88 ANNUAL REPOKT 



borders on 150 miles of its coast. The mean depth of the lake is 

 800 feet. 



Apples were raised in Minnesota in the first decade of her polit- 

 ical existence. More than this cannot be said of some of the older 

 northern states. It is said to be a general rule that where the wild 

 plum, white thorn, and wild rose flourish naturally the apple may 

 be successfully cultivated. 



Geographically and physically Minnesota pre-eminently com- 

 mands a position second to no interior state. Within our borders 

 we have commercial command of outlets to competing Atlantic 

 markets, an ample surplus of food to sustain a manufacturing pop- 

 ulation, an abundance of natural power, and we have large quanti- 

 ties of wood, stone, iron and copper, which may be converted into 

 useful articles. A geological map of the state shows at a glance 

 the various formations embraced within our territory, and brings 

 out prominently the physical characteristics of the different sec- 

 tions. It should be carefully studied by the fruit grower. 



IN CONCLUSION. 



I will not traspass further on your time; already I have gone 

 beyond the bounds of what I had intended. Somethings to which 

 perhaps I should direct attention will readily occur to mind. But 

 personal suggestions, or advice upon my part, would be almost 

 gratuitous, as well as out of place, with those who are so thoroughly 

 fitted by practical experience to give instruction in horticultural 

 affairs. 



Congratulating the Society upon its past achievements and wish- 

 ing all its officers and members prosperity, thanking one and all 

 sincerely for kind co-operation and sympathy in our work as secre- 

 tary, I bid you for the days to come a very hearty God speed. 



FINANCIAL REPORT OF SECRETARY. 



Following is a statement of receipts and disbursements by the 

 secretary for the year eudiDg January 20, 1890, as shown by item- 

 ized statement submitted: 



RECEIPTS. 



Membership fees $75 . 00 



Amount to balance 6 . 73 



Total $81 . 73 



DISBURSEMENTS. 



Miscellaneous expenses $ 1-50 



Postage stamps and cards 17 . 00 



Expressage and wrapping 17 . 98 



Printing 20.25 



Cash paid treasurer 25.00 



Total $81.75 



Respectfully submitted, 



S. D. HILLMAN, 



Secretary. 



