Campus & Community

This Month in Harvard history

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Sept. 19, 1639 — Accused of neglecting and physically mistreating students, Nathaniel Eaton is fined and discharged as Master of the College by the Great and General Court of Massachusetts Bay Colony. Harvard closes its doors and dismisses students after little more than a year’s operation.

September 1653 — Backed by English-based President and Society for Propagation of the Gospel in New England, the Commissioners of the United Colonies authorize the College to construct a building for the instruction of “six hopfull Indians youthes.” This “Indian College” is completed ca. 1656, probably on land abutting the inner side of present-day Matthews Hall.

Sept. 24, 1653 — The Great and General Court of Massachusetts Bay Colony appoints a committee to “examine the state of the colledge,” paying special attention to providing more abundant food for students.

September 1884 — College Librarian Justin Winsor presides over the Saratoga Convention, which leads to the formation of the American Historical Association.

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