SECRETARY'S REPORT. 209 



cultural Society has undertaken the experiment of introducing 

 a pure hlood stock, which shall become the stock of the island. 



This experiment was suggested to the society by the Secretary 

 of this Board, and as the society was receiving liberally of the 

 State bounty, they felt that some extra effort should be made, 

 by which it would be shown that the State bounty was not 

 thrown away by being bestowed upon this little county. And the 

 isolated situation of this district seemed to make such an idea 

 practicable. 



Accordingly, in May, 1863, the society took the initiatory steps 

 in this enterprise, by purchasing six thoroughbred Ayrshire 

 bulls. These bulls were selected with as great care and judg- 

 ment as the society was capable of exercising, assisted by Mr. 

 Flint, and others. These bulls were brought to the island 

 and located, two in each town, and the following circular was 

 distributed thoughout the island ; 



" The Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Society having in view 

 the necessity of a more perfect and uniform breed of cattle for 

 Dukes County, and one which presents in combination the most 

 desirable points and traits to be found, after investigating the 

 subject and having satisfied themselves in regard to the peculiar 

 characteristics of the different improved breeds, have selected 

 and purchased six thoroughbred Ayrshire bulls, and located 

 them as follows : * * * * * * 



" It is desirable that all should improve their stock of cattle. 

 The society offers the use of these bulls to the people of our 

 county, whether members of the society or not ; and, as the 

 object the society had in view when purchasing thoroughbred 

 stock would be defeated by breeding from grade bulls, those 

 having the use of the bulls will be required to come under 

 obligation to kill or castrate their bull-calves. 



" The Ayrshire stock will be found to be particularly well 

 adapted to our climate and feed. The cows are kind and 

 docile, and unsurpassed for milkers as regards both quality and 

 quantity of milk. The oxen are good workers, and attain to a 

 good size, and readily take on flesh while being prepared for the 

 shambles. As a select breed they are hardy, and thrive as well 

 or better than the native on the same feed. 



