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

This class necktie belonged to Renny Little's father, Bertram K. Little ’23. His class colors were orange and black.

Harvard class colors and trademark clothing

A class tradition refurbished, and “Harvard Yard” threads

<em>"Your wooden arm you hold outstretched to shake with passers-by"</em>

Grazing a cow in Harvard Yard

Hollis professor of divinity Harvey Cox will lead a cow through Harvard Yard.

Headlines from Harvard history

Headlines from Harvard history

Yesterday's News

Headlines from Harvard history

No. Not Yet. Never.

Varieties of rejection experience

George Martin Lane

Song for Hard Times

The classic folksong “One Meat Ball” got its start at Harvard.

Yesterday's News

Happenings at Harvard in Mays and Junes past

The Bells Return to Russia

A New Yorker article explores the Lowell House bells' journey back to Russia—and how they came to be at Harvard in the first place.

Yesterday's News

Happenings at Harvard in March and April of years past

Drat Those Vandals!

A vandalized pump, a fumbled swearing-in, and lessons about life from Professor John H. Finley