Jasper County Democrat, Volume 5, Number 21, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 August 1902 — A REVIEW OF THE SEVERAL COUNTY AND DISTRICT FAIR ASSOCIATIONS OF INDIANA [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

A REVIEW OF THE SEVERAL COUNTY AND

DISTRICT FAIR ASSOCIATIONS OF INDIANA

COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATIONS First Agricultural Societies Organized in Indiana. THE GREAT ADVANTAGES WHICH THE VARIOUS COUNTIES DERIVED FROM THEM. Exhibits of Agricultural and Horticultural Products, Live Stock, Poultry, the Dairy and the Home. AWARDING PREMIUMS CREATES A HEALTHY EMULATION IN EVERY DEPARTMENT OF FARM WORK AND ENTERPRISE. The Literature of Agriculture Advanced to a Higher Plane by Addresses, Essays and Discussions.

There are In Indiana at this date, 1902, county agricultural associations, thoroughly equipped for business and doing a great work in promoting the interests of agriculture In the counties where they are located and generally' exerting a salutary Influence upon the farming interests of the state. The rirst Asociations. It may be difficult to determine which of them all was the pioneer organization, but so far as a cursory examination of the records has been practicable, the fact is disclosed that the distinction is due to I'arke county, which organized an association in 1*37, or fourteen years prior to the organization of the state board of agriculture. The Parke county association in that early time had many difficulties to contend with, but It was made up of plucky men, men whose faith was the •'substance of things hoped for” and “the evidence of things not seen.” They were men tenacious of purpose, to whom, like —S-’ampbell's wizard, “coming events cast theif ghttdows before." They had faith in Indiana—ln Its soil,, its fields and its forests. Others might sigh for a better country, but Indiana was good enough for them, and the facts, as presented in the history of the state relating to agriculture, evince that they were men of prescient vision and were willing to work and wait for the consummation of their expectation. There were other counties whose agricMltural societies antedate the organization of the state board of agriculture, as. for Instance, Monroe and Morgan counties. 1849 and 1850. Advantages Secured by County Organization*. It is easy enough to affirm that great advantages have accrued to the counties in which agricultural associations have been organized, but to particularize and epitomize such advantages Is an onerous task not easily accomplished. In holding their annual fairs they bring together the farm population of the county and inaugurate a week of holidays, in which there Is a ceaseless round of rational and healthful enjoyments. The cattle, horses, sheep and swine, specimens of wheat, corn, oats and barley, the products of the dairy, together with those of the orchard, with the numerous specimens of the handiwork of women constitute an exposition of rare merit and of far-reaching Influence. Nor is this all. Inventors and the mechanic* attend these fairs and the latest improvements in Implements and machinery are exhibited for the choice of farmers. Besides there Is the race track, where candidates for fame on the turf may make their Initial venture for it. Taken altogether the county agricultural association Is without controversy an Institution of merit which It would be difficult to exaggerate. Awarding Premiums, The county agricultural associations In ■holding their fairs do not overlook the supreme Importance of awarding premiums for the best things named in the various . classes of exhibits, which In the aggregate amount to a considerable sum, the value of which is vastly in excess of the awards. The premium, though It may be email, attaches special Importance to ■whatever secures it, not only adding to Its value, but giving to the individual who secures it enviable distinction in the community, and in this way the premium becomes a factor in progressive agriculture it would be difficult to overestimate. And if all the premiums awarded by county agricultural association* could be ascertained the sum total would be in the nature of a revelation and go far in explanation of Indiana's triumphs in agriculture. The Literature of Agriculture. The term "literature" in this connection I* restricted to the meetings of county agricultural associations when addresses are delivered and essays and papers read h*ving in view the general welfare of agriculture or some one of it* numerous department*. There have been thousand* of such production* In Indiana during the past half century, and we may estimate their Influence by the progress everywhere observable in agricultural affair* in Indiana. Steadily, a* the years have gone by, old things have passed away, and, "behold! all things are new.” The new thing* are better than the old thing*. This, however, whether fact or fiction, matter* little. Progress, science, learning la now th* order and no man nor combination of men will find it of any use to cry "Whoa." Farming is rising to the dignity of a profession and by the transforming influence of knowledge the farmer boys of today are to be among the world’s great men of tomorrow, and this new order of things is to be more permanently established in the future by the ever accelerating forces put in operation by county agricultural associations. Historical Data. As ha* been eaid, there are in Indiana now in operation agricultural associations, sometimes designated a* "talr association*.” but all having the flgme pur-

pose in view, viz., the advancement of agricultural Interests, and to what extent satisfaction may be secured in writing historical sketches of the various associations will depend, in some measure, at least, upon the data supplied by their secretaries. Eastern Indiana Agricultural Association—Noble County. When the question of Indiana, as an agricultural state. Is up for debate Noble county must be considered because of Its yield of all the staple crops of the state, the product in 1900 of wheat, corn, oats, rye and barley aggregating 2,379.344 bushels, of which wheat supllled 221,193 and barley 18,144 bushels. The county also produced 50,025 tons of timothy and clover hay. 138,793 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 72,183 head of live stock. Certainly Noble county must be reckoned with in agricultural affairs which give renown to the state. It is a prosperous county, having in 1900 a population of 23,533, a slight gain in ten years, and the value of its property between 1890 and 1900 increased $5,087,796. Noble county is in the extreme northeastern portion of the state, 125 miles from Indianapolis, and has an area of 420 square miles, havijig a full quota of fivers and small streams besides many small lakes which beautify the landscape and add to the attractiveness of the county. Noble county Is also celebrated for its horticultural products, especially Its apples and pears. The Eastern Indiana Agricultural association was organized In 1883, and Its first officers were N. B. Newman, president; Freeman Tabor, vice-president; I. S. Conlougie, secretary, and John Mitchell, treasurer. The present officers of the association are: President, C. M. Case; vice-presi-dent, J. 11. Eley; secretary. J. 8. Conlogue; treasurer, John Mitchell. The association has held fairs annually since the date of its organization and the premiums and prices It has paid average $2,650 annually, or about $50,000. The attendance upon the fairs ranging from 10,000 to 23,000, is indicative of their popularity, and that al! the people of Noble county are profoundly Interested in their success. The association has fifty-two acres in its fair grounds situated within the corporate limits of the city of Kendallville. which, with the buildings, has cost $9,000, and all is In good condition. There are no other fairs in Noble county and of the nineteen fairs held not one has been a failure, and all the premiums and purses have been paid In full and no prorating has been permitted. Such is a brief history of the Noble county fair, which reflects credit upon the management as also upon the farmers of the county. Richland Live Stock and Agricultural Association—Fountain County. The reason* why Fountain county should have and maintain an agriculture society of commanding Influence are numerous and cognent. The county is justly and widely distinguished for its fertility of soil and for its agricultural products. It has an area of 409 square miles and the land included within Its boundary, whether bottom or upland, Is extremely fertile and the farmers obtain a generous return for their Investments and labor. Besides, Fountain county has rich deposits of coal which add to the value of its lands. The county is well watered and has excellent railroad facilities for shipping to surrounding or distant markets. In 1900 Fountain county produced 3,749,483 bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye, 24,848 tons of timothy and clover hay, 37,275 bushels of Irish potatoes and had on Its farms 55,733 head of live stock. In 1900 Fountain county had a population of 21,446, a gain in ten years of 1,888. and during the same period the value of It* property increased $4,863,056. Such data supports the conclusion that Fountain county should have an agricultural association exerting a healthy influence, not only in the county where it operates but upon surrounding counties. The agricultural society of which we write, and which holds Its fairs at Newton, was organized In 1885 with the following named officers: J. W. Melvin, president; H. 8. Wilson, secretary, and Jo Reed, treasurer. • The present officers of the association are G. W. Parnell, president; A. A. Vandervolgen, vicepresident; Thomas Shultz, secretary, and George Duncan, treasurer. The association holds annual fairs with an attendance of about 2,000, and has paid annual premiums averaging SBOO, and the fair grounds and buildings are valued at SBOO. There 1* a fair held at Covington which Is not doing much In the way of live stock and farm product exhibit*. The Richland Live Stock and Agricultural association started seventeen years ago with a few sucking col* has been growing in Importance each year, until now there are two full days devoted to live stock, and more horses, cattle, hogs and sheep are on exhibition than In any other fair in the county. F. A. Nave is one of th* contributors to the fair in cattle and is one of the most celebrated breeders of Hereford* in tha United States, and this

year the association's fair will surpass any previous year in the way of fine stock exhibits. Johnson County Agricultural, Horticultural and Park Association. While in numerous Instances it is found difficult to obtain data relating to county agricultural societies the history of the Johnson County association, supplied by W. S. Young, secretary, is voluminous and Interesting to an extent which occasions special regret that the space at our command Is limited to the severest brevity, though a column could scaicely do justice to the subject. Johnson county was created by an act of the legislature in 1822, a:id has an area of 312ta square miles of good land, once heavily timbered, requiring the pioneers to cut down and deaden the forest trees as initial steps to open a farm, but the people, sixteen years after the county had a place on the map of the state —1838 —held the first agricultural fair and th* men who held that fair "in th* woods" sixty-four years ago were puissant; they set the pace of progress, and now after all sorts of mutations, Johnson county has an agricultural association worthy of the name, organized In 1888, and officered as follows: Dr. W. M. Province, president; Sidney Johnson, vice-president; N. D. Yancy, secretary; Samuel Harris, treasurer, and Caleb B. Tarlton, general superintendent. The first fair held under this new’ association was Sept. 17 to 21, 1889. The people of the county rallied to its support and at once realized the pleasure and profit of a successful county fair. The present officers of the association are John Tilson, president; Caleb B. Tarlton, vice-president; William S. Yancy, secretary; Samuel Harris, treasurer, and Will G. Oliver, general superintendent. The annual fairs of the association are now held in the last week of August. The amount paid in premiums in all departments, except special, is annually about $3,000; the amount In purses on account of races Is $1,450, and the average daily attendance runs from 3,000 to 5.000 people. The properties of the association, including department buildings, grand stands, stalls and pens for live stock and race track are valued at $7,000. The fair grounds is beautiful and attractive, located half a mile west of the business center of the city of Franklin, with plenty of shade and water for the convenience and pleasure of the people. The fair association is one of the popular institutions of the county. It has always paid all premiums and expenses of holding the fairs in full with a small surplus each year In the treasury. Ail species of gambling, immoral and indecent shows and the sale of Intoxicating liquor are rigidly exeluded from the grounds. It is run purely on the assumption that the fair should be an educator of the people of the county and vicinity, not only on agricultural lines, but morals as well. It goes without the saying, that In counties where agricultural associations flourish and successful fairs are held, the farmers, as a class, are wide awake and up to date on all matters pertaining to the cultivation of the soil and it is said of Johnson county that It is one of the finest cultivated portions of Indiana. In 1900 the yield of its cereal crops amounted to 2.909.468 bushels. The product of timothy and clover hay was 34,053 tons, with 7,806 bushels of Irish potatoes, and its live stock numbered 79 397 head. Its fair this year, 1902., Aug. 26 to 30. Posey County Agricultural Society. Posey county has an area of 420 square miles and a soil of fabulous fertility, producing in 1900, of wheat, corn, oats and rye. 3.724.785 bushels, of which 1,831,063 bushels were wheat, of timothy and clover hay the product was 32,132 tons, of Irish potatoes 65,512 busnels and the live stock on hand. 1900, numbered 28,896 head. The population of Posey county in 1900 was 22,333, a gam in ten years of 801, and the value of its property, between 1890 and 1900, increased $3,356,080. That Posey county early took an intelligent interest in agricultural affairs is shown by the fact that its first agricultural society was organized Sept. 12, 1835, and its officers were Jacob Schnee, president; William Casey, vice-president; John Cooper, treasurer; Robert Dale Owen, recording secretary, and Louis Gex, corresponding secretary. In the same year the New Harmony Jockey club was organized, Robert Dale Owen being one of the prime movers in its organization, and races were held as early as 1836. This agricultural society held fairs in 1837-38-39-40, and '4l, but the records of this Interesting period have been lost. It b oms that from 1849 to 1858, a period of eighteen years, the Agricultural society of Posey county disappeared from view, but the seed sown by the first association. though apparently dead, retained its vitality and in 1858 the organization of the present Posey County Agricultural society was secured, and its first officers were; President—The Hon. M. T. Carnahan. Vice-President—John Moody. Secretary—Col. Richard Owen. Corresponding Secretary—Julius C. Miller. Treasurer—Samuel Archer. On Oct. 25 to 28, 1859, Inclusive, the association held its first fair with an attendance of from 5,000 to 6,000 persons, and ths receipts from all sources amounted to $1,232.88. From this date fairs have been regularly held by the society and the receipts for twenty-one years, as the records show, aggregate $72,676.20. which does not Include receipts for 1861-62 and *63. How much of the receipts were paid out for premiums is not stated, the presumption being, as the exhibits t have been large, the premiums have been liberal. The present officers of the association are: Alfred Rlbeyce, president; Henry Brown, vice-president; George C. Taylor, secretary and W. W. Roil, treasurer. The outlook for the fair. 1902. Is cheering and the management anticipate that It will be the banner fair of the society. Bremen Agricultural Society—Marshall County. The Bremen Agricultural society, organized June 14, 1889, has been a success from tha start. It holds fairs annually, and since its organization, thirteen years ago, has paid premiums aggregating $15,000. The first officers of the society were: President—Morgan D. Fink. Vice-President—John Huff. Secretary—Henry W. Miller. Treasurer—John R. Dietrigh. T<ie present officers of the society are John Graverson, president; John Huff, vice-president; D. G. Ditty, secretary, and Jacob Carblener, treasurer. The Bremen Agricultural society operates In Marshall county, 115 mile* from Inrianapolls. which Is one of the large counties of the state, having an area of 441 square miles. The county had a population in 1900 of 25,119, a gain In ten years of 1,301, which for an agricultural county speaks well for soil, products and general prosperity This is further evidenced by the production in 1900 of 3,067,250 bushels of corn, oats and rye, 203,313 bushels of Irish potatoes and 17,841 tons of timothy and clover hay—as also to the fact that it has on hand 56.998 head of live stock. As another evidence of prosperity th* value of the property of Marshall county, between the years 1890 and 1900, increased $5,138,010. It is not surprising, therefore, that Marshall county supports a prosperous agricultural society, and liberally patronizes the fair given under Its auspices, the average attendance being annually 8.0000. The value of the ran grounds and buildings of the society 1s given at $5,000. and the premiums awarded have always been paid In full and the society, with the exception of two year*,

has paid dividends of 10 per cent, on Its $5,000 o f capital stock and does not owe a dollar to any one. The society has a splendid speed track and holds the state record of 2:07 made by Castle’s William Mack In 1901. Boonville Fair Association—Warrick County. Warrick county had a population In 1900 of 22,329, a gain during the previous decade of LI6S. It has an area of 388 square miles, borders on the Ohio river, adjoins Vanderburg county on the east, Is justly famous for the production of tobacco, and

is rich In the deposits of coal. The Boonville Fair association was organized Feb. 7. 1896, and a fair was held in 1895, before the permanent organization was completed. The first officers of the association were: President, Clanor Pelzer; first vice-pres-ident, Henry C. Meyer; second vice-presi-dent, C. H. Taylor; secretary, S. N Taylor; treasurer, A. L. Beeler; general superintendent, T. A. Scalis. The association has held fairs annually and each fair has shown marked Improvement over the year before. The annual premiums on agricultural products and stock average about $1,200, and the purses for races amount to about $2,000, and the average attendance of the fair Is from 7,000 to 8,600 people. The fair grounds of the association are large, well shaded and amply supplied with water from the Boonville water works. The entrance to the grounds is just four squares from the public square, making them convenient for the people of the city. The fair buildings are large and commodious and the amphitheater will seat 2,500 people. Besides these the association has erected two large barns for the accommodation of race horses, which add Indefinitely to the attractiveness of the fair, especially to those who patronize the races, and the grounds and buildings are valued at SB,OOO. The association has prospered from the beginning of its career. It has no debts. On the contrary it has SI,OOO loaned and drawing interest. The present officers of the association are: President. Ciamon Pelzer; vice-presi-dent, C. H. Taylor; second vice-president, George J. Roth; secretary. I. F. Richardson; treasurer, A. L. Buler; general superintendent, C. C. Ferguson. The outlook for the Boonville association is eminently cheering and continuous prosperity seems to be guaranteed. Fulton County Agricultural and Mechanical Association. Fulton county has an area of 380 square miles of land having average fertility, which generally produces satisfactory crops of wheat, corn. oats, rye and barley. and in 1900 these cereals, excepting wheat, aggregated 2.611.197 bushels. The county produced in 1900 12,977 tons of timothy and clover hay, 62.748 bushels of Irish potatoes and had to Its credit 49,331 head of live stock. In 1900 Fulton county had a population of 17.453, a gain in ten years ot 707. and the value of its property between 1890 and 1900 increased $4,412,815. Such tlg-

urea indicate that Fulton county is a good place to organize and maintain a vigorous agricultural association. In addition to Its farms and timber lands, Fulton county has numerous beautiful lakes, among them the justly celebrated Manitou lake, which has about thirty varieties of fish, with eight species of turtles. It is not surprising, -therefore, that anglers of the Izaak Walton type seek its waters to capture its finny treasures. Mr. F. F. More, secretary of the Fulton County Agricultural and Mechanical association, which was organized in 1857, writes: “I will answer your circular In short form, ’ ana says the association, with the exception

of four years, has held fairs annually, which would be forty-one fairs. The first officers of the association were: President—William Mackey. Vice-President—William P. Ball. Secretary—David Pusling. Treasurer—Nathan Shields. The present officers of the association are: President—Arch Stinson. Vice-President—R P. True. Secretary—F. F. Moon. Treasurer—J. Dawson. The premiums paid by the association aggregate $2,200, but whether for one year or for forty-one years, we are not informed, and the attendance is stated at about 20,000. We are also Informed that the fair grounds and buildings are valued at $5,500. The secretary further says: “The fairs for the last two years have exceeded all others. Quite an interest is taken and prospects are very good for a large exhibit this year.” Clinton County Fair Association. Clinton county, in area, soil, productiveness. W’ealth and intelligence is an average county. Without large streams it Is well centered*and has the advantage of large railroad facilities to reach surrounding markets. It has an area of 4UB square miles of field and forests, and in 1990 produced 4,144,957 bushels of corn, oats and rye; 31,860 bushels of Irish potatoes. and 49.019 tons of timothy and clover hay, and its live stock amounted to 68,343 head. In 19u0 Clinton county had a population of 28,302, a gain of 932 in ten years, and the value of its property beteween 1890 and 1900 Increased $7,386,000. A good showing upon which the farmers of the county may feel encouraged In their efforts to maintain an agricultural association to still further promote the prosperity of the county. The Clinton County Fair association was organized in 1870, with Enos Hoover, president; Oscar S. Bayless, secretary, and Harmon Aughce, treasurer. The preAnt officers' of the association are: George Smith, president;, William Rose, vice-president; Joseph Heavilon, secretary: Hez M. Cohee. treasurer; James Snyder, superintendent of grounds, and J. A. "Heagcook, superintendent of privileges. The association has held fairs annually since its organization, and has paid premiums aggregating $150,000; the attendance has averaged 14,000 and the grounds and building are valued at SIO,OOO. The organization of the Clinton County Fair association wasfceffected by 100

stockholders composed of the progressive citizens of the county. It remained as a stock company until 1899, when a reorganization was made upon the plan of a partnership with limited liability. The history of the association is not unlike that of kindred institutions of the state. Many time* it was only by a strenuous effort that the association was kept alive. Three years ago it was handicapped with an indebtedness of over SI,OOO. This has since been paid and the management is now free from indebtedness and tn a prosperous condition, and the prospects for this season are flattering and, barring weather, it will prove one of the best years of the association. Premiums aggregating $8,500 are guarantefea in full. There are many special features, among which are the special premiums on agricultural products of Clinton county only, amounting to S7OO. The merchants of Frankfort and other towns of thie county are taking an interest heretofore not manifest, and are offering many special premiums on wheat, corn and products ot the dairy. All in all, Clinton county fair is second to none in the state and will continue to promote Improvements among the people of central Indiana. The Bedford, Lawrence County, Fair Association. In 1890 the Bedford Fair association was organized with: President—A. C. Vorip. Vlce-Presldenf—T. O. Daggy. Secretary—Frank O. Stannard. Treasurer—James McClelland. The present officers iof the association are: President—S. T. Zollman. Secretary—George W. McDaniel. Treasurer—Gus Meyer. The association has held annua! fairs since the date of its organization and the premiums it has paid aggregate $3.5.000. The fairs held by the association are well attended and the aggregate attendance is estimated at 100.000. The fair grounds and buildings are valued at SB,OOO. Lawrence county ite one of the large counties of the state, having an area of 438 square miles. It! is a well watered county and is fairly productive of the staple crops of the state, having produced in 190 i) 1,205,647 bushels of wheat, corn, cats and rye. It also produced 31,264 bushels of Irish potatoes, 35,975 tons of timothy and clover hjay, and had on hand 35.307 head of live stock. In 1900 Lawrence county iiad a population of 25.729, a gala in ten years of 5,957. and the value of Its property for the same period increased $3,081,670. In addition to Its agricultural products Lawrence county has immense deposits of oolitic limestone, one of the best known building stones of the United S The Bedford fair is the only one held in Lawrence county anti has always paid its premiums in full and the association anticipates a fair this year—l9o2—in all regards superior to any it has ever held. The race purses are all s3*lo each, and

under the management of the officers of the association the turfmen know they will get fair treatment and their money In full. Special attractions provided by the association always attract the old and the young and the quarry Interests of th* county, which pay out from $70,000 to SBO.000 a month for labor, shut down for thre* days during fair week, which contributes largely to the success of the fairs Dubois County Agricultural Society. Dubois takes rank among the most important counties of southern Indiana, having an area of 432 square miles, which include rich farming lands and a largo area of timber, and, In addition, largo deposits of coal, and. still more, it has a quality of clay pronounced by experts to be excellent for the manufacture of white crockery ware. It is a well-watered county, favorable for farming and stock raising, and some of its streams afford excellent water power. In 1900 Dubois county prouced, of wheat, corn, oats, ry* and barley, 2,8*30.101 bushels, 36.172 ton* of timothy and clover hay, 49,416 bushel* of Irish potatoes and had on hand 30,986 head of live stock. The population of Dubois county In 1900 was 20,357, * slight gain on 1890, and from 1890 to 1900 the value of its property increased $2,267,744. With such figures in view the conclusion will be that the farmers of Dubol* county may maintain a healthy, progressive and Influential agricultural association, and this is true of the county. Its association was organized in the spring of 1887, with the following board of officers: Herman Rothert, president; Christian Roettger, vice-president; David Reutepohler, treasurer, and E. R. Brundick, secretary. The present officer* ot the association are: President—E. W. Plckhardt. Vice-President—C. Moenkhaus. Secretary—H. C. Rothert. Treasurer —H. Duffendach. General Superintendent—H. Landgrebe. The secretary of the association says: "Annual fairs have been held and about $50,000 has been paid out in premiums. The average annual attendance has been about twelve thousand, the aggregate being 180.000 in fifteen years. Our grounds comprise forty acres containing the bestshaded grove in the state and a good half-mile track. “Value of grounds and buildings, $6,000. Three years ago the association was reorganized under the name of the Dubois County Fair association with the following stockholders: Joseph Birk, Joseph Greener, Andy Greener and H. C. Rothert. In the early 70's a fair was held at

Jupef. this county, but th* organization continued only a few years. Our fair has been successful from the beginning and great improvement In live stock and farm products in this and adjoining counties has been a natural result" Swayzee Tri-County Fair Association —Grant County. This association was organised Dee. 11, last and the fair to be held this year. Bent 2 to 5, inclusive, win be the eleventh tn regular session. The first officers of the association were: President—B. N. Leisure Vice-President—N. J. Pierce. Secretary—William Smith, yeeasnrer—Anderson Johnson. The present officers of the association are: President—G. W. McManlnan. Treasurer—H. T. Munro. Secretary—E. C. King. The association has held fairs annually since Its organization and the premiums it has paid In the aggregate are *1.500 to *2.000, and the attendance has averaged

ICOO persons. The fair grounds and buildings of the association are valued at about *2.000, their first cost. The Swayzee Tri-County Fair association may not be is pretentious as some others in the «tate, but ft goes right along and is found lolng business regularly at the old stand. Huntington County Agricultural Society. The people of Huntington county as arty as 1867 saw the necessity for and he advantages to be derived from a veil-conducted agricultural association, nd therefore organized such a society, vhlch has been in operation thirty-five ears, and has held, less three years, anual fairs during the entire period. Huntington county has an area of 384 quare miles, and. being well watered and aving a rich soil, is one of the favored gricultural counties of the state, proucing in 1900 2,580.630 bushels of wheat, om. oats, rye and barley. It also prouced 51.132 tons of timothy and clover ay. 85.ijc6 bushels of Irish potatoes, and ad to its credit 149.901 head of live stock, 'he population of Huntington county In •00 was 28.900. a gain over 1890 of 1,287, and j show the further prosperity of the ounty the value of its property from 1890 5 1900 increased *6,976.730. With such a asls it is not surprising that the farmers f Huntington county have maintained n agricultural society since 1867. The first officers of the society were: President—Peter W. Zent. Secretary—Robert Simonton. Treasurer—John Roach. The present officers of the society are. President —Robert Simonton. Treasurer—Julius Dick. Secretary—A. L. Beck. As stated, the society, with the excepon of three years, has held annual fails nd paid *175.000 tn premiums to exibltors. and the attendance at its fairs t estimated In the aggregate at 1.250.000. .nd the value of its fair grounds and ulldlngs is estimated at *45,000. Huntlngjn county is northeast of Indianapolis 100 dies, has good railroad facilities, and in ddltlon to its agricultural wealth has irge deposits of lime and building stone, •hlch are being extensively developed. iovlngton, Fountain County, Agricultural Association, The fact that Fountain county supports wo agricultural associations and fair, peaks volumes to the credit of citiens of the county. They appreciate the luoatlon and uplifting influences exerted y such institutions. They are in symathv and in full accord with the new fa that has dawned upon agricultural (fairs In Indiana. Old methods of farmig have given place to the new, and in o way can this fact be so effectively resented, as in the display of exhibits at aunty fair. At these meetings of the •ople, thee ye is permitted to contemlate object lessons which Influence the idgment and extort the verdict that rotation has brought about a revolution 1 farming enterprises and the good that i being accomplished is worthy of tne Ighest commendation, and confirms the rer widening and potent opinion that indigence is in the sa~--e and its sway irwlstlble. Such conclusions are sugssted by the Covington, Fountain counr Agricultural society, which was orznlied in iB6O, having for its first offers: President—Robert R. Brown. Vice-President—John Bumsides. Secretary—Georgs Nebekor. Trt»l t, "rcy -Ds vid Rolls. The present officers of the association rat President—A. Llvlngood. Vice-President—Peter Asn. Treasurer—A. C. Harris. Secretary—Ross DeHaven. The association has he,- fairs annually nee its organization and the aggregate 'emlums paid amount to *61,500, and the Igregate attendance at the fairs is given : 410,000 persons. The value of the fair •ounds and buiiutngs is placed at 000. Besides, the association claims to kve the best half-mile speed track in sstern Indiana. It Is not an easy task i estimate the good accomplished by [rlcultural associations and fairs—as dlfralt as it is to follow the track of a valkble thought or a new idea In their conlerlng power over obstacles tn the way progress, but we are permitted to conmplate general results and under versts of approval. he Brown County Fair Aoeoclatlon. Bro wn county is one of the interior grandee of Indiana and is situated forty efles south of Indianapolis. It Is not a ergs county, having only *2O square

miles. Nor it Is a rich county as to soil, or agricultural products. The surface or the county may be described as hilly, a country where "hills peep o'er hills, ana hills on hills arise" —Switzerland In miniature. In part its agricultural products in I*oo Included 736,637 bushels of wheat, corn and oats, 18,858 tons of timothy and clover hay, 23,925 bushels of Irish potatoes and the farmers had 16,627 head of live stock. The population of the county in 1900 was *,727, showing a decline, as compared with 1890. The value of the property of the county, during the decade between 1890 and 1900, Increased *224.656. Brown county, however, is rich in timber lands, and in addition, gold, diamonds, rubies and other precious stones are found in Brown county, and It does no violence to conservative faith to predict that ultimately the auriferous and diamond bearing lands and sands of the county will give it a boom of startling proportions. Speaking of the agricultural society and fairs of the county, Mr. C. D. Campbell writes: "The Brown county fair Is an outgrowth

from the Patrons of Husbandry and Farmers' Mutual Benefit association. These societies held several competitive exhibitions without giving any premiums for anything exhibited, and their meetings partook largely of the nature of a picnic. In the spring of 1895 a movement was started toward a better and more effective organization, which resulted tn the organization known as the Brown County Fair association. The promoters of this fair declared in their articles of agreement: "That the purpose of this association shall be to promote and encourage the Interests of agriculture, the Improvement of stock and the advancement of horticultural Interests generally." The association the first year elected the following officers: President—Amos Parmerlee. Vice-President —N. N. Richardson. Secreary—C. D. Campbell. Treasurer—l. Walker. . These, with the board of directors and a general superintendent, constitute the list of officers. The present officers are: President —H. B Miller. Clce-Prealdent—William Parsley. Secretary—C. D. Campbell. Treasurer—N. A. Walker. From the time of Its first fair the association has held an anuual exhibition. This year from Aug. 12 to 16. The association pays out annually In premiums and purses about *7OO. The attendance averages about 2.000 for the week. The value of grounds and buildings is about *6OOO. This is the only fair held In the county, being held in the country in Hamilton township. It affords pleasure-seekers, tourists and picnic parties a most amusing and enjoyable entertainment. Parties come from various points in the state each year with tents and provisions, stay the entire week and feel amply repaid for their time by drinking the pure water, breathing the pure air and living amid the luxurious foliage of the "Switzerland of Indiana.” Henry, Madison and Dearborn County Agricultural Society. This society, tn part, represents the agricultural Interests . of three counties, recognized as among the most productive, wealthy and progressive counties in Indiana, having an aggregate population In 1900 of 130,531 Elsewhere statistics of the counties are given relating to area and leading agricultural products. Including live stock, etc., and that in alliance they have a prosperous agricultural society and annual fairs of Importance Is not surprising. The secretary of the society writes: "Among the leading and successful county or district fairs of the state of Indiana is the Henry. Madison and Delaware County Agriculture society, held at Middletown. The Middletown fair as it is more familiarly known, was organized as a corporation under the laws of the state In the year 1870 with a paid up capital stock of *5.000. divided Into 200 shares of *25 each, owned and controlled by as many stockholders, residing within the three counties from which the society takes Its name. The Hon. N. R. Elliott of Mechanicsburg. Henry county. Indiana, was Its first president. Mr. Elliott Is an active worker in the society today and his Influence and advice is always sought by the officers In charge. Mr. J. V. Clymler, who recently died In Kansas, was Its first secretary, and Capt David 8. Yount was its first treasurer. "The fair grounds fire beautifully situated within the corporate limits of Middletown and the thirty acres of ground enclosed has abundant shade and water. It Is a well known fact that the Middletown fair has one of the very beet half mile tracks tn the state, holding for a time the half mile track record of 2:09, made by the great pacing mare Pear! C, in 1897. The large number of stockholders contributing as they do to the success of the fair has given the society an enviable reputation as one of the leading fairs Of the state and the established rule of paying all premiums and purses In full has always been its motto, and horsemen and exhibitors attending each year have always departed speaking a good word for the Middletown fair. For a number of years past the date of the fair has been either the last week In July or the first week In August, being the first or opening fair of the eastern Indiana fair circuit, but for local reasons the board of directors this year concluded to have a later date and the fair this vear will occur on Sept 9, 10, 11 and 12, following the Anderson fair, and immediately proceeding the state fair. "The fair this year will be the society's thlrty-flrit annual meeting and while many fsjr societies of the state have

been compelled to abandon their annual meetings on account of financial embarrassments the Middletown Fair association is still in existence ranking among the first and foremost fairs of the state and enjoining the prosperity of the times. The premiums awarded each year to its many exhibitors, local and foreign, aggregate about *5,000, and the average attendance at each annual meeting is from 20,000 to 30,000. These numerous patrons in atttendance each year look forward to the next fair as a place to go for pleasure and recreation where all may meet, hold fam..y reunions, renew old acquaintance and have a royal good time. The value of the buildings and grounds of the society is estimated at *lO,000. The board of directors In charge of the management of the fair this year are as follows: E. M. Cooper, F. A. Wlsehart, Joe P. Prlgg, F. W. Cooper, J. H. Carpenter and L. P. Shoemaker. All of these gentlemen are experienced fair managers, having held their positions for a number of years, and but brief mention need be made of the exhibition of 1902 except to note the departure this year in the change of the date as this management will do all In Its power to furnish attractions to amuse the people who attend and exhibitors may rely with confidence on the record the society has made for more than a quarter of a century." Bridgeton, Parke County, Agricultural Society. This society has an interesting history as told by Mr. Dempsey Seybold. one of its original members. Mr. Seybold Is one of three men now living who helped to organize the society. James W. Mitchell and Abel Mitchell are the other two survivors. Mr. Seybold serveu the society twenty-four years as secretary and helped prepare the first premium list tn 18G0 and has helned prepare every premium list since that date. The socletv has held forty-one annual meetings and Mr. Seybold has attended all of them, as also, every annual fair the society hns held. This cbntlnuous service for forty-two years constitutes Mr. Seybold a veteran In the agricultural army, with n record which few men have to their, credit. The Bridgeton Agricultural society was organized In the spring of 1860, and the counties of Parke, Putnam. Clay and Vigo were Included In the enterprise. At that time a few of the horsemen of the counties named concluded to hold a colt show and In April of that year the exhibition was held, and there was such an Interest manifested, and thn attendance was so large and enthusiastic that steps were at once taken to organize a district fair. A day was appointed for a meeting and the people responded tn large numbers, resulting in the organization of the society, the election of officers, the appointment of committees, the selection of thirteen acres of land for fair grounds, their inclosure and the erection of buildings, etc., and so vigorously was work pushed forward that the first fair was held In September, 1860. and the premiums awarded were paid in silverware. The first officers of the society were: John B. Miller, president; Frederick Rolin, vice-president; Joseph McFarland, secretary, and James W. Miller, treasurer. The present officers of the society are: T. S. Nevins, president: P. B. Crable, vice-president; G. W. Bell, secretary, and A. R. Miller, treasurer. Except one year, during the rebellion, the society has held annual fairs and the premiums paid each year have ranged from *I.OOO to *2.000, .ae rule being to pay all expenses first and then pro rate the premiums. The attendance at the fairs have annually averaged from 5,000 to 7,000 persons. The fair buildings consist of two good horse barns, fine art hall, agricultural hall. Implement hall and poultry hall, valued at *I.OOO. The fair grounds include twenty-five acres with a good half-mile speed track. Spencer County Agricultural Association. Spencer Is probably the largest county jn Indiana, having an area of 49S square miles. Its southern boundary Is the Ohio river. It has a creditable record as an agricultural county, producing large crops of cereals, potatoes, nay and tobacco. Originally a densely wooded county, it still has Immense quantities of timber, such as oak, gum. poplar and hickory, besides it contains large deposits of coal, which add to its wealth. In 1900 Spencer county produced 1.603.232 bushels of wheat, corn, oats, rye and barley and 149.995 bushels of Irish potatoes. It also 4 produced 19,584 tons of timothy and clover hay and had 27.249 head of live stock. Its population In 1900 was 22,407, a small gain over 1890. During the decade between 1870 and 1900 the value of its property increased *2.168,840. The Spencer County Agricultural association was organized in 1886 and Its first officers were: President—James S. Wright. Vice-President—John B. Chrisney. Secretary—B. D. Groves. Treasurer—John Bays. The present officers of the association are: President. I. C. Homer: vice-presi-dent, J. B. Chrisney; secretary, I. P. Chrisney; treasurer, Davins Jones; superintendent, George P. Clement. The association has neld fairs annually since its organization and has disbursed *3.000 in premiums, and the attendance at its fairs averages about 4,000 a day. The value of the fair grounds and building is placed at *5,000. The fairs of the association have always been successful, and one of the best half-mile speed tracks In the state adds to Its attractions. The attendance has always been large and the exhibits in all regards superior, and the people generally manifest a lively interest In the fairs, which are held at Chrisney, a flourishing town In the center of the county. Madison County Fair Association. Madison county Is one of the central counties of Indiana, lying Immediately north of Indianapolis. It has an area of 446 square miles and in 1890 had a population of 70,470, an Increase In ten years of 33.983. It is a well watered county and justly celebrated for Its agricultural products. In 1890 it had 100.672 acres devoted to wheat, corn, oats and rye, and produced of these cereals 3.624.060 bushels. It also produced 15,005 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand In 1900 62,772 head of live stock. Madison is one of the most noted of the gas belt counties, and has derived immense wealth from Its product of natural gas. Its agricultural association as It now exists was organized In 1900, and its first officers were: President, Thomas B. Orr; vice-presi-dent, Charles 11. Eastman; secretary, Carroll K. McCullough; treasurer, William Bolans. Few changes have occurred in the personnel of the officers of the association since its organization and Its present officers are: President, Thomas B. Orr; secretary, Charles H Eastman; treasurer, William Bolans. The association holds annual fairs and has awarded premiums aggregating *B,OOO. The fair grounds of the association are located in the heart of the city of Anderson, the capital of the county, having a population of 25,000, and are only three squares from the court house. The annual attendance ranges from 5,000 to 28,000, the average attendance being not, less than 10,000. The value of the grounds and buildings is estimated at *75,000. The association gives special attention to racing and has one of the finest tracks in the state, and the equipment for the care of blooded goers is all that the most exacting turfman co ild desire, and the record of 2XKI4 the first year has had a good

effect in giving prominence to ths track, and the good opinion thus gained remains intact. The grand stand comfortably seats 5,200 people. The association is making commendable efforts to encourage all Interests without going to extremes or to discriminating between patrons of the association. The purpose is to have high class entries of live stock, and many of the entries go direct to ths state fairs and secure first premiums. The prospects of the association for 1902 are bright for success, and good premiums wMI be paid In cash to successful competitors. Madison county keeps abreast of the vanguard of progress in agricultural affairs and its motto is "Excelsior." Lake County Agricultural Society. In the extreme northern portion of Indiana, bordering upon Lake Michigan, Lake county is situated, having an area of 500 square miles, and in 1900 had a population of 37,802. Omitting wheat, its product of corn, oats and rye in 1900 aggregated 2.687.174 bushels. It also produced 220.416 bushels of Irish potatoes and 53.200 tons of hay. and had on hand 33.315 head of live stock, which indicates that the farming Interests of Lake county are not neglected. The Lake County Agricultural society at Crown Point was organized Aug. 27, 1851. and fairs have sines been held annually except during the civil war period, 1861-64. The first officers of the society were: President, Hervey Ball; vice-president, William Clark; secretary. Joseph P. Smith; treasurer, John W. Dinwiddle, and the present officers of the association are: President, J. a. Beattie; vice-president, C. P. Benjamin; secretary, Fred G. Wheeler; treasurer, I. A. Donald. The Lake County Agricultural society has had an Interesting history, which Mr. Fred G. Wheeler, Its secretary, gives as follows:

"The first annual show brought out sixty-nine entries, and thirty premiums were awarded, aggregating *4B. The receipts of the first fair amounted to *9l, the expenditures to *58.25, leaving a balance in the treasury of *32.75. The second fair, held in 1853, brought out eighty-sev-en entries and *61.75 was paid In premiums. In 1856 the society purchased five acres of land for a fair ground site, now located In the residence district of Crown Point. Fairs were held regularly until the excitement of the war came on, but in 1867 they were resumed, and year by year the fair grew to such proportions that In 1876 the county commisslop'ers purchased forty acres of land for ig'.OOO, a half mile west of the corporate limits of Crown Point. This ground, owned by the county, has. since Its purchase, been used by the society. Without doubt this fair ground Is one of the finest in the world, and a few lines giving a description of It will prove Interesting. The halfmile track forms just ths circuit of a small and beautiful lake upon which the occupants of pleasure boats may rest while viewing the races and the crowds upon the land. The track and lake are surrounded by a small bluff covered with picturesque groups of fine natural forest trees, making It a natural ampltheater, and on an eminence where a fine view of the track, lake and buildings can be had. Is the commodious floral hall, costing *2.500. The value of the grounds is not priceable for the reason of their great beauty, and their ron-'’ntlon as ths Ideal fair grounds of Indiana." The fairs of Lake county have always been a success, • great number of entries are made and everybody looks forward to the coming of the fair. The receipts now reach at a small estimate, *2,500, and the officers propose to expend It all in premiums. Unlike many other fairs the Lake county fair is not a stock company and no one receives a salary except the secretary. Lawrenceburg Fair Association. Lawrenceburg is the capital city of Dearborn county, one of the oldest counties In Indiana, situated seventy miles southeast of Indianapolis and is twentyfive miles distant from Cincinnati, where It finds an’ excellent market for the product of its farms and gardens. It has an area of 291 square miles, and In 1900 had a population of 22.140. In 1800 Dearborn county had 49,037 acres devoted to cereals, of which it produced 1,056.800 bushels. It also produced 34,521 tons of hay and clover and 103,716 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 17,845 head of live stock. In matters pertaining to fairs Dearborn county has had an Interesting experience. The Lawrenceburg Fair association was organized In 1890, with William H. O’Brien as president, Victor Oberting. vice-president; H. L. Newlin, secretary, and Charles Scheamm. treasurer. The present officers of the association are George M. Roberts, president; Victor Olutlmg, vice-president; H. L. Newlin, secretary, and T. B. Mathews, treasurer. The association holds a fair every year, at which from *2,000 to *2,400 Is paid In premiums, and the attendance at each fair ranges from 12,000 to 15,000 people. The fair grounds and buildings belong to the city of Lawrenceburg and are used for park purposes except during the fairs. The first fairs held in Dearborn county were at Manchester, and were successful ventures, and this encouraged the people to favor the entorprlse,e.nd an increase in premiums was the result, and many successful fairs have been held at Lawrenceburg. In the meantime Aurora organized a fair association apd held a number of successful fairs, but finally abandoned the field. Harrison, 0., organized an association about 1897 and held three fairs In West Harrison, Ind., but owing to the serious damage tb the grounds caused by floods the project was abandoned. After the first association at Lawrenceburg had abandoned Its fairs, none were held there for about eight years, and then the Lawrenceburg Agriculture association was organized and held fairs annually for eighteen consecutive years, at which time it transferred its lease to the present association, which has a new lease on the grounds for ten years, and contemplates giving annual exhibitions during the period. Amidst all these ups and downs It Is Keen that the farmers of Dearborn county have maintained a determination to promote the agriculture interests of their county and section. Muncie Fair. The Delaware County Agricultural and Mechahlcal society was organized March, 10, 1852—fifty years ago. Its first officers were: President—Thomas Kirby. Vice-President—David Kllgon. Treasurer —Thomas J. Matthens. Secretary—Samuel W. Harlan. And It. is said of these first officers of the association that they "served the society for a number of years, and laid the foundation of one of the most successful fair associations in the state." The present officers of the society are: President—William H. Wood. Vice-President—Charles H. Anthony. Treasurer—Benjamin C. Bowman. Superintendent—Frank J. Claypool. Secretary—Marcus 8. ClaypooL Delaware county is one of the central counties of the state, being fifty miles northeast of Indianapolis, has an area of 399 square miles, and in 1900 had a population of 49.824, a gain of 19,493 in ten years. The conuty has a prolific soil and yield a generous return for the labor of the farmers. In 1900 it produced of the cereal crops 3,000,932 bushels and 28,580 tons of hay. It also produced 53,382 bushels of Irish potatoes and had on hand 74,006 head of live stock. The association has held fairs continuously each year since 1852, and this year, 1902, celebrates its golden anniversary. The present officers have been identified with the society’s interests for over twenty years, and most of the present officers of the society have been in continuous service during that period. The motto of the society from

the first has been "Progress,” resulting In changes cf methods of bringing the people together and of entertaining them. In the way of premiums the society has dlstrubted to its patrons fully *250,000 during its existence and has brought together the best productions of field and shop for the education and advancement of those who have attended its fairs. Competition has always been open to the world that the people of Delaware county might profit by the handiwork of others in more favored localities. A prominent feature of the fairs has been the exhibition of live stock, the superiority of which has made breeders of Delaware county famous throughout the country. The society leases its fair grounds from the county which are said to be the most beautiful in the state, representing a value of *25,000 and the Improvements, owned by the society, represent an outlay of *20,000. The society pays liberal premiums and enjoys the enviable reputation of paying them promptly and fully, and will celebrate its golden jubilee Aug. 25 to 29, 1902. Boone County Agricultural Association. Boone county organized its agricultural socltey Feb. 22, 1853, and has held annual fairs during the entire period. Boone is one of the central counties of Indiana and adjoins Marlon county at tls northwest corner and has an area of 420 square miles. It is a well-situated county, with a rich soil and in all regards favorable for agriculture. In 1890, ommltlng wheat, it produced 4,126.952 bushels of corn, oats and rye and 68,825 tons of timothy and clover hay, and 46,920 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 73.684 head of live stock. With such an amount of farm products It is not surprising that agricultural fairs have been continuously maintained. The first officers of the Boone Agricultural society were: President—Harvey S. Hazlerigg. Vice-President—Joseph T. McLaughlin Treasurer—Andrew J. Boone. Secretary—William Reese. These men lived and sought to promote agriculture in Boone county fifty years ago. and the present official rooster of the society Is George W. Campbell, president; Anthony Kincade, vice-president; Riley Hansey, secretary, and Isaac W. Caster, treasurer. As has been said, fairs are held annually and the average annual premiums paid amount to *3.000. or about *147,000 since the organization of the society. The ~oone county fairs are well attended, the county having in 1900 a population of 26.321, and the annual attendance of the fairs is about 15,000. The value of the fair grounds and buildings is estimated at *IO,OOO. The society maintains at the fair grounds a race track, or "speed ring,” which Is for horses of Boone county which have never been tracked for speed, and for the three

days’ fair of 1902 premiums to the amount of *2,100 are offered, ranging from *SO to *3OO. Harrison County Agricultural Society. The fact that Corydon, the capital city of Harrison county, was the first capital of Indiafia, where the first state house still stands a memento of "Indiana In her dawn,” gives a certain distinction to Harrison county enjoyed by no other county, except Marion. In 1900 Harrison county had a population of 21,702, showing a slight gain over 1890. It has an area of 475 square miles and in 1890 produced 1,147,968 bushels of wheat, oats, corn and rye and 41,347 tons of timothy and clover hay. It also produced 79,020 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 30,137 head of live stock. Late indications are of more than average agricultural resources. The Harrison County Agricultural society was organized In 1859 and Its first fair was held In September, 1860, and continued four days. The first officers of the association were: President—Edward D. Aydelotte. Vice-President—P. D. Bean. Treasurer—Ell Wright. Secretary—David Jordan. The society Is now officered as follows: President—O. L. Huston. Vice-President—Samuel T. Wolf. Treasurer—John C. F. Selg. Secretary—Ed 8. Fuell. The society has held fairs annually, having never missed a year during the period since its organization. No data Is available showing the exact amount paid out for premiums, but the annual average has been about *2,500, or for forty-two years *105,000; fruits, for which the county Is justly celebrated, having special distinction. The attendance of the fairs being about ten thousand daily attests their popularity and the strong hold they have upon the people. The fair grounds are well located and have a value of about *IO.OOO. The fairs of the society have been successful in every respect, especially financially, and always met promptly every obligation, and the forty-third fair to be held In 1902 gives satisfactory promise of meeting every expectation. Benton-Warren Agricultural Society. Benton and Warren counties conjointly hold annual fairs under the auspices of the Benton-Warren Agricultural society. Which was organized June 5, 1890, the result of co-operation of many of the lead-

ing and enterprising citizens of tho two counties, which had an aggregate population in 1890 of 24,494, and have an aggregate area of 742 square miles. Thesecounties are located in the northwestern portion of the state, bordering on the state of Illinois, and in 1900 produced of wheat, corn, oats and rye 9,100,128 bushels and 35,739 tons of timothy and clover hay. They also produced 216,948 bushels of Irish potatoes, and the live stock of the two counties aggregated 64.370 head. The first officers of the Benton-Warren Agricultural society were: President—Henry Robertson. Vice-President—Henry C. Harris. Second Vice-President—James Kirkley. Treasurer—Hiram Bright. Secretary—George W. Cone*. The present officers of the society are: President—Hiram Bright. Vice-President—Henry C. Harris. Second Vice-President—Samuel Alexander. Treasurer—H. W. Dlmmick. Secretary—W. H. McKnlght The society has held annual fairs each year since its organization, paying cash premiums ranging from *3,500 to *4,000 an nually, and the premiums have always been paid in full, and the dally attendance upon the fair has ranged from 6,000 to 7,000 each year. The society owns Its fair grounds, which are well located and valued at *7,500, with good and substantial buildings. The society maintains a good half mile track, where local candidates for fame contest their speed and win prizes, and the shade trees and an abundance of good water add to the attractions of the fairs, and there being no other fairs held In the two counties the Benton-Warren fair becomes the center of attraction, and the thirteenth will be held Aug. 25-29, 1902. Union County Fair Association. The organization of the fair association of Union county occurred during the current year, 1902. As a result the society has no history except that which relates to its organization. It has held no fairs. It has paid no premiums. Its history Ilea in the future and Its organization at this late day speaks well for the Intelligence and enterprise of the agriculturists and horticulturists of the county, and for the Influence which Is being exerted by fairs in surrounding counties which Is altogether in the line of progress, in which

all the counties of the state might profitably participate. Union county, situated seventy miles east of Indianapolis, and bordering upon the boundary line between Indiana and Ohio, is one of the smaller counties of the state, having an area of only 168 square miles and a population in 1900 of 6,748. Union county is favorably conditioned for agriculture and horticulture, being well watered and having a generous soil, wbtcb responds satisfactorily when intelligently cultivated. In 1900 Union county had 49.206 acres devotee, to the cereal crops—wheat, corn, oats and rye—of which it produced, omitting wheat, 1,411,652 bushels. It produced 30,490 tons of timothy and clover hay and 11.303 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 24,450 head of live stock. The officers of the Union County Fair association are: President—James M. Eaton. Vice-President —Walter Abernathy. Secretary—Milton Maxwell. Treasurer—B. M. Lefrege. The society begins operations under favorable auspices, and its first fair, to be held Sept. 3 to 5, promises to meet the sanguine expectations of the society. Henry County Agricultural Association. In 1900 Henry county produced of the three cereal crops, corn, oats and rye. 8,233,294 bushels, the wheat crop being for that year a failure. The county also produced 46,719 tons of timothy and clover hay and 44.540 bushels of Irish potatoes, and the farmers had on hand 57,338 head es live stock. The county, which is situated forty miles cast of Indianapolis, has an area of 400 square miles. It Is well watered and justly boasts of the great fertility of its soil, and field and farm and -orchard yield a bountiful return tor the labor bestowed In their cultivation. Henry county in 1900 had a population of 25.088. showing an Increase in ten years of 1.218, and the total value of the property of the county increased between 1890 and 1900. 33,270.840. The Henry County Agricultural society was organized April 20. 1895, with Charles S. Hernly. president; Robert H. Cooper, vice-pres-ident; A. D. Ogborn, treasurer, and W. I„. Risk, secretary. The society entered the arena to compete for distinction late as compared with many other similar associations in the state, but it has been progressive from the start and has made a good record. The present officers are: Dr. R. A. Smith, president; R. H. Cooper, vicepresident; H. L. Risk, secretary, and Eli W. Frazier, treasurer. The Henry county association has held its fairs annually since its organization, which have grown steadily in public favor, the annual premiums paid ranging from $2,500 to $3,000. which speaks eloquently for the association as also for the agricultural interests of the county; the attendance annually ranging from 16.000 to 18,000. which in a county having a population cf 25.088 is all that could be expected. The association has well arranged fair grounds, thoroughly equipped. the value of which is conservately estimated at $12.000. The buildings are all new and covered with steel roofing and are admirablj' arranged for business in a grove of shade trees, and every fall Carolina poplar trees are set out. the purpose being to make the grove an 'Attractive park. The fair grounds have a half mile speed track, one of the best in the state, and the grand stand Is so situated that the occupants can see evert- sten the horses take from start to finish. Henry county Is Justly renowned for its agricultural faits, and fruit fairs were held in New Castle as early as 1810. Thfr'-Gibson County Agricultural ' Society. The officers of the Gibson County Agricultural society take special pride in their society, which, as the records show, is eminently proper, as it has enjoyed a large measure of success. It was organized In 1852. and except in 1562-C3. when no fairs were held, has realized every expectation. The society started out under favorable auspices, having for its first officers Judge James T. Enbree, president; Dr. W. W. Biair, still living and practicing medicine, secretary, and John Hargrove, father of the present president of the society, treasurer. It will be gratifying to members of agricultural societies throughout the state to learn that here and there a veteran like Dr. Blair still lingers above the sod. The present officers of the society are: S. H. Hargrove, president; Lon Wheeler, vice-presi-dent; William T. Hopkins, secretary, and Robept Woreles, treasurer. Gibson county lies in the southwestern portion’ of the state. 150 miles from Indianapolis. It has an area of 472 square miles, which include some of the best farming land in the state and are nowhere excelled throughout the entire country—a fact which is verified by statistics of production. In 1900 the cereal crop, wheat, corn, outs and rye, amounted to 2.099,761 bushels, 24,211 bushels of Irish potatoes and 43.171 tons of timothy and clover hay, with live stock amounting to 46,836 head. The total value of property in the county Increased frmo 1890 to 1900 $4,685,200. The society has held fairs every year except 1862-63 since its' organization and has paid premiums aggregating approximately $490,000. No record 4s available showing annual attendance of the fairs—the expression, “immense crowds,” which, being rationally interpreted, means anywhere from 20,000 to 30,000. The fair grounds and buildings of GlbsOn county are estimated at $20,000. The Gibson county fair never made a failure in all of its history, but has always paid the premiums awarded in full. As a result, it has the moral and active support of all the best citizens of the county and draws largely from all surrounding counties, and fair week is looked forward to with great

Interest by the people, as they anticipate seeing on exhibition the best specimens of crops, the latest improvements in machinery and the best stock of the herds of Gibson and surrounding counties. This being true, the people go to their homes with a better knowledge of the resources of the county and of the state. The Gibson county fair is a county fair only in name. The majority of the district fairs and many state fairs do not equal it in number, quality and value of exhibits or in point of attendance. The fair grounds have a splendid half-mile track and liberal purses are paid for speed entries. The first Gibson county fair was held In the court house yard and stock sheds were erected around the square. Miss Sofrona B. Snow and Miss Bramlee were the only ladies who had an exhibit at that fair, and they are still living and have had exhibits every year since. Robert Mitchell Is a director In the Gibson county fair and has been on the board for a number of years. No gambling, liquor selling. Immoral shows, spindles, etc., are allowed on or near the fair ground. The society caters to the best citizens of the communities and the success of its fairs shows the wisdom of Its policy. Rush County Fair Association. Rush county, forty miles southeast of Indianapolis, and having an area of 414 square miles, is notably one of the banner agricultural counties of the state. It Is a well watered county with a rich soil and everywhere shows Intelligent cultivation. and It would require no little time to discover a better class of farm residences and barns than may be claimed by the farmers of Rush county. In 1900 the county had a population of 20,148, showing a slight gain over 1890. In 1900 the farmers of Rush county produced 3,604,530 busuexs of corn, oats and rye—wheat being a failure; 43.907 tons of timothy and clover hay, and 37,950 bushels of Irish potatoes. And there were 69,532 head of live stock in the county, and the value of property increased from 1890 to 1900 $3,444,200, Indicative of the general prosperity of the people, which is still further shown by the history of the Rush County Fair association, which was organized as a joint stock company In IK6, with John Major, president; Stephen Donaldson, secretary; Daniel Wilson, superintendent. and Thqmas Mitchell, marshal. Previous to 1852 two fairs had been held, but since that date the present organization has occupied the field. The receipts of the first fair were $2,201.10, which has steadily Increased since that date. The premiums were paid in full at the first fair, which has been done every year since. The present officers of the association are Edward Crosby, president; W. A. Alexander, vice-president; John L. Thomas. secretary, and A. B. Hinchman, treasurer. The association has held an annual fair every year since Its organization, during which time over $300,000 has been paid to exhibitors, and more than a million people have attended the fair. The grounds and Improvements are valued at $20,000, and are In no way incumbered. The fair grounds are located one mile east of the city of Rushville, and are admirably adapted for fair purposes, not being excelled In the state. On the south side the two hills form a natural amphitheater, from the verdant sides of which the stock In the show ring between can be seen. The north side is level, and on this the half-mile track is locate**, which, being overlooked by the higher gronwis, affords the thousands of spectators an opportunity- to witness the trials of speed. The grounds are supplied with delightful shade, pure water and an abundance of shelter, and are of easy access by train and carriage, and in addition, an electrio line Is surveyed to reach the south side of the grounds. The fairs conducted by the association have long since become noted because of the liberal premiums offered and always paid without scaling; as also for their social features. These fairs have become veritable picnics of the people, where they annually gather from every section of the state, and from many states of the union to enjoy social reunion. The society prohibits gambling and the sale of Intoxicating liquors on the grounds, a regulation which has been promotive of the good order which has always characterized the fairs. The association has rebuilt and widened the speed track and larger purses and premiums will be distinguishing features of the fair for 1902, which promises to be one of the most successful the association has ever held. Terre Haute Trotting and Fair Association. Vigo county is in several regards one of tho representative counties of Indiana It has an area of 400 square miles, and in 1900 had a population of 62,035, a gain in ten years of 11,840, and ranks among the prosperous agricultural counties of the state, having produced in 1900 2,163,325 bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye. It also produced 19,858 tons of timothy and clover hay, 53,692 bushels of Irish potatoes and had to its credit 38,783 head of live stock. The county is on the western border of the state, adjoining Illinois, seventy miles west of Indianapolis, and its capital city, Terre Haute, ranks among the most populous, progressive and thrifty cities of the state, and the county, aside from its rich soil and large agricultural products, has in numerous localities rich veins of coal. The Terre Haute Trotting and Fair association was organized in 1858, and its officers were Cory W. Barber, president; M. M. Hickox, vice-president, and Joseph Gilbert, secretary. Its present officers are: W. P. Ijams. president; Dean McLaughlin. vice-president: Frank McKeen, treasurer. and Charles B. Duffin, secretary. The association in its eary history was justly renowned for its fairs, which were held annually from the date of its organization up to four years ago, when

they were discontinued. During the period in which fairs were regularly held, a conservative estimate places the amount of premiums awarded exhibitors at $250,000 and the average annual attendance of visitors at 20,000. The fair grounds and buildings are pow valued at $120,000, and are admirably located directly east of the city of Terre Haute. The association has one of the best race tracks in the state on which numerous celebrated animals have won money and distinction, notably AxteL whose record gave him a value of SIIO,OOO. The association will resume its fairs this year. 1902, beginning Aug. 11, and the indications favor the conclusion that the occasion will be equal, if not more notable, than any previous fair in the long and brilliant history of the association. Bartholomew County Agricultural Association. There are numerous reasons why Bartholomew county should have and maintain an agricifltural society of commanding Influence upon the surrounding counties. It ranks among the largest in the state, having 467 square miles of land, which is pronounced exceptionally favorable for the production of staple crops, having produced in 1900 2,581,492 bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye, of which 170,000 bushels were wheat It also produces 30.302 tons of timothy and clover hay. and 54,029 bushels of Irish potatoes and the uve stock on hand in 1900 numbered 44,280 head. The population of Bartholomew county in 1900 was 24.594, a gain in ten years of 727, which, though not large, indicates that the people are satisfied with the climate, soil and productiveness of their county, which is prosperous, the value of property in the county from 1890 to 1900 having increased $6,252,779. The Bartholomew Agricultural association was organized in 1897, five years ago, and its officers were: President—D. W. Heagy. Vice-President—N. B. Reeve*. Secretary—Ed Redman. Treasurer—F. M. Cramp. The association has held fairs annually, except in 1898, and the amount of premiums paid has ranged from $2,000 to $3,200. An average of $2,600 each year and the attendance has ranged from 6,000 to 10,000. The fair grounds of the association, with the buildings, are valued at $12,000, and the fair for 1902 will be held Sept. 9 to 12. The present officers of the association are: President—F. T. Crump. Vice-President—Ben C. Thomas. Secretary—Ed Redman. M. Williams. The outlook Is favorable for a successful fair—one of the best, if not the most successful, the association has ever held. Fairmount Union Joint Stock Agricultural Association. This association of Grant county, Indiana, was organized Oct. 15, 1883, and has held fairs annually from that date to 1902, and this year the fair will be held at Fairmount Aug. 11 to 15 inclusive. Grant is one of the large land counties of the state and is In all regards favorably conditioned for agriculture, being well watered and having a generous soli. General farming Is a capital producing business. This may be inferred from the fact that in 1890 the county produced 3.268.2 U bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye and 44,657 tons of timothv and clover hay. together with 56.481 bushels of Irish potatoes. Beside, the farmers of Grant county had on hand In 1890, 75,759 head of" live stock, a remarkably satisfactory basis for agricultural prosperity. Tn addition under the soli of Grant county the Almighty stated away tn Trenton rock still another source of boundless wealth in the shape of natural gas. The farmers of Grant county are to be felicitated upon their good fortune. In 1890 Grant county had a population of 54.693. a gain in ten years of 23,200. Such a county ought to have an agricultural association, of which the entire state would feel proud. Beside statistics show that the value of property In Grant county Increased from 1890 to 1900. $12,385,045. But It so happens that the honorable secretary of the “Fairmount Union Joint Stock Agricultural association" is extremely short on data relating to the association, aside from the fact that fairs are held annually. Who the first officers of the association were. is not stated and as for premiums awarded by the association, “norecords have been kept,” and the same laconic reply is given as to the query about attendance at the fairs and as for the value of fair grounds and buildings, the Information Is “no estimate has been made.” Manifestly the Fairmount Union Joint Stock Agricultural association does not propose to give away Its business for the gratification of outsiders. But the secretary goes so far In taking the public Into his confidence as to say: "Our fair has been getting better for the past five years and this year promises to be better than ever." The present officers of the association are T. J. Brockshire, president; George A. Fletcher, secretary; Joseph Pool, treasurer, and L. Brookshire, marshal. It may be that the association has paid out since 1883 as much as $5,000 in premiums, or a total of $95,000, and perhaps the attendance at its fairs may have averaged 20.000; and it is possible that the value of fair grounds and buildings are SIOO,OOO. But where no records are kept and no estimate made, the officials r ay be said to have an abundance of leisure and pleasure. ,vShelby .County Agricultural Association. Thirty years ago the farmers and business men of Shelby county organized an agricultural association and elected the following board of officers: President—Hiram B. Cole. Vice-President—John Blessing. Secretary—Charles F. Webster. Treasurer —Reuben W. Wiler. And the present officers of the association are: President—B. F. Swain. Vice-President—S. P. Stroup. Secretary—C. E. Amsden. Treasurer —Dr. L. Wilson. Shelby, from an agricultural point of view, is one of the most favored counties in the state. Numerous streams afford as abundance of water and the soli yields a generous return to the cultivator. The county 1b centrally located, adjoining Marion on its northern boundary and enjoys large railroad facilities. In 1900 Shelby county produced 8,640,108 bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye, 40,044 tons of timothy and clover hay. 29,700 bushels of Irish potatoes, and had on hand 42.489 head of live stock. Shelby county was settled by a hardy class of people, renowned for intelligence and thrift and in 1900 had a population of 26,491, showing a slight gain over the census of 1890, and the value of its property increased in ten years from 1890 to 1900 $5,765,030. The Shelby County Agricultural society has held annual fairs, the first having been held in 1874, two years after its organization. and during the period has paid in premiums $211,350. No higher. testimony is required to demonstrate that agricul-' ture in Shelby county has the support of the entire population, and this is shown from the fact that the fairs are attended by 40,000 to 50,000 annually. The fair grounds and buildings have an estimated value of SIO,OOO. The fairs of Shelby county have always been successful and a failure was never recorded, owing to the fact, in a large measure, that the people are all interested in them and take an honest pride in all matters relating to their interests, and the officers of the association have labored faithfully to achieve the high standing the popular

verdict awards the Shelby county fairs. There is no blemish on the fair escutcheon of old Shelby. Randolph County Fair Association. If there is a county in Indiana in which a well organized and aggressive agricultural association could be regarded as a prime factor and force in building up agricultural Interests, Randolph county may be said to have special prominence in the list. It is a large county, having an area of 444 square miles, with rich and productive soil, well watered and having ample railroad facilities for the transportation of its products to market. It is a county possessed of a large wealth, the value of its property having increased from $11,708,820 in 1890 to $17,090,920 in 1900, a gain of $5,332,100. The population of the county in 1900 was 28,653, a gain of 560 In ten years. The agricultural products of the county In 1900 were 4,300.461 bushels of corn, oats, rye and barley, 27,593 tons of timothy and clover hay, 41,668 bushels of Irish potatoes, and the county had to its credit 47,426 head of live stock. It is not surprising, therefore, that as early as April, 1853, the Randolph County Agricultural society was organized with A. Stone president, David Lasby vicepresident, Uriah Ball treasurer and John Lasby secretary. The first fair of the association was held on a one-acre lot, now within the limits of the city of Winchester. The expenses amounted to S3O and the receipts to SIBO, leaving a net profit of $l5O. The association has been reorganized several times during the forty-nine years of its existence, and the society that now owns the fair grounds, sixty-two acres, valued at about $6,500, is known as the Union Fair association, although it has held no fairs since 1897. Tnis society has sub-let the fair ground to A. C. Green, who organized the Randolph County Fair association, which has held four fairs. The ’ annual premiums rango from $1,500 to $2,000 and the attendance ranges from 4,000 to 6.500. The enterprise is purely a private affair In which the agriculturists of Randolph county have no direct interest except as exhibitors. Jennings County Agricultural Association. In area, wealth, soil, agricultural products and general property Jennings county may be rated as fairly average, and capable of maintaining an Influential agricultural society, which it has done since 1880. The county has an area of 875 square miles, and In addition to other sources of wealth, has an excellent quality of building stone, which Is found in practically inexhaustible deposits. The county is well provided with railroad facilities and general prosperity prevails among Its farming population. In 1900 Jennings county produced 1.182,316 bushels of wheat, corn, oats and rye. and 23.131 tons of timothy and clover hay. It also produced 25,308 bushels of Irish potatoes and had on hand 29,651 head of live stock. Such argicultural resources emphasizes the fact that an agricultural society Is a necessity not to be lightly estimated. The Jennings County Agricultural society. or North Vernon fair, was organized in 1800, and its first officers were: President—E. P. Hicks. Vice-President—l. B. Smith. Secretary—C. D. Shank. Treasurer—J. D. Cone. The present officers of the society are: President—A. A. Tripp. Vice-President—F. M. Vubrey. Secretary—Fred H. Nanlr. Treasurer—E. Hicks. The society has held annual fairs sines its organization, and the aggregate amount of premiums paid is $8,500; the aggregate attendance has been about 400,000 The value of ths fair grounds and building is estimated at $30,000. Jay County Agricultural Asaoclatlon. The Agricultural association of Jay county was organized in 1871, and was offered as follows: President—lsaa Underwood. Vice-President—C. H. Clark. Secretry—lra Denny. Treasurer—l. L. Banta. By this record it is seen that the farmers of Jay county thirty-one years ago decided to enter the list of progressive agricultural counties of the state. The county, by its area, 377 square miles, the productiveness of its soil and agricultural resuorces. was entitled to recognition as one of the prosperous counties of the state, and the farmers evidently believed that an agricultural society would add indefinitely to its prosperity and influences. A fair idea of the agricultural resources of Jay county is had by the statement that in 1900, the latest available statistical date, the county produced 3,314,704 bushels of corn, oats, rye and barley, 30,286 tons of timothy and clover hay, and 65,352 bushels of Irish potatoes, and at the same time had to its credit 61,027 head of live stock. In point of population Jay county has more than held its own. having in 1900 a population of 26,818, a gain of 3.340 In ten years, and the value of its property from 1890 to 1900 Increased $4,969,950. That is a good showing, conclusive that the farmers of 1871 did not overestimate the resources of their county. The present officers of the association are: President—John Schmuck. Vice-President —E. Lyons. Treasurer—W. M. Haynes. Secretary—James A. Graves. The association has held fairs every year since Its organization, and has paid In premiums and race purses $5,850—32,550 In purses and $3,330 in premiums—to exhibitors. All things considered, the Jay County Agricultural society has had a fairly prosperous career, and the program for Its fair In 1902 includes five days, from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 inclusive. Bourbon, Marshall County, Fair As- * sociation. Manifestly, the Bourbon Fair association Is conducted on business rlnciples and has been a pronounced success from the beginning. The initial organization dates back to 1872. under the name of the Pioneer Farmers’ club, having for its president Harrison Sparrow and Washington Idcn secretary. The association had a modest birth, its first fair, in 1872, being held at a school house a short distance east of Bourbon, during the month of October. No entry fee was charged and no premiums paid, ribbons serving to designate the favorite animal or the best competing article. All the records of the fair are not available, but Washington Iden and Jeptha Dlsher and other promoters of the enterprise served in various capacities and William E. Gay was secretary for thirteen years. The fairs grew in popular favor and for want of room were moved from place to place. Still the cry was "more room” for the accommodation of the increasing attendance. As a result eight acres of land was bought and buildings erected and a small fee charged for admittance. Still the demand was for

more room, and on Aug. 16, 1891, an association was formed under the laws of the state, known as the Bourbon Fair association, fclth a paid-up capital of $5,000. Thirty-five acres of suitable land was purchased and by Oct. 1, 1891, a fine half-mile speed track was completed and a grand stand, an art hall, a fruit house, with grain and vegetable sheds, stables, pens and fences were erected, involving a debt of $2,000, all of which has been paid and the association is still making permanent Improvements for the accommodation of Increasing exhibits. The first officers of the Bourbon Fair association were: J. W. Edison, president; Joseph Coar, vice-president; G. D. Ettinger, secretary, and James H. Matchett, treasurer. The present officers of the association are: Robert Irwin, president; Charles H. New, vice-president; Dr. L. Johnson, treasurer, and D. W. Parks, secretary, The association holds fairs annually and in 1901 premiums paid aggregated $1,500. A business feature of the association’s transactions is the publication of receipts and expenditures of Its fairs. For Instance, in 1901 the receipts were $3,821.71, expenses $3,033.20, leaving a balance to the credit of the fair of $788.61. That is business and In a large measure accounts for the success of the fairs every year they have been held, and it is said as a further explanation of the success of the fairs that “no Intoxicants are sold, no gambling allowed and no immoral show tolerated. We alm to please and entertain the best element of society, and the attendance of over ten thousand on Thursday last year—l9ol—proves that our policy is correct. A clean fair is our specialty.” Tippecanoe County Agricultural Association and Fair. The readers of the epitomized histories of the county agricultural associations of the state will doubtless regret the paucity of the data relating to the Tippecanoe County association, which was organized in 1852—one year subsequent to the organization of the state board of agriculture—a half century ago—a period In which the agricultural wealth of Indiana has Increased to 'fabulous sum totals. Of all the farmers who in 1852 believed in the advantages to be secured by an agricultural association we have the name of only one, Henry T. Sample, who was president of the association In 1852. Tippecanoe county, with perhaps the largest area of any county in the state, 504 square miles, with a soil of extraordinary productiveness, has been producing immense crops, and In 1900 produced 5,439.842 bushels of cereals, 27,780 tons of timothy and clover hay, 46,782 bushels of Irish potatoes and had on its farms 55,758 head of live stock—in the aggregate prot bly an average year for several decades, by no

means an Inconsistent estimate, riving the county a most creditable eminence, and its agricultural association might have a widespread Influence in agricultural affairs throughout the state. The present officers of the Tippecanoe Agriculture association are: James Murdock. president; F. H. Gundt, treasurer, and C. W. Travis, secretary. It holds fairs annually, paying premiums aggregating 17.000 a year, which, if the amount Is an annual average. would nhow that since 1852 the association has paid In premiums $343,000. The estimated annual attendance at the fairs is 25.000, and the fair grounds and buildings are valued at $25,400. These grounds consist of eighty acres adjoining the city of Lafayette on the south. It is a beautiful wooded land with attractive natural scenery. A very large and prosperous fair is held every year. In 1865 the association was reorganized and the present grounds purchased, since which time the fairs have been held in the present location. Rpley County Agricultural Association. In 1874 the Ripley County Agricultural association was organized, with the fol-lowing-named officers: President—Resin Johnson Vice-President—Thomas J. Livingston. Secretary—Thomas E. Willson. Treasurer—John Benham. The present officers of the association tre: President —William Rosengarn. Vice-President—William C. Leslie. Treasurer —John Eckert. Secretary—R. A. Creigmlle. Stall Superintendent—Nick Wagner. Gates —George Sparling. Ripley county has an area of 450 square ■niles and rates fairly average tn agricultural products, producing In 1900 1,396,984 bushels of wheat, corn. oats, rye and barley, 36.606 tons of timothy and clover hay, 44,860 bushels of Irish potatoes, and in the

same year 35,241 head of Uve stock was reported to the state statistician. The population of the county in 1900 was 19,881, a gain of 531 during the decade, and the property of the county In 1900 was valued at $7,131,677, a gain in ten years of $3,327,681. The agricultural association holds annual fairs where elaborate preparations are made for the examination of horses, hogs, cattle, sheep, poultry, and farm products, as also fruit, and superintendents of the various departments are appointed to take charge of the exhibits and award the premiums, but the amount of the premiums paid is not stated. The average annual attendance at the fairs Is estimated at 5,000, and the value of the fair grounds and buildings Is placed at $4,000. The fair grounds include thirtytwo acres, with a fine grove and a good half-mile speed track. It Is worthy of remark that the farmers of Ripley county, for twenty-eight years, have maintained a healthy agricultural association, resulting in much benefit to the framing interests of the county and beyond its borders, and, as In other counties where such organisations are maintained, forming a bond of union between the various sections of the county and all the people who take an Interest in agricultural affairs. Wayne County Fair Association. Wayne county, one of the oldest counties of the state, situated about one hundred miles east of Indianapolis, has an area of 393 square miles, and in 1900 had a population of 38,970. It is well watered, has a prolific soil and is In al! regards well conditioned for agriculture. In 1900 it had under cultivation 106,723 acres, which were devoted to cereal crops, of which It produces, without Including wheat, 3,517,837 bushels. It had 852 acres devoted to Irish potatoes and produced 69,804 bushels. It also produced 51,128 tons of hay and clover and had 61,876 head of live stock. The fair association of Wayne county

was organised in 1890, though previously agricultural societies had been organised and flourished for a time, keeping alive the agricultural interests of the county. The first officers of the present organisation were: John Bowman, president; John Dick, vice-president; J. M. Loutz, secretary, and Knode Porter, treasurer. The present officers of the association are: L. M. Pierce, president; Hugh Allen, vice-president; L. S. Bowman, secretary, and Knode Porter, treasurer. The association holds annual fairs, which gre well attended and create a lively interest in agricultural affairs. From the first the association has appreciated the great advantages accruing by a liberal expenditure of money in the way of premiums and the amount awarded In that way aggregates from $2,500 to $3,000, the average being $2,750, and this has been going on for eleven years, giving a total of not less than $30,000. It is not surprising, therefore, that the attendance upon the Wayne county fairs ranges from 3,000 to 10,000 persons, and that since the association was organized at least 100,000 persons have been in attendance. The Wayne County Fair association leases Its fair grounds, and Its buildings are valued at $3,500. Elwood Driving Park and Fair Association. Elwood is one of the prosperous and growing cities of the gas belt. Its magical growth has been a matter of but a little more than a dozen years, and for six of those years It has conducted a prosperous fair. In 1895 a Driving Park and Fair association was organized with N. J. Leisure president, D. G. Evans secretary and F. 11. Harblt treasurer. Few, if any, fair associations in the state have been as successful as that of Elwood. The first fair was held in 1596, and each succeeding year has witnessed an increasing success. The average attendance is between 45.000 and 50,000. Each year has also witnessed an increase in premiums and purses, until this year they aggregate SIO,OOO. Both premiums and purses have always been paid in full. The annual recurrence of this fair is eagerly looked forward to by the people of Madison and adjoining counties. Much of the phenomenal success of the association is due mainly to two facts—the Interest manifested in the fair by the borne people, and to liberal and injudicious advertising. No pains or expense is spared to make the fair attractive, and the motto of the association is "Hustle and advertise, get the people and give them, fair treatment." The people of Elwood and Madison county are firmly convinced that there is only one fair held in the state that exceeds theirs in attractions and that Is the one given by the state association at Indianapolis. Such pride and interest in their home Institution Is very commendable, and if the people of each county would manifest the same interest and give the same assistance to their local fairs there would soon be a vast Improvement both in them and in the other agricultural interests of the locality. The grounds of the Elwood association are conveniently located and are a little more than a mile northeast of the city. The Improvements are In harmony with the spirit displayed by the management and the Interest taken by lue people. They are valued at about $12.000. Mr. Leisure has been the president from the organization of the association. The present secretary is Frank E. DeHority, who is well and favorably known to the fair-loving public. Benton-Warren Agricultural Society. "It Is a matter of common pride—universally conceded by all—that Benton and Warren counties are the agricultural gardens of Indiana, and embrace an area of territory rich in all the gems of agricultural wealth—a beautiful, rooting prairie, and traversed by clear, sparkling streams, skirted with timber, and dotted over with natural and artificial groves and attractive farm buildings, and when our fields are waving with varied colors of growing crops there is no place where the horn of plenty has been emptied with greater profusion.” So says the statement to the public by the Ben-ton-Warren Agricultural association, and it is the truth, and the people of those two counties may well take pride in the great agricultural resources of their section of the state, and also be proud of the lovely and Inviting natural history. The two counties have joined together for fair purposes and their annual meetings are held on beautiful grounds near the little town of Boswell. The association was organized June 5. 1890, with the following officers: President—Henry Robertson. Vice-President—Henry C. Harris. Secretary—George W. Cones. Treasurer—Hiram Bright. Since its organization the association has paid out $40,000 in premiums. The average dally attendance has been between 6.000 and 7,000. The buildings and grounds are now valued at $7,700. The fairs have been uniformly successful, the managers taking pride in having always paid premiums In full. The object of the management, as stated by them, Is to foster, promote and encourage stock and agricultural development In the two counties, and in this they have been liberally seconded by the people. The association is composed of leading men of the two counties, and fair dealing has been their aim in all transactions with the public. The present officers are: President—Hiram Bright. First Vice-President—H. C. Harris. Second Vice-President—Samuel Alexander. Treasurer—H. W. Dlmmick. Secretary—W. H. McKnight. Putnam County Fair Association. The grounds of this association are near the beautiful little city of Bainbridge and are counted among the most pleasant grounds for fair purposes in the state. Putnam county, in agricultural matters. Is one of the historic counties of the state. It was the original home of the blue grass, which has made the fame and fortune of our sister state, Kentucky. It was from Putnam county Kentucky got the seed of the grass. The county ought to have, and has had, since 1889, a successful annual fair. In that year a fair association was organiezd and grounds leased for its use. The first were; President—H. Pherson. Vice-President—N. W. Ader. Secretary—A. R. Allison. Treasurer—David Ader. The first fair was held in 1889 and was so successful that about 28 per cent, on the Investment was realized. This money was expended for additional Improvements for the next year. Annually since 1889 a fair has been held with constantly Increasing success. The premium list has averaged about $2,000 annually, and premiums have been paid in full, with the exception of the years 1893 and 1894, two years that proved to be very disastrous to fairs all over the state, owing to the great depression in business then prevailing. Every year the patronage of both exhibitors and people has been liberal, and the association has annually grown in popularity with the people. It is claimed that the half-mile track is one of the best, If not the best. In the state. As one of the officers recently said: "There may bo better tracks, but no driver or owner of a fast horse has ever told us of any better track anywhere." The lease of the grounds then occupied expired in 1900 and the association was reorganized and relncorporated with the following officers, who have annually been re-elected since that time: President—J. C. Bridges. Treasurer—George W. Starr. Secretary—A. R. Allison. The grounds and improvements are ▼glued at $5,000 and the association an-

nually adds to the Improvements, the desire being to make in time the best fair grounds in the state for the public, either as exhibitors or visitors. Hancock County Fair. Hancock county will not have a fair this year. On June 26 last a storm swept over a great part of the county, doing much damage to farm buildings and farm crops. Then, to add to the distress of the people smallpox made a visit to the citizens, especially those living around Greenfield. On account of the storm and the smallpox the directors of the agricultural society deemed it best not to attempt to hold a fair. Hancock county has had some famous fairs in the years that have gone. In 1885 an association was organized for the purpose of encouraging improvement In agricultural lines, and especially in the breeding of live stock, and for sixteen years a fair lias been held, paying annually $3,000 in premiums, or a total of $48,000. The attendance on these annual exhibitions has been about 12,000. The association, notwithstanding Its efforts to interest the people, has not met with that success during the last few years mat it has deserved, but it has always paid Its premiums in full. It owns forty acres adjoining the city of Greenfield, with ample buildings for the purpose and a most excellent speed track. Hancock is one of the best agricultural counties In the state and Is a fine field for stock raising. During the seventeen years of the existence of the agricultural society It has done much for the Interests of stock breeders as well as for the agriculturist. The association was organized in 1885 with the following officers: President—J. Ward Walker. Vice-President—John H. White. Secretary—Charles Downing. Treasurer—Nelson Bradley. The present officers are: President—Theophilus Hargrove. Secretary—John E. Dye. Treasurer—William C. Barnard. Great Northern Indiana Agricultural Fair. In August, 1901, a few gentlemen, citizens of Adams county, formed themselves into a fair association, and determined to hold a county fair the next month, as a surprise to the citizens. Ample grounds were at once secured and buildings hurriedly erected. On Sept. 24, just one month after the organization of the association, the first fair opened, under the auspices of the "Adams County Fair association." The success was phenomenal, and as soon as the fair closed the association determined to make a permanent thing of it, and endeavor to surprise the people each year, by increasing the attractions, enlarging the objects of the fair and extending the premium list. The first attempt at holding a fair was encouraged by an attendance of more than 30,000 people. The grounds are of surpassing beauty and the association has already added many improvements, especially in the matter of buildings. The management has Introduced a unique feature, and one that is bound to prove especially attractive. A portion of the grounds of the association have been set apart and devoted to experimental culture. Including a long list of foliage plants, vegetables, flowers and ahrubs, a large portion of which will mature about the time of holding the fair. The grounds of the association are valued at $20,000. Having met with such phenomenal success, and possessing such ample grounds, the association this year determined, as it was Intended to largely increase the premium list, and extend the circle of Its usefulness, to change the name, and instead of calling Itself an Adams county fair, to take the name of “the Great Northern Indiana Fair,” and then to make the meeting what its name indicates. The officers are: President—George Trlcker. Vice-President—M L. Smith. Secretary—T.. H. Harris. Treasurer—R. R. Schug. Switzerland and Ohio County Fair. The Switzerland and Ohio County Fair association has had an existence of a little more than half a century, having been organized October 11. 1851, and since that time has held a fair annually. At first the annual meetings peregrinated around among the various towns in the two counties. but In 1857 a permanent home was purchased, and now the grounds and Improvements are valued at $20,000. Ohio, geographically speaking. Is the smallest county in the state, if not In the United States, while Switzerland was one of the first settled on the Ohio river. The annual fairs are very successful. although not so large as those in some of the more populous districts of the state. The first officers were: President—Judge Hall. Vice-President—David Henry. Secretary—W. M. French. Treasurer—Jacob R. Harris. The present officers are: President—J. O. Shehane. Secretary—J. R. Elder. Treasurer—H. Anderson. Allen County. Allen Is one of the richest and most populous counties In the state, and at one time fairs were held within Its borders, but from some cause the Interest died out and the meetings* ceased. On the 17th of July, 1962, a meeting of the leading citizens, farmers, merchants and manufacturers was held, and an organization was effected with a capital of $15,000. This revival of interest is largely due to the efforts of Alexander Johnson, superintendent of the Btate school for feeble-minded. Articles of association, with one hundred and eighty stockholders, were adopted, the life of the association being made fifty years. It Is to be known as the Ft. Wayne Fair association. The new association takes the grounds of the Ft. Wayne Driving park, and will make extensive Improvements in buildings and In ornamentation. The list of stockholders Includes many of the largest manufacturers and business men of Ft. Wayne, who have both energy and knowledge to make the annual fairs to be held, successful in every way. The first fair will be held some time in October. St. Joseph County Agricultural Society. In 1885 a little association was formed in St. Joseph county for the purpose of encouraging agriculture, and took the name of the Farmers’ Union Fair association. It was Intended to hold fairs or exhibitions but no premiums were offered. In 1887, however, a small premium list was prepared and since that time premiums have been paid, but It has never been the object to make premiums the prime thing in the exhibitions. It was organised purely as an agricultural association, but as the years passed and the interest increased it has enlarged its object as well as its premium list until now manufacturers and merchants are as greatly interested in the fairs as tho farmers. All classes of producers are now enrolled among the exhibitors. One of the main objects of the fairs has been to advertise the rich resources, agricultural as well as mechanical, of St. Joseph county and in this abundant success has been met with. In 1892 the association was re-organized and took the name of The St. Joseph County Agricultural society. The present officers art; President—L. C. Egbert. Vice-President—E. L. Maudlin. Secretary—A. H. Compton. Treasurer—William H. Deacon. Steuben County. In 1853 the first fair was held in Steuben eounty and annually until 1882 fairs were held, but tho organization controlling

them was rather loose and they were not very successful. Several times there was talk of reviving the association but nothing dame of it until 1876 when a new organization was effected with the following officers: f • President—A. W. Hendry. Vice-President—H. D. Wood. Secretary—M. F. Crain. Treasurer—F. Macartney. This new organization at once began a successful career and beginning witn 1876 has annually held a fair, paying out since then more than $42,000 in premiums. It has never repudiated a debt nor prorated a premium. The average annual attendance has been about 9.000. The property owned is valued at $60,000. Jefferson County. We have no data as to when fairs were first held in this county, or when the present association was organized. The first officers of the present association were: President—William Wymond. Vice-President—Hiram Francesco. Secretary—Sydney E. Haigh. Treasurer—Thomas Graham. Annual fairs have been held for several years, at which an aggregate of $35,000 have been paid in premiums. The attendance has averaged from 12,000 to 16,000. The grounds and Improvements are valued at $15,000. The present officers are: President—C. R. Johnson, sr. Secretary—C. R. Johnson, jr. Treasurer—C. L. Ross. Montgomery County. In 1880 an association for conducting fairs was organized in Montgomery county with the following officers: President—J. N. Davidson. Vice-Presidents —J. C, Maxwell and Joseph Snyder. Secretary—F. L. Snyder. Treasurer—W. P. Heron. Fairs are annually held, and are very successful, having paid In premuiums since its organization $176,000, and it is estimated that the attendance has been more than three-quarters of a million. They claim to have the finest fair grounds in the state, the value being $3,000. They hold the world's record for trotting on a half-mile track. The association is very prosperous, being out of debt. The present officers are: President J. J. Insley. Vice-Presidents —M. B. Waugh and W. P. Herron. Secreary—W. F. Hulet. Treasurer—Johp 8. Brown. Laporte County. Sixty-four years ago the first fair was held In Laporte county. Rich as Laporte county is in agricultural and horticultural wealth, it was not very much sixty-five years ago. In 1840, two years after the first fair was held, the county had a population of 8,000 only. In 1838 three or four men of Laporte county banded together to hold a fair In the public square of Laporte. The leading spirits in this enterprise were Garland D. Rose, Alexander Blackburn and Ezekiel Provalt. Just

what success the enterprise met with cannot now be told. All those who took part In the exhibition have passed to the other shore, and It is now only a memory. The fair had two principal features, corn and apples, the latter, although there were at the time but few fruit trees in the county old enough to bear fruit. What changes Laporte county has witnessed since then. At that time all Indiana contained only 300,000 people. There was not a railroad in the state; the Wabash & Erie canal had just been commenced; there wae not a city in the state that had a population of 10,000; the state was just sinking under the load of debt it had incurred in the attempt to build railroads and canals. David Wallace was governor, and Martin Vanßuren president To speak of those things almost carry us back to prehistoric times, so long ago do they seem. At that time Morse had not dreamed of the electric telegraph, and in all the region west of the Mississippi river there were not as many people as Indiana had at the time. Then Indiana was known as the state where fever and ague was prevalent and its people were derisively called Hoosiers. North of the Wabash river at that time it was almost all swamp. The place where the fair was held had been Indian lands six years before. A little strip along the lake had been ceded by the Indians in

1826, but the larger 'part of the county was not ceded until 1832. Bo It could not have been much of a fair that was held on the public square of Laporte in 1838, but 'lt was enough to display the enterprise of those who originated and managed it. Six years roled away before another fair was held, and it also occupied the publio square. As near as can be nece'-talned the moving spirits in the exhibition of 1844 were Garland D. Rose, Elder Tucker, Henry Justice, William Irwin. Alexander Blackburn, Solomon Aldrich and Charles Cathcart. It was a more pretentious affair than that of 1838, for live stock formed a part of the exhibition. Elder Tucker exhibited a driving horse and Henry Justice a bull. Messrs. Blackburn and Aldrich contented themselves with exhibiting a display of apples. Mr. Cathcart had on exhibition the first cylinder threshing machine introduced into that ■section of the state. The first race in the county was also ridden at this fair. It was between a horse owned by Mr. Irvin, and a horse from Kentucky. Mr. George Caldwell, the rider of the Irvin horse, is still residing in the county. In 1851 an association was organized with Gen Joseph Orr as president. Since then fairs have been annually held. During that of last year $2,211 were paid in premiums.

THE COLONIAL REAPER.

CHARLES DOWNING, SECRETARY STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.