APPENDIX. xxvii 



expected to see at a show of this Society, yet there were a number 

 that appeared to be well bred and good milkers. 



Among the other classes of stock were many valuable animals. 



The pens allotted to sheep were well filled with the breeds known 

 as fine, long, and middle woolled, and grades. A considerable 

 number of the flocks were very superior. This section of the State 

 appears to be well adapted to sheep husbandry, and judging from 

 the exhibition of sheep, it should be profitable. 



The show of swine was small, but good. 



Poultry was represented by most of the prominent breeds. 



The exhibition of trained oxen and steers was, as it deserved to 

 be, one of the attractive features of the show. At the drawing- 

 matches, the stone-boat, or drag, was used, which does not afford a 

 chance to test completely either training or fitness for various kinds 

 of work. The trials showed that the animals did the best they could, 

 and were willing to try to do more. But on account Of the excessive 

 loads, we regret to say that, in our opinion, this part of the exhibi- 

 tion was hardly creditable to the Society. 



The display of fruit, vegetables, and grains was good. 



Some excellent samples of butter and cheese were shown, but the 

 fame of this region for butter-making had led us to expect a sharper 

 competition for the prizes. 



The ladies' department, in addition to an abundance of good, 

 wholesome bread, contained many things that required care, patience, 

 skill and industry to produce. The offerings indicated that the 

 ladies were not unmindful of the prosperity of the Society. 



In the youths' department were numerous contributions, possessing 

 merit, and giving evidence of much that is hopeful for the future. 



The address of G. T. Barker, Esq., of Pittsfield, was an eloquent 

 effort, in which the orator alluded to those well-worn subjects, the 

 importance of agriculture, and the felicities of a farmer's life. 



The exhibition of horses on the second da} 7 brought many fine 

 animals to the grounds, with the usual gathering of eager spectators. 

 At the trials of speed, and at the other trials, where to "go" was 

 not regarded as so much importance ; the drivers, ladies and gentle- 

 men, lads and misses, showed much address in management, and a 

 commendable consideration for their horses. 



As might be expected from the favorable weather, the energy of 

 the officers, and the interest manifested in the Society, the fair was, 

 financially, satisfactory, and we think that the endeavors of the 

 " executive committee to keep up the credit of the Society for a well- 

 balanced cattle-show and fair," were reasonably successful. Our 

 associate, Mr. C. E. Hawks, and his estimable lady, have my sincere 

 thanks for hospitality and kindness shown me. 



A. H. Holland, 



