The son of Rev. Samuel Willard, was born at Biddeford, Me., Dec. 29, 1738, graduated at Harvard College in 1765, where he
was Tutor and Fellow; he was inducted into the Presidency of this institution, Dec 19, 1781, in which office he remained
till his death, Sept. 25, 1804, at the age of 64. His remains were deposited in the College vault, in the southerly part
of the burying-ground. In the words of President Quincy, "President Willard was distinguished, as a scholar, for his
acquaintance with classical literature, and with mathematical and astronomical science; as a divine, for learning, candor,
and Catholicism; and, as the head of the University, for a union of paternal kindness with firmness in supporting the laws.
His manners were simple and reserved. His deportment dignified, and his character serious and contemplative. Having been
called to the President's chair in the midst of the Revolutionary war, when the general tone of morals was weak, and the
spirit of discipline enervated, he sustained the authority of his station with consummate steadfastness and prudence.
He found the seminary embarrassed; he left it free and prosperous. His influence was uniformly happy, and throughout his
whole connection with the institution, he enjoyed the entire confidence of his associates in the government, the respect
of the students, and the undeviating approbation and support of the public."

Appendix	Andrew Belcher Elijah Corlet Stephen Day Henry Dunster John Fessenden Nathaniel Gookin Samuel Green Roger Harlekenden Jonathan Mitchel Thomas Shepard Gregory Stone Vassal
Linx	Cambridge Genweb Epitaphs Home Epitaphs By Year Surname Index

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