Repository: UIHistories Project: Book - History of the University (Powell) [PAGE 81]

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Illinois Plan for Land (hunt Colleges

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ate realization. And it is worthy of note that one of the raoet extensive of the Public Lands (or new) states, proposes a magnificent donation of Public Lands to each of the states, old as well as new, in furtherance of this idea. Whether that precise form of aid to the project is most judicious and likely to be effective, we will not here consider. Suffice it that the legislature of Illinois has taken a noble step forward, in a most liberal and patriotic spirit, for which its members will be heartily thanked by thousands throughout the union. We feel that this step has materially hastened the coming of Scientific and Practical Education for all who desire and are willing to work for it. It cannot come too soon." 55 The press of the day wherever these resolutions were discussed gave credit to Illinois for initiating this particular movement. More than twelve years later after success had been won Turner made the statement "that the legislature of Illinois was the first political body that ever petitioned congress, or any power, for such a grant. \>5G ||| Another important event of January, 1853, and in a large measure a result of the two recent industrial conventions was the formation of the Illinois state agricultural society. It was organized on January 5,1853, in Springfield. Among the organizers and leading spirits were Bronson Murray, John Kennicott, J. B. Turner, L. L. Bullock and others who were leaders in the movement for industrial education. The latter cause won undoubtedly an accession of valuable friends by this new organization which for many years was a strong supporter of an industrial university. The society was incorporated on February 8, 1853, and on February 11 following it was granted the sum of $1000 per annum for two years by the legislature,57 The first state fair of the society was held the following autumn at Springfield. On invitation of the executive committee J. B. Turner delivered the first annual address on that ocIlUno%8 Journal, March 12, 1853. '•Illinois State Agricultural Society, Transactions, 5:37. In his statement the words "for such a g r a n t " are to be interpreted carefully. "For account of the organization and acts referred to see Illinois State Agricultural Society, Transactions, 1:38-42.

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