Logan County, Illinois - Chapter 12: Agricultural, 1886

Chapter 12: Agricultural

The best prosperity a county can have is agricultural. Manufactures and mineral resources are desirable, but where they are the main dependence there will invariably be a poor, ignorant, unenterprising class of citizens controlled by a few capitalists. Here in Logan County property is quite evenly distributed, with the exception of two large landowners; all are comfortably situated, and all enjoy educational and social advantages. Logan is destined to remain an agricultural county, and it is best so. As a farming region it ranks among the best in the State. Possessing the advantages of a good climate, a soil of inexhaustible fertility, close to the markets of Chicago, and excellent railroad facilities, the county has already attained such a degree of agricultural development as is seldom found in a country comparatively new. Its wealth and prosperity are steadily and rapidly increasing. When we consider that but two generations ago the red men were the owners of these prairies which now support one of the most flourishing communities in the United States, we may well be astonished at the wonderful results which time and an intelligent industry have wrought. In many sections of our country, lands which have been occupied by white inhabitants twice and thrice as long exhibit not one-half of the improvements and substantial evidences of real prosperity that Logan County can show. Nature did much for this region, and a thrifty and progressive people have admirably co-operated with her efforts. Farms, buildings and improvements of every kind are of unusual excellence in this county. Numerous towns and villages scattered over the county furnish abundant and convenient trading points and home markets, while

One may travel over many parts of Logan County and naturally conclude that it is one great cornfield; and this is borne out by the official reports. Of a total area of 388,949 acres, 347,418 acres are improved; and of this latter surface, 167,214 acres, or almost half, was planted to corn in 1884, yielding 3,622,560 bushels of that valuable grain. A large amount of this product went into the more marketable form of beef and pork, as the reports show that 4,794 fat cattle were sold, weighing 6,136,774 pounds ; and 48,892 hogs, weighing 11,661,807 pounds. Including home consumption it is safe to say that over 20,000,000 pounds, or 10,000 tons, of meat are produced in this county annually.

The next largest area of land is pasture, 64,420 acres. This is of course largely to be charged to live stock, as is also the 42,557 acres of oats, which grain takes the third largest amount of the cultivated surface. Fourth is timothy meadow, 21,132 acres; fifth, winter wheat, 16,009 acres ; sixth, woodland, 14,941 acres. These items deducted, there is only 21,145 acres left as uncultivated lands, orchards, and land used for minor crops.

Sheep. - Number of sheep and lambs, 9,289; number killed by dogs, 13i; value, $ilO; number pounds of wool shorn, 31,890; number fat sheep sold, 1,979; weight, 144,745 pounds; number sheep died of disease, 280.

Landlordism

History and reason alike teach that distribution of land and ownership by the tillers thereof are essential to the highest prosperity of a community. France is the best illustration of a land where peasant proprietorship is the rule, and Ireland the saddest example of the blighting effects of alien landlordism. Just so soon as the lands in America begin to concentrate into the hands of a few owners, then will our agricultural classes begin to degenerate. They will show a loss of means, comforts, enterprise and intelligence. It is not likely that we shall ever become as badly off as Great Britain, where the law of entail is the principal factor operating to preserve large estates, but we should combat every tendency in that direction. It is frequently argued that we in America have nothing to fear from vast fortunes; that these will be divided and wasted as fast as accumulated. This principle of self-adjustment is much less applicable to real estate than to personal property. Every one who has a vote in the affairs of our State or Nation should feel haunted by the startling fact that there are already over 1,000,000 tenant farmers in America, and direct his attention to the remedy, if there be any possible.

Agbicult0Eal

unpleasant notoriety thereby. Many large farms are owned by residents of Lincoln, Mt. Pulaski and Atlanta, and some by citizens of other counties, but two proprietors may be singled out from all the rest by reason of the vastness of their estates. One of these is John D. Gillett, father-in-law of Governor Oglesby. He resides on his property and manages it directly. The land is in the southern part of the county, near the village of Elkhart, and consists of many thousand acres of prairie. Mr. Gillett commenced poor, and owes his wealth to no inheritance of the accumulations of ancestors. He is an enterprising citizen and public spirited. He owns considerable property in Lincoln, some of which does not yield so much in dollars as in general assistance to the appearance and prosperity of the place. He is fair in his dealings with tenants, who are of a better class tban tenants frequently are. All in all, Mr. Gillett as a landlord is a pleasing contrast to William Scully, who owns more land than any other man in Illinois, and is undoubtedly an incubus upon Logan County's development.

He is the owner of about 80,000 acres of land in this State, about 45,000 acres being in Logan County. Much of this land was acquired from the Government, at $L25 an acre. Large tracts were obtained at 50 cents to $1 .00 an acre, through the use of soldiers' land warrants. He has been for more than two years buying nearly everything offered for sale near his estates, and evidently intends to enlarge his holdings as much as possible. He is an alien, residing in London, England, and takes over $200,000 in rents out of Illinois every year. He has introduced the worst features of landlordism here, his leases being the latest improvements on those which have reduced Ireland to its present condition. No tenant can sell a bushel of wheat or corn without first applying to the agent of Mr. Scully for permission, and every law which has been or may in the future be made for the protection of debtors is expressly waived by the tenants. The latter are mostly German, as Americans do not often rent, and Mr. Scully has had so much trouble with the Irish that he does not encourage their applications. All tenants imist doff their hats when at the office of the agent, F. C. W. Koehnle, and other customs are in vogue which seem oppressive. Every grain buyer at Lincoln, Mason City, 'New Holland, Burton View, Hartsburg, Emden and other points is served with a notice, of which the following is a copy: tify you that their com and other crops are subject to William Scully'e landlords' lien for rent, and that you must not pay them for any corn or other grain until said rent is paid, or I shall be obliged to hold you liable therefor. Tours respectfully,

Mr. Scully commenced renting about twenty-three years ago, but acquired much of his land previous to that. In 1850 and 1851 he entered 25,000 acres in what are now Orvil, Sheridan and Prairie Creek townships. He came to America for the first time in the former year; appeared quietly in Lincoln, where he engaged board, and gave no one an intimation of his intentions. Every day he was off on horseback, scouring the prairies. He shortly made a trip to Springfield, and entered a tract of land so vast that the story at first seemed incredible. As soon as the country became thickly settled, so that land was desirable, he had little difficulty in obtaining tenants, and although his land is somewhat impoverished, he has now no difficulty in finding men to till it. Its poverty is caused by the custom of his tenants, who are mostly " transients," raising nothing but corn, year after year, from the same ground. The owner pays nothing for permanent improvements, consequently these are few and cheap. There is little hedging; the fences are poor, the houses the most comfortless in the county. There are no barns to speak of, no orchards, scarcely a tree of any description. Churches and school-houses, as may be supposed, are as cheap and far apart as in many regions we term " heathen."

In the adjoining townships, where the farmers own their land, everything is in striking contrast. We find neat and substantial dwellings, many of them of brick, usually two stories high; large, roomy barns, cattle-sheds, orchards, neat lawns with evergreens and all the other appurtenances, and' aspects of an ideal Illinois farm.

Mr. Scully's lands rent at $3.00 an acre, on the average. Some go as low as $2.50, while the best bring $3.50. In addition the tenant must pay the taxes, which average 45 cents an acre. The proprietor thus escapes all taxation in this country. Several attempts have been made to compel him to pay an income tax, but without result. One case was taken to the Supreme Court before he won. In 1876 a measure was introduced into the Legislature imposing an extraordinary tax on holders of Illinois land who are " absentees and aliens." It failed to pass because it was feared that it would keep foreign capital out of the State. It is thought that this or a similar law will yet be enacted, but it would be a difficult one to enforce, even if it passed the ordeal of the Supreme Court.

This landlord owns a whole county in Kansas, some land in Nebraska and some in other States. In Illinois, besides his Logan County property, he owns land in Sangamon, Woodford and Grundy counties. He visits Lincoln every autumn, but never transacts business directly with our people, referring every one to his agent. He even refuses to converse on general topics with an American.

The first effort toward establishing an agricultural society in this county was made in 1856. Previous to that time, although the benefits and importance of such an association was admitted by all, there had been no combined efforts upon the part of our citizens for the improvements of our farmers.

Upon the 28th of June, 1856, a public meeting was held, which was numerously attended, for the purpose of organizing an agricultural society, at which meeting a constitution was adopted, and the following officers appointed. Oolbey Knapp, President; M. C. Hildreth, Yice-President; Wm. H. Young, Secretary; and "Wm. F. Ryan, Treasurer. An executive committee was also appointed, and the 9th and 10th of October following fixed for holding the first annual fair. In the month of September, and but a month previous to the time set for the fair, the officers and executive committee met, when it was found that but a very small sum had been subscribed toward purchasing a suitable site for the fair grounds and defraying the expenses of the fair. It was then seen that they would either have to abandon altogether holding a fair that year, or else adopt some sure and speedy method of procuring the necessary funds. Accordingly the officers and members present, to the number of ten, formed themselves into an association, upon the joint-stock principle, each of whom paid in $100, and received a certificate of stock therefor. With the funds thus obtained a handsome piece of ground ot ten acres was purchased one mile from Lincoln, and the same was inclosed with a high tight fence, and the necessary stalls and fixtures erected in time for the fair. The success of this first fair was complete, and, considering the short time for preparation, the members had good cause to congratulate themselves upon the fruits of their labor. About $400 was distributed in premiums, and the receipts for entries and at the gate were amply sufficient to pay the same, as also all the incidental expenses attending the exhibition. The display of horses was very fine, ninety-two entries having been made. The display of cattle, hogs and sheep, though not large, was better, both as to quality and quantity, than was expected by the society. Household, garden and orchard products, and the ladies' department, were well represented. The whole number of animals and articles entered was 215. Total number of premiums awarded, ninety-six. Tiie total receipts, $536. Animated by the success which attended the first exhibition, the society, determining to profit by the experience which had been gained, resolved to prepare for the second annual fair in a manner worthy of our county and- of the important interests which such exhibitions are intended to promote.

Second Fair

The second annual meeting was held upon the 18th of March, 1857. An election of oflicers was held at this meeting, which resulted in the election of Colbey Knapp, President; James Tuttle, Vice-President; Wra. H. Young, Secretary; Wra. M. Dustin, Treasurer. The society having obtained from the Legislature, during the preceding session, a charter, the same was accepted, and it was ordered that the society should in future act under the provisions of the same. The treasurer, at this meeting, reported that stock to the amount of $1,300 had been taken, and it was ordered that the society keep open books for the subscription of stock until the full amount ($2,000) should be taken. The time for holding the second annual fair was fixed on the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th of September. A premium list much more extensive and varied than the first was adopted, and $900 appropriated for premiums, to be paid in plate and agricultural books. During the spring and summer the fair grounds were beautified by planting therin a large number of trees, and by erecting permanent and tasty buildings in place of the temporary ones of the preceding year. The second fair was one of which the society had just reason to be proud. The weather was delightful, and during the whole four days the interest of exhibitors and visitors remained unabated. The display of animals and articles, in all the classes, with the exception of grain and vegetable products which, owing to the general backwardness of the season, were inferior, was large. In every respect this exhi- bition was an improvement upon the first. The ladies' department was well represented. They appeared to be animated by a zeal and interest in the success of this fair which was contagious. Their department was the great center of attraction during the fair, and well deserved to be so. About 1,000 persons were in attendance during the fair, mostly citizens of Logan County. The nnraber of entries was 520, and the number of premiums, 150. The receipts were much larger than at the first exhibition, and the amount paid in premiums threefold greater. The receipts at the gate and for entry fees met the necessary expenses of the fair, including premiums.

Thied Fair

The third annual fair of the society was held September 8, 9, 10 and 11, 1858, and althougii it had more to contend against than any of the preceding ones, among the principal of which were the pecuniary condition of the country, the extreme backwardness of the season, delaying the maturity of all the principal field crops and vegetables, and the unfavorable weather during the greater part of the fair, yet its abundant success satisfied those who perfected its organization that it had now become a permanent and successful institution, with a prospect, for the future of increased and constantly increasing usefulness to the agricultural interests of Logan County. The number of premiums awarded was 134, and the number of entries about the same as the previous year. There was a manifest itnprovement in the stock upon exhibition over thatof the two preceding years, and all of the departments were well represented.

Fourth Faie

The fourth annual fair was held October 4, 5, 6 and 7, 1859. During the previous year the following had been chosen an Executive Committee: S. H. Jones, James Coddington, D. G. Evans, P. R. Marquart and John W. Gasaway. R. B. Latham was Secretary, and T. J. Larson, Marshal, with^J. Miller, A. U. Stone, E. Bowman and L. Rosentlial as Assistant Marshals. A liberal premium list was oifereJ, and several special features were included, of which the fallowing was one:

"There will be paid $50 to any 'person in Logan County who will kill, in said county, by himself and dogs, or any device, the greatest number of rats, between the 1st day of June, 1859, and the first day of the fair, and produce the scalps entire, accompa- pied with an affidavit that no other person or persons assisted him or her in killing said rats, and that he or she has not acquired a scalp either by purchase or gift. And $30 will be paid for next greatest number. And $20 for the third greatest number."

The fair was reasonably successful, and encouraged its projectors. The attendance was about 2,500 on each of the two principal days, enough to more than pay expenses. The officers chosen for the succeeding year were: James Tuttle, of Atlanta, President; D. G. Evans, of Salt Greek, Vice-President; G. H, Campbell, of Lincoln, Secretary; William H. Dustin, of Lincoln, Treasurer.

Fifth Fair

The fair held October 3, 4 and 5, 1860, was eminently successful. The weather was delightful, and everything went off to the satisfaction of the managers. The officers elected for the next year were: President, Benjamin Donan; Vice-President, Isaac Y. Cunningham; Secretary, William H. Young; Treasurer, William H. Dustin; Executive Committee, C. H. Geer, R. B. Latham, Ezra Boren, James Coddington and Thomas J. Larison.

Sixth And Sevknth Fairs

The sixth fair was held in September, 1861, and the seventh two or three years later. No reports of these are preserved. The war caused the people to lose interest, for a time, in the society, and it was finally considered dead.

Eighth Annual Fair

In 1868 interest was revived in the society, and the eighth annual fair, begun September, 30, was in every respect a success. Nearly all the departments made a good showing, and the horses and cattle were especially fine in quality and numerous in quantity. The display of hogs and sheep was equally good, and there was an endless variety of unclassifiable articles in the ladies' department and art gallery. The races were interesting, even to a mule race, one mile dash, which was decided by the judges to be a dead heat. On Friday afternoon, after an exhibition of ladies' equestrianism, a portion of the amphitheatre gave way, supposedly on account of the instananeous rising of those there seated. A space of about twenty feet in length and eight or ten in width fell with a crash, precipitating those standing thereon to the ground below, a distance of ten or twelve feet. This accident caused the greatest confusion, every one rushing to the scene, anxious for the safety of their friends. After they were extricated from the rubbish, it was found that the injuries of the majority were but slight. Two persons had limbs broken, and several were bruised.

Ninth Annual Fair

The fair of 1879 was held the five days beginning September 7, and came up to the expectations of all who considered the unfavorable season. The spring had been very wet, and as a consequence not a very good exhibit was made [in the departments of farm and garden products. In the cattle and hog departments the display was good. A special feature this year was the baby show, on Thursday. About a dozen and a half were on exhibition. The interest on Friday centered in the trial of ladies' equestrianism, six ladies contending for the two prizes, which were awarded to Mrs. Myrta Dement and Miss Allen, sisters. The usual races cjime oft at the close of each day's exhibition.

Tenth Annual Fair

Equally successful was the fair of 1870, held duringthe five days beginning August 30. The entries in the horse and cattle departments were unusually large, and floral and art halls presented a fine display. Farm and garden products were well represented, the season having been favorable. Friday was the gala day of this fair, the special attraction being a baloon ascension, to witness which 10,000 people assembled at the fair grounds. The aeronaut was a lady, who made a trip of about a half a mile and then descended, the whole occupying about ten minutes time. The races this year were unusually exciting, and the side shows and moneymaking devices were more numerous than ever before.

Eleventh Annual Fair

A liberal list of premiums, double in value those of 1870, were offered for the fair held September 5-9, 1871, and to meet the increased expenditure the price of admission tickets was raised. This resulted in a small attendance, so that the fair was not a financial success. As an exhibition, t*his year's display was very good. In thoroughbred, matched and carriage horses, and in draft and farm horses, one might not see a finer collection in a life time. There was a falling off in the number of entries in the art gallery and in floral hall.

For financial and other reasons the society was re-organized July 20, 1872, a new constitution was adopted, and the following officers were elected: President, Joseph Ream; Vice-President, George "Warren; Secretary, C. M. Knapp; Treasurer, "William M. Dustin; Directors, Sorell Doten, Thomas Wendell, John A. Critchfield, G-eorge Noble, "William Armstrong, Thomas Edes, G. "W. Edgar, W. A. Mills, George D. Bojden, J. S. Randolph and M. Henrichsen.

Twelfth Annual Fair

The first fair of the re-organized association began October 1, and continued five days. The display of graded cattle, and draft and work horses was not large. In floral and art halls the exhibit was far above the average. As a whole, the fair was a success as an exhibition, but a failure financially. Tiie attendance Thursday and Friday was reasonably good, but not up to tbe expectations of people generally, while scarcely a corporal's guard were witnesses of the show on Saturday. The occasion was a great political meeting at Mt. Pulaski, where General Logan spoke to some 15,000 people. For the ensuing year, the association chose as -President, Joseph Ream; Vice-President, George "Warren; Secretary, C. Murray Knapp; Treasurer, "William M. Dustin; Directors, Joseph Bell, R. A. Talbot, George D. Boyden, M. Henrichsen, S. B. Evans, George "W. Edgar, Thomas Edes, John A. Critchfield, Uriah Warren, Ed. Martin and Sorell Doten.

Thirteenth Annual Fair

The Logan County fair of 1873 was held during the five days beginning September 9, and although fairs were held the same week in McLean, Tazewell and Menard counties, in spite of unfavorable weather on the best day, there was a goodly attendance. The receipts were $3,500, enough to pay all premiums, but leaving the society a little short on miscellaneous expenses. The weather was fine on Tuesday and Wednesday; Thursday was hot and dusty; Friday was rainy in the forenoon and threatening in the afternoon, thus spoiling the" most profitable day of the week; Saturday was clear and cool. The exhibition was by far the best ever held on the grounds up to date. More good cattle were shown than ever before in the county, and the display of horses was very large, there being 269 entries.

The following officers were elected: President, Joseph Ream; Vice-President, John Thomas; Secretary, C. M. Knapp; Treasurer, W. M. Dustin; Directors, Harry Sisson, Sorell Doten, Walter Lawrence, George Boyden, H. L. Pierce, Thomas Kenyon, Thomas Edes, E. D. Blinn, J. A. Critohfield, Joseph Bell and James Keyes.

Fourteenth Annual Faie

The fair held September Y-11, 1874, was successful financially, as well as otherwise. It was the first time since the grounds were bought that the institution paid expenses. The weather was fine the entire week. The last two days were a little dusty, but not enough to incommode visitors. Thursday was the great day, and the attendance was between 5,000 and 6,000, the gate receipts being $1,570. On the closing day, too, there were not less than 2,500 on the grounds at one time. The total receipts were over $4,000. The horse show was better than for some years previous, and all the live-stock and poultry displays were good. Industrial and fine art halls were hardly up to the average. A saddle and bridle offered as premiums to the best boy riders under fifteen years of age brought out the most spirited contest ever seen, up to this time, on the association's grounds. There were twelve riders of various sizes, mounted on good, bad and indifferent horses, and offering curious contrasts in their manner and in their style of dress. Two or three were conspicuously neat, as if conscious that appearances go a long way with committees, while others rode in their shirt sleeves as if they had merely caught up Dobbin to go after the cows. The committee were a long time making their decision and the riding was frequently fast and furious, with imminent danger of collisions. Nelt Green received the first premium, though one of the smallest boys, and Tom Duff the second.

The officers chosen for 1874:-'5 were: President, Joseph Ream; Vice-President, John Thomas; Secretary, A. B.Nicholson; Treasurer, W. M. Dustin; Directors, Andrew Armstrong, John A. Critchfield, Sorell Doten, H. H. Sisson, George T>. Boyden, Frank Gerard, L. L. Hatton, M. H. Beaver, H. L. Pierce, J. "w. Wright, and Jacob Gehlbach.

Fifteenth Annual Faie

The week beginning Monday, August 23, 1875, was favored with fine weather, and the fair passed off pleasantly in every respect. Thursday, the principal day, there were over 5,000 people on the grounds, and the receipts were $2,600. The total receipts were $5,145.60, against $4,100 the previous year. Expenses were lighter than usual, so that the association made money. It closed this fair with a surplus of $570.25. A liberal premium list was offered, too. The best showing was made in horses. A number of additional stalls were erected for these. The total entries in all departments amounted to 1,386. For the next year the following were elected: President, Joseph Eeam; Vice-President, H. L. Pierce; Secretary, T. W. Kenyon; Treasurer, J. S. Eandolph; Directors, John Thomas, E. D. Blinn, J. "W. "Wright, Andrew Armstrong, Jacob Gehlbach, M. H. Beaver, Sorell Doten, George D. Boyden, H. H. Sisson, Frank Gerard and John A. Critchfield.

Sixteenth Annual Fair

The fair occupying the five days, August 21-25, 1876, was the most successful up to date held by the association. Fine weather prevailed throughout, and all the departments were unusually full. The races were unusually attractive, there being on hand a number of trotting and running horses with excellent records. The entries footed up - Horses, 410; trotting and running, 96; equestrian, 11; tournament, 17; fat men's race, 2; jacks and mules, 21; cattle, 101; hogs, 123; sheep, 53; poultry, 232; farm and garden, 68; farm and mechanical, 39; carriages, buggies, etc., 14; unenumerated, 14; manufactures, 31; domestic and factory fabrics, 77; needlework, 353; painting, etc., 132; flowers, birds, etc, 44; dairy products, etc., 37; canned and preserved fruits, 421; bread and cakes, 111; children's department, 345; botany and geology, 6; unenumerated, 31 - total, 2,789, a much larger number than in any previous year. On Thursday there were 7,000 people on the grounds at one time. The receipts for the week were not much less than $6,000.

The most novel feature of this fair was a tournament, in imitation of those held in medieval times. Of seventeen who entered twelve participated, besides Dr. Maull, of Middletown,who directed. The knights were not masked, but displayed ,a variety of costumes in which various colored velvets were slashed with crimson or yellow, and eccentric hats bore plumes of black, purple, yellow, or red. All were well mounted, though, as might have been expected, on horses of widely different sizes and colors. The Doctor marched them by company front, by platoons, in two ranks, in four ranks, etc., for a few minutes and then produced a book and called the roll after the following fashion: Richmond (Yance Oun- ningham), Douglass (Jeff Leavitt), Lohengrin (James Keys), Sir Launcelot (Miles Mannon), Malcolm Graeme (Charles Gerard), The Nameless Knight (John W. Keys), The Knight of the Garter (George Warren, Jr.), Red Rose Knight (S. H. Mannon\ Richard of the Lion Heart (James Canhon), Leopold (Hugh Binns), The Black Knight (William Theobald), Sir Arthur (E. Groves).

At equal intervals around the exterior of the arena seven posts had been planted, to which were nailed cross beams projecting inwardly. From the iuner end of each beam a wire depended, on the lower end of which was hui\g a ring about two and a half inches in diameter. The feat to be accomplished was to bear off the rings on the point of a spear while riding at a gallop. Three trials were allowed each knight. When at the command of the Doctor the first stout man-at-arms put his laace in rest and rashed amain at the rings, popular expectation was aroused to a high pitch, and there were cries of " Yah," " Yah," fi»om the crowd at each successful or unsuccessful effort to carry off a ring. The initiatory gallop was rewarded with four rings, which was regarded as quite satisfactory, but the next knight scored three, the one who followed him two, and finally the number dwindled to one. The crowd had been good natured enough hitherto, but now, apparently feeling that there was a limit to human endurance, and that a line must be drawn somewhere, chose to draw it on one ring, and the crestfallen knight went back to his station accompanied by a storm of derisive hoots and cries of " Take him out." Thus the contest went on with varying success until each knight had had his three tilts, when Sir Launcelot (Miles Mannon), having taken sixteen rings, was adjudged the victor.

Seventeenth Annual Fair

In spite of unfavorable weather, the fair of 1877, held August 19-24:, more than paid expenses. The total receipts were $5,800. The exhibition was considered good. The tournament feature was repeated this year, though with less preparation, and with but six competitors.

Eighteenth Annual Fair

From August 26 to the 30th, 1878, was held a fair which was pronounced by many to be the best of the series. Fine weather, judicious advertising and good management contributed to this desirable result. The authorities excluded all games of chance, shooting galleries and dance houses, one of the direct results be- ing a material decrease in the floating population of thieves and dead beats who gather in their harvest at fairs. The total receipts were about $5,500, which permitted a respectable balance on the favorable side of the ledger. The entries footed up 3,761, exclusive of several hundred which were made by merchants and others for display, and for which no premiums were offered. The increase was principally in floral hall where the exhibit was much better than any previous year. The entries by classes were: Horses, 419; equestrian, 18; madi-gras, 5i; mules, 14; cattle, 80; hogs, 136; sheep, 80; poultry, 116; mechanical, 152; farm and garden, 301; ladies' department, 773; fruit trees, flowers, etc., 920; musical instruments, etc., 40; painting, etc., 233; unenumerated, 20; children's department, 415.

Nineteknth Annual Fair

An equal degree of, improvement was made by the fair held August 25-29, 1879. The same policy of excluding gambling institutions and other objectionable features was maintained. Good weather brought a large attendance. The total entries numbered 4,447, the largest, up to that time, ever recorded by the association. Entries by classes were: Dairy, saccharine, etc., 518; fruits, trees and flowers, 1,157; musical instruments, pictures, etc., 278; textile fabrics, 670; children's department, 514; unenumerated, 30; horses, 436; equestrianism, 16; mules, etc., 21; cattle, 119; hogs, 157; sheep, 134; poultry, 227; mechanical arts, 93; mardi-gras, 72; unenumerated, 5. The event of the week, for excitement, was a mule race, there being three entries. The carnival was also an amusing feature. Apparently all the phenomenally poor horses and mules, ramshackle vehicles and old clothes in the county had been gathered up for the occasion. One of the companies was headed by an old woman in a white cap, driving a horse whose every Jbone stood out as if ready to break the skin drawn so tersely over it. The vehicle was a revolving hogshead marked " tobacco," while aloft was carried a banner bearing the legend " On to Kichmond; express A. D. 1779." The intention was to show the old Virginian method of marketing the tobacco crop. Two floats mounted on miserable wagons carried bands, disguised horribly and making discor4ant noises. One wagon bore a cook-stove with an old woman getting dinner; another carried a calf tricked out in a buffalo robe until hardly recognizable. There were figures on

The expenses this year were very heavy, and the annual report of the secretary showed the society to be $9.92 behind - not a very large debt. It was decided to place the unsold stock on the market, as only a portion of the $20,000 allowed by the constitution had been taken. The officers elected were: President, Joseph Ream; Vice-President, Joseph Bell; Secretary, A. B. Nicholson; Assistant Secretary, A. Denny; Treasurer, Simon Rock; Directors, A. Armstrong, E. D. Blinn, J. Wilmot, L. Rosenthal, F. Gerard, M. A. Beaver, M. Spitly, John Thomas, H. H. Sisson, H. L. Pierce and Thomas "Wendle.

Twentieth Fair

A drouth prevailed in the months of July and August, 1880, which caused the farmers to hesitate about bringing out their stock, and hence the fair held August 23-27 was not up to the average.

The attendance was not so good. The receipts were about $4,- 500, and the society was obliged to scale down their premiums for the first time in their history. The officers elected for 1881 were: President, Joseph Ream; Yice-President, Joseph Bell; Secretary; "W. H. Derby; Treasurer, H. L. Pierce; Directors, A. Armstrong, J. T. Foster, Elias Buckles and S. Linn Beidler, F. Gerard, A. B. Nicholson, William Wendle, Martin Spitly, M. H. Beaver, John Thomas and H. H. Sisson.

Twbntt-Fikst Fair

The fair of 1881, August 22-26, was the most disastrous of any of late years. The drouth and heat up to the last moment, and then untimely rains, affected both the exhibition and the attendance, and the receipts were little more than half what they should have been. Premiums were scaled again.

At the annual meeting held January li following, the following officers were chosen: President, Joseph Ream; Yice-President, H. L. Pierce; Secretary, T. H. Stokes; Treasurer, A. B. Nicholson; Directors, A. Armstrong, William D. Duff, M. H. Beaver, S. Doten, William Wendle, John Thomas, Henry Ahrens, John Mourer, John A. Oritchfield, B. P. Andrews and Lewis Rosenthal.

Iwentt-Second Faie

The next fair, August 28 to September 1, 1882, was one of the most successful fairs in late years. This was due to the good weather, and also to the introduction of two special features - a reunion of former residents of Logan County, and a reunion of old soldiers, under the auspices of the Second Cavalry. The former registered to the number of forty or more, while many old residents were present who did not report. No meeting or special exercises were held, but all wore white badges bearing these words: "First Reunion of Former Residents of Logan County, Fair Grounds, Lincoln, Illinois, August 31, 1882. Should auld acquaintance be forgot? "

At the soldiers' reunion there were nearly forty members of the Second Illinois Cavalry present, and they formed a permanent regimental association. Officers were elected for the ensuing year. The One Hundred and Sixth Infantry also took steps toward organization with a view to a i-eunion in 1883. Several hundred ex-soldiers, members of other regiments, were also present. Addresses were delivered by Major M. "Wemple, of Mt. Pulaski; Captain J. H. Rowell, of Bloomington, and General John A. Mc- Clernand, of Springfield.

Twenty-Third Faie

This was one of the most successful of the series. Good weather brought a fine array of exhibits, and a very large attendance. The receipts were over $6,000, enabling the association to apply about $1,000 toward the liquidation of old indebtedness.

In the spring of 1883 the agricultural and driving park associations were consolidated, and these directors chosen: T. W. Kenyon, A. B. Nicholson, M. EL. Beaver, Fred Dittus, Adolph Dittus, Adolph Rimmerman, T. H. Stokes, W. D. Dufi", Silas Rosenthal, A. Rothschild, S. Doten, B. P. Andrews, ^.E. D. Bliiin, William "Wendle, W. H. Traner and R. B. Latham. These directors chose A. B. Nicholson as President; R. B. Latham, Vice-President; E. H. Stokes, Secretary; Silas Rosenthal, Secretary of the speed ring, and B. P. Andrews, Treasurer.

Twenty-Fodeth Faie

The fair held August 25-29, 1884, was favored with good weather and was considered a success. A special feature was "children's day," when school children were admitted free. Between 3,000 and 4,000 attended. A parade of the children brought out 751 in line. Prizes were given the school making the best showing.

Twenty-Fifth Fair

The twenty-tifth fair, held September 7-11, 1885, opened with very unfavorable weather. Monday was cloudy and threatening up to about 4 p. M., when matters grew worse and a steady rain began. It was a cold, persistent rain, with the wind in the southeast, and people shook their heads and wondered if it would last three or four days. The discouraging patter continued all night, but on Tuesday morning the downpour ceased, and by 10 o'clock the wind had changed and the sky began to clear. Thus the fair was in rather a backward condition at the close of the second day. Wednesday was also rainy and cold, but Thursday and Friday, the two principal days, were favored with pleasant skies and air. The exhibition of horses and cattle each day was remarkably good, and most of the other departments made a respectable showing. In spite of the rain, the receipts were $5,500, which paid all bills. Visitors generally agreed that this was the bestjfair ever given in Logan County.

The Atlanta Union Oentbal Agrioultuba.L Society

was organized in 1860 and incorporated by special act of the Legislature in 1861. A. N. Dills, A. C. Barnes, Joseph Bell, Isom S. Atchison, G. N. Bryson, Ezra T. Kenyon, J. E. Hoblit, Alex. Downey, P. R. Marquart, J. A. Pitts, A. J. Ludlam and |Ellis Dillon acting for the society were the incorporators.

This organization was the outgrowth of the enterprise and progress exhibited by this community. They early saw the advantages arising from breeding a high grade of stock and cultivating the more productive and improved varieties of grain and frait,[and wisely thought an agricultural society one of the best means to promote this end.

From its inception the idea that this was to be a union fair has been kept prominently in view and its stockholders and patrons are distributed in the four counties of Logan, McLean, DeWitt and Tazewell, In this is found one of the elements of its phenomenal strength. While nearly all similar societies are limited in their organization to one county this points with pride to the fact that four of the finest agricultural counties of the great State of Illinois equally unite in its support. Among its 184 stockholders are found many of their most progressive and enterprising farmers, stock-raisers and business men.

The grounds are located on a beautiful tract of land of thirtyfive acres adjoining the city of Atlanta on the south, one-half mile from the city square. Centrally located, it has always commanded the united support of its first patrons. Few societies in the State can boast of finer grounds because few have been in continued operation for twenty-six years. During these many years groves of native and evergreen trees have been carefully cultivated and now groups of beautiful shade trees are scattered over the grounds. An abundance of water is obtained from wells. Their buildings are convenient, commodious and handsome. Long lines of roomy stalls for horses and cattle; a large number of comfortable pens for hogs and sheep; a substantial machinery hall; an extensive dining hall; a large semi-circular covered amphitheater, capable of seating several thousand persons; a tasty and ornamental band stand and an elegant new floral hall for the exhibition of farm and garden products, fruits, canned goods, fancy work, art displays, etc., all attest that the directors carefully study the interest of exhibitors and visitors alike. A circular race-track, facing the amphitheater, is laid out in the east part of the grounds. Since its organization twenty-six years ago this society has annually held a fair, with the exception of the year 1862, when the civil war absorbed every interest. The time for holding its meetings has usually been in September and is now fixed by by-law to begin on the first Tuesday in that month and continue four days.

.It must not for a moment be supposed that it has all been clear sailing and that their meetings have been a series of uninterrupted successes. Like all similar organizations, it has had its ups and downs, its bright and gloomy sides. But it has been especially fortunate in having a set of warm supporters who were neither willing to give up its life nor sacrifice its honor. While many of the cotemporary societies have been compelled to succumb and die and others to sacrifice their honor by prorating their premiums this one has succeeded in riding every storm and always paid its debts dollar for dollar. At one time its debts amounted to $2,700 and the directors were compelled to pledge their private obliga- tions to secure them, yet by careful and economical management everything was cleared and to-day it stands free of debt with a surplus of $1,500 in the treasury.

The display of horses, cattle, hogs and sheep is usually good. Liberal premiums are offered and are closely contended for. This annual display of line stock has led to the constant improvement of the breeds and has earned for this section of the country an enviable reputation in cattle, horses, hogs and sheep. Few finer rings of draft horses can be seen ."any where than at this fair, and the show of grade and thoroughbred cattle is superior.

In the halls the ladies vie with each other in canned fruits, bread, cakes, fancy, and useful articles, and the farmers in all the varied productions of farm and garden.

It has been the intention of the managers to make this more especially a stock and agricultural fair and they have ottered little encouragement to racing. There is a good track where some trials of speed are made, but no large purses are offered or special efforts put forth to make this a leading feature. Gambling devices of every kind are frowned down. The sale of all kinds of liquors are strictly prohibited, and every effort put forth to maintain a high moral standard.

Its affairs are managed by a president, four yice-p residents, a secretary, treasurer and a board of seven directors chosen from and by the stockholders. The election of ofiicers occurs annually on the first Saturday in November. The following named gentlemen have served the society as presidents for periods ranging from one to four years: 1860, A. W. Morgan; 1861-'62, A. K Dills; 1863, A. C. Barnes; 1864, J. A. Mills; 1865-'6, David Kern; 1867, Alex. Downey; 1868, Joseph Bell; 1869-'70, Aug. Eeise; 1871, Benj. Bean; 1872, W. H. Beverly; 1873, P. R. Marqaart; 1874-'5, Aug. Reise; 1876, J. W. Yeazell; 1877, A. N. Dills; 1878, J. H. Bell; 1879, Aug. Reise; 1880-'l, Frank Hoblit; 1882-'6, Ed. Stubblefield. All of these are men who have had much to do with the progress and development of this community, and the history of the society shows the impress of their energy and judgment.

Only four gentlemen have held the position of secretary since the organization, each of them being well-fitted for the duties: S. D. Fisher, for many years secretary of the State Board of Agriculture, served this society from 1860 to 1868 and from 1869 to 1874. Frank Hoblit held the position for the year 1868; 0. L. Downey for the years 1875 to 1879, inclusive, when the present secretary, J.

P. Hieronymus, was elected and has held the position ever since. On the secretary devolves the more arduous and routine duties, and the above gentlemen deserve much praise for the proficiency and care with which they have performed them.

The Board of Directors meet regularly on the last Saturday of each month for the transaction of the business of the society. They have uniformly been a conservative body of men, quick to see and grasp an opportunity for advancing the interests of the institution over which they watched.

A list of the premiums offered is annually published and distributed throughout the country. It is carefully revised each year and such changes made as experience and the times demand. The premiums are liberal and quite a large sum of money is annually distributed in this manner throughout the community. Since its organization there has been paid out through the various channels of the society $85,836.14.

The authorized capital stock is $20,000. The par value of each share of stock is $20. The number of shares issued is 296. The present cash value of the grounds and improvements is estimated at $7,500.

The corps of officers chosen for the ensuing year of 1S86 are Ed. Stubblefield, President; Jesse Stubblefield, P. E.. Marquart, George Kobb and J. H. Bart, Vice-Presidents: J. P. Hieronymus, Secretary; 0. H. Turner, Treasurer; J. L. Bevan, Attorney; A. L. Hoblit, Assistant Secretary; Jacob Funk, W. H. H. Ross, Silvester Hoblit, "W. B. Stroud, Jr., Elias Harness. J. H. Bell and Joseph Garrett, Directors. Several of them have served the society for several years in various capacities.

Authority is granted by the constitution to establish an institution of learning in connection with the society, the object of such institution being to introduce a course of more thorough instruction in those branches of science that more directly concern an agricultural community as well as the other arts and sciences, and in connection with it to conduct a farm for experimental purposes, dp to the present time the society has never followed out this provision.

A feature which has received a good deal of attention of late years and added considerable interest has been the organization of the " Old Settlers' Union" and their meeting held in connection with the fair.

ricultural Board at the fair grounds September 7, 1880. All residents of the counties of Logan, McLean, Tazewell and De Witt who have lived in Illinois forty years are eligible to membership and were cordially invited to be present. Silk badges were provided to distinguish the old settlers, blue tor those persons who had lived in Illinois fifty years and red for those who had been in the State forty years. A largs number responded to the invitation and a permanent organization was effected. The society gave theui the use of a pleasant grove, known as Old Settlers' Grove, for holding tlieir annual meeting and accompanying exercises. They also present all members with a complimentary ticket of admission to the grounds on the day of this meeting - the first day of the fair each year.

The organization has some energetic members who have been very successful in enlisting the old settlers in the effort to perpetuate the memory of the struggles and pleasures of early life in Illinois. Many curious relics of the pioneer are exhibited. In 1881 they decided to erect a " Monumental Log Cabin " in their grove, each member being allowed to contribute one log or piece toward the building. The committee to solicit contributions were Ed. Stubblefield and Jacob Funk for McLean Oount7; Sylvester Strong, David Bowles andE. S. Ewing for Logan County; E. Hieronymus and L. M. Stroud for Tazewell County; E. H. Kobb and Wm. Teal for De Witt County. The material was on the ground by July 1 and ready for use. The interest shown will be seen when it is stated that some of the logs were hauled or shipped by rail a distance of twenty miles for tlie honor of being placed in the cabin. Enoch Hieronymus was appointed to superintend and the following persons selected as " Corner Men :" ISTortheast corner, McLean County, Rev. A. T. Orr and Jesse Stubblefield; Northwest corner, Tazewell County, Ellis Roberts and Oliver Mason; Southwest corner, Logan County, John A. Howser and G. I. Harry; Southeast corner, De Witt County, Samuel Huff and Jos. B. Garrett.

The building erected Aug 16, 1881, was a substantial log cabin, 18 x20, common in the country forty years ago. The pioneers also in 1882 erected a small cabin of unhewn logs, using neither nail nor modern device in its construction. This is a monument to the " Snow Birds," or settlers previous to the deep snow of 1830-'31. Many of the members have planted trees around the cabins, adding much of personal interest to it.

In addition to the above building, the pioneers,or those who were of the age of fifty years and upward, erected, the year following, another building of logs that were not hewn, such as the old pioneers, or first settlers of this country, built upon their arrival here. These two buildings stand as a monument to the class of men and women who subdued and brought under cultivation the wild prairies of Illinois, and made it all that it is worth to-day. But the troubles and trials, and hardships, and privations, and dangers, none but those that till similar places will ever know anything about.

Frank Hoblit has probably been more instrumental than any other one person in organizing and perpetuating this pleasant feature of " fair week. "

Quite a number of men of national reputation have addressed the old settlers at their meetings. Among them are Hon. David Davis, Shelby M. CuUom, Richard J. Oglesby, Judge Jno. M. Scott and General Samuel Gary.

The fair grounds are a favorite resort for celebrating the Fourth of July, an event for which Atlanta has become quite famous throughout the surrounding country. The grounds are free to the public on that day, where shade or shelter are readily at hand.

Taken all together no agricultural society in the State has been better managed in the past or has brighter prospects for the future than the Atlanta Union Central Agricultural Society. 5'