Edwards Parade

On a crisp spring morning, imagine yourself standing on Edwards Parade. The freshly cut grass tickles your ankles. The sun warms your face. This isn’t just any lawn. Edwards Parade is the heart of Fordham University’s Rose Hill campus. It’s where students lounge, sunbathe, and toss frisbees. This idyllic spot also holds a rich history. It’s named after a remarkable man, Clarence R. Edwards. He instructed military science and tactics at St. John’s College, which later became Fordham, back in 1890. A young West Point graduate, Edwards transformed the student cadets into a force to be reckoned with. His battalion of 200 men rivaled even West Point in national prestige. Imagine these young men, marching with precision under Edwards’ watchful eye, conducting drills in nearby Bronx Park. They even saluted their professors. This dedication laid the groundwork for Fordham’s ROTC program, established in 1926. Edwards later commanded the 26th “Yankee” Division in World War I, earning the Distinguished Service Medal. Today, Edwards Parade serves as more than just a recreational space. It’s a reminder of a leader who shaped Fordham’s military tradition. Every spring, this very spot transforms into a stage for commencement ceremonies, a fitting tribute to Edwards’ legacy.