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

Illustration of Sharon Beckman ’80 swimming the English Channel

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Photograph of Milman Parry in Paris, circa 1925-1928

Milman Parry

Brief life of a Homeric scholar with a big idea: 1902-1935

by Robert Kanigel

Photograph of William Randall playing guitar in his Lowell House room, c. 1970-1971

Learners, Grizzled and Downy

An affecting reunion, and Houghton Library accessible to all

by Primus VI

Permafrost Fare

Soured Seal Liver, Anyone?

by Jacob Sweet

A red brick sunken pit in a plaza.

The End of the Harvard Square Pit

Reconstruction of a local landmark begins soon.

by Jacob Sweet

Historic photo of Harvard Commencement 1915

Moveable Feast

Commencement venues through the ages

by Primus IV

Illustration of football players hanging their laundry out to dry

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Photograph of Richard Evans Schultes at Chiribiquete conservation area

Richard Evans Schultes

Brief life of a pioneering ethnobotanist and conservationist: 1915-2001

by Mark J. Plotkin

Illustration of 2022 Commencement with movie camera for first time

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Portrait of Lorna Myrtle Hodgkinson, ca. 1922

Lorna Myrtle Hodgkinson

Brief life of a dauntless educator: 1887-1951

by David Haig