Currently, in the John Hay Library, there is a small display of photographs and other items about commencement at Brown University. Some of the items on display include pages from the Student Commencement Oration of 1894, a program from commencement in 1810 and a diploma from 1792.
Yes, that is a rooster in the photograph on the left.
The John Hay Library is open 9 to 5, Monday through Friday.
For further information contact hay@brown.edu