Repository: UIHistories Project: Board of Trustees Minutes - 1890 [PAGE 126]

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PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES.

129

Authority is also asked to modify the descriptive matter of the catalogue when this can be made to express more nearly or more clearly the actual present condition of things. In this connection mention may be made of the desirability of securing some better cuts of the University buildings. A possibility of great improvement in this matter is made evident by an inspection of the illustrations in use. Probably no better use can be made of the requisite amount, if taken from the fund set apart for advertising.

SECURITY FROM F I R E .

The loss by fire of the magnificent building of the Toronto University, which, with the contents consumed, was valued at about one million dollars, besides invaluable collections and accumulations, has again called attention to our own dangers in this respect. Bene wed precautions have been taken to prevent such a calamity. The main buildings have been carefully examined and everything supposed possible has been done to remove the liability to fire. The members of the Faculty have undertaken to inform themselves thoroughly as to what to do and how to do it in case of need. An organization of students has been formed under the supervision and command of Lieut. Hoppin, who kindly consents to look after the matter. The details for the purpose, with the necessary accompanying directions, are printed on slips of paper designed to be posted in every occupied room. Attention is respectfully asked to the provision of fire escapes from the upper story of the main building. From this floor, now daily occupied for class instruction attended by a large number of students, and having upon it the society halls, there is no means of descent except by the central staircase. Other plans may suggest themselves to your wisdom, but a simple escape can be made at each end of the building by cutting through the floor into the hall below where extra stairs exist. These openings may be kept closed by trap doors; and, to prevent accident by their being left open, they may be cased sufficiently high to be safe. A wire or rope ladder would then furnish the escape. Without further recommendations a t present, your earnest consideration of the subject is solicited. For quick removal of the books from the library, a canvas chute might be provided to be placed in one of the windows and to reach the ground below.

WORLD'S F A I R I N CHICAGO.

The anticipated holding of a World's Fair in Chicago should be noted, and, as it seems to me, preparations should be entered upon at once for the best possible presentation of the University and it's work. To do this, much careful consideration, a good deal of labor, and no small sum of money will be required. With these a magnificent showing can be made and an emphatic demonstration furnished t h a t the University is worthy to receive a large amount of the valuable material which somebody will secure at the close of the great exhibition. Assuming t h a t the fair is to be held, the first thing to do is to decide whether an exhibit by t h e University shall be made, after which it is presumable t h a t the most t h a t can be done now is to appoint a suitable committee to report at your next meeting. In the meantime, however, enthusiasm can be aroused among members and friends of the institution and an important beginning made before definite plans shall be formulated. The report of t h e Building Committee, will give you the details of the work done upon the new drill hall since your last meeting, and the further requirements for the same. But the building reports for itself, and shows t h a t very satisfactory progress has been made. The completion of this structure will mark a mile-stone in the history of the University, and it may be fittingly dedicated to its designed purposes by appropriate ceremonies under your direction. Will you take action upon the subject?

- 9 U. I.