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This Week in Princeton History for August 28-September 3


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, a sophomore is suspended for multiple infractions, the Tigertones perform for the U.S. President, and more.

August 29, 1803—Sophomore Francis A. DeLiesselin, Class of 1805, is brought before the faculty to address several infractions: “drawing a caricature & writing upon the walls of the College,” having “taken the trumpet out of the servants’ room & sounded it with the design of interrupting the order of the College,” and having “created disorder in the dining room by throwing bread.” He is suspended, but will not immediately learn his lesson; after his readmission a few months later, he will be suspended for unruly conduct again in 1804.

August 30, 1997—The Tigertones perform for President Clinton and guests on Martha’s Vineyard.

The 1996-1997 Tigertones. Historical Photograph Collection, Campus Life Series (AC112), Box AD40, Folder 14.

September 1, 1976—A ban on dogs in dorms takes effect.

A precept with a dog present, 1969. Historical Photograph Collection, Campus Life Series (AC112), Box AD23, Folder 6.

September 2, 1793—James Madison Rutledge writes of leaving Virginia to start college in Princeton, “Bade farewell to my honored parents; also to Mistress Polly Pendleton, who cried much when we parted, and made me promise to write her often. She is a sweet lass—but I am in College now, and must cease to think so much of her.”

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

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