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Caption: Book - History of the University (Powell)
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First Tears of Work 325 water shells, and of minerals together with some specimens of different lands of wood, soils, materials of manufacture, and of manufactured articles. With the opening of the university year in 1869 an increase in attendance began. Early in the autumn of that year one hundred and thirty-two students were enrolled which by winter had increased to one hundred and fifty-seven. One new name appears in the list of professors for 1869—S. W. Robinson, professor of mechanical science, and three newt names appear among the instructors of lower rank—James Belangee, teacher of architectural and mechanical drawing, H. M. Douglas, assistant in laboratory; Alexander Thompson, C. E., practical mechanic and foreman of machine shops; and as a non-resident professor, besides John A Warder of Cincinnati, Professor Sanborn Tenny as lecturer on zoology. A significant development of the mechanical department began in 1869 with the arrival of Robinson from Michigan university who was little short of a genius in mechanics and nothing short in handling boys. His work was practical for it squared with men's needs. With the help of an assistant, Alexander Thompson, a graduate of the scientific department of Michigan university and an accomplished draftsman and civil engineer, he devised and constructed an engine instead of purchasing one outright. It was made with different sets of valve gears which made it possible to exhibit several distinct forms of the steam engine at comparatively small expense. The mechanical students helped, both in the actual work and in the making of the patterns. The result was the completion of a fine ten-horse power engine which probably had as much human satisfaction wrought into it as any other engine in the world. Robinson was adequate for all emergencies. When his department needed more room he inspired the members of the department until they longed to raise the roof of the carpenter's shop and add a second story; thus a good shop was secured at small expense. The fame of the department spread and the students who came proved the intense eagerness that existed for sound instruction along practical lirtes. Carpenters, cabinet makers, blacksmiths, carriage makers, house painters, coach painters, and machinists were
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