Dunster House

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Dunster House is one of the twelve undergraduate residential houses at Harvard University. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Dunster House is known for its distinctive Georgian architecture and its prominent location along the Charles River. The house was named after Henry Dunster, the first president of Harvard University.

History[edit | edit source]

Dunster House was completed in 1930 as part of Harvard's House system, which was designed to provide a more intimate and supportive living environment for undergraduates. The house was named in honor of Henry Dunster, who served as the first president of Harvard from 1640 to 1654. Dunster House was one of the first houses built under the new system, along with Lowell House and Eliot House.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

Dunster House is noted for its Georgian-style architecture, which includes a prominent tower and a large central courtyard. The house was designed by the architectural firm of Coolidge, Shepley, Bulfinch, and Abbott, which also designed several other buildings at Harvard. The interior of Dunster House features a dining hall, library, and various common rooms for student use.

Student Life[edit | edit source]

Dunster House is home to approximately 400 undergraduate students, as well as several resident tutors and faculty members. The house offers a variety of extracurricular activities and events, including intramural sports, musical performances, and social gatherings. The house also has a strong tradition of community service and encourages students to engage in volunteer work in the local community.

Traditions[edit | edit source]

Dunster House has several unique traditions, including the annual "Dunster House Opera," which is a student-run production that takes place each spring. The house also hosts a formal dance known as the "Dunster House Formal" and a variety of other social events throughout the year.

Notable Alumni[edit | edit source]

Dunster House has produced many notable alumni, including Benazir Bhutto, the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Al Gore, the 45th Vice President of the United States. Other notable alumni include Yo-Yo Ma, a world-renowned cellist, and Natalie Portman, an Academy Award-winning actress.