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1049108

e^Introduction

-QyC^^

|HAT THE MANITOBA of to-day is not
the Manitoba of fifteen or twenty years
ago, is apparent to all who have observ-
ed the development of the Province
since the early days of settlement.
Pioneering, for example, with its attend-
ant hardships, has become a thing of the
past. Yet many people in other parts — even in Eastern
Canada- are hardly awarj of this important fact. They still
look upon settlement in Manitoba as involving all the draw-
backs and inconveniences that were experienced by those
who first colonized the country.

Such a view is altogether erroneous. The extension of
the various lines of railway throughout the Province has
establishe(f cpnyenient markets in nearj^ every district, thus
removing what was fornierly the chief drawback to settle-
ment. In addition to this, the church, the school-house,
the post office and other similar conveniences, unknown in
the days of pioneering, are to be found everywhere.

That there are some hardships which the settler of to-
day will encounter before his home-building is completed,
need not be denied. But these are largely the hardships
resulting more from the difficulties which attend a change of
residence than fnom causes for which the country should be
held responsible.

The object, therefore, in preparing the following pages
has been to show, as clearly as may be, what Manitoba is
like at the present time. In doing this, the beaten path
often followed by former writers upon this subject has to
some extent been avoided. It has been considered unneces-
sary to speak of the geographical position of the Province,
its physical features, its area, its early history, or the many
other things of that nature, with which most people are
already familiar.

Nor has it been thought necessary to dwell upon the
fertility of the soil or the exceptional fitness of both soil
and climate for the production of wheat, of beef, pork,
mutton, butter and cheese. When it is considered that the
present standing of the Province as an agricultural country
has practically been reached in twenty years of eflfort, and
that during the first half of those twenty years settlers were
seriously handicapped through lack of convenient markets,

it would certainly appear that further reference to soil and:
climate need not be made. Besides, these are matters which
have also been fully discussed and with which those who|
have taken any interest in Manitoba can hardly fail to bel
familiar.

But what the intending settler desires to hear about, it
is believed, is something of the railway and market facilities,
the lands available for settlement by purchase or homestead
entry, the prevailing methods of farming and such other
information as will assist him in forming a correct idea of
the agricultural development of the Province, as well as
aflford him some help in selecting a home. Such at least is
the nature of the information set forth in these pages.

It may be well to mention further, that the statements
contained herein are reliable. There has been no attempt
and no desire to exaggerate or mis-state in any particular.
So far as possible, what has been said upon any subject
consists of a plain statement of fact, while the figures that
are given have been obtained from official sources. Wher^
ah o1!,?AT67roi" ■oCi'i'jerestion has been advanced it has.Ar its
authority the practical expc?r,iri"C''v.'?'^iarmers who have spent
many years in the Province and who have passed through
every stage of its development.

-«»

91—

)

ll«pr«acntatlv« Herds of Manitoba Cattle.

Wbit A\aLoitob2i Hm^rs \k PoIdst

FARMING, as carried on in the Province at the pres-
ent time, is the result of the practical experience of
early settlers. The pioneer farmers, while building
their homes, have at the same time discovered and
brought into practice the methods best suited to the suc-
cessful pursuit of their calling. That is why it is so fre-
quently claimed by those who know something of Mani-
toba that our farmers have long since passed the experi-
mental stage. It cannot be too often stated, or too strongly
emphasized, that the settler who comes to the country now
does so under more favorable auspices in this respect than
those who came many years ago, for the reason that he is
able to profit by the experience of farmers who know what
to do and how to do it in order to obtain the best results,

STOCK RAISING.

Plenty of good water, a luxuriant growth of the most
nutritious natural grasses to be found anywhere, and the
certainty of always securing an abundant crop of coarse
grains, hay, etc., for winter feeding, are some of the advan-
tages which Manitoba possesses for stock-raising and its
kindred pursuit, dairying.

The principal department of this 1 ranch of farming at
the present time is the raising of cattle. Large shipments
are annually made from the various districts of the Pro-
vnce, both for export and home consumption. According
to official returns made to the Provincial Government, the
number of beef cattle exported from Manitoba during the
seasons of 1894-5-6 was over 46,000 head. The total esti-
mated number of beef cattle sold by farmers during the same
period — for export and local consumption — was 110,000 head.

In stock-raising, hogs are next to cattle in importance
to the Manitoba farmer as a source of revenue. The export
trade is increasing from year to year, while the establishment
of packing houses in the large centres of the Province —
such as Winnipeg — has done much to create a steady local
demand. Official returns place the number of hogs exported
and consumed in Winnipeg during 1894-5-6 at nearly 80,000.
This would, of course, be considerably less than the number
actually sold by farmers, as the quantities consumed at local
points are not included in these figures.

Horses also receive considerable attention, and some
very fine specimens are raised throughout the Province, both
in light and heavy classes. Up to the present, however,
there has been no export trade in horses, for the reason that
the Ir cal demand has been greater than the supply, and they
are therefore still imported, both from the East and West.

Sheep raising is another important pursuit amongst far-
mers. During the past few years especially, many farmers
who did not formerly devote much attention to them are in-
creasing the size of their flocks, and otherwise manifesting)
an interest which pretty clearly indicates that they consider
sheep to be profitable stock to have.

A lesser, but very profitable, branch of farming is the
raising of poultry. Chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys are
successfully raised, and with very slight trouble. What is
more, they always command good prices. Indeed, the sup-
ply from local sources never equals the demand and large
quantities are still annually brought into the Province from
Eastern points. •

It may not b^ amiss to draw attention to the quality
of the stock to b€ found in the Province. In horses, cattle,
sheep and pigs, it is doubtful whether better specimens of the
various breeds "can be found iii any other part of Canada.
The farmers of Manitoba, being progressive in whatever
they undertake, have always looked well to quality. Visitors
from other parts, who attend the Industrial Fair annually
held in Winnipeg, where stock from all parts of the Pro-
vince is brought into competition, frequently testify through
the press to the high standard of what is shown.

The following statement, which has been compiled from
official returns, shows the numbers of the four kinds of stock
owned in Manitoba last year (1896): —

Cattle 210,507

Horses .... 95,140

Sheep 33,812

Pigs 72,562

DAIRYING.

Naturally enough, in a country so well adapted to the
production of beef, the dairying industry has kept pace with
that of stock-raising. Nearly a million and a half pounds
of butter were sold by Manitoba farmers last year at an
averaf ° price of 11 2-3 cents per pound. This was sold
chiefly to local dealers in exchange for goods.

In addition to the above output the farmers also sold a
little over three quarters of a million pounds of creamery
butter at an average price of 16 2-5 cents per pound, and

«-

41-

Pi ^8

Manitoba Harvesting and Threshlns Scenes.

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{ih

fSt

about one million pounds of cheese, average price 7 cents.
The total receipts for butter and cheese were $305,000.

The increase in the number of creameries and cheese
factories within the past few years is an important feature in
connection with the dairy industry of the Province. In
1887 there were eight cheese factories and three small
creameries. There are now 40 cheese factories and 28
Cieameries. These are established in various parts, but
chiefly in the older-settled districts. They are generally
owned by the farmers themselves, who organize for the pur-
pose into stock companies under a special Act of the Mani-
toba Legislature. Up to the present time, with one or two
exceptions, they have only been operated about six months
in each year — from May to October — but there are indica-
tions that the season will soon be considerably lengthened,
and that many of them will be operated the year rounds
thus greatly increasing their value to the farmer.

WHEAT GROWING.

Undoubtedly the chief industry of the farmers of I\Iani-
toba is the cultivation of wheat. While stock-raising, dairy-
ing, etc., are annually increasing in imp(jrtance, it must not
be forgotten that wheat is still king, and is likely to remain
the leading product for many years to come. Why this is
so may be briefly accounted for in the quality and yield of
our wheat. The superior quality of Manitoba No. 1 Hard
has more than once been established in competition with'
the best that other countries could produce. And so far as
yield is concerned, it is only necessary to point to the fact
that the average annual yield over the whole Province for
the seven years of 1890 to 189G, inclusive, was only a small
fraction less than twenty bushels per acre. These things,
together with economical methods of cultivation, go far to
explain why it was that the wheat are? of the Province
increased during the same period by 73 per cent, although,
as is well known, it was a period of remarkably low prices.
In other words, the farmers of Manitoba, even in the face of
low prices, have gone on enlarging their wheat area from
year to year, simply because the superior quality, the cer-
tainty of a good yield, as well as the most modern, and(
therefore economical, facilities for cropping, harvesting^
threshing and marketing, have enabled them to raise wheat
at a profit, while less favored countries were almos forced
to go out of the business.

CULTIVATION OF OTHER CEREALS.

In addition to wheat, most of the cereals found else-
where in Canada are successfuly grown in Manitoba. Oats,
barley and flax are of importance to the farmers of the Pro*-

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vince in the order named. Oats and barley are grown
largely for milling and malting, as well as for feed, and for
these purposes are equal to the best products of other
countries. Flax is now grown chiefly for the seed, but there
is every reason to believe that the fibre will shortly become
of value for manufacturing purposes. Rye, peas and corn
are also grown in most districts for feed.

PRODUCTS FOR WINTER FEEDING.

It is of course well known that the natural grasses of
Manitoba, when properly cured, make excellent feed for
stock. Hay from these grasses is the staple winter feed.
Timothy and rye are also cultivated for this purpose. Oats,
cut green and cured in the same manner as hay, are used
by many stockmen with very satisfactory results, while
others devote attention tc corn. The cutting box and the
chopping mill are extensively used in preparing the feed for
stock.

ROOTS AND VEGETABLES.

Manitoba has become noted for the excellence of these
products of the farm. In size, quality and yield it is doubtful
whether they can be equalled anywhere on the continent.
At present, except in the vicinity of the towns and villages,
they are grown only for home use.

MIXED FARMING.

While it has been necessary to speak of the various
departments of farming under separate headings, it must not
be supposed that the farmers of the Province confine them-
selves to one particular branch of their calling. There are
of course some specialists amongst them, but even these do
not devote themselves wholly to the pursuit in which they
are most interested. Diversity is the rule. Upon most of the
farms that have been occupied for some years, stock-raising,
dairying, and grain growing are combined, thus materially
increasing the productiveness of the farm, and the revenue
of the farmer.

THE CROP OF 1897.

According to the returns received by the Department of
Agriculture, Winnipeg, from correspondents who are located
in every part of the Province, the crop area of Manitoba
for the present season is as follows : —

«-

Wheat 1,290,882 acres.

Oats 468,141 acres.

Barley 153,266 acres.

Flax 20,653 acres.

Other grain 5,377 acres.

Potatoes 13,576 acres.

Roots 6,130 acres.

Total crop 1,958,025 acres.

A comparison of the foregoing returns with those of
previous years will show that the Province is making rapid
progress along agricultural lines. For example, the total
crop of 1897 shows an increase over the crop of 1896 of
343,804 acres. The area in wheat has increased 291,284
acres, or 30 per cent. The increase in other crops has ranged
from 6 to 20 per cent.

jSI-

Matters and Things Relating
to Agriculture*

IMPORTANT ORGANIZATIONS.

HE FARMERS of Manitoba have established a num-
ber of organizations which are of great value to
the various agricultural interests of the Province.
Amongst these are the Dairy Association, the Cat-
tle and Swine Breeders' Association, and the Poultry Asso-
ciation. At their annual meetings these associations deal
with such questions as are of interest to the farming com-
munity and publish exhaustive reports of the proceedings,
which are widely read. Leading men of the Province, and
elsewhere, who are specialists in the subjects they discuss,
are secured for these meetings.

Some twenty-five Farmers' Institutes have been organi-
zed at as many diflferent points. From time to time through-
out the year meetings are held at each institute for the dis-
cussion of practical questions. There is also a general body,
called the Central Farmers' Institute, which is composed of
delegates from the local bodies. The Central meets annu*-
ally for the transaction of business. At intervals, the locaJ
institutes are visited by speakers who are secured for the
purpose by the government and who discuss suitable topics.

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

There are about 50 local Agricultural Societies in the
Province. These societies hold annual fairs, at which the
agricultural products, stock, etc., of the district they cover
are brought into competition. They receive liberal grants
from the Manitoba Government.

DAIRY SUPERINTENDENT.

A Dairy Superintendent is employed by the Provincial
Government to regularly visit creameries and cheese fac-
tories during the season of operation with a view to having
butter and cheese products put on the market in the best
possible condition.

DAIRY SCHOOL.

Under the direction of the Superintendent a Dairy
School is conducted in Winnipeg during the winter months.

*■

■9

Manitoba Horsaa.

where practical instruction is imparted in both farm and
factory dairying. Tuition is free to all residents of the
Province.

THE EXPERIMENTAL FARM.

An institution of great benefit to the farming community
is the Experimental Farm, located near Brandon, which is
operated at the expense of the Dominion Government. As
the name would indicate, the object of the government in
conducting this farm, is to make systematic tests in the cul-
tivation of grains, grasses, roots, tree^ fruits, etc., for the
purpose of finding out and making known to farmers the
methods best adapted to the soil and climate of the Pro-
vince. Experiments in the feeding of stock, as well as in
num«.rous other matters of equal importance, are also made
and fully reported. The farm has been established for a num-
ber of years and its value to the agricultural industry of
Manitoba is a matter of history.

COLD STORAGE.

In view of the growing importance of the dairying and
kindred industries of the Northwest, the Dominion Govern-
ment have lately arranged for a complete system of cold
storage, by which these products of the Manitoba farmer
may be taken from his local railway station and delivered
in the markets of Great Britain under the most modern
methods of refrigeration. The system is now under con-
tract and is partly in operation. It is expected to be com-
pleted shortly. The benefits to the interests referred to of
having at their command cold storage facilities such as these
are designed to be, are so apparent that there is no need to
enlarge upon them.

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(Si

The Railways.

X GLANCE at the map will show that Manitoba is par-
ticularly well off in the matter of railway facili-
ties. Nearly every farming district is within easy
reach of one of the lines of railway. Counting only the
lines in actual operation, there are 1,533 miles of railway
within the Province. No better illustration could be given
of the progress that is being made than the bare statement
that in the year 1879 there were only 66 miles of partially
constructed railway in the whole Province. Following is a
statement showing the mileage of the different lines : —

Canadian Pacific Railway — Miles.

Main line 309

Branches 615

Manitoba and Northwestern

and branches 196

Great Northwest Central 51

Lake Manitoba Ry. & Canal Co —

(Dauphin line) 100

Northern Pacific & Manitoba

and branches 262

Total mileage 1533

The Markets.

ilk

X SERIOUS DRAWBACK in the early days of settle-
ment was the lack of market facilities. Settlers
were then obliged to team their grain and other'
products long distances in order to find a sale for them.
But all that has disappeared. In almost every district in
the Province the trip to market is now only the matter of a
few hours, where not many years ago it would probably
have occupied days.

It is safe to say that there is a market at every railway
station. Though it may be a very small place, the farmer
will always find a ready cash markrt for his wheat. Indeed,
the superior quality of Manitoba wheat causes a steady de-
mand for it at all times, and there is always a keen rivalry
amongst buyers to secure it.

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^^^^•ss

-sj 'I ■-■- ——^ .

» ■

:v<

Manitoba Sheep and Swin*.

1
i

Delivering Grain at a Manitoba Elevator.

«-

When the farmer has stock to sell the buyers visit his
farm, and the stock is delivered at the railway after the sal©
is made. Butter and eggs are readily taken at all times by
local merchants, who also handle poultry and other similar
products in season. In short, the market facilities of the
Province as a whole are equal to those of much older
countries, and the settler has no difficulty in disposing of
his products within a reasonable distance of his farm.

Mills.

S BECOMES a great wheat growing country, Mani-
toba is well supplied with flour mills, which are con-
veniently located at various railway points. These
mills are equipped with the best of modern machinery, and
they do both a custom and a shipping trade. There are
about 50 of them scattered over the Province, with a total
capacity of 10,400 barrels of flour per day.

Oatmeal mills are also established at a number of points,
thus afifording a local market for oats.

The Elevator System.

\ y PON the various lines of railway in Manitoba there
fcH ^^^ about two hundred shipping points, and at
^*^ most of these points elevator accommodation is
provided. Some of the larger towns have as many as
six elevators each. Even the small villages have from
one to three, according to the extent of the settlement sur-
rounding them. The capacity of the elevators varies from
20,000 bushels each, upwards. Some of them are owned by
the large milling companies, some by private individuals and
some by farmers themselves, who organize into joint stock
companies for the purpose. Grain is received at the eleva-
tors, cleaned and loaded on the cars, at a reasonable charge.
This charge includes storage for a stated length of time»
usually 15 to 30 days, after which a small additional charge
per month is made. As a rule, however, the grain is not
held in the local elevator, but is sent forward at once to the
large storage elevators at Fort William, where it is held as
long as may be wished.

At the present time the total grain storage capacity of
Manitoba, which includes a few small warehouses as well
as the elevators, is 13,985,400 bushels. These figures also*

-m

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«-

include the storage elevators at Fort William and Keewatin,
which of course are a part of the Manitoba system. At
many points in the Province new elevators are now under
construction, to be ready for this season's crop, and within
a few weeks the figures given will be largely increased.

It is perhaps not too much to claim that the elevator
system of the Province is as complete as can be found any-
where. That it is a necessity has been demonstrated more
than once. It is moreover an interesting and significant
fact that the elevator capacity of Manitoba has more than
doubled in the past six years.

Municipal Organization.

THE settled portions of Manitoba are organized into
municipalities, of which there are about 75, exclusive
of the incorporated cities, towns and villages. These
municipalities vary in size from 6 to 25 townships each, the
townships being six miles square.

The business of each municipality is transacted by a
council consisting of a reeve and six councillors, who are
elected annually by a direct vote of the ratepayers. The
chief duty of the council is the assessment of property
within the municipality, the levy and collection of taxes for
all purposes, the formation and re-adjustment of school
districts, and the building, construction and repairing of
roads and bridges.

The aflfairs of the municipalities are administered effici-
ently, yet with economy. A fair example of this may be
seen in the amount annually paid for salaiies of officials,
indemnity to councillors and all other purposes of adminis-
tration, which does not exceed an average per municipality
of $1000 to $1600.

In consequence of the economy and simplicity of the
municipal system of Manitoba there is low taxation. Few
matters are of greater importance — after climate and soil are
taken into account — than the question of taxation. Settlers
in other countries have found themselves seriously handi-
capped in this respect. But it is not so in this Province.
Taxes are levied only on the value of the land. The stock,
implements, household goods and all other personal effects
belonging to the settler are exempt from taxation of any
kind. Farm buildings and other improvements are also
exempt. The result of this is that an unimproved farm

I
J

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!
J

contributes as much in taxes to the funds of the municipality
as do€S the farm which the settler is improving into a homa
That such a system is of great benefit to the settler is
readily apparent.

What the system costs is a question which naturally
occurs. The amount of taxes raised annually varies some-
what in different municipalities. It is a matter largely con-
trolled by the people themselves, and in such cases there is
always more or less variation. But for the purpose of
obtaining a fair estimate, the average for several of the
leading municipalities in the Province has been taken, based
on the last collectors' roll. According to this, it has been
found that the average taxes for all purposes upon a quarter
section — 160 acres — of land amounts to a few cents less than
$13. If the average for all the municipalities in Manitoba
were taken, it would be somewhat less than the amounH
given.

The fact that there is no cumbersome and expensive
County Council machinery in Manitoba is another reason
why taxation is comparatively light.

Schools.

THE education of the young is carried on under a uni-
form system of non-sectarian schools. These schools
are supported partly by liberal grants from the Gov-
ernment, and partly by a tax levied on the lands of each
municipality for this purpose. Every child of school age is
entitled to free tuition. Teachers must qualify for their
profession by passing a thorough examination upon sub-
jects prescribed by the Government. They must also, after
passing their examination, undergo a Normal training in
order to become specially fitted for the duties of teaching;
The education received in the common schools is practical
and thorough. They are found in every municipality, there
being upwards of 1,000 in the Province at the present time.

In addition to the common or primary schools referred
to in the preceding paragraph, there are 28 intermediate
schools at various central points, three Collegiate schools,
and a University. With the University are affiliated several
denominational colleges.

«-

-R

91-

-s^

fil-

ls)

Churches.

OST of the religious bodies found in Canada are
represented in Manitoba. The churches of the
leading denominations are established in the vil-
lages and towns throughout the Province, where services
are held regularly every Sabbath. The various denomina-
tions also conduct Sabbath schools and other similar or-
ganizations.

^Ci^O-Qy

The Fuel Supply.

I OST of the principal farming districts of Manitoba
are within easy reach of timber suitable for fire-
wood. Cordwood delivered at the towns and vil-
lages throughout the Province is sold for $2.00 per cord and
upwards, according to the distance hauled. As a rulei,
farmers who have no wood land of '^heir own buy their fuel
at the bush and haul it home with their own teams. When
this is done, the cash outlay is considerably lessened. The
timber chiefly used for firewood is oak and poplar, both of
which make excellent fuel.

While it is true that the great majo-rity of the farmers
of the Province are likely to use wood as fuel for many
years to come, it is also true that even now they are not
obliged to depend entirely upon this fuel. The extensive
coal deposits just beyond the boundary of Manitoba in the
vicinity of Estevan are connected by railway with nearly
every part of the Province. This coal is delivered through-
out the Province at $3.00 to $5.00 per ton. It will therefore
be seen that a cheap and plentiful supply of fuel is assured
those who may decide to settle in Manitoba.

The Water Supply.

-R

BESIDES the numerous lakes and rivers within the
Province, there are in every district many small
streams, to which it is well to draw attention, because
the fact that they form a network over the whole country

91-

•Sll-

explains why it is that Manitoba is abundantly supplied
with moisture, while regions farther south— in the neigh-
boring Republic — have frequently been known to suffer very
seriously in this respect. An examination of the map will
give some idea of the large number of creeks, small lakes
and other bodies of fresh water, which, together with the
rivers and larger lakes, as well as the frequent stretches of
timbered land, have a most important influence upon the
annual rainfall of the Province.

It should be borne in mind that there never has been a
failure of the crops in Manitoba for wan': of moisture. It
it is true there have been seasons — as there are in every coun-
try — when the crops were lighter than they would have been
with a greater rainfall. But anything like a failure from
this cause is a thing unknown to the farmers of the Prov-
ince. Irrigation, too, as may be supposed, is also entirely
unknown.

Water for domestic purposes, and for stock where a
stream is not convenient, is generally found in abundance
and of good quality by digging to a depth of 12 to 30 feet.

Fruits.

!■

XMONGST the fruits which are found growing wild
throughout Manitoba, are strawberries, raspberries.
Saskatoons, black currants, gooseberries, grapes,
plums, two or three kinds of cherries, and cranberries. With
the exception of the first named, they are found upon wood-
ed or scrub land. The strawberry is generally found in
patches upon the open prairie. It possesses a flavor some-
what more acid, and is also a little smaller, than the culti-
vated variety, but it is preferred over the other, both for use
when fresh, as well as for its preserving qualities. The
raspberry is a red variety, very similar in size and fla-
vor to the red raspberry which grows wild in Ontario.
Next in importance is the cranberry. It is a fine fruit and
is largely used. The Saskatoon, or blueberry, is another
fruit that is annually picked in large quantities. In fact all
the fruits that have been named are regularly used by the
residents of the Province.

The cultivated fruits include strawberries, raspberries,
currants, gooseberries, crab apples, and, in a few cases,
standard apples. Four or five varieties of the latter have,
under favorable conditions, been successfully grown in a

-flJ

SJ-

supplied
; neigh-
flfer very-
nap will
all lakes
,vith the
tches of
pon the

limited way. The crab apple may be said to have passed
the experimental stage, as several varieties are now grown.
The other kinds of fruit above named are quite common in
the gardens of the Province. When properly cultivated,
they are very prolific and the fruit is large, well-flavored
and in all respects equal to the fruit of similar varieties
grown elsewhere.

1:1

5 been a
ture. It
ry coun-
ive been
re from
le Prov-
entirely

where a
undance
30 feet.

Lands of the Province.

ing wild
pberries,
grapes,
es. With
n wood-
ound in
)r some-
he culti-
h for use
s. The

and fla-
Ontario.
ruit and

another
1 fact all
I by the

pberries,
V cases,
er have,
vn in a

FREE homesteads are available in various districts of
the Province, but of course in the older settled dis-
tricts the choice of these lands is limited. In those
portions of Manitoba, however, where settlement has been
more recent, such as the Dauphin district, there are many
free homesteads still open for settlement. The homestead
lands are under the control of the Dominion Government
and are subject to certain regulations, a synopsis of which
will be found on another page. A list of the Dominion
Lands Agents, with the territory under their supervision, is
also given elsewhere.

Land may be purchased in all parts of the Province.
These lands are held by the railway companies, the Hud-
son's Bay Company, numerous loan companies, and by
private individuals. As a rule, the lands referred to were
selected by the companies and others in advance of settle-
ment, and they are therefore of superior quality. The terms
on which they may be purchased are very liberal, a small
cash payment only being required, the balance of the pur-
chase money being spread over a number of years at low
rates of interest. Where the intending settler is in a posi-
tion to pay for his land in cash, a liberal discount off the
usual prices is allowed. Persons looking over the country
and selecting a suitable farm will generally find an agent of
the owner in the town nearest the land, through whom the
purchase may be effected.

The price of land ranges from $2.50 per acre upwards,
according to location. Excellent land can be bought in
many districts, within easy reach of market, at $3.00 to $5.00
per acre. In some cases, where the farm possesses excep-
tional advantaiPjes in the way of location, as high as $10.00
is asked, but it is hardly necessary at the present time to go
beyond $3.00 to $5.00 in order to secure a desirable farm in
many of the leading districts of the Province.

-fit 81

«-

A Manitoba Farmer's Horn*.

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A Manitoba Barn.

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It has often been asked why there is so much vacant
land in Manitoba, even in districts which were settled many
years ago. To those who are familiar with the develop-
ment of the Province, the reasons for this are not far to*
seek. In the first place, many of those who came to thq
country at the time of the first big rush of settlers were
people who had never engaged in farming. Like everyone
else, however, they homesteaded, and for the time being be-
came farmers. When they had performed their settlement
duties a large number of them mortgaged their farms to the
loan companies for as much as could be got upon them,
with the intention of engaging in whatever calling they had
been accustomed to in the East, As this occurred during
the period of inflated prices, popularly known as the
"boom," the lands were mortgaged for more than they
were worth, and it was not long until they fell into the
hands of the loan companies. Then, again, a great deal of
other speculation in lands also took place at this time, with
the result that companies and private individuals acquired
them at the prevailing excessive prices. For a number of
years following the "boom" it was, of course, impossible to
dispose of land at any price, and those who had bought at
high prices were, until very recently, loath to sell at what
was to them a considerable loss. In other words, they held
their lands at much more than the real value, with the result
that incoming settlers sought out locations elsewhere rather
than pay the prices asked in the older districts. But of late
years, as has been pointed out, prices have been very reason-
able, and many of the new arrivals are consequently select-
ing their farms from amongst these lands.

TERMS ON LANDS.

In order to show the favorable terms upon which land
may be bought in Manitoba, a synopsis of the conditions of
payment governing the sale of the Canadian Pacific Railway
Company's lands is given herewith. The conditions in
regard to the other land and loan companies will, of course,
vary somewhat from those of the Canadian Pacific Railway
Company, but they will generally be found to be equally
favorable to the settler.

Under the present conditions of payment, the Canadian
Pacific Railway Company divide the aggregate amount of
principal and interest into ten equal instalments, the first
to be paid at the time of purchase, and the remainder annu-
ally for nine consecutive years thereafter, except in the case
of actual settlers, when the second instalment shall fall due
two years from date of purchase, the third in three years,
and so on. The interest charged is six per cent., but the
actual settler is relieved entirely of interest for the first year.

«-

-iib

The following table shows the amount of the annual in-
stalments on a quarter section of 160 acres at different prices
under the foregoing conditions : —

160 acres at $3.00 per acre $61.52

160 acres at |3.50 per acre 71.77

160 acres at $4.00 per acre 82.03

160 acres at $4.50 per acre 92.28

160 acres at $5.00 per acre 102.54

If the land is paid for in full at time of purchase, a re-
duction from the price is allowed equal to ten per cent, on
the amount paid in excess of the usual cash instalment. Pur-
chasers paying any instalment, or more, one full year be-
fore the date of maturity, will be allowed a discount at the
rate of six per cent, per annum.

Hints to Intending Settlers.

WHO SHOULD COME.

THOSE who intend to engage in any department of
agriculture are of course the class for which oppor-
tunities a;e greatest. Farm laborers will also find
little difficulty in obtaining work at good wages. The de-
mand for female servants has never been supplied, and girls
who are willing to engage in domestic employment need
have no fear of securing work at excellent wages.

Certain classes of tradesmen are in demand to some ex-
tent. These are carpenters, masons, plasterers, blacksmiths,
etc. Indeed, anyone who is willing to work can do well in
Manitoba.

WHEN TO COME.

The best time for those to come who are moving in to
settle is in March. Young men expecting employment on
farms, or married men who have decided where they will
locate, would do well to come during the month mentioned,
if possible. Those in search of work will thus be able to
look round a little before the busy season sets in, while
men with families will have time to get settled before the
farm work claims their attention. Persons who intend look-
ing over the country, with a view to becoming settlers,
should come during the summer or early fall — that is, from
June Ist to Sept. 1st. This will enable them to see the
Province under conditions the most favorable to the selec-
tion of land.

•51-

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nnual in-
nt prices

.62
77
.03
.28
.54

se, a re-
cent, on
nt. Pur-
year be-
lt at the

nient of
1 oppor-
ilso find
The de-
md girls
snt need

ome ex-

ksmiths,

well in

g in to
lent on
ley will
itioned,
able to
, while
ore the
d look-
settlers,
s, from
see the
: selec-

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It

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FREE ACCOMMODATION.

The Dominion Government have comfortable buildings
at Winnipeg, Brandon and Dauphin, which may be occupied
by incoming settlers free of charge. These buildings are
provided with cooking and other hou-^ekeeping facilities.
Settlers or their families may occupy them for any reason-
able length of time.

FREE INFORMATION.

Information upon any and all matters relating to settle-
ment in Manitoba is furnished, free of charge, in Winnipeg
by the Department of Agriculture and Immigration, or th©
Commissioner of Immigration. Lists of the names of farm-
ers who are in need of help, advice in regard to lands, ancj
a great deal of similar information, may be had at these
offices.

A DAY OR TWO IN WINNIPEG.

Unless the intending settler has already secured his lo-
cation, or is going directly to friends, it is well for him to
stop a few days in Winnipeg, where he will have an opportu-
nity to become posted from reliable sources as to the various
districts of the Province. Moreover, the head offices of the
companies having lands for sale are located in Winnipeg,
and particulars regarding properties held by them may be
obtained before proceeding westward.

SELECTING A FARM.

Before finally deciding on a location, the intending set-
tler should, if possible, make a personal examination of the
land. He will thus be able to SaJsfy himself whether the
land — in situation, quality and surroundings — will be likely
to suit him. Individual likes and dislikes enter largely into
the choosing of a home, as they do into any other pro-
ceeding.

COST OF NECESSARIES.

Articles needed by the farmer may be bought at any of
the towns and villages throughout the Province. Dry
goods, clothing, boots and shoes, provisions, hardware, tin-
ware, lumber, furniture, machinery, implements and such
other things, great and small, as are required on the farm,
are readily obtainable. Prices are in most cases very rea-
sonable.

FARMS TO RENT.

In the older-settled districts there are often opportuni-
ties to rent a farm for one or more years. This is an ex-

cellent
arrived
time fo
in thes
largely
A comi
owner
ing cer
turned
general
would
tends
the spr

buildings
occupied
ings are
facilities,
reason-

o settle-
/innipeg
or the
of farm-
ids, an(j
it these

his lo-
him to
:)portu-
v^arious

of the
inipeg,
lay be

g set-
of the
:r the
likely
' into
pro-

ly of
Dry
tin-
such
irm,
rea-

jni-
ex-

-e

cellent way of making a start, for the reason that the newly
arrived settler is able, by renting a place, to take plenty of
time for selecting land of his own. The amount of rental
in these cases cannot be definitely stated, as it depends)
largely on the character and extent of the improvements.
A common metho^— the one most often adopted — is for the
owner to let the farm on shares, at the same time furnish-
ing certain implements, stock, etc., which are of course re-
turned to the owner at the end of the term. Farms are
generally let during the winter and early spring, and it
would therefore be necessary for the r^^wcomer who in-
tends to rent to be on the ground soi little time before
the spring break-up.

WHAT TO BRING.

Perhaps the best plan for the intending settler, before
leaving for Manitoba, is to turn whatever he has into ready
money, if he can do so, reserving only bedding and wear-
ing apparel. Still, in cases where a car can be hired by one
or more settlers, it may be well to bring some additional
effects, as well as a few head of stock, provided the settler
already owns the latter and is not obliged to buy. Stock
of all kinds, however, can be got in the Province at reason-
able prices, and if he has to buy at all, it is better for him
to buy here, so as to avoid the risk and expense of bring-
ing the stock so far. It is not advisable to bring machin^-
ery, as it is likely to be unsuited to farming in Manitoba.
To sum up, the settler should first of all bring his bedding
and clothing. Then, if he intends to hire a car, he may
bring such of his household effects as he considers of most
use, and any kind of good stock — not too old — such as
horses, cattle, poultry, hogs, etc. If he has to buy, how^
ever, it is better to buy here. And, lastly, he should bring
all the money possible.

THE QUESTION OF CAPITAL.

It may be taken for granted that the more money the
newcomer has the better. With ample means to buy bis
farm, erect buildings and otherwise equip it, he is certainly
making his start under the most favorable conditions. Yet,
it is a well-known fact that many of the most successful
farmers in Manitoba at the present time are men who start-
ed with practically no capital. The intending settler, there-
fore, who knows something of farming, and is willing to
work, though his means may be very hmited, need have no
anxiety about the result.

THE NEARER THE MARKET THE BETTER.

It must be evident to anyone who has given the matter
consideration, that a location near market is a great deal

■m

i',.

better than one at some distance from it. A farmer living
near market is able to turn his products into money at a
minimum of expense. On the other hand, the farmer who.
hauls his grain a long distance is operating at a disadvan-
tage, not only in the extra labor and expense of the longer
haul, but also in the added cost for granary room and
other facilities which the distance makes neces'sary. It is
therefore an important matter of economy for the intending
settler to locate as near as possible to market, even though
his land should thereby cost him somewhat more than it
would if more remotely situated.

A GOOD TIME TO COME.

When everything is taken into account, it is doubtful
whether there has ever been as favorable a time as the pres-
ent for settlers to locate in the Province. The long trips
and the many hardships incident to the early days of settle-
ment are no longer experienced. Railway and market facil-
ities, schools, churches, post offices and other conveniences,
unknown in pioneer days, abound throughout the province.
In order to secure the full benefit of these advantages, it is
of course necessary to purchase instead of homesteading.
Yet the settler of to-day, who buys his farm at prevailing
prices, certainly obtains it at a less outlay than did the set-
tler of pioneer days. The expense of a single trip through
the country in search of land, or of hauling grain 50 or 100
miles to market, was often greater then than the first pay-
ment on a quarter section at the present time. It is indeed
readily admitted by old settlers themselves that land is
cheaper in the end at present prices, and under present con-
ditions, than it was when homesteaded by them at a cost of
$10 for a quarter section.

%^ tt^ ^

«-

SS-

AUl
8 anc
vide
homel
ily, o|
one

though
than it

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•-

•29

Sumrnary of Homestead and other
Regulations.

All even-numbered sections of Dominion lands, excepting
8 and 26, which have not been homesteaded, reserved to pro-
vide wood lots for settlers, or for other purposes, may be
homesteaded by any person who is the sole head of a fam-
ily, or any male over eighteen years of age, to the extent of
one quarter section of 160 acres, more or less.

»M^-:y ENT(|Y. 'J-^i;'

Entry may be made personally at the local land office
for the district in which the laftd to be ta)cen is situate, or if
the homesteader desires, he may, on applicatiQn to the Min-
ister of the Interior, Ottawa, pr the Commissioner of Im-
migration, Winnipeg, receive authority for some one to
make the entry for him. A fee of $10 is charged for an or-
dinary homestead entry ; but for lands which have been
occupied, an additional fee of |10 is chargeable to meet in-
spection and cancellation expenses.

HOMESTEAD DUTIES.

The settler is allowed six -months after entry, within
which to go into residence, after which he is required to
reside- upon and cultivate his homestead for a period of
three years, during which he may not be absent more than
six months in any one year without forfeiting his entry.

APPLICATION FOR PATENT

may be made at the end of the three years, before the local
agent, or the homestead inspector. Before making applica-
tion for patent, the settler must give six months' notice in
writing to the Commissioner of Dominion Lands, Ottawa,
of his intention to do so. When, for convenience of the
settler, application for patent is made before a homestead
inspector, a fee of $5 is chargeable.

INFORRT iTION.

Newly arrived immigrants will receive at any Dominion
Lands Office in Manitoba or the Northwest Territories in-
formation as to the lands that are open for entry, and from
the officers in charge, free of expense, advice and assistance
in securing lands to suit them.

SETTLERS' EFFECTS-DUTY FREE.

Item No. 766 of the Canadian Customs Tariflf, making
settlers' effects free of duty, reads as follows : —

■it

«9

and

tiers'

Nort
ing !

If
lowe

lowe
lowe

geth
Ace
aniii
case

at t

thei

the

160

free

sto

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e
I

3
O
M

c
o

lis

" Wearing apparel, household furniture, professional
books, implements, and tools of trade.occupation or employ-
ment, which the settler has had in actual use for at least six
months before removal to Canada, musical instruments,
domestic sewing machines, live stock, carts and other veh-
icles and agricultural implements in use by the settler for at
least one year before his removal to Canada, not to include
machinery, or articles imported for use in any manufactur-
ing establishment, or for sale ; provided that any dutiable
article entered as settlers' effects may not be so entered un-
less brought with the settler on his first arrival, and shall
not be sold or otherwise disposed of without payment of
duty, until after two years' actual use in Canada ; provided
also that under regulations made by the Minister of Cus-
toms, live stock when imported into Manitoba or the North-
west Territories by intending settlers, shall be free, until
otherwise ordered by the Governor-in-Council."

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS.

Customs regulations regarding live stock for Manitoba
and the Northwest Territories, brought in under the " Set-
tlers' Effects " clause of the tariff.

A settler taking up 160 acres of land in Manitoba or the
Northwest Territories may bring in free of duty the follow-
ing stock, viz. : —

If horses only are brought in (1 to each 10 acres) 16 al-
lowed.

If cattle only are brought, 16 allowed.

If sheep only are brought in (1 to each acre) 160 al-
lowed.

If swine only are brought in (1 to each acre) 160 al-
lowed.

If horses and cattle are brought in together, 16 allowed.

If sheep and swine are brought in together, 160 allowed.

If horses, cattle, sheep and swine are brought in to-
gether, the same proportions as above are to be observed.
According to the quantity of land taken up, the number of
animals admitted, on the above basis, will vary in different
cases.

In order to meet the cases of intending settlers arriving
at the frontier with their live stock, and not having selected
their homestead or other holding, it is provided that only
the number of animals above mentioned for a homestead of
160 acres, can be permitted to pass beyond the boundary,
free of duty, with each intending settler.

If the settler brings with him more than that number of
stock, and states his intention of taking up sufficient land to

<B-

-fl)

3-J

justify the free entry of such greater number, he must pass
a regular entry tor duty for all the stock in excess of the
number applicable to a homestead. But so soon as he
lodges with the collector at port of entry documentary evid-
ence showing that he has taken up such greater quantity of
land, such evidence will immediately be forwarded to the
Customs Department with reclaim paper, on receipt of
which the duty so paid will be refunded.

Dominion Land Offices.

WINNIPEG DISTRICT.

E. F. Stephenson, agent, Winnipeg. Comprises all
lands east of the first meridian, ranges 1 to 8 west ; all town-
ships north to and east of Lake Manitoba, ranges 9 to 12,
townships 1 to 7 inclusive ; ranges 13 to 14, townships 1 to
4, inclusive.

SOURIS DISTRICT.

W. H. Hiam, agent, Brandon. Comprises ranges 15 to
34, townships 1 to 4, inclusive ; ranges 13 to 34, townships 5,
6 and 7 ; ranges 9 to 34, townships 8 to 12, inclusive ; ranges
23 to 34, townships 13 and 14 ; ranges 29 to 33, townships 15
and IG.

LITTLE SASKATCHEWAN DISTRICT.

John Flesher, agent, Minnedosa. Comprises ranges 9
to 22, townships 13 and 14 ; ranges 9 to 28, townships 15
and 16 ; ranges 9 to 29, townships 17 to 20, inclusive; ranges
25 to 29, all townships north of 20.

LAKE DAUPHIN DISTRICT.

F. K. Hcrchmer, agent, Lake Dauphin. Comprises
townships north of township 20 between west shore, Lake
Manitoba, and range 24, inclusive.

«^ fe^ ^S*

«■

■j

-«

nANITOBA'J FUTURE.

*' About a year ago I spoke of the grand success of
a handful of 25,000 farmers who had raised 60,000,000
bushels of grain. Last season, under adverse condi-
tions, a crop had been realized of half that amount,
when under similar conditions in any other country it
would have been a complete failure. I have gone
through all parts of the Province, and I know that
there are ten times as much good land as is now
occupied, and I look forward to the time when there
will be 250,000 farmers raising 600,000,000 bushels of

grain."

— Hon. Thos. Greenway, Premier of Manitoba.

**When we consider for one moment that the 25,000
farmers of Manitoba have realized over $20,000,000 as
a result of their industry during the past two years, I
think it must be admitted that there is much in the
situation to make us feel encouraged."

— F. H. Mathewson, President Winnipeg Board of
Trade.

-•

j sm

j 609

vl:

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.,v.|.'..4s»-J » i P -'

/ ■ /

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