300 Manual. 



advancement of a knowledge of the natural sciences, it 

 succeeded in forming a museum embracing collections in 

 the various branches, especially geology, mineralogy and 

 palaeontology, which were for a time regarded as the most 

 extensive and valuable in the country. 



Circumstances induced a majority of the members of 

 the two latter societies to believe that the objects for 

 which they had been incorporated would be promoted by 

 mutual cooperation ; and accordingly, in May, 1824, arti- 

 cles of association were agreed to, providing for the organ- 

 ization of "The Albany Institute." The substance of these 

 articles is embodied in the charter granted by the Legisla- 

 ture, February 27th, 1829. It appears from the several 

 charters above mentioned, copies of which are included in 

 this publication, that the Albany Institute is the legitimate 

 successor of the pioneer series of associations formed and 

 incorporated within this state for the promotion of science; 

 and it will be observed that the annexed roll of members 

 includes many persons of distinction as scholars, as well as 

 in professional and civil life. 



