The colonists were cultivating grape-vine and are said to be the first producers of wine in this country.

The annual immigration from Switzerland is comparatively small, still it is appreciated.

The Swiss are making themselves useful in many branches; some are experienced in the dairy-business, others are skilful mechanics, gardeners, teachers, musicians etc.

THE ITALIANS.

Italians, although few in number, are scattered all over the country.  Their occupations are various.  In some of the larger cities they control the fruit-trade.  Many are engaged in marble-shops, where they display great skill; the greater number however is engaged in coal-mines, canal- and railroad building.

Many are street-musicians receiving a hearty welcome from the little ones, when they appear with their organs, harps and violins.

THE FRENCH.

The French settlements were 100 years ago very prominent, but gradually lost their original character, the people americanized and even their language became in some parts a queer mixture of French, English and Indian.  Many cities, towns and streets still bear the name of some of those early settlers.

French immigration has been comparatively small for the past twenty years.  Most Frenchmen may be found in New York, St. Louis and New Orleans where even some French newspapers are published.

As confectioners, cooks, importers of wines and brandies, as artists, teachers of language etc. they have attained a high reputation.