Historic Photos
Historic Photos
Take a walk down memory lane with this collection of historic photos from the Allegheny archive.
Ida Tarbell, 1857-1944
Ida Minerva Tarbell (1857-1944), who went on to a notable career as a journalist and historian, is one of the College’s most notable alumnae. Her most renowned work was an exposé of the practices of oil magnate and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller in her “History of the Standard Oil Company” in 1904. She later served the College as a visiting lecturer, course instructor, donor of books, trustee, and advisor to presidents, and her desk can still be seen in the special collections of Allegheny’s Pelletier Library.
Campus, College Newspaper, 1876
The Campus of Allegheny College, the official College newspaper, was born in 1876. Initially funded by faculty members, the publication is now familiarly called the Campus.
Newton Observatory, 1902
The 9-inch telescope installed in Newton Observatory in 1902 is still used today and considered of truly high quality. A sidereal clock installed the same year is now on display in Pelletier Library.
Rustic Bridge, 1910
Varying traditions surround the Rustic Bridge, constructed in 1910. In the first years after completion of the bridge, the Senior Class Day speeches were delivered from the bridge to the audiences seated below. The 13th plank — no one knows from which end — has remained an item of interest. In the mid-20th century, taking the plank liberated freshmen from sophomore tyranny. Tradition also said that a first-year woman was not truly an Alleghenian until kissed on the 13th plank. Even today it isn’t unusual to see the 13th plank missing at any time throughout the year.
Senior Comp, 1951
One of the proudest accomplishments for any Allegheny student is the Senior Comprehensive Project, or “comp.” The comp is a significant piece of original, scholarly work required of all Allegheny students. A description of the senior independent project as a formal graduation requirement is first found in the Allegheny College catalog of August 1951.
