Biography:

William Wagner (1796–1885) was a gentleman scientist, philanthropist, and Philadelphia merchant who is most well known for founding the Wagner Free Institute of Science. From a young age, he aspired to be a scientist. However, in 1814, he went to work for Stephen Girardas a counting house clerk. But his love for the natural sciences persisted, and in 1815, he became a member of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. During this time, was greatly influenced by Stephen Girard's philanthropic efforts, particularly his posthumous founding of Girard College. Though Wagner's wealth was merely a small fraction of Girard's, he aimed to benefit the Philadelphia community as well. After his marriage to his second wife, Louisa Binney, Wagner was inspired to found the Wagner Free Institute of Science where he offered a view of his varied specimens collection as well as free lectures for all people on scientific topics. During he and Louisa's two month honeymoon across Europe, they visited various natural history museums including the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin. Wagner found that he often had to provide a reference to view many of the museums in Europe. Though he had no trouble providing such a reference, Wagner considered this concept unfair and sought to create a natural sciences museum that would be for all people regardless of gender or financial means. The building was erect in 1865, and Wagner remained active with the Institute until his death in 1885 at the age of 89. The board of directors then passed on the directorship to noted Philadelphia scientist and Academy member Joseph Leidy.