APPENDIX. xxxv 



looking their grounds of fifty-five acres, with a beautiful grove on 

 one side. It has a basement for the reception and exhibition of 

 agricultural implements. On the gTQund-floor is a large, well- 

 arranged hall for the displa}- of the products of the farm, the dairy, 

 the workshop, and the ladies' department. On the floor above, they 

 have a large, commodious dining-hall, and a reception-room for hold- 

 ing society meetings, etc. 



The exhibition of fruits, vegetables, and the dairy were very 

 creditable. 



The ladies are entitled to great praise for the magnificent display 

 of flowers. It was one oblong pyramid, reaching nearly the length 

 of the hall. It was just splendid. 



The ploughing-match took place on the first da}\ There was 

 quite a competition for the honors of that department. There were 

 seventeen entries for the match, — eight of ox and nine of horse 

 teams, with different patent ploughs. The ploughmen understood 

 their business, and did good work, showing the great improvement 

 that has been made in the plough, and its work, in the last sixty years. 

 There is no part of the farm-work of more importance than good 

 ploughing. When well done, there are many points gained towards 

 a successful crop. 



There was a good display of cattle, horses, sheep, swine, and 

 poultry. Among the cows, the Jerseys were the most numerous. 

 Owing to the excessive long drought, the cattle in general were 

 not in good show condition. The storm continued through the 

 second day, but there was quite a good attendance of people. At 

 the hour for dinner, there was a tolerably good assembly gathered 

 round the festive board. After which good cheer prevailed, and 

 humorous speaking by members of the Society and invited guests. 



On the whole, we think the old Plymouth County Society is 

 among the prosperous ones of the State. I hold in pleasant remem- 

 brance the reception and attention given me by the officers of the 

 Society, and the kind entertainment I received in the pleasant home 

 of Mr. J. E. Crane and his lady. 



Milo J. Smith. 



II I N G II A M 



The eighteenth exhibition of the Hingham Agricultural and 

 Horticultural Society was held at Hingham on the 27th and 28th of 

 September, 1876, and, in many respects, it compared favorably with 

 those of any former year. The weather was propitious, and the 



