XX .0^ DR. J. M. SHAFFER, KEOKUK, IOWA Fir&t Secretary of the Iowa State Fair, held at Fairfield, 1-854. Served twelve years as secretary, being for the • years 1854-1855 and 1863 to 1873, inclusive. THE FIFTH ANNUAL Iowa Year Book of flgricKltUre ISSUED BY THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. CONTAINING Proceedings of the State Farmers' Institute and Agricultural Convention of 1904; Synopsis of the State Board and Com- mittee Meetings; Crop and Weather Report; Proceedings OF THE Iowa Swine Breeders, Iowa State Improved Stock Breeders and Iowa State Dairy Asso- ciations; Extracts from the State Dairy Commissioner's Report and National Dairy Union Papers on Live Stock, Agricultural and Miscellaneous Topics Early History of the Iowa State Fair, with Press Reports of the First Iowa State Fair (1854) and the Fair of 1904; Awards TO Iowa Exhibitors at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition; Statistics Relative to Farmers' Institutes in Iowa Reports of County and District Agricultural Societies, Togethei WITH Laws Governing Same. LIBRARY NEW YORK edited by botanical J. C. SIMPSON, GARDEN. SECRETARY STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTimE. STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS. GOVERNOR OF STATE Des Moines, PRESIDENT IOWA STATE COLLEiE - Ames. STATE DAIRY COMMISSIONER - Des Moines. STATE VETERINARIAN ........ Forest City. OFFICERS. W. W. MORROW, Presipeni Afton. C. E. CAMERON, Vice-President .--.... Alta. J. C. SIMPSON, Secretary -.-.-.- oes Moines, G. D. ELLYSON, Treasurer ....... Des Moines, DISTRICT MEMBERS. First District— r;S. JOHNSTON . . . - . Columbus Junction. Second District— C. W. PHILLIPS - - - - - - Maquoketa. Third District— W. C. BROWN Clarion. Fourth District— R. T. St. JOHN -..-.. Riceville, Fifth District— S. B. PACKARD ------ Marshalltown. Sixth District-T. C. LEGOE What Cheer. Seventh District— M. J. WRAGG ------- Waukee. Eighth District— JOHN LEDGERWOOD - - - - - Leon. Ninth District— M. McDONALD - - - - - . - - Bayard. Tenth District— O. A. OLSON ----- - Forest City. Eleventh District— H. L. PIKE . - . . - - Whiting. President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer are Elected for One Year. Terms of Directors for Odd-Numbered Districts Expire Second Wednesday in December 1905. Terms of Directors for Even-Numbered Districts Expire Second Wednesday in December, 1006. COMMITTEES. EXECUTIVE committee: W. W. MORROW, J. C. SIMPSON, C. E. CAMERON. AUDITING committee: JOHN LEDGER WOOD, C. W. PHILLIPS, W. C. BROWN. committee on resolutions: r. t. st. john, m. mcdonald, T. C. LEaOE. POWERS AND duties OF BOARD: GOVERNOR ALBERT B. CUMMINS, . - . . W. W. MORROW C. E. CAMERON. THE ADULTERATION OF FO©DS, SEEDS AND OTHER PRODUCTS: S. B. PACKARD, M. J. WRAGG, H. R. WRIGHT. DAIRY INDUSTRY AND PRODUCTS, INCLUDING FRAUDULENT IMITATIONS thereof: H. R. WRIGHT, O. A. OLSON, T. C. LEGOE. CONTAGIOUS DISEASES AMONG DOMESTIC ANIMALS: P. O. KOTO, ...--. - R. S. JOHNSTON, H. L. PIKE. IOWA WEATHER AND CROP SERVICE I J. R. SAGE, Director, DES MOINES. LIBRARY NEW YORK BOTANICAL TABLE OF CONTENTS. QAKDEN. PART I. PAGB State FarmSIis' Institute— Aqrioultural Convention— Synopsis of BoABD AND Committee Meetings, 1904 1-142 PART II. Crop and Weather Report for Season of 1904 143-174 PART III. Proceedings op Annual Meeting of The Iowa Swine Bbkeders' Asso- ciation 175-192 AND Proceedings of The Iowa Improved Stock Breeders' Association - 193-198 PART IV. Proceedings OF The Iowa S'tatb Dairy Association 199-324 PART V. Extracts from the State Dairy Commissioner's Report for 1904 - 326-338 PART VI. Papers on Live Stock, Agriculture AND Miscellaneous Topics - - 389-614 Live Stock Statistics, 339. Cattle, 352. Horses, 878. Swine, 385. Sheep, 397. Poultry, 405. Agriculture, 451. Horticulture, 494. Drainage, Sewage and Roads, 500. Miscellaneous, 545. PART VII. The Iowa State Fair, Its Early History, and Press Reports op the Fairs OF 1854 AND 1904 615-682 AND Harvest Thanksgiving Sermon, by Dr. Frank W. Qunsaulus - - 683-693 PART VIII. Awards TO Iowa Exhibits at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition - 695-710 PART IX. Farmers Institutes IN Iowa 711-719 PART X. Reports of County and District Agricultural Societies, and Laws 721-797 Governing Same - - - - ' CD cc en CL- LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL OFFICE OF IOWA STATE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Capitol Buildiicg. Des Moines, Iowa, January 25, 1905. To His Excellency, A. B. Cummins, Governor of Iowa: 1 have the honor to transmit herewith the Fifth Annual Iowa Year Book of Agriculture, for the year 1904. Very respectfully, JOHN C. SIMPSON. Secretary State Board of Agriculture. F^AFiTT !• STATE FARMERS' INSTITUTE— AflRICULTURAL CONVENTION AND PROCEEDINGS OP THE STATE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS POR 1904. Selection of Seed Corn — By Prof. P. G. Holden, Ames, Iowa. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE STATE FARMERS' INSTITUTE, HELD IN THE ROOMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 1904. The meeting was called to order by the president at 10 o'clock A. M. The President: Gentlemen, please come to order. The first on the program will be the address of welcome, by the Hon. Joe S. Trigg. REMARKS BY MR. TRIGG. Mr . President ^and Gentlemen of the State Farmers' histitute — The very pleasing duty has been assigned to me this morning of extending to you a few words of welcome in behalf of the State Board of Agriculture and the city of Des Moines. We gather here this morning, representing the largest and most impor- tant interest which the State of Iowa possesses. It is difficult to estimate the wealth and the prosperity that lies behind the work, eflforts and interests that you represent. Iowa for natural reasons, is and always must be an agricultural State. So large a percentage of the soil within her borders being susceptible of the highest development, she is denied what some other states possess —large forests, timber, lumber interests, and only a minimum of 2 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. manufacturing interests up to this time. Even the very coal that is dug out from under the fertile farms of this State is used to generate power to drive the locomotives to haul the farmers' grain to market; is used to run the manufacturers, to manufacture his tools and farm implements, and to help warm his home. And so it is safe to say, that the over-shadowing, far above any interest, is farming and agriculture. We meet this morning under especially favorable circumstances. The State has been unusually blessed the past year. The early and later rains which have fallen, and the genial sunshine, has resulted in bringing us abundant crops. True, for a time we were anxious; we feared, and the very question as to whether the corn crop would have time to mature, com- pletely obscured all interests in the great question of American politics. If you would meet two men upon the street and learned what they were talking about, it would not be politics; it would be corn. That was true all over the State this year, and it is the cause for a good deal of gratitude to the Giver of All Good, that sufficient and abundant harvests have rewarded our efforts. We read of other countries where things are not so well; where people are sufiEering for food to eat, and when we sit down and count our blessings, I can not see how any man can fail to feel proud as a citizen of the State of Iowa, when he sees- piled up there in the rotunda of the Capitol building the garnered wealth of the farm, the fruit from the orchard and the corn from the farm — a most interesting object lesson of what we are capable of doing. We come here from the homes of Iowa because we want to. You men are not drafted to come here. Your motive to come today, I know, is a just one, and that is, having learned something of the splendid possibilities connected with science as applied to agriculture, you today are anxious for more. You would invoke this mystic agency and thereby display the pro- ductive capacity of the soil and your income at the same time. This is a splendid mission. I am sure that your gathering together here today can not fail but bring the very best results, not simply to yourselves, but as you depart from this place, you carry with you the inspiration that shall lift and prompt others to do better. Just think of it for one moment! The average crop of corn in this State this year is probably about thirty-three bushels per acre. I know of corn, and you do, that will go eighty bushels. Just think of the numerous possibilities for improvement! It is your opportunity, your privilege today, to so discuss these questions as shall carry this gospel of good agriculture, science and agriculture blended, back to the farm and there start a new interest, a new agricultural civilization. The State Board of Agriculture and the city of Des Moines extend to you a cordial welcome. We are glad to see you here. Our city is large and good and great. The best citzenship of Iowa is not found in the large and ex- tensive homes of the cities, but scattered all over the broad prairies there is being nurtured and developed the best citzenship of the State. I trust that your meeting may be eminently pleasant and profitable, and that you will find your stay in Des Moines one of the happy occasions that fall to your lot. The city of Des Moines extends to you, gentlemen, a most cordial and hearty welcome. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 3 The President : We will now listen to a response to the address of welcome, by E. M. Wentworth, of Marshall County. RESPONSE BY MR. WENTWORTH. Mr . President and Ge7ttlemen—Th.e becoming modesty that has ever clothed agriculturists requires but the simple acknowledgment of the cordial welcome tendered by Brother Trigg, and a return of an equally hearty "We thank you. " Yet, in accordance with the usual custom and expectation of something more, we are glad of the opportunity to recall our bounties and give expres- sion to our personal good feelings. We also appreciate Brother Trigg's utterances, and we do not get "puffed up", because he is one of our num- •ber — the records of history, the reward of experience and the gift of prophesy, are his. He speaks agriculturally, and to agriculturists as one with authority. He is one of us; we are his chosen people. Nothing he has said can express, nor can words of mine express our abidi' g faith in Iowa's future, such as fills the minds of her citizenship. There is little need of saying that lowaJiad a particularly prosperous year. Consider it from every viewpoint, and the Iowa farmer today looks to the future with more confidence, in every sense, than he has for years. Somewhere I have read— I don't know the author — I hope he was a Hawkeye; I believe he must have been — these lines, that I am glad apply to Iowa: ' 'Her hands are strong, her fame secure. Her praise on lips whose praise is dear ; Her heart, her hope, her purpose pure ; The Queen of all the earth is. here. " The horizon is bright with the glow of dawn. We face the future with- out a fear. For years unborn, Iowa's wealth will be in agriculture and her farms famous. Touch elbows with opportunity; breed well, feed well, till well, live well! There are no words that will fully express the real and actual value of our Stete; language fails when we undertake to do it. ' 'Grandly in her ample lap Are annual harvests heaped sublime; Earth bears not on her proudest map A fatter soil, a fairer clime." Mr. Trigg, again we thank you on behalf of this metting for the cordial welcome which you have extended us. We have met with you for many years, and the warmth of your hospitality was never more cordial, nor your interest more marked, than during the past summer, when the citizens of Des Moines turned out so generally and aided to make the Fair a great suc- cess. We look forward to the future for still closer relations, and we believe the people of Des Moines realize, that the agricultural prosperity of the State is the safest basis for the business interests of the city to rest upon. Thus realizing, we expect in the future their full and free co-operation. 4 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The President: Before we proceed with our regular pro- gram, I want to say that after each paper or address, a reason- able time will be given for a discussion thereof, and any one de- siring to ask questions may do so. The next subject is entitled "Draft Horses," by H. G. Mc- Millan, of Cedar Rapids, a gentlemen who is not an importer, but a breeder of draft horses and Shorthorn cattle. DRAFT HORSES. H. G. M'mILLAN, cedar RAPIDS, IOWA. The breeding of draft horses is rapidly becoming one of the most im- portant as well as one of the most profitable branches of animal husbandry. Notwithstanding the advent of the electric car, the automobile and other inventions for carrying both passengers and freight, the demand for draft horses has constantly increased. In fact, the demand has increased much more rapidly than the supply and as a consequence prices for really first class drafters are higher than ever before known in this country. The fear that draft horses would be superseded by electricity as a motive power has proven to be without any foundation whatever, statistics showing that notwithstanding the use of electricity and other motive powers, more draft horses are now being used in all the principal towns and cities, in pro- portion to the population, than ever before. This statement might at first be doubted but a little reflection will satisfy any one that this is true. It is only necessary to call attention to a few instances where draft horses are now being used by the thousands where not many years ago they were hardly used at all. ' It is but a short time since the Standard Oil Company shipped practi- cally all their product in barrels to the retail trade. Now this is entirely done away with, their oil being shipped in tanks to principal stations and delivered to all small towns and even to the farm house door with the best draft teams they can buy. All the large packers now have refrigerator houses in the larger towns and deliver their dressed meats in heavy wagons to the retail markets. The brewers also have their refrigerator stations at all convenient points and deliver their product by teams in the same manner. I might go on and enumerate other instances almost without end where draft horses are now being used in great numbers where ten years ago they were hardly used at all. In the draft horse business it is no longer a question of demand but a question of supply. Where are the drafters to come from now so eagerly sought by the buyers at all the horse markets? Never was there such a scarcity of good ones. While the trade in draft stallions has been active for the past four or five years and there are now many good ones scattered over the country, the supply of heavy mares is very limited. The farmers who owned them sent them to market a few years ago be- cause they thought the days of profitable-horse raising had passed for all time. As a result of this unwise policy, before an adequate supply of drafters can again be supplied and placed upon the market, many draft FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 5 mares will have to be bred and raised to produce them. It will necessarily be many years before the exigencies of the situation can be overcome and as a consequence the price of draft horses is certain to continue for many years at least and in all probability they will increase in price more rapidly than they have in the past few years. Every farmer who has a good draft mare , or a pair of them , should breed them to the best draft stallion within his reach, for good draft colts are Certain to be as profitable as any stock he can raise on the farm. ' ' While pure bred stallions have been selling in many cases at seemingly high figures, pure bred draft mares can yet be obtained at a very reasona- ble figure. The Iowa or Illinois farmer who owns one hundred or one hun- dred and fifty dollar land can not make a better investment than to buy a pair or two of pedigreed draft mares. At the price such mares are now selling, if given proper care, they will bring in a larger return on the invest- ment than any stock that can be placed on this high-priced land. In addi- tion to producing colts that the draft horse breeders and dealers will gladly buy at one hundred to three hundred dollars when a year old, they will do the work required on the farm just as well, or better, than mares that pro- duce colts that are only worth a hundred dollars when fully matured. In fact, the draft mares of the country ought to be in the hands of the farmer instead of the larger breeders who can not make use of them for work and whose only profit is the value of the colts he raises. ' 'The farmer who works his mares stands a better chance to raise a good colt each .year than the man who breeds on a large scale and has no work for his mares to do. The farm work is beneficial to the mare, and with proper care is not hurtful to the foal. If the farmers of the Mississippi valley would adopt the suggestions I have made so that our draft' mares would be dis- tributed over the country, in many hands, earning their keep by daily work, there would be a large increase in the foals produce which would add greatly to the profit of the farmer and the country at large. ' 'There is no reason why the rich grains and grasses of this section will not produce a draft horse that in both bone and quality is equal to the best that can be produced in either France or the British Isles. The time has come when we ought to breed our own draft stallions instead of importing them from France and other European countries at a very heavy cost. Our high-priced land can not be put to any better use .than breeding and grow- ing these stallions. Our grasses are just as rich and our grains are just as good as can be grown in any country, and with the same care and attention we can produce draft horses that will meet the requirement of any breeder or any market. Ample foundation stock is now in this country to breed as good as can be bred anywhere, if the farmers and small breeders of the country can be induced to enter upon this branch of stock raising." If the Government at Washington would place restrictions upon the importation of horses by importers who are in the business solely as a com- mercial enterprise and who are in no sense of the word breeders at all, and in this manner encourage and protect the American breeders, much good would be accomplished in the way of stimulating draft horse breeding in this country. We would soon produce many high class stallions that would find a ready market at prices profitable to the breeder, and yet reasonable enough so that every neighborhood could well afiford to. buy one. Such stallions, in 6 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. most cases, would prove to be reliable foal-getters, and be of great value to the neighborhood instead of a disappointment and heavy loss, which is too often the case with imported stallions, especially when sold by irresponsible and often dishonest dealers who have no interest in the draft horse except what he can make out of a sale carried forward by smooth talk and sharp practices. I have always been a protectionist but I would like to see the principle applied to the farmer and breeder as well as to the manufacturer who de- pends upon the farmer and stock raiser to make a market for his goods. I would like to submit a few suggestions as to how to breed and develop the draft horse but my paper is already long and I can touch but briefly on this important point. HOW TO BREED AND DEVELOPE THE DRAFT HORSE. "First of all, good breeding stock must be obtained. Draft horses of the type, size, quality and action now demanded by the market cannot be pro- duced from undersized and inferior stock. Soundness is an essential requi- site and bone and quality are necessary; good feet can not be dispensed with and good action adds much to the value of the present day drafter. With the right kind of breeding stock the battle is half won but much depends upon the care and feeding. In my experience I have been surprised in late years at what can be accomplished in the development of bone and muscle by judicious feeding and plenty of outdoor exercise. If colts are permitted to have constant outdoor range, both winter and summer, with good sheds to run under in time of storm or severe weather, all they need is plenty of good grass— a liberal allowance of oats and bran with a little corn perhaps in the winter time; also corn fodder, bright oats straw and plenty of good hay for roughness. Under these conditions they will de" velop all the bone and muscle required, will be active and vigorous and when coming three years old will be sufficiently matured so they can be fed for the market and heavy weights obtained. With the constant outdoor ex- ercise and feed suggested, the colts have grown up strong and healthy, their bone and muscle are hard from constant use, their lungs are sound and their digestive organs are in good working order. ' 'In the fall after they are two years old they are well matured and when fed for weight will take on 'flesh rapidly and they have the bone and muscle to carry it. Draft horse breeding when carried on with judgment, either by the farmer or larger breeder, will be as profitable as any other branch of stock raising for many years to come and will always be profitable when intelligently pursued. It is important that the business should be encouraged in all legitimate ways. It is not only important to the farmer and breeder but equally important to the manufacturer and business man. The draft horse is an essential element in general prosperity. Without him commerce would lag and agricultural progress would be retarded. He is at the very foundation of all industrial progress, the farmer's friend and ally and the king of the market place." The President : Are there any questions you desire to ask Mr. McMillan? FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART I. 7. A Member : I would like to ask about what price the average farmer could afford to pay for these mares to put upon the farm? Mr. McMillan: Of course much depends upon the situation of each particular individual. [ may say generally, that in my opinion, the present price of draft mares is entirely too low. I judge largely from the prices I have obtained myself at the pub- lic auctions I have held. I have held five annual sales of Percheron horses, mostly mares. These mares have sold at at prices ranging from two hundred and fifty to four hundred and fifty dollars, averaging somewhere in the neighborhood of three hu];idred dollars each ; good mares, say four or five years old. I believe that any intelligent farmer that knows how to handle horses could well afford to take a pair of good draft mares, 'say four or five years old, and pay one thousand dollars for the pair. I believe it would be as good an investment as a good shorthorn cow at one hundred dollars; I think they would pay a good interest on the investment. We do not appreciate the value of good draft mares in this country yet, but we soon will. Now, since 1892 there have been practically no draft mares imported, because the people of this country are not willing to pay the prices justifying their im- portation . Draft mares today, in England and France, are higher than in this country. It seems to me strange that farmers and breeders will go out £.nd pay all the way from one thousand to three thousand dollars for a stallion, and yet they hesitate and think the price is high when the mother of these stallions sells for three hundred to five hundred dollars, I have not been in France myself, but have talked with a great many importers and people acquainted with the methods there. I am told that in France the farmers, the men who work the land, have all these Percheron mares; that these men who you see named as im- porting breeders as a matter of fact do not raise these colts at all, but they are raised by the individual farmers, who has a team or two teams ; the man named as breeder being the owner of the stallion, he having an arrangement with the owners of the mares, and he having the privilege of selecting from the colts such as meet the demands of his trade. So that the farmers raise these colts and then the dealer buys them and feeds them and gets them in condition to sell to the American buyer. 8 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Now, there are a great many breeders in this country, men who are trying to raise draft horses to meet the requirements of the breeding pubUc, who would be only too glad to have the farmers take these mares and raise these colts and to sell them to us that we might develop them. The business of developing is a business for itself. The farmer can keep the colt until it is about a year old; then it should be turned over to the man who has pastures, fences and accommodations. I think that the farmers of the country here should give attention to this method of stock raising, and there is no question but for the next ten or fifteen years at least there will be a demand for all the good stalUons we need. We will find markets away from us; we can send them to Canada and Argentine. Mr. Trigg: Mr. President, don't you think we ought to tender the gentlemen a vote of thanks for showing to us in his paper how the Standard Oil Trust has at last proved a great blessing to the farmers of Iowa? The President: The next paper is entitled, "Some Thoughts for the Cattle Feeder" by A. L. Ames, of Buckingham, Presi- dent of the Corn Belt Meat Producers' Association. Prefatory to reading his paper, Mr. Ames said : The question assigned me is so broad and involves so many different con- ditions and heads, that you will not be surprised at all if I omit a great many of them that are prominent in your minds today. I will only touch on a few, and I hope that as to any questions that will be asked, some one will be able to answer them and bring out the different points that you all know should be brought out before we are through. SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE CATTLE FEEDER. BY A. L. AMES, BUCKINGHAM, IOWA. Among the varied industries of this, and other states there is none of more importance than the production of meats. In order to fully appre- ciate the trend of affairs for any definite period it is necessary, in almost every case, to go back over a series of years and note the changes, if any, that have been made, and the conditions under which such changes were made. That great changes have been made in all branches of farm in- dustry is most apparent to all, who but stop a moment and reflect on meth- ods and conditions of twenty-five or thirty years ago. Since the close of the Civil War this country has seen the most marvelous advancement known to history. Unbroken prairies have been converted into farms, and they in turn have made possible flourishing cities, and wealthy states have been added to our public domain. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART I. 9 The science of irrigation is today changing the Western desert and lava beds into beautiful farms, and fruitful orchards, while drainage laws are making possible many new acres of most valuable land here within our own beautiful State. Among all this scheme of growth, advancement and wealth in agricultural states, and especially here within our own beautiful Iowa, there has been nothing of more importance than the live stock indus- try in bringing about the changes noted. If this is true (and I believe you are all willing to concede the point), then it becomes apparent that such an industry must be protected against unfair or unjust discrimination or prac- tice. That the law of supply and demand be allowed to govern the output of all products of the farm. It is by this means alone that the ''Plain people," as Lincoln terms them, are able to maintain the position in this body politic they now hold. In changing the annual products of our farms into material wealth there are five separate and distinct factors. First— The producer, or the man who combines grains and grasses of the farm with animals, and manufactures the finished product ready for the market, and the shambles. Secondly— The transportation company, which provides the means of transferring these animals from the location where they were grown to the place where they can be consumed. Third — The packer, as the individual, company, corporation, or trust, is called, who converts these animals into edible material. .Fourth— The retail merchant, who distributes these products to their many patrons. Finally, the consumer, the one we all serve, and for whose benefit and pleasure we all have labored. In each of these departments the animal should pay toll, unless through fault or negligence of the individual operator. As each is dependent upon the other in the many stages of the animal from yard to block so should all be interested in maintaining a living profit to everyone. I do not mean b}'' this that the chances of loss should be eliminated entirely. We all know that every business venture at some period of its history will present a risk. What I do mean is, that under normal conditions market values, should be on a steady and even basis, in order that the originator of the product can form a reasonable estimate of the profits of the business before beginning operations. The business of feeding and finishing cattle for the market and consumption, has been, and necessarily must be, one of exceptional hazard. The length of time necessary to manufacture the product, and place it upon the market, gives oDpcrtunity for a change in the demand for this product, and relative change of values. The one item more than all others, that affects the productive cost is the feed bill, or the value of the grains and grasses that have been consumed. The question of animal husbandry is only another method of condensing bulk into smaller packages, conse- quently the values of lands and rental of the same, as well as the price of grain consumed, must be considered as factors in the problem. There are two distinct methods of producing beef, or making fat cattle. We will not go into these in detail, but, briefly stated, one is the production of the finished animal by taking the calf and continually using the forcing process until sold. The second method, and the one most used, is to grow 10 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTMRE. the cattle for a certain period, usually two years for natives, and three years for rangers, on grass and coarse feed on the farm or range, after which they are placed on a grain ration for a length of time, and made ready for the market. The first item, then, in the feeding problem is the cost of steers at this period; second, the price of corn, and other feeds used; third, the cost of transportation; fourth, what the steer sells for in the market. At this point the producer steps out of the problem and returns home to count his profit or loss, as the case may be. As great changes have been made in the industrial world, so have there been equally as great in the consumptive department. A few years ago corn was the only fattening feed used here in the West; now the feed yards and farms must handle all manner of "by products." Corn has become an article of necessity in the old world. The feeder of today must be able to compete with the export and manufacturing demand in the price of corn, when securing supplies for his feed yard. Twenty years or so ago a feeder could buy his corn for eighteen to twenty-five cents. In recent years, and particularly the last two, he has paid from thirty to sixty, or more than double the former price. When you know that an eleven hundred pound steer will consume twenty-eight pounds of corn a day, or its equivalent, and that it will take from one hundred and twenty to one hundred and eighty days, and in many instances a good round year to place him on the market you begin to realize that it costs something to make a fat animal. Taking, then, the first item of expense in the feed yard, the price paid for 1,000 to 1,200 pound feeders, I find that from January to May, 1902, heavy feeders of good quality cost 4i cents per pound, and sold in the market at $6.50 to $6.75, that the price of corn fed these cattle during this feeding period, cost approximately one cent per pound. In this same year I find that I paid for one drove of feeders bought in the Chicago market, in the last days of August, $5.25 to $5.50 per hundred; one drove of Dakota cattle, $5 25 F. O. B. feed yard; on September 3d, in Kansas City, one drove, $5.20; on Septem- ber 10th, in Chicago again, a drove of North Dakotas, $4.70. In sixty days from the time of the first purchase, I began marketing these cattle at $7.30 per hundred weight, and from that price down, according to the length of time held after the 29th day of October, 1902. You ask why I select this date as a landmark in the price of cattle? It is in accordance with certain convictions I have regarding the trend of the market, and the reasons governing the same, but without other proofs than circumstantial evidence, but evidence, which to my mind is sufficient to warrant such conclusions. You who are familiar with stock yard practices know, that every feeder was encouraged early in the season of 1902, to do as large a 'business as possible. Every assurance was given him of getting a good market as the season advanced. Rumor gave a report that certain inde- pendent and competitive industries located at the stock yards were to be whipped into line during the season in order that market values could be better maintained in the future. In plain terms, it was understood that the "Big Four" would have no interference with their business, and that ihey intended to whip competition into an agreerent by the use of usual busi- ness methods. That the prices established during the early season of this year were beneficial to the producer, for a short time at least, is true, but on the 29th FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 11 day of October, if I remember rightly, this same old lady, Dame Rumor, spread the report that an agreement had been reached, and the war closed. I started home by next train to market cattle as fast as human energy and steam could get them in, but the speed of our stock trains was nothing in comparison to the way the price of cattle went down. You can all recall the condition of the market at the close of 1902 and the season of 1903, men of courage and skill put time, money and care upon the altar of good faith, only to be sacrificed by the greed of a monop jly that expects to filch unceasingly from the larder of the producer. The past few years has seen a most wonderful advancement made in the methods of feeding and the combinations of grains, that form the feeding ration, and the apparent results as evidenced in the beef product. Our col- leges have been of great assistance in determining many of these methods, with some mistakes, I grant you, but on the whole a most wonderful advance- ment. The transportation question is under advisement, and 1 trust will reach satisfactory conclusions, as a better understanding is had of the needs each for the other. It is time the people wakened up to the fact that they have great interests at stake, as well as the railroads, and that their enter- prise and labor made it possible for these traffic lines to be builded. Why then, let me ask, is it unreasonable for us to ask to be represented in estab- lishing rates used on these lines? Just at this time the question of enlarging the power of the Interstate Commerce Commission is being urged upon Congress. It finds its most bitter opposition, I am sorry to say, from men whose constituencies are among the producers of the West. Let these men remember the magnificent grants of land as well as taxes that have been voted by the people, for the building of these roads, and then say, if they can, the people have no right. There is a place where patience ceases to be a virtue, and the patience of the producer has about reached its limit on many of these questidns. We ask nothing unreasonable, we want no favors. What we do want, and expect to obtain, is fair and impartial treatment with no favors shown such corporations as Armour, Swift and other concerns, who are able to dictate the rebates they are to receive for the privilege of furnishing their own cars, and say just how they are to be handled. It is high time that investigation along these lines, as well as many others , be made. In order that this work may be carried on intelligently it is necessary to have a definite understanding and a well aefined plan. The Corn Belt Meat Producers' Association is organized for this purpose, and I respectfully urge everyone interested in these questions to become a member of this association, and aid by his good will and small per capita tax the solving of these problems. The last and most important factor of the feed yard business is the selling price of the cattle, when placed upon the market As this is the most important, it is also true that it is the one most manipulated, and about which the least is known. The price of the feeding steer should be largely controlled by the cost of production, and as roughage forms a greater part of his feed the price naturally does not vary greatly. It is only in years like 1902 that a wide spread of prices is noted. The Drovers Journal recently quoted the average price of feeders for 1902 at $5.15; in 1903 $3.65; 1904 $3.65 for range bred cattle. Years prior to 1902 the price maintained about the same as 1903-4. The price of corn has been high for some years. As the market for this product is continually widening it stands to reason that 12 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. we must either raise more corn or feed a higher price product, or feed fewer cattle. The cost of transportation is no less, but rather more on the whole, as the roads are taking longer time to move stock, which gives a propor- tionate greater shrink, and often a lower price on the market. When in addition to this we meet the close combination of prices on the market, that we have been getting the past two years, the only wonder is, that anyone has the nerve to ' 'go against" the proposition of feeding cattle. The diffi- culty seems to be in furnishing the kind of cattle wanted. One year ago pens were full of heavy choice cattle. They were produced at the request of the packers. The demand for all kinds of meat was good. The price on the block was a little lower, if any, than that of the preceding year, but thousands of cattle were sold that did no more than pay for the corn they had eaten. Can you blame a man for thinking he is "held up" when he gets back only enough money to pay his corn bill, and has to lose the cost price on his steers, and interest on his money, risk of loss by accident and death as well as his labor, at the same time see this beef sell to the consumer at practically the same price as when he was receiving enough for his cattle to make him a good profit? You will sav that today these cattle are bring, ing good prices. It may be true, they probably are making a little money, but let a few loads too many arrive every day for a month, and see what happens. Mr. Packer must have something with which to hammer prices, and he selects the most convenient tool at hand. The class of cattle known as good cattle should bring relatively a steady price, they make a staple product, and should be classed as such in the market of the world. The question today is how to make feeding profitable, and again secure for the business the standing lost during the two years passed. The first step in this direction must be that of securing better bred animals. Mr. John Gosling, or "Uncle John" as he is more popularly known, in referring to this question, says: ' 'Remember that flesh is bred on animals (it cannot be fed on, at least to any great degree) and that fat is fed on. Then remember, also, that big bone goes with big flesh and small bone with fat." This coming from a man who is undoubtedly a master of the art which tells from outside appearances the flesh qualities of a bullock, gives great value to the opinion. You must breed for flesh; you can feed on fat. The successful feeder must in the future look more closely to the quality of the cattle he secures for his feed yard. More attention must be given to the quality of sires used. The great amount of trash ordinarily seen in all the markets should cease to be, and the good ones made into a paying prod- uct. The differance between the good and poor was never more apparent than at the present time. Never in the history of the cattle trade have bet- ter animals been produced, and never so many that are utterly impossible of any good to any one even with the best of care and feed. There are others that could and undoubtedly would have been fed into prime animals, if the feeders of the country had not lost all confidence in the outcome of the market. Here is the real difficulty. One season finds light inferior stuff, with no breeding, with nothing in their favor, selling for almost as much as the well finished fancy bullock, and perhaps within a twelve months, as at the pres- ent time, you find these conditions completely reversed. Is there any way to better regulate these unequal conditions? They can be bettered? Yes; FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK PART I. 13 Entirely regulated? No. Let us have a free and untrameled competition at the yards. Let the Commission Men's Association be reorganized and put on a more equitable basis. Let the buying orders come through the natural and usual channels, and all packing plants be compelled to run on an independent basis, and I believe we will see confidence again re- stored to the feeding business of Iowa and peace an- prosperity once more control this, the greatest industry of our State. The President: We have some time yet, and the paper is open for discussion. C. W. Mills: I would hke to ask Mr. Ames if he considers the quality of beef cattle in the State of Iowa deteriorating? Mr. Ames: I take it the gentleman asks with respect to the cattle raised in the State of Iowa. I think it is harder work today, for the feeder to go out through the different counties of the State of Iowa and select well bred, perfect feeders than it was fifteen years ago. I would also state along these lines that a short time ago I received a report from the general manager of the stock yards, giving the number of feeders that had gone out from the different stock yards into the country to feed. I was surprised to find there were about one hundred thirty-five thousand to one hundred fifty thousand cattle less had gone out this fall than had gone out the previous year— that means about one week's run on the different markets of the west — but I will say in opposition to that, that this year was the only year for the last ten, when I, for instance, could go out and get cattle for my feed yard from my neighbors. I think the same thing has occurred in the different parts of the State. This means a great many more than one hundred thirty-five thousand have been put into the feed yard that have not gone into the distributing yards to be counted. I will say, unhesitatingly, that the grade of beef cattle raised in the State of Iowa is many per cent less than it was ten or fifteen years ago. A Member : To what does Mr. Ames attribute this; what is the cause that cattle of proper grade can not be selected now equal to what they could be fifteen years ago? Mr. Ames : I can only express my opinion about these things. One of the reasons, I think, is the high price of land. Perhaps that sounds unreasonable; but I think so. It works in this way : In the last ten years the owners of farms in the State of Iowa have gone to town and they have rented their farms to men who work them for them. Those people have gone into 14 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. grain raising largely. They are going to take that farm and get every dollar out of it they can. They do not put the money into a herd of cattle on those farms, as did the original owners. I believe that is the prime cause. The renter will simply' go out and buy a grade or common animal which he can buy anywhere for from fifty to sixty dollars. Those are the men who sell their stock and cattle ; thqse are the men who raise feeders in the State of Iowa today. I think a change is coming. I believe it is easier to sell well bred animals today than it has been for the last few years. You have got to overcome the fact that the owners have put their farms out for rent, and these renters are selling grain instead of raising good beef. Mr. Trigg: If you buy a steer at four cents a pound and keep him a year, and land is worth SlOO an acre, and you finish him of and put him to market on corn worth fifty cents a bushel, what price have you got to have to make a profit? Mr. Ames: With Mr. Trigg's permission I will answer that question by asking Mr. William Drury to state what it cost him to winter a bunch of cattle last winter. Mr. Drury: I did not expect that I would be called upon to make a statement to you gentlemen here. I happen to know very closely what it cost, having bought all my feed in the shape of snapped corn and fodder, and invoicing my hay at the same price it was bought. I fed SI, 000 worth of feed to 100 head of cattle from the first day of January to the 29th day of April. I weighed the cattle in on the first of January and I weighed them out on the 29th day of April again. I figured my gain and had an average gain of SlOO, or equal to the SI, 000 for the feed, or S400 gain Mr. Trigg: Did you think that paid? Mr. Drury: No, sir. Mr. Martin: Has it not been the experience of every feeder in the State of Iowa, in the past two years, that long feeds have lost money all the time. (Several voices). Yes, yes; short ones too. Mr. Ames: There are no cattle that bring so little today for the killing value as the steer fed from sixty to one hundred days. You may go out and see the best kinds of meats; you can go into the country shop and select prime bodies that are sold today from S4 to S4.35; those cattle have eaten from sixty to one hun- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 15 dred days; you look at them in the yard and you would think they were prime animals; they ought to be worth $1.50 more. I do not believe it pays a man who sells his steers for S7.50 to feed them a year on fifty and sixty cent corn. Mr. Martin: I am not a feeder myself, yet I am engaged in it and have been for fifteen years. My experience on two loads of cattle this past season is this : The corn was pretty high ; I had two loads of cattle and only put one in the yards. We fed them until the first of December. The other load we turned out into blue grass pasture until the first of October and put it in the lot and fed it a little corn up to the first of December. I got 81 a head more for my short feed than I did for the long feed. Counting the price of corn, my experience is, short fed cattle paid best this year. Mr. St; John: I am not from Missouri, but from northern Iowa ; yet 1 will have to be shown in regard to one statement Mr. Ames makes, and that is, why it is that he can not select a good grade of feed steers in Iowa at this date, as well as he could fif- teen years ago, when we people who are trying to raise and have been raising fine stock from the different herds all over the State of Iowa, and with the reputation this State has for fine stock. I can not understand that part of his argument. I confess, in northern Iowa it is much the reverse as to the se- lection of feeders, and it does seem to me that Iowa is deserving a little better record than that in the way of feeding steers. Mr. Ames: In reply to Mr. St. John's statement, I desire to say, that I ought to have qualified my statement and said, in my locality. I want to go still further and say there are locali- ties where they are using better bred steers. I will repeat, that in many locations, where these men who own their own farms have gone to town and depend on the man who pays as high as S4.50 an acre for these farms, you will find cheaper class of cattle. I will also say that my experience has been, that selling on the range to the northwest has been bettering rather the last few years; there has been a gradual change and more of a de- mand for our home product. But before that, my buyers came from North and South Dakota, and some of them from north- western Iowa. Mr. Trigg : Isn't the creamery everlastingly at war with the beef? 16 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF' AGRICULTURE. Mr. Ames: I am quite a man to think the old cow and pail do pretty well yet. I want to qualify this feeder business. I believe that the hand-separator is going to be a great help to the Iowa farmer ; I want to say further that I have got one of my own. I do not milk many cows, yet I have enough that the boys pay for their own way. I milk my registered cows, many of them. I believe a man as a feeder ought to have judgment enough to go into a district where they raise, the right kind of cattle and get them for his feed yard. I do not think it is compulsory for a man to buy in a dairy district. With the use of the hand- separator, I believe it is possible to milk a cow in Iowa and make a succees of it. Mr. Packard: As to this point, about the lack of competi- tion in the Chicago market, I would like to ask, if any one knows if the investigation that has been carried on in reference to that, whether there has been found any ground which the Government can base an action against the packers and break the combine? Mr. Drury: I happened to be in the yards yesterday and I was told by a very prominent commission man there, who was told by the head inspector there now and who has been there for the last six months, that they had positive evidence that the prices were fixed every day, and that they had positive evidence that each packer had his exact district to work in. He says, we have four big packers on the market; one individual packer buys the keepers; the next one, the canners; another gets the fat cows, and the other the choice heifers. Therein, he says, all competition is eliminated. The next day it is reversed and we have one of the Big Four buying one kind of cattle, and so on again. Where is the competition coming in? Mr. Ames: I do not believe anybody knows any more than hearsay, in my opinion, as to this Government inspection. If it is going to be a secret investigation, it is very likely to be so. I myself have great doubts of the matter, in the way they have gone at it. These are however the facts, as Mr. Drury states it, as we all know. The President : We have with us today a swine breeder of thirty years' experience, who is now a member of the executive committee of the International Stock Show. Mr. A. J. Lovejoy, • FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 17 of Roscoe, Illinois, who will read a paper, entitled "Swine Breeding." Before reading his paper, Mr. Lovejoy said : You have all listened to a very elegant paper on cattle feeding and breeding; also one on the breeding of draft horses, and I suppose it was necessary to have some one to defend the hog, and you had to send clear over to Illimois for him. SWINE BREEDING. f A.J. LOVHJOY, ROSCOE, ILLINOIS. Swine breeding is not a very high sounding name, and many there are who look upon this species of farm animals with disfavor if n-ot with absolute disgust, yet the hog is known over the entire world and is confined to no one part in particular. He is the animal which the ancient sacrificed to the Godess of the Harvest (Ceres). He is also, as the Irishman said " The gentle- man that pays the rent." The utility of the hog is in a great measure owing to its remarkable fecundity, reproducing at one year of age and bearing from five to ten at a time and often more. Some statistician who handles figures with great ability, has estimated the produce of a single sow with only six young at a time in ten generations to amount to the grand total of six million five hun- dred thousand (6,500,000). This number will no doubt equal the statistics of the American hen as given by the ardent advocates of her producing quality. It takes a great statistician to get ahead of a hen crank. MONEY IN HOGS. The hog has been a reliable source of revenue on the American farm since the earliest recollection of man. In olden times the small farmer and early settler raised but a few, and the mechanic or laboring man of the vil- lage as well as the Irishman on the section each had his pig to consume the refuse of the kitchen and dairy and to supply the family with good old fash- ioned pork and sausage, as well as spare-rib and head-cheese, and at the present day the up to date American hog, supplies in his various products the wants of the people of the civilized world, not only with choice bacon and hams, but with lard, illuminating and lubricating oils, sausage, souse, combs, brushes, buttons, knife handles and ornaments of many kinds. Even the blood, a portion of the bone and waste scraps of meat, uot other- wise used, is manufactured into by-products to be used as feed, among which are blood-meal, bone-meal and tankage, which latter is one of the best feeds yet discovered to combine with corn meal and other fat forming feeds for the use of pork production; coming as near making a balanced ration when used in proportion of 75 to 80 per cent corn meal and from 20 to 25 per cent tankage, as can be found. You will note by this that there is no waste in the slaughter of swine at the present day, that after he has passed through one of the great killing and curing establishments at Chicago, there is prac- tically nothing lost in the process but the squeal. Some people do not like 2 18 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. swine breeding and feeding, such should let it alone, for to succeed in the handling of any kind of farm stock, one must like the animals and the work. You often hear the remark "As dirty as a pig." This is a villification of the animal which Beniamin Franklin's colored servant said "Was the only gen- tlemen in England," from the fact that he was the only animal that did not have to work in that country. It is a well known fact that in most respects, the hog is the most cleanly of our domestic animals, and unless closely con- fined in small quarters will always keep himself and his bed clean. In this respect he is much cleaner than the horse or cow. ' 'It has been said that the hog is a machine that oils himself, puts ten bushels of feed into less space than a bushel measure and in so doing doubles its value, then can carry it to market on his back. Corn, barley, oats, grass, rape, clover or any of the by-products of these loaned to a well- bred, thrifty hog, is money at big interest. In fact, it is a mint, the grains and grasses are the bullion, which put into the hog is transmuted into coin. It is an honest mint, and gives sixteen ounces avoirdupois of edible meat. Properly bred, fed and intelligently handled this autocratic porker will pay off our debts , furnish the money to improve the farm , place a piano in the home, a carriage at the door, as well as means to educate our boys at the Agricultural College. He furnished the means for us at home on the farm to build in 1902 a general farm barn that complete cost a little over $5,000. The breeding of swine with us is a specialty, and during 1902 the sales of hogs alone from our 300-acre farm on which your speaker lives, was "$10,260, not bought and sold, but with the exception of four or five were all grown on the farm dur- ing the year. I also read a few days since a detailed statement in an agri- cultural journal of an Iowa farmer, who stated that the sales from an eighty-acre farm which, if I remember right, was a little over $2,000 for the year; nearly all was from the sale of hogs for market purposes. There was scarcely a month in the year that this man did not sell more or less hogs to be shipped to market, and the hogs were by far the most profitable produce of the farm So much for hogs in general." THK BEST HOG TO RAISE. "Now, I suppose many of you think I am going to name some particular breed, or that I have an 'ax to grind;' far from it. The best hog to raise is the one that best suits your fancy, or that you think is best adapt d to your surroundings. There are many good breeds, all very similar, and any of them will pay you well if properly cared for; and also, any of them will die of the cholera or swine plague if the germ gets into the herd, sure cures to the contrary notwithstanding. This matter of swine disease, while a great drawback to the business, is something that no man has yet mastered. There are all kinds of beliefs regarding this disease as well as cures. From an experience of nearly thirty years as a swine breeder, I must admit I know as little about it now as I did in the beginning; one thing that I do know is, that no matter in how good a condition the animals may be or how few are kept together, or what the feed may be, or the weather, if the germ once gets into the herd they are practically a goner. I personally know of cases where nearly the entire herd has been lost and the hogs were in perfect health and condition, not over six or eight in a place, the lots being good FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 19 grass and clean sleeping place, clean feeding floors and troughs, hogs regularly disinfected, pens also; fed only the best feed for growing animals, some with very little corn mixed with the feed and many of them with none, yet the disease broke out In a very malignant form, sweeping four-fifths of the herd, yet with other farmers in the neighborhood who gave no attention whatever to their hogs, other than to feed them, lost no more or as many in proportion to the number, and in the same neighborhood, still another farmer lost none; and so it goes over the difiEerant states, yet possibly for a series of years swine plague may not be such a curse after all. Were it not for this, who could venture to prophesy what the future price of hogs would be on the market in five years. Their number would simply be marvelous. MARKET DEMANDS. "The market now demands quite a different style of hog than in former years, and yet any kind of a hog will bring the ready cash, but not all with equal profit. The most profitable hog for the general farmer to raise is one that will with good care and feed reach a weight of from one hundred and seventy-five to two hundred and seventy-five pounds in the shortest possible time. To do this he must be a pig of good length of body, a good feeder and make a part of his ration of grass, rape or clover. There has been of late years a great hue and cry about the ' 'Bacon Hog," and there are some who think we should return to the old type of fifty years ago, thus losing all the improvement made by selecting and breeding for all these years, losing the improvement in early maturing and feeding qualities of our modern hog. To the farmers too far north to grow profitable crops of corn something bordering along the Bacon Type of pig can be produced at a good profit from any of the improved breeds of this day, when if sold at a weight of one hundred and seventy-five to two hundred pounds would make prime bacon and superb hams. Speaking of bacon and hams, it is said that the prin- cipal reason our hams and pork products are discriminated against in London (England) and Limerick (Ireland) markets is because of their better quality, and that they can be sold cheaper than those produced in their own country." AMERICAN HAMS. It is a recorded fact that the highest priced fancy pork products sol^ in Ireland by the Limerick dealers was put up in Chicago, and by special instructions marked with private brands of Limerick dealers, who for years have been selling American hams and bacons for the continent as "Best Irish Hams and Bacon." The authority of this can be found in Consular Reports, number 122 and number 129. It is a matter of record also that the Bacon Curers Association of Great Britain, who prosecuted the Junior Army and Navy Stores of London for selling American Hams for Irish, secured a fine and costs, amounting to $360. Investigation showed that the American Hams were changed to Wiltshire hams by oiling them and rubbing them with meal, then branding them ' 'Finest Wiltshire." They were then put on the market as the genuine Irish product and sold for twenty-four cents per pound, while the remainder of the identical consignment brought but fievcnteen cents per pound, sold as American product. A correspondent for an Eastern paper; living at Leeds, England, states that in their market the 20 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. best American hams were selling at thirteen cents, and needed no ' 'faking." All the American farmer needs to do is to keep up the quality of his product, and the English market is assured. Thus it would seem that we do not need any change of breeds to produce either highest quality of bacon, hams or other pork products. BEST FEED FOR GOOD RESULTS. "If we wish to grow the bacon type and cater to that trade, we can do so by selection and feeding, and to accomplish this we have only to select the larger, more rangy sows for breeding. Then by a system of feeding the by- products of the mills and the dairy as well as some of the by-products of the packing houses in connection with good pasture, and less corn we can pracically accomplish the result. When the packers will pay a premium for bacon hogs, it may pay to cater to this trade, but in the Illinois corn belt where corn is the cheapest feed, the thick meaty, early maturing type of hogs will make the farmer the most money with the least expense, and yet this very corn ration as fed by many farmers has done much to weaken the constitution of the present day hog, and this coupled with the too common method of each year selecting young sows from the herd that are immature for breeders and selling the older ones is the prime cause of the small, fine boned, chuflEy hogs seen on many farms, that each year shows a decrease in size as well as a decrease in the number of pigs raised in the litter. While I am an advocate of early maturity, I want a pig that while it will make 225 pounds at six months of age or from 250 to 275 pounds at eight months, I want him of such conformation and length of body with the feeding quality to grow him to 375 pounds and upward at the age of one year, and if a sow and kept for a breeder in the herd, one that will weigh at maturity from 500 to 600 pounds, or if a male one that will weigh even more. We have now at home on the farm a boar that weighed 787 pounds in his yearling form when shown, and carried this weight with ease. His sire also weighed at the age of sixteen months, 740 pounds. To get this weight we must have good length of body, plenty of bone and good feeding qualities. The short chunky type cannot make this weight. These large, early maturing types among all of our improved breeds is the result of many years of careful selection, breed- ing and feeding. " It is a well known fact that the first 100 pounds made in growing a pig costs much less than the second 100 pounds, and that the cost — or food of support — requires but about one fourth as much for the first 100 pounds as it does for the fourth 100 pounds. The risk is also much less in growing a hog that can hs put upon the market at the age of six to eight months, than in having to carry them along well over the winter to get this or a heavier weight. Better raise two crops of pigs a year from the sows and sell them at a lightweight than one crop carried onto a heavy weight " SECLECTING BROOD SOWS. This is a very important matter, and much of the success of the farmer or breeder depends on this one thing. In selecting the sows that are to be the mothers of your next year's crop of pigs, do not go out into the herd and pick out the short, fat, plump little things that look so nice. In fact if it was my own case, I would keep the sows that produced the last crop of pigs at least FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 21 all of them would be kept over, that had proven to be good mothers and reared a good litter. I would, only if necessary to add more sows to the herd, select some of the larger growthiest of the last spring sow pigs, or ' 'Gilts" as sometimes called for this purpose. When I had finally gotten together a herd of brood sows that suited me, 1 would keep them as long as they produced strong thrifty litters and raised them well. We have kept sows in our own herd at home until thirteen years of age and lots^ of them up to eight or nine years of age. It is a certain thing that mature sows pro- duce better pigs than young immature ones, and why not? There is as much difiference in sows as mothers and also as much diflfer- ence in the milking qualities as there is in a herd of dairy cows, and this counts much in growing the litter the first three months.- Right here let me urge that the pigs should not be weaned too young. They should remain with the sows for at least three months or until the sow actually weans them herself, when if given proper feed during this time in addition to that fur- nished by the mother, the youngsters will never know when they were weaned and there will be no check whatever in their growth. SELECTING THE SIRE. You have often heard that the sire is half the herd, in a herd of well bred cattle. It is not much less in a well bred herd of pure bred hogs, and is also the most important factor in the breeding herd of the general farmer. In selecting the sire, go and see him if you can, if you can not do so write to some reliable breeder of the breed you are using and describe what you want. In so doing do not describe a perfect model for such a one has not yet been bred, and if he had been the breeder would no doubt refuse to part with him at any price. Better first describe the sows you have to mate with him, whether of the short, chunky type with fine bone, or whether a large growthy type, somewhat a little on the coarse order, these latter will be the best producers, and should be mated to a sire of a little different type, not quite so long in body or coarse in makeup, but a little more compact, that the coming litters may not be too coarse and rangy, for following the extreme of either type. Should, however, your sows be of the fine bone, thick, plump chunky type, then a sire a little on the coarse order will do, but never go to the extreme either way. Pay a good reliable breeder what he asks for such a boar as you need. He will not charge you any more than he is worth, for he knows better than many of us what such a. pig will bring any day. Do not think that because you are only raising hogs for the market that ten, fifteen or even twenty dollars is as much as you should pay. for a sire, for no reputable breeder can follow the business of breeding pure bred hogs for a series of years unless he can get more money than from ten to twenty dollars each for his pigs. He better let some other fellow raise them that thinks he can afiford to do so. A good sire, such as would keep up the quality or improve it in a herd of hogs, for the general armer, is worth from thirty-five to fifty dollars to any man raising fifty pigs or more in a year. I know a cattle grower and feeder for the market that raises grade hogs who never buys a boar pig worth less than fifty dollars, and often much more. He claims there is no boar too good for him, as he expects the sire to add to the quality of every pig, and in this way, more than repay the purchase price. 22 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. CARE OF SOWS DURING BRHBDING SEASON. To the breeding sows that are to farrow the coming spring good care should be given, as on the proper feed and exercise much of the success in securing strong, vigorous litters will depend. The sows during this time should not be fed continually on corn alone, as corn produces nothing but fat or white meat. It will not grow bone or flesh as well as many other feeds, but it is entirely suitable to be used with either oats, shorts, middlings, milk or tankage and when combined with any or all of these, would be a satisfactory feed. A sow that is fed nothing but corn during this period would produce a very weakly litter of pigs that would not have vitality enough to pull through the first few days, but if fed as above described the pigs will be strong and vigorous, and ready to fight for their dinner from the first minute of their existence. Sows during the winter months should have some kind of feed to take the place of grass. For this purpose either sugar beets or mangolds are good, but quite expensive to raise in our State. We have found in Illinois that sorghum is a first class feed for this purpose, being very succulent. We plant it the same as corn only quite thick in the hill and let it stand in the fall until the seed is ripened, then cutting the crop with a corn binder and shock it like corn in large shocks, the larger the better, and haul it in during the winter, as feed. A bundle or more thrown into the lot for every six or eight hogs is greedily eaten, stalks, leaves and seeds, wasting nothing but the pith, after the juice is all taken out of it. Good, well cured second crop clover is very nice, and we use also some well cured alfalfa. At home we usually run the above rough feeds through a power cutter, making it much easier to be utilized. Fed as above and given plenty of exercise, which in very necessary, together with warm dry places to sleep will insure success to the coming litters. Keep but few sows together if possible. WARM FEED IN WINTER. "While our agriculture colleges have demonstrated that it does not add any to the value of the feed in the way of neutriment or digestibility to cook feed, I have found by an experience of nearly thirty years that it does pay and pay well, to feed young pigs or shotes warm feed during the winter months. Nothing looks more distressing to me during zero weather than a pen of recently weaned pigs trying to get some nourishment and a little com- fort at a trough of cold or frozen feed. They can not thrive as they should and after eating and getting back to their nests, it will require them a half day to get warm again. We use a steam generator and heat the water in which all feed is mixed. We do not attempt to thoroughly cook it, but to have it quite warm when put into the troughs, the pigs quickly clean it up and go back to their little houses without a shiver and apparently grow as well in winter as in summer." CAREFUL ATTENTION TO DETAILS. There are many little things connected with the successful growing of swine, besides selecting good breeding animals and being a good feeder. The latter is of course one of the greatest essentials. A man to get the best results should be a very careful observer. He should note daily every animal, see that each comes to his feed promptly and eats with a relish. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 23 Watch their condition in every respect. See that the hair or coat looks healthy and bright, see that they are free from vermin or lice, which is a source of great annoyance and often the cause of much unthriftiness. There are many ways of getting rid of lice, but the easiest way where one is pre- pared for it, is to run the entire herd through a dipping tank made for the purpose using any of the various dips or Kerosene Emulsion. Crude Petroleum is also a sure remedy but is rather expensive. To entirely rid a herd that is lousy requires about three or four dippings, not over one week apart for the reason that the nits or eggs of the louse are not killed by the dip but hatch out in a very few days which necessitates another dipping at once. See that your pigs are not coughing, if they are they probably have little worms in the throat that can be removed in several ways. Take any of the dips above mentioned, such as Moore's Hog Dip Zenoleum, etc., and use about a pint of it in the crude form to a barrel of slop. Use it once a week and you will never hear a pig cough. They will never be troubled with worms of any kind. To keep the pigs digestion in good condition we feed considerable charcoal. We shell our corn and burn the cobs in a pit made for the purpose and they will leave the best of feed to eat the charcoal. A pen of six or eight pigs will eat a bushel of charcoal at a time once a week. GOOD SANITARY MEASURES. ' 'It is said that 'An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure.' Keep all feeding floors, sleeping pens and troughs clean. Use any good dis- infectant and use it often. Air slaked lime is among the best as well as zenoleum and other similar disinfectants. These can be purchased in any quantity desired and in the crude form very much resembles a dark molasses , and should be diluted with about fifty to seventy-five parts water. It thus forms a milk white fluid which is not only a good disinfectant but a germi- cide. It is used in hospitals, asylums, stables, etc. Sprinkle it over the floors and feeding places, troughs, etc. If you are extensively engaged in breeding of swine, do not let too many hogs or pigs herd together." They will thrive better to be separated and kept in small numbers of about even size. At home we usually have from one hundred and fifty to two hundred pigs and hogs. We use a field of about twenty acres, divided in lots of about one acre each. These lots were formerly sowed to clover and timothy but have now become thickly sodded in blue grass. They are fenced with a woven wire fence thirty-six inches high. Each lot contains a little house 8x8 feet in size, doubled walled and lined with building paper, with venti- lator and everything complete for the comfort of the pigs in either warm or cold weather. Each sow has one of these lots to herself with her litter, and is kept there until the pigs are three months old and are weaned, at which time the sow is removed to a larger pasture out of sight of the pigs, and the youngsters are kept there until they are shipped out to market or to breeders. You may say all these things are too much trouble, too much work but remember we can not succeed in any line of business without work and lots of it. To my mind compared to being a slave to a herd of dairy cows, the bree'iing and caring for a large herd of well bred hogs, would be a continual 24 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. round of pleasure, although neither the path of the dairyman or the swine breeder is strewn with roses, each has his troubles. The swine breeder has occasional visits of swine plague, leaving him a much poorer and a no wiser man, yet for a series of years the feeding and breeding of swine either for market or for breeding purposes will be found a profitable busi- ness. How many cattle feeders have we that could make any money were it not for the hogs. The hogs are also a profit to the dairyman in using the by-products of his dairy. They also pay the grain farmer by condensing a portion of his crop of grain and grass into first class meat, so from what- ever side you look at it, the hog is a source of profit. The more time you devote to him, and the better you care for him, the better he will pay you. You must get the idea out of your head that anything is good enough for a hog. Better have the idea in your head that nothing is too good for him. The President: The paper is open for discussion. Mr. Ames : I would like to ask Mr. Lovejoy how much he will have to sell his hogs for in the market, when he has to feed sixty -cent corn? Mr. Lovejoy: I shouldn't feed altogether sixty- cent corn; I would mix it with clover and grass. A pig that will weigh 225 pounds will make one-half of its growth from its mother alone. You can feed one -half clover and corn. But half the growth of the pig marketed today is pretty nearly obtained from her mother. Mr. Ames : Half of a 225 pounds of a pig at eight months' time that is a little strong. I do not believe there are very many market raisers of hogs that will do that. Then it costs some- thing to raise the mother. I would like to have that put in dollars and cents. I do not believe it is paying us today to raise hogs at four cents a pound. Mr. Lovejoy: You are not raising them for that today. You speak about the sow and the pigs. Take a sow with eight pigs and give her a little slop and these pigs will weigh 100 pounds the day they are three months old. It does not cost to exceed three or four dollars to feed that sow. I don't care if you feed her sixty- cent corn, or shorts or tankage, or anything else, when they are ninety days old they are ready to wean. This same feed continued right along, will make them a pound a day. Mr. Ames : The point I was trying to get at was that the average man in the State of Iowa who raises hogs for the market has got to grow these hogs a certain time of the year. These pigs will be dropped the latter part of April or month of May. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 25 The average man is going to get his pigs on the market all at the same time. Mr. Lovejoy : Why do you all want to raise your pigs the same months? Why don't you raise two litters a year? That is the very thing that "busts" the prices. A Member : I would like to ask whether slacked soft coal is just as good as charcoal? Mr. Lovejoy: Slacked coal has nothing in it but sulphur. A Member : In regard to feeding slops and shorts, in what way do you regulate the amount the pig is to eat, — we will say, after you have it weaned — how are you going to regulate it? Mr. Lovejoy : We try to make as near a balanced ration as we can. We feed about 40 per cent of corn meal, about 50 per cent of middlings, and we mix it very thick. A Member : Do you let the pigs eat all they want? Mr. Lovejoy: Certainly; we always feed them all they eat up clean. A Member: Don't they get pretty fat on that? Mr. Lovejoy: Yes, they do. A Member: I would like to ask Mr. Lovejoy the best time to have two litters. Mr. Lovejoy: We do not raise them from all our sows. If we raise two litters, we raise them early in March and about the last to the middle of October. Those that come the latter part of April or May, we do not attempt to raise two litters from. Mr. McMillan: I just want to emphasize the importance of grass, not only for pigs but for all kinds of young stock. We raise a good many hogs on our farm. -These pigs can be raised to 100 pounds with but very little corn and feed, by having good pasture, either clover or timothy, or blue grass, and feeding the sows with shorts and tankage. By having this kind of feed, you not only grow them cheaply, but you have another advan- tage ; the pigs have the range ; exercise is good for them ; it is good for the lungs, and this green feed tends to expand and enlarge the digestive organs until you begin to feed them corn and other feed ; their capacity will be greater. I believe that even at four pents a pound, in that way, you will make as much profit on hogs as anything else on earth. This suggestion, as I say, is not only good as to pigs, but I find in raising colts, that if you can have grass that is not pas- 26 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. tured down too close in the fall, you can let the colts run out during the winter, with simply an open shed to run under, and they go through the winter with very little grain feed. We raise our colts in that way on the farm. We have a bunch of colts now, yearling stallions that are still on blue grass pasture, and in that way we raise them until practically fit for the market- We have yearling colts in the pasture now that never had a halter on, that will weigh from fourteen hundred to fifteen hun- dred pounds. Mr. Ames : I would like to ask Mr. Lovejoy to be a little more definite in regard to his feed that he feeds a sow. He says^ a sow can produce a pig until it weighs one hundred pounds, three months old, with very little feed. We do not understand that. Does the sow starve while she is raising them? Mr. Lovejoy : I said very little feed to the pigs. Mr. Mills : We would like to know what that amounts to? Mr. Lovejoy: We estimate that our herd of brood sows cost us twelve dollars a year. A Member: You have them on good pasture? Mr. Lovejoy: Certainly. I do not call four dollars a very expensive feed for a sow with eight or nine pigs. A Member: I would like to ask Mr. Lovejoy where he gets his pay for the rest of that twelve dollars; he charges four dol- lars for the litter of pigs? Mr. Lovejoy : I get it when I sell the pigs. A Member: Don't, you have to charge them with twelve dollars? Mr. Lovejoy: No, sir; I charge the entire herd up with the entire amount of feed for the year, care and everything else, and credit it with the sales. There is no litter of pigs but what will bring a good many times twelve dollars. The President: Before we adjourn I will call- attention to the afternoon program. Mr. F. A. Delano and Mr. H. C. Nutt will talk on "Transportation — Its relation to the Iowa Farmer;'* Prof. P. G. Holden, on "How to Increase the Average Yield of Corn Five Bushels per Acre."' Tomorrow morning L. H. Kerrick of Bloomington, Illinois, will address you on "Cattle Feeding;" and George H. Wells, on "Commercial Corn Grad- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 27 ing." The corn exhibit you will find in the basement of the Capitol, and the fruit exhibit in the rotunda. We will now stand adjourned until 1:30 o'clock. 1:30 o'clock p. m. The President : The first on our program this afternoon will be "Transportation — Its Relation to the Iowa Farmer," by Mr. F. A. Delano, General Manager, C, B. & Q. Ry. Before reading his paper, Mr. Delano said: I feel very deeply the honor you pay me by inviting me to address you. Although I might have said a few words extraneously, I thought I had better put my remarks in writing and try to stick to the notes; at the same time I would like very much if you would interrupt me and ask any questions you may desire. TRANSPORTATION— ITS RELATION TO THE IOWA FARM. F. A. DELANO, GENERAL MANAGER C, B. & O. RY . A/r. President^ and Gentlemen— Yon have asked me to address you on the subject of Transportation in Its Relation to the Iowa Farmer. Transportation, in the broadest sense, enters into all trade, all com- merce, and most intimately into our daily lives. Trade can not exist with- out it, for all commercial transactions require that there shall be facilities for interchange, so that produce and articles of manufacture not needed in one district may be transported to another district where they are needed. In the time of the Roman Empire it was so fully understood that civilization required good means of transportation that the empire builders of that time spent money on roads (wagon roads), which are famous even to this day. The Roman Empire became supreme largely on account of its fine wagon roads and its transportation facilities by water. Railway transportation, about which you expect me to address you, is one of the most recent forms of transportation. It has been in existence in this country only seventy-seven years, so that it is within the memory of many now living that the vast network of railway transportation has been developed. It is not to be wondered at that an i idustry, which, although it has developed so wonderfully, is yet far from perfect. Cer- tainly no railway manager would appear before you today and pretend that railway transportation in this country or in any other country, was perfect; nor that as railway managers we did not have a great deal to learn, but we may fairly ask you to judge us by what has been done and what we are honestly seeking to do, giving due consideration to the difficulties in the way. An interesting feature about railway transportation is that in no other way could a vast continent far av\ay from the sea, and much of it from any waterway, have been developed and peopled. In no other way could great inland cities have grown up. Suppose, for example, the city of Chicago 28 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. with its two million inhabitants, had to depend on what could be transported by wagon for its supplies; its radius of supply would be at the most not to exceed fifty to one hundred miles. Obviously enough, there would not have been enough food, enough fuel or enough of many other things to supply such a population. As it is, Chicago receives its grain from a radius of fully two thousand miles; its meat supply from an even larger radius, its fruit supply from Florida and Cuba in one direction. Southern California in another, Oregon and Washington in another; and so I might continue. Transportation facilities have always tended to level down prices, and make them less liable to fluctuation; thus, we can not have in this country the terrible famines which have existed in Russia, and some of the countries of Asia, because the shortage in one section of the country would be quickly made'good by the abundance elsewhere, nor does any community depend on its supplies from immediately adjoining territory. If a combination through its ownership, we will say, of coal mines in a certain district should under- take to force up prices of coal from that district, the coal from other districts and other kinds of fuel, such as fuel oil, would soon come in to level down the excessive charge. In fact political economists have frequently remarked that although as a Nation we stand for protection , we represent in fact the greatest free trade experiment that was ever known; forty-five sovereign states and many territories compete in each others markets to an almost unlimited extent. It is a friendly competition, it is true, and we have become so accustomed to it that we hardly realize it, but no one locality can so far take advantage of its geographical position that it can put the "screws" on any other locality. In Europe, particularly in Germany, the effort in the way of transportation has been entirely in the direction of building up a great internal system of water ways. Railways are used there to carry the product of the mine, forest and farm, to the nearest point on the seaboard, or to some large river or canal, thence these products are carri-d by slow going canals, either to the city where they are used or reloaded on cars at some other point and brought inland. A student of the transportation facilities in Germany is struck with the fact that this method, developed under Government auspicies, has tended to build up large cities with water facilities, while the inland country has suffered. What would have been the fate or the great State of Iowa if that policy had been advocated in the United States. And yet, even to this day, Government effort, both National and State, has been in the direction of developing waterways, and for some unaccountable reason, the public ignores the fact that even the great waterways that nature gave us, are used to a very limited extent. The name of Mr. Lincoln, our Martyr President, is interestingly connected with the development of Railway Transportation, and the building of the first railroad bridge across the iMississippi river, at Rock Island in 1856. The steamboat interests and the citizens of St. Louis and other Miss- issippi river points, protested most emphatically against the construction of the bridge, and a bill was filed by citizens of St. Louis, in 1858, to have the bridge, which had just been built, removed. On April 3, 1860, the United States District Court for the District of Iowa, decided that the bridge was a material obstruction and a nuisance, and ordered it removed. An appeal was taken to the Supreme Court of the United States, and Mr. Lincoln ap- peared as counsel for the Bridge Company. In his argument Mr. Lincoln FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 29 admitted that the bridge was an obstruction, but claimed that it was 7iot an ?/-'/;va5^ cents then and they are 23 >^ cents now; 23 >^ cents half way across the State of Iowa, and yet you have reduced the rates to the other fellow. We agree with you all upon your general line of policy, except possibly the watered stock. I have been in the habit for some years of attending the meetings of the Executive Council, and it is astonishing how cheap railroads can be built. It is astonish- ing how much railroads cost at one time and how cheap they can be built at another. I head a man claim the Minneapolis & St. Louis road was worth S15,000 per mile; the next time he came around he said it could be built for S4,000. Take, for instance, here we have the Rock Island stocked at fifteen millions; pres- ently it goes up to seventy-five millions, and over night, to two hundred and twenty -two millions. Take the case of the Q. I think the Q probably has as little watered stock in it as almost any other road. But a strange manipulation was made, doing away with stock altogether, giving two dollars worth of bonds for a dollars worth of stock, thus following out a policy peculiar to finance, and getting just as much capitalization in the shape of a bond and as little as possible in the shape of stock, where the men are taking the risks. These are the questions that affect Iowa. We understand the value of railroads; we understand the necessity of co-operation; we appreciate the idea of an Industrial Agent. Let me say to Mr. Delano, if he will send his industrial agent to Glenwood, he will probably hear some stories there, and he will probably find out how to develop the apple industry there so as to get more freight for the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy. Mr. Delano : I do not know whether you want me to take up the time of the convention. The gentleman has made several queries, and it will take longer really than I would like to take to answer. 38 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. In the first place, in regard to the rates on meat. I do not think we are getting enough, and we are not getting as much as we would like to have. The point on that is, the Great Western made an open rate; it wasn't any secret rate; made an open rate and a contract for a number of years at 18}^ cents. It was a question whether we would take any business at all or meet that rate. Now, we are all of us human. If you can not make as good a margin on the sale of something you are producing as you think you ought to have, if you can make anything at all, you will say, well, that is better than nothing; I can not afford to keep this stock over for another season, or something like that. That was the position the railroads were in. The rail- road that brought that condition of affairs about is the railroad that is not paying any dividends whatever; it is not paying any interest whatever on a good many of its securities. It is the railroad that cuts the rates and makes competition. That is just what they did for us exactly. Mr. Wallace: Isn't it a fact that that deal Mr. Sickney made you follow up actually gave you about 15 per cent more than you were getting beforehand? Mr. Delano : No, sir; it cut our rate five cents. The gentle- man stated that a load of a refrigerator was- about eighteen thousand pounds. The average weight in a refrigerator car of meat is about twenty-two thousand to twenty-four thousand pounds, and the packing house product about forty thousand. So that our average on meat is a good deal better than on cattle and hogs. I appeal to you to the testimony given by Mr. Stickney, who has been in the railroad business longer than I have, and who in his opinion, argues there is a good deal more money in trans- portation of meat in private refrigerator cars than in the transpor- tation of stock, and that I don't agree with him does not prove that he is not right and that I am. He gives his reasons in full: he gave them for the Interstate Commerce Commission ; they are all printed where you can see them. There is one feature of the meat business which makes it cheaper in some respects to handle than the stock business. The Burlington is a big stock road, and we are glad to get all of it we can. But the meat business all originates from one or two points, so that when trains start out from Kansas City or Omaha and goes through to Chicago it is a solid train. On that FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I 39 class of business we can afford to work closer than we can on business we have to -go and gather up from station to station, and which goes to all sorts of different gateways. We are shipping stock now on our road, to seven different markets; whereas, the meat goes practically all to Chicago, or eastern lines via Chicago. . On the subject of stock watering, that I dwelt on in my paper, and the gentleman spoke of — supposing the old Rock Island road was sold to a syndicate and that they issue a lot of paper certificates for it, and those new issues are not earning any money ; they are still dependent on the old Rock Island road for what it can earn, and I don't see that anybody gets hurt by that deal, except the fellow unfortunate enough to dabble in the stock market; and by the same process the original holders of the Burlington stock had a proposition of that kind put up to them. It was not my fault they accepted it. They were told they could exchange stock which would pay 5, 6 or 8 per cent dividend; for every one dollar of stock they could get two dollars in a thing called a bond. Now, what was that bond? It was not a mortgage bond ; it was simply what they call in finance a collateral trust bond. That meant, if the Chicago^ Burlington & Quincy paid 8 per cent on its stock, that bond paid 4 per cent. If the Q didn't pay 8 per cent on its stock, the deficiency would be made good by the guarantors of that bond, which were the Northern Pacific and the Great Northern roads. I appeal to you in frankness, that is not stock watering at all. If you were holders of stock you simply had an option of giving it up or holding it. Ninety- seven per cent gave it up and exchanged it for this collateral trust note or bond. Every cent the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy is earning goes back, and if we only earn 7 per cent, we only pay 7 per cent. So far as the stock is concerned, it is precisely the same, only the people who owned it changed the form of their certificates. A Member : Does it cost more to start an engine from the Missouri River and pick up and get a full load, or to start out at the Missouri River and haul a full load? Mr. Delano: Not much; the train crew might be a good deal longer on the road than the train starting with a solid load at Omaha. The cost of the stock business where we are gather- ing it up from branches, is a great deal more expensive; we 40 IOWA DEPVRTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. gather it up from everywhere ; we drain the country as does a stream. A Member: May I ask you another question? Why is it that Iowa feeders can not get as favorable feeding rates as others can in other states. Mr. Delano: I can not tell you. I didn't know that was a fact, if it is a fact. A Member: I will give you an illustration. We have a farm in Nebraska and one in Iowa. Last fall we were figuring on buying a bunch of calves at Wray, Colorado, taking some of it through to Iowa. We found we could get a through Chicago rate at seven cents, but in Iowa we paid the local rate on top of it, which made a difference of fifteen cents to the Iowa feeder. That is the point we would like to get at. Mr. Delano: I wish I knew; I wish [could tell; I don't happen to know about that. I don't know that the gentleman has ever asked for it; if he didn't get it I know he would get a very good reason for it. We do not knowingly do something for the State of Nebraska that we do not do for the State of Iowa. Mr. Van Houten : I believe it is usually conceded by every- body that railroad rates should be remunerative. It looks to me like all matters ought to be taken up in forming a basis of com- putation ; not only that, but the question of absolute equ£|,lity between places and individuals. Let me give you an illustra- tion. I bought a valuable animal; he was to be shipped from one railroad to another at Des Moines. When the animal ar- rived at Des Moines I received a telegran from the Q agent that a first class fare should be purchased before the animal would be transferred. I immediately telegraphed to Des Moines to have the animal shipped over the Great Western to Knowlton, to get the animal and bring it home. But not being able to hear whether it had been delivered, I got on the train and came to Des Moines. When I got here I found that the animal had been sent on, and of course, was delivered and taken home. I entered a complaint with the agent, but no attention whatever was paid to it. I entered a complaint with the Railroad Commissioners of Iowa; after about eight months they informed me the rail- roads had agreed not to do that any more. I see advertised in the city of Des Moines; I see it in Creston, Council Bluffs and elsewhere, that on the third and first Tues- days there would be one rate plus two dollars to go to certain FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 41 points. Now, that rate is either remunerative or it is not. If I want to start out on Monday or Wednesday, the man who starts out on Tuesday pays a lower rate or 1 pay too much. These things pubhshed in the papers over the signature of the agent must be true. These things are remunerative or are not re- munerative. A Member: I appreciate what Mr. Delano says about the criticism that comes from that. I would like to relate an experi- ence that seemed quite ridiculous to me. I recently moved to Minnesota, and assumed with the newspaper I am working with a sort of a position similar to this Industrial Agent. I am aware that the conditions of live stock are very much better in Iowa and Nebraska than in Minnesota and Wisconsin. I was endeav- oring to bring an excursion party to visit certain farms in Iowa and Nebraska; also a beet sugar factory at Norfolk. I thought I would be able to get up an excursion party. I went to one of the railroad managers and asked him what he could do for us. He says, how many will there be in your party. I said I thought I would be able to get about twenty -five — had several letters from parties stating they would go providing the expenses would not exceed $20. I said to the general manager, I think you can afford this, because our party will certainly buy some cattle. Well, he says, we can not do it. We can not give you anything more than a local rate from point to point. He says, if you were a Sunday school party, or a picnic party, or football squad we could give you excursion rates, but cattlemen, we can not do it. We went to another road and we got a fare and a third, but they said it was purely arbitrary. This seemed quite strange to me; I was quite in the dark ; it wasn't any comparison with a powerful trust, but rather in competition with Sunday school parties. Mr. Ames: I do not want to occupy too much time, at the same time I want to bring out as many points as possible. The question of percents has been touched upon in the paying of dividends. I want to make a statement; does anyone know what amount per cent the average Iowa farm is paying on the investment? What do you suppose farming is paying, less operating expenses, the net profits? Do you suppose they pay eight per cent? Do you suppose they pay seven, six, five or three per cent? The majority of them stop between three and five. Many of them are paying more, but they are equipped by large combinations and handled under the head of sy.:dicate affairs. 42 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. If Mr. Delano will just recall our nice little talk and visit in Chicago not long ago, he will remember the committee there went over the grounds of delayed transportation, and it seems to me that is one of the vital points to be made at this meeting and one of the things these general managers of the different roads can take up. Not many years ago the time limit for the transportation of live stock from points, central and western Iowa, were from three to six hours shorter than at the present time. I think Mr. Delano will remember we showed conclusively that that was a detriment to the average shipper of Iowa of not less than three dollars an hour for that delay. Today you ride on a stock train over Iowa, and the train will occupy ten hours across the state ; the train men complaining because they are not allowed to make the run, often times waiting at stations. Now, if Mr. Delano and the other managers of roads will take that up separately, and is there any reason why it can not be done or has not been done, Mr. Delano. A Member: I was twenty -four hours riding across the state of Iowa- Saturday, from 7 o'clock Saturday night, starting from Sac county, and arriving at Clinton at 7 o'clock Sunday night, and getting to Chicago at 2 o'clock. Before the Chicago & North- Western had a double track, they would make eighteen or twenty miles an hour. Now they call on us to load at 7 o'clock in the evening, and sometimes at four, and give us a thirty- six hour run, making a shrinkage on every head of fifty pounds; we are giving from fifty to sixty pounds of beef in these long runs ; the statistics show that we are losing that. They said they were surprised; they didn't know it was quite so bad. Mr. Delano : Gentlemen, I wish some of you had to manage a railroad. The fact of the matter is, if you ever managed a railroad so that you could keep all passenger and freight trains on time and make the time satisfactory to all your patrons, you could congratulate yourselves. I can assure you, Mr. Ames, of this, that there is no cause of delayed movement that is not investigated, and we think we are making improvement in that direction all the time. Mr. Nuttwent into considerable detail in this matter, and I thought was quite convincing. It is true, Mr. Wallace referred to the fact that the rate on hogs has not been reduced over a cer- tain territory for a number of years. As I say, there is a very small margin in handling live stock. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 43 Another party asks why it is that we make lower rates for parties or people going on certain days of the week, or for home seekers' excursions. Can it be that I will have to explain that we can afford to do on a wholesale basis something we can not afford on a retail basis? Can it be that in the cities and towns you live in, that you have not noticed that during holi- days and other times you have noticed the sales marked down? That is what these low rate excursions are — in order to attract people who will not otherwise go. If you can get up a particular hurrah boys excursion, then they will go. It is not that the rate of one fare plus two dollars is remunerative. If we can get enough people to go on certain trains it is remunerative. We have to draw the line somewhere, and the ordinary line at which we draw it is at 100; we just thought 100 was about a fair number; that is the way a great many managers figure. This particular man, the gentleman referred to, he gave a rate of one and one-third for twenty-five. Mr. Wallace: In answer to Mr. Delano's remarks in regard to special sales, I would say, these excursions they are getting up at one fare plus two dollars, are not special sales. It is gen- erally something that is about to go out of season; it is some- thing that is about to go out of date. It is something that is on the shelf we want to get rid of and convert into money ; that is absolutely at a discount; they are in a hurry to run off. It is not so on these Tuesday excursions. There is another thing I wanted to call attention to. You know, every man in this audience, that throughout the breadth of Iowa, at every station, we have from one to three elevators. These elevators in many instances are owned by what is called Line Companies, and in a great many instances the people managing these elevators have become non graciatothe people. The people organize themselves together and form a farmers' elevator company; they wish to build an elevator there to han- dle the grain, so that they can do their own business, and why is it, that in every instance where the farmers want to build an elevator at one of these stations in Iowa, it universally has to be carried to the Railroad Commissioners in order to get a site? I would like to have that explained. The President: I will say in answer to the gentleman, that he can get all the elevators he wants if he will move down on the Burlington route. 44 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Mr. Wallace: I believe that Mr. Delano is right when he states the load of a refrigerator car to be from 22,000 to 24,000. I notice that in the hearing before the Interstate Commerce Commission it was given as 29,000. The President : Professor P. G. Holden of the Iowa State College at Ames will now address you on the subject of "How to Increase the Average Yield of Corn Five Bushels per Acre." The Professor gave a valuable illustrated talk on the above subject, after which the meeting adjourned. His address and the discussions which followed, were not taken by the reporter, owing to the frequent reference to charts. In lieu of this we publish on the following pages bulletin No. 77, from the Iowa Agriculture College experiment station, on "Selecting and pre- paring of Seed Corn," which is edited by Professor Holden and contains the greater part of the information brought out in his address : Professor P. G. Holden. BULLETIN 77. MARCH, 1905, EXPERIMENT STATION IOWA STATE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND MECHANIC ARTS AMES. IOWA. SELECTING AND PREPARING SEED CORN. DEPARTMENT OF AGRONOMY. BY P. G. HOLDEN. The condition of seed corn throughout Iowa this year is such as to cause the gravest apprehension. Personal examinations of corn in every section of the State have been made and the Station is now making extensive tests of samples sent in for germination. There seems to be a general impression that, since the corn apparently dried out well last fall, there will be no danger of having poor seed. The fact is that there has seldom been so large a percentage of the corn which was killed. Frequently one ear will be good and the very next one poor: one side of the ear may be alive and the other one dead and, of two neigh- boring kernals on the same ear, one will grow and the other will not. This peculiar condition is probably due principally to three causes. First, the season was slow and the corn did not mature properly and, as a con- sequence, there was an unusually large amount of moisture left in the corn. The shrinkage experiments, which have been carried on by the Station, show that the corn contained an average of about thirty-six per cent of water at the beginning of the cribbing season. Second, the dry weather during Oc- tober dried the corn oflf and it appeared to be dry when in reality it was not. Many were so confident that the corn was dry and would keep, that no pains were taken to store it in a dry place. Third, the unusually cold weather during the latter part of November and first of December either killed the germ or weakened it greatly, except where the seed was protected or where unusual pains had been taken to dry it out thoroughly. Seed corn that was stored in a dry place, such as the attic, before the 20th of October, is in good condition except in some cases where the corn moulded'or grew, or both, from the lack of ventilation. (45) 46 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. When we consider that more than nine million acres, considerably over one-fourth of the entire erea of the State, is planted to corn each season and that it requires more than 1,300,000 bushels of seed to plant this area and, when we realize that the character of the seed, its vitality, breeding, purity, adaptability to the soil and climate and uniformity in both size and shape of the kernels, all exercise a great influence on the future yield, the great im- portance of paying the closest attention to the corn for seed purposes can not be over estimated. CONDITION OF SEED CORN. Up to the present time, March 6, over 2,000 samples of seed corn have been received by the Experiment Station from farmers in different portions of the State. These are all being put through a careful germination test and over seventeen hundred have now been tested. This large number of tests show that an average of nineteen per cent is entirely dead and that an additional twenty-one per cent is low in vitality and unfit to plant, leaving only sixty per cent of good seed. It is also apparent that many of the ker- nels which give a fair germination are weakened and, in the event of a cold spring, would either refuse to grow or give weak plants. The following is a page taken from the records of germination of samples received for testing. It is an average of all the samples and shows the wide variation between samples from diflEerent persons. Sample No. 783 is entirely worthless for planting, while all of Nos. 791-792 gave a strong vigorous germination. The headings of the tables have the following meanings: Strong— The kernels gave a strong, vigorous germination and appeared as if they would make strong productive stalks. Weak — The kernels germinated but were not vigorous and, if the season were unfavorable, they might not grow at all; but, if they did, the stalks would be weak, perhaps produce only nubbins. Worthless— Did not germinate. (For an illustration of these three classes see Figure 4 ) Samp e No. Strong. Weak. Worthless. 781 92 8 782 8 40 52 783 20 80 784 56 28 16 785 80 16 4 786 80 8 12 787 72 12 16 788 52 40 8 789 52 28 20 790 52 32 16 791 92 8 792 100 793 24 16 60 794 64 24 12 795 60 24 16 796 68 16 16 797 fiO 36 4 798 28 40 32 799 64 20 16 800 60 20 20 Arerage 58.2 21.8 20 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 47 POOR STAND OF CORN. A ' 'poor stand" of corn is responsible more than anything else, for the low average yield in the central west. The ground may be rich, the prepa- ration good and the corn receive the best of cultivation, but if the stand is poor, the yield will be correspondingly poor. Careful counts of the number of stalks per hill were made last year in more than a thousand dififerent corn fields and it would be safe to say that there were not to exceed sixty-six per cent of a perfect stand on an average and in some cases it fell as low as forty per cent. This means that the State devoted nearly 9,000,000 acres to corn and produced only a 6,C00,000-acre crop, or to put it another way, with a perfect stand the present average yield of thirty-two bushels would be increased to fifty bushels per acre or an increase to the State of 153,000,000 bushels. This does not take into consideration the increased yield made possible through the use of improved varieties, better bred seed, elimination of barren stalks by means of breed- ing, better methods of cultivation, etc. The real seriousness of the situation will be more apparent from the fol- lowing counts illustrating the stand in the poorer, medium and better fields of Iowa. The following figures illustrate the number of stalks per hill in the poorer fields: 222032013011131 1023012100213. Each of the first three hills had two stalks, the fourth hill was missing and the next had three stalks, etc. That the results might be as accurate aspossible, counts similar to the above were made in three places in each field. The hills were taken just as they came in the row and generally crosswise of the way the corn was planted. The field above represents only fifty-two percent of a stand of corn. Twenty-five per cent of the hills were missing. Thirty-five per cent had one stalk. Twenty-five per cent had two stalks and twenty per cent had three stalks per hill. If the poor stand was largely due to seed of low vitality, which is generally true in case of very poor stands, then the same influence which killed a portion of the seed must also have greatly weakened that which did grow and, as a consequence, the yield is even much less han what is represented by the stand. The above represents what is found in hundreds of cornfields every- where in Iowa. Many fields were found in which the stand was as low as forty per cent. The following will illustrate very closely the average stand in the State: 2312101133131222303120212. On the average soil of the State this would represent about sixty-five per cent of a stand of corn. Twelve per cent of the hills were missing, twenty-eight per cent of the hills had one stalk, thirty-two per cent of the hills had two stalks, and twenty-eight per cent of the hills had three stalks. The following repre- sents the stand in some of the very best fields in the state: 343213333 23333233333333 3. In this field, there was no hills missing, four hills had one stalk, twelve had two stalks, seventy-six had three stalks, and eight hills had four stalks. This represents not less than ninety-five to ninety-six per cent of a per- fect stand. If we go into our fields at husking time and make a study of the stand of corn, we will be convinced of the serious losses to ourselves and to the State each year from a poor stand of corn. 48 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. VARIETY TEST OF CORN. Last spr ng, the Agricultural Department secured seed from more than ninety different sources. The corn was all collected from farmers living within a radius of ten miles from Ames. In order to secure samples of corn actually planted, the farmers were visited and the corn taken either directly from the planter boxes in the field or from the sacks from which the seed corn was being planted. The samples were planted by hand, three kernels per hill, and the experi- ment was repeated three times and treated alike in every respect, throughout the season. The following table gives the yield per acre of the six highest yielding samples and also of the six lowest yielding samples: Six Highest Yielding Samples. Bushel Per Acre. SampleNo. 59 80.5 Sample No. 58 80.0 SampleNo. 66 78.5 SampleNo. 71 77.0 Sample No. 138 75.0 SampleNo. 68 75.0 Average 77. 5 Six Lowest Yielding Samples. Bushel Per Acre. SampleNo. 44 31.5 SampleNo. 132 33.5 SampleNo. 36 34.5 SampleNo. 32 36.6 SampleNo. 29 37.5 SampleNo. 33 40.0 Average 35. 6 Note particularly the wide range in yield from 80.5 bushels per acre to 31.5 bushels, or a difference of 49 bushels. The average yield of the six highest samples was 77.5 bushels, while the average of the six lowest yield- ing samples was 35.6 bushels, or a difference of 41.9 bushels per acre. This great difference in yield was due largely to the difference in vitality of the seed, a? in every case the low yielding samples had given a poor stand . It strongly emphasizes the great importance of knowing that the seed to be planted will give a good, strong, vigorous germination. TESTING EACH EAR OF CORN. There is, perhaps, no one thing which will do so much to increase the yield of corn on every farm as the testing of each ear to be used for seed. This should be done before the rush of spring work begins or it is apt to be neglected. The importance of discarding ears that refuse to grow or show a weak germination is apparent when we realize that one ear will plant one-four- teenth to one-sixteenth of an acre. The most practical way for testing the germination of each ear is by using a germination box. This is a simple affair and can be made by any- one in an hour's time. Any box about six inches deep and 2x3 feet in size FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART 49^ may be used. Fill the box about half full of moist sand, dirt, or sawdust, well pressed down, so that it will leave a smooth, even surface. In case saw dust is used it should be put in a gunny sack and set in a tub of warm water for half an hour so that it will be thoroughly moistened before using. Take a white cloth about the size of the box, rule it ofif, checker-board fashion, one and a half inches each way. Number the checks 1, 2, 3, and so on and place it over the sawdust and tack to the box at the corners and edges. Lay out the ears to be tested, side by side on the floor; remove one kernel from near the butt, middle and tip of the ear; turn the ear over and remove three kernels from the opposite side, in like manner, making six kernels in all, thus securing a sample from the entire ear. Place the six kernels at the end of the ear from which they were taken. Use care that the kernels do not get mixed with the kernels from the ear next to it. After the kernels are removed, boards may be laid over the rows of corn to keep them in place until the germination is known. (See Figure 1.) Place the kernels from ear of corn No. 1 in square No. 1 of the germination box; from ear No. 2 in square No. 2, and so on with all of the ears. Then place over this a cloth considerably larger than the box; cover with about two inches of moist sand, dirt or sawdust and keep it in a warm place where it will not freeze. The sitting-room will perhaps be the most suitable place. The kernels will germinate in four to six days. Then remove the cover carefully to avoid misplacing the kernels in the squares (a piece of thin cloth placed over the kernels before the covering is put on, will prevent the kernels from Fig. 1. GtERRMIN'ATION Box. 50 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. sticking to the upper cover). Examine the kernels in the germinating box; for example, the kernels in squares Nos. 1, 11 and 20 (see Figure 1) have failed to grow and some of the kernels in squares 2, 3, 4, 9, 12, and 15, have refused to grow or show weak germination. The corresponding ears should be rejected. The ears showing weak germination should be treated the same as worthless ears. Fig. 2. Taking Six Kernels From Each Ear i ■ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^HH^£^ ^K".^/Ti li|y^ Fig. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 51 Figure 2, the kernels are placed on the floor opposite the ear from which they were taken. Before removing the kernels from the ears, it is a good plan to drive two nails at each end of the rows of corn to hold the ears in place. Figure 3, putting the kernels in the germination box; placing those from ear No. ; in block No. 1; from ear No. 2 in block No. 2, etc. The germination box was filled about half full of thoroughly moistened sawdust. A cloth ruled off into blocks or squares was then placed on the sawdust and fastened at the corners and edges by tacks to hold it in place. To prevent the ears from being disturbed while the test is being made, it it is a good plan to place a heavy board or plank over each of the rows of ears . RECORD OF INDIVIDUAL EARS. Maximum yields can be obtained only by using the best seeds of the best varieties. These seeds can be secured only by careful selection and breed- ing. Last spring the most perfect kernels from 102 of our best ears of corn were planted in rows side by side, each row being planted with kernels from a single ear. At husking time each row was harvested by itself and the record of yield, barren stalks, broken stalks, suckers, etc. , of each individ- ual ear was thus secured. The following table shows the wide variation in the results obtained from the different ears: RECORD OF INDIVIDUAL BARS: Ear No. Bu. per A. Bashels 75 \ Yielded 90. 56 bushels per acre 90. 56 per \ Acre 93 ( Yielded 36.06 bushels per acre 36.06 Percent 77 ( Gave 96. 5 per cent of a stand 83.03 of ] Stand 78 ( Gave 43 per cent of a stand 36.27 Number 54 ( Gave 258 broken stalks or 64 per cent , 67. 52 Broken ^ Stalks 85 ( Gave 41 broken stalks or 8 per cent 76.57 Number 19 ^ Gave 79 barren stalks or 21.5 per cent 50.50 Barren < Stalks 83 ( Gave 6 barren stalks or 1. 5 per cent 75 85 Number 37 ( Gave 106 suckers or 21 per cent 77.93 of ] Suckers 75 ( Gave suckers 90.56 This record illustrates very clearly the great difference in the producing powers of different ears. Some ears produce more than six times as many broken stalks as others. Other ears seemed to be predisposed to barenness. For example, ear No. 19 gave 79 barren stalks while ear No. 83 gave only 6. The variation in the number of suckers was still more striking, ear No. 37 giving 106 suckers while ear 75 was entirely free. Ears 47 and 83 (47 is not given in this table) are also very inter- esting by way of comparison. The rows planted from these two ears had practically the same number of stalks. Ear 47 produced 55 bushels per acre. It had 67 barren stalks, 244 broken stalks and 62 suckers. Ear 83 yielded 76 bushels, had only 6 barren stalks, 130 broken stalks and 5 suckers. 52 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The figures illustrate clearly the wide range in two ears, not only in produc- ing power, but also in their tendencies to reproduce inherited qualities. The following diagram shows the yield in bushels per acre of the ten highest yielding rows in our breeding plats. The five lowest yielding rows and the average of the entire one hundred and two breeding rows are also shown: RECORD OF INDIVIDUAL EARS. Rows 75 Yielded 90. oS bushels per acre. 72 Yielded 87. 49 bushels per acre. 84 Yielded 87. 20 bushels per acre. 92 Yielded 84. 11 bushels per acre. 77 Yielded 83. 03 bushels per acre. 25 Yielded 82.43 bushels per acre. 70 Yielded 81.14 bushels per acre. 64 Yielded 80.66 bushels per acre. 21 Yielded 80.36 bustiels per acre. 96 • Yielded 80.23 bushels per acre. FIVE LOWEST YIELDING VARIETIES. 93 Yielded 36.06 bushels per acre. 73 Yielded 36. 27 bushels per acre. 86 Yielded 42.31 bushels per acre. 74 Yielded 42.38 bushels per acre. 80 Yielded 43.24 bushels per acre. The average of the ten highest yielding rows was 83.71 bushels per acre; the average of the five poorest yielding rows was 40.05 bushels per acre. The 102 rows grown yielded on an average 67.09 bushels. BREEDING PLATS. While it is not advisable to grow a large acerage of any new or untried variety, the farmer should find out what varitety is best suited to his condi- tions. This can be learned only by growing small plats of the most prom- ising varieties. When the most suitable variety has been secured pure seed should be obtained and the best ears planted on one side of the field. It is preferable to have this breeding plat on the south or west side of the field, that the prevailing winds may not carry pollen from the rest of the field on to the breeding plat. If corn of another variety should be within a quarter of a mile of the breeding plat, the varieties are liable to become mixed. In such a case the breeding plat should be located as far from the other vai-ieties as possible, or if no other protected place is to be had, the selected ears may be planted in the central part of the field. When very little seed corn can be had it may be planted in a block in one corner of the field, for if planted in long narrow strips the pollenation is sure to be poor. This method of planting the choicest ears on one side of the field is an easy and practical way of securing good corn for the following year. It should be planted early enough to insure its ripening. The weak and bar- ren stocks could easily be detasseled so that only the most vigorous pollen would fertilize the silks. Even if the land received no special cultivation and if the crop received no extra care the grower would know where to secure his best seed ears and would be more likely to harvest them at the proper FIFTH ANNUAL SEAR BOOK — PART I. 53 time than he would if he was depending on the occasional good ears ob- tained during the husking of his entire crop. CORN PLANTER TESTS. The samples of corn used in these experiments were butted and tipped Iowa Silver Mine, butted and tipped Boone County White and hand selected Mixed White. Five hundred hills were dropped through each planter. Three kernels in a hill was considered perfect. NUMBER OP TIMES THE FOLLOWING KERNELS WERE DROPPED PER HILL. Experiment No. 1. Planter. Ik 2k 3k 4k 5k 6k % Perfect. No. 1 1 2 2 4 1 3 15 35 25 51 65 1H7 469 457 445 414 8.37 3(15 15 6 27 30 94 53 1 1 3 1 1 1 933 No. 2 91? No. 3 89" No. 4 8^i No. 5 No 6 7il 6l' Experiment No. 2. Planter. Ik 2k 3k .•k 5k 6k % Peifect. No. 1 1 9 2 20 10 84 25 64 111 468 438 4:2 422 359 332 12 5U 31 50 73 54 2 1 3 4 1 933 No. 2 No. 3 . . . 89i 86= No. 4 84? No. 5 No. 6 71* 665 Experiment No. 3. Planter. 1. 2k 8k 4k .=5k 6k % Perfect. No. 3 6 18 20 25 77 13 481 478 472 467 350 274 13 9 8 8 72 198 1 15 96 1 No. 4 No 2 94 i 943 No. 1 .• No. 5 985 70 No. 6 o4i Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 show results with different rcakes of edge drop planters, while 5 and 6 show results with planters using the common round hole planter plates. SHRINKAGE EXPERIMENT. This experiment was conducted to determine the amount of shrinkage in corn under ordinary conditions, A small crib holding about one hundred bushels was built on a truck wagon. This was filled with corn duriog the husking season and careful weights were then taken at the dates indicated. The following table gives the net weights of corn, the percentage of shrink- age to date, a,nd the number of pounds lost between the different number of days. As the tables indicate, the percentage lost by shrinkage to February 27th was 12.60. 54 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Date of Weighing. 1 •s Sri 1^ o c u II II October 24 . . . . . 6013 5932 5912 5896 5872 5858 5852 5782 5616 5522 5492 5860 5322 5258 .00 1.39 1.56 1.99 2.39 2.63 2.73 4.72 6.66 8.21 8.71 10.90 11.53 12.60 2 28 35 28 October 26 84 October 27 20 October 28 . . 16 October 29 24 October 30 14 October 31 6 120 November 14 .... 116 94 30 December 26 132 38 February 27 64 TABLE SHOWING DIFFERENT RATES OF SHRINKAGE. Varieties. Date. 2-^ O «i ;h >: '^ji b 1--^ Is -^0 ?l O o ^txo 0. 00 0.00 2.66 ] 23 5.32 2.72 7.18 4.20 8.51 5.18 10.63 4.93 ft . -it! h a; as o October November 7 November 14 November 21 November 28 January 9... 0.00 0.00 2. 13 4.46 5.82 6.00 7.71 7.10 10.68 8.93 15.76 11.94 0.00 10.57 17.49 0.00 3.20 6 84 8.22 10.50 15.30 0.00 2.47 3.46 5.44 5.44 7.67 0.00 2.33 2.33 12. ,90 0.00 2.00 2.88 3.76 4.87 5.75 Table shows the high percentage of moisture contained in much of the corn at cribbing time. Nashes' early yellow was perfectly matured and as a result lost very little in shrinkage. The various samples of Reid's, harvested under different conditions, all contain a very great amount of water. Table showing shrinkage by months in four leading varieties of ear corn from time it was husked and cribbed in the fall of 1902 for nine successive months. Date. III Kegley's Golden Beauty. Per cent shrink in pounds. Iowa Silver Mine. Per cent shrink in pounds. a m October 25 00 00 7.60 9.12 11.40 12.92 14.82 20.53 20.53 22.05 22.05 00 00 6.66 7.71 9.82 11.57 13.33 18.24 18.59 20.35 21.40 00.00 6.54 8.00 9.80 12.00 13.45 18.90 19.27 20.00 21.09 00 00 November 25 7.36 December 25 ..... 8.52 •January 25 .... 10.85 February 25 . . 12.79 March 25 14.72 April 25 19.37 May25 June 25 19.76 21.31 July 25 21.70 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 55 PREPARING SEED CORN FOR THE PLANTER. After the germination test, the next step is preparing the corn for the planter. First, by removing the mixed kernels. In yellow varieties it can be done better before shelling and in white varieties after shelling, as the mixed kernels often do not show in white corn until the corn has been shelled; second, by butting and tipping the ears of corn to insure the planter dropping the correct number of kernels in each hill. To be certain of getting the drop adjusted properly, twenty or thirty ears should be shelled separately and put into grades of large, medium and small kernels. The planter can then be tried with each grade and the proper plates selected for each grade. If the proper plates are not at hand, then those nearest may be calibrated to do the work as desired. This is very essential and it should be done before the rush of spring work begins. A small outlay for additional plates or a new planter may mean the diflference between a good crop and a poor one. The planter must do the work properly. After the planter is tested and it is known what grades are wanted, the seed corn should be carefully shelled, put into sacks and properly labeled. The planter can be adjusted to drop the different grades in a uniform raanner, if the grades are kept separate and the proper planter plate used for each grade, but if these different sized kernels are mixed and drop mis- cellaneously, it will be impossible to secure a uniform number of stalks per hill. We can not afford to neglect this important work. If every farmer in the Srate would test every ear of his seed corn this winter in the way described above, the yield would be wonderfully increased. No other time will be so piofitable to the farmer as that spent in testing the vitality of his seed and in grading it to ensure the planter dropping the proper number of kernels in each hill. It is possible for every one to do this work. It will cost nothing but the time, of which there is plenty at this season when the work should be done. Every farmer should realize the importance of testing every ear of his seed corn before spring work begins. No possible loss can come from it an 1 it will ensure a good stand of corn, which is absolutely essential, if the best results are to be secured from the year's hard work. One day spent in March on the seed corn, may be worth more than a month of hard work in the field, later. Without good seed, the after labor is of little avail. Nothing is more depressing or discouraging than a poor stand of corn. If the seed is carefully tested and only good seed planted, there are no risks to run, except those made necessary to every one from the conditions of the weather, etc., which can not be controlled. It is during the bad seasons, when conditions are unfavorable that we most need the kernels with large, deep germs of a bright cheerful color well-matured, which will give the most vigorous germination. It is essential to seek improved varieties of corn, but it is also important that better treatment be given to the seed that is to be planted. DO NOT IMPORT SEED CORN. If the test shows the seed to be weak and unreliable and it is necessary to secure other seed, it should be obtained from some reliable neighbor, who has a surplus. 56 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. No farmer can afford to depend upon imported seed for the main part of his crop. If he is unable to secure a variety from his neighbors that has been grown and that has matured well in his locality and ic becomes neces- sary to import seed, it should be secured from the'Shortest distance possible, east or west, as such seed is preferable to that grown in the north or south, but it is safer to import it from the north than from the south. The southern varieties will produce large stalks and heavy foliage, and the large, deep kerneled ears will be late in maturing. Northern grown corn will be smaller in ear and finer in stalk, but will mature earlier. Seed corn imported from a distance, and especially from a southern latitude, seldom gives satisfac- tory results the first two or three years, even though the seed be the best, which oftimes is not the case. It is well known that the most of the seed corn put on the market by seedsmen, is bought of farmers in crib lots, shelled, screened and sacked, ready for sale, little or no attention being paid to the selection. In fact, it is generally handled with a scoop shovel and is known as the ' 'scoop shovel method of selection." The chances are that the farmer has in his own crib better corn than that which he purcha.-es from seedsmen at four or five times the market prices- Then he runs the risk of it not maturing in his locality. If it were simply a matter of losing the price of the bushel of imported seed corn it would not be so serious, but when we consider that a bushel of seed corn ought to produce 400 bushels of corn, worth from one hundred and thirty to one hundred and sixty dollars, the serious nature of the ques" tion i§ very apparent. SELECTING AND STORING SHED CORN. One of the best plans is to begin this spring by selecting fifty or one hun- dred of the very best ears in your seed corn, while you are making the test "of germination. These ears should then be butted and tipped and each ear -shelled by itself and carefully studied. The kernels should have a bright, cheerful appearance, be full and plump at the tips and have a large clear germ, otherwise they should be discarded. It is very important that this choice seed should be planted at the time of the first planting, putting it on the south or west side of the field, unless there is danger that it would become mixed from some neighbor's corn near by. In this case, it may be put on the other side of the field. The important thing is to get it in early and, if possible, on fall plowed ground. This will allow the corn to become thoroughly matured early next fall. The great importance of this can not be over estimated. It is the late maturing corn that is caught by the breezes, as there is not sufficient time for it to dry out. All the seed corn for the next crop should be selected from this patch which was planted from the very best ears It is a very common practice to select the occasional good ears found throughout the entire husking season. There are three important reasons why this should not be done. In the first place, we are more likely to neglect the work until too late, when we find ourselves without good seed for the next year. Again, many of the kernels on these good ears selected throughout the entire field or season have neces- sarily been fertilized by pollen from the scrub stalks and those which are perhaps barren. In other words, we have simply selected a good female. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 57 but know nothing of the character of the male stalks from which the pollen came that fertilized the kernels. On the other hand, if our seed is all selected from the seed patch planted only from the very best ears, we are much more certain of good parents on both < sides. It is a good practice and one followed bv many corn growers to go through this seed patch o^ two or three acres planted from this thirty or forty best ears of corn, after it has been ' 'laid by" and before the tassels appear, and cut out all of the weak and sickly stalks and those that are too tall and late or too short and earlv and in this way prevent them from producing pollen to fertilize the kernels of other ears. One of the most serious results from depending on the occasional good ear found throughout the entire husking season is that many of the fields are late and the corn immature and the husks will prevent the corn from drying out properly and, as a consequence, it is frozen before it is husked or, at least, before it has had time to dry out after husking. Again, we often begin harvesting our poorest fields first and delay saving seed until we come to our "best fields." If any advice was to be given, it would be to select all the seed from this "early seed patch" not later than October 15th to 20th, taking the most mature ears. They should then be tied eight or ten ears in a string with binding twine, or they may be tied together in pairs and hung on some wires or some strips in an open shed where the sun can not shine on them, but where the wind can have the best possible opportunity to blow through the corn and dry it thoroughly. As soon as dry and before any hard freezes (say November 1st to 5th), take down and store in some place where there is good circulation of air, as in the attic or furnace room, where it will be pro- tected from the severe freezes during November and December. It it is certain that the corn has thoroughly dried out, it may remain where it was hung in the open shed all winter, providing the sparrows and mice do not trouble it, and there will be no danger of injury from freezing. But in slow, cold seasons, like the past two, where the corn was not hung up before October 20th, the only safe thing to do is to take the corn down and place it where it is protected as stated above. In case the harvesting of seed corn is neglected until November (which should not be done but is too often the case) it should be taken direct to some room where it can be pro- tected from freezing by artificial heat and where there is a good circulation of air. There are several cautions which should be observed in the storing of seed corn. Do not put immature or freshly gathered seed corn in a warm room on the floor or in piles. It will either sprout or mould, or both. The corn should be hung up and the windows left open for the circulation of air. Seed corn should not be left in barrels and boxes nor on the floor or porch in piles. It should be properly taken care of as soon as harvested. Do not store seed corn over the laundry room nor over the stable, as it will gather moisture and be injured by freezing. The most critical time for seed corn is during the first month after it is harvested, while it is green and sappy. There is danger that it will mould or grow if the room is warm and the circulation of the air is not good or if the corn is put in piles. On the other hand, there is danger of its freezing, unless protected. Corn dries out much more slowly than is generally sup- 58 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. posed. The experiments of the College show that corn, which shrunk twenty-six per cent during the year in a small crib, had lost on January 1st, but eight per cent in vveight. This corn was put into the crib on October 27th. Last spring thousands of fields in Iowa were planted with weakened seed. This together with the cold spring and frequently too deep planting, gave poor stands and necessitated much replanting. The importance of selecting thirty or forty of the choicest ears, planting them on one side of our earliest planted field, can not be too strongly empha- sized. Out of this seed patch, the seed for next year's crop should be selected not later than October 20th, and hung up at once where it can dry out thoroughly before any severe freeze. V'^X i**~"v. ^A y? A "^^ ^ J 9 ^• (; t • - Wf^ 1 f" a ^ V e ft! Xhfy \ t - / ' i 1 ] 7 1 Fig. 4. No. 1 shows worthless kernels that refused to grow under favorable con- ditions. On an average nineteen out of every one hundred kernels of all the samples sent in for germination test, up to March 6th, are of this class, and should be discarded. No. 2 shows weak kernels, which, if put into the ground under unfavora- ble conditions, when it is cold and wet, will probably fail to grow at all or give weak stalks. Twenty-one kernels in every one hundred give weak germination. No. 3 shows strong, vigorous germination; of the 2,000 samples sent in, only sixty kernels in every hundred, on an average, showed similar vigor in germination. These sixty strong kernels if planted alone on a given area, would, doubt- less, produce more corn than if planted along with the twenty-one weak ones; for the weak ones producing a weak growth, would use up the light and the air and fertility, which would otherwise go to the advantage of the stronger stalks. Another objection is the fact that the stronger ears would be more or less fertilized by the pollen from the undesirable stalks. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 59 It Fig. 5. The above cut shows good and bad forms of kernels. The pairs of ker- nels Nos. 1, 2, 11 and 12 show the best forms in order named; while Nos. 5, 6, 7 and 8 show the poorest forms in the order named. Pair No. 1 is the best since the kernels are full and plump at the tips next to the cob and have large germs. Both of these points are important as they indicate strong vitality and feeding value. On the other hand pairs 5, 6 and 7 are especially weak with low feeding value and small per cent of corn to cob. It will also be observed that these kernels are far from uniform in siz and shape (compare Nos. 4, 2 and 6) and hence no planter will drop an even number per hill. (See table of tests.) When we realize that all these ker- nels were taken from ears that appeared to be good, when examined from the standpoint of the ear alone, we can readily appreciate the importance of paying more attention to the study of the kernels of corn in our seed ears. 60 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 6. DIFFERENT SIZES OF KERNELS. No. 1 is an ear of medium quality with deep, fairly uniform kernels. No. 2 has broad, thick, shallow kernels lacking in uniformity, while ear No. 3 is a good example of the long, narrow shoepeg type. It would be impossible to so adjust the planter as to drop these different styles of ker- nels together and secure a good stand. See Fig. 5. As the kernels from FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART 61 No. 3 are less than half the size of those from No. 2 they would be dropped much more rapidly if an average sized plate were used. Ear 3 has 980 kernels; ear 2, 540; ear 1, 840. If kernels of this type are to be planted thCy must be shelled separately and suitable planter plates used for each. Fig. 7. good shapes of ears. Fig. 7 illustrates good forms of ears. These ears are well propor- tioned. Their butts and tips are good. The rows are straight and the kernels uniform. The ears are full in the middle parts, showing strength, constitution, and good breeding. It is very essential that an ear show fullness in the middle portion, as this is the place where the greatest quan- tity as well as the best quality of corn will be found. Ears 1 and 2 would plant well together. Ears 3 and 1 are slightly better in shape than 2 and 4. 62 [OWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 8. POOR EARS. No. 1 is a fairly well shaped ear, has been fertilized and will give a good proportion of corn to cob. Its utter lack in uniformity of kernels, however, makes it a very undesirable ear for seed. Note the irregularity of the rows, the variation in the size, shape and dent of kernels. Such an ear should never be used for seed. No. 2 was an early ear but some of its silks were fertilized by pollen from a late variety. Those fertilized by the early pollen produced well matured kernels; those fertilized by the late pollen failed to ripen. A close study of these kernels shows that some of them have lost the entire crown while others have simply burst the skin and exposed the starchy portion. These damaged kernels, being later than the others, were badly crowded and not being so far advanced as their neighbors were forced to grow too long in FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 63 proportion to their width. The early kernels, having dented, make the late ones appear longer than they really are. The probable reason why these late kernels split open is that being soft and higher than the more matured ones, the pressure of the husks upon the silks held them in such close con- tact with the crown that the outer covering was weakened and finally burst. As soon as this ear was stored the kernels moulded and in a short time rotted. For further discussion of the disadvantages of kernels maturing at different times see Fig. 10. No. 3 shows a spiral arrangement of rows with thick blocky kernels, lacking in uniformity. The tip is weak and the whole ear, through lack of proper proportion, indicates weakness and lack of breeding. No. 4 is especially worthy of notice because of the unusual condition of its kernels The ear is of good length, showing that the stalk which bore it possessed good constitution. Its kernels, however, are very uneven, weak and low in vitality. It is probable that this ear was late and expended a great deal of energy in throwing out silks in hope that they would be Fig. 64 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. fertilized. As it was late and nearly all of the pollen had been shed, the only supply left was that which had lodged on the leaves. This, through age, had become weakened and when blown upon the already partly ex- hausted silks failed to produce kernels of sufficient vitality to properly fill out and mature. FIG. -SCRUB EARS — NUBBINS Late corn has usually more nubbins than that which matures earlier. These ' 'scrub" ears are sometimes produced because the silks at the butt of the ear appear so early that there is no pollen to fertilize them. As a result, no kernels are formed on the butt of the ear. No. 4 is a good example of this. No. 3 suffered from the same cause, but, in addition, lacked strength and vitality and so produced very few kernels. No. 2, with its wide space between rows, is a good illustration of a run out ear. While No. 5 appears to be a medium ear it is, in reality, very poor. Note the peculiarly beaked appearance of the crown of the kernels ending in a needle-like projection. This is a sure indication of running out. The shallow kernels and the small circumference in proportion to length are strong indications of lack of con- titution. Ear 4 has sharp projecting points also. Barring the butt, it is a much stronger ear. Fig. 10. FIFTT ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 65 The presence of these nubbins greatly reduces the annual yield of corn. Through extreme earliness, or extreme lateness, or owing to lack of vitality they never produce good ears. They receive the same care and cultivation as the good ears and in return yield very little. By carefully selecting only vigorous seed ears we can greatly reduce this loss. In connection with this, study "The Product of a Single Hill," Fig. 14. Figure 10, Ears Nos. 5 and 2 illustrate ears of corn with good kernels of medium depth. Ears Nos. 1 and 3 illustrate very shallow kernels, and if the kernels from these four ears are mixed it is impossible to plant them evenly. Ear No. 4 shows space between the kernels at the cob which indicates weak vitality, low percentage of corn to cob and low feeding value, the valuable portion of the kernel not being filled out. When examined exter- nally these ears all appeared equally good. This shows the importance of removing several kernels when selecting seed corn. Fig. 11. 66 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig 11 the kernels on ear No. 1 are nearly the same depth from tip to butt, while the kernels of ear No. 2 grow rapidly shorter towards the tip. The kernels on ear No. 3 are small, shallow and flinty, little larger than grains of pop-corn and will run through the planter about like wheat. When these three ears were shelled together and tested in the planter there was a range of all the way from 2 to 7 kernels per hill. Fig 12. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 67 FIG. 12— SHAPE OF KERNELS. No. 2 shows about the proper space to be looked for between the rows, the two middle ones being a little too open for the upper half of the distance. Should the rows fit more closely it would be a disadvantage as the corn would require too long a time to dry out. An ear having very little space between the rows at the crown almost invariably has a great deal of space between the l^ernels next to the cob, through having narrow pointed kernels. No. 1 shows more space'.between the rows than No. 2 and the kernels will have less space between them next to the cob . The character of these kernels, however, makes space on No. 1 more admissible than on ear 2, lor the reason that the kernels are of a rougher type, are much longer and consequently re- quire more space in order to dry out. The space between the rows at the butt is, however, too great. Ear 3 shows very wide space and a broad, thick but shallow kernel. Ears having such wide space are not necessarily lacking in vitality. It does, however, indicate a running out such as is most fre- quently seen in corn grown in the extreme north of the corn belt. As the season is short the kernel must take the shallower form with open space in order to mature. No. 2 illustrates a kernel of medium depth and about proper space between the rows. It would be best adapted for the central part of the corn belt, while No. 1, with its deep kernels and wider space between the rows, would be suited for a longer season such as would be found farther south. These are all good ears and the tendency would be in selecting seed to keep all three of them. This is a mistake. In the first place these kernels differ too much in size and shape, and if the ears were shelled the difference would be still more striking. See Fig. 5. No planter can drop these ker- ,nels properly if mixed, consequently we have a poor stand and low yield no matter how rich the soil or how favorable the year may be. If it is neces- sary to use ears of this kind, separate them into three or more classes and use the proper planter plate for each. In the second place it is a mistake to plant these three types of ears to- gether, because they will not shed their pollen nor mature at the same time. For effects of this see Fig. 8. If you are so far north that only ear No. 3 • ■ J 4" V '^ w p Fig. 13. 68 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. will mature, you can not afford to risk Nos. 1 and 2; if far enough south to be sure that No. 1 will mature you are better off without Nos. 2 and 3. The chief reason why Iowa's corn grades so low on the market is because we too often grow the large, deep-kerneled southern varieties which seldom mature here. If we would raise our standard, each corn grower must select only those varieties which mature in his locality. He can not hope to obtain anything like maximum crops if he attempts to grow such widely varying types as the cbove illustration shows. FIG. 13— PROPORTICN OF CORN TO COB. Ear No. 1 shows a moderately long kernel on an average sized cob. The kernel has a good full germ with sufficient space between the rows to dry out readily. The proportion of corn to cob is good Fig. n. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 69 No. 2 is an illustration of a deep, long-kerneled corn on a small cob. Such a corn would naturally be adapted only to the southern districts. Its germ, while longer, is not so full or strong as that of No. 1. A kernel so long and thin is always difficult to plant because the ordinary planter is made for the average kernel and not for exceptionally long ones and, there- fore, special care will need to be taken to properly adjust the plates so as to drop the desired number of kernels. Kernels of this formation are inclined to be chaffy and late in maturing. The proportion of corn to cob is rather too great, A small cob is desirable, but if it is carried to the extreme it becomes a source of weakness rather than of strength. We can no more reasonably hope to produce an abnormally high percentage of corn to cob than we can to produce large ears on weak, sickly stalks. There is a proper relation or proportion existing between the weight of corn and the weight of cob, and if we develop the corn at the expense of the cob, weakness and loss of constitution will result. While the proportion of corn to cob varies with different varieties it would appear that 86-87 per cent is about the right proportion to give best results. No. 3 is a more normal ear and shows better relations between corn and cob. The kernels are of medium length, good shape and possess strong, vigorous germs. The crown is not rough, which, taken with the medium depth kernel, would indicate that it was a medium early corn, such as would be suitable for the central districts of the corn belt. No. 4 shows very short kernels with poor, weak germs. This ear would yield a very low percentage of corn to cob. PRODUCT OF A SINGLE HILL. Fig 14 illustrates what is loo often seen in a single hill — a good ear, a poor ear and a nubbin. We have seen this so often that we never stop to think what it means. Why do not all these stalks bear ears like No. 3? Being in the same hill, the conditions of soil, climate and moisture must have been exactly the same. Oae could not have received more thorough cultivation than another. From the time the corn was dropped there was no good reason who Nos. 1 and 2 should not be as good as No. 3. Why, then, is there this wide variation? Can we do anything to bring Nos. 1 and 2 up to the standard set by No. 3? We can. The difference in yield of these three ears was not due to differences in soil, climate or cultivation. The difference lay behind all this — it lay in the character of the parents planted. If we could locate all the stalks in the field which spring from the brothers of the kernal that produced No. 2 we would find that the great majority of them were ears, on an average, as good as it is. The same thing would hold true in the case of the parents of No. 1 and No. 3. This would lead us to the conclusion that the difference in these three ears is due to the difference in the producing power of their parents. In our study of individual ears we saw the wide variation in the yield which different ears produced. We saw that while one ear yielded 90 bush- els per acre, another ear beside it, which had exactly the same conditions, produced only 36 bushels. Some ears produced twelve times as many bar- ren stalks as others and the same held true with the broken stalks. Now if we can select the ear which gives the large ear-producing stalks and leave out the one which produces the small ear and the one which produces the nub- 70 IOWA DEPARSMENT OF AGRICULTURE. bins we will have gone a long way toward materially increasing our yield; for it is evident that this wide variation is due to the difference in the pro- ducing power of these two ears. In this work of selection the ear may be taken as the unit. While there is something in the individuality of each kernel, we are sure of getting good corn and a large increase in the number of good ears to the hill if we study our seed ears carefully and plant only the best Fourteen ears on an average will plant an acre, therefore, if we put in one ear that produces a great many nubbins and barren stalks we greatly reduce our yield on that acre. Fig. 15. BARREN STALKS. Out Of the five stalks in these two hills only one produced a good ear. Note how weak and sickly the non-productive stalks are compared with the productive one. Barrenness is one of the greatest sources of loss ia corn FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 71 growing. To the farmer who grows corn for the grain alone these barren stalks are worse than a complete loss. They not only deprive the pro- ductive stalks of food, moisture and light but they produce polen which fertilizes the silks of the good stalks and so reduces the vigor and future pro- ducing power of many of the good ears. Nubbins are simply a mild form of barrenness. This subject of barren stalks is very closely related to that of "The Pro- duct of a Sin.2:le Hill." (See Fig. 14.) :;■ .M \^J. This cut gives an illustration of the class of stalks which produce the nubbins, or what is worse, nothing at all. The unproductive stalks in these two hills have hundreds of brothers scattered here and there through- out the field wherever th-e kernels from the ear that produced them were 72 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. planted. Some of these brothers of course bore something, but a large per cent of the plants that came from that ear would be about like four of those in this cut— worse than nothing. On the other hand the stalks bearing the good ear would have hunrreds of brothers throughout the field, which came from the same good ear it did, bearing— not nubbins or nothing at all as these are doing— but strong, vigorous stalks producing, in turn, a large per- centage of good vigorous ears. This question resolves itself into one of getting rid of these unprofitable ears and of planting only vigorous ear-producing ones. On an average one stalk in every seven produces nothing because of barrenness. One acre in every seven planted to corn is worse than wasted because of these unproduc- tive stalks. Yet a little time and care in selecting our seed corn— not a dol- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I, 73 lar in outlay is required — will materially lessen this enormous loss. We can not pay too much attention to the careful selection of our seed corn. LACK OF UNIFORMITY IN HEIGHT OF EARS. Fig. 16 illustrates lack of uniformity in height of ears in the same hill. In all cases these stalks were vigorous and produced ears of average size. It is an undesirable character, however, as it indicates a lack of breeding. As extremely high ears tend to be later than those lower down, they should not be used for seed purposes. Ears, on the other hand, that are too low tend to extreme earliness and as these two classes do not mature well together they should be avoided and none but ears borne at a uniform height should be used for seed. UNIFORMITY IN HEIGHT OF EARS. Fig. 17 shows two hills of corn. No. 1 has two stalks each of which has produced a good ear Both stalks are strong and vigorous and the ears are of uniform height. Hill 2, produced three stalks each of which bore an ear Fia. 18. 74 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. at a uniform and desirable height. This is an evidence of good breeding. Uniformity in height of ear is not so important as uniformity of kernels, but it is important in that it indicates good breeding and in ears of the same variety, a uniform time of ripening. SHOWING DIFFERENT TYPES OF CORN. Fig. 18. In selecting seed corn it is important that all the ears be as nearly as possible of the same type. Ears Nos. 3 and 4 should not be planted with Nos. 1 and 2 as they arefifteen days later in maturing than the latter. In order to secure the best pollination it is important that all the stalks should shoot and the ears silk at about the same time. The very early and the very late stalks are usually barren, or partly so, owing to lack of pollen at these times. It is also very difficult to secure an even stand of differnt types, as kernels are almost certain to be of different sizes and shapes, making it impossible for a planter to drop them evenly. Fig. 19. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 75 GOOD SHAPE OF EARS. Fig. 19 illustrates good forms of ears. All are well proportioned, have good butts and tips, the rows are straight and the kernels uniform. All the ears show strength, constitution and good breeding. Ears 1, 3 and 4 would plant well together. Ears 3 and 1 are slightly better in shape than ears 2 and 4. When we realize the possibilities that are wrapped up in a single ear of corn and then make the careful selection the importance of the subject de- mands, we can, in a few years, greatly increase the value of the corn crop. Fig 20. EAR WITH BROKEN KERNELS. Fig 20 illustrates a condition that exists more frequently than is generally supposed. Externally this ear appeared perfectly sound and in good con- dition. When some of the kernels were removed, however, the extent of the damage was apparent. Not infrequently splendid looking samples are put on exhibition and are no better in this respect than the ear shown in the cut. More frequently such ears, because of their good external appearance, are used for seed and as all the ears are shelled together the worse than worthless condition of the ear is seldom noticed. The only outward evidence that this ear was not sound was shown in some rows of kernels being slightly raised above others. This peculiar con- dition is indicative of checked or broken kernels and is probably due to the silks remaining between the rows. When the silks decay the outer covering of the kernel which is in contact with them becomes affected a short dis- tance above the tip. Moisture and heat then cause the kernel to decay and generally the vitality of the kernel is entirely destroyed. (See Fig. 21 for photograph of affected kernels.) The whitish spots shown in the illustra- tion are the lower portions of the kernel below the break; the thin whitish lines near the tips of the outer rows of kernels illustrate how the silks affect the outer coat and make it easy f r decay to set in. The fact that such ears appear good from the outside and that they are frequently shelled with others and used for seed is one of the strongest argu- ments that can be advanced in support of shelling each seed ear separately. Not ten per cent of the kernels on this ear would grow and yet it appeared 76 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. sound and in good seed condition. An examination of the kernels from each ear would lead to the rejection of all such and as time required to remove a few kernels from each ear is very little we can not afiford.when we remember the possibilities that lie in a single ear of corn, to neglect to shell each ear by itself, disregard all badly damaged ears and pick out the occa- sional broken or injured kernels which are sometimes present in good ears. Fig. 21. MATURITY OF KERNELS. Kernels 1 and 9 germinated but after bursting the outer covering the young plantlet died. The ears from which these kernels were taken were stored in a warm place before they were thoroughly dried out, with the result that growth commenced. Nos. 2 and 3 have been injured probably by the decay of silks between the rows. (See Fig. 20.) Kernels injured in this way frequently break off in shelling. They should never be used for seed. Nos. 10, 11 and 12 are all good illustrations of immature kernels. Notice how the germs of all of them are either blistered or wrinkled. When No. 10 was shelled the tip adhered to the cob leaving the germ iosufficiently protected. If this kernel was planted under favorable conditions it would grow, but if the planting is followed by cold, wet wether it will be far more likely to rot than a kernel that had not lost the tip cap. This is an indica- tion of immaturity. Nos. 11 and 12 show kernels which were so immature that, when shelled, large pieces of cob adhered. Nos. 13 and 14 show immature kernels which shrivelled when dried. Nos. 4, Sand 6 are all immature but No. 4 has shrunken more than either of the others and presents a dull, dead appear- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 7T ance. Nos. 7 and 15 are very fair both as to shape and degree of maturity; 8 and 16 are excellent. No. 16 with its splendid form and bright, cheerful appearance is especially good. j^ S Z I Fig. 22. BACKS OF KERNELS. Fig. 22 shows backs of kernels. Nos. 1, 2 and 10 show an unusually large proportion of the starchy part on the back and a very small percentage of hard, horny matter. This is an indication of immaturity. Such kernels always have a dull, dead color and are sure to be low in vitality as they are generally produced by late, weak stalks. Nos. 8 and 9 show kernels injured by contact with silks. (See Fig. 20.) When No. 9 was shelled the tip was nearly torn oflf. No. 3 illustrates the same thing only to a less extent. The crown of No. 3 is very thin and weak. No. 11 is a poorly shaped kernel and, in addition, is starchy and shrunken at the tip. Being thin as well as pointed, its vitality is very low. No. 4 is poor in that the crown is very thin and starchy; 5 and 12 are weak just[above the tip as the depression shews. Nos. 7 and 14 are well developed, bright and strong; 6 and 13 are less per- fect but are still bright and cheerful kernels. All four carry the horny part to the crown of the kernel. 78 IOWA DEPARTMEMT OF AGRICULTURE, Fig. 23. In selecting seed corn ears Nos. 2 and 3 should be discarded as no planter will drop a uniform number of these kernels per hill. Ears Nos. 1 and 4 have kernels of uniform size and shape and when the butts and tips. were shelled ofif the planter dropped three kernels to a hill 93 to 95 times out of every hundred tests while ear No. 2 tested 74-3's, 19-2 's, 6-1's and 1-5. SPACE BETWEEN ROWS. Fig. 24. Ear No. 3 has about the right amount of space between the rows to insure best results, while ears 1 and 4 illustrate the extremes. Ear No. 1 has too much space showing a deteriorated or ''run-out" appearance, and shelling oat a low per cent of corn to cob. On the other hand where there is too little space between the rows, as in the case of No. 4, the ear generally presents a dull, starchy or immature appearance. The kernels are too pointed or wedge-shaped, leaving a great deal of open space next to the cob, and are lacking in vitality. Ear No. 2 has a little too much space, while ^here is perhaps not quite enough on ear No. 5. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 79 Fig. 24. COMPOSITION OF KERNEL. 1 Parts. Per Cent Protein. Per Cent Oil. Total. 13.51 9.98 12 26 1.00 3.33 12.02 14 51 Middle Tip 13.31 24.28 Fig. 25 illustrates a corn kernel divided into three sections — crown, middle and tip. The two most valuable constituents of the kernel are protein and oil. Protein is a muscle former; oil is a fat producer. These constituents are not equally distributed through the kernel, but are formed in greater abundance in some parts than in others. This table shows that the tip portion is richer in protein than either the middle or the crown and that it contains a greater per cent of oil. The tip is also very rich in ash. This makes it important that the kernels have a full, plump tip, not only that they may possess a high feeding value, but that when planted the seed may have a good supply of food which will enable it to produce a vigorous, healthy plant. 80 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. /.*• 1 / / ( 0^ » -A ■\ ^-iufu Fig. 25. Fig. 26 Fig. 26 shows a cross section of a corn kernel, (s:) is the germ chit. (f. p.) is the floury portion lying just under the germ, (h. p.) represents the hard, horny portion of the kernel. The following table shows the comparative feeding value of the different parts of the kernel: Per Cent Protein. I Per Cent Oil. Per Cent Ash, Total. Germ (g. ) . Floury portion (f. p. ). Horny portion (h. p.) . 19.28 7.93 10.93 34.6 .81 1.03 10.11 .52 .65 63.99 y.26 12.61 The above table shows: First, that the germ is the richest part in the three most valuable feeding constituents. Second, that the white, starchy portion has the lowest feeding value. From this we can see the importance of selecting ears having large deep germs and containing a small amount ot the floury portion. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 81 ^^ 34 J3 32 31 30 29 28 Z7 26 25 24-^3 22 2/ 20'"f^' ."- '■• 12- iO ■ 8 6 4 2 Fig. 27. The upper row (Nos. 21 to 37) shows the depth of germ when the ker- nels are split in two lengthwise through the middle of the germ. Nos. 21, 24, 27, 28, 29, 33 and 35 show very deep germs and are from ears rich in protein and oil, No. 35 being from the ear richest in protein of 1,400 tests, while Nos. 22, 23, 36 and 37 are from ears very poor in feeding value. It will also be noticed that the germs are very small. The lower two rows show cross sections of kernels. Nos. 2, 4, 14 and 18 are among the poorest, having very small germs and consequently very low in feeding value. Nos. 12, 16, 15 and 17 are among the very best. Fig. 28. Fig. 28. The kernels in the top row in the above cut are taken from ear No. 2, shown on the following page, and those in the bottom row are taken from ear No. 1. 6 82 IOWA DEPARTMENF OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 29. The lower row of kernels in the above cut are from ear No. 1, shown on the following page, and the kernels in the upper row are from ear No. 2. Judging from outward appearances of the ears, little or no diflference in their values could be discovered. The ears from which these two rows were taken were almost exactly of the same size, yet ear No. L (see cut on follow- ing page) weighed 16 per cent more than ear No. 2, and shelled out 203^ per cent more corn than ear No. 2. Ear' No. 2 is not only much poorer in feeding value than No. 1, but has a much lower vitality and would give a weaker plant. It is very important that the tips of the kernels — the portion next to the cob— should be full and plump so that there is no space between the kernels down near the cob. In selecting our seed corn it is important that we should do more than look at the ears; we must study the kernels. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 83 Fig. 30. Fig. 30. Ear 2 shows space between the kernels next to the cob. Ear 1 is especially strong, showing good constitution. [See kernels from these two ears in Figs. 28 and 29 on preceding page.] 84 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, /f /'^ IZ II 10 S $ fly6i9<«iiii 7 4 Fig. 31. DIFFERENT TYPES OF KERNELS. Fig. 31, Nos. 1, 2 and 3 are illustrations of kernels with poor, weak germs. Note how small and shrunken the germs are compared with Nos. 6 and 7. Nos. 8 and 9 are somewhat better, but the poor shape of their kernels, coupled with their small germs, make them very undesirable ker- nels. Pointed kernels such as these do not give room for good development of germ. In addition to being pointed these kernels are very thin at the tips, and so are weaker than they appear. Kernels of this shape frequently break off in shelling, especially if immature. No. 2 has a shrunken, blistered germ, owing to its immaturity, but is of a better form than 1, 8 or 9. Cobs bearing such kernels give a very low percentage of corn to cob as the wedge- like shape of the kernels does not allow them to fit closely. Nos. 3 and 10 are types of very broad, shallow kernels, such as are grown in the north where the season is short and where deep kernels could not mature. Kernels 5 and 12 have germs rather under the medium size, but are particularly weak at the crown. They do not carry their width up well like 13 and 14. T.hey are thin at the crown, giving a chaffy appearance to the ear. Of the remain- ing four No. 14 is the best, followed by 6, 13 and 7 in the order named. No. 14 is a practically good kernel. It is of the broadly-wedged type, carries its width well down to the tip, has good depth and good width. It possesses a large, plump, cheerful germ, and the appearance of the whole kernel indi- cates strength and vitality. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I, 85 Fig. 32. Fig. 32. Kernels showing large and small germs, taken from diflferent ears of corn. The left hand kernels in all pairs come from ears with low feeding value and should be discarded for seed purposes, while the right hand kernels with large germs come from ears with a high per cent of oil and protein. ^ * * • f .♦ Fig. 33. No. lack of maturity. Fig. 33. 2 kernels with chaflEy portion of cob adhering indicating 86 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. No. 3 shows broken kernels. Ears with kernels of this kind should be discarded. No. 5 — Kernels with the tip portion protecting the germs broken off. While kernels of this kind frequently grow, yet it indicates lack of maturity. Pairs of kernels Nos. 1, 7, 8, 9 and 10 show good, deep, well-filled germs, thus indicating strong vitality and good feeding value. Nos. 11, 12 and 13 show short germs, indicating weak vitality and low feeding value. Fig. 34. TAKING THE CORN FROM THE RACKS AND PLACING IT ON THE TABLES V^'HERE IT CAN BE STUDIED. Fig. 34. The first step in the selection of corn is to get the ears out where they can be examined and compared. A long table or a couple of planks placed on barrels or boxes will answer this purpose very well. Arrange the ears with the butts even with the edge of the table. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 87 Fig 35. SORTING OUT AND DISCARDING POOR EARS. Fig. 35. Second Step. Having selected the ear which most nearly represents the type desired, go over the samples and discard all ears that do not conform to it in size, shape, color and uniformity of kernels. IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 36. EXAMINING THE KERNELS. Fig. 36. Third Step. From these selected ears remove two or three kernels and place them, germ side up, in front of the ear from which they were taken. Study the kernels carefully together with the ear as a whole, discarding those ears having faulty kernels. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. Fig. 37. SHELLING OFF BUTTS AND TIPS. Fig. 37. Fourth Step. Next shell off butts and tips. This is absolutely essential in order to secure a good stand of corn, which is so essential to a good yield . 90 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 38. SHELLING THE EARS ONE AT A TIME. Fig. 38. Fifth Step. Shell each ear separately. Too much importance can not be attached to this step. See Fig 20. Shell each ear in a large shallow pan or on a screen, discarding those ears which show poor vitality or are defective in other ways. It is advisable to separate the corn into three grades according to the size and shape of the kernels— large, medium and small sized grains — and then the proper planter plates can be used for the: different sizes. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 91 Pig. SORTING OUT THE POOR KERNELS, THOSE THAT ARE ROTTEN, BROKEN O < DEFECTIVE. Fig. 39. Sixth step. After picking out the camaged kernels, the corn is then ready for the planter test. When the corn has been tested, graded for the planter and the inferior kernels removed it should then be placed in bags (gunny sacks preferred) half bushel in each and hung up in the attic by wires where there will be thorough circulation of air. 92 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 40. TESTING THE PLANTER. Fig. 40. Seventh step. After the corn has been graded as just described, it is important to make a planter test in order to get the plates best adapted for the different samples. Do not neglect making this test, if the planter fails to drop the desired number of kernels to a hill ninety to ninety-five times out of every hundred, the plates should be ground or filed until they will drop the required number. The plate adjusted to each sample should then be put with that sample to avoid any confusion at planting time. Then place the seed in gunny sacks. Do not put over two-thirds of a bushel in a sack, and then hang it up in a dry, well ventilated place, as in the seed house or in the loft. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 93 Fig. 41. Fig. 41. Eighth step. Calibrating the planter plate so that it drops the required number of kernels per hill. 94 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Fig. 42. Ear No. 3 is too blocky, the tip is a little too full and the butt too much compressed, the kernels are also too thick or blocky. Ear No. 2 has a good form, the tip is excellent, the butt is slightly compressed and the kernels a little too blocky. No. 1 is an excellent ear of corn in every respect. CONCLUSIONS. First: The vitality of germination power of each ear of corn intended for seed, should be carefully tested, and all ears refusing to grow or that show a weak germination should be discarded. This is especially important this year, as over 1,700 samples tested show that the germination of much of the corn is very poor. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 95 Second: Carefully select 50 to 100 of the very choicest ears of your seed corn and plant them on one side of your earliest planted field, and if possible on fall plowed ground so that it will mature early next fall. Third: Do not fail to grade the corn and test the planter thoroughly with the seed you intend to use and stay with it until it will drop regularly the number of kernels required in each hill. Fourth: Do not import seed corn from a distance. Depend upon home grown for the main crop. Fifth: it is very important that all corn intended for use should be harvested not later than October 20th and hung up in a dry and thoroughly ventilated place. Sixth: Select ears of corn for seed which have kernels of as nearly uni- form size and shape as possible, otherwise it will be impossible to secure an even stand with any planter. Seventh: That it is unwise to store seed corn in barrels or boxes, as it will gather moisture, even though it appears to be thoroughly dry. This is especially true during the fall and winter months. Eighth: That cold does not injure the vitality of corn when it is thor- oughly dried and kept dry, but on the other hand, if allowed to gather moisture, freezing will reduce the vitality and may destroy it entirely. Tenth: In case any seed corn is purchased from seedsmen, insist on having it shipped to you in the ear, either in crates or barrels. Eleventh: All of this work, that is, the testing of the vitality, the sort- ing, the shelling and the testing of the planter, should be done before plant- ing time. If put off until the hurry of the spring work is upon us, there is danger that it will not be done at all. STATE AGRICULTURE CONVENTION AT DES MOINES. Wednesday, December 14, 1904. In accordance with section 1657-d, chapter 2 of the 1902 Supplement to the Code of Iowa, which provides as follows: " There shall be held at the Capitol on the second Wednesday of December, 1900, and annually thereafter, a State Agricultural Convention, composed of the State Board of Agriculture, together with the president and secretary of each county or district society entitled to receive aid from the State, or a regularly elected delegate therefrom accredited in writing, who shall be a a resident in the county ; and in counties where there are no agricultural societies the board of supervisors may appoint a delegate who shall be a resident of the county. The president or an accredited representative of the following named associa- tions shall be entitled to membership in the said convention, to wit: The State Horticultural Society, The State Dairy Associa- tion, The Improved Stock Breeder's Association, The Swine Breeders Association, and each farmers' institute organized under the provisions of section sixteen hundred and seventy- five (1675) of the Code. Provided, said farmers' institute has been organized at least one (1) year, and has reported to the State Secretary of Agriculture, not later than November first, through its president and secretary or executive com- mittee, that an institute has been held according to law, the date thereof, the name and post office address of its officers. They shall also furnish the State Secretary of Agri- culture with a copy of program of each institute hereafter held and one or more papers read before the institute, if papers are read. No proxy given by any delegate elected by a farmers' instidute shall be recognized by said convention," the State Agricultural Convention convened in the rooms of the Depart- ment of Agriculture at 9:00 o'clock A. m., with its president, (96) FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 97 W. W. Morrow, in the chair. The meeting was called to order by the president, and on motion of Mr. S. B. Packard the chair appointed the following named delegates as committees on credentials and resolutions : Committee on Credentials — S. B. Packard, Marshall County; F. W. Wirick, Woodbury County; C, M.Clark, Henry County. Committee on Resolutions — E. M. Wentworth, Marshall County; A. L. Ames, Tama County; H. M. Letts, Louisa County. The convention listened to a paper on "Commercial Corn Grading," by Mr. Geo. C. Wells, Secretary of Iowa Grain Dealers' Association. This paper will be found in the Institute department of the Iowa Year Book of Agriculture for 1904, as will also the address of Hon. L. H. Kerrick of Bloomington, Illinois, on "Cattle Feeding." Vice President Cameron was called to the chair, and President Morrow addressed the convention as follows ; which was followed by the reports of the secretary and treasurer : PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. The Fiftieth Annual Iowa State Fair was the greatest and best exhibi- tion in the history of the State. At the first meeting of the State Board, held December 10th, of last year, the advisability of holding a fair the present year was discussed at length, on account of the Exposition being held at St. Louis. It was finally decided to hold a fair, and a committee was appointed to confer with the business men of Des Moines and endeavor to enlist their aid in making it a success. This committee met with the members of the Commercial Exchange, also with the bankers of the city; all of whom were enthusiastic in their pledges to assist in making the fair a success, and it was through their efforts that ' 'Des Moines Day" was made the greatest in attendance in the history of the fair. As President of this Board, I desire to take this opportunity to publicly thank the citizens of Des Moines for their loyalty to the Iowa State Fair, and trust that ''Des Moines Day" in the future may become one of its greatest features. At our last annual meeting we had on hand twenty-nine thousand dollars, fifteen thousand dollars of which was set aside as a reserve fund, to be used in paying premiums in case of bad weather. Eleven thousand dollars has been expended for improvements, including painting of buildings, removing horse barns No's 10, 11 and 12, drainage, brick and cement walks, a woven wire fence on the west and part of the south side of the grounds, and many other improvements, a detailed statement of which will be found in the secretary's report. Fifteen hundred dollars was used in remodeling the old horticultural building into a woman's building, which improvement we are pleased to say was highly appreciated by State Fair visitors. 7 98 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The Thirtieth General Assembly very generously appropriated forty- seven thousand dollars ($47,000) for the erection of the new Agriculture, Horticulture and Dairy building. A building of this kind has long been needed on the grounds, and it was highly spoken of by all visitors at the fair. This building will stand for years to come as a monument to the wis- dom of the Thirtieth General Assembly, to whom we owe our thanks. We have on hand approximately twenty-nine thousand dollars ($29,000), out of which a reserve fund of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) should be kept. Further improvements should be made from time to time, as our financial condition ill permit. New hog barns should be built; brick and cinder walks extended, and a more thorough drainage system should be used. A new power house and pumping station is also needed. A part of these improvements can be made with the funds of the department now on hand and available; the balance should be provided for by the legislature, and an earnest effort made to give our people ample space in which to exhibit the products of the Iowa farm and factory, by providing permanent build- ings of brick and steel construction, in harmony with the stock pavilion and agricultural hall. Fakirs and immoral shows are a thing of the past with the Iowa State Fair, and it should be the aim of all future members of this board to conduct its affairs on such a high plane as will meet with the approval of our intelli- gent and law-abiding citizens. REPORT OF SECRETARY FOR THE YEAR 1904. J. C. SIMPSON, DES MOINES, IOWA. Mr. President, Gentlemen of the Convention and Visiting Friends — It is not my desire in submitting this, my annual report, to make it of undue length, thereby exhausting your patience, but will ask your forbearance for a short time, while I endeavor to outline as briefly as possible the affairs of the Department of Agriculture, under whose auspices the Iowa State Fair is held, since the closing of our fiscal year, November 30, 1903. In referring to former reports of this department and the Iowa State Fair, it is noted that universally the statement has been made ' 'that the fair just closed has been the most successful in its history." While this is true of the past, I can see no reason for changing the statement at this time. The 1904 fair was a success; more so than any of its predecessors. This, from a financial standpoint, as well as the number and quality of its exhibits, which were somewhat lighter in the horse and machinery departments, but in all others were as good, if not better, than ever before. Our receipts this year were about six thousand dollars more than last, and six thousand five hundred dollars more than the year before; while our net balance after paying all expenses and premiums was about the same. This, on account of additional expense for attractions and premiums. Our attractions alone costing five thousand dollars more than last year; one thousand six hundred dollars being for the night show, and three thousand four hundred dollars for Dan Patch. To this extra effort in providing star attractions we attribute the success of the fair. Following the two seasons FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 99 of partial crop failures in Iowa, and coming in the year of the Exposition at St. Louis, we consider this an excellent showing. The exposition did not keep as many away from the fair as we first antici- pated, notwithstanding the fact that the railway fare from many points in the southern part of the State was less to St. Louis than to Des Moines. However, there were thousands of others who would have attended our fair had they not gone to St. Louis. We have no criticisms to make, nor excuses to offer, as to the attendance and financial outcome of the Iowa State Fair of 1904. There was quite a little discussion in regard to the advisability of holding a fair in 1904, prior to the meeting of the board last December. Those who strongly opposed holding it in the year of the exposition at St. Louis ad- vancing the argument that the result would be the same as that which fol- lowed the holding of the fair in 1893 during the Worlds Fair at Chicago. Those who favored the holding of a fair, would not concede that the failure of the fair of 1893 was wholly due to the holding of a World's Fair in that year, but was due in a great measure to the stringent conditions existing in financial affairs throughout the country at that time. They gave as their opinion, that a successful fair could be held, notwithstanding the exposition at St. Louis. Later developments have shown that they were right in this belief. The matter was argued pro and con quite strenously by the members of the board, but when the vote was taken and showed a majority in favor of the fair, the very best of feeling prevailed, and the individual members expressed themselves as ready and willing to do everything in their power to make the fair a success. The people of Des Moines gave their support as never before. Business men were asked to close their places of business at least one half day, which request was readily granted, and they not only closed their places of busi- ness, but attended the fair and urged all their employes to do so. It has been a number of years since as many Des Moines people were in attendance at the fair at one time as were there on this half holiday. The business men and citizens of Des Moines are to be congratulated for the willingness shown and aid given to the Iowa State Fair of 1904. We sincerely hope that this same spirit will prevail in the future, for it will add much to its future pros- perity. To the press of the State we are also greatly indebted. To them must be given the credit for continually keeping the fair before the people through their columns. It was feared in the early part of the year, that on account of the greater exposition at St. Louis, the press might overlook the Iowa fair. But in this we were happily disappointed, which further demonstrates that Iowa people are always loyal to their institutions. The feeling which so long existed in some of the cities of the State against the Iowa State Fair, because of its location at Des Moines, has apparently died out, and the fair is now receiving the united support of all, which is due and generally accredited our State educational institutions. Should the Iowa State Fair be made a two weeks fair? This question is often asked, and while many good arguments may be offered in favor of the proposition, for myself I am unable to see the necessity for doing so at this time. To analyze the proposition, we must first consider a few of the con- ditions necessary to the holding of a successful fair. First comes the selec- 100 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. tion of dates; they should be chosen for a time when there is the least work in progress upon the Iowa farms, and at a time of the year when the weather conditions are most likely to be favorable. Second, that our exhibits are not divided. This can only be avoided by selecting dates which do not conflict with those of states near by, for should Iowa and Minnesota hold fairs on the same dates it would certainly divide our exhibit, and make the fair less attractive and educational. To avoid this conflict in dates, there is an association formed among the leading fairs and expositions on the continent, which meets annually in Chicago. At these meetings dates are arranged as near as possible so that adjoining states do not have their fair during the same week. No western State fair belonging to this associa- tion is holding more than one week fair. It is admitted by all fair managers, that there is not to exceed three or possibly four weeks in the fair season that are at all desirable from which to select dates. If we were to hold a two weeks' fair, we would certainly conflict with dates of some of the surrounding states. This would lessen our exhibit, and have a tendency to lessen our attendance as well. We are now holding nominally a five days' fair, with an aggregate attendance the past season of about one hundred and twenty-five thousand for five days, or an average daily attendance of twenty-five thousand. Two- thirds, if not more, of these visitors attend our fair on two days, Tuesday and Wednesday or Wednesday and Thursday, as the case may be, and this crowd is handled with but little inconvenience. With an enlarged grand stand that would seat from ten to fifteen thousand people, and the present transportation facilities for getting to and from the grounds, there would be no inconvenience, whatever, in taking care of a crowd of this size on any day of the fair. Now, it seems to me, what we want more than a two weeks' fair, would be to make an effort to increase this average daily attend- ance to fifty thousand. I know some of you will say that it is useless to try to make a good day in attendance out of Monday and Friday of the fair; that it has been tried in the past and was a failure. You will remember the time, not many years ago, when it was said that clover could not be grown in northern Iowa. It had been tried repeatedly and was a failure; there was trouble in getting a good stand, and it would freeze out during the long cold winters. Never- theless the farmers kept at it until they have demonstrated that as good clover, and as much of it, can be grown in northern Iowa as in the south- ern part of the State. So it is with the attendance at our State fair. We should make an effort to have five good days of attendance, in place of two or three, and keep at it until it is demonstrated that a good attendance can be had on each of the five days. To do this we must have the co-operation of the railroads, and so arrange the program that one day has as many attractions as the other, and that nothing will be missed by attending the fair on Monday or Friday. I believe this to be a better solution for increas- ing the attendance at our annual State fairs, than by holding it for two weeks, and it would certainly be less expensive and would bring out a bet- ter exhibit. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 101 IMPROVEMENTS MADE ON THE STATE FAIR GROUNDS IN 1904. Many needed improvements and changes were made upon the fair grounds the past season, the most conspicuous being the erection of the agri- cultural, horticultural and dairy exhibit building, for which an appropri- ation of $47,000 was made by the Thirtieth General Assembly. The size of this building is 100 by 300 feet, with an added width of 33 feet between the two dome entrances on the front side. It has a floor space of approxi- mately 32,000 square feet, being about one-fourth greater than the combined floor space of the three buildings formerly occupied by these depart- ments. The cost of this building, together with the changes and other work necessary to prepare the site, has been $48,248.71. But very little work of a permanent nature was done on the interior of the building. Our plans and specifications did not call for any arrangement for the interior, for the reason it was deemed advisable to first use the building, when a better idea could be formed as to what was needed. However, the plans did call for a cement floor, which was not put in for two reasons; first of which was that the ground being filled it was thought best to let it settle suf- ficiently before putting down the floor, and second being the lack of time and funds available before the beginning of the fair. If the exhibits in these departments continue to increase in the future, as the display this year would indicate, it will not be long before provision will have to be made for a separate dairy building, leaving this building for the agricultural and horticultural displays. By removing the horticultural department to the new building we were able to carry out our original plans for providing a woman's building upon the grounds. It has been the earnest desire of the board for some time that provision be made whereby a suitable building could be arranged as a rest- ing place for the women and children attending the fair. This building is delightfully situated upon the side of the hill, overlooking the entire west part of the grounds. It is far enough removed from the main part of the grounds to be entirely free from dust and noise, and at the same time within easy walking distance. The funds available for this purpose would not permit of any extensive remodeling of the building this year, but enough was accomplished to make it an ideal resting place. A veranda was built along the entire west front, being 106 feet long by 16 feet wide. A floor was put down in the building, and a couple of rooms finished; one for the matron in charge, the other for an emergency hospital room. This hospital room was furnished with the regulation hospital cots and bedding. The report of Dr. Granville N. Ryan, whose assistant was in attendance at the building during the days of the fair, show thirty cases cared for in the hos- pital; two maior cases temporarily cared for; ten accident cases, and seven- teen calls made on different parts of the grounds; making a total of fifty- seven cases cared for during the week. Doctor Ryan furthersays in his report, that on two or three different occasions there were not cots enough, and a number of very sick women could not receive the proper attention on this account. He recommends for another year, that two wards be provided with at least eighty cots. By the Doctor's report it can readily be seen the h'spital feature in connection with the building was highly appreciated. It should be understood that this building is not to be a meeting place for 102 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. womens' clubs, but a 7'ss ting- place for women and children. The hospital room, of course, being open temporarily for all who may need medical assistance, and for this reason, at least one more room should be provided the coming year; thus giving a room for the ladies and one for the men. As fast as available more seats and rocking chairs should be provided for this building. The matron in charge of the building was there day and night from be- ginning to close of the fair. She provided herself with a number of simple remedies, that she might be able to care for the less serious cases needing attention. The poultry department was moved to the building formerly occupied by the agricultural display. This building makes an ideal one in which to ex- hibit poultry, it being large, roomy, well ventilated and lighted. I doubt if there is its equal on any State fair grounds. The building formerly occupied by the dairy department was remodeled into a first class dining hall. Arrangements were made whereby about three hundred people could be seated at one time, and the meals and ser- vice was as good as will be found in many so-called first class hotels and restaurants. There is no question but that provision should be made for more dining halls of this class on the fair grounds, and the shutting out of some of the less desirable ones. After talking with representatives from many of the leading State fairs, and from my own observation, I am satis- fied this is the best method to pursue in the future with the dining hall privileges upon the State fair grounds. About eleven hundred dollars was spent the past year in improving the drainage system. The rain during the fair of 1903 taught us that some pro- vision must be made to take care of the water from the roof of the stock pavilion. With the additional roof surface of the new agricultural building we were satisfied that should a heavy rain fall during the fair, that part of the grounds would be flooded, if provision was not made to care for this water. A large storm sewer was laid from the south line of the fair grounds along Rock Island avenue to the north past the stock pavilion, and to the north end of the agricultural building, with connections from the east side of these buildings. By doing this it was possible to connect all down spouts with the sewer. Several catch-basins were also put in at different points along the sewer at street intersections. The open ditch running through the flat in the west part of the grounds was deepened and widened, the city cleaning it out below the grounds. This ditch has been the main drainage outlet for a vast territory to the northwest of the fair grounds, and has never been of sufficient size to carry off the water in a wet season. The city is now at work constructing a large open ditch about four blocks west of the grounds, and this, together with the ditch running through the grounds should prevent any trouble from overflows in the future. Additional storm sewers and drainage facilities should be pro- vided as fast as the funds of the department will permit. A heav5^ rainfall one night about four weeks previous to the opening day of the fair washed most of the top-dressing off the race track, leaving it in very bad shape. The entire surface of the track had to be resoiled, which was done at an expenditure of about $575, We have now one of the fastest and best half-mile tracks in the west. / FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 103 A large number of minor improvements were made, such as placing cin- ders on the streets, painting, electrical work, offices for the superintendents of agricultureand horticulture, water supply, fencing, removingand rebuilding several horse barns, etc. All of these improvements, together with the repairs necessary to make buildings and grounds ready for the fair cost a considerable sum of money. 1 believe that in the future the board should give more attention than they have in the past, toward beautifying the grounds. There is nothing that impresses a visitor more, than the neat appearance of the grounds. I am aware that it takes money to make all these improvements, but as it is available the streets should be curbed and guttered. This is made necessary from the fact that all the water from the hills on the east part of the grounds runs down through the streets on the flat part. At times this water comes in such volumes as to leave the streets in a wretched condition, it being im- possible to keep them from washing so long as they are not curbed and gut- tered. If the streets have a neat, well-kept appearance, it will add much to the beauty of the grounds. Provision should also be made for keeping the paper picked up during the fair. This work could be simplified by having a rule forbidding the distribution of circulars and bills over the grounds. This rule has been adopted by the Minnesota State Fair Managers, and is rigidly enforced. It would in no way interfere with the exhibitor, or forbid him from handing out literature or circulars from his booth or place of exhibit. Again, I believe it would be a good idea to not allow melons to be sold on the grounds, other than from a regular dining hall or lunch stand, or from a building especially provided for that purpose. It is impossible to keen these melon rinds cleaned up , so long as it is permitted to peddle melons promiscuously over the grounds. Much could be added to the appearance of the grounds by replacing the balance of the high tight board fence along the front, with a neat woven wire fence, such as as was put up this year between Grand Avenue and the street car entrance. This would also aid the guards in policing the fence. The entrances should be remodeled, which would add materially to the gen- eral effect. I speak of these matters here to call the attention of the board to the minor details, which are often overlooked for the more important improve- ments which are made. COUNTY AND DISTRICT FAIR ASSOCIATIONS. The reports from the county and district fair associations for the past year show, that they have been generally successful. Seventy-nine reports were received this year, as against seventy-one for the year 1903. Their financial statements show a small increase in the aggregate receipts and premiums paid; also in balances on hand at time of making report. They also show quite an increase in amounts expended for permanent improve- ments on their grounds during the past year. Taken as a whole the re- ports show a maiority of the county and district fairs as being in a good live, healthy condition. I believe more of the officers of these county and district fairs should at- tend the fair secretaries' meeting, which is held in this city annually during the week of the Farmers' Institute and Agricultural Convention. They 104 IOWA DEPVRTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. would gather many good practical ideas, which would help them in their work. I know that the ofl&cers of the State Department of Agriculture are" greatly benefited by their annual visit to the meeting of the Association of American Fairs and Expositions. It is there we gather many new ideas, or find the weak points in methods we have alrea'iy in vogue. SHALL THERE BE A CENTRAL ORGANIZATION FOR COUNTY FARMERS' INSTITUTES. There has been a good deal of discussion through the papers and at dif- ferent meetings for the past few years, along the line whether a central or- ganization for the farmers' institutes should be established. I think you will all agree with me, that there should at least be a meeting once a year, which would bring together the ofi&cers, and others interested in county in- stitute work. The only question or argument has been, is to what power this organization should have over the local institute. I have never favored a plan which would take from the local institute their right to select their own dates and speakers. However, I believe a plan could be adopted which would bring about more unison in the institute work. I have in mind a plan of this kind: That a committee be appointed who, so far as the local institute is concerned, would have advisatory power only. They could meet once or twice a year, or as often as necessary. It would be their duty to block out the State in districts, and try and bring about an arrange- ment whereby the counties of a certain district would arrange their dates not to conflict. Provisions should also be made to get the names and ad- dresses of institute workers, giving the subject of lecture they were prepared to talk upon. Then the committee could prepare a number of subjects which would aid the local officers or committee in making out their pro- gram. These subjects, the name and address of the workers and the dates of the institutes could be published in pamphlet form to be sent out upon request. This work could all be done through the office of the Department of Agriculture with the help of an extra clerk, which would have to be pro- vided for by the legislature. I believe some plan should be devised whereby the State Farmers' Insti- tute, Improved Stock Breeders, Swine Breeders, Horticultural Society and meeting of the institute officers would be held in Des Moines during the same week. If this could be done the best speakers in the country could be secured at a much less expense than to bring them here for each of the several meetings. Attached to, and made a part of this report, is a complete statement showing the financial condition of the department for the fiscal 3'ear ending December 1, 1904. Following is a statement of moneys coming into my hands as secretary, and deposited with the treasurer, for which I hold receipts: From S rate appropriation for Agricultural building . .. ... $47,000.00 From forage department 1,365.75 From speed entries 4,127.50 From suspension collected for American Trotting Association 44 . 00 From insurance loss 38. 10 From exhibitors tickets 1,706.00 From scholarship contest 26.00 From annual State appropriation for insurance, improvements and repairs 1 , 000 . 00 Frominterest 1,079.50 Total $56,386 85 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART I. 105 SECRETARY'S ACCOUNT OF GENERAL EXPENSE. For the Fiscal Year Ending November SO, IQOU. Bill of 1903 (old), paid 1904 $ 250.24 Express, telegraph and telephone 126. 74 Agricultural, horticultural and dairy building 48,248.71 Other improvements for 1904 : Sewer and drainage % 1,078.90 Rebuilding horse barns 1,718.60 Painting 511.22 Sidewalks 455.97 Track improvements 578.83 Planting trees '. 95.52 Womans' building 1,500.00 Roofs on sheep barns 254. 04 Electrical work 412. 53 Poultry house 174.62 Dining halls 256.67 Fence— high woven wire 369. 72 Streets 229. 53 Ofllce for superintendent of agriculture and horticulture 200. 00 Water supply 275.00 Secretary's and treasurer's ofl&ce 48.11 Lumber— miscellaneous 409. 17 Hardware 348.05 Glass 88.51 Horse 155.92 Brick 30.20 Wagon 42. 00 Cement 29.40 Cost of labor on miscellaneous improvements 1, 068. 58 Miscellaneous improvements ^ 1,061.31- 11,392.40 Advertising 2,843.31 Annual convention 1903 579. 13 Printing and supplies for members 1, .591. 76 Year book illustrations 12. 20 Committee on pure food 79. 15 Forage department 1,5-30.61 Salary superintendent fair grounds 800. 00 Clerical servicer— secretary's office 511.80 Miscellaneous expense 2, 161 . 59 Annual dues American Trotting Association 119.00 Insurance 1,457.71 Cattle department 462. 2J Electrical department 218. 76 Attractions 9,933.70 Decorating 211.50 Music 1,092.55 Ticket department 242.80 Privilege department 227.25 Gate department 717.90 Treasury department 623.80 Police department 1,298.50 Marshals 111.70 Horse department 213.55 Speed department 286. 35 Swine department 250.88 Sheep and poultry department 307. 60 Machinery department 216,20 Agricultural department 552.01 Dairy department 264. 35 Horticultural department 261.90 106 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Art department 563. 85 President's department 84. 20 Womans' building 24.50 Scavenger work 146.50 Special premiums 32.00 Auditing committee meeting 54.50 Program soldiers' day 79. 35 Annual conventioa 1904 .... 17.00 Total $ 91,321.96 SECRETARY'S ACCOUNT WITH G. D. ELLYSON, TREASURER, For the Fiscal Year Ending November SO, 190U. RECEIPTS. DR. CR. To cash on hand December 1, 1903 I 28,963.11 From W. C. Brown, superintendent horse department 231.00 Prom S . S. Packard, superintendent cattle department 786. 50 From R. S. Johnston, superintendent swine department 1,123.60 From H. L.Pike, superintendent sheep and poultry department , . 219.00 From John Ledgerwood, superintendent machinery department.. 640.60 From R. T. St. John, superintendent agricultural department 287.50 PromH. R. Wright, superintendent dairy department 434.70 From W. J. Wragg, superintendent horticultural department 40.00 From M. Mc Donald, superintendent art department 982. 71 From Jas. H. Deemer, superintendent of grounds 1,504.43 From John Cownie, superintendent electrical department 111.55 From Donald Hill, chief of police .. . 17.60 From J. W. Wadsworth, superintendent privileges 5,412.50 From J. C. Simpson, secretary's department 56, 3S6 85 Ticketsales 48,543.65 DISBURSEMENTS. By expense warrants paid : 1903issue $ 2.25 1904issue 91,321.96 By premium warrants paid : 1903 and former years 57. 58 1904is3ue 24,615.57 Interest in premium warrants ' .71 To cash on hand November 30, 1904 29,657.23 Total $ 145,685.30 $ 145,685.30 Profit and Loss November 30, 1904 : By cash on hand I 29,657 23 To outstanding warrants.. 56.36 To credit account November 30, 1904 $ 29, 600. 78 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 107 STATEMENT OP RECEIPTS FOR FAIR OF 1904 AS COMPARED WITH THE PRE CEDING YEAR. From Source Derived. 1908 1904 Increa!-e. Decrease. Gate receipts « 36,010.36 2,577.10 511.25 2,724.00 21.00 22,185.64 $ 63,979.35 $ 36,366.00 6,538.15 799. 50 4,478.75 361. 25 21,178.54 $ 355.64 3,963.05 288.25 1, 754. 75 340.25 Day aniphitheater receipts. .. Evening admissions . . Evening amphitheater receipts Quarter stretch tickets From all other sources not including .f 47, 000 State appropriation for agricultural build- ing $ 957. iO $ 69,722.19 68,979.85 $ 6, 699. 94 957.10 $ 957. 10 Totals $ 5,742 84 S 5. 742. 84 STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS CHARGED TO FAIR OP 1904. Actual receipts received from fair of 1904 $ 66, 138. 26 Actual expenses charged to 1904 fair $ 28, 735. 66 Premiums awarded 1904 fair 24.539.68— 58,275.34 Net profit from fair of 1904 . S 12,862.92 STATEMENT OF PREMIUMS PAID AT FAIR OP 1904. Department A, Horses $ 1,750.00 Departments, Speed 6,435.00 Department C, Cattle 5,797.00 Department D, Swine , 1,619.67 Department E, Sheep ; 1,467.00 Department F, Poultry 732.60 Department H, Agriculture 1,798.94 DepartmentJ, Pantry 681.00 Department K, Dairy 698.57 Department L, Fruits 546.00 Department M, Flowers 618.00 Department N, Pine Arts 2, 185. 00 SPECIALS : Scholarship Iowa State College 200. 00 Photos 15.00 Total premiums paid at fair of 1904 $24,539.68 Premiums paid on mature corn, December meeting, 1903 162.00 Total premiums paid November 30, 1903 to November 30, 1904 .$24, MONEY EXPENDED FOR PERMANENT IMPROVEMENTS UPON THE IOWA STATE FAIR GROUNDS DURING THE PAST PI YE YEAR9 OUT OF RECEIPTS RECEIVED AT THE ANNUAL STATE PAIRS AND S TATE APPRO- PRIATIONS RECEIVED FOR SPECIFIED BUILDINGS. EXPENDITURES TROM FAIR RECEIPTS. 1900 .$8,115.59 1901 18,878.73 1902 26,457.12 1908 17,855.77 1904 12,641.11—$ 78,448, State appropriation for stock pavilion 37, 000. 00 State appropriation for agricultural building 47, 000. CO Total. 84, 000. 00 $ 162,448.32 108 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. PREMIUMS PATD AT EACH ANNUAL STATE FAIR FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS. 1900 « 18,554.00 1901 18, 567. CO 1902 21,736.31 1903 23,813.00 1904 24,539.68 Total $107,209.99 REPORT OF TREASURER FOR THE YEAR 1904. CD. Ellyso?i, Des Moines^ Iowa. Following is the report of your treasurer for the year 1904: Receipis. Cash on hand December 1, 1908 $ 28,963.11 Gate receipts 84,97T.OO Amphitheater receipts 6,588. 15 Quarter stretch receipts 361.25 Evening receipts 799.50 Evening amphitheater receipts 4,478.75 Special tickets 997. 00 Campers 892. 00 Superintendent of privileges 5,412.50 Superintendent of horticulture 40.00 Superintendent of agriculture 287.50 Superintendent of swine 1,123.60 Superintendent of sheep and poultry 219.00 Superintendent of horses 231.00 Superintendent of machinery 640.60 Superintendent of electric light 111.55 Superintendent of speed 1,854.50 Superintendent of dairy 484. 70 Superintendent of fine arts 982.71 Superintendent of grounds 1, 504. 43 Superintendent of cattle 786.50 Secretary 5,952.85 Chief of police 17.60 Interest 1.079.50 State appropriation 48,000.00 Total ,. ?145,685.30 Disi:)ursements. Expense warrants ? 91,324.21 Premium warrants 24, 708. 86 Balance 29,657.23 Total $ 145,685.30 On motion of Mr. L. H. Pickard of Shelby county, the address of the president and reports of the secretary and treas- urer was referred to a committee appointed by the chair, as fol- lows : L. H. Pickard, Shelby county : T. W. Purcell, Franklin county, and J. F. Morris, of Sioux county. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK PART I. 109 On motion the convention adjourned to meet at 1 :30 o'clock p. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention met at 1:30 P. m., pursuant to adjournment, with President Morrow in the chair. Committee on credentials submitted the following report, and on motion of Capt. A. Head, of Jefferson county, the report was adopted and the delegates named therein entitled to a seat in the convention. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS, DELEGATES TO AGRICULTURAL CONVENTION, 1904. Adair County Agricultural Society — J. M. Wilson, Menlo. Bremer County— E. M. Reeves, Waverly. Buena Vista County Agricultural Society — C. E. Cameron, Alta. Black Hawk County Agricultural Society, La Porte City District— B. L. Manwell, La Porte City. Cass County— W. C. Williams, Atlantic. Cerro Gordo County — W. C. Clark, Mason City. Clayton County Agricultural Society — J. C. Flenniker, Strawberry Point. Dallas County Agricultural Society — M. J. Wragg, Waukee. Davis County Agricultural Society — T. D. Doke, Bloomfield, Delaware County Agricultural Society— H. R. Wright. Floyd County Agricultural Society— John W. Waller, Charles City. Franklin County Agricultural Society— T. W. Purcell, Hampton. Greene County — Albert Head, Jefferson. Guthrie County Agricultural Society — Alex Grissell, Guthrie Center. Hamilton County— Burt F. Keltz, Webster City. Hancock County Agricultural Society— F. B. Rogers, Britt. Hardin County Agricultural Society— H. S. Martin, Eldora. Henry County Agricultural Society— C. M. Clark, Mt. Pleasant. Howard County — A. J. Wells, Riceville. Humboldt County Agricultural Society— L. C. Trauger, Livermore. Iowa County — W. F. Hutton, Holstein. Iowa County Agricultural Society, Williamsburg District— F. O, Har- rington, Williamsburg. Jackson County Agricultural Society — C. W. Phillips, Maquoketa. Jasper County Agricultural Society — C. W. Campbell, Newton. Jefferson County Agricultural Society— J. P. Manatrey, Fairfield. Keokuk County Agricultural Society, What Cheer District — T. C. Legoe, What Cheer. Kossuth County Agricultural Society— J. W. Wadsworth, Algona. Lucas County — W. M. Householder, Chariton. Louisa County Agricultural Society— R. S. Johnston, Columbus Junction. Louisa County Agricultural Society, Columbus Junction District — R. S. 110 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Johnston, Columbus Junction. Mahaska County Agricultural Society— New Sharon District— W. C. Burrell, Oskaloosa. Marion County Agricultural Society — Lake Prairie District— Chas. Porter, Pella. Mitchell County— R. T. St. John, Kiceville. Monona County— Harold Pike, Whiting. Muscatine County Agricultural Society— Union District— Ed. Fogg, West Liberty. Madison County Agricultural Society— T. J. Hudson, Winterset. O'Brien County Agricultural Society— R. C. Jordan, Sutherland. Poweshiek County Agricultural Society — Central at Malcom — James Nowak, Malcom. Scott County — Wesley Greene, Davenport. Shelby County Agricultural Society — L. H. Pickard, Harlan. Story County Agricultural Society— H. B. Chaddick, Nevada. Sioux County Agricultural Society— J. F. Morris, Ireton. Sioux County Agricultural Society — Rock Valley District — L. M. Black, Ireton. Taylor County Agricultural Society — Geo. Van Houten, Lenox. Union County — W. W. Morrow, Afton. Washington County— D. J. Palmer, Washington. Winnebago County Agricultural Society — J. A. Peters, Forest City. Winnebago County Agricultural Society— Buffalo Center District— J. A. Peters, Forest City. Winneshiek County Agricultural Society — Thos. Graham, Decorah. Woodbury County — F. L. Wirick, Sioux City. Wright County Agricultural Society — W. C. Brown, Clarion. FARMERS' INSTITUTES. Benton County — Fred. McCuUoch, Belle Plains. Black Hawk County— A. E. Glenny, Waterloo. Calhoun County — Henry Parsons, Rockwell City. Franklin County— T. W. Purcell, Hampton. Grundy County— E. S. King, Grundy Center. Hancock County— C. H. Nelson, Britt. Ida County— S. M. Corrie, Ida Grove. JefiEerson County — J. P. Manatrey, Fairfield. Keokuk County — Capt. E. Miller, Sigourney. Madison County — H. A. Mueller, Winterset. Mahaska County— A. Roe, Oskaloosa. Monona County— R. W. Cassidy, Whiting. Story County— C. W. Mills, Ames. Union County— W. W. Morrow, Afton. Winnebago County— Eugene Secor, Forest City. Wright County— W. C. Brown, Clarion. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. Ill SOCIETIES AND ASSOCIATIONS. State Horticultural Society — P. F. Kinnie, Storm Lake. State Dairy Association — S. B. Shilling, Mason City. Improved Swine Breeders' Association— E. M. Wentworth, State Center. STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. BX OFFICIO. Governor of State— Hon. A. B. Cummins, Des Moines. President Iowa State College— Dr. A. B. Storms, Ames. State Dairy Commissioner— H. R. Wright, Des Moines. State Veterinarian— P. O. Koto, Forest City. OFFICERS . President— W. W. Morrow, Afton. Vice-President -C. E. Cameron, Alta. Secretary — John C. Simpson, Knoxville. Treasurer— G. D. EUyson. Des Moines. DISTRICT MEMBERS. First — R. S. Johnston, Columbus Junction. Second— C. W. Phillips, Maquoketa. Third— W. C. Brown, Clarion. Fourth— R. T. St. John, Riceville. Fifth— S. B. Packard, Marshalltown. Sixth— T. C. Legoe, What Cheer. Seventh — M. J. Wragg, Waukee. Eighth — John Ledgerwood, Leon. Ninth — M. McDonald, Bayard. Tenth— J. W. Wadsworth, Algona. Eleventh— H. L. Pike, Whiting. S. B. Packard, F. L. WiRICK, C. M. Clark, Committee. The committee on resolutions made the following report, and on motion same were adopted and the secretary instructed to send a copy to each of the Iowa members in Congress : REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS. Resolved, That we congratulate the oflficers of the Iowa State Depart- ment of Agriculture upon their very successful administration of every department of their work. The fair of 1904 was not only notable for the quantity and quality of exhibits, but equally commendable because of the elimination of fakirs and other objectionable features. We further desire to express our appreciation of the programme prepared for the State Institute meeting, and congratulate the gentlemen who so ably responded thereto. Our thanks aie especially due to Messrs. Kerrick and Lovejoy, of our sister State, for their valued assistance. 112 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Resolved, That we heartily endorse the position ot President Roosevelt with reference to the necessity of giving increased power to the Interstate Commerce Commission. The interest of the farmers and stock raisers of Iowa demand the early enactment of a law which will give the Commission power to not only declare a rate unreasonable and unjust, when it has been shown to be such after a full and open hearing, but to fix a rate which will be reasonable and just, said rate to become effective and remain in force unless set aside by the courts. We respectfully urge the Senators and Congressmen representing the State of Iowa to give the Quarles-Cooper bill their united and earnest support. E. M. Wentworth, A. L. Ames, H. M. Letts, Committee. The committee on the address of the president and reports of the secretary and treasurer made the following report, and on motion same was adopted : REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON ADDRESS OP PRESIDENT AND REPORTS OF SECRETARY AND TREASURER. Your committee, to whom was referred the president's address and reports of the secretary and treasurer, desire to report: We feel gratified by the good showing made by the department during the past year, and the address and reports of its officers show, and they per- sonally deserve a vote of thanks for the great success of the Iowa State Fair of 1904. Not only was the fair one of the best in the country, in the matter of exhibits and attractions and general knowledge gained, but in a financial way the department has made such progress as is very gratifying to the people of the State. In addition to the expenditure of large sums of money for improvements on the State Fair grounds during the past few years, the department has paid off a twenty-five or thirty thousand-dollar debt, and now have a surplus of approximately thirty thousand dollars in the treasury. L. H. PiCKARD, J. F, Morris, T. W. PURCELL, Committee. On motion of Mr. T. W. Purcell the convention proceeded to the election of the following officers of the State Board of Agri- culture for terms of one year each, and for district members for terms of two years each : President, Vice-president. Member from the Second district. " " Fourth " Sixth •" " •• Eighth .. Tenth FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART K 113 Mr. E. M. Wentworth, of Marshall county, placed in nomina- tion for president of the State Board of Agriculture, Hon.W.W. Morrow, of Union county, to succeed himself, and moved that if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. Morrow. Motion prevailed. The secretary so cast the vote and Mr. Morrow was declared duly elected as president of the State Board of Agriculture for the ensuing year. Hon. C. F. Curtiss, of Story county, placed in nomination for the office of vice-president Mr. C. E. Cameron, of Buena Vista county, to succeed himself, and moved if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unani- mous vote of the convention for Mr. Cameron.' Motion pre- vailed. The secretary so cast the vote and Mr. Cameron was declared duly elected as vice-president of the State Board of Agriculture for the ensuing year. Mr. Ed Fogg, of Muscatine county, placed in nomination for member of the board from the Second district Mr. C. W. Phil- lips, of Jackson county, to succeed himself, and moved if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. Phillips. Motion prevailed. The secretary so cast the vote and Mr. Phil- lips was declared duly elected as member of the State Board of Agriculture from the Second district for a term of two years. Mr. M. McDonald, of Guthrie county, placed in nomination for member of the board from the Fourth district Mr. R. T. St. John, of Mitchell county, to succeed himself, and moved that if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. St. John. Motion prevailed. The secretary so cast the vote and Mr. St. John was declared duly elected as member of the State Board of Agriculture from the Fourth district for a term of two years. Mr. T. D.'Doke, of Davis county, placed in nomination for member of the board from the Sixth district Mr. T. C. Legoe, of Keokuk county, to succeed himself, and moved that if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. Legoe. Motion prevailed. The secretary so cast the vote and Mr. Legoe was declared duly elected as member of the State Board of Agricul- ture from the Sixth district for a term of two years . Mr. T. J. Hudson, of Madison county, placed in nomination for member of the board from the Eighth district, Mr. John 8 114 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Ledgerwood, of Decatur county, to succeed himself, and moved that if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. Ledgerwood. Motion prevailed. The secretary so cast the- vote and Mr. Ledgerwood was declared duly elected as member of-the State Board of Agriculture from the Eighth district for a term of two years . Mr. Eugene Secor, of Winnebago county, placed in nomination for member of the board from the '^enth district, Mr. O. A. Olson, of Winnebago county, to succeed Mr. J. W. Wadsworth, of Kossuth county, which motion was seconded by Mr. Wadsworth, and Mr. Secor moved that if there were no other nominations that the secretary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of the convention for Mr. Olson. Motion prevailed. The secre- tary so cast the vote and Mr. Olson was declared duly elected as member of the State Board of Agriculture from the Tenth district for a term of two years . Mr. T. W. Purcell moved that if there was no other business that the convention be adjourned. Motion prevailed and the president declared the convention adjourned. J. C. Simpson, Secretary. A prize "Porker," Iowa State Fair, 1904. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 115 MEETING OF THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE DECEMBER, 1904. Thursday Morning, December 15, 1904. Meeting called to order at 9:00 o'clock A. M., and on roll call the following members were found to be present : Morrow, Cameron, Simpson, Johnston, Phillips, Brown, St. John, Pack- ard, Legoe, Wragg, Ledgerwood, McDonald, Pike and Olson. Mr. H. L. Bosquet, deputy clerk of the supreme court, was called in and administered the oath of office to the following newly elected officers and members of the board: W.W. Morrow as president, C. E. Cameron as vice-president, C. W. Phillips member from the Second district, R. T. St. John member from the Fourth district, T. C. Legoe member from the Sixth district, John Ledgerwood member from the Eighth district and O. A. Olson member from the Tenth district. Mr. Johnston placed in nomination for secretary Mr. J C. Simpson to succeed himself, which motion was seconded by Mr. Cameron and prevailing the president declared Mr. Simpson duly elected as secretary of the State Board of Agriculture for the ensuing year. Mr. St. John placed in nomination for treasurer Mr. G. D. Ellyson to succeed himself and moved that the salary be fixed at $100 per year. Motion prevailed, and the president declared Mr. Ellyson duly elected as treasurer of the State Board of Agriculture lor the ensuing year. Mr. Packard moved that the reading of the minutes of the previous meeting be dispensed with. Motion prevailed. Mr. Phillips moved that Mr. James H. Deemer be elected as superintendent of grounds for the ensuing year, to succeed himself, at a salary of $900 per year. Motion prevailed. Mr. Phillips moved that Mr. Garth C. Fuller be elected as assistant secretary for the ensuing year, to succeed himself, at a salary of $75 per month. Motion prevailed. Mr. Cameron moved that the dates for the Iowa State Fair of 1905 be fixed for August 25th to September 1st, inclusive. Motion prevailed. 116 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The secretary presented petition from the exhibitors of corn at the State Institute meeting, requesting that they be permitted to retain corn placed on exhibit. On motion of Mr. Packard petition was granted. Mr. Ledgerwood moved that the executive committee be instructed to make assignments of the superintendents for the fair of 1905 and report same to the board Friday morning. Motion prevailed. On motion of Mr. Packard the board adjourned to meet at 2:00o'clock p. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. Board met at 2:00 p. m., pursuant to adjournment, with all members present. A committee from the Iowa Swine Breeders' Association appeared before the board and asked that certain privileges be granted them, and that changes be made in the swine depart- ment of the premium list for the fair of 1905. Mr. Packard moved that the chair appoint a committee of three, with himself as chairman, to meet with like committees from the Iowa Grain Dealers' Association and Iowa Corn Dealers' Association, to talk over the advisability of having a State grain and corn exhibition. The president appointed on the committee Messrs. Packard and St. John. Mr. Johnston moved that the executive committee, together with the superintendent of privileges, be instructed to have a plat made of the space on the grounds used for privileges, and that they arrange a schedule of prices on same, and leave it in the office of the secretary until such time as the superintendent of privileges comes to Des Moines to stay permanently 'until after the fair. Motion prevailed. Mr. Wragg moved that the letting of all privileges in build- ings be delegated to the superintendent of privileges, with the understanding that no concession is to be sold in a building without the consent of the superintendent in charge. Motion prevailed. Mr. Cameron moved that no circulars or bills be permitted to be distributed over the State Fair Grounds, this in no case to apply to literature handed out by exhibitors at their places of exhibit. Motion prevailed. Mr. McDonald moved that the executive committee be in- structed to have the Art Building moved from its present site. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 117 to a location to be decided upon by the committee. Motion prevailed. Mr. Johnston moved that the board be adjourned until 9 :00 o'clock Friday morning. Friday Morning, December 16, 1904. Board met at 9:00 o'clock A. M., pursuant to adjournment, with President Morrow in the chair, and upon roll call the fol- lowing members were found to be present: Morrow, Cameron, Simpson, EUyson, Johnston, Phillips, Brown, St. John, Legoe, Packard, Ledgerwood, Wragg, McDonald, Olson and Pike. Minutes of Thursday's session of the board were read and approved. Mr. Brown moved that Mr. Donald Hill of Storm Lake be selected as chief of police for the fair of 1905. Motion pre- vailed. Mr. McDonald moved that Mr. T. D. Doke of Bloomfield be selected as chief marshal for the fair of 1905. Motion pre- vailed. Mr. Legoe moved that Mr. T. J. Hudson of Winterset, Mr. C. M. Akes of Leon and Mr. J. R. Waller of Rockford be selected as assistant marshals for the fair of 1905. Motion prevailed. The secretary presented papers and bills in regard to the two boys who were injured at the fair of 1904, and on motion of Mr. Packard the matter was referred to the executive committee, with power to act. Mr. McDonald moved that fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) of the money now in the hands of the treasurer be set aside as a reserve fund. Motion prevailed. On motion of Mr. Cameron the following rule was adopted, same to apply to all classes in the live stock departments : "Where there is but one exhibit in a ring one premium only may be awarded; where two, two premiums only may be awarded; and where three or more, all premiums may be awarded." Mr. Johnston moved that Class No. 2 as appearing in the premium list of 1904 be stricken out. Motion prevailed. Mr. Brown moved that the arrangement of the speed pro- gramme for the fair of 1905 be delegated to the executive com- mittee. Motion prevailed. A committee appeared before the board and had a talk further in regard to holding a State grain and corn show, and 118 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. asked that a committee of three be appointed to consider the matter with a hke committee from the Grain Dealers' Associa- tion. The president appointed as this committee Messrs. R. T. St. John, S. B. Packard and himself. The executive committee announced the assignment of superintendents of departments for the fair of 1906 as follows : Superintendent of tickets C. W. Phillips, Maquoketa. Superintendent of gates O. A. Olson, Forest City. Superintendent of privileges and con- cessions W. C. Brown, Clarion. Superintendent of horses M. McDonald, ."bayard. Superintendent of speed C. E. Cameron, Alta. Superintendent of cattle S . B. Packard, Marshalltown . Superintendent of swine R . S . Johnston , Columbus Junction . Superintendent of sheep H. L. Pike, Whiting. Superintendent of poultry H. L. Pike, Whiting. Superintendent of implements and machinery John Ledgerwood , Leon . Superintendent of agricultural productsR. T. St. John, Riceville. Superintendent of kitchen and pantry department R. T. St. John, Riceville. Superintendent of horticulture and floriculture M, J . Wragg, Waukee. Superintendent of dairy department ..H. R. Wright, Des Moines. Superintendent of exposition and art buildings , T. C. Legoe, What Cheer. Mr. Brown moved that the report of the executive committee on the assignment of superintendents be adopted. Motion pre- vailed. On motion board adjourned to meet at 1:30 o'clock p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. Board met at 1 :30 p. m., pursuant to adjournment, with mem- bers present as at morning session. Minutes of the morning's session were read and approved. Mr. Legoe moved that the matter of "assistant's tickets" for the fair of 1905 be delegated to the executive committee, with power to act. Motion prevailed. The petition of the Iowa Swine Breeders' Association was before the board, and on motion of Mr. Johnston the following classification was adopted for the Poland- China, Duroc- Jersey, Berkshire and Chester White breeds for the fair of 1905 : FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART I. 119 INDIVIDUALS. Boar 2 years or over $12 $10 $5 $3 $2 H. C. C. Boar 18 months and under 2 years 12 10 5 3 2 H. C. C. Boar 1 year and under 18 months 10 8 4 3 2H.C. C. Boar 6 months and under 1 year 10 8 4 3 2H.C. C. Boar under 6 months 8 6 4 3 2H.C. C. Sow 2 years or over 12 10 5 3 2 H . C . C . Sow 18 months and under 2 years 12 10 5 3 2 H.C. C. Sow 1 year and under 18 months 10 8 4 3 2H.C. C. Sow 6 months and under 1 year 10 8 4 3 2H.C. C. Sow under 6 months 8 6 4 3 2H.C. C. HERDS. Boar and 3 sows over 1 year $12 $10 $5 $3 $2 H.C. C. Boor and 3 sows over 1 year bred by ex- hibitor 15 12 7 5 2 H. C. C. Boar and 3 sows under 1 year 12 10 5 3 2 H. C. C. Boar and 3 sows under 1 year bred by ex- hibitor 15 12 7 5 2 H. C. C. GET OF SIRE. Four swine, get of same boar, bred by ex- hibitor $15 $12 $7 $5 $2 H.C. C. PRODUCE OF SOW. Four pigs under 6 months, produce of same sow, bred by exhibitor $15 $12 $7 $5 $2 H.C. C. SWEEPSTAKES. Boar any age. ,.. $12 Sow any age 12 Boar any age , bred by exhibitor 12 Sow any age , bred by exhibitor 12 Mr. Johnston moved that the class for Yorkshires be stricken from the Hst. Motion prevailed. Mr. McDonald moved that the revision of the Dairy depart- ment for the fair of 1905 be delegated to the superintendent of the department and the secretary. Motion prevailed. Mr. Packard moved that a class for Polled- Durham cattle be inserted, the classifications to be the same as in other cattle classes, and the following premiums be offered, aggregating $410. Motion prevailed : 120 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Individuals $15 $10 $ 7 Exhibitor's herd 20 15 10 Breeders' young herd 20 15 10 Get of sire 10 7 5 Produce of cow 10 7 5 Sweepstakes: Bull any age 10 Cow any age 10 Mr. Packard moved that the "Iowa" classification be also made for Galloway cattle, premiums to be the same as paid in the Shorthorn, Hereford and Angus classes. Motion prevailed. (Motion reconsidered.) Mr. Packard moved that in the Holstein and Jersey classes the premiums be made the same as in the premium list of 1903; viz : By the addtion of fourth and fifth premiums. Motion was lost. (Motion reconsidered.) Mr. Packard moved that a " Milk Contest " be adopted for fair of 1905, and that the board offer SlOO in premiums, the rules to govern same to be fixed by the superintendent of the cattle department and secretary. Motion prevailed. Mr. McDonald moved that the recommendations presented by Hon. H. G. McMillan, in the horse department be adopted, in so far as they apply to classification, with the exception of " Get of sire," and that the amount of premiums be so arranged that the increase will not exceed S550. Motion prevailed. Mr. Johnston moved that the action of the board on the motion of Mr. Packard in regard to the revision of the premiums in the Holstein and Jersey classes be reconsidered. Motion prevailed. Mr. Phillips moved to reconsider the action of the board on the motion of Mr. Packard as to adding an Iowa special class for Galloway cattle in the premium list. Motion prevailed. Mr Ledgerwood moved that the motion of Mr. Packard, adding an Iowa class for Galloway cattle be laid on the table. Motion prevailed. Motion of Mr. Packard for an addition of fourth and fifth premiums in the Holstein and Jersey classes was reconsidered, and motion prevailed. Mr. Pike moved that the class for Delaine sheep be stricken out, and that they be put in the class with Merino's, as per premium list of 1903. Motion prevailed. On motion of Mr. Pike the classes for Angora goats were stricken from the premium list. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 121 Mr. Pike moved that Licester- Lincoln class be divided, mak- ing a class for each. Motion prevailed. Mr. Pike moved that an Iowa classification be made for the Shropshires and Oxford Downs, premiums to be as follows: Motion prevailed. Ram 2 years old or over $ 7 $5 $3 Ram 1 year old or over 7 5 3 Ram lamb 7 5 3 Ewe 2 years old or over 7 5 3 Ewe 1 year old or over 7 5 3 Ewe lamb 7 5 3 Sweepstakes — Ram 5 Sweepstakes — Ewe 5 Get of sire — pen of four lambs 10 5 Prize for flock — to consist of not less than 1 ram and 5 ewes 20 10 5 On motion of Mr. Pike the class for " Middle Wool Flocks " was divided into two classes, the Oxford, Hampshire Downs and Dorsets, to be shown in one, and Shropshires and Southdowns in the other; premiums to be $20, $10, $5. Mr. St. John moved that the revision of the rules governing the entries in county exhibits, so that one or more exhibits can be made from one county, be delegated to the superintendent of the department and the secretary. Motion prevailed. Mr. St. John moved that $150 be added to the premiums in the agricultural department, same to be divided as follows : $50 for artistic display of grains and grasses; $50 for artistic corn display; and $50 for "county exhibits. Motion prevailed. Mr. Wragg moved that $100 be added to the premiums in the horticultural department. Motion prevailed. Mr. McDonald moved that the request of the Iowa Swine Breeders' Association for a plot of ground to be used as a "Model Hog^ Farm " be referred to the executive committee, with power to act. Motion prevailed. Mr. Packard moved that the executive committee be instructed to provide a telephone system for the State Fair grounds. Motion prevailed. Mr. Ledgerwood moved that the matter of providing attrac- tions for the fair of 1905 be left in the hands of the executive committee. Motion prevailed. Mr. Ledgerwood moved that the chair appoint a committee on per diem and mileage, which motion prevailed, and the chair 122 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. appointed as said committee, Messrs. Ledgerwood, Pike and Olson. Mr. St. John moved that the bill of Mr. Wragg for expense of gathering exhibits and other articles at the Exposition at St. Louis, amounting to $136.25, together with the bills of C. O. Garrett for $12 and L. G. Clute for $22.34 as assistants, be allowed, and the secretary instructed to issue warrants in payment thereof. Motion prevailed. Mr. St. John moved that each member of the board appoint five policemen, and that the five each appointed by Messrs Wragg and Ellyson be mounted police. Motion prevailed. Mr. Brown moved that Tuesday, August 29th of the fair of 1905 be designated as " Old Soldiers and Children's Day." Motion prevailed. Mr. St. John moved that the compensation for all help and assistants at the fair of 1905 be the same as at the fair of 1904, viz: Superintendents, not members of board $4.75 per day and actual railroad fare Assistant superintendents 3.75 per day and actual railroad fare Other help in departments not to exceed 3.25 per day Two assistant treasurers 5 . 75 per day Ticket sellers 3.25 per day Police 2.50 per day Mounted police 3.00 per day Gate keepers 2 . 50 per day Captains of gates 3.25 per day Chief marshal 50.00 Three assistant marshals 30 . 00 each Chief of police 5 . 00 per day Assistant chief of police 3 . 25 per day and actual railroad fare Motion prevailed. Mr. McDonald moved that the matter of having "special city days" at the fair of 1905 be left in the hands of the executive committee. Motion prevailed. Mr. Packard moved that the executive committee look into the practicability of getting certain articles and materials from the Exposition grounds at St. Louis for use on the Iowa State Fair grounds, and should anything be found that can be used to advantage that the same be purchased. Motion prevailed. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART I. 123 Mr. Packard moved that the executive committee be empow- ered to make such improvements on the Iowa State Fair grounds during the coming season as there are funds available and in their judgment are most needed. . Motion prevailed. Mr. St. John moved that each member of the State Board of Agriculture be allowed ten complimentary tickets for their per- sonal use at the fair of 1905. Motion prevailed. Mr. Packard moved that all unfinished business be dele- gated to the executive committee, with power to act. Motion prevailed. Committee on per diem and mileage reported as follows : Name. Days. Rate. Amount. Miles. Amount. Total. W. W. Morrow 6 6 6 6 6 6 t 6 6 6 3 3 6 $ 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.U0 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 $ 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00 • 24 00 24.00 24 00 24.00 24.00 24.00 12.00 12.00 24.00 82 140 158 102 195 58 100 16 89 65 123 155 200 $ 8.20 14.00 15.80 i6.'20 19.50 5.80 10.00 1.60 8.90 6.50 12.30 26;6o S32. 20 C. E. Cameron 38.00 R. S. Johnston C. W. Phillips W. C. Brown . R. T. 8t. John 39.80 24. UO 34.20 43 50 S B Packard 29.80 T. C . Legoe 34.00 M. J. Wragg. 25. 60 John Ledgerwood. . . . 32 90 M. McDonald 30.50 J. W, Wadsworth O. A. Olsen 24.30 12.00 H L. Pike , ... 44. 00 Total $444.80 John Ledgerwood, H. L. Pike, O. A. Olson, Committee on Credentials. On motion of Mr. call of president. Packard the board adjourned, to meet at J. C. Simpson, Secretary. 124 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. SYNOPSIS OF BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS, 1904. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. January 13, 1904. Committee met at call of President Morrow, with all members present. The president stated that the object of the meeting was to consider the instructions of* the board relative to asking the Thirtieth General Assembly for an appropriation for certain improvements upon the State Fair grounds. After discussing the question pro and con it was agreed to meet as previously arranged, on the 26th of January, for the purpose of receiving sketches of the proposed Agricultural, Horticultural and Dairy building, from the architects invited to prepare same. The committee, by correspondence, instructed the secretary to send out the following letter to the several architects selected : The State Board of Agriculture contemplates erecting a building upon the State Fair Grounds at Des Moines, Iowa, during the year 1904, and respectfully invites you as architects, to make a sketch of the floor plan, front elevation and section of such building, which would be suitable and large enough t > hold the exhibits in the agricultural, horticultural and dairy departments. The building is to be approximately 150x250 feet, or 35,000 to 37,000 square feet of floor space, to be divided as follows: For agriculture, 21,000 square feet; horticulture, 7,500 square feet, and dairy, 7,500 square feet. A good, substantial, plain building is desired; not too plain, but without costly decorations. The general appearance to be in its proportions rather than decorations. Material: Stone, brick, iron and wood. Scale: % inch to the foot. The main front will face northwest, and will be visible from all sides. The building will be erected on a si ping site, on which the southwest corner will be fully twelve feet below the northeast corner, and the northwest corner about eight feet below the northeast corner. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 125 Light: The light to be admitted from the side walls, at a point above sixteen feet, and the balance if needed, through roof. Floor: Aisles to be of cement, balance of paving brick. As the committee must take into consideration the cost of the building in their selection of plans, architects are requesed in submitting their plans to also present estimate of the cost of the building, and a guarantee from a reputable contractor that the cost will not exceed the architect's estimate. The State Board of Agriculture will pay $40 each for such sketches made b)' such architects as are invited to present them. The sketches are to become the property of -the board, with the under- standing that should the necessary appropriation for the building be made at the present session of the legislature, that the architect of the sketch adopted by the committee shall be invited to make complete plans and speci- fications of same, at a price to be hereafter agreed upon, and the $40 due the successful architect for his sketch, as above provided, shall be considered as payment on account for the complete plans and specifications as prepared by him. The other sketches than those adopted will be framed and hung in the Exposition Building, and the business card of the architects may be dis- played therewith. Sketches may be in pen and ink or in colors. The executive committee of the State Board of Agriculture will meet in Des Moines, January 26, 1904, and all proposed sketches must be in the hands of the secretary by eleven o'clock on that date. The above letter was written and sent to the following named architects on December 23, 1903: Libbie, Nourse & Rasmussen, Des Moines. Josselyn & Taylor, Cedar Rapids. Hallett & Rawson, Des Moines. Smith & Gage, Des Moines. Reeves & Bailie, Peoria, 111. Proudfoot & Bird, Des Moines. Cox & Schoentgen, Council Bluffs. The secretary presented communication from Mr. J. H. Jackson of Centerville, Iowa, asking the return of one half of entry fee ($25) which had been collected in full ($50) by the American Trotting Association, and was now in the treasury of the department. After the secretary had stated the details leading up to the presentation of said claim it was moved by Mr. Cameron, and seconded by Mr. Simpson, that the secretary be instructed to issue warrant for $25 in favor of Mr. Jackson. All voted in the affirmative. The secretary was instructed to purchase the necessary for- age for the feed barn, for the fair of 1904. On motion the secretary was instructed to issue warrants in payment of per diem and mileage as follows : To W. W. Morrow, 2 days and mileage $16.20 To C. E. Cameron, 3 days and mileage 26.00 126 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. January 26, 1904. Executive committee met as per call of president, with all members present. This being the day and date set for receiving architects' sketches for the proposed new agricultural, horticultural and dairy building, and the hour having arrived the committee pro- ceeded to look over such sketches as were presented and were received from the following named architects : Reeves & Bailie, Peoria, 111. Smith & Gage, Des Moines. Libbie, Nourse & Rasmussen, Des Moines, Proudfoot & Bird, Des Moines. The day was fully taken up in going over and discussing with the different architects the plans presented, and at a late hour the committee on motion adjourned to meet at nine o'clock the next morning. Wednesday, January 27, 1904. Committee met pursuant to adjournment with all members present. The entire day was consumed in discussing the plans sub- mitted for the proposed new building, without coming to an agreement or making a selection, and further consideration was postponed until the next day. Thursday, January 28, 1904. Committee met pursuant to adjournment, with all members present. After further considering the sketches and plans presented by the different architects for the proposed new agricultural, horticultural and dairy building the one submitted by Messrs. Smith & Gage was unanimously selected by the committee. On motion, which was properly carried, the secretary was authorized to issue warrants for S40, each, in favor of Messrs. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 127 Reeves & Bailie, Messrs. Proudfoot & Bird and Messrs. Libbie, Nourse & Rasmussen, in payment of plans and sketches pre- sented, as per agreement. The secretary was instructed lo ask for bids on the printing of the premium list. The secretary was instructed to insert additional premiums in the swine department as follows: Boar 18 months old and un- der two years. Sow 18 months old and under two years: pre- miums to be the same as offered in other classifications in list and to apply to four classes of swine; viz, Poland-China, Berk- shire, Chester- White and Duroc-Jersey. The secretary was instructed to issue warrants in payment of pay rolls as presented by Mr. Deemer, superintendent of grounds, for labor performed on the fair grounds, when same is properly presented and 0-K'd by Mr. Deemer. The secretary was authorized to issue warrants in payment of postage or other office supplies, when the same were needed. On motion, which was properly put and carried, the secretary was authorized to issue warrants in payment of per diem and mileage as follows : To W. W. Morrow, 3 days and mileage $20.20. To C, E. Cameron, 4 days and mileage $30.00. The secretary was authorized to issue warrant for S18 in favor of the Des Moines Hosiery Mills; this as payment (con- tribution) toward the purchase of a lot in the east portion of the city, near the Iowa State Fair Grounds, upon which the city pro- poses to erect a fire station; the provision being that the citizens and property owners interested donate the lot. 128 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING March 30, 1904. Committee met on call of president with all members present . The meeting was called for the purpose of looking over and selecting advertising matter for the Iowa State Fair of 1904. Advertising matter to the amount of $661 was purchased from the following named firms in amounts as follows : Brown & Bigelow, blotters and horse covers , $178.50 Matt. Parrot & Son, hangers (1500) 140.00 Gray Lithographing Co., hangers (1500) 97.50 Sutherland Novelty Co., hangers and cards (3000) 165.00 Byers, Campbell & Pattie, novelties (500) 80.00 The secretary was instructed to call a board meeting for Wednesday, April 6th. The bill making an appropriation for the proposed new building to be located upon the State Fair grounds having passed both branches of the legislature and become a law, this meeting of the board was necessary in order to select a location for said building, and to take such action as was necessary to authorize the executive committee to proceed with the work. On motion the secretary was instructed to issue warrants in payment of per diem and mileage as follows : To W. W. Morrow, 4 days and mileage $24.20 To C. E. Cameron, 4 days and mileage 30.00 On motion committee adjourned. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 129 MEETING OF THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. Wednesday, April 6, 1904. Board met on call of president and on roll call the following members were found to be present : Morrow, Cameron, Simpson, Johnston, Phillips, Brown, St. John, Packard, Wragg, Ledger- wood, McDonald, Wadsworth, Pike, EUyson and Wright. President stated that the purpose of the meeting was to decide upon a site for the location of the new agricultural, horti- cultural and dairy building, for which an appropriation of $47,000 was made by the Thirtieth General Assembly. Minutes of December board meeting and executive committee meetings were read and, upon motion, approved. A recess was taken until afternoon, for the purpose of visiting the grounds. AFTERNOON SESSION. Board called to order at 1:30 o'clock P. M. by the president, with members present as at morning session. It was moved by Mr. Phillips that the site for the location of the new building be the ground lying northeast from the stock pavilion, between Capital and Grand avenues, and east of Rock Island Avenue. Motion was seconded by Mr. St. John, and pre- vailed. Mr. St. John moved that the executive committee and Mr. Wadsworth be instructed to have all buildings, except the offices of the president and superintendent of privileges, removed from the plot of ground above described. Motion was seconded and prevailed. Mr. Phillips moved that the executive committee be instructed to notify all parties owning buildings on the ground selected for the location of the new building, that the same must be removed by the 25th of April, 1904. Motion was seconded by Mr. Ledger- wood and carried . 130 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Mr. Brown moved that the remodeling of the present Dairy- Hall into a dining hall be referred to the executive committee, with power to act. Motion was seconded and carried. Mr. McDonald moved that the remodeling of the Horticul- tural Building into a womans' building be referred to the execu- tive committee, with power to act. Motion prevailed. Mr. Phillips moved that the superintendent of privileges be instructed to let no privileges in the booths under the grand stand that have to use fire in any form, and that no lights, except electric lights, be permitted for lighting said booths. Motion was seconded by Mr. Wragg and was carried by a unani- mous vote. Mr. St. John moved that no show of an objectionable charac- ter be permitted upon the Iowa State Fair Grounds during the State Fair, and that the president be instructed to enforce the above motion to the letter. Motion was seconded by Mr. Ledger- wood and prevailed. Mr. Packard offered the following resolution and moved its adoption, which was seconded by Mr. Johnston and prevailed : Resolved, That the executive committee are hereby authorized and iustructed t6 advertise for bids for the erection of the new building for the use of the agricultural, horticultural and dairy exhibits upon the State Fair grounds; and it is further Resolved, That the executive committee be authorized to award con- tracts to the lowest responsible bidders. The president appointed a committee on per diem and mile- age, which reported as follows, and on motion same was adopted, and the secretary instructed to issue warrants in pay- ment thereof : Name. Days. Rate. Amount. Miles. Amount. Total. W.W.Morrow 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 $ 4.00 4.00 4.00 4 00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4 00 4 00 4.00 4.00 116. 00 16.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 16.00 12 00 82 140 158 102 54 200 89 195 65 16 123 $ 8.20 14.00 15.80 10.20 5.40 20.00 3.90 19.50 6.50 1.60 12.30 $ 24.20 C.E.Cameron R.S.Johnston 30.00 27.80 W.C.Brown 22.20 S.B.Packard 17 40 H.L.Pike .... 32 00 John Ledgerwood 20.90 R.T.St. John 31.50 M. McDonald M.J Wragg 18.50 13.60 J. W. Wadsworth 28 30 C.W.Phillips 12 00 M. J. Wragg, W. C. Brown, M. McDonald, Committee. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 131 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. Thursday, April 7, 1904. The committee met on call of president, with all members present. The superintendent of grounds was ordered to grade the ground lying east of the Clark dining hall. Also, to move the barber shop from its present location to the west side of Rock Island Avenue, immediately north of the Chicago Great Western building. Also, to move small dining hall to a position on the west side of Rock Island Avenue and immediately north of the brick sidewalk running to the stock pavilion ; and the large dining hall to a position a little south of speed barn No. 1. A location for police headquarters was selected on Capital Avenue immediately west of the superintendent of tickets' office. Horse barns No's 10, 11 and 12 were ordered taken down in sections and added to the end next to the ring of the other horse barns. The secretary was authorized to issue warrants in payment of pay rolls of superintendent of grounds when same were pre- sented by Mr. Deemer. The secretary was authorized to receive bids for the erection of the new agricultural, horticultural and dairy building, com- plete, except as to grading, and the superintendent of grounds was instructed to proceed with the grading as per location selected by the board. 132 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. April 28, 1904. The committee met at call of president, for the purpose of opening bids received for the erection of the agricultural, horti- cultural and dairy building, and any other business that would properly come before them. The matter of band music for the Iowa State Fair of 1904 was considered, and on motion of Mr. Cameron the Iowa Bri- gade Band of Oskaloosa was engaged at a salary of 8700. The time set for the opening of bids being 2:00 o'clock p.m., and the time having arrived, the committee proceeded to open the bids in the order filed by the secretary. The following bids were received : ^ ^ tc S o § c fl s bjS Bidders. 1 5 o . as g o O CO a o u 1c U be o 1 la ^ 0) m 111 CQ O^ o Q. 33 Q s Q Henry W. Schluter, Chic- ago, 111 $51, 424. 00 $2, 500 $ 14,000 $ 250 $34, 674. 00 Capital City Brick and Pipe Co 55, 636. 73 5,000 3,180 2,000 440 $56,092.73 38,544.00 add 48, 636, 78 34 574 00 Chas. Weitz Sons 38, 194. 00 $ 38,944 9 950 J. E. Lovejoy 48,975.00 44,725 2,500 300 400. 0. add 41,175.00 Wm. Hamilton .. 54,411.00 55, 161 4, 138 1,110 416. 00 49. 163. CO W. F. Mitchell &Co 41.545 OU 3.000 2.000 36, 545. Oo STRUCTURAL STEEL WORK-EXCLUSIVE. Des Moines Bridge and Iron Co Modern Steel Structural Co., Waukesha, Wis Union Foundry Works, Chicago, III 9,500 8,720 13. 650 After carefully considering all bids received, the committee deemed it advisable to let a separate contract for the erection of the structural iron work, and on motion of Mr. Cameron, the FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 133 bid of the Modern Steel Structural Co., of Waukesha, Wis., of $8,720 was accepted; this being the lowest bid received accord- ing to the plans and specifications, and acceptance was subject to their filing satisfactory bond within ten days. This motion was seconded by Mr. Simpson, and on roll call was declared to have carried. Mr. Cameron moved that the general contract, not including structural iron work, be awarded to Charles Weitz Sons, of Des Moines, Iowa, their bid being the lowest, according to the plans and specifications, with the following deductions: Deduct $3,180 if cement floor is omitted, and $440 if grading is omitted; thus making the amount of bid as accepted $34,574; this acceptance with the provision that satisfactory bond is given and contract executed within ten days as per plans and specifi- cations of said building. Motion was seconded by Mr. Simp- son, and upon roll call was declared by the president to have carried by a unanimous vote. The secretary was instructed to return the certified checks to all bidders, with the exception of the Modern Steel Structural Co., and Chas. Weitz Sons, which checks were to be returned upon completion of contracts and filing of bond. The secretary was instructed to issue warrant to Smith & Gage, architects, in the sum of $1,200, same being partial pay- ment for plans and specifications of the Agricultural, Horticul- tural and Dairy building, it being agreed that the architects were to receive five per cent (5^^) of the cost of the building for their work . The architects were to superintend the con- struction of the building, and Mr. J. H. Deemer was selected to act as superintendent in behalf of the Department of Agriculture. Warrrants were issued in payment of per diem and mileage as follows : To W. W. Morrow, 4 days and mileage $24.20 To C . E . Cameron , 4 days and mileage $30 . 00 134 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. Wednesday, May 5, 1904. Committee met on call of president, with all members present. • The day was spent at the fair grounds looking over improve- ments that were being made under the direction of Superintend- ent Deemer. A resolution was adopted instructing the Superintendent of Tickets to count all free tickets taken in at the gates during the fair. Mr. Gillette, representing Mr. M. W. Savage of Minneapolis, Minn., was before the committee and submitted a proposition for the appearance of Dan Patch at the Iowa State Fair of 1904. The committee did not deem it advisable to accept of the prop- osition submitted by Mr. Gillette, but after carefully consider- ing the mater decided to make the following offer: "That we give Mr. Savage $1,000 and fifty (50) per cent of the receipts received on the sale of tickets at the gates and grandstand over and above the receipts from these sources received on Thursday of the fair of 1902." Nothing in above proposition shall be construed to mean tickets sold after five o'clock p. m., at the gate or grandstand. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. Tuesday, May 17, 1904. Committee met on call of president, with all members present. The day was spent in inspecting the work on improvements being done at the fair grounds. A telegram was received by the secretary from Mr. Savage, accepting the proposition for the appearance of Dan Patch at FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 135 the Iowa State Fair of 1904. The secretary was instructed to close the contract with Mr. Savage, providing he would waive the clause in regard to free tickets. The bond of the Modern Steel Structural Company, was received, and on motion approved. Warrants were issued in payment of per diem and mileage as follows : For Executive Meeting, May 5, 1904: To C. E. Cameron, 2 days $8.00, mileage'$14.00; total $22.00 For Executive Committee Meeting, May 17, 1904: To C. E. Cameron, 4 days $16.00, mileage $14.00; total $30.00 For Executive Meeting, May 5, 1904: To W. W. Morrow, 3 days $12.00, mileage $8.20; total $20.20 For Executive Committee Meeting, May 17, 1904: To W. W. Morrow, 3 days $12.00, mileage $8.20; total $20.20 On motion the committee adjourned. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. Thursday and Friday, June 9 and 10, 1904. The committee met on call of the president, with all members present. The committee spent the major portion of the time at the fair grounds inspecting the work of improvements and repairs under way. It was decided to run a storm sewer from the south fence north to the stock pavilion, then northeast to the agricultural, horticultural and dairy building, and the secretary was instructed to purchase tile and sewer pipe necessary for same. On motion it was decided to allot space in the new building for the three departments as follows: Center section for the agricultural department; south section for the horticultural department, and north section for the dairy department. Mr. Deemer was instructed to accept bid of $165 for painting the exposition building with two coats of white lead and oil, the department to furnish all materials. 136 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The secretary was authorized to offer prizes for pictures taken during the fair. The secretary was authorized to arrange for a Sunday concert with the Eleventh Cavalry Band from Ft. Des Moines. The secretary was instructed to issue warrant for S300 in favor of Smith & Gage, same being second payment for plans and specifications, as per contract. Messrs. Morrow and Simpson were appointed as a special committee for the purpose of making a trip to Chicago to select attractions for the fair of 1904. Warrants were issued in payment of per diem and mileage sTs follows : To W. W. Morrow , 3 days and mileage $20 . 20 To C. E. Cameron , 3 days and mileage 30 . 00 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. June 23 and 24, 1904. Committee met on call of president, with all members present. The committee visited the fair grounds and expressed them- selves as being well satisfied with the progress made on the improvements up to date. A communication from Mr. T. Z. Magerrell, Supervising Deputy of the Court of Honor, was read, asking that the Court of Honor be permitted to hold their annual picnic on the fair grounds on Wednesday, August 22d. The request was granted and the secretary instructed to arrange to give them the use of the large assembly tent for a two hours' speaking program on Wednesday afternoon. One of the horses belonging to the department not being in a fit condition to work, the committee decided to sell same and purchase another to take her place, and the secretary was authorized to issue a warrant for $150 in payment of the horse purchased. The secretary was authorized to arrange programme for the races of the fire departments. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 137 EXEC15T1VE COMMITTEE MEETING. July 7 and 8, 1904. The committee met on call of president, with all members present; also, Messrs. St. John and Wragg. The president stated that the object of the meeting was to ascertain and make suitable arrangements for the interior fittings of the agricultural, horticultural and dairy building for this year. The committee, with Messrs. St. John & Wragg, spent the time at the fair grounds, talking over the arrange- ments, etc. Plans were finally adopted, and Mr. Deemer was instructed to fit up the building as per plans arranged. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING. July 21, 1904. Committee met on call of president, with all members present. The committee visited the fair grounds to ascertain the amount of damage done by recent rains. The race track was found to be in very bad shape, and Mr. Deemer was instructed to proceed at once to the resoiling of same. The superintendent of grounds was instructed to build a retaining wall along the bank east of the new building. Plans and specifications for the proposed porch along the west side of the Woman's Building were presented by the sec- retary, and on motion it was decided to proceed at once to the work of building same. Also, the superintendent of grounds was instructed to have a floor laid in the Woman's Building, and the secretary was instructed to purchase a limited amount of furniture to be placed in same. 138 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. MEETING OF THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. Friday Morning, August 26, 1904. Board met at call of President Morrow, and on roll call the following members were found to be present: Morrow, Cam- eron, Simpson, Brown, St. John, Packard, Legoe, Wragg, Ledgerwood, McDonald, Pike, Wadsworth and Johnston. Mr. E. M. Moore of Orchard Lake, Michigan, appeared before the board and made complaint in regard to the disqualification of his sheep in the show ring by the judge. After hearing Mr. Moore, and statement of Mr. Pike, Superintendent of the Sheep Depart- ment, the following communication from the judge was read: To THE Board of Managers, Iowa State Fair: Gentleman,— In the case of Mr. E. M. Moore, who was an exhibitor in the Delaine class of Merino sheep, there is a complaint by Mr. Moore that he was not properly treated in his exhibit, bein^ discriminated against by me. I believe his sheep to be a cross-breed sheep, having a strong Spanish or American Merino cross, thus making him ineligible for exhibition in the Delaine show. I asked him for evidence of their purity of blood; he replied that they were registered in one of the Delaine registers. I asked him for his evidence of this, and he said that he would have to send for it. He also said that all the best breeders in Ohio and Pennsylvania are now crossing these two families of Merinos and the produce are being accepted in both the American and Delaine registers of Ohio. He did not deny the claim I made of them being a cross-breed sheep, but justified the cross by the im- provement it made over the original Delaine type. This I concede, but my object was to protect your Delaine classification by not letting in ineligible sheep. Mr. Moore's sheep, if proven to be pure Delains, I would pronounce a better sheep than those they were competing with. He withdrew from the show ring, in place of continuing in and immediately demanding a ruling from the board. His conceding that his sheep were cross-bred only corroborates my judg- ment when his sheep were first brought in the ring. I do not want to impose any hardship upon Mr. Moore, and if anything can be done in your judg- ment, to relieve him, I shall be entirely satisfied. It is a question whether the judge should protect the innocent exhibitor in his honestly classed animals, or throw him entirely upon his own resources FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 139 to protest. I possibly assumed too much in the interest of the exhibitors of pure bred type of Delaines and the State Fair sheep show. Yours truly, G. W. Hervey, Judge, Sheep Department. The board decided that inasmuch as no protest had been pre- sented in compliance with the rules, they had no jurisdiction in the matter. Mr. Cameron moved that no exhibits be allowed to be taken from the grounds until after 4:00 o'clock p.m., except on the recommendation of the superintendent of the department and the president. Motion prevailed. On motion the board adjourned to meet at 1:00 o'clock p.m. AFTERNOON MEETING. Board met at 1:00 o'clock p.m., pursuant to adjournment, with the following members present: Morrow, Simpson, Phil- lips, Brown, Packard, Wragg, Ledgerwood, Johnston and Wads- worth. The time was taken up in allowing pay rolls presented by the superintendents of the several departments. Mr. Packard offered the following resolution, and on motion same was adopted : Whereas: The daily and weekly press of the State have most generously and widely advertised the State Fair, which has contributed so much to the success of the best fair ever held, therefore, be it Resolved: That the thanks of the State Board of Agriculture be ten- dered the press for their support. On motion the board adjourned to meet at 9 : 00 o'clock a . M.^ Saturday. Saturday August 27, 1904. " Board met at 9:00 o'clock A. M., pursuant to adjournment, with the following members present: Morrow, Cameron, Simp- son, St. John, Packard, Legoe, Wragg, McDonald, Brown, Johnston, Pike and Phillips. Mr. Brown moved that the executive committee be author- ized to secure cinders for the fair grounds, which motion pre- vailed. Mr. Packard moved that the executive committee be author- ized to expend what money is necessary for the purpose of 140 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. repairing walks and improving and decorating the grounds. Motion was seconded by Mr. Brown and prevailed. Mr. Brown moved that Mr. Jas. H. Deemer, superintendent of grounds, be allowed a vacation of thirty days, which motion prevailed. Mr. Packard offered the following resolution, and on motion of Mr. Wadsworth same was unanimously adopted : Whereas, The city of Des Moines, through its citizens and business men, have heartily co-operated with the State Fair management toward the suc- cess of the State Fair; and Whereas, Col. E. D. Thomas, with the troops under his command, sup- plied one of the most attractive features of the fair; therefore, be it Resolved, That the thanks of the State Board of Agriculture are hereby tendered to the city of Des Moines and to Colonel Thomas and to the Eleventh United States Cavalry. Mr. Wadsworth moved that the committee on per diem and mileage be appointed. Motion prevailed. • President appointed as such committee Messrs. Wadsworth, Johnston and Pike. Committee on per diem and mileage report as follows : Name. Days. Rate. Amount. Miles. Amount. Total. W. W. Morrow 19 16 19 20 19 15 17 19 19 19 20 29 19 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 S 76.00 64.00 76.00 80.00 76.00 60.00 68.00 76.00 76.00 76.00 80.00 116.00 76.00 82 140 158 $ 8.20 14.00 15.80 $ 84.20 C. E. Cameron R. S. Johnston ! 78.00 91,80 C. W. Phillips 80.00 W. C. Brown R. T. St. John 102 195 58 100 16 87 65 123 200 10.20 19.50 5.80 10.00 1.60 8.70 6.50 12.30 20.00 86.20 79.50 S. B. Packard 73.80 T. C. Legoe 86.00 M. J. Wragg John Ledgerwood 77.60 84.70 M. McDonald 86.50 J. W. Wadsworth 128. 30 H L. Pike . .. 96 00 25.00 John Cownie 25.00 Total J 1,182.60 Mr. McDonald moved the board adjourn to meet on call of president. Motion prevailed. J. C. Simpson, Secretary. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART I. 141 MEETING OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. Friday, September 23, 1904. Committee met at call of president, with all members present. The question of placing insurance on the Agricultural- Horti- cultural and Dairy building was brought up, and the secretary was instructed to have fire and windstorm insurance to the amount of S15,000 placed on same. Secretary was instructed to have renewed, the insurance on the blanketed form policy to the amount of $38,700, this insur- ance expiring on the 26th day of September, and to issue war- rants in payment of premiums on insurance when same has been written. Secretary was authorized to issue warrants to Chas. Weitz Sons, general contractors of the Agricultural- Horticultural and Dairy building, to the Model Steel Structural Co., on the iron contract, and to Smith & Gage, architects, to an amount to bal- ance said contracts in full, when building has been fully com- pleted according to the plans and specifications. Mr. Deemer, superintendent of grounds, was instructed to replace all window lights which were destroyed recently by hail, and to clean up the grounds and finish any work which had been left unfinished at the time of the fair. The State Board of Control during the month of October having kindly offered to turn over to the department of agricul- ture the Iowa agricultural and horticultural exhibits and equip- ments at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition at St. Louis, pro- viding the department would send a man to take charge of same at the close of the Exposition, the secretary was instructed to authorize Mr. M. J. Wragg to go down and take charge of same for the department, with the provision that the total expense was not to exceed S150. 142 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. AUDITING COMMITTEE MEETING. September 23 and 24, 1904. The auditing committee met on the days above mentioned with members present as follows: J. W. Wadsworth, C. W. Phillips and W. C. Brown. All bills on file were passed upon, and the secretary author- ized to issue warrants in payment thereof. Crystal Lake, Lakewood Farm, Lyon County, Iowa. PART II. REPORT OF THE IOWA WEATHER AND CROP SERVICE FOR J 904. * WITH MAP SHOWING IOWA'S CORN CROP FOR PAST TEN YEARS. John R. Sage, Director. METEOROLOGICAL SUMMARY FOR THE YEAR 1904, Barometer.— The mean pressure for the year was 30.04 inches. The highest observed pressure was 30.85 inches, on February 10th, at Sioux City; lowest pressure, 29.09 inches, on December 27th, at Dubuque. Range for the State, 1.76 inches. Temperature.— The mean temperature for the State was 46.3% which is 0.4' below normal. The highest temperature reported was 100% on July 17th, at Marshalltown. The lowest temperature reported was 32' below zero, on January 27th, at Elkader and Fayette. Range for the year, 132% Precipitation. — The average amount of rain and melted snow for the year, as shown by complete records of 96 stations, was 28.74 inches, which is 2,68 inches below the normal, and 6.92 inches below the average amount in 1903. The greatest amount recorded at any station for the year was 38.93 inches, at Keokuk. Least amount recorded 19.34 inches, at Vinton. The greatest monthly rainfall was 11.97 inches, at Thurman, in July; least monthly amount, none, at Rockwell City, in November. The greatest amount in any 24 consecutive hours was 7.73 inches, at De Soto, July 19th. The average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more of rain fell was 75. Wind and Weather. — The prevailing direction of the wind was north- west. Highest velocity reported, 68 miles an hour, in Sioux City, from the northwest on March 2d. Average daily movement, 216 miles. There were 164 clear days, 97 partly cloudy, and 105 cloudy days; as against 156 clear days, 100 partly cloudy, and 109 cloudy days in 1903. 144 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. • SUMMARY BY MONTHS. January — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by- records of 111 stations, was 14.0", which is 4.2° below the normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 10.1°; central section, 14.1"; southern section, 17.8°. The highest monthly mean was 21.6 at Red Oak; lowest monthly me^, 6.6° at Charles City. The highest temperature reported was 57' , at Red Oak, on the 19th; lowest tem- perature reported, 32° below, at Elkader and Fayette, on the 27th. The average monthly maximum was 45.4'; average monthly minimum, 23.2°. Greatest daily range, 49° , at Atlantic and Villisca; average of greatest daily ranges, 34.2°. Average precipitation for the State as shown by records of 122 stations, was 1.18 inches, which is 0.21 of an inch above the normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 0.49 of an inch; central section, 1.06 inches; southern section, 2.00 inches. The largest amount reported was 3.68 inches, at Lacona; least amount reported 0.02 of an inch, at Storm Lake. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 2.45 inches at Belle Plaine, on the 20th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 6. Prevailiog direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 50 miles per hour, from the southeast, at Sioux City, on the 18th. G Average number of clear days, 12; partly cloudy, 8; cloudy, 11. February.— The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 107 stations, was 14.8 degrees, which is 4.8° below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 10.7°; central section, 15.0 ; southern section, 18.8°. The highest monthly mean was 21.6°, at Keokuk; lowest monthly mean, 7.2°, at Estherville. The highest temperature reported was 70°, at Keosauqua, on the 6th; lowest temperature reported, 26°, at Fayette, on the 1st. The average monthly maximum was 51.3°, average monthly minimum, 14.4° below zero. Greatest daily range, 60.0°, at Dennison; average of greatest daily ranges, 41.0°. Average precipitation for the State as shown by records of 118 stations, was .41 of an inch, which is .63 of an inch below normal. The average by sections were as follows: Northern section, .63 of an inch; central section, .35 of an inch; southern section, .25 of an inch. The largest amount reported was 1.99 inches, at Ridgeway; least amount reported, trace at Osceola andThurman. The greatest daily rainfall reported was .84. of an inch, at Ridgeway on the 17th and 18th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 4. Prevailing direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 61 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 2d. Average number of clear days, 10; partly cloudy, 9; cloudy, 10. March. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 116 stations, was 34.8°, which is 2.4° above normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 32.4°, which is 2.8° above normal; central section, 34.9°, which is 2.7° above normal; southern section, 37.0° , which is 1.1° above normal. The high- est monthly mean was 38.6° at Burlington, Guthrie Center, Glenwood, Keokuk, Osceola and Ottumwa; lowest monthly mean, 27.0° at Cresco. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 145 The highest temperature reported was 78.0 at Ottumwa on the 23d; lowest temperature reported 3' at Columbus Junction on the 3d. The average monthly maximum was 62.9°; average monthly minimum, 4.6°. Greatest daily range, 55.0" at Sioux City; average of greatest daily ranges 36 8° Average precipitation for the State as shown by records of 127 stations, was 2.18 inches, which is 0.35 of an inch above normal. The aver- ages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 174 inches, which is .12 of an inch above normal; central section, 2.05 inches, which is .17 of an inch above normal; southern section, 2.74 inches, which is .17 of an inch above normal. The largest amount reported was 4.57 inches at Bedford; least amount reported, .50 of an inch, at Ida Grove and Sioux City. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 2.35 inches at Bedford on the 30th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 7. Prevailing direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 68 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 2d. Average number of clear days, 8; partly cloudy, 8; cloudy, 15 April. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 115 stations, was 44.1% which is 5.2° below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section 42.4°, which is 4.9*^ below normal; central section 44.4°, which is 4.4° below normal; southern section 45.5' , which is 6.7° below normal. The highest monthly mean was47.8' at Ottumwa; lowest monthly mean, 40.2° at Sibley. The highest temperature reported was 86% at Sigourney and Forest City on the 22d and 23d; lowest temperature reported 13°, at Primghar on the 11th. The average monthly maximum was 77.1°; average monthly minimum 20.9°. Greatest daily range, 48° at Forest City; average of greatest daily ranges 37.2°. Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 126 stations, was 3.63 inches, which is .74 of an inch above normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section 2.73 inches, which is .11 of an inch above normal; central section 3.48 inches, which is .58 of an inch above normal; southern section 4.68 inches, which is 1.57 inches above normal. The largest amount reported was 8.97 inches at St. Charles; least amount reported, 1.52 inches at Elkader. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 3.11 inches at Sigourney on the 25th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 7. Prevailing direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 56 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 11th. Average number of clear days, 15; partly cloudy, 6; cloudy, 9. May. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by rec- ords of 114 stations, was 59.6% which is 0.8' below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 58.2% which is 1.1' below normal; central section, 59.9°, which .3' below normal, south- ern section, 60.6% which is 1.4 below normal. The highest monthly mean was 62.4°, at Burlington, Onawa, Keokuk and Ridgeway; lowest monthly mean, 56.4% at Sibley. The highest temperature reported was 93% at Ridgeway, on the 22d; lowest temperature reported, 27°, at Charles City, on the 15th. The average monthly maximum was 85.8°; average monthly minimum, 34.3°; greatest daily range, 47°, at Monticello and Norwood; average of greatest daily ranges, 37 3°. Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 126 stations, was 3.78 inches, which is 2.35 of 10 146 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. an inch below normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 4.01 inches, which is. 19 of an inch above normal; central section, 3.41 inches, which is .68 of an inch below normal; southern section, 3.92 inches, which is .43 of an inch below normal. The largest amount reported was 8.15 inches, at Onawa; least amount reported, 1.50 inches, at Clear Lake. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 3.33 inches, at Florence, on the 24th and 25th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 8. Prevailing direction of the wind, southeast; highest velocity reported, 41 miles per hour, from the south, at Sioux City, on the 4th. Average number of clear days, 13; partly cloudy, 10; cloudy, 8. June.— The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 114 stations, was 67. T, which is 2.5' below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 65.7°, which is 2.6'' below normal; central section, 67.5' , which is 2.0" below normal; southern section, 68.2°, which is 3.1° below normal. The highest monthly mean was 70.6°, at Monticello; lowest monthly mean 63.7' at Sibley. The highest temperature reported was 94° at Clinton, Larrabee, Ridgeway and Ruthven on the 23d and 24th; lowest temperature reported, 35° at Charles City on the 2d. The average monthly maximum was 88.1°; average monthly minimum, 45.9°. Greatest daily range, 45° at Pocahontas; average of greatest daily ranges, 33.4'. Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 126 stations, was 3.45 inches , which is 1.05 inches below normal. The average by sections were as follows: Northern section, 4.53 inches, which is .15 of an inch below normal; central section, 2.74 inches which is 1.56 inches below normal; southern section, 3.08 inches, which is 1.33 inches below normal. The largest amount reported was 8.35 inches at Humboldt; least amount reported, .44 of an inch, at Gilman. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 3.67 inches at Charles City on the 19th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 7. Prevailing direction of the wind, southeast; highest velocity reported, 58 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 28th. Average number of clear days, 13; partly cloudy, 10; cloudy, 7. July. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 119 stations, was 70.6°, which is 3.6° below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section 69.1°, which is 3.9° below normal; central section 71.0°, which is 3.1° below normal; southern section 71,70', which is 3.9° below normal. The highest monthly mean was 74.0° at Keokuk; lowest monthly mean, 66.5° at Cresco. The highest tem- perature reported was 100° , at Marshalltown on the 17th; lowest temperature reported, 38°, at Fayette on the 2d. The average monthly maximum was 93.1°; average monthly minimum, 46.8°. Greatest daily range, 43", at Logan; average greatest daily ranges, 33.4° . Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 117 stations, was 4.41 inches, which is .16 of an inch above normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 3.77 inches, which is .41 of an inch below normal; central section, 4.47 inches, which is .38 of an inch above normal; southern section, 5.00 inches, which is .54 of an inch above normal. The largest amount reported was 11.97 inches at Thurman; least amount reported, 1.28 inches, at Plover. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 7.73 inches at De Soto on the 19th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 10. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 147 Prevailing direction of the wind, southwest; highest velocity reported, 42 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 3d. Average number of clear days, 16; partly cloudy, 9; cloudy, 6. August. — The monthly mean temperature lor the State, as shown by the records of 115 stations, was 69.1% which is 2.7° below normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 67 3% which is 3.2°, below normal; central section, 69.2°, which is 2.4° below normal; southern section, 70.7"^, which is 2.9° below normal. The highest monthly mean was 73 3 at College Springs; lowest monthly mean, 6.5.0° at New Hampton and Sibley. The highest temperature reported was 97° , at Mt. Ayr and Waukee, on the 13th; lowest temperature reported 35°, at Earlham, on the 8th. The average monthly maximum was 91.4'; average monthly minimum, 44.0°. Greatest daily range, 45° at Rock Rapids; average of greatest daily ranges, 35.1° Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 126 stations, was 3.43 inches, which just equals the normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 2 89 inches, which is .16 of an inch below normal; central section, 3.24 inches, which is .29 of an inch below normal; southern section, 4.15 inches, which is .45 of an inch above normal. The largest amount reported was 6.75 inches at Fort Dodge; least amount reported, .66 of an inch, at Sibley. The greatest daily rainfall'ieported was 4.00 inches at Fort Dodge on the 29tb. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 7. Prevail- ing direction of wind, southwest; highest velocity reported, 42 miles per hour, from the south, at Sioux City, on the 3d. Average number of clear days, 17; partly cloudy, 8; cloudy, 6. September. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by the records of 114 stations, was 64 0°, which is .4° above normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 61.8°, which is .5° below normal; central section, 64.3°, which is 1.1° above normal; southern section, 65.6°, which is .2° above normal. The highest monthly mean was 68 6°, at Belknap; lowest monthly mean, 59.0°, at Sibley. The highest temperature reported was 94', at Wilton Junction, on the 11th; lowest temperature reported, 30°, at Atlantic, Earlham, Han- lontown and Rock Rapids, on the 14th, 15th and 21st. The average monthly maximum was 88.9°, average monthly minimum, 34.7°. Greatest daily range, 54°, at Estherville; average of greatest daily range, 36.5°. Average precipitation for the State, as shown by the records of 122 stations, was 2.78 inches, which is .52 of an inch below normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 2.67 inches, which is .74 of an inch below normal; central section, 2.13 inches, which is 1.13 inches below -normal; southern section, 3.53 inches, which is .28 of an inch above normal. The largest amount reported was 8. 33 inches, at Keokuk; least amount reported, .09 of an inch at Ida Grove. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 3.1 inches, at Keokuk, on the 18th and 19th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 7. Prevailing direction of the wind, south and southwest; highest velocity reported, 39 miles per hour from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 1st. Average number of clear days, 13; partly cloudy, 8; cloudy, 9. October.— The monthly mean temperature for the State as shown by records of 111 stations, was 53.1°, which is 1.0' above normal. By 148 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 51.1^, which is .4' above normal; central section, 53.0° which is 1.6° above normal; southern section, 55.2°, which is .7° above normal. The highest monthly mean was 58.4". at Belknap; lowest monthly mean, 49.2' at Esther- ville. The highest temperature reported was 96°, at Waukee on the 4th; lowest temperature reported, 16° at Earlham on the 27th. The average monthly maximum was 81.9"; average monthly minimum, 23.2'. Greatest daily range, ST at Waukee; average of greatest daily range, 36.9° Average precipitation for the State as shown by records of 120 stations, was 1.67 inches, which is .73 of an inch below normal. The average by sections were as follows: Northern section, 2.50 inches, which is .29 of an inch above normal; central section, 1.60 inches, which is .78 of an inch below normal; southern section, .90 of an inch, which is 1.73 inches below normal. The largest amount reported was 4.43 inches at Sioux Center; least amount reported, . 14 of an inch at Bonaparte and Corydon. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 3.00 inches at Olin on the 9th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 6. Prevailing direction of the wind, southeast, south and northwest; highest velocity re- ported, 52 miles per hour from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 21st. Average number of clear days, 15; partly cloudy, 8; cloudy, 8. November. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 110 stations, was 41.0°, which is 6.3° above normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section, 39.3', which is 7° above normal; central section, 40.7°, which is 6.1' above normal; south- ern section, 43.1°, which is 5.4' above normal. The highest monthly mean was 45.8°, at St. Charles; lowest monthly mean, 37.4° at Maquoketa. The highest temperature reported was 80' , at Ruthven and Waukee, on the 18th; lowest temperature reported, 4', at Britt, on the 30th. The average monthly maximum was 71.1°; average monthly minimum, 9.6°. Greatest daily range, 56°, at Rock Rapids; average of greatest daily ranges, 37.8'. Aver- age precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 119 stations, was .15 of an inch, which is 1.25 inches below normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, .17 of an [inch, 'which is 1.19 inches below normal; central section, .15 of an inch, which is 1.28 inches below normal; southern section, .14 of an inch, which is 1.30 inches below normal. The largest amount reported was .50 of an inch, at Bonaparte and Glen- wood; least amount reported, none, at Rockwell City. The greatest daily rainfall reported was .50 of an inch, at Bonaparte and Glenwood, on the 9th and 10th respectively. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 1. Prevailing direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 43 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 29th. Average number of clear days, 20; partly cloudy, 6; cloudy, 4. December. — The monthly mean temperature for the State, as shown by records of 114 stations, was 23.4°, which is .5° above normal. By sections the mean temperatures were as follows: Northern section 20.6° which is .5° above normal; central section 23.5°, which is .3° above normal; southern section 26.1°, which is .4° above normal. The highest monthly mean was 29.9° at Keokuk; ^lowest monthly mean, 18.2° at Forest City. The highest temperaturelreported was 67°, at Albia, en the 22d; lowest temperature re- ported 19', at Elkader, on the 14th. The average monthly maximum was FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 149 55.5°; average monthly minimum -8.8'. Greatest daily range 57% at Maquoketa; average of greatest daily ranges, 36.8°. Average precipitation for the State, as shown by records of 119 stations, 1.44 inches, which is .15 of an inch above normal. The averages by sections were as follows: Northern section, 1.19 inches, which is .16 of an inch below normal; central section, 1.66 inches, which is .32 of an inch above normal; southern section, 1.48 inches, which .32 of an inch above normal. The largest amount re- ported was 3.68 inches at Newton; least amount reported, .06 of an inch at Storm Lake. The greatest daily rainfall reported was 2.53 inches at Newton on the 27th. Average number of days on which .01 of an inch or more was reported, 5. Prevailing direction of the wind, northwest; highest velocity reported, 57 miles per hour, from the northwest, at Sioux City, on the 27th. Average number of clear days, 12; partly cloudy, 7; cloudy, 12. REVIEW OF THE CROP SEASON, 1904. The year 1904 was cooler than usual, the mean temperature being 46.3', which is 0.4'' below normal. The average precipitation was 28.74 inches, which is 2.68° below normal. The winter was colder than usual. In January the average daily tem- perature was 14% which is 4.2° below the State normal. The lowest tem- perature recorded was 32'^ below zero, on January 27th, at Elkader and Fayette. In February the mean temperature was 4.8' below normal, and the lowest was 26" below zero on the 1st. The soil was frozen to an unusual depth. March brought moderate temperature, but the prevalence of cloudi- ness prevented rapid thawing of the soil, and the ground was generally too wet for seeding operations. April was abnormally cold, the records of 115 stations showing a daily defi- ciency of 5.2° in temperature. The average rainfall was 3.63 inches, which is an excess of .74 of an inch above the April average. There were some dry periods, however, with sufficient sunshine to afford ample opportunity for seeding and preparing the ground for planting corn. Seeding of spring wheat, oats and barley begun generally from the 1st to the 4th, and that work was practically completed in the larger part of the State about the 20th or 23d. Germination of seed was unusually slow, but at the close of April there were indications of a good stand, except on low, wet fields. Fruit buds appeared healthy and promising, but there were only a few blos- soms visible prior to the 1st of May. The pastures and meadows wer unusually late in starting, and there was but little grass for stock at the end of the month. On the whole, though the growth of vegetation was much belated, the month was more favorable than the corresponding month in 1903. May was nearly normal, the daily mean temperature showing a deficiency of only .8". The average rainfall, 3.78 inches, was .35 of an inch below the May normal. In portions of the west central district, and in some of the southern counties, there was some heavy downpours, which caused much delay in planting, the great excess of moisture being due in large part to 150 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. f the saturated condition of the subsoil, resulting: from abnormal rainfall in the preceding season. On the whole it was a favorable month, with suf- ficient warmth and moisture for grass and small grain, and general con- ditions favorable for farm work and the germination of the better qualities of seed. Except in quite limited areas, the corn crop was planted about as early as usual, and the soil was in very good condition. The month was especially favorable for the growth of grass in meadows and pastures, and for the small grain crops on well drained lands. The hay crop was well assured; oats and spring wheat stooled out fairly well; potatoes made a fine start; garden truck was well advanced at close of the month, and the fruits promised a better yield than has been produced in recent years. June was cooler than usual, with less than the normal amount of rainfall, and a large percentage of cloudiness in portions of the State. The daily average temperature was 2.5 degrees below normal. The precipitation was quite unequally distributed; the northern section receiving an average of 4.53 inches, the central section 2. 74 inches, and the southern section 3.08 inches. The week ending June 6th brought excessive rains in all parts of the State, except portions of the east central district. The wet and cloudy weather of that week caused much delay in the cultivation of corn, and in large portions of the State the fields became weedy and the growth of corn was consider- ably retarded by cold nights and wet, cloudy weather. The second week was generally very favorable for field work and the growth of crops, the days being bright and warm with ideal conditions for cleaning out the corn fields. The week ending the 20th was also favorable, though the temperature was below normal. There was but little interruption of work, and fair progress was noted in the growth of all crops. From the 20th to the close of the month the temperature was abnormally low and there was more than usual cloudiness in the larger part of the State. Despite all the drawbacks, how- ever, the corn crop advanced steadily, and at the close of the month the fields were generally clean and the stand was but little below the average of the past fifteen years. The month as a whole was favorable especially to small grain, which headed out about the usual time, though short in straw. The hay crop was well advanced and fairly good, especially in quality. Potatoes and garden vegetables were usually promising. July was unseasonably cool, the mean temperature being 3.6' below normal. The warmest period was the second decade. The average rainfall for the State , 4.41 inches , was . 18 of an inch above normal. The northern sec- tion received an average of 3.77 inches; central section, 4 47 inches; southern section, 5.00 inches. Rain in measurable quantity fell at one or more sta- tions every day during the month. And yet the average number of clear days was 16; partly cloudy 9, and cloudy, 6. Generally there was sufficient sunshine to promote plant growth. The days were warm, and nights unusually cool. Tne heaviest storm of the month, in respect to rainfall, occurred on the night of the 19th, bat the excessive downpour was limited to a few counties. Oa the whole the month was favorable for crops and field work. Corn was laid by from the 4th to the 15th— about a week later than usual. During the showery period i i the early half of the month spring wheat and oats were attacked by rust. The wheat crop was damaged seri- ously, but oats were not very badly injured. The latter half of the month was FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 151 favorable for harvest operations and most of the small grain was in shock or stack before August 1st. Haying progressed quite favorably and though the yield was lighter than the average the quality was superior, and most of it was secured in good order. Corn made notably fine progress, despite the cool weather, and at the close of the month that crop was much more advanced than was deemed possible earlier in the season. Potatoes, garden truck, apples, small fruit and all minor crops made normal advancement. The average temperature of August, 1904, was exactly the same as August, 1903, 1902 and 1891. The mean temperature was 2 1^ below the August normal. In the northern section it was 67.3°; central section, 69.2'; southern section, IQJ' . The month was mostly clear and warm by day, though unseasonably cool at night. The average rainfall was normal for the State, but in its distribution the larger amount was received in the south and eastern districts, where it was most needed. The bulk of the rainfall came about the 17th to 21st and 29th. There were, on the average, 17 clear days, 8 partly cloudy, and 6 cloudy, affording an ample amount of fair weather for harvesting, stacking, threshing, cutting wild hay, millet, etc., and fall plowing. In all these farm operations very good progress was made. The pastures were revived and made green as in June by the copious showers in the latter half of the month. The corn crop made fair advance- ment during the month, though in view of its belated condition its progress was not as rapid as seemed desirable. The most advanced portion of the crop was well filled and dented at the close of the month. Reports at that time indicated that about one-third of the crop, with favorable conditions, would be mature by September 20th, while the balance required abundant warmth and sunshine until October 1st to be safe from harm by killing frost. The crop was unusually rank, green and heavily eared. The minor crops were in good condition. Potatoes made heavy yield, and early apples were especially good and abundant. The yield of tomatoes and green corn for canning has been better than usual. Garden truck, cucumbers for pickling and melons yielded abundantly. The average temperature of September was about normal for the State, the southern and central sections showing an excess, and the northern section a small deficiency. The coldest period was from about the 11th to the 22d. The average rainfall for the State was 2.78 inches, which amount is about .52 of an inch below the normal for September. In its distribution there was much inequality, ranging from less than a tenth of an inch atone station in the northwest to over eight inches in the southeast district The south- east and northeast districts received the heaviest rainfall. The week ending September 12th was normal in temperature and sunshine, with very light rainfall, and generally favorable conditions for ripening the belated corn crop, a considerable portion of which was well dented, with husks and blades putting on the brown shade of autumn. The week ending the 19th brought several days of good ripening weather, but much anxiety for the immature portion of the corn crop was caused by the occurrence of light to heavy frosts on the mornings of the 12th, 14th and 15th, the cold wave extend- ing to all districts in the State. A few stations also reported frost on the 21st. The lowest temperature reported was 30% at four stations. The ob- served effects proved that the frosts were not ''killing," and that the damage to the corn crop was limited to late planted fields in the bottom 152 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. lands of the central valleys of the State. Broadly stated, the actual damage by frosts affected less than one-fourth of the area planted, and the shrinkage of the frosted portion of the crop was probably less than 20 per cent. This would indicate possible loss of 5 per cent of the crop for the State, as the direct result of frost. The cold weather of that period, however, retarded the development of the crop, and made it desirable to extend the ripening weather beyond the first of October. During the month good progress was made in the usual farm operations, such as plowing, seeding fall wheat and rye, harvesting potatoes, apples and millet, and threshing small grain. The yield of potatoes, and fall apples has been very satisfactory. The grape crop was heavy, and there has been a good yield of plums. The growth of all kinds of garden truck has been unusually heavy. The pastures have been much better than usual for September. At the close of the month it was estimated* that ninety per cent of the corn crop was practically safe. October was warmer and drier than usual, the daily mean temperature being about 1° above normal, and the average rainfall of the State was 0.73 of an inch below normal. The northern section received the largest amount, the average being about .29 of an inch above the October normal. The first frost of the month occurred on the morning of the 6th, and was heavy enough to kill vines and most of the cornstalks remaining green in the northern half of the State. In the southern half the frost was light, caus- ing no damage. The first general killing frost covering the State occurred on the morning of the 23d, all crops being safe at that time. The bulk of the rainfall came in the first and second decades — mainly between the Sth and 20th, the balance of the month being dry and favorable for farm work, for drying out the corn crops and harvesting the miner crops. No better weather could be desired for preparing corn for cribbing than was preva- lent from the 20th to the 31st. Good progress was made in harvesting the corn during the last week though the heavier ears contained considerable moisture. But the weather was cool by night, though moderate and clear by day. The heavy potato crop was harvested in good condition, the qual- ity of the product being unusually good. Pastures were very good through- out the month. Good progress was made in fall plowing. The small acre- age in fall wheat and rye showed an excellent growth and good stand. On the whole, October was a very mild and favorable month, crowning a fairly productive crop season. The month was unusually warm and the driest November on record for the State. The mean temperature, as shown by records of 110 stations, was 41.0% which is 6.3° above normal. The average in 1902 was .2 of a degree higher and 2.9° higher in 1899. The average precipitation for* the State at 119 stations was .15 of an inch, which is 1.25 inches below normal. Nine stations reported no rain in measurable amount. Practically all the precipi- tation fell on the 9th and 10th, and the average number of clear days was twenty. The conditions were ideal for husking corn and drying out the surplus moisture. At the close of the month the bulk of the crop was har- vested. Conditions were also favorable for fall plowing and general farm work of the late autumn period. The pasturage was better than usual, though the fields were brown. Winter wheat and rye suffered some damage for want of moisture. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 153 The first decade of December brought continued fine weather with favor- able conditions for gathering the corn and cribbing the entire crop. The season as a whole was favorable for the production of a fair output of the staple crops. Though germination and growth were belated, the warmth and dryness of autumn brought ample compensation to the patient and faithful tillers of the soil. 154 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. CROP REPORT JUNE 1, 1904 Reports received June 1st from country and township corespondents of the State Weather and Crop Service show the following results as to the number of acres and average condition of staple farm crops; also the con- dition of fruit and live stock. Corn. — Total number of acres, 9,052,450 — an increase of about 7 per cent as compared with the average of the past six years, and 1,500,000 acres in excess of the area actually harvested in 1903. The average condition of corn about June 1st was 90 per cent, or about 15 points above the estimated con- dition at corresponding date last year. Wheat. — The area of spring wheat sown this season appears to be only 775,040 acres, a decrease of about 377,000 acres as compared with the acreage in 1902. The winter wheat acreage is about 71,030 acres. Condi- tion of spring wheat, 94 per cent; winter wheat, 85 per cent. Oats. — Area seeded, 4,018,980 acres; a decrease of about 190,000 acres compared with the acerage of 1901, or about 5 per cent below the normal area. The condition is placed at 92 per cent. Barley. — Area seeded, 493,370 acres; decrease since 1901, about 38,300 acres. Condition June 1st, 93 per cent. Rye, — Area seeded, 99,590 acres; decrease since 1901, about 25,000 acres. Condition June 1st, 91 per cent. Flax. — Area seeded, 51,370 acres; decrease since 1901, 23,130 acres. Condition of crops, 85 per cent. Potatoes,— Area planted, 113,250 acres; condition 95 percent. Acre- age about normal. Meadows. — Area 2,797,640 acres; an average of recent years. Condi- tion 96 per cent. Condition of pastures, 97 per cent. Condition of Fruit. — Apples, 91; plums, 89; peaches, 48; grapes, 87; cherries, 83; strawberries, 94; raspberries, 88; blackberries, 77 per cent. Condition OF Live Stock —Cattle, 94; swine, 93; sheep, 97; horses, 95; foals, 93; spring pig crop, 85 per cent. Condition of Crops June 1, 1903. — Corn, 75; wheat, 93; oats, 93; bar- ley, 96; rye, 94; potatoes, 91; flax, 84; meadows, 109; pastures, 107; apples^ 70; cherries and plums, 35 per cent. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 155 CROP REPORT JULY, 1. Following is a summary of reports received from correspondents of the State Weather and Crop Service, estimating the condition of the staple farm crops July 1, 1904. The reports generally show that the stand of corn and oats is materially lighter than the average, owing to defective seed; and all crops are several days later than usual, as a result of the late advent of spring. The general condition, however, is several points better than at the corresponding date last year, as will be seen by the figures below: Condition July 1, 1904: Corn, 90 per cent; spring wheat, 91; winter wheat, 87; oats, 91; barley, 93; rye, 94; flax, 89; meadows, 90; pastures, 94; potatoes, 101; apples, 85; plums, 70; grapes, 89. Condition July 1, 1903: Corn, 77 per cent; spring wheat, 88; oats, 87; barley, 89; r>e, 93; flax, 85; meadows, 104; pastures, 107; potatoes, 96; apples, 70; plums, 49; grapes, 78. CROP REPORT AUGUST 1. Tabulated reports received from correspondents of the Iowa Weather and Crop Service show the following estimates of the condition of ihe staple crops on August 1, 1904: Spring wheat, 75 per cent; corn, 88; oats, 89; flax. 94; pastures, 96; potatoes, 101; apples, 73; grapes, 86. At corresponding date last year the estimates were as follows: Spring wheat, 82 per cent; corn, 73; oats, 77, flax, 84; pastures, 104; potatoes, 80; apples, 65; grapes, 80. Compared with the estimates of condition on July 1, 1904, spring wheat shows a decline of 16 points, on account of the serious attack of rust and blight during the latter part of July. The estimates are two points lower on corn and oats as compared with the July rating. As a matter of fact, however, the general outlook of the corn crop is better than it was about the first of July , though it is still relatively about eight to ten days later than usual. Secretary • reene, of the Iowa Horticultural Society, gives the following report of the fruit crop for August 1, 1904: • Summer apples, 62 per cent; fall apples, 64; winter apples, 54; peaches 10; American plums, 60; domestic plums, 38; Japan plums, 45; grapes, 82. The best crop of apples is grown this year in the eastern part of the State. 156 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. IOWA CROPS— FINAL REPORT, 1904, TOTAL YIELD FOR THE STATE— VALUE OF SOIL PRODUCTS AT FARM PRICES DECEMBER FIRST. Despite somewhat adverse conditions at the outset, and belated growth of the cereal crops, the final report for the season of 1904 makes a satisfactory exhibit of the agricultural resources of the State. The warmth and dryness of the autumn made partial amends for low temperature and slow progress during the summer. Corn. — The area planted this season was 9,052,450 acres. The loss of acreage from various causes was relatively small compared with receni seasons, and it is probable that practically about nine million acres were harvested. The average yield for the State appears to have been about 36 bushels per acre. The total yield is 323,853,330 bushels, which is 93,342,000 above the yield last year and the largest crop produced since 1900. During the past fifteen years there have been two larger crops; viz.: 345,000,000 bushels in 1900, and 335,000,000 bushels in 1901. This year's output is 62,000,000 bushels above the fifteen year average. The average price per bushel, at the farms December 1st, was about thirty-five cents; total value of the crops, $113,348,665. Wheat.— This crop was badly damaged by rust and blight. The area of winter wheat was about 71,030 acres, and the average yield 14.3 bushels per acre; total yield, 1,017,000 bushels. The acreage of spring wheat was 775,040 acres; yield 9.1 bushels per acre; total output for the State, 7,080,430 bushels. Farm prices, winter wheat 92 cents; spring wheat, 86 cents. Total value of wheat crop, $7,024,809. Oats.— Area seeded, 4,018,980 acres; yield per acre 29.4 bushels; total bushels; 118,435,570. The farm value. 26 cents; total value December 1st, $30,793,284. Rye.— Area seeded, 99,590 acres; yield per acre, 15 bushels; total yield, 1,517,090 bushels. Value, at 54 cents per bushel, $819,228. Barley. — Area seeded, 493,370 acres; yield per acre, 25 bushels; total yield, 12,317,710 bushels. Value, at 34 cents per bushel, $4,188,021. Flax.— Area, 51,370 acres; yield, 11 bushels per acre; total yield, 591,140 bushels Value, at $L15 per bushel, $679,811. Potatoes.— Yield per acre, 125 bushels; total output, 14,255,680 bushels. Value, at 28 cents per bushel, $3,991,590. Hay (tame).— Area harvested, 2,797,640 acres; total yield, 4,499,090 tons. Value, at $5.62 per ton, $25,284,885. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 157 Hay (wild).— Total amount cut, 1,091,590 tons. Value at $4.50 per ton, $4,912,155. Pasturage AND Grazing.— The value of pasturage and grazing, har- vested by live stock, in pastures and in grain fields, cornfields and meadows after harvest, is placed at $90,000,000, or about $400 per farm of 160 acres. This is believed to be a low estimate. TABULATED CROP SUMMARY. Crops. Total Produots. Farm value December 1st. Corn Wheat Oats ... Rye Barley Flax Potatoes Hay (tame) Hay (wild) Pasturage and grazing (cornfields, etc. ) . Buckwheat (estimated) Sweet potatoes Sorghum and broom corn Timothy seed Clover and millet seed Flax seed Fruits and garden truck Total soil products . 323, 853, 330 bushels 8. 097, 430 bushels 118, 485, 570 bushels 1, 517, 090 bushels 12. 317, 710 bushels 591, 140 bushels 14, 255, 680 bushels 4, 499, 090 tons l,Oyi, 590 tons $113,848,665 7,023,809 30, 793, 284 819, 228 4, 188, 021 679,811 3,991,590 25, 284, 885 4,912,155 90, 000, OCO 250,000 350,000 260, 000 950, 000 175, 000 679,810 7, 500, 000 $291, 207, 258 In this estimate no account is made of the profits derived from the con- sumption of the staple crops in the dairy and live stock industry. The average farm value of milch cows is $28, and of horses, $92 per head. 158 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 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S^ rcrrt>roo»c ^-^Qo"— co^^ O0005CviO«32lO0500X05m0iCCmt-OCD-«J<— i^C5-*C0'*-*O(M^»n'-i. — laiOOOOCSiniO — OOCOiOCOiOOSDCMmCOOO^OOCOCO-^OCMCOC: occot- co" w i-Tr-T CO of CO CO !^f<^iocco'co'*VTl^o:f-.J^sQ.-isfc>^-^!"TJ^ ill iiiiiiiiiiiiiii ■:iiiii : iiiii gS?5 ^2oogj«^o*«^gg;2;3§2 ;SS^|^ : •"SS^S ocwo cooooooooNOoooioooosow o^-hoso ^ ■_ 00 Oi JO J^ 00 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART II. 159 >ooooooooooooooooooo )>OlOfOCV»CO-H—i.-'i—iOO'— !'-<>— lOt-OOO^^ ^00C^* — -Hr^C^lC^J(MiMCCC>JOCOO»^-*Ort^ OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO C^C>i»0»0-HC0O>— I,— iCOOOT'— ir:0-HlO-^>OCDl_-^lO'— l^-CO-^ iO^Ji0^03"3ao-^f«&-^-i.-i?OiM«D050530(>J lOOOt-^OOCViC^Ji-iOl ->*<>-( O"© CliO it-CVJ occixi- o CO u3 as coiooco«ooo'a»0'*o«oo5u3»f50mt-oooiooooo<»'^ot-' •■ <7iOi ■ '• cioi • '■ ■ ■■ ■a^ OS : :2 i : : .°*°° :'^22 : : : 2 2 103,620 26,600 ""51,250 219, 120 52, 500 24, 500 62, 750 18,980 31,8t0 38, 250 105, 600 63, 030 123,900 106, 650 90,250 18, 250 61,800 185,920 154,200 91,200 177,800 23,000 46,800 7,480 1,131,750 39, 260 73,500 20, 250 60,240 ' '334,' 880 152, 400 ■" 171, '360 650,750 704,860 18,040 156, 300 239, 250 87,080 ""i6,600 86,250 ill §3^ [^^^'Si^^^'S^B^^^'P/^,UP,9 g§5 -au^ s^ ^ ^ r, \^S : :gSSg^gS23 :g^ 8§?s ooooooooooooooo op ooooooooo - -iioooo o X i^iog:3;ooQooi*» >jc^ oooio«DC- — " »Ot-r-ioot-OOCv|CD«0«00(MjOC-' ® 00 00 iM I )»OOClt-.-H -HQO«50?OOOOOWiOOOOO-*OCQ:DOOO-^»OiO>0 0-*»»0»OC->0001tOOC>l-^»0»001iC)"^iOCQ01iOir50U5»0 OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOQOOoOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO oiOTt<^iooo-*>oir5mooo-^-^-*o— iioiooooicO'nkOooocMO-vOiao^— 'OOOio-3'2;-*goooo CMOoou^c>iOioo■^coooo•-H(^^ooooTflL-oouooo»»oocMaoc-c^Joo■*o-*•--'fiaoooo-«'c-o■»rlOxco■!irt-r-irT]i"o6"cd"t-^t-^ rDtn^iOt^^Cit^-^fOt^^aiOOcC'-*^taceioo-^-^t^Oi^oic> -^o c-^io lOcvro t~ oTcoco'cc 'tCi-Too' •T^O^OO'^CvllOlO03OOt-00l0utlO0i-H00-*l05Q'-iCD-*-«*it-CD-»lOi-H0^i000OC03;O--u3'*^ O»C^l3il0■-l^OO^n■*O00CMC^^OOOC~■C0OO0^OOOl»■*■*O00t-C^J«:DCvlCQt-C-1--l^0Ot-■<11T^i0i(^l•«» : (MOi ^ -^ O Tft L »oooiooio->9'»n-^i0 3:-n'ocoo5 0cooo ' CO CO CO C C C O * O O-^ 83 Sj3 160 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. P Z H O O I O CL, o O ^^ •snoi^^e^oj, snox •suo;ib;oi, dJO'B add ff[at[Stiq ;- 00 ■i -^ to -H ,-1 o (M -w S a» 05 CO (M — cv/ iO (M ^ r» -p r^ ,-. 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N pi "tC I ( H ! ^ »> ^ I « ;^^S^^^ <^^ *^ j "^^ ! < ; H ^ FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART II. 173 o o PART III proceedings of Iowa Swine Breeders' Association AND Iowa Improved Live Stock Breeders' Association, proceedings of the annual meeting 1904. By C. C. Carliu, Special Representative of the Twentieth Century Farmer . OFFICERS OF ASSOCIATION. D. L. Howard, President, ..... Jefferson. Joe Steward, Vice-President, .... Ames. J. A. Benson, Vice-President, .... Primghar. W. D. McTavish, Secretary and Treasurer, . . . Coggon. . The annual summer meeting of the Iowa Swine Breeders' Association was held in Des Moines, Tuesday and Wednesday, June 14th and 15th. There were in attendance perhaps one hun- dred prominent swine breeders of the State and men having special interest in the corn improvement subjects that consti- tuted a predominant share of the program. W. Z. Swallow, president of the association, opened the meeting with the follow- ing address. 176 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. It is a fitting acknowledgment of the importance of the sessions of this organization that, in the fact of the unusual pressing condition of farm work, so great a number of the members are present. Ours is a work the importance of which is second to no other branch of agricultural pursuits of our Nation, and it is a matter of no little pride to us to know that the hog raisers of Iowa last year produced hogs whose value equaled one-sixth of the hog product of the entire United States; that on January 1st of this year the farmers of Iowa owned 7,364,268 hogs, or almost double the number owned in any other State. Illinois follows with 3,700,000, then Nebraska with 2,800,000, and Ohio with 2,700,000, while Rhode Island winds up the list with but 12,000 head. It has been my pleasure to witness the great advancement of the swine breeding industry from almost an insignificant beginning to the principal money making feature of the great corn belt. You all know how great has been the influence of the hog on the progress, development and improvement of the country. The high place which the hog now holds as an element in public pros- perity is, however, no evidence that the work of the Iowa Swine Breeders' Association and kindred organizations has been completed. It should, on the contrary, spur us on to still further improvement, and the production of an animal which shall still more nearly approach the ideal hog— the one that brings the top price at the stock yards. Market reports show that a discouragingly small per cent of hogs sent to market bring the high figure. While of course we as breeders can not be held to account for the great number of hogs, we are in a great measure responsible. The best hogs can only be raised by using good blood. If we fail to provide good blood the pork raiser who depends upon us for his seed will meet with disappointment. The proper selection of breeding stock is the most important point in the breeder's business and I trust that subject may receive some discussion at this meeting. The season just past has in many respects been a most trying and unsatis- factory one to farmers, yet I believe the breeder of pure-bred hogs has felt the depression less than any other. The outlook for the coming season seems an encouraging one. Owing to the scarcity of feed fewer brood sows than usual were kept, and the pig crop was still further reduced by the unfavorable spring. These facts, with the probability of a good corn crop, justify the expectation of a good demand for pigs of both sexes and at fair prices. The intimate connection of good corn crops with the welfare of the hog raiser, gives especial interest to that portion of our program devoted to corn culture, which Professor Holden has kindly consented to talk upon. As usual we are under obligations to the National Association of Expert Swine Judges, whose meeting will take place tomorrow. Their work is all of the practical and instructive character, and I am sure that everyone in attendance today may learn something to his advantage by attending. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 177 IOWA'S CORN AND HOG PRODUCT. This subject, which was the first on the program, was pre- sented by Jas. Atkinson, of Des Moines, and his paper is here given in full : An examination of statistics relating to Iowa's hog and corn product reveals the fact that in both these commodities this State stands out as a leader, considering the matter from the standpoint of quality or total value. On January 1, 1904, Iowa owned 16 per cent of the hogs of the United States, these representing the value of practically $50,000,000. This is a significant fact, inasmuch as it means that our people are converting a very large proportion of their grains and grasses into the higher priced products, thereby keeping the fertility at home. Of course, our ability to produce hogs is based upon the fact that conditions are almost ideal for the produc- tion of corn — the grain above all other grains which, if properly used, is the best hog food on earth. 1 attach considerable significance to the phrase inserted above, "if prop- erly used." There are those among our people who are engaged in swine husbandry whose real occupation is signified by the term "corn hauler" rather than "hog breeder." These men accomplish much in the direction of reducing the size of their hogs, as well as their vigor, while at the same time they are constantly tending to lessen their prolific qualities. These accomplishments are not necessarily the result of using corn, but rather abusing it by employing methods that are not strictly common sense in character. Statistics reveal one fact upon which we may ponder with profit, namely, that the average value per head of the hogs in this State is low compared with many other states of the Union, and while several factors, many of which are in no way discreditable, enter into this phase of the question, yet undoubtedly much may be accomplished by way of increasing the value per head of our hogs by freer use of good blood and by the employment of sen- sible methods of feeding. I have no sympathy with those who advocate cutting corn out of our hog ration in ( rder that we may increase the stamina, lengthen the body and multiply the prolific power of our swine, because, while these are all commendable, yet we must not lose sight of the fact that under our con- ditions there is more money in the short, fat hog fed on corn than there is on the long hog that must be fitted for market on the higher priced by-products and grains that are not produced in their highest perfection in this State. The fact that our best farmers are able to grow upward of 3,000 pounds of good corn to the acre is significant, inasmuch as this amount furnishes about three times the feeding value that can be obtaineOi from the other cereals. We must, therefore, ever be on the alert 12 178 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. to acquire more knowledge on the "how and why" of feeding this crop, to the end that the greatest possible profit may be realized A feeling of weariness is experienced by the sensible hog breeder when half-posted characters advocate the doctrine of withholding corn from the brood sow during the gestation period and from the growing pigs until they are ready to be fattened for the market. If it becomes necessary to do this we had better go out of the hog business— a change that I do not presume will be made during the days of this generation. Do not understand me to advocate an "all corn" ration. The u?e of pastures in summer, including the grasses, clovers, rape and sorghum, must be employed in conjunction with corn if we are to keep up the stamina of her herds, while supplementary foods, such as mill products, the by-prod- ucts of flax and corn or of the packing house, must be used when no green food is available. For growing pigs I know of no supplementary food that will excel sweet skim milk, especially if it is fed warm, fresh from the sep- arator. Where skim milk is lacking breeding stock, until it is eight or nine months old, should, in our opinion, have a liberal allowance of the supplemen- tary foods mentioned above. Our herd of pigs three months old is receiving a mixture composed of five parts corn, three parts shorts, one part ground oats and one-half part tankage and alfalfa meal, these being fed in the form of a thick slop. This ration, you will see, is composed of a little more than half corn. In addition the pigs are receiving a liberal ration of dry, shelled corn, scattered night and morning over a clean part of their blue grass pasture. The skim milk supply does not admit of feeding more than about one quart per day to each pig, but on the ration described above the herd is making highly satisfactory gains. As hog breeders I know you are eagerly watching the investigations of those scientific men who are engaged in improving the corn crop, especially'' those who are endeavoring to establish varieties that are richer in flesh form- ing constituents than those now grown. You doubtless know that it has been found possible to increase the protein content of corn to the extent of two or three per cent, and we are now only waiting to ascertain whether or not this percentage may be kept up, and especially to see if this may be done without lessening the yield. If the protein content of our corn could be increased two per cent I believe it would practically do away with the necessity of feeding high-priced by-products — a condition which would in turn lead to cheaper production. The day may come when we shall have some sayso in the matter of regu- lating prices, but at present it seems as though we are sadly at the mercy of a buyers' ring or combine. If it is impossible to accomplish anything in this direction it certainly is not impossible to work along the lines of lessening the cost of production, and in this way we may arrive at that point where a reasonable margin of profit is afforded the man who produces hogs for the meat market. As before mentioned, I believe our experiment station work- ers can do much for the swine breeder by continuing along lines that are already well started in some institutions. While a straight corn ration could be fed at less cost than the one men- tioned above, )et I believe that the effect of these nitrogenous supplemen- tary foods in building up a good frame will more than repay for the extra cost of this food. Of course it should be understood that these hogs are to FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 179 be used for foundation stock and are not intended for the block, but in either case it is my opinion that it will always pay to use some of the rich nitrogenous foods in supplementary quantities, because in this way we seem to derive much greater benefit from what corn we feed. I regret exceedingly that mill products have been so high this spring, because this means that these products have been used in too sparing quan- tities, although it is hoped that the abundant growth of legumes and grasses will in part make up for the lack of these products. In spite of the fact that our hogs are not worth so much per head as is the case in some of our sister noncorn states, I still repeat, stick to the Iowa pig and feed him liberally on Iowa corn. Keeping constantly in mind the cost of production, make use of the nitrogenous by-products, especially in the case of growing pigs in order that their constitutions may be fortified against disease attacks and that the length of body, and especially the prolific powers, may be not only maintained, but increased over what they are at present. As most of you are breeders of foundation stock you are carrying a heavy responsibility, because it is to you the common farmer must look for material to improve his grade herd. In the past harm has resulted from men sending out inferior registered stock, and while there is a temptation to always sell in the dearest market, yet men who are endeavoring to build up for themselves a reputation adopt the practice of unsexing all animals that do not come up to a certain standard. This from the standpoint of self- interest seems to be the wisest policy in the end, while in the course of a decade who can guess how much good the general adoption of such a plan will confer upon the swine raisers of our State? Study the weaknesses that are to be observed in the common hogs that are sent to market and endeavor to build up the foundation material of a character to correct the defects exhibited in these herds. The outlook is bright for the hog breeder who will take one breed and stick to this through thick and thin and who will use well bred, meritorious males from generation to generation. The ninety and nine are breeding nothing but nondescript hogs, crossing and recrossing until there is no size and but little vitality left, while the opportunity is afforded the hundredth man to furnish these, not only with correct ideals, but also with correctly formed hogs, and to all such the hog business in my estimation will be profitable during the next decade. A general discussion of the subject which followed the read- ing of this paper showed that among breeders, corn is looked upon as a valuable hog food, but that its greatest merit is in the final finishing for market. The two expressions given below, from different men, will perhaps serve to present the drift of the argument. One said: Corn should be used largely, but the less corn the better for breeding. In feeding my breeding animals I use oats shorts largely, mixed wiih bran and a very little corn, 1 have no milk to feed on the farm and as long as they are getting milk from the dam I give them corn. After that I give them oats with the hull taken off and partially reduced in bran and a very little corn. This being in the corn belt corn must enter into the ration. 180 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. The man who feeds for the market must feed corn, but if you have fifteen or twenty brood sows I believa you can afiford to feed them something besides corn. I breed Duroc-Jerseys exclusively and we claim a good deal for the prolificness of that breed. You ought to use something besides corn. The oats I feed are first roasted and then put through a sort of brush which brushes off the end and hull of the oats. It is done by centrifugal force. The oat stands on end and the end is ground off so you get a very pure article. When the oat is put through the huller the tip of it is broken off. The oats shorts make a fine feed when you get the genuine article. Hogs lay on fat better with corn, but I can not say that I like corn for breed- ing stock. 1 can not agree on corn for a diet. The other gave some of his experience as follows : I am feeding about one-third corn. If I am feeding a bunch of hogs for the market there is nothing better to produce the fat, but for breeding stock the less corn the better off you will be. We can grow good hogs without corn, but we can grow corn so much cheaper than other foods that it would seem advisable to feed some of this corn. I advocate that you feed some oat shorts, but let them have some corn to put them in the sale ring. The sale and a breeding animal are two different things. A show hog is not a breeding animal — is not a reliable breeder. I maintained last year and maintain it \et, the less corn you give a breeding animal the betttr off you are. BREEDING AND CULTURE OF CORN. Prof. P. G. Holden, of the Iowa Agricultural College, gave an extended talk upon this topic, from which we extract the following more important statements : It seems to me that this is a very proper place to discuss the question of corn. It is very closely connected with the great business with which you people are connected. You are unique in your position as representing the greatest association of any State in the United States, producing more hogs than any other three states. Fifty per cent of the hogs that go into Chicago annually come from this State. It is one of the best evidences of the partic- ularily high condition of agriculture and it will mean more in the future development of the agriculture of this State. It means that it will lead us on to do our best in every way possible to hold that position and even increase the worth of our animals. One thing is found to be true and that is that the people of this State are more anxious to study and investigate these things than in any other State. They want to study and improve their corn. More interest is taken in your swine breeding matters and in the agriculture college. More people come there to visit the college. But it has been a great disappointment to me to fail to find family clubs in the State, as we have them in many other states. In Michigan 400 clubs are in existence. When families get together to dis- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 181 cuss these questions and improvements themselves you will all realize that not all of life is to lay up money, and there are not many of us that would want to trade off the welfare or good name of our boys and girls for all the money in the country. What we need most here in regard to corn is to get our people together to practice and make use of those things that we all know, so that we can take hold of the improvements and conditions in our own neighborhoods. It is not so much learning more, but of taking hold and doing those things that we all know. We need to take more interest in corn. Corn will not produce to its limit until the people will follow out the methods that will pro- duce more bushels to the acre. You know very well in connection with the hogs that there are days and times when you sit up all night and take care of pigs, and it means more than days or weeks of work. If there is any one thine that I have in mind it is that feeling and desire on my part to originate if we can these clubs, to bring the people together and to feel that they will have corn judging contests and get to work together. That is the only way we can expect the very best results — for corn and hogs are of very little con- sequence. As I said before, I can only hope to call attention to a few things, and they are not along the line of scientific research, but the things that we can all do and all know. We can increase the protein in corn, but it takes years to do it and only to a small extent, but if we will pay attention to the kind of seed and plant corn so as to get the right amount we can produce all that the acre is capable of. We get hundreds of letters at the college at Ames asking us what kind of corn is best for the difiEerent kinds of soil. We can not tell, as you know very well that corn adapted to one part of the State is not good for another. This has been settled largely in some of the counties in this way. The county poor farms have been made experiment stations, and are called the county experiment stations. They grow diflferent kinds of corn on the farm, side by side. They watch the growth of the different kinds of corn, the number of stalks to the hill, and which obtains the best results. Variety and strength of ground are important factors. As to the amount of seed, in some cases four kernels might be necessary, and in others two or three might be plenty. We are just at the beginning. Our land is valuable and becoming more valuable, and we have to get a few more bushels and the profit on our hogs depend on the corn we feed them. Get the hog that will make the most out of each bushel of corn and raise the most number of bushels per acre. There are many questions along this line that have not been settled and must be taken up and the county poor farm will be the place where they will be taken up. In a dry season we can get more in a hill with one stalk than in a hill with three or four. At the time when you plant the corn select out the twenty or forty best ears of corn that you have and plant those on one side of the field — not with the rest — on the west or south side. After the corn has started go into this part and pull out the stalks that are not good, or if you do not do that and are pretty careful with it, wait until it has just tasseled and go through the field and pull out these tassels from the stalks that are weak, and in that way you will practically get rid of the pollen of all that corn. We go into the field and save the good ears of corn, thinking that like 182 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. ill produce like, but on the grains of this fine ear of corn is the pollen that has drifted over and we know only one side of it. The female is the corn and the male is the pollen, and if we pay no attention to it you know the result. It is one of those things that must be considered by all of the farmers throughout the State. I said on west or south because the wind will blow the pollen over it- The neighbor's corn might blow over it and it is owing a great deal to the situation of the field. If there was a road and hedges between there would not be much danger of mixing from the other side. We find that if there is a hedge there is no mixing from the north and east, but from south and west about eighty rods would be necessary between the two fields. If the corn is the same variety it does not make much difference, but it is much better if it can get the pollen from the strong stalks. As to the comparative value of butts and tips of ears for seed purposes, we find that the butts and tips are not as good as the middle. The middle comes up first, and the tips last because they are a little weakly. The trouble of the corn coming up through the country would lead me to call attention to the serious condition of affairs. People did not pay attention to the seed. It is due to poor seed rather than butts and tips. In favorable seasons a great many times you will see stalks with two large ears on them. I am not certain that it is desirable to plant these ears in the hope of culti- vating that feature. If we get one good ear to a stalk we are doing well. Depth of planting is important. One of the greatest faults this year was farmers planting corn the same as last year. This year it went in deep. Perhaps there is no one thing that is so important in our corn crop as the question of a stand and probably there is nothing that is so serious as that we have on an average two-thirds of a stand of corn in this State. The point that I want to investigate is that we need to realize the importance of having a good stand of corn. The greatest cause of our poor corn is the poor stand. We do not get returns that the land is capable of giving. We could have a good stand as well as a poor one. I went through a field that had from ninety-six to ninety-eight per cent stand of corn, and when I came out the man who owned it had come over from across the way and said he had a good stand of corn and it had cost him a lot of work. He said he spent a week testing each ear of that cora and spent another week getting his planter in shape to plant the corn. But he had fine results and showed how well he did his work. My experience has for a number of years been that we fell down in our stand. Let us be sure that we follow out these things ourselves. On the Funk farms we tested the corn for many hundred acres of corn and tested, each ear of it, and it certainly can be done here. We lay out the ears on the floor in rows so that they are side by side, and then take a box that would hold the corn from about one hundred ears. We have some sand in the bottom covered over with a cloth. The sand is damp and the cloth is marked off into squares, each one of them numbered so that we can put a kernel from each ear in the squares, making the number of the square cor- respond with the number of the ear from which the kernel was taken. This makes a good general test and we feel that we have a pretty good corn to plant. Sometimes we take three kernels out, one from the tip, one from the butt and one from the middle. This year we took six. In three or four FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 183 days we lift the cloth off and can see exactly what they are doing and from what ears the good kernels came. We take out those that do not seem to be growing and push out the ears that we took them from. It would mean millions and millions to the farmers of the State if every farmer would do this. I wish we could all do this another spring. The next thing in connection with getting stand is the planter. We have forty-five and only about one-third of them would give us an even stand last spring. We put them on the floor and tested them with the corn and arranged them so that they would plant evenly. The butts and tips should be shelled off in order to get a better stand, and each ear should be shelled by itself, and when it is shelled put them together, the long with the long. We have been trying to make our planters plant large and small at the same time. Seed that is kept dry in the winter would seem to retain its vitality a little better than that which is kept moist. Corn contained a great deal of moisture this year, owing to the fact that it dried off on the outside, mak- ing it appear dry. Whenever it was put in the crib the best corn was on the outside of the crib, where the weather could get to it and dry it. I believe we should so breed our corn that it would have a type of char- acter and be uniform. We should do it ourselves and do it well. We can all improve our corn from our own study and examination of it. We have found that an ear of corn with strong germs is the one that is the largest. The little plant is supplied with food from it. Poor ears have small germs. The poorer the germ the poorer the tip, and the less of the white matter the better the corn. The kernels that are plump and full at the tip are the best. You do not need too big a cob, as a large one is hard to cure. But, on the other hand, I would not have it too small. The most things that we know about corn are what we don't know, but it is quite a question in my mind as to whether we should breed for a big kernel or a small one. If we get our kernel too big we find that there is a tendency to slow maturity and it is hard to get the moisture out of it so it will keep. There seems to be a limit, but we do not know what that limit is The proportion of cob to corn does not amount to much. I think 1 should say eighty-five to eighty-six per cent. In other words fourteen to fifteen per cent cob. The important thing is the number of bushels to the acre. Whenever I judge corn I try to pick out that sample of corn that I would like to take home with me to my farm. I think we are doing damage by making our judging of corn simply a matter of science. 184 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, THE PRESENT AND FUTURE SWINE BREEDER AND FEEDER. George H. Moore, of Kansas City, Mo., discussed this subject in brief as follows : The swine breeder has made possible, through years of energetic toil, the possibilities now possessed and enjoyed by the farmers and feeders of swine all through the corn belt. The present thoroughbred breeder of swine, regardless of strain, puts his best thought, effort and skill into the develop- ment of a certain type and backs his judgment by conversation, argument or letter. There was a time when men in this audience believed a good hog could not be produced in the west, but breeders of swine in the State of Iowa have not only transferred this great establishment to this state, but more and better hogs are bred and fattened in Iowa than in any other State in the Union. The hog is a machine for man's use, comfort and enjoymeni as well as his individual care. If you do not administer to the hog wisely and well you can not hope to reap the profits in the future. Ten years has demonstrated to the feeder that he can make a bunch of hogs weigh about so many pounds at a certain age, owing entirely to care, conditions and feed. The breeder has demonstrated along the same lines the kind of hog he determines he ought to have at a certain age. Now, do you not agree with me that you may not only have the ideal hog today, but have had the ideal for some years past? Yet you have not slackened your efforts nor have you rested. I am convinced that the ideal in form, type development, con- stitution and money making has been reached. You raise on your farms, or at least should raise, what is needed most to develop your herds, droves and flocks and bring the same to early maturity and market value that remunerate you for your time and labor. Every man, to be a success, must know the exact cost of prod ction before he is com- petent to put a price on his product or determine his profit. HEALTH OF THE HERD. D. L. Howard, to whom the subject of " Health or the Herd " was assigned, made but a short talk, but what he said brought out an extended discussion that contained a good deal of in- formation. The principal part of his remarks were as follows: A complete knowledge of and close attention to details are necessary to the health of the herd. No line of business can be successfully prosecuted without a faithful following out of minor details, and live stock raising is no exception. Success in raising hogs is attained by watchfulness, strict observance of every condition, prompt recognition of every index of physical FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 185 condition, keen investigation of the results of feeds, cares of environment and a string of collateral influences and treatments that will make themselves plain to every thinking man. Ancient alchemists and scientists spent their time in vain attempts to extract gold from base metals and to discover the elixir of life. By the modern order of things men make gold by looking after the little things. The careful and intelligent care of the herd will in most cases forestall loss by disease. Keep hogs clean and they will keep well in nineteen cases out ot twenty. The twentieth case will be cholera. Only one case of disease in twenty is cholera. If the cholera germ comes they will have cholera. I have had experience with some cholera cures and observation of many and none are of value. 1 do not believe in all corn or all protein. Corn is a good feed. Oats, wheat and grass are valuable. A nig may either be pushed or starved for the first six months so much as to make it unprofitable for a feeder at any time afterward. Flesh is not always an evidence of health. Keep hogs clean inside. Worms are the greatest enemy of the hog. Keep them clear from lice and mange. You can not improve the animal without the forcing process, and this calls for looking more closely after the health. A perfect knowledge of any animal takes away chances of disease except in epidemic form. In nineteen cases out of twenty loss is due to ignorance. I do not believe it possible to so feed the hog as to make it proof against every dis- ease. The difficulty in the treatment of swine diseases arises from the con- fusion of symptoms. At times there may seem to be every symptom of cholera when the disease really does not exist. Good health at time of attack by cholera may reduce the proportion of loss. I think with good nursing I can save 35 per cent of those affected. This brought out Doctor Gay of the veterinary department at Ames, who gave as much information on the subject as has ever been presented at these meetings in the same number of words. Briefly he outlined the difference between cholera and swine plague. Cholera is a blood disease affecting the liver and intestines, and being closely allied to typhoid fever in the human family Swine plague is a lung disease, and similar to pneu- monia. He stated that the bureau at Washington, which was the most extensive as well as the best equipped of its kind in the world, had made a careful, extended and elaborate study of these diseases in all their forms and under many conditions and circumstances, and yet, with all these advantages and with every particle of known information on the subject at their com- mand, they were unable to offer any treatment that would cure. The researches of science could only offer preventive remedies. These are quarantine and a general healthful condition. Keep away from the yards all who may have any chance of carrying disease. 186 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Doctor Hammer said he could cure from sixty-five to seventy per cent of hogs affected with cholera and outlined his treat- ment. He said : Confine the hogs where there is a good circulation of air and where an even temperature may be maintained. Keep them on some sort of floor so that they can not absorb moisture from the ground. Give pure water. Give some soft laxitive and get the bowels open quick. Keep away all solid food. Make a liberal use of antiseptics and cathartics. Henry Wallace said that when the disease appeared in his herd he would kill one that showed symptoms, and if it proved to be cholera he would kill and burn everything under three months old, stop all food except grass and water, keep his aged sows and sell everything else that the shipper would take. In defense of the latter violation of State law, he said the law was a dead letter and that the stock yards inspector would be respon- sible anyway. He saved most of the brood sows and considered them as having additional value as immunes. His advice as to shipping was not well received. THE FUTURE CORN PRODUCER. "The Future Corn Producer" was the theme discussed by Henry Wallace, who said : The days of the cheap corn, as we knew it in the past, are over. I do not say that there will not be some cheap corn, but it will not last as it has lasted in the past. I do not know of any three years m my life in which in one of the years corn was not worth thirty cents a bushel in the crib, though it might be twenty or twenty-five cents some other years. The corn pro- ducing territory is limited on the west by altitude. Twenty- five hundred feet above the sea level the nights are too cold and corn can not be grown successfully, unless you get a very high price. On the north it is limited by temperature, and while the corn growing country will go north gradually, when you get north of Iowa fifty miles you are out of the corn producing country. They will have it there as a part of a rotation The rotation will maintain the fertility, and they need the corn, but it will be for home con- sumption. I might say that it is limited on the south by temperature and by the com root worms and various other evils that attend the crop. It is limited partly by the wearing out of the land, partly by the superior adapt- ability to pasture on the east. Take down the map of the United States and mark around the territory where corn is relatively cheaper and you will be surprised to see how small it is, including the northwestern and possibly the western portion of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, eastern Kansas and eastern Nebraska. We must grow just as much corn as before, not by extension of territory, but by the increased production per acre. I do not believe our acres will FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK— PART III. 187 increase, but decrease, but we can increase our yield per acre. That is, the right kind of man can do it — the corn producer that you asked me to talk about. He will have to have a rotation of crops in the first place. You can not keep on growing corn year after year on the same land, no matter how good it is, because the Lord won't let you. He sends the red ant and lice. Professor Holden has told you about the future corn producer, who is to grow seventy-five or one hundred bushels to the acre, and how to select the seed, and I regard his services as first-class. We are going to have better corn than I expected this year, but not very good. People are replanting their corn and I think many who brought seed from a distance are com- plaining of short stands. It looks easy to get 100 bushels to the acre. It is not so easy when one comes to grow 100 bushels of corn to the acre. It is a groundhog case. Our land is getting up to $75, $80 and $100 an acre. This price can not be kept up unless we put our brains in our corn work. Of course you must have good, rich land. You will only get that by rotation. You will have to do it. You must keep up the physical condition of the soil. You are asking aboiit fertilizers. You grow clover, keep up as good rotation as possible, keep your land in good condition physically and let the other fellow fret about fertilizers. If you don't, your son will have to fret about the same problems and you have left him a wornout land that should be given to him with valuable fertility. Men ask what is good for impaction of the stomach and cornstalk disease. It is another blessing that is sent to make you take care of what is given you. You must begin to do it now. There is no first-class pork that is grown in a corn-exporting country. It is all grown in corn-importing countries or countries that do not grow any more than for their own consumption. Den- mark has the finest pork in the market, and all the corn they have they import from this country, and they use it wisely. Irish bacon is very fine and you could not grow corn there to save your life. The nights are too cold. While they use corn intelligently, you can scarcely go to an Irish farmer who does not have American corn somewhere. So you find it in Scotland. They use it wiser than we do. Corn-fed bacon is not the best bacon, and when we give it to the markets of the world we must give more. We must quit using so much corn. It is so easy to go to the crib and throw out an ear of corn and the hogs like it so well that we keep feeding corn, and at last we have hogs so short, and it is because we have fed corn year after year. What we need to do is to grow fewer acres of corn and more corn, and have pasture for our hogs. They need something else and I have come to the conclusion that no man can raise hogs successfully unless he has an alfalfa field. I am not alfalfa crazy. I don't say grow it for pasture for cattle, or sheep, or for hay, but I do say that you ought to have a pasture for hogs. This spring I wanted to kick myself off the farm because I did not take my own medicine and did not do what I advised others to do — sow an alfalfa field to put hogs into, and for a month we did not have pasture we snould have had. Clover was late, oats and rape not big enough, and alfalfa ten inches high and the' hogs reveling in it. I have seen hogs growing out in Nebraska fed on five pounds of alfalfa and one pound of corn a day; brood sows through the winter that were bet- ter lookers and had larger litters than brood sows kept here at three times 188 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF* AGRICULTURE. as much cost. Feed your hogs alfalfa during the winter and save your corn and use the corn to better advantage. ': As we progress in the breeding busi- ness we find that we can grow corn that will approximate more and more each year the feeding value. That is, that we will by and by grow corn with about sixteen per cent protein. Alfalfa will produce a hog with more bone, more muscle, more vitality and better able to withstand the hardships of our climate than corn. It is my advice to you, rotate your corn properly, keep land in good condition. You will all be happier because high-priced land has made you better farmers than it has in the past. Land is going to get higher because man is greater than the farm, greater than the animal, and is the biggest thing on the farm. We were talking this evening about how to deal with hog cholera on the farm and I do not wish to be misunderstood. If I knew that there was cholera on the farm I would send for the butcher and have him take all of the brood sows with him. He knows when he takes them that if they have cholera he will lose money on it. You save something in caring for the fragments. You decrease the intensity of the disease. It would be possi- ble to entirely throw off the genuine hog cholera if farmers would get rid of hogs in advance. If a breeder, don't sell your stock. My rule was to give notice to all buyers that females are for sale and under this guarantee, that if within thirty days they die they are my hogs and if they do not die they are their hogs and they send the money. I think this policy would help a great deal if carried out and would be no violation of the law. No man wants to sell hogs that have cholera. The farther west the richer the alfalfa. And perhaps I should say here that you should have less of the protein contents. Why not have a clover pasture? You ought to have it, too, but you will get your alfalfa quicker and it will put better bone in your hogs. Use it for winter feed and you will be surprised what a nice crop of pigs and fine brood sows you will have. Rape is not as good as alfalfa, but it is good. It can not be grown as quickly. I think it is a splendid good thing. Blue grass pasture is hard to beat. Get a blue grass pasture and run your hogs, but have a few acres for brood sows and small pigs. Alsike is good on wet land, and once in awhile you get a seed crop that is almost as valuable as the land. The corn section raises the bacon for the world, but the bacon that brings the highest price in the market you do not raise and you won't raise it with corn. Use alfalfa. Hogs grown in Dakota, Canada and Minnesota will gain a higher price, judging by the tests that are made, than the hog that is raised on corn. An Irishman raises his pigs on what is left of what the children eat, and what is left of the skim milk after the children are through and then he gives him some corn— not very much. But the Irishman does not eat his own pigs. He sells them to the man that has the price and he goes and buys American pork. It is worth more per pound for him than his own. But the man who lives indoors wants the Irish meat that is lean and has not so much fat. We grow the lard for the world and it will be grown as long as we get the cheap corn. We grow the pork for the laboring man. If he has to work hard the fat meat keeps up the energy and muscle and that is what he needs. Pork is sometimes shipped over to Belfast and fixed up for Irish pork, but men who use it say that the Irish bacon is best. 1 have to give up that the Danish and Irish bacon is better. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 189 The aftermath of this talk led Mr. Munson to say : I have four pastures. One is blue grass, clover and timothy. My pigs run in that at will. I have three small pastures that I plow up about the first of April and put oats and rape in. The hogs can not keep out of that pasture. I have never told you before that my hogs run in rape up to their backs. 1 let you guess that. If you don't give them corn you have to give them that, i have yet to have the first hog that nad a sore ear in rape- 1 believe it is the smartweed and dog fennel that make sore ears. You will find that when the dew is on the smartweed if you rub it on your hand it will burn and I believe if there is none of it in the rape field the hogs will not have sore ears. The gate is always open and they go in when they want to. Further discussion of the rape problem brought out state- ments from different men, that, "Oats and rape are hard to beat;" "Professor Shaw and Professor Carlyle say they never heard of rape causing sore backs or sore ears;" "I have raised rape for five years and have never had any ill effects." THE TYPICAL CORN FOR FAT. On the subject of "The Typical Corn for Fat," H. C. Strater, of Monroe, Iowa, said : The typical corn for fat requires a typical seed, a typical seed bed and a typical cultivation. To begin with, in providing this typical seed, I would select the seed in the fall before hard freezing, and place the corn in a room where it does not freeze, keeping it there until thoroughly dry. I would select ears from ten to twelve inches long, with eighteen or twenty rows to the ear, with good depth of kernel, and kernel holding its width and thick- ness from cap to cob, the caps to be finely dented and the kernels to be uniform size after the tips and butts are taken off. The ears should be of uniform thickness. I would avoid too large a cob or too small a cob, as well as too large or too small kernels. I would not want a sleek or fliuty corn. Having selected a good, strong seed, the next thing is the typical seed bed . I would plow in the fall if stubble , or as early in the spring as possible, so all the weed seed would start to growing before planting time. The last of April or first ot May I would disk my corn ground at least twice, and then I would harrow (not drag, as I must say there is too much dragging' done and not enough harrowing). Having a good and uniform seed bed, the next thing is to look after the planter and see if it is in good order. If necessary it is better to spend a whole day to see that the plates are adjusted so as to drop a uniform number of kernels. I would prefer 300 kernels to 100 hills. As to depth of planting, 1 prefer three inches. If you have good strong seed and a good seed bed, do not be afraid to start the planter about the 5th of May, even if it is a little cool. I have never known strong seed, planted not over three inches deep, to fail. I would choose a kind of corn that matures in 110 days I would consider this a typical corn for fat. I 190 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. find that the average yield of corn for the State of Iowa is about thirty-two bushels per acre. I am certain that with a little care and better cultivation it could be increased to forty-two bushels per acre. THE ST. LOUIS FAIR. E. H. White, of Estherville, Iowa, the Iowa superintendent of live stock for St. Louis, was in attendance in the interest of that show and said : I would like to meet any of the swine breeders that expect to show swine at St, Louis. I can give you the idea of the commission, if you would like to hear it, or can talk to you privately about it without taking the time of others who are not especially interested. Senator Harriman asked me to come and answer any questions that might come up in connection with the exposition. It is not necessary for me to enter into any lengthy discussion of the relation of Iowa swine breeders to the show. Swine breeders from other States are coming to St. Louis, expecting to see the best hogs from Iowa, and if we don't make an exhibit that is worthy of the State they are going to be disappointed. The show is from October 3d to 15th, but the grounds will be open for the reception of swine on September 29th. It is not definitely decided, but it is the expectation to pay the expenses of Iowa exhibitors from the time they leave home until they return. The expenses will be freight and expenses of a man in charge, with forage while at St. Louis. I don't know that there is money enough to pa}^ all of it, but it will be done if there is money enough. Entries close for swine August 20th. It is the expectation of the commission to have some one representing them visit all the swine to be entered before it leaves home, so that if it is not accepted it will save transportation. The expenses will be paid of the stock that is accepted. There has not been any arrangement in regard to ship- ping, but if it is possible to combine and ship in that way it will be done, A partial list of those in attendance is as follows : G. A. Munson, Maxwell; F. F. Failor, Newton; C. L. Funk, Osceola; W. M. McFadden, Chicago; Watson B. Turner, Maxwell; O. W. Brown- ing, Newton ; W. Z. Swallow, Waukee ; George S. Prine, Oskaloosa ; H. C. Strater, Monroe; O. Osborn, Maxwell; T. B. Hammer, Des Moines ; A. J. Lytle, Oskaloosa ; L. H. Toberts, Paton ; W. A. Jones, Van Meter; W. S. Hart, Panora ; A. Baker, Colo; Joe Steward, Ames; WilsonRowe, Ames; Charles Swallow, Waukee; George Kuhn, Des Moines; B. C. Marts, Polk City ; A. M. Haggard, De Soto; C. C. Kiehl, Ladora ; H. F. Avery, Hale, Mo.; Silas Igo, Palmyra; W. J. Tittsworth, Avoca ; Ed. Wineland, Avoca; W. J. Rutherford, Ames; D, L. Howard, Jefiferson ; Barnett Wilson, Earlham ; L. O. Burt, Valley Junction; T. C. Ormiston, Valley Junction ; J. H. Watson, Madrid; Dr. Gay, Ames; E. H. White, Estherville ; J. A. Benson, Primghar ; Professor Holden, Ames, FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 191 MEETING OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EXPERT JUDGES. The annual meeting of the National Association of Expert Swine Judges took place in Des Moines, Iowa, June 15, 1904, with President D. L. Howard in the chair. In the absence of Secretary McTavish the duties of secretary were performed by C C. Carlin, of Des Moines. Mr. Howard opened by briefly referring to the history of the association and predicting a new era of usefulness. The Interstate Breeders' Association presented an invitation to meet with them at their annual session in February next, and it was accepted The talk of the previous meeting concerning a special meeting to take place at St. Louis during the swine show failed to result in any action. The committee appointed in 1902 to devise a more perfect means of applying score card practice failed to make any report, and the matter was not taken up. The examination of candidates for certificates as expert judges, resulted in the granting of one certificate only. This was issued to G. A. Munson, of Maxwell, Iowa, on Duroc- Jer- seys. The subject scored was a boar furnished by the Roycroft farm, of Des Moines. The examination on Duroc -Jerseys was also taken by T. J. Hitte, H. M. Yoder and S. R. McKelvie. The committee in charge were W. Z. Swallow, L. H. Roberts and W. A. Jones. A Chester White boar, of November farrow, furnished by the State farm at Ames, was scored by G. A. Munson and S. R. McKelvie, under the same committee, and no certificate issued. A Berkshire barrow, also from the State farm, was scored by T. J. Hitte, H. M. Yoder and S. R. McKelvie, and no certificate granted. The committee on Berkshires were L. H. Roberts, W. A. Jones, J. A. Benson. No other breeds were scored. Election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follows : President, D. L. Howard, Jefferson, Iowa; vice-presidents, Joe Steward, Ames, Iowa, and J. A. Benson, Primghar, Iowa; secretary and treasurer, W. D. McTavish. IOWA IMPROVED LIVE STOCK BREEDERS' ASSOCIATION, PROCEEDINGS OF THE THIRTY- SECOND ANNUAL MEETING. OFFICERS OF ASSOCIATION : E. M. Wentworth, President, ..... State Center G. H. BuRGE, Vice President . . . . . Mt. Vernon W. J. Rutherford, Secretary and Treasurer . . . Ames The thirty- second annual meeting of the Iowa Improved Stock Breeders' Association convened at Ames, Iowa, January 10, 1905, in connection with the Short Course at the Agricul- tural College. The evening programme was well filled with addresses by Dean Curtiss, Professor Guthrie, of the On- tario College of Agriculture, Professor Wilcox, of the Alabama Experimental Station, and others. At following sessions ad- dresses were delivered by Hon. L. H. Kerrick, of Illinois; Hon.. H. M. Letts, of Iowa, trustee of the First District, and Dean Day, of the Ontario Agricultural College. The address of Mr. Kerrick was substantially along the lines of that delivered be- fore the State Board of Agriculture and printed as part of. their- proceedings. The address of Dean Day follows: UTILITY IN STOCK BREEDING. G. E. Day. I wish to be understood as speaking in all sincerity when I say that it- gives me great pleasure to meet with the stock breeders of this State. There is no class of men with whom I would rather meet than with stock breeders ; there is no other business that appeals to me so strongly as the business of 13 194 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. the stock raiser, and there is no pursuit that counts more in streng:thening the very foundation of national greatness than the one in which you are engaged. You and I belong to different countries, and we see many things from different points of view, but today we meet upon a common ground ; we meet, not as American and Canadian, but as lovers of good stock. "One touch of nature makes the whole world kin," and a genuine love of live stock comes very near to being that magic touch. I trust that I have struck the keynote of the purpose of this gathering, and that the single aim may be to upbuild one of the greatest industries of this country. The business of the stock breeder is a peculiar one. The breeder has to deal with life, and all those mysterious possibilities that exist in the living creature have to be reckoned with in his operations. Stock breeding is not a mere question of cunning hands which model inert material to the whim of their owner ; the really great breeder must possess an intuitive genius that can pierce the curtain of mystery surrounding living creatures, lay hold of those hidden forces, and so direct them that the result is a creature ap- proaching very closely to the ideal he himself has set up. In short, the breeder is not a mere imitator, he is a creator. I have stated that the breeder sets up his own ideal, and I should like to emphasize this point. There can be no progress unless the breeder has a very clear ideal before him toward which he is working. He may never reach his ideal, but he must never lose sight of it. No matter how much money may be invested in the enterprise it will come to naught if the breeder has not a clearly defined object in view. He will meet with many things to try his faith, but he must not waver ; he will be frequently cast down, but he must not be discouraged. Difficulties, disappointments, and hope de- ferred are part of the heritage of the breeder, and he requires the highest class of courage to be able to stick to his guns and eventually bring victory out of what appeared to be certain defeat. If it is essential, therefore, to have an ideal, wecaa easily appreciate the importance of having a correct one, and the question arises, where shall we look for guidance in our search for an ideal ? History furnishes us many instances of breeders who made a mistake in this vital point, and, without exception, their work ended in a failure. Here is a man who stakes his all upon pedigree. It matters not how miserable the specimen, if its pedigree suits him, he will use it in his herd in preference to any other. Now, I do not wish to be understood as saying that pedigree is of no importance, far from it, but the man who considers pedigree alone is following a paper ideal, which will not stand the fires of public criticism. Here is another man who is afflicted with a color craze, and while color is certainly deserving of atten- tion, it is possible to fix such arbitrary standards that incalculable harm may result. Another man makes the head the basis of selection. If the head does not exactly suit him the animal has no charms for him. To hear him talk one might think that the head was the only part of an animal that had any value. Now, the head is not without importance ; it indicates char- acter, trueness to type, quality, and, to a certain extent, constitution and feeding qualities. At the same time, it is a mistake to allow the head to ob- scure every other part of the animal ; to condemn an animal because of a slight fault in its head, and give preference to one that is defective in a more vital point. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 195 It seems to me that every breeder should ask himself why he is breeding the animals of his choice. Is it to humor the whims of the few, or to meet the demands of the many ? If our work as breeders is to be a success, if it is to be a benefit to our country and a monument to ourselves, we must never lose sight of the requirements of the men who produce the market animal for the money that is in it. No matter how pure the blood, or how perfect the type from our own standpoint, if the animal does not meet all the requirements of the packer, if it is not suited to paying the rent and lifting the mortgage when placed in the hands of the average farmer, of what avail has been all our efforts. In short, the watchword of the truly successful breeder must be utility. Utility is the touchstone upon which each breeder's work will be tested. If our work stands the test, it will surely meet with recognition ; if it fails in the test, it will ultimately disap- pear and be forgotten. In setting up our ideal, therefore, utility is the first great requisite. In establishing our type we must admit nothing that will detract from utility. In selecting our breeding stock it must ever be uppermost in our minds. When we study pedigree, we must ask ourselves how much the blood lines represented in the pedigree are likely to enhance the utility of the stock we are breeding. Every step we take in our operations must be dominated by this one great consideration, and if we ever lose sight of the importance of utility we need never hope to have our names inscribed upon the roll of fame, which bears the names of the great breeders of live stock. Utility must be viewed from two standpoints. The butcher requires an animal that will give him the largest proportion of valuable meat, and the farmer requires an animal that will reproduce its kind in profitable numbers, and make rapid and economical gains. There would be little use in aiming to please the butcher if the animal did not meet the requirements of the farmer ; neither must we leave the butcher out of consideration if we would produce a really useful animal. In our breeding operations, therefore, we must keep both these men in view, and the breeding, feeding and killing qualities must each receive a due share of attention. I might illustrate this point by a reference to swine breeding in Canada. As you are no doubt aware, our conditions are such as to render it more profitable for us to pro- duce what is known as the bacon hog. Now, one important feature of a bacon hog is the length of side, but it is only one thing out of a number of requirements. Some of our men, however, have allowed this one point to run away with their judgment, and in their effort to secure length they have sacrificed constitution, feeding qualities, muscular development and general quality. lam sorry to say, also, that there are judges that will hang the first-prize ribbons on these slab sided, narrow-chested, long-legged, coarse- boned quality-lacking brutes simply because they possess length. Then we have men who run to the other extreme and think that in order to have an easy feeder they must have a fine-boned, short-bodied, fat-backed, heavy- shouldered, thick-necked tubby little pig, utterly useless for bacon purposes. It is not my intention to enter upon a description of the ideal bacon hog, but I should like to point out that both of these men have, lost sight of utility. The first has sacrificed nearly all that a feeder requires, and a good deal of what the packer requires ; whereas- the other has sacrificed nearly all that the packer requires and a good deal of what the feeder re- quires, because a really desirable bacon hog is also a good feeder's hog. 196 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. No doubt it will occur to some here to ask : ' ' What are the indications of utility?" I should like, therefore, to make a few suggestions in this connection, and i would mention the following as among the evidences of utility : 1. Constitution. — Without constitution progress is impossible. Con- stitution is indicated mainly by width and depth at the heart. A broad shoulder top does not necessarily indicate constitution, but we must look between and back of the fore-legs. Muscular development is also important, and a broad forehead and a good-sized bright eye are other indications of constitution. 2. Quality.— This is important from both the breeder's and consumer's standpoint. I like to see strong, clean, flinty-looking bone in the legs» The extremely fine bone for which some breeders are aiming has little to commend it. There is a relationship between bone and muscle, and when the bone is reduced beyond a certain point it results in a carcass that con- tains entirely too much fat for the amount of lean. Either extreme is un- desirable, and it is better to aim at a happy medium. The undue reduction of bone also tends to reduce size and lessen fecundity. Other points under quality are general smoothness of form, thickness and evenness of fleshing, mellowness of skin and fineness of hair. 3. Fecundity. — This is a point that is frequently overlooked, and yet it is one of prime importance. These little, short-bodied, fine-boned, roly- poly animals are rarely prolific mothers. The good breeding female must have a good-sized, roomy frame, and this calls for a fair share of bone. Coarseness is undesirable, but strength of bone and a good length of body are absolutely essential. The mammary glands should also be well devel- oped. 4. General Conformation.— In general appearance the animal should show a proportionate development of the different parts, and it should meet the requirements of the butcher and the consumer by carrying flesh of the right kind and possessing large development of those parts which have the highest market value. 5. Character. — This is something that is hard to define, and yet the experienced breeder can recognize it at a glance and knows its importance. It implies conformation to the best type of the breed, but it goes still fur- ther. Character in the male implies a bold, impressive carriage and general appearance. He is a male, and he shows it at every point and in every mo- tion. In the female we look for the reverse. She should be dignified in her carriage, but there is a femininity about her general appearance and bearing which indicates a prolific and indulgent mother. 6. Pedigree.— A good many people are inclined to look upon pedigree as something distinct from utility. I can not fall in with this view when breeding animals are under consideration. I have already referred to the man that follows a paper ideal, but there is another man who sneers at pedi- grees, and his case is not much better than the other. I have frequently been asked which is of greater importance, individuality or pedigree ? The question does not admit of a definite answer, for it is largely a question of degree, but I can say that neither is complete without the other; that is to say the desirable breeding animal should possess individual merit as well as good pedigree. If the pedigree of a good animal contains the names of a FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART III. 197 number of animals noted for the excellence of their progeny from a utility standpoint, then such a pedigree is a strong indication of utility in the animal in question, because the tendency is for ' 'like to produce like." Un- fortunately, however, there are always some degenerate ofifspring from the most illustrious parents, and to breed from a degenerate merely on account of its pedigree would not be holding the proper balance between pedigree and individuality. It is right here that we encounter one of the greatest difficulties in breeding, and perhaps I may be pardoned for using an illus- tration which is familiar to many of you for the purpose of emphasizing ray argument for utility. Thomas Bates was a skillful breeder of Shorthorn cattle. He was a staunch advocate of utility, and built up a herd whose fame was world-wide. When he passed from the scene, certain wealthy men got possession of representatives from some of his choicest families. Utility was cast to the winds and pedigree became the rage. Fabulous prices were paid for pedigrees and the merest excuses for Shorthorns that went with them, until some of the best Bates' tribes were nearly ruined. In the meantime a canny Scotch Quaker began breeding Shorthorns up in Aberdeenshire. Amos Cruickshank knew how to value a pedigree, but he wanted something more. He aimed to produce a quick-maturing, thick- fleshed beast that would help the tenant farmer pay his rent, and he stuck to his iob in spite of the ridicule heaped upon the so-called plain Scotch cattle by the breeders of fashionably bred sorts. You all know the ultimate result: Utility carried the day, and the despised Scotch Shorthorn climbed to the topmost rung of the ladder of fame. Thomas Bates is dead, but his name still lives. But what of those who lost sight of utility and went mad over pedigree ? Nobody knows or cares what became of them or of their cattle. Amos Cruickshank's work is over, but his name will endure as long as Shorthorn cattle are bred, and why ? There is only one answer, he was a man who succeeded in evolving a useful type of cattle In this great country you have the names of many men upon the breeder's roll of fame, men who have bred horses, men who have bred cattle, men who have bred sheep and swine. Many of these men are living today, and probably some of them are before me now. I ask you to delve down to the foundations of the monument they have erected by their works and you will find, supporting the whole structure, the bedrock, utility. Let us, as breeders, cast fads and fancies to the winds, and let our watch- word be utility first, utility last, utility always. At the business meeting it was decided to request the State Board of Agriculture to grant a suitable place, the live stock pavillion preferred, for an evening programme during the week of the State Fair, when a programme will be presented of special interest to the breeders and exhibitors of show animals. Dean Curtiss, Professor Rutherford and the president were appointed a committee to consult with the State Board in regard thereto. On motion the meeting adjourned until Thursday of State Fair week. PART IV. PROCEEDINGS OF THE TWENTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE IOWA STATE DAIRY ASSOCIATION HELD AT MASON CITY, IOWA, FEBRUARY 1, 2, AND 3, 1905. OFFICERS FOR 1905. S. B. Shilling, President ..... Mason City W. B. Barney, Vice-President .... Hampton P. H. KiEFFER, Secretary ..... Manchester F. M. Brown, Treasurer ..... Cedar Rapids ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF THE IOWA STATE DAIRY ASSOCIATION. We, the undersigned citizens of the State of Iowa,. whose names are subscribed to these Articles of Incorporation, have associated ourselves together for the purpose and upon the terms and by the name herein stated under and in pursuance of the laws of the State of Iowa. First.— The name of this corporation shall be the Iowa State Dairy Association, Second.— The purpose for which this corporation is formed is to promote the dairy interests within the State of Iowa and everything pertaining thereto and connected therewith. Third. —The principal place of business of this corporation shall be in the city of Des Moines and State of Iowa. Fourth. — The duration of this corporation shall be fifty years from and after the acknowledgment and recording of these Articles of Incorporation, unless sooner dissolved by a majority of the members of this corporation. Fifth. — There is no capital stock, nor are there any shares of stock in this corporation. 200 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Sixth. — The officers of this corporation shall be one president, one vice- president, one secretary and one treasurer, who shall be elected at the annual meetings of this corporation from the members thereof, and whose powers, authority and duties shall be fixed by the by-laws of this corporation. Seventh.— The names of the officers of this corporation for the ensuing year are as follows, namely: President, O. T. Denison ; vice-president, Peter G. Henderson ; secretary, C. L. Gabrilson ; treasurer, S. H. Sibley. Eighth. — That the private property of the meimbers of this corporation shall be exempt from corporate debts. Ninth. — Fees for membership and annual dues for membership will be assessed as the corporation by its by-laws shall determine, which fees and dues will be applied for promoting the purposes for which this corporation is formed. Dated at Waverly, Iowa, November 12, 1891. O. T. Denison, S. H. Sibley, A. C. TuppER, E. C. Bennett, W. L. Newton, C. L. Gabrilson. BY LAWS OF THE IOWA STATE DAIRY ASSOCIATION. Section 1. The name of this Association shall be the Iowa State Dairy Association, as provided by the articles of incorporation filed with the Secre- tary of State. officers . Section 2. The officers shall be president, vice-president. Secretary and treasurer; said officers constituting the executive committee. election. Section 3. All officers shall be elected by ballot. A majority vote of the membership present shall be required to constitute an election; said elec- tion being a special order of business at 11 a. m. Thursday session of the convention. Their term of office shall be for one year from the first of January following. Section 4. The place of holding the annual convention shall be selected and the date fixed by the executive committee, said committee to be com- posed of president, vice-president, secretary and treasurer. Section 5. That every butter maker who attends the convention shall be expacted to ssnd or bring one package of not less than twenty pounds of butter from the factory where he is employed at the date of convention, same to be sold by the Association and the proceeds thereof to be used to pay express charges and membership fee of the exhibitor, the balance to be donated to the Association. And that there be but one class of creamery butter recognized in the contest of the exhibitors at the convention of this Association which shall include both separator ani gathered cream. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. 201 MEMBERSHIP. Section 6. Any person may become a member of this Association upon the payment of a membership fee of $1. The annual dues shall be $1, pay- able to the treasurer on or after January 1st of each year. Said dues must be paid before any member can become an exhibitor or exercise the right to vote. COMMITTEES . The president shall appoint the following committees of three members ■each: Reports.— To whom shall be referred the annual reports of the president and secretary. Resolutions. — To whom shall be referred all resolutions, without debate. Finance . —Whose duty shall be to audit the accounts of the secretary and treasurer; to report at the evening session, Thursday. Z(?^i5/^/«r. o 1 6 I Abbott, Frank O., Mt. Etna Anderson, M., Audubon Adams, A. H. , Storm Lake Allard, G. F. Newell Armstrong, C. R., Plymouth Adams, L. C , Lone Kock , Bergsather, R. S., Northwood... Borland, G. W., Oelweln Beach, C.N., Alpha . Brunner, Frank, Charles City — Banta, A. E., Wheatland Brant, C. E. Fairbank Buehrer, O. H. , Alta Vista Bakken, G. A., Ridgeway BuUis, H. R. , Cedar Rapids Bentz, A. H.. Delhi Brunner, J. J., Charles City Baitinger, John, Ladora Barker, J. A. , Monona Blood, Wm. E. , Cedar Rapids.... Barlow, Iver, Calmar Bristol, G. A. , Primghar Burt, RoyS. , Terril Barkelew. W. S., Clarksville Balf ang, Henry, Rockwell City. . . Capper, C, H. , Westgate Crabb, W. R., Greeley Clark, T. A , West Bend Carr, Cecil E. , Frederika Churchill, B. R. , Royal Conway, C. R. , Garner Chrlstensen, Adolph, Jesup , Crocker, H. M. , Alta Cagley, J. W. , Nashua Colbert, H. H. , Menlo Cochrane. A., Stuart Capper, Ed, Devon Doleshal, A. J., Bancroft Dawson, J. F. , Masonville Durkee, A. F. , Denison De Hoogh. D. J., Boyden Dahlen, N. O., Tenold Davis, C. W., Ashton Driver, D. L. , Burt Enveldsen, M. E., Gilbert villa.... Erb, R. J., Arbor Hill Edwards, L. S., Lamont Elliott, Charles T. , Cascade Evans, Elzie, Bradgate Feldman, J. B. , Dyersville Forrester, H. E., Fredericksburg Fisher. F. H. , Greene Frank, Ben, Titonka Fjetland, G M. , Ellsworth Finnegan, John, Jerico Farnham, J. E. , Rockford Fisher, N. W. , Mason City 40 25 14 10 5 38K 25 15 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 '6%y. 25 141^ 10 5 ■diyo 25 15 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 il 25 15 10 5 40 25 15 10 40 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 393I 24K 15 10 5 25 14 10 '6sy. 25 15 10 5 '6sy. 25 15 10 5 say 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 Wo 5 39 25 15 w. 5 'day 241^, 15 10 5 38 25 15 w. 5 'diy 25 15 10 5 my 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 371^ 25 uy 10 5 36 25 15 10 5 iiy 25 15 10 5 395^ 393^ 393^ 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 39V^ 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 'diy 25 15 10 5 38 25 i^y 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 38 25 143^ 10 41^ 38 25 133^ 10 5 3SJ^ 381/0 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 373^ 25 15 10 5 373^ 361^ 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 my 25 15 10 5 40 243^ 14% 10 5 38^0 25 15 10 5 37^2 my 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 37^ 25 14 10 5 25 15 10 5 40 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 391.^ 25 143^ 10 5 39 25 143/0 10 5 my 25 15 10 5 my 25 15 10 5 my 25 16 10 5 94 93^ 93 93 93 9(i 95 95 94 94 93^ 93^2 9bi^ 933,' 93^ 93 92>i 92>^ 923^ 92 92 92 91 963>^ 94>^ 94>^ 943^ 94>^ 94 94 ^23^ 92>^ 92 92 91>^ 931^^ 933^ 93 923^ T<^ 913^2 91^^ 94 93^ 92^^ mi 913^ 95 94 94 93^ 92^ 92>^ 220 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. SCORE IN DETAIL-CONTINTED. Name and Address. o >% i o 43 CD 6 Frees, A. J., Cedar Falls Fosse, O. A . Ridgway Gudvangen, Eric A., Vinje (Jehrls, William, Germantown... Gibbs, L. J. , Waucoir a Goodrich, DeWitt, (-Joldfield li^oodnow, M. J., Correctionville. Hart, N. C. . Providence Heileman, Fred. Hamlin Hadley, R. R. , Zearing Homan, E. H. , Artesian Herman, A. J., Maple Leaf Hes^-ell, F. W. , Waterville Heathman, George, Plover Helfter, G. L. , Osage ige Hansen, H. B., Dunbar. Howard, F. E. , Dale Hoopman, E. A., Chester Hicks, O. W. . Guernsey . Hollenbeck, H. F. , Wesley Heffren, George H., McGregor Iliff, B C, St. Ansgar Johnson, W. B. , Arlington Jensen, P.. Exira Janes, Fred, Charles City Jorgensen, Soren, Fredsville Jensen, M . . Harlan Knudsen, Nick, Emmetsburg Koneke, H. C. , Hudson Kuennen, Ben H. , St. Lucas Kucker. Wm. D., Fairville Kinsler E. A., Durant .. Keachie, James L. , Dexter Klemesrud, Sig. , Osage, R. F. D. 2. Kinney. A. R , Ottawa. Minnesota. . KnietGeo. H. , Minkler Kindberg, A., Dike Laird, S. W. , Walker Ladage, H. C . , Buck Creek Langquist, G. f\, Saude Landis, A. L . , Colesburg Landis, George, New Vienna Lehman, Fred, Coggon Loomis, G . R. , Dumont Martin, hiarry. New Sharon Miller, J. O. , Milford Morck, Christ, Jewell Junction McNfary, H. L.. Britt McCaffrey, J. E. , Earlville Nielson, J. P. , Brayton Nelson, B. S. , Swea City Nagel, W. J., Scarville Odell, F. L.. Greenfield Opperman, H. H., Fairbanks Pollard, L. A. , Sand Spring Peterson, P. N. , Rake Peterson, L. C. Story City Post, C . C. , Maquoketa Peterson, S., New Hampton Pettibone, H. W. , Fenton Riley, Frank, Postoria Rohde, C. J., Manchester Remington, A. L., Ruthven Ross, J. J., Iowa Falls Richards, Lewis, Forest City Storvick. T. A., Lake Mills Spohn, A. J., Miles Squires, B. O. , Manchester Shettler, H. C, Baxter Sheldon, D. E. , Waverly Soles, Byron T., Fern , Shellman, F. W. , Ayrshire Steussi, G. , Thorpe , 371^ 25 143^ 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 41 25 15 10 5 401.^ 25 15 10 5 38>^ 25 15 10 5 39 25 1434 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 d9y. 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 39 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 38^^ 25 15 10 5 40 25 mA 10 5 '6sy. 25 15 ^y 38 25 15 10 5 37^ 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 37 J^ 24H 15 10 5 37 24^^ 15 10 5 35 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 40 25 15 10 38 25 15 10 5 373^ 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 iti 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 3S 25 15 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 mv. 25 15 10 5 mv. 25 15 10 5 39H 25 13 10 5 38 24^4 15 10 5 39^^ 25 13 10 37 25 uy 10 5 42 25 uy 10 5 41 25 15 10 5 40 25 15 10 381^ 25 15 10 5 38 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 38 24^4 15 9% 5 39 25 15 10 5 25 15 10 5 39J^ 25 i3y. 10 5 39 25 15 10 373^ 25 15 10 5 40 ?5 15 10 5 mv. 25 uy 10 n 383^ 39)^2 25 25 uy lo 10 10 5 5 ^y. 25 143^ 10 5 39K 25 15 10 5 my. 25 15 10 5 mi 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 37K 25 15 10 5 363^ 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 37J^ 25 15 10 5 37K 25 15 10 5 37 25 15 10 5 37V> 25 143^ 10 5 42^' 25 15 10 5 41 25 uy 10 5 40 25 15 10 5 40 25 15 10 5 39I0 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 39 25 15 10 5 38^ 25 15 10 5 FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV SCORE IN detail-Continued. 221 Name and Address. o sx s o 1 & Smith, S. F., Columbus, III Seim, Theodore N. , Deoorah Snyder, A. W., Dickens Schreiber, E. , North Washington.. Sorenson, Peter, Exira Saveraid, P. J.,' Huxley Stratton. Q. R, Curlew Stephenson, F. W . Dundee Sherman, Frank, Fayette Trimble, N H., Alden Thuessen, Peter, Kimballton Thomas, Guy, G-oodell Talle, A. C. , Northwood. Tysver, L. M. , Owl Lake Teeole, J. J. , Inwood Taff, John M. , Guthrie Center Umbreit. B. W. , Clarion Vargason, E. M. , Hazleton Vind, A., Mitchell. 8. D Vanderham, C. H. , Kanawha Winter, Theo. , Williamsburg , Wendt, H. D. , Hopkinton Wiese, R. , Prairie Rose . Walsh, Ed, Whittemore Woodsworth, C. L . Waterloo Wagner, Robert. Randalia Wester, W. , Hobart Yant, O. P. . Manning. Yorkshire Creamery Co. , Ottumwa Zubrod, J. M. , Boyd P. Wyman, Jacksonville No. 2 No. 1 No. 10 No. fi No. 164 No. 149 393^ 39 38 37>^ 37^ 371/2 37 373/2 40 39j^ 373^ 37 V4 37 373^ 37 373^ 39 3S^ 383^ 413^ 41 383^ 383-> 373^ 38 39 36 37 373^ 31 34 36 32^ 34 33 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 243^ 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 243ii 24 ' 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 233^ 14 13^ 14 15 15 15 143^ 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 14K 143^ 14 15 15 14 14>^ 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 143^ 15 13 15 15 10 5 10 5 10 6 10 5 10 5 10 6 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 iO 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 93^ 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 9H 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 1(> 5 93^ 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 es3^ 93 93 93 92^ 92 92 92 95 943/2 923^ 92>^ 92 92 913^ 91>^2 94 933^ 92 96 96 933^ 933^ 923^ 92 91 >^ 94 91 92 92 853^ 89 89 87 89 863^ T. A. Storvick, Lake Mills, wins gold medal, score 91}^. N. H. Knudsen, Emmetsburg, wins silver medal, score 97^4^. Meeting adjourned until eleven o'clock A. m. Thursday. Thursday, February, 2, 1905. Meeting called to order at 11 o'clock a. m., by the president, Mr. S. B. Shilling. The President: Our session this forenoon, as you are aware, is for the purpose of election of officers. Our constitution pro- vides for this, that on the middle day of the session at a certain hour, the election must take place. The Vice-President, Mr. W. B. .Barney: Gentlemen, the first thing is the election of president, and nominations are now open for the presidency. Who will you have for your future president? 222 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Mr. Wright: Mr. Chairman, this is the only time at a dairy convention that I get a chance to make the speech that I want to. I am very glad to know that this association has been so successful' for the last several years, and I believe it is a good scheme to continue the good work. I believe further it is a good scheme to continue the good officers we have here and, therefore, Mr. Chairman, I nominate to succeed himself for the ensuing year Mr. S. B. Shilling. Nomination duly seconded. Mr. Wentworth: I move that the nominations be closed and the secretary be instructed to cast the ballot of this conven- tion for Mr. Shilling. The secretary having cast the ballot of the convention for Mr. Shilling, he was declared elected president of the Iowa State Dairy Association for the ensuing year. Mr. Shilling : I wanted to talk before, but I was not going to say a single word to you that I am not going to say now. It seems to me that it is presumptions on my part to stand here and accept that office again; I asked, and I asked sincerely that I might be allowed to retire at this time. I don't want you to understand for one minute that it has not been a pleasure for me to serve you. It certainly has. I have been earnest in my endeavors to uphold the dairy interest of Iowa. I am going to accept this office, but it is only to be on one condition, and if I had done last year what I am about to do now I feel that T would not be in the position of accepting this office again. If I accept it now it is only on the condition that you do not ask me to accept it another year. Mr. Wentworth: The gentleman is out of order. There is not another man in this association that will give his time and S500 of his money that I know of, and we can not afford to let him escape. Mr. Shilling: I thank you, gentlemen, you don't know how much. I wish 1 could thank you in words strong enough to ex- press the feelings I have for this honor you have again conferred upon me. The only thing I can say to you is that I will make the same .promise that I did a year ago — that you are going to have the very best that is in me. That is all I can do for you. Gentlemen, I thank you and I accept the office, but I want it to be understood that this is the last time, and I feel that if I had made that declaration earlier you would not have asked me to except it another year. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. 223 Vice-President Barney : I do not know that this convention- has any promises to make to Mr. ShilKng, and I think it would be well to have it understood that we have made him no promises. The President: The next in order is vice-president. Who will you have for your vice-president? Professor McKay : I take great pleasure in nominating Mr. W. B. Barney, who has served so w^ell in the past, and I hope will in the future. Mr. Barney: I would like to say that there are a great many other gentlemen in this convention who have not had this office two years. I have held it for two years. They are as much entitled to it as I, and probably would serve you better than I. Therefore I think it would be well to have some one in my place. On motion, duly made and seconded, the secretary cast the ballot of the convention for Mr. W. B. Barney, and he was de- clared elected vice-president of the Iowa State Dairy Association for the ensuing year. Mr. Barney: In accepting this office I do so considering the fact that you have elected Mr. Shilling. He has generally done all the w^ork, and I don't know but I should feel rather reluctant in accepting if you had elected a new man in his place, but I accept the office in view of the fact that Mr. Shilling has shoul- dered a good share of it before this. He is a good worker and enthusiastic man, and I feel that I have no. great amount of re- sponsibility with him as side partner. Gentlemen, I thank you. The President: The next in order is the office of secretary. Who will you have for your future secretary? Mr. Anderson, of Oelwein : In behalf of every man that milks a cow in Iowa, every man that makes butter in Iowa, every creamery that is open for buttermaking in Iowa, I take pleasure in nominating Mr. P. H. Kieffer, of Manchester. Mr. Gude, of New York: In making the nomination for secretary, Mr. Anderson overlooked one feature, and in be- half of the commission men, the dealer who sells the butter made out of the milk from the cows of Iowa, I second the nomi- nation of Mr. Kieffer. On motion, duly made and seconded, the vice-president was instructed to cast the ballot of the convention for Mr. Kieffer, which being done he was declared elected secretary for the as- sociation for the coming year. 224 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Mr. KiEFFER : Mr. President, I feel somewhat like the guest did at a banquet when called upon to make a speech. He said, "I feel — I feel — I feel — that I can lick any man in the house." I thank you gentlemen for the confidence you have shown in me and I will do the best of my ability to serve you the coming year. The President : I have not told a story at these conventions since I have been president, but that story of Kieffer's puts me in mind of one and I want to tell it because I heard it in North Dakota recently. It was an Irishman made that same kind of a statement; he said that he could lick any man in Fargo. Pretty soon he enlarged upon that and said he could lick any man in that county, and at last he included the entire district of North Dakota. A man . took him up and licked him, and when the Irishman was asked about it he said all the trouble was he included too much territory. The President: The next office is that of treasurer. Who will you have for your treasurer ? Mr. Neitert : Mr. President, I desire to place in nomination for this office a man who has been connected with this associa- tion for many years, who has been a faithful attendant, and who has been the advance agent in its behalf and its best interests, traveling over this State from the four points of the compass for many years He has worked for us at all times and held out the olive branch of peace ; he is always ready to meet you with the " glad hand," no matter how severe the weather or how heavily he may have been taxed by his many friends calling on him at once. He is a man that is faithful, a man that can be trusted, and a man that will bring as much vigor and life to the association as anyone that appears to my mind. In behalf of the best interests of this association, I am pleased to place in nomination Mr. Frank Brown, of Cedar Rapids. Mr. Wentworth: I would like to say just a word in con- nection with this matter. I was particularly pleased at the nomination made by my friend Neitert in presenting the name of Mr. Brown. I, too, have been a participant in those olive branches, but it was marked "Cremo" on the box and "Cremo" on the wrapper, and in view of the fact that we are all working for the uplift of this association, I desire to second that nomina- tion, and hope that the brand of olive branches he hands out next year will not have "Cremo" on it. I take pleasure in sec- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. ZZ ending Mr. Brown's nomination; and I also desire to move that the nominations be closed and the secretary cast the ballot of the association for Mr. Brown. The secretary having cast the ballot of the convention Mr. Brown was declared elected treasurer of the Iowa State Dairy Association for the ensuing year. Mr. Brown : Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen — I feel a great deal like my friend Keiffer did. But I want to say that my friend Wentworth, who seconded my nomination, never got any of the "Cremo" brand, but if he did happen to, he gave them to the shippers. He did not smoke them himself. I want to thank the convention for the honor bestowed upon me and I want to say that if I can serve you as well as our friend Leighton has, I will be perfectly satisfied and I know that you will. Thank you. Mr. Wentworth : Mr. President, I would like to have the by-laws as relating to the salary of the secretary read. I would say in explanation of that, that Mr. Kieffer and Mr. Shilling, Mr. Kieffer in particular, has done more for the dairy industry of the State of Iowa than any man that has ever occupied that office, and that without disparagement to any of his valued pre- decessors. The State of Iowa, as Mr. Shilling and myself very well know, is somewhat poverty stricken. I spent twenty -nine days as chairman of the legislative committee of Iowa within the past two years, in an effort to get some recognition for this associa- tion. We succeeded in getting a little better appropriation and a little better recognition of the work at the college, but we were unable to get anything for the direct interests of the association. Mr. Kieffer has worked long, faithfully and well for your in- terests. We can not get from the legislature before another year anywhere near a sufficient salary to fairly recompense him for the work he has done. You, gentlemen, are the ones -most directly interested in the work Mr. Kieffer does, and I think one hundred and fifty dollars' salary which you have been paying him is altogether to small. If Iowa is in a bad condition finan- cially it is a pleasure for you to know that this association is not, and, if there is nothing in the by-laws in connection with this that would forbid our introducing the motion to strike out 15 226 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. the words "One hundred and fifty" and substitute therein the words "Two hundred and fifty", I will make that motion at the present time. I have done this without consultation with anybody. There is nobody in the hall or in the State that had any idea this was to be done. I think we owe it to Mr. Kieffer; I think the asso- ciation owes it to Mr. Kieffer as a mark of appreciation for the work that he has done for them. Member: Make it three hundred instead of two hundred and fifty dollars. Mr. Wentworth : That is a good idea, and I move that the salary of the secretary of the Iowa State Dairy Association be made three hundred dollars per year. Mr. Neitert: I wish to speak upon this matter. I will sec- ond that motion in order to get it before the house. I am speak- ing from the fact that many do not realize the work done by our friend and secretary, Mr. Kieffer. While the State is not pov- erty stricken, I must admit that a man who is worth so much for your interests, who has refused higher salaries, who is a public benefactor, is working for the State for the paltry sum of $1,200 a year. Mr. Wentworth : We only managed to give him that this year. He has only been drawing that since July. Mr. Neitert: It has been only by the great interest he has taken in the dairy industry of your State that it has been pos- sible for him to do this. As I take it, this amendment is not offered only as paying for the labors he may perform for this association. I know that in many instances in this State we have men who could command higher salaries than the State pays them in important positions here, men who are advancing the agricultural interests of the State and marking out the path which leads to the way of success, who are helped and assisted by private contributions from benevolent citizens of the State that we may retain those men as educators. I only bring this up, and it mortifies me to have to say it, that our State is so parsimonious that it will not pay our men the salaries they are worth and could command in other places. I suppose this was in the mind of our friend Wentworth when he advised the salary of our secretary advanced, and I am pleased to know that our association can easily give this increase in his salary. That will help to retain him in the field for the work he has been ap- FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. 227 pointed to do. The field is great and large, and I am ashamed to be compelled to state that other States, and younger States, are far outreaching us in this line of work in assisting the dairy interests and getting instructions into dairy sections as to the betterment of their calling. The State of Iowa only furnishes a few men, three with the dairy commissioner, and the second man only recently. I will say that I have had some experience in the creamery and butter business, for over twenty-five years in the creamery business and for thirty-five years in the butter ■ business, so I do not assume anything for myself, but I have a meager knowledge of what proficiency, or what ability a man should have who goes into the field for instruction. I have never, in my opinion, met a man that measures up to Mr. Kieffer in point of ability, because he has a thorough ac- quaintance, in a practical and scientific manner, with these great interests, the manufacture of dairy products ; he has helped so many patrons of the creamery and of the dairy ; he is well poised in mind ; he is careful and well balanced. He realizes every man's rights, no matter how high or low in wealth they are all the same to him ; he realizes this is a field where they have to do the work in a careful and systematic manner; he has the ability to accomplish the desired end. When we have such a man I am pleased to second the motion of our friend Went- worth, to assist him all that is within our power, and it is within our power to grant him this aid. Mr. Kieffer : Just one minute. I appreciate the kind words that have been said, but the financial end of this association will not stand for any increase in the secretary's salary. It is getting harder for you to raise this contribution, and it is going to put the office in a place where the best man may not be able to get it; it is going to put it in a place where it may be a finan- cial benefit to some one to work for it that would not be prop- erly qualified, and in the end our association would suffer. I think you have this salary as high as the association can afford to pay, which is one hundred and fifty dollars. I know what it is to raise these contributions and instead of contributions be- coming larger every year, it is more difficult to raise and keep up with the previous year. I have not figured it up, but I do not think our contributions this year will quite tally up to a year ago, still we have probably more money in the treasury ; but this money in the treasury is money that belongs to the butter- 228 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. makers ; it is from butter they contributed from their creameries and I don't see how the association can vote this money to any officer. I hope that this wave of eloquence that has just spread over you by these two gentlemen has not carried you away, and you will be your own calm selves and do what is best for the as- sociation, and I do not think you can afford to raise the secre- tary's salary. I thank you for your attention. Mr. Wentworth : Without calling directly for the financial report of this association, I wish to make this point: It is the buttermaker's money. It is the buttermakers who are voting the salary to the best friend they have, and I submit, with all due respect to Mr. Kieffer, that they have a perfect right to do what they wish with their own. Mr. Knudsen: There is not a buttermaker in the State of Iowa, I think, that does not appreciate what Mr. Kieffer has done for us, and who is not willing to allow that advance. Just try the buttermakers and I think you will find it out. The motion, having been duly made and seconded, was unanimously carried that the secretary's salary be increased from one hundred and fifty to three hundred dollars per year. Mr. Smith, of Michigan : 1 would like to say a word. I come from the State of beautiful peninsulas, where no man is ever handicapped by having a full pocketbook ; but I want to say our State does not treat its State Dairy Association the way Iowa does. We have a regular continuous appropriation ; they expect to appropriate at least a thousand dollars, besides publishing the reports of the State Dairy Association. I am astonished that you have such a fund in your treasury. That fund comes from contributions, and if this association is anything it is a State Dairy Association and your legislature ought to take care of it. The President : We have one paper on the program for this forenoon "Starters and Cream Ripening" by W. S. Smarzo, Assistant Dairy Commissioner. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. 229 STARTING AND CREAM RIPENING. \V. S. SMARZO, ASSISTANT DAIRY COMMISSIONER. There is no longer a question as to the advisability of using a good com- mercial starter; in fact, all concede that it is absolutely necessary for best results. Not many years ago the starter was not considered necessary in carrying on the process of cream ripening; and none, except a few butter- wakers who were considered cranks, troubled themselves about its use. These gentlemen have since demonstrated, however, that it takes a good starter to make a fine grade of butter. We are now living in a different age, and our methods of creamery management have undergone great changes. The cranks have found out that a commercial starter properly used helps to control the cream, so they may be able to make a high and more uniform grade of butter. I could cite you to several buttermakers whom we have been able to get interested in commercial starters, and by its use have raised their premiums from one-half to one and one-half cents above the quoted market. These very buttermakers were at first opposed to using a starter, but since they have become familiar with its use, would not think of making a pound of butter without using a good commercial starter. I will briefly go over the making of starters. Originally speaking, all the different kinds of starters are included under the names ' 'natural" and "commercial." The latter is prepared from a supposed pure culture of bacteria obtained from the laboratory; the former includes a great many kinds of dairy products, which are supposed to contain a preponderance o^ those germs which are involved in the production of desirable flavors. A good natural starter is usually obtained by selecting into sterilized jars a number of different samples of the best milk coming into the creamery. The samples are allowed to sour naturally at about seventy degrees, and the sample which coagulates into a smooth, uniform curd and has a pleas- ant, mild acid taste, is selected and used as a mother starter. When inocu- lated into a large sample of selected pasteurized milk, cooled to, and kept at, a temperature of about seventy degrees, until it begins to coagulate, it will usually produce a good starter. The best method to prepare a new commercial starter is to pasteurize a pint or a quart of the best milk you can find. This can be done by placing the milk in a sampling jar; then place the jar in a pail of cold water; then heat the water until the milk is heated to 180 or 190 degrees. It should be kept in this condition twenty minutes; then the hot water should be drawn off and cold water turned on until the milk is at a temperature of 85 or 90 degrees; it should then be inoculated with a pure culture and then cooled down to 65 or 70 degrees, and held at that tempera- ture until it begins to coagulate; and at this stage it is in the best condition for using, as the germs are more active. Always use enough mother starter so that your starter will thicken in about twenty hours. Many buttermakers still claim that they can obtain satisfactory results from the old method, or so-called homemade starter, or even none at all; and, while under the most favorable conditions it is possible to produce a good commercial butter with- out the aid of a commercdal starter, it is never safe to depend upon these primitive ideas and methods. 230 iowa^'department of agriculture. An additional value of the commercial starter is its value in helping to overcome undesirable flavors and produce a more -uniform and higher grade of butter. It is but the plain truth that, never in the creamery business has ability been as necessary as it is now; and I earnestly hope that every buttermaker in the State of Iowa will become interested in the starter and see if we can not raise the standard of Iowa butter to a high mark,— one that no other State in the Union can reach. DISCUSSION. Mr. Smith: How widely used are commercial starters in Iowa? Mr. Smarzo : About thirty per cent of the creameries, or about one-third are using commercial starters. Mr. Smith: What per cent are gathered cream creameries in the State? Mr. Smarzo: About seventy-five per cent are gathered cream creameries. Mr. Smith : Do you mean to tell me that any gathered cream creamery undertakes to make butter in Iowa without the commercial starter? Mr. Smarzo : A good many do not use it. Mr. Smith: Let me tell you something. I have recently been to Pittsburg and Washington, where a good deal of Iowa butter is consumed, and complaint is getting pretty loud that a good deal of Iowa butter, made from gathered cream creameries, goes off flavor quickly. It gets fishy. This is an inland State and can not have any fish, but the flavor seems to come from lack of proper care of the cream. I want to know if the proper use of the starter would prevent the butter getting off flavor? Mr. Smarzo : If the cream were delivered to the creameries sweet; but the trouble is too much gathered cream is delivered to creameries in sour, rotten condition. Mr. Smith: How far will a commercial starter correct the sins of the farmer ? Mr. Smarzo : Not very far. FIFTH ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART IV. 231 Mr. Smith : Here is why I am getting at this thing. In Michigan we are building up the dairy industry just as directly and quickly as we can. We do not believe we have struck the bottom when we send men like Kieffer and Smarzo to the creameries. We have got to go further away and send out instructions to the farmer. You Iowa men may be naturally clean, but let me tell you what has happened. Your men who sell separators have gone to our farmers and made them believe that if they will only buy hand separators all they have to do is milk the cows, turn the crank, the cow will take care of herself and the separator will take care of itself. Nothing to do with the cream, only bring it to the creameries speckled and spotted, and they will ask us to make good butter of that by the use of the commercial starter. I want to find out whether it is possible under God Himself for a commercial starter to take farm cream which is a diluted tincture of cow manure, which has been asso- ciating with all the odors of the barnyard, has never been kept cool and delivered to the creamery at a temperature of seventy - five degrees, and make good butter out of it? Mr. Smarzo : You can not overcome cowbarn flavor with starters. Mr. Smith: You and I have been in dairy schools recent enough to know that we can get butter that is fairly eatable when it leaves the creamery, by pasteurization and areation ; but is it not true that butter made from such cream and made tem- porarily passable will go off flavor quicker than butter made from cream properly handled with or without commercial starter? I mean to say, will not the effect of the starter only temporarily kill the permanent odor, or have you not observed that? Mr. Smarzo : Yes, I think when those bad flavors are in the cream they will show up later on. The improvement by starter is only temporary. If you use a heavy starter you can taste the stater in the butter, which gives it a pleasant taste, but the bad