Repository: UIHistories Project: Board of Trustees Minutes - 1868 [PAGE 27]

EXTRACTED TEXT FROM PAGE:

15 Mr. BURCHARD suggested whether the next business in order would not be the locating of the institution. Mr. HAYES rose to a question of order, and suggested that to the better carrying out of the spirit of the constitution, it would be proper, before proceeding farther with the business on hand, that the members of the board take the customary oath to preserve the constitutions of the State and Nation, against duelling, etc., and moved that the members present do now subscribe to the said oath; which was seconded and carried. Police Justice, L. B. Adams, being present, was called upon, and administered the following oath, which was subscribed to by all the members present, with uplifted hands:

" You do severally solemnly swear that you will support the constitutions of the United States and of this State, and faithfully perform the duties of trustees of the Illinois Industrial University, to the best of your knowledge and ability. You do also solemnly swear that you have not fought a duel, nor sent or accepted a challenge to fight a duel, the probable issue of which might have been the death of either party, nor been a second to either party, nor in any manner aided or assisted in such duel, nor been knowingly the bearer of such challenge or acceptance since the adoption of the constitution, and that you will not be so engaged or concerned, directly or indirectly, in or about any such duel, during your continuance in office. So help you God."

Mr. BURROUGHS preferred that a Regent should be elected today, so that the scrip might be issued and located with as little delay as possible. Mr. BLACKBURN thought that in view of the supplemental act "for the organization, endowment, etc.," of the University, there could be no doubt that the institution was located at Champaign, and thought the board should assume such a shape as to receive the property donated, before the Regent should be elected. Mr. QUICK thought that the board should proceed at once to the election of a Eegent. Mr. BURCHARD wanted light as to the best man for the position, and therefore made a motion to adjourn till 2£ P. M., at which time the board shall proceed to the election of a Regent under the law. An amendment was offered making the election of a Regent the special order for 2J this £. M. Mr. SCROGGS thought the motion to adjourn was before the house, and that no discussion was in order.