14 AGRICULTURE OF MAINE. 



most barns without rebuilding the whole barn, or spending a 

 small fortune to build a new one. 



Sunlight is the great disinfectant and cleanser of nature. 

 Direct sunlight is sure death to all kinds of germs. It is claimed 

 that direct sunlight will kill the growing tuberculosis germ in 

 10 minutes. A building in which the sun shines freely, fur- 

 nishes a healthful place in which to keep animals, and a cheerful 

 place in which to work. Glass is cheap. Cut holes into the 

 side of the old barn, set in window frames and glass sash. 

 Windows will not cost more than they will return each year in 

 the health and vigor of the animals. Therefore it is economy 

 to let in the light. 



Furthermore, light shows the dirt. It is easy to keep a light 

 barn clean. It appeals to the pride of the owner. It is worth 

 all it costs in pleasure derived. A clean, light, healthful barn, 

 with happy, well-fed, contented cows, fills a farmer with pride 

 and satisfaction. It pays to let in the light. 



If the windows are made about three feet square, or so as to 

 measure eight square feet at least, there should be half as many 

 windows ai there are ties in the stable. In other words there 

 should be a w^indow containing eight square feet of glass for 

 every other cow. It is better to have a large number of medium 

 sized windows than to have a few large windows. The smaller 

 ones distribute the light better and are more useful for venti- 

 lating purposes. If the ceiling of the barn is low, the windows 

 will work better for ventilating purposes if they are made 2x4, 

 and set the long way, horizontal, in the wall ; or for convenience 

 of handling they may be made 2x3 and set closer together. 

 If the stable can only be lighted from one side, as is frequently 

 the case, then windows from 21-2 to 3 feet in height should 

 extend along the whole side of the barn, set as closely together 

 as possible, only leaving room between windows for posts. 



It is possible to have a light barn and yet have poor ventila- 

 tion. A close over-heated tie-up, and one that is cold and 

 draughty are both objectionable. The value of fresh air can- 

 not be over-estimated, but its admission to the barn, especially 

 in our cold northern winters, should be properly controlled. 

 The danger is that we will shut the barn up too closely in an 

 attempt to keep out the cold. Air that has been breathed over 



