Huge Pageant Depicts History of Cambridge

Cambridge Centennial festivities hit full stride last night with the Soldiers Field opening of the pageant "Pillars of Power," followed by a colorful fireworks display on the banks of the Charles River.

The pageant opened with a shameless portrayal of Thomas Dudley, founder of Newton, swindling an Indian squaw out of the land on which Cambridge now stands. Ensuing scene paid homage to the four pillars of power; religion, education, patriotism, and industry.

Education was represented by a re-enactment of Harvard's first commencement exercises, presided over by President Dunster, Governor Winthrop, and Thomas Shepard. According to the narrator, the ceremonies included three hours of "convivialty" in the Yard during a recess from the lengthy speeches.