Gentlemen of the Agricultural Society.
When you did me the honour of requesting me to deliver this Address,
you did not expect that I should enter into minute details of the
process of Agriculture. Such an attempt might expose my own ignorance,
but could not add to your information. The object of our Society is
_the promotion of Agriculture_. Whatever conduces to this end, either
immediately or even remotely, is worthy of our attention, and within
the scope of our Association. In this view of the subject, I perceive
so wide a range, that there is less difficulty in finding objects,
than in making a proper selection. To call forth the exertions of
the Society its zeal must be excited. But zeal is not to be excited,
without a conviction of the importance of the cause in which we are
engaged. May I be permitted then, to declare my conviction, that amidst
the profusion of Societies with which the present age abounds, there is
none more useful, or more dignified, than that for the _promotion of
Agriculture_. Indeed, in point of _utility_, I might justly say that
it _precedes_ all others. Because, even if mankind could exist without
Agriculture, yet they could exist only in a savage state, and in small
numbers. The great command "_increase and multiply_," could not be
obeyed. There could be nothing worthy the name of art, or science, or
literature. When I cast my eye on the map of Pennsylvania, and view
the vast quantity of excellent land, in the rude state in which nature
formed it, I am struck with astonishment at the multitudes which throng
our cities, struggling with hunger, cold, and disease. Nor is my wonder
confined to the lower orders of society. For I see many of liberal
education, and with the means of acquiring a competency in the country,
wasting their lives in disgraceful idleness, or fruitless efforts
to force their way through the crowds which block up every avenue
to profit or preferment. The flood of commerce which set upon our
shores during five and twenty years of war and disorder in Europe, has
given to our cities a premature growth. In every branch of trade and
commerce there are too many competitors. Labourers are too numerous.
Every mechanic art, every liberal profession is overdone. Happy would
it be for the city, and happy for the country, if any efforts of this
Society could inspire a respect, and a taste, for an _art_ in which no
man need be ashamed to employ his faculties; for a _condition_, which
after all, seems most congenial to the nature of man. It is a life,
to which, at one time or other, we all aspire. For who is there, that
amidst the eager pursuit of wealth or ambition, does not sometimes
pause, and console himself with the fond, though often fallacious hope,
of passing his latter days in the independence, the ease, the plenty,
the safety, and the innocence of the country! In Pennsylvania, young
men of education would have peculiar advantages in spreading themselves
through the country, for it is a fact (and we are every day feeling
the effects of it) that in no state in the union, is education so much
confined to towns. There are many inhabitants of this city, who hold
extensive tracts of land, which neither they nor their children have
ever seen. This is a bad state of things. For, through ignorance of
the quality, the situation, and value of their lands, these persons
are sometimes a prey to speculators, and sometimes, erring on the
contrary extreme, they conceive extravagant notions, and refuse to
sell at a fair price. Hence Agriculture suffers--either the land
remains a desert, or they are occupied by poor intruders, who knowing
the instability of their title, are afraid to attempt any valuable
improvement. These people, with few exceptions, lead a wretched life,
and are apt to imbibe sentiments hostile to the proprietors of the
soil, whom they consider as natural enemies. Could the parties but see
each other, very different feelings might prevail. A little kindness
and condescension on the part of the proprietor, might convert a
discontented trespasser, into a useful tenant or purchaser. That this
has happened in many instances, I know; which induces me to think,
that were the trial made, it would happen in many more. Where large
property of this kind, is in the hands of heads of families with
several children, one or two of the sons might manage the estate to
great advantage, by living on the spot. Agents are expensive, and often
unfaithful. But one may confide in his own blood. Besides, the very
circumstance of a well educated young man residing in any place, will
naturally attract others of similar qualifications, to the same spot;
and thus an agreeable society might be formed, and great encouragement
afforded to the labouring poor of the neighbourhood. In this kind
of policy, the state of New York has set us a good example. And the
consequences of her conduct are obvious; a greater proportion of her
lands is settled, and her unsettled lands, of equal quality, sell for
a higher price than ours. Although the views of our society are not
confined to the limits of the state, and our earnest wishes are for
the prosperity of the whole, and every part of the union, yet it may
be considered as our duty to direct our attention more particularly
to Pennsylvania. We cannot be accused then of acting with ungenerous
policy, if we endeavour to promote the settlement of our own lands in
preference to those of our neighbours. We may, without impropriety,
suggest all fair and honourable arguments, to convince the emigrants
from the eastern states, and from Europe, that it is their interest
to establish themselves here, rather than seek a residence in a
distant country, to the west or the south. It is not my intention to
enter deeply into this subject. It might be enough, to suggest to the
Society, the utility of circulating good pamphlets, which have already
been written, or may be written hereafter. But, one or two leading
facts it may not be amiss to mention. The rich productions of the
south, are not to be attained, but by men of considerable capital.
The object is tempting, but when offered to the consideration of
emigrants from Europe, or our sister states to the eastward, they will
remember that the climate where rice, cotton, tobacco, indigo, and
sugar flourish, is generally unfavourable to health; and that these
articles are not to be cultivated to advantage, without slaves. They
have therefore to engage in a new kind of life, opposed to the habits
and principles in which they have been educated, and which, however
flattering the outset, will probably terminate in an enfeebled body and
discontented mind.
But the great class of emigrants, is that of people who have small
capitals, and must seek their bread, by the labour of their own hands.
To such persons, health is every thing. The languid eye of sickness
dwells without pleasure, on the fairest prospects of nature. In vain is
the fertile bottom, or the rich prairie, offered to the arm unnerved
by disease. It is a notorious fact, that rich, low, level countries,
are subject to fevers. They should therefore be shunned by those who
are to live by their own labour. Another great inconvenience in those
countries is, that they are badly supplied with water, either for
drinking or machinery. If, indeed, the lands in the western region,
were extremely cheap, and those in Pennsylvania at a price beyond
the reach of a poor man, he must go to the west from necessity. But
that is not the case,--our lands are believed to be as low priced, as
those beyond the Ohio; and much more so, when there is taken into the
calculation (as there ought to be) the expense of the journey. Another
important circumstance in our favour, is a much better market for the
sale of our productions, and the purchase of necessary articles. This
is important at all times, but peculiarly in war, when the Mississippi,
the only inlet or outlet of the whole western country, may be blockaded
by a hostile fleet.
* * * * *
Let it not be supposed, that the interests of Agriculture and of
Commerce are at variance. On the contrary, they are inseparable. Of
this the Agriculturists of the United States have had good proof.
No persons on earth have profited more by commerce. During the long
wars of Europe, the staple productions of the middle states sold at
double price, and those of the southern states were very high, both
during the war and after. Those prices were produced, in part, by the
influx of wealth, which occasioned an increased consumption at home,
and in part by exportation to foreign countries, but principally by
the latter. Both causes, however, sprang from commerce; and both, as
long as commerce exists, will continue to operate in a greater or
less degree. Indeed, if we could suppose a nation cut off from all
intercourse with other nations, (that is, from all foreign commerce)
that nation, though abounding in all the necessaries of life, would be
barbarous, selfish, illiteral, and ignorant. Neither let us give way to
the idea, that either agriculture, or commerce, are incompatible with
domestic manufactures. Unwise laws, may injure either one or the other,
by unjust preferences; but under proper regulations, they will aid,
and invigorate each other. This is not the place for entering into a
disquisition of the degree of encouragement which should be afforded by
_law_, to manufactures. That important subject is before the national
legislature, where it will no doubt, receive an impartial and mature
consideration. But thus much may be said, with certainty; that it is
the _duty_, as well as the _interest_, of all of us, to use _our own_,
in preference to _foreign_ manufactures, where they can be furnished
on reasonable terms. It cannot be denied, that manufactures afford a
sure market, for the productions of the neighbouring country; and as
they are multiplied, in the same ratio, are the markets increased. And
there is a peculiar advantage in markets of this kind, at a distance
from navigable waters; that, the consumption being at home, the
expense of carriage is saved. But, there is a kind of manufacture,
_domestic in the strictest sense_, the benefit of which is inestimable,
because while it adds to the _stock_ of the family, it protects their
_morals_.--I allude to spinning, weaving, and such things as are
done by the hands of the husband, the wife, or the children, without
leaving their home. It guards them against _idleness_, that child of
folly, and parent of vice, and is often clear gain, as it occupies
those hours which would have been passed in inaction. I am afraid,
that in this kind of industry, we have rather degenerated. A very
respectable gentleman, a member of the Society of Friends, informed me,
that about the year 1764, he attended a meeting, in Chester county,
near the borders of Maryland, and that most of his society in that
neighbourhood, were clothed _completely_ and _handsomely_ in dress
of their own manufacture. Were he to visit that meeting now, I doubt
whether he would see his friends in the same kind of apparel. Yet
meritorious examples are not wanting, even now, and I hope I shall be
excused for mentioning one lately communicated to me. In the western
part of Pennsylvania, on this side of the Alleghany river, lives a
man, who, ten or twelve years ago, seated himself on a tract of land,
to which he had no title, in the humble character of a _squatter_.[11]
This man has converted a wilderness into a fine farm; and, with the
assistance of an industrious wife, brought up a large family of
children. He raises on his farm all the materials for clothing the
family; and whatever they wear, of linen or woollen texture, excellent
in their kinds, is spun, woven, and manufactured in the house. They
also make their own sugar, from the maple; and their own leather; and
_purchase_ (or rather _barter_ for) nothing but iron, and salt. Their
farming utensils are chiefly homemade.--But what is more commendable
than all (and perhaps the cause of all) _very little whiskey or ardent
spirits is drunk_ by any of them. To finish the picture, I have to add,
that the proprietor of the land, with views, no less _politic_ than
_liberal_, has confirmed these good people in their title, on moderate
terms--so that this little story contains a moral, from which, both
_settlers_, and _proprietors_, may profit.
[11] A term in use, in New York and Pennsylvania, to denote a man who
seats himself on land to which he has no title.
It has been apprehended by some, that the late fall in the price of
land, and its productions, would damp the ardour of cultivators,
and deter men of capital from employing their funds in the purchase
of real property. This apprehension appears to be ill founded. If
the profits of farming have been diminished, so likewise have the
profits of all other business; so that there is no particular reason
for withholding funds from an investment in land. We are in a state
of distress, which I trust, will be but temporary; for the country
has great resources, and sufficient knowledge to bring them into
action. A stagnation of commerce was to be expected, on the cessation
of the wars in Europe.[12] But this stagnation is not peculiar to
America--she shares it in common with all the world--we have indeed,
particular distress, arising from our own errors, on the subject of
banks. An immoderate issue of bank paper, afforded an unhappy facility
of borrowing. The money when borrowed, must be made use of in some
way--many of the borrowers, having no good use for it, either trifled
it away, in unnecessary expenses, or in the purchase of land, which
soon rose, nominally, to twice its value. Such a state of things could
not last long--the delusion is past. It is to be lamented, that many
good people have been the victims of this infatuation; but we must
comfort ourselves with the hope, that some good will result from it, if
a cure is not attempted by rash and violent means. As a people, we had
become too extravagant and too luxurious. The slow but sure progress
of industry was despised. Every man was in haste to be rich, by some
visionary project, dignified with the name of _speculation_. But we
are now suffering for these follies, and by suffering, we shall be
purified, and brought back to better habits. This will be a lasting
good. Instead of desponding then, let us prosecute our business with
increased vigour and economy, and we shall soon find, that although
we have fewer paper dollars, we have more real wealth, and what is of
much greater importance, better morals, and of course more happiness.
A large capital is at present locked up, because the owners are in
doubt how to employ it. When business shall flow in decided channels,
this capital will be brought into activity. It is almost certain, that
neither commerce, nor bank stock will be as profitable as they have
been; so that there is a strong probability of an investment of a
large capital, in real estate, which, after all, possesses a stability
unknown to any other kind of property.
[12] In a letter of the late President Adams, published since the
delivery of this Address, he says he remembers that the like depression
of commerce, manufactures and real estate, took place after the wars,
which ended in 1748, 1763, and 1783.
But, it is in our own power, to increase the value of our lands by
an improved state of Agriculture. Much has been done, but much more
remains to be done. Though not at the bottom of the hill, we have
not yet ascended half its height. It may be encouraging however to
stop for a moment, and take a glance at the progress we have made.
Before the war of the revolution, little of science was blended with
the art of agriculture--things had gone on in their natural course.
The counties first settled, now known by the names of Philadelphia,
Delaware, Chester, Montgomery, and Bucks, though not rich (except the
meadows) were sufficient to yield good crops at first, and tolerable
ones for a number of years. But the soil near the surface, composed of
vegetable substances accumulated during the lapse of ages, became at
length exhausted by repeated tillage without refreshment. Red clover
was introduced before the war, but it was produced in small quantities,
and almost solely for the purpose of hay. The system of melioration by
a rotation of crops, in which grass took its turn, was not understood.
Natural meadow was in great demand, and not much hay being produced
on the uplands, it was impossible to support during winter, a stock
sufficiently large to amass a great quantity of manure. Consequently
the crops of grain, and particularly of wheat were much diminished.
Indeed, the _wheat_ crops were trifling. Gypsum had been imported, in
small quantities before the revolution; but it was very little used,
and very little talked of; and that little not to its credit, for an
old proverb, said to come from Germany, was brought up against it,
"_that gypsum made rich fathers, but poor sons_." Notwithstanding this
prejudice, it was brought into general use, some years after the war,
by the persevering efforts of a few, _and principally of the President
of this Society_, to whom future generations will render thanks for
this important service. Through the efficacy of this fossil, the face
of the country experienced a magic change. The uplands were clothed
with rich herbage, to which succeeded plenteous crops of grain. I have
not been able to trace with certainty, the progress of the cultivation
of clover aided by gypsum, but I believe, that Philadelphia was the
centre, from which it spread in all directions. In Chester county, so
great were its effects, that (as I heard it proved in the trial of a
cause at West Chester,) the price of lands was doubled in a few years.
Nor is there any reason to suppose that it was less beneficial in other
places.
But as the excess of even a good thing may be pernicious, so may it be
with gypsum. That it promotes the growth of many vegetables, and of
clover in particular, is certain; though its mode of operation does
not seem to be clearly understood. An increased quantity of grass,
will support an increased quantity of stock, from which will proceed
an increased quantity of manure, and that should be considered as the
great end of gypsum. Not that great advantages may not be derived
from ploughing in the green clover. But if that is relied on, as the
only mode of meliorating the soil, (and in some publications which I
have seen, it is asserted to be quite sufficient) we shall probably
be disappointed. In Sir John Sinclair's Code of Agriculture, it is
said that the practice of ploughing in green vegetables, as a manure,
has been tried, in England, and found not to answer; and that more
benefit is derived from those crops, when they are consumed by stock,
and converted into dung; and Col. John Taylor, (of Caroline county,
Virginia) to whose valuable labours the world is so much indebted,
is also of opinion, that we ought not to rely on green vegetables
only. In the first edition of his _Arator_, he seemed to think, that
nothing more was necessary than clover, but in the second edition, he
acknowledged his error, which had been demonstrated by the result of
two crops of Indian corn. In 80 acres of land, improved by turning in
the grass, without other manure, the crop averaged 25 bushels an acre.
But in 200 acres, where the clover was turned in and the ground also
manured, the average was 50 bushels. It is probable, indeed, that the
ploughing in of clover, may have a greater effect in many parts of
the United States, than in England. For, that large crops of grain
have been produced by it, is so strongly attested, that it must not
be denied. This may be owing to the Superior efficacy of the gypsum,
which, no doubt, acts more powerfully here, than generally in England,
and therefore produces a greater quantity of clover. But, as it is
certain, that the manure of dung, incorporated with putrefied vegetable
matter, is more efficacious than simple green vegetables; what I
intend, is to exhort our farmers not to trust to the latter alone, nor
relax their efforts to collect the former in as great quantities as
possible.
Another important circumstance is to be attended to. We are not to
expect, that land will continue to produce luxuriant crops of clover,
for ever, even when aided by gypsum.--It would be contrary to the order
of nature; which delights in change. Our _second_ crop of clover,
has, for many years, been of little value, though the cause remains
unexplained. A gentleman of veracity, who lives on the Delaware,
between eight or ten miles above the city, assured me, that gypsum,
which had done wonders for a long time, had at length ceased to have
any effect on his land; and that the same was the case of some of his
neighbours. I am informed also, that the same remark has been made by
farmers in Montgomery county. Now it is not to be supposed, that the
gypsum has changed its nature, or lost its virtue.--But the earth,
being exhausted of those particles which are favourable to the growth
of clover, no longer offers to the gypsum the same matter to act upon.
That the matter, necessary for the formation of a particular plant, may
be exhausted, while the same earth suffices for the vigorous production
of other plants, is proved by daily experience; and is an accordance
with the best theory.
In a late English publication, there is an offer of a considerable
premium to the person who shall discover a grass which shall be a good
substitute for clover, it being understood that clover no longer grew
as formerly; and of another premium to the person who shall discover
the means of restoring lands, which once bore clover, to a capacity of
producing it again. It would, therefore, be wise in us, to look out in
time, for some grass, to take the place of clover, when it shall be
found no longer to succeed. In the mean time, we may avail ourselves
(and it may perhaps be a very long time) of the united efficacy of
gypsum and clover.
I said that we had much to do before we attained that degree of
perfection which was practicable in agriculture. I presume, that our
lands, in their natural state, were full as good as those of England.
In England, the average crops of grain of all kinds, on 8,000,000
of acres, are estimated at twenty-four bushels the acre. I take
this estimate from Sir John Sinclair, who says, moreover, that in
"fertile districts and propitious seasons, from thirty-two to forty
bushels of wheat an acre, may be confidently expected; from forty-two
to fifty of barley, from fifty-two to sixty-four of oats, and from
twenty-eight to thirty-two of beans." The best county in Pennsylvania,
is supposed to be Lancaster. The matter cannot be spoken of with any
kind of certainty; but, from the best information I have been able to
collect, I should doubt whether the _wheat_ crops of the whole county
of Lancaster, averaged more than fifteen bushels an acre, though many
individual farmers get from twenty to thirty; and some from thirty to
forty. But, when we compare the agriculture of two countries, we must
take it in large masses. Penn's Valley, in Pennsylvania, is supposed to
yield crops of _wheat_, averaging at least twenty bushels an acre; but
that is owing to something peculiar in the climate; for the crops do
not ripen in less than two weeks later than in most other parts of the
state. The soil in Penn's valley, is limestone, and the water lies very
deep.
There is no doubt, however, that the agriculture of Pennsylvania is
steadily improving, and is at present actually improved as highly as
that of any state in the union. In buildings for agricultural purposes
(perhaps too expensive) she is unrivalled; so that without being over
sanguine, we may promise ourselves an annual increase of the value of
our lands. How this progress may be quickened, is a question which
this Society should keep constantly in view.--To devise the means
of acceleration, should be their study.--To the first great step
towards general improvement, the organization of societies in every
part of the state, we have one what was in our power, by petitioning
the legislature to take the subject into consideration, and aid the
undertaking with necessary funds. Nor is there any reason to doubt
of success; for the legislature is always liberal when the general
interest demands it. The institution of county societies, with the
distribution of premiums, will be a powerful stimulus to the dormant
faculties of thousands. The Eastern States, including New York, have
already made the experiment with success; and I honour them for the
example. Our Society, being situated in the capital, has the best
means of correspondence; so that we can reciprocate information on
agricultural subjects, with the different societies throughout this,
and other states, and with countries beyond the sea. Hence will be
collected a stock of knowledge, which being condensed, and methodized,
may be offered to the public with great advantage.
A pattern farm is an object we have long had at heart, and it is not
to be relinquished. But the time is not come, for carrying our wishes
into effect. At present, we have not sufficient funds; and to incur a
debt, in our corporate capacity, without the means of payment, would
justly dishonour us. But the want of a pattern farm may be in some
measure supplied, by the exertions of members of the society, who
possess farms within a few miles of the city. Some of them are blessed
with ample means, as well as inclination, to give a fair trial to every
improvement which can be rationally suggested, either in instruments
of husbandry, the application of manures, or the cultivation of new
plants, grains, or grasses.
We may render ourselves useful, by collecting and diffusing the
information contained in books recently published in Europe or America.
In Europe the principal nobility and gentry are paying due honours to
Agriculture. Chemistry has been called to her aid, from which important
discoveries must result. Earths, minerals, and manures of all kinds are
analysed. Philosophy is in the right path. Facts are first ascertained,
and then accounted for. The increased power of magnifying glasses,
lays open the hidden parts of plants, and minute animals. Hence may be
discovered the _causes_, and consequently the _cure_, of many disorders
by which plants are infested. Already it is asserted, (I vouch not for
the truth of it) that the disease in wheat called the _smut_, is no
other than a parasite plant, which adhering to the seed-wheat, grows
with it, and may be destroyed by proper applications, before the seed
is sown. Perhaps some fortunate observer may let us into the nature
of that scourge of Agriculture, known by the name of the Hessian fly,
so that we may get rid of it, as we did of the weevil fly, some forty
years ago. Such a man would deserve a statue of gold, and I think the
farmers would gladly erect it.
Another point of duty, to which we have not been wanting, is the
importation of such foreign grains, grasses, and plants, as are
suitable to our climate. Of all the grains which now grow in the
middle states, I recollect none, but maize, (Indian corn) which
is native. Perhaps we have not yet collected all which might be
profitably cultivated; and even if we have, a change of seed is of
great importance. What wealth has flowed into the southern states, from
cotton, which, thirty years ago, was scarce known there! Something new
is always turning up, and we should be on the alert, to avail ourselves
of it.
The Society has heretofore given admonition of the necessity of change
in seed-grain. I do not mean merely the change of one grain for another
of a different kind, (as _wheat_ for _rye_, &c.) but a change of seed,
where there is no change of kind. Farmers do not seem aware of this
necessity, nor of the great advantage of procuring seed of the very
best kind, and cleaning it in the most perfect manner. Or if they are
aware, they are deterred from paying attention to it, by a little
trouble and a little expense. It would be well to keep the subject
before their eyes, until a conviction of its importance shall produce
an alteration of practice.
The importation of foreign animals is not to be neglected. It is not
the business of this Society, nor have they the means of importing
them;--but they may point them out. We have, in Pennsylvania, good
horses; but in the best breeds of cattle, hogs and sheep, we are
defective. I know that some enterprising gentlemen in the city have
gone to great expense in importing cattle, and others are in possession
of excellent breeds of hogs, but they are not yet diffused through
the state. It is understood, that in the Eastern States, no pains or
expense have been spared, in procuring animals of the finest shape
and quality. But it may be some time, before they have a surplus for
exportation.
We are well situated for obtaining models of all newly invented
implements of husbandry. Our workmen are ingenious, and able to execute
any thing which is planned for them; and the genius of our countrymen
in the application of the mechanic powers, is conspicuous. The high
price of labour, rendered its abridgement of primary importance. What
wonderful effects have been produced by Whitney's cotton gin? We are
well supplied with implements for breaking the earth, and for cutting
all kinds of straw, and cheap machines for shelling Indian corn. But a
machine effectual for the threshing of wheat, and not too high-priced,
is a desideratum. The machine for dressing flax, of British invention,
is said to be a very great improvement, but is not yet much in use
among us.
Roads, bridges, canals, and all internal public improvements, are
subjects, which though not within our control, have such an immediate
bearing on Agriculture, by expediting and cheapening carriage, that
it will be always proper to do what little is in our power, for their
success. Works of such magnitude are not to be executed, without the
combined exertions of many persons, sanctioned by the authority of the
legislature, and assisted by the public purse. Our legislature has
done nobly for roads and bridges, and we trust it will do the same for
canals. The first great object of that kind, is the junction of the
waters of the Susquehanna and the Schuylkill, which empties into the
Delaware. That being accomplished, we may look westward to the waters
of the Alleghany, and northward to the Seneca lake, which being once
entered, and entered it may be with no great difficulty, we have the
Delaware connected with the great northern lakes, by means of the
magnificent work now in rapid progress, in the state of New York. The
project is grand;--I may not live to see it executed, yet it is by no
means so improbable as many things once appeared, which in my time have
been accomplished.
Yet, it must be confessed, that in canals, we linger behind other
states, who have boldly led the way. Except the works now carrying
on, for the improvement of the navigation on the Schuylkill and the
Lehigh, we have nothing to show but the Conewago canal of a single
mile, which will be of little use, unless the Susquehanna and Delaware
are united. Our tardiness may be accounted for. Five and twenty years
ago, when the Conewago canal was begun, public spirit mounted perhaps
too high. Great efforts were made, which, from causes not necessary
now to mention, proved abortive.--Hence, a despondence on the subject
of canals, from which we have scarce yet recovered. But it is high
time to rouse ourselves. On the one side we have New York making great
and successful exertions; on the other, Maryland, endeavouring to
avail herself of the road, made at the expense of the United States,
from Cumberland, on the Potowmac, to Wheeling, on the Ohio; on which
wagons travel free from toll. But, if we can have water carriage from
Philadelphia to Susquehanna, we shall be on a better footing than
Baltimore; and preserve our wagon carriage to Pittsburg until the
Susquehanna shall be joined to the Alleghany. This wagon carriage is
of immense importance. It has been supposed, that between Philadelphia
and Pittsburg, the yearly sum paid for carriage, amounted to 730,000
dollars. Nor is this the only consideration. A very great sum is
expended all along the line of the turnpike road, which is diffused
through the country to a considerable distance. A six horse wagon
consumes five bushels of oats a day, besides hay. Now, it appears from
an official return, made by the keeper of the turnpike gate, at the
Chesnut Ridge, between Stoys Town, and Greensburg, that there passed
through that gate, during the year ending May, 1818; among other
things, 281 four-horse, 2412 five-horse, and 2698 six-horse teams; and
it is said, that a gentleman, living on the road near Pittsburg, in the
year 1813, counted the number of wagons, laden with merchandize, which
passed his house that year, and that they amounted to 4055. Through the
counties of Bedford and Somerset, the road, being generally on ridges,
runs through a poor country, to which the market afforded by the
wagons, is essential. Somerset abounds in _grass_; and for _oats_ is
superior to any county in the state.--But the soil is not favourable to
wheat; and, except in the southern part, Indian corn will scarce arrive
at maturity. It appears, clearly, therefore, that the Agriculture
of Pennsylvania is very much interested, even in parts far west of
the Susquehanna, in a water communication between that river and the
Delaware, as the most effectual means of preserving the land carriage
to Pittsburg. Another weighty consideration is, the protection which
ought to be afforded to Pittsburg, against the effect of the United
States' turnpike from Cumberland to Wheeling. Pittsburg ought to be to
the western part of the state, what Philadelphia is to the eastern: the
reservoir of wealth sufficient to afford a market to the surrounding
country. There is no rivalship between these cities. The prosperity of
one promotes the prosperity of the other. Why then should we hesitate?
New York has completed 120 miles of canal in less than two years and
five months. By a line of less than half that length, the Delaware and
Susquehanna are united.
Pennsylvania has been accused of want of attention to gardening, and I
am afraid she must plead guilty to the charge. A good kitchen garden
contributes much to the health, and even the elegance of life; the
saving of meat makes it a source of economy, and the neatness which is
necessary to keep it in order, may have an effect on the _manners_
of the family. The females might execute a good deal of the work, and
for their sake it should be interspersed with flowers. I believe my
feelings are not at all singular, and I declare that I am struck with
a sensation of pleasure, at the sight of a flourishing, well enclosed
garden. May I be allowed to add, that I have the same feelings, at
sight of a neat inclosure in front of the dwelling house, separating
it from the highway. With surprise and regret, I perceive this often
neglected, by wealthy and liberal farmers, merely because they have
been in the habit of living without it. Such things might be remedied
at a very trifling expense, but they are of no trifling consequence.
They have an influence on manners.
I say nothing on the subject of _hedges_, their importance, and the
best mode of raising them have been fully shown by one of our Vice
Presidents, on a former occasion.
The limits of this discourse confine me to _hints_, on subjects which
merit _treatises_. May not means be taken to tincture the youthful
mind, with the spirit of Agriculture? In _colleges_, natural philosophy
and chemistry might sometimes be directed to that special purpose.
But something may be done at an _earlier age_; particularly where
opportunities are offered, in teaching the learned languages, which
being acquired slowly and with difficulty, leave lasting impressions;
for instance, besides the Georgics of Virgil, which are in general use,
select passages might be read from Columella, one of the most ancient
writers on rural affairs, which have reached us, in the Latin tongue.
I am afraid mischief is done, by putting into the hands of boys, those
finished models of Grecian and Roman eloquence, in which are painted,
in too vivid colours, the pleasures of wine, and love, and the glory of
war.
Having touched the subject of education, I will add, that when the
benevolent intention of the constitution of Pennsylvania, shall be
carried into effect, by "_the establishment of schools throughout
the state, in such manner, that the poor may be taught gratis_,"
Agriculture will reap her full share of the benefit. Reading, writing,
and common arithmetic, if not essential, are very serviceable to the
farmer. And even the labourer will derive incalculable advantage from
the improvement of his intellectual faculties. Work cannot be continued
without intermission, and time hangs heavy on the mind which is torpid
during the hours of repose. Exercise is as necessary to the mind as
the body. How desirable then, that men should be qualified for that
kind of reading, which gratifies and strengthens the mind, without the
fatigue of severe study, while the body is at rest during the intervals
of labour? Our legislature is not unmindful of the duty imposed by the
constitution--the act "to provide for the education of children at the
public expense within the city and county of Philadelphia," is working
great good. By the first annual report of the controllers of these
schools, made in February last, it appears that 2845 children were then
in a course of education; and I am informed that the number is now
much increased. Moreover, a most important fact is established--that
by adopting the Lancasterian mode of teaching, which will do in all
thickly settled districts, the annual expense will not exceed _four
dollars_ for each child. Upon efforts like these the blessing of God
may be confidently hoped for.
Nothing can be more effectual for the diffusion of the spirit of
Christianity, than a moderate cultivation of the understanding. Men
will thus become more mild, better content with the condition in which
Providence has placed them, more attentive to their duties both moral
and religious, more charitable towards each other, less jealous and
vindictive in their feelings towards foreign nations, less prone to
rapine, under whatever name disguised, and less easily dazzled by the
false splendour of war.
But I must indulge myself on this topic no longer, lest it seduce me
from my main design.
Closely connected with Agriculture is the subject of leases. Though
not so important in the United States, as in other countries, because
the body of tenantry is smaller here, yet it is not undeserving of
attention. The leases generally in use, are for a short term, with a
reservation, by way of rent, of a certain share of the produce of the
land. This system is liable to two great objections. The shortness of
the tenure, precludes all hope of improvement of the soil, and the mode
of payment, (the rendering a share of the crop,) holds out inducements
to fraud, which few tenants are able to resist. When the landlord
lives upon the estate, he has some chance of checking the tenant, by
obtaining an accurate knowledge of the amount of the crop; and if he
is liberal, he may have something done in the way of improvement. But
where he lives at a distance, the probability is, that the estate
will go to ruin, while he receives but a small part of his due.
The objections to long leases, for rents in money, are, that if the
landlord parts with the possession for a long time, he may be injured
by a bad tenant; that he precludes himself from the chance of a sale,
if a good price should be offered, and that the great fluctuations in
the price of grain, make it impossible to fix a rent in money, without
danger to both parties. Where a man has it in view to sell his estate,
he may be right, in making a short lease; that case forms an exception
to the general rule. But where he means to keep it, the objection is
removed; then, as to fluctuation of price, the matter might be easily
managed, by reserving a rent of a certain quantity of grain, giving the
tenant an election to pay the market price, in money, which might be
more convenient than delivering the grain. That point being settled, a
lease for a longer term, fixing the rotation in which the fields should
be cultivated, with other proper covenants, would leave the landlord
sufficiently protected, while it gave the tenant encouragement to
meliorate the soil for his own interest. At the end of such a lease,
the value of the estate would be increased, and the rent might be
raised. With great deference I submit these remarks to gentlemen of the
city, who have farms at some distance, or even in the neighbourhood,
which are intended as a provision for their families.
One thing more remains, which I cannot in conscience pass by, and in
which, perhaps the Society may find means to do some good. Can no
method be devised, to check the inordinate use of spirituous liquors?
This shocking habit, strikes at the root of agriculture, by robbing it
of the labour necessary for its support. It would be a waste of time,
to enumerate the ills which flow from this disgraceful vice, because
they are obvious to everyone. Perhaps a small addition to the wages,
would induce labourers to forego the use of this poisonous liquid; or
they might consent to take as a substitute, beer, or cider, or some
other harmless drink. The subject deserves the deepest consideration,
and I cannot help hoping, that when societies shall be organized in the
several counties, a plan may be formed, which being acted upon at once,
throughout the state, may greatly lessen, if not eradicate the evil.
I have endeavoured, gentlemen, to obey your commands, in hopes that my
example may call forth the efforts of others, better qualified to do
justice to the subject.
_Law Case._
The following opinion delivered by JACOB RUSH, President of the Court
of Common Pleas of the City and County of Philadelphia, will be found
particularly interesting by persons residing in the Country, and who
may be exposed to controversies about line fences, and their repairs.
The examination of the provisions of the act of Assembly, and of
the principles of law on the points involved in the case will be
interesting and useful to every Lawyer.
Overseers of the Poor } Common Pleas, Philadelphia
of Byberry, } County,
_vs._ } Certiorari.
F.I. }
A Certiorari issued out of this Court, directed to Joshua Jones and
Elisha Gordon, Esquires, requiring them to transmit certain proceedings
had before them under the fence law of 1700, in which John T.
Townshend and Israel Walton, Overseers of the poor of Byberry are the
complainants, and F. I. the defendant.
Prior to stating the facts on the return, it will be proper to give a
brief exposition of the very obscure law upon which the controversy has
arisen.
The act of 1700, for the regulation of fences, gives authority to fence
viewers in two cases.--1st. Where a person finding a fence actually
erected, takes advantage of such existing fence, and makes it a part of
a subsequent enclosure. The person making such subsequent enclosure,
and deriving a benefit from his neighbours fence, is bound to pay one
half the expense of such fence. He is equally bound afterwards himself
to keep in repair one half of it, or to pay the expense of repairing
it.--Which leads to the 2d. point, and this consists in the power
the fence viewers have over fences, either erected or subsequently
divided, by agreement between two neighbours. The fence viewers cannot
compel a person to join fences with his neighbour, every man having an
undoubted right to erect a fence upon his own ground. The authority
of the viewers is derived from the consent of the parties expressed
or implied. In the case of a person deriving a benefit from making a
fence actually existing, a part of the enclosure around his own field,
he virtually agrees by his conduct, to make compensation.--In the 2d.
case, viz: repairing fences, the parties are supposed to have joined
originally in erecting the fence, or by some subsequent contract, to
have come under an engagement to keep in repair a moity of the fence.
The viewers being only judges of the value, or of the sufficiency of
fences, cannot order a _new_ fence to be erected. In the former case,
that is, the value, they are to award compensation; in the latter,
they are to direct the party delinquent to repair the fence, and in
case of his neglecting it for ten days, then upon application and
proof thereof before two Justices, they are to order the _persons
aggrieved_ to repair the fence, who shall be reimbursed by the party
refusing to repair the fence. When the party _aggrieved_, has repaired
the the fence, in obedience to the order of the two justices, the
fence viewers, who by the law are the _sole judges_ of the charge to
be borne by the delinquent, must be called upon to fix the amount
of compensation, to be reimbursed by the delinquent, for which sum,
together with costs, the justices are required to issue a warrant
against him to be levied upon his goods and chattels.
If the viewers and the two justices have in all respects conformed to
the law, and have kept _within_ their jurisdiction, the facts cannot
_now_ be controverted. What are the facts in this case?
The viewers have been legally summoned to view and examine a fence
which separates the lands of the complainant's from the land of the
defendants. They say they were called to view a _partition fence_
between the said parties, and that on such examination, they found the
defendant's part to be deficient, or not lawful, and that they directed
him to make a good and sufficient fence _on the line_ within ten days.
This order of the viewers is dated 21st January, 1815.
The defendants having neglected to repair the fence for _more_ than
ten days, the complainants did according to law, apply to two justices
for an order to be issued to him to repair the fence, which order, the
said justices, after being satisfied by due proof, that the defendant
had neglected to repair the fence, for ten days, did issue on the 26th
August, 1815.--To this order the complainants have returned to the
justices that they have complied therewith and repaired the fence.
As far as the proceedings have gone, every thing has been done
agreeable to the law.
Four exceptions however have been filed by the defendant. The first and
second objections may be comprised in one, and present a difficulty
of a legal nature, that the complainants represent a corporate body,
and are therefore not included in the law that relates to fences.--If
this objection were well founded, its operation would be conclusive
in favour of the defendant, because a law that does not bind both
parties in interest, never ought to be carried into execution against
_either_.--In our opinion, however, the law in the case before us
includes _corporate bodies_, as well as natural persons. The statute
22. H. 8. ch. 5. for the repair of bridges which subjects to taxation,
the _inhabitants_ of every Shire, Riding, City, or Town, and for
non-payment of which their goods may be seized and sold, has been
universally acknowledged and held to include _Corporations_. 2 inst.
703. comp. 79. Sir T. Jones 167.
The word _Inhabitants_, says Sir Edward Coke, is the largest word of
the kind, and includes every corporation or Body Politic, residing in
any County, Riding, City or Town. To these authorities we shall only
add, that in 2 Bac. Abr. Wilson's Edition, page 10, it is expressly
laid down, that _Corporations_ in the character of _owners_ or
_occupiers_ of houses or lands, are subject to the same burden to which
_individuals_ are subject, in the same character.
The good sense of these decisions, must strike every body, as their
tendency is to place natural and artificial bodies on the same footing.
The third exception filed by the defendant, viz: that the two justices
ordered the complainants to put up the fence, _without_ requiring proof
that the defendant had _not_ complied with the order of the viewers,
is destitute of foundation. The record of the justices show that this
exception is founded in mistake.
The fourth exception is, that the viewers had no authority to order the
defendant to put up and repair his fence _on the line_.
It is certain they could not order him to put it up or repair it _off
the line_; and having directed him to repair it _on the line_, cannot
invalidate the order. Viewing the words, _on the line_, in the most
exceptionable light, they can be deemed nothing but surplusage. The
substantial drift of the order is, that the defendant shall repair the
fence.
With respect to the affidavit of the defendant of the 6th of January,
1816, that he has enclosed completely the burial ground on his _own_
ground, leaving an interval of 10 feet between the line of the burial
ground and the fence he has put up, the Court would remark, that
generally speaking, a man has a right to put up a fence upon his own
land, and as many as he pleases. A man must however so exercise his
right, as not to injure those of another. Having once joined fences
with his neighbours he cannot, when ordered to repair his share of
it, evade the law, by removing it, and placing it altogether upon his
_own_ ground. Where the law has once laid its hands upon a man, he
must not be allowed to escape from its operation. Nothing can meet the
approbation of a Court, that would look like an evasion of the law. A
man cannot in one and the same breath, say he is bound and not bound.
Whether a person might remove his share of a _division fence_ and
place it upon his _own_ ground, prior to an inspection by the fence
viewers, is a point not now before the Court. But we are very clearly
of opinion, removing a fence _after_ it had been repaired in obedience
to the order of two Justices, cannot exempt him from the operation of
the law.
There being no error in point of law in the proceedings removed, the
judgment of the Court is, they must be confirmed.
[_Poulson's Am. daily Adv._