352 STATE BOARD OP AGRICULTURE. 



BOOTHS AND PRIVILEGES. 



This is undoubtedly one of the most vexatious departments to handle 

 connected with the society. It requires skill, tact and good business 

 judgment to handle this without friction and to make it a source of 

 revenue. The veteran superintendent, Mr. Dewey, should be congratulated 

 upon his successful handling of this department. 



BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. 



The buildings, with the exception of some small ones needed, were 

 ample and very well arranged. Check and toilet rooms should be ample 

 and convenient for visitors. The grand stand, while apparently large 

 enough, failed to supply the demand. A little change in way of privi- 

 leges will give the public who are willing to pay for seats an opportunity 

 to get one. 



The grounds proved to be large enough and quite convenient. I would 

 suggest that the plat in front of Howland Hall be kept free from booths 

 and teams, and the grounds provided with a large tent with seats. 



There should be a change made at entrance to dining hall, it being so 

 close to ticket office and entrance to grand stand. Ample provision 

 should be made to furnish eatables. 



POLICE. 



With the immense throng of people in attendance there was the best 

 of police protection. The department had the personal supervision of 

 the chief, assisted by a corps of experienced men. 



IN CONCLUSION. 



It is unnecessary to give any advice, as the members who have assisted 

 in its management are all competent. We are situated much different at 

 this time than we have been before in many years. The old craft that was 

 floating upon the rough sea of financial difficulties has been safely guided 

 by a brave, never-give-up set of business men; no deserters, no one jumped 

 overboard; all pulled steadily at the oars overcoming all kinds of diffi- 

 culties, until at last-she is moored at the door of that old Chief "Pontiac. 1 ' 



While regrets are expressed at the retirement of some of the old asso- 

 ciates at this time, we welcome the new members and trust that our rela- 

 tions will be both pleasant and profitable in the management of the 

 society's work. The place for holding the 1902 exhibition having been 

 settled. I trust the society will be successful in fixing dates that may 

 prove satisfactory. 



Last year I recommended the offering of special premiums for some 

 of the northern counties of the lower peninsula, and through the gener- 

 osity of the legislature, sanctioned by the Governor, the society was 

 enabled to carry it out. 



The exhibits that came from that portion of the State were of excel- 

 lent quality and very commendable. I hope the policy of the society 

 will continue to expand with liberal offerings until it shall reach every 

 agricultural and horticultural portion of the State, the fundamental 

 principle being to promote and encourage agriculture and its kindred arts. 



M. P. ANDERSON. 



