Balliol College | College History and University Clothing

Balliol College is Oxford’s oldest college, it was founded in 1263 by John I de Balliol a landowner from Barnard Castle. After Balliol’s death in 1268 his widow continued the work in setting up the college and is considered a co-founder of the college. This college can be classed as the oldest Oxford college as it was established before Merton in 1274 and University in around 1280.

Balliol has evolved its own traditions and customs over the centuries. The patron saint of the college is Saint Catherine of Alexandria. On her feast day a formal dinner is held for all final year students of the college. The festival was already established by 1550 and has been a tradition ever since. The most eccentric event at the college is the The Nepotists carol-singing event. This happens on the last Friday of Michaelmas term each year. Students of Balliol college, congregate in the halls to enjoy mulled wine and the singing of carols.

It has also been home to more than just students, featuring its own resident tortoises. Including Rosa, who was the original tortoise, lived at the college for at least 43 years. Each June, pet tortoises from various colleges are brought to Corpus Christi to take part in a very slow race! Taking care of the resident tortoise is one of the many tasks assigned to Balliol students each year. This position, known as "Comrade Tortoise", has been filled by a student every year. 

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