their collections of skins, plants, and geological and mineralogical 
specimens. ® 
These specimens and objects were received, identified, and arranged 
by the Western Academy’s different departments for display. The 
museum was open to the public, but how many non-members visited 
the museum is uncertain. The members enjoyed working with their col- 
lections at the little museum and no doubt appreciated having a place 
to take visiting scientists and friends. 
In addition to its museum, the Western Academy attempted un- 
successfully to establish a botanical garden. To this end, members pur- 
chased a small plot of land at Eighth and Chouteau— then on the outer 
limits of the town. The botanical garden seemed doomed from the start. 
The members failed to get the land cleared and fenced in time for plant- 
ing for at least two years after buying it, and later attempts were half- 
hearted.’ Ultimately, the garden was abandoned. 
The troubles the Western Academy faced initiating a botanical 
garden mostly stemmed from a shortage of funds. From its inception, 
the organization relied on dues and donations from its active members 
for all of its activities, even though it continually attempted to find other 
sources. For example, in 1836-37 the Western Academy made an ap- 
peal to the Missouri Legislature. Missouri’s lawmakers declined to give 
the organization any money, although they did grant it a charter. Hav- 
ing failed at the state level, the members petitioned Congress asking 
for “‘the aid of the General Government, in the purchase of a library 
and instruments, the erection of a suitable building, and the purchase 
of a lot of ground for a botanical garden.’’8 
In their entreaty to Congress, the members stated several reasons 
why their organization should receive government money. They pointed 
out that St. Louis’ geographical position made it the ideal headquarters 
for Western exploration. Furthermore, they argued that their academy 
could oversee the investigation of the vast region more efficiently and 
get the job done more quickly than ‘‘individual exertions.’’9 Despite 
a eloquence, however, no money was forthcoming from Congress, 
either. 
The Western Academy approached another possible source of 
monetary backing through a printed solicitation it distributed to 
“‘the people of St. Louis.’’ This appeal invited interested individuals 
to join the organization and assured all St. Louisans that their financial 
contributions would help create a brave new era of prosperity while 
at the same time ‘‘drawing the attention of the scientific world.’’!° 
Unfortunately, the Western Academy failed to rouse widespread 
community enthusiasm. Public financial support remained slight, and 
the Academy died after only seven years of existence. Its last public 
8 
