AMERICAN INSTITUTE. 175 



cutters make eighteen vibrations to each revolution of the driving 

 wheels, or one cut to each one and a-half inch traveled over by 

 the machine. The outer end of the cutter bar is supported by a 

 wheel of eight or ten inches in diameter, which prevents it from 

 dragging or resting upon the ground — an arrangement which may 

 be found beneficial, but its advantages remain to be determined 

 by experience. One peculiarity of this machine is that it has two 

 driving wheels, and these permit such a disposition of the work- 

 ing parts as relieves the team from any lateral pressure by the 

 tongue or pole — a disadvantage which appears unavoidable in 

 some others. The weight of this was reported to be 500 lbs.; its 

 price, fitted as a mowing machine, $100, and with such additions 

 as are required to fit it for reaping $115. 



The foregoing comprises the information obtained in relation to 

 the machines submitted for our examination, and from which the 

 premium committee will of course form its own conclusions : the 

 undersigned, however, in concluding their report, have to state 

 that in their opinion the performance of No. 1, considering 

 the power required to work it, and the amount and quality of the 

 work done, should be classed as best, and the performance of No. 

 4 as second best. 



Of the performance of No's 2 and 3, in the condition in which 

 we saw them, it would be improper to express an opinion. 



To form a correct estimate of their value they should be seen 

 at work when completely finished and perfect, and in the hands 

 of those familiar with their use. 



Respectfully submitted. 



JOHN D. WARD, 

 NICHOLAS WYCKOFF, 

 JOHN A. BUNTING. 

 Repository of the Jim. Institute, JYew-York, SOt/i Oct., 1856. 



[.^ silver medal awarded to R. L. Allen for the best mowing 

 machine. 



Improved Smut Machine. 



John M. Earls, Troy, N. Y. This machine has been in use about 

 four years, and the exhibiter says it has given satisfaction to every 

 One who has tried them. Not liable to get out of order, and re- 

 quires but little power to run them. [.^ bro?ize medal awarded. 



