PliOCEEDINGS 



ESSEX INSTITUTE 



PRELIMINARY REMARKS. 



The Essex Institute was formed by the union of the 

 Essex Historical and the Essex County Natural History 

 Societies. To effect this end, the two societies held several 

 meetings, during che autumn of 1847. A joint committee 

 was appointed to draft a plan to serve as the basis of 

 organization. The plan offered by the committee was ac- 

 cepted by the societies, at a meeting held on January 14, 

 1848. The Act of Incorporation from the Legislature was 

 obtained in February of the same year ; and on the first of 

 March following, by its acceptance, the Essex Institute 

 was organized. Daniel A. White being^ chosen Chair- 

 man, and J. G. Waters Secretary. A committee to 

 prepare a Constitution and By-Laws was appointed. — 

 On the 8th March these were adopted. 



Thus organized, the Institute consists of three depart- 

 ments — the Historical ; having for its object the collection 

 and preservation of whatever relates to the topography, 

 antiquities, civil and ecclesiastical history of Essex County, 



ESSEX INST, proceed, L 



