The weekly Columbian. [volume] (Columbia, Tuolumne Co., Cal.) 1856-1???, 1856-12-20
Circular-TO the Citizens OF Stockton and
the Southern Mines

STOCKTON, Dec. -, 1856
In compliance with call as published in the
Stockton papers, meeting of gentlemen inter-
ested in the Development of the Natural History
of the State. was convened at the County Court
House on Thursday evening, December It'll,
1856
And as the object OF such an organization does
not appear to he generally understood by those
not Immediately identified with it, the associa
ton takes this method of briefly enumerating
some of the benefits and objects OF the enter
prise. and endeavor to show the Importance of
the subjects embraced.
The first and principal object of the society
will be to thoroughly develop the Natural
History of the State generally, but particularly
that OF the Southern Mines:
lst. By securing collection Of the speci-
mems necessary for a Geological Cabinet, from
every portion of the Southern Mines
2d. The collection of specimens in the animal
kingdom-beasts, birds, fishes, shells, reptiles,
insects &c.
Sd. The collection Of Library Of scientific,
historical and agricultural works.
18th. The collection OF Botanical specimens
embracing agricultural products. the various
plants. woods flowers, seeds, fruits, Ne. belong
ing to this department
5th. Exchanges of specimens with other
scientific associations and individuals, through
out the world.
9Th Public Lectures and scientific publica-
tions on different subjects.
The want of such an organization has long
been felt in this section of the State and we
think will be permanent benefit to AL classes
Of society.
In these several departments no portion OF
the world presents richer more inviting
field than that embraced in the I'D hear desg-
mated, heretofore but partially explored and
Astounding in the most diversified and interest
ing productions. it is reasonable that scientific
men in other States should direct their attention
to California. and claim of our own citizens
proper investigation of the ample field which
Providence 81 r.ads out before us.
Not only are the industrial aud pecunary
interests of the State involved in enterprise.
but also the social and moral improvement of
her people. and her reputation in the eyes of an
eXpectant world.
1t is not to the few that we appeal for assis-
lance. but it is hoped and exp cted that every
individual who desires to promote the int rests
of California. and the cause of science, will con-
tribute bis aid by forwarding specimens and
communicating facts in relation to the depart
ments above designated.
Every one has it in his power to do this to
greater or less extent. Let no one then with
hold his aid under the impression that what he
will contribute will be no consequence.
A single specimen may on examination be
found to add a new and important discovery to
natural science.
By ORDER OF THE ASSOCIATION.
rs. j. Republican.
QUERY.-rhe query propounded in the fol-
lowing anecdote is still open for discussion
An itinerant preacher in West Tennessee
would we're frequently, at the close of his ser
mon, ask any member of his congregation, who
might have ''knotty text" to unravel, to spek
if, and he would explain it at once, however
much it might have troubled "less distinguish
ed divines." On one occasion, in large au-
dence, he was particularly pressing for some
one to PROFOUND text. No one presuming to
do 30, he was about to sit down without an
opportunity of showing his learning, when
chap by the door announced that he had a
Bible matter of great coucrrn,' which be des-
ired to be enlightened upon The preacher,
quite animateblY, professed his willingness and
ability, and the congregation was in great
excitement. '.Wh It want to know" said the
outsider, ''is wether Jobs turkey was a hen or
gobler? The expounded looked confused
and the congregation Uttered, as the questoner
capped the climax by exclaiming, in loud
voice 81 fetched him down on the first ques-
ton" From that time forward the practice OF
asking for difficult passages" was avoided.