Harvard History & Traditions

Stories that explore the institution’s rich history, from archival moments to evolving traditions.

Jack Reardon waves

A Look at Harvard’s Distinctive Doctoral Regalia

On regalia, a Jack-of-all-trades retirement, and a Bok’s office bon mot.

by Primus VI

James M. Freeman wrote in his diary about having his picture taken in 1859

Daguerreotypes and Harvard class albums on display at Pusey Library

Harvard class albums from the early days of photography, on exhibit at Pusey Library

by John S. Rosenberg

Altrocchi at his home in Reno. The goalpost has to go.

Goalpost antics, Harvard vinegar, and the flip-flop menace

Goalpost antics, Harvard vinegar, and the flip-flop menace

Headlines from Harvard history, May-June 1925-1995

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Nuttall during his time at Harvard (the circa 1828 portrait is attributed to J. Whitfield)

Brief life of naturalist Thomas Nuttall, by John Nelson

Brief life of a pioneering naturalist: 1786-1859

by John Nelson

Calvert W. Watkins

The Pump Overflows

Astonishing linguist Calvert Watkins

More than 20 pieces of type dug up in Harvard Yard have been dated to the seventeenth century.

Peabody museum curators discuss archaeology of Harvard Yard project

Archaeologists examine printing type found deep in Harvard Yard.

by Stephanie Garlock

Marie Heaney, the poet's widow, in the newly dedicated Heaney suite.

Adams House dedicates suite to Seamus Heaney

Adams House members, past and present, dedicate a suite to the Irish poet who lived among them.

by Sophia Nguyen

Harvard’s collection of early American paintings

Harvard’s collection of early American paintings are mostly portraits, all men.

by Stephanie Garlock

Headlines from Harvard history, March-April 1920-2000

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Lafayette became a friend of American artist and inventor Samuel F.B. Morse, who depicted him with Revolutionary icons Washington and Franklin in this 1826 portrait.

Brief life of Lafayette, by Laura Auricchio

Brief life of an American champion: 1757-1834

by Laura Auricchio