Dissimilar Gowns Mar Graduation

Because in recent Commencements there have been two different types of gowns worn by the graduating class, the University has started a drive to produce a little more uniformity in the Senior Class's robes.

The two types which now find themselves mixed in the June ceremonies are the so-called "old-type," built along the general lines of a females night-gown, with a hot, heavy collar; and the "new-type," which drapes openly over the wearer and is well-suited for sultry weather.

The "new-type" had been used for bachelors since the 13th Century, but went out of circulation about 1890 when the country was flooded with the "old-type," which are now cheaper to hire or buy.

"Commencement is our most ancient

and interesting ceremony," said Samuel E. Morison, professor of History and historian of the Harvard Tercentenary. "It is the only thing that we have left from the Middle Ages and as such should be respected. It is the policy of the University to encourage the wearing of the proper 'new type' of gown, so that Commencement may be conducted decently and in accordance with tradition.