When Wheaton was granted college status in 1912, the old “Cheese Box” observatory became inadequate. Designed and built in 1917 by Wheaton workmen, this new observatory is situated on the hill behind the President’s House. The location was chosen because… Read More »
1917 - 1979The Observatory
1917Frederick P. Fish Speaks at Commencement
Frederick P. Fish, former president of AT&T and patent attorney to Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison and the Wright Brothers, speaks at commencement. Learn more about Fish from Wikipedia.
1918Reverend George T. Smart Speaks at Commencement
Reverend George T. Smart, author and Wheaton College trustee, speaks at commencement.
1918Catherine Filene Shouse
Catherine Filene Shouse was a member of the class of 1918. Daughter of Lincoln and Theresa Filene, Catherine organized the first Intercollegiate Vocational Conference for Women at Wheaton in 1917, while still a junior. Vocational conferences were held at Wheaton… Read More »
1919Reverend Willard L. Sperry Speaks at Commencement
The Reverend Willard L. Sperry speaks at commencement.
1919Elizabeth Baker Lewis Attends Wheaton
In 1919 an African-American student named Elizabeth Baker Lewis attended Wheaton, and had little or no trouble gaining admission to the college.