The New International Encyclopædia/Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences

PHILADELPHIA ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES. An association founded in 1812 for the purpose of furthering the study of the natural sciences and encouraging original investigation in the various fields of physical research. It is the oldest organization in the United States devoted to the encouragement of natural science. Its museum is especially rich in ornithological specimens and fossils, while its collection of shells is the finest in the world. The Jessup foundation provides gratuitous training for a number of young investigators. The society has published a Journal since 1817 and its Proceedings since 1841.