STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. (i^J 



prices the lowest, while at the same time we have a grand 

 reputation in the foreign market that Maine apples sell from 

 two to three shillings per barrel more than apples of other New 

 England states. Gentlemen, do not be discouraged, but rather 

 take courage. Think no longer that Maine is a good place to 

 emigrate from, for we have as good soil, as good a climate, and 

 can enjoy God's blessing on our paternal acres, dotted over 

 with fruit trees and vines bearing fruit not excelled by any state 

 in the Union. 



Most of the old landmarks or pioneers of these ancient 

 gatherings of which I have mentioned have crossed over the 

 river, but their record which is left us is a bright spot upon the 

 page of history; and the generations that follow, will look back 

 with pride upon its ancestry. 



I see before me some of those men who started with this 

 society and who having put their hand to the plow never turn 

 back but have looked steadily forward to the goal for which this 

 society was formed. May they feel that their labors have not 

 been in vain, but that the knowledge imparted by this society 

 has been a blessing to mankind and will continue to the end of 

 time. 



The first president of this society, Hon. Z. A. Gilbert, one of 

 Maine's most practical agriculturists, "the farmers' friend." 

 We remember him as the efficient secretary of the State Board 

 of Agriculture for many years, always laboring for the good of 

 the people. Holding the interests of the farmers of Maine, 

 entrusted to his care, as sacred as his own. Always looking 

 forward for their prosperity and happiness. Long may he be 

 spared to give us words of counsel and wisdom. 



As citizens of the town of Winthrop we thank you for the 

 honor conferred in holding this winter meeting of your society 

 with us; and in return we assure you that everything will be 

 done to make this meeting one of the best ever held in the 

 State, and that your stay with us be pleasant and remembered. 



