History & Traditions

Bucknellians enjoy a rich legacy of symbols and traditions. Convocation and candlelight in the Academic Quad. The Christy Mathewson Gateway. First Night. The Bison mascot. Chrysalis. The Orange and the Blue. The Alma Mater. Homecoming and Reunion. From its founding in the “wilds of Pennsylvania” in 1846 to its status today as one of the nation's top liberal arts institutions, Bucknell's history is marked with symbols and traditions that connect the first seven graduates in 1851 to more than 48,000 living alumni worldwide.

Bucknell of Yesteryear & Today: Capstone Course (taught by Prof. Russell Dennis; entire course -- video, documents & images)
History
Events
Symbols
Awards
Explore Bucknell's History (photos & maps)
Photo History of Bucknell (interactive)