The Cambridge Tribune calls attention to the fact that the present year is one in which there should be a marked anniversary celebration. "By a singular coincidence, the First Church of Cambridge was organized, and Harvard College founded in the year 1636. Side by side they have pursued their work for nearly 250 years, during which eight generations of men have come and gone, until their quarter-millennial anniversaries are just before us. The success of these time honored organizations reflects new lustre upon their founders, and calls for a proper recognition from their children. We trust this will be forthcoming, and take form in a way which shall do honor to these ancient institutions. The First Church was organized in February, 1636, with Thomas Shepard as its minister. Shepard graduated from Emmanuel College, England, in 1623, and after much persecution from Archbishop Laud of London, sailed for New England in the ship Defence. He arrived in Boston, October 3, 1635, and came to Newtowne (now Cambridge) October 5. A company of some sixty persons soon followed Shepard, and resolved to remain and organize themselves into a church. Suitable arrangements having been made, on the first day of February, 1636 (corresponding to February 11, new style,) a church, the first permanent one in Cambridge was duly organized.

Harvard College was founded in September, 1636, and its first class of nine members graduated in 1842. Its 200th anniversary was duly observed. September 8, 1836. Appropriate services were held in the First Parish Church. A large tent was erected south-east of Gore Hall, on the rising slope, where, after the services in the church, the large assembly of the alumni of the college sat down to dinner."

Active committees have been appointed by both the Overseers of the college and by the Shepard and First Parish churches. A fitting observance of the occasion is anticipated, one that will commemorate the past, and give encouragement for the future.