WISCONSIN, UNIVERSITY OF, at Madison, the capital of the state; organized 1849; reorganized, 1866. It is a state institution, unconnected with any religious denomina tion, and open upon equal terms to students of both sexes. Its object is to provide the means of acquiring a thorough knowledge of the various branches of learning connected with scientific, industrial, and professional pursuits. It consists-1, of the college of arts; 2, the college of letters; 3, such professional and other colleges as may from time to time be added. The college of arts embraces a general science course, and the special technical departments of agriculture, civil engineering, mining engineering and metal lurgy, and mechanical engineering. The college of letters embraces the ancient classical course and the modern classical course. The university has funds amounting to $483,000, and au annual income of over $80,000. Its buildings and grounds (the latter embracing a tract of 210 acres) are valued at $325,000. The library contains about 10,000 vols. The university is provided with extensive and valuable geological and mineralogical cabinets and collections in natural history; also, with well-selected philo sophical and chemical apparatus. There are also chemical, zoological, physical, min
eralogical, and assay laboratories. The machine-shop, amply provided,. gives opportu nities for work in practical mechanics. The astronomical observatory is in use, and will be completely furnished as rapidly as possible. Ladies' ball is an elegant and com modious building, containing a society hall, teachers' room, study and lodging rooms for about 80 students, and ample accommodation for boarding. Military drill is required each day during the spring term, of the young men of the freshman and sophomore classes. A well-furnished gymnasium and two bowling alleys are open to the students at .fixed hours. The university is situated on the shores of lake Mendota, and the stu dents can find relaxation and exercise in boating. Professors (1879-80), 24; other instruc tors, 13; students, 481. John Bascom, D.D., LL.D., is president.