Harvard Yard - Magical

As Wikpedia notes, Harvard Yard is the oldest part of the Harvard University campus – its historic center and modern crossroads.

Harvard Yard contains most of the freshman dormitories; Harvard's most important libraries; Memorial Church; several classroom and departmental buildings; and the offices of senior University officials, including the President of Harvard University.

The Yard is a grassy area of 22.4 acres bounded principally by Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge Street, Broadway, and Quincy Street. Its perimeter fencing – principally iron, with some stretches of brick – has twenty-seven gates.

Lucky me to live in Harvard Yard as freshman in 1985-1986. I lived on the first floor of Thayer, with a view right onto Harvard Yard. I remember Hurricane Gloria blowing through the yard that September, with many tree branches coming down.

I am always struck by the contrast between the hustle and bustle of neighboring Harvard Square and the hushed silence amongst the trees and mostly red brick buildings of Harvard Yard.  Walking through the yard never grows old. It's truly magical – a place apart.

Be sure to watch the video below with Professor John Stilgoe sharing some of the many things he loves about Harvard Yard.