Across the street from its older sibling, Perkins Hall, stands Conant Hall. This stately Georgian Revival structure graces Harvard University’s campus. Conant Hall isn’t just a dormitory. It’s a living testament to Edwin Conant, a prominent philanthropist and member of Harvard’s class of 1829. He gifted the funds for its construction in 1894, a year after Perkins Hall was completed. Both buildings, designed by Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, create a grand entrance to Harvard’s North Yard. Look closely at Conant Hall. Its thirteen towering chimneys hint at a bygone era, a time when students gathered around cozy fireplaces. While those fireplaces are no longer functional, they whisper stories of generations past. Originally designed for undergraduates, Conant Hall transitioned to graduate student housing in 1905. Imagine the lively discussions that filled its common rooms, designed specifically for graduate student organizations. Picture the hurried calls made from the vestibules of Conant and Perkins, home to some of Harvard’s first payphones. Today, Conant Hall houses 84 single rooms. It has undergone numerous renovations since its original 29 suites. Yet, it retains its historic charm, welcoming graduate students from the arts, sciences, and social sciences. Conant Hall isn’t just a building. It’s a thread in the rich tapestry of Harvard’s history. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, inspiring future generations of scholars.
Rumney Marsh Burial Ground
A chill wind whispers through the aged headstones. This is Rumney Marsh Burial Ground. This historic cemetery dates back to