Repository: UIHistories Project: Course Catalog - 1895-1896 [PAGE 25]

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HISTORY

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another instructor was added, and there was a total enrollment of 77 students, all young men. During the first term instruction was given in algebra, geometry, physics, history, rhetoric, and Latin. Akmg with this, work on the farm and gardens or around the buildings was compulsory for all students. But in March of the next Year compulsory labor was discontinued, save when it was made to serve as a part of class instruction. A chemical laboratory was fitted up during the autumn of 1868, and students then began practical work in the department. Botanical laboratory work was commenced the following year. In January, 1870, a temporary mechanical shop was fitted up with tools and machinery, and in this little wooden building, originally constructed for a carpenter shop, was begun tins first shop-instruction given in any American university. During the summer of 1871 a large brick structure, the present Engineering Laboratory, was erected and equipped for students' shop work in both wood and iron. A diploma of merit was awarded for the exhibition in this line made at the Centennial Exposition. By vote, March 9, 1870, the trustees admitted women as students, and during the year 1870-71 twenty-four availed themselves of the privilege. Since that time they have constituted from one-sixth to one-fifth of the total number of students. By the original state law certificates showing the studies pursued and the attainments in each were given instead of the usual diplomas and degrees. The certificates proved unsatisfactory to the holders, and, on petition of the alumni, the legislature, in 1877, gave the University authority to confer degrees. Upon request of the alumni, seconded by the trustees and faculty, the legislature, in 1885, changed the name of the institution to the " University of Illinois." During the same session of the legislature a bill was passed transferring the State Laboratory of Natural History from the Illinois State Normal University to the University of Illinois. This laboratory was created by law for the purpose of making a natural history survey of the state, with the publication of the results in a series of bulletins and reports, and for the allied purpose of furnishing specimens illustrative of the flora and fauna of the state to the public schools, and to the state