---
title: "Brother Jasper"
url: "/about/history/brother-jasper"
type: page
date: 2026-03-16
updated: 2026-06-16
---

# Brother Jasper

About Manhattan University

# Who Is Brother Jasper?

Brother Jasper of Mary, FSC, is one of the most beloved figures in the history of Manhattan University. A member of the De La Salle Christian Brothers, he served the University during the 19th century and became known for his leadership, dedication to students, and lasting contributions to campus life.

 

 [ History of Manhattan University ](/about/history-of-manhattan-university) 

 [ Lasallian Catholic Heritage ](/about/lasallian-catholic-heritage) 

 

Image

      ![Historic portrait of Brother Jasper of Mary, FSC, namesake of the Manhattan University Jaspers.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/brother-jasper.jpg?h=e5efa180&itok=sicpFxrz) 

 

 

## Brother Jasper and the Early History of Manhattan University

Brother Jasper arrived at Manhattan University in 1861, serving as the head of resident students and later as the prefect of discipline.

During his years on campus, he played a central role in shaping student life. Brother Jasper helped establish many of the early extracurricular activities that enriched the educational experience at the University, including:

- The first Manhattan University band
- The orchestra
- The glee club
- Several student literary societies

He also became the University's first athletic director, helping to organize and guide early athletic programs. [Learn more about Manhattan University Athletics](https://gojaspers.com/).

## Brother Jasper and the Origins of the Seventh-Inning Stretch

In the late nineteenth century, Brother Jasper introduced the relatively new sport of baseball to

Image

    ![Brother Jasper seated with the Manhattan College baseball team in the 1880s, with players wearing ‘Jasper’ uniforms and holding an 1886 Collegiate New York April Games banner.](/sites/default/files/styles/original_aspect_ratio_400/public/media/2026-03/brjasper-baseball.jpg?itok=JYPC__Of) 

Manhattan University and served as the team’s first coach.

As prefect of discipline, he also supervised students attending baseball games. According to University tradition, during one game Brother Jasper noticed that students had become restless while sitting for long periods. To restore order and help students refocus, he asked everyone to stand, stretch, and relax briefly between innings.

The moment became known as the seventh-inning stretch, a custom that later spread throughout professional baseball and remains a cherished part of the game today.

##  Fun Facts About Brother Jasper 

Because a lot has changed since the 1860s.

Favorite color

Green — naturally.

 

 

Favorite place on campus

The Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers.

 

 

Favorite music

Classical music, though he has a special appreciation for “O Shining Star, Manhattan,” the song written for the University.

 

 

Favorite pizza slice in the Bronx

A bacon chicken ranch slice from Goodfellas or the stuffed chicken slice from Broadway Joe’s — both student favorites.

 

 

Favorite emojis

💚 ✝️

 

 

Favorite game day activity?

Watching the Jaspers win and reminding everyone to stretch during the seventh inning.