Collection of humorous verses and sketches relating to Harvard College, 1769

Manuscript volume in various hands containing three general sections: satirical poems about Harvard tutors, a section of "last words & dying" speeches of Harvard tutors, and a copy of the Book of Harvard."

To the Sons of Harvard -- On Mr S. S--s -- A Dialogue between Matutinus & Clementiae Amatore, meeting under the tree on which hung the body of S-n S-l-s -- The last words & dying speech of Josseph Willard who was executed in Hollis Square near Union Hall for high Crimes & misdemeanors committed against the Sons of Harvard Sept. 1767 -- The last words and dying speech of Edward Wiggleworth who was executed in Hollis Square for repeated crimes against the Sons of Harvard. 1769. -- The last words & dying speech of Stephn Scales, who was executed in Hollis Square for atrocious crimes perpetrated against the Sons of Harvard. -- The Book of Harvard.

Gift of Grenville H. Norcross Boston. Received in the Harvard College Library on October 1, 1926.

Other copies of the Book of Harvard are available in the Harvard University Archives.

Title transcribed from note on flyleaf.

The Book of Harvard was written by Asa Dunnar (Harvard College 1767) as a satirical record of the Harvard College Butter Rebellion of 1766. Dunbar led a public protest against the rancid butter being served to students in 1766. The faculty responded by disciplining Dunbar, which prompted a walk-out by Harvard students. Finally after considerable friction between the governing board and students, 155 students signed a confession promising "future good Conduct." The Book of Harvard satirizes the involvement of Harvard President Edward Holyoke (Edward the Chief Ruler), Professors John Winthrop, Edward Wigglesworth, and Stephen Sewall, Tutors Belcher Hancock, Thomas Danforth, and Joseph Dillard, and Asa Dunbar (Asa the Scribe).