The History of the University of Pennsylvania/Preface
Preface.
The author of the following sketch, having been appointed to deliver the anniversary address before the Philomathean Society of the University of Pennsylvania, in the year 1826, was induced to make some investigations into the history of that institution, the results of which were stated, in general terms, on the occasion referred to. In the course of his inquiries, numerous facts presented themselves, which, though not sufficiently important to claim a place in a brief address, appeared to him too much so to be passed over with neglect; and the idea occurred to him, that a history of the University, for the preparation of which he possessed some materials, was due to the relation in which the Institution was placed to the state and city, and might prove interesting, if not serviceable to the community. He accordingly extended his researches, and having accumulated such additional facts and information as appeared essential to the purpose, drew up the following account of the school, and presented it to the Historical Society, as a body peculiarly interested in whatever concerns the past or present affairs of Pennsylvania, and one to whose judgment he was desirous of submitting the question of publication, It is proper to state, that, in the collection of his materials, the author had access to the minutes of the University from its origin, in the form of an Academy, in 1749, to the period at which the history closes. His other sources of information were the works of Dr. Franklin and Dr. William Smith, the periodical journals and newspapers, the public documents of the state, and oral or written communications from gentlemen connected with the school. The reader is requested to bear in mind, that the following historical sketch was prepared in the early part of the year 1827; as otherwise he might be led into error, by considering as applicable to the present time, the references which are frequently made to the period at which the author wrote. It would be a satisfaction to the author, to have it in his power to continue the narration down to the present date, and to conclude with an accurate account of the. school as it now exists; but the engrossing nature of his avocations renders this impossible; and he will be under the necessity of contenting himself with some brief notices, in the way of notes or appendix, in relation to points in which the most interesting changes have occurred.
- Philadelphia, December 20th, 1833.