Alexandria Gazette

LOCAL ITEMS.

ALEXANDRIA AS A WHEAT MARKET.—We sometimes hear complaints about the prices paid for Wheat in Alexandria, and are told by the complainants that ours is far below the markets of Baltimore and Richmond.—We have further heard, that, for this reason, many of the farmers from some of the neighboring counties intend, this season, to send their wheat crops to Richmond, where they say 5@10 cts. per bushel more can be obtained than here. Now, on this point, we desire to say a word. We are aware that, in some instances, and under peculiar circumstances, which are liable at times to operate to the benefit of one market, and the prejudice of another, higher prices have been paid for wheat in Baltimore and Richmond, than could at the same time be obtained in this market: and so we have known when wheat commanded much better prices here than in either of the other cities mentioned. As a general rule, the market in Alexandria has always compared favorably with Baltimore or Richmond, and when the quality of the wheat is taken into consideration, this market has been often ahead of either, as we have frequently heard those well acquainted with the subject remark.

We have it from reliable authority, that a great deal of the wheat sent to this market, and sold here, would not be allowed on 'Change in Baltimore, or be "looked at" by the millers of Richmond. And, yet, it is because wheat of such an inferior quality fails to bring full prices, that our market is complained of, and Richmond and Baltimore given the preference. We are informed of several cases in which farmers in this section of country have sent their good wheat to one or the other of the above mentioned places, and the indifferent to this place, and then grumbled because the prices were not the same. It is from such causes that we suffer, and not because prices paid here are not equal to those paid in Baltimore or Richmond.—The wheat for which high figures is obtained in our neighboring markets is of a superior quality—such as is used for family flour or seed, and would bring just as much, if not more, here. Alexandria has always enjoyed a high reputation as a fine wheat market, and well does she deserve it. But those who prefer other markets, and choose to send the best of their products to them, ought not to complain because high prices cannot be obtained for an inferior article. That is the sole cause of the difference, and it is unavoidable. Send to market good wheat, and good prices will be paid. But for refuse, or very inferior, the "top of the market" need not be expected.