1881 Gate

The Class of 1881 Gate features stone pillars with iron decorative elements positioned at a main entrance to Harvard's historic campus. It marks a key access point to the yard and the academic buildings surrounding it.

The gate was built as part of a fencing initiative that started in 1880 and was donated by the graduating class of 1881. It represents an early example of a class gift toward shaping the physical campus.

The gate displays an inscription encouraging the pursuit of truth, showing Harvard's dedication to academic values. This message remains visible to anyone walking through the yard, connecting visitors to the university's core principles.

The gate sits near Massachusetts Avenue and serves as an orientation point for visitors exploring the yard and its historic buildings. The area is easily walkable and well integrated into the campus layout.

The gate is permanently locked and remains a symbolic element even though it cannot be walked through. Despite its role as an entrance, it functions more as a monument to the connection between a graduating class and the institution.

GPS coordinates: 42.37582,-71.11748

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:07