Engraved-By HJB.HaTl.&om a Daguerrecrtype. 
by H.McBrtdfi. A BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH 
OF 
T. ROMEYN BECK, M.D., LL.D. 
BY 
E. H. VAN DEUSEN, M.D. 
Re-Printed from the New York Journal of Medicine, 
gfeto |wit: 
HOLMAN & GRAY, PRINTERS AND ST E RE 0 T Y PER S, 
CORNER OF CENTRE AND WHITE-STREETS. 
1856. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 
Intimately connected with the later history of nearly 
every department of scientific literature, in this State, is the 
name of Dr. Theodric Romeyn Beck. His family were of 
English descent, but so long settled at Schenectady, that by 
intermarriages there they had become incorporated with the 
Dutch inhabitants. In the probate of the will of his great- 
grandfather, proved at Albany, in 1733, he is described as 
“ Caleb Beck, of the County of Albany, Gent., having, dur- 
ing his life and at the time of his death, goods, rights, and 
credits, in divers places in our provinces.” His grandfather 
was admitted an attorney at law, to practice in all the 
courts at Albany, in the year 1751. His own father, who 
died very early, left his children to the care of his widow, 
the only daughter of the Rev. Derick Romeyn, D.D., then 
pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church at Schenectady, and 
well known as a Professor of Theology in that church. 
The Romeyn family came from Holland and settled in 
New York about the middle of the seventeenth century; 
and among those of them who became distinguished may be 
mentioned the Rev. John B. Romeyn, D.D., who died much 
lamented in New York, in the year 1825, and Dr. Nicholas 
Romayne, one of the founders, and first President of the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons of New York, and President 
of the New York State Medical Society in 1808-9-10-11. 4 
Dr. T. R. Beck was born at Schenectady, New York, on the 
11th day of August, 1791, and was the eldest of five sons, 
all gifted in no ordinary degree. By the death of his father, 
his early care and education, and that of his four brothers, 
devolved upon their widowed mother. In the brilliant 
future and distinguished usefulness of her youthful charge, 
we see the fruit of the piety, intelligence, and energy 
of this truly excellent woman; and as the reward of all 
her care, we find her, in advancing years, the honored 
mother of one of the most talented families in the State. 
Of these five sons, two died early—one a lawyer of great 
promise, at St. Louis, and another, Nicholas F., who deceased 
while holding the office of Adjutant General under De Witt 
Clinton. Of the surviving brothers, Dr. John B. Beck, the 
distinguished author and physician, was for many years Pro- 
fessor of Materia Medica in the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons of New York, and died in that city in 1851. The 
remaining brother, Lewis C. Beck, was no less eminent, and, 
at the time of his decease, two years since, was Professor of 
Chemistry in the Albany Medical College, and occupied the 
same chair in Rutgers College, New Jersey. To the gen- 
eral as well as professional reader the writings of both these 
brothers are well known, while the name of the latter is 
prominently associated with the preparation of the “ Natural 
History of the State of New York,” to which he contributed 
a valuable volume. 
Dr. T. Romeyn Beck acquired the rudiments of his edu- 
cation in the Grammar School at Schenectady, under the 
more immediate supervision of his grandfather, and was 
graduated at Union College in 1S07. Making choice of medi- 
cine as a profession, he soon after commenced his studies 
with Drs. McClelland and Low, at Albany; but, induced by 
the superior advantages offered in the city of New York, he 
subsequently proceeded thither, and entered the office of Dr. 
David Hosack. He attended the lectures of the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, then recently established, and re- 5 
ceived from that institution, in 1811, the degree of Doctor 
in Mhdicine, on which occasion he presented an inaugural 
thesis on the subject of Insanity. 
This dissertation was immediately published, and received 
much merited attention. Although written at a time when 
but few in this country had*devoted themselves particularly 
to the study of Insanity, it exhibits, on the part of its au- 
thor, a full appreciation of the importance of the subject, 
and a very intimate acquaintance with its literature. It is 
now out of print, the limited edition published soon finding 
its way into the hands of permanent possessors. The 
pamphlet contains thirty-four closely printed pages, and is 
inscribed to his uncle, Dr. John B. Bomeyn, and Dr. David 
Hosack, and presented to his early preceptors, Drs. Low and 
McClelland, “ as the first-fruits of an education commenced 
under their care.” After an introduction, with a brief detail 
of earlier investigations, and the various theories advanced 
by older writers to account for the phenomena of diseased 
mental action, follows a condensed history of the disease, its 
symptomatology, etiology, pathology, prognosis, and treat- 
ment. In subsequent pages the medical jurisprudence of 
insanity is considered, in reference both to the security of the 
public and the proper treatment of the patient. 
This little volume, from the pen of “ one whose opportu- 
nities of viewing the disease had been scanty, and whose in- 
formation was derived principally from books,” exhibits an 
intimate acquaintance with the literature of the subject, and 
the then only partially acknowledged wants of the insane, 
alike creditable to his character as a scholar and to his cor- 
rect judgment, 
Soon after his graduation he returned to the city of Alba- 
ny, opened an office, and commenced the practice of his pro- 
fession. His cultivated taste and studious habits soon brought 
him into intimate relation with the scientific men of his day; 
and as early as 1813 we find his name upon the list of Coun- 
selors of the “Society for the Promotion of Useful Arts,” 6 
in connection with that of De Witt Clinton and others equal- 
ly eminent. This association at that time held a high rank 
in the scientific world, and had enrolled upon its list of mem- 
bership some of the most honored names in the State. It 
was a re-incorporation of the old “Society for the Promo- 
tion of Agriculture, Arts, and Manufactures,” first organized 
in 1791, after the expiration of its charter in 1804. Among 
his earlier and most successful efforts in this new and honor- 
able field, is the annual address, delivered by appointment 
before the Society, at the Capitol, in the city of Albany, on 
the 3rd of February, 1813. This production was more par- 
ticularly directed to the public, its object being the more 
perfect development of the mineral resources of our coun- 
try, or, as is stated in the preface, to exhibit at one view the 
mineral riches of the United States, with their various ap- 
plication to the arts, and to demonstrate the practicability of 
the increase of different manufactures whose materials are 
derived from this source. It is well calculated to awaken 
an increased interest in this important matter, and was re- 
ceived with great favor throughout the Union. 
His valued service in still another field, is beautifully 
acknowledged by Prof. Emmons. In dedicating the Fifth 
Volume of the Natural History of the State of New York 
to Dr. Beck, he remarks : 
“ There is more than one reason why the concluding 
divisions of the present work, undertaken to explore and 
illustrate the Natural History of the State of New York, 
and conducted under Legislative patronage, should be dedi- 
cated to you. You were among the first to foster the enter- 
prise, and remained its consistent advocate in times when 
adverse circumstances seemed to jeopardize its continuance : 
much more than this, your whole life has been assiduously 
engaged in promoting the advance of science, and the spread 
of popular education ; and the published results of your 
scientific and literary labors, may be referred to as reflecting 
an honor upon your native State. Would, that the merits 7 
of the present volume were such as to render it more worthy 
its dedication.” 
In 1814, he married Harriet, daughter of James Caldwell, 
Esq., a well-known citizen of Albany, who died in 1823. He 
has left no son to inherit his name, and only two daughters. 
In 1815, Dr. Beck was appointed Professor of the Insti- 
tutes of Medicine, and Lecturer on Medical Jurisprudence, 
in the College of Physicians and Surgeons of the Western 
District of New York, an institution then in the third year 
of its existence. The proximity of the College to the city 
of Albany enabled him to discharge his professional duties, 
and, at the same time, retain his medical practice, which lie 
continued to do for some time. 
Notwithstanding his many arduous duties, his interest in 
the progress of scientific investigation seems to have been 
unabated, and, in the spring of 1819, he read before the 
Society for the Promotion of the Useful Arts a most elabo- 
rate paper on Alum, which will be found printed with the 
transactions of the Association. A short time previous, he 
found his strength unequal to the laborious duties of his 
profession ; and, on account of his apprehension of ill health, 
and, perhaps, in indulgence of his increasing taste for litera- 
ry pursuits, he abandoned the general practice of medicine 
entirely, and, in 1817, was appointed Principal of the Al- 
bany Academy, an institution collegiate in character, and 
occupying a high literary standing. Teaching was espe- 
cially adapted to his taste ; and under his enlightened man- 
agement, for more than a quarter of a century, the Academy 
unvaryingly maintained a most elevated rank, among similar 
institutions. Dr. Beck continued a Professor at Fairfield 
until the College was dissolved, and, in 1841, became a Pro- 
fessor of Materia Medica in the Albany Medical College, 
the chair of Medical Jurisprudence being already filled. 
This professorship he resigned in 1853, and was then appoint- 
ed Emeritus Professor. 
In 1829, Dr. Beck was elected President of the Medical 8 
Society of the State of New York, and, at the meeting of 
the Society, at Albany, delivered the annual address, on the 
subject of “ Medical Evidence.” Continuing in office sev- 
eral years, he pronounced, on similar occasions subsequently, 
two addresses—one upon “ Medical Improvements,” and the 
other upon “ Small Pox,” all of which will be found in the 
volume of “ Transactions ” for the respective years. 
Since 1851, he has filled the honorable situation of Sec- 
retary to the Board of Regents of the University of the 
State of New York ; and, beside the multiplied duties con- 
nected with that position, has had devolving upon him, as 
ex-ojjicio Secretary to the Trustees of the State Library, a 
large share of its management. The complete and well-ar- 
ranged catalogue of the Library, and the interesting and com- 
prehensive reports of the Board of Regents, bear the impress 
of his untiring application and devotion to the important 
interests over which that distinguished body presides. 
Dr. Beck has always been a man of great and enlightened 
public spirit, ever ready to countenance and promote what- 
ever tended to secure the highest interest of the community. 
This spirit and his natural benevolence have enlisted him 
ardently in the great public charities, either in their estab- 
lishment and organization, or in the subsequent management 
of their affairs. His “ Statistics of the Deaf and Dumb,” 
read before the Medical Society of the State of New York, 
was the fruit of this philanthropy, and was most powerful 
in directing the attention of the public to the wants of this 
afflicted portion of the community. 
Dr. Beck was appointed one of the Managers of the 
New York State Lunatic Asylum, by the act of its organi- 
zation, in April, 1842 ; and has been re-appointed by the 
Governor and Senate, at the expiration of each successive 
tri-annual period until the present time. Upon the death of 
Mr. Munson, in the spring of 1854, he (although a non-resi- 
dent member), was unanimously elected President of the 
Board. The institution has, at all times, had the advantage 9 
of his wise counsels, efficient aid, and ardent devotion, and 
of his presence and immediate co-operation with his asso- 
ciates, whenever demanded by matters of unusual or special 
importance. Here, as well as in all other similar positions, 
he has ever consulted the highest and most enduring good 
of the interests committed to his charge, without regard to 
the prejudices or the more apparent benefits of the hour or 
the day, or any mere personal claims or advantages. His wis- 
dom and experience, his independence, decision and energy, 
and his unflinching integrity, have made him a most valu- 
able guardian of all the affairs of this great public charity. 
It is, however, with Dr. Beck, as a writer, that we have 
at present especially to do, and we will close this sketch by 
a notice of his editorial connection with the Journal of 
Insanity, and his great work on Medical Jurisprudence. 
In April, 1S44, the first number of the American Jour- 
nal of Insanity was issued from the press, occupying an 
entirely new field in the medical literature of this country. 
The generous motive which led Dr. Brigham, its founder 
and first editor, to assume, in addition to his onerous duties 
as Superintendent of a large asylum, the labor and responsi- 
bility of its establishment, is well known to most of our 
readers. To many of his colleagues and professional friends 
he was largely indebted for encouragement, in his under- 
taking, and for much valued and gratefully acknowledged 
assistance : among them, Dr. Beck, who, deeply interested 
in the attainment of the ends at which the Journal aimed, 
warmly seconded his efforts, and, amid many other engage- 
ments, found sufficient time to contribute frequently and 
ably to its pages. After Dr. Brigham’s death, the Managers 
of the State Luna,tic Asylum, aware of the importance to 
any specialty, of a periodical devoted to its advancement 
and interest, assumed the entire responsibility of its pub- 
lication, and, by their unanimous request, induced Dr. Beck 
to edit the ensuing volume. He gave his consent, hoping 
at the close of the year to be relieved of a care which, with 
his other numerous duties, was a heavy tax; but, in the 10 
absence of any other arrangement, he continued to conduct 
it until the close of the last volume, when “ advancing years 
and more imperative duties ” compelled him to relinquish 
his editorial connection. 
In the theme of his inaugural dissertation at the Medical 
College, and in the subject of many of his literary efforts, 
we perceive how early and closely his attention has been 
drawn to insanity and its legal relations. From a know- 
ledge of his character, it is very natural to suppose that this 
interest was awakened, not only by the intrinsic merit of 
the subject, but, also, by the then very general feeling that 
this department of medical literature was indeed most barren. 
How well he succeeded in his effort to supply this deficien- 
cy is evidenced by the multiplied editions of his Medical 
Jurisprudence, which have already been called for. Since 
its first issue from the press, in 1823, in two large octavo 
volumes, of nearly two thousand pages, it has passed through 
five American, one German, and four London editions. The 
favorable reception of this wTork in foreign countries, at a 
time when national feeling in the medical world was stronger 
than at any previous or subsequent period, shows how com- 
pletely its merits disarmed every prejudice. Says a biblio- 
grapher, in a notice of the German edition : “Among the 
numerous and unequivocal evidences of the very high esti- 
mation in which Dr. Beck’s 1Elements of Medical Jurisprudence 
are held by the profession in Europe, their translation into 
the German language must be regarded as the most flatter- 
ing and decisive indication of their true value. In no country 
has this interesting and varied science been prosecuted with 
such unabated zeal, or have so much research and learning 
been elicited on its several curious topics, as in Germany. 
From the time of Zacchias, indeed, to the present day, it has 
been the favorite object of study with German physicians, 
and their opinions of the merits of any treatise on the sub- 
ject are, therefore, entitled to the highest weight and the most 
respectful consideration. Proud are we, therefore, to see 
them prize the performance of our learned countryman so 11 
highly as to deem it worthy of transfusion into their vernac- 
ular tongue. In his native language his work is as yet with- 
out a parallel.” 
His labors in this field did not cease with the publication 
of his great work, but, for many years afterward, besides the 
emendation and supervision of subsequent editions, he con- 
tributed largely upon the same subject to various medical 
periodicals. A distinguished writer, in reviewing a copy of 
the tenth edition, for Hays’ American Journal of Medical 
Science, remarks : “ The pages of this Journal, for years past, 
have borne constant evidence of the untiring and invaluable 
research of Dr. Beck, whose observations and extracts from 
foreign and domestic sources have filled that portion of it 
devoted to medical jurisprudence ; and the writer of the 
present notice bears his testimony to the same effect; for, 
having taken much interest in the subject, and consequently 
had occasion to examine the journals, he found it impossible 
to furnish a single novelty to this department in which he 
had not been anticipated by Dr. Beck.” In both the medical 
and legal periodicals of the day there have, from time to 
time, with successive editions of his work, appeared many 
and varied notices and reviews—flattering evidence of its 
merit, and the high estimation of both professions. From 
some of these it would give us pleasure to extract; but the 
work has already received the stamp of worth, has taken its 
place as high authority, and acquired for itself and its author 
a most extended reputation. 
The greater portion of the preceding sketch of Dr. Beck’s 
professional life was prepared for the American Journal of 
Insanity, on the occasion of his retirement from the more 
active discharge of public duties connected with the specialty 
to which that periodical is devoted. Thus restricted, it 
is necessarily, as a biography, incomplete. In other depart- 
ments of science, his investigations have been no less ex- 
tended, and to other schemes of benevolence, he has as 
generously devoted his energies and rare practical attain- 12 
ments; and though these services, so valuable and so widely 
appreciated, may not be enumerated here, they have found 
a far more enduring record than these pages could afford. 
To Dr. Beck was allowed the gratification of witnessing, 
in a measure at least, the attainment of the important ends 
at which his labors aimed, and the consummation of many 
of the projects to which he had looked forward with happy 
anticipations. 
He has lived to see the claims of the deaf-mute, so ably 
urged by himself, and so advocated by his friend, 
the lamented Gallaudet, recognized in almost every State of 
the Union ; and the institution of New York bearing a high 
reputation as one of the most successful schools for deaf- 
mute instruction in the world. He has witnessed the adop- 
tion in this State, of a public system of education, elementa- 
ry and collegiate, alike thorough and successfuland as 
the crowning effort in the field of his severest, yet most con- 
genial, labor, a “ State Library” which, for completeness of 
organization and beauty of arrangement, stands unrivaled, 
and for which, it may be remarked, the State of New York 
is almost entirely indebted to his extended and complete 
knowledge of the history of Literature and Science, in which 
he had no equal in this country, if indeed anywhere. 
He has had the satisfaction of seeing the American Journal 
of Insanity, a periodical in the success of which he was so 
much interested, firmly established, and gradually extending 
its field of influence and usefulness. The State Lunatic 
Asylum, at Utica, an institution with which he has been offi- 
cially connected since its organization, and over whose in- 
terests he has so ably presided, has attained a rank among 
similar institutions alike creditable to its judicious manage- 
ment and the State ; and his untiring devotion to the study 
of Medical Jurisprudence, has enabled the profession in 
America to point with pride to an American author, at the 
head of the literature of one of the most important depart- 
ments of medical science. 
Dr. Beck’s constitution, naturally strong and vigorous, at 13 
length yielded to this long-continued and unremitting men- 
tal toil, and, during the spring of 1854, he himself became 
conscious of failing strength, and, at the earnest solicitation 
of his friends, was induced to restrict the circle of his labors. 
The summer of 1855 was spent at Lake George, in the hope 
that entire freedom from care, might recruit his impaired 
health. Of his last illness, little is to be said. 
of dyspnoea, with nausea and other distressing symptoms, 
from which he occasionally suffered, had been attributed to 
an organic affection of the heart. Physical examination, how- 
ever, failed to confirm this diagnosis, and from the later his- 
tory of his disease and the absence of important pathologi- 
cal lesion, as subsequently ascertained, it would seem that 
his death was the result simply of exhaustion. Thus, on the 
19th of November, 1855, in the sixty-fifth year of his age, 
the last member of this talented family ceased from his 
labors. 
Actuated by the highest motives, Dr. Beck has been an 
untiring laborer in every field of science and philanthropy, 
and most truly may it be said of him, that he was one of 
those, “in whose death mankind has lost a friend.” His 
life was one of great practical usefulness, and such, as every 
good and wise man, in advancing years, would desire to look 
back upon ; and he has left behind him a name, around which 
cluster more delightful and enduring recollections, than the 
crumbling honors, for which ambition toils, could ever have 
afforded. NON OMNIS MORI AR, 
The various institutions and organizations with which Dr. Beck had 
been prominently connected, on the occasion of his decease expressed 
their appreciation of his virtues and talents, and the great general loss 
sustained in his death, in the following proceedings and resolutions. 
University of the State of New York.—At a meeting of the 
Regents of the University of the State of New York, held Nov. 19th, 
1855, it was ordered that the following record be entered on their 
minutes : 
“ The Regents, in recording the death of their late Secretary, The- 
odric Romeyn Beck, unanimously express their high appreciation of 
the excellences of his character, distinguished by its modesty, sim- 
plicity, and integrity,—of the extent and variety of his acquirements, 
—of his eminent, long-continued, and efficient labors for the promotion 
of education and science,—of his faithfulness and diligence in the dis- 
charge of the laborious and varied duties of his office,—and of the 
great value of his services in the several departments belonging to it.” 
Resolved, That, in testimony of their respect for the deceased, 
the Board, together with its officers, will attend his funeral on Wed- 
nesday next, and that on that day the State Library be closed. 
Resolved, That the Regents tender to the family of the deceased 
the assurance of their sincere sympathy with them in their bereave- 
ment, and that a copy of this record, attested by the Chancellor, be 
transmitted to them. 
John H. Hickcox, Secretary pro tern. 
Managers of the New York State Lunatic Asylum.—At a 
meeting of the Managers of the State Lunatic Asylum, held at Utica, 
on the twenty-first day of November, 1855, it was— 
Resolved, That the intelligence of the death of Dr. T. Iiomeyn 
Beck, the President of this Board, has been received with deep regret 16 
and sorrow; that this Institution, from its commencement, has been 
greatly indebted to him for his wise counsels, his judicious and efficient 
action, his integrity and independence in pursuing the path of duty, 
his warm sympathy with its officers and the afflicted subjects of its 
care, and his prompt and hearty devotion to all its interests; and that, 
in his removal, it has suffered a loss which is painfully felt, and which 
can hardly be repaired. And that the individual members of this 
Board, remembering his great private as well as public worth, and 
having in mind the unbroken kindness and harmony which have 
prevailed in their association with him, feel his death to be a severe 
personal affliction. , 
Resolved, as a token of respect to his memory, that his funeral bo 
attended by the Superintendent of the Asylum, and so many of the 
Managers as shall be able to accompany him to Albany. 
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of 
Dr. Beck. 
Charles A. Mann, Chairman. 
E. A. Wetmore, Secretary. 
Trustees of the Albany Medical College. — At a special 
meeting of the Trustees of the Albany Medical College, held Nov. 20, 
1855, on the occasion of the death of Dr. Theodric Ilomeyn Beck,— 
Resolved, That we have learned with deep regret the death of Dr. 
Theodric Ilomeyn Beck, who for forty years past has been identified 
with almost every leading measure, in this state, for the promotion of 
education and of medical and general science and letters, and who for 
many years was one of the most laborious and distinguished professors 
in this institution. That, while his varied attainments and his able and 
learned contributions to medical science, and to almost every depart- 
ment of liberal knowledge, have reflected honor upon himself and upon 
his country, he has endeared himself to us by his general and estimable 
qualities as a man, and by the example of a pure life devoted with great 
energy and singleness of pui-pose to objects of lasting interest .and 
usefulness to the whole community. 
Resolved, That we tender to his family our earnest and respectful 
sympathy. 
Resolved, That as a mark of our respect we will attend his funeral 
in a body. 
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of 
the deceased, and be also published in the several daily papers. 
A. J. Parker, President pro tern. 
O. Meads, Secretary 'pro tem. 
Proceedings of the Faculty of the Albany Medical College, 
at a meeting held Nov. 20, 1855 : 
The Faculty havo heard with deep regret of the death of their 
beloved and honored associate Professor, T. Ilomeyn Bock, and wish 
to express their sonso of his excellent qualities and eminent services. 17 
By hk labors in science he was a benefactor of mankind, and an 
honor to his country; by his teaching and influence he elevated the 
character of our profession and extended its usefulness; by the purity 
and honesty of his life he has commanded the respect, and by his noble 
and generous temper, won the love of all who knew him. Therefore,— 
Resolved, That to mark our respect we will attend his funeral and 
wear the usual badge of mourning. 
Resolved, That we offer to his family our sincere sympathy in their 
affliction. 
Resolved, That these proceedings be entered on our minutes and 
communicated to the family of the deceased. 
Howard Townsend, Secretary. 
Alumni of the Albany Medical College.—At'a special meeting 
of the Albany Medical College, convened on the occasion of the death 
of the late Dr. T. Romeyn Beck, on Tuesday evening, Dr. W. H. 
Craig, President of the Society, arose and remarked as follows: 
Gentlemen of the Society, it becomes my duty to announce to you 
the decease of Prof. T. Romeyn Beck, and the object of meeting at 
this time is one of a painful nature. 
The alumni of the Albany Medical College owe, in part, their celeb- 
rity and prosperity to the teachings and influences of Prof. T. Romeyn 
Beck. We have indeed occasion to mourn his loss. Identified as ho 
was with a department of medical instruction requiring ripe scholarship, 
profound and accurate analysis, he was preeminently qualified to impart 
knowledge, and lead the pupil through the ■ labyrinth of scientific 
research. His name will ever be associated with the science of medi- 
cal jurisprudence. 
We have, in the present instance, opened up anew a train of sorrow- 
ful recollections. It is but a short time since a vacant chair in the 
Laboratory told of the loss to us of another instructor and guide. It 
is rare to meet, united by kindred, two nobler or more illustrious in 
social or professional life than the brothers Beck. In their decease, in 
the meridian of their usefulness, education has lost noble advocates, 
and we worthy exemplars. I trust that the recollection of the many 
virtues of the deceased may be to us, in the pursuit of a noble profession, 
a guiding and inspiring remembrance. Hoping that the Society will 
adopt some suitable mode of expressing their sorrow for this bereave- 
ment, I leave the subject with you. 
Dr. U. O. Bigelow, President of the Albapy County Medical Society, 
also paid a feeling tribute to the memory of the deceased. 18 
Prof. Quackenbush, of the Albany Medical College, made a few 
remarks, after which he presented the following resolutions, which 
were unanimously adopted: 
Resolved, That the alumni and members of the Albany Medical 
College have received with sincere sorrow and regret the announcement 
of the death of their former teacher, Theodric Romeyn Beck. 
Resolved, That while this announcement occasions deep sorrow, the 
memory of his great attainments, his extended usefulness, his world- 
wide reputation, his kind and generous qualities, and his noble virtues, 
affords consolation in the hour of bereavement. 
Resolved, That we respectfully tender to the family of the deceased 
our heartfelt sympathy in their affliction. 
Resolved, That we will attend, as a Society, the funeral of tho 
deceased. 
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family. 
¥m. H. Craig, President. 
Levi Moore, Secretary. 
Medical Society of the County of Albany.—At a meeting of 
this Society, held in the Common Council Chamber, on Tuesday, No- 
vember 20th, at 12, p. m., the meeting having been called to order by 
the President, Dr. Bigelow, in consequence of the death of Dr. T. 
Romeyn Beck, who has been a member of the Society since 1811—Dr. 
James McNaughton rose and spoke of his long and intimate relations 
with the deceased, and that upon him now, as the oldest member pre- 
sent, devolved the melancholy privilege of presenting for the consider- 
ation of the Society the following: 
Whereas, it hath pleased God to remove by death our associate and 
much-esteemed friend, Theodric Romeyn Beck; and 
Whereas, it is meet and proper, that when men, who have been 
eminently useful in their generation, are called from their labors, their 
decease should be followed by a public expression of a sense of the loss 
sustained by the community to which they belonged; and 
Whereas, our lamented brother was not only distinguished for his 
social and private virtues, but for great public services, which rendered 
him a benefactor to the human race; therefore, 
Resolved, That, as a mark of respect to the memory of our deceased 
brother, we will attend his funeral in a body, and wear the usual badge 
of mourning. 
Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with tho family of the 
deceased in their affliction, and offer our sincere condolence. 
Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be transmitted to the 
family of the deceased. 19 
The resolutions were unanimously adopted, and the Society adjourn- 
ed, to meet at 3k o’clock, p. m., Wednesday, at the Common Council 
Chamber, preparatory to attending the funeral. 
Sylvester D. Willard, Secretary. 
Albany Institute.—At a meeting held at the Albany Academy, 
Monday Evening, Nov, 19th, 1855, the following was unanimously 
adopted: 
The members of the Albany Institute, assembled on the occasion of 
the death of Theodric Romeyn Beck, their President, desirous of 
paying to his memory those tokens of respect which are prompted by 
their sincere affection for him while living, and their sorrow at his 
death, and which are due to his large attainments in letters and science; 
to his labors for many years in the advancement and diffusion of sound 
learning; to his practical wisdom in the discharge of the many duties 
which have been imposed upon him; to his kindly temper, to his 
benevolent heart, to his unstained integrity in all the relations of a long 
life, do resolve,— 
1. That they tender to the family of the deceased their respectful 
sympathy in the affliction that has fallen upon them. 
2. That they will, in a body, attend the funeral of the deceased. 
3. That the record of these proceedings be entered upon the minutes 
of the Institute, and that a copy thereof be delivered to the family. 
Members will assemble at the Institute Rooms at 3>k p. m. 
John E. Gavit, Recording Secretary. 
Trustees of the Albany Academy.—At a meeting of the 
Trustees of the Albany Academy, held Nov. 20, 1855 :— 
This Board having learned with deep sorrow the decease of their 
honored friend and associate, Theodric Romeyn Beck, M. D., LL. D., 
who for more than thirty years was the Principal of the Academy, and 
for the last seven years has been the President of this Board, deem it 
proper to record their sense of the eminent services rendered by the 
deceased to this Institution, and to the cause of science and education. 
And especially would they bear witness to the simplicity, frankness, 
and elevation of his character,—to the respect and affection with which 
he was ever regarded by his pupils,—to his large and varied literary and 
scientific acquirements, and to the disinterested zeal and faithfulness 
with which he labored through the whole course of his life to advance 
the interests of sound learning. 20 
Resolved, That as a manifestation of our esteem and respect for the 
deceased, we will attend his funeral in a body, and wear the usual 
badge of mourning; and that the Faculty, with the former and present 
students of the Academy, be requested to join us. 
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of 
the deceased, and be also published in the several city papers. 
R. Y. De AYitt, President pro tern. 
W. A. Miller, Secretary. 
Alpha Sigma.—At a special meeting of the Alpha Sigma, held 
Nov. 20th, 1855, the President having announced the death of Dr. T. 
Romeyn Beck, on motion the following were appointed a committee to 
draft resolutions expressive of the feelings of the Society: John E. 
McElroy, \V. H. Haskell, E. B. Miller, E. J. Miller, and J. C. Mc- 
Clure ; who reported the following, which were unanimously adopted: 
Whereas, The Alpha Sigma, composed of the former students of the 
Albany Academy, have heard with profound sorrow of the death of 
their much-beloved Principal, Dr. Theodric Romeyn Beck; and 
Whereas, The members of this Society individually can testify to his 
care and devoted exertions as Principal of that Institution, and of his 
good-will and friendship to each and every one in later years; there- 
fore, in testimony of our grief for his loss, be it hereby 
Resolved, That in the death of Dr. Beck, we recognize the inscrut- 
able providence of an all-wise Jehovah, in the removing from our midst 
a bright and shining light, distinguished alike for the brilliancy of his 
genius, and the simplicity and honesty of a refined and generous heart. 
Resolved, That this Society unite with the other students of the 
Academy in testifying our veneration for the memory of Dr. Beck, and 
that we hold his life to be an exemplary criterion for our fellow young 
men here and elsewhere. 
Resolved, That this Society attend the funeral of Dr. Beck in a body, 
and that a copy of these proceedings be transmitted to the family of the 
deceased, and be published in the city papers. 
A. McClure, Jr., President. 
R. V. De AVitt, Jr., Secretary pro tern. 
» 
Meeting of the Old Pupils of the Albany Academy.—Pur- 
suant to the published notice, a very large attendance of the pupils of 
the late Dr. Beck was held yesterday at the Academy. 
Mr. Miller, Principal of the Academy, called the meeting to order 
and nominated J. Y. L. Pruyn, Esq., as Chairman, and the nomination, 
being confirmed, Mr. Pruyn, on taking the chair, made a few appro- 
priate remarks in reference to Dr. Beck, and concluded with the sug- 21 
gestion that an appropriate testimonial should be erected in memory of 
the deceased. 
On motion, Lewis Benedict, Jr., was nominated as Secretary. 
Mr. Meads moved that the Chair appoint a committee of nine to 
draw up resolutions expressive of the feelings of the meeting. He 
prefaced his motion with an eloquent tribute to the character of the 
deceased, briefly reviewing his life as that of one whose, example and 
whose works rendered his demise a public loss. He, too, cordially 
seconded the suggestion of the Chairman that a permanent and endur- 
ing memorial should be erected. 
The Chair appointed the following Committee on resolutions; Orlando 
Meads, Andrew Brown, Henry L. King, Carlton Edwards, Robert H. 
Pruyn, Gilbert H. Wilson, Rev. Sylvanus Reed, George W. Carpenter, 
George Ten Broeck. 
The following resolutions were thereupon submitted and unanimously 
adopted: 
Whereas, The graduates and old pupils of Albany Academy are 
desirous of expressing in some public manner their affection and 
esteem for their former Teacher, Dr. T. Romeyn Beck ; therefore bo 
it— 
Resolved, That in his death they mourn the loss of an instructor who 
devoted the best years of a long and useful life to the young, and whose 
unremitting and laborious efforts in their behalf should enshrine his 
memory in the hearts of all the friends of the noble cause of education. 
Resolved, That the Albany Academy owes much of its reputation 
and success to the protracted and systematic regulation of Dr. Beck, 
who, for a period of over thirty years, was its head and principal, and 
whose wholesome advice and judicious discipline gave it an honored 
and respected position among similar institutions throughout the land. 
Resolved, That his old pupils desire to pay, in the same simple and 
unpretending spirit which was one of the noted traits in the remarka- 
ble character of their former Teacher, a tribute to the excellence of 
his life, his unselfish and self-sacrificing disposition, to the soundness of 
his judgment, the sagacity of his intellect, and to the generous and 
genial graces which made Dr. Beck a universal favorite among his 
pupils. 
Resolved, That we mourn in his loss a devoted friend to the young 
and middle-aged men of Albany, and find in his death another link 
broken in the chain which unites the past with the present, and a fresh 
severing of old ties and cherished associations connected with the ear- 
lier and happier moments of life. 
Resolved, That we attend his funeral obsequies in a body, and 
that the family and more immediate friends of the deceased have our 
sympathy and condolence in an event which has bereaved them and 
inflicted a loss upon our own city and the world at large. 22 
Resolved, That the chair appoint u committee of ten who shall be 
charged with the duty of procuring some suitable memorial of the 
deceased, to be placed in the Academy or its grounds. 
The appointment of the Committee under the last resolution was left 
with the chair to report, and publish hereafter. 
The meeting then adjourned. 
Executive Committee of the State Normal School.—At a 
meeting of the Executive Committee of the State Normal School, held 
at the office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, on Tuesday 
afternoon, Nov. 20th, 1855, the following preamble and resolutions were 
offered by the Superintendent, and ordered to be entered upon the 
minutes: 
The Executive Committee of the New York Normal School, in re- 
cording the decease of their Secretary, T. Romeyn Beck, M. D., take 
occasion to declare their deep and earnest consciousness, that the spirit 
of a good and useful man has withdrawn from the earth; that from 
society has been taken one of its brightest ornaments ; that this depart- 
ment of science has lost an efficient laborer and zealous teacher, and 
that the School of which this Committee have charge has been de- 
prived of an able and constant friend. In consideration, and as a be- 
fitting acknowledgment of this afflictive dispensation, it is therefore 
hereby— 
Resolved, That, in testimony of veneration and respect for the mem- 
ory of the deceased, and with a desire to emulate his virtues, this com- 
mittee will attend his funeral on Wednesday next, and order that on 
that day the State Normal School shall be closed, and its exercises 
suspended. 
Resolved, That we tender to his bereaved family the assurance of 
our sympathy with them in the loss which they have sustained, in the 
dissolution of relations, the duties of which were performed by the 
deceased with the most constant rectitude, affection, and fidelity; and 
that a copy of this record, certified by the Superintendent of Public 
Instruction, be transmitted to them as an evidence thereof. 
Chas. L. Austin, Secretary pro tern. 
At a special meeting of Master’s Lodge No. 5, of Free and Accept- 
ed Masons, held at Masonic Hall, on the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 
20th, the Worshipful Master, having announced the decease of 
Brother Theodric Romeyn Beck, on motion, a committee of three were 
appointed to draft resolutions suitable to the occasion, who reported the 
following: . Resolved, That Master’s Lodge has received with great regret the 
intelligence of the decease of one of its earliest and most eminent 
members. 
Resolved, That while the members most sincerely sympathize with 
the family and friends, in their sad bereavement, they are consoled by 
the reflection, that the life of their cherished brother has been spent in 
the exercise of all that is great and noble, and that his whole career has 
been distinguished by an earnest endeavor to render himself useful to 
his fellow-men. 
Resolved, That, as a tribute of respect to his memory, this Lodge 
will attend his funeral in a body, and wear the usual badge of mourning. 
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be communicated to the 
family of the deceased, and also published. 
Cornelius Glen, Secretary. 
John Jacob Wendell, 
Stephen Clark, 
Chas. D. Rathbone, 
> Committee. 
FUNERAL OF DR. BECK. 
The funeral of Dr. Beck was very largely attended on Wednesday 
afternoon, Nov. 21st, from the house of his son-in-law, Hon. William 
Parmelee. Rev. Dr. Campbell conducted the services, and paid an 
eloquent and appropriate tribute to the distinguished character and 
virtues of the deceased. 
The funeral cortege moved from the house at half-past four, in the 
following order: 
Clergy of the City. 
Bearers. 
Mourners. 
Regents of the University. 
Officers of the State Lunatic Asylum. 
Officers and Members of the Medical Society. 
Free and Accepted Masons. 
Trustees and Faculty of the Albany Medical College. 
Trustees and Faculty of the Albany Academy. 
Former Students and Graduates of the Albany Academy. 
Present Pupils of the Albany Academy. 
Citizens. 
Officers of the Police Department.