Harvard History & Traditions

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

An Original Magna Carta, Hidden in Plain Sight

A rare original surfaces at Harvard at an “almost providential” moment. 

by Nina Pasquini

Life Lessons

Expansive CVs, and extracurricular insights

by Primus VI

Admissions, through the Ages

College admissions stalwart Dwight Miller retires.

by John S. Rosenberg

New Fellows

The Ledecky Fellows provide an undergraduate perspective on life at Harvard.

Throw Your Fastball

A life lesson from Willie Banks

by Chad M. Oldfather

Summer in the City

Turkeys, tourists, traditions, tranquility

by Primus VI

It’s a Small World

Ebenezer Storer’s pocket globe

by Jacob Sweet

It’s Baby Turkey Season in Cambridge

A hen turkey and her seven poults have settled near the eastern end of Harvard Yard. 

by Marina N. Bolotnikova

Yesterday’s News

Headlines from Harvard’s history

The “Great Asymmetry”

Country dance, saving homework from a burning car, and Stephen Jay Gould on 9/11

by Primus VI