LANCASTER, JOSEPH ( 1778-1838). The founder of the Lancastrian system of instruction, one of the rival systems of monitorial instruction (q.v.). Lancaster was horn in London, and served as a seaman, but, inspired by philan thropy, began the work of teaching without any previous training, and before the age of twenty had more than a thousand pupils under his care. This was made possible by his adoption and im provement of the plan of instruction first formu lated by Dr. Andrew Bell of Madras. and hence also called the sy4em of instruction. Lancaster soon gained the support of some of the nobility, and the Royal Lancastrian Society was formed, schools were establi,hed, and build ings erected. From this grew the British and Foreign School Society, supported by the non conforming churches. which continue, to exist and supports many of the public schools of Eng land, although the Lancastrian ideas have long since been outgrown. Lancaster's ideas had a great vogue in England, and for a time in Hol land, France, and Germany; but, quarreling with his patrons, lie came to the United States. where
lie lectured with success. Ilk ideas were very popular throughout the Eastern and Northern States. Tn New York. Baltimore. and Phila delphia. as well as in smaller communities. this system was generally adopted. After the death of Lancaster, which occurred as the result of an accident in New York City, his family removed to where this educational system was re ceived with great favor, and legislative aid was granted under the control of a national Lan castrian system. The plan was also received with favor in sonic South American countries. The characteristics of the Lancastrian system are given under MONITORIAL SYSTEM. Con sult: Lancaster, Improeements in Education (New York, 1833) ; Gill, System of Education (Boston, 1899).