The Signet Society of Harvard University was founded in 1870 by members of the class of 1871. The first president was Charles Joseph Bonaparte. It was, at first, dedicated to the production of literary work only, going so far as to exclude debate and even theatrical productions. According to one source (The Harvard book : a series of historical, biographical, and descriptive sketches, 1875. The Signet Society):
- It seemed to the founders that there was room in the College world for another association that should devote itself more exclusively to literary work than is possible with large numbers. Accordingly, they confined the membership to a few, and required that new members shall be, so far as possible, "representative men," and that at least five should be in the first half of their class.
After a few years in quarters on University property, the Signet moved to an off-campus location at 46 Dunster Street.
Read more about Signet Society: The Signet Society's Mission, Architecture, Traditions
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