308 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



Mr. Howland: I notice that the slips request us to state the date 

 when we joined the Society. I can not remember, and perhaps a number 

 of tlie members can not remember when they joined. Would it not be 

 better to consult the lists for this information? 



President Stevens: You might retain the slips until you can secure 

 this information. 



First Vice-President Davis was called to the chair while the President 

 read his annual address. 



PRESIDENT'S ANNUAL ADDRESS. 



HON. W. W. STEVENS, SALEM. 



To the Members of the State Horticultural Society: 



Once more we have come together in annual session for the purpose 

 of deliberation and consultation as to the wants, prospects and conditions 

 of the horticultural interests throughout the State. 



It is always pleasant for persons having a common object and mutual 

 interest in view to meet together at regular intervals, exchange social sal- 

 utations and consult with regard to the best methods of promoting that 

 common object and interest. 



As we look abou us we find that those who are engaged in profes- 

 sional or industrial pursuits of various Ivinds have their associations and 

 oi-ganizations for mutual advancement, and in view of this fact it be- 

 hooves us to unite in some sort of combined effort to advance the horti- 

 cultural interests of the State. Avhen so much of the heallh, wealth and 

 happiness of the commonwealth is dependent upon this industry. 



Association is the origin and impulse of all progress. The elements 

 of everj' depaiinient of society have their expansion and maturity under 

 the vital power of this great principle. When its object is to benefit man- 

 kind in general, it is to be commended. While no injury could or would 

 result to any other class of individuals by the upbuilding of our horti- 



« 



cultural interests, the organization should be encouraged and advanced 

 in every way possible. 



We need not only a stronger and more efficient State organization, 

 but county and local societies should be encouraged wherever horticul- 

 ture can be made profitable. It is to be regretted that there isn"t at least 

 one good local organization in every county in the State, with a repre- 

 sentative at our annual meetings. 



