“ Strange as it may seem, Birmingham, with its immense population is, up to the time we write, without the many advantages which a public scientific establishment, with its libraries, reading-rooms, lecture-theatre, public and class instructions is so well calculated to afford. It is greatly to the honour of the promoters of the Birmingham and Midland Institute that they have determined to wipe off this reproach from their flourishing city and have, without distinction of class or sect, boldly come forward to found an institution the advantages of which can hardly be overrated. ”

“ The design, as may be seen in our View, is exceedingly appropriate, and reflects great credit on the talents of the architect. The interior of the lecture-room is admirably adapted to its purpose and position. It is a matter of regret the funds do not allow the architect a wider field for his exertions. ”

“ In the town the occasion was observed as a holiday—flags, banners, and arches of flowers and evergreens were displayed along the whole route; and thousands of people lined the streets, windows, and house-tops. ”