1916 Barnard College Student Council in Caps and Gowns

This historical photograph captures a moment from December 1916 at Barnard College, one of the premier women’s colleges in the United States. In the image, members of the student council are seen gathered around a table, dressed in traditional caps and gowns. This attire not only reflects the academic customs of the time but also signifies the commitment and achievements of these young women in their pursuit of education.

Barnard College, founded in 1889, was closely affiliated with Columbia University and aimed to provide women with the same rigorous academic experiences available to men. The student council depicted in the photograph would have been integral to the governance and social life of the college, representing their peers and advocating for student interests. This image gives us a glimpse into their role and the vibrant student life at Barnard during the early twentieth century, illustrating the evolving landscape of higher education for women in America.