Explore the Gallery

Before "The Yard", there were the grease trucks. This 2005 photo captures students and families gathered around the iconic RU Hungry truck (home to the original Fat Sandwhich) on College Avenue—a beloved Rutgers tradition.

A student speaks out on the steps of Brower Commons during the Anti-Apartheid rally on April 12, 1985. Built in the early 1960s as the first dining hall on College Ave, Brower has long served as a central gathering space at Rutgers—witness to student activism, protest, and calls for justice across generations.

Students enjoying a sunny day together on Voorhees Mall. Voorhees Mall is more than just a green space—it's a living landmark of Rutgers history, embodying the university’s traditions of scholarship, civic engagement, and community.​​

John Simonetti and Jorge Ortiz outside Scott Hall in 1969. Their presence reflects an early and often overlooked part of Rutgers’ history—advocacy for accessibility and inclusion. Since then, disability services at Rutgers have evolved significantly, supporting equal access to education, housing, and campus life.

Sailing Club members set out on a trip down the Raritan River in 1969. Since1864, the Raritan has been home to Rutgers Crew, the university’s first organized sport. The river continues to be a vital site for fostering teamwork, discipline, and connection to campus heritage as the river is where the university gets its Alma Mater, "On the Banks of the Old Raritan."

Members of the Rutgers Bicycle Club pose with a penny-farthing bicycle, circa 1883. As one of the university’s earliest student organizations, the club reflects a long tradition of student-led groups that have shaped campus life. From cycling to cultural, academic, and activist organizations, clubs have fostered community, leadership, and identity at Rutgers for over 250 years.

A group of men gathered in a studio during the late 1900s. Scenes like this reflect the deep roots of student life at Rutgers, where clubs, creative pursuits, and collaborative spaces have long played a vital role in shaping the student experience.​​​

The Cap & Skull Society, Class of 1919, featuring one of Rutgers’ most legendary alumni, Paul Robeson. Founded in 1900, Cap & Skull is Rutgers University’s oldest and most prestigious senior honor society, recognizing the top students of the graduating class who demonstrate outstanding leadership, scholarship, and service. 

The Marching Scarlet Knights in formation on the field, a proud tradition that spans over a century. Since its founding in 1915, the band has played a vital role in university spirit and pride—energizing crowds at football games, parades, and ceremonies. As of 2025, the marching band now has over 300 members. 

A student checks their mailbox, circa 1950s - a familiar ritual in a time before email and smartphones. In the mid-20th century, centralized mailrooms were key features of residence halls and student centers, serving thousands daily. As Rutgers grew, so did its postal infrastructure, eventually adapting to digital technologies while still maintaining traditional mailboxes for packages, letters, and campus notices. This simple act of opening a mailbox once marked a meaningful part of student life and routine.​

Interclass snowball fight, circa 1920s—a spirited tradition reflecting the playful rivalry and camaraderie between Rutgers classes. Class battles at Rutgers historically were spirited competitions and sometimes rowdy contests between different graduating classes, often freshmen versus sophomores, or seniors versus juniors.These events helped build community and class identity, creating lasting memories and traditions still celebrated in various forms today.

Rutgers versus the University of Tennessee at Giants Stadium in 1983. Rutgers football, known as the birthplace of college football, held the first-ever intercollegiate game played in 1869 on the College Ave (where the College Ave Gym stands). Over the decades, the Scarlet Knights have built a proud tradition of athletic excellence and school spirit that continues to energize the Rutgers community.

Members of the Rutgers Booster Club practicing the ‘This is It’ pose in 1949—an expression of school spirit and unity. The Booster Club played a key role in rallying support for athletics, organizing pep rallies, and building Scarlet pride across campus. Their legacy lives on in today’s vibrant student section, traditions, and the enduring culture of Rutgers enthusiasm.

Two students look at a bulletin board to see what campus events are being held over the summer. The campus has always been extremely active in providing events to bridge connections between the community and students. In earlier decades, events like Homecoming, May Day at Douglass, and interclass competitions brought the community together in celebration and tradition. Today, that same spirit thrives in a vibrant mix of cultural festivals, student org showcases, athletic tailgates, and landmark events like Rutgers Day and Dance Marathon. ​​

Agriculture students compete in a milk drinking contest, 1950. Established in 1864 as the Rutgers College of Agriculture, the program grew into Cook College in 1973, named after George Hammell Cook, Rutgers’ pioneering state geologist and agricultural chemist.  Today, its legacy continues through the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, shaping the future of agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Douglass students enjoying ice cream, circa 1970s. 

The establishment of Douglass Women’s College in 1918 provided an empowering and supportive space for women pursuing higher education. Following the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, which ushered in transformative waves of activism and coalition building, Black students across the Rutgers campuses became increasingly vocal in their demands for the creation of Black Studies programs, recruitment of Black faculty, and increased admission of Black students. They helped found influential groups, including the United Black Council, Black Student Union, and the Black House, later Douglass Africana LLC, among others. Over the decades, Black students at Rutgers have and continue to play a crucial role in advocating for racial justice, equity, and cultural organization representation and preservation, helping to enrich campus life, challenge the status quo, and shape the university's diverse cultural student life.

Nina Hoegberg references her subject as she paints, 1980. Founded in 1976, Mason Gross is the university’s professional arts conservatory. The Visual Arts program provides training in disciplines such as drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, video, performance, and interdisciplinary art. With access to fully equipped studios, critique-based coursework, and mentorship from practicing artists and faculty, students like Hoegberg have long developed their creative voice within a supportive and challenging environment. Mason Gross continues to be a thriving space for innovation and experimentation.​

Student volunteer firemen pose on a fire truck, 1947. Many Rutgers students stepped into civic roles both on and off campus, including volunteer firefighting, civil defense, and community aid, following World War ll. Their dedication reflects a broader tradition at Rutgers, where service—whether through ROTC, community outreach, or student-led initiatives—has been central to the university’s identity. This legacy continues today through programs like Rutgers University Emergency Services, alternative break service trips, and hundreds of student organizations devoted to public service and social impact.

Members of the Rutgers Asian-American Coalition for Equality tabling in 2000—representing a growing and vibrant Asian American student community. The first Japanese students were brothers Yokoi Saheita and Yokoi Daihei in 1866. Shortly following in 1867, the first foreign student enrolled at Rutgers named Kusakabe Tarō from Japan. This marked the beginning of Asian student presence on campus. With a growing community, the Rutgers Asian Cultural Center officially opened its doors in 1999, providing a dedicated space for cultural programming, advocacy, and support. ​​​​

Students enjoy a dance event, circa 1950s. Social dances and unified events have long been central to campus life, fostering connections beyond the classroom. From formal balls in the early 20th century to multicultural celebrations and large-scale concerts today, these gatherings have helped shape Rutgers’ vibrant social culture and sense of unity​​​​​​​​

Students conduct a science experiment—continuing a proud Rutgers tradition of innovation and inquiry. As one of the nation’s leading public research universities, Rutgers has played a vital role in scientific advancement since its early days. From the groundbreaking development of streptomycin—the first antibiotic to treat tuberculosis—by Rutgers alumnus and Nobel laureate Selman Waksman in the 1940s, to pioneering work in food science, agriculture, environmental studies, and engineering, the university has been at the forefront of discovery. 

Students play on the field, 1948—capturing the joy of everyday campus life beyond academics. In the years following World War II, Rutgers saw a surge in enrollment thanks to the GI Bill, and with it came a renewed energy for student recreation, friendship, and fun. Whether through spontaneous games on the lawn, club sports, or afternoon gatherings on Voorhees Mall, these moments of connection formed the heart of the student experience. As Rutgers grew, so did its commitment to fostering a vibrant campus life, with intramurals, student clubs, and outdoor activities that have continued to bring generations of students together in play and shared community.

This image, found in the Scarlet Letter Yearbook from 1985, showcases students rooting on the Scarlet Knights at a football game. Rutgers has fostered a passionate fan base for generations, dating back to the first football game in 1869. Whether at SHI Stadium or cheering from dorm lounges, Rutgers students section of the bleachers is always packed with enthusiasm and school pride. ​

Students take part in the Yule Log Ceremony April 11, 1968. Douglass, originally founded as the New Jersey College for Women in 1918, was created to offer women access to a rigorous Rutgers education during a time of limited opportunities. That same year, students established the first college tradition: the Yule Log Ceremony. With candles, holiday songs, and a yule log burning in College Hall, the event was brought to life through student effort and community support. When Voorhees Chapel was built in 1925, donor Elizabeth Rodman Voorhees ensured a hidden fireplace was included to preserve the tradition. Since 1927, the Yule Log Ceremony has continued annually in the chapel, evolving to reflect the diverse cultures and values of today’s Rutgers community while staying true to its original theme of light and unity.

Drama Club production of Friends of Youth, 1913—an early example of student-led theater at Rutgers. The performing arts have played a meaningful role in campus life for over a century, offering students a creative outlet and a platform for expression. From informal dramatics clubs in the 19th and early 20th centuries to the founding of the Mason Gross School of the Arts in 1976, the university has nurtured generations of performers, playwrights, and directors.​

Campus buses outside the Rutgers Student Center. The Rutgers buses, specifically in New Brunswick, began operations in 1961with six buses. Now, the Rutgers bus system is one of the largest university-operated transit systems in the nation.

With a modern new look, the buses remain essential for navigating Rutgers’ sprawling footprint across New Brunswick and Piscataway.​​

A Mr. Magoo comic strip, featuring the bumbling but beloved character is a Rutgers alumnus Class of 1928. Creators wanted this character to have that long-lasting alumni school spirit and they felt Rutgers was the embodiment of the 'old school tie' in America. Over the decades, Rutgers has continued to appear in pop culture. The university has been name-dropped in Jeopardy!, The Sopranos, How I Met Your Mother, Human Resources, and more, proving that the Scarlet legacy extends far beyond the banks of the Raritan.

Students serve themselves in Brower Dining Hall, 2001. Named after Rutgers president Mason W. Gross’s secretary, Evelyn Brower, the hall opened in the 1960s and quickly became the main dining facility for generations of students. Brower has long been more than just a place to eat—it’s been a hub for socializing, student organizing, and cultural exchange. Over the decades, Rutgers dining halls have evolved from formal meal services to diverse, student-centered spaces offering a wide range of global cuisines and accommodating dietary needs, reflecting the university’s growing and changing student body.

Phil Sellers goes up for a layup—one of Rutgers basketball’s most iconic figures. As the program’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder, Sellers led the Scarlet Knights to an unforgettable Final Four appearance in 1976, marking the pinnacle of Rutgers basketball history. The sport has been a cornerstone of campus pride since the early 1900s, with teams competing at the highest levels and producing standout athletes. ​

WRSU members in the recording booth, 1950. Since its founding in 1948, WRSU has been Rutgers University’s student-run radio station, serving as a vital platform for campus voices, music, and community engagement. Over the decades, WRSU has supported student creativity and provided a space for alternative and independent music, becoming an enduring part of Rutgers’ vibrant cultural life.

A student regards a parking ticket with dismay in the 1980s—a familiar scene in Rutgers history. The Department of Transportation Services (DOTS) is responsible for managing campus parking and transportation logistics. In the pre-digital era, parking permits were paper-based, and enforcement was often strict, especially on the College Avenue and Busch campuses where space was limited. DOTS, originally a smaller operation, expanded over the decades to include campus buses, parking services, and commuter programs. 

Scott Hall illuminated at night, 1964. Scott Hall was built in 1963 and is named after the university's 10th president, Austin Scott. It's a modern structure located on Voorhees Mall. Scott Hall is known for its large auditorium-style classrooms, which are often used for events beyond regular classes​​

Students explore in the Rutgers Observatory. Since the establishment of the first observatory in the late 19th century, Rutgers has fostered a deep interest in celestial study, providing students and faculty with opportunities to observe planets, stars, and other phenomena. Rutgers’ observatories, Robert A. Schommer Astronomical Observatory and Daniel S. Schanck Observatory, have supported both teaching and research, contributing to advancements in astrophysics and inspiring generations of students to reach for the stars. ​

A Coffeehouse show in Demarest Hall, 1990 — a snapshot of Rutgers’ long-standing tradition of student-run basement shows and music culture. Demarest, known for its creative community, was (and still is) a hub for intimate performances where students transform common rooms and basements into performance spaces. With the help of college stations such as Rutgers’ WRSU and venues around campus, bands like Looking Glass, The Smithereens, Crossfire Choir, The Blasés, and Spiral Jetty began to grow in popularity and help put the New Brunswick music scene on the map.

A student rests on a bench outside Bishop Quads on College Avenue. For generations, students have carved out pockets of peace across campus, whether between classes or during long study breaks. Students have gravitated to iconic green areas: the lawn of Voorhees Mall, Passion Puddle, Engineering Quads, Bishop Beach, etc.  These everyday spaces form the backdrop of student life—places to read, nap, people-watch, or catch up with friends in the rhythm of campus living.

Members of the Varsity Club pose on the steps of Winants Hall, circa 1915–1916—including Paul Robeson (Class of 1919). This photo captures not only athletic pride but also a visual snapshot of campus identity through the various hats worn by students. At the time, hats signified class year, clubs, or status—such as the freshman 'dinks,' caps for athletes, and distinctive headwear for honor societies or social organizations.​​​​​​​​

Students enjoy the last days of summer in front of Bishop House, September 11, 1982 . Built in 1913, Bishop House has served as faculty housing and a center for student programs. Just beyond is known as  'Bishop Beach'—a spacious, sunlit lawn that is surrounded by numerous dormitories on College Avenue. Over the decades, Bishop Beach has been a favorite spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy outdoor events, reflecting the close-knit residential community and lively student life that continues to thrive.

Members of the Rutgers Yoga and Meditation Club, 2001 — part of a growing movement toward mental wellness on campus. As awareness of student stress and anxiety rose in the early 2000s, groups like this offered calming outlets through mindfulness and movement. Alongside services like CAPS, these student-led efforts helped foster healthier ways to cope with college life.

Audience members listen to a performance during Rutgers Commencement. The first commencement took place on October 12, 1774 with a graduating class of 1 student. From early ceremonies in New Brunswick churches to today’s large-scale events at SHI Stadium, Rutgers graduations have long blended academic ritual with celebration. Over the years, they’ve featured notable speakers, student performances, and time-honored customs like the conferral of degrees by the university president. While the scale and setting have changed, the spirit of marking achievement and transition remains a proud constant in Rutgers history.

Freshman students reading and playing guitar in their dorm room, September 1961. On-campus housing has long played a vital role in shaping the Rutgers experience, offering more than just a place to sleep. Prior to the first dorm, Winants Hall, being opened in 1890, students lived in off-campus boarding houses, fraternity houses, or with their families. Between the 1950s-1970s, many new residence halls were built to accommodate for the shift in wanting to stay on campus and the growing student body. Living on campus has fostered deep friendships, academic support, and community engagement; that tradition of learning and living together continues to define Rutgers residential life today.

A student on horseback patrols campus, 1977. Originally established in the 1970s, the Mounted Patrol was a program under the Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD). Over time, the Mounted Patrol transitioned into a division of the Rutgers Community Service Officer (CSO) program, which is overseen by the Rutgers Public Safety Department. Today’s RUMP maintains a staff of approximately twelve student CSOs, making it the only student-run mounted patrol service in the United States.

Students focused on their studies in a residence hall, September 1959. Throughout its history, Rutgers has emphasized not only excellence in the classroom, but also strong academic support beyond it. By the mid-20th century, residence halls became more than just living quarters; they were key environments for learning, collaboration, and peer mentorship. Rutgers supported this with resources like study lounges, tutoring programs, and faculty-in-residence initiatives. That commitment continues with dedicated learning communities, advising centers, writing support, and research opportunities—ensuring students have the tools and encouragement to thrive academically from their dorm room desks to graduation day.

Student activists during the takeover of the President’s Office on May 4, 1970—a powerful moment of protest in response to national and campus tensions following the Kent State shootings. Rutgers has a long history of student activism, with generations advocating for civil rights, anti-war efforts, gender equality, environmental justice, and more. These movements have shaped university policies, campus culture, and helped foster a tradition of civic engagement and social change that continues today.

Cook College students with a lamb on the Cook Farm. First held in the early 1900s, Agricultural Field Day began as a way for the Rutgers School of Agriculture to share research and farming practices with the public. Over time, it evolved into a hands-on, family-friendly event featuring livestock displays, plant sales, student exhibits, and food. Now part of the larger Rutgers Day celebration, it continues to highlight the vital role of agriculture, animal science, and environmental stewardship in the university’s mission.

This photo captures Rutgers students registering for classes in person in the College Avenue Gym. Before the introduction of the WebReg system students pored over thick printed course catalogs, mapping out their ideal schedules by hand. On registration day, they would line up with paper registration cards, hoping their desired classes weren’t already full. Inside the gym, long tables were staffed by academic departments where students submitted their course selections, had them manually checked, and sometimes had to negotiate alternatives if seats had already been filled. It was a high-stress, high-stakes ritual that shaped the academics of Rutgers life long before the digital age.