1872
The Singing Fraternity “Gemma Nostra” For the first 50 years (or so) of Beta’s life, nearly every Beta had a working knowledge of Latin and Greek, and they would have laughed at the need for this section. However, too many brothers in recent times have taken Lozier’s words far too seriously: “The only Greek you have to know is Beta Theta Pi.” But in 1871, Joseph H. Tunison, Denison 1873, had such a fluency with Latin, he could even write good poetry in it. When “Gemma Nostra” appeared in the songbook of 1872, every Beta knew what Tunison was saying. But for maybe the last 50 years, most Betas went around singing Tunison’s Latin poem without really knowing what it means.
the suggestion that he provide a LITERAL TRANSLATION translation of “Gemma Nostra.” Dr. Henry C. Montgomery, Phi Delta Theta: He supplied both a literal I. Let our jewel shine, never obscured translation and an English version And let Sertus bind (us), always with affection. which can be sung to the same Chorus – Hail, Beta Theta Pi, thou pure queen; tune. These appeared in the January Dear thou (art) to my heart, dear, dear, care. 1977 issue of The Beta Theta Pi, II. Let each star flash, all are equal; Now let those attend who will together with excerpts from a letter – among us, comrades. by Dolibois, in which he noted III. Among brothers, truth, honor, friendship; that Dr. Montgomery is “an faith, valor, right (i.e. among men) and right outstanding fraternity man, (divine) all are known. and is particularly pleased with [his] little contribution.” ENGLISH VERSION to the same melody, also by Dr. Montgomery: I. Let our jewel brightly shine, never may it lose its gleam. And may Sertus us entwine, ever with a high esteem. Chorus – Hail thou, Beta Theta Pi, queen without compare; Dear thou art unto my heart, thou my constant care. II. Let each star in brilliance flash, equal are we all. Whosoever comrades are, gathered in this hall.
In 1942, John E. Dolibois, Miami ’42, did something about it. He approached the chairman of Miami’s Classics Department, Dr. Henry C. Montgomery (a member of Phi Delta Theta), with
III. Friendship, honor, truth are known, ever to the brothers; Valor, faith, and love of God; justice to all others.
Beta Brotherhood | page 40