Lowell House

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Lowell House is one of the twelve undergraduate residential houses at Harvard University. Located in Harvard's River House neighborhood, Lowell House was established in 1930 as part of President Abbott Lawrence Lowell's house system initiative. The house is named after the Lowell family, a prominent family in the history of Harvard University and the city of Boston.

History

Lowell House was one of the first houses built under the house system, which was designed to provide a more intimate and supportive living environment for undergraduates. The house was named in honor of the Lowell family, particularly Abbott Lawrence Lowell, who served as President of Harvard from 1909 to 1933. The house was designed by the architectural firm of Coolidge, Shepley, Bulfinch, and Abbott, which also designed several other buildings at Harvard.

Architecture

The architecture of Lowell House is notable for its Georgian Revival style, which was popular in the early 20th century. The house features a prominent bell tower, which houses the famous Lowell House bells. These bells were originally part of the Danilov Monastery in Moscow, Russia, and were brought to Harvard in the 1930s. The bells are rung every Sunday during the academic year and on special occasions.

House Life

Lowell House is known for its strong sense of community and tradition. The house hosts a variety of social and academic events throughout the year, including formal dinners, lectures, and musical performances. One of the most notable traditions is the annual Lowell House Opera, which is the longest-running opera company in New England.

Notable Alumni

Lowell House has been home to many notable alumni, including John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, and Natalie Portman, an Academy Award-winning actress. The house has a strong tradition of producing leaders in various fields, including politics, academia, and the arts.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• House system
• Abbott Lawrence Lowell
• Harvard Yard
• Georgian Revival architecture