a less profitable crop. Farmers were
awaking to the importance of manuring their old fields." And
this conviction. Governor Jenison represents, was a reason that
the farmers gave more attention to the raising of cattle for the
purpose of providing manure for their wheat crops, and he adds :
" The number and quality of our cattle was increased and im-
proved. With riiany farmers, the raising of cattle for market
became the leading business. The cattle from the County began to
be prized in market, and Addison became as noted for the excel-
lence of its cattle, as for its wheat. The excellent grazing qualities
of the soil were known and appreciated. Indeed, I have heard it
remarked, that the butchers of Brighton could distinguish, by the
appearance and feel, the fat cattle from this part of Vermont,
from thosein market from other places ; and that cattle from this
part of the State, of the same apparent flesh, had the preference
with them, opening better, having a greater quantity of tallow and
beef of superior quality and flavor."
HISTORY or ADDISO^^ C(JUXTY. 97
" A circumstance, referable to this period, has had great influence
on the subsefjuent pursuits and prosperity of the farming interest
of the County. Several individuals, awakened to the wants and
capabilities of the country, by privations and embarrassments expe-
rienced during the interruption of our commerce with foreign
countries before and during the war with Great Britain, did, at
great expense, and incurring the penalty of all innovators — being
laughed at by their neighbors — introduce into the County the
Merino sheep. Among the foremost in this beneficent vrork, were
Refine Weeks, Daniel Chipman, George