176 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. [P. D. 4. 



growing given at the State college at Orono. There he learned, 

 among other things, of the successful operation of the well- 

 known co-operative associations in the west. He came back 

 with wonderful stories of how these organizations were over- 

 coming the obstacles of distance and unfamiliarity with market 

 conditions, and were handling crops so as to return the grower 

 a profit sufficient to encourage the growing of better fruit. The 

 young man began by interesting his brothers in a scheme for 

 better marketing. On numerous occasions there were lively dis- 

 cussions, and it was finally decided to form a co-operative 

 society with seven brothers as charter members. This was in 

 the summer of 1911, and marks the beginning of the Oxford 

 Bears Fruit Growers' Association. Much valuable assistance 

 was given us by the State Department of Horticulture through 

 Mr. S. K. Gardner, the State Horticulturist, and Mr. G. A. 

 Yeaton, assistant. From the success attained by the organiza- 

 tion it is apparent that from the start the founders were on the 

 right track. The chief essentials for success in co-operation 

 were present, and I wish that you would mark these few neces- 

 sary things. 



First. — As shown by existing conditions, the association was 

 born of necessity. 



Second. — There was a sufficient supply of fruit being grown 

 in the neighborhood to assure us of enough business. 



Third. — It was possible for us to hire as manager one having 

 some knowledge of marketing. 



Fourth. — Most important of all, I consider, we had as 

 members men possessing the true co-operative spirit, a pro- 

 gressive outlook, and a willingness to stand back of the organi- 

 zation through thick and thin. 



We incorporated our association under the laws of our State, 

 with a capital stock of $1,000, this being divided into 200 

 shares at $5 each. Each grower subscribes to 2 shares of stock 

 upon being elected to membership. This entitles him to vote at 

 all meetings of the association. Only matters pertaining to the 

 general policy of the association are voted on in the regular 

 meetings of stockholders. Most of the business is transacted by 

 the board of directors, in whom we place considerable responsi- 

 bility. These directors are five in number and are chosen 



