46 WISCONSIN STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
comprised within the limits of the State of Wisconsin, was the 
abode of the savage and wild beast. These broad prairies and 
woodlands were the grand hunting grounds of the red man. 
Within the period of a quarter of a century, this wilderness 
has become a u fruitful field.” The wand of Agriculture has 
passed over it, and by its magic, these wastes are transformed 
into a goodly heritage ;—instead of the tall grass of the prai¬ 
ries, fields of wheat and corn undulate to the passing breeze ; 
—where once the wfild flower bloomed to u waste its sweetness 
on the desert air,” now is seen its more “ cultivated ” sister, 
cherished and appreciated. 
The site of the Indian wdgwam is now occupied by the 
stately mansion and substantial farm-house. Where but 
recently a few wild men were scattered here and there over 
this broad expanse, now a dense population of hundreds of 
thousands of civilized and intelligent freemen occupy the 
country. Civilization and intelligence have taken possession 
of this wide domain. Here are the evidences all around us. 
These are our jewels. 
Upon yonder eminence, where but late stood the Indian hut, 
whose smoke curled lazily towards the clouds, fit emblem of 
his own character —now that eminence is crowmed with a tem¬ 
ple dedicated to the Fine Arts. But late, the bloody Sioux 
encamped on these veritable grounds, seeking the life of his 
brother Indian. ’Tis now a “ tented field,” to be sure, but we 
celebrate the arts of peace. More late, naught but the whoop 
of the savage and the howl of the wild beast broke the silence 
—now the lowing of herds, the bleating of flocks, and the 
merry and joyous voices of thousands of an intelligent popula¬ 
tion make the welkin ring with gladness. Late might have 
been seen here the rude scaffold, erected to dry the flesh and 
skins of the chase, and perchance a few scalps from human 
heads might have adorned these bushes and saplings, trophies 
of savage valor. 
What do we see to-day? Look abroad over these grounds 
and be proud, and thank God for the change. Let us thank 
