Pembroke College

Established in 1624, Pembroke College has quite a tale to tell. Right here in Pembroke Square, it stands as a testament to King James I’s vision. He established the college, utilizing funds from merchant Thomas Tesdale. It was named for William Herbert, the 3rd Earl of Pembroke. Pembroke College wasn’t always the diverse hub it is today. For centuries, it was a men’s only institution, until finally admitting its first mixed-sex cohort in 1979. Today, Pembroke College offers a wide range of academic disciplines, reflecting the breadth of Oxford University’s offerings. The college’s crest is a visual story in itself. Granted in 1625, it showcases three silver lions on a blue and red background. Above them, an English rose and a Scottish thistle symbolize King James I’s dual role as monarch of both nations. Look around. The buildings themselves whisper stories of centuries past. Old Quad, built in the 17th century from Cotswold limestone, is nestled against the old city wall. Chapel Quad arose later, with the chapel built in 1732, followed by the hall in 1848. Did you know the chapel’s interior was redesigned by alumnus Charles Kempe? More recent additions, like North Quad and Rokos Quad, provide modern spaces while respecting the college’s historic character. And across from the main college buildings, near the River Isis, the Geoffrey Arthur Building provides accommodation for graduates and undergraduates, named after a former Master of the College. Pembroke College boasts a vibrant student life, with a particularly well-funded Junior Common Room. A savvy art purchase in the mid-20th century, a Francis Bacon painting bought for a mere £150 and later sold for £400,000, secured the JCR’s financial strength. The college has a history of academic scandal. In 2002, two fellows resigned amidst allegations of offering a place to a fictitious student in exchange for a library donation. Pembroke is also home to OxNet, an access initiative that aims to widen access to Oxford for students from diverse backgrounds. Pembroke College also holds a unique sporting honor. In 2018, both its men’s and women’s rugby teams achieved victory, marking the first time a college had won two rugby honors in a single year. The college boat club also boasts an impressive record, holding both the Torpids and Summer Eights headship in 2013. The Pembroke College Boat Club in 2013 held both the Torpids and Summer Eights men’s headship. The college’s history is interwoven with some notable figures. Samuel Johnson, although he didn’t graduate from Pembroke, remains one of its most famous alumni. J.R.R. Tolkien, author of “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings,” was a fellow at Pembroke from 1925-1945. Sir Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes, was a former Master of the college. From royalty to prime ministers to literary giants, Pembroke has hosted a remarkable array of individuals. Pembroke College. A place where history whispers from every corner. A testament to the enduring power of education and the vibrant spirit of Oxford.