The fruit was described in the Western Horticultural Review for 1852, before I was aware that my friend Reuben Ragan had an apple of the same name; nevertheless, this, by priority of publication, will stand, unless there should prove to be another Lewis that can claim seniority of publication. I distinguish the other apple by calling it Lewis of Ragan; it is in another class.—[See Downing, p. 164.]
Fruit medium to large, round, somewhat ovate, regular; Surface smooth, yellow, striped and marbled scarlet; Dots scattered, gray and yellow.
Basin deep, abrupt, regular; Eye medium, closed.
Cavity acute, deep, regular; Stem long, slender.
Core regular, oval, heart-shaped, closed, meeting the eye; Seeds numerous, plump, brown; Flesh yellow, very tender, crisp, juicy; Flavor acid to sub-acid, rich, delicious; Quality best; Use, table and kitchen; Season, August. Marked in my notes "One of the very best of the new apples."
Liberty.
Fig. 224.—LIBERTY.
This valuable market variety originated near Columbus, Ohio, where it was brought into notice by M.B. Bateham, the excellent Secretary of the Ohio Pomological Society, and founder of the Columbus Nurseries.
Tree vigorous, healthy, large, spreading and productive; believed to be entirely hardy.