I. 



Natural Science in Newcastle.' 



IT will be my purpose to bring before you a brief history of the 

 progress of biology in Newcastle, with especial reference to its 

 museums ; and it would be the neglect of an obvious duty if, as intro- 

 ductory to this, reference were not made to the little band of able 

 naturalists of a past generation, since to them was due the origin of 

 the two societies still working here, the " Natural History Society of 

 Northumberland, Durham, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne," and the 

 " Tyneside Naturalists' Field Club." 



About the year 1829 certain scientific men, among whom were 

 Joshua Alder, William Hutton, Thomas, John, and Albany Hancock, 

 William Hewetson, George Waites, George Burnett, William 

 Robertson, and George Abbs, conceived the idea that it would be 

 at once pleasant, profitable, and advantageous in all ways if they should 

 meet together frequently for the purpose of conversation and discussion 

 on the several branches of natural history, to the study of which they 

 were devoting their time. To this end they instituted " Wednesday 

 evening meetings," for such was the designation by which these 

 friendly gatherings were known. They were held fortnightly, 

 at seven o'clock, at the houses of the members in turn. All 

 unnecessary expense was avoided ; a simple tea was given by the 

 host ; while two things were distinctly forbidden — discussion on 

 political topics and the use of alcohol. Any discovery made by a 

 member was communicated, specimens of interest were exhibited, and 

 the conversation was, for the most part, confined to scientific 

 subjects. The meeting usually broke up about midnight. Naturalists 

 in neighbouring places, in passing through Newcastle, were frequently 

 invited guests, and as such a guest I was, when a young man, once 

 present and enjoyed a delightful evening. Before the party separated 

 the next house of meeting was fixed, and invitations were then given 

 to those who did not themselves entertain ; but it was understood that 

 any member was at liberty to bring with him any naturahst w^ho was 

 temporarily in the town. Joseph Blacklock, R. S. Bowman, and 

 Dr. Embleton became members at a later period, and the last-named 



1 From Canon Norman's Presidential Address to the Museums' Association at 

 Newcastle. 



N 



