APPENDIX. xvii 



of this rocky range, whether formed during the drift-period or by 

 subsequent disintegration and abrasion, contains the minerals of the 

 micaceous, talcose, hornblende and gueiss rocks. By decomposi- 

 tion, an aluminous soil was produced, possessing fair supplies of iron, 

 soda, maguesia, lime and potash ; a soil which, in its primitive state, 

 was adapted to the production of sweet, nutritious grasses, and mak- 

 ing these hills and mountains good grazing-lands. But continued 

 and persistent grazing without cultivation and manuring, the mak- 

 ing and deportation of animal carcasses and products and the action 

 of water on the slopes and steep hill-sides for a hundred years, has 

 depicted the soil of the decomposed elements, and very materially 

 depreciated its producing power. Such is the general configuration 

 of this territory, — its broken, uneven and precipitous character, — the 

 soil strewn with immovable bowlders and checkered with ledge- 

 rocks, that it can be improved and brought back to a profitable state 

 of fertility only b}^ men of pluck, indomitable perseverance and 

 possessing an accurate knowledge of the fundamental principles of 

 soil-change and plant-growth. By observation and inquiry, I am 

 satisfied that such men are there, and at work, and that this agricult- 

 ural societ}' is stimulating and encouraging them in their arduous 

 labors. Whatever may be the condition of agriculture and agricult- 

 ural societies in the more favored portions of the Commonwealth, 

 the farmers on the mountains deserve, and the best interests of the 

 State require, that they and the societies that give them support 

 and encouragement should continue to receive its fostering care. 



Levi Stockbridge. 



HAMPDEN COUNTY. 



The Hampden County fair was held at Springfield, October 7th 

 and 8th, on the grounds of the Hampden Park Association, in that 

 city. The first day was so inclement that no exhibition could be 

 held, and in consequence the exercises were crowded into one 

 da}'. The display of cattle was highly creditable, there being the 

 herds of Ayrshires and Devons so wel known in that section of the 

 State, and excelleut specimens of Shorthorns. The cold wind which 

 had taken the place of the rainstorm was not conducive to the 

 good appearance of the animals exposed to it, but they gave evi- 

 dence of having been well-cared for, both in the pasture and the 

 stall, and thej' indicated good judgment in selection on the part of 

 the owners. The exhibition of carriage and draught horses was 

 excellent, and the display of poultry indicated a large and judi- 

 cious interest in this branch of a_riculture. 

 3 



