Old Friends, New Memories

In some respects, it was unparalleled in the history of any American educational institution,” marveled the People and Patriot newspaper of Concord, New Hampshire. The occasion? The unprecedented multiclass reunion in Hanover, which drew at least 237 alumni from 57 classes and 19 states on June 27, 1883, the day before Commencement. The paper marveled at alumni who had returned after 40 or 50 years, some traveling an “unusual pilgrimage” of 1,500 miles for “this love feast of Dartmouth’s sons.” A Chicago judge, John Wentworth, class of 1836 and president of the alumni association, had summoned alumni in May, assuring them there was “no financial scheme connected with this gathering” and urging their attendance. (Excerpts from his flyer appear on the following pages.) By the turn of the century, “the notable gathering,” as the People and Patriot called it, had exploded into festivities that included children, wives, parades, class uniforms, dancing, and party tents, as well as the tradition of having the 50th reunion class attend graduation and bond with the new alumni.