HON. M. P. WILDER's REPORT. 8i3 



origin. The whole number of Neat Cattle on the common, was five 

 hundred. 



The display of horses was extensive. More than one hundred 

 specimens occupied tlie stations, assigned to them and gave general 

 satisfaction. Although there were few animals of high grade, yet 

 there were some superior beasts ; which indicated that attention had 

 been bestowed on their breeding and that commendible efforts are in 

 progress for the improvement of the noble Horse. In the Poultry 

 department, were six hundred specimens — many of them of improved 

 varieties — which affords satisfactory evidence of the interest felt in 

 Hampshire County, in the rearing of superior Fowls. Your delegate 

 gave a cursory examination to the sheep and swine — which formed an 

 interesting portion of the Exhibition and attracted the attention of 

 visitors. 



The Pomological department was very well ^represented, particular- 

 ly, with Apples. The display consisted of more than four hundred 

 plates. Many specimens were of the most popular varieties in culti- 

 vation, and which, for size and beauty, could hardly be surpassed in 

 New England. We were happy to learn, that an increasing interest 

 prevails among the farmers of the Connecticut Valley in the culture 

 of fine fruits. The perfection and general excellence of those on ex- 

 hibition, indicate that Hampshire County could make this branch of 

 cultivation successful and profitable. 



The Plowing Match, always a scene of interest and excitement, 

 was witnessed by a large number of spectators. There were about 

 twenty teams, which entered the list for competition. The land was 

 rather stiff and stony, well adapted to try the skill of the teams. 

 The work was remarkably Avell done, under the circumstances ; some 

 g£ the plowmen managing with great ability and skill. 



We noticed here, as well as at the Exhibitions of other Agricultur- 

 al Societies, the Michigan Sod and Svib-soil Plow. It resembles, if 

 it is not identical, with the Ploio of Morton, described in a recent 

 French Publication, in possession of President Hitchcock. This 

 Plow in the opinion of your Delegate, is worthy of all the commen- 

 dation, which has been bestowed upon it, in this country. From 

 personal experience, and from an opportunity of witnessing its per- 

 formance, your Committee recommend it, as worthy of adoption by 

 every farmer. At no trial, either at the exhibition of the Hamp- 



