1887-1888.] 25 



of early associations, and of difficulties overcome. To the 

 younger members I hope the subject may have an equal 

 interest, as to many of them the details of the formation of 

 the Club, and the causes which led to its origin, are to a con- 

 siderable extent unknown. 



Before commencing to the subject proper, we may for a short 

 time consider what had previously been done for the advance- 

 ment of the study of Natural Science in Belfast. Prior to the 

 present century we have, so far as I am aware, no records on 

 the subject, nor can we consider from the extent of Belfast at 

 that time, that much effort had been spent in that direction. 

 We find, however, that the century was but young when a 

 special effort was made, not only to advance the cause of 

 ordinary education, but also to specially further the study of the 

 various branches of Physical and Natural Science. I allude to 

 the establishment of the Belfast Academical Institution in the 

 year 1807. As many changes have taken place since its 

 establishment, the circumstances of its origin are but little 

 known to the present generation. From the published report 

 of a Committee, submitted and adopted at a meeting of the 

 friends of the intended Institution, held in the Exchange 

 Rooms, on 22nd September, 1807, under the presidency of 

 Edward May, jun., Esq., Sovereign of Belfast, it appears that 

 the Institution was to combine not only a primary, or school 

 department, and a higher or collegiate department, with, 

 amongst others, Professors "of Natural Philosophy, Chemistry, 

 Botany, and Agriculture, but in addition (I quote from the 

 report) " That the benefits of the College may be more 

 extensively diffused, it is expedient, that in addition to the 

 private lectures to be attended by the students, a public course 

 of popular lectures shall be delivered on those subjects which 

 are most conducive to the improvement of the Agriculture, 

 Arts, and Manufactures of the country. A Library and 

 Museum shall be attached to the College for the use of students 

 and subscribers. The Museum shall be set apart for the 

 reception and exhibition of Natural Curiosities, specimens of 

 Fossils, Models of useful Instruments, Machines, Engines, and 

 other articles of a similar nature." 



