PROGRESS IN FRUIT CULTURE. 11 



their part to use their influence to promote the interest of the 

 fair, at the same time our society was to receive the entire pro- 

 ceeds. The union of horticulture with agriculture gave a new 

 impulse to the society, and the exhibition proved very success- 

 ful in creating a new interest, as well as in a pecuniary point of 

 view. Our society received quite an addition to its funds, and 

 from that time horticulture has been quite an important part 

 of the exhibition. 



I wish here to notice the influence which has been exerted, 

 in advancing the interest of horticulture and floriculture by the 

 example of the late Hon. James Arnold of New Bedford. What 

 little taste and passion I ever had in these branches, was first 

 created by visiting his beautiful garden, and there meeting the 

 proprietor, who seemed to take as much delight in exhibiting 

 the beautiful, as I could in witnessing. From that time I re- 

 solved, if life and means were granted me, I would one day 

 enjoy a like treasure and afford to others the happiness I then 

 enjoyed. 



It is but a few years, since there was much taste manifested 

 for fruits and flowers in this part of our State. I cannot call to 

 mind a solitary garden, until within thirty years, where a green- 

 house or a grapery could be found, or where you could find a 

 pear orchard. Apple-trees have always been abundant, and 

 cider a favorite beverage from time immemorial. "We have now 

 in various parts of our county many thrifty and flourishing pear 

 orchards, and in many instances they are becoming a source of 

 income to the proprietor. Almost every family is desirous of 

 planting a few fruit-trees as an appendage to the dwelling. 

 Many persons are turning their attention to the cultivation of 

 grapes, with much promise. 



I could speak of the success which has attended the cultiva- 

 tion of peaches, and any man, at quite a small expense, can be 

 assured of an abundant crop. My peach house for twenty years 

 has been in successful operation, and has never failed in a 

 single year. They are more easy to be managed and at much 

 less expense than grapes. The quality depends, in a great 

 measure, upon giving them free air and a genial sun. 



The success which has attended the cultivation of foreign 

 grapes is well known to many present, and as to the quality, I 

 hope to have the pleasure of submitting that to your judgment. 



