Pt. 2, c. V, § I, Art. I

Rights of Harvard College confirmed

Right Education & Religion Pt. 2, c. V · The University at Cambridge, and Encouragement of Literature

Official text rightpowerlimitif conditionlegal term

Whereas our wise and pious ancestors, so early as the year one thousand six hundred and thirty-six, laid the foundation of Harvard College, in which university many persons of great eminence have, by the blessing of God, been initiated in those arts and sciences, which qualified them for public employments, both in church and state: and whereas the encouragement of arts and sciences, and all good literature, tends to the honor of God, the advantage of the Christian religion, and the great benefit of this and the other United States of America -- it is declared, that the President and Fellows of Harvard College,in their corporate capacity, and their successors in that capacity, their officers and servants, shall have, hold, use, exercise and enjoy, all the powers, authorities, rights, liberties, privileges, immunities and franchises, which they now have or are entitled to have, hold, use, exercise and enjoy: and the same are hereby ratified and confirmed unto them, the said president and fellows of Harvard College, and to their successors, and to their officers and servants, respectively, forever.

Simplified explanation

Citing Harvard College's founding and the value of arts, sciences and literature, it declares that the President and Fellows of Harvard College, their successors, officers and servants keep all their existing powers, rights, privileges, immunities and franchises, ratified and confirmed forever.