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This Week in Princeton History for June 29-July 5


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, head cheerleader Jimmy Stewart ’32 dies, students find themselves paying for a good deed, and more.

June 29, 1914—Construction begins on Palmer Stadium.

Palmer_Stadium_August_3_1914_AC111_MP72_No.2869
Palmer Stadium under construction, August 3, 1914. Historical Photograph Collection, Grounds and Buildings Series (AC111), Box MP72, No. 2869.

July 2, 1997—A former Princeton University head cheerleader better known for many other things, Jimmy Stewart ’32, dies at the age of 89.

Jimmy_Stewart_Cheerleader_1933_Bric
Jimmy Stewart (third from right) with the rest of Princeton University’s 1931-1932 cheerleading squad. Photo from 1933 Bric-a-Brac.

July 3, 1772—Students rush to the aid of a local resident whose barn is on fire. When they return back to Nassau Hall, as the Pennsylvania Chronicle will report later, they will find that someone has “ransacked their Rooms, and carried off a Quantity of Plunder.”

July 4, 1912—William Libbey, Princeton Class of 1877 and professor of natural geography, wins a silver medal at the Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden for the men’s 100-meter team running deer, single shots.

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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