BY TH [*1 L! EXECUTIVE Michigan State llIO NTIILY COMMITTEE EEE Grange, P. of H. Von. 3,—NoI?.. ‘i_ WHOLE No. 5 SCHOOLCRAFT, FEBRUARY 1st, 1878. _i YOUR SUBSCl‘»Il’TION i will Expire with No. THE GRANGE VISITOR, Is Published on the First and Fifteenth of every Month AT FIFTY CE.\"'I‘S PER ANNUM, _ Invariably in Advance. J. T. COBB, -s - Mzumger. To whom all C.omm=.:nic:1tions should be ad- dressed, at Sc.hoolcr:1.i't, Mich. Remittances should he by llegisiereil Letter, Money Order or Draft To (‘on1ri'uutors. As the VISITOR now hours (late the 1st and 15th of each month, to insure insertion in the next issue, Communications must be received by the 10th and 25th of each month. \Ve in— ' vite attention to those interested to our new Heading “ To Conru:sroNnr.:s.'rs." Runs or ADVERTISING : Acceptable advertisements inserted at the : rate of $2.00 per sqviare, for each insertion. A Liberal discount will be made on standing advertisements of three months or more. @ For G)Tt7l._I/e Supplifcs /mp! by the Secretary/, see “ LIST or SUrrLir.s ” on eight}: page. Officers National Grange. MAsrEn—S. E. ADAMS, Minn. OVEBSEI-:R~—J. J. WOODMAN, Mich. LEC'rURI-:R—l\IORT’MR WHITEHEAD, N. J. b‘ri~:wAnD’—A. J. v.\i:1:n):. Miss. Assr. SrEwARn—WILLIAM SIMS, Kansas. Cn.u>LA1.\'—A. P. FORSYTH. Illinois. TREASURER-—F. M. MCDOWELL, N. Y. SECRETAB.Y~—O. H. KELLEY, Kentucky. GATE-KEE1>ER—O. DINWIDDIE, Indiana. C1«:nr.s—Mns. S. E. ADAMS, Minnesota. POMONA—MRS. J. J. WOODMAN, Michigan. FLORA—MRS. JAS. T. MOORE. Maryland. LADY Assrrsrnrvr STEWARD— MISS CARRIE A. HALL, Kentucky. Officers Michigan State Grange. M.~—J. J. VVOODMAN, - - O.—P. W. ADAMS, . - L.-—C. L. WHITNEY, - - S.—H. FLEMING, - - - Pontiac, A. S.—W. H. MATTISON, - - Ionia. C.—SALMON STEEL, Bear Lake. Manis’e Co T.—-S. F. BROWN, - - Schoolcraft. SEc.—J. T. COBB, - - j - M G. K.—A. N. WOODRUFF, - VVatervliet. CERES.—MES. C. L. WHITNEY, Muskegon. POMONA—MRS. W. T. ADAMS, Grand Rapids. FLOB.A—M.RS. J. J. WOODMAN, Paw Paw. L. A. S.—MBS. W. H. MATTISON, Ionia. Paw Paw. - Tecumseh. Muskegon. Executive committee. F. M. HOLLOWAY, Chairman, - Hillsdale. J. WEBSTER CHILDS, — _ - Yp5ila,nti_ GEO. W. WOODWARD, Shelby, Oceans. 00. THOMAS MARS, Berrien Center, Berrien Co, 0- Gr LUCE. - - Gilead, Branch 00 VVM. SATTERLEE, Birmingham, Oakland Co’ WESTBROOK DIVINE, Belding, Ionia Co. J. J. WOODMAN, J. T. COBB, - Ex. Officio. State Business Agent. J. H. GARDNER, Centreville, St. Joseph Co. General Deputy. C. L. WHITNEY, - - - Special _L3cturers. Muskegon. Th°5- F- M00115, - . - . . . Adrian . . . . . Lenawee C‘ Geo. W, W oodward. .Shelby,’. . . . .Ocea.na. C: Samuel 1-ausdon, ..Bowen Station Kent co 13- 0- Heflingliollyu .Four Towns,. .’Oakland Co M. L. Stevens, . . . . . . . .I’erry. . . . Shiawassee Co L. R. Brown,... .Rawsonville,, _Wa511ten,,_w 00 Andrew C3mPl391l.. .Ypsilanti,_ _ u as ‘Mrs. Salmon Steele,. .Bear Lake,. .Ma.nistee Co UNDER existing regulations we are required to send a copy of the VISITOR _/1'86 to the Master of each Subordinate G"3n89- VVe shall also send 3 free to all Secretaries who send uscotpy or more names of subscribers for 0:); Yea‘. With pay for the same. Ii.m:t’1.*e @9111. £1‘-11i11‘t111r11t. PAST, PR ESENT AND FUTUR E. BY 0. z. FELLOWS. Sigh for the past, and glance across The waste of years, and mourn the loss, Mourn for that which thou shalt see Blot the page of memory. All the hopes of early years, All the brightest dreams of youth, Felt the chill of doubts and fears In the sternness of the truth. In the present, nobly act ; Life's a stern, undoubted fact; Man is weak, but mind is strong, Right must ever conquer wrong. Work with faith and work in love. Stout of heart and true as steel ; Put your trust in God above, Put your shoulder to the wheel. In the future without fear Hope for that which seemeth near, And in hoping labor still With a. purpose and a will. Thus in spite of doubts and fears You may realize in truth, All the hopes of early years, All the brightest dreams of youth, [Dirigo Rural. Let us Beantify our Homes. BELRIEN CENTRE, Jan. ‘list, 1878. Brother 1 T. Cobb: I As I have been personated to write up articles on the subject of “True Hospitality of the American Farmer's Home," I will ask : Farmers of Mich- igan, have you hospitable and invit- ing homes? If not, I want you to go to work and make them so. “That do we live for if it is not for true en- joyment, and how can we have that enjoyment if our homes are distaste- ful to our neighbors, our friends, and passers-by? There is no farmer that can not afford to spend a few leisure moments in fixing up around the house and garden. If we feel unable to purchase costly evergreens and shrubbery to ornament with, let us go to the near wood-lot, then select rock maple, elm, or other suitable trees and plant them tastefully in the front and back yard and garden, sow grass seed and keep the lawn nicely mowed and raked off; arrange little mounds with stone or sod, plant there- in some attractive flowering plants; arrange tastefully a flower garden ; assist the wife and daughters in doing the hard work, and I assure you they will look after the remainder. Keep your back lot looking as neat as the front; see that every species of de- caying substances are picked up, and do not allow any filth to remain upon the ground to decay and germinate disease. If you will devote alittle time to this matter, you will soon be convinced that such labor well performed pays—’ pays if your ever offer your farm for sale, but pays an hundred fold in the enjoyment it insures to yourself, your family, and your friends. When we return home from a hard day’s work we are attracted at once to the flower-garden and lawn, and seeing everything nice, we feel like in- viting our neighbors. to dine with us, _ and see our pleasant home. If we do not have all the luxuries on the table we could wish for, when through eating we step out on the front lawn and see everything neat and tasteful, what we do eat will set well, but if everything is at loose ends—boards, chips, rags, bones, and a thousand other things meet your view, you will conclude that the less you have on the stomach the better. More anon. THOMAS ll/IARS. BERRIEN CENTRE, Jan. 14, ’78. Bro. Cobb .-—You will have to excuse me, for not writing sooner, I have been busy since I last saw you visiting Granges. I find an awakening to the benefits of our cause which I think you will see from the increase in the sub- scription list of the VISITOR. Berrien Centre Grange, No. 1-1, voted to sub- scribe a copy to each family belonging to the Grange, and pay for same from its treasury. There is a general dispo- sition to sustain the Visrroit, as now issued. Berrien County Grange, No. 1, ~ held its annual session on the 8th of the present month; a full attendance. In- itiated twenty-three members; held a two days session. Elected the following ofijcers for the ensuing year: Master.-—'l‘lios, Mars. Overseer,—J. B. Medzger. Lecturer.—S. J. Barnard. Stevl'ard.—Freeman Franklin. Asst. Stcward.—David Schnarf. Chaplain.—E. R-. Harding, Treasurer.——C. F. Howe. Secretary.—Ch:irles Hogue. Gate Keeper.—‘Mr. Bishop. Pomona.—Mrs. T. Mars. Cei=es.—M rs. Tichnor. Flora.—Mrs. Hamilton. 1Stewardess.—Mrs. Dewitt. Buchanan Grange Sisters fed us on the fat of the land for the entire time. and we felt at home by the time we took supper the last evening. All went home feeling well paid for the two days spent. We have a special meeting 2nd Tues- day in February, at Berrien Springs to discuss the wool question. Our next regular meeting will be held at the new hall in Pipestone on last Tuesday in May. I shall be on the tramp for some time to come. Success to the Grange. Yours, Fraternally, 'I‘Hos. IVIARS. The Bug: on Wool. BOSTON, Jan, 17.—The leading wool manufacturers, dealers and importers, in session to-day, adopted a memorial to congress, setting forth the general depression of the wool market and the disadvant-eges under which both pro- ducers and manufacturers now labor in this country. The memorial con- cludes as follows :- We, therefore, most respectfully re- quest that in the revision. of the tariff, duties on all wools may be largly reduced if not wholly removed, and that mohair camel’s hair, alpaca, vicuna and similar materials, not produced in this country, may be admitted free of duty; and that the duties on woolens may be fixed at a moderate rate, corresponding with the scale adopted on other l’.Il8.l]IlfJCtlll‘8S.—- Detroit Eve. Telegraph. THE above shows the necessity of farmers attending to their own busi- ness, as manufocturers seem to be at- tending to theirs, by a concert of ac- tion worthy of imitation. Forward those remonstrances to Congress. Education of Farmers. The importance ofeducating a farmer is generally acknowledged by all. Not long ago the merest rudiments of farming was sufiicent for a farmer. That day has passed. Free Schools are the glory of VVisconsin. The poorest farmer may feel proud that he lives in a. State where he can educate his chil- dren in the common schools, as though he were a millionaire ; and the young man in Wiscconsin who grows up in ignorance has no one to blame but him- self. If the parent in his greed for gain, shall neglect to give his child the bene- fit of our free schools in his childhood, still there is time if the child wills, to procure for himself the common branches. The parent who thus fails to give his child the advantages of our free schools, is unfit tor fredom or the benefits ofour free institutions. There , are problems to be solved by this and the coming generations, of vast im- portance, and who shall solve them so well as the educated farmer? ‘ How long shall the f'ar1uer continue ; to give all the profits of hard labor, to other persons for doing a business that he is perfectly competent to do for ‘ himself, and thus save for himself and family the wealth that so freely flows I into the hand of the manufacturer. ‘ This and other problems are now awaiting a solution There is too much ignoi-a'nce among farmers. They read, study and think too little. Too few there are who really think for themselves. Many, and too many seem to think the soil is at fault if it ‘fails to yield an abundant harvest simply by being half plowed, half dragged, or halfhoed. Some rely upon the moon for a governor; some think luck is against them. Some are not farmers who till the soil; they are running in the same ruts their fathers run in. They ought to have lived 53. century ago. Knowledge both practi- cal and scientific, has spread rapidly in the last fifty years. VVitne'ss the plow, spade, and hoe, the reaper in lieu of the sickle ; the mower in p‘ace of the scythe; the horse rake in place of hand rake ;—who but a simpleton would fall back to the tools of fifty years ago. There are evidences of knowledge; and who can tell the coming farmer's advantages to be gained by increased knowledge. Genius has turned man’s labor into horse labor. The horse tills the ground and sows the seed; kills the weeds and harvests the crop. Genius mounts the sulky rake; his horse may load, and draw, and pitch. The flail is laid aside. The threshing machine does more work in an hour and does it better than formerly was done in a Week by man alone. Genius attaches steam to the thresher; steam to the wagon and to the plow. Horses now may retire while water fuel shall do their once heavy labor. Who can foretell what genius may yet do for the educated farmer? Oh glorious genius, oh glorious knowledge, much hast thou done and how much wilt. thou do yet for humanity ? ‘fA good laborer places faith in -. ...,..«.--as-......... God; ” by the help of genius he sows his seed in the morning, and hopes it may bring forth in the evening. He does his work well and trusts implicit- ly the Great Ruler to reward him richly for his labors. This faith is like an anchor to the soul, and he who has this faith-is steadfast. He that ruleth the universe, doeth all things well. Truly a good laborer places faith in God, and na_.tui'es hope, that the early and late rains may bring forth first the blade, then the car, then the full grown corn in the ear. Hope elevates the heart, stimulates to ener- gy and prepars the way for harvest. A good harvester dispenses charity, Who is so ready as a good harvester or grower to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and contribute to the ne- cessities of humanity? Truly Saint Paul says, “Charity suflereth long and is kind; envieth not, is not puffed up, rejoiceth in truth, beareth all things, hopeth all things, endureth in all things, and never faileth.” A good husbandman is noted for his fidelity. Fidelity to his God, fidelity to his family, fidelity to his neighbor, fideli ty to the world. Faith, Hope, Charity, Fidelity. Whosoever is possesed of those four is a good subject for a farm- er, a merchant, a mechanic, a laborer. a President, a King, or Potentate, a Jew or Gentile; a husband, wife, son or daughter; a neighbor, friend or brother. Surely these four make a good man or woman, and a good Pa- tron of Husbandry. England has solved the problem of co-operation,‘ and it is a. success. Will the farmers of the United States take advantage of their experience and go and do like- wise, or shall we plod on in the old ruts? Education will surely come in time for our posterity. Why may we not lay hold of it and hasten the good time coming ‘.9 VVe need educa- ting to pay as we go. Credit and poverty go hand in hand. Education will teach us to govern as well as to be governed. It will teach us to vote right as well as to think right. Crip- ple the farmer and you cripple the nation; build up the farmer and you build up a nation of solid growth and wealth. Therefore any law wheth- er it be of National, State, County, or Town origin that is injurious to the farmer, is equally so to the mechanic. Anything that crushes us to the earth crushes them; anything that builds us up builds them up. Show me a pros- perous" farming community, and I will show you prosperous towns and cities, prosperous mechanics and a contented people. I imagine that the Legislature of Wisconsin at its last session made a mistake when it passed the law ex- empting the lands of a certain railroad company from taxation for a number of years, and I believe that class of farmers who they misrepresented will see to it that they never misrepresent them again. If railroad money or railroad whiskey or raiload tears, can lead our farmers into the support of such an accursed law, we had better cease sending farmers to the Legisla- ture, and trust our interest to that class of men known as political gamblers. We could not be worse represented, and the chances are. that we might win occasionaly. Thieves fallirag out. But I anticipate a change. I look for a change; I do not believe the majority of farmers are dishonest, or are so under the control of party that can or will be driven by the party lash into the support of measures wholly antagonistic to their interest, much longer. I believe the time will come, and perhaps is now, when we farmers of Wisconsin will take a turn at helping ourselves. Thus far we have sought every ones interest but our own. Nearly all our laws are en acted in some other interests. we want to get out of the clutches of this set of men. _ . Its all right for politicians,but mighty poor picking for us. If we wish a re- peal of the exemption law we can have it; if we wish a “Potter law” we can have it; if we wish all property tax_ed equal, we can have it; if we wish school books at less than one half of the present cost, we can have them. If the rate of interest is too high we can reduce it. All is within reach and we have but to reach out and take them. lVill we take them or will we still complain of abuses, wrongs, and evils and folloiv after such as only love us while we serve them ? Farm- ers’ Patrons of Husbandry, all, will we work and vote for our interests, will we pull together .7 How long will we consent to be the dupes of designing polititions and let our interests go by default ‘.3 We have the power, will we use it, let us be of one mind- united we stand, divided we fall. lVe would harm no one, but do good to all men alike; we would not abuse the ' power we possess, but would stand up manfnlly and vote for men and meas ures. L’-t party take care of party, away with party ties, and party devils; let the devil take care of its own, and we of ours. as farmers——shake off the party yoke, cast it far away—be men, be honest men, he upright men and fear not.— lVis. Bulletz'7i.. HUMOROUS. —Uiidue iiifluence——Paying a man his bribe before the appointed time. —The surest way to interest the Indian in agriculture is to show him that whisky is made out of corn. —“ I Would not Live Always” is an old song, but nowadays there are a great many persons who are trying all ways to live. —A lady hit upon a new way of getting rid of the grasshopper plague. Her plan is to deposit the hoppers in a savings bank. —-—A Yankee paper wanting to com- pliment a live-stock journal says it is edited by a man whose head is chock full of live stock. A —The peculiar manner in which a man’s hand clings to the door knob in the morning indicates that the molas- ses candy party is surging through the land. —Nine men out of ten, when you run against them in the dark, will say Hello! The other one will utter the first syliable and leave you to com- plete the word. —The ladies are all down on the telephone. They don’t like to have a fellow whispering in their car, with his mouth, like Sheridan at Winches- ter, twenty miles away. ,—“My dear,” said a husband in startling tones, afier awakening his wife in the night, “I have swallowed a dose of strychnine!” ‘Well, then,‘ for goodness sake lie still, or it may come up,” —“ Mamma, where do the cows get the milk ?” asked Willie, looking up from the foaming pan of milk which he had been intently regarding.- “Where do you get your tears ?” was the answer. After a thoughtful si- lence he again broke out : “Mainma, do the cows have to be spanked? ” —I declare in the name of the Al- mighty God that no man has a right to be worth $100,000,000.-Talmage. We declare with a full realization of the awful enormity of the ofl'ense of trying to come it on Brother Talmage, that we- are not guilty. —Wm-cester Press. THE GRANGE VISITEZ , - reached a conservative, safe harbor, secure from the cyclones of adversity, ' and the mwlstrom of anarchy. In no The following paper Submitted bf)’ l age of the world’s history has there Bro. Sam’l Adams, the Master of the I been such 3- ravlflgi h0W11T::8' hfrde lfijf of at : §f.‘;’“3:£;?:.i“ :..:..*:.§::‘:“.-...:; 12:1,; Sessloh of the Nat10na1_Gra'nge Shims ‘ everything else the landmarks of our its present Master, a vigorous writer , fathers are removed; the desire to of broad conservative views, and an reach out after and to serve strange abiding faith in the value of the Or- l Gods runs riot,’ the Statesman is sunk l . - _ _ th f f] in the demagogue ' the standard of der of P of H to e armers O lvirtue, honor, integrity, intelligence The Graiige—- Its Benefits to the Ameri- can Farmer. l This should be our motto, ; this our aim. Again I appeal to you . America : T h F] ta ,6 t _ th andChristianityislowered;tliebroad- ot ecareu s u en ,. racing e . 1 , th h. t f O est liberty and the least restraint are isevera steps in e is oryo our r- , _ _ _ universally sought. In View of these , der, it is indeed strange that so many * , . facts, the question arises, what shall we changes should have been made in _the do to be Saved, how Shall our Order l fundamental laws in so brief a period. , , be made perpetual, sublime? VVill Those 1h ahd those out.’ all seemed continual alterations in our constitu- 9 anxious to make alterations. Those , , t t d b , motiveq 1 tion and by-laws give stability to the I 1” were 30 ha‘ 6 3' Vanohs " ' Order and its purposes ? l fmd those out Sought oohshhhh ohajhges lVill fickleness produce constancy 3 jlh order to produce speedy dlbrup" Will the conversion of this body i h1°“- into a sort of Chamber of Commerce, 1 ‘V9 ought to hmye been Warned‘ ‘ consisting for the most part of repre Iwe ought to have understood at 3‘ sentatives from a very few of the larger States give additional and glance the position of our enemies; when they were Soloho and Persistent 5 abundant proof of its National char- 5 in their demands for changes. Many J" actergz ifriends and _"eWSPaPerS aV°Wed1Y in l Will the elimination of the delic- § sympathy with our cause, took up the j 30), refinement‘ purity and the noble, i‘ refrain’ and they too gave utterance sentiments of fraternity from this part ,= to their outcries for mutation and j of our organization strengthen the supposed reform’ i’ Subordinate Granges? Will the de- . The upshot to this has been to ah‘ i‘ struction of the symmetry and beauty l nul untried regulations ; to enact manifested in the formation of our laws contrary to those already osh3‘b' Order throughout its various rades lished;withoutsubjectingformerones produce an good result? lllefih. not to fair trial or reasonable operation, deceive Ougrselves an 1'0” er ‘The and to create uncertainty, distrust, firesu on our alters gust ge éxtin _ I discord’ danger and gloom’ which Set’ I uishedpin no State. No invidious dias- tled like 3 death pan over the heads l tinctions must be made in the grand of our hopeful members‘ The ah‘ l chain of our nation. Alllinks should moms have been’. I ah.’ convmced’ for be of the same size,n;iade resplendent the most part imaginary, and the ' nnmberless doctors have been more I and Welded together by the enduring intent upon the application of pan- Egglggliis of Fraternity’ Equality aceas than the prosecution of ai 5'' . . . All the rational aims of our eo le thorough and complete diagnosis ofJ, - , P P the reputed disease. Some zivanted a may be accomphshed’ b” We must re- ! Farmer’s Club, without ceremony or m0e1:11t::,lt :,,V:lIlkta({,ii?,Ct::]:' eme hhoahlg I fees; seme Wanted rites shrouded in gveigh W‘;/1] What We say End gflac :76 the darkest mystery some Wanted to J do. Let us know no North, no South. . cleanse political cesspools; same want- . . r no E t l ed to start manufacturing enterprises; ! as ’ no West’ no large Slates’ no , . . 1 small States‘ but let us be animated Eggs::'3fEaf_;)e:ound11brar1e5 and to solely by the desire to be a united l ‘Some wanted a wonderful amount figfisgfgggg gzgogigg a‘1‘l"lY ‘E: acfvzmg :;:..§:;1;:“::;.a:s. ifgiglzgs tgaf, 1-‘ to 1 . 3.-D LE cw -- %,‘:Z;“i§g.°;‘:‘2.?.12?.‘:‘e§l.5‘.£’3.I:":’;f3:.“.} “t-e”-13--$3"-‘i’-i‘i3‘é’i«?-?'%?-2 or district meeting style. Some want- p0et,S1inspira't’i0n’ challonging thfough ed the female element recognized ggujflgrslziyefrz the Jlllbllalat praises of more, and some less. Some were hike peop e’an thehlaud sticklers for technicalities, and some Its of an admflmg World’ , held methods and details in contempt. Everybody seemed to want his pe- culiar notions engrafted upon our or- LANSING: Mich» 1390-. 1301: 1377- ganic law. ' EDITORS or HUSBANDMAN :—The Our constitution has been subject- Michigan State Grange met in its fifth ed to the administration of all sorts annual session in the hall of the House of no_strums, and the consequence is of Representatives of the Old State the life blood has been nearly experi- House, at 10 o'clock A. 31., Tuesday, mented out of it. I really believe that the 11th inst. the fundamental law of the Order was Worthy Master Woodman assumed never so wisely and closely adapted to the chair promptly at the hour. The the Wa_ntS Of the American farmer, as attendance of members and visitors is when it left the Georgetown Session. large; larger. than ever before. It is There was a clearly defined, vital largely composed of new members, or strength and potency in it. copied as at least of those who were not mem- it was, in many particulars, from the bers of the last Grange. But the most successful and the oldest organ. same earnest hopeful intelligence is izations of the day and country, It manifested here that was so apparent had the elements of unity, discipline, in the last session. The Grange is freshness and success cemented with composed of about 165 members, and fraternal sympathy and rational chari- nearly every seat is full. The session t-y is necessarily short, and a great deal of labor is crowded into a very short time. Before the close of ~,the first day’s proceedings the organization was completed in all its parts. The standing committees, sixteen in num- ber, were all announced. Each mem- ber was placed on some one of the several committees. Worthy Master Woodman is en- Michigan State The three golden links of Faith, Hope and Charity were circumscrib- ed by the perfect circle of Fidelity. Then, had a steady, firm course been adopted; had obedience been sternly inculcated to the law as it was, and the first unsteady, sleeping Palinurus been hurled overboard; the noble Grange ship, freighted with the prec- ious hopes of millions, would have , titled to great credit for the rapidity, THE "C GE"iv'f§i*EbiRT'V' smoothness and accuracy with which 3 business is transacted. The Patrons of this State are alittle proud of their 3' —- - Master. He is not only one of the best parliamentarians in the State, but one of the best men. His annual address was delivered in the afternoon ; It is of the first day of the session. a very full and carefully prepared document. This address read in con- nection with those previously pre- , sented by the Master leaves but little ‘ to be said in reference to the objects and aims of the Order. fl Secretary Cobb, also presented his annual report on the first day of the session. It is a complete and able record of the doings of his oflice for the last year. It is universally con- ceded to be the best of his reports.- It was good enough. While the mem- bership has fallen off to some extent, still the finances of the Grange seem to be in good condition. The Treas- urer’s report shows not a large amount of money in the treasury, but all debts are paid and a little money left. Petitions and memorials flow in from various parts of the State asking for a change in the laws and workings of the Order. But these petitions are not as numerous as at former ses- sions, indicating that the Order has become more crystalized in its views and purposes. The three questions which have occupied the attention of committees and the Grange to a great- er extent than any other have been: The future of the business agency? The publication of the Visitor .—° And how to revive dormant Granges.— Many other subjects have been con- sidered but these are the most impor- tant ones. The discussions are some times able and always earnest. Wednes- day evening a resolution was offered declaring the general principles of the Order. A long discussion was in- dulged in. A good feeling prevailed attended with a large degree of en- thusiasm. There is one astonishing thing about a State Grange. Its ses- sions continue for about te n hours daily. Of the one hundred and sixty five members present, at least one hundred and fifty are con- stantly in their seats. Ladies can be seen in their seats from nine o’clock A‘. )l., until ten P. M. with the excep- tion of three hours recess for dinner and supper. There is something iii- tensely interesting about these ses- _sions, or the Grange could not retain its members in their seats. There are evidences on all hands of the vast improvement made by the Order in- tellectually and socially, saying noth- ing about its _financial benefits. And these are important, greater than is generally supposed. The plaster ques- tion which has occupied so much of the time of the Grange and the Executive Committee for the last four years is for the present at least in a pretty good condition, if the Grange mill is pat- ronized as well as last year. The price of the article has been reduced bY '3he:Grange competition in the last fwo years one-half, or from four dol- firs P91‘ tori to two dollars. It is be- lieved that it is now cheap enough, or as Cheap as it can be afforded. Taken 2:8 a Whole one ‘thing seems to be evi- E ent, the Michigan Grange has come 0 stay, for it is in the hands of sturdy 8006 men and women. GRANGER. ‘A Y 011118‘ lady of Clinton, Iowa, sent twenty-five cents and a postage f"t‘}‘imP 1“ reply to an_ advertisement of ow to _make an impression,” and received for an answer, “Sit down on a pan of dough.” .______________‘_ u 13.80% . H. Thompson, former Lect. re: 0 the National Grange, is soon to start on a visit to Pomona and °°‘mtY Eranges in garious States. gastefs écpartmenf. J. WOODMAN, - — - ;_,_ PAW PA VV Address Deli\'ered at the Openinig of the Fnrniers’ Institute, at Paw Paw, Jan- uary 17th, 1878, by J. J. Woodman. Fotrmc-rs of Van _Bm'en Cozmiy and iVeste7'n Jllichigan .‘ VVe have met to compare views and discuss questions, intimately connect- ed with farming and the science of agriculture. “ The world moves,” its history is being written, and every page is headed with the Word progress. Although agriculture existed before literature or governments, and was made by Creative Wisdom, the first and most important calling of man, yet it was left for us of the nineteenth century, to place it where it justly belongs; among the sciences to be taught in the schools, studied as a ne- cessity, and followed as a profession. The history of the old world, has been but the history of oppression to the tiller of the soil. He has been deprived of the ownership of the land he cultivates, and made a mere tenant, a serf, a fixture of the soil dependent upon his Lord and Master; and for- bidden to stand up in the pride of his manhood, and theimage of his Maker, and show himself the peer of others tablished facts, and the labors of the 3 field lightened by the combined influ- ence of science and inventive genius. .. And yet, the science of agriculture is 3 in its infancy. I Agricultural schools, laboratories, , libraries, museums, experimental i farms, and Professors of agriculture, have but just commenced their work; yet the “ Rubicon has been passed,” the prejudices of the people overcome; and as no other profession or calling, presents so broad a field for thought and the utilization of the deductions of science, the advantages already gained are but drops, to be compared to the refreshing showers which are to follow. Science may never be able to explain the marvelous processes of growth and decay in the vegetable world, or fathom the unknown depths and mysteries of Geology, or enable the farmer to utilize all of the wonder- ful developiiients of Chemistry and Meteorology. It cannot be expected that the wisdom of man, will change the laws of nature, and prevent droughts and storms, heat and frosts, blight and mildew, or the depredation of insects; but when the laws which govern these, are fully known and un- derstood, their distructive influences will be greatly overcome and dimin- ished, by judicious management, and wise foresight. I fancy that some one may ask, if in social life, intellectual culture, and political influence. It was not until the compact, made 5 and signed in the cabin of the May- Flower,had been fully recognized as the fundamental principle of government upon this continent, and resulted in the enactment of just and equal laws, which guaranteed to the husbaiidman independent ownership of the soil, that agriculture began to burst the fetters which ages of oppression had been forging, and claim its recognition as one of the most honorable and im- portant avocations in life. The establishment of free institu- tions in this country, was not only a new era in the history of civil govern- ments, but in agriculture, and intel- lectual development. The farmer has been made not only a free man, and the owner of the soil he cultivates, but his own thinker, manager and ex- ecutor. Self interest and a laudable ambition to excel in farming, has in- spired him to seek knowledge, not only from science, observation and ex- perience, but from association and dis- cussions; and a free interchange of views upon practical questions relat- ing to all the diversified interests of agriculture. Free Schools, Agricultural Colleges, Fairs, Associations, and Farmers’ In- stitutes, have been established, and through their influence light and knowledge have been disseminated, and made to triumph over ignorance and inherited habits; and brain power over mere muscular force. There was a time and within the recollection of some of us, when the simplest rudi- ments of learning were considered to be all that were necessary for a far- mer. Well developed muscles, and a disposition to use them. was the only guaranty to success in agricultural pursuits. It required but little thought to spade the ground, plant, hoe, and gather the crops. In the labors of the field and the household the aid of all science, ex- cept Astronomy, was ignored: The Moon was consulted in seed—time and harvest, and the Stars, in the regula- tions of the nursery, and the farm- yard. These and other relics of the superstitious and dogmatic notions of past ages, are being dispelled by the light of truth and knowledge, the- science is so essential to agriculture, why is it that some of our most suc- l cessful farmers, received but a com- mon school education, and are there- fore uiiacquainted with abstruse sci- ences? The great thinkers of the world were not all graduates of col- leges. Science means knowledge, and is the same whether acquired in the col- lege, the log school-house, or on the farm. A fact established or a princi- ple demonstrated by an uneducated man, is none the less valuable or scien- tific. A scientific farmer is one who works with a knowledge of What he is doing, and if unaided by learning, he has by his own efforts acquired the knowledge and skill, which has put him upon the road to success, he is a benefactor of his race, and from him, even the learned Professor may ac- quire some of the most important and valuable scientific principles in farm- ing. Fortunate indeed, is the student who leaves school, with a cultivated taste for learning, and a correct knowl- edge of the mere principles which un- derlie the great truths of science, in comparison with the young man or woman, who, wearied with years of unremitting toil, has acquired but a superficial knowledge of many things. The one has provided a foundation upon which will rise a structure grand and durable. The other, having “ builded upon the sand,” has failed in the object sought, and however costly the struc- ture, it will be of but little value. Education, to be useful, must be practical, and thorough. Theories, that will not stand the most thorough tests, are worthless. The great question which most in- terests the American farmer to-day is, “How to raise crops at a profit, and not only keep up, but increase the fertility of the soil? ” This question is a practical one, and upon its proper solution, depends not only the future of agriculture in this country, but of the nation itself. The soil can and must be made to produce more. This should be understood, and every means within our control, employed to pro- duce this result. I verily believe that the average wheat crop of this State can be doubled, by proper cul- tivation,a systematic rotation of crops, and the" use of such means of fertiliza- tion as are within the reach of .every oretical illusions, supplanted by es- farmer. There are men within these walls, who have practically solved this problem in the cultivation of their own farms; but the principles upon which success has been reached are not generally understood. These Institutcs are for mutual im- provement, and the dissemination of useful knowledge; and if rightly con- ducted, will result in much good. Here we see men who have made farm- ing a success, ripe in years, yet cheer- ful, hale and. hearty, with their life long experience, fund of knowledge and well filled pockets, living exam- ples of the pleasant, healthful, enno- bling and profitable occupation of hus- bandry. Also men in middle life, who are battling with obstacles and toil; and absorbed in the accumula- tion of knowledge, and the business of the farm. They come fresh from the field, with their recent experi- ments and new discoveries. Here too, are Tyros in farming, who are testing theories, and demonstrating facts, col- lecting new ideas, and utilizing old ones. And there may be with us those who have not succeeded well in farming, yet not willing to give up, but determined to profit by experi- ence, and recover from adversities. There are also with us men of learn- ing, with their wisdom, their science, their theories, their demonstrations, and the results of experimental agri- culture; and it only remains for us to throw off that difference common to farmers, and engage in a full and free interchange of views upon the several interesting subjects that will"come be- fore us, to make this one of the most interesting and profitable gatherings of farmers ever held in this county. We are happy to see so many pres- ent, and in behalf of the citizens of Paw Paw and vicinity, I cordially welcome you to this intellectual treat, this farmers’ “love feast,” and invite you to accept the hospitalities of our people. TIIE Postmaster-General has very — wisely decided to adopt a new style of postage stamps, with a view_ of securing additional safeguards against the fraudulent practice of washing canceled stamps. We would be glad to see him go one step further and require all postage stamps to be print- ed at the seat of government, under the immediate supervision of the De- partment. This important business of engraving and printing the postage stamps should not be intrusted to the fidelity of a few subordinates in Ijlew York but should be done in Washing- ton, under a carefully-devised system of checks and guards against frauds. A LET it be recorded of the Senate of the United States of the _forty fi-fth Congress that the one petition which it received as a preposterous joke and" treated with utter contempt and out- rage was the petition of tens of thous- ands of the mothers, daughters and wives of the land; that the one peti- tion which they received and dropped with utter indifi'ei'ence was the petition against intemperance——the petition that seeks to lighten the heavy load of degradation, misery, murder that lies upon the land and most heavily upon the hearts, the lives, the homes of Women.—1l[a7'_i/ Clemmer, in the Independent. ‘ SENATOR Gordon, of Georgia, in a letter on Southern cotton mills, says: “The labor employed is white labor. It is a common error in the East to suppose that Southern mills employ negro help. The tastes and adapta- bility éf the negro unfit him for this work. Their fingers lack the deftness their brains the wakefulness necessary to a. mill operator. The department bosses are, as a rule, selected either ‘from Europe or the Eastern Sta .” .-. - ~.-x—,--- ~_‘_ a‘ VISITOR. THE GRANGE SCHOOLCRAFT. FEB. 1st, 1878. T:%2itretary’s éepaittment. J. T. COBB, ~ - - - SCHOOLCRAFT. Ofiicers and members of Subordinate_Gra.nges in corresponding with this office, W1ll please always give the Number of their Grange. BLAN KS. Blanks that are sent free from this office on application are : Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of Sub- ordinate Granges. Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of P0- mona G-ranges. Blank application for Granges. Blank applications for Membership in Pomona Granges. Blank Bonds of Secretary and Treasurer. Blank Election Reports of Sub. Granges. Blank Certificates of Election to County Convention. Blank Certificates of Representatives elected to the State Grange. Blanks for Consolidation of Granges. Blank Application for Certificate of Dimit. Blank Plaster Orders. Blank Certificate of Incorporation: organizing Pomona Onr Plaster Interest at Grandvillc. Having business at Grandville, with Messrs. Day & Taylor, on Monday, the 21st inst., I looked over their Plas- er mill, fixtures. and all the sur- roundings. As I had not been on the ground for several months, I found that important changes had been made, and improvements added of a sub- stantial character. Under a roof of flint rock four feet in thickness, twenty feet below the surface we found the miners at Work, drilling and blasting out Plaster rock from a bed twenty- two feet in thickness. But few men are now employed in the quarry, as {L large am’t of rock was taken out dur- ing the summer and fall. Three thou- sand tons of which has been ground and is now in the very bestqcondition for shipment. As much more is piled under sheds, convenient to the mill, and is well seasoned, and will be ground as fast as warehouse room is made by shipping that now ready for market. The plaster is taken to the surface on cars, running over an inclined track from the bottom of the quarry to the surface of the earth. Turn-tables and tracks at the bottom and top make it convenient to load the car in the mine, and unload it—under sheds through the center of which the track runs. This track being in line with the mill, the plaster when wanted is run into the mill from the sheds on E these same cars by horse power. The engine used in grinding, furn- ished the necessary power for draw- ing plaster out of the pit. The whole arrangement seems well calculated to get the plaster ready for shipment at the least possible cost. This is desirable at any time, but at present prices it is absolutely neces- sary that every facility be employed « for bringing the rock from its native bed to the point of shipment with the least possible expense. There are advantages in the great thickness of this plaster bed over those of less thickness that lie near the sur- face, that are apparent to any one visiting this mine. ' Other things being equal, one thing is certain, Day & Taylor now have such facilities for making land plaster that they can’t be drove out of the business by fair competition. Making land plaster in connection with the manu- facture of stucco is no doubt more profitable than when the business is run as by Day 62 Taylor, manufacturing land plaster exclusively for the use of O fiu,'m‘ers.i ‘ We think we have 'shown finore then once to the satisfaction of é”v.e’ry one who has given the matter i any attention, that the cliances of get- iting just what you want, and Just ; what you order-—-tluit is pure plaster, j of Day & Taylor, are far better than 3 of those manufacturers who select the Ibcst rock for stucco, and grind the ‘ balance with the refuse into land.pl:is- tcr. And this is a matter of quite as much importance to the farmers of Michigan outside the gate as to the 5 Patrons themselves. In factin all our I efforts to procure good goods at fair i prices, our brother faiuncrs have been land are interested in our success in i common with us. i The history of our contest with the 5 Plaster monopoly of the North-west will bear repeating to our brother f2fii'- mei's,when you ask them to join with you in ordering plaster of Day & Taylor. ‘~ VVhom the God’s destroy they first make mad.” We don’t know as any of the manu- facturers of plaster are mad, but it is safe to say, that since they combined four years ago, and fixed the price of plaster at $l.00 per ton, they have gone on perpetrating the follies of mad men, and apparently learning nothing by the lessons of experience, which in most cases are instructive and salu- tary. Already some of the parties to that wicked combination are driven to the wall, and the rest in their hostility to their old customers—the farmers, It is not pleasant to see business men persist in doing foolish things year after year, but in this matter I have the satisfaction of knowing that with these men of the old plaster associa- tion, in solemn council assembled, I labored faithfully for a day and a half in February, 1875, trying to satisfy them that their interest as well as that of the farmers of the State would be promoted by making a little conces- sion from the price they had fixed up- on, and by treating us as well as they did the few agents that had been stand- ing between them and the farmer.—- That labor was not wholly lost. It l'€SlIltéfl in having the position of the manufacturers so Well defined that the odium of having conspired together to extort an unreasonable price, and fix unreasonable and unusal conditions upon the sale of plaster was fastened ,1 upon them, and they have been forced ‘I to confess that their combination was Wicked and ruinous to themselves—a confession they would have been slow , to make if they had not been defeated I in their purpose by the Executive ‘ Committee of the Mich. State Grange, :aided by the firm of Day dz Taylor, 3 of Grandville. To combine against their own cus- tomers was a mistake——to try and buy up Patrons of the State last year, by offering plaster at one-half the combi— nation price, was another——and to per- sist in offering plaster this season at less than cost, after the proof of last year that it takes more than a dollar to buy a Granger is a. blunder that would almost seem to call for’ the ap- pointment of a guardian. These plas- ter men at the Rapids seem to profit but little by the lessons we have taught them, and are either determined on a‘ course of practical benevolence, by furnishing plaster to the farmers of Mich. at less than cost, or else thy intend to furnish, as they certainly did to a considerable extent last year, an inferior and stale article that must be got out of their way at some price. The Patrons of this State will buy what plaster they want of Day & Tay- lor; will pay $2.00 a ton for it-—get a pure article and call it cheap enough. But we must urge those who have warehouses to order at once what they want shipped. Day & Taylor, judg- ing the future by the past, prepared for early shipment, as last year at this 5 - -- _. TIYI753§§:1?1‘%3‘G’3.. seem intent on their own destruction. * VISI 7‘ 6 pg time they were loading several cars every day. As none has _yet been shipped from any of the mills, there will soon spring up a demand for cars, and some will be disappointed in not getting plzister as soon as expected. We hope this suggestion will be heed- ed, and all who can take care of it, or who have plaster houses will order it forwarded at once. The Visitor. The Visiroii as enlarged seems to give very general satisfaction, every reference to it so far received has been of approval. We have many promises of aid from Masters and Secretaries in increasing its circulation, and some very substantial evidences of their earnestness in the work. Several Granges have voted to supply every family with a copy, and pay from the treasury of the Grange. We are get- ting about fifty subscribes, including renewals each day. This would soon show a large list, but about two thirds of the subscriptions of last year ex- pired with the year, so that today, we had last year. Those interested in the VISITOR as now issued must see to it that old subscribers all renew, and that some new ones be obtained. the paper pay its own way, and as we I larged N 0. Our Executive Committee will never allow the paper to become a tax upon the State Grange treasury. low price without more paying sub- scribers. That we shall have them depends entirely on the cfl'orts of the the Order. noticed that their last paper had 33 written on the margin of’ the paper at the right of its date, and against “Your Subscription will expire with this N o.” This is kept standing, and every subscriber will in this way be notified when he gets the last N 0. he has paid for. We shall adhere inflexibly to the rule adopted, and stop the paper with the notice on the margin. The Grange VISITOR is a Grange Paper, and will be run on Grange principles for the good of the Order at cost.—- That it will aid in building up and strengthening the Order in the State, just in proportion to its circulation, we think will not be denied. Shall this agency ofthe Order be sustained? I‘ In answer to those who want to know what about their thirty cent subscrip- r tions, we would say : That thirty J cents paid for twelve numbers, and , the twelve numbers you will get, and I get much sooner than you expected. We invite those who sent thirty cents 5 in December, to send the additional 4 twenty cents, and they will be credited ; for payment of 3. Subscription for a. 5 full year. Farm Visits. On another page will be found a communication from a Committee sent by Oakwood Grange, N o. 333, to ex- amine and report upon the condition of certain farms belonging to some of its members. This plan would seem to have some merit in it, and if adopted, would soon improve the appearance of many 1 a farm in every neighborhood of the State. There are few farms but what will bear a few hours work picking up odds and ends, and putting things in their places, and there are few far- mers that wouldnot find. those few hours to do that work if they knewa Committee of their brother farmers were to-visit and inspect and report upon the condition of their premises in two weeks. This usage has a valu- able social adjunct when conducted on Grange principles. The Commit- tee should take their wives——not un- dertake to do to much work in an af- ternoon, and always stay to tea. The only objection that can be urged against this plan is the effect that a good supper might have upon the re- port of the Committee. “The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth” might not be reported But we are inclined to believe that Com- mittees of this kind if ‘judicious in tlnir criticisms may do agood work. We had written a part of an article about the good things we have seen, heard and tased at Grange meetings for the installation of Ofliccis; but the Foreman tells us—“ to much copy already. Ca.n’t take any 1nore—have a page already set that must lie over until next time.” Well, perhaps this is a good state of things—-at all events it might be worse. But brothers and sisters don’t be frightened, send on your ai-tices—l can wait. we have not as many subscribers as : This is an absolute necessity to make stated very explicitly in the first en- ‘ it cannot be furnished at the present ‘ Some old subscribers may not have Granges delinquent in reports from Secretaries for two or more quarters: Nos. 48, -51, Ill, 121, 1-16. 147, 156, 206, 223, 234, 244, 249, 251, 255, 302, 320, 324, I 330, 386, 409, 410, 422, 431, 465), 473, 477, 486, 493, 496, 498, 500, 501, 5012, -327, 5131, 542, 5:31, 5.32, 559, 567, 557, am, 604, 607, 3 612, 617, 620, 622. 'l‘() counEsi*oNi)EN'rs.' Alfred Parker.-—Wli:it Grange? S. Ale. Sec’y. Wihat Grange? A. Wilcox.—20 cents received with- out P. O. or name, or No. of Grange. S. W. Jennings-—\Vhat Grange ? friends of the Paper: and friends Of Golden Sheaves in Silver Baud. l BY GLEAXER. I I Give to the infant, tender care : ' To the child, wholesome foovl and beautiful I thoughts, To the youth, out-door exercise, pleasant tasks To middle age, encouragement and co-operation, if and good examples. I To declining years, siinpathy and gratitude, To old age, supporting care, and respectful dif- ference; Thus, our hands shall be helpful, Our thoughts shall grow bright, Our aims shall be noble, Our arms shall be strong, and our honor endur- ing, » Our hearts shall grow large, and Our tires will be beautiful. PONTIAC, MiCH., Jan. 21st, 1878. Bro. J. T. Cobb.- DEAR SIR.—I think that the VISITOR has been pretty well canvassed for in this vicinity for I can not get much of a list, but here is $1.50—-Geo. VV. Benja- mine, Pontiac, (new subscriber); VVm. H. Chafy, Four Towns, and A. J. Cros- by. Jr., (old Subscribers). The Oakland Pomona Grange, No. 5, met in Pontiac on Tuesday, Jan. 8th, and elected and installed the following: M.——Robcrt Garner, VVliite Lake. O.—Chas. K. Carpenter, Orion. L.——A. J. Crosby, Pontiac. S.—Wm. H. Chafy, Four Towns. Asst. S.—A. E. Green, Farinington. Chap.—Ira W. Donalson, Pontiac. 'I‘reas.—A. N. Goble, “ Secy.—,J. Jackson, Birmingham. G. K.——\Vm. Satterlee, “ P-')moiia.—,l\Ii's. C. K. Carpenter. Ceres.—Mrs. Win. Sat-terlee. Flora.—- “ G. M. Shattuck. Lady Asst. S.—Mi's. A. E. Green. ' The next meeting will be held at Farmington, February 5th. The meet- ings of this Pomona Grange have been held in different parts of the county, and great interest is manifested in all its labors, and most of our working members of the Subordinate Granges are joining, while a general good feeling prevails even among some who thought unfavorably of the organization at first. We think that the Pomona. Grange needs only to be fairly known to be Jllstly appreciated and po erly support- ed in it-s work. Fraterna ly yours, A. J. CROSBY, Sec’y. —N ever leave off a brass chain till you get a gold one. ’ “ -.'..«‘2 ......a:£ .-...-. , , 44 TI-IE GRANGE VISITOR. 5 éepartment. Patrons, There is Something of Import- l nnce to You in the Following. - CENTREVILLE. CENTREVILLE, Jan. 25th, 1878. I have endeavored to get as good l farm machinery as there is made, of all kinds used, and have spent con- siderable time in visiting and exam- ining the different makes and getting prices, and now believe that there is none better than such as I have con- tracted for. And if preferences and prejudices could be laid aside, and agreements made to use only a few of the best makes, prices could be materially reduced from what they now are; but so long as each person must have something different from his neighbor, just so long we must pay high prices and support a lot of ‘ middlemen and traveling agents, that prey upon farmers, and look upon them as lawful objects to be plunder- ed and swindled, and who care no more for them than a plaster dealer, who said, “All he Wanted was their money, he did not care a damn for them. Therefore he had just as leave sell poor, worthless stuff, it he could succeed in putting it off on the dum-heads who liked to be humbug- ed, and could be bought for twenty- five cents any time.” Shall we not try to get out of the mud and mire of ignoiance, and not spend our life time uselessly? I would call the attention of all wanting wagons the coming season, to the one made at Buchanan, which Ifurnish and have sent out exten- sively during the two years past, as being unsurpassed in durability by any other; and is recommended as the best by farmers acquainted with the South Bend, Niles, and other makes of wagons. I can furnish annealed fence wire from 94 50 to $6.00 per cWt., accord- ing to size of wire, at any quantity desired. Steel and iron drag teeth at wholesale rates. Nails have advanc- ed to $2.75 for 10’s and larger; small- er sizes in proportionate price, in wholesale quantites. All kinds of building materials are firm, and prices are advancing; lumber will probably be higher in the spring, and all who are in need had better get it soon. I have the best hand corn-sheller made. It separates the corn from the cobs, cleans it and puts it in a bag ready for the mill or market, and is now furnished for $10.00 on car here. I can fill orders for the Kala- mazoo Diamond Iron plows, Jones- ville, Battle Creek, Mishawaka, Union City, and South Bend Co.s’ chilled plows. Oliver don’t want to sell his plows to Patrons, and I hope none will want them, as I have plenty of others equally as good, if not better. Let us leave all manufacturers alone who refuse to sell us direct, and let their agents have a monopoly of their tools, and don’t deprive the agents of their use. My stock of Boots, Shoes, and Gro- ceries 18 still ample to fill all orders, and my arrangements are such that Icau furnish anything wanted in that line. In ordering matches, remember that 14.400 are a gross. Thus 144 boxes of 100 each, or 200 each, or 48 boxes of 300 each are called a gross. They generally come two or three gross in a case. Parlor matches are sold by the dozen packages, 100 In a box. I keep Richardson’s match- es on hand ; there is no better or cheaper, considering the quality and convenience of the" boxes they are put up in. , Don't forget to order your Plaster soon, so that it will be on hand when wanted ; and remember to sow it early, so as to receive the full benefit of it next season. An observing farmer of Kalamazoo informs me that he gen- erally sows in February, and he is satisfied that he gets better returns than if it was applied later in warm weather. Clover and grass seeds are at bot- tom prices, and all in need of them should procure a good supply and use freely, for a good crop of grrss is worth more than a poor crop of grain, and the land is not ex- hausted. I can furnish Michigan test Oil, in- spected, on car here, for 290 a gallon by the barrel, the same as at Detroit, if money is sent with orders, not otherwise. I wish all correspondence to be in sealed envelopes, as postal cards are frequently lost or miscarried; besides, they give public notice of business = transactions and are very inconven- ient for me to file away when they contain orders to be preserved. Report of the Farm Visiting Committee. NUMBER ONn,—l877. T 0 Oakwood Grange, N 0. -‘ 33 .' The committee to visit farms hav ing performed the duty assigned to it, offer the following report: We first visited the farm of our Worthy Overseer, Bro. James Phillips, whom we found at home, ready to give us a cordial welcome. This farm, containing eighty acres of improved land and a wood lot of twenty acres, lies in the southwest part of the town- ship of Sturgis, is nearly level. and as handsome a piece of land as can be found in St. Joseph county. Soil a heavy sand-loom formerly covered with Oak timber, constituting what is known in Michigan as Oak openings. Wheat and corn are the principal crops raised for market. A small apple orchard usually gives fruit enough for family use, but was bar- ren this year. But little stock is kept on the place. We saw some very fine pigs, a cross between Chester's and Poland’s. The farm buildings are in good condition, as are the fences also. The implements of husbandry were all housed. A well-filled corn- crib bore testimony to the general thrift, and everything we saw denot- ed successful farming. There are 27 acres of wheat on the ground, of the Fultze variety, sowed from 13th to 15th of September. Ten acres of this is on stubble, eight on clover sod and nine fallow. Rotation, corn, wheat and clover, which always succeeds wheat, unless on clover sod, when it is followed by corn and summer fal- lowed for wheat again. Sometimes two crops of wheat in succession are taken from the same ground, and seeded to clover with the second one. All the manure made is put on the ground intended for corn—— drawn out after harvest, and plowed under in the followingspring. Bro. Phillips informed the commit- tee that his greatest yield of wheat in the last five years, was 32 bushels per acre, the smallest, 17% bushels thel last harvest. His average yield of corn was -10 bushels to the acre. The committee is of the opinion that this brother might improve the appearance of the grounds about his house. A well kept lawn‘ with a few ornamental trees and shrubs inter- spersed, adds much to the beauty and attractiveness of the farm, and gives it a more home-like appearance. The next farm visited was that_of Bro. John Burger, about one mile further west on the same road. The 1 soil and situation are similar with the exception that the highway runs through it, between the house and barn. This farm contains 100 acres, 90 of which are under cultivation VVheat is the principal crop raised for market, but considerable crops of corn, potatoes, and white beans are raised. Bro. Burger has on the farm 14 head of cattle, 3 horses, and 30 hogs. Most of the manure is put on the Wheat ground after plowing and is harroweyd over before sowing. No regular system of rotation is practic- ed Corn is generally followed by potatoes and beans, alter which wheat is sown the same year. Some wheat is grown on clover sod; often two crops in succession. with no apparent diminution in the yield. Clover Seed is used freely. There are 40 acres of this fall's seeding of wheat. We saw one piece of Clawson on clover sod from which a crop of hay was cut, which is very fine. It was sown broadcast by hand and worked in with the new spring-tooth barrow The brother stated that be attained better results from the fields on which manure was used, than where crops are grown on clover sod without ma- nure. The committee remarked the clean appearance of the cornfield; There were few weeds to be seen, and it was evident that the proporietor does not believe in letting them grow. VVe found buildings and fences in good order generally, and farm im- plements under shelter. The corn, which is of excellent quality was be- ing gathered into the crib. Appear- ances denote the successful farmer, but there was little evidence of good taste in the appearance of the grounds about the house. After a pleasant chat with Brother ‘ and Sister Burger, and a walk over a part of the farm, we proceeded to the hospitable mansion of our worthy Master, Bro. C. Y. Runyan, and were cordially welcomed by him and his interesting family. Here we put our horses in the stable and made our- selves at home until late in the even- ing-—our visit being prolonged by one of those drizzling rains for which Oc- tober is remarkable. But we had a good time and did ample justice to the bountiful repast which Sister R. had provided and for which her house is particularly noted. Bro. Runyau’s farm which lies on both sides of the Chicago road, half way between Oakwood Hall and White Pigeon village, contains 160:‘ acres, 120 of which is improved up- land, the balance being marsh and woodland. Wheat is the principal crop raised for market; what corn is grown being mostly fed on the farm. A few cows with some young cattle and sheep are kept, and a few hogs also. The iuanure is put on the ground where corn had been grown the previous year. and the land then su1n_r.n’€i" fallowed for wheat. Usually two crops of wheat are grown before seeding to clover. Bro. R. has no reggulal‘ system of rotation. Wheat follows corn, and sometimes this is reversed, and corn follows wheat. The average yield of wheat was stat- ed to be about 20 bushels to the acre. In 1874 a 20 acre field gave 35 bush- els to the acre, -The yield of corn this year was 80 bushels of ears to the acre. This farm is in exceptionally good condition. The highway is bounded on each side by a hedge of Osage Orange which is kept neatly trimmed. Unlike many others, the road is full legal width and has a row of shade trees on each side. On one side, be- tween the hedge and shade trees, the ground has been graded for a side- walk whiohis all that could be ex- pected in a country place. This fact is here noted with the hope that other farmers may take the hint and follow the example. The whole farm is arranged with fields of convenient size with Osage hedge or good rail fence. On the west side of the orch- ard the hedge is allowed to grow up for a windbreak, after having had several trimmings to induce a thick bottom growth. Some evergreens have also been planted about the house, Which, as they become large will prove a good shelter. _ Bro. R.’s family appreciate a good garden of fruits and vegetables, and the daugh- ters show a commendable zeal in the cultivation of ‘flowers. Sister R.’s house-plants show the good attention they have, and form an attractive fea- ture of the house. The comniittee finds only one thing deserving of much criticism. The barns border on the highway and al- most necessitate a cluttered appear- ance of the roadside in front; but as they were built at an early day, we cannot charge the present owner with the responsibility of the arrang- ment. lVe "cannot, however, too strongly condemn the practice of set- ting farm buildings close up to the roadside and making :1 barn-yard of the highway as many farmers do, al- though Bro. R is not chargeable with this latter sin. The committee was highly gratified with the general good appearance of the lai'msvisited, and close by wisli- ing their owners many years of pros- perity. Gnoncn N. RICH, ltuneirr Il[l.L, lli-;.\'ni' Coi.i.ixs, (Jom.7m'ttec."'l garrcaparzdentgt. VICTOR GRANGE, No. 317, ]_ January 4th, lS78. J W07-thy Secretary Cobb .' Enclosed with this, find the Secretary’s report for the past quarter together with dues t'or same; also my subscription to the VISITOR. We are very much pleased with the improved condition of the pa- per, and shall try to increase its circula- tion in our Grange. \Ve feel that it should be sustained, and made the me- dium of communication upon all sub- jects that interest the Grangers of Mich. Our Grange is moving on quietly, and receipts up all of its regular meet- ings. We have on our list thirty-five good regular members, and have got our organization “incorporated.” Our number is small, never have had, all told a large Grange, but now with the delinquent ones all weeded out; we ' have a very good working body. Our Grange is in favor of reducing the initiation fees to $1.00 and $3.00, and think We shall increase our numbers it’ the amendment is ratified. The animal election of our Grange occurred Dec. 29lh,electing Bro.Wm. S. Parke, its Master. The question box is used to advantage in our Grange. We have discussed some of the following questions: “ Is the Grange asuccess ?” “Which affords the most profit to the farmer to raise sheep or swine?” “How much wheat should be sown per acre, and when, how and what va- riety? “ VVill wheat turn to chess?” Our Grange meets in the Town Hall, as we do not have any hall of our own. We have faith that the Order is accom- plishingavast amount ofgood, and hope that all that are engaged in the honor- able business of agriculture will join our Order, and give us a helping hand. J. C. BRUNSON, Late Sec’_v. EDEN, Micli., Jan. 7, 1878. Mr. J. T. Cobb, Sec. Mich. S. G. .- WORTHY BRO.—At the last annual meeting of the Ingham County Grange, No. 14, R. E. Trowbridge was elected Master, P. O. Lansing; O. F. Miller. Secretary, P. 0. Eden. Frat‘ernally, O. F. IVIILLER, Se-c'y. OAKLAND POMONA GRANGE, No. 5. P. of. H. will hold their next meeting in Grange Hall at Farmington, on Tues- .day, Feb. 5th, at 1 o’clock. All 4th de- gree members are solicited to attend. JOSEPH J ACKSON, Sec’y. l . 2 . V-;.-.2»:-. Far across the western prairie, Toward the glorious setting sun, Where the red man roams in freedom . And his treacherous. deeds are done They have left our gallant Custer, Him, we followed long ago, When our country was in danger From foul treason black and low. Years have passed, but we remember VVell, the charges then we made, And the sacrifices called for In our Michigan brigade. None were braver, none were truer In that long list of the brave Than Ferry, VVeber, Granger, Brewer, * Who died their flag to save. And a host of other worthies From the ranks of the brigade, Passed with them across the river Where their banners never fade ; And their geiicral’s gone to meet them 3 Standing on the other shore, We shall hear his voice comrnainling, See his tall form nevermore. But when memory shall wander Backward to our old Headquarters We’ll remember Brandy Station, Gettysburgh, and Falling Waters, And wherever there shall muster Wolverines in army blue They will drop a tear for Custer Our boy General. tried and true. Grand Rapids, J an. 20. H. H. Roonns. Benefits of the Grange to Fa1'mc1'.s’ lVives. It has been said that the originators of the Grange, “ builded better than they knew,” when they laid the foundation of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. They surely builded much better than they knew, when they make farmers’ wives, colaborers and equals in the work of the Order with their Husbands, Fathers and Brothers; therebyplacing the staff in their own hands, that shall enable them to rise to a higher and more usefullife. I have seen it stated that the percentage of insanity is greater among farmers’ wives than among the females of any other calling in life. If this is true; why is it so? In years gone by the wives of a majority of our far- mers have led a sort of tread-mill life that has benumbed their intillectual fac- ulties, and made them too much mere machines whose aims and objects have been too groveling and mercenary. It takes a good degree of intelligence, prudence, forethought, and industry to make a successful house-keeper; but if our thoughts never rise above the daily routine of preparing three meals per day, and the thousand other duties un- avoidable in a well ordered home, we loose half the enjoyments of this life, and cheat ourselves and the world around us of our rights. The Grange meetings are just what we need. to break up this endless chain of routine that has been so long crush- ing the 'life and spirits of our sisters, making our calling one to be looked down upon as a sort of degradation. Just here let me relate some incidents told me by persons present at the time , A young Miss was on 3 her way to attend a Sabbath School pic- ‘ they took place. nic held at one of oui' beautiful lakes. She was at the time riding in a farmers wagon, and as she came opposite a man following his plow, she exclaimed 1 Oh, what a degraded life to be obliged to fol- low a plow in this broiling sun all day. Why it is dreadful to think of. Let us hope that upon that subject at least. Age will bring more wisdom. Another incident was related me as transpiring in the otiice ofone ofour city physicians. A farmer’s daughter was asked if she had attended the Grange pic-nic held that day at the fair ground. She answered. Oh no! no one that amounts to any thing goes to a Grange pic me; no one but farmers; and the Grangers are the most dowdyish look- ing set you ever saw. She was born and raised on a farm; never spent six months of her life any where else. Now I ask you, was she properly taught at home, to look with such scorn on the profession that fur- nished her daily bread. I relate these incidents to show the importance of our educating our sons and daughters to think our life work is truly ennobliug, and if we only “act well our part there all the honor lies.” That the Grange is calculated to be of untold benefltin this work, is not to be gainsayed--but will it woqpplish this work if we are lax in our-gttendance upon its meeting? if we THE GRANGE i7Ils1ToR.” l i take no partiii making it what it should 5 be, viz: an educator upon all subjects 1‘ that are of interest to farnicrs. VVe can easily so arrange our house- . hold duties that Grange day shall be one , of less labor than some of the others, so as not to have excessive fatigue for an ‘ excuse to remain at home, and we shall find the more regularly we attend, the more interest and confidence we have in .3 its final siiccess. The Grange is just what its members make it, and how , long would it take for it to prove a grand , failure if all its members only attended (ijts meetings often enough to pay their ues. v \Ve can attain success in no undertak- l ing it‘ we do not bring into it zeal, faith- ; fuliiess, and perseverance. \Vlicn you 4 ask after the mother of a household l and are told--she never goes anywhere, ,' _vou may be sure (if by chance you see 2 her) to find her care-worn, aged beyond 1 heryears, and inclined to low spirits; 1 while on the other hand if a mother oc- ,l casionally drops her cares with her , every day garments, dons her best ap- . pare], and goes forth to meet the world, , she will look more upon the bright side ; of life, have better general health, and , will make a more cheerful home. If a farmers’ wives would alltry this pan- acea, statistics would show {I decided , falling on‘ of the percentage of insaiiity , in the nextdecadc. \Ve need the fric- » tion of mind with niind to call out our 2 best effort, both socially and mentally. J 'lhen let me urge upon you my sisters, ' to cling to the privileges and benefits of our Order, as to blessings only measured by our capacity to enjoy. \V. S. Take (‘are of Yoursclves. homes has a household department, and and essential hints, and helps. practical talk, it inspires new ideas, and calls our attention to a common-sense way of doing things. Many house- keepers go on in the same old way year after year in the same routine, without ever thinking of any mode of escape. But when some one shows us how ab- surd it is——liow unhealthy certain in- digestible articles of food are we have cooked so many times, we are willing to change our course. How many women, who are trving to make the most of life, have come to the front and are writing out their experi- ences in managing the affairs of every- day life. They have learned an easier and better way, and their hearts go out in sympathy for others, who have not yet learned their lesson. Too many are wearing themselves out unnecessarily, and unselfishly, without any. real sense of the beauty and glory of life. Much that we do is called self- sacrifice, when in fact itis not, only do- ing what might better be left undone. It is all right to lay aside our selfish- ness, and do those things that will bene- fit our family or our neighbors; but it is all wrong to wear ourselves out pre- maturely and without the least neces- sity ot' so doing. The secret of good living is to take care of ourselves. Doiilt go from one piece of work to another until, as you $3.)’ and 1691. you are ready to “drop down.” VVhen you have one of those , terrible liead—aclies, to which you are i Sul‘J'e‘-'53 don't 3'0 into the kitchen and ‘ make mdlgestible pies, or dough-nuts, or puddings, just because you think the dinner table will seem incomplete with- out them. If you are having slight ohms, don't try to keep up and do .. lit- tle more. “An ounce of pound of cure.” My nearest neighbor and most inti- mate friend has been one of the son; ghdt wanted to do a “little more.” She had been having chills, and yet insisted on domg part of the ironing with her d3-ugllliel‘. One disease set in after an- other, and to-day she is on her dying bed, with that terrible disease, coiisump- tion; all because she did not take care of herself in time. If some member of the family is sick-:, and you have been kept awake night after night watching over them, while they are comfortable and sleeping, make that .’y0uI' rest-time instead of trying to see how much work you can do. Lie down on the lounge and take a nap, or, If you cannot sleep, close your eyes to allaround you, and be determined not -to think of, or see, the work you ima- 81116 ought to be done.- It is wrong to violate the laws of nature, and when we prevention is worth 21 Almost every paper that comes to our ‘' it is very beneficial to most liousekeep- , crs, especially when it contains useful ; do violate them, we pay forit with more or less suffering. I have heard more than one woman ‘ say, “I cannot trust my baking to hired . help, my husband is so particular about his food.” There may come a time when your hands will cease to perform their work, and your particular lins- band will be obliged to do without your society and elaborate cooking in his liouie. Don't make such a drudgeof your- self that your husband and children will be ashamed of you because you neglect to keep up your care of a tidy appear- ance in your home circle, or that you have not time to improve your mind, and when your children come to you for inforinatioii upon subjects with which you ought to be familiar, say “I don’t know,” and as they turn from you with a disappointed look, think to themselves, “Mother don't know much.” . Betsey would have been. for him, but lie says he has an iron constitution. ' Com. on Credentials. Mrs. M. called; warn’t she a little scared to have to walk up to that table in front—guess Seems to me i I hear that little mallet come down, so There is no necessity of laying aside ; books and music, or any other accom- plishment iii which you took so much = delight, and which cost you so much time and inone_y. They would add to the pleasaiitiiess of your home, and your children would not be so ready to go out to spend their evenings in question- able society and cause you so many lieartaclies. Once upon a timeamother placed her Latin book over her work table, and while her hands were busy with work she studied the lessons in it in order that she might keep in advance of her boys in assisting them in their prepara- tion for college, and in after years she was rewarded and her heart cheered as she beheld them honored members of so- ciety, and occupying positions of trust. \Ve may not all study Latin, but we can read and study other interesting matter so as to impart knowledge to those un- dcr our care, instead of cooking so much rich food, trying every new recipe we ‘ come across, or new kind of pickle to \Vhen this column assumes a sort of‘ Take care of yourself in time. ‘ pervert the appetite, destroy our diges- tion and dwarf our minds. \’Ve can gather gems of thought wherewith to build up a noble, pure life, and gain strength to do our duty to others. \Ve can strew flowers of good deeds all along our pathway. and the world will be the better for our having lived in it. Be good to yourselves and you will be good to others. Take care of the body, the temple of the soul. MYRA. Betsey Goes to Lansing to Attend the State Grange. l\Iond-ay, Dec. 10th.—Had to drive to hall, six miles out of my way, to get books and papers; hunt half an hour, and finally find them in my pocket.— Reach the cars at 10:15 ; take fast train, that goes through without stopping, (except at stations, cross-roads and wood piles). Gets three kinds of ride for half fare: up and down,sidewiseand straight ahead; reach Lansing 2:30 p. m., and take ’buss for Lansing House. Being of same family, get rooms ad- joining M. M., (opening together); wash, brush, make ourself pretty and go to supper. 7 p. m.—Go out to walk, and see the city by gas light; take the gee side of the street; find every other door a drug store, the rest jewlery, interspersed with two shoe stores. Cross over to the haw side and found more drug stores, with two and one~liult' dry goods; called at one of the dry goods stores to makea small purcliase. Left D. and M. out- side, and one of the proprietors, tliink— ing they would hear watching, walks out; found M. sitting on a dry goods box, telling a long yarn, and trying to freeze Mr. Drygoods man out. It must be very sickly in Lansing; would advise sending none but healthy men to our Legislature on account of the drug stores. Back to the hotel; report and go to bed, but not to sleep ! Oh no; too much strain on the nervous system. Tuesday Moi'niug,- -65- A.M.——“Break- fast! ” Come aint you ever going to get ready '3 VVish they would go away; this having to comb hair and get into cne’s best clothes before breakfast—how can I endure it a whole week. VVell—feel better, guess that cup of coffee and weak cow's milk is bracing. Now for the Hall; wonder if I shall shake and forget the pass-word. In- side the gate. Prayer by Rev. Salmon Steele. Hark! Oh hear, so sweet and clear, the choir,——Kelsey’s-—frorn Cal- houn Unuuty. Kelsey, nice looking whiskered and genteel ; Mrs. K., sweet: —Smith and wife—all good. ’ Master J. J. Woodman ‘opened the Grange just as nice as ever; by a _cold if you want to know the rest, take the GRAXGE Visrron, you can learn more than even Betsey knows. Worth}; lS'£.sters, I greet you and pro- pose to lend my countenance to this department on these grounds. Sisters will say: “If that Mrs. T. T. M. can contribute anybody can.” Don’t you think Brother Cobb a little partial to the Sisters, to give them so much space in the VISITOR‘? \Vish he would give the Husbandman just the same; would we not look innocent while they were reading our columns first 2’ If this overflow of wisdom isnlt wast- ed, I may tell you of Solomon’s Temple Grange, for we have concentrated wis- dom as well as that which overflows and is wasted. ’I‘. T. I\I., \Vhich means: Talk too much. B120. CoBn.—-If you think this article. will wash, and I find it hanging on your line, I will try again, Bi«ri'sic\'. DEXTER GRANGE, No. 351, up I)r:.\"rER, Jan. lstli, 1878. n Wort/iy Bro. J. T. Cobb: i I noticed an article in the (.w‘i'-migc Visrron, that the L adies’ department would be discontinued ifthe Sisters were not more interested. I fully appreciate your kindness in giving the Sisters an opportunity to council and advise with each other as in their home circle, but have excused myself from the fact that I had rather read what some one else lias written than write myself. If the few words I shall say in relation to sus- taining the department assigned us, are worth publishing please do so. Now we often ask each other what can we do to increase the interest of the Grange. As one of the principles of the Order is progress, we must not sit down with our hands folded, waiting for some one that can write better, or say something a lit- tle smoother. VVe may be disappointed. ’l‘lierefore, I think we ought not to hesitate, but be more dilligent, and not wait one for the other so much, and then the Grange would be more interest- ing, and have a fuller attendance. It opens up a large field for the iniprovc- ment of the Sisters, and now it is for them to say if they will be benefitted or not. Formerly, the farmers were some what isolated and did notliavc the present privilege of the Grange; we ought to feel thankful for its 0I‘ga.l1lZ.'-l- tion, as now we can enjoy rich, social, intellectual feasts if we but will. Now Sisters let us try and do what we can for the Ladies’ Department. Fraternally, Mus. M. D. l3iGE GRANGE, No. 183, January lltli, 1878. Wo'/'t/i,i/ iS'ccrctar3/ Cobb .- , has taken the fifth . J ' Laws of Mich has been elected in a lawful way and degree. Therefore, no member is competent to install ’till they have taken the fifth degree or is a _ , lawful member of the State Grange. Section 1, of Article III of the By- igan State Grange says ; who the members of the State Grange ‘ shall Enclosed you will find report and‘ dues for the quarter ending December 31st, 1877, Our laying the foundation branch of this Order. Grange is slowly for a permanent and a business gives great encouragement to both offi- cers and members. Master \Voodman wisely suggests the use of the pruning ' ead branches, but to be sure that they are dead first. have used the knife but sparingly, ing that we might injure other branch- es although now apparently useles, yet may, under the healthful influence of a bright sun and spri into newness of life, and with proper care by the true Hiisbandman, bear For the present we place such on the suspended list. Our ears are ever open to hear their signal at the door, where they are sure to meet a kind and fraternal greeting, for there are many that are unquestion- ably true Patrons wlio have only ab- sented themselves for some real or im- aginary wrong, that is best righted with f'ull membership within our halls. But outward signs of decay ai'e not always sure of ruin and loss of a Brother, for d core, and these will, with judicious treatment, sooner or later slough off, and we then have a good and worthy member, cutis seria dcrmz'¢c. The hopes of Patrons are brightening, and our meetings are worked with a spirit of co-operation, which is one of the fundamental principles of our insti- tution. topics of farm management to that ex- tent that we hope to, but are improv- ing in that direction and hope to see the day when, by our efforts, farmers will see the iinportaiice of using more brain and less muscle. ()ur Lecturer, Bro. VVilliam Bryan, little spots of decay V often addresses us on various subjects of Because the Grange has not accoin- , plislicd ml that we desired, shall we ‘ abandon it to the tender mercies of its E enemies‘? How deeply our brothers and ,= sisters feel the loss who are prevented ; by sickness from attending our meet- inrrs. her one I will do all that I can that our Grange may live and prosper, and ‘ then if it must die. I will not join its enemies to treat its memory with de- rision and scorn; but, as I cherish the -‘ memory of the beloved dead, so will I cherish the memory of our Grange. G. R. Receipt for Corn Bread. One pint of sweet milk; one of sour; interest to Patrons generally—Serfdom, Finance, and our School System, being some of his favorite topics. Patrons every where should speak and act promptly, and for a purpose. VVe .should not be hampered on questions - of so much interest to us. one quart of corn meal; one pint ofl ginger and salt I use Graham flour or fine middlings, [ sometimes. Bake an hour or so. same is good steamed an hour and then fl baked till a light brown. “Raised Corn Bread.”—One quart of Fifth Degree mem corn meal; one pint of fine middlings; J install the Officers tablespoonful of salt; cup of molasses. VVet a little thicker than Johnny Cake with sweet milk or water, then add half a bowlful of salt risz'n_(/ emtings: stir thoroughly and set to rise. VVhen raised enough, which will be when it cracks open after it raises alittle, bake two or three hours. '1‘. T. M. ONE of Webster’s stories Peter Har- vey used often to repeat thus: “Web- ster and Jeremiah Mason were driving the circuit together in the latter’s chaise. It was Sunday; they thought they would make a call on the Shak- ers: this was at Enfield. Friend Dyer told Mr. Mason, ‘We cannot admit thee on the Sabbath.’ Mason used earnest emphasis in his speech at that early day. The co1o_quy failed to get them in, Mason angrily said, ‘:Do you know who I am ?’ ‘ Nay,’ said the Shaker, ‘but judging from thy size I append the names of ten subscrib- ers for the VISITOR; I feel very much pleased with the change, and think it must meet with general approval; al- though the sheet is yet small, the truth it contains is mighty and must prevail. Fraternally yours, M. H. }IILLYARD, Sec’y. CHURCH CORNERS, HILLsn.i.Li«: Co., 7 January 20th, 1878. I Bro. J. T. C bb .- Isee by the Visiiroit of Jan. 15th, that the VVortliy Master of the State Grange says, he was requested to ex- plain the following rule in the Digest, and defines who may install officers in Subordinate and Pomona Granges : “Any member of the State Grange, or ber‘.is competent to of a Subordinate or 5 County Grange.” I ! Brother VVoodman explains the above rule by saying: “Any Master or Past Master of‘ a Subordinate Grange, or Fifth Degree member, is competent to install the oflicers of a Subordinate Grange.” And then he takes the same rule and applies it to County Granges, and says: “A voting member or officer of a. State Grange in good standing, may install the officers of a County or District Grange.” ’ Now I believe the explanation in ref- erence to Pomona Granges is correct, but the reference to Subordinate Grang- es is not correct: VVoodman can take the rule and say that a Master of a Subordinate Grange that has never taken the Fifth Degree is competent to install, then take the same rule, and say they must be a vot- ing member or officer ofa State Grange who has taken the fifth degree, to in- stall in a Pomona Grange. Now I believe and claim, no person I do not see how Bro. , also election report for the. ; year A. D. 1878. says the Grange is 3’ _ Our meetings are * ,~ cers, I am inclined to tlii i I i . l I i I i i l E consist of. Fraternally yours, J AS. HL'Ml’I{RE\', Sec. \VOODBRI1)GE GRANGE, No. 183, January 16th; 1878. Brother J. T. Cobb.- Daxn Sm AND BRO.-—I presume that you have expected that \Voodbrid;,re Grange, No. 173, would ere this, have surrendered its charter and become a dead Grange. But if you had been with us at our last meeting, Jan. 16th, on the occasion of the installation of our offi- nk that you would have changed that opinion and concluded that we were determined to l. J “re i again become (as in days of yore,) a fea,._ i prosperous, active, living Grange. After the usual routine of business had been concluded, the ofiicers elect were duly installed, and then we had ng Showers; Spring ; a recess for a half hour or more for social and friendly converse, and last but not least, to partake of the rich and bounti- ful repast prepared by the skilled hands of the Sisters of VVoodbridge Grange, as they well know how to do upon occa- sions of this kind. Being again called to order by worthy Master Hewit, (who seems to be “the right man in the right place,”) Brother Joel B. Norris, our representative to the State Grange, gave us a highly interest- ing account ofits doings at its last ses- ,‘ sion, and aftera few short, pithy speech- i i \Ve do not have discussions on 1 I i l ‘ es from some of the members on the Good of the Order, and taking some subscriptions for the VISITOR by the Secretary, we adjourned at a late hour, all feeling, (I have no doubt), that the future success of 183 is an assured fact. Fraternally yours, NATHAN ALvoitD. HAs'ri:\'Gs, Jan. 19th, 1878. Bro. J. T. Cobb: SIR.—I want to send a few lines to you, as you probably do not hear often from Hastings Grange, N o. 50, except on business matters. After my return from Lansing I determined to spare no effort that I was capable of making, to raise Hastings Grange out of the ruts into which she had carelessly run. For all the time that we have been a Grange we have occupied a hall owned by one of our charter members, he being a law- yer and owning a a farm just outside of the city. This hall we occupied jointly with the Knights of Pythias. The c9n- sequence was, the rent and making such improvements in the hall as the owner wished, absorbed all our money and kept us in debt, and about the only question of debate at our meetings was the question of finance——not of national, but local. It was how to get out of debt and keep out. This disgusted and dis- heartened many of our members, and they became dormant to such an extent that we barely had members enough to fill the chairs, and ‘our case began to look desperate; so much so that some of the faithful ones began to think that we would have to submit to the igno- miiiy of surrendering our charter. Under these discouraging circum- stances we advertised for our annual election. The first attempt was a fail- ure, for the want of numbers; the sec- ond was more siiccessful— we elected our oflicers, and from that time we commenced business in earnest. In the first place we settled up our hall rent, and divided _our property with the Knights. Last summer we formed 9. Co-opera- tive Association here, and purchased property on which was a store. In the upper part of the store was room for a hall, and thither we moved our effects, and last Thursday we met there——men and women—and washed and scrubbed and whitewashed and papered, and ren- ovated generally, and when night came we had it looking quite home-like, and last Friday we went there again and installed our officers, after which we enjoyed a bounteous feast. A goodly number were present, and all seemed to enjoy themselves. Many paid up their dues and renewed their vows, and every thing passed off harmoniously. Now I want to tell you the course that we adopted to draw back‘ our dor- mant members. it was the same as recommended by the Coummittee on Dormant Granges at the State Grange. 8 THE GRANGE VISITOR. We invited all who had ever been mem- bers of our Grange and offered to take them back into full fellowship if they would pay two quarters back dues. Quite anuinber availed themselves of the opportunity then and there, and many more will at our next meeting. So you can write Hastings Grange, No. 50, down in the next VISITOR as one of the live Granges. What we have done for the VISITOR you will soon be informed by our Secretary. Believe me, yours fraternally, PETER CRAMER. C()l.l)\VA'1'l-IR GRA.\'Gi:, No. 137,) January 21st, 1878. I Worthy St crclary .- On the evening of January 15th, 1878, occurred the installation of officers of No. 137. The services were conducted by Bro. Joseph, of Quincy Grange. The attendance was very large; the hall and also the dwelling of Bro. C. H. VVil- lianis (at which our hall is located) was filled to their utmost capacity. The services were impressive and were con- ducted in good order. I think I may safely say that this was the most inter- esting meeting ever held by Goldwater Grange. I think we are starting off this year under more flattering prospects than at any previous time. The Mas- ter’s address I will send you in a few days. \Ve have a Plasterhouse nearly com- pleted, and shall want a large quantity. There is a good prospect now of or- ganizing a Pomona Grange in this Co. Please to send a blank application for it. Fraternall yours, E. W. TREAT, Sec. TIIE BEAPER, DEATH. January 5th. 1878, Bro. Richard E. Wildey, aged 72 years. Bunker Hill Grange, No. 262, in the death of this Brother, ripe in years and rich in faith, has lost a. valued member. Cclestia Keith, 21 charter member of Chesa.n- ing Grange, No. 464, wife of our worthy Chap lain, M. B. Keith, died Jan. 10th, 1878, at the residence of her Parents in Hillsdale County, aged 28 years. Fraternally, O. W. DAMON, Sec’y. PRICEWIIST of SUPPLIES Kept in the oflicc of the Secretary of the MICHIGAN S TA T E GRANGE, And sent out Post Paid, on Receipt of Cash Or- der, m:er the seal of a Subordinate Grange, «ind the signature of its Master or Secretary. Ballot Boxes, (hard wood,) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1 2.‘) Porcelain Ballot Marbles, per hundred,.. . 60 Blank Book, ledger ruled, for Secretary to keep accounts with members-, . . . . . . . . .. 1 00 Blank Record Books, (Express paid), . . . . . 1 00 Order Book, containing 100 Orders on the Treasurer. with stub, well bound, . . . . . . 50 Receipt Book, containing 100 Receipts from Treasurer to Secretary, with stub, well bound, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Blank Receipts for dues, per 100, bound,. . 50 Cushing’s Manual, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Applications for Membership, per 100, . 60 Membership Cards, per 100, . . . . . . . . . . . .. 50 Withdrawal Cards, per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Dimits, in envelopes, per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . 25 By-Laws of the State and Subordinate Granges, single copies 5c, per doz., . . . . . 60 New kind of Singing Books, with music, Single copy 15 cts. per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 80 Rituals, single copy, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 “ per d 1 60 oz., . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blanks for Consolidation of Granges, sent free on application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blank Applications for Membership in P0- mona. Granges, furnished free on appli- cation. Blank “Articles of Association” for the Incorporation of Subordinate Granges with Copy of Charter, all complete,. . . . . l0 Patton's Pocket Companion, by J. A. Cra- mer, Cloth, 60 cts., Moracco with tuck, . 1 00 Notice to Delinquent Members, per 100. . . 40 Address, J. T. COBB, SEC’Y MICK. STATE GRANGE, SCHOOLCRAFT. MICH. HENRY COLLINS, NURSERYMAN, . White Pigeon, St. Joseph Co., Mich. Evergreens;-I-ledge Plants, -—AND— SMALL FRUITS A SPECIALTY. Norway Spruce, European Larch, Scotch and Austrian Pine, American Arborvitae, Osage Orange, Honey Locust. Raspberries. Strawberries, Gooseberries, Currants. SEND FOR PRICE LIST. iebl-t3 Beautify Your Homes! ! ——o Encouraged by the many kind words from those to whom I sent seeds last year, and in answer to letters of in- quiry, I would inform all brother and sister Patrons that I will send them $1.50 WORTH OF FLOWER OR VEGETABLE SEEDS, in packets, or $1.25 worth of Seeds by the oz., 1b., pt. or qt., or $1.35 worth of Bulbs, Flowering or Vege- table Plants, Shrubs, Vines or Fruit Trees, for each and EVERY $l.00 SENT ME by mail before or during the month of March. Light packages will be forwarded by me pre paid. Larger packages will be sent by express and will include extra articles enough to equal the express charges in value. Selections may be made from any STANDARD RETAIL LIST of Flower and Vegetable Seeds, Bulbs, Plants, Trees &c. Send lor anything you want, from a. flower pot to a lawn mower. Questions relative to the culture of Plants, &c., promptly answered; but such questions should be written on a separate sheet from the orders. Refer to Mrs. J. J. VVoodman, Paw Paw; Mrs. A S. Stanard, Lowell; or Mrs. R. S. Dickson, Dowagiac. Address C. L. WHITNEY, Lake Shore Greenhouse and Garden, MUSKEGON, Mien. Grow Your Own Delicacies. BEE-KEZEPERS, ATTENTION! Colvin’s Euitelia Bee Hive is made upon an entirely new plan. Experience has proved it to be a superior hive in every respect. Experienced Bee—keepers in- variably pronounce it the best hive in use. It will save one-half the labor and greatly increase the profits of your Apiary. We offer you this Hive upon its merits. We ask you to try it, believing that after a trial you will use no other. €’A reliable man wanted in every County, to introduce it. For descriptive circular, address MCCALL & VVILLIAMS, Sclioolcraft, Mich. Redpath’s FARM Record. THE SIMPLEST. MOST PRACTI- CAL and CONVENIENT BOOK ever published, for keeping Farm Accounts. Recommended by the leading Agriculturists of the State. Every farmer needs one—every in- telligent farmer buys one. Farmers’ and Far.-n|er’s Sons Wanted as Agents in every township. Sample Book mailed to your address on receipt of price, $1.50. Address J. V. REDPATH, l ‘ Kalamazoo, Mich. Wm. H. HARRIS, (Successor to N. D. WETMOBE,) General Bu-operative Grange Agent. WESTERN BUSINESS A SPECIALTY. No. 48 Corondolet Street, New Orleans. Orders for Sugar, Molasses, Coffee, Rice, and all Southern products filled at Wholesale cash rices. Consignments of Flour, Meal, Bacon, ard, Corn, Oats, Hay, Wheat, Bran, Apples, Potatoes, Cabbage, Butter, Eggs, Poultry and Stock solicited. §'Send for Circular. $l®@$15@ $18s_$22@ Make the CHAIN and Look STITCHES, machines. No Machine is cheaper ! No Ma- chine is better ! Guaranteed for five years 1 Money refunded if not satisfied. Secretaries, send for specimens of the work i and circulars for your whole Grange. ’ O. R. INGERSGLL, of Patrons’ Paint Co, Front and Dover Streets, New Yoik. THE UNIVERSAL SEWING llACHlNESe And embrace all the good qualities of the old E i l i l y l MONTGOMERY WARID 65 CO., The Original Wholesale GRANGE SUPPLY HOUSE 227 cm 223 VVAEASE AVENUE, Read the following partial list of the Goods we sell at Wholesale Prices. A ccorxleons, Alpacas, Aprons, Carriage and Buggy Barego, Yelling, Bills, Bug Strings, lied Snr ngs, Bed Quilts, Belting, Biachine, Belts, Ladies, BI.-avers, Bill Books, Bishop Lawn, Blank Books, Blankets, Bed and Horse, Bleached Cotton, Blacking, lllueing, _ Boots and Shoes, Brushes, Shaving, Brushes, Tuolh. Brusliss, Blacking, Brushes, Nail, Brushes, Hair. Brushes, Cloth, Brushes, liorsc, Brussels Net, Braids, Bracelets, Bracelets, Illustrated List. Brown Cotton, Broadcloth, Bustles, Buttons, Buckles, Pants, Carpet Warp and Yarn, Carpets, Carpet Binding, Carpenters‘ Rules, Cards, Playing, Cambric, Cable Cord, Canvass, Csssiinere, Cement, Rubber, Chromos, Chains, \\'n.tch and Neck, Chains, Illustrated Li-sf. Chambmy, ' Checked Shilting, Cheviot Shirting, Chess and Chess Boards, Cloths and Cassimcres, Clothing, Clothes Wringors, Cluny Lace, Clocks, Clocks, Illwztratcd Iii.-:t. Cotton Batting, Cotton Flannel, Cottonades, Concertinas, Corset Jeans, Corsets sud Clasps, Corset Laces, Coat Bindings, Combs, Assorted Styles, Corduroy, Crash, Cribbage Boards and Boxes, Croquet Sets, Crotchet Edging, l Curtains, Lace, Cm ry Combs, Cutlery, Denims, Diaper, Diaper Pins, l)«-eskins, Dominoes, Dr:-as Goods, Dress Binding, Drilling, Cotton, Drilling, Linnen, Docking, Edgings and lnsertings, Elastic Cord and Web, Embroidery Silk, Embroidery Cotton, Fans, Farmers‘ Satin, Feathers, Flannel, Cotton, Flannel, Union Checks, Flannel, Shaker, Flannel, Wool, Plain, Flannel, Wool Twillevl, Flannel, Wool Plain. Flannel, Opera, Flowers cud Plumes, Flasks, Frilling, Fringss, Fringes, Silk and Worsted, Furs, Fustinn, Gents’ Ties, Bows it Sczufs, Cringhams, Gifllpfl, Gloves, Ladies’ «it Children's, Gloves, Meu‘s and Boys, Grass Cloth, Grenadines, Grain Bags, Iiarinonicas, Hats and Caps, Hnir Pins, Hand Glasses, Handkerchiefs, Ladies‘, Handkerchiefs, Gents’, Hosiery, Ladies‘ Hosiery, Misses‘ 5 Children's liosiery, Men's and Boys’, Hooks and Eyes, Irish Linen, Jaconst, Jewelry, Jewelry, Illustrated List, Kettles, Brass ¢£- Porcelain, Kentucky Jeans, Knit Jackets, Ladies‘, Knit Jackets, Gents’. Knitting Cotton, Knives and Forks, Laces, Shoe, Lars Trimming, Lap Robes, Lanterns, Lamp and Candle Wick, Ladies’ Silk Neck Handker- chiefs, Ladies‘ Cloth, Lawn, Dress, Leggings, Wool, Lt-ggings,Rubber, Led Pencils, Linen Shirt Boosoms, Linen Drill, Linen, Table. Linen. Birds-eyi-, Linen Thread, , ! Linen Braid, Linen Floss. Linen Collars and Cuff.-, Liiiry, Locks. Lockets, Lockets, Illuxtratc(l List. Marseilles and Piques, Mattresses, Memorandum Books, Miscellaneous Articles, Mittens, lliens’ and Boys‘, Mohair, Dress, Mohair. Binding, Monkey Wrenches, Mosquito Netting, Nankeens, Nainsook, Napkins, Napkin Rings, Rubber, Napkin R‘s, Illll~\‘D'(l[L'(l List Neckties, Gents’, Neckties, Ladies’, Needles and Thread, Nursery Rubber Sheeting, N ubies, Oil Cloths, Floor, Overalls and Jumpers, Padlcwkxl, Parasols, Paper Collars and Cliffs, Pens and Penholrlcrs, Perfumery, Percules, Pillow Case Cotton, Pillow Case Edging, Pins, Pins and Ear Rings, Pins, Emblem, Pins, Emblem, Illmclratal List. Pocket Books, Prints, Quilts, White, Quilts, Colored, Razors and Razor Strops, Repellents, . l Linen, Dress, ‘ r Revolvers, Rings, Rings, Illustrated List. Ribbons, Rope, Rubber Diaper, Rubber Balls, Rubber Shooting and Bibs, Rubber Belting, Machine, Rubber Boots and Shoes, Rubber Clothing, - Rushes and Ruching, Rules, Rufliing, Sash Ribbon, Satinets, Satchels, Saddles, Scsrfs, Silk, Srarfs, Wool, Sewing Silk, Sewing Machine Needles and Attachments, Sewing Machines, Sewing Machines Illustra- ted List Seines, Sheeting. Unblesu-lied, Sheeting White, Sheeting, Bll*:iCll(-Ell, Shirting, Uiibleaclu-vi, Shining. Bleached, Shirts, White, Shirts, Checked and Striped, Shirts, Over, Shirt Bosoms, Shirt Studs, Shears and Scissors, Shawls, Shawl Straps, Shawl Pins, Shawl Pius, Illustrated List Silesi-as, Silk, Silver Plated Ware, Silver Plated Ware, Illus- trated List. Spoons and Forks, Silver Plated, Skirts, ' Skirt and Coat Braid, Sleeve Buttons, Soap, Toilet and Silver, Spool Cotton and Linen, Star Braid, Stationery, Suspenders, Swiss Mull, Syringes. Tape, Linen and Cotton, Tape Measures, Table Spreads, Tens, Terry for Cloaking, Thread Late, Thermometers, Ticking, Tick Binding, Tobacco, Towels and Toweling. Trunks, Traveling Bags, Umbrellas, Underwear, Ladies’ Underwear, Gents‘ Yalises, Valenciennes Lace, Yelvsteeiis, Veils and Veiling, Violins. Victoria. Lawn, Watches, Waterproof, Wash Blond, Wadlling, Wolting Coral, Whalebone, Wiinlow Curtain, Wiguns, Wicks, ‘Vic-kings, Wool Twine, Wool Scsrfs Work Boxes, Yak Lace. (lA.TAI1(.)G[llllS AND PRICE LISTS or A ~ ~ ‘r TO ANY ADDRESS ON AP1>Ii.Iiciiii1Ii>N(.J00Db FRE susn ALSO FOR SPECIAL ILLUSTRATED LIST or - SEW,“ MACHINES3’IggXI1‘)1lI)iLEASND&SCIL\'ER—PLATED WAR!-7, CL0