142 Cincimiati Society of Natural History. 



REPORT ON THE CINCINNATI LYCEUM OF 

 , NATURAL HISTORY,* 



Bv H. P. Smith, B. Sc, Custodian Cincinnati SocIET^• of 

 Natural History. 



Executive Board Cincinnati Society of l\atiiral History : 

 Gentlemen : 



I have the honor to present herewith my first 

 report on the condition and plans of the Cincinnati Lyceum of 

 Natural History. 



The Lyceum was organized Jan. 8, 1887, by authority of the 

 Executive Board of the Society, granted to the custodian. 



It is the object of the Lyceum to bring together the young 

 l^eople of Cincinnati and vicinity, who take an interest in subjects 

 relating to natural history, and by maint-aining an active working 

 organization, to enable them to enjoy those benefits which arise 

 from unity of purpose and eftbrt. 



From the date of organization to the close of the school 

 year, one hundred and thirty-three members were enrolled. 

 Pupils from the public and private schools, and representing the 

 intermediate and high school grades. 



In the work of the Lyceum during the year, the subjects of 

 Zoology and Botany were taken up, and by means of short talks, 

 illustrated by specimens, it was attempted to present the funda- 

 mental ideas of these subjects in such a manner as to be easily 

 understood and appreciated by the members. 



Meetings were held each week, on Saturday morning and 

 afternoon, and the attendance at these meetings — especially the 

 morning session, was very satisfactory throughout the year. 



It is especially desired in the work of the members, to 

 awaken an interest in the study of the natural history of this 

 locality, and to this end excursions to the country have been 

 taken from time to time, for the purpose of collecting specimens 

 and becoming acquainted with methods of obtaining and preserv- 

 ing, as well as studying them. 



The first general excursion was to Batavia Junction, on the 

 Little Miami Railroad, on May 14. About forty members par- 



*Printed for information to members in advance of presentation to the Executive 

 Board. 



