by April C. Armstrong *14

In this week’s installment in our recurring series, the president addresses rumors that Princeton will close, students hold a “war meeting,” and more.

August 26, 1942—President Harold Dodds addresses rumors that Princeton University will close to make room for an expanded naval training unit.

August 28, 1990—Vincent Gregg, who retired from his position in the biology department after just under 53 years of service in 1959, turns 100 on this day.

August 29, 1974—A tree growing in Prospect Garden has been registered as the tallest dawn redwood in New Jersey. It is thought to be the largest in the country.

August 30, 1862—As the Union Army suffers defeat in the Second Battle of Bull Run, students hold a “war meeting,” then parade about town calling on various houses and asking for residents to give patriotic speeches. A few will follow this with a visit to New Jersey Governor Charles Smith Olden to seek his support for a plan to form an “Independent Military Company” made up of college students who will join the fight.

For the previous installment in this series, click here.

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