. One side of
the lot was manured entirely with the slaughter-house manure,
and on the other side the barnyard manure was thought to be
rather too scattering, and some small heaps of the slaughter
manure were put in to fill up. The manure was ploughed in,
in the spring. The ground was not harrowed, but it was
brushed over, and then raked by hand. The seed was then
sown. One pound of the common yellow onion seed was
sown first on the lightest part of the land, where the barnyard
manure was put ; then one pound of Danvers seed entirely on
the slaughter manure, and then the lot was finished with a
mixed seed of Danvers and yellow onion seed.

The seed was sown the 5th of May. The product was
127 barrels of Danvers, 125 of the common, and 47 of the
mixed seed. Perhaps I ought to say that no account was
made of the unripe and rotten onions, of which there were
several bushels. The product was rather in favor of the mixed
seed, but I attribute this to the land, as it was moister and
was not molested at all with the worms. The Danvers had
the next best chance, and they were ripe some days sooner
than the others. There were also taken, onions for the use of
two families during the summer, and 30 bunches were sold

ESSEX SOCIETY.

before harvesting. In regard to measure, I say that they were
measured in a basket, and that of 100 baskets, one basket was
taken out, and the rest were taken to market and weighed,
making 102 bushels, and 18 pounds, Sl^ pounds being a
bushel. If the remainder, which were barrelled, overrun at
the same rate, there would have been over 340 bushels.

EXPENSE OF CROP.

Four cords manure, .
Spreading manure and ploughing.
Fitting the land and sowing,
"Weeding five times, .
Harvesting, topping, &c..
Hauling to market.
Interest on land.

Crop sold for .

From which deduct cost of production.

Net profit, .

Byfield, Nov. 12, 1852.

$16 00

3 00

1 50

20 00

12 00

8 50

3 00

$64 00

. 144 25
64 00

. $80 25
John L. Hubbard.

Newbury, Nov. 12, 1852. — This is to certify that we, the
subscribers, have measured a lot of onions for Mr. Hubbard,
of three hundred and thirty bushels.

Adams Phalen.
John S. Hill.

Richard P. Waters's Statement.

The crop of carrots which I entered for examination, have
now been harvested, and the result is as follows : From one
hundred square polls of land I have taken 555 baskets of
orange carrots, weighing, on an average, ^Q lbs. per basket,
amounting to thirty one thousand and eighty pounds of car-
rots, or at the rate of twenty-five tons per acre.

The mode of cultivation was as follows. "We manured the
land with eighteen ox-cart loads of barnyard manure, two-
thirds of which was swamp muck, and one-third pure stable
manure composted. This manure was spread and the land

40 ESSEX SOCIETY.

ploughed twelve inches deep about the 20th of May. It was
then raked with common hand rakes and the seed sown on
the 28th of May, the rows eighteen inches apart — with one
pound of orange carrot seed. The piece was hoed once and
weeded by hand twice. The carrots were harvested on the
first week of November, and the crop resulted as above stated.
Perhaps it ought to be stated that I took a carrot crop from
the same piece of land last year, and for which I received a
premium. I shall continue the same crop on the same land
another year. The soil is composed of dark and yellow loam,
and was fenced off from an old pasture three years since.

EXPENSES OF CULTIVATION.

Interest on land.

Six cords compost,

Spreading manure, ploughing, harrowing, raking, and

sowing seed.
Seed, .....
Hoeing, weeding, and harvesting.

VALUE OF CARROTS.

Fifteen and a half tons, at $10,
Tops, as fodder for cows.

Net profit, ...... $105 50

In view of this result, I would ask what crop makes better
returns than carrots well attended to ?

Richard P. Waters.
Cherry Hill Farm, Beverly, Nov., 1852.

Charles Frenches State?nent.

I offer one-half of an acre of land, in potatoes, for premiurn.
The land a bog, in a wild state, at commencement, and yield-
ing nothing.

Cost of digging up, with spade, . . . $6 00

« " planting, . . . . . 13 00

« « hoeing, . . . . 11 00

$5 00

36 00

dng, and

, ,

6 00

1 00

•

26 00

$74 50

$155 00

25 00

180 00

ESSEX SOCIETY. ' 41

Cost of seed, six bushels of black, and chenango po-
tatoes, (four bushels black, two of chenangoes,) . ^4 67

Cost of manure, (stable manure and sand,) . . 15 00

" " digging and housing potatoes, . . 10 00

$59 67
The product was, of black potatoes, 117 bushels.

" , " chenangoes, 24 "

The chenangoes were dug early, before fully grown or ma-
tured.

Charles French.
Andover, Oct. 1852.

Grain Crops.

The committee on grain crops, report, that there was one
entry of wheat, only, and that by Christopher How, of Me-
thuen, of forty bushels, raised on one acre and eighty-three
rods of land, being twenty-six and a half bushels to the acre ;
and they award him the premium of $6.

There were two entries of rye, one by Adino Page, of Dan-
vers, of one hundred and sixty-eight bushels, raised on four
and a half acres of land, weighing fifty-eight pounds to the
bushel, being thirty-seven and one-third bushels, or twenty-one
hundred and one-third pounds to the acre ; and they award
him the premium of $6.

The other entry of rye, was by James Brown, Jr., of Dan-
vers, of fifty-six bushels, raised on one and three-fourths acres
of land, weighing sixty-three pounds to the bushel, being
thirty-two bushels, or twenty hundred and sixteen pounds to
the acre ; and had the committee another premium at their
disposal, they would cheerfully have given it to Mr. Brown,
considering his extra crop, compared with the condition and
value of his land.

There were also two entries of Indian corn ; one by Win-
gate Merrill of Danvers, of eighty-seven bushels, raised on one
hundred and sixty-two rods of land, being about eighty-six
bushels to the acre ; and they award him the premium of $6.

The other entry of corn, was by Adino Page, of Danvers,
of one hundred and forty-three bushels, raised on two acres
6

42 ESSEX SOCIETY.

and twenty-five rods of land, being sixty-six and three-tenths
bushels to the acre ; a very good crop, but a less quantity than
would entitle him to the society's premium, if more than one
were offered.

There was also a crop of barley entered by Isaac Smith, of
Beverly, of sixty bushels, raised on one acre and forty-eight
and a half rods of land, being over forty-six bushels to the acre.
Mr. Smith's statement not coming up to the requirements of
the society, to entitle him to a premium, the committee, con-
sidering his extra crop, recommend that a gratuity of $4 be
given him. His crop of oats, which he raised on only one
hundred and seven rods of land, although an extra crop, being
about sixty bushels to the acre, does not entitle him to a pre-
mium, as no premiums are offered for grain crops raised on
any less quantity of land than one acre.

For the committee,

Andrew Dodge.

Christopher Hoiv^s Statement.

I offer for premium, forty bushels of wheat, obtained from
one acre and eighty-three rods of land. It is the white flint
winter wheat. The land on which it was raised, is a gravelly
loam, and has been mowed four years. It was turned over in
September, 1851, and thirty loads to the acre of compost ma-
nure applied, about thirty-five bushels to the load. It was
sown in September, harrowed and rolled.

Christopher How.

Methuen, Nov. 8, 1852.

This certifies that I surveyed a piece of land for Christopher
How, on which he raised wheat the present year, and it con-
tained one acre and eighty-three rods.

Joseph S. How, Surveyor.

Methuen, Nov. 6, 1852.

Adino Page'*s Statement.

I offer for premium a crop of winter rye, grown on the town
farm in Danvers. The field on which the rye grew, contains
four and one-half acres. The soil is light and gravelly. On

ESSEX SOCIETY. 43

two acres of this land, rye was grown last year. The other
was broke up in the spring of 1850, manured in the hill, and
planted with corn, yielding a good crop. In the spring of 1851
it was manured with three and one-half cords of hog-yard
manure to the acre, ploughed deep, and planted with potatoes.
After this crop was taken off, it was ploughed deep, and har-
rowed well. On the 22d of September, it was sown with
about three pecks of rye to the acre, covered with the harrow,
and rolled. On the 10th and 12th of July last, it was cut with
sickles and cradles, dried in the field, and gathered into the
barn in good condition, and immediately threshed out. The
yield was one hundred and sixty-eight bushels, weighing fifty-
eight pounds to the bushel. There was about five tons of
straw, which is very nice. The collar makers and onion deal-
ers are buying it for their uses, at sixty and seventy cents per
hundred. The grain is worth ninety cents per bushel.

Adino Page.
Danvers, Sept. 15, 1852.

James Broivn, Jr.^s, Statement.

I present for your notice, a statement of the culture of a
field of winter rye, in Danvers, in the southerly part of the
town, adjoining Boston road. The land is on a plain, light
and loamy soil. In 1850 it yielded potatoes ; in 3,851 one-half
corn, the other potatoes. About four cords of manure were
then applied to the acre. No manure was applied, the present
season. It was ploughed In the autumn, about seven inches
deep, with one pair of cattle. Two and one-eighth bushels of
seed were sown on the 1st of October, upon the lot which
contains one and three-fourths acre. The produce was fifty-
six bushels, weighing, on an average, one hundred and fifty-six
pounds to the bag of two bushels, as plump and fair as any
grain I have ever seen. No extra effort was made in the cul-
ture of the grain, but as the field was uncommonly handsome,
I was induced to give this statement. Rye, in my opinion, is
one of the easiest and most valuable crops to cultivate on land
of this description.

James Brown, Jr.

Danvers, Sept. 25, 1852.

44 ESSEX SOCIETY.

Wing-ate MerrilVs Statement.
I offer for premium a crop of Indian corn, grown on one
hundred and sixty-two rods of land, the soil good. It was
broken up in the fall of 1850. In the spring of 1851 it was
dunged in the hill, and planted with corn, and yielded about
seventy bushels. In November last, I put on about four and
a half cords of barn manure, and ploughed it in. In the spring
it was well harrowed, and planted the 25th and 26th of May,
in hills, about three and one-half feet apart. The corn was
well cultivated. Weeds were not permitted to grow. It was
gathered in October last, and yielded one hundred and seventy-
four bushels of sound corn. I estimated the product to be
eighty-seven bushels.

Danvers, Nov. 11, 1852.

WiNGATE Merrill.

Adino Pace's Statement.

I offer for premium a crop of Indian corn, grown on two
acres and twenty-five rods. The soil is shallow and gravelly.
In the summer of 1851 we obtained about one ton of poor
hay from this land. The 1st of October following, we put on
nine cords of compost manure from our hog-yard, and ploughed
it in, seven inches deep. In the spring it was cross ploughed,
and well pulverized with the harrow. It was planted the 18th
of May, in drills, the stalks standing ten inches apart, the rows
four feet apart, and running north and south — the better to
admit the rays of the sun. The corn was well cultivated —
weeds were not permitted in the field. It was gathered in
October last, and yielded two hundred and eighty-six bushels
of ears of corn. I estimate the produce to have been one hun-
dred and forty -three bushels of corn.

^ Adino Page.

Danvers, Nov. 6, 1852.

Isaac Smithes Statement.

I offer for your consideration and for premium, a crop of
barley, of sixty bushels, which I raised on one acre forty-eight
and a half rods of land, from two and a half bushels of seed.
The land was last year to cabbages, and in a common, ordi-
nary state, and of the value of about fifty dollars per acre.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 45

I also offer a crop of oats for your consideration, of forty
bushels, raised on one hundred and seven rods of land, from
two bushels of seed ; the land in the same condition and of
the same value, as that on which the barley grew.

Isaac Smith.
Beverly, Nov. 1, 1852.

Fruits.

The committee on fruits, report : That in looking back upon
the season, it would be difficult to say how the weather could
have been made better, for the general productions of the
earth. There were but few cases of drought, which caused
the grumblers — they who are never suited — to complain.

The season, as a whole, particularly for fruits, has never
been surpassed. The display, and the interest manifested in
this department of useful culture, continue to increase ; the
change, in substituting two days for the exhibition, worked
admirably. Heretofore, everything was performed in an in-
convenient, hurried, and unsatisfactory manner. The show
was crowded into one day; the committees were compelled to
make up their awards after partial examination, and many
were often dissatisfied with their results. Now there is ample
time for everything, and the merits of every contributor can
be fully discussed, and correctly decided.

The exhibition of fruits, with the exception of peaches, sur-
passed that of any previous season. There were nine hundred
and seventy-nine dishes and baskets, from eighty-five contribu-
tors.

The committee would occupy too much space in their report,
were they to enumerate every variety of fruit or contributor ;
they will, therefore, confine themselves to a list of those to
whom gratuities were awarded.

To Charles F. Putnam, of Salem, for the largest collec-
tion of fruits, a gratuity of . . . $5 00
« Robert Manning, of Salem, . . . . 3 00
« Moses Pettingel, of Topsfield, . . . 3 00

ESSEX SOCIETY.

To A. D. Rogers, of Salem, for the best pears, assorted,
" Andrew Lackey, of Marblehead,
" Ephraim Emmerton, of Salem,
" Benjamin Porter, of Danvers,
" E. S. Parker, of Groveland, .
« G. W. Gage, of Methuen, .
" Moody Ordway, of West Newbury,
" J. B. Barker, of Methuen, for the finest collection of

apples,
" E. G. Jackman, of Methuen,
" William Bacheldor, of Andover, for his renovated

St. Michael pears,
" William Poor, of Andover, .
" Josiah Newhall, of Lynnfield,
" William G. Lake, of Topsfield, for a large collection

of apples and pears,
« J. & E. Lake, of Topsfield, .
" J. C. Hoadly, of Lawrence, .
" E. Clark, Jr., of Groveland, superior Hubbardston

Nonesuch apples, ....
" Pamela Wood, of Andover, .
" Adam Nesmith, of Beverly, .
" Rufus Slocumb, of Haverhill,
« D. Merrill, 2d, of Methuen, .
" Jonas Holt, of Andover,
« J. R. Bodwell, of Methuen, .
" Christopher How, of Methuen,
" J. M. Richards, of Lawrence, for fine peaches,
« Elijah Hall, of Methuen,
" S. C. Crosby, of Methuen, .
" Joseph Russell, of Middleton, fine peaches,
" Geo. D. Lund, of Lawrence, best ripened Isabella

grapes, . . . . ^ .

" G. Perkins, of Amesbury, best Flemish Beauty pears
" Joel Bowker, of Salem, ...

" J. Arrington, of Salem, ...

" Charles Ingalls, of Methuen,
" Daniel Nevins, of Methuen, for Angouleme pears,
" S. A. Furbush, of Lawrence, finest green sweet

apples, ......

$3 00

50
50
50
00
00
00

50
00

00
00
00

2 50

2 00

50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
75
50
50
50

50
50
50
50
50
50

ESSEX SOCIETY. 47

To Joshua Hale, of Newburyport, for the St. Lawrence

apple, . . . . . . $0 75

" A. Burnham, of Gloucester, best dish Bartlett pears, 50

The best Seedling Isabella grape, was from Alvin Moor, of
Tewksbury. This being out of the limits of the county, your
committee could only return their thanks to Mr. Moor for his
contribution, and as it was the best Seedling Isabella shown,
we have named the fruit Moor's Isabella. To the above gen-
tleman, and to W. H. Hill, of Plaistow, who sent us fruit, our
thanks are due. Most of the specimens of fruit raised in and
around Lawrence, were fine ; the soil being generally of a
light sandy loam, is peculiarly fitted for the cultivation of the
peach and gi'ape, the high flavor of the former equalling those
of New Jersey, and the earlier ripening of the Isabella grape
indicates a warm soil, and one well adapted for these fruits.

Mr. Barker, of Methuen, who obtained the highest gratuity
for apples, raised them on soil of the above description, and
we were struck with their smooth and bright appearance, being
free from blight or mildew.

The abundant supply of apples, the past season, throughout
the country, particularly of the early varieties, and the diffi-
culty of finding a ready market, has demonstrated that the
caution thrown out some years since in the " reports" was not
altogether premature. We then remarked that apples, ripen-
ing at the time of our finest pears and peaches, would have
but a very limited sale ; hence the cultivation of winter apples
was recommended as the most remunerative. At a recent
meeting of a neighboring society, the fruit committee recom-
mended to farmers the general cultivation of the Gravenstein.
This fine German apple would command its proper value, did
it not ripen with the Bartlett, Harvard, Andrew^s, and other of
our choicest pears and peaches. With the exception of early
fall sweeting apples, which are wanted for cooking, the sale of
dessert apples, ripening thus early in the fall, will be small, par-
ticularly in seasons when the pear or peach is abundant.

In the cultivation of fruit for sales, it is not good policy to
run to one or two varieties, however excellent ; for the local
markets may be overstocked. We have a case in point, in the
general cultivation of the Baldwin apple. The Danvers Win-

48 ESSEX SOCIETY.

ter Sweet, Seaver's Sweeting, and the Aunt Hannah, now
command nearly double the price of the above excellent sort.
We should cultivate apples which ripen in succession through-
out the season ; and should avoid raising many of those that
are in season at the time of our fine pears and peaches. We
believe that apples are to become a more staple article for
exportation, than they ever yet have been in New England.
Our soil and climate are, we apprehend, better adapted for the
permanent cultivation of this fruit, than the deep alluvial
soils of the South and West. We find that there they are
more subject to what has been denominated frozen sap blight
and canker, which we think may be attributable to their deep
soils, the roots running below the action of the sun and air, so
necessary for the health and longevity of trees. We find here,
on the contrary, apple trees in a good healthy and bearing
state, that are half a century and more old.

In New England we have a more shallow soil ; hence trees
grow slower, the wood ripening better than upon rich, deep
soils, where they are forced to grow later, the wood being suc-
culent, the leaves remaining long upon the trees, rendering
them liable to be overtaken by the winter, before the sap is
sufficiently elaborated to stand a severe freezing. Hence, we
believe that as Massachusetts can never be made a grazing or
grain growing region, compared at all with the South and
West, and as the apples here are equal, if not superior, on the
whole, to those of any other section, we would recommend to
the farmers of Essex county, to cultivate the best keeping
varieties of good winter apples, as a source of income vastly
more sure of a safe return than that of Indian corn ; for while
the Southerner cannot compete with us in the cultivation of
the former, neither can we with him in the production of the
latter.

From farther observation on the varieties of apples which,
from time to time, we have seen, since we made a former re-
port to this society, we would repeat our assertion, that a fruit,
(particularly the apple,) originating on a given soil, will
generally be superior in that locality or section, than in any
other. We have in our mind the Newtown Pippin, Esopus
Spitzenberg, Red Doctor, Pennock's Red Winter and Red
Gillyflower, fruits which are considered first rate, as well they

ESSEX SOCIETY. 49

may be, in their native habitats, but when grown upon our
New England soil, are inferior to the Baldwin, Hubbardston
Nonesuch, Mother, and Aunt Hannah. We say the same of
the imported varieties generally, with a few exceptions, such
as the Gravenstein of Germany, and the Ribston Pippin of
England; the former of which does equally well with many of
our native sorts, and the latter occasionally, particularly in
deep and rich soils.

The following varieties of apples we would recommend for
general culture.

Hubbardston Nonesuch. There is an apple cultivated some-
what extensively in Worcester county, and in some localities
here, resembling externally, the Hubbardston, and supposed to
be this fine fruit, which is not the true variety, but an inferior
apple. It can, however, be known by the growth of the tree,
as well as by the texture of the fruit. The growth of the
genuine sort is straight, or upright, the shoots dark colored,
very similar to the Baldwin, and nearly as good a grower ,in
the nursery; while the spurious variety is pendant or waving
in growth. The flesh of the true Hubbardston is yellow, that
of the spurious, white. We cannot too highly recommend
the culture of the Hubbardston Nonesuch. The fruit averages
larger than the Baldwin, is in eating some three or four weeks
earlier, and is more saccharine, or sweeter; hence some in-
dividuals call it sweet. It is not, however, sweet, as we de-
nominate the Danvers Winter Sweet, or the Green Sweet of
Coxe, but is a pleasant and rich table fruit — none better.

Baldivin. This well known fine winter fruit, all admit to be
worthy of the extensive cultivation it receives.

The Roxbury Russet and Green Sweet, are two of the latest
keeping, and most desirable apples for cultivation ; they suc-
ceed well in our county.

Murphy. This seedling winter fruit originated in Salem,
in this county. It resembles the Winter Blue Pearmain, in
form and color, but is a much better bearer than that variety,
and more deserving of cultivation It is supposed to have
been produced from a seed of the Baldwin.

Danvers Winter Siveet. This is one of the best, if not the
best, winter sweet apples we possess, and always commands a
good price in our markets.
7

50 ESSEX SOCIETY.

Rhode Island Greening. This apple is nearly as popular
with many, and is almost as well known, as the Baldwin.

Larg-e Yelloiv Bell Floiver — Minister — Svmrr. These three
varieties are great bearers, and worthy of cultivation ; they are
late keeping sorts, but require to be gathered with care, as
they bruise easily, particularly the Minister.

Jonathan, a fine winter apple of good size, highly recom-
mended by the late Judge Buel, who cultivated it extensively.

Peck's Pleasant. This apple, ripening from November to
March, has been long cultivated in Rhode Island, and there
considered a first rate fruit. It resembles, in form, the Aunt
Hannah ; it is, however, a larger apple. The tree is a moderate
grower, bears well annually, and is altogether worthy of cul-
ture.

Ribstone Pippin. This is one of the best apples in England,
standing at the head of their winter varieties. It requires a
deep and rich soil. We saw this fruit under culture, on the
grounds of a Mr. Abbott, in South Andover, where it bore
well, the fruit large and fair, the trees under good culture, and
the soil was highly manured. It being the only instance in
which we have witnessed the culture of this English sort, we
caimot speak confidently of its success in our county.

Ladies' Sweeting, This winter fruit keeps, like the Danvers
Winter Sweet, late, without shrivelling, but we cannot coincide
with Mr. Downing, in its superiority over the Danvers Sweet.
The small nursery trees we have thought rather tender, having
suffered more with us than many others. It is, however, con-
sidered by many cultivators, an acquisition to our fine winter
sweeting apples.

Aunt Hannah. This fine apple, in flavor resembling the
celebrated Newtown Pippin, as grown in Long Island and in
New Jersey, we can commend to cultivators, although of small
medium size, as heretofore grown upon old trees in poor soil ;
yet upon young and thrifty stocks, and upon a strong and well
manured land, they will grow to a good medium size. ' This
apple is like the Newtown Pippin in form, hence a member of
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, on our first exhibit-
ing these apples at their weekly shows, pronounced them
" small specimens of that variety," also as their flavor was of
the same richness. The Aunt Hannah originated in this

ESSEX SOCIETY. 51

county ; is in eating from November to February, and alto-
gether deserving of cultivation.

Red Pumpkin Siveeting-. A Connecticut seedling, introduced
by Mr. Ramsdell, of Thompson, and esteemed for the large
crops it bears, as well as for its saccharine flavor. The tree
is a vigorous grower, with very upright shoots, and comes
early into bearing, and is one of the best winter sweet apples
we possess ; in season, from October to February.

Large Yelloiv Siveet Bough. We consider this to be the
best early sweet apple of our county ; it is of large size, bears
annually medium crops. The tree is not a great grower, but
healthy and thrifty. In the eastern part of New Hampshire,
this fruit is called Early Washington. Coming early in the
summer, it is a saleable apple in the markets.

St. Laivrence. This is a most beautiful late fall fruit, ex-
hibited for the first time at our last anniversary, by Joshua
Hale, of Newbury port; it is a seedling apple, first raised by
Henry Corse, an amateur cultivator in Montreal, and which
promises to be an acquisition to our list of apples. Mr. Hale
informs us that the tree, with him, is of an upright growth,
similar to the Baldwin, and is a good bearer annually ; it was
set out in the fall of 1840, and bore the last season one and a
half bushels of fine fruit. Your committee found this fruit to
be in eating in November, and of a rich sub acid flavor, being
an excellent dessert fruit. In its rich coloring it surpasses any
apple we have ever seen, being beautifully striped with bright
flashes of crimson red.

Fall Harvey. This is also a fine, large apple, of a rich flavor,
but somewhat variable in quality, as occasionally it will be
small and rather scrubby. It being, however, generally fair and
handsome, we commend its culture to our farmers.

Williams' Early Red. This variety, when planted upon a
warm and deep soil, with high manuring, produces a beautiful
fruit, aboTC medium size, but in a light, thin soil, it is small
and indifferent. It will not accommodate itself, as has been
said of the Baldwin, to almost every variety of soil and aspect;
but under the above mode of culture it deserves a place in
every garden and orchard, and will then command a greater
price than any apple coming thus early in the season.

Porter. This is a Massachusetts apple, first raised by Rev.

52 ESSEX SOCIETY.

Mr. Porter, of Sherborn. It is deservedly a great favorite as
a dessert fruit, and commands a good price in the markets.
Tlie tree is very productive, the fruit rather large and oblong,
ripening in September.

Haskell Sweet. Originated on the farm of Deacon Haskell,
in Ipsuach, (now owned by Mr. Nourse, of the firm of Rug-
gles, Nourse & Mason,) and on which the original stock is now
standing. It is one of the best, if not the best fall sweeting.
It is extensively cultivated in Western New York, and deserves
to be better known in New England. By Cole it is called the
Sassafras apple. It is large, and very juicy, in eating from the
middle of October to the middle of November. The nursery
trees are straight and good growers.

Pears. — So many varieties of this fruit have been brought for-
ward, it is difficult to say which are, upon the whole, most desira-
ble for general cultivation ; for while many of the new Belgian
and Flemish kinds succeed well, as they often do, in the shel-
tered and warm gardens of our cities, they canker and blast in
open country exposure. The best varieties of pears, are those
originated in our own country, or in the more temperate and
colder latitudes of Europe. Many of the old varieties hereto-
fore cultivated, are now displaced by better sorts. It was well,
at our former shows, to bring forward those that were found,
upon trial, indifferent if not worthless, in order that we should
avoid working such fruits; but the time, we think, has arrived,
when it is no longer necessary to exhibit at our annual shows
these discarded fruits. We have also some varieties of apples
which many of our farmers continue to cultivate, that ought
not to be recommended for general culture. The Winter Blue
Pearmain is not so desirable a fruit as the Murphy, which re-
sembles it closely in form and color, but is a better bearer, and
altogether superior for orchard culture; and the Kilham Hill
is perishable in its nature, and the worst keeping apple we are
acquainted with. The following pears, which have thus far
done well in open culture, we would recommend in this report :

Bloodg-ood, early, native fruit.
Bartlett, September, foreign fruit.
Andrews, September, native fruit.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 53

Rostiezer, early, native fruit.
Cushing; September, native fruit.
Buffum, September, native fruit.
Flemish Beaut//, September, foreign fruit.
Louise Bonne de Jersey, September, foreign fruit.
Seckel, September, native fruit.
Leivis, early winter, native fruit.
Winter Nelis, winter, native fruit.
Vicar of Winkfield, winter, foreign fruit.
Black Pear of Worcester, — Catillac, — Uvedale's St. Germain
or Pound. These three are foreign fruits, for winter cooking.

Peaches. — In the cultivation of this fruit it is not well to
run to many varieties, it being better policy to cultivate a few
of the hardiest and best sorts. The yellow-flesh peaches, al-
though not the highest flavored, are those which we should
recommend for market. Among these, the most desirable are
the Red-Cheek Melacoton and its seedlings ; Crawford's Early
and Crawford's Late Yellow. The Red-Cheek Melacoton we
have found to be most profitable, inasmuch as it ripens after
the general supply of peaches is gone, and wiU then command
a good price. We have had this fruit, with its brilliant red
cheek, hanging upon the trees as late as the second or third
week in October; it is also a great bearer annually. Mr.
Downing says of it, " Hundreds of thousands of bushels are
raised and sent to market, in this country, every year." It is
also an American seedling, and if true, as said by Mr. Cole,
that natives are more hardy than foreign peach trees, this will
be an additional recommendation. Of Crawford's Early and
Crawford's Late, we would say that no two sorts, following
each other in their time of ripening, are more desirable for
cultivation, in our catalogue of peaches.

Quinces. — Orange Quince. This is a profitable fruit for
cultivation, particularly the Early Orange, or Apple Quince.
Many quince trees which we see around us, are seedlings, with
fruit of a green color, oblong form, and thick, leathery skin, and
are hardly fit for cultivation. We should avoid raising bushes
of this kind, either from seeds or cuttings. We would re-
commend planting from seeds or cuttings of the true variety,
as seeds from this sort will most generally produce their kind ;

54 ESSEX SOCIETY.

but the surest method of obtaining them, is by engrafting. We
have, however, never found any difficulty in raising at least a
great proportion of fine fruited bushes, from seeds of the finest
sorts. In regard to the cultivation of this fruit, we apprehend
it to be a delusion to suppose that quince trees want a wet and
shady position, and that they do not require manuring. On
the contrary, they should be set in good loam, and the earth
should be loosened deeply, or ti'enched by double spading, and
well manured with a good compost in the drills. Shorten in
the branches, (one-half of the last year's growth,) give the roots
a good drenching with water at the time of setting out, (not
after,) leave the soil around the stem, concave ; place them
ten feet apart, and the rows twelve feet ; prune just after the
fall of the leaf, or early in March ; fork in, late in the fall, three
four shovels full of fresh manure. After loosening around the
trees in sy3ring, you may then give the whole a broadcast of salt.
In this connection we would remark, that as a general com-
post for fruit trees, we consider nothing superior to that formed
of wood ashes and peat, with an admixture of salt.

Cranberries. — Your committee, upon the upland culture of
the cranberry, would respectfully report :

That upon the above culture of this valuable fruit, we would
premise that, in our opinion, the Essex county as well as
other societies in this State, have been heretofore rather pre-
mature in their recommendation of this mode of culture. As
" one swallow does not make a summer," neither will one
experiment justify us in commending this method. All know
that the cranberry is natural to the meadow, and although the
covering with water may be injurious at the time of flowering,
as well as at the time of setting its fruit, still, the flooding of
the vines in winter, or the covering with litter or evergreens to
protect the roots, as is practised in the upland culture, will
prevent the culture of this fruit to any extent.

In order to be made remunerative, these beds or patches
must be made on the meadow, or upon a springy soil. Your
committee visited, this fall. Mi*. Needham's fine cranberry patch
in Danvers, which is upon upland, so called. We found the
owner, with his man, in the process of hand-weeding, thus
late in the season ; and to the inquiry as regards the labor in
weeding, how it would compare with the same area of straw-

ESSEX SOCIETY. 55

berries, he replied that to keep this bed well weeded, required
five times the labor. The whole process, from the first prepa-
ration of the land, — the placing of meadow or swamp mud be-
tween the rows in mid-summer, the weeding throughout the
season, the necessity of covering them in winter with ever-
greens,— requires a vast amount of labor. In considering the
above testimony, which is corroborated by S. P. Fowler, of the
committee, we have arrived at the conclusion, that the upland
culture could not be recommended to the farmers of this
county. Your committee also found, that in Mr. Needham's
mode of culture, the fruit cannot be gathered by the cranberry
rakes without great injury to the vines, but that they must be
hand picked.

The same objections we should not make to their cultiva-
tion on their natural habitats, as we should to the corn field,
but would strongly commend the setting out and extending
the area of our cranberry meadows, and also in preparing
others by the same means which are now used in reclaiming
them for the production of English grass. For the best man-
ner of doing this we would refer to the former reports of the
society.

For the committee,

John M. Ives.

Introduction of New Fruits.

The committee on the introduction of new fruits, report that
Messrs. J. & E. Lake, of Topsfield, presented three varieties
of seedling grapes, for the consideration of the committee,
ripening about the middle of September. One of these varie-
ties, bearing a small berry, is an improvement on the native
grape. But the committee do not consider it as approaching
that high quality, for which the society offer the premiums of
twenty -five and fifty dollars, viz.: "for a variety of native or
seedling grape, of decidedly superior quality, ripening in this
county in the open air, by the middle of September; prolific,
and suitable for the table."

The committee would suggest to persons making experi-
ments in raising new varieties of the grape, to avail themselves
of the process of the cross fertilization of the flowers of differ-

56 ESSEX SOCIETY.

ent varieties ; as for instance, the native Isabella with the
Black Hamburg, or some other desirable foreign variety. Seeds
thus obtained and planted, would be much more likely to pro-
duce the desired result. The person who shall produce such
a grape as is contemplated, for the society's premiums, will be
a public benefactor. It is hoped that experiments will con-
tinue to be made, till the object in view be obtained.

JosiAH Newhall, Chairman.

Vegetables.

On entering upon the discharge of their duties, your com-
mittee found placed at their disposal a motley group of the
productions of the vegetable kingdom, consisting of mammoth
squashes ; huge beets, carrots and onions ; potatoes, cooked
and uncooked; tomatoes, in varieties; cabbages, corn, &c.
The delicious and choice fruits, as the apple, the pear, the
peach, the plum, the grape, — the lovely and beautiful flowers
of the greenhouse and the garden, of the fields, the woods, and
the meadows, — had been assigned to other committees.

The display of vegetables was good, a very perceptible im-
provement upon that of many previous years, but yet did not
attain that standard of perfection which, from the character of
our county, we had a right to expect.

[The committee, after enumerating the contributions re-
ceived, go on to award sundry small premiums, and then re-
mark : — ]

Your committee regret that the amount appropriated was
so limited as to exclude the awarding of gratuities to others of
the contributors, who were deserving of sjome notice in this
respect. They sincerely trust that this department will receive
from the trustees, another season, more encouragement than
has heretofore been so sparingly bestowed.

They would also respectfully suggest to the trustees, the
expediency of establishing certain premiums, to be awarded at
the annual exhibition, for the best general display of vegeta-
bles, also for that of particular kinds, as of beets, squashes, or
the like, and for the introduction of any new variety or

ESSEX SOCIETY. 57

varieties, which, upon trial, shall prove worthy of general cul-
tivation.

The society cannot appropriate a portion of its income to a
more worthy object than the encouragement, among our com-
munity, more especially the agricultural portion, of a taste for
the formation of kitchen gardens, commonly so called, where
vegetables of all kinds can be found growing in the greatest
state of perfection. These will conduce not only to the pro-
fits of the farm, and consequently to the productive wealth of
the country, but to the health and happiness of all, more
especially of those engaged in these pursuits. This last is
the most important consideration.

Your committee cannot more appropriately close this report
than by quoting the following extract from the Rev. Dr.
Deane's celebrated work on Agriculture, " The New England
Farmer," published more than thirty years since, and having
passed through several editions.

" I consider the kitchen garden as of very considerable im-
portance, as pot herbs, salads, and roots of various kinds are
useful in housekeeping. Having plenty of them at hand, a
family will not be so likely to run into the error, which is too
common in this country, of eating flesh in too great a propor-
tion for health. Farmers, as well as others, should have
kitchen gardens. And they need not grudge the labor of
tending them, which may be done at odd intervals of time,
which may otherwise chance to be consumed in needless
loitering."

To the farmers of Essex, a county containing so many
cities and large towns scattered over its territory, having a
population more dense than any territory of the same extent
in the United States, and so large a portion of it engaged in
manufacturing and other pm-suits than those of agriculture ;
thus affording very convenient and accessible markets for the
disposal of the products of the garden — these remarks are
particularly deserving of their consideration.

Respectfully submitted,

Henry Wheatland, Chairman,

58 ESSEX SOCIETY.

The committee on farms report that their attention has been
called to only one farm entered for premium, that of Joseph
Holt, Jr., in Andover, in the South Parish. This was visited
by a majority of the committee in June last, and the day was
spent in viewing the improvements effected by its owner.
These consist principally in removing large quantities of rocks,
and placing them in deep trenches and substantial walls, and
in this way reclaiming land from pasture into mowing and til-
lage, and fencing it in the most durable manner. This work
has been done principally by Mr. Holt himself, but in the
minds of the committee there were strong doubts whether the
labor was so judiciously applied, as it would have been in the
higher cultivation of land already fitted for the scythe and
plough. It was stated, however, by Mr. Holt that the farm
came into his possession by inheritance, and that from ances-
tral associations he had been induced to expend so much labor,
in subduing ground so rough and stony.

Mr. Holt's farm is small, consisting of less than thirty acres
in the homestead, and, including meadow and woodland, eighty
acres in all. Its management appears to be marked by neat-
ness, skill and industry, and doubtless it yields as good an
income as similar farms, under the like management. There
is a convenient cellar under the barn, but v/e noticed nothing
peculiar in the arrangements of the buildings or the yards, or
in the cultivation of the crops, from which we think any new
information could be derived for the benefit of other farmers.
But the pattern Mr. Holt presents of a hard-working and an
economical farmer, and the improvements he has effected, con-
sidering the means at his command, entitle him to the com-
mendation of the society, and a gratuity of $15.

Mr. Holt's land, like much that we see in the county, would
be greatly benefitted by a more liberal outlay for manure,
either by manufacturing it from peat, leaves and head-lands,
composted with barn-manure, or by purchasing stable-manure,
night-soil, ashes, or other fertilizers. In the opinion of the
committee, not one farmer in ten, in the county, lays up ^100
a year for the proceeds of his farm, over and above his ex-
penses, principally for the reason that the land cultivated is not

ESSEX SOCIETY. 59

manured so highly as it ought to be, and it consequently fails
to produce remunerating crops.

As a general maxim, it may be asserted that land poorly
manured impoverishes its cultivator, land moderately manured
yields a moderate subsistence, whilst land that is highly ma-
nured, pays liberally for its liberal treatment. This is true not
merely in regard to tillage crops, but also to grass lands and
orchards, and the committee would say, cultivate only so much
land as can be cultivated well, — a proposition so just that it
will be assented to by nearly every farmer, and yet is practised
upon by only a few. A good illustration of the benefits of
high and careful culture, is furnished by the market gardeners
here in our own county, who, on a few acres, raise crops of
onions, cabbages and squashes, that yield them a net profit of
hundreds of dollars per acre. But most of our farmers spread
their manure and labor over so large a surface, that both are
frittered away and nearly lost. Until more judicious economy
is practised in this respect, we may expect to hear from the
mass of our farmers, as we do hear, a negative response to the
question, " Is farming profitable ? "

In November, the committee, by invitation of the Overseers
of the Poor, visited the Town Farm in Danvers. This farm,
under the management of Adino Page, superintendent of the
almshouse establishment there, who has often been a success-
ful competitor for our premiums for grain crops, is conducted
with good judgment and skill, and, in connection with other
industrial operations carried on there, is made so productive as
to reduce the cost of supporting the poor at the house, deduct-
ing outside expenses, to tvvcnty-eight cents a week for each
inmate. The soil is light and very gravelly — truly a hungry
soil ; and yet by deep ploughing and liberal manuring, it yields
crops above the average of the best lands in the county.

Large quantities of offal are purchased at the slaughter
houses in Danvers, and brought to this establishment. Here
the heads and shins are boiled, — the tallow is saved for the
curriers, and soap and candle makers ; the neats-foot oil for
the harness makers; the bones for the button manufacturers,
and for other purposes ; the bits of skin for the glue-makers ;
and the refuse of these, with the blood and entrails, are thrown
into the large yard adjoining, as a rich, though not very deli-

60 ESSEX SOCIETY.

cate, food for the one hundred or more swine, which devour all
of it that is eatable, and, with a plentiful supply of meadow
mud, work up the rest into the richest of food for the grain
and other crops raised on the farm. Five hundred cart loads
of manure are thus made here annually, and never have we
seen a more thrifty and profitable set of hogs, in any enclosure.
The large cellar under the barn, which is connected with the
hog-yard by an underground passage-way, furnishes a dry
sleeping apartment to the hogs, and the materials for increas-
ing still further the manure heap.

From the nature of the soil here, it may be doubted whether
this manure, strong as it is, produces very permanent effects.
Land so light and gravelly, needs a large admixture of clay, to
retain the fertilizing properties of the animal manures applied
to it. If this can be obtained on the farm, or at a short dis-
tance from it, it might be carted on in the fall and winter, and
laid out in heaps, so as to be pulverized by the frosts, and then
srpead and ploughed in, in the spring. Clay is sometimes
found on silicious soils a few feet from the surface, and by dig-
ging pits at proper intervals, where this is the case, a supply
may be had, without much expense for transportation.

Mr. Page has also employed the pauper labor of the farm
to advantage in reclaiming considerable tracts of low meadow
lands, — portions of which are yet waiting for similar improve-
ments,— and in draining run lands, both by surface ditches and
underdrains. We noticed one thing in the practice of Mr.
Page, and we understand that it is not uncommon with the
farmers and gardeners of Danvers, which has attracted much
attention in England, and which is there claimed as the result
of recent scientific investigations, but which has here been
practised for years with good eifects ; we allude to ploughing
in manures in the fall.

The London Agricultural Gazette says that " Autumnal
manuring, immediately followed and covered by the plough, is
the most valvable discovery, perhaps, in its results, for which
agriculture has been indt bted to science." This statement is
founded upon the experiments of Professor Way, " who has
clearly established the fact that the soil has the peculiar prop-
erty of absorbing and appropriating all those elements of
manure intermixed with it, which are essential to the growth

ESSEX SOCIETY. 61

of plants." Knowing that this subject had been examined by
Levi Bartlett, of Warner, N. H., and deeming it one of im-
portance in farm management, we addressed a letter to him
requesting his views and experience respecting it, and we
annex his reply, as a highly instructive document.

The committee have to reiterate the old complaint, that so
few of our farmers have been willing to come forward as com-
petitors for the liberal premiums offered by this society for
farm management. They have been led to examine the
Transactions, from the origin of the society, to see what sums
have been awarded for these premiums, and to whom and in
what years they have been awarded ; and in the belief that
some useful suggestions may be .derived from the review, they
herewith give the results of their examinations :

1821. Isaac Dodge, Hamilton, gratuity, . . $10 00

1822. William Bartlett, Methuen, first premium, . 30 00
" James Putnam, Danvers, second " . 20 00

1824. " " " first " . 30 00

" Indian Hill Farm, W. Newbury, second do., . 25 00

1826. Moses Newell, W. Newbury, first do., . . 35 00

" Ira P. Perley, Newbury, second do., . . 30 00

" David Gray, Andover, third do., . . .25 00

« Nath'l Pearson, W. Newbury, fourth do., . 20 00

" Benj. T. Reed, Marblehead, fifth do., . . 15 00

" Isaac Patch, Hamilton, sixth do., . . 10 00

1828. Jacob Osgood, Andover, first do., . .35 00
" William Thurlow, W. Newbury, second do., . 30 00
" David Gray, Andover, third do., . . 25 00
" Daniel Putnam, Danvers, fourth do., . . 20 00
" James Pecker, Amesbury, fifth do., . . 15 00

1829. Daniel Putnam, Danvers, third do., . . 24 00
" Amos Gould, Ipswich, fourth do., . . 21 00
« Moses Little, W. Newbury, fifth do., . . 18 00
" John Adams, Andover, sixth do., . . 15 00
" James Stevens, Andover, gratuity, . . 12 00

1830. Erastus Ware, Salem, first premium, . . 30 00
" John Adams, Andover, fifth do., . . 18 00

1831. Jesse Curtis, Marblehead, first do., . . 26 50

62 ESSEX SOCIETY.

1831, Matthew Hooper, Danvers, second premium, . $26 50

" Jedediah H. Barker, Andover, gratuity, . . 12 00

1833. Joseph Kittredge, Andover, second premium, . 27 00

" Thomas Chase, Rowley, first do., . . 30 00

1835. Daniel Putnam, Danvers, first do., . . 30 00

1837. Joseph How, Methuen, first do., . . 30 00

" Erastus Ware, Marblehead, second do., . 25 00

1845. Christopher How, Methuen, first do., . . 25 00
" Daniel P. King, Danvers, second do., . . 20 00
" Jonas Holt, Andover, gratuity, . . . 8 00

1846. " " " second premium, . . 20 00

1847. Daniel Pillsbury, W. Newbury, gratuity, . 10 00

1848. Leverett Bradley, Methuen, first premium, . 25 00
" Henry B. Newhall, Lynn, third do., . . 10 00

1849. Joseph F. Ingalls, Methuen, gratuity, . . 15 00
" Jonathan Merrill, " " . . 10 00
" Daniel Merrill, 2d, " " . . 10 00
" Simeon L. Wilson, " " . . 10 00

1850. J. F. Winkley, Araesbury, first premium, . 15 00
" Henry Poor, Andover, second do,, . . 10 00

1851. William F. Porter, Bradford, first do., . . 25 00

1852. Joseph Holt, Jr., Andover, gratuity, . . 15 00

From this it appears that from 1821 to 1835, the first fifteen
years of the society's existence, there were twenty-nine com-
petitors, and $675 awarded for farm management, while from
1837 to 1852 there were only seventeen competitors, and $283
awarded. Of these competitors, there were in Andover, eleven ;
Methuen, eight; Danvers, seven ; West Newbury, six; Marble-
head, three ; Newbury, Amesbury, and Hamilton, two each ;
Salem, Lynn, Ipswich, Bradford, and Rowley, one each.

It would appear too that in 1826, '27 a(id '28, there was a
large number of competitors for these premiums. In those
years there seem to have been an interest and enthusiasm
elicited in these premiums, such as have not been witnessed
since. These were years, when the committee had a duty to
perform that required the exercise of sound judgment and
discrimination, and from which they gathered much practical
information to embody in their reports. But of late, so few

ESSEX SOCIETY. 63

have been the entries of farms for premium that there has been
little for the committee to do in the way of the examination
and comparison of farms.

The remedy for this state of things, it is difficult for the
committee to see. They have no belief that increasing the
amount of premiums would call out more competitors ; for in
other societies, Middlesex, for example, where the amount
offered is not so large as with us, there is no lack of entries of
farms for premiums. A livelier interest must in some way or
other be excited in these premiums, if we would draw out
more competition, and derive from them the full benefits con-
templated in their offer. Public spirited men, trustees, and
other members of the society, who are interested in its pro-
gress, should present their farms for premium. Let a dozen
or more come forward this very year ; not wait till some fur-
ther improvements are effected, nor wait one for another to
lead off, but each make it a point of duty that he owes the
society, to volunteer in the cause, and there will be a begin-
ning of the good times coming for the committee on farms of
Essex Agricultural Society. Let this be done for a few years
in succession, and the diffidence or the indifference, whichever
or whatever it be, that now rests, like an incubus, on our
farmers in this matter, would be shaken off, and the example
thus set would become contagious. We should then enter on
a new era in our history, and be stimulated to devise new
modes of offering premiums on farms.

Here we may say, that if attention was directed, in the
examination of farms, to specific points, to be announced
beforehand, competitors would be more ready and better pre-
pared to enter their farms for examination, and the commit-
tees could make a more correct comparison between them.
A scale of fourteen points might be framed, something like the
following, no competitor to be allowed a premium for a farm
under ten points.

Article. Points.

1. Farm Buildings and Yards, . .1

2. Manure and Compost heap,

3. Stock, for quality and condition,

4. Tillage crops ; Indian Corn,

5. " « Potatoes, .

ESSEX SOCIETY.

Article.

6. Tillage crop, Roots,

7. Small Grain crops,

8. Grass, on uplands,

9. Grass, on reclaimed meadows,

10. Ditches and Underdrains, .

11. Orchards and Kitchen Gardens,

12. Stone Walls and other fences,

13. Dairy products,

14. Farm accounts.

For the committee.

Points.
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

Allen W. Dodge, Chairman.

Joseph Holt, JrJs, Statement.

The farm offered for the society's premium, is composed of
the following parcels : home place, twenty-seven acres ; wood-
land about thirty acres; pasture, (one mile and a half from
home,) sixteen acres ; meadow and woodland, (distant three
and a half miles,) seven acres.

Twenty-three acres of the homestead, I inherited from my
ancestors, together with the meadow and woodland. More
than one-half of the original of the home land, I have subdued
from a very rough, unproductive state ; a number of acres of it
have cost a hundred dollars or more per acre, before I put a
seed into it. There was not a rod of good stone wall on the
place, 1 have rebuilt the whole of it, I think the whole length
of wall that I have built, is three hundred and seventy rods; a
great part of it is trenched from twelve to sixteen inches deep.
My land is so much affected by frost, that a wall, however
heavy and well laid, will not keep in place but a few years,
unless the foundation is placed below the reach of frost. I
have laid an underdrain through one piece" of land about fifty
rods, with a ditch four feet wide and three feet deep, filled
with stone, within eight inches of the surface.

The committee may think that I have made too large an
outlay for a man with a small income, and no surplus capital;
and I have frequently felt myself, that I might not, in my day,
realize, in dollars and cents, all that I have expended in this
way; still, I think it will pay in the end. I have built nothing

ESSEX SOCIETY. 65

that has been very expensive. My house is probably more
than a hundred and twenty years old. I have repaired it at a
cost of a few hundred dollars ; put a cellar under my barn,
built an addition to the barn, and a number of small build-
ings. -

I have usually kept, for the last eight or ten years, one
horse, one yoke of oxen, from three to four cows, and some
young stock.

I have made, for the last few years, from thirty to one hun-
dred cart-loads of manure yearly. I have formerly used con-
siderable meadow mud, but I begin to think that it does not
do so well on our heavy moist land, for a compost, as soil, or
something that is obtained from dry land ; yet I have no doubt
that it is the right thing for many kinds of land. The manner
in which I have applied manure, generally, is to spread twenty
loads to the acre, when I seed down with grass. I have gen-
erally seeded down in the spring, and sowed oats or barley,
but sometimes have sow^ed my grain in the spring, and
ploughed in the stubble in September and sowed grass. When
my grain has a very heavy straw, and falls before it is ripe,
much of the grass that has been sown in spring, is destroyed ;
this is especially the case with oats. My corn I have always
manured in the hill, and spread all that remained after sowing
my grass and grain. My crops the present year, are full mid-
dling, except the hay ; in that 1 am cut short nearly one-half, —
certainly more than one-third, on my ploughed lands. My
meadow grass was an average crop. I raised one hundred
bushels of corn on two and one-fourth acres of ground ; one
acre was grass land, ploughed the last of November, the re-
mainder was planted with corn, the year before. The crop
on the part that was turned up last fall, was nearly one-third
heavier than the former, which is not common on our land.
I can assign no reason for this, it being all manured alike, but
I think the dry weather must have affected the old ground
more sensibly. I do not recollect that my corn crop was ever
injured by drought before, but a part of my field, I think, was
this year. I raised seventy bushels of barley and oats on two
and one-fourth acres ; one acre of oats, forty bushels ; one and
one-fourth acres of barley, thirty bushels. My potatoes were
sound, but the yield was not great. I planted one-half an
9

66 ESSEX SOCIETY.

acre, and raised seventy-five bushels. I have milked, this
year, four cows, and made, through June, July and August,
twenty-two pounds of butter per week. My orchard is all
young ; most of it has just commenced bearing. I have
raised this season, fifty bushels of market apples — Baldwins.

Joseph Holt, Jr.
Andover, Nov. 16, 1852.

Levi Bartletfs Letter.

Warner, N. H., Dec. 3, 1852.

Allen W. Dodge: — Dear Sir: The experiments of Pro-
fessor Way seem to throw much light upon some things con-
nected with agriculture, that were previously rather dark, and
not so easily comprehended. Still, I do not think Professor
Way's experiments, alone, fully explain the whole phenomena
of the fertility of naturally rich soils. We are, I think, equally
indebted to Liebig and Dr. Krocker, for an explanation of a
portion of the facts. Professor Way's experiments have proved.
Liebig made the discovery of the existence of ammonia in
rain water, and Dr. Krocker has, by his analysis, proved the
existence of a large amount of ammonia in the soil ; and Pro-
fessor Way has shown the capacity of the alluminous portions
of soils, for retaining — fixing, as it were, — the salts and gases,
so necessary in rendering a soil fertile. Says Professor Way,
this " is a very wonderful property of soil, and appears to be
an express provision of nature ; a power," he remarks, " is here
found to reside in soils, by virtue of which, not only is rain
unable to wash out of them those soluble ingredients forming
a necessary condition of vegetation ; but even these com-
pounds, when introduced artificially by manures, are laid hold
of and fixed in the soil, to the absolute preqlusion of amj loss^
either hij rain or evaporation.^^

I must beg leave to be excused from going the ivhole figure
with him, in the above strong assertion. Take, for illustra-
tion, a strong clay soil, that has been thoroughly underdrained,
and then put upon it twenty-five loads per acre, of cattle ma-
nure from a barn cellar, spread and plough it in, let a heavy
rain follow, and I think the waters running from the drains
would show by their color, taste, and smell, that some of the

ESSEX SOCIETY. 67

compounds (artificially introduced into the soil by manures)
had escaped with the water and were entirely lost. Then let
the sun burst out so as to cause a rapid evaporation from the
soil, and would not some of the ammonia ae^ain take winsr
and escape into the atmosphere ? I so opine ; but that an
aluminous soil, possesses a vastly greater capacity for retain-
ing the fertilizing qualities of manures, than a silicious soil,
there can be no doubt.

You ask the results of my practice in fall manuring. In
the spring of 1847, I planted about one hundred rods of in-
verted sod land with corn, the soil a strong yellow loam ; the
manure was all applied upon the surface, and harrowed in ; a
fair crop of corn followed. Soon as harvested, I prepared the
ground for sowing winter rye ; by (a-la-mode Phinney) the
use of the cultivator and harrow ; rye, herdsgrass and red top
were sown, (as I was residing in Boston, there was no clover
seed sown in the spring as I intended to have had done.) The
crop of rye was good, but the prospect for future hay crops
was bad, and I concluded to plough up and plant again. I
left Boston first of June, 1848, and soon after, happening into
one of our stores, the owner remarked to me that he had a lot
of damaged salt fish, and if I could work them up into ma-
nure, I might have them in welcome. The next day I sent
my team after the fish ; there were about five quintals, these
were placed in alternate layers, with about five cart4oads of
fresh dug muck ; in a few days there was a strong smell
arising from the heap ; first of September shovelled over the
pile and found but few traces of the fish remaining. Late in
the autumn this was hauled on to the rye stnbble, being about
six common cart-loads, and as many more loads of manure
from the barnyard, all of which was spread and ploughed in.
In the spring, about a dozen loads of green winter-made ma-
nure were applied, and cross ploughed ; the result was the
best crop of corn I ever raised ; the corn came up and went
right ahead, to the end of the season.

I have since pursued the same course in using the manure
that I have on hand every fall, thinking if there is a small loss
either by leaching or evaporation, it is not so great as the
extra expense of carting out in the fall, and piling up in trig
heaps, as manure should always be, if destined to lie over

68 ESSEX SOCIETY.

winter. But my practice till this autumn, has always been
to apply the manure in the fall to loamy soil. The past
season, I had an acre of land planted with potatoes; most of
this field was of a sandy texture. After the potatoes were dug
and the tops removed, I carted on to this acre twenty-two loads
of manure, spread, and then harrowed the ground with a
heavy harrow. Next spring I shall add more manure, and use
the cultivator and harrow only, so as not to disturb the invert-
ed sward, and plant with corn. There may be some loss of
the manure on this sandy soil by leaching ; but I do not think
it will be equal to the expense of having to remove the manure
next spring, as is usually practised by most farmers. If you
have sandy soils, upon which you wish to apply manures in
autumn, I think you would not suffer much loss in carting on
fine manure, (whether it is stubble ground, or inverted soil,)
and working it into the surface soil, by the harrow and
cultivator. Yours truly,

Levi Bartlett.

Fattening Cattle and Swine.

In the absence of any statements of competitors for the
premiums offered on this subject, the chairman of the com-
mittee would communicate some facts within his experience,
relating to the management of cattle and swine. Our annual
custom at the Town Farm, in Danvers, has been, for a number
of years past, to keep four oxen for labor on the farm, for
which we find constant employment ; and we usually purchase
those in working condition, and of a large size. They are fed
with the products of the farm and Indian meal, giving them
from four to six quarts of meal per day ; generally the latter
quantity after the first three months. Their skins are kept
clean by the use, every day, of the card and brush. This I
think important, and should not be neglected. Their stalls
are plentifully littered with straw, or meadow hay, and
thus are kept dry and comfortable. They are, and should be,
driven carefully and treated kindly, and never subject to blows,
kicks, nor any harsh treatment whatever. Kindness and care
should ever be the motto of the teamster.

With the amount of labor that they perform under such

ESSEX SOCIETY. 69

treatment, we generally find them, in from four to twelve
months, fat. We then turn them for beef at the highest mar-
ket price, and they return us from twenty to fifty dollars a
pair more than their cost. We have considered this one of
the most profitable ways of keeping cattle.

The management of our swine at the Town Farm has
so often been stated, that I have nothing new to communi-
cate ; but as these few remarks may come to the notice of
those who are not familiar with our management, I will briefly
state it.

We have a yard covering about half an acre of ground, in
which our swine are kept. It is so constructed as best to
facilitate the making and preservation of manure. Care is
taken to have a full supply of meadow mud, and other mate-
rials collected on the farm, for the operations of the swine.
In this way there is annually made more than a hundred cords
of valuable manure. This adds much in increasing the crops
and improving the condition of the farm. We replenish our
stock of swine twice a year, by purchasing usually from
Brighton Market from seventy-five to eighty pigs, of about a
hundred pounds weight.

Care is always taken to select the most promising from the
droves there for sale. After keeping them about six months,
we find them to weigh from two to three hundred pounds.
Much of their feed is furnished from the offal procured from
slaughter-houses in town. This offal adds essentially to the
quantity and quality of the manure. Attached to the yard
are sheds to protect them from the weather, and there is a con-
venient house fitted up with troughs for feeding them. Most
of the labor in collecting the materials for manure and taking
care of the swine, is performed by the inmates of the house,
so that it is done without much expense. I would say that I
think it important that hogs should have a place to lie where
they can be free from wet or dampness, for unless they have
a dry bed they will not fatten. The present year we paid
seven cents per pound for pigs, the pork was sold at eight and
one-half cents per pound, yielding, we consider, a fair return
and a good profit.

WiNGATE Merrill, Chairman.

Danvers, Nov. 18, 1852.

70 ESSEX SOCIETY.

Manures.

The committee on manures report that no entries for pre-
mium on that subject have been made the present year. Your
committee regret that so important a subject should not have
been brought to their notice by those who have made experi-
ments on manures, so that others of less experience might
have the benefit of their knowledge.

But lest the subject should pass without note or comment, I
will give my own method of increasing my compost heap,
though I do not expect to advance any new views.

In the first place, I cover my barnyard and cellar with peat
mud and soil, to the depth of six or eight inches, and yard my
cattle through the summer and fall, upon it. Late in the fall
I give it another coating of mud, about the same thickness as
at first, where it remains till spring. By thus managing, the
liquors are all absorbed, and the droppings from the cattle be-
come pretty well incorporated with the mud during the winter.
It is true, by the above practice, I find it a little inconvenient
getting about the yard at some seasons of the year ; but when
the yard becomes too wet and soft, I obtain, if possible, a few
loads of coarse manure from the stables, and spread over it, so
that the cattle may tread it into the mud.

In the spring, I have it thrown into large heaps under the
sheds in the yard, (which are made almost expressly for this
purpose,) and barn cellar, — where it remains a few weeks,
when it is forked over, breaking the lumps fine, and making it
fit for use.

I also keep a quantity of soil at a convenient distance from
the sink-room, to receive the soap suds and waste water from
the house. This I replenish several times during the year, and
it makes a valuable manure for top dressing grass lands. By
this management, I make a much larger quantity of manure
than I can obtain in any other way, for the same cost.

From the little experience I have had with manure com-
posted as above, I am confident that I get as good crops as I
did when I used green manure altogether.

Lewis Allen, Chairman.
Danvers, Nov. 25, 1852.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 71

Flowers.
The committee on flowers awarded the following premiums:

To G. J. Thornton, of Andover, for a magnificent cone
of cut flowers. This cone was six feet in height, and
five feet in diameter at the base, and was a striking
and beautiful object, . . . . . $4 00

Mr. Thornton also presented other cut flowers of
much beauty.

To Mr. Flynn, gardener of C. S. Storrow, Esq., of Law-
rence, for sixty specimens of Dahlias. These were
exceedingly well grown, and beautiful flowers, . 3 00

To John Hart, for forty Dahlias; twelve Fuschias in
pots, and in full bloom ; Balsams in plates, and other
flowers, from garden of Gen. H. K. Oliver, of Law-
rence, . . . . . . . 3 00

The above constituted nearly the whole of the floral exhibi-
tion of the fair. The committee regret that so limited a show
was made, but at the same time feel the justice of awarding
much praise for the beauty and perfectness of the flowers
shown, especially of the Dahlias. * * * *

Henry K. Oliver, Chairman.

The committee on essays, Gardner B. Perry, chairman,
awarded the premium of ten dollars to David Choate, of Essex,
for the following

Essay on Sheep Husbandry.

It does not necessarily follow, that the writer of an essay on
a given subject, should advocate changes and innovations in
regard to it. As much good service is often rendered by advis-
ing people to " let well enough alone," as in any other way.
Speculations are sometimes synonymous with losses, and were
not farmers generally amongst the last to be convinced of the
utility of change, it might be positively injurious to argue in
favor of new or modified methods of husbandry. It is not the
object of this essay professedly to advise the farmers of Essex

72 ESSEX SOCIETY.

county to go largely into wool-growing, and yet if it should
clearly follow, from this humble effort, that something further
should be attempted in the matter of keeping sheep, by a
moderate expenditure, annually increased for a few years, until
the experiment should be fairly tried, it will not surely be cause
of regret.

Various causes concur, to make it difficult to suggest any
rule, which will apply to all parts of even the county of Essex.
Land in the neighborhood of market towns is too valuable for
keeping sheep. This is well understood by farmers. Even in
Amesbury, although there were twenty-seven sets of woolen
machinery in that town in 1837, there were but four hundred
and ninety-eight sheep kept, for the reason, no doubt, that the
milk of the cow at Newburyport market, would pay better.
The town of Beverly had but one hundred sheep in 1837,
being within a mile of Salem, and Danvers only fifty, while
Boxford had four hundred and eighty-four.

And again, some kinds of sheep require more expensive
keeping than others do. So, also, much depends upon the
leading object for which sheep are intended to be kept —
whether for the wool or the carcass — and again, whether for
fine or for coarse wool.

It will be safe, in general, however, to lay down the broad
principle, that Essex county is not the place for extensive wool-
growing. Mr. Jewett, an American wool-grower, has recently
imported French sheep, which shear twenty-one pounds each,
at an outlay of some $30,000, but that is in Northern Ver-
mont, and there, sheep may be pastured at two to three shil^
lings each, while ninety cents each is as low as it can be done
for in our county.

Still, when it is recollected that in 1845 there were sixteen
woolen mills in this county, with one hundred and three sets
of machinery, working up two million two huildred and ninety-
two thousand five hundred pounds of wool annually, and that
there should have actually been but fifteen thousand six hun-
dred and thirty-eight pounds of wool grown, we are struck with
the fact, that contiguity to the market is not always sufficient
to produce the supply for that market. And although a " free
trade" interchange of products is sometimes the best of
economy, yet there is a favorite theory lingering in most New

ESSEX SOCIETY. 73

England minds, that you should never buy lohat you can raise,
or conversely, raise everything- you ivant, if it will grow. It
does not follow because a family have fifty pounds of wool,
that they should therefore manufacture it into cloth. The mills
may do this cheaper and better.

Before discussing the question whether sheep husbandry
should have a larger share of attention in Essex county, on
account of the wool, I wish to remark that there is one case at
least, in which it would be a good investment to keep sheep,
without regard to either the wool or flesh. It is where pastures
are bushy and shrubby. No common vegetable will stand be-
fore a flock of sheep kept sufficiently short.* The thousands of
acres of pasture land, so full of blackberry vines, blueberry
bushes, whortleberry bushes, and what not, defying the cow,
and sometimes crowding her out entirely, may be subdued in
a few short years by overstocking with sheep. The sheep need
not be made poor by it, where it is convenient to fence off* a
portion at a time. Put twenty sheep on to a four acre lot for
a month, and then on to another such lot; then back, and so
on, alternately for six months. In three years, all biennials
will disappear, if the leaf be taken off as fast as it grows. If
the sheep come to the barn poor, a gill of corn a day, with
common keep, will bring them up by spring. That sheep
are dealt with somewhat severely, I do not deny ; it is the price
we must pay for the benefit of the pasture. Where the only
object is to destroy weeds and bushes and prepare the pasture
for the cow, a low priced sheep may be employed, and after
the object is accomplished, the sheep may be fattened or sold
as store sheep. But the improved appearance of the pasture
is not all. The sheep enriches land beyond any other animal ;
its manure being stronger and more stimulating.

The popular objection may be, that the close feeding neces-
sary for accomplishing the object, would drive the sheep over
common fences. This may be ; but walls can be polled, and
sheep fettered, a thing often necessary to be done, even where
the food is good. Some pastures have the Canada thistle, and
sheep suffer from this exceedingly. I have known them made
sore with festers over the body, arising from the thistle work-

* Sheep will feed, says a naturalist, upon 400 different vegetables, which no other
animal but the goat will do.

74 ESSEX SOCIETY.

ing itself through the wool, till it reaches the flesh and then
into the flesh. They must then lose flesh from the irritation.
If such pastures could be overstocked, however, with sheep, the
thistle would be overcome, and exterminated easily, and where
land is rocky, it is the only way in which they can be.

Sheep with Cows.

It was the declared opinion of the late lamented Asa T.
Newhall, that in every pasture stocked with cows, as many
sheep as there are now cows may be added to the number
of cows without detriment. The sheep bites closer, and in
many places where the cow cannot. Besides this, the sheep
will feed on the leaves of vines and bushes which the cow
rarely touches. Here there is an opportunity for raising the
stocking yarn and mitten yarn for the family without feeling
it. And no farmer who has tried the yarn of the shops, chop-
ped off" by machinery, can but desire the stockings and mittens
for himself and his sons, made of yarn, carded, spun, and knit
at home, or at least by hand.

Where but few sheep are to be kept, and those with cows,
it is desirable to have cossets. Lambs for this purpose may
be bought cheap out of every large flock, in the spring, which
the dams will not own. Even cossets, however, will stray
away from the cows, if there are many of them, and form a
flock by themselves.*

The Kind of Sheep for our County.

As sheep cannot, probably, be profitable here for the wool
alone, on account of the price of land, it is important that that
kind should be selected which is best for meat, or for meat
and wool combined. The Leicester sheep is one of the largest,
and fattens well. The wool is also in its favor, being long and
soft, and the fleece heavy, and will sell as quick at the factory
as the Merino, if not quite as high. The truth is, our country

* I purchased a fine cosset three years ago, and in the fall, a buck from a flock.
The cosset kept with the cows, and so compelled the ram to do for company. A ewe
from a flock was afterwards added, and even then the cosset could not be induced to
leave the cows, and the three kept together. Next summer, however, when they were
sent to a distance for pasture, and a flock of sheep were in the adjoining pasture, mine
left the cattle and joined them.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 75

imports more coarse wool than fine. The attention of wool-
growers has been directed chiefly to the culture oi fine ivool ;
and although we have, after all, comparatively but little of the
very finest, we have almost as little of the wool suitable for
carpeting. Hence it follows, that our wool intended for sale,
should be of the coarse kinds, and these we find upon the
Leicester sheep. A modified quality may be obtained for
common family use by a mixture with the South Down ; indeed
some extensive wool-growers prefer this for every reason.

The pure Leicesters shear from six to eight pounds a year,
and will always sell at the carpet mills.

Future Sheep Husbandry in our County.

As wool must be in some demand, and good mutton and
lamb in probably great demand, I look forward to a large in-
crease of sheep, as an event not very distant. By the returns
of the marshals, as they were published in the Statistical Ta-
bles for 1845, there were at that time but four thousand eight
hundred and ninety-two sheep in the county,* yielding four-
teen thousand three hundred and fourty-two pounds of wool.
In the same year, there were twenty-one thousand one hun-
dred and sixty-six neat cattle kept in the county. Now if the
sober judgment of the late Mr. Newhall, before quoted, was
correct, there might have been as many sheep pastured, as that
number of neat cattle, without injury to them, viz., twenty-one
thousand one hundred and sixty-six, instead of the four thousand
eight hundred and ninety-two actually kept, and yielding sixty
thousand pounds of wool. At thirty-five cents per pound,
this wool would have been worth ^21,000, instead of $5,019,
the actual value. I have proceeded thus far upon the suppo-
sition that there should be no reduction in the number of neat
cattle kept. But is it clear that the keeping of neat cattle is
always at the greatest profit? Let us compare the keeping of
cows and sheep, for a moment.

A given pasture will carry ten cows. These cows may on
an average yield six pounds of butter a week, for six months,
without meal or other extra keep. At twenty-three cents per
pound this will, for the ten cows, amount in six months to

* In 1837; the number was 5,837, showing a decrease of 9i5 in eight years.

76 ESSEX SOCIETY.

$358. Ten calves, at $4 50 each, amount to $45, the whole
making $403. Estimate the expense of a dairy woman, in-
cluding board, at two and a half dollars per week, or $65 for
the season, and the expense of milking and driving the cows,
at the same rate per week, being $65 more for the season.
Deduct these expenses, from the value of the butter and veal,
and we have $273 for the net income of the cows.

Now for the sheep. The same pasture, by the visual mode
of reckoning, will carry fifty sheep. They will yield three
pounds of wool each. At thirty-five cents per pound, this
will amount to $52 50. I estimate the number of lambs to be
seventy. These at $2 50 each, are worth $175. The wool
and lambs are consequently worth $227 50. The next item
to be considered, is the gain of the flock by fattening. The
sheep must be supposed to have the same advantage from fall
feed that cows usually do. The flock will then be fit for the
butcher in autumn. I will only suppose two fat sheep to be
worth three store sheep. The flock of fifty now becomes
seventy-five. We now have the positive gain of twenty-five
fat sheep. At $2 50 each, these are worth $62 50.

The account now stands thus :

Income of tlie sheep, . j . . $290 00

Income of the cows, .... 273 00

Balance in favor of sheep, . . . $17 00

I have reckoned the lambs at $2 50 each, only. Take the
price offered to Dr. Kittredge, for his lambs this year, viz., four
dollars each, for a standard, and how rapidly does the balance
increase, in favor of sheep.*

Objections on account of Climate considered.

The advocates of Southern sheep husbandry, triumph in the
idea, that a climate like theirs, allowing sheep to run at lai:ge
through the winter,f is the only one where sheep can be raised
to advantage. But is there no substitute for a Southern cli-

* I might have allowed cows to average more butter, and calves to be worth more,
and still leave a balance for the sheep,
t See the " Plough, Loom and Anvil," for Jan. 1851.

ESSEX SOCIETY. 77

mate? " The great subject of shelter," says Ex-Gov. Everett,
"has not been enough considered. Whenever you cut dov^rn
a large piece of woodland, you change the climate of the tract
of land v^hich was shielded by it. When you clothe the sum-
mit of a hill with a thriving plantation, you make a milder
climate for the slope. In short, if any one doubts the extent
to which climate consists in shelter, let him remark the differ-
ence between the north and south side of a high compact wall,
when the snow is going ofl" in the spring ; you wdll have a little
glacier on the north side of the wall, and dandelions in blossom
on the other."

Shelter for Sheep, during five months of the year, will give
the climate they need, even here. But the sheds should be
impervious to rain. A tight roof is far more necessary than
enclosed sides. A cold rain kills more sheep and lambs than
any degree of dry cold.* Almost the whole expense of shed-
ding should be laid out in the roof. The sides indeed should
be such that the sheep may be kept in, but except on the
north and east sides, the work should be such as will admit
the sun freely.

Sheep need to leave the sheds and yards occasionally for
browsing and grazing, but after winter really sets in, this
should be done seldom. When the ground is bare, they will
find enough to keep them picking without satisfying them,
and yet enough to take away the appetite for hay. Such feed
as the sheep find at large, proves laxative to them, and accord-
ingly useful occasionally, but if followed, produces a diarrhoea
which is stopped with difficulty.

Mutton — a Substitute for Beef

It is remarkable, that while in England, mutton is the dish
on all fashionable tables, in our country, there is a general
abhorrence of everything sheepish. American gentlemen, how-
ever, having once tasted the article as it is served up in Lon-
don, rarely fail to order a saddle of it by the next steamer, after
leaving for home themselves. I have seen recent mention of a
quarter of an English Leicester, weighing sixty-five pounds,

* Even in the climate of Ohio, " thousands of sheep died for want of protection
from cold rains in the early part of Winter." See the Wool-Grower, published at
Buffalo.

78 ESSEX SOCIETY.

for sale in the Philadelphia market. We have yet to learn
that mutton, like poultry, should be eaten (so says John Bull)
before it is dead cold, and while it has the tenderness of life,
or it should be kept "until the fibre begins to give way in
the incipient stage of decay." " In summer," John continues,
"mutton should be kept in ice a week, and in winter should
not be cooked under two or three weeks."

No evidence is now required to satisfy the most sceptical,
that our country is capable of producing animals equal in size
to anything in the old world. And in this connection, it may
be stated that Mr. P. A. Brown, of Philadelphia, by a most
ingenious instrument of his own contrivance, has demonstrated
that as fine wool has been grown in five different States of our
country, as the finest ever brought from Saxony by Mr. Fleich-
man, except a single one, and he has one American specimen
finer even than that. It may also be stated, on the same
authority (Mr. Brown's), for the encouragement of those who
wish to be successful in sheep husbandry, that '■'■fine ivool and
fine mutton go together.^'' "Sheep," he continues, "which
produce fine wool, are finer and better in the meat, than those
of coarse fleeces." I do not, however, conceive this circum-
stance to be material to the Essex county wool-grower. The
largest sheep, and those calculated for the meat market, should
be sought chiefly. At the same time, it is an undisputed fact
that coarse, long wool, for carpeting, is in greater demand at
the mills than fine wool, and more of it is imported than of
fine, and this accordingly affords an additional reason for
preferring the Leicester breed.

Old and Sickly Sheep need Care.

When sheep, which arc peculiarly valuable and expensive,
grow sick, they must have an apartment by themselves ;. so,
also, should those that are very old, when they are too valua-
ble to lose. They want better feed, warmer shelter, and close
attention. There should be such a hospital in every establish-
ment of fifty sheep, or even thirty. The well and strong sheep
will overcome and kill them, if left together.

Large flocks should be divided in the sheds. The fewer
that huddle together, the better, even on account of the atmos-

ESSEX SOCIETY. 79

phere of the sheds or pens. Bat the strong ones will rob the
weak ; and at yeaning time, the most serious consequences
would follow the promiscuous herding of a large flock.

Number of Sheep in Essex County, compared with those in the
State, and elsewhere.

The whole number of sheep in Massachusetts, as returned
by the marshals, in 1845, (see statistics, p. 377,) is three hun-
dred and fifty-four thousand nine hundred and forty-three. If
the five millions two hundred and sixty-seven thousand acres in
Massachusetts be supposed to be fed by sheep, there would be
fifteen acres for each sheep. In Maryland, there are twenty-
seven acres to every sheep, and in Vermont, but three. But
in Essex county, there are two hundred and fifty-six thousand
acres. This will give fifty-two acres to each sheep in the
county.

And yet, of the five hundred and fourteen sets of woolen
machinery in Massachusetts, in 1845, one hundred and three of
them are in this county. Here, then, with facilities for manu-
facturing, out of all proportion to other parts of the State, we
grow less of the material to be manufactured, than the average
of the State ! And in another point of view, it would seem
that the shrewd farmers of old Essex have adopted a policy
which requires more severe manual labor, than would be neces-
sary, were more of our land pastured with sheep. It is this —
that Essex cultivates and produces as much Indian corn as
Berkshire, although there are three hundred and fifty-three
thousand acres more in the latter county, than in ours ; show-
ing, that although a hoed crop is the most expensive that can
be raised, yet for some reason, (I think a mistaken one,) it is
preferred to the easy mode of husbandry in old Berkshire.

Land improves by being- Stocked with Sheep.

Even the winter manure of sheep, is richer than that of any
animal, hogs and poultry excepted ; and in summer it becomes
much more so, in effect, by reason of the manner in which it
is deposited. The excrements of the cow and horse, lose most
of their fertilizing properties in the pasture, by their exposure
to the sun and wind. The manure of sheep is deposited in
rounded pellets, which are concealed from the sun by the grass

80 ESSEX SOCIETY.

and weeds, and it easily combines with the soil, while that of
the cow is about useless, unless spread by hand, a thing rarely
done in pastures. The instincts of the sheep also lead it to
seek the highest elevations, in warm weather, for night quar-
ters,— the consequence of which is, that the dry and barren
spots become highly fertili/ced.

But it is the lighter kinds of soil that receive most advan-
tage from the manure of sheep. I insert a few extracts from
a report by a committee of the House of Lords, on the sub-
ject of the wool trade, in 1828, for which I am indebted to
Randall's excellent treatise on Sheep Husbandry in the South.
In answer to the committee's inquiries, the following informa-
tion was obtained :

" Mr. John Ellman, Jr., Sussex. I do not consider it possi-
ble for the light lands upon the Downs to be kept in cultivation,
without flocks. I could not keep the farm I now hold, without
sheep. On the South Downs the wool must be grown, let the
price be what it will."

" Mr. Francis Hale, Altringham, Suffolk. The description
of land 1 occupy, could not be kept in cultivation, without
sheep."

" Mr. Henry King, Chilmark, Wiltshire. The size of my farm
is four thousand acres. I clip annually, about six thousand
five hundred South Down sheep. Such lands as I occupy,
cannot be kept in cultivation without the aid of sheep."

" Lord Napier. If we had not sheep upon our lands, (the
highlands of Scotland,) they would become the habitation of
foxes and snipes, and return to waste."

" C. C. Weston, Esq. It is utterly impossible that the Down
districts can be cultivated to advantage without sheep. We
never fold our Merino or other sheep ; the land is too wet."
P. 71.

These facts show that sheep do enrich the land, whether it
be the "dank or the dry."

Loss of Sheep by Sickness and other causes is trifling:

It is believed that two per cent, will cover all losses by sick-
ness. And we have a great advantage over the south and
west in regard to dogs. Sportsmen hold them so indispensable
there, that legislators are indulgent, and pass few laws against

ESSEX SOCIETY. 81

them. In short, however, whether the sheep dies or is killed,
it has been well remarked, it never dies insolvent. The wool
will cover all the animal costs for rearing and feeding.

Washing- Sheep.

This operation is usually performed about a week before
shearing. It is a severe one to the animal, and attended with
much labor and some danger to the operator. Sheep often
take a chill which they do not survive. If followed by cold,
wet weather, the consequences cannot but be bad. Cannot
the washing be dispensed with ? I believe it can. The exper-
iment has been made, to wash the wool after shearing, and
spare the sheep. The fleece need not be greatly broken ; and
humanity certainly requires that a perfect substitute for so
unnatural an operation would be found in the way just in-
timated.

Diseases of Sheep.

An essay upon sheep would be imperfect, without something
upon their disorders. The flocks in Europe are often devastated
by fevers, both malignant, inflammatory, and typhus ; but they
are scarcely known in the United States.

The same remark applies, says Randall, to inflammation of
the brain, (phrenitis,) of the stomach, (gastritis,) of the bowels,
(enteretis,) bladder, (cystitis,) &c.

Opthalmia, (inflammation of the eye,) is not uncommon in
the United States. Mr. Grove recommended blowing pulver-
ized red chalk into the inflamed eye, and some throw in to-
bacco juice! Mr. Randall was of opinion that pain was
diminished by bathing with tepid water; and also a weak
solution of the sulphate of zinc combined with tincture of
opium.

Pneumonia, or inflammation of the lungs, does sometimes
occur. The sheep grows dull, loses its appetite and cud, or at
least ceases to chew it ; the pulse is at first hard and rapid.
This disease occurs after exposure to sudden cold. Mr.
Spooner recommends early and copious bleeding, repeated
every few hours, if necessary; and a purge of two ounces
Epsom salts, which may be repeated in smaller doses, if the
11

82 ESSEX SOCIETY.

bowels are not sufficiently relaxed. But great caution is to be
observed, lest the animal become too much exhausted.

As many of the internal organs of the sheep resemble the
corresponding organs in the human species, so many of the
diseases are almost identical. Accordingly bronchitis and
catarrh, assail the sheep as well as man. And, as with man,
so and much more so, among sheep, is prevention better than
cure. Too much cannot be said in favor of good, comfortable
and well ventilated shelter, as a preventive of nine-tenths of all
the maladies of the sheep.

Like neat cattle, sheep will sometimes have the hove (so
called,) when put into clover pastures. The stomach becomes
distended with wind, and without relief the animal will die.
The usual remedy is to make an incision with a sharp pointed
knife between the hip and the short ribs, and put in a short
tube, through which the gas passes off. The wound heals
easily.

Diarrhcea is often troublesome, both to sheep and lambs. If
it does not yield to suitable food, such as oats, crusts of wheat
bread, rice boiled in milk ; a dose of castor oil or powdered
rhubarb, may be given, — -after which, as in the human species,
the diet should be light, and sometimes a tonic of brandy, in
case of great prostration, is to be recommended.

Some of the old writers upon sheep husbandry insist, that
sheep are subject to smali pox. Thus Nicholson, author of the
Farmer's Assistant, enumerates this as a disease of sheep,
"being," says he, "blisters which first appear on the flanks,
and spread over the whole body. It is produced by drinking
stagnant water. When the blisters break, anoint them with
sweet oil." It cannot be supposed, of course, however, that
the disease known by that name, among men, is the same as
that described by him as originating in "stagnant water."

De Castro says the Spanish sheep are subject to jaundice —
the flesh and bones turning yellow. He recommends a small
quantity of the flax-leaved daphne guidium. In Great Britain,
sheep are subject to a disease called the rot — it is a disease of
the liver, and is not known among us ; and another disease,
called red ivater, is common in England, also unknown among
us, or of rare occurrence.

I do not claim to have enumerated all the disorders to which

ESSEX SOCIETY. 83

sheep are subject ; but it is believed there is little to fear on
account of disease in any of its forms, as a general thing.

Neither do I claim to have set forth all the reasons which
can be given why sheep husbandry should have a greater share
of the farmer's favor. I should deprecate a sheep fever like
that in the time of the last war with England, when fortunes
were ruined in a day. But we may be, and probably are,
upon the other extreme. One sheep upon every 52 acres only I
at the same time that more than 100 sets of woolen machinery
are within three hours' ride for every man in the county I
15,000 pounds of wool only, grown in Essex, while 2,292,500
pounds are manufactured ! 4,467 sheep only, in a county
where there are 2,650,000 yards of flannel and blanketing man-
ufactured, together with 700,000 yards of woolen cloth, not
specified, and 100,000 pounds of woolen yarn spun, none of
which is made into cloth !* •

But there is much reason to believe that the day is not dis-
tant, when public attention shall be turned to this subject;
and that, avoiding the sheep fever of 1812, and the poultry
fever of a later day, we shall see the sober thought of our
county adding a few thousand a year, till there shall be some
20,000 to 30,000 sheep within our borders, a thing which can
be done without any change that would be thought, for a mo-
ment, violent.

* See Hayward's Gazetteer of Massachusetts, for 184o.

84 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

MIDDLESEX AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

The Fifty-eighth Annual Festival of the yeomanry of
Middlesex was held at Concord, on Wednesday, October 6th.
The day was favorable, and everything conspired to render
the occasion attractive and successful. The exhibition in all
its departments, was the largest and finest which the society,
(the oldest county society in the Commonwealth,) has ever
made ; and in some of them it has never been surpassed in
the State, or perhaps in the country.

The various exercises were such as to occupy fully, and
even to crowd the hours which a single day could furnish ; but
the arrangements were so carefully made, and so exactly exe-
cuted, that everything was accomplished without confusion or
delay. Much trouble frequently arises at cattle shows, as on
other public occasions, from want of punctuality — an hour
lost in the morning, or even a half hour, cannot be recovered
through the entire day. — Much credit is due to the chief mar-
shal, Col. W. E. Faulkner, of Acton, for his thoroughness
and efficiency in this particular. So far as it depended upon
him, everything took place at the time appointed for it, and
was seasonably arranged and provided for. The entries of
stock, and of fruit, vegetables, and manufactured articles, were
made on the day previous in a much greater proportion than
in former years ; which gave more time for their arrangement,
and relieved the officers of the society from much unnecessary
and uncomfortable pressure. By the thoughtfulness and good
sense of the contributors, some part of the advantages, of tak-
ing two days for the exhibition, were thus secured ; and it is
to be hoped that the rules of the society may effectually pro-
vide a like security hereafter.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 85

Farms, &c.

The committee on farms, reclaimed meadows, and fruit
orchards, report as follows :

Four farms, six reclaimed meadows, eight apple, two pear,
and one peach, orchards, were entered for examination. These
your committee have viewed carefully, and they feel them-
selves authorized to make the following remarks. We have
seen enough to satisfy us, not only that " the schoolmaster is
abroad," but also that he is directing public attention, to the
all-important subject of agriculture. An interest in this sub-
ject, amounting almost to enthusiasm, is awakened in many
quarters; and its effects are already showing themselves in the
improved appearances and increased products of the farm and
the orchard. " A thing well begun," it is often said, "is half
finished." If this be true, and we do not doubt it, then many
a hitherto unproductive field will soon repay with smiles, and
also, with a more substantial recompense, the labors of its
owner.

Your committee visited, first, the farm of Mr. L. H. Hil-
dreth, of Westford. Mr. Hildreth's statement (confirmed by
what we ourselves saw,) indicates great results accomplished
by slender means, excepting such as are furnished by intelli-
gence and industry. His farm, by nature rather a rough and
unpromising subject, is rapidly assuming a new face, its wrin-
kles being smoothed, and, if we may judge from the improved
character of his fruit, changing from the sour and repulsive
to the sweet and attractive. We cannot say whether Mr-
Hildreth's preparation for his labors illustrate the " pursuit of
knowledge under difficulties," but we venture to affirm, that
he has found sufficient difficulties in the way of the applica-
tion of it. We commend his statement to notice, because it
shows how much may be accomplished by energy and perse-
verance.

The farm of Mr. Joseph D. Brown, of Concord, claims
particular attention for several reasons. It greatly exceeds, in
territorial extent, what is commonly regarded, among us, as a
full sized farm. But large as it is, no part of it wears the
appearance of neglect or mismanagement. We regret that a
written statement was not furnished by Mr. Brown in season

86 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

for us to incorporate a portion of it with this report. We
must therefore speak in general terms of his cornfield, exceed-
ing twenty acres, of his broad reclaimed meadows, of his
ploughed bogs, with their immensely broad furrows, seemingly
the work of a team of elephants ; of his almost interminable
lines of drains, open and covered ; of his stone walls, his
beautiful orchard ; his barns and barn cellars, all betokening a
head to plan and a hand to execute, the most bold and intri-
cate agricultural works. In the manner of carrying on his
farm, Mr. Brown wovild be, in most respects, a safe model.
Systematically, thoroughly, quietly ; these seem to be the
talismanic words. In one particular, however, we must take
the liberty to advise an improvement, and that is, the keeping
of an exact written account of the expenditures and proceeds of
the farm. To Mr. Brown it may be attended with no special
danger to neglect this ; but to most men it would be a fatal
oversight. Much as we reverence the human intellect, we
doubt whether " one small head " should be required to " car-
ry" all the complicate accounts of a large farm.

In regard to reclaimed meadows, your committee would
remark, that what has passed under their observation, author-
izes them to say, that with the experiments in reclaiming
swamps, began a new era in agriculture. Lands, regarded as
comparatively worthless ever since the settlement of the coun-
try, are now found to be of the very highest value. Though
the labor and expense of reclaiming these tracts may at first
appear formidable and discouraging, still it has invariably been
found, that no outlay has proved a better investment, and no
labor been better rewarded. When we consider what has
already been accomplished in this way, and what immense
tracts of unreclaimed meadow still invite the efforts of the
farmer, we feel that there are among us unwrought mines,
which will by and by prove more productive than those, of
California.

The Middlesex Agricultural Society, in offering a premium
for the best conducted experiment on swamp meadow land,
annexed the condition that the experiment should extend over
a period of three years. This condition excludes, for the pre-
sent, several applicants whose lands we have visited. Of them,
as well as the others, we can speak in terms of approbation.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 87

With or without a premium, we can conceive of his feeling
himself abundantly recompensed, who can stand upon what
was once a quaking bog, or an impenetrable swamp, and see
the surface of the earth covered with sweet grasses, and en-
amelled with flowers. It is no figure of speech when we say
of such a man, that flowers spring up beneath his feet. The
experiment of John F. Rice, of Marlboro', evinced much skill
and perseverance. His plans are still in progress, and we have
no doubt when accomplished, they will prove alike praise-
worthy and profitable. Wm. Brown, of Concord, has brought
his experiments more nearly to a successful termination. His
drains have been distributed with excellent judgment, and his
meadows are now repaying him an hundred fold the care be-
stowed upon them.

In regard to apple orchards, your committee have a word of
caution as well as of praise to utter. To most farmers the
training of fruit trees, is a matter even less understood than the
scientific management of a farm. But while an error in farm-
ing may be corrected at any time, a mistake in the early stages
of the growth of an orchard cannot, perhaps, ever be corrected.
The oft quoted line of the poet, " Just as the twig is bent, the
tree 's inclined," is better understood of education, than of
orchard growing. Your committee have visited orchards of
which great care had evidently been taken, so far as keeping
the earth in good order was concerned. The growth of new
wood was rapid and healthy ; but it seemed to have escaped
the notice of the owner, that great care was requisite to shape
the head of the tree in such a manner that its future growth
should be favorable to the bearing and ripening of fruit. In
several instances, we saw that great attention had been given
to this point, especially in the beautiful orchards of Mr. Shel-
don, in Wilmington, and of Mr. Buckminster, in Framingham.
Nor do we think that we over-estimate the importance of this
matter. Whoever wishes to have a beautiful and productive
orchard must begin at the beginning, and make himself familiar
with that method of pruning the young tree, which shall ensure
its full grown symmetry. Let this be neglected when the
orchard is young, and no subsequent treatment can atone for
the oversight. In connection with this subject your committee
had it in view to speak of the necessity of exercising great

88 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

discretion in regard to the proper proportion of summer and
winter fruit in an orchard, and likewise, in regard to the appli-
cation of alkaline washes to trees. Upon these points, the
press will undoubtedly furnish the requisite cautions.

In regard to pear and peach orchards, your committee's labors
were not burdensome. Only two collections of pear trees
were offered for examination. Your committee, however,
availed themselves of opportunities to examine several gardens
abounding in this delicious fruit, in the eastern part of the
county ; and it is to us a matter of surprise, that it is not more
extensively cultivated.

In concluding their report, the committee would add one or
two remarks. And in the first place, wherever we have been
we have had conclusive evidence of the good that has been
effected (and that is still in progress), by the interchange of
views, opinions, and information among farmers. It is no
longer true, that an old newspaper, or a last year's almanac, is
all the reading matter that a majority of farmers desire.
They have become a reading and reflecting class of men ; and
the consequence is, they have settled it in their own minds what
is to be undertaken, and how it is to be accomplished. The
press has shown itself to be in this, as in all other departments
of industrial life, a mighty engine. Meetings of farmers for
the free discussion of topics connected with their vocation, —
celebrations and festivals, of a more or less extensive character,
these and other similar means have operated, and are still
active, to rouse, guide, and elevate the agricultural classes.
And this is the great want of those classes. Farming may be
either of two things. It may be all dirt and drudgery — and
in too many cases it has actually been so — or it may be
first and foremost as a health-affording, mind-awakening, and
so, a soul and body-saving occupation. " Mind among the
Spindles," has already wrought a glorious revolution. Mind
among the Furrows, is effecting one equally noble. " God
speed the plough," and let all the people say, " Amen."

Charles Babbidge,
Samuel Chandler,
Simon Brown,

Committee.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 89

Premiums on Farms.

T. D. Brown, Concord, 1st premium, . . ^25 00

L. H. Hildreth, Westford, 2d do. . . 15 00

Abner B. Lane, 3d do. . . 12 00

Premiums on Reclaimed Meadows.
William Brown, Concord, .... $12 00

Premiums on Fruit Orchards.

H. Sheldon, Wilmington, best apple orchard, . . $12 00

J. O. Freeman, Framingham, 2d do. . . 10 00

W. D. Harris, North Woburn, 3d do. . .6 00

J. T. Buckingham, Cambridge, best pear trees, . 15 00

Questions to applicants for Premiums on Farms.

In order to obtain as full information as possible from those
applying for premiums on farms, the committee propounded
the following questions :

1. Of how many acres did your farm consist in 1848 ?

2. What was the condition of the land at that time, in a
good state of cultivation, or otherwise ?

3. What proportion of it was in tillage, pasture, and wood ?

4. What amount of hay cut in 1848 and in 1852 ?

5. What grain do you raise ?

6. What roots do you raise, and what value do you place
upon them as food for stock ?

7. At what time do you seed down grass land, spring or fall,
and at about what date ; kind and quantity of seed, and with
what grain best?

8. At what time do you apply top-dressing to grass land,
and why at that particular time ?

9. How do you apply manure, composted or not ; ploughed
under or on the surface, and what quantity per acre ?

10. Do you use guano, how, and with what results ?

11. The same of plaster and lime ?

12. What course do you pursue in draining — open or under-
drains, use tiles, stones, or brush ?

90 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

13. What depth do you commonly plough — do you use the
subsoil plough, and think it advantageous or not ?

14. Have you reclaimed bog meadow, and how ?

15. How much, and what live stock do you keep, and what
breeds ?

16. Do you employ oxen or horses, and which do you con-
sider best?

17. How much butter, cheese, or milk, do you produce ?

18. What fruits do you raise ?

19. What do you consider the cheapest fences?

20. Do you consider the careful cultivation of a garden es-
sential on a farm.

21. Is there profit in raising swine ?

22. What extent of orcharding have you, apple, pear, peach,
or plum ?

23. W^hat distance from each other do you set your trees ?

24. Do you wash them, and if so, what with ?

25. Do you keep them under cultivation, and with what
crops?

26. Do you think old orchards may be new topped and cul-
tivated with profit ?

27. Do you keep a journal of your farm operations?

Joseph D. BrowrCs Statement.

The farm I ofler for premium came into my possession in
1845, by my paying certain debts and supporting my father
and mother while they live. The debts and distribution to
my brothers amounted to about five thousand dollars. There
were about one hundred and fifty acres of land, and the valu-
ation on the books of the assessors at the time, was near
seven thousand dollars. The buildings were not very good
and only one barn on the place. Since thattime, 1 have built
a barn one hundred feet long and forty feet wide, at an expense
of $1,500, and repaired and altered the house at a co^t of
$2,300, beside a very considerable expense in altering and re-
pairing the out-buildings.

The fences on the farm were mostly stone wall, old and
poor, being crooked and thrown out of place by frosts ; these
had to be reset. I have built over seven hundred rods of wall,

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 9l

and made more than a thousand rods of blind ditch. When I
took the place, there were about a hundred apple trees, which
had been set three years, and about as many old apple trees,
which I have since grafted.

In addition to the original farm I have since purchased thirty
acres of land that cost ^500. I have reclaimed about thirty-
five acres of stony brush land, at an expense of $50 an acre.
I have also reclaimed about ten acres of meadow that has al-
ready returned expenses. This fall I have ploughed ten acres
more, which I shall gravel the coming winter and prepare for
summer tillage.

In 1850, I had on the farm four men eight months ; three men
four months ; raised three hundred bushels corn, and planted
six acres of potatoes which all rotted ; raised two hundred
bushels flat turnips, wintered sixty -five head of cattle and three
horses. Sold $2,000 worth of milk. In 1851, I had about
the same amount of help, and the products of the farm were
much the same. In 1852 I had six men seven months, and
four men five months ; raised twelve hundred bushels of corn,
six hundred of potatoes, nine hundred of carrots, four hundred
of ruta-bagas, four hundred of beets, two hundred flat turnip,
and sold $2,200 worth of milk.

Replies of Joseph D. Brown, to inquiries propounded by the
committee on farms. See page 89.

1. 150 acres, exclusive of woodland.

2. A large portion of it impoverished.

3. Something more than one-half.

4. 70 tons ; in 1850, 120 tons ; in 1853, 85 tons, a light crop.

5. Mostly corn ; cut oats and millet for fodder.

6. Flat turnip, ruta-baga, and carrots ; believe them profita-
ble as feed for stock.

7. On corn land in the spring, on grass land in August; 8
quarts herds-grass, 1 bushel redtop, and 5 pounds clover, mix-
ed and sowed together.

8. In October, because the fall rains drench and carry the
fertilizing qualities down.

9. Composted, and ploughed under, 25 to 40 loads, accord-
ing to the soil.

10. Only once ; think it was favorable on corn.

92 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

11. Do not use plaster or lime.

12. Underdrains ; fill them with stones and leave them so
as to plough a deep furrow over them.

13. Eight to twelve inches, according to circumstances.

14. Yes; always by ploughing if possible; roll and seed.

15. Usually, 4 oxen, 50 cows, 3 horses, 4 swine ; mostly na-
tive stock.

16. Oxen ; on smooth and easy land I prefer horses.

17. No butter or cheese ; sell $2,000 worth of milk at the
house.

18. "Winter apples.

19. Stone walls, where stone is found on the farm.

20. I do.

21. I think there is, where proper conveniences are had for
tending them.

22. About six acres of apple orchard in all, three acres to-
gether, the rest scattering, one-fourth acre pears.

23. Thirty-two feet.

24. Yes ; with potash, clay, and manure.

25. Yes ; with a variety of crops, corn, roots, and rye.

26. I do, if the turnips are sound.

27. I do not.
Concord, 1852.

Abner B. Lane's Statement.

Abner B. Lane's replies to questions proposed. See page
89.

1. 100 acres.

2. In a very poor condition.

3. 22 acres in meadow, 5 in English, 4 under the plough.

4. 5 tons English, 12 meadow, in 1850 ; 20 tons English
and 12 of meadow, in 1852.

5. Rye and oats.

6. Carrots, beets, and turnips, and I consider them valuable
for stock.

7. Seed in September, with twelve quarts herds-grass and
one bushel of redtop.

8. In October, (no reason why given.)

9. Spread and in the hill.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 93

10. Do not use guano.

11. Use both lime and plaster with good results.

12.

13. Average depth seven inches, have not used the subsoil
plough.

14.

15. Native breed ; ten cattle and two horses.

16. Use both oxen and horses ; have not decided which
would be best alone.

17. Sell $500 worth of milk.

18. Apples.

19. Stone wall, where stones are plenty.

20. Certainly, to raise everything for my own use, and
more if a market is near.

21. There is this year; some years there is not.

22. Between three and four acres of apple trees, if they
stood together.

23. Thirty feet.

24. Weak potash water and soap suds.

25. Most of the time under cultivation.

26. If the trunk is sound it is profitable to do so.

27. I do not. *

My help this year has been one hired man, hoeing and hay-
ing, $25 ; and myself and boy. Last year I paid out $40 for
help. My receipts this year will be, for milk, $500 ; for pork,
^25] for eggs, $40; for poultry, $18; for apples, $20; for
cranberries, $30; for potatoes, $125; making $758.

Abner B. Lane.

L. H. Ilildretli's Statement.

The farm which I now own, I bought in the spring of 1843.
It contains about eighty-five acres, including twenty of wood-
land and ten of poor brook meadow. The place had been
rented for a number of years prior to my purchase, and the
hay carried off, so that when I moved on to the farm, I found
it much run out, and the buildings and fences very much out
of repair.

I paid $4,337, and in order to pay for it, I mortgaged it for
$4,100, paying only $237, all that I had, after buying my stock.

M MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

The land is good fruit land, and my intention has been to
make the raising of fruit for sale my chief business.

The first winter I kept eight cows and a horse. They con-
sumed all the hay that I cut on the place. For the last two
or three winters I have kept on an average, equal to nineteen
or twenty cows, and sold but little hay.

I have laid from 125 to 150 rods of stone wall, and grafted
nearly all my old apple trees with valuable fruit. I have set
out (three and four years ago) about 225 apple trees, 175 peach
trees, 48 pear trees, 25 Isabella grape vines, 25 to 30 cherry
trees, 15 apricot trees, and smaller fruits, such as strawberries,
currants, &c.

I am now employed in digging drains in my wet grounds,
and filling them wdth the small stones from the surface of my
ploughed lands, preferring this way of getting rid of them, to
putting them into walls. I have dug and filled, or am filling,
about sixty-five or seventy rods this fall, some portion of them
five feet w^ide, others two or three.

These things, with my limited means, have been the work
of time. I have not done as I would, but have been obliged
to do as I could. With a young family dependent upon me,
unable to e^n their living, but, thank God, almost always able
to eat their share ; with my interest money ($250 a year) to
make out, and my farm to improve, I have so far weathered
the storm, with a head wind, and am a little nearer the harbor
than I was when I commenced the voyage. I have paid up
about $600 on the mortgage, and laid out nearly $2,000 in
permanent improvements on my buildings and farm. I now
cut more than twice as many tons of English hay as I did
when I came on the farm. Many of the trees are beginning
to rejDay me for my labor upon them.

In regard to the queries put me, I will answer in course.

1. Of how many acres did your farm consi^ in 1848 ?
About eighty-five acres.

2. What was the condition of the land at that time, m a
good state of cultivation, or otherwise ?

I had been gradually bringing it into a better state than
when I bought in 1843, as my limited means \vould allow.
8. What proportion of it was in tillage, pasture, and w^ood?
I should think twenty-five acres in English mowing, of

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 95

which I plant with corn and potatoes, or sow with the small
grains, about six or eight acres, annually ; about twenty acres
of pasture land ; the same number of acres of woodland ; the
remainder meadow.

4. What amount of hay cut in 1848 and in 1852?

My main crop of English hay was much less in 1852 than
in 1848. I had a small piece of reclaimed meadow on which
the hay was much better this year than it was four years
ago.

5. What grain do you raise ?

For a hoed crop, corn ; of small grains, I find I can make it
much more profitable to raise oats than rye or barley; wheat
I have never yet tried, but jiropose to do so on about an acre
this fall.

6. What roots do you raise, and what value do yea place
upon them as food for stock ?

Carrots I have raised to some extent, and consider them
valuable for horses, oxen, or cows, adding, I believe, however,*
more to the quality than to the quantity of milk in the last
named case. Fiat turnips, which I also raise to some extent,
(sown broadcast through my cornfields,) I think on the con-
trary, increase the quantity of milk, when fed to cows, without
improving its richness. Potatoes I raise for my own con-
sumption, and to a greater or less extent for market.

7. At what time do you seed down grass land, spring or
fall, and at about what date ; kind and quantity of seed, and
with what grain best?

I prefer, from trials which I have made at both seasons, to
sow my land with grass seed in the spring, at the same time
with my oats. My experience has convinced me that unless
the land is very rich, the first crop of grass is better when
seeded in May than in August. I sow ten quarts of herds-
grass, three pecks of redtop, and more or less clover seed to
the acre, as I think the land requires. In answer to the last
clause of the question I would say, that I should prefer to
sow my grass seed with rye, were my land suitable to produce
that crop, which it is not. I can raise four bushels of oats
easier than one of rye.

8. At what time do you apply top-dressing to grass land,
and why at that particular time ?

96 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

In the fall, and spread it just before a rain.

9. How do you apply manure, composted, or not ; ploughed
under or on the surface, and what quantity per acre?

I compost my manure in my barn cellar, with peat and
wash from the road side, soil from beside the walls, &;c. On
dry land I plough It in ; on moist land I spread after plough-
ing, and harrow thoroughly. I made last year 297 loads. My
carts hold thirty bushels.

10. Do you use guano, how, and with what results ?

1 have used considerable guano mixed with charcoal dust,
or plaster. Charcoal dust is the best absorbent of ammonia.
I consider guano a very valuable stimulant to start corn, or as
a top-dressing for grass land.

11. The same of plaster and lime ?

Plaster I use annually, sowing it on my pastures, from one
to three bushels to the acre ; also putting it on my potatoes, a
small quantity to each hill at the time of planting, or immedi-
ately after they come up. I have but little land on which lime
would work favorably.

12. Whatcourse do you pursue in draining — open,or under-
drains, use tiles, stones, or brush ?

An answer to this qustion will be found in the body of my
statement.

13. What depth do you commonly plough ; do you use the
subsoil plough, and think it advantageous or not ?

I have been gradually deepening my soil, and now run my
surface plough down from eight to ten inches, according to
the land I am working. When I came upon my farm, the
land had been skinned, emphatically, both in being ploughed
and cropped. I think that the plough of the tenant, (which I
bought of him for fifty cents, on his leaving, and dear at that,)
had not run more than three or four inches deep in the time
that he carried on the farm. I have had a subsoil plough for
the last three years, and consider its use of great advantage to
the farmer, particularly is the benefit derived from it perceiyed
in a summer like the past.

14. Have you reclaimed bog meadow, and how ?

I have one small piece (about an acre) of bog meadow re-
claimed. My course was to take out the bushes, — bunches
of which as high as my head were scattered thickly over it, —

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 97

put them and the roots in piles till dry, and then burn them ;
after spreading the ashes, I ploughed and planted the piece
with potatoes for two years, then laid it down with oats, giving
it a good coat of manure. My grass has been good constant-
ly, since. I shall give it a top-dressing this fall. It has been
reclaimed five years.

15. How much, and what live stock do you keep, and what
breeds ?

An answer, in part, to this question will be found in the
preceding statement. In the summer I generally keep two
horses, one pair of oxen and eight cows.

16. Do you employ oxen or horses, and which do you con-
sider best ?

I keep both, for w^ork ; should prefer horses for nearly all
kinds of farm work on suitable land.

17. .

18. What fruits do you raise ?

I sold last year 467 barrels of apples, which I think averaged
me, $1 75 per barrel. My peach orchard is young, and com-
menced bearing last year. This year the peaches were entirely
cut off by the cold weather of last winter. I cannot state with
accuracy the number of bushels of pears I sold, I should
think ten or fifteen. Of the smaller fruits, strawberries, grapes,
currants, and gooseberries, I have a moderate supply of some,
and a large amount for sale of other kinds. I consider, from
my limited experience, that the luxuries of life pay the laborer
better for his work than the necessaries.

19. What do you consider the cheapest fences ?
With me, stone wall.

20. Do you consider the careful cultivation of a garden es-
sential on a farm ?

This is a difficult question to answer, as I have done less in
that way than I should.

12. Is there profit in raising swine ?

I think no stock on a farm will pay a better profit, if pigs
from the best breeds are purchased, and attended to with care.

22. What extent of orcharding have you, apple, pear, peach,
or plum ?

23. What distance from each other do you set your trees ?

24. Do you wash them, and if so, what with ?

98 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

25. Do you keep them under cultivation, and with what
crops ?

The first of these questions is answered in my statement,
80 far as young trees are concerned. I have beside, of large
apple trees, which have been grafted with valuable fruit since
I bought my farm, I should think from 175 to 200, part of
which have made good heads and many of which have been
grafted but one, two or three years. The orchards that I have
set out, I have put two rods apart each way. I wash them
with potash water, or with whale oil soap suds and ashes. In
answer to the last question I would say that they are so much
scattered that it is nearly impossible for me to keep the land
under the whole in cultivation. I make it a point however, to
plough each piece frequently, and keep it up as long as I can,
manuring liberally.

26. Do you think old orchards may be new topped and cul-
tivated with profit ?

I do, as I have worked my old trees over, I am confident,
with advantage.

27. Do you keep a journal of your farm operations ?

I do ; a book convenient to my hand, which I can take up
at any moment, to make record of anything I wish.

In answering your questions I have compressed as much as
possible, and still have covered much more paper than I meant
to have done.

I would say farther, that the help which I hire consists of
one young man, who has been with me nine years, and to
whom I pay $12 per month, for 7| months, . . $90 00

One girl, at $1 per week, . . , . 52 00

One man one month, ditching, . . . 14 00

$156 00
Per contra ; my extra wages, apart from the farm, . 300 00

Orchards.

Henry Sheldon's Statement.

My first orchard contains about four acres of land, and was
purchased in the spring of 1845. The soil is loamy, with

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 99

gravelly subsoil. It was pasture land, quite rocky, and con-
siderable bushy at the time. It contains 152 trees, 50 of which
were set out the last part of April of the same year, the re-
mainder the following spring. The trees are all Baldwins,
from one to two years' growth from the bud when set. Before
setting the trees, I pared all the roots smooth with a knife,
where they had been injured in taking up. I set them the
same depth as they formerly grew in the nursery, being careful
to place the roots in their natural position. In the sward land
I placed soil from an old corn field among the roots, pressing
it in firmly to prevent the tree from leaning. I planted the
ground with potatoes, in 1845 and 1846. In the spring of
1847 it was sowed with oats and the crop ploughed in in June.
In August it was sowed down to grass, and has remained so
ever since, not allowing the grass to grow within four feet of
the tree. I have hoed around them three or four times every
year. At the time it was planted it was manured with
slaughter-house manure, about three cords to the acre ; since
which time, there has been no manure used on the field until
the first of last winter, and then two wheelbarrow loads of
stable manure were put to each tree, heaping it up around the
tree. In the spring I spread the same and hoed it in, to the
distance of five feet around the tree.

My second orchard consists of about one and one-fourth
acres of land of deep, rich soil ; a part of it is gravelly subsoil,
and a part of a cold, sandy nature. It contains 86 trees. A
part of them were set in the spring of 1848, and the remainder
in the spring of 1849. In the cold ground, I removed the soil,
where the trees were to be set, for the space of about eight
feet, and filled with clayey gravel and small stones ; setting
the roots of the trees near the surface of the ground. The trees
are of various kinds : Baldwin, Maiden's Blush, May Queen,
Old Hundred, Red Astrachan, Gravenstein, Millerite, Gilli-
flower, Sopsovine, Bartlett, Sudbury, and Summer Sweetings,
&c. The land has been cultivated every year, and planted
with potatoes till this season, when I planted it with corn.

The trees in the first orchard are set two rods apart each
way ; in the second, one and one-half rods. I have washed
them once a year, in May, with strong soap suds. My mode
of trimming is, when the tree is high enough, to cut off the

100 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

main branch, and leave three or more to form the tree. I gen-
erally leave three. When the trees are young, the little spurs
that start out should be left on, for the purpose of making the
body of the tree stout, so that it will not bend over. Any
shoots that are starting out to make large limbs where they
are not needed, should be cut off. In regard to borers, I have
never as yet discovered one about the trees. Wherever I have
found the caterpillar eggs, I have taken them off and burnt
them. If any escaped my observation, until hatched, I have
taken them off' and destroyed them. All other worms have
shared the same fate.

Wilmington, Sept. 20, 1852.

James O. Freeman^s Statement.

Sirs, — The orchard I offer for premium, contains 306 apple
trees : 64 set in the spring of 1844 ; 50 in the spring of 1846 ;
57 in the spring of 1847; 60 in the spring of 1848; 75 in the
spring of 1852.

The land on which the trees are set, in every instance, (ex-
cept those set this present season,) has been ploughed the fall
before setting, it being sward land. I have dug my holes for
the trees, about two and one-half or three feet deep, and three
or three and one-half feet wide, filling the bottom part of the
hole with the sods that came from the top of the hole, and a
small quantity of peat mud, say one or two bushels, and filling
around the roots with loam from the top of the ground. In
the fall, after the trees were set, I applied about a bushel of
compost manure, well filled with ashes, around each tree. You
will understand that this last application was made the year
the trees were set, making only once for each lot of trees. I
have practised washing my trees with potash water, every year
but one since they were set, that year did not apply anything.
I cannot say in what proportion I make it, for I never weigh
it or measure the quantity of water. I always put my potasji
in a vessel, and pour some water to it, letting it dissolve as it
pleases. I then take some of the liquid and add a quantity
more of water to it, (judging of its strength by taste,) and with
a sponge apply it to the trees. I make it very weak for the
trees that have been set only a few months. I wash my trees

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 101

in July, trim them in April or May, as best suits my conve-
nience. Think May is preferable.

The soil in which the trees are growing is a sandy loam,
with some stone about two feet or more below the surface. I
manure about 30 or 35 cart loads to the acre, plough it in
about four or five inches deep. This year I manured in the
hill. Have planted corn the first year of setting the trees, and
potatoes the next. Have harvested one year, from one acre of
the orchard piece, 127 bushel baskets of sound ears of corn.
" We people w^ho measure our corn by the bushel and land by
the acre, and not by the produce of one hill, and then make a
mathematical calculation, call this quantity a good yield." I
have also taken from the piece, on different parts of it, two
crops of clover, one of barley, one of rye, two of oats, and one
of buckwheat.

The manure is taken out of the yard in the spring. Hogs
run in the cow yard. Put in the yard, peat, mud, loam, po-
tatoe vines, leaves, &c. Some years, have used leached ashes
mixed with the manure.

Have not been troubled with borers, or other worms, to
speak of.

On some of the trees set in 1844, the yield this season is
over two barrels on a tree, of very fine apples, and many trees
with a less quantity. Some of those that were set in 1848,
and only one year old from the bud at the time of setting, are
bearing.

My principal variety is the Baldwin. In the low ground
there are some Greenings. I have a few other varieties, the
names of which I have forgotten at this time.

Framingham, Sept. 15, 1852.

William B. Harris's Statement.

Gentlemen, — My trees were set in the spring of 1844, and
were quite small. The soil is rocky, although a part of it is
loamy, as you observed at your examination. There are 236
trees, which were all set out at first, but a few died, say half a
dozen, which I have replaced from year to year.

The first summer after they were set, I sowed the land
(there is six acres) with rye, which I noticed did the trees no

102 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

good. After the rye was removed in the fall, I ploughed one-
half (three acres) and laid it down to grass. In the summer
of 1845, I planted the other three acres, dunging in the hill,
and spreading a little manure. I noticed the trees where the
grass was, in the fall, were much behind those where the
ground was planted. Besides, they were covered with innu-
merable quantities of lice, which I at once attributed to the
grass being among them, while the rest had no lice of any
consequence upon them. The next year I ploughed and
planted the whole six acres, which I have continued to do
every year since, spreading my manure, and dunging in the
hill, but not doing both in one year. I have whitewashed the
trees once, the year after so many lice gathered upon the half,
and I thought it had a tendency somewhat to remove them.
I have put a little muck around the trunks of the trees, and
once put some oyster shells about them. I have pruned the
trees every year till the present, which I deferred unintention-
ally. I usually prune in June. I have applied no " fancy
work" to the orchard, but have simply kept the ground
ploughed, and shall continue to do so. My motto is, " To
keep land ploughed where young trees are." I can now see a
difference between the trees where the grass was and the other
half.

My treatment in regard to insects is simple. I have never
been troubled with borers and the like. In the spring I have
removed all the caterpillars that I could find, but have in no
other way been troubled with any kind of insects. In fact, I
have never tried any experiment, nor done any "fancy work,"
in any way, shape, or manner.

North Woburn, Sept. 1852.

Pear Orchards. ,

Joseph T. Buckingham^ Statement.

Gentlemen, — At your request, I send you a statement con-
cerning the pears, which you saw yesterday in my garden, —
as follows : —

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 103

I have measured the square on the lower part of the garden,
which you first visited, and find it to be fifty-two feet by forty-
two, or about two thousand two hundred square feet. On this
plat is one large apple tree, two peach trees, two plums, one
cherry tree, and twenty-one pears. Of the pears there are 2
Duchesse d'Angouleme, 2 Louise Bonne de Jersey, 5 Seckles
(rather small), 3 Bartletts, 1 Beurre Royal, 1 Beza de la Motte,
1 Passe Colmar, 4 whose names are lost, and two smaller ones,
bought at auction, whose names I never knew. These last
have never borne fruit. Of the four others, unknown, or at
least two of them, the fruit you tasted, and approved. The
other two bore early and excellent fruit, and all bore luxuriant-
ly. All these trees, except one, are on quince stocks, and
were put out, in part, six years ago last spring, and the other
part seven years ago this autumn. This portion of my garden,
when I bought it, in 1833, was wet and mirey, with a few al-
ders, a few bogs and some stones. After clearing off the stones
and bushes it was covered with two or three loads of sand,
ploughed and planted with potatoes, for two or three years,
and afterwards with other garden vegetables. Several peach
trees were placed in it, which produced most luxuriant foliage,
but very little fruit. These were removed and their place sup-
plied with pears. No manure has been given to this piece of
ground, but such as has been made of the surplus vegetation,
thrown into a pen where one pig has been kept, and mixed in
the spring with the contents of the vault, and occasionally a
small quantity of coal ashes — anthracite. The spaces between
the trees, as you may have observed, are filled up with rasp-
berries and rhubarb. The soil, which lies on a strong founda-
tion of clay, is nearly two feet in depth.

The pear trees on the southerly side of the garden, forty-
three in number, have been planted at various times, — all but
three or four within seven years, and most of them within five.
Four of them are Duchesse d' Angoiileme, 4 Louise Bonne, 2
Maria Louise, 2 Vickar of Winkfield, 2 Flemish Beauty, 3
Bergamot, 2 Chaumontelle, 2 Beurre Diel, 1 Belle et Bonne,
3 Bartletts, 1 Summer Franc Real, 1 Madeleine, 1 Van Mons
Leon le Clerc, 1 Hacon's Incomparable, 1 Brown Beurre, 1
Napoleon, and of the others, the names I have lost. This
strip of ground is 220 feet long by 25 in width ; and on it,

104 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

beside the pear trees above mentioned, there are two very
large and four smaller cherry trees, 2 large apple trees, 1 large
and four smaller peaches, 1 Siberian crab, 11 quinces — rose
bushes and other flowering shrubs and plants, too numerous
to mention. Some eight or ten pear trees are scattered in
other parts of the garden, chiefly in a bearing state. The soil
in the southerly part of the garden is similar to that before
described, except that it was not quite so wet originally. All
of it lies on a bed of clay, and has had but little manure. It
is fourteen years since I kept a cow, eight years since I kept a
horse. Last November, I bought two small loads of horse
manure, which was used on a small spot appropriated to
beans, beets, carrots, &c. My only reliable source of manure,
is the vault, the pig pen, the waste from the kitchen, and the
weeds. It may not be entirely out of place, to say here, that
the emptying of a vault is not quite so offensive as some sup-
pose, if the proper precaution should be taken. Twenty-four
hours before you begin the work of emptying, dissolve twenty
or thirty pounds of copperas (sulphate of iron) in the necessary
quantity of water, and throw it into the vault, and the offensive
odor will be hardly perceptible.

I have never kept a precise account of the products of my
fruit trees, for I have not cultivated them for the market, —
having no taste or faculty for trading. My own family are
supplied bountifully, and more than we use is presented to
friends and neighbors, and thence is derived the principal com-
pensation for the labor of cultivation. If the whole product of
my little garden had been sold this year, at prices usually ob-
tained for raspberries, currants, and pears, I think it would
have amounted, at least, to one hundred dollars. The whole
extent of my estate is 220 feet by 150 feet 6 inches, making a
little more than 33,000 square feet. Nearly, if not quite, half
is occupied by the house, barn, and other 'out buildings,
clothes yard, carriage way, and other gravel walks. I could
add many other remarks to show how much can be obtained
from a small piece of ground ; but enough has already been
said to answer the purpose of the committee, to whom are re-
spectfully tendered the true regards of their friend and servant.

Cambridge, Sept. 16, 1852.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 105

Reclaimed Meadows.
William Brown's Statement.

Gentlemen, — The piece of meadow to which I invite your
attention, contains about four acres. It was drained in 1839,
by ditching around the whole piece, and one ditch through the
centre. I stoned and covered nearly all the ditches, and then
ploughed by means of ropes and pulleys, it still being too soft
to admit the team upon it. Potatoes were then planted, dug
early, and the ground seeded down with herds-grass and red-
top. I then applied about ten loads of manure mixed with
forty loads of sand. After this I got four crops of hay of about
two tons to the acre, and then ploughed and cultivated the
same as I do any of my upland.

I have now about one acre planted with potatoes, which
looks well. Before I drained this land I considered it worth
very little, if anything; now it is the best land I have.

Length of covered ditches, 127 rods. Cost of digging, ston-
ing and covering, $1 per rod. Length of ditches not covered,
145 rods. Cost of digging, twenty-five cents per rod.

Concord, Aug. 1852.

Apples and Pears.

The committee on apples and pears, report that the exhibi-
tion of these fruits, in variety, beauty and excellence of the
specimens far exceeds that of any previous years in this county.
Your committee, though somewhat familiar with exhibitions
in this department, indifferent counties in this Commonwealth,
have never witnessed any that, in the perfection of the speci-
mens, and in the completeness of the varieties, surpassed that
made this day.

The committee have found great difficulty in awarding tiie
first premium offered by this society. They have diligently
employed all the time allowed them, for the performance of
the duty assigned them, in making their award.

The exhibition of the fruits to-day, from nearly one hun-
14

106 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

dred contributors, contains nearly all the standard and well-
tested varieties of apples and of pears. In the department of
pears, almost all the late varieties that have been fruited in
this country were in exhibition.

It is undoubtedly true that the cultivation of the apple and
the pear is profitable or not, according to the care and skill
employed therein. Experience has taught those who have
tried the cultivation of either kind, that the following method,
carefully executed, will, with great uniformity, result in suc-
cess.

In preparing the ground, trench wide and deep the hole that
is to receive the tree. Before setting the tree, the hole should
be partly filled with well-rotted manure. This last point must
be carefully attended to, as new, unprepared manure, brought
near the roots of the young tree would almost certainly destroy
it. It is a matter of the first importance in setting trees, that
they should not be set in the earth deeper than they stood in
the nursery. And if this direction be not observed, there will
certainly be a failure in having a healthy tree. Very exact
gardeners deem it important that the tree shall' stand with
the same aspect in the orchard, that it had in the nursery. In
planting an orchard, be careful that the trees transplanted are
thrifty and carefully removed ; and if any root be bruised in
taking up the tree, the same should be nicely trimmed, and
the bruised part cut off by a sharp knife, otherwise gangrene
will follow, and though the tree may live, it will be in a feeble,
stunted condition, and after a few years will wither and die.
After transplanting the trees into your orchard, let the ground
which received them be for several years cultivated. The
young trees should be washed for some years, after they are
removed to the orchard, by a wash of oil soap or potash water.
The former is recommended, after long experience, by skilful
cultivators, who deem it less likely to prove injurious to the
tree in unskilful hands.

Much care is required in pruning the apple tree. By skilful^
cultivators it is deemed best to remove all but two or three
main branches from the trunk. This will form a sufficient lead
in such form, that the fruit in ripening will have the best ex-
posure to the sun. Care must be observed, that the branches
so reserved shall be so joined to the trunk as not to be in

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 107

danger of splitting down. Trees well transplanted, and tended
well, in good soil, on the fifth year after the setting out, pro-
duce fruit in considerable quantities.

The cultivation of the pear may be made very profitable. It
is now the generally received opinion of cultivators, that an
acre of land set with pear trees upon the quince stock, will pro-
duce more fruit than when set on the pear stock. The pear
tree on the quince may be safely set eight feet apart, and in
this way, many varieties may be raised in a small enclosure.

A moderately dry soil, though perhaps not producing so
rapid a growth of wood, will produce pears of higher flavor.
The pear demands large quantities of well-rotted manure, if
applied in the fall, in order to produce ready and good crops.
In dryish soils, the best manure is barnyard manure, mixed
with unleached ashes and peat mud. Street wash has been
used with success by cultivators of great experience. Various
reasons are assigned for the effects of this manure. It is sup-
posed by some, that the iron contained in it may supply a
necessary aliment to the tree. Doubtless, where there is a
deficiency of this element in the soil, that would fully explain
the success of the application. Probably a better reason is
that there is considerable manure in the wash, and the public
use of the road has pulverized and made very minute the par-
ticles that compose such wash, and in this way the tree most
readily takes up the comminuted particles. The fact of its
availableness as a nutriment to the pear tree, is beyond dis-
pute, and has been in use to some extent for many years.

In the cultivation of the pear, regard should be paid to one
thing in particular. Many varieties, it is well known, have
failed wholly, or in part, except in very sheltered situations,
when set upon the pear stock. Many of these varieties, thus
effete, still flourish with undiminished vigor on the quince
stock. In this category are the following varieties, to wit : —
Napoleon, Doyenne, blanc, (old St. Michael,) Doyenne, gray,
Duchess of Angouleme, and Beurre Diel.

As to the nature of the soil best adapted to the pear, your
committee had intended to have drawn out somewhat in de-
tail, whatever on this subject experience in culture and obser-
vation had supplied. But running it out in detail, it was at
once perceived, that it would require a volume instead of the

108

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

usual limits of a report. It is familiarly known to cultivators,
that different varieties of the pear require, to bring them to
perfection, soils different in dryness and moisture. And the
culture of the pear would be most favorably effected by a trea-
tise on this subject, stating with precision, from chemical
analysis, the elements of the different kinds of soil adapted to
each variety, and the degrees of moisture required for each*
And with this the different modes of distinguishing the varieties
of the fruit, beginning from the first development of the leaf
or blossom, to the maturity of the fruit. A book upon this
subject, accurately written, would prevent many failures, save
many disappointments, and contribute most materially to the
advancement of the general culture of the pear. Such knowl-
edge is possessed by cultivators, and it is to be hoped may
soon be drawn out into a treatise for the guidance of the less
skilful.

All which is respectfully submitted.

Edward Mellen,

Chairman of the Committee.

October 6, 1852.

Premiums on Apples.

James Eustis, South Reading,.

John B. Moore, Concord,

Isaac Holden, Billerica, gratuity,

Asa Clements, Dracut, do.

H. A. Wheeler, Concord, do.

Israel Putnam, Chelmsford, do.

A. G. Sheldon, Wilmington ; J. S. Wetherbee, Marl-
borough ; Rufus Moore, Groton ; Peter Lawson,
Dracut; Moses Prichard, Concord; Nathan Bar-
rett, Concord ; W. W. Wheildon, Concord ; I^athan
Barrett, Concord; and John Gordon, Brighton, each
a gratuity of .

$12

2 00

1 00

Pears.

J. Stickney, Watertown,
Hovey & Co., .

$6 00
3 00

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 109

John Gordon, Brighton ; Solon Dike, Stoneham ;
Charles Heard, Brighton ; Peter Lawson Dracut,
each, a gratuity of . . . . . $2 00

Butter.

Your committee, in pursuance of their duty, have attended
to its requirements, and have the honor to make the following
report.

The number of entries for premium were nineteen, present-
ing specimens of butter worthy of all praise, and which re-
quired extremely nice tasting to enable the committee to de-
cide which was entitled, more than another, to the premiums
at their disposal.

In no former instance have the samples, (with one or two
exceptions,) come more nearly to be entitled to " the first
premium " than at the present exhibition, giving proof of a
certain and positive improvement in the production of the im-
portant and desirable addition to our tables, of good, sweet,
pure butter. Particular attention has been devoted to the ex-
amination of the certificates in connection with the samples,
and we find very little, if any, particular variation in the course
pursued by all the makers ; and we have come to the conclu-
sion that all know how to make good butter, and nothing but
proper care is required that it should be well made, to render
it perfect.

It is a source of regret that seven of the nineteen samples
were not accompanied by the proper certificates required by the
positive rules of the society, and two had not the proper quan-
tity required, by which omission they were excluded from being
entitled to premium. It is sincerely hoped that this may be
better understood in future, for some of the samples embraced
in this category, were most temptingly sweet and delicious,
and would have satisfied the taste of the most fastidious
epicure.

Many of the samples presented were so nearly equal to any
offered, that the committee found it very difficult to decide, and
would gladly have awarded more premiums, had they had

110 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

authority, and funds at their disposal ; they trust that others
will for this time " take the will for the deed." To enable the
society to be more liberal, and enlarge the premiums on this
most important branch of female industry, it is hoped the
citizens of Middlesex will unite heart and hand in promoting
the best interests of the oldest Agricultural Society in the Com-
monwealth, and thereby so increase its funds, as to enable it
to extend its bounties and usefulness.
For the committee,

Alfred Allen, Chairman.
SoMERviLLE, Dcc. 14, 1852.

Premiums on Butter.
Sherebiah Spaulding, Chelmsford, 1st premium,

$3 00

Wm. F. Barnard, Marlborough, 2d do. . .2 50

Charles Howe, do. 3d do. . .2 00

John F. Rice, do. 4th do. . .1 50

E. G. Bartlett, Littleton, 5th do. . .1 00

Daniel L. Giles, gratuity, . . . . 1 00

The statements presented so nearly resemble each other, that
the following statement will give, very nearly, the mode adopt-
ed by all in the making their butter.

Jo/m F. Rice's Statement.

The box of butter that I offer for your inspection is a speci-
men of the butter made from a dairy of ten cows, and was
made in the following manner. The milk is strained into tin
pans standing on the bottom of the cellar for about thirty-six
hours. The cream is then taken from the milk, put into tin
pails, and put in a cool place near by, or on ice, as is thought
necessary to preserve the right temperature.

This butter was made from the cream of three days' milk,
and was churned in a common crank churn until well come ;
the buttermilk was then taken out, then rinsed in cold water,
taken from the churn, thoroughly worked, and salted about an
ounce to the pound. After remaining about twelve hours, it
was worked into pound lumps and prepared in the manner
you see here presented.

Marlborough, Oct. 6, 1852.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. HI

Horses.

There were four breeding mares exhibited. Only one stud
was offered. Several geldings were offered, but in the opinion
of the committee, neither of them was entitled to a premium.
If premiums were awarded to such horses, hundreds in the
county would be equally entitled to them. No carriage horses
were exhibited. Bulkley Moore, of Framingham, exhibited a
fine, well trained pair of draft horses. Daniel Wetherbee, of
Acton, exhibited a well trained pair of horses. Your commit-
tee are sure that there are better horses in the county, and that
when the attention of the community is called to this branch
of the exhibition, a much finer show of horses will be presented.

Respectfully submitted,

John Raynolds, Chairman.

Premiums.

David Loring, Concord, for breeding mare, . . ^3 00

Bulkley Moore, Framingham, for draft horse, . . 4 00

D. Wetherbee, Acton, for draft horse, . . . 2 00

Bulls and Bull Calves.

Native Bulls. First premium $8. To Constantine Hill,
of Bedford ; a most splendid animal, one year and four months
old, with the best points for dairy purposes of any native bull
shown, and the committee would urge upon all having first
rate cows, to avail themselves of the opportunity to improve
their stock, when they have it in their power, from such a fine
animal.

Second premium, |5. To Moses Stone, of Watertown ; a
very fine animal, with good dairy points, one year and ten
months old, and the committee can also recommend him for
raising good dairy stock.

There were a great many very good bulls shown, of which
your committee would make honorable mention, viz. : — Asa

112 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

Hodgman's, of Chelmsford, Aaron B. Rice's, H. Sheldon's, of
Wilmington, and William Hawes', of Woburn. The com-
mittee also granted a gratuity of $3 to Varnum Holt, for a
bull, not for any particularly fine points, but for being exhibit-
ed as one of three at a birth, having his two heifer mates ex-
hibited in the same pen.

Devons. First premium, $8. To William Buckminster, of
Framingham. The committee would say in regard to this bull,
that they do not consider him an animal for good dairy quali-
ties, and as such could not recommend him, as in their unani-
mous opinion he was deficient in those points, but for raising
working oxen his points are much better.

The committee did not award any second premium, as there
was no animal exhibited worthy of it.

Ayrshires. First premium, $8. To Gorham Brooks, of Med-
ford ; one of the finest animals on exhibition, two years and
two months old, and an imported bull, that your committee
would unanimously recommend for service to all lovers of su-
perior stock who wish to improve it, both in very superior
dairy qualities, and of fine, symmetrical points ; he is an ani-
mal that Mr. Brooks may well be proud of, and we think this
society and the farmers of Middlesex ought to thank him for
his liberality in importing and introducing such a valuable
animal to their exhibition and for their use, as it must have
been at a very heavy cost, with a great deal of care in selection.

Second premium, $5. To George M. Barrett, of Concord ;
an animal of fine points for dairy use, and purely bred ; one year
and six months old ; and your committee can with confidence
recommend him, and they would here state, that it was with
considerable difficulty that they decided between the above
bull, and one shown by William Spencer, of Lowell, their
points and valuable qualities being so near alike.

Your committee would also make honorable mention of a
beautiful animal, two years and three months old, by Henry
Rice, of Marlborough ; his dairy qualities for raising stock
from, are very finely developed.

Durhams. Your committee awarded a gratuity of $5 to
Horatio Merriam, of Tewksbury, for a fine Durham bull, six
years old. Mr. Merriam stated he was a valuable animal,
both in getting good stock, and a fine docile animal at work,

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 113

having been yoked every day in ploughing, and all other work,
on his farm for two years.

Two very fine bulls of this class were exhibited; one by A.
B. Hagget, of Lexington, and another by Henry Rice, of
Marlborough.

Bull Calves. First premium, $4. To John Johnson, of Fra-
mingham ; a splendid animal of the Devon breed, very supe-
rior in all points, both for the dairy purposes and to raise
working oxen from.

Second premium, $2. To J. Derby, of Concord; a very
nicely made animal.

One pure bred Alderney bull calf, four months old, was
shown by Peter Lawson, of Dracut, of beautiful and fine sym-
metry, and first rate dairy points.

The committee close their report with a few remarks. The
committee were much pleased with the appearance of the ani-
mals exhibited, being 32 in all. 19 Natives, 5 Devons, 4 Ayr-
shires, 3 Durhams and 1 Alderney, and they showed a vast
improvement on former years, and which only requires to be
steadily persevered in, to bring the cattle of Middlesex county
np to as high a standard of excellence as those- of any other
county in the State. As we are the oldest society, so we
ought to be the best. But in order to produce this result, the
committee would again recommend the great importance of
producing pure, thorough bred bulls, especially those of well
known character for excellence as regards their respective pur-^
poses. It is only when the blood is pvire and" well fixed that
any perfect reliance can be placed in the bull transmitting his.
own valuable properties to his offspring. When the blood is
not pure and well fixed in the animal bred pure, he is liable ta
breed back again into the inferior stock of former generations..
It is of the greatest importance that the points in the male-
should be the most perfect, which in the female are the most
imperfect. And also that all other points in the former shouldl
be equal, and, if possible, superior, to those of the latter, lest
in trying to remedy one defect, a greater may be produced ;
for the principle that "like produces like," extends as power-
fully to the defects as to the excellencies of the animal, The>
progeny infallibly inherits the defects, as well as the excellen-.
cies of the parents, and no improvement in a good p^arentqani
15

114 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

compensate for the introduction of an obvious blemish. It is
a matter of great importance to the breeder, that the animals
bred pure have what is called good handling properties, viz. :
— a spongy, elastic softness, in distinction from the hard, harsh,
unyielding nature of the skin, and the texture immediately
beneath, which is commonly called the case, in all improved
breeds of animals.

Good handling is always a proof of early maturity, and also
that the animal will appropriate its food to the best possible
use. Selection with judicious and cautious admixture is the
true secret of forming a breed ; the errors to be avoided are,
too long continued and obstinate adherence to one breed: and
on the other hand, and even more dangerous, violent crosses
in which there is similarity between the soil, the pasture, or
the points and qualities of the animals that are brought to-
gether. The skilful breeder looks carefully over his flock, and
he observes that some of his cows — the food and general man-
agement being the same — arrive earlier at maturity, fatten
more quickly, or produce more milk, (or they may have all
these qualities united in more or less perfection) than others ;
there is the same attention paid to all, but the profit is abun-
dantly more from some than from the majority of their com-
panions. He is anxious to account for this ; he compares
these cows with some of their companions, and he observes
that there is an evident difference of conformation and fineness
of line, and a beautiful proportion of every part. He studies
this, and he fitxls that there is more or less of this conformation
in every animal that materially outstrips their companions.
He then looks around with great care and selects the bull
which possesses in the greatest possible perfection the confor-
mation which he has found from experience to be best adapted
for his purpose; for, as has been already stated, the form of the
animal best adapted for the shambles, and the form best adapted
for the dairy, are considerably different. But there are other
things to be attended to in breeding besides the selection of
proper animals. It is necessary that they be well fed and well
sheltered, in order that their points may be fully developed in the
best possible manner. Suitable food and shelter has much to do
with the conformation of the animal. Young animals, bred es-
pecially for the dairy, should be fed to a considerable extent on

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 115

a bulky kind of food, so as to enlarge their abdominal region
and give it a capacity of holding a large quantity of succulent
food to be manufactured into milk. But animals bred for the
shambles should be fed on rich and highly nutritious food, in
order to develop their most valuable points, and also to bring
them to early maturity. The nature of their food does not re-
quire an enlargement of the abdomen, as in dairy stock, and
as it is less valuable than other points, it should not therefore
be increased at their expense.

The above, the committee would recommend to the special
attention of those who raise their own stock, and also hope
that those farmers and others interested in the prosperity of
our agricultural societies would give more attention to the
suggestions of the committee, they having every confidence
that it will be found on trial to their own interest, as well as to
the interest of Middlesex county, to raise their own stock from
well-known animals, than to depend on purchasing from tran-
sient droves, knowing nothing of the merits or any of the
points of the stock such transient animals are from.

P. Lawson, Chairman.

Heifers.

The committee on heifers found a large number of fine ani-
mals entered for premium. The competitors were so fairly
mated it was difficult to decide which was best. And the
committee wish, on that account, that a larger number of pre-
miums could be awarded.

There can be no doubt that an increased interest is awakened
among the farmers in this matter. The statements which were
handed in by the owners of the milch heifers confirmed this.
The animals themselves confirmed it. And the younger stock,
numerous, handsome and well formed, is an indisputable evi-
dence of this growing interest. The milch heifers entered,
were nearly all natives. Many of the younger animals, the
one year and two years old, were of the Ayrshire, Durham,
and Devon stock. The best heifer calf, and a choice one, too,
in the judgment of the committee, was of the Alderney breed.

116 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

They award, on milch heifers, to Asa Melvin, of Concord,
first premium of $6. To Amos Carlton, of Chelmsford, the
second, $4. A gratuity of $2 each, is recommended to George
M. Barrett, of Concord, and Edwin Wheeler, of Concord.

On two years old heifers, to H. H. Bigelow, of Marlborough,
first premium of $5. To George M. Barrett, of Concord, the
second, of $3.

On yearling heifers, to Henry Rice, of Marlborough, first
premium of $4. To Jabez Wetherbee, of Marlborough, the
second, of $2.

On heifer calves, first premium of $4, to Elijah M. Reed, of
Tewksbury. To Henry Blanchard, of Wilmington, second
premium, of $2.

Leonard Huntress, Chairman.

George M. BarreWs Statement.

Gentlemen, — The milch heifer offered by me for premium,
is half Ayrshire and half native, and is two years and two
months old. She came in about the middle of August, when
my feed was entirely dry, and not calculated to make milk.
She has been giving, for the last two or three weeks, nine and
one-half quarts of milk per day ; her keeping has been nothing
but grass feed, and that rather poor.

Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Edwin Wlieeler^s Statement.

Gentlemen, — My heifer that I offer for inspection, was
two years old last April, and native breed. She calved the
30th of August, and she gives now eight quarts of milk per
day. Her keeping is nothing but dry cornstalks and grass.

Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Elijah M. ReecTs Statement.

Gentlemen, — The Alderney heifer offered by me for premi-
um, is eleven months and twenty days old. She was from my
thorough bred Alderney cow. I took her away from the cow
when three days old, and gave her five quarts of new milk per
day, and a little meal occasionally, till she was four months

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 117

old. She then had skimmed milk two months, and has had
nothing but ordinary pasturing since.

Tewksbury, Oct. 5, 1852.

Amos CarletorCs Statement.

Gentlemen, — The heifer here offered for a premium is two
and one-half years old, is of the native breed, and was raised
by me. She calved the 13th day of August. In three days
she gave 31-| quarts of strained milk, — averaging 10^ quarts
per day, and weighing two pounds and seven ounces per quart.
Her keeping has been nothing but green stalks with what feed
she got in the pasture ; stalks have been her principal living
for the last two months.

Chelmsford, Oct. 6, 1852.

Henry BlanckarcV s Statement.

Gentlemen, — The father of this calf was a beautiful animal
of great celebrity, in New Hampshire, and pronounced supe-
rior to any animal of the kind in the northern part of the State,
and a direct descendant from Mr. Webster's far-famed Frank-
lin bull. The calf came on the 27th day of May last past,
therefore will be nineteen weeks, or four and one-third calendar
months old on Thursday, the 7th inst. I observed, when she
was about a week old, that she had quite an inclination to eat
grain from her mother's measure, and I ordered her fed daily
with fine feed and oats, which when presented to her, she
would very often leave her milk to eat. I at that time offered
her water, which she drank with her own accord. Since that
time, whenever my cows have been fed with green feed, she
has always taken a very lively interest to get her share, and
has eaten and drank any and everything, the same as other
cattle, and having been particularly hearty at all times, does
more especially account for her fine growth.

Wilmington, Oct. 4, 1852.

Asa Melvin's Statement.

Gentlemen, — The heifer presented by me to-day, for premi-
um, is of the native breed. She is two years and six months

118 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

old. She calved on the 30th of July last, and has been kept
through the season in a common pasture, and the feed has
been both dry and short. One week in September, commenc-
ing with the 21st, we made from her milk nine pounds and
one ounce of butter. During that week she was fed with two
quarts of meal per day.

Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Milch Cows.

The committee on milch cows, respectfully submit the
following report : —

That at the cattle show holden at Concord, on the sixth day
of October, A. D. 1852, the exhibition of milch cows was unu-
sually large and fine.

So numerous were the rivals for your premiums, that your
committee found the time allotted for making examination,
for consultation and decision, quite too short to satisfy them-
selves, much less can they hope to have satisfied all the com-
petitors. We had scarcely time to examine the claims for
premiums. Many handsome animals that were offered for
exhibition, and some of which might perhaps have been justly
entitled to gratuities, at least to a commendatory word, the
committee were obliged to pass almost unobserved.

There were eighteen cows offered for premiums — 12 native
breed ; 2 Ayrshire breed ; 2 Devon breed ; 2 Alderney.

Native Breed. The first premium of $8 was awarded to
Nathan Brooks, of Acton. This cow was 7 years old ; calved
September 2, 1851, and again, September 20, 1852. From
September 2, 1851, to August 5, 1852, she gave 3,739 beer
quarts of milk — was giving three quarts of milk per day when
milking was discontinued, forty-six days before she calved — 1^
quarts of her milk makes a pound of butter. Keeping, in win-
ter, good hay, 1 quart Indian meal and 1 quart oat meal per
day ; in summer, grass only.

The second premium of $6 was awarded to S. Wheeler, of
Framingham. This cow was 7 years old, calved August 12,
1852 ; the last week in September gave 14 quarts strained milk

-B^mwenm

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 119

per day. Had no extra feed except green corn. This was a
very handsome animal.

The third premium of $4 was awarded to Abel Hosmer, of
Concord. This cow was 7 years old, calved early in February,
1852. Her milk averaged, in May, 15 quarts per day ; in June
17 quarts ; in July, 16 quarts ; in August, 14 quarts ; in Sep-
tember, 13 quarts ; in October, 11| quarts per day. Keeping,
hay and grass.

Devon Breed. The first premium of ^8 was awarded to
Abel Hosmer, of Concord. This cow was 5 years old, calved
May 1, 1852. Her milk averaged, in June, 12 quarts per day ;
in July, 11|- quarts ; in August, 10 quarts ; in September, 9
quarts per day. Keeping, a pasture on light land.

The other Devon cow was accompanied by no statement.
Ayrshire Breed. The first premium of $8 was awarded to
George M. Barrett, of Concord. This cow was 21 years old !
calved January 3, 1852. In January and February, her milk
averaged seventeen and one-half quarts per day. She then
got hurt by the hook of a cow, which nearly dried her up for
some months. She now (October) gives five quarts per day.
Keeping, in winter, good hay and 1 quart oil meal and 2 quarts
shorts per day, — in summer, grass and some corn fodder.

The second premium of ^5 was awarded to Converse Smith,
of Waltham. This cow was 6 years old, calved about June 1,
1852 ; gave 15 quarts of milk per day, now (October) gives 12
quarts per day. Has had no grain, or extra keeping, except
corn stover.

Alderney Breed. Two animals of this breed were entered
so late in the day as scarcely to be seen by the committee.
One of them, named " Victoria," owned by Peter Lawson,
Esq., of Dracut, was imported in 1851. Her standard quan-
tity of milk in winter, is 8 quarts per day, and was never
below 6 quarts per day, until the day on which she calved ;
on the morning of which day she gave 5 quarts ; she calved in
May. Her largest quantity per day was 14 quarts ; her pres-
ent average (October) 101 quarts per day. Her milk is repre-
sented to be very rich, yielding, of butter, one pound and a
fraction to 4 quarts of milk. Keeping, in winter, English hay,
turnips, and fine feed — in summer, dry pasture, fine feed and
cut hay.

120 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

There being no premium offered for this breed of cows, a
gratuity of $8, equivalent to a first premium, was awarded to
Mr. Lawson, for this cow.

The other Alderney cow was not accompanied by the re-
quisite statement.

All which is respectfully submitted.

L. Eaton, Chairman.
Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Ploughing with Double Teams.

In making our report on ploughing with double teams, time
compels us to be very brief, barely announcing the individuals
to whom we award premiums ; but brief as it is, we are not
unmindful of the difficulty we shall encounter if we attempt
to please all; the trustees did not offer ^ first premium to all
who plough, therefore we awarded the premiums offered by
the trustees, as we thought right. We award to J. D. Brown,
of Concord, the first premium of $10; plough, Ruggles, Nourse
& Mason's double sod and subsoil. No. 75. To Daniel Wether-
bee, 2d, of Acton, the 2d premium of $7 ; plough, same. To
Gardner Wheeler, of Concord, the third premium of $6 ; plough,
Prouty & Mears's Michigan, No. 95. To A. G. Sheldon, of
Wilmington, the fourth premium of $5 ; plough. Eagle, No.
75, Ruggles, Nourse & Mason's. The committee further re-
commend a gratuity of $5 to be given to John B. Moore, of
Concord, he having ploughed with one yoke of oxen and two
horses, for which there was no premium offered ; plough,
Eagle, No. 20, Ruggles, Nourse & Mason's.

I was authorized by the committee to make a few remarks
in connection with this report. The number of teams that
ploughed was nine, one consisting of four horses, to which we
gave the 2d premium ; one of one yoke of oxen and two
horses, to which we recommended a gratuity of ^5 ; the rest
had two yoke of oxen each, all of which performed their work
as though it was not the first time they ever had hold of a
plough ; and had their been premiums enough to have given
to each, we should have done it, and thought that we could

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 121

not reject them, as not being worthy. The ground they
ploughed was very hard and unequal, the subsoil contained
much clay, having never been ploughed more than seven
inches deep ; but it was required to be ploughed nine, which
was done in a manner far surpassing the expectations of the
committee, particularly those who used the double sod and
subsoil, or Michigan ploughs. It was the opinion of the com-
mittee that the ground ploughed with these ploughs, was in a
better condition to receive seed, than it could be made with
the additional expense of one dollar per acre, (laid out in any
way,) on land ploughed with the common plough.

From the spirit and enterprise exhibited by the ploughmen,
and the vast number of people assembled, it is evident that a
deep interest is felt by all in this most important part of farm
operations. We say, then, put in the plough, and where two
mould-boards will pulverize and mix the soil best, (as will be
the case in all stiff and clay subsoils,) use them, and by going
one-half inch deeper each year, we shall shortly make our fields
beautify the earth. I am requested by the committee to re-
commend to the society the propriety of admitting teams to con-
tend for the premiums, (as a double team and under the same
restrictions,) consisting of two oxen and two horses, or of two
oxen and one horse, as it is well known that but few, com-
paratively, keep more than one yoke of oxen ; therefore a large
proportion of the farmers are deprived of the privilege of
ploughing with a double team.

For the committee,

J. B. Farmer.
Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Ploughing with Single Teams.
The committee on ploughing with single teams, report as
follows : — There were eighteen entries ; fourteen lands only
were ploughed. The work was done remarkably well, con-
sidering the nature of the soil and obstructions, viz. : rocks,
meadow grass, roots of trees, side hill, &c.

For the committee,

E. Wood, Jr.
Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.
16

122 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

Premiums.

Nathan Brooks, Acton, 1st premium, . . $10 00

John Johnson, Framingham, 2d do. . . 7 00

Joseph A.Smith, Concord, 3d do. . . 6 00

J. S. Wheeler, Framingham, 4th do. . .5 00

Ploughing with Horse Teams.

The committee on horse teams attended to their duty, and
report that there were ten teams which ploughed, and all did
their work in an excellent manner ; they regret that there were
not more premiums to award for so many teams.

Respectfully submitted, for the committee,

Daniel Wetherbee, 2d.
Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

Premiums.

Francis Wheeler, Concord, 1st premium, . . $10 00

Abner Haven, Framingham, 2d do. . . 7 00

Harrison Ames, do. 3d do. . . 6 00

S. M. Thomas, Wayland, 4th do. . .5 00

Fat Cattle.

The committee on fat cattle have attended to that duty and
make the following report : —

There were seven entries for the society's premiums, by the
following individuals, viz.: — Samuel E. Warren, William L.
Howe, and Stephen Morse, of Marlborough, each one yoke;
Elbridge Robbins, of Acton, Henry A. Sheldon, of Wilming-
ton, H. A. and S. A. Coburn, of Ijowell, and Asa Hodgman, of
Chelmsford, each one yoke.

For the committee,

J. S. Wetherbee.
Concord, Oct. 6, 1852.

MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 123

Premiums.

Stephen Morse, Marlborough, 1st premium, . . $8 00

Elbridge Robbins, Acton, 2d do. . .6 00

W. L. Howe, Marlborough, 3d do. . ^.400

Stephen Morse's Statement.

Gentlemen, — The cattle offered by me for premium are na-
tive cattle, and were raised in Berlin, Mass. They are 7 years
old and have been owned by me between two and three years.
Since I have owned them they have done all the work on my
farm, and during last winter they were kept on meadow hay.
When I commenced working them in April last, I gave them
English hay and four quarts of meal, each, per day, and con-
tinued it till they were put to grass, towards the last of May.
Since which they have had nothing but grass and green stalks.

Marlborough, Oct. 5, 1852.

William L. Hmve^s Statement.

Gentlemen, — The oxen which I enter for premium, have had
nothing but common pasture feed, except a few stalks at cut-
ting time. They have done the work of the farm, besides
working out to the amount of $50, without any grain whatever.

Marlborough, Oct. 5, 1852.

124 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

WORCESTER COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SO-
CIETY.

The Ploughing Match.

The committee on the ploughing match submit the follow-
ing report:

The plough is the index of the true glory of a nation. Where
the husbandman drives his team afield, and the plough upturns
the grassy furrow, there are heard the jocund laugh and the
merry shout of happy, peaceful hearts ; there are seen the lovely
arts of peace, the waving fields, the thriving villages, and the
blissful homes of an industrious, intelligent people.

The "pomp and pageantry" of war become dim beside the
more substantial glories of agriculture. The jeweled sword,
the golden epaulette, the dancing plume, fade into nothingness
even compared with the unadorned, wood and iron plough.

The gorgeous palace, the massive tower, the magnificent
cathedra], and all the surroundings of royal splendor, pale
before those simple but sublime and beautiful results which
spring up from the furrow of the plough.

When the prophet of old cast his Heaven-enlightened glance
into the far future of millennial glory, he adds the crowning
touch to his inspired picture of perfect beauty and happiness,
by telling us that swords shall be turned into pruning hooks
and spears into plough shares. The history of the past, and
the prophecy of the future, both declare the inherent and pre-
eminent glory of the plough.

Show us the plough of any age or any people, and we will
tell you the rank which that age or people holds in the scale
of civilization and refinement. When and where the plough
is misshapen, uncouth or clumsy, then and there you will find
the people void of intelligence, virtue and enterprise. But
when and where the plough is elegant, tasteful and in-

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 125

genious, then and there you will find the people industrious,
enterprising, virtuous, intelligent and thriving.

It is true wisdom and policy then for a people, desirous of
promoting their highest good, to encourage the ploughman
and improve the plough. And our grateful thanks are due
to those wise and far-seeing minds who have, in past genera-
tions, and in our own times, sought to advance and improve
the art and science of agriculture by those public fairs and
trials of skill in the manufacture and use of the plough.

Your committee congratulate the members of the Worcester
County Agricultural Society, on the solid good which has
grown out of their past efforts to elevate the calling of the
husbandman and improve the implements of his toil.

This thirty-fifth anniversary of oiu- annual festival, in the
number and beauty of the ploughs, the excellence and thor-
oughness of the work of the several competitors, has not fallen
below any of the past anniversaries.

The number of entries were twenty-five, and your commit-
tee, after a careful and impartial investigation, have awarded
the following

Premiums.

First premium to Cyrus Gale, of Northborough, Charles
P. Potter, ploughman ; Ruggles, Nourse, Mason &
Co.'s Eagle plough, No. 731 Oxen five years old ;
work done in 27 minutes, .... $10 00

Second premium to George P. Stockwell, of Sutton,
himself ploughman ; Martin's Eagle plough, No. 50.
Oxen five years old ; work done in 48 minutes, . 9 00

Third premium to Loren Carpenter, of Charlton, him-
self ploughman ; Ruggles, Nourse, Mason & Co.'s
Eagle plough, No. 73|. Oxen five years old ; work
done in 40 minutes, . . . . . 8 00

Fourth premium to Silas Bailey, of Boylston, Nathan
B. Read ploughman ; Martin's Eagle plough. No.
50. Oxen four years old ; work done in 33 minutes, 7 00

Fifth premium to T. J. Wheelock, of Grafton, himself
ploughman ; Ruggles, Nourse, Mason & Co.'s Eagle
plough, No. 731. Oxen six years old ; work done
in 49 minutes, . . . . . 6 00

126 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Sixth premium to Calvin D. Nourse, of Grafton, Hen-
ry T. Wheelock, 14 years old, ploughman ; Ruggles,
Nourse, Mason & Co.'s Deep Tiller plough, No. 73^.
Oxen five years old ; work done in 45 minutes, . $5 00

Seventh premium to Leonard S. Wheelock, of Graf-
ton, himself ploughman ; Ruggles, Nourse, Mason
& Co.'s Eagle plough, No. 73|-. Oxen six years
old ; work done in 42 minutes, . . . 4 00

********

Otis Adams, Qiairman.

Working Oxen.

The committee on working oxen have attended to the duty
assigned them, and respectfully report : —

That the whole number of teams entered were thirty -three ;
four of which were for exhibition only, and one of the number
did not appear at the trial of draught, leaving twenty-eight as
competitors for the society's premiums.

The trial of strength was made in the usual mode, and con-
sisted in drawing a loaded cart, which, with its contents,
weighed 4,000 pounds, up an elevation selected for the
purpose.

The committee are happy to state, as their unanimous
opinion, that a finer display of teams was never made at any
of the previous exhibitions of this society. The cattle were
in good condition, gave evidence of admirable training, and
performed to the entire satisfaction of the committee ; and in
making their award, the only difficulty they encountered was
to determine the comparative excellence of each, when all
were so meritorious.

After as careful a consideration as the circumstances of the
occasion would permit, they have with great unanimity agreed
upon the following awards :

First premium to Mrs. J. L. Sibley, Sutton, . . $10 00

Second premium to Henry J. Reed, Princeton, . 8 00

Third premium to Royal Draper, Sturbridge, . . 7 00

Fourth premium to Joseph P. Reed, Princeton, . 6 00

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 127

Fifth premium to Loren Carpenter, Sturbridge, . |5 00

Sixth premium to Leonard Wheelock, Grafton, . 4 00

Seventh premium to Artemas J. Bullard, Worcester, . 3 00
The premium to the best driver is awarded to Henry

J. Reed, of Princeton, . . . . 3 00

Amasa Walker, Chairman.

Fat Cattle.

The committee on fat cattle having attended to the duty
assigned to them, respectfully submit their report : —

Ten fat oxen and six fat cows were offered this year for pre-
miums, and two fat oxen and one fat cow for exhibition.

The committee, being extremely desirous of doing impartial
justice in awarding the few premiums at their disposal, ex-
tended their examination of the cattle, and deliberated upon
the claims of the different competitors for premiums till they
have only time briefly and without comment to state the result
of their labors.

They awarded the first premium of $12 to Harrison Bacon,
of Barre, for his red ox, four years old, weighing 2,200 lbs., one-
half Durham.

The second premium of $10 to Pliny P. Gould, of Phillips-
ton, for his brown ox, native breed, weighing 2,300 lbs.

The third premium of $8 to Seth Wyman, of Shrewsbury,
for his red ox, native breed, weighing 2,352 lbs., five years old.

The fourth premium of $5 to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for
his red ox, half Durham, four years old, and weighing 2,160 lbs.

To Chandler Taft, of Spencer, the first premium of $10 for
his fat cow, Durham breed, eighteen years old, weighing
1,575 lbs.

To Jacob W. Watson, of Princeton, the second premium of
$6 for his cow, native breed, ten years old, weighing 1,775 lbs.
The third premium of $4 to Nathan Rice, of Oakham, for
his cow, one-half Durham breed, and weighing 1,380 lbs.

One ox of Seth Wyman, of Shrewsbury, and one of Charles
H. Newton, of Shrewsbury, entered for exhibition merely.

W WORCESTER SOCIETY.

added much to the show of fat cattle, and were well worthy of
premiums, could such have been awarded them.

All of which is respectfully submitted in behalf of the com-
mittee,

John W. Wetherell, Chairman,

Sheep.

The committee on sheep have had but little service to per-
form. The society having very properly ceased to encourage
the raising of fine wool, our farmers seem not to have yet pro-
vided themselves with those breeds best adapted to the growth
of mutton.

Four bucks were entered for premium — one by Joseph Rice,
of Shrewsbury, a yearling, of the Dishley breed, and bearing
strong marks of his true character.

One by Thomas R. Foster, of Holden, a yearling, of our
common long woolled breeds.

One by Seth Wyman of Shrewsbury, a yearling which had
the appearance of having a little of the Dishley blood in
him.

One by N. B. Stone of Charlton, a two years' old of mixed
blood, probably originating from the Merino, but retaining very
little of the appearance of that breed.

The committee awarded the first premium of $5 to Joseph
Rice ; and the second premium of $2 to N. B. Stone.

Four ewes were entered for premiums by Seth Wyman of
Shrewsbury, and four by Ebenezer Lincoln, of Grafton.

Three of Mr. Lincoln's sheep were worthy of a premium,
but if the fourth had been equally good your committee
would not have been justified in awarding him a premium, by
reason of their not having been taken from U flock of ten or
more.

This left Mr. Wyman's ewes without competition, and»the
committee did not think them of such superior quality or
value as to entitle their owner to a premium, and under the
rules of the society did not award any.

Mr. Wyman exhibited five other ewes with handsome lambs
but a few weeks old. Mr. Wyman states that these were the

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 129

second bearing of the present year, all his ewes having brouo-ht
lambs late in the winter or early in the spring.

Rejoice Newton, Chairman.

Swine.

The committee on swine, having attended to the duty as-
signed to them, beg leave to report : —

That though the company was few in numbers, yet it was
very select in character, nothing but the very aristocracy of
pigdom being represented within the pens. Your committee,
having congratulated themselves upon the profound wisdom of
their body, proceeded to pay their congratulation to their as-
sembled brethren. , And first upon the list stands the beautiful
boar of Lyman Pierce of West Boylston, so eminently dis-
tinguished that your committee awarded him the first premium
of %Q.

Next, the boar of John D. Hudson of Oxford, the second
premium of |3.

To Andrew J. Waite, of Worcester, " for the best breeding
sow not less than two years old," the first premium of $10,
and your committee are sorry they cannot wait to tell you all
the weighty matters appertaining to this distinguished lady.

To James F. Thorndike of Grafton, for his " Susanna," the
second premium of $6.

For the best breeding sow not less than one year old, to An-
drew J. Waite, of Worcester, the first premium of |6. She
being a daughter of the lady mentioned above, and bidding
fair to rival her mother in matronly charms.

For the next best sow not less than one year old, to John D.
Lovell of West Boylston, a premium of $4.

For the next best, to James F. Thorndike, of Grafton, a
premium of $2. Many of your committee were quite in love
with this lady, whether from the rosy hue of her complexion,
or from her fair proportions, the chairman could not judge ;
mere beauty being a secondary consideration to a good " help
meat," (in their opinion).
17

130 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

The belle of the pigs was obliged to yield the palm to those
who brought a larger portion though perhaps less of beauty.

For the best weaned pigs, not less than four in number, the
first premium of $5 was awarded to John Goodwin of Wor-
cester, for his " happy family."

For the next best, to John D. Hudson, of Oxford, a premium
of $3.

For the next best, to Whipple W. Patch, of Worcester, for
his beautiful specimen of Patch work, a premium of $2.

Samuel Hathaway, Chairman.

Steers of Three Years Old.

The committee on steers of three years old, have attended
to the duty assigned to them, and report that they examined
fifteen yoke that were entered for premiums, all of which were
worthy of exhibition in Worcester county ; they were all very
fine steers, and if they failed in anything it was in their
equality of match in several pairs. There were also two yoke
offered for exhibition only, (having been raised out of the State)
that did credit to the show.

The committee, after a very careful examination, came to the
following result, and award the first premium of $8 to Elijah
Bigelow, Jr., of Douglas, for his half Devon steers, weighing
2,675.

To Anson Warren of Westboro', for his half Durham steers,
weighing 2,820, the second premium of $7.

To Levi L. Chase of Sutton, for his native steers, weighing
3,020, the third premium of $6.

To Silas Bailey, of Boylston, for his Alderney steers, weigh-
ing 2,670, the fourth premium of $5.

To Jacob W. Watson, of Princeton, for his half Holderness
steers, weighing 2,575, the fifth premium of $3.

To David Carpenter, of Charlton, for his native steers, not
weighed, the sixth premium of $2.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

Salem Towne, Chairman.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 131

Steers under Three Years Old.

The committee on steers under three years old, have attend-
ed to the duty assigned them, and submit the following report :

To Simon Carpenter, of Charlton, for his half Durham steers,
two years old, the first premium of $6.

To Russell A. Davis, of Oxford, for his native steers, two
years old, the second premium of $5.

To Asa Rice, of Worcester, for his part Devon steers, the
third premium of $4.

And on yearling steers, your committee have awarded to
Harrison Bacon, of Barre, the first premium of $5 for his three-
quarter Durham steers, one year and six months old.

To Alpheus Davis, of Charlton, the second premium of $4
for his yoke of half Durham steers.

To Silas Bailey, of Boylston, the third premium of $3. In
awarding this last premium, the committee were divided in
opinion in regard to the merits of the steers of Mr. Bailey and
Mr. Asa Rice of Worcester, who had a yoke of very fine ones.
The opinion of the chairman was called for, and the premium
given to Mr. Bailey.

And upon steer calves, your committee have awarded the
first premium of $3 to Samuel Sawyer, of Sterling, for his
yoke of twin steer calves.

To Jacob W. Watson, of Princeton, we award the second
premium of $2, for his yoke of steer calves.

In submitting this report, your committee would speak in
terms of high commendation of all the animals that came
within their province to pass upon, and would gladly have
awarded further premiums if the trustees had furnished the
means.

All of which is respectfully submitted for the committee.

Joseph Bruce, Chairman.

Heifers not less than Two Years Old.

The committee on heifers not less than two years old, have
attended to the duty assigned to them, and submit the follow-
ing report: —

132 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Of three-year olds there was but four entries, all fine animals.
The one owned by Jacob W. Watson, was a very superior
animal.

The three premiums on three-year old heifers were awarded
as follows :

First premium to Jacob W. Watson, Princeton, . $7 00

Second " to William Eaton, Worcester, . . 6 00

Third " to William Eames, " . . 4 00

In awarding the three premiums on two-year olds, the duty
was extremely difficult. We found twenty-four entries of this
class, all deserving of praise. Of those for which we had no
premiums, we noticed with admiration two half-blood Devon,
owned by Nathaniel Dodge, of Sutton, from the society's bull,
Roebuck, showing strongly the marks of that beautiful breed
of cattle ; one owned by John Brooks, Princeton ; one by Syl-
vanus Sears, of Worcester; one by Samuel A. Cushing, of
Shrewsbury ; all fine animals, and would do credit to any
stock.

The three premiums on two-year old heifers were awarded
as follows :

First premium to Gordon Woodward, Leicester, . $7 00

Second " to Jacob W. Watson, Princeton, . 6 00

Third " to William S. Lincoln, Worcester, . 4 00

* * * * * * * *

Henry R. Keith, Chairman.

Heifers less than Two Years Old.

Your committee, having attended to their "duty, ask leave to
submit the following report : —

This class of animals was very numerous, and the exhibition
showed a growing interest in this county, for raising the hand-
somest, and at the same time the most profitable stock.

There were thirty-four animals entered for exhibition — con-
sisting of 9 half Devon, 16 half Ayrshire, 4 Natives, 1 Spanish,
5 quarter Ayrshire, and 1 Devon. Of the Ayrshire, Hon. John

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 133

Brooks, of Princeton, entered eight. The half Devon combines
most of the superior qualities, and we were pleased to find that
this kind of stock was such a general favorite among our
farmers.

The committee were very unanimous in the opinion that the
first premium of $S for the best one-year old heifer should be
awarded to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for his half Durham heifer.

The second premium of $6 was awarded to John D. Lovell,
of West Boylston, for his half Devon heifer.

The third premium of $5 was awarded to Jacob W. Wat-
son, of Princeton, for his half Ayrshire heifer.

The premium of $3 for the best calf not more than eight
months old, was awarded to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for his
half Durham calf, 4| months old.

There was no entry of calves of not less than five in num-
ber, but there was an entry of four calves, half Ayrshire, by
Hon. John Brooks, which were four months old and taken
from the cow when three days old, which your committee
think justly entitles him to a premium for the best lot of
calves, and they accordingly recommend that the premium of
^5 be awarded to him for his fine specimen of stock.

Ward N. Boylston, of Princeton, exhibited a beautiful full
blood Devon heifer, one year old, weighing 695 pounds, but it
did not bear sufficient marks, as compared with some other
animals, to entitle him to the premium.

Nathaniel Dodge, of Sutton, exhibited three heifers, half
Devon, which excelled, in good and coquetish looks, any others
on the ground — they were the decided belles of the pens.

The Spanish calf, 5 months old, exhibited by Thomas Mar-
shall, of Worcester, was a novel specimen, both in form and
color, and as the "prima donna" of the day, attracted much
attention.

There were two pairs of twin calves, very good looking and
modest, and although they expected something, your committee
can do nothing more than recommend their owners to keep
them as stock for Barnum's Museum.

The stock of calves generally, did not look so well as might
have been expected, if the heat of summer had not deprived
them of the sweetest and best feed, which is so very desirable
for young animals.

134 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

As a whole, your committee were very much gratified with
the "rising generation" intrusted to their examination, and
notwithstanding the feminine youthfuhiess of some, they all
gave evidence of good training, and displayed those docile
virtues which are most becoming in young cows.
All of which is respectfully submitted,

E. B. Stoddarb, Chairman.

Bulls under One Year Old.

Report of the committee on bulls under one year old,
(familiarly called bull calves.)

The subject is not an inspiring one, and the committee beg
leave to confine themselves entirely to statistics.

As only seven animals were entered for exhibition, the duties
of the committee were light. They have no hesitation in
awarding the only premium within their judicature to Ezra
Beaman, of West Boylston, for a bull calf, part Devon, raised
by himself, nine months old, weighing one thousand pounds.
The committee are of the opinion that the other animals reg-
ularly entered are not deserving of particular commendation.

Two very fine bull calves, one three months and 28 days
old, weighing 470 pounds, owned by Lambert Lamson, of
Boylston ; and one 13 weeks and four days old, weighing 370
pounds, owned by Nathan Handy, of Grafton, would be enti-
tled to most honorable notice, but for a regulation of this
society directing that no mention shall be made of animals not
entered in season.

The committee beg leave to call attention to the last para-
graph as a fair specimen of an Irish Bull.
All of which is respectfully submitted,

F. Wayland, Jr., Chairman.

Milch Cows.

The whole number of animals presented for premium was six.

Of these Mr. Jabez Rice, of Worcester, presented three ;

Mr. Samuel Ellsworth, of Barre, one ; Mr. E. T. Rand, of

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 135

Shrewsbury, one ; and Mr. William Eames, of Worcester,
one.

The various premiums offered by the society, your commit-
tee would distribute as follows :

To Mr. Samuel Ellsworth, of Barre, the first premium in
the first class, $25, for the best dairy of five cows, from a stock
of not less than five. Mr. Ellsworth's stock was represented
by his gray, half Durham cow, Georgianna, five years old.
She shows marks of very superior milking qualities, and the
certificate of her owner shows, that during- the first ten days
of June, she gave 510 pounds of milk, or an average of 51
pounds a day, and during the first ten days of September, she
gave 333 pounds, or an average of 33|^ pounds a day. This
was the only cow present of his stock. The trial of the others
gave the following results. The second cow. Red Rose, eight
years old, half Durham, on the first trial gave 418| pounds of
milk, or 41| pounds a day, and on the second trial, 287^
pounds, or 28f pounds a day. The third cow, Barre Star,
eight years old, half Durham, on the first trial gave 414f
pounds of milk, or an average of 41| pounds a day, and on
the second, 266| pounds, an average of 26| pounds a day.
The fourth cow. Gray Heifer, five years old, half Durham, on
the first trial gave 359| pounds of milk, or an average of 36
pounds a day nearly, and on the second, 230| pounds, an av-
erage of 23 pounds a day. The fifth cow, Ayrshire, five years
old, pure Ayrshire, on the first trial, gave 382|- pounds of milk,
an average of 38 pounds a day, and on the second, 221 pounds,
an average of 22 pounds a day. Mr. Ellsworth's certificate
was duly filled out, except in the item of live weight. No
scales were to be found within five miles of his house, and in
view of the difficulties of the case, and the trouble and expense
to which he has been subjected in producing the weight of
two, the committee think that the society ought, for the weight
of the rest, to take the estimate of the two best men that could
be found in his precinct.

To Mr. Jabez Rice, of Worcester, a premium of $15, being
the first premium in the second class, for the best dairy of
three cows, from a stock of not less than five. All of Mr.
Rice's cows were present in the pens. The first cow, ten years

136 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

old, native breed, on the first ten days of June gave 809|
pounds of milk, or 31 pounds a day on the average ; and on
the first ten days of September, 169 pounds, or 18 pounds a
day. The second cow, seven years old, native breed, on the
first trial gave 288 pounds of milk, or 28| pounds a day ; and
on the second, 171^^ pounds, or 17 pounds a day. The third cow,
four years old, one-eighth Devon, gave, on the first trial, 255
pounds of milk, or 25] pounds a day, and on the second trial,
130 pounds, or 13 pounds a day. Mr. Rice's certificate was
all duly filled out, according to the present regulations of the
society.

To Mr. E. T. Rand, of Shrewsbury, $8, the first premium
in the fourth class, for the best single cow, kept alone or with
others, for his beautiful red, pure Durham cow, four years old.
The certificate of her owner shows, that on the first ten days
of June, she gave an average of 37 pounds of milk a day, and
on the first ten days of September, an average of 24 pounds.

To Mr. William Eames, of Worcester, $5, being the second
premium in the fourth class, for his deep red, native cow, five
years old. The certificate of her owner states, that in the
June trial, she gave 369 pounds of milk, or 37 pounds a day,
and in the September trial, 235 pounds, or 23] pounds a day.

Mr. Ebenezer Lincoln, of Grafton, presented a very fine
young cow, four years old, one-half Durham breed, but with-
out a certificate. Mr. L. states that he sells his milk at the
door, and that his cow has averaged 14 quarts a day for eight
months. The committee, therefore, would recommend a gra-
tuity of four dollars to Mr. Lincoln, for his cow.

Among three cows presented by Mr. Rufus Hastings of
Sterling, without a certificate, your committee noticed favora-
bly, a spotted one-half Devon cow, with a calf by her side, and
would recommend to her a gratuity of two dollars.

Among the cows presented for exhibition' only, the commit-
tee would notice first, and far above all others at the exhibition,
the full-blooded, imported Ayrshire cow, presented by William
B. Fox, Esq., of this city. This cow, the committee, to a man,
pronounced one of the very finest animals they had ever seen,
both as regards purity of blood, size, beauty, and marks of the
deepest and richest milking qualities, and the thanks of the

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 137

committee, and of the society, are presented to Mr. Fox, for
the deep interest he takes in the welfare of the society, which
has prompted him to send her, at some risk and trouble, to
grace our annual festival.

Col. James Estabrook, of this city, also presented a very
beautiful native cow, seven years old, with a calf by her side,
for exhibition. This cow, as a most beautiful specimen of our
native breed, added much to this department of the exhibition
and her presence here showed a liberality and interest in the
cause of agriculture, on the part of her owner, highly deserving
the thanks of your committee.

A beautiful native cow, eight years old, was presented for
exhibition by Mr. John C. Ripley, which your committee viewed
with pride, as a fine specimen of our valuable native stock,
and thank Mr. Ripley for allowing her to be present.

Mr. Thomas Marshall, of Worcester, presented a cow of
Spanish breed, which though small and thin, showed marks
of a good milker, and under good flesh, would no doubt, be a
good looking, profitable cow.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

R. Woodward, Chairman.

Note. — The report of the committee on milch cows was,
by a vote of the society, on the day of the show, referred to
the trustees for final adjudication. In that body the matter
was referred to a sub-committee, which committee reported,
that inasmuch as no individual competitor, save Jabez Rice,
had complied with the rules of the society, in their opinion
the committee on premiums exceeded their power in making
their awards ; and however much it was to be regretted that
the competitors should be deprived of a compensation, for the
time and trouble they had bestowed in making the trial re-
quired ; still, as with a full knowledge of the rules, they had
chosen not to conform to them, there seemed to be no reason
why they should receive the favorable consideration of the so-
ciety.

It should be remembered by all, that the society offer their
premiums, payable upon compliance with all the conditions
imposed by the society ; and not, as seems sometimes to be
18

138 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

imagined, payable upon the performance of such portions of
them as a competitor may himself approve.

The report was adopted, and all premiums and gratuities
awarded by the committee, save that to Jabez Rice, were di-
rected to be withheld by the treasurer.

WiM. S. LINCOLN, Recording SecY

William S. Lincoln's Statement.

Dairy of two two years, and one three years old heifers, and
four cows; three of them grade Ayrshires, raised by himself;
turned to pasture May 20th ; fed corn fodder twice a day after
middle of July.

No. 1, twelve years old, calved April 5th; yielded in the first
ten days of June, 318 lbs. 15 oz. milk ; first ten days of Sep-
tember, 231 lbs. Ill oz.

No. 2, nine years old, calved April 4th ; yielded, in the first
ten days of June, 271 lbs. 13 oz. milk. Dried July 5th, and
fatted.

No. 3, six years old, calved April 6th ; yielded, in the first
ten days of June, 371 lbs. 1^ oz. milk; first ten days of Sep-
tember, 231 lbs. 14 oz.

No. 4, five years old, calved May 14th ; yielded, in the first
ten days of June, 300 lbs. 12|^ oz. milk; first ten days of Sep-
tember, 204 lbs. 10} oz.

No. 5 calved July 24th ; yielded, in the first ten days of Sep-
tember, 154 lbs. 1 oz. milk. Injured about time of calving so
much as to be fatting.

No. 6, three years old, calved in May ; yielded, in the first
ten days of June, 261 lbs. 3^ oz. milk ; first ten days of Sep-
tember, 137 lbs. 2 oz.

No. 7, two years old, calved July 3d ; yielded, in the first
ten days of September, 166 lbs. 1 oz. milk.

Worcester.

Jahez Rice^s Statement.

Dairy consists of seven cows, one three-year, and two two-
year old heifers, raised by himself; turned to pasture May 1st;
fed corn fodder since September 1st.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 139

No. 1, yielded in the first ten days of June, 309 lbs. 12 oz. milk.

« " " " Sept. 178 " 12 " "

No. 2, " " " " June, 288

" « » » Sept. 171

No. 3, " » " " June, 254 " 12

" " » « Sept. 130

Has kept three old hogs and six pigs ; feeding, besides re-
fuse of dairy and wash of house, 20 bushels cob meal; since
May 1st, sold swine to amount of $81.

Made, since turning to pasture, to September 10th, 917| lbs.
butter, 266 lbs. two meal cheese, and sold 644 quarts milk.

Worcester.

E. T. RancVs Statement.

Keeps one cow, Durham breed ; calved April 26th ; turned
to pasture May 15th. Yield, first nine days of June, 330 lbs.
milk, producing 15 lbs. 12 oz. butter ; first nine days of Sep-
tember, 219 lbs. milk, producing 12 lbs. butter.

Shrewsbury.

L. B. HapgoocCs Statement.

Dairy consists of ten cows, three of which are three years
old ; seven of the animals were raised by myself ; breed one-
quarter Durham ; have sold ten calves, at six weeks old, for
$63 14 ; fed in August, 25 bushels shorts ; weight of butter
from dairy, between June 1st and September 10th, 733 lbs. ;
have kept four hogs through the season ; estimated dead
weight, September 10th, 1,100 lbs. ; five pigs on hand, worth
$35 ; sold 17 pigs at six weeks old, for $44 25.

Shrewsbury.

Samuel Ellsworthh Statement.

Dairy consists of sixteen cows, of which one is three years,
and two are two years old ; most of the animals raised by
himself; turned to pasture 26th May; the pasturing was " first
rate," none better. The five cows offered for premium, were
fed two quarts corn and barley meal daily, for the time of
trial.

No. 1, yielded during first ten days of June, 510 lbs. 8 oz. milk.
" " » « Sept., 333 » «

140 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

No. 2, yielded during first ten days of June, 418 lbs. 12 oz. milk.

" " " » Sept., 287 " 8

No. 3, " " " " June, 413 " 12

" " « » Sept., 266 « 12

No. 4, " " " " June, 359 " 4

" « « " Sept., 2.30 " 12

No. 5, " " " " June, 382 " 8

« « « " Sept., 221 " «

June 5th, the milk from these cows was churned, and yield-
ed 8 lbs. 4 oz. butter ; and from the milk of one day in Sep-
tember, was made 5 lbs. 4 oz butter. On the 9th June, from
these cows was made 28 lbs. of curd, fitted for the press.

Barre.

Poultry.

The committee, after endeavoring to settle in their own
minds as well as they could do the claims of many competitors
for the few prizes offered by the society, are agreed in recom-
mending the following premiums — premising at the same time
that they are not sure but injustice has been done in some in-
stances, owing to the difficulty of deciding where the merits
are so nearly balanced.

First premium, $5, to Eaton & Mills of Worcester, for seven
fowls of the Black Spanish breed.

Second premium, $4, to Rzra Sawyer, of Sterling, for seven
White Shanghaies.

Third premium, |3, to Horace Jewett, of Sterling, for Buff
Shanghaies.

Fourth premium, ^2, to Frederick Eaton, of Worcester, for
six Black Spanish and four Shanghaies.

Fifth premium, ^1, to Jonathan Rice, of Worcester, twelve
Shanghaies.

Charles Jewett, of Millbury, exhibited thirty-two fowls, a
cross breed of the Buff and Black Shanghaies, decidedly the
best specimens offered. He would have been entitled to the
first premium if they had been entered according to the rules
of the society.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 141

The committee recommend that a copy of Coleman's
" Agricultural Tour in Europe" be awarded to Mr. Jewett, as a
gratuity, for the service he is rendering the community by his
endeavors to ascertain and introduce the best varieties of do-
mestic fowls.

Thomas Drew, of Worcester, was the owner of the only
ducks offered for premium. They were of the half Poland
breed, and in the opinion of the committee he is entitled to a
premium of $3.

The committee are of opinion that the raising of poultry
for the market is not claiming that attention from the farmer
which its importance demands. In the city of Boston, alone,
in 1848, the sales of poultry amounted to $1,000,000, and
that of eggs to nearly or quite the same. The demand will
increase with the population, and there is no danger of over-
stocking the market. If farmers and others would have suita-
ble enclosures for fowls during the winter, and also while their
seeds are exposed to their depredations, and at other times
would allow them the free range of their premises, they would
nearly pay for such extra care by their destruction of trouble-
some insects.

By order of the committee,

Anthony Chase, Chairman.

Cheese.

Your committee considered themselves very fortunate in
finding most of their members punctual in their attendance.
A single vacancy, occasioned by the absence of Mrs. Tidd, of
New Braintree, was filled by the unanimous selection of Mrs.
David Lee, of Barre, — a very successful cheese-maker, and
unquestionably a good committee- wflw. The committee, or
the male portion thereof, at all events, cannot speak too highly
of the arrangement, by which the ladies are associated with
them on this important subject. They have derived great
" aid and comfort" from their superior judgment in such mat-
ters, and trust that no competitor whatever, will for a moment
question the decisions of such impartial and unerring judges.

142 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

" On this subject," in the language of the orator at your first
anniversary, (our honored Ex-Gov. Lincoln,) " the ladies should
indeed be the helpers of our joy. Our societies, so far as may
be within the scope of their operations, should solicit that
countenance, which is more than the magical stores of genius
and science can lavish, — commerce or the coffers of wealth
bestow."

Upon the importance of the subject before the committee, a
word or two may be desirable. The manufacture of cheese is
undoubtedly an invention of great antiquity. It is repeatedly
referred to in the Old Testament, — the ancient books of Job
and Samuel, — and is frequently mentioned in the works of
Diodorus Siculus, of Strabo, and other Latin authors. Early
in the Christian era, the Britons were celebrated for its manu-
facture, and England has preserved that reputation to the pre-
sent day. On the continent, the German and Alpine cheeses
made from the milk of the cow and the sheep, were held in
high esteem, as early as the second century. England, how-
ever, stands unrivalled for those products, in more modern
times. In the county of Cheshire alone, it has been estimated
that there are annually produced over 15,000 tons of cheese ;
while in the county of Warwick, which is more favorably
located for its market, over 30,000 tons are annually sent
to the cities of Birmingham and London. We are all
aware, too, of the famous qualities for which English cheeses
are remarkable. The celebrated Stilton cheese, manufactured
in Leicestershire, is regarded as one of the richest and most
highly flavored. It is not considered fit for cutting until two
years of age, and is generally unsaleable unless it be decayed,
blue, and moist in appearance. In Scotland the Dunlop
cheese is considered one of their best varieties, but otherwise,
that country is not particularly celebrated in its manufacture"
Modern Swiss cheese, especially that denominated Gruyere, is
held in high estimation by many; though your chairman, from
a somewhat recent and odorous acquaintance with one speci-
men of Swiss cheese, begs leave to differ in taste with its nu-
merous admirers.

In regard to American manufactures of this important arti-
cle, I need not claim your attention. At the last exhibition of
this society, our farmers had an opportunity of examining spe-

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 143

cimens of cheese from N. York, and we may hope for similar
favors from other States, at our future anniversaries. Much
good may result, from a comparison of our own products, with
those of other States and countries.

From our own county of Worcester, your committee were
pleased to find an excellent collection of cheeses, in quality
certainly, if not in quantity. They would, however, urge upon
the farmers of the county, and more particularly upon their wives
and daughters, who are or should be interested in this matter,
the duty of sending specimens of their skill from all sections of
the county, in order that a larger number of dairies may be
represented, and all competitors be benefitted by the compari-
son. Your committee are induced to allude to this subject, as
it is a well known fact, that a majority of the entries are
almost uniformly from the somewhat celebrated town of New
Braintree. It is not a little singular, that the first and only
premium for cheese at the first anniversary of this society,
thirty-three years ago, was awarded to " Messrs. John & Dan-
iel Hunter, of New Braintree," and that, at nearly all, if not
all, their exhibitions, a majority of premiums have been be-
stowed on citizens of that town. It is an honor to that place,
but there is no reason why other towns should not emulate
their success.

Upon examining the list of entries submitted to their inspec-
tion, your committee found in the whole, thirteen lots of cheese.
According to the rules of the society, each lot consisted of not
less than 100 lbs. of the manufacture of the same person, and
all new cheese exhibited, was certified to have been made in the
month of June. The entries of new cheese were as follows : —

Lot No. 1, Hiram S. Harwood, of Barre, . 7 cheeses, 108 lbs.

" 2, Jason Wilson, of Spencer, .

'•' 3, Samuel Ellsworth, of Barre,

" 4, L. Converse, of N. Braintree,

" 5, Asel L. Clark, «

" 6, Moses Thompson, "

" 7, Job Rainger, «

« 8, Charles Wilcox, «

« 9, Arba Bridges, of Warren, . . 4 " 100

« 10, John Washburn, of Barre, . . 4 " 126

115 «

118 «

125 «

106 «

110 «

119 "

105 «

144 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Of the old cheese, there were three entries : —

Lot No. 1, Lorenzo Converse, N. Braintree, 6 cheeses, 142 lbs.
« 2, Asel L. Clark, « 4 " 107 "

« 3, Charles Wilcox, " 5 " 105 "

After a careful and impartial examination of the different
lots exhibited, your committee decided upon the following
distribution of premiums :

For new cheese, they awarded the

1st premium of $8, for lot No. 7, to Job Rainger, N. Braintree.

9, to Arba Bridges, Warren.
5, to Asel L. Clark, N. Braintree.
8, to Charles Wilcox, »
10, to John Washburn, Barre.

For old cheese, they awarded as follows :

1st premium of $6, for lot No. 3, to Asel L. Clark, N. Braintree.
2d " of 4, " 1, to Lorenzo Converse, "

In conclusion, the committee would state, that their prefer-
ence for one lot above another, was in several instances very
slight, and that in these cases, they were guided either by the
superior flavor, or by the general evenness of the cheese.
They would further add, that in the plan adopted by the com-
mittee, the names of the competitors were unknown to them,
until after the decisions were made.

All which is respectfully submitted,

Wm. S. Barton, Chairman.

((

4th

5th

Butter.

Mr. President, and gentlemen of the society : The committee
appointed to inspect the butter offered for exhibition at this
our annual festive gathering, have carefully attended to. the
pleasing duty assigned to them, and through me, their chair-
man, submit the following report : —

The original committee presented themselves, to a man, with
the single exception of Mr. Emmons Twichell, of Brookfield ;
he was absent, and we pressed Mr. Joel Flagg, of Worcester,

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 145

into our service, and with him, applied ourselves to the duties
devolving upon us.

The butter presented was less in quantity than on some pre-
vious occasions, and consisted of fourteen lots entered for pre-
mium, and one for exhibition.

Of those who entered butter for premium, six had failed to
comply with the regulations of the society, and of course their
claims were passed over in silence. To the remaining eight
lots the committee proceeded to apply every test known to
civilized butter judges — they smelled and tasted the butter,
viewed carefully its color, and then, while the chairman stood
aloof, placed their heads together and turned out the following
premiums : —

To Mr. Silas Bailey, of Boylston, they award the first pre-
mium— a piece of silver plate, with an appropriate inscription.
For an inscription, the committee suggest the following: Wo-
man's rights — to win the prize; husband's rights — to take it.

The second premium, of $6, Mr. L. B. Hapgood, of Shrews-
bury, can have by calling for it.

The third premium, of $4, we assigned to Mr. Amos F.
Knights, of West Boylston ; while the butter presented by Mr.
Willard Allen, of Holden, was considered worthy of the fourth
premium, of $3.

The fifth premium we did not think fairly earned by any
competitor and consequently direct the treasurer to retain the
same for the use of the society.

Thus having disposed of all the funds intrusted to their
tender keeping, the committee lost that anxious and important
look which had set so long upon their countenances, and, un-
bending a little, they desired their chairman to sound one note
in praise of lot No. 14, offered by Mr. William S. Lincoln, of
Worcester, of 14 pounds. It was certainly a most beautiful
lot of butter, and had the quantity come up to the rules, viz.,
twenty pounds, could not have failed to secure a premium.
Mr. Prentiss, of Auburn, presented a lot of eighteen pounds,
too late for entry, but the committee say to him with pleasure,
that with one exception, they saw no finer butter on the tables.
A trifle less salt, and strict compliance with the rules, would
have secured him one of the highest premiums.

George S. Taft, Chairman.
19

146 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Note. — I subjoin, as matter of interest, a condensed statement of the produce of
the dairies of the several competitors. Whence this wide difference in the amount of
return of this branch of husbandry ? Is it from superiority in the animals ? from the
better quality of pasture ? or from greater skill or better management in the dairy ?
or from all combined ? The inquiry becomes important ; since the difference in the
yield per head is sufficient to render the business barely remunerative in the hands of
one, highly profitable under the management of another.
Jabez Rice — Dairy of 7 cows and 1 three-year old heifer, besides 2
two years old since July 3d — made, between "June 1st and Sep-
tember 10th," 717 lbs. Butter.

A. Crosby — Dairy of from 7 to 9 cows— made, between " June 1st and

September 22d," 575 " "

M. J. Maynaui) — Dairy of 7 cows and 1 two years old heifer — made,

since June 1st, - - - - - - - 569 " "

A. F. Knight — Dairy of 9 cows and 2 heifers — made, from June 1st to

September 10th, 642 " «

S. Bailey — Dairy of 6 cows and 2 three years old heifers — made, from

June 1st to September 10th, - - - - - 531 " "
and cheese for use of family.
N. Stone — Dairy of 7 cows — made, from June 1st to September 10th, 500 " '•
S. Severy — Dairy of 4 cows— made, from June 1st to September 10th, 351 " "
William Eames — Dairy of 3 cows — made from June 1st to Septem-
ber 10th, - -218 " "

and sold the night's milk from July 20 to September 1.
W. Allen — Dairy of 6 cows ; of these one did not calve till June 14th,

and another July 20th — made, from June 1st to September 10th, 458 " "
L. B. Hapgood — Dairy of 10 cows — made, from June 1st to September

' 10th, 733 " "

H. Bailey — Dairy of 6 cows — made, from June 10th to September

10th, 300 lbs. cheese, and - - - - - - 400 " "

W. S. Lincoln — Dairy of 4 cows, 1 three years old and 2 two years

old heifers — made, from June 1st to September 10th, - - 635 " "

and sold cream to amount of !$o.

W. S. L., Secretary.

Bulls.

The committee on bulls of one year old and upwards, sub-
mit the following report :

There was assigned to your committee the duty which has
heretofore been divided between two committees, to wit : to
award the premiums on bulls of two years old and upwards,
and under two years of age ; making two classes, and two sets
of premiums.

The entries of bulls of two years and upwards, were as fol-
lows:

Worcester Agricultural Society, Ayrshire, six years and five
months old.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 147

Worcester Agricultural Society, North Devon, five years and
six months old.

Silas Bailey, Boylston, seven-eighths Devon and one-eighth
Durham, two years old.

John D. Lovell, West Boylston, three-fourths Devon and one-
fourth Durham, four years old.

Marshall J. Maynard, Northborough, Durham, three years
and two months old.

S. Chadwick, Worcester, three-fourths Durham, five years and
three months old.

Calvin Sanford, Barre, Durham, seven years old.

Samuel Ellsworth, Barre, Durham, four years old.

Henry J. Reed, Princeton, seven-eighths Devon, two years old.

Nathan B. Reed, Boylston, seven-eighths Devon, two years
old.

Andrew March, JVIillbury, seven-eighths Durham, three years
old.

John McLellan, Sutton, one-half Devon, two and a half
years old.

Russell A. Davis, Oxford, half Devon, two years old.

Asa Holbrook, Holden, half Devon half Durham, three
years old.

The bulls, with two or three exceptions, were all remarkably
fine animals of their respective breeds ; and the collection, as
a whole, it is believed, greatly surpassed that of any previous
exhibition.

The stock is put down in this report as to the cross, or
admixture of blood, as it was found described by the com-
petitors. But it is well known to those at all acquainted with
the Devon stock, that it is remarkable for transmitting its own
character ; so that the description on some of the cards, " half
Devon and half native " did not describe the appearance of the
stock with any degree of accuracy; inasmuch as some of the
animals marked in this way were almost exclusively Devon in
their characteristics. And the same variations existed, though
in less degree, with the Durhams and their admixtures.

The Durhams were remarkably fine animals, and so were
the Devons, and to decide between them, necessarily raised a
question in the committee, which is of the highest importance,

148 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

and which can be settled only by experiment among farmers,
to wit: which is the best stock for Worcester county, the Dur-
ham and its admixtures, or the Devon and its admixtures ?
Upon this question the committee were equally divided. The
result of this division of opinion in the committee, was that
the chairman had to decide for the committee in awarding the
two first premiums " for bulls of two years old and upwards."

The chairman, it is well understood by the society, is the
mere servant of the committee, whose duty it is to wait on the
committee during their examinations, and report their decisions
to the society, with this single exception, when the committee
is equally divided in opinion, so that it cannot come to a re-
sult, the duty of deciding then devolves upon the chairman.

Through the action of the chairman, the premiums " on
bulls of two years and upwards," were awarded as follows :

To Calvin Sanford, of Barre, for his Durham bull, $10.
To Russell A. Davis, of Oxford, for his Devon bull, $8.
To Asa Holbrook, of Holden, for his Devon and Durham, $5.

The entries of bulls under two years old, were as follows :

Nathaniel Dodge, Sutton, North Devon, one year and three
months.

Ward N. Boylston, Princeton, Devon, one year and four mos.

Alanson Park, Millbury, half Ayrshire, one year and three
months.

Alpheus Davis, Charlton, half Creampot, one year.

The committee awarded the premiums under this class as
follows :

To Nathaniel Dodge, Sutton, for his Devon, $8.

To Alanson Park, Millbury, for his Ayrshire and native, |6.

To Alpheus Davis, Charlton, for his Creampot and native,

$4.

The members of the society cannot fail to perceive that there
is great diversity of opinion among the farmers of Worcester
county upon the question, which is the best stock of pure blood,
or if not pure, how it shall be mixed, for Worcester county ?
And all that they can require of a committee is, the exercise
of an independent judgment by each individual composing

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 149

the committee. And it is but justice to the four gentlemen
composing this committee, for the chairman to say that he be-
lieves they acted with just integrity to the society, and entire
impartiality towards the competitors.

L. A. Maynard, Chairman.

Farms.

The committee on farms, report but one claim to the society's
premium for the best managed farm. This is made by Mr.
Holloway Bailey. The committee visited Mr. Bailey in June,
when they propounded a series of questions, his answers to
which are annexed, and will indicate their character. Mr.
Bailey's farm lies in the north-east part of Northborough, and
contains one hundred and fifty or two hundred acres of land ;
the soil is a sandy loam, a part of it based upon a gravel sub-
soil, and a part upon clay and gravel; is generally light, but
under the excellent management of Mr. Bailey, produces good
crops.

The committee award Mr. Bailey the society's premium of
fifteen dollars.

John Brooks, Chairman.

Holloway Bailei/s Statement.

Gentlemen, — I submit, respectfully, to your consideration,
the following condensed answers to the questions proposed :

1st. The farm has never been surveyed, but it contains, by
estimation, from 150 to 200 acres ; the soil is generally good,
consisting of pure, sandy or gravelly loam, subsoil generally
gravelly. Upon the field where the corn of the last season was
grown, the subsoil is of clay; this field seeded down upon the
Indian hills, yielded a good crop of hay the present dry season.

2d. The farm is divided, by estimation, into mowing land,
50 acres ; tillage, 8 acres ; the remainder, excepting 30 acres
wood and sprout land, pasturage and unimproved land.

150 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

3d. The crops consist of corn, rye, and potatoes ; land cul-
tivated and quantities produced as follows : five acres of corn
yielding 150 bushels, or 30 bushels per acre ; two acres of rye,
yielding 40 bushels, or 20 bushels per acre ; one acre of pota-
toes yielding 100 bushels. To these may also be added, the
crop of hay, annually about 40 tons. All these crops, with
few and unimportant exceptions, are consumed on the farm.

4th and 5th. The stock consists of four oxen, ten cows, one
yearling, two horses and two colts; the cattle are of a mixed
breed of Durham and Holderness. The product of the milch
cows is 1,000 lbs. of butter, and 300 lbs. of cheese annually,
besides the milk furnished for the consumption of the family,
or 78 gallons per year; 750 lbs. of butter are annually sold;
from the sour milk, whey, &c., eight hogs are fatted.

7th. In preparing the ground for my grain crops, I plough
a depth of from seven to ten inches, for potatoes to a greater
depth where it is possible without disturbing the subsoil. I
used the subsoil plough during one season — no change was
perceptible in the crop of hay, but the fall feed was better
where it was used than in other parts of the field.

8th. The manures employed are composts of loam and mud
with the excrements. After lying in the yard until by plough-
ing and harrowing they are thoroughly mixed and composted,
they are heaped up and remain until October, when they are
earned out and laid in heaps of eight or ten loads in the tillage
lands for the ensuing year, and also in small heaps upon the
mowing lands. Green manure is also drawn from the barn
in the spring upon the tillage lands, laid in small heaps and
spread. The hog manure is drawn out in the spring, laid
in the same large heaps upon the barnyard manure, and com-
posted therewith. About 100 loads are annually applied to
the tillage lands and about 70 to the mowing and irrigated
lands.

9th. In the composting of manures in these yards, both
meadow mud and soil are used in quantities varying from»60
to 100 loads annually.

10th and 11th. I use no artificial manures except gypsum,
nor any liquid manure separately from the solid. I am, how-
ever, inclined to the opinion, from an experiment made two
years ago upon a somewhat exhausted field, that soil, or sandy

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 151

loam, thoroughly saturated with urine, is of equal value as a
renovator of the soil, with our best solid manures.

12th. My irrigated land is about six acres, and in irrigating
it, I convey the water in ditches, and from them throw out the
water as required. Upon these lands a compost of horse ma-
nure and sandy loam being spread at the rate of seven cart
loads per acre, produces a crop of two tons of hay per acre.

13th. My grasses are herds-grass, clover and redtop. I
sow a mixture of a peck and a half of herds-grass, three pounds
of clover, and two quarts of redtop when I sow my spring
grain. Last year I sowed upon the Indian hills of my corn
field at the spring hoeing.

14th. The rotation of my crops is as follows : the first year
after turning the sward, I plant with corn or potatoes ; the
second year I sow oats, barley, or rye, and seed down to grass.
The length of time in which I allow a field of grass to lie, is
three or four years.

15th. In order to prevent the impoverishment of natural
English mowing, I spread manure upon it in fall or spring, at
the rate of five or six loads per acre.

16th. My fruit trees are peach, pear, plum and apple. One
hundred and fifty of my apple trees are in a bearing state ; 110
of which are engrafted with the following kinds : — Pearmain,
Porter, Lyscomb, Baldwin, Golden Russet, Summer Sweeting,
Ribstone, Hubbardston Nonesuch, Hamburg, Ladies' Blush,
Bell, and Gillyflower. Besides the 150 trees in a bearing state,
is an orchard of 40 young trees, which were set during the two
last years. I have 50 barrels of apples the present season,
which is not the bearing year. My winter apples are gathered
in September, laid in heaps in a dry chamber until October,
when they are barrelled and kept from moisture in the open
air till freezing weather, when they are carried to the cellar.
17th. The annual expenses of the farm are as follows : —

Value of provisions consumed annually by the family, $300 00
Value of labor required in carrying on the farm, . 447 50
Incidental expenses, . . . . . 100 00

Total, ^847 50

18th. In determining the annual income of my farm, I

152 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

have' ascertained the values of the several kinds of produce
by multiplying tons, pounds or bushels, by the usual price per
ton, pound or bushel.

Adding these several values, the result arrived at, as

the annual income, is . . . .f 1,082 00

19th. During the last five years, as improvements on my
farm, I have converted a piece of rocky, stubborn pasture land
into good arable tillage land, on which some of my young
trees above mentioned are set. I have laid 300 rods of wall,
at an average expense of $2 per rod. About eight acres of
upland pasture has been reclaimed at an expense of ^10 per
acre. I have also reclaimed a piece of meadow land, consist-
ing of 200 square rods, first draining and then ploughing;
upon it, as ploughed when still wet, a top-dressing of sand was
applied ; horse manure was then carted upon the land at the
rate of seven loads per acre, and upon this the seed was sown,
haiTowed in with a light harrow, and rolled. It is now ma-
nured annually in the fall, with a compost of horse manure
and sand, and where before a half dozen heaps of sour, insipid
or tasteless herbage was with difficulty obtained, I now cut at
the rate of 2^ tons hay per acre. This change has been
wrought at an average expense of $20 per acre.

NORTHBOROUGH, Oct. 22, 1852.

Meadow, Swamp, and Uplands.

In commencing their report, the committee cannot refrain
from expressing their sorrow for the bereavement the society
has recently sustained by the loss of their late president, and
chairman of this committee. By his death tha society is called
to mourn the loss of a much respected officer, and the public
are deprived of an able report, which his knowledge and ability
would have enabled him to make upon the subject referred to
this committee.

There is an entry of three lots of land claiming the society's
premiums for improved meadows, swamps and uplands ; they
are all made by Mr. Harvey Dodge, of Sutton, and are for im-

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 153

provement on uplands. Mr. Dodge's farm lies in the north-east
part of Sutton, on a slope of land descending to the north,
and contains 100 acres. Lot No. 1 is on the south side
of the road, and contains 2 acres and 129| rods ; lot No. 2 is
on the north side of the road, and contains 4 acres and 115
rods; lot No. 3 is on the north side of the road, opposite No.
1, west of and adjoining No. 2. The general aspect of the soil
is black mould mixed with sand ; the subsoil is comminuted
sand mixed with clay, and is retentive of water. The improve-
ments claimed are for cutting brush, removing stone walls,
irrigating, and under-draining. The lot on the south side of
the road is 13 rods wide and 33 rods long, has a drain on each
side and through the middle, leaving the space between them
6^ rods wide. These drains are cut in the line of steepest
ascent of the land, with lateral drains running into the outside
ones at an angle of about 30 or 40 degrees, 6^ rods apart.

Lot No. 3 has two drains cut across it in a diagonal direc-
tion, about 6| rods apart. The drains are all from 3 to 3| feet
deep, and filled with stones, which form a conduit to convey-
away the water. From the knowledge one of the commit-
tee has heretofore had of these lands, and from their present
appearance, it is evident that the improvements made upon
them by Mr. Dodge have added very much to their productions
and value. Where formerly grew nothing but brush or worth-
less herbage, now grows from two and a half to three tons of
good upland hay to the acre annually. The drainage water
from lot No. 1, on the south side of the road, Mr. Dodge uses
for irrigating lot No. 2, and some other land on the north side,
the effect of which is commensurate to that of the draining on
the south of the road, a part of it producing the present year a
good crop of oats, and the remainder from two and a half to
three tons of hay to the acre. Besides the improvement by
draining, Mr. Dodge is understood to entertain the opinion
that the saving of land by sinking his walls into drains, and
the advantage of large over small fields in cultivation, pays a
considerable portion of the expense. In this opinion the com-
mittee do not fully concur, believing that where stone fencing
material is plenty, small lots are preferable. Frequent fences
prevent the blowing away of the debris and other vegetable
matter always prevalent on the surface, retain the snow in
20

154 Worcester society.

winter, and the fertilizing matter derived from it, and if used
for pasture, twenty acres divided into four or five lots will
pasture more stock than if fed in one lot. For the improve-
ment on these lands by removing stones, brush, &c., Mi:.
Dodge deserves commendation ; and by the improvement con-
sequent to irrigation and drainage, he affords an example to
all, possessing wet cold lands, worthy of imitation. It is an
old adage that water is wealth ; and ancient history informs
us, that the early and most successful efforts of agriculture
were directed to the supply of water to the various objects
of cultivation. The promise made to the Israelites was,
" The land whither thou goest in to possess it, is not as the
land of Egypt, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst
it with thy foot as a garden of herbs : but the land whither
thou goest is a land of hills and valleys, and drinketh water
of the rain of heaven." Verily, our land is a land of hills and
valleys, and some of it drinketh water of the rain of heaven to
repletion. Irrigation and drainage are two modes by which
the cultivator of the soil may, under different circumstances,
dispose of water : some may score the surface of their thirsty
fields with water courses, and court the presence of water, to
supply the wants of vegetation, while others, finding their
lands within the debatable margin of two elements, must
encounter it as the worst enemy to successful cultivation. The
practice of Mr. Dodge is not in accordance with the opinion
entertained by the committee, as to depth, direction, and dis-
tance apart, drains should be cut; Mr. Dodge has cut his
drains from three to three and a half feet deep, some of them
oblique to the steepest ascents of the land, and six and a half
rods apart. The committee believe that drains, to produce the
best efiect, should never be cut less than four and a half feet
deep, always if practicable in the steepest ascent of the land,
and not more than 36 or 40 feet apart. - For thus differing
with the practice of so distinguished an agriculturist as Mr.
Dodge, the committee feel that they should give a reason. It
is well known that evaporation produces cold ; how much the
evaporation of one pound of water of drainage, from one hun-
dred pounds of soil, will reduce its temperature, the committee
cannot say ; there are scientific reasons to show that it cannot
be less than 10 degrees. This cold is the principal cause of

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 155

the unprodudtiveness of our wet, swaley, and some of our hill
lands, and must be removed, before the most valuable results
can be obtained by cultivation. The most obvious way of
doing this, is by draining, and the question arises, how drains
should be cut to produce the best effect? Water will rise by
capillary attraction in wet retentive soil, 18 or 20 inches ;
wateer oozing from wet soils into a drain 30 inches deep, is
one or two degrees colder in the vegetating season than water
oozing from the same soil into a drain four feet deep, and the
latter is generally colder than the water in a contiguous well.
From this we may conclude that the influence of evaporation
is considerable at thirty inches, less at four feet, and little or
nothing at greater depths. The water, then, must be laid
thirty inches below the surface to protect it against the influ-
ence of evaporation, eighteen inches to guai'd against attrac-
tion, or four feet in all, to protect the land against the cold
produced by the two causes combined. The temperature of
water drawn from a wet soil into drains three feet deep is sel-
dom higher in the vegetating season than 50 degrees ; air
above the surface of the earth at the same time is often 80 or
90 degrees, and sometimes much higher; drains then four feet
deep draw out water of 50 degrees temperature, every particle
of which is replaced during the season of vegetation, by air
and rain water of a much higher temperature, constantly
warming and assimilating the soil to the depth of the drain, to
their own temperature. Thus, drained lands, in the season of
vegetation, are 10 or 15 degrees warmer than undrained lands;
in winter, when the air and water above the earth's surface is
generally colder than the soil below, drained lands are colder
than undrained lands. This is no disadvantage ; for, in our
climate, plants do not suffer so much from cold in winter, as
from a deficiency of warmth in summer — the frost descends?
disintegrates the soil deeper, becoming a good substitute for
subsoil ploughing. Feculent water, filtered through 30 inches
of retentive soil, comes out more or less colored, but when
filtered through four feet of the same soil, comes out nearly
pure, leaving most of its fertilizing matter in the soil to aid
the growth of plants. Water gets into the drains by gravity,
or fall, the upper particles pressing upon those below, shoving
them aside, in the line of least resistance, which is the drain,

156 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

and the quantities of water discharged in equal times by drains
are nearly as the square root of their depth. While a three-
foot drain is discharging ly"oVo pounds of water, a drain four
feet deep will discharge 2 pounds, thus draining the land ear-
lier in the spring, and sooner after a rain.

Drains should be cut in the steepest ascent of the land ;
when cut oblique to this line, the tendency of the water will
be to hang upon and gully out, and settle into, the lower side
of the drain, choking the conduit with soil, and imperfectly
draining the land. The only obstacle to water flowing into
drains is the friction of its particles with those of the soil ; to
overcome this a fall of about a quarter of an inch to a foot is
required; therefore, to place the water below the influence of
evaporation, and drain the land at the point intermediate be-
tween two drains four and a half feet deep, they should not be
cut on level land more than thirty-six or forty feet apart. Mr.
Dodge's drains being six and a half rods from each other, and
only three and a half feet deep, will not on level land drain it
at the intermediate point between any two of them more than
about twenty-eight inches deep. The water having to strug-
gle through the soil a distance of nearly fifty-four feet to get
into either drain, will require a fall of fourteen inches, which
taken from three and a half feet, leaves twenty-eight inches,
the depth to which the land would be drained at the interme-
diate points. The cold produced by the influence of evapora-
tion on water twenty-eight inches below the surface, will in a
few years kill out the better upland, and encourage the growth
of the sour, swaley, grass.

The committee award to Mr. Dodge, for the best conducted
experiment on not less than two acres of upland, by under-
draining, the society's first premium of fifteen dollars, and for
the best conducted experiment, on not less than two acres of
upland, by irrigation, the society's second premium of ten dol-
lars.

In closing, the committee congratulate the trustees on .the
advancement of agriculture in this county, since the organiza-
tion of this society. Farming is taking a stand among other
professions, which the importance of agriculture justly de-
mands. Clubs are formed in many towns, and are numer-
ously attended, practical and theoretical discussions take place

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 157

at farmers' meetings, agricultural journals are more generally-
read, and there has grown up an intellectual activity, among
those connected with the cultivation of the soil, giving a high-
er tone to agricultural writings, which will lead, as high mental
efforts always have done, in all other arts, to a more rapid ad-
vancement of the art of culture, and to a more general applica-
tion of improved methods of fertilizing the soil. Much of this
is due to past officers and the members of this society, and we
trust they will long continue to stimulate the rural population
of the country, and diffuse among them the elements of practi-
cal and scientific knowledge, and their application to agricul
ture.

John Brooks, Chairman.

Harvey Dodged Statement.

The first lot of land that I offer for the society's premium,
contains by measurement two and three-quarter acres nine and
a half rods, and, until August, 1849, was enclosed on all sides
by an old dilapidated stone wall, w^hich had been thrown up
from time to time with small stones from the adjoining lots,
as the object had been rather to get rid of the small stones
than to build a convenient wall.

At the time I commenced operations this wall occupied six
feet of land as its foundation, and had become so poor that it
was not sufficient to prevent cattle from walking over it.

To do justice to myself in describing the method I took in
reforming this and the other lots adjoining, I shall be obliged
to speak of the location of my farm as well as the quality of
its soils to some extent.

My farm, on which this reformed upland is situated, is in
the north-easterly part of Sutton, one-half mile south of the
valley of the Blackstone River, and the same distance from the
Providence and Worcester Railroad at that place.

My farm is what we term in Worcester county hill land, and
is situated about 200 feet above the bed of the Blackstone
River, where it passes the Sutton Railroad station.

My buildings are situated near the centre of the farm, con-
taining one hundred acres.

Last March I employed an accomplished surveyor and

158 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

draftsman to take a survey of each of my home lots by point
and compass, and had a plan of them drawn on a map, solely
for my own agricultural accommodation.

The road through the farm runs nearly an east and west
course, and the buildings stand a few degrees higher than the
extreme east or west terminus of the road. The descent from
south to north was found to be eight inches to every sixteen
feet south of the road, and twelve inches to the rod north of
the road.

The length of the farm, north and south, was found to be
150 rods, and as the road runs east and west, its length is 110
rods, so it will be noticed that this road runs nearly central-
wise of the farm, dividing it north and south in nearly equal
portions, and it will be observed that the descent north of the
road is one-third greater than it is on the south side.

The committee will see that I have been obliged to go into
detail as to situation and location of the farm, in order to show
why I take this method to reform the different lots. This lot,
as above described in part, was, until August last, situated
directly south of my barn, one corner of the lot coming within
four rods of it, and at that time it was one of the most un-
sightly lots on the farm. It had always been used, or at least
for a hundred years, as a pasture, and its principal products
had been white birch, hardback, and brakes to fill up the inter-
mediate spaces, and all attempts had proved failures to kill out
the brush with the scythe, or plough, on account of the rocks.
The soil had always been considered poor. For about four
inches of the surface the soil was black, with a yellow, gravelly
subsoil, quite unlike that of the surrounding fields, whose sub-
soil is yellow loam, bearing on a chalky subsoil. Immediately
above this lot the land is swampy, and the consequence was
that water from above has been constantly leaking down
through this pasture. In winter it would flow over on to the
surface, freeze and kill out the grass, and until June would be
so wet as to prevent cattle from passing over it.

At the time I commenced operations, in 1840, the committee
on carrots were here to view a crop which had been entered
for premium, and they appraised its value for agricultural pur-
poses at $17 per acre.

My plan was to underdrain this, as well as some of my ad-

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 159

joining lots. This lot was about thirty-three rods in length
north and south, and thirteen east and west, with one of these
old walls, similar to the one which I have already described,
on each side the whole length, making sixty-six rods. I cut a
ditch close by the side of the wall, on the west side, three and
a half feet deep and three and a half wide, and on the east
side three and a half by four, and on this side the old wall was
tumbled into the ditch, and small flat stones were placed care-
fully on the top, old straw and brakes were thrown in over
these, which filled the ditch within six inches of the surface,
and the soil, so far as needed, was brought over the trench
with a light cast iron ox shovel, and this is used for a road in
carting to lots above. The ditch on the other side of the lot
was filled, first by laying stones at the sides ten inches high,
and covering with flat stones, and then all the small stones
from the old wall were thrown in, the ditch filled to within eight
inches of the top, the surface stones levelled, poor hay and
straw thrown on, and the soil brought back as before. The
remainder of the subsoil was carted and used for grading up
the low places within the ditches. The next thing to be done
was to cut a drain centre-wise the whole length of the lot,
three and a half feet wide by three deep; this was stoned up
twelve inches at the sides and covered with flat stones, all of
which were taken from the surface between the two first drains,
and filled with small stones even with the surface soil, and left
open to catch the surface water in winter. The brush and
brake roots were broken off" by the plow, and piled in heaps to
burn. This left the surface soil comparatively smooth, with
the top soil covered with small stones. It will be perceived
that these three drains lengthwise were six and a half rods
from each other. Drains were now cut anglewise between
these drains, so that the water was principally emptied into
the outside drains. These were cut once in six rods and two
and a half by three feet, and filled with stones to within eight
inches of the top, and covered as the others, and the surplus
subsoil used for grading the low places.

The next object which I wished to accomplish was to sink
the larger rocks. This was done by digging a hole on, the
lower side of the stone, usually twice as deep and large as the
stone, and drop the stone in, then fill up the vacancy to within

160 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

about twelve inches of the top, and the soil was then thrown
in witli the ox shovel as on the drains. These boulders varied
in size all the way from a bushel basket to a molasses hogs-
head, and there were some few much larger. I will here state
this has been my practice of getting rid of large as well as
small stones for several years, and I find it decidedly cheaper
than blasting and building large and needless walls. The
next process was to plough, which I was enabled to do in a
pretty thorough manner, the drains and stone holes having
taken up all the surplus stones as deep as I wished to run a
plough. I ploughed and harrowed several times during the fall
of 1849. In the spring I found no difficulty in working the land
early on account of wetness, and in June and July, after seve-
ral workings, forty loads of manure, containing twenty -five
bushels each, were carted on to the acre on one part, and
ground bones to the same value on to a part, side by side, and
about one-half the lot was sowed to turnips the 1st of August.
The other part was not cropped that season, as the ground
was not mellow enough to secure a crop. (Bones succeeded
well with turnips, but the grass as yet has been lighter.) Dur-
ing the fall of 1850, this idle part was frequently worked over
and manured as the other was the year before, and it was
sowed to turnips July 15th, and the crop gave about 700 bush-
els to the acre on either side.

The half sowed to turnips in 1850 was sowed to oats in 1851,
and the last half, in May, 1852, with grass seed, and at this
time the whole lot is seeded to grass. A precise account has
been kept of the labor and manures and the amount of crops
to this time, excepting the hay on a part of the lot the present
season, which was estimated, and could not have valued much.
I paid by contract for cutting drains $52 92. Manure at the
stable was reckoned, at $1 per load, $95. Bone dust, fifty
bushels at forty cents, $20. All other labor, up to harvesting
the first crop, $91 60— making a sum total of $259 50. The
whole amount of crops taken oft" up to this time $172, after
paying all expense of tillage and harvesting — leaving the lot
in debt $86 50, which sum, with interest, I have no hesitation
in saying, may be realized without any other labor than gath-
ering the crops within the two coming years.

The lots on the east and west sides receive as much benefit

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 161

from the two outer drains as this lot. In cutting over 200
rods of underdrainage, as well as digging for bank walls, I
have found no stones of any amount in any of my soils three
feet underground, and this may account for my being able to
sink large stones cheaper than disposing of them otherwise.
It will be remembered that in throwing down these walls I
save twelve feet in width and 544 feet in length of land;
whereas, if I had cleared this lot of its rocks in the usual way,
by digging, drawing, and piling up against the old wall, the
stones would have required in all about one-half acre of land
to stand on. My plan has been to sink all the stones in sight,
as well as all the needless old walls, and to turn several lots
into one, instead of dividing one lot into many. Your com-
mittee will recollect of my pointing out to them the different
parcels and lots of land which were formerly divided into eight
lots of all sizes and shapes, and where partition walls to the
amount of 107 rods of old walls in a ruinous condition had
been used to fill six hundred rods of underdrainage. All of
these eight small lots formerly composed of here a pasture and
there a mowing, have been turned into one lot containing
twenty-two acres one and a half rods, and as many as eight
acres were as rough as the one described.

Lot No. 2, contains four acres, two quarters, thirty-five rods.
It is situated on the north side of the road, and from fifteen to
twenty rods north-east of the above described lot, having al-
ways been used as a pasture until August, 1849. The soil
was naturally good ; four inches of the surface soil being a
dark mellow loam, with a friable chalky subsoil, naturally
much more dry than any of my opposite lots on the south side
of the road. This land had been noted for being rocky, so
much so that it seemed impossible to drive a plough through
it. Clumps or bunches of brakes and white-bush had rather
increased, instead of diminishing, for the last twenty years,
notwithstanding I had paid out from three to five dollars yearly
for mowing brush for several years.

Late in May, 1848, 1 turned some twenty hogs into this pas-
ture, keeping them in part from the piggery till the first of
October, and so again in 1849. My expectation was that they
would root up the ground, and consequently kill out the brush;
but in this I was mistaken. They seemed determined to go
21

162 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

on with operations just so far as suited their own convenience
and no farther. It would be doing the herd of swine no more
than justice to say that they turned up all the small stones to
view, as well as removed some of the brush from others, so that
at the commencement of my operations this lot presented any-
thing but a desirable aspect.

In August, 1849, I commenced sinking the large stones,
which were about the same size of those in lot No. 1, and the
same method was taken as above described, only the holes
were dug larger than those, as I wished to fill up and get rid
of the small surface stones. After sinking about 200 of the
larger class of stones, and getting rid of a large share of the
small surface stones, we were enabled to plough, and by the first
of December the whole lot was ploughed and left exposed to
the action of the frost during the winter.

In the spring of 1850 it presented a very formidable aspect ;
but in May my teams were put on, the stones gathered and
drawn into large heaps ; it was then harrowed, the stones
gathered again and piled up ; next it was cross-ploughed and
harrowed, and the 4th of June, after carting on 150 loads of
manure, planted to corn. The crop was 200 bushels of corn
and 600 bushels of English turnips. The corn, at 75 cents
per bushel, amounted to ^150; the turnips, ^75; potatoes, 50
bushels, to $25; making the total worth of the crops in 1850,
$250. Against this we have $150 for manure, and $100 for
labor in ploughing, harrowing, cultivating and harvesting crops,
from the commencement; leaving the lot in debt April 1st,
1851, $100 for sinking and clearing off stones. In May, 1851,
one-half of this lot was sowed to oats, and the other half, after
being dressed with 40 loads of manure, was planted to corn
and turnips. The season proved unfavorable, and only 80
bushels of corn, 500 bushels of turnips, and 70 bushels of oats
were harvested. Value of the corn, $60 ;Hurnips, $75; oats,
$35; total amount of crop for 1851, $170. Dr. for grass and
other seeds, $12; for manure, $40; labor in cultivating, har-
vesting and removing stones, $100; making a total outlay of
$152 ; leaving a balance in my favor, of $18 for 1851.

In April, 1852, $23 worth of labor was expended on the half
planted to corn last year, in sinking stones, grading up low
places with subsoil from stone holes, and $10 for seed oats,

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 163

grass seed, and getting in oats ; making in all, an outlay in
1852, of $33. The amount of crops was 80 bushels oats,
worth 45 cents per bushel, $36, (straw against harvesting) ;
five tons of hay, estimated worth $50 standing, amounting to
$86. Expenses $33 ; leaving a balance in my favor of $53 for
1852. Add to this, $18 in my favor first year, and I have $71.
Now, if I bring down the $100 expended in 1849, as labor on
stones, and interest three years, making a total of $118, it
shows the lot indebted to me at this time, $47. The land is
now all seeded to grass, and all stones that would trouble the
scythe or horserake are out of the way.

The whole lot was rolled with a heavy roller, and the small
stones picked up at the time my oats were sown, as is my
usual custom. It will be necessary for me here to show what
was done with the water flowing from lot No. 1, through its
drains. The outlet of the eastern drain has been opened into
the road, and the water carried along by the south wall for
about eighty rods, and used for the last two years on a five-
acre mowing lot, at the etxreme east part of the farm. The
descent from top to bottom on this lot, is about two feet to the
rod, so that the water passes over rapidly, and the effect has
been surprising. I cut, last year and the year before, one-third
at least, more hay than had ever been cut before on that lot.
As this last reformed lot adjoins the road, I have put a culvert
across the road, and have introduced the water on to lot No.
2, first at the south-west corner of lot No. 2, and about eight
rods from said outlet on No. 1, and the other outlet is 25 rods
farther east, and carries the water to lot No. 2, centreways.
Here are shallow ditches, so that the water may be easily car-
ried over the whole lot at my pleasure, and then be permitted
to drop down on to a mowing lot still north, or be turned
off, as I may choose ; and at the road a flood gate is so con-
structed as to let the water on to this lot, or permit it to pass
on, as it has done, to a five-acre mowing lot at the east side of
the farm.

Lot No. 3, contains three acres thirty-three rods, and is located
directly north of lot No. 1, (the road running east and west,
divides the two lots,) and joins lot No. 2 on the east. This lot
kad been used for more than fifty years, for what we call nat-
ural mowing, and by a light coat of top-dressing of compost

164 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

manures once in two years, had produced about one ton of
hay to the acre, composed of wild grass with a small share of
redtop, and a large quantity of soxir brakes. Bushes had in-
creased each year on this lot notwithstanding all efforts to
eradicate them.

The quality of the soil differs somewhat from either of the
other lots ; the soil being more cold and wet than No. 2.

My first operation on this lot was to cut a drain from the
west outlet of lot No. 1, across the road, and about 20 rods
through this lot where it emptied itself into a lot of light loamy
land at the north-west corner of lot No. 3.

This drain was cut four feet wide and three and one-half
deep, and a culvert of 12 inches square. was built of stone at
the sides and covered with flat stones, and was filled to within
10 inches of the surface by carting and tipping in small stones,
of which there was an abundance on the lot after I had com-
menced breaking it up, which was in September, 1847. The
whole lot has since been used for various root and herb crops
up to 1852, when it was all laid down to grass. I should have
stated that this lot had never been ploughed previous to 1847.
I permitted it to lay for one year, and till during the summer
that the lot was idle, 15 hogs were permitted to work over the
sods, which they did in a pretty thorough manner by the 1st
of September, 1848. At that time I caused a drain to be cut,
of the same dimensions of the other, commencing at the outlet
of the centre drain, which emptied out of lot No. 1, directly
through the centre of lot No. 3, and filled it, after laying a
culvert in the same way that the other was filled. This drain
is used for conveying off the surplus water in winter and early
spring.

The water can be turned into the east or west drains as it
is wanted, by closing a flood gate in the centre drain at lot
No. 1. The cost of sinking stones, as well as clearing the
small ones off, and grading up the low places, was something
more than lot No. 2 ; and my crops have been equal to all* la-
bor on the lot except digging the two drains, each 20 rods in
length ; cost of digging, $25 ; only one-half the expense o
these drains should go to this lot. The west drain, which takes
the water from the west drain on lot No. 1, was constructed to
take the wash of the barn cellar, a soap shop, and all other out

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 165

buildings, and passes on with its impregnated waters, some
eighty rods, where it empties itself on to a dry, warm, loamy
soil, spreading over two lots. The effects have been surprising ;
the crops having more than doubled ; besides, I have experi-
enced no inconvenience in having the drains from my buildings
stopped, as the water from above carries all the useless washes
along with it on to the hungry soil, instead of being left aroand
the buildings.

My object from the first, was to underdrain lot No. 1, carry-
ing its surplus water on to lot No. 2, so far as needed, and the
remainder under ground, down through No. 3, using it for
irrigating several acres of my dry, warm land, laying some 50
rods below, where the effect has been wonderful.

I intend all three of these lots to be used for what we term
natural mowing, by giving them, as often as may be ne-
cessary, a light top-dressing with compost.

Inquiry has been frequently made. How much a rod do you
pay for cutting these drains ? What does it cost you to sink
your large stones ? For cutting about 600 rods of drainage on
my south lots, S^V feet deep by three feet wide, I have paid 25
cents per rod ; and larger drains in same proportion. For
sinking stones, the cost has been, for those as large as a cider
barrel, nine cents.

Sutton, Nov. 29, 1852.

Root Crops.

The committee on root crops have attended to the duties as-
signed them, and in the examination of the crops shown to
them by the competitors, have taken great satisfaction.

There have been an unusually large number of root crops
entered for the society's premiums, which has made the labor
of the committee rather onerous ; yet it has been a pleasant
service, and cheerfully rendered.

While on duty, the minds of the committee would often re-
vert to the lamented Lincoln, whose labors as chairman of this
committee had been anticipated, but whose days were num-
bered and finished.

166 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

It is no part of the duty of this committee to pass an eulogy
on tho departed President of the Worcester Agricultural So-
ciety, yet worth should always be appreciated, and the proper
reward should never be withheld from merit. Ever vigilant,
his energies, for a series of years, had been commendably ex-
erted in behalf of the interests of the society whose servants
we are. His mind was always open to the promotion of the
interests of agriculture. The deep feeling he manifested on
the subject, rendered him eminently qualified for the stations
he so honorably and respectably filled.

The Recording Secretary furnished the committee with the
following list of entries of root crops :

By James Estabrooks, one-half acre of carrots on his farm
in Boylston.

By Samuel Perry, one-half acre of carrots on his farm in
Worcester.

By William S. Lincoln, one-half acre of carrots on his farm
in Worcester.

By Jonathan Warren, one-half acre of carrots on his farm in
Grafton.

By James F. Thorndike, one-half acre of carrots on his farm
in Grafton.

By Harvey Dodge, two half acre lots of carrots on his farm
in Sutton.

By Cyrus Kilburn, one acre of potatoes on his farm in Lu-
nenburg.

By James F. Thorndike, two acres of potatoes on his farm
in Grafton.

By Harvey Dodge, one acre of potatoes on his farm in
Sutton.

The severe drought with which this section of the country
was visited during the last season, though nof entirely destruc-
tive, was very detrimental to the root crop, more especially to
the potato, which was in a state of formation during the
drought, and the growth of which was principally after the
late summer, or early fall rains. By this providence, the crop
of potatoes was so much shortened, or for some other reason,
the competitors on this crop did not make the necessary returns
to the recording secretary, to enable them to come under the

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 167

most favorable notice of the committee, and they of course
fail of the substantial applause of the society.

The crops entered, were all visited by the committee, except
the acre of potatoes entered by Mr. Dodge, who being aware
that his crop would not come up to the requirements of the
society, (18,000 lbs. or 300 bushels per acre,) had carefully de-
posited them from the committee's observation. We cannot,
however, refrain from speaking of the potato crops which we
did visit, and very briefly name the experiments made by Mr.
Kilburn and by Mr. Thorndike, at the same time regretting
that those gentlemen did not make a full statement of all the
facts themselves, because it is in this way that that informa-
tion is obtained which it is the object of this society to acquire
and to disseminate.

The soil on which Mr. Kilburn planted his potatoes, lays
low — bordering on swamp — is a black, sandy loam. The
variety of potato planted had not before fallen under the obser-
vation of either member of the committee. It is a long potato,
but larger, in proportion to its length, than the "long red."
The general color is red, but streaked with white like the
leopard potato. He obtained his seed from the town of Hol-
land, in Hampshire county, and therefore calls it "the Holland
potato." Dr. K.'s seed were large potatoes, so cut that but
two eyes were on one piece, and two pieces were put in a hill,
requiring six bushels of seed to an acre of ground, and planted
two feet by three and a half apart. Several hills were dug in
the presence of the committee, which yielded from four to seven
potatoes of large size to a hill ; some of them weighed from 12
to 13 ounces by the steelyards. One hill was dug, the seed of
which was one large potato, which was said to contain as
much seed as twelve other hills. From this hill were taken a
much larger number of potatoes, but they were far inferior in
size to those from other hills.

The ground on which Mr. Thorndike experimented was a
piece of old tough pasture ; never before was it ploughed ; and
even at the ploughing, as the committee were informed, did
some of Mr. T.'s neighbors more than think that "to plough
the old pasture would prove a bad job." He is, however,
entitled to much credit for his perseverance, and will be richly
paid, in time to come, for subduing the " old pasture." The

168 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

soil is black loam, with clay subsoil. The seed planted was
" long recV Mr. Thorndike experimented as follows : — First,
with the point of a pocket knife, he cut the eyes from the bulb
with as little of the potato as possible, without injuring the
eye ; eight eyes were put in a hill. From this manner of
planting, those that were dug in presence of the committee
produced a very fair yield, and the potatoes were of decent
size for table use. Next, Mr. T. cut his potatoes and planted
so that twelve eyes were put in a hill. The yield here was
better than where the eyes only were planted ; they were larger
and decidedly better.

Next Mr. T. cut his potatoes in halves, and planted half a
potato in a hill. The produce in this case was not unlike that
of the twelve eyes. Next Mr. T. planted a whole potato of
large size in a hill, which produced decidedly the best crop.
The potatoes were larger and of more uniform size, and it
was the unanimous opinion of the committee, that the saving
of the seed in the former cases was an injury to the crop, and
of course a draft on the profits of the crop. These experiments
were tried in a field of three acres, from which Mr. T. selected
his two acres which were entered for premium. The seed for
the two acres was cut into pieces containing two eyes each,
and three pieces put in a hill. The yield here, so far as the
committee were able to discover, was not unlike that of the
half potato or the twelve eyes.

Both this field and that of Mr. Kilburn were manured in the
hill, with good compost manure. Each of the gentlemen in-
tended that all parts of their field should be treated alike. Their
experiments were not very unlike, though Mr. Thorndike's were
more extensive. The result, however, we find to be the re-
verse. Where Mr. K. seeded the heaviest, the product was
the lightest; and where Mr. T. seeded the heaviest, the pro-
duct was the best. Was this difference prodilced by locality, b.y
the difference in the seed, or by the kind of potato ? are queries
which will naturally present themselves to the mind.

Mr. Thorndike is doing much on his farm by way of im-
provement, and the public may yet receive much benefit from
the result of his labors. The committee very much regret that
they have not received a written statement from him and Mr.
Kilburn in relation to their crops.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 169

James Estabrook, Wm. S. Lincoln, and James F. Thorndike,
having omitted to lodge with the Recording Secretary of the
society a written statement in relation to their crops of car-
rots, are excluded by the rules of the society from receiving a
premium, however much your committee may desire to bestow
one upon them.

Yet we cannot refrain from speaking of their fields, thereby
showing that the carrot culture is not on the wane, but is
rather ascending in the estimation of the community as a
field crop.

Sheriff Estabrook's carrots were on his farm in the south-
west part of Boylston, of which he has recently come in pos-
session. The soil on which his carrots grew is a deep, rich
loam, and is adapted to the growth of any crop usually culti-
vated by the farmer. His carrots gave evident signs that they
had not been neglected in the bestowment of all care neces-
sary to insure him a handsome crop.

At the time of examination (Oct. 5) the tops were remark-
ably vigorous and of heavy growth. The bottoms were of
good size, and promised a good harvest. They were rather
thick in the rows to obtain roots of very large size, yet he might
have as much weight as though he had thinned them in the
row. The committee very much regret that Mr. E. did not
communicate to them his bill of particulars — he would not
have lost anything by so doing.

On entering Mr. Lincoln's lot, the soil of which is rather
light, sandy loam, the committee entertained some fearful ap-
prehensions for the crop from the appearance of the tops of the
carrots ; the drought, followed by the blight, had made what
was above ground appear a little less inviting than were those
of Mr. Estabrook, though the committee thought the bottoms
were not inferior. Mr. Lincoln is an old cultivator of this
valuable root, and fi'om many years experience in feeding the
same to his stock, knows, in a good degree, how to appreciate
its worth.

Mr. Thorndike's effort this season was an experiment with
him, it being his first trial

His soil is a deep, black loam, with clay subsoil. The lot on
which his carrots were, was with great expense, during the last
season, cleared of a large quantity of large rocks and stumps,
22

170 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

which his predecessors had suffered to remain monumental, that
no mistake should be made in finding the lot. Though Mr.
Thorndike may have felt himself unsuccessful in his crop of
carrots, he is worthy of praise for his perseverance in eradicat-
ing from his field a heavy growth of weeds, which for a time
threatened to destroy his whole crop of carrots. He labored
under great disadvantage in the cultivation of his crop, during
the past season, but has opened the way whereby he may
attain to a higher degree of eminence in the same calling in
time to come.

In this connection we cannot fail to make favorable mention
of a lot of carrots raised by Mr. Wm. A. Wheeler, of Wor-
cester. Without any special effort he succeeded in producing
as good a crop as is often seen. They, as well as all the other
lots of which we have spoken, were of the " orange variety."

Mr. Wheeler, though in a more lucrative calling, delights in
agriculture, and has done much in the way of root raising.
His example in that line is well worth following by beginners
in the art.

He is for deep ploughing, that the root may have ample op-
portunity to descend into the earth, the top having full scope
above it.

Wm. T. Merrifield, of Worcester, also grew a very hand-
some specimen of carrots, on a rather light soil, with gravel
subsoil.

It is gratifying to the committee, and must be to all culti-
vators of the soil who take an interest in the improvements of
the day, especially in agriculture, to witness such an increase
of outlay in the production of feo valuable a crop as that for
which this society has offered to award the successful com-
petitors.

Jonathan Warren, of Grafton, Samuel PeiTy, of Worcester,
and Harvey Dodge, of Sutton, having returned to the Record-
ing Secretary, written statements of facts herewith connected,
become the subjects of the remaining part of this report.

Jonathan Warreyi^s Statement.

Gentlemen, — This certifies that a piece of land containing
one-half acre, measured by Charles C. Wood, produced as
follows : —

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 171

1st. The general state of the land in the year 1851. Ans.
Was planted with corn for two years previous.

2d. The manner of cultivation in 1851 ? Ans. Was planted
with carrots and managed as in 1852.

3d. The quantity and quality of manure used in 1851 ?
Ans. Twenty loads horse manure worked upon by hogs.

4th. The product of the land in 1851 ? Ans. A larger yield
of carrots than in 1852.

5th. The condition of the land in the spring of 1852?
Ans. As good as in the spring of 1851.

6th. The quantity and quality of manure used during the
present season ? Ans. Sixteen loads, same as in 1851.

7th. The mode of cultivation preparatory to sowing ? Ans.
Ploughed once, and beat up with a spade and levelled by
raking.

8th. The quantity and quality of seed used ? Ans. One
and a quarter pounds of best orange carrot seed.

9th. The time and manner of sowing, weeding, cultivating,
and harvesting crop ? Ans. Sowed June 10th, by a machine,
and hoed three times, harvested Nov. 5th.

10th. The amount of produce ascertained by actual mea-
surement after the whole is harvested ? Ans. Four hundred
and sixty bushels.

11th. The entire expense of the seeds, manure, labor and
cultivation ? Ans. Fifty-nine dollars.

12th. The value of the product? Ans. One hundred and
fifteen dollars for the roots, and five for the tops.

The above piece of land had upon the same sixty-five fruit
trees, consisting of apple and peach.

Grafton, Nov. 27, 1852.

Wm. S. Lincoln, Esq., — Dear Sir : I herewith hand you an
addition to the statement made and sent to you in regard to
the land that my carrots were grown upon. I would state that
in the spring of 1848 it was grass ground, and had been laid
down twenty years and not manured. I ploughed it and took
out the rocks in order to prepare it for fruit trees. The soil is
a deep black loam, with clay or hard pan underneath. I
planted it with potatoes in 1848, but did not manure it ; in the
spring of 1S49 I planted it with corn, put on fifty loads of the

172 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

very best manure, and raised 102 bushels ears of corn ; in 1850
planted again with corn, but did not manure much — the crop
not as large as the previous year. The two last years you
have a statement of; I have not put anything down for interest
upon land in the following statement of expense, as the fruit
that I raised upon the trees will richly pay the same. In cul-
tivating the crop I did not thin them out.

EXPENSES — 1852.

16 loads manure, at $1 25 per load, . . . ^20 00

Carting and spreading same, . . . . 2 50

Ploughing in the manure, ... 1 25
Levelling and beating the lumps and raking the same,

also for sowing with a machine, . . . 5 00

Cash paid for seed, . . . . . 1 25

Weeding three times, 15 days, . . . 15 00

Harvesting crop, 16 days, 87| cts. per day, . . 14 00

$59 00
Yours, &c.,

JoNA. Warren.
Grafton, Dec. 3, 1852.

Samuel Perri/s Statement.

Gentlemen, — In relation to the acre of land on which I raised
carrots the present year, and of which I entered two half acres
for the society's premiums, I submit the following statement :

In the year 1850 we planted the above with corn — put on
about 22 loads of green manure. Had not a large crop, say
45 bushels per acre.

In 1851 I ploughed the ground twice, and sowed about tsvo-
thirds of an acre with carrots, without any manure, about the
1st of June, the ground being in a fair condiHon, and cultivated
in the usual way, by taking out the weeds as they sprang up.
Raised 470 bushels, or at the rate of 705 bushels per acre.

The condition of land in the spring of 1852, w^ill appear as
above, (two-thirds of an acre) ; on the other third I raised oats
and beets. The present year I could see no marked difference
between where the three different products were raised.

On the acre of land I sowed the present year, I put 22 loads

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

173

of compost and green nnanure mixed, and ploughed it in ;
again ploughed the 27th of May. Prepared the ground by-
harrowing, bushing, and raking. Sowed 11 lb. of good seed the
28th May, in drills 18 inches apart, with a common seed-sower.

June 10, ran a hoe between the rows ; June 19, commenced
weeding the same first time ; July 7, commenced weeding a
second time. In September ran over again, and pulled out the
wormwood, &c. Commenced harvesting about the 8th, and
finished the 13th of November. We omit harvesting carrots
as long as we dare, for two reasons — the value of the tops
after cattle are driven to the barn, and their growth increases
while the ground is open.

The amount of produce, by actual measurement and weight,
was, on the whole acre, 918 bushels. Six tons of the above
were weighed. The whole was computed at 50 lbs. to the
bushel.

The south half acre measured 470 bushels.

The north half acre measured 448 bushels.

of raising 918 bushels carrots, on one acre

To 22 loads of manure, .
" labor in carting and spreading manure,
" ploughing twice,
" harrowing, bushing and raking,
" 11 lb. seed, $1 25; sowing, 75 cents,
" hoeing, 1^ day,
" weeding, 8 days, $1 25 per day,
" second weeding, 8 days,
" weeding, 1|- day,
" harvesting, 16 days, .
" interest on land, at $200 per acre.

Total, .....

Carrot field produced 918 bushels, or 22 tons an
38-40ths, at $10 per ton, .

Deduct expenses, ....

Net profit, .....

Expense

May,

1852.

27th.

28th.

((

June

10th.

19th.

July

7th.

Sept

7th.

Nov.

13th.

$27 50

5 00

4 00

3 00

2 00

1 50

10 00

1 50

16 00

12 00

^92 50

$229 50
92 50

$137 00

N. B. The tops this year were of very essential service,
worth four or five dollars, to be set ofi" against trifling expenses

174

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

not mentioned ; as also forty-nine apple trees of the third year's
growth from setting.

Worcester, Nov. 29, 1852.

Harvey Dodge's Statement.

Gentlemen, — I herewith hand you a statement of the ex-
penses and product of a lot of carrots grown on 101^'^ rods of
ground, on my farm in Sutton, the present season : —

VALUE OF CROP.

28,255 lbs. of carrots, at ^ cent per lb.,
4,000 lbs. of tops, fed to cattle, estimated at

$141 27
3 00

$144 27

1852
May

EXPENSES.

1. 20 loads stable manure,
150 bushels leached ashes.
Carting, spreading, and ploughing in,
May 15-20. To ploughing twice,
28. Bushing ground, &c,,
28. 1^ lbs. seed, and sowing.
Rolling,
August 15. Hoeing, weeding, and thinning caiTots

to date,
Nov. 10—20. Harvesting crop and loading teams.
Interest on land at $2 per acre.

Total, ....

Net proceeds, .

$67 10
%11 17.

This 101 rods carrots is a part of a lot containing 3 acres 1
quarter and 13 rods, on which I have grown cOrn one year and
carrots the next for the last seven years ; when to carrots, it has
usually received a dressing of 40 ox cart loads of stable ma-
nure, or its equivalent, to the acre, and when to corn, none.
Having been to corn in 1851, the condition last spring was
medium. The soil is a light yellow loam, resting on a clayed
subsoil, and worked to the depth of 12 inches. Twelve tons
carrots were sold on the lot at $10 per ton, and 4,254 pounds

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 175

were put into my barn cellar — making on this 101 rods, 28,255
lbs. or 665 bushels, equal to about 894 bushels per acre. One
quarter acre of this land produced at the rate of 960 bushels per
acre ; leached ashes being used instead of manure of equal cost.
This lot of carrots was cultivated in the manner that I have
advocated for the last ten years, namely, deep culture, between
the rows (which are 15 inches apart) with a light hoe as soon
as the young plant appears, and as often as once a week until
the first or middle of August — never in wet weather, but when
the sun shines.

The great advantage of underdrainage has shown itself on
this whole lot the present season, both in the growth and
healthy appearance of the apple trees and all kinds of vege-
tables.

This lot is 37 rods long, 8|- rods wide at the south end, and
about 17] rods wide at the north end, and descends 12 inches
to the rod to the north-west. The south part has always been
wet, mostly owing to water trickling down from land above ;
last winter a drain was cut four feet wide and four feet deep
across the upper end of the lot, and small stones filled in to
within 18 inches of the top — old hay and straw covered over
to prevent the earth from falling down between the stones, and
the earth brought back. This drain was commenced within a
rod of the south-east corner and run angleways until it emptied
into the road, four rods below the south-west corner of the lot.
Water was discharged at the outlet of the drain until the
middle of June. The field was worked full ten days earlier
than ever before in a like season. Your committee will re-
member when here, of my showing them where a similar drain
had been cut about centreways of this lot, and an old wall
that used to divide this in two lots had been used to fill up the
drain, which empties into the road. Carrots grew quite as
large on top of the drain as anywhere.

It will be noticed that I have not brought any of the un-
spent manures to the credit of my present carrot crop as has
been usual; neither has any mention been made of the growth
of 160 apple trees, 35 of which stand on the carrot ground.

Sutton, Nov. 26, 1852.

176 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

The soil on which Mr. Warren's carrots were raised, is a
heavy black loam, with clay subsoil. Mr, W. has been pre-
paring it for growing fruit trees, for which it is admirably
adapted.

Mr. Warren bestowed no extra labor on his carrots. They
were well manured and sowed about right — they were not
thinned — they stood well in the row and well filled the ground.

The field in which Mr. Perry's carrots grew, from which he
has selected for premium one-half acre, contains about two
acres, most of which was in carrots.

The field lies well, and evidently is of good soil. Mr. Perry
is a good cultivator, and gets well paid for the care bestowed
upon his crops.

By reference to their statements, it will be seen that Mr.
Warren obtained from his half acre, 460 bushels, at a cost of
^59 — he obtained a net profit of |61.

Mr. Perry obtained from his two half acres, 918 bushels, at
a cost of ^92 50 ; he obtained a net profit of $137. On one
of the half acres he obtained 470 bushels, and on the other half
acre he obtained 448 bushels.

The committee award to Mr. Samuel Perry the first premi-
um of $10, on his half acre of carrots, the product of which
was 470 bushels.

And we award to Mr. Jonathan Warren the second premium
of $7, on his half acre which produced 460 bushels.

By the certificate of entries from the hand of the Recording
secretary, Mr. Dodge entered two lots of carrots for premium :
one lot containing half an acre, and one lot containing one-
quarter of an acre.

By his written statement to the committee, Mr. Dodge re-
turns a survey of 101^'^ rods of land, on which he has grown
carrots the present year, and for which he claims the society's
premium ; but he failed to designate whether he claimed a
premium on half or quarter acre.

In case he had claimed on the first, he would have b^en
entitled to the third premium of $5. If he had claimed on
the latter, he would have been entitled to the first premium of
$10. In consequence of the above omission on the part of Mr.
Dodge, the committee have not awarded him any premium.

By his statement, which we consider as a valuable part of

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 177

this report, it is seen that Mr. Dodge has been very successful
in his carrot crop this season, and we regret that circumstances
render it necessary for us to lay it aside.

IVIr. Dodge is an old competitor in this branch of husbandry.
He also enters largely into the cabbage and turnip culture,
which is made profitable under his management. He makes
his land produce well, whatever may be his crop.

His soap establishment is no detriment to his farm. The
large quantity of leached ashes which it affords, together with
bones used in various forms, makes a most capital manure^
which is the best capital for the farmer.

Thomas W. Ward, Chairman,

Feeding.

To the Trustees of the Worcester Agricultural Societt/.

Gentlemen, — The committee to whom was submitted the
consideration of " The best experiment in determining the ad-
vantages or disadvantages of cutting hay as food for stock,
under the following regulations : A premium of . $30 00

For the next best, . . . . . 20 00

" The trial to be made with at least two animals, their con-
dition to be as much alike as is practicable; the time of trial
to continue at least eight weeks, divided into periods of two
weeks each. One animal to be fed with cut, when the other
is fed with uncut hay, and the feed of each to be changed at
the expiration of each two weeks, and so on alternately each
two weeks, during the trial. If any other food than hay is
given, (such as roots or meal,) the same quantity to be given
to each, that the result in relation to the cutting the hay may
not be affected by other food. The animals should be kept in
the same stable, that they may be in the same temperature,
the average degrees of which is to be stated. If the trial is
made with cows, the time of having the last calf must be
given, and also the weight of milk given by each cow, during
each period of the trial. Each of the animals to be weighed
at the commencement of each two weeks, and at the end of
23

178 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

the trial, and the statement must give an account of their con-
dition, age, and every other circumstance that can have any
influence upon the decision of the question, and that the ex-
periment may produce the most satisfactory results, the same
kind of hay (what is usually called English hay) should be
used, during the whole time : the time of giving the food and
drink should be regular, and also of the milking ; the time of
weighing should be in the morning, and before the animal has
been allowed to drink.

" The statement must also give the quantity of hay, whether
wet or dry, and other food given to each animal, and of each
kind during each period of the trial, and to be forwarded and
received by the Recording Secretary, on or before the 15th day
of March, 1852, to be laid before the committee appointed for
their adjudication."

On or before the said 15th day of March, a statement of a
trial of feeding with cut and uncut hay, was received from
Mr. Deraond, of Grafton, with two dry cows : from Mr. Har-
vey Dodge, of Sutton, with two steers : from Mr. "VV. S. Lin-
coln, of Worcester, with two milch cows : and from Mr. A. H.
Hawes, of Worcester, with two working oxen.

The committee was originally constituted by the appointment
by the Trustees, of Hon. George Denny, Hon. John Brooks,
and William A. Wheeler, Esq. After the decease of our la-
mented friend, Hon. George Denny, the Trustees enlarged the
committee, by the addition of John W. Lincoln, Thomas W.
Ward, and Charles Brigham, Esq. At the meeting of the
committee, on the motion of the Hon. John Brooks, John W.
Lincoln was appointed their chairman. Subsequently the
Hon. John Brooks handed to the chairman a communication
containing statements of a number of experiments made by
him in relation to feeding of cattle, and for the purpose of
ascertaining the quantity of solid manure voided by cattle in
proportion to the weight of hay eaten by them. This com-
munication contains much valuable information, of which the
public should not be deprived, and is annexed to this report as
an important part thereof, from which will be learnt the rela-
tive value of different articles of food, and the great importance
to the farmer, of making use of his hay, grain and stover, as
food for stock on his own land. Even those who have satis-

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 179

fied their own consciences by returning a load of manure for
every load of hay sold from their farm, will find that they have
been robbing their land of three-fifths of the manure which of
right belongs to it. Mr. Dodge, in a letter to the chairman,
states that during one of the periods of two weeks, his steers
ate 508 lbs. of hay and 100 lbs. of meal, in which time all the
solid manure was saved and thrown into a heap in the stable
by itself; that at the expiration of the two weeks the manure
was found to weigh 1,136 lbs., and measured 25 bushels, po-
tato measure.

The subject of feeding stock is of the utmost importance to
the farmer, and although the books are full of recommenda-
tions of the use of the cutting machine, being the assertions
of anonymous correspondents, unsupported by facts upon the
particular question submitted to your committee, they do not
find that it has been discussed in the agricultural publications,
or any facts stated that can have any application to it, except
by inference. Of some of the most reliable statements in
relation to feeding, they have made some extracts, as contain-
ing information which may be useful to be understood by the
farmers of our county.

In the fourth volume of the " Memoirs of the Philadelphia
Society for Promoting Agriculture," in a long communication
from Richard Peters, entitled " Notices to a Young Farmer,"
he says, page 30 : " Be particularly careful in expending, as
you should be provident in raising, every species of provender
for your stock of horses, cattle and sheep. A variety of food,
and an orderly distribution of it, are more promotive of health
and vigor in your domestic animals, than a lavish expenditure of
any one species. Such as require previous preparation, should
have it bestowed : both for profit and economy, cut or chaff
your hay, straw, corn tops and blades, and even your stalks,
with a powerful straw cutter; and you will save a great
proportion, which is otherwise wasted, or passed through the
animal without contributing to its nourishment. One bushel
of chaffed hay at a mess, given in a trough, three times in
twenty-four hours, is sufficient for a horse, ox or cow. A bushel
of chaffed hay, lightly pressed, weighs from five to five and
one-half pounds. A horse, or horned beast, thrives more on

180 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

15 pounds thus given, than 24 or 25 pounds as commonly
expended (including waste) in the usual manner of feeding in
racks, to which troughs, properly constructed, are far prefera-
ble. This practice has been now tested by experience ; and
the result accurately proved." The name of Judge Peters,
then the President of the Philadelphia Society for Promoting
Agriculture, and one of the best practical and scientific farm-
ers of his day, would insure to hi^ recommendations the
highest consideration, but it is to be regretted, that he had not
given the facts on which his opinion was founded. Farmers
are generally so much prejudiced against all information that
appears in print, that they will not believe, unless furnished
with all the evidence in the case, from which they may draw
their own conclusions.

In the Bath (England) Society's Papers, republished in the
fourth volume of the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository
and Journal, page 138, is a communication over the signature
of Thomas Williamson. He says : " I have throughout the
summer, kept my horses in the stable, feeding them with good
hay and beans. My oxen have, on the contrary, always been
turned out to grass, when liberated from their work ; they
have had the range of good pastures, and the benefit of some
less valuable hay, previous to their going to their labor. My
horses, five in number, have been regularly worked at the
plough in pairs. The oxen, four in number, have worked in
collars, drawing generally a stout Beverstone plough, or a
large drag and scuffer ; their labor has been constant and rather
severe. As our meadows (mowing lands) began to fail us
towards the end of September, owing to the quantity of stock
upon them, it became necessary to allow the oxen more and
better hay.

" The increased expenditure alarmed me, as the four oxen
and the five horses, consumed no less than four tons within one
month. This caused me to prohibit the use of hay in the
racks, and to feed all the cattle with chaff; of which a boy»can
cut sufficient for daily use in two hours.

" My servants not only ridiculed the change, but so far as
they dared, opposed, in an underhand manner, by various eva-
sions and pretexts. Aided by the care and vigilance of the

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 181

young gentlemen with me, the system of chafF-feeding was
fully established, and the quantity needful for the horses, and
for the oxen, separately ascertained.

" One hundred weight of hay was found to yield twenty
bushels of chaff pressed into the measure, and piled as high
as it could be safely carried ; consequently each bushel weigh-
ed about 5^ pounds. It was found that the five horses would
eat twelve bushels of chaff during the twenty-four hours ; and
that the four oxen could consume an equal quantity in the
same time. Ever since, the oxen have been fed with chaff
only ; they have very evidently improved in condition, as have
also the horses, although their work has latterly been on
heavier soil, and of course, more severe than formerly.

" Twenty-four bushels of chaff, at twenty to the cwt. (112 lbs.)
amount to about 21|^ tons yearly : which deducted from 48
tons (the quantity we were consuming within the year) gives
a saving of about 26^ tons, or more than one-half.

" I have, however, carried the retrenchment further, by cut-
ting in beanstalks, to the extent of about a quarter of the chaff.
These being laid uppermost in the cutting trough, keep the
hay well pressed, and cause it to be cut more regularly. Thus
we now use about 25 cwt. of hay monthly, instead of four
tons.

" It is customary in our quarter to throw beanstalks under
cattle, a practice which cannot be too speedily abolished.
Mine had suffered much by standing out full a month in the
late rainy weather, yet all my cattle ate the chafi" from them
alone, without hesitation ; indeed, rather in preference."

On page 400 of the same volume of the Massachusetts Ag-
ricultural Repository and Journal, is the statement by Benja-
min Hale of the saving made by the use of the straw cutter
employed to cut hay and straw as fodder for horses.

Mr. Hale was a proprietor of a line of stages then running
between Newburyport and Boston. He says : —

" The whole amount of hay purchased from April 1 to Oc-
tober 1, 1816, (six months,) and used at the stage stable, was —

32 tons 4 cwt. 10 lbs. at $25 per ton, (the lowest price

at which hay was purchased by him in 1816,) is . $800 00
From October 1, 1816, to April 1, 1817, whole amount

182 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

of hay purchased for and consumed by the same

number of horses, viz. : —
Straw, 16 tons 13 cwt. 3 qrs. 10 lbs., . . $160 23
Hay, 13 tons 4 cwt. 1 qr. 10 lbs., . . 350 00

$510 23

Deduct, on hand April 1, 1817, by estima-
tion, 4 tons more than there was October
1, 1816, at $25, 100 00 $410 23

Saving by the use of a straw cutter four months of
the last six months, or the dfFerence in expense in
feeding with cut fodder and that which is uncut, . 389 77

Whole amount of hay used for the horses of the Sa-
lem stage, twenty-five in number, from April 1 to
October 1, 1816, 22 tons at $30 per ton, the lowest
price in Salem, ....... 660 00

Whole aniount consumed by the same number of
horses from Oct. 1, 1816, to April 1, 1817 :—

Straw, 15 tons 13 cwt., ....
Hay, 2 tons 15 cwt.,

Saving in using chopped fodder 5 months.
Total saving in using the straw cutter in

Newbury port, 4 months, ....

At Salem, 5 months, ....
Total saving in both places, average time 4|-

months, *1 780 97

" The member of the Board of Trustees of the Massachu-
setts Agricultural Society to whom the above account was
communicated by Mr. Hale, was informed by that gentleman
that he used no more grain from October, 1816, to April, 1817,
than was used from April, 1816, to October, 1816."

It will readily be perceived that the large amount of saving
reported in this statement is greatly increased by the extreme
high price of hay, during that year of scarcity. The saving of
the last six months, over the former six months, although the
cutter was in use but three-quarters of the time, is 53 per cent.
Much of this saving is effected by the substitution of straw for
hay, and a reduction in the quantity.

$187
81

80
00

268 80

•

$391

389
391

77
20

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 183

The quantity of hay used in Newburyport from April 1 to
October 1, 1816, is 72,138 lbs.; from October 1, 1816, to April
1, 1817, is 37,390 lbs. straw, and 20,636 lbs. hay, being less in
weight by 19^ per cent., and reduce the straw to its equivalent
A'alue in hay, and it would be 6,129 lbs., making the whole equal
to 26,765 lbs. of hay, less than of the preceding six months by
64 per cent, in its nutritive properties.

The quantity of hay used in Salem from April 1 to October
1, 1816, was 49,280 lbs., from October 1, 1816, to April 1,
1817, was, straw 35,056 lbs., and 6,160 lbs. hay, whole weight
41,216 lbs., being less in weight for the last six months by 17^
per cent., and reduce the straw to its equivalent value in hay,
which would be equal to 5,763 lbs., and it would then be as
hay 11,923 lbs.: less in value as hay for the making of muscle
by 75| per cent, for the last six months, than for the former
six months.

It would be extremely difficult to conjecture how so large a
saving could be effected by the use of the cutter, without a
very large allowance for waste during the first period. It is
probable that the grain furnished all the nutriment required by
the horses, and the straw was only wanted to fill up the sto-
mach, for which it was as useful as hay.

It is much to be regretted that in this statement of Mr. Hale,
all the facts in the case are not given ; the horses should have
been weighed at the commencement and at the close of the
term of trial, that their relative condition might have been
known ; the quantity and quality of the grain, and the manner
in which it was given, should have been stated, that the public
might have the whole evidence in the case, on which they
might have formed their own opinion. It might have appeared
upon more careful examination, that these horses for at least
a portion of the time were overfed, and that much of the food
given them passed through them in an undigested state, and
of course w^as of no benefit to them, or in other words was
wasted. It is difficult on any other conjecture to account
for the great difference on the two sides of the account. It is
not intended to intimate that Mr. Hale intentionally withheld
any facts within his knowledge ; he doubtless stated all the
circumstances of which he was informed by those in his em-
ploy, and finding that his savings had been so great, he was

184 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

disposed to give the public the benefit of the information, sup-
posing it to be as full as could be expected.

This statement of Mr. Hale has been copied into many of
the agricultural papers with remarks of approval, which has
occasioned disappointment on the part of those who have
adopted the use of the cutter and have not realized so great
benefits, as by this account, they were induced to expect. For
these reasons, we have been disposed to examine it more par-
ticularly, that farmers might be induced fully to inquire into
all the circumstances belonging to a case before they form a
conclusion either for or against it.

In the Nev/ England Farmer, vol. 12, page 233, is the fol-
lowing communication : —

" Beverly, January 25, 1834.
" Mr. J. R. Newell — Dear Sir, — It is with pleasure that I
comply with your request, asking the result of my experience
on the subject of feeding stock. My stock consists of fifty-one
head, viz. : eight horses, six oxen, thirty-five cows, and two
yearlings. This stock was fed in the usual way, with English,
salt and fresh meadow hay, with meal and potatoes as their
condition required, to the 1st of December last, at which time
I commenced chopping my hay. In giving the result of my
experiment 1 must in some measure ask the privilege of a
Yankee, viz. : that of guessing ; but in this case I think I can
guess pretty correctly, as much of the hay has been loaded in
consequence of having to remove it from one barn to the other,
and calculating the number of days a load would last, the re-
sult is as follows :

700 lbs. English hay, at ^16 per ton,
200 lbs. Fresh " 4 «

100 lbs. Salt " 8 «

3 bushels corn meal, .
8 " long red potatoes,

400 lbs. Eng. hay, chopped, ^16 p. ton, $3 20
100 lbs. Fresh " 4 « . 20

100 lbs. Salt " 8 « . 40

3 bushels corn meal, . . . . 2 25

4 " long red potatoes, chopped, . 80

$5 60

2 25

1 60

^10 25 per day.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 185

140 gallons pure water, . . . |0 00
1 man at $8 per month, . . . 31 .
Board of man, at $1 50 per week, . 23

$7 39 per day.

Balance in favor of straw cutter, . . ^2 86 " "

" In addition to the above balance may be added an increase
of six gallons of milk from twenty-five cows then in milk, and
likewise something for the improvement of the condition of

my whole stock.

Yours respectfully,

Amos Sheldon."

In a communication of Finlay Dun, Jr., of Scotland, to the
Highland Society of Scotland, for which he i-eceived a gold
medal, he says in relation to the quantity of food to be given
to cattle : " It is found from experience that a healthy ox con-
sumes nearly one-fifth its own weight of hay, straw, and such
other dried food. Cattle, fifty stone imperial weight, allowed
straw, ad libitum, will consume from 150 to 180 lbs. of turnips
daily." Boussingault considers as a sufficient allowance six
pounds of mixed food or four pounds of hay for every 100 lbs.
of living weight ; or otherwise, about thirty pounds per day of
a mixture of equal parts of grass and hay for cattle of thirty
stone imperial weight. The food of cattle requires to be of a
certain bulk. Without this, digestion and assimilation are not
properly performed, even although the food be sufficiently nu-
tritive. In order that digestion be effectually performed, the
stomach must have certain mechanical stimulus, which the
bulk of the food naturally imparts to it. But the quantity of
food necessary to an ox must of course be greatly modified by
various circumstances. It is evident, for instance, that young
animals, in proportion to their size, require a larger quantity
and a better sort of nutriment than adults. This depends
upon their having to increase the size of all the parts of their
frame, as well as to repair the continual waste, which is also
greater in them, than in older animals, on account of their
taking a greater amount of exercise.

" At all ages exercise greatly increases the demand for food
and prevents the accumulation of fat. A man, when employ-
ed in active out-door labor, requires a much more nutritive
24

186 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

diet than when pursuing a sedentary occupation within doors.
"Working cattle also require a larger quantity and a more nutri-
tive quality of food than similar animals confined to courts or
tied in the stall. Wild animals, and those allowed to roam
about, rarely become fat. It has been remarked by Liebig,
that cows driven long distances to pasture, unless they get an
extra supply of food, yield milk poor in caseine — the materials
which would otherwise have formed that constituent of the
milk being used in repairing the waste of the muscles and
other parts employed in locomotion."

Professor Playfair, in a lecture delivered before the Royal
Agricultural Society, on the application of Physiology to the
rearing and feeding of cattle, says : " It is known that the vital
forces decrease when the body is exposed to a certain degree
of cold ; and when this is sufficiently intense, that they are
either suspended or are altogether annihilated. But the chem-
ical force, oxygen, is condensed or increased in its power by
such agencies, and it therefore now reigns triumphant. Vital-
ity (the cause of increase and of sustenance) being removed,
chemical affinity (the cause of waste) acts upon those tissues
which have been freed from the dominion of vitality, and ef-
fects their destruction. Hence it is, that cattle do not fatten
so well in cold weather as in hot. The chemical powers being
now in the ascendant prevent the increase of mass. We know,
also, that the intervention of cold weather in summer either
wholly arrests, or greatly retards, the fattening of our cattle.
But as the decrease of vitality has been occasioned by a dimi-
nution of the temperature of the body, it is obvious that by an
elevation of the temperature, vitality would be enabled to re-
sume its proper functions. It has been shown that the food of
various countries is more or less combustible, according to the
temperature of the climate ; and proof was adduced that the
amount of the food consumed varied also" according to the
temperature. The animal body is a furnace, which must be
kept up to a certain heat in all climates. This furnace must,
therefore, be supplied with more or less fuel, according to the
temperature of the external air. If then, in winter, we wish
to retain the vital functions of our cattle in a proper degree of
activity, we must keep up the heat of their bodies. This we
may do in two ways. We may either add more fuel (food)

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 187

to the furnace, or we may protect their bodies from the cold.
Warmth is an equivalent for food, which may thus be econo-
mized. But I wish to give you facts, and not assertions ; and
as a proof of the view I have now given you, I will cite the
following experiment, which was made by the Earl of Ducie,
at Whitfield farm.

" One hundred sheep were folded by tens in pens, each of
which was 22 feet in length by 10 feet in breadth, and pos-
sessed a covered shed attached to it of 12 feet in length by 10
in breadth. They were kept in there from the 10th of October
to the 10th of March. Each sheep consumed on an average
20 lbs. of swedes daily. Another hundred were folded in pens
of a similar size, but without sheds attached. They were kept
during the same time, and their daily consumption of swedes
amounted to 25 lbs. each. Here the circumstances were pre-
cisely similar with respect to exercise, the only difference being
t)iat the first hundred sheep had sheds into which they might
retire, and thus be partially protected from the cold.

" This partial protection was equivalent to a certain amount
of food, and consequently we find that the sheep enjoying this
protection consumed one-fifth less food than those sheep which
were left entirely exposed to the cold. In the last case the
consumption of the additional food arose wholly from the ne-
cessity of adding more fuel (food) to the furnace of the body,
in order to keep up its normal temperature. This was proved
from the circumstance, that those sheep which enjoyed the
protection had increased three lbs. each, more than those left
unprotected, although the latter had consumed one-fifth more
food.

" I wish particularly to impress upon you that warmth is an
equivalent for food, and that therefore food may be economized
by protecting cattle from the cold. The honey stored up by
bees is for the purpose of serving as fuel to keep up the heat
of their bodies during the winter. Now it has been found that
when two hives of bees are placed in one hive during winter,
that they actually consume less honey than each hive would
have done separately. You will easily perceive the explana-
tion of this circumstance from the facts which I have already
stated. Their close contiguity prevents a rapid escape of the
heat of their bodies, and consequently less fuel (honey) is

188 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

required to keep up the temperature. This case forms a very
distinct proof that warmth is an equivalent for food.

" But I need only refer you to the results of your own expe-
rience, for every breeder of cattle must be aware, in the win-
tering of young stock, that they thrive better, with less con-
sumption of food, when kept well sheltered from cold and
wet."

Of the advantage in cutting hay for stock, we have in this
country but little evidence. The general opinion of farmers
has been in favor of cutting hay, where any considerable por-
tion was of inferior quality, especially if it was intended to
feed meal with it, that the whole might be mixed together,
and less would be wasted. So some experiments have been
had in feeding cut hay and straw together, but the trials have
not been carried out so fully as to show the advantage (if any)
in cutting food for stock in the quantity eaten, and if any, in
what it consisted. Whether it would pay to cut good hay,
charging for the labor of doing it, is a question of which there
is much difference of opinion. Some have believed that by
the cutting of the hay, the digestion was aided; the animal
being able to fill itself in less time, would have more leisure
to chew the cud, thereby more completely extracting the nu-
tritive qualities from the hay and derive more benefit from it.
Others have contended that the animal eating the same quan-
tity of hay would be prejudiced in having it cut — that in the
eating of the long hay the saliva which assists in digestion
w^ould be more intimately mixed with the food, and more
nourishment would be extracted from it. This is denied by
the advocates of cutting. They claim that the gastric juice is
mixed with the food when chewing the cud, and the animal
having more time for that operation would realize most benefit
from its food. That there might be some slight benefit in cut-
ting good hay, as there was less liability of its being wasted
in getting a portion of it under their feet, was admitted; but
it was said that this would be very inconsiderable, if the Qattle
were judiciously fed in small quantities and often ; and it was
contended that there could be no other advantage in cutting
hay, than in preventing waste in some degree.

The several statements of Messrs. Demond, Dodge, Lincoln,
and Hawes are appended to this report, as a part thereof,

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 189

from which the facts will appear, from the statements made
by them.

Charles B. Demand's Statement.

Cow No. 1, seven years old, dried off about 10th December ;
calved 4th March, 1851, expected to come in about 9th March,
1852. Trial commenced January 1, 1852 ; weight at com-
mencement, 870 lbs., at close of trial, 931 lbs., mean weight,
904^ lbs. ; gain in eight weeks, 61 lbs. ; on cut hay, 38 lbs.,
on vmcut hay, 23 lbs. ; eat, in eight weeks, 1,174 lbs. hay ; 611
lbs. cut hay and 563 lbs. uncut hay.

Cow No. 2, seven years old, dried off about 10th December
last; calved 28th February, 1851, expected to come in about
9th March, 1852. Trial began January 1, 1852 ; weight at
commencement, 850 lbs., at end of trial, 909 lbs., mean weight,
879| lbs. ; gain in eight weeks, 59 lbs. ; on cut hay, 26 lbs., on
uncut hay, 33 lbs. ; eat, in eight weeks, 1,146 lbs. ; 560 lbs. cut
and 586 lbs. uncut hay.

In addition to the hay, each cow eat one-half peck turnips
per day, being seven bushels to each cow, which is equivalent
to 58 lbs. hay in value, making cow No. 1 equal to 1,232 lbs.,
provided the turnips were the common flat turnips, and cow
No. 2, 1,204 lbs., which would make their daily food, as in
hay, equal to || per cent, of their live weight, or an addition
of one pound in weight for every 20^^^^ lbs. hay, or its equiva-
lent, eaten.

Harvey Dodg-e^s Statement.

Near steer three years old this spring. Trial commenced
January 3, 1852 ; weight, at commencement, 1,075 lbs., at
close of trial, 1,125 lbs., mean weight, 1,100 lbs. ; gain in eight
weeks, 50 lbs. ; on uncut hay, 55 lbs., loss on cut hay, 5 lbs. ;
eat, in eight weeks, 916 lbs. hay ; 447 lbs. cut hay and 469 lbs.
uncut hay.

Off steer, of the same age ; trial began at the same time ;
weight at commencement, 1,080 lbs., at close of trial 1,160 lbs.,
mean weight, 1,120 lbs. ; gain in eight weeks, 80 lbs. ; on cut
hay, 75 lbs., on uncut hay 5 lbs. ; eat, in 8 weeks, 949 lbs. hay;
469 lbs. cut and 480 lbs. uncut hay.

During the eight weeks each steer had two quarts meal per

190 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

day, which is equivalent to 293 lbs. hay, making, for near steer,
equal to 1,209 lbs. hay, and for off steer, equal to 1,242 lbs. hay ;
their daily consumption of food was, in hay, equal to two per
cent, of their live weight, or one pound in addition of weight
to every 18 j^^''^ lbs. of food equivalent to hay eaten.

William S. Lincoln's Statement.

Cow Beauty, four years old 13th May 1852 ; calved 14th
June, 1851, in milk, expected to have another calf June 30,
1852. Trial commenced 9th January, 1852 ; weight at com-
mencement, 915 lbs., at close of trial, 1,030 lbs., mean weight,
967^- lbs. ; gain, in eight weeks, 125 lbs. ; on cut hay, 100 lbs.,
on uncut hay, 25 lbs. ; eat, in eight weeks, 1,354| lbs. ; 685|-
Ibs. cut, and 668^ lbs. uncut hay.

Cow Cherry, four years old this spring ; calved on the 20th
June, 1851, in milk, expected to have another calf 14th May,
1852 ; weight, at commencement of trial January 9, 1852, 815
lbs., at close of trial, 850 lbs., mean weight, 832^- lbs. ; eat, in
eight weeks, 926| lbs. ; 4641 lbs. cut hay and 462| lbs. uncut
hay ; gain, in eight weeks, 35 lbs. ; 30 lbs. on cut hay and 5
lbs. on uncut hay.

In addition to the hay, each cow eat 648 lbs. carrots, equal
to 171 lbs. hay, which would make, for Beauty, equal to 1,525|-
lbs. hay ; for Cherry, equal to 1,097| lbs. hay. In the mean
time Beauty gave 413| lbs. milk ; 229 lbs. 4| oz. on cut hay,
and 184 lbs. i oz. on uncut hay ; and Cherry gave 442 lbs. 15
oz. milk ; 209 lbs. 13| oz. on cut hay, 233 lbs. and 1| oz. on
uncut hay. The daily food of Beauty was equivalent to 2-^^
per cent, of her live weight, and that of Cherry, to 2 j*q per cent.
The gain of the two cows was one pound of flesh for every 16
r^^ lbs. of food equivalent to hay eaten.

Amherst H. Hawes^s Statement.

Near ox, six years old this spring ; trial commenced l^th
December, 1851 ; weight, at commencement of trial, 1,520 lbs.,
at close of eight weeks, 1,646 lbs., at close of eleven weeks,
1,628 lbs.; mean weight for eight weeks, 1,583 lbs., eleven
weeks, 1,574 lbs. ; gain, in eight weeks, 126 lbs. ; 120 on cut,
and 6 lbs. on uncut hay ; gain, in eleven weeks, 108 lbs. ; 122

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 191

lbs. on cut hay, and loss on uncut hay, 14 lbs. ; having eaten
in eight weeks, 2,106 lbs. hay ; 1,078 cut, and 1,028 lbs. uncut
hay; and in eleven weeks, 2,925 lbs. hay; 1,351 cut, and 1,574
lbs. uncut hay.

Off ox, of same age, and time of trial same ; weight, at
commencement of trial, 1,500 lbs., at close of eight weeks,
1,601 lbs., at end of eleven weeks, 1,617 lbs. ; mean weight for
eight weeks, 1,552 lbs., for eleven weeks, 1,558| lbs. ; gain, in
eight weeks, 104 lbs. ; on cut, 17 lbs., on uncut hay, 87 lbs. ;
gain, in eleven weeks, 117 lbs. ; on cut hay, 32 lbs., on uncut
hay, 85 lbs. ; having eaten in eight weeks, 2,106 lbs., 1,028 lbs.
cut, and 1,078 lbs. uncut hay ; and eaten in eleven weeks, 2,925
lbs., 1,574 lbs. cut, and 1,351 lbs. uncut hay.

The daily food of these cattle has been, in hay, about 2^-^
per cent, of their live weight, or one pound in addition of
weight to every 18^^^^^ lbs. of hay eaten.

The eight animals with which the before mentioned trials
were made, eat in eight weeks: —

5,343 lbs. cut hay, | and gained in weight 401 lbs., or 13j9JL.
261 lbs. equivalent, ) lbs. hay, to 1 lb. in weight gained.

and gained in weight, 239 lbs,, or 23
^y^ lbs. hay, to 1 lb. in weight gained.

5,5961 u •

Greater gain on cut hay than on uncut hay, by 68 per cent.,
and only 7|^ lbs. more cut hay consumed.

Mr. Lincoln's two cows eat 1,150 lbs. cut hay, and gave
439| lbs. milk; and eat l,131i- lbs. uncut hay, and gave 4171
lbs. milk ; greater yield of milk on cut, than uncut hay, 22 lbs. or
|-| per cent., and only 18| lbs. cut hay in addition consumed.

These experiments seem fully to have established the fact
that a much greater benejfit is derived from cutting good hay, as
food for cattle, than an equivalent for the expense of cutting,
if obliged to hire labor for that purpose. These experiments
were made under unfavorable circumstances. It is understood
that the cattle were unused to eat cut hay, and although some
of the cattle eat the cut hay readily, by the greater part it

5,604

5,3351

lbs.

uncut hay.

261

equivalent.

192 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

was refused until hunger induced to the consumption of it.
Another objection — the term of each separate trial was too
short; if the whole trial was to have continued but eight
weeks, it would have been better to have divided it into two
periods of four weeks each, than into four periods of two
weeks each. There was a loss at each time of changing the
food, by a part of the cattle not eating it so freely. It is now
become manifest that the cutter can be profitably employed in
chaffing hay, whether the whole be good, or a portion of in-
ferior quality, straw, cornstalks and buts. Of the latter,
cornstalks and buts, they are believed to be intrinsically of
more value, than they have usually been estimated; when
properly cured, they afford very nutritious food, of which cattle
are fond, and if passed through a cutter, very little will be
rejected. If the stalks and buts be not of a good quality,
it will still be expedient to cut thein, the cattle will eat a
larger proportion, and what is refused by them will be more
readily decomposed. Those who have been compelled, with
much hard tugging and pulling, to shovel over manure in which
uncut cornstalks and buts have been mixed, will readily admit
that the use of the cutting machine would have saved them
much hard work, so much so as well to pay for the labor of
cutting the stalks and buts.

It is understood that a man with a fair hand cutting machine
can easily cut, during any of the short days of winter, a ton
of hay, and not have a hard day's work at that.

Those who have large stocks of cattle, will find it profitable
to make use of some animal power (horse or ox), to aid in
cutting their food for them. The same power may be used in
cutting vegetables, sawing wood, &c. The quantity of food
required for the support of cattle, as established by these experi-
ments, although no greater than is stated in some agricultural
publications, is believed to be considerably larger than has been
usually estimated by the farmers in this vicinity. The steers of
Mr. Dodge requiring but little for additional growth, beyond their
support in good condition, consumed in hay, or its equivalent,
daily, not less than two per cent, of their live weight ; the dry
cows of Mr. Demond, for their own support and for the support
of the calves with which they were pregnant, demanded for
their food an amount of hay, or its equivalent, equal to two

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 193

and a third per cent, of their live weight, and this proportion
would be constantly increasing until they dropped their calves.
The cows of Mr. Lincoln required a sufficiency of food for their
own support, the supply of milk they were giving, and the sus-
tenance and growth of the calves within them, of which they
would be delivered at different periods. The one consumed in
food or its equivalent in hay, two and four-tenths per cent., and
the other two and four-fifths per cent, of their live weight. Of the
oxen referred to in the trial by Mr. Hawes, they required more
food in consequence of their being employed in labor instead
of being at rest, and more in consequence of being exposed to
the inclemency of the weather for a part of the day, instead
of being in the barn protected from the cold. The consump-
tion of food by them was two and four-tenths per cent, of their
live weight. These facts are important for the information of
every farmer that may be enabled to calculate with more pre-
cision whether he has sufficient sustenance for his stock
through the winter, making a liberal allowance for a late spring.
No man can afford to stint his stock in their food. Should he,
at any time have reason to fear that his supply of hay, straw,
&c., may be insufficient to carry his stock well through the
season, it will be far better for him to sell a part at a reduced
price, or even to give them away, than to allow them to be-
come poor. An ox or a cow poor in the spring, will require
nearly the whole of the summer months in good feed to re-
cover its condition, and its use of little benefit to the owner;
With young cattle, to be stinted in their growth through
poverty, is an irreparable injury.

Of the manner adopted by Mr. Dodge in the care of his steers,
the committee cannot approve. After the first week they were
confined wholly within the barn, without being allowed to go
out for drink or for air and exercise. They were fed twice
each day, and had water given to them but once each day.
That cattle closely confined will take on fat more readily, is
undoubtedly true, but in this instance the tendency to increase
in flesh was counteracted by their not being fed and watered
so frequently as they should have been. Cattle should have
food with much regularity at least three times a day, and during
the long winter nights, particularly where the barn is so con-
25

194 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

veniently located with reference to the house as is that of Mr.
Dodge, a fourth time (in the evening) would be preferred.
Where the food for twelve hours is laid before the animal at
one time, the quantity is so great that much of it is necessarily
blown upon for a considerable time, and is not afterwards
readily eaten. An animal deprived of drink twenty-four hours
would become quite thirsty, and would, when allowed to drink,
take into the stomach a large quantity of water, which would
occasion suffering, both from the coldness, until it became
warmed by the internal animal heat, and also by the distension
of the stomach which it would occasion. It has been found
that when cattle can drink at pleasure, they drink often,
and in small quantities. It is desirable to conform to the
natural habits of our animals, so far as is practicable. This
mode of feeding as applied to the steers, is not the manner
Mr. Dodge would adopt for his whole stock, or which can be
recommended to farmers to pursue. The statement of Mr.
Dodge contains much valuable information, not only in rela-
tion to feeding, but also as to the amount of the solid manure
voided by the cattle in proportion to the hay consumed, which
it is important should be more generally known by farmers :
and to this the liquid manure is to be added, in order to esti-
mate the loss occasioned to a farm in selling off the hay and
straw grown upon it.

The committee, after having carefully considered the several
statements of the different competitors, have awarded the first
premium of $30 to William S. Lincoln ; the second premium
of $20 to Amherst H. Hawes. As to the statement of Mr.
Hawes, the committee had at first some doubt whether it was
proper for them to take it into consideration, he not having com-
plied with all the requirements of the society, in having failed
to give the average of the temperature in the barn as indicated
by the thermometer. Upon further examination, they found that
the two oxen stood side by side when in the barn, and when
out, worked side by side in the yoke, and were therefore " con-
stantly in the same temperature," and equally aflfected by the
warmth or cold to which they were exposed, the average de-
gree of which could only be given as to the barn. It would
therefore be very imperfect as applied to this case. That the

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 195

cold to which they were exposed, the average of which could
not be given, had an important bearing upon the amount of
food required for the support of the cattle, and the uses to
which that food must be applied, the committee did not doubt;
and adjudged that they had been furnished in this case with
all the information of which they could have availed them-
selves, that the omission could not have had any influence in
their decision ; and that they would therefore receive the state-
ment as a substantial compliance Avith the conditions imposed
for the trial, and consider it accordingly.

The committee would fail in the discharge of their duty, did
they omit to express their strong disapprobation of competitors
assuming to decide whether the regulations of the society are
judicious as applied to their case, and non-complying with
such rules as they do not approve : that is a question not sub-
mitted to them ; they should strictly comply with all the re-
quirements, and furnish the desired information to be used in
such manner by the judges, as in their discretion they may
think proper.

The duty of the chairman was very easy, as the decision of
the committee was made without the necessity of an expression
of an opinion from him. He would, however, add, that he
fully concurs with them in the result to which they arrived.
He was charged by his associates with the duty of expressing
to Messrs. Demond and Dodge their thanks, and those of the
society they represent, for the time and trouble they have de-
voted to the attainment of information which they believe to
be highly valuable to the agricultural community, and from
which they hope that these gentlemen will derive benefits
which will more than compensate them for the inconvenience
these experiments have occasioned them.

In relation to the relative value that straw, turnips, carrots,
and Indian corn meal, bear to good hay, the committee have
preferred to use the tables adopted by distinguished writers on
agriculture, than to rely on their own opinions. They are,
however, strongly impressed with the belief that in this case
the value of carrots and corn meal, particularly the latter, is
estimated too low, and this opinion receives confirmation from
the result of the experiments of the Hon. John Brooks. Had

196 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

they adopted their own estimates of the value of these articles,
the awards would have been the same.
All which is respectfully submitted.

By order of the committee,

John W. Lincoln, Chairman.

Cliarles B. DemoncVs Statement.

Gentlemen, — Not being fully satisfied in my own mind, as
to the advantages or disadvantages of cutting hay as food for
stock, I was encouraged by the society's premium to try an
experiment. The following are the results. The trial was
made with two cows, each seven years old, of native breed,
and ordinary size ; they were dried about the 10th of Decem-
ber, and kept during the month on coarse fodder, meadow hay,
oat straw, &c. On the 1st day of January the experiment
commenced. No. 1 calved the 4th day of March, 1851. No.
2 calved the 28th of February, 1851. Both cows are expected
to come into the dairy on the 9th of March, 1852 ; they were
fed on dry hay, with a half peck of turnips per day.

No. 1.

( Weight, 870 lbs.
Fed on cut hay, 1st two weeks, | Hay eaten, 316 lbs.

( Gain in weight, 24 lbs.

( Weight, 894 lbs.
Long hay, 2d two weeks, . . ] Hay eaten, 284 lbs.

( Weight, 906 lbs.
Cut hay, od two weeks, . . . < Hay eaten, 295 lbs.

( Gain, 14 lbs.

( Weighty 920 lbs.
Long hay, 4th two weeks, . . < Hay eaten, 279 lbs.

( Gain, 11 lbs.
Gain during trial, 61 lbs.

No. 2.

{ Weight, 850 lbs.
Fed on long hay, 1st two weeks, \ Hay eaten, 298 lbs.

( Gain in weight, 17 lbs.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 197

f Weight, 867 lbs.
Cut hay, 2d two weeks, . . . < Hay eaten, 308 lbs.

{ Weight, 884 lbs.
Long hay, 3d two weeks, . . < Hay eaten, 288 lbs.

(. Gain, 16 lbs.

( Weight, 900 lbs.
Cut hay, 4th two weeks, . . . < Hay eaten, 252 lbs.

( Gain, 9 lbs.
Gain during trial, 59 lbs.

During the 3d week of trial, No. 1 was accidentally hooked
by another animal in the abdomen, which, I think, must have
caused her pain, and she did not do as well, perhaps, as she
otherwise would have done. No. 2, during the last week of
trial did not appear to have so good an appetite as usual, the
hay was a little finer, and when cut, she did not relish it as
well. The hay used was a mixture of timothy and redtop,
about equal. The animals were kept in the barn all the time,
(excepting being turned out to water twice a day,) at a tem-
perature averaging 41 degrees. The turnips were fed to them
in common with my other cattle in the morning. The cows
are not fat, but in what would be called very decent order.
The time of weighing was in the morning, and before they
had drank. Changing the cows from poor to good hay will
account, perhaps, for their consuming more hay, and gaining
more in weight during the first period of trial than afterwards.
The hay was weighed and the animals fed by myself, and I
have endeavored to be as accurate as possible.

Grafton, March 2d, 1852.

Harvey Dodgers Statement.

Sir, — The two animals on which I have been experimenting
for eight weeks during the last winter, and on which your pre-
mium is claimed, are a pair of half blood North Devon steers,
two years old past, or three years coming, dark red color, well
built, and very similar in all respects to each other. From 10
to 35 lbs. in weight is the greatest difference in the two at any

198 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

time for four months past. No diiTercnce in keeping has been
permitted, at any time, to grow one faster than the other. They
came from the pasture the first of winter in good condition,
and were fed on good hay, corn fodder, and half a bushel of
flat turnips per day, to the 4th of January. They were then
put into a close stable by themselves, one tied eight feet from
the other; boxes, or close cribs, were so fixed that it was im-
possible for them to waste their own, or get each others food.
Water was given them in the stable, and they were not per-
mitted to go out of the stable except to be weighed once in
two weeks, and one day for ivoi'k, and this was during the first
week of my experiment, and will show, conclusively to my
mind, why they fell off in weight during the first two weeks.
They had been unaccustomed to the yoke and confinement in
the stable, and being very ambitious, worked beyond their
strength, and evidently did not recover themselves before the
end of the first two weeks. Their food was regularly given
them at 8 o'clock in the morning, and 4 in the afternoon,
and feeding was permitted after the first week only at these
two stated times. After the first week, water was given but
once a day, (at noon) ; though repeatedly offered at other times
it was generally refused after the first week. A full bucket of
water was weighed, and the number minuted, and the frac-
tions weighed back and minuted, and an average taken at the
end of each two weeks ; a thermometer was kept during the
eight weeks centreways between where the steers were tied,
in a box for the purpose fastened to the scaffold floor, and con-
sulted at 8 and 4 o'clock, (feeding time,) the degrees minuted,
and an average taken at the end of each two weeks, being
weighing day. The quality of hay was an average of what is
cut on my farm, about equal portions of herds-grass and red-
top, with a small quantity of clover mixed. A half bucket of
water was sprinkled on to their hay both cut and uncut after
being put into their crib, and the meal sifted on to the wet hay
at each feeding, (morning and evening,) which feed was gene-
rally consumed before the next feeding time ; if not all con-
sumed a less quantity was placed in the box for the next meal,
though they experienced no want of more food at any time
during the trial than what they received ; in short, they had
enough, and no more. The nigh steer would have preferred

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 199

long, or uncut hay, to cut, while the off steer seemed to prefer
cut feed from the very commencement, and so continued
through the different times he was on this feed ; and this cir-
cumstance accounts conclusively to my mind why the off steer
took on a greater share of weight during the times he was on
cut feed; and the nigh steer made his greatest weight on long
feed, (owing to his disrelish for cut feed, neither being accus-
tomed to cut feed before this experiment,) though I have no
doubt but what he would have become as fond of cut feed as
the off one in a short time, as most all animals do prefer cut
to uncut after being accustomed to it. I give below a state-
ment of the different experiments which were made with great
care, and recorded at the time.

Experiment No. 1, commenced January 3, 1852.

Nigh steer weighed 1,075 lbs., cut hay 194 lbs., and 2 qts. of
corn meal per day, making 2S qts. for 14 days. Temperature
— average past two weeks, 28 degrees above.

Off steer weighed 1,080 lbs.; long hay consumed, 222 lbs.,
and 2 quarts of corn meal per day. For the last two weeks,
average temperature 28 degrees above. Water drank by the
pair after returning from weighing, 60 lbs.; average for the
two, 70 lbs. per day during the trial.

Experiment No. 2, commenced January 17, 1852.

Nigh steer weighed 1,065 lbs.; consumed 215 lbs. of hay,
uncut, 2 quarts of meal per day for the last two weeks ; tem-
perature, 18 degrees.

Off steer weighed 1,050 lbs.; cut hay, 215 lbs.; meal, 2 qts.
per day ; temperature, 18 degrees. The two steers drank, after
weighing, 93 lbs. water; average water for 14 days, 74 lbs. per
day.

Experiment No. 3, commenced January 31, 1852.

Nigh steer weighed 1,090 lbs.: cut hay, 253 lbs. ; 2 qts. meal
per day ; temperature, 32 degrees for the last two weeks.

Off steer weighed 1,070 lbs.; uncut hay, 258 lbs. consumed,
and 2 qts. of meal per day ; temperature, 32 degrees. Water
drank after being weighed, 63 lbs.; average water for the two
weeks, 70 lbs. per day.

200 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Experiment No. 4, commenced February 14, 1852.

Nigh steer weighed ],095; uncnt hay, 254 lbs.; 2 qts. meal
per day; temperature, 37 degrees. Water drank after weigh-
ing, 33 lbs.

Off steer weighed 1,105 lbs.; consumed 254 lbs. cut hay, 2
quarts meal per day ; temperature, 37 degrees above. Water
drank after weighing, 43 lbs. ; average water drank by the two
steers, 79 lbs. per day for the last two weeks.

February 28. Nigh steer weighed 1,125 lbs.; water drank
after being weighed, 32 lbs.

Off steer weighed 1,160 lbs. ; drank 36 lbs. water after being
weighed.

It will be seen by reference as above, that 949 lbs. of long
hay was consumed, and 916 lbs. of cut, making a difference in
favor of cut feed of 33 lbs. of hay. In experiment No. 1, the
nigh steer on cut feed lost but 10 lbs., while the off steer on
long feed lost 30 lbs. In experiment No. 2, nigh steer gained
25 lbs. on long, off steer gained 20 lbs. on cut. Experiment
No. 3, nigh steer gained 5 lbs. on cut, off steer 35 lbs. on long.
Experiment No. 4, nigh steer gained 30 on long, off steer 55 on
cut, showing the whole gain, after taking out the loss on ex-
periment No. 1, to be 130 lbs. 70 lbs. of this gain was made
by cut, and 60 lbs. by long feed, — showing a difference in favor
of cut feed over uncut, of 33 lbs. of hay and 10 lbs. of live
weight.

Sutton, March 15, 1852.

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

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204 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

It is necessary, in order to comply with the rule adopted for
the trial, to add a few particulars. The trial was made with
two cows. One, Beauty, calved on the 14th day of June last,
and is expected to come in on the last day of June, having
been served the 30th day of September last. She is one-fourth
Ayrshire, was raised by myself, and will be four years old the
13th day of May next. The other, Cherry, calved on the 20th
of June last, and is expected to come in on the 14th day of
May next, having been served on the 4th day of August last.
She was purchased by me, is said to have some Devon blood
in her, and is also four years old this spring. At the com-
mencement of the trial both animals appeared to be in good
health, but before the first period of trial had passed. Cherry
showed symptoms of disease. Her disease was the " horn
ail." I think a check was put to the disease and she began to
mend before the third period had expired, though she had not
entirely recovered till after the last fortnight of trial had com-
menced, or perhaps till its expiration. Her sickness was severe
during the first part of its continuance. Probably her health
was quite as good during the last fortnight, if indeed it was
not better than at any other period of the trial.

In conducting this experiment, my general management in
the stable has not been varied in the least particular, save so
far as the preparation of the fodder by cutting was concerned.
I have no doubt a greater gain may be obtained by forcing ;
but my aim has been so to conduct this experiment that others
might be satisfied what results would attend similar manage-
ment with their own stock.

The table shows the amount of food (hay and roots) fed to
each animal. Each of these cows has fared just like all the
rest of my stock, save that their hay on alternate fortnights
has been cut, and the amount of roots fed to them daily has
been determined by scales instead of measure.

Perhaps I should add that the milking is at regular hours,
at 6 A. M. and 6 P. M. ; that each morning each animai is
curried clean, turned out to drink, and allowed to return to the
barn as soon as she pleases ; that the barn is shut up till noon,
then the same course of watering is pursued, the barn shut up
again ; and so at night. At this time the cattle are kept out
till they can be bedded down, when they are turned in, fed.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 205

milked, and the barn shut up for the night. Tlie amount of
food consumed is put before the cattle at three meals.

Inasmuch as I have taken the sole care of my stock, I can
say with confidence that the weights of fodder and milk are
correct. The certificates of the weights accompanying this,
are vouchers for the gain or loss in live weight of the animals
at the respective times of weighing.

The committee will excuse an intrusion of my opinion upon
the advantage of cutting hay before feeding to stock, and in
what I say I have no reference to the experiment I have de-
tailed. My milking stock consisted of one cow which came
in the 29th of last October, the two trial cows, and one other
which calved last April, and is expected to calve again the first
of next April. Sometime before commencing this experiment,
I was feeding to my stock what would be called poor stock
hay with an allowance of roots. I commenced cutting this
hay for all my stock, young and old, (16 head,) occupying me
about 1|- hours daily. Almost simultaneous with feeding the
cut hay was an increase of milk, very perceptible as it was
milked in the pail. An inquiry was made by my wife, who
in person takes sole charge of the dairy, as to the cause of
this increase. An evasive reply was made. From day to day
the milk increased enough from the stock I have described, to
require the substitution of six quart for four quart pans, which
had been previously used. I think I am within bounds in
saying the increase was over a pint daily per cow, occasioned,
to the best of my knowledge, solely by the use of cut hay.
As to the general condition of my stock, the committee, should
they desire to look at it, can judge.

Whether, in your judgment, this may be the most or the
least successful of the experiments in determining this vexed
question, is of little consequence. I hope it may be of such
character as to induce to other more general and longer ex-
tended trials.

I should have added that the hay used was English, what is
called " old field," that it was universally fed dry, that the
times of feeding were regular throughout the entire period,
being 6 A. M., 1 and 6 P. M., and that the animals were weigh-
ed at each time early in the morning, say from 7 to half past
8, and always before being allowed to drink.
March 12, 1852.

206 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Letter from Hon. John W. Lincoln.

Gentlemen, — You will doubtless recollect that at the meet-
ing of the Trustees of the Worcester Agricultural Society, at
which it was agreed to offer premiums for the purpose of
ascertaining by experiments, the advantages or disadvantages
of feeding farm stock with cut or uncut hay, I stated that per-
sonally I should not be a competitor; that I had an opinion,
which I had been unable to find evidence to confirm or dis-
prove, and which I was desirous, as I deemed the subject of
much importance to the farmer, to have tested by experiment;
that I considered it desirable to excite as much competition
for the premiums as was practicable ; that to insure an addi-
tional trial I was disposed to say to Mr. Hawes, who has, for
about twelve years, had the immediate supervision of my
farm, that he might make the experiment with any of my cattle,
and should be entitled to the premium if the committee should
think that the result of the experiment made by him would
justify such an award, provided the Board should be of the
opinion that there was no impropriety in my so doing : Mr.
Hawes to be considered as standing in the same condition as
those competitors who should make the experiment with their
own cattle and food. The Trustees expressed their approbation
of this arrangement as being favorable to the society, thereby
increasing the competition. I accordingly made the proposi-
tion to Mr. Hawes, who assented to it with the express under-
standing, that I should have no pecuniary interest in the
question of premium, and should have nothing to do with the
experiment, except to aid in drawing the report from such facts
as he should furnish me, if he should desire it. Of my position
the Board were reminded at their meeting, when I was placed
on this committee.

Mr. Hawes made out a written statement of the weighing of
the cattle at the different times, and of the hay, cut and uncut,
which they had eaten during the different periods, addressed
to me, stating to me verbally several circumstances which
were not embodied in his report; believing that it was impor-
tant that all the facts in the case should be made known to
the committee, it became necessary that it should be rewritten,
which has been done and is now communicated to you.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 207

As my connection with Mr. Hawes, as it has been of many
years continuance, is generally known to the public, my posi-
tion in relation to this experiment would not be understood
without an explanation, which should define my position in
reference to this business, except to those who, like yourselves,
have been acquainted with all the facts in the case, which
seemed to render this statement necessary, and it is now sub-
mitted to your disposal.

Amherst H. Haives's Statement.

Hon. John W. Lincoln : Sir, — As requested by you, I have
made a trial of feeding with cut and uncut hay, with your
speckled yoke of oxen, in terms of one fortnight each. When
one was fed with cut hay, the other had uncut hay, and so
changing at the expiration of each two weeks, except at the
close, when the trial was prolonged. The trial was commenc-
ed on Monday, the 15th day of December last, at which time
the near ox weighed 1,520 lbs., the off ox, 1,500 lbs., on the
hay scales of Henry S. Washburn, Esq., in the Quinsiga-
mond Village. Each ox was fed with the same quantity of
hay, of the same quality, 35 lbs. of uncut hay being eaten
each day, to the 29th December, by the near ox, and 35 lbs.
of cut hay by the off ox. On the 29th December the cattle
were again weighed on the same scales, and the near ox was
said to weigh 1,504 lbs., and the off ox 1,487 lbs. ; by this, it
would appear that the near ox had lost in weight 16 lbs., on
uncut hay, and the off ox 13 lbs. on cut hay. Between the
15th and 29th of December, these cattle were worked ten days
in drawing heavy loads of green oak wood from the farm into
the village, some of them exceeding 11 feet in measure, princi-
pally to the houses of Hon. L. Lincoln and W. S. Lincoln,
Esq., they being one yoke of a team of two pairs of cattle. It
should be stated, that I then believed that there must have
been an error in the last weighing, as above stated ; I was of
the opinion that the cattle had both gained in weight during the
fortnight, instead of having lost any of their flesh ; such was
also the opinion of others, who saw them, and that opinion
seems to be confirmed by subsequent results. The weight, as
given by the hay scales, on the 29th December, was, for the

208 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

near ox, 1,504 lbs., for the off ox, 1,487 lbs. ; they each of them
had 38 lbs. of hay per day, the near ox having cut hay, the off
ox uncut hay. On the 12th of January last they were weighed
on the hay scales of William B. Fox, Esq., the scales of H. S.
Washburn, Esq. having been rendered useless by an accu-
mulation of ice ; the scales of W. B. Fox, Esq., were used
during the remainder of the trial. The weight this day, as
given by the scales, was, for the near ox, 1,594 lbs., for the off
ox, 1,556 lbs. ; each ox during the preceding two weeks had
eaten 38 lbs. of hay per day, and if there was no mistake in
the last weighing on Mr. Washburn's scales, the near ox had
gained 90 lbs. on cut hay, the off ox, 69 lbs. on uncut hay ;
during this period the oxen had worked ten days in drawing
logs to mill, and wood into the central village.

From the 12th to the 26th January, the cattle were fed with
38 lbs. of hay each, except on the 16th, 17th, and 18th days,
on which they eat 40 lbs. each ; on those days they performed
no labor, and were in the barn the greater part of the day.
The weight of the near ox was 1,616 lbs. ; of the oft' ox 1,586
lbs., from which it appears that the near ox had gained 22 lbs.
on uncut hay, and the off ox 30 lbs. on cut hay — during this
time the cattle worked ten days in drawing wood to railroad.

From the 26th of January to February 9, each of the oxen
eat 39 lbs. hay per day, and at the last mentioned time the
near ox weighed 1,646 lbs., and the off ox 1,604 lbs., from
which it appears the near ox gained 30 lbs. on cut hay, and the
off ox 18 lbs. on uncut hay — during this time the cattle worked
ten days in drawing logs to mill.

From the 9th to the 16th of February, the cattle were worked
six days in drawing wood and rocks, and each eat 39 lbs. hay
per day ; on the last mentioned day the scales gave to each ox
the same weight as on the same day a week before, the near
ox having uncut hay, the off ox cut hay. *

From February 16th to 23d, one week, the cattle, each of
■them eat 39 lbs. hay each day, and were worked six days in
drawing wood, rocks, &c., and on the 23d February the near
ox weighed 1,648 lbs., and the off ox 1,602 lbs., by which it ap-
pears the near ox gained two lbs. on cut feed, and the off ox
lost two lbs. on uncut hay. From February 23d to March 1st,
one week, the cattle were worked six days in drawing rocks,

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 209

wood and logs ; at the expiration of the term the near ox
weighed 1,628 lbs. and the off ox 1,617; the near ox having
lost 20 lbs. on uncut hay, the off ox gaining 15 on cut hay. As
time would not allow the continuance of the experiment, and
allow time to make out a report, it was here closed. It will be
seen that during the whole time the near ox has gained 108 lbs.,
the off ox 117 lbs., making 225 lbs. ; the near ox has gained
on cut feed 122 lbs., the off ox has gained on cut feed 45 lbs.,
and lost 13 lbs. ; net gain 32 lbs., making 154 lbs. gain on
cut feed ; the near ox has gained on uncut hay 22 lbs., and
lost 36 lbs., net loss 14 lbs. ; the off ox has gained on uncut
hay 87 lbs., and lost 2 lbs., net gain 85 lbs. ; gain on uncut hay
for the pair, 71 lbs. ; greater gain on cut hay than uncut,
83 lbs., provided there was no mistake in the second weight of
the cattle. If no account is taken of the first four weeks, the ""
net gain in favor of cutting hay is 59 lbs.

A great advantage in cutting hay, at least for working stock,
was very obvious during the whole of this experiment ; before
the ox feeding on uncut hay had gotten one-half through with
his allowance, the ox which had cut feed, had eaten up what
was given him, and was lying dov/n taking his rest, and this,
at noon, when but little time is allowed for eating and rest,
must be an advantage of no small importance.

The labor of the cattle for the last six weeks, and par-
ticularly of the last week, was quite severe ; the loads were
usually heavy, and in consequence of considerable bare ground,
the draught was in many cases very hard.

The state of the atmosphere it was not possible to take ac-
count of, as the cattle were employed at labor in the open air,
without anything to protect them from its severity, (probably
suffering more when standing for the loads to be put on than
when in exercise,) and would not immediately recover from the
effects of their exposure, upon being returned to the barn.
The barn where they were kept is warm ; at no time during
the winter has the manure where the cattle stood been in anv
manner stiffened by the action of the frost. The temperature
in the barn must have been nearer 40 than 30 degrees ; but
little regard was paid to the warmth of the barn, the cattle
being absent so large a portion of the time. It may be proper
here to state that it has been deemed expedient to keep open,
27

310

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

through all the hours of the day, the upper half of a small
door for the benefit of air and ventilation, in addition to some
small windows. The average number of hours that the cattle
have worked per day, has been six, but during the latter part
of the term their hours were occasionally extended to nine.
During the whole trial the oxen had nothing given them to eat
except hay as stated, and their only food from the loth Decem-
ber to March 1st, both inclusive, was hay and water.

Had I exercised my own discretion in this matter, I should
have selected two animals for the trial who would have had
nothing to do, but to eat and groiv fat, as more likely to fur-
nish a result which would have appeared far better on paper,
and then should have been able to have complied with all the
requirements of the society. You will recollect that you sug-
gested to me to make the trial with the working oxen, saying
that you wished the trial should be made under all the cir-
cumstances common to a farmer's stock ; that it was perhaps
more important as applied to working stock than any other;
that you doubted whether any other person would make a trial
with oxen actually at work at the time, and expressed a wish
that I would do it. I yielded to your wishes, and at your re-
quest have made the trial, the particulars of which have been
stated, to be disposed of in such manner as the committee
shall judge proper.

These cattle were bred in Vermont, were purchased for you
when they were about three and a half years old, and about
these days are supposed to be coming six years old.

It should have previously been stated that the hay as given
to the cattle was all of it in a dry state.

I append hereto the state of the weather, as taken from the
tables kept by Dr. George Chandler, at the State Lunatic
Hospital, in Worcester.

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

211

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212

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Letter from Hon. John Brooks.

Gentlemen, — Herewith you have an account of some trials
in feeding which I have made within the last three months,
with a view to determine the relative value of different kinds
of food for producing milk, and the proportion of solid manure
to the hay consumed. I have purposely delayed this commu-
nication beyond the time named in the society's rules for
having all applications for premium on feeding filed with the
secretary, (the 15th of March,) because I do not propose for a
premium, but wish only to add whatever I may to the interest
of this important subject. You then, gentlemen, will not con-
sider me as competing with gentlemen proposing for premium,
but will dispose of this communication in any way you may
deem proper.

December 17, 1851, commenced feeding two cows about
seven months after calving ; the cows were gravid and expect-
ed to calve about the last of March next; live weight 1,600 lbs.;
one of them forty-four the other thirty-one months old. Each
trial continued five days. First five days fed on 2 per cent, of
live weight, —

Of cut hay, daily, 32 lbs.

2 lbs. of Indian meal, hay value,
Hay value of daily food.
Hay value of five days' food.
Cost of five days' food, hay at |c. per lb..
Milk in five days, .
Cost of milk, hay at |c. per lb., 1.616 cent the pound, or
3.232 cents the wine quart.

Second Trial, — Fed five days on 2| per cent, of live weight
of cut hay —

Cut hay, daily, 40 lbs.

Cut hay in five days, 20Q "

Cost of five days' food, hay at -|c. per lb., . . $1 00
Milk in five days, 60 "

Cost of milk, hay at '|c. per lb., 1.666 cent the lb., or 3.332
cents the wine quart.

These trials show that 2 lbs. of Indian meal, are very nearly

40 «

200 «

%1 00

61.875 «

WORCESTER SOCIETY.

213

equal to half per cent, of live weight of hay, or that one pound
of meal is equal, nearly, to 4 lbs. of good English hay.

Third Trial, — Fed five days on cut hay, . . 16 lbs.

32 lbs. oat straw, hay value, . . . . 16 "

2 lbs. Indian meal, hay value, .... 8 "

Hay value of food, daily, 40 "

Hay value of five days' food, .... 200 "
Cost of five days' food, hay at ^c. per lb., . . $1 00
Deduct 5 lbs. hay and straw, not consumed,
Milk in 5 days, 50 lbs., ....

Cost of milk, hay at half a cent a pound, 1.95 cent the lb.,
or 8.90 cents the wine quart. The hay and straw cut, and
given wet; the meal sifted over the hay and straw. This trial
seems to show that 2 lbs. of oat straw is not equal for milk to
1 lb. of hay.

Fourth Trial, — Fed five days on cut hay daily
Oat straw cut, 32 lbs., hay value,
2 lbs. Indian meal, hay value.
Hay value of five days' food.
Deduct six pounds, not consumed,

971

16 lbs.
16 "
8 "
200
6

—194 "
97c.

Cost of five days' food, hay at ^c. per lb.,

Milk in five days, AS-^q lbs.

Cost of milk, hay at |c. per lb., 1.995 cent per lb., or 3.99
cents the wine quart. The hay straw and meal were given
dry, and the trial shows that dry hay, straw, and meal, is not
so good for milk as when wet.

February 3, 1852, commenced feeding two cows, one thirty-
three months old, fourteen days after calving; live weight,
1,000 lbs.; the other thirty-one months old, seven months after
calving, not now in calf; live weight, 690 lbs. These cows
were fed five days on 42 lbs., or 2-|- per cent, of their live weight
of uncut hay, and 50 lbs. of flat turnips daily.

Uncut hay, daily, . . . . : .42 lbs.

Turnips, 50 lbs., hay value, 10 "

Hay value of five days' food, .... 260 "
Cost of five days' food, hay at ^c. per lb., . . $1 30
Milk in five days, 153.625 lbs.

214 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

Cost of milk, hay at ^c. the lb., .846 of a cent the lb., or
1.692 cent the wine quart.

Second Trial, — Fed five days on cut hay.

Cut hay daily, 42 lbs.

Turnips, 50 lbs., hay value, . . . . 10 "

Hay value of five days' food, . . . 260

Deduct five lbs. not consumed, ... 5

255 "

Cost of five days' food, hay at i cent per lb., . $1 27i^

Milk in five days, 152.25 lbs.

Cost of milk, .837 of a cent per lb., or 1.674 cent the wine qt.

The cows did not eat the cut hay quite so well as the long
hay on the first trial, so that on the whole the experiment
shows a small difference in favor of cut hay.

Third Trial, — Fed same as second trial, except gave three lbs.

Indian meal instead of 50 lbs. turnips.

Cut hay daily, 42 lbs.

3 lbs. Indian meal daily, hay value, . . . 12 "

Hay value five days' food, .... 270

Deduct 10 lbs. hay not consumed, . . 10

260 "

Cost of five days' food, hay at |- cent per lb., . |1 30

Milk in five days, 153 lbs.

Cost of milk, hay at ^ cent per lb., .849 of a cent per lb., or
1.698 cent the wine quart. This trial seems to prove, that 3
lbs. Indian meal is equal to 12 lbs. EngHsh hay, or 50 lbs. flat
turnips, for milk.

Fourth Trial, fed cut hay daily, .... 42 lbs.
33 lbs. carrots daily, hay value, . . . . 11 "
Hay value five days' food, . . . ' . 265

Deduct five lbs. hay, not consumed, . . 5

260 «

Cost of five days' food, hay at ^ cent per pound, $1 30
Milk in five days, 150.5 lbs.

Cost of milk, hay at -|- cent per lb., .863 of a cent per lb., or
1.726 cent the wine quart. This trial shows that 33 lbs. of
carrots are not quite equal for milk, to 50 lbs. of flat turnips.

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 215

or 3 lbs. of Indian meal. The cows in all the trials had free
access to water.

December 10, 1851, commenced feeding one cow 72 months
old, one do. 96 months old, one do. 48 months old, five heifers
32 months old, seven heifers 22 months old, four calves 9
months old, four calves 8 months old. These cattle weighed,
live weight, 14,567 lbs.; were fed five days on 277 lbs. of cut
hay daily, and drank daily, 887 lbs. of water ; dropped daily,
668 lbs. of solid manure, or 2.41 lbs. of manure for one lb. of
hay consumed.

Second trial commenced December 16, 1851. Fed same
cattle five days on 352 lbs. hay daily ; solid manure dropped
daily, 860 lbs., or 2.44 lbs. for one lb. of hay consumed; drank
daily, 868 lbs. water.

February 28, commenced feeding one cow, 72 months old,
one do. 96 months old, and one, 48 months old, three heifers,
82 months old, and six heifers, 22 months old. The live weight
of these cattle was 9,472 lbs. ; these cattle were fed five days
240 lbs. cut hay daily ; solid manure dropped daily, 594 lbs.,
or 2.47 lbs. manure for one pound of hay consumed. Drank
daily, 542 lbs. water.

Hay consumed in the three trials, . . . 869 lbs.

Manure dropped " » « ... 2,122 "

The proportion of manure to hay, is as 2.44 lbs. of manure
to one pound of hay ; the manure weighed 50 lbs. the cubic
foot.

Manure, after remaining under my barn one year, weighed
44 lbs. the cubic foot ; a loss of 6 lbs. in one year, or 12 per
cent, of its weight when recently dropped.

Princeton, March 22, 1852.

It has been thought expedient to connect wdth the foregoing
report, the following letter from Hon. John W. Lincoln, Presi-
dent of the society. Although it was originally written for
the columns of the New England Farmer, its paternity is jus-
tification for its insertion in the Transactions of the Society
over which he presides. The facts it details would seem to
settle vague surmises and conjectures which have been circu-

216 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

lated in reference to the value of carrots as food for milch
cows, and prove also the high place this crop should hold in
the mind of every good farmer, as food for his swine and stock
generally.

Letter from Hon. John W. Lincoln.

cows AND CARROTS.

Gentlemen, — I experienced no little surprise and regret oc-
casioned by the perusal of a communication addressed to you,
written by J. G. Hoyt, under the above head, and published in
the February number of the New England Farmer, in which
he states the opinion of a large milk farmer of Bradford, " that
carrots do not contribute in the slightest degree to increase the
amount of milk in a cow." That his informant maintains,
" that while the quality of milk may be improved by carrots,
the quantity is not perceptibly affected." He thinks " that
carrots, when fed out in ordinary doses, do not diminish in the
least the quantity of hay necessary for his cows ; but that they
serve merely as condiments." That " he is decidedly of the
opinion, that $3 is quite as much as a man can afford to pay
for carrots to tickle the palate of a pet cow." You may judge,
sirs, how much I differ in opinion from the Bradford farmer,
when I inform you, that for several years past, in addition to
the quantity I have raised on my own land, I have purchased
the surplus carrots of my neighbors, amounting to several tons
each year, and paid for them $9 per ton, delivered at my barn,
and did then, and now do believe, that I paid no more than
their value, not to tickle the palate of a pet cow, but to feed
out to my stock. I was disposed to inquii-e whether it was
possible I should be so greatly mistaken in my estimate of the
intrinsic value of carrots. I was aware that in the table of
Rham, of the relative value of different vegetable substances as
compared with good hay, carrots were not placed so high as
by me ; so also in the table of Boussingault, which has the
approbation of Professor Johnston, in his Agricultural Chemis-
try, but this was in the production of muscle. I knew that
the books were full of commendations of the culture of carrots
for stock generally, but particularly for horses, without one
word of discouragement, so far as I have knowledge. I had

WORCESTER SOCIETY. 217

full evidence that carrots were good food for swine. For sev-
eral years past, I have kept my swine principally on carrots
through the winter months ; they have been boiled, a small
quantity of cob and corn meal added, and with the slops of
the house, have been the only food of my swine ; deprive
them of the carrots, and the remainder of their food would
have been insufficient to sustain life. My winter stock of
swine has usually consisted of breeding sows, and they have
uniformly been in such condition, that I was entirely willing
that my piggery should be visited by any one disposed to in-
spect it, or its tenants. The usual observation has been, that
"those swine are too fat, to do well in having pigs." I formerly
kept my swine on potatoes, as I now do on carrots, and they
have never done better than of late years.

That carrots contain much nutriment, I cannot have a
doubt ; sufficient, as I apprehend, to induce farmers to grow
them in considerable quantities for the benefit of their stock:
that " when fed out in ordinary doses " they may so far im-
prove the health of the animal, as to enable it more completely
to digest their hay, by which to add to the covering of the ribs
and the secretions of the milk vessels. That either your
Bradford friend or myself was greatly in an error was most
manifest. After carefully recalling to recollection what I had
been able to obtain from books on this subject, my own expe-
rience, and that of others so far as it had come within my own
observation, without discovering the fallacy of my former
views, I was induced to inquire whether the opinions of the
Bradford farmer were correct, although expressed with much
confidence, and partially confirmed by the approval of two of.
the editors of your valuable publication, in whose agricultural
knowledge the public have placed so much reliance, that it
seems much like presumption to express a doubt. I was de-
sirous of further evidence. I read the communication to Mr.
Hawes, who h^s the immediate supervision of my farm, and
requested him to take two cows then giving milk, as much
alike as he could find them, ascertain what quantity of hay
they were then eating, continue to them the same quantity
of hay, but add to one of them a peck of carrots per day; and
after a trial of a week to change the carrots to the other cow,
watch the effect carefully, and to report to me the result. He
28

218 WORCESTER SOCIETY.

informs me that the milk of the cow eating carrots was in-
creased one quart, or more each day — on no day less than a
quart, and on some days a little more ; that the cow having
hay alone, constantly eat up her whole allowance, and the one
having carrots uniformly failed to do so, and this was the case
with both cows while having the carrots ; that each cow, when
deprived of the carrots, at the close of each trial, fell off in her
milk below the quantity given at the commencement, occa-
sioned, probably, by their becoming dry preparatory to having
their next calf, which is expected with both, about the first
days of June next.

Having thus obtained the testimony of two witnesses, (that
the use of carrots will not only tickle the palate of a pet
cow, but if administered in ordinary doses will increase the
quantity of milk, and diminish the quantity of hay necessary
for food,) whose competency to testify on this subject, will not
be questioned, I will here rest the case, repeating, that I have
much regretted the publication, in the apprehension, that it
might have the tendency of deterring many from growing root
crops for the winter food of their stock.

This difference of opinion furnishes evidence of the impor-
tance to the farmers of Massachusetts of having a school and
farm, where all similar practical questions can be settled under
the direction of a Board of Agriculture, to be established, as it
is hoped, by the present Legislature.

J. W. L.

Worcester, Feb. 17, 1852.

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 219

WORCESTER AVEST AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

This society held its annual exhibition Sept. 30th, 1852.
The exercises of the occasion commenced with the examina-
tion of horses, mares, and colts, of which there was a fine col-
lection of choice animals, mostly of the celebrated stock known
as the Morgan and Black Hawk races. High encomiums were
passed, by all observers, upon this feature of our exhibition —
represented by so many fine specimens of their kind — for
which this section of our county is justly celebrated.

The ploughing match, and trial of working oxen, came next
in order ; and from the numbers, skilful training, and fine con-
dition of the animals, together with the earnest competition of
the owners and drivers for the premiums, constituted a very
important feature of the day.

The several committees, in the order of their appointments,
next proceeded to their separate duties of examination of stock,
of which there was a large and choice collection, as fat cattle,
milch cows, heifers, bulls, steers, and calves.

The number of swine was large, and of superior breeds and
condition.

Several superior specimens of sheep, of various breeds, as
the South Down, Smyrna, Leicestershire, and native, were
exhibited, indicating an increasing interest of our farmers in
this valuable animal of farm stock.

The poultry exhibited, though not large in numbers, was of
superior quality, and choice and approved varieties.

The exhibition of roots, grain crops, butter, and cheese, was
of superior quality, and in fine condition.

The display of fruits exceeded the high-raised expectations
of all observers of this portion of our exhibition, celebrated as
it has heretofore been for numerous and choice varieties, and

220 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

the apparent skilful attention to the growth and health of the
trees, as well as the perroction of their fruits.

The arrangement and display of manufactured articles of
delicate fabric, presented by the ladies, together with the im-
plements of agriculture and various manufactured articles,
contributed essentially to promote the enjoyment and foster
the sentiments of social and virtuous emulation, so generally
attendant on the farmers' jubilee.

The society was addressed in a very able manner by Hon.
Amasa Walker, after which an interesting address from Fran-
cis Brewer, Esq., delegate to the society from the State Board
of Agriculture, when the society listened to the reports of the
several committees, and adjourned, to celebrate another pleas-
ant and profitable anniversary.

Respectfully submitted,

WM. PARKHURST, President.
JOSEPH N. BATES, Secretary.

Horses, Mares, and Colts.

The committee on horses, mares, and colts, have awarded
the first premium, of $10, to Col. H. A. Longley, of Belcher-
town, for his stallion, bay Kentucky Hunter. The committee
are of the opinion that said horse is one of great merit, and is
fast becoming too well known in our community to require
any recommendation from the committee.

The second premium, of $6, was awarded to Francis Twich-
ell, Jr., of Petersham, for his superior black stallion, a Morgan
horse, six years old.

Mr. Orin Trow, of Hardwick, presented for exhibition be-
fore the committee, his very fine bay horse, with several supe-
rior specimens of his stock, which were highly creditable to a
sire well known in the vicinity for his excellence.

There was a large and spirited exhibition of gelding horses,
and attended with a close competition for superiority of claims,
combining all the qualities of a superior horse, which existed
in each in a superior and rather high degree, yet with great
disparity.

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 221

The first premium, of $4, was awarded to Clark Jamerson,
of Hardwick, for his gray horse, four years old. In awarding
this premium the committee regret that they had not more
premiums to award, as the horses of Messrs. David Bacon, of
Barre, and W. A. Warner, of Hardwick, possessed merits, al-
though various, yet very equally balanced.

The committee award the premium of $3 to Moses Ruggles,
of Hardwick, for his superior three years old mare.

Artemas Lee, Chairman.

Mares and Colts.

The committee on mares and colts have been called to the
examination of a display of mares and colts of superior quality,
some of which have many points of decided excellence. Of
those presented for competition, the committee award the first
premium, of ^6, to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for the best
breeding mare, — his bay mare, eight years old, — English des-
cent, weighing 1,235 lbs.

The second premium, of $4, for the next best, to Harrison Ba-
con, of Barre, for his gray mare, six years old, Morgan descent.

For the best three years old colt, to Mr. A. Putnam, of Hold-
en, for his sorrel colt, sired by Abbott horse, the premium of $3;

For the best two years old colt, to Dr. James Stone, of Phil-
lipston, for his bay colt, sired by Green-Mountain Morgan, |2.

For the best yearling colt, to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for
his Black Hawk, — sired by Black Hawk, of Bridport, Vt., —
from his bay mare, $2.

For the best sucking colt, to Mr. James H. Ban, of New
Braintree, for his bay colt, sired by Trow horse, $2.

The committee would only add their testimony to the judg-
ment of the entire body of spectators, that the display of ani-
mals was unusually fine, and would seem to demonstrate that
by close attention to the qualities of the parents, this section
of our county may become as distingushed for the successful
rearing of horses, as for the other departments of agriculture.

Edwin Woods, Chairman.

222

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

Ploughing.

The committee appointed to report on the ploughing match,
having attended to that duty, submit the following report : —

There were in all ten entries. The committee award to —
George Harwood, of Barre, the 1st premium, of

Nathan S. Walker, "

William Robinson, Jr., "
Eri Parlin, of Petersham, the
Perry Carruth, "

George H. Lee, of Barre, the
James H. Carruth, "

7
6
5
4
3
2
1

The plough of John Smith would have been entitled to pre-
mium had he been the owner of the plough the length of time
specified in the regulations of the society.

Nathaniel Holland, Chairman.

Working Oxen.

The committee on working oxen have attended to that
duty, and submit the following report : —

There were entered for premium seven pairs of working
oxen. Your committee, after trial, have awarded premiums to
individuals as follows :

Nathan S. Walker, of Barre, the 1st premium,' of .
Francis Twichell, Jr., of Petersham, the 2d premium, of
Wilcut Harwood, Jr., of Barre, the 3d premium, of
John Smith, " 4th "

George Harwood, " 5th "

Caleb Harwood, " 6th «

Warner Smith, « 7th "

7
S
5
4
3
2

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 223

To Nathan S. Walker, of Barre, the society's premium of
$2, for the consideration of his being the most skilful and
competent driver.

Anson T. Allen,
Jonas H. Howe,
Silas O. Harding,
James Whitney,
WiLCUT Harwood,
Committee on Working Oxen and Drivers.

Bulls.

The committee on bulls, two years old and upward, re-
spectfully make the following report : —

Eight fine animals were examined, weighing in the aggre-
gate 13,250 lbs.

The committee unanimously, after a careful examination,
award the premiums as follows :

To Calvin Sanford, of Barre, for his full blood Durham bull,
weighing 2,100 lbs., seven years old, the first premium, of $7.

To Samuel Ellsworth, of Barre, for his full blood Durham
bull, four years old, weighing 1,675 lbs., the second premium,
of |5.

To Mr. Nathan S. Walker, of Barre, for his full blood Dur-
ham bull, four years old, weighing 1,420 lbs., the third pre-
mium, of $4.

To Nelson Loring, of Barre, for his quarter Durham three-
quarter native bull, weighing 1,210 lbs, the fourth premium, of
$2.

By order of the committee,

John Raymond, Chairman.

The committee on bulls, under two years of age, having
attended to the duty assigned them, respectfully report : —

That of bulls of the second class, they regret to say they
found but two animals to compete for the premium offered,
and those, in the opinion of the committee, were not so pro-
mising as they could have desired to see.

224 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

The committee award the first premium, of $5, to Reed S.
Ruggles, of Hardwick, for his bull, one year old, half Durham
half Hereford.

To John Corbin, of Barre, the second premium, of ^4, for
his bull, sixteen months old, seven-eighths Durham.

In passing to the third class, the expectations of the com-
mittee were more fully realized. They found in the pens eight
animals of the description that come within their jurisdiction,
and a finer company of youngsters could hardly be found in
one assembly for show and competition for the prizes. The
committee, on examining the several animals, their merits and
demerits, found no difficulty in determining which among the
good were best, and award the following premiums : —

To Oriston N. Doubleday, of Dana, the first premium, of
$5, for his bull calf, six and a half months old, three-quarter
Durham one-quarter native.

To Joseph Brown, of Petersham, the second premium, of
^4, for his bull calf, seven months old, half Devon three-eighths
Durham one-eighth native.

The committee, in awarding the above premiums, have the
pleasure of saying, that there were other animals in the com-
pany that came within their notice, and worthy associates of
their more fortunate competitors, and had they the means at
their disposal, would gladly have extended more substantial
favors to their owners than mere commendations ; but they
can only say to such, " Be not weary in well doing,"

The committee, in closing their report, beg leave to suggest
that there has been, in their opinion, a mistaken policy among
breeders of cattle in putting their bulls to service too young.
It is said, by many, that calves are better from a yearling bull
than from an older one, hence the older ones are thrust aside,
notwithstanding their many good points and qualities, to give
place to younger ones, which in their turn must give way to
others. When, if the bulls were kept from service till tv^'-o or
three years of age, as is believed to be the practice of breede'rs
in foreign countries, their stock would continue good, and we
should not witness the deterioration in the progeny of bulls,
that is so frequently complained of. It is believed that this is
an evil that ought to be considered by all who raise stock and

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 225

have animals of promise, and a practice pursued that shall
remedy the evil.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

HoLLis TiDD, Chairman.

Dairy Cows.

The committee upon dairy cows would respectfully re-
port : —

That for the best dairy of cows, not less than six in number,
they award the first premium, of $10, to Samuel Ellsworth, of
Barre. The precise requisitions of the society were not com-
plied with in this case in one respect. But your committee
were of unanimous opinion that these cows were well worthy
of the premium, and as they came in competition with no
others, in point of numbers, they had less hesitation in regard
to the want of compliance with a single printed rule of the
society. No other lot of cows was offered for premium.

For the best single cow they award the premium of $5 to
John Bemis, of Barre, for his four years old live-eighths Dur-
ham cow.

Also, to John Bemis, the second premium, of $3, for his
eight years old one-fourth Durham cow.

The above were the only single cows entered for exhibition —
for premiums.

A very fine cow was exhibited by George H. Lee ; also, two
fine animals by Calvin Sanford.

Respectfully submitted by the committee,

William Mixter, Chairman.

Samuel Ellsworih^s Statement.

I certify to the following facts, as to the weight of milk
daily received from six cows, one of which I exhibit, agreeable
with the regulations of the society.

The cow, Georgianna, five years old, one-half Durham, calved
the 1st of May; with calf again in March; was dry, during
the last winter, six weeks, calf very fine, and sold for veal.
29

226 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

June 10, yielded 50 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 29i lbs. milk.

11,

12,

13,

521

14,

511

15,

16,

51}

17,

50.V

18,

50^

19,

30|

351-

((

36^

-0,

35.V

Aggregate, 511 1 » « Aggregate, 332| " "

Cow, Barre Star. This cow is eight years old, one-half Dur-
ham, calved in April last, with calf again in March ; was dry
five weeks last season ; calf sold for veal ; very fine.

June 10, yielded 40 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 24 lbs. milk.

' " 2 '' 261 u ((

< a 3 a 2(3 u a

' u 4^ a 261 a u

' " 5, " 26| " "

' " 6 " 28 " "

' " 7, " 29 « "

' " 8, " 281- u a

' " 9, " 29" " "

' " 10, " 291 " "

11,

12,

13,

14,

411

15,

16,

421

17,

18,

19,

ii,

Aggregate, 416i " " Aggregate, 273| " «

Cow, Red Rose, eight years old, one-half Holderness, calved
in March, with calf again in March ; w^as dry seven weeks ;
calf raised.

June 10, yielded 40 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 25 lbs. rnilk.

11,

12,

411

271-

((

13,

((

14,

301-

((

15,

29|

((

16,

39-

-[in

heat,]

((

17,

lbs.

milk.

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 227

June 18, yielded 42.] lbs. milk. Sept. 9, yielded 29 lbs. milk.

" 19, " 421 " " « 10, " 30| " «

Aggregate, 417f " " Aggregate, 2»9]- « »

Cow, Ayrshire, five years old, one-half Ayrshire, calved in

April; calves again in April; was dry eight weeks; calf fat-
ted for veal — very fine.

June 10, yielded 38 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 20 lbs. milk.

a 11^ u 39 u u u 2, " 20 " "

" 12, " 39 " " " 3, " 21 " "

" 13, " 37 " " " 4, " 20 " "

» 14, " 40 « " . " 5, « 22 " "

" 15, « AU « " " 6, " 23 '^ "

" 16, " 38' " « " 7, " 2^ « "

" 17, « 381 " « u s, " 23"^ " «

« 18, " 381 « ii u 9^ u 23[ " «

« 19, " 39 " " " 10, " 23.V " "

Aggregate, 3881 » « Aggregate, 218^ " «

A native cow, eight years old, calved 1st February; with
calf again in February ; dry five weeks ; calf fattened for veal ;
very fine.

June 10, yielded 37 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 26 lbs. milk.

11,

12,

13,

It.

371

251

14,

381

24 '

15,

37|

(;

25f

16,

36:»

17,

38"

261

((

18,

25^

((

19,

38:1-

((

10,

241

Aggregate, 379^ « « Aggregate, 255^^ " "

Grizzled heifer, five years old. In calf in February ; with
calf again in February ; dry seven months, calf killed for
veal.

228 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

June 10, yielded 36 lbs. milk. Sept. 1, yielded 21 lbs. milk.

11,

12,

13,

38.1-

14,

37^

15,

16,

17,

351

18,

19,

371

((

231

24}

10,

Aggregate, 3701 " « Aggregate, 2281 " «

The milk was measured from each cow at difterent times,
and averaged 2| lbs. to the quart.

One day's butter from six cows, in June, . . 9| lbs.
« « " " " September, . 81 "

The cheese from one day's milk of six cows, when dried for
market, weighed 23| lbs.

The cows had extra feed of two quarts corn and barley
meal, for a few days, when on trial.

Samuel Ellsworth.
Barre, Sept. 29, 1852.

John Be?nis^s Statement.

My cow, eight years old, one-fourth Durham, was dried 1st
of March ; calved 1st of April ; she made 17 lbs. of butter
from the 10th to 20th of June, and gave 45 lbs,, or 20 quarts
of milk per day ; making 450 lbs., or 200 quarts.

She made, from the 1st to the 10th of September, 13 lbs. of
butter. She gave 34 lbs., or 15 quarts of milk per day. She
calves 20th April.

My cow, four years old, five-eighths Durham, was dried
15th March, and calved 4th of May. She made 20i- lbs. bet-
ter, from lOlh to 20th June. She gave 44 lbs., or 19} quarts
of milk per day, making 440 lbs., or 195 quarts of milk.

She made, from 1st to 10th of September, 14 lbs. butter.
She gave 34 lbs., or 15 quarts of milk per day. She calves
4th of April.

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 229

Heifers.

The committee on heifers, have attended to the duty assign-
ed them, and submit the following report : —

The whole number of two years old heifers entered for pre-
miums were four. The committee award

The 1st premium to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, . . ^4 00
" 2d " Wm. H. Bancroft, of Petersham, 3 00

« 3d " Willard Broad, of Barre, . . 2 00

The whole number of yearling heifers entered was four-
teen.

The 1st premium to Reed S. Ruggles, of Hardwick,
" 2d " Harrison Bacon, of Barre, .

" 3d " Thomas J. Chamberlain, .

The whole number of heifer calves, seven.

The 1st premium to Eliphalet Howe, of Barre, .
" 2d " Wm. W. Hinkley, "

Three lots of calves, not less than six in number, one pre-
mium to Nathan Hancock, of Barre, . . . . ^5 00

Respectfully submitted, in behalf of the committee,

Jason Goulding, Chairman.

Steers and Calves.

The committee on three years old steers, after a careful and
impartial examination of all the three years old steers pre-
sented for exhibition and premium, (as time and circumstances
would permit,) have awarded the several premiums at their
disposal as follows :

Your committee examined a very fine pair of one-half Dur-
ham steers, owned and bred by Joseph Brown, of Petersham,
twin steers, party-colored, and very well matched in all points,
weighing 3,620 lbs., docile and well broke. They ran with
the cow in milk eight months ; fed on roots or meal daily,
through the winter, since fed on milk. Stalks and pumpkins

230 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

for a few weeks past ; and we award him the first premium,
of $5.

Also, a pair of steers, owned by Harrison Bacon, of Barre,
Durhams, well broke, and of fine form, and matched ; in very
high order and indicating high keeping, weighing 3,565 lbs.,
and we award him the second premium of $4.

Also, a fine pair owned by James A. Jackson, of Petersham,
one-half Durham, weighing 3,140 lbs., well matched, and broke,
fine steers, considering their keeping; one raised on skimmed
milk, the other weaned early ; no meal or roots, except a few
last winter. We award him the third premium, of $3.

A pair of fine steers, owned by John Saunderson, of Ber-
nardston, and kept in Barre, weighing 2,940 lbs., in fair work-
ing condition, well matched and broke. We award him the
fourth premium of $2.

Mr, Sampson Eames, of Hardwick, and Albert Cleaveland,
of Barre, also presented fine animals.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

Joseph Raymond, Chairman.

The committee on two years old steers, award the first pre-
mium to Daniel Warner, of Hardwick, for his roan steers,
weighing 2,750 lbs., $4.

The committee on yearling steers and calves, to Daniel
W^arner, of Hardwick, for a pair of well matched steers,
weighing 1,905 lbs., the first premium, of $3.

To Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for his Durham steers, weigh-
ing 1,885 lbs., the second premium, of $2.

To John Raymond, of Hubbardston, for his nicely matched
steers, weighing 1,846 lbs., the third premium, of $1.

Calves. — To Samuel M. Stevens, of Petersham, first pre-
mium, of $2.

To Warner Smith, of Barre, second premium, of $1.

D. A. Robinson, Chairman.

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

231

Fat Oxen.

The committee on fat oxen report, that they have awarded
the first premium to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, for the best
pair of fat oxen, four years old, Durham, weighing, 4,370 lbs.,

The second premium to John Saunderson, of Barre, for the
next best, weighing 4,988 lbs., $8.

The committee award to Harrison Bacon, of Barre, the first
premium, of $5, for a fine fat cow, seven years old, weighing
1,760 lbs.

The second premium, to Nathan Rice, Jr., for a fat cow,
nine years old, weighing 1,380 lbs., $4.

Harrison Bacon, of Barre, presented one fat steer, three
years six months old, weighing 1,890 lbs.

For the committee,

Giles H. Whitney, Chairman.

Town Teams.

The committee on the largest and best team of oxen from
from any town, report as follows : —

One yoke, belonging to D. Crawford, of Oakham, weighing
2,473 lbs.

One yoke, belonging to Pearly Ayres, of Oakham, weighing
2,945 lbs.

Four yoke, belonging to J. P. Butterfield, of Oakham —

1 yoke weighing

1 «

3,010 lbs., five years old,
3,050 '' four "

2,045 " three "
1,835 " « "

David Lee, Chairman.

232 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

Sheep.

The committee on sheep, having attended to the duty as-
signed them, report : That the exhibition of sheep, considering
the limited attention paid to that class of stocii within the
borders of the society, has been highly creditable ; and they
express a hope that this exhibition, though small, may be the
means of calling the attention of our agriculturists to this
important branch of their business.

The committee award the first premium to Joseph S. Paige,
for his South .Down buck, ^3.

The second premium to Col. Jas. Robinson, for his Smyrna
buck, $2.

For the best lot of ewes : to Martin Wilson, of Barre, four
Smyrna ewes, 1st premium, $3.

The committee would recommend a premium of ^2 to Abi-
jah N. Wood and Joseph S. Paige, for their three South Down
ewes and one South Down buck, though not strictly in ac-
cordance with the rules of the society.

One Leicester buck and three Leicester lambs were exhib-
ited by J. B. Woods. The lambs were fine specimens of that
breed, and deserving a premium. The committee recommend
a gratuity for the same.

For the committee,

Edward Denny, Chairman.

Swine.

The committee on Swine have attended to that duty, and
report: That in their opinion the exhibition of swine surpasses
anything that has been witnessed, and that all that were offer-
ed were worthy of a premium. The committee award the fol-
lowing premiums : —

For the best boar, Suffolk, Peter Harwood, Barre, . $5 00
Next best boar, Suffolk, Nathan Rice, Oakham, . 3 00

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

233

Breeding Sows. — For the best breeding sow, Henry Ells-
worth, Barre, $8 00

Next best, David Rice, Barre, 4 00

'' " « 2 00

For the best Pigs : —

The first premium to Orin Spooner, Barre, . . $4 00

Next premium to Wilcut Harwood, " . . 3 00

« " H. P. Woods, " . . 2 00

« « Oliver and William Barrett, Barre, 1 00

Peter Harwood, Chairman.

Poultry.

The committee on poultry report as follows : The first pre-
mium, of $3, for best lot of Turkies, to Harrison Bacon, of
Barre.

The second to J. N. Bates, Barre, for best lot of barnyard
fowls, $3.

The third to Harrison Bacon, $3.

The fourth to T. B. Crawford, Oakham, $1.

Butter.

The committee on butter have attended to that duty, and
beg leave to report: — The committee would remark, that sev-
eral lots entered do not come within the prescribed rules of the
society, requiring that no lots contain less than 25 lbs. The
award of premiums is as follows: —

To Charles H. Davis, Barre, 1st premium,
" Henry Ellsworth, " 2d
« A. H. Fay, « 3d

" .J. W. Jenkins, Jr., " 4th
» Peter Harwood, " 5th

" Eri Parlin, Petersham, 6th

The committee regret that two boxes of very fine butter
30

$6 00
5 00
4 00
3 00
2 00
1 00

234 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

belonging to Mr. Roper, of Princeton, did not come within the
jurisdiction of the committee.

Respectfully submitted for the committee,

Jason Gorham, Chairman.

Cheese.

The committee on old and new cheese report the following
premiums as awarded : —

First premium on old cheese, to Mr. Asahel Clark, of New
Braintree, $5.

Second to Mr. Lorenzo Converse, New Braintree, %2>.

First premium on new cheese, to Mr. John Washburn, Barre,
p.

Second to Warner Smith, Barre, $5.

Third to Samuel S. Woods, New Braintree, $4,

Fourth to Mr. Job Ranger, New Braintree, $3.

Fifth to Mr. Lorenzo Converse, New Braintree, |52.

Sixth to Mr. William Robinson, Jr., Barre, %i.

Harding P. Woods, Chairman.

Root Crops.

The committee on root crops have attended to that duty,
and submit the following report : —

They will not deny that they are somewhat acquainted with
roots, but at the same time aver that they have neither been
so addicted to rooting as to need the applfcation of the. usual
preventative, nor the yoke of the dimensions required by the
old statute to prevent their transgressing upon the rights of
others, and they do not at present discover the necessity of
great exertions to provide for themselves, since they have such
an abundance and variety of superior quality brought within
their reach. But as they have had neither time nor opportu-
nity to prove their qualities by an epicurean test, they have

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 235

formed their opinions from experience and observalion only,
which are that the carrots, beets, onions, and turnips exhibited
by Mr. Charles Rnggles, of Hard wick, were very good and
excellent of their kind.

Mr. Otis Allen, of Barre, exhibited fine samples of carrots
and onions.

Sumner S. Walker, of Barre, good samples of French sugar
beets and mangel wurtzel.

C. Saunderson, of Phillipston, mangel wurtzel, of new va-
riety and good appearance.

Messrs. Joseph Robinson, H. P. Woods, G. H. Lee, Peter
Harwood, N. S. Walker, David Fay, David Kendall, Creighton
Ruggles, Moses Mandell, Otis Allen, Augustus Muss, Gardner
Macomber, J. Addison Merriam, of Barre, and Charles Rug-
gles, of Hardwick, presented samples of fine appearance and
quality.

Mr. W. Jamerson, of Barre, presented a great variety of po-
tatoes, of which no doubt some will prove of great excellence,
raised from the ball.

The committee award the first premium, of $5, to David
Bacon, of Barre, for his carrot crop. See statement.

The second premium, of ^4, to John W. Brigham, of Barre,
for his carrot crop.

Respectfully,

Gardner Ruggles, Chairman.

David Bacon's Statement.

The piece of land I sowed to carrots contained 107 rods;
one lot of 38 rods yielded 111 bushels, one lot of 41.^ rods
yielded 269 bushels, one lot of 28 rods yielded 219 bushels,
making in all 599 bushels.

expense:
Ploughing the land, 1 man and 1 yoke of oxen, . $2 50

28 loads of compost manure, made of 2 loads of mud

to 1 of long manure, ^28, one-half to carrot crop,
Harrowing and preparing for sowing seed,
Carting and spreading manure,
Carrot seed, .......

Sowing the seed, ......

. 14

236

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

$20

. 18

Hoeing, three times, ......

Harvesting the crop, ......

Interest on land, at $2 per acre,

$69 03
The land was part sowed to carrots two years and part one
year.

CREDIT TO LAND.

By 599 bushels of carrots, at 22 cents per bushel, . $131 78
" carrot tops, ........ 3 00

$134 78
69 03

Balance due to crops, .....

The crop was principally sold in the field for 22 cents per
bushel; those carted two, three, or four miles, 25c. per bushel.
Cost of carrots ll^c. per bushel.

Barre, Nov. 27, 1852.

John W. Brii^hamh Statement.

I spread four loads of compost manure, then ploughed deep,
let the earth He a few days, then run a cultivator over it to
break the lumps, ploughed again with a horse-plough ; then
bushed it down smooth, sowed with a seed-sower, leaving the
rows about 18 inches apart, weeded them three times, thinning
them the two first times. Calculated to have them about two
inches apart. Sowed the last of May ; gathered the crop the
last of October ; used a plough in digging them ; run the
plough so as to crowd them out a little, turning the furrow
from them.

Cost of preparing ground for seed.

$4 00

Manure,

4 00

Sowing, ......

Seed,

1 00

Weeding, three times, ....

. 12 00

Harvesting and marketing, .

8 50

Weighing, ......

1 25

Interest on land, at $2 per acre, .

3 00

$34 50

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

237

CR. TO CROP.

By 253 bushels carrots, 50 lbs. per bushel, sold at

25 cents per bushel, $63 25

Tops, 1 25

Net profit,

The amount of pounds, 12,650.

The amount of land improved, 40 rods.

$64 50
29 75

Grain Crops.

The committee on grain crops, report as follows : —

The committee award the first premium, of $4, to Martin

Wilson, of Barre, for his crop of barley, 77 bushels, raised on

1 acre 54 rods of land.

The committee award the second premium, of $3, to Calvin

Earle, of Hubbardston, for his crop of wheat, raised on 2 acres

59] rods of land, yielding 103| bushels of wheat.

Calvin Earless Statement.

The piece of land on which was grown the wheat presented
for premium was last year planted with corn, and manured
broadcast. Taking the ground in this state the debt and
credit is as follows : —

Team and man, 2 days' ploughing,
51 bushels wheat, at $1 50,
Cultivating in seed.
Sowing, ....
Interest on the land.
Harvesting,
Threshing grain, .

Whole amount,

CREDIT.

By 2} tons straw, $6, .
" 1031 bushels wheat, at $1 50,

. $3

. 12

. 10

. $37

. $21

. 155

Net profit,
Hubbardston, Sept. 28, 1852.

$176 25
139 25

238 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

Ploughs.

The committee on ploughs award the society's first premium
to Mr. Stephen Heald, of Barre, for his sward plough, $5.

Also the second premium to Mr. Heald, for his side-hill
plough, $3.

Mr. B. Martin exhibited several very superior looking
ploughs.

Charles Rice, Chairman.

Fruits.

The committee on fruits report the following: For the
best specimens of apples, with reference to their season, quali-
ties, &:c.

The 1st premium to David Kendall, of Barre, . . $3 00

» 2d " " Charles Ruggles, of Hardwick, . 2 00

" 3d " " Peter Harwood, of Barre, . 2 00

« 4th " " O. A. Tomblin, of N. Brookfield, 1 00

For the best and greatest variety of all kinds of fruit —

The 1st premium to Dr. J. N. Bates, of Barre, . . $3 00
» 2d " " Thos. Bond, of North Brookfield, 2 00

" 3d " " Moses Ruggles, of Hardwick, . 1 00

Pears. — 1st premium to Thos. Bond, of N. Brookfield, 2 00
2d " " Dr. J. N. Bates, of Barre, . 1 00

For the best specimens of winter squashes —
To Henry Brown of Hubbardston, . . . . 2 00
For next best, to George H. Lee, of Barre, . . . 1 00

Am AS A Walker, Chairman.

Farms.

In prosecuting the duties to which they were appointed, the
committee were called to examine two farms, the only ones
entered for the society's premium, "for the best managed farm,

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY. 239

of not. loss than one hundred acres, entire regard being had to
improvements, and economy in management for the last three
years." The applicants not contemplating the entry of their
farms for premium until the last year, have failed to make so
full a statement of the cost of labor done on their farms, within
the last three years on the various pirts thereof, and the value
and amount of the produce for the same time, as was desirable
to enable the committee to make a full and detailed report.
To supply this failure the committee were obliged to take
verbal statements, and write for themselves such particulars as
they could ol)tain, on inquiry made of the applicants at the
time of visiting their farms.

The committee have made their statement of the produce
and expenses of the farms, as complete as possible under the
circumstances, and they believe it essentially correct, for the
present year.

The amount of expense and value of produce, (although
the crops were somewhat larger for two years previous to the
year 1852,) one taken to be an average of that year, the prof-
its will therefore appear the same for three years.

The first farm visited, is own d by Mr. David Kendall, of
Barre, and is situated about one mile south-westerly of the
town, and contains 166 acres, and lies on a swell of land
on which are found some of the best farms in the town. Be-
side his farm Mr. Kendall has 67 acres of pasture, on which he
keeps a portion of his si^ock in summer.

The soil of his farm is a dark loam, made up of vegetable
matter, sand and clay, based upon a subsoil of clay and sand,
and is retentive of water. The farm is divided into 45 acres
of mowing, 69 of pasture, 11 of tillage, and 30 of wood-
land ; the remaining 11 acres is occupied by buildings, yards,
walls, &c.

There is no lasting water on the farm, except what is drawn
by pipes, from eleven artificial wells, sunk at different points
on the farm. Mr. Kendall has used, with good success, about
three tons of gypsum annu lly, upon his mowing and pasture
lands, at the rate of one bushel to the acre. No other manure
is used except what is made from his cattle and hogs, com-
posted wi h loam, carted from headlands and walls about his
fields. He manures his corn, by spreading and harrowing

240

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

in, fifteen loads of long manure, and putting fifteen loads of
conipot^t in the hill. Manures his potato crops, by spreading
and harrowing in fifteen loads to the acre. Ploughs his land
for corn in the autumn, from seven to eight inches deep.
There are, upon the farm, 500 apple trees, from five to thirty
years old, engrafted, and many of them in a bearing state,
beside other fruits, as peaches, pears, plums, cherries, &c. Mr.
K. has improved four acres of land within the last three years,
by removing stones into walls, at a cost of twenty-five dollars
the acre, and has also improved his water privileges, by dig-
ing new wells, and deepening old ones, and conducting the
water into troughs through lead pipes.

The committee found the valuation of Mr Kendall's farm

and outlands, upon the assessors books, to be . ^7,700 00

The annual interest on which is ... 462 00

The number and value of his stock, as estimated by the

committee is —

23 Cows, at $20 each, $460 00

200 00
60 00
42 00
125 00
75 00
75 00
30 00

4 Oxen, at $50 each, .

6 Yearlings, at $10 each,

7 Calves, at $6 each, .
2 Horses,

10 Pigs and two old Hogs,

1 Two-year old Colt,

1 Nursling Colt, .

All amounting to . . . • . . $1,067 00
One year's interest on this amount, is . . . 64 00

One year's interest on cost of tools, repairing the

same, and blacksmith's bills, by estimation, . 50 00

Annual amount paid for labor, .... 240 00

My own labor, annually, 150 00

My son's » " . . . . ^ . . 150 00

The labor in the iiouse is done by Mrs. Kendall,
with the assistance of a maid six months in the
year, all of which the committee estimate at . 112 50
Annual expenses of the farm, including interest on

stock and cost of farm, ..... 1,228 52
Tl'.e yearly produce is 5^ acres of Indian corn, yield-
ing 275 bushels, at 92 cents, .... 253 00

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

241

Three-fourths acre of barley, yielding 24 bushels,
at 75 cents per bushel, . . . . .
3| Acres of oats, yielding 200 bushels, at 50 cts,
1^ Acres of potatoes, do. 500 " 33

25 Rods of carrots, do. 100 « 25

60 Cart-loads pumpkins, at $1 50 per load,
100 Barrels of apples, at $1 each,
12 Barrels cider, at $1 per bbl., .
160 Bushels of apples, at 3 cents per bushe
75 Tons of hay, at $10 per ton, .
10 Tons average of hay, sold annually,
5|- Acres of corn stover, 5|- tons, at $5 per ton,
4J Acres straw, 4| tons, at $5 per ton,
6,000 lbs. cheese, at 8|- cents per lb.,

200 lbs. butter, at 25 " » . .

1,623 lbs. pork, at 8 " " . .

2,678 lbs. beef, at 4i cents, .

The average number of persons in Mr. Kendall's

family is six. The estimated value of the produce

of the farm consumed by them, annually, is

19 Veal calves sold for ....

8 Bushels white beans sold for

Amounting annually, to the sum of

Which, after deducting expenses, interest, &c

There remains an annual income of

$18 00

100 00

165 00

25 00

90 00

100 00

12 00

4 80

750 00

100 00

27 50

22 50

510 00

50 00

129 84

120 51

300 00

113 00

12 00

$2,903 15
1,228 52

$1,674 63

Mr. Kendall's stock of cattle are all of the Durham family,
are of good size, but not large for that breed. The twenty-
five cows which he milked the present year, are mostly young,
and gave, in the best of the season, 459.52 lbs. milk daily, or
19.38 lbs. each ; and made 52 lbs. cheese daily, or one lb. for
8.84 lbs. milk.

The annual produce of Mr. Kendall's farm amounts to
$17 48 the acre. The annual profits $10 08 the acre.

The committee next proceeded to examine the farm of Mr.
David Bacon. The farm lies about two miles easterly of
Barre Common, on the slope of two hills, divided by a valley
down which runs a small stream of water, supplying the farm
with that element. The farm is divided into 50 acres of pas-
31

242 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

ture, 24 acres of mowing, 19 of wood, and 10 of ploughing
land, and contains one hundred and three acres of land. Be-
side the farm, Mr. Bacon has one hundred acres of out land, a
portion of which is depastured by some of his stock in summer.

The soil of the westerly part of his farm, is a dark loam,
based upon a retentive subsoil, similar to Mr. Kendall's. The
soil of the easterly portion is lighter, less retentive of water, is
good for grain, but not so good for grass.

Mr. Bacon purchased his farm in the year 1845, and paid
for it, $3,015. The produce was then about one-half what it
now is. Mr. B. makes on his farm annually, 325 loads (30
bushels to the load) of manure, 40 loads of green, or long ma-
nure from the stable, and 285 loads, composted of one-third
stable manure, and two-thirds muck ; saw-dust, leaves, straw,
or shavings, either or all of which, he believes, answers a good
purpose when spread upon grass land, or ploughed into tillage
land. He has used gypsum, but derives no benefit from it.
Mr. Bacon puts upon his Indian corn land 36 loads of ma-
nure to the acre, 18 in the hill, and 18 spread broadcast and
ploughed in. Ploughs from seven to eight inches deep ; pays
little regard to potatoes, preferring carrots, as a more produc-
tive crop. He has 170 apple trees on his farm, 100 of them
ingrafted, and has other fruit trees, as peaches, pears, &c.
Has improved two acres of his land within three years, by re-
moving stones into walls, &c., at an expense of $20 the acre.
His cattle are Durhams, of fair size, but not so large as Mr.
Kendall's.

Five of Mr. Bacon's cows are three years old, and four two
years old. The nine, which he milked in June, gave, in the
best of the season, 172.08 quarts of milk daily, and made 19
lbs. of cheese daily, one lb. of cheese to 9.05 lbs. milk.

Mr. Bacon's farm and outland was valued by the assessors,

the present year, at . . . $3,450 00

The annual interest on which, is ... . $^07 00
The number and value of his stock, as estimated by
the committee, is, 8 cows, at $17 50, . $140 00

2 Oxen, 75 00

1 Two years old heifer, . . . . 17 50
7 Calves, 42 00

WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

243

3 Horses,

1 Colt,

1 Yearling,

5 Pigs and 3 old hogs.

Amounting to

$200 00
25 00
14 00
60 00

$573 50
One year's interest on the same, is .
Paid for labor, after deducting $54 50 for labor

done oft' the farm.
Annual value of Mr. Bacon's labor.
Annual value of Mrs. Bacon's and her daughter's

labor, chargeable to the farm,
5 Tons straw and poor hay, bought,
Interest, cost of tools, and blacksmith's bill, .

Amounting in all, to ..... .

The produce of the farm for the year 1852, was —
3 Acres of Indian corn, yielding 140 bushels, at
92 cents per bushel, ....

3 Acres of oats, yielding 160 bushels, at 50 cts

1 Acre of rye and oats, mixed, yielding 32 bush

els, at 67 cts, .....

1 Acre of rye, yielding 22 bushels, at 92 cts,
^ Acre of potatoes, yielding 65 bushels, 33 cts,
107 Loads of carrots yielding 690 bushels, 25 cts,

25 Tons upland, 5 tons meadow hay, .
Value of butter and cheese sold.
Value of pork sold, ......

Corn husks sold, for mattresses,

3 Acres of corn stalks, 2| tons, ^5 per ton, .
5|- Tons straw, at $5 per ton.

Value of produce consumed by five persons in the
family, at $1 each, per week,

Amounting to the sum of .
Deduct expenses and interest, .

There remains an annual income, of

$34 00

151 50
150 00

75 00
20 00
40 00

$677 91

182

172

275

190

120

250 00

,1,640 98
677 91

$963 07

The annual produce of Mr. Bacon's farm is $15 93 per
acre ; the annual profit, $9 35 per acre.

244 WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

Mr. Kendall has made more improvements on his farm within
the last three years than Mr. Bacon. His cows gave each,
less milk daily, but a less number of pounds of milk made a
pound of cheese than Mr. Bacon's.

The value of the products of Mr. Bacon's farm are less per
acre, and the profits are less than Mr. Kendall's. For econo-
my and good management Mr. Bacon deserves high commen-
dation ; but the economy and management of Mr. Kendall is
superior, and worthy of imitation, and evinces an active and
constant attention to the duties, and a quick and lively percep-
tion of the beauties of rural life.

The committee award to Mr. David Kendall, the society's
premium of $20, and to Mr. David Bacon, the society's pre-
mium of $10.

Respectfully submitted, by

John Brooks, ) ^ ,,, '^
T D I Committee.

Job Ranger, )

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 245

HAMPSHIRE, FRANKLIN AND HAMPDEN
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Farms.

The committee on farms report, that the following persons
entered their farms for premium, viz.: Moses Stebbins, of
South Deerfield ; Josiah Allis, Jr., of Whately ; Linus Green,
T. P. Huntington, and William P. Dickinson, of Hadlcy ; and
that the committee proceeded to view the farms thus entered,
in the month of June, and also in the month of September
last, agreeably to the instructions of the executive committee.

All of the above farms are located in the Connecticut Valley,
and four of them on or near its banks. The committee were
highly gratified with the general appearance of the farms,
modes of culture adopted, and methods of increasing the
quantity and quality of manures. All of them are so situated
as abundantly to compensate the eflbrts put forth for their im-
provement, and to become model farms. And here your com-
mittee beg leave to state their regret that no farms were
entered from the hill towns, on which valuable improvements
can be made, and have been made, which would favorably
compare with the more smooth and level lands of the valley.

Your committee are satisfied that the two cardinal points
in farming, and so often insisted upon and recommended,
are yet too much neglected by the great mass of our farmers,
viz. : the reduction of the number of acres improved, and the ac-
cumulation of larger quantities of manure. We have evidence
of the value of these points in the success which has attended
the cultivation of the farms presented for premiums ; they are
comparatively small, yet the amount of their products is large,
as will be seen by their several statements.

The farm of Mr. Linus Green is in very fine condition ; his
system of management is not often excelled. He understands

246 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

the value of deep ploughing, regular rotation of crops, and
makes large quantities of manure, personally superintends his
business, and is not afraid or ashamed daily to off coat, and at
it. He may be considered somewhat of a model farmer.

Mr. Moses Stebbins cultivates a small farm with much suc-
cess; his estimates show a great degree of j)roductiveness.
He obtains valuable manure from the deposits of Connecticut
River. Your committee, in ascertaining the amount of the
products of a farm deem actual weight and admeasurement
of much more value than mere estimates.

INIr. Huntington has a small farm, of great productiveness, a
portion of which is a light soil. He has greatly improved his
acres by a judicious system of underdraining, and possesses a
valuable source of improvement to his farm, of which he abun-
dantly avails himself, in the shape of a lot of muck. We
rejoice to find that Mr. Huntington is the principal laborer on
his own farm.

Mr. Allis showed ns his farm and buildings, which, under his
energetic management, bids fair to become one of the most
productive farms in that vicinity, and his buildings and their
appurtenances will soon be in a condition to answer all his
expectations. He has a mine of wealth which he duly appre-
ciates, and the fine condition of some parts of his farm, and
the heavy crops of this season, show the value of the black
mould of his bog meadow. He raised, this season, six acres
of tobacco, which in September last was a most luxuriant
crop, and in the opinion of the committee, will be of much
greater profit to the producer than to the consumer.

Mr. Dickinson has a farm, on which he has made extensive
and valuable improvements. A part of his lands are cold
and low, and were, a few years since, quite unproductive ; but
under his skilful management, with drains and manure, an
old, unsightly and bushy pasture, has become pleasant to the
eye, and productive to the owner. He showed the committee
a fine piece of corn raised on land of a lighter grade. .We
congratulate Mr. Dickinson on his judgment and forecast, as
exhibited in his preference of the quiet life of the farmer, to
the noise and confinement of the city, and the temptations
and uncertainties of mercantile life.

There are probably within the boundaries of this society,

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 247

many farms quite as productive as those viewed by your com-
mittee, that were not entered for premium, and the views of
this society in offering premiums on farms being prospective,
the committee do not feel justified in awarding at present, the
highest premium to either of the competitors, and would rec-
ommend the continuance of these offers for the next year.

Mr. Green, having received the highest premium from a
society receiving the bounty of the State, the committee do
not deem it proper to award him a premium at this time.

Mr. Allis and Mr. Dickinson, not having returned the re-
quired statement of the amount of the productions of their
farms, cannot claim an award.

Your committee recommend, as an act of encouragement,
that the third premium of $20, be awarded to T. P. Hunt-
ington, of Hadley.

All which is submitted.

Elisha Edwards, Chairman.
Northampton, Jan. 1, 1853.

Linus Greeti's Statement.

My farm, of one hundred acres, is in Hadley. In its man-
agement, I have always aimed at the most economical im-
provements. The quantity of produce may have been greater
in some former years; but, viewed with reference to the
manner and expense of cultivation, the yield of the present
year has been very abundant. The farm, in its general ap-
pearance and appendages, is in excellent order. It lies in one
body, and is all in cultivation. It contains 48 acres of excel-
lent pasture, 32 acres of line mowing, and 20 acres in tillage.
Two-thirds of the soil is clay, and the remainder is gravelly
and light. I have made it out of swampy fields, overgrown
with alders and brush, and of worn out, poor land, by twenty
years of hard labor. There is not half an acre that I have not
ploughed. Among the results of economical experiments, I
mention deep ploughing not less than eight to nine inches,
which I now practice. By systematic rotation of crops, my
farm improves annually in its productive qualities. I find it
profitable to compost all my manure with lime for top-dress-
ing ; to mix seed corn, and to mix grass seed. On moist land,

248 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

I mix a half bushel of redtop with one peck of herds-grass.
The labor has been performed this year by myself and two
boys, one of seventeen, and the other of fifteen years.

PRODUCTS.

65 Tons of hay, at $15,
4971^ Bushels corn, at 75 cents,

353
60
50
25

oats, at 50 "
rye, at 75 "
potatoes, at 33|- cents,
turnips, at 25 "
winter apples, at 33| cents.

150 Pounds of butter, at 16f "

150 " of cheese, at 7 «

375 Loads compost manure,

100 « barnyard "
Pasturage of 15 horned cattle, 26 weeks,

" 75 sheep, 26 «

Increase of sheep, . . . . .

Total,

. $975

373

. 176

* 6

375

100

. 150

100

. $2,421

EXPENSES.

1 00 per day,
75 "
50 «

00 per bushel,
50 «
75 «
50 «

225 Days, my own labor, at
135 " boy's «

208 " " «

Grass seed.
Seed corn, 1-|- bushels, at $

« oats, 16 «

« rye, 4 "

" potatoes 3 "
Compost manvire, 375 loads, at $1,
Barnyard " 100 " $1,
Interest on value of land, at $50 per acre
Taxes,

Total,

Net income,

Average profit, per acre,

. -$225

. 101

. 104

. , 375 00

. 100

360

57.

. $1,351

2,421 29

$1,070 04
10 70

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 249

T. P. Huntington's Statement.

Gentlemen, — My farm having been duly entered for a premi-
um, and having passed the inspection of your most honorable
body, it remains for me, in complying with the conditions of
the premium, to otfer for your further consideration the follow-
ing statement :

My farm consists of about 50 acres. Of these, 10 acres are
meadow land, including the grounds about the buildings ; 15
acres besides are considered good tillage land ; five acres of
wood on Mount Warner ; and the remaining 20 acres are
sandy ; 12 of which are occasionally cropped, and the remain-
der, being difficult of access, are left to nature.

I usually hoe of the 25 ac-res, about six, put in winter and
spring grain about four, and in grass 15. My corn averages
about 5d bushels per acre, broom corn about 700 lbs., oats 35
bushels, and grass one and a half tons.

I spend annually a considerable amount of labor and manure
in experimenting witli the sandy hill, which has robbed, to
some extent, other portions of the farm. I am now endeavor-
ing, with the help of muck, to get clover growing, and think I
shall succeed.

My main objects in farming, have been, not so much to ob-
tain extra crops, and realize great profits, as to improve the
general appearance of the farm, to make productive waste
places, and to save and make manure. Whether I have been
successful in either of these particulars, your committee have
full opportunity to judge, and on that account it is not neces-
sary here to go into details.

Ploughing.

This is the farmers' jubilee, and we feel more like being
merry than sedate, especially as we now have the presence of
those who cheer all occasions ; and we may congratulate our-
selves that we have passed beyond those days of incivility and
bad taste, when we used to assemble on similar occasions as
though we had no mothers, sisters, wives, or daughters, in the
community.

250 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

But the plough demands that we consider him who furrows
the land, without particularly alluding to those who disperse
the furrows from his brow. We will remark, however, that each
process is essentially improved by matches, and we are happy
to say that the good old fashion is not likely to be given up in
either case.

To show that trials of ploughs and ploughing matches have
improved the plough wc will mention a few facts.

Not many years since, nearly all the turf ploughing required
two pairs of oxen or horses, and at a ploughing match here
was seen such a team, with two 561b. weights fastened to the
plough to keep it in the ground; but now it is mostly per-
formed by one pair, with the same ease and much better.

This gain in draught is easily accounted for by referring to
experiments made a few years since, by a committee to award
$100 for the best plough presented from any part of the United
States. Of course, the various ploughs ofiered were consider-
ed the best kind, and care had been taken to put them in per-
fect order, and yet, an accurate test with the Dynamometer,
which weighed the draught of each plough, proved there was
a difference of 50 per cent., and that one pair of oxen would
as easily turn a furrow with one plough as two pairs of oxen
would turn the same furrow with the other plough. And
another advantage : the quality of turf ploughing was im-
proved in proportion to lightness of draught. In this particu-
lar we are fortunate, but there is doubt whether lightness of
draft in ploughs for stalk or stubble land is attainable. It is
of importance that the work should be performed in the best
manner, with the least power and cost.

The agricultural community now demand of our persevering
and scientific plough makers, to do for the stubble or stalk
land plough what they have already accomplished for the turf
plough. The stabble plough should imitate the gardener with
his spade, and throw the earth with force, to pulverize it.

A plough is wanted in this valley to turn under broom .corn
stalks in the fall. One constructed for this use was exhibited
two years since, at the same time of the ploughing match, and
attracted much attention, which interest is increasing, and the
plough makers are improving their ploughs for this purpose.

However science or practice may have induced deep plough-

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 251

ing ill other sections, it is little approved of here. The bad
efi'ect of ploughing turf land deeper than usual has been ob-
served this year on those pieces so ploughed last year at the
ploughing match.

The double plough has advantages which will be better ap-
preciated when it is more fully introduced. It pulverizes the
turf sod as though it were stalk or stubble land.

The subsoil plough has been little used with us, but there
is no doubt of its benefit. It can be used on land that is free
from large stones and roots to loosen the earth below the roots
of grass, without turning the sod or destroying the beautiful
English grass, which is so desirable.

This plough, in grass land, makes a cut through the sod
similar to a coulter, and leaves the turf raised some inches by
loosening the earth below its roots.

Premiums should be offered for narrow furrows, because the
power and worth of any form of plough is more fully tested as
the earth is more completely pulverized, and the ordinary small
team of a farm will work them faster and easier. And if a
small one will turn a deep and narrow furrow, we may be
sure the same form, in a large size plough, will, with greater
certainty, turn an equal depth and a wider furrow.

Cast iron ploughs have been objected to on account of their
weight, but we need have no fear on that score, if we consider
how much easier the cast iron sled shoe passes over bare ground
than wrought iron or steel.

The steam plough is working successfully in England,
ploughing land for 62 cents per acre, which in the ordinary
way costs $2. We may soon see the iron horse turning fur-
rows in this valley, and with his dozen ploughs, each throwing
its stream of earth, pulverized and spread upon the land, as the
snow-plough sifts its fleecy flakes when driven by the steam
engine.

Your committee found not a little difficulty in awarding
premiums, many lots being equally well ploughed for cultiva-
tion. We were obliged, therefore, in forming our decision, to
notice the ploughman's skill at setting in and ending the fur-
rows, as also the clearing the last furrow.

The ploughing was well done ; several lots would not suffer
by comparison with any match in the United States.

252 HAMPS., FRANK. & IIAMPD. SOCIETY.

Two improved double ploughs, from the manufactory of
Ruggles, Nourse & Mason, of Worcester, attracted attention,
not only for novelty, but by their peculiar power of pulverizing
the grass sod, and by uniting in one the best plough for turf
and stubble land.

PREMIUMS.

Twelve horse teams, seven ox teams, and three teams with
double ploughs, were entered for premiums.

On lots plovghed with horses.

1. Giles E. Smith, Hadley,

2. William Strong, Northampton,

3. Joseph B. Parsons, "

4. D. W. Clark, "

5. Enos Clark, Jr., "

6. Ebenezer Strong, "

7. George Dickinson, Hadley, .

8. Phinehas Bridgman, Belchertown,

Plovghed ivith oxen.

1. Edmund Smith, Hadley,

2. Samuel L. Parsons, Northampton,

3. William Clark, "

4. Henry Strong, 2cl, "

Double ploughs.

1. D. Munroe Clapp, Northampton, .

2. Elisha Strong, "

Henry Shepherd, Chairman.

Horses.

The horse may justly be considered one of the noblest ani-
mals in creation, and your committee are gratified in noticing
the increased interest which is felt among farmers in this vicin-
ity in improving our stock of horses.

There is no enterprise, if rightly engaged in, to which the
farmer or breeder may look with a greater confidence of suc-
cess and profit than this.

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 253

Upon the introduction of railroads into our country, the be-
lief was cherished by many that the demand for horses would
be so materially lessened, that the effect would be to lower the
price. But what is the result? The number of horses in
Massachusetts has increased from 60,000, in 1840, to 75,000, in
1850, while the price has been constantly increasing.

There is no more difficulty or uncertainty in breeding a fine
horse than in raising a crop of corn, when the same consistent
principles are adopted. It is true both may fail, but the former
no more likely to than the latter.

In the first place, to breed a fine colt, or a horse, the sire
must possess four things, at least, in the fullest perfection —
form, motion, carriage, and constitution. These are absolutely
indispensable, but can never be found to much extent in an
overgrown animal, and at the same time we would avoid, as a
general thing, a pony stallion. Another thing is also essential
in selecting your stock horses. A sire should never inherit
any bad blood from his ancestors, for he will be more likely to
sire stock like his degenerated kindred than like himself, and
for this reason too much care cannot be exercised in the selec-
tion of your sires.

There should also be great care in the selection of your
breeding mares, and when right views are entertained upon
this subject, it will not be considered unprofitable, or out of
place, to select the best mares we have for this purpose, and
experience will fully demonstrate that much, very much, de-
pends upon this.

If we wish to raise good horses we must adopt fundamental
principles, as laid down in nature's laws, which will always
prove true in practice, and when this is done we shall not be
behind our neighbors in New York and Vermont, who have
been eminently successful in this business, and are now reap-
ing the reward of their labors.

The idea that it makes but little difference what kind of
treatment a colt receives the first winter, is also very erroneous.
Great care and attention is necessary that your colts be kept
growing and thrifty. Your committee the last year referred to
the practice of winter hardening, as it is sometimes called, than
which nothing can be more detrimental. Those who have had
the most experience have found that inattention the first win-

254 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

ter seriously affects the growth of their colts. It may take the
whole of the next season to recover what is lost by w^ant of
care the first winter. Although we would not advise a close
stable for colts, still they should have a warm shelter from
winds and storms.

The want of attention in all these particulars is one great
reason why our farmers are not more amply remunerated for
the labor and expense attending this enterprise. When the
theory of raising horses is rightly understood," we shall have
horses, which for size, speed, symmetry of form, and beauty of
action, cannot be excelled, and we shall no longer hear the cry
that it is unprofitable business to raise colts.

Your committee regret so few entries of stallions, and that
no more competition has been manifested — although aware
that the rules of the society exclude all who have been hereto-
fore awarded the first premium ; and we would suggest, that
perhaps, some new arrangement, in this respect, might be
adopted hereafter, which would materially add to the interest
of such an occasion, and stimulate to a greater degree of emu-
lation. At any rate it is very desirable that all who have su-
perior stock horses should present them for exhibition, even if
they come under the restriction above named.

Under the present rule it may sometimes occur that horses
of little merit may be awarded the first premium, and more
likely to be so when there are but few competitors.

The whole number of entries in this department were sixty-
seven, and in the opinion of your committee the exhibition of
geldings far exceeded that of former years.

It was thought best by the chairmen of the several commit-
tees that a general report should be made on this subject, and
the following premiums are recommended as the result of our
separate examinations. All which is respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

H. A. Long LEY.

PREMIUMS.

Stallions.

1. Benjamin Baggs, Ludlow, ..... $10 00

2. Alfred H. Hill, Belchertown, o 00

3. D. Gilbert, Worthington, 3 00

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 255

Breeding Mares.

1. Samuel C. Pomeroy, Southampton,

2. Edmund Smith, South Hadley,

3. C. May, Conway, ....

^5 00
3 00
2 00

H. Long LEY, Chairman.

Carriage Horses.

1. Ebenezer Strong, Northampton, . . . . ^6 00

2. J. D. Brown, Hatfield, 5 00

3. Ebenezer Strong, Northampton, . . . . 4 00
H. W. Clark, of Northampton, presented a fine pair of car-
riage horses, but not in season for the committee to examine
them.

Horses for Draft.

1. David Moseley, Westfield, $6 00

2. Ebenezer Strong, Northampton, . . . . 5 00

3. Cyrus M. Parsons, Worthington, . . . . 4 00

S. C. Pomeroy, Chairman.

Geldings.

1. Ebenezer Strong, Northampton, . . . . $5 00

2. Levi Graves, Hatfield, 4 00

3. David Aiken, Greenfield, 3 00

4. Newman Bartlett, Williamsburgh, . . . 2 00

5. Joseph I. West, Northampton, . . . . 1 00
The committee also recommend a gratuity of two dollars to

John D. Brown, of Hatfield, and of one dollar to Edmund
Smith, of Hadley.

Three Years Old Colts.

1. Franklin R. Joy, Cummington,

2. O. Moore, Montgomery,

3. Edward A. Clark, Easthampton, .

Tivo Years Old Colts.

1. Henry Moody, South Hadley,

2. Julius F. Clark, Easthampton,

3. Jonathan Brewster, Worthington, .

$4 00
3 00
2 00

$3 00
2 00
1 00

256 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

One Year Old Colts.

1. Mala Cowles, Belchertown, $2 00

2. Chester Phelps, Northampton, . . . . 1 00
The committee also recommend a gratuity of two dollars to

Josiah Brown, of Hatfield.

JosiAH Brown, Chairman.

Manures.

William P. Dickinson^ s Statement.

In the fall of 1851, I ploughed a field of nine acres, which
had been pastured for ten years, and sent a sample of it to
Professor Norton for analyzation : he found it very deficient in
lime, sulphuric acid, and chlorine, and advised an application
of oyster-shell lime, plaster and salt. I made a mixture of ten
bushels of lime, two and a half of plaster, and half a bushel
of salt for each acre, and put a handful in the hill at the time
of planting. I left two and three rows in a place in different
parts of the field to see the result. Through the early part of
the season, these rows could be distinguished-from the others
thirty rods from the field, by their yellow appearance, and less
vigorous growth. This difference continued throughout the
season, and at the time of harvesting, the difference in favor
of the rows which were limed, was by good judges said to be
one-third.

I also put some of the lime upon grass, and the spot can
easily be selected by its fresh green appearance, compared
with that surrounding it. The lime cost 12| cents a bushel,
at Northampton. The whole expense per acre could not have
exceeded $2.

I have just finished husking one acre, which yielded 126
bushels of ears, with only eight loads of compost manure o;i it.

Hadley, Oct. 27, 1852.

A gratuity of ^5 was awarded.

[The above is regarded as a very interesting and successful
experiment, and has attracted the attention of many farmers

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 257

in the neighborhood, by whom it will probably be tried the
coming season.]

Carrot Crop.

William P. Dickinson's Statement.

The crop of carrots which I offer for yom* inspection, was
grown upon one-quarter of an acre of ground. The land had
a crop of carrots upon it last year, and was in good condition.
About the middle of May I plowed it eight inches deep, then
spread six loads of manure, and harrowed it; then, with a
small plough ridged it up, and sowed a quarter of a pound of
seed with a machine, upon the top of the ridges; the rows
were eighteen inches apart, and the plants from three to four
inches : they were harvested the last of October.

EXPENSES.

Ploughing and harrowing, $1 00

Seed and sowing, ....... 50

Manure and weeding, 12 00

Harvesting, ........ 4 00

Total, $17 50

PRODUCE.

182 Bushels, (50 lbs. to a bushel,) at 331 cents per

bushel, $60 67

Tops, 2 00

Total, $62 67

Expenses, 17 50

Profit, $45 17

The whole weight was 9,100 lbs.

Hadley, Oct. 27, 1852.

A premium of $6 was allowed.
33

258 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

Rye Crop.

T. P. Hunting-ton's Statement.

The piece of land upon which a crop of rye has been raised
by me the past season, and which is entered for a premi-
um, contains one acre and 125 rods. It had been under the
plough three seasons previous to this. The first year it was
planted to corn, the next two to broomcorn. The soil is a
clay loam, retentive of moisture, and of course inclined to
heave in frosty weather. I was advised not to attempt the
raising of a crop of rye, lest it should become winter killed.
Wishing, however, to try the experiment, and with as little
risk as possible, I adopted the following plan. As soon as the
broomcorn was cut, the stalks were carefully ploughed in. A
bushel of seed per acre was sown, and the ground was then
rolled and thoroughly harrowed. My theory was, that the
cornstalks would absorb the surplus water, so as to act as
underdrains through the winter and spring. The result an-
swered my expectations, as I am not aware that the crop was
in the least injured by frost.

Some parts of the field were lodged, so that the berry was
not as full as it would otherwise have been.

I would observe also, that an acre might have been selected
on which the yield might have been considerably larger than
it was on the whole lot.

The account stands as follows :

DEBIT.

To plowing,

" Sowing,

" Two bushels of rye, .

" Rolling and harrowing,

" Cutting, binding and stacking grain,

" Carting grain, ....

" Threshing do., ....

Total,

$18 42

HAMPS., FRANK. 6c HAMPD. SOCIETY. 259

CREDIT.

By 58 bushels rye, at five shillings, .... ^48 33
" 2 tons of straw, at $8, 16 00

Total, $64 33

18 42

Profit, |45 91

Hadley, Dec. 30, 1852.

A premium of $5 was awarded.

Corn Crop.

Moses C. Porter^s Statement.

The following is a statement respecting one acre of Indian
corn, raised by me in the summer of 1852.

The land it was raised upon had been kept for a cow pas-
ture for some years past, and was, when ploughed, good Eng-
lish turf. I ploughed the land on the 11th of May, rolled and
harrowed it well, put the manure in the holes, which were
three feet and a half apart, and the rows were three feet apart.
I put plaster of Paris upon the manure before planting, and
applied the ashes upon the hill after the first hoeing. The
corn was hoed four times ; the horse and harrow were used,
the first three times, and the fourth time it was hoed plain.
The seed used was the eight-rowed corn. The corn was cut
up at the roots and stacked until dry enough to put into the
barn. The value of the labor performed was $21. The value
of the manure, which consisted of five loads of green horse
manure, eight bushels of ashes, and one bushel of plaster of
Paris, was $9 50. The produce was 112^^ bushels of shelled
corn, and 3|^ tons of fodder. The corn was measured by
husking it in a two-bushel basket, and then shelling one basket,
and multiplying the amount by the number of baskets.

Hatfield, Oct. 29, 1852.

A premium of $10 was awarded. ,

260 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

Stock.

Your committee feel exceedingly embarrassed in making out
their report, from the fact that there were so few entries of
each kind of animals on exhibition. Two reasons, in our
opinion, obtain to render the show so meagre, viz.: the nu-
merous fairs in the old county of Hampshire — there being one
in almost every town of much magnitude, — and the extreme
drought in the early part of the summer, from which the pas-
tures have not fully recovered. There were no entries of fat
cattle, or of teams, which rendered the show apparently unin-
teresting. In some of the departments the animals were never
more numerous, or of superior quality. Although no fat cattle
were exhibited, your committee do not believe old Hampshire
county will be deprived of excellent beef the coming winter,
neither do we believe their Brighton customers will fall short
of their wonted quantity of prime beef. Although no teams
were entered for premiums, we know the patient ox is yet the
motive power for the farmer, and no substitute can supply the
place of that animal.

Your committee do not feel that there is any lack of interest
or encouragement to grow the most valuable breeds of stock-
Docility and symmetry, and endurance, are qualities the farmer
has an eye to as he reckons his profits.

Of working oxen there were but ten entries, and the animals
were generally of an inferior quality ; yet there were a few
noble exceptions. The simple fact that there are so many
shows on all sides of us, of itself carried full conviction of the
increased interest in these exhibitions. We feel assured of
growing interest, and confidently expect, if the season be
favorable another year, to see more than our usual number of
teams and fat cattle.

The show of steers — there being only ten entries — was much
less than usual, and we can only account for it, from the fact
that there is so short a crop of hay that the farmers have been
obliged to turn everything for beef that has become fit for
market.

Of cows and heifers in milch there was a fair show. Of
heifers there were eleven entries, all of such quality as to give
credit to the exhibition.

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 261

The show of bulls was never superior, in quality or number.
The different breeds on exhibition were the Durham, the
Devon, the Hereford, and the Ayrshire. These beautiful and
superior breeds show that the farmers are awake to their inter-
ests, and will be slow to allow their stock to degenerate, either
in beauty or profit. Their docility and symmetry were espe-
cially marked, which always merits and receives approbation
in such animals.

Of miscellaneous stock there were only four entries, — two
pair of twins, large and nice, and seven yearlings, offered by
Benjamin Coit, of Norwich, which reflect much credit upon
their breeder. Under this class a cow, offered by T. G. Hunt-
ington, of Hadley, merited, as it received, a premium of ^3.

In respect to sheep, your committee regret that no more at-
tention is paid to the growth of this timid yet profitable ani-
mal, as no stock will better enable the farmer to educate his
children or pay his taxes. Farms that are often taken up for
rotation of crops are peculiarly adapted to this animal. Some
of the specimens exhibited were of superior quality ; others,
especially adapted by their heavy fleeces for course fabrics, and
for the shambles, may be a source of profit to the farmer, par-
ticularly the Cotswold breed. They are said to be very quiet
in their habits, which induces fatness, and we see not why
they are not the animal for the farmer.

In reference to swine, your committee are happy to say, that
this exhibition exceeded that of all former fairs. There were
ten entries, and all of the first class — trim, having small bones
and small ears, and not of the Albany breed, with ears like
corn fans, and built for racers, but having short noses and
short limbs, looking for all the world the very personification
of lazy, fat porkers.

Finally, we would say to the farmers of this society, be
watchful in the improvement of the breeds of your stock, so
that it shall become a source of profit to yourselves, and to the
generations who shall succeed you. This society can and
ought to exhibit as fair specimens as can be found in this
country ; and if there be no abatement in your endeavors to
improve your stock, you will go on as you have done, improv-
ing and profiting yourselves and your neighbors on all sides of
you. Go on and prosper.

262 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

PREMIUMS.

Working Oxen — Ten entries.

1. Edward Smith, South Hadley,

2. Aretus Pomeroy, Southampton,
8. James M. Chapman, Westhampton,

4. Edmund Smith, South Hadley, .

5. Samuel L. Parsons, Northampton,

6. L. N. Granger, Hadley,

7. Henry Strong, 2d, Northampton, .

Three Years Old Steers.

1. Hervey Judd, South Hadley,

2. Washington Stevens, Norwich,

3. George Dickinson, Hadley, .
A gratuity of $1 to Edmund Smith, of Hadley,

recommended.

Ttco Years Old Steers.

1. Chester Gray, Hadley,

2. Parsons West, Hadley, .....

Cuius.

1. Samuel Bartlett, Hatfield, ....

2. Orrin R. Moore, Southampton,

3. Dr. Samuel A. Fisk, Northampton,

4. Silas B. Sheldon, Southampton, .

Heifers.

1. Justin Thayer, Northampton,

2. Orrin R. Moore, Southampton,

3. J. Smith Parsons, Northampton, .

4. T. G. Huntington, Hadley, ....

Yearling Heifers.

1. J. C. Adams, Norwich,

2. Hervey Judd, South Hadley,

B^dls.

1. Paoli Lathrop, South Hadley,

2. Jotham A. Clark, Granby, ....

3. Dexter Allis, Hatfield,

4. Samuel Tinker, Chesterfield,

3 00

2 00

4 00

2 00

4 00

8 00

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 263

The committee recommend a gratuity of $2 each to George
W. King, of Chesterfield, and Oliver Williams, of Sunderland.

Miscellaneous Stock.

Samuel Pitcher, Chesterfield, $2 00

Seth Lathrop, South Hadley, 2 00

Benjamin Coit, Norwich, 2 00

T. P. Huntington, Hadley, 3 00

Sivine — Boars,

1, James Morton, Hatfield, 4 00

2. T. P. Huntington, Hadley, 2 00

Soivs and Pigs.

1. T. P. Huntington, Hadley, . . . . . 5 00

2. Hubbard Graves, Sunderland, . . . . 3 00

3. William Clark, Jr., Northampton, . . . . 2 00

Sheep.

1. C. N. Montague, South Hadley, . . . . 4 00

2. Benjamin Coit, Norwich, 2 00

A gratuity of $2 for a Cotswold buck, to Moses Montague,

of South Hadley.

N. liYMAN Strong, Chairman.

Poultry.

The committee on poultry beg leave to submit the following
report: *****

Four important requisites to success in managing fowls, are,
that they have ample space, thorough ventilation, perfect
cleanliness, and a sufficiency of good food. They probably
never do so well closely confined, as when allowed an exten-
sive range. Too many individuals should not be kept together.
Thirty are as many as will thrive, and a less number would be
better. Food should be kept constantly before them. They
will not eat so much, and yet keep in better condition, than
when fed at intervals. Corn appears to be their favorite arti-
cle of diet. A saving is made by boiling it, or by using meal
mixed with potatoes, or some other vegetable, and given warm.

264 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

This is very desirable in cold weather. Vegetables and fresh
meat are necessary for health, and are highly conducive to the
production of eggs. It is absolutely necessary to have some
proper material within their reach of which to make the shell,
such as old mortar, pounded oyster shells, burnt bones and
coarse gravel.

In selecting the kind of fowls to be kept, the particular ob-
ject to be attained will somewhat vary the choice. If the
flesh be sought, some of the larger kinds, or perhaps a cross
of the larger and smaller, will best answer. But it is believed,
that at the same cost of keeping, the smaller breeds will pro-
duce the greater weight of eggs.

All hens will lay well if properly cared for ; but there are
some breeds which have a particular inclination to do so.
Among these stand foremost the Bolton Greys, Poland, and
Spangled Hamburgs, and even the common barnyard fowl,
will not suffer in comparison with many of her more showy
competitors. Every door yard has a supply of the latter,
which if judiciously managed, can be brought into a profita-
ble way with little expense, thus avoiding the necessity of
paying the extravagant sums demanded for some of the new
varieties.

The display of poultry this year was equal if not superior to
that of any previous exhibition. The variety was greater,
and there were two or three breeds represented for the first
time. The reputation which the Bolton Grays and Spangled
Hamburgs possess, for laying properties, would seem to de-
mand for them more attention in future. The specimens of
turkeys and ducks were very fine, causing some embarrassment
in the selection of those most worthy of premiums.

The whole number of entries was fifty-nine.

Premiums were awarded to the following persons. There
was only one entry of Chittagongs, consisting of two pairs.
To the owner of these, Moses White, of Hadley, was
awarded the first premium of 2$ ; also the second premium
of $1.

There were but two entries of Cochin Chinas, for these,
Benjamin Barrett, of Northampton, received the first premium
of $2 ; also the second premium of $1.

White Shanghaes, — J. W. Wilson, of Northampton, receiv-

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 265

ed the first premium of $2 ; Red Shanghaes, — Moses White
of Hadley, the second premium, $1.

Dorkings, — H. Bartholomew, of Northampton, first premi-
um, $2 ; Master Frederic W. Arnold, of Northampton, second
premium, $1.

Polands, (Golden Polands) — Walter W. Pease, of North-
ampton, first premium, $2 ; Mrs. Dr. Woodward, of Northamp-
ton, second premium, ^1.

Common and mixed stock, — Charles W. Lyman, of North-
ampton, first premium, $2; Edward B. Barrett, Northampton,
second premium, $1.

Bantams, (Seabright) — F. Bester, of Chesterfield, first pre-
mium, $2 ; (common) Mrs. Dr. Woodward, second premium,
$1.

Turkeys, — Moses White, of Hadley, first premium, ^2 ; Ed-
ward Parsons, of Northampton, second premium, $1.

Ducks, — F. W. Clark, of Northampton, first premium, $2 ;
Thomas Jewett, of Northampton, second premium, $1.

Doves, — Master F. W. Clark, of Northampton, the premi-
um, $1.

[Sundry gratuities were also awarded.]

F. BoNNEY, Chairman.

Bread, Butter, and Cheese.

The committee on bread, butter, and cheese, respectfully
submit the following report : — *****

It may be worth while to suggest to bread makers, that they
ought to aim at a greater variety in the kinds of bread. If any
body thinks that all men should agree in small things as in
great, we advise him to read the half hundred statements of
processes which were pinned to as many loaves, on exhibition
in the hall. And yet they all come to pretty much the same
result. Family bread is one thing — all our loaves are mainly
of one type, and we think that the staff of life would be more
interesting and less likely to be put aside for the broken reed
of rich cake, if it were varied a little, though it were only in
form. A roll, a twist, anything would be some relief from the
34

266 HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY.

unchanging loaf. Soda biscuits, we admit, are unexception-
able ; but then, one docs grow tired of them in the course of a
long winter, and a trip to the French baker's or somewhere
else, might be of service. The times have changed since
" Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah and said, make
ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make
cakes upon the hearth." Our bread making, as well as other
things, should be various and progressive.

We may add, that although four premiums were offered for
four different sorts of bread, one variety was represented only
by one, and another only by two specimens. Those who are
mighty in cakes and pies, which profit little, should turn their
strength in this direction.

Your committee found the usual difficulty in deciding be-
tween the various loaves of bread, and they hope that in what
is so plainly a matter of taate, great charity will be shown to
their decisions. Scarcely a loaf was on exhibition which
would not have satisfied any reasonable person.

The samples of butter were, for the most part, of a very
superior quality, well flavored, and thoroughly worked. The
specimens of cheese, though not numerous, were highly satis-
factory.

Besides an entry, unacccompanied by any statement, there
was but one sample of " the best produce of butter on any
farm within the county, for four months, from the 20th of May
to the 20th of September, sample to be not less than twenty
pounds, with a full account of the manner of feeding the cows,
and the management of the milk and butter." Fortunately,
this was of a superior quality.

The following is the record of

PREMIUMS.

Butter — Eighteen entries.

1. Edward Clapp, 2d, Northampton, . . . . $4 00

2. Simeon Clark, Amherst, '8 00

3. "Willard Judd, South Hadley, . . . . 2 00

4. Mrs. J. B. Graves, Northampton, . . . . 1 00

Cheese — Four entries.
1. William Tilton, Goshen, 4 00

HAMPS., FRANK. & HAMPD. SOCIETY. 267

2. West Tilton, Goshen, |3 00

3. William H. Bates, Worthington, . . . . 2 00

Bread — Fifty-seven entries.

Best wheat bread, Mrs. Chas. D. Hale, Northampton, 2 00
Second best, Mrs. O'Brien, Northampton, . . . 1 00
Gratuity to Mrs. William Clark, Jr., Northampton, . 1 00
Best rye and Indian, (the only entry,) Georgiana M.

Wright, Northampton, 2 00

Best rye bread, (gratuity,) Mrs. Samuel Williams,

Northampton, . . . . . . . 2 00

Best unbolted wheat, Mrs. Edward Parsons, North-
ampton, ......... 2 00

Best produce of butter for four, months, T. P. Hunt-
ington, Hadley, .......

5 00

RuFus Ellis, Chairman.

268

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

HAMPDEN COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Grain Crops — wheat.

Amos M. CarletorCs Statement.

The crop of wheat, which I offer for premium, was raised
on one acre of land, the soil being a sandy loam. The pre-
ceding crop was corn and potatoes. Five cords of barnyard
manure were spread, before planting, upon the land, which was
ploughed eight inches deep. After the corn and potatoes were
harvested, the land was again ploughed and harrowed before
sowing. One bushel and twelve quarts of wheat were sowed,
and the ground harrowed twice more.

The above crop, when threshed, yielded thirty-two bushels,
weighing sixty-one pounds per bushel, and sold at one dollar

fifty cents per bushel, amounting to
One and one-half ton straw,

Expenses

for ploughing and harrowing,

$3 00

" seed, . . . . .

2 75

" threshing and cleaning, .

3 00

" marketing, . . . .

1 50

" rent of land, . . . .

10 00

" harvesting, . . . .

3 00

S48 00
9 00

S57 00

Net gain, .

$23 25

$33 75

The directors aw^ard to Amos M. Carleton, of Chicopee
Falls, the first premium, of $5.

[Allow one bushel extra as standard requirement, at 60 lbs.
per bushel, making 33 bushels, at a cost of 70|^ cents per bushel.]

HAMPDEN SOCIETY. 269

CORN.

W. Cooletjs Statement.

The corn crop which I offer for premium was raised on one
acre and a half of land, which had been in grass for five years,
and been mowed annually without receiving any manure.
Last spring it was ploughed, and about five cords of compost
manure spread upon it to the acre. The land was then har-
rowed and planted in hills, three feet apart each way; the
cultivator was used at the first and second hoeing and a light
plough for the third. The corn was ashed in the hill. I have
harvested 132 bushels of corn, equal to 88 bushels to the acre.

Value of the crop, at 90 cents per bushel, $118 80
Three tons of fodder,

Expenses for ploughing and harrowing,
" " manure, seed, and planting,

" " hoeing, ....

" " harvesting and husking,

" " interest on land, .

Net gain, ....... $85 30

"Weighs 45i lbs. to the bushel ears.
Gratuity, $3.

J. C. Parsons^s Statement.

Gentlemen, — I wish to offer for premium the corn which I
have raised the past season. The first lot contained one and
a half acre. The land had been in grass and mowed for the
last four years ; it had annually received a top-dressing of
compost, and produced about two tons of hay to the acre.
There was spread upon this lot, about the first of May last,
fifteen cords of stable manure, which was ploughed under. It
was also well manured in the hill, with compost, and planted
in hills three and a half feet apart each way. It was cultivated
and hoed three times, and after the first hoeing it received a
top-dressing of ashes, plaster and hen manure. It was cut up
and stooked in the field. There were two rows of potatoes
planted upon each end of the lot. The yield was 249 bushels

$139

• $4

f~J\J

$99

5 00

5 60

270 HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

of ears, equal to 124| bushels of shelled corn, or 83 bushels to
the acre. Also, 15 bushels of potatoes on the one and a half
acre.

I estimate the value of the crop and the expenses of cultiva-
tion, as follows : —

124-|- bushels corn, at 80 cents, .
15 " potatoes, at 40 cents.
Corn stalks, ......

Pumpkins, .......

Expenses of 15 cords manure, .

" " compost, ....

" " ashes, plaster and hen manure,

" " cultivating and harvesting, .

" " interest on land, .

82 00

Net profit, $53 60

[Corn cost 44 4-10 per bushel]

I would also offer for the second premium, the balance of
my corn crop, which was raised upon seven acres. This land
had been in grass for three years. It was manured with eight
cords to the acre, and was cultivated in the same way as the
first piece, with the exception that four acres was only hoed
twice. The yield was 980 bushels of ears, equal to 490 bushels
of shelled corn, or 70 bushels to the acre. Potatoes were also
planted upon the ends of this lot, and the yield was 42 bushels.
I think four acres of this lot would have yielded over 80
bushels to the acre; the balance of the lot was much injured
by crows. The crop of pumpkins, however, was much larger
upon this part of the field.

I estimate the value of crop and cost, as follows : —

490 bushels corn, at 80 cents,
42 " potatoes, at 40 cents.
Corn stalks, ....
Pumpkins,

Expenses of 56 cords manure, $3,
" " compost.

$392

►

$528

$168

20 00

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

271

Expenses of ashes, plaster and hen manure, $13 00
" " cultivating and harvesting, . 90 00

« « rent of land, . . . . 42 00

Net profit.

$333 00
$195 80

I would add that all the manure, with the exception of
plaster, was made upon the farm, and that there has been no
"guess work" at the quantity of land or the yield of corn.
My farm has been accurately surveyed and divided into lots,
and the corn all measured by Mr. William Kelly.

Agawam, Nov. 26, 1852.

Corn cost 40 4-100 per bushel.
Gratuity, $3.

OATS.

Phineas Stedman's Statement.

The crop of oats which I offer for premium, was raised upon
1-| acre of land, that had been pastured for several years previ-
ous to the spring of 1850, when it was ploughed, manured
lightly, and planted with corn. In the spring of 1851 it was
again manured and sowed with carrots. In the spring of 1852,
oats were sowed, applying 3| bushels per acre. The above
crop, when harvested, yielded 142 bushels, weighing 31 lbs.
per bushel, giving 81 bushels, 4|- quarts per acre, or, by weight,
of 30 lbs. per bushel, 83| bushels.

Value of crop, at 50 cents per bushel,
" straw, ....

Expenses for ploughing,
» " seed,

" " sowing and harrowing,
" " harvesting,
" " threshing,
" " rent of land.

. .$71

. 22

. . $2

. 3

. 2

. 6

. 7

. 15

$93 00

35 54

Net gain.

$57 46

272

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

The directors award to Phineas Stedman, of Chicopee, the
first premium, of $4.

Walter Coolejfs Statement.

I offer for premium a crop of oats, which was raised on If
acre of land. One year ago last spring I spread on, and plough-
ed in, nine cords of yard manure, and planted it with corn.
Last spring, in April, I ploughed it once and sowed six bush-
els of oats, and harrowed them in. The product was 140
bushels, equal to 80 bushels per acre.

By value of crop, at 50 cents,

" " straw.

DR.

For Ploughing,
" Sowing and harrowing, .
" Six bushels oats for seed,
" Harvesting, .
" Threshing and cleaning,
" Land rent,

Net gain,

West Springfield, Nov. 30, 1852.
Awarded the second premium, of $2.

$70

15 00

S94 00

32 80

$61 20

Root Crop.

J. P. Dickinson's Statement. ^

The crop of turnips which I offer for premium, was raised
on 58 rods of ground. It was sowed with peas in the spripg,
at the same time I spread on four cords of manure. The first
of August I sowed it with one-half pound of long smooth tur-
nip seed, in drills 15 inches apart; they were hoed three times,
and thinned to suitable distances. The 20th of November I
gathered 298 bushels from the 58 rods.

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

273

CREDIT.

By value of the crop, at 15 cents, .... $44 70

DEBIT.

To q'rter of manure, applied on previous crop, $3 00

" Ploughing, (which was very deep,) , . 50

" half pound seed, 25

« Sowing, 1 00

" Hoeing and weeding, . . . . 5 00

" Harvesting, 3 00

« Use of land, 3 00

Net gain, ....
Springfield, Nov. 80th, 1852.

Awarded first premium, of $2.

15 75

$28 95

Milch Cows.

The report on milch cows, made to the directors of the
Hampden County Agricultural Society, at their late fair, with
the statements of exhibitors accompanying it, has been revised,
and its important contents presented in the following abstract :

The committee to award premiums were J. W. Crooks, Ed-
win H. Ball, and Russell Ely.

The first premium, for five years old and upwards, was given
to Carlton Thayer, of Chicopee. Mr. Thayer does not state
the age of the cow, nor the manner of keeping her. In fact,
the only inquiries of the society answered are as to the quan-
tity of milk, which he states to have been " 56 lbs. per day for
the three last weeks of June, and 42 lbs. per day for the three
last weeks in September." The cow calved the 27th day of
last April.

The second and third premiums were given to Colonel D.

Merrick, of West Springfield. Both cows are of the Ayrshire

breed. One calved on the 20th of May, and the other in the

first week of July. The first cow gave, from the 1st to the

274 HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

20th of June, on an average, 49 lbs. of milk daily ; from the
1st to the 20th of September, 36 lbs. per day. This cow has
had a calf every year since she was t\vo years old. In two of
these years she was milked up to her calving every day; and
the least she gave was five quarts. She was pastured only.
The other cow gave,' on an average, through July, 48 lbs.; in
September, her average was 40 lbs. ; her feed the same as the
other cow.

Other particulars required by the society are not given.

The fourth and fifth premiums were awarded to Hervey
Hills, of Springfield. The first is a mixture — Durham and
native, six years old ; calved April 16th. She averaged, for
the ten days in June, a little over 45 lbs. of milk ; and, during
the same period in September, about 34|: lbs. daily. Her feed
has been grass only : her milk was sold for four and five cents
per quart ; owned by Mr. Hills three years. The other cow is
a Durham, eleven years old; calved 15th of March. She
averaged, for the ten days in June, about 46^ lbs. of milk ; and
for the same period in July, about 31|^ lbs. daily. Her feed
and sale of milk, same as the other ; owned by Mr. Hills five
years.

The first premium on heifers from two to five years old, was
awarded to Hervey Hills, for a three year old Durham ; calved
May 16th. For the ten days in June she averaged 39 lbs. of
milk. Her food has been grass only ; milk sold for four and
five cents a quart ; owned by Mr. Hills from a calf.

The second premium was awarded to Nathaniel Howard, of
Springfield ; a native ; two years and four months old ; entered
1st day of May. For the ten days in June she gave ten quarts
of milk per day ; and for the ten in September, seven quarts
per day. She has been kept in the barn, had some grass and
some hay, and been fed three times a day with wheat shorts
mixed with the slops of the house. Six quarts of milk have
been sold daily at four cents ; always owned by Mr. Howard.

The third premium was awarded to Tyler Childs, of Spring-
field.

A premium was awarded to J. Homer Demond, of Spring-
field, for a herd of thirteen cows, six of them natives, and seven
partly native and partly Durham ; their age varying from six
to twelve ; owned by Mr. Demond from six months to four

HAMPDEN SOCIETY. 275

years. Two of them calved in October, 1851, one in Novem-
ber, and one in December, of the same year ; one in January,
1852, one in February, three in March, two in April, one in
July, and one in August, of the same year. From the 10th to
the 20th of June inclusive, they averaged a fraction short of
ten quarts daily ; from the 10th of September to the 19th in-
clusive, they averaged a fraction over eight quarts daily, each
cow. For the four months, June, July, August, and Septem-
ber, they gave 13,569 quarts, which were sold at four cents per
quart. Their keeping consisted of rather short pasture ; and
they were fed daily with cut hay and three quarts of shorts
mbced together, each. From July 1st to September 13th, they
were fed with green corn, (stalks?) foddered twice a day.
From the last date they were turned into fall feed, with one
peck of cut pumpkins, each, without meal.

Two cows were offered for premium by Amos M. Carleton,
of Chicopee Falls. The first is a native, ten years old, owned
by him two years and four and a half months ; calved August
7, 1852. The account of her milk is rendered for eleven days
in June, 1851, and for eleven days in September, 1852. In
the former period she gave a fraction short of nineteen quarts
(47 pounds) daily ; in the latter period, a fraction short of six-
teen quarts (39^^ pounds) daily. She was fed in June on good
pastm-age, five and a half pounds of wheat bran and oil meal
daily ; in September not so good pasturage, with one bushel
of corn stalks cut up at night, and two quarts of common rye
meal in the morning. The other cow was a Durham and
Ayrshire, four years old, owned seven and a half months;
calved January 27, 1852. She gave, in the eleven days in
June, 12^ quarts daily; and in the eleven days in September,
9^ daily. Her food was a " rather poor pasturage," and in
September she had, at night and morning, one bushel of corn
stalks cut up. In September, 22 quarts of the milk of this
cow gave cream, from which were churned 2|- lbs. of butter;
and in February, (the 1st,) one day's milk, twelve quarts, gave
one pound ^nd nine ounces of butter. Her keeping was good
hay and two quarts of scalded meal per day. The first cow
gave, in September, from the cream of twenty quarts, two lbs.
and fourteen ounces of butter.

Two cows were offered by Michael Dome, one of which

276 HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

gave 36 lbs. of milk daily for nearly six months, (from seven to
eight pounds of butter weekly ;) the other, since March, has
given from eighteen to twenty pounds of milk daily, making
four to five pounds of butter, weekly ; this is a younger cow
than the first.

[See premiums in the following list.]

Premiums Awarded.

[In the absence of reports from many of the committees, the
following list of premiums awarded, is here inserted, as show-
ing the general operations of the society.]

Bulls and Bull Calves — 1 year old and upwards.
2. D. Brainard Merrick, $4 00

From ItoZ years old.

1. Tyler Childs, 4 00

2. Laban Button, 3 00

3. Wniiam Pynchon, 2 00

Under 1 year old.

1. Phineas Stedman, 3 00

2. William Pynchon, 2 00

3. Edward Parsons, 1 00

Milch Cows — 5 years old and upwards.

1. Carleton M. Thayer, 6 00

2. Col. Merrick, 5 00

3. Col. Merrick, . 4 00

4. Hervey Hills, 3 00

5. Hervey Hills, 2 00

For Heifers — -from 2 to 5 years ^old.

1. Hervey HiUs, 5 00

2. Nathaniel Howard, 4.00

3. Tyler Childs, 3 00

For a herd of 13 cows, the gratuity of a silver cup,

offered by Mr. Francis Brewer, to T. H. Demond.

Heifers and Heifer Calves — 2 years old and under.
1. James M. Goodwin, . . . . . . 3 00

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

277

Sumner Chapin, .
Lyman Brown,

Wm. G. Bates, .
H. Bartholamy,
Leonard Converse,

1 year old.

Heifer Calves.

1. S. F. Merrick,

2. John Chase, ......

3. Hervey Hills, . . . • .

Oxen — 6 years and upwards.

1. George Ensworth,

2. Charles Mcintosh,

3. Hezekiah Pease, .

4. Hervey Smith,

5. Hervey Foster,

6. R. W. Bemis,
Gratuity to D. S. Atchinson,

Oxen — 5 years old.

1. Lyman Brown,

2. William Pynchon, .

3. James L. S. Wesson,

4. Simeon Ashley,

5. Orrin Cadwell,

6. Jonathan W. Freeland,

Oxen — 4 years old.

1. H. J. Chapin,

2. Sylvester Chapin,

3. Simeon Ashley,

4. Warren Frost,

5. Sylvester Cooley,

$2 00
1 00

3 00
2 00
1 00

6 00
5 00

00
00
00
00
00

6 00

00
00
00
00
00

Steers — 3 years old and under.

1. Sumner Chapin, .

2. Linus Dickinson, .

3. Leonard Converse,

4. Roderick S. Merrick,

5. L. B. Chapin,

5 00

4 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

2 00
1 00

278 HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

Steers — 2 years old.

1. Roderick S. Merrick, $4 00

2. Lyman Brown, ....... 3 00

3. William Pynchon, 2 GO

4. Joel M. Lyman, 1 00

Steers — 1 year old.

1. James M. Coomes, 3 00

2. Lyman Brown, 2 00

8. Warren Frost, 1 00

Fat Cattle — -for Slaughter.

1. George Taylor, 8 00

2. C. Fowler, 7 00

3. Seth Bush, . ' 6 00

4. D. Monson, Jr., 5 00

5. Luke Bush, 4 00

6. Seth Bush, 3 00

Single Ox.

1. E. Ashley, 4 00

Fat Cattle — -for the Stall.

1. George Lay ton, 6 00

2. Seth Bush, 5 00

8. Charles Fowler, . . . . . . . 4 00

4. Daniel Monson, 3 00

Town Teams.

1. Longmeadow, 12 00

2. Westfield, 9 00

3. West Springfield, 6 00

4. Springfield, . 5 00

5. Wilbraham, 4 00

Swine — Boars.

1. J. L. Briggs, 5 00

2. Amos M. Carlton, 4 00

3. Orrin Cadwell, 3 00

4. Daniel L. Atchinson, 2 00

Breeding Sows.

1. Horace Clark, 5 00

2. Miner Hitchcock, 4 00

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

279

3. Jonathan Carlisle, $3 00

4. Amos M. Carlton, 2 00

5. J. L. Briggs, 1 00

1. Daniel Merrick,
1. Horace Clarke,

Litter of Pigs.

Fat Hogs.

Sheep — Long Wool Bucks.

1. Horace Pease,

2. Pliny Merrick,

3. Daniel L. Atchinson,

Lonsr Wool Ewes.

1. Horace Pease,

2. Pliny Merrick,

3. Pliny Merrick,

Short Wool Bucks.
1. Pliny Merrick, ....

Short Wool Eives.
S. S. Merrick, a diploma.

South Down Bucks.
Hervey Smith, a diploma.

South Doum Ewes.
Hervey Smith, a gratuity, .

Horses — Geldings.

1. J. L. Briggs, .

2. William Pynchon,.

3. George F. Ramsdell,
Gratuity to D. J. Bartlett, .
Gratuity to George A. Kibbe,

Studs.

1. Jacob Steover,

2. Amos M. Carlton, .
Gratuity to B. S. Brocket, .

4 00

3 00

3 00
2 00
1 00

3 00

1 00

3 00

2 00
1 00
1 00

1 00

5 00

3 00

2 00

280

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

Farm Horses.

1. Richard Bagg, Jr., .

2. James M. Coomes,

3. George Ensworth, .

4. Eliphalet Trask, .

5. James T. Ames, .
Gratuity to F. H. Moseley, upon a pair of horses, not

entered, .........

Diplo7nas aivardedhy the Directors. — F. H. Moseley,
R. W. Bemis, Geo. Ensworth, Samuel Warner.

$5 00

00
00
00
00

1 00

Carriage Horses, in Pairs.

Chester W. Chapin,
J. S. Robbinson, .
John McCray,

Breeding Mares.

1. Abel Cooley, ....

2. Gideon Phillips' estate, .

3. Lyman Phelps, ....

4. Oliver Hawks, ....

Colts — 1 year old.

1. Horace Pease, ....

2. Robert W. Bemis, ...

Colts — 2 years old.

1. Nathan P. Bartholomew,

2. Ethan Mcintosh, ....

3. Silas Root, .....

Colts — 3 years old.

1. H. A. Dennison, ....

2. M. F. Moore, ....

3. L. D. Fowler, ....

Fovjls.

1. John F. Wood, White Dorkings, .

2. George Walker, " "

1. George Stoddard, White Shanghaes,

2. George C. Dunham, " «

00
00
00

00
00
00
00

2 00
1 00

3 00
2 00
1 00

00
00
50

00
50
00
50

HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

381

1. George Stoddard, Black Java Pheasant Game,

2. George Stoddard, "White Pheasant Game,

1. Marcus F. Moore, Chittagongs,

2. William Bodurtha, "

1. Drayton Perkins, Black Spanish, .

2. R. Bliss, " "
A gratuity to D. Brainard Merrick, for 6 white turkeys,

$1 00
50

1 00
50

1 00
50
50

282

FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

FRANKLIN COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Ploughing.

The Plough, the Loom, and the Forge, are represent-
atives of the three grand useful arts of life, that feed, clothe,
and shelter mankind; that form the basis of all our domes-
tic economy, the foundation upon which has been erected,
through the stages of continual progress, the grand, brilliant,
and enduring superstructure of our glorious modern civiliza-
tion. What the key-stone is to the arch, what the corner-
stone is to the temple, is the humble, ungainly and earth-
begrimed plough — in the eyes of the ignorant and unin-
itiated so insignificant and contemptible — to the blessed and
beautiful culture that is transporting the solitary place and
the wilderness into a beautiful garden, and bringing back to
earth the ancient Eden. Not a single grain waves its banner
of living green in the breeze, or fills out its little granary of
ears with rich store of nutriment for man; not a tree bends
down with its blushing, golden fruit, replete with precious
nectarean juices, sweeter than the food of Olympian deities ;
not a flower unveils its starry eyes to the sunshine, or rose per-
fumes the breath of the gale from its fragrant chalices, — that
may not owe a richer value, a greater worth, a higher grace, a
sweeter, diviner loveliness, to that instrument of too often little
valued labor, there in the dark and humble furrow, through
whose prowess the chaos of the outward world is being grad-
ually brought into a grateful and blessed order, and the rugged
old earth smoothed and softened into a smiling, bounteous
garden, a paradise of beauty and delight for man. It is the
fertile produce of the plough that feeds the fresh comeliness of
blooming youth, that sustains the stout sinews and stalwart

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 283

strength of manhood, that nourishes the rounded form, the
brilliant and enchanting loveliness of blessed woman. It is
the fruits of the plough which load the white winged broods
of busy commerce that cover the seas, and furnish the raw
material for the myriad flying fingers of steel and iron, that ply
their tasks in the great manufactories, while they give nourish-
ment to the thousands upon thousands of industrious operatives.

All honor, then, to the plough ; and fit it is, that the mon-
arch of the mighty agricultural land of the Orient, that feeds
the most crowded population on the face of the earth, should
annually drive the ploughshare in the presence of his people,
and that the great, free, intelligent States of the western world
should hold their yearly fairs, to glorify the plough, and cele-
brate the humane and bloodless triumphs of this noblest of the
useful arts, the great foundation art of agriculture. Thas grand
and impartial is the ofiice of the plough, and hence our agri-
cultural societies have instituted ploughing matches and pre-
miums to encourage and aid, as far as lay in their power, all
progress in tillage, and improvement in the ploughman's labors,
— every advancement in the thorough culture of the soil. And
your committee believe that in the department of the plough
and ploughing, the following essential elements are to be taken
into consideration : —

First, The depth to which the soil must be moved and
stirred.

Secondly, The thorough disintegration, or breaking up of
the earth.

Thirdly, The diminution of pressure on the ploughshare, and
hence of draft, and the consequent lightening of labor for man
and for beast ; and the lay of the furrow.

The rules and regulations of the society name seven inches
as the depth required. Your committee, however, beg leave
respectfully to suggest, that they regard this ultimatum of
depth as far too shallow for any thorough tillage and proper
culture of the soil, in any and every place where the plough
can be driven deeper. There doubtless may be, here and there,
tracts of rocky land, where the ledge crops out, or lies very
near the surface, where deep ploughing may be an impossi-
bility ; but the more these rocks are exposed by the plough-
share to the action of sun and air, the more quickly will they

2S4 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

be disintegrated, slacked or decomposed, and the valuable
mineral manures they contain rendered available and made a
part of the soil. In this ^\'ay, as all the agriculturists in the
mountain districts are aware, well worn and apparently ex-
hausted soils, if allowed to remain fallow a short time, become
as strong and good as new. And we believe we may say
that every thorough scientific farmer, the country over, will agree
with us, that deep ploughing, in all soils, cannot be too highly
recommended, or too strongly urged, if we would increase by
a lar2:e per centage the amount of our crops.

A few brief considerations will show the reason for this
opinion.

In the first place, deep ploughing allows the air to percolate
through the soil, and thus play its part in the nourishment of
the roots of plants, in the decomposition of the various earths,
and the deposition of moisture.

Secondly, deep ploughing carries the manures down further
into the earth, exposes more soil to the action of the atmos-
phere and sun-light, and allows the roots to penetrate more
deeply and have more room in which to grow.

Thirdly, a deep furrow covers up the manures that have
been spread over the surface, and thus retains the nutritious
and volatile elements, that otherwise would escape into the
air, and be lost.

Fourthly, by deep and thorough tillage, all lands, of what-
ever description of soil, are enabled to endure and to defy the
periodical droughts, that form a peculiar feature of our New
England climate. There has been a theory in times past, and
a very plausible and specious theory it was, that in light soils,
on a gravelly or sandy subsoil, the goodness of the manures
would be lost by deep ploughing, or rendered unavailable, as
they must necessarily leach or filter away through the gravelly
or sandy substratum. Any one, however, who has passed im-
pure, turbid, or even oflensive water through a common filter,
will find that even a few inches of earth suffice to remove the
color and the odor from the water, and render it pure and
limpid; and that, as the juices of the manure pass from the
surface down into the ground, the earth speedily absorbs aU
the useful and nutritious salts, and that there is infinitely more
danger of the goodness of the manure being evaporated from

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 285

too shallow ploughing, than of its being filtered away and lost
by being buried too deep. Another consideration will serve to
show the value of deep ploughing to defend the growing crops
from the droughts. In the dryest and hottest weather, the air
contains a large amount of moisture, that is condensed in
drops upon all bodies and substances of a lower temperature
than the atmosphere itself, as the pitchers and glasses on oui
table show, as well as the bricks and stones of om- pavements,
and the leaves and flowers glistening in their morning coronets
of flashing dew-drops. In this way, in time of drought, every
particle of sand and earth receives and drinks in moisture from
the air, especially when the night has reduced their tempera-
ture ; and it is thus obvious that the deeper the air is allowed
to enter freely, the greater will be the amowut of moisture
absorbed ; and thus in severe and long protracted droughts,
the light sandy soils suffer less than the more heavy and
clayey, which bake hard and refuse to allow the air to perco-
late through the pores, and thus carry to the suffering and
thirsty roots the refreshment which they need.

Especially, if the subsoil be hard-pan, to give proper drain-
age and to allow the roots to penetrate, deep ploughing, in the
opinion of your committee, is the sine qua non.

In a stiff", heavy soil of clay or clayey loam, we believe no
one at the present day will have the hardihood to recommend
light tillage, for the only possibility of thorough culture depends
on the complete draining and the lightening up of the soil by
ploughing deep. Let every farmer among us who doubts, try
the experiment, by ploughing contiguous lands of Like lay and
character, one shallow and one deep, and let the difference in
their crops the coming year control his decision, and we shall
have no fears of his disagreeing with the views of the commit-
tee. And we believe that the great body of observing and
reflecting farmers, all over the land, are ready now to give a
hearty response to our recommendation of deep ploughing.
In the matter of the thorough disintegration, or breaking up
of the soil into particles — the gi^at aim of all ploughing and
cultivating — your committee cannot but feel it to be their duty
to recommend the double plough, or improved ^Michigan,*

* Mathematical straight line plough, Knox's invention. The inclined planes of the
ploughshare graduated with such mathematical precision as to make the pressure on
all parts equal, and diminish the draft.

286 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

which, while it leaves no ridge of turf unbroken, or merely-
crowded aside, as with the old Michigan, so beautifully breaks
up and pulverizes the surface as hardly to require the after
services of the harrow, and renders it almost fit and ready,
without further action, to receive the seed; and the committee
were also glad to observe that the double plough could be
worked with one team in about the same time as the common
single plough ; and we urge it upon every farmer to avail him-
self of the improved facilities thus offered him in the breaking
up of new lands.

The diminution of pressure upon the ploughshare, and the
consequent ease of draft, by which the labor of man and beast
is much lessened, is an important point to be taken into consid-
eration in the manufacture of ploughs ; and a grand improve-
ment is claimed in this respect by the patentees of a new
instrument* employed on the present occasion, which, if real,
is deserving of especial notice and commendation ; but, owing
to a change in regard to the proviso of " owning the ploughs
employed thirty days previous to the exhibition," made within
a few days, a number of members were prevented from enter-
ing their teams, and hence there was too little competition —
all the ploughs, save one, being of the same kind — for the
committee to judge fairly of the superiority of the plough em-
ployed, if any, over the other patterns.

In giving their award of premiums, the committee had less
field of action and room for choice, on account of the unu-
sually small number (for the reason mentioned above) of
entries. The society's prescribed depth of seven inches was
not in all cases come up to, and the committee, on that ac-
count, are obliged to withhold a greater expression of satisfac-
tion from teams that did their work quickly and laid their land
well. Yet, all farmers know that it is far easier to lay a light,
shallow furrow handsomely than it is a deep one, when there
is only an inch or two of difference, as well as to do the work
more speedily. The land selected was unfortunately not en-
tirely level, nor homogeneous, being in some parts heavy and
moist. Certain lots were of a light loamy texture and of easier
tillage than the rest, — facts considered by the committee in

* See Note on preceding page.

[FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 287

making up their judgment. The ease and facility with which
teams may work, and the beauty of the cattle, however de-
lightful to behold, are not elements that come into the estima-
tion and decision of the committee, but only the depth, com-
pleteness and excellency of the result.

All which is respectfully submitted, for the committee, by

James Richardson, Jr., Chairman.

James Newton, Greenfield, 1st premium,
Charles Jones, Deerfield, 2d "

Albert Smead, Greenfield, 3d "

Solomon Hawks, Shelburne, 4th "
Edward A. Robbins, -5th "

$6 00
5 00
4 00
3 00
2 00

Michigan Plough.
A. C. "Whelock, Greenfield, 1st and 2d premium, . 5 00

Grain and Root Crop.

The committee on grain and root culture, have considered
the various statements which have been submitted to them,
and recommend the following premiums a'nd gratuities : —

Indian Corn.

1. Moses Stebbins, Deerfield, . . . . . $5 00

2. Asahel Wright, « 3 00

WJieat.

1. William E. Bard well, Shelburne, . . . . 5 00

2. E. E. Robinson, Sunderland, . . . . 3 00

3. Thomas Greenough, Deerfield, . . . . 1 00
Lafayette Anderson, Shelburne, (gratuity,) . . 1 00

The amount of land improved by Mr. Anderson did not
come up to the limit prescribed by the society, but it would
otherwise have been entitled to one of the regular premiums.

Rye.
E. E. Robinson, Sunderland, $5 00

^288 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

Carrots.

iDr. Lucius Cook, Wendell, $2 00

Aaron Buddington, Leyden, (gratuity,) . . . 1 00
Mr. Oliver Williams, of Sunderland, entered a lot of 28 rods,
which produced 219|- bushels, or 1,300 bushels to the acre, but
the committee did not feel themselves at liberty to give a pre-
mium for the product of a piece of land so much smaller than
the rules of the society prescribe. *

Turnips.
Frank Mather, Greenfield, $2 00

Onions.
Elihu Belden, East Whately, 2 00

Joseph Smith, Chairman.
Greenfield, Dec. 8, 1852.

Moses Stebbins^s Statement.

The corn which I entered for premium was raised on land
planted to corn in 1851. In 1851 spread 25 loads of manure
to the acre, with 200 lbs. plaster, and ploughed in ; rolled the
land well, harrowed it fine, and planted to corn ; the product
being about 86 bushels per acre.

In May, 1852, I ploughed the land seven inches deep, then
subsoiled sbc inches deeper; then roUed well, carted on 25
loads green manure, and spread on the furrow with 200 lbs.
plaster, and harrowed thoroughly ; planted with twelve-rowed
Canada corn three feet by three feet each way, and hoed four
times.

In October we harvested 240 bushels of ears of corn. I
have not shelled it yet, not considering it yet in a merchant-
able state.

From one square rod of ground we harvested and shelled,
as it came from the stalks, 34 quarts of corn.

South Deerfield, Nov. 17, 1852.

Asahel Wrighfs Statement.

I took 300 rods of pine plain land, the soil a sandy loam,
and divided it into four ridges, or lands; it was ploughed

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 289

about the 10th of May to the depth of seven inches, and sub-
soiled eight inches, making in all fifteen inches in depth. I
subsoiled Nos. 1 and 3 of the ridges. I planted it the 17th of
May with yellow corn, called the Clapp corn. It was manured
in the hill with a compost manure, made of muck and stable
manure, equal parts, at the rate of eight loads or four loads per
acre, with the addition of one-half pick of plaster Paris to a
load. I cut up the corn and shocked it the 11th of Septem-
ber, and made four rows of stocks. In Nos. 1 and 3 I harvested
74^ bushels of ears ; Nos. 2 and 4, I harvested 64 bushels of
ears. I took four bushels of ears and dried them and shelled
it, and had one bushel 26J quarts.

I could perceive no essential difference in the growth of the
corn, until the drought commenced, and then there was a mark-
ed difference ; that which was subsoiled kept green during the
season, and the other, the leaves rolled and turned yellow.

The above corn was hoed three times.

Deerfield, Nov. 18, 1852.

William E. BardwelVs Statement.

Wheat offered for premium by William E. Bardwell ; quan-
tity of land, one acre and two rods. The land, previous to
1851, — broke up in 1849, planted to corn, with about 25 loads
of manure ; in 1850 sowed to wheat, no manure ; in 1851
planted to corn, with 23 loads of manure, 35 bushels to a load,
one-half swamp muck, one-half stable manure. Quantity of
corn about 70 bushels. In 1852 sowed to wheat, ploughed 3d
of May, sowed the 4th with two bushels of wheat ; wheat
soaked 24 hours in weak lye, then rolled in lime ; harvested
the 12th and 13th of August ; threshed in September. Quan-
tity of wheat, 35 bushels 7 quarts.

EXPENSE.

Ploughing, sowing, harvesting, five days, . . . ^5 00

Threshing, 2 00

Two bushels of wheat at $1 33, . . . . 2 67

P 67
37

$46
4

96
00

$50
9

96
67

290 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

35 bushels 7 quarts, at $1 33 per bushel, .
One ton of straw,

Deduct expense of labor and seed,

Leaves a profit of $41 29

Shelburne, Nov. 15, 1852.

E. E. Robinson's Statement.

This land that I sowed to wheat was old plain land. It
was considered very poor. My mode of cultivating this land,
six years past, has been as follows : the first year was to
plough in about twenty loads of swamp muck per acre, and
about twelve loads of compost manure in the hill, one-half of
it was stable manure and the other half was swamp muck ;
planted broom-corn ; and when I cut the corn in the fall I
ploughed the stalks in, and sowed it to rye ; and in the spring
following I sowed on clover and harrowed it in, and the next
year I cut it over, but it was not worth gathering; my reason
for doing so was to have the clover roots grow ; and the next
year I commenced the same rotation as above stated. I sowed
my wheat about the 10th of September. I sowed two bushels
per acre ; and in the spring I sowed on about 20 bushels of
ashes per acre on my wheat, and the crop of wheat was 27
bushels per acre. The wheat that I sowed was the white flint
bearded wheat.

The land that I sowed to rye was old plain land, very poor
indeed. I went through the same rotation as above stated,
except the ashes. I did not sow any on. My rye I sowed
about the 1st of October. I sowed one bushel per acre. The
crop of rye was 18 bushels per acre. The rye that I sowed
was the white rye.

My mode of ploughing this land has been from seven to
' eight inches in depth.

Sunderland, Sept. 21, 1852.

Thomas Greenoug-h's Statement.

We present for your consideration a crop of winter wheat,
raised on Fort Hill, in Deerfield, on a field containing 168 rods

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 291

of land. The soil is a light loam. Previous to 1849 said lot
had been used for a rye field, and occasionally a crop of corn.
The rye was generally of good quality. The yield, from six
to twelve bushels per acre. When corn was planted some
ashes were used, otherwise no manure was applied. Subse-
quently the crops have been as follows : —

1849, Indian corn ; 20 loads of manure from the yard spread
to the acre.

1850, winter grain ; clover sown in the spring.

1851, clover; the first crop mowed; the second crop, which
was an average one, was harrowed down and ploughed in
about the middle of August. About the 20th of September
two bushels of wheat per acre was sown.

The present season (1852) the wheat was harvested. AVe
obtained from this field 27|- bushels of excellent quality. The
white flint was the kind sown.

It will be remembered that no manure of any consequence
has been applied to the above field for a series of years, with
the exception of the year 1849, and that the soil is of ordinary
quality.

Deerfield, Sept. 28, 1852.

Lafaijette Anderson's Statement.

I would say to the committee, that when I entered this piece
of wheat for premium, it had not been measured ; I thought,
however, there was at least an acre, but upon measuring it
there was but 151 rods ; so that, according to the rules of the
society, it cannot draw a premium, even if superior. I will,
however, present the following statement : —

In 1851 it was planted with corn. Manner of cultivation in
1851 : I spread 24 loads of stable manure upon the sward and
ploughed it in, then applied a top-dressing of 35 loads of the
same kind of manure, and gave it a thorough harrowing; put
a mixture of plaster, ashes and hen manure in the hill, planted
three feet apart each way. Yield, 125 bushels shelled corn.
In the spring of 1852 I dug up the old corn stubs, harrowed
the land well with a heavy harrow before sowing, but did not
plough. Used no manure this year. Sowed two bushels of
wheat (do not know the kind) the last of April ; harvested in

292 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

September ; threshed in October. Yield, 32^ bushels, or
about 34] bushels to the acre.

EXPENSES.

Two bushels wheat at $1 25 per bushel, . . . |2 50
Labor, preparing land and sowing, self and team,

three days each, . . . . . . . 6 00

Harvesting and threshing, . . . . . . 7 00

Total expenses, $15 50

Value of crop, 32| bushels wheat, at $1 25 per bush., $40 62
Two tons of straw, at $5 per ton, . . . . 10 00

Total value of crop, $50 62

Total expenses, . . . . . . . 15 50

Leaving a balance in favor of crop of . . . $35 12

Lucius Cooke's Statement.

The subscriber, a member of the Franklin County Agricul-
tural Society, submits the following statements relative to the
cultivation of a patch of carrots raised by him the current
year.

Said carrots were raised on Wendell Hill, in said county, on
the place whereon said applicant now lives. The exact quan-
tity of land was three-fourths of an acre, and the number of
bushels, or baskets, six hundred and fifty-one ; and the number
of tons, sixteen. This number of tons was ascertained by
weighing four or five loads on the hay scales, as they were
drawn from the field, and dividing the sum of their weight by
the number of bushels, or baskets, and finding them to average
fifty pounds.

The land on which these carrots were raised, had been
mowed for eight years prior to 1850, when it was planted with
potatoes, nearly all of which were destroyed by the disease, and
were not worth half the cost of harvesting.

In 1851 the land was planted to corn, which was much
damaged by worms, and afterwards set out to ruta bagas,
which grew well, and yielded a fine crop, but having no ani-
mals that would eat them, except horses, they were kept through

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 293

the winter in a cellar, and then thrown out for manure — the
entire crops on the land not paying the expense of cultivation,
by one-half On or about the 20th of May, 1852, the land was
sowed in drills, eighteen inches apart, to carrots, by a machine
bought of Mr. Wm. Elliot, for the sum of three dollars and
twenty-five cents, the land being first prepared by deep plough-
ing with a common plough, then raked and levelled — about
thirty loads of horse manure being spread on the land before
ploughing. The labor of preparing the land, sowing the seeds,
cultivating and harvesting the crop, I contracted for at the
commencement, for the sum of seventy-five dollars, which
seemed to me and others as an extravagant price, but as some
stone were to be removed in the job, I consoled myself with
the belief that I might stand it "just this once." The crop
has just been harvested.

As to the value of the carrots, I have always believed them
worth as much as oats, by the bushel, to feed to horses, which
are the only animals I keep. Four or five tons of them I have
sold at from $12 to $15 per ton ; at $12 I could sell them all,
any day, and the sum would amount to $192. Add to this,
four dollars, a sum for which I sold the tops as they lay in the
field, and four more dollars, which I hope to get as premium,
and the sum would amount to $200. Deduct from this, $75,
paid for labor, and $25 more, for the cost of seed and my own
care and skill — the last being a charge I make from habit —
and it will leave $100 as the net income from the three-fourths
of an acre.

Wendell, Nov. 15, 1852.

Aaron O. BuddingtorCs Statement.

The land upon which I raised my crop of carrots this sea-
son, was in a high state of cultivation, having had carrots on
it three, and part of it five, years in succession, with an increase
of crop each year, it being manured at the rate of thirty cart
loads per year, for the last three years. The soil is a deep
loam, free from any excess of water, and xesting on hard pan.
I manured it this year, at the rate of thirty loads to the acre,
of barnyard manure. My mode of cultivation is as follows:

294 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

To spread the manure evenly before ploughing, then com-
mence with a side-hill plough on one side, ploughing beam
deep a strip about one rod wide, then rake off the stones and
whatever else I wish, into the furrow, then plough another
strip, and so proceed until done. Sow, with seed-sower,
eighteen inches to two feet, between the rows, and thin them
out, the second time hoeing, so as to leave them from eight to
ten inches in the row. I sow at the rate of three pounds of
seed to the acre, it being less work to weed them when small
than where they are scattering, for you can, if you have them
thick, cut them out with the hoe, leaving two or three in a
place, which is much less work for the fingers,^ than where you
have to watch for fear of losing one. Weed and hoe often
enough to keep thoroughly clean from weeds, not letting any
go to seed. In this way I find less work in raising a crop of
carrots on the same ground, each succeeding year.

Fifteen loads of manure.

Four days ploughing and sowing, .

Twelve days hoeing and weeding, .

Ten days harvesting.

One and three-quarters pound of seed,

Use of land — ninety-eight rods,

Four hundred and forty bushels, at 25 cents.

Profit, $63 44

Crop raised, 440 bushels ; weighed, 50 lbs. to the bushel, 40
bushels of the above crop.

Leyden, Nov. 13, 1852.

Oliver Williams's Statement. -

I submit the following statement of the produce of twenty-
eight rods of ground, sown to carrots the past season. The
land on which they grew is naturally moist, with a clayey sub-
soil ; the condition good ; grew corn on the same in 1851,
spreading twenty loads long manure to the acre. The land
has been manured this year the same, and ploughed under, to

$15

$46

nts.

•

110

FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

295

the depth of seven inclies. The growth of the crop I attribute
to the thorough pulverization of the soil, which was accom-
plished at the time of sowing, by the use of one of Wood-
worth's Planters, in sowing the seed, which implement I con-
sider preferable to the rake. Sowed in drills, eighteen inches
apart, per row.

CARROT FIELD.

July

1852.

May 14, Five loads long manure,
" 20, Carting and spreading same,
" 22, Team ploughing and harrowing,

June 6, Sowing seed with machine,
" 6, Seed, three ounces,
18, Weeding and thinning,
8, Ploughing between rows, .

Aug. 15, Ploughing between rows, .

Nov. 8, Digging, topping and drawing.

Interest on land, at ^2 per acre.

1852. CARROT FIELD.

Nov. 10, 219|- bushels carrots, at 30 cents,
Expense brought forward.

Dr.

$12 45

Cr.

$65 85
12 45

Profit, $53 40

The weight of carrots, per bushel, fifty-five pounds.
Sunderland, Nov. 15, 1852.

F. Mather's Statement.

The crop which I propose to offer for premium, is one-half
acre turnips, known in this region as the Michigan Turnip.
Last year the land on which they were raised was planted with
corn, using about thirty loads of manure per acre ; this year no
manure was used. It was planted about the 12th of May,
with a seed planter, in rows, two and a half feet apart, the plants
standing twelve or fifteen inches apart, after transplanting.
They were hoed three times; harvested the first week in No-
vember, producing four hundred and five bushels.

296 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

Expense of raising- said Crop.

Ploughing, $0 75

Planting, ......... 25

Thinning and transplanling, . . . . . 2 00

Hoeing, three times, . . . . . . . 3 00

Harvesting, ..... . . . 4 00

Rent of land, 6 00

Total, $16 00

Greenfield, Nov. 20, 1852.

Elihu Belden's Statement.

As it is required of me that I should give you an exact
statement concerning the condition of the land, and the man-
ner in which I cultivated my onions, offered for premium, I
will state as follows :

The land on which I had my onions was planted with
broom-corn last year. I ploughed in clover, and put on about
ten loads of manure per acre, which yielded about eight hun-
dred pounds per acre. This year I burned the stalks, and
raked ofl' the stubs. After ploughing, I had the soil well pul-
verized, by harrowing, and rolling in ten loads of manure. I
drilled in the onion seed with my corn planter. After the
second weeding I applied eighty pounds of improved super-
phosphate of lime. The one-fourth of an acre yielded ninety
bushels of onions.

East Whately, Oct. 20, 1852.

Sheep.

A patron of your society, at a table talk two years ago, by a
slip of the tongue, gave us the following axiom, viz.: " That
he who made one blade of grass grow where two grew before,
was a public benefactor." The speaker that followed, play-

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 297

fully responded, that he presumed his friend who preceded him
meant to encourage the cultivation of very large blades of
grass. Your committee will not undertake to judge of the
correctness of this philosophy when applied to grass, but they
would be ready to maintain that one animal may often be
made to grow where two grew before, to the great advantage
of the farmer, and particularly so to those who are directing
their attention to the raising of sheep.

There was a fme illustration of the above principle in the
exhibition of sheep, which, though few in number, were of a
very superior quality ; each in their different variety speaking
well of the husbandry of their owners. No. 1 was a lot of
South Down Ewes, owned by Samuel Fisk, of Shelburne, (who
seems to be a sort of Jacob, of Scriptural notoriety, in every
thing he turns his hand to,) three-fourths blooded, six in num-
ber, each of which had brought up a pair of lambs the past
summer, and weighed as follows, viz. : two of them 134 lbs.
each, one 140 lbs., one 154 lbs., and two of them 164 lbs. each.
The lambs were sold the past season, at four months old, for
§6 40 a pair; add to this 3i lbs. wool, at 34c. per lb., $1 19,
makes the product to each ewe $7 59 per annum.

It appears by a written statement of this modern Jacob,
handed your committee, that the six ewes exhibited have raised
in the three last years 36 lambs, w4iich have been sold when
4 months old for the sum of $110 40; to which add $21 42,
the value of the wool, makes $131 82, as the income from
six ewes for three consecutive years, or $21 97 to each.

A few years since wool was one of the staple productions of
Franklin county, but the free pasturage of the western prairies,
speckled over wuth vast flocks of sheep, the wool from wdiich
can be transported hither for a penny a pound, has w^ell nigh
driven the fine wooled sheep from our mountain farms. But
while this has been going on, the increased population of our
manufacturing villages and the growth of our cities has opened
a market for mutton and lambs, for the supply of which our
nearness to market gives us advantages against which no
western farmer can compete.

During the past winter a farmer of Conway has sold a pair
of sheep in the Boston market, for mutton, for one hundred
dollars.

298 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

Another farmer of the county, who is giving his attention to
raising early lambs, sold his entire lot of 62 for the sum of
$300, or $4 82 cents per head.

The fine grasses of the Connecticut Valley, as also Ihe small
farms of the mountain slopes, that shed Iheir waters into this
beautiful river, are peculiarly adapted to this species of hus-
bandry. Small flocks, and the nicest of care, are the only re-
quisites for success. Neither is there any danger of exceeding
the demand; and the committee would hope that the statistics
herewith presented will awaken an attention to this subject,
the result of which will be at our succeeding fairs, the exhibition
of a vastly increased number of specimens of sheep for the
shambles.

All which is submitted.

G. Dickinson, Chairman.

First, second, and third premiums were awarded to Aaron
Buddington, of Leyden, for merino sheep.

Fat Cattle.

The four yoke of oxen from Shelburne were fine animals,
fully sustaining the reputation which that town has acquired
for its highly improved farm stock. The average weight of the
eight oxen was 2,002 lbs. per head.

The six year old steers, owned by Mr. Arms, to whom the
first premium is awarded, are deserving of all praise. Reared
as they have been from calves, with little extra feed, till within
the last four months, they form an exception to the ordinary
growth of neat stock. Their weight is bf:)05 lbs. Mr. Arms
has furnished your committee with substantially the following
statement : —

" When calves, were fed the first three months with skimmed
milk, with a little meal, ground from a mixture of three .parts
oats to two of rye and one of corn ; at three months old were
turned to pasture till winter. From that time to June last they
consumed, in all, about 15 bushels of meal, which was fed
mostly to them during spring work. They were broke when
two years old, and worked regularly on the farm till July, 1851.

FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

299

From June last to this date, September 29, they have been fed
with meal twice a day, and have consumed in all 85 bushels of
provender, mostly corn and oats, the mixture worth 4.s'. per
bushel, total value, ^56 66. They have never been over-fed,
always leaving a clean manger. They were six years old last
March ; are seven-eighths Durham ; were both sired by the
celebrated Deerfield bull, known as the Childs' bull, and owned
by Samuel Childs, Esq."

Those who have known them from calves, and who know
Mr. Arms's management of stock, impute something of their
extraordinary growth to the w^holesome and systematic feed-
ing, and the regular working of cattle, for which Mr. A. is dis-
tinguished. Although now very fat, for aught that appears,
they may continue to increase' in size and fatness for a long
time to come.

Per order of the committee,

Austin Rice, Chairman.

Consider Arms, Conway,

1st

premium.

. $8 00

Joseph Anderson, Shelburne,

2d pi

-emium,

7 00

Solomon Smead, •'

6 00

Joseph Anderson, "

4th

5 00

Joseph Anderson, "

5th

... 4 00

Dennis Lee, Conway,

6th

3 00

Abijah Stearns, "

7th

2 00

Town Teams.

Two teams only were presented. Their general appearance
was fine, and gave evidence of good taste and enterprising
ambition from their owners in raising stock, as most of them
were well matched, both in form and color, and in good thrift.

Shelburne team numbered 88 head. This team was too
long for the lot, (or rather the lot was too short for the team,)
and they were arranged on a curved line. We noticed the
weight of five pairs of steers, four years old, averaging 3,550
lbs.; also one pair of five years, weight 4,235; all of good qual-
ity and well matched.

300 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

Conway team numbered 46 head. This team also had
some superior pairs of four years old steers; three pairs, aver-
age weight 0,670, and well matched. But we must speak of a
pair of calves on the lead of this team, owned by C. Arms,
weight 5,-V}0 pounds, which your committee think cannot be
beaten in this State or in any other, as to beauty, if in size.
Verily, they would make fine leaders to the World's Fair.
All which is respectfully submitted.

R. H. Leavitt, Chairman.

Shelburne, 1st premium, .... ^15 00
Conway, 2d " .... 10 00

Fowls.

The first premium is awarded to Mr. G. B. Alverson, of
Greenfield, for the best lot of Black Spanish fowls ; better spe-
cimens are rarely seen in any poultry yard — good layers, fine
meated, and fine cooking fowls.

The second premium is awarded to Mr. Wm. A. Rowland,
of Conway, for two lots, composed of a mixture of Shanghae
and other large breeds. They were all very fat, healthy, fine
looking fowls of the kind, but the committee do not consider
this kind of fowls so good as that entered by Mr. Alverson,
and it was this consideration mainly which determined the
premiums. The committee are of opinion that the Shanghae
and other large breeds of hens are not on the whole so desira-
ble or profitable as the smaller breeds. Had we been gov-
erned by the number and size of the fowls exhibited, and the
interest and system manifested in fowl raising, we should
probably have awarded the first premium to Mr. Rowland.
Mr. Rowland had, January 1, 1852, fifty hens and four cocks;
since that time, these hens have laid 4,807 eggs, and raised
about seventy chickens ; one of these hens has laid 146 eggs
during this period and hatched and raised a brood of nine
chickens; one pullet of this brood began to lay on the 7th
day of August, being then four months and twelve days old,
and has now laid twenty-two eggs.

Of his mode of raising hens, Mr. Rowland himself says : —

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 301

" My poultry house and yard, where I keep the larger part of
my hens, is light, warm and dry, with a good supply of food
and fresh water. I usually feed my hens with corn meal,
mixed with water, cold in summer and hot in winter; I also
feed them with corn, oats, boiled potatoes, meat, burnt bones,
6cc. The hens are always fat, and there is not a day in the
year but what some of them lay. I sell my eggs at an aver-
age of about 15 cents per dozen ; last year I sold my chickens
for market, at from 8 to 10 cents per pound.

"One hen weighed, when dressed, 7| lbs.; they averaged
about 4 lbs. The cost of keeping them, as near as I can
judge, is about one mill and a half per day."

Master Stephen W. Woods, of Greenfield, entered a few
specimens of the Bantam and White Dorking fowls, which,
although not equal to the other entries, exhibited a considera-
ble interest in fowl raising, and we recommend to him a gra-
tuity of fifty cents.

Mr. Peter Peck, of Shelburne, is awarded the first premium
for the only but very beautiful lot of white geese ; they were
much admired by all eyes.

The committee regret that there were no entries of turkeys,
and that there were so few kinds of hens ; and we take this
opportunity to recommend to the society that a greater num-
ber and variety of premiums be offered under this important
head of our annual agricultural exhibition.

The labors of the committee are ended. Water, if left to
itself, will find its level; so will most men; and we see not
why the same principle may not be extended to hens. There-
fore we drop the subject, hoping that it will find its proper
place in the attentions of the good citizens of Franklin county.
All which is respectfully submitted.

W. Griswold, Chairman.

Butter.

The committee have attended to the duty assigned them,
and feel gratified in expressing their satisfaction with all the
samples offered for their inspection.

302 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

Whole number of entries, sixteen; a part of which, however,
although fully equal in quality to any presented, lacked in the
required quantity to be entitled to premium.

Most of the statements of the process of making and setting
were so brief and indefinite as to be of little practical value.

The samples of Fred. G. Smith, John Wilder, and several
others, were so equal, or so nearly equal to any offered, that
the committee found it very difficult to decide, and would
gladly have awarded more premiums if they had had the
authority and the funds of the society would have permit-
ted.

The committee trust that others will, for this time, "take
the will for the deed," and that the citizens of Franklin will
awake to their true interests and see to it, that a society which
has thus far prospered beyond all expectations, shall be sus-
tained by the necessary funds to enable it to increase its boun-
ties and usefulness.

When we take into consideration how largely the product
of the dairy contributes to the living of every family, the luxury
of having good butter at every meal, its absolute necessity to
even comfortable living, and its importance as a source of
profit to the farmer — and the fact that no county in the State
is better adapted to dairying, we cannot forbear urging upon
those in the business, and not fuJIy posted vp, the importance
of more care in the making and packing their butter for mar-
ket. It is well known that a large proportion of the butter
sent to our markets, is sold for 2d and 3d quality, at 10 to 50
per cent, less than first quality, and at an actual loss to some-
body, mainly .for the want of knowledge or a little care
in the makings setting, &c., actually costing as high as the
best.

We do not intend to suggest any new process; we think,
with the writer of one of the statements herewith submitted,
that to make good butter, it is indispensable " that all the
utensils used should be kept perfectly clean and sweet." T|;ie
cream should be taken oft' and churned at the proper time, and
great care and judgment exercised in the salting. Some
persons seem to think that butter must be high salted to
keep, which is a great mistake, if it is otherwise proj)erly
made.

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 303

We would also caution those who put up butter in boxes or
kegs against using those made of soft wood, especially bass-
wood. A bass-wood cover to a box or keg will very soon spoil
the whole package ; and when the butter is to be kept, the
keg should be soaked in brine and wiped dry before putting in
the butter.

For the committee,

S. H. Reed, Chairman.

Mrs. Oliver Chapin, Leyden, 1st premium, . ^3 00

Mrs. Moses A. Barnard, Shelburne, 2d " .2 00

Mrs. Kimball H. Howes, Ash field, 3d " . 1 00

Mrs. Almon DeWolf, Deerfield, 4th » . 50

Bread.

The ladies who take plessure in the performance of house-
hold duties, furnished your committee with numerous speci-
mens of bread of a superior quality. Probably no department
of housewifery better bespeaks the well qualified housekeeper,
than is developed in the manufacture of good, light, sweet,
wholesome bread. And your committee take pleasure in
saying, that they believe the specimens exhibited to-day, as a
whole, exceed those of any former year. The number of
entries was twenty-two. Several specimens were unaccompa-
nied with written statements of the process of making. It is
presumed that the rules of the society are well known in regard
to premiums. Those specimens that had no accompanying
statement in conformity to the rules of the society, it is pre-
sumed were presented by ladies who wished to add to the
appearance of the show, and not intended for premiums.

The premiums were awarded as follows :

1st premium to Mrs. Peter Peck, of Shelburne, . . $2 00
2d » " Mrs. Oliva "Williams, of Sunderland, . 1 00

3d " " Mrs. Solomon Smead, of Shelburne, . 50

4th » " Mrs. Moses A. Barnard, « . 25

To Miss Augusta M. Taft, of Greenfield, a Miss of

304 FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

fourteen years, the committee recommend a gratuity

of fifty cents, for a beautiful specimen of bread, . $0 50

Asa Howlaxd, Chairman.
Greenfield, Sept. 28, 1852.

The statements below accompanied the specimens to which
premiums were awarded: —

First premium. — Take one pint of milk, and one pint of
boiling water, thicken with flour, and let it stand still until it
rises, which will take four or five hours, then add one quart of
warm milk, and flour enough to make it bread.

Second premium. — Made of home raised flour, risen with
potato and hop yeast, mixed with new milk, and baked in a
brick oven.

Third premium. — Take two cups of water, five spoonfuls of
milk, one teaspoonful of salt, stir in flour until it is of the con-
sistency of griddle cakes, then set it in a warm place until it
begins to rise, then put it in a cool place until you are ready
to bake, if it be one or two days. When ready to bake, add
another cup of warm water, (and if sour, dissolve one teaspoon-
ful of salaeratus in the water,) and stir in a little more flour,
set it in a warm place, and it will rise in about thirty minutes;
then mix your bread with warm milk, and bake as soon as it
rises, which will be very soon.

Fourth premium. — Take two cups of warm water, half a
cup of milk and one teaspoonful of salt, thicken with wheat
flour, set it in a kettle of warm water to rise it, which will be
in five or six hours, add one quart of warm milk, mix to a
thick batter, put it in pans and set in a warm place to rise;
bake half or three quarters of an hour.

Fruit.

The committee have been gratified with the exhibition of
fruits and vegetables. The apples are better than on any former
occasion. There are more varieties and better specimens.

Other fruits seem to the committee inferior to those of former

FRANKLIN SOCIETY. 305

years. The failure of the peach was anticipated. The severity
of the winter last past proved fatal to most of the peach buds,
and to a large portion of the trees in this county. A few hill
towns, as Shelburne, Conway, and Whately, escaped. A few
specimens were presented, which were very fine. The Messrs.
Wells, of Shelburne, exhibited several choice varieties of seed-
ling peaches. This we regard as by far the surest mode of
raising peaches in our climate. If we mistake not, it will be
found that seedlings suffered but little from the cold of last
winter, while budded trees were badly killed. Of pears there
were but few from the county. A beautiful specimen of Bart-
lett, raised on Mountain Ash, was presented by Mr. (I know
not who.) A choice collection was presented by his Honor,
Lieut. Gov. Cushman, from Roxbury. They were much ad-
mired, and it is to be hoped may prove a means of exciting
an increased interest in the cultivation of this excellent fruit.
Next to the apple, there is probably no fruit which we can
raise more easily than the pear.

Of plums, some fine specimens were presented by Mr. Field,
of Gill, who also exhibited some two varieties of pears. Of
quinces, there were but few, those were uncommonly large and
fair.

Fine specimens of native grapes were exhibited by Mr.
Gunn, of Montague, Mr. E. E. Robinson, of Sunderland, and
others. But the committee looked in vain for Isabellas or Ca-
tawbas, both of which are universal favorites, and may be:
produced here in perfection. The display of vegetables. \3i?^s
highly creditable to the contributors. Pumpkias,. squashes,
beets, turnips, carrots, cabbages, potatoes, and onions, have
attained to such enormous dimensions as to give evidence that,
however much others may have suffered fr^in. want of moist-
ure, they have been revelling in profusion^

Respectfully submitted by the eommittee^

R. Bv HuBBAiw),. Qiairumm..

D. and H. Wells, of Shelburne, apples, 1st premium, . $3 00

Orsamus O. Bardwell, " " 2d « . 2 00

Orlando Hawks, of Deerfield, « 3d " . 1 00

Henry M. Fisk, «• 4th, , 50

306

FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

C. K. Grennell, gratuity, apples,

George W. Carpenter, best specimen, less than three
varieties, .......

Alfred Wells,

Walter Bell, Jr., of Coleraine,
Clark Thompson, N. Salem, pears, 1st premium,
David R. Wait, " 2d «

S. W, Root, of Montague, quinces, .
John A. Andrews, of Shelburne, "
Roswell Field, of Gill, miscellaneous fruit,
R. B. Hubbard, fruit, ....
Samuel Stoughton, of Gill, fruit, .

J. J. Pierce,

M. H. Tyler, of Greenfield, .

Rev. J. Richardson, of Greenfield, fruit and flowers,

$1 00

00
75
50
00
50
00
50
00
00
00
75
50
00

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 307

HAMPSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Farms.

There is no art which can be compared in importance with
that of agriculture, for to it belongs the production of food for
man and animals ; on it depends the welfare and development
of the whole human species, and the riches of states. There
is no other art in which the application of correct principles
would be more productiv^e of beneficial results, or of greater
and more decided importance. Hence it appears quite unac-
countable that we vainly search for leading practical principles
in the writings of agriculturists. The methods employed in
the cultivation of land are different in the same districts. In
the same neighborhood, farms lying side by side, separated only
by titles of division — the soil of the same composition, with a
location equally favorable — are cultivated essentially different
from each other. When we inquire the causes of these differ-
ences, the answer is, mainly, that they depend on circum-
stances. No answer could show us more plainly the need of
agricultural knowledge, to ascertain what these circumstances
are. Each cultivator of the soil is attached to his own chosen
way, and plodding on in his long beaten path, turns neither to
the right hand nor to the left, to inquire of his neighbor in
what his^uccess depends. Whether he has made a judicious
disposition of his fertilizers, or what to give to each plant, that
the object in view may be attained ; whether he has deepened
and properly pulverized his soil, so as to give full play to all
the rootlets of his plants, that they may descend in any and
all directions in search of food sufficient for their full and per-
fect development. Now it seems to us that it must be self-
evident to every farmer that heat, light, moisture, and the
component parts of the atmosphere, are indispensable to the

308 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

growth of plants. Yet certain substances, if not contained in
the soil, must be supplied to it in the form of manure. The
question then arises, what does the soil contain ? and what are
the substances contained in the component parts of the ma-
nure ? Here we have to acknowledge our ignorance and inca-
pacity to judge of the defects of our soils, or even to prescribe
a systematic remedy, or to analyze and separate the parts of
either soil or manure. Until these points are satisfactorily de-
termined, a rational system of agriculture cannot exist. Now,
how shall these differences of cultivation on similar soils be
fully and satisfactorily reconciled ? What quantity of manure
shall w^e apply to obtain a full crop at the least expense ?
What fertilizers act upon the soil, and what upon the crops?
And how much is to be charged to the account for circum-
stances ? We do not hesitate to say, and fully believe, that
when the minds of the agriculturist, the chemist, and the phy-
siologist, are brought to bear upon this subject unitedly, for the
complete solution of these questions, then, and not till then,
will a beginning have been made. Let there be some reliable
facts, seme leading and well established principles, approved
and practised upon by scientific men, whose sole object is to
advance the farming interest by establishing a rational and
well founded system of agriculture. Then the farmer will be
enabled to prosecute his business by well tried and fixed rules,
in full confidence of success. The laws of nature better un-
derstood and obeyed, we shall then better understand how to
feed hungry plants, in order to obtain a full and perfect de-
velopment of all their parts, and to prepare our soils and com-
post our manures with reference to the particular crops. With
a system of well digested and practical rules, we shall be en-
abled to work with cheerfulness, and to secure more bountiful
returns.

The Hampshire Agricultural Society embraces a territory
that will not suffer in comparison with any other in the State,
of its extent. Its leading interests are agricultural. The farm-
ers are industrious, intelligent, and active, and are increasing
in wealth in two ways. One way is, to make two acres out
of one ; the other is, to add one to one, and thus make two.
The former is generally the most productive of good to the
community. Let us be understood. Some farmers in the

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 309

river towns have divided their farms with their sons, and erect-
ed a new set of buildings throughout; and have yet again sub-
divided with their sons, and again erected new buildings. It
is remarkable to find all these barns and granaries together, on
the old homestead, filled to their utmost capacity. This is
what is meant by making two or three acres out of one. It
shows, conclusively, the capacity of land under a high and
judicious system of cultivation. But adding acre to acre, by
purchase, beyond a suitable sized farm, adapted to its owner's
circumstances, seldom, if ever, contributes much knowledge of
agriculture. Here, the leading object seems to be to nhulliply
acres — to enlarge the area of territory — to grasp all the eye can
see or the purse can reach. These are the farms on which are
found, generally, dilapidated buildings ; barns and granaries
but scantily filled. The owner finds neither time to feed his
plants or his cattle. And how can he ? His spears are few
and far between, and his cattle must count the cost as they
eat.

There were five farms entered for premium, viz. : three in
Hadley, one in South Deerfield, and one in Belchertown.
Your committee visited all of them, on or about the first of
July, and four of them on the first of September.

Your committee feel a great delicacy in awarding only two
premiums, among so many deserving competitors. After ma-
ture consideration, we have awarded the first premium, of ^20,
,to Linus Green, of Hadley; and the second premium, of $12,
to Moses Stebbins, of Deerfield.

Mr. Green's farm is situated in the east part of Hadley, near
the west line of Amherst. It is in the form of a large basin,
with its northern and western sides a little elevated, and its
southern a little depressed. Nature seems to have been more
lavish of her gifts in the formation of this farm, than in any
other, probably, of its size, within the limits of the society,
and its owner has been shrewd enough to appreciate and fully
carry out the plan and design of nature. He has so divided
the farm as to have nearly all his tillage land and pasturing on
the elevated parts, and his meadow ground near the centre of
the basin. Thus laid out, it is utterly impossible for any fertil-
izing matter once put upon the farm to escape, before it is
completely exhausted. Its tendency is from the circumference

310 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

to the centre, and from the centre to its lowest depressed side.
No bushes venture so much as to claim acquaintance with the
owner. As for stunaps, both great and small, if they ever had
a preemption right of terra firma, that right is well nigh extin-
guished ; of which the stump fences give unmistakable proof.
For a more particular account of this farm and its crops, see
Mr. Green's statement, annexed.

Mr. Stebbins's farm is situated in Deerfield, one mile north
of Sunderland Bridge, between Mt. Sugar Loaf and the Con-
necticut River, and not unlike other portions of the Connecti-
cut Valley, beautiful in the extreme. This farm is a very little
undulating, from the mountain to the river; of a deep alluvial
soil, resting on a subsoil of gravel, with the exception of some
ten acres. This part is of a light sandy texture, and has been
so much renovated by an admixture of clay, as to produce
most luxuriant crops. This farm is easy of access, agreeable
in form, and its owner keeps it in systematic order. Bushes
come not within his enclosure ; and if, perchance, some strag-
gler should venture to root and ground himself, he has leave of
absence on a very short acquaintance. There are no unpro-
ductive pieces, no marshy or unprofitable spots, simply because
its owner cannot afford to cultivate them for nothing. It is
{multum in parvo) a great deal in a small compass; a hundred
acre farm contained in thirty -five acres. It is all farm.

For a more particular account of this farm and its products,
see the annexed statement of Mr. Stebbins.

R. T. Wheelock, Chairman.

Linus Greenes Statement.

My farm contains one hundred acres, and is situated in
Hadley. I came in possession of sixty acres of it twenty-five
years ago, and have since enlarged the iTumber of acres by
purchase. My object, as a farmer, has been twofold; to raise
full crops, and to increase the productiveness of my ^ farm.
Deep ploughing is my favorite method. My habit is to plough
eight or nine inches deep, with three yokes of oxen. The whole
farm contains not half an acre that I have not turned over with
the plough. I compost all my manure with Whately lime, for
top-dressing, and plough in my manure. I am accustomed to

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

311

mix redtop and herds-grass, in the proportion of one peck of
the former to one-half bushel of the latter, on moist land.
Mixing seed-corn I have found advantageous. All my land
has been kept in a high state of cultivation, by judicious rota-
tion of crops. It is kept clear of bushes and weeds. In some
years, I have employed more labor than during the past season.
All the work on the farm, this year, was performed by myself
and two boys, one 17 and the other 15 years old. We mowed
thirty-two acres, which yielded sixty tons of good hay. Eight
acres we planted with corn, seven with oats, five with rye, and
we pastured the remaining forty acres.

PRODUCTS,

65 tons of hay, at $15,
497I- bushels of corn, 75 cents,
353^ « « oats, 50 «

60 « " rye, 75 "

Pasturage of 15 horned cattle, 26 weeks
33^ cents each, .
" " 75 sheep, 58 cents, .

Increase in value of sheep,

50 bushels potatoes, 33^ cents,

25 " turnips, 25 cents,

75 " winter apples, 33^ cents,
150 lbs. butter, ....
150 lbs. cheese, ....
375 loads of compost manure,
100 " " barnyard «

EXPENSES.

My labor, 225 days, at $1, .

Boy's " 135 " « 75 cents, .

Boy's " 208 « « 50 «

Grass seed, .....
1|- bushels seed corn, $1, .
16 « « oats, 50 cents, .

4 « " rye, 75 "

3 " " potatoes, 50 cents,

375 loads compost manure, .

100 " barnyard «

. $975

373

176

150

100

100 00

. $225

101

104

8 00

375

100

$2,421 29

312 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

Interest on land, $50 per acre, . . $360 00
Taxes, 57 00

$1,351 25

Net profit, $1,070 04

Moses Slebhins's Statement.

In compliance with the rules of our society, I herewith trans-
mit a statement of the management and products of the farm
which I offer for a premium. This farm contains 35 acres of
land, ten acres of which is a light, sandy soil, totally neglected
previous to the year 1838. I then entertained the idea that
such soils would leach all the manure out if any was applied.
It had been kept for buckwheat, or occasionally a part of it
sowed to rye, the product of which was from six to eight bush-
els per acre.

In the spring of 1838 I resolved on an improvement of my
farm. Instead of summering my manure in my yards, to blow
off in the atmosphere, and then put the chaff into the hill for
corn and potatoes, I hauled it out in its green state, and spread
at the rate of 25 loads per acre, with 200 lbs. of plaster, and
ploughed it in, for corn. I made about 100 loads of manure
in one year. The produce of my farm at that time, previous
to 1838, was about 20 tons of hay, from 150 to 500 bushels of
corn, 200 bushels of bats, 30 of rye, and 50 of potatoes. I
have pursued a regular rotation of crops on most of this land
since 1838, with corn, oats, and grass. AH of this land, except-
ing two acres, comes under the plough once in from three to
six years, when I plant two years in succession, manuring as
before mentioned, then sow to oats, and seed to grass for
mowing. I then sowed one peck of herds-grass to ten pounds
of clover seed per acre. As I pursued this system my crops
increased in quantity and quality, and my lands improved at
the same time. As I improved my lands I have substituted
corn and wheat for rye, and barley for oats ; and instead of
one peck of herds-grass seed to 10 lbs. of clover seed per acre,
I now sow from' three pecks to one bushel of herds-grass seed
per acre, always having clover enough, and more than I want
for hay, in the soil. It has been my object for the last ten or
twelve years to bring all my land into as even a state of culti-

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 313

vatioii as possible. And this year the best corn which I raised
was on land which in 1838 would not produce ten bushels of
rye per acre, and besides, it was planted to corn in 1851. I
ploughed and subsoiled the land, then spread 25 loads of
straw manure and 200 lbs. of plaster per acre, and harrowed
well ; planted three feet by three feet, with Canada corn, hoed
four times, and harvested 240 bushels of ears of corn from one
acre; and from one square rod of ground I harvested 34 quarts
of shelled corn. I will recommend Messrs. Prouty & Mears's
Michigan, or double plough, for green sward, with the C sub-
soil plough to follow. I subsoiled a part of another field,
manuring the whole field equally well, and I could see a great
difference in the corn, the subsoiled portion of the field being
much the best. Salt is recommended as a good application
for much of our soil. I have made some trial of it for wheat
and grass, with good results. For wheat I sow from five to
seven bushels per acre ; sow with the wheat. For grass about
the same quantity; sow in the fall.

The produce of my farm in 1851 was estimated as follows,
viz.: hay, 55 tons; barley, 200 bushels: wheat, 75 bushels;
corn, 600 bushels ; potatoes, 50 bushels.

This year my crops, in common with others, have suffered
with the extreme drought, especially my grass and a part of
my corn, it being on a light, sandy soil.

The produce this year we estimated about as follows, viz.: —

Hay, 46 tons, $12 per ton,
Barley, 130 bushels, at 75 cents.
Wheat, 14 « « 8 shillings.
Corn, 700 " " 75 cents.
Corn fodder, 30 tons, at $5 per ton.
Straw, 4 " "5 «

Potatoes, 150 bushels, at 40 cents.
Apples, 150 " « 121 u

$552 00
97 50
18 67
525 00
150 00
20 00
60 00
18 75

L,441 92

My expenses for the present year, for labor, outlays

on my farm, and interest on the 35 acres, at the

market value, are about as follows : —

Interest on land, value $3,000, . . . $180 00

Taxes on the same, . . . . . 25 00

314

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

112

Two hands, eight months, at $14 per mo., $224 00
One « four " « 12

2,500 lbs. plaster,
Grass seed, ....

50 Bushels salt, at 40 cents, .
150 " ashes, at 15 cents, .

7 Tons hay, at $10 per ton, .
150 Bushels corn, at 75 cents per bushel,

3 Tons straw, at $5 per ton,

$737 00

Leaving a balance in favor of the farm, of . . $704 92
besides the increase in the value of the farm, which I consider
equal to my labor on the farm.

In connection with this 35 acres, I have 75 acres of pastur-
ing, which I have improved very much in value, by the use of
plaster. There is many an old and worn out pasture which
may be renovated by this cheap and easy application. I have
an orchard, set in 1850, of 74 trees, on a piece of pasture land,
without any manure, making free use of lime, salt and plaster.
The trees are very thrifty, coming forward quite as fast as de-
sirable.

We are making now, 325 loads of manure annually. I draw
some 75 loads of earth into my yards to absorb the liquid ma-
nures, which I use for a top-dressing for corn and grass.

South Deerfield, Oct. 20, 1852.

Reclaimed Meadoav Lands.

For the consideration of the committee on reclaimed mea-
dow lands, four pieces of this description "were presented, all
of which showed marks of improvement that were alike com-
mendable to the skill of their cultivators, and indicative of
farther eflbrts on the part of farmers in our region, in this
branch of agriculture. Indeed, the stalwart lords of the soil
are waking up to a sense of the importance of this subject,
and it is with much joy that we hail the approach of the time,
when all low boggy lands that are scattered as eye-sores here

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 315

and there over the county; where now the rank thistle, and
coarse swampy grass are nodding in the wind, shall be cleared
of the superabundance of vegetable growth — their rich soil
turned over by the ploughshare's bright edge, and made to give
life to, and nourish large fields of waving maize and flowing
grain. Our farmers are beginning to see that these waste por-
tions of their lands, from which, heretofore, no profit has been
realized, may be made to yield a rich reward for labor spent in
their improvement ; and with them to be convinced of the
practicality of a thing, is but father of the consequent and
corresponding action.

The proof of this remark may be demonstrated by the evi-
dence of one's senses, as he rides leisurely along after his own
steady mare, and not behind the fierce iron horse, through the
villages and back parts of the large towns in our vicinity. The
sturdy ploughman has sworn entire and speedy destruction to
all noisome swamps, where pools of stagnant water collect,
that load the surrounding air with poisonous vapors ; and,
consequently, St. Patrick-like, to the vile snakes and frogs with
which they are filled. The benefits of such improvements are
not seen in the increase of the farmer's wealth alone, but they
are found, too, in the more healthy, physical and moral devel-
opment of the community around. For a more explicit state-
ment of these benefits, we refer you to the valuable report of
Prof. W. C. Fowler, the last year's chairman of the committee
on reclaimed meadow lands. We will only remark, that man's
highest wealth docs not consist in the number of dollars with
which his pocket-book is lined, nor yet in the broad expanse
of his paternal acres ; there is a wealth of intellect — a wealth
of soul, compared with which the wealth that money can give
dwindles into insignificance, and deserves not the name.

It would be curious and instructive, to trace out the inti-
mate connection that exists between the cultivation of the
useful, as well as the more ornamental and scientific arts of
husbandry, and the greater expansion of the intellect and the
heart, that must necessarily be the result of such a direction of
one's energies. It was in consequence of such a union, that a
Coleman, and a Downing — men who were ever quick to see?
and keenly alive to all of beauty Nature and her works show

316 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

forth — were led to devote much labor and earnest thought to
the improvement, in this respect, of the rural districts in New
England.

They, aside from a consideration of the pecuniary benefits
which works of improvement might confer, would not tolerate,
in their vicinity, a marshy fen, that breeded swarms of summer
flies, and filled the air with the seeds of pestilence and death,
for the reason that the appreciation of the beautiful, and a
taste for what is grand in natural scenes of the community
around, would be in a manner perverted, by the daily sight of
such foul spots on Nature's fair vesture.

But we will not farther tread the flowery fields of philosophy,
lest we should find ourselves irrecoverably lost in their mazy
paths; and so it only remains to announce who were the suc-
cessful competitors for your premiums. John A. Morton, of
Hadley, in consideration of the improvements on a plat of
ground presented by him, was awarded the first premium, of
ten dollars; and Edmund Hobart, of Amherst, drew six dollars
for his successful efforts in reclaiming swampy land. State-
ments of their work they have prepared, and they will accom-
pany this report. As your committee were limited to the be-
stowal of only two rewards, of course the remaining entries
must be passed over into oblivion.

S. Powers, Chairman.

John A. Morton^s Statement.

The piece of meadow land, to which I ask your attention,
contains about two and a half acres. The soil, a part of it,
was a light peat mud, a part of it bearing on the clay, or bear-
ing a clayey subsoil. I commenced working upon it in August,
1848. It was covered with bogs, brush, and coarse water grass,
and consequently was of little or no value. >My first operation
was to ditch it. I cut a ditch on three sides, so as to drain off
the water. I then cut and burnt off the brush, and commeijced
work with a heavy meadow plough, two yoke of oxen, bog hoe
and ax, and turned it well over, ploughing about one-third acre
per day. The next May I dragged it thoroughly with a heavy
drag, and planted the peat with potatoes, and the clay or hard

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 317

pan with corn; manured in the hill with compost manure.
Had a fair crop of potatoes, and thirty bushels of corn to the
acre. The next spring, ploughed in ten loads of green stable
manure to the acre, on the clay, and planted the whole to corn,
manuring it all in the hill, which was a good crop, averaging
about thirty-five bushels per acre. In the spring of 1851, I
sowed it to oats and twelve pounds of herds-grass, with two
pounds of northern clover, to the acre. Oats, a good crop. I
mowed it the present season, cut 1^ tons to the acre. But
owing to the dryness of the summer, the clayey part was much
injured by the drought. I think the four crops have much more
than paid for the labor, seed and manure. The land, I con-
sider worth $50 per acre ; which, four years ago, was nearly
woi'thless.

Hadley, Oct. 28, 1852.

Edmund Hobarfs Statement.

Gentlemen, — The piece of meadow land which I offer for
premium, contains about two acres. It is surrounded with
hills. From my earliest recollection it has been a worthless
piece of ground, producing nothing of value. It came into
my possession nine years ago. I had always considered it a
blot upon the farm, and I was determined to reclaim it, if pos-
sible. Considering it of the first importance in reclaiming
meadow land, to get rid of the water, I cut a ditch around the
whole, taking off the springs which came out of the surround-
ing hills. I then cut one through the centre, the two laying
the piece nearly dry. In the fall of 1848, it being very dry, I
commenced clearing the surface of bogs, brush, roots, &c., with
which it was completely covered, taking off about 100 cart
loads of the same. I then covered the surface to the depth of
about two inches, with loam from the surrounding hills, and
seeded thereon herds-grass, redtop and clover. It being late in
the season, when seeded, and having put on no manure for a
top-dressing, my first crop of grass was light. The next season
1 applied a top-dressing of barnyard manure with wonderful
success, cutting two tons or more of good hay to the acre.
Since then my crops of hay on the same have been remarkably
good, having the past season cut nearly four tons. I now

318 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

consider it one of the most profitable pieces of land on my
farm, producing the greatest crops with the least expense.

EXPENSES OF RECLAIMING.

90 Rods of drain, at 12| cents, ,

Clearing away roots, bogs, &c., .
200 Loads of loam, and carting.

Seeding,

One year's interest on outlay,

RESULT.

100 Loads of muck, .

2 Acres, worth $150 per acre.

811

32 00

S69

$25

300

$73 40

325 00

Net gain, $281 60

Grain Crops.

Twenty-one entries were made : two of wheat, seven of rye,
seven of Indian corn, two of oats, two of broomcorn and one
of barley.

Your committee would remark that the few attempts which
have been made in this region, at wheat growing the past
season, have been eminently successful. We have examined
the crops of Joseph Adams & Sons, and of John A. Morton,
both while growing in the field, and since harvested, and we
have the best possible means of knowing that the bread, bis-
cuit, and pastry made from their wheat cannot be beaten.
Particular attention is asked to the accompanying statements
of these gentlemen.

Of the seven entries of rye crops, two were accompanied
with properly attested statements. These statements, one by
Thomas Hastings, and the other by W. E. and S. S. Dickin-
son, are presented herewith. With regard to the corn crop,
we invite special attention to the statements of Royal W,
Smith and William P. Dickinson, because we regard them as

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 319

highly instructive. These gentlemen, seem to us, not to have
engaged in the foolish strife of seeing how much corn they
could possibly take from a single acre, without regard to the
economy of the operation, but to have cultivated with a
wise reference to the profits. Others, within our knowledge,
have raised good crops at too great a cost : " have paid too
dear for the whistle." It signifies nothing to raise a hundred
bushels of corn on an acre, at the expense of half the manure
on a farm. These men have raised from 50 to 90 bushels to
the acre on large fields and at a small cost. For this we com-
mend them, and we hope others will profit by their example.
Mr. Moses C. Porter, of Hatfield, failed to comply, in all re-
spects, with the society's rules, and could not therefore com-
pete for the premium. His statement is not duly attested ;
and yet, from our personal acquaintance with him, knowing
him, as we do, to be a gentleman of strict integrity, we have
implicit confidence in every word which he states, except that
after due allowance for shrinkage, we believe his corn would
hold out just about 100 bushels but not more. We believe
that Mr. Porter has cleared more than fifty dollars from that acre
this year. Still we would guard ourselves and others against
wild conclusions with regard to the profits of corn growing.
It must be remembered, that in the growth of this crop, he has
used up a rich, deep turf, such as will not accumulate on his
land again for many years, and that in the mean time he must
either be content with less crops, or go to a great expense for
manure, and that in either case the profits must be diminished.
We, however, annex his statement, as one which we consider
highly instructive.

In addition to the foregoing, we would state, that Mr. Elijah
Boltwood has this year raised an uncommonly fine crop of
corn. He has failed to comply with the society's requirement
of a written report. We examined the crop in September.
The growth was great, and was very nearly equal throughout
the field. He has since had a survey of an acre ; has harvest-
ed and measured the corn of that acre, and found it to be 180
bushels of ears, equivalent, as he supposes, to 90 bushels of
dry shelled corn.

J. A. Nash, Chairman.

320

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

Joseph Adams Sf Sons' Statement.

The land on which our wheat grew, is in Hadley, and con-
tains one acre. ' The soil is new and a sandy loam. The
wood was cut off in the winter of 1851, and consisted of hard
and soft pine, with an undergrowth of maple. In June, 1852,
the land was burned over and ploughed once, with a digger,
which I prefer to the common plough. My reasons are three,
viz.: The digger can be tended more easily by one man, and a
single pair of oxen is a sufficient team. The digger will pul-
verize the soil, among stumps and roots where the plough will
not work. And it does not invert the soil, while it allows
the ashes to remain near the surface, which is a benefit to
the roots of the grain. We applied no manure, but harrowed
in August, and again ploughed September 12th. A few days
elapsed, and we sowed at the rate of one bushel and a half to
the acre. Our seed was Canada Flint Wheat that had been,
for twelve hours, soaked in brine, and then rolled with lime.

We harvested our crop on the 20th of July, 1852, and thresh-
ed it in August. Our yield was forty bushels, three pecks, and
two quarts, measured by the statute rate of sixty pounds to
the bushel. In the opinion of the surveyor, the quantity of
wheat was less by two bushels, on account of stumps, but of
this we make no account.

VALUE OF CROP.

40f| Bushels, at $1 25 per bushel,
1| Tons straw, at $5 per ton,

EXPENSES.

Ploughing and harrowing,

Clearing, .

Seed,

Salt, lime, and sowing,

Harvesting,

Threshing,

Interest on value of land.

$51

2 25

$58 52

27 75

Net profit on one acre,

$30 77

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

321

John A. Morton'' s Statement.

The wheat crop I offer for premium, and which your com-
mittee inspected, was grown, on one acre and thirteen rods of
ground. The soil was gravelly. The land was lightly manured
a year ago last spring, and a part of it put to tobacco and a
part to potatoes, which was a good crop. After these crops
were taken off, the land was ploughed once, and five loads of
compost manure spread on the poorest part of the land, and
sowed with two bushels of seed, about the 20th of September.
The seed was first soaked in brine, then rolled in lime. Land
valued at $50 per acre. Raised 33 bushels of wheat, weighing
62 lbs. per bushel.

VALUE OF CROP.

33 Bushels, at $1 50 per bushel, at which price I sold

$58 00

a part of it,

. $49 50

Straw, ......

8 50

EXPENSE.

For Ploughing, ....

. $1 25

" Seed, salt, and lime, .

3 00

" Sowing and harrowing.

1 00

" Harvesting and threshing, .

6 50

" Interest on land,

3 00

14 75

Net gain,

Hadley, Oct. 27, 1852.

. $43 ?5

Tliomas Hastings's Statement.

The land on which my rye was grown, was pasture, some-
what stony. Have pastured it four or five years. I ploughed
in June, 1851, and in August dragged and cross-ploughed,
again dragged, and in October sowed it. 1 used no manure.
The rye was gathered in July, 1852, and yielded 39 bushels
and 53 lbs., by weight, at 56 lbs. per bushel.

VALUE OF CROP.

39 Bushels 53 lbs., at 92 cents per bushel,
1|^ Tons straw, at $6 per ton, .

$36 73

7 50

$44 23

822

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

EXPENSE.

For

one bushel seed,

$0 92

((

Ploughing, dragging and sowing,

5 00

Harvesting, ....

2 00

Threshing,

3 50

((

Interest of land, worth $40,

2 40

Net profit.

S13 82
$30 41

W. E. Sf S. S. Dickinson's Statement.

The land on which our rye was grown was new, and con-
tains one acre. The wood was cut off in the spring of 1851,
and in September following, we burned the brush, bushes, &c.
The soil is a dark loam, rather wet, and was not manured.
We sowed white rye, and grass seed, broadcast, in October,
and immediately harrowed the surface. We used one bushel
of rye and one peck of herds-grass to the acre. We harvested
the crop of rye about the middle of July, 1852, and had forty
bushels, three pecks and three quarts, at 56 lbs. per bushel.

VALUE OF CROP.

40f I Bushels, at 80 cents per bushel.

3 2
1 3

Tons straw, at $6 per ton.

EXPENSE.

For Seed, . , . .
" Sowing and harrowing,
" Harvesting,
" Threshing and cleaning,
" Interest on land, .

$32

2 50

2 40

$43 17

12 20

Net gain.

$30 97

R. Wales Smith'' s Statement.

The crop of corn which I offer for premium, was raised in
Hadley, on one acre of loamy soil. The lot was in grass, until
November, 1851, when I ploughed eight inches deep. Last

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

323

spring I harrowed, and put on five loads of barnyard manure,
which I harrowed in. I planted about the 18th of May, and
then manured in the hill, with ten loads of compost, made of
five loads of yard manure, ten bushels of lime, and 150 lbs. of
plaster. I hoed three times. About the 15th of September
the corn was cut and stacked in the field. It was harvested
early in October, and the yield was 180| bushels in the ear,
weighing S5 lbs. to the bushel.

VALUE OF CROP.

The crop, equal to 90 bushels, shelled, at 75 cents

per bushel, $67 50

Fodder, two tons, 10 00

EXPENSES.

Ploughing, . . . •

$2 50

Harrowing,

1 00

Seed, one peck, .

Manure, fifteen loads.

15 00

Planting and hoeing, .

5 00

Cutting and stacking.

2 00

Harvesting, . .

5 00

Threshing,

1 50

Interest on land.

3 50

$77 50

35 75

Net profit on one acre,

$41 75

William P. Dickinson'' s Statement.
I herewith send you a statement of one acre of Indian corn.
This acre is part of a field of eight acres which has been pas-
tured a number of years, and had become cold and mossy. In
the fall of 1851 I ploughed it seven inches deep, and sent a
sample of it to Prof. Norton, to analyze. He found it very de-
ficient in lime, chlorine and sulphuric acid, and advised an ap-
plication of lime, plaster and salt. Last spring I spread and
harrowed in eight loads of compost manure to the acre, and
made a mixture of four parts lime, one of plaster, one and one-
half pounds of salt to the acre, and put a handful of the mix-
ture in each hill, at planting. It was hoed twice, and cut up

324

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

the last of September. I have just husked one acre of it, as
measured by Mr. Williams, which has yielded one hundred and
twenty-six and one-half bushels of ears, or sixty-three and one-
fourth bushels of corn. (I had a few beans where the corn
was missing.) The following is a statement of the expense of
cultivation :

Ploughing, . . . . . .

. $2 00

Manure, ......

8 00

Planting, ......

1 50

Seed and hoeing, ....

2 25

Cutting and husking, ....

4 00

Cr. by 63^ bushels corn, at 75 cents, .

. $47 43

" Stalks,

7 00

Leaving a profit of
Hadley, Oct. 25, 1852.

$17 75

54 43

§36 68

Moses C. Porter^ s Statement

The following is a statement respecting one acre of Indian
corn raised by me the summer of 1852, on sward land.

COST OF LABOR.

Ploughing, harrowing and rolling.

Five loads of manure, .....

Putting manure in the hole, and planting,
Eight bushels of ashes applied after first hoeing,
Hoeing, four times, ......

Cutting and stacking, .....

Harvesting, .......

Number of bushels of corn raised.

Tons of fodder,

$4 50

7 50

3 00

1 80

7 00

2 50

7 00

$33 30

1121

Root Crops.

There have been two entries of potato crops, four of carrots,
and one of onions.

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 325

The small number of entries of these important crops is
probably owing, in part, to the fact that this is the first time a
premium has been offered on any of them by this society, and
in part, to the small number and amount of premiums offered.
The committee, however, entertain the hope that the society
will continue to stimulate and encourage this branch of agri-
culture. It may be doubted whether any premiums paid by
agricultural societies do in fact benefit the community more
than those offered on crops, to be accompanied by a plain
statement describing the manner of raising the crops, so that
others may follow the example.

The premium of $5 for the best acre of potatoes, we have
awarded to Mr. James Cowles, of Amherst, whose statement is
appended ; as is also that of Mr. W. P. Dickinson, of Hadley,
whose experiments, intelligently conducted and clearly stated,
seem too valuable to be lost, although we have no piemium at
our disposal to award him. The fact mentioned by him of the
greater productiveness of potatoes grown from seed brought
from a distance, agrees fully with the experiments of some of
the committee.

The premium of $3 for the best quarter acre of carrots has
been awarded to Messrs. Nathaniel and Brainard Smith, of
Sunderland.

As the carrot is but little cultivated in this vicinity — though
it is evidently growing in favor — and is yet, we believe, to be
more correctly valued, and to become an important crop, we
have collected a few facts and opinions respecting their pro-
ductiveness, the manure used, the comparative cost of their
cultivation, and their comparative value as food for animals,
from the Transactions of the Agricultural Societies of Massa-
chusetts for 1851 : —

Lyman Mason, of Beverly, on 42 rods of land, manured at
the rate of six cords, one-half leached ashes, the other barn
manure, raised 260 bushels, being 992 bushels per acre.

Samuel Warner, of Hampden county, on one-fourth acre,
manured with four loads of manure, (kind not stated,) raised
237 bushels, or 948 bushels per acre.

Jonathan Carlisle, also of Hampden county, on one acre of
light, sandy land, manured with 5^- cords of compost, raised
538 bushels.

326 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

Aaron Budding, of Leydcn, on half an acre, manured with
fifteen loads of stable manure, raised 384 bushels, or 768 bush-
els per acre.

The average product, per acre, of the crops entered for the
premium of this society, the present year, is 753 bushels.

We have noticed in the document before named, several
instances of the successful cultivation of this crop on the same
land for several years in succession, among which is that of
John W. Lincoln, of Worcester, who has raised them on the
same land for five consecutive years.

In regard to the labor of raising them, Jonathan Copeland,
of West Bridgewater, thinks it requires about the same to
raise one-fourth acre of carrots as one acre of corn.

In regard to the value of carrots as food for animals, the
editor of the Plough, Loom, and Anvil, says, in June, 1852 : — >
" We have had twenty communications from various sources,
all of which concur in saying that a peck of carrots will, with
the same quantity of hay, keep working horses in as good con-
dition, and many say better, than a peck of oats, or that a peck
of carrots and a peck of oats are equal to half a bushel of oats."

The Germantown Telegraph says, that " Carrots not only
possess fattening properties equal to oats, taking bushel for
bushel, but it secures to the horse, in winter, fine health, a
loose skin and a glossy coat of hair, which it is impossible to
produce except by the use of the carrot."

John W. Lincoln, of Worcester, states from his own expe-
rience, of several years, that the use of carrots for cattle or
swine is not less beneficial than for horses.

If the above opinions are correct it is obvious that an acre
of carrots will produce a far greater amount of feed than an
acre of oats, for on the same quantity of land that produces 40
bushels of oats from 500 to 1,000 of carrots may be grown.

The crop of onions, although very superior, did not cover
sufficient land to comply with the rules of the society.

Samuel Nash, Chairmcm.

James Cowles's Statement.

I raised 75 bushels of Peach blow potatoes, the past season,
on 45 rods of dark, loamy soil, on which I spread and ploughed

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

327

in nine cart loads of horse manure, putting hog manure, three
loads in the hill, with a small quantity of plaster and ashes.
Last year I raised 70 bushels from the same land.

On the remaining 115 rods, which was plain, sandy land, I
put eight loads of coarse manure from the barnyard in the
hills, hoed twice only. The yield was 133 bushels, making in
all 208 bushels from the acre.

Amherst, Nov., 1852.

W. P. Dickinson's Statement.

The land upon which my potatoes grew was a worn piece
of stubble ground. Early in May I ploughed in thirteen loads
of coarse manure, and planted it soon after, with a little " shell
lime" in each hill. About three-quarters of it was planted
with Carters, the other quarter Merinos.

Part of the Carters were some I raised the previous year,
part was seed obtained from Worthington, part was planted
with small potatoes, part with large, part large and small to-
gether.

As the result of these experiments I found that the seed
from Worthington yielded just double to that planted with my
own seed, (although that came from the hills one year ago,)
and also that they yielded the most where large and small
were planted together, although not' quite as large as where
the seed was all large. There was also a difference in favor of
the rows where I put lime. The following is the expense of
cultivation : —

Manure, .

Ploughing,

Seed,

Planting and hoeing.

Harvesting,

Cr. by 87 bushels Carters, 50c.,
« 40 « Merinos, 25c,

$12 00
1 50
4 00

3 00

4 00

$43 50
10 00

$24 50

53 50

Balance,
Hadley, Oct. 25, 1852.

$29 00

328

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

N. and B. Smiili's Statement.

Our crop of carrots was raised on a quarter of an acre of land
upon which broomcorn has been raised for ten or twelve years
past. About the 1st of May, five or six loads of stable and
yard manure were ploughed in. The land was then subsoiled,
and fruit trees were set upon it eighteen by twenty feet apart.
About the 1st of June, the piece was cultivated, harrowed,
raked and sowed, with Willis's patent seed sower. The crop
was harvested about the middle of November, measuring 194
bushels, weighing 48|^ lbs. per bushel.

Value of crop at 33c. per bushel, .... $64 02

Lease of land,

Manure, ....

Ploughing and subsoiling,

Sowing and seedy

Preparing ground for sowing.

Hoeing and weeding.

Transplanting,

Harvesting,

26 37

Cl,

. $4 00

6 00

10 00

4 00

Net gain,
Sunderland, Nov., 1852.

$37 65

Butter.

As a business of profit, butter making is one of the most
lucrative that farmers in this section of country can engage in.
Butter not only commands a high price in proportion to the
actual cost of making, but always finds a rfeady market. . Un-
like most kinds of produce, that have a regular market season,
and must be carried to a distance often to reach a market, this
finds a ready sale at our own doors, at all seasons of the year.
Many individuals of limited means, who own little, if any
land, cannot conveniently keep cows, and are obliged to buy
both butter and milk, for their tables. There are a class of
such persons in every town, who buy and pay cash for their

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 329

butter. It also finds a ready market at all our country stores
and groceries, in exchange for cash, or goods ; so that butter
never fails of finding a ready market. Those individuals who
buy butter for their tables, understand well what we mean
when we say that butter is a "cash article."

They know how much it costs to supply their families with
butter for a single season, and that it is no mean item in their
bill of yearly expenses, this "butter bill," especially when butter
is from one shilling to twenty-five cents per pound. A young
couple recently married, and who had just begun housekeep-
ing, were asked how they liked the matrimonial state. " First
rate," answered John, "only it costs almost everything for' but-
ter!'^ But we have extended these preliminary remarks farther
than we intended, and will now hasten to give the statistical
items of this report.

Whole number of entries, thirty. Twenty-nine lots con-
tained upwards of ten pounds each. Only a single sample
contained less than ten pounds. The whole display was one
of the richest we ever saw, in the butter line ; and as we re-
ceived parcel after parcel of the "yellow lumps," we thought
how much more desirable and beautiful was such an exhibi-
tion, than the finest collection of "yellow lumps" ever thrown
to the surface from the mines of California.

Some of the fairest looking and best prepared parcels, beau-
tifully stamped and ornamented, we were obliged to reject as
unworthy of a premium, on account of being too salt, and
savoring a little of "old age." Those who present butter for
a premium, should always bring to the tables newly made
butter, if they have any desire of obtaining it. But little
attention is given to specimens, (let them be prepared with
the nicest taste as to external contour,) if they are over salted,
and flavored by standing in pine tubs, or have been kept for
too great a length of time.

Uepectfully submitted,

David Rice, Chairman.
Leverett, Oct. 27, 1852.
42

330 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

Fruit Trees.

********

In the growing of fruit trees, two things are mainly import-
ant ; the Jirst is to secure healthy stocks ; the second, good
fruit. It is of as great importance to begin right in this as in
any other enterprise. A mistake here, will carry defeat through
every subsequent part of the work. It needs no argument to
prove that the future beauty, health, fruitfulness and longevity
of the tree, depends essentially upon the quality of the seed
from which it springs. In this particular there has been almost
entire neglect. No farmer would take his seed corn from a
heap of threshed corn, of which there had been so selection of
ears. But, in planting a nursery the usual practice has been,
to go where apples are made into cider, and obtain a quantity
of pomace, some of which is from apples of the worst quality,
or only half ripe, or from old, decayed, ill-shaped and sickly
trees. One might as well expect that the generous courser
could be bred from the foundered jade, as that good trees
could be grown from such seeds.

And where this is known, very few are found willing to pay
it much regard. Most people are for doing things in the
cheapest way. The nursery man is aware, that if he should
be at the necessary outlay in procuring his seeds from the best
fruit, of the most healthy trees, that he could not sell his trees
so as to make himself whole — that his next neighbor, who ob-
tains his seed with almost no expense, would undersell him
in the market. To give a case in point. In one of our cities,
not long since, a very large quantity of seedling trees, from
common pomace, and which were as miserable in all respects
as trees could be, were brought into market and sold for eight
cents a piece, by the thousand. Very fortunately, they almost
all died from ill treatment. When at the same time, well
worked, healthy trees, of the first quality, might have been
bought in the immediate neighborhood, for twelve and a half
cents a piece. But most purchasers never think of asking a
single question about the origin of the trees they buy. The
miserable effects of this practice are manifested in every kind
of trees, and especially in the peach tree. Everywhere we
hear the complaint that peach trees are sickly ; that they sel-

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 331

dom bear delicious fruit ; and that in a few years they decay and
die ; and this is just what might be expected from the manner
in which they are grown. It is from these sickly, decaying,
miserable bearers that peach stones are collected for new trees.
But if it is a law of nature, that like produces like, we may
know before hand what sort of trees we shall have. Here is
much room for reform. In those instances in which individ-
uals have actually engaged in it, it is found by actual experi-
ment that in many localities peach trees may be kept in a
healthy and bearing state for fifteen or twenty years. Too
much attention cannot be paid in the selection of such seeds
as are fit for stocks. The old custom of taking such seeds as
first come to hand, must be abandoned. And we are happy
to state, that this subject is beginning to be appreciated as it
ought by some of our best nursery men, whose example, it is
hoped, will soon be followed by all.

After securing healthy stocks, the next object is to have
good and delicious fruit. The finest trees which produce no
fruit, or that which is not fit for family use, are of no value
except for shade or fuel. This can be done only by grafting,
budding, &c. The first trees planted in this country were
nearly all natural or ungrafted trees ; very few of which pro-
duced what might be called good fruit. And this was consid-
ered no great matter of regret; for by the first settlers, fruit
was not much used, or even thought of as an article of daily
food. Apples, in those early times, were grown only for cider,
which the people soon learned to convert into cider brandy.
And they rightly judged that bitter or crab-apples were as
good for this use as any. But since this pernicious practice
has been abandoned, tliere has been a demand for more deli-
cious fruit, such as may be made an article of daily food ; nor
would your committee too severely censure those who were
pioneers in the settlement of this country. In the first place,
they had not the means of procuring the best kind of trees ;
and farther, such rich varieties as now exist, could not, in that
time, have been obtained at any price. Fortunately, people
have come to understand this subject better than formerly.
Fruit for the table has come into general use, and the amount
used is every year increasing. Extensive nurseries have lately
been planted, in order to secure such trees as are wanted ; and

332 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

still there has been an importation of foreign trees to supply
the demand. But as yet there has been but a bare beginning
in the required change. It is too true, that at this time, within
the limits of your society, many trees are but mere cumberers
of the ground, producing no fruit, or that which is scarcely
worth gathering, and yet these trees occupy as much space,
and make as heavy a draft upon the soil as the very best.
Good winter apples seldom sell for less than fifty cents a
bushel. But poor apples will not sell at all. And in regard
to peach trees, but very few produce fruit of fine quality. The
best quality of peaches have sold this year, at the rate of two
dollars a bushel in this quarter; but who will buy the green,
sour, bitter kind, which so often appear? Your committee are
fully convinced, that if fruit trees were of the right kind, they
would be worth to the owners twice or thrice what they now
are, and would cost them scarcely a fraction more. In this
report there is no room to speak of the culture of trees, or of
soils or locations. But we wish to call the attention of this
society to the introduction of dwarf trees into gardens and
other grounds. Such trees are not only very profitable, but
exceedingly beautiful and ornamental. They have this ad-
vantage ; they bear well in three or four years, whereas the
orchard tree does not bear much short of ten or twelve years.

All which is respectfully submitted,

John San ford. Chairman.

PREMIUMS.

Samuel Dunlap, of Sunderland, ^10 for best orchard; The-
odore Pasco of Hadley, for best apple orchard, ^8 ; and
Elijah Boltwood, of Amherst, for next best, $6.

Theodore Pasco's Statement.

My orchard contains eighty-one trees. Some of them are
nearly thirty years old, while others are fifteen. Twelve years
after they were set, they were grafted six feet from the ground.
I have forty trees of Greenings, ten of Nurseries, four of Bald-
wins, five of Roxbury Russets, one of Shaker Russets, three
of Gillyflowers, one of Seek-no-further, two early Greenings,
two Winter Sweets, besides several choice varieties of early

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 333

apples. A part of the trees stand on loamy, and a part on
sandy soil. Being much neglected, I received little benefit
from them until six years ago. The land has never been
ploughed, and was manured but little until 1850, when I cov-
ered it with saltpetre dirt from under my barn, and chip ma-
nure. I turned the soil over around the trees to keep it loose,
and to prevent mice from gnawing them ; and scraped the
bark to keep off insects. That year I gathered one hundred
and thirty bushels of winter fruit, besides several bushels of
fall apples. My winter fruit I valued at sixty dollars, and cut
two crops of hay, one ton and three-quarters per acre, the first
mowing, and one ton the second. Two years before I sold
forty bushels of apples. This method of treating my orchard
I find to be quite beneficial. My trees this fall are in a thrifty
condition, and I have gathered from them, nearly three hun-
dred bushels of apples.

Elijah Bolticood' s Statemetit.

My orchard, which is in two locations, contains one hundred
and fifty trees. They are all from my own nursery, and have
been planted from fifteen to twenty years. They stand in
good soil, but have had no extra culture. They contain a
great variety of choice fruits ; such as Rhode Island Greening,
Roxbury Russet, Summer Golden Sweets, Winter Tolman
Sweet, R. I. Sweet, Scotch, Lafayette, and Boston Russet,
Congress Apple, Pumpkin Sweet, Cathead, Spitzenburg, Early
Sweet Bough, Red Pippin, Oyster Bay, Crow's Egg, Shop
Apple, Seek-no-further, Tabor Sweet, Tartar Apple, Leather
Coat, Widow Paine, Porter Apple, King Apple, Peck's Pleas-
ant, Royal Pippin, Burt Apple, Sawen Sweeting, Baldwin,
Pomegree, Jenneting, Golden Kennet, Siberian Crab Apple,
and many others, names unknown.

I have gathered from them this autumn, 150 bushels of
good winter apples, and 220 bushels of cider apples.

334 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

Swine.

Pork making is one of the useful arts. The most desirable
breed is the Suffolk, crossed with our best native. Mr.
Graves, of Sunderland, exhibited a fine specimen. The good
hog will have certain well defined marks, or points. His bones
will be small, his joints fine, his legs short, his breast broad,
with depth and elongation of body, and activity of carriage.
His sty ought to be kept clean and dry, and be constantly
supplied with clean straw. It should be about seven or eight
feet square, with an open yard, about ten feet square. Swine
should be supplied daily with water. Foul feeding and over
feeding are very injurious. Spring pigs, if fed on the slops of
the dairy, with a little provender mixed in, until September,
may be fed in addition, for six or eight weeks, with apples
and potatoes boiled together ; and afterwards, until slaugh-
tered, with corn or boiled meal. Grinding and cooking effects
a saving of grain, about one-third. Indian corn is the most
useful in feeding and fattening hogs ; and may be well em-
ployed, in connection with vegetables. The difference between
shelled corn and meal, appears from an experiment by Mr.
J: E. Dodge. One of his pigs was fed with shelled corn, and
supplied with plenty of pure water, and showed a gain of only
five pounds of pork for every fifty-six pounds of corn fed out.
Another pig, fed on Indian meal, mixed stiff" with cold water,
showed a gain of six pounds and three-quarters for every fifty-
six pounds of meal fed out.

Economical farmers have found the expense of raising pork
to be from five to six and a half cents per pound. Where
nothing is made on pork, however, the profit is in the manure,
if the sty be kept supplied with litter, muck, &c. Experi-
ments have shown a material increase of'the corn crop, from
the use of hog manure. An acre of corn planted with hog
manure, will yield twice as much as when planted with .barn-
yard manure. The manure of ten bushels of corn, made by
swine, if carefully saved and applied in the hill, will add five
bushels to the crop.

The slaughter of swine is often accompanied with refined
cruelty. Were the hog first knocked in the head, and thereby

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. 335

rendered insensible, he would be a passive victim in the
butcher's hands. This humane custom of knocking him on
the head, before cutting his throat, is rapidly gaining ground
in our country. May it supplant the barbarous practice of
plunging the living hog into boiling water, and even scraping
off his bristles and disembowelling him while yet sensible.

Respectfully submitted,

J. W. BoYDEN, Chairman.

Compost Manures.

Two entries were made ; one by William P. Dickinson, to
whom was awarded the first premium, of eight dollars; the
other, by Royal W. Smith, to whom was awarded the second
premium, of four dollars.

Your committee were in doubt how to award these pre-
miums. Had there been two premiums of eight dollars each,
we would have awarded one to each competitor, with a "good
will ;" for we consider them both highly meritorious, and about
equally so. We say to them both, " Go on, you will be re-
warded, and you will benefit your neighbors. You are fast
finding out how to raise corn at a diminished cost. We see
distinctly, and beyond the possibility of a mistake, that the
corn on these fields has cost you but about half as much as the
corn on many fields in your neighborhood; and we confidently
believe that by means of your composts you are not only not
abusing your soils, but are essentially amending them for long
years to come. When all farmers will manage their lands as
you are managing yours, then will come the golden age of
agriculture, and you may enjoy the satisfaction of feeling that
you have contributed to usher it in."

Mr. Smith's mode of composting manures has been tested
for a longer time than Mr. Dickinson's, and he has this year
grown a larger crop with it. For these considerations, we
were inclined to award him the first premium. But Mr. Dick-
inson has raised a crop of fifty or more bushels per acre, on
eight acres of land, which was so covered with moss, and so
unpromising in all respects, that few men would have said that

336 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

corn could be grown upon it at a living profit ; and he has
done it at a great profit. He has demonstrated, that just such
sick lands as these, which he has purchased within a few years,
can be cured, and be profitably cultivated, at a far higher price,
per acre, than they have been held for years past. We sup-
pose, therefore, that every owner of such lands is a debtor, or,
in other words, is benefited by such knowledge as Mr. Dickin-
son has developed. These are some of our reasons for award-
ing to Mr. Dickinson the first premium. We have read Prof.
Norton's letter to Mr. Dickinson, and we deem it not out of
place here to say, that it makes us feel more than ever the great
loss which the farmers of this country have sustained in the
death of such a man.

William P. Dickinson! s Statement.

I offer for your consideration the following statement, in re-
gard to oyster-shell lime, as a manure.

In the fall of 1851, I had a sample of nine acres of soil
analyzed, and found that it was very deficient in lime, (there
being only three one-hundreths of a pound in one hundred
pounds of soil.) I was advised to use shell lime plaster for
sulphuric acid, and a little salt, for chlorine.

After spreading and harrowing in a compost, of ten loads to
the acre, upon the whole field, I made a mixture of ten bushels
of lime, two and one-half of plaster, and one-half bushel of
salt, to the acre, and put a large handful in each hill, before
planting. I left two rows together, in different parts of the
field, to see the result. So great was the difference during the
early part of the season, that the rows which were not limed,
could easily be selected by their golden color, compared with
other rows by the side of them, and at the time of harvesting,
(when your committee saw it) the difterence was so great, that
the rows which were not limed could be "selected froni the
others, as well as if there had been a stake driven at each one ;
the stalks and the ears were small, compared with others. .The
difference was estimated by good judges to be from one-fourth
to one-third in favor of the rows which were limed. I like-
wise sowed some lime in the middle of a piece of grass. At
the time of mowing, the quantity of grass was double, and the

HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY. , 337

spot can easily be selected now, by its fresh, green appearance
compared with that by the side of it.

I will merely say, that the lime cost seven cents per bushel
in New Haven, and the freight was about five cents per
bushel — making about twelve and a half cents, in North-
ampton.

Hadley, Sept. 30, 1S52.

Royal W. Smithes Statement.

During nine or ten years past, I have composted manure,
and find it equal in value to yard manure, and better for corn.
I usually make fifty loads. I draw out twenty-five loads of
muck to the field, where I propose to raise my corn crop.
This is done in the fall. I draw, about the 1st of April, twenty-
five loads of yard manure, to the muck heap. I add fifty
bushels of lime and five hundred pounds of plaster. I mix
these ingredients as soon as the frost is out of the ground in
the spring, to make the compost. As soon as the heap begins
to warm, I pitch it over, to prevent burning, and the compost
will be ready for use, by the time it is wanted for planting.
The manure will be well rotted and fermented. I have never
failed of a good corn crop, with this compost.

Hadley, Oct. 25, 1852.

It will be perceived by Mr. Dickinson's statement, that he
put ten loads of manure on each of his eight acres. This, he
informed us, was composted of five loads of yard manure and
five of swamp muck. The two rows, here and there, on which
this manure only was put, produced, in the opinion of your
committee, at the rate of not over 18, or at most, 20 bushels
of corn to the acre ; while we judged that the corn which was
treated to the handful of lime, plaster and salt, would give from
50 to 60 bushels. Our opinion on the latter, it since appears,
was not too high, as Mr. Dickinson assures us he has husked
the corn on precisely one acre, and it yields 126.V bushels of
ears, which would give quite up to our highest estimate of
shelled corn.

With regard to Mr. Smith's statement, your committee
would suggest, that the lime used was not pure lime. It was
43

838 HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

of a kind which he obtains for about half the price of pure
lime. With this impure lime, containing as it does, nearly
50 per cent, of sand and other impurities, Mr. Smith's mode of
adding the lime at the same time with the yard manure, may
be well, and certain it is that he has succeeded with it admi-
rably. He has satisfied us, that with ten loads of this com-
post in the hill, and five loads of yard manure harrowed in, he
has this year grown 90 bushels of shelled corn to the acre.
We would, however, advise him, if he were using strong, pure
lime, not to bring it at first in contact with his yard manure,
but to compost it the previous autumn with his swamp muck,
and then to mix it, thus composted, with the yard manure in
the spring. This would probably be the safer course ; though
there is not much danger of driving off the ammonia from
manure by adding lime, if peat or swamp mud be added at
the same time ; for while the lime would drive off the ammo-
nia, the office of the peat or mud is to rise upon it and to hold
it fast ; and we dare not say positively but that Mr. Smith's
mode is the best, especially as he has tried it thoroughly and
been successful. At any rate, it would not be well to put lime
with yard manure, without adding peat or mud, at the same
time, nor without forking it over, to keep it, as Mr. Smith
says, " from burning."

The land on which Mr. Smith has grown 90 bushels of corn
to the acre is of an excellent quality. That of Mr. Dickinson
we have before described. We will now add, that we think it
quite as meritorious to grow 60 bushels on such land as Mr.
Dickinson's as to grow 90 bushels on such as Mr. Smith's.

All which is respectfully submitted,

J. A. Nash, Chairman.

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 339

BERKSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

The forty-second anniversary of the Berkshire County Agri-
cultural Society, was celebrated on the 6th and 7th of October,
at Pittsfield. It was, in truth, a jubilee to the farmers of the
county. They felt that the seasons had been propitious to
most of their crops. The drought, it is true, had pinched and
diminished the grass crop, but the potatoes, the staple of Berk-
shire, had escaped the blight of former years, and other crops
were very good. The competitors for the premiums offered
on the various crops, fruit orchards, &c., was great, generous,
and noble, among the members of our society.

The show of cattle was also good. The numbers and great
variety of sheep added much interest to the exhibition. The
exhibition of horses, especially in the department of mares and
colts, exceeded by far, anything of the kind we have ever had.
Many varieties of poultry added great interest to the show.
The increasing numbers, and greater variety of stock that our
fairs are bringing on the ground for exhibition, make it neces-
sary to arange the grounds so that the stock can be more
thoroughly classified for the convenience of the committees. In
the town hall the exhibition was highly satisfactory. Batter
and cheese were there in so many parcels, and in such perfec-
tion, that the committee could hardly agree on whom to bestow
the premiums.

Fruits were there in such variety and abundance as to aston-
ish Berkshire people, and rebuke them too, for their want of
faith in the adaptedness of Berkshire soil and climate to the
best varieties. It is hoped that the society may soon have a
more capacious hall for the display of domestic fabrics, fruits,

340 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

agricultural implements, &c. On the second day the plough-
ing match came off on the Foot farm, attended with the
usual interest and excitement. At 11 o'clock the members
met in large numbers at the Berkshire Hotel, and moved in
procession to the Baptist Church — the use of which was kindly-
tendered to the society — to enjoy the usual exercises. The
pulpit services were performed by the Rev. Mr. Dasheill, of
Stockbridgc. The singing by the choir of the church was very
acceptable.

Great disappointment was felt at the failure of Dr. Lee, of
Washington, who was to make the address. The time was
well occupied, however, by Dr. S. Reed, editor of the Culturist,
and Mr. Proctor, of Danvers, agent of the State Board of Ag-
riculture. Their remarks were very interesting and instructive.
The reports were then read, and premiums awarded. The
society partook of excellent dinners, on Wednesday at the
United States Hotel, and on Thursday at the Berkshire.

Much credit is due to the marshal. Col. Willis, and his as-
sistants, and the police of Pittsfield, for the excellent order that
prevailed both days.

E. H. KELLOGG, Secretary.

Ploughing.

The committee on the ploughing match having concluded the
duties assigned them, ask leave to submit the following report:

They regard the plough as the chief implement, and plough-
ing the prime operation in tillage — husbandry. Both should
be perfect, in order to perfect cultivation by the modes now in
use.

As the stores of fertility, deposited by the forests of centu-
ries, become exhausted, and other resources of fruitfulness re-
quiring labor and art, are employed, more careful and skilful
modes of husbandry are demanded, and the earths and ele-
ments of vegetation, artificially supplied, are to be wrought
together and intermingled with increased knowledge and care.
In this process, no substitute has been found for the plough —
no motive forces, better than oxen and horses, and nothing to

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 341

supply adequately, the place of human hands. The plough
has been brought to such perfection, in strength and structure,
that an apology for bad ploughing can be found only in bad
teams and bad land. And surely time enough has elapsed for
great improvement, since " Ceres taught Triptolemus agricul-
ture," and "All the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to
sharpen every man his share and his coulter."

The most exciting part of our annual exhibition of produce
and workmanship, is the amicable rivalry of the ploughing
match. The great number of the intelligent of both sexes in
attendance upon this rival exhibition of skill and dexterity,
clearly shows that they appreciate its benefits, and that it has
a value and consideration beyond the mere achievements of
victory. It is quite as important to educate good ploughmen
as good lawyers and physicans; nor is the ploughman's busi-
ness any the less respectable because there are no scientific
principles formally laid down, and very few precepts found in
the books for its practice. The working oxen on the field were
fine, the horses were unusually good and substantial farm
horses; and as horses of this character, are, in some parts of
the country, superseding oxen, the committee are happy to
notice that greater attention is being given to them. Depth
of furrow not less than six, and width of slice not more than
twelve inches, were prescribed by the rules of the society.
This regulation was carefully observed, — whether it be suited
to all soils — and if not, to what, your committee were not
called upon to determine. To the execution of the work only
was their attention directed, and the awards reported are based
upon the manner in which the work was done.

It is usual for committees upon ploughing to report that
they find it very difficult to settle the relative merits of com-
petitors. There is strict truth in this, and the difficulty is be-
coming every year more perplexing. Fifteen years ago it
was comparatively easy to discriminate. No two workmen
ploughed alike; such improvements have been made since
then, producing such uniformity as renders it almost impossi-
ble to detect any material difl'erence in the work of competitors.
Your committee were of one mind, that all the lands struck
out were remarkably well ploughed. Better ploughing is
hardly conceivable. The boys, half grown, were as tall as the

342

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

men of full stature ; and we were struck with admiration at
the adroitness and dexterity of a lad of fifteen, son of Dr. Jacob
Burghardt, of Great Barrington, who handled the plough with
the expertness of a veteran in the business.

Your committee report the following awards : —

On ox teams.
Freeman Bates, of Pittsfield, 1st premium,
Edward Clark, " 2d " . .

Asa D. Rowland, of Lenox, 3d " . .
Collins Warner, of Pittsfield, 4th «
Jonathan Baldwin, of Great Barrington, 5th premium,
Wm. H. Burghardt, of G't Barrington, 6th premium.

On horse teams.
George S. Willis, of Pittsfield, 1st premium,
Joshua R. Lawton, Jr., G. Barrington, 2d premium,
James N. Strong, of Pittsfield, 3d premium,
Horatio N. Tuttle, of Sheffield, 4th «
Andrew Baldwin, of Great Barrington, 5th premium,
David L. Pratt, of Sheffield, 6th premium.

Your committee award a reserved premium of
Stephen Reed, of Pittsfield, for " a worthy exhibition of experi-
mental ploughing," with a plough called by the Doctor " the
Michigan soil and subsoil plough." One of your committee,
who has used it, and carefully attended to its operations, ex-
presses the conviction that it is admirably suited to many of our
Berkshire soils.

H. W. Bishop, Chairman.

. $7

, 2 00

. $7

4 00

5 3

S5 to

Dr.

Grain and Root Crops.

The committee on agricultural productions have attended
to the duty assigned them and offer to the society the follow-
ing report. The whole number of crops entered for premiums
is 192, the most of which we have examined ; a few have
been withdrawn. It is the opinion of the committee, that the
interest manifested by the farmers of Berkshire, to build up,
support and sustain the society, is by no means abated, but on

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 343

the increase, as must be evident to all who have an eye to see
or an ear to hear. The committee were called upon to exam-
ine crops from the extreme north to the south line of the
county, a section of country not surpassed by any of equal
extent in New England, for enterprise, production, health and
fine scenery. It was evident to the committee, as we passed
along the valleys of the Ilousatonic and Hoosic rivers, that a
commendable spirit of improvement is abroad in our county,
extending from the slope of the mountain top across the wide-
spread plain below; all of which were dotted with fine fields
of grain, with but occasionally a partial failure, caused by the
early drought.

The hay crop this year is not equal in quantity to that of
last, but as nearly as we can ascertain, about one-third defi-
cient, but the quality is far better, which will help the deficiency
very much.

Of corn, about fifty pieces were entered. Seven were com-
petitors on three acres, the remainder for one. Here the farm-
ers contended nobly, each one meaning to have the best crop
in the county, which is as it should be. The crop may be con-
sidered a fair one ; some parts, however, were aflectcd by the
drought, but in our opinion, there will be no want of grain for
the consumption of man and beast, in Berkshire county, this
year.

The field of corn entered by the president, Justus Tower, of
Lanesborough, was a good one. It was evident to the com-
mittee that it had been managed by a skilful cultivator of the
soil, the crop bearing testimony to the fact. Upon this field
an experiment had been made with several kinds of manure
of "compost variety," differing materially from each other, and
as a statement respecting the treatment of the crop will soon
be published, your committee deemed it unnecessary to enter
it at full length in their report.

The oat crop, of which thirty pieces were entered for pre-
mium, were not of as great growth of straw as last year, but
were well headed and will yield a fair crop in the north part
of the county. It was evident that the south part of the
county had suffered more by the early drought, which affect-
ed the crop materially.

Ten fields of meslins were entered, some of them first

344 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

rate, others not as good ; like the oat crop, injured by the
drought.

Quite a number of entries were made of barley, the most
of which were good, and some were very heavy and of great
growth, well filled, berry plnmp and fair.

Three entries were made of peas, which promised well at
the time of viewing.

A large number of pieces of buckwheat were entered, all
of which were very good, consequently it was a difficult mat-
ter to decide as to the premiums.

Potatoes. — Eleven crops were entered, and not one poor
piece but all very good. We saw no signs of any rot among
all the pieces and varieties viewed. The farmers appeared to
be the best pleased with this crop of any we were called to
view, as it appeared to remind them of by-gone days.

Turnips. — The committee were authorized to award $8 on
the various turnip crops. Eight entries were made, all look-
ing fine.

In the reports of former committees, much has been said
respecting the fine, neat and commodious dwelling-houses
lately erected in the county, and the noble and convenient
barns, &c. Upon this Ave shall not enlarge, but do say, the
half never was told us.

"We were highly gratified and noticed with pleasure, the in-
creased attention which is now being paid to the cultivating of
choice fruits in the county, and had the pleasure of testing the
qualities of several varieties of pears and plnms, and also of
peaches, quite a number of which would not sulTer in com-
parison with those brought from the peach-growing district of
New Jersey.

Orchards.

The whole number of orchards entered was fourteen, most
of which were in fine condition and looked well. Quite a
goodly number of them were taken from the nursery of the
Hon. William Williams, of Stockbridge, and were of fine form,
healthy appearance and vigorous growth. It was evident to the
committee, that trees taken from the nurseries in the county,

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 345

are much better adapted to our soil and climate, more likely to
live and flourish, than those taken from the far-famed nursery
of Rochester; and we would recommend to those gentlemen
about to plant out orchards, to patronize those gentlemen in
our county who have been at great expense in starting their
nurseries. They should be sustained by the farmers of Berk-
shire ; for we are of opinion, that as fine apples, pears, peaches,
plums, and many of the smaller fruits, can be cultivated here
as successfully perhaps, as in any part of Massachusetts.

The orchard entered by J. Stevens, of Sheffield, did not
come under the rules of the society, being planted previous to
1849. The committee regret exceedingly that it is not in their
power to award the gentleman a premium. This orchard con-
tained 108 trees, all of them grafted fruit, comprising forty
varieties of the choicest fruit, and it is the opinion of the com-
mittee, that 500 bushels of apples might have been taken from
it at the time we viewed it, but having no surplus funds in
our hands, we would recommend to the society to award a
premium of ^5 to Mr. Stevens, for the spirit he has manifest-
ed in the cultivation of good fruit.

Wheat.

The crop of winter wheat was good. Nine pieces were en-
tered for premium ; the most of which was of fair growth, and
will well pay the farmer for capital vested, and time and labor
spent in raising this noble crop. The fields entered by J. L.
Cooper, of Sheffield, and Benjamin Baldwin, of Egremont,
would bear a fine comparison with the far-famed wheat fields
of the West.

Of spring wheat, there were twelve entries. Here your
committee found it very difficult to decide upon the best piece,
a number exceeding any we ever saw before, being of an
astonishing growth, ascertaining, also, that it filled well, and
yielded bountifully.

Winter rye is good throughout the county, having a fair
growth of straw, long and well filled heads, which bespeak a
good reward to the farmer for his labor. There were fifteen
entries, all of which were worthy of premium.
44

346

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY

In our tonr around the county, we saw many farmers en-
gaged in moving large quantities of muek from the swamps to
their yar(]s and pen:?, for the purpose of increasing their com-
post heaps, with very little trouble and expense, in converting
it into a valuable manure, which may be considered, in the
true sense of the word, the capital stock of the farmer. We
hope the farmers will bestow^ more attention upon this branch
of farming, as we believe it to be invariably the case in every
part of the county where the attention of the farmer has been
turned to this important subject, viz.: the manufacturing of
manure from muck, and repairing of ditches, you are sure to
find good crops, a well cultivated farm, the crops upon it bear-
ing testimony that they have been well cared for, and of course
make good returns to the farmer for his labor and capital
vested ; but where this indispensable requisite is omitted, you
will most surely hear the farmer complain that he can never
get a premium on his crops, but his neighbor is always a suc-
cessful competitor, t!ie reason being obvious, but he does not
see it.

In conclusion, your committee would not be unmindful of
the kind reception they met with in every section of the county
they had occasion to visit, and those families whose hospitality
they shared largely, will please accept our sincere and hearty
thanks. We award, —

For the best acre of winter wheat —

1. John L. Cooper, of Sheffield,

2. Benjamin Baldwin, of Egremont, .
For the best acre of spring wheat —

1. Walter Richards, of Lenox, .

2. J. H. Chapin, of Sheflield, .

3. William Williams, of Stockbridge,

4. Nathaniel Cook, of Richmond,

5. Reed Mills, of Williamstown,
For the best acre of winter rye —

1. Samuel Lewis, of Great Barrington,

2. John Partridge, of Pittsfield, .

3. Marshal Brace, of Stockbridge,

4. Paul S. Palmer, of Stockbridge,

5. Enos Smith, of Stockbridge, .

. $6

. , 3

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

347

For the three acres of corn in one field —

1. Orin Cartis, of Sheffield, ....

2. Clemmont Harrison, of Adams,

3. Crocker Thatcher, of Lee, . . . .
For the best acre of corn —

1. Marshal Butler, of Lenox, . . . .

2. Henry D. Palmer, of Stockbridge, .

3. Ezekiel R. Colt, of Pittsfield,

4. Charles Hinckley, of Lee, . . . .
Extra premium to Thomas Wood, of Egremont,
An extra premium of two dollars, to T. Taylor,

of Pittsfield, for a fine piece of corn, ripe and
fair, ........

To George Powel, of Lanes-borough, for a piece
of corn, hoed by a boy nine years old, an extra
premium of ...... .

For the best acre of oats —

1. Gustavus Dunham, of Pittsfield, .

2. Charles Bush, of Stockbridge,

3. Franklin Tobey, of West Stockbridge,

4. James E. Kellogg, of Sheffield,
For the best acre of rrieslins —

1. E. C. Carter, of Stockbridge, .

2. Luther S. Butler, of Lenox, .

3. Henry Colt, of Pittsfield,

4. Henry Werden, Jr., of Richmond, .
For the best acre of barley —

1. Joshua Tillotson, of Lanesborough,

2. Seymour T. Coman, of Pittsfield, ,

3. Albion P. Bagg, of Lanesborough,

4. Franklin H. Gaston, of Richmond,
For the best acre of peas —

1. John R. Tillotson, of Lanesborough,

2. D. E. Deming, of Williamstovvn, .

3. Nelson Joyner, of Egremont,
For the best acre of buckwheat —

1. William H. Nichols, of Richmond,

2. Levi Butler, of Lenox, .

3. William Goodcnow, of Lanesborough,
To George S. Willis, of Pittsfield, extra premium,

$6 00

4 00

2 00

1 00

348

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY,

For the best acre of potatoes —

1. D. A. Bulldey, of Williamstown, .

2. Edson Sexton, of Stockbridge,

3. Leonard Tuttle, of Sheffield,

4. Eli Bradley, of Lee,
For the best one-fourth acre of carrots —

1. Mark Laird, of Great Barrington, .

2. Benjamin Hull, of Stockbridge,
8. E. Joyner, of Egremont,

For the best piece of turnips —

1. R. Colt, of Pittsfield, .

2. William Williams, of Stockbridge,
This crop grew where Canada thisth

reigned predominant twenty-five years

3. D. Kendall, of Lenox, .

4. Charles Thatcher, of Lee,
For the best grafted apple orchard of not less than

fifty trees, planted since October 1st, 1849, that has
not taken a premium —

1. C, Carter, of Stockbridge, . . . .

2. Orin Cm-tis, of Sheffield, . . . .

3. Justus Tower, of Lanesborough, .

• $5

have

8 00
6 00
4 00

All Vv^hich is respectfully submitted,

Henry Smith, Chainnan.

Accompanying the entry of winter Avheat, for which the first
premium was given, was the following statement : —

Julin L. Cooper'' s Statement.

Soil, a fair mixture of clay and loam ; mowed the year pre-
vious, yielding 1|- ton of hay per acre. Ploughed only once,
six inches deep ; sowed the first week in September, one and
a half bushels of Soule's wheat. Seed sown without any
preparation.

On spring wheat, the first premium was given to W. Rich-
ards, of Lenox, for a piece of Italian wheat. On a gravelly
soil, which last year was manured with 20 loads of barnyard
manure to the acre, spread on and ploughed in five inches deep,

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 349

and planted with corn. It was sowed this season tlie 2d day
of May, 1^ bushel to the acre.

Second premium to J. H. Chapin, of Sheffield, from whose
statement it appears that the soil was a clay loam, on which
the last year 25 or 30 loads of straw manure was spread and
, ploughed in from seven to eight inches in depth, and that the
crop was eighty bushels of corn. No manure was applied the
present season. It was sowed with two bushels to the acre
of Tea wheat, the 3d of May.

Third premium to Gen. William Williams, of Stockbridge.
The soil a loam ; 75 bushels of corn per acre last year; 25 cart
loads of manure per acre last season. The 20th of April the
hills were split, then harrowed and ploughed clean. Two or
three days after, harrowed and sowed two bushels Black Sea
wheat to the acre. Seed sowed dry, without any fertili::er.

Fourth premium to Nathaniel Cook, of Richmond. The
soil was a mixture of clay and gravel, mowed the year before
the last. It was ploughed last year once, eight inches deep.
Manured with 20 ox cart bodies full of new manure, harrowed
in, and ten loads put in the hills, and planted with corn. The
growth was large, but the corn not very sound. For the pres-
ent crop, no manure was used. The land was ploughed once.
Two bushels of Black Sea wheat, soaked in lime water and
brine, and rolled in plaster until dry, was sowed the 8th day
of May, and the ground harrowed three times thoroughly.

The next premium to Reed Mills, of Williamstown.

Reed Mills's Statement.

I enclose a statement of the process of cultivation and ma-
nures and fertilizers used and applied to our wheat crop, which
was examined by you and the other gentleman of the commit-
tee the present month.

In the spring of the year 1849 the ground was manured at
the rate of 15 two-horse wagon loads of barnyard manure per
acre, ploughed and planted to corn, and plastered two or three
times in the course of the summer. In the spring of the year
1850 the ground was ploughed well and sowed to oats; no
manure or fertilizer of any kind was used this year. The
above crops were rather more than middling for those years.
Seeded lightly to clover, in the spring of 1851. No manure of

350 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

any kind was used ; the clover was permitted to grow till the
4th of July, and then mowed. We had a yield of 1^ ton per
acre.

In the spring of 1852 the ground was ploughed once, and sub-
soiled, harrowed before sowing, and then manured with com-
post manure at the rate of ten loads per acre, sowed and har-
rowed. Nothing further was done to the crop from the time
of sowing until examined by the committee.

The soil is a sandy loam. One and a half bushel of Med-
iterranean wheat was sown, broadcast, to the acre, the 1st of
May.

I am confident that my wheat the present year is a greater
growth, and will yield more per acre than my wheat crop of
last year, which was 28| bushels per acre. And what makes
it still more interesting to me is, that more than seventy-five
years ago, it was cleared by my father, and upon this same
wheat field the first log dwelling was erected, and constituted
his only dwelling for quite a number of years.

Butter and Cheese.

The committee appointed to examine the specimens of but-
ter and cheese offered for premium, report that the total num-
ber of entries for the society's premiums on butter is believed
to have been larger than at any previous exhibition since the
organization of the society, in 1811. There were forty com-
petitors for the prizes. The superior quality of all the butter,
and of the eleven specimens of the cheese inspected, reflected
much credit upon the Berkshire dairies, and rendered it ex-
ceedingly difficult for the committee to decide in regard to the
most deserving. The committee award
For the best 100 lbs. of cheese —

1. Seymour T. Coman, of Pittsfield, . . . $5 00

2. John B. Wells, of Cheshire, 4 00

3. Mrs. John H, Jordan, of Williamstown, . 3 00

4. Mrs. Eliza Morrison, of Monterey, . . 2 00
For \ \e best 25 lbs. of butter —

1. Mrs. Jerome Hulbert, of Pittsfield, . . 5 00

2. Mrs. Levi Childs, of Pittsfield, . . . 4 00

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 351

3. Mrs. James Meacham, of Williamstovvn, . ^3 00

4. Mrs. Lydia J. Shepherdson, of Lanesborough, 2 00

The committee tasted some good vinegar, exhibited by Mr.
William M. Murray, of Lenox, contained in a vessel which
bore this label: — " A vinegar plant, from which the best of
vinegar may be made in four weeks, without the use of cider,
with two cups of molasses to one gallon of water."

Some excellent specimens of maple sugar were ottered by
Peter Goodell, Jr., and John F. Powell, of Lanesborough;
Porter Smith, of Lenox, Elias Cady, of Dalton, and L. L.
Darling, of Pittsfield. The committee recommend that there
be awarded to Mr. Goodell, for the best specimen, a gratuity
of $2.

Respectfully submitted,

R. E. Galpin, Chairman.

Fruits, etc.

The committee on fruits respectfully represent, that if the
award of premiums was to be an end of the matter, they
should think any remarks on the subject of the specimens pre-
sented, wholly unnecessary. The heavy, symmetrical apples,
with countenances glowing with health and perfectness ; the
melting, sensitive pears, which a mere pinch or cut would in-
duce to dissolve in delicious tenderness ; the deep-hued, downy
plums; peaches, blushing with all the modesty that a "first
coming out" would naturally awaken, and grapes, hanging in
rich and seductive clusters, have all spoken their own praises, —
the praises of their cultivators, and the high praises of Berk-
shire soil, and Berkshire sunshine, and of Berkshire rains and
dews, which have given to them such beautiful growth and
rich maturity.

They have said to all, in language too impressive to be re-
sisted, "let it no longer be a proverb among you, that good
fruits, in unbounded variety, cannot be raised all along your hill
sides and on your mountain tops, as well as in your sheltered and
beautiful valleys ; for, as we teach you to say, such apologies
are the result of sheer indifference, gross negligence, or unpar-

352 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

donable indolence, — or, what is worse, they may result from
an unhallowed mixture of the three, which must form a sad
and killing compound. But, dig deep, and enrich your soil ;
restore to it the productive properties that Nature gave, and
man, in his greediness, has wrung from it. Plant fruits and
ever-generous vines, and take care of them, and the offering of
beauty and delicacy we present to your view to-day, will be an
epitome of the every-day offering we will make to every house-
hold. It is true, the dispensations of Providence may some-
times blight your expectations with regard to us. Early or
late frosts, which no man can hinder, may occasionally cut us
off, for a single year. But such dispensations should teach
you to prize healthful and agreeable qualities more effectually,
and to extend our culture to greater quantities, and with more
fixed care, with the assurance that, in a climate as favorable as
yours, and in a soil in which industry can supply every defect,
God and nature have done their part. It is only for man to
awake from his lethargy and do his, and choice, healthful
fruits will be as abundant as human desire is unlimited." We
award —

For the best exhibition of apples, —

1. David F. Goodrich, of Stockbridge, . . $4 00

2. Edward C. Carter, " " . . 3 00

3. Joseph Stevens, of Sheffield, . . ' . . 2 00

4. George B. Cook, of « .... 1 00

For an elegant display of apples, pears, quinces, and a rich
show of dahlias, the society is under obligation to Mr. E. G.
Studley of the Flatland Nurseries, Claverack, New York. For
the interest Mr. Studley has given by this exhibition, we would
recommend that a gratuity of ^2 be given him, and if his
trees are as superior as his fruit, we would commend his
nursery to public patronage.

The grounds of the Young Ladies' Institute, as everyone
knows who has passed them, are laid out and decorated* in a
style of beauty and taste worthy of their appointment, and
creditable to the skill, intelligence and refinement worthy of
the principal of such an establishment. They are just as such
grounds should be, natural, easy and agreeable in design, and
those who are educated in the midst of their attractiveness,

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 353

cannot fail to receive impressions of rural beauty which will
beautify their after lives.

From these grounds were exhibited an exceedingly rich
display of table grapes. Though the clusters may not have
been quite as large as those of Eschol, if our senses did not
betray us, they were quite as good, — we think better ; for they
grew from our Berkshire soil, and were matured by Berkshire
sunshine. May the same success attend the happy pair who
inhabit this Eden, in all their efforts to cultivate the flowers
and fruits of the earth, for which they are now so^eminent in
cultivating intellects of richer flowers and more enduring fruits,
until they see a natural as well as moral and^intellectual Eden,
spreading under their influence. We recommend to them a
gratuity of $1.

For the best and largest variety of garden vegetables —

1. G. C. Burnap, of Pittsfield, . . . . $4 00

2. D. A. Bulkley, of Williamstown, . . . 3 00

3. Justus Tower of Lanesborough, . . . 2 00
For the best grass seed —

1. Levi Butler, of Lenox, 3 00

2. George B. Cook, of Sheffield, . . . 2 00

All which is respectfully submitted,

William Bacon, Chairman.

Milch Cows.

The committee on milch cows, report the number of cows
entered as nineteen, most of which your committee called ex-
cellent animals. The competitors in all cases did not comply
with the requirements of the society in presenting a written
statement of the amount of milk and butter made the third
week of June and September, and therefore could not be con-
sidered as competitors. We award the

1st Premium to Merrick M. Rice, Great Barrington, $10 00

2d " " Henry Colt, of Pittsfield, " . . 9 00

3d " " Henry Sabin, of Lee, . . . 8 00

4th " " Austin W. Kellogg, of Pittsfield, . 7 00
45

354 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

5th Premium to Luther S. Bitter, of Lenox

$6 00

5 00
4 00
3 00
2 00

6th " " Benjamin Parsons, of "

7th " " Nelson Strong, of Pittsficld,

8th " " Henry Noble, of "

9th " " John E. Merrill, of "

All which is respectfully submitted,

William E. Johnson, Chairman.

"We give below an abstract of statements presented by the
competitors for premiums : —

M. M. Rice's Statement.

Durham cow, seven years old, came in 2d of May. Third
week in June, gave 386 lbs. of milk, which made 18^ lbs. of
butter. Seven days in September, 331 lbs. milk, and 15^3^- lbs.
of butter. Gave her four quarts of wheat shorts per day.

H. Coifs Statement.

She is eight years old, native breed ; came in 1st day of
May. Gave 271 lbs. 4 oz. milk third week in June ; 176 lbs.
5 oz. milk third week in September. Made 17 lbs. 6 oz.
of butter third week in June ; 13 lbs. 8oz. of butter third week
in September. Fed pumpkins and 4 quarts oat meal in Sep-
tember.

Butter made from the cow during the following months :

June, 59|- pounds.

July, 49J «

August, 40f "

September, 881 «

Four months' butter, . . .188 "

The cow was sick for ten days during the first part of Sep-
tember, which will account for the falling off of butter during
the month. »

H. Sabin's Statement.

Cow is six years old, part Durham ; came in 10th of April.
Gave 307 lbs. of milk from 13th to 19th of June ; 241-i|- lbs.
from 13th to 19th of September.

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 355

Morning. Evening. Total.

Sunday, June 13, 18 lbs. 12 oz.; 23 lbs. oz. ; 41 lbs. 12 oz.

Monday, "

14,

12 "

8 "

4 «

Tuesday, "

15,

"Wednesday,

16,

12 "

12 «

8 «

Thursday, "

17,

4 "

4 «

8 "

Friday, «

18,

4 »

4 «

Saturday, "

19,

4 "

8 «

12 «

Seven days, number of pounds of milk, 307

June 14, 15, and 16, set 72 lbs. 12 oz. milk, made 3 lbs. 10
oz. butter ; 15 lbs. 4 oz. per week. 17, 18, 19, set 66 lbs. 12 oz.
milk, made 3 lbs. 11 oz. butter; 16 lbs. 15|^ oz. per week. First
part of the week very warm ; last part good weather for
butter.

June 13, was drove three-fourths of a mile to very poor pas-
ture ; baited in door-yard at night ; had a pail of swill from
swill barrel night and morning. September 13. In meadow
for one week, then turned back to my summer pasture, gave
pail of swill night and morning. From some cause the cream
did not rise as usual. Frosty nights had no fire near the but-
tery, that might warm the room, as will appear by the butter.

Morning.

Evening.

Total.

Monday, Sept.

13,

16 lbs. 8oz.:

; 18 lbs.

12 oz.

; 35 lbs. 4 oz.

Tuesday, "

14,

15 »

17 "

4 "

32 " 4 «

"Wednesday,

1-5,

16 " 12 "

17 "

8 "

35 » 4 «

Thursday, «

16,

16 " 8 "

17 "

4 «

33 « 12 "

Friday, "

17,

17 " 4 "

19 »

4 "

36 " 8 «

Saturday, "

18,

17 «

18 "

35 "

Sunday, "

19,

18 « 8 "

16 "

4 «

34 " 12 «

Seven days' milk, .... 251 lbs. 12 oz.

September, 13th, 14th and 15th, set 66 lbs. 12 oz. milk, and
made 2 lbs. 8 oz. butter ; 16th, 17th, and 18th, 66 lbs. 12 oz.
milk, and made 2 lbs. 8 oz. butter ; making 9 lbs. ^ oz. per
week.

A. W. Kellogg's Statement.

Age of cow eight years, native breed ; came in. May 27th.
Third week in June, gave 56 lbs. 8 oz. milk per day. Third

356 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

week in September, gave 36 lbs. 9 oz. milk per day. From
milk third week in Jmie, chm-ned three times, weight of butter,
14 lbs. 6 oz. From milk third week in September, churned at
two different times ; weight of butter, 11 lbs. 12 oz.

Li June, was fed two quarts of meal per day, dry. Was
drove to pasture one mile and a half. In September, was fed
half bushel pumpkins night and morning, drove to pasture as
above stated.

Luther S. Butler^s Statement.

This cow was eight years old last spring, and of the native
breed. She came in May 23d. Gave 295 lbs. of milk the 3d
week in June, which made sixteen and one-half pounds of
butter. The third week of September, she gave 224 lbs. of
milk, which made sixteen pounds of butter. In June, no feed
but pasture. In September, pasture and pumpkins.

Lenox, Sept. 29, 1852.

B. Parsori's Statement.

Cow came in in May, and made 14r^Q lbs. butter in 3d week
of June, and 11 lbs. 3d week in September.

Nelson Strong's State7nent.

June 15, 1852, 48} lbs. milk ; 1 day butter, 2^ lbs. July 15,
46^2g- lbs. milk ; 1 day butter, 2^^ lbs. August 15, 43^5_ jbg.
milk ; 1 day butter, 2^^ lbs. September 15, 42|- lbs. milk ;
butter 1 day, 2^^ lbs.

Henry NobWs Statement.

Age, seven years last spring ; breed, cross of Aryshire and
native ; came in last March. Gave, the 3d week in June, 324|-
Ibs. milk. Average, per day, 46^ lbs. At one trial, 20| lbs.
milk produced one pound of butter. Feed, good pasture.
Gave, the 3d week in September, 266 lbs. milk; per day, 38
lbs. Eighteen and one-half pounds of milk to the pound of
butter. Feed, meadow and pumpkins.

John E. MerrilVs Statement.
The cow is six years old, of the Devon breed ; came in the
1st of April. Gave 290 lbs. of milk in June, 165 lbs. in Sep-

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 357

tember. The milk in June I gave to my calves. In Septem-
ber she made, on an average, one pound of butter from twenty-
one pounds of milk. She had pasture in June, and meadow
in September. Feed, very poor, on account of the dry weather.

PiTTSFIELD, Oct. 6, 1852.

Horses.

The display of horses was quite equal, if it did not excel,
those of several preceding years. The number of mares and
colts exhibited was twenty-five. Carriage horses, five ; farm
horses, five ; single horses, ten ; stallions, three.

The mares and colts were generally good — many of them
worthy of much commendation ; and we should have been
glad to have spent more time in their inspection, could we have
had it. If we have erred in our awards, we beg for forbearance.
Could the whole society examine the mares and colts offered
for premium this year, the committee entertain no doubt that
they would not only freely grant the premiums now offered,
but would regret, as the committee do, that they could not
make more awards.

Your committee would not encourage too extensive a taste
for fancy animals, but they cannot withhold their opinion, that
too little care has been given in this county to the breeding
and raising of horses. The difference in cost of the rearing of
a horse worth from $150 to $500, and one worth from $50 to
$80, is but a trifle. Most of our farmers are in the too com-
mon error, that a mare is too good to breed from until she is
too old and unsound to be good for anything else. We have
been shown some very good colts from such mares at this ex-
hibition ; but would not these colts have been much better,
had the same mares brought them while in their prime and
vigor ?

Your committee would recommend that the society give
premiums on yearling, two and three years old colts, as well as
mares and colts, which, we think, would not only encourage
the breeding of the horse more thorough, but be very condu-
cive to the better matching of our matched horses. Provided

358

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

the premiums are small, we trust the community will be satis-
fied with them, and come cheerfully forward and compete for
them. On the part of the competitors, the principal benefit is,
not the taking the prizes, even were they much larger than
those now offered. It is the bringing of the animals promi-
nently to the notice of thousands of persons to whom they
would otherwise never be known. This is an advantage dis-
tinct and truly independent of the awards of premiums. We
award as follows :
For the best breeding mare, colt by her side —

1. Robert Pomeroy, of Pittsfield, . . . $6 00

2. Clark M. Percey, of North Adams, . . 5 00

3. John Gorton, of Hancock, . . . . 4 00

4. Amasa Rice, of Pittsfield, . . . . 3 00
We also recommend extra premiums to

Henry Laxham, of Williamstown, . . . 1 00

H. F. Morrill, of Lenox, 1 00

Charles G. Chapman, of Windsor, . . . 1 00
J. V. Ambler, of Lanesborough, . . . . 1 00
Vassel White, of Stockbridge, . . . . 1 00

Joel Stevens, of Pittsfield, 1 00

For the best pair of farm horses —

1. George O. Peck, of Lenox, . . . . 7 00

2. Nathaniel Cook, of Richmond, . . . 5 00

3. Frederick Washburn, of Lenox, . . . 3 00
Carriage horses —

1. Nathaniel Kellogg, of Pittsfield, . . . 7 00

2. Socrates Squier, of Pittsfield, . . . 5 00
We recommend an extra premium to

J. B. Freeman, of Lee, 2 00

Single horses —

1. M. M. Rice, of Great Barrington, . . • 4 00

2. William Pollock, of Adams, . . * . . 3 00
We recommend extra premiums to

Charles Hinckley, of Lee, ..... 2«00
Bradford Harrison, of Adams, . . . . 2 00
John L. Cooper, of Sheffield, exhibited a young
mare, and Josephus Crafts, of Lee, a horse,
both of which showed good style and speed,
for which we recommend a premium to each, of 3 00

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 359

Stud horses —

1. No award.

2. Seymour Wilcox, of Lanesborough, . . $5 00

Timothy Hall, of Pittsfield, exhibited a stud colt, four years
old, and R. R. Briggs, of Adams, one two years old, neither of
which, in the opinion of your committee, were deserving of
the premiums otfered. Mr. Hall's being very much under size,
and Mr. Briggs' too young to be considered a stud horse.

All which is respectfully submitted,

Edwin Bush, Chairman.

Sheep.

The committee on the third division of domestic animals
have attended to the duty assigned them, and would respect-
fully report, that there were an unusual large number of sheep
on the ground, there having been fifty entries in all — twenty-
five of which were entered as grade — eight fine wool, eleven
coarse wool, and six lots of fat wethers.

The committee were disappointed in finding so few fine
woolled sheep on the ground, and would earnestly call upon
the wool growers of Berkshire to make the exhibition in this
department more respectable in future. Of their ability do so
the committee have not the least doubt. The committee would
also suggest to these same wool growers the propriety of mak-
ing themselves better acquainted with the relative qualities of
the different grades of wool before entering their sheep for pre-
miums. The coarsest buck on the ground and several lots of
coarse ewes were found entered as grade sheep. The commit-
tee award

For the best coarse wool buck —

1. Henry Dresser, of Stockbridge, . . , $5 00

2. Franklin Toby, of West Stockbridge, . . 4 00
For the finest wool buck —

1. Henry Werden, of Richmond, . . . 5 00

2. Alanson Janes, of Adams, . . . . 4 00

360 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

For the best grade buck — •

1. George Butler, of Lenox, . . . . $5 00

2. Elias Werden, of Richmond, . . . . 4 00
For the best five coarse wool ewes —

1. Gen. Williams, of Stockbridge, (full blood

Cotswolds,) 5 00

2. Edward S. Rowley, of Richmond, . . . 4 00

There were four lots of very beatiful fine wool ewes entered
by William Goodenow, of Lanesborough, Amos Raymond, of
Hinsdale, and Amos and Marshall Shepardson, of Lanesbor-
ough, but three of the competitors, having taken premiums at
the last previous exhibition, are by the by-laws excluded this
year.

For fine wool ewes —

1. Marshall Shepardson, of Lanesborough, . f 5 00
For the best grade ewes —

1. Oran Farnum, of Lanesborough, . . . 5 00

2. Socrates Squier, of Pittsfield, . . . 4 00
For the best six fat wethers —

1. Andrew Baldwin, of Great Barrington, . . 5 00

2. Moses G. Tracy, of Richmond, . . . 4 00

3. E. Cady, of Hinsdale, 3 00

For a grade buck, to Jedediah W. Newton, of Lanes-
borough, an extra premium of . . . . 1 00

For some very good coarse wool bucks (which were
entered as grade bucks), to William H. Burghardt,
of Great Barrington, John F. Powell, of Lanesbor-
ough, and James H. Chapin, of Sheffield, each an
extra premium of 1 00

The committee, in closing this report, would respectfully
suggest to the society the propriety of making better arrange-
ments for the future exhibition of sheep. The very promiscu-
ous manner in which the different grades of sheep are mixed
up with swine, breeding mares and colts, &c., &c., makes it
extremely difficult for a committee to decide upon the relative
merit of the competitors.

Respectfully submitted,

Henry C. Squier, Chairman.

BERKSHIRE SOCIETY. 361

Agricultural and Mechanical Implements.

The committee on agricultural and mechanical implements,
report the following awards: —

To S. Reed & Co., of Pittsfield, for a fine display

of agricultural implements, ^3 00

To William K. Gates, of Lee, for spades, forks, &c.,

of great finish, 2 00

To John Webb, of Pittsfield, for a lot of joiners'
planes and moulding tools, of superior workman-
ship, 3 00

To William H. Warner, of Richmond, for a washing

machine, 5 00

These washing machines promise to be to the labors of the
good housewife, what steam is to navigation. While the latter
annihilates time and distance in crossing the ocean or in rush-
ing across continents, the former throws the washing of a
week, a fortnight, or a month, into a pastime of a few moments'
duration, and gives the operator almost the entire day to de-
vote to leisure, or such employment as fancy dictates. We
saw the machine in operation; — dirty shirts were rendered en-
tirely clean and pure in twenty seconds, and napkins in one-
half of the time. When the merits of this machine are fully
known, the response of blushing maidens to suing lovers
will no longer be, " Do you take the papers ?" but, Have you
Miller's patent washing machine ?
To H. W. Chamberlain & Co., of Pittsfield, for a
drafting machine of great convenience and utility
in architectural and mechanical drawing, and one
which no good artist will omit to purchase, . . $3 00
To M. W. Stevens, for a drum of fine martial tones,

and good finish, ....... 2 00

To Stephen W. Halsey, of West Stockbridge, for a

sugar mill, ........ 1 00

To Martin Rees, of West Stockbridge, for a very fine
fanning mill, well worthy of the attention of farm-
ers, 2 00

To Nelson Tracy, for a set or horse shoes, . . 1 00

To John Volk, of Pittsfield, for two beautiful marble
46

362 BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

monuments, "white as the driven snow," with
some very fine specimens of parlor ornaments of
alabaster purity. The design and finish of these
monuments show that Mr. Volk has acquired a
very high and enviable standing as an artist, and
that those who have lost near and dear friends, will
no longer need to send to Italy's sunny clime, nor
even out of our own beautiful Berkshire, for monu-
ments of the finest marble and highest finish, to
perpetate the memory of their friends. . . . $5 00

To William Pierce, of Pittsfield, for a seraphiue of

rich tone and beautiful finish, . . . . 3 00

To C. B. Piatt & Son, of Pittsfield, for hats, caps
and furs, of extraordinary fine texture and finish, . 3 00

To Robert R. Briggs, of Adams, for a pair of horse
collars, of new style and design, adapted to pro-
mote the ease and comfort of the horse in drawing, 2 00

All which is respectfully submitted,

George W. Mead, Chairman.

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 363

HOUSATONIC AGllICULTURAL SOCIETY.

This society was incorporated by act of the legislature, on
the 10th of April, in the year 1848. It had previously been
organized some eight years as a voluntary society, and strug-
gled into life with no aid from the Commonwealth, and attained
comparative prosperity. Its character was then highly respect-
able. From three to five hundred dollars was annually contri-
buted by the farmers of southern Berkshire, and distributed in
premiums for the general encouragement of agriculture in this
highly productive and beautiful section of the State. Since
its incorporation it has acquired a high and permanent posi-
tion, and fairly rivals any society in the Commonwealth. For
the past year a greater interest has been manifested in its pro-
ceedings,— a greater competition has been exhibited in the
honorable and manly strife for excellence, and the amount ac-
tually expended for premiums was greater than in any previous
year.

The objects for which premiums have been offered appear
in the reports hereto annexed, and made a part of this report
and statement. The nature of the encouragement proposed
by the society is agriculture in all its varied interests and ob-
jects,— to elevate the standard of agricultural labor and excel-
lence, and contribute our influence, so far as it may extend, to
make the farmer what God intended he should be — the noblest
specimen of independence and manliness, and the best repre-
sentative of humble toil.

During the past agricultural year great prosperity has pre-
vailed among our agricultural population. The warm summer
matured the various grains and grasses, the only short crop
being grass, owing to the long drought in the month of June.
No signs or appearance of the potato rot has yet developed

364 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

itself. It is believed that the true cause of this disease must
be sought for among the secrets of atmospheric and meteoro-
logical changes, against which no precaution can effectually
guard.

The exhibition of cattle, agricultural implements and pro-
ducts, fruits and flowers, and the products of the dairy and
garden, was larger at our annual fair than ever before. The
annual address, by Hon. G. P. R. James, was an able and elo-
quent production, favorably contrasting English husbandry,
— with which he had great apparent familiarity, — with our
own. He appealed to the agriculturists of the United States
to do for the soil what they had done in the struggles for po-
litical prosperity and social happiness.

This society is happy to record the advances which have
been made in agriculture, stimulated by the patronage of the
State, and those intelligent and enthusiastic friends, who have
incited interest and competition in the development of the
hidden resources of the soil. Our farms are vastly improved
in productiveness ; swamps and barren hill side slopes have
been redeemed from worthlessness, the various soils have been
adapted to the requirements of superior culture, and the
amount of crops has been doubled. Instead of thirty or thirty-
five bushels of corn on an acre, no farmer here competes with
his neighbor unless he feels assured of from sixty to eighty
bushels. The harvest of the smaller grains have filled the gar-
ners, while the cultivation of the sugar beet, the turnip, carrots,
&c., &c., has been successfully attempted. This society would
recommend a greater attention to the cultivation of fruit. It
is believed that the Housatonic Valley, with its warm alluvium,
is admirably adapted for apples, pears, peaches, (in sheltered
situations,) apricots, plums, melons, and cherries. The great
majority of our farmers have heretofore paid little or no atten-
tion to scientific agriculture. They have b^n content to fol-
low in the old beaten track of their fathers, and too often have
contracted a prejudice against book-learned cultivators of the
soil. This prejudice is wearing away.

Respectfully submitted,

ROBT. E. GALPIN, President.

CHAS. N. EMERSON, Secretary.

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 365

Agricultural Productions.

The committee on agricultural productions submit the fol-
lowing report. The society offered $163 to the successful
competitors of agricultural crops. One hundred and sixty
crops were offered for premiums ; the most of them were ex-
amined, a few only being withdrawn. In passing through the
several towns to which the committee were called in the dis-
charge of their duties, in the valleys and on the hills, they
found the spirit of inquiry abroad. A commendable interest
in agricultural improvements was manifested. The farmers
being no longer content with the old traditionary system of
farming, were casting aside exploded notions and substituting
something more rational and reasonable. Fully appreciating
their influence, morally as well as politically, they ivill make
their calling honorable as well as honest. Never were the
prospects of this important class more encouraging than at
the present time. Receiving the attention of scientific men,
new theories are daily proposed and experiments tried. The
influence of the farming interests will be felt beyond the limits
of this Commonwealth. It has received an impetus that will
carry it to the halls of Congress, imperatively demanding of
the general government its attention. It will not stop here.
Its progress is forward and onward. It will revolutionize
peaceably the civilized world, and man will assert his inalien-
able rights.

The often-repeated question, " Will the Housatonic Society
continue and prosper," is being answered. With an amount
contributed by the State equal to that of any other society,
with the voluntary donations of its members, furnishing the
largest premium list in the Commonwealth for its dower, an
enlightened and industrious population, possessing the valleys
watered by the Housatonic for its inheritance, why should it
not continue and flourish.

In accordance with the regulations of the executive commit-
tee, statements have been furnished by most of the competitors.
This wise and salutary requirement, heretofore disregarded,
was not generally understood ; consequently many of the
statements are not prepared with an intention for publication.
This requirement should be persisted in. It is an important

366 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

end whereby knowledge may be disseminated. Its object once
thoroughly understood, and its requisitions complied with, a
large amount of knowledge will be given to the public. The
subject of manures is receiving the attention of the farmers in
Berkshire, as a means of improving their farms ; fifty per cent,
more manure is made and preserved for use now than fifteen
years asro. Barns are being built with cellars under them, for
the purpose of holding fast the liquids as well as solids, until
wanted for use. Swamp muck is used successfully in compost,
and separately, as a fertilizer. Samuel H. Bushnell, Esq., of
Sheflield, has experimented -uith muck in raising corn, with
great success, and we invite attention to his statement. Ro-
tating crops has as yet received but linle attention by the
farmers in this vicinity. Col. Lewis, of West Stockbridge, is
experimenting with rotation of crops with success. Mr. Lewis
stated to the committee that he had increased the value of his
corn crop one-quarter, by this system.

Underdraining is not practised as extensively as it should
be. The committee believe that much of the land in Berkshire
might be made to produce one-quarter more by removing the
surface water. "Whether deep or shallow drains are best must
depend somewhat on the soil. The best materials for con-
structing, whether of stone, wood, or tiles, and many other
questions, might be profitably discussed during the long "^"inter
evenings by farmers clubs, or through the columns of the Cul-
turist, much information might be disseminated. The com-
mittee would recommend to the members of the society- this
paper. Its able editor. Dr. Reed, is indefatigable in his labors
to advance the farming interest, and ought to receive their
patronage. The committee do not hesitate to pronounce it
one of the cheapest papers published, and containing an
amount of matter equal to many of the more costly journals.
The committee will not here present the advantages of under-
draining. Almost every farmer has small stone enough to con-
struct sufficient underdrains for his land. The capital invested
would be labor, and if any one doubts that it would be a pro-
fitable investment, let him examine the premises of Mr. Cyrus
Baldwin, of Egremont. Mr. Baldwin has, within the last
twenty years, constructed three miles of underdrain on his
farm, with small stone. He has made his land, consisting of

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 367

a heavy clay subsoil, the most productive in town, and places
once covered with stagnant water during the summer season,
now as fertile as a garden.

The hay crop this season is a light one, not more than one-
third of a crop in some places, being much injured by the
drought. Fears were entertained for a while that there would
not be the necessary amount of fodder to carry the stock
through the winter. But those fears have been dispersed, and
we are again assured that " He who tempers the wind to the
shorn lamb," orders all things well. Forty pieces of corn were
entered for premium. Seven were competitors for the pre-
mium on four acres, and the remainder for one acre. The
crop is a fair one. The committee believe that as many pre-
miums should be offered on four acres, or on a field of a given
number of acres of corn, as on one acre. Of the cultivated
crops this is the leading and decidedly the most important and
profitable to the farmer in this county. It enters largely into
the farmer's account of food, as the most economical and desir-
able extra grain for working oxen and horses, as food for beef
cattle, hogs, sheep, dairy stock and poultry. Considering the
comparative certainty of obtaining a crop under all the vicissi-
tudes of season, it would be within bounds to say that fifty
per cent, of the entire profits of our agricultural operations flow
directly or indirectly from the production of Indian corn alone.
Various opinions prevail as to the distance that the hills of
corn should be planted from each other. The committee have
examined fields containing from 27 to 64 hills to the square
rod. The field of Marshal Butler, of Lenox, was planted 40
hills to the rod, twelve rowed Dutton corn, and yielded, by the
committee's measurement, 136^ bushels of shelled corn to the
acre. The field belonging to Charles Hinkley, of Lee, con-
tained just 36 hills to the square rod, rows crossing each other
at right angles. Tillotson corn, and the dryest of any exam-
ined. The hills contained five stalks on an average. It was
evident that Mr. Hinkley had taken much pains (as every
farmer should do) in ploughing, marking, and planting his
corn, and is rewarded with a good crop of sound corn, yielding,
according to the committee's measure, 109^- bushels of shelled
corn to the acre. The field of four acres of corn in Great Bar-
rington, belonging to Orrin Curtis, of Sheffield, was a most

368 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

beautiful sight for the eye to behold. Twelve-rowed Button,
31i hills to the rod, and yielding 125 bushels of shelled corn
to the acre, all sound. The majority of farmers plant their
corn too thick ; 30 to 33 hills to the square rod of the twelve-
rowed Dutton will give the greatest yield of corn ; planting
thicker will give mere stalks. Thirty-three to 36 hills to the
rod of the Tillotson or any eight-rowed corn, will produce on
an average a greater yield than if planted nearer together.
From 20 to 50 loads of compost, or barnyard manure, is put
on to the acre, and the average product varies from 30 bushels
to 60 bushels to the acre. This being a staple crop with the
farmers in this county, its growth should be encouraged.

Thirty-four pieces of oats were viewed by the committee.
The growth of straw being very much injured by the drought,
consequently not as large as in former years. This crop, in
southern Berkshire, is almost invariably restricted to land that
has grown corn or potatoes the previous year. It is generally
considered a great impoverisher of the soil, and would be aban-
doned but for the small expense attending its cultivation, and
the convenient time of sowing and harvesting, and grown upon
ground that is generally stocked down with a crop of timothy
or clover. Three bushels of seed to the acre is the quantity
usually sown. Nine fields of winter wheat were viewed, all
of them good and worthy of a premium. In consequence of
the ravages of the fly in previous years this crop had almost
been abandoned. From the successful experiments in wheat
growing, the committee feel assured that the time will speedily
come when the Berkshire farmers will no longer be dependent
upon a foreign market for the staff of life. But three pre-
miums were offered on this important crop, worthy of at least
as many as oats or rye. The quantity of seed sown is two
bushels to the acre. The field belonging to^ Capt. Baldwin, of
Egremont, would not suffer in comparison with the wheat
fields of the Genesee Valley, either in quantity or quality.
His field, containing fifteen acres, yielding 282 bushels by
measure, and 413 by weight, 60 lbs. to the bushel. A little
extra labor in washing or soaking the wheat in brine, and
liming, will prevent the smut. Eighteen pieces of winter rye
were examined, all good, and promising an abundant harvest.
The quantity of seed sown, 1^ bushels to the acre.

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 369

Twenty pieces of potatoes were examined, the best in qual-
ity and quantity since the blight made its appearance in 1843.
In planting this crop, one error is committed. The greatest
yield not being found where there was the most hills to the
rod. Twenty-seven to thirty-six hills to the rod is sufticient
for a profitable yield. Mr. Lyman Huggins, of Sheffield, had
31 hills to the rod; yield, 92 quarts. J. R. Lawton, Jr., of
Great Barrington, 33 hills, yield, 83 quarts. Mr. Lawton being
entitled to a premium on another crop, could not receive one
on potatoes. Mr. Elias Wright, of Monterey, 27 hills, yield,
81 quarts. Mr. Jay Shears, of Sandisfield, 25 hills, yield, 73
quarts. Fourteen pieces of buckwheat were examined, all
good, much better than in some former years. This crop, gen-
erally sown as a chance crop, and being very uncertain,
drought or early frost blasting it very often, the committee do
not deem it necessary to offer very great inducements for en-
couraging its growth. The crops of spring wheat and barley
were very fair. Several pieces of carrots were examined, some
of them promising an abundant yield. The committee ad-
judged that the piece of Jared Man sir, of Monterey, would
yield at the time of digging for winter 1,800 bushels to the
acre. The committee would recommend to the farmers of the
eastern towns, the growing of more roots. Perhaps it may be
said that this season has been propitious for the soil of those
localities, while in a wet season, the land being saturated with
water, becomes heavy, thus rendering it unfit for the growth
of roots. Underdrains would remedy this by carrying off the
surface water. Ten vegetable gardens were examined ; one in
Sheffield, three in Egremont, three in Great Barrington, and
two in Monterey. The committee, regretting, first, that they
had not one at home as good, and secondly, that they had not a
premium to give to each competitor, there being but ^6 offered.
Considering how large an amount of the subsistence of the
family is, and may be derived from the garden, the small in-
vestment of cash capital, the largest share consisting in labor,
thereby bringing it within the reach of all to compete that feel
disposed, the committee do not hesitate to recommend an in-
crease in the number and value of the premiums on vegetable
gardens. \Vhy should not the same encouragement be offered
for cultivating the garden, as for an acre of oats or rye, corn or
47

370

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

potatoes ? A large number of entries were made past the
time fixed by the society, and some few after the committee
had finished viewing. Such could not reasonably expect to
receive the attention of the committee.

In conclusion, we offer our sincere thanks to those who so
generously bestowed their hospitalities, of which we were the
participators.

AH which is respectfully submitted,

J. H. Rowley, Chairman.
Egremont, October, 1852.

Premiums.

The committee on agricultural products award as follows,
to wit: —

For the best acre of winter wheat —

1. Benjamin Baldwin, of Egremont, .

2. Levi Boardman, of Sheffield,

3. F. Cooper, of Sheffield, ....
James Baldwin, of Egremont, an extra premium

For the best acre of spring wheat —

1. Joseph Chapin, of Sheffield, .

2. Joshua R. Lawton, of Great Barrington,

3. Nelson Joyner, of Egremont, .
For the best acre of winter rye —

1. Charles Spurr, of Sheffield, .

2. Norman Wilcox, of Stockbridge, .

3. Jared Lewis, of Great Barrington, .

4. Robert E. Galpin, of Stockbridge, ,

5. J. D. Burtch, of Sheffield,
For the best acre of corn —

1. Marshal Butler, of Lenox,

2. Charles Hinckley, of Lee,

3. Henry Smith, of Lee, ....

4. Stephen N. Karner, of Egremont, .

5. Orange Smith, of Egremont,

6. Henry D. Palmer, of Stockbridge, .
For the best four acres of corn, in one piece —

1. Orrin Curtis, of Sheffield,

$6 00
5 00
3 00

2 00

4 00

10 00

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

371

5 00

4 00

3 00

2 00

3 00

2 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

3 00
2 00

6 00

For the best acre of oats —

1. "Washington Bissell, of Great Barrington,

2. Edson Sexton, of Stockbridge,

3. Edward Plulbert, of Great Barrington, .

4. Merritt I. Wheeler, of Great Barrington,

5. Gorton Rice, of Egremont,
For the best acre of barley —

1. Morgan Lewis, of West Stockbridge, .

2. S. P. Lincoln, of Stockbridge,
For the best acre of buckwheat —

1. Christopher French, of West Stockbridge,

2. A. C. Butler, of Lenox, ....

3. Freeman Houghtailing, of Great Barrington,
For the best acre of white beans —

1. Lorenzo H. Rice, of Great Barrington, .

2. George Hollenbeck, of Egremont, .
For the best acre of potatoes —

1. Lyman L. Huggins, of ShefReld, .

2. Elias Wright, of Monterey, .

3. Jay Shears, of Sandisfield,

4. Milo Hall, of New Marlborough, .

5. Stephen Powell, " « . .
For the best one-fourth acre of carrots —

1. Jared Mansir, of Monterey, .

2. Mark Laird, of Great Barrington, .

3. E. N. Hubbard, of Great Barrington,
Edmund Joyner, of Egremont, an extra premium

For one and three-fourths acre of carrots —
John Brewer, of New Marlborough, .
For the best vegetable garden —

1. Rodney Hill, of Great Barrington, .

2. Rev. G. Clark, of Egremont, .

3. Edwin R. Joyner, of Egremont,

Benjamin Baldivinh Statement.
The field of wheat which I enter for premium, contains fif-
teen acres. Soil, clay loam. It was a pasture lot in 1851 ;
had been seeded, two years previous, with clover, eight quarts
to the acre. Ploughed, between the first and tenth of July,

2 00

3 00

372 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

about five inches deep ; harrowed thoroughly. Ploughed
again in August, and again the first week in September.
Wheat sown the tenth of September, two bushels per acre.
Seed soaked twelve hours in strong brine, and then rolled in
quick-lime, about one bushel of lime to four of wheat. Think
wheat is not as likely to smut when sowed in the above man-
ner. I used twenty-five bushels of the Soule wheat, and five
of the Mediterranean. Harvested the Mediterranean about
the 20th of July, and the Soule ten days later. Yield, sixty
bushels of the Mediterranean, weighing sLxty-four pounds per
bushel, and three hundred and twenty-two of the Soule,
weighing sixty-five pounds per bushel, making three hundred
and eighty-two bushels, by measure, and four hundred and
thirteen bushels, by weight. I passed through the field with
my boys and hired man, about the first of June, taking out a
few scattering stalks of rye, and all foul weeds that we saw.

EgremonTj July, 1852.

>S. H. BnshnelVs Statement.

My field of corn, which yovi examined, contains three acres.
It is not in a high state of cultivation, nor is it any better, or
received any extra culture, more than my other plough land.
It was mowed last year. The year before, I took off a crop
of rye, which was sowed after oats. This spring, before plough-
ing, I put on some twelve or fifteen loads of very coarse straw
manure to the acre, and ploughed it under, eight inches deep,
harrowed it, and furrowed it deep, going twice in a row, about
three feet apart; marked it across the furrows, making thirty
hills on the square rod, which, I think, is about the right num-
ber. I put in the hill a shovelful of muck — nothing but
muck — which had lain in the barnyard during the winter.
And here I wish to bear testimony to th"e value of muck, or
swamp mud, as a manure, particularly in the raising of corn,
having used it successfully for a number of years. Early in
the fall, I get large quantities of it into my barnyards, filling
up all the low places, putting it under my cowhouses, stable
windows, and sheds. Here it becomes warmed up, absorbs
all the urine and other liquids of the yard, which it retains?
and makes it as valuable as the manure from the stable, for

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 373

this crop, and for many other purposes. But, to return : my
corn was planted about the 20th of May, eight quarts of seed
to the acre. "Went through it twice, both ways, with the cul-
tivator, (I never use a plough in my corn or potatoes.) Well
hoed the first time ; after this, but little done to it with the hoe.
Never hill up my corn. A few leached ashes put on to some
of it after the first hoeing. No plaster or anything else used,
or done to the crop.

Every farmer who has muck, or swamp mud, on his farm,
has it in his power, at little expense, to improve the condition
of his land. In order to get a premium, he is not obliged to
put all his manure on one acre, at the expense of the rest of
his farm. I have on my farm, in addition to the piece you ex-
amined, eight acres of corn, all manured in the same way.
There are many ways of composting and making manure, but
I know of no way by which as good manure can be made, at
so little expense.

Sheffield, Sept. 23, 1852.

Ploughing.

Under the favor of Heaven, it is the plough that makes the
harvest joyous. The strong arms of the ploughman, and the
glittering ploughshare, are the instrumentalities that have
changed a world of blight, and penury, and woe, into a world
of fruitfulness, riches, and high enjoyment. No longer do
mortals yield to Ceres the credit of bestowing the ear of corn,
instead of the Chaonian acorn, nor do they longer ascribe to
Bacchus the gift of the grape. The credit is all due else-
where : it belongs to the noble ploughman.

In proportion as society has made progress in the sciences
and arts ; proportionally as man has risen from the first stages
of civilization to the higher ranks of refinement, the invaluable
uses of the plough have been appreciated.

The ingenuity of man has added new forces to the plough,
and higher grades of honor have been attached to it, as true
philosophy has advanced. In witnessing the triumphs of the
plough, we have seen our waste places almost vieing with the
once famed Elysian fields of Greece, and outvieing the re-

374 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

nowncd I^ydian mountain, with its saffron odors. The plough-
share is an emblem of the institutions of our northern clime,
and preeminently does the New Englander walk in glory, when
he walks behind his plough.

He was a public benefactor, who first suggested the com-
peting for victory amongst the knights of the plough. Our
hill tops and fields, rugged as they naturally are, witness this
truth, that since this competition was instituted, new achieve-
ments, as it were, under new auspices, have been gained. The
torn and ragged furrow of olden time, was a type of the back-
ward condition of agriculture and its kindred arts ; the smooth
and beautiful furrow that now adorns our plough-fields, is
equally typical of agricultural advancement, and also of the
cultivation of intellect and of morals. In view of advance-
ments so successful and important, who does not desire to
unite in the acclamation which the better portion of the world
is uttering, — "God speed the plough!"

******

The whole number of premiums provided, is fourteen, giving
a total amount of fifty-six dollars. If within the means of the
society, we would respectfully suggest that the number of pre-
miums for subsequent ploughing matches, be increased to at
least twenty-four, with an aggregate sum of not less than one
hundred dollars.

The number of competitors to-day, was fourteen, viz. : nine
with horses, and five with oxen.

In awarding premiums, we have regarded the rules pre-
scribed by the society, and award as follows :

Horse teams —

1. Edson Sexton, of Stockbridge, time, forty-three

minutes, thirty-three furrows,

2. Joshua R. Lawton, of C4reat Barrington, time

forty-three minutes, thirty-two furrows,

3. John G. Wilson, of West Stockbridge, time

thirty-eight minutes, ....

4. Lebbeus M. Pixley, of Great Barrington, time

forty-five minutes, thirty-one furrows,

5. A. P. Earner, of Egremont, time, thirty-eight

minutes, thirty furrows, . . . • 3 00

$7 00
6 00
5 00
4 00

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

375

6. Leonard Tiittle, of Sheffield, time, forty-five

minutes, thirty-one furrows, . . . . ^2 00

7. Thomas AVood, of Egremont, time, forty-six

minutes, thirty-one furrows, . . . 1 00
Ox teams —

1. J. H. Rowley, of Egremont, time, forty-eight

minutes, thirty-one furrows, . . . 7 00

2. Norman Kellogg, of Sheffield, time, fifty

minutes, thirty-one furrows, . . . 6 00

3. George Burghardt, of Great Barrington, time,

thirty-eight minutes, thirty-one furrows, . 5 00

4. Jonathan Baldwin, of Great Barrington, time,

thirty-seven minutes, thirty-one furrows, . 4 00

5. Jonathan P. Tobcy, of Great Barrington, time,

thirty-eight minutes, thirty-one furrows, . 3 00

The time allowed for the work was one hour, deducting a
rest of ten miimtes, at the end of the first twenty-five minutes.

Respectfully submitted.

Increase Sumner, Chairman.

Oxen and Steers.

The committee on first division of animals report. The
display of fine stock at this exhibition, was truly pleasing and
magnificent, in many respects superior to any former show.
The farmers have fully shown a great taste and judgment in
matching and training their teams, and that competition is no
discouragement to enterprise. They award as follows :
For the best pair of fat oxen —

1. W. C. Langdon, of Monterey, . . . $7 00

2. Pratt Toby, of Great Barrington, . . . 6 00

For the best pair of working oxen —

1. John C. Munson, of Great Barrington, .

2. Almond Bristol, of Lee,
8. J. W. Parks, of Sheffield,

4. Jonathan Baldwin, of Great Barrington,

7 00
6 00
5 00
4 00

376

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

5. B. C. Bcldin, of Sandisfickl, . . . .

6. R Toby, of West Stockbridge,
For the best pair of four year old steers —

1. Rufus C. Fargo, of Monterey,

2. Benjamin Wheeler, of New Marlborough,

3. Luke Harmon, of New Marlborough, .

4. M. Butler, of Lenox,

5. E. Shears, of Great Barrington, .

Your committee would here state, that a very fine
pair were exhibited by Jared Lewis, of Great Bar-
rington, but were excluded from premium by the
rules of the society.

For the best pair of three-year old steers —

1. Mark Laird, of Great Barrington,

2. E. N. Hubbard, " "

3. S. M. Cooper, of Stockbridge,

4. Joseph Wilcox, of Sheffield, .

5. L. S. Butler, of Lenox, .

C 00
5 00
4 00
3 00
2 00

Respectfully submitted,

E. B. Garfield, Chairman.

Milch Cows, Heifers, and Calves.

The committee on the second division of animals, having
attended to the duties assigned them, ask leave to submit the
following report :

There were 20 milch cows, and 11 two-year old heifers,
offered for premiums, nearly all of which were good, and your
committee regret that they have no more ]iremiums to award.
The entries for two-year old and yearling steers was • light.
Your committee award as follows :

For the best yoke of two-year old steers —

1. Luther S. Butler, of Lenox, .

2. Leonard Potter, of New Marlborough,

3. A. P. Karner, of Egremont, .

4. N. KeUogg, of Sheffield,

^5 00
4 00
3 00
2 00

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

377

For the best pair of yearling steers —

1. Elijah N. Hubbard, of Great Barrington,

2. John C. Munson, of « "
8. Benjamin Baldwin, of Egremont, .

For the best yearling heifer —

1. Merrick Rice, of Cireat Barrington,

2. E. S. Rowley, of Richmond, .
For the best milch cow —

1. Edward A. Hulbert, of Great Barrington,

2. E. S. Rowley, of Richmond, .

3. Phineas, Chapin of Great Barrington, .

4. Marshall O. Butler, of Lenox,

5. Horace Ticknor, of (;rreat Barrington, .
And an extra premium to P. Karner, Jr., of Egre

mont, of .
For the best two-year old heifer having had a calf—

1. John H. Coifing, of Great Barrington, .

2. Charles F. Coifing, of « "

3. J. P. Tobey, of » "

For the best two-year old heifer, not having had a
calf—

1. John C. Munson, of Great Barrington, .

2. George G. Pierce, " " . .
For the best heifer calf, to James Dewell, of West

Stockbridge, ........

For the best bull calf, to Nelson Joyner, of Egremont,
A reserved premium, to E. R. Joyner of Egremont,

for a bull calf, of . . . . .
A reserved premium, to Wm. H. Beebe, of West

Stockbridge, for a bull calf, of ... .
For the best bull —

1. E. S. Rowley of Richmond, . . . .

2. Franklin G. Abbey, of Sandisfield,

3. Levi H. Kline, of Egremont, . . . .

4. George Burghardt, of Great Barrington,

2 00

1 00

7 00
G 00
5 00
4 00

W. C. Langdon, Chairman.

378 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

Swine and Poultry.

The committee on the third division of animals, beg leave
to submit the following as their report :

For the best boar —

1. Plynna Karner, Jr., of Egi'emont, .

2. Cyrus Crosby, of Stockbridge,

3. Charles F. Coffing, of Great Barrington,
For the best sow and pigs —

1. Franklin Toby, of West Stockbridge, .

2. E. Kellogg,

A reserved premium to A. F. Barnes, of Great

Barrington, .......

3. William Burghardt, of Great Barrington,
For the best pair of Dorkings, to Edmmid Joyner, of

Egremont, ........

For the best pair of Shanghae, to B. F. Gilmore, of

Great Barrington, .......

For the best pair of common fowls, to M. N. Tuttle,

of Sheffield,

For the best pair of turkeys, to Cyrus Barnes, of West

Stockbridge, ........

For the best pair of geese, to Mason Van Deusen, of

Great Barrington, . . . .
An extra premium to E. R. Joyner, of Egremont, for

a lot of fine turkeys, of .

The owner of one pair of ducks, which were worthy of a
premium was not present.

Elmore Parish, Chairman.

$5 00
4 00
3 00

5 00
4 00

2
3

00
00

Sheep.

The committee on the fourth division of animals, submit
the following report :

The show of animals in this division was far superior to that
of any former year, both as respects numbers and quality. So
nearly alike were many of the lots exhibited, that it has been
with difficulty that we have been able to divide. We have

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

379

endeavored to do justice to all. If we have erred, we ask
your forbearance. "We award the following premiums : —

For the best coarse woolled buck —

1. Lovett Taft, of Sheffield, . . . . $4 00

2. James Baldwin, of Great Barrington, . . 3 00

3. M. M. and H. H. Hollister, of New Marlbo-
rough, 2 00

For the best five fat wethers —

1. A. J. Baldwin, of Great Barrington,

2. H. Cobb, of West Stockbridge, .
For the best fine woolled buck —

1. N. Kasson, of New Marlborough, .

2. N. Cook, of Richmond, ....

3. Leonard Tuttle, of Sheffield, .
For the best middling woolled buck —

1. Ira Curtiss, of Sheffield,

2. G. Burghardt, of Great Barrington,

3. J. G. Wilson, of West Stockbridge,
For the best five coarse woolled ewes —

1. John Taft of Sheffield, ....

2. J. Baldwin, of Great Barrington, .

3. James Kline, of Egremont,
For the best five fine woolled ewes —

1. G. G. Pierce, of Great Barrington,

2. E. A. Hurlbut, of " " . .
For the best five middling woolled ewes —

1. S. H. Bushnell, of Sheffield, .

2. F. Toby, of West Stockbridge, .

Silas Smith, Jr., Chairman.

4 00

Horses.

The committee, to whom was referred the examination of
animals in the fifth division, hav^e attended to that duty, and
submit the following report :

There were submitted to your committee, as competitors for
premium, seven pairs of carriage horses, six pairs of farm
horses and ten as beautiful single horses as ever graced a

380 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

prince's livery. Twelve matronly dams were there, with their
oflfspring, bright and nimble ; each, as it were, with a look of
deep anxiety and jealousy, lest another should be more fortu-
nate than herself and offspring in bearing from the field the
prize for which all had so laudably striven.

Three beautiful studs were exhibited, which for beauty?
speed, and strength of bone and muscle, are seldom excelled
or equalled. One three-year old stud colt, belonging to S. P.
Lincoln, of Stockbridge, whose delicate limbs and nimble step
assured us that he would not remain long in a bad place. M.
I\I. and H. H. Hollister, of New Marlborough, and John G. Wil-
son, of West Stockbridge, each exhibited a beautiful stud colt,
two years old. Five single mares, without foal by side, were
also shown, which for beauty, strength and speed, showed con-
clusively that this indeed is an age of improvement. A three-
year old colt belonging to Leonard Church, Esq., of Lee, broke
to harness, attracted universal admiration ; his size, form and
proportions, in the opinion of your committee, have never been
surpassed, if equalled, by any three-year old colt exhibited to
this society.

The exhibition of horses, in our opinion, exceeds all former
ones, and gladly would we, were it in our power, award to
each and every competitor a premium, {for all deserved it,) but
are reminded, that in a race all run, but some one only can
win the first prize. We therefore award as follows :

For the best pair of farm horses —

1. Nathaniel Cook, of Richmond, . . . $6 00

2. Nelson Joyner, of Egremont, . . . . 5 00

3. A. C. Russell, of Great Barrington, . . 4 00

4. C. Leet, of West Stockbridge, . . . 3 00
For the best pair of carriage horses —

1. A. F. Barnes, of Great Barrington, . . 5 00

2. W. W. Woodworth, of Great Barrington, . 4 00
A reserved premium to L. B. Miller, of Great '

Barrington, ....... 3 00

For the best single horse —

1. Charles Hudson, of Great Barrington, . . 3 00

2. A reserved premium to Merrick Rice, of Great
Barrington, 2 00

HOUSATONIC SOCIETY. 381

For ihe best single mare, to Fredericlc F. Cooper, of

Sheffield, $3 00

For the best breeding mare and colt by her side —

1. Marshall Brace, of Stockbridge, . . . 5 00

2. Charles F. Coffing, of Great Barrington, . 4 00

3. Henry Bnrch of Sheffield, . . . . 3 00
For the best stnd horse —

1. Edmund Bush, of Sheffield, . . . . 5 00

2. L. B. Miller, of Great Barrington, . . . 4 00
Your committee recommend that a reserved pre-
mium be awarded to Sidney P. Lincoln, of
Stockbridge, for a three years old stud colt, of 1 00

For the best two years old stud colt —

1. J. G. Wilson, of West Stockbridge, . . 1 00

2. M. M. & H. H. Hollister, of New Marlborough, 1 00
They also recommend a reserved premium to

Leonard Church, of Lee, for the best three

years old colt, broke to harness, of . . . 2 00

In submitting this report, your committee would say, they
have found it very difficult even to satisfy themselves, where
so near an equality universally prevailed, which should be first
to receive a premium. We cannot dismiss the subject without
mentioning a beautiful pair of carriage horses belonging to
Hiram Crittenden, Esq., of Great Barrington ; also a fine span
of bay horses belonging to George O. Peck, Esq., of Lenox,
which, had they not been excluded by the rules of the society,
would have received something more real than a passing
notice. Also, a span of beautiful carriage horses, belonging to
W. W. HoUenbeck, of Great Barrington, and many others
worthy of more than a passing notice. We therefore recom-
mend that the society greatly increase the number and amount
of premiums on this most noble and useful animal.

Daniel B. Fenn, Chairman.

Grass Seed.
The committee on grass seed have attended to the duties
of their appointment, and respectfully submit the following
report : —

382 HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

The whole number of entries was nine, but seven only could
compete for the premiums offered by the society, two being
excluded on account of quantity. After a careful and full ex-
amination, your committee believe that the show was decidedly
better and surpassing all former exhibitions in extent and
quality, which shows plainly that this branch of industry and
improvement is on the march. Your committee award the
premiums offered by the society, in the following manner : —

For the best two bushels of grass seed —

1. E, C. Carter, of Stockbridge, . . . . $4 00

2. Samuel Goodrich, of Stockbridge, . . . 3 00
8. E. N. Hubbard, of Great Barrington, . . 2 00

Your committee offer the following extra premiums of one
dollar each, for very fine specimens : To Edson Sexton, of
Stockbridge, Orrin Curtiss, of Sheffield, George B. Cook, of
Sheffield, and Isaac Burghardt, of Great Barrington.

Benjamin Baldwin, Chairman.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 383

NORFOLK COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'.

In obedience to the statutes of the Commonwealth, the
President and Secretary of the Norfolk Agricultural Society
herewith make return of the doings and expenditures of said
society, for the year 1852.

The income of its funds, the bounty of the Commonwealth,
and the exertions of its Trustees, have been devoted, as usual,
to the objects enumerated in the act of incorporation, viz.: —
"the encouragement of agriculture, horticulture, manufactur-
ing and mechanic arts, in the county of Norfolk, by premiums
and other means." The progress and usefulness of the society
have been commensurate with the promises and expectations
of those who established it, and the results are witnessed in
the increased interest manifested in agricultural pursuits ; in
the improvement of stock ; in the more general care and skill
displayed in the cultivation of farms; in the more general dif-
fusion of agricultural knowledge ; in the planting of fruit and.
ornamental trees, and in the promotion of rural tastes and dis-
positions among the people. Since the organization of the
society, a large number of animals, of the best breeds, have
been brought into the county from foreign countries and other
States, and our shows, in this department, compare favorably
with those of other and older societies in the Commonwealth.
An increased interest is exhibited in the reclamation of lands,
and considerable sums have been expended in adding to the
appearance and profit of farms in this respect. A much greater
attention than formerly, is paid to the cultivation of fruits, and
the extensive planting of the apple, the pear and the peach,
attest the new spirit which animates the cultivator. The
awakened ambition and energy of the farmer, have served also
to impel the inventors and manufacturers of agricultural im-

384 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

plements, to put forth all their skill in the invention of new
implements and machines, whereby the industry of the laborer
is rendered more productive and more easy. Information upon
agricultural subjects is sought with greater avidity, and books
and papers are more widely circulated and more extensively
read. These are some of the proofs that the bounty of the
Commonwealth bestowed for the encouragement of agricul-
tural societies, has not been wasted, and that the societies
themselves are fuliilling the designs for which they were estab-
lished.

For the first time in the history of the society, two days
were this year devoted to the annual exhibition — the first, to
the reception of the articles intended for premium and the
examination of the judges, and the second, to the public dis-
play and the usual intellectual exercises. This arrangement
gave general satisfaction, in affording the means for a more
thorough examination of articles presented for premium, and
also in affording to the numerous judges an opportunity to
witness the general display, and of partaking in the ceremo-
nies of the show.

A larger number of teams than usual participated in the
ploughing match, which afforded a most animating and agree-
able scene, and the spading match — a new feature — excited
a lively interest, and attracted a numerous throng of specta-
tors. To what extent spade-husbandry can profitably be
adopted in this country, we are not prepared to state ; but
when we consider that this system of preparing the soil for
the seed is the height of good cultivation, it may not be im-
proper to call the attention of the public to this operation.

The exhibition of stock was equal or superior to former
years, and although the blood-stock owned by the Massachu-
setts Society for the Promotion of Agriculture, which was
exhibited last year, was withheld, its place was filled by other
contributions, sufficient to sustain the reputation and honor of
the society.

The number of horses on exhibition, was larger than at any
former show. In this department a decided improvement has
taken place, and judging from what has been done within the
last two years, we may confidently anticipate that these efforts
will not only prove of pecuniary advantage to those engaged

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 385

in rearing this most valuable of all animals, but will also add
to the increasing wealth of our country.

In the departments of swine and poultry, the high character
heretofore established by our exhibitions was fully maintained;
and there was a liberal and creditable display of fruits, flowers
and vegetables, the former constituting, as usual, a prominent
feature of the exhibition. The sum awarded in premiums, was
greater than in any preceding year since the organization of
the society, owing to the extension of the list, and the increased
number of contributions. The exhibition, as a whole, was
highly successful, indicating an increased interest on the part
of the farmers, and a progress in the several branches of agri-
cultural industry.

The address which accompanies this report, was delivered
by W. S. King, Esq., of Rhode Island, and was listened to
with much attention and interest by a large and appreciating
audience.

The company dined under a spacious tent erected for the
purpose, and the ceremonies of the table were concluded with
speeches and sentiments adapted to the occasion.

This rapid sketch of the proceedings of the society for the
current year, will be found more fully illustrated in the accom-
panying reports, which are respectfully submitted.

MARSHALL P. WILDER, President.
EDWARD L. KEYES, Secretary.

Farms.

Your committee are obliged to state, with regret, that the
indisposition of farmers to compete for the liberal premiums
offered by this society, has been strikingly exhibited the pres-
ent year. We also venture to recommend, that, hereafter, the
committee on farms be divided into sub-committees, residing
in different sections of the county, w^ho shall ascertain, by per-
sonal observation or inquiry, the actual condition of those sec-
tions with reference to the character of the soil ; the usual
methods of cultivation ; the crops most generally grown, with
49

386 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

the average cost and net profits of them ; the improvements
made upon meadows and waste lands, with the expense and
result of them ; and all such facts pertaining to the subject as
will enable them to present, in a combined report, a general
view of the agriculture of the county. We believe that the
results of such a measure would be much more serviceable than
are the reports, which necessarily embrace only the condition of
a few particular farms. Competition for the premiums offered
by the society may still be invited, and, "we think, would be
increased. One of the chief causes of the want of competi-
tion, which we so much regret, consists, perhaps, of a vague
apprehension of inferior claims to success, which a compre-
hensive view of the agriculture of the county might remove.

Your committee venture to recommend, also, a more thor-
ough comminution of the soil to be prepared for any crop, and
commingling of the manure applied to it, than is generally
obtained in the ordinary methods of cultivation. We appre-
hend that the neglect of this entire disintegration of the earthy
particles, and intimate blending with them of fertilizing sub-
stances, is the cause of many failures in our agricultural ex-
periments, and of many complaints of the barrenness of our
soils. It is often the result of what is intended to be a pru-
dent and economical management of a farm ; but a saving of
labor and expense here, will generally prove injudicious, by a
large diminution of expected crops. The well known fertility
of alluvial soils in our own State, and of the rich bottom lands
in the Western prairies, is, in part, the consequence of the fine-
ness of their constituent particles, " giving them," as it has
been said, " a superior power for the absorption, retention and
condensation of moisture, carbonic acid and aiumonia, with
an opportunity for the free permeation of atmospheric air, and
a facility for the rootlets of plants to extend, and to receive
and appropriate nourishment."

Experience and observation have forced upon us the convic-
tion that manures act most serviceably, in the cultivation of
any crop, when deposited near to the surface of the ground.
Taking this remark in connection with what had preceded it,
the cultivator cannot bestow too much pains upon the deep and
repeated ploughing of the soil, and the immediate and many
times repeated haiTowing in of manure spread upon its surface.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 387

It will be highly useful, as well as gratifying, to know what
may be the result of such a method of cultivation as we have
here in view and would recommend. We hope the result of
several experiments, upon this plan, will be given us at the
close of the ensuing year ; that it may be shown whether a
faithful and laborious, perhaps expensive preparation of the
soil, is justified by increased profits to the cultivator.

The only farm which was entered for the premiums of the
present year, is that of Mr. Hiram W. Jones, of Dover. Your
committee had no opportunity to visit this farm before the first
week in September. The condition of it, however, was famil-
iarly known by some of our number. A thorough examination
of it, during our visit, served to increase our admiration of its
general appearance, and of the judicious and successful method
in which it was cultivated. We observed, in particular, the
thorough draining of the land ; the firm and smooth surface of
productive mowing grounds, which had once been wet and
unprofitable meadows, or worthless and unsightly bogs ; the
judicious composting and application of manures ; the arrange-
ment of the barn, the cattle-yard and the hog-sty, so as to com-
bine the greatest convenience and utility ; the careful selection
and preservation of tools and carts ; and various contrivances
for lessening labor and expense, and for increasing comfort
and profit.

It may be said of many farms, that they are waste places in
a double sense. But not so can it be said of this. There is
in every part of the farm ample proof not only of good cultiva-
tion, but also of most diligent care. Every tool and implement
appeared to be in its proper place, and in fit condition for use.

The accompanying statement by Mr. Jones, will afford the
proper information respecting his usual mode of cultivation
and its results. Your committee will only add that this farm
appears to have been steadily improving since the fi.rst exami-
nation of it, in 1849 ; and that we now accord to Mr, Jones
the society's first premium of $25.

By invitation of Aaron D. Weld, Esq., of West Roxbury,
your committee visited his farm on the 3d of October. Seve-
ral hours were here spent in careful examination of extensive
improvements, exhibiting at once good judgment and practical
skill, and which, we doubt not, will render this one of the most

388 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

productive, as it now is one of the most attractive and elegant
farms, in this part of the county. Everything we had oppor-
tunity to notice here, was fitted to give instruction and encour-
agement; and afforded ample proof of Mr. Weld's own interest
in agriculture, and of the faithful cooperation of those whom
he employs upon this large estate.

We understand that this farm has been entered for the pre-
mium to be paid in 1855, to the successful competitor in
progressive husbandry ; and that a minute and comprehensive
report of its condition will then be presented. We shall only
add our testimony, therefore, to its manifest improvement since
the last year, and its admirable appearance at the present time,
and express our grateful acknowledgments to Mr. Weld, for
the polite and gratifying attentions we received.

For the committee,

C. C. Sewall.

H. W. Joneses Statement.

The farm entered by me for premium, contains one hundred
and ten acres. Of this, twenty acres are woodland, and forty
are used as pasture. The remainder originally consisted of
sandy plains, peat and bog meadows, pond holds and alder
swamps, upon which grew meadow moss, coarse grass, blue-
berry bushes and sheep laurel.

About twelve years ago, I reclaimed about half an acre ad-
joining the upland, and succeeded so well that I was encour-
aged to proceed. By draining thoroughly by open drains,
three feet wide at the top, and one and a half feet wide at the
bottom, and from two to five feet deep — by ploughing in some
places, paring and burning in others, and in others covering
with sand — I have caused about twenty-two acres, that were
nearly worthless, to yield good crops of English hay, so that
instead of cutting four or five tons as formerly, it now produces
from thirty to thirty-five tons. The principal crops' are hay,
corn, rye, oats, and potatoes ; these, with the exception of the
rye, are consumed upon the farm in making beef, pork, and
milk, thereby furnishing a good supply of manure. About an
equal quantity of soil is mixed with the manure in the barn
cellar, when it is to be used near, and in the field, if to be used

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 389

at a distance. About one-half of this is used as a top-dressing
upon mowing land, in November, spread from the cart, and
the rest is used in manuring grain, roots, and vegetables.

Both horses and oxen are used. The oxen, by advance in
value, more than pay for their keeping, and being changed an-
nually, leave their labor as net profit. Milk is furnished for
the Boston market from October to May. The rest of the
time, young calves are bought at Brighton and fattened for
market, there being at this season no demand for milk for
market. From ten to twenty swine are kept, and when none
but the best kinds are raised, they are found to be profitable ;
they are fed with corn on the cob, apples and vegetables, and
their drink is meal, or shorts an.d water. Barnyard fowls are
the most profitable stock kept on the farm ; forty or fifty of
them, in eggs and chickens, pay one dollar each, net profit,
yearly. Sufficient help is employed to attend to everything
at the right time, and proceed with improvements. None but
the most approved tools are bought, and none are borrowed.
Fruit trees have been set out, which produce sufficient fruit to
supply the family with various kinds, and have a surplus for
market. Most of the hay is raked with Delano's Independent
horserake, which I consider to be the rake, after a trial of
several. The threshing is performed by horse power.

Dover, Nov. 5, 1852.

PLOUGHING.

Double Teams.

The whole number of double teams entered for the plough-
ing match, was ten ; and the performance of all of them was
very creditable. The ground selected was smooth land, with
a firm sward, and was turned with great exactness in most
cases, some of the teams ploughing nine inches in depth. The
average time was thirty-five minutes, each land containing one-
eighth of an acre.

The operations of the plough are greatly modified by cir-
cumstances,— the condition and quality of the land, the season

390 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

of the year, and the crop proposed to be cultivated. In break-
ing up an old field for the common purpose of increasing the
fertility of the soil, the depth of the furrow should be limited
only by the strength of the team ; the more earth exposed, the
more perfect the operation. In breaking up a field in the au-
tumn, with the design of cross ploughing and planting in the
spring, lapping the furrow slices" is supposed to hasten the de-
composition of the sod. In the spring, however, where the
harrow alone is to be used after the plough, the more complete
the inversion of the sod the better.

The most important crop in our vicinity is hay, and much
difference of opinion exists among farmers as to the application
of the plough in reference to this production. Upon moist
lands, very good crops of grass are raised by inverting the sod
with care, and sowing on the bottom ; but the want of deep
ploughing is said to show itself soon, in the early diminution
of the crops. Thorough ploughing, continued for two years,
with fallow crops, carefully weeded, avoiding fresh manure the
second year, is the surest basis of an enduring and heavy
growth of hay, and the only way to eradicate the ribwort, the
whiteweed and the buttercup, the greatest enemies of our hay
crops.

For the committee,

James M. Robbins.

September, 1852.

Single Teams.

The committee on ploughing with single teams, award the
following premiums : —

E. W. Robinson, Dorchester, Ruggles, Nourse & Ma-
son's plough, first premium, $10 00

Benjamin V. French, Braintree, Prouty & Mears's

plough, second premium, . . . . . . 9 00

Lemuel W. Babcock, Milton, Prouty & Mears's

plough, third premium, . . . . . . 8 00

Henry Goulding, Dover, Prouty & Mears's plough,

fourth premium, 7 00

Nt)RFOLK SOCIETY. 391

J. Willard Daniels, Medway, Prouty & Mears's plough,

fifth premium, $6 00

Timothy Tucker, Milton, Prouty & Mears's plough,
sixth premium, 5 00

Luther Eaton, Chairman.

Horse Teams.

The committee on ploughing with, horse teams, respectfully
report : —

There were eight teams entered for premium. The compet-
itors were notified, that if the Wjork was completed within the
time prescribed, and of the required depth, the quality of the
work alone would determine the award. All the competitors
completed their work within the time, and of the required
depth, wath one exception. The work was well done, and the
discipline of the teams generally good ; and your committee
believe, on no occasion, considering the uneven surface of the
ground allotted to the horse teams, has such perfection in
ploughing been exhibited. Where all did so well, it was hard
to discriminate ; but after a careful examination of the work,
they award as follows : —

To Benjamin V. French, of Braintree, Prouty &

Mears's plough, first premium, . . . . $8 00

To Hiram W. Jones, of Dover, Ruggles, Nourse &

Mason's plough, second premium, . . . . 6 00

To I. H. Meserve, of Roxbury, Ruggles, Nourse & Ma-
son's plough, third premium, . . . . . 4 00

To B. N. Sawin, of Dover, Ruggles, Nourse & Ma-
son's plough, fourth premium, 2 00

To George B. Cook, of Bellingham, Martin & Co.'s

plough, a gratuity of 2 00

Horatio N, Glover, Chairman.
QuiNCY, Nov. 10, 1852,

392 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Spading.

The committee appointed to award the premiums of the
Norfolk Agricultural Society for the best spading, have at-
tended to the duty assigned to them, and beg to present the
following report : —

The practice of turning up the earth by some kind of an in-
strument, guided by the hand, resembling what we now call a
spade, is probably the most ancient and the most original
method of preparing the soil for the seed.

But, like everything else in the world, the spade in the hand
of the thinking and industrious man, is quite a different in-
strument to what it is in that of the mere plodder, the thought-
less and careless laborer.

Hence there exists such an idea in the philosophy of using
the spade, as well as one of fair comparison between its value
and that of the plough, or other instruments for tilling the land.

There are two ways of commencing the operation of digging
a plot of ground. One is by opening a trench along one side
of the piece, and carrying the earth therefrom to a line paral-
lel on the other side, so that the soil from the second is turned
into the first trench. The other is by commencing at a corner
and digging along in diagonal lines, by which the labor of car-
rying the earth from the first trench is avoided.

The spade should be pushed into the ground nearly, perhaps
not quite, perpendicularly, in parallel rows, the distance of
which from each other depending somewhat on the nature of
the soil ; in any case, however, not exceeding eight inches. It
should be carefully lifted and the load turned over, so that the
earth from below may lie on the top ; the large clogs should
be coarsely broken.

Careless spading is when the spade is pushed down in a
slanting direction, say at an angle of about forty-five degrees ;
by this means the work is done in much less time, but the
earth is only stirred for the roots, &c., half as deep, and a
greater portion of the upper surface, which has been exhausted
by the previous crop, remains at the top. Sometimes, even,
the spade is only inserted half way down, and after giving it a
knowing twist, to loosen the soil, so that it may be raked even,
is again withdrawn.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 393

Another error committed by many good hands at spading,
is breaking the clods too fine. This beautiful dressing, which
makes the surface look so handsome and even and is consid-
ered quite an attainment by some gardeners, is by no means
desirable ; the earth should be left as open as possible in rea-
son so that air and moisture may have free access.

These observations should be attended to by young hands
particularly, as a habit of careless spading is not readily
changed. Careless spading, in fact, is nothing but shovelling.

Suppose, then, spading to be thoroughly done, the next
question is, how does it compare in value with ploughing or
other methods of stirring the soil ? The plough generally pen-
etrates the soil from five to seven inches; the furrows are
turned so that the top of the land is only partially reversed,
and the sods of grass do not decay, but vegetate and use up a
portion of the manure with which the land is dressed. On
the other hand, the spade penetrates nine inches, the upper
surface is placed underneath, and any gi-ass sods may, by care,
be so completely reversed that they decay and serve as food
for plants, instead of appropriating that w^hich was not in-
tended for them.

The soil at about eight inches below the surface is always
the richest, particularly in light lands, as the pieces of manure,
leached down by rains, is generally retained by it; hence the
value of having it near the surface.

The experiment has often been tried to ascertain the com-
parative value of spading and ploughing, and although, of
course, the first is the most expensive, yet the excess of pro-
ductiveness of the spaded land has often more than repaid the
excess of expense.

An eminent horticulturist in the vicinity of Boston has, for
the last six or seven years, pursued the following practice of
spading, with the best success. In the autumn his land is dug
over, leaving eighteen inches from the centre of the trench to
the crown of each ridge. In the spring his manure, (chiefly
guano and gypsum, although any other manure would an-
swer,) is strewed in the trenches where it is turned over by the
spade. A portion of one ridge, about two inches in depth, is
drawn over this, the seed sown, and the other portion of the
ridge raked over them, or cabbages may be planted in the
50

S94 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

trenches in the same way. In the following autumn, trenches
are made where the ridges were before ; thus the soil undergoes
complete rotation, and no more manure is used than the crops
require ; in other words, none is wasted by being put where
the only crop is weeds.

For carrots this method is particularly beneficial, as, if the
trenches are spaded pretty deep after putting on the manure
(guano) and the whole of the ridge is hauled over it, then a
little guano scuffled into the surface before the seed is sown,
the whole ground is light and well manured below, so that the
root of the carrot can be coaxed down to a great depth in
search of food, and without any impediment to its growth.

There is no exercise more healthy for man than sjjading.
The , whole of the muscles are brought into play in their natural
direction. Any one who has for the first time attempted to
swing the scythe, will well understand this observation. The
muscles here are laboriously moved in an unnatural direction,
and much pain and fatigue are the consequence. If many of
our commercial citizens, who lead a sedentary life, would take
an hour's spell at spading early in the morning before coming
to business, they would, we think, obtain a rich crop of health ;
and if the land was kept for nothing else but to be spaded
over, the produce we beUeve would amply repay them.

With these few general remarks, which your committee
trust may not be considered as inappropriate, they proceed to
state the names of the parties to whom they awarded the pre-
miums, viz. : —

1st prem., for the best spading, to Patrick Donahoe, $5 00

" next best "

Patrick Argo,

4 00

(( U ((

Timothy Hickley,

3 00

4th

(( (( ((

John Cox,

2 00

5th

u u u

Dennis Doody,

1 00

All which is respectfully submitted for the committee,

Samuel Walker, Chairman.
RoxBURY, Nov., 1852.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 395

Agricultural Implements.

The committee on agricultural implements, regret, like their
predecessors of the years 1850 and 1851, that they are obliged
to report that few specimens were exhibited, and those of arti-
cles in common use among our farmers generally. They were
hay and manure forks, and potato diggers, from the manufac-
tories of Henry Partridge, Jr., of Medfield, and Francis Morse,
of South Dedham. The implements of Mr. Partridge have
long been familiar to the public, and their reputation has been
established by the testimony of the farmers of New England
and the principal agricultural societies of this and other States.
He has kept pace, not only with the improvements of others,
but has, in some material points, taken the lead in model and
design, so that his implements are not surpassed by those of
any other manufacturer. Those exhibited were clothed with
no extra finish, but were in the ordinary state of his wares
when sent to market. They exhibited a great advance in im-
provement as compared with those in use not many years
since, in shape, lightness and temper, and aflbrded the most
striking testimony of the aid rendered by mechanical skill and
ingenuity to the business of the farmer. The implements of
Mr. Morse were not only of the same general character as
those exhibited by Mr. Partridge, but were manufactured after
nearly the same models, and were nearly of the same descrip-
tion. They were of superior finish and of a high order of
workmanship. They were very beautiful in appearance and
attracted the attention of many spectators. The committee
have no reason to believe that they were not equal in temper
and all the characteristics of good implements with those
offered by Mr. Partridge, and found some difficulty in coming to
a conclusion upon the subject of awarding the premiums. The
historical reputation attached to those of Mr. Partridge, how-
ever, was permitted to have some weight, as the knov^n quali-
ties of his implements, which have been so long and highly
appreciated, could not be placed second to any others that had
not been as thoroughly tested by experience. The committee,
however, were well convinced of the merits of the articles
manufactured by Mr. Morse, and have no hesitation in ex-

396 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

pressing their belief, that they will stand the test of trial, and
finally acquire a reputation by experience equal to that which
they acquired by observation.

These comprised the whole exhibition of agricultural imple-
ments. Formerly it was the custom of manufacturers of and
dealers in these articles, to send liberal contributions to the
various county shows, which tended to add interest to the
latter and to increase their attraction ; as nothing can be more
appropriate at an agricultural exhibition than those implements
which are the symbols of that great and almost universal em-
ployment. The trouble and expense, however, of contributing
to the numerous annual exhibitions was at length considered
to be more burdensome than profitable, and an agreement was
entered into on the part of the manufacturers to withhold their
contributions. It is not for the committee to question the
competency of these parties to conduct their business in the
most profitable manner ; but it seems not unreasonable to sup-
pose that in a business so progressive as that of the manufac-
ture of agricultural implements, there should be enough im-
provements in the old, and enough inventions of new ones, to
make up a respectable show annually, of such as are worthy
of inspection, which have not before been generally adopted,
and which have not passed the ordeal of a public and critical
examination. The farmer and agricultural implement maker
are mutually bound together by the strongest ties of interest,
and the same stimulus which promotes the advancement of
the one, operates equally to the advantage of the other.

Agricultural organizations and cattle shows, serve to awaken
the attention of farmers to the necessity of employing all the
aids which mechanical skill and invention can supply, and
thereby increases the demand on that skill, and every aid
which the latter can contribute to the success or prosperity of
the former, is so much contributed to its own. And' it is ob-
served that while the manufacturers and dealers are withhold-
ing that aid which they formerly bestowed upon the annual
shows, they are not unmindful of the advantage to be derived
from the ploughing matches, and seem still to take a peculiar
and warm interest in having those instruments which are for-
tunate enough to secure premiums carefully recorded by their
names and titles, together with the names of their manufactu-

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 397

rers, in the reports and transactions of the several societies.
When the reputation of an implement has become thoroughly
established, and its properties well known to the public gene-
rally, it may not be useful or expedient to burden exhibitions
with it year after year; but with the thousand changes, altera-
tions, improvements and new inventions which are being made
and taking place constantly, there is enough to contribute
vastly to the interest of exhibitions, and the public display of
which could not fail to be conducive to the interests of manu-
facturers and farmers.

, In New York the implement department is one of the most
varied and interesting of their exhibitions. The State society
of that great State, to be sure, offers a wider field for display
than our county societies, and the extent of the farming in
that section has been the means of the introduction and use
of a large number of machines but little known among the
small farmers of New England; but there can be no good
excuse for the abandonment entirely of a plan here, which is
carried out on a scale so extensive, and so conducive to public
improvement, there. To show at once something of the extent
and variety of those exhibitions and the character of the imple-
ments and machines common in New York, and which are
rarely seen in this Commonwealth, we copy the following
names of articles for which premiums were awarded there in
1850.

" Corn Cultivator ; Fanning Mill ; Cornstalk Cutter ; Corn
and Cob Crusher; Horserake ; Grain Cradle; Six-hand
Rake ; Threshers, to be used with horse or steam power ;
Seed Planter ; Grain Drills ; Broadcast Sower ; Wheat Culti-
vator ; Portable Saw Mill ; Corn Sheller ; Vegetable Cutter,"
&c. &c.

We find in a newspaper the following account of the " Horse
Drill," a machine of great labor-saving power.

" This machine will plant wheat, rye, Indian corn, oats, peas,
beans, ruta-bagas, &c., and can be regulated to drop any re-
quired quantity on an acre. The drills can be thrown in or
out of gear separately, so as to plant a field of any shape with-
out seeding any part twice. They are so arranged as to ope-
rate well on all kinds of land, — hilly and rough, as well as
level and smooth. A man with two horses can put in from

398 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

ten to twelve acres with wheat in a day ; and with one horse
he can plant twenty acres of corn per day."

We also copy from a newspaper the following account of a
machine for digging potatoes.

" The machine embraces a scoop, a brush cylinder and end-
less apron, connected by a movable frame, by operating with
the scoop is made to enter the ground the required distance,
and raise up the potatoes, which, by a cylinder having a re-
volving brush, the potatoes are brought forward from the
scoop to the endless apron, which carries them away and de-
posits them in a receptacle at the back of the frame. The
machine is designed to be worked by horses. The bottom of
the scoop, also the bottom of the receptacle for the potatoes, is
formed of bars, to separate the dirt from the potatoes ; the
brush also removes the dirt, so that they are rendered very
clean."

The public are already familiar with the celebrated reaper,
which was the pride of America and the wonder of the world,
at the fair recently held in London. Formerly such a machine
would have been regarded as the enemy of the laborer in its
character of substitute for his services ; but experience has
taught that the condition of all classes is improved by such
substitution, and that comforts are increased and civilization
advanced by means of the application of power to multiply
the products of the earth and mitigate the severities of labor.

Agriculture, being the mother of the arts and the sole reli-
ance of civilized man for the means of subsistence, and its
operations having been in a great degree dependent upon the
application of muscular strength, it has naturally followed that
the greatest attention has been bestowed, in modern times at
least, upon the means for facilitating the labors of the hus-
bandman, and to mitigate the hardship of his toil. And thus
we find the experience of the farmer, the ingenuity of the in-
ventor, and the skill of the mechanic, have combined, from the
earliest periods, in endeavors to improve every species of agri-
cultural implement, and to enlarge the sphere of them until we
are prepared to contrast the grand and beneficial results of to-
day with the feeble beginnings and rude attempts of our an-
cestors. It is hoped that these endeavors will not cease, but
by the aid of agricultural societies and the patronage bestowed

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 399

by governments, they will be stimulated and encouraged for
the advancement of agriculture, and thereby of the public wel-
fare.

Edward L. Keyes, Chairman.

Sheep.

The committee on sheep, respectfully report, that the only
flock entered for premium, was that exhibited by Mr. Hemy
Liversidge, of Dorchester. This flock was a very fair one, and
appeared to be in good health and condition. It consisted of
three South Downs and three Cheviots. There was among
them a full blood South Down buck, of very good form and
size, having a full, even fleece of wool, of good quality (for
South Down). The committee did not think, however, that
the whole flock possessed such points of superiority as to enti-
tle them to the first premium.

They have, therefore, awarded to Mr. Henry Liversidge, of
Dorchester, the second premium, of $3.

The committee regret that so little interest is manifested in
the raising and improving of this valuable stock in Norfolk
county. They believe there are many farms in this county,
well adapted to the keeping of sheep, and that if our farmers
would, in such cases, keep a fair proportion of sheep, it would
improve their farms, and yield a better profit than is gained
by keeping difiierent stock altogether.

Sheep will consume much feed that is left by other stock
and lost, and at the same time will enrich the ground, and give
it a much smoother appearance.

The Spanish Merino sheep, crossed with the South Down
or the Leicester, produce a heavy fleece, about the quality of
wool most used in this county, and grow hardy, of large size,
and good for the butcher.

Both wool and mutton are in good demand in this county,
and generally bring such prices that we need not seek for a
market elsewhere.

There is annually worked up in the factories of Norfolk
county, about half a million pounds of wool, for which is
paid, in cash, about two hundred thousand dollars. AH this

400 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

goes out of the county. A part, at least, and we think a
large part, might be as well supplied from our own farms.
From the best information we have been able to obtain, there
is not annually raised in this county at the present time, nor
has there been for a number of years, one thousand dollars
worth of wool. Let the same interest be felt for raising and
improving sheep, which there has been for raising and improv-
ing swine, during the last few years, and our annual exhibi-
tions would present as fine a show of sheep as we have seen
this year of swine; and we believe the profit to the farmer
would be as great. There have been imported within a year
or two, some very superior French Merino sheep, that will
shear from fifteen to thirty pounds of wool, each. The chair-
man of the committee has examined both the full and the half
blood sheep of this stock, and has never before seen any equal
them. They cost, at this time, rather more than our small
farmers can afford to pay ; say from two hundred to three
hundred dollars per head for full blood, and from fifty to one
hundred dollars for half blood. The half blood sheep are,
however, increasing very fast, and may soon be bought at
lower prices ; and they are very much better than any now kept
in the county.

The committee would not wish to occupy too large a space
in their report, but they feel it to be a duty to make a few re-
marks founded upon their own observation, respecting the
profit of raising and keeping sheep in Norfolk county.

A farmer in Walpole, having a small farm, formerly kept
forty sheep, four cows and one horse, and had food enough for
them the year round. The price of w^ool falling, he sold his
sheep, and for a number of years has kept other stock alto-
gether. He now keeps but three cows and one horse the year
round, and pastures two cows extra through the summer — say
from the first of June to the first of November — sells very lit-
tle hay, not half enough to keep another cow ; he has the same
amount of pasture and mowing as when he kept 'the forty
sheep in addition to his other stock, and yet his farm does not
look near as well as it did then. He used to raise turnips
among his corn, for his sheep to eat in winter, and gave them,
besides, a few bushels of grain. The lambs, however, more
than paid for the extra feed.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 401

A farmer in Wrentbam, for a great number of years, kept
about sixty sheep, eight or nine cows, (or other stock equal,)
one pair of oxen, and one horse. After keeping the sheep for
a number of years, he told the chairman of this committee he
could then keep as large a stock on his farm with the sixty
sheep, as he could keep without them before ; showing that
they had improved the farm to furnish their own support. To
stock a farm entirely with sheep, would not be so profitable as
to keep a limited number ; yet, if a farm were stocked entirely
with sheep, it might pay, perhaps, about as well as other stock.
We suppose it would be fair to calculate that eight sheep
would consume as much food as one large cow, and that the
net annual proceeds of small flocks kept in Norfolk county,
would not vary much from three dollars per head ; this would
be about as large a profit as other stock would yield, taking
into account the extra cost of labor that it requires, such as the
dairy, etc. In a neighborhood where there is a regular market
for milk, cows will undoubtedly pay the greatest profit, as all
the reports show.

A farmer in R.hode Island, a year or two since, had thirty
sheep, which cost, at |1 67 per head, ^50 10. He sold the
same, with their lambs and wool, within one year from the
time of his purchase, for $210, or something more than $5 net
profit per head. This, however, we consider much above an
average proiit, but shows that small flocks pay the largest
profit.

The committee cannot but hope that the farmers of Norfolk
county will look carefully at the value of sheep as a profitable
stock, and that not many years will have passed, before the
exhibition of sheep at our annual fair will equal that of any
other stock.

Truman Clark, Oiairman.

Cows.
The committee report that there were a large number of
cows on exhibition, only seven of which were oflered for pre-
mium in the class of milch cows.
51

402 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

These were entered by —

Samuel J. Ca))en, Dorchester, 1 Holstein.

Simeon Burr, Foxborough, 1 Native.

Samuel J. Capen, Dorchester, 1 Durham.

Isaac W. Follansbee, Dorchester, 1 one-half Ayrshire.

Luther C. Bailey, West Roxbury, 1 Durham and Native.

Otis Sawyer, Needham, 1 Durham and Native.

Samuel J. Capen, Dorchester, 1 Ayrshire.

The premiums for milch cows were awarded to the follow-
ing persons : —

Samuel J. Capen, 1st premium, for his cow Jessica, . $10 00

Samuel J. Capen, 2d premium, for his cow Nancy, . 8 00

Simeon Burr, 3d premium, for his cow Native, . 6 00

S. J. Capen, 4th premium, for his cow Mrs. Cushing, 4 00
And the committee recommend a special gratuity to
Luther C. Bailey, for a splendid cow, which, by the

rules of the society, was excluded from competition, 8 00

They also would make favorable mention of the fine cows
of Messrs. Follansbee and Sawyer.

Premiums for cows not in milk : —

Devon, 1st prem. to B. V. French, Braintree, . . $5 00

■ " J. H. Robinson, Dorchester, . 5 00

' " Samuel J. Capen, Dorchester, . 3 00

' » B. V. French, Braintree, . . 5 00

' " Charles Sampson, Roxbury, . 3 00

' " Marshall P. Wilder, Dorchester, 5 00

' « Aaron D. Weld, W. Roxbury, . 3 00

' « Herman C. Fisher, Franklin, . 5 00
A gratuity is also recommended to S. J. Capen, for his
magnificent cow "Jessica," although not strictly of

this class, of . 5 00

There were several other fine cows on exhibition, and the
committee regret that they had not the means of extending
the premiums so as to reach them. They feel assured that at
no county show in the State have been presented superior an-
imals, than, this year, came under their inspection at Dedham.
The cow "Jessica," as will be seen by the statement annexed,
was certified to have averaged 26|- quarts of milk per day for

Ayrshire,

1st

Grade,

1st

((

Native,

1st

Durham,

1st

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 403

ten days, at her flow; and 20 quarts per day, three months
from her calving. A native cow, " Brindle," was certified to
have made 14| pounds of butter per week, for several succes-
sive weeks; — milk equal to more than one-half pound per
week having been used in the family.

It is gratifying to see the commendable spirit awakened in
this interesting and important branch of the farm economy ;
but there is yet room for great improvement. The average
yield of milk throughout the year, in this State, would proba-
bly not exceed four quarts per day, or 1,460 quarts per annum,
from each cow ; while there are instances, in other States, of
herds which have averaged more than double this yield. "He
that runs may read" the lesson that is here presented to us,
and your committee suggest that a premium be offered for the
lot of cows, not less than six in number, which shall yield the
greatest amount of milk, not less than eight quarts per day, for
a year ; the statement of the applicants to contain an account
of the quantity and kind of feed allowed each animal — the
mode of feeding — whether pastured or stabled in summer, and
other particulars of importance — and to be verified by one or
more of the attendants upon the animals.

To obtain a great yield of milk, many things are necessary
besides obtaining great milking cows ; for animals of middling
quality, with good and judicious treatment, will excel in their
annual produce really better cows, which may not be so well
cared for.

To insure a healthy and a full yield of milk, it is of the first
importance that a cow be well fed with a sufficiency of proper
food, and be kept clean by continued currying and cardings ;
on the same principle that race horses are enabled to do their
best by faithful grooming, as well as feeding. They should be
gently treated ; for a little observation will teach any one that
worrying, whether it proceeds from a bad temper or bad treat-
ment, lessens a cow's yield. They should also be fed, watered,
driven to pasture, or stabled, and milked, with regularity. At
a given hour, a cow expecting her daily allowance of food or
water, or to go to the pasture, or to be driven home to be
milked, grows uneasy, and either by fretting decreases the
amount of her daily yield, or by being forced to hold up her

404 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

milk for a greater or less time, acquires the habit of withhold-
ing or of dropping it.

It has been ascertained by experiment, that a cow in milk
or in calf, will consume 3 per cent, of her live weight in hay,
per day, or an equivalent to it ; thus a cow of 1,000 pounds,
will consume 30 pounds of hay, equal to 6 bushels of cut hay.
But it is, on various accounts, desirable that she should have a
change of food, and not live on hay alone. A diversity of diet
is as necessary for the animal, as it is for man. For this pur-
pose, it is the custom of some to feed one-half hay, and to
supply the balance with roots, shorts, corn or oil meal. Prac-
tical men are not satisfied, we believe, that it is profitable to
steam or cook the food, except where the number of animals
is so large as to make the extra expense of this small, joer head.
The committee are, however, of opinion, that the prevalent
custom of feeding out to cows, roots, in an almost frozen state,
or shorts and meal with cold water, and nearly congealed, or
to give them ice water to drink, cannot but be prejudicial to
the animal, particularly to the yield of milk. Cold substances,
in large quantities, rob the stomach of much of its warmth,
and greatly derange its operations. With little trouble, roots
may be kept where they will not freeze, and every good farmer
will possess these accommodations, and also the means of
warming the water which may be mixed with meal, and of
tempering that which is used for drink.

These may be esteemed as of small consequence ; but when
it is remembered that a farmer's gains are made up of "small
affairs," they will assume a due importance.

To give to this subject the consideration it deserves, would
transcend the limits of this report. The committee, therefore,
in conclusion, commend to the attention of the farmers of Nor-
folk county, the excellent agricultural papers that treat more
fully of these matters, and in particular, the Report on Milch
Cows, by Hon. Allen W. Dodge, Secretary of the Essex So-
ciety, to the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.

For the committee,

Marshall P. Wilder, C/iairman.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 405

Samuel J. Capen's Statement. No. 1.

The Holstein cow "Jessica," is seven years old. She calved
on the 31st of August, 1851. Her calf was taken from her
when two days old. From O to Oct. 10th, she averaged

26^ qts. of milk per day, weighing 64 lbs. From Jan. 1st to
Jan. 10th, (three months from the time of her calving,) she av-
eraged 20 qts. of milk per day, weighing 48 lbs.

P. S. From Oct. 1st to Oct. 10th, she was fed on grass, 2
qts. meal and 2 qts. shorts per day. From Jan. 1st to 10th,
she had 2 qts. meal, 4 qts. shorts and ^ h\\&\\. carrots per day.

Dorchester, Sept. 28, 1852.

This cow has given 30 qts. of milk a day. At the show of
the American Institute, New York, she was awarded the first
premium as a milker. She gave 15 qts. of milk at one milk-
ing, on the ground.

"W. S. King.

Samuel J. Capen^s Statement. No. 2.

The Durham short horn cow " Nancy," is eight years old.
She calved Oct. 1, 1851. Calf killed when two days old. She
averaged, from the 20th to the 30th of Oct., 22 qts. per day,
weighing 51 lbs. She was fed on grass, 2 qts. meal and 2 qts.
shorts per day. From Jan. 20 to Jan. 30, she averaged 16 qts.
per day, weighing 37 lbs. She was fed on hay, 2 qts. meal,
4 qts. shorts and i bush, carrots per day.

Dorchester, Sept. 28, 1852.

Simeon Bur/s Statement.

I offer for premium my native red twin cow, four years old.
From the 2d to the 12th of June, she made 171^ lbs. of butter.
From the 10th to the 20th of Sept., she made 15| lbs. of but-
ter. She calved the 18th day of April. I sold the calf when
three weeks and three days old, for $7 25. She has had
nothing but grass and cornstalks.

FOXBOROUGH.

406 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Samuel J. Capen^s Statement. No. 3.

The cow " Mrs. Gushing," is fall blood Ayrshire, from the
imported stock of Mr. Gushing, of Watertown. She is five
years old. She calved when two years old ; has had three
calves, and has not been dry since her having her first calf.
She calved Nov. 3d, 1851. From Dec. 1st to 10th, she aver-
aged 15 qts. of milk per day; was fed on hay, 1 qt. meal, 4
qts. shorts and 1 bush, carrots. From March 1st to 10th, she
averaged 12 qts. per day, weighing 28 lbs. Fed the same as
above.

Dorchester, Sept. 28, 1852.

Luther C. Bailey's Statement.

This cow was bought of Josiah Fogg, of Deerfield. She
is now owned by William H. Sumner, of West Roxbury, who
purchased her last November. She is half native and half
Durham, and is nine years old. She calved the 11th of August,
1852. In seven days, from the 21st to the 27th of Aug., she
gave 154|^ qts. of milk, which weighed 404| lbs. Her feed
was ,2 qts. of shorts and 1 qt. of meal a day. As the grass in
our pasture all dried up, the weighing of the milk was discon-
tinued ; but after the rains, the feed grew better, when I made
a second trial, from the 18th of Sept. to the 27th, ten days, she
gave 231|^ qts. of milk, which weighed 601|^ lbs. Grain, 4 qts.
a day ; 2 of meal and 2 of shorts.

Neither of these experiments fairly tested the productiveness
of the cow, which would have been considerably increased if
we had had good grass. As it was, she was pastured on old
mowing fields, upon which the grass was short, but started
after the rains. This remark is proved by the report of the
committee of the Franklin Society, where she was kept in the
rich Deerfield meadows, and produced in seven days 465 lbs.
of milk, from which 17 lbs. of butter were made. We could
not make butter for trial this year, as the milk was daily used.
She made great quantities of butter all winter and spring,
which was used in the family ; she also supplied them with
all the cream they used. She gave milk until the time was
out for her to calve, which was nearly four weeks after.

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

407

Bulls.
The committee on bulls report the following award of pre-

miums :
Devons.

Durhams.*

Ayrshires.

Grades.

Natives.

Bull calves.

1. B. V. French, of Braintree,

2. Franklin King, of Dorchester, .

1. Samuel J. Capen, of "

2. Edward King, " "
Certificate to S. J. Capen, of Dorchester
1. Curtis Stone, of Wrentham,

1. Ezekiel Peabody, of Needham, .

2. J. S. Beal, of Quincy,

1. C. S. Hammond, of Medfield, .

2. B. N. Sawin, of Dover,
1. J. H. Robinson, of Dorchester, .
Gratuity to Aaron D. Weld, of West

Roxbury, ......

• $5

2 00

The chairman of the committee on bulls, not being able to
meet with his fellow members of that committee, to submit to
their inspection the portion of the report that follows, and
being ignorant, therefore, how far it would meet their approba-
tion, begs leave to present the views that follow as simply his
own opinions, founded on many years of experience in the
breeding and management of neat cattle.

If the use of a bull be merely to keep up a succession of
fresh milk cows in a stable, it matters little whether the animal
be good, bad or indifferent, so long as he is sure. But if the
object be to rear the calves, and thus to obtain superior milch
cows and working oxen, it is of the utmost importance that
the selection of the bull be a wise one. Holding these views,
the undersigned submits to the farmers of the county, whether
the use of grade and native bulls is not, at the least, inju-
dicious.

The Devon, the Durham, the Ayrshire and the Jersey bulls,
are valuable, not because they come of importations from
across sea, nor because they cost and command a large price ;

* The committee have called the bull of Mr. Capen, which is, in fact, three-fourths
Durham and one-fourth Holstein, a Durham ; from the fact that the Holsteins are
by many set down, as the origin of the Durhams.

408 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

but because they are the result of careful, continued and judi-
cious breeding, under tlie direction of men who have devoted
to the business their entire attention for a long series of years,
and because the animals thus carefully bred beget their like,
and transmit their qualities, with scarcely an exception, to their
get. Instance the Devons, as one of the oldest breeds, how true
are all to their color and other characteristics; insomuch that a
child can always recognize the breed at a glance. The in-
stances are rare, w^here a heifer calf out of a good milking cow,
of a pure blood, by a thorough bred bull coming of a good
milking tribe, fails to be herself a good milker. Whereas, so
common are the failures when native cows and bulls are em-
ployed, that it has passed into a proverb, " a good cow may
have a poor calf."

It is therefore of the utmost importance that our bulls should
be selected with a view to our wants, and that they should be
of the pm'e blood of whatever breed we select, in order to
transmit the qvialities which we desire, to their offspring. If it
be true — and in this county the fact will be very generally
allowed — that the above-mentioned breeds are improved breeds,
and therefore desirable, it follows, that the use of grade bulls
is pernicious ; because by them we constantly breed out the
very blood that we desire to breed in. Take the instance of a
bull one-half Durham and one-half native, crossed upon a
native cow ; the produce is three-quarters native, and but one-
quarter Durham. And thus, in each generation, you diminish
the proportion of Durham blood. By the same reasoning,
bulls of pure blood will constantly improve our native stock.

The native bulls are a little of everything mixed up ; and
they beget their like in one respect, their calves being a little
of everything a little more mixed up. Those then, who, as
above, allow the English breeds to be an improvement, must,
to be consistent, pronounce the use of native bulls an. injury.

We are perfectly aware that it is unpopular doctrine, and
that we run counter to the prejudices of many excellen-t farm-
ers and estimable men ; but as our opinions have been care-
fully considered, and we believe them to be well founded, it
would be cowardice to withhold them.

A breed in all respects equal to the best British breed, and
in some respects superior, could be made from our native

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 409

cows, by always selecting the choicest animals to be put to
thorough bred bulls of a chosen blood. Care should be taken,
however, not to mix many bloods. If, for instance, a Jersey
bull be selected to improve the quality of our native stock,
do not expose your heifer calves of his to get to any other
than a bull of the same blood ; thus one may, in time, build
up a breed yielding a large quantity of milk of the very
choicest quality.

Some of the contributors to the show of this year, attached
importance to the fact, that their yearling bulls had served, in
the one case, ninety and odd, and in the other, seventy and
odd cows within the year. It is not good policy, in our opin-
ion, to use a bull at all, before he is a twelvemonth old ; but
if from necessity used at any time before that period, and for
a twelvemonth afterward, it is well to use him spariiigly.
The abuse of his powers at an early age, tells on the animal,
sooner or later, and on his get.

In using bulls, farmers should know that a single leap, if
thorough, is as effectual and is better than two or three. One
of the best points of a bull, (assurances of which should be
required of exhibitors,) is, that he is a sure stock getter. Every
one, who has a stable of cows, knows the annoyance caused
by sending a cow two or three times to no purpose ; and to
the milk farmer, this grows beyond a mere inconvenience, and
becomes a severe pecuniary loss, forcing him sometimes to
purchase a new cow to fill the place of one that, by the bull's
inefficiency, failed to " come in" in season.

All which is respectfully submitted,

William S. King, Chairman.

Heifers.

The committee on heifers have the pleasure of reporting
that the number of competitors for the premiums is twenty-
seven, who have offered thirty-nine for examination ; and we
take great pleasure in saying that many of them are of superior
merit. We have, after a careful examination, awarded the
premiums as follows :
62

410 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Jersey. — To Lyman Kinsley, of Canton, first premium, |3 00
There being none others of that breed offered, the
second premium is not awarded.
Ayrshire. — Samuel J. Capen, of Dorchester, for his 2

years 6 months old, first premium, . . . 3 00

Samuel J. Capen, of Dorchester, for his 13 months

old, second premium, . . . . . . 2 00

These being all that were offered.
Durham. — None of full blood offered, and no premiums

awarded.
Devon. — B. V. French, of Braintree, for his two-year

old, first premium,

John Fussell, of Roxbury, second premium.
Grade. — Aaron D. AVeld, of West Roxbury, first pre-
mium, ........

Ebenezer Richards, of Dedham, second premium,
Native. — Joseph Onion, of Dedham, first premium,
Charles B. Shaw, of Dedham, second premium.
Heifers in Milk. — Marshall P. Wilder, of Dorchester,

first premium,

Aaron D. Weld, of West Roxbury, second premium,
Charles H. Bacon, of Dorchester, third premium.
Best Heifer wider one year old. — John Tucker, Milton,

Your committee, in consideration of a number of premiurns
not awarded, for reasons already presented, would respectfully
recommend that a gratuity be awarded to the following gen-
tlemen having animals of superior merit : —

To Lyman Kinsley, of Canton, one-half Durham, one-
half Native, 2 years 5 months old,. . . . ^2 00

To Edward King, of Dorchester, one-half Cream Pot,

one-half Durham, IG months old, . . , . 2 00

To Solomon Flagg, of West Needham, two grade

heifers, 2 00

To Charles Sampson, of West Roxbury, Charles C.
Sewall, of Medfield, and Charles S. Hammant, of
Medfield, each, 1 00

Calvin Richards, Chairman.

. 3

. 2

. 3

. 2 00

>
. 6

. 4

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 411

Steers.

The committee on steers report that but three pairs of steers
were exhibited. The premiums were as follows : —

To B. V. French, of Braintree, for the best pair of three

years old, first premium, . . . . . f 5 00

To J. Willard Daniels, East Medway, second premium, 4 00
To Lyman Adams, Jr., Medway, for pair of two years

old, second premium, . . . . . . 4 00

Nathaniel Tucker, Chairman.

Horses.

The committee appointed to award premiums on horses,
having attended to their duty, beg leave to report.

The whole number of entries was twenty-eight, viz. : —

Two stallions, two single horses, two farm horses, one 4
years old colt, three 3 years old do., three 2 years old do.,
one 1 year old do., thirteen mares, with foal by side, and one
pony.

Your committee award the following premiums : —

To Simeon Burr, of Foxborough, for the best single

horse, a premium of . . . . , . $2 00

To Otis Johnson, of Sharon, for the best three years

old colt raised in the county, a premium of . . 4 00

To J. H. Billings, of Roxbury, for the best two years

old colt raised in the county, a premium of . . 3 00

The committee also recommend to Otis Gary, of Fox-
borough, for a fine mare colt, a gratuity of . . 2 00

To Dr. S. S. "Whitney, of Dedham, for the best one-year

old colt raised in the county, a premium of . . 2 00

For the best breeding mare, with foal by side, to Otis

Gary, of Foxborough, first premium, . . . 7 00

To E. P. Carpenter, of Foxborough, second premium, 6 00

The four years old colt entered, does not come within the
rules of the society, not having been raised in the county.

412 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Your committee do not think either of the farm horses en-
tered entitled to a premium.

Only one of the two stallions entered came within the rules
of the society, and that one your committee do not think en-
titled to a premium ; but being the only one entered which
will stand in the county the ensuing season, they recommend
a gratuity to the owner, E. B. Metcalf, of Franklin, of $5.
The other stallion, " Tricolor," is recommended by as pure a
pedigree as any horse in the county, and exhibits many fine
points; but, as his owner is about to remove him to another
part of the State, your committee did not consider themselves
authorized to award him a premium.

All which is respectfully submitted,

Wm. H. E-ichardson, CJiairman.

Working Oxen.

There were eight pairs of oxen entered for premium, and
Mr. A. D. Weld, of West Roxbury, entered one pair for exhi-
bition only. Mr. Weld had two pairs of oxen which reflected
credit to the owner, and were creditable to the show. Mr.
Weld's teamster, Mr. Andrew T. Meserve, is entitled to great
credit for the mild treatment of his team. Mr. S. J. Capen, of
Dorchester, had a very fine yoke of four years old cattle, well
trained; their necks were sore, which caused them to flinch a
little when they first started. Mr. J. W. Daniels, of Medway,
had a very good pair of oxen, remarkably well trained; in
short, the teams were all good, and creditable to the owners
and to the society. Yet some of the teamsters made so free
use of the lash, that it was almost dangerous for the commit-
tee to get within a reasonable distance.

The committee, as did the committee of last year, would
most cheerfully encourage and recommend the encouragement
of well trained working oxen, and discourage too free a use of
the lash. We hear great complaint among the farmers, that
they cannot get good teamsters. We think one reason is, that
they allow the whip to be used too much ; too much praise
cannot be given to the teamster that is merciful to his team.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 413

There was but one town team presented for premium, and
that was from the town of Dover. There were thirty-two
pairs of oxen in the team, all of which were in good worlving
order, and the committee consider it very creditable that so
small a town as Dover, with only six hundred inhabitants,
should turn out so large a team, and still leave some ten pairs
of oxen at home. The committee were very much gratified
with the attention given to them by the Dover teamsters, and
'take this opportunity to tender their thanks for their ride from
the plough field to the spading match. Although their seats
were not all cushioned, a'nd some of the springs were left from
under the wagon, they enjoyed it very much.

The committee cheerfully recommend to the town of

Dover, the first premium on town teams, . $20 00
To S. J. Capen, of Dorchester, working oxen, 1st prem., 8 00
To A. D. Weld, of West Roxbury, " 2d " 6 00

To J. W. Daniels, of Medvvay, " 3d « 5 00

To J. P. Clarke, of Medway, " 4th « 3 00

Swine.

The number of swine entered this season for exhibition or
premium was unusually large. The animals were mostly of
the Suffolk breed, and many of them were specimens of supe-
rior beauty and rare excellence. This breed seems to be uni-
versally admired, and favorites of all. It is gentle and quiet
in disposition, always fat, and not difficult in regard to diet.
An increased interest is evidently abroad in this department,
and the hog is taking that high stand among other animals,
which its own intrinsic merits so justly deserve. New Eng-
land should raise her own pork. Both economy and the palate
require it. Hence the breeds food^ and mode of keeping, should
be objects of particular note, by every economist and lover of
good pork.

Mr. Ezekiel Peabody, of the town farm of Needham, ex-
hibited six pigs, half Suffolk, six months and ten days old, of
superior beauty and merit. Their general uniformity of size
was remarkable, as well as their own individual good qualities.

414 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Mr. P. also exhibited their mother, a fine native sow, one year
and six months old, worthy of note. Dr. Ayling, of Grantville,
entered a noble breeding s-ow, — a cross of the Suffolk and Mid-
dlesex,— five years old, with a litter of six pigs five weeks old.
His sow was an animal of superior excellence and worth, both
as it regards her size and good proportions, and also as an ex-
tremely successful breeder ; and had the committee a written
statement of facts in season, she would have taken one of the
highest premiums. Dr. A. also exhibited a pure Suffolk sow,'
one year old.

The Hon. M. P. Wilder, of Dorchester, exhibited a fat Suf-
folk hog, of no ordinary size and beauty, and also three Suffolk
pigs, of good size and points, every way worthy of special
notice.

The Hon. B. V. French, of Braintree, favored us with a pure
Suffolk sow, with a litter of eleven pigs, five weeks and five
days old. This was indeed a fine family, and well worthy the
attention of every passer by. The pure Suffolk traits and pe-
culiarities seemed more prominent in this family than any
other on the ground. As a whole, they were rare specimens
of the Suffolk breed.

A very large Suffolk boar, two years and four months old,
owned by Calvin Deane, of Canton, took a conspicuous place
at the exhibition.

Mr. Lyman Kinsley, of Canton, had a superior fat hog,
three-quarters Suffolk, thirteen months old, weighing 556 lbs.
This was a rare fellow, and no fat hog on the ground sur-
passed him.

Mr. H. L. Stone, of Grantville, also exhibited a fat hog,
thirteen months old, three-quarters Suffolk, of superior merit,
his age and keeping being taken into due consideration. Mr.
S. also offered, for premium, a breeding sow, three-quarters
Suffolk, and a litter of her pigs, five in number, seven-eighths
Suffolk. They were all fine animals, especially the latter.
His Suffolk boar was a good looking animal, and of good
parts, but not so active and sprightly as a gentleman of his
station should be.

Mr. Alvin Alden, of Dedham, exhibited two Suffolk pigs,
eight and nine months old. They wore large and well pro-
portioned, having the Suffolk qualities very well delineated.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 415

Rev. C. C. Sewall, of Medfield, had two extra hogs, three-
quarters Suffolk, thirteen and sixteen months old, weighing
414 and 460 lbs. They looked thrifty and fat, though Mr. S.
said he had not yet commenced fattening them.

Mr. Luther Gilbert of Grantville, entered a Suffolk boar,
sixteen months old, which the committee thought worthy of
high commendation. He was of good size, well proportioned
and active, and exbibitcd every trait of a useful animal. Mr.
G. had also a fine imported Middlesex sow, three years old,
worthy of special attention, being the only one of that excel-
lent breed on the ground. He also exhibited a pure Suffolk
breeding sow, with five pigs of no ordinary character.

Mr. S. S. Seagrave, of West Needham, offered a broad-
shouldered, straight-limbed, and extremely well-proportioned
three-quarters Suffolk boar, fifteen months old, which attracted
universal notice and admiration. Among his other extra
qualities, he seemed active, hardy and robust. Mr. S. had
also on the ground, a healthy, active, breeding sow, and a
litter of seven of her pigs, three-quarters Suffolk. This seemed
to be a happy cross for a common, every day hog, for almost
every body.

Mr. H. H. Williams, of West Roxbury, offered a Suffolk
boar, fourteen months old, inferior to none on the ground, of
his age. The committee awarded him the second premium,
on the ground that he was younger than Mr. Gilbert's ; and
though the next day they learned that Mr. W. had not himself
owned this pig long enough to strictly claim a premium, still
they did not see fit to alter their former decision. Mr. H. had
also two good Suffolk pigs four months old, claiming a good
share of attention.

Mr. Hiram Jones, of Dover, entered a large, well propor-
tioned breeding sow, seven-eighths Suffolk, which took a high
rank among the many. He also entered nine weaned pigs,
five months and nineteen days old, three-quarters Suffolk, and
one-quarter Mackay. This litter of pigs, taken as a whole,
was, in the opinion of the committee, worthy the first pre-
mium.

Mr. W. R. Huston, of Dedham, had two pigs, three-quarters
Suffolk, eleven weeks and three days old, weighing 81 and 83

416 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

lbs. These looked healthy and hardy, and were ornaments to
the pig tribe.

Mr. John FusselJ, of Jamaica Plain, honored us with a ro-
bust pair of the Suflolk breed two years old. Their age and
hardy appearance gave them an acceptable rank among their
competitors.

J. and J. E. Eaton, of Dedham, exhibited a Suffolk boar,
sixteen months old. This pig is looking up towards a high
station among the favorites.

A Suffolk boar and sow, owned by Mr. John Deane, 3d, of
Dedham, deserve a good place in the present hog-scale of
excellence. At last came those superior Suffolk pigs, a barrow
and sow six months old, owned by Mrs. George Hallet, of Rox-
bury. These were indeed specimens of excellence every way
well proportioned, — round and plump, — speaking well for the
crib of their mistress.

Premiums aioarded.

Boars. — To Luther Gilbert, of Grantville, .
To H. H. Williams, of Roxbury, .
" S. S. Seagrave, of West Needham, .
Breeding Sows. — To Luther Gilbert, of Grantville,
To B. V. French, of Braintree,
" H. W. Jones, of Dover, ....
" S. S. Seagrave, of West Needham, a gratuity,
" Dr. Ayling, of Grantville, a diploma.
Weaned Pigs. — To H. W. Jones, of Dover,
To E. Peabody, town farm, Needham, .
" H. L. Stone, of Grantville,
" A. D. Weld, of West Roxbury, a gratuity,
Fat Hogs. — To Lyman Kinsley, of Canton,
To Rev. C. C. Sewall, of Medfield,

For the committee,

Na.than Longfellow, Chairman,
Needham, Oct. 20, 1852.

. $6 00

5 00

4 00

6 00

5 00

4 00

2 00

5 00

3 00

2 00

6 00

5 00

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

417

Poultry.

2 00

The committee on poultry award the following premiums :

Best pair Spanish, C. B. Ward, Dedham,

" " Black Shanghaes, A. White, Randolph,

" " White " J. S. Drayton, Dedham,

" « Marsh " A. White, Randolph,

" " Chittagong, Charles Sampson, W. Roxbury

" " Bolton Grays, E. Stone, Dedham, .

" " Guineas, Henry Tucker Milton,

" " Sebright Bantams, H. H. Williams, West

Roxbury, . . .
" " Barnyard fowls, (Dominique) Levi Smith
Sharon, ......

" " Ducks, David Thayer, Braintree, .

" " Poland fowls, Charles Small,

" lot Geese, C. R. Belcher, Randolph, .

1st best lot Turkeys, John Dean, Dedham, .

2d " " Lemuel Kingsbury, Needham,

1st « Fowls, A. White, East Randolph, .

2d " " C. Sampson, W. Roxbury, .

3d " " H. H. Williams, W. Roxbury,

Gratuity to Geo. Dorr, Dorchester, for Bolton Grays,
" " Charles L. Copeland, for Bremen geese,

A diploma to Charles Sampson, for his fine Black
Shanghaes.

Eben Wight, Chairman
Dedham, Sept. 29, 1852,

00
00

3 00

00
00

4 00
3 00
2 00
2 00
2 00

Bread.

The committee on bread, having attended to the duty as-
signed them, beg leave to submit the following report :

Forty-one specimens of bread were ofiered for premiums, of
which twenty-three were of wheat, ten of rye and Indian, four
of wheat and Indian, and four of unbolted wheat.
53

418 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Wheat bread. — Your committee award to Mrs. Smith
Gray, of Walpole, for wheat bread, the first premi-
um of P 00

To Mrs. Winifred Kelley, of West Roxbury, the

second premium of . . . . . . 2 00

Unbolted ivheat bread. — For bread made of unbolted
wheat, we award to Mrs. E. W. Longfellow, of
Needhara, the first premium of . . . . 3 00

To Mrs. Winifred Kelley, of West Roxbury, the sec-
ond premium of . . . . . . . 2 00

Wheat and Indian bread. — For bread made of wheat and
Indian, we award to Mrs. S. J. Capen, of Dorches-
ter, the first premium of 3 00

To Mi's. L. B. Keyes, of Dedham, the second pre-
mium of . . . . . . . . 2 00

Rye and Indian bread. — For bread made of rye and
Indian, we award to Mrs. Sarah S. Kollock, of
Canton, the first premium of . . . . . 3 00

To Mrs. William Bacon, of South Walpole, the

second premium of . . . . . . 2 00

Several excellent specimens of bread were not considered
entitled to premiums, because not accompanied by a receipt,
as required by the printed regulations. The committee, how-
ever, unanimously recommend that a gratuity of $2 be given
to Mrs. S. W. Barber, of Brookline, for perhaps the best loaf
of wheat bread offered ; but which was not admitted to
competition for the premiums, because unaccompanied by a
receipt.

All which is respectfully submitted,

Edmund Quincy, for the committee.
Dedham, Sept. 28, 1852.

Butter.

The committee on butter report that three lots were exhibit-
ed, of 40 lbs. each, for the premium of twenty dollars, the same
to be given for use at the society's dinner. The committee

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 419

award to Rev. C. C. Sewall, of Medfield, the prem. of $20 00

For the lot of 40 lbs. offered by Mr. G. F. Adams, of

Medfield, the committee recommend a gratuity of 10 00

For the best product of butter made from the 20th of
May to the 20th of Sept., four months, not less
than 20 lbs., to Mr. Aaron Bacon, of Dover, the
first prem. of . . . . . . . 10 00

To Mr. John Mansfield, of Needham, the second prem.

of 8 00

For the best box of butter, of not less than 12 lbs., to

Mr. Jas. R. Fisher, of Dedham, the first prem. of . 6 00

To ]Mr. G. Crosby, of Medway, the second prem. of . 4 00

To Mr. G. F. Adams, of Medfield, the third prem. of . 2 00

For the committee,

John Gardner, Chairman.
Dedham, Sept., 1852.

Roots and Root Culture.

The committee on roots and root culture, submit the follow-
ing report : —

That but one claim was entered for a premium. This was
by Perez Ij. Fearing, of Dover. It was for a field of carrots.
Mr. Fearing's statement, which will be appended to this re-
port, gives an account of his mode of cultivation, of the ex-
pense and net profits of the crop. The committee award to
Mr. Fearing the society's premium of $5.

The committee add, that the example of Mr Fearing is wor-
thy of imitation ; and that the profits in his case hold out strong
inducements to others to attend to the cultivation of root crops.

Ralph Sanger, Chairman.
Dover, Dec, 1852.

Perez L. Fearing's Statement.

The ground on which I raised my carrots, which I offer for
premium, measures one-half acre, one and six-tenths rods. It

420

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

was in carrots last year by E. Perry, Esq. I spread two and
one-half cords of manure, and ploughed the ground twice, and
harrowed it once in the spring. About the middle of INIay, I
sowed it in ridges about twenty-eight inches apart, and sowed
it by hand, one row to the ridge ; this work was done by one
man and boy in one day. The first weeding was done as soon
as the carrots were up, by a boy, in one day and a half ; I then
hoed it over with a hoe within an inch of the carrots. This
was done by a man in one day. I then run the cultivator
through the rows once. The second weeding was done by a
boy in about one day. I then thinned the carrots, from four
to six inches apart, and hoed them same as the first time, and
run the plough and cultivator through once each, which was
done in about two days by one man. I commenced harvest-
ing about the 1st of November ; it took two men two days
each, and one boy two and a half days ; horse, one and a half
day. I had 12,869 lbs.— six tons, 869 lbs.

The expense

of 2J- cords of manure, .

$12 50

a ((

hauling manure.

1 GO

(( u

ploughing, harrowing, &c..

2 00

u a

seed, ....

a a

sowing seed,

1 50

U il

first weeding.

a u

second " . .

(( a

cultivating, ploughing and hoeing.

3 50

a ((

harvesting, ....

6 75

$29 00

I have sold

part of them at $12 per ton ; at that

price they would amount to . . .

$77 21

Expenses,

29 00

Net profit, $48 21

I herewith send you a certificate of the weight. I haxe not
measured the land, as it was measured last year.

Dover, Nov. 9, 1852.

This certifies, that I have weighed three baskets full of car-
rots raised by P. L. Fearing, and they average 95 lbs. to the

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 421

basket ; and have counted the number of baskets as marked
down, and find the amount 143.

Lewis Sumner.
Dover, Nov. 9, 1852.

Fruits and Flowers.

The committee on fruits and flowers, respectfully report that
they have attended to the duty committed to them, and award-
ed the following premiums : —

Apples. — For the best collection, to B. V. French, of

Braintree, first premium of . . .. . . $5 00

To A. D. Williams, W. Roxbury, second prem. of . 3 00

To Moses Kingsbury, W. Dedham, third prem. of . 2 00
For the best dish of apples, to Lewis Davenport, of

Milton, a prem. of 2 00

Pears. — To Marshall P. Wilder, of Dorchester, first

prem. of 5 00

To S. Downer, Jr., of Dorchester, second prem. of . 3 00
To A. D. Weld, W. Roxbury, third prem. of . . 2 00
For the best dish of pears, to Samuel Walker, of Rox-
bury, a prem. of 2 00

Peaches. — First premium not awarded.

To Lewis Davenport, of Milton, second prem. of . 3 00

To Lewis Willard, of Walpole, third prem. of . . 2 00
Grapes. — For the best collection of foreign grapes, to

Charles Sampson, of W. Roxbury, first prem. of . 5 00

To Lyman Kinsley, of Canton, second prem. of . . 3 00

To Mrs. G. Hallett, of Roxbury, a gratuity of . . 1 00

To A. Bowditch, of Roxbury, for a basket of mixed

fruits, a gratuity of 2 00

The committee regret that there should have been no collec-
tion of native grapes presented for the prize. There were
several single specimens of the native grape, but nothing that
could be called a collection. It is to be hoped that the atten-
tion of cultivators will be called more to this subject. Though
Norfolk county will hardly become a wine growing region, it

422 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

is yet true that there are excellent grapes amongst our native
kinds, and that their cultiu-e may be made both profitable and
useful. The committee recommend a gratuity of $1 to Mr.
E. G. Tucker, of Milton, for his excellent specimen of native
grapes, with the accompanying letter, giving an account of its
early maturity and prolific bearing.

The committee further recommend a gratuity of $1 to be
given to Mr. William McKendry, of Canton, for his very fine
specimens of Porter and Baldwin apples.

The committee wish to notice the remarkable statement of
Mr Charles Pierce, of Milton, of the product of two Dix pear
trees, viz. : —

1849. — Both trees blossomed three times, and fruited. 1850.
— Both trees blossomed three times, and one fruited. 1851. —
One blossomed six times, the other four, and fruited three times
each. 1852. — One blossomed seven times, the other three
times. The one that blossomed seven times, fruited each time.
The first crop perished, the remaining six accompany this state-
ment.

The committee cannot conclude without offering the thanks
of the society to the numerous public spirited contributors, who
aided in making this show of fruit one of the finest that has
been seen in the country. There were very many who deserv-
ed both thanks and reward, had the resources of the committee
been as large as their will. They hope that while the laureled
competitors of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society con-
tinue to grace our board with their treasures, their brethren of
more humble pretensions will yet not be discouraged from
adorning it with their beautiful fruit, even though they fail of
especial honors.

Floivers. — The committee regret that the arrangements for
exhibiting the flowers were unavoidably sutsh that they could
not do them justice, nor the flowers do justice to themselves.
They earnestly hope that something may be done before
another exhibition, in the way of providing vases and glasses
suitable for this purpose.

They likewise suggest the expediency of appointing a sepa-
rate committee on flowers, as the duty of looking at and judg-
ing the fruit is very arduous, and leaves little time or strength
for attending to the flowers.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 423

They have awarded the following premiums : —
For the best collection of flowers —

1. Parker Barnes, of Dorchester, . . . ^3 00

2. J. Nugent, of Roxbury, 2 00

3. B. V. French, of Braintree, . . . . 2 00

4. E. M. Richards, of Dedham, . . . 1 00

5. Mrs. Ellis Bacon, South Walpole, bouquet, . 1 00

6. Mrs. J. H. Blackman, of Sharon, « . 1 00

7. Mrs. W. R. Sumner, of Dedham, for very fine

asters, a gratuity of ..... 1 00

F. Cunningham, Chairman.

Grain Crops.

There were entered for premium, two crops of wheat, by
gentlemen whose cultivation of this valuable grain has been
noticed in former reports of the society. Capt. Horatio Mason,
of East Medway, raised, on very little more than one acre of
ground, 33 bushels of wheat, at a cost of about 68 cents per
bushel, and a net profit of about 80 per cent. Mr Sewall, of
Medfield, raised on about nine-tenths of an acre, 19 bushels ;
at a cost, we are informed, of about 60 cents per bushel, and
yielding a profit of about 70 per cent. In both these instances,
the net profit given might fairly be increased 33 per cent, by a
reduction of the expense of harvesting the crop, which we con-
sider to be fully balanced by the value of the straw. Both are
examples of good husbandry attended by remunerating suc-
cess. We have awarded to Capt. Mason the first premium of
|6, and to Mr. Sewall, the second premium of $4.

Another and larger crop was raised by Mr. S. Frothingham,
Jr., of Milton, which was not entered, however, for premium.
An account of this crop is appended to the remarks which
follow this report, on the culture of wheat in this county. In
accordance with the general purport of these remarks, we be-
lieve that much of the soil in this county is as well adapted
to the cultivation of this, as of any other cereal crop. The
statements annexed to this, and to previous reports of the

424 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

society, fully warrant this belief. The hidden causes, which
formerly rendered almost universally futile any attempts to
raise wheat here, seem to have been removed ; or have ceased
to act so injuriously. The same soil which had once been
regarded as wholly unsuited to this crop, is now seen to yield
large and profitable returns of wheat, with as much certainty
as of any other grain. We hope that the subject will receive
full consideration by our intelligent farmers, and that crops of
wheat will become as common as crops of oats and rye, or
Indian corn, in the county.

One of the most frequent obstacles to the cultivation of
wheat, has been the apprehension of mildew to injure or de-
stroy the crop. " A custom prevails in some parts of England,
of sowing a small quantity of rye with the wheat crop, on all
the lighter description of soils. About two quarts to the acre
is the general proportion. Much advantage evidently arises
from this mixing of grain. The wheat is more plump than it
would have been if sowed alone, and a greater quantity of
wheat is grown upon the acre. On light soils, especially if
they are in high condition, wheat, when grown alone, is apt to
be mildewed ; but it is very rare to find this disease where a
small quantity of rye has been mixed with the wheat. This
preservation can only be accounted for by the shelter which
the rye affords to the wheat. No difficulty occurs in the ripen-
ing of the two grains, as they are both fit to cut at the same
period. In threshing, they are kept as distinct from the clean
wheat as possible, and the meslin is ground for household
bread."

One crop of barley was entered for premium, by Capt. H.
Mason, of East Medway. He has raised upon two and a quar-
ter acres of ground, 78f bushels, at a cost of about 54 cents per
bushel, and a profit of more than 50 per cent. "We consider
barley as an exceedingly valuable crop for fattening beef cattle
and swine, and especially good when land is to be sown down
with grass seed and grain. We have awarded to Capt. Mason
the first premium of $4.

Three crops of Indian corn were entered for premium. We
have awarded to Mr. William Pierce, of Needham the first
premium of ^8 for a crop of 90 bushels shelled corn, per acre,
raised at a cost of about 40 cents per bushel, yielding a net

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 425

profit of 125 per cent. We apprehend there may be some
error or omission in the statement given of the actual cost of
this crop, but not such as to reduce very largely the net profits
of it. To Major Jared Allen, of Dover, we have awarded the
second premium of ^5, for a crop of 88 1 bushels shelled corn
per acre, raised at a cost of about 70 cents per bushel, and a
profit of more than 30 per cent. The third premium of $3,
we have awarded to Mr. Sewall, of Medfield, who has raised
on 179 rods of ground, 62 bushels shelled corn, or about 56^
bushels per acre. This corn was very heavy, and nearly the
whole crop consisted of well-filled, sound ears. A part of it
was unfortunately badly eaten by worms, or it would other-
wise have yielded a much larger return. In addition, however,
to the crop of corn, a large amount of first rate pum.pkins and
of flat turnips was harvested from the same around.

Several statements of fine crops of corn and of other grains,
raised by different gentlemen in the county, were also pre-
sented. We consider them worthy of attention, as affording
examples of good cultivation and large profits ; and, accord-
ingly, have annexed them, together with those given by suc-
cessful competitors for the premiums.

A single crop of white beans was also entered for premium.
This was raised by Mr. H. W. Jones, of Dover, at a cost of
about $1 27 per bushel, and a net profit of nearly 50 per cent.
We have awarded to Mr. Jones the first premium of $6.

For the committee.

Horatio Mason^s Statement.

The field of barley I offer for premium contains two and a
quarter acres of land. Last year it was planted with corn,
which was manured in the hill with six loads from the barn-
yard, and seven loads of green manure spread to the acre.

The 1st of May last, the land was again ploughed, then
harrowed, then ploughed again, and twelve loads of green
manure spread to the acre. The barley was sowed the last
week in May, at the rate of about 2|- bushels to the acre. It
was harvested July 25, and the product, at 48 lbs. the bushel,
was 78| bushels.

The early part of the season was wet and the ground heavy,
54

426

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

consequently it was some time before the grain came up ; but
at the last of June, it looked promising, and had not very dry
weather followed, I think I should have had a much larger
crop.

Barley is considered in this vicinity equal to the same num-
ber of pounds of corn, for fattening purposes, and is raised
with less labor.

The expenses of the crop I have charged as follows :

To ploughing twice, harrowing, &c..
Manure, carting and spreading.
Six bushels seed, at $1 per bushel.

Sowing,

Threshing, cleaning, &c., .
Harvesting, ....

Cr. by 78| bushels barley, at 80 cents, per bushel,

I have charged nothing for the use of the land or taxes, for I
believe the land is improved by the cultivation of the last two
years to more than that amount.

^42

Horatio Mason's Statement.

The field of wheat which you viewed, and which I offer for
premium, contains by measurement one hundred and sixty-
eight rods.

I did not intend to offer the whole field for premium, there
being a row of large apple trees across one end of it, while, at
the other end, the land was made so heavy by carting over it
while it was wet, that the grain was very small.

About fourteen rods of the wheat was cut by itself, but
owing to the appearance of rain when the grain was carted to
the barn, it was all put together, consequently I was obliged
to enter the whole.

The soil is a deep loam, what is called heavy land ; upon
which was spread last year twelve loads of manure, and eight
loads put in the hill and planted with corn.

About the last of May, after ploughing the ground twice, 2^
bushels of wheat were sowed and harrowed in. It was har-

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

427

vested the first week in August, and the product, at 60 lbs. to
the bushel, was 33 bushels.
I have charged as follows :

Manure, .....

Two ploughings,

Sowing, harrowing, and bushing,

Cradling, binding, and carting, .

Threshing by horse power, and cleaning.

Two and a fourth bushels of seed, at $1 50 per bush.,

$7 00

2 75
1 75

3 50

4 13
3 38

$22 51
41 25

Value of 33 bushels of wheat, at $1 25 per bushel,

I consider the land in so much better state now than in 1850,
that I have made no charge for the use of it and the taxes.
The land is valued at about $70 per acre.

East Medway, Nov., 1852.

Charles C. SeiualVs Statement.

The ground upon which was raised the wheat offered by me
for premium, has been measured by Mr. John W. Adams, of
this place, and contains 143 square rods. The amount of the
crop is 19 bushels, or 21^ bushels per acre.

The seed of this crop was a new variety of spring wheat,
called Java Wheat. It was steeped in brine eighteen hours,
then covered with lime, and sown at the rate of two bushels
per acre. The ground had produced corn the last year, and
had been heavily manured at the time of planting. In the
spring of this year it was ploughed with the Michigan plough.
Four ox-loads of compost manure were spread and harrowed
into it. When the wheat had sprung up, about 2 cwt. of bone
dust and 50 lbs. of guano, mixed with 6 bushels of wood ashes,
were spread evenly over the ground.

The wheat grew finely at first, but was checked by the
drought, and probably yielded less than it would have done in
a more favorable soil, or in a better season. The soil is a
gravelly loam. The wheat was perfectly free from smut.

The exact amount of cost of this crop cannot be given, nor
can the exact profit be estimated until the grain is disposed of.

Medfield, Nov. 11, 1852.

428 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

William Davis's Statement.

The piece of land on which my rye was raised the present
season (1852), was originally a low, hassocky meadow, on the
side of a small brook, and which was reclaimed in the follow-
ing manner: I began on one side by digging a trench, from
four to six feet wide, and from two and a half to three feet
deep, to the hard pan, throwing the mud all on one side, then
filling the trench with gravel as high as the original surface of
the meadow, then digging another trench and throwing the
mud on top of the gravel, and so on until we had gone over
the whole piece, thus raising the land from two and a half to
three feet. As the work was done at odd jobs, we were a
year or more before it was finished. In the spring of 1850 the
ground was levelled, manured well, and planted with various
kinds of vegetables, such as potatoes, corn, beans, beets, car-
rots, &c., which all grew remarkably well. In the summer of
1851 the land was summer-tilled, and early in August there
were put on it about eight cords of compost manure, con-
sisting of about one-third horse and cow manure, one-third
meadow mud, and one-third old sumac from the tanner's,
which had been well incorporated together in the barn cellar.
The land was ploughed and sowed with one and a half bush-
els of rye ; it was harvested and threshed out, and the most of
it sold by weight of 112 lbs. to the bag of two bushels, and
there were 48 bushels on one acre and five rods, — at the rate
of 46 1 bushels to the acre. The straw has not yet been
weighed, but will be soon, and an account furnished.

The ground on wdiich the above crop was raised was sur-
veyed by me, and found to be one acre and five rods.

Charles Breck.
Milton, Sept. 28, 1852.

Please add to the statement of Mr. "William Davis's crop of
rye, the following account: The straw has all been weighed,
and found to be 6,950 lbs. from the acre and five rods, which
was sold for 75 cents per hundred, equal to $52 12|. The
rye, 48 bushels, was sold for 95 cents, equal to $45 60. After
the rye was taken off, the ground was ploughed, and without
any additional manure was sown with grass seed and English

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 429

turnips. The crop of turnips has been sold on the ground,
without harvesting, for $40. Realizing, the present season,
from one acre and five rods of land, which a few years ago
was almost worthless, the sum of $137 72^. The labor on
the above crops was nothing more than usual with such crops,
but no separate account of it was kept. The expense of filling
up the meadow cannot be ascertained with certainty, but I
should think it was not far from $300 per acre.

I will also add, that the hay and straw on the piece of Capt.
Taylor, of which you have the statement for this year, have
also been weighed, and found to be 3^ tons.

Charles Breck.
Milton, Nov. 15, 1852.

Charles BrecJvS Statement.

The following account of several grain crops lately raised in
this town, if they do not come within the rules granting pre-
miums for such crops, yet they may be worthy of preservation
among the doings of the society.

The first two crops which I will mention, were those raised
by Capt. Charles Taylor, whose statement is as follows : — " In
the fall of 1850, during the month of August, I had a piece of
ground ploughed which had been to pasture for a number of
years, and was much overrun with bushes and blackberry
vines. One acre and three-quarters, as was afterwards ascer-
tained by measure, was spread with about seven cords of pig-
gery manure, and well harrowed in ; the piece was then sowed
with three bushels of rye, about the 1st of September ; the
ground was then again harrowed, and left to take its chance.
In the summer of 1851 it was harvested, threshed, and 68
bushels sold, and two bushels we had ground, making 70
bushels of good, clean, merchantable rye, besides about two
bushels of screenings whl^'.i were left, and there were three
tons of good straw, as ascertained by weight. The ground
was then again ploughed, and the stubble turned in. The
scattering rye which was left upon the ground came up well,
and when it was about three or four inches high, thinking to
kill it, the piece was sowed with grass seed, and well harrowed.

430 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

The rye, however, continued to grow, as well as the grass, and
did not appear to be injured in the least by the harrowing.
The present summer, 1852, finding that there was a good crop
of grain — rye and wild oats — as well as grass, I had it mowed,
and the rye picked out as well as we could by hand, threshed
and measured, and there were 35 bushels of grain and 1| ton
of straw, as was ascertained by weighing about one-half, and
estimating the rest. The hay from the same piece was esti-
mated by good judges to be two tons.

" Making, the first year, from 1| acre, 70 bushels rye, at the
rate of 40 bushels to the acre, and 3 tons straw ; and the sec-
ond year, from the same, 35 bushels rye, 1|- ton straw and 2
tons hay; equal to 105 bushels grain, and 6^ tons of hay and
straw in two years. And the grass now looks well for a heavy
crop next year."

The land on which the above crops were raised, was sur-
veyed by me. It is adjoining a part of my farm, which I im-
prove as a garden, was seen by me almost daily through the
seasons, and although the statement seems large, I have no
doubt is substantially correct.

Milton, Sept. 1, 1852.

William Piercers Statement.

The acre of corn entered by me for a premium, was im-
proved as a corn field last year. There were six cart loads of
green manure spread, and one shovelful of compost manure in
the hill, 2|- feet apart. Last May, ploughed once, spread
eight cart loads green manure, 25 to 30 bushels to the load,
harrowed well, furrowed one way with plough, three feet apart,
applied one shovelful of manure in the hill, 2^ feet apart in
the row. This manure was a compost of mud, loam, night
soil and green manure, thoroughly composted. The corn was
planted on the 22d and 23d of May, putting four to five ker-
nels in the hill; ploughed twice between rows, hoed twice,
and harvested the 25th of October. One rod was selected
which was considered a fair sample of the acre. This rod
yielded 18 quarts of shelled corn, weighing 59 lbs. to the
bushel. The land was a black sandy loam. Value of land,
$60 per acre.

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

431

Interest on land, .

$3 60

Ploughing, once,
Harrowing and furrowing, .
Applying manure.
One-half manure.

1 50
1 25

4 00
15 00

Ploughing, twice,

1 00

Hoeing, twice, .

3 00

Cutting and securing stalks,

2 00

Harvesting corn,

5 00

The value of the crop was as follows, viz.

90 bushels of shelled corn, . - .

Top stalks, .......

Husks, .......

Needham, Nov. 10, 1852.

|36 35

$90 00
5 00

7 00

$102 00

Jared AllerCs Statement.

The acre of corn which I offer for premium, was in grass in
1851. It is composed of a black loamy soil, and was ploughed
in September, 1851, ten inches deep ; the corn was planted
the 30th of May ; the stalks were cut about the 10th of Sep-
tember. The expense of the crop was as follows, viz. : —

Green manure, spread, three cords, at $5 per cord.
Compost manure in the hill, four cords, at $4, .
Ploughing and harrowing twice, and spreading ma

nure, .....
Furrowing and planting, .
Cultivating and hoeing, once, .
Pulling weeds, ....
Cutting stalks and harvesting, .
Interest on land, at $80 per acre,
Taxes, .....

Total,

The value of the crop is as follows, viz.
Stalks and husks, $20 00

. $15 00

. 16 00

. 10 00

4 00

3 00

1 00

8 00

4 80

. S62 20

432 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

One-half of the manure unspent, . . $15 50

881- bushels of corn, at 92 cents, . . 81 48

$116 98

Leaves net profit of $54 78

One rod was selected on the third day of November, which
was considered a fair sample of the acre. The rod yielded
eighteen quarts of shelled corn, which weighed 31 lbs. ; allow-
ing 56 lbs. to the bushel, it makes 88|- bushels per acre.

Dover, Nov. 10, 1852. '

Charles C. SewaWs Statement.

The ground upon which was raised the crop of Indian corn
offered by me for premium, has been measured by Mr. John
M. Adams, of this place, and contains one acre and nineteen
rods. The quantity of corn produced, is found, by accurate
weight and measure, to be 62|- bushels, or about 55'^ bushels
per acre.

The ground was broken up last spring, with the Michigan
plough. Twenty-eight ox-cart loads of compost manure had
been piled upon it last fall. Twelve ox-cart loads of green
manure were spread and ploughed under the sod. One-half
the compost manure was spread on the furrow, and harrowed
into, and mixed with the soil. The rows were then marked
out with a light horse plough, at the distance of three feet
apart. The other half of the compost was put into the hills,
which were two feet and a half apart, and the corn dropped
upon it. The corn had been steeped in a strong infusion of
copperas and saltpetre for twelve hours. A few rows were
planted on the 12th of May, but a storm commencing, the
remainder of the corn continued in the steep until the 17th of
May, when the planting was finished. The corn was culti-
vated three times and hoed twice. That part of it which had
been planted first, was badly eaten by worms ; the rest was
left uninjured. Pumpkin seed was planted very thickly with
the corn, and at the last hoeing, turnip seed was sown between
the row^s. There were harvested, besides the corn, seven large
ox-loads of finest pumpkins, and 40 bushels of large tur-

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 433

nips. Many small turnips were afterwards plovighed into the
ground.

This corn was topped on the 8th of September, and was fit
for harvesting on the 1st of October.

Not expecting to compete for a premium, I cannot give the
exact amount of labor and expense bestowed upon this crop.
I have entered it because I consider the corn to be a very-
valuable variety, especially for ground liable to suffer from
early frost. The ear averages about eight inches in length,
but is filled to the tip with large, heavy kernels. One bushel
of ears has yielded 20 quarts of shelled corn, weighing 38
pounds.

Medfield, Nov. 11, 1852. .

Aaron D. WelcVs Statement.

As there will be a detailed report of the condition of my
land in my statement to Cheever Newhall, Esq., under im-
proved lands, &c., I must beg reference to that for the par-
ticulars, as it would be but a repetition in publishing the
Transactions of the Society, merely remarking that the land
was an old pasture, and this my second year's crop. The
account annexed is the result for the crop of 1852.

My best acre produced 83 bushels of shelled corn ; my next
best 751 bushels ; and the six acres averaged 59| bushels of
shelled corn to the acre; showing a profit for the year 1852,.
of $242 50.

My manure was all composed of meadow mud and leaf
mould, taken from the lots adjoining, and spoiled salt mackerel.

I have incorporated in my communication to Mr. Newhall
a detailed account of the exact cost and increased value of the
manure, and labor upon it, to which I also beg reference, and
which will be published in the Society's Transactions.

The following is the cost and product of six acres of land
planted to corn in 1852 :

Cost. — Thirty cords

manure, .

. $115 00

Ploughing,

. 15 00

Harrowing,

3 25

Seed corn,

• •

1 25

Planting,

. ,

. 12 00

434 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Hoeing, $18 00

Harvesting, 12 00

^176 50

Yield.— 358 bushels of corn at $1 per bush., $358 08
Fodder, 60 00

418 00

Net profit, $242 50

Weld Farm, Nov. 9, 1852.

Isaac H. Meserve's Statement.

The quantity of land on which I planted corn last spring,
measured 5| acres. In the spring of 1851, about one-half
of the piece was turned over and planted to corn, manured
with compost of meadow mad and night soil, about five cords
to the acre, and produced a very good crop. Last April I
ploughed the other half of the lot twelve inches deep, harrow-
ed it, then spread about six cords to the acre of compost of
meadow mud, barn and hog manure, then ploughed together
with the old ground cross- wise, without putting any manure
on the old ground. I then harrowed and planted on the 12th
and 17th days of May, putting one shovelful to three hills, of
a compost of street, hog manure and night soil, well mixed,
with four kernels in a hill. The top stalks were cut the 6th
and 7th of September ; I commenced harvesting the 24th of
September. The piece produced 390 baskets of good corn ;
one basket was shelled and measured 34 quarts ; there were 25
baskets of small corn, making 415 baskets, or a fraction over
76 1 bushels to the acre. The work was all done by inmates,
with the exception of a teamster, when the team was re-
quired.

Brook Farm, Oct. 30, 1852.

Hiram W. Joneses Statement.

The half acre of beans entered by me for premium, was
raised on soil of sandy loam on which beans were grown last
year.

The last of May one and a half cords of unfermented ma-

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 435

nure were spread on it and ploughed in, not with a view of
much benefiting the bean crop, but to prepare the land to
receive grass seed in the fall.

On the 1st of June, nothing having been done to the land
after ploughing, the beans were planted in rows, two feet
apart, about eight beans in a hill, the hills twenty inches apart
in the rows. The only after cultivation bestowed on them
was one hoeing. They were harvested the first of September,
and when threshed measured seven bushels and four quarts.
They were of the variety called marrowfats. I think that if
one-third more beans had been planted in each hill, the crop
would have been one-fourth greater.

The value of the crop is . - ^14 00

The cost, " " 9 75

Profit, ^4 25

Dover, Oct. 20, 1852.

Report of the Trustees on the Culture of "Wheat.

The subjoined statement is thought, by the Trustees, to be
worthy of particular attention. It affords conclusive proof that
wheat may be grown in Norfolk County, with as much profit
as in more fertile sections of the country ; and ought, thereforie,
to be held in more favorable regard as an article of culture in
this vicinity.

We learn, from an authentic source, that the average crop of
wheat in Massachusetts, for a period of ten years — from 1840
to 1850 — was 18 bushels per acre ; the average cost of culti-
vation, including interest on the value of the land, ^18 per
acre ; and the average net profit on the cost of cultivation,
$11 12 per acre.

In the instance here represented, we have a crop of 40 bushels
per acre, yielding, at the given prices for grain and straw,
(which do not seem unreasonably high,) a net profit of $31 07
per acre. The cost of cultivation was $73 21 per acre, which,
it will be seen, is much above the average cost. The value of
the land, however, is as much above the average price of tillage

436 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

lands in other parts of the county, it being eligible for build-
ing lots, in one of the most attractive places for a rural resi-
dence, near to the city. The wages of labor and the cost of
manure were, also, it is probable, higher than are generally
paid. So that an equal quantity of grain and straw might, in
many places, have yielded a larger profit ; a profit, too, which
would not be liable to much diminution by any diflerence in
the comparative value of those articles there.

It is stated, in the last report of this society, that wheat was
grown in this county in 1851, by an intelligent and thriving,
practical farmer, at a cost of about ^23 21 per acre, yielding
21|^ bushels of grain, valued at §29 10. But to this value of
the grain, should have been added the value of the straw,
which could not be less than ^10, making the total value of
the crop, §39 10, and the net profit, §15 89 per acre. If we
estimate the grain at the price paid for that grown at Milton,
it would be worth §38 38 ; and if the straw also be rated at a
like proportional quantity and value, it would be worth §34
28. Making the total value of the crop §73 56 per acre, and
the net profit of cultivation §50 35 per acre.

In Ohio, a wheat-growing State, the average crop for the
same period of time, is represented to have been 20 bushels per
acre ; the cost of cultivation, including interest on the value of
the land, §8 ; the value of the grain, 78 cts. per bushel, and
of the straw, §3 acre; leaving a net profit of §10 60 per
acre. In Indiana and Illinois, the average crop and cost of
cultivation were the same as in Ohio ; but the value of the
grain was 3 cts. less per bushel ; leaving a net profit of only
§8 per acre.

We need not, however, go into any comparison between the
cost and profit of this crop in this State, and in more produc-
tive sections of the country. We have instances enough at
hand, presented in the reports of our own agricultural societies,
for the last year, to prove that wheat may be grown as easily,
and with as sure and profitable results in Massachusetts?, as in
Ohio ; in Norfolk County, as in the valley of the Scioto or
Miami. The Essex Society gives an account in the last an-
nual report, of a crop of wheat grown in that county, and upon
a soil, too, not the most favorable to this grain, which yielded
39 bushels per acre. Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden So-

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 437

ciety reports a crop yielding 37|- bushels per acre. Hampden
Society reports six crops, which yielded, respectively, 29} i,
30.^, Sl^^g, 3311, 37,1^ and 38 bushels per acre ; affording, res-
pectively, a net profit of $17 50, $31 52, $23 83, $27 42, $45
87^ and $30 30 per acre. Franklin Society reports two crops,
yielding, respectively, 35 and 29l| bushels per acre. The first
of these afforded a net profit of $46 55 per acre. The value of
the other is not stated. Berkshire Society reports seven crops,
for which premiums were given, and one of them is stated to
have yielded 28| bushels per acre. Housatonic Society reports
tiventij-frve crops entered for premium, nearly all of which were
good, giving promise of abundant returns for the labor be-
stowed. Plymouth Society reports one crop, yielding 24|-
bushels per acre. These facts have been gleaned from the last
abstract of the reports of the several agricultural societies in
the Commonwealth. Other and more minute statements may
be found, probably, in the reports themselves.

It needs only that the attention of our farmers should be
drawn to such facts, that a careful selection and thorough pre-
paration of the soil for a crop of wheat be made, and the ordi-
nary precautions of a judicious method of cultivation be adopt-
ed. We may then find this great staple article of consump-
tion produced on our own soil, to an amount which shall make
us much less dependent on other States than we now are, and
at the same time add largely to the encouragement and com-
fort of the cultivators of that soil.

It may be of service to add here some facts and suggestions
contained in the report on European Agriculture, by the late
Mr. Coleman, whose attention was largely devoted to this
subject.

Mr. Coleman says that " the average yield of wheat in Great
Britain, was stated by men of political standing, and claiming
to be well informed on the subject, at not more than 15 bushels
per acre. An eminent agricultural writer placed it at 18 bushels
some years since ; men of sanguine temperament rate it at over
30 bushels. This seems to me much too low. Under sood
cultivation, I have scarcely ever found it less than 32 bushels."
In another connection, he says, " I suppose there is no country
where the average yield of wheat is so large as in England ;
and this product has nearly doubled within the last thirty or

438 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

forty years." He mentions several instances of crops ranging
from 40 to 90 bushels per acre. These must, of course, have
been produced on the best soil, and under most favorable cir-
cumstances. They are, however, encouraging, as results of
improved methods of cultivation.

" In France," says Mr. Coleman, " the average crop in the
best districts, is stated at 22 bushels." But he also famishes
statements of crops of 44, 50 and 72 bushels per acre, and adds
that " the product of wheat in France has nearly doubled with-
in eighty years." " In France," he continues, " which produces
nearly 200,000,000 bushels, or more than half the crop of wheat
grown in Europe, much of the soil is unfavorable to this grain,
from its excessive dryness." This disadvantage, however, is
overcome by the free use of the subsoil plough, the harrow and
the roller. The subsoil plough, we think, may be used more
freely, and with great benefit in Norfolk County, and the ap-
plication of both harrow and roller to the growing grain, has,
in our own experience, been followed by a large increase of the
crop. " In Great Britain, the climate is particularly favorable
to the growth of wheat, because of its equable temperature
and its humidity. But its humidity renders the harvest pre-
carious."

" Wetness is peculiarly unfriendly to wheat. Surface water
that remains long upon the soil, or wetness, which stagnates
and remains long in the soil, is highly prejudicial to it. The
soil in which it is grown to most advantage, is a deep alumi-
nous soil, not so clayey as to prevent its being thoroughly
cultivated. It requires, therefore, a good mixture of calcareous
or siliceous matter. A soil of excessive lightness or looseness
is not favorable, and a hard and impermeable soil equally un-
congenial." The application of clay to light soils, however,
renders them well suited to the growth of wheat, and produc-
tive of large crops. " The soil cannot be too deeply cultivated
for wheat. The roots of the plant descend perpendicularly,
and spread themselves laterally and broadly in search of food.
It would be a mistake to plough too deeply for this crop at the
time of sowing the seed, and it is always useful to roU or tread
the soil after it is sown ; but it is desirable that it should find
a deep, mellow bed below."

" Wheat cannot be too clean, or be kept too clean from

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 489

weeds ; and for this reason it should follow a crop which has
been kept thoroughly weeded."

" The method of sowing wheat, both in England and
France," says Mr. C, " is generally in drills, or by dibbling, or
planting a few seeds in hills, sLx or more inches apart, by a
hoe. The crop is then cultivated and. kept clean by the free
use of the horse hoe or the scuffle hoe. When the seed is
sown broadcast, the harrow is always drawn over the growing
crop two or three times. The largest crops of which any ac-
count has been given, were grown in drills or in hills." It may
seem useless in this country, where labor is so dear and every
hand has work enough, to think of such a method of sowing
and cultivating this grain. But if crops so extraordinary as
are those represented, can be produced in this way — of 50, 70,
and 80 or 90 bushels — it may be well worth its cost to make
the trial of it, even here.

"The practice of drilling wheat," says ]\Ir. Coleman, "is, in
my opinion, greatly to be preferred to that of sowing broad-
cast ; first, in the much more equal distribution of the seed ;
next, in the better opportunity which the wheat has of spread-
ing, or tillering ; and thkdiy, in the opportunity of cleaning
and cultivating the crop, which last is of great importance. I
am of an opinion, borne out strongly by facts which have come
under my observation, that wheat, in the early periods of its
growth, is as much benefited by cultivation as any plant
which is grown ; and the injury which is done both to the
growth of the plant and the sample of grain, by the weeds
which ripen their seeds among it, renders the w^eeding or
cleaning the crop of great importance."

Of manures proper to be applied to wheat, wood ashes seems
to be, in all cases, most beneficial. Mr. Coleman remarks,
that in 3,600 cases which came under his observation when
occupying the office of agricultural commissioner in this State,
the application of this manure was serviceable in every case,
and the practice is to be commended. Lime, also, has a
highly beneficial effect. We have ourselves used a compost
of ashes, bone dust and guano, with great effect. Green ma-
nures should never be used, except with the crop preceding
wheat, or upon sward ground, which is ploughed in the fall to
receive seed in the spring. Liquid manures will produce re-

440 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

markable and beneficial effects, whether applied just before
sowing, or during the growth of the crop. The ahnost univer-
sal preventive for smut in wheat, is, washing it in stale urine,
or in a strong brine, and then sifting upon it lime.

Early sowing is strongly recommended, and generally prac-
tised, both here and in Europe. Reaping the grain before it
becomes fully hard, is thought to be essential both to the quan-
tity and quality of the harvest.

We are happy to observe that the subject is receiving in-
creased attention in many parts of our State. In several of
the reports to which we have referred, will be found instructive
observations upon the culture of wheat, and well-drawn state-
ments of crops which have been obtained. "We commend
them, in connection with the statement given below, to the
careful study of our farmers, and especially of those who now
regard wheat as an unprofitable crop to be grown in this sec-
tion of the country.

S. Frothingham, Jr.^s, Statement.

Statement of a crop of wheat obtained from an area of two
and one-tenth acres upon Milton Hill, Milton : —

Ploughing and labor, ....
One-half of 10 cords manure, ($5 delivered,)
5 bushels wheat, $2 25, (4|- bushels planted,) .
Reaping, threshing, &c., ....
Interest on land, which cost ^300 per acre,

Harvested 84 bushels, at $1 75,
" G tons straw, at $12,

Net profit, .... , . . $65 25

The field was a tough sward, that had not been ploughed
for 12 or 15 years. It had a good top-dressing in the .spring,
was mowed in July, ploughed immediately after, and the
wheat put in about the 20th of September, so that it got
a good hold before the hard frosts set in. The planting was
experimental, as regards the wheat, the field being turned up
only with a view to put it down to grass again the following

. $32

49 50

$153

$147

iftOIQ

$^x»

\J\J

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 441

autumn, which has been done without the application of
farther manure, an entire decomposition of the sod and ma-
nure not having taken place.

Though the area planted has two and one-tenth acres, yet
the above product was obtained from somewhat less than two
acres, in consequence of the lodgement of at least a third of an
acre, which was either cut green or yielded nothing at harvest.

The threshing was performed by machine, in the open air,
by which process there was a great waste ; computed as high
as four or five bushels.

In consequence of an over-estimate as to the size of the
field, too much seed was unquestionably planted. The prices
named are what were realized upon all that the owner could
spare of both wheat and straw. One lot of 30 bushels sup-
plied an order from Kentucky, through one of our leading
agriculturists, for seed. The price of the wheat may be more
than its worth in the market for grinding, but the owner would
be sorry to part with what he reserved for his own use for
double that sum, having the convenience of a mill near his
residence, where it can be ground, a bushel or two at a time,
and which, unbolted, makes certainly the sweetest bread that
was ever eaten.

Peach Orchards.

The committee report that there has been only one orchard
presented for examination, namely, that of INIr. Jason Reed, of
Milton, whose statement is annexed.

As the premium of the society was offered for orchards in a
"bearing condition," the committee had no authority to award
a prize except to such as were in fruit.

The committee had the pleasure of examining Mr. Reed's
peach orchards last year, and are happy again to bear testi-
mony to the success which has attended his cultivation ; but
as a gratuity was then awarded to him, it has not been deemed
expedient to grant another at this time.

By Mr. Reed's statement it will be seen, that, previous to
the fruiting of his trees, he has cultivated other crops between
them. This course may not be injurious, but unless the soil
56

442 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

is highly favorable, it is questionable whether this system ulti-
mately would be economical. Your committee are confident
that it would not be judicious when the trees are producing
fruit.

The committee were happy to notice that Mr. Reed con-
tinues to mulch the ground arovind his bearing trees, the
advantages of which, in our hot and dry summers, can hardly
be over-estimated.

I"or the committee,

Marshall P. Wilder.
December 15, 1852.

Jason ReecVs Statement.

The number of trees in the peach orchard offered by me for
premium, is 111. They were set out the first week in May,
1850, in ground where the sward had been broken up the pre-
vious fall, being at that time one year old from the bud. No
manure was applied at the time of setting, but fine loam from
the surface of a cultivated field was used to cover the roots.
In 1850 and 1851, about two-thirds of the orchard was planted
with corn, and the other third with potatoes, all manured in
the hill, at the rate of three cords to the acre, and about three
or four quarts of leached ashes applied to each tree. This
year no ashes have been applied, but double the quantity of
manure has been put in the hill, and the whole planted with
potatoes. The trees are set at the distance of 11 feet by 12
apart, and the crops have been planted in rows both ways, a
tree taking the place of every third hill each way, in the rows
in which they stand.

The above has generally been my mode of cultivation and
management in all my peach orchards, containing now about
1,200 trees, and set out in different years from 1847 to 1852,
inclusive.

After the trees have come to bearing, my practice Has been
to mulch ihem, covering over the whole ground. This answers
many useful purposes. It preserves a more uniform tempera-
ture to the roots of the trees ; it retains the moisture ; it keeps
the ground in a loose and mellow state ; it prevents the growth
of weeds and grass; it saves the fruit that drops from bruises

NOS-FOLK SOCIETY. 443

and stains; and, as the material decays, it acts as a manure
and fertilizer.

The soil on which the proposed orchard stands, is a stifi',
gravelly loam ; the trees are all the red and ycRoiu rareripe,
and are now well set with blossom buds for another year.

Milton, Oct. 30, 1852.

Clearing and Enclosing Unimproved Lands.

The committee on clearing and enclosing unimproved lands
report: — That there was but one application for the premium
otfered by the society, which was by Aaron D. Weld, Esq., of
West Roxbury. The land the committee was called to view
consisted of nine acres, two of which had been used for many
years as a deposit for stones, collected from adjoining lands,
and was considered by Mr. Weld of no value ; the other seven
acres was pasture land, and had been used as such for many
years.

In the fall of 1850 he commenced upon this lot, dug up, col-
lected and carted away the stones. In the spring of 1851,
after preparing the land for a crop, he planted six acres with
corn, which yielded 200 bushels, or 33^^ bushels per acre. In
the fall of the same year, clearing the entire lot of nine acres
was completed. This spring he planted six of the nine acres
with corn, which included the lowest and roughest part, and a
portion of that in corn the previous year, which produced 358
bushels of sound shelled corn, or 59| bushels per acre. Your
committee examined this field of corn in the month of Sep-
tember, and found the land free from weeds, and in good order
for any crop the coming year. The corn was planted in rows,
three feet apart, and the hills in the rows two feet apart, with
four stalks in a hill, which was judged to be the proper dis-
tance for this soil.

The corn was topped about the first of September, but
your committee believe that by cutting the entire stalk at the
bottom, and stooking until well dried, the fodder would be
more valuable and the grain at least as good.

444 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Mr. Weld's account of the quantity, quality and cost of the
manure, the expense of cultivation, together with the cost of
clearing, and the expense of laying 116 rods of stone wall, is
hereto appended and makes a part of this report. ]t will be
perceived by the statement of Mr. Weld, that the manure
applied last year was principally meadow mud, and that he
applied this year on the whole six acres, but five cords of barn-
yard manure, together with twenty-five cords of meadow mud
and leaf mould, composted with sixty barrels of tainted fish,
which shows the great value of this, and similar matter when
properly composted and applied to the land.

It further appears, by his statement, that by an expenditure
of eighteen dollars per acre in reclaiming his land, which was
unproductive and of little value, he has succeeded in obtaining
valuable crops of corn, which have paid the expense of manur-
ing and cultivating, and yielded a net income of fourteen dol-
lars per acre annually for the last two years. In addition to
this amount of income, the committee believe that one-third
of the manure applied the last two years is yet unexhausted,
that the land should receive credit for one-third of the cost of
the manure so applied, ($7 30,) which, added to the income,
as before stated, will increase the profits to $21 30 per acre
annually.

The success of Mr. Weld, in the use of compost, we hope
will induce the farmer to save all the refuse matter of every
kind upon his premises, and obtain all he can elsewhere at a
reasonable cost ; to bear in mind that every animal and vege-
table substance can be made to become the food for plants,
and produce astonishing results by a judicious admixture with
the soil.

The art of applying guano, bones, lime, clay and plaster of
of Paris to the soil, is fast becoming known, and he who omits
to inform himself of their proper application will find that he
is unable to pursue his labors to a profit, that he cannot com-
pete against the augmented profits arising out of a stientific
application of manure and labor to the purposes of the farm.

Your committee believe that the object of our society is to
improve and perfect agriculture ; that we should award our
premiums to those who produce the greatest quantity at the
least cost, and nothing is more conducive to such results than

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 445

making and applying manures " in the best manner and with
the greatest economy."

The committee, in consideration of the care and atention
required to keep and render a correct account of the incidental
expenses, and for the judicious course of management in re-
claiming this portion of his farm, award to Mr. Weld the first
premium of $15.

For the committee,

Cheever Newhall, Chairman.
Dorchester, Nov. 30, 1852.

Aaron D. WekVs Statement,

That part of my farm which your committee were requested
particularly to examine, was originally divided into three lots,
badly walled, and containing about four, seven, and nine acres
each. The two smaller lots had been partially cultivated, and
latterly used entirely for pasturing. The nine acre lot was
rough, stony and unsightly, every part of it. Upon two acres
of it stones had been carted for a long term of years, and left
as tipped from the carts, and had grown up to alder bushes
and wild roses, — full of springs, with a hard clay subsoil, so
that there was no real value to it. The remaining seven acres
were dry, worn-out pasture land, with a reddish subsoil. I
commenced reclaiming this lot September, 1850, by removing
the old division walls, and divided the land into two parcels,
laid and reset 116 rods of wall permanently and well, for which
I paid from 75 cents to $1 33 per rod, amounting to $128 54,
which is not included in my estimate.

Drains were dug, three feet deep and three wide, with a free
passage for water on the bottom, filled up with stone to the
surface ; this was upon that part containing about two acres.
"What stones were not placed in the ditches were placed in
one large mound, and must contain from six to ten hundred
loads, or more. A small portion of the lowest part was cover-
ed with soil from the ditches and loam from the old walls
sufhciently deep to prevent their interference with any ordi-
nary ploughing hereafter.

This lot was planted with corn in the spring of 1851, and I

446 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

gathered a croj3 of 200 bushels from six acres, or 331 bushels
to the acre.

In the spring of 1852, six acres were measured and planted
with corn ; this took in the lowest and roughest part of the lot,
and a portion of that planted the previous year with corn.
The balance of the lot was planted with potatoes.

My best acre produced 83 bushels ; the next best 75| bush-
els ; and the whole produced 358 bushels of shelled corn,
averagine: 59,'^ bushels to the acre.

The last year the corn was manured with 37 cords of
meadow mud ; worked over by 25 hogs during the summer.
My crop this season was manured with 25 cords of compost,
made with meadow mud and leaf mould from the adjoining
lots, and sixty barrels of spoiled salt fish, in pickle, and about
five cords carted from my barnyard.

I herewith submit, first, an account of the labor in preparing
the land for cultivation, (which includes everything except the
walls,) marked A. Second, an account with this six acres for
two years, showing a profit of ^167 75, marked B. That
part planted with potatoes decayed in the hill, except the
Davis seedling ; they came out prolific, large and fine, while
other varieties, on each side, under similar cultivation, were
not worth the harvesting.

I should say in this account that I had pumpkins both years
with my corn, and as I omitted a small] portion of guano and
plaster, which I experimented with, one will offset the other,
though the value of the pumpkins was more to me than the
cost of the guano, &c. My corn was planted in rows, three
feet apart, and the hills not less than two feet apart, and four
stalks left to the hill.

Cost of labor in preparing nine acres of unimproved lands"
for cultivation (excluding the walls). Labor of men at cost,
averaging 85 cents per day. Labor of oxen at 75 ceijts per
day, which I consider at 25 cents more than cost of keep-
ing.

1850.

Sept. For 8 days' labor, cutting bushes, at 85 cts., . $7 00
" piling stone in heap, per agreement, . 4 50

NORFOLK SOCIETY.

447

1851.

April.

May.

Sept.
Oct.

Nov.

For 6 days' labor of men, at 85 cts.,
" 12 " " oxen, at 75 cts.,

" drawing off stone, 9 days' labor of men

at 85 cts., ....
" 8 days' labor of oxen, at 75 cts
" 19.] " « ditching, .

" 3 " " drawing stone,

"' 2 yoke of oxen 1 day,
" 7 men one day, at 85 cts
" 4 yoke of oxen 1 day,
" 1 horse 1 day, .
" 11] days' labor of men,
" 21- " " oxen,

" 40" " " men, at 85 cts.,

" 25 " " oxen, carting stone to

ditch and heap, carting loam from old
wall to low land and hauling stone, at

75 cts.,

" 21 days' labor of men, at 85 cts.,
" 11 " » oxen, at 75 cts.,

$5 10
9 00

7 65

6 00

16 58

2 55

50
95
00
00

9 77

1 88

35 00

$161 33

Cost of bringing into cultivation six acres of unimproved
land, being a part of nine or ten acres, as per statement, and
the crops from the same for two years, say 1851 and 1852.

1851.

For 37 cords of manure, valued at $4 per cord, as per

following statement, $148 00

" mud from my meadow, valued before removing
it, at 50 cts. per cord.

" digging the mud and carting it to upland, for dry-
ing, 75 cts. per cord.

" carting same to barn cellar and back to field, $1
per cord.

" estimated increased value of mud after havinsf
been worked over by my hogs, $1 75 per cord.

" 2 yoke of oxen and 2 men 12 days, breaking up

six acres, at $1 25 each, is $5 per day, . . 60 00

448 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

For harrowing — 2 horses and 1 man 2 days, at $3 25

per day, $6 50

" cross ploughing — 3 teams 2 days — 1 yoke of oxen

and 1 man each, at $7 50 per day, . . . 15 00

" planting — 6 men 2 days, at $1 per day, . . 12 00

« « 1 horse, 1 00

" 1st hoeing, 8 men and 1 horse 1 day, at $1, . 9 00

" 2d " 9 00

" seed corn, ....... 1 25

" harevsting . . . . . . . . 12 00

$273 75
1852.

For 30 cords of manure, valued as follows : —
" 60 barrels of spoiled mackerel, in pickle.

cost, ......

carting same from Boston, .

25 cords of meadow mud and leaf mould

from lot adjoining, $2 per cord,
5 cords of manure from barnyard,

$30 00
10 00

50 00
25 00

115 00

" ploughing — 2 teams of 1 yoke of oxen and 1 man

each, 3 days, at |1 25 each, is $5 per day, . 15 00

" harrowing — 1 day, 2 horses and 1 man, . . 3 25

" seed corn, 1 25

" planting — 10 days' work of men and 2 do. do. of

horses, 12 00

" hoeing twice, 18 00

" harvesting, . . . . ". . . . 12 00

$450 25

1851. CREDIT.

By 200 bushels of corn, at 80 cts. per bush. $160 00

" fodder, worth 40 00 •

1852.

By 358 bushels of corn, at $1 per bushel, . 358 00 '

" fodder, worth 60 00

618 00

Net profit, $167 75

Weld Farm, West Roxbury, Nov. 27, 1852.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 449

SUGGESTIONS

To the Members of the Norfolk Agricultural Society., Written at
the Request of the Trustees, by one of its Members.

BY B. V. FRENCH.

The writer does not intend to give instructions, or even
hints, to the old farmers of this society. Those who have been
long in practice, know better than himself what should be
done, and if old practitioners, and not wise in their calling,
they will be too old to learn. So to the new beginner alone
will I address myself.

I will imagine you are about commencing on a worn out
farm. If your buildings will answ^er at all, let them remain
until you have fully determined what disposition to make of
them. If new ones are to be erected, avoid a high elevation,
let them be placed well back from the road, and thrown off at
liberal distances one from another, as you can make no better
use of your land than by giving ample space to your build-
ings. In your mansion, study coziness and a degree of sim-
ple elegance, rather than an imposing exterior. On this, I will
not enlarge, but refer you to the works of the lamented Down-
ing, on country houses, cottage residences and grounds. They
contain plans and estimates adapted to every style, from the
simple, yet taseful farm house, to the costly summer residence
of the man of wealth and leisure. Before you move in this
matter, obtain a survey of your lands, sit like a juror in your
case before you commence, for it is enough for a farmer to do
his work once ; he cannot afford to take down and rebuild. Do
a little at a time, bring around you all the information that you
can command, and do that little well. We will presume that
you have now decided on the location of your buildings, and
the future enclosure of each of your fields. Let them be rather
large, from ten to twenty acres each, unless you have a sur-
plus of stone to be disposed off; in that case let your en-
closures be no larger than to dispose of all your stone ; first,
dig up all the stone that can be raised by iron bars ; two men
should work at this together. Dig round and lay bare all the
boulders, pull up by oxen such as can be canted out of their
57

450 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

beds by one, two, or three yoke of oxen, split or blast the re-
mainder, till you get them all out ; dig a trench from three to
three and a half feet wide, and from two to four feet deep,
which fill with your small and refuse stone. Fill your stone
holes with the loam taken from the trench. Lay your wall on
this foundation, a balance wall will be preferred. These
trenches will take off much of the surface and spring water,
and will be likely to keep open or free. If it remains too wet,
procure from A. S. Babcock, Albany, some of his three and a
half inch tile ; follow his directions in laying them, which will be
about three feet deep and twenty feet apart. These drains can
be put down at less cost than any others, and will work well.

In your first ploughing you will have a broken sod ; break
up with Prouty & Mears' road plough, turn over the broken
sods with a spade, to keep a clean, open furrow, follow with
iron bars and take out all the loose stone, mark the fast ones
to take out when the ploughing is finished. Carry off the
small stones as fast as they are thrown out. Your lot is now
ploughed, at an average depth of twelve inches. Put on this
lot, if in season, about six cords of manure broadcast to the
acre, together with six bushels of salt and thkty bushels of
ground bone. The salt can be purchased from Ward & Co.
at twenty cents, and the bone at thirty cents per bushel. Give
the land a harrowing, and plant corn in drills for fodder for
your cows, or sow broadcast a thimbleful of purple top stropped
leaved turnip seed to every three square rods ; sow them with
your thumb and fingers carefully, roll the same with your farm
roller. When the turnip seed is up in its smooth leaves, sow
broadcast when it rains gently, or in a low atmosphere, 300
lbs. guano mixed with plaster, to the acre. The yield for this
year will be quite satisfactory.

Second year plough deep, and follow with a subsoil plough,
with sufficient team, to the depth of twenty inches from the
surface. Cross plough and harrow, then put on ten cords good
manure, together with ten bushels salt to the acre, plough it in
shallow, harrow and plough till quite fine, then harrow with a
light harrow, taking off as often as they appear, all the small
stones. Now draw a line across the lot at each end, a rod
from the wall, and mark out a small trench, then take two
lines and stretch lengthwise of the lot, two feet from the wall

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 451

and three feet apart ; let two men take a basket of potatoes,
medium size, and place in a line twelve inches apart, and so
continue the placing of the potatoes on the lot. You will in
all cases begin at the cross lines marked out, and follow the
lines, laying them down with care. Now with your heel, or
what is better, take a piece of 4 by 5 joist, one foot long, make
a hollow in the end of a proper size, reduce the end of the
driver to the end of the cavity, and with a long, slim handle
nailed on, drive each potato down just below the surface. As
soon as your potatoes are up, without delay plough amongst
them, turning the earth from them to the centre. If you have
done your work correctly, you will now have about four inches
of earth left undisturbed. As soon as all your potatoes are
up, stir this narrow belt of earth with a narrow garden hoe ;
in about a week, when all the weeds will be vigorous, plough
the earth back to the potatoes, and with a hoe, earth up and
destroy all the weeds. Plough your headlands, harrow down,
sow turnip seed, roll, and your land is finished till harvesting.

Third year plough fine, sow barley for fodder. Plough and
harrow it in, then sow half a bushel of herds-grass, one bushel
of redtop seed and six pounds of clover to the acre ; brush in
the grass seed, rake smooth, pick off the stones, and your work
is done.

Fourth and fifth years mow it for its grass. Sixth year feed
it off. Seventh year plough it cross-wise of your subsoiling,
and fourteen inches deep, which is two inches deeper than
when first ploughed, and bringing up two inches of subsoil.
This should be done with the Michigan soil and subsoil
plough. You have now a tender sod laid in the bottom of the
furrow ; you can now put on your manure and plough it in,
without disturbing your grass seed. All sod land can be bet-
ter ploughed in July than any other time ; your sod will soon
decay, and you will avoid grass in the furrow slice. You can
feed it till July, plough up, and get a crop of turnips if you
choose.

You have now one piece of land enclosed, ploughed to the
depth of fourteen inches, drained, and in order for a garden,
orchard, or any high tillage. When once enclosed, avoid all
trespassing by man, beast or fowl, as you can have no perfect

452 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

tillage with these drawbacks. Having finished one piece, you
can now begin another, until you have finished your farm, not
forgetting at every time you break up the sod, to plough up
two inches of the subsoil, until you have a free depth of 24
inches.

Essays.

The committee on essays submit the following papers, be-
ing all that have been presented for their consideration, viz. : —

A valuable communication on the Soiling of Cattle, em-
bracing the experience of the venerable ^'•Farmer of Quincy,"
for a period of about thirty years.

An essay on the Principles of Ploughing, by Sanford
Howard, Esq.

A paper on the Cultivation of the Basket Willow, by John
Fleming, Jr.

As these papers treat of entirely different subjects, the com-
mittee have deemed them worthy of publication, evincing, as
they do, much practical knowledge and well-digested reflection.

The document by Mr. Quincy will be read with satisfaction
and profit by all who have given any attention to the subject
on which he writes, and from which will be derived much valu-
able information.

The essay on the Principles of Ploughing is written in that
clear, perspicuous style, that "he who runs may read," and
cannot fail to commend itself as possessing sound argument,
based on practical experience.

The essay on the Basket Willow was furnished by one
largely interested in its cultivation and manufacture, and who
is familiar with the subject in all its branches. This paper
was communicated to the Trustees by request, being such in-
formation as the author was willing to impart. For a* further
investigation of this subject, they recommend the Treatise
about to be published by the author of this article.

The committee, believing that these articles will add interest
to the present volume of the Transactions of the Society, and

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 453

with a view to encourage a continuance of similar communi-
cations, award, —

First. To the honored and senior member of the society,
JosiAH QuiNCY, their grateful acknowledgments for his kind
compliance with the society's request to submit the result of
his long and valuable experience. And, further to evince our
gratitude for the service performed, the committee award
him, instead of a pecuniary consideration, the diploma of the
society.

Second. To Sanford Howard, for his essay on the Princi-
ples of Ploughing, a premium of ten dollars.

TJiird. To John Fleming, Jr., for a paper on the Basket
Willow, its cultivation, &c., a premium of ten dollars.

The committee have ascertained that the author of the prize
essay, " The Wise Man is Strong," published in the Transac-
tions of last year, is Mr. Edward Lillie Pierce, of Dorchester.

For the committee,

Marshall P. Wilder, Chairman.

ON THE SOILING OF CATTLE.

BY HON. JOSIAH QUINCY, SENIOR.

To the Trustees of the Norfolk Agricultural Society:

Gentlemen, — In conformity with your request, I proceed to
state "my experience, practice and views," on the subject of
"soiling;" by which I understand the keeping cattle in the
barn and feeding them with green food during the summer
months, allowing them, daily, only a few hours' liberty of a
yard, instead of feeding them in pastures. I do not, however,
expect to communicate anything which may not easily be
gathered from European writers; knowing, also, the great pro-
portion of land in the State thought to be exclusively appli-
cable to pasturage, I do not anticipate that any statement on
the topic can be generally useful. Yet, to those farmers who
have no land which may not easily be subjected to the plough,
and to that increasing class who possess only ten, fifteen, or

454 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

twenty acres of land, the system is very important ; a knowl-
edge of my "experience and practice" may be useful, I there-
fore, comply with your request.

Between the years 1813 and 1821, I managed my farm,
according to my own judgment, with satisfactory success. My
attention was early drawn to the subject of "soiling" milch
cows, in the summer season, instead of keeping them in pas-
ture, from the following circumstances : My farm consisted of
about 170 acres of good loam, level, without stone, almost
every square foot of which might be easily made subject to
the plough, with the exception of about twenty acres, which
was salt marsh. Nearly half of it had been always applied
to pasture, and had upon it, by estimate, four or five miles of
interior fence, which could not have cost, originally, less than
$1,600, and being post and rail, annually cost about $60 in
repair. My farm being compact, the annoyance of having
fifteen or twenty head of cattle driven night and morning to
and from pasture, the loss of time in turning the plough,
owing to the number of interior fences, and the loss of surface
capable of being submitted to the plough, owing to the many
head-lands, all drew my attention to the subject of "soiling,"
and its effects.

I found that European writers maintained that sbc distinct
advantages were to be attained by the practice of " soiling,"
over that of pasturing cattle in the summer season.

1. It saved land.

2. It saved fencing.

3. It economized food.

4. It kept the cattle in better condition and greater comfort.

5. It produced more milk.

6. It increased, immensely, the quantity and quality^ of the
manure.

Satisfied, in my own mind, of the beneficial effects of the
practice, I adopted it in the year 1815, and adhered to it until
the year 1822, keeping from fifteen to twenty head of milch
cows with such satisfactory success that in the year 1820 and
1821, at the request of the Trustees of the Massachusetts So-
ciety for Promoting Agriculture, I published in their Reposi-
tory two essays, entitled " Remarks on Soiling," and which
may be found in Vol. VI., pages 113-125, and in pages 334-

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 455

348 of that publication. In the year 1822, 1 gave up the direct
management of my farm and leased it, from considerations
wholly independent of any dissatisfaction with this practice or
its results.

From that time, being occupied in various public offices in
Boston and its vicinity, I exercised no superintendence of my
farm for about twenty-five years. Resuming its management
in 1847, I immediately returned to the practice of " soiling,''
resorted to the essays I had formerly published, to revive my
knowledge on the subject, and from that time to the present
have persevered in the practice with such entire satisfaction
that no consideration would induce me to adopt any other.
Since 1847, I have kept from thirty to thirty-five head of milch
cows in this way, so that, in my mind, my experience is con-
clusive on the subject.

Every one of the advantages above stated, as being main-
tained by European writers, I have realized.

1. As to saving of land. One acre " soiled from," will
produce as much as three acres pastured. This is enough,
although some European writers assert the benefit is equal to
one to seven. This great difference arising from the mode
in which the one acre is cultivated and enriched for succulent
products.

2. As to saving of fencing. It renders all interior fences
useless. It enables the plough to pass through any length of
land without turning, and saves all waste from headland?,
which on each side of fences are usually the receptacles of
unsightly and noxious weeds.

3. As to economy of food. Cattle will eat in the stall what
they will reject in the field. They tread down and injure in
the pasture, by dung or by stale, grass as good and almost in
equal quantities with that which they consume, and by their
feet injure its present product and future productive power.

4. As to the better condition and greater comfort of the
cattle. In the stall they are supplied every day, five or six
times, with food given regularly in sufficient quantity. And
previous preparation having been made, they can never fail,
let the season be what it will, of always having the best food
and enough. When kept in the pasture they are left to their
own care, subject to various accidents, to the ill effects pro-

456 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

duced by worrying one another, and to the constantly varying-
state of the pasture, which is always affected by drought and
by the proportion of the number pastured, to the productive
power of the field, which is often overstocked. In stall feeding,
care having been taken to have sufficient succulent food pre-
pared, they are, in as great a degree as is possible, kept inde-
pendent of the variations of season and from other annoyances.
Their greater comfort, in this mode of keeping, is one of the
essential causes of their better condition. During the heat of
the day they are kept under cover in the shade, secured from
flies, from being worried by dogs or one another, from eating
any noxious vegetables and from bad water.

A popular objection to this mode of keeping milch cows, is,
that want of exercise must affect injuriously the health of the
animal. To this, European writers, some of whom have kept
in this way, large herds, reply, that they " never had one sick,
or one die, or one miscarry," in consequence of this mode of
keeping. After more than eight years' pursuance of the same
practice, my experience justifies me in uniting my testimony
to theirs on this point.

Another common-place objection to this practice in respect
of milch cows, is, that their " milk cannot be so good nor in so
great quantities, for want of exercise." Nothing can have
less foundation in fact. Cows in the pasture, unless under
some temporary excitement, use very little, — comparatively, no
exercise. They usually walk a short time, slowly, collect their
food and lie down to ruminate. The difference between this
habit of theirs and the exercise obtained by walking about an
hour or two hours in the day in a yard, and being employed
in rubbing themselves against walls or posts, is little, if any,
less than they get in the pasture. This exercise (a daily,
thorough currying being added in their stalls) is quite as
efficient to produce a healthful action of the system as any
exercise, as it is called, in the pasture.

5. As to the quantity of milk produced by this 'mode of
keeping, my own experience is, in my opinion, decisive in its
favor. In early summer, and when pastures are fresh in grass,
milk will be, for a short period, produced in somewhat greater
quantities by keeping in pasture than by " soiling." But this
advantage is of very short duration. As soon as pastures

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 457

grow short, and the annoyance of heat and flies commences,
all the advantage is transferred to stall feeding. By com-
parison of the result of my milk produced, with that of my
neighbors, taking both parts of the summer season together,
I am entirely satisfied that the product, by well-conducted
" soiling," is greatly in favor of this process.

6. As to the great increase in the quantity and quality of
the manure, there can be possibly no question on the subject.
Proper receptacles for this article being provided, free from
rain and the sun, into which the stale from the cattle may
be also received, the quantity and increased value of the
manure thus kept, is, according to my experience, a full
equivalent for all the labor and expense of raising, cutting,
and bringing in the food, feeding, currying and other care of
the cattle. No farmer need be told of the importance and
absolute necessity of manure for successful farming, and to
those who have not the means of purchasing that article, the
mode of "soiling" is of all others the most certainly produc-
tive of it, both in quantity and quality.

As to " my practice," in soiling, it relates, 1st. To the
quantity of land to be cultivated for the purpose of preparing
succulent food ; 2d. To the particular articles to be thus cul-
tivated, and 3d. To the times they are to be sown, so as to
effect a regular succession of such food.

1. As to the quantity of land to be cultivated. According
to my experience, one square rod of land, of rich loam in high
tilth in grass, oats, barley, or Indian corn, is enough for the
support of a cow a day, if cut and delivered to her in the
barn. As, however, there is a great difference in the state of
land and in its productive power, and as it is important there
should be no failure in succulent food, my practice has been
to cultivate one and a half square rods of land per day for
each head of cattle I intend to " soil." And on this basis I
make my calculations in the spring of the year ; for the quan-
tity to be sown, at every succeeding period, when to secure
a regular succession of such food, a new sowing is, required.
To make this calculation sufficiently exact, the length of time
it will take the article sown to come to maturity so as to be
fit to cut, and the length of time it will afterwards continue
succulent, are to be considered. The time it comes to such
58

458 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

a state of maturity, is, of course, the time at which it may
be relied upon for " soiling." A like reliance may be placed
on the time it will continue succulent. The general knowl-
edge of practical farmers and experience will easily give in-
formation on both points.

If any article sown in the spring will come to maturity on
the 1st of July, and will continue succulent ten days, fifteen
square rods of succulent food will be wanted for each cow
" soiled;" one cow will, therefore, consume fifteen square rods
during that period, and ten cows will require one hundred and
sixty rods, or about an acre of such food for their support.
On this basis of calculation I have always found the number
of square rods to be sowed, for such a period of succulency of
the plant is sufficient for about such a period of feeding, viz. :
ten days. On this calculation I have safely " soiled " from
thirty to thirty-five head of cattle, adding one acre of prepara-
tion for every ten head.

Should any one, however, adopt this practice for the first
time, I should advise the preparing two square rods for each
cow, to guard against every contingency to which a first at-
tempt may be liable. For nothing "will be lost, if the food
should prove more than was required. The surplus be-
comes a resource for the winter keeping, after it is too rank
for " soiling."

2. As to the particular articles to be thus cultivated. I have
tried many besides those above-mentioned, such as millet,
lucerne, cabbages, peas, the tops of caiTots, beets or turnips.
Each may be usefully applied in its proper season, particularly
the three last. And whoever keeps milch cows, will find roots
an important auxiliary for milk in the winter season, and, of
course, will find their tops a like important aid to " soiling"
in the latter months of autumn. But I think it best to
enumerate only the fewest, the simplest, and the best known
to all farmers, of the articles, which, from experience, I have
found the surest, and the best to be relied upon for a successful
conduct of the system. These are those already enumerated ;
oats, barley and Indian corn, sown broadcast or in drills, for
fodder.

3. The time in which the above articles are to be sown.
The usual period in this country for turning out cows to

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 459

pasture, is from the 20th of May to the 1st of June. Ante-
cedent to this period no succulent food can be obtained for
" soiling." Preparation, however, may be made the autumn
previous by sowing winter rye, according to the proportion
required for " soiling," from the 10th or 15th of the month of
May to the 1 st of June. This could be done with advantage,
but I have never practised it more than once; because, al-
though I have always had rye fit for cutting at this time,
yet it is too valuable, as grain and straw, for me so to use
it ; regarding as I do winter rye, at the usual prices of grain
and straw in this vicinity, to be the most profitable of any
grain product.

The reliance in the " soiling " system, for succulent food
between the 20th of INIay and the 1st of July is grass, cut and
delivered in the stable ; and according to my experience, one
and a half square rods per day for each cow " soiled " is ample
for this purpose. The grass thus cut was usually that which
is the least likely to be preferable for winter keep, such as that
growing by the side of my farm roads, or under trees, or that
having the rankest fibre.

The food sown and cultivated for soiling, in this climate,
must have exclusive reference to the summer and autumn
months, commencing with the first of July. And the follow-
ing is the order of sowing, according to my practice, justified
by experience, the proportion of land sowed at each successive
period, being as above stated, one and a half, or tivo square rods
per day, for each cow soiled. To produce a sufficient quantity
of succession of succulent food, sow —

1. As early in April as the state of the land will permit,
which is usually between the 5th and the 10th on properly pre-
pared land — oats, at the rate of four bushels to the acre.

2. About the 20th of the same month, sow either oats or
barley, at the same rate per acre, in like quantity and propor-
tions.

3. Early in May, sow in like manner either of the above
grains.

4. Between the 10th and 15th of May, sow Indian corn (the
flat, southern, being the best) in drills, three bushels to the
acre, in like quantity and proportions.

460 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

5. About the 25th of May, sow corn in like quantity and
proportions.

6. About the 5th of June, repeat the sowing of corn.

7. After the last mentioned sowing, barley should be sown
in the above-mentioned quantity and proportions, in succes-
sion, on the 15th and 25th of June, and on the 1st of, or early
in July. Barley being the best qualified to resist the early
frosts.

The results of the above sowing in succulent food, may be
expected to be as follows, seasons of exti-aordinary drought ex-
'cepted.

The oats sowed early in April, will be ready to be cut for
" soiling" between the 1st and 5th of July, and will usually re-
main succulent until the 12th or 15th of this month.

Those sowed about the 20th of April, will be ready to cut
between the 15th and 20th of July, and will last nearly or quite
till the 1st of August.

Those sowed early in May, will be ready to succeed the pre-
ceding, and last till about the 10th of this month.

The corn sown on the 10th and 25th of May, and early in
June, will supply in succession, succulent food of the best
quality, until early in September.

The barley sown in July, will continue a sufficient supply
until early in November ; at which time, and often before, the
tops of roots, carrots, beets or turnips, are a never failing re-
source.

In the above enumeration of articles to effect a succession
of succulent food for " soiling," I have carefully confined my-
self to those which were the fewest and the most commonly
known. I have also stated their succession in point of sowing
and use, as if no other articles could be brought in aid, for the
purpose that there may be no disappointment. Whereas, in
the latter end of July, and in August, second-crop grass may
be generally relied upon, and in September and October, the
tops of roots, as above-mentioned, and of Indian corn, are also
a reliable resource.

I have also stated a succession of sowings, which my ex-
perience has shown to be full and sufficient, and which, if the
quantity sowed should be equal to two square rods for each

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 461

cow " soiled," per day, will certainly be more than sufficient
for summer " soiling ;" but as before stated, if there should be
excess, nothing is lost, as it becomes a resource for winter food
for cattle.

I cannot close this communication, without remarking upon
the importance of this system, and of its being known and un-
derstood. Nothing seems less realized than the productive
power of the soil, when it is good, arable, and well cultivated.
A man hardly dares to call himself, in our country, a farmer,
unless he have thirty, forty, or fifty acres. If he have only ten,
fifteen, or twenty, he aspires only to the character of a gar-
dener ; but as to keeping any number of cattle beyond what is
wanted for his own family use, he generally regards it wholly
out of the question. Now there is in our country no class of
men whom it is more desirable to encourage and instruct in
the actual productive power of the quantity of land they
possess, than these ten, fifteen, or twenty acre men. As this
class multiplies, as it must, it will become a most important
element in preserving and perpetuating conservative principles
in" our institutions. The consciousness of an identity of in-
terest between the small and the great landholder, is in a re-
public, one of the strongest bonds of its continuance and hap-
piness. A practical knowledge of the productive power of the
soil, and of the mode of making its yield the most, will not
only create in"them content, but will prevent them from run-
ning into debt for more land, a practice, of all others, the most
embarrassing and ruinous to that class of farmers. That this
class may obtain distinct and practical knowledge of the mode
of operating on a small scale, on this system, I state that I
have known two head of milch cows kept in full milk and high
condition through the whole summer season on one acre of
land, and some food from it left for winter use. To obtain the
requisite succession of green food, one-quarter of an acre was
sown of articles herein already stated, early in April, another
quarter about fifteen days after the first, and so the remaining
two quarters in similar succession.

The first sown will be in a state to be used in " soiling"
about the 1st of July, until which time, grass cut and brought
to the stable is the reliance. From the 1st to the loth of July,
the food obtained from the first quarter of an acre, will be

462 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

usually a full supply. As soon as this quarter of an acre is fed
off, it is to be well manured,— of which the cattle will have
afforded an abundance, — ploughed, or spaded, and the articles
above stated, sowed and rolled in. The same process is to be
pursued in respect of every succeeding quarter of an acre, as
soon as it is fed off, as long as the season will permit an ex-
pectation of a crop from such sowing.

Of course, a farmer upon such a small scale, will have roots
of some kinds, carrots, beets, turnips or cabbages, for winter
supply, which will come in aid of the food of the one acre, to
such a degree that the articles sown upon it will become also
in part a reserve for winter supply. 1 have stated that two
cows may thus be kept on one acre during the summer season,
because I know the trial has been made with complete success
by another individual ; but from my own experience I do not
hesitate to state that three cows may thus be kept in full milk
and in high condition on a single acre. Whoever commences
the system, should begin on a small scale. Experience will
show the way to success. The great profit of the system is
the abundance of manure which it insures, of the best quality,
at the cheapest rate. The importance of manm-e to successful
husbandry, it is not for me to explain. Whoever has no funds
to purchase it, will find no mode so sure, so cheap, and so easy
to obtain it, as the system of " soiling."

Boston, Dec. 15, 1852.

THE PRINCIPLES OF PLOUGHING.

BY SANFORD HOWARD, ESQ.

Every operation of agriculture may be said to involve cer-
tain principles, a knowledge of which is essential, more or less,
to the success of the farmer. It is proposed to consider, on
this occasion, some of the principles which relate to the tillage
of the soil by that important implement, the Plough. The
remarks to be made will have special reference to the effect of
different operations on the soil, though the proper form and
construction of ploughs for different purposes, may be inci-
dentally noticed.

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 4G3

The chief object of ploughing may be deemed to be the
formation of a seed-bed ; but the particular manner of attain-
ing this object must depend on the nature of the soil, and the
crop to be cultivated. Hence, to facilitate an understanding
of the dili'erent branches of the subject, it will be expedient to
consider it under separate heads.

1. Stiff, or Clay Soils. A general principle applicable to
cultivation, is contained in the maxi«i, " Make heavy land
lighter, and light land heavier." This may, in fact, be called
one of the cardinal rules of farming, because either of the
extremes of heaviness, or lightness of soil, is unfavorable to
the production of crops. The principal aim then, in the tillage
of stiff or heavy soil, should be to make it lighter and more
friable.

But the question is naturally suggested in the outset: —
"Why should heavy soil be made lighter ? For several reasons.
In the first place, the mechanical relations of such soil are
naturally ufavorable to the growth of most crops ; the heavi-
ness and compactness prevent the proper extension of the roots
of plants, compress them within narrow limits, and of course
restrict them to a small supply of food. In the next place,
there is a tendency in clay soils to render inert the vegetable
nutrition which they contain. It is a common expression,
that such soils " hold " manures. They do hold them, — hold
them in some instances too closely, — that is, the manures are
locked up by some principle which prevents their being fed on
by plants. It has been proved by experiments, that clay, or
earth in which it is a prominent ingredient, has a strong af-
finity for certain properties of manures, as ammonia, potash,
soda, &c. The experiments alluded to, consisted in mixing
liquid manures, as urine, with various parcels of sand, ordinary
loam, and clay. The coloring matter and the odor were ab-
stracted from the manures in proportion to the amount of clay
contained in the earth. Similar experiments have been tried
with night-soil, and with other substances, which in several
instances emitted pungent ammoniacal odors. After a thor-
ough mixture with aluminous or clayey soil, no smell could
be detected. The sandy soil, or that destitute of clay, on the
other hand, permitted the free escape of the gases, as proved

464 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

by the presence of disagreeable odors, and by the liquids
retaining their coloring matter. The interesting details in
regard to these experiments will be found ill the various
communications of Messrs. Thompson, Way, Lawes, and
Gilbert, in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society.

These results agree precisely with common observation, and
the existence of a strong affinity in clayey soils for the ele-
ments of manures, cannot be doubted, although the precise
nati\re of this affinity may not be fully known.

There is another well known property in clays, which, when
properly considered, serves to explain their tendency to inert-
ness, and teach the great fact on which we started, that they
should be made lighter, and more exposed to atmospheric
action. The binding- nature of such soils can hardly have
escaped the observation of every farmer. We see, for example,
that if clay, while in a moist state, is cut from its bed in
pieces, there is a tendency in the particles which form these
pieces to cohere ; the particles attract each other, and as the
moisture evaporates they combine firmly together. The firm-
ness with which they thus unite, and the degree to which the
air is excluded, depends much on the size of the lamps or
pieces. If they are a foot square, they bind together and
remain more or less in these dimensions, and the air acts on
but a comparatively small part ; but if they are only an inch
square, the strength of cohesion is proportionately less, and the
exposure to the air proportionately more ; consequently the
finer division is more favorable to friability.

But the question may be asked — What has this to do with
the point — why is this exposure to the air necessary ? It has
been already shown that the elements of vegetable nutrition
in clayey soils are latent, not sufficiently soluble. Now the
great dissolving or decomposing agent of nature is oxygen^
one of the elements of the atmosphere. 'One object, therefore,
in exposing clayey soils to the air, is, that the oxygen may
bring the food of plants into a soluble state, available to
plants.

But besides the development of soluble food, another impor-
tant effect is produced by the aeration of clayey soils. It is a
common expression that clays are " cold," and that they require
to be " warmed up," to bear crops. It is so in fact, and hence

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 465

one of the changes which it is desired to produce in such soils,
is a higher temperature. Every farmer knows that his crops
require a certain degree of warmth. Now it is a known fact
that the absorption of oxygen produces heat. Thus the decay
of vegetable and animal bodies has been properly called a slow
combustion. The heat is, of course, sensible in proportion to
the rapidity of the combustion, but the amount evolved in the
process is the same, whether the combustion is slow or quick.
It has been already remarked, that clayey soils contain more
or less carbonaceous or organic matter, and the union with
oxygen which is effected by exposure to the air, actually im-
parts warmth to the soil, and this of itself, in many instances,
may do much towards the perfection and yield of crops.

Upon these principles rest the advantages of thorough fal-
lowing, for stiff soils. The frequent workings produce that
aeration, or absorption of oxygen which is so important in
effecting the necessary decompositions, and bringing the soil
to a state which enables plants to derive from it full support.
But on soils destitute of clay, as flinty or sandy soils, these
beneficial results do not ensue from the same operation, be-
cause they are deficient in the elements — alkalies and organic
matter — which are not created by the process, but only made
soluble, in the former case. It is true that the necessity for
naked or open fallows on clays, has been, in some respects,
done away, by the cultivation of crops which tend to keep the
soil open — as the various root crops, peas and clover — but the
effect in both cases is similar, viz. : the improved friability of
the soil.

The particular condition, then, of the seed-bed which we
wish to produce on stiff or clayey soils, is one of comparative
lightness and friability. Hence that mode of ploughing such
soils which effects the most thorough breaking and exposure
to the air, other cncumstances being equal, would be most
advantageous. It is proper to remark, however, that the par-
ticular kind of plough, as to shape and action, depends on
whether or not the land has a coating of vegetation to be
turned under. If it has no vegetation on its surface, the most
complete crumbling and mixture of its particles would best
coincide with the main principles hereinbefore laid down, and
to effect this a plough which in its breast and mould-board
59

466 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

should present a considerable angle to the farrow slice, causing
it to rise somewhat suddenly, would be most suitable. But
when the land to be ploughed is in sward, or is covered with
weeds, an important object is to destroy this vegetation. This
is desired, both that it may not interfere with the crop to be
put on the land, and also that the crop may be benefited by
the decomposition of the former growth. Having in view,
therefore, the burying of the vegetation, it will be necessary to
modify the form of the plough from that adapted to the former
case, to accomplish this object in the best manner. If we were
to adopt the same abruptness of breast and mould-board as
was recommended where there was no vegetation on the sur-
face, the furrow-slice would be liable to be so much broken
that the sod would not be properly subverted, and the decom-
position of the vegetation would not be effectual ; the plants
which it was wished to destroy might be left in a growing
state, instead of being put out of the way and made to feed
the desired crop. But the grand aim in the performance of the
work would still be to effect the most thorough breaking of
the soil, which is compatible with the proper disposal and
decomposition of the sod or surface vegetation.

Attention to the two requisites just mentioned, — the pulver-
ization of the soil, and the decomposition of the surface vege-
tation, is of very great importance on stiff soils, and there is a
very wide difference in the operation of different ploughs, as
regards those requisites. The following is a case illustrating
this : —

A farmer (Mr. Kirtland) near Albany, N. Y., in 1849, plough-
ed a piece of rather stiff loam lying in grass. The soil was of
such uniform quality that no particular difference could be dis-
covered in the whole piece. It was ploughed seven inches
deep. Several kinds of ploughs, — perhaps eight or nine dif-
ferent patterns, — were used in the work. Stakes were put up,
or other means used, to mark the work of the different ploughs.
All the land was treated alike. A great difference in the
friableness of the soil was seen as soon as the ploughing was
done, — some of the ploughs having left the furrow-slice loose
and open ; others having turned the soil without scarcely
changing its texture, and others, again, even compressing the
soil still closer together in the operation. A great difference,

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 467

also, was early discovered in the growth of grass between the
furrows. Where one of the ploughs was used, scarcely a spire
of grass started, and the whole sod soon rotted ; but where the
others were used, the grass sprung up and grew with such
luxuriance, that by the time the corn was large enough to
weed, the interstices of the furrows presented the appearance,
in most instances, of young grain growing in drills. These
differences in the condition of the soil and the growth of grass,
of course, caused a corresponding difference in the labor of cul-
tivation, and in the growth and yield of the crop. The supe-
rior growth of the corn, from the first start to the harvest, marked
the operation of one plough, to a ftirrow ; the ease of cultiva-
tion corresponded to the growth of the crop, and even when
the land was ploughed the next year, the same difference was
plain in reference to the decomposition of the sod, and the
crop of oats which succeeded, showed a greater yield on the
same lot.*

In ploughing stiff soil, the object of dividing it and exposing
it to the air, can be best accomplished by a narrow furrow-
slice. Such a slice, from its less weight, falls over and lies
more lightly, and at the same time cuts the soil into smaller
divisions and exposes more surface. Some have supposed that
it was quite as well to turn large or wide furrows, and attei.i^^t
to produce the requisite tilth afterwards with the harrow or
some similar implement. But the object is nearly impractica-
ble. If we attempt to work the furrows with a tool which will
penetrate through them, — as the cultivator or grubber, — the
vegetation will be brought more or less to the surface ; if the
harrow is used, it only lightens an inch or two of the surface,
while at the same time it packs more closely the under por-
tion. Road-makers know that the harrow is one of the best
implements they can use for solidifying the earth.

The pulverization of the soil and the destruction of the vege-
tation, does not, as some persons suppose, depend greatly on
either the flatness or angularity of the furrow-slices. Some
ploughs turn the slice flat, and yet much grass starts in the in-
terstices ; others, as the most approved Scotch ploughs, give
the corner of the furrow-slice what is called a " high set," but

* It may be proper to say, as an inquiry will naturally arise, that the lot alluded to
was ploughed with Prouty & Mears's 5^ plough.

468 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

the soil is left in so friable a state that the slightest brush of a
harrow, or even a shower of rain, carries the earth into the in-
terstices of the furrows and stops the gi'owth of grass.

As to the depth of furrows, no specific rule can be laid down,
and practice on this point must be governed by the nature of
the soil and subsoil, modified, in some instances, by the crop
to be cultivated, and the kind and quantity of manure to be
applied. As a general fact, it may be said that stiff soils re-
quire to be ploughed more deeply than light soils. The for-
mer often contain the elements which nourish crops to a great
depth, and from their nature (as before described) require
deeper and more thorough ioosening. It is doubtful whether
practice has yet established any particular depth as most pro-
per, even for stiff soils ; but perhaps there has been a nearer
approach to seven inches as a standard, than to any other
depth. There are peculiar situations where a greater depth is
desirable, — as for alluvial or sedimentary soils. There are
many other cases where a loosening of the earth is advisable
to a greater depth than seven inches ; but, except in the cases
just specified, the question is, — ^would it be better to effect this
loosening by ploughing in the ordinary way, or with the sub-
soil plough ? This point will be more particularly considered
under the heads of trench ploughing and subsoil ploughing.

2. Light, or Sandy Soil. The properties and action of this
kind of soil, may be said to be opposite, in some important
respects, to those of stift" soil. Sands and gravels, being desti-
tute of clay, do not "hold" manures; their porosity causes
them to be strongly acted on by the air, and their organic mat-
ter is quickly decomposed and dissipated. Soils abounding in
clay are too little acted on by the air ; those which contain no
clay are acted upon too much. These facts at once teach that
different modes of tillage are required in these cases. In sandy
soils we must guard against this too strong atmospheric ac-
tion, because it dissolves out manures too rapidly, and' carries
them off by evaporation and filtration before they can be ab-
sorbed by plants. Hence, fallowing, or repeated ploughing, so
useful in developing the vegetable nutriment which lies latent
in clay, would be decidedly injurious in sandy and gravelly
soils. The remai-ks of Dr. Lyon Playfair, of London, who is

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 469

well known as a writer on the applications of chemistry to
agriculture, are worthy special attention iu this connection.
He says, — " Fallow is only a legitimate operation of farming,
when the soil, as generally is the case in clay, contains a prac-
tically inexhaustible amount of alkaline silicates. In poor soils,
the process must be one of rapid impoverishment ; and unless
the ingi'cdients thus removed from the soil be fully restored by
manure, the operation of fallow can only be characterized as
an exhaustion of the capital of the land, and not as the use of
interest."

Having in view, therefore, the principles alluded to, we
should strive to give to sandy soilmore firmness and solidity,
rather than more looseness. Instead of aiming to produce the
greatest amount of pulverization, we should try to disturb the
particles of the soil as little as practicable, or even to make them
more compact in ploughing. The complete inversion of the
furrow-slice, so that it shall lie flat, the edges closely fitting in,
is here important, because it offers less exposure to the air.

A shallow furrow, too, is preferable to a deep one, except for
root crops, and particular cases where a large quantity of ma-
nure is to be applied. . Shallow ploughing for this kind of soil
best accords, also, with the principles before laid down as a
general guide, and practical experience corresponds to the prin-
ciples. There is very little natural fertility in soils of this de-
scription ; all their richness is near the surface, and has been
formed either by the slow accumulation and decay of indige-
nous vegetation, or by the artificial application of manure. It
is obvious that the advantages in favor of deep ploughing, as
before described, do not apply here. On the contrary, the deep
furrow is not only objectionable by disturbing the tolerable
compactness which, especially for the wheat crop, it is desira-
ble to preserve, but it would bury all the good soil too low for
the crop to derive the full benefit of its elements, and would
bring to the surface in its stead, the inert, sterile earth, which
is incapable of nourishing plants tintil made fertile by manure.

One of the most sensible English agricultural writers, M. M.
Milburn, has made the following just observations on this sub-
ject. After showing that deep ploughing is highly beneficial
on deep soils, he says, — " But on poorer and thinner soils this
process would be unavailing. The subsoil below is poorer

470 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

than the soil above ; to deepen here would be only to add to
the previous poverty, and hence the cultivator must hit upon
some other mode of restoring fertility than mere deep cultiva-
tion. Nay, we have seen the mere deep ploughing of ordinary
land operate against immediate productiveness, and have, for
a time, exactly the opposite tendency."

In the most successful improvement of sandy or thin soils
in this country, the depth of ploughing for ordinary field crops
has seldom exceeded five inches, perhaps never exceeded six
inches. On similar soils in England, the depth has generally
been less. Mr Colman, in his European Agriculture, states the
average depth of English ploughing, as five inches ; but adds,
— " Three of the most eminent practical farmers with whom I
am acquainted here, plough not more than three inches ; but
the surface mould in these cases is very thin, and the under
stratum is a cold, clammy chalk." He refers to one very suc-
cessful farmer, who cultivates " a light, poor, thin, moory soil,
with a subsoil of either blue or white clay, peat, or gravel,"
who, instead of breaking up his sward with the common plough,
cuts it up with the breast or paring plough, and in a six years'
rotation, it is ploughed " four times by men and three times
with a single horse plough," the latter not going to the depth
of more than three inches. He says, another farmer in the same
neighborhood states that the use of the common plough would
not leave the ground sufficiently firm for wheat. He refers also
to Mr. Pusey, who occupies similar land, and who says, — "I
never plough it deeply, but I repent of so doing," and adds,
that he is getting more and more into the practice of using the
breast plough instead of the horse plough ; and, in conclusion,
he (Mr. Pusey) says, — " Without recommending shallow cul-
tivation in districts where deep ploughing has been hitherto
practised, I would merely warn beginners against plunging
recklessly into the subsoil."

Mr. Colman refers, also, to the practice which prevails in
England, of compressing light soils for the growth of wheat,
by the use of the roller and by the tread of animals, (some-
times by human feet,) but especially by sheep. In the culti-
vation of wheat and other grains in this country, a similar
course has been found advantageous. The sandy soils in On-
tario County, N. Y., and those near Albany, may be referred to

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 471

as examples. By proper compression of the soil and judicious
manuring, it has been found practicable to raise good wheat
on soils of so light a character that they were formerly thought
not adapted to this crop.

It has been before remarked, in regard to giving the requisite
solidity to too light soils, that the harrow is used by road ma-
kers for consolidating the earth. Any one can be satisfied, by
an experiment, that it produces this effect. A friend of the
writer, who has paid much attention to this matter, explains
the consolidating effect on the principle of atmospheric pres-
sure,— the passage of the harrow-teeth through the soil causing
a partial vacuum, which occasions a forcible rush of the air.

But some one may still be inclined to ask, — Why should it
be necessary to take so much pains to compress sandy soils,
for the production of wheat, when equally as great pains are
recommended for making stiff soils lighter ? The general rea-
soning before given, may be deemed a sufficient answer; but,
it may be further said, in explanation of the opposite practices,
that a particular state of the soil, as to lightness or solidity, is
required, and that the pressure given in the one case, or the
lightness attained in the other, only brings the diflerent kinds
of soil to the proper degree of consistence.

We have now considered the two main divisions of our sub-
ject,— the ploughing of stiff and of light soils. To illustrate
the principles involved, it was necessary to present the opposite
points in a distinct form. In regard to the intermediate de-
scriptions of soils, it is obvious that the mode of tillage should
correspond to their character, in proportion as they approxi-
mate to either of the two extremes of lightness or heaviness.

3. Trench Ploughing. This is neither more nor less than
deep ploughing. The operation merely buries the surface soil
and brings up the subsoil in its place. The principles which
have been adverted to, in considering the preceding parts of
our subject, point pretty clearly to the circumstances under
which trench ploughing should be practised. They show that
it is where the soil is rich to a greater depth than is reached
by the ordinary mode of ploughing, — or, to speak more defi-
nitely, where the substratum is richer than the surface, — that
this mode would be attended with advantage. Such soils are

472 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

not common, but are found in the form of alluvial deposits,
and sometimes in districts of "secondary" formation. When
the surface, in such cases, becomes exhausted by cropping, the
bringing up of the subsoil renews the fertility.

The character of the subsoil can readily be ascertained by
digging up a portion of it, and after exposing it to the frost
and air for a season, planting in it various crops. Chemical
analysis would show its particular qualities, and in connection
with a comparison with other soils whose character had been
ascertained by trial of crops, w^ould afford a useful guide.

The "Michigan Sod and Subsoil" plough is well adapted
to trench or deep ploughing. It has two ploughs (or the
bodies of two) set in one beam and working in the same line.
The forward plough cuts and turns over two or three inches of
the surface, and the hinder one follows in the same furrow,
bringing up the lower earth and turning it completely over
that turned by the forward implement. It can be made to
work to the depth of a foot or more. It is obvious that in this
operation it effects twice as much division of the soil as the
ordinary plough, and where the soil is of a heavy and tenacious
character, this is of great importance. From this peculiarity,
a plough of this kind may likewise be used to great advantage,
and is probably superior to any other, for all soils which are
required to be ploughed to a greater depth than seven inches.

4. Subsoil Ploughing. This differs from trench ploughing
by simply loosening and breaking the substratum, without
reversing the former relations of the soil and subsoil. As yet,
it has hardly been tried in this country sufficiently to enable
us to specify its particular advantages from actual results. Its
effects in England have been very beneficial in connection with
drainage, on stifi" soils, and so far as ascertained, its effects are
the same here. The breaking up of the subsoil favors the de-
scent of the water to the drains. When the water remains
long in the soil, in undue quantity, it runs the particles to-
gether and packs them in solid mass. Hence it has been
found necessary to carry away the water before it can accu-
mulate in sufficient quantities to produce this result. By
means of drains, and a thorough opening of the soil and sub-
soil, this is accomplished.

N'ORFOLK SOCIETY. 473

There are other advantages of subsoil ploughing. In ferru-
ginous soils, a hard pan, occasioned by a deposit of iron, is
often found so near the surface as to be injurious to crops. If
the soil is sufficiently drained and the hard pan is properly
broken up by the subsoil plough, the rain water, in connection
with the air, will dissolve out the substances which were inju-
rious to vegetation, and give to the roots of plants a wider
range for food.

The advantages of subsoil ploughing on tenacious soils,
without underdraining, is at least but temporary. Where
there is considerable descent to the furface it has been found,
in some instances, to have, for a while, the effect of draining
the soil to some extent ; but where there is not much declivity,
the water, from being confined, soon packs the earth, even
more closely than it was before, so that the ultimate result is
rather injurious than otherwise.

And here it is proper to remark, that the effects of subsoiling,
on tenacious soils, even those which have been drained, depend
much on the state of the ground, as to moisture, at the time
the work is done. Thus, if the subsoil is charged with water,
the subsoil plough produces no pulverization, but rather packs
the earth more closely, by the pressure it causes in passing
through ; but if the subsoil is dry, or comparatively so, the
implement thoroughly breaks it in pieces, and it remains in
this open condition, allowing the water to pass freely through
to the drains below.

Subsoil ploughing has, in some instances, had a favorable
effect in enabling crops to withstand drought, as ascertained
by using the implement in alternate breadths through fields.
But further and more particular experiments are required to
prove its effects with certainty, on different descriptions of soil,
and for different crops.

474 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

BASKET WILLOW

BY JOHN FLEMING, JR., ESQ.

This subject has, of late, occupied the minds of a great part
of the farming population of this country. A number of arti-
cles have, at different times, been written on the subject, and,
without doubt, the publishing of them has been of service, by
awakening an interest in the minds of our agricultural and
horticultural friends respecting the practicability of cultivating
with profit, the plant called basket willow. These articles
argued, however, in many respects, a want of information and
a lack of experience on the part of their writers, with regard to
the subject. I do not intend by this remark to find fault with
the motives of those who have written them, nor would I
give the impression that these persons have no knowledge or
experience respecting the culture of willow. And yet, I am
frank to say, that the brevity of their articles, the exaggerated
statements they make of the profits realized, and the wrong
impression conveyed to the mind of the farmer, respecting the
kind of land on which willow can be cultivated, are likely to
produce serious results, by which many speculators may suffer
loss, and the farmer generally be led to lose all interest in the
cultivation of a plant that can be grown to perfection, and
with profit, by any one who has the right information respect-
ing the following particulars, namely : — the climate and soil
in which willow will grow to perfection ; the right kind of
plants, and the proper manner and time in which they should
be planted ; the culture they afterwards need in different
kinds of soil ; the best manner of harvesting them, and how
to prepare them for the market. All this must be understood
in order to the profitable cultivation of the basket willow.

To notice all these particulars in the narrow compa'ss of an
essay, is impossible. For, to attempt to give them even a
passing notice, would expose the present writer to the same
kind of criticism as that he has in kindness bestowed on the
writings of others. I will therefore refer the reader for full
information on each of those particulars, to a Treatise on the

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 475

Culture and Harvesting of Basket Willow, which is now
about to be published by the author of this essay. And in
this essay, I shall attempt only to say what is necessary about
the practicability of cultivating basket willow in this country?
and the encouragement they have who will undertake to culti-
vate and harvest it according to the rules laid down in the
Treatise referred to.

From what has been said by lecturers and writers on the
subject, many persons have been led to believe that all low,
wet lands, are suitable for the cultivation of willow. This is
a mistake. By such wrong views, many have been led to
plant willow on land that was not suited for the purpose, and
have lost all the labor and money expended in the experiment.
Others have failed to make the cultivation of the plant profita-
ble, by following the views of those who imagine that willow
of any kind can be worked up into ware. Of this last class,
many have asked me to buy their willow, who were greatly
disappointed to hear that I could make no profitable use of it.
Of the other class, I know of one instance where all the time
and money were lost which had been expended in planting
twenty acres.

The natural soil for willow is not sand, gravel, clay, nor
peat. Willow will grow in any of these soils for a time, but
not to perfection, nor to profit. If willow be planted in clay,
the plantation will not be healthy, nor will it ever be of that
quality which is necessary for basket making. In some in-
stances the plant will look promising for a few years, but
before the cultivator has half realized a full reward for his
labors, it will become diseased, and stunted, and covered with
yellow rings. If it be planted in blue clay, nothing can pre-
serve it alive five years ; for generally, in half that time, the
plant will be burned at the root by the action of the clay.
The same effect is produced on the willow by the black mud
that collects in stagnant water.

Willow will grow well and fair by the side of running
streams, on meadow land, and on the flats by the side of rivers,
if there be sufficient suitable soil into which its roots can
strike and by which the plant can be sustained in dry weather.
But when clay is too near the surface, the willow will become
diseased, and when the land is dry, it will die.

476 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

Some experienced willow growers like to have their planta-
tions on low, damp, (not wet) flat lands. But, perhaps, good
springy, side hill land is to be preferred ; because such land is
more healthy, both for the plant and for him that cultivates it.
When such side hill land can be had facing the south, it will
be found to produce more willow, and in greater perfection,
than can be grown on flat land of any kind.

Many suppose that the more wet the land is, the greater
and fairer will be the crop, and the greater, also, the profits it
will afford. This, too, is a mistake ; for it is not the largest
and rankest willow that will yield the greatest profit, but that
which is of moderate size, smoothest grown and most tough.
Such willow will command the greatest price in the market.
It is wrong to suppose that the extra bulk or quantity will
more than make up the deficiency in price, for there is, gener-
ally, a very full supply of such material in the market. Hence
it is, that the experienced cultivator exercises all his ingenuity
and skill to have his willow grow of the average size, father
than of a mixture of very small and very large. To secure so
desirable an end, nothing will be found of more service than a
proper selection of soil ; and good springy, side hill land, is
unquestionably the best. What is not accomplished in the
selection of the soil, must be effected by a proper selection of
the kind of plant, and by regulating the growth of the young
wood, by cutting or harvesting the yearly produce at different
and suitable seasons of the year.

The best willow, and the most profitable plantations of it,
are found where the land is well chosen, and properly prepared
by ploughing and the previous cultivation, for one or two years,
of a crop of potatoes.

Some persons may think it a strange thing to plough and
plant land as a preparation for the culture of willow. But the
day is coming when the people of these United States- will see
hundreds and thousands of acres of this plant grown on such
land, and will wonder no more than we now do at those who
prepare by ploughing, their land for corn and potatoes.

Men once thought that the grass field was a good place for
the apple tree. True, they saw that it flourished better in the
garden ; but men who were observing and wise enough to set
out good apple orchards, and keep them well ploughed, were

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 477

few in number, and they made the profit. So with the willow.
Those who cultivate it in the grassy meadow will reap some
harvest, but a very small one in comparison with that which
he will secure who cultivates good and more suitable land,
and prepares it for the plant with the plough, the harrow and
the hoe.

Before willow is planted on low wet land, trenches should
be cut in such a manner as to allow of draining off the water
in wet weather, and of retaining it when necessary to moisten
the land. No other preparation is necessary on land that can-
not be ploughed. But where the land can be ploughed, it
should be done ; and where it cannot be ploughed, the draining
should be completed before the willow is planted.

There is a great quantity of land in every State in this
Union, on which willow can be raised to perfection, and with
a certainty of large profit to the cultivator. Any one who has
suitable land on which to grow willow, and who lives near to
our large cities, or to railroads leading thither, and by which
they can send their crops to market, may, by cultivating it in
a proper manner, realize a handsome profit.

The prices of willow range from $5 to $7 per hundred
weight, for English, French, Dutch, and German ; and native
grown willow, raised from sets imported from England, sell at
$2 more per hundred weight. A willow plantation, if properly
cared for, will continue in good condition for fifteen years.
The crop taken from such a plantation, will average 2,000 lbs.
a year, of what will be fit for the market. The first year, there
will be no crop ; and the second year, it will be fit for little else
than planting. But for this purpose, enough sets may be cut
to sell for about ^100. After the two first years, the crops
will allow of being averaged at 2,000 lbs. per year, including
those of the two first years. The lowest price that can be
allowed for the willow, is, $60 for 1,000 pounds. The sum
total, therefore, of the value of the crops for fifteen years, in-
cluding the first and second years' growth for planting, will be
about $1,900. The interest of the money paid for one acre of
land, for fifteen years, may be put down at $90. The cost of
the sets, and planting them, and the interest thereon for fif-
teen years, may be put down at $150. For replacing dead
sets, and weeding the plantation, we may allow $35. For

478 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

cutting the willow and preparing it for market, we may allow
$400. In all, $675. We may express these sums in figures,
thus : —

Total value of crops for fifteen years, . . . $1,900 00
Total expenditure for fifteen years, .... 675 00

Total profit, $1,200 00

To this statement, I do not fear any contradiction. And I
am convinced that I shall thereby mislead no one, or cause
him to engage in an unprofitable speculation. In preparing
this statement, I have been governed by my own experience
and observation, and not by the sayings of other men.

For willow of good quality there is always a ready market ;
and there is good reason to believe that such a market will
continue for many years. In this country, as it was once the
case in England, ash and oak baskets are much in use. But
the time is fast approaching when willoio baskets will drive
them out of the market. In England, formerly, all light goods
were packed, for transportation, in light boxes and in mats,
and so were vegetables. Now baskets are in universal use,
except for goods that will be injured by getting wet. Willow
packing-baskets are in general use for almost every purpose
of transportation, by farmers, gardners, wholesale dealers of all
kinds, and by all classes in the community, for every possible
purpose.

In Europe willow baskets are so much in use, that the
American traveller notices the fact almost as soon as he arrives
there. To this fact, many will bear witness. In the United
States, basket making with willow is yet in its infancy. In
the year 1825, it had been barely introduced. At that time, I
believe, there was scarcely a willow worker in the city of Bos-
ton. In the year 1852, there is sent to stores in Boston at the
rate of six thousand dollars' worth of willow goods manufac-
tured by the writer's own family.

In the year 1845, the writer of these remarks commenced,
and is now connected with, the largest willow ware manufac-
tory in the United States. We purchase and work up into
ware more willow than any other person or company in these
States, and have, therefore, had an excellent opportunity to

NORFOLK SOCIETY. 479

learn what is the best willow used in the country, and what is
the prospect both for the cultivator and consumer of the article.

For more than twenty years I have been engaged in cultivat-
ing willow, in preparing it for use, and in manufacturing it
into ware. Of this time, about eight years have been devoted
to improvements in the culture and manufacture of it in
America. Previously, I lived in my native country, England.
The results of my experiments there and here, and the knowl-
edge I have of the experience of my father and my grandfather,
in the same business, for at least fifty years, I consider sufficient
to justify me in saying that I fear no contradiction to the state-
ments I have now made, nor any taunting remarks from the
importers of foreign willow.

The importer of foreign willow has said, repeatedly, that the
plant cannot be groivn here to perfection. But I can show him
the living willow, that is preferred by the best manufacturers
and the best workmen in this country, and which brings the
highest price paid in the market.

The intelligent cultivator of the soil will know how to ac-
count for the spirit of opposition to the culture of willow in
this country, that is shown by importers of foreign willow. We
must expect that business men will do all they can to secure
their own interests ; and, in doing this, they cannot always
seek the well-being of others, — that is, in a pecuniary point of
view. But, since human society is so constituted and human
affairs are so regulated as to render it necessary that every one
should be thoughtful, diligent and prudently enterprising, in
order to provide for their own wants and necessities, the farmer
must be alive to his advantages and his interests, if he wishes
to enjoy the happiness of a home where there is peace and
plenty.

In the United States, the people have many advantages and
many privileges which the European looks for, but, as yet, can-
not obtain. All those advantages and privileges are enjoyed,
chiefly, as the result of the enterprising spirit and the sound
judgment of the fathers of those who now occupy our farms.
Then let the sons imitate those fathers in spirit and in the
exercise of sound judgment, and let some willow plantations
be seen on our farms. If they be properly cultivated, and cared
for, they will be an ornament to the farm ; they will prove use-

480 NORFOLK SOCIETY.

ful in giving a change in the somewhat tedious employment of
the late winter and early spring months, and will be a source
of no small profit. They will give employment to the farmer
himself, as just stated, and also to his children, in spring ; and,
beside which, capital invested in the business, will yield a bet-
ter return than any other common branch of agriculture or
horticulture of which I have any knowledge.

To excel in any profession or business, besides being correct
in theory, a man must learn, more or less slowly, how to em-
ploy his time and talents to the best possible advantage. He
will succeed in proportion as he is suited to the calling he en-
gages in, and in proportion also to the circumstances under
which he engages and continues to labor. The means of im-
provement he has within his reach must likewise be considered
as exerting some influence to lead him on to the accomplish-
ment of his purpose. Prudence and perseverance are, also,
very necessary qualifications, and without them, no one can
reasonably expect to succeed. As with professional men and
men of business, so it is with those who shall attempt to excel
in the cultivation of the willow. The best way for an inex-
perienced person to adopt, is to commence upon a small scale.
Then, if by any inadvertency he should fail in his first attempt,
the loss will not be great. If he be careful and successful, he
will then have the more confidence in making another effort on
a larger scale.

As one of those who have written on the culture of the wil-
low, I will not hold myself responsible, or consider myself
blame-worthy, if men fail to succeed in the cultivation of the
plant, unless they wiU be governed in the matter, by the direc-
tions I have given on that subject in the Treatise I am about
to publish on the Culture and Harvesting of Basket Willow.
But if any person will follow my directions, and cultivate a por-
tion of his land for the purpose of testing my views, or as a
means of employment, or as a matter of business, I shall have
no reluctance to meet him, and shall expect his favorable opin-
ion respecting the matter when he shall have given it a fair
trial.

Sherborn, Mass.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 481

PLYMOUTH COUNTY AGRICULTURAL
SOCIETY.

The annual cattle show and fair of this society were held at
Bridgewater on the 7th of October. The day was delightful,
and the concourse of people drawn together immense. The
first thing that attracted attention in the morning was the
ploughing match ; this presented, as it usually does, a lively
and exciting scene, which was witnessed by a large number of
gratified spectators. The teams, of which there were sixteen
in number, were single, consisting of one yoke of oxen each,
which were managed by the ploughmen, who, being expert and
skilful men, having well-disciplined cattle, contrived, under
obvious disadvantages, to execute their respective tasks with
expedition, and in a manner to meet the approbation of the
committee. With reference to the general character of the
exhibition, it may be remarked, that if not equal, in all re-
spects, to what has heretofore been sometimes witnessed, it
was nevertheless, very respectable in all its departments.
Among the attractive objects presented were beautiful birds
of the domestic species, and fine porkers, and promising young
steeds, and comely kine, and noble beev^es, and products of the
dairy in great force, looking cleanly, rich and tempting ; and
there were, too, evidences of female taste and skill displayed
in a great variety of fancy work, and in manufacturing, which
were highly creditable to the fair contributors.

Of fruits the display surpassed, in richness, variety, and
beauty, anything of the kind ever before offered since the
establishment of the society.

The address was delivered by Hon. J. H. W. Page, of New
Bedford, president of the Bristol County Agricultural Society.
61

482 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

Improvements.

Three entries were originally made for the pro.spective pre-
miums offered by this society. " For the most extensive forest
of any sort of trees suitable for fuel or timber, raised from the
seed, not less than a thousand trees to the acre, which shall be
in the most flourishing condition, and more than five years old
in September, 1852," (two of the competitors having with-
drawn,) we recommend the award of the first premium, of $30,
to Daniel Alden, of ]\liddleborough ; he having planted six and
a half acres, and succeeded in raising more than ten thousand
forest trees of a healthy appearance and vigorous growth, on a
soil so totally exhausted by excessive cultivation with grain
crops, without manure, that it produced little else than white
moss.

In the early settlement of the country, one of the greatest
obstacles to the cultivation of the soil was the interminable
forests, and it became necessary for our progenitors, in order to
clear the land for tillage, to cause indiscriminate '■'■ strip and
waste^^ of what we now consider one of the most valuable
products of the soil; beyond the immediate supply of their
wants for fuel and log cabins, the stately forest tree was con-
sidered an unwelcome "curaberer of the ground," and doomed
to extermination so far as the wants of an increasing population
should need the soil for cultivation.

In the selection of soils, the early pioneers generally over-
looked the most fertile, for sandy plains of easy culture, — then
rich in the decayed and decaying forest foliage ; these were
cultivated so long as they would yield remunerating crops
without the application of fertilizing manure, and then aban-
doned, and the woodman's axe laid waste another tract, which
in turn was cultivated, exhausted and abandoned.

This system of devastation and exhaustion has been con-
tinued in this county, with few and feeble attempts at repro-
duction or renovation, until our most valuable forests are nearly
exterminated, and very many barren fields left desolate and
worthless for cultivation.

The inroads thus made, together with the more recent but
not less fatal enormous draft upon our forests, for propelling
steam engines, by the increasing demand for lumber, and the

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 483

prodigal use of fuel, must soon be realized in the advanced
prices of fuel and lumber as our railroads become more numer-
ous and extensive, and our population more dense.

There are thousands of acres of barren fields in this county
that have been rendered sterile by the parsimonious policy of
miserly cultivators, that might in a few years be converted into
vigorous forests, at a trifling expense, and how much better for
the proprietors thus to appropriate them, than longer try to
encourage the poor, jaded soil, in her abortive attempts to pro-
duce vegetables and grain, aye, tlian longer pursue this suicidal
policy; better, by far, abandon them to chance, that the favor-
ing gales of heaven may waft to their bosoms some fructify-
ing seed, whiph, germinating, would in time produce a forest.

" What is your age?" was the interrogatory which an eastern
prince caused to be put by one of his attendants, to a very old
man seated by the wayside. "I'm four years old," was the
reply. "Do you intend to insult his majesty?" was the re-
joinder. "No, may it please your majesty, it is but four years
since I began to live as I ought for posterity, — since I planted
a treeT According to this definition of living for posterity,
but comparatively few of our countrymen have begun yet to
live ; for instead of planting, their study and occupation has
been to destroy trees. But every consideration of interest and
comfort admonish us to change our habits in this respect, and
to provide in time for the wants of posterity.

The planting of forests and ornamental grounds has long
been practised in Europe, particularly in Great Britain, where
it is sedulously encouraged by statesmen as well as landholders.
It has contributed much to beautify the country as well as to
improve the productiveness and profit of the soil. Some idea
of the extent to which it is carried may be formed from the
fact that the Duke of Bedford, alone, has, in seven years, planted
upon his estate no less than one thousand five hundred and
forty acres of ground with five million seven hundred and
thirty-five thousand trees, exclusive of six hundred and eighty
bushels of acorns, and other seed put in with the dibble.

The business of planting forest trees, like the culture of any
other new branch of rural economy, seems much more for-
midable and expensive in prospect, than it turns out to be in

484 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

practise. It may be managed upon every farm with trifling
expense. Seed from forest and ornamental trees may be readily
gathered at the proper season, and planted and raised with
almost as much certainty of success as any of our ordinary
crops.

Every soil is naturally adapted to the growth of particular
species of trees. This indication of nature should be con-
sulted, and trees growing naturally on similar soil in the neigh-
borhood should be selected. In the selection of forest seed
reference should always be had to the quickness of growth
and the value of product.

Respectfully submitted,

Horace Collamore.

Produce.

The soil of Plymouth County has generally been considered,
by our fortunate neighbors in more fertile counties, as a barren
waste, made up of "pond holes, gravel hills and sand banks;"
and the reports of the productions of our soil have not unfre-
quently elicited bold and stringent criticisms, intimating, in no
very courteous terms, that, by the duplicity of your commit-
tees, the crops have been exaggerated beyond all precedents in
agricultural statistics. We claim no exemption from human
fallibility, but we do claim for ourselves, our associates and
predecessors, the virtues of honest intention and incorruptible
integrity ; and we claim for the farmers of Plymouth County
a fair and honorable share of scientific skill in agricultual
affairs, conjoined to indomitable energy and persevering in-
dustry.

Although our good or evil fortune has cast our lot and given
us an inheritance on this reputed sterile soil of the " Old Col-
ony," yet in this dispensation we see no cause to distrust the
wisdom and goodness of Providence, while, in accordance with
the divine injunction, we obtain by the "sweat of the brow" a
fair share of the staff of life, with some of the luxuries and ail
the necessaries requisite to render life endurable.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 485

An editor of an agricultural journal, some years ago, said,
" It may be thought paradoxical to some that the county of
Plymouth should be agricultural. Plymouth, say they, — that
stepping-stone to sandy Cape Cod, that territory situated be-
tween two bays, and made up of pond holes, gi-avel hills and
sand banks, where every town is filled up with nail machines,
spinning jennies, anchor shops and shoe factories, — can such a
place have any pretensions to agriculture?" The same writer
adds — "Such may be the language of the prejudiced, but let
them not 'darken counsel by words without knowledge.' The
truth is, that Plymouth County is by no means behind hand in
agriculture ; it has much excellent land, and can boast of some
of the best farms and best farmers in the Commonwealth."

We have met here to-day to present our claims for this en-
viable title, and the competitors for your bounties, and candi-
dates for this honorable distinction, are neither "few nor far
between." More than one hundred and twenty claims were
this year presented for premiums on improvements and pro-
duce,— nearly twice the number that ever before entered their
claims to become recipients of your bounties. Sixteen entries
were made for the greatest crop of Indian corn on one acre.
Notwithstanding a partial failure in some of the crops in con-
sequence of the extreme drought, yet we believe that some-
thing more than a medium crop of Indian corn has been
harvested in this county the present season.

Premiums.

Calvin Leavitt, of Bridgewater, is entitled to the first pre-
mium of ^8 ; he raised, according to the measurement, 122|^
bushels on an acre.

George W. Wood, of Middleborough, is entitled to the sec-
ond premium of $6; he raised 102|| bushels.

Richard Sampson, of Middleborough, is entitled to the third
premium of $5 ; he raised 96|0- bushels.

Martin Leonard, of Bridgewater, is entitled to the fourth
premium of $4; he raised 94|^ bushels.

Philander Wood, of Bridgewater, is entitled to the fifth pre-
mium of $3 ; he raised 92|| bushels.

486 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

A gratuity of $2 is recommended to be paid to Willard
Wood, of Bridgewater ; he raised 92|| bushels.

One vol. Mass. Ploughman, each, to Horace & Virgil Ames,
of Bridgewater, and Daniel Alden, of Middleborough. One
vol. each, Boston Cultivator, to Orsamus Litteljohn, of Middle-
borough, Aretas Fobes, of Bridgewater, and Nahum Snell, of
West Bridgewater. One do. do. N. E. Farmer, to Benjamin
Hobart, of Abington, and Josiah Whitman, East Bridgewater.

Four claims were made for the best field of Indian corn on
not less than three acres.

Jonathan Copeland, of West Bridgewater, is entitled to the
premium of $15; he raised 82|| bushels per acre, on a light,
sandy soil, which he purchased a few years since for about
fifteen dollars per acre.

Aretas Fobes, Bridgewater, one vol. Mass. Ploughman.

Six competitors entered for the best field of Indian corn on
not less than two acres.

Spencer Leonard, Jr., of Bridgewater, is entitled to the pre-
mium of $10; he raised 98|| bushels per acre.

One vol. each, Boston Cultivator, to Nathan Whitman, East
Bridgewater, and Daniel Alden, Middleborough; one vol. N. E.
Farmer to William H. Adams, Bridgewater, and one vol. Mass.
Ploughman to Paul Hathaway, Middleborough.

Four entries were made for the best experiment to prove the
influence of subsoil ploughing on the corn crop.

Horace & Virgil Ames, of Bridgewater, are entitled to the
premium of $5. Difference iil favor of subsoiled part, 12|-£-
bushels per acre.

One vol. Massachusetts Ploughman to Benjamin Hobart,
Abington.

Seven entries were made for the best experiment in raising
oats, not less than fifty bushels to the acre.

We have received no returns indicating the requisite number
of bushels to entitle any person to the premium offered.

One vol. Mass. Ploughman to Aretas Fobes, Bridgewater,
and one do. each N. E. Farmer to H. &. V. Ames, Bridgewater,
and Daniel Alden, Middleborough.

Three competitors entered for the best experiment in raising
wheat.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 487

No one has returned the requisite number of bushels to
entitle them to the premium.

One vol. N. E. Farmer to H. & V. Ames, Bridgewater.

For the best experiment to prove the influence of subsoiling
on the wheat crop, two entries were made.

Benjamin Hobart, of Abington, is entitled to the premium
of $5. The difference in favor of tlie subsoiled part was 6|
bushels per acre.

H. & V. Ames, Bridgewater, one vol. Boston Cultivator.

Spencer Leonard, Jr., Bridgewater, is entitled to the premium
of $8, for the best experiment in raising barley. He raised
32^ bushels on one acre and six rods.

Timothy French, Kingston, is entitled to the premium of
$6, for the greatest quantity of white beans raised on half an
acre. He raised 10| bushels on eighty-two rods of land.

There were ten entries for the best crop of ruta-baga, or
French turnips, on quarter of an acre.

Lewis McLauthlin, of Pembroke, is entitled to the first pre-
mium of $5. He raised 180 bushels, equal to 720 bushels
per acre.

One vol. each, Mass. Ploughman, to Orsamus Litteljohn,
Middleborough, and George Drew, Halifax; one vol. N. E.
Farmer to Paul Hathaway, Middleborough.

Entries were made for common turnips, but no one claims
a premium.

Benjamin Hobart, Abington, is entitled to the premium of
$5, for the greatest quantity of beets raised on quarter of an
acre. He raised 257 J'g bushels, equal to 1,028 1| bushels per
acre.

One vol. Boston Cultivator to Paul Hathaway, Middleboro'.

Seth Sprague, Duxbury, is entitled to the first premium of
^10, for the greatest quantity of carrots raised on quarter of an
acre, — 187^8g bushels, equal to 748|| bushels per acre.

Jonathan Copeland, West Bridgewater, is entitled to the
second premium of $5. He raised a fraction less than 152
bushels, or equal to 607 g^g bushels per acre.

One vol. N. E. Farmer to Benjamin Hobart, Abington.

Abiel Bassett, Bridgewater, is entitled to the premium of
|5, for the greatest quantity of onions raised on quarter of an
acre. He raised 170 bushels, equal to 680 bushel? per acre.

488 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

Aretas Fobes, one vol. N. E, Farmer.

Austin J. Roberts, Middleborough, is entitled to the first
premium of $5, for the greatest quantity of winter squashes
on quarter of an acre. He raised 4,942 pounds on one-quarter
of an acre, equal to 2 tons 942 pounds, or 9 tons 1,768 pounds
per acre.

Nathan Whitman, East Bridgewater, second premium of
$3. He raised 4,523 pounds.

"We recommend that a gratuity of $2 be paid to Lewis
Leonard, of Bridgewater, who raised 3,142 pounds.

Premiums on Improvements.

We have ten entries for the premiums offered for the greatest
quantity of the most valuable compost manure.

Seth Sprague, Duxbury, is entitled to the first premium of
^10. He made 600 loads of 40 cubic feet.

Josiah L. Bassett, of Bridgewater, is entitled to the second
premium of ^8. He made 443 loads.

Aretas Fobes, of Bridgewater, to the third premium of $6.
He made 410 loads.

Daniel Alden, of Middleborough, the fourth premium, Col-
man's Reports. He made 369 loads.

One vol. Mass. Ploughman to Nahum Snell, West Bridge-
water; one do. N. E. Farmer to Orsamus Litteljohn, Middle-
borough ; one do. each, Boston Cultivator, to Austin J. Roberts,
Middleborough, George W. Wood, Middleborough, and Ben-
jamin Hobart, Abington.

Jonathan Copeland, West Bridgewater, is entitled to the
first premium of $10, for carting on to his sandy fields and
orchards the greatest quantity of swamp muck and peat mud.
He carted 444 loads.

The advantages derived from the cultivation of corn> for
fodder, — especially when there are indications of the failure of
the grass crop, — are not well understood and appreciated in
this county. On good soils, from six to eight tons (when
well cured) can be raised on an acre ; and on less fertile fields
the yield is far more remunerating than some of the root crops.
It can be sowed as late as July, and fed out to milch cows or
beef cattle during the drought of autumn, or cured and used

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 489

as winter fodder. It is more nutritious than most of the
cultivated grasses from the amount of saccharine matter it
contains. It leaves the ground in good condition, and as it
is not left to ripen its seed, is not considered an exhausting
crop.

"We have not unfrequently noticed, in our travels through
the county, that some of our otherwise good farmers are in
the habit of ploughing their silicious loamy lands in the fall,
under the erroneous impression that the soil is benefited by
exposure to the frosts of winter. On a soil of an opposite
character, of an argillaceous texture where clay predominates,
this mode of husbandry is beneficial. On these, the frosts of
winter have a tendency to render the soil more permeable and
less compact ; on the other hand, a sandy soil will retain its
adhesiveness and be more retentive of moisture if ploughing
is omitted till the season for planting arrives.

A great diversity of opinion has always existed in relation
to the application of manure. The advocates and opponents
of ploughing under have generally contended in the dark ;
they have each had their experiences ; the one on a warm
silicious soil, the other on a cold, tenacious or clayey soil ; and
while the former have reaped the benefit from turning under,
the latter may have had cause to deprecate the practice.

On our warm sandy soils, we have for many years been in
the habit of ploughing in our manure for the corn crop, and
whenever we have adopted the other method we have invaria-
bly had cause to regret it. From several experiments, made
with considerable accuracy, we find that where the manure is
turned under, the soil retains its fertility much longer; on such
soils we think there is much more danger from evaporation
than from infiltration.

Perhaps the time has not arrived for the introduction and
general use of the phosphates in this county. It is asserted,
by many scientific writers, and practical agriculturists, that
the super-phosphates of lime, or their components, do not exist
^^n sufficient quantities in our old cultivated fields for the
perfect development of plants ; that the manures ordinarily
applied do not contain a sufficiency of these salts for the sus-
tenance of crops, and an analysis of these soil& demonstrates
their absence.

490 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

Professor Mapes says : — " During the last year we have ex-
amined more than one hundred soils, and no one case has
occurred where this amendment was not needed." He further
says, "that five hundred pounds of this super-phosphate of
lime, (at a cost of about $25,) has been found, by frequent
experiments, to be fully equal in value to twenty cords of well
rotted stable manure, whilst its cost is not so great as the cart-
ing of that eommodity two miles."

This amendment is engaging the attention^ of agriculturists
both in Europe and America ; and in the State of New York
its effects are represented as wonderful, applied in moderate
quantities; their wheat crops having been more than doubled.
All soils are benefited by its application, but on sandy soils it
is said to be more permanently valuable than other manures^
from the fact that it is not volatile, and remains in the soil
until consumed by the plants. Experiments on a small scale
might teijt its value on our soils ; caution, however, is neces-
sary in the adoption of any new theory, from hovrever high a
Bource it may emanate.

We have the (lawn of a brighter day in the establishment
of the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture. Much practical
info-'*niation will be diffused and sent broadcast through the
Commonwealth. Under its auspices it will be impossible that
ao"ricultural science shall remain stationary ; even onr " gravel
hills and sand banks " are yet destined to take no secondary
position among the more favored counties.

The cause of agriculture is onward. The late lamented
Judge Buel said : — " A German, by means of study, and ob-
servation, aided by a long course of practical experience, in
husbandry, lias been able to ascertain the degree of exhaustion
in fertility which soils ordinarily undergo from the growth of
common grain crops, and how much the fertility is increased
by a given quantity of manure and by pasture, — and thus
teaching how to maintain or increase the fertility of the soil,
and consequently its products and profits from the resources
of the farm."

In addition to what is now contemplated by said Board,
competent professors should be employed to make analyses of
soils, in order to ascertain what elements have been exhausted
by excessive cultivation, and prescribe the fertilizing agents

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 491

requisite for their permanent improvement ; and as all soils are
not benefited alike by barn manures, we should call science to
our aid in order to discover the missing ingredients necessary
to constitute a fertile soil.

In retiring from the office which I have held for three years,
I would tender to the trustees and members of this association
my grateful thanks for their uniform kindness and courtesy.
The interest I feel for the permanence and success of your
society will suffer no diminution in retirement from a more
active participation in its duties and labors.

Respectfully submitted,

Horace Collamore.

Daniel Alden's Statement.

FOREST TREES.

The tract of land planted to forest trees, which I entered for
the society's premium, payable in 1852, was a barren sandy
plain, remote from any habitation, and the memory of man
extends not back to the time when it was first reclaimed for
the cultivation of Indian corn. It was exhausted many years
ago by a succession of grain crops with little or no manure;
in 1835 the last crop of corn was raised. In the fall of 1836
I planted about two acres with white pine seed, and in March,
1837, the remainder of the lot, in all six and a half acres.

In the fall of 1839, I planted three bushels of white oak
acorns, with very poor success, as the most of them failed to
vegetate. In November, 1840, I sowed white birch seed on
the whole lot, with good success. In March, 1841 and 1844,
I planted the then existing vacancies with white pine. In
March, 1845, I planted one and a half bushels of walnuts. In
April, 1846, I planted one bushel of walnuts, which have come
up well, but are of slow growth. In June, 1849, I transplanted
about 300 white pines, the most of which lived and are doing
well, but are not so vigorous as those planted in April. In
April, 1850, I again planted all the then existing vacancies
with white pines, which have generally vegetated and are
doing well. On this lot of six and a half acres, I have now
growing, something more than ten thousand trees, of various

492 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

kinds, and some of them apparently nearly ripe for the axe ;
the whole forming a very handsome young wood lot, intrin-
sically worth nearly as many dollars, at this moment, as it was
worth cents, before the forest trees were planted.

From my experience in raising white pines, I can confidently
recommend spring in preference to fall for planting. Those
planted in the fall vegetate too early and are killed by the late
frost of spring. I would suggest that the best season for
planting the pine seed is from the 20th of March to the 1st of
April ; and the proper time for collecting the seed is from the
25th of August to the 10th of September ; and before the burrs
open, they should be spread on a tight scaffold, and when per-
fectly dry, can be threshed with a flail without injuring the
seed. The seed of forest trees wUl only germinate once in
three years.

Seth Sprague's Statement.

COMPOST MANURE.

Being a competitor for the greatest quantity of manure, I
take the liberty to state that I have kept the past year twenty
head of cattle, four horses and six hogs. My barn, 40 by 32
feet, has a cellar under the whole, with a shed 10 feet wide,
to secure all the green manure thrown out, from the sun and
rain. 40 by 20 feet of this cellar is fitted for the preservation
of roots, of which I have now fifteen hundred bushels of tur-
nips, beets and carrots. I have a peat swamp on one end of
my farm, from which I take from one to two hundred loads
of mud in the autumn. This lies as dropped from the cart
through the winter. As soon after our barnyard is cleared
in the spring, as our time will permit, we haul this into it,
covering it about twelve inches deep, to which we add other
material, litter, &c., as opportunity and o)3casion requires. My
whole stock occupy it in autumn, winter and spring, and most
of them at night in summer. A shed ninety feet long, secures
one side of the yard, the other parts are screened by buildings
and a high board fence. The horse manure is dropped into a
cellar under the stable, where hogs are kept, having a yard
about thirty feet square.

My farm is mostly a sandy, hungry soil, producing a small

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 493

quantity of short, dry feed. I have about twelve acres of
reclaimed swamp, where I cut about twenty tons of English
hay. My practice is to carry my compost from my barnyard,
consisting mostly of swamp mud, on to my cultivated sandy
soil, and as far as I can, to preserve the green manure of the
cattle and horses, and compost it, as soon as planting is over,
with sandy soil, gravel, &c., and when well prepared, put it on
my English peat meadow. The material furnished the hogs
is various. We scrape everything we can, of a vegetable
nature, that they can reduce to powder, and that will ultimately
decay, and supply them from time to time.

Twenty loads of good compost may be made from the
house, with a family of half a dozen persons, — from the sink
drain, slops from the chambers, the necessary, &c., — if proper
preparations are made, and material thrown together as oc-
casion requires. I am satisfied that every householder, who
cultivates his land, from his small garden to his two hundred-
acre farm, can double the quantity of manure usually made,
in the course we have pursued in past years. I endeavor to
top-dress my low lands, every third or fourth year, with from
twenty to forty loads of good compost, which we endeavor to
get on as early in Octoljer as our other work will allow. I
have made the past year six hundred loads compost manure,
of good quality, not made for show but for use. The loads
carried on to my low ground this autumn not being full loads,
we have allowed one hundred loads to be certain of giving full
forty entire cubic feet to the load, and still have a quantity to
spare on hand.

Josiah L. Bassett''s Statement.

I have made and measured four hundred and forty-three
loads of manure the past year, (forty cubic feet to the load.)
It was made in the following manner : — One hundred and
seven loads were composed of soil, muck, and manure thrown
from the barn during the winter ; eight loads of peat ashes and
muck ; thirty loads were taken from under an old barn,'with
scrapings from other out-buildings ; nine loads were made of
soil and muck where it received the wash of two sinks ; two
hundred and eighty-nine loads were made in a yard connected
with a barn cellar, where I yarded my cattle and sheep through

494 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

the winter — being fourteen head of cattle and thirty-three sheep
— and where I stabled one horse through the year, and one
three months. I have yarded, through the summer, on an aver-
age, sixteen head of cattle, and had, on an average, four hogs.

Aretas Fobes's Statement.

I have collected the materials of which I made compost ma-
nure, to the amount of four hundred and ten loads of forty
cubic feet each, during the last year. It is composed of muck,
soil, scrapings from the chip-yard and sink-drain, which were
composted in my barn cellars and yards with the manure from
the stables, where are kept horses and cattle.

Calvin Leavitt^s Statement.

INDIAN CORN.

Having entered my name as a competitor for the premium
for the greatest crop of Indian corn on an acre, I will give you
a statement of the cultivation and expense of the crop. I
planted on sward ground ; spread on about nine cords of stable
manure, made the past winter; ploughed one-half, with a com-
mon sward plough, seven or eight inches deep ; the other half I
ploughed, with the Michigan plough, eleven inches deep; har-
rowed well ; furrowed three feet five inches one way, and drop-
ped the corn as near eighteen inches the other way as possible,
putting four corns in a hill ; which was done on the 525th and
26th of May. I mixed a half barrel of Mexican guano with a
barrel of plaster of Paris, and put a table-spoonful in each hill,
on two-thirds of the piece ; the other third was planted without
any in the hills. A cultivator was used between the rows, and
it was hoed twice only ; the last time about the 20th of July.
The corn planted was the Smutty White, or, more properly,
the Hill corn, as I am informed that Leonard Hill, Esq., of
East Bridgewater, produced it by a cross of the Sputhern
White with some of our Yankee corn. Expense of carting
and spreading manure, ^6 50. Ploughing and harrowing,
$3 50. Furrowing and planting, $4. Cultivating and hoeing,
the season, $11. Guano and plaster, $3. Total, $28. The
Mexican guano I used was a worthless article, as I could not

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 495

see the least beneficial effect from it, at any season of the year,
on the corn crop, or the vine or grass crop. As I tried it on
all these crops with a like result, it was a perfect failure. The
Michigan plough I think very well of, as my corn suffered least
from the drought where that was used.

George W. Wood's Statement.

The acre of land which produced the corn entered by me for
premium is a clayey loam. In 1851 I cut about a ton of
English hay from it. Ploughed it May 12th, last, and drew
on thirty loads of compost manure from hogyard and some
from barn; that I spread, then cultivated and harrowed till I
made the soil very fine. Planted the corn 20th and 21st of
May ; planted in rows three feet four-twelfths one way, and
fifteen to twenty inches the other way, putting three or four
corns in a hill, first dropping twenty loads of compost manure
in the hills. The manure put in the hills was made from barn-
yard composted soil and barn manure, composted in 1851, and
shovelled over till it was quite fine ; estimated forty cubic feet
to the load.

Soon after the corn came up, ploughed two furrows in each
row, turning the furrow from the corn : ran the cultivator twice
between each row before hoeing first time. I hoed the corn
June 14th, and 26th : ran the cultivator once a week till the
corn was too large. July 31, went over and cut up the weeds
with the hoe ; it kept very clean the rest part of the season.
Cut the most of the stalks after they were very ripe. October
18, the supervisor came and selected two square rods in differ-
ent parts of the field ; they averaged 54| bushels to the rod ;
that would make 102|| bushels to the acre. Harvested the
corn from the 21st to 27th of October. I think I have got 100
bushels of corn from the acre beside what the birds destroyed.

The expense of cultivating was as follows: — Ploughing
$2 50. Cultivating and harrowing, $2. Planting, $5 50.
Carting and spreading thirty loads of manure, $4. Ploughino-
and cultivating, at different times, ^2. Hoeing twice $5.
Cutting up weeds, 75 cts. Seed corn, 50 cts. The seed corn
I bought of Willard Wood, selected from the best ears at har-
vest time. Making the whole expense for cultivating, |22 25,

496 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

I make no charge for harvesting, for I think the fodder will
more than pay the labor of harvesting. Tlie ralue of the ma-
nure exhausted by the corn crop, each one must judge for him-
self; and also the interest on the worth of land.

Richard Sampson's Statement.

The acre of land entered by me for a premium on corn, is a
sandy loam. It had been mowed the five years past, and pro-
duced from a ton to a ton and half annually, and was dressed
with twenty loads of compost manure during the time it was
in grass. The land was ploughed the first week in May, seven
inches deep, with the Michigan Sod plough, and eight cords of
compost manure spread on the surface, and harrowed twice.
It was planted on the 19th of May, in rows, one way, running
north and south, three and a quarter feet apart ; the hills, in the
row, from two to two and a half feet apart, with three seeds in
the hill; but in consequence of the protracted dry weather, on
something more than one-half of the acre, not more than two-
thirds of the seed ever vegetated.

The seed was planted on the surface, without anything ap-
plied to the hill when planted. At the time of weeding, there
was a small quantity of ashes applied on a portion of the piece,
but could not see any difference between the hills ashed and
those that were not. I state above that I planted on the sur-
face, and my experience (when manure is not applied in the
hill) will justify me in saying that it will do much better than
when planted at the bottom of a furrow, on or near the cold
subsoil. The corn was hoed on the 12th of June. Twelve
days after, it was hoed the second time. July 24th, the surface
was stirred lightly with the hoe and cultivator. October 19th,
the supervisor weighed two rods, taken from different parts of
the field, which yielded 51|^ pounds to ihe rod ; which, at 85
pounds to the bushel, is 96|§ bushels.

Expenses : — Ploughing, $2 50 ; hoeing, $5 ; use of land, $6 ;
manure, $15. Total, $28 50.

I have estimated the value of the corn fodder to be equal to
the expense of planting and harvesting.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 497

Martin Leonardos Statement.

The land on which I raised the acre of Indian corn, for
which I entered my claim for a premium, is a sandy loam,
mowed for three years past without any top-dressing, and pro-
ducing about 15 cwt. of hay to the acre. Last May, carted on
fourteen cords of coarse stable manure, and spread evenly, and
ploughed it under eight inches deep ; I then harrowed smooth,
and furrowed three feet five inches apart one way. Then I
dropped the corn in the furrows, three corns in a hill, twenty
inches apart, and planted the 24th of May ; and soon after,
dropped a small handful of ashes, mixed with plaster, on each
hill ; went through with a cultivator three times, and hoed
twice. On the 12th, of October, the supervisor selected two
rods, from different parts of the piece, which weighed 50 pounds
and 6 ounces to the rod ; making, at 85 pounds to the bushel,
94|| bushels on the acre ; which, at 75 cents, is $71 12

Expenses : —
14 cords manure, at $3 per cord, . . $42 00

Carting and spreading the same,
Ploughing, harrowing and furrowing, .
Planting, $1 25; seed corn, 50 cts. ; .
10 bushels ashes, $1 50 ; plaster, $1 ; drop-
ping, 50 cts., .....
Cultivating and hoeing, ....

Deducting one-half manure, not exhausted,

Net profit, $31 37

1 consider the fodder to pay for harvesting and interest on
the land.

Jonathan Copeland\s Staieinent.

m
The three acres of land on which my corn was grown is a
yellow loam, an old field considered worn out. I bought it,
several years ago, for $15 25 ^Der acre. The last of April and
first of May, we put on forty-live loads of manure from my
barn cellar, probably forty cubic feet in a load ; also two tons
63

6 00
3 75
1 75

3 00

4 25

$60 75
21 00

$39 75

39 75

498 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

of meadow hay, spread the same on the sward. I ploughed
the ground full seven inches deep, deeper than it had heretofore
been ploughed. "We put on fifteen loads of fine manure, which
was put in the hills ; also twelve bushels of ashes, and an equal
quantity of manure, taken from under where my fowls roost,
mixed with the ashes. Planted three feet six inches apart both
ways. Commenced planting the 12th of May, with the Whit-
man corn, so called. The seed was selected when we husked
the previous crop. We hoed three times, using the cultivator
twice and plough once. The land was very light all summer,
and did not suffer at all from the drought. I did not cut my
stalks until late, — middle of September. We probably have
neglected this kind of land ; it is always warm, and well adapt-
ed to Indian corn.

N. B. — I will state that my corn cost me less than fifty cents
per bushel.

Spencer Leonard^ Jrh^ Statement.

The two acres entered by me for the best field of Indian
corn, of not less than two acres, is a light sandy soil. It has
been in grass two years ; and in June, 1851, a light crop of
clover was taken off; and the 25th of July, it was ploughed
seven or eight inches deep, and sowed to rye in August, ap-
plying one hundred bushels leached ashes to the acre. The
present year, about five cords manure were spread to the acre,
and, with the rye, which had attained an height of about eight-
een inches, were ploughed under, well harrowed, and planted
the 22d and 24th of May. It was planted three feet five inches
apart, one way, and one foot six inches the other, putting three
corns in a hill. A handful of leached ashes was put upon each
hill after planting. A cultivator was used between the rows
four times, and it was hoed three times. The corn planted was
the Smutty White, and was selected at the harvesting, of my
corn last year, selecting the driest, fairest, and best filled ears.
The stalks were cut about the middle of September. . I con-
sider the corn fodder to pay for cutting the stalks and harvest-
ing.

EXPENSE.

Ploughing, sowing rye and harrowing, in 1851, . $5 00

Two bushels rye sowed, . . . . . . 1 84

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

499

Ten cords manure, carting and spreading, .

$50 00

280 bushels ashes, carting and spreading, .

34 00

Ploughing in manure and rye, ....

4 50

Harrowing and furrowing, ....

2 00

Planting,

4 00

Cultivating, .......

2 50

Hoeing, ........

. 11 50

Seed corn, ........

. ' 75

Interest on land,

6 00

$122 09

Amount of corn'^obtained, as measured by the super-

visor, 188|| bushels, — at 75 cents,

. 141 35

One-half the manure and ashes, not exhausted, .

42 00

$183 35

Net profit, .......

. $61 26

Horace and Virgil Ames's Statement.

SUBSOILING.

The soil on which we experimented in subsoiling, for corn,
is a hard slate, a little inclining to clay ; the subsoil similar.
The ground was ploughed seven inches deep, and subsoiled six
inches, on the 7th and 8th of May ; and on the 19th and 20th,
it was planted. It was cultivated and manured alike ; in fact,
treated just alike, except the subsoiling. The difference in pro-
duct was four bushels shelled corn at harvest time, say 1st
November.

There was quite a perceptible difference in the cultivating
that which was subsoiled and that which was not, the subsoiled
appearing much the lightest. We expect to be benefited in
the after-crop, as we think the effects of subsoiling will be
somewhat lasting.

We think that two dollars per acre would be a fair compen-
sation for subsoiling common greensward land ; as far as our
trial went, it was not harder work to plough the subsoil than
the sward above.

Benjamin HoharCs Statement.
I ploughed one acre of ground on the 1st of May, and sub-
soiled one-half of it. Put on the whole, twenty-five ox-cart

500 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

loads of good compost manure, forty cubic feet to a load;
spread and ploughed it in. As it became very wet, I could
not sow it, and had to plough it again about the 20th of May.

After drying two or three days, harrowed it over, and, on the
26t]i of May, sowed two and one-quarter bushels wheat on the
piece and harrowed it in ; sowed grass seed and bushed it over
twice. It was sowed two weeks later than usual, and although
high ground, it could not be sowed sooner.

The soil was of a slaty mould. I found I did not sow seed
enough and it did not come up well, and it became very dry
and continued so for weeks, and, in fact, all the season. I
reaped it on the 23d of August, and did it out September 24th,
1852, by a horse-threshing machine.

The result on the subsoiled part, S^- bushels ; on the part not
subsoiled, 5|- bushels ; making in the whole, 13| bushels.

This showed much in favor of subsoiling, and it shows its
benefit in a very dry season, as the last was. I subsoil now,
yearly, all my cultivated land, and find it very useful.

Spencer Leonard, JrJ's, Statement.

SMALL GRAINS.

The land on which I raised my barley was planted to corn
last year, and produced a heavy crop. This year, April, 30th,
it was ploughed about eight inches deep, and May 4th, 3|
bushels seed was applied, and well harrowed and rolled ; no
manure having been applied since taking off the corn. It was
cut about the middle of July and threshed soon after. Ob-
tained thirty -two bushels on one acre and six rods. Expenses :
3i bushels seed, at 75 cts. per bushel, $2 44. Ploughing,

$1 60. Sowing seed and harrowing, $1 56. Rolling, 33 cts.

Cutting and getting in, ^1 75. Threshing and cleaning, $5.

Total, $12 68.

Benjamin Hobarfs Statement.

ROOT CROPS.

Ploughed one-half acre of land, and subsoiled it the first
week in May, of a good loamy soil, which was in corn last year
from greensw^ard. Spread on the same thirteen loads, of forty

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 501

cubic feet to a load, of good compost manure, principally from
the horse stable. Divided the half acre into two quarters, and
planted one-quarter to beets on the 24th of May, and one-quar-
ter to carrots, on the 28th. One-half was mangel wurtzel, and
the other. White French sugar beets, and long red blood beets.
Hoed and weeded them on the 18th and 19th of June, and
again in July, and thinned them out. The result, by the
measurement of the supervisor, Horace Callamore, Esq., was,
of the beets, on the quarter of an acre, a little over 257 bushels
of 56 pounds to the bushel, being over 1,028 bushels to the acre.

Seth Bprague's Statement.

The quarter of an acre of land, entered by me for premium
for carrots, is a sandy loam, was in turnips last year, the crop
of which was very small ; having given it at that time an extra
quantity of manure and dressed it with ashes and bone dust.
I put on, this spring, but few loads of compost manure of mid-
dling strength, ploughing and subsoiling it eighteen inches
deep, the last week in April. The first week in May harrowed
and hand-raked the ground smooth, planted the orange variety
with a seed-sower in rows, eighteen inches apart, thinning them
to six inches apart in the rows. There were many small vacant
spots in two-thirds of the field, sowed with seed purchased in
Boston; the other part sowed with seed raised myself, came up
very thick and even and had a better growth than the others.
They were hoed four times, and harvested the second week in
November, previous to which the supervisor measured one rod,
gathered and weighed them, and made less than two hundred
bushels. The sjiot was selected by myself, which I considered,
at the time, would give less than an average, but not expecting
to obtain the first premium, I felt indilTerent as to the quantity
reported. My men finished harvesting them a few days since,
and they inform me that they had a little over three hundred
bushels, that they were very particular in weight and measure?
and cannot be mistaken. The size and length of the carrots
give evidence to the correctness of this report. This I believe
is a larger yield than has been reported at any previous time.
When this is exceeded, I will try again. I think I can raise
four hundred bushels to the quarter of an acre.

502 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

EXPENSE.

Ploughing, subsoiling, harrowing, raking, and sowing, $2 50
Hoeing and thinning, . . . . . . . 10 00

Harvesting, 7 00

$19 50
The tops given to my cattle, were worth as much as the
compost put on.

Jonathan Copelandfs Statement.

The quarter of an acre entered by me for premium on car-
rots, was the same that I had carrots on last year. The mid-
dle of April we put on ten cart-loads of manure, and ploughed
it in nine inches deep. The 20th of May, ploughed the ground
again, harrowed and brushed it, and commenced sowing by
hand, in drills, eighteen inches apart; seed, orange variety. It
took two men one day to sow them, and six days' work to
weed and thin them out. My carrots are about as large at the
top as they were last year, but not so long and heavy. I think
the ground wants stirring with a subsoil plough.

Ahiel Bassetfs Statement,

ONIONS AND WINTER SQUASHES.

The quarter of an acre of land I entered for premium on
onions, is a light mould ; it was in onions last year. The 16th
of April I put on ten cart-loads of stable manure, which was
spread and well ploughed in ; the 21st I spread on forty bushels
of dry ashes, and sowed the seed with a machine. I raised
my own seed the year previous. The hoeing and weeding
were done by odd jobs, which I estimated at about six days'
work. October the 5th the land was surveyed, and the onions
measured on one square rod, which produced 4^ bushels, which
would be 680 bushels to the acre. The certificate of the sur-
veyor, I enclose in this communication.

Bridgeavater, Oct. 5, J852.
I hereby certify that I have this day measured, for Deacon
Abiel Bassett, one-fourth of an acre of ground, on which he
has raised onions the present season, and selected one square

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 503

rod thereof, which I judged to produce an average of the
whole, and measured therefrom four bushels and one peck.

Isaac Fobes, Surveyor.

I hereby certify that I assisted in pulling and cutting off the
tops of the above-said onions, and witnessed measurement,
which was as above-stated.

William H. Livermore.

Austin J. Roberts's Statement.

I have raised this year, on one-quarter of an acre of ground,
4,942 pounds of squashes, or 2 tons 942 pounds, which is at
the rate of 9 tons 1,768 pounds per acre.

The sward was turned over on the 1st of May, the soil
being a light gravelly loam. Holes two feet in diameter and
one foot deep, were dug, ten feet apart each way. To each
hole three large shovelsful of a prepared compost was thor-
oughly mixed with the earth taken out, and the holes refilled.
About the middle of May, the seed was sown ; the unneces-
sary plants were pulled up, leaving only three of the thriftiest.
When they were two inches high, two quarts of unleached
ashes were strewed around each of the hills and slightly hoed
in. Bugs by-and-by appeared, but were happily made sensi-
ble that a strong solution of quassia and tobacco rendered the
vines unpalatable.

The variety raised was the custard squash, which I have
cultivated for the last three years with satisfaction, and which
has been improved with me, in flavor and color, by crossing it
with the marrow squash. It readily sells in large cities, at re-
munerating prices.

Nathan WhitmarCs Statement.

The land, one-quarter of an acre, on which I raised my
squashes, was last season, planted to potatoes. I ploughed it
deep, say seven inches, harrowed and rolled it, then furrowed
it five feet apart one way, and put on six loads of good ma-
nure from barn cellar, and dropped it in the furrows, five feet
apart. In August, went through with one furrow in each row.

504

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

pulled out the weeds and thinned out the squashes, leaving
three vines in each hill, half crooked necks and half marrow-
fats. Gathered from the same, 4,523 pounds.

Dairy.

The committee on the dairy have attended to the duty as-
signed them, and submit the following report: —

There were thirty-one entries for a premium on butter, and
your committee have awarded the following :

Mrs. Nahum Leonard, "West Bridgewater,
" Lydia D. Holmes, Bridgewater, .
" Julia A. Holmes, "

" Thalia E. Weston, Middleborough, .
" Pardon Copeland, West Bridgewater,

The number of claimants for premiums on
fourteen.

Mrs. Lydia W. Eddy, Middleborough,
" Thalia E. Weston, "

« Rachel All^n, Bridgewater,
« William Tillson, Halifax, .
" Nahum Snell, West Bridgewater,

Respectfully submitted,

Calvin B. Pratt, Chairman.

. %1

cheese was

. P

. 3

Horses and Colts.

The committee on horses and colts have attended to their
duty, and report as follows : —

There were no horses entered for premium. There were
sixteen colts entered, which were very good, and it was with
some difficulty your committee could determine on which to
recommend a premium ; but, after a careful examination, we
recommend the following: —

Charles Shaw, of Middleborough, for 1 two-year old
colt, first premium, . . . . . , . ^8 00

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 505

George King, of Bridgewater, for 1 three-year old, . $5 00
Austin J. Roberts, Middleborough, 1 " " . 4 00

Jonathan Howard, West Bridgewater, for 1 two-year

old colt, one vol. Boston Cultivator; Elijah Cush-

ing, of Hanson, 1 three-year old colt, one vol. Mass.

Ploughman ; Seth Stoddard, Hingham, 1 one-year

old colt, one \(f\ N. E. Farmer.

Respectfully submitted,

Nahum M. Tribou, Chairman.

Stock.

The committee on stock beg leave to report that the number
of cattle, in their department, entered for premium, was not so
large as that of last year; nor were they generally, in point of
quality, as good. There were but three milch cows exhibited,
which is smaller than the usual average number. A good cow,
of native breed, was entered by Isam Leonard, of Bridgewater,
concerning which Mr. Leonard say^ : — " The cow entered by
me for premium is six years old, and was raised on the farm.
She calved on the 16th of May last ; the calf, at four weeks'
old, weighed eighty-five pounds. She was milked three times
a day after the calf was taken away, giving sixteen quarts per
day. In fifteen days in June, — from the 15th to the 29th,
inclusive, — she gave 240 quarts of milk, from which were
made 35 pounds of butter. In fifteen days in September, she
gave 13 quarts per day, from which were made 23| pounds of
butter. She had no meal or grain."

Josiah Whitman, of East Bridgewater, says of his cow : —
" The cow which I present for premium is partly of native and
partly of Durham blood, and was five years old last April ; on
the 27th of which month she calved. I sold the calf, at five
weeks old, for $7, it weighing at that age 100 pounds. My
cow had pretty good pasture in June. In September, feed be-
ing short, I soiled her upon corn fodder, sown for that pur-
pose. In ten days, in June, she gave 305 pounds 8 ounces of
milk, from which were made 16 pounds 4 ounces of butter.
In ten days, in September, she gave 265 pounds 2 ounces of
64

506 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

milk, from which were made 12 pounds 2 ounces of butter.
Total butter made in twenty days, 28 pounds 6 ounces."

The three-year old heifer of Lewis Leonard, of Bridgewater,
gave, as appears from his statement to the committee, in ten
days in June, 10-|- pounds of butter ; and in ten days in Sep-
tember, 8| pounds.

The two-year old heifer of Josiah L. Bassett, of Bridge-
water, gave, in ten days in June, 9 pounds of butter; and in
the same number of days in September, 7| pounds.

The heifer of Sidney Packard, of East Bridgewater, eighteen
months old, attracted a good deal of attention. She, and also
that presented by Nahum Snell, of West Bridgewater, two
years old, were not inferior, the committee are inclined to
think, to any of the same class of animals which have here-
tofore received the bounty of the society on any former exhi-
bition.

The committee regret that Mr. Kingman, of North Bridge-
water, gave no definite statement with regard to his bull;
simply saying of him that " he is of the Ayrshire and Durham
breed." This bull was of good form ; but the committee
must say that neither he nor any other offered for their inspec-
tion and judgment seemed at all distinguished for remarkable
properties.

Other stock were examined by the committee, which they
have not time to make particular mention of; they therefore
recommend the following award of premiums : —

For the best milch cow —

1. Isam Leonard, Bridgewater, .

2. Josiah Whitman, East Bridgewater,

3. Benjamin Crooker, Bridgewater, .
For best heifer having had a calf —

1. Lewis Leonard, of Bridgewater, \

2. Josiah L. Bassett, of "
For best heifer not having had a calf —

1. Sidney Packard, of East Bridgewater,

2. Nahum Snell, of West Bridgewater,
For best bull —

1. Eliphalet Kingman, of North Bridgewater,

2. Isaac Pratt, of Middleborough,

5 00

3 00

. . 5 00

3 00

4 00

2 00

ter, . 5 00

3 00

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 507

For best bull calf —

1. Isaac Pratt, of Middleborough, . . . $3 00

2. William Dunbar, of Bridgewater, . . . 2 00
For best heifer calf —

1. Samuel W. Baker, of Bridgewater, . . 3 00

2. Calvin Chamberlain, of East Bridgewater, . 2 00
For two-year old heifer and calf, Nathaniel Cross, of

North Bridgewater, a gratuity of . . . . 2 00
They also award one vol. Mass. Ploughman to Ed-
mund Q. Sylvester, for a one-year old bull ; and
one vol. N. E. Farmer to Henry Hall, of Bridge-
water, for a one-year old heifer.

Respectfully subniitted,

Horace Ames, Chairman.

Swine.

[The committee report that 54 swine were entered. Only
six premiums were offered. The following premiums and gra-
tuities were awarded: — ]

First premium, for boar, to Calvin Leavitt, Bridgewater,

pure Suffolk breed, 7 months old, . . . . $4 00

Second do. do., to George King, Bridgewater, three-
fourths SuffoDv, one-fourth China, 17 months old, . 3 00

First premium, for breeding sow, to Joseph C. Norton,

Bridgewater, pure Suffolk, 17 months old, . . 4 00

Second do. do., to Amasa Howard, West Bridgewater,
one-half Suffolk, one-fourth Middlesex, one-fourth na-
tive, 15 months old, 3 00

First premium, for best litter of weaned pigs, to Crom-
well Alden, Bridgewater, three-fourths Suffolk, one-
fourth native, 4 months old, 4 00

Second do. do., to Nahum Snell, West Bridgewater,

one-fourth Suffolk, three-fourths native, 2 months old, 3 00

Gratuity to George B. Stetson, Bridgewater, for one
pair of pure Suffolk pigs, 6 months old, from the im-

508 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

ported stock of G. G. Hubbard, Esq., of West Need-
ham, very handsome, . . . . . . $3 00

Also a gratuity to Joseph C. Norton, of Bridgewater,
for four pure Suffolk pigs, over 6 months old, . . 3 00

Respectfully submitted,

Dion Bryant, /or Committee.

Ploughing.

The committee on ploughing submit the following : —
They found on the ground selected for ploughing, at the
appointed time, sixteen teams, and ready to commence their
labors. Eighteen teams were entered. The lot selected was
a stiff, hard soil, some tough meadow grass roots, with some
gravel and hard pans, and taking it altogether, it was very hard
ploughing. Still they performed the service in the time ap-
pointed them, and your committee are happy to say, they
generally performed the work well. As we had money pre-
miums and papers allowed us, sufficient for all, we have
awarded to each competitor something, with the exception
of one.

We awarded as follows : —

1. Philander Wood, of Bridgewater, . . . . ^10 00

2. Francis Copeland, " .... 9 00

3. Abram Washburn, » .... 8 00

4. Willard Wood, « .... 7 00

5. Nathaniel Southworth, of Carver, . . . . 6 00

6. Calvin Chamberlain, of East Bridgewater, . . 5 00

7. George W. Bates, of Bridgewater, . . . . 4 00
John J. Howard, of do., one vol. Massachusetts Ploughman.
Albert Thomas, of Middleborough, one vol. of do.

Paul Hathaway, " " one vol. of do.

Elijah H. Leonard, of Bridgewater, one vol. of the Boston

Cultivator.
Kenelm Winslow, of Bridgewater, one vol. of do.
Horace Ames, " one vol. of do.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 509

Daniel Shaw, of Carver, one vol. New England Farmer.
Ira Conant, of Bridgewater, one vol. of do.

Respectfully submitted,

Abram Washburn, 2d, for Committee.

Steers.

Your committee on steers, submit the following report :
There were entered for premium, five pairs of three years

old, one pair of two years old, and one pair of one year old ;

and we recommend the following premiums : —

Chipman Porter, of Halifax, for one pair of three-year
old steers, first premium, . . . . . . $5 00

Seth H. Leonard, of Bridgewater, for one pair of three-
year old steers, second do., . . . . . 3 00

Philander Wood, of East Bridgewater, for one pair of

two-year old steers, first premium, . . . . 4 00

Elijah Cushing, of Hanson, for one pair of one-year old
steers, (twins,) broke and presented by his boy, nine
years of age, . . . . . . . . 3 00

Aretas Fobes, of Bridgewater, for one pair of three-
year old steers, one vol. Massachusetts Ploughman.

Respectfully submitted,

William Tillson, Chairman.

Working Oxen.

The committee on working oxen, have attended to the duty
assigned them, and make the following report :

There were nineteen yoke of oxen presented for premium,
and we recommend as follows : —

1. Willard Wood, of Bridgewater, . . . . $7 00

2. George W. Bates, of « .... 5 00

510 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

3. Aretas Fobes, of Bridgewater, . . . . $3 00

4. Abram Washburn, 2d, of Bridgewater, . . 1 00
Paul Hathaway, of Middleborough, one voh Massachusetts

Ploughman,
Nahum M. Tribou, of Middleborough, one vol. of do.
Galen Conant, of Bridgewater, one vol. Boston Cultivator.
Nathaniel Southworth, of Carver, one vol. of do.
Philander Wood, of Bridgewater, one vol. N. E. Farmer.
Elisha G. Leach one vol. of do.

Waldo Hayward, for Committee.

Beef Cattle.

The committee on beef cattle have attended to their duty,
and make the following report :

There were thirteen fat oxen entered for premium, and we
recommend as follows : —

1. Bela Hill, of East Bridgewater, . . . . $10 00

2. « « " .... 7 00

3. Cyrus Washburn of Middleborough, . . . 5 00

4. Kenelm Winslow, Bridgewater, . . . . 3 00

There were six fat cows entered for premium.

1. Abram Washburn, of Bridgewater, . . . 6 00

2. George King, " « ... 4 00
Martin Leonard, of do., one vol. Mass Ploughman.
Nathan Willis, « « «

Philander Wood, « « "

Jonathan Howard of Bridgewater, one vol. Cultivator.
Benjamin Hobart, " "

Ebenezer Hathaway, '«' "

Richard Thayer, " N. E. Farmer.

Reuben Thompson, of Plympton, " " "

Cyrus Washburn, of Middleborough, " " "

Your committee recommend that there be one more premi-
um added to the fat cows in future.

Respectfully submitted,

John Tilden, Chairman.

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 511

COMPOST MANURES.

BY J. E. HOWARD.

At the annual meeting of the trustees, held at Bridgewater,
November 10th, 1852, the following remarks on compost ma-
nures, having been read by J. E. Howard, of West Bridgewater,
were ordered to be printed with the Transactions of the So-
ciety.

Mr. President, — I beg leave to submit for the consideration
of the trustees, a few remarks on the " manufacture of compost
manures, and their application to the various soils of this
county." Leaving the contest for the prizes proposed, to abler
pens than mine, I would merely offer a few hints on a subject
upon which the trustees have m,anifested a wish — hitherto not
responded to — to provoke discussion. I do this, let me add,
in the hope that, should any be suggested worthy of being
recalled, they may be turned to profitable account ; and that,
on the other hand, should it be otherwise, the attempt with
the attending circumstances, may be speedily forgotten. Be-
fore proceeding, however, I must be permitted to make a few
preliminary observations on another subject.

It unfortunately happens that errors in practise sometimes
spring from a misconstruction of sound, no less than from the
adoption of false maxims of conduct. To illustrate this re-
mark, I would cite the often repeated aphorism, that " in the
vegetable as in the animal kingdom, like produces like." Now
this doubtless is true, but not, it is believed, in the sense in
which it is sometimes understood. An interpretation is not
unfrequently given to this law of reproduction, which neither
facts nor sound philosophy seem to warrant.

Intimately connected with the preservation and happiness
of the different orders of beings that inhabit our earth is the
continuation of the different varieties of plants which it is
adapted to produce. Hence each perfectly developed seed, of
every species, is endowed with the power of producing a plant
sui generis^ of its own kind, and capable in its turn, of bearing

512 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

seed. Thus a succession is established which is to continue ;
and to which as well as to other objects, look forward those
instinctive anticipations implanted in every breast, upon which
the successful conduct of human life essentially depends. Di-
vine wisdom and goodness have ordained that every plant shall
produce after its kind. It is not necessary to suppose, however,
that the offspring must always, and in every particular be an
exact counterpart of the parent plant. On the contrary, the
fulfilment of this decree is perfectly consistent with marked and
striking accidental differences between them. A hill of Indian
corn grown under the most unfavorable circumstances, will
exhibit the widest possible contrast as to external appearance,
and amount of production, when compared, in recollection,
with its immediate predecessor from which the seed was taken,
grown under circumstances entirely the reverse. And yet no
obstacle which such diversity interposes, will prevent an
easy recognition of their identity of species. Characteristic
resemblances will always be too strong for this. Hence no
dissimilitude of such a nature can, in any case, be justly con-
strued into a violation of the generic law that " like produces
like."

Besides, if it be a physiological fact, as we are assured it
is, that all the nourishment stored in the seed is consumed in
developing the germ and the first radical fibres, it necessarily
follows that the seed can supply, beyond this, no nourishment
for the further growth of the plant ; so that whether it attain
to a comparatively large or small size only ; — whether it put
forth few or many roots, branches, twigs, leaves, and blossoms ;
— or whether it bear little or much fruit, will depend not upon
the seed, but upon the action of influences, and the presence
of conditions wholly extrinsic and independent of the seed.

If these views be correct, therefore, it is an error to suppose,
as is frequently done, that the kernels from the more prolific
stalks of Indian corn, for example, are endowed with a myste-
rious power of production not possessed by those of the less
prolific, the latter being perfectly developed and of the same
crop and variety.

I have thus alluded to this prejudice, as I must term it,
having been hardly able to resist the temptation offered by the
present occasion to do so, even though I should thereby render

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 513

myself obnoxious to the charge of travelling somewhat out of
the record, and touching upon things irrelevant. I now pro-
ceed to submit a few observations more immediately connected
with the subject matter under consideration.

Concerning the county of Plymouth, the opinion seems to be
more prevalent than it formerly was that her soils are adapt-
ed to the culture of fruits. And judging from the reports of
officers, and the statements of competitors for premiums pro-
posed by the trustees of this society, to encourage the raising
of Indian corn, there is, at least, one other crop which can be
grown here with something more than tolerable success. In-
deed, the magnificent results which have been attained in the
culture of this plant, could hardly have been predicted, little
more than a quarter of a century ago, without incurring the
imputation, I had almost said, of mid-summer or som.e other
madness ; so little encouragement did the meager experience
of that period give to any just expectation of such unlooked for
issues. What has been achieved is alike creditable, allow me
to say, to the parties who have reaped and are still reaping
their reward, and to the society. It had been thus creditable
in fact, had the efforts of the former been crowned with a
success less brilhant ; since something might well have been
spared from the superabundance of production, in some in-
stances, and enough still have been left, one would think, to
satisfy the reasonable ambition of any reasonable man.

Competitors have satisfactorily demonstrated that by a
course of deep manuring with ordinary composts, heavier
crops may be grown on congenial soils, under favorable cir-
cumstance, than it had been thought possible to produce.
For this they are entitled to our gratitude, and to that of the
public no less. Yet notwithstanding what has thus been done,
it must nevertheless be admitted that little progress has been
made in practically elucidating the momentous question with
reference to what combination or combinations of matter, in
the form of manure, are best adapted to supply the various
elements of nutrition to this great staple of our country. In-
dividual experiences have been too nearly alike, practise too
little diversified, and not sufficiently influenced by theory ; —
nature has not been often enough carefully interrogated in the
field, to afford data sufficient to warrant any satisfactory con-
65

514 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

elusions on the subject. Intelligent agriculturists may have
displayed industry, skill, energy, and perseverance, without
stint. They may have evinced an honorable ambition for ex-
cellence, and a desire to bear away the prize ; — may have used
all diligence to enlarge the dimensions of their manure heaps ;
— but whatever else has been done, they seem to have con-
tributed little towards augmenting the stock of materials for
rural science.

It has often been substantially said, and very justly, that
in agricultural as in many other active pursuits, art and
science should go hand-in-hand. It is equally true, that in no
department of his calling is this more necessary to the prac-
tical farmer, than in that of the preparation of his composts.
Let us look at the subject a little in this point of view.

Composts may be considered well adapted to soils, when
they are formed by combining with the feces and liquids of
stock, diflerent loams, and vegetable matter in the form of
muck in a finely divided state, in quantities varying according
to the varying characters of those soils ; that is, as they are
more or less warm and light, on the one hand, or dark and
heavy on the other : those being designed for the latter in
which the loamy portion of their ingredients are made to pre-
ponderate, and the reverse. This method the practical good
sense of many farmers readily suggests to them ; and that it is,
so far as it goes, good husbandry, there can be little question.
The double purpose is thereby accomplished of benefiting crops,
and, at the same time, permanently improving the soil.

There are, however, as is well known, other methods of im-
proving soils, not involving a course of manuring. The most
common of these are, perhaps, those of deepening — a gradual
process — draining, and mixing, or changing the relative propor-
tions of their respective ingredients, to some extent, with a
view to modify their relations to light, heat and moisture, and
neutralize the pernicious influence exerted by any single one
existing in great disproportion to the rest ; as sand, clay and
vegetable matter are often found to do.

These are common operations at the present day, and they
are resorted to as remedies for serious evils ; remedies easily
discovered, fortunately, and often easily applied ; and this, too,
without the aid of chemical analysis. But in further fulfilling

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 515

the requirements of an enlightened system, a more difficult
task awaits the intelligent husbandman, in the proper adapta-
tion of manures to the different crops to be cultivated. This
is a matter of great moment, as the highest success in his call-
ing will essentially depend upon the degree of intelligence,
skill, and persevering industry which shall be made tributary
thereto. But apart from all considerations of material interest
merely, it must not be forgotten that he, who, in this enlightened
age, should persist in treating every crop with an unvarying
compost, will soon come to be viewed much in the same light
with the medical practitioner who should always prescribe one
and the same remedy, without regard, in any particular case,
either to the nature of the disease or the idiosyncrasy of his
patient. In order, however, to attain any desirable success in
the way of such adaptation, the aids of science must be in-
voked. They must be sought chiefly, perhaps, in the first
place, for the purpose of ascertaining the chemical composition
of the plants to be grown. This is essential, since the elements
of which they are individually composed, are identical, in kind,
with those which form their peculiar and appropriate nourish-
ment. They must be sought, in the next place, in order to
reveal the sources whence such nourishment can best be de-
rived. To give, in few words, a partial illustration of this, I
would remark that analytic chemistry has shown, with reference
to Indian corn, for instance, that the principal substances, —
those which it most concerns the farmer to know, — entering
into its composition are, potash, soda, magnesia, phosphorus,
silica, sulphur, and nitrogen. And in doing this, it has also,
at the same time, indirectly shown that these constitute its ap-
propriate food, and hence are indispensable, in some form, to
its perfect growth and development. The entire absence of
either would prove fatal to the crop ; and a redundance of the
rest, would not compensate for an inadequate supply of any
single one. So, if I mistake not, are we instructed to believe.
Now potash, soda, magnesia, &c., or any combinations of
them with acids, are not different things here from what they
are in the county of Bristol, or anywhere else. They are the
same everywhere. All composts for corn, then, whether de-
signed for the soils of Plymouth County or for those of any
other, should be adapted to supply it with appropriate food ;

516 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

that is, should be adapted to supply these substances. Here is
a precise and definite object, which, if these observations be
correct, should be kept constantly in view ; and, for the suc-
cessful prosecution of which, all farmers who go into this cul-
ture should endeavor to prepare themselves.

There is nothing peculiar in the circumstances of the farmer
of Plymouth County requiring a mode of management, in this
regard, dilTering at all from that necessary to be pursued by
others. If the physical constitution of our soil differs, in any
respect, from that of other places, — if the silicious element be,
as it probably is, more copiously diffused here, in some locali-
ties, than it is in many other parts of the State, — it is equally
true that it is found to exist, in undue proportion, in some fields
of almost every farm, wherever situated ; and judicious modes
of treating soils in which this, or aluminous mineral, or vege-
table matter, are present in greater or less disproportion to the
other ingredients, appear to be those of manuring or mixing,
according to circumstances, as already suggested. Then as to
appropriate manure ; it is a most important and interesting
question, what are the substances to be incorporated into the
usual composts, or combined for separate application, best
adapted to supply with them, or otherwise, the nutritious prin-
ciples above specified? Where is the requisite nourishment
to be found, in a state adapted to organize a crop?

Almost all our soils contain such, since almost all of them
are capable of producing corn, in a greater or less quantity.
Ordinary composts, that is, composts formed of the excretions
of cattle kept upon hay, corn fodder, and straw, combined with
litter, muck, loam, (one or both,) with or without wood ashes,
also contain it, since they serve to augment production ; but in
neither is it found, at once, in sufficient quantity and in an
available form. This is evident from the /act that substances
ascertained, by chemical analysis, to be rich in elements in
which such composts are comparatively deficient, when em-
ployed in conjunction with the latter, will still further augment
production. But what are such substances ? What will do
this ? I answer, guano probably will do it ; although from my
own experience I know not such to be the case. One thing in
respect to it is certain, and that is, that the recent agitation of the
question concerning the proprietorship of the Lobos Islands,

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 517

indicates pretty clearly the estimation in which this substance
is held, as a fertilizer, by some nations. Poudrette, properly
prepared, will have a similar effect ; as will also some other
manures, as that prepared by combining muck with corn and
cob-meal, in the proportion of five or six bushels of the former
to one of the latter, and saturating and fermenting the mix-
ture* with urine.' The quality of this fertilizer may be im-
proved, perhaps, by the substitution, for muck, of fine dray,
stable manure, whether made from hay, grain and litter, or
from hay and litter only. Yet however this may be, my ex-
perience enables me to state that a manure, identical in com-
position with what this last would be, such substitution having
been made, and with the exception of corn and cob-meal, none
of that having been added, was drilled, in small quantity, with
the seed, the past season, on a soil where fine compost had
been spread and harrowed in, at the rate of fifteen or sixteen
ox-cart loads to the acre, with marked success. It was not
long necessary, I would remark, after the blade appeared, to
recur, in this case, to monuments, in order to ascertain the local
limits of the experiment. That part of the field to which the
application had been made, soon became clearly defined ; the
crop there, although occupying the larger portion of the most
unfavorable soil, exhibiting a deeper shade of color, and being
marked by a more rapid and vigorous growth than that on the
residue of the piece. It also attained an earlier maturity than
the latter. Similar comparative results I have uniformly found
to follow similar applications of such manures.

A part of another field devoted to the culture of Indian corn,
the past season, received a somewhat heavier dressing than the
former of compost, which was spread, broadcast, in a finely
divided state, and carefully wrought into the surface soil by
means of the harrow and bush. Here, too, was drilled with
the seed a fertilizer similarly constituted with that last men-
tioned. Of this more was added to a few hills just before the
second hoeing ; and to an equal number, in an adjoining row,
was applied, at the same time, a small quantity of guano.
With reference to these, neither appeared to have any advan-

* If in a moist state when used, soil should be drawn over it with the foot or a hoe
upon which the kernels should be dropped.

518 PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

tage compared with the other ; nor did they appear to have
any advantage compared with those on the other parts of the
field.

I might add to these details, but it would be unnecessary to
do so. I will, however, merely state further, that, from several
experiments made in drilling corn and cob-meal with the seed,
at planting (a handful to the hill) on soils where compost had
been previously spread, I have been unable to perceive from it
any favorable influence whatever. Had the meal, in the cases
referred to, been previously subjected to the putrefactive pro-
cess, the results would probably have been different.

Farmers need not be told that corn will produce meat, of
this they are well aware ; but the fact that the converse of the
proposition is true, seems to have been overlooked by them, or,
for the most part, practically disregarded. In the view of en-
lightened theory, the composts which we generally employ to
promote the growth of corn are proportionably deficient in cer-
tain substances, namely, potash, magnesia, phosphorus, and
available nitrogen ; or in other words, in the elements of bread
and meat. And facts are not wanting which seem to confirm
the suggestions of theory on this subject. Let us, then, en-
deavor to remedy this defect. And that we may stand the
better chance of succeeding in this, and in placing ourselves in
a condition to be able, when desirable so to do, to supply, as
far as practicable, in a state adapted for assimilation, all the
nourishment necessary to perfect the growth of this noble
plant, let us husband and make the most of all our resources,
and look for efficient means of success to what the seed and
the cob (to say nothing of the residue thereof) are fitted to sup-
ply ; and also to what may be derived from the human biped
as well as from the brute quadruped.

From what has now been said concerning composts for
Indian corn, may easily be inferred, without further taxing
your patience, the principles which should govern practise with
reference to the mode of preparing appropriate manurefs for
other plants differing from it in their nature and habits. The
ash of the potato, according to the analysis of the celebrated
M. Boussingault, contains — the tubers, a fraction over 51, and
the haulm or tops, a fraction over 44, per cent, of potash. This
fact suggests the importance of a liberal use of that mineral,

PLYMOUTH SOCIETY. 519

in some form, in the culture of this plant ; and also the im-
portant purpose in supplying it to which the tops may be made
subservient. Says Leibig, " Give to one plant — so says the
rational theory — such substances as are necessary for its de-
velopment, but spare those which are not requisite for the pro-
duction of other plants that require them."

Allow me, then, in conclusion, to express the hope that a
new and increasing interest may speedily be awakened in the
minds of farmers, on the subject of thus properly feeding the
plants they cultivate ; and that in the benefits which a gratify-
ing success therein shall bring, through the instrumentality of
improved systems of education, and increasing facilities for the
acquisition and diffusion of appropriate knowledge, — advan-
tages which shall be, at least, in part of their own procuring, —
they may reap for their labors a rich and lasting reward.

520 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

BRISTOL COUNTY AGEICULTURAL
SOCIETY.

The County of Bristol, in respect to the fertility of its soil, is
not among the most favored portions of the Commonwealth.
In some parts of it, manufactures and the mechanic arts, and,
in other portions, commerce and the whale fisheries, are the most
important interests. But there is in the county a large body
of intelligent farmers ; and, recently, agriculture and horticul-
ture have engaged an unusual degree of attention. The
Bristol County Agricultural Society has held a respectable, but
not a prominent rank among kindred associations. At several
periods, public attention has been attracted towards it ; but at
no former time has so general an interest been manifested in it
as within the last few years. The increased interest in agri-
culture and horticulture throughout the country has been shared
by this county. The cooperation of all producers has been
invited by this society. Our exhibitions of the products of
the county have increased in extent and variety from year to
year. Our anniversary has now become emphatically the
county festival. Farmers, mechanics, manufacturers, mer-
chants, and professional men, with their wives and children,
contribute to the exhibition, and participate in its cares and its
enjoyments. It has come to be a day looked forward to with
pleasant anticipations by the people of every walk of life.
This year, the exhibition, while in a few departments it did not
perhaps come up to the standard of some former years, .did, on
the whole, surpass in merits, beauty and attractiveness, that of
any former one. The cattle show and exhibition were held on
the fourteenth and fifteenth days of October, occupying two
days, as last year ; an arrrangement which has proved so sat-
isfactory, that the same course will probably be pursued here-
after.

The exhibition of animals continued from ten o'clock on the

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 521

first, to two o'clock on the second day. The ploughing-match
and the trial of working oxen were on the first day. The ex-
hibition of agricultural products, fruits, flowers and domestic
and other manufactures, was continued through both days, and
attracted crowds of visitors, and universal admiration. The
hall was arranged with admirable taste and skill by the com-
mittee who had that matter in charge, assisted by ladies of
Taunton, to whom the society is under great obligations for
its success.

A meeting of the members of the society was held on the
morning of the second day, October 15, at which officers and
committees for the ensuing year were elected. After the
transaction of business, the society proceeded to the church
to listen to the Address. The day was unpropitious, opening
with a violent storm of rain ; but, notwithstanding, a full
house listened with interested attention to the Address, by the
Hon. Robert C. Winthrop, of Boston, which will be found
in the following pages, and is now published by the unanimous
vote of the society.

After the Address, the procession was formed, under the
direction of Theodore Dean, Esq., chief marshal, and pro-
ceeded to Templar Hall, where a beautifully arranged and
bountiful dinner was partaken of by more than three hundred
ladies and gentlemen. Eloquent and interesting speeches
were made by the orator of the day, and other gentlemen, of
which no report can be made. It ought to be stated, that on
this, as on a former occasion, Hon. James Arnold and Hon.
James Grinnell, of New Bedford, and Dr. Nathan Durfee,
of Fall River, placed at the disposal of the committee of
arrangements, for the use of the table, the magnificent grapes,
of several varieties, contributed by those gentlemen for the
exhibition. At the table, also, the reports of the committees,
and the award of premiums, a list of which may be found in
the following pages, were made.

The cooperation of all friends of agriculture, manufactures,
and the mechanic arts, is respectfully invited to aid the future
operations of the society.

J. H. W. PAGE, President.
66

522 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

Farm Improvements.

The committee on farm improvements, to whom was referred
the claim of Hiram Copeland, of Easton, for a premium for
reclaiming one acre and three-quarters of bog or swamp land,
ask leave respectfully to report : —

That Mr. Copeland appeared before the committee, at their
last meeting in Taunton, and gave an oral account of his
modus operandi in reclaiming and subduing said land. Mr.
Anson Gilmore also verified his statement as to the treatment
of the land, and the measurement thereof. Whereupon, in the
absence of the written account herewith presented, — which it
was then impossible to obtain, it having been left three miles
from the town, — and there being no other competitor for the
award, the committee voted to Mr. Copeland, for the aforesaid
experiment, the premium of ^10.

On receiving subsequently the written statement of Mr.
Copeland, we are compelled to say, it was not so perfect, full,
or explicit, as, from the representations made to the committee,
we had anticipated. And we are also of opinion, that, as a
general rule, premiums should not be awarded for land thus
reclaimed, till the first crop of grass therefrom shall have been
ascertained.

All which is respectfully submitted, by

Johnson Gardner, for the Committee.

Hiram Copeland^ s Statement.

The meadow or swamp land, which I offer for our society's
premium, is a part of a swamp that was partially subdued in
1824 by digging a ditch through a hill five rods in length and
eight feet deep, and covered over to drain the swamp, which
was covered with moss and all kinds of bushes. By working
from year to year, when it was dry enough, it was laid down
to grass, which did tolerably well for some years. After a
while, I found there must be something done ; for, where the
soil is the deepest, it would dry up in a dry time, and kill the
grass out; and, where the soil was shallow, would be too wet.
This being the case, I tried small pieces, by making the wet

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 523

dryer, and the dry part harder and heavy by carting on gravel,
and sowed it to grass. I found it did well. The piece of land
I offer for premium is a part of the above-named swamp. This
summer past, the crop was meadow-grass, rushes, and other
wild grass. The last of August, I made under drains, from
two to five feet wide, and dug into the gravel from two to
eight inches deep, and filled them with small stones, and cov-
ered with moss and old hay, and then muck and gravel. I
then ploughed and harrowed. I carted on gravel, I should
say, 125 loads, and 25 or 30 loads of stones, spread the gravel,
and harrowed it in well. I then spread 35 loads of manure to
the acre, harrowed as before, and sowed it to grass.

Crops.

The committee on crops would recommend the increase of
premium to $15, for best crop of corn.

Messrs. George R. Leonard, and L. B. Goodwin, of Norton,
having complied with the rules of the society, in their state-
ments with regard to crop of Indian corn, the committee award
to George R. Leonard the first premium for best crop per
acre, $10; to L. B. Goodwin, of Norton, the second premium
of $8.

Elisha W. Cain, of Taunton, reported to our secretary a
wheat crop ; but, as no statement, according to the rules of the
society, has been submitted, your committee do not feel author-
ized to allow any premium.

Nathan Durfee, Chairman.

George R. Leonardos Statement.

The following statement is submitted in relation to the
manner in which was obtained 103|-| bushels of corn on one
acre of land. The land was sward, and was ploughed the last
of May, 1851. I spread about four cords of manure before
ploughing, and ploughed about nine inches deep ; then spread
about four cords more of manure ; then harrowed and bushed
thoroughly ; marked in drills three feet one way, and planted

524 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

four corns in a hill, about 20 inches apart, the other way;
planted to yellow corn, about the 1st of June; cultivated, and
hoed twice. The manure was made from two horses and two
hogs. The corn was harvested Oct. 29. The above estimate
per acre was made by selecting one square rod in three differ-
ent places, making a fair average of the lot. The three differ-
ent rods weighed as follows, viz. : one rod, 471 pounds ; one
do. 48 pounds ; one do. 50^- pounds ; and the corn was very
dry when harvested. In addition to the above, there were
about three cords of pumpkins on said acre.

VALUE OF CROP.

Pumpkins, three cords, $10 00

Corn fodder, 20 00

103|| bushels corn, at 75 cents per bushel, . . 77 86

$107 86

3 00

2 00

1 50

7 00

48 50

EXPENSE OF CROP.

Value of manure, $32 00

Ploughing said acre, .....
Drawing out and spreading manure, .
Harrowing, bushing, furrowing and planting,
Cultivating and hoeing, ....
Harvesting,

Net profit, $59 36

L. B. GoodwivCs Statement.

The acre of land on which my crop of corn was raised, was
green-sward in the spring of 1851 ; had been so for six years ;
had not been manured for seven years ; yield, about one ton
hay to the acre, a year.

VALUE OF CROP.

Fodder, worth ^ $12 50

55j-Sg bushels corn, worth 85 cents, . . . . 47 02

$59 52

EXPENSE.

Manure used in 1851 — three cords, say . . $12 00
Seed-corn " " " six quarts, ... 18

BRISTOL SOCIETY.

525

Ploughing,
Planting,
Weeding,
Cutting stalks,
Harvesting corn.
Shelling "

$1 50
1 50

3 00
1 25

4 00
1 25

24 68

Balance, $34 84

This corn was planted in drills, about three feet apart, and
in the drills about ten inches apart. The manure was spread
broad cast, and ploughed in ; it was hoed but twice. Planted
with yellow corn, known here as the " Worcester County
Corn," as I formerly procured this kind of corn from Mendon,
in that county; planted a part the 10th of May, and the
remainder the 15th. This corn has all been shelled and
measured since the first of December. It measures 55^^
bushels.

Butter, Cheese, Bread, and Honey.

The committee to whom was assigned the duty of awarding
the premiums of the society on butter, cheese, bread, and
honey, have attended to that duty, and report the following
premiums, viz. : —

Butter.
William W. Blanding, of Rehoboth, for 25 pounds,

first premium, of . . . . . . . $8 00

Abiah Bliss, of Rehoboth, 46 pounds, second do., . 6 00
Luther L. Short, of Taunton, 25 pounds, third do., . 5 00
C. Washburn, Taunton, 25 pounds or more, fourth do. 4 00

White Bread.
Of white bread, there were twenty entries, most of which
was very fair ; and the committee award to—

Mrs. J. W. D. Hall, of Taunton, for two loaves, the

first premium of $1 25

Mrs. J. A. Hall, of Raynham, for one loaf, second do., 1 00

526 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

Mrs. Amanda Bliss, of Rehoboth, for one loaf of milk

bread, third premium of .
Mrs. Lawson, of Taunton, one loaf, fourth do., .
Mrs. E. B. Hall, of Raynham, one loaf, fifth do.,

Broivn Bread.
Mrs. J. A. Hall, of Raynham, one loaf, first premium,
Mrs. Jason Morse, of Taunton, one loaf, second do., .
Mrs. Rebecca Bliss, of Rehoboth, one loaf, third do.,

Honey.

Leonidas Dean, of Raynham, two boxes and one

large platter, first premium, . . . . . 7 00

Simeon Green, of Mansfield, 29 pounds, second do., 5 00

W. W. Lothrop, of Taunton, one box, third do., . 3 00

In closing the report, it is thought that a hint to butter
makers would not be out of place. Out of twenty lots entered
for premium, although there was manifestly an advance on
former years, many of them were either too fresh or too salt ;
so much so as entirely to forbid their claims to a premium.

Of cheese, there were three lots entered ; and the third pre-
mium of $4 would have been awarded Enoch King, of Rayn-
ham, had he have complied with the regulations of the society.

For the committee,

William Reed, Chairman.

Agricultural Products.

[The committee on agricultural products reported about
fifty small premiums on squashes, pumpkins, potatoes, cran-
berries, &c.]

Fruits and Flowers.

The committee on fruits and flowers, in discharge of the
duties assigned them, have awarded the following premiums : —

BRISTOL SOCIETY.

527

Pears.

W. P. Jenney, Fairhaven, for 75 varieties, first prem. of
H. H. Crapo, New Bedford, 70 " second "
Jesse Hartshorn, Taunton, 22 " third "
Laban Eddy, Taunton, 7 " fourth " .

Gratuities for Specimens of Pears, to —

Barzillai Walker, Taunton, .

Charles Babbit, " (St. Michael's)

B. F. Williams,

William A. Crocker, ....
Daniel H. Leonard, Seekonk

Peaches.

D. H. Leonard, Seekonk, for 10 varieties, a premium of

Apples.

Jacob Dean, Mansfield, for 75 varieties, first prem. of

John A. Hall, Raynham, 50 " second "

Jos. T. Leonard, " 32 « third "

D. H. Leonard, Seekonk, 21 " fourth "

Gratuities Recommended to —

H. G. Ricketson, New Bedford,
J. A. Easterbrook, Taunton,
B. F. Williams, "

Benjamin Seaver, "
G. W. Strange, Dighton,
Seneca Lincoln, Norton,

Quinces [gratuities.)

L. B. Church, Taunton,

Elbridge G. Dean, « .

Mrs. George West, "

Homer N. Daggett, Attleborough,

Jacob H. Thomas, Raynham,

Foreign Grapes.

N. Durfee, Fall River, 8 varieties, first premium, .

James Arnold, New Bedford, 7 " second "
A gratuity to Dr. A. Baylies, Taunton, for Black Ham-
burgs, .........

3 00

528

BRISTOL SOCIETY.

$2 00

. 4 GO

. 2 00

•

. 1 00

. 2 00

. 1 50

•

. 1 00

. 2 00

. 1 50

. 1 00

V1T r»l

. 1 00

Water- Melons.
W. P. Jenncy, Fairhaven, ....

Baskets of Fruit.
"W. K. Bullock, Rehoboth, . first premium of
Thomas A. Borden, Attleborough, second "
A gratuity to Nathan Pratt, Taunton, .

Bouquets.
Miss Mary N. Mason, Taunton, first premium,
Dr. A. Wood, Dighton, . second "
Dr. N. Durfee, Fall River, . third " .

Cut Flowers.
James Arnold, New Bedford, first premium, .
Henry H. Crapo, " " second "

W. P. Jenney, Fan-haven, third "
Gratuity — ^John Guthrie, of Taunton, .

Your committee also found on exhibition a very choice col-
lection of apples, from the nursery of Silas Moore, of Cranston,
R. 1., which contributed much to the beauty of the table. For
the interest shown in the welfare and success of our society, as
well as the beauty and perfection of the fruit presented, your
committee recommend that a gratuity of ^1 be awarded him.
From the same source your committee also found displayed
two bouquets, beautifully arranged, from the finest specimens
of the Dahial ; and they also recommend that a gratuity of $1
be given Mr. Moore for these.

Your committee are happy to report, that they have found
the entries of fruits and flowers the present year largely to ex-
ceed in number and variety those of former years. The dis-
play of fruits, particularly of the apple and pear, we are confi-
dent will very favorably compare with that of any of our sister
societies in the State. For perfection, and as exhibiting care-
ful selection and culture, we have never seen an exhibition
which would equal it.

The exhibition of peaches was comparatively meagre. This
was undoubtedly owing to the lateness of the season, — this
fruit for the most part maturing some weeks earlier than the
time of holding our annual meeting. Your committee, not
thinking that any of the specimens of this fruit merited the

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 529

premiums offered, have awarded but one premium, as before re-
ported.

Your committee were also directed to award a premium for
the finest display of the plum and the musk-melon. Of the
former there was but one specimen exhibited, which, in the
opinion of the committee, did not merit a premium ; and of the
latter no specimen was exhibited.

The committee were also authorized to award a premium of
$6 for the best display of the cultivated native grape. There
were but few specimens of this fruit presented, and these were
all so imperfect and inferior that the committee did not deem
it proper to assign to either the reward offered.

Your committee, thinking that the interests of the society
would be thus promoted, have distributed, in gratuities before
reported, the premiums offered upon those articles of which
there have been no specimens presented, or where the speci-
mens presented have been so inferior, as, in the opinion of the
committee, not to merit any premium.

They also recommend that hereafter the premiums at pre-
sent offered for displays of peaches, plums, and the musk-melon,
be discontinued, and that a list of premiums be offered for dis-
plays of the quince ; and that the sums of money now offered
for these fruits be applied to the premiums on the quince, and
to increasing the number and amount of premiums offered
upon apples and pears.

Respectfully submitted.

B. Sanford, Chairman.

Ornamental and Forest Trees.

The use and cultivation of trees for ornament is not an in-
troduction of modern times. The garden in the east was fur-
nished with every kind of tree which was " pleasant to the
sight," or good for food. There flourished in luxuriance and
beauty the

" Cedar, and pine, and fir, and branching palm;"

and on every hill-side and in every valley waved —

" Groves, whose rich trees wept odorous gums and balms,"

fe3d BRISTOL SOCIETY.

beneath whose shade our first parents sat in conversation pure,
or leaned in graceful attitudes to rest. In ancient times, the
tree was the chosen emblem of life, knowledge, beauty, con-
stancy, fruitfulness, patience, wisdom, power and victory.

The palm, the cedar, the fig, the almond, and the olive tree,
were all deemed worthy of dignity and honor ; while the " pine,
the fir tree, and the box together," were chosen to beautify and
adorn the place of the sanctuary.

And what more worthy object of admiration can be found
among nature's loveliest productions than a perfect and well-
formed tree, — whether we behold it as a single cone, with its
exact and symmetrical form, and neat, trim outline, or as
spreading its wide and umbrageous head in graceful lines and
sweeping curves, or bending its boughs to the earth, laden with
bright and golden fruit, — whether standing by itself in solitary
beauty, in a fertile, grassy plain, or grouped in an affectionate
and harmonious cluster with artistic grace and skill ; or ranged
in more formal order, by the dusty road-side, refreshing the
weary traveller on his sultry way, at once with nourishment
and shade, — whether budding forth with the fresh and joyous
green of spring, or decked in the rich and gorgeous robes of
autumn, or clad with the icy vestments of winter, glittering in
the bright sun with the matchless splendor of a diamond mine,
— everywhere, in all places, and under every aspect, a perfect,
well-formed tree, is an object of beauty and admiration.

" The sayling pine, the cedar proud and tall,

The vine-propp elm, the poplar never dry,

The builder oake, sole king of forests all.

The aspine, good for staves, the cypress funerale,"

have all received the homage of a poet's pen, while the painter's
pencil has vied with the sculptor's chisel in embodying and
preserving their various forms of beauty and grace. The cul-
tivation of ornamental trees is the cause and the effect, the
antecedent and the consequent, the sign and the produce, of a
love for the beautiful and true in nature. It is justly entitled
to be classed with the fine arts, and ever tends to elevate,
humanize, and refine mankind. What traveller, as he passed
some humble, modest, neat-looking cottage, with its well-
trimmed grass-plot and overhanging elm, has not felt that there
must be the abode of refinement, contentment, and peace ?

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 531

Time was when the setting of shade trees by the road-side
was forbidden by law, lest, in case of fires in a village, they
should be the means of spreading the conflagration from dwell-
ing to dwelling ; but, thanks to a wiser and more far-seeing
legislation, their cultivation is now encouraged by statute, and
their wilful and malicious destruction is visited with a heavy
penalty.

A wealthy inhabitant of Middlesex recently left a legacy of
several hundred dollars for planting trees by the road-side.
What future wayfarer, as he seeks rest and shelter under their
welcome shade, will not pronounce blessings on this benefac-
tor of his race ? A public-spirited member of our own society*
has, directly or indirectly, caused several hundred trees to be
transplanted along the highways, within a few years past ;
and already his example is imitated by many who were first
inclined to oppose or ridicule. Let us, then, encourage the
cultivation of ornamental trees, remembering that, in their hap-
py influences upon our posterity, they will bear fruit, " some
thirty, some sixty, and some an hundred fold."

This society have offered, for the greatest number of orna-
mental trees of the best kind, and in the most thrifty condition,
planted by the road-side, a premium of $10 ; for the second
best, $5. The committee award to Lucas Daggett of Attle-
borough, being the only competitor, a premium of |5.

The cultivation of forest trees also demands our attention,
and is worthy of our serious efforts. Modern civilization is
fast sweeping away the beauty and pride of those noble forests
which waved so majestically over our land when the Mayflower
touched our New England shores. The murderous axe of the
Yankee farmer has made wanton havoc of our noble pines
and stately oaks ; the work of destruction is still going on ;
and necessity will soon compel us to adopt some energetic
measures for the preservation of so valuable a production of
our soil.

The beauty and usefulness of the forest are each sufficient
reasons for cherishing and preserving it.

How much more pleasant to the eye is a hill-side, with its
green trees and splendid foliage, to a naked, barren summit,

* Mr. Samuel Carpenter, of Attleborough.

532 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

stript of nature's own protection ? Who would exchange the
tree-clad hills of Berkshire for the uninteresting wastes of Nan-
tucket ? The lover of nature, too, finds unwearied delight in
gazing upon our autumnal forests. Their exceeding variety
and brilliancy have been the subject of enthusiastic admiration
of every English traveller. The gold and green of the Ameri-
can elm, the high orange hues of the sugar maple, the gold
and scarlet of the swamp maple, the unassuming buffs and
yellows of the birches, the full bright yellows and scarlets of
the oaks, the rich browns of the bass-wood and hickories, the
soft olive tints of the ash, the ochry hues of the larch, the deep
black green of the firs and other evergreens ; all these inter-
mingled and combined with brilliant tints of crimson, purple,
and gold, in a thousand forms and shades, ever changing to the
eye of the traveller, like nature's great kaleidoscope, present a
sight which in gorgeous beauty outrivals the most brilliant
conceptions of imperial magnificence.

Well, then, does the American forest deserve preservation
for its magnificent beauty alone. But we are a utilitarian
people, and require some more powerful stimulus to stay the
devastation of our forest trees, which our want of foresight is
so rapidly producing. The uses of the forest are so manifold
*^and multiform, that our economical interest requires us to
adopt some means for its preservation.

We have time to enumerate only a few of the prominent
points of value and necessity. Forests enrich our soil by their
annual deposits of leaves and branches. Their roots and root-
lets permeate the ground, opening it to the genial influences of
the sun, rain and air, while on the hill-sides they bind it to the
earth, preserving it from wearing and washing away under
heavy rains and snows. They equalize the temperature of the
climate ; protecting us, our flocks and herds, from the violence
of the winds and the scorching rays of an American sun.
They furnish us with building material for our dwellings, our
shops and stores, our ships and steamers ; for our cabin'et ware,
carriages, wooden ware, fences, and agricultural implements.
To say nothing of the cultivation of certain varieties of trees
for the value of their barks and nuts, the sugar maple recom-
mends itself to us as a source of easy and enormous profit. It
has been stated, that a single town in our Commonwealth has

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 533

produced in a year over a hundred thousand pounds of sugar
from this tree ; and the annual production of a single New
England State, containing not one-third the population of our
own, has exceeded five million pounds, which, at the average
price at retail among us, amounts to a sum nearly sufficient to
defray the annual expenses of the whole judiciary, executive,
and legislative departments of our own Commonwealth.

Last, but not least, we would mention the forest as a source
of fuel. To pass over the thousands of cords consumed annu-
ally by the various railroads and steamboats, if the average
supply of fuel for each family in the Commonwealth were but
ten cords a year, and there be a hundred and fifty thousand
families in the State, our annual fuel for family use alone is
purchased at a cost of over $7,000,000. And this does not
include the vast quantities used on raikoads and for manufac-
turing purposes, nor the thousands of tons of coal which are
annually imported and sold within our borders.

We have not time to pursue this investigation further ;
but enough has been given to demonstrate that the value of
our forest trees is far beyond our ordinary estimation or con-
ception.

In view of these facts, and because of the rapidity with
which our woods are disappearing, this society has offered
premiums for the most extensive forest of any sort of trees,
suitable for fuel or timber, and in the most flourishing condi-
tion in September, 1851.

The committee are gratified to see the spirit beginning to
be awakened among our farmers on this subject, and that the
prejudice once existing against planting trees is fast disap-
pearing.

Many have commenced planting pines on barren, worn out
land ; and already their fields have advanced more than five
hundred per cent, in value.

The committee have examined several handsome fields of
pine in this part of the county, and award the first premium
of $25 dollars to John B. Newcomb, of Norton.

The second, of $20, they award to J. Calvin Crane, of
Norton. The committee also award the same premium of
$20 to Samuel Carpenter, of Attleborough, for the greatest
number of forest trees to the acre.

534 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

The third, of $15, to Darwin Deane, of Mansfield.

The committee have also viewed with great pleasure the
pine woods of Henry T. Gilmore, of Raynham, and James
Smith, of Norton ; but as they are not strictly within the
regulations prescribed by this society for competitors for pre-
miums, your committee cannot award them a premium, but
deem them equitably entitled to a gratuity of $10 each.

The present regulations require, that the number of trees
shall be not less than a thousand to the acre. At this rate, the
trees must stand not far from six feet apart. Believing that
they can be raised more profitably, if more thinly planted,
your committee recommend that the future premiums shall be
offered to the person setting out the greatest number of acres
after this date, to be not less than three hundred to the acre.

Edmund H. Bennett, Chairman.

Heavy Manufactures.

[The committee on heavy manufactures awarded about fifty
premiums for different articles.]

Domestic Manufactures.

The committee on domestic manufactures have great sat-
isfaction in announcing, that 164 articles, principally from the
never-tiring hands of the gentler sex, were entered this year for
exhibition, all of which gave evidence of the ingenuity, skill,
and industry, which are characteristic of all New England
ladies. The committee would have been happy to have clas-
sified, described, and mentioned in detail, these articles, many
of them eminently worthy of particular notice ; but the time
would not allow us to perform this pleasant task, and we are
obliged to submit the report in its present brief form, merely
noticing a few articles of prominent interest.

The committee avail themselves of this opportunity to ac-
knowledge their great indebtedness to those ladies who kindly

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 585

consented to assist in the examination of the articles offered
for premium, and to whose better taste and judgment they
were happy to defer in all cases, especially when the articles
in question were the products of the fairy-fingers of their own
sex.

[This committee awarded over one hundred premiums.]

Fat Cattle, Horses, and Steers.

The committee on fat cattle, horses, and steers, have, with
all the care which their limited time and the situation of the
animals would allow, examined ' the several animals which
were presented to them for premiums, and now submit to the
society the result of their deliberations.

The committee regret that the number of fat cattle was less
than upon some former occasions. But it is not remarkable
that some one of the numerous departments in which the ex-
hibition is divided should occasionally suffer a diminution,
while the general prosperity of the society is rapidly increasing,
and almost every other department exhibits a remarkable in-
crease. Having maturely considered the claims of the several
contributors, the committee have awarded the following pre-
miums, viz. : on

Fat Oxen.
For the best ox —

1. P. E. Williams, for the nigh-ox of his pair, . $10 00

2. Elbridge G. Hunt, off-ox,

3. James Austen, nigh-ox, ....

4. Daniel Wilbur, " . . . .

5. P. E. WilUams, off-ox, ....

8 00
6 00
5 00
4 00

The committee regret that candor hath compelled them to
mention the falling off from the last exhibition in steers, both
in number and quality, is greater than that of fat cattle. We
are aware that other pursuits, manufacturing, mercantile, nav-
igating, and mechanic, seem to promise greater pecuniary
returns than agricultural ; and to this cause must be imparted
the inattention to the oldest, the most healthful, the most hon-
orable of all occupations, — the cultivation of the earth. And,

536 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

while we rejoice at the remarkable advance of our manufac-
tures and the high eminence which they have attained in our
exhibitions, we take no pleasure in seeing them outstrip the
products of the farm. We would gladly see the latter equal,
if not surpass, the former ; but this we desire to see accom-
plished, not by diminishing the excellence of the manufactures,
but by improving and perfecting the cultivation of the earth.

From the exhibition now made by one branch of agriculture,
we derive great assurance that other and more important
branches will be stimulated to greater efforts, and of course to
greater advancement. However brilliant the exhibition of
mechanic and manufacturing skill and taste, the show made
by the horticultural department is not a whit behind it ; and,
were the subject referred to our committee, we are by no
means sure that we should not be tempted to prefer the latter.
And we hope it will not be long before the farmer, in the
raising of crops of grain, crops of hay, and oxen, cows, and
steers, will surpass the products of all other branches of indus-
try. This hope is greatly strengthened from the fact that in
no one branch of industry has so great improvement been
made, as in the training and management of teams ; and,
from the high excellence of the draft animals and the extraor-
dinary skill of the ploughmen, we necessarily infer that in-
creased improvement will extend to every other branch of
agricultural industry. Good oxen and good horses cannot be
produced without good steers and good colts. And we trust
that another anniversary will not occur when premiums are
returned to the treasury because no proper animals are offered
to take them.

Of two-year old steers, only two pairs were offered, and the
committee were of opinion that only one of these was entitled
to a premium, and they accordingly award to Henry Dean a
premium of $4.

Of yearling steers, only one pair was offered ; and to their
owner, A. B. Codding, we award a premium of $3. •

From the meagre catalogue of neat cattle, we turn with
great satisfaction to that noble animal, the horse. Quite
recently the attention of the farmers of this county has been
excited and directed to the rearing of colts and the improve-
ment of the breed of horses. Until one year ago, no exhibi-

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 537

tion of animals of this kind worthy of notice was ever made.
At our last anniversary, twenty fine animals were entered.
On the present occasion, there has been an increase in number
and quality.

Horses.

For the best horse over three years old —

1. C. Whitman, $8 00

2. A. J. Pease, 6 00

For the best horse, not over three years old —

1. Elkanah Pierce, 6 00

2. Henry H. Crane, 5 00

3. Benjamin W. MiUer, 4 00

For the best horse, not over two years old —

1. E. W. Cain, 5 00

2. E. Williams, 4 00

3. J. Brayton, 3 00

The committee also, in consideration of the number and
excellence of the animals presented, and the paucity and
smallness of the premiums offered, ask leave to recommend
to the society to grant the following gratuities, viz. : —

Marcus M. Rounseville, for a beautiful little bay

mare, just over three years old,
Jonathan Barney, .....

Lloyd Wilbor,

J. B. Chase, for colt three months old,
Billings Waldron, for colt four months old,
Josiah Woodward, " " ' "

Ambrose W. Hathaway, for colt one year old,

All which is respectfully submitted.

Marcus Morton, Chairman,

$3 00
2 00
2 00
1 00
1 00
1 00
1 00

Breeding Stock.

The committee to whom was assigned the duty of examin-
ing breeding stock and awarding premiums thereon, beg leave
to submit the following report : —
68

$15

5 00

538 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

Bulls.

1. J. H. W. Page, New Bedford,

2. Zenas B. Carpenter, Attleborough,

3. G. W. Davis, Taunton, .

4. Job Dean, Raynham,

Bull Calves.

1. Ezra P. Short, Swanzey,

2. Micah H. Ruggles, Fall River,

3. James Dickerman, Easton, .

They would also recommend the allowance of the following
gratuities : —

Asa Shove, Berkley, fine bull calf, . . . . $1 00
Timothy G. Coffin, New Bedford, do., . . . 1 00

Had the latter animal been entered, he would have taken the
third premium.

Cows.

1. Thomas Murphy, Taunton,

2. Seth D. Hall, Raynham,

3. Soranus Hall,

4. Hiram Waldron, Taunton,

Heifers.

1. Elisha Hodges, Mansfield,

2. Ebenezer ^"^Jelford, Taunton,

3. Thomas Murphy, .

4. Micah H. Ruggles, Fall River,

They would also recommend the allowance of the following
gratuities : —

Asa Shove, Berkley, for a fine heifer and calf, . . $2 00
Barnum Hall, Raynham, for a pair of fine twin heifers,. 2 00
Preston M. George, Attleborough, for a fine heifer,

sired by the county bull, » 1 00

Leonidas Dean, Raynham, for a fine heifer; Micah
H. Ruggles, Fall River, do. ; Jonathan Richmond,
Taunton, do. ; Billings Waldron, Dighton, do. ;
George Padelford, Taunton, do. ; Leonard Hodges,
Norton, do. ; Warren Lincoln, Raynham, do. ; each 1 00

12 00

10 00

8 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

2 00

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 539

Heifer Calves.

1. Joseph L. Macomber, Taunton, . . . . $5 00

2. Soranus Hall, Raynham, 3 00

3. J. S. King, Raynham 2 00

The committee express the opinion that the exhibition will
favorably compare in this department with any of the preced-
ing years, particularly in that of heifers ; hence the liberal
recommendation to allow gratuities to that kind of stock.
There were so many fine ones presented that the committee
were somewhat embarrassed in making a just discrimination.
"While they feel unwilling to make any invidious distinction
among the many fine animals offered for exhibition, they would
call the attention of the society -to a fine cow, four years old
last May, of the pure Durham breed, presented by Mr. Thomas
Murphy, of Taunton, which gave two hundred quarts of milk
during ten days of June, from which was made thirty pounds
of butter. Also, during the same time in September, she gave
a hundred and fifty quarts, from which was made twenty-two
and a half pounds of butter. This class of stock, however, on
a whole, would not compare with either of the others in num-
bers or quality ; but the committee express the opinion, that,
if the fine heifers offered are retained within the county, coming
years will amply redeem any deficiency that may exist this
year. And they would further remark, that the many fine
bulls and bull-calves exhibited, afford an almost sure guarantee,
that, in breeding stock, this society, if it does not now, will
soon equal in that respect any of her sister associations in this
Commonwealth.

All which is respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

C. A. Church, Chairman.

Sheep and Swine.

Sheep.

The whole number of sheep entered and presented for pre-
mium was twenty-two, viz. : eighteen ewes and four bucks.

540 BRISTOL SOCIETY.

The quality of the animals was very satisfactory, and your
committee had no difficulty in arriving at the result of their
opinions as to their relative merit. They award premiums as
follows, viz. : —

Bucks.

1. G. Lawton, Freetown, pure South Down, . . $4 00

2. J. E. King, Taunton, half Leicester and half native, 3 00

3. E. J. Sandford, Rehoboth, half Beckwith and half

native, 2 00

Ewes.

1. Job G. Lawton, Freetown, six ewes, . . . 4 00

2. Jacob Shepherd, Norton, « « . . . 3 00

3. E. J. Sandford, Rehoboth, " " . . . 2 00
And the committee recommend a gratuity to

Laban Lincoln, of Norton, for a buck, of . . 2 00

Swine.

The whole number of swine entered was sixteen, viz. : six
boars, nine sows, and one barrow ; and they were all, either in
whole or in part, of the Suffolk breed, with the good qualities
of which your committee, from what they have seen and heard,
are very favorably impressed.

The committee award the following premiums : —

Boars.

1. Edward P. Haskell, of New Bedford, for a very

handsome Suffolk, $5 00

2. Hiram J. Hunt, Norton, for a Suffolk, . . . 4 00

3. James Dickerman, of Easton, . . . . 3 00

Sows.

1. Ephraim Allen, of Norton, Suffolk breed, . . 5 00

2. Edward P. Haskell, of New Bedford, do., . , 4 00

3. James Dickerman, of Easton, do., . . . 3 00

The committee recommend a gratuity to —

Tamerlane Burt, of Berkley, for three pigs, of . . 2 00

The committee desire to express their gratification at the
excellent quality, both of the sheep and the swine presented ;
but they regret that the number was not greater. The number

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 541

of sheep in the county is not very large ; but the committee
are of opinion that their brother farmers may profitably raise
a small number, at least, upon every farm in the county.

Swine are found upon every farm, and almost with every
family. Pork is essential to the comfort of all our people.
Considering the importance of the article, two things are mat-
ters of surprise. First, that so little regard is paid to the
qualities of the hogs that our farmers raise. Every hog is a
hog; but every hog is not a g'ooc?, or a cheap ^ ox o. profitable
hog. Some cost double to keep that others do. As a matter
of economy, it is important for the farmer to get and keep the
best. The committee, from the best knowledge and informa-
tion which they have on the subject, are very favorably im-
pressed with the Suffolk breed of hogs, and recommend them
to the attention of all persons who keep swine.

The second matter of surprise is, that, from the great multi-
tude of swine in the county, so few are exhibited at the show.
Your committee express the hope, that at all future exhibitions
a much greater number of this interesting class of animals will
claim the attention of the committee who shall be honored by
the society with the duty of reporting upon their merits.

All which is respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

Philip T. Davis, Chairman.

Poultry.

The committee on poultry have attended to the duty as-
signed them, and would make the following report : —

Fowls.
For the best lot of Shanghae fowls —

1. Edwin Howard, Easton, . . . . $2 00

2. A. Briggs, Mansfield, . . . . . 1 50
8. Philander Williams, Raynham, . . . 1 GO

Turkeys.
For the best and only lot of turkeys —

B. G. Hathaway, Berkley, . . . . 2 00

542

BRISTOL SOCIETY.

Geese.

For the best lot of geese —

1. Job Dean, Raynham,

2. Ethan Howard, Raynham,

Ihicks.

$2 00
1 50

For the best lot of ducks —

1. Ethan Howard, Raynham, . . . . 2 00

2. A. Briggs, Mansfield, 1 50

Your committee would also recommend the following gra-
tuities : —

A. Briggs, Mansfield,

N. R. Richardson, Berkley, eight black Spanish fowls,
F. M. Hall, Taunton, six Shanghae fowls,
Eli K. Robins, Taunton, four coops of do.,
Lewis L. Reed, Seekonk, five " Plymouth Rocks,"
D. A. Weston, Taunton, two varieties,
Zopher Dickerman, Easton, four Bantams,

$1 00
1 00
75
75
50
50
50

Ploughing with Oxen.

The committee on ploughing with oxen submit the follow-
ing report:

The whole number of teams which were entered for the
premiums was fifteen. Although, in the opinion of the com-
mittee, the ploughing was throughout, more nearly of uniform
excellence than it has been, yet upon the principles adopted by
the committee, and announced to the contestants at the open-
ing, we have decided with entire unanimity upon the following
list of premiums : —

1. John A. HaU, of Raynham, $8 00

2. Eiisha Williams, of Taunton, 7 00

3. John B. Newcomb, of Norton, . . . . 6 00

4. Seneca Lincoln, « « .... 5 00

5. Samuel A. Dean, of Taunton, . . . . 4 00

6. Jacob Dean, of Mansfield, 3 00

7. Samuel W. Robinson, of Taunton, . . . 2 00

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 543

Your committee also recommend a gratuity of $1 for excel-
lent ploughing, to Jonathan Richmond, of Taunton.

Nathaniel Morton, Chairman.

Ploughing with Horses and Steers.

The committee on ploughing with horses and steers, have
attended to the duty assigned them, and are unanimous in the
following report, viz. : —

With two Yokes of Steers, or with one Yoke and Horse, ivith

Driver.

1. Elijah E. Williams, Raynham, . . . . $5 00

2. Henry Southworth, Taunton, . . , . 4 00

3. Wilber & King, Raynham, . . . . 3 00

4. Carmi Andrews, " .... 2 00

Gratuities.

Woodward & Williams, Taunton, gratuity of . . 2 00

William L. Woodward, » "... 2 00

Artemas Leonard, Raynham, 1 00

With one Pair of Horses — no Driver.

1. H. M. Barrows, Norton, 5 00

2. David Arnold, » . . . . . , 4 00

3. Henry N. Harvey, Taunton, . . . . 3 00

4. Samuel W. Robinson « .... 2 00

Gratuities.

J. H. Fairbanks, Taunton, gratuity of ... . 2 00

H. C. Perry, Norton, " ... 2 00

Andrew H. Hall, Taunton, " ... 1 00

Woodward & Williams, » ... 1 00

Respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

F. B. Dean, Chairman.

Working Cattle.

The committee on working cattle have attended to their
duties, and beg leave to make the following report ; —

544

BRISTOL SOCIETY.

There were seventeen pairs of oxen and four pairs of steers
entered ; but one pair of oxen was withdrawn during the trial,
and but sLxteen pairs competed for the premiums. The load
drawn by the oxen weighed six thousand three hundred pounds,
and that by the steers, four thousand five hundred pounds, in-
cluding the weight of the wagons. These loads were by no
means heavy, either for steers or oxen ; and the ease with which
many of the teams drew, turned, and backed the loads, was
admirable.

It is not easy to determine the exact relative merit of so
many teams, especially where there was often so little real
difference, and particularly where the dissimilar points of ex-
cellence rendered comparison very difficult. And, even then,
the different value set on some points by good judges may
justify us if we differ in opinion from many of that large num-
ber of persons that saw the work, and even if we did not
wholly agree among ourselves.

We have awarded the prizes offered by the society, as fol-
lows : —

For Working" Oxen.

1. Leonard L. Short, Taunton,

2. Warren Adams, Norton,

$10 00
8 00
7
6
5
4
3
2
1

00
00
00
00
00
00
00

3. John B. Newcomb, «

4. Daniel Wilbur, Somerset,

5. Barnum Hall, Raynham,

6. Benjamin Sweet, Norton,

7. Henry D. Deane, Mansfield,

8. Stillman Wilbur, Raynham,

9. Samuel W. Robinson, Taunton,

And we recommend a gratuity of $1, for an excellent pair
of oxen, to Capt. Samuel Cain, Taunton.

For Steers.

1. William L. Woodward, Taunton, . . . $4 00

2. Otis R. King, Raynham, 3 00

3. Elijah E. Williams, Taunton, . . . . 2 00

4. Henry Southworth " .... 1 00

There were two pairs of oxen on the ground, of very great
strength ; and one pair of them was far the largest, and, for
some purposes, the finest of all. This pair belonged to William

BRISTOL SOCIETY. 545

L. Slade, of Somerset. They weighed three thousand seven
hundred pounds, and were of fine blood and figure, and show
the qualities that may be produced by careful breeding.
Another fine pair belonged to Laban M. Wheaton, of Norton,
very large and strong, and ornaments to the ground. Neither
of these pairs of oxen could be very well complimented by
prizes according to their deserts, in the scheme proposed for
our guidance.

Your committee are not certain that some prizes should not
be offered for good drivers, as well as for good driven oxen. If
so, some of those who competed would certainly succeed ; for
work was effected by them quietly, without noise or the use of
the whip, and in as handsome a manner as it was possible to
exhibit. The labor of oxen is one of the fundamental reliances
of the community, and must be improved with great care. It
has been discussed from the time when Virgil gave directions
how to break steers, dum nobilis cetas, to those who in these
days have gone deeply into the mysteries of breeding. But
our oxen are yet capable of very great improvement. They
are in most cases bought out of droves from the country ; and,
though they show great skill in training and excellent keeping,
they rarely exhibit'what we should like to see, — the product of
skilful breeding. We expect before many years to see our
farmers exhibiting cattle of faultless forms and perfect growth,
exactly fit for the yoke, and of their own raising.

For the committee,

C. B. Farnsworth, Chairman.
69

546 BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

BARNSTABLE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.'

The annual cattle show and fair by this society, was held
at Sandwich, on Wednesday, 13th day of October last.

The number of cattle exhibited was less than might have
been shown by the farmers of the county ; which may, in part,
be accounted for by the place of the exhibition being on the ex-
treme border of the county, and from a heavy rain on the
morning of the exhibition, which prevented the farmers of the
neighboring towns from driving their stock to the place of
exhibition.

The specimens of fruit on exhibition, although not large,
were of a superior quality, and would do credit to any kindred
association in the Commonwealth.

The exhibition of fancy articles displayed much good taste,
and was highly creditable to the fair contributors.

The Address before the society was delivered by Simon
Brown, Esq., of Concord.

Farms, Grain, Crops, &c.

The executive committee being the committee to award pre-
miums on the management of farms, manure, improving wet
meadow or swamp lands, irrigation or flowing, and grain or
field crops, have attended to the duty assigned to them, and
have awarded the following premiums :

To Simeon Dillingham, of Sandwich, for hay from land
heretofore unproductive, brought in by cultivation, the first
premium of $5.

Simeon Dillingham^s Statement.

The hay grown upon land heretofore unproductive, to which
I invite the attention of the committee, was grown upon one

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY. 547

acre and ninety-seven rods of land, a part of a lot containing
eight acres, which previous to 1848 did not afford sufficient
pasturage for two head of cattle more than three months. In
the fall of 1848, I cut off the bushes with which about one-
half was covered, and dug the rocks from the surface ; the fol-
lowing spring applied a dressing of manure, about sixteen
loads to the acre, and ploughed to the depth of six inches, and
in the fall harvested twenty-five bushels of corn to the acre.
In the spring of 1850 cleared off the stubble and harrowed it
well (did not plough) and sowed one-half with barley and the
remainder with oats ; after sowing the grain, applied ten loads
of manure. In 1851 I sold the grass to T. Holmes, of North
Sandwich, who cut four and a half tons of hay, clover and
timothy. In September I cut from one-half of it three-fourths
of a ton, by estimation, of second growth; in November dress-
ed again that part which was mowed twice, with stable ma-
nure, say six loads to the acre. The past season I cut three
tons of hay of good quality.

I ought to add that this piece of ground had not been broken
up for forty-five years, to my knowledge, and how much longer
am not able to say. It is what is called high land, and the
soil is principally a clayey loam.

Sandwich, Oct. 13, 1852.

To Samuel Childs, of Barnstable, for improving
wet meadow or swamp lands, we have awarded
the first premium of . . . . $6 00

To Melatiah Bourne, of Sandwich, for the best
conducted experiment of Indian corn, on not
less than one acre of land, the first premium of 6 00

To Prince Tupper, of Sandwich, second premium

of ..... . 4 00

To J. B. Dillingham, of Sandwich, for best con-
ducted experiments on the cultivation of rye, on
one acre of land, first premium, . . 4 00

To Naaman Dillingham, of Sandwich, for the best
experiments in the cultivation of barley, first
premium, . . . . . 2 00

548

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

To Samuel ChOds, of Barnstable, the first premium
on oats, . . . . . $3 00

To James B. Crocker, of Yarmouth, for the best
conducted experiment on the cultivation of white
beans, the first premium of . . . 3 00

Naaman Dillingham,

Chairman of Executive Committee.
Barnstable, Nov. 26, 1852.

Melatiah Sourness Statement.

I present, for the committee's consideration, the following
statement of the yield of an acre of land belonging to my
farm, situated in the precincts of the village of Sandwich.

The land consists of a light, friable loam ; it was planted
with corn last year, and is usually kept in good condition. In
April last, thirty loads of barn-manure were spread on the
land, and it was ploughed to the depth of eight inches. The
expense of cultivation and profit received may be thus stated :

To 30 loads of barn-manure,

To carting and spreading.

To ploughing and harrowing,

To planting and seed,

To hoeing four times,

To cutting and harvesting.

To interest on land at $100 per acre,

$30 00
3 00
3 50
1 50
6 00
6 00
6 00

$56 00

CREDIT.

By 70 bushels 3 pecks of merchantable corn,

at $1 per bushel, . . . ' $70 75

By fodder, . . . . 10 00

By pumpkins, . . . . 5 00

By one-quarter manure back, . . 7 50

93 25

Net gain, .

Sandwich, Nov. 15, 1852.

$37 25

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY. 549

Naaman Dillingham^s Statement.
The barley which I offer for premium was raised on ninety
rods of land. The soil a light loam. It was planted with
corn and potatoes last year, with a good dressing of barnyard
manure. Last spring spread five loads of compost manure,
and ploughed in. Sowed one and a half bushels of barley on
the 23d day of April, and harrowed it in. The product was
twenty bushels. It is a good substitute for corn, in fattening
poultry and pork.

To interest on land and taxes.

To ploughing, sowing and harvesting.

To four-fiths of five loads of manure.

To mowing, raking and threshing,

To one and a half bushels of barley, at 80 cents,

$17 70

CREDIT.

By twenty bushels of barley, at 80 cents, . $16 00

By three-fourths ton for packing glass, at eight

dollars per ton, . . . . . 6 00

Sandwich, Oct. 13, 1852.

$22 00

James B. Crocker^s Statement.
The beans on which I claim a premium were grown on a
piece of land measuring seventy-one rods. The soil is a light
loam, and the land valued at fifty dollars. Corn was raised on
the land last year. Early in June last, six loads of manure
was spread on the land, and ploughed in and harrowed. The
beans were then planted in hills fifteen inches apart. They
received only one hoeing ; at the time of the second, they were
so thick as to prevent hoeing without injury to the vines. The
beaiiv, „^:e harvested in the latter part of September, and the
product was twelve bushels in measure, weighing sixty-five
pounds to the bushel, making 13 bushels at 60 pounds to the
bushel.

550

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

Value of twelve bushels at $2 25,

EXPENSES.

Ploughing and harrowing,
Six loads of manure at 50 cts..
One bushel of beans for seed,
Planting, $2; hoeing, $2 50,
Harvesting and threshing.
Winnowing and measuring,
Interest and taxes,

Net profit,

Yarmouth, Oct. 9, 1852.

$27 00

$2 00

00
25
50
25

75
25

$18 00
$9 00

The undersigned, a committee to award premiums of forest
trees, and the cultivation of cranberries, have attended to the
duty assigned to them, and have awarded the following pre-
miums, viz. :
To Lewis Hamblin, of Barnstable, for the best

plantation of forest trees, the first premium of $6 00

To Alvan Gaboon, of Harwich, for the best experi-
ment in the cultivation of the cranberry, the first
premium of . . . . . 5 00

Naaman Dillingham, Chairman.
Barnstable, Nov. 26, 1852.

Lewis Hamblin's Statement.

I offer, for the consideration of the committee on the above
subject, two acres of pitch-pine trees. These trees are over
one year and not more than three years "old ; standing not less
than five hundred trees to the acre, and were all raised from
seed planted by myself. I have several acres more of larger
growth than that required by the rules of the society, which I
had planted at an earlier day. The land on which these trees
are planted, was worth at the time nothing for tillage, and
very little for pasturage. Its value could not exceed two
dollars per acre. The expense of planting is all comprehended

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY. 551

in mere labor ; and, except the value of land, the present plan-
tation is wholly the result of labor. I gather the seed of the
pine from trees in October, extracting it from the cones at
leisure moments during the winter, and plant in April.

My mode of planting has been to make holes with a com-
mon hoe, about four feet apart, without ploughing ; the earth
being loosened for each hill about one foot square. The seeds
are then planted by hand, about half an inch deep, say two or
three seeds in a hill. Nothing is done afterwards in the way
of cultivation, but the plants take care of themselves. They
attain only a height of about one inch the first year, and
grow more rapidly every succeeding year. According to my
experience, pines do better in a loamy soil than one that is
sandy.

Sheep and Swine.
[The committee on sheep and swine, after having glanced at
many circumstances connected with the past history of that
valuable animal, the sheep, conclude their able report as fol-
lows :]

With these "backward looking thoughts," we come to con-
sider the only question of practical significance which really
belongs to this occasion, whether the culture of sheep at this
day, in this county, is deserving of encouragement ? And to
this we certainly are inclined to reply affirmatively.

In the first place, there is a large proportional quantity of
land in our county, suited to the purposes of pasturage, and of
raising the necessary crops for winter sustenance. By far the
largest portion of the farming land of the Cape is of the char-
acter said to be best suited to the production of the best quality
of wool. It has been ascertained that fleeces grown on argil-
laceous soils, or soils on which clay enters as an ingredient, are
much softer, and better in other respects, than those raised on
calcareous soils, or those intermixed with lime in its various
states. Thus the Leicester sheep, of England, which shear
the long, combing fleece, thrive better in the northern counties,
while the South Downs, which " crop the grass that grows on
the thin soils over beds of chalk in Wiltshire, Hampshire and

552 BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

Dorsetshire," are among the short-woolled varieties. Although
our exposed situation might be favorable to the introduction
of the better breeds of sheep — unless extraordinary care were
taken in their management — it is obvious that there are con-
siderable tracts of our soil that are not unfitted to the purpose
of producing the higher grades of wool. And when we con-
sider, as we shall presently, how far even the more common
varieties of sheep may be improved by culture, it will be suf-
ficient for us to know that with proper attention, great ad-
vances may be made here in the economy of sheep culture. In
the next place we have sufficient quantities of land for the
production of the various root crops, which are employed to
advantage in winter feeding ; and of these the turnip crop may
be ranked as the chief Our most meagre soils, with small
labor, will afford large returns of this esculent. In Great
Britain immense quantities of turnips are raised on what were
formerly denominated fallow lands, and " now land in turnips
is considered as fallow." " It is not uncommon to see these
fields of three, four, and even of five hundred acres, of this
crop. These vegetables are used for the feeding of animals,
and to a great extent of sheep. Since the introduction of
the culture, bullocks and sheep have trebled in number ;" and
the present produce of wool there, may be set down as far
above fifty millions of fleeces per annum. There is no reason
why these magnificent results may not be reproduced, on a
smaller scale, among us. It is not, perhaps, to be expected that
here the more costly kinds of wool can be produced from the
fancy varieties of sheep, although we apprehend that the South
Downs would thrive well upon our soil. We should prefer
to recommend the proper and skilful management of our com-
mon races. It is undoubtedly true that very much may be
done in enhancing the value of these by judicious culture.

"Naturafists say that the ancestors of the present improved
breeds of sheep, were animals vastly different from what they
are at present. The Liberian argali, or wild sheep, 'is about
the size of the fallow deer, and yet from this unpromising orgin
have come the races of sheep found at the present day — and
this change has been produced by culture. It is said that fine
fleeced sheep have always been most abundant in the immedi-
ate neighborhood of civilized manufacturing countries, indicat-

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY. 553

ing that cultivation has produced the heavy coverings not
found in the wild state of these animals. In the barbarous
period following the decline of Rome, a cessation of manu-
factures led to the depreciation of the fleeces of that day, and
instead of those coats, famous in history, the sheep wore
wretched coverings, unfit to clothe a beggar."

From facts such as these, we educe the position, that by
culture the fleece can be improved not only in quality qut in
quantity. It has been satisfactorily demonstrated that there is
no difficulty in producing five, six or seven pounds of wool to
the fleece. There can be no doubt that one pound of wool
may be raised for every ten or twelve pounds of carcass ; and
one farmer in Vermont, we are told, has succeeded in shearing
one pound of wool to every seven or eight pounds of carcass.
The average clip of the Leicesters of England is set down at
seven or eight pounds to the fleece, and that of the South
Downs at three and a half or four pounds. These great ad-
vances upon the ordinary yields have all been attained by
judicious husbandry, the details of which would lead us into
too wide a range for this occasion.

Having said thus much in reference to one branch of our
duty, we turn to bestow a few words on the long neglected
race of swine. So much has heretofore been said, and well
said, on this fruitful topic, that it has been well nigh exhausted.
The whole vocabulary of our language has been ransacked to
find terms in which to exhibit this humble beast ; and every
possible witticism has been made at his expense. To attempt
anything in that line would be " wasteful, ridiculous excess."
We should have another chapter of " twice told tales." We
prefer to offer a few brief words, of a more serious character.

We can but repeat here our regret that so few specimens of
the swinish races should have been exhibited. Considering
that this animal is one of such general utility, whose rearino-
is thought indispensable by nearly every family in the county,
it is certainly surprising that no greater competition has been
manifested for the prizes offered by our society. It is evident
that there is very little of interest felt in the improvement of
the various species of swine. Our people trust to the chances
offered by drovers to obtain some sort of a pig, caring very
70

554 BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

slightly what may have been his "antecedents," and then they
make the most of him.

Now this is not the course required by good economy. This
animal, like that we previously considered, though descended
from a vulgar ancestry, may be greatly ennobled by careful
management. The hog, which appears to be indigenous to all
the temperate climates of the Old World, was not found upon
the western continent previous to its introduction by the Span-
iards. The black breed brought over by them has rapidly in-
creased upon the islands and main lands of our continent.
The European wild boar, the parent of the English domestic
breeds, and probably of all others extant, still exists in the
forests of Germany, where he is preserved for the purposes of
game, as deer are in English parks. He is described as a dark,
brindled, gray color, nearly black, with " longitudinal stripes
like those of the corderay pigs." He certainly must have been
the progenitor of the " Dedham Striped Pig."

In addition to the ordinary uses to which swine are devoted,
to eat, and sleep, and die, and be subjected to all sorts of fiery
torments afterwards, they have been made serviceable in other
ways in some countries.

In one part of England they are occasionally employed to
draw the plough, and it is said that on the Island of Minorca, a
hog and an ass are often seen yoked together. In this country
their ploughing, we apprehend, is done by a process of sub-
soiling entirely their own, and whatever of yoking they are
subjected to, is intended not so much to apply them to useful
purposes as to keep them from committing mischief.

Though swine have been written down as a stupid, unman-
nerly, filthy family, we are convinced they are capable of a
higher destiny. The short period of their existence is probably
the greatest cause of their defective education. Truly their life
is but a summer day. Through a few brief months they " scrawl
strange tracks in a barbarous pen," and then are sacrificed to
the appetites of those who, in feeding them for the slaughter,
have killed them with kindness.

With such means for their culture, how could we expect
much of them ? We are told, however, that a gentleman in
England actually succeeded in making a hog perform all of

BARNSTABLE SOCIETY. 555

the acts of a pointer dog with great fidelity. And yet, with
the capacities that such an achievement requires, we fear they
are ever doomed to be an oppressed and neglected race. We
have aimed to be just to their merits in this very brief and
trifling tribute, and now dismiss them kindly from our thoughts.

We award premiums as follows :
To Joseph Bodfish, of Barnstable, for the best buck,

the first premium of . . . . $3 00

To Charles H. Bursley, of Barnstable, for the next

best, second premium of . . . . 2 00

To Joseph Bodfish, of Barnstable, for the best lot

of ewes, first premium of . . . 3 00

To Isaac P. Lawrence, of Sandwich, for the next

best, second premium of . . . . 2 00

To Isaac P. Lawrence, of Sandwich, for the best

lot of weaned pigs, . . . . 5 00

To Perry Lapham, of Sandwich, for the best boar,

first premium of . . . . 3 00

For the committee,

Geo. Marston, Chairman.

556

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

Greatest No.

of pairs of
work'g oxen

from any
Toivn.

•papavAiV sranttnaji

§ 'g^^ 1 iO 1 . i 1 . 1

272 146

<;3

•paia^O sraniniajj

OlOOCOlflkrtl IWI lO

•papiBAvy srannnaj,!

-«l -^« HN mW «W

i-(OOOinOtOO ■* -^ CO CO 00 C^ 00 Oi
^i— ii— li— 1 CO I— (Cv{i— irH

r-l

•p9iaj;0 sutniraojj

ff^OOOO-^J^ CO CO b. IC 1— 1 O CO CO
4^1— li-<C^ CO i-l-^OJO{>-l

■papaBAiv sranimajj

GOCOCOIOGOCO CO COCOGO-Ht^tO(N
^ 1— 1 (?« C^ I— 1 CO r-l i-l (^J i-H -^ (M ■>* CO

•pajajBO smniraajj

C0CO-*i>tN.OJ CO ClCOt^i-iOCTt^
CTC<C<0{OJ'* 1-1 rl C»J rH krs (7i kO CO

•papiBJiv sniTiiniaja

OOOOrHOCO 00 QOt^ 1 1 1 t>. OJ
'-(OOJ'-iCOt-i O rH

CO
rji

"Si

•pajajBO snintraaJj

O-OOOr-iOjTti O CirH 100 |Tf<0
-H O 1-1 r-l CO C^ CO i-irl

C^i

•a

•papjBM.v smniaraid:

OilftCjTtCOiO CO i-('*C5C*t>. lOJ

^t>.ir5mioco 05 ■«* CO co i-i -^

•p3J9ifO stamtaajd;

CO CO ■<* CO in CO Oi COICC^O CO

•pgpaBAiv suintniaj J

g^S?S?^lS ' S222^SS5

•p3jaj50 sranitnajj

comcoco-HO in oj co oo co lo lo w

1-1 rH CO (7{ C5 CO CT rl T-i rH 1-1 CO »0 '^t*

•papiBMV smnimaaa

Oi CO l>. O O -H Ci O O CH>. W CO t>.
^COr-iCvJCOCO 1-1 CO"* rtrHCO(M

•paaajgo smniraaj j

i>.COOO»C-H Oi OOt^i-HOOCOCT
1-^ Tf rH TO C^ CO i-l CO "^ ri OJ T-i CO CO

05
CO

.H a
1^

•papaBAiv sraniuiajj

co^t^Qocioo in Ci ^ o rH CO CO in

^inrt<C^(?JO CO tl O C^< 1-1 r-l "^ CO

•*

•peia^O stnniraajj

CO^COOOXOt^ m QO^OOJOCOt^
^Wfl'OiCTlO CO r-l O (?l (?J r-l -^ CO

•p8pjBM.v scnntuiaj J

CO
CO

12s

•paiajffO snininiajj

OOCO-^OiCOCQ r-l l>OOl>.Cj-HaO
^C^t(^^CO rH CO CO '^ r-l CO Oi

o
O

•p3pjBM.v sraniraaj,!

•* in Tf CT iO CO o 00 oi 00 CO o 00

mCOC^r-iCO <?t r-l CO CO T-H r^ lO -^

•^

•paja^O sronitnaj,!

in^lrt'^OOlO CO O CO 00 CO CO O (?J
-HlOCOCOOJCO Ol r1 CO ■* J> r-l O CO

Irt

3
"3

•papiBiiV sranitnaaj;

^'^(^?oolrtCi Tj< CO CO 00 CO CO rH CO

rH OJ IC rH (?{ rH Ol r-l (N -^ T)< rH Tf CO

•pajajjO stnniutaj<i

inrfOOOirSO O COWdOCOCOOi

rH oj o cv{ <7t CO Qt I-I o< •<* m r-l n< CO

•ha

02
CH

u
o
m

i '.

1 f

»3 so O X -M Q, era CL, ra J-q J5 O y y

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

557

11
11

•popjBMV sinniniajj

1 1 1 1

1 1 o? 1 1 1 1 1 1

1—1

•p3JDj50 suinitnojj

CO lU^JOOrJ. JO c^ 1 loiOlCO
^ i-iC>{i-ii-< C^ T-H nOlOir-i

•papiBAiv sninicuaaj

^' ' ' '

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 O 1 "

1—1

o
1— (

•paaajjO siuiiiuiajj

O 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

o
I— 1

a o

a- ? *A

a -"

•papwM.v STOnitna.Tj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paaauO sranimajj;

1 1 in 1

1 1 1 1 1 ^ 1 1 1

o
»o

.5 O C
C 1. =5

•papaBAiy smnitnajj

1 O ! 1

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 >n 1

r— 1

»o

•paja^O smtiitnajj

1 1 1 1

O 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

1— 1

1 ^

•papaBjU-v suinioiajj

ra 1 O 1 1

1 1 o 1 (r»j> 1 1 1

C< 1—1 CO

lO
00

•pajiajgo sninnnajd;

O lOO'-HO O OOOlO lO 1

1— 1

•papjBAiy smnicaaij

^ 1 I 1 1

1 1 1 CS 1 1 1 1 i

CO i

•pajajjO sninnnaj<i

^ 1 1 1 1

1 1 1 CD 1 1 1 1 1

i i

a f^
1 °

•papiBM.v smnimajj

1 1 »C 1

1 O C* 1 (M»0 1 »0 O
(Tf CO 0(M rHCO

1—1

•pajago Boiniinaij

O 1 IC O 1

ifi O CT IO?OOOlO

Tl< Oi CO lCOOt>.^

Ci
lO

Effects of

subsoil
rioughing.

•papiBMV sinntcnajj

^ 1 1 1 1

1 1 GO 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paaajjO stnnimaJci

1 1 »oo

1 O 00 1 1 t^lrt 1 1

I— 1 1—1 1—1

»o

.9 S g

•papjBM.v Binntuia jj

6^'^g^

1 1 00 1 1 1 Oi G5 CO

1-1 ^-^co

(7i

•paja^o sraniinaid

1 •«* o -^

^ rHl^CO

1 1 00 1 1 1 0050

—1 "^^ CO

to S

.5 2

to a
3 ^
o ^

•papjBAiy stnniraaj J

Ci i>. -^ O 1

1 CO 1 00 QOO 1 1 1
CO C^(?{C^

•paaajSO sramniaaj

1 CO 1 0000 O 1 1 1
CO CtOtOi

00
CO
1— I

Ploughing
with Oxen.

•papauM-V suiniraaj J

O J> t^ 1 1

1 Oi 1 00 rH CO 1 1 1

(TJ (TiCOCO

•pajajiJO suimniaj^

1 Ci 1 OOCO O 1 1 1

U
O
CO

. H ^

558

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

C/2

o
1

•papjBiiV Braniraaj J

•p3J850 smnirasj J

^ 1 OO 1 O 1 1 »o 1 OO I 1

Root and

Vegetable

Crops.

•papjBiiv sratiiuiajj

^?8??^S ' ^ '8 '8^^^

•p3i9jg0 smniraajj

OiGOOOOOWCO O O --H CO O 00 Ci CO

-^ c^ c^< '^ ot oi T-i CO cw {>• CO m (>f

S
o

•papaciiv scaiiTtnaJcI

Ci-^GOOJQOt^ O t^r*! |(?J,-i 1 J>

1—1 I— 1

Ci
00

•paja^O stnntmaj,!

C^ Tf lO CO rf< CO CO (MCT-rfTTO CO
I— 1 ,-( rt

■a
§ &

o o

•papjBAVv Bmnimaa J

^I>OI1CO-I lllllll

l-H

•p9jaj50 scnniraaj a

,^ 1 kO 1 1 CO rl lllllll

•papjBAiv sraniraaij

"-I ICOO O 'JfO 1 |10»005

I— 1

•pais^O sraniaiajj

00
00

.•papwM.Y sraniuiaaj

I-Hcococoo in Tt< o r-( o in CO -H

OJC^'* i-H 1-1 r-l (;>{ ^ CO ffvt 1-1 <M

•pajajBO smnttnai,!

O-^COCOl^W 00 CO 1-1 O O kC krt 1-1

i-iric^'^ 1-1 ^ r^ Oi Oi a (^ a (^

•papjBJiv stnniuiajj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 lllllll

•paaajgO smntraajj

^ 1 1 1 1 1 1 STc^ 1 1 1 1 1

•papjBJiv sratiiraajj

lOOI-^OOQOI-^t^l 1 1

^ r^ r^Oi

•pajajSO scanjuiaia

^ 1 00 1 CO"* O? 05 1 "^O I 1 1

1—1

ji
3

•papjBMY smniraaj J

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 O) 1 1 1

•paiajjo scatiiniaia

1 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 g^ 1 1 1

•papjBAiv sraniraajd:

1 1 1 1 1 1 > > 1 > ^ ■ >

•paja^o smniuiaja

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 O 1 1

i! ^
III

■papaBMy sraniraajj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 lllllll

•paiajjo sranjmaji

llWIOi 1 lli-^lll

I— 1 r-t

o
to

3
a ^

-^..-.^ ..J

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

559

/papjBMy stnniraajj:

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 t 1 1 t

I— (

■paaajjO scanimaJd

1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 1 IC 1 1 1

'1
1

•papjBJiv sranitaaJd

1 1 1 1 1 1 in 1 COli^ 1 1 1

CO
00

•pajajBO srantniaji

SS88 ' 'gS g? ^?5^§^ ' '

■= «

" ■a

i 1

•papjBAiv stnnnnajj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paiajjO sraniniajj

11>1C0I 1 l-^IOIII
OJ CO Ol Ui

i i

■papiBAiy stntiiraajj;

COQOO III 1 1 1 1 1 O 1 1

ff^i-{ Oi CO

1— 1

•pajajgo smnnnajj

O 1 >rt O O 1 O lO ICOOOOO
.-H OaOr-l C^ OiCOCTirHCO
^ I— 1 1— 1 I— 1

00
CO

Crauberries.

•papaBJiv sniiiTuiajj

^ 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paiajffo sraniniaj J

C5 IkOOCO 1 O 1 1 O in CO 1 1

^ r-l CO f-l »0 (^J r-l

•papa-BAiv sranitnaj,!

^OJ(?}0 1 r^ 1 1 1 r-lO 1 1 1

0^r-i I— 1 i-l 1— 1

•paiajSO scantniajj

1 x^O II 1 1 1 1 IC 1 1 1

^ .-ir-l r-l

C5
CO

■O CO

•papjcAiy smtiioiaaa:

OJo>'*'*OCO 05 ^COCJ^O lO
^'* XiinO?"^ CO i-ldOClCOCO C^J

•pajaifo siunitnajj:

00 Ci CO CO ■* CO CO -H lO CO lO 00 lO

Hay Seed.

•papjBAiy suiniaiajj;

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 CO 1 1 1 1 1

CO
I— 1

•paiajso suininiaad:

lOlllt^O ICilllll

KM"

•papjBM.y suininiaij

in 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

ifi

•pajajgo suintnia.ia

00 1 1 1 1 1 1 O 1 1 CO 1 1 1

i
R

•p3paBA\.y scaniraaij

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paiajjo suinnnaid:

1 1 1 1 1 1 IC 1 O 1 1 1 1

»n

•papjBAiy sranicaaJ,!

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•pajaj50 srantuiajd;

1 1 1 1 CO 1 CO 1 1 1 1 1 1

<■•.A,/^ ••.....

_ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ CS

B *T

fa .^
.C . ^ . • ^

lis-.- .^'S-Si-S|i:2g|g

560

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

MiscoUan's.

•papjBMV Bnitiini9Jj

•paaajBO stnniuigjj

HC( '.^l "^"^

(M to W 00 ■* O (N r-< CO 1 1 O CO 1
i-l l>OCOt^C>iCOCO o
1—1 -H rH

1 1

•papaBAiv sninicaaj J

Ht -o nrt" -O -«)

Cio^l 1 I lo 1 it^inioico

-IN

§
Tj*

•paiajgO smniuiaaj

ocioi 1 1 « 1 locoinio

C01>C» -^ rJ-iOl^-^

i 1

... <1

•papjBAiv stunjuiaaji

1 1 O 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

T— 1

•pa.tajgo stnniraajj

1 1 O 1 1 1 III OO 1 1

Implements
and In-
ventions.

•papjBAiv scaniinaja

^g. 1 lO . 1 1 IJ. ICCICO

•paaajjO suinunajj[

kcioi i-H| okniootMicjo

1—1

Soiling ,
Cattle.

•papjBAiv sranimaj^

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•pajajjo sinnituajj;

^1 1 1 1 1 , 1 1 .o 1 , ,

Fattening

Cattle and

Swine.

•papacAiv sraniraajj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paiajgo sainiaiajj

IlkOlO 1 IIIOOIIl

€^ ^ CM

Spading.

•papiBAiy suiniuiaja:

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 to 1 1 1

1—1 1

•pajajjO sniniraajj

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 uti 1 1 1

1— (

Compara-
tive value of
Crops as
Food for
Cattle.

•papiBAiv smnioiajj;

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•pa.ia50 sninituajci

1 1 ko 1 1 1 1 1 1 to 1 1 1

New and
Taluable Na-
tive Fruits
and Seedling
Potatoes.

•papjBiU.v sinniuiajj:

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

1
(

•paiajjo srantniajj

^^ 1 1 lO 1 1 1 1 1 1 O 1 1 I

1-H

1—1

»^ * M

•papjBM.y stnnTtnajd

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paaaj50 samimajj;

1 00 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

&1.

11 =

•papjBM.v scaniniaij

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

•paiajjO sranimajj

till! 1 1 1 O 1 CT 1 1

H
U

5
O

Barnstable,

Berkshire, ....
Bristol, ....
Essex, ....
Franklin, .

Hampden, ....
Hampshire, Franklin and )
Hampden, . . ^
Hampshire,
Housatonic,
Middlesex,

Norfolk, ....
Plymouth, ....
Worcester,
Worcester West,

ABSTRACT OF PREMIUMS.

561

ABSTRACT

Showing- the Aggregate Amount of Premiums Offered and
Awarded hy the different Agricultural Societies.

Barnstable, ....

Berkshire,

Bristol,

Essex,

Franklin,

Hampden,

Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden,
Hampshire, ....

Housatonic, . . . .

Middlesex,

Norfolk,

Plymouth,

Worcester,

Worcester West,

Premiums Offered.

$398 25

813 00

1,209 00

1,304 00

532 75

764 25

795 50

513 25

891 00

859 50

1,624 00

1,074 00

790 00

646 00

$12,214 50

Premiums

and Gratuities

Awarded.

$222 75
842 50
911 25

556 50
444 50
484 75

557 50
550 50
825 00
584 00
686 00
653 75
552 00
459 50

$8,330 50

The amount of all gratuities granted by the Societies is in-
cluded in the sum total of premiums awarded. In addition
to the above aggregates, many of the Societies awarded agri-
cultural books, medals, and plate. Of the value of these last
no return has been made. Owing to the great variety of
forms in which the different Societies make up their annual
statement, it is impossible to make the foregoing abstract per-
fectly accurate. It is near enough, however, to make the
general results sufficiently reliable.
71

562 AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS.

AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS FOR 1853.

Worcester County Society, September 21 & 22.

Norfolk County Society, " 27 & 28.

Essex County Society, " 28 & 29.

Housatonic County Society, " 28 &. 29.

Worcester West County Society, .... " 30.

Bristol County Society, October 4 & 5.

Middlesex County Society, " 4 & 5.

Berkshire County Society, " 5 & 6.

Plymouth County Society, " 6.

Franklin County Society, « 6&,7.

Barnstable County Society, ....

Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden Society, . . " 11 & 12.

Hampden County Society, " 13 & 14.

Hampshire County Society, " 26.

SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

THE FARMER MUST BE EDUCATEB.

[Extracts from an Address delivered by General H. K. Oliver, at the Exhi-
bition of the Essex County Agricultural Society, held on the 30th day of
September last, at Laivrence.]

But if the farmers have done so much, and done it so well,
the nation will confidently look to them to do still more. If
they have been

"Great in the council, mighty in the field,"

the country will expect of them, and have a right to require of
them, still greater and mightier deeds. And to be equal to
this most just expectation and this most righteous requkement,
the farmer must be educated, — yes, educated. Not that he is
now, or has been, an uneducated man ; but He is not, and has
not been, educated enough. He must be educated still further,
— educated specially for the great work of his calling, that he
may be enabled to bring forth greater and better results, by the
application of a more enlarged mind, and a wider and more
liberal study in agricultural science ; that he may be enabled
to double his crops, without exhausting or impoverishing his
soil; nay, by actually enriching it, may secure the largest re-
turn for the money expended and the labor bestowed ; — and
educated collaterally, that he may, as a good citizen, mindful

564 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

and watchful of the best interests of his country, take a prom-
inent part, either as an elector, or as an elected member of
some branch of town, county, state or national government.
All these he must do well, and he may and will do them well,
if he be well educated. All this he may do, without peril of
becoming a brangling demagogue, or a hungry seeker for place
and for its profits. I think his acquired tastes as a farmer, will
protect him against temptation in this direction. For I cannot
conceive, if he be a true farmer, and a devoted lover of a farm-
er's life and a farmer's joys, that he would be willing to change
the plough and the sweet odor of field and wood, — the varied,
cheerful music of nature that fills and blesses the country air,
the secure quiet of his home, — his fields of ripening corn, his
sheaves of golden wheat, his ruddy apples, the mellow fruits
of his orchard, — his rich crops of yellow grain, his mown lands,
glittering with sun and dew, — his verdant pastures, and his
groves, " God's first temples,"

" His rills, melodious, pure and cool,
And meads nith life, and mirth, and beauty crowned;" — Beattie's Mhistrel.

his majestic oaks, and beautiful elms, — his herds of lowing
cattle and his bleating sheep, — his mountains, valleys, hills, —
the glories of his early morns, the gorgeous beauty of his set-
ting suns, and the radiant shine of his harvest moons, — the
fantastic yet brilliant garb of his autumn leaves, — for all the
pomp and circumstance, the tinselled dazzle and the cumbrous
splendor of fashion and the town, — for a bald chance of a first
and last speech beneath the dome of the senate, or for a rude
jostle for eminence among a crowd of political brawlers and
scramblers for office.

" Gleaners of the spoils.

Who breathe around a pestilential breath,
Till virtue's self is tainted with the touch."

Dawes' Athenia of Damasctis.

And yet he would do wrong, did he not keep up a well-
judged participation in political matters ; and it is here, in the
United States, here and now, that the just position of you
farmers, as a controlling element in the government, is ac-
knowledged, and that your influence is felt, is desired, and is
welcomed.

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 565

But turning to the more grateful subject of the farmer's agri-
cultural education, I find a wider field of interest opening out
before me, too extensive to be discussed in detail, even if such
discussion were not an unpardonable exaction upon your pa-
tience. I shall do no such thing; but I do urge, with special
earnestness upon you, that while you cultivate your farms and
bring to bear upon them, every appliance that can enrich and
invigorate them, and so increase their productiveness, — making
two blades of grass to grow where but one grew before, —
making two golden apples to smile from the branch, where
but one before

" Did glitter in the sunbeam ;"

that doing so much for earth, you should not omit to do some-
thing towards enriching and invigorating your own intellect,
that you may make two useful thoughts to spring where but
one sprang before ; something towards the cultivating of your
moral nature, that you may make two useful acts to live and
do their blessed work, where but one had blessed before.
Your own interest is deeply concerned, and certainly promoted
by a steady perseverance in such cultvire. I tell you that the
wiser you are, in all proper and useful wisdom, the better and
the more abundant will be the results you can secure from
every acre of your property. The more you acquire by careful
study and thought and observation, with the wiser and surer
judgment, and with the greater certainty of success, under the
blessing of Him who hath given the earth to man for a pos-
session, and hath insured by His promise that can never fail,
that "seed time and harvest, and day and night, shall not
cease, while the earth remaineth," will you prepare the fields
of that earth for the reception of that seed, and wait the just
time of day and of night, for the coming and the gathering of
that harvest.

The farm was made for the farmer, and not the farmer for
the farm ; and is not, then, the farmer greater than the farm, —
the man, than the soil he treads upon? Will you "rise up
early and sit up late, and eat the bread of carefulness," that
you may improve the lesser, and will you, with stolid indiffer-
ence, neglect, and waste, and destroy the greater? Nay, do
not commit so short-sighted a folly! Cultivate yourselves;
and your homes, your wives, your children, and your farms

566 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

shall feel the benign influence of such culture, and be the better
for it. Nay, more, all social relations shall be the better for it.
Your town, and state, and your country, shall feel its whole-
some influence, and all men shall rise up to honor and to bless
you. In fact, I do not exactly see what right any man has to
neglect the spirit of culture. His own self requires, and has a
right to require, that he give diligent heed to it. His own
family, that other part of himself, requires it of him. Society
and the country require it of him. God requires it of him, for
that great and good Book, that you and I, and all of us,

Do not read
Half so much as we need ;

preaches to us from every page of its inspiration, that we neg-
lect not "the getting of wisdom and understanding," — that we
"abound more and more, in knowledge and in judgment."
All nature cries out upon you and upon me, and upon all of
us, to study the mysteries that dart upon our view, from every
shimmering star that twinkles in the sky, — from the firm shine
of every planet, that walks its stately course round the great
central sun, — from the blazing comet, that, with flaming train,

■ Doubles wide

Heaven's mighty cape ; and then revisits earth,

From travel of a thousand years;" — Young's Night Thoughts.

from the pale moon, that with soft beams and milder light,
steals from her dimly lighted chambers of the east, and walks
her way through the long, silent night, — from the great sun
himself,

" As on the wings

Of glory, up the East he springs,

Angel of light, who from the time.

That Heaven began its march sublime,

Hath first of all the starry choir.

Trod in his Maker's steps of fire ;" — Moore's Lalla Rookk.

from the broad earth, upon which you tread, whose every
mountain and valley, every hill-top and plain, every forest
and prairie, every clod and every smallest dust, every ocean
and sea, and lake and river, and gurgling brook, and drop of
water, is teeming with the great mystery of life, developed or
yet to be developed. Will you walk upon its glorious surface,
as men who see nothing, yea blind as the worms and moles

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 567

that burrow in its dirt, — seeing nothing of the transcendant
wonders that are about and above, and beneath you ?

*' There are more things in Heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy." — Shakspeare's Hamlet.

And will you dwell within this great laboratory of God, where-
in He works out the mystery of His experiments, and refuse
the invitation which even he gives, to take benefit of His les-
sons and their teachings, and to be wise to your own profit?
Will you listen to the murmuring of the brook, that irrigates
your meadow, and makes its rich crop ready for your scythe,
and live in ignorance, that every drop of its waters is but the
chemical result of the mingling of two invisible gases, without
the presence of one of which in all the watery world, the
other would, by its specific levity, seek

The upper regions of the air,
Doing, I know not what great mischief there ; — New Sonc/.

and leaving the cavernous abysses of the ocean revealed to the
light of day, with

" Wedges of gold, great anchors, heaps of pearl,
Inestimable stones, unvalued jewels,
Wooing the slimy bottom of the deep ;" — Shakspeare's Richard III.

and its myriads of known and unknown monsters, to flounder,
to struggle for water, and to perish for the lack of it ?

Will you walk abroad and breathe the pure atmosphere of
Heaven, neither knowing, nor caring to know, that, although
apparently invisible, it is really not so ; that it has all the pro-
perties of matter, — inertia, weight, impenetrability, elasticity,
and compressibility, — and yet is likewise but the chemical
union of tw^o invisible gases, in such mixture that while one
alone would produce death to all that should inhale it, and the
other alone would produce excess of life, — the two are so
justly and nicely balanced by the wise laws of an all-wise God,
as to form an air, at once best fitted to support life, animal and
vegetable, and best fitted for respiration ? Are you wiUing to
be ignorant, that if to certain proportions of the three gases of
which I speak, — oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, — you add
carbon, which is, in its pure state, as furnished by nature, the
diamond that dazzles from the brow of royalty, and in its

568 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

ordinary form, the charcoal that dinges and darkens the face
of the collier, you have, by such addition and combination, a
product, of which are made your trees and plants, your shrubs
and bushes, your grasses and grains, your fruits and your
flowers ?

Ah I I very much fear, that you too often mow down the
grass of your fields for the food of your beasts, — you too often
thrust the sickle into your yellow harvests of wheat, and gath-
er it into your rich granaries; you heap up the fallen leaves
and decayed wood of your forests for manure, — you hew down
the mighty oaks, that adorn your fields, and prostrate the tall
pine, the monarch of your groves, without thinking what
wisdom of God is displayed in the union of the few and
simple elements, which, in chemical combination, make them
what they are ; and how by the use and power of those very
elements, derived from the decayed compost of the barnyard,
you yourself, though ignorant of the process, are making blades
of grass and spires of wheat to grow, and leaves and trees to
come again and to be renewed upon the face of the earth.
There is both profit and a profitable pride in knowing all
these things. Sir Walter Scott prided himself more on his
knowledge and skill in the composition of manures, than on all
the wonderful creations of his genius as a novelist.

Your soils consist of other chemical elements, such as silica,
alumina, lime, magnesia, the oxide of iron, potassa and soda,
and these came from the disintegration and comminution of
the primitive rocks which constitute so much of the mass of
the earth. The seeds that you commit to these soils, the bare
grain — " it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain," —
feel the mysterious working of God's power upon them,
waking them into life, and directing them in search of aliment
appropriate to their growth. But these seeds must be cast
into soils proper for their reception, their nutriment and their
growth. If you cast them carelessly by the way-side, the fowls
of the air devour them, — if you cast them upon stony places,
where there is no deepness of earth, the scorching sun dries
up their sudden growth, and they wither away, — if you cast
them among thorns, the thorns spring up and choke them.
But if you cast them upon good ground, they bring forth then:
thurty, their sixty, yea, even their hundred fold. So teacheth

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 569

the parable of Christ. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear,
and let him learn.

But what is the proper ground, and where is it on your farm,
Mr. Jones, — where is it on yours, Mr. Stebbins, — where is it
on yours, Mr. Thompson ? I dare say you can tell me. But
if you had bought your farms yesterday, and had never heard
nor known anything about their peculiarities of soil, nor any-
thing about the position and characteristics of the various lots
suitable for the various agricultural products you propose to
cultivate ; could you tell me then, without inquiry, without
examination, without reflection ? Now these very matters of
inquiry, examination and reflection, are elements, and very
essential elements, of agricultural education. And he who
instructs you in what you must know in these premises, before
you can take the first safe step, is, for the time being, your
agricultural schoolmaster, and you are his pupil, and are in
the " pursuit of knowledge under difficulties," diliiculties which
you would not have to encounter, had you been previously so
properly educated, as that you could, by your own personal
examination of the various localities on your newly purchased
lands, judge and decide for yourself, in what part of them,
were the soils adapted for the largest yield from the crops you
propose to put in. Or, if you designed to raise large crops of
certain single agricultural commodities, decide before pur-
chase, whether any particular farm in the market, — or whether
the soil of the County or of the State, were suitable for your
purpose.

Again, having a superior agricultural education, you may
easily decide, if you find a farm, which for satisfactory cause
of locality and neighborhood, you would desire to purchase,
whether it lack the elements, any, or all, necessary to the ob-
ject you have in view, and wlicther it can be made to receive
them, and so be brought into the right condition. I have read,
somewhere, an account of the purchase of a farm, by the Hon«
Reverdy Johnson, — near Baltimore, — the soil of which was
reduced to the meanest condition of impoverishment. The last
crop of corn raised upon it, yielded the infinitessimal quantity
of one peck to the acre. Not knowing what to do, nor getting
from the agriculturists about the neighborhood, anything
more reliable than guess-counsel, he applied to a chemist, — not
72

570 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

again to practical farmers, for they had failed him, but to a
chemist, whose vocation was not in the field, and about the
soil, but in the laboratory, and the chemist visited the place,
took portions of the soil and analyzed them. He found a
plenty of magnesia, of lime, of potash, iron and organic mat-
ter. Yet one thing it lacked. One element of a fertile soil
was wanting, — and that one absent, all the rest were noth-
ing worth, — even as gunpowder without the kindling spark.
There was no trace of phosphoric acid. He directed that the
biphosphate of lime should be applied, and this having been
thoroughly done, the farm in fervent and substantial gratitude
for this application of the proper food to its starved and
exhausted frame, poured out its rich wheat at the figure of
twenty-nine bushels to the acre. Now this curer of a bad
and almost hopeless soil, as it seemed to the common observer,
was a book-farmer, nay, rather a book-worm, who had never
been at the plough tail, never handled a rake nor swung a flail.
What would you have done, Mr. Anti-book-farmer, but poked
your way towards the cure in the dark, trying experiment after
experiment, — perhaps hitting the nail on the head, or perhaps
hitting and bruising your own fingers, — that is, wasting your
time, your money and your labor to no pvirpose ; — supposing
you to work for the remedy on the terms of " no cure, no pay,"
— and despairing of all success, have recommended to the
honorable gentleman, if he had no other means of living than
the yield of this hopeless farm, to sell it for the most he could
get, pack up his traps, and push for the West or for Cali-
fornia.

I am aware that there are very many most excellent farmers,
possessing great practical skill in their vocation, and so pro-
ducing most excellent results in their culture of their farms.
And were you to take issue with me, and to ask the question,
whether there have not been more successful farmers, without
education specially as such, — than there have been successful
farmers with education, it might be difficult for me to sustain
my argument by proving the latter to have been the case,
though perhaps a good point might be made by showing that
one cause for its not having prevailed is, that it is of compara-
tively recent date, that the subject of the education of the
farmer with distinct reference to his calling, has been specially

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 571

urged. Cicero has some remarks, which, with their reasoning
and with but slight change, I might adopt here — though origi-
nally applied in another connection. " I own," he says in his
oration for the poet Archias, from which I have already made
quotation, — " I own, that there have been many men of ex-
cellent talent and of preeminent virtue, who, without learn-
ing, and by the almost divine force of nature herself, have been
wise and eminent, — nay, farther, that nature without learning,
is of greater efficacy towards the attainment of glory and virtue,
than learning without nature. But then, I affirm, that when to
an excellent natural talent, the advantages of learning are ad-
ded, then there results from such union, something great and
extraordinary."

The appeal I have made thus far, has been urged more di-
rectly upon the farmer now actually engaged in his work, and
not in reference to the prospective farmer. For the right edu-
cation and culture of the latter, I shall have no fears, if I can
prevail upon the former to yield to my arguments and become,
as soon as may be, an educated man, self-educated, and they
are among the best educated. The moment he shall feel the
benefits of education, he will be most desirous that the young
farmer should have those benefits before he goes between the
plough-handles, or first swings the scythe. How the latter
shall be provided for, and what means of right education shall
be secured, — will naturally suggest themselves to the mind of
the former, when it shall itself have been liberalized by the
influences of this very education, for which we plead. He will
require an agricultural department to be established by con-
gress, as a part of the executive organization of the general
government. This, like many other useful and necessary pro-
jects, which it is the proper office of congress to discuss, and
when approved, as this particular one could not fail to be ap-
proved, to put into active operation, has, I regret to say it,
hitherto failed of success.

Again, farmers will require that there be in each State, what
has already been established by our own legislature at its last
session, a State Board of Agriculture, with a working secretary,
competent in every department of agricultural science and art,
to act as an organ of communication, between the State gov-
ernment and the several agricultural societies throughout the

572 ' SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

Commonwealth, and to communicate instruction and advice
to every farmer who should consult him. What an impulse to
agriculture would the right man for the place impart! They
will further require that there be created, what Massachusetts
yet lacks, agricultural schools, in such number and location as
would accommodate the several parts of the State, to be taught
by men of extensive attainment in all science having any con-
nection with agriculture, aided by men already skilled in all
the practical operations of actual farming.

I will not stop to make detailed statements of the studies
that should be pursued in such schools. They have been
exactly and admirably set forth in the report of the commis-
sioners upon that subject, made to our legislature by Professor
Hitchcock, in the session of 1851. Let me commend this re-
port to your notice in all its minute details, as worthy of your
special attention. Let me further commend to your careful
reading, the excellent address delivered before your society by
the Rev. Mr. Braman, of Danvers, at your last anniversary.
The argument in favor of what is here recommended, (and
this recommendation is but the reiteration of what has been
recommended a hundred times before,) is there most fully and
admirably set forth and needs no addition from me. Into these
schools, I would be glad to see thronging, the sons of our
farmers, who intend to follow the pursuits of their fathers, and
our young graduates of college, adopting the agricultural life,
in preference to taking their chances in professions already
over-stocked, and all selecting the country for a residence, rather
than risking the life of their bodies and souls amid the multi-
tudinous temptations of the city.

The chief obstacle which the present farmer will encounter
in his effort at self-education, will be his own prejudices and
those of his class, — and these prejudices barricade the way of
his progress. I remember that when a boy, and not obeying
the counsel of my mother, on a certain occasion, — and i found
out, after taking my own course, that I had made a great mis-
take,— I remember that she looked at me reproachfully, and
said, " Harry you stand in your own light." A gentleman who
was near and heard the remark, suddenly turning upon me,
cried in my ear, with so loud a voice, that its echo has not left
me in the forty years that have since elapsed, " Harry, get ou.t

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 573

of your own light." Now I say to every farmer who pertina-
ciously clings to old maxims, old modes, old tools and old tra-
ditions, simply because he thinks, — if he think at all in the
matter, — that they must be the best for their odor of age, and
obstinately shuts his eyes, that he may not see anything new,
and plugs up his ears, that he may not hear anything new re-
lating to his craft, that he stands in his own light, and I should
like to scream into his ear, with the intense shriek of a steam-
whistle, and have the sound tickle his tympanum, as it will
mine to my dying day — " Get out of your own light !" Let
the sun of science, which is pouring and diffusing its life-giving
and gladdening beams all over the manipulatory processes of
every art and craft, shine in upon, and illumine and benefit
yours, — yes, yours, which, in fact, " is no longer a mere art or
craft, but," as Marshall, an English writer of the last century,
well observes, " is a science, which, when viewed in all its
branches, and to their fullest extent, is not only the most im-
portant and the most difficult in rural economies, but in the
circle of sciences."

Nay it is both a difficult science and a difficult art, for it
comprises as a science, a knowledge of the animal, vegetable
and mineral kingdoms; a knowledge of the chemical constitu-
ents, of soils, and of atmospheric phenomena, of every sort ;
and a knowledge of the mechanical agents necessary in agri-
cultural manipulations, — and as an art, it implies a knowledge
of the proper method of selecting and laying out of lands, and
of their management and improvement; a knowledge of the
best modes of culture; a knowledge of the economy of live
stock ; of the best method of raising vegetables, and of man-
aging a dairy, and of entering the market with his merchan-
dise, whether as a wholesale or retail product.

If then science reveal to you new implements of hus-
bandry, professing to save labor and to increase product, try
them, so far as they may be applicable to your exigencies, and
see if they be true to their profession. You are not called
upon to believe in everything new, any more than you should
believe in everything because it is old. Try what you think
may be useful to you, and let your neighbors do the same.
Let the good be put to good use, and reject the bad. In the
course of my experience as a manufacturer for a few years

574 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

past, my attention has been frequently called to many articles
of machinery, either wholly new in their construction, or in-
tended to be applied to existing machinery to correct and im-
prove its operation ; to increase product with the same amount
of labor, and by so doing, to cheapen the cost of the manufac-
tured article. Whatever, after proper examination and discus-
sion and counselling with the experienced men that assist me,
seemed to have claim to a trial, received it. If it passed the
ordeal, it was adopted ; if it failed, it was rejected. You will
find your account in doing the same, whether in reference to
a new farming implement, or to new modes of using old ones ;
to a new method of preparing your compost of manure and of
applying it to your grounds, or to new modes of planting, sow-
ing, and of managing the growth of crops, or of reaping and
harvesting them.

Now I confess, that while I have all the respect for old im-
plements and old modes of husbandry, and for ancient farmers
and ancient writers on farming, many of whom wrote and
counselled admirably, I have not any more, and will not give
them any more than just what they deserve. I remember that
when quite young, I once saw a farm laborer winnowing grain
by the slow and tiresome operation of tossing it up and down
in a sieve, the heavy parts dropping in a heap, and the chaff
being driven off by the wind. This mode, if deserving of
praise, and of being continued in the ratio of its antiquity,
would be entitled to very special commendation and perpe-
tuity of use, for it was practised by the Roman laborer before
the birth of Christ; — and I find, in Homer's Iliad, the events
of which date back to the remote period of nearly twelve hun-
dred years before the Christian era, the following allusions to
the same implement and practice :

" As from the peasant's fan the wafted chaff,
Parted by golden Ceres from the grain,
Falls in thick showers and whitens all around." — Iliad, V. 499.

And again,

" As Tetches, or as swarthy beans,
Leap from the van and fly athwart the floor.
By sharp winds driven and the winnower's force." — Iliad, XIII. 588.

Now this is old enough. But since this sight of my youth,
I have seen another, and I certainly think, a better mode, and

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 575

that is, winnowing by a machine, which, " instead of waiting
for whatever dispensation of wind Providence was pleased to
send upon the sheeling-hill," as honest and simple old Mause
argued in "Old Mortality," raised it by the human means of
pulleys and fans, and did the business of separating the chaff
from the wheat in a better, quicker, and cheaper way. What
more would you have? Yet the use of a winnowing machine
was obstinately opposed by the farmers of Scotland, where it
first appeared, and was denounced from the pulpit as a devil-
ish and presumptuous invention of the arch enemy of souls.
And this same obstinacy of prejudice, and stolid sticking to
old habits, are not yet dead, though they must eventually fade
out before the light, the spirit and the progress of the age. If
nothing new is as good as the old, and the old was well enough
as it was, why then, use your fingers instead of a fork to put
your meat into your mouth ; use a piece of bark for a plate; —
use the camel, the ass, the mule, — for all purposes of vicarious
locomotion, and put away your hissing-hot and thundering
iron-horse with his hurricane speed, and his shrieking, deafen-
ing whistle. None of you believe in any such nonsense ; and
if improvements in these things meet your approbation, and
you would never consent that the world should be without
them, why will you not use the same candor of judgment, in
relation to novelties, either of implement or of operation, in
your own calling?

Do not misunderstand me, and go away with the impression
that, since I commend to you the new and the progressive, I
have a low opinion of all the old of all ages of the world, — or
that I condemn or think slightingly of ancient husbandry. Let
me prevent such unjust deduction. In the many years wdiich I
spent in studying the classical writers of Greece and of Rome,
I could not do otherwise, even with but a moderate degree of
attention, than to acquire some knowledge of the agriculture of
the ancients, and it was my first design to address you on that
theme, contrasting it with the methods of the moderns. But
recording my thoughts as they rose within me, I was led by
them in another direction. Yet let me here say in brief, what
I might have said more in detail, that agriculture was held in
the highest estimation among the earlier and later nations of
antiquity. Kings were its "nursing fathers, and queens its

576 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

nursing mothers," — and the mightiest monarchs saw and felt
their highest glory to be found in honoring the plough. Egypt
ascribed its introduction to mortals, as the great work of her
gods, and Greece and Rome dedicated temples and erected
statues in its honor. The greatest geniuses and the noblest
intellects of antiquity threw the whole force of their minds, in
extolling its praises, in advocating its importance, and even,
like glorious Virgil, in giving practical directions in all its im-
portant details, — and many of these details furnish not only
curious, but really useful information. Some of the maxims
of the Roman farmers are almost identical with those recently,
if not still in use among the best modern English farmers. It
could not be uninteresting to the studious farmer, nor "alto-
gether useless," as Dickson rightly observes in his elaborate
work on " The Husbandry of the Ancients," to communicate
to him a knowledge of the practices of ancient nations, famous
for their wisdom, and whose greatest men applied themselves
to the study and practice of agriculture."

I have said thus little in reference to the husbandry of anti-
quity, that I may not be misinterpreted in being said to have
spoken lightly of it. It is not that I esteem or love ancient
husbandry, its old modes and old tools and devices, less, — but
that being nearer and more interested in things of my own
day, and desirous of their good, I love modern husbandry more,
and greatly desire its further improvement. In securing that
improvement, you will take all the good you can find in the
store-houses of former days, and add all the good you can get,
from the studies, the researches, the suggestions and the im-
plements of modern times.

Be, then, more liberal and enlarged in your views ; more
ready to examine into what is going on in your line of life in
other localities ; more earnest to test alleged improvements ;
more willing to examine, than to sneer at them, when proposed
for your consideration ; more willing to let your natural good
sense, by its own unimpeded action, deliver you from the
shackles of old prejudices and old obstinacy against progress,
and you shall find light shining upon your way with a brillian-
cy before unknown to you, and guiding you to the attainment
of results that your best imaginings had never conceived.
Everything about you will be bettered. That tasteless, un-

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 577

graceful and awkward " palace of pine boards, grown venera-
bly black with time, — but so rickety, flimsy, that every blast
of wind gives it a fit of the ague,"* — and shall give way to a
structure, which, with its symmetrical proportions, its thorough
workmanship, and its beautiful home-expression and harmony
with the rural objects that surround it, shall combine all that
is useful, convenient and comfortable for its inmates. The
smallest house can be so made. You will find that the beau-
tiful in architecture, though distinct from the useful, is in har-
mony with it, and that they each aid and adorn the other. I
do not say that every farmer nuist go to work and demolish
his old house, and put up a new and elegant one. That might
be a pleasant thing to the lumbermen, the masons, and the
carpenters ; but might not be so well for the farmer's pocket.
" Fun for one, but death" to the other, as said the frogs in the
fable, might apply to such case. But I do say that when he
does build one, or when he alters, or adds to the old one, he
need not persevere in perpetuating all that is homely and
tasteless. Many farmers, I know, take the "old homestead."
Well, that "old homestead" hath many delightful associations
connected with it, from "the old oaken bucket that hung in
the well," and the row of old beehives that murmured beyond
the wall, to the pleasant faces that clustered round the family
hearth. But the "old homesteads," when repaired, as they
must occasionally be, may be repaired by the eye and hand of
good sense and good taste. Its associations shall be all the
more pleasant for the embellishments you may add to it, all in
the rural way. A grape vine, a climbing rose, the " Queen of
the Prairies" or the "Baltimore Belle" may be thrown against
its walls, or be made to twine above the door or window. In
front, some shade trees, our beautiful maples, or ashes or limes
or double-flowering cherries and apples, may keep ofi' the in-
tenser sun of summer. Within the front enclosure a neat
flower garden, yes, a flower garden, with perpetual roses, and
iris, and gladiolus, and asters, and dahlias, may be arrano-ed
with the least amount of labor required, and the good wife
and the children may take the care of it, and with you enjoy
the comfort of it. I say the good wife and children, — for these
every farmer must have, or home is no home. A wifeless

* Washington Irving.

578 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

childless farmer, one who is so by culpable coldness and
neglect of his own, is a selfish, chilly-hearted monster, who
walks his dismal pilgrimage in mouldy loneliness, and should
know no peace till he yields to matrimony. There are ver}-
many faculties given us by our Maker, to be cultivated by us
for our own happiness, and the more we cultivate the innocent
and refined ones, the happier and the better we shall be. Home,
with all its concomitants of wife, children, books, music, flow-
ers, and social intercourse, is, and ought to be, the dearest spot
of all the earth. You may make it, or mar it. Adorn, then,
your homes, within and without, and home shall adorn and
comfort you. Your children will be more attached to it, and
less likely to leave it for Californias or Far- Wests, and more
likely to settle in its neighborhood, and to build other and
tasteful abodes. Let me commend to you, in this connection,
the work on " Country Houses," by the late lamented Down-
ing, who perished in the " Henry Clay," to the deep sorrow of
every admirer of the beautiful in architecture, and in gardening,
and who had done so much for the ditfusion of an improved
taste in all that relates to rural affairs. There perished the
tasteful student of nature, whose life has been to his country-
men, a mission of beauty ; whose ripe judgment, and vivid
imagination, and loving insight into the sv^^eet, tender secrets
of mother-earth, have been bodied forth in artistic combina-
tions and suggestions, that have awakened a new spirit of
taste in the community, and made many a glorious landscape
a monument of beauty to his loved and honored name.

His books will teach you, how easily you may combine the
beautiful with the good, the useful with the elegant.

The whole country sutlers when such men as Downing and
Norton are taken away. The latter gentleman was appointed,
a few years since, to a new professorship in Yale College, that
of " Chemistry applied to Agricultvire and the Phenomena of
Vegetable and Animal Life." Though young, he w.as one of
the highest ornaments of learning, and gave assurance that
could not fail, that if spared, his influence and his teachings
would prove of the highest value to the agricultural interest.
Each was invaluable in his vocation, the one leading the way
and directing to the useful, and the other showing how to
unite ornament and beauty to utility.

H. K. OLIVER'S ADDRESS. 579

Nor shall your dwelling only, feel the good eflfects of the
improvement in education and taste, for which I have pleaded.
Everything around you shall be bettered. That rickety old
barn, which the winds of heaven, and the rains and the snows
have desolated and rendered unfit to pretend to house the
shivering cattle that deserve a better fate, shall no longer dis-
grace you its owner, and the groiind it stands on. You will
supply the beasts that faithfully serve you, with comfortable
quarters, remembering that the more thoroughly you secure
them from the cold of winter, the less food they will require.
" For it is well known, that the extra supply of heat needed
by animals in cold weather if not supplied by warm housing,
must be supplied by an extra consumption of food, and yet
this extra food adds nothing to the flesh or strength of the
animals." — Doivning-^s " Country Houses.^^

Cleanliness will also characterize its interior, and you will
be sure that all the manure shall be thrown into its appropriate
place, and none of it be allowed to accumulate and stick upon
the flanks of your oxen and cows, injuring their health, and
insuring to yourself the reputation of being a nasty sloven.

Thatuncared for piggery, that slough of despond, that stew
of stercoraceous stench, that Serbonian bog of fathomless filth
and miasmatic putrescence, in which your bedaubed swine
struggle and wallow ; and that unsightly quagmire of needless
Hastiness, in which an unsympathizing slovenliness compels
the "lowing sweet-breathed kine" to slump, and wives and
daughters to wade, ankle-deep, as they toil to reach the
" milky-way," — these shall both disappear, to give place to
accommodations which, combining neatness with utility, shall
be at once agreeable to the eyes, and just as profitable to you,
if not more so, as laboratories and store-houses of your indis-
pensable compost. This same spirit of improvement will
exhibit itself all over your farm. You will have better stock,
better trees, better fruits, better grains and vegetables, better
fields, and fences, and walls, — better people about you, better
neighbors, and yourself and household be better themselves
and betterers of the whole community.

580 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

CHEMISTRY IN ITS RELATIONS TO AGRICUL-
TURE.

[Edrads from an Address, Delivered at Concord, Mass., htfore the Middlesex
Agricultural Sociely, at Us last Exhibition, by Hon. L. V. Bell.]

Upon the first development of the new science of chemistry,
the agricultural world instinctively looked to it, as the bearer
of good tidings to its art. It so let the world into the hidden
mysteries of things in the arts, that there was a natural expec-
tation that it M^as to serve in elucidating the arcana of vegetable
growth. In glass manufacture, calico printing, color making,
metallurgy, and a hundred other of the like mysteries, as the
arts were termed in the indentures of those who were to serve
a seven years' apprenticeship in their acquisition, prior to a
true chemistry, the difficult processes having been reached
tentatively or accidentally, were kept as rich seci»ets, and the
recipes were handed down as legacies and heir looms from
father to son. Chemical analysis at once unfolded all these
hidden results. A color, the making of which, was known to
perhaps one or two families, who kept it in sacred security
from their very employers, was discovered by analyzing a rag
or a sample of the fabric upon v»'hich it had been impressed.
A drug which existed in nature ojily in rare and inaccessible
deposits, was compounded by mixing together two or three
cheap and common ingredients. And at this hour, in every
manufacturing country, a chemist is an essential of every great
work, and nothing is bought, except after his determination of
the exact value of the article used. One man in our capital
city, after a long residence in the country where the article is
made, of close observation, great experience and consummate
tact, can, by breaking and scratching and examining a sample
of indigo, determine its quality of coloring principle so exactly,
that no failure need be feared in acting from his judgment to
an extent involving thousands of dollars. Any competent
operative chemist can do this same thing by the processes of
his laboratory, to the same degree of precision and reliability ;

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 581

a f^ood illustration between the highest reach of experimental
skill and scientific accuracy.

I have not compared the authorities closely enough to de-
termine the date at which the true chemistry of agriculture
made its first step, or the name of the earliest in this pursuit.
Suffice it to say, that it is only some fifteen years back, that
its history commences. During this lapse of time, a vast many
students of the science have devoted themselves to its elucida-
tion in all countries where chemistry is cultivated. For the
first time in the history of the world, the farmer can now take
a sample of his soil to the chemist, and say, " Sir, will or will
not this earth produce wheat or flax ?" and the chemist can
reply, " It cannot." " Can you inform me how I can make it
produce the one or the other ?" " I can." And his replies
shall be certain, carrying with them the demonstration of
mathematical truth. Suppose the question had been asked a
few years ago, " Why are guano, or crushed bones, or gypsum,
a good manure in one place, and upon one crop, and not in
another place for the same crop ?" Could any better answer
have been made, than that experiment showed that it was
sometimes useful and sometimes valueless ? It is so, because
it is so. Now the chemist tells you that the article is a ma-
nure, because it contains certain elements which are essential
to the composition of the given plant, and if the plant can get
them readily enough from the soil as it is, by its elective pow-
ers, it requires no such addition ; if it cannot, the guano or
other material meets its exigency. He proves his science by
synthesis and analysis. He takes another plant which he finds
has no such component element and it grows in the soil which
has refused to sustain the first plant. He adds the requisite
element, — the before languishing plant revives and flourishes.

Analyses of mineral substances are among the easiest pro-
cesses of the chemical laboratory, upon which the pupil com-
mences his earliest manipulations. It was of course, to be
expected that the general characters of the earthy crust would
have been discovered by the earliest investigators, after chemis-
try became a science, for as before intimated, prior to the days
of Lavoisier, who was guillotined in the French Revolution,
chemistry was scarcely more entitled to the name of a science,

582 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

than animal magnetism now is. But the earlier disciples
never reached the more difficult exploit of making a true analy-
sis of animal and vegetable matters, and were not put into
the way of finding out the never-ceasing relations existing
between the earth and what it bears. The ashes of plants,
that small per centage of residuum left, and which we now
know, bears a constant and essential relation to the kind of
vegetable, they considered as a mere uncertain, accidental
impurity, which was not worth regarding in vegetable chemis-
try or physiology.

The great doctrine upon which all scientific agriculture is
grounded, and which each year has done something to bring
into practical use, is, that the ingredients or elements found in
the soil are the same which exist in the plants, and that the
minutest quantity is as indispensable to the growth and pro-
duct of the plant as the largest. The two parts in one-thou-
sand of phosphoric or sulphuric acid are as essential in making
the crop of wheat yield its grain, as the one-hundred parts of
animal or vegetable decayed matter. This doctrine, the key to
all agriculture henceforth, they never dreamed of.

Let us make the briefest synopsis of what modern chemistry
has taught us of the relations between plants and soils. I am
the more inclined to occupy your time in this, inasmuch as it
has not formed so far as I have been informed, the topic of any
of the addresses before you on previous years. Some mind
may at least be refreshed and turned to a further investigation
of this great modern starting point of a true and progressive
agriculture. Whoever takes up a handful of soil and atten-
tively spreads it around, ^vill not fail to see that it is made up
of two great components, a stony or earthy part, and a part of
woody or animal remains, or mould. Subjecting the specimen,
after it has been freed from all water by drying, to a red heat,
the latter portion will be burnt up, as we call it ; in other words
will be dissipated into gases or vapors.

We here get the great division of the soil into its organic
portion, being the vegetable and animal parts which once had
life in some form, and which however changed by decay, re-
tain the elements peculiar to such former shapes, and inorganic^
which comprises the rocks, great and small, however worn

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 583

down and broken up by friction, changes of temperature or in-
ternal decompositions, and the air and water which enter into
the composition.

In burning out the organic part of a soil, the gases given off
are in fact only four, and make up all that does not remain
in the ashes. These gases although resembling each other in
some outside particulars, as transparency, compressibility and
freedom from color, are as widely removed from each other in
essential characteristics, as aqua fortis, or alcohol, or water.
Their character could not be determined from mere sight, as
seen in or rather through a clear glass jar, but let bottles con-
taining these four gases, be sent to a practical chemist, and he
could be in no more danger of confounding them, than he
would be in identifying milk or vinegar.

We then have, as the entire constituents of all plants, these
four gases ; carbon, oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen, and what-
ever may be in the ashes, which is left.

The proportionate amount of organic matters in soils is very
variable. In some pure sands you cannot burn out one per
centum, and in some peaty soils, you may burn up seventy-
five per centum, three-quarters of the whole weight, after the
water has been all evaporated. The inorganic matters of the
soil, having all come from the decomposition of the surface
rocks, comprises of course a vast many elementary ingredients.
There might, in fact, be as many as there are mineral or me-
tallic substances known. But so far as vegetable growth or
the agricultural relations are concerned, it is obvious that very
many of the possible elements are entirely inert and unneces-
sary. Gold dust, for example, we have the best authority for
believing, exists in admixture with fertile soils in California
and Australia, but can do neither good nor harm to the root-
lets of the vegetables, opening their mouths around it. So
that in practical effect, many of the constituents of the soil may
be thrown quite out of consideration, so far as vegetables used
for human food are regarded.

In fact, the fairly agricultural soils may have only about a
dozen of the now more than fifty elementary bodies, of which
we know all created things are formed. To be sure, if one
were to attempt to grow certain plants which are known to
contain rare elements, it would be necessary to look beyond

584 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

these common ingredients. Iodine, for example, is an exceed-
ingly precious medicinal article, which is manufactured from
the incineration of sponge and other vegetables growing on the
sea-shore. It would be perfectly useless to try to abstract
iodine from plants grown away from the salt water of the
ocean, which always shows this ingredient on being tested, but
no more vain than it is to try to raise wheat from a soil which
gives, on testing, no phosphates.

Of these dozen or fourteen elements, necessary to the forma-
tion of the ordinary edible vegetable products, silica, or silex,
or flint makes up the larger proportion in most kinds of rocks,
and consequently in most kinds of soils. A fair proportion of
this article would be anywhere from thirty to seventy per
centum, although some soils are capable of supporting some
vegetables with a vastly higher ratio of pure silex. The arundo
arenaria, a species of reed grass, which has proved of the
utmost value in political economy, by its aid in reclaiming
millions of acres of movable sands on the western coasts of
France, and even on our own cape, by its roots binding the
loose and blowing sands, is sustained in perfection where more
than ninety per centum of its soil is pure flint.

Next after silex, is alumina, the basis of clay soils ; then
come lime, magnesia, soda, various acids and some oxides or
rusts of metals. Let us give an illustration of the relative pro-
portions of these in an ordinarily fertile soil, or one which will
produce good fair crops without the addition of manures.
Such a soil might be expected to present in every thousand
pounds in weight, a hundred pounds of organic matters ; six or
seven hundred of silex ; fifty or sixty of lime, and the same of
alumina, and from two to eight pounds each of potash, soda
and magnesia; forty pounds of carbonic acid and two to four
pounds each of phosphoric and sulphuric acids. And as be-
fore suggested, it is just as fatal, so far .as specific plants are
concerned, to leave out the one as the other of the various
components.

The question will naturally be asked, " Where do such in-
gredients as potash, soda, and oil of vitriol, drugs we know in
every day experience as the costly, corrosive and strongly
marked articles of the apothecaries' shelves, come from ?" The
reply is easy, for their whereabouts in the soil is one of the

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 585

points demonstrable by the very youngest student in analytical
chemistry. They exist not as separate and disjunct ingre-
dients, but so combined together that their peculiar traits are
lost so far as external characteristics are concerned, in the com-
pound. For example, oil of vitriol and lime, both exceedingly
caustic, when united form plaster of Paris, whose extraordinary
inertness is well known.

While the soil is made up of the dust or detritus of the rocks
under it, or as is much more common, of those \vhich have
been swept over the underlying ledge by some great diluvial
currents, (for soil without a trace of lime is often found resting
on limestone ledges,) of course the elementary ingredients
which entered into the rocks originally, will be found in the
soil, and are gradually brought into new combinations by their
effects upon each other, and especially as recently discovered,
by the galvanic or vital action of the roots of growing vegeta-
bles upon them.

Take for example, our most common rock, granite. You
cast your eye upon its pepper and salt colored surface, and you
will have no difficulty in making out that it is composed of
three different minerals, stirred together as it were loosely, so
irregularly in fact, that all conditions of coarseness and fine-
ness exist. While in the fine, equable and good varieties, each
inch is tinted and arranged like each other inch, in the coarser
forms, pieces of one of the minerals as large as hogsheads may
be observed, and veins, streaks, and contorted dykes of what
elsewhere in the same stratum may be thoroughly incorporated
and uniform granite, are prominent. One of the components
of granite is quartz, resembling clear or smoky glass, the second
is the isinglass or mica, in scales usually of tiie size of the sec-
tion of a pin's head, but which may exist in plates five or six
feet square, and the third is the pearly lustred, opake, whitish,
or yellowish, or rose-tinted stone known as felspar. Now this
felspar contains, fifteen to twenty per cent, of potash, as pure
as any that ever passed inspection. It is so closely combined,
that it does not rapidly decompose. Buildings of granite will
last for ages in dry climates, but a piece put into the soil where
vegetation is active over it, will speedily lose weight.

I have alluded before to this wonderful dissolving power in
the roots of growing plants. A carious illustration of this
74

586 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

occurred to me within a short period. There was picked up,
in the cultivated part of the garden of the place where I reside,
a fragment of a common green glass bottle, (made as such
ware is, by melting sand and ashes together in a strong heat,)
upon which, while molten, there had been impressed a seal or
stamp to mark the identity of the wine it was to contain, with
the inscription, "P. Fancuil, 1741'' — the same Peter Faneuil,
no doubt, to whom Boston is indebted for the material struct-
ure of the " Cradle of Liberty." Circumstances of occupancy,
not necessary here to be recapitulated, make it certain that
that bottle must have been in that garden more than seventy
years, and in all probability, one crop after another had grown
successively in close proximity to it, for that space of time. It
bore abundant and deep marks of the solvent power aluded to,
in marked erosions, of every degree of depth from cavities to a
mere removal of the enamel or polish.

Some of the varieties of minerals common in all soils have
soda instead of potash. Lime is attainable in soils which give
no indication to one who looks for any specimen, however
minute, of limestone, and where no limerock ledge may exist
within a hundred miles. Sienite, for example, which is a
common ledge rock of this State, variously known as Quincy or
Gloucester granite, although really no granite at all, contains,
as one of its three constituents, the mineral, hornblende, which
gives the complexion, whether black or buff colored, to the
stone. Hornblende contains eighteen or twenty per cent, of
magnesia and fourteen or more of lime.

Without elaborating or exemplifying at any greater length
the universally admitted facts that the inorganic part of soils,
and the rocks from which they are derived, have all the ingre-
dients, alkalis, earths, acids and oxides which are found in the
composition of the plants themselves, let us continue a further
examination into the constituents of vegetable growths. While
in soils, the organic part has a very small ratio to the whole
mass, the reverse is remarkably the case in plants. We have
spoken of a soil naturally fertile as having ten per ce'ntum of
combustible or organic material. There are very few plants
which will have an amount of ashes equal to one-fifth of their
dried weight, while some have as small a proportion as one-
hundredth. Different portions of a plant, its bark, leaves,

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 587

wood and especially its fruit or seed, vary quite essentially in
the quantity of ashes, as well as the elements into which the
ashes are resolvable.

The gaseous products of the burnt plant have precisely the
same nature, as those which result from the organic portion of
the soil, and nothing more. All vegetables, poisonous, medi-
cinal, nutritive, fragrant or nauseous, acid, tasteless or aromat-
ic, tender or tough, white or colored, are constituted of the four
gases before-mentioned, (and even one of these, nitrogen, is
occasionally absent,) and whatever is left in the ashes.

Plants thus obtain all their inorganic and a portion of their
organic components from the ground, as is now proved beyond
question by experiment and analysis, notwithstanding there
are authorities on botany and vegetable physiology, published
within our own day, which express the idea that plants are
actually indebted to the ground for little, if anything, but
water, leaving the notorious fact, that one soil is more fertile
than another, unexplained. A portion of the organic materials
undoubtedly are obtained by absorption from the atmosphere?
through the leaves. Carbonic acid, for illustration, which is a
combination of carbon and oxygen, exists always in the air, a
small and uniform quantity being everywhere diffused through-
out it, whether the specimen be taken from the very top of
Mount Blanc or the lowest depth of the profoundest mine.
By the processes of that living chemistry ever in action, the
oxygen is separated from its combination and leaves the
carbon behind. When the woody structure is burnt under
circumstances to drive off some parts and leave others, we
know this carbon under its form of charcoal. The fact that a
plant closely covered with a glass vessel gives out oxygen,
which can be separated, is proof positive of this one of the
many facts of vegetable chemistry.

Now in the ashes of plants, with a single possible exception
connected with alumina, and which may hereafter be proved
to be unreal, are found every one of the dozen or so of ingre-
dients, which are proved to exist in fertile soils. For example,
in the ashes of the potato, there is fifty six per cent, of potash,
thirteen of phosphoric acid, fourteen of sulphuric acid, nine of
iron, magnesia and lime, and four of silex.

When thus much was demonstrated of the essentiality of a

588 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

given ingredient in a soil to the production of a plant, in which
the same component had been proved to exist, the way was
open for direct and unmistakable tests of the theory in the
large way of practice.

Observation and experience had already shown much of that,
which the theory above briefly outlined gave a ready and sat-
isfactory explanation. It has, for example, been long noted?
Virgil even indicates it, that where a particular crop had been
grown for a series of seasons on the same fields, the land had
become tired of it. The practice of longer or shorter rotations
natarally followed, and it was found that so entire and irre-
trievable had been the exhaustion in some cases, certain crops
must be left entirely out of the series of rotations. The agri-
culturist could, a few years ago, only explain these facts by
stating them in other phraseology. The soil was said to be
exhausted, and so it was, but not in that indefinite meaning he
attached to the word. It was clover sick., or 'wheat sick, when
these crops gave out. Now when wheat, which requires a
large figure of phosphoric acid, having drawn all that sub-
stance out of the ground which was in it, declined to grow,
and turnips which did not contain but little of that ingredient
did well, the rationale seems obvious enough to us.

Sagacious cultivators did not fail to notice another singular
state of facts, for which they were wholly at fault for explana-
tion. They saw that a very few pounds to the acre, of some
mineral substances augmented the crop to a surprising degree.
Pounds of such manure brought off hundred weights of crop,
in one place, and was useless m another. Gypsum was an
example. In Nova Scotia, where it was brought from, it was
so useless on land that the people fancied it actually did mis-
chief. Of course, conjectures were made to account for what
seemed a crapricious action, and the conclusion generally
reached was, that gypsum did not do any good near the sea,
and the next part of the philosophy was, that it was the salt-
ness of the air which interfered with it. Unluckily, it proved
that it did do good near the sea, in some places, and then it
was certain that no salt ever leaves the ocean from evapora-
tion, none in fact, but the spray mechanically driven inland,
and lastly, salt, or salt water had not the slightest decomposing
or altering eft(3ct on gypsum, which is a sulphate of lime.

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 589

Now, we may pronounce on examination of half a peck of
earth from a man's farm, whether gypsum will do him good or
not, with as much certainty as any mathematical fact can be
demonstrated.

Or again : take a common case, alas ! too common, as any
one feels, who travels over what were once the richest regions
for the cereal productions of our country, of an exhausted
wheat field. Five or six bushels of lime dust sets it again in
full action. The former rationale of this unquestioned result
was, that certain drugs were stimulants to the land, and gave
" nature a jog," in the same way that bark and wine and such
like cordials and restoratives gave vigor and animation to the
worn out and enfeebled human system. The idea that such
a minute quantity of material could act as a nutrient, after
the soil had been overloaded with' the richest dressing of ordi-
nary manures, seemed absurd. It might just as soon have
been supposed that a boarder was starving at the best furnish-
ed hotel, because he could not get pates de fois g-ras, or some
other of the ultimata of the culinary art. Turn to the simple,
intelligible explanation of modern science. The ashes of a
bushel of wheat is found to be about two pounds in weight.
Of this, one half is phosphoric acid, not free or pure until
separated by skill, but in a phosphate of lime and potash.
Five or six bushels of bone dust, which is composed mostly of
phosphates, just furnishes a fair supply after this ratio. Ap-
plied in practice, it could not be so equally diff'used as that
every rootlet of the growing vegetable should have its proper
supply, and a due allowance should be made for this circum-
stance. There were other well ascertained facts which seemed
to be explained on this idea of certain substances possessing
a stimulant power upon soils. A farmer in certain locations
found that the application of lime increased — even doubled his
crops. He naturally applied it so long as so happy a result
follovv^ed, with a liberal hand. After a time, his crops fell off,
and even the regular allowance of barnyard manure seemed
to fall short of its usual effect. He drew the inference that
lime had ruined his lands. So generally was such a train of
consequences noted in certain districts in the old country, that
it became a common proverb, " that lime enriches the fathers,
but impoverishes the sons."

590 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

The ready elucidation of such facts by agricultural chem-"
istry, was this : The soil was originally deficient in lime. Its
use was followed by an immense augmentation of such pro-
ducts as required a calcareous component, and this increase
brought into requisition other essentials, as phosphoric acid,
occasioning also the exhaustion of these. When these were
all removed, of course the lime was not adequate, and the true
medication would be determined by ascertaining what was
then wanting and adding it. While the crops were small, the
now missing ingredients would have eked out the products
through a long series of years, so that if the land has been
really impoverished, it is because its best portions have been
turned into money.

It is a fortunate circumstance in the aspects of the agricul-
tural future of the world, that those elements of the valuable
plants which are most essential, and most liable to be removed
by a succession of crops, are such as will be replaced without
difficulty. The world will now be searched, as it never has
been before, for the magazines in which nature or accident has
stored up these precious deposits. In the immense aggrega-
tions, some of which are known, and many of which are yet to
be discovered, of guano, which is nothing in fact but the resi-
diuum of fish, digested in the stomachs of water fowl, and
then allowed to undergo farther changes and chemical recom-
positions under pressure, heat, and the absence of any solvent
rains ; — in the excrementitious matters of large cities, formerly
turned as noxious and inconvenient refuse into the currents of
great rivers or into the tides of the ocean, but now in the pro-
cess of being most carefully preserved and applied to agricul-
tural uses ; — in the natural marl beds, which contain many
valuable elementary principles, and lastly in immense ledges
of phosphate of lime, which have been discovered and opened
in New Jersey, and which doubtless will be found in other
regions, — in all these we see abundant resources to supply the
consumption of the most precious ingredients. In fact, these ele-
ments are not annihilated in the using. The acids and allialis
and other elements which make this year the turnip, then the
human being, then the grain, then the horse or the ox, are
never lost. There is but a series of rotations, and when it is
fully understood that these components are worth saving, all

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 591

our arrangements will be made to prevent waste into earth,
ocean or air. In many of our best farming establishments,
nothing which can enter into vegetable composition is suffered
ever to fail of its appointed purpose. Nor are the means to
accomplish this complex or costly. Upon the small farm, con-
nected with the institution where I reside, and which contains
less than thirty acres under cultivation, the annual average
profit, as known by a rigid system of book-keeping, charging
everything which goes upon it of labor to its debit, and its
products to its credit, at the same rates at which the balance
of similar articles is purchased, has proved to be about ^1,400
a year, for the last fifteen years. That no exhaustive process
is going on, is evident from the fact that the last half has been
better than the first half of this period. This result is entirely
ascribed to the care with which every ounce of residuum of
nearly two hundred and fifty persons, solid and liquid, is re-
turned to reproduce the crops. A judicious system of sewers,
of manure cellars, of sheds, where the effects of time may be
availed of in decomposition of manures, and in killing the
seeds of most weeds which can be thus destroyed, and of ad-
ding vegetable growths from the marine marsh, and pulverized
gypsum to prevent atmospheric absorption, account for so un-
usual a degree of success. I speak of it with praise, freely,
because the management has been not in mine, but in more
experienced and practical hands.

The grand organic and inorganic portions of the earth's
crust are not in danger of being rapidly lost, even if no replace-
ments were made. Let any man dig up an average cubic foot
of soil in his tillage land, dry it thoroughly, weigh it, then burn
out as much as he can, leach what is left and deduct the bal-
ance, and he will attain to an approximation of the quantity
which is or may be actually food for plants. He will not get
the whole, because, as we have seen, vegetables have the
power of dissolving and appropriating what is flint or sand or
other insoluble element, which can be neither burnt out nor
lixiviated. But let him disregard this, and multiply the or-
ganic matter he has thus discovered, by the depth of his soil
and the number of his acres, and he will be amazed at the
millions and millions of pounds of absorbable food for plants
he owns. Weighed against corn or potatoes, and he will be

592 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

satisfied that he needs no* gold mine, if he could transform
these elements into marketable products.

That wonderful power in vegetable physiology by which
each plant elects the matter, in quantity and kind, which is
essential to its existence, cannot now be dwelt upon. The
still more curious fact that each part of a plant has this power,
is worth an illustration. An early experiment of Mr. Tesch-
macher on this point, is very interesting and instructive. He
knew by many analyses that the grain of wheat had a large
proportionate amount of phosphorus, the stalk or straw none.
He made a rich compost of mould and manures, from which
the phosphates had been carefully eliminated, and divided this
into two portions, into one of which the theoretically required
proportion or phosphorus was added. The seed wheat was
sown in each, and each crop grew with strength and luxuri-
ance. When it had arrived at that point where fructification
should commence, that process was never set up in the crop
from which the phosphoric elements were omitted, but went
on to an entire grain in the other. Crops of wheat with lim-
ber stalks, incapable of bearing up the heads have been also
grown, or rather started, in peaty soils, where no proper pro-
portion of silex or flint to stiffen the barrel existed, as well as
experimentally in preparations in which entirely organic soils
were used.

I deem these illustrations so essential in fixing the truth of
modern chemistry, that I know I shall be pardoned for adduc-
ing a few more instances. Since the mysterious failure of the
potato crop, it is well known that one of the best substitutes
has been found in the southern sweet potato, or yam. Our
markets receive vast supplies of this root from Virginia, and
indeed its cultivation as far north as Long Island has not
proved difficult. The impetus w^hich this demand gave to it,
at once called out the energies of the southern planter to in-
crease his crop. It was well known that its best soil was the
cow-penned tracts where cattle had been kept together. The
farmer naturally inferred that cow manure was the triie article
to dress his soil with, but to his surprise and disappointment
this preparation proved all in vain. No crop followed, and no
observation of his, enabling him to guess the reason or mend
the difficulty, he had only to yield in despair of a remedy.

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 593

Prof. Shepard, one of the chemical teachers at the south,
analyzed carefully the yam, and found that there were some
fourteen ingredients in it. Cow dung had been so often and
carefully analyzed by my friend and relative, Dr. Dana, of
Lowell, in his finally successful endeavors to supplant the
necessity of keeping a large stable of cows for the use of their
manure in calico printing, (by ascertaining the precise drug
wanted, and obtaining it from cheaper sources,) that nothing
could be better known. These analyses demonstrated that
cow manure had only five of the fourteen elements of the yam,
and that in so insignificant a quantity that the whole amounted
to only from one-half to one per cent.

The urine of the animal was next passed under analysis,
which, of course, under the cow-penning system was lost in the
subjacent soil, but which had been wasted in their methods of
manure saving. It was found to contain the identical four-
teen elements of the yam, and some others which were not
essential. Could any demonstration be more conclusive ?

But it is not only in these experiments of the scientific man,
or the minor fields of farming, that the truth of our doctrine is
made manifest.

The history of the application of guano and that of agricul-
tural chemistry run together. In the worn out and exhausted
fields of Europe, under thousands of years of grain cultivation,
any person who saw their dark and rich mould turned up to
the light, could be in no doubt that there was neither exhaus-
tion nor deficiency in the great organic essentials. Chemistry
told him that it was the two or three most limited articles, so
far as quantities are regarded, which had been carried off in
crop after crop. Chemistry told him that guano had these
things ready for use, and on the strength of this theory, verified
by an immensity of testimony, guano has already become one
of the great articles of the world's commerce, for which fleets
are fitted out and wars threatened. Probably over two hun-
dred thousand tons of this article will be carried into Eno-land
the present year, at a cost of over ten millions of dollars.
Those of my audience who recall the recent correspondence
between Capt. Jewett and the Secretary of State, touching the
great operations now on foot for transporting this article from
the Lobos Islands on the coast of Peru, will understand the
75

594 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

magnitude of the prospective calls for this article. In the
United States, its cost is about $40 per ton, or two cents per
pound, and three hundred and fifty pounds, or seven dollars
worth to the acre, will meet any calls for several crops to come.
Its pulverulent form makes it of easy application.

The reclaiming of vast territories of worn out lands in Mary-
land and Virginia, by the application of lime and ashes, al-
though resulting from experiment, verifies chemistry.

But we do not want for an abundance of proofs of the direct
chemical medications, so to speak, in which the accidental has
no possible admission; we have, perhaps, as many as could
have been looked for, considering the infancy of the science and
its yet few adepts. In New Jersey, near Morristown, (I am
indebted to Col. M. P. Wilder for these illustrations,) it was
desired to ascertain whether a crop of ruta-ba^a could be raised.
Prof. Mapes found that the soil was deficient in phosphate of
lime, potash and some of the organic elements. These were
supplied directly, and a crop of fourteen hundred bushels to
the acre resulted. A field was examined where the crop of
wheat had got down the preceding year to less than fifteen
bushels. The wanting elements were supplied and its next
year's product was fifty seven. In another example the surface
of the soil was exhausted of certain constituents, while the
subsoil was found to contain them in abundance. Of course
subsoiling and thorough incorporation of both spil^ was pre-
scribed. Crops of fifteen bushels of corn and sixty bushels of
potatoes, were followed by a yield of three hundred and fifty
bushels of potatoes and one hundred and fifty bushels of ears
of corn. A gentleman in Maryland, whose cornfield, says Mr.
Wilder, appeared in the last stages of consumption, applied to
a practical chemist for an analysis. It was found to contain
the essential ingredients of lime, potash, magnesia, silex,
alumina, and what is rarely wanting, oj-ganic matter or mould
in abundance. One thing was lacking. It was that same
phosphoric acid of which nature has furnished but a small sup-
ply. An article was purchased, whether bones, guano, or the
mineral phosphate of lime, is not mentioned, at an expense of
ten dollars per acre, and the result was a crop of twenty-nine
bushels of wheat to the acre. I will bring forward but one
more of the hundred of striking exemplifications of the direct

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 595

application of science to agriculture, which I have found scat-
tered through foreign and our own journals and reports. Cer-
tain experiments were directed by the Prussian government to
determine how far certain lands were reclaimable by the use
of the sewerage of Berlin and Dresden. The territory was of
given and uniform sterility, and the experiments were carried
through a series of years with the following results : — A crop,
which in the natural soil, produced, without manure, three to
one from the seed sown, yielded seven to one v^^ith cow ma-
nure, ten to one with horse dung, and fourteen to one with the
city sewerage. Chemical analysis demonstrated that the want-
ing elements had precisely this ratio to the fertilizers employed.

I am now ready to be met with the question, " Admit all
that modern science claims as to the relations of agriculture,
how can it benefit us ? Would you advise us to purchase
guano, or crushed bones, or make shipments from Mr. Alger's
phosphate of lime ledge in New Jersey ?" My reply would be
simply this, " I advise nothing." It would be presumption and
folly for any man, in the present state of science and agricul-
ture, to go into large experiments, or to arrange his affairs in
conformity to what seems an entire prospective revolution in
his art. All that I think any one could feel warranted in say-
ing to the practical farmer, whose livelihood depends oii the
results of his avocation, would be this : — The greatest develop-
ments are now in progress in your business, that, perhaps, the
world has ever witnessed in any of the leading pursuits of
men. It is not extravagant to predict that the changes in the
manufacturing arts, or the arts of locomotion and the like,
which have burst upon us with such extraordinary suddenness,
had no precursors more indicative of great things, than the
last fifteen years have shown in your avocation. Watch and
be ready for the adoption and taking advantage of the gift,
when it is ready to be distributed. The farmers of the old
world have akeady began to reap the blessed fruits of increased
crops and easily repaired exhaustion. You now stand in a
somewhat different position, but not one in which the prospect
is dark or discouraging.

In a prospective look into the effects to result from the ap-
plication of special manures, there are many circumstances in

596 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

which our position as a neAv country is widely different from
the old regions of Europe, where the land has turned off a
thousand crops, and has thus become exhausted to an almost
uniform degree, that is, so far as the richer and minute ingre-
dients are concerned. In England or Belgium, for example,
the cultivated lands have been by a long series of cultivations
and rotations brought to a standard, which is perfectly w^ell
understood and recognized. Long leases are entered upon
with agreements for several series of rotations, with specifica-
tions as to the extent of tile underdraining and other improve-
ments, the relative shares landlord and tenant shall bear in the
outlay, and the precise condition in which the soil shall be re-
turned, so far as the elementary ingredients of fertility are re-
garded. In these countries, all the facts touching the exhaus-
tive effects of different crops, the value of manures and the
like, are precisely known. The tenant boldly invests thousands
of dollars in manures, engages corps of workmen for each de-
partment, for the plough-man and the hay-maker, the cattle-
herd and the swine-herd know nothing of each others's art, and
so little is there of uncertainty or question in the results, that
extraordinaries of seasons or political events excepted, a given
return for the capital invested may be looked for. A change
in the duties of five or ten per cent, would unsettle the arrange-
ments, or even involve in ruin thousands of farmers. In fact,
all the agricultural operations of these countries have a more
close analogy to commercial or manufacturing business, than
to what we know as farming. The sheep husbandry of V^'er-
mont, the cotton planting of our Southern States, the flour
raising of the West, which have much in thein of the charac-
teristics of commerce, are the only kinds of our husbandry
similar to the agriculture of Great Britain.

Our system has quite a different set of relations, moral as
well as financial. It has its advantages and disadvantages.
It provides more fully for the most glorious realization of the
husbandman's condition, — independence, living within one's
own kingdom — freedom from the hazards of capital borrowed
and at stake, of discounts and losses, of tariffs, and ups and
downs of prices current. If he cannot grow very rich, he is
not likely to fail. Instead of investing his thousands in ma-

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 597

nures or machinery or animals or wages, if he is so successful
as to have some money in advance, he invests on mortgages?
or in banks, or perhaps in railroad shares.

Under our recent date of land cultivation and our systems of
loose and imperfect agriculture, we are still drawing annually
upon the deposits of food for vegetable life laid up in store,
ages before the continent was discovered. As one sweeps
along the railroad from Baltimore to Washington, he sees
miles and miles of land, once the richest in the world, worn out
by repeated cropping and " turned out," as the phrase is, to
grow up to scrub oaks and underbrush ; or throughout large
sections of the "Ancient Dominion," he may notice counties of
" old fields," thus sacrificed to maintain a former splendor.
But in no part of the hard soil of New England, do we notice
the exhaustive processes to have been so palpably completed,
although here at the North, it is undeniable, that the skinning
process is not always concealed. Most persons no older than
a majority of my audience, will recall the glowing accounts of
the Genesee flats, brought back by some adventurous neigh-
bor, who had undertaken that long journey, which we now can
complete between breakfast and supper. Those rich alluvions,
whose fertility was supposed to be beyond diminution, are
already deprived of some of their precious elements. The feet
after feet of mould, which then was believed would bear crops
to all future time, is all there, but its phosphorus or potash or
soda has floated to the cities never to return, unless modern
science finds the way to replace it.

In the early days of our railroads, as most of us have sad
reasons for recollecting, a fearful error was made in what was
called "construction account." Everything of improvement,
damage or waste, which should have been carried to " repairs,"
was carried to " construction." Everything went along most
prosperously to the eye, until after the whole " construction "
had to be closed, and then the hideous chasm of repairs began
to open. In our system of farming we have been drawing
prodigiously on " construction,"— the idea of repairs has scarce-
ly entered our minds. Our whole system has, in fact, been the
most inexact and loose imaginable. Who among us, if asked
if his district had reached the highest point of possible culti-
vation, could reply in the affirmative ? Any one would say

598 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

that there were farms on each side of him, which were running
out, and farms which were improving, — farms adjacent to each
other, and originally precisely similar, the same products of
which now vary one-half. The range of production among
us is too enormously wide, to be consistent with the supposi-
tion that there is any recognized best system. No one doubts
that sixty or seventy bushels of wheat, one hundred and forty
or one hundred and fifty bushels of corn, or five or six hundred
bushels of potatoes, three or four tons of hay, have been often
produced to the acre, and that by the fair and open processes
of husbandry. Now if these figures are twice or three times
as much as the average crops among us, must it not prove
that farming is at best pretty poorly understood ? Suppose a
cotton mill of equal size and number of hands with another,
turned out twice the quantity of yarn or cloth, how long would
it be before a general stir and probing of the matter would be
made ? Yet compare the value of the Indian corn crop with
the cotton manufacture, and the latter interest will be found
an insignificant topic of investigation.

Few persons can conceive the immense aggregate of money
which a small per centage of increase in any of our great agri-
cultural .staples will heap up. For example, our Indian corn
crop in Massachusetts is not short of two millions of bushels.
The man who tells us how to produce ten per cent, more than
usual, adds $100,000 to the actual money wealth of the State.

Mr. John Delafield, whom I recollect in my boyhood as the
exact and careful cashier of a city bank, where I was in the
habit of doing the clerk's business of a mercantile house, and
who, obeying the instinct I have adverted to in my opening
remarks, retired to cultivate a farm in Seneca County, N. Y.,
and who is, or lately was, President of the New York State
Agricultural Society, in an elaborate and accurate report,
drawn up as a man of his habits and pursuits alone is apt to
put together statistical tables, demonstrates that in his county,
the average wheat crop, fifteen years previous, had got down
to ten or twelve bushels to the acre. Year before Itist, it
averaged twenty-five bushels. Why should it not reach fifty
bushels, if, as there is abundant proof, it has in the same
climate reached sixty and seventy bushels ?
. I need scarcely say, that most of the great recent improve-

L. V. BELL'S ADDRESS. 599

ments in augmenting crops, have been made by men who
believe and who put in practice to as great an extent as prac-
ticable, the new applications of science to agriculture. In cast-
ing an eye over all the publications on the subject made within
the past five years, one is convinced that this science has
received an unqualified admittance into the minds of almost
all the intelhgent and devoted friends of husbandry. The
grand summing up then of the reply to the inquiry with which
I commenced, is this ; — Agriculture is now in a rapidly transi-
tion state from a tentative art to a true science, and we are on
the verge of wonderful results from this progress. The farmer
has a right to anticipate a " better day coming," when the
labors, the uncertainties, the perplexing mysteries of his calling
shall all be lightened, when there shall be a more exact stand-
ard of duty accomplished, or of results which are practicable.
" WiJl this good time," you ask, " require that every man shall
be a chemist or a philosopher ? — for if so," you will say, " we
are too old to learn new trades." In reply I would say, that
of a thousand master mariners who direct their vessels with
accuracy and certainty across the pathless ocean, probably not
one understands the principles on which his chronometer, his
sextant or his nautical tables, are based. If the easiest table
of the navigator was expunged and lost, a convention of all
the shipmasters of the Atlantic coast could not replace it. I
look for the same analogy in the application of chemistry to
agriculture — that is, that our farmers should make the no
difficult acquisition of so much science, as will enable them to
apply the sextants and tables of their art to its every day
course.

600 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

WHAT HAS BEEN AND IS DOINC4 FOR THE GEN-
ERAL ADVANCEMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

[Extracts from an Address before the Worcester County Agricultural Society, at its
Fair, held on the 23d September, 1852. By Prof. James J. Mapf.s, Editor of
The Working Farmer.]

The improvements in agriculture during the past half cen-
tury have been greater than those of any previous time. You
will recollect that the iron plough-share was invented but
eighty years ago, and that the improvements made upon it
have since increased its utility five-fold ; that before its inven-
tion, the ploughman could disturb but ^V ^^^ weight of soil,
with the same amount of power, and in the same time, that
may now be disturbed; that the slight depths to which he
could plough would scarcely bury the parasite plants calcu-
lated to annoy his labors. The dry and the wet soil were
manured alike, and the sand and clay soil received similar
treatment. The subsoil plough and the underdrain were
unknoVn ; even the causes of the benefits arising from the
plough were but slightly understood.

Among the greatest improvements of the day we may name
underdraining and subsoil ploughing, preceded perhaps by
deeper disintegration of the soil by the surface plough. The
benefits to be derived from deep surface ploughing are too
numerous to be only entitled to a passing notice. Even the
fine ploughing we have witnessed to-day, although infinitely
superior to the present average ploughing of the country, and
as compared with the general ploughing of thirty years ago,
calculated to improve materially the condition of the farm, is
still not so deep and thorough as well-directed experiment has
proved to be advisable. Why do we plough at all ? Is it not
for the purpose of admitting air and moisture to the soil, to
permit roots to travel to a greater depth, by loosening particles
from each other ? Do not soils improve by the action of the
atmosphere upon their ultimate particles, and must not this
improvement be proportionate to the number of particles acted
upon? Can the atmosphere enter soil to as great a depth

PROFESSOR J. J. MAPES'S ADDRESS. 601

when but slightly disintegrated, as when rendered thoroughly
pulverulent ?

We have all observed that when cold surfaces are presented
to the atmosphere, even during the warmer days of summer,
that drops of water are condensed upon them. Thus a pol-
ished piece of steel, wiped dry before its removal from an ice
house, will, on being placed even in the direct rays of the sun,
be suddenly covered with drops of water, before its reception
of heat causes reevaporation. Must not, therefore, a soil
ploughed to sufficient depth to enable the atmosphere to circu-
late among the cooler particles, be continually the recipient of
moisture from the atmosphere ? If the land is dry, must not
the missing moisture be resident in the atmosphere above, and
will it not be received and retained by deeply disintegrated
soils ? Do not crops withstand drought on deeply disentegra-
ted soils, while on those ploughed to a less depth they suffer for
want of sustenance ? The necessity of moisture in the soil,
as the solvent^ of food for plants, must be evident; for rest
assured that plants do not, by any mechanical action, disinte-
grate the ultimate particles of manure ; they only enter the
plant after solution in water, or after assuming a gaseous
form, and enter water in that state. Such solutions then enter
the roots of plants, and from their leaves are given off the aque-
ous portions, leaving the solid residue to complete the organism
of the plant.

Why do our fields require reploughing ? Is it not because
the falling rains lubricate the surfaces of particles, causing the
earth to settle to a more compact form ? Is it not to overcome
the settling of one season, that we plough the soil the next ?
Does not the oxidation of the surfaces of particles from atmos-
pheric influences, roughen them, and thus prevent them from
so readily settling to a compact form ?

In the exhibition of to-day, we have witnessed ploughs of a
most superior workmanship — surfaces polished to a degree not
known to our forefathers — the configuration mathematically
in accordance with the requirements of the instrument, and
with an equi-libration of the parts so disposed as to place
strength where needed, and to insure the greatest degree of
lightness. No longer is the ploughman called upon to waste
his strength in overcoming the faulty shape of his plough. It
76

602 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

maintains its proper position and its proper depth, simply by
causing it to hold its upright position, and therefore the labor
of the ploughman is materially lessened. The improved Mich-
igan plough, as offered by Mr. Knox, establishes a new fact in
the art of ploughing, namely, that a plough may be so construct-
ed that the upper portion of the soil, by being turned over by
a separate share, leaving the separate portion to be elevated
by another, consumes less power than the removal of the
whole mass by a single share. It gives us all the advantages
of trench ploughing, if performed to an equal depth. The por-
tion of soil which has received the combined influences of sun
and air, is placed nearest the roots of plants, while another por-
tion requiring such influences is alternated each year, so as to
benefit by these actions.

The removal of a less portion of soil at a time, subjects all
the particles to less pressure than if the whole mass had to be
removed by an amount of power passed through the lower
particles alone ; and this will prove particularly serviceable in
soils charged with clay at a few inches below the immediate
surface, for where so much force is applied to this clay, as is
consequent upon the removal of the whole mass by power
necessarily applied to the lower side, it will cause a compact-
ing of the clay, which, if ploughed when slightly too moist,
will require years of cultivation to again restore it to its pul-
verized state. Many a field has been destroyed by being
ploughed when too wet, thereby compacting its clayey portions.

All the rationale I have offered in relation to atmospheric
influences as connected with surface ploughing, is equally
applicable to subsoil ploughing, and underdraining. The
subsoil plough is not intended to elevate the subsoil to the
surface, but simply to follow the surface plough propelled by
a separate team passing its beam along the bottom of the
surface plough-furrow, and disintegrating the subsoil. This
it does without elevating it, as it has no mould-board and
simply acts like a knife with a lower shoe, raising its load a
single inch, and suffering it to fall back in the subsoil cut,
loosened and opened. , Such treatment, it is true, is of no ser-
vice in soils surcharged with moisture. Such soils cannot be
benefited by subsoil ploughing until after thorough under-
draining ; for the stagnant condition of water in these cuts

PROFESSOR J. J. MAPES'S ADDRESS. 603

will restore them to their original hardness in a single year,
but in properly prepared soils the effects are very different. In
such soils as are properly prepared for the subsoil plough the
disintegration causes all the inorganic constituents of plants
contained in them to be rendered available for the use of crops.
First, the atmosphere carries them through the necessary chem-
ical changes and renders them soluble in water ; next, in such
solution they pass into the roots of plants, which are sure to
enter a well divided subsoil, and in this condition they are
carried to the surface. The roots of crops left in the ground,
by their decay, deposit this accumulated material drawn from
the subsoil in the surface soil, in a state ready to perform all
necessarily required of it.

During seasons of drought the roots of plants pass down
into these subsoil cuts and receive moisture ; and during ex-
cessive rains the excess of water can pass from the surface into
the subsoil, leaving part of the roots at least not drowned out,
and it is for these reasons that corn on subsoiled land never
shows curl in the leaf, and partly for these reasons that sub-
soiled meadows seldom run out. Another and more important
reason for this latter fact is that when the roots of grasses
reach a cold, un disintegrated subsoil, the root crown ceases to
tiller, and no side roots are projected for the formation of new
plants, whereas in subsoiled land, the roots may travel to a
much greater depth before any such result can take place.
Grain crops, when grown on subsoiled lands, tiller freely, and
hence thin sowing of seed on such soils is a good practice. In
wheat growing districts the saving of seed amounts to a profit.

Underdraining, when properly pursued, is still more impor-
tant. Millions of acres of valueless lands have been restored
by this practice, and pent up quantities of materials of which
plants are formed, have been rendered available to the farmer •
nor must it be conceived that underdraining is useful in
swampy lands alone. The very hill-tops may sometimes be
improved by thorough underdraining. The admission of at-
mosphere through these drains permits its heat, which always
rises, to find its way from the underdrains through the whole
depth of soil above it ; for heat, although difficult to descend,
rises with ease, and a properly constructed underdrain is never
without a current of air, and that portion entering during the
day time from the influence of the sun previously exerted

604 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

upon it cannot but be warmer than the supernatant soil.
Properly underdrained fields are also early. The absence of
an excess of water prevents the accumulation of ice through
the soil and leaves it ready for the plough and in a less com-
pacted form than soils not so treated.

The underdraining of Enghsh farms, and the action of the
British government in relation to the profit consequent upon
underdrains, settles all doubt on this question. Long practice
has shown that most farms, when properly underdrained, give
an excess of produce, as compared with their previous produc-
tion, which enables the farmer to pay ten per cent, of the cost
of underdraining each year from the increased products, and
therefore, at the end of a few years he finds his farm increased
ten per cent, in value, or more, with the cost of improvement
paid for, by the excess of crops during those few years. In-
deed, some of the English statesmen have advanced the doc-
trine that although but a portion of the farms are as yet under-
drained, still the whole agricultural product has been increased
ten per cent, by this improvement alone. From these causes
the government have each year set apart a large fund to be
loaned for draining mortgages, and these mortgages are only
active beyond a valuation previously made of the farm. The
owner is required to pay five per cent, of the principal an-
nually, until all the mortgage is discharged by such paynjents ;
and should he fail to make these payments, and the mortgage
should be foreclosed, the government can only appeal to the
increased value, beyond the value fixed before the underdrains,
for their payment; and still no case has yet occurred where
this increased value was not entirely sufficient to discharge
the debt.

I should like to dwell more specially on underdraining and
subsoil ploughing, as applied to this country, and particularly
to this district, if my time would admit.

To recur to the importance of fairs. Perhaps no set of citi-
zens are less migratory than farmers. They remain at home,
their vocations seldom permitting them to leave their business,
and hence we find modes of operating pursued in one town-
ship scarcely known to any other. Many farmers in different
parts of the country raise one hundred bushels shelled corn per
acre, and still thousands of farmers, occupying land of similar
quality, continue to be satisfied with a product of one-third that

PROFESSOR J. J. MAPES'S ADDRESS. 605

amount. Should the farmer who raises thirty-three bushels
per acre have an opportunity of meeting him who raises the
hundred bushels, this difference could not long exist; and fairs
are the means by which farmers may instruct and consult each
other.

We find land at Harsymus, near New York, rented to mar-
ket gardeners at $75 per acre per annum, and still these gar-
deners find it profitable. Land of equal quality may readily
be met with in the vicinity of Worcester, which, at an expense
beyond its present value not exceeding $20 per acre, could be
similarly corrected, and still such improvement is not appealed
to. Visit the fairs, gentlemen, where you may meet these
Harsymus gardeners, and profit by their example.

In some parts of the country I have visited fairs where
almost every vegetable exhibited was a hybrid and not true to
its kind. All this might be corrected if farmers would visit
distant fairs where such hybridations do not exist and procure
their seeds. This should be the duty of every agricultural
society. Small quantities of pure seed may be so readily pro-
cured and at so little expense that they should be introduced
into every neighborhood. All kinds of fruit may be improved
and put in cultivation by the exchange of scions, grafts and
cuttings at fairs, and those wiio have fruits of superior quality
should be invited to bring with them and distribute for the use
of others the means of perpetuating them.

New implements may be seen at fairs. Labor-saving ma-
chines may be there found and purchased. Addresses are heard
from those of accredited knowledge, and indeed it would be
difficult to find a farmer who has ever visited a fair without
returning home with a determination in some way to improve
the culture of his farm. A crying evil among our farmers is their
fondness- to enter into mercantile projects as soon as they have
spare profits to so invest. I have known many a farmer who
loaned out his capital at six per cent, who could have used it
on his own farm at a profit of twelve per cent. Too often the
more active minded sons of farmers are sent into the cities to
become merchants, or as students of the learned professions^
while the supposed drone of the family is kept at home to con-
tinue the working of the farm on antiquated principles, and he
very often in after life has to receive back his beggared brethren

606 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

into his ill-conducted asylum. If the farmer will use the same
energy in the improvements of his processes as in the invest-
ments of his spare funds, he will find that he has a noble art,
capable of calling into action the best talents of his smartest
son. All the sciences are the adjuncts of agriculture, and the
importance of agriculture as a public interest is beyond all
others. The merchant is but the factor of the farmer. Cities
are built on the commissions earned by their inhabitants act-
ing as the brokers of the farmers, receiving and finding market
for his products and paying him with those of other countries
in exchange. The wealth of those cities is constituted of the
mere commissions consequent upon such exchanges, and they
owe their importance simply to the concentration of these
minor points of national wealth as compared with the greater
amount of wealth diffused through the agricultural community.
The day is fast arriving when an educated class of farmers
will, in our halls of legislation, claim as their right, a fair per-
centage at least of the public treasury, of which they contribute
nine-tenths, for the advancement of agriculture as an art, and
we shall not long be contented with the empty compliments of
legislators who have forgotten the recommendation of the
IMMORTAL Washington for the establishment of a home depart-
ment of agriculture, and who now amuse us with vague prom-
ises which they have no intention of fulfilling.

Before leaving the subject of the general importance of agri-
culture, I would remark, that one per cent, upon the agricul-
tural crops of this year, would be greater than the total amount
of income of our government from imports, and every other
source during the last four years. Our Indian corn crop alone
will reach 700,000,000 of bushels, worth, at export value, $350,-
000,000. Our hay crop exceeds this amount, and indeed we
have many crops which far exceed in value the much talked of
cotton. It owes its importance, as compared to the others, to
the fact of meeting so large an export, thus registering its value
at our custom houses, and causing it to be continually kept
before the public eye. Who among those at your ploughing
match to-day can doubt that if the government had offered a
premium of $10,000 for the best improvement in the plough
within any consecutive five years, that it would have called
into action mechanical talent connected with practical experi-

PROFESSOR J. J. MAPES'S ADDRESS. 607

ence which would have produced a plough capable of increas-
ino- our whole production, either in the economy of its use or
greater ability of action, the one per cent, above referred to,
but the fact that this one per cent, would not find its way to
the public treasury causes our representatives to forget that
they are the servants of the people, and not the advocates of
the federal government, abstractedly a distinct body. Under
the sanction of fashion and scientific bedazzlement, they have
appropriated a much larger sum for improvements in the tel-
escope, as if the examination of the surfaces of other planets
was more important than a close understanding of the qual-
ities of our own.

I have been requested in this address to refer particularly to
the cultivation of the Peach. It is true that New England is
not as well positioned in climate for the cultivation of the
peach as New Jersey, Delaware and some other States, and
hence the greater necessity for more exact cultivation, for with
it this crop may be grown in sufficient quantities for home
consumption and to prevent the necessity of import which is
now a large item in most of the Eastern States. The peach
tree where native (Persian) is of slow growth, producing a
hard texture and firm wood. With us it is an exotic, and as
such should be treated. The ordinary mode of raising peach
trees is to give them little or no care. They are taken from
the nursery rows in a deformed shape, consequent upon grow-
ing in a crowded nursery row, and placed without alteration
or amendment where they are intended to remain, usually in
holes only sufficiently large to admit the roots, with the assist-
ance occasionally of an uncouth pushing of the foot, planted
at a greater depth than that at which they grew, and suffered
to put out new growth from the ends of a few straggling
branches; so that, by the time they bear fruit, its weight on
the extreme end of long limbs, causes them to bend so as to
break off" at the tree, or by bending to close the capillary tubes
on the lower side of each branch, so as to prevent the flow of
pabulum for fruit making. After three or four years of strug-
gling they die, producing, in the interim, fruit of inferior quality
and of inconsiderable quantity.

All this may be prevented by judicious treatment. In placing
the pit in the ground, don't bury, but insert, it, point down-

608 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

ward, in the nursery row, so that its soft end shall be prepared
to receive moisture. The freezing of the first winter will split
this shell, causing the tree to commence its growth with its
germ in the right position, and with its cotyledons at or above
the surface of the ground. At the proper season it may be
budded, and after the growth of this bud the original stalk
above the bud may be removed. When at sufficient age for
removing from the nursery, take it up with care without break-
ing the roots. Do not pull it up so as to disengage a large
number of its fibres, leaving them in the ground. Remove the
branches, leaving it as a simple staff. The reasons for this are
numerous. While in the nursery row, it will be found to form
more branches toward the next rows than toward the next
trees in the same row— there being most room and air between
the rows, therefore the tree is out of balance. In placing it in
its new location with all the branches on, an immense surface
would be left for the evaporation of moisture before the root is
established for its reception, ' and an unhealthy growth will
ensue ; therefore, all these branches should be removed, cut
close to the tree, and with a very sharp knife.

In placing the tree in its new location,»dig a large, deep hole,
and do not return to this hole the subsoil removed from it, but
fill it with the surface soil from its immediate vicinity, replacing
this surface soil with the subsoil taken from the hole, thus permit-
ting it to receive the influences of sun and air, and to become
surface soil by time. This hole should be three feet in diameter
and four feet deep. Do not plunge the tree up and down
when putting in the soil, nor enter it any deeper than when
growing in the nursery row. Indeed it should be one inch
higher out of the ground to compensate for the settling of the
soil during the first season. A stream of water passed down
its trunk will arrange the soil among its roots more completely
than any other means. If the upper roots near the tree be
covered with soil, or the soil be piled up fOr an inch or two
around the trunk, new roots will start from the outer surface,
and old ones will die, causing the pith in the centre of the tree,
for a few inches above the surface of the ground, to turn brown.
For each old root that dies some limb will decay, and the
peach worm will enter at the soft spots in the bark near the
root crown. When the earth is kept away from the trunk, and

PROFESSOR J. J. MAPES'S ADDRESS. 609

if the tree is not permitted to sink into the soil below its natural
depth, these difficulties will not occur, and the peach worm
will not be so apt to annoy it. During the first season, new
branches will put forth, fairly balanced on all sides of the tree.
The following spring these branches should be shortened in,
cutting next to a wood bud, and never next to a fruit bud,' re-
moving two-thirds of the new growth. This will cause the
new puttings-forth to be nearer the tree, and greater in num-
ber, so that, instead of a few straggling branches shading the
smaller ones and causing them to die out for want of air and
sun, you will have a number of branches of equal length with
each other, and of double thickness. Continue this practice
each year, and by the end of the third year you may have a
round-headed tree resembling the shape of a horse-chestnut tree,
and bearing its fruit on branches incapable of being bent by
its weight, and which will continue to bear fruit for many
years, provided the soil be annually disturbed as with other
exotics. The peach tree will not bear fine fruit without con-
tinued cultivation. Original trees, raised from the pit, and
accidentally producing good kinds, last longer than those which
are budded, simply because they are not placed too deeply in
the ground. Nature plants the pits correctly when they fall
from the tree, and therefore the cotyledons are not covered up
as with imperfectly transplanted trees for the particular accom-
modation of the peach worm. How often do we find peach
trees near stable windows, where the ends of the limbs are
bitten off by horses or cattle, bearing superior fruit ; and how
often do we find similar instances of fruit-bearing with peach
trees, a large proportion of which has been removed by acci-
dent, thus in part taking place of the shortening-in process we
have recommended.

The treatment recommended for the peach, is equally ap-
plicable to the nectarine and apricot, but should never be ap-
pealed to for other fruits.

Every practical farmer is aware of the necessity of a proper
succession of crops, and this arises from the fact that plants
receive from the soil whatever they find in solution. The
aqueous portions so received may contain the proper pabulum
for the creation of the new organism, and in addition thereto
certain materials which are not required by, and are offensive
77

610 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

to the new growth. These latter ingredients are discharged at
the roots as excrementitious matter, and these processes are con-
tinually going on.

It may be thus understood. If a cabbage be suddenly pulled
from the soil and the dirt washed from the surface of its stem,
and it then be plunged into a jar of chemically pure water, the
following phenomena will take place. After a short time the
water will become milky, and in a few hours small flocculent
particles will be seen to descend to the bottom until, if the
cabbage be of ordinary size, the jar six inches in diameter, a
deposit of one inch depth of semi-starch-like consistency will
occur. If this be poured around the roots of another cabbage
it will kill it, if poured around a beet, carrot, or parsnip, it will
materially increase its growth. Thus it will be seen that the
excrementitious matter of one plant is pabulum to another, and
hence the necessity for rotation of crops, a plant not being able
to grow in the presence of an excess of material unfriendly to,
or not required by, its organism.

Some crops do not throw off much excrementitious matter.
Thus the onion beds of Wethersfield have in some instances
been grown upon the same soil for a hundred successive years.
The farmer, therefore, in choosing the crops which should fol-
low each other, can readily decide upon them by reference to
their analysis, and avoid a repetition which would embrace
similar ultimate constituents.

A much more important branch for the consideration of the
farmer is the sub-succession of crops. This may be said to
apply more particularly to the gardener, but is fully worthy
the farmer's best consideration. Several crops may be raised
from the same soil in the same year, and despite this fact many
are contented with a crop of early cabbages, leaving the ground
in July, permitting it to be useless for the plants of the season ;
or of early potatoes dug in July or August^ in either of which
cases turnips might have been raised, Caulo Rapas, late cab-
bage, and a variety of other crops. Gardeners, by judicious
management, have some twenty or thirty different four-course
rotations for the single season. Thus let us suppose a crop of
early potatoes, planted in early spring in hills at the usual dis-
tance apart ; thirty days before these potatoes are ripe a cab-
bage plant may be set out between each four hills, making the

PROFESSOR J. J. M APES' S ADDRESS. 611

same number of cabbage plants as there are hills — just as the
white spots of a checker-board are each between four black
ones, and still are of the same number. Cabbages, during the
first thirty days of their growth, require moisture at the roots,
and in this low spot they receive it. Then also to encourage
them to strike root, they should be partially shaded. This
desideratum is supplied by the potato vine or top. During the
last thirty days' growth of the potato the top gradually dies
down, thus slowly and surely acclimating the cabbage by re-
moving the cause of shade. The digging of the potatoes proves
thorough cultivation to the babbage, such as could not be
afforded except in the gathering of a crop. Double rows of
white globe turnips may then be substituted for the potatoes
in each direction with a crop of lettuce or radishes between,
and thus four crops in the same season may be obtained. The
cultivation or stirring of the ground for all these crops, so as to
fairly compensate for the extra amount of manure which should
previously be applied where so large a product is intended.
Our time will not permit of an enumeration of all these sub-
successions, but the example given may prove sufficient to in-
duce inquiry.

The raising of root crops is equally important to the farmer;
it enables him to keep more cattle and to supply himself with
larger amounts of manure for spring use. Many of these root
crops tend to clean the soil, and some of them, too, act as
mulch for the surface of ground during winter. Tarnips do
not exhaust land materially. Slight dressings of phosphate of
lime will insure a full crop. They are easily reared, requiring
but little labor and attention, and would be found useful to
insure a variety of food for cattle, milch cows, &c. The same
value of food composed of a variety will produce more milk or
more beef than when one kind only is used. Beets are also
extremely useful as food for cattle and milch cows. Parsnips
may be raised in ground not so well suited to the growth of
other crops. The most valuable of the root crops, however, is
the carrot; for while the amount raised is as large as that of
the beet, and nearly equal to that of the turnip, its value is
many times as great for most purposes. Cows fed during the
winter in part on carrots, will furnish large quantities of milk,
which will yield butter of as good a color and quality as when

612 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

fed from clover in May. Beef cattle are readily and rapidly
fattened when caiTots form part of their food, while horses will
accept of carrots in place of half their usual quantity of oats
with benefit to themselves. No horse is troubled with heaves
when carrots form part of his food. A bushel of oats and a
bushel of carrots are more useful to the horse than two bushels
of oats, not because the carrot contains as much nutriment,
but because it enables the horse to digest the oats and appro-
priate its ultimates for flesh making, the formation of bone,&c.
When a horse is fed in part on carrots, shells of oats and pieces
of cut hay will not be found in his dung, nor will it contain a
large amount of starch, causing it to fire-fang, as when oats
are used without carrots.

The feeding of swine may be materially improved by proper
economy in the preparation of the food. It has been well set-
tled that much less than half the quantity of cooked corn will
create one hundred weight of pork to what would be required
if not so treated. The Hon. H. L. Ellsworth has settled this
fact by a comparative experiment with several hundred hogs.
Mr. P. Mason, of Somerville, has also published very accurate
experiments on this subject. He found that he could create
pork for four and a half cents per pound by the use of cooked
food, and when fed with the same class of food in the raw
state, the pork would cost ten cents per lb. in his locality.

The use of root crops in feeding cattle has been fairly settled by
the English agriculturist, and Mr. James Campbell, of Weston,
who is well known as an exact experimenter among American
farmers has published accurate results in the Working Farmer
of a course of experiments on feeding cattle with and without
the assistance of root crops, by which it is clearly shown that
a much greater profit is consequent upon their judicious use.
Mr. Campbell has also illustrated in an experiment in subsoil-
ing for corn, that on the subsoiled portipns eighty-five ears
filled a basket requiring one hundred and fifteen ears from the
un-subsoiled portions, the same amount of manure and of the
same kinds, having been used in both cases.

The value of agricultural reports, issued by state and county
agricultural societies and consequent upon the holding of fairs,
is of material value to the farming interest. These collate a
mass of information within the more immediate circle of each

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 613

farmer's acquaintance, and within reach of his own personal
investigation, which would with difficulty be arrived at by any
other means. The plan adopted by your State, in common
with many others, has been productive of much good. Many
of these reports contain essays on agriculture of extreme value.
Thus the essays by Professor Norton, published in the New
York State Report, may be classed among the very best papers
extant on chemistry as applied to agriculture, and among
many of my correspondents I have found quotations from
his essay, and giving evidence of having applied the truths
there learned in the principal operation of their farms. Ad-
dresses of a practical kind are also published, and these help
to make up a compendium of all the current improvements of
the day, placing them before practical men for indorsement or
refutation.

FACTS IN RELATION TO THE GERMINATION
AND GROWTH OF INDIAN CORN.

[Extracts from an Address Delivered at the last Fair of the Hampshire, Franklin
and Hampden Jlgricxdtural Society, October 7, 1852. By John Stanton
Gould, of Hudson, N. Y.]

The first point in connection with germination, is, that the
soil shall be of the proper temperature. Every different plant
has its germinating temperature, or rather 3. rang-e of tempera-
ture, peculiar to itself. Thus, wheat cannot germinate except
between 45° and 95'°. Corn will not vegetate unless the
temperature of the soil attains to 55"^, and at a temperature
higher than 110° it equally refuses to germinate. This is
a matter of great practical importance, the neglect of which
diminishes the production of corn far more than most farmers
have ever dreamed of The chit alone, contains the germ ;
all other portions of the kernel are mere reservoirs of nutriment
for the germ, until it is enabled to draw its sustenance from
other sources. Now if the seed is deposited in the soil at a
lower temperature than 55°, we have seen that there can be
no germination ; meanwhile, if cold, wet weather continues

614 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

some time after planting, a chemical change is produced, the
corneous and starchy portions are decomposed and dissolved
by the rain water, and are diffused through the soil ; hence
when the soil attains to a temperature sufficiently elevated to
start the germ into activity, the plumulus and the radicle show
themselves, but finding no nourishment to support them, they
wither and die. This is a great evil, because the labor and
expense of replanting must be incurred, and this process must
be performed so late in the season, that the risk of frost before
ripening is very much increased. But this is not the greatest
evil ; it sometimes happens that the soil attains to 55° before
the corneous and starchy portions are ivholly decomposed. In
this case, there is just enough of these substances left to give
the plant vitality, and no more. It lives through a feeble and
morbid existence, but it never recovers its vigor; the crop is
deficient in quantity and quality, and proves unremunerative
to the cultivator. Much of the damage which is supposed to
arise from planting in the wrong time of the moon, is really
due to planting when the soil is at the wrong temperature, and
if the time ever arrives when the average crop of the country
is equal to what our premium crops now are, it must be when
every farmer owns a thermometer and knows how to use it.

The second point essential to germination is moisture.

It is a very general law of chemical affinity, that when two
substances combine chemically, one of them must be in a fluid
state. Since a very active play of chemical affinities takes
place as soon as germination commences, it follows that the
substances enveloped in the grain, which are the objects of
these affinities, must have access to a sufficient amount of
water for their solution and to act as a vehicle for their distri-
bution through the tender vessels of the germ.

The third point to be observed in the germination of corn is
seclusion from light. You all know that^ight is a compound
body, that can be separated into seven distinct colors, by
means of a prism ; but it may not be known to some of you,
that there are other distinct ingredients or agencies in the
solar ray, separate and distinct from its light-giving properties :
one of these is the heat-giving ray ; the other the chemical
ray, by virtue of which the chemical changes due to light are
produced in the growing plant. It has been found, by repeated

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 615

experiments, that the relative amount of these rays vary with
the changes of the seasons. In the spring, a solar beam con-
tains the greatest proportion of chemical rays ; in summer the
greatest proportion of light, and in autumn the greatest pro-
portion of heat. The action of these solar rays is adverse to
germination, because they prevent the formation of diastase,
which, as we shall see, is indispensable in the early stages of
the plant.

The fourth point to be noticed in the process of germination
is access of atmospheric air. It is impossible for germination
to go on in the absence of air, even when all the other condi-
tions of warmth, moisture, and seclusion from light are the
most favorable. Thus we see seeds, which have been depos-
ited deep in the ground for years without germination, have
sprouted readily when brought to the surface and allowed to
come in contact with the atmosphere.

If a few kernels of corn are made to germinate under an
inverted tumbler, it is found that though there is no material
change in the bulk of the air contained in it, yet there has
been a most marked change in its chemical composition. The
oxygen is absorbed and its bulk is replaced by carbonic acid.
This proves that the absorption of oxygen is essential to ger-
mination, and accounts for the necessity for the presence of
air, which is the great reservoir of this element. You are
aware that after the plant begins to unfold its leaves, and to
derive its whole nourishment from the soil and the atmosphere,
it gives out oxygen and absorbs carbonic acid, as long as it is
acted on by the chemical solar ray ; but when that is with-
drawn, and the earth is covered with the mantle of night, it
entirely reverses its operations ; it then gives out carbonic acid
and absorbs oxygen. Now, as we have seen, that the germin-
ating plant must perform the latter process, and that the
chemical portion of the solar ray induces an expulsion of
oxygen, we see an additional reason for guarding our seeds
from the intrusion of light.

I trust I shall not be accused of trifling with your time in
dwelling so long on these matters, apparently so trivial. I do
not so consider them. Much of the vigor of a plant and the
amount of its produce depend upon its germination. If this
is effected under circumstances the most favorable to its progress,

616 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

the plant will, throughout the whole of its growth, be superior
to another plant which has germinated under less favorable
circumstances, even though the latter be favored with a soil
equally rich, and an atmosphere equally genial. It is impos-
sible to lay down any rules for planting corn, which will
insure its germination most advantageously. Keeping the
principles just adverted to in view, we must determine the
proper mode of conforming to them by repeated and careful
experiments in each locality. In loose sandy soils, where the
atmosphere can readily permeate to a considerable depth, it is
best to plant deep in order to increase the moisture ; but in
stiff soils, the planting should be as shallow as is consistent
with the perfect exclusion of light.

Let me once more repeat, that if the average crop of corn
in this State is ever to be raised to what is now the maximum
production, much more attention must be paid to the germina-
tion of the seed than has ever been given before.

I have already stated that the germ of the corn first develops
itself in the plumule and the radicle. These consist merely of
vessels composed of the cellular fibre of Payen, which is a
substance, intermediate between starch and woody fibre ; no
true wood is developed until the first true leaves make their
appearance.

The first chemical transformation effected in the seed as
nourishment for the expanding germ, is the conversion of the
starchy portion into vinegar, and the nitrogenous portion into
diastase. I do not know what function is performed by vine-
gar, nor how it nourishes the plant, but the function of diastase
has been pretty well ascertained by chemists. It possesses the
property first of making starch soluble in water. You know
the vessels of the germ are so miimte, that a body of the mag-
nitude of a grain of starch, merely mechanically suspended in
water, would choke them up, and all circulation, and. conse-
quently all life, would be destroyed. Since the starch of the
kernel is the food provided by nature for the sustenance .of the
young plant, until it is provided with organs by which it can
procure its food from the earth and the atmosphere, we are
able to understand the value of the provision by which dias-
tase is formed at the very base of the germ. It dissolves the
starch of the seed, and thus enables it to circulate through the

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 617

delicate vessels of the germ. It does more than this ; after
having effected the solution of the starch, it converts it gradu-
ally into sugar, which is essential to the existence of the
young plant. When the starch of the kernel is wholly con-
verted into sugar, the first true leaves and the first true roots
appear, and henceforth it is fitted to draw its nourishment from
other sources ; it has entered on an independent existence.

In the rapid sketch of the history of the growth of the corn
plant which I have laid before you, I stated that in eight days
after planting, the weight of the plants above the ground on an
acre, was 27|^ lbs. In forty-five days afterwards, their weight
was 5,139 lbs., and in ninety-one days after this, their weight
was 31,389 lbs. We perceive from these facts, that there has
been an average daily addition to. the weight of the plants of
231 lbs.

It is a question of the greatest importance in practical agri-
culture, How can plants be made to take up and assimilate
the greatest possible amount of food ? We cannot answer
this question intelligently, before we have learned the sub-
stances which enter into the composition of the corn plant.

When the leaves of the plants first appear, 89.6 per cent, of
their weight is water, 10.4 per cent, is dry matter, and of this
dry matter 13 per cent, is ash or inorganic matter. Hence the
plants on an acre, at the first formation of the leaves, contain
27 lbs. of water, 3.13 lbs. dry matter, and nearly half a pound
of ash. When the plants are in full flower, 87 per cent, of
their weight is water, 12.92 per cent, is dry matter, the ash
constituting 8.82 per cent, of the dry matter. Wiien the corn
is ripe, 61.20 per cent, of the weight of the plant is water, 38.79
per cent, is dry matter, and the ash is 4.1 18 per cent, of the
dry matter ; consequently the weight of the plants on an
acre is made up of 21,077 lbs. of water, 13,361 lbs. of dry
matter, and 549 lbs. of ash. The relative proportions of water
and dry matter remain very nearly the same in all the various
stages of the growth of the plant, until after the period of flow-
ering ; from thence the water regularly diminishes up to the
period of perfect ripeness. Something may be done by the
farmer to furnish this large amount of water, but his main
business is with the supply of the dry matter. This dry mat-
ter is composed of two distinct substances, one of which may
78

618 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

be destroyed by fire. The other is indestructible by fire. The
destructible portion is called the organic ; the indestructible is
called the inorganic, and is contained in the ash of the plant.

The greatest relative amount of inorganic matter is about
the tenth day after the first appearance of the plant. From
the period of flowering the relative amount diminishes rapidly
until the plant is fully ripe, but it must be remembered, that
this diminution is only relative. The absolute weight continues
to increase through every period of its growth.

The ivhole of the inorganic portion of the plant is derived
from the soil. If not naturally contained in it, the art and
labor of the husbandman is called in requsition to supply it.
A portion of the organic matter is derived from the atmosphere.
Some theorists maintain that the whole of it is supplied from
this source, while others concur with the whole body of prac-
tical farmers, that a portion of this supply is drawn from the
earth. It is very certain that corn invariably flourishes best
where the soil is rich in substances which contain the elements
of organic matter.

Organic matter is made up of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and
nitrogen. The air is composed of oxygen and nitrogen. Water
is a compound of oxygen and hydrogen.

A small quantity (say one gallon in 2,500) of carbonic acid
gas is diffused through the atmosphere, but not chemically
united with it, and although there is only one gallon of this
gas in 2,500 gallons of air, this alone forms an ample supply
for all the purposes of vegetation. The source of the supply
of nitrogen to plants was not ascertained before Liebig's cele-
brated discovery of the existence of ammonia in the air, which
is washed down by every shower of rain, and thus brought
into direct contact with the organs of the plant.

All organic substances contained in corn are formed by a
union of three or more of these substances. Thus sugar,
starch, and gum, are formed from the union of hydrogen,
oxygen, and carbon, in different proportions. Gluten, albu-
men, and caseine, contain these substances, with the addition
of nitrogen.

It follows, therefore, that all these compounds may derive
their elements from the atmosphere, although in practise they
obtain a portion from the soil.

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 619

The amount of inorganic matter taken from an acre of soil
by the small white flint corn, whose history we have been de-
scribing, is 881.85 lbs.; which is made up of the substances
following: Silicic acid 210.14 lbs., phosphates of iron, lime,
and magnesia, 94.58 lbs., potash 64.71 lbs., soda 63 lbs, lime
15.69 lbs., magnesia 9.69 lbs., chlorine 19.62 lbs., sulphuric acid
30.34 lbs.

Of organic matter, there are taken from one acre 22,546 lbs.
Of this amount, 2,892 lbs. consists of sugar and extract, 5,139
lbs. of starch, which is found solely in the kernel, 15 lbs. of
rosin, found only in the cob, 11,526 lbs. of fibre, 817 lbs. of
albumen, 396 lbs. of caseine, 143 lbs. of zein, found only in the
kernel, 10.27 lbs. of dextrine or gum, 312 lbs. oil, found only
in the kernel, 171| lbs. chlorophyl and wax, and 420 lbs. of
glutinous matter.

Of this 22,546 lbs. of organic matter removed from the soil,
8,008 lbs. is taken off by the kernels, leaving 14,538 lbs. for the
rest of the plant. Since these portions are most usually re-
tained on the farm, and find their way back to the soil in the
shape of manure, the 8,008 lbs. carried off by the kernels is all
that needs to be provided from foreign sources, to keep up the
fertility of the soil.

Of the 881 lbs. of inorganic matter removed from an acre
of soil by a crop of the small white flint variety of corn, 99 lbs.
are contained in the kernels, leaving 782 lbs. in the remainder
of the crop, which is restored to the soil in the form of manure.

We have seen from the preceding chemical and physiologi-
cal history of the corn plant, that the following conditions are
essential to its growth, viz. : 1st, heat ; 2d, moisture ; 3d, air ;
4th, light; 5th, a supply of 22,546 lbs. of organic and 881 lbs.
of inorganic matter upon each acre.

Let us consider how far the skill and labor of the farmer can
be brought to bear upon the improvement of the crop under
each of these points.

I. The farmer may secure an increased temperature in va-
rious ways : 1st, by aspect. It is found that on first rising
from the sea-shore, the air becomes one degree colder for every
200 feet of perpendicular ascent, and altogether 50 degrees
colder in rising 15,000 feet. Lands lying nearest to the level
of the sea enjoy the highest temperature. Again, lands hav-

620 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

ing a southern aspect are much warmer than those sloping
towards the north. By selecting southern slopes, we may,
even here, obtain the climate of South Carolina. Much of the
success of a New England farmer, in raising corn profitably,
will depend on the judicious selection of those portions of his
farm where the highest temperature can be obtained. The
coldest portions may be devoted to oats, the intermediate por-
tions to wheat, barley and potatoes ; but corn loves a high
temperature, and should always be planted where this condi-
tion can be most perfectly fulfilled.

2d. The temperature of the soil may also be increased by
thorough drainage. While water remains in the soil, evapora-
tion goes on at all temperatures. You know that when water
passes from a liquid state to vapor, it is because the heat ab-
sorbed by the water overcomes the mutual attraction of its
particles, driving them asunder until they become vapor. No
portion of the heat thus employed is sensible to the thermom-
eter ; it is therefore called latent heat. It is found by experi-
ment, that just 1,000 times as much heat is rendered latent by
the vaporization of water, as would raise the temperature of
the liquid water just one degree. It is easy to see that a con-
stant evaporation of the stagnant water, resting on the imper-
vious subsoil, must carry off an enormous amount of sensible
heat, or, in other words, it must keep the surface too cold for
the profitable growth of Indian corn. Underdraining and sub-
soil ploughing will enable the farmer to plant from a week to
a fortnight earlier, germination is effected more perfectly, the
roots have a greater range for procuring food, it is less affected
by drought, and insures a temperature better fitted to promote
the chemical transformations necessary for the tissues of the
plant, than could be obtained while the water rests on the
subsoil.

3d. There is another mode of increasing the temperature of
a' soil, which maybe practised under certain circumstances,
that is, by changing the color of the soil. Black surfaces
absorb much more heat than light colors, as is well known to
every school boy. If powdered charcoal is sprinkled on a cold
soil, by absorbing the sun's rays it conveys much heat to the
soil, besides operating usefully as a manure.

11. A sufficient amount of moisture is essential to the

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 621

growth of corn. This has been shown from the great amount
of water existing in the plant. It is also necessary to dissolve
the saline and organic constituents of the soil, because they
cannot enter into the plant except in a state of solution.

Moisture may be secured for the plant, 1st, by irrigation.
This process would be too expensive to be profitable, except
in a very few localities, and I therefore pass over it with the
simple allusion to its possibility. 2d. Moisture may be in-
creased by deep ploughing, subsoiling, and thorough pulveri-
zation. By deep ploughing and subsoiling, the roots have
access to a stratum less affected by evaporation, and which
therefore is more abundantly supplied with moisture. By
thorough pulverization, we enable the moisture from below to
pass upward by capillary attraction. More dew also is de-
posited on a well pulverized surface than on a hard one.

III. Access of air is also essential to the growth of corn. No
matter how rich a soil may be in vegetable matter, it cannot
possibly yield any food to the crop in the absence of air, be-
cause it can only be absorbed by the plant in a state of trans-
formation induced by its combination with oxygen. Other
things being equal, those soils bear the greatest crops of corn
which are most readily permeated by air.

" In a soil to which the air has no access, or at most but
very little, the remains of animals and vegetables do not decay,
for they can only do so when freely supplied with oxygen, but
they undergo putrefaction, for which air is present in sufficient
quantity. Putrefaction is known to be a most powerful deox-
idizing process, the influence of which extends to all surround-
ing bodies, even to the roots and the plants themselves. All
substances from which oxygen can be extracted yield it to
putrefying bodies; yellow oxide of iron passes into the state
of black oxide, sulphate of iron into sulphuret of iron, &c.

" The frequent renewal of air, especially its contact with alka-
line metallic oxides, the ashes of brown coal, burnt lime or
limestone, change the putrefaction of its organic constituents
into a pure process of oxidation; and from the moment at
which all the organic matter existing in a soil enters into a
state of oxidation or decay, its fertility is increased. The
oxygen is no longer employed for the conversion of the brown,
soluble matter, into the insoluble coal of humus, but serves for

622 SELECTIONS FROM .ADDRESSES.

the production of carbonic acid." from which, a* we have al-
ready shown, a great proportion of the or^nic portion of the
plant is derived-

The access of air to the roots of the plant may be promoted
by the farmer in varions ways. Among these, the first in im-
portance is thorough pulverisation of the soil by the plough. A
diderence in the crop of from 30 to 50 per cent, has been real-
ized from precisely similar soils, in consequence of the arreater
thoroughness with vrhich this process has been performed. Its
importance is acknowledged by every farmer, yet it is astonish-
ing how carelessly this operation is performed in the great ma-
jority of eases.

In England, the furrows are laid so straight that vou would
think the pencil rather than the plough had traced them, and
every portion of the soil is carefully brought under the action
of the share. In Flanders, this necessity for thorough pulver-
ization is so fully appreciated, that the spade is brought into
requisition, and every spade full turned over is thoroughly
beaten to powder. This c-annot be done in our countrv, so
high is the price of labor, but vast improvement may be effected
without increase of cost- by a more careful training of otur
plotighmen and a more careful selection of our ploughs.

Having been one of the judges at the great trials of ploughs
at Albany, by the New York Agricultural Society. I had an
opportunity which falls to the lot of few farmers, of seeing the
wide difference with respect to pulverizarion in the acrion of
different implements. Over forty ploughs were entered for
competition, and a fortnight was spent in testing them, under
every possible variety of conditions. Some ploughs would
turn the furro\r over very handsomely, but when turned, it was
as hard and unyielding as the land which had not been
ploughed, and in fact it was in a condition very little better for
the production of com than the original green sward itself:
while other implements reduced it to powder so fine, that a
common hand rake would render it fit for a garden bed. This
was especially the case with those manufactured by Prouty &
Meats, of Boston, "which produced a more thorough pulveriza-
tion, with less expenditure of power, than any others. Soils
prepared by their plouarhs, and especially their sod and subsoil
plough, were in a condirion to afford the freest access of air,

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 623

which, entering into combination with the vegetable matter
contained in it, affords an abundant supply of food to the
plant, in a condition i»ost favorable for assimilation.

K we desire to raise our average crops to the standard of
premium crops, and thus quadruple the annual production, we
must have better ploughmen and the best of ploughs.

IV. Free exposure to the light is necessary for the produc-
tion of maximum crops of corn.

The corn plant is filled with capillary tubes ; through these
the moisture of the soil, holding in solution the various organic
and inorganic matters, are sucked up by the spongeoles of the
root, and conveyed to the upper surface of the leaves. Here
an entire change is effected in the chemical character of the
solution by the action of the solar ray ; under the influence of
this potent agency, the carbonic acid is deprived of its oxygen,
while its carbon unites with the elements of water to form
starch, sugar, gum and woody fibre ; at the same time a play
of affinities is induced among the inorganic compounds, by
which the elements of the one are variously compounded with
the elements of the other, changing entirely their previous
chemical characters. After these changes are effected, the sap
passes to the under side of the leaf, and firom thence is diffused
to the other portions of the plant, each of which derives firom
it the kind of food suited to their several nec-essities, until it is
robbed of all its useful portions, when it is excreted again from
the roots, after having performed the whole circuit of the plant.
This chemical action of light upon the corn plant is explained
by philosophers, in conformity with their views of the nature
of light. Such as believe in the materiality of light, explain
the change which occurs in the sap on the upper surface of the
leaf, by asserting that the sunbeam is chemically united vrith
the other constituents, thus forming a new compound. They
assert that the light and heat given out by the combustion of
vegetable bodies, is simply a giving up of the light and heat
which it had formerly imbibed from the sun. Thus, coal is
represented as the charred remains of the vegetable antediluvian
world, which had drank in the heat and light of the primeval
sun. After keeping those rays imprisoned for siges. thev give
out Eigain in our grates the identical heat and light emined by
an ancient sun, which shone upon a world lying in chaos.

624 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

Those who believe in the immateriality of light, account for
this change, by a catalytic force residing in the sun beam,
which induces a transformation of the sap simply by its pres-
ence. However widely philosophers may differ in their mode
of accounting for its action, they all agree that the action of
light is indispensable for healthy vegetation, and that the
growth and vigor of plants is diminished in proportion to the
degree of their seclusion from it.

Hence when corn is planted in drills, the direction of the
rows should be from north to south, in order that both sides of
the plants may receive their proportion of sunlight. When
planted from east to west, the northern side has only access to
the diffused and never to the direct rays, hence the plant is
more feeble and the crop less abundant.

Experiment has shown, that a greater amount of food is ob-
tained from an acre of land when potatoes, beets, turnips or
cabbages are planted in intermediate rows between the corn,
as the latter has then a much better access to air and light,
than when planted in the usual manner. It can scarcely be
necessary to say in the presence of this audience, that corn
growing in the shade of trees or buildings is unproductive, and
that it should be carefully avoided, if the farmer seeks for profit
from his field.

I have now passed in review those conditions which are in-
dispensable for the production of maximum crops of corn, and
which operate chiefly by preparing the food of the plant to
assimilate itself with its substance. It now remains for me to
speak —

V. Of the food of plants. I have already stated that a crop
of the small flint corn removes from the soil 22,546 lbs. of
organic, and 881 lbs. of inorganic matter. It must be borne in
mind, however, that every variety of corn removes different
amounts from the soil. Some of the larger varieties will ab-
sorb a much greater amount of organic, and double the amount
of inorganic matter, than is taken off by the variety under con-
sideration. It is evident to the dullest comprehension, that if
successive crops are taken f.om the soil, with no returns to
compensate for the loss, it will ullimately become exhausted;
no more of the proper food of corn remaining in it, it will cease
to grow.

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 625

Two great practical questions, therefore, present themselves
to the practical farmer. How shall he replace the elements of
the substances abstracted from the soil by the crop in the most
economical manner? How shall he cause those elements to
combine most easily, so as to cause the greatest amount of
growth and nutrition for the crop ?

These questions must not be confounded with each other.
It is possible to have an abundance of food in the soil, yet if
it is not in such a state as to afford nourishment to the plant,
the soil might as well have been barren for all practical pur-
poses. The farmer's wife may have plenty of flour in her
pantry, and since flour is food, she may truthfully say she has
an abundance of food in the house ; but if she neglects to pre-
pare it for the stomach, by converting it into bread, her family
may perish with hunger, in the midst of the elements of plenty.
As an illustration of this, you will please to remember, that
both potash and silica are constituents of the corn plant.
Silica may exist in great abundance in the soil, yet the plant
cannot obtain a particle of it for its necessities, so long as it
remains as simple silica. It must first be combined with pot-
ash, forming a soluble silicate of potash, before it is available
as food for the plant. Now silica requires one-half its weight
of potash to convert it into a soluble silicate, and little more
than one-quarter of its weight of potash is found in the plant.
It follows, therefore, that unless there is a greater amount of
potash in the soil than is absolutely necessary for the plant,
it must be literally starved for lack of silica. Again, there
may be enough of potash in the soil, yet if it is combined with
bodies for which it has a greater affinity than it has for silica,
it can perform no useful office towards the plant in the supply
of silica.

It is not enough that an amount of food is contained in the
soil just sufficient for the crop. In such a case, all the ener-
gies of the plant are directed towards procuring its food;
hence too little of its powers can be expended on its assimila-
tion, to return a remunerative crop. It is necessary that the
food should be supplied in such abundance, that the plant can
obtain it easily and without eflbrt. In this case all its energies
are expended, as they ought to be, on the production of grain.

It follows from what has been said — 1st, that all the ele-
79

626 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

ments of the crop mnst be contained in the soil in abundance;
2d, they must be in such a state as to form the proper com-
pounds ; 3d, there mus^ be no deleterious matters existing in
the soil. When these conditions are fulfilled, maximum crops
may be obtained.

The quantity of organic matter in soils varies from one-half
to 70 per cent, of their whole weight. Corn cannot grow with
so small a proportion as the former, nor would its cultivation
be profitable when it is as great as the latter. Good corn
soils contain about five per cent, of organic matter, and the
very best rarely contain more than ten per cent. The re-
mainder of the soil consists of pulverized rocks, formed either
from the layers beneath them or brought from a distance by
the agency of aqueous currents.

An analysis of the soil will show its actual condition, and
will enable the farmer to add what is lacking and neutralize
what is deleterious.

It may be useful to mention the amount required of hog
manure or cow manure, to supply the materials of a crop
of corn, such as we have been describing. To supply the
silicic acid 12,400 lbs. of hog manure, or 13,200 lbs. of cow
manure, would be required. For the sulphuric acid, 20,000
lbs. of hog manure, or 15,800 lbs. cow manure. For the
phosphoric acid, 8,860 lbs. hog manure, or 22,900 lbs. of cow
manure. For the lime, 16,000 lbs. of hog or cow manure.
For the magnesia, 23.700 lbs. hog manure, or 18,600 lbs. of
cow manure. For the potash, 54,100 lbs. hog manure, or
25,000 lbs. cow manure. For the soda, 16,100 lbs. of hog
manure, or 10,600 lbs. cov7 manure. P'or the chlorine, 180,900
lbs. of hog manure, and ten times as much of cow manure.
Clijorophyl and wax, 40,700 lbs. of hog manure, or 42,700 lbs.
cow manure. For the fibre, 91,000 lbs. hog manure, or 95,000
lbs. cow manure. For the dextrine or gum, 66,200 lbs. hog,
or 68,600 lbs. cow manure. For the sugar and extract,
375,000 lbs. of hog or cow manure. For the albumen, 30,800
lbs. of hog, or 19,300 lbs. of cow manure. And for the caseine,
19,000 lbs. of hog, o.- 28,200 lbs. of cow manure.

We have already explained that a part of the sugar, starch,
and fibre are obtained directly from the atmosphere, while the
remainder is drawn in through the roots. Since this portion

JOHN S. GOULD'S ADDRESS. 627

alone is to be provided by the manure, we may safely assume,
that when once the soil is brought into a proper state, 25 tons
of manure will be sufficient to maintain its fertility for the
corn crop.

Although we may replace all the elements of a corn crop,
with the exception of the chlorine, by hog or cow manure, yet
many of these elements may be given to the soil more cheaply,
and in a state better fitted for assimilation, in the form of
mineral manures, such as lime, potash, gypsum, nitrate of
soda, etc. But a discussion of these topics would swell this
already too tedious Address to a length which would be insup-
portable. It therefore only remains for me to remark, in con-
clusion, that there is a great variety of species of Indian corn,
each of which differs greatly from the rest, in the amount of
organic and inorganic matter which it derives from the soil,
and also in the chemical character of the grains. Some of the
species are adapted to making muscle, others to making
fat. They differ, too, widely in the length of time they
require in coming to maturity. For example, the small eight-
rowed yellow Canada corn was ripe in 108 days from the time
it was planted, while the Rocky Mountain variety requires 140
days. There is also a difference in the weight of corn, of dif-
ferent varieties, on an acre. Thus 10 lbs. 12 oz. of Long Island
corn grow on a given space, while 15 lbs. 2 oz. of the large
twelve-rowed red variety grow on the same space of a precisely
similar soil. The late large white flint corn yields 2.4 tons of
grain to the. acre, on the same soil \vhere the large twelve-
rowed yellow Sioux yields 3.5 tons to the acre. The large
eight-rowed yellow corn contains 13.9 per cent of albumen,
caseine and gluten, while the Sioux contains 16.5 per cent, of
these substances. The latter is, therefore, most profitable as
food for working oxen or horses, because it is the nitrogenized
substances which go to repair the waste of muscle. The
eight-rowed Squaw corn contains of starch, sugar, oil and gum,
(which are the fat making portions of the grain,) 60.6 percent.,
while the eight-rowed small white flint corn contains 76.6 per
cent, of those substances. If, therefore, we wish to use corn
for fattening cattle or hogs, the latter is far more valuable. If
the Squaw corn is worth 50 cents per bushel, the flint would
be equally cheap at 58 cents per bushel. Each of these

62S SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSER.

varieties is adapted to a special climate and soU ; each is
adapted for its own favorite locality ; here it will best develop
its richness, and here best reward the labors of the husband-
man. I have shown that the arg^e twelve-rowed red corn vield-
ed on a certain soil and climate 15 lbs. 2 oz. of corn, while the
Long Island corn only yielded 10 lbs. 12 oz. ; but on a different
soil and with a different climate, this result would be reversed,
and the Long Island would exceed the eight-rowed in its re-
turns. Within the boundaries of your society, vrixh its north-
em climate, and its early frosts, the Canada corn, which rip>en5
a month earlier than the Rocky Mountain com, would have
the preference, while in \ irginia the protracted ripening woidd
be no objection. Where corn is to be used as food for man,
or- horses, and working cattle, those species which abound in
nitrogenious compounds should be preferred, while, for fatten-
ing hogs and cattle, those species should be preferred which
contain the greatest amounts of starch, sugar, gum, and oiL

In view of these facts, you will agree with me that more at-
tenrlon should be paid, by such fasoiers as desire to obtain
maximum crops, to the adaptation of the varieties they may
plant to the special circumstances of their farms. A few
varieties should be planted in detached portions every year,
and their produce acctu-ately weighed and measured, until the
variety is found best adapted to the farm, thencefonh that
alone which has proved to be the best should be planted,
taking care that the earliest and best ears are alone selected
for seed-

AS AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION THE GREAT
NEED OF THE AMERICAN AGRICULTURIST.

[EiiracLsfrom an Address, ddirered al the last Fair of the .XorfoUi ^Agricultural
Society, by W. S. Ki5g, Esq., of Rhode Island.]

The lawyer is educated with a constant reference to his
future profession; he is trained to the law; and having mas-
tered its mysteries, he is fitted for the conflicts of the court-
room. Armed with an appropriate education, he stands forth
the champion of injured innocence, and with strong hand drags

W. S. KING'S ADDRESS. 629

vice to pnuishment The physician acqxdres from books and
observation, the practice of the healing art. \«rhich renders him
a minister of mercy in om- dwellings. The s{>ecial servant of
GJod, whose errand is to " warn men everywhere to repent."
and to comfort the parting soul about to wing its way on a
dim and tmrried jonmey. learns to imderstand and expomid
His will by a carefnl and c-ontinned pemsal of the writings of
the good and the learned. The shipwright, before he is able
to launch upon the deep those models of marine architecture,
which, whether proj>elled by sail or steam, have alike carried
our starry flaff in triumph on the sea. has been apprenticed to
a finished master of his craft, and has pored, dreary hours
Ion?, over models, and lines, and rules laid down in books.
The painter, who sketches with magic touch the glo\ring land-
scape, or the "human form divine." has prepared himself for
those light and apparently careless touches that reveal the
master, by previotis toil and study. The mason, who rears
your house-wails, and spans the swift stream with the striding
arch, has had his year? of apprenticeship and study. And
why not, then, the farmer ? Why. alone of men. is he who
works in the laboratory of nattire. and has to do with the
secrets of animal and vegetable life ; on whom the world de-
pends for its subsistence, — why is he. alone, to be piloted in
his operations by the scarcely-visible footsteps of his fore-
fathers, aided by guess work ?

The object of agricultural education is to make practical
farmers. And here, at the very outset, we differ — wide apart
as the antipodes — from many of our calling, as to what consti-
tutes a practical farmer. By many, he only is called such,
who works daily with his own hands. His dress comes into
the calculation too : a black broadcloth coat of the prevailing
fashion would be destructive to his claims : a patent leather
shoe, or a glove, would ruin his reputation, however great
might be his knowledge. A hand hard and horny as a horse's
hoof is a sine qua non. Mark how extremes meet. The
Broadway dandy, who. with wasp waist and mincing eait
lounges along the shady sidewalk, and the brawny farmer,
who dares both sun and snow, are alike vain of their hands I
But the hands of the one, to be a /<i mode, must resemble a
nether mill-stone, while the other s rival the velvety softness of

630 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

a cat's earl Deny it who may, one's claims to be called a
practical farmer are generally judged by outward appearances.
His hands, are they hard — showing labor ? His dress, is it
coarse — to stand work? His boots, are they of cowhide, and
heavy ? All tending to prove that it is the amount of labor
that a man performs with his own hands, and not his mental
qualifications and proficiency, that procures the verdict in his
favor. Yet, according to the ordinary definition of a practical
farmer, the patient ox might put in a pretty fair claim. His
hands and boots are harder than his biped brother's ; his dress
is stouter, and is of the same stuff that his great-grandfather
wore ; and he toils, at the plough or at the cart-tongue, all the
day and every day. But, gentlemen, this is not my definition
of a practical farmer. Clothed in what dress it pleaseth him
to wear, with hands hardened by toil or not, in this land of
common schools and of general intelligence, ^Hhe mixd is the
measure of the man."

Because yonder individual came from the hands of his
Maker small in stature, does it necessarily follow that in all
the practical employments of life, or even in those that seem
to require the most physical strength, he must be the inferior
of his stalwart brother, who stands "six feet in his stockings?"
Stand, then, awhile, upon the quarter-deck of a ship, as she
strips for a contest with the storm. The bullying winds roar
around her, the dark sky seems to descend upon her, the angry
waves lift up their heads, threatening to ingulf her. That
tempest-tost bark, now piercing the clouds with her trembling
masts, now driving headlong into the yawning trough of the
sea, is freighted with human souls. Who now trusts to the
boasted strength of his right arm ? who feels security in the
height of his stature ? All turn their anxious eyes upon the
practical sailor, who commands the craft, — a man puny in
person, very possibly ; with clean, delicate hands, sporting,
mayhap, a seal ring ; dressed as if holding tar in contempt, —
he alone, with the blessing of God, without which we can do
nothing, can rescue those giant sons of the ocean from 'their
imminent peril. And, when storm-driven from their course,
he alone can pilot them in safety to the desired haven. If,
then, in the hour of danger, when Death rages for his prey and
a yawning sea shows the ready grave, men acknowledge the

W. S. KING'S ADDRESS. 631

might of mind ; why is it that in the peaceful occupation of
agriculture, you will set up sinews before it?

As we cast our eyes over the country, we see it traversed in
every direction by roads of iron ; mighty hills are demolished,
wide valleys are filled up, and swift streams are spanned by
viaducts. The neigh of the steam-horse wakes the echoes, far
and near ; as, with eyes of fire and breath of pitchy smoke, he
rushes along his iron road with the roar and the strength of
the avalanche. Now if there are things that practical men
can surely do, the piling of dirt and stones into a long narrow
heap ; and the digging down of banks of earth ; and the ham-
mering of iron and the putting together of bolts and nuts and
plates, must be among them. But we do not give to the
thousands of brawny workmen, who ply pick and spade, the
honor of building the railroad ; nor do we credit to the faithful
smith, who, obedient to directions, has wrought out a rod, and
again hammered out a plate, the performances of the finished
locomotive.

By and by, — as all now admit that a man may be a finished
practical sailor, who does not defile his palms with pitch, or
oakum, or rattlin-stuff; and as one may claim to be a practical
builder, rearing huge structures of granite, bridging rivers, and
moving mountains, who does not harden his hands by use of
spade, pick, or crow ; so will we acknowledge that a man may
be a practical farmer, competent to the management of acres,
who does not toil all the day long at the plough-tail. To farm
well, as to direct any other operation w^ell, the "super" must
thoroughly understand how things ought to be done ; and then
the proverb will be found to hold true of farming, as of most
things else, — " the eye of the master is of more value than his
hands."

A great bug-bear to plain farmers, and a lion in the path of
agricultural advancement, is Science. You have allowed
yourselves to indulge the idea that a scientific farmer is one
who goes a-field with his mouth crammed full of hard words,
and his arms filled with gallipots from the drug-store. The
manure for an acre of land, you have made him declare, he
can carry in one vest pocket ; and thereupon you retort, that
the resultant crop he will be able to convey home in the other.
Common opinion has stuffed his coat pocket with books, and

632 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

his hat with pamphlets; and even from out his bosom peep
papers, covered with calculations and estimates. Thus armed
by the bookseller and the apothecary, you push him forth to
the hay-field." Ask him when ought hay to be cut, — in the
flower or in the seed, — and he answers from " Vol. G, page
281." Speak of the depth of ploughing or the quantity of
manure to the acre; and you cause him to squat on the wall,
till he can consult the tables of contents of a score of treatises,
and read out the recorded experience of an hundred theorizers.

This man of print and pepper-boxes is not entirely the crea-
ture of your own creation ; there are originals of this portrait, —
men of mere pretensions to scientific acquirements, the more
supercilious and presuming in proportion to their shallowness.
These are the chaps who have created in the minds of farmers
a prejudice against that science, of which they pretend to be
teachers. These pretenders, these mere book-farmers build
theories, and then try to twist and squeeze facts to accord
with them. *********

These are the men who have brought ridicule upon science,
instead of concentrating it upon themselves.

Now science is simply knowledge reduced to a system ; and
this system which has worked wonders in every other depart-
ment of industry, we commend to you. Of water, science
has built bridges thousands of miles long, and upon this race-
course of nations she has placed and propels steamers and
sailing craft, plying with the regularity and despatch of an
ordinary ferry boat. The sun has been instructed as a portrait
painter. The lightning is harnessed as an express-man. And
of late, we learn that the air we breathe has been made to
labor in the cylinders of Ericsson with a force superior to
l^team. These are the triumphs of science, — of systematic
knowledge.

Justice calls science to her aid. They descend into the tomb.
The dead are made to speak, and tell the terrible tale of their
violent death.

With strained eye science searches the heavens, to manifest
the wondrous works of God. Twinkling plainly before her
upraised glass is a star millions of miles distant. With pa-
tient calculation she traces the route traversed by this eye of
heaven, back to its far off source ; and tells to her astonished

W. S. KING'S ADDRESS. 633

hearers, that this light, which has travelled at the rate of
20,000 miles in a second, has been 3,541 years in coming from
its distant home. Bessel" a Prussian, has discovered the dis-
tance of a fixed star to be sixty-three billions of miles from us.
Sixty-three billions of miles ! The mind of man refuses to
conceive of such distance ; he can but express it in figures.

Science, with reverent tread, approaches the very council
chamber of the Creator ; and, from off the outspread plan of
the universe, reads his yet untold decrees. She tells of the day,
— and names the very day and the hour and the fractions of a
minute, — when the " face of the sun shall be darkened, and the
moon shall refuse her light." She tells of the coming of the
fiery comet. Nay, more. She dares to say that the complete-
ness of the Divine plan of the -universe requires, that a planet
should exist where none has been found. Hard upon the heels
of the daring assertion comes the announcement of the dis-
covery of the required planet.

Science thus bridges oceans, conquers time and space, and
wrenches their secrets from the heavens; but farmers yet are
found, who say that it cannot aid them to grow beans, — that
it is not practical !

The washerwoman laughs at science, as she stands over her
washtub, and uses soap. The smith smiles at the pretensions
of scientific men, when he tires a wheel. But how many
years of dabbling in grease and ashes would have enabled the
woman to make a recipe for soap ! And how many tons of
iron would be heated and cooled before the blacksmith, of his
own observation, would fathom the mystery of expansion and
contraction ?

Science is vilified and ridiculed because she has not already
explained all the secrets of nature ; and because she often errs,*
when inquired of by the farmer. Allow to her as many years
in the field of agricultvire, as she has enjoyed, — yes, enjoyed
and improved, — in other fields, and the results, which she will
present, — not sell, but present, — to you, will be quite as aston-
ishing and quite as incalculable in value. But cramped within
confined limits, hooted at when she appears abroad, how is it
possible that science can do herself justice.

The practical farmers, — fondly so styling themselves, — have
had in possession " the cattle on a thousand hills," and the
80

634 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

thousand hills themselves, for over five thousand years ; but
are now unable to tell how many pounds of hay go to a pound
of beef. And in this assemblage we could not agree with
unanimity upon such questions as these ; — whether is it better^
to plant large potatoes or small ? — to top corn or to cut it up
at the but? — to strip off suckers or not? — to cut gi-ass in the
flower or in the seed ?

These are plain questions, which one would suppose might
be answered by a thirteen-year old boy of ordinary observa-
tion ; but five thousand years of feeding and killing and cutting
up ; and of planting and reaping and gathering into garners,
have not enabled the farmer to decide these and other mooted
points. Is it, then, an exaction on the part of science, to de-
mand " a clear field and no favor " for ten or twenty years at
least ? Is it unreasonable ?

Scientific agriculture is common sense and system applied
to the cultivation of the soil. It would be interesting, in this
connection, to inquire what foot-hold scientific agriculture has
in your county of Norfolk.

How many farms, gentlemen, within the reach of your ob-
servation, are scientifically cultivated ? On how many is the
depth of the ploughing guaged by the depth of the soil, the
character of the subsoil, and a wise intention to render the
fertile loam deeper year after year, inch by inch? How many
farmers of your acquaintance, who enter on a farm with a soil
three inches deep, undertake, as they well and easily might, to
render it in ten years, twelve inches deep ? I would tell you
here, that the experiments of thousands of farmers have proved
that, by thrusting the point of your plough one inch, or three-
quarters of an inch deeper at each ploughing and bringing to
.the surface so much subsoil, to be operated on by the atmo-
sphere and to be benefited by the manure, year after year, you
will to this extent increase your active fertile soil, and gradual-
ly create another farm, as it were, under your old one. But
this would be scientific farming ; and our American farmer
who fears no foe, shies at the sound of the word science.*

On how many farms in this State, or in any State, is the
manure applied with sufficient knowledge of the component
parts, and consequently of the wants of the soil ? On how
many is the manure itself prepared and preserved, so that it

W. S. KING'S ADDRESS. 635

retains all of its valuable constituents ? Why, gentlemen, if
one were to say that plants, to thrive, require food in certain
proportions ; and'that if one of the necessary substances is not
present in the soil, and is not supplied in the manure, the plant
cannot^ thrive ; and that in proportion as you have or apply
the precise quantity of each ingredient necessary, so nearly do
you come to getting the maximum crop, — you would set it
down at once, in scorn, as scientific farming ! And yet how
else do you account for the fact, that one man grows an hun-
dred bushels of corn to an acre and another but twenty ?
Why, clearly, because the land whereon grew the hundred
bushels was naturally, or by scientific treatment, in a proper
condition for corn-bearing, — had in its womb all the necessary
kinds, and enough of each kind of food, that the young and
the gi'owing plant required for its leaves, its stalk, its tassel
and its ear. And how do you account for the fact, that you
do not get an equal crop on the same ground the next year ?
Why, because the first crop has eaten up a good share of the
food in the ground-pantry ; and the third season, (if any man
is silly enough to try corn again on the same ground, without
having supplied food by manure,) the third crop would find
the shelves pretty well cleaned ; and the progeny of that year
would be pigmies.

On how many farms in Norfolk County is an accurate cal-
culation made of the cost of growing different crops, so as to
decide which is the most profitable to raise ? On how many
farms is an account kept of outlay and income from each field
and each animal, that the prudent husbandman may know
where is the mouse-hole in his meal-bin ? This is not done
because it would be scientific farming. To be sure, a merchant
who pretended to carry on an extensive business without keep-
ing books, and without taking now and then " an account of
stock ;" or who continued to deal in certain styles of goods,
without knowing whether he was making or losing money by
the operation, would be held insane. But surely that is no
reason why a man who prides himself on being a plain, prac-
tical farmer, should farm by arithmetic.

Do farmers hereabout, or farmers generally anywhere, at-
tempt gradually to improve their seed by early and judicious
selection; and by always planting the best, instead of re-

636 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

serving the worst for that purpose ; or do they sell all that is
fit to be sold, and keep the poorest for home use and for seed?
This gradual improvement of seed, such as Mr. Brown, on an
island in Lake Winnepcsaukee, has made in corn — known as
Brown Corn — and as many others have made in many plants,
and fruits, and flowers, by the simple selection of seed, with
judicious cultivation, — this smacks rather too much of science
for a practical farmer.

Gentlemen, I have endeavored to commend to you agricul-
tural education, — the fitting of a farmer for the successful pur-
suit of his noble profession, — precisely on the principle that a
lawyer, a doctor, a shipwright, or a true sailor is fitted for the
duties of his position. But it is replied to me that the men of
this generation are too old to go to school again. This is an
eiTor, for a wise man is at school all his days. Or if allowed
to be true, you can yet educate your children who are to be
farmers, as farmers. While their minds are plastic to receive
impressions, and free from the prejudices which years strength-
en upon us, let them drink at the fountain of knowledge ; that,
when the icy hand of death has snatched us from the scene of
our labors, they may fill, and more than fill, the places that
will " know us no more forever." That they may commence,
not at the lowest round of the ladder, where we began to
climb ; but may mount from the height where our grasp is
fixed, when we are suddenly summoned to another life.

Educate your children, and you will rear up benefactors of
mankind. The advantages of education in every pursuit, and
for all the purposes of life, is no new theme to a New England
audience. Why, why do men listen with incredulous ears,
when we commend to them the proper education of a farmer ?
Imagine for a moment, that all the scientific, practical ability,
that is now employed in watching the currents of the air and
the currents of the ocean, the courses of ■the tides and the
courses of the stars, and sounding for shoals and sounding for
soundings, and dividing the heavens, the earth and the sea into
squares, — was engaged in studying the secrets of the earth's
fertility, and in improving our implements of husbandry, — do
you believe that, in such case, many years would elapse ere
we could grow two blades of grass where springs but one now ?
Do you believe that we should toil and sweat at our labors

R. C. WINTHTIOFS ADDRESS. 637

with so little pecuniary remuneration for so great an outlay of
time, talents and capital ? I tell you. nay.

New worlds of discovery in the tillage of the soil lie before
the generations that succeed us, which will never be disclosed
to our eyes ; — inventions for facilitating the cultivation of the
earth, and for increasing its production to meet the wants of
the gathering millions that will one day crowd it ; — discoveries
that would startle even this age of wonders. We may not
live to see it ; — no, we shall have passed " that bourne, whence
no traveller returns ;" but it is in the womb of time. What
the fierce steam-horse, whose eyes are fire, and whose breath is
as the blast of death, — who howls along the hill side, and
rushes beneath movmtains with the resistless fury of the whirl-
wind and the terrible strength of the storm, — is to the ancient
stage-coach, that, "like a wounded snake, drags its slow
length along," shall be the doings of our sons, as compared to
our own.

WHAT GOVERNMENT OUGHT TO DO FOR
AGRICULTURE.

[Extracts from an Address, delivered before the Bristol County Agricidturcd
Society at its last Fair, Oct. 15, 1852. By Hon. R. C. Winthrop.]

And now, having said thus much, and the limits of this
Address will not allow me to say more, both in regard to what
government cannot do for American agriculture, and also as
to what it actually has done in the past, I come to a brief con-
sideration of what it can do, and what it ought to do, in the
future.

In the first place, it can adopt systematic, comprehensive,
and permanent measures for ascertaining from year to year,
or certainly from census to census, the actual condition of our
country in relation to agriculture, the quantity of land under
cultivation, the proportion of cultivated land devoted to the
production of different articles of food, the relation of produc-
tion to population in the various States and in the country at
large, the comparative productiveness of the same crops in dif-

638 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

ferent parts of the Union and under different modes of culture,
and generally whatever details may be included in a complete
statistical account of American agriculture.

Our commercial and navigating statistics are already pro-
vided for, as incidental to our revenue-system. We need
similar returns both of our agriculture and our manufactures ;
and I should not be sorry to have them committed to a com-
mon bureau.

One of the brief sayings, which have given a name and a
perpetual fame to the Seven Wise Men of Ancient Greece, is
the simple precept, " Know thyself." And a celebrated Latin
poet has not been willing to regard it as a mere saying of
human origin, but has emphatically declared that it descended
from heaven.

It was a saying addressed to individual man, and undoubted-
ly contemplated that self-examination, that searching of the
heart, which is a duty of higher than human authority, and
which is essential to all moral or spiritual improvement. But
it is a doctrine as applicable to the outer as to the inner man,
and as essential to the progress and improvement of nations as
of individuals. And this country, beyond all other countries,
needs to know itself, to understand its own condition, to watch
closely its own progress, to keep the run of it, as we may well
say, for it is always on the run, advancing and going ahead
with a rapidity never before witnessed, or dreamed of. More
especially should the industry of our country know itself, and
realize its own condition and circumstances. American labor,
in all its branches, should have a map, on which it may behold
its own aggregate position, and its own individual relations,
and by which it may be enabled to see what obstructions and
interferences are in the way of its prosperous progress ; to see
particularly where it obstructs itself, by pressing into depart-
ments already too crowded, and where it may obtain relief and
elbow-room in departments not yet occupied. American agri-
culture, above all, should be able to look itself fairly in th? face,
as in a mirror, through the medium of the most detailed and
exact periodical surveys, that it may discover seasonably any
symptoms of over-action or of under-action, if there be any;
and that it may run no risk of expending and wasting its
energies in unprofitable toils.

R. C. WINTHROFS ADDRESS. 639

In the next place, government, State, and National, can en-
courage agricultural science, and promote agricultural educa-
tion.

This subject has been so nearly exhausted, during the last
year or two, by President Hitchcock's Report to our own legis-
lature, by Dr. Lee's Reports to the Patent Office at Washing-
ton, and by the lectures and addresses in which it has been
treated in all parts of the country, that I propose to notice it
very briefly.

Undoubtedly the noble system of common school education,
which is already in existence among us, and for which we can
never be too grateful to our Puritan Fathers, is itself no small
aid to the cause of agriculture. The farmers, and the farmers'
children, enjoy their full share of its benefits. It furnishes that
original subsoil ploughing to the youthful mind which is essen-
tial to the success of whatever other culture it may be destined to
undergo. There is no education, after all, which can take the
place of reading, writing, and keeping accounts ; and the young
man who is master of these elemental arts, and whose eye has
been sharpened by observation, and his mind trained to reflection,
and his heart disciplined to a sense of moral and religious res-
ponsibility,— and these are the great ends and the great achieve-
ments of our common schools, — will not go forth to the work
of his life, whether it be manual or mental, whether of the
loom or the anvil, of the pen or the plough, without the real,
indispensable requisites for success. The great secret and
solution of the wonderful advance which has been witnessed
of late years, in all the useful arts, has been the union of the
thinking mind and the working hand in the same person.
Heretofore, for long ages, they have been everywhere separated.
One set of men have done the thinking, and another set of
men have done the working. The land has been tilled, the
loom has been tended, the hammer and the hoe have been
wielded, by slaves, or by men hardly more intelligent or inde-
pendent than their brute yoke-fellows. In other countries, to
a considerable extent, and even in our own, so far as one region
and one race are concerned, this separation still exists. But a
great change has been brought about by the gradual progress
of free institutions ; and, in the free States of our own country
especially, we see a complete combination of the working hand

640 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

and the thinking mind, of the strong arm and the intelligent
soul, in the same human frame. This has been the glorious
result of our common school system, the cost of which, great
as it has been and still is, has been remunerated a thousand
fold, even in a mere pecuniary way, by the improvements, in-
ventions, discoveries, and savings of all sorts, which have been
made by educated labor in all the varied departments of human
industry. It is now everywhere seen and admitted, that the
most expensive labor which can be employed is ignorant labor ;
and, fortunately, there is very little of it left in the American
market.

But, while the great substratum of all education for all pur-
suits is abundantly and admirably supplied by our common
schools, no one can fail to perceive, or hesitate to admit, the
advantages which may accrue from something of a more
specific and supplementary instruction for those to whom the
care and culture of the American soil is to be committed. The
earth beneath us has been too long regarded and treated as
something incapable of being injured by anything short of a
natural convulsion, or a providential cataclysm. We have
been so long accustomed to dig it, and ditch it, and drain it,
and hoe it, and rake it, and harrow it, and trample it under our
feet, and plough long furrows in its back ; and have so long
found it repaying such treatment by larger and larger measures
of endurance, generosity, and beneficence, — that we have been
ready to regard it as absolutely insensible to injury. Because
our chains and stakes have exhibited from year to year the
same superficial measurements, we have flattered ourselves
that our farms were undergoing no detriment or diminution.
We have remembered the maxim of the law, " He who owns
the soil owns it to the sky," and have been careful to let noth-
ing interfere with our air or daylight ; but we have omitted to
look below the surface, and to discover and provide against the
robbery which has been annually perpetrated, by day^and by
night, upon its most valuable ingredients and elements.^

The discovery has at last been made, the danger has been
revealed, the alarm has been sounded ; and if government can
provide bounties for the destruction of the wolves and bears
and foxes, which threaten our flocks, our herds, and oS^r hen-
roosts, I see not how it can withhold some seasonable pro-

J. H. W. PAGE'S ADDRESS. 641

vision against the far more frequent and more disastrous depre-
dations by which our soil is despoiled of its treasures, through
the want of science and skill on the part of those who till it.
These depredations are none the less treacherous, or the less
formidable, I need not say, for being carried on in no malicious
spirit, and by no hostile hands. The worst robberies, of every
sort, moral or pecuniary, of character, of property, or of oppor-
tunity, are those which a man commits upon himself. It is
due to ourselves, it is due even more to our children, that the
national soil should not be impaired by our ignorance or our
neglect. It is a great trust-estate, of which each generation is
entitled only to the use, and for the strip and waste of which
the grand Proprietor of the Universe will hold us to account.
' Whether the promotion of agricultural education shall be
undertaken through systematic courses of scientific lectures,
or by agricultural schools and colleges, with experimental farms
attached to them, or by the preparation and distribution of
agricultural tracts and treatises, or by all combined, it is for
the farmers to say. What they say will not fail to be rightly
and jeffectively said. With them words will be things ; for no
government will venture to resist their deliberate and united
appeals.

IMPORTANCE OF AGRICULTURE.

[Extracts from an Address delivered at last Fair of the Plymouth County Agricul-
tural Society. By Hon. J, H. VV. Page, of New Bedford.]

Is not agriculture, then, an important and honorable calling?
In comparison with it, the learned professions dwindle into in-
significance.

Agriculture, — Manufactures,— Commerce. As Faith, Hope
and Charity form the arch of the Christian graces, so these of
the industrial interests. Every manufactory-driving wheel may
stop, and agriculture retain its vital and paramount import-
ance ; every sail may rot, and agriculture survive, the stay of
the nations ; manufactures and commerce may both perish,
and agriculture still hold its place as of the first necessity, and
81

642 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

the last and sure hope of civilized man. But let agriculture
die out, and civilized society must cease, and manufactures
and commerce must wither like Jonah's gourd. We some-
times amuse ourselves by imagining how the world would get
on if the art of printing, or all knowledge of that wonderful
power, steam, should be lost ; but let me ask you to amuse
yourselves for a moment by imagining how the world would
get on if it should lose all knowledge of the plough and its
kindred implements ?

In speaking of agriculture as the most important art, the
source and foundation of all other arts, I desire not to be mis-
understood. Agriculture, commerce, and manufactures, of
course including the mechanic arts, are each and all important
to the well being of civilized society. I would not be thought
to say a word in disparagement of either. He does an ill office
who attempts to elevate one branch of honest and useful in-
dustry at the expense of another, or to create a jealousy between
those who pursue different employments.

Agriculture, manufactures, commerce ; all essential to the
good of all ; each promotive of the good of the other: manu-
factures creating for the farmer the best of all markets, — a
home market, — and commerce carrying his surplus products
to those who need them, and bringing to his door, in exchange,
the products of other lands.

But still, agriculture, manufactures, commerce : agriculture,
the august mother, — manufactures and commerce her two
beautiful daughters. The mother may survive the daughters,
— the daughters cannot survive the mother, and they must die
when they cease to draw nurture from the maternal breast.

If, then, farmers of Plymouth, the importance of a calling to
mankind, the amount of capital and the numbers employed,
and the amount of good produced by it, can give it respect-
ability and dignity, your profession has all these elements in
the highest degree.

While Providence has clearly designed that so large a
majority of men should devote themselves to the cultivation of
the soil, care has been taken to surround it by favorable and
attractive circumstances.

Physical, intellectual and moral education ; — these are re-
garded as essential to the true development of the human

J. H. W. PAGE'S J\DDIIESS. 643

beino'. Without going, for contrasts, to the serfs of Russia,
who are almost a part of the soil, or to the farm laborers
of England and Ireland, who are too often below the hope to
rise, except to the gallows, and below the fear to fall, except
into distress, and thence into the poor-house, or worse, where
will you find a class of men so favorably circumstanced, in re-
lation to physical, intellectual and moral development, as New
England farmers, as Massachusetts farmers, if they are but
true to themselves ?

" In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread." That is
generally regarded as the curse of the Lord upon Adam ; but
unless our great progenitor was constituted differently from his
children, the love of the Lord was therein abundantly mani-
fested. Any man who has made a fair experiment of idleness
and physical inactivity will probably have come to the conclu-
sion that Paradise, with its spontaneous and ever-springing
fruits and flowers, its tame and submissive beasts, and birds of
brilliant plumage and sweetest song, were a poor boon with
the condition annexed that the face should never sweat from
exercise or labor.

Be that as it may, for physical, intellectual and moral growth
and health, daily labor, of some sort, is as essential to men
women and children, as daily bread. While nearly all other
classes, including all the professions, pursue their callings under
circumstances more or less unfavorable to physical development
and health, the farmer follows his vocation in the pure air of
heaven, and his daily habitudes fit him to receive the kisses of
the keenest blasts of winter without shrinking. His work ex-
pands the chest, strengthens the lungs, exercises* and develops
the whole animal, which, I may be permitted to say to-day, is
as necessary in reference to men, women and children, as in
regard to sheep, hogs and cattle. However much sentimental
philanthropists bewail the physical condition of other classes,
they never presume to indulge in the luxury of tears over the
condition of the farmer.

The man whose life is devoted to the operation of making
the point of a pin, with the help of machinery, may, or may
not, and I have no time to go into the consideration of that
question, do his work as well without as with intellectual cul-
ture. But the farmer cannot. Farming is an intellectual as

644 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

well as physical labor. The man who is content to blunder
on in ignorance and make no improvement, may stay on land
and cumber the ground, but is not worthy to be called a farmer.
Thought, calculation, the following of causes to their effects,
and the tracing of effects back to their causes, are essential to
the farmer. Some knowledge of the different kinds of soil,
and their aptitude to different kinds of crops, and the peculiar
cultivation which ^each crop demands, the farmer must have.

However content our farmers might heretofore have been,
while rich virgin soil was readily to be found, and intercourse
was infrequent, to be ignorant of their own business, and to
mark time where their fathers left them, none but the most
stupid can remain so now ; for our cultivated lands give un-
mistakable evidence that they demand of the farmer, in return
for their harvests, something which they have not heretofore
received ; and public attention is so strongly drawn to the in-
terests of agriculture, and the best practical and scientific
minds are brought so strongly to bear upon them, that through-
out the whole of New England and the country there is an
agitation of the subject that reaches and affects every farm-
house, and excites thought, and diffuses and elicits knowledge,
even in the midst of the most fertile and seemingly inexhausti-
ble plains of the West.

And to the aid of our farmers, in their progress, come the
numerous able and instructive agricultural papers and other
periodicals, as well as more elaborate works, no one of which
can be read from week to week without profit, — showing the
farmer, as they do, what other theoretical and practical farmers
think, what difficulties they encounter, how they overcome
them, giving him the benefit of their experience, exciting him
to make a subject of thought of what he himself has done or
omitted to do, and what the situation and capabilities of his
own farm require him to do ; arousing hiip to action, and in-
viting him to treasure up, for the benefit of himself and his
children, the fruits of his experience.

With these demands upon him, from the very nature of his
profession ; with these facilities for acquiring knowledge re-
lating to it, and other matters, and with that glory of New
England, always cherished by the farmer, the common school,
together with the long winter evenings, and the leisure hours

J. H. W. PAGE'S ADDRESS. 645

of the whole year, what peculiar opportunities have the New
En<Tland farmer, and his household, for intellectual cultivation
in reference to his own business as well as in other departments
of knowledge ! And, to a commendable extent, is it not true
that these advantages have been improved ? Their out-of-door
exercise, pure air, and habits of useful industry from their early
years, fit farmers' children for mental culture ; and it is a ques-
tion whether the few months' schooling which they enjoy is
not of more value than the whole year to those who live in
cities, and beside going to school, do nothing, or worse.

As to moral education, the farmer and his family probably
are affected in the midst of the beautiful works of God, and
the evident traces of his fingers on the familiar objects of every
day, much as the generality of mankind are by the glorious
canopy of heaven, — to whose majesty and beauty familiarity
makes us so insensible. But senseless as the clod he treads
upon must be that farmer who, year after year, sees the earth,
in its season, open its warm bosom for the reception of seed ;
observes the shooting blade, the swelling stalk and the ripening
fruit ; who trembles at the fear of a failure of his crops, and
rejoices at the prospects of an abundant harvest ; who inhales
as he goes forth to his work, the fragrance of a thousand
flowers, and sees purity and beauty all around him, and still
never raises his thoughts with gratitude to the great Giver of
all, who thus, almost visibly, surrounds him and his household
with the arms of his love.

It is obvious that this farming is a vast and important busi-
ness ; a business that can never wear out so long as civilized
man inhabits the earth ; a business with peculiar advantages
and attractions for intelligent and well regulated minds. This
country, with the irrepressible tendency of its people to agri-
cultural pursuits, its power of production nowhere fully de-
veloped, and its immense extent of fertile lands yet unat-
tempted, is destined to be the greatest bread-producing coun-
try ever known on the face of the earth. "With our home and
foreign markets, — the one, from our increasing manufactures,
sure and constant, unless our manufacturing and mechanic
interests shall be crushed by some suicidal policy of the
government, — the other, as I apprehend, to be, for years to
come at least, fluctuating and unreliable, — there is a demand

646 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

for agricultural products which stimulates and encourages the
agriculturist to constant progress and improvement. Farming,
intelligently and judiciously conducted, must thus hold out
inducements to those with whom profit is a principal object ;
profit not so great or so rapid as is promised by manufactures,
commerce, and some other pursuits, but more free from killing
anxieties, and terrible vicissitudes ; profit slow, sure, and more
to be coveted by well regulated minds.

Farmers and farmers' sons, what think you of agriculture ?
Ought you not to think it among the most important and most
honorable pursuits, and worthy of the best intellects and best
efforts of the best men ?

Sung the Roman bard, nearly two thousand years ago, —

•' 0 fortunatos nimium, si sua bona norint,
Agricolas !"

0 thrice happy farmers if they knew their own blessings; and

1 repeat the strain, thrice happy farmers if they knew their own
blessings.

Farmers of Plymouth County, live worthy of your vocation.
Train up your sons in the way they should go, with that thor-
ough physical, intellectual and moral development, for which
you have such advantages : not that it is to be expected, or
desired, that they should all become farmers ; because a con-
stant sort of subsoiling is going on in society, and under our
free institutions, that what has been and is, will be; and many
of the places of honor, and influence, and responsibility in all
walks of life, public and private, will continue to be filled from
your ranks, by those who come forth to the view of the world
with that great prerequisite to success, a sound mind in a
sound body.

Let your sons be so trained, that a race worthy of their an-
cestry may ever be ready to answer to the call of duty, whether
it be to fill the place of an accomplished farmer at home, or in
not a more honorable, but more public sphere of action.

Certain facts concerning agriculture are well ascertained.
Nature, in the course of ages, has, by various deposits, by the
decomposition of vegetable matter and the blending of various
elements, furnished much of the earth's surface with a genial
and productive soil. That is a wise and beneficent provision,
fitted to the necessities of man, the pioneer, struggling with

J. H. W. PAGE'S ADDRESS. 647

straitened means and lack of knowledge. Experience has
proved that some of the original elements of fertility in much
of om- soil have been exhausted or diminished, so that many
of our lands refuse to produce their wonted crops. Experience
has also shown that to restore those elements and regenerate
the land, manures of various kinds are valuable agents. But
with all the knowledge and skill of our farmers in the modes
of cultivation and the application of manures, statistics show,
and it has come to be a generally admitted fact, that the aver-
age productiveness of lands long cultivated has diminished ;
and it is evident that something different from the ordinary
appliances must be resorted to in order to restore and keep up
the powers of production.

Have we reason to believe that the progress of knowledge
will meet the farmer's need ?

It has been truly said, that " in the first stages of civilization,
art precedes science, science follows. In the advanced stages
of civilization, science precedes art, art follows." I think that
in the history of our agriculture, we have passed through the
state where art precedes and science follows, and that we are
now in the transition state between that and the state where
science precedes art and art follows.

In this country, science, as applicable to agriculture, is in its
infancy. But science, developed in this, as in other things, by
the exigencies of the times, has begun its work in the new field.
No man, probably, now doubts that the chemist can analyze
soils and tell with certainty their component parts, or that he
can analyze the products of the earth, wheat, corn, oats, tur-
nips, &c., and tell with certainty their component parts.

Those facts, and the further facts that plants grow by feed-
ing, as animals do, and that the food of plants must be found
in the composition of the soil where they grow, in order to
their perfection, being admitted, it follows in-esistibly, that
science may open to the farmer most valuable mines of knowl-
edge.

Few men in this country have yet devoted themselves to
this branch of study. Agricultural chemists among us are few.
I was assured recently, by good authority, that there were not
above five men in Massachusetts who had the ability to anal-
yze soils. Agricultural science has but just begun its work

648 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

among us, but is feeling its way along. It has begun, and, as
the French say, "it is only the first step that costs." The de-
mand will create the supply. I do not believe that scientific
farming is to be made easy to the lazy and unenterprising, or
that agricultural chemistry and the ability to analyze soils and
products will in my day become as common as the ability to
read and write ; but still I have no doubt that the day is now
dawning, and that those of us who live twenty years will see
its full light, when science will be the guide of art in agricul-
ture, and practical and scientific skill, united in the same man,
will be common among farmers; and that there will be great
increase in the productiveness of our lands from improved
modes of cultivation, and the application of specific manures
to meet the wants of particular soils and particular crops.

That such an event is desirable, all will admit; but is it
likely to happen? I ask, if it should occur, would it be more
remarkable than things which have occurred in our time?
How long is it since the idea of navigation by steam was ridi-
culed as an absurdity ? How many years ago since it would
have been pronounced an impossibility ever to send a message
thousands of miles with the rapidity of thought?

All knowledge that is uncommon is mysterious, and the
diffusion of it among the people believed impossible. But
familiar instances occur to me of mysterious and abstruse
knowledge becoming very common. Algebra, which our
school girls now study, and are proficients in, was first intro-
duced into our academies since my recollection ; and I remem-
ber well, when a class of young men about to enter Harvard
University, thought it an outrage that they should be compelled
to enter upon that abominably hard study ; and many of the
his/her branches of mathematics which were then considered
too deep for all but a few superior mortals, are now well un-
derstood in and out of the universities. , Go back twenty-five
years, and civil engineering was as little understood as agricul-
tural chemistry now is; it was a mystery, and that man who
knew enough to construct a railroad was a wonder. But there
was a demand for that kind of knowledge, and it was supplied.
Many a self-made young man who was not born a quarter of
a century ago, is now as accomplished a master of that branch

J. H. W. PAGE'S ADDRESS. 649

of science as were the best professors of that day. So will it
ever be ; the supply will follow the demand.

Filled, as the ranks of our farmers are, with active and in-
quiring minds, alive as they are to their own interest, and fa-
vorably situated as I have shown them to be for intellectual
investigation and development, no agricultural people were
ever better prepared than our own for carrying forward the
march of reform and improvement. "With an agricultural
population so prepared for investigation and inquiry, it is a
subject of congratulation that our State government, which
has heretofore done partial justice to the great agricultural
interest by its encouragement of agricultural societies, has,
somewhat tardily, yet as one of the first of the States, estab-
lished a Board of Agriculture. That Board, rightly conducted,
cannot fail of being the means of concentrating the practical
and scientific knowledge diffused over the Commonwealth,
and carrying forward the great cause of agricultural education
in its broadest sense. If the farmers so will, it will be the
means of popularizing science and wedding it to practice, a
union from which the happiest fruits may be expected.

The anniversaries of our agricultural societies are emphati-
cally the popular festivals of Massachusetts. Thanksgiving,
handed down to us by the fathers, is the cherished, and, I trust,
the ever-to-be cherished family festival ; but the agricultural
show is the great general festival, in which all men who live
by bread may and do join, forgetting all political names and
party distinctions, and coming together as a band of brethren,
to thank the great common Father for his manifold blessings.

I congratulate you, gentlemen of the Plymouth County Ag-
ricultural Society, upon the rank which your society holds in
the fraternity of agricultural associations. I congratulate you
upon the happy auspices under which you meet. Remember
that the course of the cause which you are engaged in is on-
ward and upward ; and may success crown your endeavors.
Remember that the farmer's motto should always be, 7iot "for-
getting the things that are behind, press forward to the things
that are before," and " prove all things ; hold fast that which
is good."

650 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

INTELLIGENT AGRICULTURE.

[Extracts from an Address delivered at the last Exhibition of the Barnstable
Agricultural Society. By Simon Brown, Esq., Editor of the New England
Farmer.]

Recent discoveries in chemistry and physiology have led to
most important improvements in the culture of plants, and the
breeding and rearing of animals ; agriculture, is, in conse-
quence, no longer an art of labor, but of science; hence the
advantage of scientific knowledge to agriculturists, and the
susceptibility in the art of progressive advancement. "Agri-
culture," Marshall says, " is a subject which, viewed in all its
branches, and to their fullest extent, is not only the most im-
portant, and the most difficult in rural economies, but in the
circle of human arts and sciences."

Such is the importance of agriculture to us all. It cannot
lack dignity, for it is the mother of all other arts and sciences.
It was not too low for Cato, Cincinnatus, and Washington ;
and it never can be too low for the most exalted mind on earth.

Discontent, then, does not spring from a want of importance
and dignity in the occupation, but because that occupation is
not understood. Farming should not be looked upon as the
end of life, merely as a means of subsistence ; this, as well as
all other pursuits, should be adopted with the view of enabling
men not only to improve and beautify the earth, but to culti-
vate the moral, intellectual, and social powers, and to fill,
according to their capacity, their proper station among their
fellow men. It should not tend to make men mere machines,
who toil for the sole purpose of gratifying their appetites ; but
it should elevate and refine, to the highest degree of perfection,
the better faculties of our nature.

The profits of productive farming would, when conducted
scientifically, enable the farmer to accumulate wealth, and
enjoy all the comforts and luxuries of refined life. Every
community could be made up of the best society — every
family could have a good library, and its accomplished sons

SIMON BROWN'S ADDRESS. 651

and daughters ; farmers sons need not leave the favorite pursuit
of their fathers, and go into the learned professions, from the
erroneous idea that they are more honorable or profitable.
Farmers' daughters need not despise the delightful and
healthful employment of the dairy, the kitchen, or the loom,
and seek elevation in the miserable pursuits and fashions of
the city.

Nothing conduces more to the elevation and refinement of
the mind than the study of nature ; the man who holds fre-
quent communion with nature, and studies and obeys her
laws, is always made a better and happier man.

But it is said that the working man cannot study ; that
study and labor are incompatible and uncongenial. Washing-
ton and Franklin both possessed that kind of knowledge which
enabled them to be eminently useful to the world, and yet both
were emphatically laboring men; laboring not only in directing
others, but with their own hands. Many other signal examples
might be cited to strengthen the point, were it necessary.

" Manual labor, when not excessive, invigorates the body,
and rouses the mind. Muscles strengthened by exercise, and
a brain refreshed by pure blood, enable the mind to conceive
with clearness, and act with vigor and force. The delicate
lark soars high, but soon falls ; it is only the eagle, with broad
and strong wing and clear eye, that can sustain long flights in
the upper air, and gaze at the sun.

" The man with a learning mind, who digs the ground, or
sows the seed, makes rapid progress. He sees the benevolence
of God in every opening bud and blushing flower. He learns
lessons of utility, of design in the natural world ; and with a
soul enlarged, he applies to books and art, the exponents of
other men's minds, — and looks into his own to discover the
laws by which it is governed, and the links by which he is
bound to his fellow men.

" The working man, in all ages of the world, has been more
successful in doing good, in advancing the interests of human-
ity, than a man learned only iu book knowledge. The latter
may desire to do as much, but never can accomplish it, being
ignorant of the material on which he is working.

" As the world advances, its workers take a higher position ;
the dignity of labor becomes apparent. The time draws near

652 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

when he who does nothing will be nothing, and when there
will be no aristocracy, but that of labor; no noblemen, but the
workers."

But the worker must also be a thinker; he must become
nature's ardent student, and work out, and think out the won-
derful processes ever going on in her strange crucible. He
must not be discouraged that he knows so little yet of those
things which are constantly under his observation ; that the
knowledge man has accumulated in all the generations of his
existence, forms but a small mound in comparison with the
unknown.

It is not to be expected that the farmer shall have an exact
knowledge of the construction of the trees and plants which he
cultivates with so much care ; or of the anatomy and physiol-
ogy of the animals which he rears. He cannot learn the
precise habits of the insects which destroy his crops, their
periods of coming and retiring, or the oifice which it is de-
signed they shall fill in the economy of nature. Yet a general
knowledge of the laws which govern them, and a constant
observation of their habits, will divest us of much of the repug-
nance felt towards them, and lead us to a profound contem-
plation of the wisdom and goodness of the Great Architect
of all.

We plant the seed, and behold the germ springs to the light
and air. What wonderful operations are still carried on ! The
tree assumes the most stately, as well as graceful forms — the
buds, the leaves, blossoms and fruits appear, surpassing in
beauty all art of the most skilful hands. It furnishes fuel,
shade, fragrance, sustenance, oftentimes protection against
summer heats, or winter winds, and always beauty to the
landscape.

But the farmer too often stands in the midst of his trees, his
plants, and flowers, of his corn, and grass, and grain, which he
has caused to grow, and looks upon them as the result of a
mere mechanical operation. He overlooks that wonderful and
mysterious agency which prepares the food, diversified ds it is,
and sends it to the farthest bud and leaf of a monarch of the
forest, or the minutest tendril of the tiny vine. He ploughs,
because it is easier to plant and hoe in a loose soil, forgetting
that, in a fine tilth, there are millions more mouths to receive

SIMON BROWN'S ADDRESS. 653

the food which the plant requires than in a compact soil ; that
these open mouths catch fertilizing substances from every
passing breeze, and drink them in from the cooling dews and
genial showers. He forgets that the sand which he applied to
the clay land, has found potash in the soil, become soluble,
been taken up by the roots of the plant, carried to its utmost
extremities, and now covers the straw of his wheat field with
a delicate and beautiful coating of sand, or enamel, which
gives it strength to stand erect, and thus present its seeds to
the influences of the sun and air, and bring them to perfection.

While he reaps, shall he not inquire how this came, and
compare it with another field, which fell to the ground and
failed to perfect its grain ? Will he not investigate these
causes, and thus acquire more knowledge of the operations of
nature, and more power over his crops ?

By an accurate knowledge of the times when insects appear,
and the kinds of plants on which they prefer to feed, the time
of planting and sowing may be varied, so that it may be pos-
sible to escape their ravages in some degree in this manner ;
or as their period of existence is often very brief, we may learn
their time of retiring to a winter home, and destroy them there
by late ploughing or other means. The season of their coming
and retiring, the food they require, and the length of time they
remain, being accurately understood, will, at least, give us a
power over them we do not now possess. But this is not all
we gain. This knowledge admits us to some of the secret
and wonderful operations of irrational life, and thus leads us,
by successive steps, "through nature up to nature's God."

The rose bug, for instance, has received its name from its
annual appearance coinciding with the blossoming of that
plant, and this fact may operate as a note of preparation
against its ravages ; and so it may aid us against the cater-
pillar, cankerworm, curculio, and beetles. The latter insect
sometimes proves exceedingly destructive. The discovery was
made by a gentleman, that they visited and defoliated his
cherry trees in the night. When this habit was known, they
were shaken down and destroyed in large numbers, and the
trees afterwards saved. This fact was learned by reference to
a work on insects, and will illustrate what it has become too
fashionable to condemn as book-farmings as if facts recorded

654 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

in a book or newspaper were not as valuable as though de-
clared by the tongue. To be consistent, the scoffer at book-
farming' should reject many of the best practices of the farmer
now, because Virgil wrote of them ; or Cato, or Columnella,
or Jethro Tell, commended them.

The insect race has its part to fill in the great plan, and that
part is undoubtedly an important one. We accuse them of
encroachments when they select, as their favorite food, the
plants we are cultivating for our own pleasure or profit. It
may be, that in their deliberations and conventions, if they hold
any, they look upon ws as the aggressors. They feed on the
common bounty as well as ourselves, enjoy their brief existence
and die. Our domestic animals do the same ; but we make
them subserve our purposes, and we are content. We have
not yoked the insect race to our implements for practical pur-
poses, but having this decided advantage of them, the posses-
sion of reason, it is the part of wisdom to study their habits
with patient care, until we become as well convinced of their
usefulness, as we are of that of the ox and cow, and that an
intelligent Being placed them here for our good.

Many of the beetles live on plants not only of little use to
man, but some of them poisonous, and in a state of decay
often offensive ; they are therefore to be reckoned among our
friends. Some live on the juices of animals, and by this
means destroy a great number of noxious insects. Others are
of service in the arts, affording us the costly cochineal, scarlet
grain, lac and manna. Dragon flies and some others subsist
upon plant lice, and thus become our active protectors.

The more intimate is our knowledge of the organism about
us, the trees, plants, flowers, insects and animals, the less labor
shall we be required to perform, and the more shall we adore
that wisdom which has formed them all.

I will dwell for a moment on another species of this lowly
life, the common house spider. Place one no larger than the
head of a pin under the microscope, and his clear black eye,
set in a field of delicate blue, becomes distinctly visible. • The
top of his head is studded with brilliant gems, varying in hues
as he changes position under the glass ; while along his back
are plumes of exquisite color and softness. Each front foot
terminates in a club or ball of hair, and this varies in form in

SIMON BROWN'S ADDRESS. 655

different individuals. But the most wonderful part of this
brilliant and beautiful little creature, is its spinning apparatus;
more wonderful in its construction than the organization and
power of any other animal, I have ever contemplated. No
art of man has devised machinery so perfect and yet so simple.
With this it constructs its own roads, manufactures its dwell-
ings, weaves its own nets, and snares, and ropes to bind its
prey when captured, and all with a spinning jenny so small
that it is impossible to see it with the naked eye.

Standing by looms in the cotton mills, I have often witness-
ed with astonishment, the precision and perfection of their
parts, and how admirably each wheel and segment performed
its appointed office, and how the beautiful fabric grew under
the skilful hand of the craftsman, and his almost intelligent
machine ! But all this falls short of the mechanism and ar-
tistic power of the wonderful spider. A slight variation of
position renders the loom useless ; but the spider's is a loco-
motive loom! Destroy his house to-day and drive him from
his possessions, and, lo ! to-morrow he is quietly established in
a new dwelling.

Did he not give the idea of the spinning-jenny to Arkwright,
and through him confer the immense benefits on mankind
which are realized from this invention ? which has scattered
cotton cloth — one of the greatest benefits conferred upon man,
— over the whole habitable globe, and at so cheap a rate as to
be accessible to all.

All the principles of valuable powers, by which we overcome
the obstacles in our way, are suggested in nature's works. The
power used in all modern printing presses is that of the human
knee.

Is there not something to be gained, then, by the farmer, in
the study of the inferior creation around him, however minute
and insignificant it may appear ? But, if there were nothino-
gained in the mechanical powers, or protection to crops, there
would still be incalculable benefit in mental discipline, and the
moral elevation of the heart.

The study of natural history, and in this I class entomology,
fills the soul with grateful ideas of the minuteness, as well as
magnitude of the operations of the Omnipotent Beino- • ex-
pands if with sentiments of His benevolence and love, and

656 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

strengthens the bonds of affection between ourselves in this
imperfect condition.

And shall not this interesting study commend itself to the
young farmer, impatient to penetrate the mysteries around
him, or find acceptance in the maiden's heart, who seeks ex-
tended opportunities of observation, and finds little pleasure
in the dull routine of daily household work ?

Huber, one of the greatest of French naturalists, devoted
eight years to the study of bees, and thought the time thus
expended was promoting the happiness and welfare of man.
The world has sanctioned that judgment by ten thousand
reprints of his researches. Time will not permit me to enter
into any of the interesting details of their history here. But,
lord of creation as man assumes to be, shall he contemn the
lowly life around him and trample its mysterious organization
into the dust, or study its influences and bearings on his own
condition, and thus approach his Creator as a knowledge of
his works increases ?

There is another name inscribed high on the roll of honor,
among the useful and distinguished of our country — that of
Audubon. With a love of the natural and beautiful that no
hardship could daunt, he devoted a life to the description of
birds ; passing consecutive weeks in the forest, or on the moun-
tain or plain, or by the sea-shore, watching their habits. Lean-
ing against some friendly tree, with his portfolio on his lap, he
would patiently sit through a long summer day, in writing an
exact description of some bird, learning its peculiar song, and
transferring its varied plumage to his note-book. His publish-
ed works now command the admiration of the world ; and his
largest volume sells at $800. The intensity of his love of this
pursuit was never dimmed by any discouragement ; it led
him into remote forests away from human habitations and the
human face and voice, for weeks in succession, where the
earth was his couch, and his rifle the means of obtaining sub-
sistence. His labors now give instruction and delight to
millions, and will inspire millions more with a love for this
useful and beautiful part of creation — the birds.

If this study occupied the life of an individual distinguished
alike for intelligence, and a desire to promote the welfare of
his race, shall not the farmer find inducements to enter into its

SIMON BROWN'S ADDRESS. 657

outer courts, at least, and inquire whether there is not in their
contemplation some compensation for his constant physical
application? Birds are eminently the friends of the farmer ;
without them it may well be doubted whether his labors upon
many crops would not be utterly in vain. If so they demand
our attention in a mercenary point of view. But there is an-
other gain — they exert a direct influence upon the heart; many
of our earliest associations are of the birds ; their habits of
migration and return, their amazing powder of wing and artistic
skill, and their attachment to old locations, and devotion to
their young, have been the themes of admiration in all lands.
A study of their habits gives sweetness of tone to the heart,
quiets its fears, allays its griefs. How wonderful, that when
warned by the approach of winter, our pleasant summer friends
have left us, others, far into the arctic regions, should come to
enliven the dreary landscape ! Then with glistening wing
comes the pine grosbeak and the snow bunting. The howling
storm and driving snow are but pastime to them.

In the comparative leisure of winter and the intervals of labor
from field-work on the farm, and in the house, the study of
birds will prove a delightful and profitable recreation. Knowl-
edge acquired of this part of animated nature, is poicer, as
much as physical strength to guide the plough, or swing the
scythe, is power. It makes men and women stronger, better,
more useful, and draws away the mind from what has become
the dull routine of life, delving on the farm. Such knowledge
heals the discontent which broods upon the mind like a night-
mare ; heaps up the imaginary gold in California, or kindles
the ig-nis fatuKS light about the lawyer's office, the merchant's
desk, or mechanic's bench, and brings compensation for sun-
burnt cheeks, hard hands, and coarse apparel. But there are
numerous other attractions to study and reflection, both in the
animal and vegetable kingdoms about us.

Have you examined the plant at your feet, the tree at
your door — investigated the currents of the sap, and learned
" how the sweet perfume and delicate hues of the flower, the
oil of the olive, the sugar of the cane, the narcotic juice of the
poppy, the nutritious farina of the cereal tribes, and the poi-
sonous extract of the nightshade, are all elaborated by the
83

658 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

same mysterious process, and from similar, if not the very-
same materials ?"

By visiting the leaves, the sap becomes a very different sub-
stance before returning to the stems and the trunk of the tree.
It returns thicker, is in a more concentrated form and better
adapted to nutrition, after having thrown off its excess of
water. This change causes the fruit to become like that of
the branches, and leaves, through which the sap last passes.
Thus if a sweet apple is engrafted upon a sour tree, the fruit
is sweet, because the sap is elaborated or prepared by a sweet
branch and leaves.

Have you investigated the functions of the leaves, and noted
the beautiful operations they perform — how they exhale, ab-
sorb, and digest? They exhale during the day, and throw off
the excess of water in the sap ; this exhalation is different from
mere evaporation, and depends upon the state of the tempera-
ture, and the air.

Absorption is performed mainly by the roots ; but if these
are defective, the leaf assumes the office ; and you will see the
invigorating effect of a shower of rain on the leaves of parched
and wilted plants, long before the water could have reached
the roots, and been carried up to the leaves.

Respiration in plants, as in animals, consists in the absorp-
tion of oxygen from the air, and giving off of carbonic acid,
and is performed mainly by the leaves.

Digestion consists in the decomposition of carbonic acid by
the green tissues of the leaves, under the stimulus of the light,
the fixation of the solid carbon and the evolution of the pure
oxygen.

But I will not dwell on these particulars, interesting as they
are. The whole vegetable kingdom is filled with wonderful
manifestations of the wisdom, power and goodness of God.
On whatever side we turn on the farm, there is still something
inviting our contemplation ; something to" awaken new senti-
ments of gratitude, new emotions of delight. In the morning
the sun glances on millions of liquid drops, changing' them
into pearls. The questions should arise, How came they
there? What unseen power has been at work during the
silent night, studding the blades of grass, the bending leaf,
and fragrant flower, with these crystal gems ?

SIMON BROWN'S ADDRESS. 659

How many " brush with hasty step the dew away," nor ever
pause to contemplate it as a part of that wisdom which has
created and governs all things — nor as the result of the opera-
tion of certain laws. The air being filled with vapor, and the
earth becoming cooler than the surrounding air, after the sun
declines, condenses the moisture into drops, just as the moist-
ure is condensed into drops on the outside of the pitcher that
is filled with cold water in the hot summer noon. But if it is
cloudy, there is no dew. The clouds hang over the earth like
an immense blanket, and prevent the heat from escaping, or
rather re-transmit to the earth the heat which had been radi-
ated from it. The temperature of plants, therefore, does not
fall so low as to cause the moisture in the air to become con-
densed, and there is no dew. The dew comes, too, when it is
most needed; when the heat of the sun, unmitigated by any
cloudy screen, greatly increases the general evaporation.

Instead of a moment, the whole time allowed me to address
you, might be occupied on this interesting subject. My desire,
however, is not so much to explain as to present it to your
minds in such a light as to attract your attention to it hereafter.

But I will detain you only a moment longer, although I
have said nothing of physiology, of heat, electricity, hail,
snow or rain; each of which is governed by laws which the
farmer should understand, and a knowledge of which would
bring a contentment and delight to his mind, far overbalanc-
ing any gratification to be realized in the crowded marts of
mercantile and commercial life.

I have not touched upon the principles of irrigation, of
draining, ploughing, subsoiling and composting ; I have said
nothing of the grasses and grains, of the culture of fruits, vege-
tables, and flowers. I have purposely omitted them all, in or-
der to take another view of the requirements of the farm. But
they are all governed by immutable laws, controlled by infinite
wisdom for our good, and demand of us such careful and earn-
est investigation as our several circumstances will permit.

I have not time to speak of the domestic animals which
serve us, and without which it would be impossible so to
increase the products of the earth as to meet the wants of the
increasing population. A partial knowledge of the principles
of the growth of each of these, of the elements of which they
are composed, and of their comparative value, would so occupy

660 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES.

the mind with the useful and agreeable, as to leave little room
for complaint or discontent.

Each and all of these haA^e a daily and hourly influence on
your happiness and prosperity; without this knowledge in
some degree, civilization must decline, and man degenerate to
barbarism. Your beautiful cities, the pleasant homes of your
villages, and your fair fields, teeming with the products of your
industry and skill, would soon sink to ruin and waste, and be-
come the abode of wild weeds and wilder beasts.

The time is coming when the successful farmer will be the
intelligent farmer, as well as the successful merchant he who
understands the principles of trade.

When Lord Bacon said that " knowledge is power," he did
not mean that it is power alone in the laiv, in writing books,
speculation, or surgery, but that it is power over the earth to
subdue it to our will ; over the trees, and the grass of the fields,
to make them bring forth abundantly to satisfy our wants and
gratify our tastes; power to introduce new fruits and flowers;
power over the animal kingdom, to improve the races for speed,
for milk, for draft, or the shambles ; and power over the cli-
mate, even, so that tropical plants shall flourish and ripen their
fruits ia these regions!

The possession of these powers will verify the axiom of
Lord Bacon. And while they cause " the desert to blossom
as the rose," they will elevate your own characters, and bring
that grateful contentment and satisfaction with your occupa-
tion, to which it has been my object in these remarks to lead
you ; a contentment and quiet current of life, not often real-
ized by professional men. Then —

" Would you be strong ? Go follow the plougti ?
Would you be thoughtful ? Study fields and flowers ;
Would you be wise ? Take on yourself a vow
To go to school in nature's sunny bowers.

Fly from the city ; nothing there can'charm —
Seek wisdom, strength, and virtue on a farm."

Intelligent labor will gladden the heart of the wife, strength-
en that of the husband, and make home attractive to the child ;
will introduce ease and refinement into domestic life, and
through these, lift the soul to Heaven to reap the reward of
faithful service while on earth, in new fields of glory, where
moth and rust will not corrupt.

PEOCEEDINGS

^hk %am)i d %^xmlhxxt,

FOR THE YEAR 1852.

PREPARED BY

AMASA WALKEE

SECRETARY, PRO TEM.

BOSTON:

WHITE & POTTER, PRINTERS TO THE STATE.

1853.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 663

FIRST ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

To the Senate and House of Representatives, in General Court

assembled.

The Board of Agriculture, in compliance with the law of
1852, chapter 142, submit this, their first Annual Report.

The Board held its first meeting at the Council Chamber in
Boston, on the 22d day of July last.

The members were as follows : —

Members ex officiis. — His Excellency, the Governor ; His
Honor, the Lieutenant Governor; the Secretary of the
Commonwealth.

Appointed by the Governor and Council. — Edward Hitch-
cock, Amherst; Marshall P. Wilder, Dorchester; Nathaniel
Wood, Fitchburg.

Chosen by the Several Agricultural Societies. — Barnstable
County, Charles B. H. Fessenden ; Berkshire County, Stephen
Reed ; Bristol County, J. H. W. Page ; Essex County, John
W. Proctor ; Franklin County, James S. Grennell ; Hampden
County, Francis Brewer ; Hampshire County, John A. Nash ;
Hampden, Franklin and Hampshire, Joseph Smith ; Massa-
chusetts, John C. Gray ; Middlesex County, Simon Brown ;
Housatonic, Joshua R. Lawton ; Norfolk County, Benjamin
V. French ; Plymouth County, Seth Sprague ; Worcester
County, John W. Lincoln ; Worcester West, Wm. Parkhurst.

664 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Governor Boutwell was requested to act as chairman, and
the Secretary of State appointed secretary pro tern.

The members were classified by lot, according to the terms
of the law, as follows : —

Members whose term of service expires in 1854, Messrs.
"Wilder, Page, Proctor, Sprague, Lincoln, Parkhurst.

Members whose term expires in 1855, Messrs. Hitchcock,
Reed, Brewer, Smith, Brown, Lawton.

Members whose term expires in 1856, Messrs. Wood, Fes-
senden, Grennell, Nash, Gray, French.

Its organization being completed, the election of a permanent
Secretary first claimed the attention of the Board.

After a discussion of the subject, a committee was appoint-
ed to report upon the duties of that officer, and submit the
name or names of suitable persons for the office.

A committee of one for each of the incorporated agricultural
societies in the Commonwealth was appointed to attend the
next annual exhibitions, and report upon the same to this Board.

A committee was also appointed to select such subject re-
lating to agriculture, as may be most worthy of attention, and
report at a future meeting. After further incidental business,
an adjournment was made to the 5th day of August.

On that day the Board again assembled, and Mr. Wilder,
from the committee on the subject of appointing a Secretary
and defining his duties, submitted the following report : —

The undersigned, a committee of this Board to prescribe the
duties of its Secretary, and to present the name or names of a
person or persons suitable for that office, having attended to
the subject, report as follows upon

" THE DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY."

1. To make a faithful record of the meetings of this Board.

2. To keep a journal of all important communications, made
to or by the Board, in relation to the progress of his and their
labors, and of the art and science of agriculture.

3. To open and conduct a correspondence with such prac-
tical and scientific cultivators, or other eminent individuals,
and with such agricultural associations in our own country,
and in other lands, as may be deemed expedient.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 665

4. To collect agricultural statistics, pamphlets and publica-
tions ; to catalogue and arrange the same, together with such
books, maps, charts, documents and other articles, as may be
given to, or acquired by, this Board, in a manner convenient
for reference and consultation.

5. To obtain and preserve, so far as may be found expedient,
and as may be deemed convenient for examination by our
farmers, such seeds and specimens of the various grasses,
grains, vegetables, fruits and other agricultural products, as are
now grown in this Commonwealth, or as may be hereafter
introduced into it, and to distribute such new or approved
varieties of these, as may be adapted to its soil and climate.

6. To collect and disseminate such information in relation
to the best breeds of domestic animals, and the management
of the same, as may be suited to promote this most important
branch of husbandry.

7. To investigate, as far as practicable, the elements and
character of the soils in this State ; their adaptation to different
crops, and to preserve for exhibition and instruction samples of
the same.

8. To endeavor to discover and successfully to apply such
mineral, vegetable and animal fertilizers, as may be found
within our territorial limits, or as may be profitably introduced
from other localities.

9. To receive, preserve, and, under the direction of this Board,
to report upon, such approved agricultural implements as are
now in use, or as may be hereafter advantageously introduced
among the farmers of this Commonwealth.

10. To visit, by the advice of this Board, the various agri-
cultural districts of Massachusetts, and to give lectures on the
practice and science of agriculture, whenever and wherever
they may deem the same most desirable.

11. To attend, as far as practicable, the exhibitions of the
incorporated agricultural societies receiving the bounty of the
State, — to receive their returns,— to make an abstract of the
same for publication, in connection with his Annual Report,
and to perform such other duties as are specified in the act
establishing this Board.

12. To cooperate with the Secretary of the Board of Edu-
cation, so far as may be found expedient, for the introduction

666 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

and study of agriculture and kindred branches in the educa-
tional system of the Commonwealth, and finally, to promote
the objects of this Board by such other ways as he may sug-
gest, or they approve.

Your committee having considered the duties above named
as naturally pertaining to the office of the Secretary of this
Board, next attended to the other subject committed to them,
viz., that of designating a person for the office.

The qualifications of several distinguished gentlemen have
received the favorable consideration of your committee, and
they are happy to report, that after mature deliberation, they
unanimously recommend Edward Hitchcock, President of
Amherst College, as a gentleman eminently qualified to receive
this trust, and to discharge the duties of the office.

All which is respectfully submitted.

MARSHALL P. WILDER, Chairman.

The foregoing report having been accepted with great
unanimity, as expressing views of the Board in regard to the
duties of its Secretary, and the high qualifications required for
that office, a ballot was taken and it appeared that Edward
Hitchcock had received a unanimous vote. He was accord-
ingly declared elected, and, not being present, the Secretary was
directed to notify him of the action of the Board.

The committee appointed at the last meeting to select such
subjects relating to improvements in agriculture, as were most
worthy of attention, submitted a report, in which a large num-
bor of topics were enumerated. The report was accepted, and
many of the subjects assigned to different members.

The third meeting was held on the 7th day of September.
It was convened by the Secretary, for the purpose of acting
upon the following communication received from Dr. Hitchcock:

Boston, August 21, 1852.
Dear Sir :

To the uniooked for announcement in your letter, that the
Board of Agriculture of this State had unanimously chosen
me as their Secretary, I have given all the attention which so
distinguished an honor, coming from a body so respected, de-

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 667

mands ; although I have been severely pressed with labors
since the receipt of your letter.

Waiving all other considerations, there is one that seems to
decide the question presented for my consideration. I cannot
persuade myself that duty will allow me, at present, to quit the
post which I now occupy. This demands all the time and
strength which I can command, and even more, and the same
would be the case with the office of Secretary, as I view its
duties. I have no alternative, therefore, but to decline the
proffered honor.

I beg you to convey to the Board my deep sense of obliga-
tions for their generous offer, and my strong desire that their
minds be directed to the choice of one younger, more vigorous
and competent than myself for this important post.

With the highest respect, I subscribe myself, sincerely yours,

EDWARD HITCHCOCK.
Hon. Amasa Walker, Secretary, SfC, c^*c., Boston.

This letter was accepted, and the further consideration of
the subject postponed to the meeting to be held on the first
day of December then next ensuing. A committee of five was
chosen to report, at that meeting, the name of some suitable
person to act as Secretary of the Board.

A committee was also appointed to consider the expediency
of preparing a manual on agriculture for the use of common
schools ; another, on the best means of promoting the interests
of agriculture in the State by public lectures.

The Board met again on the first Wednesday of December.
At this time Mr. Wilder, from the committee on the nomina-
tion of a permanent Secretary, submitted the following report :

The committee to whom was referred the nomination of a
permanent Secretary of this Board, respectfully report : That
the names of several distinguished persons have been present-
ed, and their qualifications have received the consideration of
the committee.

The committee regret that they have not been able to agree
upon a nomination, and they respectfully ask for further time.

In consideration, however, of the fact that the annual ab-
stract of the returns of the county societies, and the Report of

668 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

this Board, must soon be put in course of publication, the
committee recommend that the present Secretary pro tern.,
Hon. Amasa Walker, be requested to make up the compila-
tions of the agricultural transactions of the Commonwealth
for the year 1852, together with the Report of this Board, and
to perform such other duties as are incumbent on its Secre-
tary.

This report was accepted.

A committee appointed to nominate members of the Gen-
eneral Board of the United States Agricultural Society, re-
ported the names of J. W. Proctor, Essex Society, H. W.
Cushman, Franklin Society, Simon Brown, Middlesex Society.

The report was accepted, and the above named gentlemen
elected.

The committee on public lectures reported in favor of calling
the attention of the people to the importance of having lectures
on agriculture form a part of the course of all lyceums and
similar associations in the rural districts of the Common-
wealth.

This report was accepted and referred to a committee, who
subsequently issued, through the agricultural papers, a notice
calling the attention of the friends of agriculture to the subject.

The fifth and last meeting of the Board was held on the
12th instant. The attendance was large, only two members
being absent.

Reports were received from the several committees appoint-
ed to visit the exhibitions of the different societies.

These reports, or such extracts as may be deemed expedient,
will be published in the Transactions of the Agricultural So-
cieties now being prepared by the Secretary pro tern.

Essays were read by several gentlemen to whom subjects
were referred at the second meeting of the Board. These,
too, (or extracts from them,) will appear in the annual trans-
actions.

The election of a Secretary was again taken up, and on
motion, it was voted, " that the appointment of Secretary be
postponed until the next meeting of the Board, and that the
present Secretary continue to act until a permanent Secretary
is chosen, and the further action of this Board."

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 669

The committee on the introduction of an elementary work
into common schools, submitted the following report :

The committee who were instructed to consider the expe-
diency of introducing to our public schools the study of the
elements of agricultural science, report :

That studies of this description might be attended to with
much benefit under competent teachers. The surprise is,
that they have been omitted so long, while so many of less
practical utility have been introduced.

Probably the want of text books adapted to the understand-
ings of pupils has been one cause of this.

The committee have examined " The Progressive Farmer,"
by Prof. Nash, of Amherst, and think it better adapted to the
wants of the community, than any work of the kind that has
come to our knowledge.

J. W. PROCTOR, ^

E. HITCHCOCK, ( Committee.

a REED, 3

Dr. Hitchcock, having been requested, at a previous meet-
ing, to present his views on some topic connected with the
improvement of agriculture, read the following,

ON farmers' institutes.

Since the last time I attended a meeting of the Agricultural
Board, I have had an opportunity of witnessing the operation
of a Teachers' Institute, under the admirable management of
the Secretary of Education, and I was impressed with the
great and salutary influence which such a system must exert
upon the cause of education in Massachusetts. But another
thought has occurred to me. "Why should we not have Farm-
ers' Institutes, as well as Teachers' Institutes. We have agri-
cultural chemists, scientific farmers, practical farmers, botanists,
vegetable and animal physiologists, geologists, meteorologists,
abundantly qualified, and, I doubt not, willing to go into the
different districts of the State, and instruct the farmers there
in their several departments. During the winter months, I
presume that multitudes of farmers, with their families, would
assemble for this purpose ; nor can I doubt that their hospi-

670 MASS. BOAUD OF AGRICULTURE.

tality would be quite as generous as are experienced by the
strangers who attend the Teachers' Institutes. By such a
system the following objects would be accomplished.

1. A vast amount of knowledge concerning the principles
of agriculture could be imparted to the farmers in every part
of the State. It would, in fact, form an ambulatory agricul-
tural school, where the young, especially, would learn very
rapidly from the best masters.

2. It would give an opportunity to men well qualified, after
looking at the chemical and geological constitution of the soil,
to make suggestions to the farmers of the different districts as
to improved modes of culture.

3. It would furnish a good mode of communicating intelli-
gence to the farmers of discoveries and improvements in agri-
culture, of distributing new varieties of seeds, and making
known new and improved breeds of domestic animals.

4. It would probably bring to light new manures in different
parts of the State by the researches of the lecturers, and of the
farmers after they were put upon the track.

5. It would awaken a deeper interest in agricultural pur-
suits, and give them increased respectability.

6. Opportunity might be given during the meetings of the
Institute for visiting some of the best conducted farms and
gardens in the vicinity, and thus witnessing the operations of
scientific principles.

I know of but two difficulties in the way of the immediate
adoption of such a plan. One is, that as yet we have no Sec-
retary to the Board, an indispensable pre-requisite. Another
is, that we have no pecuniary means placed at our disposal for
any purpose. The first difficulty, I trust, will soon be removed,
and for getting rid of the second, I take the liberty of suggest-
ing that a petition be presented to the legislature, now in
session, for the means requisite for establishing and putting in
operation a Farmers' Institute.

Respectfully submitted,

EDWARD HITCHCOCK.

Amherst College, January 11, 1853.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 671

Since the organization of this Board, one of its members,
Hon. John W. Lincoln, a most valuable member, has been
called away by death. Greatly devoted to the cause of agri-
cultural improvement, a man of extensive information, and
high practical ability, the loss of Mr. Lincoln is severely felt,
not only by his immediate associates, but by the community
in which he lived, and the State, which, in various public
offices, he long and faithfully served.

The vacancy thus occasioned has been filled by the election
of Harvey Dodge, of Sutton.

Another vacancy has been caused by the removal of James
S. Grennell from the Commonwealth. No election has taken
place to fill this vacancy.

In reviewing the proceedings of the Board, it will be observed
that much difficulty has been encountered, notwithstanding
the most untiring efforts, in obtaining a person, in all respects,
qualified to discharge the responsible duties of Secretary.

Regarding the success of the enterprise as depending, in no
small degree, upon the character and ability of the person to
whom its chief interests are intrusted, the Board have placed
the standard of qualifications high. They feel that the Secre-
tary should be, not only a man of science, but of business
talent; not only a theoretical agriculturist, but a practical
farmer.

To find these qualifications united in one man at the present
time, when comparatively few scientific men are connected .
with agriculture, has been no easy task. There are such men
in the country, but most of them occupy stations of profit and
influence beyond the reach of this Board. They do not, how-
ever, despair. Their expectations now are, that the office will
be speedily filled.

In compliance with the terms of the law under which they
act, the Board have now " submitted a detailed report of their
proceedings;" and it only remains for them "to make such
recommendations and suggestions as, in their view, the inter-
ests of agriculture may require."

The annual returns of the several agricultural societies are
now required by law to be made, on or before the tenth day of
January in each year. This, under the present organization,
is an inconvenient arrangement.

672 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

A part of this Board are ex officio members, whose time of
service expires at the close of the political year, and thus a
change of members is likely to occur at the very time when
the returns are coming in.

It is desirable, on many accounts, that the report of this
Board, like that of the Board of Education, should be made up
by the 1st of January. But this cannot be properly done, un-
less the law is so altered as to require the several societies to
make their returns as early as the first day of December. This,
it is believed, will occasion no inconvenience to them, as their
exhibitions are usually closed as early as the 1st of November,
and generally much earlier. The proposed change would also
enable the Secretary of this Board to get out the annual trans-
actions soon after the assembling of the legislature.

As a great want of uniformity exists in the manner in which
the returns of the different societies are now made up, it is
suggested, that if the Board were authorized by law to estab-
lish the needful formulas, and fm-nish to the societies the
requisite blanks, a very desirable improvement might be made
in the character of their annual statistics. They would be
rendered much more available and useful.

It would seem to be the right, as well as the duty, of the
State to do this. Agricultural societies, like the common
schools, receive the bounty of the Commonwealth. Should
they not, like the schools, be required to make uniform and
reliable returns ?

The importance of this measure is deeply felt by those ac-
quainted with the chaotic and imperfect state of the returns
now made.

In closing this report, it is deemed proper to add, that this
Board owes its existence, in a great measure, to efforts made
by the friends of agriculture in 1851. On the 20th of March,
of that year, a large convention of gentlemen from all parts of
the State assembled at Boston, and organized a voluntary asso-
ciation, under the name of " The Massachusetts Board of Agri-
culture." This Board, although unaided by the State, carried
on a series of extensive operations through the year, appointed
committees to visit and report upon all the exhibitions of the
different agricultural societies, and by its vigorous efforts
aroused so great an interest in agricultural affairs, that at the

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 673

session of 1852, the legislature was induced, with great una-
nimity, to establish the present Board. That act has given a
still greater impetus to the cause, and it is evident that the
time has now come when the public mind is awakened, in
some degree, to the great importance of agricultural education.
The people begin to call for knowledge ; begin to have faith
that science can do something for the farmer, as well as for
the mechanic and artizan.

Information, in one form or another, is what the farmer
needs. He must have it, and it must be brought to him. He
cannot resort to colleges. The mass of the people must be
educated at home, or not at all. We see and feel this in
regard to common school education. So it must be with
knowledge on the subject of agriculture. By Farmers' In-
stitutes, by public lectures, by its introduction into schools,
and all the usual modes of diffusing information, the science
of agriculture must be made familiar to the people, a majority
of whom are employed in that branch of industry, and all of
whom have a direct or indirect interest in it.

Respectfully submitted,

AM AS A WALKER, Secretary pro tern.

Boston, Jan. 13, 1853.

REPORTS OF DELEGATES.

Soon after the organization of the State Board, a delegate
was appointed to attend the exhibition of each Agricultural
Society. Most of these delegates attended to the duty as-
signed them, and presented reports which were accepted by
the Board, and are published herewith, or such extracts from
them as our space will allow.
85

674 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

DR. HITCHCOCK'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE ESSEX SOCIETY.

Agreeably to the request of the Board of Agriculture, I
attended the Annual Exhibition, or Fair, of the Essex Agri-
cultural Society, in Lawrence, on the 29th and 30th of Sep-
tember last.

From the opportunities which I have had of passing several
times through this county, within the last twenty years, from
the unusual intelligence and public spirit which I have ever
found characteristic of its inhabitants, and from my personal
acquaintance with the present officers of the society, I confess
that I anticipated that this annual festival would be of a high
grade, and I was not disappointed.

There was, however, little in the exhibition that was pecu-
liar, and therefore I can hardly be expected to go into much
detail, especially as the Secretary has given a judicious and
lucid report of the proceedings.

It is certainly an interesting fact, as stated in this Report,
that not less than seven thousand visited the spacious hall in
Lawrence, devoted to the exhibition, although a fee was de-
manded, which realized to the Society the sum of ^700. And
such a gathering was the more impressive to me, when I recol-
lected that where that hall stood, and the city that surrounded
it, was only a few years since a dreary plain. I could not but
exclaim, " Essex County knows how to grow cities as well as
fruits and grasses."

The brilliant Address of General Oliver, on this occasion,
dwelt on the subject of agricultural education : which I am
glad to say has been the theme of two-thirds of the studied
and extemporaneous addresses which I have heard at agricul-
tural fairs for the last four or five years. Such facts show the
state of public sentiment in the State on this subject, and my
conviction is, that did the government of this State know how
general, I might say, almost universal, is this sentiment, they
would at once yield to the public will and establish an agricul-
tural school or schools, such as would satisfy the demand of

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 675

our intelligent population. Just so long as this is delayed will
the brightest days of our agricultural prosperity be kept back.
All other means will, in my opinion, be insufficient without
schools.

I noticed that the principal field devoted to the spirited
ploughing match was in many places full of drift, and I was
interested to see how adroitly the ploughmen contrived to turn
strait furrows in spite of frequent bowlders. I was struck with
the marked superiority of the ploughs over those I had seen
employed in Europe, especially on the continent. In the vast
meadows along the Rhine I had seen fine ploughing ; but an
American farmer would laugh at their ploughs, and I think it
would have been an amusing sight if some of those imple-
ments, with Belgian or Rhenish farmers to guide them, had
been present attempting to compete with the farmers of Essex
in a field abounding with pebbles and bowlders.

It was interesting, at this exhibition, to see manufacturers
and farmers brought into such close and harmonious juxtapo-
sition. This is just as it always should be : that is, these two
great interests should mutually sustain each other. The me-
chanics of Lawrence did not fail to adorn the walls and tables
of the hall with rich specimens of their labors.

Of the agricultural products exhibited, I thought the fruits
and garden vegetables the best. And if I do not mistake
Essex County is distinguished for the superiority of her pomo-
logical and horticultural products. Whether this is owing to
higher skill and greater diligence, or may in part be attributed
to some peculiar ingredients in the soil, is a point not easily
settled. But I will venture a suggestion. Essex County, more
generally than any other part of the State, is based upon un-
stratified rocks, such as granite, syenite and trap. The two pre-
dominant minerals in these rocks are feldspar and hornblende
— the first containing at least fifteen per cent, of potash and one
or two per cent, of soda ; and the latter seven or eight per cent,
of lime. May it not be, that we have in these ingredients of
the rocks, especially the potash, which gets into the soil by
decomposition, more or less, one of the secrets of success that
has attended the cultivation of fruits and garden vegetables in
Essex ? The best fruit orchards that I have seen are situated
upon stony and uneven ground, and where the bowlders or the

676 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

ledges abounded in feldspar or hornblende ; perhaps I ought to
add mica slate regions ; and here, too, in the mica we have
from eight to ten per cent, of potash. May there not be some
connection between the occurrence of alkalies in the subjacent
rocks and success in these departments of culture ?

Let me add another suggestion. If any such connection
should be made out, (or even if it is not,) may not farmers,
whose farms abound in feldspar and hornblende, find it for
their interest to seek those spots where the rocks are decaying,
and by collecting the disintegrating matter spread it over their
land as they would bone dust or ashes ? Or is it not possible
that it wiU be found to pay the expense in such a State as
Massachusetts, where feldspar is so abundant, to resort to a
method that has been proposed, and to some extent adopted,
in other countries, for decomposing this mineral, viz.: by
burning it with lime ?

But I will add no more on a subject that seems hardly ap-
propriate for this report.

Respectfully submitted,

EDWARD HITCHCOCK.
Amherst, Jan. 1, 1853.

P. S. — I have also attended the Agricultural Fair of Nor-
folk County, in Dedham, on the 29th of September, and had
some opportunity of glancing at farming operations in that
county. It is not for me to report upon the Fair, which will
be done by a colleague. But I feel constrained to advert to
the admirable arrangements which were made at the exhibi-
tion, superior to any which I have ever witnessed on similar
occasions, and which seem to me to be greatly needed in aU
our societies. At Dedham everything seemed to be in place,
and every man knew what he w^as expecte'd to do. It seemed
to me an interesting example of the manner in which military
rules may be applied to regulate large gatherings of citizens.

It was gratifying also to see what progress has been made
in the cultivation of farms, both in Norfolk and Essex Coun-
ties, since the time, more than twenty years ago, when, in tra-
versing the State, I had an eye upon these things. I did not

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 677

suppose that we have in New England, farms and gardens
that will compare so favorably with the best I saw in Europe,
as many will now in Norfolk and Essex.

MR. WALKER'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE MIDDLESEX SOCIETY.

The Fifty-eighth Annual Festival of this Society, the oldest
in the Commonwealth, was held at Concord, on the 6th day
of October last.

An immense concourse of people were in attendance from
all parts of the county. The day was favorable, and the
arrangements having been made with great judgment by per-
sons long familiar with the details of such an exhibition, and
executed by those accustomed to perform like duties, every-
thing was conducted with order and decorum. No time was
lost, no confusion occurred, and ample opportunity was given
for all the proceedings necessarily connected with the occasion.

The ploughing match was first in order. To this there were
forty-three entries from all sections of the county, and no less
than thirty-seven teams actually engaged in the contest; a
larger number than we have witnessed in any ploughing
match in the State, indicating very unequivocally the great
interest taken by the farmers of Middlesex in this part of their
exhibition. The scene excited great interest.

The trial took place in an extensive field lying upon one of
the banks of the Concord River, belonging to the gentleman
who represents the Society at this Board, and was admirably
adapted to the purpose. A more spirited scene has never,
perhaps, been exhibited on any similar occasion.

The large number of competitors, the excellence of the teams
and ploughs, and the numerous spectators gathered about the
spot and looking on from every little surrounding eminence,
all combined to make the display one of unusual interest.
The work was well and rapidly executed. One team accom-
plished its share — one-eighth of an acre — in seventeen minutes,
and all was done so neatly and expeditiously, that it must

678 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

have been no easy task for the judges to award the premiums
to entire satisfaction.

The trial of working oxen next followed, and twenty ox
teams and four horse teams were entered. The weight to be
drawn was 7,200 pounds. The manner in which the work
was executed gave satisfactory evidence that the teams were
powerful and well disciplined, the drivers skilful and accus-
tomed to their work.

The show at the pens was very fine ; much good stock was
entered, among which were several valuable animals, both
imported and native. Had the undersigned expected to be
called upon to report upon this exhibition, he would have
taken such notes at the time, of this part of it, as would have
enabled him, in some measure, to do it justice.

The display of fruits, flowers, vegetables, &c., &c., held in
the town hall, was truly grand, and we were made to feel
that this was the exhibition of a society long established, and
in one of the most favored portions of the Commonwealth; for
here were gathered together such a vast collection of products,
and of such rare perfection as can only be found in a region
where long attention has been paid to the cultivation of both
the garden and the farm.

Your committee cannot particularize. The apples, pears,
peaches and grapes, were in great variety and unusual excel-
lence. Of apples, especially, there were numerous specimens
of uncommon size and beauty. The Hubbardston Nonesuch,
which in some parts of the State is but little cultivated,
seemed here to be one of the principal, and certainly one of
the largest and finest fruits. For raising apples, Middlesex
County stands very high, and will compare favorably with any
other in the State.

When the exhibition was over, a procession was formed,
and, preceded by a band of music, marched to the church,
where an excellent Address was delivered by Hon. Luther V.
Bell, principally upon the influence which the science of
Chemistry may exert on Agriculture. It was listened to with
great attention ; after which the members of the society and
invited guests repaired to the hotel, where a dinner was pro-
vided, and the usual speeches, sentiments, &c., &c., were
offered.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 679

The occasion throughout was one of high gratification to all
who feel an interest in the progress of agriculture. The Mid-
dlesex Society possesses large resources. It ought to do much
for agriculture, for it has been long in operation ; it is situated
in a rich section of the Commonwealth, it embraces a large
number of gentlemen of talent, fortune, leisure, and taste. It
is under high obligations to the cause ; and, judging from its
last exhibition, we think it will not fail to accomplish all the
friends of agriculture and horticulture have a right to expect
from it.

Respectfully submitted,

AMASA WALKER.

MR. BREWER'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE WORCESTER WEST SOCIETY.

The Worcester West Agricultural Society held its First
Exhibition at Barre, on Thursday, the 30th day of Septem-
ber last. It was one of those delightful autumnal days which,
among mountain scenery, lends a most pleasing influence to
the mind, and leads it, by genial associations and the beautiful
appearances of nature, to the direct source of all our higher
and nobler aspirations.

The arrangements for this occasion were judiciously made,
and anticipated every contingency, giving to each distinct
feature its appropriate hour. These were duly recognized by
every contributor, and well executed by the efficient marshal
of the day and his assistants. The exhibition was sustained
with deep interest in all its departments, and gave satisfactory
evidence that the members of this society appreciate their in-
terests in sustaining and enlarging this model of their future
operations. Some of the prominent attractions of the day
were, in a particular manner, the spirit of harmony and good
feeling which seemed to pervade the mind of every member of
the multitude here collected. A disposition to please and be
pleased was the predominant feature, and spread its happy in-
fluences over all.

680 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

The ploughing match was nobly contested by the several
competitors, maintaining the character so long established
by the Worcester County farmers for their improved ploughs,
their well-disciplined teams, and skilful ploughmen.

The exhibition of swine was an interesting feature of attrac-
tion, both in point of numbers as well as their condition, and
gave evidence that they would soon supply an additional rib
of comfort to their respective owners. Most of them on ex-
hibition were fine representatives from the Suffolk family.

The sheep pens, too, had their distinct features of interest,
in mutton, lamb, and wool. Each was represented by the
respective candidates for the premiums offered ; and one in
particular, of surpassing size and length of fleece, the hero of
the flock, seemed determined to demand more than one. And
his shepherd too, like some others, who are accused of caring
more for the fleece than the flock, seemed resolved on having
one good clip by securing two years' fleece at the next shearing.

The show of bulls was fine ; but for working oxen, milch
cows, beef cattle, and young stock, it would hardly sustain the
high character which this portion of the county has for so long
time had awarded to it in this interesting department.

The show of horses was the all-absorbing feature ; its una-
bated interest was sustained through the day, and awakened
the inquiry in my mind whether it was not absorbing too
much interest in the minds of our farmers generally.

The show of poultry was quite limited in numbers, and but
few families were represented. The bantams were vociferating
their repeated challenge, and were occasionally responded to
by some hoarse citizen from the Oriental shores, or by the
shrill precaution to quit, quit, from Turkey. From the flat-
footed family there was no delegate present ; possibly from
the fact that the president and secretary of the society are
both of them eminent, as well educated physicians, and would
have no sympathy for quacks.

The hall devoted to Pomona was very attractive. The con-
tributions from her store house were magnificent, embracing all
the varieties most esteemed by her friends, and many such
were here whose sincere attachments to her were demonstrated
in this familiar manner. But the clock has given the signal to
leave these external enjoyments, which have so long feasted

MASS. BOAUD OF AGRICULTURE. 681

the eye, to dispose of those so richly prepared for the inner
man. Four hundred successful competitors for seats at the
table were called to order, and as a committee of the whole on
the state of the union, (after the Divine blessing had been fer-
vently invoked by the venerable chaplain of the day, Rev. Dr.
Thompson,) took up the bill of fare before them, which was
examined and freely discussed by articles, separately. The
Hon. Amasa Walker was now introduced to the audience by
the president, and finished the duties of the day by his Address,
which was listened to with that intent interest which is his —
peculiarly his — to arouse and sustain.

Respectfully submitted,

FRANCIS BREWER.

GOV. BOUTWELL'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE HAMPSHIRE, HAMPDEN & FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

The undersigned having been present at the Annual Fair of
the Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin Agricultural Society,
and having been requested by the Board of Agriculture to re-
port thereon, though not originally charged with that service,
has the honor to submit an imperfect statement of the exhibi-
tion of said society.

The exhibition continued two days, but the undersigned was
present only on the last. He is unable to speak of the exhibi-
tion of 1852, in comparison with the exhibition of the society
in previous years; but he feels justified in saying that it was
altogether creditable as compared with other societies in the
Commonwealth.

The department devoted to manufactures was unusually
complete and attractive ; that of fruit and vegetables appeared
to correspond very nearly with the first class exhibitions of
other societies, while the show of horses was superior to any
which it has been the fortune of the undersigned to witness.

The undersigned regrets that he is unable to present a more
full report upon the subject committed to him.

GEO. S. BOUTWELL.

682 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

MR. NASH'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE HAMPDEN SOCIETY.

In accordance with the instructions of the Board, I attended
the Annual Exhibition of the Hampden Society, at Spring-
field, on the 29th and 30th of September.

This is an old society ; is situated in a fine agricultural
district ; and has done well in former years. I therefore ex-
pected much, and was not disappointed. The exhibition, as a
whole, and in each of its parts, was creditable to the society.

Of the show of cattle and other stock, I cannot speak wholly
from personal observation, as a part of the animals had been
removed before my arrival. What remained would justify the
conclusion, that the exhibition had been highly respectable, so
far as the character of the animals was considered, though I
understood, that not as many were entered as on some former
occasions.

The trial of draft oxen took place on the afternoon of the
first day. Great interest was manifested in this part of the
exhibition. It consisted in taking up and down State Street,
with single pairs of oxen, many of which were not large, a cart
loaded with pig iron, weighing 5,300 lbs. As this was to be
taken up and down a rather steep hill, turned round and back-
ed ; and especially as it had to be done in a press of spectators,
which was troublesome to both the teams and drivers, the
trial seemed rather a severe one. Such a test may have been
wise on that occasion. The known sound judgment and prac-
tical good sense of the officers of the society decides that it
was. But it would not be for the interest of farmers to load
their cattle as heavily more than one day in the year. The ox
is a faithful animal. He will do his utmost when bid. But
he cannot do it often without injury to himself and loss to his
owner. On this occasion the cattle performed well, and the
drivers appeared like men who understood their business. If
there was anything to complain of, it was, that the spectators
did not allow sufficient room. Something was due to the men,
who had brought their teams, some of them from great dis-
tances, for the purpose of exhibiting their working qualities.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 683

The exhibition of fruits was good. Of these, there were
234 entries. In vegetables, of which there were 306 entries,
the Hampden Society outdid anything I have witnessed other-
where. And as was to be expected, the department of the
mechanic arts was nobly represented. At the show of horses,
which took place on the morning of the second day, 85 horses,
mostly carriage and draft horses, were exhibited. Many of
them were fine animals ; were well trained, and evinced an
advanced stage of improvement in this branch of rural
economy.

The dinner, at Washington Hall, was well " got up," and
well " put down ;" after which, a very earnest and interesting
Address was delivered by Wm. S. King, Esq., of the Journal
of Agriculture on " The Application of Mind to the Cultiva-
tion of the Earth." Ex- Governor Briggs followed Mr. King,
in his usually happy style ; and the company then adjourned.

The gathering was uncommonly large. The utmost good
order prevailed throughout. Whether it was owing to the
vigilance of the city government, or to the general good char-
acter of the multitudes assembled, or, what is more probable,
to both, I know not, but for some reason, there was manifested
a sobriety, an abstinence from intemperance, profanity and
every species of rudeness, which struck me as eminently wor-
thy of remark. Too much praise cannot be given to the presi-
dent of the society, Thos. J. Shepard, to its other officers, and
to citizens of Springfield generally, for their successful efforts
to make a good time for the assembled thousands.

J. A. NASH.

MR. PAGE'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE FRANKLIN SOCIETY.

I suppose that the main object of this Board in appointing
delegates to attend the exhibitions of the several agricultural
societies, is, to ascertain their actual condition. I shall there-
fore confine myself to a plain statement of such facts as came
under my observation, adding such remarks as may occur to me.

684 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

The Cattle Show and Exhibition of the Franklin County-
Agricultural Society were held at Greenfield, on the 29th and
30th days of September. I reached the town at about half-past
eleven o'clock of the first day. I found the streets filled with
people, all bound in one direction, and evidently intent upon
some interesting objects. Arrived at the points of attraction,
my attention was first called to a large number of very hand-
some oxen in the yoke. They had apparently been connected
in regular column, but were then about taking their departure
from the field in larger or smaller detachments, some of them
to take part in the drawing match. Many, it was said, had
already gone. I should judge that there were then upon the
ground at least sixty pairs. The town teams were, to me, a
novel and interesting sight. I was told that Shelburne furnish-
ed 44, and Conway 24 yokes, and that fewer towns exhibited
than on former occasions.

Of domestic fowls, a few specimens were exhibited, of ex-
cellent quality.

The swine were not numerous nor remarkable. Their breed
was not stated, nor was I able to detect it. Some of them
were fine animals.

Of sheep there was not a great number, but they were more
numerous than we usually find in the eastern counties, and
some were of great merit.

In the exhibition of milch cows, I was disappointed. I knew
that Franklin County was a good grazing country, and I ex-
pected to see a large number of cows of prime quality. I think
not more than half a dozen were on exhibition, and none of
them struck me as of extraordinary merit. I heard some rea-
sons suggested why that part of the exhibition was not better,
and among others, the extreme drought of the summer. But,
after all allowances, the farmers of the county did not do
themselves justice in that particular.

In heifers and steers the show was equal to any that I have
seen. There were some 10 or 12 bulls in the pens, of various
ages and sizes, but none that appeared to me remarkable for
their good points. In so good a farming district, I should have
been gratified to find evidence of greater attention to the quali-
ties of breeding stock.

The fat cattle were not numerous, but good. Among them

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 685

was a pair of oxen, owned by Mr. Consider Arms, of Conway,
weighing 5,500 lbs., the finest pair of fat cattle I have ever seen.

Of horses I was informed that there were more than forty
entries. Those animals were exhibited to great advantage in
an assigned portion of the public street. They were put
through their paces in harness and under the saddle, and afford-
ed the committee a much better opportunity to judge of their
qualities than is found when they are confined in the pens, as
is usual in most counties. An exhibition of that most interest-
ing and valuable animal both in repose and in motion would
be an improvement upon either mode by itself. Among them
were some horses of rare beauty.

I was unable to attend the drawing match, which was said
to have been well contested by about twenty teams.

The ploughing match, which is usually so attractive a fea-
ture in our exhibitions, was a failure. Instead of the large
number of competitors which I had expected to see, only seven
teams entered the lists. From some cause which I cannot ex-
plain, the proprietors of all ploughs but Ruggles, Nourse &
Mason's withdrew from the contest. The few who remained
performed their work well.

At the town hall, the exhibition of fruits, vegetables, the
products of the dairy, fancy articles, domestic manufactures,
the mechanic arts, &c., was of the most gratifying character.

It has been a fault that our farmers have been unwilling: to
present specimens of the common products of the farm. That
fault extends in some degree to Franklin County. A con-
siderable quantity of vegetables, however, was exhibited, but
little space was allowed them. The object seemed to be to
exhibit specimens of monstrous growth rather than fair sam-
ples of staple crops. An improvement might be made in that
respect in all our societies, including the leading horticultural
society in the State.

The exhibition of apples was admirable, showing that the
county is well adapted to the growth of that most valuable of
our fruits. The varieties were numerous and the qualities of
each excellent. Of pears, peaches and grapes but few were on
the tables, and those not of remarkable quality.

In butter, cheese, bread, various articles of domestic manu-
facture, and in the mechanic arts, the exhibition was rich.

686 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

There were many things deserving of special notice ; but I
must forbear. It is but just to say that here, as everywhere
end always, woman had done and was doing her full share to
promote the honor of the county and contribute to the pleasure
of visitors.

There was too little space for the exhibition of so great a
variety of articles. The society needs a much larger hall in
order to do justice to the men and women who do so much to
make the show attractive.

An Address was delivered by Professor Mapes, and was, as
might be expected, full of useful hints and well calculated to
stimulate thought in the farmers of Franklin.

The dinner, provided at the Mansion House, by Mr. Field,
was excellent, and partaken of by as many happy and thank-
ful people as could find seats at the table. There was but one
thing wanting. The ladies, to whom that society, like all
others, owes so much of its success, did not grace the tables
by their presence.

This was the third annual exhibition of the society. Its
affairs seem to be managed with great skill and judgment.
"With a single exception, that remarkable order and decorum,
which I have noticed on similar occasions elsewhere, prevailed
here. All classes seemed to enter into the spirit of the day,
and to do all in their power to make the exhibition successful
and the occasion agreeable.

The Franklin County Society promises to be one of the
most attractive and flourishing of the sisterhood of kindred
associations.

J. H. W. PAGE.

DR. REED'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE HAMPSHIRE SOCIETY.

We speak of our County Agricultural Societies as a band
of sisters. Never was the epithet so emphatically just as at
this time. The Hampshire Society is one of this group. Of
that we are now to speak, and would remark, in passing, that

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 687

we found a cordial and welcome greeting from the officers of
the society, and other citizens of Amherst. We saw enor-
mously long strings of fine oxen with which they are wont to
fill the common on such occasions, and the fine specimens of
other cattle of various races, ages and qualities ; fine horses in
large numbers, good hogs, some sheep, and a multitude of the
hen family. Two large halls, filled with fruits, flowers, vege-
tables, grains, agricultural implements, and the various em-
blems and productions of mechanical skill, were opened to
us. Here, also, were found the bread and butter, showing,
to our full satisfaction, that the Hampshire ladies well
know which side their bread is buttered. Here, also, were
gathered the ten thousand other productions of female skill
and ingenuity.

The Hampshire Society devote but one day to their exhibi-
tion. We were there and reported present in good season.
We were first conducted to the exhibition of horses. Between
one and two hundred in all were before the committee. They
were viewed both standing and in motion, while some hun-
dreds of people were present. The show honored the society.
Time allowed but a glance at this lively scene, and we were
off to the ploughing match. Our first feeling as we entered
the field was surprise at the comparatively small number
of spectators, — a few hundreds, — while the ploughing match
often brings out thousands. On a fair piece of meadow, a
very good number of teams, some of horses, some of a single
pair of cattle, and others of more than one, had already made
considerable progress in their work. The teams were decided-
ly good, the ploughs were some of the very best, including the
Michigan or double sod and subsoil ploughs, both of Ruggles
& Co. and Prouty & Co., and the work, generally, well done in
all respects. We noticed one thing we had not before seen.
Each ploughman had a person to drive his team. Single
teams, well trained, do not require this. If the training is so
imperfect as to require this, it is an important practical item,
and should be considered in making the awards.

After passing rapidly among the stock of various kinds, we
entered the hall where the fruits, and also the lighter works of
art were displayed. The crowd here was so great that one

688 MASS. BOAUD OF AGRICULTURE.

could go only where that carried him, and see only that to
which he was presented. Leaving this, we visited the other
hall ; this was but little less crowded.

A procession was now formed, and marched to the College
Chapel, where an Address was given by Mi*. Goldthwait, of the
Westfield academy. It was a beautiful blending of the scien-
tific with the practical, and reflected credit both on the head
and heart of the author. The procession was re-formed, and
proceeded immediately to the dinner, at which were assem-
bled some three or four hundred ladies and gentlemen. The
award of premiums was made by the several committees, with-
out statements or reasons. A statement of the financial ^con-
cerns of the society was then made by its president, Mr.
Baker. The fund had been raised above the demands of the
Commonwealth. In this the ladies had asserted their true rights
— the right of being coworkers in doing good. The Hampshire
Society presents the beautiful feature of more than two hun-
dred life members from the ladies' circle. Remarks were made
by Hon. Edward Dickinson, president of the festal board ;
Hon. Amasa Walker, Dr. Reed, Dr. Hitchcock, Mr. Golthwait,
and others. The remarks were brief but practical and highly
instructing.

The day we had enjoyed highly. Everything had been
admirably managed. No delays had occurred in any part of
the proceedings. The time had been well used, and all used.
All which energy, activity and good judgment in a board of
managers could do, had been done.

But one thing they could not do. They could not create
time, or bring back the shadow on the plate of the dial. Never
before have we felt so deeply, as on that day, that less should
be undertaken, or two days be devoted to the work.

To dispense with the exhibition of stock would be to give
up the society. The halls and the ladies, whatever others
may do, the Hampshire Society will not relinquish. It would
be the folly of fools anywhere, but in Hampshire, it would be
worse than this. The address no one would give up, and the
dinner we all love to well. More time, then, must be taken.
We believe our Hampshire friends will concur in this feeling.
Were the object of the day merely the premiums, it would

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 689

matter far less. But this is a mere collateral. The great
object is to reach the heart through the eye ; to show, that
those who see may learn, and go home and not only do as
well, but make still further advances. In fruit, for example, an
exhibition like the one at Amherst will do more to improve in
choice varieties, will set more valuable scions and put out
more young trees, than all other causes, acting through the
year without the exhibition. Then what an opportunity for
comparing varieties, fixing names, ascertaining what kinds are
best adapted to the soil and climate of the locality. What a
pity, then, that such a collection, after all the expense of gath-
ering, labelling, and arranging has been incurred, should not
remain until all who wish have had an opportunity to exam-
ine. We place it as a broad axiom, that what is worth exhibit-
ing, is worth holding until it can be seen. In the exhibition
was an instrument most beautifully applying the principle of
the Pentagraph to landscape drawing, a new application, as
valuable and useful, as simple and beautiful; and yet we
much doubt whether one-fourth part of those who attempted
to examine the articles in that hall even saw it. The same
remark would apply to many other articles, both in the halls
and out.

We have mentioned our surprise at seeing so small a num-
ber, comparatively speaking, at the ploughing. A second
thought dispelled that surprise. The people could not be at
several places at the same time. The horses were beino- ex-
hibited, the various animals were coming in and being
arranged on the common, half a mile distant. The articles
for both halls must be received and arranged. Nearly twenty
committees were actively engaged attempting to crowd into
one or one and a half hours, abundant labor for four or six.
None of these could be present at the ploughing; and they are
the persons very deeply interested. This whole competition,
into which enter the training of the team, the skill of the
ploughman, and the perfection of the plough — the most im-
portant implement of the farmer's business — should have been
witnessed by every person in the vicinity who owns allegiance
to our mother earth, and cheered by the presence of their
wives and daughters. Noble deeds on the ploughing field
87

690 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

often find premiums richer than silver and more desirable than
cups and spoons.

"We have left many points untouched, but our time, like
that of our friends at Amherst, is full, more than full. Were
it as well filled as theirs, we should feel much better satisfied.

S. REED.

MR. PROCTOR'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE BERKSHIRE SOCIETY.

This time-honored association held its Annual Show on the
6th and 7th days of October. One of the pioneers, as it was,
in agricultural enterprise, it is entitled to all the distinction due
to discriminating efforts for the good of the public. Thanks
to the vigilant yeomanry of Berkshire for the seed thus early
planted, which has so grown and flourished that its branches
overshadow the land. The late Mr. Webster, when he met
his New England friends at Washington, in June last, happily
referred to the Berkshire County Society as the file leader of
all others in our land, and gave the endorsement of his match-
less intellect to the utility of these county organizations. Let
those who have the rashness to question their value, reflect on
their own comparative ability to judge.

Fortunately there are those still living who participated in
the formation of this society, who are able to relate intelligibly
the adventures of their youth. It was our privilege to meet
one of these venerable men, with locks whitened by the frosts
of seventy winters, and hands hardened by the toils of half a
century, but with mind and memory bright as a morning in
June. Since our visit, a highly interesting pamphlet of sixty
pages, published by Elkanah Watson, Esq., the first Presi-
dent of the Society, in 1819, has come to hand, giving the de-
tails of the origin of this society, as well as many useful hints
for the formation and management of such societies ; indicat-
ing a clear apprehension of the benefits to be derived from
them. There is much to be learned before our ideas on these
subjects will be as comprehensive as were those of our fathers.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 691

In addition to the plough and the loom, paraded in procession
at their first show in 1811, was a miniature woollen factory in
full operation. What then appeared only in miniature, has
since so fully developed its power, as to fill the valleys of
Berkshire with beautiful and comfortable dwellings, and to
people her hills with a class of independent yeomanry, second
to none in energy and intelligence. The men are proportioned
to the hills they inhabit. We had to look up to get a view of
their eyes. The mountain air, and the mountain labor, are
admirably adapted to rear a race of men altogether more ener-
getic than those who are pent up in the half ventilated apart-
ments of mechanical industry. More dollars may be earned
in such employments, but dollars alone are not the acquisitions
to be regarded by the State. That State which would have
men worthy the name of men, should have regard to those
employments which tend to develop their physical energies,
and to fit them to do some service when such services are
needed, either in the senate or in the field. How else may we
hope to replenish the giant minds of our country, so many of
whom have recently been summoned home.

As one passes along the vallies of the Housatonic and Hoo-
sic Rivers, a spirit of improvement is apparent, extending from
the mountain tops across the wide-spread plains below, all of
which are checkered with luxuriant fields of corn and grain.

The substantial churches erected on the foundations laid by
our Puritan Fathers, and the pleasantly located school-rooms
in every district, show that the elements of true greatness are
here. Where a people have a full supply of the necessaries
and conveniences of life, as the result of their own industry, this
people are truly independent. More than this leads to tempta-
tion, often without deliverance from evil.

A distinguishing feature in the operations of this Society is
their system of viewing crops while growing. One hundred
ninety-tivo entries of this description were reported by the view-
ing committee, all of which had been visited by them, occupy-
ing at least one week's time. If followed by statements in detail
of culture and produce, as they should be, together with a precise
description of the condition of the land when the culture was
commenced, the time, manner, and depth of ploughing, the
kind and quantity of manure applied, &c., &c., a mass of useful

692 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

intelligence must be the consequence. This mode of viewing
crops partakes of the plan of viewing farms entire, so success-
fully practised in years past, by the State and some of the
County Societies. In the statements thus elicited, will be
found a summary of the best specimens of New England
farming. Not speculative, but practical, drawn from actual
experience.

The entries of animals in the several departments compared
favorably with those reported in former years, presenting ob-
jects sufHcient to absorb the premiums offered, but by no
means a full representation of the best. Each of these classes
will be noticed by the committees intrusted with this service,
with more accuracy and discrimination than is in my power
to give. Nor would we presume to put our judgment in com-
parison with that of these practical men, who have spent their
lives in the rearing and management of stock. Those of best
experience are, or should be, selected for the discharge of these
duties.

Our attention was particularly arrested by a milch cow, of
native breed, that had yielded 188 pounds of butter in 120
days, with no other feed than common pasture and four quarts
of shorts daily. When native cows of this quality can readily
be found, there can be no necessity of importing Diirhams,
Ayrshires, or Jerseys, for ordinary dairy purposes. We con-
sider a stock of cows good which yield daily through the usual
butter-making season, (from May 20th to September 20th,) on
good pasture feed only, one pound of butter each. It is rare
to find on a farm half a dozen cows that come up to this mark ; —
though individual cows may often be found, when full fed,
yielding tivo pounds of butter per day. Several such were
presented at this show.

As was to be expected in Berkshire, sheep were present in
every form and variety : some thirty or forty parcels, exhibited
generally in the vehicles in which they rode\ An examination
under such circumstances, required more skill than we pos-
sessed, to speak with confidence of their distinguishing .char-
acteristics. The committee spoke well of them.

The competition in the exhibition of horses was truly grati-
fying ; for more than an hour the spacious avenue south-
westerly of the Common, in Pittsfield, was crowded with a

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 693

multitude of admirers of the movements of these animals.
Never have we seen them exercised to better advantage. If we
do not mistake, Berkshire is entitled to a prominent position
in this department. It was well remarked by the committee,
in regard to the competition for these premiums : " The prin-
cipal benefit is not the taking of the prizes, even though much
larger than they are. It is the bringing the animals to the
notice of thousands, to whom they would otherwise never be
known."

The hall for the exhibition of articles of manufacture, fruits,
flowers, &c., was crowded to its full extent, evincing not only
the abundance of the supply, but the necessity for enlarged
accommodations. Much is to be learned in this department
of the exhibition. It is viewed with interest by all, especially
by the ladies, where the works of their own hands are displayed.
And why should they not be displayed ? With a proper ar-
rangement, and a small admission fee, cheerfully paid, it may
readily be made a remunerating department. We have known
societies who realized enough from their hall for the exhibition
of manufactured articles, &c., to pay all their premiums for the
season. It is a perfectly fair mode of balancing the account.

On the morning of the second day all hands were on the
alert for the ploughing field. There were entered twenty teams
— twelve with pairs of horses, eight with pairs of oxen, without
drivers. To each was assigned one-quarter of an acre, to be
ploughed in fifty minutes, (one hour would have been a better
time,) with a furrow slice not less than six inches deep nor
more than twelve inches wide ; to be laid flat by the horse
teams, and lapjjed by the ox teams, that opportunity might be
given, in the cultivation of the land, to compare the benefits of
the difierent modes of laying the furrow slice. The field was
well adapted to the experiment, excepting a want of proper
tenacity in the sod, a material consideration in judging of the
operations of different ploughs. Where land is so abundant,
it would seem to be easy to secure a field which is exactly fit-
ted for the purpose, by proper attention in season. We forbear
to extend remarks on the ploughing, as full justice will be done
by the discriminating judgment of the chairman of the commit-
tee, (Judge Bishop.) We were gratified to find, in conspicuous
position, our favorite implement, the Michigan Sod and Subsoil

694 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Plough. The more we see of its operations the better we like
it. For the complete pulverization of the soil it is the "one
thing needful." It has within itself principles that will endure.
It is not a mushroom production.

The form of awarding premiums is a marked peculiarity of
this society, worthy of special notice. It has been practised
from the beginning. Instead of giving money, a piece of plate
of the same value is given. These are delivered by the officers
in the presence of the assembly to the successful competitor.
The scene is exciting ; the interest awakened is intense, both
in the recipient and in the surrounding multitude. If the arti-
cles were marked with the name of the society, the recipient,
and the time and cause of delivery, it would give additional
inducements for their preservation. We were favorably im-
pressed with this mode of award, and believe it worthy of
imitation by other societies.

What more interesting sight could be presented on the
homestead of the farmer than a closet well stocked with these
honorable trophies ? The coarse bunting taken from an enemy
by brute force, often in a contest of doubtful character for
honor and propriety, is cherished with a sacred care, from
generation to generation ; but of how much greater value is
the trophy earned by generous rivalry in the cultivation of the
arts of peace ? Where is the man who would not be proud
to transmit an heir-loom of this description to his descendants?
We can truly say, that if we had a piece of plate, awarded to our
father forty years ago, as the best ploughman among twenty
competitors, we should esteem it of more value than any colo-
nel's commission ever issued by any governor of the Com-
monwealth, even though it might have the Massachusetts
Indian, with his bow and arrow, stamped thereon.

The gratification anticipated from the Address expected of
Dr. Lee, of Washington, on this occasion, was not realized.
By some accident, there was a misapprehension between the
Doctor and the officers of the society. Hence a lesson, never
go far from home for that which can be quite as well obtained
near by. We have looked upon the annual address before our
county societies as a legitimate production of the county; and
in our connection with the administration of the affairs of the
Essex County Society, for thirty years or more, have adhered

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 695

to this rule. If instruction from strangers of distinction is de-
sirable, the dinner table is the most convenient medium of ob-
taining it. Our view of such addresses is so well expressed in
the introductory remarks by our friend the late Henry Colman,
at Andover, 1831, that we claim the indulgence of quoting his
words. " You do not expect," said he, "an oration. Agricul-
ture has little concern with rhetorical flourishes. Determined
principles, plain matters of fact, and the results of well-con-
ducted experiments, are most useful." Far be it from us to
speak disrespectfully of science in agricultural pursuits, — real,
practical science^ as distinguished from the speculations of viS'
ionary sciolists. But there are abroad so many fanciful notions,
such a propensity to humbug-g'eri/, even in farming, and by those
who really know better; and it is so much easier to indulge in
flights of fancy than to engage in well-conducted experiments,
that a/og* has arisen to limit the vision of the inquirer. Prac-
tical experience, well-digested, is the information best suited
to the tastes of the farmers of Massachusetts ; and the most
reliable source of information for the instruction of their sons.
Whenever the State shall have laid a broad and firm founda-
tion for securing this, she will have done her whole duty — and
not till then.

Profiting by the wisdom of the late Lord Timothy Dexter,
of Newburyport, who, in preparing his " Pickle for the Know-
ing Ones," omitted entirely all the punctuation pauses, and
added a full page at the close, to be applied according to the
taste of the reader ; — so we have forbore to bandy compliments
to those from whom we received kind attentions on our visit at
Berkshire — simply saying, that we found the hospitalities of
the county on a par with other improvements.

Respectfully submitted by

JOHN W. PROCTOR.
December, 1852.

696 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

MR. LAWTON'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE HOUSATONIC SOCIETY.

This society was organized ten years ago by a few individ-
uals of Southern Berkshire; they being fully aware of the
benefits arising from properly conducted associations of this
character.

And notwithstanding there then existed a well-conducted
agricultural society, called the Berkshire County Society, the
first oro-anized body that bore the above name in the State,
very many of our enterprising farmers and mechanics in
Southern Berkshire did not appreciate its worth ; being located
so far from Pittsfield, the village where its annual fairs were

held.

In the progress of this society, the Commonwealth very
kindly aided, and adopted her as one of her children ; and she
now stands side by side with the first in the State.

Her permanent fund is 5,316^^^,*^^ dollars, and they hope soon
to double that amount.

The Annual Fair of this Society was held at Great Barring-
ton on the 29th and 30th of September, 1852. At an early
hour the citizens began to assemble, apparently deeply inter-
ested in this grand festival of the farmer.

Various products were brought in from the surrounding
country, which soon filled the apartment assigned for them.
In the mean time, the ladies were not slow in bringing their
domestic manufactures and arranging them in the hall.

The display of the products of the dairy was grand. I
noticed some thirty tubs and pots of butter, all of an excellent
quality, and nearly as many specimens of cheese; most of
which was very rich, with a good flavor, speaking in language
that cannot be misunderstood for the ladies of Berkshire.

The exhibition of flannels, carpetings, blankets, and bed
quilts, was large, and showed good taste and a thorough
knowledge in their manufacture.

There were some beautiful specimens of needle-work and
paintings, being fashioned by the skill and good taste of the
ladies, and wrought by their delicate hands.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 697

I was very sorry to see this society cramped as they were
for room to arrange the different articles brought in for exhibi-
tion. Truly they have outgrown their accommodations, and
should provide for themselves a large tent or hall for future
convenience.

The fruits and (lowers were arranged in the hall of one of
the village school-houses, some twenty rods from the town
hall. The collection of fruits was large and splendid, far ex-
ceeding any one of the kind I have seen in the county, while
that of flowers was not large, though beautiful and well
arranged. I was much gratified to see the famers of Berkshire
paying so much attention to the cultivation of choice fruit.
The exhibition of pears was not as large as that of other
fruits, though there were some specimens of a very fine quality.

The grain crop, owing to the drought, was not as good as in
former years; yet the competition was large and spirited.
There was some fine specimens of potatoes which appeared as
in former years. The crop was good.

The show of cattle was not as large as has been some years
past, owing to the drought, yet the beautiful grove a few rods
west of the village was probably never before graced with as
fine a quality of stock.

I noticed a very fine pair of three-year old steers owned by
Mr. M. Laird, of Great Barrington ; they were of the first
order, and sold on the ground for two hundred dollars.

Some others were very large and nice, which were sold
during the fair for prices a shade below.

The competition on sheep and swine was large, and I noticed
in particular a sow and ten pigs, belonging to A. F. Barnes of
Great Barrington, that were extra. This family was sold a
few days after the fair for seventy dollars. Other families of
swine were there, of similar beauty.

The exhibition of fowls was large, and occupied a very
respectable position on the show grounds.

That of horses was large, and the competitions for premiums
closely contested.

The mechanical productions exhibited were small; I saw
nothing worthy of note.

The ploughing match, on Thursday morning, was a grand
affair. A clear, bright sunshine, beaming upon the valley of

698 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

the Housatonic, with a fine, healthy atmosphere, and the
thousands who had gathered around the lands struck out for
the match on the meadow of Mr. E. Pope, surpassed anything
I have seen in Southern Berkshire.

Thirteen horse and five ox teams entered the field and took
their lands, one-fourth of an acre each, (the assigned depth of
furrow was six inches, and width twelve,) to compete for the
prizes, without drivers.

These lands, though alluvial, were hard to break with the
plough, being very dry, and having a strong sward ; yet the
work was done admirably well, and in time, which was one
hour, including ten minutes rest.

The spirit and skill of the ploughmen, together with their
well-trained teams, interested the large gathering of ladies and
gentlemen for one hour, after which they formed a procession,
and marched to the Congregational Church, where they listened
to an Address delivered by G. P. R. James, Esq., which was
interesting, though not practical.

The house was filled, and a large crowd assembled near the
speaker's stand, which was at the window of the church.

The reports were then read, and premiums delivered in silver
plate. I think this is as it should be, only that the plate
should bear the initials of the society.

The dinner, prepared by Mr. A. F. Barnes, of the Berkshire
House, was good.

Seldom have I seen as large a gathering, with so little dissi-
pation or disorder.

J. R. LAWTON.

MR. WALKER'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE NORFOLK SOCIETY.

In compliance with instructions received from this. Board,
the undersigned attended the Annual Fair of the Norfolk Agri-
cultural Society, held at Dedham, on the 28th and 29th of
September last.

The first day was occupied with the necessary preparations

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 699

for such an occasion and by the committees in awarding pre-
miums.

The undersigned did not arrive on the ground until the
morning of the 29th, when he was received with great courtesy
by the Hon. President of the Society at his beautiful marquee.
Here he found many of the most distinguished friends of agri-
culture from all parts of the State, with whom he proceeded
to examine the various objects of interest.

The ploughing match was first in order, a large number of
powerful and well-managed teams were entered, and partici-
pated in the peaceful rivalry. A highly suitable lot of land
had been selected for the trial. The scene was highly exciting
while in progress, and the work quite satisfactory when com-
pleted.

A spading match succeeded. This was something novel,
and attracted a crowd of spectators. Numerous competitors
entered the lists, nearly all of whom were of foreign birth.
The work was executed with despatch, and in a manner which
showed great skill and tact, in this department of labor. No
part of the exhibition seemed to afford more gratification : and
it was generally felt to be a happy conception on the part of
the managers, as it enabled a new, and not a small class of the
community to share in the competition and premiums of the
fair, who would otherwise be excluded. Many a man among
us at the present day is master of a spade, and ability to use
it, who could not command a plough and team, and has not
yet learned the art of managing either. To this class the pre-
miums offered by the society for the best specimen of spading,
presented an opportunity of which they gladly availed them-
selves, and thus took a part in the interesting proceedings.
That the influence of this upon those concerned must be of
an elevating and socializing character none we think can doubt.

The display of cattle was particularly fine. More blood stock
is probably owned in this county than any other in the State.
Ayrshires and Devonshires predominate, and many remarka-
bly good specimens of both were found in the pens, to several
of which premiums were awarded. The native stock too was
excellent, and the whole show of cattle gave evidence that
great attention is paid to this department of agricultural pro-

700 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

duction, by the wealthy farmers of Norfolk, and no expense
spared by them in importing and improving stock.

The show of horses, too, was good. Probably no county can
produce finer specimens, both for use on the farm and the
road; Many of them were of great value, and altogether they
formed such a collection as can only be found in a section of
the country where very ample means exist for consulting taste
in the selection and rearing of these beautiful and useful ani-
mals.

The number of swine on exhibition was greater than
we have anywhere else seen. Specimens of the celebrated
Suffolk, the prevalent breed, were numerous, and the quality
superior. In no part of the State is the raising of these ani-
mals carried to greater perfection, and to Norfolk more than
any county, do the farmers of the Commonwealth look for the
best samples of this kind of stock.

Of the feathered tribe, such numbers and variety were in
attendance as gave the most unmistakable evidence that am-
ple provision existed for the celebration of the approaching
Thanksgiving in true New England style.

But excellent as were all parts of the exhibition, the most
striking was that presented within the great tent, which had
been wisely procured for the occasion. One-half of this was
partitioned off and set apart for the display of fruits, flowers,
vegetables, &c. The show was extensive and admirable, as
might be expected in a county where so many of our most dis-
tinguished horticulturists and pomologists reside. We found
the greatest variety and profusion of all that adorns the garden
or enriches the dessert.

Large as was the space allotted to this part of the exhibition,-
it was thronged throughout the day with interested visitors,
who seemed to feel that it was one of the most beautiful and
extensive they had ever seen, exceeding that of any other
county, and vieing even with that of the State Horticultural
Society itself.

At about 12 o'clock a procession was formed, under th^ es-
cort of a fine band of music, and proceeded to the church,
where an interesting Address was delivered by W. S. King,
Esq., of Rhode Island, after which the company repaired to the

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 701

tent, the remaining half of which, not appropriated to the ex-
hibition of fruits, &c., afforded excellent accommodations for a
large company of gentlemen and ladies. After dinner the
various premiums of the society were awarded, many speeches
made, and sentiments offered by the friends of agriculture
present.

In conclusion, the undersigned would remark, that he feels
he cannot speak too highly of the very tasteful and excellent
manner in which the whole exhibition was got up and con-
ducted. There was, throughout, the most abundant evidence
that much skill had been put in requisition, and no expense
spared, to render this grand festival of the farmer, what such a
festival should be, a source of high gratification and a means
of substantial benefit.

The Norfolk Society, although one of the youngest, is al-
ready one of the most efficient in the Commonwealth ; a large
number of the most distinguished friends of agriculture reside
within the county, and the people generally take as deep an
interest in husbandry as those perhaps of any other section of
the State. We might, therefore, reasonably anticipate a fine
display of agricultural products and agricultural prowess, and
such was the fact.

But while all arrangements were of the most satisfactory
description, none were, in our estimation, more deserving of
special commendation than the ample provision made for an
elegant and full exhibition of the fruits, flowers, vegetables,
&C.5 and the admission of ladies to the public dinner.

AMASA WALKER.

mmm

702 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

MR. PAGE'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE PLYMOUTH SOCIETY.

The Annual Cattle Show and Fair of the Plymouth County
Agricultural Society were held at Bridgewater on the 7th day
of October.

Ploug-hing- Match. I had no opportunity to witness this in-
teresting part of the exhibition, except as I was passing in the
cars. A goodly number of teams were quietly and steadily
performing their labors as I caught a glimpse of the field, sur-
rounded by a large concourse of spectators. When I arrived
upon the spot, the work had been completed. I was informed
that sixteen teams had competed for the prizes. The ground
appeared to be tough and somewhat gravelly, and well calcu-
lated to test the skill of the ploughman. The work was gen-
erally well done. Sixteen lots had been ploughed.

Working Oxen. I was not able to witness the trial of work-
ing oxen, but I learned from those who were present that
about twenty yokes entered the lists, and did credit to them-
selves and their drivers. Several pairs of promising steers
were exhibited.

Coivs, Heifers, and Bulls. The exhibition of these animals
was not extensive nor of remarkable quality. It was not equal
to what I have before seen in the same county. I think I saw
but three cows ; some of which were, in appearance, of con-
siderable merit. Of heifers and heifer calves there was a larger
number, and of better promise. Several bulls and bull calves
were exhibited, but, in my judgment, none of remarkable
merit, and I am confident that they were not the best that the
county could produce.

Fat Cattle. Some fifteen or twenty fat oxen and cows were
in the pens, many of which were of goodx quality, and did
credit to their pastures.

Horses and Colts. All of this class of animals which I saw
were young, probably twelve or fifteen in number. They
promised well, so far as I could judge, but the horse is always
exhibited at a disadvantage cooped up in a pen, and without
the power to show himself in action. As I have suggested in

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 703

another report, it would be well for our societies to arrange to
have horses exhibited both in repose and action.

Swine. The show of swine was extensive and of high order.
The animals were mostly, in whole or in part, of the Suffolk
breed, and I have not seen a better exhibition.

Domestic Foivls. In this department there were presented,
in vast number and almost endless variety, ducks, geese, tur-
keys, hens, of various plumage and form, and promising well
for the approaching thanksgiving.

Butter and Cheese. The number of entries of these articles
was large, the quality apparently excellent, and highly credita-
ble to the farmers' wives of Plymouth.

Vegetables. The show was good. Many excellent speci-
mens were exhibited, and I was pleased to see that, to a con-
siderable degree, the custom of exhibiting only monstrous pro-
ductions was departed from.

Fruits. In this department the show was admirable. Of
apples, pears, peaches, quinces, plums, grapes, cranberries,
&c., a show was made which, in variety and quality, would
compare reputably with any exhibition that I have wit-
nessed.

Fancy Articles and Manufactures. In these departments,
and especially in articles of domestic manufacture, the exhi-
bition was rich, and worthy of high praise ; attesting the in-
dustry and taste of the fair daughters, and the skill of the
mechanics and manufacturers, of the county.

The dinner was at the hotel. It was conducted in the man-
ner that has, until recently, prevailed in most of our counties.
It was a hurried meal, and we proceeded from the table to the
hall, where an Address was delivered, and the reports of the
committees read.

The Plymouth County Society is one of the oldest in the
State. It has ample funds ; has been conducted with quiet
energy, and has done, and is doing, great good.

It needs more ample room in its hall of exhibition in order
to do justice to its numerous contributors and the crowd of
interested guests. Confining its exhibition to one day, it is
urged on from one thing to another with inconvenient and un-
satisfactory rapidity. I think it will soon find it expedient to
devote two days to this great annual festival, when it will not

704 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

be obliged to deprive itself of the luxury of welcoming the
ladies, its most valuable and efficient coadjutors, to the
banquet.

J. H. W. PAGE.

MR. SPRAGUE'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE BRISTOL SOCIETY.

The Annual Exhibition of the Bristol County Agricultural
Society was held at Taunton on the 14th and 15th of October.

A cold north-east wind indicated an approaching storm,
which came on in the evening of the first day, and continued
through the forepart of the second, and consequently the at-
tendance of a great portion of those who lived at any distance
was prevented. The multitude in attendance on the morning
of the first day gave evidence of the general interest felt on this
occasion.

My attention was first directed to the cattle, as the most at-
tractive and most important object to the farmer. I was pre-
pared to see a large number, and a great variety of large, beau-
tiful cattle, and from the well known disposition of the presi-
dent to have everything in good style and taste, connected with
the influence and usefulness of the society, I expected not
only to be pleased with the cattle but also with the arrange-
ments made for their being exhibited to the best advantage.

The first object that was presented to my eye, on passing
the crowd, was a long, double row of pens, the most rude and
unsightly that was ever hurried together by frontier settlers in
the wilderness amongst log cabins and rude barns, and this,
too, in contrast with the beauty and splendor of the wealthy
town of Taunton. There was a large number of young cattle,
but few that appeared to possess any great excellence. There
were no blood cattle, except two bulls, one belonging .to the
president, a full blood North Devon of good size and fine pro-
portions— a beautiful animal, every way worthy the owner.
The other was a brown or dark color, bearing the name of a
full blood Ayrshire. His color and form were not such as I

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 705

have formerly seen, or such as are described in the books as of
the Ayrshire class.

There was a great number of horses and colts exhibited and
some of superior size and appearance. They gave evidence of
increased attention to the breeding of this noble animal which
ministers so much to the expensive comfort of all.

There was a large number of swine, some beautiful speci-
ments of the Suffolk breed, and others of great excellence.

The feathered tribe flocked here in abundance, to which,
however, I gave but little attention.

There were a few sheep exhibited.

The ploughing match was over before my arrival, and the
ground being distant I had no opportunity to examine the
work. The drawing match was very interesting, twenty or
more teams being engaged in it. The load was a wagon with
3,000 lbs. of stone for steers, and another with 6,500 lbs. for
cattle four years and over. The cattle were large and of fine
appearance and well disciplined, moving in obedience to the
motions of the drivers, who appeared to understand their busi-
ness, and they moved unaided by the whip or noise, and per-
formed their task in the most satisfactory manner. One pair,
four years old, weighed 3,300 lbs ; another pair, five years old,
weighed 3,700 lbs. The three year old steers were of large
size, well matched, well disciplined, and performed their part
well.

I could but admire the patient and persevering attention of
the committee in their unwearied labor in following so large a
number of teams down hill and up, for four or five hours, in a
cold, north-east wind.

The hall appropriated to articles of exhibition was large and
tastefully arranged, exhibiting everything to the best advan-
tage. It would be folly for me to attempt any account or de-
scription with the expectation of giving a just idea of the in-
numerable and beautiful objects spread before the admiring
multitude.

The articles of manufacture from those of the most sub-
stantial kind, of which Taunton, New Bedford and Fall River
abound, to the wares of smaller kind, were worthy of the high
reputation they have attained.

The great display of handy work of the ladies, for ornament
89

706 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

and use, demonstrated the laudable interest they felt in the ob-
jects of the day.

Then there were vegetables in great profusion, such as
squashes, beets, turnips, potatoes, cabbages, cauliflowers, and
some pumpkins, all of so great a variety and so large a size as
to challenge competition.

The president's squashes and pumpkins, as big as half bar-
rels, and other products, evinced his skill in horticulture.

Large quantities of butter, of beautiful yellow color and of
rich flavor, with numerous boxes of honey and the honey-comb,
added much to the excellence of that department.

The fruit was in great abundance. Individuals brought as
many as seventy varieties of apples. Pears also were shown
in as many varieties. The grapes, in quantity and richness of
appearance, were such as are seldom seen.

The hall, which consisted of two stories, was full of articles
and crowded by a large multitude.

The Address, delivered on the second day by the Hon. R. C.
Winthrop attracted a large audience, in spite of the driving
storm, and was worthy the high reputation of that distinguished
statesman.

At the close a procession was formed and escorted by a fine
band of music to a spacious hall, where about four hundred
persons, consisting of ladies and gentlemen, partook of a
sumptuous dinner. The only fault was, the superabundance
of good things — and the only cause I found for regret, was, the
necessity of leaving the company whilst some interesting
speeches were in progress.

This exhibition, as a whole, (those unsightly pens excepted,)
was one of the most pleasing I have ever attended. Great
credit is due to the president for his untiring exertions to have
everything done at the proper time and in its proper order.
His kindness and affectionate solicitude for the accommoda-
tion and happiness of his invited guests added much to the
pleasure of the occasion.

SETH SPRAGtJE.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 707

MR. SPRAGUE'S REPORT.

EXHIBITION OF THE BARNSTABLE SOCIETY.

The Annual Fair of the Barnstable County Agricultural
Society was held at Sandwich, on the 13th of October last.
A cold north-east wind and the threatening aspect of the
weather may have prevented many from attending with their
offerings. However, there was a respectable number of people
present.

My attention was first directed to the place allotted for the
stock, which was well arranged, with a set of beautiful, new
and well-constructed pens. They were not so well filled, how-
ever, as we had hoped to see ; but the few animals that were
exhibited, gave evidence of the ability of that part of the
country to compete with more favored counties.

There were good oxen, good cows, young cattle, and a
pair of very large, round-bodied, beautiful steers. A bull was
pointed out to us, belonging to the society, as being of pure
Ayrshire blood, whose color and general appearance was not
such as we have before seen.

There were present a goodly number of horses and colts, a
few sheep and swine, and several lots of fowls. Of the quality
of this part of the exhibition, we do not pretend to judge, as
we have no great fancy for the flat-breasted, long-legged, awk-
ward birds, now held in such esteem. To us, our full-breasted,
well-formed, lively, native fowls, look far better.

The ploughing match was to come off" at ten o'clock, but
did not commence until after eleven. There entered the list,
five single ox teams and two horse teams, all having drivers
excepting one. The contest was spirited. The ploughmen
exhibited much skill and activity, and, considering the nature
of the ground, which was not favorable to smooth work, it was
well done. Most of the ploughs were small and short, and all,
with one exception, without wheels, — such as we did not con-
sider the best for ploughing greensward. The oxen were of
good size, and some of them superior ; but the yokes, some of
them, we thought small and unsuitable for the size of the
cattle. Their discipline did not appear to have been perfect.

708 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

We noticed one pair of cattle of fine appearance and large
size, that worked, for some cause, so uneven as to bring one
ox at least one foot behind his mate.

As soon as the ploughing was over, we hurried to the
spot appointed for the drawing match, which was to take
place at twelve. Waited until one, and there being no appear-
ance of committee or teams, we repaired to the hotel, where
we found the time appointed for dinner better kept. We were
served with a very good dinner at Hon. E. Pope's hotel, which
we should have relished better if it had been spiced with a few
short speeches from some of the Cape Cod farmers. Dinner
over, we were escorted by a good band of music to the town
hall, where a well written discourse was delivered to an atten-
tive audience, by Simon Brown, Esq., editor of the New Eng-
land farmer. After which, the premiums were announced.

The hall appropriated to manufactures, fruits, articles of the
dairy, &c., was not large, but was well adorned by the skill
and industry of the ladies, with a variety of articles. The few
articles of mechanical skill exhibited were of superior make
and beauty.

We saw but little fruit and few lots of butter, which forced
on us the conviction that the people in that vicinity took little
interest in the object of the society, as their orchards, gardens
and pastures gave evidence of their ability to make a fine dis-
play, equal at least to some of their neighbors.

On the whole, we were impressed with the thought, that
though farming may have been conducted with some profit to
the laborers, yet for causes which are evident, they have not
entered into the spirit of progress and improvement manifest
in some other counties.

Their territory is properly called the Sandy Cape, and can
never become a good grazing district ; but in other respects is
susceptible of as much improvement as other parts.

Good crops of corn and rye are raised on these dry, sandy
hills, and their statistics bear a favorable comparison with their
neighbors. Their intervales are well cultivated and productive.
Attention is being paid to the clearing of swamps and apply-
ing mud and peat to improve the hills.

There are few who rely much on the land for their support.
Great numbers of the male population have spent the best of

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 709

their lives in ploughing the ocean, instead of the land. They
leave their homes at an early age, and thus young are thrown
upon the resources nature affords them. No portion of the
world has produced so large a number of energetic, skilful
sea captains, and enterprising and successful merchants, as
the Sandy Cape.

We were treated with great kindness and much courtesy by
the President, C. B. H. Fessenden, Esq., and other gentlemen,
which added much to our pleasant visit.

SETH SPRAGUE.

ESSAYS

ON AGRICULTURAL SUBJECTS

Soon after the organization of the Board of Agriculture,
several subjects which were deemed most worthy of particular
attention, were referred to different individuals, with the re-
quest that each would furnish an Essay thereon for the use of
the Board. In compliance with this request the following
were presented, adopted, and are herewith published.

ORCHARDS.

BY JOHN C. GKAY.

In treating of the subject which it has pleased this Board to
assign to me, I have little hope of saying anything novel or
striking, and may perhaps make some statements, or advance
some opinions of disputed correctness. The theme is certainly
a most extensive and interesting one, but it is anything but
new or untouched. It might be thought, that I should best
discharge my duty by simply referring at once to some stand-
ard authority ; but this Board have a right to command my
best services, and anything which I may offer will be cheerfully
submitted to their comments and correction. The raising of
fruit trees is a branch of agriculture which engaged the atten-
tion of our Puritan fathers at a very early day, and their pro-
gress therein, was, all things considered, truly surprising. The i
credit of taking the lead in this most pure and refining, as well '
as delightful and profitable, department of industry, is due, if |
to any one, to John Endicott, whose grave was left unmarked

712 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

by any monument, but whose venerable pear tree yet survives
the lapse of seven generations of men, to bear living testimony
to his tasteful and benevolent industry. His example soon
found many followers, and even in the first hundred years of
New England history, all the fruits generally raised in English
gardens, were commonly cultivated here. Our horticulture
received an important accession on the arrival of the French
Huguenots in the early part of the eighteenth century, who
brought with them their national taste for fine fruits, and
introduced several, which yet stand at the head of the list of
our cultivated varieties. From that time to this day the culti-
vation of fruit of all descriptions has been generally extei^ded
throughout our most thickly settled districts, and many of us
can remember the time, when, in our most crowded cities, a
garden of greater or less extent was considered an indispensa-
ble appendage to every tenement of any value.

Horticulture, if a less conspicuous and honored art then,
than now, was by no means a neglected one, and its rapid
advance of late years must certainly be owing, in no small
degree, to the broad foundation which had been effectually
though quietly laid by our predecessors. The advantages
which the community have derived from the unostentatious
labors and instructive writings of such men as Samuel G.
Perkins and Robert Manning, to forbear all mention of the
living, if difficult exactly to define, are not therefore to be less
gratefully appreciated. Nor can I forbear, in this connection,
to notice the recent loss of Mr. Downing, one to whom we
owe the most complete work on American Fruit Trees, if not
the only one, to which that title can fairly be given ;: a gen-
tleman whose extensive research and acute discrimination
rendered him a valuable counsellor to our greatest adepts in
gardening; while his clear and unostentatious common sense
and unafi'ected enthusiam enabled him to render that pursuit
easy and attractive to the most uninstructed. Few in. any
country have done more to promote the comfort and refine-
ment of rural life ; and happy and honored will be any man
who may worthily fill the void left by his deplorable death.

I now proceed to the discharge of the duty specially as-
signed to me, by a few practical remarks on the cultivation of
the apple, although it is obvious that much which may be said

mmrm

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 713

on this, must be equally applicable to other fruit trees, and
indeed to trees generally. In such a document as this, it
appears unnecessary to give either a botanical description, or
a historical account of this well known plant. It has been, as
already intimated, common among us from the very beginning,
and many specimens of apple trees daily strike our eyes, which
cannot well be of much less age than a century. One species
at least is indigenous, but is less remarkable for the size and
flavor of its fruit, than the rich perfume of its blossoms. It has
been but sparingly introduced into our gardens. Our orchards
are mostly made up either of grafted fruit trees, or of natural
plants from their seed. Near our large towns, the rearing of
nurseries of apple trees has become a distinct business, and
plants already grafted or budded, and of sufficient size to be
finally planted out, can easily be procured at a moderate cost.
But many may prefer to rear and graft their own trees, and
this requires only a moderate degree of interesting labor, and
the proprietor is more surely protected against any mistake as
to the kind of fruit, than he can always be in taking his trees
from an extensive nursery.

The rearing of nurseries is, I believe, well and generally un-
derstood. It may be questioned, however, whether the young
trees would not be more vigorous if they were less crowded,
and thus exposed more freely in their early growth to the
action of the sun and air ; in other words, if the nursery were
made, so to speak, an orchard in miniature. Four feet be-
tween the trees, in one direction at least, might not be thought
too great a distance. Many eminent English and French
writers caution us against making the soil of the nursery too
rich, on the ground that when the tree is finally removed, it
may be to a poorer soil and may suffer from the contrast.
But this is denied by other equally high authorities, and it
would surely seem a better rule, to say that we should
treat the tree, as ivell as possible, at all stages of its g-roivth. A
vigorous plant will be likely to bear ill management as well
as to requite good, better than a feebler one. If the tree re-
ceives fair treatment in the orchard, and if it is not to be so
treated it should not be set out there, it can suffer nothing
from its previous good condition.

The best ground for an orchard is said by English writers
90

714 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

to be a hazel loam, of the depth of three feet. Doubtless this
is true, but it is not every one whose land is of this quality, or
who can render it so, without burdensome expense. The
apple, in fact, is far from fastidious, and though in this, as in
most other cases, the deeper the mould the better, yet the tree
will grow well in almost any soil which is not very light and
poor. The best ground seems to be an old grass field which
has been previovisly broken up and cultivated for a year or
two, as there are few better manures for any fruit trees than
the sod itself, when well rotted.

Where the planter has the choice, a hill side seems better
than a level, as affording a fairer exposure to all the trees,
insuring a better drainage, and securing them against the un-
seasonable frosts, which are most apt to seize first on plants
in the low grounds.* It seems to be fully agreed, that before
the trees are set out, the whole field should be stirred to the
depth at least of fifteen or sixteen inches. The most effectual
way of doing this is, unquestionably, by trenching with the
spade. But this cannot be done, even if no manure be dug
in, at a less expense than fifty dollars per acre, a sum which,
in most districts of New England, is much more than the
whole value of the land. Still, this is only to be done once,
and it is far from certain that the expenditure would be un-
profitable.

The same object, however, may be secured to a great extent
by subsoiling, which can be effected at a quarter part of the
cost. The soil below is thus broken up, without being brought
to the surface, and the whole bed of the orchard rendered light
and easy to be penetrated, both sideways and downward, by
the young roots of the trees. It is a question often asked,
whether the ground of an orchard should be tilled, or merely a
circle cleared from grass round the stem of the tree. The lat-
ter course, though little countenanced by writers, is^joften prac-
tised, probably from an unwillingness to sacrifice the hay crop,
and a belief that the circle round the tree, if kept properly
stirred, will afford sufficient room for the growth of the 'roots.

* While any slope seems preferable to a level, a southern one is, I think, less eligi-
ble than either an eastern or northern one. On a southern slope, the trees often
prolong their yearly growth too far into the autumn, and the young wood, in conse-
quence, is less perfectly ripened, and suffers from the subsequent cold.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 715

This, however, is an unsafe supposition, for if the tree be
thrifty, the roots will extend themselves to the limits of the
cleared space long before the farmer is aware of the fact. They
will then meet with a comparatively hard rim, and the tree will
be, so to speak, in the situation of a potted plant. Besides, if
merely a space of a few feet is left round the tree, then, to
keep these spaces well weeded and thoroughly stirred, requires
a degree of vigilance and industry which it is not easy to exer-
cise, and which it is believed is in fact seldom exercised. If
we regard the growth and fruitfulness of the tree as the great
object, there is no doubt that orchards should be kept in tillage,
as long and as thoroughly as it can be done, without injuring
the roots of the trees. This cannot well be for more than ten
or fifteen years, as, after such a period, those roots will have
spread themselves so widely, as to monopolize the whole
ground, although the occasional stirring of the surface by scuff-
ling may even then be highly beneficial. The crops raised
should unquestionably be of those kinds which admit of hoe-
ing, as they exhaust the soil less than what are called white
crops, and as the effects of the great disadvantage of our climate,
drovght, are obviated both by the shade afforded to the earth
by the plants, and by the moisture, which, whatever the cause,
unquestionably follows from the stirring of the soil. A further
important preventive of the dreaded effects of our dry summers,
may be found in mulching the ground, round the foot of the
tree, with moss, leaves, or some other litter, and it would be
easy to mention instances, in which hundreds of young trees
have been saved by this cheap and simple process. It is
scarcely necessary to say that when an orchard is tilled, it
should be generously manured, so that no more of the richness
of the soil may be taken from it, than is restored, and it is
probably equally understood, that unmixed barnyard or other
animal manure should not be allowed to come in actual con-
tact with the bark of the tree. It is time to speak in particular
of the operation of setting out the tree. Preliminary to this
as every one agrees, should be the digging of roomy holes to
receive the plants. Three feet in diameter, and a foot or more
in depth, are the least dimensions which I find recommended*

* It will be observed that I mention this depth as the least which I have seen
recommended. From four to six inches deeper, I should certainly think prefer-
able.

716 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

by any writer. The distance at which the trees should be set,
is a point on which there is some difference of opinion, and a
still greater variety in practice. Forty feet every way is not
too much, and he who adopts this rule, will be surprised to
find in how few years the extreme ends of the branches will
meet. The square is generally preferred I believe to the quin-
cunx, or any other kind of arrangement, as more convenient
for agricultural operations.

The time of year at which trees should be set, is a question
much debated by English and French horticultural writers.
In Europe, the autumn seems to be generally preferred ; and
there is a proverb quoted in the best English works on garden-
ing which runs, " Plant a tree at Michselmas (September 29)
and command it to grow; plant it at Lady-Day (March 25)
and entreat it." This rule is, however, often qualified by good
English and French writers, who state that in heavy or moist
ground, trees are best planted out at the latter period. The
sprhig is certainly preferred in New England. Now when we
consider that our short and capricious spring is the very busiest
portion of the year, and that much of our autumn is a time of
comparative leisure, it is fair to presume that our farmers did
not depart from the habits of their English ancestors without
good reasons. One of these reasons may have been the great
length and rigor of our winters, which leave the tree little chance
of establishing itself in the soil, before the ground is locked up
by the frost. It must be admitted, however, that the practice
of autumnal planting has scarcely had a fair trial, certainly
not in our day.

To the success of planting, however, at any time, there are
two most essential requisites. The first is, that the tree be
properly taken up. By many persons, young fruit trees are
actually torn from the ground, and leave a large part of their
slender rootlets behind them. Now all naturalists agree that
these small fibres are in fact the organs through which the tree
draws the greater part of its nourishment from the soil, while
the main roots are in this respect comparatively inactive ; «and
yet trees are often sold with scarcely a root of less than a
quarter of an inch in thickness. The second requisite is that
the tree be carefully replanted. Many who plant a tree, says
Marshall, seem to think it enough to hide its roots in the
ground ; and we may add that they are often so effectually

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 717

hidden, as to give no indication afterwards of their existence.
It must be obvious that the less the time which elapses be-
tween taking up and replanting, the better; and that'the roots
ought to be kept reasonably moist during the interval. The
tree should be replanted in a bed of rich earth finely pulverized.
This should be moistened ; but the practice of very copious
watering at the time of planting is condemned by Cobbett, and
many other authors, and is of very doubtful expediency. There
is reason to fear that many trees have been injured by a treat-
ment adapted only to aquatic plants. Some writers have sug-
gested the expediency of placing a layer of stones under the
tree, in order to prevent the roots from striking downwards,
and compel them to spread themselves near the surface of the
soil; but I apprehend that the direction of the roots may be
safely left to nature, and that there is no necessity of obstruct-
ing her in her operations. I doubt not, however, that the
stones may have operated beneficially in another way, that is,
by preserving a greater degree of coolness and moisture in the
ground, and thus fortifying the tree against the effects of dry
weather ; but it is very questionable whether they render any
greater benefit on the whole, to the tree, than it would derive
from an equal quantity of good loam.

As to the depth at which trees should be set out in the soil,
there seems to be a general concurrence of opinion that it
should vary little, if any, from that at which they have pre-
viously stood in the nursery ; but as the earth round newly
planted trees is apt to settle, it may be prudent in the first in-
stance to plant them about an inch deeper.

Stakes are sometimes used for the support of young trees •
but if the tree be properly planted, they cannot be necessary,
and may interfere seriously with the roots. If the trees are
well set, they can certainly hold their gi*ound without any arti-
ficial support. The spreading out of the rootlets with great
care is of much greater consequence ; and the time which, to a
careless observer, may seem to be wasted in doing this with
great nicety, will be amply repaid in the end by the vigor and
fruitfulness of the tree.

After the tree is fairly planted, it is supposed by many at
least if we may judge from the appearance of some of our or-
chards, that all the planter's labors are over, and that he has

718 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

only to permit it to grow. Plant a tree, said the Scotch farm-
er to his lazy son, and it will grow while you are sleeping.
We cannot, however, say with equal truth that, if the planter
sleeps all the time, the tree will grow in like manner. Con-
stant vigilance is necessary, especially with respect to young
trees, to secure a regular and well ordered growth, and a
proper degree of exposure to the light and air ; and, more es-
pecially to guard the tree against the withering effects of
drought, and the ravages of disease and insects. It has been
calculated, and I believe correctly, that if the labor which is
required in a single season upon young trees, especially where
the orchard is not kept in tillage, were fairly averaged, it
would not amount to less than one month's labor, of one man,
on each hundred of trees. If the ground is tilled, much of
this labor will be given to the trees incidentally. It will still,
however, be necessary to dig or hoe the ground near the trees,
where the plough cannot safely be driven, and the hoe would
seem to be the better instrument, as less likely to injure the
roots. Care must be taken also, to clear away suckers, and
to prune off all irregular limbs. Less pruning seems necessary
with us than in other countries. There it may be best to
throw open the head of the tree to the light and air, but our
fierce suns and strong winds will penetrate any common mass
of foliage. Little more is requisite than to prevent the limbs
from crossing and chafing each other. Our chief care, how-
ever, is required to protect young trees from drought, disease,
or insects.

Allusion has been already made to the first of these topics.
It is brought home to the farmer's mind in almost every sum-
mer. If we should select any one feature of our climate as
its peculiar characteristic, we should specify our long and
parching droughts. Artificial watering, every one knows, is
out of the question, since one thousand barrels of water would
be requisite to moisten an acre of land as thoroughly as is
done by a shower of a single inch. Two great remedies
against this unavoidable disadvantage, seem, as I have already
said, to be, first, shading the ground at the foot of the trees by
hay, leaves, or some other mulching ; and secondly, and chief-
ly, stirring the surface of the soil. The effects of this last ex-
pedient, when well followed up, (as it very rarely is,) are truly

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 719

astonishing. Whether it brings the moisture up from below,
or down from the atmosphere, or prevents its escape by divid-
ino- and breaking up the soil, and thus rendering it less fit to
conduct the moisture off, are questions of chemistry. The
fact that moisture is in some way produced, is equally certain
and ascertained.

An intelligent farmer in this neighborhood once remarked,
that in putting in his turnip seed, he always followed the rule
of the 2oth of July, wet or dry, and being asked what course
he took if, as often happened, a severe drought prevailed at
that time, he answered that he stirred the land till he raised a
moisture. Our trees seldom suffer from the opposite cause,
excess of dampness, unless standing in absolutely wet land, in
which case thorough draining is the obvious and only remedy.

On diseases, it may be observed as a preliminary remark,
that, with respct to many of them, feeble and infirm trees are
most in danger of being attacked. A healthy and vigorous
plant, like a healthy and vigorous man, escapes their assaults,
and hence the best preservative of a tree is to keep it well
nourished and in good order. This is particularly the case in
regard to the mossy coat which often gathers on the trunks
and boughs of young apple-trees ; for we find such trees, when
thrifty and well cared for, often exhibit a bark as smooth and
shining as it could be rendered by the most careful washing.

Where the moss has once gathered, it can generally be
removed by a solution of strong washing soap, and scraping
the bark.* Should any limbs die, there can be no other course
than to prune them off, taking care to protect the wound ef-
fectually from the weather.

If the trunk is decayed, the removal of the decayed portion,
and the filling in the place with clay, may arrest the evil. It
is not to be supposed, however, that any application can cause
the cavity to be filled up by a new growth from within. This,
Forsyth pretended to do with his famous composition, which
I believe was little else than a mixture of clay and cow ma-
nure. He received several thousand pounds for his secret from

* The moss may be removed more speedily by a solution of potash, but this, if too
strong, may injure or destroy the tree. A wash of one pound to two gallons of water
could, I have no doubt, be safely used. But I found that there was a difference of
opinion in the Board, as to the using of potash at all, and I have therefore forborne to
insert any recommendation to that effect, in the body of the report.

720 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

the English parliament. The slightest knowledge of physiol-
ogy should have taught them, that a tree increases its bulk
entirely by new layers on the outside of the old wood. Hence
when a cavity takes place in the trunk of the tree, it is never
filled up. If, however, the tree be young and vigorous, it is
often grown over, and the tree outside appears as sound as
ever, and in fact may grow and bear fruit for many years after-
wards.

It should, however, be borne in mind that a tree, like every
other living being, has its regular period of life. Many forest
trees are endowed with a longevity which has no parallel short
of antediluvian history. ' There are oaks in this vicinity which
were doubtless stately trees when the first white man set his
foot on our shores. The regular duration of the apple-tree is
much more' limited, and, according to our most accurate in-
vestigations, does not, in ' ordinary cases, exceed the term
assigned to our own race, say seventy or eighty years, i "When
the trees of an orchard, which has been treated with proper
care, decay from age, little can be done to renovate them.
The better course is, to watch against this event in anticipa-
tion, and plant out new orchards in other spots, and thus
secure a succession of thrifty bearers.

Of the various insects which infest the apple-tree, (for almost
every tree has several enemies of this description,) the most
conspicuous in this neighborhood are the borer, the canker-
worm, and the caterpillar. The first of these is described by
Dr. Harris, in his Report, p. 89, It attacks the tree at the
surface of the ground, or a very little way below, and mines
through the trunk, pursuing a slanting course upward. If the
tree is of any considerable size, the insect employs several
years in reaching the opposite side of the tree. The remedy
most commonly suggested is to take him out with a gouge.
This, however, is an ineffectual, or rather over-effectual remedy,
since it not only destroys the insect, but goes far to ruin the
tree. The enemy should be arrested, if possible, at the surface
of the bark, or stopped short before reaching it. I was inform-
ed by the late S. G. Perkins, that these objects could be
effected by examining the trees twice in the year, viz. : in the
middle of the months of June and October, destroying the
insect if found near the bark, and pouring in a small quantity

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 721

of nnleached ashes around the foot of the tree. Some may-
be deterred from this operation, from the mistaken idea of the
time which it might require. In this case, however, as in that
of many other minute gardening operations, the requisite time
is much less than is generally supposed. Mr. Perkins told me
that he examined three hundred quince trees in search of
the borer, (which is precisely the same insect as the apple
borer,) in a single morning ; and the late Mr. Prince states
that, in tilled land, one man could take out the borers from
one hundred apple-trees in the course of a day. It has been
observed that this insect is much less common in clayey than
loamy orchards, probably on account of the greater difficulty
which he finds in working through the stiff clay.

The most dreaded enemy, however, of our apple orchards is
the canker-worm. Wherever he attacks in great force, he
strips the tree entirely of its leaves, and where his ravages are
continued, as they often are, two or three years in succession,
kills the tree itself. He likewise attacks our most magnificent
forest tree, the American elm, and many noble specimens of
this plant in our vicinity have fallen victims to this enemy
within the last ten years. Happily, its ravages are periodical
and not constant, and it appears to travel very slowly from one
district to another. Like the borer, it seems somewhat averse
to a clayey soil. No remedy against this destructive insect
has yet been found which can be pronounced at once effectual
and economical. The great object, as every one knows, is to
prevent the insect, in the autumn or early spring, from ascend-
ing the tree, where it goes up to lay its eggs. The insect has
a strong propensity to climb, and can walk easily over any
surface, unless it be either viscid, (sticky,) or shifting, like
loose sand. It will crawl, for instance, over a chestnut bm-, as
easily as over a chip.

To stop its progress, lead gutters round the trunk of the tree
filled with oil have been recommended with great confidence.
These, however, if made of the usual size of an inch in width,
are quite ineffectual. The insects which first climb are caught
in the oil, and serve as a bridge over which their followers can
walk dryshod. Gutters, to be effectual, should be over two
inches in width, and this would greatly increase the expense,
and if applied to any large number of trees, the amount would
91

722 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

be a serious matter. Besides, in any case, the oil is almost
certain to be driven out by wind or rain against the bark of
the tree, and the tree in consequence is seriously injured.
Tarring on the bark itself is still more objectionable. If the
tar is applied on strips of canvas, which are fastened round the
body of the tree, there is still danger that the tar may run down
upon the bark. Besides, the tar is soon hardened by the sun
or chilled by rain, and the insect then passes over it with ease.

The best expedient with which I am acquainted, is that era-
ployed in Europe, against an insect resembling our canker-
worm, though apparently not so notorious. It is mentioned
by KoUar, and called by him a wooden boot, I suppose for no
other reason than because it is placed round the foot of the
tree. It is, in fact, a box, without top or bottom, and with
sides of about a foot high, furnished with a border at the top,
on the outside, like the eaves of a house. The tar is put on
under the border, and being thus protected from the sun and
the weather, remains liquid for a long time. Care must still
be taken to renew it occasionally. Some insects may rise be-
tween the boot and the tree, but these will be few, if any, as
the propensity of these insects is to climb over the obstacles
which they find in their path, and not to mine beneath them,
and most of them rise from the ground at a little distance from
the very trunk of the tree. For a tree not exceeding twelve
inches in diameter, a boot will cost not exceeding sixteen or
eighteen cents, and if taken off and replaced at the proper
seasons these boots will last for years.

The history of the insect may be briefly given as follows.
The male, which is a small miller, and the female, a grub with-
out wings, climb the tree in the autumn, or early in the spring,
and the female deposits her eggs on the branches of the tree.
These eggs are hatched in the spring, about the time of the
appearance of the young foliage. The young worm issues
forth and preys on the leaves for about Your weeks, turning
this short period to (for himself) the very best account. He
then descends into the ground, and about the first of Ju'ly the
insect has disappeared for the summer, to issue forth again in
his perfect state, after the first hard frost, or from that period till
early spring. Dr. Harris states, that in mild winters he has
seen them issue forth in every month from October till March.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 723

A mode of destroying the chrysalis while in the ground, by
wholesale, has been suggested by Dr. Harris, and that is to
turn pigs into the orchard, who can detect the insect by their
remarkably keen scent, and will devour him greedily. The
trees, if young, must be protected from the swine by some
cheap barrier. This expedient seems likely to be quite an ef-
fective, and not expensive one, and well deserves a careful
trial. The benefit in other ways to the soil, by the stirring
and nourishment which it must thus receive, cannot be incon-
siderable.

The caterpillar is an insect less voracious, perhaps, than the
canker-worm, and at any rate far more within our control.
So completely, indeed, is this the case, that a caterpillar's web
in an apple-tree is a sure signal of negligence in the proprietor.
Various ways of destroying these insects are in use. The first
is to destroy the eggs in the autumn and winter. The eggs of
this insect are laid round the small branches in masses of
about the size of a date stone, and covered with a shining var-
nish, which protects them from the cold, but at the same time
renders them more conspicuous. No one who has once seen
these curious collections can ever mistake them. In the spring
the heat of the sun at once melts the varnish, and hatches the
egg, and the caterpillars begin to spin their webs, and to go
forth and prey on the leaves. They always, however, keep up
a connection with their nests, and return to them at night, and
do not sally forth again till the dew is dried in the morning.
There are various ways of checking their ravages. The little
collections of eggs may be picked off" in autumn and winter.
On young trees this method is often very effectual, as many of
these little packages may be detected by their glittering sur-
face. Two dozen of them have been collected in the course of
an hour, and this is by far the neatest and most agreeable
mode of getting rid of the evil. But as many eggs may escape
notice, and many more be out of reach, it will be necessary to
examine the tree after the insects have formed their nests in
the spring. As the insects are always at home early in the
morning, the nests may be pulled off" and crushed by the hand.
This is a disagreeable operation even to the sturdiest farmer,
but where the nests can be reached it is thoroughly effectual.
Where the nests are out of the reach of the farmer's hand,

724 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

they may be destroyed by a circular brush, of about an inch in
diameter, with a long handle, and this, if applied every few
days, will fully answer the purpose.

When the fruit of the tree is ripened, no other attention is
necessary than to gather it with due care. The apple bears
its fruit on spurs, which continue to bear several years in suc-
cession, and if these spurs are injured by careless or hasty
gathering, the fruit of following years is lost.

It will be perceived that I have left untouched many import-
ant points in relation to the culture of apple-trees. I have
said nothing, for instance, in regard to those varieties of apple^
which are best raised in our orchards. There are so many of
these varieties that the bare enumeration of them, without one
word of comment, would occupy several pages. I shall mere-
ly remark that the three kinds most generally raised in this
vicinity, are the Rhode Island Greening, the Baldwin, and the
Roxbury Russet, all natives of New England, and of well es-
tablished reputation. The finest of all apples, in general
estimation, the Newark Pippin, cannot be cultivated to any
advantage in our climate, and requires a more southern at-
mosphere, growing to great size and beauty in Virginia. I
pass over, also, entirely, the subject of grafting, and have said
scarcely anything on that of manuring. But, notwithstand-
ing these omissions, and many others doubtless of equal im-
portance, I have extended this report much beyond my
expectations. It was no part of my design to write a
complete treatise, but merely to offer a few hints on those
topics, which have suggested themselves most prominently to
my own mind. Respecting many of these there may be dif-
ferences of opinion. One fact, however, should be borne in
mind, that of two proposed ways of proceeding in agriculture,
both may be good, though not equally so. Happily for us,
agricultural operations are not like the delicate operations of
surgery, which there is only one safe way df performing^ and
in which the slightest deviation may produce disastrous or
fatal consequences. "When we say, for instance, that 'the
spring, on the whole, is the best period for setting out trees in
our climate, or that young orchards should be kept in tillage,
we are far from asserting that no orchards which may be other-
wise managed can grow or thrive. But though there may be

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 725

more than one safe way of proceeding, there is probably only
one best way, and what that is may well be a subject of fre-
quent and earnest, though, it is to be hoped, in all cases, of
fair and good-humored controversy. When we consider the
adaptation of the apple-tree to the climate of all the States
lying north of the Carolinas, the variety of soils and situations
in which it will flourish, and the many ways in which its fruit
may be used as an agreeable and nourishing article of food,
we may pronounce this tree to be of more importance to our
country than all other fruit trees united ; and the beauty of
a thrifty orchard in full bearing, striking as it is to the most
careless observer, must be deemed by far the least of its recom-
mendations.

January 12, 1853.

726 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

NEAT CATTLE.

^ BY SETH SPRAGUE.

'^^ The small reward the farmers of Massachusetts obtain for
their labor, and the lack of due return for the capital invested
in the business of farming, is a source of much discontent
among those employed in agriculture, and calls for all possible
improvement in every department.

Hitherto our attention has mainly been directed to improved
modes of culture, with little attention to the cattle best suited
to our condition. A few enterprising individuals have, for a
number of years, been importing pure blood cattle. The Mas-
sachusetts Agricultural Society, for many years, has employed
its funds to improve the cattle of our State, and with a liberal
hand has distributed gratuitously her importations of the best
bloods of Great Britain. Our farmers have not been success-
ful with them, and have been unwilling to give them a fair
trial. Little progress has been made in their general introduc-
tion. It is a common remark among farmers esteemed for
their experience and intelligence, that " there are as good cattle
among our natives as can be found anywhere." Without dis-
puting the fact that we have some good native cattle, and
some superior cows, it must be acknowledged that we have a
great many poor cattle. Among the few well-built, fine-limbed,
thrifty, good-feeding cattle, we have thousands narrow-chested,
ill-formed, or deficient in some essential point, and such as
nature forbids giving us good returns for the food consumed.
It would be strange if it were otherwise. The course pursued
since the first settlement of the country, has been directly cal-
culated to deteriorate and run down the best cattle the world
ever produced. The breeding of cattle has been reduced to a
science in Great Britain. They produce cattle that do not
vaary in color and form, with as much certainty as any effect
follows cause.

We have no distinct breed of cattle — none on whom we
can rely to produce offspring like sire or dam. The famous
cows that have happened among us have failed to leave any
progeny like themselves, or that sustained their reputation.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 727

Our native catlle have been bred promiscuously together for
more than two hundred years, without the least attention to
sire or dam. We have a motley race, of every form, color,
and size.

Without attention to the laws of breeding, we can never
have cattle that give proper return for our care and food. The
prevailing practice of selling our calves to the butchers at four
weeks old, and replenishing our stock from the droves from
Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, must tend to per-
petuate, to coming time, our degenerate race. There are few
cattle raised in the eastern part of the State, and such is the
indifference on the subject, that few, even of those who con-
template raising a calf, would be at the trouble of sending a
cow a few miles to the best blood bull, if they could get a calf
near by, from an ill-formed male, the meanest of his race.

Our cattle bear a much larger relation to the profits of the
farmer than we are generally aware of. The capital invested
for the feeding and accommodation of our cattle cannot be
estimated at less than three-fourths of the whole cost of our
farms. If we estimate the value of the labor bestowed in
producing a winter stock of food for them, and the time we
spend in feeding and. caring for them in summer and winter, a
less portion than three-fourths would not accomplish that part
of a farmer's work. We therefore see at a glance that much
may depend on the quality of our cattle in making up our
year's accounts. The greatest object of the farmer is to have
those cattle that best serve his interest in beef and milk.

The disposition to use horses, and the general practice of
devoting the oxen of last year to the shambles, and buying
from the droves in autumn, renders the working quality of /
oxen of less consequence.

The average life of our neat cattle does not exceed five
years. A large part of those raised, especially steers, go to
the butcher at two and three years old, and those that escape
the knife seldom exceed seven. Our cows are turned oft' to
fat, for various causes, at all ages. It seems evident that the
great object of the farmer should be to obtain cattle that
mature early, and lay on the most flesh for the food consumed.
The difference in the value of cattle that are as mature at two

728 MASS. EOAUD OF AGEICULTURE.

or three years old as others are at three or four, is so obvious
\ as not to require a moment's consideration.

The agriculturists in various parts of Great Britain, for
near a hundred years, have been endeavoring to improve their
neat stock. The Devons, the Durhams, and the Ayrshires, all
have their admirers, each having, in their own estimation,
arrived at the greatest perfection. Early maturity has been a
prime object Avith them ; increase of weight without material
increase of size — a long, round body — small head, heavy quar-
ters, and small offal. The strict and unvaried practice so long
persevered in, of breeding only from the best specimens of the
same stock, and their more especial attention to the character
of their males, has produced a purity of blood that produce
offsprings of like form and general character. Even at the
present day, after nearly a hundred years' careful attention to
their rules, they still follow them with the same scrupulous
attention.

It is often asked — " Why not breed from our native cattle,
for those long bred on the soil are better than those brought
from a distance." That a superior breed of cattle may be
raised up from our native stock, we cannot doubt ; but no one
has yet been willing to try the experiment and wait twenty
years for proof of the result. It is not so easy a matter to
raise up a new^ and improved breed of cattle as many suppose.
The first cross may and often does produce a better animal,
but the progeny of such frequently fail. It requires a critical
knowledge of the laws of breeding, sound judgment and much
experience, to improve a mixed poor race of animals ; whilst
eVery farmer may be sure of good animals if bred from pure
blood, and by attention to a few simple rules his stock will
always be growing better.

Our situation is so unlike that of Great Britain, that in
many things it is impracticable for us to pursue the same sys-
tem they do. In that country land is dear' and labor is cheap ;
the climate is cool and damp. With us land is cheap and
labor is dear; our summers are hot and dry, and the cold
extreme in winter. Their farms are large, with large herds of
cattle. Ours are small, with few cattle. They do everything
upon a large scale and with a view to the future. We work

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 729

on a small scale and look for immediate returns. They have
more system and a superior knowledge of the science of agri-
culture and the laws of breeding.

But it may be doubted whether any English farmer, how-
ever skilful, would succeed on the best farm in New England.
But principles are the same ; the laws of nature, whether ap-
plied to the cultivation of the earth or the raising of animals,
are the same everywhere.

It is for us to know how to apply them to our circumstances.
It is true that in determining the kind of cattle suited to a
farm, regard should be had to the soil, climate, and general
mode of feeding. That it is most profitable to the farmer to
have them rather under than over the produce of his land ;
that the cattle of the valleys and rich pastures are invariably
larger and better than those bred and kept on the hills with
short feed ; this holds good in all countries. Cattle of the
same blood will be smaller or larger, as they are bred on high,
thin, or deep, rich soil. The natural consequence of poor feed
and neglect of animals, is to deteriorate them. They lose their
disposition to take flesh and become flat-sided and of feeble
constitution.

We cannot expect that cattle brought from a cool, moist
climate like that of England, where they get a full supply of
green food seven or eight months, and a liberal supply of roots
in winter, should carry the same heavy coat of flesh, or in any
way sustain the same superiority in our hot, dry climate,
where they are less liberally fed. Our cultivation is improving.
We feed our cattle better than our fathers did, and as we pro-
gress (as progress we shall) we shall have the means of s&s-
taining a larger and more profitable class of animals than at
present.

We cannot, however, but think that either of the pure breeds
of Great Britain would be an improvement upon our present
degenerate race. If they consume more food, which many of
them do not, they will give a better return for the food con-
sumed. When animals are bred for the carcass merely, and
become fat at an early age, they not only return sooner the
price of their food, but in general a greater value for the food,
than slow feeding animals. The great desideratum is a race
of cattle that combine the best qualities for flesh and milk-
92

730 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

The Ayrshires have the reputation of being the best milkers
of any of the British cattle, and they have generally sustained
that character in this country when fairly proved. The great-
est objection to them is their short teats, which makes it diffi-
cult to draw their milk with ease and dispatch. They are
good feeders and take flesh well. The Durhams have all the
desired qualities for a profitable stock, except for milk. They
have been bred more with a view to the shambles ; some of
them, however, have proved extra good milkers, but the trial
of them in our vicinity has not been satisfactory.

It is thought by many that a disposition to fatten is incom-
patible with a disposition to secrete milk. The fact that good
milkers are generally thin of flesh, and that some cows fail in
their milk when highly fed on rich, dry, fattening food, is not
conclusive. This never takes place when fed on grass, how-
ever luxuriant.

We should naturally conclude that animals that convert the
greater part of their food into nourishment for the body, may
also be so bred as to secrete proportionately a greater quantity
of milk.

The North Devon cattle are perhaps the purest bloods
known, being an improved stock upon the native race, which
has never been crossed. They are esteemed for their fine pro-
portions and beautiful deep red color. They excel for the yoke,
but are not esteemed as milkers.

The Herefords mature early and fatten well. The oxen are
large and good for work, but the cows are poor milkers.

A race is being introduced from the Island of Jersey, in the
English Channel, by enterprising individuals, and also by the
Massachusetts Agricultural Society, which may accomplish an
object long sought for, but not yet found to general satisfaction
— a blood stock of good milkers.

The Jersey cows are famous for giving rich milk, which
yields more butter than that of any other cow. Seven quarts
of milk, it is said, has made a pound of butter. Some indi-
viduals ill this country have made fourteen pounds of butter a
week, for many weeks in succession. A breed of cows that
will give the quantity of milk ascribed to them, would seem to
be of inestimable value. All who have attempted to give
their character, agree in the quality of their milk. They do

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 731

not all ascribe to them a large quantity. Foreign writers
represent them as of small size, bad form, narrow-chested, big-
bellied, and of feeble constitution. Their appearance does not
give them a better character in the eye of our most experienced
breeders. We cannot recommend them for general purposes
until their real merits have been better tested. They will,
however, be sought for by amateur and gentlemen farmers,
who are able to sacrifice economy for rich milk, thick cream,
and high flavored, golden hued butter.

The feeding and rearing of cattle is a subject requiring stu-
dious attention. We know little of the relative value of the
various kinds of food adapted to the animal economy. We
rely mainly on grass, and fatten few in the stall. We have in
our country few well-tried experiments on record. We form
vague conjectures, and consequently make many mistakes.

In our winter feeding we are apt to let our cattle lose flesh,
and rely on summer pasturage to restore them. By so doing
we suffer a greater loss than many are aware of. Animals in
good flesh in spring are better for any purpose. Young cattle,
that have been kept in a growing condition through the winter,
will not need a whole month's feed on grass to give them a
start, but they will grow on more vigorously. Our oxen will
do more work, and are more cheaply fitted for the shambles.
Our cows will bear their testimony by the manner in which they
fill the pail. All will tell the story in autumn, especially such
as go to the scales of the butcher.

It will be of little use for us to discuss the subject of raising
our own cattle. Whenever we are convinced that we can
make more money by good animals than by poor ones, we
shall take measures to possess them. The progress may be
slow, but it is sure. Whatever may be the conviction of the
public mind, the fact will remain, that well-bred animals are the
best and most profitable in all places, on rich land and poor
land.

The subject is copious, and I can treat it only in the most
summary manner. It requires an abler hand fully to illustrate
and do it justice.

SETH SPRAGUE.

DuxBURY, December, 1852.

732 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

CULTURE OF VEGETABLES AS FARM
PRODUCTS.

BY JOHN W. PROCTOR.

Grass, grain and vegetables, are the principal products of the
farms of Massachusetts. Subdivided as they are, into parcels,
generally not exceeding one hundred acres of cultivable
lands, our attention will be directed to the inquiry, how can
these lands be cultivated to best advantage ? How shall the
farmer keep his lands, that they may keep him? Or what
mode of culture will insure the best income, leaving the
grounds in a condition not impaired by the crop?

My purpose is, to bring together such facts in relation to the
culture of vegetables, as have come within my own observa-
tion ; — chiefly in the county of Essex ; and not to attempt a
complete discussion of the subject.

Carrots, beets and turnips, are grown mainly for the feed of
stock ; — cabbages, onions and potatoes for the supply of the
market. Carrots have been cultivated of late, with much favor
and success. The short or horned carrot, and the deep rooted
yellow carrot, are the varieties mostly raised ; — depending
somewhat on the depth and condition of the soil. Where the
soil has been stirred to the depth of eighteen inches or more, it
is not uncommon for these plants to descend to this depth.
The average yield of carrots, on land well prepared and liber-
ally manured, may be estimated at 15 tons, or 600 bushels, to
the acre. We have known 20, 24, 32 and even 36 tons to the
acre. More than this we have not seen. Though, the present
season, we have seen a statement of an estimated crop of 1,800
bushels to the acre, in Berkshire. On inquiry as to the mode
of measurement adopted, it was not deemed satisfactory. It
savored too much of Yankee guesses.

As food for horses, milch cows, &c., carrots are valued at
about half the price of English hay; — worth most, when 'used
in connection with other feed. We are not unmindful that
various opinions are entertained of the value of carrots ; our
purpose is to express such opinion as we have been able to
form, after much inquiry, of those most experienced in their use,

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 733

and best competent to judge. Prof. Mapes says, " The carrot
is the most valuable of vegetables for the feeding of horses and
milch cows." Mr. Quincy, in a paper on root culture, Agr.
Rep. vol. IV. p. 212, says : " Among vegetables, the carrot com-
bines more advantages than any other, considering the quantity
and quality of its produce, and the effect of its cultivation, in
deepening, cleaning and ameliorating the ground, and in mak-
ing the best preparation for subsequent crops."

Carrots require a strong soil, deep and thorough cultivation,
and liberal manuring. An abundant crop may not be ex-
pected, without much labor in the preparation of the land.
The soil must be deeply stirred, finely pulverized, and the ma-
nure must be thoroughly intermingled with the soil, and not
left here and there in bunches. The subsoiling process should
never be required of the plants. Deep stirring of the soil is
found a remedy against too much as well as too little moist-
ure. The principles involved in the subsoiling process need
only to be better understood to insure its being more practised,
especially where vegetables are to be grown. The late Mr.
Phinney, of Lexington, than whom we have had few more in-
telligent observers of culture, said, " no man should presume
to farm, without subsoiling."

When the ground is properly prepared, the seed of the carrot
is usually distributed, the last of May or early in June, in rows
from 14 to 18 inches apart. When fairly started — for at first
the plants are extremely tender — it is well to thin them, so as
to leave four or five inches space between. This will give an
opportunity to expand, and fill the rows, at the close of their
growth. Nothing is lost by this thinning process ; large car-
rots are better than small ones. After carrots have been twice
wed, their leaves spread, so that weeds have little opportunity
to vegetate. The carrot is exposed to less casualties than most
other vegetables. It is not often destroyed by insects. When it
gets fairly under way, its growth is as certain as any other crop.

Different opinions are entertained as to the expediency of
continuing to grow carrots, year after year, on the same
ground. An early impression, taken from my father, himself
an observing cultivator, was, that they would not do well more
than two years successively. I have known them do well for
three years, and have been informed by Col. Lincoln, of Wor-

734 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

cester, an intelligent observer, that he has known carrots
grow well seven years successively. Most other crops do well
after carrots, especially onions. It is a general practise, by
best cultivators, to prepare the land for onions, by one or two
crops of carrots. I say prepare for onions, because there is no
crop that yields so good a return, for the labor applied, as the
onion — the net proceeds to the acre often being more than one
hundred dollars.

Upon the carrot there sometimes appears a blight or rust,
tm-ning the tops yellov^- before the roots are fully grown. The
cause thereof I do not understand.

The venerable Timothy Pickering, first president of the
Essex Society, says, in speaking of the culture of the carrot:
" Even these plants, so long after they vegetate extremely
small, were formerly sown broadcast. But this awkward
practise has generally given way to the row culture." " I
think," says he, " a preferable mode would be, to sow the seeds
in double rows, about ten inches apart, with intervals of about
three feet between the double rows." (See his Address to the
Essex Society, 1820, for much valuable instruction on Root
Culture.) It vnll be well to look back and see what Pickering,
Lowell and Quincy said, forty years ago, and endeavor to im-
prove upon their instructions. They brought clear heads, fair
minds and strong arms to the work.

Mr. Coleman, in his Second Report of the Agriculture of
Massachusetts, speaks highly of the culture of the carrot.
Upon authorities cited, he estimates that an acre of carrots
will furnish food for working horses, equal to sixteen acres of
oats. K this be so, where land has any value in it, it would
seem to be labor misapplied and land wasted, to raise oats
for horses in preference to carrots. Certainly, as many tons of
carrots should be raised as of oats ; and most persons would
think, twice as many. I know that Mr. C. sometimes permit-
ted his credulity to run away with his judgment, but not so as
essentially to impair his authority.

In Bristol, R. I., I am informed, that carrots are grown on
the same ground v^dth the onion, in alternate rows, the carrots
being sown after the first weeding of the onions ; and that fair
crops of both are thus raised. This may do where the land is
quite clear of weeds ; but I think will not do on ordinary land.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 735

I have known fair fields of onions to be nearly destroyed by
starting the weeds between the rows, after they had been suf-
fered to remain, in the busy season of haying, one iveek too
long. Any disturbance of the delicate fibres of these plants
has a most injurious effect upon their growth. So, I think,
would be the crowding of carrots too near. It not unfrequcntly
happens, that much is lost by grasping at too much.

In Loudon's Encyclopcedia of Agriculture the carrot is said
to be a native of Britain, growing in its wild state, in chalky
or sandy soils, and often in waste lands, and by the road sides.
Thus grown, the root is small, dry, woody, and of a light, pale
color ; but when cultivated on good soil, it becomes large, suc-
culent, of a rich yellow or straw color ; so unlike the original,
as scarcely to be recognized as of the same family.

TURNIPS.

The turnip, with many, is the " crop of crops," " the one
thing needful on the farm." Such, if I do not mistake, was
the doctrine taught by the eminent farmer of Marshfield, on
his return from the view of culture in England ; and he illusr
trated his faith by his works, as every one who ever viewed
his broad acres, in the autumn, will be able to bear testimony.

In the English books the turnip culture is spoken of as "the
sheet anchor" of light soil cultivation, and the basis of the
alternate system of English husbandry, to which every class
of the community is so much indebted." IVIr. N. Biddle (in
an address to the Philadelphia Society, 1842) says : " Although
our frosts interfere with the English plan of feeding turnips
from the ground during winter, still there can be no question
that great advantages may be derived, by our farmers, from
the cultivation of the turnip, to be laid up as green and succu-
lent food for stock, to be used conjointly with hay and other
kinds of provender." Had Mr. Webster's opinion of the value
of the turnip crop been drawn from facts observed in his own
fields, or in his own stable, I should value it more highly than
when founded- on English husbandry. A slight variance in
the component elements of the soil, or subsoil, or in the atmos-
phere that hovers over them, may essentially vary the result.
Turnips can be grown at much less expense than either of the
other crops — only about one-third — ^if the estimate of Mr.

736 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Brewer, the member of this Board from Hampden, is well
founded. It therefore becomes material to ascertain their
comparative value as feed for stock. That they can be advan-
tageously used, in connection with hay and other feed, there
is no doubt. The Swedish turnip, ruta-bag-a, as it is called, is
the variety that finds most favor. The common round turnip
is often grown, yielding six or seven hundred bushels to the
acre, planted as late as July, after a crop of grass has been
taken from the land. No easier provision can be made to
meet the wants arising from a short crop of hay. Unless, as
in the present season, the mildness of the first half of winter
shall atone for the deficiency of the crop of the preceding
summer.

BEETS.

The beet, in its several varieties, is much praised, and often
recommended as worthy of cultivation. I have known in
Newbury fine crops of 1,500 bushels, or thirty tons to the acre.
Notwithstanding the abundance of the crop and the admitted
nutritive and palatable qualities of the plant, I have rarely
known its cultivation continued for many years. Those who
have grown beets a few years narrow the limits of their culti-
vation. Accurate experiments, continued for a series of weeks,
have demonstrated that cattle fed on beets gain twice as much
as when fed on the same quantity of turnips, and more than
when fed on carrots. Hence, the inference would be in favor
of the beet. But there may be some other consideration to
counterbalance this inference. The beet is a great exhauster
of the soil, and does not grow well several years sucessively
on the same soil. It is a poor preparative for any other crop.
I have often heard, as a reason assigned for an indifferent crop,
that beets were grown on the land the year preceding. No
grower of onions, for instance, would presume to plant after
beets, until some regenerating process "had been applied,
such as a green crop of oats turned in, in the autumn, or a
crop of corn or potatoes, with a liberal dressing of manure.
Perhaps this exhausting of the nutritive elements of the soil
explains in part why beets are so rarely cultivated to any con-
siderable extent as food for stock.

Some have thought that a valuable supply of green food for

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 737

milch cows can be obtained from the superabundant leaves of
the beet, at a season of the year when the often prevailing
droughts render such a supply most desirable. Such I remem-
ber to have been the opinion of Mr. Pickering, whose judg-
ment it is hardly safe to question, when based on his own
observations. That such a supply can be gathered, when the
growth of the plants is luxuriant, there can be no question ;
but that the leaves can be plucked, without detriment to the
vegetable, is by no means certain. Nature seldom makes a
mistake in her design, or arrays a plant with more leaves than
are necessary to perfect its growth. Instance, in the opinion
of many, the cutting off the stalks of Indian corn, materially
impairs the substance of the crop. Better let it all remain,
say they, until the harvest.

In regard to the growing of all vegetables, those cultivators
succeed best, who give most attention to the pulverisiation of
the soil, and the subdivision of the manures, and the careful
intermingling of the manure with the soil. I have often wit-
nessed the cultivation, by the gardeners of Marblehead, of
Beverly, and of Danvers, who grow crops equal to any others,
and think their superior crops are mainly to be attributed to
the operations above specified. " Seeds of all kinds should be
sown as soon as possible after the ground is prepared to re-
ceive them, and before the moisture of the fresh-stirred earth
is dissipated by the sun and winds ; otherwise, many will
never vegetate, or not until after a fall of rain ; and the conse-
quence will be, loss of time and an uneven crop." (See Ad-
dress of Mr. Pickering, before referred to.)

CABBAGES.

There is no vegetable from which so bountiful a return may
be expected as the cabbage. I have so often told the story of
18,000 head raised by Mr. Mason, of Beverly, on two and a
half acres, and seen such an expression of incredulity awakened
thereby, that I hesitated about mentioning it again, until I
heard Prof. Mapes state that he had raised on his own farm
the last season, 73,000 head of cabbages on six acres, being
more than 12,000 to the acre. The only difference between
Mason's and Mapes' cabbages, as the story was told, was, one
sold them for 6^- cents, and the other for 3|- cents, a head. I
93

738 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

admit that I was astonished by the number raised by the Pro-
fessor. I remember to have heard the late E. H. Derby say
there was no crop that could be so advantageously grown for
the feeding of stock, as cabbage. This he said after many
years' experience on his extensive farm in Salem. The best
approved method, as far as I know, of raising cabbages, is that
practised by Mr. Mason. He turns over the sward, to the
depth of eight or nine inches ; applies a liberal coating of well
fined compost, made in his barnyard, from material collected
on the beach, intermingled with the other materials there
gathered ; harrows the land until the manure is completely im-
bedded in the soil ; furrows at such a distance as will admit a
cultivator to pass between the rows ; plants the seed in hills
about one foot apart ; when the plants are fairly started, thins
them out, leaving only the most vigorous one in the hill; and
subsequently keeps the ground well stirred and free of weeds ;
always resisting the first beginnings of the worms. In this
way he secures a crop with heads as uniform as so many peas.
Such culture I have repeatedly witnessed, and know there is
no fiction about it. The fertilizing properties disengaged by
the decomposition of the verdure, overlaid by the inverted fur-
rows, keeps the plants in healthy condition through the
droughts of August and September, and the rich coating of
manure applied gives vigor and health to the whole plant. I
have never seen a handsomer growth of vegetables than
Mason's fields of cabbage.

ONIONS.

No story of Essex vegetable culture will be complete that
does not embrace the onion. This was so fully treated in an
essay on this subject in 1845, (see Essex Transactions,) then
extensively circulated, that I can do little more than reaffirm
what was then said. Scarcely anything new in relation to
this culture has come to my knowledge, excepting new and
multiplied devastations of insects. Every year brings these to
view, and through their agency the fond hopes of the laborer
are often disappointed. Still, as a whole, there is no crop that
pays so well as the onion ; often yielding a clear profit of
more than one hundred dollars to the acre, after deducting all
incidentals. The present year our grounds have yielded four,

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 739

five, six, seven, and even eight hundred bushels to the acre.
The best crop that came to my knowledge, grew on the farm of
Dr. Andrew Nichols, in Middleton, on a light soil, with mod-
erate manuring, yielding 355 bushels upon 70 rods.

I ought not to omit, that Mr. Ephraim Brown, of Marblehead,
stated to me that he raised, the present season, six hundred
bushels on half an acre. I know Mr. B.'s land to be first rate,
and that he spreads his manure with a liberal hand. Such a
crop pays well for doing this, at 40 cents the bushel, the price
for which they were sold in Boston market.

POTATOES.

When I commenced this essay, my purpose was to speak of
the culture of the potato, and the casualties to which it is ex-
posed, it being the vegetable on which the human family are
more dependant for sustenance than all others ; the sudden
annihilation of which would unavoidably create distress ir-
remediable. But the mystery that overhangs the subject ; the
numerous abortive explanations that have been attempted, and
the impossibility of condensing anything of value within the
compass of an essay, have deterred me from the undertaking.
Judging from the experience of the last year, there is a prob-
ability that the potato may get well of itself, without the aid
of the doctor ; and that the Commonwealth will be relieved of
anxiety, and of the payment of the bounty offered.*

* I have recently met " Remarks on the Potato Plant," presented to the Kilkenny
Literary Scientific Institution, Ireland, which contains better sense on the subject than
I have before seen. The writer discards entirely the insect and the atmospheric causes
of decay or disease, and finds a reason therefor in the natural history of the plant ; in
the fact, that it has its limited period of vivification, fructification, and decay; — which
he estimates about thirty-four years — divided into periods of five, nineteen, and ten,
from the seed of the potato ball. He relies entirely upon the cultivation from the seed,
and not from the tuber, to maintain the recuperative energies of the plant. I have
before heard the same idea advanced by Gen. Caleb Gushing, whose penetrating mind
looks into subjects as far as any other man, and am inclined to believe the keystone
of the mystery will be found on this track. Nothing short of a series of observations
for twenty years or more, can fully test this theory ; but any man who will do this,
in this period, will raise a monument of fame more durable than brass, and have the
consolation that he will ever be remembered as the benefactor of the human race.

740 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

SUBSOIL PLOUGHING AND THOROUGH
DRAINING.

BY B. V. FRENCH.

A complete adaptation of the soil to terra-culture is the first
consideration which should occupy the cultivator. The depths
to which many of the roots of cereal grains, grasses, tapped
rooted vegetables, vines, shrubs, and trees descend, is much
greater than is generally imagined ; no fixed point has been
agreed upon with regard to their descent.

To form some estimation of the great depth to which roots
of vegetables descend, the required plants should be planted on
a line, in a soil prepared for the purpose, and when fully grown
a trench should be opened on the side of the line of vegetables,
to the depth of four or five feet, and by applying a stream of
water from a garden engine on the side of the trench, the roots
may be laid bare, and with a microscope, the small roots (which
would not be visible to the naked eye) can be readily seen.

The writer, to secure a glacis, composed of fine black loam
and sand, planted the Lucerne clover. This was done in
June. In October, a root was pulled up which measured thirty
inches in length, and much of it, no doubt, was left in the
ground, the soil being adapted to the growth of its deep tap
roots. For twenty years that clover has flourished, and has
been mowed for soiling cattle three and four times a year. This
clover was planted in 1824, and some of it is still alive. In a
garden composed of an alluvial soil, parsnips were taken up
fom- feet in length. In alluvial or drift soils, on the sea-coast,
composed principally of sharp sand, but well fertilized, the
finest vegetables have been grown ; and pears, on quince
bottoms, have produced some of our largest and finest speci-
mens of fruit. In a garden, trenched to the depth of five feet,
the Dearborn pear has been grown so large as not to be refcog-
nized but by its peculiar mark.

But deep ploughing, or trenching, is not all that is required.
It has been found that the deeper the ground is trenched, the
more surface or spring water it wiU hold ; this was partly

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 74l

remedied by Elkington and Anderson's practice, of finding the
spring and tapping it by a drain ; but there was still a
thoroughness wanted. The gardener, before he strikes a cut-
ting, lays a drain in the bottom of the pot, and when he con-
structs a grape border, he may be found laying his drains, on
which are placed faggots and turf, and on these a prepared
soil for the fine, tender roots of the grape. But the farmer may
inquire. Will this pay ? Let him try a small space, and judge
for himself. He may inquire. How can this work best be ac-
complished ? We must answer to this inquiry, that we know
of no better way than the one so generally practised in Eng-
land and Scotland, and now coming fast into practice in this
country, known as Deonotonizing. This is done, first, by laying
drains with tile, which can be procured from Mr. A. S. Babcock,
Albany ; an article cheaper than stone, even if near at hand.
These drains should be laid from two and a half to four feet
deep, and about twenty feet distance one from another, follow-
ing his directions in the laying; after this work is done, plough
crosswise of these drains, leaving an open furrow ten or twelve
inches deep. In the open furrow let your subsoil plough follow
to the depth of at least twenty inches from the surface of the
ground. When the sod has decayed, cross-plough the subsoil-
ing, so as to bring up about two inches of the subsoil, and at
every cross-ploughing continue to deepen the soil until the
subsoil has been brought to the light and air from its greatest
depth. This soil, which was once but eight inches, is now
twenty inches deep, freely and fully disintegrated, and fit for
vegetables, grasses, or orcharding.

But where high garden tillage is required, a trench four feet
wide and three to five feet deep should be opened; if a springy
and cold soil, inclined to clay, one inch of sand may be put on
the bottom, and draining tile, three inches in diameter, placed
so as to conduct the water oif from the soil ; if a stiff one, it
should be mixed with sand, as the trench is filled, by digging
another. When the work is done, the earth thrown out of the
first trench should be put in the last open trench, and if the
work has been weU done the garden will be well drained, and
the soil so divided and mixed, that anything, to be desired in
open culture, with a suitable dressing of fertilizing matter laid
near the surface, will be sure to flourish.

742 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

However well the soil may be tilled with the old practice, it
can be much better done, and with certainty of a better in-
demnity for all reasonable outlays, by thorough draining and
disintegration of the soil, either by the plough or spade, and
the deeper the trenching, to the depth of five feet, and the
more thorough the draining, the more gratifying and compen-
sating will be the result to the tiller.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 743

COWS FOR DAIRY PURPOSES — HOW TO BE
SELECTED, AND THE MOST ADVANTAGEOUS
USE TO BE MADE OF THEIR MILK.

BY WILLIAM PARKHURST.

Every department of agriculture is yet in its infancy, dairy-
ing among others. Manufactures, the arts, and commerce,
have each received the fostering care of the government, and
are arrayed in gorgeous apparel, while agriculture, the first-
born of the family, has not only been deprived of the rights of
primogeniture, but is actually clothed in tatters ; we rejoice
that the government, as well as the people, are waking up to
a sense of their duty, and extending to this poor, forlorn child,
the paternal hand, and clothing it in a better costume.

Notwithstanding dairying has been carried on to a great
extent for centuries, still, it must be acknowledged by all, that
it is in a very imperfect state. In order to advance this great
enterprise, and bring it nearer to perfection, let each dairyman
record and publish to the world his experience and observation.

The above question may be divided into two parts ; 1st,
How to select dairy cows? 2d, How to dispose of their milk?
The most important step is the selection of the cows ; here
farmers differ, each having his favorite breed, and supporting
his opinions with at least a becoming zeal. Some are warm
advocates for the Alderney breed, others the Ayrshire, the
Durham, the Herefordshire, the Devon, the Sussex, &c., each
being considered best for the dairy ; a mLxture of the different
bloods is supposed to improve their dairy properties. Still, I
find many of our finest cows are of the pure native breed ; but
a cross with some foreign blood, generally, not only improves
for the dairy, but for raising stock. How shall the farmer,
who is entering this important branch of husbandry, choose
his cows ? by what traits ? by what marks shall he select those
cows that bid the fairest to make the finest milkers ? This can
never be done for a certainty. There are certain marks that,
generally, hold good ; not that each cow will have all the
striking traits, but a good cow will have some of the most

744 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

prominent ones. I know of no better way to discharge my
duty on this point, than by transcribing the opinions of those
who have devoted much time to this business.

Mr. Aiton, a Scotchman, whose remarks on cows were pub-
lished in 1812, and are regarded by English writers as reliable
authority, gives below the description of an Ayrshire cow : —

" The shapes most approved are as follows : — Head small,
but rather long and narrow at the muzzle ; the eyes small, but
quick and lively; the horns small, clean, bended, and their
roots at considerable distance from each other; neck long and
slender, tapering towards the head, with little loose skin hang-
ing below; shoulders thin, fore quarters light and thin, hind
quarters large and capacious ; back straight, broad behind,
joints of the chine rather loose and open ; carcase deep, and
the pelvis capacious, and wide over the hips ; with fleshy but-
tocks ; tail long and small ; legs small and short, with firm
joints ; udder capacious, broad and square, stretching forward,
and neither fleshy, low hung, nor loose ; the milk veins large and
prominent ; teats short, and pointing outwards, and a consider-
able distance from each other; skin thin and loose ; hair soft and
woolly; the head, bones and horns, and all parts of least value,
small, and general figure compact and well proportioned."

John Brooks, of Princeton, who has given great attention
to the raising of stock, and, particularly to those striking traits
that constitute a good cow for the dairy, says, in the American
Veterinarian : —

" Head and face rather long ; muzzle small ; eyes prominent,
bright and mild ; forehead, between the horns, narrow ; wide
between the eyes ; horns rather long, small, oval shaped, and
wax colored, smaller near the head than three or four inches
from it; neck slim and flat, not approaching to round; on
leaving the shoulders the neck should fall a little below the
line of the back ; straight on the back ; wide in the loins ; the
outlines of the loin should be nearly parallel ; thigh should be
thin ; hind legs straight and small, standing wide apart ; in
walking the cow should carry her hind legs straight forward,
not sling them out, describing the segment of a circle ; the
fore leg above the knee should be rather large ; below the
knee, small, approaching to round ; foot rather large than
small, but round, and of a dark wax color ; breast wide ; brisk-

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 745

et projecting well forward ; milk veins large ; deep in the flank;
large hind quarters, and small fore quarters ; bag, when empty,
small and skinny, not fleshy, running well forward into the
belly ; teats middling size, neither large nor small, but rather
long and elastic ; color of teats, reddish brown, never white ;
hair upon the bag, soft and silky, growing or pointing on the
hind parts upwards ; except she be a very good cow, she may
have an oval spot of hair growing downward, a little above
each hind teat ; if not quite so good, one spot above the left
hind teat ; if a little poorer, one spot above the right hind teat ;
hair thick, short and glossy ; color red, dun, or brindle, with a
golden colored ring around the eyes and muzzle."

The treatise on milch cows, by Guerson, a Frenchman, is
worthy the study of every dairyman, — that peculiar turning
up of the hair upon the udder, and embracing the vulva, called
the escutcheon. Its divisions and subdivisions, it appears to
me, are too minute to be of much practical use ; but so far as
I have examined cows, and conversed with others of great
experience, I find that this mark, when distinct, holds good. I
have never seen a cow, having this peculiar trait large and dis-
tinct, that was not a good milker. There may be exceptions ;
cows without this pe-culiarity may be good milkers, having the
other marks ; but, as a general thing, they will be either defi-
cient in the quantity or the quality of their milk, or the time
they continue to give it between their calves. A cow that
gives a large quantity of milk for a few weeks after calving,
and then goes dry four or five months, is a very unprofitable
cow, and ought to be removed from the dairy and fattened for
the shambles, and her place filled by a better one. Much de-
pends upon the time a cow goes dry between her calves. The
best cows on record have given milk almost without interrup-
tion. Cows that are great milkers are usually thin of flesh,
they had better go dry six or eight weeks; the calf will be
better, and the cow will be in a better condition to pass through
the parturient state. The cow holding out to give her milk
depends upon circumstances,-^upon the pasture, the kind of
food, the age, and, above all, upon the management of the
heifer with her first calf. K she is well fed, well cared for,
well milked, she will go dry but a short time between her
94

746 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

calves ; but if she is suffered to dry early with her first calf,
she cannot, usually, be made to hold out afterwards.

In selecting cows for the dairy, let the farmer take them from
his own heifer calves ; he knows his choicest cows, and the
sire of his calves. Select those that have the most prominent
traits that have been mentioned for good cows, for no one will
have them all, and put them to good keeping; that food that
will cause the fleshy parts to expand, and the secerning system
to fill the cellular tissue with a normal degree of fat, will
cause the lactescent vessels to enlarge, and be prepared to per-
form their functions, when the heifers come into the dairy,
which ought to take place when they are two or two and a
half years old.

A cow is considered to be in her prime from four to six
years old, and will continue good till she is ten or twelve —
many holding out much longer, if they have been well man-
aged. It is with the brute, as with man ; some fail early,
while others continue to perform the functions of life to a
much greater age ; both depending, in a great measure, upon
the manner they are treated. There cannot be too much said
upon the management of heifer calves that are designed for
the dairy. " It is of the greatest importance," says Professor
Johnson, "for dairy cows to be fed, from their earliest days, on
food that has a tendency to produce the milky secretion, and
to be kept on that description of food when they are not in
milk." By continued poor keeping, you can change a gentle,
kind, docile, fine, silky-haired cow, to a coarse, long-haired,
rough-skinned creature, better fitted for the race ground than
the dairy. Cows that come out from a long winter, spring-
poor, as the saying is, without flesh and a little strength, with
their milk veins almost converted into ligaments, will be of
little profit to the owner that year. The dairyman that under-
takes to keep twice as many cows as he has fodder, makes a
grand mistake ; half well fed will give more* profit than double
the number half fed. Animals, by domestication and kind
treatment, can be changed almost entirely, in their physical
forms, as well as in their dispositions. The little shrub can,
by continvied cultivation, be made the thrifty and beautiful
tree. Mr. Aiton says, "the urus of Lithuania is nearly as large

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 747

as the elephant ; while the cows in some of the Highland dis-
tricts in Scotland are not much larger than the goat. The
bison has a mane like the lion, a beard like a goat, and a
hump like the camel. But all these," he says, "are laid aside
when the animal is domesticated." Seek for those cows that
will make the most butter and cheese during the year; not
those that give the greatest quantity of milk, without any re-
gard to quality. A cow that will give a pailful of milk and
have it all serum, is worth nothing for the dairy ; the milk
will do to sell, if the man has a conscience to sell it. In order
to ascertain the true worth of a dairy, each cow ought to be
milked by herself, and the milk used by itself, so as to ascer-
tain the quantity of butter and cheese she would make in a
given time. By so doing the value of each cow for the dairy
might be determined. Farmers, by this process, who keep
large dairies, would discover that some of their cows would
yield double the profit of others. This would enable them to
remove the poor cow from the dairy, and fill her place with a
better one. The keeping of the two, other things being equal,
will be the same. This must make a serious loss to the owner.
It is not yet settled what breed of cattle are decidedly the best
for the dairy. This is yet to be determined by farther trials,
I will mention a few among the many of the celebrated cows
for the dairy. The English cow called the Cromp cow, is, per-
haps, the most celebrated for butter on record. The butter
made from her milk, for several successive years, amounted to
from 450 to 675 lbs. annually. She was of the Sussex breed.
The greatest quantity of milk she ever gave in one day was
twenty quarts. The most butter made from her millv in one
week was 18 lbs. Other cows have made more butter in a
week, and given more milk in a day. The advantage she had
over other great milkers was, she scarcely went dry at all be-
tween her calves. The celebrated Oaks cow of Massachusetts
made, in four years, 1,284 lbs. of butter, averaging 321 lbs.
annually. The greatest quantity of milk she gave in a day
was 18 quarts; the greatest quantity of butter made from her
milk in one week was 19|^ lbs. The noted cow of Mr. Le
Roy, Genesee Co., N. Y., calved in May, and on the 27th of
June he took from her, at three milkings, morning, noon, and
night, Sl^ quarts of good, rich milk ; which was not more, he

748 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

says, than an average for the whole month. But few cows
have exceeded this quantity. There is, however, a great defect
in this report, as the number of pounds of butter or cheese
that was made from her milk in a given time, is not mentioned.
As no particular breed can be depended upon, choose those for
the dairy that combine the best qualities; those whose general
aspect bids the fairest to make the finest milkers. Always
select a cow that has the most of a feminine appearance ;
never choose one that has the marks of the ox — a large head,
short, thick neck, and large fore quarters. Occasionally, one
of this description is very fine for milk ; but this is the excep-
tion, not the rule.

There is no department of agriculture that the farmer de-
rives, at the present time, so great a profit from, as dairying.
Many towns in the westerly part of the county of Worcester
are giving their attention to raising stock, by bringing into
this part of the county, bulls of full blood, most of the Durham
breed ; and many of the dairy cows are a cross of the native
with this or some other foreign blood. There are many very
fine dairies in New Braintree, Barre, Hardwick, and consider-
able butter and cheese is made in Petersham, and other towns
in this vicinity. No large dairies like Col. Meacham's and
others in the State of New York ; but few farmers keep more
than 30 or 40 cows, most of them not so many. The amount
of butter and cheese made in the above towns I have not the
means of knowing, but it is large, and of a superior quality.
New Braintree has, for many years, been known in the
market for her superior cheese, but, like the Minisenk butter,
immense quantities have been palmed upon the world, that
had no other of its traits than the New Braintree mark. We
can judge something of the value of dairying, in this region,
from the circumstance that many farmers, who can keep but a
few cattle, stock their farms almost wholly with dairy cows,
not even keeping a pair of oxen, but doing their farm-work,
principally, with a horse. This part of the county, like many
other parts, possesses good land for dairy purposes, produoing,
many years, much white clover and other grasses celebrated for
increasing the lactean secretion. We find no particular ac-
count in the census returns from the different States that will
enable us to give the number of milch cows in the Union. In

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 749

most parts of our country, dairying can be made profitable.
Much of the land in the South, particularly the larger planta-
tions in Virginia, that have been worn out by constant crop-
ping, can be reclaimed by good husbandry, and made eligible
for dairying, where now they only supply the inhabitants with
milk and butter. I believe there is but little cheese made at
the South. There is no land better fitted for dairying than the
great western prairies.

This country is destined to become a great agricultural
country ; in no one thing will it exceed the dairy enterprise.
There is no kind of husbandry that will yield to the farmer so
much profit, and to the country so much wealth, as dairying.
Cotton growing, the great staple of the South, is and must be
confined to that region, while the great dairying business may
be extended almost over the entire Union. In 1845, and I
have not at my command any later date, the milk product of
the State of New York alone, amounted to the enormous
sum of forty millions of dollars, at the low estimate of two
cents per quart for the milk sold, ten cents per pound for
butter, and five cents for cheese ; nothing is said of the
milk used for the calves. The writer of the above says, that
Pennsylvania and Ohio must have made, at a low estimate,
their dairies worth, in that year, sixty millions of dollars,
making the entire amount of the milk of the three States one
hundred millions, almost double the entire cotton crop of the
country. This was in 1845 ; for the last seven years there must
have been a large increase in the number of cows, consequent-
ly, a proportionate increase in their productiveness. Notwith-
standing the greatest care in the selection of cows, the finest
pasturage in summer, the best care in winter, with a neat,
warm, well ventilated cow-house, without good milkers, and a
dairymaid that is an adept at her business, much will be lost.
Regularity in milking is of the utmost importance. "Where
there are large dairies, I believe this labor is performed at
5, P. M., and 5, A. M. The dairyman does not intend that
anything shall divert him from this regular business. Even in
the hay season, when the rising thunder storm portends de-
struction to his day's work, the cows must be milked, come
what will. Much depends upon the milker ; it ought to be
the duty of every one that performs this labor to do it without

750 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

conversing with other persons. Cows should be milked quick
and clean. When once gone through with, they should be
again stripped, as the richest milk comes at the last of the
milking.

We come to the second part of the question : " The most
advantageous use to be made of the milk."

Milk is divided into three parts : the oily or butteraceous,
the buttermilk, and whey.

This last is by far the poorest part of the milk. It will be
perceived, at a glance, that the disposition of the milk depends
upon circumstances. In the first place, upon the location of the
dairy. If it is near a market, where the milk can be disposed
of at a reasonable price, it would be better to sell it than to make
it either into butter or cheese, unless there should be, from
some contingency, a disproportioned value between the two
last articles and the milk, which is not likely to be of perma-
nent duration. Farmers differ as to the quantity of milk it
takes to make a pound of butter. This depends upon the
quality of the milk. It usually takes from 22 to 28 pounds of
milk to make a pound of butter. We will say 25 pounds, or
about three gallons. If the milk will bring two cents a quart,
the farmer had better sell his milk than make it into butter,
though butter may be worth twenty cents a pound. There is
a great difference in the richness of milk. It is said that five
quarts from the famous Oaks cow would make a pound of
butter. The quality of the milk must depend upon the breed
of the cow, and the manner of feeding. It matters but
little what the breed is, if the cow is a starveling. A cow
kept upon coarse fodder, miserably poor, will return to the
owner milk as much deteriorated in quality as in quantity ;
dairies cannot be kept poor, and be profitable. In making
milk into cheese, this will again depend upon the relative value
of the articles. If seven quarts of milk, or nearly that, will
make a pound of cheese, would it not be better to sell the milk
for 1| cents a quart, than to make it into cheese, though the
cheese would bring nine cents a pound.

The serous portions, or whey, after the caseous part is re-
moved, is not very valuable, but worth something for store
pigs, but not so valuable as buttermilk, when the cream is
churned in the usual way. There is, I find, a great difference

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 751

among dairymen with regard to making butter or cheese,
which is the most profitable. Mr. French, of New York, says,
it costs him twice as much to make butter as cheese. I be-
lieve it is a practice in this part of the country to make butter
in the spring, till the cows have mostly come in, then to make
cheese as long as they hold out in the autumn ; as their milk
diminishes, make butter again, till they are dry. The milk in
many of our largest dairies, is entirely made into cheese after
they commence making, even buying their butter for family
use. Some, not many, churn all their cream in the usual way,
not making any cheese, and using the refuse milk and butter-
milk for fattening pork. This is the course pursued by many
of the Irish in this vicinity, as they are unacquainted with
cheese making. I think it is not generally made in Ireland.
They make their dairies profitable in this way. The most
profitable disposition of the milk, next to selling it, is, unques-
tionably, churning it, instead of the cream, in the usual way,
where there is a near and ready market for the butter. The
finest, the best flavored, and by far the most palatable butter,
it is said, is made in this way. Where the dairies are large,
this labor is performed by horse or steam power ; where they
are smaller, by dog or. sheep power.

The milk, after it has been deprived of its buttery principle
by the churning process, may be made into cheese. I do not
know that this is done, but it seems to me it might be, and
make a cheese, to be sure, inferior to a four meal, but superior
to a common skim cheese. If not disposed of in this manner,
it is valuable for fattening pork, or raising calves. I have seen
very fine calves raised by keeping them on skim milk, with a
little Indian or oat meal made into porridge. It is said that a
small quantity of molasses added to this gruel is a great im-
provement, as it is a substitute for the oily part of the milk.

I will quote a few remarks upon dairying, from the report of\
Harvy Dodge, of Sutton, to the agricultural department of the
Patent Office, in 1850, upon farming in the county of Worces-
ter. He says : " Milk is worth, in the south part of the county,
at the farmer's, for the Boston and Providence markets, two
cents a quart, eight months in the year ; and three cents the
four remaining months. For butter : eight quarts of milk for
a pound of butter; average price of butter, twenty cents a

752 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

pound. When butter is manufactured, the waste milk, for
swine or other purposes, covers all the cost of labor in its
manufacture. It is believed, that to manufacture our milk
into butter, instead of sending it to the market at the above
prices, would prove more profitable to the farmers of the
county; first, because the waste milk goes far towards grow-
ing and fattening swine, and in all cases where suitable help
can be obtained at fair prices, or more particularly, where the
farmer's wife or daughters can personally attend to its manu-
facture, it is believed that the waste milk very much more than
pays for all labor. Besides, the economy of feeding swine
with this milk, causes the farmer to feed double the number of
swine that his neighbor does, who sends his milk to market.
Hence the difference in the manure heap. Good cows should
be the first object for the dairy."

Farmers will do well to read the report, as it is a valuable
paper.

Let the dairy departments, and all their utensils, be kept in
the most perfect neatness; let the atmosphere of those rooms
be perfectly pure, not an odor arising to offend the most deli-
cate olfactories ; then shall the cheese room, replenished with
its golden treasures, not only delight and charm the eye of the
spectator, but fill the purse of the owner with the more solid
charms.

Pertersham, 1853.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 753

INDIAN CORN— THE VALUE OF THE CROP, AND
THE BEST MODE OF CULTIVATING IT.

BY J. R. LAWTON.

No grain raised by the farmer, especially in the New Eng-
land States, gives so large a return for labor bestowed, as corn.

This grain has properties for fattening cattle, swine, and
sheep, as well as fowls, which no other grain possesses. It la
fitted, when properly used, to supply the principal wants of
the domestic animals.

There is no grain possessing so large a per centage of oil,
which is readily converted into animal oil, or fat. This is only
done by a slight change of composition. This fact is clearly
illustrated by the distillers of the different kinds of grain. The
oil of corn, or any grain, cannot be converted into whiskey; it
rises during fermentation, and separates. Some distinguished
men have found by experiment that from one hundred bushels
of flint or northern corn, fourteen to sixteen gallons of oil were
actually taken. No other grain has ever produced a like per
centage of oil.

It is an admitted fact, by all who have had experience in
the fattening of cattle and swine on still slop, that they fatten
much faster while fed on the slop made of corn, than they do
on that made from any other grain. And if for cattle and
swine, I think it may apply to all animals intended for
slaughter.

Corn possesses a superior quality over other grain, from the
fact of its being, with natural ease, converted into bone, and
the important ligaments which support the physical structure
of the animal. While being properly fed on this grain, the oil
changes easily into fat, or animal oil, and the flinty portions of
the grain are forming bone and muscle, so that each of the two
important wants of the animal is with the greatest exactness
supplied ; perfectly answering the purpose for which it was de-
signed.

754 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

The value of this grain, by actual experiment in feeding,
clearly shows the worth of the crop to the farmer. 1 have for
many years fed from twelve to fifteen hundred bushels a year,
and some years more, preferring it to any other grain at the
market price. The flavor of the meat, when fed on corn, is
better, and the flesh has more solidity, notwithstanding the
large amount of oil it possesses.

Probably, there is no plant which possesses so much nutri-
ment as the leaf of corn. I would not be understood as saying
that the main stalk possesses much nutriment, other than,
when suitably prepared for the animal by being cut or mashed,
it serves as a retainer of the more nutritious food.

I have sometimes fed a lot of sheep on corn stalks, giving
them nothing else for several weeks in the commencement of
winter, and then changed them to good hay, but could never
have them do as well, and sometimes have been under the
necessity of giving grain for some time after the change.

Cultivators are apt to think their own way the best ; and
true it may be, to some extent, for different soils require differ-
ent treatment ; and the man who knows nothing of any soil
except the one he tills, is unable to judge of other soils, or how
they should be managed. Yet there is a law fixed by Him
who made the soil, and that should be well understood by the
husbandman to render him successful.

The use of manures in growing corn is quite important, and
much depends upon the manner of application. For instance,
should there be warm, coarse, active manures, put on dry sandy
land, the plant would soon dry up, (unless the season should
be very wet,) and the manure would spend itself without
benefiting either land or plant. "Whereas, if the same manures
were applied to cold, retentive lands, both crop and soil would
be benefited, in proportion to the quantity used and manner
applied.

This grain has many peculiar qualifies, and requires all
those properties in the soil, which the grain possesses.

The time to plough for this crop depends much upon the
kind of soil. If the land has a strong mixture of clay, with a
heavy sod, I think it should be ploughed early in the fall — say
the last of September or first of Oc^tober — preceding the spring

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 755

of planting ; thus giving the sod sufficient time to decompose,
and the hard clayey portions of the soil to become pulverized
by the action of the atmosphere and frost. This not only fits
it for the necessary wants of the plant, but renders it much
easier cultivated than it could possibly be by spring ploughing.

These lands should be ploughed deep, from seven to eight
inches, (if not subsoiled,) with a good coat of manure turned
under, for this, with the decomposed sod, furnishes a large
supply of nutritious matter through the season of growth. At
the same time there should be a dressing of pulverized manure,
say fifteen or twenty loads to the acre, and ploughed in before
planting, but not so deep as to disturb the old sod, for that
should be left as a resource for the corn roots through the latter
part of the season.

The land for all hoed plants should be well prepared by
ploughing and harrowing, to insure a good crop.

The more loamy and sandy soils may be ploughed in the
fall or spring, to advantage, if the furrow slice be laid flat, and
well harrowed or cultivated before fermentation commences,
by the decomposing of the sward and manures, if any have
been spread in before ploughing; so that all the gases may be
taken up by the soil, to be given off as the plant in its growth
may require.

These lands should never be ploughed less than seven inches
in depth. Deep ploughing almost invariably insures good
earing. While light or shallow ploughing is quite as sure to
give short ears and a light crop.

Some farmers prefer, after ploughing and harrowing, to mark
out their land with a dray, three and a half or four feet apart
each way, and plant on the furrow slice, which appears to me
to be incorrect ; for a good lot, well ploughed and prepared for
the crop, may be so managed in depositing the seed, as to give
a poor return for the labor bestowed. For instance, if the
land is ploughed deep, and the manure turned in as it should
be, leaving a cold inactive soil on the surface, and the seed
then deposited four feet apart between the hills, the corn can
never grow large, or yield more than twenty-five or thirty-five
bushels per acre. "Whereas, if the same lands were furrowed
out with a plough, down to the sward, (without disturbing it,)

756 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

three feet apart one way, and the same distance, or two feet
and eight inches, with a plough or dray, the other, and the
seed put in the bottom of the furrow, the roots immediately
strike the decomposed foliage and manure, which is their home.
There they remain, and bring forth the blade, stalk, and ear, in
rapid succession ; thus giving the farmer, after having passed
through it with the cultivator and horse four or five times each
way, and hoeing twice, a product of from fifty to seventy-five
bushels good sound corn to the acre.

The practice of most farmers (in the New England States
more particularly) has been to put their manure in the hill.
Consequently, they have had a larger growth of stalks, and
less corn than they would have had if they had spread it and
ploughed it in ; the strength of the manure being taken up in
the growth of the stalk, and at the season of earing and filling,
its only resource is from the soil, for the stalk has not the
power that it should have to put forth large long ears, nor
to fill out well what is formed.

Ashes and plaster, in equal parts, very much increase the
crop, especially on soils composed of sand and loam. Half a
pint of this mixture should be put in the hill, and a slight brush
of earth thrown upon it, otherwise the corn will not readily
vegetate. This manure answers two very important purposes :
1st. It gives the plant an early start, from the fact that the
roots, which start before the blade, immediately strike into the
ashes and plaster. 2d. The ashes decompose the sod under
the corn, and prepare it for the use of the plant.

The same mixture is equally beneficial on clayey loamy
soils, as on those more light and porous.

Much labor has been expended in raising large mounds
around the corn ; consequently the soil is taken from between
the hills, and many of the roots are broken and mutilated, and
in a dry season the plant suffers.

Level culture, or as near so as possible, Should be had. in the
tillage of this crop. The roots then remain unbroken, and in
compliance with those laws that govern the growth of this
plant, large supporting roots are sent out from the main stalk,
which give it the same strength in the ground that it has when
a large hill is made, and much labor is saved.

MASS. BOARD OF AGUICULTURB. 757

One item in the managing of this crop should not be lost
sight of. That is, in thoroughly cultivating it, keeping down
all the grass and weeds that start, which, if suffered to grow,
choke the plant, and take from it the strength and richness of
the soil, and also leave the land in a bad state for the follow-
ing crop.

758 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

EDUCATION OF THE YOUNG FARMER.

BY SIMON BROWN.

It is a remarkable fact, and one that will be contemplated
by posterity with regret, that while young men, destined for
other callings and professions in this country, have received
early in life, the rudiments of an education expressly adapted
to assist them in the successful prosecution of their respective
pursuits, the young' farmer has been overlooked in the great
scheme of popular education.

The wise liberality of our government, even from the era of
the Pilgrims to the present day, has, it is true, enabled him to
derive important advantages from our primary schools ; but
from these he has stepped forth upon the world's wide stage,
a perfect tyro in everything appertaining to the great calling
in which he is to engage. With the lawyer, the minister, and
the doctor, the case has been the reverse. In the primary
schools and academies of New England, young minds are
based on those principles of literature and science which con-
stitute the foundation of the professional education they are
subsequently to receive in the higher institutions. The great
labor of instruction goes regularly on from the first ; it com-
mences with the abecedarian, and is consummated by the pro-
fessor

" In those institutions
In whose halls are hung invincible armor
Of the knights of old."

But no thought is accorded to the young husbandman. If
he can read, write, cipher, tell whether his farm is located in
the eastern or western, hemisphere, and ascertain with correct-
ness the periods of the rising and setting of the "greater and
lesser lights" of heaven, it is deemed sufficient; it is "educa-
tion enough " for one, the ignoble nature of whose caljing
necessarily associates him with brute beasts, and whose mind
is supposed, or assumed, to be elevated but little above the
brutes he drives. Now this is not as it should be. In the
first place, we enter our protest against this false appreciation

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 759

of both the farmer and his profession. Where is the states-
man, philosopher, or politician, even, so blind as not to per-
ceive, that, should the plough stop, and the farmer relax, or
pause from his exertions but for a single year, not only would
all these boasted professions cease, but life itself. Over all
this beautiful earth, so teeming with riches, the pall of desola-
tion would be spread wide and deep. It is the hand of the
patient, but neglected farmer, who fills, by his labor, the golden
spoon of the capitalist.

It is his labor that builds and freights the proud argosies of
commerce ; it is his labor that sustains our manufactures, and
spreads over the surface of the globe that net-work, upon
which the iron horse "annihilates space," and along which the
lightnings of Jove convey messages of love and hope, literally
from the "rivers to the ends of the earth."

No scheme of improvement, no project of national aggran-
dizement, can be consummated without aid and assistance
from the farmer. Yet is he neglected ! Statutes and appro-
priations of public funds, for the dissemination of knowledge
immediately associated with the practical pursuit of agricul-
ture, are among the last things which will engross the mind,
or enter into the schemes of the partizan legislator. And this,
too, in a republican government, where the people are taxed
annually more than eight millions for the support of the
military.

How differently, and with how much wiser discrimination
they order things in France — monarchical France I maybe
seen by the following extract from a letter written a few years
ago by Mr. Walsh, who was residing in Paris : —

" We have regular reports of the sittings of the Convention
of Agriculturists of the North. The government lends it all
countenance and aid, and manifests a strong desire to estab-
lish societies and committees in every district of the realm. A
general scheme for this purpose was submitted on the 7th
instant by the inspector-general of agriculture, and was freely
and fully discussed."

But it will, perhaps, be said, that the appropriation of money
for this purpose would be injudicious, because farmers, as a
class, have no desire to improve. That there is a reluctance
on the part of many agriculturists to avail themselves of the

760 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

written wisdom of their predecessors and cotemporaries, I am
by no means disposed to deny. But in this reluctance I dis-
cover the force of habit, and a corroboration of the dictum, that
unless the farmer is educated to his profession, he will rarely
be disposed to inquire or improve. The old mill-horse path,
pursued under widely different circumstances, by his fore-
fathers, satisfies his ambition and bounds his perceptions of
the useful, so far as farming is concerned. He has no taste
for reading, simply because he never learned to read with
intelligence, and the natural consequence of this apathy is a
morbid prejudice against all books and periodicals, in which
the principles or practices of agriculture are discussed.

The Moslem dashed to pieces the microscope which showed
him there were animalculse in the food he ate ; and one of the
opponents of Galileo, when requested by that immortal,
but long persecuted man, to look at the moons of Jupiter
through the telescope which was proffered him, refused, for
fear of being convinced of his error, and thus reluctantly forced
from the position he had assumed.

Such is prejudice ; and such at this day is its force over the
minds of many of our agricultural friends, that they refuse to
adopt any system, or to favor any innovation that has received
the sanction of either pen or type. Science, in its application
to the details of agriculture, should be taught thoroughly to all
those who expect to obtain a livelihood by the cultivation of
the soil.

The young should be educated for the business they are to
pursue. A good knowledge of language is the basis of all
education. When this has been secured, let the young man
attend to those branches of knowledge that will fit him for his
special calling. If a boy is to be a sailor, teach him naviga-
tion, astronomy, meteorology, geography, the principles of ship
building, and a general knowledge of the commercial relations
existing among nations.

If he is to be a lawyer, thoroughly imbue his mind with a
knowledge of and taste for the classics. Teach him the history
of nations, especially of their governments and laws; then let
him plunge into the nature of general and special laws, and
the formulas connected with their execution.

All that you have taught the sailor would be of little use to

(

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 761

the law student. All that the lawyer has learned would poorly
fit the sailor to navigate his ship.

Teach the mechanic the principles of mechanism in general.
Give him a thorough knowledge of the mechanical powers,
and of their application to his particular pursuit. A knowl-
edge of navigation, law or divinity, will not help him to make
a cog-wheel, or contrive an instrument to suit a special
emergency.

There is this evil about all our common schools, that all the
pupils are required to study the same things. They are placed
in classes, and carried together over a general course of in-
struction. The same fact exists to a great extent in our
colleges.

Now this would all be very well if the course embraced only
those things that are necessary- to all, and further opportunities
were afl'orded to acquire those special things that are needed
by each. But the common school is the only school which
most of our youth are enabled to attend. Whatever they
learn of a scientific character, they must learn there. Those
who can afford it, attend special schools to learn particular
things. We have schools to teach navigation, book-keeping,
chemistry, mathematics, medicine, law, and divinity.

To meet the wants of agriculture, we must either have
special schools for acquiring those sciences necessary to its
successful pursuit, or those sciences must be taught in our
high schools throughout the State.

I know no good reason why a department might not be
created in all these schools, in which should be taught, by the
principal, or by some qualified teacher employed during the
winter months for this special purpose, a knowledge of the
elements of inorganic, vegetable, and animal chemistry, of phys-
iology, geology, botany, physical geography, and the general
principles of agriculture.

These subjects could not all be taught in one winter, but they
could in two, three, or four. So many persons are interested
in agriculture that one, two, or three schools would not meet
the demand. A class needs to be formed and instructed in
every town in the State. Let such a class be instructed by
competent persons, — and competent persons would soon be
found, if there were a demand for their services, — and our
96

762 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

young men might be safely left to themselves to make more
critical observations, and to engage in the experimental re-
search into the comparative value of crops, and the best
methods of producing them ; into the modification of soils, by
mixing, manuring, and draining them ; into the rotation of
crops, and the best means of preserving them, and of extract-
ing from them their nutriment; into the selection of animals^
and the best modes of preserving their health, and increasing
their growth and productiveness, and the various kindred sub-
jects, and in regard to which we need definite and accurate in-
formation.

The enterprise of our young men only needs to be enlight-
ened by sound elementary knowledge, and guided by laws of
science, and it wovild work out those results which the best in-
terest of our country demands. Give to a young man a good
knowledge of his own business, and a taste for reading, and in
these days, when the world is flooded with books and news-
papers, he will gather from reading, from observation, and from
intercourse with men, all the knowledge that he needs of po-
litics, of history, and of the avocations of other men.

There exists a great error in our whole system of education,
necessarily incident to the condition of a new country, and
which time and circumstances will correct. By the theory of
our government, every man may aspire to every office. In
former days, many individuals were called to fill a variety of
places. The same man often acted as a farmer, a mechanic,
a judge, and a military officer. He made shoes and made
laws ; raised corn and fought the enemies of his country.
The young were so educated that they might be fitted to act
as circumstances should demand. But the times have changed,
and we must change with them, or find ourselves behind the
times. The divisions of labor have become fixed. Such is
the keenness of competition, that success can only be hoped
for, by the devotion of one's whole energy to his special pur-
suit. There can be no doubt that perfection in the several
sciences and arts, can only be attained by division and subdi-
vision of labor, and reference should be had to this fact, in
arranging the education which the young are to receive ; oth-
erwise, time that might be profitably employed in acquiring
knowledge essential to success in business, might be wasted.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 763

There are other reasons, of a moral and psychological char-
acter, which urge us to give the young a much more extended
course of study on physical subjects, than they have hitherto
received. Nothing, so well as the study of such subjects, gives
them a habit of accurate observation, and careful deduction
from facts, and saves them from hasty and unsound conclu-
sions.

Nothing so contributes to that minute attention to the phe-
nomena that we witness around us, by which we are daily and
hourly accumulating useful knowledge.

Nothing so effectually calms the passions and leads to habits
of thought and sobriety, as the constant presence of the beau-
tiful, the grand, and the wonderful in nature, and the con-
sciousness that there are laws working and controlling, and
guiding and modifying all things around us and in us, and to
which we ourselves are amenable.

Then, again, we are constantly taught lessons of trust, of
hope, and of benevolence, by observing the course of nature,
and the operation of the laws of Providence, and should be led
to their exercise in our own lives. Tn fact, nothing so directly
tends to teach us reverence for the Great Author of nature as
the study of his works, in the exercise of a proper spirit.

These, then, are some of the qualifications which the young
farmer should possess. How he shall acquire them is a much
more difficult matter to determine. A few points will be
mentioned.

There are, undoubtedly, good jewellers, carpenters, printers
and farmers, who were not engaged in either of these occupa-
tions in early life ; but they became so from an unusual taste
and aptness for the profession of their choice. The general
result is, that those who have not been familiar in their youth
with the business in which they are engaged, rarely distinguish
themselves as good workmen, or accumulate property in its
prosecution.

If this be so, it becomes a matter of the first importance that
the farmer shall have been initiated into all the operations of
the barn, the garden, and the field, in early life.

Like those of the printer at his case, or the smith at his
forge, if the manipulations of the farm are once thoroughly
learned in youth, they will ever afterwards be familiar.

764 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Some mode, then, must be devised, by which the practices
of Imshandri/ shall become famiUar ivhile the intellectual founda-
tion is being- laid ; and this is the point Avhich has been sadly
overlooked. While the mind is stored with facts, their appli-
cation is entirely neglected, and the young farmer enters upon
his estate, to conduct his affairs, as would the landsman, called
to the helm of a ship, when approaching a lee shore I He finds
himself surrounded by implements whose names are familiar,
and whose uses he has often discussed and commended, but of
their fitness for any particular work he knows little or nothing!
He becomes oppressed with the thought that he is master of
the estate but not of its operations', and in these must remain
the servant of others, until, by dint of experience, he has ac-
quired that knowledge which should have been gathered with
his theories.

This is the first false step in the education of the young
farmer. His practical progress should begin and keep pace
with bis intellectual progress. By a system of familiar teach-
ing from the parent, he must be called to the barn, the garden,
the field and workshop, and made acquainted with the duties
of each. And this must be done by a course so gradual and
natural, and with so little interruption to the indulgence in
amusements agreeable to every youth, that he shall scarcely be
able, in his riper years, to say when his practical education
began. It must come so kindly and fitly with other things
about him, so in consonance with his views and desires, that
he shall have no knowledge of mental eifort in acquiring the
uses of all the implements of the farm.

At tie sam^e time, he must be led quietly along into the
higher regions of agricultural pursuit — into what may be
termed, without too much license, the poetry of the farm. He
must learn that the commonest things about l)im involve some
great principle, necessary to be understood. For example:
if watering the cattle, be may be required to-give the principle
of raising water by the pump, or some other question in hy-
draulics ; if teaming or ploughing, why the work is more ea,sily
performed when the team is near the load than when further
removed ; if in the morning, when the grass is sparkling with
pearly drops, hoic dew is deposited ; or, if in the silent and im-
pressive evening hours, why he is chilled in passing the valley,

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 765

and finds again the genial warmth on ascending the hill.
And when around the fireside, daughters may state the princi-
ple upon which the smoke ascends the chimney, and why the
air is warmest at the top of the room ; or why the " pitcher
sweats," as it is called, filled with cold water, in the hot noon,
or the " dough rises " in the pan ; for it is as important that
the young maiden shall be rightly taught as the young man.

Every opportunity must be improved to press upon the
mind the wonderful operation of the laws about him. These
will form topics of contemplation while guiding the plough, or
cradling the grain, and so fill the mind with the beneficence
and beauty with which Infinite Wisdom has encircled him, as
to free farm-work from all semblance of drudgery, and the
mind from all tendencies to discontent.

With such kindly intercourse, the teacher and the taught
will store up information that will be practical and useful in
the future operations of the farm. But this is not all that will
be gained. Going back to first principles, and understanding
something of the wonderful mechanism of his animals and
plants, fills his mind with intimate and delightful associations
existing in the relations of his occupation. He not only
studies the frame-work of his domestic animals, and the form-
ation of his plants, but the lesser animals that seek their living
on his domains.

If the birds of the air are cared for, although they " neither
sow nor reap," and "neither have storehouse nor barn," he
will find them worthy of his study, and in this exercise increase
his own happiness and ability to manage his affairs. He will
investigate, even though it be but slightly, everything that has
a direct bearing upon the profession in which he is engaged.
The insects, varieties of stock, soils, atmospheric changes and
influences, the seasons, and growth and nature of plants, bud-
ding, grafting, transplanting, and hybridizing, will all receive
attention, and a partial knowledge of them will be easily
acquired through the intellectual foundation which has been
so carefully laid. But there is still another point, utterly
neglected, if even ever thought of, in the education of the young'
farmer.

No one would trust his interests in a suit at law with an

766 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

advocate who was not familiar with Vattel, Blackstone, and
other lights and guides in that profession; and so of the cler-
gyman and physician. But the first case in the Common-
wealth is yet to come to my knowledge where the young farmer
has passed through a systematic course of reading in agricultural
lore ; or where he is generally acquainted with the writings of
those who have devoted their talents to the interests of their
fellow men in this department of science.

The names and opinions of Markham, Tull, Young, Mar-
shall, Forsyth, Bakewell, Loudon, Davy, Johnston, Liebig,
Dickson, Boussingault, Coleman, Buel, Fessenden, Downing,
Norton, and a great many others, whose writings areas impor-
tant to the young farmer, as Coke and Littleton are to the
young lawyer, remain as a dead letter to most of the husband-
men in the State. For the want of this reading, the young
may fall into the errors of Tull, or cloud their usefulness by min-
gling in politics, as did Young. It has been stated by high au-
thority that Tull was the "real founder of every recent improve-
ment that has been made in the agriculture of England." And
yet, important as those improvements must be to us here, the
writings of that individual are scarcely better known than the
hyeroglyphics on the obelisks of Egypt I

We have a fine agricultural literature, full of sound and
valuable teachings, sometimes made attractive by ornate de-
scriptions, with beautiful imagery and illustrations, and thus
possessing a charm for the young and imaginative equal to
any class of literature of the age. Most of this lies unused in
the "old fields" of neglect, for want of proper effort to bring it
into notice and use.

Some of the most attractive volumes in the language, upon
the subjects of chemistry, physiology, botany, geology, upon
the philosophy of the seasons, the effects of climate, and the
poetry of scientific agriculture, have sprung from the ablest
minds of the age. Some of these works admirably illustrate
the wonderful phenomena in nature, on the farm, and give the
farmer's occupation an interest heretofore unknown.

After a fair remuneration for his labor, there is no one thing
which will afford such contentment to the farmer as a general
knowledge of the literature of the great art. And I earnestly

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 767

press upon the Board, the importance of devising some meas-
ures to diffuse this iinowledge more generally among the
people.

One thing is obvious. Something must be done to counter-
act the prejudice which at present exists in the minds of our
young men against farming. The profession is unpopular,
and agriculture, over a vastly preponderating extent of our
territory, is not only unpopular, but to great numbers unprofit-
able. Our farms are rapidly deteriorating, and every year
beholds thousands and tens of thousands of our most intelli-
gent and enterprising husbandmen selling out and moving
either into our cities or to the far West.

But it will be said that this should not be regarded as a
calamity. Why ? Because the fewer the tillers, the higher
the price of their products. But will such sophistry silence the
apprehensions of the statesman ? I think not. Those who
forsake their farms are, in nine cases out of ten, the most
industrious and intelligent of their class ; they have become
disgusted, — partly, it is true, in consequence of their incapacity
to lay up money, — and their example is before the rising gene-
ration. Few young men who can obtain a clerkship, or a
position behind the counter of a grocery or dry goods store, in
a factory or on a steamboat, will think of laboring on a farm.
There is something disgraceful even in the idea. But throw
open the doors of science ; exhibit to them the beauties and
capacities of this shamefully neglected branch of industrial
life, and the tables will soon be turned. Let us have Liebigs
and Loudons, Davys and JefTersons, issuing from our agricul-
tural colleges, and charming the world with the eloquence of
their lore, and let these men and their sons cleave to the soil,
and who then will point at the farmer as a fit object for
ridicule and reproach ?

The objects of agricultural education, therefore, should not
only embrace the improvement of the soil, but, by an ulterior
or secondary action, the reclamation of the popular mind from
the errors into which it has been urged by the neglects of the
farmer.

There is an all-powerful instinct implanted in man's nature
which impels him irresistibly to pursue that which is most
honorable in the world's esteem. And in the present economy

768 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

of society, it unfortunately happens that what is deemed most
honorable is most profitable. There may be exceptions, but
as society is at present constituted this is to be regarded as a
rule. The village merchant — sometimes, it is true, by dis-
honest means — realizes his thousands, while the poor farmer is
running almost as rapidly into debt. The manufacturer, and
broker, and even the mechanic, " put money in their purses."
This is seen and understood by the sons of farmers, and their
early prepossessions against a farmer's life are but too often
streno-thened and confirmed, when from the admiring contem-
plation of these more lucrative employments they withdraw
their bedizened eyes to fix them upon the poverty, wretched
destitution and squalor, even, of home. But science, and the
o-eneral diflusion of useful knowledge, will be found a ready
corrective of this, at present, great national evil. Let the edu-
cation of the young farmer be such as will tend to drav/ his
affections towards the endearing and ennobling objects of rural
life, rather than to divert them ; let them behold the wealthy
and intelligent engaged in the pursuits of agriculture, sur-
rounded by the elegancies and embellishments of polished life,
and his mind will at once derive happiness from a pursuit with
which he now beholds himself identified, and which, conse-
quently, he contemplates with satisfaction and delight.

January, 1853.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 769

BEST METHOD OF LAYING DOWN LAND TO
GRASS, AND CONTINUING THE PRODUCT.

BY FRANCIS BREWER.

It may appear to many that the subject here presented is of
too small consequence to require examination, that much,
perhaps all, that can be said, is now before the public. After
all that can be said, every individual will pursue his own
opinion, and follow the dictates of his own discretion. This
right we will not invade.

******

The methods which now most generally prevail in the east-
ern and middle States, of seeding their grass lands, is of a very
recent date, but is rapidly gaining the confidence of the public
mind. Indeed, we need not go back more than ten years to
commence our testimony to its rise and progress, for in the
year 1843 we find that a premium of $200 was awarded to
Benjamin Poor, of West Newbury, for the best cultivated farm
within the State of Massachusetts. In their report upon this
subject, the committee of the State Society say : " Mr. Poor
states that after his crop of hay is taken off the ground, the
land is then ploughed, laying the furrows flat ; a liberal top-
dressing is then applied, and rye and grass seed is sowed and
rolled in. A bushel, and sometimes a bushel and a half of
grass seed per acre is used. Mr. Poor, after using much of his
grass for soiling his stock through the summer, estimates his
crop of hay on hand the first day of August at 157 tons. He
mows 86 acres."

R. L. Pell, of Pelham, Ulster County, N. Y., having been re-
quested to make public the experiment he has tried and fully
tested, says, in January, 1844 : " I now submit them with all
due deference to the opinions of my superiors in agriculture.
When preparing a meadow or upland, I usually seed on wheat,
sowing in the fall, half a bushel of Timothy seed to the acre,
and the following spring, after a moderate fall of snow, one
bushel of clover seed, top-dressed with charcoal dust, and
97

770 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

rolled. From land so treated, I cut the last season three tons
of hay to the acre."

The viewing committee on farms in Norfolk County, in their
report for 1844, say: — " The farm of Cheever Newhall, in Dor-
chester, Mass, furnishes one of the best examples of productive
husbandry we have anywhere met with." And upon the sub-
ject of sowing grass seed, say : " Mr. Newhall decidedly prefers
the fall, for sowing grass seed ; thinks August too early for his
farm, but has been very successful in late sowing; showed a
beautiful piece of sward sowed down on the 7th of October,
1843."

The editors of the Albany Cultivator, in answer to an in-
quirer in 1845, say : " We should prefer the latter part of
August for sowing grass seed."

In 1847, Frederick Holbrook, of Brattleborough, Vt., in a
communication to the Cultivator, on the subject of seeding
grass lands, says : " A new practise has obtained among some
farmers in this section of seeding down to grass upon the green
sward furrow, in the latter part of August or the first of Sep-
tember. When a piece of land becomes ' bound out,' as the
phrase is, or ceases to yield a good swarth, it is carefully and
nicely turned over by the plough at this season and rolled
down. Fifteen to twenty loads of compost are theij spread to
the acre and harrowed both ways of the furrow ; the grass seed
is then sowed and covered with a brush harrow. And among
other advantages derived from this process, says : " The land
may be thus kept highly productice in grass with less manure
than by the system of ploughing and planting one or two years
and then seeding with a grain crop."

And the same writer, after visiting the farm of Clark Rice,
Esq., in Dummerston, Vt., in 1848, says: "Mr. Rice has sev-
eral acres of grass land, too moist to plough -and cultivate in
the spring, but obtains fine crops of hay from this land by
ploughing it in August, when a light dressing of compost is
spread on top of the furrows and harrowed in. The land is
then seeded down to grass again, without sowing grain ] and
this process is repeated as often as the more valuable grasses
have been supplanted by wild grass."

Mr. Levi Durand, of Derby, Conn., in a very elaborate article
communicated to the Cultivator in 1849, on seeding grass

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 771

land, says: " Of late years we have been more inclined to fall
seeding on winter grain as more certain of a good catch for
Timothy and redtop;" and says, further : "A very good plan
is practised in Massachusetts, where meadow lands are rather
moist and are intended to be kept in grass without cropping.
Sometime in August, the ground is nicely turned over with
the plough, the ground rolled down, and, if to be had, a good
dressing of compost is spread on ; then the grass seed is sowed
and harrowed in evenly with a fine-tooth harrow, and made
smooth with the roller. Managed in this way, the land can
be constantly/ in grass. As to the amount of seed per acre, no
certain rule can be laid down. Light soils, as a general rule,
require more seed than moist ones. I have just now (October
15) seeded down two acres with wheat, with one bushel red-
top and a half bushel Timothy. This gives three pecks of seed
to the acre." Having thus followed the direct testimony for
the last eight years, leading to certain conclusions, we feel
perfect security in the authorities referred to, and only add our
own observation as additional evidence, and refer to the prac-
tise of Horatio Sargeant, of Springfield, whose operations in
agricultural pursuits are often referred to. He practises the
same rule, varying as circumstances require ; sometimes sow-
ing upon reversed sward and mixing turnip seed instead of
winter grain, or immediately after the removal of his corn,
potato, or tobacco crops. Other judicious cultivators in this
vicinity are pursuing the same course.

******
These views are, with much deference, respectfully submitted.

772 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

FARMERS' CLUBS.

BY STEPHEN REED, M. D.

In the material world, close contact with a little motion is
indispensable to heat, life, and light. Strange as it may seem,
this is no less true in the province of mind. We all know,
that unless mind comes in contact with mind, and thought
awakens and calls out thought, an alpine cap of eternal snow
is not more dead and cold than the perceptive and reasoning
faculties of our race. The farmer is placed under peculiar
temptations. The earth, with whose embrace he comes more
closely in contact than any other person, is a bounteous mother.
Unasked, she makes her guests large donations, and is ever
ready to return, in large measures, all the favors she receives
from them. In the farmer's hand she places her gifts, to be
dispensed by him to others. His mill is first on the stream, and
water, if water there is, to him is sure. The man below, whose
supply of water is short and precarious, is the man from whom
we expect new discoveries and valuable improvements in the
construction of water wheels and the application of water
power. Mind, acting with mind, may do more for the latter,
than position for the former. Yet, while this is acknowledged,
the temptation is strong in the former to grind on in the old
way.

******

If it is true, then, that the mind is the measure of the man,
the farmer must be educated, or he must sink from his present
position. He must be better educated, or he cannot hold his
present relative position. It is the true province of education
to draw out, and paradoxical as it may seem, the more you
draw out of the mind, the more there is left. The more it
gives to-day, the more it will be able to give to-morrow. True,
you may tumble knowledge into the mind as you may tumble
goods into your house, until you cannot get in yourself, or
make any use of what is in it, but this is not education. It is
not that action of mind, that mental labor, which produces
mental power. Far different from this is the Farmers' Club.

MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 773

Giving is emphatically the order there. The club organized,
the first act is introduced by sonne member, giving to his fel-
lows the results of his reading, his thinking, and his experi-
ments on the soil best adapted to the different varieties of po-
tatoes; on the breed of cattle best suited to the purpose of
him whose business it is to furnish butter for the market, or on
whatever subject the club have selected for the evening's dis-
cussion. He now turns his own eye to the strange reservoir
from which he has been drawing. It has given all it had.
Yet, when it is examined, it is found fuller than before ; and
what most surprises him, is the clearness of the water. Ob-
jects, which before seemed dim and indistinct, now show their
minuter parts. Were you to call upon him to draw again
from that same fountain, it would give you a clearer, purer
draught. But the giving has enlarged the capacity for receiv-
ing. When his neighbor comes, in turn, to speak of his ex-
periments and their results, he sees more clearly the points of
agreement, and investigates more closely the causes which
have led to different results. The whole process is most
strictly an educating process. Thought draws out thought :
mind acts upon mind. No matter if there is a little friction,
raising, in a slight degree, the temperature. Every chemist
knows that in his laboratory this is often necessary to the per-
fect success of many experiments.

The temptation for the farmer to eat the first fruits of his
labor, and sit down in comparative inactivity, needs the excite-
ment a farmers' club is well calculated to give. It arouses the
mind, stimulates inquiry, and breaks up that routine of thought
and conversation which six evenings in the week, in the lan-
guage of a school-teacher who boarded around the district,
" begins with grandfather's cows, and ends with the feats which
father's horses used to perform." But where a well-regulated
farmers' club exists, the most stereotype mind will be moved.
The opinions of others will be noticed, thought about and
talked about, perhaps at first only in ridicule, but even this is
almost infinitely better than that lethargic state, which makes
the Russian serf a serf, and the millions of France the willing
subjects of the power of mind.

The farmers' club is a labor-saving machine, operating on

774 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

the true principle of a division of labor. One may investi-
gate, and the results become the property of all. The rock on
which our fellow split, may be shunned by us. To the breeze
which filled his sails, we may spread our canvas. If we fail
where he succeeded, it stimulates the mind to a closer exami-
nation, to detect the causes which produced a difference in re-
sults. If, for instance, in a discussion upon ploughing, a
member advocates a new system, and in time brings among
us a new kind of plough fitted for the work he advocates,
how carefully we watch the progress of his work, and the re-
sult as shown in his crops. If he is successful, we follow his
example. If he fails, we laugh at him for what we should
hank him, and then steer clear of the rock on which he struck.

APPENDIX.

LAWS OF MASSACHUSETTS IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURAL
SOCIETIES, UP TO IVIAY 10, 1853, INCLUSIVE.

CHAPTER 42/

OF AGRICULTURAL CORPORATIONS.

Section

1. Incorporated agricultural societies

may be entitled to an annual sum
from the treasury, by, &c.

2. When unincorporated societies shall

be entitled to a charter.

3. Previous duty of societies claiming

allowance from the treasury.

4. Premiums to be offered by societies,

&c.

Sectiox

5. Surplus money, to be put at interest.

6. Premiums for raising trees for ship

timber.

7. To what societies the preceding

provisions extend.

8. Cattle shows regulated.

9. Penalty for violating regulations.

10. Extent of foregoing provisions.

11. Marshals to be appointed, to exe-

cute regulations.

Section 1. Every incorporated agricultural society, which shall
have raised or may hereafter raise, by contribution of individuals, and
put out at interest, on public or private security, the sum of one thou-
sand dollars, as a capital stock appropriated for the uses of such society,
shall be entitled to receive, in the month of October, annually, out of
the treasury of the Commonwealth, the sum of two hundred dollars,
and in that proportion annually, for any greater sum so contributed and
put at interest, as a capital stock ; provided, that no agricultural society
shall receive from the treasury more than six hundred dollars in any
one year.

Sect. 2. Any agricultural society, formed within any county or
counties, wherein there is no incorporated society for the same purpose,
and which shall raise and put out at interest, as a capital stock, not less
than one thousand dollars, for the uses of such society, shall receive,
on application to the legislature, an act of incorporation, in the usual

* Revised Statutes.

776 APPENDIX.

form, and with the customary rights and powers ; and after such incor-
poration, the society shall have all the privileges, secured to other agri-
cultural societies, on complying with the terms and provisions herein
contained; provided, that no agricultural society shall have the benefits
of this section, unless the same be formed in a county, or in an asso-
ciation of counties, including a population of not less than twenty-five
thousand inhabitants.

Sect. 3. Every agricultural society, which shall claim the said
allowance out of the public treasury, shall, in the month of October,
annually, file in the office of the Secretary of State, a certificate signed
by the president and treasurer of such society, specifying under oath
the sum actually contributed, and put at interest, and then held by them
well secured as a capital stock ; and a warrant shall be drawn for the
sum to which such society may be entitled.

Sect. 4. Every agricultural society, which shall receive the said
allowance from the public treasury, shall offer annually, by way of
premiums, or shall apply otherwise, at their discretion, for the encour-
agement or improvement of agriculture or manufactures, a sum not less
than the amount annually received, as aforesaid, out of the public trea-
sury ; and they shall also transmit to the office of the secretary, in the
month of January, annually, a statement of their proceedings in relation
to the expenditure of such moneys, specifying the nature of the en-
couragement proposed by the society, and the objects for which their
premiums have been ofl^ered, and to whom they were awarded ; and
shall accompany the same with such general observations, concerning
the state of agriculture and manufactures, in the State, as they may
deem important or useful.

Sect. 5. All moneys offered for premiums, which shall not bo
awarded or paid, shall be put out at interest, and added to the capital
stock of each agricultural society.

Sect. 6. Every agricultural society, which shall receive the said
public allowance, shall offer, annually, such premiums and encourage-
ment, for the raising and preserving of oaks, and other forest trees, as
to them shall seem proper, and best adapted to perpetuate, within the
State, an adequate supply of ship timber.

Sect. 7. The foregoing provisions shall not extend to any agricul-
tural society, which has been, or hereafter may be, incorporated for
any territory less than a county.

Sect. 8. All incorporated agricultural societies may, by their offi-*
cers, define and fix bounds of sufficient extent, for the erection of their
cattle pens and yards, and for convenient passage ways to and about
the same, on the days of their cattle shows and exhibitions, and also
for their ploughing matches, and trials of working oxen ; within which

APPENDIX.

777

bounds no persons shall be permitted to enter or pass, unless in con-
formity with the regulations of the officers of said societies, respectively.

Sect. 9. If any person shall, contrary to the regulations of the said
officers, and after notice thereof, enter or pass within the bounds so
fixed, he shall forfeit a sum not exceeding five dollars, to be recovered
in an action on the case, for the use of the society, by the treasurer
thereof

Sect. 10. The foregoing provisions shall not authorize such so-
cieties to occupy, or include within the bounds which they shall fix for
the purposes aforesaid, the land of any person, without his consent, nor
to occupy any turnpike or public highway, in such a manner as to ob-
struct the public travel.

Sect. 11. The officers of every such society may appoint a suffi-
cient number of suitable persons, inhabitants of the county, to act as
marshals, at cattle shows and exhibitions, and they shall have and exer-
cise all the powers of constables, iri relation to the preservation of the
public peace, and the service and execution of criminal process, within
the towns, respectively, where such shows and exhibitions may be held ;
and any such criminal process may be directed to them accordingly;
and they shall exercise their said office, from twelve o'clock at noon of
the day preceding the commencement of such shows and exhibitions,
until twelve o'clock at noon of the day succeeding the termination
thereof, and no longer.

CHAPTER 31. — 1842.

AN ACT RELATING TO RETURNS FROM AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

Section
1. Returns, in 1842, to be made on or
before April 1st, to entitle societies
to the allowance provided by law.

Section
2. After 1842, returns to be made with-
in the month of January, to entitle
to allowance.

Sect. 1. No agricultural society which, on the first day of April,
in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-two, shall have
neglected to make returns to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, as
required by the first and fourth sections of the forty-second chapter of
the Revised Statutes, shall be entitled to receive the allowance from the
Commonwealth, as therein provided.

Sect. 2. No agricultural society, which shall not have made returns
to the office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth within the month of
98

778

APPENDIX.

January, in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-three, and
within the month of January in each succeeding year thereafter, as
required by the sections of the Revised Statutes mentioned in the pre-
ceding section, shall be entitled to receive any aid from the Common-
wealth. [February 25, 1842.]

CHAPTER 111.-1845.

AN ACT REQUIRING ADDITIONAL RETURNS FROM AGRICULTURAL

SOCIETIES.

Section

1. Agricultural societies to make certain

returns annually to the Secretary of
the Commonwealth.

2. Passages in reports, &c., worthy of

public notice, &c., to be marked.

3. Copy of this act to be transmitted by

Sectiox

the Secretary.

4. Abstract to be annually published by

the Secretary.

5. Penalty for neglect tO' comply with

this act.

6. Repeal of inconsistent provisions.

Sect. 1. Every pgricultural society entitled to receive money from
the treasury of the Commonvk^ealth, shall, in addition to the return of
premiums paid, now required to be made in the month of January,
make full returns of their doings into the office of the Secretary of
State, on or before the first day of January, in every year, embracing
all reports of committees, and all statements of experiments and culti-
vation, deemed by the officers of the several societies worthy of publi-
cation.

Sect. 2. The secretary of each society, whether his return be m
printed or manuscript form, shall mark, in a manner to be easily dis-
tinguished, those passages in the several reports and statements which
he regards as most worthy of public notice, study and application.

Sect. 3. The Secretary of State is directed to transmit a copy of
this act to the secretary of every incorporated agricultural society in
the Commonwealth, on or before the first day of September, 1845.

Sect. 4. The Secretary of State is hereby directed to cause as full
an abstract from said returns to be made and published in each year,
for distribution, as in his judgment will prove useful.

Sect. 5. Any agricultural society which shall neglect, in any year,
to comply with the provisions of this act, shall forfeit its claim to bounty
from the Commonwealth the succeeding year.

Sect. 6. Any parts of passed acts inconsistent with the provisions
of this, are hereby repealed. [March 7, 1845.]

APPENDIX.

779

CHAPTEK 69. — 1847

AN ACT RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

Section

1. Certificate of capital stock to be filed
I annually in the Secretary's office,

by agricultural societies claiming
the bounty. Return of doings, ex-
penditures, &c., to be made at the
same time.

2. How amount of bounty to be ascer-

tained.

3. Bounty forfeited by neglect.

Section

4. Abstract of returns to be published

annually for distribution.

5. Forfeitures incurred by R. S. ch. 42,

§ 9, — how prosecuted for and paid
over.

6. Secretary to transmit copies of this

act to agricultural societies.

7. Acts, &c., repealed.

Sect. 1. Every agricultural society which shall claim the bounty
of the Commonwealih, according to the provisions of the first section of
the forty-second chapter of the Revised Statutes, shall, annually, on or
before the tenth day of January, file in the office of the Secretary of
the Commonwealth, a certificate, signed by the president and treasurer
of such society, specifying, under oath, the sum actually contributed
and put at interest, and then held, well secured, as a capital stock.

Every such society shall, at the same time, make a full return of
its doings, signed by its president and secretary, embracing a statement
of the expenditure of all moneys, specifying the nature of the encour-
agement proposed by the society, the object for which its preminms
have been offered, and to whom they have been awarded, and including
all reports of committees, and all statements of experiments and culti-
vation, regarded by said president and secretary as worthy of publi-
cation. The return, whether in printed or manuscript form, shall be
marked in such manner, that those passages in the several reports and
statements deemed by such officers most worthy of public notice, study,
and application, may be easily distinguished.

Sect. 2. The amount of bounty to which any agricultural society
may be entitled for the year one thousand eight hundred and forly-
seven shall be ascertained by the certificate to be filed in the month of
October, according to the provisions of law as heretofore existing; and
for the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-eight, and each year
thereafter, by the certificate previously filed by such society, according
to the provisions of this act.

Sect. 3, Any agricultural society which shall neglect, in any year,
to comply with the foregoing provisions, shall forfeit its claim to the
bounty of the Commonwealth the year next succeeding.

780 APPENDIX.

Sect. 4. The Secretary of tlie Commonwealth is hereby directed
to cause to be made and published, in each year, for distribution, as full
an abstract as, in his judgment, will be useful, from the returns afore-
said of the agricultural societies.

Sect. 5. Any person who shall incur the forfeiture mentioned in
the ninth section of the forty-second chapter of the Revised Statutes,
may be prosecuted, by complaint before any justice of the peace, who
shall have jurisdiction thereof; and all forfeitures so recovered shall be,
by said justice of the peace, paid over to the county treasurer, for the
use of the county.

Sect. 6. The Secretary of the Commonwealth is hereby directed to
transmit a copy of this act to the secretary of every incorporated agri-
cultural society in the Commonwealth, on or before the first day of
September next.

Sect. 7. The thirty-first chapter of the acts of the year eighteen
hundred and forty-two, also, the one hundred and eleventh chapter of
the acts of the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-five, and all
parts of acts heretofore passed, inconsistent with the provisions of this
act, are hereby repealed. [March 11, 1847.]

CHAPTER 215. — 1851.

AN ACT TO EXEMPT AGHICULTURAL SOCIETIES FEOM TAXATION.

Be it enacted, 8j-c.^ as foUoirs :

From and after the passage of this act, the property, both real and
personal, of all agricultural societies, which are now or may hereafter
be incorporated, shall be exempted from taxation. [May 21, 1851.]

CHAPTEE 246. — 1852.

AN ACT CONCERNING AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

Be it enacted, 4*c., as folloios :

So much of the funds of incorporated agricultural societies as shall be
invested in real estate, buildings and appurtenances, for the use and
accommodation of said societies, shall be held to be so invested as to
entitle them to receive the bounty of the Commonwealth, in the same
manner as if put at interest, as provided in the first section of the forty-
second chapter of the Revised Statutes. [May 18, 1852.]

APPENDIX. 781

CHAPTER 142. — 1852.

AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Be it enacted, 4*c., as follows :

Sect. 1. A State Board of Agriculture is hereby established, to
consist of His Excellency the Governor, His Honor the Lieutenant
Governor, and Secretary of State, ex officiis ; of one member from each
of the agricultural societies in the Commonwealth, that receives an
annual bounty from the State, and of three members to be appointed
by the Governor and Council. Said members shall hold their offices
for three years, except as hereinafter provided ; and the Governor and
Council, and the agricultural societies as aforesaid, shall, within sixty
days after the passage of this act, appoint said members ; and after-
ward whenever vacancies shall occur.

Sect. 2. At the first meeting of this Board, appointed as aforesaid,
and called by His Excellency the Governor, the three members ap-
pointed by the Governor and Council, and the members from the agri-
cultural societies as aforesaid, shall be divided into three equal classes,
as near as may be, and the term of office of the first class shall expire
on the first Wednesday of February, in the year 1854; the second
class on the first Wednesday of February, in the year 1855 ; and the
third class on the first Wednesday of February, in the year 1856.
The expiration of each class shall be determined by lot by the whole
Board, and the vacancies thus created shall be filled by the Governor
and Council, and by the respective agricultural societies in which such
vacancy may occur.

Sect. 3. It shall be the duty of this Board to investigate all such
subjects relating to improvement in agriculture in this Commonwealth,
as they may think proper ; and they are hereby empowered to take,
hold in trust, and exercise control over any donations or bequests that
may be made to them for promoting agricultural education, or the gen-
eral interests of husbandry.

Sect. 4. The Board of Agriculture shall meet at the State House
in Boston, at le .st once in each year, and as much oftener as they may
deem expedient ; and they are hereby empowered to employ a suitable
person to act as Secretary of the Board, and to prescribe and deter-
mine his duties ; but all the duties of the Secretary of the Common-
wealth, relating to returns of agricultural societies, shall be performed
by the Secretary of the Board of Agriculture ; and all reports and
returns now required by law to be made by said societies, shall be

782 APPENDIX.

made and returned to the Secretary of this Board. The Governor and
Council shall determine his compensation, which compensation shall not
exceed the sum of fifteen hundred dollars per annum ; but no member
of the Board shall receive any compensation for his services from the
Commonwealth, except for personal expenses when engajred in the
duties of the Board. And the said Board shall, annually, on or before
the fourth Wednesday of January, by their chairman or secretary, sub-
mit to the legislature a detailed report of their doings, with such recom-
mendations and suggestions as in their view the interests of agriculture
may require.

Sect. 5. All laws inconsistent with this act are hereby repealed.

Sect. 6. This act shall take effect from and after its passage.
[April 21, 1852.]

CHAPTER 127. — 1853.

AN ACT IN RELATION TO AGRICULTUIIAL SOCIETIES.

Be it enacted, ^'C., as foUoios :

Sect. 1. The returns now required by law to be made by the sev-
eral agricultural societies on or before the tenth day of January, shall
hereafter be made on or before the tenth day of December in each year.

Sect. 2. The Board of Agriculture is hereby authorized to regulate
the returns required of the different agricultural societies, prescribe
forms, and furnish to the secretary of each society such blanks as said
Board may deem necessary to secure uniform and reliable statistics.

Sect. 3. No agricultural society shall be entitled to receive any
portion of the bounty of the Slato, unless it has complied fully with the
regulations established by the Board of Agriculture, and made all the
returns required by law. [April 8, 1853.]

CHAPTER 312. — 1853.

AN ACr TO RESULATE AGRICULTURAL, IIORTICU-LTURAL AND .
ORNAMENTAL TREE ASSOCIATIONS.

Be it enacted, 8fC., asfollotvs :

Any ten or more persons in any county, town, or city, within the
State, who shall, by agreement in writing, associate for the purpose of
encouraging agriculture, horticulture, or improving and ornamenting

APPENDIX. 783

the streets and public squares of any city or town, by planting and cul-
tivating ornamental trees therein, may become a corporation by such
name as they shall assume therefor, by calling their first meeting and
being organized, in the manner provided in the forty-first chapter of the
Revised Statutes for the incorporation of the proprietors of social libra-
ries and lyceums ; and every such association, upon becoming a corpo-
ration as aforesaid, shall have, during the pleasure of the legislature,
all the like rights, powers and privileges as the proprietors of such
libraries ; and may hold real and personal estate not exceeding ten
thousand dollars. [May 10, 185^.]

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