SEVENTEENTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART V 347 



crossing of the various lines. These special trains were conducted 

 in a manner to create an interest in dairjdng and prepared the way 

 for more detailed information in the localities visited. 



During the year ending November 1, 1916, representatives of the 

 association met 231 audiences in 66 counties. The records of at- 

 tendance show that 42,900 people were reached. Of the 231 audi- 

 ences, 42 were in attendance at farmers' institutes, 46 at dairy and 

 creamery meetings, and the remaining 119 at meetings conducted 

 by the dairy association directly. 



A special dairy train was operated over the Illinois Central Rail- 

 road lines and every town sufficiently interested to assist in making 

 arrangements was included in the itinerary. The equipment of 

 this train included two baggage cars which w^ere used to carry spe- 

 cimens of the leading dairy breeds and exhibits of dairy products, 

 dairy machinery, charts, diagrams, etc. The special equipment as 

 in previous years was furnished by the railroad to the Association 

 without charge. 



Half day or full day meetings were held at each town. In addi- 

 tion to the regular lecture work, community dairy shows, boys' and 

 girls' judging contests, milk record contests, etc., were conducted. 



THE COMMUNITY DAIRY SHOWS. 



The community dairy shows which were established the previous 

 winter were again conducted at every meeting where satisfactory 

 arrangements could be made to secure the animals necessary for 

 the work. 



The business men at each town co-operated in making the show a 

 success and offered attractive cash and merchandise prizes for the 

 best animals exhibited. The dairymen and leading farmers in the 

 communities also gave considerable of their time in encouraging 

 their neighbors to exhibit cattle. All breeds of cattle used for milk 

 production, whether grades or i)ure breds, were entered, which 

 gave an excellent opportunity for comparison of the various types. 



The shows were held in a lumber yard or livery stable which 

 afforded the best place obtainable to stable the animals and furnish 

 shelter for the audience as well. The programs were opened by 

 leading the best cows into the ring and using them to demonstrate 

 ihe essential characteristics of good productive dairy type. Ques- 

 tions were then called for and discussions held in which all were 

 invited to participate. 



