18th Century (1700-1799)

During the next century, support for Puritan goals diminished in the Colony overall. The Harvard curriculum shifted towards more scientific learning, critical thinking, and reason as forwarded the by Enlightenment, while still emphasizing rhetorical principles and rote learning. The landscape of Harvard changed significantly.

The Old and Indian Colleges were dismantled. Stoughton Hall (1700-1780) was constructed north of the Indian College, perpendicular to Harvard Hall and facing Cambridge Common, using bricks reclaimed from the Indian College building. Massachusetts Hall (1720) faced Harvard Hall, forming a quadrangle that served as the new entrance to the College. Wadsworth Hall was constructed in 1726 and Holden Chapel in 1744. Harvard Hall burned down in 1764, destroying some 5,000 volumes and all but one of John Harvard's books. In 1766, new Harvard Hall was constructed. During the Revolutionary War, Continental soldiers were housed in Harvard’s buildings.