Harvard Hall (1766)
The first building to be called Harvard Hall was completed in Cambridge in 1642 and is more commonly known as Harvard College or the Old College. This structure eventually collapsed in the 1670s. The next Harvard Hall was built in Harvard Yard between 1672 and 1682. This building was destroyed in a fire in 1764. A new Harvard Hall, often called the second Harvard Hall, designed by Sir Francis Bernard, was built in 1766 at the same location as its predecessor. This building first divided the Yard into two quadrangles. Substantial additions have been made over the years: the original building was augmented with a central pavilion in 1842 and two wings on either side of the pavilion in 1870.
Hey! Thanks taking the time to publish the important information. I used it on my research paper.
Who paid for the original buildings at harvard
In my recent search for ancestors who attended Harvard, I found that one of my ancestors was appointed by the Massachusetts General Court to acquire funding to build Harvard Hall. The story I read told how he went about asking for donations and was promised a cow here and a pig there, until the funding goal was reached.
The most important work of his life was in connection with Harvard College. He was selected, with Deacon John Cooper as an associate, to replace the old college building with a new one, and to receive and disburse the funds for that purpose. This was in 1672 and the final accounting was not made until 1684. The General Court (Legislature) termed these two associates “stewards, trustees and overseers” at various times. William Manning was the principal as he received more than two-thirds of the sum allowed to them for their services. It was a momentous trust.
For more information, http://josfamilyhistory.com/htm/hopkins/robinson/robinson-manning-gen1.htm
William Manning was my 10th great grandfather. Little idid I know that I was walking paths that he took! About five years ago, I attended a Harvard Grad School of Ed and Harvard Grad Bus School conference for Women in Efucational Leadership. I walked the side streets and even participated in a ceremony and meal in Harvard Hall. I was mesmerized by the history and many sacred spots on campus. The cemetery I visited unknowingly turned out to be the resting place of my ancestors. So very proud of him. Robin Peterman
I am a descendant of Deacon John Cooper. It is a pleasure to know about our connection to the history of the early colonial times.
I’m always interested in learning more of my family’s involvement that may be noteworthy, as am I interested in finding copies of documents of their activities still existing.
Hi, William Manning is my ancestral grandfather. Shocked and delighted to see that I am a descendant of such an amazing man through my maternal line!! Would love to know more about William and John – does Harvard College have any commemorations to these two men? Best wishes all.