Wagner Free Institute of Science

William Wagner was a gentleman scientist and avid collector of natural history specimens. After retiring from business as a merchant in 1840, he devoted himself to science. Believing that education in the sciences should be available to everyone, Wagner began offering free lectures on science at his home, Elm Grove, in 1847. Finding that interest in these lectures was strong, in 1855 Wagner founded the Wagner Free Institute of Science and moved the lectures to Spring Garden Hall. In 1859 construction began on a permanent home for his collections and his educational program, which opened to the public in 1865.

From the guide to the William Wagner lectures, 1815-1905, (Wagner Free Institute of Science)

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