182 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



where the address was delivered by Ex-Governor rBoutwell, 

 which was a well written and instructive address. The reports 

 of committees were then read, and the premiums delivered to 

 the several successful competitors. 



Although this society have had considerable difficulty in 

 getting funds and their act of incorporation, I understand that 

 they are now clear of debt, and bid fair to take a prominent 

 place among the other societies of the State. 



Charles K. Tracy. 



EASTERN HAMPDEN. 



Agreeably to appointment by the Massachusetts State Board 

 of Agriculture, I attended the annual exhibition- and cattle 

 show of the Eastern Hampden Agricultural Society, held at 

 Palmer on the 4th and 5th days of October. 



The cattle and horses were shown upon a beautiful lot of 

 land which had been recently purchased by a party of public- 

 spirited gentlemen, designed to be used as a trotting park and 

 pleasure grounds, the track of half a mile in circumference at 

 the time being in process of completion. 



The first day was devoted to the general exhibition of cattle 

 and the ploughing match ; the ploughing was well done, but 

 the number of teams engaged was quite too small; more interest 

 should be taken in this department. 



The exhibition of working cattle and town teams of oxen 

 was very creditable to this young society, as one hundred and 

 fifty-two yoke of oxen were shown, the town of Wilbraham 

 taking the first premium, sending seventy-two yoke of cattle ; 

 Monson and Brimfield were also well represented. 



A fine display of young stock was made, including steers, 

 bulls, calves and heifers ; the farmers here are taking the best 

 course to obtain good stock by raising their own, and selecting 

 the best. 



Of swine there was some good animals. One sow, owned by 

 Hon. Cyrus Knox, appeared a superior animal, being large size 

 and well made, admirably calculated to cross with the Suffolk. 



