and whatever jealousy may justly pertain to appropriations of public 
money to private uses can in no way apply to this Museum of Natural 
History... . 
“Tn recalling, with pride, the progress that has already been made 
towards the realization of their plans, the Trustees desire to place on 
record their high appreciation of the services of Professor ALBERT S. 
BICKMoRE, whose zealous devotion to the interests of the institution, and 
untiring industry in carrying out the wishes of the Executive Commit- 
tee, have done much to advance the prosperity of the Museum. 
“We lay here to-day the corner-stone of an edifice which shall be dedi- 
cated forever to the study and the culture of Natural History. These 
massive foundations already securely laid give promise of the most solid 
permanence in the superstructure. The wise forethought of the Park 
Commission, in reserving for the future use of the Museum the 
remainder of Manhattan Square, has provided amply for its continued 
growth. 
“The presence on this occasion of the President of the United States, 
who has kindly consented to assist us in these ceremonies, assures us of 
that public interest which is necessary to sustain the undertaking. 
“The cheering words of the Governor will doubtless lend the coun- 
tenance of the State to support this institution which has been founded 
by its bounty, and finally, the Trustees, in pledging once more their own 
efforts for its success, would bespeak for it that popular favor without 
which it must surely languish and decay.” 
During all the early period Mr. Choate was the 
historian of the Museum. He was the author of the 
First Annual Report (1 870). 
[23] 
