1917
The Crimson endorses wartime prohibition; Harvard Alumni Association officials advise against serving liquor at reunions.
1922
Despite the belief of many alumni that “one does not advertise one’s mother,” the Associated Harvard Clubs Policy in Publicity committee advises repeal of the rule forbidding photographers in the Yard on Commencement day and encourages use of “the moving picture as a medium for pictorial record and current information” about Harvard.
1927
As the Weeks Bridge is dedicated and the Fogg Museum opens, debate rages over the planned construction of the $1-million Memorial Church. Alumni write to complain that they would rather have a memorial swimming pool.
1942
Undergraduate dinner conversation includes “the sugar rationing system, the bicycle shortage, and the cuffless-trousers-for-victory campaign.”
1947
The faculty discusses extending wartime rules that let some Radcliffe students take classes at Harvard. The New York Times calls it “one more step in the emancipation of the female, who was long considered above or beneath the need for higher education.”
1952
More than a thousand people gather in Harvard Square to welcome “Pogo” cartoonist Walt Kelly to Harvard for a lecture and “Pogo for president” rally. When Kelly is delayed, some in the crowd begin blocking traffic. Cambridge police move in, and by evening’s end, 28 undergraduates have been arrested.
1957
The Faculty of Arts and Sciences endorses the creation of a visual arts center and of a theater, because of a “lively resurgence of undergraduate interest in the dramatic arts since World War II.” John L. Loeb ’24 contributes $1 million toward the theater a week later.
1967
Radcliffe president Mary Bunting prohibits cigar smoking in Hilles Library.
1977
Under a new agreement, Harvard and Radcliffe will maintain a coordinate relationship: Radcliffe will retain its institutional independence but delegate responsibility for undergraduate affairs and instruction to Harvard.
1982
Kermit the Frog addresses graduating seniors in Sanders Theatre, telling them, “As you set sail on the great vacation of life, think of Harvard as your travel agent.”