I once attempted to read The Atlantic's contemporary review of "On the Origin of Species" by Asa Gray, and I didn't stand a chance. I agree with you that the modern version is known for lengthy articles, but it's got nothing on its older incarnation.
from the July 1860 issue. Wow, started reading it and I was hooked. Thank you for pointing out this gem.
Looking at it again, it's not that long, but yes, it's a cool look into highbrow journalism from a time long gone by, and nice of The Atlantic to expose a bit of their archives online.