HISTORY AND ORIGIN OF THE 

 AMERICAN HOUND. 



The origin and early history of the American 

 hound is clouded somewhat in mystery. 



It is generally understood they were imported 

 from England, but exactly when, and by whom, 

 we have no authentic record. 



While believing they are largely descended 

 from the English hound, there is no doubt in my 

 mind that the French hound plays equally as im- 

 portant part in their origin. Lafayette sent 

 over a large pack of French hounds, this be- 

 ing really the first pack of hounds we have any 

 record of as having been imported into the United 

 States as a pack, though individual hounds had 

 been previously imported from England. 



If we can rely upon shape, conformation, 

 hound characteristics, and general appearance, 

 then we are indebted more to the French than 

 the English hound for our orginal stock. I have 

 seen many packs of hounds in different parts of 

 France that certainly resembled our old-time, na- 

 tive black and tan, long-eared, long-headed, high- 

 peaked, deep-mouthed hounds, much more than 

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