AMERICAN INSTITUTE. 15 



from the various States of our Union, and we may safely say that 

 over three times that number were personally approached in ref- 

 erence to making exhibitions at the fair. 



We may here remark, that not only have the number of our 

 exhibiters increased, but in each article exhibited we find an 

 increase of genius and skill. Few, yes, very few, of the exhibi- 

 ters were contented to exhibit an article previously exhibited ; and 

 unless presenting some intrinsic merit, the board were as reluc- 

 tant to give them space. 



The exhibition of agricultural implements, for novelty and 

 utility, we say without hesitation, has never been equalled. 



The pomological display, containing the contributions of seve- 

 ral pomological societies of other States, (considering the general 

 dearth of fruit during the last fall,) was well worthy the com- 

 mendation it constantly received from those capable of forming a 

 judgment as to its merits. 



And the agricutural and horticultural departments far sur- 

 passed any previous exhibition of the Institute. 



We were pleased to find the great interest taken in naval archi- 

 tecture ; over 150 specimens were exhibited, and an examination 

 Avould satisfy the most skeptical that we still have the genius, 

 though not the counsel, of a Steers. 



The display of domestic manufactures was not equal to the 

 previous year, owing to the general depression of trade in that 

 branch of industry. Yet small, nevertheless we secured a very 

 choice exhibition. 



The exhibition of mechanical manufactures far exceeded any 

 previous exhibition. 



Three steam engines, varying from thirty to eighty horse pow- 

 er, were the motive power provided, with the additional engine 

 erected last 3^ear, from the manufactory of Messrs. Corliss & Night- 

 ingale. Auxilliary engines were erected on the north and south 

 sides of the palace, of five and eight horse poAver, to furnish 

 motion for the competing bread-mixing and baking machines. 



The display of machinery was so varied and large as to occupy 

 almost half of the main floor. 



And we cannot pass without noticing the great perfection dis- 

 played in the arrangement and construction of the fire engines 

 built for the fire department of this and adjoining cities. 



The photographic art, wonderful as it is, creates new wonders 

 by the improvements made from year to year. The display this 

 3'ear may well be called the perfection of the art. 



