344 STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



That the plan of encouraging uniform programs by means of a text 

 book is meeting with favor is shown by the call so far this year for 

 upwards of 400 copies of the work on practical agriculture. 



The legislative department has urged measures advocated by State 

 Grange upon the legislature as in former years. It notes with particular 

 satisfaction the almost complete extension of rural mail deliveries over 

 the lower peninsula as a direct result of Grange legislative work in the 

 past and points to it as an example of the fact the farmers' organiza- 

 tions benefit even those who do not directly associate themselves as 

 members of any societv. 



JENNIE BUELL, 



Secretary State Grange. 



STATE ASSOCIATION OF FARMERS' CLUBS. 



Another cycle has been measured off since our last report. The past 

 year has been one of growth in the Farmers' Club movement. Many new 

 clubs have been organized, a few have fallen by the wayside. The mem- 

 bership of the clubs is increasing, and a greater variety of topics are 

 being discussed, showing that farmers are waking up somewhat. There 

 is still room at the top, and every effort should be put forth to reach 

 the summit and then occupy it. 



There is an imperative demand for a closer union, greater harmony 

 among the farmers. For ages precedent has been adverse to organization 

 among the rural population ; and it is not the easiest thing in the world 

 to form an organization in the country, let alone maintaining it. 



Agriculturists as a class seem to be opposed to organization; look 

 around you; what percentage are members of a farmers' organization? 

 About one in ten. 



The farmers that are members of the Farmers' Club and Grange form 

 but a small proportion of the people of this State, yet the influence they 

 wield is vastly superior to the combined efforts of the great majority 

 outside. Wherein lies the difference? One is organized effort, the other 

 unorganized. 



Think not that I disparage the work being accomplished by Farmers' 

 organizations. By no means. They are doing a grand work ; only we 

 want to do more. Bring more into the present clubs and granges, and 

 organize and organize, until not one shall be outside the fold. Good 

 work is being accomplished all along the line, but we must not be con- 

 tent to let well enough be good enough. Regardless of what has been 

 accomplished, what is being accomplished, there is a greater work to be 

 done than has been or is being accomplished. Farmers must wake up 

 to the fact that every line of business except farming is organized, and 

 organized thoroughly for the protection and benefit financially of its 

 members. Let the farmers do the same. If we do not look out for our 

 interests no one will for us. 



The world is advancing, and advancing rapidly along every line of busi- 

 ness. Can the farmer afford to stand still? Can the farmer in this ad- 



