154 WISCONSIN AGEICULTUEE. 



determine the practice of the farmer, and induce a practical im- 

 provement in the system of farming. As it now is, many of 

 the experiments which are made, are not made with sufficient 

 accuracy to merit general confidence, and those which are well 

 made are seldom accompanied with such authority as to com- 

 mand public respect. Science alone can elevate labor to the 

 dignity which it merits, and give to the husba,ndman that success 

 which the greatest welfare of society demands. But, we must 

 take things as they are, and endeavor to improve our system of 

 farming, our stock-growing, and all the kindred branches as best 

 we may, with the facilities we have. 



Five years ago this Society was brought into existence, through 

 the exertions of men who had the interest of the State, and 

 especially of Rock county, at heart. It was an experiment. 

 Some thought it impracticable in this new country. Having 

 seen the rise and fall of such societies in the older States, where 

 government gave no support, they could see no clear forebodings 

 of success in this new country in the far West. If the State of 

 E"ew York has to give each county annually $180 for premium 

 money, how can we expect to succeed without help? Nothing 

 doubting, those men moved on with a determined spirit. They 

 were men of faith and works, and most nobly have they shown 

 their faith by their works. Farmers and mechanics of Rock 

 county, it is your Society. It was projected by yourselves, and 

 its permanency and utility depends upon your conduct in the 

 future. With a zeal becoming enlightened and energetic men, 

 you have sustained and supported it thus far, and I doubt not, 

 impressed as you are with its importance, and the benefits accruing 

 to yourselves and the community, from its existence, you will 

 continue to lend it a helping hand. 



The day has gone by when it shall be necessary to convince 

 our people of the advantages of associations. Self-evident facts 

 are more potent and convincing than lucid arguments. It would 

 indeed be a loss of words in attempting to prove that there has 

 been an improvement in farming and stock-growing in this State, 

 and in this county, within the last two years, and since the or- 

 ganization of our Agricultural Societies. That we have better 



