The orange and black hues currently synonymous with Princeton University were introduced by William Libbey, who sold 1,000 yards of ribbon at an 1877 intercollegiate regatta. This act of student branding preceded a career that spanned academic geology, archaeological investigation, and competitive marksmanship, cementing his role as a prominent, if sometimes controversial, figure in American physical geography.
Academic Tenure
Born in 1855 in Jersey City, Libbey followed his 1877 graduation from Princeton by pursuing postgraduate studies in Berlin and Paris. In 1879, he earned the university's inaugural doctorate in geology. By 1880, he held the position of director at the Elizabeth Marsh Museum of Geology and Archaeology, and in 1883, he attained the rank of full professor, specializing in physical geography.
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Libbey participated in the 1877 Princeton scientific expedition to the American West, during which he completed the first ascent of Mount Princeton on July 17. His field research often intersected with anthropological debates. In 1897, he attempted to determine if the Acoma people had inhabited Enchanted Mesa. After a brief inspection of the site, he declared it devoid of human occupation; later archaeological studies proved this assessment incorrect.
Marksmanship and Service
Beyond his geological interests, Libbey maintained an active profile in sport shooting and military service. He achieved the rank of colonel within the New Jersey National Guard and was a member of the U.S. Olympic Rifle Team on two occasions. At the 1912 Summer Olympics, he secured a silver medal in the team running deer, single shots event. Furthermore, he served as the fifteenth Governor General of the Order of the Founders and Patriots of America from 1917 until 1919.
Fast facts
- Born: 1855, Jersey City
- Died: 1927, Princeton
- Education: Princeton University
- Olympic participation: 1912 Summer Olympics
- Notable accomplishment: First ascent of Mount Princeton, 1877
- Military rank: Colonel, New Jersey National Guard
- Professional membership: American Philosophical Society
- Burial site: Princeton Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was William Libbey's connection to Princeton's colors?
As an undergraduate, he promoted orange and black ribbons at an 1877 regatta, which the university subsequently adopted.
Did William Libbey win an Olympic medal?
Yes, he won a silver medal at the 1912 Summer Olympics in the team running deer, single shots competition.
Achievements
- Recorded as anthropologist, archaeologist and geographer
