Future President William Howard Taft at Yale College

Class photo of William Howard Taft, Yale College B.A. 1878, and later Chief Justice of the United States and President of the United States. Retouched by Marmaduke Percy.

In 1878, William Howard Taft, who would later become the 27th President of the United States, was a student at Yale College. Born in 1857, Taft was just 21 years old at the time and had already begun to establish himself as a promising young man with a bright future.

During his time at Yale, Taft was known for his intelligence, strong work ethic, and leadership abilities. He was a member of several student organizations, including the prestigious *Phi Beta Kappa* honor society, which recognized his academic excellence. Taft also became a prominent figure in Yale’s social life, known for his involvement in sports and extracurricular activities. While his primary focus was his studies, Taft was also an avid athlete and participated in rowing and wrestling, showcasing his physical strength and competitive spirit.

Taft's time at Yale was formative in shaping his later career. His academic interests were varied, but he developed a strong foundation in law, which would serve him throughout his professional life. His education at Yale set the stage for his entry into law school and his eventual rise in American politics.

Despite his academic successes, Taft’s years at Yale were not without challenges. He was often overweight, which made him the subject of teasing among his peers. However, this did not deter him, and he went on to lead a highly successful career, first as a lawyer, then as a judge, and eventually as the President of the United States.

Taft’s time at Yale in 1878 marked the beginning of a journey that would lead him to high office. His experiences there, both academically and socially, played a significant role in molding the man who would later serve as president and make important contributions to U.S. law and governance.