THE FARMER. BALTIMORE, FRIDAY, OCTOBER-21, 1825. MR. JOHN S. SKINNER,, Sir,-As our friend CURWEN and myself have not been so fortunate as to convince each other of being in error, on the subject of Alderneys, I cheerfully refer the matter to our next meeting at "my fireside," when I hope to be more successful in a verbal, than I appear to have been in a written disYours, respectfully, cussion. HENRY THOMPSON. Baltimore county, Oct. 17, 1825. purchase two hundred and fifty head, but we have PRICES CURRENT. WHOLESALE. RETAIL. ARTICLES. per. Trom lb. to from to A subscriber residing in N. Carolina, wishes The same correspondent adds, "Our corn crops do. Common, COTTON, Louisiana, &c. Georgia Upland,. COTTON YARN, No. 10, An advance of 1 cent each number to No. 18. CANDLES, Mould, 28 7 10 11 25 18 20 Dipt, CHEESE,. FEATHERS, Live, FISH, Herrings, Sus. GENERAL LAFAYETTE.-In the memoranda of re- EXTRAORDINARY PRODUCE.-T. P. Bennett Esq. Shad, trimmed, quests with which the editor of the American Far- of Talbot county, sent to the office of the American FLAXSEED, Rough,.. bush 1 mer, was honoured by his respected and good friend Farmer, two hundred and eighty-three stalks of FLOUR, Superfine, city, bbl. Fine, General Lafayette; there is one that will depend for wheat, which were the product of four grains, viz: its fulfilment on the kindness of his subscribers. It 66 from one, 69 from a second, 71 from the third was the desire of the General to be supplied with a and 77 from the fourth; being an average of sevensample of all the varieties of our Indian corn, in the ty stalks to each grain. ear. He requests therefore, the favour of one or two LARGE EGG-PLANT.-An egg-plant, from the garears, such as may be deemed, in any particular, curious or uncommon. This request is put forth now, den of H. Thompson, Esq., was lately deposited in that it may be borne in mind at "husking time," and the office of the American Farmer, which measured members of Congress coming to Washington, and 242 inches round. of the Legislature to Annapolis, will afford good opportunities of sending them where earlier ones do not offer. MARYLAND COTTON.-A sample of beautiful cotton, the growth of "early black seed," planted at Bloomsbury, the residence of H. V. Somerville, Be it remembered, that the Maryland Agri Esq., near this city, on the 24th May, and gathercultural Society for the Eastern Shore, will hold ed on the 4th October, was last week left with their next Exhibition at Easton, on Thursday, Friday the Editor of the American Farmer, to be distriand Saturday, the third, fourth and fifth days of buted to the Trustees of the Maryland Agricultural | Society. November. HEMP, Russia, clean,. HOPS, The steam-boat Maryland will leave here on MARYLAND TOBACCO.-A sale was made last week HOGS' LARD, Wednesday morning, at 7 o'clock, and arrive at of 83 hogsheads, being part of the crop of Benjamin LEATHER, Soal, best, Easton about sunset-taking Annapolis in the way. Oden, Esq., Prince George's county. This parcel Eastern Tan, . She will return on Sunday after the show, and thus consisted of crop and seconds, averaged 900 lbs. MOLASSES, W. India, afford a good opportunity for those who have leisure, each hogshead, and was sold at $12 round. to pay a visit to a most beautiful and most hospita- It was nearly all unfired. We understand this ble part of the state. The steam-boat company, in gentleman obtained an average of $11.28 for his a spirit that deserves commendation, have liberally whole crop. consented to transport, free of expense, animals going to be exhibited for premium and sale, where DEAR SIR, Charleston, Sept. 17, 1825. they are accompanied by their owners. This reguPerceiving by your last number, you had not seen lation encourages the interchange of agricultural the Tannier Plant, I send you a sketch of the leaf information, and the dissemination of good blood, in and flower. When they are fit to be gathered I will more ways than one. If we cannot find leisure to send you some of the eating roots and seed; perhaps go, we shall envy those who are more fortunate. they may succeed with you. The Union Agricultural Society, at their regular meeting in Darien, Geo., on the 12th of May last, by unanimous consent, appointed J. S. Skinner an honorary member of the society. J. MIDDLETON, JR. Turpentine, Soft, 138 7 202 bbl. 2 25 2 25 2 2 12 30 80 82 PORK, Baltimore Mess, do. Brown, Louisiana, Loaf, It appears to be very desirable that droves For the ensuing year, a middle aged man, who has of stock cattle should be brought nearer to our mar- been regularly bred to the business, and is particularly ket, and it is believed that might easily be accom- acquainted with the culture of a vegetable or culinary SPICES, Cloves, His wife would Ginger, Ground, plished if some assurance could be given that they garden, and the rearing of fruit trees. Pepper,. would here find a market. It is confidently believ- also superintend a dairy, in the management of which ed by those with whom we have conversed on this she can produce testimonials of superior skill. For SALT, St. Ubes, further information, inquire at the office of the Ameri- Ground Alum, subject, that three hundred lean cattle might be sold can Farmer. October 17. SHOT, all sizes, here this autumn; and if there happened to be a WINES, Madeira, L. P. surplus beyond the demand, at fair prices, the resido. Sicily,. due might, it has been well suggested, be sent to Lisbon, the Deer Creek settlement, to the vicinity of PhilaClaret, delphia, and other intermediate markets. It would be well for gentlemen who are in the habit of buying such cattle, to leave their names with the editor Address to the citizens of Pennsylvania on Internal of the American Farmer, and the number that they Improvement, continued-Rudiments of Cookery, soups would probably want. Should this arrangement be and broths-Method of restoring Wines-On the barfavored by the drovers, it is believed that from five Kale-Eclipse against the World-Cruelty to Animals hundred to one thousand head, might be sold here University of Virginia-On the Length of Gun-barrels every autumn. The names of eight or ten gentle--New Market Races-Recipes-Henry Thompson to men occur to us at once, who, we believe, would Curwen-Editorial-Advertisement-Prices Current. CONTENTS OF THIS NUMBER. renness of Fruit Trees-On the culture of Cæsarean gal. lb. 11 0011 50 00 bush No. 32-VOL. 7. AMERICAN FARMER-BALTIMORE, OCTOBER 28, 1825. AGRICULTURE. ON IRRIGATION. 249 cured, by suitable fences, from poaching and tres- Flowing Meadows. Where the ground is flat, pass. Indeed, these are necessary, not only for the the soil is formed into beds, or broad ridges, like advantage of the grass, but for the safety of the those met with at bleach-fields. They are comstock, as sheep cannot be suffered to resort to lands monly from 30 to 40 feet wide, and nine or ten WATER is employed in various ways for the im- flooded in summer, from the risk of rot. poles in length; as in such situations, the great obprovement of land. 1. By the process of what is 2. Corn. In the East Indies, not only rice, but ject is, when once brought on, to be able to carry strictly called irrigation, when water is made to wheat and barley are raised by means of irrigation; off the water quickly. Hence it is necessary to trickle over the surface. 2. By flooding, when it and it has long been a practice in some parts of throw up the land in high ridges, with drains becovers the soil completely, for a period of time; and, Scotland, to enrich the soil for crops of grain by tween them. More of the failures in irrigation 3. By warping, when the water acts merely as a the same means. Mr. Scrymsoure, of Tealing, a arise from the ridges not being sufficiently high, conductor of the warp or mud; by which the im- gentleman in Forfarshire, followed the practice for and the slopes not being sufficiently steep, than from provement is effected. We shall consider these se- nearly fifty years, and with such success, that an any other cause.* tion. veral processes separately, beginning with irriga-enclosure, which had got into an exhausted state, Catch-work Meadows. It is difficult to give an was so enriched by it, that it preserved an uncom-intelligible written description of the mode of makThis subject embraces the following particulars: mon degree of fertility for a succession of crops, ing these meadows. To be properly understood, The objects to which irrigation is applied; the me- (one of them wheat,) without fallow, lime or marl, the operation must be seen. It may, however, in thods of conducting the process; the circumstances and with very moderate assistance from dung. general be remarked, that the system is calculated necessary to be considered previous to the plan The common method was very different. After for sloping grounds; and that after the water is being undertaken; the waters best calculated for watering for one or two seasons, they ploughed for brought from the original stream, into a new cut, it that purpose; the proper soils and subsoils for irri- oats, and by taking two or three successive crops, is stopped at the end, on as high a level as the case gated meadows; the effects of climate on irrigation; the soil was exhausted, and run out into weeds and admits of, by which the water is made to fill the the profit; the grasses best adapted for water mea- poverty. Nothing else could be expected from trench, and run over at the side, and flood the land dows; the stock fed upon them; the making and such management. But in other parts of Scotland, below it. But as the water would soon cease to preserving water-meadow hay; the objections which irrigation was not only practised with considerable run equally, and would wash the land out in guthave been urged against irrigation; the advantages success, and for crops of grain, but immense quan- ters, it has been found necessary to cut small paattending it; and the improvements of which it is tities of wild oats, formerly prevalent, were com- rallel trenches, at the distance of from 20 to 30 susceptible. pletely extirpated, and for the destruction of which feet, to catch the water again, (hence the name oriI. The Objects of Irrigation. no other means were known, previous to the introginated,) and the same plan of spreading, or diffusduction of fallowing and of green crops.§ Water ing, is continued, until the water reaches the main It is generally supposed, that watering land is alone, however, without the addition of other sub- drain at the bottom of the meadow. It is a great only calculated for the purpose of encouraging the stances, will not bring grain to perfection. Hence, advantage attending the catch-work system, that it production of grass; but irrigation is likewise ap- tnough from year to year it may be applied to mea- is not only less expensive, but the same quantity of plicable to the culture of grain, and has even been dow and pasture grass with success, yet it cannot water will do much more work. made use of for promoting the growth of timber. be repeated with advantage to coin, except at con- In either of these ways, irrigation promotes the 1. Grass. There are four modes by which water si lerable intervals of time, or accompanied with growth of grass. The herbage of dry land is impromotes the melioration of grass lands. It pre-manure. poverished from the want of water; that of wet serves a favourable degree of temperature; im- The system of irrigating for corn,** seems like-land, by its remaining stagnant; but both these proves the crop, by the nourishing substances it wise to have succeeded in Somersetshire, where a evils are remedied by the processes above deconveys; destroys heaths and other weeds, which large tract of country, suffered to remain in pasture scribed. delight in a dry soil;, and, as a mere element it is for two years, was, during that time, at stated in-III. Circumstances to be considered, previous to the beneficial, more especially in dry seasons.* tervals, regularly flooded by a stream descending Water, as a carrier, likewise conveys other sub- from the adjacent hills. It was then subjected to Plan being undertaken. stances to the soil, by which it is enriched. This the following rotation of crops: 1. Wheat on the The first point to be ascertained is, whether there is, obviously, the case when land is irrigated by ley; 2 Turnips; and, 3. Barley, and artificial grass-be a sufficient quantity of water at command. For muddy waters, which leave behind them rich mould es. The produce of grain was very considerable; want of due attention to this important circumand other substances. If lime or marl be held in namely, of wheat from 40 to 50 bushels, and of stance, mistakes have sometimes been made, both the solution, the waters become highly enriching. barley from 50 to 60 bushels per statute acre. In in England and Scotland, extremely prejudicial to Other soluble and nutritive substances are also ca- a late publication on the utility of water-meadows, the advancement of irrigation. pable of being conveyed by water in the same man- a question therefore is not improperly put, whether, The next objects are, the quality of the water, and ner, on passing through fertile tracts. upon particular soils, and under certain circumstan- the nature of the soil, and subsoil, of the land pro Meadow plants, cut green, without any external ces, irrigation might not produce similar effects posed to be irrigated. moisture on their stalks or leaves, and afterwards upon wheat, and several other plants of the field It is then proper to consider how, and where, the dried, lose by exsiccation, from 66 to 70 parts out and the garden, as upon herbage? The author water can be taken out of the stream. This can of 100. This very large proportion of moisture, adds, no good reason can be assigned, why this va-only be done by a proper level; and the assistance (though water is perhaps not the only substance luable improvement should be restricted to the cul- of a professed irrigator will be necessary. carried off,) is a direct proof, that water itself en- tivation of grasses.‡‡ Irrigation being an operation requiring consider ters largely into the composition of these vegeta- But, on the whole, the improvement of grass, able nicety and skill, cannot be advantageously bles. Water is likewise of use, by the more equa- seems to be the great object to which the watering conducted, without attentive hands to form the soil, ble diffusion of nutritive matter in the soil, which it of land is applicable. necessarily occasions. The system of watering land, however, can never be carried to perfection, unless when accompanied by drainage and enclosure. Stagnant water and impetuous torrents, do essential injury; but if water is entirely under command, so that it may be laid on, or taken off at pleasure, it may become a most useful instrument, in the hands of a skilful husbandman. Drainage is therefore a necessary preparation for irrigation.f II. The Methods of conducting the Process. Water-meadows are of two sorts: flowing, calculated for a flat country; and catch-work, for sloping grounds. 94. * Statistical Account of Scotland, vol. iv. P. tabid., vol. xv. p. 82. Ibid., vol. xvi. p. 471. § Aberdeenshire Report, p. 444. Statistical Account of Scotland, vol. xv. p. 88. With respect to enclosure, it can be of little real what we call small grain-they know nothing of Indian [By corn, it is known that English writers mean use to water lands, unless they are previously se- corn.] to lay on and shift the water, and to remove it; also to cut down the produce, and to make it into hay. On all these accounts, a supply of trusty labourers for carrying on these several processes, must be provided. IV. Of the Water calculated for Irrigation. [This article, on irrigation, is copied from the third edition of Sir John Sinclair's "Code of Agriculture," presented by that great benefactor of the plough to the Editor of the American Farmer. The contains some manuscript corrections and additions copy thus received is the more highly prized, as it in the hand writing of the author. Amongst others, at this place he remarks: "Quere-Vineyards, whether they should be irrigated?"] tt Somerset Report, p. 266. This tract is on the deSee Dr. Singer's Treatise on Irrigation, in the Ge- mesne of Mr. Luttrel, of Dunster Castle. neral Report of Scotland, vol. ii. p. 574.-Derbyshire Observations on the Utility of Water-meadows, by Report, vol. ii. p. 464. William Smith, Engineer and Mineralogist. Printed fin preparing irrigated meadows, covered drains can an. 1806, p. 39. Marshall on Landed Property, p. 260, never be safely resorted to, because the water would calls it a probable mprovement. See also Derbyshire Realmost certainly get down into them, and destroy them: port, vol. ii. p. 484. The late Duke of Bedford had it and in most instances, the ridges may be made suffi- in view, to adopt this plan of temporary irrigation, for ciently high and steep, to effect a sufficient drainage.-arable land. It has been found of great use, at Wo-er, Derbyshire Report, vol. ii. p. 465. burn Abbey, to irrigate strawberries. 32-VOL. 7. Clear spring-water, in the state in which it issues * Derbyshire Report, vol. ii. p. 459, and 466. Wiltshire Report p. 119. Communications by Mr. Boulton, a flooder, or floatfrom Gloucestershire. General Report of Scotland, vol. ii. p. 596, LOWER VIRGINIA. from the hills, (more especially where the strata are calcareous,) is certainly of a fertilizing quality. It is charged with a considerable quantity of vital air; near the source also, it is usually warmer than other waters, and thence it answers better for irrigation, more especially during severe weather in winter. From these properties, there is always produced, abundance of early succulent grass, for THE revival of lower Virginia is now looked upon several yards where the water first runs over the as near at hand. You know what a depopulating land near the spring. Clear spring-water may also tide of emigration has set from it to the west for success of so many will encourage the balance to be used longer than the foul or muddy, being less the last 20 years. Many of its former inhabitants In this, as in almost every thing else connected with persevere, until they overcome the causes of failure. hence some give a decided preference to clean-are now enterprising, respectable citizens of North rural economy, the practical success of our neighapt to render the grass gritty and unwholesome; Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Ken- bours, occurring under our immediate inspection, watered crops.* tucky, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and will go further than all the reasoning or essays that Mountain streamlets, fed principally by springs, Ohio. There is scarcely a neighbourhood in any could be published. Next year I expect to see the are more at command than rivers, and more con- of the new states, which has not some family from culture of cotton quadrupled in Virginia. The invenient to be directed over slopes, and are also betold Virginia. Although the tide of emigration has ter calculated for improving grass. crease will go on until all our lands, adapted to its been great from the tobacco and wheat portions of Where river water is accessible, it is commonly Virginia, yet its effects have been, in some measure, mation most devoutly to be wished." Even if the growth, will be devoted to it. This is "a consumloaded with many enriching substances from the counteracted by emigrants from the district below country, and the towns and villages through which tide water. The soil which produced the richest price should fall 20 per cent below what it now is, it passes; and is thus productive, not only of tem- staples, and was most exempt from disease would it will then pay the planter a better profit than any porary, but of permanent improvement. Sea-water also, where it can be employed for mate, there is great room for speculation. It is and the markets will not be so often glutted. All naturally attract the densest population. As to cli-thing else he can raise. The grain growers will profit by it; because there will be better prices for grain, that purpose in moderate quantities, or made use of thought questionable by many if the upper, has not, other interests will be benefited, on the principle, within embanked marshes, is applicable to the pur- in this respect, been given too great an advantage that an addition to the revenue or the wealth of a poses of irrigation. It contains, more especially over the lower country. No matter how the acnear the land, not only animal and vegetable sub-count may now stand, I am convinced that after ju- in their transactions with the rest. numerous class of any society, is felt most sensibly stances, but also saline mixtures in solution. The diciously expending some capital in removing local utility of salt marshes to diseased horses, and their causes of disease, and bringing into cultivation the flattering than they have been for some years. Prices The prospects of our tobacco planters are more acting as a restorative to sheep in danger of, or in- rich lands in the lower country, the balance will not abroad are said to be "dangerously high," and the fected by that fatal malady, the rot, is well known. remain so much in favour of the upper country. It knowing ones think that they will be so far mainThose ideas are corroborated by an observation, will be ascertained this year, whether or not cotton tained that the planter may expect an ample remuthat the meadows near the mouth of the Severn, may be relied on as a sure and profitable crop. Every neration for his toils. Thus we have two-thirds of where salt water is spread over the lands by the tide, indication that I have seen or heard of as to the pre-Virginia at present cheered by unexampled prosare grazed, instead of being mown, and are ac- sent crop, is highly favourable. The small parcels counted the best possible pasture for horses and cultivated heretofore, by a few individuals, have suf-toxicated, and call into action but a common share pects of agricultural prosperity. If we are not incattle that require rest, and spring physic.† ficiently established the quality of our cotton. To my of prudence and energy, we may soon free ourselves In regard to waters much impregnated with iron, mind it is now rendered certain that the cotton plan- of pecuniary embarrassments, and enter earnestly they were formerly supposed totally unfit for the ter in lower Virginia, lacks nothing but confidence into extensive improvements. The renovation of purposes of irrigation; but it is now fully proved, in the article, to be placed on a footing with the toby the accurate experiments of an able chymist, bacco planter of the upper country. The difficulty lower Virginia, will be a most gratifying event. The and by the extraordinary growth of grasses in Pris- of changing the habits of men; of inducing them to and from their having been once the seats of the genumerous old mansions, venerable from their age, ley meadow, in Bedfordshire, that ferruginous wa- embark in crops or even modes of cultivation, never ters are friendly to vegetation, when properly ap- adopted by their fathers, has been always one of the destined to be repeopled. The mouldering churches nerous, the hospitable, the patriotic of our land, are plied. Chalybeate springs, however, or water most serious obstacles in disseminating agricultural impregnated with other mineral substances, as lead improvements. Few men, unconscious of the unli-reflection to the passing traveller, are again to echo which have so long afforded subjects of melancholy or copper, never does good; and it is well known,mited range of science and intellect, can be made to with the praises of the living God, uttered by a rethat waters of that description, after they have been believe that they can be taught any thing valuable brought into fields, by levels cut at a considerable in a pursuit which has engaged all their attention, ritorious population of lower Virginia, who have religious and enlightened people. The sparse and meexpense, have again been diverted, and suffered to and the attention of their fathers' fathers, for gene-sisted the rage for emigration, are to have the chasms flow in their original channels.§ rations past. Many persons whose minds keep pace in their society filled up-their country is again to Waters that are impregnated with the juices that with the advancements of the sciences and mechaflow from peat mosses, are considered by many, not nic arts, or who see and acknowledge the wonder-prosper-God grant that these may not be ideal viworth applying to the soil. It is objected to them, ful improvements of modern times, are loath to adthat they are soon frozen; that they convey no ma-mit that the simple operation of ploughing or ditch- drew the breath of life on the tide water margin of Think not that I am an enthusiast, or that I first terial nutriment; and that they are commonly load-ing can be improved. It is this attachment to old some of our noble rivers. Not so-I am a mouned with such antiseptic substances, as will retard, customs; this veneration for the ways of our ances- taineer, and never have lived below the head of tide instead of promoting vegetation.** It is urged, on tors; this resistance of innovation, that keeps so water. But yet I am not insensible to the advanthe other hand, that a want of sufficient slope in the large a portion of our country in so rude a state, tages of that country, nor to its numerous enjoymeadow, or of proper management in regard to the and so many of our people poor. To break downments. Some revolution in events must make it the water, may have occasioned the disappointments these prejudices by exhibiting the results of practiexperienced in some cases, when bog-waters have cal men, and diffusing the knowledge of improve-approaching. The fertility and cheapness of lands garden of our state. I think I see that revolution been applied.ft ment, is the great object of your valuable paper, the in the West, and the idea of a more salubrious clime, American Farmer. The prejudices to which I refer deprived it of most of its young and enterprising operate powerfully against its circulation, except with the most enlightened class of farmers. But population—the old have been cut off by the scythe the services you have already done to the cause of agriculture entitle you to the thanks of the whole country. Your labours will, it is hoped, daily assume more importance, and be rewarded in a manner more worthy of your zeal and industry. our country, their labours have been but badly rewarded. They have had very poor markets for their Favourable change in its Agricultural condition, pro- corn; and their soil is not adapted to tobacco or ducts, and prospects. wheat. Under these circumstances, if they apply Extract of a letter from one of his friends to the their energies to the cotton culture, they will find it Editor of the American Farmer-dated, 6th Oc- more profitable; and the article better suited to their tober, 1825. soil than any thing else save Indian corn. The want of experience in raising the crop, will occasion some failures for a year or two. But it is hoped that the (To be concluded in next number.) * Smith's Observations, pp. 68 and 74. These waters generally hold in solution, a portion of oxide of iron, commonly called "green vitriol," sup posed to be a preventive of the rot, as sheep in the Cambridgeshire fens, where that substance abounds, never take that disease. ** Dr. Stringer's Treatise, p. 579. Derbyshire Report, vol ii. p. 463. Since the wretched policy of the government has cut off, in so great a degree, the markets of the West Indies, from the inhabitants of the corn section of *Old and New Virginia were the terms by which the parts of the country below and above the mountains were designated. sions! of time. It is now found that sickness visits alike the margin of the marsh and the valley of the mountain; and the love of gain, may I not say, of pleasure, will gather again on our Atlantic border a dense and active population. What is to prevent it? Will fine lands, productive of the richest staplenoble rivers, bays, &c. affording all the facilities of commerce-every advantage-with a climate, the finest in the Union for nine months of the year, and even for the other three, with prudence, not half as deleterious as imagined-with these advantages what can prevent the revival of lower Virginia? J. S. SKINNER, Esq. can take a more full view and see it work, shall givej SAINFOIN. SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION. Brandywine, Sept. 6, 1825. An extraordinary phenomenon has occurred a few miles from this place, which caused such a rumour as induced me to visit the place and ascertain the facts that caused it; and in order to inform the farm- MR. JOHN S. SKINNER, ing interest I now forward some of the particulars. Augusta county, Va., Oct. 21st, 1825. WORCESTER CATTLE SHOW. The annual cattle show, ploughing match and exhibition of manufactures, took place at Worcester, (Mass.) on Wednesday, the 12th instant. The President of the United States had been expected, but did not attend. There was a great concourse of strangers, many of whom were delegates from other Sir, I wish to obtain information, through the societies; and others were attracted by the reputaWilliam Painter, a farmer in the neighbourhood medium of your very valuable paper, whether there tion of the farmers of Worcester county. Colonel of Brandywine, Delaware county, Pennsylvania, is such a grass to be had in this country as the Sain-Pickering, who, although above 80 years of age, is having harvested his crops of hay and grain, and foin. I never heard of such a grass until I saw an one of the most active agriculturists of the state, filled a large barn with the product at the usual time; account of it in a work published by Mr. Spurrier, was present. one bay or mow of hay contained about sixty tons, who was a celebrated English farmer. It must cer- In the department of manufactures, the carpets and on the 4th of the present month, which was about tainly be one of the most valuable grasses that the are highly spoken of, both as to their number and three months after being in the barn, he discovered farmer could possibly have. If such a grass could beauty. The broadcloths were few. Some beaustrong symptoms of fire in the large mass of hay. be procured in England, it would be well wor- tiful flannels were exhibited, which were manufacHe had known of its being very warm, time past, thy the attention of our farmers to procure it.-tured at Amesbury, Massachusetts. The first pre(not uncommon in such cases,) but lately a black It grows to the height of six feet, and the roots miums, of $15 each, for the best broadcloth and smoke had issued from a certain spot of the mow; penetrate to the depth of fifteen and twenty feet. the best carpeting, were given; the former to Mr. about midway but near to the floor, from whence it This would appear almost incredible to us, who are Thomas Botternly, of Leicester; and the latter to had been pitched in, being more compacted by the strangers to it. I hope the necessary inquiry will Mrs. Ethan Davis, of Holden. The second, of $10 treading of those who had stowed it away. The be made, to obtain, if possible, this extraordinary each-the former to Slater & Howard, of Oxford, whole depth of hay was thirty-two feet, being a two and valuable grass. and the latter to Mrs. Gideon Delano, of New story barn, containing upwards of a thousand dozen Braintree. The best premium for flannel was of wheat, as well as hay. awarded to David Goodall, of Oakham, $10. Pre[The Sainfoin has been cultivated in America-miums to the amount of $40 were distributed amongst other competitors in the various branches I have the honour to be, VERITAS. PENNSYLVANIA CATTLE SHOW. of domestic manufactures. About 160 neat cattle, and 134 sheep, and swine were exhibited. There was also a team of 78 yoke of working oxen, owned in Worcester, which were pronounced the best which had been exhibited there. A beautiful horse, Roman, belonging to Mr. Williams, was also exhibited. Fifteen teams started in the ploughing match, which appears to have been well contested. Nearly $200 was distributed in premiums, besides those we have enumerated above. It gave alarm to the neighbours who volunteered their services to the number of about sixty hands. They had several hogsheads filled with water taken some was brought from France, we believe, by Mr. into the threshing floor, and kept in readiness to ap- Crawford. We hope to hear from some corresponply, as need might require. They cut round the dent in reply to Veritas, and shall ourselves give an heated part, and removed about twenty tons that was account of this grass, as it is known and esteemed not materially injured, still keeping the focus of heat in other countries.] for their centre. The removal of the quantity aforesaid, brought them to the sample enclosed, completely charred, or carbonated, as I supposed when I took it from the heap hauled out in the field; but, The Exhibition of Cattle and Manufactures, held on close examination since, I found my mistake, the at Mount Pleasant, under the auspices and direction carbonated part was broken up fine in handling. of the Pennsylvania Agricultural Society, termiThis specimen has the pyroligneous acid yet retain-nated on Friday, and gave throughout, the highest It is supposed that the show of domestic manued, as it had not yet escaped, being cooled in mov- satisfaction to the multitude of spectators who ap factures would have been greater, but for the ocing, [very discoverable to the taste;] but there was peared on the ground. No better situation could currence of the exhibition at Philadelphia nearly at about ten tons drawn out into the field as useless, have been chosen for the purpose, whether as to the same time. [Nat. Journal. except for manure, the greater portion of it carbo-facility of access, or convenience and picturesque nated completely, the cattle ate it freely, but it had beauty. It is calculated that four thousand persons a scowering effect on them. were present on Thursday. The horses, horned This focus of heat had concentrated into about cattle, hogs, &c. collected for the occasion, from no eight feet diameter, as appeared by the effect; be- inconsiderable distances, are probably not surpassginning within a foot or two of the bottom, and ris-ed, if equalled, in any part of the Union. Much ing perpendicularly about fifteen feet, leaving the attention was paid to the specimens of domestic part on which the heat had fully operated, (eight manufactures also; and these likewise are fitted to feet diameter,) carbonated, and was yet on its pro- excite admiration for the progress already made, gress upward, when stopped by moving the confine- and the most confident expectation of general imment above. The greatest danger appeared when provement. A striking proof of the utility of such they began to disturb the carbonated part, as sparks exhibitions is found in the deep interest which so of fire, frequently appeared by admitting the atmos-large a number of respectable farmers take in them. pheric air to it while it remained so heated; it seem- They meet, not merely to view and study the breeds ed that all that was wanting to have made a general which they respectively possess, but to interchange conflagration of the barn and all its contents, was a ideas and facts upon all the branches of husbandry sufficiency of air. which they cultivate, and to establish an intercourse of business advantageous to all parties. SEA ISLAND COTTON CROP. Report of the Beaufort Agricultural Society. TheBeaufort Agricultural Society, in order to ascertain the extent of the damage done to the cotton crop, on Port Royal and Paris islands, appointed committees to inquire into the same, within their several districts. They report as follows: Wm. Elliot and Wm. J. Grayson, But timely application of water on every appear ance of ignition, had the desired effect. It had an On Friday, ploughing matches took place and alarming appearance to see fire sparkling in the mid- premiums were distributed. After which, the direc- Do. dle of a large barn, filled with so much combustible tors and members of the Society, along with sevematter, and the men in the midst of it. ral invited guests, sat down to an excellent dinner S. The owner informed me that putting in a few at the Red Lion tavern. Jonathan Roberts, Presiwagon loads of the first of his crop, on a drizzling dent of the society, presided at the table; Mr. Pow- E. or wet day, in the bottom of that mow, he thought el, whose contingent to the exhibition was so valuacaused the extraordinary heat, or at least commenc-ble, and whose services as a member of the society J. ed the business. It might be worth observing this are most important, was unfortunately obliged to as a precaution, as rain water is abundantly more return home in the morning, in consequence of a For injurious to hay, than the same quantity of moisture fall; from which, however, no serious consequences from its own juices-independent of the danger of are apprehended. Various appropriate toasts were generating fire. drunk, in the course of the repast, and samples of fine domestic wines circulated that did not diminish its zest. C. KIRK. P. S. I saw the most simple and efficient machine for taking out grain, in the barn above noted, that has ever come under my observation. When * Which may be seen at the office of the American Farmer, by any person curious to examine it.-EDIT. for Battery neck, Port Royal island Acres planted. Bags gathered in. 796 104 56 160 625 66 41 107 not reported, supposed to be 240 Dr. Darlington, of Westchester, delivered, on 33 655 2072 1417 MIDDLESEX AGRICULTURAL EXHIBI TION. vered the oration. Col. Valentine declined a reelection to the office of President of the Society, and Rufus Hosmer, Esq., was elected to that office. Dr. Josiah Bartlett is Corresponding Secretary. BRIDGEWATER CATTLE SHOW. The Bridgewater Cattle Show, and Exhibition of manufactures and produce, has met an increased attention this year from the farmers of the county of Plymouth, who on the 5th instant, assembled at Bridgewater, at an early hour, to celebrate their yearly festival, and "harvest home." INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT. undertaken at the expense and risk of individuals. its population more than doubles every ten yearsTo this there are two strong objections. First: It for in 1820 it was 2,233,535 souls, whereas in 1810 The Middlesex Agricultural Exhibition was very and capital, commensurate with such an undertak- than 3,200,000 at present, and will probably conis more than probable, that individual enterprise it was only 1,022,604; that it scarcely contains less gratifying. Sixty pens were filled with excellent cattle, sheep and swine. The strength of working ing, could not be commanded. Secondly: The ad- tain above 4,000,000 in 1830; that a large portion oxen was tested by drawing heavy loads up a steep vantages are too numerous and important to be of it nearly trebles its numbers in ten years; for the ascent, and the ploughing match was well contest-surrendered into the hands of any individuals. How population of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tened. The Rev. Charles Briggs, of Lexington, deli- calamitous would it not be to the state of New nessee, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Michigan York, had she been so far misguided as to allow and Arkansas, in 1810, was only 616,093, whereas her canals to be executed by companies, who would in 1820, it was 1,669,336!* that the steam boats, monopolize their benefits in perpetuity! We trust which will transport the produce of a large portion Pennsylvania will never commit an error so hope- of those countries to Pittsburg, stem the current of less of remedy. We trust she will never part with the rivers at the rate of 150 miles per day; and that the sovereignty she holds over her majestic rivers, such are the advantages of this important section nor cede to any corporation, however guarded by of our country, such the fertility of its soil, and legislative provisions, the power and right over the such the increase of its population and cultivation, great means of intercourse between the east and that at no distant day it cannot fail to afford full the west, and between the north and the south. As employment for the New York, the Pennsylvania, state works, accomplished by state means, regula- and the Potomac and Ohio canals. The mind can ted by state laws, and interwoven with state inte- hardly grasp the extent of the advantages which rests, they will be the pride and boast of every thus court our acceptance, and the splendour of the Pennsylvanian. As links of a chain of adamant, prospects which open to our view. they will bind every part of the commonwealth to- In the compass of an address, it cannot be allowgether; and as the common property of all, they ed us to present for your consideration and estiwill create and strengthen kindred feelings, and mate, all the advantages which will flow from the make our citizens a band of brothers, with no other completion of a communication between the eastern TO THE CITIZENS OF PENNSYLVANIA. rivalship_than that which honest industry and en- waters and the Ohio and Lake Erie; nor could we (Concluded from p. 245, American Farmer.) lightened patriotism will approve; with no other expect your attention, were we to endeavour to anobjects but the common good of all. Surrender swer every objection which might be stated to the With this answer we might remain content. But to others the right to execute such works for indi- undertaking. Some of the most prominent arguwe are much more gratified to be able to say, as vidual emolument, and all these rich and grateful ments in its favour, and a limited exhibition of the we can do with entire confidence, that such appre- anticipations will be lost, and the means to attain large benefits to be derived from it, we have reprehensions are not well founded. Among the most them will be gone forever. sented to you; a few of the difficulties which have strenuous opposers of the Erie canal were the proIn this address, we have cautiously forborne to been alleged as interfering with its execution, we prietors of the great western turnpike, from Albatouch on rail roads as a medium of opening the have attempted to remove or diminish. But it would ny to Buffalo, who augured nothing less than the destruction of their property from this measure. proposed communication; not by any means be- be an imperfect execution of the honorable trust as The event has proved how grossly they were mis- cause we are hostile to them, but because our in- sigued to us by the Convention, were we to pass formation on the subject is not sufficiently matured over two considerations, the influence of which we taken. The travelling has greatly increased-five to warrant us in forming a decisive opinion. From know is extensive with some of our most respectatimes as many stages are run on the road-the the various accounts published, in support of them ble fellow citizens. It is asserted that when a comheavy wagons which used to destroy it, have nearly in England, by their friends, they appear to have munication between the east and the west shall be all disappeared-the repairs are greatly diminished, and the dividends increased in the same proportion. important advantages. Their advocates are so san-made in the manner proposed, the markets of the Whatever gives activity to commercial intercourse, guine as to believe that they may ultimately super- Atlantic capitals will be glutted with the producsede canals altogether. This is certainly very tions of agriculture; and, it is also said, that the must multiply the use of roads. Neither can we doubtful. Should they, however, be found, on a value of property in the neighbourhood of those believe that transportation by wagons, though its fair trial, to realize the anticipations formed of them, capitals, will be lessened, as the most distant redirection may be changed, will suffer diminution. Produce will be hauled to the canal, at different and none of our citizens will be more eager to se- furnish those supplies, at a rate much lower than we hope and trust they will be preferred to canals, gions will have a cheap access to them, and thus points, and it can be hauled from great distances. cure that preference than those who now address they can be afforded by those who have paid high Such a communication, in its effects, is like a great you. It cannot be denied, if they prevent the ne- prices for their farms, and expended large sums in navigable river, accessible throughout its whole cessity of the expensive and tedious operation of the buildings erected on them. course, and to which every avenue tends. It cretunnelling, as their advocates assert, that they may The answers to the first objection have been furates activity, instead of destroying it. be eminently serviceable as subsidiary to canals, in nished by experience, and are obtained from the If, however, these apprehensions were better surmounting elevated regions where there is a soundest principles of political economy. Consumpfounded than they are, what would be the rational scarcity of water. tion will always be, and has always been, in proporconclusion to be derived from them? It is no longer We venture to suggest the following observations tion to supply. As the quantity of the necessaries a question whether transportation from west to east, to the consideration of the public. There are, we and comforts of human life is increased, population and from east to west, shall be by turnpike roads apprehend, certain portions of the space on each has always increased, and will increase. Industry and wagons. That is already decided. The great side of the mountains, which are calculated for all is promoted by plenty; new wants are created by rivers of the west are offering the most inviting the locations of the route which are contemplated. it, and the means to gratify these wants are obtainfacilities to a communication with the ocean by the Arrangements might be made for commencing with ed by augmented exertions. Such has been the ef south. On the north, the magnificent production these at once, as soon as surveys are made. We fect of internal improvements upon all the large of New York intelligence and enterprise, presents should thus gain time, and greatly accelerate the cities in England, Scotland and Wales. It has been a navigable connection with the east. On our found in every one of them, that the number of southern border, a new avenue is to be opened by progress of this most important undertaking. In reflecting on this grand subject, it ought to be their inhabitants has in most instances doubled, and the Ohio and Potomac. It is not a question, there-borne in mind, that it is a work not merely for the in that of two or three has more than trebled since fore, whether Pennsylvania shall transfer the carriage present generation, but for remote posterity; that the introduction of turnpikes and canals. We must from turnpike roads to a canal of her own, but the the canal will offer a direct communication with the be allowed to refer to some facts in support of these real question, and a most solemn one it must undoubt whole of the countries watered by the magnificent edly be deemed is, whether Pennsylvania shall lose lakes and waters of the west; that there is at pre- 50 trips in the year. If they carry only half cargoes, the carriage altogether? sent a steam-boat and a keel-boat navigation in that they will amount to about 25,000 tons annually. This If in this amicable, and not unworthy rivalship section of the United States, of 20,000 miles; that will make an aggregate of 65,000 tons, which will be that is to be maintained, Pennsylvania cannot apconstantly and rapidly increasing, probably trebling or proach nearer to the efforts of her neighbours than quadrupling, in four or five years. by roads and wagons, we pronounce distinctly that *There are on the United States side of Lake Erie, *Alabama and Mississippi, in 1800, contained 8,856 she cannot support the competition, and must yield tonnage is about 2300 tons. They make about 25 trips 105,602; in 1820, 422,613. Ohio, in 1800, 45,365; in at present, 56 vessels navigated by sails, of which the inhabitants; in 1820, 219,756. Tennessee, in 1800, up a large portion of her immense natural advan-in the year, generally fully loaded, so that their cargoes 1820, 581,434 Louisiana, in 1810, 20,845; in 1820, tages to those enterprising neighbours. may amount to above 50,000 tons, but say only 40,000. 153,407. Indiana and Illinois, in 1810, 36,801; in 1820, It has been said, that this work, like the Union The steam vessels, built and building, are five, of which 202,389. What stupendous views these facts open for sanal and the Schuylkill navigation, ought to be the tonnage averages 210 tons. They will make about reflection! |