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This Week in Princeton History for November 7-13


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, a member of the Class of 1903 casts his vote, students burn the American flag in protest, and more.

November 7, 1955—Today’s issue of Life features Princeton mascot Michael A. Briggs ’57.

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The Princeton University cheerleading squad with Michael A. Briggs ’57 as the tiger, ca. 1955. Photo from 1956 Bric-a-Brac.

November 8, 1910—George T. Scott, Class of 1903, votes in Readington, New Jersey, for gubernatorial candidate Woodrow Wilson, Class of 1879.

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George T. Scott’s ballot, November 8, 1910. Woodrow Wilson Collection (MC168), Box 45, Folder 2.

November 9, 1989—Two students burn the American flag on Cannon Green in protest of a federal law banning flag burning. Local police and University officials decline to prosecute or pursue disciplinary action.

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Emergency Committee to Stop the Flag Amendment and Laws pamphlet, 1989. American Civil Liberties Union Records (MC001), Box 2234.

November 12, 1877—Edward Floyd Crosby, Class of 1881, is knocked unconscious during football practice and remains unresponsive for several hours and delirious for several days. While the campus keeps vigil for Crosby, no bells ring in Nassau Hall and the walking paths are covered in bark to dampen the noise of passersby. He is ultimately forced to leave school due to his injuries.

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Edward Floyd Crosby, Class of 1881. Photo from After Twenty Years: The Record of the Class of 1881.

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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