Harvard University Archives Photograph Collections

The Harvard Athletic Association was formed in 1874 and in 1951 became the Harvard University Department of Athletics. Team photographs were taken almost as early as teams formed. The Harvard Varsity Club was first organized in 1886. After some years of waning interest, it was revived in 1908 in order to provide permanent quarters for athletic training and a meeting place for teams and alumni. Photographs are chiefly group portraits of Harvard men's athletic teams, but individual portraits, candids, and action shots of teams are also included. In addition, there are photographs of some Varsity Club events.