APPENDIX. xi 



with the products of the garden and the dairy, and with specimens 

 of many industries of the locality. It is impossible to enumerate 

 them here, but the ingenuity and skill devoted to many of these 

 articles of convenience are worthy of special notice. And the 

 specimens of female handiwork attracted, as they deserved, much 

 attention, botli on account of their admirable workmanshi]), and 

 on account of their indication of the industry and careful house- 

 wifery of those who made them. 



The exhibition was one of the few fairs now remaining conducted 

 on the old-fashioned system, and, Avith the exception of the hall, 

 open to all visitors. So far as the good effect upon the surrounding 

 agricultural community is concerned, there can be no doubt of tb'e 

 effect of this system. And it is refreshing to be reminded now and 

 then of that primitive mode which our fathers pursued when agri- 

 cultural investigation was in its infancy, and when an agricultural 

 fair was an economical rivalry for excellence in cattle, crops, culti- 

 vation and general husbandry. The enterprise manifested by this 

 young society in its first efforts promises well for the future. 

 Stepping out of the simple ways I have described, the trustees 

 have purchased grounds " upon which they can locate their fairs, 

 and have ample room for the exhibition of stock, produce and 

 mechanic arts." And there can be no doubt that the society, 

 situated as it is in an industrious and enterprising portion of our 

 CommonAvealth, Avill soon reach that standard of excellence which 

 its trustees desire, and which will stimulate all profitable agricul- 

 ture in the section which it covers. 



Geo. B. Loring. 



WORCESTER NORTH. 



The Worcester North Agricultural Society held its sixteenth 

 annual fair September 29th and 30th, 1868. Both days were good 

 for the occasion. Never having before visited an exhibition in this 

 place, I had no preconceived ideas in regard to what I might behold. 



I notice in the report made of this society, that last year was the 

 first season that the society held their show on their own grounds, 

 and like the Patriarchs of old, the officers and others had to dwell 

 in tents for the time being, having no other shelter for man or 

 beast ; but now, instead of canvas, you find a large commodious 

 building and other accommodations, Avhich I shall more fully speak of 

 hereafter, and for the details I am indebted to the president of the 

 society. 



