No. 151.J 211 



P. S. The " Van Schaick Prcmiura^' of 1000 dollars, generous- 

 ly given by Myndert Van Schaick, Esq., of this city, to be bestow- 

 ed by the American Institute in premiums of $100, for ten succes- 

 sive years, will be awarded as follows: 



For the best piece of silk stuff, 27 inches in width and 60 yards 

 in length, manufactured in the United States within the year, from 

 native silk, $50. 



For the best and greatest quantity of American silk, uniformly 

 reeled, not less than 20 pounds, $20. 



For the best sewings, of any color, made entirely from American 

 silk, not less than 10 lbs., $10. 



For the best peanut cocoons, not less than one bushel, $10. And 

 to each of the successful competitors the " Van Schaick Medal." 

 Other premiums on silk will be bestowed, as usual, by the Institute. 

 All silk culturists and manufacturers are invited to send their speci- 

 mens as early as the 1st, 2d or 3d of October. 



There were many delegates from other states, and a large number 

 from New-York in attendance. 



On motion. Gen. H. A. S. Dearborn, of Massachusetts, was ap- 

 pointed temporary Chairman, and Mr. D. J. Browne was chosen 

 Secretary, pro tempore. 



On motion of Col. Clark, a committee, consisting of Messrs. Law- 

 rence, Wakeman and Meigs, was appointed to nominate officers for 

 the Convention. 



By request, the names of delegates present were handed to the 

 secretary. 



During the absence of this committee, the chairman. 

 Gen. Dearborn, rose and said, " I feel much honored by the sta- 

 tion in which you have placed me. It is no ordinary compliment to 

 be selected to preside over so important a body as this Convention. 

 I felt that I was especially honored when I entered this hall, devo- 

 ted as it is to the improvement and elevation of American mechan- 

 ics. I cannot but feel proud of the country and city whose laboring 

 men enjoy such advantages; here the poor apprentice has the know- 

 ledge of the past and of the present within his reach; books and 

 lectures are in his hands and before his mind. It is pnly within the 



