author
S. L. (Stephen Lincoln) Goodale
1815–1897
A practical 19th-century Maine writer on farming, breeding, and fertilizers, he helped shape agricultural education in his state. His work blends hands-on observation with a strong belief that better science could improve everyday farm life.
1 Audiobook
The Principles of Breeding or, Glimpses at the Physiological Laws involved in the Reproduction and Improvement of Domestic Animals
by S. L. (Stephen Lincoln) Goodale
About the author
Born in South Berwick, Maine, in 1815 and raised in Saco, Stephen Lincoln Goodale built a career that crossed agriculture, chemistry, and public service. Reliable records describe him as secretary of the Maine Board of Agriculture from 1856 to 1872, and also as a chemist and business manager connected with the Cumberland Bone Company.
Goodale wrote about breeding, fertilizers, and practical farm improvement at a time when American agriculture was becoming more scientific. Catalogs of his work show titles such as The Principles of Breeding and Commercial Manures, and later memorial material portrays him as a steady advocate for Maine agriculture over many decades.
He seems especially interesting as a writer because he was not just commenting from the sidelines: his books and lectures grew out of direct involvement with farming institutions, agricultural reform, and applied science. That makes his work a useful window into how 19th-century farmers and reformers tried to connect observation, experiment, and everyday practice.