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observation, because the geological formation is precisely the same 

 in both parishes, nor does the vegetation differ, and the soil seems to 

 be in all respects similar. It would be worth while to analyze the soil 

 of Union and Claiborne and ascertain whether the difference of fer- 

 tility is to be accounted for by the difference of chemical constitu- 

 ents. It is at least possible that the Claiborne soil may contain more 

 lime in a commuted state than is found in the Union parish lands. 

 There can be nothing else in which they can possibly differ in a 

 chemical point of view. They both abound in alnmnia and silicia, 

 and if iron has any fertilizing property both parishes have enough 

 of that mineral ingredient and to spare. The gray surface soil 

 forms everywhere in North Louisiana, a mere crust not more than 

 from four to six inches deep. 



Homer is one of the most pleasant places in that part of the State. 

 Its streets branch out from the Courthouse square, and they are 

 well built up with stores and tastefully constructed residences. So- 

 ciety is quite select, and the citizens are generally engaged in pros- 

 perous business, and display considerable public spirit. The male 

 and female colleges are well-conducted schools, and are well deserv- 

 ing of the patronage which they receive. 



In the vicinity of Homer the grape is extensively cultivated, and 

 several vineyards planted with the well-known scuppernong, are in 

 a flourishing condition and promise to be successful. Whether the 

 climate of North Louisiana is well adapted for the successful culti- 

 vation of the grape can only be ascertained by experience. Accord- 

 ing to Humbolt's theory the grapevine does not flourish south of 

 thirty-four degrees of north latitude. But some species of grape 

 may be found adapted to the climate of North Louisiana, and if in- 

 dustry and practical skill are brought to bear upon this branch of 

 agriculture, wine making may become a profitable business, requir- 

 ing but little capital and hardly any hired labor. 



Webster parish is in all respects similar to Claiborne, from which 

 it has been, in part, divided off. Minden, the parish site, is a place 

 of some pretensions. It has but a single street, which is from 300 to 

 400 yards wide, and the numerous forest trees that have been left 

 standing, give to it a somewhat rural appearance. It has many fine 

 storehouses and carries on a thriving trade during the spring sea- 

 son, being at the. head of navigation on Dorchitta bayou, which con- 

 nects with Lake Bisteneau and Red River. 



