Harvard History

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

A man with a long beard and formal attire stands next to a chalkboard with an equation.

They Might Be (Harvard) Giants

Two tales of University greats—and an encounter with a Tiger

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

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

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

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

Historic portrait of Ralph Waldo Emerson

On Commencements

Emerson’s oratory backstory, somber reunion notes, and happier days

by Primus VI

Blanche Calloway spreading her arms during a performance

Blanche Calloway, Cab’s Enterprising Older Sister

The success and struggles of a pioneering musician

by Jacob Sweet