The SPHINX | Spring 1917 | Volume 3 | Number 2 191700302

THE 8 r n INX

EVERYBODY'S NUMBER Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity APRIL 1917

DlKKllUKl

THE SPHINX. V O L III, No. 2.

APRIL. 1917.

WHOLE N o . lO

EVERYBODY'S NUMBER

MSSk

O F F I C I A L O R G A N OF T H E

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Devoted exclusively to the interests of the Organization and its Members.

John Mitchell, Jr.. Printer.

S1J A'. Jfth St., Richmond. Vc

THE LOST. I t is again necessary to publish the names of those persons with whom we 'cannot establish connections. Will you send us just a card with the addresses of all whom you know as soon as you read this list over? Each should have a copy of this number. The list has been cut fully in half since our last issue, and we want to get in touch with all the others before we go to press again. See what you can do, now.

ALPHA Alumni: Butler, V. O., Callis H. A., Ftigett, J. R., Morton, J. H., Plummer, N. A., Wilson, F. B. Non-Resident: Crippen, C. H., Smith,

J. E. BETA Alumni: Ellis, Dr. John, Giles, Dr. William, Johnson, Oscar, Junior, B. H . , T.ee, Dr. E. H., Miller, Dr. Francis, Owens, Charles, Smith, Charles E , Willis, Dr. Albert, Wilson, C. G., Wilson, clford, Wright, Dr. Wilbert.

GAMMA Alumni: Benson, Dr. J. W., Compton, Dr. Cleveland, Scott, J. M„ •\ EPSILON Alumni: Alexander, Dr. J. H., Campbell, C. A., Cooper, F. B., Dodson, Dr. N. W., Evans, L. S., Fisher, B. H., Gamble. Dr. P. B., Henderson, C. J., Hilburn, 1. II., Hill, Richard, Johnson, Lindsay, Middleton, Dr. C. C , Persley, Dr. A. B . , Purvis, Dr. A., Sparks, Dr. S. D , Thomas, Efc\ W. T., Watts, R. P., White.

D r . John, Wiggins, Dr. H .

Honorary: Naters, P. H., Walden, A. T., Calvert, Dr. Fred, Cary, Dr. U. P. THETA Has No Directory.

ZETA Honorary: Fenderson, F. W., Hanes, David. Nutter, I. R. Alumni: Johnson, A., Ish, Jefferson.

KAPPA Alumni: Beckham, Cars.on, W. E., Clay, H. A., Gordon, J. A., Henderson, L. P., Hicks, H. Ml., Nundy, Steckland, G. W., Ward, F. W., Walkins, L., Turner, A. A., Howell, W. H. Non-Resident: Brogdale, Dr. C. H., Miller, C. E., Owens, C. N., Simmonds, E. P. XI Alumni: Taylor, E. A. Honorary: Cherry, D. K., Jackson, A. L. SIGMA \'im-Resident: Baxter, E. W.

OUR NEXT ISSUE Will be the Undergraduate Number. Material of especial interest to the Chapters and active members will be emphasized. Chapters may insert pictures of groups of their members by notifying the Editor early enough, of such a desire. All copy must be in Richmond not later than October ist—by September 20th, if possible.

1

THE PLACE OF THE FRATERNITY IN NEGRO COLLEGE LIFE. I S a natural outgrowth of the social " • instinct of man, as result of the birdof-a-feather-flock-together tendency, the Greek Letter Fraternity has found its way into our colleges and universities.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the first Greek Letter Fraternity among Negroes, was founded at Cornell University in 1906. In the following year, a chapter of the same fraternity was established at Howard University. This was followed by the establishment of chapters of the Alpha Phi Alpha in other institutions ; so that, up to the present time, this fraternity has established nineteen chapters.

The Alpha Phi Alpha was followed by other fraternities in rapid-fire order. At present there are thirteen distinct Negro fraternities comprising forty-five chapters in twenty-two different institutions of higher learning, of which sixteen are white, and six are colored. jVDorgan College, Wiley University, and Virginia Union University each has a chapter of some one of the fraternities.

Howard University has seven fraternities (including two sororities), Wilberforce has six (including one sorority), and Lincoln has three. The total membership of the \ T egro fraternities at the present time, as nearly as can be ascertained, is one thousand, four hundred eighty-four. This remarkable growth of Negro fraternities in ten years speaks eloquently in behalf of the capacity of our young men for efficient organization.

The fraternity is occupying an im]>ortant place in Negro college life. In the larger universities the fraternity is a necessity,—more than this, it is a blessing to the Negro student. In these schools the Negro student feels keenly a

sense of isolation and of social ostracism.

There the Negro students are few in numbers and are struggling against all sorts of odds. They have problems of discrimination to solve and stern prejudices to overcome; hence, it is natural for these students to organize for their own protection and for social advantage.

Then, too, the Negro in the larger colleges often finds himself overwhelmed . by the immensity of his environment.

In many cases, he comes from a small school, and from an ancient order of discipline, to a big school, some of the classes in which are larger than the entire enrollment of the school which he formerly attended. Very often he comes into contact with a large city with its many attractions and distractions.

Under such changed conditions, the student is likely to lose a great deal of time in trying to find himself. New methods, endless schedules, and work, work, WORK,—this is what our students find in these schools. Certainly it is natural for the Negro students in these schools to get together and to stick together.

In the Negro colleges, the fraternities developed among different groups of young men, each group having certain likes and dislikes in common. At first the fraternity in the Negro college was a sort of drifting, aimless organization with nothing much to do. At first, the fraternity at Howard was merely a matter of monotonous, monthly meetings; a collecting of dues, or a trying to collect dues—which were usually overdue.

After tinkering on the constitution and the ritual there was nothing more of interest to happen until the thrilling initiation of new members, and the ac-

4

THE SPHINX

conipanying feed of stewed frankfurters and hot cocoa.

Finally came the annual General Convention. There the Negro students fiom the Negro schools came into contact with Negro students from the white universities. This latter class of students brought a spirit and a purpose to these conventions, for they had problems. It was these conventions that caused the students from our colored schools to find themselves, so far as the fraternity is concerned. Gradually the true spirit began to develop throughout the organization, and the members began to appreciate its opportunities and its possibilities.

The fraternity affords our students a wholesome environment, a group of congenial associates—a group larger and more various than the family, but much smaller and less various than the whole community. Every human being craves a limited group of congenial associates Jiaving some common interest. In the student's life, this craving is satisfied by the fraternity.

The fraternities are making comfortable homes for their members. At the present time there are ten chapter houses occupied by the various Negro college fraternities. Four of these chapter houses are located at Howard University.

These homes are well furnished and home-like. In them the fellows live as in a family. They are not so many as to make their homes public lodging places. There we find comfort, but none of that plush-flush luxury that characterizes the chapter houses in some of the white fraternities.

As evidence of the good will and approval of the faculty at Howard, it may be interesting to note that at one of the chapter houses one of our most honored professors makes his home; in another, two members of the faculty take their board. In this connection we may add

that one of the chapters at Howard rents its house from the university.

The young men's dormitory at Howard furnishes accommodation for only one hundred and seventy students. No accommodation is furnished for professional students, with the exception of the theological students. The bulk of our student body is thrown into contact with a large city, and the young men are put to the necessity of lodging in private houses in the city and of boarding in restaurants. The fraternities are relieving this situation greatly at Howard, and I find that the same is true in other schools, especially in the larger universities, where very often Negro students are excluded from the dormitories.

The conduct of the business affairs of the fraternity gives the students valuable training in the exercise of economy and responsibility. One of the fraternity men who has figured prominently in chapter management and in fraternity life in general made this statement to me some time ago: "Our fraternity handles between $2,500 and $3,000 annually. There is not a single case of the misplacement of a penny, or any evidence of the slightest inclination on the part of any member to misplace a cent."

He said further: "It seems to me that here are the germs of large business establishments and corporations among colored people in the future."

Through the agency of the fraternity conventions, a strong racial solidarity is being founded, which must exert an inestimable influence upon our future development.

Our fraternities in the larger universities are forming- a strong bond of union among the Negro college men who are destined to become the leaders of to-morrow.

Our fraternities are keeping the men in the Negro colleges in close touch with the same grade of students in the larger

THE SPHINX 4. The percentage of honor students institutions. Out of this grows a com(those having a grade of eighty and parison of standards, which will have a above) was higher among fraternity constant tendency to react upon our students than among non-fraternity stuNegro schools in such a manner as to dents . demand, to secure, and to maintain a Since I began publishing this record high and a modern standard of education.

The fraternity has a powerful influ- of scholarship, the averages of aJl the ence upon the individual student. A groups have increased, with the Greek student who would otherwise be careless Letter groups well in the lead, making in his conduct or poor in scholarship an increase in the general average of becomes a different fellow when he is the students in the collegiate departtaken into a fraternity. He then feels a ments.

Fraternities take advantage of the new sense of responsibility, and will be natural tendency of men to form sharply careful not to do anything which will differentiated groups. Fraternities take reflect upon his fraternity. these groups, harness their energy, and I am one of those who believe that the turn it to good account when otherwise fraternity is a positive aid to scholarship. it might spend itself in the frolicsome I know this to be true in individual cases, and [ believe that I am justified in saying unreasonableness of youth, or in the form that this is true of our fraternities in of organizations much less to be desired general. In 1914 I began to keep a re- and certainly less effective in any praccord of the scholarship of the fraternity tical way.

In many schools where fraternities are and the non-fraternity students in Howprohibited we find secret societies of the ard University. My observations have most vigorous sort, although they do not not gone far enough to be of any very have a Greek Letter name. It is to be great significance, but I found at the bedoubted that their influence is less perginning that the fraternity scholarship nicious than that of a legalized, chartered was better than the non-fraternity scholnational fraternity, embracing in its arship.

•membership students from the various In making this study, it is my object, by publishing the fraternity and non- colleges.

Contrary to the opinion of many, the fraternity averages at the end of each semester, to stimulate scholarship in the fraternity is not an organization that collegiate departments of the university. ceases its organized activity after grad1 hoped that this would cause a worthy uation from college. The fraternity is rivalry among the fraternities themselves not an undergraduate fetish. During his and would, at the same time, spur on the undergraduate days, the fraternity man non-fraternity students. The limited is merely undergoing a training for servstudy that I have made so far discloses ice. It must be understood that every fraternity has a specific aim. Wherever the following facts: 1. The average of fraternity men was you see a fraternity man, no matter to what fraternity he belongs, he is conseabove that of non-fraternity men.

2. The average of the sorority women crated to some particular form of service.

The fraternities are pouring annually was above that of non-sorority women into the South their alumni members who and above that of fraternity men.

3. The Greek Letter average was carry into the communities in which they labor a true spirit of sacrificial service,— above the Non-Greek Letter average.

6

THE SPHINX

service for which these men are the better prepared because of their being a part of an organization that creates in the heart of man the capacity for lasting friendship and a willingness to

sacrifice for the well-being of his fellowman.

N U M A P. G. ADAMS, Washington, D. C.

THE HISTORY AND PURPOSE OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA. A T R U E application of the saying that **• great accomplishments have humble beginnings, is the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. In the Fall of 1905 a number of Negro students registered at Cornell University. It had been the first time in the history of Cornell that the citizens of Ithaca had seen so many students of the race enter the university with an expressed determination of succeeding by force of effort.

Negro students had been in Cornell before, but never so many as now. It had frequently happened that one or two of the few Negroes enrolled had either been sent home for insufficient scholarship or had left before completing a course. If is safe to say that prior to 1905 npt more than fifteen Negroes had been graduated from Cornell, although its doors had always been open to the race. A large percentage of this fifteen had been women of the race, who have always demonstrated at Cornell the best and greatest possibilities of the Negro, both in conduct and scholarship.

Since 1905 I can recall personally over thirty-five Negro graduates and not more than six of these women. Besides this number there have been several that I do not know personally. Twenty-six of these graduates were members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

The fellows soon realized that we were before the bar of public opinion and must govern our actions in and out of school accordingly. This was the condition which confronted the ten or more Negro students who found themselves

that Fall in Cornell. We realized that we must accomplish efforts by help to each other and to those who surrounded us.

We soon formed a little literary and social club with the late Prof. Charles C. Poinclexter, the only Negro student taking graduate work, as our President.

We had about ten fellows and two co-eds in the club but the young ladies, finding themselves so greatly outnumbered, graciously withdrew from the club. Some of us made ourselves members of the local Zion Sunday School and a few became teachers. In this manner we showed our interest in the affairs of the Negroes of Ithaca, who were actually doing something for the uplift of the race.

As is natural, when a number of young men are constantly together in class room and out, we soon became greatly interested in each other. We were soon helping each other in school work and in our different daily occupations, for nearly all of us were working for our board in the various fraternities around the campus. If one of us had a dollar it seemed the common possession of all.

Thus we were' soon spoken of by the town people as the most united bunch of Negroes that had ever entered Cornell.

Don't think that we were different from other young men in the art of cutting up. We were as full of life and noise as the average student and some of us had more than the average. We gave our landladies much trouble because of the rackets we would make in our rooms.

THE S. HINX Cornell is one of the greatest Fraternity centers in the country and as we came in contact with the members of these clubs every day we could not but see the spirit of helpfulness and comradeship displayed by them toward each other.

No doubt we unconsciously imbibed some of their spirit, for we were daily growing closer and closer in helpfulness and usefulness toward each other. Some of us began to think and expressed our thoughts to each other. If a fraternity could unite fellows in such bonds of friendship and usefulness because of the oath they had taken, we must have a fraternity.

After several individual talks we brought the matter up at one of the meetings of our literary club, for discussion.

Some thought the idea good and others thought it foolish. It was brought up at several meetings before action was taken and in the Spring of 1906 we decided to change our club into a fraternity.

The following men voted for the change, and became the original founders of Alpha Phi Alpha: Henry A. Callis, Charles S. Chapman, Robert H. Ogle, Vertner W. Tandy, Nathaniel A. Murray, James H. Morton and George B. Kelley.

A committee was named to find a suitable name and George B. Kelley was elected President of the Fraternity and Robert H. Ogle was elected Secretary. The name selected by the committee was the -Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity."

In the Fall of 1906 we began to discuss the advisability of expanding or of becoming just a local fraternity. We then realized that what we had found should be shared by others and resolved that as soon as possible we would form chapters of our fraternity and if possible make the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity the means of uniting the most earnest and industrious Negro students in all the leading Negro and white universities

7

and colleges of the country, t We realized that in no better way could the spirit of race helpfulness, race pride and upright living be taught than through these little groups of men. As they leave college they impart these ideas unconsciously to others and show to the world that the Negro college men are practically united for race uplift. Although this was our dream it was not until 1908 that we began to see it realized.

In the Fall of 1906 we had our first initiation which had been carefully worked out by some of the seven and I am glad to say that a great part of this original initiation is in use today. The initiates were Lemuel E. Graves, now a Professor in the A. and M. College, at Tallahassee, Florida; Eugene K. Jones, Secretary of the Urban League, of New York City, and Gordon H. Jones, now a successful engineer with the Public Service Commission in New York City. How we did labor with these three men to impress upon their minds and bodies the great importance of Alpha Phi Alpha!1 Their excellent records in life show how well we succeeded.

In 1908 the Fraternity was incorporated under the laws of the State of New York as the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity of Cornell University. During this same year began the realization of our dream of expansion, for through the efforts of Brother E. K. Jones we formed the Beta Chapter at Howard University and the Gamma Chapter at Virginia Union University.

It seemed a fitting application to our purpose that our first chapters should be among our own schools. Since 1908 sixteen active, one graduate and one alumni chapter have been formed. Our chapters are founded in all of the largest universities of the East and West where there are a sufficient number of Negro

THE SPHINX

8

students and in four of our Negro universities, Howard, Virginia Union, Lincoln and Wilberforce.

We are now more than 700 strong and enrolled in our fraternity are some of the most successful and best known

men of the race. Thus has the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity come through these past ten years increasing its membership and broadening its vision of usefulness.

GEO. B. KEEEEY,

N. Troy, N. Y.

IDEALS FOR WHICH ALPHA PHI ALPHA STANDS. ' T H E Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is the •*• answer to a definite need on the part of Negro students of College grade.

Its organization is the result of the thought of seven men of high ideals on this need. Therefore the fraternity has a purpose, and if the writer is capable of interpreting it, that purpose is threefold : to emphasize first of all a fraternal spirit among the best Negro college men, to develop in them to the highest that subtle essence called character, and to focus Negro study upon Negro achievement. \BROTHERHOOD

Fraternities without brotherhood are like libraries without books. Br&therhood is the very essence of fraternal life, and brotherhood or friendship in its higher manifestations is a worthy aim for any man's efforts. Every normal man during his college days whether for better or worse is touched by its magic, and Alpha Phi Alpha tries to give a common bond around which this normal social tendency may express itself profitably.

This brotherhood or higher friendship has of course its lighter moments when nonsense gives zest to the meetings of the members for purely social purposes, but again it serves also as a medium through which ideals higher than the merely social are inculcated. Brotherhood is not less but greater when it is used as a check on the sometimes unrestrained vivacity of students, or as an incentive to better and better classwork,

or to a nobler character. The bond of Alpha Phi Alpha is intellectual and moral as well as social.

CHARACTER

Alpha Phi Alpha teaches personal purity and holds it up before its members as a worthy and attainable ideal. The fraternity expects every man to be a gentleman throughout, to be guided by a lofty self-respect, but it dignifies personal purity by special attention because of its special relation to the sanctity of the home and the morality of the race. The fraternity is not primarily reformatory however, it is rather inspirational. It does not take bad men and strive to make them over.

It attempts rather to set the pace in clean living, and sterling scholarship, giving examples to the students without its precincts that they may strive to develop such a character as will cause them to be considered worthy of the honor of membership. There is evidence in more than one school that students rejected because of some defect in character or scholarship have been led to pull themselves together in order to be eligible later. In this way again the fraternity is a character-building institution. The formation of character then is an Alpha Phi Alpha ideal.

KNOWLEDGE

Alpha Phi Alpha men by their presence

9

THE SPHINX at a college attest their interest in education as such. But they go further than that under the fraternity banner. The fraternity has very definite reasons for insisting upon thoroughness of study on the part of its members. Alpha Phi Alpha is not characterized by a spirit or policy of "watchful waiting" nor of "armed neutrality," but it is marked by a policy of constant war against prejudice whether in themselves or in others.

It recognizes that knowledge is a most effective weapon in combating it.

It is almost mathematically true that prejudice exists in inverse ratio with depth of knowledge and breadth of view.

As Xegro college men suffer more from it they need a fuller equipment to offset it. They too shall "know the truth and the truth shall make them free." They need to be brave in facing a fact, to be open-minded to receive new thoughts

though inconsistent with those formerly cherished; they need with passionless severity to be prepared to denounce and discomfort ignorant, superficial or malicious criticism, to recognize and profit by unfavorable criticism when it is based on fact. In short they need minds skilled and disciplined by the acquirement of a full measure of knowledge. i'.rotherhood, character, knowledge, these three. They have a good sound in the land. Alpha Phi Alpha is doing its bit to make them practical objects for the efforts of each of its members, aided by each other. They may never be reached in their complete fullness. But any organization which exalts them will in time find its place in the sun. Any organization which exalts them will have a permanent reason-to-be.

J. M. SAMPSON.

Richmond, Va.

SOME ALPHA PHI ALPHA MEN WHO ARE MAKING GOOD A period of about two years was passed HE year [906 marked a new epoch in the history of Negro institutions. perfecting organization and developing ]'n 111 that time dates the beginning of basic and fundamental principles, and the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the in 1908, a Charter was granted in the pioneer Greek letter fraternity among State of New York; and four years later college men of color, which today stands the Fraternity was incorporated in the unquestionably as the strongest organi- District of Columbia as the "General zation of its kind, and as an everlasting Organization of the Alpha Phi Alpha monument to the sagacity, patriotism and Fraternity of the United States and Canforesightedness of seven Xegro students, ada."

Any movement may be safely adjudged formerly of Cornell University. by the results of its endeavors; and this, The names of the founders of our organization are too well known to be in turn is largely influenced by the calibre repeated to members of the Fraternity, of the individuals actively identified with hut their mention is not deemed super- it. The spirit of "Alpha Phi Alpha" fluous in an article contributed for the has been manifested at the seats of the enlightenment of friends of the Fra- largest and most notable institutions of ternity, hence, they follow: Henry A. learning in the United States, and its Callis, Charles A. Chapman, George B. standard bearers "have gone forth, and Kelly. Nathaniel A. Murray, James H. are still going forth, into every field of Norton, Robert H. Ogle and Vertner W. creditable endeavor on this continent and abroad.

Tandy.

T

10

THE SPHINX

In spite of the great handicap which presents itself to a man of color about to venture forth into the great world arena the Fraternity notes with pleasure some of its constituents who are acquitting themselves in a manner deemed worthy of mention.

GEORGE B. KELLY, C. E.

Brother Kelly is one of the founders of the Fraternity and a native of Troy, N. Y. After completing the work of the elementary schools of his native city he entered the Troy Academy, private institution. During his attendance here he was particularly apt, and active in the cadet corps, and to such an extent that he was awarded a "gold medal for excellence" in military drill.

Later he earned promotion to sergeant of his company.

1 laving completed the requirements for graduation at Troy Academy Brother Kelly entered Reus Polytechnic Institute, also at Troy, where he pursued work leading to the civil engineer's degree for three years, taking his fourth and last year and degree from Cornell. University.

For a time after his graduation he was engaged with a contractor in the construction of re-enforced concrete buildings at Batavia, N. Y. About this time the State of New York had under course of construction the Barge Canal from ISuffalo to Albany at an aggregate cost of $150,000,000 and after passing a rigid Civil Service examination, our brother was appointed one of the corps of engineers engaged in the work. He has since passed examinations for more difficult and responsible parts of the work and is still engaged in the same mammoth operation. Brother Kelly is one of the Fraternity's most ardent workers.

FREDERICK H. MILLER, A. B.

The Fraternity looks with delight upon the progressiveness

and success of Brother Miller, who is one of its most shining exponents in the commercial and agricultural world today.

Our brother returned to the State of his nativity, Mississippi, after taking his bachelor's degree at the University of Michigan and pursuing the study of law in that institution. Here, in Round Lake, Bolivar County, he began business as a planter of cotton. To quote the words of his secretary: "Mr. Miller owns and leases fifteen hundred acres of delta land, and in connection with which he owns and operates an $8,000 cotton ginnery."

And continuing, says: "He is also a buyer of cotton, handling for the past year over one thousand bales. These two enterprises alone aggregated s u m s amounting to $200,000.00; and one transaction alone involving $20,000.00."

"Brother Miller also has the distinction of being president of the People's Brick Company, of Mound Bayou, Mississippi and also of being the son-in-law of the late B. T. Green, one of the founders of that town. The brick concern is capitalized at $10,000.00. The Solvent Savings Bank of Memphis, is a Negro enterprise and Brother Miller occupies a seat in its directorate and is 'actively connected with several other Negro enterprises. During the five years of his business activity he has built for himself a solid foundation, and is highly esteemed by both races."

Brother Miller is yet a young man, born January 16th, 1888. His early educational training was received from his mother and at Stringer Academy, Friars Point, Mississippi. He afterwards attended the public schools of Baltimore; later pursued courses of study at Howard University and Oberlin College and finally completed his educational training at the University of Michigan in 1911.

THE S] HINX In recognition of the notable success which has attended the efforts of this, our brother, in Y. M. C. A. work we are pleased to quote from the Colored American Review in its issue of last July: "The membership of the colored Y. M. C. A. of Baltimore has increased in one year from 92 to 596. The man behind this sudden growth is S- S. Booker, the executive secretary.

"Mr. Booker is a thinker and a hustler, and always was. Born near Farmville, Virginia, he attended the schools of Danville and Virginia Union University, graduating from the latter in 1910. He belonged to the Glee Club, the Debating Team, the football team, the student 'Y' and the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity of which he was the first general secretary.

"In 1910 he took up Y. Mi. C. A. work in Chattanooga. After three prosperous years be was transferred to Indianapolis as Educational and Employment Secretary. There, in one of the $100,000.00 buildings he learned all the branches of Y. M. C. A. management.

"In 1915, Dr. J. E. Moreland, the National Secretary, persuaded Mr. Booker to take up the Baltimore work.

"Then began his real difficulties and achievements. He was a stranger in Baltimore, and the local branch had less than one hundred members. He faced the difficult task of overcoming public indifference. Nothing daunted, he put his whole self into the work. He organized community meetings to acquaint the people with the Y. M. C. A. In the Summer he established a Life Problem Club and a City Wide Tennis Tournament that brought in 35 men and boys.

The Laymen's Evangelistic Campaign of ten days was attended by 5,542 people; 2,500 dedicating themselves to Christian service and 28 accepting Christ at once.

SIMEON

S. I'.OOKER, A. B.

11

"The biggest feature of the year was a collection campaign, in which 105 men canvassed over 2,000 persons to raise funds for the new building. More than $2,000 was collected, making the lump sum of the building fund over $116,000.

The men pledged themselves to keep their organization intact until they could raise the balance of $9,000 required to meet the Julius Rosenwald proposition."

The Review continues: "The result of this energetic and unremitting work may be appreciated by comparing the 1916 with the 1915 conditions. In 1915 when Mr. Booker took charge, the attendance was 653 and the membership 92: and in 1916 attendance was 8,840 and membership 596, with men begging for a chance to join. If any other Y. ML C. A. branch can equal this record we should like to hear from it."

It is pleasing to note that under the guidance of Brother Booker the present membership at the Baltimore Y. M. C. A. numbers 820 men and boys. The Association, of which he is executive secretary, is preparing to construct a building to cost $100,000, of which $15,000 has been paid by colored citizens and pledges accruing $10,000 are due during this year.

Our brother holds membership in the following organizations: Secretarial Alliance of the Y. M. C. A., the Masonic Fraternity, the Knights of Pythias, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (Baltimore Branch), in all of the Social Service Organizations of the city (Baltimore) and finally he is Treasurer of the General Organization of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. 4I EUGENE KINCKW! JONES, M. A.

Brother

Jones is actively engaged in the work of the National League on Urban Conditions among Negroes and has been for the past six years in the capacity of Executive

12

THE SPHINX

Secretary. The work of this notable organization is regarded as being too well known to mention, and in passing, simply state that it is doing much to promote social, economic and civic uplift among the colored people. Identified with it are such men as John T. Emlen, A. S. Frissell, Robert R. Moton and Kelly Miller.

After receiving his bachelor's degree in arts at Virginia Union University in 1906, our brother successfully pursued a course in civil engineering for a short time at Cornell University and later in the graduate school of that institution specializing in Sociology and Economics for one year and a half. In 1908 he presented a thesis on "Progress of the Negro American since his Emancipation," and for which he was awarded the degree of M1. A. In the following Fall he accepted the chair of Social Science at State University, Louisville, and in February of the next year the position as general assistant in the Central High School of Louisville, continuing this work until the acceptance of the office as Field Secretary of the Committee on Urban Conditions among Negroes in April, 1911.

When the latter organization became the National League on Urban Conditions among Negroes as a result of expansion, Brother Jones was successively advanced from Assistant Director, to Associate Director and finally Executive Secretary.

He is identified with a number of social welfare organizations: Social Workers' Club of New York City as President, the Big Brother and Big Sister Cooperating Committee, Special Committee cooperating with the Board of Health on sanitary conditions on Columbus Hill, Special Committee on Vocational Opportunities for Colored Girls at the Manhattan Trade School, Advisory Legislative to the Committee on Special Schools of the Board of Education, Howard Orphanage

Board of .Managers, Association of Neighborhood Workers, Board of Directors of Lincoln House, Branch of Henry Street Settlement, Secretary of ISoard of Directors of Sojourner Truth I louse. These organizations are mostly situated in and about the City of New York.

Our brother is a native of Richmond, \ a. Me was born July 30, 1885, the son of Joseph Endom Jones, professor at Virginia Union University, and Rosa Kinckle Jones, instructor in music at I lartshorn M'emorial College, Richmond.

We will recall him as President of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity when it was first incorporated in New York State.

During the time that the duties of this office were incumbent upon him, he had the pleasure of organizing Beta, Gamma and Delta Chapters at Howard, Virginia Union and Toronto Universities respectively, GEORGE WILLIAM COOK, A. M., LL.

M.

Professor Cook entered Howard LTniversity in 1874 and has since been connected with that institution without interruption in the role of student, teacher and officer.

These incumbencies have afforded him an excellent opportunity of helping shape the characters of a large number of the picked youth of color. An alumnus writes: " and so well has he grasped this opportunity that he is universally respected and loved by several generations of Howardites in all parts of the country."

Professor Cook entered the College of -Arts and Sciences after completing the work of the Preparatory Department and was graduated in 1881 receiving the degree of A. B. He studied law at his Alma Mater and was given his bachelor's degree in law in 1887 and the following

THE SP HINX year his master's degree.

After graduation from the College he was appointed Instructor in the Normal and College Departments of Howard University. From 1889 to 1900 he was Principal in the Normal Department, in 1900 he was elected Dean of the Commercial College and remains so today.

As Secretary and Business Manager of the University since 1908 he has acquitted himself with despatch and much of the physical development and improvement which the grounds and buildings have undergone during the last decade are due to his energy, judgment and acquaintance with the needs of the University and the expenditure of its funds.

On several occasions he has been designated to act in the stead of the President of the University during that officer's absence.

Prof. Cook is a native of Winchester, Ya. His father moved his family to Pennsylvania during the Civil War at the time of "Banks' and Shield's retreat" from the Shenandoah Valley. He lived in Harrisburg for nine years and then in New York City for three years and from there he went to Washington, D. C. and matriculated at Howard University. Beta Chapter elected him to honorary membership .

KELLY M"ILLKR, A. M.

A man is known

by his works and we feel that the works of Professor Miller have made him well known to every reader of meritorious race literature. As Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University he has the distinction of being in charge of the largest body of colored collegians in the United States; as such he stands as an example and an inspiration to his pupils.

Need any more striking testimonial of his worth and efficiency in his present position be cited than the fact that in the

13

past eight years of his deanship the enrollment lias risen from sixty to four hundred students? Professor Miller is a native of South Carolina, a graduate of Howard University and a sometime graduate of Johns Hopkins University.

W. E. B. DuBois, P H . D. Dr. DuBois was elected to honorary membership in Epsilon Chapter and his position as a champion of the rights of his people and his relations with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and its official organ, "The Crisis," have made him well known to both races.

L. CURTIS, M. D. Dr. Curtis is an energetic and progressive physician who is moving to the fore in the medical world with remarkable rapidity. Shortly after being admitted to the practice of medicine and surgery in 1913, he was appointed Instructor in Physical Diagnosis and Anaesthesia in the Medical Department at Howard University. In 1915 he was added to the staff at Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D. C , in the capacity of Visiting Junior Surgeon and following this he received appointments as Demonstrator of Junior Surgery in the Medical Department and to the .Major Surgical Staff at Freedmen's Hospital.

Dr. Curtis was born in Chicago in 1889 and moved to Washington in 1900, here completing his elementary education. After entering Williston Seminary in 1905 he became very active and popular as a student and served for one year as associate editor of the school paper; and two years later a member of the Debating and Basketball Teams. The Amherst Cup for excellence in debate and the annual prize for public speaking were awarded to our brother. Only twice in the history of the institution ARTHUR

14

THE SPHINX

were these prizes awarded to the same individual, and never before or since have they been awarded to a student of color.

DWIGIIT (). YV. IIOI.MKS. A. ML

Born in Lewisburg, West Virginia, our brother received his early aducation in the public schools of Staunton, Virginia, and Mew York City.

Later he pursued courses in the College of Arts and Sciences of Howard University. In 1901 he received the degree of A. B. from that institution taking first rank in scholarship. In the following year he took courses in pedagogy at Howard: and thereafter taught in the Sumner High School at St. Louis. At its Commencement in 1914 his Alma Mater conferred upon him the degree of A. M.

and was re-elected the following year.

He is also Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Baltimore Branch of the National Equal Rights League; and also a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

CHARUSS A. LKWIS. A. M.,

M. D.

We

know of no other physician who has devoted more time and energy to the great public health menace, tuberculosis, than our brother. Dr. Lewis. Though a comparatively young man his original investigations along the lines of tuberculosis among Negroes have undoubtedly been more extensive than any yet undertaken by single investigators. He is also deeply interested in housing conditions and public health in general among Negroes Cornell University similarly recognized and is a frequent lecturer upon these him as a result of his graduate' work subjects. under the instruction of John Dewey in It appears that our brother received Philosophy, Edward L. Thorndike in his first inspiration to enter this great Psychology and Paul Monroe in Educa- field of preventative and curative medition, the thesis which he presented for cine while a student in medicine at the his degree having been prepared in con- University of Pennsylvania, and at one sultation with the latter. During 1901 of the oldest and largest institutions of and the year following he pursued cours- its kind, Blockley Hospital, Philadelphia. es at Johns I [opkins University.

His interest and sympathy were aroused Brother I Eolraes has taught in the Bal- by the large number of colored patients timore High School since the Fall of observed in the tubercular wards; and 1902, meanwhile receiving promotions also from the loss of several of his colto the headship of the Department of leagues from the dreaded disease at Science of that institution in 1906, and Lincoln University. to the Vice-Principalship in 1909. DurShortly after his graduation in mediing these years he has always taken active cine in 1910, his arduous and noble work interest in public affairs, having served was greatly facilitated by his appointas I'resident of the General Alumni As- ment to the Phipp's Institute for the sociation of Howard University from Study of Tuberculosis, a branch of the 1911 to 1915, and as President of the University of Pennsylvania. This was Schoolmasters' Club of Baltimore during an encouragement and a distinction not the first two years of its existence from before, nor since, enjoyed by any physi[913 to 1915. cian of color.

As a result of his work on Sociology In 1915 he was elected President of the Baltimore Educational Association and Socialism at Lincoln University and

THE s: HINX the University of Pennsylvania, from both of which he was a graduate, he was given his A. M. In 1911 Dr. Lewis began to investigate the housing conditions among Negroes in Philadelphia's slum district. Much of the material in the way of statistics and photographs collected by him was used by the Housing Commissions of the Phipp's Institute and the City of Philadelphia in framing new laws at Harrisonburg upon this subject.

Dr. Lewis is a charter member of Rho Chapter.

D E HAVEN H I N KSON, M.

15

Phi Alpha, stand back of them? We must have at least one Chapter Song from each Chapter before May 10th. We plan to have the Book go to press soon after that date. Surely we must have some Schuberts, Webers, Strauses or even Victor Herberts among our number. Get busy, scribblers, and flood the Committee with your products!

VICTOR R.

\l/2

DALY,

Alpha,

Chairman, Song Committee.

Central Ave., Ithaca, N. Y. PERSONALS

D.,

Coatesville, Pa.

Brother Norris, Zeta,.is entered in the famous Townshend Prize speaking con\ I. I'll A P H I ALPHA SONG BOOK. test in the Yale Law School. His subject will be on, "A League to Enforce For several years Alpha Phi Alpha has Peace." Contest will be in May. regretted the fact keenly that the FraBrother J. F. Williams, Zeta, has a ternity has no little group or collection of leading role in the Annual Morality Play songs to which it may look with pride to be given by New Haven's young draand say, "These are our own." Our matic talent in April. He took that of Alumni have no Alpha Phi Alpha re- "Experience," last year in the play of union song, which they can sing each the same name. year at the Convention. Formerly we Brother Robert A. Cook, '20, Alpha, have always advanced a good excuse for succeeded in leading his Chapter in this deplorable state of affairs. We were scholarship during the past semester. too busy with the construction of the He only received four A's and one B, frame work Fraternity, to pay attention which netted him an average of 94 per to any but essentials. cent. Doubtless "Bob" led more than > Now that we have succeeded in doing his Chapter, there are about seven hunthat much, and the machinery has been dred in his Class besides himself, if you set in motion we must look about us for can count them. the lubricants that will keep the machinBrother C. A. McCoy, 'iq, Alpha, who ery well-oiled and in smooth working is the only colored student in the Chemisorder. Nothing can do this so well as try College,, at Cornell, has procured a the power of song. It has moved the position for the Summer in the testing seers of the ages, and it will move the department of the Anheuser-Busch children of the future. The Song Com- I'.revving Company, in St. Louis. mittee appointed at the last Convention G. A. Morgan, of the National Safety has taken hold of the work of publishing Device Company, was recently presented an Alpha Phi Alpha Song Book, with a with a medal by the N. A. A. C. P., as grim determination to succeed at any a reward for heroic action in the tunnel price. disaster in Cleveland. The Mayor and Will you as loyal Brothers in Alpha other dignitaries were present.

THE SPHINX

16

THE SPHINX Published the First Week in February, April, October and December, by the General Organization of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., at . Richmond, Virginia.

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief V. D. Johnston Associate Editor, D. W. Davis (Gamma) Managing Editor, A. A. Thompson (Gamma) $1.00 the Year

Subscription

Tliia publication is intended for members of the Alpha Phi Alpha only Address all communications to The Editor-in-Chief APRIL,

1917.

TO HER.

I

X dedicating this first public appearance to the more deadly of the species The Sphinx only recognizes the inevitable.

For it has long since been ordained that Everybody's Number should be for Her particular benefit, though other purposes are included less openly. It has been a cause of serious concern to The Sphinx as to whether an issue intended for Her, particularly, should be called Everybody's. We beg pardon for the use of this all-inclusive term. Her approval is a chief concern.

This dedication is primarily a recognition of the fondness of the undergraduate for entangling alliances. But with some the tendencies of undergraduate days become chronic afflictions. We hope She finds herein a better understanding of Alpha Phi Alpha whether we reach Her in a dog-eared condition from across the campus, thru the college library, anonymously by mail, or, as is becoming increasingly possible, we can be discussed across the table beneath the soft rays of a reading lamp, in family fashion, after a hard day's work. May

Alpha Phi Alpha assume in some measure, for Her, the importance it has for us.

ALPHA PHI ALPHA. l^TRST in point of historic origin, Alpha * Phi Alpha has striven to make itself that in all worthy causes. It has ever sought to make a part of its membership those who rank first in scholarship, in school activities, and in possibilities. For this reason Alpha Phi Alpha is gradually becoming a dynamic force in the life of all worth while colleges, and a binding force in the efforts of those who are fast assuming leadership in the World's Work.

Bound up in the effort of all Alpha Phi Alpha is the desire to serve. In this we but follow the example of the Greatest of all Men. Without this all our effort would be useless. To serve even the least is a rule bred into the very bone and fibre of Alpha Phi Alpha long before each enters upon his chosen field of usefulness.

Yet without the greatest of these all our efforts would be without results. To achieve is the end of all effort. First in origin and in content, bred into the habit of service, it is not enough for Alpha Phi Alpha to prove equal, but Alpha Phi Alpha must prove, and is proving, superior, in its field of activity. Thru the broadening influence of a firm fraternalism Alpha Phi Alpha is gradually taking to itself the leadership in the lines its members follow. In each the dynamic force is the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha.

The Editor takes this means of thanking those brothers at Nu, Rho, and Beta who were so kind to him during his recent brief visit to Lincoln University, Philadelphia, and Washington, D. C. Active members who become alumni or

THE SPHINX non-resident members in June are asked to notify the Editor of their new location so the October issue can be sent to them.

Others who change their addresses at any time are asked to notify the Editor as well as their chapter secretaries.

The Editor acknowledges receipt of

17

five dollars from Brother O. W. Baker, Bay City, Mich., and one dollar each from Brothers Hinkson, of Coatesville, Pa., T. T. Nichols, Kansas City, Mo., and L. P. Johnston, of Chicago, for subscriptions. Has yours been paid? Delay only makes payment less probable. Write the Editor at once, if you want the next issue.

CHAPTER NEWS. ALPHA CHAPTER Cornell University Brothers, Greetings: Alpha takes this opportunity in the final issue of The Sphinx for the current school year to wish all of her sister chapters "Godspeed" until next Fall, and we feel safe in asserting, that whatever these few intervening months may have in store for us, even if it be to risk our lives for the honor of our country and the safety i if our homes, that undying and inquenchable spirit of service, born with our advent into Alpha Phi Alpha, will pervade rvery action and motive.

Realizing that the only way to bring about the uplift of the Negro, the masses in particular, is by education, Alpha has bent every effort this year, toward the formation of a Public Forum here in Ithaca, to which townspeople of our race may come weekly, and hear present-day problems relating to themselves, thrashed out in an intelligent manner; furthermore by active participation in the discussion, in preference to mere passive listening, their interest has been aroused and sustained, and the results are marvelous.

Efforts have been made to procure the most prominent Professors in Cornell to address the Forum at various times and several engagements have been booked.

If nothing else has been accomplished

this year Alpha feels that she has given her mite toward the fulfillment of that ancient prophecy, "Ethiopia shall stretch forth her hands to God." However, there is another field of endeavor along which Alpha has been actively engaged this year, and that is, an effort to bring to the notice of the colored high-school boys in the East, the great advantages offered by our large Eastern Colleges, at relatively low expense, as compared with the average boy's estimate of the cost of a college education.

This has been done by the distribution among the Colored High Schools and Y. M, C. A's. of "Circulars of General Information" published by Cornell University. Several letters of inquiry have come to us as a result and we feel that our efforts have not been in vain.

Alpha's "House Fund," which was started last Spring is growing steadily; faithful Alumni Brothers are sending contributions and from a mere germ, the fund has grown to quite a large embryo.

Finally, our attention is now riveted upon the publication of the first Alpha Phi Alpha Song Book. Every effort is being bent to make the book a monument to the present administration. All of our own scribblers are at work, and after a process of elimination and a strenuous use of "hammer and tongs" we feel that the Alpha Phi Alpha Song Book will become one of the dearest treasures of

18

THE SPHINX

every son of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Brother Dean Kelly Miller and Brother Dean L. B. Moore, honorary members of Beta and Brother Eugene Kinckle Jones, of the National Urban League of New York City.

Brothers Hill and Shirley, of Nu were BETA CHAPTER in Washington for the Inauguration and stopped at the Chapter House.

Howard University Brother Emory B. Smith, the TreasDear Brothers—Greetings: urer of the newly formed General AlumThe spirit which so aroused en- ni Organization of the Alpha Phi Alpha thusiasm, upon the return of our dele- Fraternity, together with the President, gates from the Ninth Annual Convention Brother F. H. Miller, and other officers in Richmond, is still rampant among the of the organization are working hard to brothers of Beta. We are well pleased get in touch with the various alumni with the manner and ease with which our members throughout the country. new brothers have caught the spirit of The first Alumni Convention will be Alpha Phi Alpha. held in Atlantic City, N. J., September I trother Dyett was successful jn win- 3-4. We wish to spur on the Alumni to ning a place on the Varsity Debating greater efforts and are cooperating with Team. He and his colleagues will re- them in every respect. Even now we present Howard University in its debate are endeavoring to bring together at with Atlanta University hjere, on the Easter time, as many of the Alumni brothers and others as possible, for a evening of April 13th.

On Saturday evening, February 3, sort of reunion. We are striving to llrothers Williams and Moore entertained make the alumni feel a closer relationship the Chapter with a smoker. In addition between themselves and the active body. to whist, Brothers Lennox and Merrill Thus from time to time we hope by Curtis rendered some very pleasing im- these reunions to propagate a greater personations and recitations. The speech- love for and a broader spirit of Alpha es of our various honorary alumni and Phi Alpha. active members were quite inspiring.

J O H N P. SAMPSON, JR. Altogether the evening was very enjoyably and profitably spent.

Wre wish to express our gratitude to Brother R. A. Milburn, who visited us GAMMA CHAPTER recently and gave the brothers a most pleasing dinner.

On the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th of March, Howard University celebrated her FifVirginia Union University tieth Anniversary. .Many old Howard students returned on this occasion to Xo year in the history of our Chapter participate in the ceremonies. Among has been so replete with success as this them we were glad to welcome Brother present one. It has been a great blessing Clair, of Sigma, formerly of Beta and to Gamma in many respects. At the Brother C. W. Richardson. Among the very beginning of the school year with speakers of the Semi-centennial were the Ninth Annual Conventon as an inVICTOR R. DALY, Ithaca, N. Y.

THE SPHINX centive, all the brothers returned eager to make Gamma's reception the best possible in every respect. And with this one objective, the work of preparation for the Convention was carried on in the most cheerful and unified manner. Today, we have reason to be proud of such concerted efforts on the part of the brothers, for from all sides the report comes that the delegates and General Officers and visitors were more than pleased with the comforts afforded.

Moreover, the opportunity which all the members of our Chapter had, of seeing the Convention in session and of getting in touch with men who exemplied the true Alpha Phi Alpha spirit in all respects, has meant much indeed.

Never in the history of Gamma have the brothers striven to exemplify all thethings for which our Fraternity stands as they have since this last Convention. Heretofore it has been a rather difficult matter to determine the attitude of the faculty with reference to our Chapter. Things have happened from time to time, in days gone by, showed that the faculty was by no means favorable to our existence, but their cooperation with us in preparation for the Convention, and their help during the sessions, assures us in definite terms that they stand ready to assist us in any project we undertake.

We note with no little pride that as a natural sequence of ability, our members are leaders in practically all the student organizations, and no project is undertaken for the good of the whole school in which Alpha Phi Alpha men are not among the leaders. In scholarship, our members are leaders and by ever striving to do their best, we hope to raise the scholarship of the whole department far above what it is today.

W.

A.

HALL.

Richmond, Va.

19

EPSILON CHAPTER University of Michigan Epsilon proudly announces the fact that all of the brothers have triumphantly passed thru the ordeal of the first semester and in many instances maintained records that would do honor to the most talented. The efforts of each brother is now turned toward maintaining an even higher scholarship this semester. Of all things Epsilon emphasizes the fact that a creditable scholarship shall be and must be maintained by all the brothers.

Brother A. A. Taylor, who was doing post graduate work, left at the end of the first semester in order to accept a position with the Negro Urban League of Xew York City. All of us are thoroughly confident that unbounded success will crown his untiring efforts in his new field oV activity.

The first regular meeting of the second semester was resplendent with brotherly spirit. The business of the day was the election of offilcers. Our esteemed President. Brother A. J. Pope, as well as the other officers of the first semester were all unanimously re-elected.

A plan is now on foot for the purchasing of a chapter house. All of the brothers, as well as a number of the alumni brothers are full of enthusiasm and bending every effort toward the successful consummation of this plan. "Let us own our home" is our slogan.

Epsilon is fearful lest one of our most recent initiates will transfer his pin to a fair one ere he has worn it, but Brother Butler says it is all a joke.

Brother F. J. Raiford, senior of the medical college is the recipient of much praise due to the fact that he has recently shown all of his classmates that he is a deft surgeon. As a matter of fact,

THE S PHINX

20

our brilliant brother performed a few rather troublesome and creditable operations. The university hospital now has nothing but good words for "Dr. Raiford."

P.rothers L. S. Evans and A. L. Evans are now doing special work in scientific school with the firm determination of entering the medical school next year.

Epsilon now has a dining department.

This year only a small proportion of the brothers are represented but next year our dining department will be all inclusive and will stand second to none.

Brother Bertrand Styles is meeting with a successful term in the dental clinic. All of those who have been his patients say that he rightly "styles" himself a painless dentist.

The next big event for Epsilon is our annual banquet. This banquet will undoubtedly be the greatest of years, and will serve the two-fold purpose pf baptizing our recent initiates into true Alpha Phi Alpha spirit, as well as rejuvenating the spirit of most of the old brothers.

Epsilon wishes for each chapter unbounded success.

W. H. T., Ann Arbor, Mich.

ZETA CHAPTER Yale University The close of the college year will divide Zeta into two classes: one that will go out into the stormy world; and a second that will continue in the college world. Between each however Alpha Phi Alpha will still remain as an eternal bond of brotherly love and cooperation.

The pleasant memories, rooted in the activities and joys of Alpha Phi Alpha, which we shall cherish, will serve to strengthen that bond.

Zeta feels it particularly fitting here to go over in a general and concise way the work of the past year, that in honestly critical spirit she may turn to plans for 1917-18.

The benefits of association and solidarity are familiar to every student of the theory and practice of society. We have not in selfish isolation endeavored to maintain such only among ourselves, but clearly awake to the need of such among the entire colored student body, in a University like ours, we have in various ways tried to foster this spirit among all. To this end we have instituted periodic smokers for all.

We have fostered the formation of a musical and literary club, membership in which is open to everyone in the University. This organization is a reality.

It has adopted altruistic aims, and during the Easter recess it will give a series of entertainments in several New England cities. These, it is expected will not only serve as a source of wholesome amusement to the public, but also as an inspiration to many.

Mindful of the fact that Alpha Phi Alpha is the standard bearer of Education, we have striven in ways that appeared feasible, to carry out this part of the fraternity program. We found it impossible, owing to our small numbers, to continue this year the classes in free instruction in elementary education, begun last year, but nevertheless it is a work this Chapter intends to resume as $oon as possible.

Another mode adopted to carry out this idea was thru public debates. The second annual debate between Zeta's team and the Tewamine Club's team, (of Brown University) will be held in .Mav. The debate last year at Providence was very instructive and most highly commended by all present.

THE S HINX

21

Again, Zeta men have taken an interest Alpha, and others. individually in local high school clubs And as we thus "take stock," we find and helped the members of these formu- that although we have done something, late plans for a higher education. either successfully or unsuccessfully, yet Finally, we have shown an ever will- we could perhaps have done more. But ingness to participate in the literary and we realize that "what is rite is rite." We musical activities of the city which make are not as strong as some of our sister for uplift. For three years members of Chapters in respect to numbers, owing this Chapter have taken an active part to our situation. Yet we sent two delein the annual Easter morality play given gates to the Annual Convention. by the young dramatic talent of the enWe swelled our numbers by our Fall tire city; and this year is no exception. initiation and intend to take in a few Thus Zeta has become a real, active, more men at our Spring initiation. But recognized force in the life of both the when we face the fact that graduation is University and city and this fact is at- almost at hand, and just what that will tested in part by the fact that at the mean to Zeta, we feel the necessity of Frederick Douglass—Booker Washington working harder individually and collectMemorial Exercises and Dinner, held by ively, to make up in spirit what we lack a very prominent men's club of the city, in numbers. among whose guests being Dr. William GEORGE VAN WHITTED. Pickens, Mr. Chisholm, of Tuskegee and Brother John Clark, of New York, our Chapter was honored by an invitation to lend its presence and voice to the spirit THETA CHAPTER of the occasion.

We have endeavored too, to "brighten the corner" where we are. When Brown's fo. itball team—rather Pollard, (which University of Chicago fact alone consoled us)—beat Yale, Zeta saw to it that the hero of the game as In October, nineteen hundred and sixwell as the other Brown boys, were well teen, Theta Chapter reorganized its taken care of while in our city. Nor did organization with an enrollment of twelve we fail to provide for the entertainment active members. The men who respondof our brothers, friends'and all visitors, ed to the call have shown admirable who flocked to New Haven for the great enthusiasm, and loyalty even under clash between Yale and Harvard on adverse circumstances. At this particNovember 25, and we believe that their ular time, the Chapter is extremely forreception will be a pleasant memory to tunate in having a few of its original them as well as to us. number, and in addition, Alumni from Whenever a brother has come into our various Universities. midst, we have tried to make him feel Among the older members are Broththat we are really his brothers and we ers Mlacbeth, Glover, Sykes, Cooper, Lee, are happy to say that we have met none Lewis, Hall Ph. C , Norwood, Brown, D. who have not similarly impressed us. D. S., and Dismond. The men who have Among such mention might be made of become active members from other Chaplirothers Mitchell, of Epsilon; Mac- ters are Brothers English, M. D., Giles Lendon and Lewis, of Sigma; Clark of M'. D., McGee, Johnson, Alexander,

22

THE

SPHINX

Davis and Trammel.

KAPPA CHAPTER As the Chapter is now on a fine working basis, we intend to carry out the OhJO S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y fundamental principles of our Fraternity.

We wish to form a more perfect union Greetings: We are glad to greet you a ain a n d t o l e t v o u k n o w t h a t t h e s i r i t among college men ; we wish to assist & P them in any way that will be of benefit; o f Paternalism is still uppermost in our we uphold manhood, and we respect vir- l e a s t s . We were proud to learn from tue and the honor of womanhood; we Mother Johnson, our delegate at the last pledge ourselves to fight prejudice, in- Convention, of the good work which the justice, outrage and to procure, if possi- Convention accomplished and of the good ble, a "square deal" for all. impression achieved thru the open sessFurther, we wish to come into closer i o n s - A n d w « have taken steps to perrelation with those in the community in f o r m t h e recommendations of the Conwhich we live. Plans, to this end, are v ention by strict adherence to the prinbeing worked out within the organization c i P l e s s e t d °wn in all our daily acts. We and are rapidly assuming definite form. are planning a banner year.

The Alumni of Theta have been, ° u r present active membership is without exception, successful in their twenty, and we are planning to initiate various professions. Among this num- a good many more into the sacred mysber, are Brothers Jackson, M. D., Chica- t e r ies of our fraternity. The measure go, B< >ger, M. D., Milwaukee, Rosenberg, setting the date of payment of the Grand Ml. D., Indianapolis, Dawson, M. D., Tax in May, we think was a good one, Jacksonville, Browne, D. D. S., Chicago, and we shall be ready with ours.

Thome, D. D. S., Chicago, English, M. Xext year. Kappa will join the other D., Chicago, Crosthwaite, D. D. S., Chi- happy Chapters which have the blessings cago, and Judkins, LL. M., Marion, Ind. of a Chapter House. We hive a plan Much credit is to be given Dr. Giles, which is sure to be successful and before of Alpha Chapter for his persistent ef- another year shall have elapsed we shall forts in trying to make Theta Chapter realize our dream of a home, which we a factor in the world's work. The reac- have been longing for and striving for. tion of his endeavors is being shown by Our members have been doing like the progress Theta now enjoys, and by work with our membership thruout the the earnestness and devotion with which country, viz., taking a leading place in the the brothers have undertaken their work, work of the community for the propagaln lime, nineteen hundred seventeen, tion of the forces of light.

Theta will be represented by graduates \ T c x t meeting night we are. to initiatefmni three different schools: Brothers Rev. G. L. Davis, Pastor of Shiloh BapCooper and Lewis of Rush Medical tist Church, one of the largest congreSchool, Brothers Norwood and Sykes of gations in the city, and Doctor R. A. the University of Illinois Medical School Johnston, into Honorary membership. and Macbeth from Northwestern Uni- That will give us a list of six Honorary versity Medical School. Like others members in the city, and we are proud who have gone before we know they will of them all as the echo rebounds from always keep aloft the spirit of Alpha Phi their works that they are "making good."

Alpha—upward and onward.

Kappa will stage a debate with Xi HENRY M. TRAMMEL. Chapter of Wilberforce, in the near fu-

THE SPE ture. Five of our members graduate this year. They are, Brother John A. Bailey, «in Dentistry, Brothers Beckham and Ferguson, receive the degree of Master of Arts, and Brother Hopkins, B. A , Dean Mohr, Ph. C. Kappa announces the marriage of Brother William O. Colwell and Miss Margaret Williams in January last.

Brother F. Walton Wand is the proud father of a fine son. Brother L. P. Henderson, '16, has received an appointment as assistant in the Probate Courts office.

Brother G. A. Mundy, '16, is in Winnipeg, Canada.

Brothers Thompson, Johnson, Ferguson and Hopkins are preparing to make a social survey of the Negroes of the city of Columbus.

Brothers Dunbar and Johnson are two of the principal soloists of St. Phillips Episcopal choir, of which Brother Leroy H . Godman, Honorary (Kappa) is director.

Brother Charles R. Lewis, Med. '16, is practicing in Akron, Ohio.

Brother Louis M, Weaver, Med. '14, is practicing in Ironton, Ohio.

Brother H. H. L. Dickason, '14, General President, 'i4-'i5, was in the city last month.

Kappa wishes all of the Chapters continued success, and prosperity in the efforts attempted for this year.

WAYNE

L.

HOPKINS.

NU CHAPTER Lincoln University Each strong and valiant member of Nu returned after the strenuous vacation, imbued with the greater fraternal spirit. Several contributing causes may

23

be mentioned to account for this renewed spirit. Many of us, for the first time, came in contact with brethren from other Chapters, whose fraternal activity, from the mere fact of location, assumed a more tangible form than ours.

Others, exaggerating greatly the importance of our Chapter, were in one manner or another, made conscious of the broader scope of the General Organization ; and, realized as never before our true significance, or in a broader sense, our insignificance. So all returned, determined to approach more* nearly our ideal, which finds its highest and most complete expression in Alpha Phi Alpha.

Especially fortunate are we in falling heir to the famous "Lincoln Spirit," that unquenchable, indomitable, ever vigorous spirit of cameraderie, of true friendship, which characterizes every loyal son of the Orange and Blue. Developed to a high degree in the entire student body, it finds its highest expression in our.Chapter.

Coupling this heritag-e with another equally as sacred and as noble, one that was also handed down by our "fathers'" in the dear old days beyond recall—the spirit of true fraternalism, the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha, we find ourselves working together as one happy family, with but one goal in view,—the attainment of our high ideals. In this wise do we expect to realize the fuller sense of fraternalism, and to represent it both here and in the broader field of life.

This year we have attempted a closer affiliation with our sister Chapters.

Strikingly true is this in our relations with Rho, both for this year and the next, as our joint coup d'etat in securing the General Convention for the next session will testify. In so doing, a closer bond of fraternalism has been inculcated between the Chapters, a deep-

24

THE SPHINX

er sense of the obligation of one chapter to the other, and the mutual benefit to be derived therefrom has been realized; and, above all, a higher and fuller conception of the responsibility of our own chapter has been made clearer than ever before. .Most of us spend our vacation in the North, and altho we find the facilities for education very good, learn that but a small per cent, of the youth take advantage of the same. It is in the interest of those who fail or neglect to take advantage o^ their opportunities that we labor. Thus do we, tho opposed from within by the ruling powers, and warily regarded from without as a group of semi-erudite culture propagandists, still continue to push forward, and trust that by the time internal mistrust and external doubt shall have been removed, we shall have accomplished some little good, and shall have in some small manner aided in the solution of this our great race problem.

We fully realize that our results must necessarily be insignificant, if we labor alone. So may we not express the fervent hope that this great cause may be of general interest? Then education, culture, brotherhood, and friendship, of •which Alpha Phi Alpha is the complete and harmonious epitome, will become the equal heritage of all.

HAROLD BROWN.

Lincoln, Pa.

OMICRON CHAPTER University of Pittsburgh The University of Pittsburgh is the scat of Omicron Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Omicron was organized in 1913. Her first officers

were: President, Richard M'. Fowler; Vice-President, William Robert Small; Secertary, Wray ML Banks; Tteasurer, A. D. Stevenson. These men are the pioneers in fraternalism among colored college men in this part of the country.

Omicron has always labored against great difficulty. The same difficulty is experienced by any Negro Fraternity in a large white university and is simply this—on account of the small number of colored students there is little material from which to draw; but despite this handicap, Omicron has been able to remain active and has accomplished some tilings worth while.

The outlook this year is very encouraging for there are now enrolled in the university, thirty-five colored men. This is the largest number that has ever been enrolled here at any one time. I might add in passing that there are six young women enrolled making a total of fortyone colored students.

Omicron although a very young Chapter entertained the Eighth Annual Convention of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in December, 1915. This was a renaissance in the life of the Chapter. Since that time Omicron has had a broader and deeper conception of what Alpha Phi Alpha means.

This bids fair to be the best year in the history of Omicron. Among the new students are some who appear to be good material for Alpha Phi Alpha. The present members are taking a more active interest in the affairs of the Chapter.

Omicron should soon be among the leading Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Brother A. D. Stevenson, B. S., our worthy President and prospective attorney, keeps very busy conversing with Coke and Blackstone.

Brother T. E. Barton, our Vice, is majoring in psychology and making a creditable record.

THE SPHINX Brother W. R Brown, Jr., our emcient Secretary, is making good in his medical course.

Brother Florence, our Correspondent is a junior in the School of Education.

Brother Otto V. Green is still plodding away in the School of Chemistry.

Brother Wilbur C. Douglass is junior in the College and next year expects to be initiated into the mysteries of Jurisprudence. He also holds a position in the General Post Office.

Brother James M. Burwell is senior in the School of Dentistry.

Brother William J. Curtis is a junior in the School of Engineering and so far has maintained a high standard of scholarship.

Brother John H. Eckles, B. S. is junior in the School of Medicine.

Brother Leo L. Williams will graduate in Pharmacy this year. During this Winter he has been employed in the Relief Department of -the Westingh'ouse Electric Company.

Brother Rayner G. Browne is now a sophomore in the College.

C. W. FLORENCE.

XI CHAPTER Wilberforce University "The barracks! The barracks!" Cried the peevish little General who excitedly rode into one of his veteran camps, which he took to be in tumultuous disorder at a time when martial and spiritual rigor, and lust for battle was most needed. The men heard; they ceased their riotous gaiety, but they moved not in response to the command to charge.

"What," thundered the little mass of zeal, kindled by a hundred battlefields,

25

turning to the Adjutant in charge, "Will you disobey your superior and rebel when the capture of the enemy's stronghold is so essential?'' "Sir," replied the Adjutant with a smile, "the enemy's barracks were taken a fortnight ago and the men are still celebrating the occasion and renewing their energies for greater victories. Sir, we are patriotic, we are loyal. Never would we defile nature by breathing again her pure life-giving fluid could we not boast of victories won rather than gloat over our canteens and dream of triumphs to come."

Brethren, this is the message of "Xi." Though to one entering and concluding hastily we are as "sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal, or anti-pledgers; we are to him who questions concerning Ihe attitude and condition of Wilberforce, or delves into its social and scholarly status, the probably unseen, but ever-guiding spirit. Let him seek to know by what means the true vein of college life revealed itself in this community; or how the university has so wonderfully raised its standard; why so much burning of oil and devouring of knowledge; why this high regard for all that is noble and elevating in the divinely designed helpmate of man; and why the scores of prepared, industrious Wilberforce graduates of the past six years, who invigorated by the very atmosphere of Wilberforce, have gone into the fields of labor breathing new life into oppressed and despairing brethren.

Gentlemen, the answer to these and countless similar interrogations comes in tones loud and tremendous, yet melodious and soothing, "These are the fruits of Alpha Phi Alpha labors."

Since 1912 when Brothers A. L. Foster, C. C. Clark, E. A. Taylor, H. W. Price, A. O. Mitchell, J. W. Moore, C. E. Birch, J. B. McClellan and E. A. Wilson went

26

THE SPHINX

forth as the "resolute and undaunted nine" to capture the "Phi" charter for Wilberforce, the entire scenery as well as the students seem to have metamorphized to the extent of striving to reveal on every hand the best elements.

No less impressive and effective have been the principles of Alpha Phi Alpha on the community residents. By her deft and never failing touch "Xi" has given the community a new and more lofty vision of what college life means to a people hard pressed by the iron hands of prejudice and social distinction.

And she glories to remonstrate in defense of herself as did the Adjutant, these are deeds actually done and not seen in the wild fancies of a dream.

We know that if "Xi" can almost miraculously revolutionize its little world, united Alpha Phi Alpha can magically banish seemingly unsurmountable obstacles and contribute immensely towards leavening the whole social and intellectual lump.

With thanks to whom thanks are due we are proud to state that the following noble hearts have recruited with us since September of 1916: Russell Smith, Douglas Reid, Claude Nichols, Robert Lynon, Fred Smith, Peter Williams, Edward Pool, David Barrow, Fay West, David Vines, Lendell Ridley and Cutaway Morris. This addition makes us twenty-one strong. There is not a weak link in the chain; every one is a gem, tried by fire and found unalloyed,—the cream of the campus.

Like those commanded to charge we may seem unprofitably engaged at present, but if such be true we venture that it is only for a brief season of perfecting of plans and renewal of energies, after which like the blind Samson we shall move from what some call slumber, our canteens thrown aside we shall pluck up the gates of inactivity and in the name

of united Alpha Phi Alpha her royal banner shall be unfurled on heights never before scaled by dark explorers.

LENDELL C. RIDLEY,

Wilberforce, O .

RHO CHAPTER University of Pennsylvania Rho sends greeting and is proud to contribute to the first "Public Issue" of The Sphinx.

We congratulate the brothers, who met in Richmond and made it possible for one number of our official organ to be given to the Public. This issue should do much to bring those, who are interested in the advancement and progress of our race, into a more intimate relationship with Alpha Phi Alpha and the ideals it represents.

We feel, that for the friends to fully appreciate Alpha Phi Alpha, its aims, ideals and struggles, they must have a comprehensive view of the successes of each individual Chapter. For this reason we wish to recall something of the Rho Chapter, its origin and subsequent history.

Rho is one of Alpha Phi Alpha's infant Chapters. We are not yet three years old. On November 3, 1914 the Chapter was organized and to nine chapter members were unfolded the mysteries and secrets of Alpha Phi Alpha,

by Brother Kursey L. Curd, of Alpha and Brothers Pelham and Taylor, of Nu. These Brothers, led on by the guiding spirit of Brother Curd, our first President, worked faithfully thruout the year besides working out a constitution, bylaws and directing attention towards the members' welfare along scholastic lines, several social affairs were given, including a banquet, a dance and reception.

THE S PHINX Diversity of interests has always been the guiding spirit of Rho and this year's work, is in no wise different from the past, except in that we have taken on larger burdens and our duties to the Body National have become increased.

Rho has three great goals to gain; we must have our Fraternity House, where we can work together, live together and become more united in our efforts as brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Every member of this Chapter realizes just what this means and already our House Committee has a tangible basis to work on, in the form of a Fund subscribed by the brothers for the beginning and maintenance of such a Home.

We expect to be comfortably situated in our Fraternity House by the beginning of the Fall term.

Secondly it's Rho's desire to increase its work for good, not only among the students of Philadelphia but among all the people of color. Series of lectures and public meetings have been planned for this purpose while individually every Alpha Phi Alpha man at Rho is doing in his own way, much for the benefit of the less fortunate of his race.

WM.

BEVERLY CARTER, M.

D.

Philadelphia, Pa.

27

they brought to us from you we have concluded that no fraternal organization, no matter what its purpose may be, is living up to its highest possibilities if it fails to endeavor to mould a moral and social sentiment among its members.

Realizing the virtue of this the Sigma Chapter has been endeavoring thru discussions to carry this out. Our delegates to the Ninth Convention were instructed to recommend this to the General Organization as a plan of crystallizing the proper racial and social consciousness, so that the members as they go to their several communities might serve as leaven working towards one good and with one ideal in mind. In accordance therewith we have had discussions on the "Migration of the Negroes" and "The Negroes' Attitude Towards Enlistment."

A gist of the discussion by some of the Brothers is given elsewhere.

J. E. MITCHELL,

Boston, Mass.

Brother Ernie Jackson is the proud Captain of the Owls, Cleveland's great basketball team.

SIGMA CHAPTER

STEPHEN U K FOLGER

Harvard Univ., Boston Univ., Tufts College, Mass. Tech.

OFFICIAL JEWELER

Our delegates, Brothers Crampton and Tavernier, brought to us from the general convention a very good and favorable report, which has given to the members of the chapter additional vigor and inspiration. And from the ideas and sentiments which we voiced thru these delegates and from the exhortations which

TO

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY 160 B R O A D W A Y , N E W Y O R K Club and College Pins and Rings

28

THE SPHINX PERSONALS

versity of Pittsburgh, has won real distinction for himself and Omicron Chapter as leader of the University DebatingTeam for 1916 and 1917. He won the silver and the gold medals of distinction for his Freshman and Sophomore work and is anticipating victories over Pennsylvania State, George Washington and Georgetown Universities this year.

Brother Vertner W. Tandy, one of the "Original Seven," is Architect for Mme. C. J. Walker's one hundred thousand dollar villa at Irvington-on-the-Hudson.

He also enjoys the distinction of First Lieutenant in the Fifteenth Infantry, N. Y. National Guard, being the first Negro to pass the examination and receive a commission in New York State.

Zeta is particularly pleased to learn of the engagement of Brother Thomas Taylor of the Bordentown, N. J. Manual Training and Industrial School to Miss Lottie Griffin, of Washington, D. C , now teaching in Atlantic City. Also that of Brother John McLinn Ross, of New Haven, Conn, to Miss Ruth Dailey, formerly of Boston, Mass., but now a resident of this city. Both Brothers are sons of Zeta.

Brother J. T. Clark, Kappa Alumnus, and Secretary of the Vocational Bureau of the National Urban League of New York, announces his marriage to Miss Patricia Ferguson, of Detroit, Michigan, on Monday, Mlarch 26, 1917. Mrs. Clark is at present a "fellow" of the National Urban League, studying at the New York School of Philanthrophy.

Brother and Mrs. Clark are at home at 187 West 135th Street.

Brother Davidson has been making excellent showings on the Harvard wrestling team this season. He has not only been proclaimed Harvard's brightest prospects in the coming intercollegiate, but also the best Eastern wrestler of the 125-pound weight class.

Brother Hill, of Nu was a member of the Affirmative Debating Team to meet Virginia Union, and Brother Creditt was a member of the Negative Debating Team to meet Wilberforce.

Among Pi's graduates this year will be C. E. Cheeks, Dental School, W. R. U.; S. Glenn, Cleveland Law School.

Brother K. C. Manning, Alumnus of Gamma, announces his engagement to Miss Lucy M. Johnson, of Kinsdale, Va. Brother J. M. Ellison, active of Gamma announces his engagement to Miss M. C. McWilliams, of Centralia, Va. Brother John Thomas Anderson, A. B. has been appointed Resident Physician at Kansas City General Hospital.

Brother Wesley C. Redd, A. B. will become one of the house physicians at Lakeside Hospital. Cleveland, Ohio, next June.

Brother C. A. Lewis, A. B. M. D. is one of the leading factors in the TriState Medical Association, which convenes in Philadelphia, Pa., in July, 1917.

Brother R. L . Curd, V . M . , took the competitive examination for interneship at Philadelphia General Hospital and passed with great credit to himself and Alpha Phi Alpha.

Brother Leonidas Cregman, A . B . , D. D. S., of Atlanta, Ga., writes Rho that Brother A. A. Taylor, Epsilon Alumhe is having great success in his chosen nus announces his engagement to Miss field in Atlanta and states that there are Harriet E. Wilson, of Ann Arbor, Micha number of Alpha Phi Alpha men in igan. Miss Wilson is at present a senior that city. Georgia will soon boast of an at the University of Michigan and presAlumni Chapter. ident of the local chapter of the Alpha Brother C. W. Florence, of the Uni- Kappa Alpha Sorority.