This copy of the printed program for the commencement exercises held on July 19, 1838 shows the members of the graduating class and the speeches that they were scheduled to deliver.

Joseph Clubine Rhodes, a member of the Class of 1838, receives this diploma as a member of the Belles Lettres Society on July 19, 1838.

Senator James Buchanan writes to Senator Reuel William regarding the 1838 gubernatorial election in Pennsylvania between Joseph Ritner and David Porter. Transcript included.

Senator James Buchanan writes to James A. Caldwell and offers job advice. "I fear you are about to abandon your noble, safe & prudent position without necessity," as Buchanan explains. Transcript included.

The Dickinson College catalog for the 1839-1840 academic year. Through the years, the annual catalog was variously titled "The Bulletin," "Catalogue and Register," "Course Catalog," and similar variants. The catalog typically includes the list of courses offered, requirements for enrollment,...

Dickinson College President John P. Durbin writes C. A. Walborn regarding the case of a Mr. Dodge. "If I can extract any information" from Mr. Dodge, Durbin explains that "I shall have to tell him that we do not consider the case closed at all." Durbin also notes that he is recovering from an...

Senator James Buchanan (Class of 1809) writes to General Garret D. Wall regarding the education of his orphaned niece Harriet R. Lane, whom he raised.

John O. Proctor prepared this oration, entitled “Formation of the Female Character," for the commencement ceremonies held July 11, 1839. Authoring an original speech was among the graduation requirements for Dickinson College seniors at that time. Transcript included.

James G. Hamilton prepared this oration, entitled “The Congress of Panama," for the commencement ceremonies held July 11, 1839. Authoring an original speech was among the graduation requirements for Dickinson College seniors at that time. Transcript included.

William Thomas (Class of 1825) writes to Carlisle lawyer C.B. Penrose, discussing the "election of our entire ticket" and analyzing opposition towards "Loco Focos," a faction of the Democratic party, as well as abolitionists.