A 2-


 Search for New Crops 1770-1840




M ANY OF AMERICA'S early statesmen were sharply aware of the
agricultural problems facing the young, growing nation. Men
like Franklin, Jefferson, Madison, John Quincy Adams, and
William H. Crawford took an intelligent interest in the develop-
ment of agriculture, and were constantly striving to promote the
economic interests of the nation. They enjoyed associating with
scientists and enlightened agriculturists, and cooperated with the
work of agricultural and scientific societies.
 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
 Franklin's intellectual drive and broad interests brought him
recognition as one of the busiest men of his time. This same
activity and curiosity led him to consider agrarian problems, and
he did much to promote agriculture at home and abroad. While
in England from 1764 to 1775 as an agent of the colony of
Pennsylvania, he carefully observed farming methods and sent
back many plants to his friends in America.
 As Carl R. Woodward says in his book, Meet Dr. Franklin (1),
". on excursions about the countryside to seek relaxation from
the formalities of court and tension of diplomatic circles, Franklin
was quick to perceive new varieties of plants, along with new
ideas of culture, to pass on to his American friends. On one
occasion he sent John Bartram from England seeds of new
varieties of turnips, cabbage and peas; again he forwarded to his
wife some naked oats, recommended for oatmeal, and some Swiss
barley, 'six rows to an ear,' with the request that she divide it
among his friends Hugh Roberts, Samuel Rhoades, John Bar-
tram and others ... then it was Penshurst peas, and again a new
sort of beans that he sent home across the water."
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