[4] William Wagner was influenced by Stephen Girard's philanthropic efforts, particularly his posthumous founding of Girard College, and dedicated the second half of his life to creating an institution that opened science education to the public.

He also hired a faculty and offered free courses on a wide range of science subjects, including botany, chemistry, mineralogy, architecture and anatomy.

Though he was able to provide references, he considered the practice unfair and became determined to create a science education institution that would be open to everyone regardless of gender, background or financial means.

[5] Leadership of the institution was taken over by a Board of Trustees, who elected the noted Philadelphia scientist and Academy member Joseph Leidy.

[2][5][6] William and Louisa Binney Wagner are interred at the West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania.