318 Memorial to the Legislature 



A better statistical knowledge of the State than the present 

 might be obtained, and its wealth and resources become known 

 and appreciated as well by the government as the people at 

 large. 



But above all bj means of these societies, and the premiums 

 distributed by them, beneficial experiments may be exhibited in 

 every part of the State, which will have a grearer effect in over- 

 coming prejudices than the most conclusive reasoning. 



There is not a farmer, who is worthy of the name that does 

 not feel in passing the field or herd of his. neighbour, excelling 

 his own, a new incentive to industry and improvement ; — he may 

 not envy his neighbour, but he will endeavour to emulate him; 

 — instruction and aid are at hand, and cheerfully given : thus 

 a laudable emulation between individuals and counties will be 

 promote«l, and each by common consent will be advancing the 

 prosperity of the commonwealth. 



Pennsylvania is peculiarly calculated for an agricultural State, 

 as well by her fertile soil as temperate seasons. 



The North and the South have often looked to her as their gra- 

 nary, and have beeii fed out of the abundance of her stores. But 

 the surrounding States are now making rapid strides in agricul- 

 tural improvements. 



The spirit has been awakened by the powerful influence of 

 agricultural societies, patronised by their most distinguished 

 men. 



In the western parts of the State of New York, Societies have 

 been formed, and by the judicious distribution of premiums have 

 excited an emulation which is daily bringing into action the re- 

 sources of our powerful neighbour. 



Virginia is not idle ; the late Presidents Jefferson and Madi- 

 son, together with other distinguished citizens, have taken an 

 interest in the promotion of agricultural societies, and there- 

 by given a spring to improvement, which is spreading it over the 

 State. 



In the State of Delaware, an Agricultural Society was incor- 

 porated at the last session of the Legislature, which has already 

 gone into operation, and distributed its premiums. 



The proceedings in these States are noticed to shew the spi- 

 rit of improvement which prevails there, and the benefits produced 

 by their societies. 



