Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Talbot Lab [PAGE 14]

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HISTORY OF COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

him, much more than to any other, must be given the credit for laying the foundations of the young institution with a breadth which permitted, a generation later, the erection thereon of the University as we find it to-day. THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING The Board of Trustees at its second meeting, in May 1867, adopted the report of its "Committee on Courses of Study and Faculty," consisting of the Regent and four members of the Board. This report provided for courses in mechanical science and art, in civil engineering, in mining engineering and metallurgy, and in architecture and fine arts. Instruction began in a small way in the College of Engineering in 1868, as will be noted later, but it was when Stillman W. Robinson entered upon his duties as Professor of Mechanical Engineering on January 1, 1870, that instruction began in real earnest. Professor Robinson, then thirty-two years old, had been for the preceding three years Assistant Professor of Mining Engineering and Geodesy at the University of Michigan, where he had received his undergraduate training. With his arrival was inaugurated here the third attempt in this country to give instruction in mechanical engineering. Of those then responsible for the development of the College, he alone had definite ideas as to how to proceed. He was an advocate of combining practical with theoretical instruction, and was responsible for the inauguration of shop practice in the College. A man of fine and persuasive personality and an enthusiastic teacher, he soon enlisted the confidence and support of the Administration and Trustees and students. He made an impress on the educational aims and ideals of the new college which persisted over many years. He left the University in 1878 to go to Ohio State University. Professor Robinson was followed by Dr. Selim H. Peabody, who was appointed Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Physics in 1878, and later became Regent of the University. As Regent, he continued for a time to teach the technical sub. 11