PRESIDENT'S REPORT. 



The thirty-sixth year of this Society is now at an end and its 

 record is completed. At the annual meeting, held at the begin- 

 ning of the year, a more active and progressive spirit was shown by 

 the members present. The great burden of debt carried so 

 long, which nearly crushed the life out of the Society, had been 

 removed ; leaving no obstacle in the way of its future usefulness 

 and progress. The members with unanimity and determination 

 gave expression, by their action, that the time had arrived for an 

 advance in its position, requiring a more aggressive work. One 

 that would place it on a higher plane, that it might be better ap- 

 preciated and sustained by the great agricultural interest it was 

 organized to serve, and secure a more general support from the 

 public at large. To carry into effect, as far as possible, this very 

 desirable object the work of the board of management was consid- 

 erably increased, as were the expenses, and I rnay state, whac is 

 generally conceded, that the labor performed and money ex- 

 pended were in the right direction, and that the Society is in a 

 better condition and has made substantial progress during the 

 year. 



At this meeting it was voted that the annual custom of hav- 

 ing a farmer's supper be renewed, it having fallen into disuse in 

 late years from lack of support. In compliance with this vote a 

 supper was provided in the city hall in the month of January, 

 mainly from liberal contributions received from the people of this 

 city, and I am pleased to say that it was a success, both financially 

 and socially, notwithstanding the intense cold weather that pre- 

 vailed on that evening. I trust that the holding of these time- 

 honored gatherings will be continued. The question, How to in- 

 crease the interest of the farmers and others engaged in agricultural 

 pursuits in this Society? was carefully considered. The holding 



