1892.] FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY. 37 



obscure corner with the crazy quilts and other fancy work of 

 the ladies. 



Thus does history repeat itself. 



The first exhibition of the new organization was held on the 

 13th, 14th and 15th of October, 1840, the 14th being " cattle 

 show day." 



The National JEgis for October 14th, 1840, says: 



" The Brst exhibition of fruits and flowers by the Worcester 

 Horticultural Society commenced on yesterday at the South 

 Town Hall. 



" The Society was formed by a few individuals who were 

 desirous of aiding with their efforts in the improvement of the 

 cultivation of the orchards and gardens and who wished to con- 

 tribute by such means as were in their power for the common 

 benefit. 



" The possibility of making a good exhibition was doubted by 

 many. The undertaking was considered as hopeless by some ; 

 and was openly opposed by two individuals alone ; but it went 

 on without their help and against their influence. 



"Our citizens were not aware of the extent of their own 

 resources, nor of the generosity of those friends from abroad 

 who have contributed with a free-heartedness and liberality 

 beyond all expectation and above all praise which words can 

 convey. 



" The exhibition was opened on Tuesday morning and was as 

 magnificent as any which has ever before been held in New 

 England." 



On the fourth of July, 1841, an exhibition of fruits and 

 flowers was held. Strawberries, cherries and gooseberries were 

 exhibited. The principal cherries were the Black Tartarian, 

 Black Eagle, White Bigarreau and Black Heart. The varieties 

 of strawberry were Methven Castle, Alpine and Keen's 

 Seedling. 



The Annual Exhibition for 1841, was held on the 27th of 

 October. The report of Wm. N. Green, Chairman of the 

 Committee on Fruits, may be found in the Massachusetts Spy 

 of that date. During the winter of the succeeding year upon 

 the petition of the Society, an Act of Incorporation was passed 

 by the General Court and approved by the Governor, on the 3d 

 March, 1842. 



