Intelligence having been received of the death, on the 30th of January last, of Asa Gray, LL. D., first professor in this University, and afterwards Fisher Professor of Natural History in Harvard University, the Board of Regents in view of the services rendered to this institution by Dr. Gray, in the judicious selection of books for its library and in other ways, during the period of his professorship here, desire to place on record such an expression of respect and honor as is due to his memory.

Without attempting to recount his many contributions to the stock of human knowledge during his long life of tireless activity in the exposition of scientific truth, or to estimate the influence exerted by his profound knowledge and philosophical acuteness, not only in his special department but also in the discussion of those more difficult problems to which he so wisely and generously contributed, we may be permitted, in common with the wide circle that mourns his loss, to add our voice in honor of this great leader in the intellectual development of the period in which he lived.

Especially do we recall with grateful appreciation his reverent love of truth in every form, his broadly catholic spirit, and the kindly helpfulness long to be remembered by so many who have looked to him as master and friend. We lament his unfinished work, but rejoice that such a man has lived, and we wish to be numbered with those who sincerely mourn his loss and rise up to honor his memory.

To his family and friends we extend our deepest sympathy in this hour of their heavy affliction.

Regents’ Proceedings, Special Meeting 1888, Page 200