XXX REPORTS OF DELEGATES. 



This society is still in its youth, but there is a zeal among its 

 members that gives it the vigor of age. The exhibition grounds 

 are located amidst the finest scenery in Massachusetts. "We were 

 reminded, as we looked upon the cloud-capped mountains around 

 us, of the expression of David in reference to the site of Jerusalem, 

 " Beautiful for situation." Graylock raises its towering head in the 

 south, and on all sides the lofty peaks of the Hoosac mountains are 

 to be seen. 



The Hoosac Valley, at North Adams, is narrow, and a stranger 

 passing through the village might well wonder where the agricul- 

 tural productions could be raised to furnish an exhibition. Towards 

 South Adams, and more especially towards Williamstown, the val- 

 ley expands, furnishing some of the best arable land in the State. 

 The Green River also joins the Hoosac from the south at Williams- 

 town, furnishing much excellent alluvial soil. Certain it is that 

 agricultural productions were not wanting to make a fine show, 

 though, owing to the unfavorable weather, the display was not 

 equal to some former years. We leanied from the secretary that 

 there were entered for premiums among the field crops, 27 pieces 

 of corn, 19 of potatoes, 16 of oats, apple orchards, 11, gardens, 8. 

 Of domestic animals on exhibition, there were 5 pairs of oxen, 18 

 cows, 7 bulls, 3 herds, matched horses, 13, single horses, 13, and 

 trotting horses, 7. The amount of premiums offered was $1,431.50. 

 In the hall we found 97 different articles of household manuficture, 

 29 lots of fruit, all excellent ; 23 entries of garden vegetables, 28 

 paintings and works of art, and 12 lots of butter and cheese. 



We were glad to notice that the horse did not override all other 

 farm stock. Of the $560 premiums ofiered for stock, the horse 

 received only $131 ; not an unreasonable proportion. 



We were disappointed in the reports of the committees of exam- 

 ination and award, not to hear any valuable suggestions. These 

 committees, as they examine the various field crops, the domestic 

 animals, and agricultural productions and implements, cannot fail 

 to acquire much useful information, and this they are in duty bound 

 to communicate to others. We respectfully suggest to the officers 

 of the Hoosac Society that they offer premiums for the best reports, 

 so that their " Transactions " may be a source of knowledge. The 

 committee that goes around the county viewing the different farms 

 and the various modes of culture, have a rare school for learning 

 the practice of the best farmers. No one can serve on this com- 

 mittee without increasing in knowledge, and this he should be will- 

 ing to share with others, for giving knowledge does not impoverish 

 the giver. 



