We have, it is true, had a great deal more of experimenting in co-operative distribution than is ordinarily supposed.

Co-operative stores began among us between 1830 and 1840.

The Workingmen's Protective Union developed a great many stores at this time, which together did a business in their best days ranging from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 per annum.

In the decade 1860-70 there was an extensive revival of co-operative stores; plans for wholesale agencies being even discussed.

A few of these earlier stores still live.