The first Gazette carried a ‘Preliminary Notice’ which set out the proposed structure and noted its publication of ‘every Tuesday during Term, and at such other times as the exigencies of University business may require’.
It also advised that the official notices of the Gazette would be ‘affixed to the Buttery of every College or Hall and delivered to the several persons within the University to whom the Statues require such notices to be delivered’.
The Gazette was also delivered, free of cost, to every resident member of Congregation and could be supplied to other subscribers at an annual charge of ten shillings.
How has the Gazette changed?
Although much less of the text is now in Latin, the modern version (now published every Thursday in term) still carries much of the original content that is essential for recording official University business. This includes governance notices, details of lectures and vacancies and a diverse range of notices from across the University.
Classified advertising has decreased greatly in volume, with the early copies carrying several pages of display promotions. The first issue included advertisements for Whitaker’s Almanack, a catalogue of Messrs Bagster’s biblical works and a variety of dictionaries (the technical and scientific edition containing ‘upwards of 2,500 engravings on wood’ for the price of £4), as well as an invitation for the sons of gentlemen to board with Litchfield Grammar School at the cost of 58 guineas a term.
How to subscribe today
Subscriptions to the print edition of the Gazette or email notifications regarding the online edition are now free to all members of the University. Visit the subscription webpage to record your preference.
Have your say
Look out for a short survey from the Gazette team over the coming weeks, inviting you to comment on the current format and advise on your preferred way to receive the publication.
