Graduation Day

This photograph is from the personal papers of Enid Porter, who entered the University of Liverpool Oct 1917 and graduated BA Hons English Literature in 1921. She also studied on courses in Greek, Latin, French, Medieval History and Poetry. 

"Graduation at the Philharmonic Hall was an occasion. Wonderful to have that authorisation to enter the carpeted dignity of Ravenscroft and Willis to be fitted in a gown. Women graduates wore thier mortar boards. Men tucked thiers under the left arm. Consequently there was always the chance of an exchange with a male colleague if one's cap wouldn't balance or seemed to come down over one's ears. Afterwards there were the usual photo sessions, before repairing to the Kardomah in Bold Street with family and friends."

Recollections of Jean Foulds, 1947-1951 (Ref: D716/1/6). 

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother recieving an honorary degree from the University of Liverpool, 1958

Although not of Liverpool students, this surviving film reel footage demonstrates an early degree ceremony at the Philharmonic Hall. 

Abercromby Square is a particular favourite setting for graduation day photographs, as shown in the photographs below - and being a graduate does not prevent loved ones from forcefully rearranging your gown!

"My last ever meeting with the professor [Professor Phillip Edwards] occurred on my Graduation Day. After the ceremony, when we were all spilling out of the Philharmonic Hall and onto the street, I spied him and went to bid my farewell. Dressed in all his academic finery he greeted my mother, shook hands with my father, and hugged me. My father was so proud."

Recollections of Mrs Juliana Thompson, 1985-88. (Ref: D716/1/24)