April 21, 1879. 



Dr. Engelmann, Pres't, in the chair. Nine members present. 



The sculptor Macdonald presented a plaster model of the "Ser- 

 pent mound" of Adams Co., Ohio. This mound is described in 

 the work of Squier and Davis. Mr. Macdonald was commis- 

 sioned by Squier to execute a model for exhibition at the Centen- 

 nial Exposition, and had retained a copy for himself, which was 

 donated to the Academy. 



On inotion of Mr. Todd, the thanks of the Academy were voted 

 to Mr. Macdonald. 



Mr. Nipher exhibited specimens of vulcanized fibre. 



Dr. Engelmann stated that in regard to the popular idea that 

 tornadoes were more common of late years than formerly, the 

 most that can be said is that they are more generally observed 

 now than when the country was more sparsely settled, and such 

 observations receive at once a wider publicity than in former 

 days. He had seen tornado tracks in great numbers in the woods 

 of south Missouri and Arkansas forty-five years ago. 



Mr. Nipher introduced the following resolution, which was 

 passed : 



W/iereas it is in harmony with the objects for the promotion of which 

 this Academy was founded, to encourage enterprises which will increase 

 our knowledge of the physics of the globe; therefore, 



Resolved, That this Academy warmlj commends Capt. Howgate's plan 

 of Polar colonization, and urges upon Congress to pass the bill making 

 provision for the expenses of the project. 



May 5, 1879. 



Dr. Engelmann in the chair. Ten members present. 



Mr. Nipher read a paper on the tornado at Collinsville, April 

 14th. The paper was referred to the Publication Committee. 



Dr. Engelmann remarked on the continued dry weather since 

 April 14th, that, according to the Missouri Weather Service, it 

 covered the eastern half of the State. The frost of the early part 

 of April did more damage than was done by the April frost of 

 four years ago, as vegetation is further advanced. At present, 

 by reason of the warm weather of the latter part of the month, 

 the general blooming of fruit is not backward, although im- 

 perfect and irregular. 



The President introduced Mr. O. Pavy, who made some re- 



