This year in Harvard history

December 1890 – The Faculty of Arts and Sciences establishes the Division of American Archaeology and Ethnology.

Dec. 17, 1920 – In Lawrence Hall (lost to fire in 1970 on a site now occupied by the Science Center), the Graduate School of Education begins a six-part series of lectures, demonstrations, and practical exercises for those who teach and otherwise work with the blind and semi-sighted.

Dec. 6, 1921 – A reception at the Fogg Museum honors visiting French composer Vincent d’Indy. The Harvard Glee Club sings under the direction of Music Associate Professor Archibald T. Davison, the University Organist and Choirmaster.

Dec. 7, 1942 – At Soldiers Field, hundreds of Harvard Army Quartermaster cadets and Navy Supply School officers sit in on a singular cooking demonstration, as Army cooks from Fort Devens, Mass., use a portable outdoor stove to produce “the first pie ever baked in the Stadium.” Apple pie, of course. (Quoted from “Harvard Alumni Bulletin,” Jan. 16, 1943)

Ca. December 1945 – Singling out food preparation and variety for special attention, a petition from 120 Lowell House students revives ancient grumblings over Harvard grub. The group meets with dining halls manager Roy L. Westcott (who promises improvements) and decides to continue as a Food Committee issuing weekly reports to him on food quality.

– From the Harvard Historical Calendar, a database compiled by Marvin Hightower