Harvard History

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

A Forgotten Harvard Anthem

Published the year the Titanic sank, “Harvard’s Best” is a quizzical ode to the University.

Headlines from Harvard history, July-August 1914-1994

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Morning Exercises: Harvard’s 363rd Commencement

The student speeches, the awarding of degrees, the honorands—and an Aretha Franklin song

Harvard Commencement week 2012: events for Wednesday, May 28

ROTC commissioning and numerous Class Day celebrations, including speeches by Sandberg, Power, Van Valkenburgh, and Kaling.

Harvard Commencement week 2014: events for Tuesday, May 27

Phi Beta Kappa exercises; Baccalaureate address

Author's query re expository writing at Harvard

For the period between 1979 and 1994

Headlines from Harvard history, May-June 1919-1999

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

What mortarboards hide, and news of centenarian Clarence M. Agress

On the uses of mortarboards, and a centenarian’s update

At Harvard, Howard Aiken's computing machine hums briefly back to life

At Harvard, Howard Aiken's computing machine hums briefly back to life.

At Harvard, anatomy on view, and the return of Pooh

Anatomy on view, and the return of Pooh

Headlines from Harvard history, March-April 1924-1989

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine