176 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



This State Horticultural Societj- holds two meetings each year, one 

 of them a winter meeting, at which the discussion of general topics is 

 indulged in. The election of ofticers and a general management of the 

 Society is conducted. We hold our summi-r meeting out in different parts 

 of the State with some local society, upon their invitation, and it is upon 

 the invitation of the Society of .Johnson County that we are here today. 



Horticulture in its broadest sense includes much more than we prob- 

 ably at first comprehend. In the first place, we have the branch called 

 pomology, which includes the growth and production of the larger 

 fruits, the apple, peach, plum, etc. This is probably the leading branch 

 of horticulture as we find it in this State. 



Then we have another branch, garden culture, which includes the 

 growth of small fruits, vegetables and all kinds of garden products. This 

 is also a large industry in our State, especially near our towns and vil- 

 lages. We find it is increasing in the southern part of the State, where 

 the larger part of the products are now being shipped to northern markets. 

 This comes second under the general head of horticulture. 



Then we have floriculture, a most profitable business for horticultur- 

 ists in many parts of the State, and it is an important matter in every 

 home. Not only the farmer's home, but the dwellers of our villages and 

 cities are interested, or should be interested, in the growing of flowers. 

 This is something that all are somewhat interested in. We like to see the 

 long, expansive lawn in front of our residences fittingly set to beds of 

 flowers. There is nothing that gives the setting to our homes as well: 

 it gives you an idea of refinement, beauty, fitness, as you approach the 

 home. 



We make this summer meeting an observation meeting. We come 

 here not only to discuss things of local importance, but to get ob ect les- 

 sons as well. We hope to get something that we can take home and profit 

 from in the future. This meeting not only includes the discussion of 

 topics of interest from those who attend, but we expect to learn from the 

 environment. 



We accept the kindly words of Mayor Dixon and will make ourselves 

 at home while we are in Franklin and Johnson County. We rest assin-ed 

 we will try and carry away with us as much information as will probably 

 be imparted to the people living in this vicinity. 



I believe now, without any further remarks, we will get down to busi- 

 ness. We have quite a lengthy program before us. We must be prompt. 

 If you have any questions to ask, address them to the Secretary or speaker 

 who address you. All are cordially invited to take part in our proceed- 

 ings. We will get down to our program at once, and proceed first with tht- 

 roll call, 



