Crimson Cranescape

This panorama, photographed from the Western Avenue Bridge over the Charles River, gives some sense of Harvard’s current, very extensive...

This panorama, photographed from the Western Avenue Bridge over the Charles River, gives some sense of Harvard’s current, very extensive construction program. From right (east) to left, the cranes in Cambridge work at Western Avenue and Memorial Drive, near the Peabody Terrace towers (new graduate-student housing); across Cowperthwaite Street from Mather and Dunster Houses (more apartments); and in the distance, at the Laboratory for Interface Science and Engineering. Not visible are another laboratory facility, the Northwest Building, and the reconstruction of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals performing-arts space. The building boom is quantified on the next page.

Most popular

Meet Harvard’s 2026 Student Commencement Speakers

Two undergraduates and a Ph.D. candidate will address the graduating class on May 28.

Ronny Chieng Tells Harvard to ‘Destroy AI’ as Graduates Cheer

The comedian and The Daily Show host gave the keynote address for Class Day 2026.

Harvard Faculty Approve a Cap on A Grades

Reforms to reduce grade inflation will take effect in the fall of 2027.

Explore More From Current Issue

A man holding a revolver and lantern, wearing a hat and coat, appears to be walking cautiously.

Scoundrels, Then and Now

On con men, Mark Twain, and the powers of the Harvard name

Historical battle scene with soldiers in red and blue uniforms, flags waving, chaotic action.

The Harvard-Trained Doctor Who Urged a Revolution

Before his heroic death, General Joseph Warren was dubbed “the greatest incendiary in all of America.”

Woman in historical dress standing in front of green foliage, smiling brightly.

This Harvard Graduate Brings Women of the Revolution to Life

Historical reenactor Lauren Shear reveals tricks of the trade for playing Tory loyalists, Revolutionary poets, and more.