Guide to the Samuel Harris Administrative Records, 1867-1869
No restrictions.
Samuel Harris: Administrative Records, George J. Mitchell Department of Special Collections & Archives, Bowdoin College Library, Brunswick, Maine
The George J. Mitchell Department of Special Collections & Archives, like all archives and special collections libraries, is the creation of human beings who have collected, organized, and described things in ways that reflect personal, cultural, societal, and institutional biases. Although we strive to preserve and present collections in a manner that is respectful to the individuals and communities who create, use, and are represented in the collections, we acknowledge that our systems are neither neutral nor perfect. We encourage you to let us know if you encounter materials, descriptive language, or practices that are offensive or harmful, particularly those for which inadequate context or warning is offered. We are committed to modifying and updating our descriptive practices to use respectful and inclusive terminology and appreciate your help in this work. We look forward to supporting you in your research and learning together.
Samuel Harris (1814-1899), former professor of theology at Bangor Seminary, was elected fifth President of Bowdoin College at the suggestion of his predecessor President Leonard Woods. Harris, a graduate of the class of 1833, was the first alumnus to occupy the presidency. Said to have been uncomfortable with his roles as fund raiser and disciplinarian, he resigned in 1871 and went on to teach at Yale University.
This collection contains general correspondence concerning College affairs. Included are letters from the spring of 1867 between Nehemiah Cleaveland, Samuel Backus, and William Smyth concerning Memorial Hall. Most primary source material regarding the early administration of the College is found in the records of the Board of Trustees or in the Records of the Faculty which includes the records of the Executive Government.
1867 Aug 6, Inaugural address of Samuel Harris (printed by Joseph Griffin, 1867)
1867 Spring, Correspondence between Nehemiah Cleaveland, Samuel Backus, and William Smyth concerning Memorial Hall
1867 Aug 6, Inaugural address of Samuel Harris (printed by Joseph Griffin, 1867)
1867 Aug 6, Report of the Examining Committee
1869 May 1, Letter from Ebert C. Smyth to President Harris concerning the "Declaration"