Harvard History

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

A man sitting at a wooden table in a formal setting with portraits on the wall.

Cambridge Once Fought Harvard’s DNA Research. Now There’s a Play About It.

A theatrical reenactment explores a 1976 clash between science and democracy.

by Laurel M. Shugart

Headlines from Harvard history

Headlines from Harvard history

The University plans for an anniversary.

The University plans for an anniversary.

Photograph by Jim Harrison

Meet the men who tend Harvard Yard

Meet the men who tend the Yard.

The Law School’s “Northwest Corner”

Updates on Fogg Museum renovation and Law School's Northwest Corner building

In a straitened era, landmark construction projects advance academic goals.

Jacqueline A. O’Neill

Harvard University marshal Jackie O'Neill on Commencement

The Commencement emcee on keeping the ceremonies festive while making the trains run on time

by Nell Porter-Brown

Monty: Check him out.

Granny Talk

Edward Everett aids Mount Vernon; Monty aids law students; Drew Faust eyes the pay of William James.

Headlines from Harvard history

Headlines from Harvard history

Thomas Wolfe and Gertrude Stein

Yale expert Fred Shapiro's pick of choice Harvard quotations

An expert's pick of choice Harvard words

by Fred Shapiro

Neckties distinguished athletes in 14 major sports, with a generic tie for all minor sports, says Renny Little, curator (pro bono) of the Lee Family Hall of Athletic History. Here (from left) are those for football, soccer, cross country, track and field, ice hockey, swimming, basketball, wrestling, lacrosse, baseball, lightweight crew, golf, and minor sports. Missing are those for heavyweight crew and squash.

The Adams House spirit house, and Harvard sports teams' ties

A spirit house at Adams House, and how athletes tied one on

Readers submit their favorite Harvard quotations

Readers: submit your favorite quotations about Harvard and by Harvard figures.