Harvard History

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

A graphic depiction of a stone wall, reimagining the stone wall set in Harvard Square near Winthrop Street

One of Harvard’s Oldest Structures Is Hiding Behind a Beer Garden

A crumbling wall in Harvard Square holds centuries of the city’s story, if you know how to read it.

by Olivia Farrar

Preparations were under way Wednesday for Friday's celebration in Harvard Yard. Here, the view from Widener toward Memorial Church: the stand for Joanne Chang’s Harvard birthday cake, the platform where Yo-Yo Ma will perform, and the dance stage and band tent immediately in front of the church.

Harvard 375th anniversary preparations

Preparations in full swing for Harvard's community celebration Friday night

March 27, 1999—The Harvard women's ice-hockey team win the national championship.

Faster, Higher, Stronger—25 years of athletic change

Athletic accomplishments, highlighted

Harvard students and leaders commemorate September 11

The University community bears witness with music, words, and fellowship.

by Spencer Lee Lenfield

Harvard Archives launches website on Harvard in the 17th and 18th centuries

A new Archives website offers today's undergraduates a useful perspective on Harvard homework, and life, in the old days.

by Christopher Reed

The kiosk next to Widener Library

Professors and extracurriculars promote their wares as classes begin at Harvard

Harvard Yard kiosks blossom with flyers for courses and extracurriculars as classes begin.

Seamus Heaney introduces an anniversary album

Seamus Heaney introduces an anniversary album.

A collection of "Undergraduate" columns from the last 25 years

Undergraduate columns from the last quarter century capture changes as well as moments in time.

Reunion reflections by David Souter, and a tribute to Carroll Wood

Reunion reflections from David Souter, and a tribute to Carroll Wood

Headlines from Harvard's history

Headlines from Harvard's history

What’s Latin for “375th anniversary”?

What’s in a (Latin) name?