Agriculture is the most Healthx and Honorable, as it is the most Natural and TJselul pursuit ol Man. 



VOL. X. 



ROCHESTER, N. Y. — AUGUST, 1849, 



NO. 8. 



IMPROVEMENT. -THE DUTY OF FARMERS. 



The spirit which animates our people, is that of 

 progress — improvement. Ever since the Declaration 

 of Independence, enterprise has been a distinguishing 

 trait of the American character — and at no period of 

 our nation's history have the skill and industry of our 

 population been more wisely and profitably employed 

 than at this moment. Look at the progress which 

 has been made during the past ten years — the im- 

 provements now being introduced into almost every 

 department of Agriculture and Manufactures, Trade 

 and Commerce — and consider the vast influence which 

 this rapid and mighty change must have upon the 

 destiny of our people and country! It is true that 

 this spirit does not wholly prevail, especially among 

 agriculturists; but the period is fast approaching 

 when those farmers who now stand aloof from the 

 aid of science, will be compelled to adopt the inven- 

 tions and improvements of the age, in order to com- 

 pete with the more shrewd and enterprising. For 

 example: If A, by the adoption of a superior mode 

 of culture and the use of labor-saving implements, 

 can produce 100 bushels of wheat at an expense of 

 $50, while the same number of bushels costs B $75, 

 it is clear that the latter cannot successfully or fair- 

 ly compete with the former, in the same market. — 

 And so also in the raising of stock, the growing of 

 wool, and the production of pork, butter, cheese, kc. 

 Those who produce these articles, at the least ex- 

 pense, will ever be the most successful in the accu- 

 mulation of wealth. 



Admitting the correctness of our premises, it is 

 the bounden duty of American farmers to adopt 

 every improvement within their reach — a duty which 

 they owe equally to themselves, their children, and 

 country. The responsibility which rests upon our 

 rural population, is one of great importance, and 

 from which none can shrink blamelessly. As the 

 motto of the age is " Onward,"' so also should be 

 that of individuals. Each and all should work, both 

 individually and collectively, for the advancement of 

 themselves and their profession. 



As an individual, the farmer can do much towards 

 the introduction of improvement in neighborhoods 

 and communities. By a careful study of his profes- 

 sion — the adoption of improved modes of culture and 

 management of crops and stock — the use of judi- 

 cious labor-saving implements, and a wise economy 

 in all branches of husba: dry — any fanner can arouse 

 a l&uduble spirit of inquiry, which must lead to 



improvement among those engaged in the same 

 calling in his immediate vicinity. But he can ac- 

 complish still more in another manner. By com- 

 municating the results of his well directed efforts to 

 the agricultural press, thousands, instead of dozens, 

 would be benefitted by a knowledge of his manage- 

 ment and success. The introduction of agricultu- 

 ral books and journals among his neghbors, will 

 likewise prove beneficial to community. 



In a collective capacity farmers can exert a power- 

 ful influence for improvement, and also promote their 

 individual interests. And here let us for a moment 

 consider the importance of Agricultural Associations, 

 as a means of improvement. Are not the State 

 and County Societies, now in operation, advancing 

 the true interests of the farmer? — And if so, is it 

 not all-important that these associations be well 

 sustained, and others organized throughout the coun- 

 try? We think every intelligent reader will answer 

 these questions affirmatively; and we beg to sug- 

 gest that they have a duty to perform in this mat- 

 ter. It may truly be said of many farmers, concern- 

 ing this as well as various other subjects, which 

 demand their attention, that 



" They know the right, and they approve it too, 

 Condemn the wrong, and still the wrong pursue." 



They admit the benefits of association, but year 

 after year decline or neglect to become active, in- 

 terested members of the Societies and clubs in their 

 localities. Friends, we respectfully but plainly re- 

 mark that you are not discharging your duty in this 

 matter — and beg you to consider whether some ac- 

 tion is not necessary. The present is a favorable 

 time for exertion in the direction indicated. The 

 annual exhibitions of the various associations are 

 to be held soon, and your aid and influence would 

 add to their interest and value. No matter if you 

 have nothing to exhibit this year— go and see what 

 others have accomplished. Attend the Fair of your 

 County Society, and you will not fail of learning 

 something useful while mingling with others of the 

 same calling and witnessing an exhibition of the 

 products of their skill and labor— and do not forget 

 to enrol yourself as a regular, paying member of the 

 association. In this manner you can essentially aid 

 in promoting the laudable objects in view. 



There are various other means of improvement 

 familiar to the intelligent farmer, that should neither 

 be neglected or overlooked by those who desire to 

 keep pace with the progressive spirit of the age. 



