418 EXPERIMENT STATION RECORD. 



hundred and fifteen of hogs (barrows), and six hundred and seventy- 

 nine of horses. This was aside from the entries for prizes offered by 

 the breeding associations and other specials, and does not include the 

 carload lots shown in the yards, which nearly doubled the number of 

 cattle. The number of entries in some of the classes was exception- 

 ally large and the competition very sharp. So even were the indi- 

 viduals in some classes that the finest discrimination of the judges 

 was called for, slight differences determining the prize winners. 



The cattle were stabled in wings adjoining the arena, and the horses, 

 sheep, and swine in nearby buildings. The accommodations for the 

 stock were comfortable, and reduced the element of danger from 

 exposure to a minimum. The excellent provision made for the con- 

 duct of this exposition and the comfort of the visitors, together with 

 the apparent smoothness which characterized the events of the week, 

 reflects great credit upon the management and the officials in charge of 

 the various departments. 



The importance of this great show as an educational event is coming 

 to be more appreciated every year. It brings together the finest 

 specimens of horses, cattle, sheep, and certain classes of swine, repre- 

 senting many types and breeds, to compete for prizes offered by the 

 exposition and the breeders' associations. Such an aggregation is not 

 to be seen anywhere else in the country, perhaps in the world. Natur- 

 ally a large number of representative breeders and stockmen of the 

 country attend the show to compare notes with their colleagues and 

 competitors, and to keep track of developments in their lines, as well 

 as for business purposes. But what is quite as important, the show 

 now attracts thousands of farmers and stockmen from all over the 

 country, who go there to learn and to have their ideals developed. 

 This perhaps constitutes its greatest value and influence. There is 

 no question that it has stimulated interest in better stock, and already 

 raised the standard of many farmers and stockmen. The result is felt 

 in a larger demand for thoroughbred animals for breeding purposes, 

 and in closer and more intelligent discrimination in buying grades 

 and crosses. 



A man must first know and be able to appreciate the good points of 

 an animal, and to weigh their relative value in determining excellence, 

 before he can be in position to improve the stock which he keeps or 

 breeds. Such a display of animals as is presented for his inspection 

 in the show ring, and judged by experts before his eyes, is an incom- 

 parable opportunity for studying types and degrees of excellence as 

 determined by the judges. Add to this the chance to inspect the ani- 

 mals leisurely at close range in the stables, to learn their breeding and 

 records, and to meet with some of the leading breeders and importers 

 of stock, and the advantages of this show to the practical stockman 



