College Football Hall of Fame

Percy Wendell: The Harvard Halfback and Hall of Fame Star

By Pigskin Dispatch July 16, 2026 1 min read

Percy “Bullitt” Wendell dominated the gridiron during college football’s pioneer era, powering the Harvard Crimson to incredible heights with his relentless running style. (Harvard Magazine)

Football Bio

July 16, 1889: Harvard University halfback and 1972 College Football Hall of Fame inductee Percy “Bullitt” Wendell is born in Roxbury, Massachusetts.

Vintage black and white snap shot photo of Wendell at Harvard in 1912
Wendell was at Harvard in 1912

In 1910, Percy Wendell guided Harvard to an 8-0-1 record by rushing for 103 yards against rival Yale to force a tie.

He later scored both touchdowns in an 18-0 victory over Dartmouth. (College Football Hall of Fame)

Percy Wendell cements his legacy as one of the most powerful and dependable runners in Harvard history. His remarkable consistency and leadership not only earned him multiple All-America honors but also forever secured his rightful place among the game’s immortals in the Hall of Fame.

Accolades and Football Accomplishments

  • College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1972.
  • Consensus First-Team All-American: 1910 and 1911.
  • Second-Team All-American: 1912.
  • National Champion: Led Harvard to a perfect 9-0 record and a national title in 1912.
  • Team Captain: Served as the Harvard Crimson team captain during the 1912 season.
  • Head Coach: Served as head football coach for Boston University, Williams College, and Lehigh University. (Wikipedia)

Timeline Context

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