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S. W. JEWETT'S MERINO PRIZE SHEEP. 



Sheep husbandry among the agriculturists of our extended country, 

 is claiming more attention at this period, than in former times; but 

 the spirit of improvement is far behind, what it ought and \vill be 

 for years to come. There are thousands of flocks now in different 

 portions of the United States, numbering from ten to five hundred 

 that are no better, and of the two rather degenerated when com- 

 pared with the original flocks of the country, as they stood thirty 

 years ago. 



There is no branch of more importance to the agricultural com- 

 munity, than the improvement of the vast herds of sheep, and none 

 that can be effected in so short a period of time; every decided im- 

 provement not only benefits the farmer, but it adds to the wealth of 

 the nation. Near our large market towns the improved breeds of 

 mutton sheep, must be raised for the butcher; but as wool is to be 

 one of the leading articles of commerce among the states, and for 

 export, it is important that we improve a portion of our farms, 

 which is so congenial to the growth of this domestic animal, to the 

 finer breeds of our country. 



The merinos, descendants of the fine Spanish breed of sheep, 

 among all of the species stand at the head. It is to this strain of 

 blood that we must depend upon for a basis, and for the improve- 

 ments of our common flocks, where wool is the main ofeject; the 

 pure merinos are the most hardy and best adapted to our soil and 

 climate, of any known species; no other race of sheep can be sus- 

 tained in as good condition, and make so good returns as the meri- 

 nos, they are better adapted to thrive on scanty keep, ^nd range in 

 larger herds than the other improved breeds, or what we term the 

 " natives," of our country; these however, like the other breeds, 

 thrive better in small flocks. I do not allow over about sixty to 

 graze in summer, or fold in winter in one flock; although by prop- 

 er attention two or three hundred merinos can be kept in one herd 

 to good advantage. 



