POLYTECHNIC ASSOCIATION. 



The by-laws of the American Institute, authorize the formation of a 

 Scientific Club, for the discussion of subjects, relative to manufactures, 

 arts and sciences, to be composed of members of the Institute, and to be 

 under the supervision of the Board of Science and the Arts. The Poly- 

 technic Association, was organized under this provision of the by-laws. Its 

 proceedings are conducted much in the manner of those of the Farmers' 

 Club. There are no restrictions upon the debates, other than those of par- 

 liamentary courtesy. Its discussions embrace the widest range, call out 

 the most varied talent and not unfrequently elicit valuable contributions to 

 science. Many of the subjects discussed, being capable of mechanical or 

 chemical illustration, and affording, as they frequently do, opportunities 

 for vigorous debate, the proceedings are interesting to the public as well 

 as to the student and men of science. The meetings are public and free 

 to all. 



It may be proper to remark, that the dicta of members of the club are 

 not to be taken as the settled doctrines of the Institute. Until passed upon 

 by the latter or endorsed or approved by the committee on arts and sciences, 

 the conclusions of the Polytechnic Association acquire none of the force or 

 validity of an official act of the American Institute. 



THOMAS McELRATH, Correspoiiding Secretary. 



American Institute, Aprils 1860. 



PROCEEDINGS OF THE POLYTECHNIC ASSOCIATION. 



American Institute, Polytechnic Association, 



May 4:th, 1859. 



Professor Mason, Chairman. Henry Meigs, Esq., Secretary. 



The Secretary read the following extract from the " Londen Year Book 

 of Facts," for 1859, viz: 



" combustibles made pire-proop." 



A wonderful discovery is recorded in the French papers. M. Carteron, 

 has invented a paint which renders everything which it is applied to, 

 fire-proof. In presence of the Emperor and Empress, experiments were 

 made, proving its efficacy. Fire was applied to ladies' dresses prepared 



