294 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



only as are best adapted to the purposes for wliicli tliey are 

 wanted. 



Much mismanagement and misunderstanding have hitherto 

 existed in regard to tliis most necessary department of hus- 

 bandry. Hence the bad results which have accrued from the 

 indiscriminate crossing of what are termed native stock with 

 blood or grade animals, without regard to their distinctive 

 qualities. For instance, to cross a common cow with the Ayr- 

 shire bull — her progeny with a Durham — this with a Hereford — 

 and again, perhaps with a compound of all these bloods — would 

 be a retrograde movement, rather than any definite approach 

 towards the object to be attained. 



It may then be considered as one of the most important 

 elements of success to breed from pure blood animals. Appro- 

 priate treatment and proper food are of great consequence ; 

 but it is not so much to these that we are indebted, as to the 

 peculiar tendencies of the race from which we desire to raise 

 stock. The desideratum which we should seek to supply is the 

 breed which possesses certain properties, whether for the dairy, 

 the stall, or the yoke. 



To " breed directly in the line," is now admitted to be the 

 best, if not the only safe method for the improvement and 

 perpetuation of the blood ; and in all cases from pure blood on 

 one side, and if possible from the male. The best animals of 

 the class desired should be selected, and, following down in a 

 direct line, the purity of the offspring should be maintained, 

 only changing occasionally from one family (not breed) to 

 another, to preserve vigor of constitution. 



The chairman of the committee, having expressed the above 

 views, would recommend to the farmers of Norfolk County to 

 dispense, as far as practicable, with bulls of a nondescript 

 character, and to avail themselves of such as are known to be 

 of pure blood, — confining themselves to the class which may be 

 best adapted to their own locality or purpose. Maturity and 

 good constitution should be sought for in the dam, in which 

 case, although the male be young, if healthy and vigorous, her 

 progeny will be more affected with the general character of the 

 breed to which he belongs than with his size or age. 



Marshall P. Wilder, Chairman, 



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