55 



An innovation was made this year, by holding the en- 

 tire exhibit on the grounds of the society ; a part being for- 

 merly held in the Town Hall, and the change Avas an im- 

 provement, giving a more satisfactory display. The 

 grounds are comparatively level, easily reached, and well 

 suited to the purpose. A portion of the show had to be- 

 held in tents, as there was not sufficient room in the per- 

 manent buildings, these are aparently economically built 

 and in good order. There was a large number of miscel- 

 laneous occupants of the grounds, but I saw no gambling. 



There were on exhibition 60 cows, heifers and bulls, 

 of pure breeds and grades, and herds of milch cows ; also 

 one pair of steers. In the horse department the entries 

 were 30 in number. In swine there were 23 entries, with 

 125 pigs and hogs. There were 8 or 10 sheep and a few 

 Angora goats. In the poultry department there were 250 

 or 300 hens, cocks, chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and a 

 large lot of pigeons, the latter entered by boys. The Mas- 

 sachusettts Fish and Game Society had a fine exhibit of 

 clams, in various stages of growth, Avhich was quite inter- 

 esting. 



In vegetables and fruits good displays were made, 

 considering the dry season. In fruits, apples, pears, 

 grapes and plums were shoAvn. There were 20 entries for 

 children's work, also art work, carpets, rugs, etc., as well 

 as bread and cake. 



A large tent occupied by the wares of Salem mer- 

 chants was an agreeable feature. 



The attendance was large, and very wisely the school 

 children were admitted free in the afternoon of the first 

 day. 



Respectfully submitted, 

 (Signed) Wiixiam H. Spooner. 



[copy.] 



