Scope and Contents
This series contains various manifestations of the Charter of 1650, as well as a ceremonial box, roll, and portfolio case used to display the Charter. The Charter was passed on May 30, 1650 and signed by Governor Thomas Dudley on May 31, 1650. The Charter established the Harvard Corporation and transferred to them, in “perpetual succession,” the duties of managing the College. Harvard University currently operates under the Charter of 1650.
Among the handwritten copies of the Charter of 1650, at least two were created during the controversy in the 1720s over the right of tutors to vacant fellowships in the Harvard Corporation.
Dates
- Creation: 1650-1814
Physical Description
.08 cubic feet (8 folders)
Researcher Access
The charters and legislative acts relating to the governance of Harvard are open for research. Access to original charters may be restricted; facsimiles may be provided for researcher use.
Extent
2.38 cubic feet (1 framed item, 3 flat boxes, 5 folders)Arrangement
The records are arranged in three subseries:
- A. Original, 1650
- B. Handwritten copies, 1650-ca. 1720s
- C. Frames and boxes, ca. 1830s-ca. 1936
Creator
- From the Collection: Harvard University (Organization)
Repository Details
Part of the Harvard University Archives Repository
Holding nearly four centuries of materials, the Harvard University Archives is the principal repository for the institutional records of Harvard University and the personal archives of Harvard faculty, as well as collections related to students, alumni, Harvard-affiliates and other associated topics. The collections document the intellectual, cultural, administrative and social life of Harvard and the influence of the University as it emerged across the globe.
Pusey Library
Harvard Yard
Cambridge MA 02138 USA
(617) 495-2461
archives_reference@harvard.edu