Page:The History of the University of Pennsylvania, Wood.djvu/31

Rh ORIGIN OF THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT.

the college of Philadelphia was later in its origin than some similar institutions in the older settlements, it may nevertheless boast the honour of having established a medical school, the first in point of time, as it has always been the greatest in merit and success of all upon this continent. It does not come within the design of the present sketch, to give even a very general account of the rise, progress, and ultimate prosperity of this department of the college, which of itself affords a subject so distinct and copious, as well to deserve a separate and minute consideration. We may, however, be allowed to notice a few circumstances, connected with the earliest period of its history. 4