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Newspaper
Alton Observer
Location
Alton, Illinois, United States of America
Date
May 18, 1837
Page
4
In May 1836 a farmer reports five potato rows tested with different seed forms: whole tubers, halves, seed-ends, quarters and mixes. Results measured by weight per 100 ears show small seed tubers produced about 89 pounds per row, with mixed seed forms yielding 87 2 3 pounds, suggesting management and soil affect outcomes.
Nathan Wild of Chesterfield recommends planting one fair whole potato per hill at about four feet by twenty three inches. He reports trials with one, two, or four potatoes per hill and finds the single whole seed yields the greatest profit, while cutting seeds diminishes plant vigor. He notes two per hill may work if hills are farther apart, but cutting remains inferior. March 20 1837.
A Yankee Farmer communication explains that careful soil enrichment and seed selection elevate fruit size, color, and flavor. It describes how planting from superior stock multiplants ears, yields of corn, and how grafting and cross pollination create new varieties including damask roses and multi color apples, offering faster rewards than old methods.
A note from N. Le. Farmer explains grafting as the method to obtain thrifty fruit trees. He recommends lifting roots to expose a strong scion, slitting the bark, inserting the scion, and burying roots to ensure growth. The approach yields steady first year results and rapid bearing after three years, with eventual removal of the original stock.
A horticulturist in Bohemia cultivates an apple orchard by placing cuttings of select varieties in a potato and burying them with only the tip exposed. The potato nourishes the shoot as roots form and the shoot grows into a productive tree without grafting.
The May 1837 event in Upper Alton showcased a large youth procession of 140 children and attendees from Alton. Leaders spoke at the Baptist church with prayers by Rev. Hogan and remarks by Prof. Newman and other ministers. After services, a field gathering with simple refreshments and dogwood plantings concluded the day.
The author laments self inflicted misfortune from poor farming and excess profits chasing. He warns of high prices and famine threats as producers fail to improve fields. He urges hope that the new season will yield abundance if duty is fulfilled and resources cared for.
A 1837 letter from LW of Lansingburgh describes using a four inch hole in a brick smoke house to vent smoke and vapor. Stopping the hole caused moisture buildup and spoiled hams, then reopening dried and seasoned them by September.
The passage notes a 1819 first Sunday School effort two miles away and a 1820 second, larger attempt in a nearby house, both by pivotal individuals, who appeared at an event gathering five hundred fifty Sabbath School scholars in the area.
A. Alexander & Co. wholesale dealers in dry goods groceries hardware queensware boots shoes hats and more advertise from Alton Illinois. A Avexaxpsr Alton. J. B. Damorry & Co. Louisville. A. B. Roffs stove castings warehouse and tin and sheet iron manufactory on Second street Alton Illinois.
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