312 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



erly belonging in this department, and presented a scene of dazzling beauty, which 

 the vast throng of visitors viewed with much satisfaction. The track, which was 

 in fine order, did not fail to attract the attention of lovers of sport. Hotly con- 

 tested trials of speed took place each afternoon. 



Everything considered, the fair of 1884 was a succees. Other improvements are 

 needed, and will no doubt engage the attention of the management of the coming 

 year. 



The association, although only two years old, is in a pfosperous condition. Sur- 

 rounded as we are by one of the most fertile and productive sections of country to 

 be found anywhere, we feel that, with prudent management, no fears need be 

 apprehended of our future success. The association is composed of nearly two 

 hundred stockholders, among whom are farmers, mechanics, and business men of 

 all kinds. All premiums have been paid in full. No games of chance were 

 allowed on the grounds, and no intoxicating beverages were sold on or near the 

 grounds. Little or no drunkenness was observed, no arrests made and no occasion 

 for any. At the yearly meeting, December Ist, the old officers were re-elected by 

 acclamation. J. S. Conlogue, 



Secretary. 



THE FAIRMOUNT UNION. 



The P^airmount Union Joint Stock Agricultural Association held its first annual 

 fair, on their grounds adjacent to the town of Fuirmount, on the 9th, 10th, 11th 

 and 12th of September, 1884, and was, in nearly all respects, a complete success. 

 In fact, no one went away diss>ati.«fied, and the remark wan frequently heard, " that 

 this is a young Stale fair." The organizing of the society was of quick growth, 

 commencing early in the spring of 1884. The nect ssary amount of stock ($8,000), 

 was a.ssured, and preparations were at onco made to push the matter, that nothing 

 should be uudoiie when the time should coiue for the annual fair. The grounds 

 comprise thirty acres, alongside the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Railroad, par- 

 ticularly suited for the purpose, enough shade for all purposes, and excellent water 

 in abundance from three 50 feet wells. 



Our improvementi", in part, consists in one hundred and fifty box and open 

 stalls for hor.ses and cattle; sheep and hogpens sufficient, with covers and floors. 

 A large Floral Hall, Agricultural Hall and poultry-house. All these improve- 

 ments were thought by some to be excessive, but the display at the fair decided the 

 case contrary to their views. All deficiencies will be remedied by the time of the 

 next exhibition. The track was in fine condition and commented on by old drivers 

 as being the best new track within their knowledge. No horses went away lame or 

 damaged. 



The fence surrounding the grounds is an open one, the pickets being of pine 

 fencing boards, seven and one-half feet long, set three inches apart. This is 

 thought to be an improvement over the o'.d tight fence, as it admits free circulation 

 of air, stands the wind better, has a n?at appearance, and costs much less money. 



