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This Week in Princeton History for November 21-27


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, the Princetonian defends the Class of 1883’s right to wear orange and black, intercollegiate baseball begins, and more.

November 21, 1879—The Princetonian defends the freshman Class of 1883 against charges that they should not be allowed to wear orange and black, made on the grounds that only football players should be permitted to do so.

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November 22, 1864—The College of New Jersey (Princeton) plays its first intercollegiate baseball game ever, defeating Williams 26-16. Princeton does not yet have uniforms. As the Nassau Literature Review will later report, “This fact added to the bitterness of defeat for the well-uniformed Williams men felt disgusted because they were beaten by a crowd of ‘countries’ in shirt sleeves.”

November 23, 1804—The faculty decide to award a need-based scholarship of $60 from the “charitable fund” to Humphrey Perrine of the Class of 1808 to cover the term’s expenses.

November 27, 1901—Edward Burrell of the Class of 1904 accidentally shoots himself in the leg by stepping on his own gun while out hunting with a classmate.

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Edward Burrell, Class of 1904. Historical Photograph Collection, Alumni Photographs Series (AC058), Box SP22.

For last week’s installment in this series, click here.

Fact check: We always strive for accuracy, but if you believe you see an error, please contact us.


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