Rites of Passage: How Well do You Know Your Gates?

What is it exactly that keep the freshmen contained? Academic ambition, Draconian proctors? Or is it something physical like Memorial Fence, which encloses all of Harvard Yard? If so, why so many gates? Where do they come from? At least 10 gates, small and unfrequented, were class gifts. But what about the major gates, the ones with inspiring inscriptions, or memorial plaques or the ones most every student passes through every day? Does anyone look up? Do Harvard students love what sets them free? Consider the following test:

Johnston Gate

Finished in 1890, this gate embraces pretension. Unabashedly striving for mature grace, its bricks are handmade and wood-burned to evoke the history and charm of older buildings. Plaques on either side testify to the ancient roots of the College, further distinguishing this gate. Go home Tigers; with Harvard's 98 percent graduation rate, our students can pass through undaunted whenever they like.

Class of 1890 Gate

One mysterious and philanthropic benefactor largely financed this gate, just outside Widener library, though it bares the name of the class. In his stead, the names of Theodore Roosevelt, Class of 1880, and his classmate, former Secretary of State Robert Bacon, are inscribed in the wall. President Eliot also had something to add: n the outside, "Enter to Grow in Wisdom," and on the inside, now partly obscured by Wigg, "Depart, better to serve your country and thy kind."

Meyer Gate

This gate, completed in 1891, carves the space between Wigg D and E. A gift by George von Longerke Meyer, former Secretary of Navy, the gate was designed by Charles Follen McKim.

Class of 1856 Gate

Optimistic Horace graces this venerable passageway. Translation: "Thrice happy and more are they whom an unbroken band unites, and whom no sundering of love by wretched quarrels shall separated before life's dying day" (Odes: I.13). In short, friendship is good for the soul.