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This Week in Princeton History for September 7-13


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, Firestone Library opens, the campus reels from domestic terrorism, and more.

September 7, 1948—With much of the interior construction not yet complete, Firestone Library opens to students and faculty for the first time.

Firestone_Library_1946_AC111_Box_AD04_Image_8223
Interior of Firestone Library, ca. 1948. Historical Photograph Collection, Grounds and Buildings Series (AC111), Box AD04, Image No. 8223.

September 8, 1981—Residents of Holder Hall take advantage of a flash flood, going down into the basement in swimsuits for a late-night dip.

Clip_Prince_9_Sept_1981
Photo from Daily Princetonian.

September 11, 2001—Students gather in various locations throughout the day for mutual support and prayer in the wake of terrorist attacks on the United States. At the end of the day, hundreds gather for a candlelight vigil and spontaneously begin singing “We Shall Overcome.”

Memorial_List_AC109_Box_313_Folder_3
List of Princeton University alumni who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Historical Subject Files Collection (AC109), Box 313, Folder 3.

September 12, 1927—The College of New Jersey (Princeton) Class of 1881 holds a birthday party for itself at the Nassau Club to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their arrival on campus. It appears 1881 marches to the beat of its own drum; they are the first (and perhaps the last) class to throw such a party.

1881_Birthday_Poem_AC130_Box_20_Page_1
First page of the College of New Jersey (Princeton) Class of 1881 birthday poem. Princeton University Class Records (AC130), Box 20.

For last week’s installment in this series, click here.

Fact check: We always strive for accuracy, but if you believe you see an error, please contact us.


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