In this week’s installment of our recurring series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, a shipment of coal mitigates a fuel shortage, the Triangle Club performs for Eleanor Roosevelt, and more.

December 17, 1917—A new shipment of coal just after the last bit available ran out means there will be enough fuel on hand to last the winter, bringing relief to concerned Princetonians. Measures will still need to be taken to preserve it.

December 19, 1948—Heavy snowfall, reaching 18 inches in Princeton, punctuates the holiday break for students remaining on campus.

December 21, 1938—Eleanor Roosevelt attends “Once Over Lightly,” billed as the Triangle Club’s 50^th anniversary production, in Washington, D.C.

December 22, 1869—James McCosh reports to the Board of Trustees on a surge in enrollment: “It is evident that the public are ready to support the Trustees in their efforts to make the College advance with the times. I am still more pleased with the character than with the number of new students. They belong to all classes of society, rich and poor, and are intended for all kinds of honourable professions…”

For the previous installment in this series, click here.

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