The apiary; or, bees, bee-hives, and bee culture [1865]: Being a familiar account of the habits of bees, and the most improved methods of management, with full directions, adapted for the cottager, farmer, or scientific apiarian

"The Apiary; or, Bees, Bee-Hives, and Bee Culture" by Alfred Neighbor is an informative manual about beekeeping and apiculture written in the mid-19th century. The work serves as a comprehensive guide on the habits of bees, the best management practices for beekeepers, and the latest advancements in bee-hive technology. With a focus on both the scientific and practical aspects of beekeeping, it appeals to a wide audience, from amateur enthusiasts to more experienced apiarians seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills. The opening portion of the book establishes Alfred Neighbor's intent to fill a gap in existing literature on bee-keeping by providing detailed advice and practical instructions for managing bee colonies effectively. It discusses the social structure of bee communities, detailing the roles and characteristics of different types of bees—the queen, drones, and worker bees—while emphasizing the importance of humane and productive management techniques. Neighbor critiques traditional methods of bee-harvesting and promotes a more modern, less destructive approach to apiculture, implying a growing societal appreciation for beekeeping as both a hobby and a potential source of income for farmers and cottagers alike.