100 



Grounds several acres of land, ■which has been inclosed with a perma- 

 nent fence, thus rendering them more convenient for the exhibition of the 

 various departments of domestic animals, and ample for the present demands 

 of the Association. The funds to make this purchase have been generously 

 offered by a worthy member of this Society, who has kindly consented to 

 wait its convenience for repayment. 



The progress of agriculture and rural economy in our county received a 

 new impulse with the establishment of this Society, and has advanced 

 simultaneously with it. The evidence of this is apparent in the general 

 interest now manifested by the public in agricultural and horticultural 

 pursuits — in improved arts of cultivation — in the rapid multiplication of 

 fruits and the increase of crops — in the introduction and rearing of the 

 best breeds of stock, especially of milch cows, swine, and fine horses — and 

 in the better construction of buildings, as farm-houses and barns. Among 

 the causes which have produced these favorable results, we recognize the 

 enterprise, union and devotion of the members of the Society. 



Fellow Associates — I have cheerfully. labored with you; but it is 

 these, it is your own harmony and energy which have given efficiency to 

 our efforts. For all these I most sincerely thank you, and most earnestly 

 desire that they may continue to reflect honor upon you, and to advance 

 the interests of our Association. Let us, however, remember that our ex- 

 hibitions are not mere holidays, but should be occasions for mutual instruc- 

 tion. Here the results of labor are exhibited ; here mind acts on mind — 

 experience is compared with experience — emulous resolutions are formed — 

 personal exertion is stimulated, and a laudable ambition is encouraged. 

 To accomplish the objects for which this Association was formed, you have 

 only to persevere in the praiseworthy course which you have so honorably 

 commenced. But the time allotted to these exercises demands of me great 

 brevity, and therefore on these topics I cannot enlarge. 



In conclusion, — let union, energy, and progress be your motto. Thus 

 shall you develope the natural resources of our wealth, advance the cause 

 of agriculture and rural art — improve the social condition of the present 

 generation, and transmit to posterity the richest of all temporal blessings — 

 fruitful fields, abundant harvests, and domestic happiness. 



At the conclusion of the address by the President, prayer was 

 offered by the Rev. Abijah R. Baker, pastor at West Needham. 

 The choir then sung the following 



ORIGINAL HYMN. 



By MI39 ANNE S. TILESTON, OF DORCHESTER. 



AVhile Autumn her rich gifts imparts, 

 And grateful pleasure fills our hearts, 

 O, let us bow before His shrine. 

 And humbly thank the Power Divine. 



