210 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



largely increased. Tliere seems to be but little doubt that the 

 Chester Counties crossed upon well shaped sows of smaller 

 breed, such as the Suffblks, produce the best hog for the farmer. 

 This cross is highly recommended. 



The specimens of Blackhawk, Balrownie, and other breeds of 

 horses were very fine, and the large number of stallions, breed- 

 ing mares, colts, farm horses, pairs of horses, and workers, 

 entered for premium, indicated a laudable interest in this 

 branch of farming. 



To speak in a complimentary manner of the poultry exhibited 

 by Mr. Felch, of Natick, is to do no more than justice to an 

 enterprising laborer in this part of agriculture. 



The show of articles in the hall was large and well arranged. 

 It was gratifying to see the specimens of corn and otiier grain 

 for which the soil of this region is so appropriate. The cultiva- 

 tion of wheat has received much attention from members of this 

 society, and we trust it will not be abanSoned. 



Of the fruit, the culture of the grape seemed to have been 

 carried to a high degree, and attended with great success. An 

 entry of two peach orchards for premium showed an enterprise 

 in the midst of obstacles, worthy of praise, and perhaps in the 

 warm lands of South Middlesex, destined to succeed. 



A premium for handwriting brought out two competitors; 

 and as an encouragement to the sons of farmers to cultivate 

 this important branch of education, it might well be repeated 

 elsewhere. 



The society seems to be in very successful operation, if we 

 may judge from the interest manifested in the various objects 

 exhibited. The ploughing match was well attended, and was 

 conducted with spirit and good order. The grounds were 

 thronged with people. The hall was crowded, and an attentive 

 audience took part in the proceedings of the day. The whole 

 amount of receipts for the last year are eleven hundred and 

 twenty-four dollars and fifty cents. The premium list is liberal, 

 the amount awarded being six hundred and forty-two dollars 

 and seventy cents. It is to be hoped that nothing will check 

 the zeal iiitherto displayed in the exhibitions of tiiis society, as 

 it is evident that among its members and within its jurisdiction 

 are many skilful and prosperous farmers, occupied in almost 



