 | Board of Visitors minutes June 27, 1887 |  |
June 27th 1887.
The Visitors of the University met thereat in annual
session on the 27th day of June 1887.
In the absence of a Rector and Rector pro. tem , Hon.
A. H. H. Stuart, Rector and Genl Wm H. Payne, Rector pro
tem. both having resigned as Visitors since the last meeting
of the Board of Visitors, Dr W. C. N. Randolph, as chairman
of the Executive Committee, called the meeting to order, and
on motion of Mr Wm A. Stuart, he was chosen to preside.
Present. Holmes Conrad, J. L. Marye, R. W. Martin, R. L.
Parrish, W. C. N. Randolph, Wm A. Stuart and E. C. Venable,
also the new members, viz:
B. P. Noland of Loudoun County, vice Genl Wm H. Payne,
resigned, and
George Perkins of the town of Charlottesville, vice
Hon. A. H. H. Stuart, resigned.
The chairman stated the first order of business to be
the election of a Rector, whereupon Hon. John L. Marye was
placed in nomination and unanimously elected Rector. On
motion Dr Randolph was by a unanimous vote elected Rector
pro. tem. The Rector then took the chair and the business
of the Board was proceeded with.
Messrs Noland & Perkins filed certificates of their
qualification as Visitors which on motion were ordered to be
spread upon the minutes, which is done as follows:
Virginia:
At a county court held for Fauquier County at the Court
B. P. Noland who has been duly appointed and commissioned
by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia a
member of the Board of Visitors of the University of Virginia
for the term ending , this day appeared
in Court and took and subscribed the oath of office
and the antiduelling oath required by law.
A copy, teste,
R. H. Downman Clerk
At a court held for Albemarle County June 6th 1887.
George Perkins, having been appointed by the Governor
of this Commonwealth, a member of the Board of Visitors of
the University of Virginia, is permitted to qualify as such
Visitor, and he thereupon took and subscribed the oaths required
by law.
A Copy, Teste,
F. W. Page, D. C.
On motion, the Secretary was requested to notify the Chairman
of the Faculty, Prof. Venable, that the Board was prepared
to receive such official communications as he desired
to submit for its consideration, which was done, and the
Chairman presented to the Board
The Annual Report of the Faculty & accompanying documents
and The Annual Report of the Proctor & Superintendent
of Grounds & Buildings.
The Rector appointed the following Standing Committees:
Finance, Miller & Observatory Fund.
Messrs Conrad, Stuart, Venable & Randolph.
Grounds, Buildings & Boarding Houses.
Messrs Stuart, Noland & Parrish.
Library & Apparatus:
Messrs Parrish, Martin & Perkins.
Conduct of Schools & Examination of Students.
Messrs Randolph, Venable & Perkins.
Infirmary, Health, Sewerage & Drainage.
Messrs Martin, Noland & Conrad.
The Board ordered the report of the Faculty to be read
which was done, whereupon on motion, it was ordered that the
various subjects presented by the report be referred to the
appropriate Committees of the Board for consideration and report.
The Executive Committee, through its chairman, Dr Randolph,
submitted its annual report which reads as follows.
"University June 27th 1887
Report of Executive Committee to the Rector and Visitors of
the University of Virginia
Gentlemen.
On the 15 of October 1886 the Executive Committee met
at University.
In accordance with a resolution of the Board of Visitors,
the faculty reported to the Executive Committee a plan for
the establishment of a School of Pharmacy in the University
which the Committee approved and adopted. The School has
been established. Owing to the fact that it was begun after
the session opened the attendance on it has been small. As
it is one of the professional courses, the Committee fixed
total fees in the school, if the whole course is taken in one
year are $135.
The Faculty also submitted a plan for the establishment of
a dispensary in Charlottesville, The plan met the approbation
of the Committee and the dispensary has been established and
proved a decided success both in the good results to the community
and the students of medicine. The plan of work of both
the School of Pharmacy and the dispensary are fully recorded in
the proceedings of the Committee, to which the Board of Visitors
are referred for any further information desired. At the suggestion
of the Committee the Proctor has funded into 6% bonds
payable at the option of the University the 8% bonds of the
Corporation whose payment was at the pleasure of the University
authorities.
The Proctor was also directed, if possible, to retire and
cancel the bonds of the University held by the Miller Board for
the sum of $10,000. advanced by that Board in construction of
cases for the specimens in the Brooks Museum. This action was
taken because the University does not justly owe this debt as
it has been paid to the Miller Board, who in view of the advance
to the University, paid this Corporation a lessened revenue
yearly until the sum advanced was equalled.
The Committee desiring to prevent the presentation of Mills
to the Board of Visitors for unauthorized expenditures by members
of the Faculty and officers of the University, ordered that no
expenditures of money be made on account of the University except
such as shall be made by the Proctor upon the order of the Board
of Visitors and that no individual shall be allowed to make any
changes in property belonging to the Corporation except under the
authority of the Proctor & with the approval of the Board of Visitors.
At the meeting of the Committee on the 13th of May, the
bond of the Proctor, Major G. Peyton, in the sum of $20,000
was received examined and accepted. His surities are S. V.
Southall & R. F. Mason. The bond of the Bank of Albemarle
for the sum of $60,000 to protect the deposits of the University
was received, examined and accepted, the surities in
the bond are Messrs R. F. Mason, C. D. Fishburn, W. E. Norris,
Jas B. Wood, R. H. Wood, L. T. Hanckel, S. V. Southall,
G. Peyton, N. M. Page & Jas D. Jones, whose combined wealth
is represented to be about $150,000. This bond is in due
form & was authorized by the Stockholders of the Bank of
Albemarle in regular meeting." (These two bonds are copied
in the minute book of the Executive Committee)
"Dr Randolph Chairman of this Committee has with the
consent of the Committee and upon the advice of the Rector
Hon. A. H. H. Stuart and Professors Minor and Venable, given
permission to Hon James W. Austin, who was the first Executor
under the will of the late Arthur W. Austin to resume the
executorship without security.
The Committee present with this report the letters of
Hon. A. H. H. Stuart, Prof. Venable and copy of letter of
Mr Austin.
In view of the fact that the law of the Board of Visitors
stipulates that the professors shall be elected for one
year when first elected, the committee suggest that Professors
Towles and Dabney be now elected permanent professors
of their respective schools, their terms of service to be at
the pleasure of the Board.
The Committee suggest that the bond of the Bank of Albemarle
for the security of the deposits of the funds of the
University be kept by the Chairman of the Faculty.
The Executive Committee met pursuant to law at the University
on 24th of June 1887.
They have received and examined the reports of the Faculty
and Proctor which are to be commended for their clear
and concise statement of the condition of the University.
The Committee call the especial attention of the Board
to the information given in the Report of the Faculty concerning
the number of students attending lectures in the
University during the present and past sessions.
It is very apparent that the equipment here is greatly
in excess of number of students, and that the usefulness of
the University would be much promoted if the Board of Visitors,
in its wisdom, is able to adopt any means of making
known the merits of the institution to the large number of
young men in the section of country tributary to the University.
The Committee commend to the Board the suggestions
of the Faculty with regard to renewed efforts for patronage
from the States of Kentucky and West Virginia.
The Committee refer the Board to the reports of the
Faculty and Proctor with regard to loss by fire of part of
our Medical Hall.
The Committee has heard of no unusual occurrences of
any kind during the past session worthy of report to the
Board.
With a view to diminishing the work of the Board in its
full meeting the committee have carefully read the Faculty
report and submit herewith resolutions drawn to cover suggestions
made by the Faculty about which there was no difference
of opinion among the members of the Committee.
The recommendations of the Proctor are for the most
part general in their character and are left to the consideration
of the full Board.
Since the last meeting of the Board of Visitors Prof.
Page has resigned the Professorship of the School of Agriculture
etc and Professor Wheeler has resigned the Professorship
of the School of Greek. The Committee regret to
state that Professor Wheeler was forced to take this step
owing to a failure of his health."
W. C. N. Randolph,
Chairman Ex. Comee
Edwd C. Venable.
This report of the Executive Committee was read to the
Board and after consideration of the same on motion.
Resolved, that the report of the Executive Committee
dated June 27th 1887, is received, approved and adopted together
with its recommendations.
Resolved, that the Secretary of this Board be requested
to procure an official copy of the last will and testament
of Arthur W. Austin decd, the expense thereof to be paid by
the Proctor.
Resolved, that the Executive Committee be instructed
to inquire into and ascertain through counsel, or otherwise,
by the late Arthur W. Austin may be commuted into
money and reduced into possession, and that they report the
same to the Board as early as possible.
Resolved, that the action of the Executive Committee in
assenting to the resumption of the Trustee-ship of the Austin
Estate by J. W. Austin, Esq without security is hereby confirmed,
Mr Austin having been the trustee appointed by the
will of the testator, his brother, and he having only surrendered
it on account of bad health.
On motion the Board adjourned to meet tomorrow morning
at 9 o'clock.
Jas D. Jones,
Secretary.
Jno. L Marye
Rector
University of Virginia,
June 28th 1887.
The Board met in pursuance of adjournment on yesterday.
Present. The Rector and same members as on yesterday.
The Chairman of the Faculty sent into the Board the following
documents:
1 School reports
2 Report of Profs Fontaine & Stone on Special Practical Work
3 Librarian's Report
4 Batch of printed documents
7 List of Publications by members of the Faculty
8 Copy of Inventory of Estate of Arthur W. Austin, decd,
rendered Probate Court by James W. Austin admr d. b. n.
June 3d 1887.9 Petition Rev. M. D. Conway for leave to make copies of
the Edmund Randolph letters in the Lee correspondence,
in the University Library.10 Communication from a Committee of ladies of the University
new Chapel Association, petitioning that old University
ell be granted them.
All of which papers, were on motion, referred to the
appropriate Committees for their consideration and report
thereon.
Dr Martin Chairman of the Committee on Infirmary, Health,
Sewerage & Drainage, on behalf of the Committee, submitted the
following report, which upon being read and considered was on
motion received, approved and adopted, together with is [its?]
recommendations:
To the Rector & Visitors of the University,
Gentlemen,
Your Committee notes with pleasure the report of the
Faculty in regard to the improved sanitary condition of the
Grounds & Buildings at the University, less sickness having
occurred than formerly, due as the Faculty thinks, to improved
sewerage, abundant water-supply, regular & efficient
police of the grounds, & better drainage.
Your Commee respectfully recommend, that the improvements
proposed last year and not yet completed, be finished
as early as practicable.
Respectfully submitted
R. W. Martin
B. P. Noland
Holmes Conrad.
On the application of ladies of the University, representing
the New Chapel.
Resolved, that the Proctor be directed to deliver to
the Committee representing the ladies, the old Bell, now in
his possession, in order that it may be sold by them & the
proceeds applied to the purchase of a new bell, and if there
be any charge against the ladies in regard to the old bell,
that the Proctor cancel the same.
Resolved, that permission be granted to Mr Moncure D.
Conway to make a copy of any manuscripts on papers at the
University by, or relating to the late Hon. Edmund Randolph
and provided that all such copies be made in the Library and
under the supervision of the Librarian.
Resolved, that the Proctor be authorized to erect new
Book Cases in the Library as needed.
Resolved, that the sum of $1500. be appropriated from
the general fund for repairs & improvements to aid in the
erection of a Lecture room for the Professor of Anatomy, to
be located and erected according to plans submitted to the
Board by Prof. Towles, and that the use of $500. in addition
be allowed temporarily from the Insurance money in the hands
of the Proctor, to further aid in the erection of said building.
The Library Committee submitted their report which was
read, approved and adopted, and reads as follows:
Gentlemen,
The Library Committee respectfully report that they have
examined the report of James B. Baker, Librarian; The list of
Publications by members of the Faculty from July 1886 to June
1887; and the communication of Moncure D. Conway, Esq, asking
permission to copy and use "any manuscripts or papers at the
University of Va by or relating to the late Hon. Edmund Randolph"
and they recommend that the two resolutions accompanying
this report be adopted. (The 2 resolutions here referred
to are the last two on the next preceding page of this book)
The following resolutions numbered from 1 to 12, inclusive
were submitted by the Executive Committee and were
drawn to cover suggestions made by the Faculty report, and
were read and adopted, seriatim.
1. Resolved, that in future no student who received a degree,
be allowed to receive at the same session, a lower degree of
same order on a course included in the course of the degree
received by him.
2. Resolved, that the managers of Messes be required to pay
for Dormitories the same rents that are now required of Keepers
of regular Boarding Houses.
3. Resolved, that the Proctor be authorized to supervise
the employment of all servants engaged about hotels and dormitories
and to prescribe a badge to be worn by said servants.
4. Resolved, that the Proctor pay to the Faculty Committee
on External relations the sum of Fifty Dollars to be expended
in promoting the work of said Committee.
5. Resolved, that the Proctor be authorized to put up on
the floor of the Library a Brass Tablet, suitably inscribed,
and costing not more than Fifty Dollars, on which Tablet shall
be recorded all important donations to the Library.
6. Resolved, that a sum not exceeding Fifty Dollars be appropriated
by the Proctor to the payment of the clerical and
postal expenses necessary to complete the manuscript of the
Decennial Catalogue.
7. Resolved, that Professor John B. Minor be relieved of the
duty of compiling the laws of the University, at his own request,
and that the sum of Fifty Dollars be appropriated to
defray the necessary clerical expenses of the codification
of the laws of the University, which codification it is understood
will be done by the Faculty and submitted, in manuscript
form to the Board of Visitors at its next annual meeting.
8. Resolved, that the sum of Ten Dollars be appropriated to
the erection of a bracket in the Library suitable for the
bust of the late Prof. Wm B. Rogers, and that the Proctor
cause such bracket to be constructed and put up.
9. Resolved, that the Professor of the School of Engineering
be authorized to employ an assistant instructor at a cost
not exceeding Three hundred dollars; provided, the number of
students of the said school shall reach twenty five.
10. Resolved, that the Summer School of Hebrew be given free
use of public rooms and dormitories under the direction of
the Chairman of the Faculty.
11. Resolved, that in the event that the income of the University
shall exceed the sum of $89,400. the following appropriations
be made, to be paid pro rata out of the surplus; to
wit $500. for advertising, $193.59 to the Library Fund for
the purpose of returning to that fund the amount expended in
providing cases for the Austin collection of books, $400.
for defraying the costs of the publication of the Decennial
Catalogue, and $250. for purchasing a Polariscope for the
Chemical Department. And in the event that said surplus shall
be insufficient to accomplish the purposes indicated in this
resolution the Faculty be authorized to expend said surplus
about such of the said purposes as they may deem most appropriate.
12. Resolved, that the post graduate student shall pay the
same tuition that is required of the under graduates in the
corresponding schools, tuition to Virginian students being
free in the Academical schools named in the statute, except
that the students in the post graduate course of the Chemical
Department shall have graduated in both General and Analytical
Chemistry, and shall pay a uniform fee of Fifty Dollars
for tuition.
Geo B. Marshall owning an Estate adjoining the University
grounds, west of the Observatory, and desiring the privilege
of passing through the University land in hauling fire
wood to the University or to Charlottesville.
Resolved, that the privilege be allowed him by the Executive
Committee, under such restrictions as they may deem proper,
but this privilege is to be revocable by the order of the
Board of Visitors, or its Executive Committee at any time without
notice.
The Committee on Grounds, Buildings and Boarding Houses
submitted the following report which was read, approved and
adopted, with its recommendations.
Your Committee on Grounds, Buildings & Boarding Houses
respectfully report.
1. The recommendation of the Faculty in their report (Sec. 8)
respecting the erection of a permanent lecture room for the
Professor of Anatomy, is approved. And your Committee recommend
an appropriation of $1500. from the general fund for
repairs and improvements, to aid in the erection of such a
lecture room, and that the Proctor allow the temporary use
of $500. of the Insurance money on the contents of the Medical
Hall, to aid in the erection of the said lecture room,
the estimated cost of which is $2000.
Your committee further recommend that the plan and location
proposed by Prof. Towles be adopted.
2. Your committee recommend that in respect to the application
of Dinwiddie, Oberdoffer & Connell, set out in the
Proctor's report, no action be taken by the Board of Visitors.
Your committee have doubts as to the power of the
Board to comply with the request of the applicants.
3. In regard to the proposition of the Proctor, that the
Board of Visitors & the Miller Board, should occupy rooms 50
& 52 on East Range your Committee recommend approval.
4. The letter of Prof. Venable touching the necessity of a
small enclosure around the recently erected monument to the
great Jefferson, was referred to your Committee, and we recommend
that the Chairman of the Faculty furnish the Proctor
with a plan for such enclosure and that the Proctor be directed
to carry out the same, & that the expense be defrayed
out of funds of the University, not otherwise appropriated.
5. Respecting the change of the East Entrance to the University
grounds, recommended by the Proctor, Your Committee
regard the subject as worthy of consideration by a Committee
of the whole Board after a careful inspection of the changes
proposed on paper, as well as on the ground.
6. Your Committee herewith return a lengthy communication
from Prof. Smith addressed to Dr Randolph by Earnest Bowditch,
Esq of Boston.
These communications are in reference to the water supply
at the University. The authors of these papers differ
as to the remedy for the soils complained of, and your Committee
not being experts in such matters, recommend that the
subject be referred to the Executive Committee, with discretionary
powers to adopt or reject any plan now or hereafter
proposed in respect to this matter.
7. George B. Marshall owning an Estate adjoining the University
lands west of the Observatory, and desiring the privilege
of passing through the bounds of the University, in hauling
recommend the passage of the following resolution. (For
this resolution as adopted see page 82 [71] of this book.)
8. Respecting the application of the Charlottesville Street
Railway Company Your Committee approve the resolution proposed
by the Executive Committee, refusing permission to
said company to enter the University grounds.
The Chairman of the Faculty having communicated to the
Board the fact that Joseph L. Jarman had successfully complied
with all the conditions required to obtain the Miller
Scholarship, in connection with the Agricultural Department.
Resolved, that the Scholarship referred to be conferred
on Mr Jarman.
Mr. Conrad, Chairman of the Finance Committee submitted
their report which was read, and on motion was received, approved
and adopted, and reads as follows:
The Finance Committee respectfully submit the following
report:
1. The receipts for the year ending June 1st 1888 are estimated
at $89,476.17 which it is recommended shall be appropriated
and expended as follows:
| Salaries of Instructors | |
| Professors, 18 at $3000. | $54,000.00 |
| Assistant in Mathematics & Natural Philosophy |
1,300. |
| Assistants in Ancient & Modern Languages 2 $600 |
1,200. |
| Demonstrator of Anatomy | 500. |
| Salaries of Officers | |
| Chairman | 500. |
| Proctor | 1,600. |
| Librarian & Secretary of the Faculty | 750. |
| Secretary of the Board | 150. |
| Commissioner of Accounts | 100. |
| Janitor | 600. |
| Repairs & Improvements | |
| Maintenance of Grounds & Buildings | 3,000. |
| New Anatomical Lecture Room | 2,000. |
| Interest & Sinking Fund | 7,220. |
| Current Expenses | |
| Library [Gordon Fund 300, Madison Fund 156, Genl Appr 44] |
500. |
| Observatory [Balance of income after paying the Director] |
1,610. |
| Infirmary [equivalent to receipts] | 1,800. |
| Catalogues & other Advertising | 1,000. |
| Printing blanks | 150. |
| Diplomas | 400. |
| Fuel | 400. |
| Gas | 600. |
| Labor | 1,000. |
| Night Watchman | 300. |
| Chairman's Messenger, to act also as day watch |
300. |
| Janitor of Museum | 180. |
| Commutation of rents to 4 professors | 1,200 |
| Contingent Fund | 1,200 |
| Apparatus | |
| Nat1 Philosophy $300, Chemistry $300. | 700. |
| Nat1 Hist. $50, Engineering $50 | |
| Anatomical Fund | 100. |
| Special Appropriations | |
| External Relations | 50. |
| Decennial Catalogue | 50. |
| Codification of Enactments | 50. |
| Tablet in Library see p 80 [70] | 25. |
| Bracket for Bust of Prof. Rogers | 10. |
| Miller Scholarship | 250. |
| Reserve of Miller Funds for reorganizing Ag1 Dept |
4,500. |
| Surplus | 71. |
| 89,366. |
The Committee recommend that the salary of the Commissioner
of accounts be increased to the sum of $150.
Resptly submitted
Holmes Conrad
On motion the Board adjourned to meet tomorrow morning
at 9 o'clock.
Jno. L. Marye
Rector
Jas D. Jones,
Secretary.
University of Va
June 29th 1887.
The Board met pursuant to adjournment on yesterday.
Present, the same members as on yesterday.
Prof. Page's annl report in his department was handed
in also the report from the school of Analytical and Agricultural
Chemistry. Referred.
The application of Prof. Dunnington for the use of Dormitories
No. 50 & 52 on East Range during the summer presented
& referred to Commee on Grounds & Buildings.
Mrs Prof. Page's application to be allowed to occupy
their Pavillion the ensuing year, presented & referred to
same Committee.
Prof. Thornton's application to have assigned to him a
Ravilion presented and referred to same, Commee.
Dr Randolph of the joint sub-committee of this Board and
of the Miller Board submitted the following report which upon
being read on motion was received, approved and adopted, together
with its recommendations.
"To joint Committee on Agricultural School etc.
Gentlemen:
Your Committee recommend that the Agricultural School
remain as it now is for the next twelve months. That at the
end of the year, June 1888, a professor of Agriculture, who
shall be a Scientific Biologist be elected, with a salary of
$3,000 and a house, & that the Agricultural School be then
reorganized in such a manner & to such extent as may be deemed
advisable, after conference with said professor.
That $2000. be paid out of the income of the Miller fund,
for the coming year, to the Board of Visitors, to be applied
to the payment of the professors connected with the Agricultural
School, to preserve the farm in good condition, to
& publish the Meterological Observatories & to pay the
Scholarships awarded out of the said fund, and that all of
the stock & provender belonging to the Miller Board, be sold
as well as the growing crops, as soon as practicable and the
proceeds paid over to the Treasurer of the said Board.
Respectfully
W. C. N. Randolph,
John M. White.
The same report was adopted by the Miller Board.
Resolved, that the salary of the Assistant in the School
of Modern Languages be increased from $600. to $800. In view
of this increase, that the assistant be required to devote
his whole time to the duties to be assigned to him by the
Prof. of Modern Languages, and that the Prof. of Modern Languages
be furnished with a copy of this resolution.
On motion the Board adjourned to meet tomorrow morning
at 10 o'clock.
Jas D. Jones,
Secretary.
Jho. L. Marye
Rector
June 30th 1887.
The Board met this morning pursuant to adjournment on
yesterday.
Present, the same members as on yesterday.
The Committee on Grounds, Buildings & Boarding Houses
reported the following resolutions for the consideration of
the Board, numbered from 1 to 4 inclusive, which upon being
no 3. ordered to lie over for further consideration at the
next meeting of the Board.
1. Resolved, that Prof. F. P. Dunnington be allowed the privilege
of using Dormitories No 52 & 50 adjoining his dwelling
should he need them, for the accomodation of his guests at the
University, during a portion of the ensuing vacation, say July
& August. Adopted.
2. Resolved, that if in the opinion of the Proctor, the finances
of the institution will admit of it, and the consent
of the Insurances Companies be obtained, that two wooden kitchens,
outside of the dormitory buildings on Carr's Hill be
erected, and the sum necessary to pay therefor not exceeding
$150. each, is hereby appropriated, payable out of funds not
otherwise appropriated. Adopted.
3. Resolved, that when the house now occupied by Prof. Wheeler
shall be vacated that the same be assigned to Prof. Venable unless
he shall prefer his present location, and that Prof. Wm M.
Thornton be assigned to whichever of the two houses may not be
occupied by Prof. Venable. Ordered to lie over for consideration
at the next meeting of the Board.
4. Resolved that the house now occupied by the family of Dr
Page, may continue to be so occupied, until in the opinion of
this Board, it shall become necessary to otherwise occupy it.
Adopted.
Chairman.
Resolved, that the Secretary of the Miller Board be and
he is hereby requested to take charge of the property referred
to by Dr Page in his last Report and especially indicated in a
list thereto appended, a copy of which Report was furnished
said Miller Board.
Resolved, that the present occupants of the Boarding houses
at the University be allowed to continue to occupy them for the
ensuing year, on the terms of the year just expired.
Resolved, that the Executive Committee be empowered, if
in their judgment after consultation with the Faculty, it be
deemed expedient, to publish in each catalogue one graduates
examination of each school in the University.
The following resolution was offered and on motion was
ordered to be recorded and lie over for consideration at the
next meeting of the Board:
Resolved, that in the list of students published in the
Catalogue the name of the last previously attended college or
school be inserted, the names of colleges in capitals, & the
schools in small letters.
The Committee on Conduct of Schools and Examination of
Students submitted the following report, which upon being read
was on motion received, approved & adopted:
To the Rector & Board of Visitors of the University of Va
Gentlemen
Your Commee on Schools and the Conduct of Examinations
of Students respectfully reports as follows.
We have carefully examined the written Statements of
Eighteen (18) Professors as to the management of their respective
under their charge, the examinations had, the attendance
of the Professors etc. and find, from this evidence,
that the duties of the several Professors have been faithfully
discharged, the work of the students satisfactorily
done in the main, and the general success of the year encouraging.
The Report of Prof. Stone, Director of the Leander McCormick
Observatory is an elaborate account of observations
made by him, and contains a statement of publications emanating
from his chair which are, doubtless, of great value to
the scientific world.
In accordance with the request of Prof. Page, Your Committee
suggests that some one be appointed to whom the property
on the Experimental Farm may be delivered.
In order that the Board may form an intelligent idea of
the proficiency of the students, and the scope and character
of the instruction afforded by the several chairs, it is suggested
that the members of the Faculty be requested to furnish
to the Board hereafter at the annual meeting copies of
the Final Examinations held by them said copies to be delivered
in sealed envelopes, and, after inspection to be returned
sealed-up, to the Several Professors.
We herewith return the several reports submitted to us.
Respectfully
W. C. N. Randolph
Chairman
A written communication to the Board was received from
Prof. James M. Garnett of this date relating to the conduct
of the School of the English Language and Literature, whereupon,
On motion of Dr W. C. N. Randolph it was ordered that
said communication be referred to a special committee to be
appointed by the Rector.
The Rector appointed Messers Parrish, Randolph and Stuart
as members of said committee.
The Special Committee raised to consider and report upon
the communication of Professor Garnett made the following report.
University of Virginia
June 30th 1887
To the Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia:
The Committee to which was referred the letter of Prof.
James M. Garnett of this date in the following words and figures,
to wit:
June 30, 1887."
Hon. Rector & Visitors of the University of Va.
Gentlemen:
Having understood that your Hon. body is still unsatisfied
as to the reconsideration of the resolution adopted with
respect to the School of English, which reconsideration I requested
in my statement already submitted, I have the honor
to request that the matter be laid over until the next annual
examine more carefully into the objections made as to the
conduct of the School, & I can have the opportunity of removing
any that in your judgment, may really exist. In the
mean time, I should be obliged for any suggestions as to
change in the course of instruction, which I shall endeavor
to carry out. I have in my statement indicated certain
changes in the position of this school with respect to the
degrees which would greatly benefit the school, if adopted
by your Hon. body. I feel confident, that under such circumstances
all objections would be satisfactorily removed.
I desire to say further that if, at the close of that
time, these objections on the part of your Hon body still
continue, & I am so officially informed, I shall place my
resignation at your disposal, for I do not desire to hold a
chair in any institution where, the authorities are dissatisfied
with my conduct of it.
Yours very respectfully
Professor of the English
Language & Literature."
beg leave to report that they have considered the said letter,
and they recommend that Prof. Garnett be retained for the present
in the chair of English Language and Literature, upon the
express stipulation that if he shall occupy said chair at the
next annual meeting of the Board, he shall then tender to the
Board his resignation of said chair if the Board shall intimate
by such resignation. The Committee would further rec-
ommend that the Board shall not interfere with Prof. Garnett's
course of instruction, but that in future, as in the past, he
have full liberty of prescribing and teaching such a course,
in his department, as in his judgment shall best promote the
interest of the University.
The Committee further recommend that the Secretary be
instructed to deliver a copy of this report to Prof. James
M. Garnett, and to forward to the Governor of Virginia, for
his information a copy of the report, together with a copy of
the resolution referred to in the communication of Prof. Garnett.
R. L. Parrish
W. C. N. Randolph
W. A. Stuart
A majority of the Committee, viz Messrs Randolph and Conrad,
appointed at the previous meeting of the Board to consider
and report a Plan for the reorganization of certain
schools of the University made a verbal report to the effect
that in so far as said Committee were charged with the duty
of recommending a Plan for reorganizing the School of English
Language & Literature said majority of said Committee
approved of the Report submitted by said special Committee
on the said communication of Prof. Garnett and asked to be
allowed to report their said concurrence in said report in
lieu of making any other or formal report on the subject.
Mr E. C. Venable stated that as a member of the said
committee for recommending a Plan for the re-organization
of certain schools in the University, he did not concur in
the views submitted (as hereinabove stated) by the majority
of said committee.
Whereupon it was moved that the said Report made by
the said special committee on the communication of Prof.
Garnett, together with the said report made by the majority
of said committee appointed to recommend a plan for the reorganization
of certain schools, be received approved and
adopted.
A call being made for the taking of the vote of the
Board upon said motion by yeas & nays it was so ordered and
the said motion was adopted by the following vote:
| Ayes, - Messrs Conrad, Martin, Marye, Perkins, Parrish, Noland, Stuart and Randolph |
Ayes | 8 |
| Nays - Mr Venable. | Nays | 1 |
The following is a copy of the report referred to above
as the "report of the majority of the Committee appointed to
recommend a plan for the reorganization of certain schools",
and adopted as above:
To the Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia
Gentlemen,
The Commee charged with the duty of reporting a plan of
reorganization of the schools of English & Literature, Modern
Languages and Historical Science respectfully submit the following
as their report and recommend its adoption.
1. That the Board after carefully examining the testimonials
furnished them by the Professor of Modern Languages
and having carefully weighed the testimony in the possession
of the Board are glad to inform the Professor that the cause
of the complaints made of his school as to its efficiency has
been largely removed by the improvement in the school during
the past year, due doubtless to the Professor's improved health.
The Board of Visitors however deem it proper to urge upon
the Professor the necessity of his making more efficient use
of his assistant and to make more useful this necessary aid to
his increasing age and infirmities have decided to increase
the salary of his assistant, and the Board invite the Professor
to nominate an Assistant to the Board for election.
2. That the Board of Visitors inform the Professor of Historical
Science that the complaints as to the efficiency of
that school are largely based upon the utter lack of discipline
in its class room, and the disorder consequent thereon.
The Board are informed that this disorder is of a character
not to be permitted at this institution, and therefore
kindly and respectfully admonishes the Professor that
discipline in the class room sufficient to insure complete
order just be maintained and that instruction given in his
school must be thorough and complete.
Signed. W. C. N. Randolph
etc.
I approve the above report with regard to schools of
Modern Languages and Historical Science. I dissent from the
not believing remedy adequate.
Signed Edwd C. Venable.
Whereas Prof. M. Schele DeVere has nominated to this
Board Mr W. H. Perkinson as assistant in the School of Modern
Languages, therefore,
Resolved, that Mr Perkinson be and he is hereby appointed
such assistant for one year at the salary of $800.
Resolved, that the resignations of Professors Page and
Wheeler be accepted.
The following members of the Board were elected as the
Executive Committee:
Messrs Randolph, Chairman, Marye, Venable, Parrish and
Perkins.
Prof. C. S. Venable was unanimously reelected Chairman
of the Faculty and Prof. Wm M. Thornton unanimously reelected
Vice-Chairman of the Faculty.
Resolved, that the Chairman of the Faculty give notice
in the usual way that the Board will on the 11th of August
next proceed to elect a Greek Professor in place of Prof.
Wheeler, resigned.
On motion of Mr Marye the following was adopted.
The members of this Board received with sensibility the
intelligence of the resignation by the Honorable A. H. H.
Stuart of his place as a Visitor and Rector of the University.
His long and distinguished services in the performance
of high Public Trusts confided to him in the State and Federal
valuable acquisition. His acknowledged talents, ripe experience
and wide reputation, added to his constant devotion
to the welfare of the University, enabled him to make
his earnest labors in her behalf productive of large and
lasting benefit. He was instrumental in procuring from enlightened
men of wealth most valuable benefactions for the
endowment of schools, and in upholding the just claims of
the Institution to the high regard of intelligent public
opinion throughout the country.
These valuable and fruitful labors were a fitting sequel
to his arduous work in the varied and eminent spheres
of Public duty which he had filled with honor and ability,
and will be remembered with gratitude by every friend of
the University.
Those members of this Board who had the honor and pleasure
to be personally associated with him in its duties lament
his retirement not only as a serious loss to the Institution,
but as a sad privation of his agreeable and instructive social
intercourse.
The Secretary of this Board is directed to the send a
copy of the foregoing to Mr Stuart.
On motion the Rector appointed a committee consisting
of Messrs, Venable, Randolph and Perkins to prepare resolutions
in respect to the resignations of Profs. Page and Wheeler
to be submitted to the Board.
The committee after retiring reported the following resolutions
which upon being read were severally unanimously adopted:
Resolved, that this Board in accepting the resignation
of Prof. J. R. Page desire to put on record their high appreciation
of his character as a man and gentleman and to
state that in their opinion as will be evidenced by their
contemplated reorganization of the School of Experimental
& Practical Agriculture his position as Professor was attended
with very serious obstacles to its success.
The Secretary is requested to communicate this resolution
to Dr Page.
Resolved, that in accepting the resignation of Prof.
John H. Wheeler, the Board of Visitors expresses deep regret
in severing his connection with the University of Virginia.
For some 5 years past he has filled the Chair of
Greek with most commendable ability, not only to the complete
satisfaction of this Board, but in such manner as has tended
to advance the reputation of the University as made by some
of the best Greek scholars of America.
The acceptance of this resignation is the occasion of
greater regret because it is the result of physical misfortune
to Prof. Wheeler, and the Board expresses the sincerest
sympathy for him personally, in his great affliction, and
especially recognizes the debt of gratitude due him by reason
of the fact that he has been forced to desist while engaged
in the work of this University. The Board cherishes
the earnest hope that Prof. Wheeler may yet be permitted further
to pursue and illumine the paths of his profession.
Resolved that a copy of this resolution be furnished
Prof. Wheeler.
On motion the Board adjourned to the 11th of August
next.
Jno. L. Marye
Rector
Jas D. Jones,
Secretary.
| Board of Visitors minutes June 27, 1887 | |