Yale Day

Yale University’s Old Campus

Yale's Sterling Memorial Library, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, serves as the university's main library and one of its largest. Completed in 1930 and designed by James Gamble Rogers, the library's grand interior features intricate woodwork, vaulted ceilings, and a beautiful stained-glass window. It houses millions of volumes across various disciplines and is a central hub for research and study at Yale. The library is also known for its historic reading rooms and vast collections, offering a quiet, inspiring space for students and scholars. Currently, visitors can explore student-curated exhibits that showcase unique materials from the library's special collections, highlighting diverse aspects of history and culture.

130 Wall St (a very short walk from the Omni!)

8:30 AM - 12:00 AM Friday
10:00 AM - 12:00 AM Saturday
12:00 PM - 12:00 AM Sunday

Landmark Highlight: Yale Old Campus Statues

Statue of Theodore Dwight Woolsey

The statue of Theodore Dwight Woolsey, who served as President of Yale from 1846 to 1871, commemorates his pioneering contributions to intercollegiate athletics and his role in shaping Yale's campus. Woolsey is credited with the design of the current criss-crossing paths on Old Campus, which were laid out during his presidency. According to legend, every time he attended a Yale Crew race, the team would win. Today, students continue this tradition by rubbing his big toe for good luck before big events.

Statue of Nathan Hale

The statue of Nathan Hale, a Yale College alumnus from the Class of 1774, honors his legacy as America’s first spy during the Revolutionary War. Captured by the British, Hale’s famous last words were, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country,” inspiring Yale’s unofficial motto: "For God, for Country, and for Yale."

Interestingly, the statue is not an accurate likeness of Hale. The sculptor, having no reference for what Hale looked like, simply chose the handsomest and most patriotic student as the model. A copy of this statue can be found at the CIA headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, further cementing Hale’s enduring connection to espionage and patriotism.

Statue of Abraham Pierson

This statue commemorates Abraham Pierson, the first rector of what was then called the Collegiate School, which would later become Yale University. Pierson was originally based in Killingworth, Connecticut, where he taught six students—an impressive 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio that Yale still maintains today. The statue was initially placed at Pierson’s home in Killingworth before being relocated to campus to honor his foundational role in the university’s early history.