file was produced from images produced by ,core ,historical ,literature in ,agriculture 7,,chla71 ,cornell ,university7 ,transcriber's ,note3 ,typographical errors and inconsistencies are listed at the end of the text4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,rural ,,architecture4 ,being ,a ,complete ,description of ,,farm ,,houses1 ,,cottages1 and ,,out ,,buildings1 ,comprising ,wood ,houses1 ,workshops1 ,tool ,houses1 ,carriage and ,wagon ,houses1 ,stables1 ,smoke and ,ash ,houses1 ,ice ,houses1 ,apiary or ,bee ,house1 ,poultry ,houses1 ,rabbitry1 ,dovecote1 ,piggery1 ,barns and ,sheds for ,cattle1 c41 c41 c4 ,together ,with ,lawns1 ,pleasure ,grounds and ,parks2 ,the ,flower1 ,fruit and ,vegetable ,garden4 ,also1 ,useful and ,ornamental ,domestic ,animals for the ,country ,resident1 c41 c41 c4 ,also1 ,the ,best ,method ,of ,,conducting ,,water ,,into ,,cattle ,,yards ,,and ,,houses4 ,,by ,,lewis ,f4 ,,allen4 ,beautifully ,illustrated4 ,new ,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 ,agricultural ,book ,publisher4 #aheb4 ,entered according to ,act of ,congress1 in the year #aheb4 ,by ,,lewis ,f4 ,,allen1 ,in the ,clerk's ,office of the ,district ,court of the ,united ,states for the ,southern ,district of ,new ,york4 ,stereotyped by ,,jewett1 ,,thomas ,,and ,,co4 ,buffalo1 ,n4,y4 ,,advertisement4 ,the writer of these pages ought1 perhaps1 to apologize for attempting a work on a subject1 of which he is not a professional master1 either in design or execution4 ,in the science of ,farm buildings he claims no better knowledge than a long practical observation has given him4 ,the thoughts herein submitted for the consideration of those interested in the subject of ,farm buildings are the result of that observation1 added to his experience in the use of such buildings1 and a conviction of the inconveniences attending many of those already planned and erected4 ,nor is it intended1 in the production of this work1 to interfere with the labors of the professional builder4 ,to such builder all who may be disposed to adopt any model or suggestion here presented1 are referred1 for the various details1 in their specifications1 and estimates1 that may be required2 presuming that the designs and descriptions of this work will be sufficient for the guidance of any master builder1 in their erection and completion4 ,but for the solicitation of those who believe that the undersigned could offer some improvements in the construction of ,farm buildings for the benefit of our landholders and practical farmers1 these pages would probably never have appeared4 ,they are offered in the hope that they may be useful in assisting to form the taste1 and add to the comfort of those who are the main instruments in embellishing the face of our country in its most pleasing and agreeable features--the ,american ,farmer4 ,,lewis ,f4 ,,allen4 ,black ,rock1 ,n4,y4 #ahea4 ,,note4--,for throwing the ,designs embraced in these pages into their present artistic form1 the writer is indebted to ,messrs4 ,otis ,brown1 architects1 of ,buffalo1 to whose skill and experience he takes a pleasure in recommending such as may wish instruction in the plans1 drawings1 specifications1 or estimates relating to either of the designs here submitted1 or for others of any kind that may be adapted to their purposes4 ,l4 ,f4 ,a4 ,,contents4 ,page4 ,,prefatory1 #i ,,introductory1 #ac ,general ,suggestions1 #ai ,style of ,building--,miscellaneous1 #bc ,position of ,farm ,houses1 #bi ,home ,embellishments1 #cb ,material for ,farm ,buildings1 #cg ,outside ,color of ,houses1 #db ,a ,short ,chapter on ,taste1 #dh ,the ,construction of ,cellars1 #ed ,ventilation of ,houses1 #ef ,interior ,accommodation of ,houses1 #fe ,chimney ,tops1 #fh ,preliminary to our ,designs1 #fi ,,design ,i4 ,a ,farm ,house1 #gb ,interior ,arrangement1 #ge ,ground ,plan1 #gf ,chamber ,plan1 #gg ,miscellaneous1 #hj ,as a ,tenant ,house1 #ha ,,design ,,ii4 ,description1 #hd ,ground and ,chamber ,plans1 #hi ,interior ,arrangement1 #ij ,miscellaneous ,details1 #ie ,,design ,,iii4 ,description1 #aja ,ground and ,chamber ,plans1 #aje ,interior ,arrangement1 #ajf ,miscellaneous1 #aaa ,,design ,,iv4 ,description1 #aad ,interior ,arrangement1 #aah ,ground ,plan1 #aai ,chamber ,plan1 #abj ,surrounding ,plantations1 ,shrubbery1 ,walks1 c41 #abe ,tree ,planting in the ,highway1 #abi ,,design ,v4 ,description1 #acc ,interior ,arrangement1 #ace ,ground ,plan1 #acf ,chamber ,plan1 #adb ,construction1 ,cost of ,building1 c41 #adg ,grounds1 ,plantations1 and ,surroundings1 #adi ,,design ,,vi4 ,a ,southern1 or ,plantation ,house1 #aed ,interior ,arrangement1 #aei ,chamber ,plan1 #afb ,carriage ,house1 #afc ,miscellaneous1 #afc ,lawn and ,park ,surroundings1 #aff ,an ,ancient ,new ,england ,family1 #afh ,an ,american ,homestead of the ,last ,century1 #afi ,estimate of ,cost of ,design ,,vi1 #agb ,,design ,,vii4 ,a ,plantation ,house1 #age ,interior ,arrangement1 #agf ,ground ,plan1 #agg ,chamber ,plan1 #agh ,miscellaneous1 #agi ,,lawns1 ,,grounds1 ,,parks1 ,,and ,,woods1 #aha ,the ,forest ,trees of ,america1 #ahc ,influence of ,trees and ,forests on the ,character of men1 #ahd ,hillhouse and ,walter ,scott as ,tree ,planters1 #ahg ,doctor ,johnson1 no ,rural ,taste1 #ahh ,fruit ,garden--,orchard1 #aid ,how to lay out a ,kitchen ,garden1 #aig ,flowers1 #bjb ,wild ,flowers of ,america1 #bjc ,succession of ,home ,flowers1 #bjf ,,farm ,,cottages1 #bjh ,,design ,i1 and ,ground ,plan1 #bac ,interior ,arrangement #bad ,,design ,,ii1 and ,ground ,plan1 #baf ,interior ,arrangement1 #baf ,,design ,,iii1 and ,ground ,plan1 #bbj ,interior ,arrangement1 #bbj ,,design ,,iv1 and ,ground ,plan1 #bbf ,interior ,arrangement1 #bbi ,cottage ,outside ,decoration1 #bca ,cottages on the ,skirts of ,estates1 #bcc ,house and ,cottage ,furniture1 #bce ,,apiary1 ,,or ,,bee ,,house1 #bdf ,view of ,apiary and ,ground ,plan1 and description1 #bdi ,mode of ,taking the ,honey1 #beb ,,an ,,ice ,,house1 #beh ,elevation and ,ground ,plan1 #bfj ,,an ,,ash ,,house ,,and ,,smoke ,,house1 #bfd ,elevation and ,ground ,plan1 #bfe ,,the ,,poultry ,,house1 #bfg ,elevation and ,ground ,plan1 #bfi ,interior ,arrangement1 #bga ,,the ,,dovecote1 #bge ,different ,varieties of ,pigeons1 #bgh ,a ,,piggery1 #bgi ,elevation and ,ground ,plan1 #bha ,interior ,arrangement1 #bhb ,construction of ,piggery--,cost1 #bhc ,,farm ,,barns1 #bhf ,,design ,i4 ,description1 #bia ,interior ,arrangement1 and ,main ,floor ,plan1 #bic ,underground ,plan1 and ,yard1 #bie ,,design ,,ii4 ,description1 #cjj ,interior ,arrangement1 #cjc ,floor ,plan1 #cjd ,,barn ,,attachments1 #cjh ,,rabbits1 #caa ,mr4 ,rotch's ,description of his ,rabbits1 #cac ,rabbits and ,hutch1 #cae ,dutch1 and ,english ,rabbits1 #cah ,mode of ,feeding1 #cai ,mr4 ,rodman's ,rabbitry1 ,elevation1 and ,floor ,plan1 #cbb ,explanations1 #cbc ,loft or ,garret1 ,explanation1 #cbd ,cellar plan1 ,explanation1 #cbe ,front and ,back of ,hutches1 and ,explanation1 #cbf ,,dairy ,,buildings1 #ccj ,cheese ,dairy ,house1 #ccj ,elevation of ,dairy ,house and ,ground ,plan1 #cca ,interior ,arrangement1 #ccc ,the ,butter ,dairy1 #cce ,,the ,,water ,,ram1 #bcg ,figure and ,description1 #cch ,,granary--,rat-proof1 #cdc ,,improved ,,domestic ,,animals1 #cde ,short ,horn ,bull1 #cdi ,short ,horn ,cow1 #ceb ,devon ,cow and ,bull1 #cee ,southdown ,ram and ,ewe1 #cei ,long-wooled ,ram and ,ewe1 #cfb ,common ,sheep1 #cfd ,remarks1 #cfe ,,waterfowls1 #cgj ,the ,african ,goose1 #cgj ,china ,goose1 #cga ,bremen ,goose1 #cgb ,a ,,word ,,about ,,dogs1 #cgd ,smooth ,terrier1 #cgg ,shepherd ,dog1 #cha ,,prefatory4 ,this work owes its appearance to the absence of any cheap and popular book on the subject of ,rural ,architecture1 exclusively intended for the farming or agricultural interest of the ,united ,states4 ,why it is1 that nothing of the kind has been heretofore attempted for the chief benefit of so large and important a class of our community as our farmers comprise1 is not easy to say1 unless it be that they themselves have indicated but little wish for instruction in a branch of domestic economy which is1 in reality1 one of great importance1 not only to their domestic enjoyment1 but their pecuniary welfare4 ,it is1 too1 perhaps1 among the category of neglects1 and in the lack of fidelity to their own interests which pervades the agricultural community of this country1 beyond those of any other profession--for we insist that agriculture1 in its true and extended sense1 is as much a profession as any other pursuit whatever4 ,to the reality of such neglects they have but of late awaked1 and indeed are now far too slowly wheeling into line for more active progress in the knowledge pertaining to their own advancement4 ,as an accessory to their labors in such advancement1 the present work is intended4 ,it is an opinion far too prevalent among those engaged in the more active occupations of our people1--fortified indeed in such opinion1 by the too frequent example of the farmer himself--that everything connected with agriculture and agricultural life is of a rustic and uncouth character2 that it is a profession in which ignorance1 as they understand the term1 is entirely consistent1 and one with which no aspirations of a high or an elevated character should1 or at least need be connected4 ,it is a reflection upon the integrity of the great agricultural interest of the country1 that any such opinion should prevail2 and discreditable to that interest1 that its condition or example should for a moment justify1 or even tolerate it4 ,without going into any extended course of remark1 we shall find ample reason for the indifference which has prevailed among our rural population1 on the subject of their own domestic architecture1 in the absence of familiar and practical works on the subject1 by such as have given any considerable degree of thought to it2 and1 what little thought has been devoted to this branch of building1 has been incidentally rather than directly thrown off by those professionally engaged in the finer architectural studies appertaining to luxury and taste1 instead of the every-day wants of a strictly agricultural population1 and1 of consequence1 understanding but imperfectly the wants and conveniences of the farm house in its connection with the every-day labors and necessities of farm life4 ,it is not intended1 in these remarks1 to depreciate the efforts of those who have attempted to instruct our farmers in this interesting branch of agricultural economy4 ,we owe them a debt of gratitude for what they have accomplished in the introduction of their designs to our notice2 and when it is remarked that they are insufficient for the purposes intended1 it may be also taken as an admission of our own neglect1 that we have so far disregarded the subject ourselves1 as to force upon others the duty of essaying to instruct us in a work of which we ourselves should long ago have been the masters4 ,why should a farmer1 because he is a farmer1 only occupy an uncouth1 outlandish house1 any more than a professional man1 a merchant1 or a mechanic8 ,is it because he himself is so uncouth and outlandish in his thoughts and manners1 that he deserves no better8 ,is it because his occupation is degrading1 his intellect ignorant1 his position in life low1 and his associations debasing8 ,surely not4 ,yet1 in many of the plans and designs got up for his accommodation1 in the books and publications of the day1 all due convenience1 to say nothing of the respectability or the elegance of domestic life1 is as entirely disregarded as if such qualities had no connection with the farmer or his occupation4 ,we hold1 that although many of the practical operations of the farm may be rough1 laborious1 and untidy1 yet they are not1 and need not be inconsistent with the knowledge and practice of neatness1 order1 and even elegance and refinement within doors2 and1 that the due accommodation of the various things appertaining to farm stock1 farm labor1 and farm life1 should have a tendency to elevate the social position1 the associations1 thoughts1 and entire condition of the farmer4 ,as the man himself--no matter what his occupation--be lodged and fed1 so influenced1 in a degree1 will be his practice in the daily duties of his life4 ,a squalid1 miserable tenement1 with which they who inhabit it are content1 can lead to no elevation of character1 no improvement in condition1 either social or moral1 of its occupants4 ,but1 the family comfortably and tidily1 although humbly provided in their habitation and domestic arrangements1 have usually a corresponding character in their personal relations4 ,a log cabin1 even1--and ,i speak of this primitive ,american structure with profound affection and regard1 as the shelter from which we have achieved the most of our prodigious and rapid agricultural conquests1--may be so constructed as to speak an air of neatness1 intelligence1 and even refinement in those who inhabit it4 ,admitting1 then1 without further argument1 that well conditioned household accommodations are as important to the farmer1 even to the indulgence of luxury itself1 when it can be afforded1 as for those who occupy other and more active pursuits1 it is quite important that he be equally well instructed in the art of planning and arranging these accommodations1 and in designing1 also1 the various other structures which are necessary to his wants in their fullest extent4 ,as a question of economy1 both in saving and accumulating1 good and sufficient buildings are of the first consequence1 in a pecuniary light1 and when to this are added other considerations touching our social enjoyment1 our advancement in temporal condition1 our associations1 our position and influence in life1 and1 not least1 the decided item of national good taste which the introduction of good buildings throughout our extended agricultural country will give1 we find abundant cause for effort in improvement4 ,it is not intended in our remarks to convey the impression that we ,americans1 as a people1 are destitute of comfortable1 and1 in many cases1 quite convenient household and farm arrangements4 ,numerous farmeries in every section of the ,united ,states1 particularly in the older ones1 demonstrate most fully1 that where our farmers have taken the trouble to think on the subject1 their ingenuity has been equal1 in the items of convenient and economical arrangement of their dwellings and out-buildings1 to their demands4 ,but1 we are forced to say1 that such buildings have been executed1 in most cases1 with great neglect of architectural system1 taste1 or effect2 and1 in many instances1 to the utter violation of all propriety in appearance1 or character1 as appertaining to the uses for which they are applied4 ,the character of the farm should be carried out so as to express itself in everything which it contains4 ,all should bear a consistent relation with each other4 ,the former himself is a plain man4 ,his family are plain people1 although none the less worthy1 useful1 or exalted1 on that account4 ,his structures1 of every kind1 should be plain1 also1 yet substantial1 where substance is required4 ,all these detract nothing from his respectability or his influence in the neighborhood1 the town1 the county1 or the state4 ,a farmer has quite as much business in the field1 or about his ordinary occupations1 with ragged garments1 out at elbows1 and a crownless hat1 as he has to occupy a leaky1 wind-broken1 and dilapidated house4 ,neither is he any nearer the mark1 with a ruffled shirt1 a fancy dress1 or gloved hands1 when following his plough behind a pair of fancy horses1 than in living in a finical1 pretending house1 such as we see stuck up in conspicuous places in many parts of the country4 ,all these are out of place in each extreme1 and the one is as absurd1 so far as true propriety is concerned1 as the other4 ,a fitness of things1 or a correspondence of one thing with another1 should always be preserved upon the farm1 as elsewhere2 and there is not a single reason why propriety and good keeping should not as well distinguish it4 ,nor is there any good cause why the farmer himself should not be a man of taste1 in the arrangement and architecture of every building on his place1 as well as other men4 ,it is only necessary that he devote a little time to study1 in order to give his mind a right direction in all that appertains to this department4 ,or1 if he prefer to employ the ingenuity of others to do his planning1--which1 by the way1 is1 in most cases1 the more natural and better course1--he certainly should possess sufficient judgment to see that such plans be correct and will answer his purposes4 ,the plans and directions submitted in this work are intended to be of the most practical kind2 plain1 substantial1 and applicable1 throughout1 to the purposes intended1 and such as are within the reach--each in their kind--of every farmer in our country4 ,these plans are chiefly original2 that is1 they are not copied from any in the books1 or from any structures with which the writer is familiar4 ,yet they will doubtless1 on examination1 be found in several cases to resemble buildings1 both in outward appearance and interior arrangement1 with which numerous readers may be acquainted4 ,the object1 in addition to our own designs1 has been to apply practical hints1 gathered from other structures in use1 which have seemed appropriate for a work of the limited extent here offered1 and that may serve to improve the taste of all such as1 in building useful structures1 desire to embellish their farms and estates in an agreeable style of home architecture1 at once pleasant to the eye1 and convenient in their arrangement4 ,,introductory4 ,the lover of country life who looks upon rural objects in the true spirit1 and1 for the first time surveys the cultivated portions of the ,united ,states1 will be struck with the incongruous appearance and style of our farm houses and their contiguous buildings2 and1 although1 on examination1 he will find many1 that in their interior accommodation1 and perhaps relative arrangement to each other1 are tolerably suited to the business and convenience of the husbandman1 still1 the feeling will prevail that there is an absence of method1 congruity1 and correct taste in the architectural structure of his buildings generally1 by the ,american farmer4 ,we may1 in truth1 be said to have no architecture at all1 as exhibited in our agricultural districts1 so far as any correct system1 or plan is concerned1 as the better taste in building1 which a few years past has introduced among us1 has been chiefly confined to our cities and towns of rapid growth4 ,even in the comparatively few buildings in the modern style to be seen in our farming districts1 from the various requirements of those buildings being partially unknown to the architect and builder1 who had their planning--and upon whom1 owing to their own inexperience in such matters1 their employers have relied--a majority of such dwellings have turned out1 if not absolute failures1 certainly not what the necessities of the farmer has demanded4 ,consequently1 save in the mere item of outward appearance--and that1 not always--the farmer and cottager have gained nothing1 owing to the absurdity in style or arrangement1 and want of fitness to circumstances adopted for the occasion4 ,we have stated that our prevailing rural architecture is discordant in appearance2 it may be added1 that it is also uncouth1 out of keeping with correct rules1 and1 ofttimes offensive to the eye of any lover of rural harmony4 ,why it is so1 no matter1 beyond the apology already given--that of an absence of cultivation1 and thought upon the subject4 ,it may be asked1 of what consequence is it that the farmer or small property-holder should conform to given rules1 or mode1 in the style and arrangement of his dwelling1 or out-buildings1 so that they be reasonably convenient1 and answer his purposes8 ,for the same reason that he requires symmetry1 excellence of form or style1 in his horses1 his cattle1 or other farm stock1 household furniture1 or personal dress4 ,it is an arrangement of artificial objects1 in harmony with natural objects2 a cultivation of the sympathies which every rational being should have1 more or less1 with true taste2 that costs little or nothing in the attainment1 and1 when attained1 is a source of gratification through life4 ,every human being is bound1 under ordinary circumstances1 to leave the world somewhat better1 so far as his own acts or exertions are concerned1 than he found it1 in the exercise of such faculties as have been given him4 ,such duty1 among thinking men1 is conceded1 so far as the moral world is concerned2 and why not in the artificial8 ,so far as the influence for good goes1 in all practical use1 from the building of a temple1 to the knocking together of a pig-stye--a labor of years1 or the work of a day--the exercise of a correct taste is important1 in a degree4 ,in the available physical features of a country1 no land upon earth exceeds ,north ,america4 ,from scenery the most sublime1 through the several gradations of magnificence and grandeur1 down to the simply picturesque and beautiful1 in all variety and shade2 in compass vast1 or in area limited1 we have an endless variety1 and1 with a pouring out of ,god's harmonies in the creation1 without a parallel1 inviting every intelligent mind to study their features and character1 in adapting them to his own uses1 and1 in so doing1 to even embellish--if such a thing be possible--such exquisite objects with his own most ingenious handiwork4 ,indeed1 it is a profanation to do otherwise2 and when so to improve them requires no extraordinary application of skill1 or any extravagant outlay in expense1 not to plan and to build in conformity with good taste1 is an absolute barbarism1 inexcusable in a land like ours1 and among a population claiming the intelligence we do1 or making but a share of the general progress which we exhibit4 ,it is the idea of some1 that a house or building which the farmer or planter occupies1 should1 in shape1 style1 and character1 be like some of the stored-up commodities of his farm or plantation4 ,we cannot subscribe to this suggestion4 ,we know of no good reason why the walls of a farm house should appear like a hay rick1 or its roof like the thatched covering to his wheat stacks1 because such are the shapes best adapted to preserve his crops1 any more than the grocer's habitation should be made to imitate a tea chest1 or the shipping merchant's a rum puncheon1 or cotton bale4 ,we have an idea that the farmer1 or the planter1 according to his means and requirements1 should be as well housed and accommodated1 and in as agreeable style1 too1 as any other class of community2 not in like character1 in all things1 to be sure1 but in his own proper way and manner4 ,nor do we know why a farm house should assume a peculiarly primitive or uncultivated style of architecture1 from other sensible houses4 ,that it be a farm house1 is sufficiently apparent from its locality upon the farm itself2 that its interior arrangement be for the convenience of the in-door farm work1 and the proper accommodation of the farmer's family1 should be quite as apparent2 but1 that it should assume an uncouth or clownish aspect1 is as unnecessary as that the farmer himself should be a boor in his manners1 or a dolt in his intellect4 ,the farm1 in its proper cultivation1 is the foundation of all human prosperity1 and from it is derived the main wealth of the community4 ,from the farm chiefly springs that energetic class of men1 who replace the enervated and physically decaying multitude continually thrown off in the waste-weir of our great commercial and manufacturing cities and towns1 whose population1 without the infusion--and that continually--of the strong1 substantial1 and vigorous life blood of the country1 would soon dwindle into insignificance and decrepitude4 ,why then should not this first1 primitive1 health-enjoying and life-sustaining class of our people be equally accommodated in all that gives to social and substantial life1 its due development8 ,it is absurd to deny them by others1 or that they deny themselves1 the least of such advantages1 or that any mark of caste be attempted to separate them from any other class or profession of equal wealth1 means1 or necessity4 ,it is quite as well to say that the farmer should worship on the ,sabbath in a meeting-house1 built after the fashion of his barn1 or that his district school house should look like a stable1 as that his dwelling should not exhibit all that cheerfulness and respectability in form and feature which belongs to the houses of any class of our population whatever4 ,not that the farm house should be like the town or the village house1 in character1 style1 or architecture1 but that it should1 in its own proper character1 express all the comfort1 repose1 and quietude which belong to the retired and thoughtful occupation of him who inhabits it4 ,sheltered in its own secluded1 yet independent domain1 with a cheerful1 intelligent exterior1 it should exhibit all the pains-taking in home embellishment and rural decoration that becomes its position1 and which would make it an object of attraction and regard4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,rural ,,architecture4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,general ,,suggestions4 ,in ascertaining what is desirable to the conveniences1 or the necessities in our household arrangement1 it may be not unprofitable to look about us1 and consider somewhat1 the existing condition of the structures too many of us now inhabit1 and which1 in the light of true fitness for the objects designed1 are inconvenient1 absurd1 and out of all harmony of purpose2 yet1 under the guidance of a better skill1 and a moderate outlay1 might be well adapted1 in most cases1 to our convenience and comfort1 and quite well1 to a reasonable standard of taste in architectural appearance4 ,at the threshold--not of the house1 but of this treatise--it may be well to remark that it is not here assumed that there has been neither skill1 ingenuity1 nor occasional good taste exhibited1 for many generations back1 in the ,united ,states1 in the construction of farm and country houses4 ,on the contrary1 there are found in the older states many farm and country houses that are almost models1 in their way1 for convenience in the main purposes required of structures of their kind1 and such as can hardly be altered for the better4 ,such1 however1 form the exception1 not the rule2 yet instead of standing as objects for imitation1 they have been ruled out as antiquated1 and unfit for modern builders to consult1 who have in the introduction of some real improvements1 also left out1 or discarded much that is valuable1 and1 where true comfort is concerned1 indispensable to perfect housekeeping4 ,alteration is not always improvement1 and in the rage for innovation of all kinds1 among much that is valuable1 a great deal in house-building has been introduced that is absolutely pernicious4 ,take1 for instance1 some of our ancient-looking country houses of the last century1 which1 in ,america1 we call old4 ,see their ample dimensions2 their heavy1 massive walls2 their low1 comfortable ceilings2 their high gables2 sharp roofs2 deep porches1 and spreading eaves1 and contrast them with the ambitious1 tall1 proportionless1 and card-sided things of a modern date1 and draw the comparison in true comfort1 which the ancient mansion really affords1 by the side of the other4 ,bating its huge chimneys1 its wide fire-places1 its heavy beams dropping below the ceiling overhead1 and the lack of some modern conveniences1 which1 to be added1 would give all that is desired1 and every man possessed of a proper judgment will concede the superiority to the house of the last century4 ,that ,american house-building of the last fifty years is out of joint1 requires no better proof than that the main improvements which have been applied to our rural architecture1 are in the ,english style of farm and country houses of two or three centuries ago2 so1 in that particular1 we acknowledge the better taste and judgment of our ancestors4 ,true1 modern luxury1 and in some particulars1 modern improvement has made obsolete1 if not absurd1 many things considered indispensable in a ruder age4 ,the wide1 rambling halls and rooms2 the huge1 deep fire-places in the chimneys2 the proximity of out-buildings1 and the contiguity of stables1 ricks1 and cattle-yards--all these are wisely contracted1 dispensed with1 or thrown off to a proper distance2 but instead of such style being abandoned altogether1 as has too often been done1 the house itself might better have been partially reformed1 and the interior arrangement adapted to modern convenience4 ,such changes have in some instances been made2 and when so1 how often does the old mansion1 with outward features in good preservation1 outspeak1 in all the expression of home-bred comforts1 the flashy1 gimcrack neighbor1 which in its plenitude of modern pretension looks so flauntingly down upon it6 ,we cannot1 in the ,united ,states1 consistently adopt the domestic architecture of any other country1 throughout1 to our use4 ,we are different in our institutions1 our habits1 our agriculture1 our climates4 ,utility is our chief object1 and coupled with that1 the indulgence of an agreeable taste may be permitted to every one who creates a home for himself1 or founds one for his family4 ,the frequent changes of estates incident to our laws1 and the many inducements held out to our people to change their locality or residence1 in the hope of bettering their condition1 is a strong hindrance to the adoption of a universally correct system in the construction of our buildings2 deadening1 as the effect of such changes1 that home feeling which should be a prominent trait of agricultural character4 ,an attachment to locality is not a conspicuous trait of ,american character2 and if there be a people on earth boasting a high civilization and intelligence1 who are at the same time a roving race1 the ,americans are that people2 and we acknowledge it a blemish in our domestic and social constitution4 ,such remark is not dropped invidiously1 but as a reason why we have thus far made so little progress in the arts of home embellishment1 and in clustering about our habitations those innumerable attractions which win us to them sufficiently to repel the temptation so often presented to our enterprise1 our ambition1 or love of gain--and these not always successful--in seeking other and distant places of abode4 ,if1 then1 this tendency to change--a want of attachment to any one spot--is a reason why we have been so indifferent to domestic architecture2 and if the study and practice of a better system of building tends to cultivate a home feeling1 why should it not be encouraged8 ,home attachment is a virtue4 ,therefore let that virtue be cherished4 ,and if any one study tend to exalt our taste1 and promote our enjoyment1 let us cultivate that study to the highest extent within our reach4 ,,style ,,of ,,building4--,,miscellaneous4 ,diversified as are the features of our country in climate1 soil1 surface1 and position1 no one style of rural architecture is properly adapted to the whole2 and it is a gratifying incident to the indulgence in a variety of taste1 that we possess the opportunity which we desire in its display to almost any extent in mode and effect4 ,the ,swiss chalet may hang in the mountain pass2 the pointed ,gothic may shoot up among the evergreens of the rugged hill-side2 the ,italian roof1 with its overlooking campanile1 may command the wooded slope or the open plain2 or the quaint and shadowy style of the old ,english mansion1 embosomed in its vines and shrubbery1 may nestle in the quiet1 shaded valley1 all suited to their respective positions1 and each in harmony with the natural features by which it is surrounded4 ,nor does the effect which such structures give to the landscape in an ornamental point of view1 require that they be more imposing in character than the necessities of the occasion may demand4 ,true economy demands a structure sufficiently spacious to accommodate its occupants in the best manner1 so far as convenience and comfort are concerned in a dwelling2 and its conformity to just rules in architecture need not be additionally expensive or troublesome4 ,he who builds at all1 if it be anything beyond a rude or temporary shelter1 may as easily and cheaply build in accordance with correct rules of architecture1 as against such rules2 and it no more requires an extravagance in cost or a wasteful occupation of room to produce a given effect in a house suited to humble means1 than in one of profuse accommodation4 ,magnificence1 or the attempt at magnificence in building1 is the great fault with ,americans who aim to build out of the common line2 and the consequence of such attempt is too often a failure1 apparent1 always1 at a glance1 and of course a perfect condemnation in itself of the judgment as well as taste of him who undertakes it4 ,holding our tenures as we do1 with no privilege of entail to our posterity1 an eye to his own interest1 or to that of his family who is to succeed to his estate1 should admonish the builder of a house to the adoption of a plan which will1 in case of the sale of the estate1 involve no serious loss4 ,he should build such a house as will be no detriment1 in its expense1 to the selling value of the land on which it stands1 and always fitted for the spot it occupies4 ,hence1 an imitation of the high1 extended1 castellated mansions of ,england1 or the ,continent1 although in miniature1 are altogether unsuited to the ,american farmer or planter1 whose lands1 instead of increasing in his family1 are continually subject to division1 or to sale in mass1 on his own demise2 and when the estate is encumbered with unnecessarily large and expensive buildings1 they become an absolute drawback to its value in either event4 ,an expensive house requires a corresponding expense to maintain it1 otherwise its effect is lost1 and many a worthy owner of a costly mansion has been driven to sell and abandon his estate altogether1 from his unwillingness or inability to support the establishment which it entailed2 when1 if the dwelling were only such as the estate required and could reasonably maintain1 a contented and happy home would have remained to himself and family4 ,it behooves1 therefore1 the ,american builder to examine well his premises1 to ascertain the actual requirements of his farm or plantation1 in convenience and accommodation1 and build only to such extent1 and at such cost as shall not impoverish his means1 nor cause him future disquietude4 ,another difficulty with us is1 that we oftener build to gratify the eyes of the public than our own1 and fit up our dwellings to accommodate company or visitors1 rather than our own families2 and in the indulgence of this false notion1 subject ourselves to perpetual inconvenience for the gratification of occasional hospitality or ostentation4 ,this is all wrong4 ,a house should be planned and constructed for the use of the household1 with incidental accommodation for our immediate friends or guests--which can always be done without sacrifice to the comfort or convenience of the regular inmates4 ,in this remark1 a stinted and parsimonious spirit is not suggested4 ,a liberal appropriation of rooms in every department2 a spare chamber or two1 or an additional room on the ground floor1 looking to a possible increase of family1 and the indulgence of an easy hospitality1 should always govern the resident of the country in erecting his dwelling4 ,the enjoyments of society and the intercourse of friends1 sharing for the time1 our own table and fireside1 is a crowning pleasure of country life2 and all this may be done without extraordinary expense1 in a wise construction of the dwelling4 ,the farm house too1 should comport in character and area with the extent and capacity of the farm itself1 and the main design for which it is erected4 ,to the farmer proper--he who lives from the income which the farm produces--it is important to know the extent of accommodation required for the economical management of his estate1 and then to build in accordance with it1 as well as to suit his own position in life1 and the station which he and his family hold in society4 ,the owner of a hundred acre farm1 living upon the income he receives from it1 will require less house room than he who tills equally well his farm of three1 six1 or ten hundred acres4 ,yet the numbers in their respective families1 the relative position of each in society1 or their taste for social intercourse may demand a larger or smaller household arrangement1 regardless of the size of their estates2 still1 the dwellings on each should bear1 in extent and expense1 a consistent relation to the land itself1 and the means of its owner4 ,for instance3 a farm of one hundred acres may safely and economically erect and maintain a house costing eight hundred to two thousand dollars1 while one of five hundred to a thousand acres may range in an expenditure of twenty-five hundred to five thousand dollars in its dwelling1 and all be consistent with a proper economy in farm management4 ,let it be understood1 that the above sums are named as simply comporting with a financial view of the subject1 and such as the economical management of the estate may warrant4 ,to one who has no regard to such consideration1 this rule of expenditure will not apply4 ,he may invest any amount he so chooses in building beyond1 if he only be content to pocket the loss which he can never expect to be returned in an increased value to the property1 over and above the price of cheaper buildings4 ,on the other hand1 he would do well to consider that a farm is frequently worth less to an ordinary purchaser1 with an extravagant house upon it1 than with an economical one1 and in many cases will bring even less in market1 in proportion as the dwelling is expensive4 ,fancy purchasers are few1 and fastidious1 while he who buys only for a home and an occupation1 is governed solely by the profitable returns the estate will afford upon the capital invested4 ,there is again a grand error which many fall into in building1 looking as they do only at the extent of wood and timber2 or stone and mortar in the structure1 and paying no attention to the surroundings1 which in most cases contribute more to the effect of the establishment than the structure itself1 and which1 if uncultivated or neglected1 any amount of expenditure in building will fail to give that completeness and perfection of character which every homestead should command4 ,thus the tawdry erections in imitation of a cast-off feudalism in ,europe1 or a copying of the massive piles of more recent date abroad1 although in miniature1 both in extent and cost1 is the sheerest affectation1 in which no sensible man should ever indulge4 ,it is out of all keeping1 or propriety with other things1 as we in this country have them1 and the indulgence of all such fancies is sooner or later regretted4 ,substance1 convenience1 purpose1 harmony--all1 perhaps1 better summed up in the term ,,expression--these are the objects which should govern the construction of our dwellings and out-buildings1 and in their observance we can hardly err in the acquisition of what will promote the highest enjoyment which a dwelling can bestow4 ,,position4 ,the site of a dwelling should be an important study with every country builder2 for on this depends much of its utility1 and in addition to that1 a large share of the enjoyment which its occupation will afford4 ,custom1 in many parts of the ,united ,states1 in the location of the farm buildings1 gives advantages which are denied in others4 ,in the south1 and in the slave states generally1 the planter builds1 regardless of roads1 on the most convenient site his plantation presents2 the farmer of ,german descent1 in ,pennsylvania and some other states1 does the same3 while the ,yankee1 be he settled where he will1 either in the east1 north1 or west1 inexorably huddles himself immediately upon the highway1 whether his possessions embrace both sides of it or not1 disregarding the facilities of access to his fields1 the convenience of tilling his crops1 or the character of the ground which his buildings may occupy1 seeming to have no other object than proximity to the road--as if his chief business was upon that1 instead of its being simply a convenience to his occupation4 ,to the last1 but little choice is left2 and so long as a close connection with the thoroughfare is to control1 he is obliged to conform to accident in what should be a matter of deliberate choice and judgment4 ,still1 there are right and wrong positions for a house1 which it is necessary to discuss1 regardless of conventional rules1 and they should be considered in the light of propriety alone4 ,a fitness to the purposes for which the dwelling is constructed should1 unquestionably1 be the governing point in determining its position4 ,the site should be dry1 and slightly declining1 if possible1 on every side2 but if the surface be level1 or where water occasionally flows from contiguous grounds1 or on a soil naturally damp1 it should be thoroughly drained of all superfluous moisture4 ,that is indispensable to the preservation of the house itself1 and the health of its inmates4 ,the house should so stand as to present an agreeable aspect from the main points at which it is seen1 or the thoroughfares by which it is approached4 ,it should be so arranged as to afford protection from wind and storm1 to that part most usually occupied1 as well as be easy of access to the out-buildings appended to it4 ,it should have an unmistakable front1 sides1 and rear2 and the uses to which its various parts are applied1 should distinctly appear in its outward character4 ,it should combine all the advantages of soil1 cultivation1 water1 shade1 and shelter1 which the most liberal gratification1 consistent with the circumstances of the owner1 may demand4 ,if a site on the estate command a prospect of singular beauty1 other things equal1 the dwelling should embrace it2 if the luxury of a stream1 or a sheet of water in repose1 present itself1 it should1 if possible1 be enjoyed2 if the shade and protection of a grove be near1 its benefits should be included2 in fine1 any object in itself desirable1 and not embarrassing to the main purposes of the dwelling and its appendages1 should be turned to the best account1 and appropriated in such manner as to combine all that is desirable both in beauty and effect1 as well as in utility1 to make up a perfect whole in the family residence4 ,attached to the building site should be considered the quality of the soil1 as affording cultivation and growth to shrubbery and trees1--at once the ornament most effective to all domestic buildings1 grateful to the eye always1 as objects of admiration and beauty--delightful in the repose they offer in hours of lassitude or weariness2 and to them1 that indispensable feature in a perfect arrangement1 the garden1 both fruit and vegetable1 should be added4 ,happily for the ,american1 our soils are so universally adapted to the growth of vegetation in all its varieties1 that hardly a farm of considerable size can be found which does not afford tolerable facilities for the exercise of all the taste which one may indulge in the cultivation of the garden as well as in the planting and growth of trees and shrubbery2 and a due appropriation of these to an agreeable residence is equal in importance to the style and arrangement of the house itself4 ,the site selected for the dwelling1 and the character of the scenery and objects immediately surrounding it1 should have a controlling influence upon the style in which the house is to be constructed4 ,a fitness and harmony in all these is indispensable to both expression and effect4 ,and in their determination1 a single object should not control1 but the entire picture1 as completed1 should be embraced in the view2 and that style of building constituting the most agreeable whole1 as filling the eye with the most grateful sensations1 should be the one selected with which to fill up and complete the design4 ,,home ,,embellishments4 ,a discussion of the objects by way of embellishment1 which may be required to give character and effect to a country residence1 would embrace a range too wide1 in all its parts1 for a simply practical treatise like this2 and general hints on the subject are all indeed1 that will be required1 as no specific rules or directions can be given which would be applicable1 indiscriminately1 to guide the builder in the execution of his work4 ,a dwelling house1 no matter what the style1 standing alone1 either on hill or plain1 apart from other objects1 would hardly be an attractive sight4 ,as a mere representation of a particular style of architecture1 or as a model of imitation1 it might excite our admiration1 but it would not be an object on which the eye and the imagination could repose with satisfaction4 ,it would be incomplete unless accompanied by such associates as the eye is accustomed to embrace in the full gratification of the sensations to which that organ is the conductor4 ,but assemble around that dwelling subordinate structures1 trees1 and shrubbery properly disposed1 and it becomes an object of exceeding interest and pleasure in the contemplation4 ,it is therefore1 that the particular style or outward arrangement of the house is but a part of what should constitute the general effect1 and such style is to be consulted only so far as it may in itself please the taste1 and give benefit or utility in the purposes for which it is intended4 ,still1 the architectural design should be in harmony with the features of the surrounding scenery1 and is thus important in completing the effect sought1 and which cannot be accomplished without it4 ,a farm with its buildings1 or a simple country residence with the grounds which enclose it1 or a cottage with its door-yard and garden1 should be finished sections of the landscape of which it forms a part1 or attractive points within it2 and of consequence1 complete each within itself1 and not dependent upon distant accessories to support it--an imperium in imperio1 in classic phrase4 ,a tower1 a monument1 a steeple1 or the indistinct outline of a distant town may form a striking feature in a pictorial design and the associations connected with them1 or1 the character in which they are contemplated may allow them to stand naked and unadorned by other objects1 and still permit them to fill up in perfect harmony the picture4 ,this idea will illustrate the importance of embellishment1 not only in the substitution of trees as necessary appendages to a complete rural establishment1 but in the erection of all the buildings necessary for occupation in any manner1 in form and position1 to give effect from any point of view in which the homestead may be seen4 ,general appearance should not be confined to one quarter alone1 but the house and its surroundings on every side should show completeness in design and harmony in execution2 and although humble1 and devoted to the meanest purposes1 a portion of these erections may be1 yet the character of utility or necessity which they maintain1 gives them an air of dignity1 if not of grace4 ,thus1 a house and out-buildings flanked with orchards1 or a wood1 on which they apparently fall back for support1 fills the eye at once with not only a beautiful group1 in themselves combined1 but associate the idea of repose1 of comfort1 and abundance--indispensable requisites to a perfect farm residence4 ,they also seem to connect the house and out-buildings with the fields beyond1 which are of necessity naked of trees1 and gradually spread the view abroad over the farm until it mingles with1 or is lost in the general landscape4 ,these remarks may seem too refined1 and as out of place here1 and trenching upon the subject of ,landscape ,gardening1 which is not designed to be a part1 or but an incidental one of the present work1 yet they are important in connection with the subject under discussion4 ,the proper disposition of trees and shrubbery around1 or in the vicinity of buildings is far too little understood1 although tree planting about our dwellings is a practice pretty general throughout our country4 ,nothing is more common than to see a man build a house1 perhaps in most elaborate and expensive style1 and then plant a row of trees close upon the front1 which when grown will shut it almost entirely out of view2 while he leaves the rear as bald and unprotected as if it were a barn or a horse-shed--as if in utter ignorance1 as he probably is1 that his house is more effectively set off by a flanking and background of tree and shrubbery1 than in front4 ,and this is called good taste6 ,let us examine it4 ,trees near a dwelling are desirable for shade2 shelter they do not afford except in masses1 which last is always better given to the house itself by a veranda4 ,immediately adjoining1 or within touching distance of a house1 trees create dampness1 more or less litter1 and frequently vermin4 ,they injure the walls and roofs by their continual shade and dampness4 ,they exclude the rays of the sun1 and prevent a free circulation of air4 ,therefore1 close to the house1 trees are absolutely pernicious1 to say nothing of excluding all its architectural effect from observation2 when1 if planted at proper distances1 they compose its finest ornaments4 ,if it be necessary to build in good taste at all1 it is quite as necessary that such good taste be kept in view throughout4 ,a country dwelling should always be a conspicuous object in its full character and outline1 from one or more prominent points of observation2 consequently all plantations of tree or shrubbery in its immediate vicinity should be considered as aids to show off the house and its appendages1 instead of becoming the principal objects of attraction in themselves4 ,their disposition should be such as to create a perfect and agreeable whole1 when seen in connection with the house itself4 ,they should also be so placed as to open the surrounding landscape to view in its most attractive features1 from the various parts of the dwelling4 ,much in the effective disposition of trees around the dwelling will thus depend upon the character of the country seen from it1 and which should control to a great extent their position4 ,a single tree1 of grand and stately dimensions1 will frequently give greater effect than the most studied plantations4 ,a ledge of rock1 in the clefts of which wild vines may nestle1 or around which a mass of shrubbery may cluster1 will add a charm to the dwelling which an elaborate cultivation would fail to bestow2 and the most negligent apparel of nature in a thousand ways may give a character which we might strive in vain to accomplish by our own invention4 ,in the efforts to embellish our dwellings or grounds1 the strong natural objects with which they are associated should be consulted1 always keeping in view an expression of the chief character to which the whole is applied4 ,,material ,,for ,,farm ,,buildings4 ,in a country like ours1 containing within its soils and upon its surface such an abundance and variety of building material1 the composition of our farm erections must depend in most cases upon the ability or the choice of the builder himself4 ,stone is the most durable1 in the long run the cheapest1 and as a consequence1 the best material which can be furnished for the walls of a dwelling4 ,with other farm buildings circumstances may govern differently2 still1 in many sections of the ,united ,states1 even stone cannot be obtained1 except at an expense and inconvenience altogether forbidding its use4 ,yet it is a happy relief that where stone is difficult1 or not at all to be obtained1 the best of clay for bricks1 is abundant2 and in almost all parts of our country1 even where building timber is scarce1 its transportation is so comparatively light1 and the facilities of removing it are so cheap1 that wood is accessible to every one4 ,hence we may indulge in almost every fitting style of architecture and arrangement1 to which either kind of these materials are best adapted4 ,we shall slightly discuss them as applicable to our purposes4 ,stone is found either on the surface1 or in quarries under ground4 ,on the surface they lie chiefly as bowlders of less or greater size1 usually of hard and durable kinds4 ,large bowlders may be either blasted1 or split with wedges into sufficiently available shapes to lay in walls with mortar2 or if small1 they may with a little extra labor1 be fitted by the aid of good mortar into equally substantial wall as the larger masses4 ,in quarries they are thrown out1 either by blasting or splitting in layers1 so as to form regular courses when laid up2 and all their varieties may1 unhammered1 except to strike off projecting points or angles1 be laid up with a sufficiently smooth face to give fine effect to a building4 ,thus1 when easily obtained1 aside from the greater advantages of their durability1 stone is as cheap in the first instance as lumber1 excepting in new districts of country where good building lumber is the chief article of production1 and cheaper than brick in any event4 ,stone requires no paint4 ,its color is a natural1 therefore an agreeable one1 be it usually what it may1 although some shades are more grateful to the eye than others2 yet it is always in harmony with natural objects1 and particularly so on the farm where everything ought to wear the most substantial appearance4 ,the outer walls of a stone house should always be firred off inside for lathing and plastering1 to keep them thoroughly dry4 ,without that1 the rooms are liable to dampness1 which would penetrate through the stone into the inside plastering unless cut off by an open space of air between4 ,bricks1 where stone is not found1 supply its place tolerably well4 ,when made of good clay1 rightly tempered with sand1 and well burned1 they will in a wall remain for centuries1 and as far as material is concerned1 answer all purposes4 ,brick walls may be thinner than stone walls1 but they equally require firring off for inside plastering1 and in addition1 they need the aid of paint quite as often as wood1 to give them an agreeable color--bricks themselves not usually being in the category of desirable colors or shades4 ,wood1 when abundant and easily obtained1 is worked with the greatest facility1 and on many accounts1 is the cheapest material1 for the time1 of which a building can be constructed4 ,but it is perishable4 ,it requires every few years a coat of paint1 and is always associated with the idea of decay4 ,yet wood may be moulded into an infinite variety of form to please the eye1 in the indulgence of any peculiar taste or fancy4 ,we cannot1 in the consideration of material for house-building therefore1 urge upon the farmer the adoption of either of the above named materials to the preference of another1 in any particular structure he may require2 but leave him to consult his own circumstances in regard to them1 as best he may4 ,but this we will say3 ,if it be possible1 never lay a cellar or underground wall of perishable material1 such as wood or soft bricks2 nor build with soft or unburnt bricks in a wall exposed to the weather anywhere2 nor with stone which is liable to crumble or disintegrate by the action of frost or water upon it4 ,we are aware that unburnt bricks have been strongly recommended for house-building in ,america2 but from observation1 we are fully persuaded that they are worthless for any permanent structure1 and if used1 will in the end prove a dead loss in their application4 ,cottages1 out-buildings1 and other cheap erections on the farm1 for the accommodation of laborers1 stock1 or crops1 may be made of wood1 where wood is the cheapest and most easily obtained2 and1 even taking its perishable nature into account1 it may be the most economical4 ,in their construction1 it may be simply a matter of calculation with him who needs them1 to calculate the first cost of any material he has at hand1 or may obtain1 and to that add the interest upon it1 the annual wear and tear1 the insurance1 and the period it may last1 to determine this matter to his entire satisfaction--always provided he have the means at hand to do either4 ,but other considerations generally control the ,american farmer4 ,his pocket is apt more often to be pinched1 than his choice is to be at fault2 and this weighty argument compels him into the make shift system1 which perhaps in its results1 provided the main chance be attained1 is quite as advantageous to his interests as the other4 ,as a general remark1 all buildings should show for themselves1 what they are built of4 ,let stone be stone2 bricks show on their own account2 and of all things1 put no counterfeit by way of plaster1 stucco1 or other false pretence other than paint1 or a durable wash upon wood3 it is a miserable affectation always1 and of no possible use whatever4 ,all counterfeit of any kind as little becomes the buildings of the farmer1 as the gilded pinchbeck watch would fit the finished attire of a gentleman4 ,before submitting the several designs proposed for this work1 it may be remarked1 that in addressing them to a climate strictly ,american1 we have in every instance adopted the wide1 steeply-pitched roof1 with broad eaves1 gables and cornices1 as giving protection1 shade1 and shelter to the walls2 thus keeping them dry and in good preservation1 and giving that well housed1 and comfortable expression1 so different from the stiff1 pinched1 and tucked-up look in which so many of the haberdasher-built houses of the present day exult4 ,we give some examples of the hipped roof1 because they are convenient and cheap in their construction2 and we also throw into the designs a lateral direction to the roofs of the wings1 or connecting parts of the building4 ,this is sometimes done for effect in architectural appearance1 and sometimes for the economy and advantage of the building itself4 ,where roofs thus intersect or connect with a side wall1 the connecting gutters should be made of copper1 zinc1 lead1 galvanized iron1 or tin1 into which the shingles1 if they be covered with that material1 should be laid so as to effectually prevent leakage4 ,the eave gutters should be of copper1 zinc1 lead1 galvanized iron or tin1 also1 and placed at least one foot back from the edge of the roof1 and lead the water into conductors down the wall into the cistern or elsewhere1 as may be required4 ,if the water be not needed1 and the roof be wide over the walls1 there is no objection to let it pass off naturally1 if it be no inconvenience to the ground below1 and can run off1 or be absorbed into the ground without detriment to the cellar walls4 ,all this must be subject to the judgment of the proprietor himself4 ,,outside ,,color4 ,we are not among those who cast off1 and on a sudden condemn1 as out of all good taste1 the time-honored white house with its green blinds1 often so tastefully gleaming out from beneath the shade of summer trees2 nor do we doggedly adhere to it1 except when in keeping1 by contrast or otherwise1 with everything around it4 ,for a century past white has been the chief color of our wooden houses1 and often so of brick ones1 in the ,united ,states4 ,this color has been supposed to be strong and durable1 being composed chiefly of white lead2 and as it reflected the rays of the sun instead of absorbing them1 as some of the darker colors do1 it was thus considered a better preserver of the weather-boarding from the cracks which the fervid heat of the sun is apt to make upon it1 than the darker colors4 ,white1 consequently1 has always been considered1 until within a few years past1 as a fitting and tasteful color for dwellings1 both in town and country4 ,a new school of taste in colors has risen1 however1 within a few years past1 among us2 about the same time1 too1 that the recent gingerbread and beadwork style of country building was introduced4 ,and these were both1 as all new things are apt to be1 carried to extremes4 ,instead of toning down the glare of the white into some quiet1 neutral shade1 as a straw color2 a drab of different hues--always an agreeable and appropriate color for a dwelling1 particularly when the door and window casings are dressed with a deeper or lighter shade1 as those shades predominate in the main body of the house2 or a natural and soft wood color1 which also may be of various shades2 or even the warm russet hue of some of our rich stones--quite appropriate1 too1 as applied to wood1 or bricks--the fashion must be followed without either rhyme or reason1 and hundreds of our otherwise pretty and imposing country houses have been daubed over with the dirtiest1 gloomiest pigment imaginable1 making every habitation which it touched look more like a funeral appendage than a cheerful1 life-enjoying home4 ,we candidly say that we have no sort of affection for such sooty daubs4 ,the fashion which dictates them is a barbarous1 false1 and arbitrary fashion2 void of all natural taste in its inception2 and to one who has a cheerful1 life-loving spirit about him1 such colors have no more fitness on his dwelling or out-buildings1 than a tomb would have in his lawn or dooryard4 ,locality1 amplitude of the buildings1 the purpose to which they are applied--every consideration connected with them1 in fact1 should be consulted1 as to color4 ,stone will give its own color2 which1 by the way1 some prodigiously smart folks paint--quite as decorous or essential1 as to paint the lily4 ,brick sometimes must be painted1 but it should be of a color in keeping with its character1--of substance and dignity2 not a counterfeit of stone1 or to cheat him who looks upon it into a belief that it may be marble1 or other unfounded pretension4 ,a warm russet is most appropriate for brick-work of any kind of color--the color of a russet apple1 or undressed leather--shades that comport with ,milton's beautiful idea of ,russet lawns and fallows gray4 ,red and yellow are both too glaring1 and slate1 or lead colors too somber and cold4 ,it is1 in fact1 a strong argument in favor of bricks in building1 where they can be had as cheap as stone or wood1 that any color can be given to them which the good taste of the builder may require1 in addition to their durability1 which1 when made of good material1 and properly burned1 is quite equal to stone4 ,in a wooden structure one may play with his fancy in the way of color1 minding in the operation1 that he does not play the mountebank1 and like the clown in the circus1 make his tattooed tenement the derision of men of correct taste1 as the other does his burlesque visage the ridicule of his auditors4 ,a wooden country house1 together with its out-buildings1 should always be of a cheerful and softly-toned color--a color giving a feeling of warmth and comfort2 nothing glaring or flashy about it4 ,and yet1 such buildings should not1 in their color1 any more than in their architecture1 appear as if imitating either stone or brick4 ,wood1 of itself1 is light4 ,one cannot build a heavy house of wood1 as compared with brick or stone4 ,therefore all imitation or device which may lead to a belief that it may be other than what it really is1 is nothing less than a fraud--not criminal1 we admit1 but none the less a fraud upon good taste and architectural truth4 ,it is true that in this country we cannot afford to place in stone and brick buildings those ornate trimmings and appendages which1 perhaps1 if economy were not to be consulted1 might be more durably constructed of stone1 but at an expense too great to be borne by those of moderate means4 ,yet it is not essential that such appendages should be of so expensive material4 ,the very purposes to which they are applied1 as a parapet1 a railing1 a balustrade1 a portico1 piazza1 or porch2 all these may be of wood1 even when the material of the house proper is of the most durable kind2 and by being painted in keeping with the building itself1 produce a fine effect1 and do no violence to good taste or the most fastidious propriety4 ,they may be even sanded to a color1 and grained1 stained1 or otherwise brought to an identity1 almost1 with the material of the house1 and be quite proper1 because they simply are appendages of convenience1 necessity1 or luxury1 to the building itself1 and may be taken away without injuring or without defacing the main structure4 ,they are not a material part of the building itself1 but reared for purposes which may be dispensed with4 ,it is a matter of taste or preference1 that they were either built there1 or that they remain permanently afterward1 and of consequence1 proper that they be of wood4 ,yet they should not imitate stone or brick4 ,they should still show that they are of wood1 but in color and outside preservation denote that they are appendages to a stone or brick house1 by complying with the proper shades in color which predominate in the building itself1 and become their own subordinate character4 ,not being a professional painter1 or compounder of colors1 we shall offer no receipts or specifics for painting or washing buildings4 ,climate affects the composition of both paints and washes1 and those who are competent in this line1 are the proper persons to dictate their various compositions2 and we do but common justice to the skill and intelligence of our numerous mechanics1 when we recommend to those who contemplate building1 to apply forthwith to such as are masters of their trade for all the information they require on the various subjects connected with it4 ,one who sets out to be his own architect1 builder1 and painter1 is akin to the lawyer in the proverb1 who has a fool for his client1 when pleading his own case1 and quite as apt to have quack in them all4 ,hints1 general outlines1 and oftentimes matters of detail in interior convenience1 and many other minor affairs may be given by the proprietor1 when he is neither a professional architect1 mechanic1 or even an amateur2 but in all things affecting the substantial and important parts of his buildings1 he should consult those who are proficient and experienced in the department on which he consults them4 ,and it may perhaps be added that none professing to be such1 are competent1 unless well instructed1 and whose labors have met the approbation of those competent to judge4 ,there is one kind of color1 prevailing to a great extent in many parts of our country1 particularly the northern and eastern1 which1 in its effect upon any one having an eye to a fitness of things in country buildings1 is a monstrous perversion of good taste4 ,that is the glaring red1 made up of ,venetian red1 ochre1 or ,spanish brown1 with doors and windows touched off with white4 ,the only apology we have ever heard given for such a barbarism was1 that it is a good1 strong1 and lasting color4 ,we shall not go into an examination as to that fact1 but simply answer1 that if it be so1 there are other colors1 not more expensive1 which are equally strong and durable1 and infinitely more tasteful and fitting4 ,there can be nothing less comporting with the simplicity of rural scenery1 than a glaring red color on a building4 ,it connects with nothing natural about it2 it neither fades into any surrounding shade of soil or vegetation1 and must of necessity1 stand out in its own bold and unshrouded impudence1 a perfect ,ishmaelite in color1 and a perversion of every thing harmonious in the design4 ,we eschew red1 therefore1 from every thing in rural architecture4 ,a ,,short ,,chapter ,,on ,,taste4 ,the compound words1 or terms good-taste and bad-taste have been used in the preceding pages without1 perhaps1 sufficiently explaining what is meant by the word taste1 other than as giving vague and unsatisfactory terms to the reader in measuring the subject in hand4 ,taste is a term universally applied in criticism of the fine-arts1 such as painting1 sculpture1 architecture1 c41 c41 of which there are many schools--of taste1 we mean--some of them1 perhaps natural1 but chiefly conventional1 and all more or less arbitrary4 ,the proverb1 there is no accounting for taste1 is as old as the aforesaid schools themselves1 and defines perfectly our own estimate of the common usage of the term4 ,as we have intended to use it1 ,webster defines the word taste to be the faculty of discerning beauty1 order1 congruity1 proportion1 symmetry1 or whatever constitutes excellence2 style2 manner with respect to what is pleasing4 ,with this understanding1 therefore2 a fitness to the purpose for which a thing is intended--got up in a manner agreeable to the eye and the mind--preserving also a harmony between its various parts and uses2 pleasing to the eye1 as addressed to the sense1 and satisfactory to the mind1 as appropriate to the object for which it is required2--these constitute good-taste1 as the term is here understood4 ,the term style1 also1 is the manner or form of a thing4 ,when we say1 that is a stylish house1 it should mean that it is in1 or approaches some particular style of building recognized by the schools4 ,it may or may not be in accordance with good taste1 and is1 consequently1 subject to the same capricious test in its government4 ,yet styles are subject to arrangement1 and are classified in the several schools of architecture1 either as distinct specimens of acknowledged orders1 as the ,doric1 the ,ionic1 the ,corinthian1 in ,grecian architecture1 or1 the ,tuscan and ,composite1 which are1 more distinctly1 styles of ,roman architecture4 ,to these may be added the ,egyptian1 the most massive of all2 and either of them1 in their proper character1 grand and imposing when applied to public buildings or extensive structures1 but altogether inapplicable1 from their want of lightness and convenience1 to country or even city dwellings4 ,other styles--not exactly orders--of architecture1 such as the ,italian1 the ,romanesque1 the ,gothic1 the ,swiss1 with their modifications--all of which admit of a variety of departures from fixed rules1 not allowed in the more rigid orders--may be adapted in a variety of ways1 to the most agreeable and harmonious arrangement in architectural effect1 for dwellings and structures appurtenant to them4 ,the ,italian style of architecture1 modified somewhat in pretension and extent1 is admirably adapted to most parts of the ,united ,states4 ,its general lightness1 openness1 and freedom gives a wide range of choice2 and its wings1 verandas1 and terraces1 stretching off in any and almost every direction desired1 from the main building1 make it exceedingly appropriate for general use4 ,the modern1 or rural ,gothic1 branching off sometimes into what is termed the ,english cottage style1 and in many instances blending so intimately with the ,italian1 as hardly to mark the line of division1 is also a beautiful arrangement of building for country dwellings4 ,these1 in ruder structures1 may also be carried into the ,rustic--not a style proper1 in itself--but so termed as approximating in execution or pretension to either of the above2 while the ,swiss1 with its hanging roofs1 and sheltering eaves may be frequently brought in aid to show out the rustic form in more completeness1 and in greater harmony with surrounding objects1 than either of the others4 ,for farm houses1 either of these arrangements or departures from a set and positive style1 are better fitted than any which we have noticed2 and in some one or other of the modifications named1 we have applied them in the examples submitted in this work4 ,they may not therefore be viewed as distinct delineations of an order of architecture1 or style proper1 even2 but as a mode appropriate to the object required4 ,and so long as they do not absolutely conflict with true taste1 or in their construction commit a barbarism upon any acknowledged system of architecture1 in any of its modifications1 we hazard no impropriety in introducing them for the imitation of country builders4 ,congruity with the objects to which it is applied should be the chief merit of any structure whatever2 and so long as that object be attained1 good taste is not violated1 and utility is fully subserved4 ,intimately connected with this subject1 in rural buildings1 is the shape of the structure4 ,many of the designs recently introduced for the imitation of builders1 are full of angles and all sorts of zig-zag lines1 which1 although they may add to the variety of style1 or relieve the monotony of straight and continuous lines1 are carried to a needless excess1 expensive in their construction1 and entail infinite trouble upon the owner or occupant1 in the repairs they subject him to1 in the leakages continually occurring1 against which last1 either of wind or rain1 it is almost impossible to guard4 ,and what1 let us ask1 are the benefits of a parcel of needless gables and peaked windows1 running up like owl's ears1 above the eaves of a house1 except to create expense1 and invite leakage and decay8 ,if in appearance1 they provoke an association of that kind1 they certainly are not in good taste2 and a foot or two of increased height in a wall1 or a low window sufficient for the purpose intended1 would give a tone of dignity1 of comfort1 and real utility1 which a whole covey of such pretentious things could not4 ,all such trumpery should be scouted from the dwelling house of the farmer1 and left to the special indulgence of the town builder4 ,a square form of house will afford more area within a given line of wall than any other sensible form which may be adopted4 ,yet a square house is not so agreeable to the eye as an oblong4 ,thus1 a house should stand somewhat broader on one front than on another4 ,it should also be relieved from an appearance of monotony and tameness1 by one or more wings2 and such wings should1 at their junction with the main building1 retreat or advance a sufficient distance from a continuous line1 as to relieve it effectually from an appearance of stiffness1 and show a different character of occupation from that of the main structure4 ,the front of a house should be the most imposing and finished in its architecture of any one of its parts2 and unless some motive of greater convenience control otherwise1 its entrance the most highly wrought1 as indicating the luxury of the establishment--for even the humblest habitations have their luxuries4 ,the side rooms1 or more usually occupied apartments1 require less pretension in both architectural effect and finish1 and should wear a more subdued appearance2 while the kitchen section1 and from that1 the several grades of apartments stretching beyond it1 should distinctly show that they are subservient in their character1 and wear a style and finish accordingly4 ,thus1 each part of the house speaks for itself4 ,it is its own finger-board1 pointing the stranger to its various accommodation1 as plainly as if written on its walls1 and saying as significantly as dumb walls can do1 that here dwells a well regulated family1 who have a parlor for their friends2 a library1 or sitting-room for their own leisure and comfort2 an ample bedroom and nursery1 for the parents and the little ones2 a kitchen for the cooking2 and a scullery and closets1 and all the other etceteras which belong to a perfect family homestead4 ,and so with the grounds4 ,the lawn or dooryard1 should be the best kept ground on the place4 ,the most conspicuous part of the garden should show its shrubbery and its flowers4 ,the side or rear approach should be separated from the lawn1 and show its constant business occupation1 and openly lead off to where men and farm stock meet on common ground1 devoted to every purpose which the farm requires4 ,such arrangement would be complete in all its parts1 satisfactory1 and lasting4 ,tinsel ornament1 or gewgaw decoration should never be permitted on any building where the sober enjoyment of agricultural life is designed4 ,it can never add consideration or dignity to the retired gentleman even1 and least of all should it be indulged in by the farmer1 dwelling on his own cultivated acres4 ,,the ,,construction ,,of ,,cellars4 ,every farm house and farm cottage1 where a family of any size occupy the latter1 should have a good1 substantial stone-walled cellar beneath it4 ,no room attached to the farm house is more profitable1 in its occupation1 than the cellar4 ,it is useful for storing numberless articles which are necessary to be kept warm and dry in winter1 as well as cool in summer1 of which the farmer is well aware4 ,the walls of a cellar should rise at least one1 to two1 or even three feet above the level of the ground surrounding it1 according to circumstances1 and the rooms in it well ventilated by two or more sliding sash windows in each1 according to size1 position1 and the particular kind of storage for which it is required1 so that a draft of pure air can pass through1 and give it thorough ventilation at all times4 ,it should also be at least seven and a half feet high in the clear2 and if it be even nine feet1 that is not too much4 ,if the soil be compact1 or such as will hold water1 it should be thoroughly drained from the lowest point or corner1 and the drain always kept open2 7a stone drain is the best and most durable17 and if floored with a coat of flat1 or rubble stones1 well set in good hydraulic cement--or cement alone1 when the stone cannot be obtained--all the better4 ,this last will make it rat proof4 ,for the purpose of avoiding these destructive creatures1 the foundation stones in the wall should be brought to a joint1 and project at least six inches on each side1 from the wall itself1 when laid upon this bottom course2 as the usual manner of rats is to burrow in a nearly perpendicular direction from the surface1 by the side of the wall1 when intending to undermine it4 ,on arriving at the bottom1 if circumvented by the projecting stones1 they will usually abandon their work4 ,plank of hard wood1 or hard burnt bricks1 may answer this purpose when stone cannot be had4 ,all cellar walls should be laid in good lime mortar1 or if that be not practicable1 they should be well pointed with it4 ,this keeps them in place1 and renders them less liable to the ingress of water and vermin4 ,the thickness of wall should not be less than fifteen to eighteen inches1 in any event1 when of stone2 and if the house walls above be built of stone or brick1 two feet is better2 and in all cases the cellar wall should be full three inches thicker than the wall resting upon it4 ,in the cellar of every farm house there should be an outside door1 with a flight of steps by which to pass roots and other bulky or heavy articles1 to which a wagon or cart may approach1 either to receive or discharge them4 ,this is indispensable4 ,every out-building upon the farm1 let it be devoted to what purpose it may1 having a wooden floor on the ground story1 should be set up sufficiently high from the surface to admit a cat or small terrier dog beneath such floor1 with openings for them to pass in and out1 or these hiding places will become so many rat warrens upon the premises1 and prove most destructive to the grain and poultry4 ,nothing can be more annoying to the farmer than these vermin1 and a trifling outlay in the beginning1 will exclude them from the foundations and walls of all buildings4 ,care1 therefore1 should be taken to leave no haunt for their convenience4 ,with these suggestions the ingenuity of every builder will provide sufficient guards against the protection of vermin beneath his buildings4 ,,ventilation ,,of ,,houses4 ,pure air1 and enough of it1 is the cheapest blessing one can enjoy2 and to deny one's self so indispensable an element of good health1 is little short of criminal neglect1 or the sheerest folly4 ,yet thousands who build at much needless expense1 for the protection of their health and that of their families1 as they allege1 and no doubt suppose1 by neglecting the simplest of all contrivances1 in the work of ventilation1 invite disease and infirmity1 from the very pains they so unwittingly take to ward off such afflictions4 ,a man1 be he farmer or of other profession1 finding himself prosperous in life1 sets about the very sensible business of building a house for his own accommodation4 ,looking back1 perhaps1 to the days of his boyhood1 in a severe climate1 he remembers the not very highly-finished tenement of his father1 and the wide1 open fireplace which1 with its well piled logs1 was scarcely able to warm the large living-room1 where the family were wont to huddle in winter4 ,he possibly remembers1 with shivering sympathy1 the sprinkling of snow which he was accustomed to find upon his bed as he awaked in the morning1 that had found its way through the frail casing of his chamber window--but in the midst of all which he grew up with a vigorous constitution1 a strong arm1 and a determined spirit4 ,he is resolved that his children shall encounter no such hardships1 and that himself and his excellent helpmate shall suffer no such inconvenience as his own parents had done1 who now perhaps1 are enjoying a strong and serene old age1 in their old-fashioned1 yet to them not uncomfortable tenement4 ,he therefore determines to have a snug1 close house1 where the cold cannot penetrate4 ,he employs all his ingenuity to make every joint an air-tight fit2 the doors must swing to an air-tight joint2 the windows set into air-tight frames2 and to perfect the catalogue of his comforts1 an air-tight stove is introduced into every occupied room which1 perchance1 if he can afford it1 are further warmed and poisoned by the heated flues of an air-tight furnace in his air-tight cellar4 ,in short1 it is an air-tight concern throughout4 ,his family breathe an air-tight atmosphere2 they eat their food cooked in an air-tight kitchen witch1 of the latest premium pattern2 and thus they start1 father1 mother1 children1 all on the high road--if persisted in--to a galloping consumption1 which sooner or later conducts them to an air-tight dwelling1 not soon to be changed4 ,if such melancholy catastrophe be avoided1 colds1 catarrhs1 headaches1 and all sorts of bodily afflictions shortly make their appearance1 and they wonder what is the matter6 ,they live so snug6 their house is so warm6 they sleep so comfortable6 how can it be8 ,true1 in the morning the air of their sleeping-rooms feels close1 but then if a window is opened it will chill the rooms1 and that will give them colds4 ,what can be the matter8 ,the poor creatures never dream that they have been breathing1 for hour after hour1 decomposed air1 charged with poisonous gases1 which cannot escape through the tight walls1 or over the tight windows1 or through the tight stoves2 and thus they keep on in the sure course to infirmity1 disease1 and premature death--all for the want of a little ventilation6 ,better indeed1 that instead of all this painstaking1 a pane were knocked out of every window1 or a panel out of every door in the house4 ,we are not disposed to talk about cellar furnaces for heating a farmer's house4 ,they have little to do in the farmer's inventory of goods at all1 unless it be to give warmth to the hall--and even then a snug box stove1 with its pipe passing into the nearest chimney is1 in most cases1 the better appendage4 ,fuel is usually abundant with the farmer2 and where so1 its benefits are much better dispensed in open stoves or fireplaces1 than in heating furnaces or air-tights4 ,we have slightly discussed this subject of firing in the farm house1 in a previous page1 but while in the vein1 must crave another word4 ,a farmer's house should look hospitable as well as be hospitable1 both outside and in2 and the broadest1 most cheerful look of hospitality within doors1 in cold weather1 is an open fire in the chimney fireplace1 with the blazing wood upon it4 ,there is no mistake about it4 ,it thaws you out1 if cold2 it stirs you up1 if drooping2 and is the welcome1 winning introduction to the good cheer that is to follow4 ,a short time ago we went to pay a former town friend a visit4 ,he had removed out to a snug little farm1 where he could indulge his agricultural and horticultural tastes1 yet still attend to his town engagements1 and enjoy the quietude of the country4 ,we rang the door bell4 ,a servant admitted us2 and leaving overcoat and hat in the hall1 we entered a lone room1 with an air-tight stove1 looking as black and solemn as a ,turkish eunuch upon us1 and giving out about the same degree of genial warmth as the said eunuch would have expressed had he been there--an emasculated warming machine truly6 ,on the floor was a ,wilton carpet1 too fine to stand on2 around the room were mahogany sofas and mahogany chairs1 all too fine to sit on--at all events to rest one upon if he were fatigued4 ,the blessed light of day was shut out by crimson and white curtains1 held up by gilded arrows2 and upon the mantle piece1 and on the center and side tables were all sorts of gimcracks1 costly and worthless4 ,in short1 there was no comfort about the whole concern4 ,hearing our friend coming up from his dining-room below1 where too1 was his cellar kitchen--that most abominable of all appendages to a farm house1 or to any other country house1 for that matter--we buttoned our coat up close and high1 thrust our hands into our pockets1 and walked the room1 as he entered4 ,glad to see you--glad to see you1 my friend6 said he1 in great joy2 but dear me1 why so buttoned up1 as if you were going8 ,what's the matter8 ,my good sir1 we replied1 you asked us to come over and see you1 'a plain farmer1' and 'take a quiet family dinner with you4' ,we have done so2 and here find you with all your town nonsense about you4 ,no fire to warm by2 no seat to rest in2 no nothing like a farm or farmer about you2 and it only needs your charming better half1 whom we always admired1 when she lived in town1 to take down her enameled harp1 and play ',in fairy bowers by moonlight hours1' to convince one that instead of ruralizing in the country1 you had gone a peg higher in town residence6 ,no1 no1 we'll go down to farmer ,jocelyn's1 our old schoolfellow1 and take a dinner of bacon and cabbage with him4 ,if he does occupy a one-story house1 he lives up in sunshine1 has an open fireplace1 with a blazing wood fire on a chilly day1 and his 'latch string is always out4' ,our friend was petrified--astonished6 ,we meant to go it rather strong upon him1 but still kept a frank1 good-humored face1 that showed him no malice4 ,he began to think he was not exactly in character1 and essayed to explain4 ,we listened to his story4 ,his good wife came in1 and all together1 we had a long talk of their family and farming arrangements2 how they had furnished their house2 and how they proposed to live2 but wound up with a sad story1 that their good farming neighbors didn't call on them the second time--kind1 civil people they appeared1 too--and while they were in1 acted as though afraid to sit down1 and afraid to stand up2--in short1 they were dreadfully embarrassed2 for why1 our friends couldn't tell1 but now began to understand it4 ,well1 my good friends1 said we1 you have altogether mistaken country life in the outset4 ,to live on a farm1 it is neither necessary to be vulgar1 nor clownish1 nor to affect ignorance4 ,simplicity is all you require1 in manners1 and equal simplicity in your furniture and appointments4 ,now just turn all this nonsense in furniture and room dressing out of doors1 and let some of your town friends have it4 ,get some simple1 comfortable1 cottage furniture1 much better for all purposes1 than this1 and you will settle down into quiet1 natural country life before you are aware of it1 and all will go 'merry as a marriage bell' with you1 in a little time--for they both loved the country1 and were truly excellent people4 ,we continued1 ,i came to spend the day and the night1 and ,i will stay2 and this evening we'll go down to your neighbor ,jocelyn's2 and you1 ,mrs4 ,n----1 shall go with us2 and we will see how quietly and comfortably he and his family take the world in a farmer's way4 ,we did go2 not in carriage and livery1 but walked the pleasant half mile that lay between them2 the exercise of which gave us all activity and good spirits4 ,jocelyn was right glad to see us1 and ,patty1 his staid and sober wife1 with whom we had romped many an innocent hour in our childhood days1 was quite as glad as he4 ,but they looked a little surprised that such great folks as their new neighbors1 should drop in so unceremoniously1 and into their common keeping room1 too1 to chat away an evening4 ,however1 the embarrassment soon wore off4 ,we talked of farming2 we talked of the late elections2 we talked of the fruit trees and the strawberry beds2 and ,mrs4 ,jocelyn1 who was a pattern of good housekeeping1 told ,mrs4 ,n---- how she made her apple jellies1 and her currant tarts1 and cream cheeses2 and before we left they had exchanged ever so many engagements1--,mrs4 ,patty to learn her new friend to do half a dozen nice little matters of household pickling and preserving2 while she1 in turn1 was to teach ,nancy and ,fanny1 ,patty's two rosy-cheeked daughters1 almost as pretty as their mother was at their own age1 to knit a bead bag and work a fancy chair seat6 ,and then we had apples and nuts1 all of the very best--for ,jocelyn was a rare hand at grafting and managing his fruit trees1 and knew the best apples all over the country4 ,we had1 indeed1 a capital time6 ,to cut the story short1 the next spring our friend sent his fancy furniture to auction1 and provided his house with simple cottage furnishings1 at less than half the cost of the other2 which both he and his wife afterward declared was infinitely better1 for all house-keeping purposes4 ,he also threw a neat wing on to the cottage1 for an upper kitchen and its offices1 and they now live like sensible country folks2 and with their healthy1 frolicksome children1 are worth the envy of all the dyspeptic1 town-fed people in existence4 ,a long digression1 truly2 but so true a story1 and one so apt to our subject can not well be omitted4 ,but what has all this to do with ventilation8 ,we'll tell you4 ,jocelyn's house was ventilated as it should be2--for he was a methodical1 thoughtful man1 who planned and built his house himself--not the mechanical work1 but directed it throughout1 and saw that it was faithfully done2 and that put us in mind of the story4 ,to be perfect in its ventilation1 every room in the house1 even to the closets1 should be so arranged that a current of air may pass through1 to keep it pure and dry4 ,in living rooms1 fresh air in sufficient quantity may usually be admitted through the doors4 ,in sleeping rooms and closets1 when doors may not be left open1 one or more of the lower panels of the door may be filled by a rolling blind1 opening more or less1 at pleasure2 or a square or oblong opening for that purpose1 may be left in the base board1 at the floor1 and covered by a wire netting4 ,and in all rooms1 living apartments1 as well as these1 an opening of at least sixty-four square inches should be made in the wall1 near the ceiling1 and leading into an air flue1 to pass into the garret4 ,such opening may be filled by a rolling blind1 or wire screen1 as below1 and closed or kept open1 at pleasure4 ,some builders prefer an air register to be placed in the chimney1 over the fireplace or stove1 near the ceiling2 but the liability to annoyance1 by smoke escaping through it into the room1 if not thoroughly done1 is an objection to this latter method1 and the other may be made1 in its construction1 rather ornamental than otherwise1 in appearance4 ,all such details as these should be planned when the building is commenced1 so that the several flues may be provided as the building proceeds4 ,in a stone or brick house1 a small space may be left in the walls1 against which these air registers may be required2 and for inner rooms1 or closets1 they may pass off into the openings of the partitions1 and so up into the garret2 from which apertures of escape may be left1 or made at the gables1 under the roof1 or by a blind in a window4 ,for the admission of air to the first floor of the house1 a special opening through the walls1 for that purpose1 can hardly be necessary2 as the doors leading outside are usually opened often enough for such object4 ,one of the best ventilated houses we have ever seen1 is that owned and occupied by ,samuel ,cloon1 ,esq41 of ,cincinnati4 ,it is situated on his farm1 three miles out of the city1 and in its fine architectural appearance and finished appointments1 as a rural residence and first-class farm house1 is not often excelled4 ,every closet is ventilated through rolling blinds in the door panels2 and foul air1 either admitted or created within them1 is passed off at once by flues near the ceiling overhead1 passing into conductors leading off through the garret4 ,where chambers are carried into the roof of a house1 to any extent1 they are sometimes incommoded by the summer heat which penetrates them1 conducted by the chamber ceiling overhead4 ,this heat can best be obviated by inserting a small window at each opposite peak of the garret1 by which the outside air can circulate through1 above the chambers1 and so pass off the heated air1 which will continually ascend4 ,all this is a simple matter1 for which any builder can provide1 without particular expense or trouble4 ,,interior ,,accommodation ,,of ,,houses4 ,ground1 in the country1 being the cheapest item which the farmer can devote to building purposes1 his object should be to spread over1 rather than to go deeply into it1 or climb high in the air above it4 ,we repudiate cellar kitchens1 or under-ground rooms for house work1 altogether1 as being little better than a nuisance--dark1 damp1 unhealthy1 inconvenient1 and expensive4 ,the several rooms of a farm dwelling house should be compact in arrangement1 and contiguous as may be to the principally-occupied apartments4 ,such arrangement is cheaper1 more convenient1 and labor-saving2 and in addition1 more in accordance with a good and correct taste in the outward appearance of the house itself4 ,the general introduction of cooking stoves1 and other stoves and apparatus for warming houses1 within the last twenty years1 which we acknowledge to be a great acquisition in comfort as well as in convenience and economy1 has been carried to an extreme1 not only in shutting up and shutting out the time-honored open fireplace and its broad hearthstone1 with their hallowed associations1 but also in prejudice to the health of those who so indiscriminately use them1 regardless of other arrangements which ought to go with them4 ,a farm house should never be built without an ample1 open fireplace in its kitchen1 and other principally occupied rooms2 and in all rooms where stoves are placed1 and fires are daily required1 the open ,franklin should take place of the close or air-tight stove1 unless extraordinary ventilation to such rooms be adopted also4 ,the great charm of the farmer's winter evening is the open fireside1 with its cheerful blaze and glowing embers2 not wastefully expended1 but giving out that genial warmth and comfort which1 to those who are accustomed to its enjoyment1 is a pleasure not made up by any invention whatever2 and although the cooking stove or range be required--which1 in addition to the fireplace1 we would always recommend1 to lighten female labor--it can be so arranged as not to interfere with the enjoyment or convenience of the open fire4 ,in the construction of the chimneys which appear in the plans submitted1 the great majority of them--particularly those for northern latitudes--are placed in the interior of the house4 ,they are less liable to communicate fire to the building1 and assist greatly in warming the rooms through which they pass4 ,in southern houses they are not so necessary1 fires being required for a much less period of the year4 ,yet even there they may be oftentimes properly so placed4 ,where holes1 for the passage of stovepipes through floors1 partitions1 or into chimneys1 are made1 stone1 earthen1 or iron thimbles should be inserted2 and1 except in the chimneys1 such holes should be at least one to two inches larger than the pipe itself4 ,the main flues of the chimney conducting off the smoke of the different fires1 should be built separate1 and kept apart by a partition of one brick in thickness1 and carried out independently1 as in no other way will they rid the house of smoky rooms4 ,illustration ,an illustration in point3 ,fifteen years ago we purchased and removed into a most substantial and well-built stone house1 the chimneys of which were constructed with open fireplaces1 and the flues carried up separately to the top1 where they all met upon the same level surface1 as chimneys in past times usually were built1 thus4 ,every fireplace in the house 7and some of them had stoves in17 smoked intolerably2 so much so1 that when the wind was in some quarters the fires had to be put out in every room but the kitchen1 which1 as good luck would have it1 smoked less--although it did smoke there--than the others4 ,after balancing the matter in our own mind some time1 whether we should pull down and rebuild the chimneys altogether1 or attempt an alteration2 as we had given but little thought to the subject of chimney draft1 and to try an experiment was the cheapest1 we set to work a bricklayer1 who1 under our direction1 simply built over each discharge of the several flues a separate top of fifteen inches high1 in this wise3 ,the remedy was perfect4 ,we have had no smoke in the house since1 blow the wind as it may1 on any and all occasions4 ,the chimneys can't smoke2 and the whole expense for four chimneys1 with their twelve flues1 was not twenty dollars6 ,the remedy was in giving each outlet a distinct current of air all around1 and on every side of it4 ,illustration ,,chimney ,,tops4 ,nothing adds more to the outward expression of a dwelling1 than the style of its chimneys4 ,we have just shown that independent chimney tops pass off their smoke more perfectly1 than when only partitioned inside to the common point of outlet4 ,aside from the architectural beauty which a group of chimney flues adds to the building1 we have seen that they are really useful1 beyond the formal1 square-sided piles so common throughout the country4 ,they denote good cheer1 social firesides1 and a generous hospitality within--features which should always mark the country dwelling2 and more particularly that of the farmer4 ,the style and arrangement of these chimney groups may be various1 as comporting with the design of the house itself2 and any good architect can arrange them as fitted to such design4 ,our illustrations will show them of different kinds1 which are generally cheap in construction1 and simple1 yet expressive in their arrangement4 ,,preliminary ,,to ,,our ,,designs4 ,we have discussed with tolerable fullness1 the chief subjects connected with farm buildings--sufficiently so1 we trust1 to make ourselves understood as desiring to combine utility with commendable ornament in all that pertains to them4 ,the object has been1 thus far1 to give hints1 rather than models1 in description4 ,but as the point to which we have endeavored to arrive will be but imperfectly understood without illustration1 we shall submit a few plans of houses and outbuildings1 as carrying out more fully our ideas4 ,we are quite aware that different forms or fashions of detail and finish1 to both outside and inside work1 prevail among builders in different sections of the ,united ,states4 ,some of these fashions are the result of climate1 some of conventional taste1 and some of education4 ,with them we are not disposed to quarrel4 ,in many cases they are immaterial to the main objects of the work1 and so long as they please the taste or partialities of those adopting them1 are of little consequence4 ,there are1 however1 certain matters of principle1 both in general construction and in the detail of finish1 which should not be disregarded2 and these1 in the designs submitted1 and in the explanations which follow1 will be fully discussed1 each in its place4 ,the particular form or style of work we have not directed1 because1 as before remarked1 we are no professional builder1 and of course free from the dogmas which are too apt to be inculcated in the professional schools and workshops4 ,we give a wide berth1 and a free toleration in all such matters1 and are not disposed to raise a hornet's nest about our ears by interfering in matters where every tyro of the drafting board and work-bench assumes to be1 and probably may be1 our superior4 ,all minor subjects we are free to leave to the skill and ingenuity of the builder--who1 fortunately for the country1 is found in almost every village and hamlet of the land4 ,modes and styles of finish1 both inside and outside of buildings1 change2 and that so frequently1 that what is laid down as the reigning fashion to-day1 may be superseded by another fashion of to-morrow--immaterial in themselves1 only1 and not affecting the shape1 arrangement1 and accommodation of the building itself1 which in these1 must ever maintain their relation with the use for which it is intended4 ,the northern dwelling1 with its dependencies and appointments1 requires a more compact1 snug1 and connected arrangement than that of the south2 while one in the middle states may assume a style of arrangement between them both1 each fitted for their own climate and country1 and in equally good taste4 ,the designs we are about to submit are intended to be such as may be modified to any section of the country1 although some of them are made for extremes of north and south1 and are so distinguished4 ,another object we have had in view is1 to give to every farmer and country dweller of moderate means the opportunity of possessing a cheap work which would guide him in the general objects which he wishes to accomplish in building1 that he may have his own notions on the subject1 and not be subject to the caprice and government of such as profess to exclusive knowledge in all that appertains to such subjects1 and in which1 it need not be offensive to say1 that although clever in their way1 they are sometimes apt to be mistaken4 ,therefore1 without assuming to instruct the professional builder1 our plans will be submitted1 not without the hope that he even1 may find in them something worthy of consideration2 and we offer them to the owner and future occupant of the buildings themselves1 as models which he may adopt1 with the confidence that they will answer all his reasonable purposes4 ,,design ,i4 ,we here present a farm house of the simplest and most unpretending kind1 suitable for a farm of twenty1 fifty1 or an hundred acres4 ,buildings somewhat in this style are not unfrequently seen in the ,new ,england ,states1 and in ,new ,york2 and the plan is in fact suggested1 although not copied1 from some farm houses which we have known there1 with improvements and additions of our own4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #gc-gd4 ,this house may be built either of stone1 brick1 or wood4 ,the style is rather rustic than otherwise1 and intended to be altogether plain1 yet agreeable in outward appearance1 and of quite convenient arrangement4 ,the body of this house is #djx#cj feet on the ground1 and #ab feet high1 to the plates for the roof2 the lower rooms nine feet high2 the roof intended for a pitch of #ce;deg--but1 by an error in the drawing1 made less--thus affording very tolerable chamber room in the roof story4 ,the ,l1 or rear projection1 containing the wash-room and wood-house1 juts out two feet from the side of the house to which it is attached1 with posts #g-a_/b feet high above the floor of the main house2 the pitch of the roof being the same4 ,beyond this is a building #cbx#bd feet1 with #aj feet posts1 partitioned off into a swill-room1 piggery1 workshop1 and wagon-house1 and a like roof with the others4 ,a light1 rustic porch1 #abx#h feet1 with lattice work1 is placed on the front of the house1 and another at the side door1 over which vines1 by way of drapery1 may run2 thus combining that sheltered1 comfortable1 and home-like expression so desirable in a rural dwelling4 ,the chimney is carried out in three separate flues1 sufficiently marked by the partitions above the roof4 ,the windows are hooded1 or sheltered1 to protect them from the weather1 and fitted with simple sliding sashes with #gx#i or #hx#aj glass4 ,outer blinds may be added1 if required2 but it is usually better to have these inside1 as they are no ornament to the outside of the building1 are liable to be driven back and forth by the wind1 even if fastenings are used1 and in any event are little better than a continual annoyance4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door1 over which is a single sash-light across1 opens into a hall or entry #ix#g feet1 from which a door opens on either side into a sitting-room and parlor1 each #afx#ae feet1 lighted by a double1 plain window1 at the ends1 and a single two-sash window in front4 ,between the entrance door and stove1 are in each room a small pantry or closet for dishes1 or otherwise1 as may be required4 ,the chimney stands in the center of the house1 with a separate flue for each front room1 into which a thimble is inserted to receive the stovepipes by which they are warmed2 and from the inner side of these rooms each has a door passing to the kitchen1 or chief living room4 ,this last apartment is #bbx#ae feet1 with a broad fireplace containing a crane1 hooks1 and trammel1 if required1 and a spacious family oven--affording those homely and primitive comforts still so dear to many of us who are not ready to concede that all the virtues of the present day are combined in a perfection cooking stove1 and a patent heater2 although there is a chance for these last1 if they should be adopted into the peaceful atmosphere of this kitchen4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,on one side of the kitchen1 in rear of the stairs1 is a bedroom1 #ix#h feet1 with a window in one corner4 ,adjoining that1 is a buttery1 dairy-room1 or closet1 #ix#f feet1 also having a window4 ,at the inner end of the stairway is the cellar passage2 at the outer end is the chamber passage1 landing above1 in the highest part of the roof story4 ,opposite the chamber stairs is a door leading to the wash-room4 ,between the two windows1 on the rear side of the kitchen1 is a sink1 with a waste pipe passing out through the wall4 ,at the further corner a door opens into a snug bedroom #ix#h feet1 lighted by a window in rear2 and adjoining this is a side entry leading from the end door1 #ix#f feet in area2 thus making every room in the house accessible at once from the kitchen1 and giving the greatest possible convenience in both living and house-work4 ,the roof story is partitioned into convenient-sized bedrooms2 the ceiling running down the pitch of the roof to within two feet of the floor1 unless they are cut short by inner partitions1 as they are in the largest chamber1 to give closets4 ,the open area in the center1 at the head of the stairs1 is lighted by a small gable window inserted in the roof1 at the rear1 and serves as a lumber room2 or1 if necessary1 a bed may occupy a part of it4 ,in rear of the main dwelling is a building #ddx#af feet1 occupied as a wash-room and wood-house4 ,the wash-room floor is let down eight inches below the kitchen1 and is #afx#ad feet1 in area1 lighted by a window on each side1 with a chimney1 in which is set a boiler1 and fireplace1 if desired1 and a sink in the corner adjoining4 ,this room is #g-a_/b feet in height4 ,a door passes from this wash-room into the wood-house1 which is #cjx#af feet1 open in front1 with a water-closet in the further corner4 ,the cellar is #g-a_/b feet in height--and is the whole size of the house1 laid with good stone wall1 in lime mortar1 with a flight of steps leading outside1 in rear of the kitchen1 and two or more sash-light windows at the ends4 ,if not in a loose1 gravelly1 or sandy soil1 the cellar should be kept dry by a drain leading out on to lower ground4 ,the building beyond1 and adjoining the wood-house1 contains a swill-house #afx#ab feet1 with a window in one end2 a chimney and boiler in one corner1 with storage for swill barrels1 grain1 meal1 potatoes1 c41 for feeding the pigs1 which are in the adjoining pen of same size1 with feeding trough1 place for sleeping1 c41 and having a window in one end and a door in the rear1 leading to a yard4 ,adjoining these1 in front1 is a workshop and tool-house1 #afx#aj feet1 with a window at the end1 and an entrance door near the wood house4 ,in this is a joiner's work-bench1 a chest of working tools1 such as saw1 hammer1 augers1 c41 c41 necessary for repairing implements1 doing little rough jobs1 or other wood work1 c41 which every farmer ought to do for himself2 and also storing his hoes1 axes1 shovels1 hammers1 and other small farm implements4 ,in this room he will find abundant rainy-day employment in repairing his utensils of various kinds1 making his beehives1 hencoops1 c41 c4 ,next to this is the wagon-house1 #afx#ad feet1 with broad doors at the end1 and harness pegs around the walls4 ,the posts of this building are #aj feet high2 the rooms eight feet high1 and a low chamber overhead for storing lumber1 grain1 and other articles1 as may be required4 ,altogether1 these several apartments make a very complete and desirable accommodation to a man with the property and occupation for which it is intended4 ,on one side and adjoining the house1 should be the garden1 the clothes-yard1 and the bee-house1 which last should always stand in full sight1 and facing the most frequented room--say the kitchen--that they can be seen daily during the swarming season1 as those performing household duties may keep them in view4 ,,miscellaneous4 ,in regard to the surroundings1 and approach to this dwelling1 they should be treated under the suggestions already given on these subjects4 ,this is an exceedingly snug tenement1 and everything around and about it should be of the same character4 ,no pretension or frippery whatever4 ,a neat garden1 usefully1 rather than ornamentally and profusely supplied2 a moderate court-yard in front2 free access to the end door1 from the main every-day approach by vehicles--not on the highway1 but on the farm road or lane--the business entrance1 in fact2 which should also lead to the barns and sheds beyond1 not far distant4 ,every feature should wear a most domestic look1 and breathe an air of repose and content4 ,trees should be near1 but not so near as to cover the house4 ,a few shrubs of simple kind--some standing roses--a few climbing ones2 a syringa1 a lilac1 a snow ball1 and a little patch or two of flowers near the front porch1 and the whole expression is given2 just as one would wish to look upon as a simple1 unpretending habitation4 ,it is not here proposed to give working plans1 or estimates1 to a nicety2 or particular directions for building any design even1 that we present4 ,the material for construction best suited to the circumstances and locality of the proprietor must govern all those matters2 and as good builders are in most cases at hand1 who are competent to give estimates for the cost of any given plan1 when the material for construction is once settled1 the question of expense is readily fixed4 ,the same sized house1 with the same accommodation1 may be made to cost fifty to one hundred per cent4 over an economical estimate1 by the increased style1 or manner of its finish2 or it may be kept within bounds by a rigid adherence to the plan first adopted4 ,in western ,new ,york this house and attachments complete1 the body of stone1 the wood-house1 wagon-house1 c41 of wood1 may be built and well finished in a plain way for #a1ejj4 ,if built altogether of wood1 with grooved and matched vertical boarding1 and battens1 the whole may be finished and painted for #hjj1 to #a1bjj4 ,for the lowest sum1 the lumber and work would be of a rough kind1 with a cheap wash to color it2 but the latter amount would give good work1 and a lasting coat of mineral paint both outside and within4 ,as a tenant house on a farm of three1 four1 or even five hundred acres1 where all who live in it are laborers in the field or household1 this design may be most conveniently adopted4 ,the family inhabiting it in winter may be well accommodated for sleeping under the main roof1 while they can at all seasons take their meals1 and be made comfortable in the several rooms4 ,in the summer season1 when a larger number of laborers are employed1 the lofts of the carriage or wagon-house and work-shop may be occupied with beds1 and thus a large share of the expense of house building for a very considerable farm be saved4 ,luxury is a quality more or less consulted by every one who builds for his own occupation on a farm1 or elsewhere2 and the tendency in building is constantly to expand1 to give a higher finish1 and in fact1 to over-build4 ,indeed1 if we were to draw the balance1 on our old farms1 between scantily-accommodated houses1 and houses with needless room in them1 the latter would preponderate4 ,not that these latter houses either are too good1 or too convenient for the purpose for which they were built1 but they have too much room1 and that room badly appropriated and arranged4 ,on a farm proper1 the whole establishment is a workshop4 ,the shop out of doors1 we acknowledge1 is not always dry1 nor always warm2 but it is exceedingly well aired and lighted1 and a place where industrious people dearly love to labor4 ,within doors it is a work-shop too4 ,there is always labor and occupation for the family1 in the general business of the farm2 therefore but little room is wanted for either luxury or leisure1 and the farm house should be fully occupied1 with the exception1 perhaps1 of a single room on the main floor1 7and that not a large one17 for some regular business purpose4 ,all these accommodated1 and the requirements of the house are ended4 ,owners of rented farms should reflect1 too1 that expensive houses on their estates entail expensive repairs1 and that continually4 ,many tenants are careless of highly-finished houses4 ,not early accustomed to them1 they misappropriate1 perhaps1 the best rooms in the house1 and pay little attention to the purposes for which the owner designed them1 or to the manner of using them4 ,it is therefore a total waste of money to build a house on a tenant estate anything beyond the mere comfortable wants of the family occupying it1 and to furnish the room necessary for the accommodation of the crops1 stock1 and farm furniture1 in the barns and other out-buildings--all in a cheap1 tidy1 yet substantial way4 ,so1 too1 with the grounds for domestic purposes around the house4 ,a kitchen garden1 sufficient to grow the family vegetables--a few plain fruits--a posey bed or two for the girls--and the story is told4 ,give a larger space for these things--anything indeed1 for elegance--and ten to one1 the plow is introduced1 a corn or potato patch is set out1 field culture is adopted1 and your choice grounds are torn up1 defaced1 and sacrificed to the commonest uses4 ,notwithstanding these drawbacks1 a cheerful1 home-expression may be given1 and should be given to the homestead1 in the character and construction of the buildings1 be they ever so rough and homely4 ,we can call to mind many instances of primitive houses-log cabins even--built when none better could be had1 that presented a most comfortable and life-enjoying picture--residences once1 indeed1 of those who swayed the applause of listening senates1 but under the hands of taste1 and a trifle of labor1 made to look comfortable1 happy1 and sufficient4 ,we confess1 therefore1 to a profound veneration1 if not affection1 for the humble farm house1 as truly ,american in character2 and which1 with a moderate display of skill1 may be made equal to the main purposes of life and enjoyment for all such as do not aspire to a high display1 and who are content to make the most of moderate means4 ,,design ,,ii4 ,this is the plan of a house and out-buildings based chiefly on one which we built of wood some years since on a farm of our own1 and which1 in its occupation1 has proved to be one of exceeding convenience to the purposes intended4 ,as a farm business house1 we have not known it excelled2 nor in the ease and facility of doing up the house-work within it1 do we know a better4 ,it has a subdued1 quiet1 unpretending look2 yet will accommodate a family of a dozen workmen1 besides the females engaged in the household work1 with perfect convenience2 or if occupied by a farmer with but his own family around him1 ample room is afforded them for a most comfortable mode of life1 and sufficient for the requirements of a farm of two1 to three or four hundred acres4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #he-hf ,this house is1 in the main body1 #cfx#bb feet1 one and a half stories high1 with a projection on the rear #cdx#af feet1 for the kitchen and its offices2 and a still further addition to that1 of #bfx#ah feet1 for wash-room4 ,the main body of the house is #ad feet high to the plates2 the lower rooms are #i feet high2 the roof has a pitch of #ce;deg from a horizontal line1 giving partially-upright chambers in the main building1 and roof lodging rooms in the rear4 ,the rear1 or kitchen part1 is one story high1 with #aj feet posts1 and such pitch of roof 7which last runs at right angles to the main body1 and laps on to the main roof17 as will carry the peak up to the same air line4 ,this addition should retreat #f inches from the line of the main building1 on the side given in the design1 and #ah inches on the rear4 ,the rooms on this kitchen floor are #h feet high1 leaving one foot above the upper floor1 under the roof1 as a chamber garret1 or lumber-room1 as may be required4 ,beyond this1 in the rear1 is the other extension spoken of1 with posts #i feet high1 for a buttery1 closet1 or dairy1 or all three combined1 and a wash-room2 the floor of which is on a level with the last1 and the roof running in the same direction1 and of the same pitch4 ,in front of this wash-room1 where not covered by the wood-house1 is an open porch1 #h feet wide and #aj feet long1 the roof of which runs out at a less angle than the others--say #cj;deg from a horizontal line4 ,attached to this is the wood-house1 running off by way of ,l1 at right angles1 #cfx#af feet1 of same height as the wash-room4 ,adjoining the wood-house1 on the same front line1 is a building #ejx#bj feet1 with #ab feet posts1 occupied as a workshop1 wagon-house1 stable1 and store-room1 with a lean-to on the last of #aex#aj feet1 for a piggery4 ,the several rooms in this building are #h feet high1 affording a good lumber room over the workshop1 and hay storage over the wagon-house and stable4 ,over the wagon-house is a gable1 with a blind window swinging on hinges1 for receiving hay1 thus relieving the long1 uniform line of roof1 and affording ample accommodation on each side to a pigeon-house or dovecote1 if required4 ,the style of this establishment is of plain ,italian1 or bracketed1 and may be equally applied to stone1 brick1 or wood4 ,the roofs are broad1 and protect the walls by their full projection over them1 #b-a_/b feet4 ,the small gable in the front roof of the main dwelling relieves it of its otherwise straight uniformity1 and affords a high door-window opening on to the deck of the veranda1 which latter should be #h or #aj feet in width4 ,the shallow windows1 also1 over the wings of the veranda give it a more cheerful expression4 ,the lower end windows of this part of the house are hooded1 or sheltered by a cheap roof1 which gives them a snug and most comfortable appearance4 ,the veranda may appear more ornamental than the plain character of the house requires2 but any superfluous work upon it may be omitted1 and the style of finish conformed to the other4 ,the veranda roof is flatter than that of the house1 but it may be made perfectly tight by closer shingling1 and paint2 while the deck or platform in the centre may be roofed with zinc1 or tin1 and a coat of sanded paint laid upon it4 ,the front chimney is plain1 yet in keeping with the general style of the house1 and may be made of ordinary bricks4 ,the two parts of the chimney1 as they appear in the front rooms1 are drawn together as they pass through the chamber above1 and become one at the roof4 ,the kitchen chimneys pass up through the peaks of their respective roofs1 and should be in like character with the other4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door of this house opens into a small entry or hall1 #ix#f feet1 which is lighted by a low sash of glass over the front door4 ,a door leads into a room on each side2 and at the inner end of the hall is a recess between the two chimneys of the opposite rooms1 in which may be placed a table or broad shelf to receive hats and coats4 ,on the left is a parlor #bbx#ae feet1 lighted on one side by a double window1 and in front by a single plain one4 ,the fireplace is centrally placed on one side of the room1 in the middle of the house4 ,on one side of the fireplace is a closet1 three feet deep1 with shelves1 and another closet at the inner end of the room1 near the kitchen door2 or this closet may be dispensed with for the use of this parlor1 and given up to enlarge the closet which is attached to the bedroom4 ,another door opens directly into the kitchen4 ,this parlor is #i feet high between joints4 ,the sitting-room is opposite to the parlor1 #aix#ae feet1 and lighted and closeted in nearly the same manner1 as will be seen by referring to the floor plan4 ,the kitchen is the grand room of this house4 ,it is #bdx#af feet in area1 having an ample fireplace1 with its hooks and trammels1 and a spacious oven by its side4 ,it is lighted by a double window at one end1 and a single window near the fireplace4 ,at one end of this kitchen is a most comfortable and commodious family bedroom1 #acx#aj feet1 with a large closet in one corner1 and lighted by a window in the side4 ,two windows may be inserted if wanted4 ,a passage leads by the side of the oven to a sink-room1 or recess1 behind the chimney1 with shelves to dry dishes on1 and lighted by the half of a double window1 which accommodates with its other half the dairy1 or closet adjoining4 ,a door also opens from this recess into the closet and dairy1 furnished with broad shelves1 that part of which1 next the kitchen1 is used for dishes1 cold meat and bread cupboards1 c42 while the part of it adjoining the window beyond1 is used for milk4 ,this room is #adx#f feet1 besides the ,l running up next to the kitchen1 of #fx#d feet4 ,from the kitchen also opens a closet into the front part of the house for any purpose needed4 ,this adjoins the parlor1 and sitting-room1 closets4 ,in the passage to the sitting-room also opens the stairway leading to the chambers1 and beneath1 at the other end of it1 next the outside wall1 is a flight leading down cellar4 ,the cellar is excavated under the whole house1 being #cfx#bb1 and #cdx#af feet1 with glass windows1 one light deep by four wide1 of #hx#aj glass2 and an outer door1 and flight of steps outside1 under either the sitting-room or kitchen windows1 as may be most convenient4 ,a door opens1 also1 from the kitchen1 into a passage #d feet wide and #ab feet long leading to the wash-room1 #ahx#af feet1 and by an outside door1 through this passage to the porch4 ,in this passage may be a small window to give it light4 ,in the wash-room are two windows4 ,a chimney at the far end accommodates a boiler or two1 and a fireplace1 if required4 ,a sink stands adjoining the chimney4 ,a flight of stairs1 leading to a garret over head on one side1 and to the kitchen chamber on the other1 stands next the dairy1 into which last a door also leads4 ,in this wash-room may be located the cooking stove in warm weather1 leaving the main kitchen for a family and eating room4 ,a door also leads from the wash-room into the wood-house4 ,the wood-house stands lower than the floor of the wash-room1 from which it falls1 by steps4 ,this is large1 because a plentiful store of wood is needed for a dwelling of this character4 ,if the room be not all wanted for such purpose1 a part of it may devoted to other necessary uses1 there seldom being too much shelter of this kind on a farm2 through the rear wall of this wood-house leads a door into the garden1 or clothes-yard1 as the case may be2 and at its extreme angle is a water closet1 #fx#d feet1 by way of lean-to1 with a hipped roof1 #h feet high1 running off from both the wood-house and workshop4 ,this water-closet is lighted by a sliding sash window4 ,on to the wood-house1 in a continuous front line1 joins the workshop1 an indispensable appendage to farm convenience4 ,this has a flight of stairs leading to the lumber-room above4 ,for the furnishing of this apartment1 see description of ,design ,i4 ,next to the work-house is the wagon and tool-house1 above which is the hay loft1 also spread over the stable adjoining2 in which last are stalls for a pair of horses1 which may be required for uses other than the main labors of the farm--to run to market1 carry the family to church1 or elsewhere4 ,a pair of horses for such purposes should always be kept near the house4 ,the horse-stalls occupy a space of #ajx#ab feet1 with racks and feeding boxes4 ,the plans of these will be described hereafter4 ,the door leading out from these stalls is #e feet wide1 and faces the partition1 so that each horse may be led out or in at an easy angle from them4 ,beyond the stalls is a passage #d feet wide1 leading to a store-room or area1 from which a flight of rough stairs leads to the hay loft above4 ,beyond this room1 in which is the oat bin for the horses1 is a small piggery1 for the convenience of a pig or two1 which are always required to consume the daily wash and offal of the house2 and not for the general pork stock of the farm2 which1 on one of this size1 may be expected to require more commodious quarters4 ,the chamber plan of this house is commodious1 furnishing one large room and three smaller ones4 ,the small chamber leading to the deck over the porch1 may1 or may not be occupied as a sleeping room4 ,the small one near the stairs may contain a single bed1 or be occupied as a large clothes-closet4 ,through this1 a door leads into the kitchen chamber1 which may serve as one1 or more laborers' bed-chambers4 ,they may be lighted by one or more windows in the rear gable4 ,if more convenient to the family1 the parlor and sitting-room1 already described1 may change their occupation1 and one substituted for the other4 ,the main business approach to this house should be by a lane1 or farm road opening on the side next the stable and wagon-house4 ,the yard1 in front of these last named buildings1 should be separated from the lawn1 or front door-yard of the dwelling4 ,the establishment should stand some distance back from the traveled highway1 and be decorated with such trees1 shrubbery1 and cultivation1 as the taste of the owner may direct4 ,no general rules or directions can be applicable to this design beyond what have already been given2 and the subject must be treated as circumstances may suggest4 ,the unfrequented side of the house should1 however1 be flanked with a garden1 either ornamental1 or fruit and vegetable2 as buildings of this character ought to command a corresponding share of attention with the grounds by which they are surrounded4 ,this house will appear equally well built of wood1 brick1 or stone4 ,its cost1 according to materials1 or finish1 may be #a1jjj or #a1ejj4 ,the out-buildings attached1 will add #djj to #fjj1 with the same conditions as to finish2 but the whole may be substantially and well built of either stone1 brick1 or wood1 where each may be had at equal convenience1 for #b1jjj in the interior of ,new ,york4 ,of course1 it is intended to do all the work plain1 and in character for the occupation to which it is intended4 ,,miscellaneous ,,details4 ,at this point of our remarks a word or two may be offered on the general subject of inside finish to farm houses1 which may be applicable more or less to any one1 or all of the designs that may come under our observation2 therefore what is here said1 may be applied at large4 ,different sections of the ,united ,states have their own several local notions1 or preferences as to the mode of finish to their houses and out-buildings1 according to climate1 education1 or other circumstances4 ,in all these matters neither taste1 fashion1 nor climate should be arbitrary4 ,the manner of finish may be various1 without any departure from truth or propriety--always keeping in mind the object for which it is intended4 ,the material for a country house should be strong1 and durable1 and the work simple in its details1 beyond that for either town or suburban houses4 ,it should be strong1 for the reason that the interior of the farm house is used for purposes of industry1 in finishing up and perfecting the labors of the farm2 labors indispensable too1 and in amount beyond the ordinary housekeeping requirements of a family who have little to do but merely to live1 and make themselves comfortable4 ,the material should be durable1 because the distance at which the farm house is usually located from the residences of building mechanics1 renders it particularly troublesome and expensive to make repairs1 and alterations4 ,the work should be simple1 because cheaper in the first place1 in construction1 and finish2 quite as appropriate and satisfactory in appearance2 and demanding infinitely less labor and pains to care for1 and protect it afterward4 ,therefore all mouldings1 architraves1 chisel-work1 and gewgawgery in interior finish should be let alone in the living and daily occupied rooms of the house4 ,if1 to a single parlor1 or spare bedchamber a little ornamental work be permitted1 let even that be in moderation1 and just enough to teach the active mistress and her daughters what a world of scrubbing and elbow work they have saved themselves in the enjoyment of a plainly-finished house1 instead of one full of gingerbread work and finery4 ,none but the initiated can tell the affliction that chiseled finishing entails on housekeepers in the spider1 fly1 and other insect lodgment which it invites--frequently the cause of more annoyance and daily disquietude in housekeeping1 because unnecessary1 than real griefs from which we may not expect to escape4 ,bases1 casings1 sashes1 doors--all should be plain1 and painted or stained a quiet russet color--a color natural to the woods used for the finish1 if it can be1 showing1 in their wear1 as little of dust1 soiling1 and fly dirt as possible4 ,there is no poetry about common housekeeping4 ,cooking1 house-cleaning1 washing1 scrubbing1 sweeping1 are altogether matter-of-fact duties1 and usually considered work1 not recreation2 and these should all be made easy of performance1 and as seldom to be done as possible2 although the first item always was1 and always will be1 and the last item should be1 an every-day vocation for somebody2 and the manner of inside finish to a house has a great deal to do with all these labors4 ,in a stone1 or brick house1 the inside walls should be firred off for plastering4 ,this may be done either by plugging1 that is1 driving a plug of wood strongly into the mortar courses1 into which the firring should be nailed1 or by laying a strip of thin board in the mortar course1 the entire length of each wall4 ,this is better than blocks laid in for such purpose1 because it is effectually bound by the stone1 or brick work2 whereas1 a block may get loose by shrinking1 but the nails which hold the firring to the plug1 or to the thin strip of board will split and wedge it closer to the mason work of the outside wall4 ,this is an important item4 ,it makes close work too1 and leaves no room for rats1 mice1 or other vermin2 and as it admits a space--no matter how thin--so that no outside damp from the walls can communicate into1 or through the inner plastering1 it answers all purposes4 ,the inside1 and partition walls should be of coarse1 strong mortar1 floated off as smoothly as may be1 not a hard finish1 which is fine1 and costly2 and then papered throughout for the better rooms1 and the commonly-used rooms whitewashed4 ,paper gives a most comfortable look to the rooms1 more so than paint1 and much less expensive1 while nothing is so sweet1 tidy1 and cheerful to the working rooms of the house as a lime wash1 either white1 or softened down with some agreeable tint1 such as light blue1 green1 drab1 fawn1 or russet1 to give the shade desired1 and for which every professional painter and whitewasher in the vicinity1 can furnish a proper recipe applicable to the place and climate4 ,on such subjects we choose to prescribe1 rather than to play the apothecary by giving any of the thousand and one recipes extant1 for the composition4 ,our remarks upon the strength and durability of material in house-building do not apply exclusively to brick and stone4 ,wood is included also2 and of this1 there is much difference in the kind4 ,sound white oak1 is1 perhaps the best material for the heavy frame-work of any house or out-building1 and when to be had at a moderate expense1 we would recommend it in preference to any other4 ,if white oak cannot be had1 the other varieties of oak1 or chesnut are the next best4 ,in light frame-timbers1 such as studs1 girts1 joists1 or rafters1 oak is inclined to spring and warp1 and we would prefer hemlock1 or chesnut1 which holds a nail equally as well1 or1 in its absence1 pine1 7which holds a nail badly17 whitewood1 or black walnut4 ,the outside finish to a wooden house1 may be lighter than in one of stone or brick4 ,the wood work on the outside of the latter should always be heavy1 and in character with the walls1 giving an air of firmness and stability to the whole structure4 ,no elaborate carving1 or beadwork should be permitted on the outside work of a country house at all2 and only a sufficient quantity of ornamental tracery of any kind1 to break the monotony of a plainness that would otherwise give it a formal1 or uncouth expression1 and relieve it of what some would consider a pasteboard look4 ,a farm house1 in fact1 of any degree1 either cheap or expensive1 should wear the same appearance as a well-dressed person of either sex2 so that a stranger1 not looking at them for the purpose of inspecting their garb1 should1 after an interview1 be unable to tell what particular sort of dress they wore1 so perfectly in keeping was it with propriety4 ,in the design now under discussion1 a cellar is made under the whole body of the house2 and this cellar is a shallow one1 so far as being sunk into the ground is concerned1 say #e-a_/b feet1 leaving #b-a_/b feet of cellar wall above ground--#h feet in all4 ,a part of the wall above ground should be covered by the excavated earth1 and sloped off to a level with the surrounding surface4 ,a commodious1 well-lighted1 and well-ventilated cellar is one of the most important apartments of the farm house4 ,it should1 if the soil be compact1 be well drained from some point or corner within the walls into a lower level outside1 to which point within1 the whole floor surface should incline1 and the bottom be floored with water-lime cement4 ,this will make it hard1 durable1 and dry4 ,it may then be washed and scrubbed off as easily as an upper floor4 ,if the building site be high1 and in a gravelly1 or sandy soil1 neither drain nor flooring will be required4 ,the cellar may be used for the storage of root crops1 apples1 meats1 and household vegetables4 ,a partitioned room will accommodate either a summer or a winter dairy1 if not otherwise provided1 and a multitude of conveniences may be made of it in all well arranged farmeries4 ,but in all cases the cellar should be well lighted1 ventilated1 and dry4 ,even the ash-house and smoke-house may be made in it with perfect convenience1 by brick or stone partitions1 and the smoke-house flue be carried up into one of the chimney flues above1 and thus make a more snug and compact arrangement than to have separate buildings for those objects4 ,a wash-room1 in which1 also1 the soap may be made1 the tallow and lard tried up1 and other extraordinary labor when fire heat is to be used1 may properly be made in a cellar1 particularly when on a sloping ground1 and easy of access to the ground level on one side4 ,but1 as a general rule1 such room is better on a level with the main floor of the dwelling1 and there are usually sufficient occupations for the cellar without them4 ,all cellar walls should be at least #ah inches thick1 for even a wooden house1 and from that to #b feet for a stone or brick one1 and well laid in strong lime-mortar4 ,unmortared cellar walls are frequently laid under wooden buildings1 and pointed with lime-mortar inside2 but this is sometimes dug out by rats1 and is apt to crumble and fall out otherwise4 ,a complete cellar wall should be thoroughly laid in mortar4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #aja-ajb4 ,,design ,,iii4 ,we here present the reader with a substantial1 plain1 yet highly-respectable stone or brick farm house1 of the second class1 suitable for an estate of three1 to five hundred acres1 and accommodation for a family of a dozen or more persons4 ,the style is mixed rural ,gothic1 ,italian1 and bracketed2 yet in keeping with the character of the farm1 and the farmer's standing and occupation4 ,the main body of this house is #dbx#bd feet on the ground1 and one and three quarter stories high--the chambers running two or three feet into the roof1 as choice or convenience may direct4 ,the roof has a pitch of #cj to #dj;deg from a horizontal line1 and broadly spread over the walls1 say two and a half feet1 showing the ends of the rafters1 bracket fashion4 ,the chimneys pass out through the peak of the roof1 where the hips of what would otherwise be the gables1 connect with the long sides of the roof covering the front and rear4 ,on the long front is partly seen1 in the perspective1 a portico1 #afx#aj feet--not the chief entrance front1 but rather a side front1 practically1 which leads into a lawn or garden1 as may be most desirable1 and from which the best view from the house is commanded4 ,over this porch is a small gable running into the roof1 to break its monotony1 in which is a door-window leading from the upper hall on to the deck of the porch4 ,this gable has the same finish as the main roof1 by brackets4 ,the chamber windows are two-thirds or three-quarters the size of the lower ones2 thus showing the upper story not full height below the plates1 but running two to four feet into the garret4 ,the rear wing1 containing the entrance or business front1 is #bdx#cb feet1 one and a half stories high1 with a pitch of roof not less than #ce;deg1 and spread over the walls both at the eaves and gable1 in the same proportion as the roof to the main body4 ,in front of this is a porch or veranda eight feet wide1 with a low1 hipped roof4 ,in the front and rear roofs of this wing is a dormer window1 to light the chambers4 ,the gable to this wing is bold1 and gives it character by the breadth of its roof over the walls1 and the strong brackets by which it is supported4 ,the chimney is thrown up strong and boldly at the point of the roof1 indicating the every-day uses of the fireplaces below1 which1 although distinct and wide apart in their location on the ground floors1 are drawn together in the chambers1 thus showing only one escape through the roof4 ,the wood-house in the rear of the wing has a roof of the same character1 and connects with the long building in the rear1 which has the same description of roof1 but hipped at one end4 ,that end over the workshop1 and next the wood-house1 shows a bold gable like the wing of the house1 and affords room and light to the lumber room over the shop1 and also gives variety and relief to the otherwise too great sameness of roof-appearance on the further side of the establishment4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,as has been remarked1 the main entrance front to this house is from the wing veranda1 from which a well finished and sizeable door leads into the principal hall1 #bdx#h feet in area1 and lighted by a full-sized window at the front end4 ,opposite the entrance door is the door leading into the parlor2 and farther along is the staircase1 under the upper landing of which a door leads into a dining or sitting-room1 as may be determined4 ,this hall is #aj feet high1 as are all the rooms of this lower main story4 ,in the chimney1 which adjoins the parlor side of this hall1 may be inserted a thimble for a hall stovepipe1 if this method of warming should be adopted4 ,the parlor1 into which a door leads from the hall1 is #ahx#af feet1 with two windows on the side1 shown in perspective1 and one on the front facing the lawn1 or garden4 ,it has also a fireplace near the hall door4 ,at the further angle is a door leading to an entry or passage on to the portico4 ,e is the entry just mentioned1 six feet square1 and lighted by a short sash1 one light deep1 over the outside door4 ,this portico may be made a pleasant summer afternoon and evening resort for the family1 by which the occupied rooms connect with the lawn or garden1 thus adding to its retired and private character4 ,opposite the parlor1 on the other side of this entry1 a door leads into a room #ahx#ab feet1 which may be occupied as a family bedroom1 library1 or small sitting-room4 ,this is lighted by two windows1 and has a closet of #fx#e feet4 ,a fireplace is on the inner side of this room2 and near to that1 a door connects with a dining-room of the same size1 having a window in one end1 and a fireplace1 and closet of the same size as the last4 ,through the rear wall is a door leading into a pantry1 which also communicates with the kitchen2 and another door leads to the hall1 and from the hall1 under the staircases1 7which1 at that point1 are sufficiently high for the purpose17 is a passage leading to the kitchen4 ,under the wing veranda1 near the point of intersection of the wing with the main body of the house1 is an every-day outer door1 leading into a small entry1 #fx#e feet1 and lighted by a low1 one-sash window over the door4 ,by another door1 this leads to the kitchen1 or family room1 which is lighted by three windows4 ,an ample fireplace1 with oven1 c41 accommodates this room at the end4 ,a closet1 #gx#e feet1 also stands next to the entry2 and beyond that1 an open passage1 to the left1 leading out under the front hall stairs to the rooms of the main building4 ,a door also leads from that passage into a best pantry1 for choice crockery1 sweetmeats1 and tea-table comforts4 ,another door1 near the last1 leads into a dairy or milk-room1 #ix#h feet1 beyond the passage2 in which last1 also1 may be placed a tier of narrow shelves4 ,this milk1 or dairy-room1 is lighted by a window in the end1 and connects also1 by a door in the side1 with the outer kitchen1 or wash-room4 ,next to this milk-room door1 in the front kitchen1 is another door leading down cellar2 and through this door1 passing by the upper1 broad stair of the flight of cellar steps1 is another door into the wash-room4 ,at the farther angle of the kitchen is still another door1 opening into a passage four feet wide2 and1 in that passage1 a door leading up a flight of stairs into the wing chambers4 ,this passage opens into the back kitchen1 or wash-room1 #afx#af feet in area1 and lighted by two windows1 one of which looks into the wood-house4 ,in this wash-room is a chimney with boilers and fireplace1 as may be required4 ,the cellar and chamber stairs1 and the milk-room are also accessible direct1 by doors leading from this wash-room4 ,the chamber plan will be readily understood1 and requires no particular description4 ,the space over the wing may be partitioned off according to the plan1 or left more open for the accommodation of the work folks1 as occasion may demand4 ,but1 as this dwelling is intended for substantial people1 well to do in the world1 and who extend a generous hospitality to their friends1 a liberal provision of sleeping chambers is given to the main body of the house4 ,the parlor chamber1 which is the best1 or spare one1 is #ahx#af feet1 with roomy side-closets4 ,besides this1 are other rooms for the daughters ,sally1 and ,nancy1 and ,fanny1 and possibly ,mary and ,elizabeth--who want their own chambers1 which they keep so clean and tidy1 with closets full of nice bedclothes1 table linen1 towels1 c41 c41 for certain events not yet whispered of1 but quite sure to come round4 ,and then there are ,frederick1 and ,robert1 and ,george1 fine stalwart boys coming into manhood1 intending to be somebody in the world1 one day or another2 they must have their rooms--and good ones too2 for1 if any people are to be well lodged1 why not those who toil for it8 ,all such accommodation every farm house of this character should afford4 ,and we need not go far1 or look sharp1 to see the best men and the best women in our state and nation graduating from the wholesome farm house thus tidily and amply provided4 ,how delightfully look the far-off mountains1 or the nearer plains1 or prairies1 from the lawn porch of this snug farm house6 ,the distant lake2 the shining river1 singing away through the valley2 or the wimpling brook1 stealing through the meadow6 ,aye1 enjoy them all1 for they are ,god's best1 richest gifts1 and we are made to love them4 ,the wood-house strikes off from the back kitchen1 retreating two feet from its gable wall1 and is #cfx#ad feet in size4 ,a bathing room may be partitioned off #hx#f feet1 on the rear corner next the wash-room1 if required1 although not laid down in the plan4 ,at the further end is the water-closet1 #fx#d feet4 ,or1 if the size and convenience of the family require it1 a part of the wood-house may be partitioned off for a wash-room1 from which a chimney may pass up through the peak of the roof4 ,if so1 carry it up so high that it will be above the eddy that the wind may make in passing over the adjoining wing1 not causing it to smoke from that cause4 ,at the far end of the wood-house is the workshop and tool-house1 #ahx#af feet1 lighted by two windows1 and a door to enter it from beneath the wood-house4 ,over this1 is the lumber and store-room4 ,next to this is the swill-room and pigsty for the house pigs1 as described in the last design2 and over it a loft for farm seeds1 small grains1 and any other storage required4 ,adjoining this is the wagon and carriage-house2 and above1 the hayloft1 stretching1 also1 partly over the stable which stands next1 with two stalls1 #abx#e feet each1 with a flight of stairs leading to the loft1 in the passage next the door4 ,in this loft are swinging windows1 to let in hay for the horses4 ,this completes the household establishment1 and we leave the surroundings to the correct judgment and good taste of the proprietor to complete1 as its position1 and the variety of objects with which it may be connected1 requires4 ,stone and brick we have mentioned as the proper materials for this house2 but it may be also built of wood1 if more within the means and limits of the builder4 ,there should be no pinching in its proportions1 but every part carried out in its full breadth and effect4 ,the cost of the whole establishment may be from #b1jjj1 to #c1jjj2 depending somewhat upon the material used1 and the finish put upon it4 ,the first-named sum would build the whole in an economical and plain manner1 while the latter would complete it amply in its details4 ,,miscellaneous4 ,it may be an objection in the minds of some persons to the various plans here submitted1 that we have connected the out-buildings immediately with the offices of the dwelling itself4 ,we are well aware that such is not always usual2 but many years observation have convinced us1 that in their use and occupation1 such connection is altogether the most convenient and economical4 ,the only drawback is in the case of fire2 which1 if it occur in any one building1 the whole establishment is liable to be consumed4 ,this objection is conceded2 but we take it1 that it is the business of every one not able to be his own insurer1 to have his buildings insured by others2 and the additional cost of this insurance is not a tithe of what the extra expense of time1 labor1 and exposure is caused to the family by having the out-buildings disconnected1 and at a fire-proof distance from each other4 ,there has1 too1 in the separation of these out-buildings1 7we do not now speak of barns1 and houses for the stock1 and the farmwork proper17 from the main dwelling1 crept into the construction of such dwellings1 by modern builders1 some things1 which in a country establishment1 particularly1 ought never to be there1 such as privies1 or water-closets1 as they are more genteelly called4 ,these last1 in our estimation1 have no business in a farmer's house4 ,they are an effeminacy1 only1 and introduced by city life4 ,an appendage they should be1 but separated to some distance from the living rooms1 and accessible by sheltered passages to them4 ,the wood-house should adjoin the outer kitchen1 because the fuel should always be handy1 and the outer kitchen1 or wash-room is a sort of slop-room1 of necessity2 and the night wood1 and that for the morning fires may be deposited in it for immediate use4 ,the workshop1 and small tool-house naturally comes next to that1 as being chiefly used in stormy weather4 ,next to this last1 would1 more conveniently1 come the carriage or wagon-house1 and of course a stable for a horse or two for family use1 always accessible at night1 and convenient at unseasonable hours for farm labor4 ,in the same close neighborhood1 also1 should be a small pigsty1 to accommodate a pig or two1 to eat up the kitchen slops from the table1 refuse vegetables1 parings1 dishwater1 c41 c41 which could not well be carried to the main piggery of the farm1 unless the old-fashioned filthy mode of letting the hogs run in the road1 and a trough set outside the door-yard fence1 as seen in some parts of the country1 were adopted4 ,a pig can always be kept1 and fatted in three or four months1 from the wash of the house1 with a little grain1 in any well-regulated farmer's family4 ,a few fowls may also be kept in a convenient hen-house1 if desired1 without offence--all constituting a part of the household economy of the place4 ,these out-buildings too1 give a comfortable1 domestic look to the whole concern4 ,each one shelters and protects the other1 and gives an air of comfort and repose to the whole--a family expression all round4 ,what so naked and chilling to the feelings1 as to see a country dwelling-house all perked up1 by itself1 standing1 literally1 out of doors1 without any dependencies about it8 ,no1 no4 ,first should stand the house1 the chief structure1 in the foreground2 appendant to that1 the kitchen wing2 next in grade1 the wood-house2 covering in1 also1 the minor offices of the house4 ,then by way of setting up1 partially on their own account1 should come the workshop1 carriage-house1 and stable1 as practically having a separate character1 but still subordinate to the house and its requirements2 and these too1 may have their piggery and hen-house1 by way of tapering off to the adjoining fence1 which encloses a kitchen garden1 or family orchard4 ,thus1 each structure is appropriate in its way--and together1 they form a combination grateful to the sight1 as a complete rural picture4 ,all objections1 on account of filth or vermin1 to this connection1 may be removed by a cleanly keeping of the premises--a removal of all offal immediately as it is made1 and daily or weekly taking it on to the manure heaps of the barns1 or depositing it at once on the grounds where it is required4 ,in point of health1 nothing is more congenial to sound physical condition than the occasional smell of a stable1 or the breath of a cow1 not within the immediate contiguity to the occupied rooms of the dwelling4 ,on the score of neatness1 therefore1 as we have placed them1 no bar can be raised to their adoption4 ,,design ,,iv4 ,this is perhaps a more ambitious house than either of the preceding1 although it may be adapted to a domain of the same extent and value4 ,it is plain and unpretending in appearance2 yet1 in its ample finish1 and deeply drawn1 sheltering eaves1 broad veranda1 and spacious out-buildings1 may give accommodation to a larger family indulging a more liberal style of living than the last4 ,by an error in the engraving1 the main roof of the house is made to appear like a double1 or gambrel-roof1 breaking at the intersection of the gable1 or hanging roof over the ends4 ,this is not so intended4 ,the roofs on each side are a straight line of rafters4 ,the ,swiss1 or hanging style of gable-roof is designed to give a more sheltered effect to the elevation than to run the end walls to a peak in the point of the roof4 ,by a defect in the drawing1 the roof of the veranda is not sufficiently thrown over the columns4 ,this roof should project at least one foot beyond them1 so as to perfectly shelter the mouldings beneath from the weather1 and conform to the style of the main roof of the house4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #aae-aaf4 ,the material of which it is built may be of either stone1 brick1 or wood1 as the taste or convenience of the proprietor may suggest4 ,the main building is #ddx#cf feet1 on the ground4 ,the cellar wall may show #ah to #bd inches above the ground1 and be pierced by windows in each end1 as shown in the plan4 ,the height of the main walls may be two full stories below the roof plates1 or the chambers may run a foot or two into the garret1 at the choice of the builder1 either of which arrangements may be permitted4 ,the front door opens from a veranda #bh feet long by #aj feet in depth1 dropping eight inches from the door-sill4 ,this veranda has a hipped roof1 which juts over the columns in due proportion with the roof of the house over its walls4 ,these columns are plain1 with brackets1 or braces from near their tops1 sustaining the plate and finish of the roof above1 which may be covered either with tin or zinc1 painted1 or closely shingled4 ,the walls of the house may be #ah to #bj feet high below the plates2 the roof a pitch of #cj to #de;deg1 which will afford an upper garret1 or store1 or small sleeping rooms1 if required2 and the eaves should project two to three feet1 as climate may demand1 over the walls4 ,a plain finish--that is1 ceiled underneath--is shown in the design1 but brackets on the ends of the rafters1 beaded and finished1 may be shown1 if preferred4 ,the gables are ,swiss-roofed1 or truncated1 thus giving them a most sheltered and comfortable appearance1 particularly in a northerly climate4 ,the small gable in front relieves the roof of its monotony1 and affords light to the central garret4 ,the chimneys are carried out with partition flues1 and may be topped with square caps1 as necessity or taste may demand4 ,retreating three feet from the kitchen side of the house runs1 at right angles1 a wing #cjx#ah feet1 one and a half stories high1 with a veranda eight feet wide in front4 ,next in rear of this1 continues a wood-house1 #cjx#ah feet1 one story high1 with ten feet posts1 and open in front1 the ground level of which is #ah inches below the floor of the wing to which it is attached4 ,the roof of these two is of like character with that of the main building4 ,adjoining this wood-house1 and at right angles with it1 is a building #fhx#ah feet1 projecting two feet outside the line of wood-house and kitchen4 ,this building is one and a half stories high1 with #ab feet posts1 and roof in the same style and of equal pitch as the others4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door from the veranda of the house opens into a hall1 #ahx#h feet1 and #aa feet high1 amply lighted by sash windows on the sides1 and over the door4 ,from the rear of this hall runs a flight of easy stairs1 into the upper or chamber hall4 ,on one side of the lower hall1 a door leads into a parlor1 #ah feet square1 and #aa feet high1 lighted by three windows1 and warmed by an open stove1 or fireplace1 the pipe passing into a chimney flue in the rear4 ,a door passes from this parlor into a rear passage1 or entry1 thus giving it access to the kitchen and rear apartments4 ,at the back end of the front hall1 a door leads into the rear passage and kitchen2 and on the side opposite the parlor1 a door opens into the sitting or family room1 #ahx#af feet in area1 having an open fireplace1 and three windows4 ,on the hall side of this room1 a door passes into the kitchen1 #bbx#af feet1 and which may1 in case the requirements of the family demand it1 be made the chief family or living room1 and the last one described converted into a library4 ,in this kitchen1 which is lighted by two windows1 is a liberal open fireplace1 with an ample oven by its side1 and a sink in the outer corner4 ,a flight of stairs1 also1 leads to the rear chambers above2 and a corresponding flight1 under them1 to the cellar below4 ,a door at each end of these stairs1 leads into the back entry of the house1 and thus to the other interior rooms1 or through the rear outer door to the back porch4 ,this back entry is lighted by a single sash window over the outside door leading to the porch4 ,another door1 opposite that leading down cellar1 opens into the passage through the wing4 ,from the rear hall1 which is #afx#e feet1 the innermost passage leads into a family bedroom1 or nursery1 #afx#ad feet1 lighted by a window in each outside wall1 and warmed by an open fireplace1 or stove1 at pleasure4 ,attached to this bedroom is a clothes-closet1 #hx#d feet1 with shelves1 and drawers4 ,next the outer door1 in rear end of the hall1 is a small closet opening from it1 #fx#d feet in dimensions1 convertible to any use which the mistress of the house may direct4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,opening into the wing from the kitchen1 first1 is a large closet and pantry1 supplied with a table1 drawers1 and shelves1 in which are stored the dishes1 table furniture1 and edibles necessary to be kept at a moment's access4 ,this room is #adx#h feet1 and well lighted by a window of convenient size4 ,if necessary1 this room may have a partition1 shutting off a part from the everyday uses which the family requires4 ,in this room1 so near to the kitchen1 to the sink1 to hot-water1 and the other little domestic accessories which good housewives know so well how to arrange and appreciate1 all the nice little table-comforts can be got up1 and perfected1 and stored away1 under lock and key1 in drawer1 tub1 or jar1 at their discretion1 and still their eyes not be away from their subordinates in the other departments4 ,next to this1 and connected by a door1 is the dairy1 or milk-room1 also #adx#h feet2 which1 if necessary1 may be sunk three or four feet into the ground1 for additional coolness in the summer season1 and the floor reached by steps4 ,in this are ample shelves for the milkpans1 conveniences of churning1 c41 c4 ,but1 if the dairy be a prominent object of the farm1 a separate establishment will be required1 and the excavation may not be necessary for ordinary household uses4 ,out of this milk-room1 a door leads into a wash-room1 #ahx#ad feet4 ,a passage from the kitchen also leads into this4 ,the wash-room is lighted by two windows in rear1 and one in front4 ,a sink is between the two rear windows1 with conductor leading outside1 and a closet beneath it1 for the iron ware4 ,in the chimney1 at the end1 are boilers1 and a fireplace1 an oven1 or anything else required1 and a door leading to a platform in the wood-house1 and so into the yard4 ,on the other side of the chimney1 a door leads into a bathing-room1 #gx#f feet1 into which hot water is drawn from one of the boilers adjoining1 and cold water may be introduced1 by a hand-pump1 through a pipe leading into the well or cistern4 ,as no more convenient opportunity may present itself1 a word or two will be suggested as to the location of the bath-room in a country house4 ,in city houses1 or country houses designed for the summer occupancy of city dwellers1 the bathing-rooms are usually placed in the second or chamber story1 and the water for their supply is drawn from cisterns still above them4 ,this arrangement1 in city houses1 is made chiefly from the want of room on the ground floor2 and1 also1 thus arranged in the city-country houses1 because they are so constructed in the city4 ,in the farm house1 or in the country house proper1 occupied by whom it may be1 such arrangement is unnecessary1 expensive1 and inconvenient4 ,unnecessary1 because there is no want of room on the ground2 expensive1 because an upper cistern is always liable to leakages1 and a consequent wastage of water1 wetting1 and rotting out the floors1 and all the slopping and dripping which such accidents occasion2 and inconvenient1 from the continual up-and-down-stair labor of those who occupy the bath1 to say nothing of the piercing the walls of the house1 for the admission of pipes to lead in and let out the water1 and the thousand-and-one vexations1 by way of plumbers' bills1 and expense of getting to and from the house itself1 always a distance of some miles from the mechanic4 ,the only defence for such location of the bath-room and cisterns is1 the convenience and privacy of access to them1 by the females of the family4 ,this counts but little1 if anything1 over the place appropriated in this1 and the succeeding designs of this work4 ,the access is almost1 if not quite as private as the other1 and1 in case of ill-health1 as easily approachable to invalids4 ,and on the score of economy in construction1 repair1 or accident1 the plan here adopted is altogether preferable4 ,in this plan1 the water is drawn from the boiler by the turning of a cock2 that from the cistern1 by a minute's labor with the hand-pump4 ,it is let off by the drawing of a plug1 and discharges1 by a short pipe1 into the adjoining garden1 or grassplat1 to moisten and invigorate the trees and plants which require it1 and the whole affair is clean and sweet again4 ,a screen for the window gives all the privacy required1 and the most fastidious1 shrinking female is as retired as in the shadiest nook of her dressing-room4 ,so with water-closets4 ,a fashion prevails of thrusting these noisome things into the midst of sleeping chambers and living rooms--pandering to effeminacy1 and1 at times1 surcharging the house--for they cannot1 at all times1 and under all circumstances1 be kept perfectly close--with their offensive odor4 ,out of the house they belong2 and if they1 by any means1 find their way within its walls proper1 the fault will not be laid at our door4 ,to get back to our description4 ,this bathing-room occupies a corner of the wood-house4 ,a raised platform passes from the wash-room in1 past the bath-room1 to a water-closet1 which may be divided into two apartments1 if desirable4 ,the vaults are accessible from the rear1 for cleaning out1 or introducing lime1 gypsum1 powdered charcoal1 or other deodorizing material4 ,at the extreme corner of the wood-house1 a door opens into a feed and swill-room1 #bjx#h feet1 which is reached by steps1 and stands quite eighteen inches above the ground level1 on a stone under-pinning1 or with a stone cellar beneath1 for the storage of roots in winter4 ,in one corner of this is a boiler and chimney1 for cooking food for the pigs and chickens4 ,a door leads from this room into the piggery1 #bjx#ab feet1 where half-a-dozen swine may be kept4 ,a door leads from this pen into a yard1 in the rear1 where they will be less offensive than if confined within4 ,if necessary1 a flight of steps1 leading to the loft overhead1 may be built1 where corn can be stored for their feeding4 ,next to this is the workshop and tool-house1 #ahx#ad feet2 and1 in rear1 a snug1 warm house for the family chickens1 #ahx#f feet4 ,these chickens may also have the run of the yard in rear1 with the pigs1 and apartments in the loft overhead for roosting4 ,adjoining the workshop is the carriage house1 #ahx#ah feet1 with a flight of stairs to the hayloft above1 in which is1 also1 a dovecote2 and1 leading out of the carriage floor1 is the stable1 #ahx#ab feet1 with stalls for two or four horses1 and a passage of four feet wide1 from the carriage-house into it2 thus completing1 and drawing under one continuous roof1 and at less exposure than if separated1 the chief every-day requirements of living1 to a well-arranged and highly-respectable family4 ,the chamber plan of the dwelling will be readily understood by reference to its arrangement4 ,there are a sufficiency of closets for all purposes1 and the whole are accessible from either flight of stairs4 ,the rooms over the wing1 of course1 should be devoted to the male domestics of the family1 work-people1 c4 ,,surrounding ,,plantations1 ,,shrubbery1 ,,walks1 ,,etc4 ,after the general remarks made in the preceding pages1 no particular instructions can be given for the manner in which this residence should be embellished in its trees and shrubbery4 ,the large forest trees1 always grand1 graceful1 and appropriate1 would become such a house1 throwing a protecting air around and over its quiet1 unpretending roof4 ,vines1 or climbing roses1 might throw their delicate spray around the columns of the modest veranda1 and a varied selection of familiar shrubbery and ornamental plants checker the immediate front and sides of the house looking out upon the lawn2 through which a spacious walk1 or carriage-way should wind1 from the high road1 or chief approach4 ,there are1 however1 so many objects to be consulted in the various sites of houses1 that no one rule can be laid down for individual guidance4 ,the surface of the ground immediately adjoining the house must be considered2 the position of the house1 as it is viewed from surrounding objects2 its altitude1 or depression1 as affected by the adjacent lands2 its command upon surrounding near1 or distant objects1 in the way of prospect2 the presence of water1 either in stream1 pond1 or lake1 far or near1 or the absence of water altogether--all these enter immediately into the manner in which the lawn of a house should be laid out1 and worked1 and planted4 ,but as a rule1 all filagree work1 such as serpentine paths1 and tortuous1 unmeaning circles1 artificial piles of rock1 and a multitude of small ornaments--so esteemed1 by some--should never be introduced into the lawn of a farm house4 ,it is unmeaning1 in the first place2 expensive in its care1 in the second place2 unsatisfactory and annoying altogether4 ,such things about a farm establishment are neither dignified nor useful1 and should be left to town's-people1 having but a stinted appreciation of what constitutes natural beauty1 and wanting to make the most of the limited piece of ground of which they are possessed4 ,nor would we shut out1 by these remarks1 the beauty and odor of the flower-borders1 which are so appropriately the care of the good matron of the household and her comely daughters4 ,to them may be devoted a well-dug plat beneath the windows1 or in the garden4 ,enough1 and to spare1 they should always have1 of such cheerful1 life-giving pleasures4 ,we only object to their being strewed all over the ground1--a tussoc of plant here1 a patch of posey there1 and a scattering of both everywhere1 without either system or meaning4 ,they lower the dignity and simplicity of the country dwelling altogether4 ,the business approach to this house is1 of course1 toward the stables and carriage-house1 and from them should lead off the main farm-avenue4 ,the kitchen garden1 if possible1 should lie on the kitchen side of the house1 where1 also1 should be placed the bee-house1 in full sight from the windows1 that their labors and swarming may be watched4 ,in fact1 the entire economy of the farm house1 and its appendages1 should be brought close under the eye of the household1 to engage their care and watchfulness1 and to interest them in all the little associations and endearments--and they are many1 when properly studied out--which go to make agricultural life one of the most agreeable pursuits1 if not altogether so1 in which our lot in life may be cast4 ,a fruit-garden1 too1 should be a prominent object near this house4 ,we are now advancing somewhat into the elegances of agricultural life2 and although fruit trees1 and good fruits too1 should hold a strong place in the surroundings of even the humblest of all country places--sufficient1 at least1 for the ample use of the family--they have not yet been noticed1 to any extent1 in those already described4 ,it may be remarked1 that the fruit-garden--the orchard1 for market purposes1 is not here intended--should be placed in near proximity to the house4 ,all the small fruits1 for household use1 such as strawberries1 raspberries1 currants1 gooseberries1 blackberries1 grapes1 as well as apricots1 plums1 nectarines1 peaches1 pears1 apples1 quinces1 or whatever fruits may be cultivated1 in different localities1 should be close by1 for the convenience of collecting them1 and to protect them from destruction by vermin1 birds1 or the depredations of creatures called human4 ,a decided plan of arrangement for all the plantations and grounds1 should enter into the composition of the site for the dwelling1 out-houses1 gardens1 c41 as they are to appear when the whole establishment is completed2 and nothing left to accident1 chance1 or after-thought1 which can be disposed of at the commencement4 ,by the adoption of such a course1 the entire composition is more easily perfected1 and with infinitely greater expression of character1 than if left to the chance designs1 or accidental demands of the future4 ,another feature should be strictly enforced1 in the outward appointments of the farm house1--and that is1 the entire withdrawal of any use of the highway1 in its occupation by the stock of the farm1 except in leading them to and from its enclosures4 ,nothing looks more slovenly1 and nothing can be more unthrifty1 in an enclosed country1 than the running of farm stock in the highway4 ,what so untidy as the approach to a house1 with a herd of filthy hogs rooting about the fences1 basking along the sidewalk1 or feeding at a huge1 uncouth1 hollowed log1 in the road near the dwelling4 ,it may be out of place here to speak of it1 but this disgusting spectacle has so often offended our sight1 at the approach of an otherwise pleasant farm establishment1 that we cannot forego the opportunity to speak of it4 ,the road lying in front1 or between the different sections of the farm1 should be as well1 and as cleanly kept as any portion of the enclosures1 and it is equally a sin against good taste and neighborhood-morality1 to have it otherwise4 ,,tree-,,planting ,,in ,,the ,,highway4 ,this is frequently recommended by writers on country embellishment1 as indispensable to a finished decoration of the farm4 ,such may1 or may not be the fact4 ,trees shade the roads1 when planted on their sides1 and so they partially do the fields adjoining1 making the first muddy1 in bad weather1 by preventing the sun drying them1 and shading the crops of the last by their overhanging foliage1 in the season of their growth4 ,thus they are an evil1 in moist and heavy soils4 ,yet1 in light soils1 their shade is grateful to the highway traveler1 and not1 perhaps1 injurious to the crops of the adjoining field2 and when of proper kinds1 they add grace and beauty to the domain in which they stand4 ,we do not1 therefore1 indiscriminately recommend them1 but leave it to the discretion of the farmer1 to decide for himself1 having seen estates equally pleasant with1 and without trees on the roadside4 ,nothing1 however1 can be more beautiful than a clump of trees in a pasture-ground1 with a herd1 or a flock beneath them1 near the road2 or the grand and overshadowing branches of stately tree1 in a rich meadow1 leaning1 perhaps1 over the highway fence1 or flourishing in its solitary grandeur1 in the distance--each1 and all1 imposing features in the rural landscape4 ,all such should be preserved1 with the greatest care and solicitude1 as among the highest and most attractive ornaments which the farm can boast4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #aca-acb4 ,,design ,v4 ,we here present a dwelling of a more ambitious and pretending character than any one which we have1 as yet1 described1 and calculated for a large and wealthy farmer1 who indulges in the elegances of country life1 dispenses a liberal hospitality1 and is every way a country gentleman1 such as all our farmers of ample means should be4 ,it will answer the demands of the retired man of business as well2 and is1 perhaps1 as full in its various accommodation as an ,american farm or country house may require4 ,it claims no distinct style of architecture1 but is a composition agreeable in effect1 and appropriate to almost any part of the country1 and its climate4 ,its site may be on either hill or plain--with a view extensive1 or restricted4 ,it may look out over broad savannas1 cultivated fields1 and shining waters2 it may nestle amid its own quiet woods and lawn in its own selected shade and retirement1 or lord it over an extensive park1 ranged by herds and flocks1 meandered by its own stream1 spreading anon into the placid lake1 or rushing swiftly over its own narrow bed--an independent1 substantial1 convenient1 and well-conditioned home1 standing upon its own broad acres1 and comporting with the character and standing of its occupant1 among his friends and neighbors4 ,the main building is #ejx#dj feet in area upon the ground1 two stories high2 the ground story #aa feet high1 its floor elevated #b-a_/b or #c feet above the level of the surrounding surface1 as its position may demand2 the chambers #i feet high1 and running #b feet into the roof4 ,the rear wing is one and a half stories high1 #cfx#af feet2 the lower rooms #aa feet high1 with a one story lean-to range of closets1 and small rooms on the weather side1 #h feet in width and #i feet high4 ,in the rear of these is a wood-house1 #cjx#bj feet1 with #aj feet posts1 dropped to a level with the ground4 ,at the extremity of this is a building1 by way of an ,l1 #fjx#bj feet1 one and a half stories high1 with a lean-to1 #abx#cj feet1 in the rear4 ,the ground rooms of this are elevated #a-a_/b feet above the ground1 and #i feet high4 ,a broad roof covers the whole1 standing at an angle of #dj or #de;deg above a horizontal line1 and projecting widely over the walls1 #b-a_/b to #c feet on the main building1 and #b feet on the others1 to shelter them perfectly from the storms and damps of the weather4 ,a small cupola stands out of the ridge of the rear building1 which may serve as a ventilator to the apartments and lofts below1 and in it may be hung a bell1 to summon the household1 or the field laborers1 as the case may be1 to their duties or their meals4 ,the design1 as here shown1 is rather florid1 and perhaps profusely ornamental in its finish1 as comporting with the taste of the day2 but the cut and moulded trimmings may be left off by those who prefer a plain finish1 and be no detriment to the general effect which the deep friezes of the roofs1 properly cased beneath1 may give to it4 ,such1 indeed1 is our own taste2 but this full finish has been added1 to gratify such as wish the full ornament which this style of building may admit4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front of this house is accommodated by a porch1 or veranda1 #dj feet long1 and #aj feet wide1 with a central1 or entrance projection of #ah feet in length1 and #ab feet in width1 the floor of which is eight inches below the main floor of the house4 ,the wings1 or sides of this veranda may be so fitted up as to allow a pleasant conservatory on each side of the entrance area in winter1 by enclosing them with glass windows1 and the introduction of heat from a furnace under the main hall1 in the cellar of the house4 ,this would add to its general effect in winter1 and1 if continued through the summer1 would not detract from its expression of dignity and refinement4 ,from the veranda1 a door in the center of the front1 with two side windows1 leads into the main hall1 which is #bfx#ab feet in area1 two feet in the width of which is taken from the rooms on the right of the main entrance4 ,on the left of the hall a door opens into a parlor or drawing-room1 marked ,p1 #bj feet square1 with a bay window on one side1 containing three sashes1 and seats beneath4 ,a single window lights the front opening on to the veranda4 ,on the opposite side to this is the fireplace1 with blank walls on each side4 ,on the opposite side of the hall is a library1 #ahx#af feet1 with an end window1 and a corresponding one to the parlor1 in front1 looking out on the veranda4 ,in case these portions of the veranda1 opposite the two front windows are occupied as conservatories1 these windows should open to the floor1 to admit a walk immediately into them4 ,at the farther corner of the library a narrow door leads into an office1 or business apartment1 #abx#h feet1 and opening by a broad door1 the upper half of which is a lighted sash4 ,this door leads from the office out on a small porch1 with a floor and two columns1 #hx#e feet1 and nine feet high1 with a gable and double roof of the same pitch as the house4 ,between the chimney flues1 in the rear of this room may be placed an iron safe1 or chest for the deposit of valuable papers2 and1 although small1 a table and chairs sufficient to accommodate the business requirements of the occupant1 may be kept in it4 ,a chimney stands in the center of the inner wall of the library1 in which may be a fireplace1 or a flue to receive a stovepipe1 whichever may be preferred for warming the room4 ,near the hall side of the library a door opens into a passage leading into the family bedroom1 or nursery4 ,a portion of this passage may be shelved and fitted up as a closet for any convenient purpose4 ,the nursery is #ahx#af feet in size1 lighted by two windows4 ,it may have an open fireplace1 or a stove1 as preferred1 let into the chimney1 corresponding to that in the library4 ,these two chimneys may either be drawn together in the chambers immediately above1 or carried up separately into the garret1 and pass out of the roof in one stack1 or they maybe built in one solid mass from the cellar bottom2 but they are so placed here1 as saving room on the floors1 and equally accommodating1 in their separate divisions1 the stovepipes that may lead into them4 ,on the inner side of the nursery1 a door leads into a large closet1 or child's sleeping-room1 #ix#h feet2 or it may be used as a dressing-room1 with a sash inserted in the door to light it4 ,a door may also lead from it into the small rear entry of the house1 and thus pass directly out1 without communicating with the nursery4 ,on the extreme left corner of the nursery is a door leading into the back entry1 by which it communicates either with the rear porch1 the dining-room1 or the kitchen4 ,such a room we consider indispensable to the proper accommodation of a house in the country1 as saving a world of up-and-down-stairs' labor to her who is usually charged with the domestic cares and supervision of the family4 ,on the right of the main hall an ample staircase leads into the upper hall by a landing and broad stair at eight feet above the floor1 and a right-angled flight from that to the main floor above4 ,under this main hall staircase1 a door and stairs may lead into the cellar4 ,beyond the turning flight below1 a door leads into the back hall1 or entry1 already mentioned1 which is #acx#d feet in area1 which also has a side passage of #hx#d feet1 and a door leading to the rear porch1 and another into the kitchen at its farther side1 near the outer one4 ,opposite the turning flight of stairs1 in the main hall1 is also a door leading to the dining-room1 #bjx#af feet4 ,this is lighted by a large double window at the end4 ,a fireplace1 or stove flue is in the center wall1 and on each side a closet for plate1 or table furniture4 ,these closets come out flush with the chimney4 ,at the extreme right corner a door leads into the rear entry--or this may be omitted1 at pleasure4 ,another door in the rear wall leads into the kitchen1 past the passage down into the cellar--or this may be omitted1 if thought best4 ,still another door to the left1 opens into a large dining closet of the back lean-to apartments1 #hx#h feet4 ,this closet is lighted by a window of proper architectural size1 and fitted up with a suite of drawers1 shelves1 table1 and cupboards1 required for the preparation and deposit of the lighter family stores and edibles4 ,from this closet is also a door leading into the kitchen1 through which may be passed all the meats and cookery for the table1 either for safe-keeping1 or immediate service4 ,here the thrifty and careful housekeeper and her assistants may1 shut apart1 and by themselves1 get up1 fabricate1 and arrange all their table delicacies with the greatest convenience and privacy1 together with ease of access either to the dining-room or kitchen--an apartment most necessary in a liberally-arranged establishment4 ,from the rear entry opens a door to the kitchen1 passing by the rear chamber stairs4 ,this flight of stairs may be entered directly from the kitchen1 leading either to the chamber1 or under them1 into the cellar1 without coming into the passage connecting with the entry or dining-room1 if preferred4 ,in such case1 a broad stair of thirty inches in width should be next the door1 on which to turn1 as the door would be at right angles with the stairs1 either up or down4 ,the kitchen is #bjx#af feet1 and #aa feet high4 ,it has an outer door leading on the rear porch1 and a window on each side of that door2 also a window1 under which is a sink1 on the opposite side1 at the end of a passage four feet wide1 leading through the lean-to4 ,it has also an open fireplace1 and an oven by the side of it--old fashion4 ,it may be also furnished with a cooking range1 or stove--the smoke and fumes leading by a pipe into a flue into the chimney4 ,on the lean-to side is a milk or dairy-room1 #hx#h feet1 lighted by a window4 ,here also the kitchen furniture and meats may be stored in cupboards made for the purpose4 ,in rear of the kitchen1 and leading from it by a door through a lighted passage next the rear porch1 is the wash-room1 #afx#af feet1 lighted by a large window from the porch side4 ,a door also leads out of the rear on to a platform into the wood-house4 ,another door leads from the wash-room into a bath-room in the lean-to #hx#h feet1 into which warm water is drawn by a pipe and pump from the boiler in the wash-room2 or1 if preferred1 the bath-room may be entered from the main kitchen1 by the passage next the sink4 ,this bath-room is lighted by a window4 ,next to the bath-room is a bedroom for a man servant who has charge of the fires1 and heavy house-work1 wood1 c41 c4 ,this bedroom is also #hx#h feet1 and lighted by a window in the lean-to4 ,in front of this wash-room and kitchen is a porch1 eight inches below the floor1 six feet wide1 with a railing1 or not1 as may be preferred4 7,the railing is made in the cut47 ,a platform1 three feet wide1 leads from the back door of the wash-room to a water-closet for the family proper4 ,the wood-house is open in front1 with a single post supporting the center of the roof4 ,at the extreme outer angle is a water-closet for the domestics of the establishment4 ,adjoining the wood-house1 and opening from it into the ,l before mentioned1 is a workshop1 and small-tool-house1 #bjx#af feet1 lighted by a large double window at one end4 ,in this should be a carpenter's work-bench and tool-chest1 for the repairs of the farming utensils and vehicles4 ,overhead is a store-room for lumber1 or whatever else may be necessary for use in that capacity4 ,next to this is a granary or feed-room1 #bjx#aj feet1 with a small chimney in one corner1 where may be placed a boiler to cook food for pigs1 poultry1 c41 as the case may be4 ,here may also be bins for storage of grain and meal4 ,leading out of this is a flight of stairs passing to the chamber above1 and a passage four feet wide1 through the rear1 into a yard adjoining4 ,at the further end of the stairs a door opens into a poultry house1 #afx#aj feet1 including the stairs4 ,the poultry room is lighted at the extreme left corner1 by a broad window4 ,in this may be made roosts1 and nesting places1 and feeding troughs4 ,a low door under the window may be also made for the fowls in passing to the rear yard4 ,adjoining the granary1 and leading to it by a door1 is the carriage-house1 #bjx#bj feet1 at the gable end of which are large doors for entrance4 ,from the carriage-house is a broad passage of six feet1 into the stables1 which are #ab feet wide1 and occupy the lean-to4 ,this lean-to is eight feet high below the eaves1 with two double stalls for horses1 and a door leading into the side yard1 with the doors of the carriage-house4 ,a window also lights the rear of the stables4 ,a piggery #ab feet square occupies the remainder of the lean-to in rear of the poultry-house1 in which two or three pigs can always be kept1 and fatted on the offal of the house1 for small pork1 at any season1 apart from the swine stock of the farm4 ,a door leads out of the piggery into the rear yard1 where range also the poultry4 ,as the shed roof shuts down on to the pigsty and stables1 no loft above them is necessary4 ,in the loft over the granary1 poultry1 and carriage-house is deposited the hay1 put in there through the doors which appear in the design4 ,,chamber ,,plan4--,this is easily understood4 ,at the head of the stairs1 over the main hall1 is a large passage leading to the porch1 and opening by a door-window on the middle deck of the veranda1 which is nearly level1 and tinned1 or coppered1 water-tight1 as are also the two sides4 ,on either side of this upper hall is a door leading to the front sleeping chambers1 which are well closeted1 and spacious4 ,if it be desirable to construct more sleeping-rooms1 they can be partitioned laterally from the hall1 and doors made to enter them4 ,a rear hall is cut off from the front1 lighted by a window over the lower rear porch1 and a door leads into a further passage in the wing1 four feet wide1 which leads down a flight of stairs into the kitchen below4 ,at the head of this flight is a chamber #bjx#ab feet1 for the female domestic's sleeping-room1 in which may be placed a stove1 if necessary1 passing its pipe into the kitchen chimney which passes through it4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,it is also lighted by a window over the lean-to1 on the side4 ,back of this1 at the end of the passage1 is the sleeping-room1 #af feet square1 for the men-folks1 lighted on both sides by a window4 ,this may also be warmed1 if desired1 by a stove1 the pipe passing into the kitchen chimney4 ,the cellar may extend under the entire house and wing1 as convenience or necessity may require4 ,if it be constructed under the main body only1 an offset should be excavated to accommodate the cellar stairs1 three feet in width1 and walled in with the rest4 ,a wide1 outer passage1 with a flight of steps should also be made under the rear nursery window1 for taking in and passing out bulky articles1 with double doors to shut down upon it2 and partition walls should be built to support the partitions of the large rooms above4 ,many minor items of detail might be mentioned1 all of which are already treated in the general remarks1 under their proper heads1 in the body of the work1 and which cannot here be noticed--such as the mode of warming it1 the construction of furnaces1 c4 ,it may1 by some builders1 be considered a striking defect in the interior accommodation of a house of this character1 that the chief entrance hall should not be extended through1 from its front to the rear1 as is common in many of the large mansions of our country4 ,we object to the large1 open hall for more than one reason1 except1 possibly1 in a house for summer occupation only4 ,in the first place it is uncomfortable1 in subjecting the house to an unnecessary draught of air when it is not needed1 in cold weather4 ,secondly1 it cuts the house into two distinct parts1 making them inconvenient of access in crossing its wide surface4 ,thirdly1 it is uneconomical1 in taking up valuable room that can be better appropriated4 ,for summer ventilation it is unnecessary2 that may be given by simply opening the front door and a chamber window connected with the hall above1 through which a current of fresh air will always pass4 ,another thing1 the hall belongs to the front1 or dress part of the house1 and should be cut off from the more domestic and common apartments by a partition1 although accessible to them1 and not directly communicating with such apartments1 which cannot of necessity1 be in keeping with its showy and pretending character4 ,it should contain only the front flight of stairs1 as a part of its appointments1 besides the doors leading to its best apartments on the ground floor1 which should be centrally placed--its rear door being of a less pretending and subordinate character4 ,thus1 the hall1 with its open doors1 connecting the best rooms of the house on each side1 with its ample flight of stairs in the background1 gives a distinct expression of superiority in occupation to the other and humbler portions of the dwelling4 ,in winter1 too1 how much more snug and comfortable is the house1 shut in from the prying winds and shivering cold of the outside air1 which the opposite outer doors of an open hall cannot1 in their continual opening and shutting1 altogether exclude6 ,our own experience1 and1 we believe1 the experience of most housekeepers will readily concede its defects2 and after full reflection we have excluded it as both unnecessary and inconvenient4 ,another objection has been avoided in the better class of houses here presented1 which has crept into very many of the designs of modern builders2 which is1 that of using the living rooms of the family1 more or less1 as passages from the kitchen apartments in passing to and from the front hall1 or chief entrance4 ,such we consider a decided objection1 and hence arose1 probably1 the older plans of by-gone years1 of making the main hall reach back to the kitchen itself4 ,this is here obviated by a cutting up of the rear section of the hall1 by which a passage1 in all cases of the better kind of dwelling1 is preserved1 without encroaching upon the occupied rooms in passing out and in4 ,to be sure1 the front door is not the usual passage for the laborers or servants of the house1 but they are subject1 any hour of the day1 to be called there to admit those who may come1 and the continual opening of a private room for such purposes is most annoying4 ,therefore1 as matter of convenience1 and as a decided improvement on the designs above noticed1 we have adhered strictly to the separate rear passage4 ,the garret1 also1 as we have arranged our designs1 is either altogether left out1 or made a quite unimportant part of the dwelling4 ,it is but a lumber room1 at best2 and should be approached only by a flight of steps from a rear chamber or passage1 and used as a receptacle for useless traps1 or cast-off furniture1 seldom wanted4 ,it is hot in summer1 and cold in winter1 unfit for decent lodging to any human being in the house1 and of little account any way4 ,we much prefer running the chambers partially into the roof1 which we think gives them a more comfortable expression1 and admits of a better ventilation1 by carrying their ceilings higher without the expense of high body walls to the house1 which would give them an otherwise naked look4 ,if it be objected that thus running the chambers above the plates of the roof prevents the insertion of proper ties or beams to hold the roof plates together to prevent their spreading1 we answer1 that he must be a poor mechanic who cannot1 in framing the chamber partitions so connect the opposite plates as to insure them against all such difficulty4 ,a sheltered1 comfortable aspect is that which should distinguish every farm house1 and the cottage chamber is one of its chiefest characteristics2 and this can only be had by running such apartments into the roof1 as in our design4 ,,construction4 ,a house of this kind must1 according to its locality1 and the material of which it is built1 be liable to wide differences of estimate in its cost2 and from our own experience in such matters1 any estimate here made we know cannot be reliable as a rule for other localities1 where the prices of material and labor are different from our own4 ,where lumber1 stone1 and brick abound1 and each are to be had at reasonable prices1 the cost of an establishment of this kind would not vary much in the application of either one of these materials for the walls1 if well and substantially constructed4 ,there should be no sham1 nor slight1 in any part of the building4 ,as already observed1 the design shows a high degree of finish1 which1 if building for ourself1 we should not indulge in4 ,a plain style of cornice1 and veranda finish1 we should certainly adopt4 ,but the roof should not be contracted in its projecting breadth over the walls1 in any part of the structure--if anything1 it should be more extended4 ,the bay-window is an appendage of luxury1 only4 ,great care should be had1 in attaching its roof to the adjoining outer wall1 to prevent leakage of any kind4 ,if the walls be of brick1 or stone1 a beam or lintel of wood should be inserted in the wall over the window-opening1 quite two inches--three would be better--back from its outer surface1 to receive the casing of the window1 that the drip of the wall1 and the driving of the storms may fall over the connecting joints of the window roof1 beyond its point of junction with it4 ,such1 also1 should be the case with the intersection of the veranda or porch roof with the wall of the house1 wherever a veranda1 or porch is adopted2 as1 simply joined on to a flush surface1 as such appendages usually are--even if ever so well done--leakage and premature decay is inevitable4 ,the style of finish must1 of course1 influence1 in a considerable degree1 its cost4 ,it may1 with the plainest finish1 be done for #d1jjj1 and from that1 up to #f1jjj4 ,every one desirous to build1 should apply to the best mechanics of his neighborhood for information on that point1 as1 in such matters1 they are the best judges1 and from experience in their own particular profession1 of what the cost of building must be4 ,the rules and customs of housekeeping vary1 in different sections of the ,united ,states1 and the ,canadas4 ,these1 also1 enter into the estimates for certain departments of building1 and must be considered in the items of expenditure4 ,the manner in which houses should be warmed1 the ventilation1 accommodation for servants and laborers1 the appropriations to hospitality--all1 will have a bearing on the expense1 of which we cannot be the proper judge4 ,a sufficient time should be given1 to build a house of this character4 ,a house designed and built in a hurry1 is never a satisfactory house in its occupation4 ,a year is little enough1 and if two years be occupied in its design and construction1 the more acceptable will probably be its finish1 and the more comfort will be added in its enjoyment4 ,,grounds1 ,,plantations1 ,,and ,,surroundings4 ,a house of this kind should never stand in vulgar and familiar contact with the highway1 but at a distance from it of one hundred to a thousand yards2 or even1 if the estate on which it is built be extensive1 a much greater distance4 ,breadth of ground between the highway and the dwelling adds dignity and character to its appearance4 ,an ample lawn1 or a spreading park1 well shaded with trees1 should lay before it1 through which a well-kept avenue leads to its front1 and most frequented side4 ,the various offices and buildings of the farm itself1 should be at a respectable distance from it1 so as not to interfere with its proper keeping as a genteel country residence4 ,its occupant is not to be supposed as under the necessity of toiling with his daily laborers in the fields1 and therefore1 although he may be strictly a man of business1 he has sufficient employment in planning his work1 and managing his estate through a foreman1 in the various labor-occupations of the estate4 ,his horse may be at his door in the earliest morning hours1 that he may inspect his fields1 and give timely directions to his laborers1 or view his herds1 or his flocks1 before his breakfast hour2 or an early walk may take him to his stables1 his barns1 or to see that his previous directions are executed4 ,the various accommodation appurtenant to the dwelling1 makes ample provision for the household convenience of the family1 and the main business of the farm may be at some distance1 without inconvenience to the owner's every-day affairs4 ,consequently1 the indulgence of a considerable degree of ornament may be given1 in the surroundings of his dwelling1 which the occupant of a less extensive estate would neither require1 nor his circumstances warrant4 ,a natural forest of stately trees1 properly thinned out1 is the most appropriate spot on which to build a house of this character4 ,but that not at hand1 it should be set off with plantations of forest trees1 of the largest growth1 as in keeping with its own liberal dimensions4 ,a capacious kitchen garden should lead off from the rear apartments1 well stocked with all the family vegetables1 and culinary fruits1 in their proper seasons4 ,a luxuriant fruit-garden may flank the least frequented side of the house4 ,neat and tasteful flower beds may lie beneath the windows of the rooms appropriated to the leisure hours of the family1 to which the smaller varieties of shrubbery may be added1 separated from the chief lawn1 or park1 only by a wire fence1 or a simple railing1 such as not to cut up and checker its simple and dignified surface2 and all these shut in on the rear from the adjoining fields of the farm by belts of large shrubbery closely planted1 or the larger orchards1 thus giving it a style of its own1 yet showing its connection with the pursuits of the farm and its dependence upon it4 ,these various appointments1 however1 may be either carried out or restricted1 according to the requirements of the family occupying the estate1 and the prevailing local taste of the vicinity in which it is situated2 but no narrow or stingy spirit should be indicated in the general plan or in its execution4 ,every appointment connected with it should indicate a liberality of purpose in the founder1 without which its effect is painfully marred to the eye of the man of true taste and judgment4 ,small yards1 picketed in for small uses1 have no business in sight of the grounds in front1 and all minor concerns should be thrown into the rear1 beyond observation from the main approach to the dwelling4 ,the trees that shade the entrance park1 or lawn1 should be chiefly forest trees1 as the oak1 in its varieties1 the elm1 the maple1 the chestnut1 walnut1 butternut1 hickory1 or beech4 ,if the soil be favorable1 a few weeping willows may throw their drooping spray around the house2 and if exotic1 or foreign trees be permitted1 they should take their position in closer proximity to it than the natural forest trees1 as indicating the higher care and cultivation which attaches to its presence4 ,the ,lombardy poplar1 albeit a tree of disputed taste with modern planters1 we would now and then throw in1 not in stiff and formal rows1 as guarding an avenue1 but occasionally in the midst of a group of others1 above which it should rise like a church spire from amidst a block of contiguous houses--a cheerful relief to the monotony of the rounder-headed branches of the more spreading varieties4 ,if a stream of water meander the park1 or spread into a little pond1 trees which are partial to moisture should shadow it at different points1 and low1 water shrubs should hang over its border1 or even run into its margin4 ,aquatic herbs1 too1 may form a part of its ornaments1 and a boat-house1 if such a thing be necessary1 should1 under the shade of a hanging tree of some kind1 be a conspicuous object in the picture4 ,an overhanging rock1 if such a thing be native there1 may be an object of great attraction to its features1 and its outlet may steal away and be hid in a dense mass of tangled vines and brushwood4 ,the predominating1 natural features of the place should be cultivated1 not rooted out1 and metamorphosed into something foreign and unfamiliar4 ,it should1 in short1 be nature with her hair combed out straight1 flowing1 and graceful1 instead of pinched1 puffed1 and curling--a thing of luxuriance and beauty under the hand of a master4 ,the great difficulty with many ,americans in getting up a new place of any considerable extent is1 that they seem to think whatever is common1 or natural in the features of the spot must be so changed as to show1 above all others1 their own ingenuity and love of expense in fashioning it to their peculiar tastes4 ,rocks must be sunk1 or blasted1 trees felled1 and bushes grubbed1 crooked water-courses straightened--the place gibbeted and put into stocks2 in fact1 that their own boasted handiwork may rise superior to the wisdom of ,him who fashioned it in his own good pleasure2 forgetting that a thousand points of natural beauty upon the earth on which they breathe are ,when unadorned1 adorned the most2 and our eye has been frequently shocked at finding the choicest gems of nature sacrificed to a wanton display of expense in perverting1 to the indulgence of a mistaken fancy1 that1 which1 with an eye to truth and propriety1 and at a trifling expense1 might have become a spot of abiding interest and contentment4 ,,design ,,vi4 ,a ,,southern ,,or ,,plantation ,,house4--,the proprietor of a plantation in the ,south1 or ,south-west1 requires altogether a different kind of residence from the farmer of the ,northern1 or ,middle ,states4 ,he resides in the midst of his own principality1 surrounded by a retinue of dependents and laborers1 who dwell distant and apart from his own immediate family1 although composing a community requiring his daily care and superintendence for a great share of his time4 ,a portion of them are the attaches of his household1 yet so disconnected in their domestic relations1 as to require a separate accommodation1 and yet be in immediate contiguity with it1 and of course1 an arrangement of living widely different from those who mingle in the same circle1 and partake at the same board4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #aee-aef4 ,the usual plan of house-building at the ,south1 we are aware1 is to have detached servants' rooms1 and offices1 and a space of some yards of uncovered way intervene between the family rooms of the chief dwelling and its immediate dependents4 ,such arrangement1 however1 we consider both unnecessary and inconvenient2 and we have devised a plan of household accommodation which will bring the family of the planter himself1 and their servants1 although under different roofs1 into convenient proximity with each other4 ,a design of this kind is here given4 ,the style is mainly ,italian1 plain1 substantial1 yet1 we think1 becoming4 ,the broad veranda1 stretching around three sides1 including the front1 gives an air of sheltered repose to what might otherwise appear an ambitious structure2 and the connected apartments beyond1 show a quiet utility which divests it of an over attempt at display4 ,nothing has been attempted for appearance1 solely1 beyond what is necessary and proper in the dwelling of a planter of good estate1 who wants his domestic affairs well regulated1 and his family1 and servants duly provided with convenient accommodation4 ,the form of the main dwelling is nearly square1 upright1 with two full stories1 giving ample area of room and ventilation1 together with that appropriate indulgence to ease which the enervating warmth of a southern climate renders necessary4 ,the servants' apartments1 and kitchen offices are so disposed1 that while connected1 to render them easy of access1 they are sufficiently remote to shut off the familiarity of association which would render them obnoxious to the most fastidious--all1 in fact1 under one shelter1 and within the readiest call4 ,such should be the construction of a planter's house in the ,united ,states1 and such this design is intended to give4 ,a stable and carriage-house1 in the same style1 is near by1 not connected to any part of the dwelling1 as in the previous designs--with sufficient accommodation for coachman and grooms1 and the number of saddle and carriage horses that may be required for either business or pleasure2 and to it may be connected1 in the rear1 in the same style of building1 or plainer1 and less expensive1 further conveniences for such domestic animals as may be required for family use4 ,the whole stands in open grounds1 and may be separated from each other by enclosures1 as convenience or fancy may direct4 ,the roofs of all the buildings are broad and sweeping1 well protecting the walls from storm and frosts1 as well as the glaring influences of the sun1 and combining that comfortable idea of shelter and repose so grateful in a well-conditioned country house4 ,it is true1 that the dwelling might be more extensive in room1 and the purposes of luxury enlarged2 but the planter on five hundred1 or five thousand acres of land can here be sufficiently accommodated in all the reasonable indulgences of family enjoyment1 and a liberal1 even an elegant and prolonged hospitality1 to which he is so generally inclined4 ,the chimneys of this house1 different from those in the previous designs1 are placed next the outer walls1 thus giving more space to the interior1 and not being required1 as in the others1 to promote additional warmth than their fireplaces will give1 to the rooms4 ,a deck on the roof affords a pleasant look-out for the family from its top1 guarded by a parapet1 and giving a finish to its architectural appearance1 and yet making no ambitious attempt at expensive ornament4 ,it is1 in fact1 a plain1 substantial1 respectable mansion for a gentleman of good estate1 and nothing beyond it4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,this house stands #ejx#dj feet on the ground4 ,the front door opens from the veranda into a hall1 #bdx#ad feet1 in which is a flight of stairs leading to the chambers above4 ,on the left a door leads into a library1 or business room1 #agx#ag feet1 lighted by three windows4 ,a fireplace is inserted in the outer wall4 ,another door leads into a side hall1 six feet wide1 which separates the library from the dining-room1 which is also #agx#ag feet in area1 lighted and accommodated with a fireplace like the other1 with a door leading into it from the side hall1 and another door at the further right hand corner leading into the rear hall1 or entry4 ,on the right of the chief entrance hall1 opposite the library1 a door opens into the parlor or drawing-room1 #bcx#ai feet in area1 lighted by three windows1 and having a fireplace in the side wall4 ,a door leads from the rear side of the parlor into a commodious nursery1 or family bedroom1 #aix#af feet in size1 lighted by a window in each outer wall4 ,a fireplace is also inserted on the same line as in the parlor4 ,from the nursery a door leads into and through a large closet1 #ix#g feet1 into the rear hall4 ,this closet may also be used as a sleeping-room for the children1 or a confidential servant-maid1 or nurse1 or devoted to the storage of bed-linen for family use4 ,further on1 adjoining1 is another closet1 #gx#f feet1 opening from the rear hall1 and lighted by a window4 ,leading from the outer door of the rear hall is a covered passage six feet wide1 #af feet long1 and one and a half stories high1 leading to the kitchen offices1 and lighted by a window on the left1 with a door opening in the same side beyond1 on to the side front of the establishment4 ,on the right1 opposite1 a door leads on to the kitchen porch1 which is six feet wide1 passing on to the bath-room and water-closet1 in the far rear4 ,at the end of the connecting passage from the main dwelling1 a door opens into the kitchen1 which is #bdx#ah feet in size1 accommodated with two windows looking on to the porch just described4 ,at one end is an open fireplace with a cooking range on one side1 and an oven on the other4 ,at the left of the entrance door is a large1 commodious store-room and pantry1 #abx#i feet1 lighted by a window2 and adjoining it1 7and may be connected with it by a door1 if necessary17 a kitchen closet of the same size1 also connected by a corresponding door from the opposite corner of the kitchen4 ,between these doors is a flight of stairs leading to the sleeping-rooms above1 and a cellar passage beneath them4 ,in the farther right corner of the kitchen a door leads into a smaller closet1 #hx#f feet1 lighted by a small window looking on to the rear porch at the end4 ,a door at the rear of the kitchen leads out into the porch of the wash-room beyond1 which is six feet wide1 and another door into the wash-room itself1 which is #bjx#af feet1 and furnished with a chimney and boilers4 ,a window looks out on the extreme right hand1 and two windows on to the porch in front4 ,a door opens from its rear wall into the wood-house1 #cbx#ab feet1 which stands open on two sides1 supported by posts1 and under the extended roof of the wash-room and its porch just mentioned4 ,a servants' water-closet is attached to the extreme right corner of the wood-house1 by way of lean-to4 ,the bath-room is #ajx#f feet in area1 and supplied with water from the kitchen boilers adjoining4 ,the water-closet beyond is #f feet square1 and architecturally1 in its roof1 may be made a fitting termination to that of the porch leading to it4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,the main flight of stairs in the entrance hall leads on to a broad landing in the spacious upper hall1 from which doors pass into the several chambers1 which may be duly accommodated with closets4 ,the passage connecting with the upper story of the servants' offices1 opens from the rear section of this upper hall1 and by the flight of rear stairs communicates with the kitchen and out-buildings4 ,a garret flight of steps may be made in the rear section of the main upper hall1 by which that apartment may be reached1 and the upper deck of the roof ascended4 ,the sleeping-rooms of the kitchen may be divided off as convenience may dictate1 and the entire structure thus appropriated to every accommodation which a well-regulated family need require4 ,illustration3 ,,carriage ,,house4 ,the carriage-house is #dhx#bd feet in size1 with a projection of five feet on the entrance front1 the door of which leads both into the carriage-room and stables4 ,on the right is a bedroom1 #ajx#h feet1 for the grooms1 lighted by a window2 and beyond are six stalls for horses1 with a window in the rear wall beyond them4 ,a flight of stairs leads to the hayloft above4 ,in the rear of the carriage-room is a harness-room1 #abx#d feet1 and a granary of the same size1 each lighted by a window4 ,if farther attachments be required for the accommodation of out-building conveniences1 they may be continued indefinitely in the rear4 ,,miscellaneous4 ,it may strike the reader that the house just described has a lavish appropriation of veranda1 and a needless side-front1 which latter may detract from the precise architectural keeping that a dwelling of this pretension should maintain4 ,in regard to the first1 it may be remarked1 that no feature of the house in a southern climate can be more expressive of easy1 comfortable enjoyment1 than a spacious veranda4 ,the habits of southern life demand it as a place of exercise in wet weather1 and the cooler seasons of the year1 as well as a place of recreation and social intercourse during the fervid heats of the summer4 ,indeed1 many southern people almost live under the shade of their verandas4 ,it is a delightful place to take their meals1 to receive their visitors and friends2 and the veranda gives to a dwelling the very expression of hospitality1 so far as any one feature of a dwelling can do it4 ,no equal amount of accommodation can be provided for the same cost4 ,it adds infinitely to the room of the house itself1 and is1 in fact1 indispensable to the full enjoyment of a southern house4 ,the side front in this design is simply a matter of convenience to the owner and occupant of the estate1 who has usually much office business in its management2 and in the almost daily use of his library1 where such business may be done1 a side door and front is both appropriate and convenient4 ,the chief front entrance belongs to his family and guests1 and should be devoted to their exclusive use2 and as a light fence may be thrown off from the extreme end of the side porch1 separating the front lawn from the rear approach to the house1 the veranda on that side may be reached from its rear end1 for business purposes1 without intruding upon the lawn at all4 ,so we would arrange it4 ,objections may be made to the sameness of plan1 in the arrangement of the lower rooms of the several designs which we have submitted1 such as having the nursery1 or family sleeping-room1 on the main floor of the house1 and the uniformity1 in location1 of the others2 and that there are no new and striking features in them4 ,the answer to these may be1 that the room appropriated for the nursery1 or bedroom1 may be used for other purposes1 equally as well2 that when a mode of accommodation is already as convenient as may be1 it is poorly worth while to make it less convenient1 merely for the sake of variety2 and1 that utility and convenience are the main objects to be attained in any well-ordered dwelling4 ,these two requisites1 utility and convenience1 attained1 the third and principal one--comfort--is secured4 ,cellar kitchens--the most abominable nuisances that ever crept into a country dwelling--might have been adopted1 no doubt1 to the especial delight of some who know nothing of the experimental duties of housekeeping2 but the recommendation of these is an offence which we have no stomach to answer for hereafter4 ,steep1 winding1 and complicated staircases might have given a new feature to one or another of the designs2 dark closets1 intricate passages1 unique cubby-holes1 and all sorts of inside gimcrackery might have amused our pencil2 but we have avoided them1 as well as everything which would stand in the way of the simplest1 cheapest1 and most direct mode of reaching the object in view3 a convenient1 comfortably-arranged dwelling within1 having a respectable1 dignified appearance without--and such1 we trust1 have been thus far presented in our designs4 ,,lawn1 ,,and ,,park ,,surroundings4 ,the trees and shrubbery which ornament the approach to this house1 should be rather of the graceful varieties1 than otherwise4 ,the weeping-willow1 the horse-chesnut1 the mountain-ash1 if suitable to the climate2 or the china-tree of the south1 or the linden1 the weeping-elm1 and the silver-maple1 with its long slender branches and hanging leaves1 would add most to the beauty1 and comport more closely with the character of this establishment1 than the more upright1 stiff1 and unbending trees of our ,american forests4 ,the ,lombardy-poplar--albeit1 an object of fashionable derision with many tree-fanciers in these more tasty days1 as it was equally the admiration of our fathers1 of forty years ago--would set off and give effect to a mansion of this character1 either in a clump at the back-ground1 as shown in the design1 or occasionally shooting up its spire-like top through a group of the other trees4 ,yet1 if built in a fine natural park or lawn of oaks1 with a few other trees1 such as we have named1 planted immediately around it1 this house would still show with fine effect4 ,the style of finish given to this dwelling may appear too ornate and expensive for the position it is supposed to occupy4 ,if so1 a plainer mode of finish may be adopted1 to the cheapest degree consistent with the manner of its construction4 ,still1 on examination1 there will be found little intricate or really expensive work upon it4 ,strength1 substance1 durability1 should all enter into its composition2 and without these elements1 a house of this appearance is a mere bauble1 not fit to stand upon the premises of any man of substantial estate4 ,if a more extensive accommodation be necessary1 than the size of this house can afford1 its style will admit of a wing1 of any desirable length1 on each side1 in place of the rear part of the side verandas1 without prejudice to its character or effect4 ,indeed1 such wings may add to its dignity1 and consequence1 as comporting with the standing and influence which its occupant may hold in the community wherein he resides4 ,a man of mark1 indeed1 should1 if he live in the country1 occupy a dwelling somewhat indicating the position which he holds1 both in society and in public affairs4 ,by this remark1 we may be treading on questionable ground1 in our democratic country2 but1 practically1 there is a fitness in it which no one can dispute4 ,not that extravagance1 pretension1 or any other assumption of superiority should mark the dwelling of the distinguished man1 but that his dwelling be of like character with himself3 plain1 dignified1 solid1 and1 as a matter of course1 altogether respectable4 ,it is a happy feature in the composition of our republican institutions1 both social and political1 that we can afford to let the flashy men of the day--not of time--flaunter in all their purchased fancy in house-building1 without prejudice to the prevailing sober sentiment of their neighbors1 in such particulars4 ,the man of money1 simply1 may build his villa1 and squander his tens of thousands upon it4 ,he may riot within it1 and fidget about it for a few brief years2 he may even hang his coat of arms upon it1 if he can fortunately do so without stumbling over a lapstone1 or greasing his coat against the pans of a cook-shop2 but it is equally sure that no child of his will occupy it after him1 even if his own changeable fancy or circumstances permit him to retain it for his natural life4 ,such are the episodes of country house-building1 and of frequent attempts at agricultural life1 by those who affect it as a matter of ostentation or display4 ,for the subjects of these1 we do not write4 ,but there is something exceedingly grateful to the feelings of one of stable views in life1 to look upon an estate which has been long in an individual family1 still maintaining its primitive character and respectability4 ,some five-and-twenty years ago1 when too young to have any established opinions in matters of this sort1 as we were driving through one of the old farming towns in ,massachusetts1 about twenty miles west of ,boston1 we approached a comfortable1 well-conditioned farm1 with a tavern-house upon the high road1 and several great elms standing about it4 ,the road passed between two of the trees1 and from a cross-beam1 lodged across their branches1 swung a large square sign1 with names and dates painted upon it--name and date we have forgotten2 it was a good old ,puritan name1 however--in this wise3 ,john ,endicott1 #afeb4 ,john ,endicott1 #afif4 ,john ,endicott1 #agdi4 ,john ,endicott1 #aghd4 ,john ,endicott1 #ahag4 ,as our eyes read over this list1 we were struck with the stability of a family who for many consecutive generations had occupied1 by the same name1 that venerable spot1 and ministered to the comfort of as many generations of travelers1 and incontinently took off our hat in respect to the record of so much worth1 drove our horse under the shed1 had him fed1 went in1 and took a quiet family dinner with the civil1 good-tempered host1 and the equally kind-mannered hostess1 then in the prime of life1 surrounded with a fine family of children1 and heard from his own lips the history of his ancestors1 from their first emigration from ,england--not in the ,mayflower1 to whose immeasurable accommodations our good ,new ,england ancestors are so prone to refer--but in one of her early successors4 ,all over the old thirteen states1 from ,maine to ,georgia1 can be found agricultural estates now containing families1 the descendants of those who founded them--exceptions to the general rule1 we admit1 of ,american stability of residence1 but none the less gratifying to the contemplation of those who respect a deep love of home1 wherever it may be found4 ,for the moral of our episode on this subject1 we cannot refrain from a description of a fine old estate which we have frequently seen1 minus now the buildings which then existed1 and long since supplanted by others equally respectable and commodious1 and erected by the successor of the original occupant1 the late ,dr4 ,boylston1 of ,roxbury1 who long made the farm his summer residence4 ,the description is from an old work1 ,the ,history of the ,county of ,worcester1 in the ,state of ,massachusetts1 by the ,rev4 ,peter ,whitney1 #agic3 ,many of the houses 7in ,princeton17 are large and elegant4 ,this leads to a particular mention1 that in this town is the country seat of the ,hon4 ,moses ,gill1 ,esq41 7',honorable' meant something in those days17 who has been from the year #agge one of the ,judges of the ,court of ,common ,pleas for the county of ,worcester1 and for several years a counsellor of this commonwealth4 ,his noble and elegant seat is about one mile and a quarter from the meeting-house1 to the south4 ,the farm contains upwards of three thousand acres4 ,the county road from ,princeton to ,worcester passes through it1 in front of the house1 which faces to the west4 ,the buildings stand upon the highest land of the whole farm2 but it is level round about them for many rods1 and then there is a very gradual descent4 ,the land on which these buildings stand is elevated between twelve hundred and thirteen hundred feet above the level of the sea1 as the ,hon4 ,james ,winthrop1 ,esq4 informs me4 ,the mansion house is large1 being #ejx#ej feet1 with four stacks of chimnies4 ,the farm house is #dj feet by #cf3 ,in a line with this stand the coach and chaise-house1 #ej feet by #cf4 ,this is joined to the barn by a shed #gj feet in length--the barn is #bjj feet by #cb4 ,very elegant fences are erected around the mansion house1 the out-houses1 and the garden4 ,the prospect from this seat is extensive and grand1 taking in a horizon to the east1 of seventy miles1 at least4 ,the blue hills in ,milton are discernible with the naked eye1 from the windows of this superb edifice1 distant not less than sixty miles2 as also the waters in the harbor of ,boston1 at certain seasons of the year4 ,when we view this seat1 these buildings1 and this farm of so many hundred acres1 now under a high degree of profitable cultivation1 and are told that in the year #agff it was a perfect wilderness1 we are struck with wonder1 admiration1 and astonishment4 ,the honorable proprietor thereof must have great satisfaction in contemplating these improvements1 so extensive1 made under his direction1 and1 ,i may add1 by his own active industry4 ,judge ,gill is a gentleman of singular vivacity and activity1 and indefatigable in his endeavors to bring forward the cultivation of his lands2 of great and essential service1 by his example1 in the employment he finds for so many persons1 and in all his attempts to serve the interests of the place where he dwells1 and in his acts of private munificence1 and public generosity1 and deserves great respect and esteem1 not only from individuals1 but from the town and country he has so greatly benefited1 and especially by the ways in which he makes use of that vast estate wherewith a kind ,providence has blessed him4 ,such was the estate1 and such the man who founded and enjoyed it sixty years ago2 and many an equal estate1 founded and occupied by equally valuable men1 then existed1 and still exist in all our older states2 and if our private and public virtues are preserved1 will ever exist in every state of our union4 ,such pictures1 too1 are forcible illustrations of the morals of correct building on the ample estates of many of our ,american planters and farmers4 ,the mansion house1 which is so graphically described1 we saw but a short time before it was pulled down--then old1 and hardly worth repairing1 being built of wood1 and of style something like this design of our own1 bating the extent of veranda4 ,the cost of this house may be from #ejjj to #hjjj1 depending upon the material of which it is constructed1 the degree of finish given to it1 and the locality where it is built4 ,all these circumstances are to be considered1 and the estimates should be made by practical and experienced builders1 who are competent judges in whatever appertains to it4 ,illustration3 ,,farm ,,house4 ,pages #agc-agd4 ,,design ,,vii4 ,a ,,plantation ,,house4--,another southern house is here presented1 quite different in architectural design from the last1 plain1 unpretending1 less ornate in its finish1 as well as less expensive in construction4 ,it may occupy a different site1 in a hilly1 wooded country of rougher surface1 but equally becoming it1 as the other would more fitly grace the level prairie1 or spreading plain in the more showy luxury of its character4 ,this house stands #dfx#dd feet on the ground1 two stories high1 with a full length veranda1 #aj feet wide in front1 and a half length one above it1 connecting with the main roof by an open gable1 under which is a railed gallery for summer repose or recreation1 or to enjoy the scenery upon which it may open4 ,the roof is broad and overhanging1 thoroughly sheltering the walls1 and giving it a most protected1 comfortable look4 ,covering half the rear is a lean-to1 with shed roof1 #af feet wide1 communicating with the servants' offices in the wing1 the hall of which opens upon a low veranda on its front1 and leading to the minor conveniences of the establishment4 ,the main servants' building is #cjx#bj feet1 one and a half stories high1 with a roof in keeping with the main dwelling1 and a chimney in the center4 ,in rear of this is attached a wood-house1 with a shed roof1 thus sloping off1 and giving it a reposed1 quiet air from that point of view4 ,a narrow porch1 #bc feet long and #h feet wide1 also shades the remaining rear part of the main dwelling1 opening on to the approach in rear4 ,illustration3 ,,ground ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door opens into a hall #cd feet long and #aj feet wide1 with a flight of stairs4 ,on the left of this opens a parlor or dining-room1 #bbx#ah feet1 lighted by two windows in front and one on the side1 and connecting with the dining-room beyond1 which is #ahx#af feet1 with two small dining closets between4 ,the dining-room has two windows opening on to the rear veranda4 ,under the cross flight of stairs in the hall1 a partition separates it from the rear hall1 into which is a door4 ,on the right of the entrance hall is a library1 #ahx#ah feet1 lighted by three windows4 ,at the farther end is a closet1 and by the side of it a small entry leading into the nursery or family bedroom1 #ahx#ae feet in size1 which also has a corresponding closet with the library4 ,on the rear of the nursery is a flight of back stairs opening from it4 ,under these stairs1 at the other end1 a door opens to another flight leading into the cellar below4 ,a door also leads out from the nursery into the rear passage1 to the offices2 another door on the further side of the room opens into the rear hall of the house4 ,the nursery should have two windows1 but the drawing1 by an error1 gives only one4 ,from this rear hall a door opens on the rear veranda1 and another into the passage to the rear offices4 ,this passage is six feet wide and #cd feet long1 opening at its left end on to the veranda1 and on the right1 to the servants' porch1 and from its rear side into three small rooms1 #aj feet square each1 the outer one of which may be a business room for the proprietor of the estate2 the next1 a store-room for family supplies2 and the other a kitchen closet4 ,each of these is lighted by a window on the rear4 ,a door also leads from the rear passage into the kitchen1 #bjx#af feet in area1 with a window looking out in front and two others on the side and rear1 and a door into the wood-house4 ,in this is placed a large chimney for the cooking establishment1 oven1 c41 c4 ,a flight of stairs and partition divides this from the wash-room1 which is #adx#ad feet1 with two windows in the side1 and a door into the wood-house4 ,this wood-house is open on two sides1 and a water-closet is in the far corner4 ,the small veranda1 which is six feet wide1 fronting the kitchen apartments1 opens into the bath-room1 #ix#f feet1 into which the water is drawn from the kitchen boilers in the adjoining chimney4 ,still beyond this is the entrance to the water-closets1 #fx#e feet4 ,illustration3 ,,chamber ,,plan4 ,the chamber plan is simple1 and will be readily comprehended4 ,if more rooms are desirable1 they can be cut off from the larger ones4 ,a flight of garret stairs may also be put in the rear chamber hall4 ,the main hall of the chambers1 in connection with the upper veranda1 may be made a delightful resort for the summer1 where the leisure hours of the family may be passed in view of the scenery which the house may command1 and thus made one of its most attractive features4 ,,miscellaneous4 ,we have given less veranda to this house than to the last1 because its style does not require it1 and it is a cheaper and less pains-taking establishment throughout1 although1 perhaps1 quite as convenient in its arrangement as the other4 ,the veranda may1 however1 be continued round the two ends of the house1 if required4 ,a screen1 or belt of privet1 or low evergreens may be planted in a circular form from the front right-hand corner of the dwelling1 to the corresponding corner of the rear offices1 enclosing a clothes drying yard1 and cutting them off from too sightly an exposure from the lawn in front4 ,the opposite end of the house1 which may be termed its business front1 may open to the every-day approach to the house1 and be treated as convenience may determine4 ,for the tree decoration of this establishment1 evergreens may come in for a share of attraction4 ,their conical1 tapering points will correspond well with its general architecture1 and add strikingly to its effect2 otherwise the remarks already given on the subject of park and lawn plantation will suffice4 ,as1 however1 in the position where this establishment is supposed to be erected1 land is plenty1 ample area should be appropriated to its convenience1 and no pinched or parsimonious spirit should detract from giving it the fullest effect in an allowance of ground4 ,nor need the ground devoted to such purposes be at all lost1 or unappropriated2 various uses can be made of it1 yielding both pleasure and profit1 to which a future chapter will refer2 and it is one of the chief pleasures of retired residence to cultivate1 in the right place1 such incidental objects of interest as tend to gratify1 as well as to instruct1 in whatever appertains to the elevation of our thoughts1 and the improvement of our condition4 ,all these1 in their place1 should be drawn about our dwellings1 to render them as agreeable and attractive as our ingenuity and labor may command4 ,,lawns1 ,,grounds1 ,,parks1 ,,and ,,woods4 ,having essayed to instruct our agricultural friends in the proper modes of erecting their houses1 and providing for their convenient accommodation within them1 a few remarks may be pardoned touching such collateral subjects of embellishment as may be connected with the farm residence in the way of plantations and grounds in their immediate vicinity4 ,we are well aware that small farms do not permit any considerable appropriation of ground to waste purposes1 as such spots are usually called which are occupied with wood1 or the shade of open trees1 near the dwelling4 ,but no dwelling can be complete in all its appointments without trees in its immediate vicinity4 ,this subject has perhaps been sufficiently discussed in preceding chapters2 yet1 as a closing course of remark upon what a farm house1 greater or less in extent1 should be in the amount of shade given to it1 a further suggestion or two may be permitted4 ,there are1 in almost all places1 in the vicinity of the dwelling1 portions of ground which can be appropriated to forest trees without detriment to other economical uses1 if applied in the proper way4 ,any one who passes along a high road and discovers the farm house1 seated on the margin or in the immediate vicinity of a pleasant grove1 is immediately struck with the peculiarly rural and picturesque air which it presents1 and thinks to himself that he should love such a spot for his own home1 without reflecting that he might equally as well create one of the same character4 ,sites already occupied1 where different dispositions are made of contiguous ground1 may not admit of like advantages2 and such are to be continued in their present arrangement1 with such course of improvement as their circumstances will admit4 ,but to such as are about to select the sites of their future homes1 it is important to study what can best embellish them in the most effective shade and ornament4 ,in the immediate vicinity of our large towns and cities it is seldom possible to appropriate any considerable breadth of land to ornamental purposes1 excepting rough and unsightly waste ground1 more or less occupied with rock or swamp2 or plainer tracts1 so sterile as to be comparatively worthless for cultivation4 ,such grounds1 too1 often lie bare of wood1 and require planting1 and a course of years to cover them with trees1 even if the proprietor is willing1 or desirous to devote them to such purpose4 ,still1 there are vast sections of our country where to economize land is not important1 and a mixed occupation of it to both ornament and profit may be indulged to the extent of the owner's disposition4 ,all over the ,united ,states there are grand and beautiful sweeps and belts of cultivated country1 interspersed with finely-wooded tracts1 which offer the most attractive sites for the erection of dwellings on the farms which embrace them1 and that require only the eye and hand of taste to convert them1 with slight labor1 into the finest-wooded lawns and forested parks imaginable4 ,no country whatever produces finer trees than ,north ,america4 ,the evergreens of the north luxuriate in a grandeur scarcely known elsewhere1 and shoot their cones into the sky to an extent that the stripling pines and firs1 and larches of ,england in vain may strive to imitate4 ,the elm of ,new ,england towers up1 and spreads out its sweeping arms with a majesty unwonted in the ancient parks or forests of ,europe2 while its maples1 and birches1 and beeches1 and ashes1 and oaks1 and the great white-armed buttonwood1 make up a variety of intervening growth1 luxuriant in the extreme4 ,pass on through the ,middle ,states1 and into the far west1 and there they still flourish with additional kinds--the tulip and poplar--the nut-trees1 in all their wide variety1 with a host of others equally grand and imposing1 interspersed2 and shrub-trees innumerable1 are seen every where as they sweep along your path4 ,beyond the ,alleghanies1 and south of the great lakes1 are vast natural parks1 many of them enclosed1 and dotted with herds of cattle ranging over them1 which will show single trees1 and clumps of forest that ,william the ,conqueror would have given a whole fiefdom in his ,hampshire spoliations to possess2 while1 stretching away toward the ,gulf of ,mexico1 new varieties of tree are found1 equally imposing1 grand1 and beautiful1 throughout the whole vast range1 and in almost every locality1 susceptible of the finest possible appropriation to ornament and use4 ,many a one of these noble forests1 and open1 natural parks have been appropriated already to embellish the comfortable family establishment which has been built either on its margin1 or within it2 and thousands more are standing1 as yet unimproved1 but equally inviting the future occupant to their ample protection4 ,the moral influences1 too1 of lawns and parks around or in the vicinity of our dwellings1 are worthy of consideration4 ,secluded as many a country dweller may be1 away from the throng of society1 there is a sympathy in trees which invites our thoughts1 and draws our presence among them with unwonted interest1 and in frequent cases1 assist materially in stamping the feelings and courses of our future lives--always with pure and ennobling sentiments-- ,the groves were ,god's first temples4 ,the thoughtful man1 as he passes under their sheltering boughs1 in the heat of summer1 with uncovered brow1 silently worships the ,hand that formed them there1 scarcely conscious that their presence thus elevates his mind to holy aspirations4 ,among them1 the speculative man ,finds tongues in trees1 books in the running brooks1 ,sermons in stones4 ,even children1 born and educated among groves of trees1 drink in early impressions1 which follow them for good all their days2 and1 when the toils of their after life are passed1 they love to return to these grateful coverts1 and spend their remaining days amid the tranquillity of their presence4 ,men habituated to the wildest life1 too1 enjoy the woods1 the hills1 and the mountains1 beyond all the captivation and excitement of society1 and are nowhere at rest1 but when in their communion4 ,the love of forest scenery is a thing to be cultivated as a high accomplishment1 in those whose early associations have not been among them4 ,indeed1 country life is tame1 and intolerable1 without a taste1 either natural or acquired1 for fine landscape scenery2 and in a land like this1 where the country gives occupation to so great a proportion of its people1 and a large share of those engaged in the active and exciting pursuits of populous towns1 sigh and look forward to its enjoyment1 every inducement should be offered to cultivate a taste for those things which make one of its chief attractions4 ,nor should seclusion from general society1 and a residence apart from the bustling activity of the world1 present a bar to the due cultivation of the taste in many subjects supposed to belong only to the throng of association4 ,it is one of the advantages of rural life1 that it gives us time to think2 and the greatest minds of whose labors in the old world we have had the benefit1 and of later times1 in our own land1 have been reared chiefly in the solitude of the country4 ,patrick ,henry loved to range among the woods1 admiring the leafy magnificence of nature1 and to follow the meandering courses of the brooks1 with his hook and line4 ,washington1 when treading the vast solitudes of central ,virginia1 with his surveyor's instruments on his back1 conceived the wonderful resources of the great empire of which he will ever be styled the father4 ,the dwelling of the late ,john ,c4 ,calhoun1 sheltered by noble trees1 stands on an elevated swell of a grand range of mountain land1 and it was there that his prolific genius ripened for those burning displays of thought which drew to him the affections of admiring thousands4 ,henry ,clay undoubtedly felt the germ of his future greatness while sauntering1 in his boyhood days1 through the wild and picturesque slashes of ,hanover4 ,webster1 born amid the rugged hills of ,new ,hampshire1 drew the delightful relish of rural life1 for which he is so celebrated1 from the landscapes which surrounded his early home1 and laid the foundation of his mighty intellect in the midst of lone and striking scenery4 ,bryant could never have written his ,thanatopsis1 his ,rivulet1 and his ,green ,river1 but from the inspiration drawn from his secluded youthful home in the mountains of ,massachusetts4 ,nor1 to touch a more sacred subject1 could ,jonathan ,edwards ever have composed his masterly ,treatise on the ,will1 in a pent-up city2 but owes his enduring fame to the thought and leisure which he found1 while ministering1 among the sublime mountains of the ,housatonic1 to a feeble tribe of ,stockbridge ,indians4 ,and these random names are but a few of those whose love of nature early imbibed1 and in later life enjoyed in their own calm and retired homes1 amid the serene beauty of woods and waters1 which might be named1 as illustrations of the influence which fine scenery may exercise upon the mind1 to assist in moulding it to greatness4 ,the following anecdote was told us many years ago1 by a venerable man in ,connecticut1 a friend of the elder ,hillhouse1 of ,new ,haven1 to whom that city is much indebted for the magnificent trees by which it has become renowned as the ,city of the ,elms3 ,while a member of the ,general ,assembly of that state1 when ,hillhouse was in ,congress1 learning that he had just returned home from the annual session1 our informant1 with a friend1 went to the residence of the statesman1 to pay him a visit4 ,he had returned only that morning1 and on their way there1 they met him near his house1 with a stout young tree on his shoulder1 just taken from a neighboring piece of forest1 which he was about to transplant in the place of one which had died during his absence4 ,after the usual salutations1 our friend expressed his surprise that he was so soon engaged in tree-planting1 before he had even had time to look to his private and more pressing affairs4 ,another day may be too late1 replied the senator2 my tree well planted1 it will grow at its leisure1 and ,i can then look to my own concerns at my ease4 ,so1 gentlemen1 if you will just wait till the tree is set1 we'll walk into the house1 and settle the affairs of state in our own way4 ,walter ,scott1 whose deep love of park and forest scenery has stamped with his masterly descriptions1 his native land as the home of all things beautiful and useful in trees and plantations1 spent a great share of his leisure time in planting1 and has written a most instructive essay on its practice and benefits4 ,he puts into the mouth of the ,laird of ,dumbiedikes1 the advice1 ,be aye sticking in a tree1 ,jock2 it will be growing while you are sleeping4 ,but ,walter ,scott had no ,american soil to plant his trees upon2 nor do the grandest forest parks of ,scotland show a tithe of the luxuriance and majesty of our ,american forests4 ,could he but have seen the variety1 the symmetry1 and the vast size of our oaks1 and elms1 and evergreens1 a new element of descriptive power would have grown out of the admiration they had created within him2 and he would have envied a people the possession of such exhaustless resources as we enjoy1 to embellish their homes in the best imaginable manner1 with such enduring monuments of grace and beauty4 ,to the miscellaneous1 or casual reader1 such course of remark may appear merely sublimated nonsense4 ,no matter2 we are not upon stilts1 talking down to a class of inferior men1 in a condescending tone1 on a subject above their comprehension2 but we are addressing men1 and the sons of men1 who are our equals--although1 like ourself1 upon their farms1 taking their share in its daily toils1 as well as pleasures--and can perfectly well understand our language1 and sympathize with our thoughts4 ,they are the thoughts of rural life everywhere4 ,it was old ,sam ,johnson1 the great lexicographer1 who lumbered his unwieldy gait through the streets of cities for a whole life1 and with all his vast learning and wisdom1 had no appreciation of the charms of the country1 that said1 ,who feeds fat cattle should himself be fat2 as if the dweller on the farm should not possess an idea above the brutes around him4 ,we wonder if he ever supposed a merchant should have any more brain than the parcel that he handled1 or the bale which he rolled1 or directed others to roll for him6 ,but1 loving the solitude of the farm1 and finding a thousand objects of interest and beauty scattered in profusion1 where those educated among artificial objects would see nothing beyond things1 to them1 vulgar and common-place1 in conversing with our rural friends upon what concerns their daily comfort1 and is to constitute the nursery of those who succeed them1 and on the influences which may1 in a degree1 stamp their future character1 we cannot forbear such suggestions1 connected with the family ,home1 as may induce them to cultivate all those accessories around it1 which may add to their pleasure and contentment4 ,we believe it was ,keats1 who said1 ,a thing of ,beauty is a joy for ever4 ,and the thought that such beauty has been of our own creation1 or that our own hands have assisted in its perpetuation1 should certainly be a deep joy of our life4 ,we have remarked1 that the farm house is the chief nursery on which our broad country must rely for that healthy infusion of stamina and spirit into those men who1 under our institutions1 guide its destiny and direct its councils4 ,they1 in the great majority of their numbers1 are natives of the retired homestead4 ,it is1 therefore1 of high consequence1 that good taste1 intelligence1 and correct judgment1 should enter into all that surrounds the birth-place1 and early scenes of those who are to be the future actors in the prominent walks of life1 either in public or private capacity2 and as the love of trees is one of the leading elements of enjoyment amid the outward scenes of country-life1 we commend most heartily all who dwell in the pure air and bright sunshine of the open land to their study and cultivation4 ,every man who lives in the country1 be he a practical farmer or not1 should plant trees1 more or less4 ,the father of a family should plant1 for the benefit of his children1 as well as for his own4 ,the bachelor and the childless man should plant1 if for nothing more than to show that he has left some living thing to perpetuate his memory4 ,boys should early be made planters4 ,none but those who love trees1 and plant them1 know the serene pleasure of watching their growth1 and anticipating their future beauty and grandeur2 and no one can so exquisitely enjoy their grateful shade1 as he whose hand has planted and cared for them4 ,planting1 too1 is a most agreeable pastime to a reflecting mind4 ,it may be ranked among the pleasures1 instead of the toils of life4 ,we have always so found it4 ,there is no pleasanter sight of labor than to see a father1 with his young lads about him1 planting a tree4 ,it becomes a landmark of their industry and good taste2 and no thinking man passes a plantation of fine trees but inwardly blesses the man1 or the memory of the man who placed them there4 ,aside from all this1 trees properly distributed1 give a value to an estate far beyond the cost of planting1 and tending their growth1 and which no other equal amount of labor and expense upon it can confer4 ,innumerable farms and places have been sold at high prices1 over those of perhaps greater producing value1 merely for the trees which embellished them4 ,thus1 in a pecuniary light1 to say nothing of the pleasure and luxury they confer1 trees are a source of profitable investment4 ,it is a happy feature in the improving rural character of our country1 that tree-planting and tree preservation for some years past have attracted much more attention than formerly2 and with this attention a better taste is prevailing in their selection4 ,we have gained but little in the introduction of many of the foreign trees among us1 for ornament4 ,some of them are absolutely barbarous in comparison with our ,american forest trees1 and their cultivation is only a demonstration of the utter want of good taste in those who apply them4 ,for ordinary purposes1 but few exotics should be tolerated2 and those chiefly in collections1 as curiosities1 or for arboretums--in which latter the farmer cannot often indulge2 and for all the main purposes of shade1 and use1 and ornament1 the trees of no country can equal our own4 ,varied as our country is1 in soils and climates1 no particular directions can be given as to the individual varieties of tree which are to be preferred for planting4 ,each locality has its own most appropriate kinds1 and he who is to plant1 can best make the selections most fitted to his use4 ,rapid-growing trees1 when of fine symmetry1 and free from bad habits in throwing up suckers2 not liable to the attacks of insects2 of early1 dense1 and long-continued foliage1 are most to be commended2 while their opposites in character should be avoided in all well-kept grounds4 ,it requires1 indeed1 but a little thought and observation to guide every one in the selection which he should make1 to produce the best effect of which the tree itself is capable4 ,giving the importance we have1 to trees1 and their planting1 it may be supposed that we should discuss their position in the grounds to which they should be appropriated4 ,but no specific directions can be given at large4 ,all this branch of the subject must be left to the locality1 position1 and surface of the ground sought to be improved4 ,a good tree can scarcely stand in a wrong place1 when not injurious to a building by its too dense shade1 or shutting out its light1 or prospect4 ,still1 the proper disposition of trees is a study1 and should be well considered before they be planted4 ,bald1 unsightly spots should be covered by them1 when not devoted to more useful objects of the farm1 either in pasturage or cultivation4 ,a partial shading of the soil by trees may add to its value for grazing purposes1 like the woodland pastures of ,kentucky1 where subject to extreme droughts1 or a scorching sun4 ,if the planter feels disposed to consult authorities1 as to the best disposition of his trees1 works on ,landscape ,gardening may be studied2 but these can give only general hints1 and the only true course is to strive to make his grounds look as much like nature herself as possible--for nature seldom makes mistakes in her designs4 ,to conclude a course of remark1 which the plain farmer1 cultivating his land for its yearly profit alone1 may consider as foreign to the subject of our work1 we would not recommend any one to plant trees who is not willing to spend the necessary time to nurse and tend them afterward1 till they are out of harm's way1 and well established in a vigorous growth4 ,all this must be taken into the account1 for it is better to have even but a few trees1 and those what trees should be1 than a whole forest of stinted things1 writhing and pining through a course of sickly existence4 ,a chapter might also be written upon the proper mode of taking up and planting trees1 but as this would lead us to a subject more directly belonging to another department1 the proper authorities on that head must be consulted4 ,,fruit ,,garden--,,orchards4 ,as the fruit garden and orchards are usually near appendages to the dwelling and out-buildings1 a few remarks as to their locality and distribution may be appropriate4 ,the first should always be near the house1 both for convenience in gathering its fruits1 and for its due protection from the encroachments of those not entitled to its treasures4 ,it should1 if possible1 adjoin the kitchen garden1 for convenience of access2 as fruit is1 or should be1 an important item in the daily consumption of every family where it can be grown and afforded4 ,a sheltered spot1 if to be had1 should be devoted to this object2 or if not1 its margin1 on the exposed side1 should be set with the hardiest trees to which it is appropriated--as the apple4 ,the fruit garden1 proper1 may also contain the smaller fruits1 as they are termed1 as the currant1 gooseberry1 raspberry1 and whatever other shrub-fruits are grown2 while the quince1 the peach1 the apricot1 nectarine1 plum1 cherry1 pear1 and apple may1 in the order they are named1 stand in succession behind them1 the taller and more hardy growth of each successive variety rising higher1 and protecting its less hardy and aspiring neighbor4 ,the soil for all these varieties of tree is supposed to be congenial1 and our remarks will only be directed to their proper distribution4 ,the aspect for the fruit garden should1 if possible1 front the south1 south-east1 or south-west1 in a northerly climate4 ,in the ,middle and ,southern ,states the exposure is of less consequence4 ,currants1 gooseberries1 raspberries1 c41 should1 for their most productive bearing1 and the highest quality of their fruits1 be set at least four feet apart1 in the rows1 and the rows six feet distant from each other1 that there may be abundant room to cultivate them with the plow1 and kept clean of weeds and grass4 ,the quince1 peach1 apricot1 nectarine1 and plum should be #af feet apart each way4 ,the pear1 if on quince stock1 may be #ab feet apart1 and if on its own stock1 #bj to #bd feet2 while the apple should always be #cj to #cf feet apart1 to let in the requisite degree of sun and air to ripen as well as give growth1 color1 and flavor to its fruit4 ,the tendency of almost all planters of fruit trees is to set them too close1 and many otherwise fine fruit gardens are utterly ruined by the compact manner in which they are planted4 ,trees are great consumers of the atmosphere2 every leaf is a lung1 inhaling and respiring the gases1 and if sufficient breathing room be not allowed them1 the tree sickens1 and pines for the want of it2 therefore1 every fruit tree1 and fruit-bearing shrub should be so placed that the summer sun can shine on every part of its surface at some hour of the day4 ,in such position1 the fruit will reach its maximum of flavor1 size1 and perfection4 ,the ground1 too1 should be rich2 and1 to have the greatest benefit of the soil1 no crops should be grown among the trees1 after they have arrived at their full maturity of bearing4 ,thus planted1 and nursed1 with good selections of varieties1 both the fruit garden and the orchard become one of the most ornamental1 as well as most profitable portions of the farm4 ,in point of position1 as affecting the appearance of the homestead1 the fruit garden should stand on the weather-side of the dwelling1 so as1 although protected1 in its several varieties1 by itself1 when not altogether sheltered by some superior natural barrier1 it should appear to shelter both the dwelling and kitchen gardens1 which adjoin them4 ,as this is a subject intended to be but incidentally touched in these pages1 and only then as immediately connected in its general character with the dwelling house and its attachments1 we refrain from going into any particulars of detail concerning it4 ,it is also a subject to which we are strongly attached1 and gladly would we have a set chat with our readers upon it2 but as the discussion for so broad a field as we should have to survey1 would be in many points arbitrary1 and unfitting to local information as to varieties1 and particular cultivation1 we refer the reader1 with great pleasure1 to the several treatises of ,downing1 and ,thomas1 and ,barry1 on this interesting topic1 with which the public are fortunately in possession2 observing1 only1 that there is no one item of rural economy to which our attention can be given1 which yields more of luxury1 health1 and true enjoyment1 both to the body and the mind1 than the cultivation of good fruits4 ,,how ,,to ,,lay ,,out ,a ,,kitchen ,,garden4 ,the kitchen garden yields more necessaries and comforts to the family1 than any other piece of ground on the premises4 ,it is1 of consequence1 necessary that it be so located and planned as to be ready of access1 and yield the greatest possible quantity of products for the labor bestowed upon it2 and as locality and plan have much to do with the labor bestowed upon it and the productions it may yield1 both these subjects should be considered4 ,as to locality1 the kitchen garden should lie in the warmest and most sheltered spot which may be convenient to the kitchen of the house4 ,it should1 in connection with that1 be convenient of access to the dung-yards of the stables4 ,the size may be such as your necessities or your convenience may demand4 ,the shape1 either a parallelogram or a square2 for it will be recollected1 that this is a place allotted1 not for a show or pleasure ground1 but for profit4 ,if the garden be large1 this shape will better allow the use of the plow to turn up the soil1 which1 in a large garden1 is a much cheaper1 and1 when properly done1 a better mode than to spade it2 and if small1 and it be worked with the spade1 right lines are easier made with the spade than curved ones4 ,one or more walks1 at least eight feet wide1 should be made1 leading from a broad gate1 or bars1 through which a cart and horse1 or oxen1 may enter1 to draw in manure1 or carry out the vegetables2 and if such walk1 or walks1 do not extend around the garden1 which1 if in a large one1 they should do1 a sufficient area should be thrown out at the farther extremity1 to turn the cart upon4 ,if the soil be free1 and stony1 the stones should be taken out clean1 when large--and if small1 down to the size of a hen's egg--and the surface made as level as possible1 for a loose soil will need no draining4 ,if the soil be a clay1 or clayey loam1 it should be underdrained two and a half feet1 to be perfect1 and the draining so planned as to lead off to a lower spot outside4 ,this draining warms the soil1 opens it for filtration1 and makes it friable4 ,then1 properly fenced1 thoroughly manured1 and plowed deep1 and left rough--no matter how rough--in the fall of the year1 and as late before the setting in of winter as you dare risk it1 that part of the preparation is accomplished4 ,the permanent or wide walks of the garden1 after being laid out and graded1 should never be plowed nor disturbed1 except by the hoe and rake1 to keep down the weeds and grass2 yet1 if a close1 and well-shorn grass turf be kept upon them1 it is perhaps the cheapest and most cleanly way of keeping the walks4 ,they need only cutting off close with the hand-hook1 in summer4 ,we have known a great many people1 after laying out a kitchen garden1 and preparing it for use1 fill it up with fruit trees1 supposing that vegetables will grow quite as well with them as without4 ,this is a wide mistake4 ,no tree larger than a currant or gooseberry bush should ever stand in a vegetable garden4 ,these fruits being partially used in the cooking department1 as much in the way of vegetables1 as of fruits1 and small in size1 may be permitted2 and they1 contrary to the usual practice1 should always stand in open ground1 where they can have all the benefits of the sun and rain to ripen the fruit to perfection1 as well as to receive the cultivation they need1 instead of being placed under fences around the sides of the garden1 where they are too frequently neglected1 and become the resort of vermin1 or make prolific harbors for weeds4 ,along the main walks1 or alleys1 the borders for perennial plants1 as well as the currant and gooseberry bushes1 should be made--for the plow should run parallel to1 and not at right angles with them4 ,here may stand the rhubarbs1 the sea kales1 the various herbs1 or even the asparagus beds1 if a particular quarter be not set apart for them2 and1 if it be important1 a portion of these main borders may be appropriated to the more common flowers and small shrubbery1 if desired to cultivate them in a plain way2 but not a peach1 apricot1 or any other larger tree than a currant or raspberry1 should come within it4 ,they not only shade the small plants1 but suck up and rob them of their food and moisture1 and keep off the sun1 and prevent the circulation of air--than which nothing needs all these more than garden vegetables1 to have them in high perfection4 ,if it be necessary1 by means of a cold exposure on the one side1 to have a close plantation of shrubbery to screen the garden1 let it be outside the fence1 rather than within it2 but if within1 let there be a broad walk between such shrubbery and the garden beds1 as their roots will extend under the vegetables1 and rob them of their food4 ,a walk1 alley1 or cartway1 on the sides of the garden1 is always better next to the fence1 than to fill that space with anything else1 as it is usually shaded for a portion of the day1 and may be better afforded for such waste purposes than the open1 sunny ground within4 ,it will be observed that market gardeners1 men who always strive to make the most profit from their land and labor1 and obtain the best vegetables1 cultivate them in open fields4 ,not a tree1 nor even a bush is permitted to stand near the growing crop1 if they can prevent it2 and where one is not stinted in the area of his domain1 their example should be followed4 ,a word upon plowing gardens4 ,clays1 or clayey loams1 should always be manured and plowed in the fall1 just before the setting in of the winter frosts4 ,a world of pounding and hammering of lumps1 to make them fine1 in spring1 is saved by fall plowing1 besides incorporating the manure more thoroughly with the soil1 as well as freezing out and destroying the eggs of worms and insects which infest it4 ,thrown up deeply and roughly with the plow or spade1 the frosts act mechanically upon the soil1 and slack and pulverise it so thoroughly that a heavy raking in early spring1 is all that becomes necessary to put it in the finest condition for seeds1 and make it perhaps the very best and most productive of all garden soils whatever4 ,a light sandy loam is better to lie compact in winter1 and manured and turned up in early spring4 ,its friable nature leaves it always open and light1 and at all times in the absence of frost1 accessible to the spade or the hoe4 ,on these accounts1 it is usually the most desirable and convenient soil for the kitchen garden1 and on the whole1 generally preferred where either kind may be a matter simply of choice4 ,,flowers4 ,start not1 gentle reader6 ,we are not about to inflict upon you a dissertation on ,pelargoniums1 ,calla-,ethiopias1 ,japonicas1 and such like unmentionable terms1 that bring to your mind the green-house1 and forcing-house1 and all the train of expense and vexation attending them2 but we desire to have a short familiar conversation about what is all around you1 or if not around you1 should be1 and kept there1 with very little pains or labor on your part4 ,still1 if you dislike the subject1 just hand this part of our book over to your excellent wife1 or daughters1 or sisters1 as the case may be1 and we will talk to them about this matter4 ,flowers have their objects1 and were made for our use and pleasure2 otherwise1 ,god would never have strewed them1 as he has1 so bountifully along our paths1 and filled the world with their fragrance and beauty4 ,like all else beautiful1 which ,he made1 and pronounced good1 flowers have been objects of admiration and love since man's creation2 and their cultivation has ever been a type of civilization and refinement among all people who have left written records behind them4 ,flowers equally become the cottage and the palace1 in their decoration4 ,the humblest cottager1 and the mightiest monarch1 have equally admired their beauty and their odor2 and the whole train of mortals between1 have devoted a portion of their time and thoughts to the development of their peculiar properties4 ,but let that pass4 ,plain country people as we are1 there are enough of sufficient variety all around us1 to engage our attention1 and give us all that we desire to embellish our homes1 and engage the time which we have to devote to them4 ,among the wild flowers1 in the mountains and hills of the farthest ,north1 on the margin of their hidden brooks1 where ,floats the scarce-rooted watercress2 and on their barren sides1 the tiny violet and the laurel bloom1 each in their season1 with unwonted beauty2 and1 sloping down on to the plains beneath1 blush out in all their summer garniture1 the wild rose and the honeysuckle4 ,on1 through the ,middle ,states1 the lesser flowers of early spring throw out a thousand brilliant dyes1 and are surrounded by a host of summer plants1 vieing with each other in the exuberance of their tints4 ,on the ,alleghanies1 through all their vast range1 grow up the magnificent dogwood1 kalmia1 and rhododendron1 spangling mile upon mile of their huge sides and tops with white1 and covering crags and precipices of untold space with their blushing splendor4 ,further west1 on the prairies1 and oak openings1 and in the deep woods1 too1 of the great lakes1 and of the ,mississippi valley1 with the earliest grass1 shoot up1 all over the land1 a succession of flowers1 which in variety and profusion of shape1 and color1 and odor1 outvie all the lilies of the gardens of ,solomon2 and so they continue till the autumnal frosts cut down both grass and flower alike4 ,further south1 along the piney coast1 back through the hills and over the vast reach of cotton and sugar lands1 another class of flowers burst out from their natural coverts in equal glory2 and the magnolia1 and the tulip-tree1 and the wild orange throw a perfume along the air1 like the odors of ,palestine4 ,in the deep lagoons of the southern rivers1 too1 float immense water-lilies1 laying their great broad leaves1 and expanded white and yellow flowers1 upon the surface1 which the waters of the ,nile in the days of ,cleopatra never equaled4 ,and these are nature's wild productions only4 ,flowers being cultivated1 not for profit1 but for show and amusement1 need not intrude upon the time which is required to the more important labors of the farm4 ,a little time1 given at such hours when it can be best spared1 will set all the little flower-beds in order1 and keep the required shrubbery of the place in trim--and should not be denied in any family who enjoy a taste for them4 ,even the simplest of their kind1 when carefully disposed1 produce a fine effect2 and the hardy bulbous1 and tuberous-rooted plants require but slight aid in producing the highest perfection of their bloom2 while the fibrous-rooted perennials1 and the flowering shrubs1 bloom on from year to year1 almost uncared for and untouched4 ,the annuals require the most attention4 ,their seeds must be planted and gathered every year2 they must be weeded and nursed with more care than the others2 yet they richly repay all this trouble in their fresh bloom when the others are gone1 and will carry their rich flowers far into the frosts of autumn1 when their hardier companions have composed themselves for a winter's rest4 ,the position of the flower-bed1 or borders1 may be various4 ,as a matter of taste1 however1 they should be near the house1 and in view of the windows of the most frequented rooms4 ,they thus give more enjoyment in their sight1 than when but occasionally seen in special visits2 and such spots can usually be set apart for them4 ,if not in the way of more important things1 they should always be thus placed1 where they are ever objects of interest and attraction4 ,the ground which flowering plants occupy should be devoted to them alone1 and the soil be made deep and rich4 ,they should not be huddled up1 nor crowded1 but stand well apart1 and have plenty of breathing-room for their branches and leaves1 and space for the spread of their roots4 ,they are consumers of the fertilizing gases1 and require1 equally with other plants1 their due supply of manures--which also adds to the brilliance and size of their bloom1 as well as to the growth of their stems4 ,their roots should be protected in winter by coarse litter thrown over them1 particularly the earlier flowering plants1 as it gives them an early and rapid start in the spring4 ,in variety1 we need scarcely recommend what may be most desirable4 ,the crocus1 and snowdrop are among 7if not quite7 the earliest in bloom2 and to these follow the hyacinth1 and daffodil1 the jonquil1 and many-varied family of ,narcissus1 the low-headed hearts-ease1 or pansy2 with them1 too1 comes the flowering-almond1 the lilac1 and another or two flowering shrubs4 ,then follow the tulips1 in all their gorgeous and splendid variety of single1 double1 and fringed4 ,to these follow the great peonies1 in their full1 dashing colors of crimson1 white and pink1 and the tree-like snow-ball1 or guelder-rose4 ,by the side of these hangs out the monthly-trumpet-honeysuckle1 gracing the columns of your veranda1 porch1 or window1 and the large ,siberian honeysuckle1 with its white and pink flowers2 and along with them1 the various ,iris family1 or fleur-de-lis1 reminding one of ,france and the ,bourbons1 the ,prussian lilac1 and the early phloxes4 ,then blush out1 in all their endless variety of shade and tint1 from the purest white to the deepest purple1 the whole vast family of roses2 and in stature1 from the humblest twig that leans its frail stem upon the ground1 up to the hardy climber1 whose delicious clusters hang over your chamber window2 and a month of fragrance and beauty of these completes the succession of bulbs1 and tubers1 and perennial plants and shrubs--scores of which have not been noticed4 ,now commence the annuals1 which may carry you a month further into the season1 when the flaunting dahlia of every hue1 and budding from its plant of every size1 from the height of little ,tommy1 who is just toddling out with his mother to watch the first opening flower1 up to the top of his father's hat1 as he stands quite six feet1 to hold the little fellow up to try to smell of another1 which1 like all the rest1 has no sign of odor4 ,then come1 after a long retinue of different things--among which we always count the morning-glory1 or convolvulus1 running up the kitchen windows1--the great sun-flower1 which throws his broad disk high over the garden fence1 always cheerful1 and always glowing--the brilliant tribe of asters1 rich1 varied1 and beautiful1 running far into the autumnal frosts2 and1 to close our floral season1 the chrysanthemum1 which1 well cared-for1 blooms out in the open air1 and1 carefully taken up and boxed1 will stay with us1 in the house1 till ,christmas4 ,thus ends the blooming year4 ,now1 if you would enjoy a pleasure perfectly pure1 which has no alloy1 save an occasional disappointment by casualty1 and make home interesting beyond all other places1 learn first to love1 then to get1 and next to cultivate flowers4 ,,farm ,,cottages4 ,altogether too little attention has been paid in our country to these most useful appendages to the farm1 both in their construction and appearance4 ,nothing adds more to the feeling of comfort1 convenience1 and home expression in the farm1 than the snug-built laborers' cottage upon it4 ,the cottage also gives the farm an air of respectability and dignity4 ,the laborer should1 if not so sumptuously1 be as comfortably housed and sheltered as his employer4 ,this is quite as much to the interest of such employer as it is beneficial to the health and happiness of the laborer4 ,building is so cheap in ,america1 that the difference in cost between a snugly-finished cottage1 and a rickety1 open tenement1 is hardly to be taken into consideration1 as compared with the higher health1 and increased enjoyment of the laborer and his family2 while every considerate employer knows that cheerfulness and contentment of disposition1 which are perhaps more promoted by good home accommodations for the workingman than by any other influence1 are strong incentives to increased labor on his part1 and more fidelity in its application4 ,a landed estate1 of whatever extent1 with its respectable farm house1 in its own expressive style of construction1 relieved and set off by its attendant cottages1 either contiguous1 or remote1 and built in their proper character1 leaves nothing wanting to fill the picture upon which one loves to gaze in the contemplation of country life2 and without these last in due keeping with the chief structures of the estate1 a blank is left in its completeness and finish4 ,the little embellishments which may be given1 by way of architectural arrangement1 or the conveniences in accommodation1 are1 in almost all cases1 appreciated by those who occupy them1 and have an influence upon their character and conduct2 while the trifling decorations which may be added in the way of shrubbery1 trees1 and flowering plants1 costing little or nothing in their planting and keeping1 give a charm to the humblest abode4 ,the position of cottages on a farm should be controlled by considerations of convenience to the place of labor1 and a proper economy in their construction2 and hardly a site can be inappropriate which ensures these requirements4 ,in the plans which are submitted1 due attention has been paid to the comfort of those who inhabit them1 as well as to picturesque effect in the cottage itself4 ,decency1 order1 and respectability are thus given to the estate1 and to those who inhabit the cottages upon it1 as well as to those whose more fortunate position in life has given the enjoyment of a higher luxury in the occupancy of its chief mansion4 ,on all estates where the principal dwelling is located at any considerable distance from the public road1 or where approached by a side road shut off from the highway by a gate1 a small cottage1 by way of lodge1 or laborer's tenement1 should be located at or near the entrance4 ,such appendage is not only ornamental in itself1 but gives character to the place1 and security to the enclosure2 in guarding it from improper intrusion1 as well as to receive and conduct into the premises those who either reside upon1 or have business within it4 ,it is thus a sort of sentry-box1 as well as a laborer's residence4 ,illustration3 ,,cottage4 ,pages #baa-bab4 ,,design ,i4 ,this cottage is #aj feet high1 from the sill to the plates1 and may be built of wood1 with a slight frame composed of sills and plates only1 and planked up and down 7vertically7 and battened2 or grooved and tongued1 and matched close together2 or it may be framed throughout with posts and studs1 and covered with rough boards1 and over these clapboards1 and lathed and plastered inside4 ,the first mode would be the cheapest1 although not so warm and durable as the other1 yet quite comfortable when warmed by a stove4 ,on the second plan of building1 it will cost near or quite double the amount of the first1 if neatly painted4 ,a small brick chimney should rest upon the floor overhead1 in the side of which1 at least a foot above the chamber floor1 should be inserted an earthen or iron thimble1 to receive the stovepipe and guard against fire2 unless a flat stone1 #ad to #af inches square1 and #b to #d inches thick1 with a pipe-hole--which is the better plan--should rest on the floor immediately over the pipe4 ,this stone should be1 also1 the foundation of the chimney1 which should pass immediately up through the ridge of the roof1 and1 for effect1 in the center longitudinally1 of the house4 ,such position will not interfere with the location of the stove1 which may be placed in any part of the room1 the pipe reaching the chimney by one or more elbows4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the main body of this cottage is #ahx#ab feet1 with a lean-to1 #h feet wide1 running its whole length in rear4 ,this lean-to may be #h or #i inches lower1 on the floor1 than the main room1 and divided into a passage1 7leading to an open wood-house in rear1 #ajx#ab feet1 with a shed roof17 a large closet1 and a bedroom1 as may be required2 or1 the passage end may be left open at the side1 for a wood shelter1 or other useful purpose4 ,the roof1 which is raftered1 boarded1 and shingled in the usual mode1 is well spread over the gables1 as well as over the front and rear--say #ah inches4 ,the porch in front will give additional convenience in summer1 as a place to sit1 or eat under1 and its posts so fitted with grooves as to let in rough planks for winter enclosure in front and at one end1 leaving the entrance only1 at the least windy1 or stormy side4 ,the extra cost of such preparation1 with the planks1 which should be #a-a_/d or #a-a_/b inches thick1 and jointed1 would not exceed ten or fifteen dollars4 ,this would make an admirable wood-house for the winter1 and a perfect snuggery for a small family4 ,while in its summer dress1 with the porch opened--the planks taken out and laid overhead1 across the beams connecting the porch with the house--it would present an object of quiet comfort and beauty4 ,a hop vine or honeysuckle might be trained outside the posts1 and give it all the shade required4 ,in a stony country1 where the adjoining enclosures are of stone1 this cottage may be built of stone1 also1 at about double the cost of wood4 ,this would save the expense of paint1 or wash of any kind1 besides the greater character of durability and substance it would add to the establishment4 ,trees1 of course1 should shelter it2 and any little out-buildings that may be required should be nestled under a screen of vines and shrubbery near by4 ,this being designed as the humblest and cheapest kind of cottage1 where the family occupy only a single room1 the cost would be small4 ,on the plan first named1 stained with a coarse wash1 it could be built for #ajj4 ,on the second plan1 well-framed of sills1 plates1 posts1 studs1 c4 c41 covered with vertical boarding and battens1 or clapboarded1 and well painted in oil1 it might cost #aej to #bjj4 ,stone1 or brick1 without paint1 would add but little1 if anything in cost over the last sum4 ,the ceiling of the main floor is #h feet high1 and a low chamber or garret is afforded above it1 into which a swing-step ladder ascends2 and when not in use1 it may be hung to the ceiling overhead by a common hook and staples4 ,,design ,,ii4 ,this cottage is a grade beyond the one just described1 both in appearance and accommodation4 ,it is #bjx#af feet on the ground1 with a rear wing #bfx#h feet in area4 ,the main body is #aj feet high1 to the roof1 vertically boarded and battened4 ,a snug1 half-open 7or it may be closed1 as convenience may require17 porch shelters the front door1 #ex#d feet in area4 ,the cottage has a square or hipped roof1 of a #cj;deg pitch from a horizontal line1 which spreads full two feet over the walls and bracketed beneath4 ,the rear wing retreats two feet from the wall line of the main building1 and has also a hipped roof of the same pitch as the main one1 with eight-feet posts4 ,the open end of the wing advances #f feet toward the front of the main part for wood-house and storage4 ,the construction of this is in the same style as ,design ,i4 ,the windows are plain1 two-sashed1 of six lights each1 #hx#ab glass in front1 and #hx#aj in the rear4 ,illustration3 ,,cottage4 ,pages #bag-bah4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door opens into a common living room1 #afx#ab feet1 with two windows1 in which is a stove-chimney running up from the main floor next the partition1 or placed over it in the chamber1 and running up through the center of the roof4 ,on one side of the living room is a bedroom1 #ajx#h feet1 with two windows4 ,next to this bedroom is a large closet1 #hx#f feet1 with one window1 and shelves1 and tight cupboard within4 ,these rooms are #i feet high1 and over them is a chamber1 or garret1 #bjx#af feet1 entered by a swing step ladder1 as in ,design ,no4 ,i4 ,this garret is lighted by a small dormer window in the rear roof1 over the shed or lean-to4 ,a bed may be located in this chamber1 or it may serve as a storage and lumber-room4 ,the wing contains a small kitchen1 in case the living room be not occupied for that purpose1 #ajx#h feet1 lighted by a side-window1 and having a small chimney in the rear wall4 ,it may contain1 also1 a small closet1 #c feet square4 ,a door passes from this small kitchen into the wood-house1 which is #afx#h feet1 or with its advance ,l1 #ad feet1 in the extreme outer corner of which is a water-closet1 #ex#c feet2 thus1 altogether1 giving accommodation to a family of five or six persons4 ,the construction of this cottage is shown as of wood4 ,other material1 either brick or stone1 may be used1 as most convenient1 at a not much increased cost4 ,the expense of this building may be1 say fifty per cent4 higher than that of ,no4 ,i1 according to the finish1 and may be sufficiently well done and painted complete for #cjj2 which may be reduced or increased1 according to the style of finish and the taste of the builder4 ,a cellar may be made under this cottage1 which can be reached by a trap-door from the living room1 opening to a flight of steps below4 ,,design ,,iii4 ,this cottage is still in advance of ,no4 ,,ii1 in style and arrangement1 and may accommodate not only the farm laborer or gardener1 but will serve for a small farmer himself1 or a village mechanic4 ,it is in the ,french style of roof1 and allied to the ,italian in its brackets1 and gables1 and half-terraced front4 ,the body of the cottage is #bbx#bj feet1 with twelve-feet posts2 the roof has a pitch of #ej;deg from a horizontal line1 in its straight dimensions1 curving horizontally toward the eaves1 which1 together with the gables1 project #c feet over the walls4 ,the terrace in front is #e feet wide4 ,on the rear is a wood-house1 #ahx#af feet in area1 open at the house end1 and in front1 with a roof in same style as the main house1 and posts1 #h feet high1 standing on the ground1 #b feet below the surface of the cellar wall1 which supports the main building4 ,illustration3 ,,cottage4 ,pages #bba-bbb4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door opens1 in the center of the front wall1 into a hall1 #abx#h feet1 with a flight of stairs on one side1 leading to the chamber above2 under the stairs1 at the upper end1 is a passage leading beneath them into the cellar4 ,on one side of this hall is a bedroom #hx#aj feet1 lighted by a window in front1 and part of the hooded double window on the side4 ,on the inner side1 a door leads from the hall into the living room or kitchen1 #ahx#ab feet4 ,on one side of this is a bedroom1 or pantry1 as may be most desirable1 #ix#f feet1 from which leads a close closet1 #c feet square4 ,this bedroom has a window on one side1 next the hall4 ,a door from the kitchen leads into a closet1 #c feet wide1 which may contain a sink1 and cupboard for kitchen wares4 ,the living room is lighted by a part of the double hooded window on one side1 and another on the rear4 ,a door leads into the wood-house1 which is #abx#af feet1 in the extreme corner of which is the water-closet1 #ex#c feet4 ,the rooms in this cottage are #i feet high4 ,a chimney leads up from the floor of the living room1 which may receive1 in addition to its own fireplace1 or stove1 a pipe from the stove in the hall1 if one is placed there4 ,the chamber has two feet of perpendicular wall1 and the sharp roof gives opportunity for two good lodging rooms1 which may be partitioned off as convenience may require1 each lighted by a window in the gables1 and a dormer one in the roof1 for the passage leading into them4 ,the hall may serve as a pleasant sitting or dining-room1 in pleasant weather1 opening1 as it does1 on to the terrace1 which is mostly sheltered by the overhanging roof4 ,the construction of this cottage may be of either stone1 brick1 or wood1 and produce a fine effect4 ,although it has neither porch1 nor veranda1 the broad eaves and gables give it a well-sheltered appearance1 and the hooded windows on the sides throw an air of protection over them1 quite agreeable to the eye4 ,the framing of this roof is no way different1 in the rafters1 from those made on straight lines1 but the curve and projection is given by planks cut into proper shape1 and spiked into the rafters1 and apparently supported by the brackets below1 which should be cut from two to three-inch plank1 to give them a heavy and substantial appearance4 ,the windows are in casement form1 as shown in the design1 but may be changed into the ordinary sash form1 if preferred1 which is1 in this country1 usually the better way4 ,it will be observed1 that we have in all cases adopted the usual square-sided form of glass for windows1 as altogether more convenient and economical in building1 simple in repairing1 and1 we think1 quite as agreeable in appearance1 as those out-of-the-way shapes frequently adopted to give a more picturesque effect4 ,in a hilly1 mountainous1 and evergreen country1 this style of cottage is peculiarly appropriate4 ,it takes additional character from bold and picturesque scenery1 with which it is in harmony4 ,the pine1 spruce1 cedar1 or hemlock1 or the evergreen laurel1 planted around or near it1 will give it increased effect1 while among deciduous trees and shrubs1 an occasional ,lombardy poplar1 and larch1 will harmonize with the boldness of its outline4 ,even where hill or mountain scenery is wanting1 plantations such as have been named1 would render it a pleasing style of cottage1 and give agreeable effect to its bold1 sharp roof and projecting eaves4 ,in a snowy country1 the plan of roof here presented is well adapted to the shedding of heavy snows1 on which it can find no protracted lodgment4 ,where massive stone walls enclose the estate1 this style of cottage will be in character1 as comporting with that strong and solid air which the rustic appearance of stone alone can give4 ,it may1 too1 receive the same amount of outer decoration1 in its shrubbery and plantations1 given to any other style of building of like accommodation1 and with an equally agreeable effect4 ,,design ,,iv4 ,this cottage is still in advance of the last1 in its accommodation1 and is suitable for the small farmer1 or the more liberal cottager1 who requires wider room1 and ampler conveniences than are allowed by the hitherto described structures4 ,it is a first class dwelling1 of its kind1 and1 in its details and finish1 may be adapted to a variety of occupation1 while it will afford a sufficient amount of expenditure to gratify a liberal outlay1 to him who chooses to indulge his taste in a moderate extent of decoration and embellishment4 ,the ground plan of this cottage is #cjx#bb feet1 in light rural-,gothic style1 one and a half stories high1 the posts #ad feet in elevation4 ,it has two chimneys1 passing out through the roof on each side of the ridge1 uniformly1 each with the other4 ,the roof has a pitch of #de;deg from a horizontal line1 giving it a bold and rather dashing appearance1 and deeply sheltering the walls4 ,the side gables give variety to the roof1 and light to the chambers1 and add to the finish of its appearance2 while the sharp arched double window in the front gable adds character to the design4 ,illustration3 ,,cottage4 ,pages #bbg-bbh4 ,the deep veranda in front covers three-quarters of its surface in length1 and in the symmetry of its roof1 and airiness of its columns1 with their light braces1 give it a style of completeness2 and if creeping vines or climbing shrubs be trained upon them1 will produce an effect altogether rural and beautiful4 ,or1 if a rustic style of finish be adopted1 to render it cheaper in construction1 the effect may still be imposing1 and in harmony with the purposes to which it is designed4 ,in fact1 this model will admit of a variety of choice in finish1 from the plainest to a high degree of embellishment1 as the ability or fancy of the builder may suggest4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,from the veranda in the center of the front1 a door opens into a hall1 #agx#g feet1 with a flight of stairs leading1 in three different angles1 to the chambers above4 ,opposite the front door is the passage into the living room1 or parlor1 #agx#ae feet1 lighted by three windows1 two of which present an agreeable view of an adjacent stream and its opposite shores4 ,at the line of partition from the hall1 stands a chimney1 with a fireplace1 if desirable1 or for a stove1 to accommodate both this room and the hall with a like convenience2 and under the flight of stairs adjoining opens a china closet1 with spacious shelves1 for the safe-keeping of household comforts4 ,from this room1 a door leads into a bedroom1 #ajx#ac feet1 lighted by a window opening into the veranda1 also accommodated by a stove1 which leads into a chimney at its inner partition4 ,next to this bedroom is the kitchen1 #abx#ac feet1 accommodated with a chimney1 where may be inserted an open fireplace1 or a stove1 as required4 ,in this is a flight of back chamber and cellar stairs4 ,this room is lighted by two windows--one in the side1 another in the rear4 ,a door leads from its rear into a large1 roomy pantry1 #h feet square1 situated in the wing1 and lighted by a window4 ,next to this is a passage1 #c feet in width1 leading to the wood-house1 7in which the pantry just named is included17 #afx#ab feet1 with nine-feet posts1 and roof pitched like the house1 in the extreme corner of which is a water-closet1 #ex#c feet4 ,cornering upon the wood-house beyond1 is a small building1 #aex#ab feet1 with ten-feet posts1 and a roof in same style as the others--with convenience for a cow and a pig1 with each a separate entrance4 ,a flight of stairs leads to the hay-loft above the stables1 in the gable of which is the hay-door2 and under the stairs is the granary2 and to these may be added1 inside1 a small accommodation for a choice stock of poultry4 ,the chamber plan is the same as the lower floor1 mainly1 giving three good sleeping-rooms2 that over the kitchen1 being a back chamber1 need not have a separate passage into the upper hall1 but may have a door passage into the principal chamber4 ,the door to the front bedroom leads direct from the upper hall4 ,thus1 accommodation is given to quite a numerous family4 ,closets may be placed in each of these chambers1 if wanted2 and the entire establishment made a most snug and compact1 as well as commodious arrangement4 ,,cottage ,,outside ,,decoration4 ,nothing so perfectly sets off a cottage1 in external appearance1 as the presence of plants and shrubbery around it4 ,a large tree or two1 by giving an air of protection1 is always in place2 and creeping vines1 and climbing shrubs about the windows and porch1 are in true character2 while a few low-headed trees1 of various kinds1 together with some simple and hardy annual and other flowers--to which should always be added1 near by1 a small1 well-tended kitchen garden--fill up the picture4 ,in the choice of what varieties should compose these ornaments1 one can hardly be at a loss4 ,flanking the cottage1 and near the kitchen garden1 should be the fruit trees4 ,the elm1 maples1 oak1 and hickory1 in all their varieties1 black-walnut1 butternut--the last all the better for its rich kernel--are every one appropriate for shade1 as large trees4 ,the hop1 morning-glory1 running beans--all useful and ornamental as summer climbers2 the clematis1 bitter-sweet1 ivy1 any of the climbing roses2 the lilac1 syringa1 snow-ball1 and the standard roses2 while marigolds1 asters1 pinks1 the phloxes1 peonies1 and a few other of the thousand-and-one simple and charming annuals1 biennials1 and perennials1 with now and then a gorgeous sunflower1 flaunting in its broad glory1 will fill up the catalogue4 ,rare and costly plants are not required1 and indeed1 are hardly in place in the grounds of an ordinary cottage1 unless occupied by the professional gardener4 ,they denote expense1 which the laboring cottager cannot afford2 and besides that1 they detract from the simplicity of the life and purpose which not only the cottage itself1 but everything around it1 should express4 ,there is an affectation of cottage building1 with some people who1 with a seeming humility1 really aim at higher flights of style in living within them1 than truth of either design or purpose will admit4 ,but as such cases are more among villagers1 and those temporarily retiring from the city for summer residence1 the farm cottage has little to do with it4 ,still1 such fancies are contagious1 and we have occasionally seen the ambitious cottage1 with its covert expression of humility1 insinuating itself on to the farm1 and for the farmer's own family occupation1 too1 which at once spoiled1 to the eye1 the substantial reality of the whole establishment4 ,a farmer should discard all such things as ornamental cottages4 ,they do not belong to the farm4 ,if he live in a cottage himself1 it should be a plain one2 yet it may be very substantial and well finished--something showing that he means either to be content in it1 in its character of plainness1 or that he intends1 at a future day1 to build something better--when this may serve for the habitation of one of his laborers4 ,the cottage should never occupy a principal1 or prominent site on the farm4 ,it should take a subordinate position of ground4 ,this adds to its expression as subordinate in rank1 among the lesser farm buildings4 ,a cottage cannot1 and should not aspire to be chief in either position or character4 ,such should be the farm house proper2 although unpretending1 still1 in style1 above the cottage2 and if the latter1 in addition1 be required on the farm1 it should so appear1 both in construction and finish2 just what it is intended for--a tenement for economical purposes4 ,there is another kind of cottage1 the dwellers in which1 these pages will probably never reach1 that expresses1 in its wild structure1 and rude locality1 the idea of ,moore's pretty song-- ,i knew by the smoke that so gracefully curled ,above the green elms1 that a cottage was near4 ,yet1 in some parts of our country1 landlords may build such1 for the accommodation of tenants1 which they may make useful on the outskirts of their estates1 and add indirectly to their own convenience and interest in so doing4 ,this may be indulged in1 poetically too--for almost any thinking man has a spice of poetry in his composition--vagabondism1 a strict1 economizing utilitarian would call it4 ,the name matters not4 ,one may as well indulge his taste in this cheap sort of charitable expenditure1 as another may indulge1 in his dogs1 and guns1 his horses and equipages--and the first is far the cheapest4 ,they1 at the west and south1 understand this1 whose recreations are occasionally with their hounds1 in chase of the deer1 and the fox1 and in their pursuit spend weeks of the fall and winter months1 in which they are accompanied1 and assisted1 as boon companions for the time1 by the rude tenants of the cottages we have described3 ,a cheerful1 simple1 honest people4 ,another class of cottage may come within the farm enclosures1 half poetical1 and half economical1 such as ,milton describes3 ,hard by a cottage chimney smokes1 ,from betwixt two aged oaks2 and occupied by a family pensioner and his infirm old wife--we don't think all poor old folks ought to go to the alms-house1 because they cannot work every day of the year--of which all long-settled families of good estate have1 now and then1 one near to1 or upon their premises4 ,thousands of kind and liberal hearts among our farming and planting brethren1 whose impulses are-- ,open as the day to melting charity1 are familiar with the wants of those who are thus made their dependents2 and in their accommodation1 an eye may be kept to the producing of an agreeable effect in locating their habitations1 and to rudely embellish1 rather than to mar the domain on which they may be lodged4 ,in short1 cottage architecture1 in its proper character1 may be made as effective1 in all the ornament which it should give to the farm1 as that of any other structure2 and if those who have occasion for the cottage will only be content to build and maintain it as it should be1 and leave off that perpetual aspiration after something unnatural1 and foreign to its purpose1 which so many cottage builders of the day attempt1 and let it stand in its own humble1 secluded character1 they will save themselves a world of trouble1 and pass for--what they now do not--men possessing a taste for truth and propriety in their endeavors4 ,,house ,,and ,,cottage ,,furniture4 ,this is a subject so thoroughly discussed in the books1 of late1 that anything which may here be said1 would avail but little1 inasmuch as our opinions might be looked upon as old-fashioned1 out of date1 and of no account whatever1--for wonderfully modern notions in room-furnishing have crept into the farm house1 as well as into town houses4 ,indeed1 we confess to altogether ancient opinions in regard to household furniture1 and contend1 that1 with a few exceptions1 modern degeneracy has reached the utmost stretch of absurdity1 in house-furnishing1 to which the ingenuity of man can arrive4 ,fashions in furniture change about as often as the cut of a lady's dress1 or the shape of her bonnet1 and pretty much from the same source1 too--the fancy shops of ,paree1 once1 in good old ,english1 ,paris1 the capital city of ,france4 ,a farmer1 rich or poor1 may spend half his annual income1 every year of his life1 in taking down old1 and putting up new furniture1 and be kept uncomfortable all the time2 when1 if he will1 after a quiet1 good-tempered talk with his better-half1 agree with her upon the list of necessary articles to make them really comfortable2 and then a catalogue of what shall comprise the luxurious part of their furnishings1 which1 when provided1 they will fixedly make up their mind to keep1 and be content with1 they will remain entirely free from one great source of the ills which flesh is heir to4 ,it is pleasant to see a young couple setting out in their housekeeping life1 well provided with convenient and properly-selected furniture1 appropriate to all the uses of the family2 and then to keep1 and use it1 and enjoy it1 like contented1 sensible people2 adding to it1 now and then1 as its wear1 or the increasing wants of their family may require4 ,old1 familiar things1 to which we have long been accustomed1 and habituated1 make up a round share of our actual enjoyment4 ,a family addicted to constant change in their household furniture1 attached to nothing1 content with nothing1 and looking with anxiety to the next change of fashion which shall introduce something new into the house1 can take no sort of comfort1 let their circumstances be ever so affluent4 ,it is a kind of dissipation in which some otherwise worthy people are prone to indulge1 but altogether pernicious in the indulgence4 ,it detracts1 also1 from the apparent respectability of a family to find nothing old about them--as if they themselves were of yesterday1 and newly dusted out of a modern shop-keeper's stock in trade4 ,the furniture of a house ought to look as though the family within it once had a grandfather--and as if old things had some veneration from those who had long enjoyed their service4 ,we are not about to dictate1 of what fashion household furniture should be1 when selected1 any further than that of a plain1 substantial1 and commodious fashion1 and that it should comport1 so far as those requirements in it will admit1 with the approved modes of the day4 ,but we are free to say1 that in these times the extreme of absurdity1 and unfitness for use1 is more the fashion than anything else4 ,what so useless as the modern ,french chairs1 standing on legs like pipe-stems1 garote-ing your back like a rheumatism1 and frail as the legs of a spider beneath you1 as you sit in it2 and a tribe of equally worthless incumbrances1 which absorb your money in their cost1 and detract from your comfort1 instead of adding to it1 when you have got them2 or a bedstead so high that you must have a ladder to climb into it1 or so low as to scarcely keep you above the level of the floor1 when lying on it4 ,no2 give us the substantial1 the easy1 the free1 and enjoyable articles1 and the rest may go to tickle the fancy of those who have a taste for them4 ,nor do these flashy furnishings add to one's rank in society1 or to the good opinion of those whose consideration is most valuable4 ,look into the houses of those people who are the really substantial1 and worthy of the land4 ,there will be found little of such frippery with them4 ,old furniture1 well-preserved1 useful in everything1 mark the well-ordered arrangement of their rooms1 and give an air of quietude1 of comfort1 and of hospitality to their apartments4 ,children cling to such objects in after life1 as heir-looms of affection and parental regard4 ,although we decline to give specific directions about what varieties of furniture should constitute the furnishings of a house1 or to illustrate its style or fashion by drawings1 and content ourself with the single remark1 that it should1 in all cases1 be strong1 plain1 and durable--no sham1 nor ostentation about it--and such as is made for use3 mere trinkets stuck about the room1 on center tables1 in corners1 or on the mantel-piece1 are the foolishest things imaginable4 ,they are costly2 they require a world of care1 to keep them in condition2 and then1 with all this care1 they are good for nothing1 in any sensible use4 ,we have frequently been into a country house1 where we anticipated better things1 and1 on being introduced into the parlor1 actually found everything in the furniture line so dainty and prinked up1 that we were afraid to sit down on the frail things stuck around by way of seats1 for fear of breaking them2 and everything about it looked so gingerly and inhospitable1 that we felt an absolute relief when we could fairly get out of it1 and take a place by the wide old fireplace1 in the common living room1 comfortably ensconced in a good old easy1 high-backed1 split-bottomed chair--there was positive comfort in that1 when in the parlor there was nothing but restraint and discomfort4 ,no2 leave all this vanity to town-folk1 who have nothing better--or who1 at least1 think they have--to amuse themselves with2 it has no fitness for a country dwelling1 whatever4 ,all this kind of frippery smacks of the boarding school1 the pirouette1 and the dancing master1 and is out of character for the farm1 or the sensible retirement of the country4 ,in connection with the subject of furniture1 a remark may be made on the room arrangement of the house1 which might1 perhaps1 have been more fittingly made when discussing that subject1 in the designs of our houses4 ,some people have a marvellous propensity for introducing into their houses a suite of rooms1 connected by wide folding-doors1 which must always be opened into each other1 furnished just alike1 and devoted to extraordinary occasions2 thus absolutely sinking the best rooms in the house1 for display half a dozen times in the year1 and at the sacrifice of the every-day comfort of the family4 ,this is nothing but a bastard taste1 of the most worthless kind1 introduced from the city--the propriety of which1 for city life1 need not here be discussed4 ,the presence of such arrangement1 in a country house1 is fatal to everything like domestic enjoyment1 and always followed by great expense and inconvenience4 ,no room1 in any house1 should be too good for occupation by the family themselves--not every-day1 and common-place--but occupation at any and all times1 when convenience or pleasure demand it4 ,if a large room be required1 let the single room itself be large2 not sacrifice an extra room to the occasional extension of the choicer one1 as in the use of folding-doors must be done4 ,this parlor may be better furnished--and so it should be--than any other room in the house4 ,its carpet should be not too good to tread1 or stand upon1 or for the children to roll and tumble upon1 provided their shoes and clothes be clean4 ,let the happy little fellows roll and tumble on it1 to their heart's content1 when their mother or elder sisters are with them--for it may be1 perhaps1 the most joyous1 and most innocent pleasure of their lives1 poor things6 ,the hearth-rug should be in keeping with the carpet1 also1 and no floor-cloth should be necessary to cover it1 for fear of soiling2 but everything free and easy1 with a comfortable1 inviting1 hospitable look about it4 ,go into the houses of our great men--such as live in the country--whom ,god made great1 not money--and see how they live4 ,we speak not of statesmen and politicians alone1 but great merchants1 great scholars1 great divines1 great mechanics1 and all men who1 in mind and attainments1 are head and shoulder above their class in any of the walks of life1 and you find no starch1 or flummery about them4 ,we once went out to the country house--he lived there all the time1 for that matter--of a distinguished banker of one of our great cities1 to dine1 and spend the day with him4 ,he had a small farm attached to his dwelling1 where he kept his horses and cows1 his pigs1 and his poultry4 ,he had a large1 plain two-story cottage house1 with a piazza running on three sides of it1 from which a beautiful view of the neighboring city1 and water1 and land1 was seen in nearly all directions4 ,he was an educated man4 ,his father had been a statesman of distinguished ability and station at home1 and a diplomatist abroad1 and himself educated in the highest circles of business1 and of society4 ,his wife1 too1 was the daughter of a distinguished city merchant1 quite his equal in all the accomplishments of life4 ,his own wealth was competent2 he was the manager of millions of the wealth of others2 and his station in society was of the highest4 ,yet1 with all this claim to pretension1 his house did not cost him eight thousand dollars--and he built it by days-work1 too1 so as to have it faithfully done2 and the furniture in it1 aside from library1 paintings1 and statuary1 never cost him three thousand4 ,every room in it was a plain one1 not more highly finished than many a farmer's house can afford4 ,the furniture of every kind was plain1 saving1 perhaps1 the old family plate1 and such as he had added to it1 which was all substantial1 and made for use4 ,the younger children--and of these1 younger and older1 he had several--we found happy1 healthy1 cheerful1 and frolicking on the carpets2 and their worthy mother1 in the plainest1 yet altogether appropriate garb1 was sitting among them1 at her family sewing1 and kindly welcomed us as we took our seats in front of the open1 glowing fireplace4 ,why1 sir1 we exclaimed1 rubbing our hands in the comfortable glow of warmth which the fire had given--for it was a cold ,december day--you are quite plain1 as well as wonderfully comfortable1 in your country house--quite different from your former city residence6 ,to be sure we are1 was the reply2 we stood it as long as we could1 amid the starch and the gimcracks of ---- street1 where we rarely had a day to ourselves1 and the children could never go into the streets but they must be tagged and tasselled1 in their dress1 into all sorts of discomfort1 merely for the sake of appearance4 ,so1 after standing it as long as we could1 my wife and ,i determined we would try the country1 for a while1 and see what we could make of it4 ,we kept our town-house1 into which we returned for a winter or two2 but gave it up for a permanent residence here1 with which we are perfectly content4 ,we see here all the friends we want to see2 we all enjoy ourselves1 and the children are healthy and happy4 ,and this is but a specimen of thousands of families in the enjoyment of country life1 including the families of men in the highest station1 and possessed of sufficient wealth4 ,why1 then1 should the farmer ape the fashion1 and the frivolity of the butterflies of town life1 or permit his family to do it8 ,it is the sheerest possible folly in him to do so4 ,yet1 it is a folly into which many are imperceptibly gliding1 and which1 if not reformed1 will ultimately lead to great discomfort to themselves1 and ruin to their families4 ,let thoughtless people do as they choose4 ,pay no attention to their extravagance2 but watch them for a dozen years1 and see how they come out in their fashionable career2 and observe the fate of their families1 as they get established in the like kind of life4 ,he who keeps aloof from such temptation1 will then have no cause to regret that he has maintained his own steady course of living1 and taught his sons and daughters that a due attention to their own comfort1 with economical habits in everything relating to housekeeping1 will be to their lasting benefit in future4 ,but1 we have said enough to convey the ideas in house-furnishing we would wish to impart2 and the reader will do as he1 or she1 no doubt1 would have done1 had we not written a word about it--go and select such as may strike their own fancy4 ,we received1 a day or two since1 a letter from a person at the west1 entirely unknown to us1 whose ideas so entirely correspond with our own1 that we give it a place1 as showing that a proper taste does prevail among many people in this country1 in regard to buildings1 and house-furnishings2 and which we trust he will pardon us for publishing1 as according entirely with our own views1 in conclusion3 ----1 ----1 ,ill41 ,dec4 #ah1 #ahea4 ,,dear ,,sir1--,i received1 a few days since1 a copy of the first number of a periodical called the ,plough1 into which is copied the elevation of a design for a farm house1 purporting to be from a forthcoming work of yours1 entitled ,rural ,architecture4 ,although a perfect stranger to you1 you will perhaps allow me to make one or two suggestions4 ,i have seen no work yet1 which seems fully to meet the wants of our country people in the matter of furniture4 ,after having built their houses1 they need showing how to furnish them in the cheapest1 most neat1 comfortable1 convenient1 and substantial manner4 ,the furniture should be designed for use1 not merely for show4 ,i would have it plain1 but not coarse--just enough for the utmost convenience1 but nothing superfluous4 ,the articles of furniture figured1 and partially described in the late works on those subjects1 are mostly of too elaborate and expensive a cast to be generally introduced into our country houses4 ,there is too much nabobery about them to meet the wants1 or suit the taste of the plain ,american farmer4 ,as to out-houses--the barn1 stable1 carriage and wagon-house1 tool-house1 piggery1 poultry-house1 corn-crib1 and granary1 7to say nothing of the rabbit-warren and dovecote17--are necessary appendages of the farm house4 ,now1 as cheapness is one great desideratum with nearly all our new beginners in this western region1 it seems to me1 that such plans as will conveniently include the greatest number of these under the same roof1 will be best suited to their necessities4 ,i do not mean to be understood that1 for the sake of the first cost1 we should pay no regard to the appearance1 or that we should slight our work1 or suffer it to be constructed of flimsy or perishable materials3 we should not only have an eye to taste and durability1 but put in practice the most strict economy4 ,i hope1 in the above matters1 you may be able to furnish something better suited to the necessities and means of our plain farmers1 than has been done by any of your predecessors4 ,i remain1 c41 most respectfully yours1 ----1 ----4 ,having completed the series of ,designs for dwelling houses1 which we had proposed for this work1 and followed them out with such remarks as were thought fitting to attend them1 we now pass on to the second part of our subject3 the out-buildings of the farm1 in which are to be accommodated the domestic animals which make up a large item of its economy and management2 together with other buildings which are necessary to complete its requirements4 ,we trust that they will be found to be such as the occasion1 and the wants of the farmer may demand2 and in economy1 accommodation1 and extent1 be serviceable to those for whose benefit they are designed4 ,,an ,,apiary1 ,,or ,,bee-,,house4 ,every farmer should keep bees--provided he have pasturage for them1 on his own land1 or if a proper range for their food and stores lie in his immediate vicinity4 ,bees are1 beyond any other domestic stock1 economical in their keeping1 to their owners4 ,still they require care1 and that of no inconsiderable kind1 and skill1 in their management1 not understood by every one who attempts to rear them4 ,they ask no food1 they require no assistance1 in gathering their daily stores1 beyond that of proper housing in the cheapest description of tenement1 and with that they are entirely content4 ,yet1 without these1 they are a contingent1 and sometimes a troublesome appendage to the domestic stock of the farm4 ,we call them domestic4 ,in one sense they are so2 in another1 they are as wild and untamed as when buzzing and collecting their sweets in the vineyard of ,timnath1 where the mighty ,sampson took their honey from the carcass of the dead lion2 or1 as when ,john the ,baptist1 clothed with camel's hair1 ate locusts and wild honey in the arid wastes of ,palestine4 ,although kept in partial bondage for six thousand years1 the ruling propensity of the bee is to seek a home and shelter in the forest1 when it emerges in a swarm from the parent hive2 and no amount of domestic accommodation1 or kindness of treatment1 will induce it willingly to migrate from its nursery habitation to another by its side1 although provided with the choicest comforts to invite its entrance4 ,it will soon fly to the woods1 enter a hollow and dilapidated tree1 and carve out for itself its future fortunes1 amid a world of labor and apparent discomfort4 ,the bee1 too1 barring its industry1 patience1 and sweetened labors1 is an arrant thief--robbing its nearest neighbors1 with impunity1 when the strongest1 and mercilessly slaughtering its weaker brethren1 when standing in the way of its rapacity4 ,it has been extolled for its ingenuity1 its patience1 its industry1 its perseverance1 and its virtue4 ,patience1 industry1 and perseverance it has1 beyond a doubt1 and in a wonderful degree2 but ingenuity1 and virtue1 it has none1 more than the spider1 who spins his worthless web1 or the wasp1 who stings you when disturbing his labors4 ,instinct1 the bee has1 like all animals2 but of kind feeling1 and gratitude1 it has nothing2 and with all our vivid nursery remembrance of good ,doctor ,watts' charming little hymn-- ,how doth the little busy bee1 c4 c41 we have long ago set it down as incorrigible to kind treatment1 or charitable sympathy1 and looked upon it simply as a thing to be treated kindly for the sake of its labors1 and as composing one of that delightful family of domestic objects which make our homes attractive1 pleasant1 and profitable4 ,the active labors of the bee1 in a bright ,may or ,june morning1 as they fly1 in their busy order1 back and forth from their hives1 or the soothing hum of their playful hours1 in a summer's afternoon1 are among the most delightful associations of rural life2 and as a luxury to the sight1 and the ear1 they should be associated with every farmer's home1 and with every laborer's cottage1 when practicable4 ,and as their due accommodation is to be the object of our present writing1 a plan is presented for that object4 ,in many of the modern structures held out for imitation1 the bee-house1 or apiary1 is an expensive1 pretentious affair1 got up in an ambitious way1 with efforts at style1 in the semblance of a temple1 a pagoda1 or other absurdity1 the very appearance of which frightens the simple bee from its propriety1 and in which we never yet knew a colony of them to become1 and remain successful4 ,the insect is1 as we have observed1 wild and untamable--a savage in its habits1 and rude in its temper4 ,it rejects all cultivated appearances1 and seeks only its own temporary convenience1 together with comfortable room for its stores1 and the increase of its kind2 and therefore1 the more rustic and simple its habitation1 the better is it pleased with its position4 ,illustration3 ,,apiary4 ,the bee-house should front upon a sheltered and sunny aspect4 ,it should be near the ground1 in a clean and quiet spot1 free from the intrusion of other creatures1 either human or profane1 and undisturbed by noisome smells1 and uncouth sounds--for it loathes all these instinctively1 and loves nothing so much as the wild beauty of nature itself4 ,the plan here presented is of the plainest and least expensive kind4 ,nine posts1 or crutches1 are set into the ground sufficiently deep to hold them firm1 and to secure them from heaving out by the frost4 ,the distance of these posts apart may be according to the size of the building1 and to give it strength enough to resist the action of the wind4 ,the front posts should be #i feet high1 above the ground2 the rear posts should be #g feet--that a man1 with his hat on1 may stand upright under them--and #f feet from the front line4 ,the two end posts directly in the rear of the front corner posts1 should be #c feet back from them1 and on a line to accommodate the pitch of the roof from the front to the rear4 ,a light plate is to be fitted on the top line of the front posts2 a plate at each end should run back to the posts in rear1 and then another cross-plate1 or girt1 from each one of these middle posts1 to the post in rear of all1 to meet the plate which surmounts this rear line of posts2 and a parallel plate1 or rafter1 should be laid from the two intermediate posts at the ends1 to connect them1 and for a central support to the roof4 ,intermediate central posts should also be placed opposite those in front1 to support the central plate1 and not exceeding #ab feet apart4 ,a shed roof1 of boards1 or shingles1 tightly laid1 should cover the whole1 sufficiently projecting over the front1 rear1 and sides1 to give the house abundant shelter1 and make it architecturally agreeable to the eye--say #ab to #ah inches1 according to its extent4 ,a corner board should drop two feet below the plate1 with such finish1 by way of ornament1 as may be desirable4 ,the ends should be tightly boarded up against the weather1 from bottom to top4 ,the rear should also be tightly boarded1 from the bottom up to a level with the stand inside1 for the hives1 and from #ae to #ah inches above that to the roof4 ,fitted into the space thus left in the rear1 should be a light1 though substantial1 swing door1 hung from the upper boarding1 made in sections1 extending from one post to the other1 as the size of the house may determine1 and secured with hooks1 or buttons1 as may be convenient4 ,the outside of the structure is thus completed4 ,the inside arrangement for the hives1 may be made in two different ways1 as the choice of the apiarian may govern in the mode in which his hives are secured4 ,the most usual is the stand method1 which may be made thus3 ,at each angle1 equidistant1 say #ah to #bd inches1 inside1 from the rear side and ends of the building--as shown in the ground plan--and opposite to each rear and end post1 suspend perpendicularly a line of stout pieces of two-inch plank1 #d inches wide1 well spiked on to the rafters above1 reaching down within two feet of the ground--which is to hold up the bottom of the stand on which the hives are to rest4 ,from each bottom end of these suspended strips1 secure another piece of like thickness and width1 horizontally back to the post in rear of it1 at the side and ends4 ,then1 lengthwise the building1 and turning the angles at the ends1 and resting on these horizontal pieces just described1 lay other strips1 #cx#b inches1 set edgewise--one in front1 and another in rear1 inside each post and suspended strip1 and close to it1 and secured by heavy nails1 so that there shall be a double line of these strips on a level1 extending entirely around the interior1 from the front at each end4 ,this forms the hanging frame-work for the planks or boards on which the hives are to rest4 ,now for the hives4 ,first1 let as many pieces of sound one and a half1 or two-inch plank as you have hives to set upon them1 be cut long enough to reach from the boarding on the rear and ends of the building1 to one inch beyond1 and projecting over the front of the outer strip last described4 ,let these pieces of plank be well and smoothly planed1 and laid lengthwise across the aforesaid strips1 not less than four inches apart from each other--if a less number of hives be in the building than it will accommodate at four inches apart1 no matter how far apart they may be--these pieces of plank are the ferms for the hives1 on which they are to sit4 ,and1 as we have for many years adopted the plan now described1 with entire success1 a brief description is given of our mode of hive1 and the process for obtaining the surplus honey4 ,we say surplus1 for destroying the bees to obtain their honey1 is a mode not at all according to our notions of economy1 or mercy2 and we prefer to take that honey only which the swarm may make1 after supplying their own wants1 and the stores for their increasing family4 ,this process is given in the report of a committee of gentlemen appointed by the ,new ,york ,state ,agricultural ,society1 on a hive which we exhibited on that occasion1 with the following note attached1 at their show at ,buffalo1 in #ahdh3 ,i have seen1 examined1 and used several different plans of patent hive1 of which there are probably thirty invented1 and used1 more or less4 ,i have found all which ,i have ever seen1 unsatisfactory1 not carrying out in full1 the benefits claimed for them4 ,the bee works1 and lives1 ,i believe1 solely by instinct4 ,i do not consider it an inventive1 or very ingenious insect4 ,to succeed well1 its accommodations should be of the simplest and securest form4 ,therefore1 instead of adopting the complicated plans of many of the patent hives1 ,i have made1 and used a simple box1 like that now before you1 containing a cube of one foot square inside--made of one and a quarter inch sound pine plank1 well jointed and planed on all sides1 and put together perfectly tight at the joints1 with white lead ground in oil1 and the inside of the hive at the bottom champered off to three-eighths of an inch thick1 with a door for the bees in front1 of four inches long by three-eighths of an inch high4 ,i do this1 that there may be a thin surface to come in contact with the shelf on which they rest1 thus preventing a harbor for the bee-moth4 7,i have never used a patent hive which would exclude the bee-moth1 nor any one which would so well do it as this1 having never been troubled with that scourge since ,i used this tight hive47 ,on the top of the hive1 an inch or two from the front1 is made a passage for the bees1 of an inch wide1 and six to eight inches long1 to admit the bees into an upper hive for surplus honey1 7which passage is covered1 when no vessel for that purpose is on the top47 ,for obtaining the honey1 ,i use a common ten or twelve-quart water pail1 inverted1 with the bail turned over1 in which the bees deposit their surplus1 like the sample before you4 ,the pail will hold about twenty pounds of honey4 ,this is simple1 cheap1 and expeditious2 the pail costing not exceeding twenty-five cents1 is taken off in a moment1 the bail replaced1 and the honey ready for transportation1 or market1 and always in place4 ,if there is time for more honey to be made1 7my bees made two pails-full in succession this year17 another pail can be put on at once4 ,such1 gentlemen1 in short1 is my method4 ,i have kept bees about twenty years4 ,i succeed better on this plan than with any other4 ,in addition to this1 our hives are painted white1 or other light color1 on the outside1 to protect them from warping1 and as a further security against the bee-moth1 or miller1 which infests and destroys so many carelessly-made hives1 as to discourage the efforts of equally careless people in keeping them4 ,inside the hive1 on each end1 we fasten1 by shingle nails1 about half-way between the bottom and top1 a small piece of half-inch board1 about the size of a common window button1 and with a like notch in it1 set upward1 but stationary1 on which1 when the hive is to receive the swarm1 a stick is laid across1 to support the comb as it is built1 from falling in hot weather4 ,at such time1 also1 when new1 and used for the first time1 the under-side of the top is scratched with the tines of a table fork1 or a nail1 so as to make a rough surface1 to which the new comb can be fastened4 ,in addition to the pails on the top of the hives1 to receive the surplus honey1 we sometimes use a flat box1 the size of the hive in diameter1 and six or seven inches high inside1 which will hold twenty-five to thirty pounds of honey4 ,the pails we adopted as an article of greater convenience for transporting the honey4 ,the other plan of arranging the hives alluded to1 is suspending them between the strips before described1 by means of cleats secured on to the front and rear sides of the hive1 say two-thirds the way up from the bottom4 ,in such case1 the strips running lengthwise the house must be brought near enough together to receive the hives as hung by the cleats1 and the bottom boards1 or forms1 must be much smaller than those already described1 and hung with wire hooks and staples to the sides1 with a button on the rear1 to close up1 or let them down a sufficient distance to admit the air to pass freely across them1 and up into the hive--,weeks' plan1 in fact1 for which he has a patent1 together with some other fancied improvements1 such as chambers to receive the boxes for the deposit of surplus honey4 ,this1 by the way1 is the best patent we have seen2 and ,mr4 ,weeks having written an ingenious and excellent treatise on the treatment of the bee1 we freely recommend his book to the attention of every apiarian who wishes to succeed in their management4 ,as a rule1 we have no confidence in patent hives4 ,we have seen scores of them1 of different kinds1 have tried several of great pretension to sundry virtues--such as excluding moths1 and other marvelous benefits--and1 after becoming the victim of bee empirics to the tune of many a dollar1 have thrown aside the gimcracks1 and taken again to a common-sense method of keeping our bees1 as here described4 ,the bees themselves1 we feel bound to say1 seem to hold these patent-right habitations in quite as sovereign contempt as ourself1 reluctantly going into them1 and getting out of them at the first safe opportunity4 ,but1 as a treatise on bee-keeping is not a part of this present work1 we must1 for further information1 commend the inquirer on that subject to some of the valuable treatises extant1 on so prolific a subject1 among which we name those of ,bevan1 ,weeks1 and ,miner4 ,the bee-house should be thoroughly whitewashed inside every spring1 and kept clean of cobwebs1 wasp's nests1 and vermin2 and it may be painted outside1 a soft and agreeable color1 in keeping with the other buildings of the farm4 ,its premises should be clean1 and sweet4 ,the grass around should be kept mowed close4 ,low trees1 or shrubbery1 should stand within a few yards of it1 that the new swarms may light upon them when coming out1 and not1 for want of such settling places1 be liable to loss from flying away4 ,it should1 also1 be within sight and hearing1 and at no great distance from a continually-frequented room in the dwelling--perhaps the kitchen1 if convenient1 that1 in their swarming season1 they may be secured as they leave the parent hive4 ,the apiary is a beautiful object1 with its busy tenantry2 and to the invalid1 or one who loves to look upon ,god's tiny creatures1 it may while away many an agreeable hour1 in watching their labors--thus adding pleasure to profit4 ,the cost of a bee-house1 on the plan given1 may be from ten to fifty dollars1 according to the price of material1 and the amount of labor expended upon it4 ,it should not be an expensive structure1 in any event1 as its purpose does not warrant it4 ,if a gimcrack affair be wanted1 for the purposes of ornament1 or expense1 any sum of money may be squandered upon it which the fancy of its builder may choose to spare4 ,,an ,,ice-,,house4 ,among the useful and convenient appendages to the farm and country family establishment1 is the ice-house4 ,different from the general opinion which prevailed in our country before ice became so important an article of commerce1 and of home consumption1 the building which contains it should stand above-ground1 instead of below it4 ,and the plainer and more simple it can be constructed1 the better4 ,the position of the ice-house may be that which is most convenient to the dwelling1 or to the wants of those who use it4 ,if it can be placed beneath the shade of trees1 it will so far be relieved from the influence of the sun2 but it should be so constructed that sunshine will not affect the ice within it1 even if it stand unsheltered2 and as it has1 by the ice-merchants of our eastern cities1 who put up large quantities for exportation abroad1 and others in the interior1 who furnish ice in quantity for home consumption1 been proved to be altogether the better plan to build the ice-house entirely above ground1 we shall present no other mode of construction than this4 ,it may be added1 that five years' experience with one of our own building1 has confirmed our opinion of the superiority of this over any other plan which may be adopted4 ,the design here presented is of the most economical kind1 yet sufficiently ornamental to make it an agreeable appendage to any family establishment4 ,the size may be #ab feet square--less than that would be too small for keeping ice well--and from that up to any required extent4 ,the idea here given is simply the principle of construction4 ,the posts should be full eight feet high above the ground1 to where the plate of the roof is attached1 and built thus3 ,illustration3 ,,ice-,,house4 ,mark out your ground the size you require for the house2 then1 commencing at one corner1 dig1 opposite each other1 a double set of holes1 one foot deep1 and two and a half feet apart1 on each side of the intended building1 say three feet equidistant1 so that when the posts stand up they will present a double set1 one and a half feet apart4 ,then set in your posts1 which should be of oak1 chestnut1 or some lasting wood1 and pack the earth firmly around them4 ,if the posts are sawed1 they may be #dx#f inches in size1 set edgeways toward each other4 ,if not sawed1 they may be round sticks cut from the woods1 or split from the body of a tree1 quartered--but sizable1 so as to appear decent--and the insides facing each other as they stand up1 lined to a surface to receive the planking4 ,of course1 when the posts are set in the ground1 they are to show a square form1 or skeleton of what the building is to be when completed4 ,when this is done1 square off the top of each post to a level1 all round2 then frame1 or spike on to each line of posts a plate1 say six inches wide1 and four to six inches deep1 and stay the two plates together strongly1 so as to form a double frame4 ,now1 plank1 or board up closely the inside of each line of posts1 that the space between them shall be a fair surface4 ,cut out1 or leave out a space for a door in the center of the side where you want it1 two and a half or three feet wide1 and six and a half feet high1 and board up the inner partition sides of this opening1 so as to form a door-casing on each side1 that the space between the two lines of posts may be a continuous box all around4 ,then fill up this space between the posts with moist tan-bark1 or saw-dust1 well packed from the ground up to the plates2 and the body of the house is inclosed1 sun-proof1 and air-proof1 to guard the ice4 ,now lay down1 inside the building1 some sticks--not much matter what1 so that they be level--and on them lay loose planks or boards1 for a floor4 ,cover this floor with a coating of straw1 a foot thick1 and it is ready to receive the ice4 ,for the roof1 take common #cx#d joists1 as rafters2 or1 in place of them1 poles from the woods1 long enough1 in a pitch of full #ce;deg from a horizontal line1 to carry the roof at least four feet over the outside of the plates1 and secure the rafters well1 by pins or spikes1 to them4 ,then board over and shingle it1 leaving a small aperture at the top1 through which run a small pipe1 say eight inches in diameter--a stove-crock will do--for a ventilator4 ,then set in1 #d little posts1 say two feet high--as in the design--throw a little four-sided1 pointed cap on to the top of these posts1 and the roof is done4 ,if you want to ornament the under side of the roof1 in a rude way--and we would advise it--take some pieces of #cx#d scantling1 such as were used for the roof1 if the posts are of sawed stuff--if not1 rough limbs of trees from the woods1 to match the rough posts of the same kind1 and fasten them to the posts and the under side of the roof1 by way of brackets1 as shown in the design4 ,when the ice is put into the house1 a close floor of boards should be laid on joists1 which rest on the plates1 loosely1 so that this floor can be removed when putting in ice1 and that covered five or six inches deep with tan1 or saw-dust--straw will do1 if the other can not be had--and the inside arrangement is complete4 ,two doors should be attached to the opening1 where the ice is put in and taken out2 one on the inner side of the lining1 and the other on the outer side1 both opening out4 ,tan1 saw-dust1 or straw should also be placed on the top of the ice1 when put in1 so as to keep the air from it as much as possible2 and as the ice is removed1 it will settle down upon1 and still preserve it4 ,care must be taken to have a drain under the floor of the house1 to pass off the water which melts from the ice1 as it would1 if standing there1 injure its keeping4 ,it will be seen1 that1 by an error in the cut of the ground plan1 the inside line of posts does not show1 as in the outer line1 which they should do2 nor is the outside door inserted1 as is shown in the elevation4 ,these defects1 however1 will be rectified by the builder4 ,we have given considerable thought to this subject1 and can devise no shape to the building more appropriate than this1 nor one cheaper in construction4 ,it may be built for fifty to a hundred dollars1 according to the cost of material and labor1 and the degree of finish given to it4 ,it is hardly worth while to expatiate upon the convenience and economy of an ice-house1 to an ,american4 ,those who love well-kept meats1 fruits1 butter1 milk1 and various etceteras for the table1 understand its utility well2 to say nothing of the cooling draughts1 in the way of drinks1 in hot weather1 to which it adds--when not taken to extremes--such positive luxury4 ,we commend the ice-house1 well-filled1 most heartily1 to every good country housekeeper1 as a matter of convenience1 economy1 and luxury1 adding next to nothing to the living expenses1 and1 as an appendage to the main buildings1 an item of little cost1 and a considerable degree of ornament4 ,if an under-ground ice-house be preferred to the plan here shown1 a side hill1 or bank1 with a northerly exposure1 is the best location for it2 and the manner of building should be mainly like this1 for the body of the house4 ,the roof1 however1 should be only two-sided1 and the door for putting in and taking out the ice may be in the gable1 on the ground level4 ,the drainage under the floor1 and precautions for keeping the ice1 should be quite as thorough as we have described2 as1 otherwise1 the earth surrounding it on three sides1 at least1 of the house1 will be a ready conductor of warmth1 and melt the ice with great rapidity4 ,if the under-ground plan is adopted1 but little more than the roof will show1 and of course1 be of little ornament in the way of appearance4 ,,the ,,ash-,,house ,,and ,,smoke-,,house4 ,these two objects may1 both for convenience and economy1 be well combined under one roof2 and we have thus placed them in connection4 ,the building is an exceedingly simple structure1 made of stone1 or brick2 the body #aj feet high1 and of such size as may be desirable1 with a simple roof1 and a plain1 hooded chimney4 ,illustration3 ,,ash ,,house ,,and ,,smoke ,,house4 ,in the ground plan will be seen a brick1 or stone partition--which may extend to such height as may be necessary to contain the bulk of ashes required for storage within it--on one side of the building1 to which a door gives access4 ,the opposite side1 and overhead1 is devoted to the smoke-house1 in which the various girts and hooks may be placed1 for sustaining the meats to be smoked4 ,the building should be tied together by joists at the plates1 properly anchored into the walls1 to prevent their spreading4 ,a stove1 or pans1 or neither1 as the method of keeping the smoke alive may govern1 can be placed inside1 to which the chimney in the roof may serve as a partial escape1 or not1 as required4 ,the whole process is so simple1 and so easily understood1 that further explanation is unnecessary4 ,a great advantage that a house of this construction has1 is the convenience of storing the smoked meats for an indefinite time1 even through the whole season1 keeping them dark1 dry1 and cool2 and permitting1 at any time1 a smoke to be made1 to drive out the flies1 if they find their way into it4 ,the ashes can1 of course1 be removed at any time1 by the door at which they are thrown in4 ,,the ,,poultry-,,house4 ,as poultry is an indispensable appendage to the farm1 in all cases1 the poultry-house is equally indispensable1 for their accommodation1 and for the most profitable management of the fowls themselves1 and most convenient for the production of their eggs and young4 ,indeed1 without well-arranged quarters for the fowls of the farm1 they are exceedingly troublesome1 and of doubtful profit2 but with the proper buildings devoted to them exclusively1 they become one of the most interesting and agreeable objects with which either the farm or the country house is associated4 ,it is hardly worth while to eulogize poultry4 ,their merits and virtues are written in the hearts of all provident housekeepers2 and their beauty and goodness are familiar to every son and daughter of the rural homestead4 ,we shall1 then1 proceed at once to discuss their proper accommodation1 in the cheapest and most familiar method with which we are acquainted4 ,the hen-house--for hens 7barn-door fowls1 we mean7 are the first and chief stock1 of the kind1 to be provided for1 and with them most of the other varieties can be associated--should be located in a warm1 sheltered1 and sunny place1 with abundant grounds about it1 where they can graze--hens eat grass--and scratch1 and enjoy themselves to their heart's content1 in all seasons1 when the ground is open and they can scratch into1 or range over its surface4 ,some people--indeed1 a good many people--picket in their gardens1 to keep hens out2 but we prefer an enclosure to keep the hens in1 at all seasons when they are troublesome1 which1 after all1 is only during short seasons of the year1 when seeds are planted1 or sown1 and grain and vegetables are ripening4 ,otherwise1 they may range at will1 on the farm1 doing good in their destruction of insects1 and deriving much enjoyment to themselves2 for hens1 on the whole1 are happy things4 ,illustration3 ,,poultry ,,lawn4 ,we here present the elevation of a poultry-house in perspective1 to show the principle which we would adopt in its construction1 and which may be extended to any required length1 and to which may be added any given area of ground1 or yard-room1 which the circumstances of the proprietor may devote to it4 ,it is1 as will be seen1 of a most rustic appearance1 and built as cheaply1 yet thoroughly1 as the subject may require4 ,its length1 we will say1 is #bj feet1 its breadth #af1 and its height #aj feet1 made of posts set into the ground--for we do not like sills1 and floors of wood1 because rats are apt to burrow under them1 which are their worst enemies--and boarded up1 either inside or outside1 as in the case of the ice-house previously described1 though not double4 ,plates are laid on these posts1 to connect them firmly together2 and the rafters rest on the plates1 as usual4 ,the chamber floor is #i feet high1 above the ground1 and may be used either for laying purposes by the fowls1 or reserved as a storage-room for their feed4 ,the roof is broadly drawn over the body of the building1 to shelter it1 and through the point of the roof1 in the center1 is a ventilator1 with a covered top1 and a vane significant of its purpose4 ,it is also sufficiently lighted1 with glass windows1 into which our draughtsman has put the diamond-paned glass1 contrary to our notions2 but1 as he had1 no doubt1 an eye to the picturesque1 we let it pass1 only remarking1 that if we were building the house on our own account1 there should be no such nonsense about it4 ,the front windows are large1 to attract the warmth of the winter's sun4 ,a section of picket fence is also attached1 and trees in the rear--both of which are necessary to a complete establishment2 the first1 to secure the poultry in the contiguous yards1 and the trees to give them shade1 and even roosting-places1 if they prefer such lodgings in warm weather--for which we consider them eminently wholesome4 ,the wooden floor is dispensed with1 as was remarked1 to keep rid of the vermin4 ,if the ground be gravelly1 or sandy1 it will be sufficiently dry4 ,if a heavy or damp soil be used1 it should be under-drained1 which will effectually dry it1 and be better for the fowls than a floor of either wood1 brick1 or stone4 ,doors of sufficient size can be made on the yard sides of the house1 near the ground1 for the poultry to enter either the living or roosting apartments1 at pleasure1 and hung with butts on the upper side1 to be closed when necessary4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door opens into the main living room4 ,at each end1 and in the rear1 are tiers of boxes1 one foot wide1 one and a half feet long1 and one and a half feet high--the lowest tier elevated two feet above the ground--and built one tier above the other1 and snugly partitioned between1 with a hole at one corner of each1 ten inches high1 and eight inches wide1 for passing in to them2 and a shelf1 or passage-board1 nine inches wide1 in front4 ,these are the nesting boxes1 and should be kept supplied with short1 soft straw1 or hay orts1 for that purpose4 ,hens love secrecy in their domestic economy1 and are wonderfully pleased with the opportunity to hide away1 and conceal themselves while laying4 ,indeed1 such concealment1 or the supposition of it1 we have no doubt promotes fecundity1 as it is well known that a hen can stop laying1 almost at pleasure1 when disturbed in her regular habits and settled plans of life4 ,burns says-- ,the best laid schemes of mice and men ,gang aft agley2 and why not hen's8 ,we think so4 ,if turkeys be kept in the premises1 the females can also be accommodated in these boxes1 as they are fond of laying in company with the hens1 and frequently in the same nests1 only that they require larger entrances into them2 or1 a tier of boxes may be made on the ground1 for their convenience4 ,a door leads from the rear of this room into the roosting apartment1 through which is a passage to the back side of the building1 and a door opposite1 leading out into the yard4 ,on each side of this passage are roosts1 rising1 each behind and above the other1 #ah inches apart4 ,the lowest roosts may be three feet from the ground1 and the highest six feet1 that they may easily fly from one to the other2 and in this way they may all be approached1 to catch the fowls1 when required4 ,for the roosts1 slender poles1 two to three inches in diameter--small trees1 cut from the woods1 with the bark on1 are the best--may be used2 and they should be secured through augur holes in board slats suspended from the floor joists overhead4 ,this apartment should be cleaned out as often as once a fortnight1 both for cleanliness and health--for fowls like to be clean1 and to have pure air4 ,a flight of stairs may be made in one corner of the front room1 to go into the chamber1 if preferred2 but a swing ladder1 hung by one end1 with hinges1 to the joists above1 is1 for such purpose1 a more cleanly mode of access2 which1 when not in use1 may be hooked up to the under side of the floor above2 and a trap door1 shutting into the chamber floor1 and also hung on hinges1 will accommodate the entrance4 ,for feeding troughs1 we have seen many ingenious contrivances1 and among them1 possibly1 a ,yankee patent1 or two2 but all these we put aside1 as of little account4 ,a common segar box1 or any other cast-off thing1 that will hold their food1 is just as good as the most complicated invention2 and1 in common feeding1 there is no better mode than to scatter abroad their corn1 and let them pick it up at their pleasure--when spread on a clean surface4 ,we think1 also1 that1 except for fattening poultry1 stated hours of feeding are best for the birds themselves1 and that they be fed only such quantity as they will pick up clean4 ,water should1 if possible1 be kept constantly by them2 and if a small running stream could pass through the yard1 all the better4 ,if it be desirable to have fresh eggs during winter--and that is certainly a convenience--a box stove may be set in the living room1 and properly protected by a grating around it1 for warming the living apartment4 ,it may be remarked1 however1 that this winter-laying of hens is usually a forcing business4 ,a hen will lay but about a given number of eggs in a year2 say a hundred--we believe this is about the number which the most observant of poultry-keepers allow them--and what she lays in winter must be subtracted from the number she would otherwise lay in the spring1 summer1 or autumn4 ,yet a warm house will1 laying1 aside1 keep the fowls with less food1 and in greater comfort1 than if cold1 and left to their own natural warmth4 ,there is usually little difficulty in keeping hens1 turkies1 ducks1 and geese together1 in the same inclosure1 during winter and early spring1 before the grass grows4 ,but geese and turkies require greater range during the warm season than the others1 and should have it1 both for convenience to themselves and profit to their owners4 ,for winter quarters1 low shelters may be made for the water-fowls in the yards1 and the turkies will frequently prefer to share the shelter of the hens1 on the roosts in the house4 ,guinea-hens--cruel1 vindictive things1 as they are--should never be allowed within a common poultry yard4 ,always quarrelsome1 and never quiet1 they should take to the farmyard1 with the cattle1 where they may range at will1 and take their amusement in fisticuffs with each other1 at pleasure4 ,neither should peacocks be allowed to come into the poultry inclosures1 during the breeding season2 they are anything but amiable in their manners to other birds4 ,with the care and management of the poultry department1 after thus providing for their accommodation1 it is not our province to interfere2 that is a subject too generally understood1 to require further remark4 ,nor need we discuss the many varieties of poultry which1 at the present time1 so arrest the attention of many of our good country people2 and we will leave so important a subject to the meditations of the ,new ,england ,poultry ,society1 who have taken the gallinaceous1 and other tribes under their special cognizance1 and will1 doubtless1 in due time1 illumine the world with various knowledge in this department of rural economy1 not yet dreamt of in our philosophy4 ,the recently published poultry books1 too1 with an amplitude and particularity in the discussion of the different breeds and varieties1 which shuts all suspicions of self-interest into the corner1 have given such a fund of information on the subject1 that any further inquiry may1 with entire good will1 be turned over to their pages4 ,,the ,,dovecote4 ,this is a department1 in itself1 not common among the farm buildings1 in the ,united ,states2 and for the reason1 probably1 that the domestic pigeon1 or house-dove1 is usually kept more for amusement than for profit--there being little actual profit about them--and is readily accommodated in the spare lofts of sheds and out-buildings devoted to other purposes4 ,pigeons1 however1 add to the variety and interest of the poultry department2 and as there are many different breeds of them1 they are general favorites with the juveniles of the family4 ,our present object is1 not to propose any distinct building for pigeon accommodation2 but to give them a location in other buildings1 where they will be conveniently provided with room1 and least annoying by their presence--for1 be it known1 they are oft-times a most serious annoyance to many crops of the farm1 when kept in any considerable numbers1 as well as in the waste and havoc they make in the stores of the barns and granaries4 ,although graceful and beautiful birds1 generally clean and tidy in their personal habits out of doors1 they are the filthiest housekeepers imaginable1 and no building can be especially devoted to their use1 if not often swept and cleaned1 but what will soon become an intolerable nuisance within1 and not much better without1 and the ground immediately around the premises a dirty place4 ,the common pigeon is a pugnacious cavalier1 warring apparently upon mere punctilio1 as we have often seen1 in the distant strut-and-coo of a stranger bird to his mate1 even if she be the very incarnation of rejected addresses4 ,on all these accounts1 we would locate--unless a small and select family of fancy birds1 perhaps--the pigeon stock at the principal farm-yard1 and in the lofts of the cattle sheds1 or the chambers of the stable4 ,wherever the pigeon accommodations are designed to be1 a close partition should separate their quarters from the room occupied for other purposes1 with doors for admission to those who have to do with them1 in cleaning their premises1 or to take the birds1 when needed4 ,a line of holes1 five inches high1 and four inches wide--the top of the hole slightly arched--should be made1 say #ah inches apart1 for the distance of room they are to occupy in the building4 ,a foot above the top of these1 another line may be made2 and so on1 tiering them up to the height intended to devote to them4 ,a line of shelves1 or lighting-boards1 six to eight inches wide1 should then be placed one inch below the bottom of these holes1 and firmly braced beneath1 and nailed to the weather-boarding of the house4 ,inside1 a range of box should be made1 of corresponding length with the line of holes1 to embrace every entrance from the outside1 #ah inches wide1 and partitioned equidistant between each entrance1 so as to give a square box of #ah inches to each pair of birds4 ,the bottom board of each ascending tier of boxes will1 of course1 be the top of the boxes below1 and these must be made perfectly tight1 to prevent the offal of the upper ones from falling through1 to the annoyance of their neighbors below4 ,the back of these boxes should have a line of swing doors1 hung with butts1 or hinges1 from the top1 and fastened with buttons1 or hooks1 at the bottom1 to allow admission1 or examination1 at any time1 to those who have the care of them4 ,this plan of door is indispensable1 to clean them out--which should be done as often as once a week1 or fortnight1 at farthest--and to secure the birds as they may be wanted for the table1 or other purposes--for it will be recollected that squabs1 just feathered out1 are considered a delicious dish1 at the most sumptuous tables4 ,it will be understood1 that these boxes above described1 are within a partitioned room1 with a floor1 in their rear1 with sufficient space for the person in charge of them to pass along1 and to hold the baskets1 or whatever is to receive the offal of their boxes1 as it is taken out4 ,this offal is valuable1 as a highly stimulating manure1 and is sought for by the morocco tanners1 at a high price--frequently at twenty-five cents a bushel4 ,as pigeons are prolific breeders1 laying and hatching six or seven times a year1 and in warm climates oftener1 they require a good supply of litter--short cut1 soft straw is the best--which should be freely supplied at every new incubation1 and the old litter removed4 ,the boxes1 too1 should be in a warm place1 snugly made1 and well sheltered from the wind and driving storms2 for pigeons1 although hardy birds when grown1 should be well protected while young4 ,the common food of the pigeon is grain1 of almost any kind1 and worms1 and other insects1 which they pick up in the field4 ,on the whole1 they are a pleasant bird1 when they can be conveniently kept1 and are worth the trifling cost that their proper housing may demand4 ,if our opinion were asked1 as to the best1 and least troublesome kind of pigeon to be kept1 we should say1 the finest and most hardy of the common kind1 which are usually found in the collections throughout the country4 ,but there are many fancy breeds--such as the fan-tail1 the powter1 the tumbler1 the ruffler1 and perhaps another variety or two--all pretty birds1 and each distinct in their appearance1 and in some of their domestic habits4 ,the most beautiful of the pigeon kind1 however1 is the ,carrier4 ,they are the very perfection of grace1 and symmetry1 and beauty4 ,their colors are always brilliant and changing1 and in their flight they cleave the air with a rapidity which no other variety--indeed1 which scarce any other bird1 of any kind1 can equal4 ,history is full of examples of their usefulness1 in carrying tidings from one country to another1 in letters1 or tokens1 fastened to their necks or legs1 for which they are trained by those who have thus used them2 but which1 now1 the well known telegraph wire has nearly superseded4 ,all these fancy breeds require great care in their management1 to keep them pure in blood1 as they will all mix1 more or less1 with the common pigeon1 as they come in contact with them2 and the selection of whatever kind is wanted to be kept1 must be left to those who are willing to bestow the pains which their necessary care may demand4 ,a ,,piggery4 ,the hog is an animal for which we have no especial liking1 be he either a tender suckling1 nosing and tugging at the well-filled udder of his dam1 or a well-proportioned porker1 basking in all the plenitude of swinish luxury2 albeit1 in the use of his flesh1 we affect not the ,jew1 but liking it moderately well1 in its various preparations1 as a substantial and savory article of diet4 ,still1 the hog is an important item of our agricultural economy1 and his production and proper treatment is a valuable study to all who rear him as a creature either of profit or convenience4 ,in the western and southern states1 a mild climate permits him to be easily reared and fed off for market1 with little heed to shelter or protection2 while in the north1 he requires care and covering during winter4 ,not only this2 in all places the hog is an unruly1 mischievous creature1 and has no business really in any other place than where he can he controlled1 and kept at a moment's call4 ,but1 as tastes and customs differ essentially1 with regard to his training and destiny1 to such as agree with us in opinion1 that his proper place is in the sty1 particularly when feeding for pork1 a plan of piggery is given1 such as may be economical in construction1 and convenient in its arrangement1 both for the swine itself1 and him who has charge of him4 ,the design here given1 is for a building1 #cf feet long1 and #bd feet wide1 with twelve-feet posts2 the lower1 or living room for the swine1 #i feet high1 and a storage chamber above1 for the grain and other food required for his keeping4 ,the roof has a pitch of #dj;deg from a horizontal line1 spreading over the sides and gables at least #bj inches1 and coarsely bracketed4 ,the entrance front projects #f feet from the main building1 by #ab feet in length4 ,over its main door1 in the gable1 is a door with a hoisting beam and tackle above it1 to take in the grain1 and a floor over the whole area receives it4 ,a window is in each gable end4 ,a ventilator passes up through this chamber and the roof1 to let off the steam from the cooking vats below1 and the foul air emitted by the swine1 by the side of which is the furnace-chimney1 giving it1 on the whole1 as respectable an appearance as a pigsty need pretend to4 ,illustration3 ,,piggery4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,at the left of the entrance is a flight of stairs1 7b17 leading to the chamber above4 ,on the right is a small area1 7a17 with a window to light it4 ,a door from this leads into the main room1 7c17 where stands a chimney1 7d17 with a furnace to receive the fuel for cooking the food1 for which are two kettles1 or boilers1 with wooden vats1 on the top1 if the extent of food demands them2 these are secured with broad wooden covers1 to keep in the steam when cooking4 ,an iron valve is placed in the back flue of the furnace1 which may fall upon either side1 to shut off the fire from either of the kettles1 around which the fire may revolve2 or1 the valve may stand in a perpendicular position1 at will1 if both kettles be heated at the same time4 ,but1 as the most economical mode is to cook one kettle while the other is in process of feeding out1 and vice versa1 scarcely more than one at a time will be required in use4 ,over each kettle is a sliding door1 with a short spout to slide the food into them1 when wanted4 ,if necessary1 and it can be conveniently done1 a well may be sunk under this room1 and a pump inserted at a convenient place2 or if equally convenient1 a pipe may bring the water in from a neighboring stream1 or spring4 ,on three sides of this room are feeding pens1 7e17 and sleeping partitions1 7f17 for the swine4 ,these several apartments are accommodated with doors1 which open into separate yards on the sides and in rear1 or a large one for the entire family1 as may be desired4 ,,construction4 ,the frame of this building is of strong timber1 and stout for its size4 ,the sills should be #h inches square1 the corner posts of the same size1 and the intermediate posts #hx#f inches in diameter4 ,in the center of these posts1 grooves should be made1 #b inches wide1 and deep1 to receive the plank sides1 which should be #b inches thick1 and let in from the level of the chamber by a flush cutting for that purpose1 out of the grooves inside1 thus using no nails or spikes1 and holding the planks tight in their place1 that they may not be rooted out1 or rubbed off by the hogs1 and the inner projection of the main posts left to serve as rubbing posts for them--for no creature so loves to rub his sides1 when fatting1 as a hog1 and this very natural and praiseworthy propensity should be indulged4 ,these planks1 like the posts1 should1 particularly the lower ones1 be of hard wood1 that they may not be eaten off4 ,above the chamber floor1 thinner planks may be used1 but all should be well jointed1 that they may lie snug1 and shut out the weather4 ,the center post in the floor plan of the engraving is omitted1 by mistake1 but it should stand there1 like the others4 ,inside posts at the corners1 and in the sides of the partitions1 like the outside ones1 should be also placed and grooved to receive the planking1 four and a half feet high1 and their upper ends be secured by tenons into mortices in the beams overhead4 ,the troughs should then1 if possible1 be made of cast iron1 or1 in default of that1 the hardest of white oak plank1 strongly spiked on to the floor and sides2 and the apartment may then be called hog-proof--for a more unquiet1 destructive creature1 to a building in which he is confined1 does not live1 than the hog4 ,the slide1 or spout to conduct the swill and other feed from the feeding-room into the trough1 should be inserted through the partition planks1 with a steep slant the whole length of the trough1 that the feed may be readily thrown into any or all parts of it4 ,this slide should be of two-inch white-oak plank1 and bound along the bottom by a strip of hoop-iron1 to prevent the pigs from eating it off--a habit they are prone to2 then1 firmly spiked down to the partition planks1 and through the ends1 to the adjoining studs1 and the affair is complete4 ,with what experience we have had with the hog1 and that by no means an agreeable one1 we can devise no better method of accommodation than this here described1 and it certainly is the cheapest4 ,but the timber and lumber used must be sound and strong2 and then1 properly put together1 it may defy their most destructive ingenuity4 ,of the separate uses to which the various apartments may be put1 nothing need be said1 as the circumstances of every farmer will best govern them4 ,one1 to three hundred dollars1 according to price of material and labor1 will build this piggery1 besides fitting it up with furnace and boilers4 ,it may be contracted1 or enlarged in size1 as necessity may direct2 but no one1 with six to twenty porkers in his fatting pens1 a year1 will regret the expense of building a convenient appurtenance of this kind to his establishment4 ,a word may be pardoned1 in relation to the too universal practice of permitting swine to prowl along the highways1 and in the yards and lawns of the farm house4 ,there is nothing so slovenly1 wasteful1 and destructive to one's thrift1 and so demoralizing1 in a small way1 as is this practice4 ,what so revolting to one1 of the least tidy nature whatever1 as a villainous brute1 with a litter of filthy pigs at her heels1 and the slimy ooze of a mud-puddle reeking and dripping from their sides8 ,see the daubs of mud marking every fence-post1 far and near1 along the highway1 or where-ever they run6 ,a burrow is rooted up at every shady point1 a nuisance at every corner you turn1 and their abominable snouts into everything that is filthy1 or obscene--a living curse to all that is decent about them4 ,an ,ishmaelite among the farm stock1 they are shunned and hated by every living thing1 when at large4 ,but1 put the creature in his pen1 with a ring in his nose1 if permitted to go into the adjoining yard1 and comfortably fed1 your pig1 if of a civilized breed1 is a quiet1 inoffensive--indeed1 gentlemanly sort of animal2 and as such1 he is entitled to our toleration--regard1 we cannot say2 for in all the pages of our reading1 we learn1 by no creditable history1 of any virtuous sympathies in a hog4 ,,farm ,,barns4 ,the farm barn1 next to the farm house1 is the most important structure of the farm itself1 in the ,northern and ,middle ,states2 and even at the south and southwest1 where less used1 they are of more importance in the economy of farm management than is generally supposed4 ,indeed1 to our own eyes1 a farm1 or a plantation appears incomplete1 without a good barn accommodation1 as much as without good household appointments--and without them1 no agricultural establishment can be complete in all its proper economy4 ,the most thorough barn structures1 perhaps1 to be seen in the ,united ,states1 are those of the state of ,pennsylvania1 built by the ,german farmers of the lower and central counties4 ,they are large1 and expensive in their construction2 and1 in a strictly economical view1 perhaps more costly than required4 ,yet1 there is a substance and durability in them1 that is exceedingly satisfactory1 and1 where the pecuniary ability of the farmer will permit1 may well be an example for imitation4 ,in the structure of the barn1 and in its interior accommodation1 much will depend upon the branches of agriculture to which the farm is devoted4 ,a farm cultivated in grain chiefly1 requires but little room for stabling purposes4 ,storage for grain in the sheaf1 and granaries1 will require its room2 while a stock farm requires a barn with extensive hay storage1 and stables for its cattle1 horses1 and sheep1 in all climates not admitting such stock to live through the winter in the field1 like the great grazing states west of the ,alleghanies4 ,again1 there are wide districts of country where a mixed husbandry of grain and stock is pursued1 which require barns and out-buildings accommodating both2 and to supply the exigencies of each1 we shall present such plans as may be appropriate1 and that may1 possibly1 by a slight variation1 be equally adapted to either1 or all of their requirements4 ,it may not be out of place here1 to remark1 that many designers of barns1 sheds1 and other out-buildings for the accommodation of farm stock1 have indulged in fanciful arrangements for the convenience and comfort of animals1 which are so complicated that when constructed1 as they sometimes are1 the practical1 common-sense farmer will not use them2 and1 in the learning required in their use1 are altogether unfit for the use and treatment they usually get from those who have the daily care of the stock which they are intended for1 and for the rough usage they receive from the animals themselves4 ,a very pretty1 and a very plausible arrangement of stabling1 and feeding1 and all the etceteras of a barn establishment1 may be thus got up by an ingenious theorist at the fireside1 which will work to a charm1 as he dilates upon its good qualities1 untried2 but1 when subjected to experiment will be utterly worthless for practical use4 ,all this we1 in our practice1 have gone through2 and after many years experience1 have come to the conclusion that the simplest plan of construction1 consistent with an economical expenditure of the material of food for the consumption of stock1 is by far the most preferable4 ,another item to be considered in this connection1 is the comparative value of the stock1 the forage fed to them1 and the labor expended in feeding and taking care of them4 ,we will illustrate3 ,suppose a farm to lie in the vicinity of a large town1 or city4 ,its value is1 perhaps1 a hundred dollars an acre4 ,the hay cut upon it is worth fifteen dollars a ton1 at the barn1 and straw1 and coarse grains in proportion1 and hired labor ten or twelve dollars a month4 ,consequently1 the manager of this farm should use all the economy in his power1 by the aid of cutting-boxes1 and other machinery1 to make the least amount of forage supply the wants of his stock2 and the internal economy of his barn arranged accordingly2 because labor is his cheapest item1 and food the dearest4 ,then1 for any contrivance to work up his forage the closest--by way of machinery1 or manual labor--by which it will serve the purposes of keeping his stock1 is true economy2 and the making1 and saving of manures is an item of the first importance4 ,his buildings1 and their arrangements throughout1 should1 on these accounts1 be constructed in accordance with his practice4 ,if1 on the other hand1 lands are cheap and productive1 and labor comparatively dear1 a different practice will prevail4 ,he will feed his hay from the mow1 without cutting4 ,the straw will be either stacked out1 and the cattle turned to it1 to pick what they like of it1 and make their beds on the remainder2 or1 if it is housed1 he will throw it into racks1 and the stock may eat what they choose4 ,it is but one-third1 or one-half the labor to do this1 that the other mode requires1 and the saving in this makes up1 and perhaps more than makes up for the increased quantity of forage consumed4 ,again1 climate may equally affect the mode of winter feeding the stock4 ,the winters may be mild4 ,the hay may be stacked in the fields1 when gathered1 or put into small barns built for hay storage alone2 and the manure1 scattered over the fields by the cattle1 as they are fed from either of them1 may be knocked to pieces with the dung-beetle1 in the spring1 or harrowed and bushed over the ground2 and with the very small quantity of labor required in all this1 such practice will be more economical than any other which can be adopted4 ,it is1 therefore1 a subject of deliberate study with the farmer1 in the construction of his out-buildings1 what plans he shall adopt in regard to them1 and their fitting up and arrangement4 ,with these considerations before us1 we shall submit such plans of barn structures as may be adapted for general use1 where shelters for the farm crops1 and farm stock1 are required2 and which may1 in their interior arrangement1 be fitted for almost any locality of our country1 as the judgment and the wants of the builder may require4 ,,design ,i4 ,this is a design of barn partially on the ,pennsylvania plan1 with under-ground stables1 and a stone-walled basement on three sides1 with a line of posts standing open on the yard front1 and a wall1 pierced by doors and windows1 retreating #ab feet under the building1 giving1 in front1 a shelter for stock4 ,two sheds1 by way of wings1 are run out to any desired length1 on each side4 ,the body of this barn1 which is built of wood1 above the basement1 is #fjx#df feet2 the posts #ah feet high1 above the sills2 the roof is elevated at an angle of #dj;deg from a horizontal line1 and the gables hooded1 or truncated1 #ad feet wide at the verge1 so as to cover the large doors at the ends4 ,the main roof spreads #c to #d feet over the body of the barn1 and runs from the side eaves in a straight line1 different from what is shown in the engraving1 which appears of a gambrel or hipped fashion4 ,the sides are covered with boards laid vertically1 and battened with narrow strips1 #c inches wide4 ,the large doors in the ends are #ad feet wide1 and #ad feet high4 ,a slatted blind window is in each gable1 for ventilation1 and a door1 #ix#f feet1 on the yard side4 ,illustration ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,a main floor1 ,a1 #ab feet wide1 runs the whole length through the center of the barn4 ,s1 ,s1 are the large doors4 ,h1 ,h1 are trap doors1 to let hay or straw down to the alleys of the stables beneath4 ,b1 is the principal bay for hay storage1 #af feet wide1 and runs up to the roof4 ,c1 is the bay1 #bfx#af feet1 for the grain mow1 if required for that purpose4 ,d1 is a granary1 #acx#af feet1 and #h feet high4 ,e1 a storage room for fanning mill1 cutting-box1 or other machinery1 or implements1 of same size and height as the granary4 ,f1 is a passage1 #h feet wide1 leading from the main floor to the yard door1 through which to throw out litter4 ,over this passage1 and the granary1 and store-room1 may be stored grain in the sheaf1 or hay4 ,the main floor will accommodate the thrashing-machine1 horse-power1 cutting box1 c41 c41 when at work4 ,a line of movable sleepers1 or poles1 may be laid across the floor1 #aj feet above it1 on a line of girts framed into the main posts1 for that purpose1 over which1 when the sides of the barn are full1 either hay or grain may be deposited1 up to the ridge of the roof1 and thus afford large storage4 ,and if the demands of the crops require it1 after the sides and over the floor is thus filled1 the floor itself may1 a part of it1 be used for packing away either hay or grain1 by taking off the team after the load is in1 and passing them out by a retreating process1 on the side of the cart or wagon2 and the vehicle1 when unloaded1 backed out by hand4 ,we have occasionally adopted this method1 when crowded for room for increased crops1 to great advantage4 ,it requires somewhat more labor1 to be sure1 but it is much better than stacking out2 and a well-filled barn is a good sight to look upon4 ,illustration3 ,,main ,,floor ,,plan4 ,underneath the body of the barn are the stables1 root cellar1 calf houses1 or any other accommodation which the farm stock may require2 but1 for the most economical objects1 is here cut up into stables4 ,at the ends1 l1 l1 are passages for the stock to go into their stalls2 and also1 on the sides1 for the men who attend to them4 ,the main passage through the center double line of stalls is #h feet wide2 and on each side are double stalls1 #f-a_/b feet wide4 ,from the two end walls1 the cattle passages are #e feet wide1 the partition between the stalls running back in a slant1 from #e feet high at the mangers to the floor1 at that distance from the walls4 ,the mangers1 j1 j1 are #b feet wide1 or may be #b-a_/b feet1 by taking an additional six inches out of the rear passage4 ,the passage is1 between the mangers1 #c feet wide1 to receive the hay from the trap doors in the floor above4 ,illustration3 ,,under-,,ground ,,plan ,,and ,,yard4 ,the most economical plan1 for room in tying cattle in their stalls1 is to fasten the rope1 or chain1 whichever is used1 7the wooden stanchion1 or stanchel1 as it is called1 to open and shut1 enclosing the animal by the neck1 we do not like17 into a ring1 which is secured by a strong staple into the post which sustains the partition1 just at the top of the manger1 on each side of the stall4 ,this prevents the cattle in the same stall from interfering with each other1 while the partition effectually prevents any contact from the animals on each side of it1 in the separate stalls4 ,the bottom of the mangers1 for grown cattle1 should be a foot above the floor1 and the top two and a half feet1 which makes it deep enough to hold their food2 and the whole1 both sides and bottom1 should be made of two-inch1 sound1 strong plank1 that they may not be broken down4 ,the back sides of the stalls1 next the feeding alleys1 should be full #c-a_/b feet high2 and if the cattle are large1 and disposed to climb into their mangers with their fore-feet1 as they sometimes do1 a pole1 of #b-a_/b or #c inches in diameter1 should be secured across the front of the stall1 next the cattle1 and over the mangers--say #d-a_/b feet above the floor1 to keep them out of the manger1 and still give them sufficient room for putting their heads between that and the top of the manger1 to get their food4 ,cattle thus secured in double stalls1 take up less room1 and lie much warmer1 than when in single stalls2 besides1 the expense of fitting them up being much less--an experience of many years has convinced us on this point4 ,the doors for the passage of the cattle in and out of the stables1 should be five feet wide1 that they may have plenty of room4 ,in front of these stables1 on the outside1 is a line of posts1 the feet of which rest on large flat stones1 and support the outer sill of the barn1 and form a recess1 before named1 of #ab feet in width1 under which may be placed a line of racks1 or mangers for outside cattle1 to consume the orts1 or leavings of hay rejected by the in-door stock2 or1 the manure may be housed under it1 which is removed from the stables by wheel-barrows4 ,the low line of sheds which extend from the barn on each side of the yard1 may be used for the carts1 and wagons of the place2 or1 racks and mangers may be fitted up in them1 for outside cattle to consume the straw and coarse forage2 or1 they may be carried higher than in our plan1 and floored overhead1 and hay1 or other food stored in them for the stock4 ,they are so placed merely to give the idea4 ,there may be no more fitting occasion than this1 perhaps1 to make a remark or two on the subject of managing stock in stables of any kind1 when kept in any considerable numbers2 and a word may not be impertinent to the subject in hand1 as connected with the construction of stables4 ,there is no greater benefit to cattle1 after coming into winter quarters1 than a straight-forward regularity in everything appertaining to them4 ,every animal should have its own particular stall in the stable1 where it should always be kept1 and in no other4 ,the cattle should be fed and watered at certain hours of the day1 as near as may be4 ,when let out of the stables for water1 unless the weather is very pleasant1 when they may be permitted to lie out an hour or two1 they should be immediately put back1 and not allowed to range about with the outside cattle4 ,they are more quiet and contented in their stables than elsewhere1 and eat less food1 than if permitted to run out2 and are every way more comfortable1 if properly bedded and attended to1 as every one will find1 on trying it4 ,the habit of many people1 in turning their cattle out of the stables in the morning1 in all weathers--letting them range about in a cold yard1 hooking and thorning each other--is of no possible benefit1 unless to rid themselves of the trouble of cleaning the stables1 which pays twice its cost in the saving of manure4 ,the outside cattle1 which occupy the yard1 are all the better1 that the stabled ones do not interfere with them4 ,they become habituated to their own quarters1 as the others do to their's1 and all are better for being each in their own proper place4 ,it may appear a small matter to notice this2 but it is a subject of importance1 which every one may know who tries it4 ,it will be seen that a driving way is built up to the barn doors at the ends2 this need not be expensive1 and will add greatly to the ease and convenience of its approach4 ,it is needless to remark1 that this barn is designed to stand on a shelving piece of ground1 or on a slope1 which will admit of its cellar stables without much excavation of the earth2 and in such a position it may be economically built4 ,no estimate is given of its cost1 which must depend upon the price of materials1 and the convenience of stone on the farm4 ,the size is not arbitrary1 but may be either contracted or extended1 according to the requirements of the builder4 ,illustration ,,design ,,ii4 ,here is presented the design of a barn built by ourself1 about sixteen years since1 and standing on the farm we own and occupy2 and which has proved so satisfactory in its use1 that1 save in one or two small particulars1 which are here amended1 we would not1 for a stock barn1 alter it in any degree1 nor exchange it for one of any description whatever4 ,for the farmer who needs one of but half the size1 or greater1 or less1 it may be remarked that the extent of this need be no hindrance to the building of one of any size--as the general design may be adopted1 and carried out1 either in whole or in part1 according to his wants1 and the economy of its accommodation preserved throughout4 ,the principle of the structure is what is intended to be shown4 ,the main body of this barn stands on the ground1 #ajjx#ej feet1 with eighteen-feet posts1 and a broad1 sheltering roof1 of #dj;deg pitch from a horizontal line1 and truncated at the gables to the width of the main doors below4 ,the sills stand #d feet above the ground1 and a raised driving way to the doors admits the loads of grain and forage into it4 ,the manner of building the whole structure would be1 to frame and put up the main building as if it was to have no attachment whatever1 and put on the roof1 and board up the gable ends4 ,then frame1 and raise adjoining it1 on the long sides1 and on the rear end--for the opposite gable end to that1 is the entrance front to the barn--a continuous lean-to1 #af feet wide1 attaching it to the posts of the barn1 strongly1 by girts4 ,these ranges of lean-to stand on the ground level1 nearly--high enough1 however1 to let a terrier dog under the floors1 to keep out the rats--but quite #c feet below the sills of the barn4 ,the outer posts of the lean-to's should be #ab feet high1 and #ab-a_/b feet apart1 from center to center1 except at the extreme corners1 which would be #af feet4 ,one foot below the roof-plates of the main building1 and across the rear gable end1 a line of girts should be framed into the posts1 as a rest for the upper ends of the lean-to rafters1 that they may pass under1 and a foot below the lower ends of the main roof rafters1 to make a break in the roof of one foot1 and allow a line of eave gutters under it1 if needed1 and to show the lean-to line of roof as distinct from the other4 ,the stables are #g feet high1 from the lower floor to the girts overhead1 which connect them with the main line of barn posts2 thus giving a loft of #d feet in height at the eaves1 and of #ab feet at the junction with the barn4 ,in this loft is large storage for hay1 and coarse forage1 and bedding for the cattle1 which is put in by side windows1 level with the loft floor--as seen in the plate4 ,in the center of the rear1 end lean-to1 is a large door1 corresponding with the front entrance to the barn1 as shown in the design1 #ab feet high1 and #ad feet wide1 to pass out the wagons and carts which have discharged their loads in the barn1 having entered at the main front door4 ,a line of board1 one foot wide1 between the line of the main and lean-to roofs1 is then nailed on1 to shut up the space2 and the rear gable end boarded down to the roof of the lean-to attached to it4 ,the front end1 and the stables on them vertically boarded1 and battened1 as directed in the last design2 the proper doors and windows inserted1 and the outside is finished4 ,illustration3 ,,floor ,,plan4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,entering the large door1 7a17 at the front end1 #ad feet wide1 and #ad feet high1 the main floor 7g17 passes through the entire length of the barn1 and rear lean-to1 #aaf feet--the last #af feet through the lean-to--and sloping #c feet to the outer sill1 and door1 7a17 of that appendage4 ,on the left of the entrance is a recess1 7e17 of #bjx#ah feet1 to be used as a thrashing floor1 and for machinery1 cutting feed1 c41 c4--#e feet next the end being cut off for a passage to the stable4 ,beyond this is a bay1 7b17 #ahx#gj feet1 for the storage of hay1 or grain1 leaving a passage at the further end1 of #e feet wide1 to go into the further stables4 ,this bay is bounded on the extreme left1 by the line of outside posts of the barn4 ,on the right of the main door is a granary1 7d17 #ajx#ah feet1 two stories high1 and a flight of steps leading from the lower into the upper room4 ,beyond this is another bay1 7b17 corresponding with the one just described on the opposite side4 ,the passages at the ends of the bays1 7e1 e17 have steps of #c feet descent1 to bring them down on to a level with the stable floors of the lean-to4 ,a passage in each of the two long side lean-to's1 7e1 e17 #c feet wide1 receives the hay forage for cattle1 or other stock1 thrown into them from the bays1 and the lofts over the stables2 and from them is thrown into the mangers1 7h1 h47 ,the two apartments in the extreme end lean-to1 7f1 f17 #cdx#af feet each1 may be occupied as a hospital for invalid cattle1 or partitioned off for calves1 or any other purpose4 ,a calving house for the cows which come in during the winter1 is always convenient1 and one of these may be used for such purpose4 ,the stalls1 7i1 i17 are the same as described in ,design ,i1 and back of them is the passage for the cattle1 as they pass in and out of their stalls4 ,the stable doors1 7j1 j17 are six in number4 ,small windows1 for ventilation1 should be cut in the rear of the stalls1 as marked1 and for throwing out the manure1 with sliding board shutters4 ,this completes the barn accommodation--giving twenty-eight double stalls1 where fifty-six grown cattle may be tied up1 with rooms for twenty to thirty calves in the end stables4 ,if a larger stock is kept1 young cattle may be tied up1 with their heads to the bays1 on the main floor1 beyond the thrashing floor1 which we practice4 ,this will hold forty young cattle4 ,the manure is taken out on a wheel-barrow1 and no injury done to the floor4 ,they will soon eat out a place where their forage can be put1 and do no injury beyond that to the hay in the bays1 as it is too closely packed for them to draw it out any farther4 ,in this way we can accommodate more than a hundred head of cattle1 of assorted ages4 ,the hay in the bays may drop three feet below the level of the main floor1 by placing a tier of rough timbers and poles across them1 to keep it from the ground1 and many tons of additional storage be thus provided4 ,we have often stored one hundred and fifty tons of hay in this barn2 and it will hold even more1 if thoroughly packed1 and the movable girts over the main floor be used1 as described in ,design ,i4 ,the chief advantages in a barn of this plan are1 the exceeding convenience of getting the forage to the stock4 ,when the barn is full1 and feeding is first commenced1 with a hay knife1 we commence on each side next the stables1 on the top of the bays1 cut a well down to the alley way in front of the mangers1 which is left open up to the stable roof4 ,this opens a passage for the hay to be thrown into the alleys1 and in a short time it is so fed out on each side1 that1 the sides of the main barn being open to them1 the hay can be thrown along their whole distance1 and fed to the cattle as wanted2 and so at the rear end stables1 in the five-foot alley adjoining them4 ,if a root cellar be required1 it may be made under the front part of the main floor1 and a trap-door lead to it4 ,for a milk dairy1 this arrangement is an admirable one--we so used it for four years2 or for stall-feeding1 it is equally convenient4 ,one man will do more work1 so far as feeding is concerned1 in this barn1 than two can do in one of almost any other arrangement2 and the yards outside may be divided into five separate inclosures1 with but little expense1 and still be large enough for the cattle that may want to use them4 ,it matters not what kind of stock may be kept in this barn2 it is convenient for all alike4 ,even sheep may be accommodated in it with convenience4 ,but low1 open sheds1 inclosed by a yard1 are better for them2 with storage for hay overhead1 and racks and troughs beneath4 ,this barn is built of wood4 ,it may be well constructed1 with stone underpinning1 without mortar1 for #a1jjj to #a1ejj1 as the price of materials may govern4 ,and if the collection of the water from the roofs be an object1 cheap gutters to carry it into one or more cisterns may be added1 at an expense of #bjj to #cjj4 ,as before observed1 a barn may be built on this principle1 of any size1 and the stables1 or lean-to's may only attach to one side or end2 or they may be built as mere sheds1 with no storage room over the cattle4 ,the chief objection to stabling cattle in the body of the barn is1 the continual decay of the most important timbers1 such as sills1 sleepers1 c41 c41 by the leakage of the stale1 and manure of the cattle on to them1 and the loss of so much valuable storage as they would occupy1 for hay and grain4 ,by the plan described1 the stables have no attachment to the sills1 and other durable barn timbers below2 and if the stable sills and sleepers decay1 they are easily and cheaply replaced with others4 ,taking it altogether1 we can recommend no better1 nor1 as we think1 so good1 and so cheap a plan for a stock barn1 as this4 ,we deem it unnecessary to discuss the subject of water to cattle yards1 as every farm has its own particular accommodations1 or inconveniences in that regard2 and the subject of leading water by pipes into different premises1 is too well understood to require remark4 ,where these can not be had1 and springs or streams are not at hand1 wells and pumps must be provided1 in as much convenience as the circumstances of the case will admit4 ,water is absolutely necessary1 and that in quantity1 for stock uses2 and every good manager will exercise his best judgment to obtain it4 ,,barn ,,attachments4 ,it may be expected1 perhaps1 that in treating so fully as we have of the several kinds of farm building1 a full cluster of out-buildings should be drawn and exhibited1 showing their relative positions and accommodation4 ,this can not be done1 however1 except as a matter of fancy2 and if attempted1 might not be suited to the purposes of a single individual1 by reason of the particular location where they would be situated1 and the accommodation which the buildings might require4 ,convenience of access to the barns1 from the fields where the crops are grown1 a like convenience to get out manures upon those fields1 and a ready communication with the dwelling house1 are a part of the considerations which are to govern their position1 or locality4 ,economy in labor1 in the various avocations at the barn1 and its necessary attachments2 and the greatest convenience in storage1 and the housing of the various stock1 grains1 implements1 and whatever else may demand accommodation1 are other considerations to be taken into the account1 all to have a bearing upon them4 ,compactness is always an object in such buildings1 when not obtained at a sacrifice of some greater advantage1 and should be one of the items considered in placing them2 and in their construction1 next to the arrangement of them in the most convenient possible manner for their various objects1 a due regard to their architectural appearance should be studied4 ,such appearance1 where their objects are apparent1 can easily be secured4 ,utility should be their chief point of expression2 and no style of architecture1 or finish1 can be really bad1 where this expression is duly consulted1 and carried out1 even in the humblest way of cheapness1 or rusticity4 ,we have heretofore sufficiently remarked on the folly of unnecessary pretension in the farm buildings1 of any kind2 and nothing can appear1 and really be more out of place1 than ambitious structures intended only for the stock1 and crops4 ,extravagant expenditure on these1 any more than an extravagant expenditure on the dwelling and its attachments1 does not add to the selling value of the farm1 nor to its economical management1 in a productive capacity2 and he who is about to build1 should make his proposed buildings a study for months1 in all their different requirements and conveniences1 before he commences their erection4 ,mistakes in their design1 and location1 have cost men a whole after life of wear-and-tear of temper1 patience1 and labor1 to themselves1 and to all who were about them2 and it is better to wait even two or three years1 to fully mature the best plans of building1 than by hurrying1 to mis-locate1 mis-arrange1 and miss1 in fact1 the very best application in their structure of which such buildings are capable4 ,a word might also be added about barn-yards4 ,the planning and management of these1 also1 depends much upon the course the farmer has to pursue in the keeping of his stock1 the amount of waste litter1 such as straw1 c41 which he has to dispose of1 and the demands of the farm for animal and composted manures4 ,there are different methods of constructing barn-yards1 in different parts of the country1 according to climate and soils1 and the farmer must best consult his own experience1 the most successful examples about him1 and the publications which treat of that subject1 in its connection with farm husbandry1 to which last subject this item more properly belongs4 ,,rabbits4 ,it may appear that we are extending our ,rural ,architecture to an undue length1 in noticing a subject so little attended to in this country as ,rabbit accommodations4 ,but1 as with other small matters which we have noticed1 this may create a new source of interest and attachment to country life1 we conclude to give it a place4 ,it is a matter of surprise to an ,american first visiting ,england1 to see the quantities of game which abound at certain seasons of the year in the ,london and other markets of that country1 in contrast with the scanty supply1 or rather no supply at all1 existing in the markets of ,american cities4 ,the reason for such difference is1 that in ,england1 ,scotland1 ,wales1 and ,ireland1 every acre of the soil is appropriated to some profitable use1 while we1 from the abundance of land in ,america1 select only the best for agricultural purposes1 and let the remainder go barren and uncared for4 ,lands appropriated to the rearing of game1 when fit for farm pasturage or tillage1 is unprofitable1 generally1 with us2 but there are thousands of acres barren for other purposes1 that might be devoted to the breeding and pasturage of rabbits1 and which1 by thus appropriating them1 might be turned to profitable account4 ,all the preparation required is1 to enclose the ground with a high and nearly close paling fence1 and the erection of a few rude hutches inside1 for winter shelter and the storage of their food4 ,they will burrow into the ground1 and breed with great rapidity2 and in the fall and winter seasons1 they will be fat for market with the food they gather from the otherwise worthless soil over which they run4 ,rocky1 bushy1 and evergreen grounds1 either hill1 dale1 or plain1 are good for them1 wherever the soils are dry and friable4 ,the rabbit is a gross feeder1 living well on what many grazing animals reject1 and gnawing down all kinds of bushes1 briars1 and noxious weeds4 ,the common domestic rabbits are probably the best for market purposes1 and were they to be made an object of attention1 immense tracts of mountain land in ,new ,jersey1 ,pennsylvania1 and the ,new ,york and ,new ,england highlands could be made available for this object4 ,some may think this a small business4 ,so is making pins1 and rearing chickens1 and bees4 ,but there are an abundance of people1 whose age and capacity are just fitted for it1 and for want of other employment are a charge upon their friends or the public2 and now1 when our cities and large towns are so readily reached by railroads from all parts of the country1 our farmers should study to apply their land to the production of everything that will find a profitable market4 ,things unthought of1 a few years ago1 now find a large consumption in our large cities and towns1 by the aid of railroads2 and we know of no good reason1 why this production and traffic should not continue to an indefinite extent4 ,when the breeding of rabbits is commenced1 get a good treatise on the breeding and rearing of them1 which may be found at many of the bookstores4 ,as the rearing of rabbits1 and their necessary accommodation1 is not a subject to which we have given much personal attention1 we applied to ,francis ,rotch1 ,esq41 of ,morris1 ,otsego county1 ,new ,york1 who is probably the most accomplished rabbit fancier in the ,united ,states1 for information1 with which he has kindly furnished us4 ,his beautiful and high-bred animals have won the highest premiums1 at the shows of the ,new ,york ,state ,agricultural ,society4 ,he thus answers3 ,i now forward you the promised plan from ,mr4 ,alfred ,rodman1 of ,dedham1 ,massachusetts1 which1 ,i think1 will give you the information you wish upon these subjects4 ,rabbits kept for profit in the vicinity of a city1 and where there are mills1 may be raised at a very small cost2 and when once known as an article of food1 will be liberally paid for by the epicure1 for their meat is as delicate as a chicken's1 and their fat mild1 and very rich4 ,i am surprised they are not more generally kept1 as a source of amusement1 and for the purposes of experiment4 ,there is1 ,i think1 in many1 a natural fondness for animals1 but not easily indulged without more room than is often to be found in city residences4 ,fowls1 and pigeons1 trespass on our neighbors1 and are a frequent cause of trouble4 ,this objection does not hold good against the rabbit1 which occupies so small a space1 that where there is an outhouse there may be a rabbitry4 ,english children are encouraged in their fondness for animals1 as tending to good morals and good feelings1 and as offering a home amusement1 in contradistinction to street associations4 ,illustration3 ,drawn from life1 by ,mr4 ,,francis ,,rotch4 ,mr4 ,rotch continues3 ,i have just finished the enclosed drawing of a 'fancy rabbit1' which ,i hope will answer your purpose1 as an illustration of what the little animal should be in form1 color1 marking1 and carriage1 according to the decisions of the various societies in and out of ,london1 who are its greatest admirers and patrons4 ,these amateurs hold frequent meetings for its exhibition1 at which premiums are awarded1 and large prizes paid for such specimens as come up to their standard of excellence4 ,this standard is1 of course1 conventional2 and1 as might be expected1 is a combination of form and color very difficult to obtain--based1 it is true1 on the most correct principles of general breeding2 but much of fancy and beauty is added to complete the requisites of a prize rabbit4 ,for instance1 the head must be small and clean2 the shoulders wide and full2 the chest broad and deep2 the back wide1 and the loin large4 ,thus far1 these are the characteristics of all really good and improved animals2 to which are to be added1 on the score of 'fancy1' an eye round1 full1 and bright2 an ear long1 broad1 and pendant1 of a soft1 delicate texture1 dropping nearly perpendicularly by the side of the head--this is termed its 'carriage4' ,the color must be in rich1 unmixed masses on the body1 spreading itself over the back1 side1 and haunch1 but breaking into spots and patches on the shoulder1 called the 'chain2' while that on the back is known as the 'saddle4' ,the head must be full of color1 broken with white on the forehead and cheeks2 the marking over the bridge of the nose and down on both sides into the lips1 should be dark1 and in shape somewhat resembling a butterfly1 from which this mark takes its name2 the ear1 however1 must be uniform in color4 ,add to all this1 a large1 full dewlap1 and you will have a rabbit fit to 'go in and win4' ,the most esteemed colors are black and white2 yellow and white2 tortoise-shell and white2 blue and white1 and gray and white4 ,these are called 'broken colors1' while those of one uniform color are called 'selfs4' ,it will be observed that ,mr4 ,rotch here describes a beautiful fancy variety of lop-eared rabbits1 which he brought from ,england a few years since4 ,they were1 originally1 natives of ,madagascar4 ,he continues3 ,the domestic rabbit1 in all its varieties1 has always been1 and still is1 a great favorite1 in many parts of the ,european continent3 ,in ,holland1 it is bred with reference to color only1 which must be a pure white1 with dark ears1 feet1 legs1 and tail2 this distribution has a singular effect1 but1 withal1 it is a pretty little creature4 ,the ,french breed a long1 rangy animal1 of great apparent size1 but deficient in depth and breadth1 and of course1 wanting in constitution2 no attention is paid to color1 and its marking is matter of accident4 ,the ,white ,angola1 with its beautiful long fur and red eyes1 is also a great favorite in ,france4 ,in ,england1 the rabbit formerly held the rank of 'farm stock6' and thousands of acres were exclusively devoted to its production2 families were supported1 and rents1 rates1 and taxes were paid from its increase and sale4 ,the 'gray-skins' went to the hatter1 the 'silver-skins' were shipped to ,china1 and were dressed as furs2 while the flesh was a favorite dish at home4 ,this was the course pursued in ,yorkshire1 ,lincolnshire1 and many other counties1 with their light sandy soils1 before the more general introduction of root culture1 and the rotation of crops1 gave an increased value to such land4 ,since then1 however1 ,i remember visiting a farm of ,lord ,onslow's1 in ,surrey1 containing about #a1djj acres4 ,it was in the occupation of an eminent flock-master and agriculturist1 who kept some hundreds of hutched rabbits for the sake of their manure1 which he applied to his turnep crop2 added to this1 their skins and carcasses were quite an item of profit1 notwithstanding the care of them required an old man and boy1 with a donkey and cart4 ,the food used was chiefly brewer's grains1 miller's waste1 bran and hay1 with clover and roots1 the cost of keeping not exceeding two pence a week4 ,the hutches stood under a long shed1 open on all sides1 for the greater convenience of cleaning and feeding4 ,i was told that the manure was much valued by the market gardeners round ,london1 who readily paid #bs4 #f;d4 a bushel at the rabbitries4 ,these rabbitries are very numerous in all the towns and cities of ,england1 and form a source of amusement or profit to all classes1 from the man of fortune to the day laborer4 ,nor is it unfrequent that this latter produces a rabbit from an old tea-chest1 or dry-goods box1 that wins the prize from its competitor of the mahogany hutch or ornamental rabbitry4 ,the food of the rabbit embraces great variety1 including grain of all kinds1 bran1 pea-chaff1 miller's waste1 brewer's grains1 clover and other hay1 and the various weeds known as plantain1 dock1 mallow1 dandelion1 purslain1 thistles1 c41 c4 ,the rabbit thus easily conforms itself to the means1 condition1 and circumstances of its owner2 occupies but little space1 breeds often1 comes early to maturity1 and is withal1 a healthy animal1 requiring however1 to be kept clean1 and to be cautiously fed with succulent food1 which must always be free from dew or rain--water is unnecessary to them when fed with 'greens4' ,my own course of feeding is1 one gill of oats in the morning1 with a medium-sized cabbage leaf1 or what ,i may consider its equivalent in any other vegetable food1 for the rabbit in confinement must be1 as already stated1 cautiously fed with what is succulent4 ,at noon1 ,i feed a handfull of cut hay or clover chaff1 and in the evening the same as in the morning4 ,to does1 when suckling1 ,i give what they will eat of both green and dry food4 ,the cost to me is about three cents per week1 per head4 ,i by no means recommend this as the best1 or the most economical mode of feeding1 but it happens to suit my convenience4 ,were ,i in a town1 or near mills1 ,i should make use of other and cheaper substitutes4 ,my young rabbits1 when taken from the doe1 say at eight1 ten1 or twelve weeks old1 are turned out together till about six months old1 when it becomes necessary to take them up1 and put them in separate hutches1 to prevent their fighting and destroying each other4 ,the doe at that age is ready to breed2 her period of gestation is about thirty-one or two days1 and she produces from three or four to a dozen young at a 'litter'4 ,it is not well to let her raise more than six1 or even four at once--the fewer1 the larger and finer the produce4 ,young rabbits are killed for the table at any age1 from twelve weeks to twelve months old1 and are a very acceptable addition to the country larder4 ,the male is not allowed to remain with the doe1 lest he should destroy the young ones4 ,hutches are made singly1 or in stacks1 to suit the apartment1 which should be capable of thorough ventilation4 ,the best size is about three feet long1 two feet deep1 and fourteen inches high1 with a small apartment partitioned off from one end1 nearly a foot wide1 as a breeding place for the doe4 ,a wire door forms the front1 and an opening is left behind for cleaning2 the floor should have a descent to the back of the hutch of two inches4 ,all edges should be tinned1 to save them from being gnawed4 ,having now given the leading characteristics and qualities which constitute a good 'fancy lop-eared rabbit1' and its general management1 allow me to remark on the striking difference observable between ,americans and the people of many other countries1 as to a fondness for animals1 or what are termed 'fancy pets1' of and for which we1 as a people1 know and care very little4 ,indeed1 we scarcely admit more than a selfish fellowship with the dog1 and but too seldom does our attachment even for this faithful companion1 place him beyond the reach of the omnipotent dollar4 ,the operatives1 mechanics1 and laborers1 in other countries1 seem to have a perfect passion for such pursuits1 and take the greatest interest and pride in breeding and perfecting the lesser animals1 though often obliged to toil for the very food they feed to them4 ,here1 too1 home influences are perceived to be good1 and are encouraged by the employer1 as supplying the place of other and much more questionable pursuits and tastes4 ,we here present the elevation1 and floor plan of ,mr4 ,rodman's rabbitry1 together with the front and rear views of the hutches within them3 ,illustration3 ,,elevation4 ,,main ,,floor ,,plan4 ,no4 #a is the gable end elevation of the building1 with a door and window4 ,no4 #b is the main-floor plan1 or living room for the rabbits4 ,,explanation4 ,a1 the doe's hutches1 with nest boxes attached4 ,b1 hutches three feet long1 with movable partitions for the young rabbits2 the two lower hutches are used for the stock bucks4 ,c1 a tier of grain boxes on the floor for feeding the rabbits--the covers sloping out toward the room4 ,d1 small trapdoor1 leading into the manure cellar beneath4 ,e1 large trapdoor leading into root cellar4 ,f1 troughs for leading off urine from rear of hutches into the manure cellar at ,k1 ,k4 ,g1 wooden trunk leading from chamber above ,no4 #c1 through this into manure cellar4 ,h1 trap opening into manure cellar4 ,i1 stairs leading into loft ,no4 #c1 with hinged trapdoor overhead2 when open1 it will turn up against the wall1 and leave a passage to clear out the hutches4 ,,note4--,the grain boxes are one foot high in front1 and fifteen inches at the back1 with sloping bottoms1 and sloping covers4 ,the floors of the hutches have a slope of two inches back4 ,the hutches are furnished1 at the back of the floor1 with pieces of zinc1 to keep them free from the drippings from above4 ,the hutches are #af inches high1 #c feet long1 and #b feet deep4 ,the foregoing plans and explanations might perhaps be sufficient for the guidance of such as wish to construct a rabbitry for their own use2 but as a complete arrangement of all the rooms which may be conveniently appropriated to this object1 to make it a complete thing1 may be acceptable to the reader1 we conclude1 even at the risk of prolixity1 to insert the upper loft1 and cellar apartments1 with which we have been furnished2 hoping that our youthful friends will set themselves about the construction of a branch of rural employment so home-attaching in its associations4 ,illustration3 ,,loft ,,or ,,garret4 ,no4 #c is the loft or chamber story1 next above the main floor4 ,,explanation4 ,a1 place for storing hay4 ,b1 stairs leading from below4 ,c1 room for young rabbits4 ,d1 trapdoor into trunk leading to manure cellar4 ,e1 partition four feet high4 ,this allows of ventilation between the two windows1 in summer1 which would be cut off1 were the partition carried all the way up4 ,illustration3 ,,cellar4 ,no4 #d is the cellar under the rabbitry4 ,,explanation4 ,a1 manure cellar4 ,b1 root cellar4 ,c1 stairs leading to first1 or main floor4 ,d1 stairs leading outside4 ,e1 window--lighting both rooms of cellar4 ,no4 #e is a front section of rabbit hutches1 eight in number1 two in a line1 four tiers high1 one above another1 with wire-screened doors1 hinges1 and buttons for fastening4 ,a1 the grain trough1 is at the bottom4 ,no4 #f is the floor section of the hutches1 falling1 as before mentioned1 two inches from front to rear4 ,illustration3 ,,front ,,of ,,hutch4 ,,rear ,,of ,,hutch4 ,a1 is the door to lift up1 for cleaning out the floors4 ,b1 is the zinc plate1 to carry off the urine and running wash of the floors4 ,c1 is the trough for carrying off this offal into the manure cellars1 through the trunk1 as seen in ,no4 #b4 ,no4 #g is a rear section of hutches1 same as in ,no4 #e1 with the waste trough at the bottom leading into the trench before described1 with the cross section1 ,no4 #h1 before described in ,no4 #f4 ,a1 a grated door at the back of the hutch1 for ventilation in summer1 and covered with a thin board in winter4 ,b1 a flap-door1 four inches wide1 which is raised for cleaning out the floor2 under this door is a space of one inch1 for passing out the urine of the rabbits4 ,c1 are buttons for fastening the doors4 ,d1 the backs of the bedrooms1 without any passage out on back side4 ,this matter of the rabbitry1 and its various explanations1 may be considered by the plain1 matter-of-fact man1 as below the dignity of people pursuing the useful and money-making business of life4 ,very possible4 ,but many boys--for whose benefit they are chiefly introduced--and men1 even1 may do worse than to spend their time in such apparent trifles4 ,it is better than going to a horse-race4 ,it is better even than going to a trotting match1 where fast men1 as well as fast horses congregate4 ,it is better1 too1 than a thousand other places where boys want to go1 when they have nothing to interest them at home4 ,one half of the farmer's boys1 who1 discontented at home1 leave it for something more congenial to their feelings and tastes1 do so simply because of the excessive dullness1 and want of interest in objects to attract them there1 and keep them contented4 ,boys1 in ,america at least1 are apt to be smart4 ,so their parents think1 at all events2 and too smart they prove1 to stay at home1 and follow the beaten track of their fathers1 as their continual migration from the paternal roof too plainly testifies4 ,this1 in many cases1 is the fault of the parents themselves1 because they neglect those little objects of interest to which the minds and tastes of their sons are inclined1 and for want of which they imagine more attractive objects abroad1 although in the search they often fail in finding them4 ,we are a progressive people4 ,our children are not always content to be what their fathers are2 and parents must yield a little to the spirit of the age in which they live4 ,and boys pay too1 as they go along1 if properly treated4 ,they should be made companions1 not servants4 ,many a joyous1 hearty spirit1 who1 when properly encouraged1 comes out a whole man at one-and-twenty1 if kept in curb1 and harnessed down by a hard parent1 leaves the homestead1 with a curse and a kick1 determined1 whether in weal or in woe1 never to return4 ,under a different course of treatment1 he would have fixed his home either at his birthplace1 or in its immediate vicinity1 and in a life of frugality1 usefulness1 and comparative ease1 blessed his parents1 his neighborhood1 and possibly the world1 with a useful example--all1 perhaps1 grown out of his youthful indulgence in the possession of a rabbit-warren1 or some like trifling matter4 ,this may appear to be small morals1 as well as small business4 ,we admit it4 ,but those who have been well1 and indulgently1 as well as methodically trained1 may look back and see the influence which all such little things had upon their early thoughts and inclinations2 and thus realize the importance of providing for the amusements and pleasures of children in their early years4 ,the dovecote1 the rabbitry1 the poultry-yard1 the sheep-fold1 the calf-pen1 the piggery1 the young colt of a favorite mare1 the yoke of yearling steers1 or a fruit tree which they have planted1 and nursed1 and called it1 or the fruit it bears1 their own1--anything1 in fact1 which they can call theirs--are so many objects to bind boys to their homes1 and hallow it with a thousand nameless blessings and associations1 known only to those who have been its recipients4 ,heaven's blessings be on the family homestead6 ,be it ever so humble1 there's no place like home6 sung the imaginary maid of ,milan1 the beautiful creation of ,john ,howard ,payne1 when returning from the glare and pomp of the world1 to her native cottage in the mountains of ,switzerland4 ,and1 although all out of date1 and conventionally vulgar this sentiment may be now considered1 such is1 or should be the subdued1 unsophisticated feeling of all natives of the farm house1 and the country cottage4 ,we may leave the quiet roof of our childhood2 we may mix in the bustling contentions of the open world2 we may gain its treasures2 we may enjoy its greatness1 its honors1 and its applause2 but there are times when they will all fade into nothing1 in comparison with the peace1 and quietude1 and tranquil happiness of a few acres of land1 a comfortable roof1 and contentment therewith6 ,,dairy ,,buildings4 ,wherever the dairy is made an important branch of farm production1 buildings for its distinct accommodation are indispensable4 ,the dairy is as much a manufactory as a cotton mill1 and requires as much conveniences in its own peculiar line4 ,we therefore set apart a building1 on purpose for its objects2 and either for cheese1 or butter1 separate conveniences are alike required4 ,we commence with the ,illustration3 ,,cheese ,,dairy ,,house4 ,,cheese ,,dairy ,,house4 ,this building is one and a half stories high1 with a broad1 spreading roof of #de;deg pitch2 the ground plan is #aj feet between joists1 and the posts #af feet high4 ,an ice-house1 made on the plan already described1 is at one end1 and a wood-shed at the opposite end1 of the same size4 ,this building is supposed to be erected near the milking sheds of the farm1 and in contiguity to the feeding troughs of the cows1 or the piggery1 and adapted to the convenience of feeding the whey to whichever of these animals the dairyman may select1 as both1 or either are required to consume it2 and to which it may be conveyed in spouts from the dairy-room4 ,,interior ,,arrangement4 ,the front door is protected by a light porch1 7a17 entering by a door1 7b17 the main dairy room4 ,the cheese presses1 7c1 c17 occupy the left end of the room1 between which a passage leads through a door1 7l17 into the wood-shed1 7h17 open on all sides1 with its roof resting on four posts set in the ground4 ,the large cheese-table1 7d17 stands on the opposite end1 and is #c feet wide4 ,in the center of the room is a chimney1 7e17 with a whey and water boiler1 and vats on each side4 ,a flight of stairs1 7f17 leading into the storage room above1 is in the rear4 ,a door1 7b17 on the extreme right1 leads into the ice-house1 7g47 ,there are four windows to the room--two on each side1 front and rear4 ,in the loft are placed the shelves for storing the cheese1 as soon as sufficiently prepared on the temporary table below4 ,this loft is thoroughly ventilated by windows1 and the heat of the sun upon it ripens the cheese rapidly for market4 ,a trapdoor1 through the floors1 over which is hung a tackle1 admits the cheese from below1 or passes it down1 when prepared for market4 ,the cheese house should1 if possible1 be placed on a sloping bank1 when it is designed to feed the whey to pigs2 and even when it is fed to cows1 it is more convenient to pass it to them on a lower level1 than to carry it out in buckets4 ,it may1 however1 if on level ground1 be discharged into vats1 in a cellar below1 and pumped out as wanted4 ,a cellar is convenient--indeed1 almost indispensable--under the cheese dairy2 and water should be so near as to be easily pumped1 or drawn1 into the vats and kettles used in running up the curd1 or for washing the utensils used in the work4 ,when the milk is kept over night1 for the next morning's curd1 temporary tables may be placed near the ice-room1 to hold the pans or tubs in which it may be set1 and the ice used to temper the milk to the proper degree for raising the cream4 ,if the dairy be of such extent as to require larger accommodation than the plan here suggested1 a room or two may be partitioned off from the main milk and pressing-room1 for washing the vessels and other articles employed1 and for setting the milk4 ,every facility should be made for neatness in all the operations connected with the work4 ,different accommodations are required1 for making the different kinds of cheese which our varied markets demand1 and in the fitting up of the dairy-house1 no positive plan of arrangement can be laid down1 suited alike to all the work which may be demanded4 ,the dairyman1 therefore1 will best arrange all these for the particular convenience which he requires4 ,the main plan1 and style of building however1 we think will be generally approved1 as being in an agreeable architectural style1 and of convenient construction and shape for the objects intended4 ,,the ,,butter ,,dairy4 ,this1 if pursued on the same farm with the cheese dairy1 and at different seasons of the year1 may be carried on in the lower parts of the same building4 ,but as it is usually a distinct branch of business1 when prosecuted as the chief object on a farm1 it should have accommodations of its own kind1 which should be fitted up specially for that purpose4 ,we cannot1 perhaps1 suggest a better model of a building for the butter dairy1 than the one just submitted for the cheese-house1 only that there is no necessity for the upper story2 and the posts of the main building should not stand more than nine feet above the sills4 ,a good1 walled cellar1 well lighted1 as a room for setting the milk1 is indispensable1 with a broad1 open flight of steps1 from the main floor above1 into it4 ,here1 too1 should stand the stone slabs1 where the butter is worked1 and the churns1 to be driven by hand1 or water1 or animal power1 as the two latter may be provided1 and introduced into the building by belt1 shaft1 or crank4 ,if running water can be brought on to the milk-shelves1 from a higher level1 which1 for this purpose1 should have curbs two or three inches high on their sides1 it can flow in a constant gentle current over them1 among the pans1 from a receiving vat1 in which ice is deposited1 to keep the milk at the proper temperature--about #ee;deg ,fahrenheit--for raising the cream2 and if the quantity of milk be large1 the shelves can be so arranged1 by placing each tier of shelf lower than the last1 like steps1 that the water may pass among them all before it escapes from the room4 ,such a mode of applying water and ice1 renders the entire process of cream-rising almost certain in all weathers1 and is highly approved wherever it has been practiced4 ,the low temperature of the room1 by the aid of water and ice1 is also beneficial to the butter packed in kegs1 keeping it cool and sweet--as much like a spring-house as possible1 in its operation4 ,the washing and drying of pans1 buckets1 churns1 and the heating of water1 should all be done in the room above1 where the necessary kettles are set1 and kept from contact with the cool atmosphere of the lower room4 ,the latter apartment should have a well-laid stone or brick floor1 filled and covered with a strong cement of water lime1 and sloping gradually to the outer side1 where all the water may pass off by a drain1 and everything kept sweet and clean4 ,the buttermilk may1 as in the case of the whey1 in the cheese dairy1 be passed off in spouts to the pigsty1 which should not be far distant4 ,as all this process of arrangement1 however1 must conform somewhat to the shape of the ground1 the locality1 and the facilities at hand where it may be constructed2 it is hardly possible to give any one system of detail which is applicable to an uniform mode of structure2 and much will be left to the demands and the skill of the dairyman himself1 in the plan he may finally adopt4 ,,the ,,water ,,ram4 ,as water1 and that of a good quality1 and in abundant quantity1 is indispensable to the various demands of the farm1 it is worth some pains to provide it in the most economical manner1 and at the most convenient points for use4 ,in level grounds1 wells are generally dug1 and the water drawn up by buckets or pumps4 ,in a hilly country1 springs1 and streams from higher grounds1 may be brought in by the aid of pipes1 the water flowing naturally1 under its own head1 wherever it may be wanted1 away from its natural stream4 ,illustration3 ,,water ,,ram4 ,but1 of all contrivances to elevate water from a lower fountain1 or current1 to a higher level1 by its own action1 the ,water ,ram is the most complete in its operation1 and perfect in its construction1 of anything within our knowledge4 ,and as it may not be generally known to our readers1 at our request1 ,messrs4 ,a4 ,b4 ,,allen ,,co41 of ,new ,york--who keep them of all sizes for sale1 at their agricultural warehouse1 ,no's4 #ahi and #aia1 ,water-street--have kindly furnished us with the following description of the machine1 given by ,w4 ,b4 ,douglass1 of ,middletown1 ,connecticut1 manufacturers of the article3 ,h1 spring or brook4 ,c1 drive1 or supply-pipe1 from brook to ram4 ,g1 discharge pipe1 conveying water to house or other point required for use4 ,b1 ,d1 ,a1 ,e1 ,i1 the ,ram4 ,j1 the plank or other foundation to which the machine is secured for use4 ,the various uses of the ram are at once obvious1 viz41 for the purposes of irrigating lands1 and supplying dwellings1 barnyards1 gardens1 factories1 villages1 engines1 railroad stations1 c41 with running water4 ,the simplicity of the operation of this machine1 together with its effectiveness1 and very apparent durability1 renders it decidedly the most important and valuable apparatus yet developed in hydraulics1 for forcing a portion of a running stream of water to any elevation1 proportionate to the fall obtained4 ,it is perfectly applicable where no more than eighteen inches fall can be had2 yet1 the greater the fall applied1 the more powerful the operation of the machine1 and the higher the water may be conveyed4 ,the relative proportions between the water raised1 and wasted1 is dependent entirely upon the relative height of the spring or source of supply above the ram1 and the elevation to which it is required to be raised4 ,the quantity raised varying in proportion to the height to which it is conveyed1 with a given fall2 also1 the distance which the water has to be conveyed1 and consequent length of pipe1 has some bearing on the quantity of water raised and discharged by the ram2 as1 the longer the pipe through which the water has to be forced by the machine1 the greater the friction to be overcome1 and the more the power consumed in the operation2 yet1 it is common to apply the ram for conveying the water distances of one and two hundred rods1 and up elevations of one and two hundred feet4 ,ten feet fall from the spring1 or brook1 to the ram1 is abundantly sufficient for forcing up the water to any elevation under say one hundred and fifty feet in height1 above the level of the point where the ram is located2 and the same ten feet fall will raise the water to a much higher point than above last named1 although in a diminished quantity1 in proportion as the height is increased4 ,when a sufficient quantity of water is raised with a given fall1 it is not advisable to increase said fall1 as in so doing the force with which the ram works is increased1 and the amount of labor which it has to perform greatly augmented1 the wear and tear of the machine proportionably increased1 and the durability of the same lessened2 so that economy1 in the expense of keeping the ram in repair1 would dictate that no greater fall should be applied1 for propelling the ram1 than is sufficient to raise a requisite supply of water to the place of use4 ,to enable any person to make the calculation1 as to what fall would be sufficient to apply to the ram1 to raise a sufficient supply of water to his premises1 we would say1 that in conveying it any ordinary distance1 of say fifty or sixty rods1 it may be safely calculated that about one-seventh part of the water can be raised and discharged at an elevation above the ram five times as high as the fall which is applied to the ram1 or one-fourteenth part can be raised and discharged1 say ten times as high as the fall applied2 and so in that proportion1 as the fall or rise is varied4 ,thus1 if the ram be placed under a head or fall of five feet1 of every seven gallons drawn from the spring1 one may be raised twenty-five feet1 or half a gallon fifty feet4 ,or with ten feet fall applied to the machine1 of every fourteen gallons drawn from the spring1 one gallon may be raised to the height of one hundred feet above the machine2 and so in like proportion1 as the fall or rise is increased or diminished4 ,it is presumed that the above illustrations of what the machine will do under certain heads and rise1 will be sufficient for all practical purposes1 to enable purchasers of the article to determine1 with a sufficient degree of nicety1 as to the head or fall to apply to the ram for a given rise and distance1 which they may wish to overcome in raising water from springs or brooks to their premises1 or other places where water is required4 ,yet1 we have the pleasure of copying the following article1 which we find in the ',american ,agriculturist1' a very valuable journal published by ,c4 ,m4 ,saxton1 #aeb ,fulton-street1 ,new ,york1 which may serve to corroborate our statements as to what our ram will accomplish under given circumstances3 ',the following is a correct statement of a water ram ,i have had in successful operation for the last six months3 '#a4 ,the fall from the surface of the water in the spring is four feet4 #b4 ,the quantity of water delivered per ten minutes1 at my house1 is three and a quarter gallons1 and that discharged at the ram twenty-five gallons4 ,thus1 nearly one-seventh part of the water is saved4 #c4 ,the perpendicular height of the place of delivery above the ram is nineteen feet--say fifteen feet above the surface of the spring4 #d4 ,the length of the pipe leading from the ram to the house is one hundred and ninety feet4 #e4 ,the pipe leading from the ram to the house has three right angles1 rounded by curves4 #f4 ,the ram is of ,douglass' make1 of a small size4 #g4 ,the length of the drive or supply-pipe is sixty feet4 ,its inner diameter one inch4 #h4 ,the depth of water in the spring1 over the drive pipe1 is six inches4 #i4 ,the inner diameter of the pipe1 conducting the water from the ram to the house1 is three-eighths of an inch4 ',i consider it very essential that the drive or supply-pipe should be laid as straight as possible1 as in the motion of the water in this pipe consists the power of the ram4 ,v4 ,h4 ,,hallock4 ,north-,east ,center1 ,n4,y41 ,april #b;d1 #ahdi4' ,we have seen several of these rams at work2 and in any place where the required amount of fall can be had1 with sufficient water to supply the demand1 we are entirely satisfied that no plan so cheap and efficient can be adopted1 by which to throw it to a higher level1 and at a distance from the point of its flow4 ,we heartily commend it to all who need a thing of the kind1 and have at hand the facilities in the way of a stream for its use4 ,it is hardly worth while to add1 that by the aid of the ram1 water can be thrown into every room in the dwelling house1 as well as into the various buildings1 and yards1 and fields of the farm1 wherever it may be required4 ,,rat-,,proof ,,granary4 ,this plan1 and description1 we take from an agricultural periodical published in ,new ,york--,the ,plow4 ,we can recommend no plan of a better kind for the objects required4 ,it is an old-fashioned structure1 which many of our readers will recognize--only1 that it is improved in some of its details4 ,illustration3 ,,granary ,the illustration above needs but little description4 ,the posts should be stone1 if procurable1 one foot square1 and four feet long1 set one-third in the ground1 and capped with smooth flat stones1 four to six inches thick1 and two feet1 at least1 across4 ,if wooden posts are used1 make them sixteen inches square1 and set them in a hole previously filled1 six inches deep1 with charcoal1 or rubble stone and lime grouting1 and fill around the posts with the same4 ,four inches from the top1 nail on a flange of tin or sheet iron1 six inches wide1 the projecting edge of which may be serrated1 as a further preventive against the depredating rascals creeping around4 ,the steps are hinged to the door-sill1 and should have a cord and weight attached to the door1 so that whenever it is shut1 the steps should be up also2 this would prevent the possibility of carelessness in leaving them down for the rats to walk up4 ,the sides should be made of slats1 with large cracks between1 and the floor under the corn-crib1 with numerous open joints2 no matter if shattered corn falls through1 let the pigs and chickens have it2 the circulation of the air through the pile of corn1 will more than pay for all you will lose through the floor4 ,if you intend to have sweet grain1 be sure to have a ventilator in the roof1 and you may see by the vane on the top of it1 how the wind will always blow favorably for you4 ,,improved ,,domestic ,,animals4 ,having completed the series of subjects which we had designed for this work1 we are hardly content to send it out to the public1 without inviting the attention of our farmers1 and others who dwell in the country and occupy land1 to the importance of surrounding themselves with the best breeds of domestic animals1 as an item of increased profit in their farm management1 and as a subject of interest and satisfaction to themselves in the embellishment of their grounds4 ,we have addressed ourselves through these pages to the good sense of men who1 in their general character and pursuits1 comprise the most stable class of our population4 ,we have endeavored to impress upon them the importance of providing all the conveniences and comforts to themselves1 in their dwellings1 as well as the due provision for their animals and crops1 in the rougher farm buildings1 which their circumstances will admit2 and we trust they have been shown that it is proper economy so to do4 ,we have1 in addition to these1 somewhat dilated upon objects of embellishment1 in the way of grounds to surround them1 and trees to beautify them1 which will in no way interfere with a just economy1 and add greatly to the pleasure and interest of their occupation4 ,we now want them to introduce into those grounds such domestic animals as shall add to their ornament1 and be far more profitable to themselves1 than the inferior things which are called the common1 or native stock of the country4 ,without this last lesson1 half our object would be lost4 ,of what avail will be the best provision for the conveniences of a family1 and the labors of the farm1 if the farm be badly cultivated1 and a worthless or inferior stock be kept upon it8 ,the work is but half done at best2 and the inferiority of the last will only become more conspicuous and contemptible1 in contrast with the superior condition of the first4 ,it is not intended to go into an examination of the farm-stock of our country at large1 nor into their modes of treatment2 but1 to recommend such varieties of animals as are profitable in their breeding and keeping1 both to the professional farmer in his vocation1 and to such as1 beyond this1 find them an object of convenience1 or of pleasure4 ,we1 in ,america1 are comparatively a young people4 ,yet1 we have surmounted necessity4 ,we have arrived at the period when we enjoy the fruits of competence--some of us1 the luxuries of wealth4 ,a taste for superior domestic animals has been increasing1 and spreading over the ,united ,states for many years past2 so that now1 a portion of our farmers and country people understand somewhat of the subject4 ,it has been thoroughly demonstrated1 that good farm stock is better1 and more profitable than poor stock4 ,still1 a taste for good stock1 and the advantages of keeping them1 over the common stock of the country1 is not generally understood2 and that taste has to be cultivated4 ,it is not altogether a thing of nature1 any more than other faculties which require the aid of education to develope4 ,we have known many people who had a fine perception in many things3 an eye for a fine house1 pleasant grounds1 beautiful trees1 and all the surroundings which such a place might command2 and when these were complete1 would place about it the veriest brutes1 in the way of domestic animals1 imaginable4 ,the resident of the city1 who lives at his country-house in summer1 and selects a picture of mean or inferior quality1 to hang up in his house by way of ornament1 would be laughed at by his friends2 yet he may drive into his grounds the meanest possible creature1 in the shape of a cow1 a pig1 or a sheep1 and it is all very well--for neither he nor they know any better2 yet1 the one is quite as much out of place as the other4 ,the man1 too1 who1 in good circumstances1 will keep and drive a miserable horse1 is the ridicule of his neighbors1 because everybody knows what a good horse is1 and that he should be well kept4 ,yet1 the other stock on his farm may be the meanest trash in existence1 and it creates no remark4 ,on the contrary1 one who at any extra cost has supplied himself with stock of the choicer kinds1 let their superiority be ever so apparent1 has often been the subject of ribaldry1 by his unthinking associates4 ,and such1 we are sorry to say1 is still the case in too many sections of our country4 ,but1 on the whole1 both our public spirit1 and our intelligence1 is increasing1 in such things4 ,now1 we hold it to be a practical fact1 that no farm1 or country place1 can be complete in its appointments1 without good stock upon it2 and it is useless for any one to suppose that his farm1 or his place1 is finished1 without it4 ,the man who has a fine lawn1 of any extent1 about his house1 or a park adjoining1 should have something to graze it--for he cannot afford to let it lie idle2 nor is it worth while1 even if he can afford it1 to be mowing the grass in it every fortnight during the summer1 to make it sightly4 ,besides this1 grass will grow under the trees1 and that too thin1 and short1 for cutting4 ,this ground must1 of course1 be pastured4 ,now1 will he go and get a parcel of mean scrubs of cattle1 or sheep1 to graze it1 surrounding his very door1 and disgracing him by their vulgar1 plebeian looks1 and yielding him no return1 in either milk1 beef1 mutton1 or wool8 ,of course not1 if he be a wise1 or a provident man1 or one who has any true taste in such matters4 ,he will rather go and obtain the best stock he can get1 of breeds suited to the climate1 and soil1 which will give him a profitable return1 either in milk1 or flesh1 or their increase1 for his outlay2 and which will also embellish his grounds1 and create an interest in his family for their care1 and arrest the attention of those who visit him1 or pass by his grounds4 ,of the proper selection of this branch of his stock1 we shall now discourse4 ,illustration ,in cattle1 if your grounds be rich1 and your grass abundant1 the short-horns are the stock for them4 ,they are the head and front1 in appearance1 size1 and combination of good qualities--the very aristocracy of all neat cattle4 ,a well-bred1 and well developed short-horn cow1 full in the qualities which belong to her character1 is the very perfection of her kind4 ,her large1 square form2 fine orange1 russet1 or nut-colored muzzle2 bright1 prominent1 yet mild1 expressive eye2 small1 light horn2 thin ears2 clean neck2 projecting brisket2 deep1 and broad chest2 level back1 and loin2 broad hips2 large1 and well-spread udder1 with its silky covering of hair1 and clean1 taper1 wide-standing teats1 giving twenty to thirty quarts of rich milk in a day2 deep thigh1 and twist2 light tail2 small1 short legs2 and1 added to this1 her brilliant and ever-varying colors of all1 and every-intermingling shades of red1 and white1 or either of them alone2 such1 singly1 or in groups1 standing quietly under the shade of trees1 grazing in the open field1 or quietly resting upon the grass1 are the very perfection of a cattle picture1 and give a grace and beauty to the grounds which no living thing can equal4 ,here stands a short-horn cow1 in all the majesty of her style and character6 ,we add1 also1 a short-horn bull1 which exhibits1 in a high degree1 the vigor1 stamina1 and excellence of his kind4 ,nor1 in this laudation of the short-horns1 are we at all mistaken4 ,go into the luxuriant blue-grass pastures of ,kentucky2 the rich1 and wide-spread grazing regions of central1 and lower ,ohio2 the prairies of ,indiana1 and ,illinois1 just now beginning to receive them2 the sweet1 and succulent pastures of central and western ,new ,york1 or on the ,hudson river2 and now and then1 a finely-cultivated farm in other sections of the ,united ,states1 where their worth has become established2 and they present pictures of thrift1 of excellence1 of beauty1 and of profit1 that no other neat cattle can pretend to equal4 ,as a family cow1 nothing can excel the short-horn1 in the abundance and richness of her milk1 and in the profit she will yield to her owner2 and1 on every place where she can be supplied with abundance of food1 she stands without a rival4 ,from the short-horns1 spring those magnificent fat oxen and steers1 which attract so much admiration1 and carry off the prizes1 at our great cattle shows4 ,thousands of them1 of less or higher grade in blood1 are fed every year1 in the ,scioto1 the ,miami1 and the other great feeding valleys of the west1 and in the fertile corn regions of ,kentucky1 and taken to the ,new ,york and ,philadelphia markets4 ,as a profitable beast to the grazier1 and the feeder1 nothing can equal them in early maturity and excellence4 ,for this purpose1 the short-horns are steadily working their way all over the vast cattle-breeding regions of the west2 and1 for the richness and abundance of her milk1 the cow is eagerly introduced into the dairy1 and milk-producing sections of the other states1 where she will finally take rank1 and maintain her superiority over all others1 on rich and productive soils4 ,illustration3 ,,devon ,,cow4 ,,devon ,,bull4 ,on lighter soils1 with shorter pastures2 or on hilly and stony grounds1 another race of cattle may be kept1 better adapted to such localities1 than those just described4 ,they are the ,devons--also an ,english breed1 and claimed there as an aboriginal race in ,england2 and if any variety of cattle1 exhibiting the blood-like beauty1 and fineness of limb1 the deep1 uniformity of color1 and the gazelle-like brilliancy of their eye1 can claim a remote ancestry1 and a pure descent1 the ,devons can make such claim1 beyond almost any other4 ,they were introduced--save now and then an isolated animal at an earlier day--into the ,united ,states some thirty-two or three years ago1 about the same time with the short-horns2 and like them1 have been added to1 and improved by frequent importations since2 until now1 probably our country will show some specimens equal in quality to their high general character in the land of their nativity4 ,unlike the short-horn1 the ,devon is a much lighter animal1 with a like fine expression of countenance2 an elevated horn2 more agile in form2 yet finer in limb1 and bone2 a deep mahogany-red in color2 and of a grace1 and beauty in figure excelled by no other breed whatever4 ,the ,devon cow is usually a good milker1 for her size2 of quiet temper2 docile in her habits2 a quick feeder2 and a most satisfactory animal in all particulars4 ,from the ,devons1 spring those beautifully matched red working-oxen1 so much admired in our eastern states2 the superiors to which1 in kindness1 docility1 endurance1 quickness1 and honesty of labor1 no country can produce4 ,in the quality of their beef1 they are unrivaled by any breed of cattle in the ,united ,states2 but in their early maturity for that purpose1 are not equal to the short-horns4 ,we here present a cut of a ,devon cow2 but with the remark1 that she presents a deficiency of bag1 and stands higher on the leg1 than she ought to do2 and her leanness in flesh gives her a less graceful appearance than is her wont1 when in good condition4 ,we present1 also1 the cut of a ,devon bull4 ,this figure does not do him full justice1 the head being drawn in1 to give the cut room on the page4 ,several beautiful herds of ,devons are to be found in ,new ,york1 in ,maryland1 in ,connecticut1 and in ,massachusetts2 and some few in other states1 where they can be obtained by those who wish to purchase4 ,and it is a gratifying incident1 to learn that both the breeds we have named are increasing in demand1 which has created a corresponding spirit in those who breed them1 to bestow their best attention in perfecting their good qualities4 ,another branch of domestic stock should also excite the attention of those who wish to embellish their grounds1 as well as to improve the quality of their mutton--obtaining1 withal1 a fleece of valuable wool4 ,these are the ,southdown1 and the ,cotswold1 ,leicester1 or other improved breeds of long-wooled sheep4 ,there is no more peaceful1 or beautiful small animal to be seen1 in an open park1 or pleasure ground1 or in the paddock of a farm1 than these2 and as they have been of late much sought after1 they will be briefly noticed4 ,illustration3 ,,southdown ,,ram4 ,,southdown ,,ewe4 ,illustration3 ,,long-,,wooled ,,ram4 ,,long-,,wooled ,,ewe4 ,the ,southdown1 a cut of which we present1 is a fine1 compact1 and solid sheep1 with dark face and legs2 quiet in its habits1 mild in disposition1 of a medium quality1 and medium weight of fleece2 and yielding a kind of mutton unsurpassed in flavor and delicacy--equal1 in the estimation of many1 to the finest venison4 ,the carcass of a ,southdown wether1 when well fatted1 is large1 weighing1 at two to three years old1 a hundred to a hundred and twenty pounds4 ,the ewe is a prolific breeder1 and a good nurse4 ,they are exceedingly hardy1 and will thrive equally well in all climates1 and on all our soils1 where they can live4 ,there is no other variety of sheep which has been bred to that high degree of perfection1 in ,england4 ,the great ,southdown breeder1 ,mr4 ,webb1 of ,batraham1 has often received as high as fifty1 to one hundred guineas1 in a season1 for the use of a single ram4 ,such prices show the estimation in which the best ,southdowns are held there1 as well as their great popularity among the ,english farmers4 ,they are extensively kept in the parks1 and pleasure grounds of the wealthy people1 where things of profit are usually connected with those devoted to luxury4 ,for this cut of the ,southdown ewe1 we are indebted to the kindness of ,luther ,tucker1 ,esq41 of the ,albany ,cultivator4 ,the ,cotswold1 ,new ,oxford1 and ,leicester sheep1 of the long-wooled variety1 are also highly esteemed1 in the same capacity as the ,southdowns4 ,they are large2 not so compactly built as the ,southdowns2 producing a heavy fleece of long wool1 mostly used for combing1 and making into worsted stuffs4 ,they are scarcely so hardy1 either1 as the ,southdowns2 nor are they so prolific4 ,still1 they have many excellent qualities2 and although their mutton has not the fine grain1 nor delicacy1 of the other1 it is of enormous weight1 when well fattened1 and a most profitable carcass4 ,it has sometimes reached a weight of two hundred pounds1 when dressed4 ,they are gentle1 and quiet in their habits2 white in the face and legs2 and show a fine and stately contrast to the ,southdowns1 in their increased size1 and breadth of figure4 ,they require1 also1 a somewhat richer pasture2 but will thrive on any good soil1 yielding sweet grasses4 ,for the cut of the ,cotswold ewe1 we are also indebted to ,mr4 ,tucker1 of ,the ,cultivator4 ,to show the contrast between the common native sheep1 and the improved breeds1 of which we have spoken1 a true portrait of the former is inserted1 which will be readily recognized as the creature which embellishes1 in so high a degree1 many of the wild nooks1 and rugged farms of the country6 ,illustration3 ,a ,,common ,,sheep4 ,that the keeping of choice breeds of animals1 and the cultivation of a high taste for them1 is no vulgar matter1 with even the most exalted intellects1 and of men occupying the most honorable stations in the state1 and in society2 and that they concern the retired gentleman1 as well as the practical farmer1 it is only necessary to refer to the many prominent examples in ,great ,britain1 and our own country1 within the last fifty years4 ,the most distinguished noblemen of ,england1 and ,scotland1 have long bred the finest of cattle1 and embellished their home parks with them4 ,the late ,earl ,spencer1 one of the great patrons of agricultural improvement in ,england1 at his death owned a herd of two hundred of the highest bred short-horns1 which he kept on his home farm1 at ,wiseton4 ,the ,dukes of ,bedford1 for the last century and a half1 have made extraordinary exertions to improve their several breeds of cattle4 ,the late ,earl of ,leicester1 better known1 perhaps1 as ,mr4 ,coke1 of ,holkham1 and the most celebrated farmer of his time1 has been long identified with his large and select herds of ,devons1 and his flocks of ,southdowns4 ,the ,duke of ,richmond has his great park at ,goodwood stocked with the finest ,southdowns1 ,short-horns1 and ,devons4 ,prince ,albert1 even1 has caught the infection of such liberal and useful example1 and the royal park at ,windsor is tenanted with the finest farm stock1 of many kinds2 and he is a constant competitor at the great ,smithfield cattle shows1 annually held in ,london4 ,besides these1 hundreds of the nobility1 and wealthy country gentlemen of ,great ,britain1 every year compete with the intelligent farmers1 in their exhibitions of cattle1 at the royal and provincial shows1 in ,england1 ,scotland1 and ,ireland4 ,in the ,united ,states1 ,washington was a great promoter of improvement in farm stock1 and introduced on to his broad estate1 at ,mount ,vernon1 many foreign animals1 which he had sent out to him at great expense2 and it was his pride to show his numerous and distinguished guests1 his horses1 cattle1 sheep1 and pigs4 ,henry ,clay1 of ,kentucky1 was among the first promoters of the improvement of domestic animals in the fertile region1 of which his own favorite ,ashland is the center2 and to his continued efforts in the breeding of the finest short-horns1 and mules1 is the state of ,kentucky greatly indebted for its reputation in these descriptions of stock4 ,daniel ,webster has introduced on to his estate1 at ,marshfield1 the finest cattle1 and sheep suited to its soil and climate1 and takes much pride in showing their good qualities4 ,indeed1 we have never heard either of these two last remarkable men more eloquent1 than when discoursing of their cattle1 and of their pleasure in ranging over their pastures1 and examining their herds and flocks4 ,they have both been importers of stock1 and liberal in their dissemination among their agricultural friends and neighbors4 ,public-spirited1 patriotic men1 in almost every one of our states1 have either imported from ,europe1 or drawn from a distance in their own country1 choice animals1 to stock their own estates1 and bred them for the improvement of their several neighborhoods4 ,merchants1 and generous men of other professions1 have shown great liberality1 and the finest taste1 in importing1 rearing1 and distributing over the country the best breeds of horses1 cattle1 sheep1 and pigs4 ,their own beautiful home grounds are embellished with them1 in a style that all the dumb statuary in existence can not equal in interest--models of grace1 and beauty1 and utility1 which are in vain sought among the sculpture1 or paintings of ancient time4 ,and many a plain and unpretending farmer of our country1 emulating such laudable examples1 now shows in his luxuriant pastures1 and well-filled barns and stables1 the choicest specimens of imported stock2 and their prizes1 won at the cattle shows1 are the laudable pride of themselves1 and their families4 ,nor is this laudable taste1 confined to men alone4 ,females of the highest worth1 and domestic example1 both abroad and at home1 cultivate a love for such objects1 and take much interest in the welfare of their farm stock4 ,we were at the annual state cattle show1 in one of our large states1 but a short time since1 and in loitering about the cattle quarter of the grounds1 met a lady of our acquaintance1 with a party of her female friends1 on a tour of inspection among the beautiful short-horns1 and ,devons1 and the select varieties of sheep4 ,she was the daughter of a distinguished statesman1 who was also a large farmer1 and a patron of great liberality1 in the promotion of fine stock in his own state4 ,she was bred upon the farm1 and1 to rare accomplishments in education1 was possessed of a deep love for all rural objects2 and in the stock of the farm she took a peculiar interest4 ,her husband was an extensive farmer1 and a noted breeder of fine animals4 ,she had her own farm1 too1 and cattle upon it1 equally as choice as his1 in her own right2 and they were both competitors at the annual exhibitions4 ,introduced to her friends1 at her request1 we accompanied them in their round of inspection4 ,there were the beautiful cows1 and the younger cattle1 and the sheep--all noticed1 criticised1 and remarked upon2 and with a judgment1 too1 in their various properties1 which convinced us of her sound knowledge of their physiology1 and good qualities1 which she explained to her associates with all the familiarity that she would a tambouring frame1 or a piece of embroidery4 ,there was no squeamish fastidiousness2 no affectation of prudery1 in this2 but all natural as the pure flow of admiration in a well-bred lady could be4 ,at her most comfortable1 and hospitable residence1 afterward1 she showed us1 with pride1 the several cups1 and other articles of plate1 which her family had won as prizes1 at the agricultural exhibitions2 and which she intended to preserve1 as heir-looms to her children4 ,this is not a solitary example2 yet1 a too rare one1 among our fair countrywomen4 ,such a spirit is contagious1 and we witness with real satisfaction1 their growing taste in such laudable sources of enjoyment3 contrary to the parvenue affectation of a vast many otherwise sensible and accomplished females of our cities and towns--comprising even the wives and daughters of farmers1 too--who can saunter among the not over select1 and equivocal representations1 among the paintings and statuary of our public galleries2 and descant with entire freedom1 on the various attitudes1 and artistical merits of the works before them2 or gaze with apparent admiration upon the brazen pirouettes of a public dancing girl1 amid all the equivoque of a crowded theater2 and yet1 whose delicacy is shocked at the exhibitions of a cattle show6 ,such females as we have noticed1 can admire the living1 moving beauty of animal life1 with the natural and easy grace of purity itself1 and without the slightest suspicion of a stain of vulgarity4 ,from the bottom of our heart1 we trust that a reformation is at work among our ,american women1 in the promotion of a taste1 and not only a taste1 but a genuine love of things connected with country life4 ,it was not so1 with the mothers1 and the wives1 of the stern and earnest men1 who laid the foundations of their country's freedom and greatness4 ,they were women of soul1 character1 and stamina2 who grappled with the realities of life1 in their labors2 and enjoyed its pleasures with truth and honesty4 ,this over-nice1 mincing delicacy1 and sentimentality1 in which their grand-daughters indulge1 is but the off-throw of the boarding-school1 the novelist1 and the prude--mere leather and prunella4 ,such remarks may be thought to lie beyond the line of our immediate labor4 ,but in the discussion of the collateral subjects which have a bearing upon country life and residence1 we incline to make a clean breast of it1 and drop such incidental remark as may tend to promote the enjoyment1 as well as instruction1 of those whose sphere of action1 and whose choice in life is amid the pure atmosphere1 and the pure pleasures of the country4 ,,water-,,fowls4 ,if a stream flow through the grounds1 in the vicinity of the house2 or a pond1 or a small lake be near1 a few varieties of choice water-fowls may be kept1 adding much to the interest and amusement of the family4 ,many of the ,english nobility1 and gentry1 keep swans for such purpose4 ,they are esteemed a bird of much grace and beauty1 although silent1 and of shy1 unsocial habits1 and not prolific in the production of their young4 ,for such purposes as they are kept in ,england1 the great ,african goose1 resembling the ,china1 but nearly double in size1 is a preferable substitute in this country4 ,it is a more beautiful bird in its plumage2 equally graceful in the water2 social1 and gentle in its habits2 breeding with facility1 and agreeable in its voice1 particularly at a little distance4 ,the ,african goose will attain a weight of twenty to twenty-five pounds4 ,its body is finely formed1 heavily feathered1 and its flesh is of delicate flavor4 ,the top of the head1 and the back of its neck1 which is long1 high1 and beautifully arched1 is a dark brown2 its bill black1 with a high protuberance1 or knob1 at its junction with the head2 a dark hazel eye1 with a golden ring around it2 the under part of the head and neck1 a soft ash-color2 and a heavy dewlap at the throat4 ,its legs and feet are orange-colored2 and its belly white4 ,taken altogether1 a noble and majestic bird4 ,illustration3 ,,china ,,goose4 ,the small brown ,china goose is another variety which may be introduced4 ,she is nearly the color of the ,african1 but darker2 has the same black bill1 and high protuberance on it1 but without the dewlap under the throat2 and has black legs and feet4 ,she is only half the size of the other2 is a more prolific layer1--frequently laying three or four clutches of eggs in a year2 has the same character of voice2 an equally high1 arched neck1 and is quite as graceful in the water4 ,the neck of the goose in the cut should be one-third longer1 to be an accurate likeness4 ,the ,white ,china is another variety1 in size and shape like the last1 but perfectly white1 with an orange colored bill and legs4 ,indeed1 no swan can be more beautiful than this1 which is of the same pure1 clean plumage1 and1 in its habits and docility1 equally a favorite with the others we have described4 ,the ,bremen goose is still another variety1 of about the same size as the ,african1 but in shape and appearance1 not unlike the common goose1 except in color1 which is pure white4 ,young geese of this breed1 at nine months old1 frequently weigh twenty pounds1 alive4 ,we have had them of that weight1 and for the table1 none can be finer4 ,they are equally prolific as the common goose1 but1 as a thing of ornament1 are far behind the ,african and the ,china4 ,still1 they are a stately bird1 and an acquisition to any grounds where water-fowls are a subject of interest1 convenience1 or profit4 ,all these birds are more domestic1 if possible1 than the common goose1 and we have found them less troublesome1 not inclined to wander abroad1 and1 in all the qualities of such a bird1 far more agreeable4 ,we have long kept them1 and without their presence1 should consider our grounds as incomplete1 in one of the most attractive features of animated life4 ,it is too much a fault of our farming population1 that they do not pay sufficient attention to many little things which would render their homes more interesting1 both to themselves1 if they would only think so1 and to their families1 most certainly4 ,if parents have no taste for such objects as we have recommended1 or even others more common1 they should encourage their children in the love of them1 and furnish them for their amusement4 ,the very soul of a farmer's home is to cluster every thing about it which shall make it attractive1 and speak out the character of the country1 and of his occupation1 in its full extent4 ,herds and flocks upon the farm are a matter of course2 and so are the horses1 and the pigs4 ,but there are other things1 quite as indicative of household abundance1 and domestic enjoyment4 ,the pigeons1 and the poultry of all kinds1 and perhaps the rabbit warren1 which are chiefly in charge of the good housewife1 and her daughters1 and the younger boys1 show out the domestic feeling and benevolence of character in the family1 not to be mistaken4 ,it is a sign of enjoyment1 of domestic contentment1 and of mental cultivation1 even1 that will lead to something higher1 and more valuable in after life2 and it is in such light that it becomes an absolute duty of the farmer who seeks the improvement and education of his children1 to provide them with all these little objects1 to engage their leisure hours and promote their happiness4 ,how different a home like this from one--which is1 really1 not a home--where no attention is paid to such minor attractions2 where a few starveling things1 by way of geese1 perhaps1 picked half a dozen times a year1 to within an inch of their lives1 mope about the dirty premises1 making their nightly sittings in the door yard1 if the house has one2 a stray turkey1 or two1 running1 from fear of the untutored dogs1 into the nearest wood1 in the spring1 to make their rude nests1 and bring out half a clutch of young1 and creeping about the fields through the summer with a chicken or two1 which the foxes1 or other vermin1 have spared1 and then dogged down in the winter1 to provide a half got-up ,christmas-dinner2 and the hens about the open buildings all the year1 committing their nuisances in every possible way6 ,there need be no surer indication than this1 of the utter hopelessness of progress for good1 in such a family4 ,a ,,word ,,about ,,dogs4 ,we always loved a dog2 and it almost broke our little heart1 when but a trudging schoolboy1 in our first jacket-and-trowsers1 our kind mother made us take back the young puppy that had hardly got its eyes open1 which we one day brought home1 to be kept until it was fit to be taken from its natural nurse4 ,we are now among the boys1 ,john1 ,tom1 and ,harry2 and intend to give them the benefit of our own experience in this line1 as well as to say a few words to the elder brothers1--and fathers1 even1--if they do not turn up their noses in contempt of our instruction1 on a subject so much beneath their notice4 ,we say that we love dogs3 not all dogs1 however4 ,but we love some dogs--of the right breeds4 ,there is probably no other civilized country so dog-ridden as this1 both in ,mongrel1 puppy1 whelp1 and hound1 ,and curs of low degree4 ,goldsmith1 kind man that he was1 must have been a capital judge of dogs1 like many other poetical gentlemen4 ,still1 other men than poets are sometimes good judges1 and great lovers of dogs2 but the mass of people are quite as well satisfied with one kind of dog as with another1 so that it be a dog2 and they too often indulge in their companionship1 much to the annoyance of good neighborhood1 good morals1 and1 indeed1 of propriety1 thrift1 and common justice4 ,of all these we have nothing to say--here1 at least4 ,ours is a free country--for dogs1 if for nothing else4 ,nor shall we discuss the various qualities1 or the different breeds of dogs for sporting purposes4 ,we never go out shooting2 nor do we take a hunt--having no taste that way4 ,perhaps in this we are to be pitied2 but we are content as it is4 ,therefore we shall let the hounds1 and pointers1 and setters1 the springers1 and the land and the water spaniels1 all alone4 ,the mastiffs1 and the bull dogs1 too1 we shall leave to those who like them4 ,the poodle1 and the little lap-dog of other kinds1 also1 we shall turn over to the kindness of those who--we are sorry for them1 in having nothing better to interest themselves about--take a pleasure in keeping and tending them4 ,we want to mix in a little usefulness1 as well as amusement1 in the way of a dog2 and after a whole life1 thus far1 of dog companionship1 and the trial of pretty much every thing in the line of a dog--from the great ,newfoundland1 of a hundred pounds weight1 down to the squeaking little whiffet1 of six--we have1 for many years past1 settled down into the practical belief that the small ratting terrier is the only one1 except the shepherd dog1 we care to keep2 and of these1 chiefly1 we shall speak4 ,there are many varieties of the ,terrier4 ,some are large1 weighing forty or fifty pounds1 rough-haired1 and savage looking4 ,there is the bull-terrier1 of less size1 not a kindly1 well-disposed creature to strangers2 but irascibly inclined1 and unamiable in his deportment2 still useful as a watch-dog1 and a determined enemy to all vermin1 whatever4 ,then1 again1 are the small rat-terriers1 as they are termed1 weighing from a dozen to twenty pounds2 some with rough1 long1 wiry hair2 a fierce1 whiskered muzzle2 of prodigious strength for their size2 wonderful instinct and sagacity2 kind in temper2 and possessing valuable qualities1 bating a lack of beauty in appearance4 ,they are of all colors1 but are generally uniform in their color1 whatever it be4 ,another kind1 still1 is the smooth terrier1 of the same sizes as the last2 a very pretty dog indeed2 with a kinder disposition to mankind2 yet equally destructive to vermin1 and watchful to the premises which they inhabit1 or of whatever else is put under their charge4 ,the fidelity of the terrier to his master is wonderful2 equal1 if not superior to any other dog whatever4 ,in courage and perseverance1 in hardihood1 and feats of daring1 he has hardly an equal2 and in general usefulness1 no dog can compare with him4 ,illustration3 ,,the ,,smooth ,,terrier4 ,sir ,walter ,scott1 who was a great friend to dogs1 as well as a nice and critical judge of their qualities1 used to tell this story3--,when a young man1 first attending1 as an advocate1 the ,jedburgh assizes1 a notorious burglar engaged ,sir ,walter to defend him on his trial for housebreaking in the neighborhood4 ,the case was a hard one2 the proof direct and conclusive2 and no ingenuity of the defence could avoid the conviction of the culprit4 ,the matter was settled beyond redemption2 and before he left for his imprisonment1 or transportation1 the thief requested ,sir ,walter to come into his cell4 ,on meeting1 the fellow frankly told his counsel that he felt very grateful to him for his efforts to clear him2 that he had done the best he could2 but the proof was too palpable against him4 ,he would gladly reward ,sir ,walter for his services2 but he had no money1 and could only give him a piece of advice1 which might1 perhaps1 be serviceable hereafter4 ,sir ,walter heard him1 no doubt1 with some regret at losing his fee2 but concluding to hear what he had to say4 ,you are a housekeeper1 ,mr4 ,scott4 ,for security to your doors1 use nothing but a common lock--if rusty and old1 no matter2 they are quite as hard to pick as any others4 7,neither ,chubbs' nor ,hobbs' non-pickable locks were then invented47 ,then provide yourself with a small rat terrier1 and keep him in your house at night4 ,there is no safety in a mastiff1 or bull-dog1 or in a large dog of any breed4 ,they can always be appeased and quieted1 and burglars understand them2 but a terrier can neither be terrified nor silenced2 nor do we attempt to break in where one is known to be kept4 ,sir ,walter heeded the advice1 and1 in his housekeeping experience1 afterward1 confirmed the good qualities of the terrier1 as related to him by the burglar4 ,he also commemorated the conversation by the following not exceedingly poetical couplet3 ,a terrier dog and a rusty key1 ,was ,walter ,scott's first ,jedburgh fee4 ,the terrier has a perfect1 thorough1 unappeasable instinct for1 and hatred to all kinds of vermin4 ,he takes to rats and mice as naturally as a cat4 ,he will scent out their haunts and burrows4 ,he will lie for hours by their places of passage1 and point them with the sagacity of a pointer at a bird4 ,he is as quick as lightning1 in pouncing upon them1 when in sight1 and rarely misses them when he springs4 ,a single bite settles the matter2 and where there are several rats found together1 a dog will frequently dispatch half a dozen of them1 before they can get twenty feet from him4 ,a dog of our own has killed that number1 before they could get across the stable floor4 ,in the grain field1 with the harvesters1 a terrier will catch hundreds of field-mice in a day2 or1 in the hay field1 he is equally destructive4 ,with a woodchuck1 a raccoon1 or anything of their size--even a skunk1 which many dogs avoid--he engages1 with the same readiness that he will a rat4 ,the night is no bar to his vigils4 ,he has the sight of an owl1 in the dark4 ,minks1 and weasels1 are his aversion1 as much as other vermin4 ,he will follow the first into the water1 till he exhausts him with diving1 and overtakes him in swimming4 ,he is a hunter1 too4 ,he will tree a squirrel1 or a raccoon1 as readily as the best of sporting dogs4 ,he will catch1 and hold a pig1 or anything not too large or heavy for him4 ,he will lie down on your garment1 and watch it for hours2 or by anything else left in his charge4 ,he will play with the children1 and share their sports as joyfully as a dumb creature can do2 and nothing can be more affectionate1 kind1 and gentle among them4 ,he is cleanly1 honest1 and seldom addicted to tricks of any kind4 ,we prefer the high-bred1 smooth1 ,english terrier1 to any other variety4 ,they are rather more gentle in temper1 and very much handsomer in appearance1 than the rough-haired kind2 but perhaps no better in their useful qualities4 ,we have kept them for years2 we keep them now2 and no reasonable inducement would let us part with them4 ,a year or two ago1 having accidentally lost our farm terrier1 and nothing remaining on the place but our shepherd dog1 the buildings soon swarmed with rats4 ,they were in1 and about everything4 ,during the winter1 the men who tended the horses1 and cattle1 at their nightly rounds of inspection1 before going to bed1 would kill1 with their clubs1 three or four1 in the barns and stables1 every evening4 ,but still the rats increased1 and they became unendurable4 ,they got into the grain-mows1 where they burrowed1 and brought forth with a fecundity second only to the frogs of ,egypt4 ,they gnawed into the granaries4 ,they dug into the dairy4 ,they entered the meat barrels4 ,they carried off the eggs from the hen-nests4 ,they stole away1 and devoured1 the young ducks1 and chickens4 ,they literally came into the kneading troughs of the kitchen4 ,oh6 the rats were intolerable6 ,traps were no use4 ,arsenic was innocuous--they wouldn't touch it4 ,opportunity favored us1 and we got two high-bred1 smooth1 ,english terriers--a dog1 and a slut4 ,then commenced such a slaughter as we seldom see4 ,the rats had got bold4 ,the dogs caught them daily by dozens1 as they came out from their haunts1 fearless of evil1 as before4 ,as they grew more shy1 their holes were watched1 and every morning dead rats were found about the premises4 ,the dogs1 during the day1 pointed out their holes4 ,planks were removed1 nests were found1 and the rats1 young and old1 killed1 instanter4 ,hundreds on hundreds were slaughtered1 in the first few weeks2 and in a short time1 the place was mostly rid of them1 until enough only are left to keep the dogs in play1 and to show that in spite of all precaution1 they will harbor wherever there is a thing to eat1 and a possible place of covert for them to burrow4 ,to have the terrier in full perfection1 it is important that the breed be pure4 ,we are so prone to mix up everything we get1 in this country1 that it is sometimes difficult to get anything exactly as it should be2 but a little care will provide us1 in this particular4 ,he should be properly trained1 too1 when young4 ,that is1 to mind what is said to him4 ,his intelligence will be equal to all your wants in the dog-line2 but he should not be fooled with4 ,his instincts are sure4 ,and1 with a good education1 the terrier will prove all you need in a farm1 and a watch-dog4 ,we speak from long experience1 and observation4 ,illustration3 ,,the ,,shepherd ,,dog4 ,the shepherd dog is another useful--almost indispensable--creature1 on the sheep1 or dairy farm4 ,this cut is an accurate representation of the finest of the breed4 ,to the flock-master1 he saves a world of labor1 in driving and gathering the flocks together1 or from one field1 or place1 to another4 ,to the sheep-drover1 also1 he is worth a man1 at least2 and in many cases1 can do with a flock what a man can not do4 ,but for this labor1 he requires training1 and a strict1 thorough education1 by those who know how to do it4 ,he is a peaceable1 quiet creature2 good for little else than driving1 and on a stock farm will save fifty times his cost and keeping1 every year4 ,he is a reasonably good watch-dog1 also2 but he has neither the instinct1 nor sagacity of the terrier1 in that duty4 ,to keep him in his best estate1 for his own peculiar work1 he should not be troubled with other labors1 as it distracts his attention from his peculiar duties4 ,we had a remarkably good dog1 of this kind1 a few years since4 ,he was worth the services of a stout boy1 in bringing up the cattle1 and sheep1 until an idle boy or two1 in the neighborhood1 decoyed him out in cooning1 a few nights during one autumn--in which he proved a most capital hunter2 and after that1 he became worthless1 as a cattle dog4 ,he was always rummaging around among the trees1 barking at birds1 squirrels1 or any live thing that he could find2 and no man could coax him back to the dull routine of his duty4 ,a shepherd dog should never go a-hunting4 ,we would not be understood as condemning everything else1 excepting the dogs we have named1 for farm use4 ,the ,newfoundland1 and the mastiff1 are enormously large dogs1 and possessed of some noble qualities4 ,they have performed feats of sagacity and fidelity which have attracted universal admiration2 but1 three to one1 if you have them on your farm1 they will kill every sheep upon it2 and their watchfulness is no greater than that of the shepherd dog1 or the terrier4 ,we have spoken of such as we have entire confidence in1 and such as we consider the best for useful service4 ,there are some kinds of cur dog that are useful4 ,they are of no breed at all1 to be sure2 but have1 now and then1 good qualities2 and when nothing better can be got1 they will do for a make-shift4 ,but as a rule1 we would be equally particular in the breed of our dog1 as we would in the breed of our cattle1 or sheep4 ,there are altogether too many dogs kept1 in the country1 and most usually by a class of people who have no need of them1 and which prove only a nuisance to the neighborhood1 and a destruction to the goods of others4 ,thousands of useful sheep are annually destroyed by them2 and in some regions of the country1 they can not be kept1 by reason of their destruction by worthless dogs1 which are owned by the disorderly people about them4 ,in a western state1 some time ago1 in conversing with a large farmer1 who had a flock of perhaps a hundred sheep running in one of his pastures1 and who also kept a dozen hounds1 for hunting1 we asked him whether the dogs did not kill his sheep8 ,to be sure they do1 was his reply2 but the dogs are worth more than the sheep1 for they give us great sport in hunting deer1 and foxes2 and the sheep only give us a little mutton1 now and then1 and some wool for the women to make into stockings6 ,this is a mere matter of taste1 thought we1 and the conversation on that subject dropped4 ,yet1 this man had a thousand acres of the richest land in the world2 raised three or four hundred acres of corn1 a year2 fed off a hundred head of cattle1 annually2 and sold three hundred hogs every year1 for slaughtering6 99 99 99 99 99 ,books ,published by ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,fulton ,street1 ,new ,york1 ,suitable for ,school1 ,town1 ,agricultural1 and ,private ,libraries4 ,the ,american ,farm ,book2 ,the ,american ,farm ,book2 or1 a ,compend of ,american ,agriculture1 being a ,practical ,treatise on ,soils1 ,manures1 ,draining1 ,irrigation1 ,grasses1 ,grain1 ,roots1 ,fruits1 ,cotton1 ,tobacco1 ,sugar-,cane1 ,rice1 and every staple product of the ,united ,states2 with the best methods of ,planting1 ,cultivating1 and ,preparation for ,market4 ,illustrated by more than #ajj engravings4 ,by ,r4 ,l4 ,allen4 ,cloth1 #a2 mail edition1 paper1 #ge cts4 ,american ,poultry ,yard2 ,the ,american ,poultry ,yard2 comprising the ,origin1 ,history and ,description of the different ,breeds of ,domestic ,poultry1 with complete directions for their ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,fattening1 and ,preparation for ,market2 including specific directions for ,caponizing ,fowls1 and for the ,treatment of the ,principal ,diseases to which they are subject2 drawn from authentic sources and personal observation4 ,illustrated with numerous engravings4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,browne4 ,cloth or sheep1 #a2 mail edition1 paper1 #ge cts4 ,the ,diseases of ,domestic ,animals2 ,being a ,history and ,description of the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,cattle1 ,sheep1 ,swine1 ,poultry1 and ,farm ,dogs1 with ,directions for their ,management1 ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 and ,preparation for a profitable ,market2 also1 their ,diseases and ,remedies2 together with full ,directions for the ,management of the ,dairy1 and the ,comparative ,economy and ,advantages of ,working ,animals1 the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,oxen1 c4 ,by ,r4 ,l4 ,allen4 ,cloth or sheep1 #ge cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #ej cts4 ,american ,bee ,keeper's ,manual2 ,being a ,practical ,treatise on the ,history and ,domestic ,economy of the ,honey ,bee1 embracing a full illustration of the whole subject1 with the most approved methods of ,managing this ,insect1 through every branch of its ,culture1 the result of many years' experience4 ,illustrated with many engravings4 ,by ,t4 ,b4 ,miner4 ,cloth or sheep1 #a4 ,the ,modern ,stair ,builder's ,guide3 ,being a ,plain1 ,practical ,system of ,hand ,railing1 embracing all its necessary ,details1 and ,geometrically ,illustrated by ,twenty-two ,steel ,engravings2 together with the ,use of the most important ,principles of ,practical ,geometry4 ,by ,simon ,de ,graff1 ,architect4 #b4 ,prize ,essay on ,manures4 ,an ,essay on ,manures1 submitted to the ,trustees of the ,massachusetts ,society for ,promoting ,agriculture1 for their ,premium4 ,by ,samuel ,l4 ,dana4 ,paper4 #be cts4 ,american ,bird ,fancier4 ,considered with reference to the ,breeding1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 ,management1 c41 of ,cage and ,house ,birds4 ,illustrated with engravings4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,browne4 ,cloth1 #ej cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #be cts4 ,american ,architect4 ,the ,american ,architect2 comprising ,original ,designs of cheap ,country and ,village ,residences1 with ,details1 ,specifications1 ,plans1 and ,directions1 and an estimate of the ,cost of each ,design4 ,by ,john ,w4 ,ritch1 ,architect4 ,first and ,second ,series quarto1 bound in #b vols41 sheep1 #f4 ,mail edition1 paper1 #e4 ,domestic ,medicine4 ,gunn's ,domestic ,medicine2 or1 ,poor ,man's ,friend in the ,hours of ,affliction1 ,pain1 and ,sickness4 ,raymond's new revised edition1 improved and enlarged by ,john ,c4 ,gunn1 #hvo4 ,sheep4 #c4 ,saxton's ,american ,farmer's ,almanac for #aheb4 ,per #ajj1 #c4 ,family ,kitchen ,gardener4 ,containing ,plain and ,accurate ,descriptions of all the ,different ,species and ,varieties of ,culinary ,vegetables2 with their ,botanical1 ,english1 ,french1 and ,german names1 alphabetically arranged1 and the best mode of cultivating them in the garden1 or under glass2 also1 ,descriptions and ,character of the most ,select ,fruits1 their ,management ,propagation1 c4 ,by ,robert ,buist1 author of the ,american ,flower ,garden ,directory1 c4 cloth or sheep1 #ge cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #ej cts4 ,practical ,agriculture4 ,being a ,treatise on the ,general ,relations which ,science bears to ,agriculture4 ,delivered before the ,new ,york ,state ,agricultural ,society1 by ,james ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,f4,r4,s4,s4,s4 and ,e41 ,professor of ,agricultural ,chemistry in ,durham ,university1 and author of ,lectures on ,agricultural ,chemistry1 with ,notes and ,explanations by an ,american ,farmer4 ,cloth1 #ge cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #ej cts4 ,elements of ,agricultural ,chemistry and ,geology4 ,by ,j4 ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,m4,a41 ,f4,r4,s4 #ej cts4 ,youatt and ,martin on ,cattle3 ,being a ,treatise on their ,breeds1 ,management1 and ,diseases2 comprising a full ,history of the ,various ,races2 their ,origin1 ,breeding1 and ,merits2 their capacity for ,beef and ,milk4 ,by ,w4 ,youatt and ,w4 ,c4 ,l4 ,martin4 ,the whole forming a complete ,guide for the ,farmer1 the ,amateur1 and the ,veterinary ,surgeon1 with #ajj illustrations4 ,edited by ,ambrose ,stevens4 #a4be4 ,youatt on the ,horse4 ,youatt on the ,structure and ,diseases of the ,horse1 with their ,remedies4 ,also1 ,practical ,rules for ,buyers1 ,breeders1 ,breakers1 ,smiths1 c4 ,edited by ,w4 ,c4 ,spooner1 ,m4,r4,c4,v4,s4 ,with an account of the ,breeds in the ,united ,states1 by ,henry ,s4 ,randall4 #a4be4 ,youatt on ,sheep3 ,their ,breed1 ,management1 and ,diseases1 with illustrative engravings2 to which are added ,remarks on the ,breeds and ,management of ,sheep in the ,united ,states1 and on the ,culture of ,fine ,wool in ,silesia4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt4 #ge cts4 ,hoare on the ,grape ,vine4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on the ,cultivation of the ,grape ,vine on open ,walls1 with a ,descriptive ,account of an improved method of ,planting and ,managing the ,roots of ,grape ,vines4 ,by ,clement ,hoare4 ,with an ,appendix on the ,cultivation of the same in the ,united ,states4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,agriculturist3 ,being a ,collection of ,original ,articles on the ,various ,subjects connected with the ,farm1 in ten vols4 #hvo41 containing nearly four thousand pages4 #aj4 ,johnston's ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,lectures on the ,application of ,chemistry and ,geology to ,agriculture4 ,new edition1 with an ,appendix4 #a4be4 ,stephens' ,book of the ,farm4 ,a ,complete ,guide to the ,farmer1 ,steward1 ,plowman1 ,cattleman1 ,shepherd1 ,field-,worker1 and ,dairy ,maid4 ,by ,henry ,stephens4 ,with ,four ,hundred and ,fifty ,illustrations2 to which are added ,explanatory ,notes1 ,remarks1 c41 by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 ,really one of the best books for a ,farmer to possess4 ,cloth1 #d2 leather1 #d4ej4 ,the ,complete ,farmer and ,american ,gardener1 ,rural ,economist1 and ,new ,american ,gardener1 containing a ,compendious ,epitome of the most ,important ,branches of ,agricultural and ,rural ,economy2 with ,practical ,directions on the ,cultivation of ,fruits and ,vegetables2 including ,landscape and ,ornamental ,gardening4 ,by ,thomas ,g4 ,fessenden4 #b vols4 in one4 #a4be4 ,chemistry ,made ,easy1 ,for the ,use of ,farmers4 ,by ,j4 ,topham1 ,m4,a4 #be cts4 ,brandy and ,salt1 ,a ,remedy for various ,internal as well as ,external ,diseases1 ,inflammation and ,local ,injuries4 ,by ,rev4 ,samuel ,fenton4 #ab-a_/b cts4 ,southern ,agriculture4 ,comprising ,essays on the ,cultivation of ,corn1 ,hemp1 ,tobacco1 ,wheat1 c4 #a4 ,the ,cottage and ,farm ,bee ,keeper3 ,a ,practical ,work1 by a ,country ,curate4 #ej cts4 ,a ,book for ,every ,boy in the ,country4 ,elements of ,agriculture4 ,translated from the ,french1 and adapted to ,general ,use1 by ,f4 ,g4 ,skinner4 #be cts4 ,rural ,architecture2 ,comprising ,farm ,houses1 ,cottages1 ,carriage ,houses1 ,sheep and ,dove ,cotes1 ,piggeries1 ,barns1 c4 c4 ,by ,lewis ,f4 ,allen4 #a4be4 ,the ,american ,muck ,book4 ,the ,american ,muck ,book2 treating of the ,nature1 ,properties1 ,sources1 ,history1 and ,operations of all the principal ,fertilizers and ,manures in ,common ,use1 with ,specific ,directions for their ,preservation1 and ,application to the ,soil and to ,crops2 drawn from ,authentic ,sources1 ,actual ,experience1 and ,personal ,observation1 as ,combined with the leading ,principles of ,practical and ,scientific ,agriculture4 ,by ,j4 ,d4 ,browne4 #a4 ,youatt on the ,pig4 ,a ,treatise on the ,breeds1 ,management1 and ,medical ,treatment of ,swine2 with direction for ,salting ,pork1 ,curing ,bacon and ,hams4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt1 ,r4,s4 ,illustrated with engravings drawn from life4 #fj cts4 ,youatt on the ,dog4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt4 ,splendidly illustrated4 ,edited1 with ,additions1 by ,e4 ,j4 ,lewis1 ,m4,d4 #a4ej4 ,the ,poultry ,book4 ,by ,john ,c4 ,bennett1 ,m4,d4 #hd cts4 ,the ,american ,poulterer's ,companion1 ,with illustrations4 ,by ,c4 ,n4 ,bement4 #a4 ,american ,poultry ,book4 ,by ,micajah ,cook4 #ch cts4 ,the ,rose ,culturist4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on its ,cultivation and ,management4 #ch cts4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on ,honey ,bees1 ,their ,management1 c4 ,by ,edward ,townley4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,fruit ,book4 ,by ,s4 ,w4 ,cole4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,veterinarian4 ,by ,s4 ,w4 ,cole4 #ej cts4 ,the ,gardener's ,text ,book4 ,by ,peter ,adam ,schenck4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,gardener4 ,by ,william ,cobbett4 #ej cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,land ,measurer4 ,by ,james ,pedder4 #ej cts4 ,new ,england ,fruit ,book4 ,by ,john ,m4 ,ives4 #ef cts4 ,practical ,treatise on ,fruits1 ,adapted to ,new ,england ,culture4 ,by ,george ,jaques4 #ej cts4 ,farmer and ,emigrant's ,hand ,book4 ,a ,guide to ,clearing the ,forest and ,prairie ,land1 c41 c4 ,by ,josiah ,t4 ,marshall4 #ge cts4 ,farmer's ,barn ,book4 ,by ,youatt1 ,clater1 ,skinner and ,mills4 #a4be4 ,hind's ,farriery and ,stud ,book4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #a4 ,mason's ,farrier and ,stud ,book4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #a4be4 ,stewart's ,stable ,economy4 ,a ,treatise on the ,management of ,horses4 ,edited by ,a4 ,b4 ,allen4 #a4 ,sugar ,planter's ,manual4 ,by ,w4 ,s4 ,evans1 ,m4,d4 #a4be4 ,treatise on ,hothouses and ,ventilation4 ,by ,r4 ,b4 ,suckars4 #a4be4 ,ornamental and ,domestic ,poultry4 ,by ,rev4 ,edmund ,saul ,dixon1 ,a4,m4 ,with ,large ,additions by ,j4 ,j4 ,kerr1 ,m4,d4 ,with illustrations4 #a4 ,canfield on ,sheep1 ,their ,breeds1 ,management1 ,structure1 and ,diseases4 ,with ,illustrative ,engravings and an ,appendix4 ,edited by ,h4 ,j4 ,canfield4 #a4 ,book of ,flowers1 ,in which are described the various ,hardy ,herbaceous ,perennials1 ,annuals1 ,shrubby ,plants and ,evergreen ,trees desirable for ,ornamental ,purposes4 ,by ,jos4 ,breck4 #ge cts4 ,experimental ,researches on the ,food of ,animals1 ,the ,fattening of ,cattle1 and ,remarks on the ,food of ,man4 ,by ,robert ,dundas ,thompson1 ,m4,d4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,flower ,garden ,companion1 ,revised and enlarged4 ,by ,edward ,sayres4 #ge cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,treasure4 ,a ,treatise on the ,nature and ,value of ,manures1 and ,productive ,farming4 ,by ,f4 ,faulkner and ,joseph ,a4 ,smith4 #ge cts4 ,the ,practical ,farrier4 ,by ,richard ,mason4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,farrier4 ,by ,barnum4 #ge cts4 ,principles of ,practical ,gardening4 ,by ,geo4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,esq4 #a4be4 ,the ,american ,fruit ,garden ,companion4 ,a ,treatise on the ,propagation and ,culture of ,fruit4 ,by ,s4 ,sayres4 #ch cts4 ,spooner on the ,grape4 ,the ,cultivation of ,american ,grape ,vines1 and making of ,wine4 ,by ,alden ,spooner4 #ch cts4 ,the ,young ,gardener's ,assistant4 ,by ,thomas ,bridgeman4 #a4ej4 ,the ,florist's ,guide4 ,by ,thos4 ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,kitchen ,gardener's ,instructor4 ,by ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,fruit ,cultivator's ,manual4 ,by ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,horse1 ,its ,habits1 ,diseases and ,management1 in the ,stable and on the ,road1 c4 #be cts4 ,the ,fruit1 ,flower1 and ,kitchen ,garden4 ,by ,patrick ,neill1 ,,ll4,d41 ,f4,r4,s41 adapted to the ,united ,states4 #a4be4 ,ladies' ,companion to the ,flower ,garden4 ,by ,mrs4 ,loudon4 ,edited by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #a4be4 ,the ,fruits and ,fruit ,trees of ,america4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #a4ej4 ,do4 do4 do4 do4 colored1 #ae4jj4 ,dictionary of ,modern ,gardening4 ,by ,geo4 ,w4 ,johnston4 ,edited by ,david ,landreth4 #a4ej4 ,the ,rose ,fancier's ,manual4 ,by ,mrs4 ,gore4 #a4ej4 ,parsons on the ,rose4 ,the ,rose3 its ,history1 ,poetry1 ,culture1 and ,classification4 ,by ,s4 ,b4 ,parsons4 #a4ej4 ,hovey's ,fruits of ,america4 ,containing richly colored ,figures and full ,descriptions of all the ,choicest ,varieties cultivated in the ,united ,states1 in #ab numbers4 #ab4 ,history1 ,treatment and ,diseases of the ,horse1 ,with a ,treatise on ,draught1 and ,copious ,index4 #b4 ,rural ,economy1 ,in its ,relations with ,chemistry1 ,physics1 and ,meteorology4 ,by ,j4 ,b4 ,boussingault4 ,translated1 c41 by ,george ,law4 #a4 ,liebig's ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,edited by ,lyon ,playfair1 ,ph4,d41 ,f4,g4,s1 and ,william ,gregory1 ,m4,d41 ,p4,r4,s4,e4 #a4 ,the ,modern ,system of ,farriery1 ,as ,practiced at the ,present ,time at the ,royal ,veterinary ,college1 and from ,twenty ,years' ,practice of the ,author1 ,george ,skevington1 ,m4,r4,v4,c4 #e4 ,ewbank's ,hydraulics3 ,a ,descriptive and ,historical ,account of ,hydraulic and other ,machines for ,raising ,water4 #b4ej4 ,the ,fruit ,garden4 ,by ,p4 ,barry4 #a4be4 ,the ,american ,fruit ,culturist2 ,containing ,directions for the ,culture of ,fruit ,trees in the ,nursery1 ,orchard1 and ,garden4 ,by ,john ,j4 ,thomas4 #a4 ,the ,rose ,manual4 ,by ,robert ,buist4 #ge cts4 ,the ,plants of ,boston and ,vicinity4 ,by ,jacob ,bigelow1 ,m4,d4 #a4ej4 ,the ,indian ,meal ,book2 ,comprising the best ,receipts for the ,preparation of that ,article4 ,by ,miss ,leslie4 #be cts4 ,the ,horse's ,foot1 ,and ,how to ,keep it ,sound4 ,by ,william ,miles4 #be cts4 ,catechism of ,agricultural ,chemistry and ,geology4 ,by ,j4 ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston4 #be cts4 ,chemistry ,applied to ,agriculture4 ,by ,le ,count ,chaptal4 #ej cts4 ,british ,husbandry4 ,three ,vols4 and ,supplement4 #e4 ,loudon's ,arboretum4 ,eight ,vols4 #be4 ,loudon on ,gardening4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,gardening4 #aj4 ,loudon on ,agriculture4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,agriculture4 #aj4 ,loudon on ,trees1 c4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,trees1 ,shrubs1 c4 ,loudon on ,plants1 c4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,plants1 c4 ,the ,farmer's ,library4 ,two vols4 #hvo4 ,english4 #e4 ,the ,farmer's ,dictionary4 ,by ,d4 ,p4 ,gardner4 #a4ej4 ,practical ,treatise on the ,grape ,vine4 ,by ,j4 ,fisk ,allen4 ,boards1 #a2 paper1 #hh cts4 ,practical ,treatise on the ,veterinary ,art4 ,by ,j4 ,briddon4 #ge cts4 ,sheep ,husbandry4 ,by ,henry ,s4 ,randall4 #a4be4 ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,by ,justus ,liebig4 ,cloth1 #a2 cheap edition1 #be cts4 ,animal ,chemistry4 ,by ,j4 ,liebig4 ,cloth1 #ej cts42 cheap ed4 paper1 #be cts4 ,liebig's ,complete ,works1 ,in one vol4 #hvo4 #a4 ,cottage and ,farm ,houses4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #b4 ,country ,houses4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #d4 ,sportsman's ,library4 ,by ,t4 ,b4 ,johnson4 ,english edition4 #e4 ,landscape ,gardening4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #c4ej4 ,cottage ,residences4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing #b4 ,chaptal's ,agricultural ,chemistry1 ,with ,notes4 #a4 ,american ,husbandry4 ,by ,gaylord and ,tucker4 #a4 ,gardener's ,dictionary4 ,by ,geo4 ,don1 ,f4,l4,s4 #d vols4 quarto4 #aj4 ,journal of ,agriculture4 ,edited by ,john ,s4 ,skinner4 #c vols4 #f4 ,downing's ,horticulturist4 ,half morocco4 ,per ,vol4 yearly ,vols4 #c4ge4 ,do4 do4 half yearly #b4jj4 ,the ,complete ,produce ,reckoner1 ,showing the ,value by ,pound or ,bushel4 ,by ,r4 ,robbins4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,shepherd4 ,by ,l4 ,a4 ,morrill4 #a4 ,the ,principles of ,agriculture4 ,by ,albert ,d4 ,thaer4 #b4ej4 ,lectures to ,farmers on ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,by ,alexander ,petzholdts4 #ge cts4 ,the ,complete ,farrier4 ,by ,john ,c4 ,knowlson4 #be cts4 ,the ,complete ,cow ,doctor4 ,by ,j4 ,c4 ,knowlson4 #be cts4 ,milch ,cows4 ,by ,guenon4 #ch cts4 ,a ,home for ,all2 ,or a ,new1 ,cheap1 and ,superior mode of ,building4 ,by ,o4 ,s4 ,fowler4 #ej cts4 ,the ,poultry ,breeder4 ,by ,george ,p4 ,burnham4 #be cts4 ,the ,american ,fowl ,breeder4 #be cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,companion4 ,by ,judge ,buel4 #ge cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,instructor4 ,by ,judge ,buel4 #a4 ,european ,agriculture1 ,from ,personal ,observation4 ,by ,henry ,coleman4 #b vols4 #e4jj4 ,do4 do4 do4 #a vol4 #d4ej4 ,the ,gardener and ,florist4 #be cts4 ,the ,honey ,bee4 ,by ,bevan4 #ca cts4 ,elements of ,practical ,agriculture4 ,by ,john ,p4 ,norton4 #ej cts4 ,rogers' ,scientific ,agriculture4 #ge cts4 ,mills' ,sportsman's ,library4 #a4 ,stable ,talk and ,table ,talk4 #a4 ,hawker and ,porter on ,shooting4 #b4ge4 ,field ,sports4 ,by ,frank ,forrester4 #b vols4 #d ,fish and ,fishing4 ,by ,frank ,forrester4 #b4ej4 ,the ,american ,angler's ,guide4 ,by ,j4 ,j4 ,brown4 #a4ej4 ,johnson's ,farmer's ,encyclopedia4 ,edited by ,g4 ,emerson1 ,m4,d4 #d4 ,scientific and ,practical ,agriculture4 ,by ,alonzo ,gray4 #ge cts4 ,theory and ,practice of ,agriculture4 ,by ,a4 ,partridge4 #ab cts4 ,armstrong on ,agriculture4 #ej cts4 ,hovey's ,magazine of ,horticulture4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #b4 ,downing' ,horticulturist4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #c4 ,gilpin's ,landscape ,gardening4 ,english edition4 #b4ej4 ,the ,gardener's ,calendar4 ,by ,m4 ,mahon4 #c4ej4 ,agriculture for ,schools4 ,by ,rev4 ,j4 ,l4 ,blake1 ,d4,d4 #a4 ,text ,book of ,agriculture4 ,by ,davis4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,agriculturist and ,farmer's ,cabinet4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #a4 ,weeks on the ,honey ,bee4 ,cottages and ,cottage ,life4 ,by ,elliott4 #b4be4 ,chemical ,analysis4 ,by ,fresinus and ,bullock4 #a4 ,applied ,chemistry4 ,by ,a4 ,parnell4 #a4 ,the ,vegetable ,kingdom1 ,or ,handbook of ,plants4 ,by ,l4 ,d4 ,chapin4 #a4be4 ,the ,muck ,manual4 ,a new edition4 ,by ,samuel ,l4 ,dana4 #ge cts4 ,youatt on the ,horse4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s ,skinner4 #a4ej4 ,clater's ,farrier4 #ej cts4 ,the ,dog and ,sportsman4 ,by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 cts4 ,the ,bird ,keeper's ,manual4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,herd ,book4 ,by ,lewis ,f4 ,allen4 ,the ,american ,orchardist4 ,by ,j4 ,kenrick4 #ge cts4 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 ,invisible punctuation has been silently supplied4 ,the spellings chesnut and chestnut1 turkeys and turkies are used interchangeably2 the forms mantle piece and mantle-piece occur one time each4 ,the spelling ,alleghanies is used consistently4 ,other errors are individually noted4 ,table of ,contents ,indentation of the ,contents does not always correspond to chapters and subchapters of the body text1 and many entries have different names4 ,all secondary indentations were added by the transcriber1 representing text sections that have no distinct header4 ,there is no separate list of illustrations4 ,,prefatory 444 #i in body text1 ,prefatory covers pgs4 ix-xv ,miscellaneous ,details indented in printed ,contents1 as if a subsection of ,design ,,ii ,tree ,planting in the ,highway indented in printed ,contents1 as if a subsection of ,design ,,iv ,design ,,vii 444 ,miscellaneous 444 ,lawns1 ,grounds1 ,parks1 and ,woods printed ,contents shows ,miscellaneous as a chapter heading1 with ,lawns444 indented as a subsection ,fruit ,garden 444 ,kitchen ,garden 444 ,flowers all shown in body text as separate chapters ,explanations 7under ,rabbits7 not indented in printed ,contents ,the ,butter ,dairy shown in body text as a separate chapter ,the ,water ,ram 444 #ccg text reads #bcg ,short ,horn ,bull 444 #cdi ,short ,horn ,cow 444 #ceb pages reversed3 bull is on #ceb1 cow on #cdi ,body ,text frontispiece illustration is shown again on page #he its huge chimneys1 its wide fire-places the huge1 deep fire-places hyphens in original3 normal for text is fireplaces ,the ,swiss chalet printed with circumflex over e instead of a their good farming neighbors didn't call on them text reads did'nt an entrance door near the wood house form wood house unchanged3 normal for text is wood-house 7but note title page7 ,within doors it is a work-shop too4 hyphen in original3 normal for text is workshop so perfectly in keeping was it with propriety4 text has final comma ,in the front and rear roofs of this wing is a dormer window text reads dormar small-tool-house hyphens in original ,the ,lombardy-poplar--albeit1 an object of fashionable derision hyphen in original3 normal for text is ,lombardy poplar four stacks of chimnies spelling unchanged dogwood1 kalmia1 and rhododendron text reads rhodendendron while the fibrous-rooted perennials text reads perenials a seeming humility text reads humilty the fancy shops of ,paree printed ,pare' with accent on e tool-house1 piggery1 poultry-house1 corn-crib text reads con-crib about the size of a common window button text unchanged3 error for batten8 to support the comb as it is built text reads as t is with blank space and why not hen's8 apostrophe in original what she lays in winter must be subtracted text reads substracted should then be placed one inch below text reads theu the collections throughout the country text reads throughout the the he applied to his turnep crop spelling unchanged require the aid of education to develope4 spelling unchanged the finest ,southdowns1 ,short-horns1 and ,devons capitalization as in original3 normal for text is short-horns but irascibly inclined text reads irrascibly ,he will tree a squirrel text reads sqirrel ,advertising ,pages ,punctuation of book titles is unchanged4 ,the ,complete ,farmer and ,american ,gardener 444 #b vols4 numeral #b unclear ,rural ,architecture 444 ,piggeries 444 text reads ,pigeries ,experimental ,researches on the ,food of ,animals 444 ,thompson 444 name usually found as ,thomson ,the ,fruits and ,fruit ,trees of ,america 444 colored1 #ae4jj4 no sign ,the ,plants of ,boston and ,vicinity4 text reads o ,boston with empty space ,downing' ,horticulturist4 missing s in ,downing's ,the ,muck ,manual 444 ,by ,samuel ,l4 ,dana 444 text reads ,da a with empty space ,the ,dog and ,sportsman 444 cts4 price missing1 with no extra space ,the ,american ,herd ,book 444 4 number illegible1 possibly #b