Herb Producer

IF YOU HEAR the all too common remark made about a friend "his heart might be better—has to take digitalis" it's a good bet that the digitalis he's using was raised by Sydney Batchelder '25 of Alstead, New Hampshire.

Before beginning to raise digitalis Syd tried everything from being a lumber jack to Governor's Secretary and back. This variety of work included a period with the G E up in Schenectady and most interesting social service work in Boston. Then a

breakdown in health sent him to the country to recuperate. By the time Syd had won his health back, he was in the digitalis business head over heels and finds it more interesting each year.

When the shooting started in Europe a good part of the supply normally shipped to the United States was shut off. Frantic efforts were made to raise a supply in the United States and to learn how to dry the digitalis, once it had been raised.

It had been proven that New Hampshire is an excellent spot to raise digitalis. With a number of other men Syd Batchelder began to raise a crop and began experimentation as to the best drying method, for the method of drying determines the potency of the drug.

As a result of his experiments he set up a record for potency in digitalis in 1940. This year he holds the largest stock of new crop digitalis in New England. With two records to his credit, Syd feels quite justly that he has done a significant piece of work during the last three years. And digitalis raising is not to be confused with any other type of farming. It is distinctly pioneering work that is of inestimable service to the nation. And the successful digitalis farmer receives a substantial money award.

When Syd is not busy with raising, curing and marketing his digitalis he takes a normal part in community life, gives his family some time and keeps up his Dartmouth connections. He has a rough and ready son of eleven and daughter at Northfield. To date Syd Batchelder's career is a positive negation that all pioneering ceased in New Hampshire when the last Indian was run into Canada.

BATCHELDER AND STIMULANT