"C ■o LD 5178 T3 UC-NRLF B 3 110 355 <9 •3 •V L- THE UNIYERSITY. DISCOURSE BV DR. TAPPAN. THE UNIVERSITY; ITS CONSTITUTIOlSr, AXD ITS RELATIONS, POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS: A DISCOUKSE Delivered June 22d, 1858, AT THE REQUEST OF THE CHRISTIAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, By HENRY P. TAPPAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHI3AW. ' . , > ^ , , ' 3 ^ J * ' ^ ^ 4 J 1 \ •< Published by the Regents at the request of the Alamnl* ANN ARBOR : FEINTED BY S. B. McCRACKEN. 1858. « • < « DISCOURSE. GrENTLEMEN OF THE BoARD OF ReGENTS, OF THE FaCULTY, AND OP THE Christian Library Associatioij : It will not be deemed superfluous, at the outset of my discourse, to recall to your minds, as well as to inform the public, of the origin of this association. The original organization of a religious character was that of the Society of Inquiry for missions. This society existed for a number of years and was conducted with various degrees of efficiency and success. The order of exercises required monthly reports on Chris- tian missions which were delivered in public by students appointed for that purpose by the members. A curious feature of this organ- ization was that, although its objects apparently were calculated to interest only religious students, and especially those who were contemplating the gospel ministry, it admitted members with little or no discrimination. Many excellent reports were indeed read ; but the diversity of character and views which the association nec- essarily embraced were adverse to that harmony and energy which are essential to success and which can be secured only by a unity in the governing principle. During the present collegiate year, by common consent the Society of Inquiry wa^bolished. After this the Christian Association was organized. This differs from the former organization both in its terms of admission, and in its objects. It is composed of stu- dents who are members of Christian churches, or who, at least, profess to be aiming at a religious life as a cardinal interest. ivi202122 Its objects too, are more comprehensive ; and, while not discarding Christian missions, embrace general religious cultivation, and espe- cially in relation to collegiate life. By this association religious students will be led to know each other more intimately, to cherish a more lively interest in each others welfare, to watch over and sustain each other, and to co-operate in all wise and legitimate methods of promoting religion in the University generally. But the new movement did not stop here. The deficiency of the University Library, and of the Libraries of the Students' Societies, in religious books, arrested the attention of professors and students, and of certain friends of the University. These libraries, like those of similar institutions, consisted mainly of scientific works, and works of general literature. It would be difl5.cult, if not impossible, to supply this deficiency from the general funds of the University. A State institution and not designed to be controlled by any particular religious denomina- tion — an attempt, on its part, to supply religious books might stir up denominational prejudices, and lead to a conflict of denominational interests inimical to its peace and prosperity. If the Students' Lit- erary Societies were to attempt it, the religious and secular ele- ments would be liable to constant disagreement respecting the prop- er proportion of religious and secular books. A new association, therefoi-e, having this for its leading object seemed to be the only way of meeting the exigency. This associa- tion is open to all who choose to enter into it, and is formed upon principles so simple and catholic that there seems tobe no just ground of apprehension for its success. The annual subscription of the members will contribute a steady, although not a very large fund, for purchasing books ; the wise and good from different parts of the country will make donations, from time to time, in money and books ; authors and publishers will not forget us ; and thus, from various sources there will be collected, aa we hope, and continue to grow, a library composed of the varied, remarkable, and, to a great extent, rich and magnificent literature which has sprung from religious ideas and the word of God ; and for which our English tongue is distinguished, perhaps, beyond all other forms of human speech. 5 Indeed, gentlemen, our University is like the Virgin Earth when Eden was planted — when the hand of God sowed tlie soil with seeds which should germinate and multiply into boundless bounty and beauty throughout the coming generations. We who are called to the work of building up this University, are instruments of a Divine benignity working for the future through the present ; and if we do our work truly and uprightly, are sowing ' seeds of knowledge and of just and fundamental principles in this new and virgin region for all time to come ; and surrounding our- selves with such rich and hallowed memories, that men of after ages will rise up and call us blessed. We must look for something far ' higher than temporary expedients, or to gain a Tain and fleeting reputation in our own day. If we build on a false foundation, our work will perish, and oui" names be dishonored : For we cannot pre- vent the ultimate and righteous judgement of history. If we build fairly and truly our work shall live and we shall live with it. Of all mere human institutions there are none so important and mighty in their influence as Universities ; because, when rightly constituted, they are made up of the most enlightened, and the choic- est spirits of our race ; they embrace the means of all human culture, and they act dii-ectly upon the fresh and upspringing man- hood of a nation. To them must be traced science, literature, and art ; the fui-niture of religious faith ; the lights of industry ; the mov- ing forces of civilization ; and the brotherly unity of humanity. Do we ask, what are their grand constituents ? There is but , one reply — scholars and books. Wherever you collect the treasures of knowledge, and the men who know how to use and apply them, there, and there only, you have properly a University. The organization is simple; for the power employed is self-governing — self-directing : like the element of light, give it room, and it makes its unerring way. Hence it will be found in the history of Uni- versities, that they have been the work of individuals rather than of governments. Goverments may charter and endow them; but scholars must mould them and build them up. Governments may provide, and should provide that the two great constituents — schol- ars and books — be made sure and ample ; but after that, let them 6 have freedom and scope for the work which scholars only can accom- plish. Let there be no jealous and tyrannical interference ; let there be no religious or political tests ; let there be no barbarous attempt to harness the winged Pegasus to the drag of beggarly elements. Knowledge can flourish only in the air of freedom ; beau- ty can grow only under the sunlight of heaven ; truth can walk in majesty and vigor only when unfettered ; goodness can be pure and without hypocrisy only amid the sanctities of trust. Let us have the alimeut of thou2;ht ; but then leave us to think. Freedom — this is the grand characteristic of University Educa- tion, as it is the essential attribute of manhood. Childhood and youth, of necessity, must be trained and disciplined under authority : but when the mind has come to know itself, and has gained the art of study, then it must lead on its own development. The educational System has attained its most perfect organization, when the boundary between the pre-disciplinary stage, and the University, is most sharp- ly defined ; and the early and authoritative training is conducted in primary reference to the self-training which is to follow. Profes- sors and books aid, guide, and stimulate ; but the scholar makes himself. He must be self-made or he is not made at all. Indeed, in the pre-disciplinary stage there is an incipient self-making, for all study and learning, even the most elementary, imply a thoughtful self-application ; and every act of thought is an act of freedom. — But the University ever holds this distinction, that here, the stu- dent has attained a position from whence he can estimate the ends and aims of thought, and can map out to himself the fields of schol- arship. In the present state of our institutions, the pre-disciplinary stage, and the university stage run together, so that the boundai'ies over- lap each other and confuse the lines of separation. We name our colleges, universities, while our universities are little more than colleges. It is evident, however, that clearer views on educational organi- zation are spreading over the country ; and more positive efforts are made towards the development of universities. The State of Mich- igan has already gained distinction for efforts of this kind ; and gives fair promise of eventually reaching the goal. She has con- ceived the plan, and laid the foundations of a university. Within a short period great advances have been made. What is now of the greatest moment to us is to avoid mistakes which may impede our prosperity; if not lead to disorganization and ruin. We must endeav^or to keep clearly before us the great end, to employ the right means, and to make every movement a step in the right direc- tion. It is disastrous to do only to make it necessary to undo again. It is running too great a hazard to venture upon doubtful experi- ments. But this is by no means necessary, for there is no subject whose principles are simpler or better defined, or sustained and illustrated by more numerous facts. How simple the idea of a university ! An association of emi- nent scholars in every department of human knowledge ; together with books embodying the results of human investigation and think- ing, and all the means of advancing and illustrating knowledge. How simple the law which is to govern this association ! — That each member as a thinker, investigater, and teacher shall be a law unto himself, in his own department. Is there any authority competent to prescribe to Bacon, Leibnitz, Kant, Cousin, Hamilton, the methods of philosophical thinking, and exposition? To Gallileo, Newton, Herschell, Struve, La Place, Arago, Le Verrier, Airy, how to demonstrate the mechanism of the heavens, and to pursue the stars in their courses ? To Dalton, Davy, Faraday, Licbig, how to conduct the analyses of the Labora- tory, and to determine the laws of chemistry ? To Macauley and Prescott how to write histories ? To Burke and Brougham how to debate in the English parliament ; to Webster and Clay in the American Senate? To Milton, Shakespeare, Goethe, Schiller how to write poems ? To Titian and Eaphael how to cover the canvass with Divine Forms ? To Michael Angelo how to build St. Peters ? Nay, nay, to go to humbler things. Is not the ship builder entrusted with the building of the ship ; the engineer with the construction of the Rail Road ? Governments and corporations do not construct public works any more than they make poems, paintings and stat- ues : They only gi-ant charters, and provide the means; and then entrust them to the men who by capacity, knowledge, and experi- 8 cnce are qualified to do the work. To have the work well done, the essential thing is to find the men qualified to do it. The same principle applies to universities. "Every man to hi& trade." Governments cannot make universities by enactments of law : Nor corporations by the erection of edifices : The church cannot create them under the authority of heaven : The flattering eulogies of orators cannot adorn them with learning: Newspapers cannot puff them into being. Learned men — scholars — these are the only workmen who can build up universities. Provide charters and endowments — the necessary protection and capital : provide books and apparatus — the necessary tools: Then seek out the sufiicient scholars, and leave them to the work, as the intellectual engineers who are alone competent to do it. The history of all art, of all great undertakings proves that this ia the only way of success. Nay, it is an exceedingly plain thing which every man of common sense cannot fail to see. And the history of universities proves most decisively that this is the only way by which they have risen to eminence and success. It may be very difficult to find men equal to this, as it is often difficult to find men equal to any great undertaking. But the princi- ple of success lies luminously before us. Says Sir "William Ham- ilton — the very highest authority on the subject : "Universities are establishments founded and privileged by the State for public purposes : They accomplish these purposes through their professors ; and the right of choosing professors is a public trust confided to an individual or body of men, solely to the end, that the persons best qualified for its duties, may be most certainly procured for the vacant chair." This distinguished philosopher and author has shown, in pursuing the history of European Universities, how their eminence and pros- perity have ebbed and flowed just as this principle of seeking the ablest professors has been departed from or adhered to. The in- stances of the Universities of Padua and Pisa show how even secta- rian prejudices yielded to the interests of learning. "From the integrity of their patrons, and the lofty standard by which they judged, the call to a Paduan or Pisan chair was deemed the high- est of all literary honors. The status of Professors was in Italy 9 elevated to a dignity, which in other countriea it has never reached ; and not a few of the most illustrious teachers in the Italian Semi- naries, were of the proudest nobility of the land. While the Uni- versities of other countries had fallen from Christian and cosmopo- lite, to sectarian and local schools, it is the peculiar glory of the Italian, that under the enlightened liberality of their patrons, they still continued to assert their Universality: creed and country were in them no bar ; "the latter not even a reason for preference. For- eigners of every nation are to be found among their professors ; and the most learned man of Scotland — Dempster — sought in a Pisan chair, that theatre for his abilities which he could not find at home." Sir "William Hamilton adduces Leyden as a marked illustration of the results of the principle which he advocates,' in his very able paper on "Academical Patronage and Superintendence," — by which he means the appointing power of Universities. The passage is too remarkable to be omitted. "It is mainly to John Van der Does, Lord of Noortwyck, a distinguished soldier and statesman, but still more celebrated as a universal scholar under the learned appellative of Janus Douza, that the school of Leyden owes, its existence and reputation. As Grovernor of that city, he had baffled the leaguer of Requesens; and his ascendency which had moved the citizens to endure the horrors of a blockade, subsequently influenced them to prefer, to a remission of imposts, the boon of a University. In the constitution of the new Seminary it was he who was principally consulted ; and his comprehensive erudition which earned for him the titles of the "Batavian Varro," and "common oracle of the Uni- versity," but still more his lofty views and unexclusive liberality, enabled him to discharge, for above thirty years, the function of first curator with unbounded influence and unparalleled success. — Gerard Van Hoogeveen, and Cornelius de Coning, were his merito- rious colleagues. Douza's principles were those which ought to regulate the practice of all academical patrons; and they were those of his successors. He knew, that at the rate learning was seen prized by the State in the academy, would it be valued by the nation at large. In his eyes a University was not a mere mouth piece of necessary instruction, but at once a pattern of lofty erudi- tion, and a stimulus to its attainment. He knew that professors 2 10 wrought more even by example and influence than by teaching; that it was theirs to pitch high or low the standard of learning in a country ; and that as it proved arduous or easy to come up to- them, they awoke either a restless endeavor after an ever loftier attainment, or lulled into a self-satisfied conceit. And this relation between the professorial body and the nation, held also between the professors themselves. Imperative in all, it was more particularly incumbent on the first curators of a University, to strive after the very highest (palifica- tions ; for it was theirs to determine the character which the school should afterwards maintain ; and theirs to give a higher tone to the policy of their successors. With these views Douza proposed to concentrate in Ley den a complement of professors, all illustrious for their learning ; and if the most transcendent erudition could not be procured for the University with the obligation of teaching, that it should still be secured to it without. For example, Lipsius^ ''the Prince of Latin literature" had retired. Who was to replace him ? Joseph Scaliger, the most learned man whom the world has ever seen, was then living a dependent, in the family of Rochepozay. — He, of all men, was, if possible, to be obtained. The celebrated Baudius, and Tuniugius, professor of Civil Law, were commissioned to proceed as Envoys to France, vrith authority to tender the appoint- ment, and to acquiesce in any terms that the illustrious scholar might propose. Nor was this enough. Not only did the curators of the University and the Municipality of Ley den write in the most flattering strain to the "Prince of the Literary Senate," urging his acquiescence, but also the States of Holland, and Maurice of Orange. Nay, the States and Stadtholder preferred likewise strong solicitations to the King of France to employ his influence in their behalf with the ''Phoenix of Europe," which the great Henry cordially did. The negotiations succeeded. Leyden was illustrated ; the general standard of learned acquirement, and the criterion of professorial competency, were elevated to a lofty pitch ; erudition was honored above riches and power, in the person of her favorite son. After the death of Scaliger his place was to be filled by the only man who may contest with him the supremacy of learn- ing ; and Scdmasius, who though a Protestaat had been invited to 11 Padua, but under the obligation of lecturing, preferred the literary leisure of Leyden, with the emoluments and honors which its cura- tors and magistracy lavished on him : — simply, that, as his call de- I clares, "he might improve by conversation, and stimulate by exam- i pie, the learned of the place ;" or in the word.s of his funeral orator, "ut nominis sui honorem academia) huic impertil-et, scriptis eandem illustraret, prreseutia condecoraret." And yet the working pro- fessors of Leyden, at that time, formed a constellation of great men which no other University could exhibit. Such is a sample of the extraordinary efforts (for such sinecures were out of rule) of the first curators of Leyden, to raise their school ' to undisputed preeminence, and their country to the most learned in Europe. In this attempt they were worthily seconded by their successors, and favored by the rivalry of the patrons of the other Universities, and Scholar Ulustres of the United Provinces. And : what was their success ? In the Batavian Netherlands, when Leyden was founded, erudition was at a lower ebb than in most other coun- tries ; and a generation had hardly passed away when the Dutch I scholars, of every profession, were the most numerous and learned in the world. And this not from artificial encouragement and support, in superfluous foundations, affording at once the premium of education, and the leisure for its undisturbed pursuit, for of these the Provinces had none ; not from the high endowment of academic chairs, for the moderate salaries of the professors were returned (it was calculated) more than twelve times to the commu- nity, by the resort of foreign students alone ; but simply through the admirable organization of all literary patronage, by which merit and merit alone, was always sure of honor, and of an honored, if not lucrative appointment ; a condition without which colleges are nuisances, and universities only organized against their end. — Leyden has been surpassed by many other Universities, in the emoluments and in the number of her chairs, but has been equalled by none in the average eminence of her professors. Of these, the obscurer names would be luminaries in many other schools ; and from the circle of her twelve professors, and in an existence of two hun- dred years, she can select a more numerous company of a higher erudition than can be found among the publio teachers of any other seminary in the world." 12 Such is the language cf Sir Willim Hamilton — himself a prodigy of erudition, one of the most eminent philosophers and professors of his times, and the most distinguished writer on education in the English language. What he has said of Leyden is borne out by all the great Universities of the world. Their intellectual vitality, their power as educational institutions, their distinction and pros- perity, and the general state of learning in the countries to which they belong have always kept pace with the ability and erudition of the professorial corps they could bring together and maintain. And wherever the grand point of an elite body of professors was once gained, all things else of greatest value followed rapidly. In the year 1810, when the Kingdom of Prussia was crushed by the weight of the French invasion, the University of Berlin was established under the patronage of the King. The philosopher Fichte, was the principal instrument employed in moulding its form, and breathing into it 1 ife and power. The great principle of its creation was that of bringing together the most eminent men from every part of Germany. Leibnitz had indeed already founded the Academy of Sciences, and Berlin was the home of Hximboldt ; Fichte and the King Lad congenial coadjutors. But who could have anticipated that the experiment of Leyden was here to be so glori- ously renewed ! From the siege of Leyden arose a University beside which the old Universities of Spain became insignificant : and from the French invasion arose, at Berlin, a University which in less than a quarter of a century rivalled the Sorbonne and the College of France. Under the great Napoleon, the grandeur of the Institute sprang from a similar cause with the grandeur of his army. In the first he aimed to collect men of the highest genius and learning : The unexampled tactics, and terrible efficiency of the latter arose from that band of generals and marshals whom his sagacity detected, and his example moulded and inspired. It was by the men that he gathered arou.nd him in war and in science, that he well nigh made , France the centre of empire, as he made it the centre of civili- zation. It is a law of God's universe that great ends require great princi- ples and adequate means and instruments. History will be searched 13 in vain for instances where mean conceptions and pretentious fee- bleness have led on revolutions, advanced art and science, or laid the stable foundations of national greatness. 'A Brigham Young may lead his hordes to Utah ; but there are no seeds of truth and liberty such as the Maj^flower bore over the Atlantic wave : there is no germ of a future Washington. The Toledo war could give us no heroes of Lexington and Bunker Hill. To do manly things, we must have brave men. To do good things, we must have virtue. Patriotic deeds demand patriots. Commercial prosperity demands both honesty and enterprise. The poet only can write poems. — The artist only can mould the forms of beauty. The hopes of our country can repose only in the true statesman. The cunning politi- cian is but a stock jobber. The hero is our safety in war. The thinker alone reveals principles of improvement. The educated alone can lead on the great cause of education. All great and endu- rino- institutions must spring from minds adequate to conceive them, from hands skillful and powerful to build them. And if there be any institutions which might claim even the aid of divinities, they are those from whence shall gush forth, as from the rock smitten by the wand of the prophet, the streams which are to nourish the intelligence and invigorate the character of a free and mighty people like this, which is swarming from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from the "frozen North," to the amber and flowery South. I conceive of the University of Michigan as capable of becoming one of these great and distinguished institutions ; a rock to be smit- ten by the wand of a prophet that the streams of knowledge may gush forth for the people. I see in the plan originally adopted by its founders, in its origin as a gift from the general government to this young and vigorous State, in its very name — the University or THE State of MIchigan — and in its entire history, the marks of greatness, of wide spread influence, of national glory. Let the State of Michigan collect here, the means of all knowledge and liberal culture : Let the curators appointed by the people aim at^one thing — to bring together, here, all the talent and erudition possible, in- dependently of political or sectarian considerations, and no doubtful- ness can overhang the result. Where you collect the treasures of learning and learned men, you cannot fail of a University. This 14r 18 the way in which Universities have always been made : it ia the fixed law of their creation. When I received a call from the late Board of Kegents to take ■charge of this University, I felt as all men in middle life must feel when called to break up long cherished associations, to forsake the home places of childhood, youth and manhood, to enter new regions however glorious and beautiful they may be. I had been so long accustomed to see the sun rise from the Atlantic wave, and "scatter the east wind upon the earth," that I recoiled from the thought of watching him in his noontide splendor looking down upon these vast lakes as upon "a molten looking glass," or of watching his set- ting over these unbroken prairies as if wearily travelling to find his rest beyond the rocky mountains ; and I had been so long accus- tomed, on solstitial summer days like this, to track the shadows upon the hills and mountains which embosom the Hudson, on whose enchanted banks I breathed the air of spring as my first taste of life, that it seemed to me I should lose alike my identity and all "local habitation" amid these boundless plains and forests, and in this mighty rushing tide of human life. Believe me, it was a painful ■decision for me to make to accept that call, although so honorable, and implying so much public trust. But I saw that I was called for no ordinary purpose, to enter upon no common work. A young, vigorous, free, enlightened, and magnanimous people, had laid the foundations of a State University : they were aiming to open for themselves one of the great fountains of civilization, of culture, of refinement, of true national grandeur and prosperity : while leveling the forests, and turning up the furrows of the virgin soil to the sunlight, they would enter upon the race of knowledge, and beautify and refine their new homes with learning and the liberal arts ; they would reduce the rude Pan to the graceful measures of the beautiful Apollo and his "sacred nine," and cause the Huron to repeat the wiz- ard murmurs of the Uissus. It was the charm of this high promise and expectation that drew me here. As a trust was reposed in me, so I came trustfully. If I had not something to bring ; if I were not capable of doing something, why was I called ? wherefore should I presume to come ? No one should be called to such a work who has not given pledges of com- petency : no one should undertake it who is entitely dubious of 15 himself. I hold it as a fixed principle, that a true man must know himself ; and that he who undertakes a public trust, must have principles settled, methods defined, a course of action conceived of, and a brave heart to govern a ready and not unskillful hand. I am now just closing the sixth year of my presidency. One lustrum is past ; another is just entered upon. Let me be judged of by my works. You will all bear me witness that I have ever expounded the true and established idea of a University — an association of scholars together with books and all other means of knowledge. The late Board of Regents have themselves testified that we attained to harmony in our views and cordially co-operated in our endeavors to build up this University. In the appointment of professors, we aimed to be governed by the principle illustrated in the history of all great and prosperous Universities : we sought for the most competent men. The advance- ment and prosperity of this institution has added another illustra- tion of the soundness of the principle. What was inaugurated by former Boards of Curators will, I doubt not, be followed up by the enlightened gentlemen who compose the present Board. Indeed, as the President of the Board of Regents, I feel, that I am not the less speaking their sentiments than my own. The magnitude of the work committed to us cannot well be exaggerated. Why cannot we accomplish in this great North-west, with such abundant sources of Public Wealth and in a state of profound peace, what Douza and his colleagues accom- plished for Leyden in the midst of the exhaustion and horrors of war ? What Frederick William and Fichte accomplished for Prussia when their country was trodden down by the armed heel of the invader ? ! it is not possible for us to calculate how beauti- ful and rapid may be the the developments of a wise, adequate and united action ! Nor can we penetrate that future of glory which, by a law of heaven, shall be unfolded from the institutions which we plant to-day — the harvests that will be reaped by the coming gen- erations from the seeds which earnest and holy hands are now sow- ing in the soil of freedom. Believe me, that the eyes of the nation are upon us — nay, the 16 eyes of the friends of learning and education, in other nations. — This young University is a son of the morning — the light bearer of the great Sun of Knowledge which is rising upon the Empire of the West. When I was last in Paris that distinguished philosopher, and friend, and promoter of education, Victor Cousin, after enquiring respecting our State and the condition and promise of our Univer- sity, turned to Professor Ampere and remarked with an emphatic tone, and beaming eye, "It is a great destiny to plant philosophy in that vast region of the West !" It is a great destiny. The men who engage wisely and faithfully in building up this Univer- sity will have their names written in a proud and imperishable history. I have alluded to mistakes to be avoided that our work may not be marred or impeded. We have avoided one grand and fatal mistake, in not misconceiv- ing the true character of a University, and the means by which alone its development is possible.^ There are three others to which in all honesty, fidelity and plain- ness, I would now call your attention. These' three mistakes would be the introduction of political partizanship and aims, local jeal- ousies and competitions, and sectarian prejudices and demands into the management of the Uni\'ersity. I would here remark at the outset, that I am not aware of a single fact in the past management of the University which indi- cates any influence from these sources in the Board of Regents. However these gentlemen have been elected, by whatever political party, from whatever part of the State, out of the bosom of whatever religious denomination, they have always seemed to me, to forget political, local, and religious connections in this common State inter- est, and to look steadily at the responsibilities of the great trust reposed in them, by a people alike interested in the cause of educa- tion. There is certainly no more honorable office in the gift of the peo- ple, or one more grateful to a noble and proper ambition. These influences perhaps, are more liable to exist in the body of the people than elsewhere, and to produce their effect by an out- 17 feide pressure, I vrould remark, too, that in speaking of them I have reference to what may occur, rather than to anything which hai already occurred. I would speak in a strain of premonition as to the future, rather than in a strain of rebuke as to the past. The University, as strictly as the common schools, belongs to th« entire people. Politics can never be admitted to influence its appointments and measures, for two plain reasons. First, in its nature it haa nothing to do with politics. It is an institution constituted not for political movements, but for the advancement of science and litera- ture ; and for the education of youth in science and literature, and not in the doctrines and arts of political parties. To divert it from the one object to the other would be to destroy it. Secondly, it being essential to its success to procure the most able professors, no respect can be had to political sympathies, but purely to scientific and literary qualifications. To make appoint- ments on any other principles, would be to destroy the standard of scholarship, to change it from a literary to a political institution, to introduce conflict and confusion, and to explode it as an ill-begotten experiment. The tendency of local jealousies is either to destroy a com- mon and hearty interest in its welfare, to prevent a common union in promoting its interest, and to narrow it from a State to a sec- tional institution, or to institute measures for dividing and distrib- uting its departments and resources. The first evil is that of reducing it from greatness to insignificance by shutting it up within narrow bounds. The second evil is the destruction of a force, by dispersion, which can exist only by concen- tration. Waters collected in one deep channel may turn a thousand mills, which if divided in a thousand channels may be insufficient to turn one. The very idea of a University is that of concentrating books and apparatus, and learned men in one place. All branches of human learning are cognate, and require for their successful prosecu- tion, cordial co-operation and mutual support. Nay, they are logic- ally interdependent, so that to separate them would be to render their development impossible. The relations existing between the branches of knowledge symbolize the relations of the professors and 3 18 studeuts in tbeae branches. Together they form a learned society, the members of which operate upon each other by the communica- tion of ideas in daily converse, by the force of example, and by the excitement of noble and generous competition. We have seen how highly the University of Leyden rated the effects of this association in the efforts which they made to secure merely the residence of Joseph Scaliger, and after him, of Salmasius, at Leyden, that both professors and students might be guided and stimulated by their conversation and example. No one can visit Berlin, in our day^ without perceiving that a certain grace, dignity and inspiring influence exist there from the presence of the illustrious Humboldt —the unrivalled model of a scientific man. Merely to see him, quickens one's intellectual nature ; and only a brief conversation with him leaves an ennobling impression never to be forgotten. I do not wish to speak with severity of those who may differ frora^ me in opinion; nor does it become me to impugn any man's motives. But I certainly have a right to state what I believe to be an in- disputable fact, that no true University has ever yet been estab- lished by a distribution of its parts in different localities ; and that none of those great men who have hitherto created these institutions, and whom the world accounts an unquestionable authority on this subject, have ever attempted it. If you remove one department from the common locality, you admit the right and possibility of removing other departments. If you find reasons for removing the Medical Department to Detroit, you may find reasons for establishing the Law Department at Lan- sing. The Upper Peninsula, from its abundant mineral resources, and its geological indications, may claim to be the proper seat of the Department of Greology and Mineralogy : The vast northern forests of the lower Peninsula would offer great facilities for Botany and Zoology : The island of Mackinaw might be deemed a beau- tiful location for the Observatory : The professor of Greek might be tempted by the Arcadian beauty of the banks of the St. Joseph, at Niles : The professor of Latin might find something to remind him of the Roman energy in the enterprising character of Grand Rapids : The professor of History might be charmed to Monroe by the historical associations which cluster on the banks of the Raisin : The professor of Matlicraatics micht find attractions in his old 19 associations amonw the lakes of Pontiac : The rural shades of Pinck- ney have not lost their hold upon the imagination of the professor of Modern Language? : Grand Haven might claim the professor of Chemistry : The sylvan beauty of Kalamazoo might seem fit haunts for Belles Lettres and the fine arts : and Physics and Civil Engineering might be divided between the thriving towns of Mar- shall and Jackson. An equitable division of books and apparatus might also be made. Then the President in solitary dignity might extend his gardens into the College Campus without rebuke ; and unmolested lead about his class in philosophy, and rival the great Stagyrite in practical peripateticism. Ptoom too, he would have in abundance, for the accommodation of the professors in their occa- sional visits, and for the learned men of other countries, who, attracted by our fame, should come to search out the University of Michigan. Some of us, however, notwithstanding the brilliancy and charms of these novel experiments, may deem it less hazardous to listen to the teachings of experience, and to yield to the authority of well established precedents. Much has already been done by adhering to the principle of concentration. We see much more that can be undertaken, on this principle, with the surest prospects of success. The University in its present location has been found quite accessible to the youth both of our State and of other States. Local jealousies, if they have existed, 'must soon subside before a generous common sense. Every part of Michigan will recognise the University as its own ; and even Ann Arbor itself as the seat of this common possession, will come to be regarded as in some sort belonging to the people of the State. Least of all do I apprehend that Detroit will be ambitious of taking possession of one of the Departments of the University, when I behold on yonder hill a work of her own liberality consigned to this locality. She has enriched and adorned the University with an Observatory ; she has given it her name ; but she has not lopped it from the parent stem. And her iutelliaient citizens have doubtless well considered that although a Medical College might be planted there, as such Colleges Lave been planted in other cities, yet the mere name of the Univer- sity could give it no real elevation above others of the same class, while cut ofi" from a vital connection with it ; and while removed from that circle of learned association which alone supplies to «■ 20 University school, in any of the profeesions, a real distinction and a higher character in comparison with those isolated schools which are merely private establishments. Foregoing then all doubtful and impracticable questions, let us consider the location of the Univer- sity as a point determined, and, with a hearty union, bend our efforts to perfect all its departments, by enlarging the means of in- struction, by introducing higher standards of scholarship, and by increasing fidelity and devotion to the noble work we have under- taken. In the fable of the bundle of twigs we are taught how each twig taken separately may be broken by an infant's hand ; while all bound firmly together may bid defiance to a giant's strength. The third evil to be avoided is sectarian prejudices and demands in the management of the University. In an institution professedly belonging to a particular religious denomination, or belonging to the State where a State religion exists, a Theological Faculty can be established as freely as any other. — Here of course the authorised tenets will be taught. But it would be a great and manifest mistake, even in such an institution, to introduce religious any more than political tests in the appointment of professors. Professors in every department should be men of pure and honorable characters. This is essential indeed, no less, in po- litical appointments, or in men entrusted with commercial responsi- bilities. But beyond this, in the appointment of professors, refer- ence should be had only to scientific and literary qualifications, and aptitude to teach. It is indispensable to a teacher in any branch of science or literature, that he should be master of the branch which he professes to teach. However amiable his character, however pure his religious or political creed according to the judgement of any sect or party, if he have not the requisite literary or scientific qualifications, he is of no account. It is on this common sense prin- ciple that we select a physician, a lawyer, a mechanic, a laborer of any description ; and it would be the height of infatuation to reject it in the appointment of professors. Nor, would the insti- tution in question avoid the error by adopting the principle of select- ing the best man of one's own sect or party ; for it might often happen that the best man of the sect or party would not be the best man for the vacant chair; and some man of extraordinary ability, and whose accession would bring incalculable strength and reputa- 21 tion to the institution would be set aside. There is no safe princi- ple but that of looking directly at the qualifications of the individ- ual, relatively to the chair to be filled. Hence the most eminent Universities have ever been governed by this principle : and it would be easy to show from the history of Universities, that wherever the opposite principle has been adopted, it has brought barrenness and mediocrity into the professorial corps. We have seen that even Roman Catholic institutions have adopted this wise principle, and like the Universities of Padua and Pisa, above referred to, have by it, rendered themselves illustrious. In institutions of our own country belonging to particular sects, their usefulness and prosperity have been in proportion to their lib- erality. Take Yale College as an example — an institution, with the exception of Harvard, more fully developed than any institu- tion in our country. Yale College belongs to the Cougregation- alists ; it has a Theological Faculty, and a chaplain and preacher of its own order ; and yet there is no sectarian exclusiveness in the appointment of professors in departments outside of the theological, and no sectarian pressure in its interior discipline and management. It cannot be said of Yale that it has been devoted to the interests of congiegationalism, or that it has tended to extend Congregation- alism. The country does not think of it as a sectarian institution. It attracts attention and is valued generally for its educational ben- efits. Let it but change its policy and become intensely sectarian, and its glory would depart. Now it is resorted to by youth of all denominations, from all political parties,, and from every section of the country. North and South, East and West ; and it presents the largest number of students of any college or University of the United States. Indeed Yale College derives no benefit from being attached to a particular sect, save the privilege of establishing a Theological Faculty. Every sect has the right of establishing its own institutions : but no such institution can arise to eminence, or gain large success, by making the promotion of sectarian interests its great aim. Let any one carefully examine the institutions of our country, and he will find the above assertion fully sustained. Hence we find the sectarian institutions, so called, tending more and more to a liberal 22 policy. The genius of our country demands, that if sectarian in name, they should not be so in their educational organization and procedures. One is led by the consideration of these facts to enquire why sectarian colleges or universities exist, at all, where no Theological Faculty is established ? Their origin is very easily accounted for. In England the Universities proper of Oxford and Cambridge fell into disuse; and the Colleges, which were private and special endow- ments, originally designed to furnish board and lodging to Theolog- ical students, and eventually came to have teachers attached to them, supplanted the former as educational institutions. Thus Oxford and Cambridge merged into collections of Colleges under ecclesiastical control. It was natural therefore, that when a University was established at Cambridge, Massachusetts, it should begin with a college after the English form. This precedent was followed as other similar institutions came into being. Besides, all education in our country began under the patronage of religious sects, or of individuals be- longing to these sects. Men who emigrated to this country from religious principles, naturally connected all their institutions both educational and political, with their peculiar church organi- sation. But it did not follow, because, this connection was originally demanded, or could not be avoided, on account of the peculiar exi- gencies of the times, that it was to continue when these exigencies had passed away. Hence, in time, the Church and State came to he separated ; and education in the common schools, at least, came to be separated from the Church also. This movement has pro- ceeded farther and farther; and we now have not only common schools, but also High Schools and Academies, Normal Schools, and iCTen many Colleges and Universities, removed from particular eccle- siastical connections. Indeed, it is hard to perceive any necessity for such a connection in any instance, save where a sect desires to create a Theological Fac- ulty. If it be said that Colleges and Universities require to be under religious control, and this can be best secured by a particular jdenominational connection, the argument proves too much. For •trhy is not the same demanded for Common Schools, Union Schoolfii, r>' 3 High Schoola, Academies, Normal Schools, and the various private institutions? Nay, the lower schools, and especially the common schools, would seem to demand the very highest conditions for reli- gious influence, since in tJiese^ pupils are received at the most impressible period of human life, and when the strongest bent is given to character and habits. It is on this very ground that the Roman Catholics have claimed the control of the apportionment of school money falling to their children. They say, we deem it essential io educate our children under those religious influences which our consciences approve of. Now, are we consistent, if we deny the necessity of denominational control in our common schools, and indeed in many other schools below the College and the University^ but the moment we reach this highest grade of education, claim it as essential? If the State is competent to establish, and to provide for the management of Common, Union and Normal Schools without denom- inational interference, why is it not competent to do the same with respect-to Colleges and Universities ? And if the religious interests of the former can be secured under State organization, why not of the latter ? Besides, as a matter of fact, we cannot perceive what peculiar religious discipline is exercised in denominational institutions which does not exist elsewhere, unless these institutions should take rigid measures for the inculcation of their peculiar tenets. In this case their pupils could be derived only from their own communions, and they would become exceedingly limited in their sphere of opera- tion. This, we know, they do not generally attempt, but aiming to afi"ord education in science and literature, leave the conscience unfettered, and establish only a moral and religious discipline which shall commend itself to the community generally without dis- tinction of sect. And this is the very discipline which is introduced into State institutions, and into institutions generally which are not denominational. We come now to consider the University of Michigan under its moral and religious aspects. First, as to the appointment of professors. If the principle we have above laid down, that the appointment of professors to chairs of literature and science, to all chairs, at 2-t least, outside of the Theological, is to be made independently alike of political and religious tests, and solely in reference to literary and Bcientific qualifications, and aptitude to teach, and that too in institutions professedly attached to particular religious denomina- tions ; and if the example not only of Protestant Leyden, but also of Roman Catholic Padua and Pisa is worthy of all commendation, and its wisdom attested by its brilliant success ; then, when we come to the "University of Michigan," established as a State institution on a fund provided by the General Government for no other purpose than that of promoting science and literature, and advancing educa- tion, and whose great object is declared to be, in the first ordinance of the State passed in reference to it, and approved March 18, 1837, "to provide the inhabitants of the State with the means of acquir- ing a thorough knowledge of the various branches of literature, science, and the arts;" then, I say, when we come to this institu- tion, the principle of regulating appointments by qualifications, alone, cannot fail us. Here, if any where, political and religious tests must be utterly abolished, nor even a shadow of them appear. All sects and parties, every individual in the State would proba- bly agree to this general statement. But a plan has somehow sprung up, and in one or two instances been acted upon, which, on the one hand, by proclaiming the equal rights of all religious denom- inations in University appointments seems to avoid exclusiveness ; while on the other hand, in the very attempt to adjust these rights, it involves us in all the evils of denominational tests. For, on this plan, wherever a chair is to be filled, instead of confining ourselves to the considerations of the literary and scientific qualifications of the candidates, and their aptitude to teach, we must raise two addi- tional enquiries; first, to which of the denominations does the appointment about to be made, of right belong? and secondly, which of the candidates possesses the requisite denominational quali- fications ? Now, it is plain, that in both these questions, we depart from the true principle before vindicated ; and that were this plan once adopted, every appointment afterwards made to the University would be governed by some denominational test. But this would not be the only evil we should have to encounter. There would be the evil of denominational jealousy and competition. How would it be possible to adjust these denominational rights ? Which denom- 25 iuutiou tjiiall have the largest number of professors V fejhall it be determiued by the numbers, the wealth, the political influence, or the educated intelligence of the Beet? Or, shall the same number bo distributed alike to all the sects ? But some professorships may be regarded as more influential than others; and the full professor- ship would generally be regarded as taking precedence of the assist- ant. Then how many assistant professorships shall be considered C(|uivalent to one full professorship V Shall it be two or one and a half? How shall we determine the relative importance of the full professorships ? Which sect shall have the right to nominate the President? Or shall it be given to all in rotation ? And shall he bo elected for a limited term of years ? Then again, it must be determined how far the power of the sects shall extend : Shall they have the power to make all nominations; or shall the Regents be re(pired to elect the proper number from each sect ? Or will each sect be satisfied with one representative, and leave the Regents to elect the remainder according to their pleasure ? Or suppose the rights of some sects have hitherto been neglected, as for example, the Roman Catholics, who have not at present a single professor in the University — indeed the same is true with respect to the Dutch Reformed, the Unitarian, Univcrsalist, and it may be other denomi- nations — and that one or all of these should come forward and claim their rights when the chairs are all filled ; would this difficulty be removed by creating new chairs, or by vacating some of the chairs already filled in order to make way for what may be demanded as an equitable adjustment ? When once we admit the principle of denominational represen- tation, we can exclude no denomination. When once we allow denominational interference, every denomination has an equal right to interfere. We must hear all : we must attend to all : and we must enter upon the impracticable task of satisfying all. And then this impracticable and unproductive work of endeavoring to har- monize the conflicting claims of numerous sects, ever prone to be- come more and more inflamed by competition, and rendered more and more unreasonable, will absorb the attention and labors of the Regents, instead of the practicable, legitimate, and noble work of cccuriug for the University eminent professors, and providing them 4 36 with the means of fulfilling their functions, and carrying oufc the ends of public instruction. And when these representatives of the different Beets are intro- duced into the University, acknowledged and known in this capa- city, then the question arises, how they are to act out this represen- tative capacity, and to maintain the interests of the bodies which they represent ? Shall they all remit the peculiarities of their respective sects, and endeavor to stand upon certain principles in which they all agree ? Then there will, in reality, be no represen- tation of sects, and the ends of the whole arrangement become null and void. Shall each one assert his sectarian peculiarities ? Then will the University be split into conflicting parties, and the profes- sors be found heading their respective clans, and instead of an in- stitution "providing the inhabitants of the State with the means of acquiring a thorough knowledge of the various branches of literature, science, and the arts," we shall have a grand gymnasium where Catholics and Protestants, the orthodox and the heterodox, engaged in endless logomachies shall renew Milton's chaos — " A unirersal hubbub wild Of stunning sounds and voices all confused." Better, far better, than to run the hazard of such confusion and ruin, would it be to consign the University to any one denomination, Catholic, or Protestant, animated by the noble spirit of Padua, Pisa, or Leyden. One alone possessing it, might be generous and enlighten- ed ; a number attempting to share its functions, and divide its spoils, would only rend it in pieces. But egregiously do those mistake the character and ends of this institution who imagine that, because, it belongs to no sect or party in particular, it therefore belongs to all sects and parties conjointly, and of equal right. It not only does not belong to any sect or party in particular ; it belongs to no sect or party at all. It belongs to the people of this State simply as the people of the State. The deed of trust by which it was founded, the ordinance by which its objects are defined, makes no allusion to Catholic or Protestant, to Presbyterian, Methodist, Episcopalian, Baptist, Congregationalist, Unitarian, Uuiversalist, or any other religious denomination. It speaks not of political pai-ties ; it refers to no particular localities : It speaks only of the State of Michi- gan, or of the people of thy the constitution and organic law, appoint the President and Professors of the University, manage its funds and direct its affairs generally. They arc the proper, and legal, and only curators. All their doings, and the doings of the President and Professors under them, including' the receipts and expenditures of all monies, are, according to law, fully embodied in a report to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, who prints the same, lays it before the legislature, and sends it abroad among the people. In addition to this a Board of Visitors is appointed by the Superintendent, who have full power and opportunity to exam- ine into the condition of the University, and who make n report of the same. In these ways the people arc made fully accjuaintcd 28 with tlie affairs of the University, annually, hy its responsible and known guardians) and visitors. The President and Professors aro entrusted with the infitruction and discipline of the Institution according to a system of by-laws on- acted by the Regents. They fulfill their duties when they faith- fully obey and administer these laws. They are directly accounta- ble only to the Regents, and through them to the people of the State. No political association, no ecclesiastical body, and no association whatever, secular or religioiis, have any authority to prescribo to tho Faculty, to interfere with their functions, or to call them to account. The State has determined their responsibilities. The right of prescription, interference, or of any control conceded to one religious body would involve a concession of the same to all similar bodieg. What is conceded to the Protestants, the Catholics may equally claim. What is conceded to the Methodists or Pres- byterians, all other protestant sects may equally claim. Nay, what is conceded to religious sects must be conceded also to those who belong to no sect. We might thus have various codes of morals, various rules of discipline, and conflicting laws of duty : And we certainly should have little independence or discretion. The institution has laws stringently enforcing faithful study, good order, and good morals. With respect to religious duties, every student is required to attend public worship on the Sabbath in whatever church his parent or guardian shall direct. In addition to this, the Faculty are required to have daily prayers for the students. — The duty of conducting prayei'S is not imposed particularly upon the President, or upon any member of the Faculty. How and by whom the duty shall be performed is left under tho direction of that body. Now if the Faculty faithfully fulfill these laws in respect to reli- gious services, no one has a right to find fault with them. If more services, or difi"erent services are required, the Regents aro the proper authority to order them. In a strictly sectarian College or University, the President and professors, if ordered by the body to whom it belongs, to inculcate their creed, and to abide by their ecclesiastical organization, may ^ indeed, be compelled to move in a contracted sphere, but they will 29 liave a clearly defined position, and need never ]>e in doubt as to the religious management of the institution. l?ut if a Stato Uni- versitj, in belonging to no sect in particular, is consigned to all the sects, to be censured, dictated to, and called to account at their pleasure, it will only serve to exemplify the fable anew, where an attempt to please every body ended in pleasing nobody, and made the actors supremely ridiculous. The only practical alternative is that of committing an institution of learning to one sect, or to none at all. Stato institutions, of course are committed to none at all. From the liberal course which the Colleges and Universities, attached to particular denominations in our country, have generally pursued, led on by the generous and elevated spirit of learning, or influenced by our free political institutions and public opinion, I find on a comparison of the rules of our State University respect- ing religious services and moral discipline, with those of the lead- ing denominational institutions, no important difi'erenco whatever. All alike inculcate strict morality and honorable conduct : all aliko require a daily attendance upon prayers ; all alike require an atten- dance upon divine worship on the Sabbath : And those institutions, such as Yale and Harvard, which have a University preacher of the denomination, excuse those students whose parents or guardians request it, from attendance on the College Chapel, in order tha* they may attend the services of churches which have their prefer- ence- This is all that the best regulated, the most popular, the most influential and successful institutions of our country undertake to do, whether they be denominational or not ; and this is just what the University of Michigan undertakes to do. These services man- ifestly x-equire no particular denominational superintendence, and no infusion of the particular tenets of any sect. Far less do they require the mutually jealous and necessarily conflicting superinten- dence of many sects. It would be a portentous distinction to draw between a denominational and a State institution, that the first is under the control of one sect ; the other under the control of all sects ; that the first is embalmed in the brotherly love, and defended by the watchful jealousy of one sect ; the other divded among the opposing interests, or thrown as a prize among the rampant compe titious of all. 80 The presence of benign and charitable religion should pervade the hearts, and hallow the hands of men in all human organizations and offices ; but it does not thence follow that the object of all is directly to inculcate religious doctrines and duties. It were well that all our legislators, judges, and State officers generally, as well as our men of business, were religious men. Heavenly thoughts and prayerful habit.s would be great safeguards of virtue and pledgea of integrity everywhere. It would be exceedingly desirable that all teachers from a common school teacher, to a University professor, should be men of piety. But the prime object of a seminary of learning is not like that of a church, to inculcate religion or per- form its services ; but, to afford education. If wo are content in our common schools with proper fitness to teach the required branches, and a good moral character, why demand denominational qualifications in the higher institutions ? And why force the church into the State University any more than into our hails of leg- islation or on the bench of judges ? The Regents of the University have ever regarded themselves as State officers, and not as the representatives of special religious or political interests. I believe their proceedings will defy scrutiny on this point. In only one instance within my knowledge has an appointment been made with reference to denominational connections. Before I left New York to take charge of the University, I was informed by a member of the Board of Regents, that the Board deemed it expedient to fill Profcsssor Whedon's place from his own denomination. When I arrived in Michigan, I was advised with by highly respectable gentlemen in Detroit and Ann Arbor, belonging to that denomination, on the subject. I found that such an expec- tation existed. The consequence was, through my own instrumen- tality, Professor Haven was elected. He was a gentleman who I had reason to believe, possessed the requisite professorial qualifica- tions. His denominational connection was to me no objection. — Indeed, neither in his case, nor in that of any other professor elected, was it to me a matter of any personal consideration. The appoint- ment proved satisfactory to all parties ; and never, during his resi- dence with us, did I feel that he was a denominational representa- tive ; I regarded him as a truly liberal man as well as an efficient officer. 31 But farther reflection made it perfectly plain to mc tliat the" principle of denominational representation could never with safety bo adopted. I found from the public prints as well as from various conversations that the idea was getting abroad that appointments were to bo made on that principle, A clergyman of another denom- ination wrote me a letter, bringing before me the claims cf tho body to which he was attached. It was evident that tho experi- ment ought never to be repeated. Should a precedent bo once established, there would be no end to the difficulties and evils in which we would become involved. I bclievo the Begents were unanimously of the same opinion. One thing ia certain, no appoint- ment has since been made with any reference to denominational connection. After Dr. Brunuow reached Ann Arbor, I for the first time asked him whether he were a Catholic or a Protestant, when he informed me that he was a Lutheran protestant. Dr. Haven, who brought Professor Winchell's name before the Board of Be- genta, affirmed that he was ignorant of his denominational connec- tion. Prof. Frieze was known to be an Episcopalian, but he was elected through the instrumentality of Prof. Boise, himself a Bap- tist. Dr. Ford and Prof. Wood were elected while we were entirely ignorant of their denominational connections. Messrs. Clarke and Brooks, alumni of the University, were known to be Methodists, but this did not, as I am aware, have the least influence in their ap- pointment as assistant professors. Messrs. Peck and Trowbridge Were elected without any knowledge on our part of their religious predilections. Mr. White, although known to be an attendant in the Episcopal Church, was elected on the recommendation of the Congregational president, and, among others, of Congregational clergymen and professors at New Haven, who valued him so highly that they were desirous of having a chair of History endowed for him in Yale College. As for myself, my name was first brought before the Begents, without any knowledge of the fact on my part, by George Bancroft who is not a presby terian, and until of late has been accounted a Unitarian. Sure I am that I was not elected for my presbytcrianism. I have always disclaimed, as I now disclaim, being the representative of my sect, in the University. I should deem myself wholly unfit for my place, were I willing to be considered in that light. As the Presi- dent of the University of Michigan, I claim to be an officer of the Htate. 1 hiivc been ciilled here by uo eccle«iastical body ; and a.- I'resideut of the University, I am accountable to none. I have been appointed under an express provision of the Constitution. I have been appointed by Regents elected by the people. I am accountable directly to them, and to the people through them. As to religious duties in the University, there is nothing specially assigned to the President. The execution of the requirement that the students shall attend Divine Worship on.tho Sabbath, and the jiiaintaining of daily prayers are not committed particularly to the President. The ordinance of the University requires these duties of the Faculty and consequently of the President only as one of the Faculty. The Faculty, however, have by common consent committed the daily prayers to the President. The manner of per- forming this duty has been left entirely to himself, and I am not aware that he has not, fully met the approbation both of the Faculty and tbe Regents. The religious duties imposed upon the President and Faculty by the Regents, are all that can be required of them as officers of the Institution. * But the question here arises are there any additional duties which, as private christians they can with propriety exercise towards the students committed to them ? There, certainly, are various ways in which religious instruction can be given; by graceful and apt episodes in the class room when the subject naturally suggests them ; by employing scientific truths to illustrate natural theology ; by the easy familiarity of daily converse opened by the relation of teacher and pupil ; by visitations in sickness ; by rendering themselves ac- cessible to the students as religious advisers ; by habitually manifest- ing a parental interest in them ; by maintaining the attitude of experienced and earnest friendship ; by a pure and upright example ; and by the exercise of all those tender charities which are as remote from sectarian bigotry, they are near the vital heart of Christi- anity. Separate from the institution the spirit of denominational and / proselytism ] and you can admit the gospel under its purest, most benignant and redeeming aspects. Indeed, in a State institution of learning, where youth who have been nurtured under every variety of religious opinion are congregated, the strict inculcation of the 33 peculiarities of any one sect would be far less successful than d familiar teaching of those fundamental principles of the gospel, which are generally admitted. Hence that very religious influence which alone is admissible in a State University, would be that which, in its very nature, is calculated to do most good. But no specific rules can be laid down on this subject : every thing^will depend on the good sense, truthfulness, and tact of the teacher him- self. The part of the Regents is, to take the utmost pains to pro- cure professors who are qualified for their office, and then to trust to their uprightness and discretion ; always, of course, holding in reserve the power to check imprudence, and to correct evils. In- deed a well selected body of professors will so assimilate as to check and regulate each other. Since I have been acquainted with the University of Michigan, there has been an entire harmony on religious subjects among both professors and students. Denominationalism and proselytism have not appeared among us, and yet much healthful religions influence has been exerted — as much I believe as in any other institution of learning; and with consequences no less marked and happy As to myself I may be permitted to say that I have con- scientiously endeavored to make the daily religious services as effective as possible. Beyond this, at the Sabbath morning prayers, I have always given brief practical remarks drawn from the passage read. And on Sabbath afternoon, I have generally given a lecture either on natural theology, or the evidences of Christianity, or morals, or on some point of practical Christianity. Attendance on this lecture has always been at the option of the students. This lecture has also been open to the public. I have never learned that either the professors, the students, or the public have charged me with any appearance of sectarianism or proselytism. If in any religious efibrts on the part of the professors or myself beyond what is prescribed by the University ordinance, there have been any improprieties or excess, we are open to correc- tion and restraint from the Regents — the legal guardians of the University. But while we hold ourselves amenable to the Regents, we claim exemption from the authority of all ecclesiastical bodies, either as imposing on us duties, restraining our actions, or censur- ing our measures. Legally, such bodies have no right to extend 5 34. their authority over ns in any way : Morally, they have no power to aid us, from the very fact that what one attempts all have an equal right to attempt; and that therefore as tlieir advice or pre- scriptions would not be likely to harmonize, their interference would only serve to confuse and embarrass us. One of the most effectual ways of promoting religion among the students is to afford every encouragement to their voluntary associ- ations for religious purposes, such as the Student's Christian Asso- ciation, and the Christian Library Association. The latter is espe- cially to be commended to Christians of all denominations, and to all persons desirous of aiding the best interests of the Institution. — G-ive us religious books : Give us as freely as you please. Give us the noble works of the old English Divines — of the established church and of the Dissenters. Give us the excellent works of our /American Divines of all Schools. There the books will stand, open to the choice of the students. Each one can consult his own taste and peculiarities ; and all can profit by the spirit of Christianity nobly diffused through so many channels. Perhaps an opportunity thus afforded of consulting the choice works of the great and good men of all parties will lead many a mind to adopt the grand and Cath- olic sentiment of Cyprian : "The Church is one, which by reason of its fecundity is extended into a multitude, in the same manner as the rays of the sun, however numerous, constitute but one light ; and the branches of a tree, however many , are attached to one trunk, which is supported by its tenacious root ; and where various rivers flow from the same fountain, though moisture is diffused by the redundant supply of waters, unity is preserved in their origin." "■ The University as an institution of the State, open to all the peo- ple of the State, and affording to them the means of the highest education, is a symbol of the essential union of all religious sects, and of all political parties. We are all Christians, we are all Amer- ican citizens. Whatever may be our differences, we have a common agreement — a common interest in the great subject of education. — It is the part of wisdom to preserve the University intact from the questions on which we difier, and to maintain and foster it purely as an educational institution. The Regents and Faculty may have their own opinions on politics, their own attachments for the sects \to which they severally belong, their own views on questions oi 35 moral reform These as men, and as American citizens, they claim to entertain in perfect freedom, without any interference, or any rebuke. But they would violate the trust reposed in them, did they allow these to influence their measures in respect to the Univer- sity. The groat principle in respect to the management of the Univer- ^iity is very plain, and commends itself to the common sense of every one ; and that is, that it is to be left to the Regents who are ap- pointed by the people for that purpose, and who make an annual report of their doings which every one may read. The irresponsi-' ble reports of newspaper writers who write under fictitious names ;l and who when they do not manufacture, like scavengers, collect gossip, are of little worth, except they be regarded as humorous ad- vertisements of the University. It is to be presumed that the people of Michigan know the difference between fancy sketches drawn at a distance, and facts and statistics given over the signatures of the legal guardians whom they have themselves elected. The Univer- sity of Michigan has nothing to be ashamed of, and nothing to con- ceal. There is nothing that it desires more than to be fully known to the people to whom it belongs. If there be any individuals who are not satisfied with the reports of the Regents, let them come and examine for themselves, and take sufficient time to make themselves acquainted with the University in all its departments. Let them come and introduce themselves to the President and Professors, and every facility will be afforded them. Let them not merely walk through the grounds, but let them visit the Library, the gallery of Fine Arts, the Museum, the Laboratory, the Observatory, and attend the lectures of the Professors and the examinations of the students. Every thing^here is open to the public eye. Si monu- mentum quaeris, circumspice — Do you ask for the evidences of our doings, look around. Here are laid the stable foundations of a magnificent institution. Nay, here already exists an institution of which any people might be proud. Only let there be a hearty union, enlightened councils, and an honorable appreciation. Let political and sectarian jealousies and competitions never invade us. Let all idle (questions of partition and removal be laid forever. — We have greater work to do than to discuss them. Let the peo- ple see that the State University, like the State Capitol, must have 36 some fixed location ; and that as the last is is not the Capitol of Lansing because it is planted there; so neither is this the Univer- sity of Ann Arbor, because it is planted here. Nay, develope this University to the grand measure which such a name implies, and it will become the attractive centre of so wide a circle, it will shed abroad so far its glorious light, its enkindling influence— that even the title, University of Michigan, will be too limited to character- ize it: it will be the University of the great North-west, it will be one of the great central institutions, which like Leyden, and Padua, and Pisa, in their days of glory, and like Paris, Munich, and Berlin in our own times, are the Universities of Nations,, the fountains of universal civilization. RETURN CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT T0^»^ 202 M ain Library LOAN PERIOD 1 HOME USE ALL BOOKS AAAY BE RECALLED AFTER 7 DAYS 1 -month loans may be renewed by calling 642-3405 6-month loons may be recharged by bringing books to Circulation Desk Renewals and recharges may be made 4 days prior to due date DUE AS STAMPED BELOW Al]T0mAPR23 91 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY FORM NO. 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