The College of New Jersey, founded in 1746, changed its name to Princeton University during the culmination of the institution’s Sesquicentennial Celebration in 1896. Historically, the University was often referred to as “Nassau,” “Nassau Hall,” “Princeton College,” or “Old North.” The College began to expand and diversify its curriculum during the latter half of the 19th century. President James McCosh (1868-1888) was the driving force behind this expansion and was the leading advocate of the name change.

Source: Mudd Manuscript Library Blog