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Century 21:The 12-House Roundup

By Scott A. Resnick, Crimson Staff Writer March 22, 1999

Dunster House

Made famous by its cameo appearance in "Good Will Hunting," Dunster House's red-capped tower has long been a symbol of old-time Harvard. One House insider says early-bird residents can secure two bed frames at the beginning of the year. This and wood-paneled rooms make Dunster an attractive living space.

House residents extol the virtues of a strong nighttime grill, in addition to the annual Goat Roast at which students, yup, roast a goat in the House courtyard and enjoy the warm spring weather. Presiding over Dunster since the late 1980s, Master Karel F. Liem, Bigelow professor of ichthyology, and co-Master Hetty Liem open their home each year to the company of the Dunster House Opera, which requires a place to change costumes between scenes.

Eliot House

With its prominent placement on the corner of JFK Street and Memorial Drive, Eliot House was long known as home to Harvard's elite. Randomization has muted--but not killed--the House's high-class style.

Among the House's most treasured events is the annual spring formal--known as the Fete--at which House residents and their guests swing dance under a tent in the courtyard, enjoying chocolate-dipped strawberries and champagne when the live band takes a break. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy co-Master Kristine Forsgard's famed cheesecake at House functions, and everyone will soon lunch in extra splendor when the dining hall gets its scheduled facelift.