262 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



HAMPSHIRE. 



From the Report of the Committee. 



Everywhere we observe the influence of the pure breeds mix- 

 ing together and blending the peculiar excellences of each with 

 the constitutional vigor and practical self-helpfulness of the 

 native. Everywhere we see promise of a class of cattle, "native 

 and to the manor born," which in varying proportions, and 

 according to the wants and conditions of different individuals 

 and sections, shall unite the size and symmetry of the Durham, 

 the deep milking qualities of the Ayrshire, the docility and 

 plumpness of the Devon, and the inherent faculty for butter 

 making of the cattle from the Channel Islands and Brittany. 



After as careful examination and as deliberate 'consideration 

 as time and the weather would admit, your committee have 

 awarded the first premium to Mr. Watson, and the second to Mr. 

 Hibbard. 



There were twenty-six entries of heifers of the leading breeds 

 and their grades. Every one of these young animals was deserv- 

 ing of high commendation, and collectively they bore eloquent 

 testimony to the growing interest in stock breeding. In num- 

 bers, the Shorthorns and their Grades took a decided lead ; while 

 the Ayrshires, Devons, Jerseys, and Guernseys, although fewer 

 in number and less in size, were equally remarkable for excel- 

 lence in the distinctive properties of their respective breeds. 



Among so many beauties, it is a disagreeable task to particu- 

 larize. Suffice it to say, that unmistakable promise of superior 

 milking qualities, united with large size and perfect symmetry, 

 the result of generations of skilful breeding, generous feeding 

 and unremitting care, decided us to award the first and second 

 to the Shorthorns of Messrs. Judd and Bates. The third pre- 

 mium was awarded to Mr. Chase, for the beautiful Ayrshire 

 heifer Cora 2d. The fourth to Mr. Edmund Smith, of Hadley, 

 for a very large Grade heifer of singular quality ; and the fifth to 

 Mr. Bates, for a yearling Shorthorn of surpassing beauty and 

 promise. 



No premiums were offered for heifers over three years old ; 

 but the extraordinary merit of Empress 3d and Yarico Beauty, 

 exhibited by Mr. Judd, induce us to commend them to the 

 executive committee, as fit subjects for special premiums. 



