MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEEES,Dec. 13, 1904 - page 284



     The enrollment in she Agriculture course of study is8 large
this year then in any previous year in the history of the col-
lege. From a recent conversation with the Dean of Agriculture
I am satisfied that we have now reached a critical stage in the
development of that course of study. In former years we found
it impossible to excite sufficient interest in Agriculture in-
struction. As a consequence the energies of the institution
were directed to build up those other courses of study into which
students desired to enter.

     Engineering and scientific studies have attracted -iatricula-
tion and there we have built un according to our means. We have
good plants and competent crons of instruction in these subjects.

     It is otherwise however, with Agriculture. Now when the
demand for instruction in subjects relating to th6-orftical and
practical Agriculture and Horticulture is both manifest and we
find ourselves without the necessary means for utilizaling the
wants of applicants for these courses. We have neither the equip-
ments need not the staff of instruction required.. Students come,
but we are not in condition to meet their just expectations.

     This is a serious matter and should not be dismissed by the
Board without careful consideration.

     We are bound to keep faith with the Federal Goverhment and
with our own people even at the expense, if need be, of curtail-
ment in either directions.




Minutes of the Board of Trustees, Dec. 13, 1904 - page 2g5

     We are q uite as much bound to meet the requirements of the
general public in Agriculture as we are in Science and the Me-
chanic Arts. On more than one occasloh I have adverted to this
necessity, but I now, again command it to your careful and serious
consideration. The constitutionality of the appropriation for
increasing revenue made made by the last legislature is now before
the Court of Appeals.

     We have disappointed in the adverse decision rendered by the
Franklin Circuit Court, but hone we fare better in the Appellate
Court. Judge Stout who brought and managed the suit will doubt-
less acquaint the Board with the steps taken to bring the matter
into court and its present status.

     I hear of ominous indications of an unfeuding attack by the
Normal School men, during the session of the next General Assembly,
unon the relation existing between the College and its Normal
Department.

     Resolutions reflecting in very uncomplimentary terms upon the
School were dopted for its alleged unadequat support of the
Normal School were adopted by the State teachers Association which