American Madder.

The Scientific American 33, 30.4.1853

"The experiments which have of late been made with home-grown madder," says the "Lowell Journal," "have potential that, when properly treated, American is equal to the best French madder. Like Turkey, Dutch or Alsace madders, the American requires the addition of a little chalk to produce the best effects. During the past winter, the Merrimack Company have used, with great success, some madder grown in Montague, Franklin Co., Mass., and are now about to dye some calico with this Massachusetts madder, to be exhibited aty the New York Crystal Palace. - Within a few days the Merrimack Company have received a small sample of madder grown in Georgia, which proves to be an excellent article - quite equal to that of Massachusetts. We have been informed that there grows wild, in Florida a plant, whose roots, when eaten by hogs, colors their bones red. Such is the effect of madder. Doubtless this is an indigenous species, whose cultivation would richly reward the planter. It is hoped that samples of this 'Pinkroot,' as it is termed in Florida, may be forwarded to Lowell for trial in dyeing. It is very desirable to determine whether it is madder requiring the peculiar treatment of all madders, (except the Avignon,) to produce the fullest, fattest, and most brilliant colors."